July 2020 Senior Spectrum Newspaper by Senior Spectrum Newspapers

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Nursing Home COVID-19 Data and Inspections Available on Nursing Home Compare

July 2020

n June 4th, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) began posting the first set of underlying coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) nursing home data. In April, CMS announced the requirement that nursing homes must inform residents, their families, and their representatives of COVID-19 cases in their facilities. In addition to this, nursing homes are required to report COVID-19 cases and deaths directly to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and CMS is making this data publicly available. As part of the announcement CMS is also posting the results from targeted inspections that allowed inspectors to focus on the most serious health and safety threats like infectious diseases and abuse during the pandemic. COVID-19 Nursing Home Data The data released shows that as of May 31, 2020, about

13,600 nursing homes – approximately 88 percent of the 15,400 Medicare and Medicaid nursing homes – had reported the required data to the (CDC). These facilities reported over 95,000 confirmed COVID-19 cases and almost 32,000 deaths.

THIS ISSUE

EVeRY ISSUE

Page 3 - Nursing Home Compare During COVID-19

Page 4 - US Senator Catherine Cortez-Masto

Page 9 - Senior Medicare Patrol Warns of COVID-19 Fraud

Page 6 - Sparks City Councilman, Khristopher Dahir

Page 10 - FTC Warns Marketers to stop Unsupported Claims to Treat COVID-19

& COVID-19 - Center for Healthy Aging

Going forward, CMS plans to update the data weekly. For a quick overview of the nursing home COVID-19 data visit: https://www.cms.gov/ files/document/covid-nursing-home-reporting-numbers-5-31-20.pdf

Page 11 - Older Adults Face Obstacles in Paying for Health Care

To view the Nursing Home COVID-19 data, visit here: https://data.cms.gov/ Covid19-nursing-home-data To view the state survey memo on COVID-19 nursing home data, visit here: https://www.cms.gov/ medicareprovider-enrollment-and-certificationsurveycertificationgeninfopolicy-and-memos-states-and/ release-covid-19-nursinghome-data

Page 12 - State Receives Influenza Vaccination Funds Page 13 - Evaluating Your

Page 7 - Elder Loneliness

Page 16 - Recreation Programs in the Mid Pandemic Page 17 -this ‘n that Page 18 - Calendar Page 26 - Tinseltown Page 28 - Biggest Little City

Medicare Coverage

Page 29 - Resources

Page 14 - Food Drive

Page 31 - Crossword

Page 15 - Free Alzheimer’s Memory Screenings

Page 32 - Simply Smart Travel

Page 30 - Aging Well in America

Senior Spectrum Newspaper P.O. Box 7124 • Reno, NV 89510 775/348-0717 email: SeniorSpectrumNV@aol.com Web: SeniorSpectrumNewspaper.com Family Publishers Connie McMullen • Chase McMullen Editorial not necessarily the opinion of SSN www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com // July 2020

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Opinion

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In Tough Times, Nevadans Work Together By U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto

ne of the things that makes me most proud to be from Nevada is that in tough times, Nevadans have always come together to help their communities. In the aftermath of the Route 91 Harvest Music Festival massacre, people in both Las Vegas and Reno lined up around the block to donate blood for the victims. When a wildfire burned 2,000 acres in Reno’s Catherine Cortez Masto Caughlin Ranch area in 2011, citizens rushed to provide food, clothing and other services to those displaced. Even during the 1918 Spanish Flu pandemic, Northern Nevadans worked together to pass out masks and help sick neighbors, including children at the Carson City Orphan’s Home. As the residents of our great state bravely meet the new challenges associated with COVID-19, I want to recognize some of the outstanding Northern Nevadans who have gone above and beyond to save lives, protect our vulnerable populations, support small businesses and bring their communities together. Our doctors, nurses and essential workers have been heroically working to keep our state safe throughout this pandemic, putting their lives at risk every day to treat and care for those in need. The selflessness and dedication of our health care professionals is evident all across the Silver State, and some of Nevada’s nurses have even answered the call to help in other states experiencing larger surges of coronavirus cases, including a group of 5 VA nurses from Northern Nevada who recently flew to New Jersey to assist staff in impacted nursing homes. These brave professionals deserve our thanks for their service, which is why I’ve cosponsored the First Responder Service Award Act to establish an award program for front-line health care workers who responded to the COVID-19 pandemic that could be used to pay off existing student loans, or save for retirement. This month I’ve also had the privilege to speak to countless other front-line workers who are unsung heroes who have been keeping our public spaces clean, our grocery store shelves stocked and our mail delivered. These men and women have stepped up tremendously to ensure the Northern Nevada community can stay safe, and I’m working in Congress to ensure they have the resources – from safety training and personal protective equipment to mental health support – they need to do their vital work.

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Tough Times / page 4

For other Nevadans, heroism isn’t in their job title, but rather in the innovative ways they’ve found to volunteer their time and talents to their communities. When University of Nevada, Reno student Jayde Powell realized the heightened risk seniors could face when shopping for groceries during the pandemic, she created a group of “shopping angels” to deliver food and supplies to seniors self-isolating or at heightened risk for coronavirus complications. Members of Soroptimist International of Truckee Meadows have sewed hundreds of fabric face masks for hospice nurses and home health care staff. And while I’ve had the pleasure of touring the Food Bank of Northern Nevada multiple times, I’m still inspired by the work they’re doing to provide struggling families in Reno with food distributions through “drive-by” food distribution events. They’re also partnering with more than 20 agencies across rural Nevada to ensure their work reaches as many communities as possible. To support their efforts, I’ve also called on Senate leadership to strengthen vital food benefits like Supplemental Assistance for Needy Families Program (SNAP) so that no Nevada family goes hungry during this pandemic.

I want all Nevadans to know that even as we face difficulties, together we can make a difference and better our communities. As Mr. Rogers so wisely said, this is a time to “look for the helpers” who are saving lives, uplifting small businesses and providing life lines to those in need. And, for those who are able, this can also be a time to be the helper, whether that is through sewing masks or dropping off canned goods at a local, socially-distant donation site. As we continue to fight coronavirus and safely re-open our economy, I hope we all take time to offer our heartfelt thanks to those in our community who have given so much to protect and serve their fellow Nevadans during this unprecedented time. _______________________________________ Reno Office: US Senator Catherine Cortez-Masto, Federal Building, 400 South Virginia Street, Suite 902, Reno, NV 89501.

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www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com // July 2020

Opinion Kristopher Dahir Sparks City Council

Responding or Reacting?

uch has happened over the last two months and it seems that this latest wave of sadness, injustice, rioting, and the like, has continued to drive people into fear and confusion. This concerns me for a myriad

of reasons. While I certainly have my opinions on each of the situations we currently face, rather than attempting to dive into each challenge and try to explain my perspective, instead, I want to share with you how I hope we choose to respond instead of react to our daily life. Kristopher Dahir

A reaction is an action performed or a feeling experienced in response to a situation or event. It is in conjunction with a science term as to what happens if someone ingests something and how their body immediately responds. It is like two chemicals that mix and there is a reaction that cannot be stopped or controlled unless a different additive is placed into the ingredients. A response would give the connotation that it was given thought and the decision was aligned with one’s personal values before the action was triggered. The root word actually derives from the word pledge. A good word we could use in this situation is contemplation. Take a moment to listen, learn, evaluate and then respond. With this challenge to watch myself and respond correctly, I have focused on determining what things in my life I can actually control as the current storms of life unfold.

