A publication of the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging
April 2016 VOL. 41 • NO. 4
ENOA 4223 Center Street Omaha, NE 68105-2431
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID OMAHA NE PERMIT NO. 389
New Horizons ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
An animal’s best friend
After serving more than 18 years as the president and CEO of the Nebraska Humane Society, Judy Varner is retiring at the end of April. Varner is seen here with her dog, Archie Manning. Nick Schinker’s story about Varner and her career begins on page 10.
Let’s read
What’s inside April calendar of events.......................................... 3
Tony Weigel was among a group of six older adults that recently read to the second grade classes at Ralston’s St. Gerald’s Elementary School. See page 18.
Information on homestead exemptions.................. 3 Salvaging your old tires ......................................... 4 Tax filing assistance through April 18 .................... 5 Adopting retired military, police dogs .................... 6 Color Vibe 5K to benefit ENOA ............................... 7 Sen. Fischer working to end ‘spoofing’ ................ 15 The benefits of swimming .................................... 15 ‘Read it & eat’ offers regional recipes .................. 16 Ramsey, Dineen Shrier’s new book ...................... 19
Positive beliefs may protect against Alzheimer’s
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new Yale School of Public Health study is the first to link negatives beliefs to brain changes that can cause Alzheimer’s. The findings are consistent with a multitude of studies that show what we think has a profound physiological impact on our body, says Dr. Noelle Nelson, psychologist and author of the recently released Happy, Healthy, Dead. “Not only are positive beliefs now shown to protect against Alzheimer’s, but an appreciative, grateful, happy, and optimistic outlook can result in better cardiovascular health and lower blood pressure which can lead to longer life,” says Nelson. The Yale study authors used MRIs to examine healthy, dementia-free subjects from the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging, the nation’s longest-running scientific study of human aging. Researchers found participants with more negative beliefs about aging showed a greater decline in the volume of the hippocampus, a part of the brain cru-
cial to memory, than those who had beliefs that are more positive. Less hippocampus volume is a sign of Alzheimer’s disease. “Your thoughts and emotions are in fact cellular signals that are involved in the process of translating information into physical reality,” says Nelson. “It turns out what we think and feel have far greater impact on our physical well-being and to happy, healthy longevity than we may realize.” The study was led by Becca Levy, associate professor of public health and of psychology. “We believe it is the stress generated by the negative beliefs about aging that individuals sometimes internalize from society that can result in pathological brain changes,” says Levy. “Although the findings are concerning, it is encouraging to realize these negative beliefs about aging can be mitigated and positive beliefs about aging can be reinforced, so that the adverse impact is not inevitable.”
RSVP RSVP is recruiting persons age 55 and older for a variety of opportunities. For more information in Douglas, Sarpy, and Cass counties, please call 402-4446536, ext. 224. In Dodge and Washington counties, please call 402-721-7780. The following have volunteer opportunities in Douglas, Sarpy, and Cass counties: • The Disabled American Veterans/VA Medical Center needs volunteer drivers. • The Office of Public Guardians is looking for volunteer court visitors. The following have a volunteer opportunity in Dodge and/or Washington County: • The Blair and Fremont Car-Go Program needs volunteer drivers.
Dance Wednesdays at Legion Post # 1 You’re invited to attend a dance each Wednesday afternoon from 1 to 4 at American Legion Post #1, 7811 Davenport St. Admission is $2. For more information, please call 402-392-0444.
Blue Barn Theatre
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ucas Hnath’s The Christians, will be on stage through April 17 at the Blue Barn Theatre, 1106 S. 10th St. The Christians has been described as a “big-little play about faith in America and the trouble with changing your mind.” Show times are Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Sundays, April 3, 10, and 17. Tickets are $30 for adults and $25 for seniors and groups of 10 or more. For tickets and more information, please call 402-345-1576. VOTES WANTED PLEASE GO TO
www.lightthebridge.org 100% non-profit addressing hunger VOTES TO DATE • For: 3,076 • Please vote today to address hunger.
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April 2016 events calendar 1 The Christians Blue Barn Theatre Through April 17 Thursday - Saturday @ 7:30 p.m. Sunday @ 6 p.m. April 3, 10, & 17 $25 and $30 402-345-1576 Ballet Nebraska Momentum: Go West Witherspoon Concert Hall @ Joslyn Art Museum 7:30 p.m. $19 to $45 402-541-6946 2 Omaha Symphony Also April 3 The Way You Look Tonight Holland Arts Center Saturday @ 7:30 p.m. Sunday @ 2 p.m. $19 to $85 402-345-0606 8 Opera Omaha Semele Also April 10 Orpheum Theater Friday @ 7:30 p.m. Sunday @ 2 p.m. $19 to $99 402-346-4398
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9 Omaha Symphony Latin Pop Revolution Holland Performing Arts Center 7:30 p.m. $19 to $85 402-345-0606
17 Nebraska Wind Symphony Color of Music Strauss Performing Arts Center @ UNO 3 p.m. $5 and $10 402-216-0325 Omaha Symphony Sacred Conversation Joslyn Art Museum 2 p.m. $33 402-345-0606 20 Omaha Performing Arts The Phantom of the Opera Through May 1 Orpheum Theater 402-345-0606
22 Omaha Symphony Beethoven’s Violin Concerto Also April 23 Holland Performing Arts Center 7:30 p.m. $19 to $85 402-345-0606 24 Omaha Symphony Peter and the Wolf Holland Performing Arts Center 2 p.m. $12 402-345-0606 29 Omaha Performing Arts Ester Rada Holland Performing Arts Center 8 p.m. 402-345-0606 30 Omaha Symphony The Oak Ridge Boys Also May 1 Holland Arts Center Saturday @ 7:30 p.m. Sunday @ 2 p.m. $19 to $85 402-345-0606
Make a donation to help support the
“Voice for Older Nebraskans!”
b u l C s n o z i r New Ho
Join the
Membership includes a subscription to the New Horizons newspaper. New Horizons Club Send Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging 4223 Center Street to: Omaha, NE 68105-2431 I get the New Horizons regularly and don’t need to be put on the mailing list. I would like to start receiving the New Horizons at home. My address is below. NAME ADDRESS CITY/STATE/ZIP
Return homestead exemption applications by June 30
pplicants whose names are on file in the assessor’s office in Douglas, Sarpy, Dodge, Cass, and Washington counties should have a homestead exemption form mailed to them by early March. New applicants must contact their county assessor’s office to receive the application. The 2016 forms and a household income statement must be completed and returned to the county assessor’s office by June 30, 2016. A homestead exemption provides property tax relief by exempting all or part of the homestead’s valuation from taxation. The state of Nebraska reimburses the counties and other government subdivisions for the lost tax revenue. To qualify for a homestead exemption, a Nebraska homeowner must be age 65 by Jan. 1, 2016, the home’s owner/occupant through Aug. 15, 2016, and fall within the income guidelines shown below. Certain homeowners who have a disability and totally-disabled war veterans and their widow(er)s may also be eligible for this annual tax break. When determining household income, applicants must include Social Security and Railroad Retirement benefits plus any
income for which they receive a Form 1099. The homestead exemption amount is based on the homeowner’s marital status and income level (see below). Maximum exemptions are based on the average assessed value for residential property in each Nebraska county. The Douglas County Assessor/Register of Deeds’ office (1819 Farnam St.) is sending volunteers into the community to help older adults complete the application form. The volunteers will be located at sites throughout the county. A list of these locations will be included with your application. Assistance is also available by calling the Volunteers Assisting Seniors at 402444-6617. Douglas County residents can also have their homestead exemption questions answered by calling 402-597-6659. Here are the telephone numbers for the assessor’s offices in the counties served by the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging: Douglas: 402-444-7060; Sarpy: 402593-2122; Dodge: 402-727-3916; Cass: 402-296-9310; and Washington: 402426-6800.
Household income table Over age 65 married income
Over age 65 single income
Exemption %
0 - $32,200.99 $32,201 - $33,900.99 $33,901 - $35,700.99 $35,701 - $37,400.99 $37,401 - $39,100.99 $39,101 - $40,900.99 $40,901 - $42,600.99 $42,601 - $44,300.99 $44,301 - $46,100.99 $46,101 - $47,800.99 $47, 801 and over
0 to $27,400.99 $27,401 - $28,800.99 $28,801 - $30,300.99 $30,301 - $31,700.99 $31,701 - $33,100.99 $33,101 - $34,500.99 $34,501 - $36,000.99 $36,001 - $37,400.99 $37,401 - $38,800.99 $38,801 - $40,300.99 $40,301 and over
100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0
April 2016
today!
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New Horizons New Horizons is the official publication of the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging. The paper is distributed free to people over age 60 in Douglas, Sarpy, Dodge, Washington, and Cass counties. Those living outside the 5-county region may subscribe for $5 annually. Address all correspondence to: Jeff Reinhardt, Editor, 4223 Center Street, Omaha, NE 68105-2431. Phone 402-444-6654. FAX 402-444-3076. E-mail: jeff.reinhardt@nebraska.gov Advertisements appearing in New Horizons do not imply endorsement of the advertiser by the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging. However, complaints about advertisers will be reviewed and, if warranted, their advertising discontinued. Display and insert advertising rates available on request. Open rates are commissionable, with discounts for extended runs. Circulation is 20,000 through direct mail and freehand distribution.
Editor....................................................Jeff Reinhardt Ad Mgr................Mitch Laudenback, 402-444-4148 Contributing Writers......Nick Schinker, Leo Biga, & Lois Friedman ENOA Board of Governors: Mary Ann Borgeson, Douglas County, chairperson; Jim Peterson, Cass County, vice-chairperson; Gary Osborn, Dodge County secretary; Brenda Carlisle, Sarpy County; & Lisa Kramer, Washington County. The New Horizons and the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging provide services without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, marital status, disability, or age.
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Finding a new home for your old tires
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merica is overrun with tires. They’re one of our biggest disposal headaches. Approximately one billion tires are manufactured yearly while far fewer are recycled. They present problems due to their size, weight, and materials. Many end up in a landfill. A pile of tires will collect water and become a great breeding ground for mosquitoes. Other vermin, such as snakes and rats, will habit these tires. They are also a vandalism target. If set on fire, tires emit dangerous gases into the atmosphere and are difficult to extinguish. Even hosing a tire fire will cause dangerous runoff. What can you do with these old tires? When you buy new tires, make sure the old ones are disposed of properly. For a small fee, the dealer will often send them to a recycling factory. Many states require this. Disposal sites and transfer stations often have an amnesty day where you can drop off your old tires for no charge. If you’re industrious, you can create a business collecting these old tires and selling them to a retreading business. What else can you do with old tires? You have undoubtedly seen a tire tied to a tree to create a swing. Apart from the nostalgia, think of some other adaptations. Cut the tire in half or a third for a swing seat. Fasten the tire with chains bolted to the two sides. You can also hang the swing horizontally, fastening chains to the two sides and back. Consider painting or decorating the tires. Your grandkids will love a tire jungle. Stack various size tires randomly on each other, decorated or painted in different colors. You may want to fill some with dirt
to provide a floor inside the tire. More conventionally, turn various size tires into a sandbox. Design a bike rack: cut several tires in half, place them upside down, and join them together with strips across the bottoms front and back, slightly spaced apart. Alternately, bury half the tire in the ground or in sand. Cut a large tractor or truck tire in two, fasten a board across the flat cuts, and suddenly you have a teeter-totter. For still one more inventive reuse, build a climbing wall. Place tires around the yard or in the garden and use as planters. Let your creativity come to the fore by decorating these tires to either fit in or stand out artistically. Mount them on legs for an even more striking look. You can also fasten tires to an outside wall, fill the bottoms with dirt and start growing some hanging plants. Elsewhere around the garden, you can make old tires into rubber chairs and tables. Cut wide strips of tires and nail or fasten to outside stairs to prevent slipping. Weave strips of tires together to form a doormat or a mat in the garage. Use pieces of tire as ground cover to prevent nasty weeds from growing where you don’t want them. Recycle the tires into roof shingles. Tires, whole or cut down and filled with old blankets or other materials, make a great cat or dog bed. You can also turn one into a kitty litter box. Recycled tires have limited use inside the house because they’re porous. Painting and shellacking may help, but they aren’t the best for flooring. Leave that for gyms and field tracks. However, there are some functional uses. Trim off the rim of the tire and turn it into a mirror frame. This would look great in the bathroom. Below it, you could make the rim an edge around a circular sink. Either of these uses would make a great conversation piece for your guests. A picture frame would also be a good use for this rim. Install shelves inside a tire and hang on a wall for a knickknack display. If you live in a small space and have nowhere to store your summer and winter tires, clean them off, bring them inside, and build a table. Stack two or more, or set them on a stand, place something interesting like a light or some plants in the center, and cover with a piece of glass. Another recycling use would be to construct an ottoman or footstool. Place a few tires on top of each other, wrap or glue twine, yarn, or rope, inside and out or around; construct a top and decorate it similarly. Another interesting way to create the chair seat or footstool is to punch holes around the tire and weave colored ropes across like a conventional woven seat. Now you’re ready to sit down and put your feet up. Cut into strips, tires can serve as a chair rail or top off some wainscoting. Mold larger pieces into a bowl or a lined ice bucket. Weave strips over each other and create a basket. Whatever way you recycle tires, you’re doing the environment a favor. Put your creativity to work and design something functional or artful. You not only will have fun, you’ll end up with something useful or decorative for your home. (Earth Talk provided this information.)
