Survey: Family Members, Caregivers and Swindlers are Top Financial Exploiters of Older Americans Over Half of Experts Say Seniors Do Not Have Right Resources to Pick Financial Advisors; Most Effective Ways to Stop Victimization Seen as Face-to-Face Education and Help.
Investment fraud and financial exploitation targeting older Americans is a major problem today and most seniors do not have the information they need to pick a financial advisor to help them protect their savings, according to a major new survey of 756 experts conducted by the Investor Protection Trust (IPT) and Investor Protection Institute (IPI) in response to questions posed by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). The online poll of a diverse group of state securities regulators, financial planners, health care professionals, social workers, adult protective services, law enforcement officials, elder law attorneys, academics and others found that about two thirds (65 percent) of those surveyed deal with elderly victims of investment fraud/financial exploitation. Three out of four experts said that such swindles are a "very serious" problem in America today and an even greater number – 78 percent – said older Americans are "very vulnerable" to invest-
ment fraud/financial exploitation. Other key IPT/IPI survey findings: Most common abuses? The top three financial exploitation problems identified by the experts are: (1) "theft or diversion of funds or property by family members" (79 percent); (2) "theft or diversion of funds or property by caregivers" (49 percent); and (3) "financial scams perpetrated by strangers" (47 percent). What works? As for the "financial education, counseling, or personal finance management programs … best tailored to the unique financial needs of older Americans and their families or caregivers," the experts identified the following: (1) "programs delivered by local professionals, such as caregivers, adult protective services workers, law enforcement agencies, and health care professionals" (71 percent); (2) "programs delivered through senior centers and other facilities catering to older Americans" (65 percent); and (3) "programs delivered by senior oriented national and local organizations" (55 percent). Don Blandin, president and CEO, Investor Protection Trust, said: "Our new survey shows that financial swindles targeting older Americans are a bigger problem today than ever before and that seniors need more help.
September Contents
page 3 - Financial Exploiters of Older Americans
page 4 - Opinion: Working Across Party Lines to Restore the Lake Tahoe Basin
page 5 - Opinion: Protecting Medicare
page 6 - Public Alerted to be Watchful of Scamms page 6 - Home Health Addresses Medicare Cuts Every Issue
page 15 - Eydie Scher - Excerpts page 16 - Calendar
page 17 - Eclectic Observer
page 21 - Alzheimer’s Team Tops Facebook Likes
page 22 - Top 10 Things About the Affordable Care Act page 23 - Tinseltown Talks
page 24 - Biggest Little City page 26 - this ‘n that page 27 - Crossword
page 29 - Community Resources page 30 - Be Italian for 2 Days! page 31 - Seniors 4 Travel
Health
page 10 - CMS: Medicare Covers Ambulance Services page 12 - The Power of Adult Play: Dr. Lawrence J. Weiss, Ph.D., Center for Healthy Aging page 14 - Ophthalmology: Dr. Michael Fischer, M.D.
Financial
page 7 - Proper Planning Protects Your Vacation Home: Bradley B. Anderson, Anderson, Dorn, Rader - Wealth Advisors
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Publishers: Chris & Connie McMullen Senior Spectrum is a monthly publication dedicated to inform, serve, and entertain. Publication of advertising contained does not constitute endorsement. Signed columns are the opinion of the writers, and not necessarily the opinion of the publishers. Copyrighted publication. All rights reserved. September • 2013 • 3
Opinion
Working Across Party Lines to Restore the Lake Tahoe Basin
U.S. Senator Dean Heller
Mark Twain once described Lake Tahoe as “the fairest picture the whole earth Sen. Dean Heller affords,” and I could not agree more. As many of you know, I’m from Carson City, so I grew up with Lake Tahoe in my backyard. No matter how many times I come over Spooner Summit, I’m always in awe when I catch that first sight of the lake. Any visitor to Lake Tahoe can attest to its beauty and the need to preserve this
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valuable resource for generations to come. Preventing catastrophic wildfires, stopping invasive species, increasing lake clarity and providing for critical infrastructure are important tools that will help foster the longterm ecological health of the Tahoe Basin. Responsibility to protect this natural treasure belongs to Nevada and California, which is why I was pleased to work across party lines with Senators Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Harry Reid (D-NV), and Barbara Boxer (D-CA) by introducing the Lake Tahoe Restoration Act of 2013.
Our bill will prompt significant investments in the health of Lake Tahoe and the Tahoe Basin by authorizing $415 million over 10 years to improve and protect one of Nevada’s finest treasures. The fact that Senators from both California and Nevada were able to come together to protect Lake Tahoe sends a strong message. I am proud to call Northern Nevada my home and certainly look forward to working with everyone who cares about Lake Tahoe to secure a healthy and prosperous future for the Lake and the entire Basin. To contact Sen. Heller,
write to: Bruce Thompson Federal Building, 400 S. Virginia St., Ste. 738, Reno, NV 89501, or fax: (775) 6865729. In Carson City write to: 305 North Carson St., Ste. 201, Carson City, NV 89701.
Opinion U.S. Sen. Harry Reid Throughout my tenure in Congress, I have been an advocate for Nevada’s seniors and I am Sen. Harry Reid committed to ensuring they are provided with affordable access to the prescription drugs they need in order to stay healthy. I am proud that, as a result of the Affordable Care Act, over 6.6 million seniors and people with disabilities on Medicare have saved over $7 billion on prescription drugs. In Nevada, 25,000 seniors received a $250 tax free rebate in 2010, when they
Protecting Medicare reached the Medicare coverage gap known as the “donut hole.” Since the health reform law was enacted, Nevadans on Medicare have saved almost $41 million on prescription drugs in the donut hole – an average of $611 per beneficiary last year alone. They can expect even more savings when the donut hole is closed completely in 2020, putting more money back into the pockets of Nevada’s seniors. And there is more good news: aside from Medicare beneficiaries nationwide saving $7 billion on prescription drugs, Medicare Part D premiums are projected to
remain stable in 2014 for the fourth year in a row, up just $1 from $30 in 2013, to $31 next year. And the Part D deductible is projected to be even lower next year than it is now, falling from $325 to $310. These projections help to ensure that more and more of Nevada’s seniors can rest assured that they will have access to the prescription drugs they need to stay healthy. Protecting Medicare is among my highest priorities as a U.S. Senator. We must continue to do all we can to make sure that the benefits seniors have earned, and on which they depend, are guar-
anteed, so that those who have spent a lifetime contributing to our nation can retire in dignity. I remain committed to fighting for Nevada’s seniors and working to develop programs that will allow those in their golden years to live independently and enjoy an active, secure lifestyle. For more information, or to receive the Reid Report ENewsletter, visit Senator Harry Reid’s website at http://www.reid.senate.gov or write Sen. Reid at the Bruce R. Thompson Federal Bldg., 400 S. Virginia Street, Ste. 902, Reno, NV 89501, or fax: 775-686-5757.
