60 & Better | December 2015

MISSION: To create opportunities that allow older residents of Douglas County to remain independent and active in their homes and communities.

December 2015 Volume 42 No. 12

INSIDE

VISIT US AT WWW.DGCOSENIORSERVICES.ORG

THANKS TO CANS FOR THE COMMUNITY for their recent donation to Douglas County Senior Services!

Savvy Senior ��������������������������������� PG 4

Leisure and Learning Catalog ������ PG 6 Calendar�������������������������������������� PG 12

Legalese ��������������������������������������� PG 13

INTERGENERATIONAL

CHOIR CONCERT DEC. 4TH

Please join us as the DCSS Intergenerational Choir presents their winter concert December 4 at the Lawrence Senior Center. The performance begins at 6:30 p.m. Refreshments will be served afterwards. Everyone is welcome!

IMPORTANT EVENTS THIS MONTH Welcome to Medicare Meeting Dec. 9, Noon to 1pm, Lawrence Senior Center Kansas Commission on Veterans’ Affairs Discussion on programs for low-income veterans.

Dec. 16, 1-2pm, Lawrence Senior Center Free Blood Pressure Checks

by Midland Care Connection Dec. 14, 11am - Noon, Lawrence Senior Center

Cans for the Community was formed in May of 2005 in Lawrence, Kansas with the belief that the simple act of recycling aluminum cans could benefit our community in more than one way. Aluminum can recycling saves valuable resources, energy, time and money, AND it generates funds for our community.

Cans for the Community volunteers collect aluminum cans for recycling from businesses, apartment complexes, community recycling drop-off bins, and at local events such as KU football games. All proceeds from recycling are donated to local non-profit Cans for the Community Board organizations.

Members, Linda Klinker (L) and Denise Aluminum can recycling bins are distributed to Porter (R), presented a check for $1,000 to participating businesses in Douglas County. Volunteers DCSS Executive Director Gary Nelson. service these bins regularly. There are also eight aluminum can recycling drop-off bins for households and smaller businesses located throughout the city. A list of locations is available on the Cans for the Community website: www.cansforthecommunity.org.

CHAMPSS MEALS PROGRAM COMING TO BALDWIN CITY The Choosing Healthy Appetizing Meals Plan Solutions for Seniors (CHAMPSS) program is coming to Baldwin City in January. Baldwin City seniors can sign up for the program at one of the following orientation events scheduled this month at the Baldwin City Public Library, 800 7th Street: - 10 A.M. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11 - 2 P.M. TUESDAY, DECEMBER 15 CHAMPSS offers seniors age 60 and over choices of what they eat, where they eat and when they eat. Come join the growing number of seniors who enjoy the flexibility of dining options that accommodate their active lifestyles. A registered CHAMPSS member can obtain a CHAMPSS meal at participating locations simply by swiping their CHAMPSS card.

Menus are approved by a registered dietitian.

To learn more about the program and/or register, contact Jayhawk Area Agency on Aging: 785-235-1367; 800-798-1366; TDD/TTY 800-776-3777; jhawkaaa.org.

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A Message from the Executive Director

By Gary Nelson

I am very pleased to have been selected as the Executive Director at Douglas County Senior Services. DCSS has a long history of providing services to Douglas County senior residents. My goal is that we can continue to provide our current services, continue to look for other services needed by our residents and move forward with the ReINVENT Retirement initiative.

In my short time as Executive Director at Douglas County Senior Services, four things have become clear to

me. We have a dedicated staff, a knowledgeable Board of Directors, a large number of volunteers that give their time, and many people that have provided financial support for our efforts over the years in providing services to seniors in Douglas County. With this base of support to work from, I believe DCSS will be able to maintain our current services, add other needed services, and hopefully grow to become a model for other cities and counties throughout the nation.

I would like to thank all of the volunteers at Douglas County Senior Services, those who are currently volunteering and those who have volunteered in past years. Many of the services we provide could not be accomplished without your help. We are truly thankful for the time that you give

and have given. Those who have volunteered know how much the seniors they serve appreciate it.

I said above, the recipients of our services are very appreciative of the services they receive.

For those of you who have not had a chance to volunteer, we always have a need to be filled. If you would like to volunteer or find out how you can get involved at DCSS, I would encourage you to call 785-842-0543. Let the receptionist know you are interested in volunteering and they will direct your call to someone that can assist you.

We are in the process of beginning our year-end fundraising campaign so many of you will be hearing from us asking for your financial support. If you don’t receive a fundraising letter from DCSS, this month we are also starting to provide 60 & Better readers with an opportunity to donate to DCSS. Each month there will be a reminder for readers that they can donate to DCSS.

I would also like to take time to thank those who have provided financial support to Douglas County Senior Services this year and in past years. You don’t know how much we appreciate your donations. Those donations are turned into services for Douglas County seniors. As

Again, I would like to thank everyone that has supported Douglas County Senior Services over the years. We truly appreciate your donations of time and/or money, because many provide both.

Have a great holiday season.

Douglas County Senior Services is a nonprofit organization that provides much needed services to area seniors. We depend upon donations from people like you to keep our mission alive. Won’t you please consider a gift to DCSS? Name ______________________________________________________________________________ Address _____________________________________________________________________________ Phone ______________________________________________________________________________ Donation Amount___________________Email (optional) ______________________________________ Mail your tax deductible contribution to: Douglas County Senior Services, 745 Vermont St., Lawrence, KS 66044.