Here are my thoughts: • This week, I have spent my time caring for every human being that comes near me.

always stand for doing right and caring for others. • I have had conversations with fellow pastors about how we can preach and practice unity and compassion. • I visited sick and hurting veterans and shared encouraging words as their chaplain. • I have watched, listened and spoken into our city and region as a city councilman about what type of community we want to be. • I spent time with students teaching them what valuing others means and how to practically live out that value • I took a few minutes to write an article to the wisest men and women in our region. (By the way that is you- you have seen much and we need your voice and wisdom shared). • I have spent time in praying for peace and wisdom as we seek wholeness. • I also have exercised, eaten healthy and have taken care of myself in order to keep my mind clear and decisions solid. I will continue to walk slow and look for people and situations where I can help show love and value. As I close my comments, I have a few challenges for you. Please consider each of them as we work together to find health, wholeness and value in one another. 1. Please share your experience and the life lessons you have learned. We are trying to walk a path that many of you have already learned lessons from. 2. Respond and avoid reacting. For me when I feel the reaction coming, I add the additive of hope to the conversation and it leads me back to looking for the correct response.

• I went downtown after the riots and helped the other 300+ people present clean up the mess from the evening before.

3. Value who you are and what you bring to the table. I have learned in my years of living and around other people that if I don’t see myself as valuable then it is impossible to show others that value.

• I have taken the time to listen to men and women who are grieving and feel pain from past and present wrongs.

4. When you see a person or a group of people hurting take a moment to listen, process and respond.

• I have had long conversations with my kids and my wife about who we are as a family, what all of this means to us. We reiterated that we are a family who values all life and will

Thank you for allowing me to take a moment to share my heart and focus during this trying time.

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“Adding Life to Years” Dr. Larry Weiss Center for Healthy Aging

Elder Loneliness and COVID-19

ust as Nevada’s elders and the nation’s older population as a whole is skyrocketing, we are facing two deadly epidemics: COVID-19 and loneliness. One is deadly now, the other a slow-motion threat of equal consequence. Even before the current crisis, we were in a social recession, as evidenced by dramatic increases in loneliness and isolation. Now we Larry Weiss entered a social depression that could last for years. And here, too, older people are most at risk.

and despair facing so many older people to individual kindness and self-help strategies, as useful as they can be. The epidemic is too big, too structural and too costly for these approaches alone. Research from the University of California, San Francisco shows that 43 percent of adults over 65 feel lonely, which puts them at higher risk for poor health. In addition, AARP researchers traced social isolation to nearly $7 billion in additional Medicare spending every year. To address the issue of becoming a stronger, more caring and connected society, we need a social stimulus plan as bold and encompassing as the fiscal one. It should start with alleviating, even preventing, loneliness.

Policymakers in Washington, D.C. quickly adopted a multi-trillion economic stimulus program, but nothing for a social stimulus. Federal and state help is sorely needed to help navigate the present dangers of disconnection and address the longer-term consequences of a fragmented social fabric, isolation and loneliness. We can’t relegate the fight against loneliness

Several years ago, the U.K. appointed a “Minister of Loneliness”. The United States could establish something equivalent, a cabinet-level position tasked with creating a comprehensive plan to connect people in ways that prevent isolation and loneliness. Next, we’ll need an infusion of resources equal (Loneliness page 8)

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Loneliness / page 7

to the need and the task. Here we can take some inspiration from Singapore, a tiny nation with a grand plan to transform aging, provide purpose for its rapidly growing aging population, and create intergenerational connection. Singapore has pledged billions to co-locate senior centers and preschools, build three-generation housing and encourage older people to volunteer in schools and across the community. The goal is to create villages for all ages, anchored in intergenerational interaction. Not a bad goal for American society, where we now have more people over 60 than under 18. The village concept is as old as humanity, but has been lost with population growth and increased mobility. It’s not too soon to think big about a better life after the pandemic crisis subsides. But we need backing to grow in a post-virus world where face-to-face connection will be more encouraged and more valued than before. All of these ideas should be accompanied by a major effort to call the older U.S. population to serve and connect with others. Volunteering is such an important health intervention for older adults resulting in the suggestion by many that the Federal Medicare program incorporate and support volunteer programs like AARP’s Experience Corps. This is a tutoring and

mentoring effort that matches older adults with K-3 students in under-resourced public schools. This kind of public health investment could save money in the long run, as older adults stay healthier longer, including becoming less alone and isolated, and increase their community connection. Participating children become more connected with adults, which helps increase self-confidence, social interaction, and help with education. Programs that engage older people in neighborhood schools have a powerful impact not only on reducing loneliness, but on the physical and mental well-being of elders and the educational achievements of students. Education actually can be a very viable method of combating loneliness itself. Even in these stay at home pandemic days, education stimulates our mind and can facilitate social interaction, if not in person, through the various internet mechanisms. Elders can become students themselves, continuing their own learning and growth while age-integrating the world of higher education. For example, across the country, programs at universities provide various educational programs and in fact, draw elders back to campuses for a new stage of education, not only to stimulate learning but to build ties with peers and younger students. Let’s democratize the idea by allowing elders to take an early year of Social Security and use the money to go back to college. In return, they’d agree to work longer before getting their Social Security benefits. This could produce enormous individual and societal value. Other ideas to support new thinking and the scaling of promising startups can include an innovation fund fueled by public and private sector dollars, another pillar of Singapore’s plan! We can be encouraged by programs that pair students with isolated elders. Such programs can include home sharing that provide affordable housing to young people and help elders age in place. Or programs that include schools that educate preschoolers and older adults. However, they need backing to grow in a post-virus world where face-to-face connection will be more encouraged and more valued than before. All of these ideas should be accompanied by a major effort to call the older U.S. population to serve and connect with others. The reality is actually being demonstrated every day right now, as thousands of older volunteers, including retired doctors and nurses, come forward to help fight the virus to the benefit of their communities and themselves.

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June 2020 Senior Spectrum //

The tragedy of the COVID-19 pandemic and the necessity of social distancing underscore the growing social isolation crisis that is sapping far too many lives of meaning, joy and contribution. As the population of older people grows and the risk of disconnection grows along with it, it’s time to think about how we can flatten the loneliness curve and put in place policies and measures that will carry us through this crisis into a (Loneliness page 12) www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com

July 2020 // www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com

Senior Medicare Patrol Warns of COVID-19 Fraud The Senior Medicare Patrol National Resource Center

he Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) has been receiving complaints of unsolicited callers using the fear and uncertainty from the COVID-19 pandemic to prey on Medicare beneficiaries. SMPs, who operate in every state, help beneficiaries prevent, detect, and report Medicare fraud, errors, and abuse.

How to spot a scam or fraud

Be wary if you receive an unsolicited phone call that offers: • To send you COVID-19 testing kits, vaccines, prescriptions, supplies such as masks, creams, and hand sanitizer, or even a COVID-19 treatment package. Beneficiaries who give out their information sometimes get back or orthotic braces in the mail instead. • A new Medicare card and COVID supplies in exchange for a Medicare number. Medicare will not call you to offer a new card or request information in order to issue a new card. • More Medicare insurance coverage. Insurance companies who do not already have a relationship with a beneficiary cannot initiate a call. Information about changes to Medicare coverage because of the pandemic can be found on this practice tip from the National Center on Law & Elder Rights. Other examples of potential COVID-19 fraud that SMPs have seen are health care providers improperly diagnosing patients with COVID-19 in order to receive higher payment; people going door to door at senior housing to perform COVID-19 tests; and hospitals attempting to charge for COVID-19 antibody tests.

How to Protect Yourself

To protect yourself, we recommend that you: • Contact your own doctor (not a doctor you’ve never met who calls) if you are experiencing potential symptoms of COVID-19. (Fraud page 10)

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FTC Warns Marketers to Stop Unsupported Claims That Products, Therapies Can Prevent, Treat COVID-19 Supposed treatments and cures include infrared light, oral peroxide gel, and oxygen therapy

he Federal Trade Commission has sent letters warning 30 more marketers nationwide to stop making unsubstantiated claims that their products and therapies can treat or prevent COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus. This is the seventh set of warning letters the FTC has announced as part of its ongoing efforts to protect consumers from health-related COVID-19 scams. In all, the Commission has sent similar letters to 250 companies and individuals. Most of the letters target “treatments” the FTC has warned companies about previously, including intravenous (IV) Vitamin C and D infusions, supposed stem cell therapy, vitamin injections, essential oils, and CBD products.

