Southern Nevada Water Authority

Dig In • Cash In• Save Water

SNWA Water Smart Landscapes Rebate Program

Since 2000, the Southern Nevada Water Authority’s (SNWA) Water Smart Landscapes Rebate program (WSL) has been at the forefront of the region’s efforts to conserve water amid ongoing drought on the Colorado River Basin.  From its inception, WSL has helped the community save more than 108 billion gallons of water—enough to fill more than 164,000 Olympic-size swimming pools. The amount of turf converted could cover 3,205 football fields, and would be enough to wrap an 18-inch roll of sod around 94 percent of the earth’s circumference.

In case you’re unfamiliar with WSL, here’s how it works: For each square foot of water-thirsty turf you convert to water-efficient, desert-adapted landscaping, the SNWA will rebate $2 up to the first 5,000 square feet, and $1 per square foot of grass removed beyond the first 5,000 square feet. In addition to the financial incentives for property owners, the SNWA projects a savings of 55,000 gallons of water per year for the average 1,000 square-foot WSL conversion. You also can realize further savings through reduced repair costs for water damage related to sprinklers, as well as lower landscape maintenance fees and a decreased risk of water waste fees.

The process is simple, and follows three easy steps: check in, dig in, and cash in.

Check In

Begin your landscape transformation by applying at snwa.com, or calling (702) 258-SAVE (7283) for a printed application. After completing the application, SNWA Conservation staff will review your lawn, measure the conversion areas, calculate your rebate, and answer your questions. A pre-conversion site visit is required before removing your lawn; starting the process without the site visit will make your conversion ineligible.

Upon enrollment, you will receive the “Simply Beautiful” packet, a step-by-step guide to landscape planning, installation and maintenance. The SNWA also offers a variety of online tools and resources to help you plan, install, and maintain your new landscape.

Dig In

From here, you can dig in and do the work yourself, or if you choose instead to hire a professional, you can review a list of Water Smart Contractors at snwa.com. Water Smart Contractors are well-trained in the WSL program, and they can help you get your landscape conversion completed.

If you elect to complete the work yourself, take advantage of free sample landscape designs at snwa.com. The SNWA website also features a plant search tool, presented in conjunction with the Springs Preserve, which you can use to search for plants by type, such as trees, cactus, or groundcover; characteristics including height, water requirements, and flower colors; and by common or botanical name.

Cash In

Once your conversion is done and an SNWA staff member has signed-off on it, you’ll begin to reap water-savings benefits, in addition to pocketing your rebate. Every square foot of grass replaced with water-smart trees, shrubs and flowers saves an average of 55 gallons of water per year. For WSL program conditions, FAQs, sample landscape designs and other resources, visit snwa.com.

Senior Care Plus

Senior Care Plus

 Southern Nevada’s New Medicare Advantage Plan

Senior Care Plus, the Medicare Advantage plan from Hometown Health, is amid its first open enrollment period since launching in Clark and Nye counties earlier this year. Doug Geinzer, CEO of Las Vegas HEALS, talks with CJ Bawden of Senior Care Plus for more on the plan, its care model, and what seniors can expect from southern Nevada’s Medicare landscape.

Doug Geinzer: CJ, this is the first open enrollment period for Senior Care Plus in southern Nevada, what can Medicare eligible residents expect from the plan?

CJ Bawden: With Senior Care Plus, Hometown Health is offering seniors in southern Nevada a 4.5-star Medicare Advantage plan, which is impressive since the highest rating a plan can achieve is five. New Senior Care Plus members can expect competitive benefit options, exceptional customer service, and experienced care management. Members will enjoy a variety of PPO health insurance plans with access to a wide range of health care providers, thanks to our partnership with P3 Nevada. Our entrance into the market is more than just another insurance offering, we’re expanding the very limited selection of Medicare Advantage plans, allowing seniors to have yet another choice when making important healthcare decisions.

Geinzer: Tell us more about your partnership with P3 Health Partners.

Bawden: As our provider network, P3 Nevada and Senior Care Plus will work together and focus on the provider and patient experience, increasing positive healthcare outcomes by delivering high-value care and benefits. P3’s community of experienced providers delivers excellent patient care at their physician-led clinics where they specialize in helping southern Nevada’s seniors remain healthy and active, which is the hallmark of Senior Care Plus and Hometown Health vision.

Geinzer: How about access to care? Will members have long waiting periods before they can see a doctor?

Bawden: The short answer is no. P3 currently has five clinics, with four more opening later this fall, all located conveniently around the valley and in Pahrump. Our members can see a physician when needed and with convenience. 

Not only will they have timely medical visits, our members will be supported before, during, and after doctor visits with a comprehensive team of care managers, dietitians, behavioral health specialists, and much more. Both Senior Care Plus and P3 Nevada support a 360-degree care model.

