Volume 32, No. 11
November 2014
the
Best Times
INFORMING & SUPPORTING JOHNSON COUNTY’S 60+ ADULTS
Eva Hartwich fled Holocaust to live in Shanghai Ghetto Pages 12-13
www.jocogov.org /thebest times
Johnson County Manager’s Office 111 S. Cherry Street, Suite 3300 Olathe, KS 66061
Publication of Johnson County Government
Honoring all local vets from all wars Too much of a good thing! Love of baseball stays Royal blue
Veterans Day celebration features parade, program. Page 15 Healthy foods can be detrimental to a diet. Page 22 Greg Pryor: From 1985 champ to Life Priority. Page 32
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Event offers free breakfast for vets
Barn Players end season with La Cage Aux Folles
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ext on stage at The Barn Players is “La Cage Aux Folles.” The classic musical comedy is the winner of six Tony Awards and was made into the popular movie “The Birdcage.” The show will play from Nov. 7-23 with Friday and Saturday performances at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. It is the Barn Players final 2014 regular season production. Music in “La Cage Aux Folles” features includes “I Am What I Am,” “Song On The Send,” and “The Best of Times.” It is rated “PG.” The show is directed by Kipp Simmons with musical direction by Martha Risser and choreography by Rob Reeder. Tickets are $18 and may be purchased online at www.thebarnplayers.org or at the theatre box office prior to each performance. Tickets with senior discounts (65+) are $15. More information is available by calling 913432-9100.
he Johnson County Park and Recreation District’s 50 Plus Department is again teaming with the city of Overland Park to offer Veterans Day activities on Monday, November 10, at the Matt Ross Community Center, 8101 Marty, Overland Park. Participants can join members of the color guard at 8:30 a.m. as they raise the flag and honor veterans. Next up is a line up of patriotic musical presentations. Enjoy a delicious pancake breakfast from Chris Cakes and veterans eat free. For family members and members of the public, there will be a $5 charge for breakfast. With the exception of breakfast for non-veterans, there is no charge for the two-hour program, but reservations are required and can be made by calling 913-642-6410 by November 3.
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MANDY DOULL
(913) 522-7167 MandyDoull@ReeceAndNichols.com • November 2014
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• November 2014
Volume 32, No. 11
the editor’s view
November 2014
Thanksgiving wishbone
the
Best Times
By Gerald Hay, editor The Best Times
THIS & T HAT The Best Times, a monthly publication of Johnson County Government, is mailed without charge to Johnson County residents who are 60 years of age and older. Subscriptions are available for $15 annually for those who do not qualify to receive it. If you are interested in receiving The Best Times, call 913-715-8930. Mission: The Best Times is a monthly magazine provided for all Johnson County residents age 60 and older, publishing articles that inform, challenge, support, entertain, and persuade. Contributions to support the mission of The Best Times should be made payable to The Best Times and mailed to the address below, or online at www.jocogov.org/thebesttimes.
Publishing of letters from readers, opinion columns, or advertising does not constitute agreement or endorsement by this magazine or Johnson County Government. Interim Director of Public Affairs and Communications: Jody Hanson 913-715-0423 email: jody.hanson@jocogov.org Editor: Gerald Hay, 913-715-0736 email: gerald.hay@jocogov.org Circulation & Advertising Sales: Che’rell Bilquist, 913-715-8920 email: cherell.bilquist@jocogov.org
111 S. Cherry Street, Suite 3300 Olathe, KS 66061 913-715-8930 800-766-3777 TDD DEADLINE FOR EDITORIAL AND ADVERTISING COPY IS THE 8TH OF THE MONTH PRECEDING PUBLICATION
On the Cover
Eva Hartwich, 93, Leawood, was 18 when she fled Germany to find a safe haven in China during World War II. Cover story photos by Paul Andrews
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hanksgiving was always special as a boy growing up in western Kansas. For one, I enjoyed turkey – a real one – not to cook, but to pet. Its name was Tom. That was the only name I could think of when Dad brought home a turkey chick to join the small flock of chickens that I raised as a child, with my first job of going door-to-door in the neighborhood and selling three dozen fresh eggs for one buck. That was big money for someone my age. All of the chickens were also pets. Each had a name. In naming the newest member of my flock, Dad explained that tom turkeys were male; hen turkeys were female birds. A turkey chick named Hen didn’t make sense in a chicken coop so Tom had to do. Later as the turkey grew big and large, but never did gobble, I did finally understand that a better name would have been Tomilyn. At Thanksgiving, my parents would save the turkey “wishbone” (technically called the furcula), lay it up somewhere on the kitchen sill to dry, and then a few days later I’d get to make a wish and snap the wishbone with my older brother holding the other side. When it broke, whoever held the longer piece would receive their secret wish. Sometimes the breaks would go my way, but my childhood wishes never were fulfilled. • Never did kiss Annette Funicello, but once saw her at Disneyland when she was much, much older, and far over the hill from my young boyhood dreams. She had to be pushing her mid-20s back then. • Never could carry a tune like Elvis, shake my hips, or drive girls wild. Did have to run a few times when skinny Linda Farley tried to kiss me. She was no Annette. • Never did find any buried treasure with my best friend Bill Alexander in the pasture behind the house. Took a while to get out of that rut at age 12, especially after Dad always made us fill in the holes. My older brother, stuck-up cousin Jane, and Linda never did vanish off the
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surface of the earth – a frequent wish more often than just at holiday bone tug-a-wars, especially when my brother picked on me, my cousin annoyed me, and Linda tried to peck me. But, all was not lost over the years since then. Thanksgiving memories, past and present, are more important than turkeys, stuffed or as pets, and cranberry sauce; the official beginning of the Christmas shopping season; or who gets the long end of the wishbone. Thanksgiving Day, which is rooted in this country’s earliest traditions, has historically been a reverent and joyful occasion that is relished by the powerful and powerless, the rich and the poor, the majority and minority, the religious and agnostic alike. This is an authentic American holiday for all generations to pause, to reflect, to commune with friends and relatives, and to express our gratitude and collective blessings, past and present. Despite everything else that may be going on in our busy and sometimes complicated lives, we can pause on Thanksgiving Day — just to say thanks for the personal memories that life can bring. Still like to tell others the holiday story about Tom, the him that was a hen. Do miss Annette and saw Linda at the school reunion four years ago. We hugged and she kissed me on the cheek. I didn’t run. Dig in the yard a lot, planting flowers, finding natural treasure in their beauty. Still can’t sing or shake my hips with vigor without looking for Bengay. And, now await the opportunity to break a wishbone with grandchildren, opting to follow Dad’s lead when we shared those experiences long ago. He always had the knack of saying the right thing in explaining the custom of breaking the turkey wishbone. Eager to have my wish come true, the first few times we pulled wishbones a part, I was always disappointed, ending up the small end of the bone (the first to marry? Egad! A terrible fate for a boy to think about with Linda two doors away!) while he had the larger part. He made it right by telling me: “My wish was that you would get yours.” Best wishes to all from The Best Times for the holiday season.
P.S. Please share your favorite Thanksgiving story on The Best Times Facebook at www. facebook.com/jocobesttimes.
• November 2014
Johnson County Area Agency on Aging Paid for by Old Americans Act funding
November honors family caregivers
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By Gordon L. Davis
ach year, more and more Americans are caring for a loved one with a chronic condition, disability, or the frailties of old age. There are as many as 90 million family caregivers in the U.S. today.
Two out of every five adults are family caregivers. 39 percent of all adult Americans are caring for a loved one who is sick or disabled. Alzheimer’s is driving the numbers up. More than 15 million family caregivers are providing care to more than 5 million loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease. But it’s not just the elderly who need caregiving. The number of parents caring for children with special needs is increasing, too, due to the rise in cases of many childhood conditions. Wounded veterans require family caregivers, too. As many as 1 million Americans are caring in their homes for service members from the Iraq and Afghanistan wars who are suffering from traumatic brain injury, post-traumatic stress disorder, or other wounds and illnesses. And it’s not just women doing the caregiving. Men are now almost as likely to say they are family caregivers as women are (37 percent of men; 40 percent of women). And 36 percent of younger Americans between ages 18 and 29 are family caregivers as well, including 1 million young people who care for loved ones with Alzheimer’s. Family caregiving is serious work. Almost half of family caregivers perform complex medical/nursing tasks for their loved ones – such as managing multiple medications, providing wound care, and operating specialized medical equipment. Family caregivers are the backbone of the nation’s longterm care system. Family caregivers provide $450 billion worth of unpaid care each year. That’s more than total Medicaid funding, and twice as much as homecare and
nursing home services combined. With the ranks of family caregivers growing every year – tens of millions strong – we recognize the importance to the nation of the role that family caregivers play now more than ever! Celebrate this month by helping family caregivers reach out for help and being there to provide it when asked. Caregivers expend a lot of themselves to meet the needs of the person being cared for. It may be possible to ease their stress by participating in some services available in the community. The Johnson County Area Agency on Aging (AAA) receives funding through the Older Americans Act to provide support services for caregivers. Services available for adults 60 and older include: • Assessment –an in-home meeting with a potential client to review the caregiving situation, determine needs for services to support the caregiving role, and develop a plan of services. • Counseling – identification of caregiving concerns and identification of approaches to resolving those concerns. • In-Home services - such as attendant care, homemaking and chore service for the older adult who is the focus of caregiving. • Supplemental Support Services – services or supplies needed to ease the burden of the caregiver. • Meals-on-Wheels. • Respite Care – temporary relief of caregiving responsibilities for primary caregivers. • Caregiver Assistance News (newsletter) For information on the Family Caregivers Support Initiative of the AAA, call an Information & Assistance Specialist at 913-715-8861. The AAA website also has information about these services; visit http://www.jocogov.org/dept/human-services/area-agency-aging/caregiver-support. Gordon Davis is an information specialist with the Johnson County Area Agency on Aging and the Aging and Disability Resource Center.
“Nobody will ever deprive the American people of the right to vote except the American people themselves and the only way they could do this is by not voting.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt www.jocogov.org/thebesttimes •
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• November 2014
Johnson County Area Agency on Aging Paid for by Older Americans Act funding
Medicare enrollment ends Dec. 7
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ollowing is a list of what you may do during the enrollment period ending Dec. 7 (the period began Oct. 15): Change from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan. Change from a Medicare Advantage Plan back to Original Medicare. Switch from one Medicare Advantage Plan to another Medicare Advantage Plan. Switch from a Medicare Advantage Plan that does not offer drug coverage to a Medicare Advantage Plan that offers drug coverage. Switch from a Medicare Advantage Plan that offers drug coverage to a Medicare Advantage Plan that does not offer drug coverage. Join a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan. Switch from one Medicare Prescription
Drug Plan to another Medicare Prescription Drug Plan. • Drop your Medicare prescription drug coverage completely. For detailed information and assistance regarding Medicare options, visit www. medicare.gov. To reach a customer service representative, call 800-633-4227 (877-4862048 TTY). The Johnson County Area Agency on Aging’s Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas (SHICK) program can also advise you regarding options and processes. Just call 913-715-8856.
Mission of the Johnson County Area Agency on Aging
The mission of the Area Agency on to advocate for and in maintaining their dignity through services.The AAA older adults with and economic need and provides a variety of support services
Johnson County Aging (AAA) is assist older adults independence and community-based targets services to the great est social for caregivers.
Eating is so much more fun with friends!
