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Vol 41 • No. 7
Cause of deadly nursing home clusters difficult to pinpoint
'I was gasping for breath': Covid-19 survivor
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By Bob Rives “Where do you think you got it?” Friends ask me that about the Covid-19 that felled me for much of this spring. The answer, unfortunately, is I have no idea. There are guesses. There were crowds at the gym, in church, stores and restaurants. But I don’t know anyone in those places who has been afflict-
June 2020
ed. We have been to Wuhan, the Chinese city where it all apparently started. But that was 21 years ago. What this means is it’s hard to tell where the virus lurks and that’s why it’s so hard to stop the pandemic. But halting it is a good idea. Having gone through it, the experience isn’t worth repeating. See Survivor, page 7
By Mary Clarkin Roz Hutchinson believes her mother receives excellent care at Chisholm Place, a memory care home on Webb Road in Wichita. Seven deaths among residents from COVID-19 haven’t shaken that opinion. “I believe that they have done everything that could or would or should have been done to protect the staff and to protect residents, and to communicate what they were doing,” said Hutchinson, whose mother, Betty Rowley, is 94. “I felt bad for them, because I know it’s not been easy and they’re very close to my mother and all the other residents.” Chisholm Place is among three long-term care facilities in Sedgwick County that accounted for 85 percent of Sedgwick County’s COVID-19 deaths through mid-May. No one can say for sure why. Clearwater Nursing and Rehabilitation Center had eight resident
deaths and 61 confirmed cases — 47 residents, 14 staff — as of May 8. Chisholm Place, 1859 N. Webb Rd., had 34 cases among residents, including seven deaths, and 12 cases among staff as of May 12. Park West Plaza Retirement Community’s The Manor Nursing Home, 503 N. Maize Road. had nine cases— seven residents, two staff— and one resident death as of May 4. Sedgwick County announced May 15 there was a 17th death from one of these three long-term care COVID cluster sites. It did not disclose the location. Some nursing facilities in Sedgwick County have had one positive case, but the virus did not spread and kept those facilities off the cluster list. Why did the virus spread in these other three? “That is a good question, and one I don’t have an answer for. That’s a See Clusters, page 10
Hot on the trails
Walkers, cyclists take to paths for exercise and fun
If there’s a silver lining to these last few months, it may be this: People are discovering an outdoors they’ve previously experienced mostly through car windows. The greater Wichita area boasts numerous scenic paths for biking and walking, and they’ve been packed as never before. For the most part, the region’s flat topography makes them ideal for all ages. Turn to pages 11 and 17 to find two great possibilities for your next outing: the Arkansas River Path and Wichita State University’s outdoor sculpture collection. See pages 11 and 17
Questions about services?
Photo by Fernando Salazar/ Wichita Journalism Collaborative
Friends enjoy a sunset stroll along the Arkansas River in Wichita.
Central Plains Area Agency on Aging or call your county Department on Aging: 1-855-200-2372
Butler County: (316) 775-0500 or 1-800- 279-3655 Harvey County: (316) 284-6880 or 1-800-279-3655
Page 2
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June 2020
Sedgwick County gets $100 million for coronavirus fight The Acrive Age Sedgwick County Commissioners are dealing with an interesting problem: how to spend nearly $100 million given to the county by the federal government to battle the coronavirus pandemic. At least some of the $99.6 million will go toward programs and services geared toward older residents, commission Chairman Pete Meitzner said last month. “You’ve heard nationally, it’s a constant theme that the most vulnerable
people need to be protected,” Meitzner said. “Seniors fall into that vulnerable population, so we’re very aware of them.” Local governments with more than 500,000 residents automatically qualify for the federal Coronavirus Relief Fund. Sedgwick County has about 516,000 residents and its current budget totals about $440 million. A review team selected by County Manager Tom Stolz will make recommendations to the commission. Its members include employees of the
county, Wichita, Derby and Wichita State University, plus community members Melody McCray-Miller and Jane McHugh. The county hired Witt O’Brien’s, a Washington, D.C.-based consulting firm that specializes in emergency management. “We want to make sure what we can we pay for, because we would have to return it if we decided to do something that’s outside the scope” of federal requirements, Meitzner said. Meitzner would like to use some of the money stockpiling protective equipment for first responders. “Absolutely,” he said. “We’ve all heard the rumor that this thing could Insurance break possible You may be eligible for a break on property and casualty insurance. At least 58 companies have provided Kansas consumers a total of $55 million in rebates, discounts or credits toward future payments because of the COVID-19 crisis, according to Kansas Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt’s office. Consumers should contact their insurance agent or auto insurer to see if help is available. For further questions, call Schmidt’s office at 1-800-432-2484.
reappear in the fall. If this thing comes back, we as a community and as a state, we are going to be so much smarter and understand what it’s critical to be prepared for. It will not be easier, but we will be smarter, that’s for sure.” Meitzner said testing and education for older residents could qualify, along with safety measures. “How can we protect the senior centers or any other senior services, making sure that when we’re delivering Meals on Wheels, or when they need transportation, (we are) protecting the senior but also the person delivering that service? That would be very valuable for our senior population.” Charity scams multiply Don’t be taken by scammers claiming to be collecting donations related to coronavirus. While there are many legitimate charities working this area, the Federal Trade Commission says to take precautions if contacted. Search online for the charity’s name and the words “scam” or “fraud.” Check review ratings at a site such as www.give.org, maintained by the Better Business Bureau. For tips on donating safely, visit the FTC’s site www.ftc.gov/charity.
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June 2020
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Senior Expo discontinued after 33 years The Active Age The Senior Expo is apparently no more. The Central Plains Area Agency on Aging, which hosted the long-running event each fall, notified sponsors last month that it would no longer be involved. No other organizations have stepped forward to assume that role. The Expo annually drew thousands of participants with its health screenings, flu shots, workshops and demonstrations, lunch and freebies from more
than 100 vendors. In recent years it sprawled to encompass the Advanced Learning Library, Botanica and the Wichita Art Museum. CPAAA billed it as a “must-see event” and “the biggest tradeshow in the state of Kansas geared toward seniors, caregivers and their interests.” This year would have been the Expo’s 34th year. In an email, Monica Cissell, CPAAA director of information, said the Expo “has had a great run; and
RSVP Volunteer banquet cancelled
RSVP and the Sedgwick County Department of Aging have cancelled the annual RSVP volunteer banquet, but organizers say a tribute video and gifts for volunteers are in the works. “RSVP volunteers are some of the most hard working people I have ever met, and I feel terrible that we can’t recognize them with a big party again this year,” RSVP program coordinator Jennie Benitez said.
after many heartfelt and contemplative conversations, we’ve recently made the tough decision to no longer coordinate and host CPAAA’s Senior Expo.” “CPAAA will focus on seeking out new and innovative methods to highlight the value of aging and expand educational opportunities for adults 55+, caregivers and professionals
Page 3 in the field of aging. With the growing and changing older adult population, we know we cannot reach people as we once did. Today, creative programming and new techniques using technology are even more important than ever.” Cissell said CPAAA “will start with plans for a Caregiver education event in the Fall” and also develop “new approaches to talk about the many aspects of aging.”
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We’re still here for the underserved. And these days, that’s just about everyone. We’re learning more and more about the Coronavirus even as it continues its devastating march through communities around the globe. One thing we’re learning about ourselves is how very much we need each other. And how important it is to leave no one behind when it comes to healthcare. Making healthcare more accessible to everyone has been GraceMed’s mission for four decades now. That’s why we assembled a team to conduct drive-through testing as soon as tests were available. We believe in the priceless value of each life in our community, and we are grateful to be able to join with other providers in Wichita to do everything we can to save lives and preserve health. Please call us if you believe you are experiencing symptoms of the virus. Our nurses will help you determine if you need to be tested.
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June 2020
The Active Age seeks nominations for Thrive Awards 25 over 55 The Active Age plans to celebrate 25 people this summer for their achievements and contributions to our community. We’re asking you to help us narrow the field by submitting nominations. Called the Thrive Awards, this recognition is intended to honor excellence and/or service in education, business, health care, arts, government service, nonprofit work, volunteerism and other fields. The only qualification is that nominees be at least 55 years of age as of Jan. 1 and live in Sedgwick, Butler or Harvey counties.
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To nominate someone for a Thrive Award, please fill out the form on this page and mail or bring it to us at 125 S. West St., Suite 105, Wichita, KS, 67213, or email Joe@theactiveage.com. THRIVE AWARD NOMINATION FORM Nominee:_________________________________________________________ Person making the nomination:_______________________________________ Telephone number and/or email address of person making the nomination: ________________________________________________________________ Please tell us, in 300 words or less, why this nominee is deserving:____________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
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The active age, published the first of each month, is distributed in Butler, Harvey and Sedgwick counties. To subscribe, call 316-942-5385, write the active age or visit theactiveage.com.
Editor: Joe Stumpe
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June 2020
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Page 5
My two cents’ worth on the county’s millions By Joe Stumpe Last July, Sedgwick County manager Tom Stolz promised a review of the Department on Aging and its funding. Stolz has kept his word, enlisting help from the Public Policy and Management Center at Wichita State University. In April, a research assistant with the center called to ask me my opinion, which I’ll share here as well. In general, I think the department and the programs it supports deserve more money. Vital programs that have experienced waiting lists, such as Meals on Wheels, would be one place to start. But others have been scraping by for years, too, as the county’s spending in this area has failed to keep up with the growing older population. The top priority should be services designed to help people live in their own homes as long as possible, which is indeed how the county Department
Shirley Albers Ruby Anderson Raymond Appel Jo A. Auchterlonie Janice Bailey Peggy Baldwin Patricia Ball Douglas Ballard Nyla Barter Sandy Baum Harold Beardsley Carol Biggers Donald Boldea Beverly Bolton Peter Bono Juanita Botkin Martha Boyle James Brenneis Charles Bright Robert Brightup Pamela Brillhart Diane Britton Marjorie Brock Charles Brown Marsha Bunting Jane Burns Doris Butler Karen Caldera
Patricia Cannady Gary Caviness Hilda Cerday Marcella Chambers Val Cheatham Kathleen Childs Charles Chipman Aileen Clark Toni Clark Reynold & Donna Clasen Mary Clough Norma Clutter Mildred Clyborne Linda Coates Shirley Cullop Richard Darge Katherine Davis Jessie Dean Geneva Demel Patricia Deshler Linda Destasio Marcella Diller Darwin Dorr Janice Dow Mary Duren Mr & Mrs Durner Ara Ann Duty
From the Editor
on Aging sees it. But other programs and services are important, too. Here I’m thinking particularly of senior centers, which do so much to foster a sense of community among some older residents. And which could do so much more with adequate funding. Part of Stolz’s review will involve looking at how much governments elsewhere spend on aging services and programs. I hope the goal is not just to find the lowest common denominator, nor just to divide up the current “pie” differently. What’s needed is a bigger pie. I also wish members of the county’s Advisory Council on Aging and Disabilities would be given more than a cursory role in setting priorities. In recent years, Sedgwick County and the city of Wichita have made ma-
Bernice Eisenhauer Judith Eller Fred Ervin Orpha Eyres Shirley Ferguson C. Wayne Fletcher John Flook Ronald Fowler Marlene Friess Elenor Fuller Patricia Fuller Dorothy Fulton Naomi Fultz Peter Geiger Kenneth Geisdorf Lydia Gillquist Oleta Gilmer Carol Glidden Linda Golden Nelson Gordin David Gordon Harry Gregory Earl Griffith Marilyn Gump Diana Guthrie Diane Hahn Janice Halstead Sally Hansen
jor quality-of-life investments designed to make this area more attractive to younger residents and families. Stolz’s bosses on the county commission have the authority to do the same for older residents, if they choose, once they get his review in hand. Interestingly, the coronavirus pandemic that has been so disruptive to life in general recently led to a windfall of nearly $100 million for the county (see article, page 2). Since older residents with underlying health conditions are among the most vulnerable, it seems logical that programs and facilities designed to help residents stay healthy would be a good use of that money. Common underlying conditions are lung disease, heart conditions, diabetes and severe obesity. Fitness equipment and instructors, tobacco cessation courses and nutritional programs are a
few options for addressing those issues that come to mind. Medicaid expansion a no-go No one asked my opinion on this, but I think it's a shame Kansas won’t join 36 other states in expanding Medicaid coverage this year after opponents blocked passage in Topeka last month. The proposal had been a top priority of Gov. Laura Kelly and many advocates for older residents, but was defeated by the Legislature’s Republican majority in a replay of previous years. According to an Associated Press report, expansion supporters plan to try again next year. Meantime, Kelly said, “thousands of Kansans will go without health care for another year.” Joe can be reached at joe@theactiveage.com or by calling 316-640-4294.