Dora Bingel Senior Center You’re invited to visit the Dora Bingel Senior Center, 923 N. 38th St., this month for the following: • April 1, 6, 8, 13, 15, 20, 22, 27, & 29: Ceramics @ 9 a.m. • April 4: Book Club @ 10 a.m. • April 4, 11, 18, & 25: Al-Anon meeting @ 7 p.m. • April 5, 12, 19, & 26: Grief Support Group @ 10 a.m. • April 6: Holy Communion @ 10 a.m. • April 20: The Merrymakers present music by Joyce Torchia @ 11:30 a.m. Lunch is $3. • April 27: Birthday party luncheon @ noon. Eat free if you have an April birthday. • April 20: Foot care clinic from 9 a.m. to noon. The cost is $10. • April 28: Red Hats meeting @ 11 a.m. Lunch is served on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. A $1 donation is suggested for the meals other than $3 on Merrymakers Day. Round-trip transportation is available for $3. Reservations are required 24 hours in advance for meals. Other activities offered at the facility include: Tuesday: Free matinee movie @ 12:30 p.m. & quilting @ 1 p.m. Wednesday: Devotions @ 10:30 a.m., Tai Chi @ 11 a.m., Bible study @ 1 p.m., Bingo @ 1 p.m. Friday: Joy Club @ 9:30 a.m. and Bingo @ 1 p.m. For more information, please call 402-898-5854.
Fontenelle Tours
Omaha/Council Bluffs
712-366-9596
Quoted prices are per person, double occupancy. For more information about our tours, please call Ward or Kathy Kinney at Fontenelle Tours at the number listed above.
MOTORCOACH “Beau Jest” at the New Theater. April 28. $139. Join us on a Thursday trip to Kansas City to see a live performance of “Beau Jest” while you enjoy a delicious buffet lunch. This comedy, starring Cindy Williams and Eddie Mekka from ‘Laverne and Shirley’, is the story of Sarah, a nice Jewish girl with a problem: her Mother wants her married to a nice Jewish boy. Her boyfriend isn’t! And there the fun and confusion begins. Hidden Gems in Cheeseland. June 13 - 17. $1,029. A fun five-day adventure including US Mail Boat Tour, Dancing Horses Dinner Theatre, Larsen’s Bakery, Jelly Belly Candy Factory, Mars Cheese Castle, Cristo Rey Ranch (200+ animals and run by nuns), Larsen’s Famous Clydesdales, Exotic Bird Show, a Baby Barn presentation, Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum, and The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium. “Beauty and the Beast” and “Chicago”. July 19 - 20. $315 before 4/19. ($335 after 4/19.) Join us for a trip to Kansas City to see “Beauty and the Beast” at the Starlight Theater, “Chicago” at the New Theater, lunch at a “farm-to-table” restaurant, tour of The Roasterie, IKEA, and the Strawberry Hill Povitica Bakery. “The Music Man” at the Lofte. August 7. $95 before 4/30. ($105 after 4/30.) With his fast-talking style, “Professor” Harold Hill convinces the parents of River City to buy instruments and uniforms for their youngsters, but chaos ensues as Hill’s credentials are questioned and he is called upon to prove himself to the citizens of River City. Dinner afterwards at the Main Street Café in Louisville. Mark Twain and the Amish. August 3 – 5. $459 before 5/3. ($489 after 5/3.) Explore Hannibal, Missouri, take a dinner cruise on the Mark Twain River Boat, RockCliffe Mansion Tour, wine-tasting at the Cave Hollow West Winery, Mark Twain’s Cave, “Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” play, Amish farm tour, shopping, and home-cooked Amish meal in Jamesport. Christ Our Life Catholic Regional Conference. September 24 - 25. Hear the teaching and witnessing of world-renowned Catholic speakers in Des Moines, Iowa, including Mark Hart, Magnus MacFarlane-Barrow, Jesse Romero, Alex Jones, Archbishop Charles Chaput, Bishop Richard Pates, Fr. Tom Hagan, Fr. Michael Schmitz, Jackie Fancois Angel, and Steve Angrisano. Golf Branson. September 28 – October 2. $949 before 6/28. ($999 after 6/28.) Experience Branson’s golf courses on this great five-day trip! Golfers enjoy three days of golfing on three different courses in Branson. Non-golfers come along and enjoy a Paint Party, Farm to Table Lunch Experience, the Titanic Museum, and shopping. Gather back together in the evenings to enjoy dinner and three shows---Pierce Arrow, Million Dollar Quartet, and Showboat Branson Belle. (Non-golfer price is less.) Fall in the Carolinas. October 16 - 23. $1,699 before 6/1. ($1,779 after 6/1.) Mississippi River Cruise, Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Biltmore Estate and Gardens, Antler Hill Village Winery, Blue Ridge Mountain Opry’s “Bluegrass and BBQ” Show, Magnolia Plantation, Charleston city tour, boat trip to Fort Sumter National Historic Park, North Carolina Chimney Rock State Park, “America’s Hit Parade!” Show at the Grand Majestic Theatre, Jim Beam Distillery, and much more. Branson Christmas. November 7 - 10. $689 before 8/7. ($729 after 8/7.) Enjoy Daniel O’Donnell at the Welk Theater, Jim Stafford, Puttin’ On the Ritz (with Dino), Mel Tillis, “All Hands on Deck”, and either “Moses” at the Sight and Sound Theater or the Oak Ridge Boys, including dinner at Landry’s Seafood House. “’Twas The Night Before Christmas” at the Lofte. December 4. $95 before 9/4. ($105 after 9/4.) “…Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.” But a mouse IS stirring……because Santa missed his house last year! Before you can say “Merry Christmas!”, we’re off on the wild adventures of a mouse, an elf, and a spunky little girl who just won’t take no for an answer. This journey is an exciting one for the whole family. Dinner afterwards at the Main Street Café in Louisville. Kansas City Christmas. December 13 - 14. New Theater Restaurant, Webster House Luncheon, and more details coming. Laughlin Laughlin in April. April 11 - 15. $329. Includes non-stop, round-trip airfare to Laughlin, Nevada, four nights lodging at the Riverside Resort and Casino on the banks of the Colorado River, and shuttle transportation to and from the airport. It is a very affordable way to get away for a while. In Partnership with Collette Vacations Quoted prices are per person, double occupancy, and do not include airfare. More destinations available! Reflections of Italy. 10 days from $2449. Visit a land rich in history, culture, art, and romance including Rome, the Colosseum, Assisi, Perugia, Siena, Florence, Chianti Winery, Venice, Murano Island, and Milan. Extend your trip in Turin. Irish Splendor. Eight days from $1699. Return to times gone by as you experience fabulous accommodations, stunning scenery, and sumptuous food visiting Dublin, the Guiness Storehouse, Blarney Castle, Killarney, Dingle Peninsula, Cliffs of Moher, Dromoland Castle, and Tullamore Whiskey Distillery. Extend your trip in Dublin. Watch New Horizons and our website www.fontenelletours.com for our trip schedule. Our address is 11808 Mason Plaza, Omaha, NE 68154
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Fremont Friendship Center
Consuming lemons regularly is a healthy habit When life gives you lemons, take the lemons and make a resolution to be healthier in 2016. Already the perfectly tangy addition to an assortment of food and beverages, lemons also provide an entire host of health benefits. Both easy to use and easy to enjoy, lemons are the answer to a healthier new year. Megan Roosevelt, spokesperson for Limoneira’s Lessons for Life, suggests consuming one lemon a day (juice or pulp) to jumpstart or refresh a healthy lifestyle. Adding a daily lemon can benefit health in the following ways: • Naturally restore the body’s pH levels: Lemons are alkaline-forming in the body and aid in restoring balance in a body’s pH levels. • Fight infections and colds: The high content of vitamin C in lemons work to fight and prevent colds and infections. • Liver detox: In addition to flushing out toxins throughout the body, lemons work to stimulate and detoxify the liver. • Strengthen blood vessels: The bioflavonoid in lemons are handy for aiding in high blood pressure treatment because they can help strengthen blood vessels and prevent internal hemorrhaging.
• Reduce inflammation and pain: A powerful and natural dissolvent of uric acid, lemons help to reduce pain and inflammation in the joints, helping to prevent inflammatory rheumatoid arthritis. • Anti-aging benefit: The vitamin C in lemons helps it to neutralize free radicals, which are linked to aging and disease. • Regulate digestion: Lemons can help regulate digestion by increasing the production of digestive juices. • Potential anti-cancer properties: High in antioxidants, lemons are thought to protect cells from the formation of cancer cells and may also slow the growth of cancer cells. • Lower cholesterol: Lemons are a good source of pectin, a soluble fiber that protects cardiovascular health. • Prevent kidney stones: Consuming lemons can help raise citrate levels in urine, helping prevent the formation of future kidney stones, calcium deposits and gallstones. “Lemons are among the healthiest and most accessible products people can buy from any market,” said John Carter, Limoneira’s director of global sales. “That’s really the best part – lemons are so easy to integrate into everyday lifestyle.”
AARP Tax-Aide program runs through April 18 AARP Tax-Aide program volunteers will be available at several sites in Douglas and Sarpy counties to provide free income tax service to Nebraska residents. A schedule below lists the sites, and the days and times volunteers will be at those sites. The AARP Tax-Aide program is designed primarily for low to middle income older adults, but no one is denied services Walk in sites (Please arrive at the site at least an hour before its closing.) AgeWell 6801 N. 67th Plz. Suite 100 Friday: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bellevue Senior Center 109 W 22nd Ave. Monday & Wednesday 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bellevue University Library 1100 Galvin Rd. Saturday: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Crossroads Mall West corridor 7400 Dodge St. Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, & Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
due to their age or income. At a minimum, taxpayers will need to bring the documents needed to verify all income sources, proof of medical insurance, a photo ID, and Social Security cards for all persons named on the tax return. More information is available online at www.nebraskataxaide.org or by calling 402-398-9582. Montclair Community Center 2304 S. 135th Ave. Tuesday, Wednesday, & Thursday: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. North Christ Child Center 2111 Emmet St. Monday: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday: 4 to 7:30 p.m.