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THE BIRDS OF PANDEMONIUM: LIFE AMONG THE EXOTIC AND THE ENDANGERED

By Michele Raffin Reviewed by Barbara Watkins When I began to read The Birds of Pandemonium (Algonquin Books of Chapel Hill, 2014), I did something I rarely do: looked at the photos before I read the text. I was enthralled by the 16 pages of color photos of stunningly beautiful, exotic birds - all new to me. The story of these birds is equally enticing. As Michelle Raffin, the author, asserts, “Our birds are gorgeous. But that’s not why I’ve fallen for them so hard and so deeply. I’ve learned that their behavior is far more fascinating than their plumage.”

Raffin, a former Silicon Valley venture capital consultant, is the founder of Pandemonium (http://www. pandemoniumaviaries.org/).

She is a certified aviculturist and consultant for zoos and breeders. Pandemonium Aviaries in Los Altos, California, is a nonprofit bird sanctuary “focused on saving bird species from extinction through conservation and education.” It is now home to more than 300 birds belonging to more than 40 species in 34 large aviaries.

For Raffin, Taking care of some of the rare birds involves a “scary amount of guesswork.”

The birds are her teachers.

Their stories show us how “birds fall in love, mourn, rejoice, and sacrifice; they have a sense of humor, invent, plot, and cope.” She asserts that “[h] uman understanding of their emotional needs is inadequate at best.”

Some of their birds are in far more peril than others. Victoria crowned pigeons, which are native to New Guinea and are the largest pigeon species, and several other close relatives are Pandemonium’s primary breeding focus because of the destruction of New Guinea’s huge rain forest, which is being cleared for plantations that produce palm oil.

One of Raffin’s most amazing and endearing stories is about a cortunix Japanese quail that was found by a grocery clerk in a small paper bag on top of a pile of celery - probably forgotten by a shopper who had been looking for some onions to sauté with the bird. The quail was taken to the local humane society’s wildlife rehabilitation center, which mistakenly classified it as “wildlife” instead of “farm animal” (these quail are raised commercially for their delicate flesh and eggs), and this error saved its life again. After several months there - since wild animals can’t

be adopted - the quail ended up with Michelle, who volunteered at the facility.

She had no experience with quail, but this one taught her a lot. She “called him Sweetie because he was just that.” He showed her what to feed him - mealworms - and gave her important lessons in the many ways birds can communicate with humans and the need for consistency in the use of body language. Sweetie taught her “the rudiments of how to speak bird.”

She began to use “the same principles - observation, consistency, and attention to detail - to try to communicate with other birds.” If she was patient and alert, birds would let her know what they wanted.

Consistency is vital in the use of body language. “Any thought or desire had to be represented by one sound, one gesture - with just one meaning.”

As Raffin learned how to communicate better with her birds, “a whole new dimension” in her relationship with them opened.

She made another interesting discovery when Harli, one of the pair of loving and devoted lorikeets that she had had for seven years, died. She was surprised to learn that both of

BOOK review

them were male. They were indeed a “contented samesex couple,” which isn’t “unprecedented” in birds.

She would have to find a gay lorikeet to replace Harli.

At the end of the book, Raffin describes giving a TED talk. Since these talks are all posted on the Internet, she was speaking to the whole world.

She had come a long way since rescuing an injured dove on a local highway in 1996. She compared her experiences rescuing birds to Noah’s ark.

Her backyard had become an ark. Now, since once-common birds are becoming extinct in the wild, her vision is to create little arks around the country under the umbrella Avian Recovery for Conservation in several new locations. As Emily Dickinson wrote in her famous poem 150 years ago: Hope is the thing with feathers That perches in the soul And sings the tune with the words And never stops - at all -

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Understanding Reverse Mortgages: Beware of Misleading Ads Dear Savvy Senior, Can you give us a rundown of how reverse mortgages work? I’ve see actors Fred Thompson and Henry Winkler pitching them on TV, and they sound like a good deal. What can you tell me?

Need the Money Dear Need, When it comes to celebrity spokespeople pitching reverse mortgages on TV, don’t believe everything you hear. Many of these ads are misleading and don’t always give you the whole story. In fact, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau recently issued a warning to seniors to watch out for these deceptive advertisements. With that said, here’s the lowdown on reverse mortgages.

The Basics A reverse mortgage is a unique type of loan that allows older homeowners to borrow money against the equity in their house that doesn’t have to be repaid until the homeowner dies, sells the house or moves out for at least 12 months. At that point, you or your heirs will have to pay back the loan plus accrued interest and fees, but you will never owe more than the value

of the house.

It’s also important to understand that with a reverse mortgage, you, not the bank, own the house, so you’re still required to pay your property taxes and homeowners insurance.

Not paying them can result in foreclosure.

To be eligible, you must be at least 62 years old, own your own home (or owe only a small balance) and currently be living there.

You will also need to undergo a financial assessment to determine whether you can afford to continue paying your property taxes and insurance.

Depending on your financial situation, you may be required to put part of your loan into an escrow account to pay future bills. If the financial assessment finds that you cannot pay your insurance and taxes and have enough cash left to live on, you’ll be denied.

Loan Details Around 95 percent of all reverse mortgages offered today are Home Equity Conversion Mortgages (HECM), which are FHA insured and offered through private mortgage lenders and banks. HECM’s

also have home value limits that vary by county, but cannot exceed $625,500.

How much you can actually get through a reverse mortgage depends on your age, your home’s value and the prevailing interest rates. Generally, the older you are, the more your house is worth, and the lower the interest rates are, the more you can borrow. A 70-yearold, for example, with a home worth $250,000 could borrow around $136,000 with a fixedrate HECM. To estimate how much you can borrow, use the reverse mortgage calculator at reversemortgage.org.