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June 2020
Latest challenge for the Greatest Generation By Harry Clements I am part of what’s popularly known as the Greatest Generation, which survived both the Great Depression and World War II, two decidedly challenging eras in American history. We are now experiencing a quite different but equally challenging period, the coronavirus pandemic. Let's compare these episodes. The Depression was a condition of stagnant economics never before experienced to that extent and without a known solution to overcome it. I grew up in Oklahoma and Kansas during the Depression, and my memories are of so-called “hobos,” unemployed men seeking any level of work and traveling widely to find it. I saw them passing by on trains, but not in passenger cars. They rode on flat cars and in boxcars instead, traveling from town to town to find work of any kind, for any duration. And if not finding it, they would seek meals by knocking on back doors — usually located near the kitchen — and begging. If successful they would eat while sitting on the back steps. Things
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did not soared. improve We were much for protected many years. by oceans A common on either phrase side of used while our contisaying nent. But goodbye we were to travelers fighting was, “Write both in if you find Europe work.” and the What Pacific Harry Clements changed and mafor the United States was the onset of terials and products of all kinds were World War II — not entering it but being consumed to the extent that raproviding war products for our allies in tioning was required in our homeland. Europe. It was called lend-lease, and Food, cars and gasoline were in short our country took a chance and made supply and allocated by the federal the weapons on the prospect of getting government through stamps. paid for them later. Our economy was My family in Kansas City did not found to be very capable, and we pros- have a car, and I didn't know how to pered accordingly. One country we did drive when I enlisted at an early age not supply was Japan, and that caused in the Army. Sixteen million people them to force us into the conflict. served in our country’s military during We made weapons for ourselves the war. More than one million were as well as our allies, and overall output killed or wounded. I escaped that but was injured on duty and had to be Do you have these hospitalized for a period. How did it feel to go through the symptoms in your legs? Depression and World War II? I would • Restlessness • Heaviness say futile concerning the Depression. • Cramping • Swelling You knew the government was looking • Fatigue • Aching for a solution but couldn't find one. Call us today at 316-425-7980 The deprivation seemed universal. to schedule a free screening What people today may not know is that there was some improvement in Paul Cheatum, MD the economy in the late 1930s, giving specializing in the treatment some hope for a recovery — and then of varicose vein disease it dipped again. The feeling was that all Offices WestWichita, Wichita, Officesin inEast East and and West was lost and nobody knew what to do. DodgeCity, City,Emporia, Emporia, Dodge andWinfield, Winfield and Ponca City, OK
Yes, there was deprivation during the war, but it was lightened by purpose because the very existence of our nation was at stake. My belief is that there was more uniformity of belief and intentions of our American people then than in any other time in our history, with two very limited exceptions: those with a tie to one of our enemies and those who thought we just couldn’t win. The coronavirus pandemic is a challenge with strongly connected medical and economic concerns. The medical problem is that one person can easily become infected by another who exhibits no sign of having the virus. Once infected, a person’s health can degrade to the point of death. Age adversely affects a person’s resistance. Thus, concern about even casual associations between individuals leads to rigid rules of physical separation through social distancing and the use of masks. In the workplace, that affects productivity and profitability and may even put some concerns out of business. The solution to the Depression was presented to us: World War II. The best solution to a war is to win it, and we did. The solution to this pandemic is social distancing and other means of keeping the virus from spreading. Can we “oldies” be part of successfully confronting this current challenge? If we do, we’ll show we still deserve the label Greatest Generation. Harry Clements is a former aeronautical engineer, government official, businessman and teacher who joined the board of The Active Age earlier this year. He can be reached at harry.clements@yahoo.com.
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Survivor From Page 1
My first symptoms were in March. The dry cough that’s often mentioned as a sign of the disease was there. But it was spring when my mild allergies usually are a nuisance. And the first coughs weren’t much, just a little “excuse me” sort of hack. It didn’t seem unusual. It was that cough’s growing intensity that led me to the family physician. He took a thorough look, including chest X-rays. They showed a slight pneumonia infection. And he asked about other symptoms. Was my sense of taste or smell affected? No. What about shortness of breath? Only a bit if I went up and down stairs a few times. Still, he ordered a swab to check for the virus and prescribed antibiotics for the pneumonia, and I went home. The swab came back. It was negative. Since my age put me in the most vulnerable group where about one of every five Covid victims die, that was a relief. Unfortunately, my body didn’t believe it. Over a few days the cough worsened, to a point I
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couldn’t imagine. It was a racking, body-shaking cough more like a spasm or seizure that lasted half an hour or so. I was gasping to breathe. Every blood vessel in my head felt as if it was bursting. It left me exhausted, ribs feeling as if they’d been broken and the muscles in my chest so sore it hurt to breathe. To go with that, I had all the energy of a hub cap — sleeping untold hours — and a remarkable inability to concentrate. Reading is a lifelong habit, but even that was too much. And for the first time, I had a fever, not great but around 100-101 degrees. It came with chills and aches that felt like broken bones. All that sent me back to the doctor. He ordered a new test. This one was positive. That’s not news anyone wants. However, at least we knew what was wrong and could do something about it. My first stop toward notoriety was taken. The Sedgwick County Health Department was notified and called me. The very young voice on the phone asked a few questions and told me I was in quarantine until 72 hours after my last symptom. (No one explained how I’d know which symptom was
last.) The quarantine notice wasn’t bad. I’d already moved into a separate bedroom and bathroom to spare my wife. It was possible to go into the back yard away from everyone for some sunshine and fresh air. Toward the end I could stroll a mile without seeing anyone in the yard. But it took 15 laps to go a mile. I soon knew every blade of grass by name. The doctor was unusually attentive, calling or seeing me daily for about 10 days. He prescribed what turned out to be a disputed and politicized drug, hydroxychloroquine. Did it work? He said it would have been his choice if he was treating himself. The fact is, my symptoms started to subside after starting the treatment. In particular, the dreaded cough went away. Because of the drug or in spite of it, I got better. About five weeks after my first hacking cough, another sample was taken and examined by a lab. It was negative. Hallelujah! My encounter is a good reminder of how important it is to observe social distancing, wear masks and gloves in public and be sure to disinfect where the virus might lurk — door knobs, steering
to maintain strength. Perform arm curls or overhead presses with a can of food, heavy book or box of detergent (unopened!) Fill a backpack with items to increase intensity while walking. “They can squat a little bit if it doesn’t hurt their knees,” Rogers said. 4) Get outside. Walk or garden while maintaining social distancing from else who might be in the area. (Before starting an exercise program, it’s recommended to get advice from a physician.) 5) Just as important as staying active is staying socially, if not personally, connected with loved ones.
can’t gather with other people,” Rogers said, “but I mean we have, hopefully, a phone, and some people have the internet, and to call their friends and to check in on their friends.” “People love handwritten notes,” Rogers adds. “The art of writing cards to people has somewhat gone to the wayside.” 6) Finally, Rogers suggests find-
wheels and other places people touch. It also produces strong feelings about shoppers or employees who don’t wear masks. If the virus had flashing lights and a siren it would be okay to ignore the problem. But that’s not the case. Whoever called it an invisible enemy was right. There was a bright side to all this. As word of my illness spread, dozens of people from many parts of my past got in touch with calls, cards and emails. One neighbor even offered to cut our grass. That was more than encouraging. It breathed light into a dim period. Almost all said I was the only person they knew who had been afflicted. Hopefully that remains the case. I still feel the after effects. My stamina’s shot. A bit of exercise tires me. But otherwise just one problem remains — a hair cut. I look a bit like a ripe dandelion wearing a mask. Either I’m soon shorn or I get the name of Willie Nelson’s hair dresser. Bob Rives, the author of “Baseball in Wichita,” wrote this shortly before barbershops reopened. He can reached at bprives@gmail.com.
Six tips to staying healthy, happy at home By Kylie Cameron Staying home helps fend off COVID-19, but that doesn’t mean giving up physical activity. Nicole Rogers, chair of the Department of Public Health Sciences at Wichita State University, offered these tips: 1) Look up exercise videos you
can follow along with on YouTube. There are tons of free ones available that require little or no specialized equipment. 2) No internet? Climbing up and down your stairs a few times, enough to get your heart rate, is great exercise. 3) Resistance exercises with household items is also a good way
“Right now we’re isolated a bit, we
ing some way to serve others while staying safe.
“That brings joy to other people,” Rogers said, “and then that might bring joy to them, knowing that they’re helping somebody else out, and you know, that helps too, somebody that maybe is in a kind of worse situation
Walking your dog while maintaining social distancing is one way to get exercise. than you are.” Kylie Cameron is former editor of The Sunflower, the student newspaper at Wichita State University. This article is part of coronavirus coverage by the Wichita Journalism Collaboration.
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the active age
June 2020
Making history
Documentary filmmaker recalls controversy over gay rights ordinance and parade By Amy Geiszler-Jones Thirty years ago this month, Gregory Boyd filmed history in the making by documenting the genesis of Wichita’s first gay pride parade. He captured both sides of the story — organizers still fearful of anti-gay prejudice and violence and opponents led by the controversial Topeka figure Fred Phelps and his Westboro Baptist Church. While parades in other cities had been filmed, Boyd said, “They never showed what it took to get the parade on the streets. … And I decided that’s the story I wanted to tell.” To mark the anniversary — and because this year’s parade was canceled due to a ban on mass gatherings — Boyd is making his 82-minute documentary, “Parade Won! In the Pursuit of Pride,” available for free viewing on YouTube. Boyd, 66, calls himself a retired gay activist. June also marks the 50th anniversary of the first gay pride march in U.S. history, held in 1970 to commemorate the one-year anniversary of what’s known as the Stonewall Riots. Patrons of the Stonewall Inn in New York City’s Greenwich Village had fought back against a raid on the gay bar. One of the opening scenes of Boyd’s film features Phelps, pastor of Westboro Baptist Church in Topeka, unloading anti-gay signs from a van on May 10, 1990. Phelps had travelled to Wichita to protest a meeting of the parade planning committee, which was getting advice from parade organizers from other cities. It was one of Phelps’ first such protests. He became known for picketing various events, including U.S. military funerals. He claimed the soldiers’ deaths were part of God’s
punishment and natural for America’s lighting. That tolerance of style worked homosexuality. particularly At the well when time, Phelps Boyd was was running granted for governor unheard-of of Kansas and access to film welcomed the Wichita gay chance to be bar owners and interviewed, patrons. Since Boyd recalled. the bars were Years later, so dimly lit, Boyd shared the subjects’ the footage faces could with proremain in ducers of the half-shadow. ABC News “No camshow “20/20,” eras had ever which aired a been allowed Gregory Boyd segment by reporter inside those bars John Stossel on the Westboro church. before because those were still the days Boyd was part of the inaugural of random assaults, broken windshields parade’s planning committee until he and tires, and few people wanted to be became the designated documentarian. seen on camera,” said Boyd. It was a story he wanted to share with The film includes reactions from others who were planning pride pathe general public, airing what Boyd rades in their communities — to show calls “really hateful” comments that had them the conversations and arguments come into a KFH radio show when the that happened behind the scenes. parade was a featured topic. His only other experience with a The documentary was never meant camera had come shooting 20 minutes to be shown commercially, Boyd said, of 8mm footage of a 1985 San Franso limited copies were initially made cisco parade for Hal Call, a decorated on VHS tapes. In 2004, Boyd convertWorld War II veteran and an outspoed the film to DVD and today has only ken gay activist. Boyd, who lived in one remaining copy. San Francisco between 1978 and 1988, Boyd said the film has only been described Call as one of his mentors. released twice before: in 1992 when it In Wichita, Boyd shot more than was submitted to the San Diego Gay/ 10 hours of footage between April and Lesbian Film Festival and won DocuJune 1990, using the style of cinema mentary of the Year, and in 2004 when verité — in which subjects are shot he submitted the DVD to the Tallgrass with unscripted dialogue and action Film Festival. It was rejected for “technical flaws,” Boyd said. The original footage was donated to the Bruce McKinney Collection at the University of Kansas Spencer Library. McKinney, a well-known Wichita activist, had collected oral histories and other documentation of gay and lesbian life in Kansas. McKinney died in February. It was McKinney who got Boyd
involved in several early pivotal events within the Wichita gay-and-lesbian community. They, along with the Homophile Alliance of Sedgwick County, circulated petitions to get a gay rights City of Wichita ordinance on a special ballot that was narrowly passed in September 1977. The original ordinance vote is why Wichita has a second pride event in September, Boyd explained. Gay anti-discrimination ordinances were being passed throughout the country in the 1970s in such places as Cincinnati, Phoenix, Ann Arbor, Mich., and St. Paul, Minn., Boyd said. The ordinances were opposed by organizations such as Jerry Falwell’s Moral Majority and Anita Bryant’s Save Our Children. In Wichita, the repeal efforts were led by Baptist minister Rev. Ron Adrian and his Concerned Citizens for Community Standards, according to news articles from that time. Boyd participated in picketing one of Adrian’s rallies at Century II. The Wichita ordinance was overwhelmingly repealed in a special election in May 1978. That vote caused “ripples all the way back to San Francisco,” Boyd said, noting that Harvey Milk, the first openly gay elected official in California, organized a protest around it. Boyd, too, felt the effects of the repeal, deciding to leave Wichita for San Francisco where he met many of the movement’s “movers and shakers,” such as Call, who had been gay rights activists going back to the 1950s. He remembers meeting Diane Feinstein, now a U.S. senator but at the time the San Francisco mayor, in the City Hall cafeteria. Boyd had joined Harry Britt, whom he was dating at the time, for lunch. Britt was Milk’s successor to the city’s Board of Supervisors after Milk was assassinated. Boyd also recalled seeing Nancy Pelosi handing out election flyers on a San Francisco street when she ran for her first Congressional election. It wasn’t until he left for California See next page
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June 2020 that he confirmed to his parents and family what they had suspected: he was gay. “My family had a ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ approach,” said Boyd, even though his name had appeared in some news stories about gay activism. His own recognition of his sexuality was a slow one, he said. He grew up in the Wichita area and graduated from Andover high school. Boyd, who has three older siblings, said, “I was a little bit of an oddball.” He was fascinated with news, history, art and theater. As a preteen, he read the Warren Commission report on President Kennedy’s assassination. As a teen, he devoured the writings of classic philosophers. After high school, he got involved with the local theater community. He started corresponding with well-known Hollywood makeup artist Dick Smith to get advice on doing stage makeup. (Boyd’s small col-
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lection of life masks includes two that Smith made when working with actors Marlon Brando and Buster Keaton.)