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Public alerted to be watchful for scammers asking to wire bail money for a friend or relative
The Northern Nevada Cyber Center and Washoe County Sheriff's Office are alerting the community of a possible fraudulent scam targeting consumers pocketbooks. The Washoe County Sheriff's Office Detention Facility has seen an increase in calls by individuals report-
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ing they were notified that a friend or family member had been arrested and needed money for bail. These scams usually involve someone claiming to be a representative of a law enforcement agency, a friend of the alleged arrestee, or someone posing as the person arrested. They often ask
for wire transfers through services such as Western Union. “We encourage the public to be cautious and always verify requests such as these.” The Sheriff's Office does not accept services such as Western Union and does not notify family of arrests. “Always be cautious and
conduct any transactions directly through governmental agencies or licensed bail bonds companies.” To report an incident of fraud, contact your local law enforcement agency or report the incident to the Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov.
Home Health Leaders Address Medicare Cuts The National Association for Home Care and Hospice (NAHC), Visiting Nurse Associations of America (VNAA), and Partnership for Quality Home Healthcare (Partnership), say a new analyses demonstrates the impact the proposed Home Health Prospective Payment System (HHPPS) rule issued by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is projected to have on the nation's home health delivery system, and 3.5 million Medicare home health beneficiaries, if finalized in its current form. The proposed rule cuts Medicare payments for home health by an unprecedented 14 percent over the next four years. Compounding these proposed payment reductions are $72.5 billion in Medicare cuts made since 2009. Community representatives and patient advocates have expressed concern that the proposed cuts to Medicare home health funding will directly impact vulnerable patients and small businesses, especially those in rural and underserved areas.
Proper Planning Protects Your Vacation Home Brought to you by Bradley B. Anderson Anderson, Dorn, & Rader, Ltd.
A vacation home is a special place for a family. You buy a beach house or a cabin at the lake with visions of the long, lazy summer days and holidays you’ll spend with your children…and eventually your grandchildren. You dream of the memories you’ll make, and you look forward to passing the home on to your children and grandchildren so that they can do the same. Sadly, without a welldrafted estate plan, these hopes can turn to disappointment. For instance, if you leave behind a Will, your estate will be subject to probate.
The American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys www.probatebusters.com • blog.wealth-counselors.com
Probate is the court process of changing the title from a deceased person to the rightful beneficiaries. Depending upon the state, it may be expensive or time consuming. If the property is located in another state, it would necessitate yet another proceeding in that other state, called ancillary probate. This is a separate probate proceeding, complete with its own timetable, fees, and paperwork that must be completed in the state where the vacation property is located before the property can be distributed to the beneficiaries named in your Will. Probate, including ancillary
probate, can be avoided by establishing a revocable trust that then includes your vacation property. This strategy can save your loved ones time, money, and hassle, because property held by a trust does not have to go through probate. Even if you avoid probate, how can you ensure that your vacation home will remain in your family – and that it will not become a source of conflict for your children and grandchildren? Consider a common scenario: Your daughter is financially stable and looks forward to using the property on a regular basis. Your son, however,
has creditors to worry about and sees the cash value of your vacation home as a means for paying off his debt. In this situation, leaving the property to your children in equal shares invites conflict. If your son, already in debt, decides that he cannot afford the maintenance and taxes on the property, he could decide to go to court to force its sale. This might leave him with enough money to pay his creditors, but it would be the end of your dream, leaving your daughter and your grandchildren without a family vacation home full of cherished (Vacation page 8)
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Vacation / page 7 memories. One way around this problem might be to leave the vacation home to your daughter while leaving other assets of equivalent value to your son. Even if both of your children want to keep, maintain, and use the vacation home – and you should ask them about their wishes – it is wise to include specific terms for its use in your estate plan. Another option is, at your death, to have your revocable trust keep the vacation home and sufficient funds for its upkeep in a continuing trust. That way, your son in the example above, could not force the sale of the vacation home to pay off his creditors. An experienced estate planning attorney can help you explore all your options for keeping your vacation home
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in the family, protecting it from threats like creditors and divorce, and for including it in a plan to minimize any estate or gift taxes you may owe. With a solid plan, your vacation home can continue to be a source of peace, relaxation, and fond family memories for years to come. The Law Firm of Anderson, Dorn & Rader, Ltd. is devoted exclusively to estate planning. We are members of the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys and offer guidance and advice to our clients in every area of estate planning. We offer comprehensive and personalized estate planning consultations. For more information, please contact us at (775) 823-9455 or visit us at www.wealth-counselors.com.
September • 2013 • 9
How Medicare Covers Ambulance Services David Sayen
I certainly hope you never need an ambulance, but at some point you may have to take one during a medical emergency.
I
f you have Original Medicare, your Part B (medical insurance) covers ambulance services to or from a hospital, criticalaccess hospital, or skilled nursing facility only when other transportation could endanger your health. In some cases, Medicare
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David Sayen Regional Administrator, Medicare Region 9
may cover ambulance services from your home or a medical facility to get care for a health condition that requires you to be transported only by ambulance. Medicare may also cover ambulance services to or from a dialysis facility if you have End-Stage Renal Disease and other transportation could jeopardize your health. Emergency ambulance transportation is provided after you’ve had a sudden medical emergency and every second counts to pre-
vent your health from getting worse. Here are some examples of when Medicare might cover emergency ambulance transportation: · You’re in severe pain, bleeding, in shock, or unconscious; · You need oxygen or other skilled medical treatment during transportation. Medicare will only cover ambulance services to the nearest appropriate medical facility that’s able to give you the care you need. If you choose to be transported to a
facility farther away, Medicare’s payment will be based on the charge to the closest appropriate facility. If no local facilities are able to give you the care you need, Medicare will help pay for transportation to the nearest facility outside your local area that’s able to give you the care you need. Medicare may pay for an air ambulance (airplane or helicopter) if your condition requires immediate and rapid transportation that a ground carrier can’t provide, and your pickup location is
Medicare / page 10 trator for Arizona, California, Nevada, Hawaii, and the Pacific Territories. You can always get
either: 1.) hard to get to by ground transportation; or 2.) long distances or heavy traffic could keep you from getting care quickly. Non-emergency ambulance transportation may be covered when you need it to diagnose or treat your condition and any other mode of transportation could endanger your health. In some cases, Medicare covers limited non-emergency ambulance transportation if you have a statement from your doctor or other care provider stating that ambulance transportation is necessary due to your medical condition. For example, Medicare may cover a nonemergency ambulance for people confined to bed if other types of transport could endanger their health. If the ambulance company believes Medicare may not pay for non-emergency service because it isn’t medically necessary or reasonable, they must give you an Advance Beneficiary Notice (ABN). The ABN has option boxes that allow you to choose whether you want the service and explains your responsibility to pay for it. If
answers to your Medicare questions by calling 1-800MEDICARE (1-800-6334227).
