New Horizons June 2016 by Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging

A publication of the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging

June 2016 VOL. 41 • NO. 6

ENOA 4223 Center Street Omaha, NE 68105-2431

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID OMAHA NE PERMIT NO. 389

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Volunteer drivers needed The Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging is recruiting volunteer drivers for the agency’s Meals on Wheels program. Theresa Howell – a volunteer driver for more than 25 years – is seen here delivering lunch to Lois, an ENOA meals recipient for five years. See page 18.

Advocates John Oltman and Mary Jo Smith recently celebrated their 16th anniversaries as volunteers with ENOA’s Ombudsman Advocate program. See page 3.

Patriots Bill and Evonne Williams and Patriotic Productions have sent 2,100 military veterans from Nebraska and Iowa to Washington, D.C. Nick Schinker’s story begins on page 10.

Camelot Friendship Center

Dora Bingel Senior Center

You’re invited to visit the Camelot Friendship Center inside the Camelot Community Center, 9270 Cady Ave., for the following: • Friday, June 3: Movie Day @ 12:15 p.m. • Thursday, June 9: Book Club @ 10:15 a.m. • Tuesday, June 14: Picnic at Elmwood Park. • Wednesday, June 15: Music by Joyce Torchia from the Merrymakers @ 11:45 a.m. • Thursday, June 16: Jackpot Bingo @ 12: 15 p.m. • Monday, June 20: Chair volleyball @ 10:15 a.m. • Thursday, June 23: Crafts @ 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.

You’re invited to visit the Dora Bingel Senior Center, 923 N. 38th St., this month for the following: • June 1, 3, 8, 10, 15, 17, 22, 24, & 29: Ceramics @ 9 a.m. • June 1: Holy Communion @ 10 a.m. • June 6: Book Club @ 10 a.m. • June 6, 13, 20, & 27: Al-Anon meeting @ 7 p.m. • June 7, 14, 21, & 28: Grief Support Group @ 10 a.m. • June 8: Music from the Merrymakers @11:30 a.m. • June 15: Foot care clinic from 9 a.m. to noon for $10. • June 29: Birthday party luncheon @ noon. Eat free if you have a June birthday. • June 30: Red Hats @ 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 all 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., Bible study @ 1 p.m., Bingo @ 1 p.m. Friday: Joy Club @ 9:30 a.m., Bingo @ 1 p.m. For more information, please call 402-898-5854.

Sen. Fischer’s staff hosting Senior Fair on Friday, June 3

nited States Sen. Deb Fischer’s staff will host its second annual Senior Fair on Friday, June 3 from noon to 2:30 p.m. at the Millard Senior Center at Montclair, 2304 S. 135th Ave. Guests will have an opportunity to learn more about important resources for older Nebraskans and meet members of Sen. Fischer’s staff.

Sen. Deb Fischer Among the organizations that will be represented at the Senior Fair are the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging, the Alzheimer’s Association, the office of the Nebraska Attorney General, the Better Business Bureau, the Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired, the Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human ServicesMedicaid Eligibility, the Internal Revenue ServiceCriminal Investigation, the Omaha Fire Department, the Omaha Police Department, the Social Security office, United Way’s 211 Network, the University of Nebraska Medical Center’s College of Nursing and College of Pharmacy, the Visiting Nurse Association, and Volunteers Assisting Seniors/Nebraska SHIIP (Senior Health Insurance Information Program). For more information, please call Tiffany Settles at 402-200-8816 or Peggy King at 402-441-4600. VOTES WANTED PLEASE GO TO

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June 2016

John, Mary Jo are making a difference for residents of long-term care facilities

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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

Mary Jo Smith

n 1998, John Oltman’s mother – living in Illinois – needed a higher level of healthcare, so she planned to move into a skilled nursing facility. Upon visiting a potential new Quad Cities-area home for his mom, Oltman – then a construction project manager for Omaha’s Craig Industries – wasn’t pleased with the quality of care available at the proposed site. “People shouldn’t have to live like that,” Oltman recalled saying to himself. “They’re not putting my mother there.” A year later, with memories of relocating his mother still fresh in his mind, Oltman – then retired – read an article in the New Horizons about the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging’s Ombudsman Advocate program. At roughly the same time, Mary Jo Smith – who had recently retired after a 42-year career as a registered nurse – read the same New Horizons article and decided to join the program. “What else is a retired nurse going to do,” said the smiling 79-year-old mother of three, grandmother of four, and greatgrandmother of four.

he Ombudsman Advocate program was established as part of the Older Americans Act. Its volunteers advocate for the rights and well being of nursing home and assistedliving facility residents to ensure these men and women receive the highest quality of care possible. ENOA’s ombudsmen must complete 20 hours of initial classroom training and 12 hours of additional training every two years. The volunteers learn about the residents’ rights and federal and state laws regarding Nebraska’s long-term care facilities. Before being assigned, the potential ombudsman advocates make four visits to a nursing home or an assisted living community with an experienced volunteer to learn more about the program. Then, after completing a three to sixmonth probationary period, the volunteers are certified as ombudsman advocates. The ombudsmen visit their assigned long-term care facility once a week for two hours. They meet with residents, the administration, and staff to discuss and address any potential concerns.

I get the New Horizons regularly and don’t need to be put on the mailing list.

John Oltman

n 2000, Oltman and Smith became ENOA Ombudsman Advocates. John was assigned to the Douglas County Health Center where the 81-year-old continues to volunteer 16 years later. Mary Jo, married to retired USAF ThreeStar Gen. (retired) Leo Smith for 58 years, volunteers two hours each week at the Huntington Park Care Center in Papillion. John sees his role as advocating for the residents when they aren’t able to help themselves. In addition to his two hours at the DCHC, Oltman spends another 90 minutes each week visiting with families on the telephone and filing reports for ENOA and Nebraska’s long-term care ombudsman on the residents and their concerns. “I want to make nursing home life better for the residents,” Smith, age 79, said. “I try to show them the smiling face of someone who takes a little time to talk with them.”

o observers, it might appear the ombudsmen could have an adversarial relationship with the longterm care facilities’ administrators and staff. That perception isn’t accurate, according to Pat Wilcox, who coordinates the Ombudsman Advocate program for ENOA. “We have to have a good relationship with one another to get things done,” she said. “We all want the best quality of life and care for the residents.” Oltman has enjoyed his 16 years as an ombudsman advocate. “I love to get into situations when I can really fight for someone. I feel like I’m making a difference.” Wilcox said John is a remarkable volunteer. “I admire his positive attitude. He really cares about the residents.” She also spoke highly of Smith. “Mary Jo is a great friend of the Huntington Park residents. She always has their best interest in mind.” Oltman, who has four children, three grandkids, and three great-grandchildren, encourages other men and women to join ENOA’s Ombudsman Advocate program. “You need to go into it with your eyes and arms wide open so you can embrace what you’re doing,” he said. For more information, please contact Wilcox at 402-444-6536.

June 2016

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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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Two nurses write book that provides answers to living with cancer Spry Publishing is pleased to announce the release of The Complete Cancer Organizer: Your Answers to Questions About Living with Cancer. Authors Jamie Schwachter and Josette Snyder, advance practice nurses at the Cleveland Clinic’s Taussig Cancer Institute, have spent years running its renowned Cancer Answer Line. They’ve spoken with patients, family members, and physicians, answering their questions and addressing their concerns. Their phone calls often begin with a frightened, tearful, “I have cancer. Can you help me?” In The Complete Cancer Organizer, Jamie and Josette have compiled the most impactful knowledge, advice, and wisdom they’ve accumulated over the years to aid patients and their families on the journey from diagnosis to remission and beyond. Included in the book are answers to questions ranging from the technical to the holistic including what to wear to chemo treatments, how to explain a cancer diagnosis to young children, and treatment options. The Complete Cancer Organizer transcends from being an advice book to the comprehensive guidebook of a patient’s cancer journey. Written in an accessible and comforting style, the organizer offers vast resources and information within a format that encourages both newly diagnosed and long-term cancer patients to take a more active role in their treatment. Interactive elements contained in the book include: • Questionnaires and guided conversations focus on improving communication between patients and healthcare professionals. • Tips and checklists provide vital criteria for evaluating important decisions such as choosing a cancer center or where to go for additional support. • Extensive online and offline resource lists guide patients toward reliable and respected organizations that assist with issues ranging from health-related to financial. • Chapters on managing side effects and survivorship cover lifestyle considerations that can promote overall physical and emotional wellness both during and after treatment. In addition to helping patients understand and manage their treatment options, The Complete Cancer Organizer is also an ideal gift for family members who are trying to understand what their loved one is going through and what they can do to help. The book offers strength and encouragement to all people who are struggling with cancer, whether as a patient or as a loved one who is giving care and support.

WHITMORE LAW OFFICE Wills • Trusts • Probate

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Open Door Mission donates adult briefs to ENOA

Heidi DeMuth, who coordinates ENOA’s Durable Medical Equipment program, with some of the estimated 150 packages of adult briefs and underpads donated to the agency by the Open Door Mission.