Join old friends and make new ones by lunching at one of the six SENIOR DINING SITES available in Johnson County. The Nutrition Program of the Johnson County Area Agency on Aging, 913-715-8888, serves nutritious meals Monday through Friday at 11:30 a.m. for those 60 and older, and offers fellowship, recreation, and educational programs. The meals are provided through the Older Americans Act. A donation of $3.00 is requested. To reserve a meal, just call the center of your choice by 10:00 a.m. one day in advance. Menus for meals provided through the Nutrition Program are available at www. jocogov.org/hsd (click on AAA, then Nutrition Services). We hope to see you there soon! De Soto Neighborhood Center De Soto Community Center 32905 W. 84th St. • 913-585-1762 Gardner Neighborhood Center Gardner Community Center 128 E. Park • 913-856-3471 Lenexa Neighborhood Center Lenexa Senior Center 13425 Walnut • 913-888-6141 Merriam/Shawnee Neighborhood Center Merriam Community Center 5701 Merriam Drive • 913-677-2048
Kansas Legal Services
Overland Park Neighborhood Center
To schedule an appointment with Kansas Legal Services, contact the center you wish to visit. Be sure to provide the name of the client, not the name of the person making the appointment. Funding for Kansas Legal Services for older adults (60+) is provided through the Older Americans Act and private contributions. Clients are not billed for services, but contributions are gratefully accepted. To apply for Kansas Legal Services, call 913-621-0200 or a central intake line at 800723-6953. Sunset Drive Office Building Thursday, Nov. 13 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. 11811 S. Sunset Drive, Olathe 913-715-8860
Matt Ross Community Center Wednesday, Nov. 19 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. 8101 Marty Street, Overland Park 913-642-6410
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• November 2014
Matt Ross Community Center 8101 Marty St. • 913-648-2949 Spring Hill Neighbors’ Place Spring Hill Civic Center 401 N. Madison • 913-592-3180 CHAMPSS Program Senior dining at select Hy-Vee’s 913-715-8894 Home Plate Nutrition Program Seven frozen meals following hospital discharge 913-715-8810
Johnson County Area Agency on Aging Paid for by Older Americans Act funding
COA honors Dr. Ryan with leadership award By Patricia Burton
The program is offered free of charge to any organization that serves older adults. The curriculum covers eight main r. Patrick Ryan is the recipient of the 2014 Leadertopics: ship in Aging Award given by the Johnson County Commission on Aging (COA). The award is given an- • Effective doctor/patient communication • Rights and responsibilities of patients and doctors nually in honor of volunteers - individuals or organi• Healthy lifestyles zations- who have made outstanding contributions to enhance • Making informed healthcare the quality of life for older adults decisions and their families in Johnson • Medication use and misuse County. • Health information and record Ryan began his 35 year histokeeping ry of volunteerism in the field of • End-of-life issues, and aging with weekly presentations • Dispelling the myths of aging. to senior adults at the first ShepDr. Ryan holds a Doctor herd’s Center in 1980. He served of Pharmacy degree from the as Chairman of the Board of University of Kentucky, and Trustees of the Shepherd’s Center served 33 years on the faculty of from 1988-1990, and was Chairthe UMKC School of Medicine. man of the National Board of During that time, he educated Trustees for Shepherd’s Centers medical and pharmacy students in of America in 1996. geriatrics. Due to his influence, The Commission took spemore physicians are now practiccial note of Dr. Ryan’s leadership Dr. Patrick Ryan received the COA’s 2014 Leadership in ing in the field of geriatric mediAging Award. He is pictured with COA members Patti Rule, role in establishing the program cine. In 2007 he retired from the chair (left), and Patricia Burton (right). “Talking with the Doctor”, oneposition as Emeritus Professor of hour interactive health education Geriatrics, Family Medicine and Clinical Pharmacology. lectures offered to older adults in Johnson County and the “Dr. Ryan has identified one of the most important aspects greater metro area. of a senior’s successful medical care. It begins with the ability The programs began in 1995, and are unique in that Dr. to understand and communicate what is necessary to maintain Ryan and his physician colleagues developed the program with optimal health. He provides a valuable program that improves the patient’s point of view in mind. To date, 400 programs quality of life, as he and his partnering physicians provide have been presented to 10,000 older adults, including preseninsight into the doctor / patient relationship,” Patti Rule, COA tations at senior centers, retirement centers, and civic orgachairman, said. nizations. The physicians who collaborate with Dr. Ryan are
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retired physician volunteers from the John Locke Society, and also live in Johnson County.
“Give thanks for unknown blessings already on their - Native American Saying way.”
- From the staff of the Johnson County Area Agency on Aging, hosts for your local Aging & Disability Resource Center
Patricia Burton is a member of the Johnson County Commission on Aging
Helping older adults to live in the community with independence and dignity. Information & Referral . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 913-715-8861 Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas (SHICK) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 913-715-8856 Volunteer Services line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 913-715-8859
Commission on Aging meetings will be held from 9-10 a.m. the second Wednesday of each month in Room 1070/1075, Sunset Drive Office Building, 11811 S. Sunset Drive, Olathe. The meetings are always open to the public. For more information, call 913-715-8860 or 800-766-3777 TDD. AAA programs are funded by the Older Americans Act and state funds through the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services, Johnson County government, agency matching funds, and individual participant donations. Johnson County government does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, or disability in employment or the provision of services.
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• November 2014
extension connection
Fall fertilizer helps spring growth
By Dennis Patton
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have to admit that November is one of my favorite months. It is the month full of beautiful Kansas City weather, and the anticipation of Thanksgiving and the holiday season. It signals the end of another season, bringing to a close the enjoyment of caring for the landscape. But before we know it there will be the anticipation of another spring’s arrival. November is also the month for one of the last and most important of tasks to complete before Old Man Winter arrives. That is the last application of fertilizer to our cool season bluegrass and tall fescue lawns. The November application is around the timing of the last mowing of the turf. It is usually applied no later than the week before Thanksgiving. The November application is sometimes referred to as a “winterizer.” I personally do not like that term as it does not paint a true picture of the value of a November application. Fertilizer applied at this time does not protect or winterize the lawn but instead feeds the turf in the late fall. This application prepares the turf for spring growth. Maybe it should be called a “springerizer.” Let me explain the importance of this application. It really has two main benefits, and combined pays big dividends for the lawn. The first benefit is that the nutrients in the fertilizer are quickly converted to stored food and energy for the grass plants. These stored food reserves help build up strong roots and crowns, which are necessary for good growth. What makes this application so important, unlike others, is this crucial root development. The November application does not create new shoot growth in the fall. So if you are looking for a quick grass blade response like other applications you will not
see one, at least for now. The second benefit of the November application is what it does for spring’s renewal. As the temperatures start to warm in late February and early March the grass starts to wake up from winter dormancy. Just like breakfast is the most important meal of the day for us, so is the late fall application for spring grass growth. As the grass starts to grow in the late winter or spring it already has the nutrients it needs to quickly green up and start to thicken up in the lawn. Remember, it is this stored food from the fall application that provides this growth. Another important point to remember is that since the food is readily available in the crowns the plant only uses what it needs. The result is very early spring green up without excessive top growth. Why is lack of top growth important, you might ask? It means you get a green lawn but don’t need to mow as often. Spring applied fertilizers have just the opposite effect. Fertilizer applied in March or early April is not converted to stored food and energy for the grass plants to use later. Instead it is quickly converted to top growth. That means, if you like to mow your lawn then apply more spring fertilizer, which will result in excessive growth, but at the expense of the health of the roots and crowns. Research has shown early spring applications actually weaken the health of the plant because it pulls food reserves to help promote the top growth. This top growth gives you a false sense of security. You think the lawn is healthy as you are mowing frequently, but in reality all that mowing is decreasing the turf ’s defenses for whatever summer stress maybe thrown its way in a few short months. The analysis of the November fertilizer is important to achieve the greatest amount of success. Nitrogen, or the first Continued to next page
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• November 2014
F ertilizer in the fall helps plants to grow in spring Continued from page 8 number listed on the bag of three numbers, is key. This application should contain high amounts of nitrogen and little or no phosphorus and potassium. I know some manufacturers still push high phosphorus fertilizers in November. But don’t be fooled by these sometimes called “winterizers.” High phosphorus fertilizer has not been recommended for November application for nearly 30 years. I guess some companies are just slow to change. Look for the first numbers to be 27, 30, or 33, for example. The second
Dear Reader,Post Card Please come and join us… for the 28Thannual celebration of Veterans Day Observance!
When: November 11, 2014
Time: 10 a.m. (parade) 11 a.m. (program) Where: Veterans Memorial Park Center & Pawnee Lane Gardner, Kansas 66030 Questions? Contact (913) 715- 0725
and third numbers should be as close to zero as possible. For example, 33-0-0 or 27-3-3 would be great to use in November. Take advantage of the wonderful November conditions and don’t forget to make that one last application before you get caught up in the Thanksgiving and holiday rush. Your lawn will greatly reward you come spring when we are craving green after a long winter slumber. Dennis Patton, horticulture agent at Johnson County’s K-State Research and Extension Office, can be reached at 913-715-7000 or dennis.patton@jocogov.org.
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L et the leaves fall. Let the leaves fall. Let them pile up. It doesn’t matter. Not when you leave behind the work of taking care of a home and trade it in for getting more out of life. To learn how you can get more out of life, call Kelsie at (913) 780-9916.
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• November 2014
Holiday tips for coping with dementia By Deborah Shouse
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ormally, Thanksgiving was my favorite holiday, a time our family gathered together at my Kansas City home. But that November, my stomach clenched at the thought of our traditional Thursday evening
meal. My mother had Alzheimer’s and the holiday would be different. I felt alone but of course I wasn’t: there were 15 million family/friend caregivers helping the five million Americans who have dementia. I’d been through my initial storm of denial and grief. I felt I’d been coping well with Mom’s diagnosis, focusing on offering my father extra support and trying to flow with Mom’s now spotty memory and personality quirks. But the pre-season sadness invaded me in October and I found myself dreading the alleged festivities. How could we have our usual holiday dinner, take our after dinner walks, play Scrabble and Hearts and Charades without Mom’s participation? How could we enjoy going to movies and plays when Mom was having trouble focusing and sitting still? And, how would Mom react to the situation: would she feel uncomfortable and out of place? Would Dad feel protective and anxious? And more important, what would we have for dessert! Mom was legendary for her chocolate and butterscotch brownies, date crumbs, and bourbon balls. No storebought cookies would compare. As I stewed over the prospect of a depressing Thanksgiving weekend, I remembered the vows I had made: I had promised I would try to stay connected to Mom throughout her Alzheimer’s journey. And I had promised to see the gifts and blessings and fun in the experience. So I began thinking: if the holiday is going to be different, why not concentrate on making it different in a creative and connective way? Here are some ideas I used to make the holiday work for me. • Acknowledge my feelings of loss and grief. I wrote them down and shared them with a few friends. Just expressing myself made me feel stronger.
• List what I would miss most during the holiday season. My list included cooking with Mom, eating her brownies and rum balls. I asked my brother, who’s a terrific baker, to make some of our favorite sweets and I set up a place in the dining room where Mom could sit next to me while I chopped mushrooms and peeled potatoes. • Create an activity to give our holiday a new focus. We created a simple holiday scrapbook called, “The Little Kitchen that Could,” complete with a family photo shoot and a silly script. • Appreciate my blessings. We started our Thanksgiving meal by asking everyone to name one thing he or she was grateful for. I continued my gratitude practice throughout the holiday season, either alone or with others via telephone and social media. • Take extra good care of myself. I treated myself as I would a friend who’d suffered a deep loss. •Set up a lifeline. “I’m worried about melting down,” I told my friend. She urged me to call anytime for encouragement and reassurance. These six steps helped me enjoy my holiday and appreciate my mom just as she was. Our holiday was “different” but it was also wonderful. Deborah Shouse is a writer, speaker, editor and creativity catalyst and the author of Love in the Land of Dementia: Finding Hope in the Caregiver’s Journey.
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• November 2014
Exhibit features ‘What is Modernism?’ By Andy Graham
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e drive by older buildings in Johnson County every day, probably without giving them a second thought or recognizing the architectural significance of their designs. But many of the buildings and residences designed and built after World War II represent a very different approach to architecture that was not seen elsewhere in the region. “Post-war Johnson County was a blank canvas,” said Matt Gilligan, curator of interpretation at the Johnson County Museum. “There was a lot of new building here after World War II, when people were very excited about innovation and new consumer goods. That attitude is evident in much of the architecture from the period.” Starting November 21, the free exhibit “What is Modernism?” opens at the Johnson County Museum. The exhibit explores the Modernist movement that began in post-World War I Europe and eventually spread to the United States, including Johnson County. The exhibit details how modern ideas about architecture and lifestyle took hold locally during the period of 1945-1970, and why the movement manifested itself in the built environment in Johnson County — from homes and churches to schools and office buildings. Jody Searing and her husband Paul, built a house in Prairie Village (featured in the exhibit) in 1966 and chose architect Bruce Goff to design a home with lots of glass, light and an open floor
ESTATE PLANNING:
plan. They’d been living in Kansas City, Mo., where it was difficult and expensive to find a suitable lot, and were drawn to the open and natural spaces of Johnson County. “We wanted to have an original, modern home,” Jody Searing said. “My husband wanted a house that was out-of-the-way and minimal without a lot of doo-dads. It was also important to be surrounded by nature. I really love my house.” After WWII, smooth, straight lines, flat roofs and open floor plans defined this style. Designs relied on building materials such as steel, glass and reinforced concrete. People wanted to own a new home and with the available land Johnson County had to offer, building here was easy and affordable. “People were living in the city, in apartments, and there was a rush to leave the city,” said Anne Jones, curator of collections at the museum. “It was cheaper to buy a new house and people wanted something that looked different.” The “What is Modernism?” exhibit will on exhibit at the Museum, 6305 Lackman Road, Shawnee, through November 21, 2015. The Museum is open Monday – Saturday from 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Admission is free. More details about the exhibit and corresponding educational programs are available by visiting www.jocomuseum. org. Andy Graham is a public information officer at the Johnson County Manager’s Office.
