New Horizons February 2019

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A publication of the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging

February 2019 VOL. 44 • NO. 2

ENOA 4780 South 131st Street Omaha, NE 68137-1822

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

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New Horizons old • er 74 adul ts since 19

Hope hero

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

In recognition of her efforts fighting crime, planting gardens, and hosting an annual block party in her neighborhood, Vanessa Ward had a four-block stretch of Omaha’s North 38th Street named in her honor. A published author and an ordained minister, Ward ran for Nebraska governor in 2018.

Leo Adam Biga profiles Ward beginning on page 10.

SENIOR COMPANIONS Senior Companion Program volunteer Violet Wooten (right) visits Lucille Williams (left) in Williams’ home three days a week.

During a recent visit, Wooten helped Williams get outside quickly when a fire broke out inside the house.

See page 20.

FremontFriendship Friendship Center Fremont Center

Alums encouraged to join IGO for concert honoring Penington

You’re invited to visit the Fremont Friendship Center, 1730 W. 16th St. (Christensen Field), for the following: • Feb. 6: Question & Answer session about the center’s meals, activities, and programs @ 10 a.m. followed by music with pianist Wally @ 10:30 a.m.

• Feb. 13: Music by Billy Troy @ 10:30 a.m.

• Feb. 14: Valentine’s Day celebration. We’ll crown our new King and Queen @ 10:15 a.m. and play bingo @ 10:30 a.m.

• Feb. 20: Enjoy cinnamon rolls from Nye Square @ 9 a.m. followed by a presentation on Heart Healthy Eating.

• Feb. 27: Music by John Worsham @ 10:30 a.m.

The facility will be closed on Feb. 18 for Presidents Day. Walking in the main arena Tuesday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. is encouraged. Keep track of your miles in our walking book.

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 $4 contribution is suggested for the lunch.

Reservations must be made by noon the business day prior to the meal you wish to enjoy.

For meal reservations and more information, please call Laurie at 402-727-2815.

Camelot Friendship Center You’re invited to visit the Camelot Friendship Center inside the Camelot Community Center, 9270 Cady Ave., this month for the following: • Feb. 1, 5, 8, 15, 19, & 26: Art class @ 10 a.m.

• Feb. 4, 7, 21, & 28: Puzzles @ 10:30 a.m.

• Feb. 4: Bingo @ 12:15 p.m.

• Feb. 6 & 20: Westroads walk @ 10:15 a.m.

• Feb. 7, 14, 21, & 28: Beachball toss and lunch @ 11:30 a.m.

• Feb. 8: Council meeting @ 12:15 p.m.

• Feb. 12: Talk on fall prevention @ 11:45 a.m.

• Feb. 14: Book club @ 10:15 a.m.

• Feb. 20: Music by Pamela Sue sponsored by the Merrymakers.

• Feb. 22: Hand massages @ 10 a.m.

• Feb. 25: Scrabble and chess @ 10:30 a.m.

The Camelot Friendship Center will be closed on Feb. 18 for Presidents Day. The center is open weekdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Lunch is served at 11:30 a.m. A $4 contribution is suggested for the meal. Reservations are due by noon the business day prior to the meal you wish to enjoy.

Regular center activities include chair volleyball, Tai Chi, bingo, art classes, and card games.

For meals reservations or more information, please call 402-444-3091.

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lums of the Intergeneration Orchestra of Omaha (IGO) are invited to perform with the 201819 IGO at its annual Pops & Pie concert. The Sunday, April 14 performance will begin at 3 p.m. at the Witherspoon Concert Hall inside the Joslyn Art Museum, 2200 Dodge St. The concert will be a tribute to Chuck Penington, the longtime IGO conductor who died in November 2018.

A special project of the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging, the IGO – in its Chuck Penington 34th season – consists of musicians age 20 and younger and age 50 and older.

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GO alums will join this season’s orchestra on two selections: Crane Day (an original Penington composition) and Second Wind, the IGO’s theme song. Crane Day will be conducted by Chuck’s son, Logan Penington.

A rehearsal for the concert will be on Sunday, April 7 from 2 to 5 p.m. at First Christian Church, 6630 Dodge St. A dress rehearsal will be held at the Witherspoon Concert Hall on April 14 at 1 p.m.

For more information, IGO alums are asked to contact Chris Gillette by Sunday, March 31 at 402-444-6536, ext. 1021 or chris.gillette@nebraska.gov.

Senior Companions, Foster Grandparents

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en and women age 55 and older who want to earn a tax-free stipend while making an impact in their community are encouraged to join the Senior Companion Program and the Foster Grandparent Program.

Sponsored locally by the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging, the SCP and FGP are national programs of the Corporation for National and Community Service through the Senior Service Corps.

Senior Companions help other older adults maintain their independence by visiting them at home to discuss the news, read mail, play cards, run errands, etc.

Foster Grandparents serve as positive role models for children who need special attention with education, healthcare, and social development in schools, Head Start programs, and child development centers.

SCP and FGP volunteers must meet income guidelines and complete an enrollment process that includes references and background checks.

In exchange for volunteering 15 hours or more per week, Foster Grandparents and Senior Companions receive a $2.65 an hour tax-free stipend, mileage reimbursement, an annual physical examination, supplemental accident insurance coverage, and other benefits including an annual recognition luncheon.

The stipend does not interfere with rent, disability, Medicaid, or other benefits.

For more information on the FGP and SCP, please call 402-444-6536.

How is your puppy handling the winter weather?

Winter brings a number of distractions and factors that tend to keep people from getting outside and staying active. From holiday parties and vacations to bad weather, it’s important to keep health and exercise at the top of your mind throughout the busy season.

This is especially important for your furry friends since they depend on their owners to keep them healthy and active.

Help keep your dog happy and healthy throughout the winter season with these tips, and for more information on healthy habits for your dog, visit IAMS.com.

• Keep table food on the table: With colder weather comes heavier, heartier food. While you may be tempted to share some of your delicious dinner or toss your pup some party snacks, these rich foods can lead to digestive issues for your dog. If you want to treat your dog, try mixing a bit of wet food into his dry kibble for a savory surprise.

• Feed the right food: An important step in keeping a pet healthy is to establish and maintain proper nutrition habits, starting with selecting the right type of food. You’ll want to look

February 2019

for a pet food that includes high-quality ingredients.

IAMS dog food offers quality protein and essential vitamins and minerals to help dogs stay healthy and active during the colder months. The brand also offers breed specific dry dog food recipes, customized to meet the unique needs of six of the most popular dog breeds • Bundle up: It may be too cold to enjoy an entire afternoon outside, but don’t forget your dog has a fur coat and needs to stay active and expel energy year round. Make sure you have the proper winter gear for you and your pup.

Depending on your dog’s needs, consider protective gear for winter such as a coat to keep him warm or booties for his feet to prevent salt on the ground from irritating his paws.

• Stock up on toys: Some days heading outside into winter weather doesn’t happen. Whether it’s snowing, sleeting, or just too cold, safety should come first.

However, your dog will still have energy to release, so keep a variety of toys on-hand to keep him busy and active. Toss around a ball for a short-range game of fetch or play some tug-of-war with one of his favorite toys.

(This information was provided by Family Features.

Photo courtesy of Fotolia.)

Heartland Generations Center

Call 402-444-6536

ENOA recruiting vols to serve as Long-term Care Ombudsmen

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he Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging is looking for men and women age 21 and older to join its Long-term Care Ombudsman Program which is co-sponsored by the Nebraska State Ombudsman Program.

ENOA’s Long-term Care Ombudsmen volunteer in local long-term care facilities and assisted living communities to protect the residents’ rights, well-being, and quality of life.

Long-term Care Ombudsmen must complete 20 hours of initial classroom training and 12 hours of additional training every two years. During the training, the volunteers learn about the residents’ rights, aging issues, Medicare, Medicaid, communication skills, how to investigate the residents’ complaints, the importance of confidentiality, and about the federal and state rules, regulations, and laws regarding Nebraska’s long-term care facilities and assisted living communities.

Before being assigned to a long-term care facility or an assisted living community, new volunteers will make four visits to a site with an experienced Ombudsman Advocate to learn more about what the program entails. After a three-month probationary period, the new volunteers are certified as Ombudsman Advocates.

Certified Ombudsman Advocates will be assigned to a long-term care facility or an assisted living community where they’ll visit for two hours a week to meet with administrators, residents, and the residents’ family members to address concerns.

For more information about ENOA’s Long-term Care Ombudsman Program, please call Beth Nodes at 402-444-6536.

You’re invited to visit the Heartland Generations Center – 4318 Fort St. – for the following: • Feb. 5: Attend Gospel Fest at UNMC. We’ll leave the center @ 10:30 a.m.

• Feb. 6: Krafts with Kina @ 10 a.m.

• Feb. 11: WhyArts @ 10:30 a.m.

• Feb. 13: Soul food luncheon @ Clarkson. We’ll leave the center @ 11 a.m.

• Feb. 14: Valentine’s Day with the GUILD, music sponsored by the Merrymakers, and a birthday celebration @ 11 a.m.

• Feb. 20: Nebraska Methodist Nursing College students will visit @ 10 a.m.

• Feb. 21: Open house from 5 to 7 p.m.

• Feb. 22: Attend the Shrine Circus at the Mid-America Center in Council Bluffs. We’ll leave the center @ 12:15 p.m.

• Feb. 27: Manicures

by Wanda @ 10 a.m.

A series of senior education groups will be announced later.

The center will be closed on Feb. 18 for Presidents Day. Play bingo on Wednesdays and Fridays @ 1 p.m. Tai Chi Tuesday and Friday @ 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 $4 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.

For meal reservations and more information, please call 402-553-5300.

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, 4780 S. 131st Street, Omaha, NE 68137-1822.

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 ENOA Board of Governors: Mary Ann Borgeson, Douglas County, chairperson; Lisa Kramer, Washington County, vice-chairperson; Janet McCartney, Cass County, secretary; David Saalfeld, Dodge County, & Jim Warren, Sarpy 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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Which states fight hardest against elder abuse?

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ith the share of U.S. adults age 65 and older expected to be one in five by the year 2030 and more than 95 percent of elder abuse cases going unreported every year, the personal finance website WalletHub recently released its report on States with the Best Elder Abuse Protection.

To determine which states fight the hardest against elder abuse, WalletHub compared the 50 states and the District of Columbia across 14 key metrics. The data set ranges from the share of elder abuse, gross neglect, and exploitation complaints to the presence of financial elder abuse laws.

Nebraska ranked 38 in the survey.

The states with the best elder abuse protection are Massachusetts, Wisconsin, Nevada, Michigan, Arizona, Vermont, Iowa, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and West Virginia.

The states (ranked 51 to 42) with the worst elder abuse protection are South Carolina, Wyoming, New Jersey, Cali-

fornia, Montana, South Dakota, Arkansas, New Mexico, Kentucky and Idaho.

Some key statistics included: • Alaska has the highest total long-term care Ombudsman program funding (per resident age 65 and older), $10.14, which is 14.9 times higher than in Florida, the state with the lowest at 68 cents per resident.

• The District of Columbia has the most certified volunteer Ombudsmen (per 100,000 residents age 65 and older), 96, whereas Alabama, Montana, Mississippi, South Dakota, West Virginia, and Wyoming have none.

• Arizona, Pennsylvania, and Texas have among the most frequent assisted living facility inspections, once per year, which is five times more frequent than in California, the state with the least frequent at once every five years.

• The District of Columbia has the highest nursing homes quality (share of certified nursing home beds rated four or five stars), 75.7 percent, which is 2.4 times higher than in Louisiana, the state with the lowest at 31.6 percent.

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February 2019

Free dental clinic on March 29, 30

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he Nebraska Mission of Mercy – a free dental clinic – will be held March 29 and 30 from 5:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days at Brownell Talbot School, 400 Happy Hollow Blvd. in Omaha.

Up to 2,000 people who don’t have insurance or who are under-insured will receive free dental care on a first come, first served basis. There’s no need to sign up for an appointment in advance.

Cleanings, root canals, fillings, and prosthetics for kids and adults will be available from the 400 to 500 dental professionals who are expected to volunteer their time those days.

For more information, please go online to nebraskamissionofmercy.com.

Wind Symphony concert set for Sunday, Feb. 10

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he Nebraska Wind Symphony will present a 3 p.m. concert titled Spotlight on Sunday, Feb.10 at the Benson High School auditorium, 5120 Maple St. Special guests on the program will be 20 All-Star middle school trumpet players from public and private schools in the Omaha area.

These young trumpeters will join the Wind Symphony on Gonna Fly Now, the theme from the Rocky movies, and the classic Bugler’s Holiday

by LeRoy Anderson.

