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March 2021
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PUBLISHER/EDITOR
PRESIDENT
VP ADVERTISING
POLITICAL EDITOR
ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR
NIGHT LIFE EDITOR
TRAVEL EDITOR
RADIO HOST
GRAPHICS EDITOR
DIGITAL MEDIA
VIDEO PRODUCTION
WEB DESIGN
PROJECT DIRECTOR
www.thevegasvoice.net
www.vegasvoicetv.net
OUR 18th YEAR
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
Jason Roberts
Success City Online
Bill Caserta
bill@thevegasvoice.net
Pat Alexander
Adrea Barrera
John Bielun
Liz Breier
Yvonne Cloutier
Dianne Davis
Sandi Davis
Chuck Dean
Jan Fair
Howard Galin
OUR FANTASTIC COLUMNISTS
Susan Goldfein
Linda Gomez
Ali Guggenheim
Dianne Hahn
Dan Hyde
Mike Landry
Heather Latimer
Gayla Kalp
BJ Killeen
Kathy Manney
Kyo Mitchell
Liz Palmer
Judy Polumbaum
Mary Richard
Renee Riendeau
Crystal Sarbacker
Jim Valkenburg
Beverly Washburn
Vicki Wentz
Kate Wind
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March 2021
PROUD
MEMBERS OF:
About The Vegas Voice
In 2020 The Vegas Voice received six national awards from the North
American Mature Publisher’s Association. The awards were for our investigative
articles, front-page design, editorials and columns.
As the judges stated (and we humbly agree): The Vegas Voice gets
credit for pulling no punches, striking hard… with its articles.
It’s unequivocal style leaves no room for readers to wonder where
it stands on senior issues.
It’s a Dog’s Life
By: Dan Roberts / Roberts Rules
“
You’re as crazy as Rana!” I blurted out in
disbelief.
My PILL (partner in love & life) and I were
having dinner last month with our Vegas Voice “This & That”
columnist Liz Breier and her husband Bill. While awaiting our meals,
we started talking about the pandemic.
Somehow the ladies’ conversation veered to “at least we have
our dogs” for joy and comfort. And
then Liz (without any hesitation or
embarrassment) mentioned that she
cooks for her two dogs.
Worse yet (from my point of view) she
tasted the stuff to make sure that the
dinner would meet with her canines’
approval.
While husband Bill (very smartly,
I might add) merely shrugged his
shoulders and smiled, I couldn’t help
expressing my thoughts and feelings.
I even admitted that before Liz’s
declaration, I believed that my Rana was the only insane animal chef.
Anyway I asked (more like “dared”) Liz if she would put pen-topaper
concerning her doggie culinary skills. And then my Ladylove
countered that “The Vegas Voice might want” (I love it when she only
“suggests” an idea – as if I have a choice) to do a “Pet Edition.”
To my surprise, a number of our columnists couldn’t wait to submit
their respective articles about their “fur babies” – both current and
past.
Hence the reasoning behind the theme for this month’s publication.
Now please don’t misunderstand me. I’m not animal-adverse and
like most of you, I grew up with pets from childhood to being the father
of four sons. There were dogs, cats, rabbits, hamsters and even geckos
in my home. Even today, my life (and as the photo shows, my bed) is
shared with Daisy and Muffin.
But as I settle into my senior years, I maintain a different attitude
from Rana as to possibly adopting (or more appropriately, they
adopting us) more animals. I have made it very clear that for Yours
Truly, going forward, I do not want another dog…or cat…or plant…
or even a pet rock.
Assuming we all survive the coronavirus and life returns to some
“normal” my goal is to travel with Rana and our Vegas Voyagers and
Vegas Vacationers clubs around the country and around the world –
anywhere and everywhere. Be it for days or
weeks without a thought as to “what about
the dogs?”
I also recognize that my wishes and
Rana’s wants could be solved with dogsitters.
So rather than disagree, I would be
smart to simply follow Bill’s actions – just
shrug, remain silent and go with the flow.
Who knows? Maybe Liz’s and Rana’s
culinary dog dishes might be good. After
all, their canines are more picky eaters
than I am.
* One final note. As my Rana sets forth in her article (page 24), last
month, we took a road trip to the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in
Utah. Rana said if I changed my mind and wanted to adopt an animal
as “my pet” it would be okay with her.
When I told her I wanted “this one” she told me “No.” Rana advised
that rather than adopting him, I should just look in the mirror. I still
don’t know what she meant.
Clarification
In my January column, I
expressed my opinion that living
in New York during the winter
is nuts. A (very) few readers
disagreed with my view.
A week later New York received 7
inches of snow. Three days later
they received 8 more.
Based on the picture received, I
stand by my original thoughts.
Only this time I do so laughing
out loud.
5
Editor’s Note: We couldn’t do a “pet
edition” without discussing one of the
most famous dogs in our time. We asked our
Beverly to reminisce about her time with “Old Yeller.”
The year was 1956 and I was asked to audition for the part of
“Lisbeth” in the Walt Disney film “Old Yeller.”
I was thrilled as animals are my passion. However, I really didn’t think
I would get the role since they were also filming the famous Mickey
Mouse Club at the same time. And, of course, any of the Mouseketeers
would have been wonderful in the role.
After meeting
and reading for
the role before
Walt Disney
and the director
Robert Stevenson,
and much to my
surprise, I got the
call saying I had
been cast. It was a
dream come true
for me.
We filmed for
three months and
it is definitely
one of my fondest
Best Dog in the World
By: Beverly Washburn / Hollywood Memories
memories. What
some of you
animal lovers might be interested to know, is that Old Yeller, whose real
name was “Spike” was a rescue dog!
They found him in a shelter and trained him. Unlike “Lassie”
and “Rin Tin Tin” where they had numerous Collies and German
Shepherds all playing the same role, there was only One Old Yeller. He
did every scene.
He was an amazing dog who did an amazing job. If I remember
right, his dressing room was even bigger than mine!
While the movie was supposed to have taken place in Texas, we never
went on location other than to Iverson Ranch which is about 50 miles
outside of LA. The majority of the filming was done on the stage at the
Walt Disney Studios in Burbank.
After all these year, I remain truly grateful and proud to have been a
part of what has been considered a “Classic Film.”
Another highlight for me was that I was able to go to school every day
in the big red trailer with all of the Mouseketeers. I’m still friends with
many of them today.
Until next time, remember: “Love is like a flower. If you don’t nurture
it, it will die.”
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.
6
March 2021
You Gotta Laugh
By: Bill Caserta / Bill’s Blurbs
While waiting for my first appointment
in the reception room of a new dentist,
I noticed his certificate, which bore his name.
Suddenly, I remembered that a boy with the same
name had been in my high school class some 50
years ago.
Upon seeing him, however, I quickly discarded any such thought.
This balding, gray-haired man with the deeply lined face was too old to
have been my classmate.
After he had examined my teeth, I asked him if he had attended the
local high school. “Yes,” he replied.
“When did you graduate?” I asked. He
answered, “In 1970.”
“Why, you were in my class!” I
exclaimed. He looked at me closely and
then asked, “What did you teach?”
* My wife didn’t order anything
from Amazon yesterday, so the UPS guy
knocked on our door to see if we’re okay.
* You know when you buy a bag of
salad and it gets all brown and soggy?
Cookies don’t do that.
And finally: Who would have
thought one day we’d be smoking weed
at a family gathering but the illegal part
would be the family gathering?
Bill & Buster
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.
7
You Are Making What? For Whom?
By: Liz Breier / This & That
My spouse walked into the kitchen to a large
pot steaming on the stove. He saw the
cutting board had been used so he asked, “what’s
for dinner?”
I can’t blame him for making the assumption that something was in
the works. He was only half right.
It would be unusual for me to be making a fuss for dinner mid-week,
and in fact that was not the case. I had to advise him it was not for him
– I was cooking for the dogs.
We all love our furry friends and mine are such poor eaters – snubbing
their wet little noses at anything from a can or a bag in the pet food
aisle or even something frozen shipped to us based on their “personal
preferences.” That’s right, I even tried filling out a questionnaire for
food to be prepared that they would enjoy – no luck there either.
I was happy when a friend shared a homemade recipe that they
guaranteed my dogs would devour and it would be healthy for them as
well. How could I not take the time to make them their own concoction?
What really sent my husband’s eyes rolling was when he discovered
me in the act of taste-testing. After all, ground turkey with fruits and
vegetables is just a bland mash that anyone can ingest so I’m not so
sure why I felt like I had been “caught” - but it is apparently something
I may never live down.
That’s okay, because I will be more clever or at least secretive when
I start baking snacks for my
Yorkies Ruby & Jingle.
If you are interested, the recipe
is below – just be careful if you
are tasting that you don’t get
caught in the act!
Cook 1 ½ cups brown rice. Heat
1 tbsp. olive oil in large stock pot
over medium heat. Add 3 lbs.
ground turkey and brown for 3-5
minutes, crumbling pieces as it
cooks.
Add 3 cups chopped baby
spinach, 2 shredded carrots, 1
shredded zucchini, ½ cup of
peas and the cooked rice. Add
handful of blueberries and/or
1-2 chopped apples.
Cook all additional 3-5
minutes. Place cooled mixture
in separate containers or zip lock
bags to freeze and use as needed.
Liz Breier is an ex-New Yorker who retired to Florida for 24 years
before deciding that Nevada means home to her. You can contact
Liz at: bluesky090372@gmail.com.
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8
March 2021
Me & My Boys
By: Adrea Nairne-Barrera / Senior Moments
Never one to miss an opportunity to talk
about my boys, last year was especially
hard and they have been a pure joy for me.
I have the responsibility to care for them so when I’m feeling blue,
I look at those magical faces and do something for them. No matter
what, they are total wag-a-dogs and love all the attention.
Dogs transcend logic.
They have abilities we don’t understand and sometimes I think they
are clearly more evolved than us mere humans. Their sensitivity and
perceptions are pure and they define unconditional love.
And when they are having a day of stubborn independence, they
make me laugh out loud. They know and I know that eventually I will
win because I am the pack leader.
But that doesn’t matter because they will stretch out the moment as
long as they can like petulant children.
Expert at learning routines, these little guys can manipulate the
moment any time
they choose. If they
want a treat, one
stands at the door to
go out first.