THE COURT WILL
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• November 2014
cover story
Eva Hartwich:
Family flees Holocaust to live in ‘Shanghai Ghetto’
By Gerald Hay
Eva’s aunt and uncle had already established a home and a business. They spent va Hartwich of Leawood survived the Holocaust more about three weeks on a ship, crowded than seven decades ago by fleeing Nazi Germany and with other Jewish families who had been finding refuge in a Shanghai Ghetto. able to gather the money to leave. The She and her family lived in before, during, and ship sailed south from Europe and around after World War II. They were among approximately 18,000 the bottom of Africa to get to China, to 20,000 Jewish people who fled Europe in the late 1930s for but Shanghai was one of the only places Shanghai. The Japanese had overrun China but permitted a Jewish people could go without a visa or Jewish enclave in one square mile of the Hongkou District of passport. Shanghai, and allowed life to go on – almost normally. “There were Jews from all over EuHartwich, 93, is one of only a handful of residents living rope. They all settled together,” she said. in metropolitan Kansas City who are among the survivors of Area for stateless refugees the Shanghai Ghetto, one of the lesser-known safe havens for European In Shanghai, the family was forJews during WWII. tunate to have two bedrooms – one for When she arrived in China, she Eva and her mother, the other for her was 18. The family included her sister and husband. In 1943, the Japanese mother and 20-year-old sister along declared a “designated area for stateless with her husband. They lived in a refugees,” creating what was soon called small apartment with one bathroom, the Shanghai Ghetto where she met and but no running water and trying to married Werner. sleep with infestations of bedbugs. Their marriage license was written But for them during WWII, this was in Chinese and hangs from a bedroom in the good life and leaving Germany her small apartment. Their ketubah was was about survival. done in traditional Hebrew. The wedding Some distant family members was performed by a rabbi. and friends who could not, or did Before arriving in Shanghai, Werner not, flee Europe in the late 1930s and and his family lived in the town of Kuesearly 1940s were not as fortunate. trin, located near Berlin, where his family They ended up being persecuted and terrorized by the Nazi or ended up in had a grain business. On Kristallnacht, he concentration camps. and his nephew were among the Jewish The marriage license for Eva Hartwich, now “Some lived; some died,” Eva said. men taken to the Sachenhausen Concen93, was written in Chinese. A resident of Brookdale Senior tration Camp, north of Berlin. Living in Leawood, Hartwich was born in Hanover, GermaThe nephew, who was in his late teens, was released about three ny where she lived with her family. After suffering through weeks later, leaving Germany on what was called the Kindertransport increasing levels of persecution throughout the 1930s, her to England. He was the lone survivor of his immediate family and family chose to leave Germany after Kristallnacht (The Night of eventually came to America. Werner was not released until January Broken Glass). The name comes from the shards of broken glass that 1939 after the family promised to leave Germany at once. littered the streets after Jewish-owned stores, buildings, and synaLife was hard in China, she said, but at least the family was togogues had their windows smashed on November 9-10, 1938. gether. Jewish children in the Shanghai Ghetto were allowed to attend Jewish businesses were vandalized, and homes ransacked and school. The community set up a hospital and synagogue where bar burned. At least 100 Jews were murdered and 30,000 Jewish men were imprisoned in concentration camps. Kristallnacht ended the illu- mitzvahs and Jewish weddings were permitted. “It was like a city to itself,” Eva said. “We took care of our own.” sion that normal Jewish life in Germany and Austria was still possible. Life under Japanese rule was harsh, but not nearly as deadly as The event is often referred to as the beginning of the Final Solution the daily terror against Jewish people in their homeland of Germany. and the Holocaust. The family left Germany in February 1939 for Shanghai where Continued to next page
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Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum exhibit now showing
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traveling exhibit from the Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum will be on display at the Jewish Community Campus, 5801 West 115th Street, Overland Park, until Tuesday, November 11. The Shanghai Jewish Refugees Museum was established in 2007 by the Shanghai Hongkou District govern-
ment to commemorate the Jewish refugees who found refuge in Shanghai during World War II and the Holocaust. The exhibit consists primarily of mounted panels, each telling the story of an individual or group of Jewish refugees in Shanghai. It also includes videos and replicas of artifacts.
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• November 2014
cover story
Family flees Holocaust to live in ‘Shanghai Ghetto’ Continued from page 12 The conditions in the Shanghai Ghetto were squalid and unsanitary. Many of the refugees lived in crowded, dilapidated housing and small apartments off alleyways. They often lacked modern toilets, and every morning buckets of “night soil” were emptied and carted away by Chinese workers. There were constant shortages of food, clothing, and medicine. The Hartwiches, who were fortunate to have brought a few household belongings with them, sold their possessions to help make ends meet. “We had no money, but had a good time,” she said. No walls and no death camps Jewish refugees had to obtain a permit to go outside the ghetto. Having no permits or any run-ins with the Japanese would result in being put in jail often without notification to the family and often for days and weeks. Yet, no walls were built to contain the Jewish population at Shanghai. There were no death camps. Toward the end of the war American bombers soared overhead, trying to take out Japanese installations. The buildings in the Shanghai Ghetto had no basements to go down in and feel safe during the air raids that started in 1944. Hartwich said family members just had to keep their fingers crossed, hoping they wouldn’t be hit. “We lived in fear, but we survived,” she said. The refugees, however, were isolated from the world. Without radios, newspapers, or letters, she said the Jewish families in the Shanghai Ghetto were unaware about what was happening in their homeland during the war. “We didn’t know what was going on in Germany,” she said, adding the Jewish refugees found out about the hardships and brutality after the war ended in 1945. “It was unbelievable and horrendous. People couldn’t believe what they heard. It was bad for us, but it could have been so much worse.” No touring Auschwitz Hartwich went back to Germany once after the war, visiting her former home in Hanover and other parts of Europe. Her travels included an opportunity to tour the Auschwitz Concentration Camp, but she turned it down. “I didn’t want to go,” she said in a firm voice. Her family was in Shanghai when the war ended and the Americans set up an army base, helping Jewish refugees to find new homes. Like many of the ghetto survivors, relocation divided many families in different parts of the world. The Hartwiches immigrated to the United States in 1947. She has not returned to Shanghai. Her husband’s mother wanted to come to America with the rest of the family, but she was Polish. The American quota for Polish immigrants had been filled, so she chose to live in Israel. Her older sister and husband, along with her mother, settled in New York City. Eva, Werner, who died in 2011, and their young son, who was born in Shanghai in 1946, initially landed in San Francisco, but weren’t allowed to stay. One option was to go to Minnesota, but it was ruled out because of its cold weather. So, they came to Kansas City in the summer heat of August. Eva told her husband not to unpack the bags. “I said I’m not going to stay here. It’s too hot,” she said with a laugh. “Well, I’m still here.”
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• November 2014
Ages of Excellence features sports author
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ward-winning sports writer and author Rick Reilly will be the guest speaker at Village Shalom’s sixth annual Ages of Excellence Celebration on Thursday evening, Nov. 20. The event will begin at 7:30 p.m. at the Overland Park Convention Center, 6000 College Blvd. Proceeds from the Ages of Excellence Celebration help to provide financial assistance to senior adults who rely on Village Shalom for vital programs and services. Reilly has been called “the closest thing sports writing ever had to a rock star” by USA Today. He gained an ardent following with his lighthearted
Hotline rings with holiday food advice
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he holidays can be a wonderful time for creating warm, family traditions. But if you’re not careful, you can end up creating not-so-fond memories of foodborne illness. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated 76 million cases of foodborne disease occur each year in the United States. In order to make sure your holiday is a safe one, the Johnson County K-State Research and Extension Office is a resource for food safety, holiday cooking and baking. You can contact the Holiday Hotline by phone at 913-7157070 or through email at food. help@jocogov.org. (County offices are closed November 27 and 28.) The Extension staff and Master Food Volunteers are professionally trained in the areas of food science, food safety, food preparation, and food preservation. The annual Holiday Hotline is provided as a free service to the community.
yet emotionally engaging “Life of Reilly” column, which ran in Sports Illustrated for 23 years. He is a member of the National Sportswriters and Sportscasters Hall of Fame, and has been named National Sportswriter of the Year 11 times throughout his career spanning more than three decades. He has authored 11 books. The evening will include a buffet dinner for event sponsors beginning at 6 p.m., followed by the presentation. A champagne dessert reception will conclude the evening. Tickets are $100 for presentation and dessert reception and $250 if including dinner. More information is available by calling 913-266-8469.
New names. Familiar faces. Our new names will reflect our relationship with Brookdale®, our parent company and the nation’s leading provider of senior living accommodations and related services. But some things aren’t changing. Inside you will find the experienced staff that has partnered with our residents and families so well for so long. Come visit soon and get acquainted with our special blend of service and hospitality. Brookdale® Overland Park 119th Independent Living (913) 345-9339
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• November 2014
Honoring All Who Served
Veterans Day event features parade, program in Gardner By Gerald Hay
“We’d like to have people along the route to cheer on the veterans. They deserve it,” Eilert said. parade honoring all veterans from all wars, a flying The parade should reach Veterans Memorial Park by 10:30 helicopter, patriotic music, and a keynote speech a.m. Gardner police will provide traffic control, including by Lt. Col. Carla F. Hale of Shawnee, a veteran of temporary closing of connecting residential streets, while the Operation Iraqi Freedom, will highlight the 28th parade is in progress. Annual Johnson County Programs begins Veterans Day Observance at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, November 11, The Veterans Day proin Gardner. gram begins at 11 a.m. at The public event will the memorial park. celebrate the 60th anniFeature speaker will versary of the creation of be Hale, commander of the an annual Veterans Day by Kansas National Guard’s President Dwight Eisen169th Combat Sustainment hower and Congress in Support Battalion at Lone 1954. Prior to that, it was Elm Park, 21151 W. 167th, called Armistice Day to Olathe. Her military cacommemorate the signing reer spans almost 28 years of the Armistice Treaty, including deployments to which ended World War I. Bosnia-Herzegovina and to The armistice was signed Kuwait in support of Operaat 11 a.m. on Nov. 11, 1918 tion Iraqi Freedom. – the 11th hour of the 11th Eilert will emcee the Veterans Memorial Park is located at Center Street and Pawday of the 11th month and is program. nee Lane in Gardner. the traditional date for both Gold Star families who Veterans and Armistice Day celebrations, past and present. have lost a loved one in military service in World War II, KoParade starts at 10 a.m. rea, the Vietnam War, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Working in partnership with Gardner City Hall, Gardner Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan will be special guests at the Police Department, Johnson County Sheriff ’s Office, along Veterans Day observance. with local veteran organizations and school districts, the paProgram activities rade will start at 10 a.m. at ITW Labels, 147 West Cherokee. Tentative plans include: The parade will head east on Cherokee Drive (183rd Street) • Passover by helicopter, weather permitting, to help kick and then north on Center Street, ending at Veterans Memorial off the program; Park at the southwest corner of South Center Street at Pawnee • Patriotic music by the Olathe South High School Band Lane, south of downtown Gardner. under the direction of Chad Coughlin; “All local veterans are invited to march in the parade and • Patriotic songs by the Spring Hill Middle School Select be a part of the countywide recognition— regardless of whethChoir under the direction of James Scroggins; er they saw combat duty,” Ed Eilert, chairman of the Johnson • Presentation of colors by the Johnson County Sheriff ’s County Board of Commissioners, said. “This is an opportunity Color Guard; for the public to ‘welcome home’ our veterans and express our • Rifle salute, bagpiper, and playing of “Echo Taps;” gratitude.” • Placement of memorial wreaths by members of local vetParade participants include the Olathe South High School erans organizations; band, students and staff from the Kansas School for the Deaf, • Scores of American flags; motorcycles, color guards, and veteran organizations. It is ex• Patriot Guard and American Legion Riders; and, pected tol include veterans, ranging from World War II, Korea • Display by the Gardner Historical Museum. and Vietnam, to the War on Terrorism. Handicapped parking will be available at Veterans MemoA staging area for the parade will take place from 8:30 to rial Park. General parking will be permitted along residential 9:45 a.m. on the parking lot of ITW Labels. The route spans streets and at Calvary Southern Baptist Church located south about one-half mile. of the park. The veterans will be placed in groups corresponding to The offices of Johnson County Government and most city their military experience. World War II veterans will march governments, including Gardner, will be closed Tuesday, Notogether, as will those who served in the Korean, Vietnam, vember 11, in observance of Veterans Day. More information Desert Storm, Iraq and Afghanistan wars. is available by calling the Johnson County Manager’s Office Organizers are hoping for both a good turnout and good at 913-715-0725 or Gardner City Hall at 913-856-7535. weather.