You’re invited to visit the Fremont Friendship Center, 1730 W. 16th St. (Christensen Field), for the following: • April 4: Slide show on Rich Hirshman’s trip to Spain. • April 6: News with Nye at 10 a.m. followed by pianist Wally @ 10:30 a.m. • April 13: Music by Wayne Miller @ 10:30 a.m. April birthday party @ 11:30 a.m. • April 14: Talk on Habitat for Humanity @ 10 a.m. Bingo @ 10:30 a.m. • April 18: Trip to Council Bluffs to see the Squirrel Cage Jail and the Railroad West Museum. We’ll leave @ 10 a.m. and return no later than 3:30 p.m. The $30 cost includes admissions, meal, and transportation. Payment reserves your spot. • April 20: Music by Joyce Korchia @ 10:30 a.m. • April 21: Celebrate Life presentation by Sister Rita @ 10 a.m. Bingo @ 10:30 a.m. • April 26: Movie with Larry @ 10:30 a.m. • April 27: Music by Bill Chrastil @ 10:30 a.m. The Fremont Friendship Center is open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Lunch is served at 11:30 a.m. A $3.50 contribution is suggested for lunch. Reservations must be made by noon the business day prior to the meal you wish to enjoy. For meal reservations and more information, please call Laurie at 402-727-2815.
Camelot Friendship Center You’re invited to visit the Camelot Friendship Center inside the Camelot Community Center, 9270 Cady Ave., for the following: • April 6: Music by Johnny Ray Gomez from the Merrymakers @ 11:45 a.m. • April 12: Entertainment by Dale Thornton @ 11:45 a.m. • April 14: Book Club @ 10:15 a.m. • April 15: Presentation on The Changing Culture of the Omaha Indian Tribe @ noon. • April 18: Chair volleyball @ 10:30 a.m. • April 21: Jackpot Bingo @ 12:15 p.m. • April 28: Methodist College nursing students visit @ 10:15 a.m. Other activities include Tai Chi (Tuesday and Friday @ 10:15 a.m.), Bingo, pinochle, card games, other games, crafts, candy making, and scrapbooking. The Camelot Friendship Center is open weekdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Lunch is served at 11:30 a.m. A $3.50 contribution is suggested for the meal. Reservations are due by noon the business day prior to the lunch you wish to enjoy. For reservations or more information, please call Amy at 402-444-3091.
A Caring Community Called HOME!
Sons of Italy 1238 S. 10th St. Sunday: Noon to 4 p.m. Closed March 20 & 27
Independent & Assisted Living
• No Entrance Fee • Medicaid Waiver Approved • All Utilities & Housekeeping Included • Spacious 1 & 2 Bedroom Apartments
By appointment only
Kids Can Community Center 4860 Q St. Thursday: 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Friday: 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
AARP Information Center 1941 S. 42nd St. Suite 220 Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 402-398-9582 for an appointment
LaVista Community Center 8116 Park View Blvd. Tuesday: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday: 3 to 7 p.m. Thursday: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Kids Can Community Center 4860 Q St. Thursday: 5 to 7 p.m. 402-731-6988 (Call 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for an appointment)
April 2016
49th & Q Street • 402-731-2118 www.southviewheightsomaha.com
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Alzheimer’s support groups The Alzheimer’s Association Nebraska Chapter offers several caregiver support groups and specialty support groups each month in Cass, Dodge, Douglas, and Sarpy counties. These support groups offer valuable space and educational opportunities for families impacted by Alzheimer’s disease or a related form of dementia to engage and learn. Call Elizabeth at 402-502-4301 for more information. CASS COUNTY • PLATTSMOUTH Second Tuesday @ 6 p.m. First Lutheran Church 1025 Ave. D DODGE COUNTY • FREMONT Last Wednesday @ 2 p.m. Nye Square 655 W. 23rd St. Second Tuesday @ 5:30 p.m. Shalimar Gardens 749 E. 29th St. DOUGLAS COUNTY • BENNINGTON Last Thursday @ 6 p.m. Ridgewood Active Retirement Community 12301 N. 149th Cr. • ELKHORN Third Monday @ 6 p.m. Elk Ridge Village Assisted Living 19400 Elk Ridge Dr. • OMAHA Second Thursday @ 10 a.m. Country House 5030 S. 155th St. Adult day services provided. Every other Monday @ 7 p.m. Brighton Gardens 9220 Western Ave. Third Wednesday @ 3 p.m. Fountain View Senior Living 5710 S 108th St.
First & third Monday @ 1:30 p.m. New Cassel/Franciscan Centre 900 N. 90th St. Adult day services are provided on-site. • OMAHA Third Tuesday @ 5 p.m. Immanuel Fontenelle 6809 N 68th Plz. Second Tuesday @ 5:30 p.m. Heritage Pointe 16811 Burdette St. First Thursday @ 6:30 p.m. Early Stage Support Group Security National Bank 1120 S. 101st St. REGISTRATION REQUIRED Second or third Saturday @ 11 a.m. Caring for Your Parents Call Teri @ 402-393-0434 for location SARPY COUNTY • BELLEVUE Third Monday @ 7 p.m. Bellevue Senior Center 109 W. 22nd Ave. First Wednesday @ 1 p.m. Eastern Nebraska Vets Home 12505 S. 40th St.
Second Tuesday @ 5:30 p.m. Heritage Ridge 1502 Fort Crook Rd. South
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Czech-Slovak festival at Millard Social Hall
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he Omaha Czech Cultural Club is hosting its anhen Cpl. Matt Foster left Afghanistan after his nual Czech-Slovak tour of duty in 2013, he didn’t know whether Festival on Sunday, April he would ever see his K-9 partner again. 17 from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For nine months, Foster and Sgt. Mick, a at the Millard Social Hall, black Labrador retriever, lived and worked together keep10508 S. 144th St. (south ing the military compound at Camp Leatherneck and the surrounding area in Helmand Province safe from explosive of Interstate 80 at the Sapp Brothers exit). attack. Featured will be a deliAfter being honorably discharged from the Marine cious Czech meal including Corps, Foster did not give up in his quest to adopt Mick. roast pork, sausage, sauerThe 7-year-old Lab had been discharged for medical reakraut, and dumplings served sons, and Foster said he lost count of the number of adopfrom 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Hot tion forms he sent attempting to be reunited with his dog. dog plates will be available Ultimately, Foster’s quest to reconnect with Mick was for the children. Czech beer successful, and they are together again living in Colorado. will be offered at the cash “When I first got Mick back, I was worried that I might bar. not be able to take care of him,” he recalled. “After what A button accordion jamyou go through with your dog in the service and then adopt them afterward, you wouldn’t want to say goodbye to your boree will open the day, fol--Please turn to page 8. lowed by the coronation of the 2016-17 Omaha Czech Queen, princess, and prince. The Southeast Nebraska Czech Bagpipe Band will entertain with folk music and singing. Angie Kriz and the Polkatoons from Clarkson, Neb. will play for the polka dance from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Other activities include a bake sale with delicious kolaces, home-baked rye bread, and gingerbread cookie decorating. Vendors featuring beautiful Czech and Slovak items and foods will also be available. For more information, please go online to www.omahaczechclub.com.
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Elder Access Line
Fourth Thursday @ 6 p.m. Hillcrest Health Services 1804 Hillcrest Dr.
The Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging has been serving older adults in Douglas, Sarpy, Dodge, Cass, and Washington counties since 1975.
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Foundation helps find homes for retired military, police K-9s
Senior Deputy Sheriff Danielle Delpit with Dano, her 7 1/2-year-old K-9 partner.
Drop off unused, expired meds at six sites on Saturday, April 30 The national Drug Enforcement Administration is hosting a drug take back event on Saturday, April 30 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at six sites in the Omaha area (see below for a list of the locations). The event is designed to remove unused or expired medications from homes to help prevent misuse or abuse. An Omaha Police Department officer will be at each site to dispose of the pharmaceutical controlled substances. Here are the sites where the medications can be dropped off:
• Hy-Vee 3505 L St.
• Walgreens 8389 Harrison St.
• Hy-Vee 1000 S. 178th St.
• Walgreens 10725 Fort St.
• Walgreens 3005 Lake St.
• Walgreens 13155 W. Center Rd.
April 2016
Legal Aid of Nebraska operates a free telephone access line for Nebraskans age 60 and older. Information is offered to help the state’s older men and women with questions on topics like bankruptcy, homestead exemptions, collections, powers of attorney, Medicare, Medicaid, grandparent rights, and Section 8 housing.
The telephone number for the Elder Access Line is 402-827-5656 in Omaha and 1-800-527-7249 statewide. This service is available to Nebraskans age 60 and older regardless of income, race, or ethnicity. For more information, log on the Internet to http:// www.legalaidofnebraska. com/EAL.
Herbs, spices enhance food flavor Discover new and exciting tastes while trimming fat and sodium from your cooking. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics encourages everyone to experiment with new combinations of herbs and spices as you “savor the flavor of eating right.” “Today’s popular cuisine embraces a wide world of flavors you can enjoy in all sorts of combinations, while still following a healthful eating pattern,” says registered dietitian nutritionist and academy spokesperson Libby Mills. It’s worthwhile to note the difference between herbs and spices, Mills says. “Herbs, like basil and oregano, grow in temperate climates and are the fragrant leaves of plants. Spices, like cumin and paprika, grow in tropical areas and come from the bark, buds, fruit, roots, seeds, and stems of plants and trees.” Innovative use of herbs and spices offers a real flavor advantage, especially if your goal is to cook with less fat and sodium. “While the exact types of herbs and spices depends on the cuisine, every culture has its traditional favorites,” Mills says. She offers a list of popular ethnic cuisines and the flavors associated with them: China: low-sodium soy sauce, rice wine,
and ginger. France: thyme, rosemary, sage, marjoram, lavender, and tomato. Greece: olive oil, lemon, and oregano. Hungary: onion and paprika. India: curry, cumin, ginger, and garlic. Italy: tomato, olive oil, garlic, basil, and marjoram. Mexico: tomato, chili, and paprika. Middle East: olive oil, lemon, and parsley. Morocco/North Africa: cinnamon, cumin, coriander, and ginger. West Africa: tomato and peanut. In addition, Mills recommends keeping a basic assortment of dried herbs and spices on hand for all types of cooking including oregano, garlic powder, thyme, paprika, cinnamon, nutmeg, chili powder, Italian herb seasoning blend, thyme, and rosemary. “Then, explore new flavors beyond these basics with curry powder, turmeric, cumin, clove, and bay leaf and experiment with new flavor combinations. Remember to store dried herbs and spices in airtight containers in a cool, dark cupboard or pantry,” Mills says. The Academy’s website (www.eatright. org) includes helpful articles, recipes, videos, and educational resources to spread the message of good nutrition and an overall healthy lifestyle for people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds.
AARP offering driving course AARP is offering a new four-hour, research-based Smart Driver Course for older adults. By completing the course, participants will learn research-based driving safety strategies that can reduce the likelihood of having an accident; understand the links between the driver, the vehicle, and the road environment, and how this awareness encourages safer driving; learn how aging, medications, alcohol, and health-related issues affect driving ability and ways to allow for these changes; increase confidence; know how to share the road safely with other drivers, and learn the newest safety and advance features in vehicles. The fee is $15 for AARP members and $20 for nonAARP members. No tests or examinations are involved, course completion certificates are provided, and auto insurance discounts may apply. Here’s this month’s schedule: Wednesday, April 6 Noon Woodbridge Senior Village 7205 N. 73rd Plz. Cir. 402-573-5555 to register
Tuesday, April 19 9 a.m. Immanuel Trinity Village 522 W. Lincoln St. Papillion 402-614-5500 to register
Saturday, April 9 1 p.m. AARP Information Center 1941 S. 42nd St. Suite 220 402-398-9568 to register
Wednesday, April 20 9 a.m. Rolling Hills Ranch 4324 N 132nd St. 402-598-5845 to register
Friday, April 15 9 a.m. Metro Community College 9110 Giles Rd. 402-457-5231 to register
Saturday, April 23 10 a.m. Walnut Grove Retirement Community 4901 S. 153rd St. 402-861-1611 to register
Sweet Adelines’ fashion show, luncheon set for Saturday, April 23 at 11 a.m.