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Boyd returned to Wichita in 1988 for a quieter pace of life and work in sales, he said.
After making the 1990 “Parade Won!” documentary, Boyd still dabbled in the theater, writing plays. Wichita Community Theatre staged his play on Truman Capote entering heaven, called “Angels Wanted, Halos Optional.” His one-act play “The Archive,” which was based on conversations he’d had with friends following the Oklahoma City bombing, won an award in a New York City competition and was produced “way off ” Broadway, he said. His activism had been motivated by that youthful ambition of “wanting to change the world,” Boyd said. He retired from activism in the local LGBTQ community more than a decade ago, he said. “Being gay wasn’t something that consumed me. It was just a small part of me as a whole.” Contact Amy Geiszler-Jones at algj64@sbcglobal.net.
Social Security offers lump sum payouts to retirees Dear Savvy Senior, In light of the stock market crashing, I’ve heard that Social Security offers a lump-sum payment to new retirees who need some extra cash. I have not yet filed for my retirement benefits and would like to investigate this option. What can you tell me? Seeking Cash
Dear Seeking, There is indeed a little-known Social Security claiming strategy that’s been around for many years that can provide retirees a lump-sum benefit, but you need to be past your full retirement age to be eligible, and there are financial drawbacks you need to be aware of too. First, let’s review the basics. Remember that while workers can begin drawing their Social Security retirement benefits anytime between ages 62 and 70, full retirement age is 66 for those born between 1943 and 1954, but it rises in two-month increments to 67 for those born in 1960 and later. You can find your full retirement age at SSA.gov/pubs/ageincrease.htm. At full retirement age, you are entitled to 100 percent of your benefits. But if you claim earlier, your benefits will be reduced by 5 to 6.66 percent
every year you start before your full retirement age. While if you delay taking your benefits beyond your full retirement age, you’ll get 8 percent more each year until age 70. Lump Sum Option If you are past full retirement age, and have not yet filed for your benefits, the Social Security Administration offers a retroactive lump-sum payment that’s worth six months of benefits. Here’s how it works. Let’s say for example that you were planning to delay taking your Social Security benefits past your full retirement age of 66, but you changed your mind at 66 and six months. You could then claim a lump-sum payment equal to those six months of benefits. So, for instance, if your full retirement age benefit was $2,500 per month, you would be entitled to a $15,000 lump sum payment. If you decided at age 66 and three months that you wanted to file retroactively, you’d get only three months’ worth of benefits in your lump sum,
income plus half of your Social Security benefits – exceeds $25,000, and up to 85 percent of benefits are taxable because SSA rules proif combined income exceeds $34,000. hibit you from claiming For married couples, the comparable benefits that pre-date your full retirement age. income thresholds for taxing benefits are $32,000 and $44,000. Drawbacks To help you calculate this, see The downside to this strategy is that once you IRS Publication 915 “Social Security accept a lump-sum payment, you’ll lose and Equivalent Railroad Retirement Benefits” at IRS.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p915. the delayed retirement credits you’ve pdf, or call 800-829-3676 and ask them accrued, and your future monthly to mail you a copy. retirement benefit will be reduced to In addition, if the lump-sum reflect the amount you already received. payment of retroactive Social SecuriIt will also affect your future survivor benefit to your spouse or other eligible ty benefits boosts your yearly income beyond the $85,000 level, it will family members after you die. increase your future Medicare premiYou also need to consider Uncle ums too. See Medicare.gov/Pubs/pdSam. Depending on your income, Social Security benefits may be taxable, f/11579-medicare-costs.pdf for details. and a lump-sum payment could boost Send your senior questions to: Savvy the amount of benefits that are taxed. The federal government taxes up to Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim 50 percent of Social Security benefits Miller is a contributor to the NBC at ordinary income tax rates if your combined income – defined as adjusted Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book. gross income plus nontaxable interest
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Clusters
May, according to office staff. He did not respond to emails from The Active Age. From Page 1 The Clearwater nursing facility fair question, because we have a lot received critical government reviews in of nursing homes,” Sedgwick County 2019 and 2020. Health Department Director Adrienne In spring 2019 — before Novotny Byrne said. took control — the state announced it Byrne also can’t say how the virus would impose denial of new Medicare/ entered those three cluster sites. The three have different for-profit Medicaid admissions at Clearwater until it was in substantial compliance. owners, who also operate other faciliSurveyors found in 2019 that the ties. They don’t fit in a mold, although facility failed to plan interventions to each has had health inspection defiprevent further falls for a resident. A ciencies. For example, Clearwater is a bathroom call light was logged at over 69-licensed-bed nursing facility that accepts Medicare/Medicaid and sits on 100 minutes, one of numerous extended call light times blamed on a staff a side street in a town with a popushortage. It was fined $54,493. lation of 2,533. It was identified as a In January 2020, when Novotny’s cluster on April 17. company was operating Clearwater, Chisholm Place is a 66-licensed-bed assisted living memory care staff and residents told a surveyor the facility that does not accept Medicare/ center was not sufficiently staffed, according to reports on Medicare.gov Medicaid. It is located in an affluent One CMA on Clearwater’s staff urban area, with a plastic surgery center reported that the evening shift was as a nearby neighbor. It was identified often unable to complete baths or as a cluster on April 29. showers for residents and clean wheelPark West also isn’t shown as a chairs due to lack of staff. One resident Medicare/Medicaid facility, and it is licensed for 80 assisted living beds and failed to receive a bath or shower for a nine-day period in January. 40 nursing beds on a west Wichita Staff levels cratered on Jan. 14, campus. It was identified as a cluster 2020, described by staff to the surveyor on May 4. as “mass chaos,” the report said. The three centers represent a When the surveyor asked a fraction of that industry in Sedgwick resident about that day, she became County, where there are 5,086 licensed anxious and said, “Please help us. No adult care home beds, according to the one else seems to care,” according to Kansas Department for Aging and the report. Disability Services. Novotny’s wife, Michelle Novotny, is the chief nursing officer for ClearInspection issues water. Willie and Michelle Novotny Clearwater surfaced first as a clusare the two officers in their Cornerter, even though it restricted visitors stone Employment Solutions Inc., a more than a week before the first coronavirus case was reported in Sedgwick nursing staffing agency found on the Internet at Cornerstone Healthcare County on March 20. Solutions. Because staff continue to “come By April 18, a dozen Clearwaand go,” said Byrne, the suspicion is ter facility residents stricken by the that it must have been a staff member coronavirus had been transported to who brought the virus into the Clearthe hospital and two had died. Willie water facility. “But,” she said, “we don’t Novotny wrote that day in a statement know.” — still posted in May at the ClearwaTracking the source is difficult ter facility’s entrance — that they had because of the 14-day incubation period for the virus and because a person brought in staff reinforcements because exposed to the virus can be asymptom- some Clearwater staff “quit out of an abundance of caution, or fear,” and atic, Byrne said. some had been sent home because they The top corporate executive for Clearwater Living LLC is Willie No- tested positive or showed symptoms of votny, who was self-quarantined in his the virus. Chisholm Place did not hire its Manhattan, Kan.-area home in early
June 2020
staff through the Novotny's Cornerstone agency, according to Laura Kislowski, vice president of sales and marketing for Anthem Memory Care, Lake Oswego, Oregon. Kislowski also said Chisholm Place Photo by Mary Clarkin did not know how Residents and staff of Chisholm Place tested posithe virus entered. tive for Covid-19. The most said in early May they have had no recent survey reports for Chisholm coronavirus cases at Wichita PresbyPlace on the Kansas Department for terian Manor, but “quite frankly, any Aging and Disability Services’ website one of our communities could have a date back to 2018. They list failures COVID case at any moment,” she said. to ensure development of a written, They are taking extreme caution negotiated service agreement for each and are not wavering “on any of that resident and to ensure medications protocol whatsoever,” Wolfe said. That were administered to each resident in includes daily screening of employees, accordance with procedures. stringent limits on visitation and no Also, the reports show deficiencies new admissions since March 13. Wolfe in record-keeping for employees that said staffing remains steady. included failure to request a criminal “I think, though, that background check or to verify with the communities that had staffing Kansas nurse aide registry that the inchallenges going into this are seeing a dividual did not have a negative record. greater staffing challenge,” Wolfe said. Also, there was a lack of documenta“If you're not already in health care, tion of tuberculosis testing at the time it’s unlikely you’ll get into it for fear of employment, the report stated. that you might get COVID or bring it A survey in 2019 cited infection home to your family.” control deficiencies at Park West, acAs of May 15, there were 24 cluscording to the Department for Aging ters in long-term care facilities across and Disability Services’ data. the state, accounting for 96 of the The property failed to ensure a state’s overall 172 COVID deaths. sanitary environment by failing “to Hutchinson said she was “utterreplace air filters on floor vents which ly shocked” when her mother tested were visibly soiled and failure to clean positive for COVID-19. Her sympa ceiling vent in the beauty shop, which toms were limited to a low-grade fever, had dust debris on it and hanging minor congestion and a few days of down,” the report stated. Also, the extreme fatigue. inspection found a failure to properly “I’ve watched and they have folstore soiled resident clothing and to lowed the protocols for stemming the ensure laundry staff followed procespread of infection,” she said. dures. It also said the facility “failed Staff helps residents stay connectto ensure staff served food in a sanied with family through social media, tary and hygienic manner to prevent Hutchinson said, and when Rowley cross-contamination.” turned 94 on May 2, they helped the family — looking through the window Vigilance required from the outside — celebrate it with Wichita Presbyterian Manor her, she said. employs about 175 people and serves This story was produced as part of roughly 225 residents on its campus at the Wichita Journalism Collaborative, a 4700 W. 13th St. It made the Departpartnership of seven news organizations. ment for Aging and Disability Services’ The effort is supported by the Solutions desired “zero deficiencies” list in 2019. Journalism Network and funded by The Executive director Courtney Wolfe Knight Foundation.