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• November 2014
Honoring All Who Served
Vets seeking long-term care face choices By Gene Meyer
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his Veterans Day, many who have served our country have one more potentially scary minefield to cross – finding affordable long-term care, either for themselves or an ailing spouse. Few will have any choice. Of every 1,000 males older than 65 and married, 302 of us will need longterm care services of some kind, Kansas Insurance Commissioner Sandy Praeger wrote recently. Among women, the figure is an even higher 555. The care won’t be cheap. Average annual costs for a semi-private nursing home stay in Kansas currently run about $58,400 a year; costs for a private room are nearer $63,875. Either is cheaper than national average, but still a potential jolt, even with long-term care coverage or a lot of savings. Veterans older than 65, who served during any of five officially designated wartime periods from World War I to now, and their spouses, may be eligible for long-term-care financial help offered by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs through what are called Aid and Attendance pension benefits. The payments are not lavish. Maximum benefits run between $13,560 and $33,468 annually depending on an applicant’s family circumstances and finances. That is less than three-fifths of what mid-range, semi-private care might cost. But, “that’s still enough to cover a lot of necessary, basic costs,” said Bill Shippey, a service officer with the Veterans of Foreign Wars, which provides free help to veterans and their families seeking VA benefits. “It just won’t pay your credit cards or utility costs, too.” Veterans or their spouses can apply
for the benefits for free at any VA office or online through the department’s website, www.va.gov. Realistically, however, it often is easier and more successful to go through VFW or other service organizations approved by VA to provide applicants with free help navigating the red tape, said Ken
Herring, an attorney with the Elder & Disability Law Firm, an Overland Park specialist in Medicaid and long-term care planning. Veterans who remember red tape they encountered on active duty probably will not be shocked to learn something similar sticks to VA applications, too. “The income and net worth standards you must meet to qualify are especially complicated, because those aren’t specifically published,” Herring said. “They vary with your age and your situation.” “Calculating incomes and assets for VA purposes is something like calculating them for Medicaid, the long-term care provider for all low-income applicants,” Herring said. You start by listing everything, then stripping out exemptions, such as cars, residences, and some potential insurance proceeds. Then, for the VA benefits, you start adding up medical costs and find the benefit amounts by comparing your income, your expenses, and what VA deems to be a minimally appropriate income for your circumstances. “But there are major differences, too. VA can take a lot longer to approve your claim – nine to 12 months, compared to about www.jocogov.org/thebesttimes •
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45 days for Medicaid,” Herring said. “And, under current law – and we must emphasize, current law – there is no penalty for giving away your assets to a family member to qualify for the VA pension as there is for Medicaid.” No one knows when that seeming loophole might be closed, however. And, in any case, using it can cause some real complications if you are trying to coordinate your VA application with Medicaid, he said. The important thing to remember when you start these calculations is to remember your original primary goal, Herring said. “What we are trying to do here is to plan prudently to protect as many of our assets as possible,” he said. “Do that, and good Medicaid and VA planning will follow.”
Gene Meyer, a Fairway resident, is a former staff reporter at The Wall Street Journal and The Kansas City Star.
to join the Korean War Veterans Association. We meet at 7 p.m. the first Monday of each month at the VFW Hall, 9550 Pflumm Road, Lenexa, KS. If you served in any branch of the Armed Forces anytime between 06/25/50 and 01/31/55 you’re eligible to become a member. Come join your Comrades in Arms, it’s a rewarding experience! Contact Tom Stevens (913) 696-0447 or e-mail: stevenst@swbell.net
• November 2014
T o those who made home what it is, we say thanks.
We know that the freedoms we celebrate — friendships, a sense of belonging and a meaningful life — are only possible because of the sacrifices you made for our country. Thank you. You were there when we needed you. We hope we can be there when you need us. Our continuum of care campus offers many retirement options, including villas, apartments, assisted living and shortterm rehabilitation. This means you’ll have peace of mind knowing that whatever the future brings, you’ll never have to leave behind the life you’ve created and the friends you’ve made.
Cedar Lake Village (913) 780-9916 Hoeger House (913) 397-2900
The Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan Society and Owner provides housing and services to qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, national origin or other protected statuses according to federal, state and local laws. All faiths or beliefs are welcome. Copyright © 2011 The Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan Society. All rights reserved. 12-G1245
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• November 2014
Honoring All Who Served
V .A. Office provides assistance to veterans
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he Kansas Commission on Veterans’ Affairs (KCVA) KCVA assistance includes help with understanding and helps Kansas veterans and their families improve the applying for services such as: quality of their lives. • VA health care benefits • VA burial benefits From helping veterans to file claims for educa• VA home loan certificate tion, medical or other benefits, to assisting them in obtaining • VA service connected disability compensation benefits earned medals and military awards, KCVA offers a wide array • VA non-service connected pension benefits of available programs and services provided by a grateful • VA spouse and dependent benefits nation and state. • VA surviving spouse benefits To help obtain these benefits, the KCVA has Veteran Ser• Applying for lost or destroyed military separation/disvice Representatives (VSRs) available in strategic locations charge documents across Kansas or through grants provided to National Service Some VA benefits are financially based, meaning the Organizations, such as the American Legion and Veterans of veteran or his surviving spouse would Foreign War who offer services freehave to be in need of financial assisof-charge to assist veterans and their tance to qualify, and then it may take families with applying for benefits. up to a year for VA to reach a decision ervice representatives from the KCVA has an office in Johnson on an award. Johnson County office of the County at 10107 W. 105th Street, “We take great pride in our role as KCVA are available by appointment Suite B, Overland Park, where there advocates for Kansas veterans, their through the month at locations are two Veteran Service representafamilies, and survivors, KCVA Directives, Glenda Pavey and Brian Kro- around Johnson County, including: tor of Veteran Services Wayne Bollig newitter, who provide information American Legion Post No. 153 said. and assistance for veterans and their 410 East Dennis, Olathe “Kansas has a long and well-esfamilies, and assist eligible veterans tablished history of respect for those • Second Monday from 9 a.m. to noon to apply for Department of Veterans’ who have served our state and nation • Third Tuesday at 2 p.m. Affairs (VA) benefits. with courage, dedication, and honor.” The mission of the KCVA is to For more information see www. • First Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. provide Kansas veterans, their relava.gov or www.kcva.ks.gov and feel free Johnson County Community College, tives, and other eligible dependents to contact the office for an appointment at 12345 College Blvd., Overland Park with information, advice, direction, 913-371-5968. and assistance through the coorThe Overland Park office also travels • Second Tuesday from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. dination of programs and services to Wyandotte and Leavenworth Counties Workforce Partnership Center, in the fields of education, health, at the National Guard Armory in Kansas 9221 Quivira Road, Overland Park City, Kan. every Thursday, at the Workforce vocational guidance and placement, Partnership Center by appointment, and at and economic security. KCVA has • Last Tuesday from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. the Leavenworth Public Library on the third field offices throughout Kansas, with Tuesday from 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. headquarters in Topeka.
Monthly Itinerary
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Aberdeen Village proudly recognizes all of its resident veterans for their military service in defending our great nation. Two of our many resident heroes are shown in the photo (Bob Butler and Dick Griffith). 17500 West 119th St. Olathe, Kansas ● 66061 (913) ● 599 ● 6100 www.aberdeenvillage.com Bob Butler (left) & Dick Griffith (right)
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• November 2014
Thank you to all the veterans
at our communities Park Meadows Senior Living has 25 Army Vets, 25 Navy Vets, 14 Air Force Vets, 3 Army/Air Force Vets, and 3 Marine Corps Vets
913-871-3725
5901 West 107th Street Overland Park, KS 66207 ParkMeadowsSeniorLiving.com Independent Living | Assisted Living Transitional Memory Care | Memory Care
Shawnee Hills Senior Living has 18 Army Vets, 8 Navy Vets, 6 Air Force Vets, 2 Army/Air Force Vets, and 3 Marine Corps Vets
913-871-3743
6335 Maurer Road Shawnee, KS 66217 ShawneeHillsSeniorLiving.com Independent Living www.jocogov.org/thebesttimes •
SPECTRUM RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES
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• November 2014
Honoring All Who Served
LOSS takes toll among older veterans By Elaine Good
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amuel’s brother found him sitting up late at night, the television turned off, holding his head in his hands. He had difficulty sleeping, his stomach felt queasy, he suffered frequent headaches and he often had bad dreams. Like hundreds of thousands of other men, Samuel had served in World War II. When it was over, he was discharged, returned home, married his waiting sweetheart, and started a family. Inundated with war slogans (“Loose lips sink ships,” “if you tell where he’s going he may never get there”) no one asked about his war experiences, or offered help with adjusting to life back home. He didn’t tell anyone, not even his wife or children, what he had seen and experienced during the war. Neither did his friends, at least the ones that returned. They never talked about the ones who didn’t come back. For the most part, they locked all those thoughts and feelings up and threw away the key. The problem is, it appears there is more than one key. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is the term psychiatrists use to describe symptoms that represent a normal response to life-threatening, out-of-the-ordinary experiences. It includes periods of heightened anxiety, an exaggerated startle response, nightmares, flashbacks, hypervigilance and increased irritability. Commonly known as “shell shock” in World War I and “combat fatigue” in World War II, it is a diagnosis most recently associated with Vietnam veterans and soldiers returning from wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. But in the mid-1940s, little consideration was given to understanding and treating the impact of war on its survivors. Today, we are learning from veterans of WWII, Korea, and Vietnam that Post-Traumatic symptoms, which may lay dormant for years, can be triggered late in life. Today, we are seeing men who created strong families, built highly successful careers, and lived decades of their lives never speaking of their war experiences begin to show symptoms of distress and, if given a safe environment and a listening ear begin, often for the first time, to share those experiences. In fact, it is such a common pattern that there’s even a name for it now: Late Onset Stress Symptomology, or LOSS. The U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, in its online National Center for PTSD, says that LOSS differs from PTSD in that it appears to be closely related to the aging process. They note that people with LOSS live most of their lives quite well. They go to work, experience strong marriages, hold solid careers, and spend time with their families and friends. Gradually, they begin to confront normal, age-related changes, such as retirement; the loss of spouses, friends, and loved ones; and
the onset of health problems. As individuals begin to experience disability, illness, and bereavement, the sense of vulnerability and the loss of control they experienced in combat can re-emerge. Hospitals and nursing homes (people in uniform, intercom announcements, semi-authoritarian routines and structure) and their associated terminology (e.g., “blowing up” a mattress) can trigger old fears. Some research suggests the onset of dementia can dim short-term memories while sharpening long-term memories to nearly the same degree of vividness they originally held. Veterans who for decades maintained busy and active lives tightly connected to others may turn inward more often and more readily as their physical stamina decreases. From a psychological point of view, one of the developmental tasks of our later years is to put our lives in perspective, put everything in order, and create a sense of balance and meaning, and in this regard re-visiting war memories is an integral part of understanding ourselves and coming to terms with our lives. Others think that as the brain ages, the part of the brain called the hippocampus, which is considered the seat of emotions, may begin to deteriorate and long lockedaway feelings may sharpen. How can I help a WWII or Korean War veteran who may have PTSD or LOSS? • First, help by being a good listener, or by finding a friend or counselor who can listen fully and supportively. • Validate their experiences and feelings, and help them understand they aren’t alone. • Talk with them about their struggle. • Encourage them to request services through the VA Medical Center, a local veteran center, or to join a veteran’s group. • Learn about specialized therapies available through VA facilities. These can include education for veterans and their families, in-depth psychological assessment, medications to help with sleep, bad memories, anxiety or depression; stress and anger management groups; and groups designed specifically for older veterans. Though it appears there are many paths to understanding why this occurs, research remains in a very early stage. In this sense, WWII and Korean War veterans haven’t yet stopped serving their country, even while coping with war-related psychological distress in their later years. Indeed, they are giving us a wealth of data and knowledge for working with Vietnam veterans, many of whom are now in their 60s.
Elaine Good, LSCSW, is a mental health clinician at the Johnson County Mental Health Center.
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• November 2014
Medicare plans no changes to Part B premiums
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he U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has announced that next year’s standard Medicare Part B monthly premium and deductible will remain the same as the last two years. Medicare Part B covers physicians’ services, outpatient hospital services, certain home health services, durable medical equipment, and other items. For the approximately 49 million Americans enrolled in Medicare Part B, premiums and deductibles will remain unchanged in 2015 at $104.90 and $147, respectively. According to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, the small number of beneficiaries who pay Medicare Part A monthly premiums, their monthly bill will drop $19 in 2015 to $407. Medicare Part A covers inpatient hospital, skilled nursing facility, and some home health care services. Although about 99 percent of Medicare beneficiaries do not pay a Part A premium since they have at least 40 quarters of Medicare-covered employment, enrollees age 65 and over and certain persons with disabilities who have fewer than 30 quarters of coverage, pay a monthly premium in order to receive coverage under Part A. Beneficiaries who have between 30 and 39 quarters of coverage may buy into Part A at a reduced monthly premium rate, which is $224 for 2015, a decrease of $10 from 2014. The Medicare Part A deductible that beneficiaries pay when admitted to the hospital will be $1,260 in 2015, an increase of $44 from this year’s $1,216 deductible. The Part A deductible covers beneficiaries’ share of costs for the first 60 days of Medicare-covered inpatient hospital care in a benefit period. Beneficiaries must pay an additional $315 per day for days 61 through 90 in 2015, and $630 per day for hospital stays beyond the 90th day. For beneficiaries in skilled nursing facilities, the daily co-insurance for days 21 through 100 in a benefit period will be $157.50 in 2015, compared to $152 in 2014. More information is available at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) and, for hearing and speech impaired, at TTY/TDD: 1-877-486-2048.