Celebrating its 42nd season, the Nebraska Wind Symphony is led by Music Director Larry MacTaggart and Associate Conductor Keith Michael Davis. The group performs four formal concerts and a free summer concert each year. They also provide a free public concert at Omaha’s Holland Center on Thanksgiving as part of the Making Spirits Bright celebration.

Tickets to Spotlight – which are available at the door the day of the concert – are $10 for adults and $5 for students and seniors.

Children under age 12 will be admitted at no charge.

To learn more, visit nebraskawindsymphony.com or the Nebraska Wind Symphony’s Facebook page.

Author: Time spent as wife’s caregiver were the best seven years of my life

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By George Shannon t’s true, the life of a caregiver can be demanding, difficult, and daunting. I spent seven years of my life in that role, keeping an eye on my wife’s every move. Just about every night, Carol and I awoke from our slumber at least five times to make trips to the bathroom. We spent endless nights in hospitals and long days in doctor’s offices.

If given the chance to do it all over again, I would. Those years of being a caregiver constitute the best seven of my life. I learned a ton about myself and my family, became a more fulfilled man, and had the incredible chance to fall in love with my wife all over again.

While I could easily list 20 wonderful things about serving in a caregiving role, here are five very important and unexpected rewards: • A better relationship: When I started being a caregiver, time slowed down.

Because the role can be so demanding, you must focus on the person. In the process, you learn what makes them tick – maybe things you hadn’t noticed before. Putting these nuggets of wisdom to use can make that person so happy, which in turns makes you feel good.

For Carol it was pancakes. When she needed a boost, a single pancake could do the trick. Every once in a while, she’d be down in the dumps. The minute I saw this, we were on the way to our local breakfast joint. Carol’s smile would make my day.

• Precious moments: Similarly, you get to be a part of some very special moments.

Before my wife’s strokes, we’d spend some time together but did our own thing most of the time. After Carol got sick, I spent 90 percent of my time with her and I got to be a part of so many meaningful moments.

Her father had come to live with us for a few years during her illness. He was around 90 at the time. Every night the Pittsburgh Pirates played on TV, they stood, held hands, and sang Take Me Out to the Ballgame. You could just feel the love and joy between them. I’ll never forget those moments.

• Discovering humility: This might be the most hidden of rewards. Before my wife became ill, I was a decent man and generally thoughtful of others, but my world had veered towards self-centeredness. I was set in my ways and had been accustomed to the order in my world.

HorizonAD-2010:HorizonAD-08 2/4/10 8:00 AM At first, out of necessity, I began taking

care of her needs. Soon thereafter, I started feeling good when I did things to help her. Then something tremendous occurred, I began to derive sustained joy when making her life better. By the time she passed away, I’d committed my life to completely serving her and felt total fulfillment. I had become entirely selfless. There may not be a better feeling in the world.

• A deeper relationship: As I gave myself over to her, my wife started to really feel the love.

And in turn, she began to outwardly show her love and appreciation. A day wouldn’t go by when she would tell me that “You’re too good to me,” or “Thanks for all that you do for me.” I never sought these assurances but when she’d offer them, it would light up my day. It was then I realized that we were falling in love all over again.

It was during this rekindled time that we showed our truest selves. From her, I got to see a hidden sense of humor and sharp tongue that often had me belly laughing.

For her, my wife saw a much more tender side and the softer edges of my soul.

• A stronger family: Only one of my siblings and one of our three sons lived in Pittsburgh when my wife got sick. At first, I felt sort of alone in dealing with her health crisis but that didn’t last very long. The son who lived the closest moved in for a year.

My other two kids came in regularly and showered their mother with love. My siblings came in all the time and called when they couldn’t.

I’ve lived my life abiding by the philosophy that what happens to you isn’t as important as how you responded to it. My entire family respond with love, concern, help, and support. Each time, their acts and deeds made Carol and I feel wonderful. I took great pride in seeing my family come together.

Don’t get me wrong, it wasn’t always easy. Yet, at the end of each day of caregiving, I always received a small gift – a sense of fulfillment. And now, when I look back at those seven years, I’m reminded that my life had purpose which is the greatest reward of them all.

(Shannon is the co-author of The Best Seven Years of My Life: The Story of an Unlikely Caregiver. For more information, Page 1 please visit bestsevenyears.com.)

Attorneys at Law William E. Seidler Jr.

Dora Bingel Senior Center You’re invited to visit the Dora Bingel Senior Center, 923 N. 38th St., this month for the following: • Feb. 1, 6, 8, 13, 15, 20, 22, & 27: Ceramics @ 9 a.m.

• Feb. 4, 11, 18, & 25: Al-Anon meeting @ 7 p.m.

• Feb. 6, 13, 20, & 27: Tai Chi • Feb. 6: Holy Communion served @ 10 a.m.

• Feb. 11: Book Club @ 10 a.m.

• Feb. 13: The Merrymakers present music by John Worsham @11:30 a.m. Lunch is $3.

• Feb. 15: Foot care clinic from 9 a.m. to noon for $10.

• Feb. 22: Hard of Hearing Support Group.

• Feb. 27: Birthday party luncheon @ noon. Eat free if you have a February birthday.

Lunch is served on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

A $1 donation is suggested for the meals, other than $3 for 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: Joy Club devotions @ 10 a.m., matinee @ 12:30 p.m., and quilting @1 p.m. Wednesday: Devotions at 10:30 a.m., bingo @ 12:30 p.m., and Bible study @ 12:30 p.m. Friday: Bingo @ 12:30 p.m.

For more information, please call 402-898-5854.

Fontenelle Tours

Omaha/Council Bluffs

712-366-9596

Quoted prices are per person, double occupancy. For more information about our tours, please call Ward or Kathy Kinney at Fontenelle Tours at the number listed above.

Motorcoach

Trip plan for 2019 are in process.

Laughlin (There are currently no Laughlin trips available ,out of Omaha. Check with us for updates on these very reasonably priced charter flights to Laughlin, Nevada. They typically sell out fast.)

In Partnership with Collette Vacations We started working with Collette in 2009 when we were looking for a way to offer international trips to our travelers. We wanted to find a company that shared our core values of providing quality tours, well hosted, and at a reasonable price. We were not looking for a low-cost alternative. Our first personal experience was when we took about 24 people on the “Shades of Ireland” tour.

It was an incredibly positive experience!

Since then we have helped others to experience Collette Tours on: Historic Trains of California; New York City; Canada’s Atlantic Coast with Nova Scotia; Pilgrimage to Fatima & Lourdes; Austrian Delight - Oberammergau (coming up again in 2020); Pasadena Rose Parade; Islands of New England; Canadian Rockies & Glacier National Park; Islands of New England; Reflections of Italy; Canadian Rockies by Train; Tropical Costa Rica; Alaska Discovery Land & Cruise, and others. Please call if you have one of Collette’s many destinations on your bucket list. We can help make it happen!

www.seidler-seidler-law.com

Watch New Horizons and our website www.fontenelletours.com for our trip schedule. 2019 trip plans are in process.

402-397-3801

2708 Franklin Ave. Council Bluffs, IA 51503

10050 Regency Circle, Suite 525 Omaha, NE 68114-5705

Delivering quality legal services since 1957.

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Fee is $99 before March 8

Aging conference at UNO on tap for Tuesday, March 19

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he 2019 Aging with Passion and Purpose Conference is scheduled for Tuesday, March 19 at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. The theme of this year’s 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. event is “No One Left

Behind.”

“Persons with disabilities, mental health issues, and even aging itself, can leave people isolated. This conference is about ensuring people of all backgrounds are engaged and involved in the conversation,” said Julie Masters, Ph.D., chair of the conference planning committee and the department of gerontology at the University of Nebraska at Omaha.

“Persons with disabilities, mental health issues, and even aging itself, can leave people isolated.

This conference is about ensuring people of all backgrounds are engaged and involved in the conversation.”

The keynote speaker will be Israel Doron, Ph.D., head of the Center for Research and the Study of Aging at the University of Haifa in Israel. He’ll address ageism, legal issues with aging, and human rights.

Other presenters include Mary Beth Maxwell, an advocate for the LGBTQ community, Janet Miller, the parent of a daughter who had Down Syndrome and Alzheimer’s disease, Carolina Padilla, executive director for the Intercultural Senior Center, and Dr. Steven Wengel, a geriatric psychiatrist with UNMC. In the spirit of the theme, the conference planning committee is extending its reach into Kearney and online.

“The committee was intentional about broadcasting to alternate sites this year,” said Cheri Mundt, a conference planning committee member and director of business development at Vetter Health Services. “The University of Nebraska at Kearney was open and willing to work with us.”

While all are welcome to attend, the conference is designed for healthcare providers, especially those seeking continuing education.

The registration fee is $99 on or before March 8. After that, it will be $125. The fee includes the conference sessions materials for all sites; parking, lunch, and continuing education for participants at the Omaha and Kearney sites.

For more information, please go online to www.gerontology.unomaha.edu.

Soup recipe to enjoy on a cold day

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ew things go together quite like cold weather and comfort foods. However, those hearty dishes that are typically craved on blustery days are usually not classified as “healthy.”

With the right approach, though, you can put a betterfor-you twist on some of your favorite dishes that can keep you cozy and satiated during the winter season.

For example, you can put a grown-up twist on grilled cheese and tomato soup with this recipe for Creamy Tomato and Roasted Pepper Soup with Cheddar Cracker Melts.

Pairing flavorful seasonal dishes like soups and stews with a wholesome snack cracker like the gluten-free, non-GMO Crunchmaster Tuscan Peasant Crackers can help satisfy those comfort food cravings while also contributing to a healthy lifestyle.

With 20 grams of whole grains per serving, these crunchy, robust baked crackers are also cholesterol-free, allowing you to take a back-to-basics approach to your diet using simple ingredients and no artificial flavors or colors.

For other seasonal recipes, coupons, tips and nutritional information, visit crunchmaster.com.

REHAB, RENEW AND

Return Home

Florence Home Healthcare specializes in rehabilitation to help you recover from an illness or injury so you can safely transition back home.

Call 402-827-6000 for more information!

OMAHASENIORCARE.ORG

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February 2019

Creamy Tomato and Roasted Pepper Soup with Cheddar Cracker Melts Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 25 minutes Servings: 6

Creamy Tomato and Roasted Pepper Soup:

2 1 1 3 1 1/2 1/2 1 4 1 1 2 1/3 2 1

tablespoons olive oil onion, chopped carrot, chopped cloves garlic, chopped teaspoon salt, divided teaspoon pepper teaspoon paprika pinch chili flakes cups organic no-salt-added vegetable broth can (28 ounces) no-salt-added diced tomatoes cup chopped prepared roasted red peppers bay leaves cup 35 percent heavy cream tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives, divided teaspoon cider vinegar

Cheddar Cracker Melts:

24 Crunchmaster Tuscan Peasant Fire Roasted

Tomato Basil Crackers 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese In Dutch oven or large saucepan over medium heat, heat oil.

Cook onion, carrot, garlic, 1/2 teaspoon salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes about five minutes, or until vegetables are slightly softened.

Stir in broth, tomatoes, roasted red peppers, and bay leaves; bring to boil. Reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer 15 to 20 minutes, or until vegetables are tender. Discard bay leaves. Let cool slightly. Transfer to blender; puree in batches until smooth. Stir in cream, remaining salt, one tablespoon chives and vinegar.

To make Cheddar Cracker Melts: Heat broiler to high and position rack in center of oven. Arrange crackers on parchment paperlined baking sheet. Sprinkle with cheese. Broil one to two minutes, or until cheese is melted.

Divide soup among six bowls. Sprinkle with remaining chives and serve with Cheddar Cracker Melts.

Tip: Use mild, medium or aged cheddar cheese. Smoked mozzarella can be substituted, if desired.

Nutrition information per serving: 250 calories; 15 g fat; 7 g saturated fat; 30 mg cholesterol; 730 mg sodium; 22 g carbohydrates; 2 g fiber; 11 g sugar; 6 g protein.

Recent surgery, rehabilitation Find new ways to create your favorites gave columnist time to look at Cookbook offers special the ‘Third Chapter’ of her life

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y birthday was at the end of December and I turned 72. At one time that seemed old to me but now it feels like I’m at the front end of the “Third Chapter” of my life so there’s lots to do, projects to accomplish, and people to know.

However, my sanguine attitude toward this aging process hit a wall when in my own home, I tripped, fell hard, and broke my hip recently. Suddenly age became irrelevant and my dependency became the issue.

Conscious Aging

By Nancy Hemesath

Through weeks of relative helplessness at a rehab center, I was so aware of being the “helped” instead of the helper—my normal role. Acceptance of this role reversal didn’t come easily but I was cognizant that I needed to learn some life lessons which I’d never had to face before. It’s as if I was field testing some of my theories about the benefits of living into our “Third Chapter”. I wondered if my spirit could be resilient even when my body was broken.