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Arkansas River Path great way to experience city By Joe Stumpe I’ve biked the Arkansas River Path so many times I could probably do it in my sleep — although that would not be safe. But seriously, what keeps me coming back? In addition to exercise, it’s a way to take in much of what makes Wichita unique in an hour or two, without fighting for road space with automobiles. The path can be accessed from many points, but let’s consider it as if starting from its northern terminus, Big Arkansas River Park at 3900 W. 21st St. This part of the river features sandbars and much waterfowl, and the park has an informative display on the Big Ditch water diversion project and the man who created it, Mitch “Big Ditch” Mitchell. Heading south and east along the river, the path travels under bridges on Amidon Street and 13th street. Here the path splits – one side winding along the west bank of the river, adjacent to McClean Boulevard, and the other hugging the east bank, skirting close by Sim Park and Old Cowtown Museum’s frontier era buildings. Short spurs will take you to Botanica, the Wichita Art Museum and Riverside Park, and bridges at Central and Seneca allow you to cross the river. To avoid vehicle traffic altogether in this area, take the west bank path, which passes under Seneca. Paths on both banks of the river continue past the Mid-America All-Indian Center and the towering Keeper of the Plains sculpture and plaza, always worth an appreciative pause. The east bank offers access to Veterans Memorial Park with its numerous monuments, while the west side passes through the Exploration Place grounds (a short diversion uphill leads to the
Photo by Joe Stumpe
A friend of the author, Dave Gear, crosses the Arkansas River on a path in South Wichita.
city’s new main library). here to look back north. It’s one of the The dual paths continue to roll on prettiest views available of downtown. through downtown. On the west you’ll The east-side path ends just south find new riverfront apartments, the of Lincoln Street, connecting there new minor-league baseball stadium with another path that runs east along and easy access to the Delano shopping railroad tracks to the Kansas Firefightand dining area centered along Dougers Museum on south Broadway (you las. The east path zooms by the historic must cross Market, Main and several Broadview Hotel, Century II, the Hymore streets to get there). att’s water fountain wall and Wichita If you want to continue south — Boathouse. Turn east at the 1st Street and I recommend it — cross to the bridge and it’s a quick five-minute ride west bank at Lincoln. You’ll pass Harry along a marked lane to the Old Town (where there’s a new bridge under conentertainment district. struction) and Pawnee before reaching This part of the river is busier than O.J. Watson Park with its ponies, minever before. Expect find iature train, fishing and sand volleyball NO T HtoI N Gwalkers, skateboarders, sunbathers, fishermen, courts. Cross the river again at the C O M Pand AR E S T O TJohn H EMack Bridge (second largest conboaters, sweethearts more. From downtown, paths follow crete bridge of its kind in the United SIMPLE PLEASURE both sides of the river south to Lincoln Street, bridge, O where F R Ithere’s D I Na G A dam and fish ladder (I’ve never seen BICY LE . but any fish actually useCthis ladder, the number this - JofOfishermen H N F . in KE N area NEDY make me think they do). Take a second
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States), curl under south Broadway and the path continues along the east bank, bending under a cool old wooden trestle bridge on its way to Garvey Park, site of a thriving community garden. The path used to end here, but in recent years it’s been extended via a gorgeous section that runs through woods along the river, under Interstate 135 and Hydraulic, to emerge just north of Chapin Park and the Starlite Drive-In. Here another path waits, with views of Chapin’s dog park and a field popular with model airplane enthusiasts. From Chapin it’s a short jaunt east along MacArthur, where the path crosses the river one last time. From here it's possible to hook up with the Gypsum Creek path running northeast through Wichita and eventually complete a loop around much of the city. But that’s another story. Tips • The Arkansas River Path is popular with walkers, too, so be prepared to share. • Bring water, sunscreen and a hat, as there is not much shade along the path. • The main part of the Arkansas River Path is about 10 miles long, with a few short hills around bridges. • Copies of the Greater Wichita Bike Map are available at City Hall, libraries, bicycle shops and other locations, and also at wichita.gov/bicycle.
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Page 13
Patience and creativity important ingredients in garden By Janice Sroufe The past couple of months have been both delightful and exasperating for me. Staying at home has allowed me to work on projects that I thought I would never have time to do, but trying to stay away from friends and family and the inability to travel or go shopping has been frustrating. As before in difficult times, my garden has comforted and challenged me. I’ve had the opportunity to look around my garden very carefully, identifying areas that I like and realizing that some plants are in the wrong place or have spread beyond their allotted space. A new garden has been created with the idea of reducing my turf grass by about 25 percent and incorporating some native plants and other specimens that require less water, fertilizer and weed killer. Some of those plants that were in the wrong place now have a new environment. I am reminded that in spite of all of our meticulous preparation, some things do not happen as we expect. Like running out to the nurseries and garden centers every few days just to wander around a few hours and purchase a couple more plants — not a good idea this year. My trips have been limited and very well planned — early
Gardening
in the morning or the “call ahead and drive by and pick up” kind. I had a huge pile of dirt dumped on my driveway, but the delivery guy didn’t even get out of the truck. The dirt pile was great in this stay-at-home time. It gave me several days of exercise moving dirt, raking dirt and carefully placing rocks around to hold the dirt in place (with the help of neighbors and a grandson). It also provided a wonderful playground for my two young grandsons. They had a blast digging, playing with their trucks and dinosaurs, climbing and rolling around in the soft dirt and then cleaning up in the sprinkler. Thank goodness the day was warm.
Now the dirt is distributed to the new garden and various other spots in my yard where needed. Rocks I collected over the years are moved into place and quite a lot of the planting has been done, with more to come as I come across the right varieties. Overall, this period at home has been productive. Working in my front yard has given me a chance to visit with neighbors and people walking by. Everyone wants to talk about gardening right now. What a wonderful subject! The garden may not have all of the
newest cultivars available at the garden center this year, but it will have plants. Maybe some of the more beautiful vegetables like Swiss chard, purple lettuce and rhubarb will find their way into the flower garden, or there may be some rather weedy plants, like common milkweed and milk thistle in the pollinator garden. The world may be unpredictable right now, but the garden still grows and continues to make me happy. Janice Sroufe is a Sedgwick County Master Gardener. She can reached at janice.sro@gmail.com.
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June 2020
Celebrations Sylvia and Duane Wilkinson back where they started On May 15, 1965, Sylvia Resa and Duane Wilkinson were married at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Wichita. Sylvia graduated from St. Mary’s Cathedral High School and Duane graduated from East High, both in 1961. For 40 years they lived in and around San Diego. Sylvia retired as an area supervisor from the California DMV and Duane retired as a supervisor from the County of San Diego District Attorney’s Office. They moved to Green Valley, Arizona, and enjoyed 15 years of doing whatever they wanted — mostly traveling all over the world. Now they have returned to Wichita, built a new home here and celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary where it all started. Friends and family are excited to have them back in town and welcomed the opportunity to celebrate their anniversary with them.
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June 2020
the active age
Celebrations
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Income Based for elderly or mobility-impaired only
Almond Tree Apartments
Smiths celebrate 59th anniversay
339 Country Acres
Great West Wichita Neighborhood Professionally managed by Weigand-Omega
Call Today! 722-5336 Evelyn Kato
Evelyn Kato, 105, tries to inspire others
Evelyn Kato turned 105 years old on May 8. Kato received her nursing degree in 1936 and practiced her profession in Dallas, Oklahoma City, Chattanooga and elsewhere. Her first husband died during World War II and she raised two daughters, working until she was 80 years old. Since retirement, Kato has taken up art, producing sculptures, drawings and paintings. She credits faith for her happiness and hopes to inspire other “elderly folk” to keep active. The key, she said, is “doing something new to increase your brain capacity.” She resides in the independent living area of Via Christi Village on Georgetown. Send her cards at 1655 S Georgetown, Wichita, KS, 67218.
Eugene and Betty Smith Eugene D. Smith and Betty A Smith celebrated their 59th wedding anniversary on April 16, 2020. The couple have one daughter, Kathy Williams, and her husband, Earl; a grandson, Christopher Williams, and his wife, Kellie; and a granddaughter, Alexandria Williams.
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June 2020
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June 2020
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Page 17
WSU sculpture collection: a walk to savor Sitting on Wichita State’s campus is an outdoor sculpture collection that provides exercise and cultural enrichment. And with in-person classes at the school currently on hold, there may never be a quieter time to enjoy it. It takes about two miles of walking to see all 80 works in the collection, which are spread around the campus. There is seating and shade available near most works. One of the bestknown works is the “Millie the Millipede” sculpture by Wichita-native Tom Otterness, which sits just south of the Ulrich Museum. Other works include “Love” by Robert Indiana, “Sodbuster: San Isidro” by Luis Alfonso Jimenez and a kinetic sculpture outside the Grace Memorial Chapel by George Rickey. To help guide you through the walk, the Ulrich offers a free down-
Asbury Park is offering Independent Living Rental Cottages, Patio Homes, Assisted Living, Skilled Nursing / Long-term Care, Green House Homes, Rapid Rehabilitation, Shear Generations, Hair Salon, and So Much More! loadable app as well as a printable map. The app provides information about each sculpture as well. If you’d rather wing it, there are clusters of works around the Ulrich, the Duerksen Fine Arts Center, Morrison Hall, Grace Memorial Chapel and the Ablah Library.
– Kylie Cameron
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Come and experince Asbury Park for yourself. Be prepared to be impressed!
For more information or to schedule a personalized tour, please call today! 200 SW 14th St. Newton KS (316) 283-4770 www.asbury-park.org
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the active age
June 2020
Newton woman puts extra time to tasty use By Joe Stumpe A Newton woman expanded her culinary horizons during the coronavirus pandemic. Is it any wonder that someone whose last name is Kitchen-McKinney enjoys cooking? Speaking of names, she goes by Kevin, her middle name. “I was supposed to be my big brother’s little brother. I’ve met two other women with the same name.” Regarding her cooking during the downtime, Kitchen-McKinney said: “I prepared two recipes that I had never made before. The first one, that I made up, is my version of Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken.” “My husband really likes it,” she
added. “The second one is a German dish that my paternal grandma and aunts used to make and has always been one of my favorite dishes. I watched them make these many a time, yet had never made them myself.” The recipe came with her ancestors from Freiburg in southwest Germany’s Black Forest via German colonies in the Russian Empire to immigrant Volga German communities on the Great Plains. Kitchen-McKinney consulted a Volga German cookbook for the accompanying recipe “but did change up the recipe to how I watched our family prepare them.”
Fiesta Lime Chicken
Boneless chicken breasts or tenders Swiss cheese Salsa Doritos, crushed Lime juice Directions: Bake chicken at 350 degrees about 15 minutes or until almost done, turning once. Remove from oven and top each piece with a slice of cheese. Add a tablespoon of salsa, some crushed Doritos and a squirt of lime juice. Return to oven for 5 minutes or until cheese has melted and chicken is cooked through.
Kase Maultaschen (Cheese-filled Pockets)
2 cups flour 2 eggs, lightly beaten ½ teaspoon salt 4 tablespoons milk 12 oz. dry curd cottage cheese Salt and pepper, to taste 1 egg, beaten 3 slices bread, toasted and cut into cubes ¼ cup oil ¼ cup chopped onions 8 oz. sour cream Boiled potatoes, for serving Directions: To make dough, combine flour, eggs, salt and milk. Knead until smooth; dough should be moist but not sticky. Let sit 10 minutes. Meanwhile, make filling by combining cottage cheese, salt and pepper and egg in a bowl. Turn dough out onto a floured board and roll 1/8 inch thick. Cut dough into 4-inch squares and place a heaping tablespoon of filling mixture. Bring the corners of each square together and pinch the edges together securely. Drop the filled pockets into a large kettle of boiling water, cooking until they rise to the top plus two minutes longer. When done, remove with a slotted spoon and place in a dish in a warm oven while preparing the topping. For the topping, heat oil in a skillet set over medium heat. Saute onions, adding bread cubes when onions are almost done. Pour over the cheese pockets, fold in sour cream and serve with boiled potatoes.