Other letters sent recently challenged claims that infrared heat, oral peroxide gel, and oxygen therapy can treat or cure COVD-19. Currently there is no scientific evidence that these, or any, products or services can treat or cure the disease. The letters advise the recipients to immediately stop making all claims that their products can treat or cure COVID-19, and to notify the Commission within 48 hours about the specific actions they have taken to address the agency’s concerns. The letters also note that if the false claims do not cease, the Commission may seek a federal court injunction, and an order requiring money to be refunded to consumers. In April, the FTC announced its first case against a marketer of such products, Marc Ching, doing business as Whole Leaf Organics.

Fraud / from page 9

• Do not give out your Medicare number, Social Security number, or personal information in response to unsolicited calls, texts, emails, or home visits. Personal information that is compromised may be used in other fraud schemes as well. • Be suspicious of anyone going door-to-door offering free COVID-19 testing, supplies, or treatments. • Carefully review your Medicare Summary Notice (MSN) or Explanation of Benefits (EOB), looking for errors or claims for products or services that weren’t received. • Follow the instructions of state or local government for other actions you should take in response to COVID-19. Contact your local SMP for help. For more information and resources related to COVID-19 fraud, errors, and abuse, visit the SMP National Resource Center’s COVID-19 Fraud web page. Other information for SMP can be found at smpresource.org.

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For Medicare coverage questions, contact the local State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) at shiptacenter.org or 1-877839-2675. June // 2020 Senior Spectrum // www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com July 2020 www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com

NCOA Study:

3 Million Low-Income Older Adults Face Systemic Obstacles to Programs that Help Pay for Health Care Policy solutions would make access to benefits easier for low-income individuals

he National Council on Aging (NCOA) has issued a study analyzing the systemic obstacles that keep nearly 3 million eligible older adults and people with disabilities from accessing programs designed to help pay for their health care and medicine. The issue brief offers policy solutions to ensure that all eligible low-income individuals receive the assistance. Millions of financially vulnerable older adults and people with disabilities who have trouble affording prescription drugs and health care qualify for Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs), which help pay for Medicare premiums and cost sharing, and the Medicare Part D Low-Income Subsidy (LIS), (also known as Extra Help), which helps pay for prescription drugs. The issue brief estimates regarding eligibility, enrollment, and take-up rates in MSPs and LIS among the age 65 and older non-institutionalized population come from even years of data gathered between 2008 and 2014.

The complete issue brief, Take-Up Rates in Medicare Savings Programs and the Part D Low-Income Subsidy Among Community-Dwelling Medicare Beneficiaries Age 65 and Older, is available online.

“About two-thirds of people eligible for MSPs are enrolled, but another 2.5 million Medicare beneficiaries are missing out on the benefits of this program,” said Dr. Susan Silberman, NCOA Senior Director, Research and Evaluation. “While some of these individuals may be making an informed decision to not apply, many are unaware that they are eligible or have found the enrollment process too intimidating to attempt or too difficult to complete.” NCOA recommends a range of policy solutions that would improve access to these important Medicare low-income assistance programs. They include: • Loosening eligibility standards, which can have the dual effect of making more people eligible and making enrollment easier • Aligning eligibility standards more closely across programs, particularly between MSP and Part D LIS • Simplifying the enrollment process to make signing up as automatic as possible • Allocating more resources for benefits outreach and enrollment to find and assist eligible individuals in applying for the programs

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www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com // July 2020

Nevada State Immunization Program Receives Federal Funds to Support Influenza Vaccination Campaign

he Nevada State Immunization Program (NSIP) has received a supplemental funding award of $1,279,710 from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to fund an enhanced influenza vaccination campaign during the 2020-2021 influenza season. The purpose of this funding is to increase the number of Nevadans who receive their annual influenza (flu) vaccination as a critical part of Nevada’s COVID-19 response, and to decrease the burden of preventable influenza illnesses and hospitalizations on the health care system. With projected co-circulation of influenza viruses and COVID-19 during the 2020-2021 influenza season, it will be more important than ever for everyone

age 6 months and older to be vaccinated against influenza. NSIP will award the funds to Immunize Nevada, Carson City Health and Human Services (CCHHS), Washoe County Health District (WCHD), and Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD). Immunize Nevada, a non-profit organization, will conduct a statewide promotional media campaign and will support vaccination events in rural counties in cooperation with local community health nurses. The three local health districts will be organizing and implementing mass vaccination events and developing vaccination strike teams in their respective communities to increase vaccine access. Activities will target populations at higher risk from both influenza and coronavirus including offering vaccination events for staff and residents of long-term care facilities, adults with underlying illnesses, African Americans, Latinos, and adults who are identified as essential workers including health care workers, grocery store employees, delivery workers and others. Additionally, these enhanced influenza activities will help Nevada’s communities prepare and practice for the availability of a COVID-19 vaccine using appropriate social distancing and related safety precautions during mass vaccination events. These activities will help Nevada’s public health community identify and address potential challenges to future mass vaccination events.

Loneliness / page 8

new era of interdependence and health. How do you get someone who is lonely and isolated to re-enter the world? There are a variety of programs that do that every day by creating a community where they live that is filled with educational opportunities, arts, wellness, lifelong learning, a sense of community and purpose, social connectivity to all ages and a place in the community elevated by people seeing how great this time of life can be instead of being afraid of it. No question it is challenging, but social isolation is preventable. Knowing where the resources are and using technology to supplement in-person contact can mitigate loneliness and depression. Making social engagement a priority early on will have a long-term impact on mental health and happiness, what better way to “add life to years”.

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Lawrence J. Weiss, Ph.D. is CEO of the Center for Healthy Aging. Dr. Weiss welcomes your comments on this column. Write to him at larry@addinglifetoyears.com or c/o Center for Healthy Aging, 11 Fillmore Way, Reno, NV 89519.

July 2020 //June www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com 2020 Senior Spectrum // www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com

Evaluating Your Medicare Coverage During the Pandemic

Calvin Bagley, President The Medicare Store

here is nothing that will bring healthcare to the forefront of your mind like living through a worldwide pandemic. With seniors being in the high-risk category, many are now reevaluating their current healthcare benefits to ensure optimal coverage during this crisis. These same individuals may also be looking for ways to reduce the overall cost of their plan, while still accessing and maintaining high quality care. In Nevada, 4.7 percent of the workforce is 65+ years old. With the state economy driven by tourism and gaming, many individuals have been furloughed, or even lost their jobs due to COVID-19. This disturbance has made it impossible for some individuals to maintain healthcare coverage or pay their premiums. This is where Medicare can help, but researching the intricacies of each plan can be a daunting and overwhelming task. We outlined a few options that could help you save money and ensure you maximize your health coverage. Furloughed or Displaced Workers: A large portion of the 4.7 percent of seniors working in Nevada are employed by casinos or the hospitality industry and even as the economy reopens, there is still uncertainty of when employees will go back to work full-time. If you lost your job, you qualify for an 8-month special enrollment period that begins the month after your employment ends.

care Advantage plans have an annual out of pocket maximum, so you will not have runaway costs in the event of an emergency or while receiving routine care. Reduced Income: If your income decreased because of a life-changing event, such as the COVID-19 crisis, you may be able to get your surcharge dropped. People with larger incomes could be paying an Income Related Monthly Adjusted Amount (IRMAA) on their Medicare premium, which is applied to Part B and Part D plan. The IRMAA is based on a two-year look-back on their Adjusted Gross Income (AGI). Individuals in this category can apply to eliminate their surcharge by filling out a form available on Medicare.gov. The form is available under “Your Medicare Costs” on Medicare.gov and can help you reduce costs for both Part B and Part D (drug care coverage costs). (Coverage page 14)

