June 2014
Volume 41 No. 6
INSIDE Calendar of Events �������������������������� PG 5 Leisure and Learning Catalog ������� PG 8 Menu ����������������������������������������������� PG 12 Legalese ������������������������������������������ PG 13 Savvy Senior ������������������������������� PG 14
NEW ACTIVITIES HIGHLIGHTED IN JUNE
The Leisure and Learning Department is featuring two new activities this month. The first is a creative dance and movement class taught by Jill Cannon. Class will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2 to 3 p.m. at the Lawrence Senior Center beginning June 23 and running through July 30. This invigorating dance-fitness class provides modified, low-impact moves and easy-to-follow pacing for older adults who love a healthy, active lifestyle. Students will learn line dances, creative movement, and traditional dances from different cultures in a creative and social atmosphere. The fee for this class is $40. Call Rebecca at 842-0543 to register. If you’re interested in a one-time adventure, join us for the Tree Treasures Tour on Tuesday, June 10 from 10 a.m. to noon. Jon Standing will talk about the biggest and most beautiful trees in Lawrence during this bus tour. The emphasis will be on the biology, history and value of these remarkable specimens. A $17 fee is required for this activity, which is co-sponsored with Lawrence Parks and Recreation. Register at the Community Building, 115 W. 11th St., 832-7920.
MISSION: To create opportunities that allow Douglas County residents 60 years and older to remain independent and active in their homes and communities. VISIT US AT WWW.DGCOSENIORSERVICES.ORG
NEW HORIZONS BAND WRAPS UP 18TH SEASON By John Towner - New Horizons Band Director
The New Horizons Band concluded a very busy season with performances that included 14 concerts at retirement homes in Lawrence, the dedication of the Jack Connolly Community Room at DCSS, and the Concert at Free State High School. From September to May, it was either rehearsal or concert time each week! This year’s group was special to me because everyone was faithful and dedicated. We also had members who played secondary instruments rather than their primary instruments to help balance the sound better between woodwinds and brass. Bob Wolfersberger and Dave Ruhlen helped to direct this year so I could play my trombone some. There were many people who performed duties to make the band activities run more smoothly, including Diana Dyal, Gerry Carlisle, Bob Wolfersberger, and Paul Jordan, who sorted music -- a very time consuming and tedious job, and Bob Elder, who brought the podium to every concert. Our appreciation to Michael Kelly for taking the group photo, and to Ted Holdahl for making an excellent recording of our music -- another time consuming job. And thanks to Shirley Lemmons for compiling the roster of members and keeping the treasury. As the director for eleven years, I must say that this year really stands out. This group worked hard to prepare for concerts and make the music sound great! The extra help was truly appreciated. I am fortunate to have excellent players in each section. Several band members will attend the New Horizons music camp at UMKC in Kansas City. We hope they have a great time. And we hope everyone enjoys their summer. We’ll see you on September 5, when we start our new season!
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WORLD ELDER ABUSE AWARENESS DAY IS JUNE 15
This year’s theme: ONE PERSON. ONE ACTION. ONE NATION. UNITED AGAINST ELDER ABUSE. Did you know that every day 10,000 people turn 65 in the US alone? That trend is going to continue for nearly the next 20 years. Our demographics are shifting, and we will soon have more elder people in the US than ever before. At the same time that the population is growing, we know that a startling number of elders face abusive conditions. Every year an estimated 5 million, or 1 in 10, older Americans are victims of elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation. And that’s only part of the picture: Experts believe that for every case of elder abuse or neglect reported, as many as 23.5 cases go unreported. WEAAD serves as a call-to-action for individuals, organizations, and communities to raise awareness about abuse, neglect, and exploitation of elders. The International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the World Health Organization at the United Nations (UN) launched the first World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) on June 15, 2006 in an effort to unite communities around the world in raising awareness about elder abuse. WEAAD is in support of the UN’s International Plan of Action acknowledging the significance of elder abuse as a public health and human rights issue.
Fake Debt Collectors on the Rise: How to Spot a Fake and What to do Next A Letter From District Attorney Charles Branson This past month my office was contacted by a Douglas County resident who received an official looking email that stated he owed hundreds of dollars to an out-of-state agency. It turned out to be scam. Scams such as this are on the rise and American consumers are being targeted by scam artists from both within the United States and from around the globe. With the level of technology available to anyone with a computer, it is alarming how easy it is for financial scams to be perpetrated on unsuspecting victims. The scammers can use technology to make it appear they are associated with law firms, law enforcement and the Courts. This can make it extremely difficult to tell the difference between a real and a fake debt collector. The fake may even have some of your personal information, such as your birth date or an account number. What are some of the warning signals and
what can you do to protect yourself from a fake debt collector? How to Spot a Fake • is seeking payment on a debt or a loan you do not recognize; • refuses to give you a mailing address or phone number; • asks you for personal financial or sensitive information; or • exerts high pressure to try to scare you into paying, such as threatening to have you arrested or to report you to a law enforcement agency. What to do Next • ask for the caller’s name, company, street address and telephone number; • stop speaking with the caller and if you have the address, send a letter demanding the caller stop calling you;
• do not give him/her personal financial or other sensitive information (such as your Social Security number);
topic, the FTC has a wealth of information available at Dealing with Debt. http://www.consumer. ftc.gov/topics/dealing-debt.