You also need to know that reverse mortgages are expensive with a number of fees, including: a 2 percent lender origination fee for the first $200,000 of the home’s value and 1 percent of the remaining value, with a cap of $6,000; a 0.5 percent upfront mortgage insurance premium (MIP) fee, plus an annual MIP fee that’s equal to 1.25 percent of the outstanding loan balance; along with an appraisal fee, closing costs and other miscellaneous expenses. Most fees can be deducted for the loan amount to reduce your outof-pocket cost at closing.

To receive your money, you can opt for a lump sum, a line of credit, regular monthly checks or a combination of these.

But in most cases, you cannot withdraw more than 60 percent of the loan during the first year.

If you do, your upfront MIP fee will be bumped up to 2.5 percent.

Get Educated To learn more, read the National Council on Aging’s online booklet “Use Your Home to Stay at Home,” which you can download at homeequityadvisor.org.

Also note that because reverse mortgages are complex loans, all borrowers are required to get face-to-face or telephone counseling through a HUD approved independent counseling agency before taking one out. Most agencies charge around $125 to $250.

To locate one near you, visit go.usa.gov/v2H, or call 800-569-4287.

(Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.)

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No-Knead Rustic Bread with Fruit and Nuts from The AICR Test Kitchen Ahh, the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread. Even with busy, busy schedules, making artisanal bread from scratch IS possible.

This rustic bread is bursting with fiber from phytonutrient-rich dried fruit, nuts and whole-wheat flour.

Delicious eaten warm from the oven, smeared with a favorite spread or as French toast, this no-knead bread surely will become a staple. It’s also preservative-free and costs a whole lot less than breads made by artisans.

This bread dough requires just 15 to 20 minutes to prepare and 8 to 24 hours to rise. With a little forethought, you can enjoy homemade bread later the same day or the next. For same day bread, mix dough early in the morning, let rise all day, fold for second rise in afternoon, bake before dinner and enjoy with dinner. Voila! You’ll have plenty for breakfast, too. For next day bread, make dough and let it rise overnight. The next day, fold dough for second rise and bake when convenient. Yeast develops flavor and texture while you go on your merry way or as you sleep.

This recipe is flexible and forgiving - you don’t have to fret about the dough being perfect or punctual timing. And the mix-in possibilities are endless - olives, seeds (pumpkin, flax, poppy, sunflower, sesame), herbs (rosemary, chives, caraway, dill) and yes, even dark chocolate.

Many no-knead recipes use preheated baking crocks with lids. Our recipe doesn’t. We use a parchmentlined baking sheet to prevent sticking, a water bath to create steam for a crunchy crust and a kitchen

thermometer to guarantee a perfect crumb at 205 degrees F. NO-KNEAD RUSTIC BREAD WITH FRUIT AND NUTS • 2 1/4 cups white whole-wheat flour or whole-wheat flour • 2 cups all-purpose flour • 1 cup dried fruit (dried cranberries, raisins, currants, cherries, chopped apricots, chopped dates) • 1 cup coarsely chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, almonds, pistachios) • 1 Tbsp. cinnamon, optional • 2 tsp salt • 1/2 tsp instant/rapid rise yeast (not active) • 1/4 cup honey • 1 3/4 - 2 cups water, plus º cup In large mixing bowl, stir all ingredients together until sticky dough forms, about 30 seconds. If dough is not sticky to touch, add water in 1-tablespoon increments.

Dough should be somewhat tacky when touched and loose, known as being shaggy.

Cover bowl with plastic wrap and let dough sit at room temperature (about 70 degrees F) in draft free spot anywhere from 8 to 24 hours.

After first rise, dough surface will be dotted with bubbles and dough will have doubled in size.

Line baking pan with parchment paper or grease pan with oil. Using your hands, gently fold in sides toward center, like closing box top flaps. Shape dough into a round loaf, similar to a French boule. Dough should feel tight and not completely spring back when poked. Lift dough

from bowl in one piece and place seam side down on baking pan.

Cover dough with a dishtowel and let sit 2 hours. After second rise, dough will be puffy.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Place top baking rack in middle of oven and bottom rack on lowest level. In casserole dish add 1 cup hot water and place on bottom rack for steam while baking.

Bake bread 55-70 minutes. Insert cooking thermometer in thickest part of loaf. Bread is done when thermometer reads 205 degrees F. If not using thermometer, tap bread with finger. If bread sounds hollow, it is done.

Place bread on cooling rack. Let cool for easier slicing.

To store, wrap cooled bread in plastic or place in plastic bag for a few days.

Bread may be sliced and frozen for quick toasting later or made into French toast.

Makes 1 (9-inch x 3-inch) boule, 22 servings.

Per serving: 149 calories, 4 g total fat (<1 g saturated fat), 27 g carbohydrate, 4 g protein, 2.5 g dietary fiber, 214 mg sodium.

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Leisure and Learning Catalog - Course Description Douglas County Senior Services offers a variety of programs for active Douglas County residents age 55 and over. In our catalog you will also see some Lawrence Parks and Recreation classes, and trips offered by Group Getaways.

PLEASE NOTE THE ENROLLMENT AND PAYMENT INFORMATION BELOW* FOR THE PROGRAM(S) FOR WHICH YOU WISH TO REGISTER. To register for a DCSS activity, fill out the class registration form

Leisure and Learning CataLog

in this newsletter and mail it with your check (payable to DCSS) to: Douglas County Senior Services, Leisure and Learning Department, 745 Vermont St., Lawrence, KS 66044. Walk-ins are welcome. For information call 785-842-0543. â&#x20AC;˘ To register for a Lawrence Parks and Recreation activity, go to the Community Building, 115 W. 11th St., 832-7920 or register online at www.lprd.org. â&#x20AC;˘ To register for a Group Getaways trip, contact Darla Bass at 785-215-8875 or email: mygroupgetaways@gmail.com.