you indicate that you’ll pay for the service and sign the ABN, you’re responsible for paying if Medicare doesn’t. You may be asked to pay at the time of service. If you’re in a situation that requires an ambulance company to give you an ABN and you refuse to sign it, the company will decide whether to take you by ambulance. If the company decides to send you in an ambulance even though you refused to sign, you may still be responsible for paying for the trip if Medicare doesn’t pay. You won’t be asked to sign an ABN in an emergency situation. You can appeal if Medicare doesn’t pay for the ambulance trip and you believe it should have. If Medicare covers your trip, it will pay 80 percent of the Medicare-approved amount after you’ve met the Part B deductible ($147 in 2013). You pay the remaining 20 percent. How do you know if Medicare didn’t pay for your ambulance? You’ll get a Medicare Summary Notice explaining why Medicare didn’t pay. David Sayen is Medicare’s regional adminis-
September • 2013 • 11
Adding Life to Years
The Power of Adult Play Dr. Larry Weiss Center for Healthy Aging
I, like most adults, have placed work as more important and separate from anything resembling play. They are mutually exclusive! However, since I have left the university and have my own non-profit, I have adopted play as a crucial part of my work. Let’s explore the power of play, first with children and then as adults. The pediatric research literature on childhood play cites that play is crucial for social, emotional and cognitive development. Imaginative “free play,” as opposed to games or structured activities, is the most essential type. “Free play” is critical for becoming socially adept, coping with stress, creativity, and building cognitive skills such as problem solving. The creative aspect is key because it challenges the developing brain more than following predeterLarry Weiss
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mined rules does. In free play, kids use their imagination and try out new activities and roles. Even research with animals shows that their behavior confirms the benefits and establishes its evolutionary history in how play provides animals and humans with the important skills that help them survive and reproduce. Kids and animals that do not play when they are young may grow into anxious, socially maladjusted adults. Work by Brown, et.al, over four decades of research on children’s play has found that a lack of opportunity for unstructured, imaginative “free” play can keep children from growing into happy, welladjusted adults. Historically, at least in my childhood, kids did not have the technology of today and learned to play with most anything and each other, call it free play.
But today free play may be losing its standing as a staple of youth. According to a paper published in 2005 in the Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, children’s free playtime dropped by a quarter between 1981 and 1997. Today, parents are more concerned about getting their kids into college and are sacrificing playtime for more structured “learning” activities. Kid’s after-school hours are now being filled with music lessons and sports, in turn reducing time for imaginative free play. Other studies support Brown’s conviction that the lack of free play in childhood disrupts normal social, emotional and cognitive development in animals and humans. He and other psychologists worry that limiting free play in kids may result in a generation of anxious, unhappy and socially maladjusted
Life to Years / page 12
adults. But it is never too late to change. Play promotes mental and physical wellbeing. It facilitates learning and problem solving, and social relationships, especially intimacy with adults. How do these “free play” activities benefit us? Perhaps most importantly, play appears to help us develop strong social and communication skills, as we learn to keep interactions and behaviors friendly. The research also suggests that play is critical for emotional health, since it helps us work through anxiety and stress. Relieving stress and building social skills may seem to be obvious benefits of play. But research hints at a third, more counterintuitive area of influence and that is play actually makes us smarter. Animal researchers believe that play serves as a kind of training for the unexpected. “Play is like a kaleidoscope,” says evolutionary biologist Marc Bekoff of the University of Colorado at Boulder, in that it is random and creative. Bekoff maintains that play encourages flexibility and creativity and that is advantageous in the future with unexpected situations or new environments. For years parents have been told about the importance of play for their children, but what about the importance of play for adults? The National Institute for Play believes that play can dramatically transform our personal health, our relationships, our ability to learn, and the capacity of our corporations to innovate. How do you play? Our stereotype of aging is that adults, especially older adults, are too old to play. There is actually strong evidence that this could not be further from the truth. Play may be the very thing that keeps you vibrant and healthy. In fact, studies show that a life lived without play is at increased risk for stress related diseases, mental health issues, addiction and interpersonal violence. Play generates optimism, seeks out novelty, makes perseverance fun, leads to mastery, enhances the immune system, fosters empathy, and promotes a sense of belonging and community. Despite the power of play, somewhere between childhood and adulthood, many of us stop playing. We exchange play for work and responsibilities. When we do have some leisure time, we're more likely to zone out in front of the
TV or computer than to engage in creative, brain-stimulating play. By giving ourselves permission to play with the joyful abandon of childhood, we can continue to reap its benefits throughout life. Instead of looking at play as a waste of precious time, consider it a great investment in your wellbeing. Play has to be reframed and seen not as an opposite to work but rather as a component of work. Imagination and creativity through play are like muscles, use them or lose them! What a better way of adding life to years than to play. Lawrence J. Weiss, Ph.D. is CEO of the Center for Healthy Aging.
Dr. Weiss welcomes your comments. larry@addinglifetoyears.com
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Ophthalmology
Overcoming Hysterical Blindness Michael J. Fischer, M.D. Eye Physician & Surgeon
A condition known as “hysterical Michael Fischer blindness” involves some type of emotional or psychological trauma that leads to a temporary loss of sight. Recovery is often slow and uncertain, but a treatment first proposed
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nearly a hundred years ago has been validated by recent research. The therapy calls for patients suffering from hysterical blindness to read a card that shows the letter “E” in various positions. Patients are asked to point out whether the letter E’s three protrusions are pointing up
or down or to the left or right. Over a period of days or weeks, the treatment continues until the patients are able to correctly identify the protrusions’ direction up to 20 feet away. Progress indicates a return of sight. It should be noted, until now, there has been no standard care for hysterical
blindness, which was generally believed to disappear with time. If you would like further information on today’s topic or an appointment, please call my office at (775)8822988. We are conveniently located at 3839 N. Carson Street, Carson City. M/C, Visa and Medicare accepted.