Here are some of the things l learned. No matter what, I have control of my attitude toward my situation and my pain. That’s different from being in control of my emotions.

I decided I would appreciate all the healthcare workers from the surgeon who interrupted his Thanksgiving to do my operation, to the nurses, and particularly the nurses’ aides who work so hard with modest pay. My bad luck didn’t have to spill over onto them. I learned that I still had the power to contribute to them as they took care of me with my gratitude, a sense of humor, and interest in their lives.

That’s not to say I was always in a good mood. Certainly not. At times I felt depressed by a situation I could have avoided had I picked up my feet. (Maybe a little anger at myself in there?) Sometimes I’d let the tears flow because I couldn’t stop them. But that seemed like a better solution than lashing out at someone else because I was in pain.

I had the privilege of meeting other people whose physical challenges far exceeded mine but whose attitude was inspiring. One woman with whom I shared meals had a twinkle in her eye most days. We joked and one morning she told me if she laughs at breakfast, she knows she’ll have a good day. Another lovely woman accepted all of her pain with a deep faith. She didn’t look for pity but told me God would never give her more that she could bear.

There’s another lesson I should’ve understood long ago—but only now has it really sunk in. I’ve learned the power of kindness. Because I’ve never suffered a major health issue, I didn’t appreciate the significance of acts of kindness that demonstrated that people cared. Cards, gifts, visits, treats, Starbucks, phone calls, and promises of prayer from unexpected sources as well as my closest family and friends buoyed up my spirit. It made my difficult journey easier.

I was humbled by their care and asked myself where I’ve been when they were suffering. I often speak of the importance of living with purpose in the “Third Chapter”. There’s no greater purpose than expressing love and concern for those who are suffering. As a result of this kindness I resolve to reach out to others who will also need support.

At the rehab center, we often said to each other that aging isn’t for sissies. I fully agree. Nothing about my experience makes me think life into the 70s, 80s, and 90s will be easy. My final lesson is a newfound respect for the challenges faced at this time of life. This will ensure that I’m more sensitive to those I support through the “Third Chapter of Life”.

I do know that I’ll continue pondering these lessons in order to make them part of my lifelong learning and growth. In the meantime, I’m super-conscious of picking up my feet.

(Hemesath is the owner of Encore Coaching which is dedicated to supporting people in the “Third Chapter” of their life. Follow her blog at lifencorecoaching.com. Nancy can be reached at nhemesath@cox.net.)

low-carb recipes that are cauliflower-based

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veryone makes resolutions to lose weight. But despite their best-laid plans, most people fall off the wagon quickly. Here’s why: • They don’t have time to cook delicious, healthy meals.

• They feel deprived. To lose weight and keep it off, they have to avoid their favorite dishes and eat things they don’t enjoy.

• They can’t find healthy meals the whole family will love. When one family member has to cook and eat special “diet” food while everyone else gets to eat what they want, the temptation is too great. Eventually, the dieter gives up and gives in.

The bottom line is restricting yourself to lose weight is unsustainable in the long run. The good news is that you don’t have to starve yourself. Amy Lacey says you can slim down while still eating the foods you and your family love. Her new cookbook cuts out the grains that lead to weight gain, inflammation, and a host of other problems, and replaces them with cauliflower.

“You’d never think that a humble vegetable like the cauliflower could pack so much flavor and versatility, but it really does,” says Lacey, author of Cali’flour Kitchen: 125 CauliflowerBased Recipes for the Carbs You Crave.

“It’s the secret ingredient for creating healthier, lowFr

carb versions of your favorite splurge foods,” she says.

This superfood can be quickly and easily transformed to make grain-free meals that promote health and more.

After being diagnosed with lupus and other autoimmune conditions, Lacey used dietary changes to combat her pain, inflammation, and other symptoms. Upon giving up gluten and processed sugar, her health instantly improved.

But Lacey wasn’t ready to forgo her favorite foods. Instead, she set out to recreate them using cauliflower.

Cali’flour Kitchen provides perfect, guilt-free recipes for every carbheavy craving, whether you’re eating vegan, dairy-free, keto, paleo, or a plant-based diet. For those suffering from health issues like diabetes and autoimmune diseases, this cookbook reintroduces those favorites.

Cauliflower is fast and easy to work with. With crusts, breads, crisps, and cookies, the book’s cauliflower-based recipes are fast and simple to prepare. You can create amazing new favorites in far less time than you think.

Unlike traditional grains, cauliflower is a low-carbohydrate ingredient. One of the healthiest foods you could eat, it’s full of vitamins C, K, and B, and contains plenty of antioxidants, cancer-fighting properties, and fiber.

Finally, its slim calorie count ensures you can eat more without breaking the calorie bank.

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here’s nothing wrong with occasionally getting takeout or going out to dinner, but it’s far healthier and more affordable to cook most of your meals at home. When you cook for yourself, you control the kinds of ingredients you’re working with, and you also know exactly how much salt, fat, and sugar goes into your food.

You don’t have to give up pizza and other foods you crave to lose weight. Cauliflower makes an impressive pizza crust that rivals traditional wheat dough in flavor and texture. Other grain-free favorites include bagels, waffles, sandwiches, and lasagna.

Making cauliflower a staple in your home cooking gives you a healthier way to eat the splurge foods you crave. You can still enjoy your family pizza nights, weekend waffle breakfasts, and indulge in a midafternoon snack without feeling guilty or tipping the scales.

Cali’flour Kitchen: 125 Cauliflower-Based Recipes for the Carbs You Crave is available at bookstores and online book dealers.

Free Annual St. Patrick's Day Food,

Celebration Friday, March 15, 2019

For men and women age 55+ and their guests.

The musical entertainment will be followed by a Pot-O-Gold raffle.

At Keystone’s six-story high-rise 7300 Graceland Drive

OPEN HOUSE TOURS OF KEYSTONE INDEPENDENT LIVING WILL BE AVAILABLE

(near 72nd Street and Military Avenue)

12 p.m.

Lunch

friends, and fun!

1 p.m.

Musical entertainment

by Wayne Miller

“Simply the BEST!”

CALL TODAY!

7300 Graceland Drive Omaha, Nebraska 68134

402-557-6643 (Formerly Skyline Independent Living)

February 2019

•

RSVP

by Wednesday,

keystonevillasliving.com

March 13

New Horizons

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ENOA’s Diner’s Choice is a unique The average age of the American farmer is 58 nutrition program for older adults UNMC examining the importance

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he Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging is excited to provide a unique type of nutrition program in midtown Omaha. Called Diner’s Choice, the program is available for older adults at the Hy-Vee Supermarket, 5150 Center St. Participants can enjoy the meals seven days a week during Hy-Vee’s normal business hours.

Diner’s Choice is designed for older men and women to enjoy a nutritious meal of their choice from an approved and specific menu.

Any items not listed on the approved menu must be paid for by program participants. Meals can be ordered from Hy-Vee’s breakfast

menu, the Chinese and Italian stations, the Hickory House, and the deli station.

The salad bar is not included in these selections.

Diner’s Choice participants – who must be age 60 or older – are asked to contribute $4 per meal when ordering the monthly meals through ENOA. They’ll receive a card for each meal ordered with a 10 meals order limit per month. More than one card may be used on any given day.

Because the meals are paid for when ordered, no money will be collected at Hy-Vee. For more information about Diner’s Choice, please call ENOA’s Nutrition office at 402-444-6513.

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You’re invited to visit the Corrigan Senior Center, 3819 X St., this month for: • Feb. 1: Groundhog Day movie and popcorn.

• Feb. 5: Chinese New Year celebration.

• Feb. 6: Toenail clinic.

• Feb. 13: Opry Classics video Love Songs.

• Feb. 14: Valentine’s Day party.

• Feb. 19: Music by Pam K. sponsored by the Merrymakers.

• Feb. 21: Dinner Dance featuring music by Red Raven.

• Feb. 27: Travel Day featuring Boldt Castle video.

The center will be closed on Feb. 18 for Presidents Day. Other activities include bingo Monday and Thursday @ 1 p.m., ceramics class Wednesdays @ 1 p.m., Happy Hands crochet group Tuesdays @ 10 a.m., Tai Chi Monday and Friday @ 10 a.m., and chair exercises Tuesday and Thursday @ 10 a.m.

The Corrigan Senior Center is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Lunch is served at noon. A $4 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 402-731-7210.

rinkles aren’t the only things that come with an aging body. No one – including farmers – is immune from the cardiovascular changes, weakened bones, slowed reflexes, memory loss, vision and hearing changes, and more.

In the farming industry, staying healthy is a key to avoiding injury or death.

As time takes its toll on a person’s physical condition, paying attention to health and working in a safe manner become even more important.

The average age of America’s farmers today is 58. At that stage of life, even if signs of aging aren’t obvious, physical changes are occurring.

In comparison to their younger counterparts, farmers advancing in age are more likely to experience events like tractor rollovers, contact with livestock, and slips, trips, or falls.

“Falling from the steps of equipment is a very common injury among farmers who are 55 or older,” said Ellen Duysen, outreach specialist for the Central States Center for Agricultural Safety and Health based at the University of Nebraska Medical Center College’s of Public Health.

“Some aspects of aging, which affect every person, include poorer quality sleep, which leads to increased fatigue during the day. Everyone experiences slower response times as they get older. Hearing and vision loss are common, and things like arthritis or a previous injury can restrict mobility.”

When movements become difficult or painful, the risk of injury around farm equipment increases significantly.

Reduced grip strength and decreased ability to tolerate heat and cold also put any aging person at risk, especially farmers.

“For farmers taking care of livestock during calving season in January or February, our aging body doesn’t respond the same way it did when we were young,” Duysen said. “Certain medications can also affect our physical ability. We may see slowed reaction times, drowsiness, or other physiological symptoms.”

Because brain function changes with age, farmers may find they struggle with depression more than they

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February 2019

Millard Senior Center

You’re invited to visit the Millard Senior Center at Montclair, 2304 S. 135th Ave., this month for the following: • Feb. 1: Technology class (i.e. phones, laptops, and I pads) @ 10 a.m. Contact Tamara for more information.

• Feb. 1: Super Bowl party. Wear your favorite team’s colors and bring a treat to share.

• Feb. 5: Movie outing TBA. The cost is $2.

• Feb. 12: Valentine’s party. Wear red and bring a red treat to share.

• Feb. 12: Blood pressure checks @ 9:30 a.m.

• Feb. 13: Board meeting @ 9:45 a.m.

• Feb. 20: P.A.W.S. @ 10 a.m.

• Feb. 22: Crafts with Sheri. Call Tamara @ 402-5461270 for more information.

• Feb. 26: Talk on healthy weight loss @ 10:45 a.m.

The center will be closed on Feb. 18 for Presidents Day. The center is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Lunch is served @ 11:30 a.m. A $4 donation is suggested for the meal. Reservations are due by noon the business day prior to the meal the participant wishes to enjoy.

Other center activities include walking, card games, Tai Chi, dominoes, quilting, needlework, chair volleyball, and bingo.

For reservations or more information, please call 402546-1270.

Corrigan Senior Center

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New Horizons

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did in the early years of their career. Physical reflexes slow while distraction is more likely, and coordination is less efficient.

“One of the most important things a farmer can do to protect their health is ensure their health care provider knows about the work they’re doing on the farm,” Duysen said. “If a farmer is 70 or older, their health care provider may assume they’re no longer active on the farm. Often that’s not the case.”

Well-informed health care providers may be able to manage medications to help avoid drowsiness or other major physical symptoms that could put an active farmer at high risk for injury. A thorough physical examination can also help health care providers identify vision or hearing impairment and recommend or implement treatments to help improve those conditions.

“Balance can often be a problem for the entire aging population, but especially for farmers,” Duysen said.

“Maintaining immunizations such as tetanus is something we may overlook as we age, but it’s very important to staying safe on the farm.”

Duysen emphasized the need for farmers to have a clear and ongoing plan for accessing help in the event of an accident that renders them unable to use a cell phone or walkietalkie.

“I know of a farmer in Missouri who lost his life because he couldn’t reach his cell phone to call for help,” Duysen said. “If there had been a plan for someone to check on him frequently, his life would have been spared. That scenario plays out too often on the farm.”

Working smart is always important, but the physical changes age imposes make it even more critical for aging farmers. Since many farmers experience some kind of back injury or chronic pain by age 50, minimizing twisting and lifting activities reduces the risk of further injury “Make sure you know how to lift safely,” Duysen said.

“Take frequent breaks if you’re doing a lot of lifting and stay hydrated. Dehydration quickly leads to fatigue, which is a leading cause of injury on the farm.”

Bones naturally shrink in size and density over time.