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17500 West 119th Street Olathe, KS 66061 913-599-6100 AberdeenVillage.com A proud member of Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America, a not-for- profit leader in residential living and senior care for 65 years. Discover how Aberdeen Village is the perfect fit for you now and in the future. Call us at 913-599-6100 to schedule your personal visit.
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• November 2014
to your good health
Too much of a good thing! ‘Healthy foods’ can be detrimental to a diet
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By Lisa Taranto Butler
s much as Americans get bashed for belligerent eating habits, many of us are living a fairly healthy lifestyle by making wise food choices – or so we think. Some of the seemingly healthy foods we are noshing can have a negative effect on our diet. As the holiday season sets upon us, we must be extra diligent to keep from gaining extra weight we don’t need. But even nutrition-minded eaters can sabotage their good intentions. Some of our best habits may make us eat more calories than we realize. How do we prevent weight gain from eating “good-for-you” foods? Here are some easy tips that don’t have to have you tipping the scale. Cereal You would think a tasty bowl of cereal wouldn’t break the bank in empty calories, but watch out. Dry cereal is basically fast digesting carbohydrates, so you end up hungry again before you put the milk away. To keep you feeling fuller longer, add lean protein to your
breakfast like non-fat Greek yogurt for milk. And don’t eat a swimming pool bowl of cereal! Measure out one serving (about 3/4 cup) and add a few berries or other fruit for a filling breakfast. Energy and Protein Bars Packaged so neatly, protein and energy bars can be really convenient when there’s just no time to make fresh food. But if you tend to eat one mid-morning and another for an energy punch in the
afternoon, you could be packing on the calories, not to mention fueling your body with processed food. Save energy bars when you absolutely don’t have time to eat a healthy meal that you make yourself. If you need a bar to munch on in between meals, look for one under 200 calories. Sports Drinks This one is important. Unless you are working out vigorously – and that doesn’t include a 30-minute walk or easy bike ride – you don’t need to load your body with sports drinks. Energy and sports drinks are full of extra calories and sodium, and we can get all the hydration we need from plain old water. There are times that call for a good-tasting and convenient energy drink, however, like when you are working out intensely for an hour or more, sweating profusely or running a 10K. To add more flavor to your H20, try filling a pitcher with water, mint, berries, grapefruit and cucumber. Let the flavors blend overnight and you have a cleansing, tasty water that looks inviting in your refrigerator! Nuts and Nut Butters We continually hear how nuts are so nourishing – and they are, but they are Continued to next page
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• November 2014
Healthy foods may become detrimental
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also laden with calories. While a handful of nuts can deliver heart-healthy fats, a few handfuls can be detrimental to your diet – and so can a few spoonfuls of peanut butter. So if you are sprinkling nuts on salads as well as snacking on almond butter during the day, the calories add up quickly. Keep nut portions to no more than two ounces per day. Count out the exact amount and place in a small plastic baggy or keep an emergency stash in an emptied Altoids® tin in your desk or purse. It holds just the right amount for an afternoon snack. Granola and Trail Mix The good-for-you grains and cholesterol-lowering nuts in granola and trail mix are healthy, but fattening. Store bought versions of both of these “health” foods need to take a hike, since even the low-fat varieties pack on the pounds. Scour the Internet and make your own homemade, low fat recipe that you can portion individually – so much healthier and cheaper too. Organic Foods Most organic meat and produce are better for the environment and for our bodies, but just because the label on veggie chips says organic doesn’t mean it is good for you. The calories in organic goods may contain more natural ingredients, but a calorie is the same no matter how it is packaged. Choose organic foods wisely and avoid “indulgences.” Even healthy foods have their confines, and some may not even be healthy at all. A good rule of thumb is to abide by the 80/20 rule. Eat as healthy as you can 80 percent of the time and 20 percent of the time, indulge a bit. Instead of assuming a food is good for you, size it up for yourself. Read the label, eat small portions and consider a treat for what it is ... a treat. Lisa Taranto Butler is triple-certified by the American Council on Exercise as a personal trainer, lifestyle, and weight management coach, and group fitness instructor. She is the owner of FitChix KC in Leawood.
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• November 2014
Life expectancy hits new high at 78.8 years By Gerald Hay
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s major diseases become a little less lethal, children and grandchildren will have an American life expectancy that has reached a new high. According to a new report from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention, a baby born in the U.S. in 2012 can expect to live 78.8 years on average — or just over a month longer than a baby born the previous year. As usual, the study found women can expect to live longer: 81.2 years, compared to 76.4 years for men. “Although changes in mortality are relatively small from one year to the next, long-term trends show the apparent progress in reducing mortality,” the CDC said in its just-released report. The overall death rate fell by 1.1 percent. The top 10 causes of death in the United States are identical to those between 2011 and 2012, including: heart disease, cancer, chronic lower respiratory diseases, stroke, unintentional injuries, Alzhei-
mer’s disease, diabetes, influenza and pneumonia, kidney disease, and suicide. The number of Americans succumbing to eight of those 10 leading causes of death “decreased significantly,” the National Center for Health Statistics found. The average life expectancy for a person who was 65 years old in 2012 is 19.3 years – 20.5 years for women and 17.9 years for men. The difference in life expectancy at 65 years between males and females increased 0.1 year from 2.5 years in 2011 to 2.6 years in 2012. Mortality over the years has shown steady improvement for Americans. Someone born in 1930 had Chart/CDC an average life expectancy of 59.7 years. A decade later, it was 62.9 years. A person born in 1950 was expected to live for 68.2 years and 69.7 years if the birth year occurred in 1960. The average life expectancy first topped the 70th year milestone in 1970 with an expectation of living 70.8 years from birth to death.
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• November 2014
Museum sites deck the halls
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is the season at Johnson County Museum. Two popular holiday exhibits at the museum sites will open Nov. 29 and run through Jan. 3, 2015, including: A Very Fifties Christmas • Details: The 1950s All-Electric House is decorated for the holidays! Rock around an aluminum Christmas tree on the guided tour and make a special holiday memento. • Times: 1 to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Extended holiday hours 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays. • Fee: $2 adults/$1 children 12 and under. • Location: The 1950s All-Electric House,
6305 Lackman Road, Shawnee. • More information: 913-715-2550
Christmas at Lanesfield • Details: Discover what Christmas meant to school children in rural Kansas at the turn of the 20th Century. The restored one-room schoolhouse will be decorated for a 1904 Christmas. Join in on the festivities and make a Christmas ornament. • Time: 1 to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday. • Fee: Free • Location: Lanesfield School Historic Site, 18745 S. Dillie Road, Edgerton. • More information: 913-893-6645.
November includes two bingo games
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wo themed bingo sessions at two locations are being planned during November by the 50 Plus Department of the Johnson County Park and Recreation District. “America” is the theme for a bingo session which will take place on Nov. 4 at the New Century Fieldhouse, 551 New Century Parkway, near Gardner. “Kansas City” is the theme for a session which will take place on Nov. 19 at the Matt Ross Community Center, 8101 Marty Street, Overland Park. Each session will begin at 1:30 p.m. and will feature a dozen games of bingo, as well as food, prizes, and fun. The cost for each twohour program is $5 per person for Johnson County residents or $6 for nonresidents. Advance registration is required by calling 913-8313359. Participants can pay in advance or at the door. www.jocogov.org/thebesttimes •
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• November 2014
to your good health
Dealing with the winter blues broccoli, lettuce), okra, asparagus, fruits (bananas, melons, y November, the days lemons), legumes, mushrooms, ost SAD symptoms stem from daily body rhythms that have are getting noticeably orange juice and tomato juice. gone out-of-sync with the sun. They include: shorter and the tempera• Caffeine really can perk o Tiredness and loss of energy tures markedly cooler. you up, acting as an anti-depreso An increased need for sleep The end of daylight saving sant; too much, however, can o Craving of carbohydrates time in early November can pack cause anxiety in some people. o Weight gain a wallop for those sensitive to the • Try to remain active, o Withdrawal – general disinterest in socializing changing seasonal light. By winter, which can be really hard during o An overall sense of hopelessness, unhappiness and/or it can be a really hard time for folks. irritability the winter months. Cold winds The shorter days and frigid make us want to stay inside, but temps can often leave many feeling getting out a couple of times a week is often worth the hassle. isolated and sad. Some may think it’s just the cold affecting our Instead of walking around your neighborhood, drive (if it’s safe) moods, but research from the National Institute of Mental Health to a nearby mall and walk in there. shows that winter actually has a chemical effect on our bodies that • Spend time doing enjoyable activities with positive and upbeat may produce negative emotions. people. Look for volunteer opportunities at a local charity, food Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is depression that occurs during a certain time of the year, generally in late fall or winter. SAD bank, your church, or at your local Cooperative Extension office. isn’t just a case of the “blues” — it’s a cyclical pattern of depression It’s often said helping others is the best way to help ourselves. during winter months, with improvement during other times of the • Limit your consumption of sweets. The spikes and dips in our year. blood sugar from eating sweet treats can negatively impact our There are no biological tests for SAD. Health care professionals moods. If you must indulge, do so in moderation and opt for a generally rule out other causes by performing tests and analyzing healthy option like cocoa (see recipe on page 27) which contains blood. beneficial antioxidants and a small amount of fiber. Here are some suggestions that may help improve SAD symp• Avoid the use of alcohol and illegal drugs which can make SAD toms: worse. They can also impair one’s judgment when making deci• Get more sunlight. Ways to do this are enjoying the outdoors sions and dealing with other people. during sun hours and, when indoors, having a window near where • If needed, seek the advice of health care professionals who may one sits or works during the sunny part of the day. prescribe anti-depressants or specialized treatments. • Eat healthfully and regularly. Eating a healthy breakfast and occa If you find your mood changing with the seasons, knowing sional healthy snacks helps stabilize your blood sugar throughout you are not alone is half the battle. By taking steps now you can the day, avoiding anxiety-producing blood sugar drops. prepare for what’s ahead and combat the effects of the bleak • Foods high in complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains, can mid-winter, when frosty winds moan. increase serotonin levels and help keep you calm. Protein can Crystal Futrell, Johnson County Extension Agent in Family and Conboost alertness, as the body breaks it down into amino acids that serve as transmitters. Get your daily dose of folate. Good sources sumer Sciences, can be reached at 913-715-7000 or crystal.futrell@ jocogov.org. include fortified cereals, baked goods, leafy vegetables (spinach,
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By Crystal Futrell
Do changing seasons make you SAD?
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• November 2014
library connection
It’s time to write your story! By Helen Hokanson
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ast month, Barbara Bartocci asked readers, “Is it time to write your story?” I suspect many of us thought, “Yes! Yes, it is time to write my story!” And then we didn’t. The month got away from us and we haven’t even begun. Don’t worry. Johnson County Library is here to help. And November is the perfect time to get started. We’re all settling in for the winter. Long mornings and cozy nights can be quite conducive to cuddling up with a pen and notebook. Want to focus on your own story? Try the Memoir Writing Group at Corinth Neighborhood Library, 8100 Mission Road, Prairie Village, at 2 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month. Does fiction writing appeal? The Creative Writing Group at Central Resource Library, 9875 West 87th Street, Overland Park, is working through the exercises in “The 3 a.m. Epiphany: Uncommon Writing Exercises that Transform Your Fiction” by Brian Kitely. The group meets at 7 p.m. on the first and third Thursdays of each month to critique the exercises and on the second, fourth – and the fifth when it occurs in the calendar – Thursdays for prompt-based spontaneous writing practice. Ever wanted to try your hand at poetry? Corinth Neighborhood Library sponsors a Poetry Workshop the first Monday of each month, beginning at 6 p.m. If you’ve already been writing and are hoping to find a critique group, Leawood Pioneer Neighborhood Library, 4700 Town Center Dr., is the place for you. Our Writer’s Feedback Group meets the second Monday of each month. The meeting
Recipe brews hot cocoa for one or more •
starts at 7 p.m. In addition to our regularly scheduled writing groups, we have plenty of events supporting National Novel Writing Month, which takes place in November. NaNoWriMo, as it is fondly known to regular participants, is a fun, seat-of-your pants approach to creative writing. Starting November 1, writers begin working toward the goal of writing a 50,000-word novel by 11:59 p.m. on November 30. Johnson County Library offers kick-off events, write-ins, and
follow-up events. Check our events page at jocogov.org/library for opportunities! Not sure you’re ready for a group writing adventure? That’s OK, too! Johnson County Library offers a variety of online writing classes you can take from the comfort of your home, even in your PJs at midnight. No more excuses! It’s time to write your story. We can’t wait to hear it. Helen Hokanson is reference librarian at the Central Resource Library.