• if you believe a debt is legitimate, but not the collector, contact your creditor directly and find out who, if anyone, the creditor has authorized to collect the debt;
I hope this information on how to protect yourself and your wallet from fake debt collectors is helpful to you. As always, for general consumer protection information, please contact my consumer protection division at 785-3302849. We are always ready to serve the citizens of Douglas County.
• report the call to the FTC. Additionally, if a collector tries to persuade you to pay a debt by wiring money or loading a rechargeable money card, this is a cue to stop communicating with him/her immediately and to report him/her. Those are not legitimate ways to resolve a debt. If you have specific questions on how to handle a debt, you will want to check with your personal attorney, but if you would simply like a good overview of the
(Some of the information in this article was obtained from the Federal Reserve Board and Federal Trade Commission and is not intended to provide legal advice. Legal advice can only be provided in an attorney-client relationship. This information must not be relied on as a substitute for obtaining legal advice from a licensed attorney.)
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MAKING MEDICARE MAKE SENSE Answers to Some of the Most Commonly Asked Questions
Q
As a medicare beneficiary, how can I lower the costs of the prescription drugs that I need to stay healthy?
A
There are several ways to cut the cost of your medicines, without compromising your health. For starters, talk to your doctor, and see if there are other, less-expensive medicines available. These can be generic formulations, lower-priced brand name medications, or even over-the-counter drugs. Switching may save you a lot of money. Also, if your doctor can recommend a lower cost drug option, before switching make sure that your current prescription drug
plan will help pay for it. If you can’t switch, consider using a mail-order pharmacy, particularly for medicines you will be taking for a long time, because most of the time you have to purchase mail-order in 3-month quantities. Most of the time, you will pay less by ordering this way, and renewing your order is as simple as a phone call. Be sure to check with your doctor about getting a prescription that can be renewed. If you’re not already part of a Medicare prescription drug plan, which is Medicare Part D, joining one can help, too, especially if you have multiple prescriptions, or must
take expensive brand-name drugs. You can always join a Medicare Part D plan during your initial enrollment period for Medicare. In most cases, the only other time you can join a Part D plan is during the open enrollment period in the fall, which is October 15 through December 7 every year, but there are some exceptions. One exception is for people who qualify for Medicare’s Extra Help program in paying for prescriptions. If you meet the limited income and resources qualifications for this program, the cost you pay for your prescriptions drops sharply, and in many cases, you won’t have to pay a monthly premium for the plan at all.
And, if you qualify, you can enroll in a Medicare prescription drug plan immediately, without waiting for the open enrollment period, to start cutting costs as quickly as possible. To apply for the Extra Help program contact Social Security at 1-800772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), or you can apply online at www. socialsecurity.gov. If you have a question about Medicare, call 1-800-MEDICARE, which is, 1-800-633-4227. Medicareís national toll-free helpline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, or visit www. medicare.gov or log onto www. healthcare.gov to read more about the Affordable Care Act.
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Volunteers Needed for SENIOR HEALTH INSURANCE COUNSELING
Are you looking for a rewarding volunteer opportunity? Do you enjoy helping others? Do you want to learn how to help people navigate through the Medicare maze? Douglas County Senior Services, Inc., in cooperation with Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas (SHICK), is currently recruiting volunteers to become trained SHICK Medicare counselors. Training will be held in Lawrence this summer. Following training volunteers may choose to offer guidance
as a Comprehensive Medicare Counselor, assisting beneficiaries in all areas of Medicare, or they may choose to help with Open Enrollment for Medicare managed care and prescription drug plans. Volunteers may also help in our DCSS SHICK Call Center a few hours a week. If you are interested in hearing more about these rewarding volunteer opportunities, please contact Criss Tomlin, SHICK Coordinator at Douglas County Senior Services, (785) 842-0543.
AICR HEALTHTALK Karen Collins, MS, RD, CDN American Institute for Cancer Research
Q
Is adding Parmesan cheese a good way to add flavor to salads and other healthy foods without adding a lot of calories?
A
Richly flavored cheese, like Parmesan, used in small amounts can be a smart strategy for adding flavor without many calories. One tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese adds only 22 calories, just less than one gram of saturated fat and only 76 milligrams (mg) of sodium. You might want to try the blocks of Parmesan and Romano, as they tend to have a stronger flavor than the pre-grated cheeses. Then you can grate just the amount you need at home. With a flavorful cheese like Parmesan or Romano, one tablespoon or less is plenty. However, when large amounts are melted over a food or when it’s part of baked dishes that include the Parmesan name (like Eggplant Parmesan), the calorie and fat (especially saturated fat) can add up. If adding some grated Parmesan to salads or vegetables helps you enjoy them so much more that you eat larger portions of these healthful foods, then overall it will probably help you fill up on fewer calories. A diet with plenty of leafy greens and other low calorie vegetables is linked to health benefits including lower risk of cancer, heart disease and more.