Changes in our bones can also result in greater potential for fractures. At the same time, muscles, tendons, and joints may lose strength and flexibility. Replacing worn or high steps on tractors and equipment can reduce the chance of falls and sprains.

There’s nothing anyone can do to prevent changes to hearing that come with advancing age. But we can prevent further noise-induced hearing damage. Continuing to wear hearing protection – even if you have lost some hearing – is essential. Duysen reminded farmers to “save what you have left.”

Vision changes may include difficulty seeing in low-light conditions, perceiving colors differently, or experiencing dry eyes. Duysen advised purchasing a pair of vented safety goggles to wear in windy or dusty conditions to reduce eye irritation.

The fat layer under our skin diminishes as we age, and we sweat less, making us more susceptible to heat stroke and heat exhaustion. Couple that with the fact aging bodies become less efficient in regulating body temperature, and it’s easy to see why high temperatures are dangerous for aging farmers.

Staying hydrated and maintaining proper electrolyte balances in high temperature situations are critical to avoiding heat-related illness.

Changing sleep patterns are another part of the aging process. Falling asleep and staying asleep may not be as easy.

“If you want quality sleep, keep the TV, your cell phone, and your pets out of the bedroom,” Duysen said. “Those are the top three things that negatively impact everyone’s sleep.”

She said reducing stress, eating a balanced diet, practicing good sleep habits, continuing to actively learn new things, and drinking ample amounts of water are all ways to help reduce aging effects and to be at our best as we work on the farm.

(Nebraska Medicine and UNMC provided this information.)

Alzheimer’s support groups

Computer users group meets at Omaha library

RSVP

The Alzheimer’s Association Nebraska Chapter offers several caregiver support groups and specialty support groups in Cass, Douglas, Washington, Dodge, 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 800-272-3900.

ou’re invited to join the Omaha Computer Users Group, an organization dedicated to helping men and women age 50 and older learn about their computers regardless of their skill level.

OCUG normally meets the third Saturday of each month from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Swanson Branch Library, 9101 W. Dodge Rd. (This month, however, the meeting will be held on Saturday, Feb. 23. ) Participants will have access to a projector connected to a computer with Microsoft Windows 10 to show users how to solve their computer problems.

For more information, call Phill at 402-333-6529.

RSVP is recruiting men and women age 55 and older for a variety of volunteer opportunities. For more information in Douglas, Sarpy, and Cass counties, please call 402-4446536, ext. 1024. In Dodge and Washington counties, please call 402-721-7780.

• The VA Medical Center needs volunteers.

• Partnership 4 Kids is looking for volunteers to mentor Pre-K through high school students.

• Food Bank for the Heartland needs volunteers to help with the SNAP program.

DODGE COUNTY • FREMONT Second Tuesday @ 5:30 p.m.

The Heritage at Shalimar Gardens 749 E. 29th St. DOUGLAS COUNTY • OMAHA Second Thursday @ 10 a.m.

Second Thursday @ 5:30 p.m.

Country House Residences 5030 S. 155th St. Call Christina @ 402-980-4995 for free adult day services.

Every other Monday @ 7 p.m.

Brighton Gardens 9220 Western Ave. First & third Monday @ 1:30 p.m.

New Cassel’s Franciscan Centre 900 N. 90th St. Call Melanie @ 402-393-2113 for free adult day services.

Third Tuesday @ 5 p.m.

Immanuel Fontenelle First floor classroom 6809 N 68th Plz. Second Tuesday @ 6:45 p.m.

For caregivers of individuals with an intellectual disabilty/dementia.

Barbara Weitz Center 6001 Dodge St. (UNO campus)

First Thursday @ 6:45 p.m.

King of Kings Lutheran Church CORE Conference Room 11615 I St. Call Karen @ 402-584-9088 to arrange for adult day services.

Third Tuesday @ 6 p.m.

Temple Israel 13111 Sterling Ridge Dr. SARPY COUNTY • BELLEVUE 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.

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• The Fremont Low-Income Ministry wants volunteers for its food pantry.

• The Blair and Fremont Car-Go Program needs volunteers to drive older adults to their appointments once or twice a week.

• Care Corps Family Services is looking for volunteers Thursdays from 1:30 to 5 p.m.

• Fremont’s Habitat for Humanity wants volunteers for a variety of duties.

• Fremont Health needs volunteers.

• Nye Legacy Health & Rehabilitation is looking for volunteers to help with its bingo games Tuesdays @ 2 p.m.

• Premier Estates of Fremont wants volunteers to assist its activity director.

• PAPILLION Fourth Thursday @ 6 p.m.

Hillcrest Grand Lodge 6021 Grand Lodge Ave. WASHINGTON COUNTY • BLAIR Third Wednesday @ 6 p.m.

Memorial Community Hospital Howard Conference Room 810 N. 22nd St.

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.

February 2019

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Ward helped change neighborhood from Death Valley to Hope Valley

Ward with two Omaha Police Department officers at the 2018 picnic at Fontenelle Park. The 2019 picnic is slated for Aug. 10.

Vanessa received 25,692 votes when she ran for the Nebraska Democratic Party’s gubernatorial nomination in 2018.

By Leo Adam Biga Contributing Writer

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hey call her the “hope hero”.

Vanessa Loftin Ward, age 65, is a positive, energetic spirit by nature. Anyone who’s ever heard her speak – whether stumping for the Nebraska Democratic Party’s gubernatorial nomination in 2018 or leading prayer chains for peace – can attest to her dynamic presence.

“I’ve always been an encouraged heart,” she said. “My grandmother worked for rich people and she taught me to hold your head up and to be proud.”

The historical example of abolitionist-activist Harriet Tubman leading escaped slaves to freedom via the underground railroad made a big impression on Ward.

“I could clearly see the power that Harriet demonstrated by one person caring enough to do something over and over and over again.”

In the late 1980s, Ward despaired at the sorry quandary she and her late husband, Keith Ward, found themselves in. Like their fellow working class neighbors, the couple struggled getting by. Their poor, but once peaceful, northeast Omaha neighborhood had become plagued by unsavory, illegal, and dangerous activities that sprung up there like weeds. A few drug dealers, gang members, pimps, and prostitutes took hold and stubbornly, brazenly held on.

Bereft of trust, respect, and consideration, Ward’s neighbors became strangers to each other.

A pall fell over the neighborhood.

Its upstanding citizens were afraid of being victims in what became known as Death Valley for all the violent fatalities there. Calling the police was discouraged. People didn’t seem to care anymore. They let their properties go and litter fill the street. The sense of safety and community Vanessa and Keith grew up with only a few blocks away was broken. It became a rough place to raise their four children, but limited means left them with few options.

Besides, they lived in their own home and the couple wasn’t about to be run out by some thugs. So, they stayed.

“When my neighborhood was so disconnected because nobody knew each other, that bothered me,” Ward said. “Living in an impoverished area where nobody really connected or cared because it’s ‘the hood’, the slum, (or) the ghetto – that bothered me.

“My children had to play in the backyard. There was no break for them. Why couldn’t they play in the front? But we were worried about

a drive-by (shooting). That’s the way we survived – by hiding. I just couldn’t take it.”

The last straw came after a young man got shot and killed right across the street from where the gang members hung out. He died in front of the Wards’ home.

“Nobody did anything. Nobody called the law. Because if you called, you were a snitch. You didn’t do anything but survive. It was always eating at me because I had a free childhood without all this mess,” Vanessa said.

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ather than hide and remain silent anymore – Ward, an ordained minister who pastored Afresh Anointing Church – proceeded to step out on faith to lift up her neighbors and confront the troublemakers.

The healing ministry she did on her own block eventually restored a sense of community and hope among residents. It all began with Ward picking up trash and greeting --Please turn to page 12.

Saturday, February 16  7:30 pm  Holland Center With Aretha Franklin, Carole King, Janis Joplin, Tina Turner, and Pat Benatar all in one place, you’ll be “Dancing in the Street” with hits like “What’s Love Got to Do With It,” “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll,” “You Make Me Feel Like a Natural Woman,” and ”Hit Me with Your Best Shot.”

Ernest Richardson, conductor Cassidy Catanzaro, vocals | Celisse Henderson, vocals | Shayna Steele, vocals Symphony Rocks Series Sponsor

Page 10

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New Horizons

STARTING AT $19 - ORDER TODAY!

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February 2019

402.345.0606 | OMAHASYMPHONY.ORG

ENCAP offers a variety of services including monthly food packages

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he Eastern Nebraska Community Action Partnership (ENCAP) is dedicated to ensuring that income-eligible older adults have access to a Senior Food Package once per month through its Food and Nutrition Center.

Food packages include a rotating menu of non-perishable food items like cereal, fruit, vegetables, juice, milk, pasta, protein (chicken, salmon, stew, or tuna), and a two-pound block of cheese.

“In addition to the non-perishable items, ENCAP partners with local organizations and utilizes its community garden whenever possible to incorporate fresh items as well,” said ENCAP’s Nutrition Coordinator Megan LobergSimmering. “Signing up for services is easy, and we are happy to help you navigate through the process.”

If you’re an older adult who is interested in receiving ENCAP services, please call 402-453-5656. You can also stop by 2406 Fowler Ave. during distribution hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. the first three weeks of every month. The nutrition center is closed the last week of each month for inventory.

When signing up for ENCAP services, please bring a picture ID, a piece of mail received within the last 30 days (to verify your address), and proof of income (SSI or SSDI statement) or a bank statement showing a deposit.

ENCAP is looking for services centers, senior housing locations, churches, and similar locations that are interested in becoming a distribution site. Please call 402-453-5656 for more information.

ENCAP is a private, non-nonprofit organization that has been serving those living in poverty in Douglas and Sarpy Counties since 1965. Last year it served nearly 5,000 individuals through its Behavioral Health, Food and Nutrition, Family Development, Transportation, and Senior Support service areas.

Its website address is www.encapnebraska.org.

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www.RegencyHomesOmaha.com * This is Universal Design; not ADA Standards.

Please support New Horizons advertisers.

Thank You!

The men and women of the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging wish to thank the following businesses, churches, organizations, and individuals that purchased gifts for approximately 500 ENOA clients during the 2018 Christmas season.

The list also includes businesses, churches, organizations, and individuals that donated money, dinners, pajamas, scarves, hats, gloves, toiletries, paper products, postage stamps, Christmas stockings, and art pieces for the men and women the agency serves.

Angie Kelso

HRS of Nebraska Home Health Care

Omaha Fire Department

Anonymous

Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints/ Ralston-LaVista Ward

Omaha Senior Resource Group

Arthur J. Gallagher Insurance Barb Parolek BLUEBARN Theater Cindy Jones Cindy Kirstine CORE Bank Covenant Presbyterian Church Dawn Varner Ernie Parra Gethsemane Lutheran Church Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Home Instead Senior Care Omaha Home Instead Senior Care Fremont

Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church

Jeff and Becca Frans

Outdoors Unlimited

Karen Paschal

Paula Stanton

Kathy Kirstine

Presbyterian Church of the Cross

King of Kings Church

Rebecca Frans/Methodist Health System

Kris & Gene Rhodman

St. Gerald’s Catholic Church

Linda Ivory

St. Patrick’s Catholic Church (Fremont)

Lorey Kirstine

St. Philip Neri’s Catholic Church

Mary Ann Besse

Sandy Blackman

Notre Dame Alumni Club of Omaha

Scheels

Omaha Artists, Inc.

ENOA would also like to thank the 75 SeniorHelp Program volunteers who helped deliver Christmas gifts to ENOA clients this year in 39 zip codes.

February 2019

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Page 11

Before altering her community, Vanessa transformed herself --Continued from page 10. her neighbors. Then, drawing on an event her mother organized back in the day, she planned the first of what became an annual block party there.

Ward reached out to gang members to get their assurance there’d be no trouble. The party went on without incident and proved a rallying point for the neighborhood, drawing hundreds for fellowship and fun. Over time, the area underwent a profound change. Gardens were planted and homes renovated.

Vanessa led outdoor church services. The bad element moved out and criminal behaviors ceased. Death Valley became Hope Valley.

The block party celebrated 20 years in 2017. It grew so big that last year it moved off the block to nearby Fontenelle Park, where 1,500 people gathered.

The neighborhood’s transformation has earned Ward much recognition. It became the inspiration for her book, Somebody Do Something.

None of it would have happened though, she insists, if she hadn’t changed her own heart first.

“I hated the gang members, I hated my neighborhood, I hated my quality of life. If I had stepped out (because) of hate I would never have endured. It took love, forgiveness, (and) empathy to be able to step out and make significant changes. To go over to the gang members and ask that there not to be any trouble during this event took love – and they knew it.

“You can’t accomplish anything without truth,” she said. “Truth builds trust, and you’re nowhere

without it.”