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder • 1 tablespoon sugar • Pinch of salt • 1 cup milk • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract Whisk together the cocoa, sugar, salt, and about 2 tablespoons milk in a small saucepan over medium-low heat until cocoa and sugar are dissolved. Whisk in the rest of the milk and heat it over medium heat, whisking occasionally, until it is hot. Stir in the vanilla and serve. If you like it frothy, blend it in the blender. This recipe multiplies easily. When you get up to a quart of milk, use 1/4 teaspoon salt. Source: epicurious
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• November 2014
Who knew rust was a patina to look better? By Victor Druten nyone who has traveled or even just opened a National Geographic has been mesmerized by the breath-taking beauty of natural landscapes that have been shaped and molded by millions of years. Everyone has seen pictures of the Grand Canyon, the Tetons, the deserts, the rocky coast lines, the gnarled trees in desolate areas, and ... the faces of those who have lived their lives exposed for decades to the environments. And, yes, even discarded metal stuff that has been left out to rust has a certain beauty to it. Who knew that a patina of rust could make something actually look better? You say as you agree, but ... you don’t want that face you see in the mirror every day to even closely resemble those “intriguing” portrait features in a travel magazine. Yes, you, too, understand the lines in others faces ... wonder at the cracks and the wrinkles ... think about what was behind those spots and craggy looks, but ... well ... that’s not me, is it? Yup. A problem with having to face the too-many candles on a birthday cake every year is simply “acceptance.” We know that we are going to age. We know we are going to physically experience a visual change to every single square inch of our epidermis. We know that Father Time is going to age us so that even our grandkids will not recognize our pictures from half a century ago. The conundrum is we just can
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not gracefully accept the fact that we slowly, like landscapes will eventually either incur some erosion or sport a new patina. Embracing our epidermic history is tough. So, in simple denial, we try new diets, employ the best hair dressers, seek out plastic surgeons, try the newest cosmetics, purchase more jewelry, maybe even dress a little more flamboyantly ... anything to camouflage our new look. It’s not vanity and not really pride either; it just seems unfair. We detest admitting that life can get the best of us. Sorry, people, exercise and diet all you want, time wins every single time. Hmmmm ... handsome vs distinguished? A young person can look cutesy smooth, but an older person with that life-lived look who has that sparkle twinkling eyes-thing going inspires a smile from me. My wife tells me that Connery, and Redford are still hot. I find that Mirren chick to be the bomb. Do I think anyone should not rage against that dying light thing? Heck, No! Get out of the trenches, scrape and tussle and challenge that god of the clock with every single breath you take. Sometimes, slowing down that time train is a win in itself. However, there is the possibility that old-timers admitting that having a lifetime of experience exhibited on their faces can be both admirable and cool and even let you look in the mirror without grimacing so much. Nice to know that we antiques can have a patina also. Heck, now that you’ve accepted your older body has character, you can go worry about something important?!? Vic Druten, a retired teacher, lives in Shawnee.
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A SALUTE TO
JOHNSON COUNTY’S
VETERANS in cooperation with Americans Remembered
Bob Cleary (deceased) Overland Park WW II, Navy, radio operator on LST 562, Radioman 2nd Class, several Pacific island invasions Dudley Rishell Lenexa WW II, Army, corporal, 24th Infantry Division, Truck Driver, Pacific, Philippines Bill Garton Olathe WW II, Air Corps, sergeant, 47th Liaison Sq. of 9th Air Force, Germany, Sergeant, Engine Mechanic Edward Nuessen Olathe Korea, Navy, Fireman on USS Glynn APA 239, two years in Cuba on Floating Dry Dock and USS Marquette Ken Higdon Lenexa WW II, Korea, Navy and Air Force, WW II-seaman second class, Korea-Air Force, pilot, instructor, Korea one year, captain. 27 mos. Navy, 7.5 years Air Force The Best Times features veterans each month. Some vets outside Johnson County are featured when their family members are Johnson County seniors. To suggest a vet’s name, including yours, contact Gary Swanson: call 913-744-8282 or email gswanson@kc.rr. com.
• November 2014
Save time & recycle your lawn waste
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hroughout Johnson County leaves are beginning to fall, and men and women have taken to their yards with rakes and brown yard waste bags in hand. Comprising 11 percent of the Johnson County landfill, yard waste is no small matter. It’s illegal to dump into the storm drain and contains nutrients that can still be used. However, bagging leaves and grass clippings takes a lot of time and cramming them into bags or bundling them can be difficult. What is the best way to manage our lawn waste? Johnson County Department of Health and Environment has a number of tips that not only help the environment but also save you time and your back. Johnson County recommends recycling your lawn by mulch mowing your leaves; returning nutrients back to your lawn as well as saving you time. You can even mulch up to 6 inches of leaves back into your lawn. Other time-saving tips include using your leaves as a mulch material, spreading it around young trees and shrubs. Backyard composting is also a low-cost option. Leaves, grass clippings, and fruit and vegetable scraps can be made into usable, nutrient-rich compost. For more information contact the Johnson County Department of Health and Environment, www. jocogov.org or 913-715-6900.
Winter hours start at Johnson County parks
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inter hours of 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. go into effect Nov. 1 for many Johnson County Park and Recreation District parks. The winter hours will stay in effect through Feb. 28. District parks impacted by the new hours are: Heritage Park, 16050 Pflumm Road, Olathe; Kill Creek Park, 11670
Homestead Lane, Olathe; and Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch Road, Merriam. Winter hours for Shawnee Mission Park, 7900 Renner Road, Shawnee and Lenexa, are 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. For more information, visit the district’s website at www.jcprd.com or call 913-438-7275.
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• November 2014
“as I see it ....”
Your Chairman
Agreeing to disagree on important issues
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ur democracy provides the opportunity for all Americans to exercise their right to agree or to disagree in issues and challenges that greatly concern them. Freedom of expression is one of the pillars of a free society. Both Johnson County Commission on Aging, advisory board of the Area Agency on Aging, and members of the Johnson County delegation of Kansas government should be commended for expressing their viewpoints and calling attention to an important matter facing our senior population. Differing opinions were expected, received, and publicly shared with the hope of continued discussions regarding this important issue in the future as well. Nothing has changed in the Medicare program in Kansas for now with a long road ahead with plenty of off ramps, including approval by Congress. More than 52 million Americans, including more than 445,000 Kansans, are now covered by Medicare. After a lifetime of contributing so much to our nation, our seniors deserve to be able to live out their life with dignity, security, and peace of mind. Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid are vital components of the existing social safety net. Time will tell if the future may create a new program for younger Americans. That may be fair for new generations, but not at a cost to older generations. County Government cares for the most vulnerable in our community, including our senior adults. Adequate aging services are very vital, very important in Johnson County, across Kansas, and throughout the nation. With the emergence of the retiring baby boomers, our population is getting older and grayer. That trend will continue to increase by leaps and bounds. A recent study by Kansas City’s Mid-America Regional Council reports that 60 adults in the metro region now turn 65 years old every day. Four years ago, the Census reported slightly more than 56,000 citizens in Johnson County were 65 and older. According to MARC, the 65-plus population in our county is projected to reach 94,121 by 2020 and 137,117 by 2030. That means a
144 percent increase from 2010 to 2030. Longevity, however, is a double-edged sword. For many older adults, life is good, happy, healthy, and active. Blessings of longer life also come with challenges — difficulties associated with disabilities, health and memory problems, lack of long-term income, and healthcare services. That means more needs, not fewer, for aging programs in the coming years. The bottom line on the future of Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security should not be that on financial ledgers, or even who’s in charge, but should always remain focused on what is best for our senior population, locally, regionally, and nationally. The process requires good leadership and public advocacy that simply guides others and listens to all voices. It’s important to present all sides of important issues and concerns, and to remember and practice the Golden Rule with integrity and respect by being pleasant, polite, and positive in every way possible and at all times possible. Leadership is a “sense of rightness” – knowing when to advance and when to pause, when to criticize and when to praise, and when to talk and when to listen. It means being willing to stand for what you believe in, even if the belief is unpopular, and dealing with others without causing ill feelings or offense. It’s doing and saying the right thing at the right time for the right reason. Will Rogers once noted: “If you want to be successful, it’s just this simple. Know what you are doing. Love what you are doing. And believe in what you are doing.” That’s easier said than done in trying times and testing willpowers. Ideology and power can be very blinding and harmful in making decisions and expressing points of view, but we should always treat others as we, as individuals, would like to be treated in the communities we share. And, we need to keep everything in perspective. Long ago French essayist Michel de Montaigne offered some advice to not allow decision-making to go to your head or misguide you along the way in dealing with others. Back in the 1500s, he noted: “On the loftiest throne in the world we are still sitting only on our own rump.”
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November 2014
Chairman Ed Eilert Phone: 913-715-0500 Email Ed.Eilert@jocogov.org
Your Commissioners C. Edward Peterson 1st District Phone: 913-715-0431 Email Ed.Peterson@jocogov.org
Jim Allen 2nd District Phone: 913-715-0432 Email Jim.Allen@jocogov.org
Steve Klika 3rd District Phone: 913-715-0433 Email Steve.Klika@jocogov.org
Jason L. Osterhaus 4th District Phone: 913-715-0434 Email Jason.Osterhaus@jocogov.org
Michael Ashcraft 5th District Phone: 913-715-0435 Email
Michael.Ashcraft@jocogov.org
John Toplikar 6th District Phone: 913-715-0436 Email John.Toplikar@jocogov.org
The weekly public business sessions of the Johnson County Board of Commissioners begin at 9:30 a.m. on Thursdays in the Johnson County Administration Building, 111 S. Cherry Street, in downtown Olathe. Live coverage of the meetings is viewable each week over the Internet through the county’s main website at www.jocogov. org.
avoiding scams
Identity theft: How to avoid the risks
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By Lee Hancock
oe L. received an email stating he had inherited $50,000 from a great aunt. They just needed a Social Security number to verify his identity. Gregg M. took out his trash. It contained old bank and credit card statements. Ella S. received a phone call identifying himself as a Social Security representative needing to verify her Social Security number. Each of these could lead to a theft of their identity. You don’t have to use a computer to become a victim. Thieves are creative when searching for your personal information. With it they can open lines of credit and get new credit cards. They can wipe out your bank accounts and ruin your financial life. The AAA estimates 11 million instances of identity theft took place nationwide in 2013. Detective Brian Gressel of the Johnson County Sheriff ’s Office reports at least two identity thefts occurred last year in the county. Although it’s impossible to fully shield yourself from an identity thief, the following guidelines should help you avoid such scams. Are you at risk? Begin by being aware of your vulnerabilities. Aging tends to beget complacency. Because you were raised in a slower, less technological era, you may tend to be a more trusting person. That leaves you vulnerable online, through the mail or phone. You’re more likely to tell “new friend” stories from your past that includes simple password reminders (birth date, city, childhood pet, etc.). Thieves also may contact you by phone or in person claiming to represent a charity or a well-known company. Never give out personal information, a credit card number
or password over the phone. Online security You may not have an interest in the intricacies of smart phones, computers, the Internet, or online banking. For a computer novice, banking in person is still the safest. Save the online convenience until you’re better at avoiding the dangers. If you do use a computer be sure to install virus software and it’s up to date. Some viruses exist to steal personal information. Freeze your credit Let’s talk defense. If you find yourself to be a victim, a credit freeze is the fastest and
easiest way to protect yourself from Identity Theft. A credit freeze is an agreement you make with the three main credit reporting bureaus (Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion) not to allow new accounts (credit card, banking, brokerage, loans, rental agreements, etc.) to be attached to your name/Social Security number unless you contact the credit bureau, give them your password allowing them to unfreeze your account for a short period of time. • Equifax Security Freeze P.O. Box 105788 Atlanta, GA 30348 1-800-525-6285 • Experian Security Freeze P.O. Box 9554 Allen, TX 75013 1-888-397-3742 • Trans Union Security Freeze P.O. Box 6790 Fullerton, CA 92834-6790 1-800-680-7289 You only need to request a fraud alert from one of the three credit bureaus. The law requires the bureau you contact to notify the other two. Opt out You can also opt out of junk mail that comes from
financial institutions. Do this by going to www. OptOutPreScreen.com or by calling 1-888-567-8688. This will reduce any pre-approved credit cards and junk mail. Remember that this type of trash is what thieves thrive on. Speaking of trash, buy a paper shredder, and then use it! Any piece of paper that has your name, address, birthday, Social Security number, or account numbers should never go into the trash. Keep Informed By staying current on the latest scams you can not only protect yourself, but pass on knowledge to others. The Kansas Attorney General maintains a website “In Your Corner Kansas” www. ag.ks.gov which also offers helpful information. Gressel also suggests the website www.ic3.gov listing recent activities along with tips for fraud prevention. You can report suspicious emails or calls to the Federal Trade Commission, www. ftc.gov/idtheft, or by calling 1-877-IDTHEFT. Lee Hancock is a freelance writer from Westwood.
Village Stories: The Mayor Soldier, loft developer, “mayor” – Mel Mallin’s life story is filled with intriguing chapters. His latest chapter is focused on bringing joy and laughter to his neighbors at Village Shalom.