Most likely, you were enrolled in Medicare Part A and had group coverage from your previous employer. You may need to enroll in Medicare Part B, which will have a premium of $144.60 a month for most people. One way to reduce your Medicare costs is to join a Part C Medicare Advantage plan. The Medicare Advantage plan, which is often called “Part C” or “MA Plans,” are an “all in one” alternative to Original Medicare. Medicare Advantage plans are an underutilized way to save money on healthcare costs. These plans keep all of the medical coverage offered under Original Medicare and they often include added benefits not covered by Original Medicare like dental, vision, hearing, and transportation to doctor’s offices. They also usually include drug coverage (with no additional premium) which saves you from paying for an expensive Medicare Supplement plan. Some MA plans also give you money to use for health-related items you buy over the counter like pain medication, first aid items, and even weight scales. Most importantly, and unlike Original Medicare, Medi-

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Food Bank of Northern Nevada holds Second Food Drive for Emergency Donations

he Food Bank of Northern Nevada has seen tremendous increases in the need for emergency food services since mid-March 2020 to feed more people due to the COVID-19 virus. Before the pandemic, the organization was helping appromately 91,000 people per month. During the single month of April, the Food Bank of Northern Nevada helped more than 123,000 people, a 35 percent increase. To meet the growing need, the Food Bank is hosting a Feed NV and the Sierra drive-through a food drop-off event on July 9, from 9 – 12 noon at Scheels, located at 1200 Scheels Drive in Sparks. This is the second community food drive of its kind since they suspended regular food drive operations in midMarch for safety and logistics concerns due to COVID-19. With the increased level in need for emergency food services along with supply chain delays, the Food Bank is gathering food for families throughout the 90,000 square mile service area. Four categories of non-expired, canned food are urgently needed. They include: - Entrées (Soups, Chili’s, etc.) - Protein (Tuna, Chicken, Beans) - Canned fruit - Canned vegetables

Those attending and donating at the Feed NV and the Sierra drive-through food drive should expect to stay in their cars to encourage safe social distance guidelines. Volunteers will remove bagged and/or boxed food donations from cars and place them into bins. For those who are not able to attend the food drive, they can Text the word FeedNV with an amount to 50155 to donate online. Every $1= 3 meals. The Food Bank has also seen more people at their Mobile Harvest program, which delivers fresh fruits and vegetables to families in the area. In the first 8 months of the fiscal year, it served an average of 8,900 people per month through the Mobile Harvest program. In the month of April, that number rose sharply to 28,272 people. The number of Mobile Harvest locations have also been increased. Visit www.FBNN.org for a complete list of July locations, or call (775) 331-3663 for site addresses.

Coverage / from page 13

Low-Income Coverage: For those with low income, there are Low-Income Subsidies (LIS) to help with the costs. This program can cover some or all of the costs of Part B and Part D. There are great resources available on Centers for Medicare & Medicare Services (CMS.gov) to guide you through whether you qualify for this program. For lower income levels, Medicaid could also help with costs. The State of Nevada has a State Pharmaceutical Assistance Program that can pay the Part D premium for people who qualify.

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Further Resources: If you would like to research more with a trusted friend or family member about the best options for you, Medicare. gov is a great resource. On this website, you can further break down the details and benefits of each plan and options. If you prefer talking to someone about your options, the Medicare Store can help you examine all of these programs as well as insurance options and make recommendations for your needs. The Medicare Store is located in both Reno and Las Vegas and is an independent, unbiased resource that can offer you personal Medicare advice at no charge. During this time, it is especially important to evaluate options and plans. It can also be helpful to bounce around your ideas with someone who sees all of the angles, which is why the Medicare Store is a great resource. July 2020 // www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com June 2020 Senior Spectrum // www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com

Alzheimer’s Foundation of America Providing Free Memory Screenings Digitally Nationwide

he Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) announced that it will be providing free, confidential memory screenings digitally through its National Memory Screening Program every Monday and Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (ET) starting July 8th. Screenings will be conducted oneon-one through secure videoconference in real-time. Appointments can be made by calling AFA at 866-232-8484. The free program is open to everyone: there are no minimum age or insurance requirements. “Memory screenings are an important part of a good health and wellness routine. We want to make sure that individuals can obtain them from the safety and comfort of their own homes,” said Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr., AFA’s president & CEO. “Being proactive about your brain health is critically important, which is why we encourage everyone to take advantage of this free service.” Memory screenings are simple, quick and noninvasive, and consist of a series of questions to gauge memory, language, thinking skills and other intellectual functions. The memory screening takes approximately 10-15 minutes and is confiden-

tial. Memory screenings are an important part of health and wellness and are similar to other routine health screenings, such as those for blood pressure, cholesterol and skin checks. Results are not a diagnosis, but a memory screening can suggest if someone should see a physician for a full evaluation. Oftentimes, memory problems can be caused by treatable or curable conditions, such as a vitamin deficiency or thyroid problem. If the memory problems are the result of something such as Alzheimer’s disease, early detection can enable the person to begin medications sooner, participate in a clinical trial and take a more active role in developing their care plan. Individuals wishing to get a free memory screening should call AFA. Appointments are required and scheduled on a firstcome, first served basis. A computer, smartphone or tablet containing a webcam is needed to participate. For more information about memory screenings, Alzheimer’s disease or support services available to help families affected by Alzheimer’s, visit AFA’s website at www.alzfdn.org or call AFA’s Helpline at 866-232-8484.

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www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com // July 2020

Recreation Programs in the Middle of the Pandemic

by Paco Lachoy, Vice Chairman Reno Senior Citizen Advisory Committee

t is already the seventh month of the year, July, mid-summer and life for us Older Nevadans has greatly changed over the last three months.

The Coronavirus pandemic swept through the area and continues to be an issue. As Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak said recently “We’re not in a post-COVID time. We’re in Paco Lachoy the middle of a COVID-19 pandemic. We’re right dead smack in the middle of it.” For seniors, it means still staying home, keeping safe and making sure a mask is worn when out and about. This time of the year, pickelball and beanbag baseball players and other athletes would be honing their skills to compete in the Reno-Tahoe Senior Summer Games – Oh wait, they are on hold at present and not happening at the end of August as they have. In fact many City of Reno Parks and Rec programs for seniors are on hold. (But there are senior oriented activities on the schedule currently at Neil Road Rec Center.) Reno Parks and Rec plans to open more programs when the Governor moves to Phase 3 of his “Nevada United” plan. Health officials are still concerned about the “vulnerable” populations (anyone with underlying health conditions of any age). Paradise Park Activity Center is scheduled to reopen when Phase 3 is implemented. With July comes the new Health and Wellness Pass for anyone with a scholarship. The Health and Wellness Pass will be added to existing scholarship recipient accounts. A notice will be mailed to all current scholarship holders. If a scholarship recipient already have a Parks and Rec card for scanning at the front desks (punch pass, quarterly pass, etc) then they won’t need to do anything else. If you don’t have a card for scanning, you will have to stop at the front desk of a Parks and Rec facility to have your photo taken and a card issued.

nior Activity card, at no cost or drop-in fee. You can still sign up to receive a scholarship, which are awarded on several levels to qualifying residents of the City of Reno. Applications are available at City Parks and Rec facilities or online at Reno.gov/ParksandRec. Mayor Hillary Schieve and Councilmembers Jenny Brekus, Naomi Duerr, Oscar Delgato, Bonnie Weber, Neoma Jardon and Vice-Mayor Devon Reese have signed a proclamation declaring the month of July 2020 as Senior Citizen Month in the City of Reno. The proclamation recognizes the Silver Anniversary of the Senior Citizen Advisory Committee (July 25, 2020) whose duty is to Advise, Advocate, Improve and Promote activities and concerns of residents to the City Council. With the present health emergency, the activities that had been planned are being postponed until a later date. Residents will be invited to City Hall when the Silver Anniversary celebration is rescheduled. Finally on a bit of a fun note: You have probably never heard of Radio Recliner (radiorecliner.com). It is billed as a pirate radio station run by retirees from the comfort of their recliners in their rooms at senior living facilities across the country. Discjockey’s (DJ’s) with names like Birdman, Miss Fancy Pants, Chicky Chick, M&M and Karaoke Cowboy just to name a few tell about their lives, their interests, family, and the music that they love in one hour shows. There is a rumor that a local group is creating something similar they want to call Rockin’ Chair Radio. They will have local seniors serve as the announcer (DJ). I will look into that and let you know more about the group next month.