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JUNE 2014 CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2 DCSS Caregiver Support Group, 2:15-3:45 p.m., Lawrence Senior Center. For information call Janet, 842-0543.
17 Stroke Support Group, 4 p.m., Lawrence Memorial Hospital. For more information call 785-505-2886.
3 Grief Support Group, 10:30 a.m., Pioneer Ridge,4851 Harvard Road, in association with Grace Hospice. For information call Dave Jenkins, 785-228-0400.
17 Grief Support Group, 10:30 a.m., Pioneer Ridge,4851 Harvard Road, in association with Grace Hospice. For information call Dave Jenkins at 785-228-0400.
4 Kaw Valley OWL Annual Luncheon, 11:30 Wednesday, United Way Building, Kenneth Doud Room. RSVP to 8560057 by May 30. Cost $10
18 Douglas County Coalition on Aging (DCCOA), 8 a.m., Lawrence Senior Center.
11 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 Fibromyalgia & Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/ Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Support Group, “Focus on Improvement.” Location varies. Please call Rachel at 979-5393 or Jean at 865-0016 for information. 16 DCSS Caregiver Support Group, 2:15-3:45 p.m., Lawrence Senior Center. For information call Janet, 842-0543. 17 Parkinson’s Support Group, 2 p.m., First Presbyterian Church. For more information call Elaine, 760-1026.
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.
2014
19 Alzheimer’s Association - Heart of America Chapter Caregiver Support Group 5:30-6:45 p.m., Lawrence Memorial Hospital, Conference Room D-South. For information contact Kelly Jones at alz.org or 913-831-3888. 20 Low Vision/Blind Outreach Ministry Dinner, 5:30 p.m., Immanuel Lutheran Church and Student Center, 2104 Bob Billings Parkway (15th
The University Bridge Club of Lawrence meets Saturdays from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Contact Cora at 842-5567 for
more information. The Breast Cancer Support Group meets every Monday (except holidays) at 5:30 p.m. at Presbyterian Manor, 1429 Kasold. For information, call 842-5250 or 840-2768. If you would like your meeting listed in the calendar of events, please contact DCSS at 842-0543.
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Smart 911 Advantageous in an Emergency
Seniors in Douglas County have an advantage in emergency response thanks to the implementation of Smart911, a national safety database that provides 9-1-1 and response teams with enhanced data in emergency situations. Smart911 allows citizens to create a free Safety Profile of the critical data on their household that they want 9-1-1 to have in the event of an emergency. Once created, when a citizen places an emergency call, their profile is immediately made available to 9-11 and responders. This data is far more detailed than what is currently
available and allows response teams to have a better understanding of an emergency situation before they arrive on scene. A Safety Profile can be created and maintained online by visiting the Smart911 website at www. smart911.com. Douglas County Senior Services is also offering assistance with completing a safety profile for seniors who need it. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, please call the Community Services Department at 785-842-0543, or toll-free at 1-877-295-3277.
Help Seniors in Need
by Recycling Old Cell Phones Do you have old cell phones sitting around gathering dust? Let us take those old phones off your hands and put them to good use. Donate them to DCSS! Proceeds from our cell phone recycling program go to our Emergency Fund, which helps local seniors in need of assistance. While some donated phones are used for our 911 Emergency Cell Phone program, most are recycled through a fundraising program
that gives money back to us. Please think of us when you upgrade and spread the word to friends and family. Bring your old phones to one of these convenient drop-off locations throughout Douglas County: - Lawrence Senior Center - Baldwin City Public Library - Eudora Public Library - Lecompton City Hall
LAWRENCE PUBLIC LIBRARY BOOKTALKS Join Pattie Johnston once a month at one of the following locations for an informal, lively discussion of a variety of materials available from the main library collection or from the Bookmobile. You need not be a resident of the site to attend. The public is invited! Third Tuesday of each month: 10 a.m. - Midland Day Care*, 319 Perry St. 2 p.m. - Cottonwood Retirees, 1029 New Hampshire St. 3 p.m. - Babcock Place, 1700 Massachusetts St. Third Wednesday of each month: 10:30 a.m. - Brandon Woods, 1501 Inverness Dr. 1 p.m. - Prairie Commons, 5121 Congressional Circle Fourth Wednesday of each month: 9:45 a.m. - Presbyterian Manor, 1429 Kasold Dr. 1 p.m. - Pioneer Ridge Assisted Living, 4851 Harvard Rd. 2:30 p.m. - Drury Place, 510 St. Andrews Dr. *This is a secured site; please call for more information.