Eydie’s Excerpts by Eydie Scher
My husband got a new truck, a new lawnmower, and a fishing trip to Alaska. I got a Colonoscopy
Summer sizzles. The phone reminds me of the appointment. David made that appointment months ago. It was the first one available. Gee, colonoscopies must be the in thing since those doctors are so busy. The consult was easy. The doctor jokes that he’d give me 3 at once since I never had one before. Years and years of bugging me just makes me resolve not to get one even stronger. Pleasant is not a word associated with it. Of course, the antonym is. I met my new regular doctor when we moved here. The first words out of his mouth were, “Did you get a colonoscopy?” The next doctor. Amazingly, he greets me with the same phrase. Oh gee, I now have to face a third doctor just when I am getting used to fielding the question. It’s not only doctors. It’s friends and David who has had 2 and introduced me to the perils of the procedure first hand. This is not a subject that fits under a rug. It is openly discussed and debated. So here I am reading the heavy packet of instructions. I only have a weekend to prepare. Sunday will be my day of doom before the Monday procedure. The list of “no’s” exceeds itself each day. The last real food is eaten on Saturday. Sunday dawns with Jell-O for
breakfast. Apple juice accompanies it as does water. Can’ I just take that crapy stuff now and get on with it? No, it says 6 p.m. The day is a drag. Chicken broth pretends its lunch. I wonder what they call this diet. The scale announces that 4 pounds are sliding off me. Hey, you might want to try this diet though I seriously doubt it. A growling stomach is constant. It’s 5:45 p.m. and I’m going for it. David mixes the concoction. A few deep breaths and I guzzle it down with nary a pause. If I stop, I’m afraid I won’t start again. A second bottle of cold water sits waiting a turn. Okay, how long before my first bathroom trip? The words ponder in my head as the other part of my anatomy informs me, it’s NOW. My bathroom and I are bonding! Soft toilet paper feels like steel wool. I try getting up and it’s a screeching return to the toilet that is my best friend for the time being. Water is consumed as noted. I crawl into bed early and pray the night does not linger too long. He pushes me awake. Ah, ha, I did
sleep a bit. It's 5:30 a.m. and you what that means. It is time for my second dose. What do they want from my body? It must be an empty shell after last night. Down it goes plus more water. Everything stops. No more water, no more Jell-O, and no more gook. Not even a piece of gum can slake my throat. Hang on I tell myself. I’ve made it this far and they say the rest is easy. We arrive early and sit and wait. A funny segment of the Live with Kelly and Michael show about Sumo wrestling makes David laugh and me smirk. Please call my name. Yes, I’m in. Surprise, the gown opens to the back. A bed is wheeled in my cubicle and again I wait. The curtain flurries but no one enters. Then a doctor walks in and introduces himself. Now I’m glad I put on that dab of make-up. He did see my face first before the other part. I’m being wheeled down the corridor. A line of beds informs me that I’m not the only one going through this. Wow, this is a busy place. Did I mention the IV in my arm that the nurse put in on
her first try? Something is poured into it. I ask when I’ll be put out. I am being shaken awake. I didn’t feel a thing and I don’t remember anything other than glancing at the clock. Forty-five minutes have elapsed. Is the world spinning a bit? My lips sink into a cup of water. Please may I have some more? I slip into my clothes and there he sits smugly watching and then hugging me. Two polyps are removed and being sent off to a lab. I did okay. I’m done. Feed me. I scavenge anything I see and eat like a piggy. Instructions include taking it easy today and not to make any big decisions. I wonder why that is. My head still spins but my designated driver steers me home. My dogs think everything’s perfectly normal. I did it and I am good for years. They were right about the easy part. That I handled well. Of course, David tells everyone what an awful patient I was and how it was much harder on him. Give me a break! I wanted to write about this procedure since my oncologist said that colon cancer is a really nasty one. I’m not going to preach like your doctors or family might. I just want you to know that I came through it and of course, I’m happy it’s over. Your health comes first so please take care of it. I need my readers! Comments always appreciated: eydies@aol.com September • 2013 • 15
September Calendar Sept. 1-13 - Exhibition of Glass, Tyler Kimball & Jack Hedrick, crafted glassware and figurative sculpture, Metro Gallery, lobby, Reno City Hall. Sept. 11 - Carson City Support Group, Alzheimer’s Association, Carson Tahoe Cancer Center Conference Room, 1535 Medical Pkwy., Carson City, (775)786-8061.
Sept. 12 - Alzheimer’s Association Support Group, Coventry Cross Episcopal Church, 1631 Esmeralda Place, Minden, (775)786-8061. Sept. 13 - Workshop for Seniors, 1-3 p.m., Nevada Museum of Art. Sept. 14 - Walk in Memory Walk for Hope: Help us Stop Suicide. Register online at www.NVSuicidePrevention.org
Sept. 15 - Sunday Music Brunch, Doug Coomler Quartet, 11-1 p.m., Nevada Museum of Art. Sept. 15 - Edible Pedal 100: Bowers Mansion, Washoe Valley. Cyclists ride three routes, 10 miles, 50 miles, or 100 miles. A fundraiser for the Rotary Club of Reno Sunrise. Register at www.ediblepedal100.org Sept. 16-17 - Annual Observance of Constitution Day, San Francisco journalist Seth Rosenfeld, 6-9 p.m., Sept. 17, Mathewson-IGT Knowledge Center, UNR. Visit www.unr.edu/constitutionday or call Extended Studies at (775) 784-4046. Sept. 18 - Alzheimer’s Association Support Group, Fernley Senior Center, 1170 West Newlands Dr., Fernley, (775)577-9347. Sept. 18 - Colored Pencil Techniques Workshop, Brewery Arts Center, Carson City.
Sept. 18 - Renown Health Lecture, Memory Delirium and Dementia, Dr. Frances Stokes, Dir. of Nursing, 10-11 a.m., Neil Rd. Rec. Center. Sept. 19 - Food Pantry, Washoe County Senior Services, first 300 people, income restrictions, (775) 328-2575. Sept. 22 - American Heart Association Northern Nevada Division’s Heart & Stroke Walk, and Running Red For Heart 5K, Scheels, (775)322-7065. Sept. 25-26 - Aging and Disabilities Services Conference, Las Vegas. Conference information at: nvadsd.com or (702)486-2438. Sept. 26 - Healthy Habits Inpatient Rehabilitation, Dr. George Mars, No. NV Medical Center, 1:30-2:30 p.m., Neil Rd. Rec. Center, $.50 drop in fee. Sept. 27 - Board of Examiners of Long-Term Care Administrators, Industry Fair, 11-3 p.m., Brady Industries, 7055 Lindell Rd., Las Vegas, (702)486-5445. Sept. 27-29. Lake Tahoe Marathon, 3 days of running, swimming, kayaking, cycling and speed golf. Competitors range from toddlers to octogenarians. Contact Les Wright (530)544-7095. Sept. 28 - Genoa Candy Dance, two day event, Genoa.