Survey shows importance of protecting Social Security

elping to insure the Social Security system won’t run out of money should be the top economic issue addressed by the next United States President, according to a new telephone survey of 1,005 adult Americans conducted recently by Harris Poll on behalf of the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA). Almost two-in-three (64 percent) U.S. adults cited Social Security as the top issue, underscoring the importance of the program to Americans in retirement. The largest majority of adult Americans in each age group picked Social Security as one of the most important economic issues for the next President to address, with the percentages increasing as they aged. Threein-four age 65 and over (74 percent) picked it as the most important issue followed by 71 percent in the 55 to 64 age group, 66 percent in both the 45 to 54 and 35 to 44 age groups, and 53 percent in the 18 to 34 age group. Social Security was followed by reducing the federal deficit (44 percent), decreasing unemployment (38 percent), reducing taxes (36 percent), and decreasing the international trade deficit (25 percent), as top economic issues the next President should address. While one-in-five (22 percent) cited keeping interest rates low, there was a small group (4 percent) who thought the next President should increase interest rates. A recent National Council on Aging study found 22 percent of married Social Security recipients and 47 percent of single Social Security recipients depend on Social Security for 90 percent of their income. The U.S. Census Bureau estimates the poverty rate among men and women over age 65 would be about 50 percent without Social Security. With 10,000 people turning age 65 every day, these statistics underscore the importance of Social Security to current retirees and those about to retire. “Our survey clearly demonstrates that people feel strongly about the solvency of Social Security and the potential impact on their own retirement security,” said Gregory Anton, CPA, chair of the AICPA’s National

June 2016

CPA Financial Literacy Commission. “The earlier people start saving for retirement, and the more they contribute to their retirement accounts, the better financial shape they will be in. That way Social Security can supplement their retirement savings rather than serve as the sole component.” The AICPA survey found 44 percent of adult Americans felt their economic wellbeing would be about the same as a result of the upcoming Presidential election. One-infive (21 percent) felt their economic wellbeing would be better, and 19 percent felt their economic well-being would be worse after the election. Fifteen percent weren’t sure how the election would impact their economic well-being. “While the outcome of elections have the potential to impact American’s economic situation, people need to understand they have the ability to make positive changes in their financial behavior,” said Anton. “The tools and resources on the AICPA’s 360 Degrees of Financial Literacy website empower people to understand their finances and take steps to improve their saving and spending habits to better position themselves for a comfortable retirement.” The AICPA’s National CPA Financial Literacy Commission offers the following tips to help Americans save for a more comfortable retirement. • You can begin receiving Social Security retirement benefits as early as age 62. However, your benefits may be 25 to 35 percent higher if you wait until full retirement age of 66 or 67, depending on the year you were born. • Social Security should be considered a component of your retirement plan, which can also include employer-sponsored retirement plans, a personal Roth IRA, and real estate holdings. • Retirement doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing affair. If you aren’t ready financially for full retirement, consider downshifting from full-time to part-time employment. This allows you to retain a source of income and remain active. (The AICPA provided this information.)

Farmers Market produce coupons available at ENOA senior centers

lder Nebraskans meeting income and age guidelines are eligible to receive $48 in coupons that can be exchanged for fresh produce sold at Nebraska Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program-certified Nebraska Farmers Market stands. The SFMNP – administered by the Nebraska Department of Agriculture and the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services’ State Unit on Aging – provides fresh, nutritious, locally grown fruits, vegetables, and herbs. The program also helps increase consumption of the state’s produce. To be eligible to receive the coupons, applicants must show proof of age and income level. Coupon recipients must be age 60 or older and have an annual income less than $21,978 for a single person or less than $29, 637 for a two-person household. The produce coupons will be distributed during June at ENOA senior centers. Recipients will be given 16 coupons worth $3 each that can be used through October 31, 2016. Only one set of coupons will be issued per household. The program’s appropriations are limited; therefore, not everyone requesting coupons will receive them. More information is available at the ENOA senior centers. A complete list of these facilities can be found online at enoa.org by clicking on PROGRAMS and then the SENIOR CENTERS link.

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New Cassel ceremony honors its veterans program veterans for their military service. Speeches were also given by Nebraska Lt. Gov. Mike Foley who represented Gov. Pete Ricketts, and New Cassel CEO and President Julie Sebastian. A representative from United States Sen. Ben Sasse’s office also attended the commemoration.

Petrich and Lempke presented special mugs to the veterans as Sebastian announced each of their names, branch of military service, and in which war they served their country. Lempke also handed out red and white roses and patriotic pins to spouses of the veterans. “I appreciate you watching the home front,” he said to one of the ladies as she accepted the flower and pin. Members of the Color Guard from American Legion Post #1 posted the colors, played Taps, and conducted an outdoor rifle salute during the ceremony. After the final note of The Color Guard from American Legion Post #1 Taps was played on the provided an outdoor rifle salute and played ‘Taps’ bugle, tears could be seen to conclude the military salute at New Cassel. on the faces of a handful in any of those the auditorium. Then after ciscan Centre Adult Day who attended a few moments of silence, Service program for their the event enthe veterans, their family service during WWII, the tered the audi- Korean Conflict, the Vietmembers, the speakers, and torium with smiles on their the New Cassel and Frannam War, and wars in Iraq faces. Less than an hour ciscan Centre staff members and Afghanistan. later, some of them departed shared conversation and Guest speakers at the the scene with tears in their fourth annual observance refreshments before departeyes. ing the room following an in the auditorium at New On a beautiful, sunny day Cassel – 900 N. 90th St. – emotional afternoon. last month, the New Cassel Lempke summed up the included Maj. Gen. Roger P. Foundation honored more Lempke (retired), the direc- feelings of many who atthan 50 military veterans tended. “I’m honored to be tor of military and veterans from the New Cassel Retire- affairs in United States Sen. among this large group of ment Center and the Franheroes.” Deb Fischer’s office. Cindy Petrich, president of the New Cassel Foundation, began the festivities by thanking the veterans for “protecting our country” during wartime. “You’re the heroes of our lifetime,” she said. New Cassel resident Patti Troia-Helleso then led the audience in singing God Bless America.

Maj. Gen. (retired) Roger P. Lempke.

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uring his address, Lempke provided a brief American military history lesson and thanked the New Cassel and Franciscan Centre Adult Day Service

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Nebraska Lt. Gov. Mike Foley.

June 2016

Study examining the correlation between sense of smell, slowing dementia progress

Texas A&M University professor and her students are using the strong association between memory and the sense of smell in hopes of slowing the progress of dementia by way of “scent

painting.” The activity involves mixing spices with water to make watercolor paints with the hope the scents will bring back memories for the patients. Christine Tisone, professor of health education at Texas A&M, started the memory care project as part of her human disease class three years ago. Students in her class spend four hours a week interacting with patients, engaging them in evidence-based memory care activities. One group of students works with patients whose memory issues aren’t as severe, playing Bingo and doing life story interviews. The second group works with patients in the memory care unit who have a more severe level of dementia for scent painting. “A lot of them are still able to comment on those smells to recall memories based on those smells. It starts conversations,” says Tisone. “The most important thing for memory care is interactions with other people.” She says the connection between memory and scent is apparent because smells are routed through the olfactory bulb, the smell-analyzing region in the brain. It’s closely connected to the amygdala and hippocampus, which handle memory and emotion. Visual, sound, and touch information doesn’t pass through those brain areas. Tisone’s students are trained to elicit conversation based on reactions to those smells. While there’s yet no cure for dementia, Tisone says over time she and her graduate assistants, who act as group leaders, have seen improvement in patients on a number of fronts since they began the spice painting activity. “Some residents are more talkative than they used to be, and some seem better able to answer questions about their past than before,” Tisone says. She’s seen less decline in the spice painting patients when compared to patients who haven’t participated in the activity. Tisone says several of the patients’ family members have also noticed improvement. “They believe the painting activity has made a positive difference in their loved ones, such as they seem more alert and talkative, in general, than before. In one case, a daughter mentioned her mother seemed less anxious than before.” During the project’s first year, Tisone let her students volunteer to take part. She says the feedback was so incredible; the project became mandatory for all of her students. Tisone says the students enjoy participating in the memory care project. “One hundred percent of the students, in a formal evaluation and reflection assignment they have to do after their experience, have reported it to be a positive experience in terms of personal growth and satisfaction.” Myriam Fillion, a senior health major at Texas A&M, says the experience is quite rewarding. “We were able to paint one of the resident’s name and a flower and then use that to talk about her kids, their names, and the types of flowers she enjoys most. I think the company and the activity truly made her day much better and helped with her memory recall.” “I feel like we’re making a long-term impact here and giving hundreds of students each year the opportunity to be part of it,” says Tisone. “A lot of my students have come back to volunteer after doing this. It doesn’t take long to bond with a particular person or maybe just the feel of this place.” Student Colin Coleman, who participated in the project, had already planned to continue her education and become a registered nurse. However, this project convinced her to specialize in gerontology/memory care. “This project made me realize I had a special gift when it comes to working with Alzheimer’s and dementia patients,” she says. “I was very calm and at ease while interacting with the patients.” (Texas A&M provided this information.)