If you have questions or concerns about seniors in the City of Reno you can always email the Senior Citizen Advisory ComThe Health and Wellness pass will allow scholarship holders June 2020 Senior Spectrum // www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com mittee at seniors@reno.gov. use of16 open gym programs, access to cardio workout rooms, lap and open swimming and all the activities on the former Se-

this ‘n that by Anne Vargas annevargas3@gmail.com

Let’s Pretend we’re dead…” …I suggested to my husband.

is initial reaction wasn’t exactly from the planet is nearing but it might be wise to get started enthusiastic until I explained what sooner rather than later since the older we get the less likely I had in mind. Had we adequately we are to do it. organized and pre-arranged everything Some excerpts from her book: “The only that should be taken care of in the event of thing we know for sure is that we will die one our demise??? day”…”You have collected so much wonderful stuff in your life—stuff your family and friends A few years can’t evaluate or take care of”…”What are ago I wrote a Anne Vargas you going to do with all your things when you series of Senior no longer have the strength for, or interest in, taking care of Spectrum articles about death them…“You can decide it all by yourself while you are still able preparation titled “Dying Matters”. to in order to spare your relatives those difficult decisions”… They included detailed lists of what should be done ahead of “Consider starting with just one room and allow at least a time to prepare for the inescapable eventuality of death, a week for that”. (I really like that idea and think it could work listing of resources for information, links to helpful websites for me.) and suggested reading. It also described differing experiences Three months of pandemic quarantine have afforded a lot of people we personally knew who had lost a spouse. of time to reflect and think about such things, a lot of time to In some instances there was a relatively smooth transition carefully examine our possessions and consider their meaning, to being newly alone, at least with the legalities, because value and future fate. Is there someone who would apprecimeasures had been prudently taken, important documents ate and like to have my grandmother’s pearl broach? One of completed, instructions written out, wishes made known, the key points in the book to consider is whether it still sparks etc. But in other cases, things had not been finalized or even joy. Another is “Will anyone be happier if I save this?” begun, leaving survivors to cope with massive and stressful The customary suggestion about cleaning out from anyone’s situations of every kind. point of view is to divide everything into one of 3 categories: Now I am realizing there is another very important aspect keep, toss and donate. There are many agencies that could of death planning that I did not cover in those articles. I am use and would welcome items and put them to good use but it watching a dear friend cope with the overwhelming task of is challenging during the quarantine because most places are cleaning out her parents’ home. They had lived in that house not yet able to accept items. At the time of this writing, there for sixty years, happily raising their large family. There are a are two Goodwill drop off locations that are open; the Reno lot of memories under that roof. And there is a lot of stuff. Sparks Gospel Mission Thrift store on 4th street is open and This has been not only sobering to observe, it’s been very there are a few Big Brothers & Sisters bin locales. Check the thought provoking. I don’t want our own children (or anyone) to have to deal with a houseful of our accumulated belongings internet for current changing information. Assistance League is scheduled to re-open at the end of July and hopefully other (and we seem to excel at accumulating). There is a great deal places, such as St. Vincent’s Thrift Shop, will as well. Habitat of information and advice on this subject available but I refor Humanity has a ReStore for gently used household items cently learned about a particularly wonderful book. Readers may already know about it (I am often “late to the party”) but at 1775 Kuenzli Street. Hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday but its best to call beforehand, 775-323if not, take heed: The title is The Gentle Art of Swedish Death 5511 to inquire about available space. Meanwhile items in Cleaning, by Margreta Magnusson, subtitled How to Free our house are being sorted and labeled with their eventual yourself and Your Family from a Lifetime of Clutter, which is precisely what this delightful little book is about. It‘s down-to- destination. An important part of “Dostadning” is communicating your earth, practical, full of wisdom and enjoyable to read. wishes to your friends or family, letting at least one person The author, who is Swedish, describes herself as being know where you want your treasured items to go. It’s also a somewhere between 80 and 100. She writes good idea to inform someone of your login details for banks with droll wit as she explains “Dostadning” and utilities, which can be notoriously hard to find after some(death cleaning). It is a Swedish term loosely one has passed away. defined as the process of removing unnecesDeath is not the opposite of life, but a part of it. sary things in order to make your home and Haruki Murakami your life more orderly. It is a practice highly Junein 2020 Senior Spectrum www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning is available on regarded Sweden and is // something people 17 Amazon and through Barnes & Noble. do when they feel their time for departure www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com // July 2020

Cal endar of Events

Heartown

Exhibits: July 1 - July 31 - Artemisia Studio Exhibit, Sparks Heritage Museum Cultural Center, upstairs gallery, mixed media. July 1 - July 31 - Denali Lowder Photos and Ceramics Exhibit, Depot Gallery. July 1 - August 15 - Paddles and Palettes: A Public Art Project, Sparks Heritage Museum and Cultural Center, downstairs gallery. July 1 - August 30 - Where Art and Tech Collide, Nevada Museum of Art. July 1 - February 7, 2021 - The World Stage: Contemporary Art from the Collections of Jordan D. Schnitzer and His Family Foundation, Nevada Museum of Art. July 1 - February 7, 2021 - Prototype for New Understanding, Nevada Museum of Art. ARTOWN: July 1 - Opening Night Extravaganza! for Artown, 7:30-9:30 p.m., virtual performance. The 2-hour special will air on Nevada Sports Net and then be available on Artown’s social media platforms. NSN is available over the air on channel 21; Charter channel 787. Call 775-322-1538 for details. July 2 - Gallery Show Featuring Roxane Wilson, Copper Cat Studio, 11-4 p.m., free, 775-453-0753, coppercatstudio.com. Also July 3, 7-10, 14-18, 21-25, 28-31. July 2 - Sweet Vibrations - The Jazzettes, 7-8 p.m., the Jazzettes are long-time friends Cami Thompson on percussion, Erika Paul on piano, and Julie Machado on bass - playing an eclectic mix of jazz, blues, standards, pop, rock, vintage classics. Call 775-322-4564, donation $5 recommended, renofirstmethodist.org.

tion, 775-250-1278, artspotreno.org. July 5 - Prohibition in Reno: Neighborhoods Stories, 2-3 p.m., free, 775-747-4478, historicreno.org. July 6 - Discover Drawing, 9:30-10:30 a.m., virtual event accessed via Artown’s facebook page, free, 775-322-1538. July 7 - Artistic Rendering of the Reno Space Whale, 9:3012 p.m., downtown Reno, $15, use your own art supplies, Dana Childs, 530-306-2379, www.dlauren.net. July 7 - The Z Bar in the Heart of Midtown, 5:30-11 p.m., Rock Band Iron Snake, free, 775-348-1723, https://zbarreno.com/ July 7 - Imagine A Cowboy Life, story-telling and cowboy poetry with Larry Maurice, 6-7 p.m., free, 775-832-4130, www.washoecountylibrary.us. July 7 - UNR Historic District: Neighborhoods Stories, 6-7 p.m., free, 775-747-4478, historicreno.org. July 7 - Summer Dinner Concert Series, Milton Merlos, Wild River Grille, patio, 6-9 p.m., free, 775-284-7455, wildrivergrille.com. July 7 - Music and Chanting with Shanti Shanti - outdoors, 7:30-9 p.m., Yoga Loka, 6135 Lakeside Dr., #121, Reno, 775337-2990, $12, yogalokareno.com. July 8 - Drakulich Arts Foundation Presents VAP Veterans’ Art Project, 1-4 p.m., American Legion Post 30, $5. Also July 15, 22, and 29th.