LAWRENCE PUBLIC LIBRARY BOOKMOBILE The Lawrence Public Library Bookmobile make stops each week at a variety of senior communities across the city. Anyone with a valid library card may select items from the bookmobile and may return materials that had been checked out at the main library building. If you do not have a library card, you may obtain one from the bookmobile by showing a valid ID. You need not be a resident of the site to make a selection from the bookmobile. So, when the weather makes you feel like staying closer to home, consider the Bookmobile. Monday: 9-10 a.m.- Prairie Commons, 5121 Congressional Circle 10:30-11:30 a.m. - Presbyterian Manor, 1429 Kasold Drive 11 a.m.-12 p.m. - Vermont Towers, 1100 Vermont St. Wednesday: 9-10 a.m., Brandon Woods, 1501 Inverness Drive 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. - Drury Place, 1510 St. Andrews Dr. 1 - 2 p.m. - Babcock Place, 1700 Massachusetts St. Friday: 9-10 a.m. - Clinton Place Apartments, 2125 Clinton Parkway 10:30-11:30 a.m. - Wyndham Place Apartments, 2551 Crossgate Dr. 1:30-2:30 p.m., Peterson Acres, 2910 Peterson Road. If you have a question concerning the bookmobile, call the LibraryĂs Senior Outreach Services at 8433833. Visit the Library’s website: www.lawrence.lib.ks.us.
ONGOING GROUPS AND DROP-IN ACTIVITIES Anyone 55 and over is welcome to participate in these fun and friendly activities. Groups listed below meet as specified. There are no fees required for most of these groups. Some supplies/ equipment are provided. Programs are dependent upon donations. Please contact the department for further information on these activities. LAWRENCE SENIOR CENTER 745 Vermont St.; Phone: (785) 842-0543 Kathryn Newman, Dining Center Coordinator Every Day... Pool & Coffee: 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Pool Room Monday... Beginning Spanish - Emphasis on Grammer: 1-2 p.m., Board Room Games: 1:30 - 4:30 p.m., Dining Center Tuesday... Downtown Tuesday Painters: 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Conference Room Wednesday... Beginning Spanish - Emphasis on Conversation: 1-2 p.m., Board Room Chair Exercise: 11:00 - 11:30 a.m., Conference Room (also Fri.) Thursday... Bingo: 11:00-11:45 a.m., Dining Center Friday... Popcorn Fridays: 1:30 - 3:30 Chair Exercise: 11:00 - 11:30 a.m., Conference Room
Clarinet rehearsal: Resumes in September. New Horizon Band: Resumes in September . BABCOCK PLACE 1700 Mass.; Phone: (785) 842-6976 Margaret Hawkins, Dining Center Coordinator Autoharp: Tues., 10 a.m.-12 p.m., hobby room. Contact: Berta Call, 785-883-4271. Bingo: Wed., 1:30 p.m. BALDWIN SENIOR CENTER 1221 Indiana, Baldwin City; Phone: (785) 594-2409 Maxine Scott, Dining Center Coordinator Pool: Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Pot Luck: Fri. (1st and 3rd), 6-9 p.m. PINECREST APARTMENTS 924 Walnut, Eudora; Phone: (785) 542-1020 Carol Mason, Dining Center Coordinator Bingo: Wed., 12:30-1 p.m. WE WANT YOUR INPUT! Please let us know if you are interested in starting an activity at your dining center. We can provide the materials, equipment, and facilities needed to implement a program tailor-made to fit your dining center situation. Contact the Leisure and Learning Department for details.
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WELCOME TO MEDICARE Meeting June 11
Are you new to Medicare? Do you have questions? Douglas County Senior Services will present a “Welcome to Medicare� meeting on Wednesday, June 11 from noon to 1 p.m. Community Services Program Assistant and Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas (SHICK) Coordinator Criss Tomlin will give an overview of Medicare and answer questions. Participants are free to bring their lunch or reserve one through our Senior Meals program. For more information please contact Criss Tomlin, SHICK Coordinator at Douglas County Senior Services, 785-842-0543 or toll free 1-877-295-3277.
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Leisure and Learning Catalog - Course Description Call 842-0543 to enroll
DCSS offers a variety of programs and classes for Douglas County residents age 55 and over. Ongoing activities are also listed in this publication. Call 842-0543 for information, to offer suggestions or to volunteer. Fill out the registration form in this newsletter and mail it with your payment to DCSS, 745 Vermont St., Lawrence, KS 66044. Before making out your check, please note that some classes are co-sponsored, and checks may need to be made out to someone other than DCSS. Additionally, enrollments in Lawrence Parks and Recreation classes are processed by that office (call 785-832-7920). Refund or Credit? A full refund or credit will be given for all classes, events or trips
Leisure and Learning Catalog
30 days prior to the class or event, except theater 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. Registration must specify needs. Registrant must provide information at time of enrollment. FEATURED JUNE ACTIVITIES A.M. Walking Club Need exercise? Then come down to the East Lawrence Rec Center from 7-10 a.m., Monday through Friday. You’ll get your heart pumping and have a great time building friendships with fellow walkers. FREE! For more information, contact Ross Schraeder at (785) 832-7950.
Popcorn Fridays Every Friday, 1:30-3:30 p.m. Fee: None, but donations appreciated. Location: Lawrence Senior Center.
biology, history, and value of these remarkable specimens. Register at the Community Building, 115 W. 11th St., 832-7920.