Benton woman wins cookbook
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Congratulations to Theresa Bills of Benton, who won our drawing for a cookbook. Here’s her recipe for Early Spring Salad. Early Spring Salad 2 cups (7 oz.) spiral or shell macaroni, cooked and drained 1½ cups (6 oz.) cubed Monterey Jack cheese 2 cups broccoli cut into 1-inch pieces, steamed if desired 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 1 cup cucumber slices, halved ¾ cup Italian dressing Directions: Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Chill several hours before serving.
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June 2020
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Page 19
An interesting (yawn) take on boredom (zzzzz) By Ted Blankenship I’m guessing that some of you find this column — I hesitate to mention it — boring. As a responsible columnist, I take that seriously. So, rather than try to write a scintillating column, which obviously would be difficult for me, I’m going to write about how to enjoy the column without becoming bored. I know you probably have concluded that I’m advising you not to read the column. Nothing could be further from the truth. If you don’t read the column, how are you going to find out how to combat the boredom you get from reading the column? I may have to work on this sentence a bit. I don’t like to admit it, but sometimes I get a little bored writing the column. Today is no exception. So,
to avoid boredom, I decided to do a little research. Unfortunately, there isn’t a lot of information on the subject, maybe because it’s so boring. I did turn up the fact that there actually is a town in Oregon named Boring. So, I decided to look into why it’s so boring that it was named Boring. It turns out that although it truly may be boring, its name has nothing to do with boredom. It was named after William H. Boring, a Civil War veteran who came from Illinois. I know you’re probably wondering whether Boring is boring. Well, it’s in Clakamas County, which is named after the Native Americans who live in
Swing back to the ‘60s with this quiz
By Nancy Wheeler The 1960’s brought tremendous improvements to Wichita, including a new zoo, library and Art Association building. Take this quiz to see what else you remember about Wichita during the Swinging 60s. The answers appear on page 27. 1. The Wichita State Shockers basketball team made its first Final
Four appearance in 1965. Who defeated them in the semi-final game of the championship? 2. What was constructed on the former site of the Wichita Forum? 3. On Dec. 8, 1966, Ike and Tina Turner appeared at what performance venue? 4. What architectural structure was completed on April 19, 1963,
Elizabeth (Betsy) Lea Henry
Henry & Mathewson, P.A. 310 W 205 ••Wichita Wichita 449 N. Central McLeanSte Blvd.
316-201-6868 316-263-7770
Practice focusing on Wills, Trusts, Guardianships, Conservatorships, Estate Planning and Family Law. More than 30 years of practice. “If getting to us is too difficult, I will come to you.”
Transforming Lives
the area. I mean no disrespect, but it seems to me that someone was frightfully bored when he or she could only come up with Clakamas for the name of the county they lived in. But residents found a way to sidestep boredom. They found lively names for some of the other towns in the county—such as Needy, Wankers Corner and Zigzag. Can you imagine the conversation when a local meets someone new? “Hi! Where y’all from?” “Wankers Corner.” “Where’s that?” “Clakamas County.” I’m no philosopher (you didn’t know this?) but I think we have become so enamored of “technology” that we have too much time. And, because we have given up reading
anything bigger than a cellphone screen, we are bored. English author Susan Ertz put it well, I think. She wrote that “. . . millions long for immortality who don’t know what to do with themselves on a rainy Sunday afternoon.” So, the next time it rains on Sunday and you don’t know what to do with yourself, read one of my old columns. You may be bored to death, but you’ll have something to do. And as for immortality, be careful. Once you attain it, it’s hard to get rid of. I don’t know how much reading Forrest Gump did, but if he had read some of my old columns, he might have said, “Boring is as Boring does.” Whatever that means. Contact Ted at tblankenship@cox. net.
connecting the Fourth National Bank & Trust Building and the Wichita Plaza? 5. What kind of pedestrian sign that allowed people to walk in all directions (even diagonally) was utilized at the corner of Broadway and William? 6. A fire at what Chevrolet dealership on Nov. 21, 1968, resulted in the single largest loss of life for the Wichita Fire Department? 7. The Cotillion opened in December 7, 1960. What group played on opening night? 8. In 1964, which Wichita high school athlete set what record that would stand for 37 years?
9. The Corbin Education Center on the WSU campus was designed by the renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright and dedicated in 1964. Who picked out the terra cotta, turquoise, and black color scheme? 10. In 1960, Friends University changed their mascot to Freddy Falcon. What served as the mascot before that change? 11. On January 16, 1965, tragedy killed 30 people in and around Piatt Street in northeast Wichita. What happened? 12. The president of what western wear company said: “Never a man was ever born that didn’t have a little cowboy in him"?
Simple Quality
GutteRiNG
Elizabeth (Betsy) Lea Henry Henry & Mathewson, P.A.
449 N. McLean Blvd. • Wichita
316-263-7770
Practice focusing on Wills, Trusts, Guardianships, Conservatorships, Estate Planning and Family Law. More than 30 years of practice. “If getting to usadult, is too difficult, will to you.” If you’re a caregiver of an older don’t forget to Itake carecome of yourself. Join us at one of our free, monthly caregiver support groups for encouragement and education. East Wichita: Prairie View-Legacy Park, 9333 E. 21st St. N, 3:00-4:30 pm, 1st Tuesday West Wichita: Prairie View-Reflection Ridge, 7570 W. 21st St. N, Suite 1026-D, 3:00-4:30 pm, 3rd Tuesday Harvey County: Prairie View-Newton, 1901 E. First St., 3:00-4:30 p.m., 2nd Thursday
Call us at 1-800-992-6292 www.prairieview.org
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• Installation Active Aging • Repair Proof Approval check your ad carefully and • Cleaning Please check off the applicable boxes and to indicate your acceptance. • All Home initial Improvements
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An e-mail confirmation is fine if no changes needed. iceNSed NSuRed ____ Check offer foR youR pRotectioN ____ Check name, address, phone ____ Check expiration dates ____ Proof Satisfactory (no changes) __________ Advertiser initials You can fax your approval or corrections to us at 946-9180
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June 2020
Soaring spirit
When aircraft from McConnell Air Force Base soared overhead last month in a tribute to those fighting the coronavirus, Roberta Seiwert Lampe couldn’t help feeling thankful. Thankful for medical personnel, first responders and others on the frontline of the battle. Thankful for the pilots and base personnel who made the air show possible. And thankful for memories it rekindled. Here’s the letter she penned to Col. Richard Tanner, commander of the 22nd Air Refueling Wing at McConnell. Hello Col. Tanner, I love airplanes, ships, trains — anything that travels. And in my younger years, from 1956-59, my dream of travel was fulfilled as a member of the Women’s Air Corps. Watching your beautiful big planes brought back memories. And the more that returned, the more I had to smile. I was raised in Garden Plain. My dad had to sign my enlistment papers. Having no brothers and with me being the oldest daughter, you can imagine what a jolt that was to him. World War II had ended not too many years before. He finally said, “I’ll sign your papers, but if you don’t like it, don’t come crying to me.” My answer: “Don’t worry, I won’t.” I wanted to join the Air Force but their recruiter thought I was too young to work in Public Information. Because I’d written for publications, the Army agreed to send me to Public Information School. So it was off to basic training at Fort McClellan, Ala., then to Public Information School at Fort Slocum, on Long Island Sound near New Rochelle, N.Y., all by various means of travel. If one of the girls from basic training, originally from Massachusetts, had not come with me, I would still be trying to get out of Grand Central Station. Then on to Fort Knox, Ky., to the Armor School Headquarters for 13 months. Just thought about a person I worked with at Ft. Knox, a really strange little bird whose name I was to be reminded of later – Harlan Ellison. He asked me once if I wanted to read the story he was writing, about a machine that mass-produced women. Told him I wasn’t interested. Years later, he was on a talk show, a writer of 140-plus books and one of the most popular episodes of “Star Trek.” How about that? He just passed away five months ago, at age 84. After Knox, orders came for Germany. By bus then to Fort Dix, then to nearby McGuire AFB. On the way, visited Constitution Hall in Philadelphia, although it was raining like crazy. Then for 17 months to Frankfurt am Main, Germany, a dream fulfilled. But first Newfoundland, for refueling. Landed in the dark, and colder than blazes in late November. They had cleared the runway and we walked through snow banks probably 12 feet high to a small building to wait. Then it was back through the snow tunnel and onto the plane, the sun rising beautifully in the east and us flying between clouds above and below us. And then Prestwick, Scotland, again for refueling, and another very small wooden building, encircled by a fence, near a pasture and a farmer’s cows taking it all in. Our next landing: Rhein Main Air Base in Frankfurt, shared by the U.S. military and the city. Frankfurt was not the major European hub it is www.theactiveage.com
today. They barely had Frankfurt rebuilt. I worked for Public Information, Northern Area Command, located in the IG Farben Building, once the home of the largest chemical company in the world, and Eisenhower’s headquarters in 1945. It was a huge, fabulous building, with an equally huge club for Courtesy photos the company. Roberta Lampe as a WAC, Love it there, above, and in Garden Plain I did. today. Another adventure: Ann, a friend in my detachment, and I contacted the Air Base for a possible hop on one of their planes to London. We were assigned to a cargo plane. Wooden benches along the sides to sit, parachutes strapped to our backs, with instructions, if we had to ditch in the English Channel, to kick off shoes and head for the door. Fourteen young men also hitching a ride — and good-looking! But the real thrill: all those huge cartons of cargo strapped down the middle of the plane. Please Lord, don’t let those straps break. The plane landed at an air base about 65 miles from London, then we took a train into the city. We met some English sailors who directed us to the subway for the military hotel. When we got there, the clerk asked, “Did you come on the tube?” I stammered while Ann answered, “Roberta, yes, the tube!” The hotel was near London’s beautiful Hyde Park. We met some English folks there who were real memory makers. We returned via the ferry across the English Channel, through Holland and then “home” to Germany. I did lots of traveling over there, as I also did here in the United States. And no, Dad, I did not regret it at all. Roberta Seiwert Lampe lives in Garden Plain. She is the author of “Two Farm Cats,” “Prairie Dog Pet” and other books.
June 2020
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Calendar of Events Sedgwick County Senior Centers
Note to readers: Senior center schedules and other events normally listed on this page are expected to be affected by the coronavirus through much of June. For information, call the numbers listed below. BEL AIRE 7651 E Central Park Ave 744-2451, ext 121 www.belaireks.org BENTLEY/EAGLE 504 W Sterling, 796-0027 CHENEY 516 Main, 542-3721 CLEARWATER 921 E Janet, 584-2332 DERBY 611 N Mulberry Rd, 788-0223 www.derbyweb.com DOWNTOWN 200 S Walnut, 267-0197 www.seniorservicesofwichita.org EDGEMOOR 5815 E 9th, 688-9392
GARDEN PLAIN 1006 N Main, 535-1155 GODDARD 120 N Main, 794-2441 HAYSVILLE 160 E Karla, 529-5903 KECHI Kechi City Building, 744-0217, 744-1271 LA FAMILIA 841 W 21st, 267-1700 LINWOOD 1901 S Kansas, 263-3703 www.seniorservicesofwichita.org MCADAMS GOLDEN AGE 1329 E 16th, 337-9222 MT HOPE 105 S Ohio, 667-8956
ANDOVER 410 Lioba Dr, 733-4441 www.andoverks.com AUGUSTA 640 Osage, 775-1189
CASSODAY Cassoday Senior Center 133 S. Washington, 620-735-4538
BENTON Lion’s Community Bldg, S Main St
EL DORADO 210 E 2nd, 321-0142
MULVANE 632 E Mulvane, 777-4813 NORTHEAST 2121 E 21st, 269-4444
www.seniorservicesofwichita.org
OAKLAWN 2937 Oaklawn Dr, 524-7545 ORCHARD PARK 4808 W 9th, 942-2293 seniorservicesofwichita.org PARK CITY 6100 N Hydraulic, 744-1199 VALLEY CENTER VC Community Center 314 E Clay, 755-7350
Butler County Senior Centers DOUGLASS 124 W 4th, 746-3227
Harvey County Centers
BURRTON 124 N Burrton, 620-463-3225
HALSTEAD 523 Poplar, 835-2283 HESSTON Randall & Main, 620-327-5099 www.hesstonseniorcenter.com
GRAND CENTRAL 122 E 6th, Newton, 283-2222 www.newtonseniorcenter.org SEDGWICK 107 W. Fifth, 772-0393
Dances
Goldenrod Golden Age, 1340 S Pattie. Linwood Golden Age, 1901 S Kansas. Minisa Golden Age, 704 W 13th. Info 617-2560. Mulvane, 101 E. Main (Pix Community Center). Oaklawn Activity Center cafeteria, 4904 S Clifton. Info: iamgary48@yahoo.com. Orchard Park Golden Age, 4808 W 9th.