Read it & eat By Lois Friedman readitandeat@yahoo.com

Backyard recipes for summer Ready, set, fire up your grills. Enjoy being in your backyard cooking delicious fare. These cookbooks offer outdoor recipes, fun and delicious ideas for regional delights. Panhandle to Pan By Irv Miller (Globe Pequot, $24.95) History, food-for-thought, spirit of cooking, and the glories of the Redneck Rivera region of Florida. An extravaganza of eating. From Pelican: Carnivore Country By T. Mickler & T. Benoit ($24.95) Southern hospitality as a walk on the wild side. Hunting, fishing, and old style recipes for the great outdoors. From Alligator Balls to Yum Yum Chops. Mr. Dickey's Barbecue Cookbook By Roland Dickey ($29.95) Good eating, all the fixings and stories. Foot-stomping, knee-slapping, and eye-opening recipes from this Dallas restaurant chain (and in Omaha, too). The Big Texas Steakhouse Cookbook By Helen Thompson ($35) Think juicy slabs of Texas raised beef that reigns supreme in steakhouses across the Chisholm Trail that serve them. Recipes, pictures, stories, and the best of the Lone Star State. Sea & Smoke By B. Wetzel & J. Ray (Running Press, $40) From the untamed Pacific Northwest world class restaurant. Sophisticated, unique ingredients (pine tips and salmonberries) and methods (sous vide). Over-the-top photographs and a fabulous read. Taste of Treme By Todd-Michael St. Pierre (Ulysses Press, $21.95) Down-to-earth food from this New Orleans neighborhood for you to “get da taste buds goin.” Create mouthwatering Cajun and Creole recipes. Flavorize By Ray “Dr. BBQ” Lampe (Chronicle, $22.95) From the champion, Dr. BBQ, here are the latest lip-smacking recipes for soaking, poking, rubbing, and brushing. Recipes for marinades, injections, brines, rubs, and glazes. This is a simple seasoning salt that works well on anything.

The Basic Dry Rub: All-Purpose Kitchen Rub (Makes about 3/4 cup)

1/2 cup Morton's Kosher Salt 2 tbsp granulated garlic 2 tbsp granulated onion 2 tbsp paprika 1 tbsp black pepper (medium-coarse, also known as restaurant-grind) In a small bowl, combine the salt, granulated garlic, granulated onion, paprika, and pepper. Mix them well until fully blended. Store in an airtight container in a cool dry place for up to two months.

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 402-444-6536, ext. 224. In Dodge and Washington counties, please call 402-721-7780. • The Disabled American Veterans/VA Medical Center needs volunteer drivers. • The Office of Public Guardians is looking for volunteer court visitors. • The Blair and Fremont Car-Go Program needs volunteer drivers.

Computer users meet monthly at Abrahams Library You’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.

You’re invited to visit the Millard Senior Center at Montclair, 2304 S. 135th Ave., for the following: • June 2: Indoor baseball game @ noon. • June 14: Picnic at the Elmwood Park pavilion from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Enjoy a day of food, games, and fun. Reservations are due by June 6. • June 20: Hippo Golf outdoors @ noon. • June 23: Bring a friend for chair volleyball, lunch, and Bingo. • June 30: Brain games @ noon. The Millard Senior Center is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Lunch is served at 11:30. 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. Center activities include daily card games @ 9 a.m., quilting/needlework (Thursday @ 9 a.m.), dominoes (Tuesday and Thursday @ 8:30 a.m.), Tai Chi class (Monday and Friday @ 10 a.m. for a $1 suggested contribution), chair volleyball (Tuesday and Thursday @ 10 a.m.), card games @ 9 a.m., and Bingo (Tuesday and Friday @ noon). For meal reservations and more information, please call 402-546-1270.

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.

Riverboat Cruise Mississippi River Cruise – Autumn Colors. September 18 – 26. Nine days from $2,149. Eight-day cruise up the Mississippi River aboard the steamboat American Queen from Alton, Illinois (near St. Louis), to Red Wing, Minnesota (near St. Paul). Includes deluxe hotel in St. Louis the night before the voyage, all cruise meals, onboard entertainment, daily lectures by The Riverlorian, and pre-arranged shore excursions in each port of call. Optional transportation to and from your residence. (Other Mississippi River cruise destinations available.) Motorcoach “Beauty and the Beast” and “Chicago”. July 19 - 20. $335. 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. Mark Twain and the Amish. August 3 – 5. $489. 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. “The Music Man” at the Lofte. August 7. $105. 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.

The organization’s 50 members meet the third Saturday of each month from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. 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. VOTES WANTED

Christ Our Life Catholic Regional Conference. September 23 - 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 June. June 4 - 8. $279. 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 avery affordable way to get away for a while. During this stay, you will have the option of seeing a performance tribute to country western singers Tim McGraw, Patsy Cline, Big Rich, Willie Nelson, and Miranda Lambert at the Riverside Resort. In Partnership with Collette Vacations

PLEASE GO TO

www.lightthebridge.org

The New Horizons is brought to you each month by the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging

Millard Senior Center

100% non-profit addressing hunger VOTES TO DATE • For: 3,189

Quoted prices are per person, double occupancy, and do not include airfare. More destinations available! Reflections of Italy. Ten 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.

• Please vote today to address hunger.

June 2016

11808 Mason Plaza, Omaha, NE 68154

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Local retirement community to implement food waste solution

he New Cassel Retirement Center – 900 N. 90th St. – has been selected by the National Foundation to End Senior Hunger as one of five nonprofit nutrition programs in the United States to receive a service grant to implement NFESH’s innovative food waste solution. “New Cassel is leading the industry by becoming the first in Nebraska and our region to receive this prestigious yearlong grant,” said New Cassel Foundation President Cindy Petrich. “The What A Waste program’s tools and support will give New Cassel avenues to improve nutrition for seniors and hopefully see better health outcomes as a result,” said New Cassel’s President and CEO Julie Sebastian. “We also hope to learn from our seniors. Many of them grew up during lean Great Depression years, so they know tricks to managing food and to composting and gardening that we haven’t necessarily tapped into.” Through What A Waste, the New Cassel staff will learn how to separate, measure, and catalogue food waste from

the kitchen, dining room, and residents’ plates. The waste data is analyzed by NFESH to determine how much of each particular food item is wasted and which specific nutrients are being lost as a result. This knowledge will help New Cassel create menus and serve meals that can improve their clients overall nutrition and promote better health. What A Waste also helps programs improve their operations and includes a gardening component that engages older adults in moderate physical activity and produces fresh vegetables that can be incorporated into nutrition program menus. What A Waste is NFESH’s solution to the dual problems of hunger among older adults and food waste. In the United States, 9.6 million older men and women faced the threat of hunger in 2013, according to the latest research from NFESH. At the same time, nearly 40 percent of the food produced in the country ended up in landfills, according to a report from the Natural Resources Defense Council.

AAA launching new program to examine the patterns, trends of older motorists

ecognizing that lifestyle changes along with innovative technologies and medical advancements will have a significant impact on the driving experiences of the baby boomer generation, the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety has launched a multi-year research program to more fully understand the driving patterns and trends of older drivers in the United States. The LongROAD (Longitudinal Research on Aging Drivers) Study is designed to generate the largest and most comprehensive database about older drivers and will support in-depth studies of older adult driving habits and mobility to better understand risks and develop effective countermeasures. Dedicated to saving lives and reducing injuries on our roads, the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety’s mission is to prevent crashes and save lives through research and education about traffic safety. The Foundation has funded over 300 research projects designed to discover the causes of traffic crashes, help prevent them, and minimize injuries when they do occur. Visit www.AAAFoundation.org for more information. (AAA provided this information.)

THEOS THEOS, a social organization for older singles, meets from 1 to 4 p.m. on the second Monday of each month at the New Cassel Retirement Center, 900 N. 90th St. Older men and women are encouraged to meet for a fun afternoon and to sign up for other activities throughout the month. For more information, please call Dorothy at 402-399-0759, Mary at 402-393-3052, or Joan at 402-393-8931. VOTES WANTED PLEASE GO TO

www.lightthebridge.org 100% non-profit addressing hunger VOTES TO DATE • For: 3,189 • Please vote today to address hunger.

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June 2016

RSVP honors its volunteers AARP schedules two ‘We Need to Talk’ classes

ARP is offering a free program designed to help families determine when it’s time for loved ones to stop driving. We Need to Talk classes are scheduled for June 25 at Do Space, 7205 Dodge St. and Aug. 6 at the Westside

Larry Thompson from RSVP’s Advisory Council provided the keynote address at the luncheon. RSVP Volunteers Work Wonders with Experience was the theme of the annual RSVP recognition luncheon held last month at the German American Society. Sponsored locally by the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging, RSVP is a national program of the Corporation for National and Community Service through the Senior Service Corps. RSVP’s 700 volunteers – who must be age 55 or older – serve as important resources for public and non-profit organizations, health institutions, food pantries, and senior centers in Douglas, Sarpy, Dodge, Cass, and Washington counties. The luncheon featured a delicious meal, entertainment by Joe Taylor, and a keynote address by Larry Thompson from RSVP’s Advisory Council. Among the volunteers honored were Donna Roy, Charles Karrick, Thomas Lichliter, and Janice Newman who provided, 1,225, 996, 915, and 891 hours of volunteer service, respectively, during the last year. For more information about RSVP, please call 402-4446536.