Placing fault or pointing fingers wasn’t the answer. “You can’t choose sides,” she said. “You have to find a better way.” It wasn’t about expecting someone else to come to the rescue either. “No one can come into your community and produce effective change. You have to accomplish that from within.”

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mpowering others to become change agents became Ward’s life work.

“I feel like in every negative situation, be it relational, community, citywide, (or) worldwide, people need to understand they have the potential of making a difference.

I think you need people to inspire you, to step out or step up in whatever your situation is to make positive change.

“Now your situation may not be as dire as mine with a young man dying right in front of your home, and you’re already totally dissatisfied with the condition of your condition. It may not have to be that much to push you, but it does require asking ‘What can I do.’ It may be as small as greeting, smiling, waving, (or) engaging.

Always more is required. But if you’re keeping your head down, not making eye contact, avoiding your neighbor. That’s how this negative element around us grows,” Vanessa said.

She said don’t look for scapegoats.

“Everybody wants to blame the government. The government can’t see what’s going on on your block or in your family. That’s not the

This drawing of Keith Ward titled, My Father, was done by Vanessa and Keith’s son, Torrey G. Ward. government’s responsibility. You can’t be blaming other people.

“For me the block party was basically an example of what YOU can do where you are.”

Ward’s mission is to raise up others by encouraging them to be the change they want.

“What I’m doing is giving wisdom keys to people to inspire them to keep hope alive,” she said.

Vanessa said she feels older men and women like herself have much to offer. She likes repeating what her fellow residents at Salem Village say about being older adults: “Retired, but not expired.”

Ward feels she and other older adults can show the way for how things are done.

“Without direction, people go astray. If somebody’s not there like grandpa and grandma, and we don’t keep the direction and say, ‘This is the way you do it,’ we go astray.

“We need to pull on that wisdom because we need direction. This young generation is screaming for it. It’s a silent scream of ‘somebody tell me what to do, how to do it, (and) encourage me to do it.’”

living in the cluster of moving no farther south than Cuming Street, no farther north than Ames Avenue, no farther east than 16th Street, and no farther west than 30th Street. No matter what your educational status, your profession, your financial stability – as long as you looked like me, that’s where you lived.”

Segregation had its benefits, however, including a tight-knit, selfsustaining black community.

“My fondest memories came from community,” Ward said. “We looked out for each other. It was like there was no divisiveness, no competition. There was Miss (Bertha) Calloway right next door.

Johnny Rodgers right up the street.

Officer Mahoney down the alley.

Brenda Council, Thomas Warren, and all the rest of them around the corner. Luigi Waites (and) Camille Steed.”

A cohesive village raised Vanessa and her peers.

“My community had guidelines.

You didn’t ever talk back to your elders. That was a no-no. You had to be in the house-yard by the time the street lights came on. Men in my community took an active his woman that stepped forth role model presence. Mr. Winburn boldly to reclaim her comwould take all the neighborhood munity went through her own youth on ‘The Hay Ride’ – a ride transformation only a few years in the back of his truck to Hummel before. Without this “conversion,” Park or out in the country to get us she said she wouldn’t have been out of ‘the hood’. Mr. Waites led the able to take the actions she did. To Contemporary Drill Team. understand that transition one has “My community understood to return to Ward’s childhood and living and working together. We young adulthood and the doldrums watched out for one another. Everyshe found herself in at age 38 before one knew one another. Most adults being born again. were homeowners.”

One constant in her life is comWard’s family was active at munity.

Hope Lutheran Church. She and “I love community. Community her siblings attended its Christian for me was the Near Northside.” school. Two-parent households were She grew up near 25th and Evans the norm, not the exception. Vanstreets when segregation was still essa grew up with her two parents the de facto force of law. until age 10, when her folks di- “This was north Omaha in the late vorced. She adored her father, who ’50s, early ’60s when the civil rights operated the first black barber shop --Please turn to page 13. movement was at its peak. We were

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Ward on the campaign trail during her 2018 gubernatorial race.

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March 2019

Ward has been honored by Mayor Stothert, President Obama --Continued from page 12. in south Omaha.

“My fondest memories were with my biological father.”

Her mother was an entrepreneur, too, making and selling homemade candied apples and popcorn balls from the family’s home.

Suddenly living in a broken home was difficult for Ward. Her mother remarried but things weren’t the same with the stepfather, and that marriage didn’t last.

Ward went through a period of rebellion in her late teens before checking herself and finding a positive outlet in cheerleading at Omaha Technical High School. When her mother and stepfather moved to New York, she went there to complete school and to see the Big Apple, but she found it too big, fast, and unfriendly, and gladly returned to her hometown.

When desegregation came, the sense of community and stability she knew eroded. Where before, professionals and laborers were all mixed together, blacks began dispersing by income or class. Busing to integrated schools found black students sometimes separated from friends.

“When we started dispersing, you definitely could not live in neighborhoods you couldn’t afford. That became a big divider. You started to lose that sense of oneness.”

The loss of good paying packinghouse and railroad jobs caused many blacks to leave Omaha to pursue better opportunities elsewhere.

The riots of the late 1960s destroyed several businesses in the North 24th Street hub. Many vacant lots and abandoned storefronts have remained empty for decades.

“Twenty-fourth Street was burning right outside my neighborhood,” Ward recalled. “There was burning and pillaging of stores of friends you met in the community. Everything was being destroyed. My whole life was up in flames during that time.”

Construction of the North Freeway forced many residents to move and imposed a barrier that severed neighbors and neighborhoods from each other.

The community that was once so “alive and vibrant” became a shell of its former self.

“It was rough,” Ward said. “I think if we didn’t have each other, it could have been a whole bunch worse.”

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s if the deteriorating community around her wasn’t challenging enough, Ward’s husband Keith was diagnosed with Type I Diabetes and eventually lost his legs. This jack of all trades who drove a bus and was employed as a custodian, groundskeeper, and security guard, could no longer work and the family lost their home.

An angel came to their rescue.

“A landlord who had a vacant home let us come stay there free for six months because he admired what I was doing in the neighborhood.

You can’t do the block work if you’re not on the block.”

She told a biographer, “I had to keep my work going – it was too important. I had to keep Keith going. He was literally dying in my arms and he was afraid for my life. Can you imagine – he was worried about me?”

These high school sweethearts married three times.

“The first time we got married in front of the justice of the peace. The second time we had an official church wedding where all our children were in it. The third time we got married in the community garden so the neighbors and everybody could come share.”

Keith’s remains are buried in the Hope Garden.

Taking care of Keith’s mother who was dying of cervical cancer, played a major role in Van-

“I had been doing a lot of soul-searching prior to the delegation approaching me and asking me to run. I felt called to share my life experiences as well as the wisdom I’ve gained over the years.

It was about stepping out – and that’s the same thing I’ve represented all my life. Step out and do something you believe. No matter how hard the obstacles may seem, just go ahead and do what you know to do.”

It’s a message Vanessa shares with audiences large and small and with cadets in her Hope Hero Academy. The Academy promotes “identity, destiny, and victory” in its youth cadets.

Ward will share that message again during the Hope Hero Conference on March 23 at Tri-Community Church, 6001 Fontenelle Blvd.

She’ll deliver the keynote address at this free, family-friendly event which runs from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

“I’m getting heroes together that will inspire our community to make positive change where they are. A hero is just an ordinary person that overcomes outstanding obstacles.”

Vanessa will deliver the keynote address at Whenever Ward has an audience, whether it’s the Hope Hero Conference on Saturday, one person or a crowd, she aims to teach.

March 23 at Tri-Community Church, Her daughter, Va’Chona Graves, has benefitted 6001 Fontenelle Blvd. from her mother’s wisdom.

“I’ve learned that one person can make a difessa’s life. ference,” Graves said. “If you are that difference, “Mom would sing songs like Amazing Grace. if you are that change, it can spread. It really She had Christian TV on, and she was always talking to the Lord. It started doing something in- starts with one person and she’s living proof of that. I’ve seen that change and I really want to side of me. I could feel my spirit trying to come apply that more in my life.” awake. I revisited that place of love I knew as a Graves credits Vanessa for making her a better child.” mother to her own sons. More than anything, this The spirit moved Ward to another place. proud daughter wants people to know her mother “One day I broke down crying at the dining room table talking to my mother-in-law about her is genuine.

“I get to see her behind closed doors, and I son. She got out of her seat, put her hands on my shoulders, and began to pray in a tongue. All of a can honestly say she is really real about what she does. It’s not a show, it’s not just for the pulpit or sudden, I had an out-of-body experience. I travthe camera. She lives it on and off the screen.” eled back, and I knew it was the Lord with me.”

Right there Ward declared, “I need to know olitics operates by its own rules and Ward this Jesus.” She began studying the Bible under found the team organized around her for her mother-in-law’s tutelage. The New Testathe 2018 Nebraska gubernatorial race had ment’s theology of love, compassion, and peace little faith in her ability to raise money, much less set the framework for a reborn life that saw her win votes. Some of these people sabotaged or become Apostle Vanessa Ward. abandoned Vanessa when the going got tough.

“My conversion activated what was already “Did you think I was going to be a puppet? in me, but it also caused me to have the courage and the love to take the steps. You have to be out Why would you approach me to run for the most here for a greater reason than yourself in order to important position in the state if you didn’t think I would need to know?” Ward asked. make significant change.”

“I went from here all the way to Scottsbluff. I She undertook a personal housecleaning. took my kids and the grandbabies with me. I was “Once I was able to look at myself, I decided the premise has to be love. God is love. Anything not just trying to get votes, I was trying to create memories, so I took the whole family by van.

I’m doing I’m moving in love.”

We were received with love all across NebrasTo thine own self be true, she preaches. ka.”

“Until you as an individual find your identity, If there was an overriding takeaway from the your purpose, your destiny, you’re just aimless. journey, she said, “I saw how important it is that I don’t care what color you are, where you live, how much money you have, you’re just aimless.” you speak the truth.”

By the end, the only person left on the camThat lesson got reinforced during Ward’s 2018 paign team was her daughter, Va’Chona. Ward campaign for Nebraska governor. received 25,692 votes.

“When I started my campaign, the frustrating The impressive, second place showing in last part was people telling me I had no business runMay’s primary to the well-monied campaign of ning because I didn’t have the money. Where I Nebraska legislator Bob Krist – who received come from not having money is merely a hurdle or an obstacle you have to clear in order to finish more than 50,000 votes – wasn’t expected by anyone inside or outside the state Democratic the race.”

Ward’s commitment to serving others is clearly Party.

Her simple message seemed to resonate with engrained, and it’s brought her notoriety. She Nebraskans. received the key to the City of Omaha from “We need to have integrity, come together, Mayor Jean Stothert and the “Gold Volunteer of The Year” award from President Barack Obama. stand united, and be willing to listen. That commonality I really believe is what brought my A four-block stretch of Omaha’s North 38th votes in,” Ward said. “The rural areas were the Street now bears her name. strongest.”

By the time Vanessa announced her surprise She chalks up the campaign as a positive expecandidacy for governor, she was already a public rience. figure in some quarters. But few gave this black “No regrets at all. I feel it was both rewarding woman a chance to win.

She had in fact been approached by Democrat- and refreshing for myself and for Nebraska.” ic Party operatives to put her name in the ring.

--Please turn to page 20.

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February 2019

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Respite care

Ralston Senior Center You’re invited to visit the Ralston Senior, 7301 Q St., this month for the following: • Feb. 2: Groundhog Day. • Feb. 4 & 18: Korean Community Activity from noon to 2:30 p.m.

• Feb. 12: Bus trip to WinnaVegas Casino in Sloan, Iowa. The bus leaves @ 7:30 a.m. and returns around 4 p.m. The cost is $5. Call Dorothy @ 402-553-4874 for reservations.

• Feb. 13: Board meeting @ 10 a.m.

• Feb. 13: The Merrymakers present music by vocalist Joyce Torchia @ noon.

• Feb. 14: Valentine’s Day. • Feb. 18: Presidents Day. Other activities include exercise on Tuesday and Friday @ 10 a.m.

Lunch is catered in on Wednesdays. A $4.50 contribution is requested. Reservations are due by noon the Tuesday before the meal you wish to enjoy. Call Diane @ 402-8858895 for reservations.

The handicapped-accessible facility can be used for weddings, memorial services, reunions, etc. on weekends.

The center will be closed on any day the Ralston Public Schools are closed due to the weather.

For more information, please call Diane West @ 402339-4926.

Musical production set for Feb. 9

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aron Shoemaker & Meghan Small will sing classical love songs like Can’t Help Falling in Love, Luck Be a Lady, and I’ve Got You Under My Skin as Aaron Shoemaker Produc-

tions presents A Love Story on Saturday, Feb. 9 at The Pella at Blackstone, 303 S. 41st St. For tickets and more information, please call 402782-5521 or go online to www.lovestoryomaha.com.