Sedgwick County
Butler County Transit
NOTE: DUE TO CONCERNS OVER CORONAVIRUS, THE SENIOR WEDNESDAY SCHEDULE FOR MAY WAS NOT AVAILABLE. PLEASE CHECK SENIOR WEDNESDAY. ORG FOR UPDATES. BELOW ARE THE USUAL TIMES AND MEETING PLACES FOR SENIOR WEDNESDAY.
El Dorado Jam & Dance, Senior Center, 210 E 2nd.
Transportation Sedgwick Co Transportation, 660-5150 or 1-800-367-7298. Information: 8 am-5 pm, Mon-Fri; closed most holidays. www. sedgwickcounty.org/aging.
www.seniorwednesday.org
Derby Sr Center, 611 Mulberry.
TOWANDA 317 Main, 776-8999 Open 10:30 am-5 pm Mon, Wed, Fri WHITEWATER Legion Hall, 108 E Topeka
Senior Wednesdays
Augusta Sr Center, 640 Osage. . Info: 755-1060
LEON 112 S Main, 745-9200 or 742-9905 ROSE HILL 207 E Silknitter, 776-0170
Weekday transportation in El Dorado, Augusta and Andover. Rides to Wichita on Wed, Thu. Information: Augusta, 775-0500; El Dorado, 322-4321; toll free, 1-800-2793655. 48-hr notice required.
Harvey County
Park City Sr Center, 6100 N Hydraulic. Info: 755-1060 Prairie Wind Dancers: Plymouth Congregational Church, 202 N Clifton. Joyce, 683-1122.
Oaklawn Activity Center, 4904 S Clifton. Info: Nick, 529-2792, or Mike, 650-2469. wichitacontra.org. Westside Steppers Square Dance, Clare Hall, 861 N Socora (one block east of Central & Tyler).. Info: David, 992-7820; email: westsidesteppers@hotmail.com Wichita Solos Square Dance, Dawson UMC, 2741 S Laura. Info: Curtis, wichitasolos@yahoo.com.
Transportation reservations or information: 316-284-6802 or 1-866-6806802. Round-trip: $8 Newton (wheelchair only), $12 Harvey County, $20 outside Harvey County. AVI to Newton: Tue, 12:304:30 pm from Burrton, Sedgwick, Halstead, Hesston, Walton.
AARP DriverSafety Classes Four hours of instruction; certificate on completion. Reservation required. $15 for AARP members; $20 others.
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NO CLASSES
NOTE: AGING PROJECTS, INC. PLANNED TO MAKE FRIENDSHIP MEALS AVAILBALE THROUGH PICK UP AND DELIVERY IF NECESSARY. FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT YOUR LOCAL MEAL SITE OR CALL 316-681-4440
Friendship Meals Aging Projects serves a hot, nutritious meal weekdays for persons 60 and older in Sedgwick, Harvey and Butler counties. Reservations are necessary. For locations and reservations, call 620-669-8201. WEEK OF JUNE 1 Mon: Meatloaf, mashed potatoes, green beans, pear, roll. Tue: Ham and beans, potato and onions, tomato slices, blueberries, cornbread. Wed: Italian baked chicken, pasta salad, lima beans, applesauce, garlic bread. Thu: Tuna salad, broccoli/cauliflower/ carrot salad, banana, brownie. Fri: Mexican lasagna, hominy, cuke and onion salad, strawberries, snickerdoodle cookie. WEEK OF JUNE 8 Mon: Creamed chicken over a biscuit, peas, beets, mandarin orange. Tue: Cranberry meatballs, baked potato, broccoli, mixed fruit. Wed: Ham salad, split pea soup, mixed green salad, glazed blueberries. Thu: Beef cutlet with Spanish sauce over rice, cauliflower bean salad, pears, cake. Fri: Pork noodle casserole, mixed vegetables, tomato slices, peaches, roll. WEEK OF JUNE 15 Mon: Tuna noodle casserole with peas, cuke and onion salad, mandarin orange, sweet muffin. Tue: Liver and onins or Salisbury steak, baked potato, three bean salad, blueberries, roll. Wed: Creamy chicken and vegetable casserole, cooked cabbage, watermelon. Thu: Taco salad, Mexican rice, strawberries, cinnamon roll. Fri: Pork roast, sweet potatoes, parslied cauliflower, applesauce, wheat roll. WEEK OF JUNE 22 Mon: Chicken salad on a bun, split pea soup, cantaloupe, molasses drop cookie. Tue: Swedish steak, California mash, green beans, mandarin orange. Wed: Oven fried chicken, potato salad, peas, blueberies. Thu: Cheesy potato and egg bake, black eye pea salad, tomato slices, applesauce, fruit swirl coffee cake. Fri: Ham and swiss broccoli pasta, cooked carrots, strawberries, roll. WEEK OF JUNE 29 Mon: Chicken fried steak, mashed potatoes with gravy, green beans, pineapple. Tue: Pulled pork on a bun, baked beans, cole slaw, peaches, gelatin. FUNDING MADE POSSIBLE THROUGH THE OLDER AMERICANS ACT, KDADS AND CENTRAL PLAINS AREA AGENCY ON AGING
Page 22
the active age
June 2020
Classified Advertising
F CEMETERY PROPERTY FOR SALE F
F ESTATE SALES F
Lakeview, Everlasting Life, double depth crypt with vaults and markers. Value $8,500, sell $4,000. Wanda, 316-619-8525.
KC ESTATE SALES Complete estate & moving sale services. We can do the sale at your residence or place your items with another sale. Expert pricing, selling & clean-up. Packing & moving services available. Excellent results. Free consultation. Call Carolyn Moshier. 316-634-0040
Garden Of The Cross, 4 Resthaven Cemetery plots together, $2,900 ea or $10,000 all, OBO. Buyer pays transfer fee. Call Brad (316)259-8948 Lakeview, Garden of the Apostols. 2 lots and 1 deluxe external rest casket $5,495 OBO. Seller pays transfer fee. Call 316-733-2323 and leave contact info at the beep. Two plots at White Chapel Memorial, Sermon on the Mount. Lot 271-A, spaces 3 & 4. Asking $2,000 which includes transfer fee of $425. Cash only transaction at the White Chapel Office. Call 316-727-1123. 1 plot Memorial Gardens in White Chapel Cemetery, Section 1, lot 137A, space 11. $1,500 includes transfer fee. If 2nd plot is needed contact White Chapel. Call Lee 620-438-2450.
CUSTOMIZED ESTATE SALES GREATER PROFITS WITH LESS STRESS Insured with 20 years experience Free Consultations 316-806-7360 Julie IPK Enterprises Estate Sales. Know your options, you have many. Please call us for a free consultation. 316-806-3435.
F FOOT CARE F Foot Care in home. Home visit $40.00 Call Francine at 316-943-4360. Leave a message.
2 plots at White Chapel, Good Shepherd, Lot 10A, Spaces 1 & 2, includes vault, opening & closing & marker. $1,600 each, Seller pays closing/transfer fees. Accepting Offers. 316-409-6563
Cheryl Rosine ~ The Foot Lady ICMT RN
2 plots at Resthaven, side by side in Garden of Freedom. Valued $8,800 selling both for $5,000. Call 316-706-5759.
$40: In-home, Sedgwick & surrounding counties Diabetic, thick toe nails, ingrown & callous care
2 side by side cemetery plots. 2300 each or discount for both. white chapel memorial gardens. Call Steve 720-448-2661.
F FOR RENT F
Grave Spaces (4) Old Mission Garden Beautiful Last Supper Section @ 21st St Easy access from road. Row E, Section B #53,54,55 & 56. $1,250 each. Buyer Pays Transfer Fee. Call 847-541-7851. 3 lots at Resthaven in garden of Christ in the children. Asking $3500 each OBO. Wanda 316-942-5147. White Chapel, 2 Adjoining lots in Christus Garden. $2,000 for both. Buyer Pays Transfer Fee. Call 316-682-1838 or email larryprather@cox.net. White Chapel Memorial Gardens Garden of Love ( Package of ) Double space, One Opening and Closing & A Companion Memorial. Total value $10,285.00 Asking for $8,785.00 OBO Call: 316-253-8283 (Please leave a message if I am on line) 2 cemetery lots, Wichita Parks Cemetery. W ½ -254 Memorial Section A, spaces 1&2. $2,500 for both. Call 719-734-5343 or 719-688-2435 or email dixchoat@centurytel.net. Lakeview Gardens-Reflection Area. Stand up stones allowed. NO transfer fee. 2 plots, regular $7,500 – Asking ½ price $3,750.Call for more details 785-8451177 or email jwdorsey4816@gmail.com
Resthaven, Garden of Freedom, Double-depth lawn crypt, with marker, space for two, Bronze Memorial, granite base. Value $8,900. Sell $6,800. Good location, Seller will pay transfer fee. 316-617-2088
Place your ad today! Call 316-942-5385
FOOT CARE IN YOUR HOME • 316-312-2025 •
Condo for Rent at The Pines in Ascension Living 1702 Georgetown Wichita, Kansas 67218
Totally remodeled just for you. Fresh Landscape. Two Car Garage, Granite counter tops throughout. 2 fireplaces, Totally redone kitchen with new Stainless Appliances. Extensive closet space with cedar linings, Large walk-in closet in Master bedroom. Two Bedroom and two baths on main floor. Nice family room with fireplace and serene private walkout deck overlooking a park. Downstairs: Beautiful family room, with fireplace, wet bar, bedroom with cedar closet, and very nice bath. Large unfinished storage area with shelving. Additional amenities available to Tenants at Ascension Living are: • Scheduled transportation for shopping, medical appointments, and Georgetown sponsored activities. These are based upon availability, and some do have a cost and the condo resident would be responsible for payment. • Reasonably priced great meals for condo residents. • Priority admission to IL. Or AL based on availability • Beauty and Barber Shop • HOA fees, trash, lawn water bills paid $1,500/month, $1,500 deposit, 1 year lease minimum. Contact Tom Ryan @ 575 318 6019 or email at grinch334@aol.com
F FOR SALE F Daybed with mattress and trundle bed. Hardly used. Asking $350. Call 316-684-8679.