More trip information available at http://www.mygroupgetaways. net.

DCSS refund/credit policy (applies to DCSS classes and events only): A full refund or credit will be given for all DCSS classes, events or trips 30 days prior to the class or event, except event tickets that are bought in advance and are non-refundable. Less than 30 days prior, refunds will be given for medical hardships, approved emergencies, and events canceled or rescheduled by the department. A 10 percent administrative charge will be deducted from refunds for cancellations less than one week in advance.

Partial class scholarships may be available for seniors who qualify. Scholarships will be considered upon completion of application in the Leisure and Learning office.

Reasonable accommodations can be made for special needs.

Registrant must specify needs and provide information at time of enrollment.

HEALTH & FITNESS Yoga for Every Body (Douglas County Senior Services) Tuesdays, January 5 - February 23, 3-4 p.m. Fee: $28.

Location: Lawrence Senior Center. Instructor: Susan Rieger.

This gentle yoga class encourages freedom in all the joints, increases core and leg strength, improves balance, and leaves the participant feeling mentally and physically relaxed and restored. Previous

participants report feeling stronger, having more energy, and sleeping better. Please bring a yoga mat and wear clothes which allow you to move easily.

A.M. Walking Club (Lawrence Parks and Recreation) Walking indoors is a chance to exercise in any weather, get your heart pumping and build friendships with other walkers. The public is welcome to walk in the gymnasiums at East Lawrence Recreation Center (7-10 a.m.) and Holcom Park Recreation Center (711 a.m.), Monday through Friday. Walkers should plan to accommodate scheduled programming. For more information, contact the Recreation Center, 832-7950.

Lifelong Meditate and Breathe (Lawrence Parks and Recreation) Mondays, January 11 February 29, 9:30-10:45 a.m.

Fee: $33 Location: Carnegie Building Find peace and stillness within yourself. We will explore restorative yoga postures, yogic breathing techniques, sutra meditation, mantra meditation, guided meditation and yogic and Buddhist philosophy as tools for disciplining the mind, reducing stress and anxiety, and feeling great. Instructor: Kristen Spencer. Register at www.lprd.org or any Lawrence Recreation Center

Pickleball - Open Play (Lawrence Parks and Recreation) Monday-Friday at East Lawrence Center and Sports Pavilion Lawrence. For competitive, recreational and beginning players.

Call Gayle at the Community Building, 832-7920, for specific days and times. There is no charge for open play.

Personal Training (Lawrence Parks and Recreation) Need help reaching your fitness goals? Lawrence Parks and Recreation has certified personal trainers to help you make your workouts safe, productive

Leisure and Learning CataLog

and successful. Training and registration are available at all recreation centers. For more information, contact Gayle Sigurdson at 832-7920.

Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program (Lawrence Parks and Recreation and DCSS) Tuesdays and Thursdays, January 5 - March 3, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Fee: $58 Location: Lawrence Sports Pavilion.

This community based exercise program is designed specifically for people with arthritis and related diseases, but open to anyone. The programâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s multiple components help reduce pain and stiffness and help maintain or improve mobility,

muscle strength and functional ability. The variety of exercises are designed for people of all levels of ability. Instructor is certified by the Arthritis Foundation.

Class offered in partnership with Douglas County Senior Services.

Instructor: Rebecca Clancy.

Register at www.lprd.org or any Lawrence Recreation Center.

Senior Strength Training Tuesdays and Thursdays, January 5 - March 3, 9-10 a.m. Fee: $58 Location: East Lawrence Center.

Strength training for seniors is effective in improving balance (preventing falls), strengthening major muscle groups, and increasing muscle mass and bone

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density. The class is designed to include functional movement patterns that enhance daily living activities. A variety of strength training equipment will be used, including free weights, and resistance bands. Class includes a warm-up period and a post-workout stretch. NOTE: A physicianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s release is required prior to beginning of class. Instructor: Deb Geraghty. Register at www.lprd.org or any Lawrence Recreation Center.

Silver Steppers (Lawrence Parks and Recreation) Wednesdays, January 6 - March 2, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Fee: $36 Location: East Lawrence Center.

Continued on page 8

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Continued from page 7

Get ready to mix it up! This class is perfect for the stepper looking for something new.

Fun step combinations will torch calories and get your heart pumping. Instructor: Susan Pomeroy. Register at www.lprd.org or any Lawrence Recreation Center.

Silver N’ Fit (Lawrence Parks and Recreation) Tuesday/Thursday, January 7 March 3, 8:30-9:20 a.m. Fee: $48 Location: Sports Pavilion Lawrence.

In this class you will work with hand weights, stability ball, resistance bands and your own body weight. We’ll get you moving and grooving to the music you’re going to remember and love! Instructor: Kristen Spencer. Register at www.lprd.org or any Lawrence Recreation Center.

Pedal Pushers- Cycling Class (Lawrence Parks and Recreation) Fridays, January 8 - March 4, 11:15-noon. Fee: $41 Location: Community Building.

Indoor cycling increases endurance and strength in your lower body, core and upper body. This is a beginning class for older adults. Bikers can modify their cycling resistance and pace according to their own fitness level. Instructor: Melanie Johnson. Register at www.lprd.org or any Lawrence Recreation Center.

Leisure and Learning CataLog

Chair Exercise (Douglas County Senior Services) Wednesdays and Fridays (ongoing) 11-11:30 a.m. Fee: None. Location: Lawrence Senior Center.

Everyone can do this! Previous students are welcome to returnthere are always more stories to tell. Instructor: Iris Wilkinson.