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ou’re invited to attend the Acappella Omaha Chorus of Sweet Adelines International’s presentation of its Spring Style Show and salad luncheon on Saturday, April 23. The 11 a.m. to 1:30 event will be held at Faith Presbyterian Church, 8100 Giles Rd. in LaVista. Tickets, which are $15, are available from any Sweet Adelines member or by calling 402-932-0155.
The Sierra Group, LLC FREE Book & CD Call Us: (800) 309-0753
April 2016
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Homes for dogs...
The values of straw bale gardening
--Continued from page 6. partner because you couldn’t afford to take care of him.” Once military and police dogs retire, with no guaranteed pension for their medical care, the burden and cost of care often fall solely on their caregivers. Now an advocate for military dog adoption, Foster has joined The Sage Foundation for Dogs Who Serve and the RIMADYL K-9 Courage program to help other retired military dogs and handlers. The RIMADYL K-9 Courage Program is a charitable healthcare donation program that, together with The Sage Foundation and National Police Dog Foundation, provides financial and in-kind product donations of $150,000 annually to support the veterinary needs for up to 500 retired police and military K-9s. Despite being considered an officer of his county’s sheriff’s office, Dano is another retired working dog whose veterinary needs and expenses will mount after retirement. “Dano is an extraordinary dog,” said Senior Deputy Sheriff Danielle Delpit of her K-9 partner. “He’s been injured, tazed, and Cpl. Matt Foster and his K-9 involved in two partner Sgt. Mick. critical incidents.” Recently, Delpit noticed that Dano, now 7 1/2 years old, was slowing down and she reluctantly decided it was time for him to retire. After Dano’s retirement, it became Delpit’s responsibility to care for him. “While on active duty, Dano’s veterinary care was covered. But now that he’s retired, it is up to me,” she explained. “Dano has injuries; he has a bad back and I know he will eventually have arthritis. The RIMADYL K-9 Courage Program will give me peace of mind to know I’ll have help to give him the healthcare he deserves.”
By Melinda Myers
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n estimated 1,775 military dogs are actively working to protect military personnel. Each dog saves as many as 150 to 200 service men and women by detecting explosives and hidden weapons caches. The Sage Foundation for Dogs Who Serve (www.sagefoundationfordogs.org) works to promote the welfare of dogs that have faithfully served in wars, police work, crime prevention, and rescue. Their work includes education and public awareness, as well as making medical care available for these hero dogs. Law enforcement dogs are used at the local, county, state, and federal levels, and are considered full-fledged police officers. Unlike their human counterparts, however, these officers do not receive a pension. With a mission of making K-9 teams mission-ready and self-sustaining, the National Police Dog Foundation (www.nationalpolicedogfoundation.org) provides funding for the purchase, training, and medical needs for police dogs through retirement. Learn how you can support retired police and military dogs at www.rimadylk9courage.com. (Family Features provides this information.)
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dd productive garden space and raise your planting bed with straw bale gardening. This technique allows gardeners to create raised bed gardens on a patio, lawn, or any area with poor compacted soil. Straw bale gardening has been around for centuries, but thanks to Joel Karsten’s book Straw Bale Gardens, it has gained new popularity. All that’s needed are a few straw bales, fertilizer, a bit of compost, and time to condition, plant, and water the garden. Be sure to purchase straw bales made from alfalfa, wheat, oats, rye, or other cereal grain that have less weed seeds than hay. Start a few weeks before the designated planting date. Place the bales in their permanent location with the cut sides up and twine parallel to the ground. Once you start the condition process, the bales will be very heavy and hard to move. When the bales are in place you’re ready to start the conditioning process. This is done to start the inside of the straw bales composting so they’ll support plant growth. On day one, spread fertilizer over the top of the bale. Use a ½ cup of a complete garden fertilizer or three cups of an organic fertilizer. Then completely moisten the bale. The organic fertilizers feed the microorganisms that help decompose the straw into a nutrient rich planting medium. Thoroughly soak the bale everyday. On days three and five you will add more fertilizer at the same rate used on day one. Days seven through nine use half the rate used on day one. This would be ¼ cup of a complete garden fertilizer or 1 & ½ cups of an organic
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fertilizer. Thoroughly water the bale each time. On the tenth day you’ll add one cup of 10-10-10 or three cups of an organic fertilizer rich in phosphorous and potassium. This completes the conditioning process. Bales treated with a complete fertilizer should be ready to plant. You may need to wait a few more days when using an organic fertilizer. The inside of the bale should be the temperature of warm bath water or cooler for planting. If it’s hotter than this, wait for the bale to cool a bit before you plant. Use a trowel to pry open a hole in the bale. Place the plant in the hole and cover the roots with potting mix or compost. Create a planting bed for seeds by covering the bale with a one to two-inch thick layer of planting mix. Follow the planting directions on the back of the seed packet.
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egular watering is critical for success with this method. Soaker hoses or drip irrigation make this an easier task. You can also use gallon milk jugs with holes in the bottom or inverted two-liter soda bottles placed near the base of each plant to provide water where it’s needed. Give your straw bale garden a nutrient boost about once a month or as needed throughout the growing season. Follow these steps and you’ll be well on your way to growing a productive straw bale garden to enjoy throughout the season. (Gardening expert Myers has more than 30 years of horticulture experience and has written more than 20 gardening books.)
Heartland Generations Center You’re invited to visit the Heartland Generations Center – 4318 Fort St. – for the following: • April 4: Birthday party with music by Kim Eames from the Merrymakers @1 p.m. Free sundaes to all April birthday babies. • April 11: WhyArts working with clay class with Richard Chung @10 a.m. • April 14: Hospice presentation @ 10:45 a.m. • April 15 & 29: Methodist College nursing students will provide blood pressure and blood sugar checks, etc. • April 17: Senior Prom at the Field Club from 4 to 7 p.m. The fun will include prom pictures, entertainment, dinner, and dancing. For reservations, send $10 to Karen Sides @ 4318 Fort St., Omaha, Neb. 68111 • April 21: Trip to the Ak-Sar-Ben Aquarium in Gretna. • April 26: Why Arts Family Night from 6 to 7:30 featuring a taco dinner, arts, and percussionist Michael Fitzsimmons. The Heartland Generations Center is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Lunch is normally served at noon. A $3.50 donation is suggested for the meal. Reservations are due by noon the business day prior to the lunch you wish to attend. Transportation is available within select neighborhoods for 50 cents each way. Regular activities include Bingo (Wednesday @ 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. and Friday @ 10:30 a.m.), crafts, and free Tai Chi classes (Tuesday and Thursday @ 10:45 a.m.) For meal reservations, please call 402-553-5300.
Genealogy courses offered through June
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he Greater Omaha Genealogical Society is offering a series of free classes each month through June. Each session will run from 9:15 a.m. to noon. To register and for more information, please contact Merrily at 402-706-1453 or genclass@aol.com. Here are the dates, topics, and locations: • April 16 Family Search & Family Tree Mormon Trail Center 3215 State St. • May 16: Research in Books & Films W. Dale Clark Library 512 S 15th St. • June 28 Computer Research TBA
DID YOU KNOW
Please see the ad on page 3
New Horizons is available ONLINE?
New Horizons Club growing $20 Carole Yanovich
Go to enoa.org
$15 Virginia Swierczek Thomas Cody
• Click on
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$10 Marilynn Allen Mary Ann Dyer Colette Piccolo
• Click on the
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to see the online version.
$5 Marjorie Stohler Isabelle Clinkenbeard Kristina Tooman Mary Nefzger Marilyn Larson Dwaine Schuttler
then… scroll down and click on
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For more information, please call 402-444-6654
Relects donations through March 25, 2016.
Nebraska Senior Medicare Patrol
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ebraska Senior Medicare Patrol, a Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services program that works to educate and empower older adults to help prevent health care fraud offers 10 tips to help you avoid Medicare scams. • Don’t provide your Medicare number to anyone except your trusted health care provider. • Ask friends and neighbors to pick up your mail while you’re away from home. • Shred important documents before throwing them away. • Read Medicare summary notices carefully looking for possible mistakes. • Use a calendar or health care journal to record information from doctor visits. • Compare your calendar or health care journal with your Medicare summary notices. • Count your prescription pills. If the total is less than expected, go back and tell the pharmacist. • Medicare Part D plans change annually. • Don’t speak to anyone claiming to be a Medicare representative about Medicare. • Medicare loses billions of dollars each year. It’s up to you to help fight fraud. If you believe you may be a victim of Medicare fraud, please call the Nebraska Senior Medicare Patrol at 800-942-7830.
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NHS head Varner personifies what it means to be humane
Judy Varner says she’s seen the best and the very worst ways human beings treat animals. By Nick Schinker
off a cliff and brought home three dogs in two months.” When she came aboard, the Nebraska Humane he word “humane” means “characterized Society was little more than a roster of dogcatchby kindness, comers who desperately wanted passion, and sympathy for to do more. Dogfighting other beings, especially for the suffering or distressed.” was prevalent in Omaha, as With that definition in mind, evidenced by the bitten and bruised canines being taken anyone who knows her or in by the shelter, but prehas listened to her would cious little was being done agree that Judy Varner to stop it. The NHS facilities personifies the qualities of were as woeful as the faces being humane. For the past 18 years, Var- of the cats and dogs they housed. ner has worked a job many Varner accepted the role of us could do for no more as leader and proceeded to than a day or two at the change all that. She took in most. She is the president the animals that were being and CEO of the Nebraska mistreated and worked to Humane Society. In that take down those who did the role, she has seen the best mistreating. The number of and the very worst ways search warrants for homes people treat animals, and where animals were suswhile she has likely cried pected of being mistreated a bucket full of tears, her heart has never hardened to jumped from about a dozen a year before she arrived those who need her. to 45 in her first year. “The “I can maintain my comshelter needed to become posure pretty good, then all more aggressive,” she of a sudden, I’ll fall off a recalls, “which is an undercliff,” Varner says. “I fell Contributing Writer
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statement.” As the years passed, the Nebraska Humane Society grew from an outdated, 23,000-square-foot building to a full campus encompassing four buildings totaling more than 100,000 square feet near 90th and Fort streets. She has been instrumental in getting people to open their hearts and their wallets. With Varner at the helm, the NHS has successfully completed several capital campaigns for improvements, established a foundation to manage and increase the endowment fund – totaling approximately $12 million – and implemented programs to benefit the animals and the community. Today, the NHS has an annual budget of $10 million, employs 150 people supplemented by hundreds of dedicated volunteers, and provides care for more than 20,000 animals annually. Varner is proud of what she has helped to accomplish and believes it’s time to move on. She will officially retire April 30, the evening of the NHS’ Black Tie and Tails gala. She says she will hang around to help with the transition to a new leader, if she’s needed, but promises she won’t be nipping at their heels to do things her way. “When I came in, this place needed someone who knew the operations piece,” she says. “We have that now. Going forward, we need someone who will be more involved in the community.”
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udy Varner was born in Texas. Her father, Durward B. “Woody” Varner (nicknamed for his boyhood home in Cottonwood, Texas), was an Aggie from Texas A&M University. Her mother, Paula, was a Baylor University Bear. Durward and Paula met on a blind date. In 1959, Woody Varner moved his family to Michigan to become the first chancellor of Oakland University in Rochester, Mich. In 1970, he was named the 17th chancellor of the University of Nebraska system. Varner stayed in that position until 1976 when he became chair of the board of the University of Nebraska Foundation. In his 10 years with the foundation, its assets grew from $27 million to $130 million. Judy went to high school in Rochester – and says she hated every minute. “When I was in high school, I spent my whole life riding my horse.” Attending a small liberal arts college in Michigan, “I probably had being a teacher in mind,” she recalls. “I studied sociology and political science, and I went into social work.” Social work was a real education. “I grew up with Ozzie and Harriet in an ideal lifestyle,” she says. “Then I learned racism from the perspective of the minority.” Varner served in a program for low income, pregnant young women in Hartford, Conn. “In the ’60s, if you got pregnant you got thrown out of high school,” she says. “It was
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Your home is best and Immanuel Pathways’ goal is to help you continue living in your home as long as possible. Our program provides a complete system of health care. The service is called PACE, which stands for: Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly. We provide primary and hospital care as well as prescription drugs, transportation and so much more to our participants. Services are provided in the home, at the PACE Center and in the community. For complete program details and benefits, please call 402-991-0330.
