New Thinking About Thinking

POWER OF LOVE GALAONE TIME. ONE NIGHT. ONE CAUSE.WITH SIEGFRIED AND ROY

PLAYBOOK FOR CARE Famous Razorback writes of wife’s illness

FISH/OMEGA 3show promise for prevention

A PUBLICATION OF KEEP MEMORY ALIVE IN SUPPORT OF THE LOU RUVO BRAIN INSTITUTE

Volume 1 2009www.keepmemoryalive.org

NEW THINKINGABOUT

THINKING

MESSAGE: From the Chairman

If you buIld It, they will come…There’s a new field of dreams in Las Vegas, except this one is designed by frank gehry instead of Kevin costner. The Lou Ruvo Brain Institute located on the 61-acre parcel of land known as union Park in downtown Las Vegas, is now rising out of the desert. The institute aims to be a medical and scientific center of excellence for treating neurodegenerative brain diseases. The architectural blueprint that began as a dream will soon become a reality.I never doubted that we could build a world-class brain institute in Las Vegas—this is the city of the possible. The pioneering spirit that exists in this spectacular southwest community takes the possible and makes it extraordinary.

If you build it, they will come … and they are coming. The researchers who have signed on to this project are national and international leaders in their fields, including our President and cEO Zaven Khachaturian, Ph.d. In the 1970s, he assumed a key role with the National Institutes of health (NIh) as the director of the Office of Alzheimer’s Research. he was responsible for creating new programs of scientific study concerning brain aging and Alzheimer’s disease, which prior to that time was not a priority for the NIh. for nearly 20 years, dr. Khachaturian was a leader in developing the current infrastructure for Alzheimer’s research, and helped develop the scientific careers of many who have become prominent leaders in the fields of brain aging and Alzheimer’s research. Now, he is introducing these doctors and researchers to Las Vegas.

The members of LRBI’s scientific Advisory Board include Nobel Laureate Paul greengard, Ph.d.; prominent neurologists Ron Petersen, M.d., Ph.d.; John Trojanowski, M.d., Ph.d.; Virginia Lee, Ph.d.; Ann Young, M.d., Ph.d.; and the researcher who discovered the gene that causes huntington’s disease, Nancy Wexler, Ph.d.

If you build it, they will come…The think-tank sessions that have been conducted by the LRBI are attracting researchers in the fields of

neurodegenerative brain diseases from throughout the world. In 2007, the institute hosted the second meeting of the us-Eu Task force on Multi-domain Interventions for Prevention of dementia. This group is planning a multisite, multinational clinical trial on prevention involving nearly 5,000 volunteers from Europe and the u.s.

if you believe the impossible, the incredible can come true.

The Leon Thal symposium on the Prevention of dementia examined ways to change the current standard of therapy development for dementia. The participants included physicians and scientists from as far as quebec, canada, (serge gauthier, M.d., and Judes Poirier, Ph.d.) and france (Bruno Vellas, M.d., and Jacques Touchon, M.d.). They also came from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Richard Wurtman, M.d.), harvard Medical school (Bradley hyman, M.d., Ph.d.) and Johns hopkins university (Marilyn Albert, Ph.d.). These distinguished doctors, among others, converged in Las Vegas because, like me, they believe these important collaborations will result in a cure for dementia and other memory disorders.

If you build it, they will come … we’re not only keeping memories; we’re making them. In the spirit of “New Thinking About Thinking,” I will remember this … in this field of dreams, “if you believe the impossible, the incredible can come true.”

Thank you for your support,

Larry Ruvo, founder

VOLUME 1 2009 : KEEP MEMORY ALIVE 0302 nEw tHInKInG ABOUt tHInKInG www.KEEPMEMORYALIVE.org

COntEntS

21 20

fEATuREs

MAgIcIANs Of ThE cENTuRY 09 seigfried and Roy One Night Only

PLAYBOOK fOR cARE 10 famous Razorback Writes of Wife’s Illness

BuRYINg ThE cAREgIVER BEfORE ThE PATIENT 13 An Intimate Look at the Ruvo family

fROM WAshINgTON 20 senate Majority Leader harry Reid

REsEARchERs hONOREd 25 first Three Recipients of “Tomorrow’s Leaders in Alzheimer’s disease Research” designation

dEPAR TMENTs

MEssAgEs 02 from the chairman 04 from the President

MEET ThE dOcTORs 08 dr. charles Bernick, M.d. 18 dr. Nancy Wexler, Ph.d.

