The Vegas Voice 4-20

Winner of
11 Awards!
2O20
April
For your Health, Wealth,
and Good Times!
NEVADA’S MOST POWERFUL SENIOR MEDIA RESOURCE
CORONAVIRUS
Stay Safe, Be Smart!
& Don’t be afraid to... SMILE!
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2
April 2020

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April 2020
PUBLISHER/EDITOR
PRESIDENT
VP ADVERTISING
POLITICAL EDITOR
ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR
NIGHT LIFE EDITOR
TRAVEL EDITOR
RADIO HOST
GRAPHICS EDITOR
DIGITAL MEDIA
VIDEO EDITOR
WEB DESIGN
PROJECT DIRECTOR
Pat Alexander
Adrea Barrera
John Bielun
Yvonne Cloutier
Dianne Davis
Sandi Davis
Chuck Dean
Jan Fair
Howard Galin
Susan Goldfein
Volume 17, Issue 2
OUR FANTASTIC COLUMNISTS
PROUD
MEMBERS OF:
Linda Gomez
Ali Guggenheim
Morris Heldt
Dan Hyde
Mike Landry
Heather Latimer
Joey Kantor
BJ Killeen
Kathy Manney
Kyo Mitchell
Dan Roberts
dan@thevegasvoice.net
Ray Sarbacker
ray@thevegasvoice.net
Debbie Landry
debbie@thevegasvoice.net
Rana Goodman
rana@thevegasvoice.net
Evan Davis
evan@thevegasvoice.net
Sam Wagmeister
Stu Cooper
Rich Natole / Jon Lindquist
Michael Roberts
Ross Roberts
Matthew Moore
Success City Online
Bill Caserta
bill@thevegasvoice.net
Aaron Phillips
Judy Polumbaum
Mary Richard
Renee Riendeau
Crystal Sarbacker
Jim Valkenburg
Beverly Washburn
Vicki Wentz
Kate Wind
About The Vegas Voice
In 2019, The Vegas Voice received 11 national awards from the
North American Mature Publishers Association. The awards were for our
guardianship special efforts, editorial and columns, front page graphics,
overall design and “General Excellence.”
The judges found (and we humbly
agree) that The Vegas Voice puts
a premium on well-informed
columnists who cover a lot of bases.
Serious issues are thoughtfully
discussed, but there’s enough fun
to lighten the mix.

We’re All (Not) Going to Die
By: Dan Roberts / Publisher
How do you write about the “new sudden
normal life” in a monthly publication –
especially when the facts are changing
daily if not hourly? That’s was our Vegas Voice question in
putting together this April edition.
President Ray Sarbacker wanted to include a “Do’s and Don’ts”
section but if you don’t know what to
do now in combating the coronavirus
outbreak, the odds are excellent you
never will follow the proposed guidelines
- or you already have the illness.
It didn’t make sense to ignore it
either. Like that elephant in the room,
the outbreak is sucking the air out of
everything else and to write about the
latest scam or anything else strikes us as
being clueless and irrelevant.
Compounding our dilemma, our
writers were also affected by COVID-19. A number of our columnists
requested to write about their take on this pandemic. As one example,
Our View’s Judy Polumbaum writes about (page 11) being involuntarily
separated from her family during this crisis.
Travel editor Stu Cooper does a great job in his column (page 36)
explaining that “This Too Will Pass” while our Hollywood Memories
columnist Beverly Washburn discusses (page 12) how “The Show
Vegas Voice Editorial
Mustn’t Go On” and that her eagerly anticipated one-woman show
had to been postponed.
She’s not the only performer to live with such abrupt change of
plans. The Vegas Voice had to postpone
(not cancel) our two events at Sun
City MacDonald Ranch – our Spring
Home Show (to the consternation
and incredible hard work of our
Vice-President Debbie Landry) and
entertainment editor Evan Davis
likewise had no choice but to putoff
Mark OToole’s “From Sinatra to
Manilow” fantastic performance.
Believe me, we realize these
“sacrifices” are minuscule to those directly affected by the outbreak but
it still does hurt.
So now what? Hopefully the worst will be behind us and we can soon
leave our homes, be with our friends and neighbors and once again,
resume our lives and enjoy our remaining years.
Until then, we tried our best in putting together this edition that can
hopefully provide some reading enjoyment. From all of us at The Vegas
Voice - stay safe, be smart and, don’t be afraid to smile.
And So We Begin
Temma Hammond, CEO of Golden Network TV addresses
The Vegas Voice columnists at our Anniversary Celebration last
month. She explained how you can find Golden Network TV on the
Roku platform. And the best news – The Vegas Voice placed its first two
broadcasts (Celebrity Corner hosted by entertainment editor Evan
Davis and Scams, Schemes & Senior Safety hosted by Publisher
Dan) on this new streaming service.
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6
Understanding the Threat
By: Kyo Mitchell / A Healthier You
Why is the coronavirus such a threat? To
understand this question, you need to
better understand how the body deals with foreign
pathogens such as viri (the plural of virus) or bacteria.
First we need to start with the virus itself. The coronavirus is an RNA
virus. The way it survives and prospers is that it enters your cells and
makes copies of itself. Along the way it tends to destroy the cells its
enters, hence harming you.
The body tries to defend against this invasion by means of the
immune system. Most people have heard of antibodies. The immune
system will develop antibodies and immune cells to seek out and
destroy the coronavirus.
The problem with this process is that it takes time. If the immune
system has never encountered a pathogen before like this coronavirus,
it takes at least 4-7 days to develop the necessary antibodies and
immune cells to fight off this invader.
This 4-7 day timeline is for someone young and healthy. For someone
who is older or who has health conditions, it may take a longer period
of time.
If you have been watching the news, they refer to this as a NOVEL
coronavirus. No human body has ever seen this virus before which
means EVERYONE has to go through this two week process of
developing an immune response to it.
To help you further understand, let’s use an analogy. Think of two
armies in a race to build themselves up with as many as soldiers as
possible.
If your immune system can build up “soldiers” faster than the virus
can build soldiers, you will recover. If, however, the virus can build up
its army of soldiers faster than the immune system, the prognosis may
be terminal.
What is also a threat is the body’s response. Inflammation is the
body’s natural response to a foreign invader.
When inflammation happens, extra fluid which contains immune
cells is vented into the affected tissue to fight the virus. If this happens in
the deep part of your lungs (called the alveoli) this extra fluid decreases
the ability of the body to absorb oxygen and vent carbon dioxide. This
can be life threatening and why people are put on ventilators.
Be safe. Be smart. We will get through this.
Dr. Kyo Mitchell served as faculty at Bastyr University in Seattle
and Wongu University in Las Vegas for over a decade. Dr. Mitchell
practices in Summerlin and can be reached at 702-481-6216 or
rkyomitchell@gmail.com.
April 2020
My Quarantine Diary
By: Bill Caserta / Bill’s Blurbs
Day 1: I have stocked up on enough nonperishable
food and supplies so that I can
remain in isolation for as long as it takes to ride
out this pandemic.
Day 1 + 45 minutes: I am in the supermarket
because I wanted a Twix.
Day 2 (and no sports on TV): Found a beautiful lady sitting on my
couch yesterday. Apparently she’s my wife. She seems nice.
Our Bill Blurb’s thoughts about this pandemic:
1. Not to brag, but I used hand soap before it was trending.
2. My cleaning lady just called and told me she will be now working
from home and will send me instructions on what to do.
3. Until further notice, no one can stop by my house unannounced.
I’m not sick. I just don’t trust anyone around my toilet paper.
4. Who would have believed this? Mexico is now asking President
Trump to hurry up with the wall.
5. I asked a Walmart worker where I could find the nuts. He told me
that they’re in the toilet paper aisle.
6. And how come the liquor stores don’t have empty shelves? Are
people not realizing that they are going to be quarantined with their
spouses and kids?
Bill Caserta is the Project Director for The Vegas Voice and
has a very “unique” sense of humor. He welcomes all funny
submissions at: bill@thevegasvoice.net.