F FURNITURE F Downsizing? Don't have an Auction, or Estate Sale. We Buy Entire Estates, Storage Units, Garages, Barns, Sheds. Call Kelly 316-283-8536. Furniture Warehouse 200 Main Newton, KS
Beautiful Bones Upholstery Giving Old Pieces New Life Andrea Lazcano 316-303-5451
Place an ad: 942-5385
F FURNITURE CONT F
WANTED
CAPTAINS CHAIR Leave a Messge 316-633-5579 or 316-682-6077
F HOME CARE F In-Home Services: Personal care assistance, meal preparation, housekeeping, handymen and more! Phone Chester at the Senior Employment Program, 316-267-1771 or 316-267-0302. Pre-screened, reliable help available. Private Duty Aide with light house keeping. Availability evenings and weekends. References upon request. Cynthia CNA/HHA 316-992-6711
Sisters Dependable caregiver for elderly person in their home. Alzheimer's & Dementia. Cleaning, cooking & meds. Weekends, night, days or overnight. 30 years’ experience. 316-390-9526 CNA Looking for self-direct clients. Provide personal care, meals, light housekeeping, laundry. Good References. Call Ann 316-516-0807 or 316-226-5710 LOOKING FOR LIVE-IN Will pay utilities and buy groceries. Plus Salary. Call 316-644-4887 No Place Like Home, LLC In-Home care services & more Owned/Operated by R.N. Meal prep • Transportation Housekeeping • Companionship www.noplacelikehomeassistance.com 316-882-5930
F HOME IMPROVEMENTS CONTF Free Estimates Licensed * Bonded *I nsured Beard & Son Concrete construction Drive ways, sidewalks, patio and landscaping. Dirt work and more. I bid’em to get’em. Steve 316-773-9320 cell 316-259-0629 Handyman Matters Home Repairs by People Who Care Our background checked, bonded, insured, employee Craftsmen will fix it for you. Our work is GUARANTEED. We’re looking forward to your call… 316-773-0303 SAFE BATHING CONCERNS? We Supply & Install National Brand Walk-in Showers & Walk-in Tubs @ HUGE DISCOUNTED PRICING!!!! Bathe Safe & FEEL SAFE!! "Tub to Shower Conversion Specialist" CALL 316-633-9967 - SENIOR DISCOUNTS Al's Handyman Service Yard work • Gutter Cleaning • Painting All kinds of odd jobs. Senior discounts. 316-871-9484 The Handyman Can Brock Eastman 316.765.1677
SENIOR HELPING SENIORS FORSHEE MASONRY- 50 Years Any Brick, Block, Stone Repair Senior Discount
RICK 316-945-8751
F HOME IMPROVEMENTS F Dave’s Improvements Painting—interior/exterior. Doors and windows replaced, grab bars, wheelchair ramps. All general repairs. Guaranteed lowest rates. Senior citizen discount. Lic #7904. 316-312-2177 Molina Electric - Wichita Lic #1364 Comm. or Residential wiring. Service calls. New electric service. Troubleshooting. Cell 316-461-2199. Handyman RX- We have a remedy for almost all of your “fix-it” jobs! Light carpentry including deck and fence repair, indoor misc. repairs and installations, lawn mowing “LG or SM”, Yard & Garage clean-up, mulching, hauling, ect, what you need done I can probably handle. Call for HELP! Brian 316-217-0882. Free Estimates. Cowboy Construction Remodeling, siding, decks, fences, windows, doors and more. 20 years locally owned. Free estimates. Senior discounts. Todd Wenzel 316-393-4488 MOBILE GLASS REPAIR Windows * Patio * Doors Windows won’t stay up, Crank Outs, Patio Rollers and Lock Latches, Morris Glass & Service, 316-946-0745 Derby, Haysville, Mulvane, Rose Hill, South Wichita. House painting, siding, decks, fences. Build, repair and stain. Free Estimates and references. See us on angieslist.com. Keith Kimball 316-250-2265 or 316-789-9639 Be Blessed. Thank you.
www.theactiveage.com
Heating/AC, Plumbing Light Electrical, Drywall, Painting, Tile, Basic Home Repairs Licensed & Insured 25% Senior Discount
Ballard Heating, Plumbing & Cooling • • • •
FREE estimates Senior Discounts HVAC change outs Buy an AC,get a Furnace FREE Licensed & Insured
Call Brad at 316-260-0136 www.BallardPHC.com
JS Guttering & Construction 5"-6" SEAMLESS GUTTER WHOLE HOUSE PAINTING SIDING & WINDOWS
Call Josh for an estimate
316-393-8921
June 2020
the active age
Page 23
Classified Advertising
F HOME IMPROVEMENTS CONT F
F HOME IMPROVEMENTS CONT F
LIFT-RITE GARAGE DOORS
Roofing – Windows – Siding A Reliable General Contractor Senior Discount
316-361-2787
garywilbertroofing.com garywilbertroofing@cox.net
Scheduled maintenance, repair, sales on all garage doors. *Springs-Torsion & Extension *Garage Door Openers, Doors & More Paul Williams (316) 650-8807
BRICK & STONE WORK OF ANY KIND Tuck-pointing, foundation & chimney repair. Insured. Free Estimates.
CALL DAN 316-516-3949 ALL HOMES REPAIRS
See what a difference 40 yrs experience makes!
Painting, Sheetrock & Finish Carpenter, Lite Elect, Plumbing, ECT. No Job to Small. Wayne 316-214-9668
S & V Concrete
Steps, porches, patios, sidewalks, driveways & garage floors. Also 4-inch steps with 18-inch landings for seniors. Licensed, bonded, insured. Free estimates
Steve 992-6884
Grandpa’s Plumbing Repairs, Free estimates
316.312.4391
Free Estimates
PLUMBCO
Compare Our Prices Weekly Plumbing Specials
Ins/Lic #5803
316-942-1967
F INSURANCE F
Turning 65
Or NEW to Medicare? Bruce Smith Roofing & Siding Protect your home from the elements of the weather!
35 Years Exp. Locally owned & operated
FREE ESTIMATES
All types of roofing, siding, handyman work, hauling, clean-ups & other exterior projects
316-640-3155 Licensed & Insured
AGAPE ROOFING Three Generations of Local Roofers Quality Work – Fair Prices Residential & Commercial
Siding - Guttering - Windows
316-807-8650
Call for Free Roof Inspection Locally Owned by Pastor Steven Blalock Licensed & Insured
Place your ad today! Call 316-942-5385
Meet in person or on the phone to answer questions.
Website: www.LBCcoversU.com TEL: 316-749-2067
STEVE HENRY
Liberty Benefit Consultants 101 South Webb Road Ste. 108 Wichita, KS 67207
F LAWN AND GARDEN F Jesus Landscaping Complete lawncare. Spring clean-up * Aeration * Over Seeding Gutter cleaning * Fencing * Landscape install/maintain * Shrub/tree trimming/removal Call for a free estimate! 316-737-3426 or 316-708-7236 WWW.JESUSLANDSCAPINGKS.COM Mike E. 316-708-1472 BRICK, BLOCK AND STONE repair. Garage clean out, mowing leaf and gutter cleanup, tree trimming, hauling, roto-tilling. APPLIANCE REMOVAL. Mowing, trimming, yard and leaf cleanup. If you need any of these services Call Perry, 316-619-6126 Westside Lawn Service Spring cleanup. Bush and hedge trimming, bed work,mulching, gutter cleaning, handyman , odd jobs and hauling. 26 years experience. Free estimates. Perry 316-339-4117.
Place an ad: 942-5385
F LAWN AND GARDEN CONTF All Season Clean Up Lawn Care Quality Lawn Care • Yard Clean Up Tree Trimming • Gutter Cleaning Fall through Spring raking. Free estimates, senior discounts. 316-409-8780. Total yard clean-up, flower beds and bushes, tree trimming and stump grinding. Removal & Clean-up. Firewood Available for Delivery. LEAF cleanup and HAULING. Including all yard debris. 316-516-4630
Christian Lawn Care Mowing-$20, verti-slicing, core-aerating, overseeding, new lawns, mulching flower beds, fall cleanup, leaves, shrub trimming and removal, gutter cleaning, hauling. Senior discount. Steve 316-685-2145 Brush, Limbs, Debris, Hauling and Junk Removal. Leaf removal. Free Estimates. Call David at 316-213-8880. Neighborhood lawn service •Lawn mowing •Yard cleaning Residential or Commercial 720-254-3557 HAULING HANDYMAN MISC. ODD JOBS, NO JOB TOO SMALL Yard Clean-Up *** Fence Repairs Brush, Junk /Trash Removal Honest & Reasonable. 316-807-4989.
F PAINTING F McCoy Painting 316-516-6443 Do you need any interior or exterior painting done? I’m your man. Free estimates, affordable rates. References available.
Affordable Painting Painting & Remodeling "We've Been by Covering Town For 30 Years!" HarleyThe Worthey Interior/Exterior & Odd jobs 316-945-9473 Husband & Wife Team. 316-648-4478 Senior Citizen Discounts
• Residential and Commercial • PaintingRon for Interior and Painting Goodwin’s Exterior Painting, interior/exterior. Power washing, gutter • Power Washing cleaning, roofing repairs, handyman services and • Some Home Improvements Free Estimates
odd jobs. 30 years experience. Senior discounts. 316-461-2510 Al’s Painting Interior/exterior. 30 years’ experience. Senior discounts. 316-871-9484
Affordable Painting "We've Been Covering The Town For 30 Years!"
316-945-9473
Spring Specials 10% off • Residential and Commercial • Painting for Interior and Exterior • Power Washing • Some Home Improvements
Free Estimates * Senior Citizen Discounts www.affordablepaintingwichita.com
F PERSONALS F SWF searching for a man who enjoys a life filled with variety, travel, humor, books, and good food. Talk now and when this home/secure living is over we can discover if we are a match. I am 70ish, folks think I’m funny and I enjoy everything. Maybe I am the one you have been seeking as well. Write to Box # 65 c/o active age, 125 S. West St. Ste 105 Wichita, KS 67213
Active Aging Active Aging Proof Approval High school student interested in mowing lawnsyour and other work. Proof Approval Please check ad yard carefully and Great rates and free estimates. Please check your ad carefully checkCalloff the atapplicable boxes and Thomas 316-617-8408 F PET SERVICES F initial to indicate and check off the applicable boxes Andy & Son Full Service Lawn Care Free estimates. Overacceptance 24 yrs. in business. and initial to indicate your PAWSitive Encounters 316-312-6174 or 316-390-5758. Sitting • Dog Walking • Housesitting yourPetacceptance ____ Check offer Mike Daddy’s Mowing Service Are you going out of town? Let your pet stay in the comfort & security of ____ Check ____ Check name, address, phoneyouroffer “Your Small Yard Specialist” own home instead of going to a kennel. Working long hours? Have me come & give your dog a potty break. Experience the peace of mind Mowing, Trimming, Fertilizing ____ Check datesCheck name, ____ address, that comes with professional pet care in your home. RATES expiration START AT $25 316-215-4482 Reasonable Rates • References upon request ____ Proof Satisfactory Call Mike for the yard work youphone don’t like! Mary Shaft 316-617-0271 (no changes) Check expiration dates www.pawsitiveencounters.net B & B Exteriors ____ Everything for your lawn care including but not __________ Advertiser____ initials Proof Satisfactory limited to mowing, edging, weeding, F QUILTING F bushes, trees & grass. 316-932-5458 You can fax your approval or changes) (no Longarm machine quilting and commissions. Free pick up and delivery. See my work Remodeling, Repair and Maintenance. corrections to us at 946-9180 _____________ Advertiser by searching for initials Tallgrass Quiltworks on Quality work at competative rates. Facebook. 316.641.8638. Contact Shawn at 316-209-9876 or call Becky at 942-5385 You can fax your approval or SERVICES F corrections to us atF 946-9180 MOWING Need help on your electric scooter, power or lift Residential/ Commercial or call Becky 942-5385 chair, stairat or platform lift or hand controls? Call Spring Clean-up • Verticutting/Overseeding Shrub Trimming • Gutter Cleaning & More! Family owned and operated with over 30 years experience and fully insured!
316-737-4890 or 316-737-2033
MOWING
Tree Trimming, Junk Removal, Spring & Fall Clean-Up Brock Eastman 316.765.1677
www.theactiveage.com
Howard Distribution at 316-648-1694. Howard is a certified service center and dealer for Best Bath walk-in tubs, Bruno, EMC, Golden Tech, Pace Saver, Pride and Ricon. Working for you since 1987.
F TREE SERVICE F ALL AROUND TREE SERVICE Stump GRINDING & Chip Clean-up Trimming, deadwood, tree removal. Total yard, leaf clean-up & hauling. Flower beds and bushes. Free estimates. Experienced. Good prices. Insured. Brad 316-633-0547 or Tom King 316-516-4630
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the active age
Reader 'puzzled' by virus
F TREE SERVICE CONTF Felipe Tree Service Evergreen trimming. Tree removal. Brush hauling. Splitting. Deadwooding. Free estimates. 12 years experience. 316-807-4419
Priced Right Tree & Lawn
Tree Trimming/Removal • Stump Grinding Mowing • Leaf Raking/Mulching • Brush/Yard Clean Up/Removal • Gutter Cleaning • Licensed & Insured
* We'll Beat Any Original Written Estimate
(316) 258-6954
TREE BOSS
Robert Rodriguez Owner/ Operator
• Tree Removal • Trimming • Deadwood • Stump Removal • Firewood Specials • FREE ESTIMATES
316-806-9592 Licensed & Insured
TREE & STUMP REMOVAL • Fast & Reliable • Free for Qualified Seniors
Not to make light of a situation, but Active Age reader Linda Mall loves puzzles so much she decided to “put the play in plague” by coming up with these brain ticklers related to Covid-19. She patterned them on some of her favorite puzzle types. The answers appear on page 26.