TIPs 12 Where did I Put My Keys? 19 fishy About Reduced dementia Risk

hOW cAN YOu hELP 15 The gift of Memory 24 hope Takes shape

EVENTs 06 Power of Love gala 16 Rodeo at shakespeare Ranch 21 New Thinking About Thinking celebration


09

13

nEw tHInKInG ABOUt tHInKInG KEEP MEMORY ALIVE Semi-Annual Publication 888 Bonneville Ave. winter 2009, Volume 1 Las Vegas, nV 89106

UPDAtE: From the President

The symposium focused on changing current models of therapy development for the diseases of dementia. This think-tank-style workshop focused on four independent work groups, comprising many of the world’s leading dementia researchers, who discussed how to accelerate the process of discovery, development and validation of treatments for dementia prevention.

The work groups examined concerns and obstacles that are deterring effective therapies. discussions focused on whether researchers have the correct target, whether current study designs and analytical methods are adequate and/or appropriate for prevention trials, and changes that should be made on public policies that govern drug development and/or patents that would hasten effective drug therapies.

The findings from this think tank drew many interesting conclusions: ■ since it is unknown when and how dementia and Alzheimer’s disease (Ad) actually begin, no validated biomarkers exist to indicate the presence of brain neurodegeneration until symptoms are evident.

■ The need to demonstrate efficacy for therapies targeting the causes of the disease are vital to prevention.

■ These are two primary scientific hurdles to overcome for the successful prevention of dementia. It has been recommended that the National Institutes of health (NIh) grants-review

process be modified to support long-term or high- risk projects to allow scientists to study potential, but symptom-free, dementia subjects. This will allow researchers to better understand the basic biology of Ad, including greater reliability in identifying early symptoms; cognitive measures that are sensitive to change in mild disease; and the effect of changing lifestyles, medications and lifestyle adaptations as management of mild dementia undergoes further development.

■ Because of the long-term nature of effective Ad drug trials, and the risk that the patent life of a drug will be exceeded, it is also suggested that current patent protection laws be modified so as not to impede incentives for drug development.

Additional recommendations include the need to increase the efficiency and capacity of integrated clinical trial networks so researchers can share and build upon knowledge. further, poor Medicare and other third-party reimbursement is resulting in poor clinical care efforts. The report generated from the work groups also discusses potential economic incentives to stimulate therapy development such as a commitment from the center for Medicare and Medicaid services (cMs) to make subjects recruited for longitudinal and other Ad research studies eligible for reimbursement. This is only the beginning of an ongoing series of think tanks that intends to aggressively explore and blaze a successful roadmap. The bounteous baby boom generation is aging and new treatments must

ANEWTITlEANdnew discoveries

NEWTHINKINGABOUTTHINKING–the newly entitled publication for the Lou Ruvo Brain Institute intends to shake up common models of scientific research in the hopes of expediting prevention therapies and cures for neurodegenerative brain diseases. This was the focus of the Leon Thal symposium (LTs) for the Prevention of dementia in december 2007.


become available to curtail the impending tsunami of incapacitated dementia and Ad suff erers. There is a need for further examination of our current assumptions and paradigms for therapy development, and this report represents a critical starting point.

In order to further refi ne and expand the proposals presented in this inaugural report, the Lou Ruvo Brain Institute will reconvene the LTs on december 7-9, 2008, in Las Vegas, Nevada, further expanding the recommendations

of the inaugural report. The objective: develop a national roadmap for action.

In collaboration with the Alzheimer’s study group (Asg), specifi c recommendations will be developed for public policy initiatives to prevent or slow the progression of dementia. The National Alzheimer’s strategic Plan intends to present these recommendations to the 111th united states congress and the New Administration in March 2009.