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7

As we sit home and
wonder what to do in
the coming weeks, with
many shows, sports events
and parties being cancelled or put on hold,
The Vegas Voice advances into an era of
streaming.
Streaming means listening to music
or watching video in “real time”,
instead of downloading a file to
your computer and watching it
later. With internet videos and
webcasts of live events, there is
no file to download.
You will be seeing this logo more and more,
as we forge ahead with interviews from “The Vegas
Voice Celebrity Corner” hosted by yours truly. I’ll be discussing
8
The Shows Will Go On!
By: Evan Davis / Entertainment Editor
Game On
By: Sam Wagmeister / People & Places
For Mark Richards, it’s been “game on” since
1954 when, as a 12-year old, he appeared as a
contestant on the TV’s Break the Bank with
Bert Parks. That was the first of five game show
appearances.
Such appearances include To Tell the Truth with Gary Moore, Wheel of
Fortune with Chuck Woolery and the losing Bachelor #3 on The Dating
Game. It led to decades of work in the game show industry, as a radio
program director and as the DJ voice of 50s, 60s and 70s rock and roll.
Now a longtime Las Vegas wedding videographer, Richards is working
on reviving a successful casino table game that first premiered at Harrah’s.
His east-to-west coast career journey led to announcing jobs, voiceovers
and an oldies radio DJ stint in San Diego. Looking to add variety to his
broadcasts, Richards began developing radio games for his listeners.
Three years later, he began a school coaching people to become game
show contestants; his fee was 20% of their winnings. A LA Times story
featuring his unique school led to television appearances on Sally Jessy
Raphael, Phil Donahue, Oprah, Larry King and others.
With his “instant credibility”, Richards was offered the job as
Contestant Coordinator on Jeopardy. “I’d work that job during the
week and then spend my weekends in the library,” digesting TV Guide,
Seventeen Magazine, Cosmopolitan, Dear Abby, Ann Landers and other
current publications. For Richards, those library hours were research,
constructing questions for Hollywood Squares.
With the Jeopardy job, Richards conducted rehearsal games for
contestants designed to acclimate them for the broadcast. After viewing a
taping of one of those rehearsals, television pioneer Ted Turner prevailed
April 2020
the latest shows and events with local entertainers, musicians, comedians
and producers.
We will be streaming parts of our shows as well. You can view these
shows and interviews on our YouTube page, the internet and on ROKU
steaming through GoldenNetwork.TV. I’m pleased to announce that The
Vegas Voice has joined Golden Network TV (GNTV) and will provide
original programming to this new streaming service.
GNTV is backed by Vimeo, delivered
through ROKU and the Internet. It
recently launched its new subscription
streaming service dedicated to
meet the needs and interests
of seniors. And by the way, it’s
a FREE service.
As all the madness passes,
and it will, The Vegas Voice has
plans for future monthly shows and
celebrations for all the major holidays. And a huge
back to business extravaganza featuring many performers
welcoming back the shows to Vegas.
on Richards to audition for a new game show, Starcade. Richards landed
the hosting job, beating out a relative broadcast newcomer, Alex Trebeck.
After relocating to Las Vegas in 1990, Richards hosted three game
shows, the first karaoke on the Strip and The Radio Game Show on 970
AM.
In addition to his videography business, Videos by Mark and Beverly,
today Richards’ busy schedule includes developing games for cruise lines.
“I live and breathe games. There’s really no difference between TV, radio
and board games.”
Sam Wagmeister is The Vegas Voice Nightlife Editor. He loves to
hear from our readers. Please feel free to contact him via email:
LasVegasHomeTeam@Gmail.com.

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April 2020
Easter Parade
By: Yvonne Cloutier / Musical Moments
The 1948 musical, Easter Parade (its title
taken from the song) was not only the most
financially successful musical for Irving Berlin,
Judy Garland and Fred Astaire, but also one of Berlin’s most successful
songs.
Easter Parade won Best Original Music Score and Best Written
American Musical. It earned $4,144,000 in the U.S., Canada and
$1,659,000 abroad, unlikely sums for those times.
As with many
musicals, it was
a danceable,
complicated love
story that ends
happily. Berlin
originally wrote
the melody in
1917, calling it
Smile and Show
Your Dimple, a
cheer-up song for
a girl whose man
had left for World War I.
In 1918, Sam Ash, a vaudeville singer recorded it having moderate
success. In 1933, Berlin resurrected it, modifying it with new lyrics and
title for a musical revue called As Thousands Cheer.
Films such as Alexander’s Ragtime Band and Holiday Inn,
starring Bing Crosby followed. Only then was it used with Judy Garland
and Fred Astaire calling it Easter Parade.
Easter Parades are festive. On Easter Sunday, people walk in
processions in their finest, decorative finery (including creative hats)
to show their respect for their religions and for good luck.
These parades started in the Dark Ages of Eastern Europe. In the
1880s, on 5th Avenue, New Yorkers became famous for their Easter
Parades and bonnet festivals.
Participants still wear their finest clothes and decorative hats. As
Berlin’s song states, “Easter bonnets with all the frills upon them.”
Some side notes about the movie:
1. Gene Kelly, who was to play Don cancelled due to a broken leg. He
suggested Fred Astaire who then came out of retirement.
2. Cyd Charisse was to play Nadine, but her pregnancy forced her out.
She was replaced by Ann Miller, who while recovering from a broken
back danced Shakin’ the Blues Away.
3. Vincente Minnelli was scheduled to direct it, but Judy’s psychiatrist
advised against her working with Minnelli. Charles Walters did.
4. Judy had never met Astaire and was afraid to speak to him until
properly introduced.
Yvonne Cloutier, a former teacher/principal, with a music
background, specializes in ragtime piano. She researches and
reports about music on SCA-TV.com/Anthem Alive! You can
contact her at www.mytimeisragtime.com.

Meditations
By: Judy Polumbaum / Our View
In 1960, ahead of the Sun Belt shift, my
maternal grandparents moved from
Brooklyn to Tucson. My grandfather was in dry
goods; lugging heavy boxes had taken a toll on his back.
The desert heat offered relief. He switched to managing apartments.
They were immigrants (he from Rumania, she from Belarus) and
Depression people who pinched pennies. When I visited as a kid, I was
amused by the stash of toilet paper always at the ready on a high closet
shelf.
Now that we have Sam’s Club and Costco, anyone can stock up. Now
that the coronavirus has come to our shores, everyone is checking off a
list: TP, tissues, paper towels, bleach, hand sanitizer.
Pasta, rice, canned goods. Essentials for uncertain times.
Colleges switch to online teaching. Schools close. Employees who
can work from home. Meetings, conventions, and other gatherings are
cancelled. No NBA or March Madness.
State and local authorities muster resources and information as we
wait for a coordinated national response.
Things slow down, and we ask ourselves: What do we really need in
this life? Do we need to be so busy?
My husband and elder son, whose work takes them to China, have
been marooned in the Middle Kingdom for months as flights to the US
get suspended. They are far from the epicenter of the virus outbreak and
remarkably Zen about being in limbo.
My younger son, meanwhile, is helping emergency rooms gear up on
the East Coast. He’ll be on the job come what may.
Retirees have a bit of a luxury: Although many of us are insanely
busy, many also have the choice not to do things.
It’s a Friday morning in mid-March as I write this. I’ve put off a trip
to Boston for my mother’s 96 th birthday, not wanting to bring weird
airport bugs into her home. I’m listening to a George Benson CD. I will
write, read and walk the dogs.
I’m trying to convince myself that over 65 is getting up there. In my
mind, I’m still 12 years old and invincible. For everyone’s sake, we need
to pay attention: Anyone can be an inadvertent carrier.
I’m missing family. But we’re fine. We’ll get through this.
Judy is a professor emerita of journalism and a transplant to
Las Vegas from New England via China, the West Coast and the
Midwest.
11