They go out to
do their business
and circle back in
knowing a treat is
on its way. I’m on
to it and most of
the time there’s no
business to be done
but they’re too cute
to deny.
Since one had
been a service dog
for my husband, we
go everywhere. They
have even been on
cruises, to out of
town casino hotels
and resorts.
I will say that
going to a specific place on a ship to poop is interesting. It’s a huge
kitty litter box and they want nothing to do with it! But we worked it
out.
The fun part on the cruise was when I had our picture taken and
people wanted to buy it before I ever saw it. Some ladies gave us the
heads up at breakfast so I ran to the gallery.
Just before Thanksgiving I took them for a photo shoot from a gift
certificate I received. They posed like they had done it a million times
before… and here we are.
Adrea likes to opine and find the lighter side of life as a senior.
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9
received my two shots, the Governor has
I loosened restrictions, and The Vegas Voice
will resume presenting world class shows with top
performing entertainers.
You’re all familiar with The Great American Song Book. Well, on
Saturday April 24 th Mark OToole will be bringing his crooner style to
Sun City MacDonald Ranch for two shows. A 4:30 & 7 pm show with
limited seating. Our special guest star will be our own Vegas Voice radio
host and comic impersonator Rich Natole.
Of course all social distancing, safety and health protocols and
requirements will be followed for our shows. Mark and Rich have been
a MacDonald Ranch favorite for many years, and we are thrilled to be
able to bring them back to the MacDonald Ranch showroom.
As I previously mentioned, our world class shows are coming back.
That’s because they are.
May 1 st we will bring back the Folk Legacy Trio. These great
performers hold the distinction of having the biggest crowd ever to see
a show at Sun City MacDonald Ranch.
George Grove, Rick Dougherty and Jerry Siggins - playing the
very best music of the great folk era. The three are starting a national
tour, and we’re fortunate to have them start with us.
They will be performing two shows on Saturday, May 1 st . And it
doesn’t stop there.
On Saturday, May 22 nd Genevieve and Michael Ross Nugent will
10
We’re Back!
By: Evan Davis / Entertainment Editor
Dressing Up My Pet
By: Sandi Davis / Fashion “Cents”
It has really been a year of less fashion and
more “how to fashion a mask with what is
on hand.”
The internet abounds with mask choices, including
some designers making masks that match your outfits.
But it’s getting better, and we are getting the vaccine.
Let’s celebrate Spring and all the wonderful
celebrations that are coming on the calendar.
This issue of The Vegas Voice is celebrating pets.
Evan and I had been actively looking for a shelter pet
that we could adopt, but that has proven fruitless for us.
We shifted to puppies, but the waiting lists are long,
and some require a nonrefundable deposit. But we are
still hopeful.
In the meantime, I do have pets. They do not eat,
bark, or roar, and they do not poop. They are stalwart and ever watchful.
They guard our front door and our pool. And I dress them up! I am a
Leo, and these four stone lions are my pets.
Whatever the event, or the season, these stone lions are the lucky
recipients (or perhaps victims) of my desire to dress up! Over Christmas,
they donned lighted wreaths around their necks, and Santa hats on
March 2021
also be performing two shows. You may remember their 2019/2020
New York, New Year’s Eve dinner show. They were and are simply
extraordinary.
All three of these performances will be in the MacDonald Ranch
showroom with tickets available at the Clubhouse Front Desk.
The excitement of getting back to performances in front of a live
audience is unmistakably one of the best feelings any performer can
have. As you know, I can’t sing, dance or tell jokes, however I also love
being on stage with a microphone in my hand hosting these shows.
I can’t wait for our opening show on April 24 th and I’m sure you
can’t either.
You can read Evan’s entertainment blog and sign up to receive
his free email weekly Calendar of Events at www.EvanDavisJazz.
com. Email him at: evan@thevegasvoice.net.
their massive heads.
Since Saint Patrick’s Day is in March, they are “Wearing the Green.”
And I have planned all year.
February is big red hearts, on a boa. March is the
jaunty hat and bows seen here. April is Easter Bunny
Ears and a big basket.
May is a baby lion in diaper between their legs, June
is the same with the addition of a cigar. July is Uncle
Sam on steroids, and birthday banners.
August? Well, I do need suggestions! September is
books and larger than life pencils. October is Halloween
style, November is Pilgrims and December is Santa,
Kwanza, and Hanukkah dress-up.
No, I did not forget January. That is stylishly nude.
And in the meantime, “ERIN GO BRAGH-less!” (I
really should not do this anymore; but it was popular
when I was in my twenties.)
REMEMBER: You do not have to look perfect; just feel good about
how you look, and it will show through.
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
11
46
An Ode Owed to Moose
By: Susan Roberts / Guest Column
In 2005, when my daughter left for college, I
decided I needed a puppy. I should have done
some research on breeds. Instead, I went for cute.
There he was, this tiny ball of fluff, with a face that stole my heart.
This 5 lb. Lhasa Apso puppy was the most adorable thing I’d ever seen.
He completely took over my life.
Thinking he’d be 10-16 pounds, we thought it would be funny
to name him Moose. At 25 pounds of solid muscle this fun-loving
rambunctious little guy grew into his name.
My mischievous, too smart-for-his-own-good clown was constantly
in trouble. His first week home he got his head stuck in an empty tissue
box, needing rescue.
One day, I found him standing in the kitchen sink. What a mud
bath! He had pushed the kitchen chair to the counter, jumped in, and
knocked the plants off the windowsill.
12
March 2021
Another time, he gently pulled a glove off the hand of a woman
standing nearby, trying to run with it. Attached to his leash, he didn’t
get far. He did lots of crazy things.
As he grew into an adult, I learned that Lhasas attach to one person
becoming very protective. That person was me.
He would growl and snap menacingly at anyone who might seem
threatening. He became very aggressive and bit a few people, including
my husband.
We had to tell people, “Don’t look at him. Don’t touch him. Ignore
him and he’ll ignore you.”
Sadly, in January he passed away at the age of 15 ½. I loved that
cranky boy. I was his mommy, and he was my baby.
Moosey, my problem child, it has been well over a month since you
left me. I will never stop loving you, my first ever pet, my furry four
legged child. My heart breaks with missing you, tears still flow.
Raising two children was easy compared to you, my moody, anxious,
cantankerous canine. I thank the universe every day for giving me the
opportunity to love and care for you, my fuzzy boy.
I owe you so much for all the love you gave me. I miss you. You are
in my heart forever!
Woman’s Best Friend?
By: Susan Goldfein / Susan’s Unfiltered Wit
am crestfallen, dejected. But let’s stick with
I crestfallen.
The word origin is animal-related, and my
unhappiness has everything to do
with an animal, and with an article I read concerning the
emotional life of dogs.
It’s no secret I’m a dog lover. When I started writing, we
cohabitated with two beautiful Labrador Retrievers, Bette
and Davis.
They inspired my first book, How Old Am I in Dog Years?
I believe they lived happily to the ripe old ages of 15 and 16,
respectively. I also believed they loved us.
Now there’s Sam, a 17-pound rough coat Russell Terrier,
my first small dog. I’ve discovered a small dog is a different
experience.
First of all, I can lift him, which I do, frequently. And while he’s in my
arms, I plant kisses on his head, and he, in turn, licks my face.
Sam sleeps in our bed and cuddles. Sam follows me around the house.
When he wants my attention he’s jealous if my focus is elsewhere.
I’m his primary caregiver and he’s clearly attached to me. He
forgives me for giving him sink baths. I adore Sam and was convinced
the feeling was reciprocal. Until now.
I thought he loved me for me. Because he senses I’m a good person
who occasionally feeds him table scraps and takes him to the dog park.
Because I rub his belly and tell him he’s a very good dog. I thought
our bond was unique, and in his dog brain, I was special. Wrong!
Said article revealed an inconvenient truth. Yes, my dog loves me,
but not because I’m me. He can’t help it. It’s in his canine DNA!
Apparently, dogs have an amazing ability to bond with other species.
Raise a dog with humans, it’ll bond with humans. But raise a dog with
sheep, it’ll bond with sheep. Or goats. Or penguins. You name it.
To quote, “dogs have an abnormal willingness to form strong
emotional bonds with anything that crosses their path.” I could be
replaced by a robot had Sam been introduced to one when he was still
in doggie diapers.
This knowledge is most disappointing. I almost feel
betrayed, although I realize it’s not Sam’s fault. But now
I’m confused. When Sam stares up at me with those big,
brown, soulful eyes, is he appreciating me, or might I just
as readily be an elephant?
But humans must be resilient. I wish I could unlearn this
new discovery, but I can’t. I can only hope one day animal
research will prove to be like health research.
Last month eggs were banned, and caffeine put you 24
hours nearer death. But research this month says to eat eggs
several times a week, and coffee gives you an edge when
playing “Jeopardy.”
So I’ll diligently read the newspaper, searching for studies
that negate the previous findings. Ideally, the next wave of animal
scientists will uncover evidence that dogs are uniquely programmed to
bond with humans. Particularly with women in their 70s.
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.
13
Tiniest Cafe Propelled by Chef
By: Sam Wagmeister / People & Places
As national dining chains and high profile
restaurants on the Las Vegas Strip have
fallen victim to Coronavirus, many small local
mom and pop operations have shown the grit
and guts to survive despite every changing restrictions meant to quell
the pandemic.
It would seem that the larger venues are better equipped to weather
the storm when a 35% (at press time) occupancy mandate could
mean a reduction from 100 diners to 35, for example. But when you’re
perhaps the tiniest Café in town, survival can depend on the strength
of leadership.
Sonia El-Nawal brought that strength to Rooster Boy, the 8-seat Café
on the lakefront of the west side’s Dessert Shores community.
El-Nawal’s road to Las Vegas resembles Indiana Jones’ route to the
treasure. Her journey included Brussels, Paris, New York, San Francisco,
Mexico City, sometimes offering to work for free…learning, preparing
and perfecting her craft and her management skills. She has been
Can’t Get to the Hair Salon?
By: Linda Bateman-Gomez / Timeless Beauty
Although there is hope on the horizon with
vaccines and continued safety measures,
we are not out of the woods yet!
For many, the hair salon has been a less
frequented place compared to normal, but our hair needs haven’t
changed, leaving us to look for alternatives.
Even before the pandemic, I have always colored my hair at
home and only use temporary, no peroxide, no ammonia hair color.