July 4 - Newlands: Neighborhood Stories, 9-10 a.m., learn about one of Reno’s oldest neighborhoods, free, 775-747-4478, historicreno.org.

July 9 - The Nevada We Love , 5-7 p.m., Lake Tahoe photographer Martin Gollery, Buenos Grill, free, 775-787-8229, www.buenosgrill.com/

July 4 - Downtown Reno Mural Tour, 10-12 p.m., $10 dona-

July 9 - Cultural Crossroads West: Neighborhood Stories, 6-7 p.m., free, 775-747-4478, historicreno.org.

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July 10 - Virtual Art Afternoon: Workshop and Social for Seniors, instructor Carol Raphel shares perspectives of Museum’s collections for exhibitions, 1-3 p.m., Nevada Museum of Art. July 10 - Hot World Music and Cool Jazz, Susan Mazer, jazz harpist, and Dallas Smith, woodwinds performer, 2-3:30 p.m., free, 775-784-8053, olli.unr.edu. July 10 - Aria Virtual Ukulele Concert, 6-7 p.m., virtual event, broadcast on the Artown website, free, 775-829-2742, ariaschoolofmusicandart.org. July 11 - 6th Annual Lavender Day, Wilbur D. May Arboretum at Rancho San Rafael Park, 9-1 p.m., free, 508-208-5259, https://www.mayarboretumsociety.org/events.html. July 11 - Bricks & Stones: Neighborhood Stories, 9-10 a.m., free, 775-747-4478, historicreno.org. July 11 - Gordon Avenue Artists, 9-6 p.m., free, 775-313-6033, https://www.facebook. com/5artists/ Also July 12, 10-5 p.m. July 11 - Midtown Mural Tour Southern Route, 10-12 p.m., two hour, docent-led tour, Midtown’s street art, meets at Bibo Freddo Gelato on Center Street, $10, 775-250-1278, artspotreno.org. July 11 - Art + Modern Life, weekly series, 2-4 p.m., hosted by The Lilley Director Vivian Zavataro and Tony Manfredi, Ex. Dir., Nevada Arts Council, free, 775-784-6682, https://www. tlqonline.com/ Also July 18, and 25th. July 11 - Summer Dinner Concert Series, Tany Jane, Wild River Grille, patio, 6-9 p.m., free, 775-284-7455, wildrivergrille.com. July 11 - First Saturday Lecture Series, Sparks Heritage Museum Cultural Center, Robin Holabird, on her book Around the World in 80 Movies.

July 14 - Mansions on the Bluff/Court Street: Neighborhood Stories, 6-7 p.m., free, 775-747-4478, historicreno.org. July 14 - Summer Dinner Concert Series, Eric Andersen, Wild River Grille, patio, 6-9 p.m., free, 775-284-7455. wildrivergrille.com. July 14 - Sweet Vibrations - Nefarious Horde Street Band, 7-8 p.m., 9 piece big brass band, 775-322-4564, $5 donation recommended, renofirstmethodist.org. July 15 - Literary Reno: Neighborhood Stories, 6-7 p.m., free, 775-747-4478, historicreno.org. July 15 - Sweet and Lethal Burlesque, 8:30-10 p.m., The Polo Lounge, $8-$10, 775-996-3891, http://www.sweetandlethalreno. com. July 15 - Discover Banjo, 9:3010:30 a.m., virtual event on Artown’s facebook page, David Hayes, ages 6-12, supply list: Old sock, scissor, markers, glue, googly eyes (optional), cotton balls/pompoms (optional), free, 775-322-1538.

David Hayes

July 16 - Discover Poetry, 9:30-10:30 a.m., Andy Butter, virtual event on Artown’s facebook page, free, 775-322-1538. July 16 - Women’s Art Retreat-Daytripper Getaway, 10-4 p.m., retreat at Zephyr Cove, $75, 530-306-2379, https://www. dlauren/net/productpage/daytripper-recharge-and-relax-women-s-artretreat-lake-tahoe. July 16 - Virtual Art Discussion, from the comfort of your home, 4-5 p.m., Nevada Museum of Art. July 16 - Third Thursday Artists’ Receptions, Sparks Heritage Museum and Cultural Center and the Depot, 4-9 p.m.

July 12 - Paint Wars, 12-3 p.m., a live painting event where artists battle head to head, free, 651-361-0757, jcharboneau.com.

July 17 - Free Concert: Charlie Musselwhite, 6:30-9:30 p.m., Nugget Event Center.

July 12 - Movie Footprints in Reno: Neighborhood Stories, 2-3 p.m., Taste of Chicago, 180 E. 1st. Street, free, 775-747-4478, historicreno.org.

July 18 - Xanadu Water Marbling Scarves, 10-3 p.m., Copper Cat Studio, $55, 775-453-0753, coppercatstudiio.com.

July 14 - Discover Augmented Reality, 9:30-10:30 a.m., virtual event on Artown’s facebook page, construction paper, scissors, glue, coloring utensil, Tyler Brownlow-Calkin, free, 775-3221538.

July 18 - Public Art and Playa Art Tour, 10-12 p.m., docent-led tour, meets in front of the Believe sculpture at City Plaza, $10, 775-250-1278, artspotreno.org. (ARTOWN page 20)

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www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com // July 2020

ARTOWN / from page 19 July 18 - Take My Hand, A Music Video Premiere, 6-7 p.m., Reno’s Theatrical Dance Company, and Adriana and the WildFlowers, $20, music video, 775-443-5611, keelycobb.com/ aroundthestage. July 18 - Summer Dinner Concert Series, Eric Stangeland, Wild River Grille, patio, 6-9 p.m., free, 775-284-7455, wildrivergrille.com. July 19 - Mansions on the Bluff/California Ave.: Neighborhood Stories, 2-3 p.m., free, 775-747-4478, historicreno.org. July 19 - Sunday Music Brunch, 10-2 p.m., Chez Louie. July 21 - Powning’s Addition: Neighborhood Stories, 6-7 p.m., free, 775-747-4478, historicreno.org. July 21 - Summer Dinner Concert Series, Mel Wade and Gia, Wild River Grille, patio, 6-9 p.m., free, 775-284-7455, wildrivergrille.com. July 21 - Sweet Vibrations - Velvet Duo Pat Esters & John Palmore, 7-8 p.m., 775-322-4564, $5 donation recommended, renofirstmethodist.org. July 23 - Virtual Downtown Reno Bomb Shelter Tour, 1-2 p.m., free, 775-327-8327, washoecountylibrary.us. July 23 - Virtual Art Discussion, 4-5 p.m., Nevada Museum of Art. July 23 - Downtown Sparks: Neighborhood Stories, 6-7 p.m., free, 775-747-4478, http://historicreno.org/ July 23 - Sweet Vibrations - Kyle Rea, 7-8 p.m., 775-322-4564, $5 donation recommended, renofirstmethodist.org.