The Show Musn’t Go On
By: Beverly Washburn / Hollywood Memories
What? Isn’t that saying supposed to be “The
Show MUST go on”?
Well, typically yes, that would be the usual
thing, however with this sad uncertainty we are facing, we must do
what’s right. We need to think not only of ourselves but of other’s safety
and well-being too.
Yes, it’s disappointing that things all around us are being cancelled,
but we must bear in mind that this is for everyone’s safety and protection.
So of course, I understand why I had to postpone my show (see below).
I also believe that this is a time for us to reach out and be kind to
others. I was not only appalled but saddened as well to hear of a fight
that actually broke out at a grocery store over water!
Although we can’t “reach out” in terms of hugging, shaking hands
or being with a lot of our friends, it is still so important to at least
“check” on each other. I had several people call me just to see if I was
OK, or if I needed anything. I can’t begin to tell you how much that
touched me.
We are all in this together, and we need to be united and at least “call”
each other. There are so many of us who live alone and a mere phone
call can mean the world and make someone’s day a little brighter, just
knowing they are cared and thought about.
Now, more than ever we must be kind to one another. Yes, we must
abide by the rules and be cautious, but it takes so little to simply check
on one another - even if it’s just a phone call, a text or an email.
Our Beverly being interviewed by entertainment editor Evan
Davis at our Vegas Voice Anniversary Celebration.
This is a time of uncertainty, of fear for some of us, sadness and
despair, but we must also concentrate on faith, hope and positivity.
We WILL get through this and one day we will also be able to hug one
another again. And what a wonderful day that will be!
Until next time, remember to try and be the rainbow in someone
else’s cloud.
Beverly Washburn graced the silver screen as a child actress and
is the author of Reel Tears. You can contact Beverly at: bjradell@
hotmail.com.
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2. Install per instructions.
3. Once Roku installed and showing on TV screen, look for
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II. Via Website - www.Goldennetwork.tv
1. Enter www.goldennetwork.tv into your browser to bring up
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1. Enter www.thevegasvoice.net into your browser to bring up
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2. Click on “Our TV” tab at top of the website.
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Still cannot get on? Call The Vegas Voice at 702/251-4441
or ask your grandchild.
12
April 2020

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13

Memorial Day Golf
Tournament
By: Carol Chapman
The Foundation Assisting Seniors is excited
to announce that their 17 th annual charity
golf tournament is taking place on Monday, May
25, at 7:30 a.m. at Revere Golf Club in Henderson.
Desert Willow Golf
By: Mike Landry / Golf Fore Ever
y wife always says: “Wouldn’t it be nice
Mif the weather was like this year round?”
I have to remind her that if it was, 12 million
folks would live in this valley and it would be
impossible to get around.
All kidding aside this time of year the golf courses in the valley are
getting into great shape. It’s fun to play in an environment where trees
are neatly trimmed and sprouting new growth.
The grass is growing all over the golf course and flowers are popping
out everywhere. What beauty! I trust that while on the course you do
take in the wonderful landscape that surround each hole.
This year’s Memorial Day event promises a day of fun for all
participants. The cost is $100 per player, and includes green fees, cart
and range balls, lunch, refreshments on the course, contests and holein-one
and raffle prizes. There are flights for men, women and couples
and play will be a scramble format.
Sponsorship packages are available. All event proceeds further the
mission of The Foundation Assisting Seniors, which is to assist seniors
in times of illness, recovery, confinement at home, coping with loss
of a loved one and other challenges. Since 2002, The Foundation’s
volunteers have responded to more than 260,000 requests for assistance
services in the Las Vegas Valley.
For more information, or to register to play, please call 725-244-4200
or visit us at www.foundationassistingseniors.org
14
April 2020
The one thing that makes golf fun for me is the challenge of the
game and the comradery of the people I’m paired with. Sometimes it’s
the foursome that I play with once a week or the group that I am paired
with at golf tournaments. And sometimes it’s the strangers that I meet
on the first tee.
If you’re a senior like me who is no longer hitting long drives, please
give the Desert Willow’s Golf Club a chance and see if this Par 60 golf
course offers everything you’d want in golf. The course is in immaculate
shape as our superintendent is doing a magnificent job with the course.
Don’t believe however that the course is easy. It’s not and you will see
what I mean when you hit the 130 yard par 4 and take a bogie because
you 3 putted. Don’t say I didn’t tell you so.
So do come out and if you see an old guy on the putting green or in
the chipping area smoking a cigar, that’s probably me, so stop by and
say hello.
Next month I will bring you my take on a great Jack Nicholas
designed golf course – Coyote Springs.
Mike Landry resides in Sun City MacDonald Ranch and is a
member of Winterwood Men’s Golf Association.. He can be reached
at: airmikel1@cox.net

Parasite
By: Renee Riendeau / Movie Revelations
Parasite. Aren’t you intrigued by that title?
It’s a 2019 foreign film from South Korea.
Parasite is brilliantly written as a comedy farce
and the cast has embodied their roles in perfecting
an elegantly plotted nightmare. Bong Joon Ho, the director did a
magnificent job in showcasing a satire of a poor family at war with a
rich family, the suppressed horror of the upper class of its underlings,
status, envy, aspiration, materialism, and the patriarchal family unit.
It’s about the class struggle between the “haves” and “have nots.”
The movie never leaves its momentum with each segment raising the
stakes.
The Parasites are an unemployed family living together in a horrible
basement flat. The father is a laid-back loafer married to a former track
star. They have a shiftless son who flunked his university exams. Their
daughter, Ki-Jung, is smart, cool, and has an artistic gift for web-based
fraud.
The son gets a chance to tutor a rich teenage girl who falls for him.
He soon discovers the girl’s “younger problem brother” who draws
incessantly but needs help since has no talent. So he passes his sister off
as an “art critic” and friend to work with this boy.
Then the brother and sister get the chauffeur replaced with their dad,
and the cook dislodged with their mum. All the while pretending they
are random people not giving the rich family a clue as to their identity.
The climatic ending of this film turns into an emergency catastrophe.
A real surprise ending!
The subtitles keep you focused, since the words were carefully chosen
allowing your imagination to fill in the details. It made the movie
engrossing.
Parasite delights in ping-ponging from one genre to another, defying
expectations along the way. The director displays an offbeat sense of
humor, and the story’s twists are unpredictable.
I was fascinated by Parasites and give it a Cinema score of A+.
Renee Riendeau is the movie critic for “Renee’s Revelations”
on Anthem Alive SCA-TV. As a dog sitter she operates “ Renee’s
Roommates” out of her home and can be reached at
rriendeau@aol.com.
15

By: Jerry Creed / Trust Jerry
Are you ready to die? More importantly, have
you planned for the challenges you will face
between now and that date? Many people think
they are ready but in truth are woefully unprepared.
Ignorance is not bliss; ignorance is expensive. Often it can cost you
your entire life savings.
When you did your estate planning, how much time did the attorney
spend helping you plan for long term care, memory care or assisted
living? Did you know the average cost of care in Nevada is $8,228 per
month? What would that monthly bill do to your finances and your life
16
Are You Prepared?
Getting to Know Jerry Creed
Elder specialist Jerry Creed was our guest on our monthly Vegas
Voice Family podcast
April 2020
savings?
Did your attorney discuss planning strategies such as Irrevocable
Trusts along with Revocable Living Trusts? If you’re married, did your
attorney spend any time talking about the government loophole for
married couples using Testamentary Instruments?
Did your attorney take the time to explain how important your Power
of Attorney for Finances is and how you need to insure you have the
ability to do advanced planning - even if your spouse losses capacity?
Or if you’re widowed or single, does your power of attorney allow your
loved ones to really care for you if you lose capacity?
Truth is most powers of attorney are inadequate or completed
incorrectly; resulting in families having to seek guardianship to care
and protect their loved one if capacity is lost.
Failing to do proper planning, is planning to fail. I often hear
people I meet at my seminar say, “I’ve never heard this …” or “I didn’t
know…” or “When did this change…?”
With proper planning you can protect yourself and loved ones from
becoming impoverished. With proper planning you keep your money,
which means you keep your options open.
Don’t like the care, or the food or the neighbor? With your nest egg,
you have options to make adjustments without your life savings. If
you’re forced to become impoverished you’ll be trapped with no way
to recover.
Don’t be an ostrich sticking your head into the ground. Get
information, get informed. Knowledge is power to make changes, to
prepare for what is ahead.
Come to a seminar. As a reward for you beating procrastination
you’ll get a 30 minutes one-on- one meeting with yours truly, an Elder
Law Attorney.
Licensed in Nevada, I am one of only seven Estate Planning Law
Specialists, certified by the State Bar of Nevada. During that meeting
you can ask your questions about your specific situation or you can
have me review your estate plan.
Remember when it comes to Elder Law and Estate Planning you can
“Trust Jerry.”