Continually on the hunt for a better option, I recently found a new one
that I just love!
quoted, “You can have the best of the best (staff)…but if they don’t
mesh well, your operation is not going to be successful.”
Chef Sonia’s skills were tested last March when Nevada mandated
statewide closures, ending indoor dining. “We turned around quickly to
become a general store,” selling staples stockpiled at restaurant supply
houses whose customers were forced to shutter milk, eggs, butter, sugar.
“We started doing what we had to to survive.”
Responding to customer’s requests for her legendary breakfasts,
El-Nawal reopened the two dozen outdoor dining seats and narrowed
down the restaurant’s choices.”I’m very clear on my brand,” she said.
Her dining and carryout menus included “comforting foods and
hearty soups.” Chef Sonia instituted what she refers to as her “narrowdown
philosophy” rotating a dozen or so most popular selections.
For El-Nawal, Covid is a “silent war”, unlike the “tangible war”
she experienced as a child when planes regularly bombed her native
Lebanon. At 12-years old she left with only a doll. But there Chef
Sonia developed her “love for food and generosity; it’s a culture of
(Mediterranean) food and sharing.”
Rooster Boy Café. 2620 Regatta Dr., Las Vegas. (702) 560-2453.
Wednesday – Sunday, 8:30 – 2:30. www.RoosterBoyCafe.com
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.
14
March 2021
In the past I have tried several, but none had a color that I felt looked
close to my normal color, especially when highlighted in the sun. That
is until I discovered Keracolor Clenditioner at Ulta!
The line has some crazy bright colors like pink and blue, but it also
has a several natural colors in silver, brown, dark brown, black and
blonde.
I have been using Mocha. It is a medium brown color without
leaning red or ash. It is a no-mix, cleansing conditioner that is heavily
pigmented.
There are no sulfates, no parabens and it’s cruelty free! The price is
also reasonable at $22 for the 12 oz. pump.
You can use it dry if you want it stronger or use it when your hair
is wet as a cleanser. The more you use, the more color it leaves. Wear
gloves and be sure to protect your clothing and furnishings as it will
stain.
Keep in mind Clenditioner does not act as a full coverage color or
last as long on gray hair, but rather it gives a nice color and helps to
blend and hide the gray. It is a wonderful alternative if you haven’t had
a chance to try an at-home color or want to check out a new color on
yourself.
Although it’s temporary, and should wash out in several washes,
it’s still good to do a small sample test. Depending on the color you
choose, and the current situation with your own color, make sure it’s
the effect you want. If your hair is chemically treated, it may not rinse
out as easily.
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.
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15
Corn-on-the-cob
By: Dianne Hahn / Back in the Days
When I was little, I desperately wanted a dog.
My parents bought me a goldfish instead.
It was like finding broccoli on your dinner plate
instead of corn-on-the cob.
We put the goldfish bowl in my room on the corner of my desk.
I named her Goldie and watched her swim when I was doing my
homework.
Before long, I was telling Goldie all my problems. She knew I was
usually the last one picked in gym class and that Nicky, the class bully,
lived down the street.
Goldie was my buddy, but one night she jumped out of her bowl
while I was asleep. I cried when I found her, but after the funeral I
crossed my fingers and asked for a dog again.
They bought me a yellow chick on Easter. I was back to broccoli,
craving corn-on-the-cob, but I named her Hazel. One day I came home
from school and Hazel was gone.
“We sent her to a farm,” my mother said. “She outgrew her cage.”
As we ate dinner that evening (roast chicken) I pictured Hazel
strolling around a barnyard happily pecking at bits of food in the dirt.
My thoughts turned to corn-on-the-cob.
“Can I get a dog now?” “I don’t want dog hair all over the house,”
my mother said.
Shortly thereafter, I saw a sign in front of a neighbor’s house.
16
Pet Peeves
By: Gayla Kalp / Life is Laughter
Maybe because I am getting more and more
cranky with all of the Covid restrictions,
I have been noticing some seriously annoying
things. Let’s start with restaurant occupancy
restrictions when Costco is bulging with people in the snack section is
seriously annoying!
How about the slow driver in the fast and middle driving lanes?
Psychologists call them “Passive Aggressive.” I asked one of these
creatures “what are they thinking?”
They explained that they were going the speed limit and everyone
else should too. Therefore, other drivers, who do not obey the speed
limit, can just drive around them.
I explained that this can cause the other drivers to become frustrated
and they will dangerously go around them causing an accident.
Mr. Passive Aggressive held to his theory of “going the speed limit.”
Seriously annoying!
March 2021
‘’FREE PUPPIES!”
A cardboard box sat
on their front lawn
and it rocked back
and forth.
A puppy peaked
out from the top
and toppled to the
ground. He was a
black and white, a
cuddly bundle of
Dianne with Wicket & Em
fur. I picked him up
and he snuggled in. my arms.
“Take him home,” called my neighbor. “No!” My mom said.
“Please! I’ll never ask for another thing as long as I live. I’ll look
after him, and feed him, and train him….” “Stop!”
Tears filled my eyes. “What do you want to name him, Dianne?”
Butchie, a wannabe Border Collie, chased Nicky away and filled my
life with doggie kisses, fun and joy! I finally got my corn-on-the-cob,
dripping with sweet, creamy butter!
A former schoolteacher, Dianne also writes for children. Presently
she has six kid’s books available on Amazon.com. You can also
see her on SCA-TV.
How about the one paper menu per table in the restaurants? Did
someone not inform me there was a major national paper epidemic in
which all paper sources had been wiped out? Seriously annoying!
My all-time annoying favorite is the driver who stops 3-5 car lengths
before the next car at the stop light. What is with that?
Talk about causing a traffic accident. I have even seen this driver do
this ritual at the stop light with no car in front of him. Seriously?
They say it is done to prevent accidents. Right! Other frustrated
drivers try to get into those ridiculous spaces this car creates and cause
accidents. Seriously annoying!
How do you like grocery stores blocking the aisle with huge carts
unloading canned goods, etc. at the height of the shopping hours? The
loader even gets angry if you block his cart! Seriously annoying!
My last annoyance is “the Mask.” I have been buying all these cute
masks and I assumed they were ”Covid safe.” I found out that 80% of
my masks, including the ones that I got at the drug store did not meet
Covid standards and were not safe!
Therefore, I was going through the misery of covering my face for
nothing! Not only have I wasted money, but I was putting myself and
others at risk. I was being seriously stupid & annoying!
Gayla is a speaker, author, psychologist and humorist. She has
been a guest speaker for television and radio programs, plus a
featured speaker for business and charity organizations. She also
happens to be Ms. Sr. California, Nevada and Universe England.
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17
By: Renee Riendeau / Movie Revelations
In 2013 Wil Haygood wrote a historical
drama called “A Butler Well Served By This
Election.” It was a true story about an African-
American butler named Eugene Allen who
served under eight Presidents as an employee
of the White House staff.
The movie “The Butler” (on Netflix) is set
against historical events but the title character
and his family are fictionalized. Only the
skeleton story of Allen’s novel is there. Director
Lee Daniels and script writer Danny Strong
transformed Allen into Cecil Gaines for the
film, played by Forest Whitaker.
As a young man, Cecil Gaines, living in the south among cotton
fields, witnessed both of his sharecropper parents brutalized by their
white boss. He left the south and found employment at an elite hotel in
Washington D.C.
His reputation gets him an opportunity of a lifetime and is hired to
be a butler at the White House. For three decades and eight Presidents
he had a front row seat to history and the inner working of the Oval
Office.
His commitment to the first family turns to tension at home
By: Pat Alexander / Art of Entertaining
You probably know I have favorite holidays,
favorite seasons, and even favorite months.
But did you know I have favorite days? In March,
it’s the 17 th , St. Patrick’s’ Day, celebrated with parades, green beer, Irish
soda bread, and corned beef and cabbage.
It’s special to me because it’s my birthday, hence the name Pat. I was
named Patricia because my grandmother said you did not disrespect
the saints and name a child born on St. Patty’s Day anything but
Patricia. My mother, being a dutiful daughter, complied.
Her first choice was Jacqueline; nice name, but I’m really glad she
didn’t choose it. Having been born on a holiday, everyone celebrates
with me. I get to wear one of my favorite colors, eat my favorite foods,
and old friends contact me from all over.
It’s been my habit to celebrate almost the whole month long, since I
don’t think one day is long enough to celebrate any birthday. My family
cooks dinners for me, usually over the course of weeks.
Friends take me out to my favorite restaurants. I receive some really
great gifts, enjoy corned beef and cabbage made by my sister and eat
pasta and peas, a childhood favorite that somehow tastes even better
on my birthday.
One birthday I had an invitation to the Lord Mayor’s Ball in Dublin. I
was so excited, but let business interfere and cancelled the trip.
Would I do that again? No! But I’m older and wiser. And if you know
the Lord Mayor, please tell him I’m still interested.
18
The Butler
It’s The Wearing of the Green
March 2021
alienating his drunken wife Gloria, played by Oprah Winfrey and a son
Lewis, played by David Oyelowo. They side with the anti-establishment
and becomes strong activists for the Civil Rights Movement.
During his 34 year tenure at the White House, Cecil experienced five
important historical events; the assassination
of JFK, the Voting Rights Act of 1965,
assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr., the
Vietnam War, and the resignation of Richard
Nixon.
By the end of this movie it was hard not
to feel moved. There were highs and lows in
the script that were genuinely rousing, yet
sentimental.
The cast is over the top: Forest, Oprah,
David plus other stars - Cuba Gooding Jr.,
Robin Williams, Jane Fonda, Terrence Howard, Lenny Kravitz, James
Marsden, Vanessa Redgrave, and many more.
The Butler is both informative and entertaining. I highly recommend
it and give it a Renee movie review rating of 5 out of 5.
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.
I asked my sister for her recipe and she shared it with me (and that
means with all of you, of course). Try it. It’s easy and delicious.
JO ANN’S CORNED BEEF AND CABBAGE
Place 3 lbs. flat cut corned beef in crock pot, add pickling spices from
package, 2 bottles of beer and water to cover. Cook on high for 3-1/2
hours, turn to low and cook for a total of 5 hours. Remove meat, slice
and keep warm in foil.