Start a new chapter in your story. Call 913-266-8407 to schedule a tour and see how Village Shalom can make for the perfect setting. See how Mel got his “Mayor” moniker at VillageShalom.org/Mel
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• November 2014
inside story
Greg Pryor: From World Series to Life Priority
G
By Joe Henderson
reg Pryor’s baseball career got off to a rather inauspicious beginning. In fact, if not for his father’s intervention it might not have started at all. “My older brother Jeff was a great pitcher and had a scholarship to Florida Southern College,” Prior said. “My Dad told the coach he had to give me a scholarship, too, or he would send Jeff to another college. That’s how I got into Southern Florida.” Obviously, his father, a math teacher, saw something the coach didn’t because the last two years Greg was in college he made the NCAA Division II All-American team. In 1971, Pryor received a $10,000 bonus to sign a contract with the old Washington Senators that launched a 16-year career as an infielder in professional baseball, 10 years of it in the American League with the Texas Rangers, the Chicago White Sox, and the Kansas City Royals, including the 1985 World Series Championship team. Twenty-nine years later to the present day, the Royals, starting with the improbable come-from-behind victory over Oakland in the wild card game, followed by a three-game sweep of the Los Angeles Angels, a four-game sweep of the Baltimore Orioles to win the American League Pennant, and a spot in the 2014 World Series. “That wild card game and the way the Royals came back to win got everyone talking,” Pryor said. “I’m not sure I’ve ever seen a game like it. I got in my seat just before the game started and I didn’t leave it during the more than four hours it lasted.” Now 65 and out of baseball since 1987, Pryor still loves the game. “I think baseball is the greatest game ever invented. When I go out to a game now I try to be a fan but I’m still a player. I look at it as a player,” he said. He sees similarities in the way the Royals played this year and the way the ’85 team played. “Both teams played aggressive baseball, stealing bases, and had good defense and pitching,” he said. “We had aggressive base runners on our team, Hal McRae, Willie Wilson, Lonnie Smith, George Brett, and good pitching and timely hitting. Steve Balboni hit 36 home runs.” “Both teams had great clubhouse camaraderie which makes coming to the park every day more fun. Of course, camaraderie is always better when the team’s winning than when things are going bad,” Pryor added with a laugh. The Royals released Pryor in the spring of 1987. “I think I could have played a little longer,” he said.
“Tony La Russa was managing a Triple A team and offered me a spot. But if I couldn’t play in the major leagues I didn’t want to play. So I retired.” He and his wife, Michelle, moved to the Kansas City area in 1982 when he was traded to the Royals. They settled in Overland Park where they raised their three daughters. They still live there. Pryor remains close with former teammates in the area and participates in the Royals annual Fantasy Camp in Arizona. “We have a blast there,” he said. After he retired, Pryor tried selling advertising and insurance. “I wasn’t cut out to sell advertising. I was 41 and I was tired, worn out, and not feeling very well,” he said. In 1991, Pryor attended a conference featuring Durk Pearson and his wife, Sandy Shaw, publishers of the New York Times best seller “Life Extension, A Practical Scientific Approach,” a study of nutrition, vitamins, supplements. “I learned they had spent much of their lives exploring the aging process and healthy lifestyles. They created ‘Designer Foods,’a line of nutrients and supplements,” he said. It turned out to be a life changing experience for Pryor. “I talked with them after the lecture and tried out their line of nutrients and vitamins. I was impressed with the results. My energy level increased, I no longer was catching colds and I just felt better.” After three years of selling “Designer Foods,” Pryor and Michelle opened their own company, Life Priority, Inc., distributing a variety of nutrients, vitamins and supplements in Overland Park. “We continue to talk with Durk and Sandy frequently about the business,” he said. “We try to educate the public about the value of taking proper nutrients. So many people don’t take preventive medications, they wait until there’s a problem,” he said. “It’s difficult to convince customers of the benefits that are available. They say ‘I’m feeling okay’ and don’t want to talk about it. I was the same way. I thought it was a waste of money until I got into it.” “It’s amazing how the body and brain responds to proper nutrients. They are especially beneficial to senior citizens and I believe may delay the onset of dementia and Alzheimer’s. We supply many physicians and chiropractors who prescribe our products regularly,” Pryor said. For more information about Life Priority products, go to customer service@lifepriority.com or call 913-438-5433. Joe Henderson was a federal court reporter with The Kansas City Star for 40 years and is now a freelance writer. He lives in Overland Park.
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• November 2014
your November classifieds Publishing of classified advertising does not constitute agreement or endorsement by this magazine or Johnson County SERVICES PROVIDED Computer Training For Seniors SenCom (Senior Computer Users Group of KC) is offering three-hour computer workshops sponsored by Shawnee Parks and Recreation. Workshops are hands-on, senior paced, with plenty of help. They are held at 6535Quivira. November offerings include: Window 8.1 , Introduction to Computers, Files and Folders, Facebook, Scype, and Computer Maintenance. To register for a class call: 913-631-5200. For more information about the group and meeting times call: Teresa at 913206-7017, or visit us on the Web at www. kcsenior.net. SECRETARIAL SERVICES: “FLYING FINGERS”, 913-432-0907: Since 1997, fast (80 wpm), confidential, friendly! Novels, correspondence, legal & medical documents, dictation, Internet research, bulk mailings, spreadsheets…Superb writing, spelling & grammar skills, $16-$18/hr; jdrake3@kc.rr.com. Companions needed for elderly individuals in the Johnson County, Kansas area. Duties include light housekeeping, transportation, assisting in dressing, bathing, eating. Flexible schedules. Contact Christi at Heaven Sent Home Care for an application (913-390-8758). Swalms Organizing and Downsizing Service. Reduce clutter and enjoy an organized home! Basement, attic, garage, shop, storage rooms—any room organized. Belongings sorted, boxed, and labeled. Items hauled for recycling, items donated, trash bagged. For before-and-after photos, please see www.swalmsorganizing.com. Over 20 years of organizing experience, insured. Call Tillar: 913-3759115. Classified ads must be submitted in writing and with payment by the eighth day of the month for the following month’s issue. The rate is $30 for up to 20 words and $.55 per additional word. (minimum, $30). To have your business card included in this advertising section, business cards must be submitted by the eighth day of the month for the following month’s issue. To either place a classified ad or insertion of your business card:
Call: 913-715-8920
Larry Laney Construction Co. Specializing in Kitchen / Bathroom Remodeling and Home Renovation. Finish Carpentry, Painting, Electrical, Plumbing, Drywall and Tile . I’m an Honest, Hardworking , Dependable and Very Skilled Licensed Contractor, Insured with References . Call Larry at 913-963-3434. Complete Residential Services. Electrical, plumbing repairs, interior and exterior painting, driveway sealing and repair, expert textured ceiling or wall repair. Free estimates and references available. Call Rich at 913-522-8325. CPR Computing. For all your computer needs. Virus and spyware removal, Windows repair and installation, upgrades, software and hardware training, new PC consultation, and networking. Call Rich Armstrong at 913-522-8325. Fast, friendly, and very affordable. WRITE YOUR LIFE STORY WORKBOOK. Learn how to start, organize, and finish writing your life story. Order: www.angelinyourinkwell.com and click on Buy Here. Or send $15 plus $5 shipping to Carol Newman, PO Box 480835, Kansas City, MO 64145-0835. Questions: call Carol 913-681-1168. Johnson County Home Service Plumbing Co. Free service call for any plumbing in your home with this ad! Servicing Johnson County for over 50 years. JCHS is a division of Reddi Root’r Systems. Trust earned the old-fashioned way! Angie’s List Super Award winner. Member Better Business Bureau. www.jocoplumbing.com or 913-439-1700. MG Home Repair and Improvement. All around the home repairs. Carpentry, lighting, plumbing, concrete repairs, deck and fence repair, power washing, staining and sealing, interior and exterior painting. Experienced, quality workmanship; senior discounts; free estimates; insured. Call Michael in Shawnee, 913-486-9040.
Adult painting classes now forming. Have fun while making new friends in a small creative painting environment designed for all skill levels. No prior experience necessary, contact Carole, at 913-825-1307. Visit my website at caroleabla.com. Mister Green Landscaping & Lawn Care Family owned and operated. Let us help you get ready for winter. One-stop for all your lawn needs! * Leaf clean up * Gutter Cleaning * Tree Trimming & Removal * Bush Trimming * Retaining Walls * Drain Solutions * Mowing * Irrigation Winterization & Repairs * Landscape * Trim Bushes * Yard Work. FREE ESTIMATES, SENIOR DISCOUNTS, QUICK SERVICE, 10+ years’ experience, licensed & insured. 913-707-2551. AM/PM Technology DAY/NIGHT PC, Apple and Android Service (including computers, tablets and smart phones.) We come to your home. Same low rates and senior discounts for all services. 913-3852676. For 19 years we have been the #1 resource for helping seniors in Johnson County to install new PCs, get rid of viruses, resolve e-mail issues, repair equipment, set up wireless networks and handle related issues. To learn more, schedule a visit or ask for free advice, call Joe, John, Doug or Patrick at 913-385-2676. “We speak English.” WRITING/EDITING SERVICES: Your life story is unique. Your book lies before you. Let me help you write your story for family, friends, associates. I have a degree in journalism and 30 years of writing experience. Together we can make it happen. I’ve made it happen for others. Contact David W. Swafford 816-229-2042 or dwsnarratives@gmail.com. Doggie Day Care and Boarding at All Things Dogs KC. Pets are not caged and they stay in a home atmosphere that’s on two acres fenced. Call Kim at 816-7191339.
at your service Help From A Friend
Write Your Life Story Workbook! Learn how to start, organize, and finish writing your life story. To place an order online go to www.angelinyourinkwell.com and click on “Buy Here” or send $15 plus $5 shipping to Carol Newman, P.O. Box 480835, Kansas City, MO 64145-0835.
Questions? Call Carol (913) 681-1168 www.jocogov.org/thebesttimes •
Helping Older Adults with the Most Common Improvement Maintenance & Repair Services 25% - 50% Less Than Typical Service Providers Yard Work Planting
Lawn Mowing Gutter Cleaning
Aerating Verticutting
House Cleaning Window Cleaning
Weeding Pruning Trimming
Leaf Cleanup Lawn Care Lawn Renovation
Power Raking Seeding Fertilizing
Organizing Junk Removal Moving Help
Shrub Removal Yard Cleanup
Mulch / Edging Topsoil / Sod
Lawn Patching Weed Control
Interior Painting Odd Jobs & More
A+ Rating
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HelpFromAFriend.com
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913-980-8686
your November classifieds SERVICES PROVIDED Cleaning “Maid Simple”. Residential house cleaning. Reasonable and dependable. Johnson County area. Call Denise Carter. 913-563-5883. Free estimates. Budget Tree Service, LLC. Trimmed, shaped, or removed. Shrubs shaped or removed. Fence rows cleaned. No job too small. Licensed, insured. 913-593-7386. Free estimates. Budgettreeservicekc.com. Glen’s Installs and Handyman Service. 25 years as experienced owner/installer. No job too small. Windows, doors, bathroom and kitchen remodeling, electrical and plumbing repairs. Home 913-764-0520; cell phone 816-260-5024. References available. www. glensinstalls.com. Senior hairstyling; haircuts, perms, color, roller or blow dry styling. located at 5909 Dearborn Dr. Mission, Ks. Between Martway and Johnson Drive. No steps. Front door parking. Call Carol at 913-341-8757. If no answer leave a message. $5 off first visit.
Lawn mowing, aerification, seeding, fertilizing and landscape. Honest, Reliable and Reasonable. 25 yrs. exp. of golf grounds management. Call KURT @ 816-896-7354. HANDYMAN PRO, LLC - Repair, Remodel, Renew. Bathrooms, painting, decks, yard work, sheetrock repair, grab bars, ramp building. Call Tom for free estimate. 913-4887320. Handymanprokc.com. Prescription Drug SAVINGS! See www. LSRXCare.org/99622. Patient Advocacy Group helps those qualified to save on name brand drugs. I can help, if you are uninsured, or have Medicare Part D, Obamacare or private insurance. Join us and save! Call Beth at 913-787-5917. Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management and transportation to the elderly and disabled in their home, assisted living or skilled nursing facility. We also provide respite care for main caregivers needing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at (913) 341-2500 and speak with Laurie, Debbie or Gary.
Best on the Block Interior and Exterior Painting. Licensed and insured. For free estimate, call Troy at 913-424-6346.
HOUSING Time flies! Start planning now to get more than you pay for in an affordable, faith-friendly home. Now accepting applications for our waiting list: Olathe Towers and College Way Village. 913-782-6131. Equal Housing Opportunity. All faiths or beliefs welcome.
ITEMS WANTED RESIDENTIAL LIFTS. Buy, sell, trade. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts, elevators. Call Silver Cross at 913-327-5557.