Register at www.lprd.org or any Lawrence Recreation Center.

Now with patience and a few lessons, anyone can master the intricacies of this classic game.

Instructor: Pearl Neaves. Register at www.lprd.org or any Lawrence Recreation Center.

EDUCATION, HOBBY & FINANCE

Beginning Spanish (Douglas County Senior Services) Wednesdays, 1-2 p.m. (ongoing) Fee: None. Location: Lawrence Senior Center Board Room.

Instructor: Jim Bennett.

Bridge 1 (Lawrence Parks and Recreation) Wednesdays, January 6 February 10, 9-11 a.m. Fee: $40 Location: Indoor Aquatics Center.

AARP Smart Driver Course (Douglas County Senior Services) Thursday and Friday, January 14 & 15, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Fee: $15 for AARP Members, $20 for nonmembers. Location: Lawrence Senior Center.

Refresh your driving skills with the AARP Smart Driver Course. You will learn defensive driving techniques, proven safety strategies, and new traffic laws and rules of the road. Plus, there are no tests to pass; simply sign up and learn. Upon completion you could receive a multi-year discount on your car insurance.

Lunch from noon to 1 p.m. on your own. Limited spots available, please call 842-0543 to register.

Writing Our Family Stories Wednesdays, January 20 February 10, 6-8 p.m. Fee: $38 Location: Carnegie Building.

This course will provide guidance in collecting and writing your family stories. These stories help us stay in touch with who we are. Preserving these stories will help future generations know themselves better. We will use journaling methods and prompts to inspire your words.

This course will stress some of the basics of the Spanish language and useful words and phrase.

Bring your English to Spanish Dictionary.

Intermediate Spanish (Douglas County Senior Services) Mondays, 1-2 p.m. (ongoing) Fee: None. Location: Lawrence Senior Center Board Room. Instructor: Jim Bennett. Focus is on reading and conversation. Bring your English to Spanish Dictionary.

Math Club (Douglas County Senior Services) Mondays and Wednesdays, 2:30-3:30 p.m. (ongoing) Fee: None. Location: Lawrence Senior Center Board Room. Instructor: Saul Stahl. Come stretch your mind and enjoy lively discussion!

American Mah Jongg (Lawrence Parks and Recreation) Thursdays, February 4 - March 10, 7-9 p.m. Fee: $35 Location: Carnegie Building.

This fascinating rummy-like game was originally played solely by the Chinese ruling classes.

This course is designed for the first time player. Classes follow Audrey Grant’s “Club Series” which lays the groundwork of Standard American bidding and introduces the basics of Play of the Hand and Scoring. Lessons focus on discussion of pre-dealt hands which follow a step-bystep progression to facilitate learning the language of bidding.

Lessons are fun, friendly and interactive. Bring a friend and join the fun! Instructor: Don Brennaman. Register at www. lprd.org or any Lawrence Recreation Center.

Laughter Reigns - Join the Theatre Lawrence Vintage Players!

The Vintage Players meet at 1:30 p.m. every second and fourth Tuesday of the month at Theatre Lawrence, 4660 Bauer Farm Drive. Welcome to all Seniors who like to laugh and have fun.

The Vintage Players share skits and one-liners with each other at performances in the community.

For more information on the Vintage Players, please call Mary Ann at Theatre Lawrence, 8437469, ext. 201.

Leisure and Learning CataLog

TECHNOLOGY

Community Building.

Computer 101 (Lawrence Parks and Recreation) Tuesdays, February 23 - March 8, 2-3:30 p.m. Fee: $32 Location: Riverfront Computer Learning Center.

This beginning level class teaches the basic skills of two dimensional arts through drawing, painting and printmaking. Each project will give you a chance to explore what techniques fit your style. Creative arts are a great opportunity to experience the benefits of lifelong learning. All materials included.

Instructor: Mary St. John. Register at www.lprd.org or any Lawrence Recreation Center.

Designed for beginners or those with limited or no experience, this class will cover computer components, basic computer terminology, moving and copying folders and files, desktop shortcuts, and an introduction to the Internet with hands-on work at every lesson.

Take home curriculum included.

Instructor: Sharon Gan. Register at www.lprd.org or any Lawrence Recreation Center.

Intro to iPads (Lawrence Parks and Recreation) Tuesdays, February 9 - March 8, 10-11:30 a.m. Fee: $56 Location: Community Building.

Thinking about getting an iPad or already own one and not sure if you are getting the most out of it? This class will be a demonstration and learning session, so please bring your iPad with you. iPads will also be available during class. We will cover the basic operation of the device and apps for recreation, health, education, finance and socializing. Instructor: Karen Johnson. Register at www.lprd.org or any Lawrence Recreation Center.

Downtown Tuesday Painters (Douglas County Senior Services) Tuesdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Fee: None.

Location: Lawrence Senior Center Conference Room.

Bring your painting project and supplies and join the Downtown Tuesday Painters.

Acrylic Painting (Douglas County Senior Services) Saturdays (every other), December 5 & 19. 9:30 a.m. - noon. Fee: $20 per session. Location: Lawrence Senior Center. Instructor: Lori Dalrymple.

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Techniques, styles and tips taught with acrylic paints on canvas or other surfaces. Designed for beginners and experienced painters alike. Class is designed as a drop-in session, so start anytime. Bring your own supplies, suggested supply list available from instructor. No registration required, fee of $20 applies to each drop-in session attended.

University of Kansas to participate in an Intergenerational Choir. Sing popular music from yesterday and today. Led by music therapy students from KU. The Intergenerational Choir will rehearse , and perform once or twice a semester. Contact Becca Kurtz, beccakurtz@ku.edu.