Geinzer: You mentioned before about a lack of health insurance choices. Tell us more about challenges that you see regarding Medicare in our market?

Bawden: I don’t like to look at it as “challenges,” but more as an opportunity. Yes, the market has experienced some disruption, with companies pulling their Medicare plans and leaving residents with limited choices. Fortunately, this provides us an opportunity to offer a highly-rated Medicare Advantage plan, backed by a stellar provider network, all supported by the oldest nonprofit health insurance company in Nevada.

Geinzer: Where can seniors find more information on Senior Care Plus?

Bawden: Interested seniors can find out more about Senior Care Plus by visiting our website, www.seniorcareplus.com/southernnevada, or call us at 702-914-0863. We understand that choosing the right Medicare Advantage plan can be confusing and complicated, potential members are welcome to stop by our office at 8930 W. Sunset Rd., #200 Las Vegas, NV 89148. One of our customer service representatives will guide the potential member through the process, step-by-step.

CJ Bawden is Sales and Marketing Manager for Senior Care Plus, a Medicare Advantage Plan from Hometown Health. Doug Geinzer is CEO of Las Vegas HEALS, a nonprofit membership-based healthcare association.

Normal Dog Aging or Doggy Dementia? By Ashlee Verba

Normal Aging or Doggy Dementia? 

By Ashlee Verba 

As dogs age, owners will inevitably see some changes; they may walk a
bit slower or sleep a bit longer, but they’ll still exhibit signs of
excitement, recognition and happiness. 
But certain behaviors–like zoning out, pacing, or losing their house
training–could be more than just aging. It could be Canine Cognitive Disorder
(CCD), also known as doggy dementia. Resulting from physical brain changes in
aging pets, CCD is a neurological condition
with behavioral symptoms, and it’s fairly common in dogs over age 10. Just like
with humans, there isn’t a cure to ‘dogzheimer’s’ but recognizing it and making
a few small accommodations can make living with it less frustrating for your
pet. Here’s what we know.

Deciphering
Dementia with DISHA

The tricky part is that some symptoms of CCD
overlap with signs of typical aging like arthritis, diabetes or declining
vision and hearing, so veterinarians recommend the acronym DISHA to help
characterize the most distinct changes associated with dementia: Disorientation, (altered) Interactions with family members or other pets, Sleep cycle changes, House soiling, and Activity level changes.

One of the most commonly-noticed
symptoms of CCD is getting disoriented or lost in their normal routine or
environment. Things like staring at walls, confusion on walks, going to the
wrong door to be let out, or spatial awareness issues like getting stuck behind
a piece of furniture, are all signs of disorientation. You may also notice your
senior pet in a different part of the house at bedtime rather than in their dog
bed–another big indicator of confusion seeing as dogs have a natural sense of
time due to their routine.

Their interactions are another
huge insight into your pet’s brain function. If your once sociable, happy pet
is now growling at family members or other animals, it might be CCD. While some
older pets will become cranky if they’re in pain from another ailment, like
arthritis, dogs with dementia will also tend to withdraw from their loved ones
and favorite activities. Things like ignoring the doorbell, treats or prompts
to play may be indicators to call your vet and figure out if what’s ailing your
aging pup is physical or mental.

Changes to their sleep-wake cycle
is one of the more specific symptoms to Canine Cognitive Disorder and shouldn’t
be shrugged off as just getting old.  Dogs that
used to sleep all night may now pace for hours on end and many dogs reverse
their normal schedules, making their daytime activities their nighttime
routine. If your pet is exhibiting this behavior change, consider talking to
your vet about anti-anxiety medication that may be able to prompt sleep at the
right times.

Urinating or defecating in the
house, especially with a house-trained pet, is another sign that something may
be going on upstairs. In some cases, like with diabetes, bladder infections or
kidney problems, it is a bowel issue and your pet physically can’t hold it. In
cases of doggy dementia though, your pet might be staring out the back door and
start to relieve himself; if the aforementioned issues have been ruled out,
then it’s safe to deduce that they no longer recognize and understand that they
should be going outside.

All aging dogs will experience
decreased energy and activity; they may be slow to greet you at the door, but
they’re still responding to your coming home. Dogs with cognitive dysfunction,
however, tend to be unresponsive to most stimuli, even things as rousing as the
doorbell ringing. They may also struggle finding their bowls, have trouble
eating or drop their food and not bother or be able to find it. If you feel
confident they aren’t having issues with their vision, it could be dogzheimer’s.
Additionally, repetitive activities like head bobbing, leg shaking, constant
nuisance barking, or pacing in circles are also strong indicators of cognitive
issues and not signs of simply getting old.