In the meantime, in separate pot, in water and flavored broth from
the corned beef pot, boil small red potatoes, baby carrots and green
cabbage, quartered. Test vegetables for doneness. Serve with butter and
mustard.
Pat Alexander writes about all things home. She is well known for
her cooking, parties and interior design, and consults on kitchen
and bath remodels.
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19
The Greatest “Con-Dog”
By: Rana Goodman / On My Soapbox
Nine years ago, when my daughter Michelle was
visiting family in North Carolina she emailed
me a picture of two adorable puppies with a note that
said, “Want one?” Now I ask you, what animal lover could resist that?
Michelle arrived home with the puppy, a Golden Doodle as a birthday
gift for me. I had just lost my beloved Zeus, a Labrador I had for 15 years,
so the puppy, along with my little rescue, Muffin filled a big gap. I named
her Daisy.
A friend told me that she had trained her Lab to ring a string of brass bells
that was tied to the patio door when the dog needed to go out. I thought
that was brilliant.
Well, Daisy didn’t go for the bells on the door, so I taught her to tap the
glass with her paw to let me know that she wanted to go into the yard. Part
of her training was to reward her with a treat after she did her thing and
returned to the house.
My two pups totally bonded and little Muffin took charge as Daisy’s mom,
although, as Daisy grew, and her golden fur turned white they looked more
like a giant and her tiny look-alike.
At first, as soon as both dogs returned to the house after their backyard
romp they would sit down at the spot in the kitchen where the treat box was
kept, but over the last year I noticed that Daisy was requesting to go out
more and more often.
I began watching her when she went outside and low and behold, she
just did an instant “about face” and walked back inside, heading straight
for the treat jar. I began asking her, as soon as she rapped at the door
signaling me to let her out, “do you really want out or are you conning
me?”
She just looks at me with those big brown eyes as if to say: “what do you
think?” Thank goodness Costco is close by when we need to refill our treat
supply!
A Guardianship Hero
By: Rana Goodman / Dan Roberts
Last month we received the sad news that our
friend, Rudy North, who fought so hard
along with his wife Renee to regain their freedom
from private guardian April Parks passed away.
It was their daughter Julie Belshe who approached
Rana to discuss her parents’ unbelievable story of
being legally abducted from their home. And when
we met with Julie, she urged us to meet with her
parents to see for ourselves.
Despite Dan’s overwhelming skepticism, we met.
Rudy’s gentle nature and kindness hid his fierce
passion to get their story out and to alert the senior
community that “if it could happen to them, it
could happen to anybody.”
It was their tale that provided the spark to uncover the guardianship
scandal in Nevada. Rudy, Renee and Julie’s non-stop fight for justice
20
March 2021
was featured in the award-winning film The
Guardians. And that’s Rudy’s face on the movie
poster.
April Parks succeeded in taking everything from
Rudy & Renee except their spirit. We’re certain that
no one who met them, nor people who saw the film
will ever forget them.
Daughter Julie Belshe worked tirelessly with us
(along with our other great friend, Sandy Lewis)
to achieve reform guardianship legislation. Our
collective efforts paid off - we witnessed April Parks
being placed in cuffs and now behind bars for her
actions towards Rudy…as well as countless other
innocent seniors whose only crime was growing old.
Rest in peace Rudy. Neither you nor
Renee will ever be forgotten by all of us who had the
pleasure of knowing you.
By: Chuck Dean / Vet 2 Vet
There is an oath every enlisted person takes
to serve in the United States Military. It was
the Oath of Enlistment.
“I, _____, do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and
defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies,
foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance
to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the President of the
United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me,
according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice.
So help me God.”
Nowhere is there a stipulation that this oath expires. It’s an oath - a
solemn promise of future action and behavior.
In 2021, between trials of trying to stay safe and control a pandemic,
and doing the right things for our country, we must remain steadfast. It
is important for us to live out who we are in this day and age, and there
is another vow that I recommend. It’s called the Veteran’s Creed.
I am a United States military veteran. I mastered the weapons,
tools and techniques of war and security and I make no apology
for the proficiency...
Foremost among
first responders, I
earned the ribbons
of a volunteer,
endeavor, defender,
Veteran’s Creed
No dog or cat
for our Vet
columnist, but
he does have a
turtle – Lucky.
warrior, rescuer,
problem-solver,
and model citizen.
I am the visible
conscience of a
nation with regard
to the costs of war
and freedom’s true
price.
I do not fail to
support another vet who crosses my path with any need, large or
small; he or she may have wounds or hardships that few others
would understand.
I am part of the eternal flame of memory, of my brother and
sister veterans who died in service to our country. Honor, courage,
and commitment define me to this day…
In all of the remaining moments of my life, I will be steadfast
guardian of American ideals, freedoms, and history.
I am a one-percenter of the noblest order. I am an American
veteran.
March on and be safe.
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
21
Astrology in the News
By: Kate Wind / Kate’s Insight
We are 3 months into the new year and
already have a lot of astrology news to
report. Let’s take a look at some recent events and
how it fits into the stars.
Saturn entered a 2.5 year stay in Aquarius in the beginning of
2020, which promised the popularity of air and space. While the 2020
conversation revolved around “giving me my (air) space” (6 feet
apart), 2021 kicked off with Perseverance touching down on Mars.
Aquarius represents advancements in technology, factual information
and even aliens. We should continue to see technological advancements
as we watch Saturn travel in Aquarius through March 2023.
The other major astrology talking point of 2021 are the three squares
(90 degree angles) between Uranus and Saturn. The first one happened
on February 17 th with two more to follow on June 15 th and Dec 24, 2021.
Adventures With Mia
By: Ali Guggenheim / Psychic Phenomenon
Did you know that cats believe people are
unsuccessful hunters? That is why they gift
us with their prey, dead or alive, such as birds,
lizards, and other creatures.
Mia, my cat, knows she isn’t allowed to chase animals in our yard.
Because Mia understands this, she doesn’t attempt to bother them.
That’s why, feeling unthreatened, the rabbits feel free to hop in and
out as they please. Everyday Mia watches me chase rabbits out of the
yard, but she’s never seen me catch any. To her, they seem to “get away.”
Last July, everything changed. Mia decided to help me by chasing a
baby rabbit into our home. I could sense the fear as this poor rabbit
barely stayed ahead of her.
Saturn represents restrictions, rules, guidelines, masculine energy
and things that have stood for a long time - meaning things we take for
granted or assume will always be. Uranus on the other hand, represents
unexpected turns of events, shocking and fast-paced news, electricity
and technology.
When these two planets make a square, we will witness the struggle
of power between the old and the new and the government versus the
collective.
Last month, 2-3 million people were left without power, which
brought up some serious conversations about power and authority
regulations and the overwhelmed power grid. Given the two additional
meetings of these planets later this year, we should continue to see
issues revolving around electricity and plans to create more sustainable
conditions.
Lastly, we are officially in the Year of the Metal Ox. The Ox represents
hard and steady work compared to the Rat which amplified disease
and scavenger energy. The Metal Ox also resembles the Wall Street Bull
suggesting some unexpected news in the stocks and what we value as
a society.
22
March 2021
“NO MIA!” I screamed as I watched them chasing around the house
while envisioning the worst possible scenarios. What if Mia caught the
rabbit and blood and guts were scattered all over? What if the rabbit
hides inside the couch, dies and stinks up the house?
While searching for the rabbit, I noticed a “Hansel and Gretel” gray
trail of fur, or so I thought, leading out of the laundry room. Certain
that one of my visions came true I soon realized that I was wrong.
It was merely a bunch of lint from behind my washer and drier
(where I never clean). Mia, who never sits in the laundry room, was
lying in wait at the only entryway to the back of the washer and drier. At
that moment the phone rang!
My best friend got an unexpected panicked earful from me. “Let
me come over and help you catch it,” she said. Somewhat relieved I
accepted her offer.
We were both masked and gloved when she arrived. She got behind
the drier, and with a broom, nudged it towards the gigantic box that I
was holding. The rabbit was caught and released.
The next day, my friend called to tell me that she had been exposed
to the coronavirus. The following day she was very ill - lasting six long
weeks. My scariest fourteen days ever, but fortunately I was not infected
- and neither was Mia.
To contact Ali or for spiritual consultations, coaching, workshops
and readings, email: alivegasvoice@yahoo.com.
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23
Best Friends Animal Sanctuary
O
By: Rana Goodman n President’s Day weekend,
publisher Dan and I took a drive to
Kanab, Utah to visit Best Friends Animal Sanctuary which sits nestled
in the amazingly colorful and scenic hills above St. George.
Over the years I have heard so much about Best Friends but never
took the time to drive up there and see for
myself. Never did I expect to find what we did
as we took our tour.
Best Friends sits on 4,000 acres of wonderful
open land with trails, trees, and room to play.
Usually, the sanctuary has an average of 1,900
animals of assorted species at any one time.
Unlike the shelters we all have in our
hometowns, thanks to the space that Best
Friends encompasses, none of the animals
are in cages or small runs. They all have the
freedom of being inside or out in the fenced
areas in which to play and roam.
The horses, pigs, cats and dogs we visited are
tended by their many volunteers, making all
the animals used to visitors, even if they were
shy or afraid when first arriving there.
Another thing that warmed me was the fact
that they require all animals housed with “a
buddy.” Unlike the pictures we often see of
dogs or cats alone in a corner hoping someone will pay attention to
them, Best Friends matches them up with “best friends” of their own.
Founded in 1984, Best Friends is a pioneer in the “no-kill” movement,
and as such, works with shelters and rescues across the country to
reduce the number of animals that are euthanized each year. They are
Rana with her Daisy & Muffin along
with Barbara Williamson (left) and Kira
Ikeda (right) from Best Friends Animal
Sanctuary
determined to bring the U.S. into a no-kill format by 2025.
The sanctuary is also a safe haven and home to many wildlife
species. While we were there, we were lucky enough to spot several deer
wandering and even joining horses in their arena.
Just a couple of miles away, Best Friend’s also has the Best Friend’s
Roadhouse, a charming comfortable place
to stay where “pets are not only welcome,
but they are also expected.” In fact if you
are thinking of adopting one of the dogs or
cats you see on your tour, you can request a
sleep-over with them at the Roadhouse before
making the decision to adopt.
We took our two dogs with us for the trip
as did most of the other guests we saw at the
Roadhouse which also features an enclosed
dog park on the property. Our dogs were even
greeted, as we entered our room with a sign
bearing their names right over the welcoming
water bowls.