Community Conference Center, 3534 S. 108th St. Both classes begin at 10 a.m.

opics addressed will include the meaning of driving, observing driving skills, and how to have this important conver-

sation. To sign up or for more information, please call 402457-5231. One-to-one, family, and group We Need to Talk sessions can be arranged by contacting Lana at fitzlana@gmail.com or 1-888-227-7669.

PRESENTED BY:

• Fine Art • Children's Fair • Fine Craft • Artist Demonstrations • World Music • Food & Beverage

TSCL advises older adults to budget for rising health costs

hen planning retirement expenses, make sure to budget enough for the growth in healthcare costs over time, says The Senior Citizens League

(TSCL). “That can be hard to figure, but rapidly rising healthcare costs, declining health, and the need for increased medical services and prescription drugs as you age will take a growing portion of Social Security benefits,” says TSCL Chairman Ed Cates. According to a recent survey by TSCL, healthcare costs take a hefty portion of most retirees’ Social Security benefits. In a survey conducted last year, nearly half of survey participants reported spending from 11 to 33 percent of their Social Security benefits on Medicare premiums and out-of-pocket costs. One-quarter of survey participants said they paid from 34 to 50 percent of their Social Security benefits on healthcare. The portion of Medicare recipients who reported spending more than 33 percent of their Social Security benefits on healthcare costs jumped 7 percent between 2014 in 2015. Steep cost increases in prescription drugs was frequently cited as a major cause by 61 percent who said their drug co-pay or coinsurance was higher than expected. TSCL believes the extreme cost increases could be putting some Medicare beneficiaries at risk, especially in a year like 2016, when retirees received no annual increase in cost-of- living adjustments. In 2010, when retirees received no Social Security COLA, about one-third of Medicare households said they postponed filling their prescriptions or took less than the prescribed amount due to higher costs. “Medicare must be given the authority to negotiate pharmaceutical prices with manufacturers for covered Part D drugs,” says Cates. Is this situation happening to you? Participate in TSCL’s 2016 Senior Survey at www.SeniorsLeague.org. (TSCL provided this information.)

June 2016

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Bill, Evonne committed to honoring nation’s heroes

Evonne and Bill Williams have four sons. Two are in the U.S. Army and two are members of the U.S. Marine Corps. By Nick Schinker

Ralston Arena. Named Midlanders of the Year in 2013 by The Omaha World-Herald, cience tells us that it is impos- Bill and Evonne are champions of sible to travel through time, values and qualities largely abanbut Bill and Evonne Williams doned by today’s materialistic have found a way. society. The selfless sacrifice of Since 2008, they have taken service to our country. The bravery 1,500 World War II veterans from of our military, and the courage of Nebraska and Iowa back in time, the families who support them. The rekindling memories and friendprivilege of freedom that so many ships aboard seven Heartland Honor people take for granted. The respect Flights to Washington, D.C. They for others and self-respect lacking in have done the same for 600 Korean many of our adolescents and young War veterans. adults. And on June 6, they will shepherd “This is a way for us to honor 500 Vietnam veterans from Neour sons and their service,” says braska on a one-day Honor Flight to Evonne. “By the time they were Washington in what they have been 24, they’d already become better told is the largest single-state group citizens than we could ever hope to of vets ever to visit the Vietnam be.” Veterans Memorial in Washington. Proud parents of two U.S. Army ural communities are known soldiers and two U.S. Marines, for the generosity of neighthe Williamses themselves did not bors caring for each other, serve in the military. Yet they have especially in times of great harddedicated their time and their skills ship. Those are the kinds of comat logistics and fundraising to honor munities in which Bill and Evonne the nation’s living veterans and were raised, and with their famiremember the fallen through their lies are the source of many of the Heartland Honor Flights and Patriprinciples and ethics they embrace otic Productions non-profit entertoday. prises. Bill Williams was born in They also work to present posiAmes, Iowa, and grew up in Red tive role models to area middle Oak. Evonne Freitag was born in school and high school students Deshler, Neb., and grew up on a through the annual American Spirit farm near Byron. Both recall the Summits, which in just four years marvelous freedom that accompahave grown from about 800 teenage nied their childhood. attendees to the 3,500 expected at “We could roam anywhere unatthis fall’s Fourth Annual Ameritended and just be kids,” Bill says. can Spirit Summit on Sept. 2 at the “Most kids don’t even go outside Contributing Writer

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anymore.” Evonne nods in agreement. “You went out to be with your friends and when you heard the noon whistle, it was time to go home for lunch,” she says. Bill recalls how he and his buddies would ride their bicycles to the Trailways bus depot in Red Oak and buy cheap tickets to Omaha. “We’d go to the Crossroads, then maybe to the Dundee Theater to see The Dirty Dozen, then downtown to Brandeis and eat at Bishop’s Buffeteria,” he says. “When we were done, we’d head to the train station, ride back to Red Oak, get our bikes out of the bushes, and go home. Mom would say, ‘What did you do today?’ ‘We went to Omaha.’ And she’d say, ‘Well, I hope you had a good time.’” Bill graduated from Red Oak High School and attended Dakota State College in Madison, S.D., where he earned a bachelor’s degree in education in 1973. He met Evonne when he taught social studies and coached at her high school in Byron. After she graduated, Evonne attended the Lincoln School of Commerce and later Bellevue University. Bill taught at Byron and at Chester-Hubbell High School before moving to Omaha, where he became director of student services at Nebraska College of Business. Evonne moved to Omaha and went to work in the insurance business. They were married in 1980. “Bill can remember the date of

June 2016

each one of the Honor Flights,” Evonne jokes, “but he can’t remember the date of our anniversary.” Actually, he can, with a little thought. It was Nov. 21, and their reception was the same evening in 1980 that 83 million people were glued to their television sets as CBS aired the famous episode of the series Dallas in which viewers learned the answer to the intriguing question, “Who shot J.R.?” At the Legion Club in Deshler, nobody was dancing, Evonne recalls. “They were all crowded into the bar, watching the TV.”

n 2008, Evonne joined the staff of the Strategic Air and Space Museum, first as deputy director, then as interim director. At the time, the museum was in desperate need of funding. Bill assumed the role of advisor and suggested a series of events, including a reunion dinner at the museum for six surviving members of the World War II Easy Company soldiers whose experiences were popularized in the Band of Brothers book and television series. That initial success was followed by events at the museum with more veterans including five Marines from the famous flag raising on Iwo Jima, a Bataan Death March veteran, several who fought in the Korean War, and five Medal of Honor recipients. About that time, Bill read an article about World War II Honor --Please turn to page 11.

Patriotic Productions sending 500 vets to D.C. June 6 --Continued from page 10. Flights in another state. “Why not Nebraska?” he wondered. “Why not?” Evonne replied. They founded Patriotic Productions, and to date have raised nearly $2 million for the Heartland Honor Flights for WWII and Korean War veterans. The couple has enough stories from those flights alone to fill a book, and someday they may. Like the time the buses carrying the vets were delayed at Dulles International Airport in Washington, D.C. “I got aboard one of the buses and said I was sorry about the delay. The veteran in the front row said, ‘Bill, don’t worry about it. I sit here or I sit in a nursing home. This is great.’”

handle it. My therapy was working in the flowerbeds. That, and prayer. I don’t know how people get by without faith.” As executive director of the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Nebraska for 16 years, Evonne was no stranger to heartache and loss. But having a son in a war zone was a new and frightening experience. “One day, I noticed my closest friends at Make-AWish had stopped asking about him, so I asked them why. They said, ‘Well, Evonne, every time we did, you cried.’” Today, she and Bill stand proud beside a huge collage of black-and-white

photographs in their living room. It is dominated by a photo of their sons in military fatigues, arms around each other’s shoulders. “The hardest part was getting them all together,” Evonne says. “They’re in four different time zones right now.”

onoring military service, and especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice, is why they founded Remembering Our Fallen, a traveling memorial of photographs of Nebraska servicemen and servicewomen who have died in “The War on Terror” since September 11, 2001. --Please turn to page 15.

In 2014, 462 Korean War veterans from Nebraska went to D.C. courtesy of Patriotic Productions.

ow, it’s time for Vietnam combat veterans to have a flight dedicated to them. The couple planned on taking 500 Nebraska Vietnam vets on this first trip – and they received 700 applications. Two Vietnam combat veterans helped make the selections. “We have 50 Purple Hearts, three Silver Stars, and six helicopter pilots who had earned the Distinguished Flying Cross,” Bill says. The one-day trip will begin with a 2 a.m. wake-up call and end with a welcome home reception at Eppley Airfield about 9 p.m. Sponsored by Hy-Vee, the reception is open to the public and it’s hoped to attract 3,000 to 4,000 people. “We’re going to have three planes, red, white, and blue,” Bill says. “We’ll have bagpipes and a color guard. We’ll march through the south terminal and then through the north, and then there will be 17 buses waiting for them out front. “It’s going to be a long day, and they’ll remember every minute.”

ill and Evonne have four sons: Ben, Tom, Sam, and Max. Ben and Sam are soldiers; Tom and Max, Marines. The four grew up wearing camouflage and playing paintball in the woods near their Pacific Meadows home. Years later, they would serve our country in Afghanistan and Iraq. “When the first was deployed,” Evonne says, “my flowerbeds tripled in size. I really didn’t know how to

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Match plants, growing conditions

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: Friday, June 17 11:30 a.m. Metro Community College 2909 Babe Gomez Ave. 402-457-5231

Tuesday, June 21 9:30 a.m. Sunridge Village 13410 Blondo St. 402-496-0116

Saturday, June 18 1 p.m. AARP Nebraska Info Center 1941 S. 42nd St #220 402-398-956

Saturday, June 25 10 a.m. The Premier Group 10050 Regency Cr. #508 402-557-6730

ENOA volunteer opportunities The Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging’s Foster Grandparent Program, Senior Companion Program, and Ombudsman Advocate Program are recruiting older adults to become volunteers. Foster Grandparents and Senior Companions must be age 55 or older, meet income guidelines, have a government issued identification card or a driver’s license, able to volunteer at least 15 hours a week, and must complete background and reference checks. VOTES WANTED PLEASE GO TO

www.lightthebridge.org 100% non-profit addressing hunger VOTES TO DATE • For: 3,189 • Please vote today to

HorizonAD-2010:HorizonAD-08 address hunger.