(Don’t have email? Call Janet at 842-0543.)

MUSIC

ENTERTAINMENT

New Horizons Band (Douglas County Senior Services) Fridays, 4 - 5 p.m. Location: Lawrence Senior Center. Band Directors John Towner and Robert Wolfersberger encourage anyone interested in playing to join. Dues are $5 for the year. Contact John Towner at 785-865-3519 or 785-8658851 (cell), or by email at towner@ sunflower.com.

Theatre Lawrence Dress Rehearsal (Douglas County Senior Services) “Girls’ Weekend” - January 21, 7:30 p.m.

Intergenerational Choir (Douglas County Senior Services) Fridays, 12:30-1:30 p.m. Location: Lawrence Senior Center.

Seniors with an interest in singing are invited to join students from the

Farce by Karen Schaeffer. The women tell everyone they’re going to Dot’s weekend cabin for book club.

However, after the third case of wine comes through the door, it becomes clear there will be more stewing than reviewing. As bottles tip up, secrets spill out and men sneak in.

Note: Due to limited number of available dress rehearsal tickets, only 2 tickets will be allowed per request.

Tickets will be distributed after a

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Your professional and caring staff with OVER 35 years experience are here to help you with your C-PAP and BiPAP needs.

ART Art for Everyone (Lawrence Parks and Recreation) Mondays, February 1 - March 7, 7-8:30 p.m. Fee: $70 Location:

1006 W. 6th, Lawrence 785-749-4878 • 800-527-9596 • www.criticarehhs.com

Locally owned and operated for over 20 years.

Continued on page 10

60 & Better Page 10

Leisure and Learning CataLog

Continued from page 9

random drawing a week before the dress rehearsal date.

DAY/SHORT TRIPS New Theatre-Moon Over Buffalo (Lawrence Parks and Recreation) Wednesday, April 13, 10:45 a.m.4 p.m. Fee: $60 Location: Trip leaves from Community Building.

In this hilarious comedy two fading stars of the 1950’s are playing a comedy and a drama in rotation in Buffalo, New York. On the brink of a disastrous split-up, they receive word that they might have just one last shot at regaining their stardom.

One perfect performance is all they need. Unfortunately, everything that can go wrong does go wrong and no on stage knows if they’re in the drama or comedy. This trip will be in the LPRD department

bus. Register at www.lprd.org or any Lawrence Recreation Center.

Registration deadline: March 11, 2016.

ALSO HAPPENING AT THE SENIOR CENTER: Popcorn Fridays (Ongoing) Every Friday, 1:30-3:30 p.m. Fee: None, but donations appreciated.

Location: Lawrence Senior Center.

Join us each Friday afternoon to enjoy a bag of freshly popped popcorn, just like you’d get at the movie theater. What a perfect snack to start off the weekend. Limit 1 free bag per person, while supplies last.

Pool & Coffee (Ongoing) Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 8 a.m.

Bingo (Ongoing) Thursdays, 11-11:45 a.m.

Learn What to Expect at

“Welcome to Medicare” December 9

Are you new to Medicare? Do you have questions? Join Community Services Program Assistant and Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas (SHICK) Coordinator Barbara Sutterfield for this overview of the Medicare program from noon to 1 p.m., Wednesday December 9.

Participants are free to bring their lunch or reserve one through our Senior Meals program. For more information please contact Barbara at Douglas County Senior Services, 785-842-0543 or toll free 1-877-295-3277.

Writing Our Family Stories

By Gayle Sigurdson, LPRD Recreation Programmer Sharing family stories is an important way to forge a link between generations; fulfilling our desire to know where we came from. Creating a record to preserve shared family experiences doesnít require formal writing skills or an expensive investment - all you need is paper and pencil.

The upcoming holiday season is a great time to begin gathering memories that will spark stories. For example, prompt conversation with questions such as, “What was your favorite room at Grandmaís house?” “Who was the most beloved family pet?” The answers might surprise and delight you, leading the way for other topics. The resulting story may focus on people, certain events and specific places.

Come learn how to create your family’s narrative with Lawrence Parks and Recreation’s Writing Our Family Stories class. Taught

by Dr. Iris Wilkinson, professor at Washburn University, we will focus on different methods and prompts that you can use to help tell your story. Weekly classes begin January 20, 2016 and details are available at Lawrence recreation centers.

Trinity In-Home Care Services: Light Housekeeping Meal Preparation Grocery Shopping Personal Care Daily Living Support Mobility Assistance

Companionship Medication Reminders Local Transportation Community Integration Caregiver Relief Respite Care

w w w. t i h c . o r g • P h o n e : ( 7 8 5 ) 8 4 2 - 3 1 5 9

Stories bridge cultures and eras. This winter, consider taking the time to begin collecting and writing your family stories and start building a bridge.

Dr. Wilkinson is currently working toward national certification as a Poetry Therapist, and has led creative and therapeutic writing groups in a variety of settings.

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VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO DELIVER MEALS SERVING LAWRENCE, LECOMPTON, EUDORA, & BALDWIN CITY RESERVATIONS AND INFORMATION call 785-865-6925 Senior Wheels strives to meet the transportation needs of customers who are 60 years or older in Douglas County.

Accompanying spouses & caregivers are also eligible to ride at no additional charge.

Our drivers provide Door to Door assistance.

RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED FOR ALL RIDES.

Do you have an hour or so to spare around lunch time?

How about helping the Senior Meals program deliver meals to homebound seniors?

Volunteers are needed now!

Summer is a particularly challenging time for the program, as we lose student volunteers, and others have summer travel plans. This is a very rewarding volunteer experience, guaranteed to put a smile on your face. To become a volunteer meal delivery driver, or for more information, contact the DCSS Senior Meals program at 785-842-0543.