OPEN FOR BUSINESS!
Elder Law and Estate Planning Specialist
Law Office of Jerry Creed
As an essential financial and estate planning service, we will
remain open and fully operational ready to assist you with
your estate planning needs.
During this time, in accordance with the state mandate to
help combat the spread of COVID-19 , all appointments with
clients, except for signings, will be conducted via Facetime,
Skype, or telephone.
We cannot express enough how important it is to have
documents in place that protect your assets and your loved
ones. And allow your loved ones to care for you.
Our clients' health, safety, and well being is our number one
priority. The time is now! Don't wait, call us today and give
yourself peace of mind in this time of uncertainty.
Schedule an appt. today!
(702) 806-7777
Law Office of Jerry Creed
Elder Law and Estate Planning
Locations in Summerlin and Henderson
www.trustjerry.com
17

Bathroom Hazards
By: Heather Latimer / Heather’s Self-Help Tips
The bathroom is a dangerous place!
According to the Center for Disease
Control more deaths and injuries happen there
than anywhere else in the house.
A common mishap occurs because racks for holding lightweight
towels are mistaken for grab bars
designed to support your weight. Grab
bars are shaped like a tube, usually 5”
around, and 18” long.
If you do not have them already, buy
them now. And never use grab bars with suction cups.
Clutching a sliding glass door to gain support as you step in and out
of the shower is a cause of fatalities according to Safety Circus Report.
They suggest replacing with a shower curtain.
Changing position in the shower or standing up in the bathtub can
be disastrous. First check where the soap is because it often falls in the
water.
If it is difficult to obtain a firm grip on the edge of the bathtub when
trying to get out, drape a damp towel over the edge of the tub and you’ll
find it easier to hold onto.
Physical Therapist Don Howard says “Wherever water, soap and bare
skin are combined in any situation there’s risk of injury. Any floor can
become slippery when wet. A residue of soap can be present somewhere,
especially on the soles of your feet.”
Spring is in the Air
By: Aaron Phillips / Healthy Voice
Is there anything better than the smell of
freshly cut grass in the morning? How
about the aroma of some kind of meat being
barbequed?
These are the smells that remind us
that warmer weather is right around
the corner. It’s time to set aside the
long sleeve shirts and pants to make
way for t-shirts, shorts and even the elusive bathing suit.
DON’T PANIC! With the warmer weather right around the corner,
now is the time to get moving. If you have used any of the tips I
previously shared, congratulations!
If you haven’t, now is the time to start fresh. Get moving. It’s as
simple as putting on comfortable shoes and walk.
Walk to get your mail. Park your car a little further from the entrance
to your favorite store.
Better yet: simply walk around your community. Benefits of walking
have long been shared in articles, by doctors and even friends.
So, don’t miss out on the very easy way to get ready for the warmer
weather coming our way.
Aaron Phillips is a member of The LV Entertainers Hall of Fame,
podcaster, producer, author, emcee, broadcaster, and talk show host
on Vegas The Network. Feel free to contact him Aaronphillipslv2018@
gmail.com
ADA Compatibility
Grab Bars + Ramps
Curbless Showers + More
18
April 2020

Purpose = Longevity
By: Samantha Noelle Rivero / New Heights
Perhaps the ticket to longevity steams from
a lifestyle check. Just as your doctor lets
you know about how your body is functioning,
taking the time to review your own lifestyle history may shed some
clues you’ve been searching for to find your potential.
Coronado Heights lifestyle pyramid focuses on the key components
to senior health, including physical, social, mental, emotional and
spiritual. Practicing these five can enhance function and cognitive
longevity when you’re actively participating in life, rather than
becoming a recluse.
Our human need to manifest our desires, achievement and be
remembered changes with each decade and can decline as we age,
feeling like we’ve somehow been misplaced in the monopoly of life.
Still no matter your age, you have purpose and it’s never too late to start
finding your influential rhythm.
You may have setbacks and challenges along the way, but no matter
your journey, living under the umbrella of Senior Care can provide
limitless amounts of options, services and access to things you otherwise
might not have had the chance to experience.
With many years working in this industry, I’ve recognized that
although healthcare helps stabilize or increase one’s functions, what
would be a great additional component of care would be for continued
lifestyle services to keep people motivated.
I once knew a lady who resisted moving from her bed. She was
basically bed ridden and could barely move any part of her body.
Tirelessly the caregiver tried to assist her onto a Hoyer lift so she
could attend activities. To no surprise, she wouldn’t budge.
It wasn’t until I played some lively music and increased the tone
in my voice, encouraging her to come dance along, that we finally
saw her maneuver into an upright position. That impact of sound and
music motivated her deep desire - not just the act of maneuvering her
position.
I’ve seen this scenario prove time and time again, that when
assisting the elderly, we need to heal while fueling purpose. And maybe,
just maybe, that human life will live years longer with more energy and
joy in their heart.
Samantha Rivero is the Community Lifestyle Director at Coronado
Heights Senior Living. You can contact Samantha at 725/200-3300
19

It’s Sunblock Time
By: Linda Bateman-Gomez / Timeless Beauty
Being fortunate to live in a state with almost
endless sunshine, we should have some
type of sunblock on year-round. We tend to not
stress about this as much in the winter, but with warmer days right
around the corner and more outdoor activities ahead of us, it’s time!
I’m always looking for the next best foundation or cream, especially
with one containing a sunblock. When I see women with beautifully
finished faces, I ask what they are wearing.
What’s Your Fashion
Focal Point
By: Sandi Davis / Fashion “Cents”
In my previous article, I recommended
having a basic black tee and camisole.
Expanding on that, with a black tee and a pair of jeans you’re ready to
go casual comfortable. A bit longer black tunic and leggings may even
be your go-to uniform.
Take that tee, top it with a colorful jacket and pants or a skirt. Add
a necklace or two, pearls or even a scarf, and the tee shirt became a
canvas for your additions. It disappears as “just a tee” and you have a
comfortable top that doesn’t clash or interfere with necklines.
You’ve heard the phrase “Fashion makes the man”, and it may be
true. But I believe women make the fashion for themselves.
The definition of fashion is “a popular trend, especially in styles of
dress and a manner of doing something.” Your manner of dressing is
your fashion style.
The fashion “focal point” for me is starting with a great jacket (of
which I must admit I have many) and making that the focal point for
my outfit. Everything else is the canvas.
Now I do love the runway shows, and Project Runway is my favorite.
I look there for inspiration. Recently, there was a dress by a designer
with wonderful buttons scattered over the front.
During a recent girls night out in Vegas, a friend of mine had a
fantastic, flawless finish and she shared that she was using her favorite
called Cle De Peau: The Foundation. She purchased it at Nordstrom
for $240. Yikes! She said she loves it though because it has both a
serum and a sunblock.
I love that it was full coverage, but still had a light touch. It didn’t
look thick like a mask as some do, which can also leave a cake-like
appearance. It also didn’t look dry but had a moist finish.
When I expressed the price seemed high, she shared that for her
normal daily routine she uses their tinted sunblock which has an SPF
50 and loves it just as much. It does not have the serum, so the price is
much less at $85.
I have yet to purchase this but did try a sample in the light ivory
color and liked it very much.
If you are curious about it, I suggest going in person to color test it
and get a sample. And while it’s certainly not a drugstore price, I do
find that sometimes you get what you pay for.
In addition, there are some sites selling it online for much less, but
again buyer beware. When the price is too good to be true, even sites
that seem reputable may be selling counterfeit products. Retail stores
and the company’s main website are always the safest when buying
cosmetics, especially high-end ones!
Linda Bateman-Gomez has an international beauty company
based in Las Vegas that specializes in cosmetics and other beauty
products. Contact Linda at TimelessBeauty2020@gmail.com or
through her website www.fullips.com.
20
April 2020
I realized I should do the same thing on one of my solid color
jackets. Buying and applying some different colored and sized buttons
completely changed the look of the jacket. And made it a new fashion
for not too many cents.
What’s your fashion focal point? Your favorite type or piece of
clothing may be dresses or skirts and that can be used to build upon.
Look in your closet and choose what draws your eye, and what you
tend to wear when going out. Now, what can we add to create your
fashion, and even more importantly what can we add to make it an
entirely different outfit?
Everything you have may already be there without spending money,
or maybe spending a little on a new flair. Have fun and let me know
what you’ve discovered about your fashion focal point.
Sandi Davis is the Fashion Style columnist and Behind-the-Scenes
Research Analyst for The Vegas Voice. She welcomes all questions
and opinions. You can contact her at Sandidavis@cox.net