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ife can bring on stress for many of us. Finding ways to relieve stress are important to our overall health and well-being. Caregivers are not immune to this stress.

Please contact Respite Across the Lifespan at edbennett@unmc.edu or 402-559-5732 to find out more about respite services and to locate resources in your area.

NARFE The National Active and Retired Federal Employees’ Chapter 144 meets the first Wednesday of each month at 11:30 a.m. at the Amazing Pizza Machine, 13955 S Plz. For more information, please call 402-292-1156.

The National Active and 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 402-3424351.

Dahlias are beautiful, easy to grow

By Melinda Myers

D

ahlias have been a fixture in summer flower gardens for generations. But it may be time to update your idea of dahlias. With hundreds of varieties to choose from in a fabulous array of colors, shapes, and flower sizes, dahlias are a must for your 2019 garden.

Not only are dahlias beautiful, they’re also easy to grow.

Just plant the tuberous roots in a sunny, well-drained location once the soil has warmed to about 60 degrees – or around the same time as you plant tomatoes. It takes a week or two for the first shoots to emerge, but the plants grow quickly and will be blooming by midsummer.

Grow dahlias in containers to brighten your balcony, deck, or front steps. They combine nicely with other plants in containers as well as in the garden. Mix them with bold, leafy elephant ears, Lacinato kale, and Swiss chard; finely textured ornamental grasses and gaura; upright salvias and gladiolus; and trailing plants like calibrachoa, verbena, and ivy.

Dahlias will add pizzazz to your gardens and landscape, especially in the second half of the summer when many other flowers are starting to wane.

Dinnerplate dahlias are bodacious beauties that command your attention. They include any variety of dahlia with flowers that are at least eight inches in diameter. These extra-large blossoms are produced on bushy plants that grow three to six feet tall. Favorites include Café au Lait, Vancouver, and Thomas Edison.

Use stakes to help support the flowers and keep the plants standing upright.

Decorative dahlias offer the widest array of colors and styles. Their petals are flat to slightly rolled and flower sizes vary from four to eight inches.

Growing an assortment of several different varieties, like the Spice Mix Decorative Dahlia Collection (longfield-gardens.com), lets you enjoy a color-coordinated blend of hues that combine well in both the garden and in a vase.

For dahlias with a completely different look, grow cactus and semi-cactus types. Their rolled or partially rolled petals give the flowers a spikey texture. Varieties such as Yellow Star and burgundy-maroon Nuit d’Ete will add style and sophistication to your garden.

Make sure your flower garden also includes a few ball and pompon dahlias. These perfectly round swirls of tightly rolled petals come in vivid colors, and their long vase life make them a favorite with floral designers. Use copperyorange Mirella or vivid Boom Boom Red to weave shots of color throughout an arrangement.

For contrast, incorporate some single, peony-flowered, anemone, and collarette types. Dahlias such as HS Date, Bishop of Dover, and Fascination have fewer petals and slightly smaller blooms, which makes them good companions for annuals as well as perennials. Plus, their daisy-like centers are magnets for bees and butterflies.

Bring your dahlias up close with dwarf varieties, commonly known as border dahlias. These plants grow just 12 to 24 inches tall, yet most have big, four to five-inch blooms. Popular varieties include Gallery Pablo, Melody Swing, and Gallery Art Nouveau. They’re ideal for small spaces or lining a walkway and are a perfect addition to containers.

With so many colors and flowers styles to choose from, growing dahlias can become a life-long adventure. Make room in your garden for some of these easy-to-grow, easyto-love, summer-flowering bulbs. You’ll discover why so many gardeners have fallen under their spell.

(Myers has written more than 20 gardening books.)

Charles E. Dorwart Govier, Katskee, Suing, & Maxell, PC, LLO 37 years of legal experience • Wills • Living Trusts • Probate • Healthcare and Financial Powers of Attorney • Medicaid Planning • In-home consultations • Free Initial consultation 10404 Essex Court • Suite 100 Omaha, NE 68114 Office: (402) 558-1404 or (402) 391-1697 chuck@katskee.com

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February 2019

Tips to help keep your home warm

By Emily Folk

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o warm you through the winter season, you depend on your home’s heating system. And while it’s there for that precise reason, an over-reliance might raise your monthly utility bill and leave you feeling cold toward your provider. More than that, the excess expenditure is detrimental to the environment.

There’s no reason to fret the freeze, however, and we’ve compiled some hot tips. Consider the suggestions below and determine which of them are ideal for your living space. Regardless of circumstances, you have options for reducing your costs and carbon footprint.

• Clear the area around your radiator: Take full advantage of the heat from your radiator, clearing the area around it of any furniture that could compromise its effectiveness. A hefty item positioned in front of a radiator will absorb its warmth, leaving less for your living space. In a cooler room with a blocked radiator, you’ll have to adjust the thermostat to compensate.

This change is straightforward and shouldn’t require too much time. Simply locate the radiators in your house or apartment and make some slight rearrangements to the furniture in those rooms. It costs you no money at all, and you’ll likely notice an immediate difference in the temperature.

• Install thermal curtains to trap heat: A thick pair of curtains, thermal or otherwise, will trap heat within your home.

They’ll sustain the temperature of your space and keep it nice and cozy. On a sunny day when clouds and inclement weather don’t threaten your comfort, you can open your curtains to let the sunshine in and enjoy the natural light.

Choose from a selection of different window coverings to improve your energy efficiency. Tightly installed cellular shades can reduce heat loss through your windows by 40 percent or more. These same shades serve the opposite purpose in spring and summer, protecting against solar heat.

• Find and seal cracks to fix drafts: Even small, virtually unnoticeable cracks have the potential to steal heat from your home and let in cold air. Attending to these

flaws is a simple process, however, and anyone with an amateur understanding of “do it yourself” can make the fixes. All you need to manage a draft is caulk and weather-stripping.

With a stick of lit incense or a candle, survey your space, making a note of any place that draws the smoke or flame.

Many leaks occur around entranceways and windows, so take care to inspect these areas closely. When you find a draft, use the caulk and weather-stripping to seal it tight.

• Use a programmable thermostat: Your thermostat is the control center of your heating system, and an investment in new technology will ultimately reduce your energy expenditure. With a programmable model, you can keep the temperature low while you’re at work or asleep and let it warm you when you’re present to enjoy the benefits.

Through careful management of your heating system, you’ll maximize your efficiency and see a significant cut in costs.

With a set-and-forget thermostat, you’ll no longer have to make adjustments before you leave your home and after you return.

• Wash clothes at a low temperature: Most common laundry detergents are effective at lower temperatures, and for many articles of clothing, hot water isn’t necessary for a thorough wash. Consider changing the settings on your washing machine before you clean your next load to conserve energy. You’ll find no difference in the results.

Before you move your wet clothes to the dryer, wring them free of any excess water.

This extra measure will lessen the time it takes for your load to dry. With the inexpensive addition of a few dryer balls, you can further accelerate the process, reducing drying time by up to 25 percent.

• Saving the planet on a budget: You don’t have to compromise your comfort for the health of the planet or your wallet.

Through the five techniques listed above, you’ll save on your energy expenditure and monthly utility bill, preserving the warmth in your home while managing your carbon footprint. A small change makes a big difference — and sustainability starts in the home.

Please see the ad on page 3

New Horizons Club membership roll grows $25 Ruth Rehwinkle $10 Paul Goetz Jackie Farber $5 William Hause Mary Ann Dyer Gerry Chase Kathy Klitzke List reflects donations received through 1/25/19.

Omaha Fire Department The Omaha Fire Department’s Public Education and Affairs Department will 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 1516 Jackson St. Omaha, Neb. 68102 For more information, please call 402-444-3560.

February 2019

Volunteers Assisting Seniors

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olunteers Assisting Seniors (VAS) is committed to helping older adults make good life decisions. Through a network of trained and certified volunteers, VAS provides Medicare counseling and Homestead Exemption filing assistance.

VAS is offering a Basic Estate Planning class developed and presented by volunteer attorneys on April 25. The workshop provides an opportunity to learn in a classroom environment using simple language. The goal is to develop a better understanding of estate

planning, so you’ll have an easier time making the important personal decisions necessary to design plans that meet your needs.

The workshop will cover financial and medical powers of attorney, living wills, wills, living or revocable trusts, alternatives and supplements to wills, taxes related to death, and mistakes to avoid.

The free class is scheduled for Thursday, April 25 from 1:30 to 3 p.m. at the VAS office, 1941 S. 42nd St. (Center Mall), Suite 312.

To reserve a spot, please call VAS at 402-444-6617.

Notre Dame Housing/ Seven Oaks Senior Center You’re invited to visit the Notre Dame Housing/Seven Oaks Senior Center, 3439 State St. for the following: • Second, third, and fourth Friday: Community food pantry @ 11 a.m.

• Third Wednesday: Food pantry from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• Feb. 4: Presentation on Black History @ 1:30 p.m.

• Feb. 5: Fair Housing Center counselor @ 10 a.m.

• Feb. 12: Medicare/Medicare presentation @ 10 a.m.

• Feb. 12: Fitness at Any Age presentation @ 1:30 p.m.

• Feb. 13: Fontenelle Forest presentation on Beaver Tales @ 1 p.m.

• Feb. 15: Trip to Black Plains History Museum @ 1:30 p.m.

• Feb. 19: Senior Fraud Awareness presentation by the Better Business Bureau @ 1:30 p.m.

• Feb. 20: Health clinic @ 10 a.m.

• Feb. 21: Presentation by Douglas County’s Coordinator for Disproportionate Minority Contact and Compliance A’Jamal Byndon @ 7 p.m.

• Feb. 21: February birthday party with music by Billy Troy sponsored by the Merrymakers @ 1:30 p.m.

• Feb. 26: Valentine’s Day party with the Girls Scouts @ 4:30 p.m.

The center will be closed on Feb. 18 for Presidents Day. Notre Dame Housing/Seven Oaks Senior Center is open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Lunch is served at noon. A $4 contribution is suggested for the meal. Reservations are due by 11 a.m. the business day prior to the lunch you wish to enjoy.

For more information, call 402-451-4477, ext. 126.

WHITMORE LAW OFFICE Wills • Trusts • Probate

Ask A Lawyer: Q — In addition to avoiding probate, what are some benefits of a trust?

A — Gifts to minors can be held in the trust with no need for court supervision until they are ready to inherit. A trust provides you with more privacy than a will and is difficult to challenge. A trust can prevent unintentionally disinheriting a child, which can happen in a blended family even where there is a will. You can make provision for beneficiaries with special needs or provide for professional management of your trust if you become disabled. The benefits of a trust are for everyone, not just for “rich people.”

Have a question about estate planning? Give us a call!

AARP Legal Service Network • No Charge For Initial Consultation

7602 Pacific Street, Ste 200 • (402) 391-2400 http://whitmorelaw.com

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New Horizons

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Page 15

Pick up your free copy of New Horizons each month The New Horizons is available at locations throughout eastern Nebraska.

Stop by and pick up a free copy each month at one of the following: Adams Park Senior Center 3230 John Creighton Blvd.

ENCAP 2406 Fowler Ave.

Livingston Plaza Apts.

303 S. 132nd St.

Rorick Apts.

604 S. 22nd St.

Aksarben Manor 7410 Mercy Rd.

Evans Tower 3600 N. 24th St.

Lutheran Home 530 S. 26th St.

The Ambassador 1540 N. 72nd St.

Florence Home 7915 N. 30th St.

Mangelsen’s 84th & Grover streets

Royal Oaks/ House of Hope 4801 N. 52nd St.

American Red Cross 3838 Dewey St.

Florence Senior Center 2920 Bondesson St.

Maple Crest Condos 2820 N. 66th Ave.

Arlington (Neb.) Senior Center 305 N. 3rd St.

Fremont (Neb.) Friendship Center 1730 W. 16th St.

Mercy Care Center 1870 S. 75th St.

Bank of Nebraska 7223 S. 84th St. Bellewood Court Apts.

1700 Lincoln Rd. Bellevue Bellevue Library 1003 Lincoln Rd. Bellevue Senior Center 109 W. 22nd Ave.

Friendship Program 7315 Maple St. Gold Coast Square 1213 Gold Coast Rd. Papillion Hallmark Care Center 5505 Grover St.

Bennington (Neb.) Senior Center 322 N. Molley St.

Heartland Family Service Senior Center 4318 Fort St.

Benson Tower 5900 NW Radial Hwy.

Hickory Villa 7315 Hickory St.

Bickford Cottage 11309 Blondo St.