Enjoy a bag of freshly popped popcorn, just like you’d get at the movie theater. A perfect snack to start off the weekend. Limit 1 free bag per person, while supplies last.
Theatre Lawrence Dress Rehearsal: The King and I Thursday, June 12, show starts at 7:30 p.m. Fee: None. Location: Theatre Lawrence.
Computer 101 Saturdays, June 7-14, 2- 4 p.m. Fee: $30. Location: Riverfront Plaza Computer Lab. Instructor: Andrew Torres.
It is 1862 in Siam when an English widow, Anna Leonowens, and her young son arrive at the Royal Palace in Bangkok, having been summoned by the King to serve as tutor to his many children and wives. The King is largely considered to be a barbarian by those in the West, and he seeks Anna’s assistance in changing his image, if not his ways. With both keeping a firm grip on their respective traditions and values, Anna and the King grow to understand and, eventually, respect one another, in a truly unique love story. The dazzling score includes “Whistle a Happy Tune,” “Getting to Know You,” “Hello Young Lovers,” and “Shall We Dance.” Note: Due to limited number of available dress rehearsal tickets, only 2 tickets will be allowed per request. Tickets will be distributed after a random drawing a week before the dress rehearsal date.
Designed for those with no or little experience with computers, Computer 101 uses hands-on experience to make you comfortable operating the computer. You will learn terminology, parts of the computer, use of the mouse and keyboard, and develop a general understanding of the computer. Register at the Community Building, 115 W. 11th St., 832-7920. *NEW* Tree Treasures Tour Tuesday, June 10, 10 a.m.12 p.m. Fee: $17. Location: Lawrence Senior Center. Instructor: Jon Standing. We’ll take a tour to appreciate and learn about the biggest and most beautiful trees of Lawrence. Emphasis will be on the
*NEW* Creative Dance and Movement Tuesdays and Thursdays, June 23- July 30, 2-3 p.m. Fee: $40. Location: Lawrence Senior Center. Instructor: Jill Cannon. Minimum: 5. Maximum: 15. This invigorating, dancefitness class provides modified, low-impact moves and easy-to-follow pacing for older adults who love a healthy, active lifestyle. You will learn line dances, creative movement, and traditional dances from different cultures in a creative and social atmosphere. Sign up today to learn some new moves and make new friends while improving overall health. DAY/SHORT TRIPS For reservations please contact Rebecca Clancy at 842-0543. Detailed fliers available at the Lawrence Senior Center. If making a reservation for any of the following trips, please make the check payable to: Group Getaways. Historic Leavenworth Thursday, June 26. Fee: $79. Pick-up/Drop-off location: Lawrence. This “Doin’ Time in Leavenworth Getaway” offers a variety packed day trip to the oldest city in Kansas! We begin with a guided tour and carousel ride at the C.W.
Leisure and Learning Catalog
Parker Carousel Museum. Then we will enjoy a beef brisket meal with the Harvey Girls, followed by a guided tour of Ft. Leavenworth: the oldest continuously operating military installation West of the Mississippi River. Due to visiting Ft. Leavenworth, you must bring Government issued photo ID on this tour. Great Plains Theatre featuring “Always - Patsy Cline” Wednesday, August 13. Fee: Before June 27: $79; after June 27: $89. Pick-up/Dropoff location: Lawrence.
This getaway takes us to the Great Plains Theatre, Kansas’ premier professional theatre in Abilene. Included lunch will be at Mr. K’s Farmhouse, formerly known as Lena’s. “Always - Patsy Cline” is based on the true story of Patsy Cline’s friendship with Houston housewife, Louise Seger and also includes hit songs “Anytime,” “Walkin’ After Midnight,” “She’s Got You,” “Sweet Dreams,” and “Crazy.” If you enjoy the music of Patsy Cline, you won’t want to miss this production that combines humor, sadness, reality, and great music. Clydesdales & Cash “Ring of Fire” Thursday-Friday, September 4-5. Fee per person: $214 for double; $261 for single. Pick-up/Drop-off location: Lawrence.
This trip takes us to Boonville and the quaint villages of Arrow Rock and Blackwater, MO. Lunch is included on route to the hotel. In Arrow, we’ll visit the Lyceum Theatre and enjoy the production of “Ring of Fire.” This musical spotlights iconic songs of Johnny Cash and tells a story about love and faith, struggle and success, rowdiness and redemption, and home and family. The following day we will visit Warm Springs Ranch with a guided tour through the Budweiser Clydesdale headquarters. Interact with foals, mares and stallions, and also view iconic Clydesdale items. A visit to Blackwater is last with lunch included before returning home. Powell Gardens & Cockrell Mercantile Wednesday, October 1. Fee: before August 14: $69; after August 14: $79. Pick-up/Dropoff location: Lawrence. This gardening getaway takes us to beautiful Powell Gardens, located in Kingsville, MO.