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up to us social workers and some nurses to help the girls get their high school diplomas and learn to care for their babies. We were their advocates.” It was also a volatile time when tension over racism and segregation sparked riots across the nation. “People talk about the Black Panthers as violent, but from my experience in Hartford, the Black Panthers ran a breakfast program for school children who couldn’t afford to eat,” she says. “They knew what we were doing in the community, and they appreciated our efforts. When the riots broke out, they came into our office and said, ‘It’s time for you to leave.’ They put us on the floor of our cars and drove us to where we’d be safe.” Varner said experiences like that, and a semester she spent in the poor community in Philadelphia, changed her life. “I saw how the world lacks empathy. When I was in Philly, I thought, ‘I’m only here for four months. But to be living on the other side, it never ends. “Racism is an abomination. And not just racism. It’s people treating people unfairly. It’s people treating animals unfairly.” Varner can’t ignore either situation.
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arried to her first husband, Varner lived in Ohio, then moved to Iowa where she ran community action programs in six counties. Moving to East Lansing, Mich., she saw an ad for a director of a humane society. “I had never even been in a humane society, but I’d had plenty of pets and animals, so I applied,” she said. “I was their first director.” It was a startling challenge. “The place was like something out of a Stephen King movie. It was awful. But I was impressed by the relationships between the people and the animals. My father said, ‘Do you think you can make a difference?’” She did – beginning with raising funds for a new building and an endowment. “The key to the longevity of any humane society or animal protection entity is the stupidity of the human race,” she says. “Look at how people will force a child to go up to a strange dog. If we did more to educate parents about children --Please turn to page 11.
Judy: ‘If an animal needs help, we’re going to help it’ --Continued from page 10. and dogs, and about dogs and dogs, we could avoid a lot of the dog bites and bad situations. “Dogs and cats can communicate with each other but humans don’t understand the language. Yet, humans talk to a pet and assume the animal will understand what they’re saying.” You can’t stop a dog from being a dog, Varner says. If a dog is left alone in a yard all day, or in a house alone all day, it will become bored and dig in the yard or chew on the carpet or furniture. Then the owner will come home and discipline the dog for doing what comes naturally. “Dogs don’t want to be alone,” Varner says. “They’re pack animals. So they find ways to cope with being lonely and bored. Then, when the human family, which is now their ‘pack,’ returns home at the end of the day, instead of receiving the love and affection they crave, the pack yells at them.” She says the humane alternative would be to crate the dog when it has to be left alone. “It’s not cruel. These areas can be made into special, good, positive places with toys and blankets and food. There are benefits for the owners and the animals, but people just don’t understand.” They have to be told.
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tanding in the lobby of the NHS main adoption facility, Varner reaches out to shake the hand of an acquaintance. Except she can’t shake hands, because her right arm is in a cast from her fingers to her elbow. A week before, her wrist was broken in a mishap with her horse, Miles. That led to surgery and the placement of five metal pins. “This time, I was the stupid human,” she says. “I misread my horse’s signals.” Horses are simple animals, she explains. They either utilize their right brain, which means their feet are moving as if they are about to be bitten by a rattlesnake, or they utilize their left brain and think about what they’re doing. “It was a beautiful day, one of the warmest of the year so far, and he was as high as a kite. Unfortunately, I never got him switched over to the left brain.” When some other horses
During Judy’s 18 years with the NHS, nearly 143,000 animals have been adopted into new homes. entered the stables, Miles caught sight of them out of the corner of his eye.
“I was brushing him and not paying attention. He moved suddenly and
bumped me and I went flying,” Varner says. “I reached out to break my fall with my right hand but all I broke was my wrist.” Varner doesn’t blame her horse. After all, he was just being a horse. “Had I stopped, taken the time, and calmed him down, everything would have been fine. So shame on me. I guess I’m just as stupid as any other human when it comes to animals.” Whether or not that’s true, what is evident is the depth of Varner’s compassion. In her nearly two decades at the NHS, nearly 143,000 animals have been adopted into new homes and more than 54,600 have been returned to grateful owners.
“We are an open-entry shelter,” she explains. “If there is an animal that needs help, we’re going to help it.” The vision of the Nebraska Humane Society has evolved to a holistic approach for the entire community – and the goal of providing a good home for every pet taken in by the year 2020. That requires behavior advice and training for owners to help keep pets in homes, resources for people on fixed incomes, and general educational programs. Varner stresses that none of what she has accomplished has been achieved single-handedly. Volunteers, along with staff, play a vital --Please turn to page 17.
DEALING WITH VISION LOSS OR BLINDNESS? Come to the Visually Impaired Community Resource Fair Sponsored by Outlook Nebraska, Inc.
April 30, 2016 | 9AM-2PM Westroads Mall, VonMaur Court Dozens of local resources available to assist those dealing with visual impairment and blindness Visit www.outlooknebraska.org/ResourceFair for more information.
EXHIBITORS: Nebraska Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired • NanoPac, Inc. Radio Talking Book Service • UNMC Weigel Williamson Center for Visual Rehabilitation Boys Town National Research Hospital • Share A Fare, Inc. • Omaha Council of the Blind National Federation of the Blind Omaha Chapter • LIONS EYE BANK OF NEBRASKA Magnification Resources, Inc.
www.outlooknebraska.org
April 2016
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Medicare Rights Center examines Obama’s 2017 Medicare proposals
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he President’s 2017 budget advances many worthwhile proposals for people with Medicare and their families. Among these are recommendations to rein in the rising cost of prescription drugs, to align the enrollment and appeals processes for low-income beneficiaries, and to advance value-driven delivery and payment system reforms. The Medicare Rights Center shares the President’s deep concern about the rapidly rising cost of prescription drugs. It’s encouraged by the President’s commitment to transparency and value expressed through proposals that would allow Medicare to evaluate the effectiveness of high-cost medications and require pharmaceutical companies to disclose information on how prescription drugs are priced. It also continues to strongly support proposals to allow the federal government to negotiate prices for breakthrough medicines, restore Medicare’s ability to benefit from the same manufacturer discounts that Medicaid receives, and accelerate closure of the Part D prescription drug coverage gap (or doughnut hole). These policies represent sensible savings solutions that do no harm to people with Medicare.
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he Medicare Rights Center applauds the President for the budget’s focus on key policy improvements critical to the most vulnerable. The President’s request includes proposals to simplify the appeals process for beneficiaries dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid and to align enrollment processes for federal assistance programs that help people with Medicare afford Part B and Part D premiums and cost sharing. These proposals would alleviate known barriers to accessing needed health care services for low-income beneficiaries. While there are many recommendations in the President’s final budget request to celebrate, the Medicare Rights Center remains deeply concerned by proposals that would shift the burden of higher health care costs to lowincome and middle class beneficiaries, such as policies to further means test Medicare premiums, add a home health copayment, increase the Part B deductible, and hike brand name drug copayments for low-income beneficiaries. (The Medicare Rights Center provided this information.)
Volunteers needed
Entertaining shows at Walnut Grove
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You’re invited to attend a series of free entertainment programs during April and May in the theater at the Walnut Grove Resort Lifestyle Community, 4901 S. 153rd St.
new report from the National Council on Aging (NCOA) shows that older adult household borrowing has increased significantly in the past decade, with over 61 percent of households headed by an adult aged 60+ carrying some form of debt. Older Adults and Debt: Trends, Trade-offs, and Tool to Help highlights how much of this debt accumulates from the basic costs of living. Findings include: • Among older households with debt, the median total debt was $40,900 in 2013—more than double what it was in 2001.
• April 5 @ 1 p.m. Music by Kim Eames • April 26 @ 1 p.m. Music by Johnny Ray Gomez • May 3 @ 1 p.m. The Great Tribute by Bill Chrastil • May 24 @ 1 p.m. Music by Billy Troy For more information, please call 402-861-1611.
211 network The 211 telephone network has been established in parts of Nebraska to give consumers a single source for information about community and human services. By dialing 211, consumers can access information about: • Human needs resources like food banks, shelters, rent and utility assistance, etc. • Physical and mental health resources. • Employment support. • Support for older Americans and persons with a disability. • Support for children and families. • Volunteering.. VOTES WANTED PLEASE GO TO
www.lightthebridge.org
The Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging is looking for volunteer drivers for its Meals on Wheels Program.
NCOA: Older adult household borrowing rising significantly
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HorizonAD-2010:HorizonAD-08 address hunger.
Flexible weekday schedule delivering midday meals to homebound older adults in the greater Omaha area.
• One-third of older homeowners owed money on a mortgage or home equity line of credit, with 30 percent owing payments that exceeded one-quarter of their income. • Older households taking payday loans increased fourfold from 2007 to 2013 (0.5 percent to 2.2 percent). The report includes findings from a survey of professionals who work with older adults in a variety of community settings. Among those who frequently encounter older adults with debt: • More than 90 percent said medical debt threatened their clients’ financial security, followed by credit card debt (87 percent) and household utilities (84 percent). • Nearly a quarter found their older clients were forgoing needed home and vehicle repairs because of debt. • They routinely see older men and women making financial trade-offs such as splitting pills, skipping medical appointments, and missing rent or mortgage payments. “The trade-offs that seniors make to manage debt can have serious negative consequences on their health and financial well-being,” said Maggie Flowers, associate director for economic security at NCOA. “We need to recognize that debt is a problem among this population, and help prepare older adults to better manage their future medical, housing, and other daily expenses as they age.” NCOA offers two tools that can help older adults make the most of their money and the resources available to them. EconomicCheckUp® is a free online service that can help older adults reduce their debt, find work, and cut spending. BenefitsCheckUp® – also free and confidential – screens individuals for programs that can help them pay for health care, food, and household expenses. Since 2001, BenefitsCheckUp® has helped 4.8 million people find over $15.8 billion in benefits. “We cannot prevent financial crises from occurring,” added Flowers. “As longevity increases, the more vulnerable we become to outliving our resources. But there is support out there. By educating and connecting older adults to those resources, we can reduce the likelihood they incur 2/4/10 8:00 AM Page 1 debt, so they can stay independent longer.”
Attorneys at Law William E. Seidler Jr.
Call Arlis at 402-444-6766 for more information.
www.seidler-seidler-law.com 10050 Regency Circle, Suite 525 Omaha, NE 68114-5705
402-397-3801
Delivering quality legal services since 1957.
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NARFE meets monthly The National Active and Retired Federal Employees’ Chapter 144 meets the first Wednesday of each month at 11:30 a.m. at the Amazing Pizza Machine, 13955 S Plz. For more information, please call 402-292-1156. The National Active and Reired Federal Employees’ Aksarben Chapter 1370 meets the second Wednesday of each month at 11:30 a.m. at the Amazing Pizza Machine, 13955 S Plz. For more information, please call 402-342-4351.
Omaha Computer Users Group
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ou’re invited to join the Omaha Computer Users Group (OCUG), an organization dedicated to helping men and women age 50 and older learn more about their computers. Anyone can join OCUG regardless of his or her computer skills. The organization’s 50 members meet the third Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon at the Abrahams Library, 5111 N. 90th St.
Annual dues to OCUG, which has existed for 15 years, are $25. OCUG has a projector connected to a Microsoft Windows 7 computer and a Windows 8 computer to show users how to solve their computer problems. Bring your questions concerning your computer problems to the meetings for answers. For more information, please call OCUG’s president Phill Sherbon at 402333-6529.