It seems, in designing the Roadhouse, pets
were foremost on Best Friends’ mind since
the room, the entry and exit from the dog
park provide a safety gate to stop your pet
from running out as you exit. Our room even
featured a large dog bed built into the foot of
the king-sized bed and in the corner was a “cubby hole with a bed to
give a shy 4-legged guest a cozy place to hang out.
If you are animal lovers as we are, we highly recommend a visit up
there. I know I certainly will continue to support their work, their “no
kill” mission and will go back often.
24
March 2021
25
Superior Species
By: Judy Polumbaum / Our View
Some months into the pandemic, I read about
an ongoing study into dog vocalization.
What sets off a dog?
The researchers were inviting dog owners
to volunteer their pets as subjects and, if
selected, to send in videos of their dogs
responding to prompts in the environment.
I was thrilled at the prospect that my two
little rescues might contribute to this project.
They are smallish tri-colored females –
littermates, we assume, since they came
together from a shelter in Chicago, although
the details of their origins are lost to history.
I’ve long been a Beagle person, which requires judicious calculations
about indoors versus outdoors, and sometimes negotiations with
neighbors since Beagles can be noisy.
Encounters with other dogs, or with people, or the glimpse of a rabbit
or lizard, or merely a rustle in the bushes, are likely to elicit annoying
barking. Other signals – sirens in the distance, or who knows what
vibrations inaudible to humans – can trigger truly fantastic crooning.
And our girls seldom croon exactly in synch; they have a kind of calland-response
thing going.
To my disappointment, the vocalization study turned out to be
oversubscribed, and our offer to participate was declined. So we are left
as before, to our own interpretations of canine communications.
Thus, the bark in response to a delivery at the door is an alert. The
bark toward another dog is exhortation.
The bark hailing people extends friendship. The special exuberance
for small children conveys shared stature and kindred feeling.
And those marvelous duets? Our dogs are
training for the opera, of course.
We tend to anthropomorphize everything
as we suss out these messages in human
terms. We sometimes forget that dogs are
another species – certainly far more gifted
than humans in certain sensory abilities,
and perhaps superior in their ability to
beguile us into emotional, logistical and
financial enslavement, but also different from us.
Legions of studies show that pets are good for our mental and physical
health. Less commented upon is their importance in existential terms.
Our beloved animals remind us that this planet we think we have
conquered belongs to a myriad of other life forms. We will never crack
all their codes.
Judy is a professor emerita of journalism and a transplant to
Las Vegas from New England via China, the West Coast and the
Midwest.
26
March 2021
A Friendship Story
By: Mike Landry / Golf Fore Ever
In my January column I mentioned that I
was not a fan of wearing a mask on the golf
course and would rather quit the game if forced
to wear one.
I heard from a few people who advised how horrible it was of me to
write this piece and why my article was allowed to be printed (can you
say cancel culture?). I happen to be a Marine who loves and fought for
this country.
When my liberties are threatened, it’s normal for me to say something
and not cower. Nuff said!
MIke & Asia
Now on to my friendship story. I have a good golf buddy of 30 years
named Robert. My buddy developed a special relationship with a golfer
from Indiana. His name also happens to be Bob and they met on a Las
Vegas golf course more than 35 years ago.
They got along so well that after that first round, they had a burger
and drinks and exchanged information. It turns out that Bob from
Indiana loved Las Vegas so much that each year he would travel with
his wife in their RV and spend a week playing different golf courses here
and always included my friend Robert.
When Bob was in town, my friend Robert invited me to play with
them a couple of times during the week. Bob always insisted on paying
for everyone’s golf and was extremely generous and insisted on picking
up the tab for food and beverages.
Here’s the kicker. Bob insisted on making certain bets and although
he was an average player, with his math skills, mulligans and improved
lies, he managed to win most bets.
Bob a successful machine shop owner was also president of Madison’s
Hydroplane Club and his boat raced in Las Vegas, Dubai and in San
Diego. Guess what happened when they competed in town or San
Diego? Robert and I got front row seats to watch the races with Bob.
Bob is now 90 years old and quit traveling to Las Vegas. Over the years
Robert would travel to Indiana to play golf with Bob.
These two have an amazing friendship. The golf course is a great
place to meet great people and develop lasting friendships.
Until then, hit “em” straight!
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
27
Cars & Pets
By: BJ Killeen / Down the Road
While I want to participate in this month’s
themed edition, my wonderful kitty Rusty
passed away a year ago, so as of right now, I’m
pet free because I travel too much.
There is a puppy or kitty in my future
(probably both), but not right now.
However, that doesn’t mean I can’t
talk about pets, and how a great
car company, Subaru, has done
a tremendous job of making sure
animals are a top priority.
Subaru, makers of the venerable
Outback, Forester, and other full-time all-wheel-drive vehicles, has
been involved with animals through it’s popular and ongoing Subaru
Loves Pets initiative as part of its corporate Love Promise. While the
Promise makes a lot of donations and does a lot of good for a variety of
charities, one of the biggest is its commitment to help all animals, free
and in shelters, stay safe and healthy.
Since 2015, Subaru retailers have partnered with local animal
welfare organizations to impact over 230,000 animals in need across
the country. It has donated almost $30 million over the years to helping
animals, and Subaru even brings pets into its booth at auto shows for
people to adopt.
It features animals in its ads, and celebrates national Make a Dog
Day, which focuses on hard-to-adopt dogs. Subaru also encourages its
retailers to hold pet adoption days at their dealerships.
Every December, Subaru participates in its Share the Love event;
when you buy a Subaru in December,
they will make a donation to one of
a handful of select charities, and
the ASPCA is one of the chosen.
Through this program, Subaru has
donated nearly $22 million to the
ASPCA, helped support over 1,500
animal welfare-related events, and
significantly impacted the rescue, transport, and adoption of more
than 64,000 animals nationwide.
That’s true love.
While it’s easy to bash big automotive manufacturers for a lot of
reasons, please remember to appreciate and support those who are
going above and beyond to help those wonderful, less-fortunate fur
babies. For more information on the Subaru Love Promise, visit the
website at Subaru.com.
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
By: Jim Valkenburg / Insurance Insight
We all know about “porch pirates” who
steal our packages. So how do we keep
our packages safe and are these stolen goods
covered under your home or renter’s insurance
policy? First, to combat these thieves:
1. Install a BoxLock. These are smart padlocks. The delivery person
scans the package, and if the bar code matches, the box opens so they
can leave it inside.
2. Install security camera. This might deter thieves if they think you
are watching. With some devices, you can see the thief and talk or yell
at them.
3. Track your packages by signing up for alerts. FedEx, UPS and
USPS all offer text, e-mail and app alerts so you know when a delivery
will be made.
4. Require a signature. This is a sure way to receive your package.
5. Use Amazon Key or Locker – investigate these if you are comfortable
letting an Amazon courier inside your home.
6. If you are still working, plan to be away, etc. you can have the
packages sent to your work or to your grown children or a neighbor.
How can the loss of your packages relate to your insurance? If you
have a homeowners, condo owners or a renter’s policy, you have theft
coverage. The theft coverage is consistent from company to company
and may be worded exactly the same by many companies.
28
Stolen Packages Not Restricted To Holidays
March 2021
Once the package is delivered, it is now your responsibility. The
good news is that it is covered under
your policy. The “bad” news is that your
deductible applies first.
Most people have a $500 or $1000
deductible. That means that the value
of the theft has to be higher than your
deductible.
If you ordered a complete dining set
from Wayfair for $2,000, it’s covered
after your deductible. If you order a
$200 birthday present for someone, don’t
bother to call your insurance company
because it’s lower than your deductible.
This was Ginger,
who we lost several
years ago. She was a
member of the family
and is still missed.
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.
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29
Use your home
equity to keep your
Retirement on Track
2020 has brought many things to a
halt, but it doesn’t have to disrupt your
retirement plans. Your home equity is a
powerful tool that can help propel you
towards your retirement goals.
• Reduce expenses by eliminating
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• Preserve your invested assets
• Provide a safety net for any
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Turning the Tide
By: Barbara Altman
Nevada appears to be
turning the tide against
COVID-19, as the number of
Nevadans testing positive continues to decline.
I’m happy to see this because older people, like me, have been
particularly vulnerable. I’ve socially isolated and wear a mask in order
to reduce my chance of getting COVID-19.
However, if I needed to be admitted
to the hospital, I know that I’d receive
the best of care. Our local hospitals
and frontline workers have worked
around the clock to give patients a
fighting chance.
They’ve also kept the larger
community safe by limiting who
can enter the hospital and giving the
Publisher Dan got his shot.
Make sure you get yours.
vaccine to their staff as soon as they can. The situation would be far
worse if we didn’t have the support and care provided by local hospitals.
Just as seniors have relied on their local hospitals to care for them,
frontline heroes have relied on us to mask up and practice social
distancing. Now, they’re relying on us to get vaccinated as soon as
possible.
I’ll be first in line to get the vaccine once it’s my turn, because I know
it’s the fastest way for us to get out of this mess. I know the vaccine is
safe, because it went through vigorous clinical trials, was approved by
the CDC and received emergency use authorization by the FDA.
I encourage all seniors to join me in getting vaccinated once it’s their
turn, and until then, mask up, wash your hands often, and socially
isolate.
Barbara Altman is the Forum Vice-President of the Nevada Silver
Haired Legislative Forum
Doris Batty
NMLS-420458
George Lagarde
NMLS-18581
Sandy Rhody
NMLS-1427216
Keep your plans for retirement in motion,
contact us today to discuss your options.
(702) 620-4005
reverseteam@financeofamerica.com
This material is not from HUD or FHA and has not been approved by HUD or any government agency.
* The borrower must meet all loan obligations, including living in the property as the principal residence and
paying property charges, including property taxes, fees, hazard insurance. The borrower must maintain the
home. If the borrower does not meet these loan obligations, then the loan will need to be repaid.
©2020Finance of America Mortgage LLC is licensed nationwide | EHL Logo | NMLS ID #1071 (www.
nmlsconsumeraccess.org) | 300 Welsh Road, Building 5, Horsham, PA 19044 | (800) 355-5626 | AZ Mortgage
Banker License #0910184 | Licensed by the Department of Business Oversight under the California Residential
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| Licensed by the N.J. Department of Banking and Insurance | Licensed Mortgage Banker -- NYS Banking
Department | Rhode Island Licensed Lender | Massachusetts Lender/Broker License MC1071.