Other symptoms not included in
the DISHA acronym include changes in appetite, increased anxiety, and memory or
learning problems like not responding to their names, forgetting training cues
or not responding to new training.

What Owners Can Do

Unfortunately, there isn’t a cure
for doggy dementia but there are ways for owners to slow it down and manage it
for their dog’s comfort, mainly by changing their diet and enriching their
environment at home. Certain foods are formulated with antioxidants and omega-3
fatty acids to strengthen cellular health and slow down cognitive dysfunction;
additionally, using a puzzle feeder at mealtimes is a great way to promote
mental stimulation and keep their minds active. Just like with humans, physical
activity as well as social interaction can help slow down the aging process as
well, making walks and playdates even more important if your pet can manage
them.

Establishing and sticking to a
routine is a great way to limit their confusion, which can be a frustrating
experience for old dogs. Adhering to a set schedule when it comes to feeding,
walking, and bedtime can be very orienting for aging pets. If possible, try to
turn lights on and off around the same time at the start and end of each day to
help regulate their sleep-wake cycle.

Another helpful way to aid in
their canine confusion is to make accommodations at home. The same way you once
puppy-proofed the house, similar precautions should be taken for your aging
dog. Eliminate any gaps behind or underneath furniture to prevent them from
getting stuck, remove obstacles they may trip over or get caught in like cords
or cable wires, and put their food and water bowls in a corner so they can’t
walk through and spill them. It may be helpful to put pee pads in various
places around the house so that if your pet gives you a sign they have to go
you can at least get them somewhere acceptable to lessen your frustration with
accidents.

And of course, regular check-ups
with the vet are a must. There are certain drugs and dietary supplements that
may further aid in slowing down cognitive dysfunction, but they should be
tailored to your dog’s existing diet and medications.

The thing about CCD is that, even
with all the information in the world, you cannot diagnose it yourself. Tests,
scans and/or x-rays should be professionally administered to rule out health
problems like arthritis, brain tumors, diabetes, and liver or kidney disease.
Caring for an aging pet can be challenging, but knowing the signs of doggy
dementia can only help when it comes to loving and caring for your ol’ best
friend.

Recipes From April

Eggs in a Basket with Maple Prosciutto 
6 servings

• 1 bag Simply Potatoes fresh hashbrown potatoes
• 1/2 stick unsalted butter, melted
• Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper
• 6 slices prosciutto, about 2 1/2 oz., chopped
• 2 Tbsp. maple syrup
• 6 eggs
• 3/4 cup shredded provolone

-Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spread hashbrowns in a thin layer on paper towels and dry thoroughly. Add the potatoes to a large bowl, stir in the melted butter and season well with salt and pepper to taste. 

-Spray a 6­cup, jumbo sized muffin tin lightly with nonstick cooking spray. Press the grated potatoes evenly into the cups being sure the potatoes go up the sides and cover the bottom in a thin layer. Bake until the top edges turn light golden brown and the potatoes are cooked through, about 35 to 40 minutes. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, toss together the prosciutto with maple syrup and a few grinds of freshly ground black pepper. Set aside. 

-Remove the potatoes from the oven and gently crack an egg into each cup. Bake until the egg whites set but the yolk remains runny, about 6 to 8 minutes. Remove from the oven and set the oven to broil. Top the eggs with grated cheese and put the maple prosciutto on another sheet tray. Broil both until cheese melts, and meat crisps slightly, about 1 minute. Top the eggs with crispy prosciutto and serve immediately.

Recipe from Sunny Anderson, Foodnetwork.com

AIsraeli Poached Eggs in Spicy Tomato Sauce 
Serves 4

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 4 Anaheim chiles, stemmed, seeded and finely chopped
• 1 small yellow onion, chopped
• 5 cloves garlic, crushed then sliced
• 1 tsp. ground cumin
• 1 Tbsp. paprika
• 1 (28 oz) can whole peeled tomatoes, undrained
• Kosher salt to taste
• 6 eggs
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 Tbsp. chopped flat-leaf parsley
• Warm pitas or crusty bread, for serving

-Heat oil in large skillet over medium­high heat. Add chiles and onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft and golden brown, about 6 minutes. Add garlic, cumin and paprika and cook, stirring frequently, until garlic is soft, about 2 more minutes.

-Put tomatoes and their liquid into a medium bowl and crush with your hands. Add to skillet along with 1/2 cup water, reduce heat to medium and simmer, stirring occasionally, until thickened slightly, about 15 minutes. Season sauce with salt.

-Crack eggs over sauce so that eggs are evenly distributed across sauce’s surface. Cover skillet and cook until yolks are just set, about 5 minutes. Using a spoon, baste the whites of the eggs with tomato mixture, being careful not to disturb the yolk. Sprinkle with feta and parsley and serve with bread for dipping.