21

22
Bathing Suit Blues
By: Susan Goldfein / Susan’s Unfiltered Wit
Now that I live in Florida, I face April
with both anticipation and dread. The
anticipation - the visit from my grandkids during
spring break. The dread - the visit from my
grandkids during spring break.
They love to swim, and spending quality time with them requires I
wear a bathing suit.
I own one suit which I find tolerable. Purchased years ago, it’s a
black, one-piece “miracle suit,” designed to create the illusion of a
Weight Watchers success story. It embraces my boobs so I don’t look
like I require milking and covers enough pelvis to avoid a Brazilian
waxing.
While not particularly sexy, neither is it dowdy. Somewhere between
Victoria’s Secret and Talbot’s, leaning heavily towards Talbot’s.
Unburying the garment from the bottom-most drawer, I note with
alarm that it has developed a noticeable hole. The meaning of this
does not escape me. I need a new bathing suit. One has to be female
of at least middle age to fully comprehend the trauma inherent in this
situation.
To successfully obtain a flattering garment, I must patronize a shop
that employs a good “fitter.” In swimwear-speak, she’s a woman who’s
experienced in minimizing muffin tops, and other indignities.
Navigating past the bikinis, she halts at the garments with
When Saturn and Aquarius Meet
By: Kate Wind / Kate’s Insight
On March 21st Saturn moved into the sign
of Aquarius! It will only be making a small
debut at first, as it will retrograde back into the
sign of Capricorn from July 1- December 16, 2020.
Pay close attention to significant events between March-June 2020,
because first impressions matter! When Saturn makes its appearance in
Aquarius, we will get a preview of what is to come later in the year! On
December 17, 2020, Saturn will re-enter the sign of Aquarius where it
will spend the next 2.5 years.
For reference, review 1991-1994; as this was the last time Saturn and
Aquarius met. What happened during this time? As an Aquarius myself,
I can recount these years being hard work but it provided an amazing
foundation to my education.
Saturn rules structure, limits and boundaries. It creates action and
change.
Saturn feels quite at home in Aquarius, as Saturn was the original
ruler before Uranus. Aquarians are humanitarians, ruled by air and are
out of the box thinkers, while Saturn shifts the rules and puts things
into action.
When the two meet up, it will create change! To speculate, Saturn in
Aquarius may bring the below changes.
1. Real estate in the air may become more valuable. The idea of
April 2020
magical concealing properties. She
understands you’re done with sassy
and sexy. You just need one that fits!
Facing racks where no teenager
would be caught dead, I heed her
suggestions about necklines, pleats,
solids, and prints. I reject the flowery
pattern reminiscent of a tablecloth
I once purchased at Bed, Bath &
Beyond. I also decide to forgo the
animal print, which I fear would
make me look like a pregnant
cheetah.
Armed only with suits in basic black, I begin the rejection process.
Finally, I try one that passes the boobs and pelvis test. Takes me a
second to realize it’s my old suit, adorned with new flourishes and a
serious new price tag. No matter. I’ll take it.
At the beach with my darlings, I shed my robe, as confident as Bo
Derek, until I notice my daughter staring at me. “Mom,” she says
“you’ve had that suit for years. Isn’t it time for a new one?”
Susan Goldfein’s newest book, How to Complain When There’s
Nothing to Complain About, is available at Amazon.com, BN.com,
Read her blog at: www.SusansUnfilteredWit.com. Email Susan:
SusanGoldfein@aol.com.
drones making deliveries, maybe Uber for the air, or high rises rising
higher.
We have seen some of these trends start but Saturn could amplify this
energy. Also, with coastal living prices rising, it may force cities to start
building up, instead of out.
2. The discovery or confirmation of aliens or other life. Many people
associate Aquarians with aliens so this doesn’t seem too far off for me!
3. Since Aquarians are humanitarians, this shift may produce a
partnership with an unsuspecting country or enemy.
It’s always fun to speculate but we will shortly know how this energy
will play out between December 2020-March 2023.
Kate Wind is second-generation Astrologer and Feng Shui
Consultant. She speaks on an array of topics, from astrological
influences, Chinese New Year, Feng Shui and Tarot. You can contact
her at: the katewind@gmail.com

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2/14/2020 9:43:30 AM

Points to Ponder
By: Rana Goodman / On My Soapbox
As the months tick by, I become more and
more astonished that Maryanne Chiang
(Blaha) still has no resolution in the fight against
her son’s guardianship of her.
In early January, Maryanne’s
attorney filed a motion to dissolve
that guardianship and make
Maryann a free person. In response,
her son requested the court to
relocate her to an assisted living
facility in California.
I believe moving someone to a
different state, when she has a very
active life of social events, charity
work and dates with her many
friends in Sun City Anthem would be
nothing short of a death sentence. It
has been almost three long months
and Judge Linda Marquis has yet to render a decision on dissolving
the guardianship or anything else.
The legal fees from the son’s attorney are now up to $250,000 - with
no end in sight. And now the trustee of Maryanne’s trust, (who was
appointed by her son and his attorney) are claiming they must sell
off Maryanne’s rental properties in order to care for her… WHAT
BALONEY!
Does anybody believe this is “justice”?
Moving on to an interesting HOA issue: Located in a Sun City
community, one of the residents became frustrated with a notice he
received regarding a violation of the HOA rules and requirements. In
response, he expressed his frustration to the front of his home.
They say a picture is worth a 1,000 words. What do you think?
I’m sure he didn’t think or care about the consequences to his
neighbors. Unfortunately a widow living on the same street had placed
her home for sale. In anticipation in selling her home, she reserved a
spot in an assisted living facility to spend her final days.
As the closing of the sale approached, the potential new buyers drove
by to look again at their new “forever home.” When they drove past the
man’s home, stopping to stare in amazement, they realized that was
not the street for them.
They apologized to the widow telling her that they could not
complete the sale with “that other house” as a neighbor. Sadly, in a
domino effect, not only did the sale fall though, she also lost her spot in
the assisted living facility.
You might be thinking that the HOA could fix this issue but think
about this. Would they be trespassing if they attempted to clean up the
mess? Would the man just create his masterpiece over again?
It is a “sticky wicket” at best.
You can contact Rana by email: Rana@thevegasvoice.net. Also
check out her blog about life in Sun City Anthem at:
Anthemtoday.com
Scary Scam of the Month
Here’s a more clever email scam received
last month. It sure looks good at first glance.
It even has the correct Chase Bank
logo to give it some legitimacy. But here’s
where it fails. Notice exactly “who” sent
it. Definitely not from Chase Bank. Another
giveaway – the recipient does not have a
Chase bank account.
As always, think before you click on those
attachments. If in doubt, don’t!
What Do You Think?
Do you agree with our columnists?
Did anyone get you angry, make you
think or simply put a smile on your
face? Please tell us by forwarding
your comments, thoughts or
suggestions to Publisher Dan at:
dan@thevegasvoice.net.
24
April 2020