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Oct. 10 - Aged to Perfection, KNPB, 5:30 to 9 p.m., Silver Legacy Resort Casino, honoring Gail and John Sande, III. www.knpb.org/ events/agedtoperfection.
E C L E C T I C O B S E RV E R by Janet Ross
A
ccording to The Encyclopedia America (remember? a source other than Wikipedia), “Harvest festivals are among the earliest of which we have written records, and human sacrifices were often used on these occasions to propitiate
with parade, children’s activities, food, fun and games. For details and a location map, check the website at www.loomischamber.com/eg gplant-festival. Auburn is the location for the annual Mountain Mandarin festival, scheduled (Eclectic page 20)
Apple Hill in Placer County (Hwy 50)
the appropriate gods.” Today’s harvest festivals may not be as bloody, but they continue to exist. In Great Britain harvest festivals are largely a function of churches, with the altars decorated with agricultural bounty. In this country harvest festivals have often morphed into county fairs at summer’s end. An easy ride over the Sierra in the next month or two will provide an opportunity to participate in a pair of unique harvest festivals. First up is the Eggplant Festival in Loomis scheduled for Saturday, October 5th. This historic town produces a small, family-friendly event and you don’t have to like eggplant to enjoy a homegrown celebration complete
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Eclectic / page 17
for mid November. This is the place to enjoy a Mandarin Screwdriver, sacks of freshly harvested Mandarins and Clementines, entertainment, crafts and family activities. Like the Eggplant festival, there hasn’t been an admission charge, but it’s pay parking on the
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large lot adjacent to the fair grounds. More information is available at www.mountainmandarins.com/festival.h tm. Apple Hill in Placer County (Hwy 50) is the site for numerous apple-related events. September 22nd there’s a Johnny Appleseed Day and a Chestnut Festival
on November 2nd. Apples are available beginning in September with the make-aperfect-pie Gravensteins. Jonathan and Gala are September favorites as well. They’re followed into October by the Golden Delicious, McIntosh, and Red Delicious. October brings Mutsu, Empire, Red Gold, Honey Crisp, Pippin, Winesap, Granny Smith, Fuji, and Pink Lady varieties. You’ll have to wait until November for the prized Arkansas Black, though. (Join Apple Hill’s email list for ripening bulletins at www.applehill.com and a complete schedule of special events, grower locations and a route map.) Our area Farmer’s Markets provide their own type of harvest festival, fea-
turing fresh produce from the surrounding countryside. Several markets continue into late September and include the following: The Summit on Tuesdays from 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; Tamarack Junction Casino on Fridays from 8 a.m.-1 p.m.; The Village Center on Saturdays from 8 a.m.-1 p.m.; Carson City at 3rd and Curry Streets on Saturdays from 8:30 a.m.1 p.m.; Dayton’s Community Roots Nursery on Thursdays from 3 to 6 p.m.; and in Truckee on Tuesdays at Truckee Regional Park from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. (More information on the Reno markets at www.ShirleysFarmersMrkets. com.)
Alzheimer's Team Tops 100,000 Facebook 'Likes' Caregivers, family members and patients with mild dementia give Alzheimer's Team a great start to Alzheimer's Awareness Month!
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lzheimer's Team, the online Facebook community dedicated to advancing new Alzheimer's treatments through clinical trials reached 100,000 Facebook 'Likes' in September, marking a great start to Alzheimer's Awareness month in the U.S. Alzheimer's Team Facebook page (www.facebook.com/AlzheimersTeam) serves up the latest news, allows the audience to interact, and fosters a greater understanding of the clinical trials process. "Over the past year, we've continued to experiment within the Facebook space and listen to what the caregivers of Alzheimer's patients want," said Liz Moench, MediciGlobal's President and CEO. "The result is a robust, engaged community that is consuming and sharing experiences, photos, tips and the quest for knowledge." MediciGlobal is a company dedicated to
informing patients and their families about clinical research opportunities. Along with Access to Patients, their digital marketing subsidiary, Medici administrates the Alzheimer's Team page as well as Facebook pages for a range of other medical conditions. Epilepsy, lupus, gout, endometriosis, interstitial cystitis, constipation, and celiac disease are among the areas Medici holds strong community support within. All told, MediciGlobal has over half a million Facebook 'likes' across its pages. "Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers are eager to find an effective treatment that can actually arrest the progression of the disease, since no such treatment is currently available today," adds Moench. "Our Facebook page is encouraging people to learn more about the emerging science about Alzheimer's including the role of the Tau tangles in Alzheimer's." According to
Walk to End Alzheimerʼs September 28,8 a.m. Sparks Marina Moench, Alzheimer's Team is playing an important role in sharing new research opportunities among the Alzheimer's community. The page has informed members about one such clinical trial that could provide the first definitive data on a diseasemodifying and preventative treatment of Alzheimer's, supported by TauRx Therapeutics. A video link from Alzheimer's Team to TauRx Therapeutics' website informs visitors that a 90 percent reduction in the rate of disease progression was achieved in its Phase 2 clinical trial over a two year period, and that a Phase 3 clinical trial involving 1,330 patients in 21 countries is now getting underway. Patients and caregivers are invited to sign up for study updates on the study website at www.AlzheimersStudies.com.
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Top 10 Things about the Affordable Care Act
Barry Gold Dir. of Government Relations
Now that the Affordable Care Act (ACA) is the law of our land, you may wonder, “What’s in it for me?” Here are ten things you should know:
1. Breathe easy. You are now protected against unfair treatment due to an illness or disability. Health insurance companies can no longer drop your health coverage if you become sick or disabled.
5. Staying healthy just got easier! Preventing illness with the right vaccinations and screenings is simpler and less expensive. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, now must cover preventive benefits.
2. Insurance companies cannot discriminate against you. Health insurance companies can no longer charge you more simply because of your health condition or gender.
6. If you are uninsured, finding affordable health coverage is simpler through Nevada Health Link, our state’s health insurance marketplace. Information about coverage options through the marketplace will begin in October. In the meantime, visit www.NevadaHealthLink.com or www.HealthLawAnswers.org.
3. Our children are better off now that insurers cannot deny health insurance to anyone under age 19 because of a pre-existing condition. In 2014, Americans of all ages will have this protection. 4. The days when insurance companies could stop paying for your health care—if you spent a certain amount during a year or over your lifetime—are over. Insurance companies can no longer limit how much they will pay for your medical benefits.