Hillcrest Care Center 1702 Hillcrest Rd. Bellevue

Dora Bingel Senior Center 923 N. 38th St. Blumkin Home 333 S. 132nd St. Camelot 6 Apartments 9415 Cady Ave. Camelot Friendship Center 9270 Cady Ave.

Hooper (Neb.) Senior Center 208 N. Main St. Immanuel Courtyard 6757 Newport Ave. Immanuel Medical Center 6901 N. 72nd St.

Millard Manor 12825 Deauville Dr. Millard Montclair Senior Center 2304 S. 135th Ave. Mission Vue Apartments 406 E. Mission Ave. Bellevue Monarch Villa 201 E. Cedardale Dr. Papillion Montclair Nursing Home 2525 S. 135th St.

North Bend (Neb.) Senior Center Oak Grove Manor 4809 Redman Ave. Oak Valley Apts.

12425 Krug Ave.

Intercultural Community Senior Center 3010 R St.

OJ’s Mexican Restaurant 9201 N. 30th St.

Crown Pointe Retirement Center 2820 S. 80th St. Crown Tower 5904 Henninger Dr. deFreese Manor 2669 Dodge St. Dodge (Neb.) Senior Center 226 N. Elm St. Douglas County Housing 5449 N. 107th Plz. Durham Booth Manor 3612 Cuming St.

Kohll’s Pharmacy 50th & Dodge streets Kohll’s Pharmacy 2923 Leavenworth St. Kohll’s Pharmacy 12739 Q St. Kohll’s Pharmacy 617 N. 114th St. Kohll’s Pharmacy 1413 S. Washington St. Papillion Kubat Pharmacy 4924 Center St.

St. Vincent DePaul 5920 Maple St. Sarpy County Courthouse 1261 Golden Gate Dr.

Snyder (Neb.) Senior Center 2nd & Elm streets

Christie Heights Senior Center 3623 P St.

Croatian Cultural Society 8711 S. 36th St.

St. Margaret Mary’s Church 6116 Dodge St.

Nehawka (Neb.) Senior Center

OEA Manor 320 N. 22nd St.

Kay Jay Tower 25th & K streets

St. Mary’s Church 811 S. 23rd St. Bellevue

Skyline Manor 7300 Graceland Dr.

Immanuel Village 6803 N. 68th Plz.

Corrigan Senior Center 3819 X St.

St. Joseph Villa 2305 S. 10th St.

New Cassel 900 N. 90th St.

Central Park Tower 1511 Farnam St.

W. Dale Clark Library 215 S. 15th St.

St. Joseph Tower 2205 S. 10th St.

Seven Oaks at Notre Dame 3439 State St.

Carter Lake Senior Center 626 Locust St.

Jackson Tower 600 S. 27th St.

St. Bridget Church 4112 S. 26th St.

Nebraska Urban Indian Health Coalition 2240 Landon Ct.

Immanuel Trinity Village 522 N. Lincoln St. Papillion

Chubb Foods 2905 N. 16th St.

St. Bernard Church 3601 N 65th St.

OEA Apts.

122 S. 39th St.

Omaha Nursing Home 4835 S. 49th St. The Orchards at Wildwood 7454 Gertrude St. Papillion Senior Center 1001 Limerick Ave. Park East Tower 539 S. 26th Ave. Park Tower North 1501 Park Ave. Petrow’s Restaurant 5914 Center St. Phil’s Foodway 3030 Ames Ave.

Social Security Office 7100 W. Center Rd. Suite 200 Social Settlement 4868 Q St. South Omaha Eagles 6607 Sunshine Dr. Southview Heights 49th & Q streets Swanson Library 9101 W. Dodge Rd. Joe Tess Restaurant 5424 S. 24th St. Thrift Store 7328 Maple St. Trinity Cathedral 18th Street & Capitol Avenue Twin Tower Apts.

3000 Farnam St. Underwood Tower 4850 Underwood Ave. Veterans Hospital 4101 Woolworth St.

Phil’s Foodway 4232 Redman Ave.

Ville de Sante Terrace 6202 Ville de Sante Dr.

Pine Tower 1501 Pine St.

Village Inn 309 N. Fort Crook Rd. Bellevue

Plattsmouth (Neb.) Senior Center 308 S. 18th St.

Eagles Club 23rd & L streets

LaVista (Neb.) Senior Center 8116 Parkview Blvd.

Eagle (Neb.) Senior Center 509 4th St.

Leo’s Diner 6055 Maple St.

Elmwood (Neb) Senior Center 144 N. 4th St.

Leo Vaughn Manor 3325 Fontenelle Blvd.

Remington Heights 12606 W. Dodge Rd.

Elmwood Tower 801 S. 52nd St.

Life Care Center 6032 Ville de Sante Dr.

Ridgewood Apts.

6801 Spring St.

Ralston (Neb.) Senior Center 7301 Q St.

JC Wade Manor 3464 Ohio St. Walgreen’s Pharmacy 5038 Center St. Weeping Water (Neb.) Senior Center 101 E. Eldora St. The Wellington 501 E. Gold Coast Rd. Papillion

DAV seeking volunteer drivers to take veterans to the VAMC

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he Disabled American Veterans need volunteers to drive veterans one day a week to and from the VA Medical Center, 4101 Woolworth Ave. in Omaha.

While the volunteer drivers don’t need to be veterans, they do need a valid driver’s license, and be able to pass a drug screening and a Department of Transportation physical given at the VA Medical Center.

Drivers will be given a lunch voucher on the day they volunteer for the DAV. For more information, please contact Command Sergeant Major (retired) Lance Fouquet at 402-505-1482 or sgmman1447@gmail.com.

Elder Access Line

THEOS

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.

THEOS, a social organization for singles age 60 and older, meets at 1:30 p.m. on the second Monday of each month at New Cassel, 900 N. 90th St. Older men and women are encouraged to meet for a fun afternoon and to sign up for other activities.

For more information, call 402-399-0759 or 402393-3052.

Art studio Artists – who work in any medium – are encouraged to join an open art studio that meets Mondays from 1 to 3 p.m. at Presbyterian Church of the Cross, 1517 S. 114th St. For more information, please call Claudine Myers at 402-496-4330.

Fremont area vols needed for study

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he University of Nebraska Medical Center is looking for volunteers in the Fremont area to participate in a research study on Interactive Assistance for Pain Management.

The study will examine the practical use of a Google Home Mini Device to help with the self-management of musculoskeletal pain.

Study participants must be age 55 and older who take scheduled pain medications for musculoskeletal pain, live independently, be responsible for selfmanaging their medications, able to use a smart phone, have wireless Internet in their home, able to read and speak English, and complete questionnaires.

The volunteers will be asked to set three reminder prompts for their pain medications on the mini device for four weeks and be able to document their pain characteristics. They will also be asked to complete surveys before and after using the mini device.

The older adults involved in this study will be allowed to keep the Google Home Mini Device in exchange for their time.

For more information, please contact Dr. Marcia Shade at 402-559-6641 or marcia.shade@unmc.edu.

Fun People Club president donates Christmas stockings to ENOA Pat Loontjer, president of the Fun People Club in Omaha, recently donated more than 400 Christmas stockings to the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging’s Meals on Wheels program.

Loontjer is seen here with ENOA’s Jay Schuoler.

For more information, contact Loontjer at ploontjer@aol.com or 402-551-2776.

Nonagenarian Ward still enjoys riding her bicycle

Betty Ward, age 90, enjoys riding her bike in the driveway or along the road near her Omaha home.

Betty’s family gave her the bike on Ward’s 80th birthday.

February 2019

Log on to SeniorsSpeakNE.org

Groups working to educate Nebraska voters, legislators on Medicaid funds

O

n average, skilled nursing facilities lose $34 a day when caring for a resident covered by Medicaid, according to a report from Seniors Speak, a Nebraska Health Care Association and LeadingAge Nebraska initiative designed to help Nebraska voters and legislators understand Medicaid funding in the state.

The report from Seniors Speak also said further Medicaid cuts will drastically affect the lives of Nebraska residents, their families, and their ability to access healthcare services.

Thirty-three Nebraska skilled nursing facilities have closed in the last three years because management was unable to sustain operations. An additional 33 of these centers are under state receivership. Adequate funding continues to be a concern.

By 2026, nearly 16,000 nursing assistants will be needed to provide care in Nebraska’s skilled nursing facilities.

Sadly, the probability of filling those positions is low.

As life expectancy increases and the needs of the aging population evolve, it’s vital they have continued access to various levels of healthcare.

Nebraska census data reinforces the notion there will be a great surge in the total number of baby boomers living in our state and a sharp decline in the number of individuals available to provide care for them.

From 2010 to 2050, the number of Nebraskans age 70 and older will increase by six times the projected increase of the population below age 70.

Nebraska has 80 rural counties that account for 35 percent of the state’s population. More than half of Nebraskans age 85 or older reside in those communities. With limited long-term care options, some older adults will need to leave their communities to access services.

For more information, log on to SeniorsSpeakNE.org.

(Midwest Geriatrics, Inc. provided this information.)

Widowed Persons Group of Omaha

T

he Widowed Persons Group of Omaha hosts a luncheon the third Monday of each month at 11:30 a.m. at Jericho’s

Restaurant, 11732 W. Dodge Rd. For more information, please call 402-278-1731 or 402-493-0452.

Driving classes need teachers

I

nstructors – who speak English, Spanish, or both – are needed to teach AARP’s four-hour Driver Safety Program classes. AARP membership is not required to teach the course.

Qualified instructors will receive a stipend and/or a mileage reimbursement.

For more information, please contact Lance Fouquet at 402-505-1482 or sgmman1447@gmail.com.

Call 402-697-7514 for information

Six-week series of ‘Living Well Workshops’ begins Feb. 12 at St. Wenceslaus Church

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en and women who have a long-term health condition such as diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis, heart disease, or depression or who are caring for someone with a long-term health condition are invited to attend the Living Well Workshops.

The free, six-week series – led by trained professionals – will begin on Tuesday, Feb. 12 from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.

The sessions, which are sponsored by the St. Wenceslaus Volunteer Nurse Ministry, will be held in the parish office (lower level) at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church, 15353 Pacific St. To register or for more information on the Living Well Workshops, call 402-697-7514 or send an e-mail to parishnurse@stwenceslaus.org.

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Page 17

AARP’s Tax-Aide program is offering help filing tax returns

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he AARP Tax-Aide program provides free income tax preparation assistance at 11 Omaha area locations. The program is designed to assist low and moderate-income older adults, but also serves a variety of other clients, including students. With a few exceptions, each site will be open from early February through mid-April. The names, locations, and open days/hours for these sites are listed below.

When coming to the tax preparation sites, clients must bring a photo identification, all documents related to their income, Social Security cards for all persons named on the tax return, and last year’s tax return.

For more information, please call 402-398-9582 or go to www.nebraskataxaide.org.

Walk-in sites No appointments necessary Arrive early to sign in Abrahams Library 5111 N. 90th St. Friday Noon to 4 p.m.

Montclair Community Center 2304 S. 135th Ave. Tuesday-Thursday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

AgeWell by Immanuel 6801 N. 67th Plz. #100 Friday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

St. Martin de Porres Center 2111 Emmet St. Monday & Tuesday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Wednesday 4 to 7:30 p.m.

Bellevue Volunteer Firefighters Hall 2108 Franklin St. Monday & Wednesday 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

St. Joseph Villa Community Room 2305 S. 10th St. Sunday (through April 7) Noon to 4 p.m.

Bellevue University Library 1000 Galvin Rd. S. Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

By appointment only sites

Crossroads Mall (east corridor) 7400 Dodge St. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, & Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Wednesday, Noon to 4 p.m.

AARP Information Center 1941 S. 42nd St. Suite 220 (Center Mall) Monday-Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Call 402-398-9582 Kids Can Community Center 4860 Q St. Thursday 5 to 7 p.m.

Call 402-731-6988 (9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.)

Kids Can Community Center 4860 Q St. Tuesday & Thursday 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

LaVista Community Center 8116 Parkview Blvd.

Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Wednesday • 3 to 7 p.m.

Fraud Watch Network AARP’s Fraud Watch Network exists to educate older adults about potential charity scams. When it comes to charitable contributions, AARP wants you to know: • Scammers will contact you in person, by mail, over the phone, online, by text, and by email.

• The fake charity’s name may closely resemble the names of legitimate charities.

• Be skeptical when scammers pressure you to act quickly. See this as a red flag, and move on.

• Legitimate charities need your support, so they may also lose when scammers intervene.

• The Federal Trade Commission recommends making an annual donation plan listing the causes you want to support financially.

• If approached in person to make a donation, ask for identification and for information about the charity including its name and address, and how the funds will be used. If that person can’t answer these questions, walk away.

• Research charities at www.charitynavigator.com before making a donation.