25

What is a Reverse Mortgage?
By: Nick Flores / Loan Educator
reverse mortgage is a mortgage loan for
A homeowners 62 or older that enables them
to access their home equity. This type of loan does
not require a monthly mortgage payment.
This benefits the borrower to continue to live in their home without
this cost. The loan is repaid when either of the following occurs:
borrower sells a home, finds another primary residence to live in, or
passes away.
The legal term for a reverse mortgage is Home Equity Conversion
Mortgage (HECM). Could you benefit from a reverse mortgage?
A reverse mortgage lets you:
1. Access to your property equity to do home improvements, take an
extended vacation, reinvest or save for the future.
2. Gain access to non-taxable cash without affecting your Social
Security or Medicare eligibility.
3. Live in your property without monthly payments and without
losing the title to your home.
4. Finance your loan with minimum out-of-pocket expenses.
5. Choose your loan proceeds in the form of a lump sum, monthly
installments, a line of credit, or opt to combine these forms.
6. Reverse as a purchase loan:
Buy a new primary property
without a mortgage payment.
Are You Qualified? The
requirements are:
1. The borrower needs to be 62
or older (spouses could be younger
than 62) and must be the titleholder of the equity.
2. The borrower must be able to repay their current obligations,
such as homeowners’ insurance and property taxes with no serious late
payments within the past 24 months.
3. All existing loans/liens must be paid off with reverse mortgage
proceeds, or with some other funds during closing.
4. Your home must be a single-family home, 1-4-unit home, a
condominium, a planned unit development, or modular home. A
manufactured home is in some cases eligible.
5. The Federal Housing Administration wants you to understand
the process and receive a certificate upon counseling completion with
third-party counseling; then you can bring the certificate to the lender
and start the process.
Find out if a reverse mortgage is right for you by attending our free
educational seminar. Details below.
26
April 2020

Insurance Commercials
Part I
By: Jim Valkenburg / Insurance Insight
don’t know about you, but commercials,
I tend to tick me off. But then, that is the
nature of marketing.
The ideal marketing tactic is to get the consumer to buy something
he/she doesn’t need or even knew existed. Another tactic is to deceive by
inuendo or omission or some other gimmick.
And they aren’t limited to insurance. But let’s discuss insurance
marketing.
Here’s something I encountered on the internet:
BRAND NEW RULE IN NEVADA MAKES AUTO INSURANCE
SO CHEAP, IT’S ALMOST CRIMINAL.
Notice that
the headline
includes the
state I’m located
in… it would
read Oregon or
Kentucky or any
state because the
website “knows”
the zip code my
computer is in.
But that’s beside the point.
Here is the point - There is no “new rule” in Nevada or anywhere
else! It is just a “play on words” to get you to read and start clicking on
other interesting looking buttons or phrases.
The only thing this article wants is to get some personal information
from you so you fall prey to insurance companies that will try and sell
you their policy. Not a “new rule” but rather just an old gimmick that
is constantly used.
Want proof it’s a gimmick? Just scroll to the very bottom of the page
(a very long way) and you get to read this:
Clarification of the advertising headline “New Rule in.” -
Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary defines the word “rule” as “a piece
of advice about the best way to do something.” This article aims to
advise the public that comparing rates is one of the best ways that
you can save money on car insurance. No matter what city, state
or zip code you live in you can compare rates and get free quotes.
They even admit that there is no “new rule” but use that phraseology
to entice the reader to start clicking on ads. The whole purpose of
the gimmick is to get you to compare insurance rates with THEIR
companies.
I have been telling you to compare insurance premiums in this
column for years. Here’s the bottom line - Find an insurance agent
you can trust and then trust him or her.
Jim Valkenburg is a retired military officer and insurance executive.
He and his wife owned and operated their own insurance agency for
over 16 years. His primary purpose is to give out real information
that can be used to make intelligent insurance decisions.
27

I’m Sucking Out Your Brains!
By: Vicki Wentz / Vicki’s Voice
We have all heard sentences that have
words that just shouldn’t be within a
hundred yards of each other in normal life. Like,
“Harry, use the meatloaf to move that elephant
away from my underwear.”
Or, “Norma, hurl the cat into the refrigerator until the fire is out.”
There may be a perfectly logical reason for this combination of words,
but at some point I don’t even want to know what that is.
Being a mother, however, I myself have uttered sentences no one
could possibly imagine. For example, let me share with you something
insane that I said on one of those busy, stressed-out, motherhood days
years ago.
I was doing errands not only with my own children in the car, but a
couple of nephews as well.
Eventually, 10-year-old nephew Will began harassing his little
brother, Luke, by placing the palm of one hand against Luke’s head,
and telling him he was sucking out his brains, making disgusting,
slurping sounds for added effect.
My children thought this was hilarious, but 3-year-old Luke would
repeatedly hit his brother and scream, “Aunt Vicki, Will is sucking my
brains out AGAIN! Make him stooooop!”
And I would reply, “Will, stop sucking Luke’s brains out right now!”
Well, this happened once or twice (or eight thousand times) until
Will saw the vein bulging above my left eye and got the message. But,
errands being what they are, he soon became bored again, and began
telling Luke he would take off his arm and keep it, and Luke would
scream accordingly.
When I told Will to reattach Luke’s arm, he did, but then whispered
to Luke that he had reattached a fake arm, and he still had the real
one. More screaming, more hitting, until we stopped at a light, and I,
with all the windows down on a sweet Spring day, turned around and
bellowed: “Will, stop sucking out Luke’s brains, and put his arm
back on this minute, and I don’t mean the fake one!”
Settling back down in my seat, I looked out the window: people in
cars all around us, staring at me, wide-eyed and open-mouthed. I was
the center of attention, and not in a good way, but I did notice a couple
of faces - all mothers filled with recognition… and sympathy.
Vicki Wentz is a writer, teacher and speaker living in North
Carolina. Readers may contact her - and order her new children’s
book! - by visiting her website at www.vickiwentz.com.
Congratulations
Ray
Ray Sarbacker, President of The Vegas
Voice, receiving congratulations for his
service in the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
as Flotilla Publications Staff Officer. The
award was presented by Flotilla Commander
Andrew Nelson, (at left, and followed by) Vice
Commanders Dixon Keller and Joe Fisher.
28
April 2020

Meet The Authors Day
By: Morris Heldt / A Senior’s P.O.V.
Once upon a time, in 1969, a young man
stepped off the Greyhound bus on Vine
Street in Hollywood, California. This young man
had visions of becoming a star, like his screen idol, Steve McQueen.
However, through a series of events he found he had more of a talent
for writing and producing than acting.
With a lot of luck (and many years later) he and his wife ended up
with a nice beach house. They had befriended many working actors
and writers and after having a couple of novels published they thought
it would be a good idea to have a Meet `N Greet the Authors Afternoon
at their house.
They invited several local published authors and asked them to bring
copies of their book to sign and sell. In addition, they also invited some
working actor friends.
He and his wife purchased plenty of beverages and appetizers
and set the scene to act out between 1-5pm. They even arranged for
announcements to appear in the local beach newspapers.
As the day progressed many guests stood on the deck, with cocktail
in hand, and watched the beautiful Pacific Ocean occasionally splash
up some stunning rocks. This accompanied by background music of
Sinatra, Dino and Barbara created an environment for conversation.
What it did not create however was an atmosphere for selling
books. Very few books were sold, but a good time was had by all, with
Hollywood stories flowing (along with the drinks) into the wee hours
of the morning.
As the host of that party I learned a valuable lesson. Like the ocean
washing ashore beautiful rocks after a storm, sometimes a failed event
(in regard to books sales) might create some wonderful memories that
will be cherished for a lifetime. Especially after some of those people
have passed away.
I have a vivid memory of that occasion and shall always remember it
with a smile. And, like the adage we seem to appreciate as we get older,
lemons do make lemonade.
Morris Heldt is a retired award winning film and television
producer and published author. He and his wife moved to the Las
Vegas valley from the beach in 2004.
29