Foster Grandparents and Senior Companions receive a $2.65 an hour stipend, transportation and meal reimbursement, paid vacation, sick, and holiday leave, and supplemental accident insurance. Foster Grandparents work with children who have special needs. Senior Companions work to keep older adults living independently. Ombudsman advocates work to ensure residents of nursing homes and assisted living facilities enjoy the best possible quality of life. Ombudsman advocates are enrolled through an application and screening process. These volunteers, who are not compensated monetarily for their time, must serve at least two hours a week. To learn more, call 4022/4/10 8:00 AM Page 1 444-6536.

Gardening expert offers planting tips, low-maintenance techniques By Melinda Myers

ncrease your harvest without increasing the size of your garden or workload. All you need is a bit of intensive planting, along with some low maintenance techniques. Investing some time upfront to prepare the garden soil will save you time throughout the growing season. Add several inches of organic matter and a slow release fertilizer into the top eight to 12 inches of soil. The organic matter improves drainage in clay soils and increases moisture retention in sandy soils. The slow release fertilizer feeds the plants for several months, reducing the number of applications needed. You’ll have healthier plants that are better able to fend off pests and outcompete the weeds. Match the plants with the right growing conditions. Tomatoes, peppers, and other vegetables that produce fruit need full sun. Leafy crops like lettuce are more tolerant of shade. Check plant tags and seed packets for planting details or download a free gardening app – like Homegrown with Bonnie Plants – for plant information, maintenance tips, weather reports, and more. Plant seeds and transplants in blocks with fewer pathways. Give each plant enough room to grow to its full size. Your rows will be closer together with just enough paths for weeding, watering, and harvesting. You’ll be growing more plants and pulling fewer weeds with this strategy. Interplant to further maximize your planting space. Plant short-season vegetables like lettuce and radishes in between properly spaced longer-season vegetables like broccoli and tomatoes. By the time the longer-season plants start filling the space, the shorter season plantings will be ready to harvest. You’ll be pulling radishes or cutting lettuce instead of weeds. Plus, you’ll harvest two crops from one row. Plant successive crops throughout the growing season.

lant cool weather vegetables like spinach, radishes, and lettuce in spring. Once these are harvested, replace them with warm weather vegetables like beans, tomatoes, or cucumbers. Finish off the season by filling any voids with a fall crop of cool weather vegetables. Go vertical to save space, reduce disease, and make harvesting easier. Growing vine crops on supports lifts the fruit off the ground and increases the amount of light and airflow the plants receive, reducing the risk of disease. Plus, you’ll do less bending when it’s time to harvest. Mulch the garden with pine straw/evergreen needles, shredded leaves, or other organic matter. These materials suppress the weeds, conserve moisture, and add organic matter to the soil as they decompose. You’ll have fewer weeds to pull and not have to water as often. Save time and water with the help of soaker hoses or drip irrigation. These systems apply the water directly to the soil where it’s needed. Less water is lost to overspray, evaporation, and runoff. They also reduce the risk and spread of disease by preventing water from settling on the leaves of the plants. Try a few or all of these strategies this season for an abundant harvest without a lot of extra work. (Melinda Myers has more than 30 years of gardening experience has written more than 20 gardening books.)

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ilingual information about hospice care, palliative care, helping loved ones with grief and loss, and caregiving is available through the Nebraska Hospice and Palliative Care Partnership. The number for the Cuidando con Carino Compassionate Care HelpLine is (toll free) 1-877-658-8896. The service is offered weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Job opening The Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging is looking for a manager for its Bennington Senior Center, 322 N. Molley St. The facility is open Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The center manager’s duties include serving lunch and planning activities for the older men and women who visit the site each week. For more information, please call Susie Davern in ENOA’s nutrition division at 402-444-6513.

Fremont Friendship Program

ou’re invited to visit the Fremont Friendship Center, 1730 W. 16th St. (Christensen Field), for the following: • June 1: Pianist Wally @ 10:30 a.m. • June 2: Trip to Lauritzen Gardens from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The cost is $30. Lunch will be served at 11:30 a.m. The center closes that day at 2 p.m. • June 7: Sign up for Farmers Market coupons @ 9 a.m. See page 5 for more information. • June 8: Music by the Prairie Sounds @ 10:30 a.m. • June 15: Music by Wayne Miller @ 10:30 a.m. • June 22: Music by Joe Taylor @ 10:30 a.m. • June 29: Music by Jim Rathbun @ 10:30 a.m.

n July 10, the center will have a trolley in the John C. Fremont Parade. Sign up if you’d like to join in the fun. Lunch, featuring a hoagie sandwich, chips, water, and a cookie will be available that day for $5. 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. Other activities include exercising, Tai Chi, games, chair volleyball, Bingo, presentations by speakers, and coloring classes with Paulette For meal reservations and more information, please call Laurie at 402-727-2815.

Corrigan Senior Center

Elder Access Line

Alzheimer’s support groups

You’re invited to visit the Corrigan Senior Center, 3819 X St., this month for: • Wednesday, June 1, 8, 22, & 29: Crafts & Social group @ 10:30 a.m. This month’s projects include rope bowls, ladybugs, and stamping. • Tuesday, June 7, 14, & 21: VNA Cooking Matters class. Watch chef Corey cook healthy and delicious foods @ 10:15 a.m. • Thursday, June 9: Presentation by Chuck Johnston from the Nebraska High School Hall of Fame in Lincoln @ 11 a.m. Noon chicken Alfredo or crab macaroni salad lunch and 1 p.m. Bingo. • Wednesday, June 15: Terrific Tea. Diana from the Papillion Tea Shop will present a short talk and a tasting of various teas @ 1:30 p.m. Lunch is fish or tuna macaroni. The reservation deadline is 11 a.m. on Friday, June 10. • Thursday, June 16: Summer Celebration with music by Billy Troy @ 10 a.m. Wear your favorite summer attire for beach ball games and other fun. The reservation deadline is 11 a.m. on Friday, June 10. • Friday, June 17: Father’s Day celebration lunch and Heartland Ensemble. BBQ pork or roast beef/cheddar chef salad lunch with peach crisp is featured for lunch. Movie and popcorn @ 9:30 a.m. • Monday, June 20: Birthday party with entertainment by The Links @ 11 a.m. The reservation deadline is 11 a.m. on Friday, June 17. • Tuesday, June 21: Heartland Hoedowners perform at 1 p.m. Children ages 7 to 16 will clog to music following a noon baked ham or Oriental chicken salad lunch. • Monday, June 27: Relaxation Day. Chair massages from College of Healing Arts students and instructor. Door prizes. Stay for a noon pork cutlet or chicken deli salad 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.

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.

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. For more information about any of the groups listed below, please call (toll free) 800-272-3900.

‘Heathers: The Musical’ at Blue Barn through June 19 Heathers: The Musical will be on stage at the Blue Barn Theatre, 1106 S. 10th St., through June 19. Show times are Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Sundays, June 5, 12, and 19. With the music, lyrics, and a book written by Laurence O’Keefe and Kevin Murphy, Heathers: The Musical is the story of Veronica Sawyer’s efforts to join a ruthless clique at Westerberg High School: The Heathers. Tickets, which are $30 for adults or $25 for seniors, are available online at www.bluebarn.org or by calling 402-345-1576.

CASS COUNTY

Third Tuesday @ 6 p.m. Temple Israel (media room) 13111 Sterling Ridge Dr.

• PLATTSMOUTH Second Tuesday @ 6 p.m. First Lutheran Church (chapel) 1025 Ave. D

Early Stage Support Group Every other Tuesday (Beginning June 14 for eight sessions) @ 6 p.m. REGISTRATION REQUIRED Call Diane @ 402-502-4301 X 8251 for locations & to register.

DODGE COUNTY • FREMONT Last Wednesday @ 2 p.m. Nye Square 655 W. 23rd St.

Caring for Your Parents Second or third Saturday @ 11 a.m. Call Teri @ 402-393-0434 for locations

Second Tuesday @ 5:30 p.m. Shalimar Gardens (second floor community room) 749 E. 29th St. DOUGLAS COUNTY

Admission is $2

• OMAHA

Dance Wednesdays at Legion Post #1

Second Thursday @ 10 a.m. Country House Residences 5030 S. 155th St. FREE on site adult day services are provided.

ou’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.