OFD can install free smoke, carbon monoxide detectors The Omaha Fire Department’s Public Education and Affairs Department is available to install free smoke and/or carbon monoxide detectors inside the residences of area homeowners. To have a free smoke and/or carbon monoxide detector installed inside your home, send your name, address, and telephone number to: Omaha Fire Department Smoke/Carbon Monoxide Requests 10245 Weisman Dr. Omaha, NE 68134 For more information, please call 402-444-3560.
Hearing loss group meets April 12 The Omaha Area Hearing Loss Association of America, a support group for hard of hearing adults, will meet on Tuesday, April 12 at Dundee Presbyterian Church, 5312 Underwood Ave. Participants are asked to enter the church on the Happy Hollow Blvd. (east) side. The 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. meeting will feature social
time and a speaker. The Omaha Area Hearing Loss Association of America meets the second Tuesday of the month from September through December and from March through August. For more information, please contact Beth Ellsworth at ellsworth.beth@ cox.net or Verla Hamilton at 402-558-6449.
Papillion singers
VOTES WANTED
Older adults who love to sing and have Tuesdays free to practice and perform are being recruited to join the Papillion Senior Singers. For more information, please contact Rajaena Appleby at rajaena@cox.net or 402-650-8770.
www.lightthebridge.org
PLEASE GO TO
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Book review series continues April 19 The Eclectic Book Review Club, which began its series of reviews in 1949, has announced its spring 2016 schedule. Monthly meetings, which include lunch and a book review, are held at noon at the Omaha Field Club, 3615 Woolworth Ave. 0The cost is $13 per person each month. • April 19: Local author Rebecca Rotert will review her book Last Night at the Blue Angel. • May 17: Joy Johnson will discuss her eighth book in The BOOB Girls series (The Burned Out Old Broads at Table 12). For reservations, call Rita at 402-553-3147.
The New Horizons is brought to you each month by the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging
Some things to remember if you’re considering downsizing your home By Ben Souchek
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f you’ve noticed a few details about your living environment that are difficult to ignore, it might be time to consider downsizing. People may wonder how to move from the home they’ve lived in for years to a smaller, but more comfortable space. Without jumping to any conclusions about the accessibility or convenience of your home, the amount of discomfort that comes with downsizing is normal for people as they age especially for those who aren’t in great health. There are certain discomforts that might signal a space isn’t suitable for the mobility, budget, and convenience of a homeowner. In these cases, downsizing may be the best option. There are a few questions you should ask if you’re considering downsizing. First and most important: what are your daily needs? Are those needs being supported by the size and layout of the home? Are you able to move freely about the home to do your daily tasks without the danger of falling or hurting yourself? Think about stairs, steps, doorways, toilet, and shower convenience, and yard or garden size. Are these parts of the home easily accessible? Another consideration is your distance to family, friends, and community. A support system is vital throughout life, and downsizers often look for places that have the additional benefit of community, or even better, living closer to family. It’s important to plan ahead for the big move into a smaller space and to prepare early to make the transition as seamless as possible. For more information go online to HomeDownsizingSolutions.com.
We need your
! t r o p p su
I would like to become a partner with the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging, and help fulfill your mission with older adults.
ENOA
Traditional funding sources are making it more difficult for ENOA to fulfill its mission. Partnership opportunities are available to businesses and individuals wanting to help us. These opportunities include volunteering, memorials, honorariums, gift annuities, and other contributions.
$30 = 7 meals or 1.75 hours of in-home homemaker services or 1 bath aide service for frail older adults. $75 = 17 meals or 4.75 hours of in-home homemaker services or 4 bath aide services for frail older adults. $150 = 35 meals or 9.5 hours of in-home homemaker services or 8 bath aide services for frail older adults. $300 = 70 meals or 19.25 hours of in-home homemaker services or 16 bath aide services for frail older adults. Other amount (please designate)__________________________ Please contact me. I would like to learn more about how to include the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging in my estate planning. Please ma il with thisyofour donation rm to: Eas
tern Office oNebraska n Aging Address:___________________________________ Attention : Jef Name:_____________________________________
City:______________State:_____ Zip: __________ Phone:____________________________________
f Reinha 4223 C rdt Omaha, enter Street NE 6810 5-2431 (402
• Please vote today to address hunger.
April 2016
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A healthy mind, body, spirit require planning
Program designed for caregivers of persons who have dementia
VAS can help you fill out your Homestead Exemption forms
egistration is underway for a free educational series that will help caregivers understand how to provide the best possible care for their loved ones with dementia. Learning to Live with Dementia focuses on the various types of dementia and how to manage symptoms. The spring program will be held May 7 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at St. Timothy’s Lutheran Church, 510 N. 93rd St. The series will be repeated in the fall, with sessions held Sept. 10 and Oct. 8 at the Servite Center of Compassion, 7400 Military Ave. The four components of the program are: dementia basics, mystery and reality of living with different dementias, person-centered care, and compassionate care. To register for the spring series, contact Chris Lund at clund@sttimothys.com or 402-391-1144. To register for the fall series, contact Sister Margaret Stratman at 402-951-3026 or scc@osms.org. For more information, contact Nancy Flaherty at 402-312-9324 or flahertyconsulting@cox.net.
re you aware you may be able to save money on your property taxes? The Nebraska Homestead Exemption program provides relief from property taxes to individuals age 65 and over with limited income, veterans, and individuals with certain disabilities. See page 3 for more information.
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VOTES WANTED PLEASE GO TO
www.lightthebridge.org 100% non-profit addressing hunger VOTES TO DATE • For: 3,076 • Please vote today to address hunger.
By Nancy Hemesath
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Sponsored by Outlook Nebraska, Inc.
WHITMORE LAW OFFICE
Resource fair for the visually impaired scheduled for April 30 at the Westroads
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Wills • Trusts • Probate
ou’re invited to attend the Visually Impaired Community Resource Fair on Saturday, April 30 in the Von Maur Court at the Westroads Mall. Sponsored by Outlook Nebraska, Inc., the fair will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and feature dozens of local resources available to help persons with visual impairments and blindness. Exhibitors will include the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging, the Nebraska Commission for the Blind, NanoPac, Inc., Radio Talking Book, UNMC’s Weigel Williamson Center for Visual Rehabilitation, Share a Fare, Inc., the Boys Town National Research Hospital, the Omaha Council of the Blind, the National Federation of the Blind’s Omaha chapter, Magnification Resources, Inc., and the Lions Eye Bank of Nebraska. For more information, please go online to www.outlooknebraska.org/resourcefair.
Ask A Lawyer: Q — What is a Transfer on Death Deed (TOD Deed)? A — A TOD Deed allows a property owner to execute a deed that names a beneficiary who will obtain title to the property at the owner’s death, without the need for probate. Used mostly when a property has a single owner, the transfer doesn’t take effect until death. You must record the deed before death, but you are free to change your mind and revoke the deed at any time before death. The beneficiary has no rights to the property during the owner’s lifetime and cannot transfer or mortgage the property and his creditors cannot reach the property as long as the owner is alive. Have a question about estate planning? Give us a call! AARP Legal Service Network • No Charge For Initial Consultation
7602 Pacific Street, Ste 200 • (402) 391-2400 http://whitmorelaw.com
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s the weather warms, my thoughts gravitate toward my backyard garden. It’s time to look at the seed catalogue and decide what I want to plant this year. Some seedling will be started indoors and the rest will be sown when the soil warms up. Anticipation and planning are part of the fun. The garden is lovely metaphor for the planning and nurturing of the “third chapter,” i.e. retirement years. It illustrates the importance of thoughtful planning in spring in order to secure the fall produce. The same is true as we envision the life we want to live in our post-career years. It also reminds us our goals won’t come to fruition without effort on our part. Every fruitful garden requires light, water, fertile soil, and weed control. Similarly, we all require the careful nurturance of our body, mind, and spirit as we age. The bodies that seemed indestructible in our 20s and 30s now need our focused atf you’re interested in filing for property tax re- tention. Even the healthiest among us notice lief and want help filling stiffness, aches, and pains. Now the pounds accrue so easily when previously we could out the Homestead Exemption application forms, Vol- eat what we liked. In order to counter the physical vulnerabilities due to age, we need unteers Assisting Seniors will have trained volunteers to be mindful of self-care. Getting seven to eight hours of sleep daily at the LaVista Senior Cenis paramount for good health. Fortunately ter, 8116 Park View Blvd. on Wednesday, April 20 and this is easier to attain in retirement then when we were fully employed. Eating a Wednesday, May 4 from 1 diet that’s nutritious and heart-healthy keeps to 3 p.m. both days to help with the application process. the weight down and the energy up. We’re constantly reminded of the imIf you filed a 2015 federal income tax return, bring it portance of regular exercise to maintain good health. A routine that includes regular with you. If not, bring your physical activity is essential to nurturing our Social Security Form SSAbodies in the third chapter. 1099, information on pensions and annuities, interest qually important to maintaining and dividends, railroad a healthy body is maintaining a retirement information, and healthy mind. Brain science has records of any IRA distriburevealed the lie of the old saw, tions. You should also bring “You can’t teach an old dog new information on any out-oftricks.” The brain is capable of creating new pocket medical expenses neuropathways throughout our lives when you paid during 2015. it’s challenged to do so. We’re capable of For more information, please call VAS at 402-444- learning new skills and knowledge at any age. However, this is dictated by the “use it 6617.
New Horizons
or lose it” maxim. We learn new things when our brains reach outside of the established neuropathways. This means we must expose ourselves to new ideas and information. Our brains thrive when we read broadly, enroll in educational programs, solve puzzles, and otherwise challenge our thinking. The enjoyment of learning and sharpening our thinking never grows old. Stimulating the brain is essential to maintaining a fruitful, full life no matter our age. Thirdly, we can’t expect to have a wonderful third chapter unless we attend to our spirit. It’s the sun that provides the energy source for the metamorphosis of plants. It’s the inner life to the spirit that infuses our lives with meaning. The inner journey is unique for each person and each must decide what energizes that journey. For some it’s communing with nature while others find spiritual benefits in their faith communities. The natural flow of the seasons of life has us seeking the meaning of life as we face our own morality. No matter what our beliefs may be, the inner journey requires space, quiet, and time for reflection. We turn off the noise to hear the voice within. Setting aside time in our days and week to do reflection is like inviting sunshine into our inner life. The result is a vital inward journey that points to true happiness. Just as our flowers and vegetables can’t thrive without the gardener’s attention, our lives in the third chapter won’t thrive without our mindful attention to body, mind, and spirit. For those who attend to these dimensions, life will ripen into sweetness. (Hemesath is a life coach who specializes is supporting people who are making the transition into the post-career years. Contact her at lifencorecoaching.com or nhemesath@cox.net.)
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April 2016
Sertoma Club Members of the Omaha Sertoma Club encourage area residents to collect used and unwanted clothing, shoes, hats, caps, belts, purses, bedding, and towels by cleaning out their closets and other places these items are stored. These items can then be placed in bags and taken to and placed inside the donation bin at the Westside Community Center near 108th and Grover streets. These tax-deductible donations will be recycled and sent to people overseas. By helping with this effort, the Sertoma Club will receive funds for its programs that help people with hearing impairments. For more information, go to www.sertoma.org.