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30
March 2021
Preparing for Spring
By: Howard Galin / Happy Gardening
March is the first full month of “Growing
Season 2021” and there are many projects
to start. In order to be organized, divide these
activities into three categories.
1. Soil/Ground: If you have not already done so, it is time to add
needed nutrients to your soil for the new season. First apply all-purpose
fertilizer such as Miracle Gro throughout your garden.
In addition, I recommend high phosphorous additives be added
around all flowering plants and bushes. There are specialized fertilizers
for cactus, succulents, palms, fruits and vegetables that should also be
applied. In addition, all rose bushes should get treated with Epsom Salt
to provide needed magnesium sulphate to the roots.
If you’re planning to add new rock mulch to your garden, first apply
sulfur in order to lower the pH levels. If you are adding organic mulch,
remember to first treat the soil with diatomaceous soil (available at
gardening centers) to prevent roach, spider, scorpion, slug and grub
infestation caused by the damp decomposing organic matter.
2. Watering/Irrigation: Spring irrigation scheduling begins in
March. Remember to reset your timers for three days a week. Check the
underground irrigation valve box for leaks and apply the diatomaceous
soil inside the box to keep scorpions and Black Widow Spiders away.
You should check your drip system for damage and replace where
necessary. Clogged drip emitters can be cleaned by removing the
emitters and soaking them in vinegar overnight.
Choose where new plantings will be situated and add new irrigation
tubing and emitters. Make sure that all irrigation tubing is properly
buried in the ground (approximately 2 inches) since rabbits, rats, and
mice will chew into exposed tubing to access water.
3. Planting: The earlier you get your plants into the ground, the
more time they will have to establish strong roots and vibrant growth.
In order to prevent cold weather frost damage, place Styrofoam cups
over young plants transplanted from flats.
This is especially important at night during the early part of the
month. By month’s end, warmer evenings will arrive.
Have a question? Contact me at: 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.
31
My Two Fur Babies
By: Mary Richard / Health Fitness
I
’ve read and heard many times that people
who are pet owners tend to live longer. Yes, I
believe it to be true. I’ve been a pet momma most
of my life, having dogs, cats, a rabbit, parakeet and turtles (not all at
one time, though!)
At present, I am the proud momma to two beautiful kitties, Pierre
and Andre. Pierre is a Maine Coon/Tabby mix and Andre a black and
white tuxedo. Both are rescue kitties.
Pierre was adopted from the Nevada Humane Society when he was
5 months old and Andre was found abandoned under a shrub at one
month. Andre was turned into my vet by a kind stranger who found
him, and I brought this beauty into my home.
They have been such a joy and I never know what to expect -
especially from Andre. The little mischief maker likes to open up my
cabinets and throw items on the floor.
He’s a very curious creature. Pierre, on the other hand, is very gentle,
and is forever watching Andre getting into mischief.
This April Andre will be seven years old and in July Pierre will be
eight. I never regret adopting them (or did they adopt me?)
I started writing a children’s book about Andre’s antics and one of
these days I’ll finish the book!
When I’m playing my Zumba music to arrange playlists for my
classes, they are both nearby listening with their ears twitching. I know
when they approve a song - is that crazy or what?
At times when I’m creating choreography, they are watching with
tails wagging. Zumba kitties I call them!
So, yes, they bring such joy to me, especially during this pandemic
time. So if you are looking for a fur baby companionship that gives you
daily loves and comfort, think of adopting a beautiful dog or kitty from
a rescue or animal shelter.
For however long they are with you, every day is a joy and helps you
live longer!
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.
Advances in Pain Treatment
By: Kyo Mitchell / A Healthier You
Last month I wrote on the use of an electrical
stimulation device known
as alpha-stim to help treat
anxiety, depression and insomnia.
I have never received so many responses from
readers asking to know more about this. They stated
that they no longer wanted to be dependent on drugs
to help them with these conditions and wanted an
alternative with no side effects.
In that light, I think it appropriate to address a
similar issue. Many elderly patients suffer from pain.
The conventional medical approach is to give
some form of pain killer, whether that be an antiinflammatory,
an opioid based drug etc. Where these
remedies do provide relief, there can be side effects, they may become
less effective, or they may become addictive.
What most people may not be aware of is that there are other means
of decreasing pain that are not pharmaceutically based. Just as the
alpha-stim machine sends an electrical signal to alter the physiology
associated with anxiety, depression and insomnia, microcurrent can
be used to change the physiology of the body to decrease or stop pain –
sometimes permanently.
32
March 2021
Microcurrent is not the same as a TENS machine which simply
overwhelms a nerve’s ability to fire so you do not feel pain while the
machine is on. Microcurrent signals specific aspects of the physiology
of the body to naturally correct a problem, such as
being stuck in a chronic inflammatory cycle.
Because it focuses on specific aspects of physiology,
microcurrent is a little more complex to use than the
alpha-stim machine. With the alpha stim machine,
you attach it to your earlobes and turn it on. It is a
one size fits all deal.
The microcurrent has to be programmed
specifically for what is wrong that is causing the
pain. This means addressing both the tissue(s)
affected and what has been done to cause pain.
This form of treatment can be done in a doctor’s
office (I use it daily in my practice) or the machine can be purchased,
and the person uses it at home as needed. If you are suffering from
pain, and drugs are not working or having side effects, you may want
to look into this option.
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.
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Our website also offers additional diabetes support resources, including the
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Are you ready to start living your healthiest life possible?
Visit GetHealthyClarkCounty.org today!
Funding provided by Nevada’s Division of Public and Behavioral Health by Grant #1NB01OT009322-01-00 from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
33
Staying Safe with
MicroShield
By: Carol Chapman
In the age of COVID many organizations have
publicized what they’ve done to keep their
employees safe. Many of them have simply sent their employees home
to work online.
The Foundation Assisting Seniors does not have that option. Seniors
and veterans need durable medical equipment, with some of it coming
from our storage units and some coming from the small storeroom we
have at our offices.
We recognize our responsibilities in keeping our clients, volunteers
and donors safe, so we’ve employed MicroShield 360º in all our
facilities. Initially, we used this product to kill superbugs such as MRSA
that could be lingering on medical equipment. When the pandemic
hit, we immediately expanded its use.
MicroShield 360º is an electrostatic antimicrobial spray applied to
furnishings and the office environment which kills viruses, including
the coronavirus, for up to a year. It kills the germs on contact by
breaking them up, rendering them harmless.
Since 2019 we’ve utilized MicroShield 360º on our delivery vans,
durable medical equipment, and furniture. We’ve also used it on staff’s
personal cars in case we need to make a small, quick delivery.
If you would like more information on MicroShield 360º, feel
free to contact us, and we’ll put you in touch with Jim Spencer, our
MicroShield representative.
Borrowing / Returning
Books - Honor Basis
By: Heather Latimer / Heather’s Self-Help Tips
Many of us were not regular readers prior to
COVID-19. There were too many exciting
attractions around town that lured us to their doors.
Nowadays, when we’re stuck at home, it’s essential to engage
in pursuits that keep our brains and
emotions in action.
Reading is beneficial. Many
community and club premises have free
honor-libraries already in existence and
now is a good time to use them. They
offer titles purchased from stores by
earlier readers and later donated to them.
Fiction transports us to locales and
situations that relieve the monotony
of isolation. Non-Fiction is often
educational and either augments what
we already know or introduces us to fresh
subjects we could put into practice.
Local author Stephen Murray is an advocate for Alzheimer’s patients,
Veterans, and the Aged. He produces novels that seniors favor. That’s
because he focuses on familiar Las Vegas themes and venues and never
uses offensive language.
Also, instead of heavy hardbacks that are painful to keep open by
people suffering with arthritic hands, his books are lightweight and
easy to hold. Those best-sellers frequently turn up in honor-libraries.
Look for “Chapel of Eternal Love - Wedding Stories From Las Vegas,”
and others.
My novel “Forever is Too Long” features Las Vegas, and my recent
self-help books are beginning to reach honor libraries too.
Heather Latimer is a nationally recognized specialist in making
difficult subjects easy and author of 17 books. See amazon.com/
heather latimer/how to overcome.
34
March 2021
Helen Reddy
By: Yvonne Cloutier / Musical Moments
Helen Maxine Lamond Reddy was born on
October 25, 1941, in Melbourne, Australia,
the only child of Max Reddy, a writer, producer,
actor; and actress Stella Lamond Reddy. Her parents performed on the
Australian vaudeville circuit. Helen joined them at age 4.
She had a big music reputation on Australian TV before being known
primarily for her hit song, I Am Woman, Hear Me Roar. The song
becoming the feminist anthem of the 70s, along with her becoming an
international star.
She originally won a trip to the US along with a record-company
audition in 1966
for winning a talent
contest sponsored
by Bandstand. The
audition did not work
out but started a slow
but always uphill
career.
After making
records for 27 labels
that rejected her,
Capitol Records signed
her in 1970. She and
her new husband /manager lived on a “shoestring”, but as she wrote
“had spaghetti and a little money left over for cockroach spray.”
Gradually becoming successful, she continued with two more songs
in the 1970s, Delta Dawn and Angie Baby, both ranking Number 1
on the Billboard charts. Three others: You and Me Against the World,
Leave Me Alone, and Ain’t No Way to Treat a Lady, reached the Top
10.
Helen made her screen debut with Airport 1975. She then starred in
a Disney movie, Pete’s Dragon.
In the 1980s, Reddy did many appearances on variety, music talk
shows, and Vegas shows. She also did two shows a night, seven nights
a week in Las Vegas.
Her last song to make the American charts was in 1981 I Can’t Say
Goodbye to You. More than 30 years later, she was declared queen of
70’s pops.
Though retired in 2002, like many entertainers, she announced her
comeback. In 2012, she made several concert appearances. Helen also
returned to school, learning clinical hypnotherapy at UCLA.
She also practiced as a therapist and motivational speaker. She was a
believer in past regressions.
Reddy married 3 times and had two children, one each by the first
two husbands.
Helen Reddy died at age 78 on Sept 28, 2020.
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.