Would You Buy a Car
From Amazon?
By: BJ Killeen / Down the Road
Amazon is nothing short of a phenomenon.
Some love it because of the convenience,
while others hate it because it’s taking over the world and putting
small stores out of business.
Love it or hate it, Amazon is successful because it’s giving the people
what they want, when they want it and does it in the easiest way possible.
So what does this have to do with buying a car? For many, buying a
car ranks right up there with root canal and tax preparation.
People hate negotiating because they don’t understand a lot of the
legalese and the financing double talk. Buying a car has become such
an ordeal that many dealerships have restaurants as part of the store
because they know car buying can be an all-day event, and hungry
people make terrible buyers.
Right now, it’s against automotive franchise laws to purchase a new
vehicle directly from the manufacturer. A site like Carvana works
because it deals in used cars, and not new ones, so it gets around
franchise laws.
There is a bill being sent to a vote in Colorado brought on by a
new EV truck startup company call Rivian. They wants to sell its
vehicles directly to the customer, bypassing the dealership altogether.
Part of this bill also includes allowing any manufacturer with existing
franchises to sell its own EVs directly to customers.
What does this mean for you?
As a senior, we always have to watch out for someone taking
advantage of us. It’s exhausting to be on guard all the time, and car
dealerships are famous for talking elderly customers into spending
more on features and services they don’t need.
If you could buy any car directly from a dealer or even from a third
party like Amazon, would you do it? Think of the time and money you
might save, not to mention the hassle.
Someday soon, buying a car might be as easy as clicking the “buy
it now” button on a website. The Colorado battle is just the beginning.
BJ Killeen has been an automotive journalist for over 30 years.
She welcomes all questions and inquiries, and can be reached at
bjkdtr@gmail.com
30
April 2020
Don’t Let Smoke Get in
Your Eyes
By: Chuck Dean / Vet 2 Vet
Since cannabis is forbidden by the VA Medical
system, it’s time for a conversation about it.
Every day cannabis is proving to be a great remedy for many ailments,
including PTSD in veterans, and is rapidly gaining much credibility.
Even AARP is getting on the band wagon with excerpts like this: “An
enthusiastic thank you for your article on the medicinal benefits of
CBD and cannabis. Statistics show that states with access to cannabis
continue to have substantially lower rates of opioid addiction and
related deaths compared to those that do not. Putting AARP’s weight
and credibility behind destigmatizing its use is not only timely, it
may also be lifesaving.”
So, with such positive input, maybe things will change, and the Feds
(VA) will get a life. Perhaps cannabis will become a sane alternative to
the destructive drug therapy the VA has used for decades.
Sadly, as of now, a veteran cannot even have a significant conversation
with their primary care provider concerning the usage of cannabis. It’s
a big no-no.
Since this is not a federally regulated column, I’m free to say whatever
I want to about it, so here goes: Veterans - the first thing to remember
if you use cannabis to ease your day, is that smoking or vaping can be
injurious. Choose some other way to enjoy or medicate yourself.
Try some stand-in methods of consumption so as not to risk your
health. Edibles are good, but from what I hear, gummy bears or hard
candy infused with THC can blast you out of this universe and be pretty
unpredictable in dosage.
What do I recommend? Kin Slips. If you have seen, or used those
little breath slips that dissolve on your tongue…this is the same thing,
except when you put it there its infused with THC or CBD. You have
absolute control over the dosage. Pretty cool, eh?
Now, the only catch. As legal as Nevada is, we do not have Kin Slips
available in local cannabis stores. Hopefully they’ll get here in short
order.
Kin Slips are manufactured and sold only in California and I’m glad
California is such a close neighbor.
Chuck Dean served as an Army paratrooper in Vietnam and
through that experience was led to address the many transitional
issues veterans struggle with. He is the author of several important
books for veterans. All can be found on Amazon at: http://www.
amazon.com/author/chuckdeanbooks

We’re now handling
MEDICARE!
31

Do You Feel Off-Balance Sometimes?
By: Mary Richard / Health Fitness
Balance - and I don’t mean it the way you
think! Yes, we need balance in our lives and
we start losing our sense of balance beginning in
our middle ages. If we don’t do any balance exercises, we can lose our
balance and take falls.
Have you ever taken a fall? Older adults 60 or older who have not
done any balance exercises have a greater risk of falling. Make it a
habit to do some balance exercises at least 3-4 times a week.
Some easy exercises is to stand at a counter or a steady chair. With
both feet about shoulder width, lift one foot forward at least one inch
and hold as long as you can - 10 seconds or more. Bring that foot down
and then shift to the other foot.
You can also try this by bending the knee and bringing the foot
backward (similar to a flamingo stance). Try holding this for as long
as you can - 10 seconds or more. Repeat for the other foot. Eventually
you should be able to do it without any added object.
Another is to stand behind a chair and start by holding the chair with
both hands for support. To challenge yourself further, try holding onto
the chair with one hand only.
As you feel steady, try using one finger to balance you. Then try
balancing without holding on. When you are steady on your feet, try
doing the exercises with your eyes closed.
With a little more balance exercises each day, you can help
strengthening your core to help prevent falls. The more you do balance
exercises, the less chance of injuring yourself.
I’m in my 72nd year and believe me - I want to prevent falling and
injuring myself as much as I can.
POSITIVE ATTITUDE AND HAPPY HEALTH TO ALL!
Mary Richard is a long term supporter of senior fitness. She
teaches Zumba, toning and dance classes throughout the Las Vegas
Valley. She can be reached at zumbaqueen@cox.net.
32
The Bible Code
By: Ali Guggenheim / Psychic Phenomenon
Isaac Newton, who likened the Bible to a
“cryptogram set by the Almighty” died while
still searching for the hidden code that he believed
was encrypted in the Bible. Unfortunately, Newton
had no inkling that it would take
more than a human lifetime to
process all the numbers just to read
the code.
Professors Rips and Witztum
began exploring the Torah (Bible)
in the 1980’s. Their studies were
published in Statistical Science,
1994, summarizing that, “the Torah
Code Phenomenon was unlikely to
have occurred by chance.”
Eventually, Dr. Rips utilized the
computer in a way that allowed
him to develop a sophisticated
mathematical model. It’s called “Equidistant Letter Sequences in the
Book of Genesis” which proved Newton’s theory to be 100% correct.
Ultimately, thanks goes to Dr. Eliyahu Rips, a Hebrew University
quantum physics mathematician and his computer. The Bible Code
has been verified by Yale, Harvard, Hebrew University and replicated by
a senior code-breaker at the U.S. Department of Defense.
April 2020
Since its unlocking by the computer, the proven Bible code accurately
described certain major world events that would and did occur -
including some predictions that were thousands of years before their
happening, such as man’s landing on the moon, the rise of Hitler, the
Kennedy assassinations, the Gulf War, etc.
For example: For the Gulf
War, the computer was asked to
search for Saddam Hussein. The
mathematically significant related
words that appeared were scuds with
Russian missiles, the date the war
would begin, and it was encoded
with the name Hussein.
“Although it is true that the Bible
has predicted various historical
events that have come to pass,” Rips
still disagrees with Drosnin, (author
Bible Code book) about predicting
future events.
Drosnin, on the other hand, goes further and suggests that “perhaps
it was deliberately coded in such a way that it wouldn’t be possible to
crack until the dawn of the computer age. Almost like a coded time lock
that couldn’t be opened until modern technology and the advent of the
computer provided the key.”
To contact Ali or for spiritual consultations, coaching, workshops
and readings, email: alivegasvoice@yahoo.com.

33

Water-wise for a Beautiful Garden
By: Howard Galin / Happy Gardening
The most important factor affecting your
garden is the manner in which you provide
water to your landscape. Improper irrigation can
lead to water waste, higher water costs and even the loss of plants.
In order to have a beautiful garden, it is important to be water-wise.
When adding, updating or modifying your irrigation system, you
should create “hydro zones” based upon the water needs of your
plants, rather than grouping by plant names. Group all plants needing
the same type of irrigation together.
They can be categorized as “moderate water need” like roses or
lavender and be placed on one set of irrigation valves and scheduling,
while desert plants such as cactus, yucca and agave can be grouped
together on a different set of valves and timing. If you are growing
fruits and vegetables, they too should have their own setups.
You should adhere to the Water Authority schedule for watering (1
day a week in winter, 3 days in fall and spring, and 6 days in summer).
This schedule reflects irrigation for moderate water needs plants.
Succulents and native plants should follow a more limited watering
schedule of one day a week in fall and spring; summer should be twice
a week and no irrigation at all during the winter. Keep in mind that it
is not how long you irrigate; it is how often that affects your
plants’ well-being.
Throughout all four seasons the amount of time that you water
should not vary. In my garden I water for 30 minutes each time that I
irrigate regardless of the frequency of days.
Use drip rather than spray irrigation. This prevents run-offs and
waste. Water deep rather than watering frequently is a good rule of
“green” thumb to follow.
As your landscaping matures, it is important to expand the drip areas
because the root systems have spread further away from the plants as
well. You will also need to add additional drips to your system.
Remember that the best time to water is just before dawn so that
there will be minimal evaporation. During the summer months you
may need to water twice a day. This should be done right after sunset.
Have a question? Contact me: Theplantwhisperer28@gmail.com.
Howard Galin, a/k/a: “The Plant Whisperer” is a retired NYC
school administrator, transplanted in Las Vegas who devotes his
time to communicating with and lecturing about our native
plants.
34
April 2020