Especially during cold weather Sen. Fischer helps introduce legislation to combat fraudulent caller ID information Swimming is a great exercise
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nited States Sen. Deb Fischer of Nebraska recently helped introduce bipartisan legislation known as the Spoofing Prevention Act of 2016. The bill would close existing legal loopholes that allow fraudulent caller ID information to be conveyed through texts, certain IPenabled voice services, and calls originating outside the United States. Sen. Fischer released the following statement: “Modern technology makes our lives easier, but it also creates new challenges. Loopholes in our laws have allowed predators to falsify who they are and gain sensitive financial information from millions of Americans, particularly veterans and the elderly. That’s why I’m proud to introduce bipartisan legislation that would close these loopholes and protect our citizens from fraud and abuse.” In September 2013, USA Today reported on this growing problem and highlighted the story of Marian Kerr of Hastings. Kerr, 83, worked for years as a hospital nursing administrator before retiring in the 1990s. She knows what information she should and shouldn’t give out to strangers, and has a telephone equipped with caller ID. Still, she got tricked into giving her bank account number in August to a caller claiming to work for the federal government. “They told me they were calling from Washington, D.C., and they had my name, address, and phone number,” said Kerr. “I was distracted; they told me we could be done in three minutes. When they said, ‘Is your bank account number such-and-such,’ I said no and gave them the (correct) number.” When Kerr later checked caller ID, she learned the call originated in Nevada. She became worried she had been conned so she contacted her bank and local police. Police couldn’t do much with the complaint. Nor could the Better Business Bureau. When Kerr repeatedly called the number, it rang busy or rolled to voicemail. Caller ID spoofing refers to the practice of deliberately falsifying telephone numbers and/or names
relayed through caller ID. Major targets of spoofing often include older adults, veterans, and law enforcement. Last fall, the FBI issued a warning regarding a caller who used spoofing technology to display the number of the Omaha FBI office on caller IDs. In this instance, the fraudulent caller told the recipient they were eligible to receive a grant from the federal government. The caller then proceeded to solicit credit card and banking information. The Truth in Caller ID Act of 2009, of which Sen. Nelson was the sponsor, was signed into law in December 2010. It prohibits any person or entity from transmitting misleading or inaccurate caller ID information with the intent to defraud, cause harm, or wrongfully obtain anything of value. Unfortunately, new tech- U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer nologies have made it easier for of Nebraska. scam artists, especially those operating overseas, to continue making fraudulent calls. The Spoofing Prevention Act of 2016 prohibits caller ID spoofing on voice calls, including calls made by persons outside of the United States to callers located inside the United States and all calls made using IP-enabled voice services. It also prohibits caller ID spoofing on text messages. The Spoofing Prevention Act of 2016 also directs the Government Accountability Office to conduct a study of the actions the Federal Communications Commission and the Federal Trade Commission have taken to combat spoofing. It also directs the GAO to identify any additional measures that may be needed to combat this practice. In addition, the bill directs the FCC to publish on its website a report identifying existing technology consumers can use to protect themselves against Caller ID spoofing.
Kate Werner honored for her service at the Maple Ridge Retirement Resort
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pplause filled the room as her name was announced. It was obvious Kate Werner is a very popular staff member at the Maple Ridge Retirement Resort, 3525 N. 167th Cir. Werner’s name was announced as a winner of the Ron Herron Service From the Heart Award during a March 21 ceremony in the theatre at Maple Ridge. The Ron Herron Service From the Heart Award is the highest award given to Resort Lifestyle Communities employees for exemplifying service excellence, respect, honesty, kindness, and compassion. Ron Herron Service from Nearly 400 Resort Life- the Heart Award winner style Communities resiKate Werner (left) with dents nominated 81 staff Maple Ridge Manager members for the Ron HerDenise Townsend. ron Award this year. Werner – who works in the Maple Ridge dining room – was one of five Resort Lifestyle Communities staff members selected for the special recognition. Ron Herron and his wife, Annette, are former Resort Lifestyle Communities managers. Ron passed away in 2011 from throat cancer. As a Ron Herron Service From the Heart Award winner, Werner received flowers, a special nametag, some prize money, and a plate with her name engraved on it. “You make it very easy to do my job,” Werner said to the residents as tears filled her eyes. “Thank you.”
April 2016
alternative to brisk walking
In terms of convenience, it’s hard to beat brisk walking as a form of exercise. You don’t need any special equipment or venue, and most people can do it. But for some people—such as those with achy knees, sore hips, or substantial weight, walking may be uncomfortable. During the winter, harsh weather in many parts of the country can make walking outdoors unpleasant, even treacherous at times. A water workout in a warm indoor pool, followed by a relaxing sauna could be an appealing alternative that’s also good for your heart.
Evidence indicates swimming can lead to lower rates of heart disease, burns the same amount of calories as walking, and can reduce stress on joints. Relatively few people swim on a regular basis, so large studies looking at the benefits of physical activity in relation to cardiovascular health have tended to lump swimming together with other types of exercise. Plenty of evidence points to lower rates of heart disease among people who do regular, moderate-to-vigorous-intensity exercise. Swimming laps definitely fits the bill. “Recreational swimming will burn about the same calories as brisk walking,” says Dr. I-Min Lee, a professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School who studies the role of physical activity in disease prevention. One key advantage to swimming is that water makes you buoyant, which take the stress off your joints. That can be especially helpful for people who are carrying excess weight, she explains. Water also offers resistance as you move through it, which allows you to work out vigorously (if you’re able) with little chance of injury. Swimming laps can also be relaxing and meditative, which may offer some stress relief, adding to its cardiovascular benefits. Finally, swimming is an activity you can do across the life span. If you haven’t been swimming in a while, start slowly. Try swimming just five to 10 minutes of laps while coordinating your breathing, strokes, and kicking. A pair of wellfitting goggles is a must. If doing laps isn’t your thing, you can try walking or running in water. Another option is water aerobics, which are exercises done in waist-deep or higher water that may use floating devices and weights. Many community centers, YMCAs, and other facilities with pools offer these classes. One downside to swimming is that it’s not optimal for building bones because it’s not weight bearing. That’s why swimmers need to supplement their aquatic training with some weight-bearing exercise, like strength training, walking, dancing, stair climbing, or gardening. (Harvard Medical School provided this information.)
Maplewood Estates Lifestyle • Community • Convenience • Family Values
Move-in Specials Get 6 months of FREE lot rent for moving a single wide home Amenities include: into the park, or $3,500 for • Playground • Off street parking doublewide for moving expenses. • Clubhouse • Pool • RV’s welcome Call for more information.
402.493.6000
Call: 12801 Spaulding Plaza www.maplewoodestatesonline.com Omaha, NE 68164
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Book offers a guide to all things hospice
Public Transit Week scheduled for April 10 to 16 in Nebraska
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ach year the Nebraska Department of Roads celebrates Public Transit Week across the state. This year, the celebration will be held April 10 to 16. This special recognition honors the more than 700 members of the Nebraska Association of Transportation Providers who work to enhance the quality and accessibility of public transportation in Nebraska. Locally, passengers can earn free round trip van rides throughout the week and Stuff the Bus by donating toys and other item for boys and girls ages 12 to 17 enrolled in the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging’s Grandparent Resource Center. Passengers will be able to participate in Buddy Days by inviting a friend to take a ride through ENOA’s Rural Transportation Program. ENOA will also honor veterans by providing two free round trip van rides. All Rural Transportation program drivers will be giving away various items to their passengers during Public Transit Week. The Rural Transportation Program is available to older adults, the general public, and persons with a disability in Sarpy, Dodge, Cass, Washington, and rural Douglas counties. The service can be used for any transportation need including rides to medical and business appointments, shopping, going to Eppley Airfield, etc. Program funding is provided through a grant from the Nebraska Department of Roads, county support, and passenger fees. For more information on ENOA’s Rural Transportation Program, please call (toll free) 1-888-210-1093 in Cass, Sarpy, and rural Douglas counties; 402-721-7770, ext. 4 in Dodge County; and 402-426-9614 in Washington County.
Your donation will help support the Intercultural Senior Center
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veryday, 10,000 Americans celebrate their 65th birthday. Many of these older adults need social service programs to enhance their quality of life. However, despite the increased need for support, only 2 percent of funding from the nation’s largest grant makers is specifically focused on older adults. That’s why the Intercultural Senior Center – 3010 R St. – is partnering with GIVE65. GIVE65, a program of the Home Instead Senior Care Foundation, is the nation’s first and only crowd-fundraising platform focused exclusively on helping nonprofit organization’s raise funds online for programs and services benefiting older adults. VOTES WANTED PLEASE GO TO
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“Our greatest joy is in our ability to positively impact the quality of seniors’ lives through the programs and services at the Intercultural Senior Center,” says Carolina Padilla, executive director. “With GIVE65, we can spread the word about the needs, challenges, and successes of the diverse senior population we serve.”
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nyone who wants to support the Intercultural Senior Center can visit GIVE65.org to learn more about the organization and to make a secure online donation. First National Bank of Omaha is matching donations up to $5,000. Through GIVE65, donations will help the Intercultural Senior Center provide daily transportation for older men and women. “Every gift makes a difference; from $10 to $1,000. And, the best part is, these funds will help at the local, grassroots level,” said Roger H. Baumgart, executive director of the Home Instead Senior Care Foundation.
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ospice. Some take those seven letters as a death sentence, but this form of care does not equate to imminent death. In her new book, Hospice: The Last Responder, author Ellen Jane Windham offers patients and their families a comprehensive guide to all things hospice care. “Education is vital since hospice care is so often misunderstood,” Windham said. “This book will help you turn the fear and pain of losing someone into a memorable, and yes, even joyous event for family and friends to cherish and pass to each generation to follow.” Windham has been a hospice nurse for over 15 years and throughout her career, seen countless families struggle to make the decision whether or not to place their loved one in hospice care. “Many people equate hospice with neglect, suffering, or even physicianassisted suicide,” Windham said. “Hospice is not about any of these things. Hospice attempts in every way possible, for each person diagnosed with a terminal illness, regardless of age, gender, race, nationality, religion, or financial situation to complete their journey with the greatest comfort at home, wherever home may be, surrounded by family.” Hospice: The Last Responder captures the true essence of hospice care and explains everything readers need and want to know about the process, putting loved ones at ease. Hospice: The Last Responder is available online or at bookstores.
Support group for widows, widowers THEOS, a support group for older widows and widowers, meets at 6 p.m. the second Monday of each month at the Presbyterian Church of the Cross, 1517 S. 114th St. The organization offers weekend activities, Wednesday night dinners, and pinochle twice a month. For more information, please call Dorothy at 402-399-0759, Mary at 402-393-3052, or Joan at 402-393-8931.
April 2016
Read it & eat By Lois Friedman readitandeat@yahoo.com
Regional recipes you’ll enjoy Think slow food, local food, farmers’ markets, and Americana on a plate. Turn the pages of these cookbooks for delicious delights and local flavor. Here’s a sampling of regional fare from around the country. Lost Recipes of Prohibition By Matthew Rowley (Countryman Press, $27.95) The 1920s notebook of a physician-turned-whiskey peddler evolved into this cookbook with recipes modernized for the home kitchen. Handwritten notes for more than 300 secret recipes for blending all sorts of wonderful speakeasy drinks at home. This book is intoxicating. Eating Appalachia By Darrin Nordahl (Chicago Review Press, $19.95) Think pawpaw, ramps, elk, squirrel, persimmon, and more. Twenty-three recipes, stories of chefs, hunters, lacavores, native regional ingredients, festivals, and celebrations. Travel these foodways and enjoy every bite. From Chelsea Green: Pawpaw By Andrew Moore ($26) Discover this cross between a banana and a mango that grows wild in the American Pawpaw belt (26 states). Discover the history, facts, and lore of this forgotten fruit. Cheddar By Gordon Edgar ($25) From macaroni to mousetraps this cheese monger traces cheddar history from artisan to Velveeta and shares a slice of American culture and history. It Ain’t Sauce, It’s Gravy By Steve Martotano (Knopf, $27.95) South Philly-style comfort food from this Italian-American restaurateur. From antipasti to dessert. Stories, more than five dozen recipes, all about his 85-year-old mom’s phenomenal gravy, great family meals, the neighborhood, and “the best meatball in the world.” The Blue Bloods Cookbook By B. Moynahan & W. Goldberg (St. Martins Press, $29.99) The authors are connected through acting and the developer of television’s Regan family of the Blue Bloods show, which ends every episode at the New York Police Department family gathering around the dinner table. Enjoy 100 recipes for hearty Italian/Irish classics and comfort food. Enjoy this recipe while you catch the next episode:
Artichoke-and-Parmesan Dip Serves 4
One 14-ounce can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped 1 cup real mayonnaise 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1 small garlic clove, minced Pinch of smoked paprika Toast points, crackers or cut vegetables, for serving Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. In a food processor, combine all the ingredients except the toast. Pulse until the texture is nearly smooth but with some chunks of artichoke remaining. Transfer to a small ovenproof casserole dish and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling. Remove from the oven and let cool for five to 10 minutes. Serve warm with toast points, your favorite crackers, or crudites.