EASY AS A-B-C
Below are 25 words, phrases or names of five or more letters related to the coronavirus pandemic. Insert one letter of the alphabet on each line to complete them. Each letter of the alphabet is used only once (except for Q, which is not used). Cross off letters as you use them. ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPRSTUVWXYZ IGRADR_AUCITG
AONSTA_HOMELT
ACFMOS_TALYOU
GOUMPA_DEMICA
REAVEN_ILATOR
BELOCK_OWNTGE
SHORTV_RIEFST
ACORON_VIRUSB
BUMLCO_IDERLM COFACE_ASKEDO SANITI_ERCFPN
UWTRUM_VERSIO CHRISO_ATIONS
MIDDLE GROUND
Stan 316-518-8553 Licensed & Insured
Alfred's Superior Tree Service 316-522-9458 www.alfredstree.com
pruning - tree removal - stump grinding - debris/ brush haul off - chemical sprays - emergency services - firewood - consultations - demolitions
Professional & Insured • Certified Arborist Residential & Commercial F VEIN CAREF
Fill in the blanks of the words below to create a phrase related to the coronavirus that can be read from top to bottom. The answers appear on page 26. CA_TLE BR_AD
BLA_KER CHE_P
CHOMES_HOOLPO ASPERC_INANST
WASHIN_HANDST SBRAND_CTORSO ASHORT_AUNTST
CONSONANT CONCENTRATION
Words/phrases:
_O_IA_
_E__I_A_O_
_A_E
_E__E_A_U_E
_I_E_EE_ I_
__A_E
_E__ - _UA_A__I_E
CL_MP
S_OPE
$39.95
SWORLD_IDEALS
Below are 11 words and phrases pertaining to the coronavirus crisis. Their vowels are provided, leaving you to fill in the consonants that will complete them. Cross off each consonant as you go along and you will have none left when finished. Any numbers will be spelled out. The answers appear on page 26. Consonants: CCCCCCCC DDDD FFF GG HHHHH K LLLLLLL MMM NNNNNNNNNNNNNNN PPP Q RRRRRRRRR SSSSSSSS TTTTTTTTTTTTT VVVV Z
BAN_ER
Donate your Durable Medical Equipment. Will pick up. Tax credit. Medical Loan Closet of Wichita. 316779-8989
QUBION_RSESTI
NEWYOR_CITYOU
PAS_E
Want to Purchase mineral and other oil/gas interests. Send details to P.O Box 13557, Denver CO 80201
• Prevent dryer fires • Clothes dry faster • Save on energy
LEWALK_INPARK
__E__E_
PA_TY
F WANTED F
George’s Dryer Vent Cleaning
CFAQUA_ANTINE
_O_I_
LO_NS
www.kansassurgicalarts.com West at 3460 N Ridge Road, Suite 160
BONLIN_CHURCH
_O_O_A_I_U_
LA_EN
Do you struggle with restless legs, swelling, varicose or spider veins, leg heaviness or fatigue? We can help!
PINCSI_FEETOR
_I__
CH_PS
B_AND
Call 316-573-4850 to learn more about our FREE monthly vein screenings!
June 2020
SH_NE
LI_ER
RO_UE
Thank you for your business over the past few years!
Here is what our customers are saying: - Great job, very nice gentleman - Got our dryer cleaned out perfectly - Derserves all of the 5 star ratings - Courteous, prompt and delivered as promised
Call George 316.305.6067
www.theactiveage.com
_A__
_I__ A__I__
_A_I_I_E_ _A__
_A__ E_
_A__E_I_
__E
I_O_A_IO_
_U__E
June 2020
the active age
Page 25
Page-turner about Blitz adds to Churchill lore “The Splendid and the Vile” by Eric Larson (Crown New York, 2020, 503 pages, $32.00).
By Ted Ayres Eric Larson has long been a favorite author of mine. Three of Larson’s previously published seven books reside on my bookshelves. I thoroughly enjoyed each of them — the writing and the subject matter. When his latest book about one of my favorite historical personages came out earlier this year, how could I not add “The Splendid and the Vile” to my library? The book is subtitled “A Saga of Churchill, Family, and Defiance During the Blitz” and focuses on
Churchill's first year as the British Prime Minister, May 10, 1940, to May 10, 1941. It was during this time that Germany bombed England for 57 consecutive nights, followed by an intensifying series of nighttime raids over the next six months. Larson writes, "As buildings erupted, thunderheads of pulverized brick, stone, plaster and mortar billowed from eaves and attics, roofs and chimneys,
hearths and furnaces ... dust from the age of Cromwell, Dickens and Victoria." Larson uses many new sources — such as the diary of Churchill’s daughter, Mary — to add fresh and unique information to the Churchill mystique. This is a book of nonfiction, but it reads like a novel and is a captivating and engaging page-turner. Candice Millard (a Teddy Roosevelt scholar and another of my favorite authors) has written: “Larson’s deft portraits show the essential connection that [Churchill’s] words created between the powerful and the powerless, capturing the moments that defined life for millions struggling to survive
the decisions of a few.” We have had the pleasure of visiting Blenheim Palace where Churchill was born; Chartwell, his family home; and the Churchill War Rooms. Larson’s book added a fresh new patina to my memories of those visits. This is a book about family, courage, intrigue, sacrifice, politics, perseverance and determination during a time of considerable stress and consequence (can anyone say “pandemic”?). I loved this book and I recommend it most favorably. Ted Ayres is vice president and general counsel emeritus at Wichita State University. He can be reached at tedayres47@gmail.com.
10 years ago Mary Ann Fenske of Wichita represented Kansas in the National Spelling Bee in Cheyenne, Wyoming … “Never Take a Snake for a Ride,” a collection of Ark Valley News columns by Les Anderson, was released to raise money for a new Valley Center library … East Wichita Shepherd’s Center changed its name to LifeVentures.
Celebrations is a FREE announcement of 80years or more and anniversaies of 50 years or more. Send your Celebration information to the active age 125 S West St., Ste 105, Wichita,KS 67213 or by email to joe@theactiveage. com. Deadline is the 10th of the month prior to publication.
From our archives 40 years ago Katie Gordon, one of 13 children born to former slaves in Mississippi, celebrated her 100th birthday at Hillhaven-Wichita … Social Security recipients were told to expect a 14.3 percent boost in benefits to keep up with inflation … Harvey County residents collected signatures needed to put a property tax dedicated to aging services on the August ballot.
25 years ago Irene Hart announced she was leaving Central Plains Area Agency on Aging after 18 years as director, during which time its staff grew from four to 25 people and its budget from $400,000 to $4 million … The Wichita Metropolitan Transit Authority started a program offering seniors in the Boston Park area a door-to-door ride anywhere in the city for $1 each way.
Celebrate!
Our care sets us apart Rehabilitation is what we do. And that makes a difference. With around-the-clock specialized care and typically at least three hours of therapy a day, five days a week, we help patients return to their greatest level of independence.
8338 West 13th Street North Wichita, KS 67212 316.729.9999 wesleyrehabhospital.com
The Joint Commission DiseaseSpecific Care Certification in Amputee Rehabilitation, Hip Fracture Rehabilitation and Stroke Rehabilitation
©2020 :Encompass Health Corporation:1514451C
www.theactiveage.com
Page 26
the active age
June 2020
Answers to Easy as A-B-C: DRFAUCI, TVBRIEFS, PANDEMIC, CORONAVIRUS, COVID, FACEMASK, SANTIZIER, TRUMP, ISOLATIONS, STAHOME, SIXFEET, VENTILATOR, ONLINECURCH, WALKSINPARK, HOMESCHOOL, CHINA, NEWYORKCITY, ITALY, NURSES, LOCKDOWN, WORLDWIDE, WASHINGHANDS, DOCTORS, SHORTJAUNTS. Answers to Viral Vowels: HIGH TEMPERATURE, VENTILATOR, CORONAVIRUS, COVID NINETEEN, SHELTER IN PLACE, SELF-QUARANTINE, SOCIAL DISTANCING, HAND SANITIZER, FACE MASK, FLATTEN THE CURVE, PANDEMIC, ISOLATION. Answer to Middle Ground: SOCIAL DISTANCING.
Call for an Appointment
with Wichita’s most experienced fitter today.
We file insurance!
• Fashion & Mastectomy Bras • Breast Prosthesis • Swimwear 536 S. Bluff • Wichita (3 blocks N of Lincoln between Hillside & Oliver) Mon-Thurs 10-5, Fri 10-3, Sat by appt only • 316-260-9608
Does your Does your Does your smartphone, smartphone, smartphone, computer, printer computer, printerprinter computer, or other or tech other tech have orhave other tech have for frustrated? friendly tech help that you you frustrated? you frustrated?
WillowCreek Manor Apartments
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June 2020
the active age
Answers to ‘60s quiz on page 19: 1. UCLA Bruins, 108-89, in Portland, Ore. 2. Century II. The Forum served as the city’s main auditorium since 1912. 3. Civic Playhouse, opened as the Civic Theater at 725 W. Douglas in 1936. It was demolished in 1977. 4. Elevated walkway 5. Pedestrian scramble (also known as an X-crossing or Barnes Dance) 6.Yingling Chevrolet. Four firefighters died when the roof of the building at 310 S. Topeka collapsed. 7. Ted Weems Orchestra 8. Future congressman Jim Ryun, then a student East High, broke the high school record for the mile with a time of 3:58. 9. Wright’s widow, Olgivanna, developed the color scheme after the architect’s death in 1959. 10. A duck
Page 27
11. An Air Force fuel tanker crashed, killing seven airmen and 23 people on the ground. 12. Harry Shepler, who started Sheplers in 1949, made the remark.
We’re here for you. Through these uncertain times, your Wichita Public Library is here for you. To learn more about available resources and services, visit wichitalibrary.org or call 261-8500.
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the active age
June 2020
Now is always a good time to confront ageism By Monica Cissell Ageism reared its head during Covid-19. In early January, news articles appeared highlighting the impact that Covid-19 would have on older adults. The use of terms like “elderly” for all adults over 60 implied that all in this age group are helpless, frail and not contributing to society.
The response to Covid-19 was slowed because the virus supposedly only killed older people, prompting many under 60 to show little concern. So-called funny hashtags referring to Covid-19 as “#grandmakiller” or #boomerremover” cropped up. In some countries, triaging in medical facilities
took place based on age and even in the United States nursing facility standards were loosened and rights of residents were overlooked, effectively devaluing older adults’ lives. The concept that older adults are more expendable than their younger counterparts predates Covid-19, but that doesn’t mean this response should be tolerated. It’s time to fight ageism during and beyond this pandemic. According to Becca Levy, a professor at the Yale School of Public Health, it is important for older adults to question ageist stereotypes. “We’ve found that those who value and affirm their own meaningful contributions to society can avoid internalizing those stereotypes.” Those who do not have a positive outlook on aging may live 7½ years less than those who are positive about aging. Steps to Combat Ageism Self-Awareness: Being selfaware of behaviors, ageist language and attitudes. Avoid aloof references such as “senior moments” or ideas that perpetuate stereotypes. Remember, we are all aging, and if we are lucky enough to live into our 60’s and beyond
we should value this place in life. Advocate: Speak out against ageism. Call out ageist attitudes or remarks in your circle of friends, family, colleagues, leaders and the media. Often people do not realize what they are saying is ageist or that their words or behaviors negatively portray older adults. Remember older adults are diverse: Older adults vary widely in age, race, health status, functional status, needs, finances, education, ability to cope and social supports to name a few. Age doesn’t make us who we are. Teach others: Encourage interactions between youth and older adults, talk about ageism, teach young people that ageism should not be tolerated just as racism should not. Some would say that ageism is the last acceptable “ism.” Let’s take steps to end ageism. Monica Cissell is director of information and community outreach for Central Plains Area Agency on Aging. If you’re concerned about an older adult during this difficult time or you’re a caregiver and need support, call 1-855200-2372 or visit www.cpaaa.org.
When it comes to coronavirus, protect your health and your wallet Coronavirus scams are spreading nearly as fast as the virus itself. Right now, fraudsters are using the full suite of scam tools —phishing emails and texts, robocalls, impostor schemes and more—and closely following the headlines, adapting their messages and tactics as new medical and economic concerns arise. The AARP Fraud Watch Network’s team of fraud fighters offers real-world tips and tools to help protect you and your loved ones during this uncertain time and beyond. Visit aarp.org/FraudWatchNetwork to learn more, or call the AARP Fraud Watch Network Helpline at 1-877-908-3360 to report a scam or for help if you have fallen victim.
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