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Explore over 970 acres of botanical bliss and also visit the Marjorie Powell Allen Chapel. Lunch is included. Next enjoy a unique shopping adventure at Cockrell Mercantile which consists of 5 distinctive buildings in a country setting. EDUCATION, HOBBY & FINANCE AARP Smart Driver Course Thursday and Friday, July 17- 18, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Fee: $15 for AARP Members, $20 for non-members. 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. 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 1:00 p.m. on your own. Limited spots available, please call 842-0543 to register. Continued on page 10
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Continued from page 9
Fundamentals of Estate Planning *Please note date change Thursday, July 17, 2-3:30 p.m. Fee: None. Location: Lawrence Senior Center. Instructor: Robert Ramsdell. Death is a certainty, incapacity a possibility. You need to plan for both. Fundamentals of Estate Planning will help you create those plans. The class covers what happens under intestate succession if you die without a plan; the uses of a Will or Revocable Living Trust; an overview of probate administration; the impact of
Leisure and Learning Catalog
estate and gift taxes; nontestamentary transfer options, such as holding property in a joint tenancy; powers of attorney for financial and healthcare decision-making; Living Wills and Do Not Resuscitate Directives; and a very general overview of how limitations on Medicaid eligibility might affect your assets. The presentation lasts about an hour, followed by an open question-and-answer period.
will stress some of the basics of the Spanish language and useful words and phrases.
Beginning SpanishEmphasis on Grammar Mondays, 1-2 p.m. Location: Lawrence Senior Center Board Room. This course
ART
Beginning SpanishEmphasis on Conversations Wednesdays, 1-2 p.m. Location: Lawrence Senior Center Board Room. This course is for beginners wanting to learn Spanish- no prior knowledge of Spanish required. Please bring your own English to Spanish dictionary.
Acrylic Painting Class Saturdays, 9:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. Fee: $20 per session. Location: Lawrence Senior Center. Instructor: Lori Dalrymple (local area and national artist). Join Lori as she teaches acrylic painting to students of all levels of expertise. No need to pre-register. Supplies not included. If you already have supplies please bring them and if you are starting out and need assistance in getting supplies, please call Lori at 785-917-0118. Downtown Tuesday Painters Tuesdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Location: Lawrence Senior Center Conference Room. Bring your painting project and supplies and join the Downtown Tuesday Painters.
HEALTH & FITNESS Stepping On Tuesdays, September 23 November 4, 1 - 3 p.m. Fee: $25. Location: Lawrence Public Library. Minimum: 10. Maximum: 16. Join us for this 7 week, community-based workshop where you will learn balance and strength exercises as well as develop specific knowledge and skills to prevent falls. This program is conducted by trained and certified instructors and also features community experts that will discuss topics relevant to reducing your fall risk. This program is co-sponsored by Douglas County Senior Services, Lawrence Memorial Hospital, Lawrence Douglas County Housing Authority, and the Lawrence Public Library. A 5-pound ankle weight used for strengthening exercises is included. Limited spots available, please register early by calling 842-0543. Please Note: If you are registering for one of the exercise programs below, please make the check payable to: Lawrence Parks and Recreation Arthritis Foundation Tai Chi - ages 60 and up Mondays and Fridays, June 2 - July 25, 10 - 11 a.m. Fee: $41. Location: Community Building. Instructor: Susan Pomeroy.
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Leisure and Learning Catalog
This program is designed to improve the quality of life for people with arthritis using Sun style Tai Chi, one of the four major recognized styles of Tai Chi. This style includes agile steps and exercises that may improve mobility, breathing and relaxation. The movements don’t require deep bending or squatting, which makes it easier and more comfortable to learn. Register at the Community Building, 115 W. 11th St., 832-7920. Tai Chi - ages 60 and up Wednesdays, June 4 - July 23, 10 - 11:10 a.m. Fee: $30. Location: Community Building. Instructor: Susan Pomeroy.
correct breath, you will completely oxygenate the body and the brain, improving blood circulation and your sense of well being. Register at the Community Building, 115 W. 11th St., 832-7920. ENTERTAINMENT New Theatre Matinee Smokey Joe’s Café: The Songs of Leiber & Stoller Wednesday, August 20, 2014, 10:30 am - 4 p.m. Fee: $60. Transportation provided from Lawrence Senior Center. Maximum: 15.
Four years running on Broadway, Smokey Joe’s Café is a compelling rock ‘n roll This ancient Chinese movement musical revue encompassing the songs of Leiber and improves strength, flexibility, Stoller, the inventors of this concentration and balance by music genre. Their timeless combining gentle physical songs provide the basis for movement and mental discipline. Slow movements also this electrifying entertainment that had critics raving and strengthen muscles and joints, audiences stampeding the not to mention reduce stress, box office during its recordfatigue and the risk of falls due breaking Broadway run. to increased balance. Register at the Community Building, 115 The show features some of the greatest songs ever W. 11th St., 832-7920. recorded including: “On Broadway,” “Hound Dog,” Yoga - ages 60 and up “Jailhouse Rock,” “Stand Thursdays, June 5 - July 24, By Me,” “Spanish Harlem,” 9:30 - 10:45 a.m. Fee: $30. Location: Community Building. “Love Potion #9,” “Young Blood,” “Yakety Yak,” “I’m A Instructor: Annie Wilsey. Woman” and “Kansas City.” As always the price includes A less vigorous beginner’s transportation, a gourmet lunch class adapted for older adults. buffet, and the show. Limited Stretch stiff muscles and learn tickets available, please call to correctly align your spine 842-0543 to register. through slow, progressive traction. While using the full capacity of the lungs through
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. 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 except for fixed stops.