Page 18

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Get the most from your vacation

Add these tips to your travel checklist

By William Spangler, M.D.

W

hen you’re about to embark on a journey to visit family, or travel internationally for a “bucket list trip,” you’ll want to do everything in your power to make sure you’ll enjoy the vacation, and that no unexpected surprises crop up to cut your trip short. For older travelers, there are a few additional precautions you’ll want to add to your checklist to help you stay in the best shape possible and get the most out of your trip.

• Getting there: One of the top unpleasant travel surprises would be getting sick.

To significantly decrease the chances of this happening, make sure you’re making smart choices during the travel portion of your trip. The overall stress of travel is more debilitating than people understand, so it’s harder to bounce back from these physical tolls on our bodies. That, coupled with potential jet lag and lack of sleep, can make you more susceptible to illness than normal, so take some simple precautions to help fend off travel-related ailments.

First and foremost, keep it clean. Needless to say, when traveling, you’re going to encounter more people and germs than you would during an average day at home.

Studies have shown airports, planes, railway stations, and trains are hotspots for bacteria.

My top advice is to wash your hands frequently. You’re going to be touching numerous surfaces – buttons, touch screens, trays at the security line, armrests, and tray tables – that countless people have touched before you between cleanings. Bring a bottle of antibacterial hand sanitizer wherever you go. Also, consider bringing a small packet of wipes when you’re flying to wipe down the surfaces that will be in your immediate vicinity for the duration of your flight, particularly the seat-back tray table, which has been shown to harbor more germs than the airplane bathroom.

Keep moving, especially during a long flight. Remaining sedentary for extended periods of time can introduce problems. One of the most common of these is deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is the formation of blood clots, particularly in the lower leg or thigh. It doesn’t cause much pain, but when the clots break off and go elsewhere, they can create serious problems. Try to get up at least every two hours, even if it’s only in your seat just to move your legs. If you can walk up and down the aisle a bit, that’s even better.

• Traveling with medications: There are numerous things to consider here, especially for older travelers who, generally, have a higher quantity of prescriptions. Try to take meds in the original containers, because these will have your name on them, the doctor’s name, and if somebody looks at it, it will be much more official and could help you avoid trouble.

If you have a narcotic prescription, or a Schedule 1 or Schedule 2 drug, it’s helpful to have a letter from your doctor confirming he or she has prescribed it for you and considers it appropriate. It’s not as important when traveling domestically, but if you’re in the Middle East or another region with extremely strict laws and you get stopped with this type of prescription drug in your possession, you’ll be glad you had some documentation.

Another helpful document is one you draft yourself: a typed list that includes both

February 2019

the generic name and the trade name of every medication you have with you on the trip, as well as the dosage and frequency for each. In the event you’re hospitalized in a foreign country (particularly where English isn’t the native language), they’ll need to know what medications to give you.

If you’re unable to communicate – and any travel companion has only limited knowledge of your pill regimen – that printed glossary could save the day.

Take more medications than you think you’ll need. Assume your trip will be prolonged, delayed, canceled, or something else happens, resulting in your needing three extra days’ worth of medications.

Never put your prescriptions in your checked luggage.

• Know your limits: Possibly the best advice I can offer to older travelers is to “know your limits.” Older travelers need to ask themselves, “Should I be traveling?” If you have trouble getting around at home, a walking tour of Paris isn’t a great idea.

If certain medical issues exist, such as COPD, angina, DVT, or if you’re on a blood thinner, ask your doctor if you’re fit to travel. And if so, what precautions could you take to help make the trip more seamless? Are there any accommodations you should plan for ahead of time, or request of the airlines (wheelchair at the gate, etc.) that could help?

On a related note, when traveling across time zones, plan for your first day at the destination to be easy. If you’re fighting jet lag, find some activities to help you stay awake until 7 or 8 p.m. to sync yourself to that time zone.

• Seeking medical treatment abroad: If you experience a major health event while traveling outside the U.S., there are numerous other things you should know. It’s a common myth that your primary health insurance will pay for treatment you receive while overseas, and cover an air ambulance, if that’s needed to get you home. It’s worth calling your insurance company to ask that question before your trip. It’s rare for health insurance to follow you outside the U.S. Also, hospital experiences in other countries are different than those in the U.S. Many aren’t air conditioned, and not every facility has private rooms. There are also many facilities without adequate nursing care. In some places the family is expected to provide linens and food for the patient.

In many facilities the quality of care isn’t the same as you might get in the U.S. and you don’t normally get discharged from the hospital in many Central and South American countries until the bill is paid in full.

Knowing where to go for treatment – if you’re in a foreign country – is going to be an important question to address, as well as knowing how you’re going to pay for any treatment you might require.

Consider buying a travel insurance policy before you take your next vacation. You can call your travel insurance agent to locate appropriate healthcare assistance. The policy may also assist with the cost of paying for a hospitalization or a new airline ticket if you miss your return flight home.

Travel brings nearly unlimited opportunities for novel experiences and lasting memories. Do what you can to make sure you stay in top health throughout your journey so you can enjoy every bit of it.

(Dr. Spangler is the global medical director for AIG Travel.)

Newly enacted BOLD Act will combat Alzheimer’s, help preserve brain health

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ecently, the Building Our Largest Dementia (BOLD) Infrastructure for Alzheimer’s Act – legislation that, for the first time, will create a public health infrastructure across the country to combat Alzheimer’s disease and preserve brain health – was signed into law.

The BOLD Act was authored by U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), and Tim Kaine (D-VA).

“Alzheimer’s disease is one of the greatest and most under-recognized public health threats of our time. Millions of Americans and thousands of Mainers are living with the disease, and that number is soaring as our overall population grows older and lives longer,” said Sen. Collins, a founder and Senate co-chair of the Congressional Task Force on Alzheimer’s Disease.

“After decades of increasing investments in biomedical research for Alzheimer’s, we are ready for the next step: to translate research into practice. The BOLD Act takes a multi-pronged public health approach that will create a modern infrastructure for the prevention, treatment, and care of Alzheimer’s and related dementias,” Collins said.

“The BOLD Act is the first step in addressing the ongoing public health crisis that is affecting more than five million Americans,” said Sen. Cortez Masto.

“To prevent millions of more Americans and their families from being devastated by Alzheimer’s, we have to tackle this disease on all fronts. With the BOLD Act, we can empower our federal and state public health infrastructure to play an expanded role and better understand the true scope of this disease,” Sen. Capito said.

“I am thrilled that our bipartisan bill to strengthen our country’s response to Alzheimer’s was officially signed into law,” Sen. Kaine said. “Too many families know what it’s like to have a loved one with Alzheimer’s, and I hope that our efforts will start to provide much-needed relief to those affected.”

Approximately 5.5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s, and the disease costs the United States more than $277 billion per year, including $186 billion in costs to Medicare and Medicaid. Without further action, the number of Americans with Alzheimer’s is expected to triple to as many as 14 million by 2050, costing the nation more than $1.1 trillion per year.

This legislation applies a public health approach to reduce risk, detect early symptoms, advance care, improve data, and ultimately change the trajectory of this devastating disease. Headed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the law authorizes $20 million in annually expenditures over the next five years.

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Family Caregiver Workshops

egistration is underway for three workshops designed by Flaherty Consulting of Omaha to help caregivers provide the best possible care for their loved ones with dementia. All sessions will be held at the Servite Center of Compassion, 7400 Military Ave. (via 72nd Street and Ames Avenue).

• Is It Normal Aging or Something Else?

Saturday, March 2 9:30 to 11 a.m.

• Are There Different Kinds of Dementia?

Saturday, April 6 9:30 to 11 a.m.

• Creating a Plan for Peace of Mind: Short Term and Long Term Saturday, May 4 9:30 to 11 a.m.

Participants may attend any or all of the sessions, and registration is required. While there’s no charge to attend, a free-will offering will be taken.

To register, please call Sister Margaret Stratman at 402951-3026 or email her at scc@osms.org. Please include which session(s) you want to attend.

Visit www.flahertyconsulting.net or call 402-312-9324 for more information about these and other programs.

February 2019

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New Horizons

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Page 19

Senior Companion aids client during house fire

Apostle Vanessa Ward...

Violet Wooten (left) and Lucille Williams get together three times a week.

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his particular late Autumn afternoon was like many others Violet Wooten and Lucille Williams have spent together during the last 10

Vanessa at the annual neighborhood summer picnic with Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert.

--Continued from page 13.

The gubernatorial race confirmed Ward’s belief the way past the animosity permeating the nation is by meeting people without judgment.

“When people feel safe, they can be themselves regardless of their differences. When people feel safe, they talk, and when we start communicating then we start building relationships without the masks and the personas.

“We have to create that place to feel safe. We’ve got to make some approaches, or I think we’re going to self-consume. Without hope, there’s chaos, and with chaos, there’s doom.”

Ward is expecting to be fully healed from a broken leg she suffered last fall by the time the next block party rolls around on Aug. 10. This year’s event will be held at Fontenelle Park from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in and around the pavilion.

“In another four months it should be like the broken leg never happened, and by the block party I should be skipping,” Vanessa said.

Whatever she does, you can bet she’ll be moving forward in hope and in love.

“Let’s keep hope alive,” she said.

Follow Vanessa Ward on Facebook and YouTube.

(Read more of Biga’s work at leoadambiga.com.)

This street sign on Omaha’s North 38th Street honors Ward for her community service.

Page 20

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years.

Lucille is a retired hairstylist who for 55 years cut, curled, and colored hair first at the All Nations Barber and Beauty Salon near 24th and Lake streets, and later in her own shop.

Violet is a volunteer with the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging’s Senior Companion Program (SCP).

Sponsored locally by ENOA, the SCP is a national program of the Corporation for National and Community Service through the Senior Service Corps.

Senior Companions – who are age 55 and older – help older adults maintain their independence by visiting them at home to discuss current events, read mail, play cards, write letters, run errands, etc.

SCP volunteers must meet income guidelines and complete an enrollment process that includes reference and background checks.

In exchange for volunteering 15 or more hours per week, Senior Companions receive a $2.65 an hour tax-free stipend, mileage reimbursement, an annual physical examination, supplemental accident insurance coverage, and other benefits including an annual recognition luncheon.

The stipend does not interfere with rent, disability, Medicaid, or other benefits.

E

very Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Wooten, a retired machine operator for the Lozier Corporation, visits Williams in her home as part of the Senior Companion Program.

“We visit, play cards, and go shopping,” Violet said.

Lucille, who raised two daughters (one is deceased), has seven grandchildren and 17 great-grandkids. She was referred to the SCP by the Visiting Nurse Association following a stroke.

Her daughter, Denise Williams, is a big fan of the Senior Companion Program. “I love it because Mama isn’t sitting at home by herself.”

She’s also fond of Wooten, and everything Violet does for Lucille. “Vi is part of our family now,” Denise said.

“The SCP strives to make the best possible match between the companion and client in order to fully enrich the lives of both participants,” said Laura Shillito, Lucille’s ENOA care manager.

February 2019

“Violet and Lucille are a testament to those efforts. I know Lucille very much looks forward to Violet’s company, and I can see why.”

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ear the end of her visit to Williams’ home on Wednesday, Dec. 5, Wooten saw smoke pouring into the dining room. Thinking and reacting quickly, Violet maneuvered Lucille and her wheelchair onto the front porch and closed the front door.

Williams pushed a button on the Personal Emergency Response System she wears around her neck to summon help from the Omaha Fire Department.

Within a few minutes, OFD personnel arrived on the scene. They wrapped Lucille in a blanket, lifted her out of the wheelchair, and placed her safely inside Wooten’s vehicle.

The firefighters then quickly extinguished a fire in Williams’ furnace.

Recalling the incident a few days later, Lucille looked across the room at Violet and spoke softly. “She saved my life,” Williams said. “I could have died if I’d been sleeping or was alone.”

Violet modestly downplayed her role. “I don’t even want to think about it,” she said.

Denise Williams said Wooten is Lucille’s guardian angel.

Shillito said Violet is a very compassionate and caring person. “Her actions that day were nothing less than heroic.”

“I’m pleased that one of Senior Companion Program volunteers was present at this critical time,” said Beth Paleogos, who coordinates the SCP for ENOA.

T

hese days Lucille is living with her daughter. The home repairs are expected to take two months.

Although the visits have moved to a new location, Violet still stops by to see Lucille three days a week.

The special bond these ladies have built over the last decade is obvious to anyone spending time with Wooten and Williams.

“I see her as being like my sister now,” Lucille said.

Sitting nearby, Wooten looked at Williams, smiled, but said nothing. No words were necessary.

“Violet and Lucille have become close friends who can count on one another in good times and in bad. That’s what this program is all about,” Paleogos said.

For more information about becoming a Senior Companion, please call 402-4446536.