FOR SALE Used Electric Wheelchair for $200. Good Condition. For more information call (913) 856-6757. Mink coats, size 10-12, Lite brown-blonde color, Alaskan Fur Company Appraisals. Full and waist length. Call Nancy, 913-302-8467.
your November calendar All classes and events require registration unless otherwise indicated by *. November 1 Bridge: Trouble Subjects. 6:30 p.m. Roeland Park. $10/$11.
November 2
November 6
Brunch Painting Party. 10 a.m. Mill Creek. $55/$61.
Senior Cinema: “12 Years a Slave.” 12:15 p.m. Lenexa Senior Center. Enjoy free popcorn, beverage and a movie!
November 3 Email with Gmail. 7 p.m. Central Resource Library, Training Lab.
Beginners Computer Workshop. 1 p.m. Shawnee Safety Center. Fee: $30 ($15 for SenCom members).
Cane Fu. 1:30 p.m. Matt Ross. $56/$64 for 8/2 hour classes. Writing Your Memoir. 1:30 p.m. Matt Ross. $58/$64 for 8/2 hour classes.
November 4 Wellness: Fall Prevention. 12:30 p.m. Roeland Park Community.
Understanding Reverse Mortgages: Do They Make Sense For You? 1:30 p.m. Shawnee Library. Tuesday Tunes with Betse Ellis: 6:30 p.m. Olathe Public Library.
November 11
Tech Garage. 9:30 a.m. Olathe Public Library. Fish Tales. 2:30 p.m., Uncle Buck’s at Bass Pro, 12051 Bass Pro Drive, Olathe. Reservation requested by calling 913-831-3888. A reminiscence and discussion group for individuals with earlier stage dementia who enjoy the outdoors and various nature related hobbies and experiences. 50 & Beyond Matinee: “Finding Forrester.” 12:30 p.m. Sylvester Powell. $1; free for SPJCC members. Free popcorn, coffee, and water are provided during the movie.
November 12 & 13
Sr. Arts Council Exhibit Opening Night Reception. 7 p.m. Irene B. French. Skillbuilders: Preparing Your Home for Sale. 9:45-10 a.m. coffee, meet, greet. 10-11:50 a.m. Tomahawk Ridge. Call 913-648-1520 for further information.
Organizing Files & Folders. 9 a.m. Shawnee Safety Center. Fee: $30 ($15 for SenCom members).
November 8
Field to Table: Venison. 6 p.m. Extension.
November 10 Free Drop-In Health Clinic. 1 – 3 p.m. Indian Creek. Olathe Fire Dept. EMT will provide blood pressure checks and health information. *
AARP Driving Course. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Jewish Community Center, 5801 West 115th Street, Overland Park. $15/$20. 913-327-8046.
The Art of Great Communication: A Business Toolkit Workshop Series. 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. Olathe Community Center, 1205 Kansas City Road. $35 – includes breakfast and lunch. 913-971-8563.
Reverse Mortgages. 1:30 p.m. Extension.
November 5 &6
Genealogy 101. 2 p.m. Roeland Park Community Center. 2-90 min classes $23/$25.
November 7
Social Tea Dance. 1:30 p.m. Roeland Park. $5 at the door. Singles and couples welcome!
AARP Driving Course. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Lakeview Village, 9100 Park, Lenexa. $15/$20. 913-888-1900.
Demystifying Winter Squash. 6:30 p.m. Shawnee Town 1929. $10. Tallgrass National Preserve at Strong City, Kan. Leaves 8 a.m. from Antioch Park, 6501 Antioch Road, Merriam, for 9-hour outing. $25. Lunch costs on your own at Ad Astra Food & Drink.
Raising Chickens in Your Back Yard. 9:30 a.m. Shawnee Town 1929. Fee: $10
America Bingo. 1:30 p.m. New Century Fieldhouse. $5/$6 for 12 games.
November 5
Hoarding: the Impact of Compulsive Keepers. 2 p.m. Extension, Corinth Library.
Fun Travel for Lifelong Learners. 2 p.m., Lackman Library. Lenexa Sertoma’s Charity Fundraiser 6th Annual Boo Brew Tasting. 2 – 4 p.m. Gordon Biersch Brewery, 11652 Ash Street, Leawood. $30 tickets in advance, $35 day of event. Proceeds will be used to purchase looping technology at the Indian Creek Branch Library meeting room for those with hearing loss. www.LenexaSertoma. org. 913-568-3396.
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November 12
Free Drop-In Health Clinic. 10 a.m. – noon. Olathe Public Library. Olathe Fire Dept. EMT will provide blood pressure checks and health information. * Birthdays for November. Lunch @ 11:30 a.m. ($3 donation). Lenexa Senior Center. From Birth through Retirement: A Positive Aging Coalition Program. 6:30 – 8 p.m. Leawood Pioneer Library. Learn about essential information needed for optimum oral health care for all stages of life. Eating Organic on $500 a Month. 7 p.m. Shawnee Civic Centre. $12.
November 13
Computer and Online Safety Holiday Focused Update. 6:30 p.m. Irene B. French.
• November 2014
your November calendar Social Networking: Making the Connection to Generation Next. 10 a.m. Extension, Indian Creek. Lunch Bunch. 11:15 a.m. Grand Street Café. Cost of your meal, plus $8 per person if transportation is needed from Lenexa Senior Center. Social Networking: Making the Connection to Generation Next. 1 p.m. Roeland Park. Thanks for Bingo. 1:30 p.m. Irene B. French. $3/3 cards. Social Networking: Making the Connection to Generation Next. 2 p.m. Extension. Organizing Your Important Papers. 6 p.m. Extension. Pie Baking 101. 6 p.m. Extension. Gluten Free Baking. 6 p.m. Shawnee Civic Centre. $28. Pickleball Lessons. 9 a.m. Matt Ross. $7/$8. Skillbuilders: Cope with the Holidays. 9:45-10 a.m. coffee, meet, greet. 10-11:50 a.m. Tomahawk Ridge. Call 913-648-1520 for further information.
November 14 & 15
Starlight Quilters Guild Quilt Show “Look What We Made” with more than 100 quilts on display. 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Abdallah Shrine Temple, 5300 Metcalf Avenue, Overland Park. $3/under 12 free. http://starlightquilters. com/2014_quilt_show or 816-590-0763.
November 13 Paint & Sip. 7 p.m. Shawnee Civic Centre. $25. iPad® Basics. 1:30 p.m. Matt Ross. $29/$33. The New “50” and Beyond-Art of Living Seminar. 1:30 p.m. Matt Ross. $8/$9.
November 15 Transitions. 9:30 a.m. Alzheimer’s Association Education Center, 3856 W. 75th Street, Prairie Village. Reservation is requested by calling 913-831-3888. Support group for family members who have lost someone with Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia.
November 17 & 18
AARP Driving Course. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Tallgrass Creek Retirement Center, 13800 Metcalf Avenue, Overland Park. $15/$20. 913-945-2006.
November 21
November 17
Get Comfortable with Microsoft Windows® 8. 1:30 p.m. Matt Ross. $34/$37. Favorites by the Fire. 1:30 p.m. Matt Ross.
Country Dance Party. 7:30-10:30 p.m. Shawnee Civic Centre. Fee: $5 at the door. Pop and water provided at no extra charge.
Novemb er 23
November 18 Intro to Skype. 1 p.m. Shawnee Safety Center. $30 ($15 for SenCom members).
November 19
Grandma’s Yellow Pie Plate. 2 p.m. Extension, Corinth Library.
Mannheim Steamroller at the Kauffman Center. Leaves 2 p.m. Sylvester Powell. Show at 3 p.m. Return at approximately 6:15 p.m. $95 includes transportation & ticket to the show.
November 25
Girls Night Out … BUNCO. 7 p.m. Shawnee Civic Centre. $10.
50 & Beyond Matinee: “The Grand Seduction.” 12:30 p.m. Sylvester Powell. $1; free for SPJCC members. Free popcorn, coffee and water are provided during the movie.
Wyandotte Trail Day Trip. Leaves at 9 a.m. from Antioch Park. $18. Bring a sack lunch and a few dollars in case participants stop for ice cream.
Johnson County offices will be closed to observe the Thanksgiving holiday.
Adult LEGO Fans. 6:30 p.m. Indian Creek.
Kansas City Bingo. 1:30 p.m. Matt Ross. $5 per person for 12 games.
November 20 Thanksgiving Party. 12:15 p.m. Lenexa Senior Center. Please bring a treat to share! Computer Maintenance. 1 p.m. Shawnee Safety Center. Fee: $30 ($15 for SenCom members). Tech Garage. 1 p.m. Indian Creek. Thanks for Seniors. 11:30 a.m. Sylvester Powell. $12/ person. Say “Thank You” to the Seniors of Northeast Johnson County with a traditional Thanksgiving feast and musical entertainment from the Shawnee Mission North High School Strolling Strings. Skillbuilders: Planning and Legal Issues. 9:45-10 a.m. coffee, meet, greet. 10-11:50 a.m. Tomahawk Ridge. Call 913-648-1520 for further information.
November 21 & 22
November 25 & 26 November 26
Adopt a Grandparent. 1-3 p.m. Lenexa Senior Center. Event will pair up kids ages 7-14 years old with a “grandparent” that they will get to know throughout the holidays. Each week the “grandchild” will be bringing a treat, letter, card, or homemade gift for their adopted grandparent. Program will end on December 31 with a New Year’s Eve luncheon and party.
November 28 1860s Living History. Noon – 4 p.m. Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm, 1200 Kansas City Road, Olathe. $6/adults, $4/children ages 5 and up. Olathe residents receive $1/off admission. Breakfast with Santa. 8:30 – 10 a.m., Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm. $8/person ages 3 & up. Enjoy breakfast, a visit with Santa, make a craft, and receive one photo per family. Registration is required and due November 21. To register, call 913-971-5111.
Ascension Marketplace. Friday: 7-10 p.m. Saturday: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Church of the Ascension, 9510 W. 127th Street, Overland Park. Call 913-681-3348 or email dmaurer@kcascension.org.
FACILITY LOCATIONS BLUE VALLEY REC.: Blue Valley Recreation Activity Center: 6545 W. 151st St., Overland Park, KS 66223; 913-685-6000; www.bluevalleyrec. org. CENTRAL RESOURCE LIBRARY: 9875 W. 87th St., Overland Park, KS 66212; 913-826-4600 and Press 3 for all Johnson County Library reservations. EXTENSION: Johnson County K-State Research and Extension, 11811 S. Sunset Drive, Olathe, KS 66061; 913-715-7000; www.johnson.ksu.edu/ classes.
MILL CREEK: Mill Creek Activity Center, 6518 Vista, Shawnee, KS 66218; 913-826-2950. NEW CENTURY: New Century Fieldhouse, 551 New Century Parkway, New Century, KS 66031; 913-826-2860. OLATHE PUBLIC LIBRARY: 201 E. Park St., Olathe, KS 66061; 913-9716850; to register, 913-971-6888. PRAIRIE VILLAGE: Prairie Village Community Center, 7720 Mission Road, Prairie Village, KS 66208; 913-381-6464.
INDIAN CREEK: Indian Creek Branch Library, 12990 Black Bob Road, Olathe, KS 66062; 913-971-6888.
ROELAND PARK: Roeland Park Community Center, 4850 Rosewood Drive, Roeland Park, KS 66205; 913-826-3160.
IRENE B. FRENCH: Irene B. French Community Center, 5701 Merriam Drive, Merriam, KS 66203; 913-322-5550.
SHAWNEE CIVIC CENTRE: 13817 Johnson Drive, Shawnee, KS 66216; 913-631-5200.
LENEXA SENIOR CENTER: 13425 Walnut St., Lenexa, KS 66215; 913477-7100.
SHAWNEE SAFETY CENTER: SenCom computer lab, lower level, 6535 Quivira Road, Shawnee, KS 66203; 913-631-5200.
MAHAFFIE STAGECOACH STOP AND FARM: 1200 Kansas City Road, Olathe, KS 66061; 913-971-5111.
SYLVESTER POWELL: Sylvester Powell Community Center, 6200 Martway St., Mission, KS 66202; 913-722-8200.
MATT ROSS: Matt Ross Community Center, 8101 Marty St., Overland Park, KS 66212; 913-642-6410.
TOMAHAWK RIDGE: Tomahawk Ridge Community Center, 11902 Lowell Ave., Overland Park, KS 66213; 913-327-6645.
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• November 2014
Actual Spectrum Residents
Life with...
Call about our Snowbird Special!
ease
Come stay with us for the winter! Enjoy not having to worry about the elements. Get away from the winter weather locally with a winter vacation at Shawnee Hills! And, we’ll move you back home in the spring!
913.871.3743
6335 Maurer Road, Shawnee, KS 66217 ShawneeHillsSeniorLiving.com Sister property in Overland Park
SH Best Times November 2014 Full Page
Independent Retirement Living A SPECTRUM RETIREMENT COMMUNITY
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• November 2014