Coronavirus, The Pope &
The Hokey Pokey
By: Crystal Merryman-Sarbacker /
Out & About
You may not be old enough to recall this little ditty, but the Hokey
Pokey was a popular song and dance way back in the Fifties. Now
that the age of Aquarius is just a distant memory, and the year of the
Coronavirus has captured everyone’s attention, this old song should
find a new niche.
After all, there is no need for touching anyone or requiring a partner
and it even has the dance steps in the lyrics. “You put your right foot
in, you put your right foot out…and you shake it all about.”
This admittedly is not very clever wording. But in a world that is
currently focused on intimidating facts and figures, and a disease
which is especially dangerous to seniors, the Hokey Pokey offers some
welcome relief. So “do the Hokey Pokey and turn yourself around.”
In the meantime, as if things weren’t bad enough, many businesses
and industries that deal directly with the public are having to reduce
their activities or temporarily shut down. The travel industry, for
example, has been thunderstruck.
Giant cruise ships, initially intended to be seagoing amusement
parks are having to deal with countless ill and disgruntled passengers
who may have been confined to their staterooms during a recent
cruise, or perhaps forced to abandon future reservations. Much like the
biblical, overly ambitious builders of the Tower of Babel, ship owners
and engineers are wondering if their goals to launch the biggest ships
on the seas was a good idea.
While on land, Italy, consistently everyone’s number one travel
destination, is shuttered, silent, and devoid of tourists. Even the eightythree
year old Pope, who recently confessed to be suffering from a bad
“cold” has abandoned his regular schedule of personal appearances
and asked for privacy and understanding as he takes to his bed.
But, remember this too, will pass. So, take good care of yourself
and your loved ones. Listen to the TV, radio, or internet for helpful
information.
And when you feel you need a break, just “do the Hokey Pokey, and
turn yourself around. That’s what it’s all about!”
Travel professional, Crystal Merryman-Sarbacker, has visited all
50 U.S. states and over 40 countries. She was awarded 1st Place for
her 2019 Travel Writing by the North American Mature Publishers
Association. She can be reached at Merryman2@aol.com
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35

By: Stu Cooper / Happy Adventures
As I write these words our country, our world
is gripped in the coronavirus pandemic. It
has changed our daily way of life like no other
event in my lifetime.
9/11 was truly horrible for those of us living in New York. And, as an
owner of a travel agency we shuttered our business essentially for three
months.
People didn’t have the confidence in traveling through the balance
of 2001. It wasn’t until January 2002 that people began to travel again.
But everything else pretty much stayed the same. Restaurants were
open; malls were a refuge to visit and shop. Baseball season was in full
swing and we looked forward to the new football season.
This coronavirus outbreak is different. Pretty much everything is shut
down. When the casinos shut down it’s not good. Casinos NEVER close.
I could go on, but we are all living this reality. By now, we all know
the rules. Make sure we practice social distance. Wash your hands! Stay
at home if you don’t have to go out. If you’re over 65 and/or have a
compromised immune system take extra care.
But as I said, THIS TOO SHALL PASS. We might not see the end of the
tunnel today, but I am confident that this crisis shall pass.
We will travel again. We will visit our out of town family and friends.
We will reestablish our Vegas Voyagers Bus to the Boat trips.
We will hold Vegas Voyager Travel Club meetings. We are already
working on trips for the end of 2020 and 2021.
I am an optimistic person by nature. As many of you know, I went
through an open heart surgery procedure back in June. It was scary; I
was scared; but I was also confident that I would come through and be
back 100%. And I feel great.
That’s how I feel about this coronavirus attack. I am confident we
will beat this scourge. We Americans have the capacity to beat any foe
and we will. Let’s face this task together and certainly by the summer
we will defeat this enemy.
Happy adventures to all and most importantly, be well and healthy.
36
This Too Shall Pass
April 2020
Hualapai Tribe Skywalk
By: Kathy Manney / Around Our World
Stupendous. Spectacular. Adjectives come
easy; however they seem inadequate in
describing Grand Canyon National Park and
Grand Canyon West.
Belonging to the Hualapai Tribe, “The People of the Tall Green
Pines,” are known for living along the rim of the Grand Canyon.
More than two-billion-years in creation, with the Colorado River
establishing its course through the canyon more than 17-millionyears-ago,
the river continues to erode and form the canyon. It is one of
the seven natural wonders of the world.
Hourly the
canyon’s appearance
is ever changing as
shadows deepen to
reds and take on the
color of orange and
wine, slashing side
canyons, pinnacles,
mesas and buttes.
The Hualapai Tribe
is distant cousins
and once neighbors
of the Hopi. Wanting
the Hualapai Tribe
removed from the
Grand Canyon, the
United States Army
harassed the tribe during the late 1800s, ultimately relocating them
in 1874 by a forced march to a reservation called Topaz on the lower
Colorado River.
Many of the Hualapai Tribe who made the cruel hundred mile desert
crossing died. Then in 1883, the surviving Hualapai were given back
their lands along the canyon’s southwestern rim and the huge Hualapai
Indian Reservation was created.
Today, millions of tourists visit the Hualapai Indian Reservation
resort area outside Grand Canyon National Park. One of the attractions
include the popular glass-bottomed Skywalk viewing platform. Built in
2007 its views include the Colorado River as it flows southward.
Rising tourist numbers and development have increasingly
encroached upon the park’s landscape, all of which managed by
complex and fragmented administrators from federal, state and tribal
landownership that complicate conservancy efforts.
During his visit in 1903, Teddy Roosevelt implored: “Leave it as it is.
You cannot improve on it. The ages have been at work on it and man
can only mar it.”
Nonetheless, the Hualapai Tribe’s Skywalk is well worth the visit to
see a different rim of the Grand Canyon.
Kathy Manney enjoys visiting interesting places and being an
Adventure Diva. Her “Must See” travel journeys continue - always
with enthusiasm.

Shelter in Place
By: Dan Roberts / Roberts Rules
“
You expect me to cook?” my Rana
exclaimed. She was “shocked, shocked” by
such statement.
No getting around it. At least for the time being, our world has
changed. Something unimaginable has swept my PILL’s (partner in
love & life) daily activities – no more restaurants.
Due to the coronavirus outbreak, whether we like it or not, our “set
ways” will change. And with the latest information warning those over
65, or diabetic or with health issues (“Congratulations Rana” I told
her. “You hit the trifecta.”) she, and by extension yours truly, have no
choice but to shelter in place.
As we were getting ready to self-quarantine for the next two weeks, we
did what apparently other crazy people were doing, rushing to Costco.
It wasn’t for water or even toilet paper but for items that according to
her were equally, if not more important – dog treats for her canines.
While customers were reaching for those large TP packages or cases
of water, there was Rana gleefully and happily grabbing 4 bags of doggie
treats. “Look at this” she joyfully proclaimed as if she hit the lottery.
“Different flavors - just in case Muffin wants something different.”
“And there’s no minimum. How lucky did we get!”
Now please don’t misunderstand. If I have to be locked up with
anyone it would be with my Rana.
So as I sat in my recliner hitting the TV remote every five seconds
screaming, “there’s no sports!” Rana was (almost) speechless when
she heard the Governor announce that all “non-essential” businesses
– including her nail and hair salons, would be immediately closed.
“Are you kidding me? If that’s NOT essential, I don’t know what
is.”
Anyway as I reached for those never used pots and pans, my Rana
asked, “What are you doing?”
When I explained that under this new normal, either she cooks or we
starve, once again and (as always) my Rana had the last word.
“You can put those things away” she said with a smile. Reaching
into that kitchen drawer, my PILL pulled out a handful of take-out
menus. “Chinese or Italian?” Rana inquired.
Make no mistake – the coronavirus is no match for my Ladylove.
37

38
April 2020
A Reminder to All
Vegas Voice Digital Media Manager and Publisher Dan’s Number 4 son
Ross reminding all our readers and everyone to stay safe, be smart and
prepared and... don’t be afraid to smile.

39

Speaking to and for Las Vegas
Valley Seniors since 2003
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