Recipe Adapted from Saveur

Fork and Knife Mediterranean Egg Salad Sandwich
Serves 2-­4

• 8 hardboiled eggs
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tsp. yellow mustard
• 1/4 cup thinly chopped green onion
• 1/4 tsp. smoky paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1-2 Tbsp. olive oil
• Garlic salt
• Trader Joe’s Red Pepper/Eggplant Garlic Spread
• Leaf lettuce
• Ciabatta bread

-Combine eggs, mayo, mustard, onion and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste and refrigerate for at least one hour.

-Slice bread into thick slices. Brush with olive oil, sprinkle with small amount of garlic salt and grill until warm through. Cool bread slightly and then coat with a generous amount of red pepper/eggplant spread. -Top pepper mixture with a few slices of leaf lettuce. Scoop egg salad mixture over the lettuce. Garnish with additional paprika if desired

Don’t Let Your Children Fall Behind: Are you aware of Brain Exercise?

The Sapience is the first brain development and learning center of its kind, starting an education revolution right here in Nevada. Their mission is to provide every child with the opportunity to become a Champion. The Sapience has established unique brain development curriculums that are matchless in preparing children for personal and work life success. We asked the founders about their program and how it can get our children on the right path for a triumphant future.

What was the inspiration for opening the Sapience?

We, as parents, had two very specific experiences that left us wanting more for our children.

• Arushi, our founder’s daughter, watched a televised mental math competition on T.V. where the children participating were displaying the ability to solve long equations all in their head as if they were human calculators! Arushi, a student at Palo Verde Highschool, explained to her mother that she felt that the children that participated in such competitions must be born with natural calculation abilities. Arushis mother and Sapeince founder, Puja Chamaria knew that brain exercise was the key for these children as it is commonly practice in academically high functioning societies. Working with world-class mental math professors Puja developed an unmatched brain exercise curriculum which her daughter has now been going participating in for the last five months. The benefits have exceeded expectations as her daughter has realized improvement in all subjects and is even consistently scoring 95%+ in all her subjects.
• Attempting to enroll my 9-year-old for tutoring was a painful process; most tutoring centers don’t provide help on all subjects, so in order to get him the help he needed, I had to travel throughout the city to multiple centers throughout the day. There was no transparency to my sons progress at centers like Kumon; They have no tools for parents measure if their tutoring program was worth investing our time and money.

What is brain exercise and why is it important?

Brain exercise happens by intensely stimulating the left and right hemisphere of the brain simultaneously. This is extremely important for children as it significantly improves concentration, memorization and IQ which ultimately helps children become faster and more effective learners, both academically and practically, throughout their lifetime. 

How are you creating the education revolution?

The education revolution is about evolving and supplementing current traditional youth education by ensuring “brain exercise” becomes an everyday part of life for children across America. The top tier of academic success should not simply be reserved for children born with advanced abilities; with the Sapience brain exercise program, every child has the opportunity to be a Champion in life; our mission is to drive awareness and ensure every parent knows how brain exercise can benefit their child.

How does Sapience tutoring vary from other traditional tutoring centers like Kumon?

There are a few key differences that makes Sapience more effective in not only educating children but in also enhancing their learning ability

• One is the quality of our certified tutors and their increased ability to keep kids engaged. Other programs, like Kumon, are seemingly designed to disengage students. They make children repeat a lot of the information they already know which destroys the childrens interest in academics, and this is where you officially lose the childs attention which inhibits their learning potential.
• We create an on-purpose non-distracted environment with 1 to 1 tutoring for all children. Most tutoring centers have 1 tutor for multiple children which can be distracting for both the tutors & students
• We also offer extreme transparency like no other center, this is supported by our open door tutor/parent policy and our online web application.
• Sapience is driving for the opportunity of IQ equality for Children throughout America. Sapience works with reputable businesses/individuals are dedicated to providing free memberships to less fortunate children; in addition, they offer the program as a reward for academic excellence
• Finally, we are the only center that focuses on genuine ability improvement with our brain exercise courses. This will be the key that drives success in all other academic areas. Unlike most other tutoring companies that only offer support for one or two subjects, Sapience is devoted to brain exercise, tutoring, homework help, and other STEM and technology programs for all subjects and all grades.

How can parents get their children involved?

Enroll for a free brain exercise class today! In this class you and your child will learn all about the course structure, the benefits, and go through some exercises with our coaches & tutors. For more information, visit

www.thesapience.com/sapience.

89135 Magazine | November-December 2015

Your favorite Zip Code Magazines are now available online! Click here to read the issue now.