Show also July 26, 10-4 p.m. July 25 - Dynamic Duos, A Night of Broadway Duets, 8-9 p.m., $12, McKinley Arts and Culture Center, 775-229-6447, https://dynamicduosduets.ticketleap.com/dynamic-duos/ July 26 - Sunday Music Brunch, 10-2 p.m., Nevada Museum of Art, Chez Louie. July 26 - Wendy Red Star on The World Stage (Virtual), 12-1 p.m., $10, hosted on Zoom, register by June 25. July 26 - Parsons/Mills Architecture: Neighborhood Stories, 2-3 p.m., free, 775-747-4478, http://historicreno.org/ July 28 - Circle/Southridge Drive: Neighborhood Stories, 6-7 p.m., free, 775-747-4478, http://historicreno.org/ July 28 - Sweet Vibrations Gary Lynn Floyd, 7-8 p.m., 775-322-4564, $5 donation recommended, renofirstmethodist.org. July 29 - Discover Trombone, Reno Phil, virtual event, via Artown’s facebook page, 9:30 a.m., day listed, 775-322-1538, free. July 29 - Nevada Reads Virtual Book Club: Nomadland, 5:30-7 p.m., free, 775-327-8327, washoecountylibrary.us.

July 24 - Summer Dinner Concert Series, The Socks, Wild River Grille, patio, 6-9 p.m., free, 775-284-7455, wildrivergrille. com.

July 29 - Country Club Acres: Neighborhood Stories, 6-7 p.m., free, 775-7474478, http://historicreno.org/

July 25 - Midtown Mural Tour Northern Route, 10-12 p.m., $10, highlights Midtown’s street art, meets at Bibo Freddo Gelato on Center Street, $10, 775-250-1278, artspotreno.org.

July 29 - Sweet and Lethal Burlesque, Home Means Nevada, 8:30-10:30 p.m., The Polo Lounge, $8-$10, 775-996-3891, http://www. sweetandlethalreno.com.

July 25 - One World Lantern Fest, 5-9 p.m., commemorate friends and loved ones past and present, wishes and dreams, Sparks Marina.

July 30 - Historic High Rises in Reno: Neighborhood Stories, 6-7 p.m., free, 775-7474478, http://his toricreno.org/

July 25 - Greater Reno Stamp & Cover Show, 10-6 p.m., National Bowling Stadium, free, 775-232-4760, renostamp.org.

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Gary Lynn Floyd

Coronavirus Resource Guide1

Generation Boomer // GenerationBoomerMagazine.com

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2 Coronavirus Resource Guide

Generation Boomer // GenerationBoomerMagazine.com

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Coronavirus Resource Guide3

Generation Boomer // GenerationBoomerMagazine.com

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4 Coronavirus Resource Guide

Generation Boomer // GenerationBoomerMagazine.com

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Coronavirus Resource Guide5

Generation Boomer // GenerationBoomerMagazine.com

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Tinseltown Talks: By Nick Thomas

“

Fran Drescher and “ The Nanny“ Reunion Reassembling a dozen cast members from a popular 90s TV sitcom could pose a challenge for any network, much less an individual. But it was a task Fran Drescher relished. As the nasal voiced star of the hit CBS series “The Nanny,” Drescher co-created and co-produced the show along with then-husband Peter Marc Jacobson.

Peter came up with the reunion idea for fans stuck at home during isolation and I said right away let’s do it if everyone in the cast is available,” said Drescher from her home in Malibu.

Unable to meet collectively in a studio due to quarantine restrictions, all 12 credited actors who appeared in the 1993 pilot agreed to participate from their home in April in a “Pandemic Table Read” via a Zoom split-screen reading of that first episode, interspersed with cuts from the original broadcast. In addition to the cast, Jacobson narrated the reading while Ann Hampton Callaway – composer and performer of the show’s catchy theme – opened with a lively rendition on piano. Drescher admits the reunion brought memories flooding back.

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“To see everybody and to hear the words again made me miss the show and everyone in it so much. It gave me a lift during this terrible period. Hopefully, it did the same for fans.” Although nearly 20 years have passed since “The Nanny” first aired, Drescher says she still remembers the pilot and the live studio audience. “They didn’t know the characters or what to expect from us,” she recalled. “But they quickly got it and were soon anticipating laughing almost before we said the lines. They had never really experienced an outrageous character like Nanny Fran Fine that incorporated elements of Cinderella, Mary Poppins, and The Sound of Music’s Maria.” Several years after “The Nanny” ended production, Drescher was diagnosed with uterine cancer. She completely recovered,

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Drescher / from page 26

Watch the YouTub reunion at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C3a6KuP1X14

but the experience steered her toward a second career to promote a “whole-body approach to wellness” and form the Cancer Schmancer Movement in 2007 (see www.cancerschmancer.org).

and some peppermint oil which smells nice and has some antimicrobial properties,” she said. Despite the forced home confinement, Drescher took it largely in her stride. “I happen to like staying at home, so I don’t get cabin fever easily,” says Drescher who currently stars in the

More recently, Drescher produced a series of videos called “Corona Care 4 You” featuring interviews with health experts during the pandemic. A longtime advocate of natural foods and products, Drescher was isolated at home for weeks during the spring like much of the country and used the time to catch up on TV shows, writing, and cleaning. As Nanny Fine, her famous TV character might not have scolded Niles the Butler for using corrosive cleaning products to sanitize the Sheffield’s home in which the 90s Nanny series was set, but today she probably would. “I use 65 percent alcohol in a spray bottle with a little water

At age 62, Fran Drescher is celebrating that she has been cancer free for 20-years! NBC comedy “Indebted.” But for the actress and her former husband with whom she remains close friends, their collaboration on “The Nanny” remains a career milestone. “This was our baby and we remember everything about it.”

June 2020 Senior Spectrum // www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com // July 2020

BIGGEST Little City by Harry Spencer

Space Memories

ike most Americans, I watched the recent SpaceX/NASA launch at Cape Canaveral, Florida because I have a strong family connection with the Cape that Harry Spencer I will explain later. This year’s launch looked very different than previous ones as the astronauts’ space suits were trim and form-fitting and the capsule itself had a slightly cartoonish look. The family connection I mentioned occurred when John Glenn made his initial trip around the world on February 20, 1962 and put the USA in first place in the space race. He was the first U.S. astronaut to orbit the Earth in his Mercury-Atlas 6 Friendship 7 Spacecraft. He circled the earth three times in five hours and traveled more than 81,000 miles averaging 17,500 miles per hour. Remembering this flight is significant to me because my father personally packed John Glenn’s chute. When Glenn reentered the Earth’s atmosphere Glenn’s capsule became a flaming meteor as the protective tiles peeled off. The outside of the capsule heated to 3,000 degrees. The only thing that saved Glenn’s life was his parachute opening in time. Before he went to his debriefing he said, “I’ve got to thank ‘Chips’ personally.” He went over and shook my father’s hand.

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The name ‘Chips’ came from the twenty years my father spent in the Coast Guard. It was his first career. He had risen to the position of Chief Carpenter and was a master craftsman when it came to finish cabinet work on Coast Guard ships. His workshop was usually covered in wood shavings, hence the name ‘Chips’ was bestowed upon him. Following his career in the Coast Guard, he did several years for the Post Office Department before the Cape Canaveral job came open. The reason my father qualified to head up the parachute department was that while he was in the Coast Guard he had attended a special program in parachute packing in 1936 at Lakehurst, New Jersey (the scene a year later of the Hindenburg crash). Graduation from the parachute packing program consisted of packing your own chute and jumping out of a small blimp. We used to have shirts made of the torn parachutes as my mother was an expert seamstress. The material for the shirts came from chutes that didn’t open on the practice dummies or were torn in some manner. Glenn himself was 40-years-old when he manned the Friendship 7. He was born in Cambridge, Ohio on July 18, 1921. He graduated from Muskingum College with a Degree in Engineering. After the United States entered World War II, Glenn joined the Naval Aviation Cadet Program. Upon graduation, he was commissioned in the Marine Corps. He flew numerous combat missions during World War II and during the Korean conflict. After service in Korea, Glenn attended the Naval Test Pilot School. He served as project officer on a number of aircraft after his graduation. While serving as a project officer, he set a transcontinental speed record by flying from Los Angles to New York in 3 hours and 23 minutes. It was the first transcontinental flight to average supersonic speeds. The NASA selection committee for Project Mercury recognized that the unusual conditions associated with spaceflight are similar to those experienced by military test pilots. Because of his military flight experience, Glenn was selected as one of seven Project Mercury astronauts in 1959. At the start of 1962, America was far behind in the space race. The previous year, the Soviet Union had flown two manned orbital flights. The success of Glenn’s February mission was critical. After the completion of his flight, astronaut Glenn became a national hero. He was awarded the Space Congressional Medal of Honor by President Kennedy. Glenn’s spacecraft the Friendship 7 (which is about the size of a phone booth), currently rests near the Wright Brothers’ original Wright Flyer airplane and Charles Lindbergh’s Spirit of St. Louis in the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C. ‘Chips’ real name was Henry K. Spencer. In addition to packing the John Glenn chute, he came up with the idea of encircling spacecraft capsules with a flotation collar to prevent them from capsizing when the hatch door is opened after splashdown as had occurred on July 21, 1962 with the Liberty Bell 7 capsule. Harry Spencer is a 75-year resident of Nevada and a freelance writer living in Reno.