Spanish Language Support Group Second Tuesday @ 4 p.m. Intercultural Community Center 3010 R St. SARPY COUNTY • BELLEVUE

Every other Monday @ 7 p.m. Brighton Gardens 9220 Western Ave. Third Wednesday @ 3 p.m. Fountain View Senior Living 5710 S 108th St.

Hearing loss group

First & third Monday @ 1:30 p.m. New Cassel’s Franciscan Centre 900 N. 90th St. FREE on-site adult day services are provided.

The Omaha Area Hearing Loss Association of America, a support group for hard of hearing adults, will next meet on Tuesday, June 14 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.

Third Monday @ 7 p.m. Bellevue Senior Center 109 W. 22nd Ave. First Wednesday @ 1 p.m. Eastern Nebraska Vets Home (Vets and non-vets welcome) 12505 S. 40th St.

Third Tuesday @ 5 p.m. Immanuel Fontenelle 6809 N 68th Plz.

Fourth Thursday @ 6 p.m. Hillcrest Grand Lodge 6021 Grand Lodge Ave. Second Tuesday @ 5:30 p.m. Heritage Ridge 1502 Fort Crook Rd. South

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Omaha Bone Health Group to meet Wednesday, June 8

he Omaha Area Bone Health Group, sponsored by the Creighton University Osteoporosis Research Center and affiliated with the National Osteoporosis Foundation Support Group program, offers free programs each month in Room 5766 at the Alegent Creighton University Medical Center, 601 N. 30th St.

Here’s this month’s program: • Wednesday, June 8 The Challenge of Good Nutrition With registered dietitian Nancy Bertolino 1 to 2:30 p.m. To RSVP or for more information, please call Susan Recker at 402-2804810 contact her online at srecker@creighton.edu.

Mizzou study examines real-time method for treating stroke patients

ccording to the American Heart Association, ischemic strokes account for nearly 90 percent of all strokes. They occur when a blocked artery prevents blood from getting to the brain and usually result in longterm disability or death. Now, a team of researchers led by the University of Missouri School of Medicine has developed a new, real-time method of imaging molecular events after strokes, a finding that may lead to improved care for patients.

“Our team hypothesized that if we could visualize and track this activity in real time, we could then work on developing a way to block the activity and prevent brain damage from occurring.” “During an ischemic stroke, harmful enzymes called gelatinase become overactive in areas of the brain where blood flow is cut off,” said Zezong Gu, Ph.D., an associate professor of pathology and anatomical sciences at the MU School of Medicine and lead author of the study. “Over-activation of these enzymes causes brain damage. Our team hypothesized that if we could visualize and track this activity in real-time, we could then work on developing a way to block the activity and prevent brain damage from occurring.” Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is commonly used to diagnose strokes because it produces precise, sectional images of the brain. Although these images can verify the region of arterial blockages within the brain, current contrast agents are not specific or sensitive enough to reveal important molecular events, such as gelatinase activity, on an MRI image. To overcome this obstacle, the researchers used peptides that specifically recognize gelatinase activity. The peptides were tagged with contrast agents through a process developed by research team member Roger Tsien, Ph.D., a biochemist and Nobel Laureate at the University of California San Diego. “Once the tagged peptides traveled to the site of increased gelatinase activity, they were absorbed into the cells with this activated enzyme,” Gu said. “When enough of these peptides were absorbed, the stroke site was visible on an MRI. We tested this technique in both cell-based and mouse models of ischemic stroke. Using this method, we successfully tracked gelatinase activity.” Gu suggests real-time imaging of this activity could lead to a better understanding of how to treat strokes and mediate the damage they cause. “Our findings indicate tagged peptides can be used as a non-invasive probe to detect and track gelatinase activity,” Gu said. “This process may serve as an additional tool for clinicians to treat their patients if a viable inhibitor can be developed to prevent the damage caused by this activity.” Gu and his team are working to develop such a gelatinase inhibitor. (The University of Missouri provided this information.)

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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

Study looks at the bond between pets, their owners

he Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends adults of all ages should engage in 150 or more minutes of moderate physical activity per week. Among adults 60 years of age or more, walking is the most common form of leisure-time physical activity because it’s self-paced, low impact, and doesn’t require equipment. Researchers at the University of Missouri have determined older adults who are also pet owners benefit from the bonds they form with their canine companions. Dog walking is associated with lower body mass index, fewer doctor visits, more frequent exercise, and an increase in social benefits for older men and women. “Our study explored the associations between dog ownership and pet bonding with walking behavior and health outcomes in older adults,” said Rebecca Johnson, a professor in the MU College of Veterinary Medicine and the Millsap

June 2016

Professor of Gerontological Nursing in the Sinclair School of Nursing. “This study provides evidence for the association between dog walking and physical health using a large, nationally representative sample,” she said. The research analyzed 2012 data from the Health and Retirement study sponsored by the National Institute on Aging and the Social Security Administration. The study included data about human-animal interactions, physical activity, frequency of doctor visits, and health outcomes of the participants. “Our results showed dog ownership and walking were related to increases in physical health among older adults,” said Johnson, who also serves as director of the Research Center for Human-Animal Interaction at MU. “These results can provide the basis for medical professionals to recommend pet ownership for older adults and can be translated into reduced health care expenditures for the aging population.” Results from the study also indicated people with higher degrees of pet bonding were more likely to walk their dogs and to spend more time walking their dogs each time than those who reported weaker bonds. Additionally, the study showed that pet walking offers a means to socialize with pet owners and others. Retirement communities also could be encouraged to incorporate more pet-friendly policies such as including dog walking trails and dog exercise areas so their residents could have access to the health benefits, Johnson said.

Omaha Fire Department

Honor Flights...

Bill Williams

Evonne Williams

--Continued from page 11. The project has since grown to become a national effort, with the Williamses working diligently to secure funding for and to create memorials in all 50 states. So far, they have completed 18 state exhibits including California, a single state that accounts for 10 percent of the losses. Each state’s memorial and tour schedule may be viewed online at rememberingourfallen.org.

hough tireless in their efforts, the Williamses would welcome funding and sponsors to help them reach their goals – and perhaps to do even more for veterans and their families. Bill says the biggest fear for other parents is that a son or daughter who served and died is going to be forgotten. “These families need us to help everyone remember how much these heroes’ lives mean.” Because remembering is really the only way we can travel back through time.

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.

Fed employee groups Volunteer instructors meet at Omaha eatery needed for AARP’s driver safety program he National Ac-

tive 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 Retired 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

ARP is recruiting men and women who have access to a computer

to serve as volunteer instructors and coordinators for its Driver Safety Program. To learn more about the AARP Driver Safety Program, log on the Internet to www.aarp.org/drive. For more information about volunteering, log on to www.aarp.org/volunteernow or call 1-888-227-7669.

Stan’s Senior Services

Papillion Senior Singers Older men and women 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.

We offer daily, weekly, or occasional ERRAND and AT-HOME (inside/outside) services for older adults in the Omaha area. -- INSURED, HONEST, RELIABLE --

Please call Stan Bartak @ 402-350-6840 HelpingSeniorsAtHome@cox.net www.StansSeniorServices.com

Need a hand at home? Stan can help!

The Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging has been providing programs and services for older adults in Douglas, Sarpy, Dodge, Cass, and Washington counties since 1974.

You can receive your FREE copy of the New Horizons each month in any of ways!

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Heartland Generations Center You’re invited to visit the Heartland Generations Center – 4318 Fort St. – for the following: • Tuesday, June 7: Birthday party with music by Tim Javorsky from the Merrymakers @ 12:30 p.m. A free ice cream sundae for attendees with a June birthday. • Thursday, June 9: Farmers Market coupons will be handed out. Numbers will be assigned when participants come inside the center that day. • Monday, June 13: Step-by-step WhyArts? drawing class with Joe Broghammer @ 10 a.m. • Friday, June 24: First annual Whist tournament will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. First, second, and third place prizes and a trophy for the winning team. Call Karen at 402-5527480 to register your team. • Thursday, June 30: Presentation on MUD @ 10:45 a.m. 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. Bus transportation is available within select neighborhoods for 50 cents each way. Regular activities include Bingo (Monday @ 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 and more information, please call 402-553-5300.

1 2 3

Pick up a copy at one of the more than 100 distribution sites (grocery stores, restaurants, senior centers, libraries, etc.) Through the United States mail New subscribers should send their name, address, and zip code to: New Horizons, 4223 Center Street, Omaha, NE 68105. Online on your computer* Send your email address to jeff.reinhardt@nebraska.gov * Online subscribers will not receive a hard copy of the New Horizons each month.