35
Stupid Scam of the Month
Looks like Publisher Dan hit
the jackpot (again). The
best part - he doesn’t even know
anything about the hotel business.
Anybody think it’s true?
Once again, those are NOT typos
but the actual email. We know
scammers need to only deceive one
(out of the millions) but we ask
again: Is anybody that stupid?
And take a look at our No BS Tip
of the Month. That’s our Bill Blurb columnist Bill Caserta as “Dr.
Covid.” Check out all our scams videos on our YouTube channel:
YouTube.com/c/VegasVoiceTV
To: dan@thevegasvoice.net
From: ginny igaa <ginny.igaxxx@gmail.com>
My Dear: Please kindly receive this letter with due
respect as it might be very strange to you since I
haven`t communicated you or know each other before,
I am Miss Ginny Igaa and my late Father was a victims
of war in my country Cote d`Ivoire, my late father was
a Cacao beans Merchant before he was killed by rebels
during the recent war.
Please I am seeking for your kind assistance to help
me to come and invest my inheritance money $12.5
Million Dollars into hotel business in your country
so that you will help me to manage it on my behalf
because I do not have any business experience before
to manage the huge amount I inherited from my late
father. Presently the Money is a Trunk box with a
security company were my late father deposited it.
Best regards, Miss Ginny Igaa
No BS Tip of the Month
Anyone who asks for payment for the
COVID-19 vaccination, OR to put you
on a vaccination list OR to make an
appointment for you OR to even reserve
a spot in line is a scammer.
And no one from a legitimate
vaccination site will ever ask you for
your credit card number or Social
Security information.
Remember our Number 1 Vegas Voice
Scams, Schemes and Senior Safety
rule: Never, never, never give out that
personal information. NEVER, NEVER,
NEVER.
And hang up - or delete Dr. Covid.
36
March 2021
We Are One!
By: Dan Hyde / Call to Action
The date - October 14, 1987. The place –
Midland, Texas. The event – 18 month old
Jessica McClure “Baby Jessica” was rescued from
a well after falling 22 feet.
Over 100 million Americans (including me) were fixated to
their televisions anxiously waiting to see if our prayers were being
heard to save this infant. The result: a miraculous recovery that few
believed was possible.
Why were so many of us completely obsessed with this little girl’s
well-being?
She wasn’t our daughter, sister or a family friend. We didn’t know
her. What was it that captivated so many of us that once she was
rescued, we all cried with gratitude and relief.
Maybe because it could have been “my little girl” and we could easily
emphasize with her plight. Who among us at that time didn’t feel the
tragedy brewing deep in our heart of hearts?
As human beings, we are all connected in ways that few among
understand. Unfortunately, from time-to-time, we need a tragedy
that we can identify with that instantly connects us in shared deep
emotional ties.
It goes right to the depths of our souls and it does so instantly! Think
about it. Reflect back to that moment and it brings up a deep emotional
response.
That October 1987 date should be branded in our collective
souls. That miraculous event that occurred nearly 34 years ago, did, for
one brief moment, unite all of us watching.
We were unanimous in prayer and hoped that “Baby Jessica” would
be rescued and well! When she was, we all cried with grateful relief!
Then, everything changed.
We went back to our “normal” daily lives! Sadly and predictably, our
vitriolic attitude regarding politics, religion and everything else reared
its ugly head again.
Family arguments became another regular dinner event. We sadly
returned to what is all too familiar to us.
Why should it take a tragedy for us to pause and look at each other
with a deep sense of connection? By reflecting on that event, perhaps
our attitudes can change. I hope we do.
We are all in this together and it’s about time we all recognize that
We Are One! Don’t you think?
Dan Hyde is a passionate and effective advocate for the senior
community. He can be reached at: dhyde9@cox.net.
37
Pets
By: Stu Cooper / Happy Adventures
If and when I write my autobiography, the title
will be “My Older Brother was a Dog.” Not
that anybody will read it, but I hope my children
might take a look at it.
And the first story I will tell them about is my older brother, a “Heinz
57” variety of a dog named Woody. He was part of my family before I
was. He was already two years old when I came
into the world and for the
first fourteen years
of my life he was a
very important part
of my life.
From my earliest
memories, it was my responsibility
to care for him, to play with him, to
feed him
and to treat him as part of the family. Back in the 50s there was no
leash laws, so every morning by 7:00 am Woody would wake me up to
let him out.
I would wait the ten or fifteen minutes until he came back. Then I
poured his morning meal in his bowl and either climb back into bed
or get ready for school.
In the afternoon, I would take him for his walk to the local green
By: Crystal Merryman-Sarbacker / Out & About
like to talk to my dog. No, I don’t mean that
I Watson, my three-year-old Bichon rescue
dog, and I sit around
discussing melting polar
ice caps or Amanda Gorman’s newest poem.
That would be ridiculous! But I must admit
Watson is a pretty good listener, especially when
we are talking about something of a mutual
concern - like what does Watson want for dinner,
or does Watson want to visit a new dog park?
And there’s another hot topic that attracts a
lot of attention in our house. It’s who knocked
over the wastebasket?
Admittedly, this is not a subject Watson enjoys
because he can’t fool me. I immediately know
who did it. But he certainly pays attention when
he suspects there might be some disciplining
coming, or his precious treats may be put up
on a shelf.
Watson is a bichon frise. They are known to be very intelligent dogs
with an interesting history that includes everything from pleasing
European royalty to amusing circus crowds. I have always been drawn
to this breed because they are free thinkers.
38
My Pal Watson
March 2021
area, unleash
him, and let him
run around for
a few minutes. I
would play fetch
with him and
take a long walk
with him. He was
my best friend.
After Woody, we
had many dogs
Stu & Casey
culminating
with our most recent “Minnie Pincher” Casey. She was our rescue.
She had a tough first five years of life in a puppy mill just being a
momma and making babies.
By the time she got to us she was emotionally damaged. She
never lived inside, never walked on floors, never played on grass. It was
a tough adjustment for her.
Over time, she became a loving, though independent sole. She
became a congenital lap dog. We had her for ten years. Taking her in
as a rescue, in my mind, was a good deed and we gave Casey a great life.
For the Cooper family, dogs have been an important part of our
family life and brought joy and companionship to us, our children
and grandchildren.
Many years ago I sent my first bichon to a doggy camp,
so it could learn some manners. But after only a few days, I
received a call from the trainer who told me I needed to pick up my dog.
All the other dogs were at attention, but my
dog was running in circles trying to create
a rebellion. I acted embarrassed at my dog’s
conduct, but secretly I couldn’t have been more
proud that he could think for himself.
Our dog predictably starts every day with a
snappy walk around our neighborhood followed
by breakfast and an assortment of daytime
activities, which usually include a few short
errands by car and daily visits to see the wild
rabbits that are around our house.
Watson doesn’t try to catch them. It keeps
him amused until precisely 3 pm when Watson’s
inner clock fires up and dictates it’s time to go to
our dog park.
Watson’s canine friends are already there
munching on treats, and new dogs are greeted
by sniffing rituals that would make anybody blush.
Next month we’ll help Watson learn how to travel.
Crystal Merryman-Sarbacker is a travel agent and the owner of
Vegas Vacationers Inc. She can be reached at:
Merryman2@aol.com
39
Our Globetrotting Favorite Pet
By: Kathy Manney / Around Our World
My children and I were leaving the
familiar for the unknown. We set out
for Taiwan in 1972, to
join my husband John who had already been
stationed there with the United States Air Force
19-months before our arrival. Fear of the
unknown mixed with the thrill of adventure.
Traveling from Taipei to Taichung, outside
the bus window, besides miles of rice paddies,
I saw for the first time high field of sugar cane
glistening in the afternoon glare, fields that
went on and on, weaving gently back and
forth.
There were villages with small farmhouses
with chickens running freely, and in the heart
of the village, two-story shops where families
lived above their businesses, crowded next
to one another and laundry hanging on bamboo poles strung from
one upper window ledge to another. Narrow alleys ran off the main
thoroughfare.
We soon settled into life in Taichung, which included a puppy for the
children. Our son David found her. In the beginning, John wasn’t too
thrilled.
Gradually, Yuki won all our hearts. If you can call a dog’s personality
“refined” and “ladylike,” Yuki fit the description.
When military orders came for a unit move from Taiwan to the
Philippines, there was no question about
what to do about Yuki. She was going with us.
Removing a dog from Taiwan required
paperwork that included an exit visa and
we then arranged for her commercial air
transportation to Manila. Once we arrived in
the Philippines, no Yuki.
Yuki was missing for two long weeks.
When it was time to come “home,” once
again, there was no hesitation regarding
Yuki, She was coming too.
We dispatched Yuki commercial air to my
parents in Portland, Oregon. In route, Yuki
had a stopover that included an exercise walk
in Honolulu. Yuki then traveled with us to
live in Texas before moving to Nevada.
Without doubt, Yuki our heart stealing, globetrotting dog, forever
remains our family’s all-time favorite pet.
Kathy Manney enjoys visiting interesting places and being an
Adventure Diva. Her “Must See” travel journeys continue - always
with enthusiasm.
40
Secrets of the Amazon
By: Burt & Dianne Davis / Our Vacation
This month the publisher asked columnists
to feature pets. This is as close as we were
able to accommodate the request.
Traipsing through the dense jungle
in the Amazon in December 2018, we
learned about the benefits, challenges, and
surprises of life in this equatorial South
American region. We took several tours into
the tropical jungle during our Viking Cruise
“From the Caribbean to the Amazon.”
One, at night, was a high point of our
adventures.
At Manaus, the largest city on the
Amazon, we opted for the “Jungle Survival
Trek.” A riverboat cruise along the Rio
Negro took us to Guedes Lake for our pretrek
briefing.
We saw termite mounds close to the ground and higher up in trees or
larger bushes. We learned of their medicinal value.
In the dense woods, our guide showed us nutrient-rich fruits and
nuts, plants whose leaves and roots have medicinal properties and
which vegetation to avoid. Our guide and his helpers demonstrated
March 2021
survival skills and showed how to build a shelter using forest materials.
We learned to make a fire, even during wet conditions, and how to
trap animals with materials found in the Amazon jungle.
Lastly we left after dark to search for Caimans, nocturnal reptiles,
in the dense jungle backwaters of the Black
River. Small riverboats transported us to
the docking area where we boarded ten
passenger motorized canoes.