The New Horizons is brought to you each month by the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging.
Corrigan Senior Center You’re invited to visit the Corrigan Senior Center, 3819 X St., this month for: • April 1: Humor Month celebration and music by Heartland Ensemble (@ noon). Bring jokes to read, a funny photo or item to share, and wear a funny shirt, tie, or hat. • April 4, 11, 18, & 25: Colored pencil art class @ 10 a.m. Coffee, tea, and snacks provided. • April 6, 13, 20, & 27: Crafts & Social @ 10:30 a.m. Faux pastel painting, ink dot painting, yarn dolls, and more. A $2 fee for materials per class is asked. Stay for a delicious noon lunch. Call 402-731-7210 to sign up for the class and lunch. • April 8: Volunteer Month celebration. Meet the Corrigan volunteers @ 10 a.m. Saxophonist Tim Javorsky @ 11 a.m. Lunch is a broccoli strata with hash browns casserole or a ham and cheese wrap and potato salad (deli choice). • April 11: Omaha’s dancing preacher Gil Hill @ 11 a.m. Lunch is Catalina chicken or a tuna salad sandwich (deli choice). Bingo after lunch. • April 14: Talk on coping with cancer by Stephanie Koraleski from the A Time to Heal Foundation @ 11 a.m. Lunch is Chicken Alfredo or crab macaroni (deli choice). Bingo after lunch. • April 18: Birthday party with music by Kim Eames from the Merrymakers @ 11 a.m. Lunch is crunchy Pollack or a roast beef chef salad (deli choice). Special treat bags for those with an April birthday. Bingo after lunch. • April 21: Spring Fling baked ham dinner with strawberry rhubarb pie followed by Mega Bingo. Shoot basketball hoops for prizes @ 10 a.m. Chair volleyball @ 11 a.m. The reservation deadline is noon on Friday, April 15. • April 26: Turkey & Talk. Kelly will discuss age-related physical ailments, depression, and lifestyle changes. A turkey breast will be served for lunch. Everyone, including new players, is welcome to play chair volleyball every Tuesday and Thursday @ 11 a.m. A noon lunch will follow. Join us for Tai Chi – a relaxing and fun activity that’s proven to improve your balance – Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10 a.m. in our spacious gym. Bingo, ceramics, exercise, woodcarving, and loads of fun are also available. The Corrigan Senior Center is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Lunch is served at noon. A $3.50 contribution is normally suggested for the meal. Reservations are normally due by noon the business day prior to the meal you wish to enjoy. For meal reservations or more information, please call Lynnette at 402-731-7210.
Judy Varner stepping down April 30... --Continued from page 11. role in offering shelter animals a second chance. The NHS foster care program gives frightened animals the opportunity to rehabilitate in homes away from the stress of the kennels. The NHS’ nationally-recognized Animal Control Department upholds some of the most comprehensive laws in the nation to protect the residents of Omaha and their pets. “The people here are the most amazing in the universe,” Varner says. “The staff, the volunteers, the board members, and on down the list. The challenges they face on a daily basis; the heartbreak. And yet they never lose the passion.”
L
earning how to work with mistreated or abandoned animals is a process, Varner says.
April 2016
“At first, you want to adopt every one you see and take them home, but then you realize you can’t. Then you want to get them all adopted, but you realize not all homes are good homes. That’s the moment you become useful, because you become an advocate for them.” Being an advocate isn’t easy, especially seeing what some animals have endured. “We laugh at what we can laugh at and we cry at what we can’t,” Varner says. “Even if an animal is only with us for the last three days of their life, we are going to make them the best three days of their life. “I tell my people that the day they stop crying is the day they need to go someplace else. If you don’t have that empathy any more, you don’t belong here.” Varner isn’t leaving because she has lost that empathy. Just the opposite. “This is a good place. This shows Omaha is a community that steps up for its animals. This is the building that Omaha built. We have run it with our hearts, but we have also run it with our brains. “I won’t say it’s not difficult to leave. It’s very difficult. But I truly think it’s for the good of the agency. The agency is in great shape, and now is the time for me to move on. “I’m a firm believer in fate. I believe in the hand of God guiding you and shielding you. There’s a next step; a next place I’m going to go and play a role. I just don’t know what it is yet.” Wherever that next step takes her, it will be a more humane place because Judy Varner is there.
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Older adults, students prove reading can be fun
Mariann Pape By Jeff Reinhardt
of reading with 54 secondgraders as part of New Cassel’s Grandmas and Grandsmall group of secpas on the Go program. ond-graders stood “This program is a great near a seated Mariway to bring generations ann Pape as she began read- together in a positive, meaning to the students. “Sit right ingful way that will bring here. I have a good knee,” purpose and value to both Mariann said as a young groups,” said Julie Sebasgirl comfortably settled into tian, New Cassel’s CEO. Pape’s welcoming lap. “Unfortunately, sociPape, Leo Bianchi, Rita ety tends to dismiss the Couch, Tony Weigel, young and the old. I believe Jacque Zagurski, and Patti Grandmas and Grandpas Troia-Helleso are residents on the Go helps drive out of the New Cassel Retirethat rejection,” Sebastian ment Center. continued. “The children On a sunny late winter give quality ‘kid time’ to the afternoon, these half dozen Grandmas and Grandpas, older adults visited St. and the older adults find Gerald’s Elementary School purpose and meaning readin Ralston to share the gift ing to the students.” New Horizons Editor
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Jacque Zagurski
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Patti Troia-Helleso
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he 60-minute storytelling session began as three of the older adults took their seats in JoAnn Wanek’s classroom as the three other New Cassel residents set up shop next door in Amanda Ackerman’s classroom. Six groups of students – some seated while others stood – gathered around their new friends as the older adults began reading out loud. “It’s so great seeing these little faces glued to the faces of the Grandmas and Grandpas,” Wanek said as she surveyed the activity. “Watching the two generations interact is amazing,” Ackerman added. The students listened intently, and the only sound heard above the reading was some occasional laughter. Toward the end of the storytelling, Bianchi, age
Leo Bianchi
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April 2016
97, turned the tables on the students and asked them to read to him. “You are great readers,” a smiling Bianchi said to the second-graders, who reciprocated the silver-haired gentleman’s compliment with smiles of their own. At the end of day, the older adults each received a colorful handmade “stain glass” cross the secondgraders fashioned out of
paper. “The partnership with St. Gerald’s is a win-win for students and the New Cassel residents and will ultimately strengthen the entire community,” Sebastian said. Based on the joy that filled the classrooms, it’s obvious the six New Cassel residents, the 54 students, and their teachers heartily agreement with that assessment.
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New Horizons c/o Jeff Reinhardt, Editor Lamplighter II Some of the4223 nicest, newer 1 bedroom Center Street apartments. Elevator, w & d, heated Omaha, NE 68105 parking garage. Small complex. By bus & shopping. No pets or smoking.
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he 2016-17 Omaha World Adventurers film series concludes on Monday, April 11 as filmmaker Rick Ray presents The Soul of India. Show times are 2 and 7:30 p.m. at the Village Pointe Theaters, 304 N. Eastern th 174 St. Nebraska a Office on Aging • 4223 Center Street • Omah Armchair travelers will enjoy viewing India’s jungles, deserts, mountains, tropical beaches, colonCalled We Need to Talk, theNsession will also provide ial hill stations, and crowded cities. January 8, 2016 Ray spent more than four months toolseto help you discuss e b fic a s kloved in India braving the heat, cold, altiwhetherryour a O fone tude, earthquakes, and riots to create needs to limit his or her driving or stop driving alto- a personal tapestry of this amazing Travel filmmaker Rick, Rick Ray. country. gether. Here’s your ad for the classified section for the February issue. Please let me know if this Film highlights will include stops We Need to Talk will be is okay. If you have any changes, give me a call @ 402-444-4148. Once ad is approved at the Taj Majal, the Himalayas, the River Ganges, Bomheld from 10 to 11:30 a.m. your7205 check for $32.00,bay, or call in Delhi, your credit card payment to: New and Calcutta. at Domail Space, Dodge The Soul of India also explores the nation’s religions, St. January 25, 2016 New Horizons political events, democracy, and its caste system. To register or for more Tickets, which are $15,Editor are available at the door. information, please call 402c/o Jeff Reinhardt, For 4223 more information, please 457-5231. Center Street call 866-385-3824. Judy, Here’s your ad for the classified for the February issue. Please let me Omaha, NEsection 68105 know if this is okay. If you have any changes, give me a call @ 402-444-4148. Once ador is 402approved mail Ph. 402-444-6654 Please call 402-444-4148 444-6654 toyour placecheck your adfor $24.00 to:
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To advertise in the New Horizons, please call Mitch at 402-444-4148 or Jeff at 402-444-6654.
Film allows viewers to capture ‘The Soul of India’ on April 11
AARP is offering a free seminar on Saturday, April 2 that will help you determine how to assess your loved one’s driving skills.
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G
ary George, executive director of Hospice House, The Josie Harper Residence, wrote a chapter in the book on the history of why hospice care began and how it spread from England to the United States. Sister Marie Micheletto, R.S.M., wrote the book’s prologue and also contributed three stories: the death of her parents, a young lady’s death from cancer, and how a dying man was cared for when his parents refused to come to his bedside. Sister Micheletto has been working in hospice care for about 40 years and is a wonderful resource for grieving individuals and families. The front cover of the book features the bronze angel statue in Council Bluffs known as the Ruth Anne Dodge Memorial. The daughters of Gen. Grenville M. Dodge and his wife, Anne, asked sculptor Daniel Chester French to reenact their mother’s dream with a bronze statue after her death. French also created the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. “This was my finest work,” he once said of the Angel statue. From Tears to Tributes: Sharing the Final Journey of Our Loved Ones is divided into three sections: Looking Toward the End of the Journey, Seeking Advice and Consolation, and Appreciating Military and Historic Tributes. The book may be purchased at Gloria Deo Gifts and Books, 13065 W. Center Rd.
Show times are 2 and 7:30 p.m.
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O
maha residents Bill Ramsey and Betty Dineen Shrier have co-authored their recently-released fifth book titled From Tears to Tributes: Sharing the Final Journey of Our Loved Ones. The chapters tell stories of how men, women, and children felt when they lost their dear ones and how they coped with their grief. “We hoped to inspire our readers with photos and accounts of tributes created in memory of those who have died, and illustrate with full-color photos and images of local, regional, and national monuments of the deceased from all walks of life—including those of different faiths, and how we honor loved ones regardless of ethnicity, beliefs, or political persuasion,” Dineen Shrier said.
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New Horizons
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Page 19
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Come see how you can enjoy life at the elegant and luxurious Walnut Grove, a distinctive community for adults over 55. Walnut Grove is the perfect choice for independent people looking for comfort, security, friendly neighbors, and convenience in a place they can call home. The community is a village unto itself with a theatre, shops, salon, spa, exercise and game room, and a grab-and-go café, to name a few. With no buy-in or long-term leases, the month-to-month rent model makes it easy for seniors to live life worry-free.
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New Horizons
Omaha, NE 68137
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April 2016
WalnutGroveRetirement.com