NEW HORIZONS BAND SCHEDULE Rehearsal are held at the Lawrence Senior Center, 745 Vermont Street.

Rehearsals and concerts are held at 4 p.m., unless otherwise noted. Band Directors John Towner, Robert Wolfersberger and Dave Ruhlen encourage anyone interested in playing to join. Dues are $5 for the year. Contact John Towner at 785-865-3519 or 785-865-8851 (cell), or by email at towner@ sunflower.com.

DECEMBER 4 - Pioneer Ridge Assisted Living (West), 4851 Harvard 11 - Rehearsal 18 - Arbor Court, 1510 St. Andrews Drive 25 - CLOSED (Christmas Holiday)

JANUARY 1 - 2016 - CLOSED (New Year’s Break) 8 - Rehearsal

SCHEDULE EARLY: Due to a heavy demand for transportation, rides may be scheduled as far in advance as 7 days or as little as 48 hours.

You should be ready to board 15 minutes prior to your scheduled ride.

COST: $ 3.00 for each one way trip within the city limits of each community. $15.00 for trips outside of the city limits.

(Example: a one way trip from Eudora to Lawrence) For detailed policy information, please call 785-865-6925 and ask for a Policy Manual. Baldwin City has a Volunteer Transportation Program.

For Reservations or information about rides in Baldwin City call 785-594-3376.

Home Health | Hospice | Rehabilitation | Help at Home (785) 843-3738

●

www.kansasvna.org

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DECEMBER 2015 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

1 Grief Support Group, 10:30 a.m., Grace Hospice, 1420 Wakarusa, Ste. 202. For information call Dave Jenkins, 85-228-0400.

4 Lawrence Chronic Illness Support Group, Location varies. Please call Rachel at 979-5393 or Jean at 8650016 for information.

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7 DCSS Caregiver Support Group, 2:15-3:45 p.m., Lawrence Senior Center. For information call Janet, 842-0543.

16 Kansas Veteranâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Commission discussion of benefits for lowincome veterans and surviving spouses, 1:30 p.m., Lawrence Senior Center. For information call Rick Massey at 843-5233.

17 Low Vision/Blind Outreach Ministry Dinner, 5:30-7 p.m., Immanuel Lutheran Church and Student Center, 2104 Bob Billings Parkway (15th and Iowa St. adjacent to KU Campus). This group meets for dinners, social and speaker events, as well as day trips. RSVP encouraged for purpose of dinner reservations.

Anyone in the community that is blind or has low vision is welcome. For information call 843-0620.

2015

9 Welcome to Medicare Meeting, 12 to 1 p.m., Lawrence Senior Center.

Informational meeting for those new to Medicare. For information call 842-0543.

14 Free Blood Pressure Check, 11 a.m. to Noon, Lawrence Senior Center. Provided by Midland Care Connection. No appointment needed.

14 Breast Cancer Support Group, 5:30 p.m., Presbyterian Manor, 1429 Kasold. For information, call 8425250 or 840-2768.

15 Parkinsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Support Group, 2 p.m., First Presbyterian Church.

For more information call Elaine, 760-1026.

15 Stroke Support Group, 4 p.m., Lawrence Memorial Hospital. For more information call 785-505-2886.

21 DCSS Caregiver Support Group, 2:15-3:45 p.m., Lawrence Senior Center. For information call Janet, 842-0543.

24 & 25 CLOSED for Christmas Holiday

28 Breast Cancer Support Group, 5:30 p.m., Presbyterian Manor, 1429 Kasold. For information, call 842-5250 or 840-2768.

January 1, 2016 - CLOSED for New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day

15 Grief Support Group, 10:30 a.m., Grace Hospice, 1420 Wakarusa, Ste. 202. For information call Dave Jenkins at 785-228-0400.

The Lawrence Bridge Club meets Saturdays from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Contact Steven Bogler, 690-7071 or Lisa Smith, 856-5049 for more information.

16 Douglas County Coalition on Aging (DCCOA), 8 a.m., Lawrence Senior Center.

If you would like your meeting listed in the calendar of events, please contact DCSS at 842-0543.

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LEGALESE

by Molly Wood

Q: I was cleaning out some stuff at home when I ran across an old file labeled “IMPORTANT.” Amongst ancient tax returns and insurance policies, I found the Will my husband and I had an attorney prepare for us about fifteen years ago. I was wondering how often it is recommended that a Will be revised?

A: A Will, once properly executed, can remain a valid legal document for a long time - sometimes for life, but there are many estate planning tools that might better suit your needs. It is a good idea to review all your legal arrangements, including your Advance Directives, periodically. Not only will this refresh your memory, it can also bring to your attention any changes that may need to be made. In fact, as the new year approaches, now is an opportune time to make sure that all of your legal affairs are in order.

The following is an annual checklist to help you to be legally prepared for the year to come.

ESTATE/FINANCIAL PLAN • Do you have an estate plan - Will, trust, transfer-on-death-deed, payon-death beneficiary designations - that is, have you formally

designated who gets your property when you die?

• Have you made primary and contingent beneficiary designations for your IRA, 401(k), securities, and accounts in financial institutions?

Are those beneficiary designations coordinated with your other estate planning strategies?

• Have there been any changes in the composition of your family (deaths, marriages, births) that should be addressed in your estate plan?

• Do you have a Durable General Power of Attorney (POA) or a Trust to manage your financial affairs if you become incompetent? (If you have an older POA document, you might consider having it redone; Kansas passed a comprehensive revision of its POA statute in 2004, and there’s lots of room for improvement over the old-style.)