7. Your children can stay on your family policy until they reach age 26. Health insurance providers cannot force young adults off their parents’ policies once they reach 18 or 21, or graduate from college. 8. You can sleep well knowing that your guaranteed Medicare benefits are safe. Your guaranteed Medicare benefits are protected. This includes doctor visits, and rehabilitation services. 9. The doughnut hole is going away. If you reach the Medicare Part D doughnut hole this year, you will get a 52.5 percent discount on brand-name prescriptions, and a 21 percent discount on generic prescriptions. Visit Doughnut Hole Calculator: www.aarp.org/doughnuthole. 10. There’s help to pay for insurance coverage. Starting in 2014, if your job does not offer health coverage and you have a limited income, you may get a tax credit to help pay for insurance coverage through the state’s health insurance marketplace.
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More Protections and Benefits. The law also provides more protections for people in nursing homes and for small businesses.
Tinseltown Talks
Stuart Whitman: A Class Actor
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By Nick Thomas
ou won’t see Stuart Whitman’s name listed in the closing credits for the 1951 sci-fi classic, “The Day the Earth Stood Still.” But he’s there, if only for a few seconds, in an uncredited role as one of the sentries guarding the alien spaceship. Such was the humble beginning of many young actors in the 50s, appearing anonymously in bit parts hoping ultimately to be “discovered.” It took about a decade, but critics and audiences eventually noticed the
Stuart Whitman, Rio Conchos, 1964
handsome, dark-haired (Whitman p. 25)
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BIGGEST little City
W
hile there are many outstanding individuals connected with the Reno Air Races, none was more important than Reno car dealer Ben Scott. For many years one of the main sponsors of the races was Buick Motor Company. The Buick factory would send a fleet of Buick sedans for the use of the pilots and other important dignitaries of the event. Once the races were over the cars would be transferred to the Scott Motor Company where they would be sold at a substantial discount to the public. Because of this Scott served many years on the Air Race Board. Other notable names on that board would include the late Pat Brady, the late Roy Powers and T. J. Day.
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More Reno Air Races
by Harry Spencer
The board itself was extremely active and responsible for the rapid growth of the event whose long-term Executive Director was Thornton Audrain before turning the reigns over to the current boss Mike Houghton. Under Houghton’s leadership the Races have enjoyed their greatest expansion and recent popularity. CELEBRATING BEN SCOTT DAY IN RENO. Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval, retired car Last month dealer Ben Scott and President of the Reno Sparks New Car Dealers Association Ryan Dolan. Houghton was the fea- Scott was honored by the RSNCDA for his long tenure as head of Scott Motor Company. tured speaker at the regular meeting of spectacle of its kind in the a proclamation from the Mayor G.O.D. (Good Old Days) Club. world. Houghton attributed of Reno, Bob Cashell, and a He gave a brief overview of the much of the continuing success plaque from his fellow car dealupcoming show and said that of the Air Races to the efforts ers at the RSNCDA. he expected in excess of of more than 2,000 volunteers Also present at the car deal200,000 fans to attend the only who perform many of the ers meeting was Governor essential duties. He Brian Sandoval who participatalso noted that the ed in the presentations and Breitling watch comdelivered the principle talk at pany had doubled the meeting. their sponsorship. He Scott, who was very active in urged all of his listenmany civic and community ers to try to attend the endeavors during his time as races this year since it franchise car dealer for is the 50th Golden Cadillac, Buick and Land Rover, Anniversary of the said that he would be wearing show. Levis on a daily basis now on. Another item of Ryan Dolan of the Dolan interest is the fact that auto group who is President of last week at the reguthe RSNCDA congratulated lar monthly meeting Scott on his many years of servof the Reno Sparks ice and business ethics. New Car Dealers It has been said that an indiAssociation, veteran vidual’s greatest achievement in car dealer Ben Scott his professional life is the was honored on his respect and admiration in retirement. which he is held by his peers. Scott had been the Certainly when it comes to the owner operator of career of Ben Scott this has Scott Motor proven to be exceptionally true. Company, a long time In recognition of his profesfamily business that sional excellence, community was started in 1929. and civic endeavors, he will be On the occasion of his long remembered in the Reno retirement he received community.
Whitman p. 23
Whitman. While waiting for that big break, young Stuart bought and hired out a bulldozer to help pay the bills. But it wasn’t an entirely odd employment choice. “My dad was a real estate developer, and I helped him out before I was put under contract with Universal Studios,” he told me during a June interview. His patience and perseverance paid off with a Best Actor Oscar nomination for his performance in the 1961 film, “The Mark.” Shot in Ireland with costar Rod Steiger, it was a controversial film for the time, with Whitman playing a recovering sex offender. “I didn’t see the script until I got to my hotel room in London,” he said. “My first thoughts were ‘I can’t do this’ and tried to think of an excuse to get out of it. Later, I got a call from Steiger who wanted to meet and rehearse at his place. We worked our way through and it turned out fine.” After the film’s release he says coworkers told him “Stuart, you’re going to get an Oscar, or at least nominated.” They were partly correct. “I was living in North Hollywood and heard the nomination on the radio while driving. I was shocked and almost crashed the car!” But he didn’t win. Quite likely, the film’s sensitive theme turned off some Academy voters. He was also up against stiff competition that year including Spencer Tracy, Paul Newman, and Charles Boyer. The award went to Maximilian Schell in “Judgment at Nuremberg.” Ironically, Schell’s sister, Maria, was Whitman’s co-star in “The Mark.” “Maria told me she didn’t know who to vote for that year!” he recalled. Whitman’s charm and charisma made him a natural
for western roles including the short-lived but popular TV series, “The Cimarron Strip” in 1967, and films such as “The Comancheros” co-starring with John Wayne in 1961. “Director Michael Curtiz wanted me for the part of Paul Regret in the film, but said it had already been cast. He suggested I go talk to Wayne,” said Whitman. “I found him on the Paramount lot coming out of his trailer. I’d never met him before, but walked right up to him and spent 20 minutes pitching for the part. Finally he said ‘Okay kid, you’ve got it.’ That’s the kind of power John Wayne had. Duke loved to play chess between scenes and we had many games. His strategy was strange because he would give up major pieces just to save his pawns!” Whitman’s most well-known film is probably “Those Magnificent Men in Their Flying Machines” in 1965. “That was the first big money I made in a movie – $300,000,” he said. Money, however, was never an issue for much of his later career. From his humble bulldozing beginnings, Whitman went on to make millions from real estate investments. “I didn’t need to act to make a living, but had a real passion for it – I just loved to act.” After some 200 film and TV roles, Whitman, now 85, retired to his 30-acre ranch in Santa Barbara. “I’ve lived there for 45 years, in between the mountains and the ocean. It’s a beautiful spot.” In 2006, he married his third wife, Julia, a Russian. The two met when Whitman traveled to St. Petersburg to be best man at a friends’ wedding. “After returning to the U.S., I got a phone call from her saying she was in Pasadena and could we meet. I’m sure glad I said ‘absolutely!’” Nick Thomas is a freelance
Stuart Whitman and John Wayne, The Comancheros, 1961
writer and the author of Raised by the Stars. He can be
reached at his blog: http://getnickt.blogspot.com.