For more information, please call 402-444-6654. June 2016

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Page 15

Several practical uses for your tin cans

ou probably take a large number of tin cans to the recycling bin. Kudos to those people who recycle these cans. Visualize for a moment a large grocery store. Let your eyes wander up and down the aisles. How many tin cans are there? Probably half of those shelves overflow with tin cans. America does a lot of cooking, baking, and eating using items from these cans. Getting rid of the empty cans by recycling is the best way to dispose of them, but before you toss them away, determine if you can make use of a few tin cans the house. Start by saving various size cans. There is, of course, the ubiquitous pencil holder. This probably constitutes the most common reuse of the tin can. That’s OK, but don’t just let it sit on your desk unadorned. Decorate it, paint it, cover it with cloth or wallpaper, glue on ornaments, or wrap the can in yarn. The round tuna fish cans and the oblong breath mint cans, with or without the lids, make great organizers. Place several of these in a drawer to collect all those small items you find inside a desk or on top of a bureau. Gone are the days of searching for a lost key or messing with scattered paper clips. Using cans in this way is a great way to de-clutter your home. If you don’t recycle those plastic bags you get when you grocery shop, save them in a can. Find a large can that has a plastic cover, perhaps a coffee can or a large commercial can. Cut a large hole in the cover, stuff the bags inside the can, and pull a bag out one at a time. No longer will you have a pile of bags scattering about. In the kitchen you can use a soup can or a can of another size as a biscuit or cookie cutter. Now your biscuits and cookies will have a uniform shape. Take several tall cans, paint them in one or several colors, glue their sides together in a pyramid, and you have a wine rack. The cans don’t have to be as tall as a wine bottle, just long enough to hold the bottle. This makes an appealing sight sitting on a cabinet surface. Use this same idea elsewhere in the house. Stack and decorate cans to become a cubby for your different colored yarns or scarves. You no longer need to hide your bathroom towels or washcloths in a drawer. Roll them up and stuff them into a cubby made of various size cans. Using tin cans as flower or plant pots is certainly not a new idea. Paint these cans in various colors and arrange various sizes into attractive groupings. Don’t just set them down somewhere. Hang them with rope holders, pile them in an overlapping assortment, or nail them to a wall. A small can, like a vegetable or beans can, makes a great starter pot. Just punch a small hole in the bottom for drainage.

ant to attract more birds to your yard? Another use for a hanging tin can is a bird feeder or even a bird’s nest. For a feeder, cut a can open only half way around and fold that portion back on itself. Glue another lid onto the end of the can or a strip of tin to give the bird a resting place. Hang with wire or rope. For a nest, secure the can to a surface to keep it from swinging. Use different size cans to attract different species of birds. Your deck or patio will sparkle at night with luminary cans. Remove only one end of a can and punch little holes around the side. These holes can be at random or in a design. Paint the can a dark color, preferably black, and then install a short candle. You can also punch a hole in the bottom of the can to allow for the cord of an electric light to pass through. Either way, you now have eye-catching lighting outdoors. They’re also attractive indoors.

onor our Native Americans and build a totem pole. For this project, you want large cans. Cut off the top of a large laundry detergent bottle and trim the edges into wings. The cans can be stacked and glued on each other to set on a table. On the other hand, you can run a pole of any length and pass it through the cans and the detergent top, wrap the bottom of the pole in duct tape, and push it into the ground. You now have a piece of outdoor art. Make a tin can snowman by taking three large cans, either the same or different sizes, and paint them white. Attach large buttons on the front. Punch a hole on each side and insert twig or branch arms. Draw a carrot nose or attach a real carrot. More buttons can make a mouth and eyes. Lids can make ears. Then give the statue a hat and a scarf and you now have your own snowman. Your grandkids probably love The Wizard of Oz. Help them make their own tin man by joining undecorated cans together. Various sizes can make arms, legs, the body, and a head. Glue on buttons for eyes and a coat front. Decorate for a nose and mouth, perhaps give him a hat, and don’t forget he needs a heart. Avoid cuts and accidents. Choose cans with smooth edges or file the edges smooth. Make sure all cans are clean, inside and out. Most projects require removing the labels, but if you choose to retain the label, give it a good coating of shellac to protect it. Obtain tin cutting shears from the hardware store for use in shaping cans. Don’t use your kitchen scissors. Use non-watersoluble glue, such as super glue, when affixing buttons and other objects to the tin cans. (Earth Talk is responsible for this information.)

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Take a moment to consider

The physical, environmental dangers involved in walking

ou may be walking outside, but don’t take your walking routine lightly. While walking is a simple and effective exercise, it can put you at risk for falls and other injuries. As a result, physical and environmental dangers may turn a walk outside into a trip to the hospital, sabotaging your good intentions to stay healthy. Consider the following hazards and fixes before you start walking. • Back, hip, knee, ankle, or foot pain; muscle weakness; imbalance from neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease; dizziness from inner ear conditions; vision problems; or a combination of these are common gait and stability issues. All of the above issues may cause falls, especially on uneven pavement or ground. Falling can result in fractures and permanent disability. Get an evaluation from your doctor and seek appropriate treatment. Correcting the problem may be as simple as a six-week course of physical therapy or an updated eyeglasses prescription. Once outside, avoid walking on sidewalks with uneven or broken pavement. “Make sure you wear a good pair of walking shoes or sneakers,” says Elissa Huber-Anderson, a physical therapist at Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital. Don’t forget your sunglasses when walking outdoors. Vision plays an important part in balance, as glare can make it difficult to see oncoming traffic or changes in pavement. If you’re walking on park trails, consider using hiking or trekking poles for stability. Age-related hearing loss, tumors, abnormal bone growth, earwax buildup, or nerve cell damage from exposure to loud noise are hearing impairments that can impact your walking. Hearing loss from any cause will keep you from detecting important sounds on city and neighborhood streets such as oncoming traffic, bicycles, warning sirens, alarms, or even assailants. That increases your risk of getting hurt. Get an exam from your primary care doctor or an ear, nose, and throat specialist. “If the cause is earwax buildup, we can remove the blockage in the office. If you have hearing loss, you’ll need to see an audiologist for hearing testing to determine the type and severity of loss,” said Dr. Steven Rauch, an ENT at Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary. You may then be a candidate for hearing aids,” he added. Looking down at a health tracker, texting, or wearing headphones may prevent you from seeing or hearing potential dangers. “No matter where you are, being aware of your environment is important to staying safe. If your awareness of auditory cues is reduced, you will be more dependent on visual cues, and vice versa,” says Dr. Rauch. When listening to music, use only one earbud or place your headphones to leave one ear uncovered, so you can still hear noises in your walking environment. If you must look down, like at a smartphone, stop walking for a moment, then resume when you’ve finished. If you spend more than a minute looking down, take a moment to note your surroundings. Walking alone or walking without a way to call for help can be dangerous. If you fall or suffer a heart attack when walking alone, the outcome could be worse if you’re unable to call for assistance. Also, being alone may make you a target for attackers who prey on older adults. Walk with a buddy on a familiar route, or at least walk where there are others around. Carry a cellphone or an alert button to contact emergency responders. “You never want to find yourself unwell and unable to make it back home, or worse, having fallen with no way to contact emergency services,” says Huber-Anderson.

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New Horizons Club membership roll rises $100 James Stephenson $25 Norma Harrow $15 Charles Agosta Reflects donations received through 5/20/16

Supper Club at Louisville Senior Center The City of Louisville and ENOA’s Nutrition Division are hosting a Supper Club on Wednesday, June 29 at the Louisville Senior Center, 423 Elm St. The festivities begin with a 5 p.m. “cocktail” hour followed by a supper featuring ham, potatoes, peas, salad, and a vanilla tart at 5:45. After the meal, Chris Sayre from Humanities Nebraska, will do a presentation on the history of ethnic music across the state. A $4 contribution is suggested for the supper for men and women age 60 and older and $9.25 for persons under age 60. Reservations – that need to be made by June 23 – are available by calling Kris Dial at 402-234-2120.

Resource information available through 211 telephone 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; support for older Americans and persons with a disability; and volunteer opportunities. The 211 network is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

UK study examines how family-style dining can help persons with dementia avoid dehydration, malnutrition

ating together and providing social support and interaction during meals could help people with dementia avoid dehydration and malnutrition, according to new research from the University of East Anglia in the United Kingdom. Findings published recently reveal that while no interventions were unequivocally successful, promising approaches focused on a holistic approach to mealtimes. The research team found eating family-style meals with caregivers, playing music, and engaging with multisensory exercise could all help boost nutrition, hydration, and quality of life among people with dementia. “The risk of dehydration and malnutrition is high in older people, but even higher in those with dementia,” said lead researcher Dr. Lee Hooper from UEA’s Norwich Medical School said. “Malnutrition is associated with poor quality of life so understanding how to help people eat and drink well is very important in supporting health and quality of life for people with dementia,” he continued. “We wanted to find out what families or caregivers can do to help people with dementia eat well and drink enough.” The researchers systematically reviewed data from around the world and assessed the effectiveness of

56 interventions that aimed to improve, maintain, or facilitate food or drink intake among more than 2,200 people with dementia. Interventions tested included changing the color of the plate, increasing exercise, waitress service, playing different types of music, singing, doing Tai-Chi, creating a home-like eating environment, providing nutrition supplements, and boosting the social aspect of eating. They also looked at whether better education and training for formal or informal caregivers could help, as well as behavioral interventions such as giving encouragement for eating. The research team assessed whether these interventions improved hydration status and body weight, and whether the intervention helped older people enjoy the experience of eating or drinking and improved their quality of life. “We found a number of promising interventions including eating meals with caregivers, having family-style meals, facilitating social interaction during meals, longer mealtimes, playing soothing mealtime music, doing multisensory exercise, and providing constantly accessible snacks,” Dr. Hooper said. “One of the problems of this research is that many of the studies we looked at were too small to draw any firm conclusions, so no interventions should be clearly ruled in or out and more research in this area is needed. “It is probably not just what people with dementia eat and drink that is important for their nutritional wellbeing and quality of life – but a holistic mix of where they eat and drink, the atmosphere, physical and social support offered, the understanding of formal caregivers, and levels of physical activity enjoyed.”