You should be ready to board 15 minutes prior to your scheduled ride. Daily fixed stop: 1:15 PM Monday through Thursday from the Lawrence Senior Center. 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 785865-6925 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.
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JUNE
Menu Entrées MONDAY, JUNE 2 - Polish Sausage TUESDAY, JUNE 3 - Meat Goulash WEDNESDAY, JUNE 4 - Chicken Enchiladas THURSDAY, JUNE 5 - Baked Ham FRIDAY, JUNE 6 - Turkey Sandwich MONDAY, JUNE 9 - Pulled Pork TUESDAY, JUNE 10 - Tomato and Basil Chicken WEDNESDAY, JUNE 11 - Hamburger THURSDAY, JUNE 12 - Caribbean Chicken FRIDAY, JUNE 13 - Ham Salad MONDAY, JUNE 16 - Peppercorn Chicken TUESDAY, JUNE 17 - Ham, Macaroni and Cheese WEDNESDAY, JUNE 18 - Chicken Spaghetti THURSDAY, JUNE 19 - Smothered Steak FRIDAY, JUNE 20 - Chicken Salad MONDAY, JUNE 23 - Beef Tips TUESDAY, JUNE 24 - Chicken Nuggets WEDNESDAY, JUNE 25 - Spaghetti and Meatballs THURSDAY, JUNE 26 - Hot Dog FRIDAY, JUNE 27 - Grilled Chicken Pasta Salad MONDAY JUNE 30 - Meatloaf (Menu subject to change without notice.)
“What’s for lunch?” “Grab & Go” Senior Carry-out Meals Available On the go? In a hurry? No time to sit and eat? Senior Meals Grab & Go is the answer! Carry-out meals are available to seniors age 60 and over and their spouses who need a fast, nutritious meal on the go. Call any Senior Dining Center at least a day in advance to reserve your meal, and it will be ready to Grab & Go. A donation of $2.75 per meal is suggested. For more information about the Senior Dining Center nearest you, see the listings in this newsletter. Home delivered meals for homebound seniors are also available. Call the Senior Meals Program at 842-0543 for information.
DINING CENTER LOCATIONS Please call by 11 a.m. on the day before to make a reservation. All meals are served by Noon. All DCSS Dining Centers meet accessibility guidelines established by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). A donation of $2.75 per meal is suggested. To cancel a meal at any of the dining centers please call 785-842-0543 and leave a message.
Lawrence Senior Center
Kathryn Newman, coordinator 842-0543 745 Vermont, Lawrence
Babcock Dining Center
Margaret Hawkins, coordinator 842-6976 Babcock Place Apartments 17th & Massachusetts, Lawrence
Eudora Dining Center
Carol Mason, coordinator 760-2102 Pinecrest II Apts. 924 Walnut, Eudora
Baldwin Senior Center
Maxine Scott, coordinator (785) 594-2409 1221 Indiana, Baldwin City For information about meals in Lecompton, call 842-0543.
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LEGALESE by Molly Wood
Q: I’ll be turning 62 years old in November. Should I begin drawing my Social Security retirement benefits, wait until my full retirement age of 66, or hold off until age 70? A: Deciding when to begin drawing SS benefits is a personal choice that is highly dependent upon your individual and family circumstance. There is no one “best age” for everyone and, ultimately, it is your choice. Would it be better for you to begin receiving benefits early with a smaller monthly amount or wait for a larger monthly payment later that you may not receive as long? The answer depends on a number of factors, such as your current cash needs, your health and family longevity, whether you plan to work in retirement, whether you have other retirement income sources, your anticipated future financial needs and obligations, and, of course, the amount of your future Social Security benefit. Actuarially, if you live to the average life expectancy for someone your age, you will receive about the same amount
in lifetime benefits no matter whether you choose to start receiving benefits at age 62, full retirement age, age 70 or any age in between. But, of course, you’re not “average,” and your individual life is not dictated by actuarial tables. Your monthly benefit amounts will differ substantially based on your retirement age; you can get lower monthly payments for a longer period of time or higher monthly payments over a shorter period of time. One important thing to remember when choosing is that the amount you receive when you first get benefits sets the base for the amount you will receive for the rest of your life (though you will receive annual cost-of-living adjustments and, depending on your work history, may receive higher benefits if you continue to work). It’s easier to think through the possible consequences if we attach some hypothetical numbers. If your full retirement age is 66, let’s say, for example, that your monthly benefit starting at that age is $2,000. If you choose to start getting benefits this winter at age 62, your monthly benefit will be reduced by 25 percent to $1,500 to account for the longer period of time you receive benefits. This is generally a permanent reduction in your monthly benefit. Also, if you start your benefits before your full
retirement age, your ability to continue working is limited by the “earnings penalty,” that is, you’d have to pay back some of your Social Security if you earn more than $15,480 (in 2014) at work If you choose to not receive benefits until age 70, you would increase your monthly benefit amount to $2,640. This increase is from delayed retirement credits you get for your decision to postpone receiving benefits past your full retirement age. The benefit amount at age 70 is 32 percent more than you would receive per month if you chose to start getting benefits at full retirement age. Another consideration is whether you have a spouse and whether your spouse is eligible for a benefit based on your work record. If you die before your spouse, he or she may be eligible for a survivor benefit based on your work record, particularly if you have earned more than your spouse over your lifetime. If you begin receiving Social Security benefits early, Social Security cannot pay your surviving spouse a full benefit from your record. Also, if you wait until after the full retirement age to get benefits, your surviving spouse - if he or she is at least full retirement age - generally will receive the same benefit amount that you would have received.