As we journeyed through the dark waters,
our guide silently moved his flashlight
along the water in hopes of spotting these
creatures which are close relatives of the
crocodile. They can weigh up to 2,400
pounds and grow to be 15 feet.
There was just darkness with a little
light from the moon and stars. Luckily, the
caimans we spotted were young and small,
giving us the experience - but with a whole
lot less danger.
We came, we listened, we ventured, we saw, we touched, We also
recommend these excursions without reservation for the adventurous
folks who want to experience the Amazon region.
Thanks to Dianne and Burt Davis who continue to travel the world
and share their adventures with our readers.
41
March 13, 1906
By: John Beilun / Time Traveler
Susan was born in 1820 in Adams,
Massachusetts. Her father, Daniel, was a
strict Quaker and a stern abolitionist who forbade
his children to play with toys or enjoy amusements. Deprived of such
diversions, this may be why Susan learned to read and write before she
was four.
Two years later her father sent her to school. However, when her
teacher refused to teach the six-year old long division simply because
of her gender, Daniel removed Susan from class and home-schooled
his daughter himself.
The Panic of 1837 ruined the family and Susan became a teacher
to help put food on the table. At 29 she quit in protest of the 4-1 wage
disparity between her male colleagues and their female counterparts. At
the same time Susan renounced Quakerism because of the hypocrisies
she had witnessed and eventually gave up on organized religion
altogether.
As a deeply moral person, she became evermore disturbed by the
inequities and problems of the pre-Civil War era. Initially intimidated
by fear of public speaking, Susan soon became an orator famous for
her anti-slavery, temperance and women’s rights positions.
At the National Women’s Rights Convention in 1859, she eloquently
asked: “Where, under our Declaration of Independence does the
Saxon man get his power to deprive all women and Negroes of
their inalienable rights?”
After the war, more determined
than ever, Susan began publishing
The Revolution, the most popular
women’s rights journal of its day.
Its motto was: “The true republic
- men, their rights and nothing
more; women, their rights and
nothing less.”
Susan also began traveling
across the country, giving more
than a hundred speeches each year.
Many were not well received.
And her aggressive and compassionate adamancy about the need for
reform often got Susan into trouble. Ruffians often attempted to scare
her off by hanging, burning, drawing and quartering her effigy.
Even our government thought ill of her. In one infamous incident
in 1872, the New York authorities actually arrested Susan for trying to
vote.
During the next 28 years, Susan’s combativeness continued to make
new enemies and alienate former friends - the most famous of which
was probably Frederick Douglass, with whom she had campaigned
shoulder-to-shoulder on behalf of both Blacks and women; only to see
Negro men winning suffrage. But not women.
Weary of her battles and weakened by age, Susan B. Anthony retired
in 1900. She quietly died in her home on March 13, 1906. Sadly,
American women would not receive the right to vote for another 14
years.
Most of us who have ever heard of Susan think of her merely as
a suffragette. However, she was so much more: an abolitionist, an
educational reformer, a labor activist, a temperance worker and finally,
a women’s rights advocate.
Shot Again
Vegas Voice travel editor Stu Cooper receives his 2 nd and final
COVID-19 vaccination. Did you get yours? The Vegas Voice urges
all readers (despite the delays and red tape) to take the time to make a
reservation date, time & place and get their shot(s) as well.
42
March 2021
OK,
OK!
So maybe it’s NOT the WORLD CUP!
But in the publishing world
NAMPA
AWARDS
2020
© Cosmin Iftode
NAMPA AWARDS are BIG stuff!
Best Banner
First: The Vegas Voice
One of the best banners in the business.
The use of familiar Vegas hotel graphics
blended with the boldness/juxtaposition of
black, red and white make this banner pop.
Front Cover (Illustration)
Second: The Vegas Voice
(8//19 Woodstock)
It only takes a glance to understand the
story. The white bird standing on a guitar
against a backdround of psychsdelic colors
screams Woodstock to anyone from the
Boomer generation.
Self-Promotion - In house
Second: The Vegas Voice
(5/20 Edition, Media Ad)
Nice use of photos to personalize the
talent. The red headline draws your attention
immediately to the Vegas Voice and is reinforced
below in the same bold red. Overall
very solid layout.
Special Section
Second: The Vegas Voice
(6/20 Edition)
An investigative piece that takes on the tough
topic of an estate takeover and probate court is
definitely a story that is useful to this audience.
Editorial Opinion
Third: The Vegas Voice
(12/19 Edition)
Dan Roberts gets credit for pulling no
punches, striking hard with an editorial
condemning the performance of a Family
Court judge caught up in a scandal involving
guardianship cases, and the local newspaper’s
recommendations.
Self-Promotion - Awards
Third: The Vegas Voice
(12/17 Edition Winner, 11 Awards)
Oversized Number 11 forces the reader to
explore more of the page. Several covers add
a bit of pop to the text which clearly convey
the achievement and quality of the product.
43
Test Your Knowledge
The Vegas Voice introduces its new Trivial game to tests your
knowledge. For our initial column, it’s all about the Movies.
Enjoy!
1. What 1954 film featured William Holden, Micky Rooney and
Grace Kelly.?
2. What 1963 film featured Janet Leigh, Dick Van Dyke, Ann-
Margaret, and Bobby Rydell?
3. What 1954 film featured Harry Belafonte, Dorothy Dandridge,
Pearl Bailey and Diahann Carroll?
4. In 1944 Otto Preminger directed what film starring Dana Andrews,
Gene Tierney, Clifton Webb and Vincent Price?
5. In 1974 Bob Fosse directed a film about the life of Lenny Bruce.
Who played Bruce?
6. In 1970 Duston Hoffman, Fay Dunaway and Martin Balsam,
starred in what film?
7. A young Indian actor was “nicknamed” The Elephant boy. What
was his real name?
44
March 2021
8. Richard Burton and Olivia de-Havilland starred in what film?
9. In 1943 a film was produced starring Charles Boyer and Ingrid
Bergman, the name of which has become a common name for what
the character of Boyer did. Can you name that film?
10. Audrey Hepburn starred in what well known film in 1957?
11. In one of the first films made by Katherine Hepburn she played
John Barrymore’s daughter, can you name that film?
12. All of the following stars were featured in what film? Steve Allen,
David Janssen, Stephanie Powers, Joan Collins, Carrol O’Conner, George
Sanders and Keenan Wynn.
13. What was the name of the first film Gary Cooper starred in?
(Interesting fact, Cooper was a cartoonist prior to becoming an actor).
14. What real life gangster film did Robert Conrad star in?
Answers:
1.Bridge at Toko-Ri 2. Bye Bye Birdie 3. Carmen Jones. 4. Laura
5. Duston Hoffman 6. Little Big Man. 7. Sabu Dastagri 8. My Cousin
Rachel. 9. Gaslight. 10. Funny Face. 11. A Bill of Divorcement.
12. Warning Shot 13. The Winning of Barbara Worth. 14.Young
Dillinger.
Vicki & the Vet... and the Vet
By: Vicki Wentz / Vicki’s Voice
Two weeks ago, my Cairn Terrier, Rosie, ate
half a bottle of Tums. I wasn’t particularly
concerned, but my friend urged me to call the vet
anyway.
Turned out Rosie could
have had calcium toxicity,
and this was mildly
alarming...to the doc,
anyway.
“I think you’d better come
in right away and we’ll make
her throw up,” said the
veterinarian. “Or you can
try to do it yourself. Just give
her a couple of tablespoons
of hydrogen peroxide, and
then…”
“Forget it, I have a white
rug and a son who suffers
from sympathetic vomiting.”
“Well, then you need to
bring her in. We’ll keep her until she throws up, and you can pick her
up this afternoon…and that’ll be $392.00.”
The next day, Lady Di, our smaller dog, started scooting on her
backside all over the house. After several days of lecturing her on this
unladylike behavior, I told another friend, who advised again calling
the vet.
“Yes, Ms. Wentz, Di is apparently one of those dogs who will need
occasional expression of the anal sacs. It’s no big deal, just every couple
of weeks and we’ll do it for you. Or you could try to do it yourself, just
take two fingers…”
“No, thanks, I’m already getting woozy.” “Fine, we’ll be happy to do
it for you…for only $55.00… every time.”
A few days later, my son was wrestling with Rosie, and I noticed lots
of small red spots on her stomach. My son, being male, said he’d seen
them but figured they were supposed to be there. I looked at him.
“Rob, did Rosie have red spots on her stomach last week?” “No.”
“Rob, have you EVER seen Rosie with red spots all over her stomach?”
“No.”
“So, my sweet son, how do you figure they’re supposed to be
there?!”
He shrugged, having lost all interest in the conversation much earlier.
Back we go to the vet, to find out that Rosie had a severe staph infection
and must be given three pills twice a day for two weeks. $803.00!
On Tuesday evening, Di drank half a glass of white wine, which had
been left on the coffee table for three-and-a-half seconds. (Yes, I know.
I’ve suggested meetings, but she has to admit she has a problem…)
Since it hadn’t been my wine, I wasn’t too concerned – she’d have a
doozy of a hangover the next morning, but hey, we make choices - but
again, my friend said to call the vet. (I really need to get new friends.)
Rosie & Lady Di
I made the call just as Di upchucked every single thing she’d ever
eaten in her life, and the vet said to watch her that night and bring her
in to be checked in the morning – for $230.00.
Then, last night, Rosie began barking frantically at something out in
the woods. A neighbor and I went to investigate and found that she had
cornered a wounded possum.
I knew she hadn’t
wounded the possum,
because Rosie’s nature is
simply to bark other animals
(and people) into a seizure.
This is her way of inviting
them to play, and she was
totally perplexed by this
animal’s lack of interest.
When we finally hauled
her away from the possum,
I called the vet who is now
on speed-dial. He said not to
worry, Rosie was up to date
with her rabies vaccination.
I was thrilled.
“But to be safe, bring her
in for a booster tomorrow.” I’d been so close.
As we were checking out the next day, the increasingly snide young
woman at the front desk said sweetly, “That’ll be $85.00. And should we
just go ahead and make another appointment for later this week, Ms.
Wentz, just to be sure you have a spot?”
Yeah, she’s a riot. I’m getting her a puppy for Easter.
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.
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.
45
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March 2021
47
Speaking to and for Las Vegas
Valley Seniors since 2003
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