September • 2013 • 25
this ‘n that
by Anne Vargas annevargas3@gmail.com
The Summer of Our Innocence
My husband’s lecture schedule had us cruising peacefully for ten weeks through Egypt, Jordan and the Anne Vargas Mediterranean, concluding with a tranquil transatlantic crossing to New York. We were on the deck before dawn as we sailed past the Statue of Liberty on the morning of September 7th, 2001, experiencing emotion as we passed America’s symbol of freedom. We spent a few days in the city before heading to Reno on the 11th of September. The crisp, sunny sky glistening over Manhattan with the whisper of autumn in the air made us reluctant to get in the cab; it was such a beautiful
26 • 2013 • September
morning we didn’t want to leave. Only the increasingly insistent sirens marred the serenity as we headed to JFK “There might be a slight delay; there seems to be a problem”, the airline agent said. Then the horrifying news along with terse announcements that all flights were cancelled, the airport was to be evacuated. Travelers were swiftly herded into the street. There was a complete airport lockdown; roads were closed and all forms of public transportation had ceased. We were stranded and people began to panic. We stood on the street among the throng for a long while before an overcrowded shuttle bus arrived to take us to the Ramada Inn, situated on airport grounds. The hotel was not prepared for what they were to face.
Pandemonium in the lobby. Our names were added to a waiting list. More busloads of people streamed through the doors. Cell phones didn’t work. Public phones were jammed but everyone was remarkably patient and considerate of those waiting in line. A Red Cross truck arrived with 500 hundred cots and blankets. The lobby, corridors, patios and parking lots were lined with people camping out on whatever they could find, even newspapers, once the cots were all taken. We were among the very fortunate because we were given the key to a room. Under other circumstances it may have seemed slightly shabby but now it seemed sumptuous and we felt more than a little guilty at the luxury of a bed. A midnight trip to the phone booths
sent me quickly back to the room to get our bedspreads; not everyone downstairs had a blanket. Wednesday: The lockdown continued, roads remained closed. Those of us who had rooms offered the opportunity of a shower to those who did not. Toiletries were sold out at the hotel shop so everyone shared soap, shampoo and toothpaste with strangers. The hotel staff did their best; the two public restrooms were kept amazingly clean. Nearly half of us were from far flung corners of the world; it almost resembled a miniUnited Nations with all manner of cultural garb. It was touching to see people reach out to one another in reassurance and concern, exchanging smiles despite lack of a common tongue. (this ‘n that p. 28)
Answers page 28
September • 2013 • 27
this ‘n that / page 26 By nightfall faces were familiar; the elderly woman in a kimono who wouldn’t move from her cot next to the palm plant; the little man in a turban who spoke no English but smiled broadly and waved anxiously to everyone, the beautiful woman in the blue Sari, traveling alone, going from person to person offering comfort with her gentleness. One man played soft tunes on the lobby piano, soothing the weary waiting in the lengthy line for the dining room. Meals were handled buffet style; platters starchy stuff streamed from the kitchen. “Comfort food”, and comfort was exactly what we needed. Everyone was grateful for shelter and seeming safety. Thursday: The airport was to open on a limited basis but within two hours of that announcement the flights were cancelled. The airport and roads remained closed, the cots remained occupied. Friday: The airport opened, taxis began to arrive. People were hugging new friends, some huddled in group prayer. Crossword p.27
28 • 2013 • September
We made it to our daughter’s apartment in Manhattan where we waited through two days of re-scheduled flights. We joined thousands of candle-bearers walking the streets in silence before carefully placing their flames at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Saturday: A gentle atmosphere prevailed in the city. People greeted strangers, said “hello, how are you?” and really wanted to know. Flags were in every doorway, atop every car. A Sunday evening flight to San Francisco. The airport was eerily empty but we were greeted with reassuring smiles from the crew. Five hours later the Bay Bridge sparkled below and thundering applause reverberated throughout the aircraft. The enormity of the events of 9/11 continues to grip our nation. Nothing will ever be the same as we face new fears but we will always remember being part of a group of strangers bound together in a crisis, assisting and caring for one another in mutually frightening circumstances.
RESOURCES
• NEVADA INFORMATION ...............211 • AARP INFO. CENTER .............328-2506 • ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION 1301 Cordone Ave, Suite 180, Reno-786-8061 • CARE CHEST 7910 N. Virginia Street, Reno..............829-2273 • COMMUNITY SERVICES AGENCY, 1090 East 8th, Reno.......786-6023 • ELDER PROTECTIVE SERVICES ADSD.….........................................................688-2964 • FOOD BANK (TRUCK)...............331-3663 • FOSTER GRANDPARENt...358-2768 • HAWC CLINIC, 1055 S. Wells, Reno.................................................................329-6300 • MEDICATION MANAGEMENt, Sanford Center for Aging......................784-1612 • NV STATE WELFARE..............684-7200 • CENTER FOR INDEPendent LIVING, 999 Pyramid Way, Sparks ............................................................................353-3599 • RTC ACCESS TRANSPORTATION Information..................................................348-0477 • RENOWN MED. LOW INCOME CLINIC, 21 Locust, Reno...................982-5270 • RSVP, Reno..............................................784-1807 • RSVP, Rural Counties Carson City...................................................687-4680 • SANFORD CENTER FOR AGING, UNR.................................................................784-4774 • SENIOR COMPANION............358-2322 • SENIOR Community Services Employment, AARP, 1135 Terminal Way, Reno......................................................323-2243 Job Connect, Reno....................................284-9600 Sparks..............................................................284-9520 • SENIOR LAW PROJECT.........328-2592 • SENIOR OUTREACH SERVICES ............................................................................784-7506 • SENIOR SAMPLER (Assist. League) 1701 Vassar St., Reno...............................324-2003 • SHIP (State Health Ins. Adv. PGM) ....................................................................800-307-4444 • SilVER COLLEGE, 5270 Neil Rd., Reno…….........................................................829-9010 • Social Security 1170 Harvard Way, Reno..............888-808-5481 • Veteran’s Administration 1000 Locust Street, Reno.......................328-1293 • Veteran’s Benefits 5460 Corporate Drive, Reno.......688-1653, X1 (Source: Washoe County Senior Services)
September • 2013 • 29
Be Italian for 2 Days! The Great Italian Festival
F Eldorado Italian Fest worker stirs up a batch of Polenta.