Many of us will live much longer than the “average” retiree, and, generally, women tend to live longer than men. About one in three 65-yearolds today will live to age 90, and more than one in seven will live to age 95. Social Security benefits, which last as long as you live, provide valuable protection against outliving savings and other sources of retirement income. (Editor’s Note: Molly M. Wood is a partner at Stevens & Brand, L.L.P., in Lawrence, Kansas. If you have a legal question or concern, call your attorney, or you may contact the Kansas Elder Law Hotline, a toll-free legal advice and referral service for Kansas Seniors, 1-(888)-353-5337. The Elder Law Project attorney is available by appointment in Douglas County at the Lawrence Senior Center, 842-0543.)
DCSS Board of Directors Pattie Johnston, President Dennis Domer, Vice President Judy Wright, Secretary Jason Hornberger, Treasurer Judy Bellome Hank Booth Sue Brown Kathy Clausing-Willis Dr. Phil Godwin Ellen Paulsen
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How to Help Seniors with their Computer Issues from Far Away Dear Savvy Senior, Are there any computer software products that you know of that will let me help my parents with their computer issues from afar? They are in their seventies and frequently call me with their computer questions and problems, but I live across town and don’t always have time to get in the car and drive over to help them. What’s available that can help us? Weary Son Dear Weary, Helping an elder loved one with their computer questions or problems over the phone can be frustrating and difficult. Fortunately, there are a number of resources available today that offer remote access software
that can easily help you assist your parents with their computer issues from afar. One of the best is TeamViewer, which is completely free to use and works with Windows and Macintosh computers. To get started, you and your parents will need to go to TeamViewer.com and install their free software on each of your computers. How-to videos are available on their site to help with the installation. Once installed - and with their permission - you will be able to access your parent’s computer right from your own computer wherever you are. Both machines must have broadband Internet for this to work. This software will give you
the ability to actually see what’s appearing on your parent’s computer screen, and will let you remotely take charge of their computer so you can show them how to do something, or you can do it for them while they watch. Almost anything can be done remotely with this software. You can even keep a live video chat open at the same time you’re helping them. If you’re interested in shopping around, some other free remote access programs worth a look include Chrome Remote Desktop (go to chrome.google.com/webstore and type in “Chrome Remote Desktop” in the”Search the store” box to find it), and SkyFex (skyfex.com), which works only with Windows. Skype also has a screen share feature (see skype.com/en/features/
screen-sharing) that lets you share your screen and video chat at the same time, but you can’t actually take control of the other person’s computer. You can only show them what they should be doing by demonstrating it on your own desktop. Professional Tech Support If your parents need more tech support than you are able to manage, another option to consider is to sign them up with a tech support company like Geek Squad (geeksquad.com, 800-433-5778), which also offers remote access capabilities to help your parents with almost any computer issue. Whenever they would need assistance, they could call the Geek Squad toll free number anytime, 24 hours a day, or log in to their website. A Geek Squad representative would then help them initiate a remote access session, so they could remotely show them how to do something, or make repairs or adjustments to their computer. Once the call is completed, the remote control access would be disconnected from your parent’s computer. In addition to the remote access help, Geek Squad tech support also offers free anti-virus software, they cover up to three computers (or other devices), and provide unlimited phone and in-person tech support at any Best Buy store. Costs range from $200 for one year, $280 for two years or $350 for three years, with a 15 percent discount available to AARP members. (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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O.U.R.S. (Oldsters United for Responsible Service) Dances • June 2014 PLEASE NOTE: All Dances are held from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus, 2206 East 23rd St. Admission for dances is $5 per person. Everyone welcome.
• SUNDAY, JUNE 1 Country Melody • SUNDAY, JUNE 8 Dr. Cook’s Medicine Show • SUNDAY, JUNE 15 Barbed Wire • SUNDAY, JUNE 22 Borderline Country (Business Meeting 5 p.m.) • SUNDAY, JUNE 29 Twang Daddys
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Editor: Janet Ikenberry Executive Director: Kristin Scheurer 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