Program to address financial protection

ora Dowd Eisenhower, assistant director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s Office of Financial Protection for Older Americans, will be the guest speaker at a program titled Money Smart for Older Adults. Sponsored by the Better Business Bureau Foundation and AARP, the free program will be held on Thursday, June 23 from 8:30 to 10 a.m. at the Embassy Suites, 12520 Westport Pkwy. in LaVista. Topics will include types of elder financial exploitation, identity theft, scams that target homeowners, planning for unexpected life events, and scams targeting veterans. To register or for more information, please contact Teresa Stitcher-Fritz at 402-476-8822 by June 13.

Computer research topic of June 28 genealogical meeting The Greater Omaha Genealogical Society is offering a free computer research class on June 28 from 9:15 a.m. to noon at a yet to be determined site. To register and for more information, contact Merrily at 402-706-1453 or genclass@aol.com. VOTES WANTED PLEASE GO TO

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Page 17

Volunteer drivers needed for ENOA’s Meals on Wheels program

Barry Reid

Jean McIntosh

Rosie Hunter

Doug Hartman

he Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging is recruiting volunteer drivers for its Meals on Wheels program. These volunteers are typically asked to deliver 10 to 15 meals on a flexible, lunch hour, weekday schedule. “Our volunteers are often retired men and women or they may come from area businesses and churches with one thing in common,” said Arlis Smidt, who has coordinated ENOA’s Meals on Wheels program for 26 years. “They want to make their communities better.” Volunteers deliver approximately 20 percent of the program’s meals. “This has a significant impact on the budget,” Smidt said. “The volunteers save us about $60,000 annually in labor and delivery costs; savings that help sustain the program. The volunteers also provide more than what can be measured financially with their smiles, watchful eyes, and listening ears.” Persons interested in volunteering with the Meals on Wheels program must apply through ENOA’s SeniorHelp Program where they’ll need to complete a screening process. To apply, go online to enoa.org. Click on VOLUNTEER, and then click on SENIORHELP PROGRAM.

riving a silver Toyota, Theresa Howell parks in front of Lois’ west Omaha home. She gets out of the car, opens a back door, takes the lid off a Styrofoam cooler, and pulls out a hot tray filled with a hamburger patty and two kinds of vegetables. A hamburger bun, dessert, and a carton of skim milk complete the menu. Theresa steps on Lois’ front porch and rings the doorbell. A smiling Lois answers the door, and then accepts the meal from Howell who returns the smile. Howell has delivered meals for the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging’s Meals on Wheels program for more than 25 years. She began volunteering as a member of the Ladies Guild at St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church, 11900 Pacific St. The second Monday of each month, Howell delivers eight to 12 meals to homebound older adults for ENOA. “I enjoy the smiles and the thanks I receive,” Theresa said. “It’s a small thing I can do with great love.” Lois appreciates Howell’s arrival each month. “Seeing a friendly face is always a pleasure,” she said. Thanks to Howell and hundreds of other dedicated volunteers, paid drivers, agency employees, and catering staffs, the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging has helped thousands of older Nebraskans maintain their independence and dignity at home through its home-delivered meals program. Hot, nutritious, home-delivered meals have been available midday in the Omaha area since 1972 when the Visiting Nurse Associa-

tion (VNA) began its mobile meals program. ENOA implemented a network of congregate meals sites (senior centers) in Douglas, Sarpy, Dodge, Cass, and Washington counties in the mid 1970s. Soon thereafter, the participants began requesting pre-packaged noon hour meals that could be delivered to their homes if they became ill. In response, the agency started a home-delivered meals program, Smidt said. From 1980 to ’89, the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging contracted with VNA to merge Omaha’s two primary home-delivered meals programs. The arrangement ended in 1989 when ENOA established its own meals delivery system that featured paid and volunteer drivers. Since that time, ENOA has delivered close to six million meals to homebound older adults in its fivecounty service area. “We’ve been able to provide this important service for more than a quarter century thanks in part to a lot of hard work by volunteers who genuinely care about the meals recipients,” Smidt said.

he congregation at Presbyterian Church of the Cross – 1517 S. 114th St. – has delivered meals for ENOA twice a week for 10 years. Doug Hartman, one of its members, has been part of the crew for nine years.

The retired accountant said delivering meals is a great way for him to give back to others. Delivering meals every Wednesday and Friday has allowed volunteer Rosie Hunter to meet dozens of wonderful people. “One man used to take a candy bar out of his pocket and give it to me each time I brought him a meal,” she said. “I know the meals play a big part in keeping them independent (and living in their own homes).” Jean McIntosh attends Countryside Community Church, 8787 Pacific St. Its congregation has delivered meals for ENOA for more than 25 years. McIntosh, a meals driver since retiring seven years ago, said volunteering is very rewarding. “The people I deliver to are so thankful.” Barry Reid, who retired from First Data Resources in 2000, began volunteering for the Meals on Wheels program while still working at FDR 20 years ago. “I’m aging myself and I see the need for this program,” he said. “I’ve also made a lot of friends over the years.” Howell plans to continue delivering meals as a volunteer as long as she’s able. “In giving, you receive,” she said. For more information about becoming a volunteer driver with ENOA’s Meals on Wheels program, please contact Smidt at 402-4446766 or arlis.smidt@nebraska.gov.

Theresa Howell began delivering meals for ENOA through the Ladies Guild at St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church.

Sixty volunteers honored at Senior Companions luncheon

Singer Derek Ventura entertained the volunteers and guests at the annual SCP luncheon May 17.

usical entertainment by the United States Air Force Band from Offutt Air Force Base and singer Derek Ventura were among the highlights last month as 60 Senior Companion Program volunteers were honored at the SCP’s annual luncheon at the D.C. Centre. The theme of the 2016 celebration was Share Today, Shape Tomorrow. Sponsored locally by the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging, the Senior Companion Program is a national program of the Corporation for National and Community Service through the Senior Service Corps. Senior Companions must be at least age 55, meet income guidelines, and serve 15 or more hours a week. Applicants must complete an enrollment process that includes references and background checks. SCP volunteers help other older adults maintain their independence by visiting them at home to discuss the news of the day, play cards, read mail, watch TV – and in some cases – run errands or go shopping. Senior Companions receive a $2.65 an hour tax-free stipend, mileage reimbursement, an annual physical exam, supplemental accident insurance coverage, and other benefits. They may also be eligible for meals while on duty. For more information about becoming a Senior Companion, please call 402-561-2217 or 402-561-2247.

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June 2016

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New Horizons

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Page 19

Red noses featured at the annual FGP recognition luncheon

he room at the D.C. Centre was filled with smiling faces and people wearing a red nose. While it may have looked like a clown convention or a meeting of Rudolph the Reindeer enthusiasts, the celebration was actually the Foster Grandparent Program’s annual recognition luncheon on May 4. Sponsored locally by the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging, the Foster Grandparent Program is a national program of the Corporation for National and Community Service through the Senior Service Corps. Foster Grandparents must be age 55 and older, able to meet income guidelines, and willing to serve at least 15 hours per week. Applicants must complete an enrollment process including reference and background checks. These older men and women serve as positive role models for children who need special attention

with education, healthcare, and social development in schools, hospitals, Head Start Programs, and child development centers. Foster Grandparents receive a tax-free stipend of $2.65 an hour, mileage reimbursement, meals while on duty, an annual physical examination, supplemental accident insurance coverage, and other benefits including the annual recognition luncheon.

his year, 64 volunteers were honored at the luncheon that featured a delicious meal and entertainment by singer Derek Ventura. The red noses were worn to thank Walgreens which helped celebrate Red Nose Day across America on Thursday, May 26. Started in the United Kingdom by Comic Relief more than 30 years ago, Red Nose Day uses the power of entertainment and laughter to help fight kids’ poverty around

Willie Mae Morrison (right) has been a Foster Gtandparent since 2003. She attended the recognition luncheon with her daughter, Suzy Morrison (left). the world. The Red Noses were sold exclusively in the United States at Walgreens.

All money raised went to the Red Nose Fund that helps children in the United States and abroad.

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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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PACE participants may be fully and personally liable for the costs of unauthorized or out-of-PACE program services. Emergency services are covered. Participants may disenroll at any time.

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Page 20

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New Horizons

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Book shows how to leave messages for your family, friends

ope Stevens has written a book designed to help people leave letters and other information for family and friends to read after the author has died. My Message Book allows individuals to share final words, life stories, and other insights that will help those left behind through the grieving process. “This is a special book that helps everyone prepare to say the things that are important to them and to not leave it up to someone else to say them to family and friends,” Stevens said. To order My Message Book, please contact Stevens at 720-322-5024 or cherishedwords@gmail.com.

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