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or 32 years, the Eldorado has brought the sights, sounds and flavors of Italy to downtown Reno during the Eldorado Great Italian Festival. The festival, held each year over Columbus Day weekend, is a celebration of Italian culture and traditions.
Set for October 12 and 13, the festival transforms downtown Reno into Little Italy with a grape stomp, sauce cookers competition, an Italian farmer’s market, bocce ball, kids’ gelato eating contest, Ferrari car display, Italian Buffet and incredible, free, live entertainment all weekend long. Joining the Italian Festival this year is Michael Barimo, who sings in English, Spanish and Italian. His original pop music incorporates elements of Neapolitan songs and a distinct 'pop latino' sensitivity. Michael is also known for his world-class whistling talent, that he incorporates in his performances. This whistling has led him to perform as the musical guest on the Late Show with David Letterman, at Carnegie Hall and as the musical star of the children's TV series '3rd and Bird!' on the Disney Channel and BBC. The “Ambassador of Italian Music to America,” Moreno Fruzetti, will also bring his golden voice and big personality back to Reno. Playing in concerts and festivals across the globe, he has been able to share his passion for all genres of music. Italian Festival attendees will hear selections that range from the 1940s to present including songs from the Golden Era of Italian music. Martin Bonventre will join the Italian Festival lineup with his big, warm, openhearted voice that audiences won't soon forget. (Italian page 32)
Seniors4Travel
City of Ten Thousand Buddhas By Robert Boyd and Carolyn Prusa
We were told to expect a calm descending upon us the moment we entered the City of Ten Thousand Buddhas. After a whirlwind three-day visit to Ukiah, California and its environments, plus a rather hectic morning of repacking the car in anticipation of our return trip to Reno, we’d saved our visit to the City of Ten Thousand Buddhas for last. Having never visited a Buddhist community, we didn’t know what to expect. And, frankly, we debated whether to just skip it and hit the road. But, that promised sense of calm beckoned us. The City of Ten Thousand Buddhas proved to be just what the doctor ordered (as they say), before our five hour drive home. Arriving through the entrance, a gilded, three-arch gate surmounted by a pagoda-looking roof, we’d come to a peaceful, scenic locale. Sycamore trees everywhere, rolling hills in the background, a quiet pond. And then we heard it….. SCREECH! Followed by another, startling us out of our reverie. We were being greeted by peacocks (obviously excused from a life of silence as practiced by some of the monks). As we parked our car at the administration/visitor center, one by one, the beautiful creatures joined us. Accustomed to people, the resident peacocks are quite tame, and we got the distinct impression they were expecting to be fed. One determined guy seemed willing enough to jump into the car and forage for himself. We spent time at an informative exhibition hall, and Robert bought his requisite postcards at the gift store. We then walked around the campus, followed by our new best
friends, the peacocks. We noticed streets with angelic sounding names such as "Joyous Way" and "Proper Speech Way". We encountered an occasional monk, a couple of nuns and a mother escorting her three young children off to school. In the distance, people were tending a garden. Although it is located in a liberal area of California, the City of Ten
City of Ten Thousand Buddhas.
Photo: Kungming
Thousand Buddhas is a strict Buddhist (Buddhas page 32)
September • 2013 • 31
Buddhas from page 31
monastery adhering to the traditional Asian monastic culture. Different sections of the campus are designated for men or women, and generally the genders do not co-mingle. Smoking, drug use, and the consumption of meat products and alcoholic beverages are prohibited. The monastics eat only one meal a day and only before noon. Their day begins at 3:30 a.m. and ends at 10:30 p.m. The property comprises 488 acres, of which 80 acres are developed. The rest of the land includes meadows, orchards, and forests. The main Buddha hall, monastic facilities, educational institutes for all ages, Jyun Kang Vegetarian Restaurant, supporting structures and residential houses are all located in this complex. The Dharma Realm Buddhist Association purchased the site in 1974 and established an international center there by 1976. Originally the property housed the Mendocino State Mental Hospital, founded in 1889. We read
32 • 2013 • September
somewhere that the monks had to chant round the clock for weeks to purify the property of its negative energy. While we have no way of verifying that, you have to admit the insane asylum aspect is intriguing. Don’t leave without stopping at the Jeweled Hall of 10,000 Buddhas. It’s the building with a 20-foot Buddha perched nearly at rooftop level. Go inside the spacious ornate prayer hall and look at interior walls lined with thousands and thousands of delicate gold Buddhas. Rows of prayer mats cover the floor, and the scent of incense is pervasive. A few cautions: Neat, modest dress is required. Park at the visitor center, check in and enjoy your walk around the common areas permitted for visitors. Open daily, 8 – 6 p.m. To enter the City of 10,000 Buddhas, exit Hwy 101 at the Talmage Rd. exit. Go east and enter on Talmage Rd. Address: Phone: 707-462-0939 2001 Talmage Road Ukiah, CA Website: www.cttbusa.org
Italian Fest Show Schedule: Saturday, October 12 ROME Stage – 4th and Virginia Streets 9:30-10:15 - Nevada Opera 10:30-12 - Michael Barimo 12:30-2 - Tre Bella 2-2:15 - Grease 2:30-4 - Moreno Fruzzetti 4:30-6 - Ray Massa’s EuroRhythms VENICE Stage – 3rd and Virginia Streets 10:30-11:30 - Martin Bonventre 12:00-1:30 - Ray Massa’s EuroRhythms 2:00-3:30 - Bella Ciao 4:00-5:30 - Capuano n’ T Rock, from Italy Sunday, October 13 ROME Stage – 4th and Virginia Streets 9:30-11 - Bella Ciao 11:30-1 - Michael Barimo 1:15-1:30 - Grease 1:45-3:15 - Ray Massa’s EuroRhythms 3:45-5:15 - Moreno Fruzzetti VENICE Stage – 3rd and Virginia Streets 10:00-11:30 - Primo Basso Band 12:00- 1:30 - Tre Bella 2:00-3 - Martin Bonventre 3:30-5 - Capuano n’ T Rock, from Italy Visit: www.eldoradoreno.com
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