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Photo Contest Showcases the Richness of Aging Well in America

or its 2020 Age+Action Virtual Conference, the National Council on Aging (NCOA) invited photographers and artists from around the country to submit work exploring the artistic expression of Aging Well for All—how older adults are making the most of their longevity. “The winning entries beautifully showcase the richness of aging well in America,” said Ken Bracht, NCOA Chief Marketing and Business Development Officer. “The judges were amazed by the quality of all submissions—totaling more than 1,000 images—from both award-winning professionals and self-taught photographers.” The winning photographs and artists were announced at

NCOA’s 2020 Age+Action Virtual Conference, June 8-11, the first national gathering of aging services professionals in the

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COVID-19 era. The 4-day online event featured 150+ speakers and 100+ sessions designed to help community-based organizations better serve older adults. First Place went to A Loving Touch, submitted by Allan Mestel of Longboat Key, FL. The black-and-white photo features an older interracial couple in an intimate moment. “The judges chose this photo because of its artistry, poignancy, sensitivity, and dignity,” Bracht said. “I’m stunned I won first place,” Mestel said.

Second Place was awarded to Grandma Quality Time from Michael Paras of Maplewood, NJ. It’s a Norman Rockwell scene of a wide-eyed toddler and her grandmother enjoying a chocolate shake and each other. View the NCOA online gallery at: http://ncoagallery.org/ link/AgingWellforAll.

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Simply Smart Travel By Jeff and Virginia Orenstein

Vancouver, British Columbia

ancouver, British Columbia is a great trip for Simply Smart Travelers. Canada’s Pacific coast gem of a city is a cosmopolitan and approachable metropolis that is overflowing with great vistas, good food and friendly people. Vancouver, Canada’s major gateway to the Orient, is strategically located where the mountains of the coast range meet the Pacific Ocean and form a picturesque and busy harbor. The town has been a center of trade and transportation since the First Nations (the Canadian term for Native Americans) era. The 1858 discovery of gold in the Yukon and the completion of the Canadian Pacific Transcontinental railroad in 1887 launched Vancouver on an urban trajectory that has transformed it into a world-class city with a metropolitan population of 2.5 million that is still growing. High-rise condominiums are sprouting up all around town because both Canadians and foreigners find the town such a pleasant place to live. Not surprisingly, throngs of visitors flock there as well. Many Americans fly to Vancouver to catch a cruise ship to

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Canada Place is a favorite place to walk or cycle because it offers fabulous views of the harbor, and is close to downtown attractions. Credit: Jeff Orenstein, Simply Smart Travel

Alaska and see little besides the Canada Place cruise port and their hotel. That is a missed opportunity because the city is full of night life, gorgeous sights and attractions that should not be missed. This cosmopolitan mix of east and west has become a delightful cultural crossroads with a mixture of food, cultures, sights and sounds that will delight even the most urbane traveler. If your travels take you through Vancouver, plan to stay for a while and explore it. Better yet, plan a visit and stay a while. Before You Go! Check out • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w7EyUJSjFko • www.tourismvancouver.com • www.hellobc.com • www.youtube.com/watch?v=hU6a-b6ADSE • https://www.webcamtaxi.com/en/canada/british-columbia/vancouver-harbour.html • https://www.goandroam.com/webcams/canada/vancouver/ • https://www.vanaqua.org/visit/live-cams-penguin • https://www.vanaqua.org/visit/live-cams-underwater-otter

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• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N4YmlosHNpA July 2020June // www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com 2020 Senior Spectrum // www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com

Getting There: Vancouver is a transportation crossroads. • Vancouver International Airport (YVR), is 9 miles from the city center. It is served by 66 air carriers and offers service to 121 destinations in Asia, Canada and the U.S. It is connected to the city by the Skytrain rail system. • By train, the transcontinental Canadian calls on Vancouver thrice weekly in summer and twice weekly in winter. Amtrak runs 4 times daily from Portland, Oregon. There is also train service from Via Rail and The Rocky Mountaineer private train. • By car, Vancouver is on Canada Route 99, the northern extension of U.S. Interstate 5, 143 miles from Seattle and the TransCanada Highway.

The Vancouver Rowing Club is one of Stanley Park’s attractions. Credit: Jeff Orenstein, Simply Smart Travel

• Downtown Vancouver is a major cruise ship port with frequent sailings to Alaska from May through October and cruises to Hawaii, California and elsewhere year-round. When You Are There: • See Canada Place and the waterfront. • Take a carriage tour of Stanley Park’s lush foliage and spectacular harbor and skyline views. • Enjoy the architecture, food and drink in the Gastown District. If You Only Have Two or Three Days: Must-sees for a short stay are: • The FlyOver Canada flight simulator ride at Canada Place. • Dinners at Glowbal Restaurant and Gotham Steakhouse. • The Lost Souls Walking Tour by Forbidden Vancouver. (Travel page 34)

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Smart Travel / from page 33 If You Have Several Days, enjoy: • A daytrip by ferry to Victoria on Vancouver Island. • Walking Granville Island (market and restaurants). • A daytrip to Whistler and nearby BC mountains by car or bus. • Taking a whale watching tour in season. • Taking a floatplane tour. • Hiking/skiing the Grouse Mountain Resort in North Vancouver. This Destination At A Glance Over 50 Advantage: Great hotels, restaurants and shops. Favorable U.S. dollar exchange. Mobility Level: Low to moderate. Most sidewalks have curb cuts at intersections and all Vancouver bus, SeaBus, SkyTrain and West Coast Express trains are accessible. Getting Around: Leave your car at the hotel. Downtown is walkable and the public transportation is excellent. A transit pass in Vancouver covers buses, SkyTrain and SeaBus services. When To Go: Anytime. Even though it is located north of Seattle, Vancouver is the warmest part of Canada, with an average winter high temperature in the 40s, and delightful spring and fall and summers in the 70s. The popular Vancouver International Jazz Festival brings crowd in July. Where To Stay: The St. Regis Hotel is a delightful New York style heritage boutique hotel within an attentive staff and fine rooms. It is a 15-minute walk to Canada Place. The Fairmont Pacific Rim Hotel at Canada Place is popular for those seeking an upscale experience and is convenient to the cruise port.

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The Canada Place cruise ship terminal and convention center offers beautiful harbor vistas and is a beehive of activity in downtown Vancouver. Credit: Jeff Orenstein, Simply Smart Travel

Senior Advantage: Great museums, eclectic dining, interesting attractions. Special Travel Interests: Cruises to Alaska, whale watching, watersports.

Float planes fly out of Vancouver harbor, offering convenient and frequent transportation to Victoria, Port Angeles, Washington and elsewhere around the region. Credit: Jeff Orenstein, Simply Smart Travel June 2020 Senior Spectrum // www.SeniorSpectrumNewspapers.com

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