• Do you have your original POA, Will or Trust, etc. in a safe place (safe deposit box, fireproof safe), and do the people who would be involved - your agent under your POA and your executor or successor trustee - know where to find them?

HEALTH CARE • Do you have a Living Will and Health Care Power of Attorney (HCPOA) to direct the medical care you receive in the event you become terminally ill, incompetent, or both?

• Does your HCPOA allow your doctor to provide confidential information to your agent or others under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act

(HIPAA)?

• Have you communicated your end-of-life wishes to your physician and family?

• Do your physician and close family members or friends have a copy of your HCPOA? • Do you have your original HCPOA and Living Will in a safe place (safe deposit box, fireproof safe)?

• Does your family know what type of burial arrangements you prefer?

What provisions for payment of your burial have you made?

INSURANCE • Is your life insurance current?

Have you disposed of old policies that are no longer in force? Have you reviewed your beneficiary designations on any current policies you retain?

• How about your long-term care insurance?

• Are your car and home owner’s insurance adequate? (Isn’t your home becoming more valuable or, more precisely, more expensive to replace?)

• Do you have copies of all your policies in a safe place?

your physician and family?

• Do you have a list of important people (family members, physicians, attorney, etc.) and how they can be contacted?

• Does a third party (family member, attorney, trusted friend) know the location of your important documents AND have the ability to gain access to them? (For example, if you have everything in a safe deposit box, you should make arrangements for that person to have access to the box.)

If you had difficulty answering any of the questions listed above, or if you have discovered that you need assistance getting your legal affairs ready for 2016, please contact your family lawyer or the Elder Law Hotline, a toll free legal advice and referral hotline for persons 60 and older, 1-888353-5337. An Elder Law Project attorney is available in Lawrence by appointment at Douglas County Senior Services, 842-0543.

(Editor’s Note: Molly M. Wood is an Elder Law attorney and a partner at Stevens & Brand, L.L.P. - www.

StevensBrand.com - in Lawrence.)

MISCELLANEOUS • Do you have a current inventory of the contents of your safe deposit box or fireproof safe? (It doesn’t have to be fancy - your dated handwritten list would suffice.)

• Do you have a list of valuables and jewelry?

• Do you have any organ donation requests, and are they known by

VIEVE LIFE | SHARE LIFE Right where you live.

Referral and resources for senior care and living.

785-813-1851 www.vievehealth.org

60 & Better Page 14

ESTATE PLANNING:

THE COURT WILL ...

Family Estate Planning • Trusts • Wills Powers of Attorney • Business Succession Planning Probate & Trust Administration • Asset Protection Planning Special Needs Planning

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WHEN YOU NEED US • Avoid Probate and Court Interference with Your Affairs • Minimize Family Infighting • Protect Heirs from Wasting Inheritances • Keep Assets in Your Bloodline • Preserve and Protect IRA’s and Retirement Accounts

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60 & Better Page 15

O.U.R.S. Dances • December 2015 (Oldsters United for Responsible Service)

PLEASE NOTE: All Dances are held from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Eagles, 1803 W 6th St. Carry-in meal at 7:15 p.m. Cover charge is $7 per person. Everyone welcome.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6 Country Melody

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13 Dr. Cook’s Medicine Show

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 20 Barbed Wire SUNDAY, DECEMBER 27 (Business Meeting 5 p.m.)

Borderline Country

DCSS Board of Directors

Dennis Domer, Chair

Judy Wright, Vice Chair

Kathy Clausing-Willis, Doni Mooberry, Secretary Treasurer Steve Tesdahl Judy Bellome Dr. Phil Godwin Ernesto Hodison Kelly Calvert Hank Booth Ellen Paulsen

ATTENTION

ALL SENIORS!

WHY? Would you sell real estate at auction?

Reason #12 A low cost of sellingBuyer bears all costs!

In case of bad weather please listen to KLWN 1320 AM radio for closing of senior center, meals and activities. Information will also be available on TV station KMBC Channel 9 and cable Channel 6.

The Auctioneers 800.887.6929 www.billfair.com

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Experience the latest in hearing aid technology!

Oticon’s Inium circuit is available in all models and uses smart frequency shifting and phase inversion technologies to suppress feedback while still maintaining a high level of audibility. Users experience the best possible signal fidelity through quiet operation and clearer distinctiveness of sounds.

Siemens’ Aquaris model is the only truly waterproof, rustproof, and shockproof hearing aid available. Siemens also makes rechargeable hearing aids and hearing aids that mask tinnitus while amplifying.

785-843-8479 1112 W. 6th St. Ste. 100 Lawrence, KS www.marstonhc.com

Marston Hearing Center is an authorized dealer for Oticon, Phonak, Resound, Starkey, and other major brands. We provide parts and in-house repairs for most hearing aids as well as manufacturer repairs on all makes of hearing aids.

Call Gerald Whiteside, Au.D., CCC-A today!

Editor: Janet Ikenberry Executive Director: Gary Nelson

Printer: Lawrence Journal-World 609 New Hampshire, Lawrence, KS 66044 Douglas County Senior Services, Inc., is funded by Douglas County Mill Levy • Older Americans Act through the Jayhawk Area Agency on Aging • Kansas Department on Aging • Kansas Department of Transportation • special grants • project income • fund-raising activities • and your donations.

Douglas County Senior Services, Inc. does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, age, sex, color, ancestry, national origin, disability, sexual orientation or size. If you feel that you have been discriminated against, you have the right to file a complaint with Douglas County Senior Services. 842-0543.

(TDD: 1-800-766-3777).

Toll free: 1-877-295-DCSS (1-877-295-3277) On the web: dgcoseniorservices.org