Alzheimer’s Study Group Members:Christine Cassel, M.D. Geriatrician and President, American Board of Internal Medicine; Meryl Comer, President, Geoff rey Beene Foundation Alzheimer's Initiative; Newt Gingrich Founder, Center for Health Transformation (ASG Co-chair); Steven Hyman, M.D. Provost, Harvard University; Bob Kerrey, President, The New School (ASG Co-chair); Henry McCance, Chairman, Greylock Partners; Mark McClellan, M.D., Ph.D. Director, Engelberg Center for Health Care Reform, Brookings Institution; Sandra Day O'Connor Justice, The U.S. Supreme Court (retired); James A. Runde Special Adviser, Morgan Stanley; David Satcher, M.D., Ph.D. Director, Center of Excellence on Health Disparities, Morehouse School of Medicine; Harold Varmus, M.D. Former Director of the National Institutes of Health and co-recipient of the 1989 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine.

“10 million BaBy Boomers will Develop alZheimer‘s Disease”


Saturday, February 28, 2009 • Bellagio • Las Vegas

Supporting the Mission of the Lou Ruvo Brain Institute Supporting the Mission of the Lou Ruvo Brain Institute Supporting the Mission of the Lou Ruvo Brain Institute Presents Presents

SIEGFRIED & ROY ONE TIME. ONE NIGHT. ONE CAUSE.

TM

Savor delights from celebrity chefs WOLFGANG PUCK, TODD ENGLISH, JEAN-PHILIPPE MAURY, andMARTIN HEIERLING that are sure to scintillate the taste buds. Renowned champagne, wines & spirits will awaken the senses.

Mingle with celebrity guests. Take part in an exclusive auction featuring sparkling jewels, swank excursions and many more surprises only found at the POWER OF LOVE.

All proceeds will go to the Lou Ruvo Brain Institute benefi ting Alzheimer, Huntington, Parkinson, ALS & Memory Disorders.

For more information, call 702.263.9797 • www.keepmemoryalive.org • Seating is limited.

EVEntS


WOLFGANG PUCK:Wolfgang Puck represents the ultimate in the culinary arts and restaurant hospitality. he has changed the way Americans cook and eat by mixing formal french techniques amid Asian and california infl uenced aesthetics with the highest quality ingredients. he has also changed the face of dining in cities throughout the nation, fi rst in Los Angeles and more recently in Las Vegas, where he was the fi rst star chef to create a contemporary fi ne dining restaurant, thereby leading the way for other celebrated chefs and the city’s metamorphosis into a food haven. he is actively involved in many philanthropic endeavors and charitable organizations, including his own Puck-Lazaroff charitable foundation. In addition to the many humanitarian awards, including humanitarian of the Year from The James Beard foundation, Wolfgang was proud to receive an honorary degree of doctor of culinary Arts from Johnson & Wales university, Providence, RI in 1998.

DAVID ROBINS:since the inception of Keep Memory Alive’s annual fundraising dinner, david Robins has been the genius coordinating all of our chefs; he regularly facilitates incredible service for our guests, creates unbelievable menus, and provides some of the most sumptuous food you’ve ever had the pleasure to enjoy. As corporate chef and Managing Partner for the Wolfgang Puck fine dining group, david Robins carries Wolfgang Puck’s philosophy of

using only the highest quality, fresh ingredients to produce innovative menus that both continually raise the culinary bar and meet the expectations of diners daily. In 2003, Robins was recognized as Best chef in Las Vegas at the Las Vegas Life Epicurean Awards, the city’s top culinary honor.

TODD ENGLISH:One of the most decorated, respected, and charismatic chefs in the world, Todd English has enjoyed a staggering amount of accolades during his remarkable career. As chef and owner of Olives, he has drawn national and international applause for his interpretive rustic Mediterranean cuisine. his accomplishments include recognition by several of the food industry’s most prestigious publications, establishing one of the best-known restaurant brands in the nation, and being recognized as one of People Magazine’s "50 Most Beautiful People."

JEAN-PHILIPPE MAURY:At the age of 17, Maury started his training in pastry at L’Ecole hôtelière du Moulin à Vent and later went on to complete his Master’s studies at La chambre de Métiers in Perpignan. In 1998 Maury accepted a position as Executive Pastry chef at the Bellagio hotel and casino. A World Pastry champion, through his artistic genius, chef Jean-Philippe Maury opened his own Jean-Philippe Patisserie at the Bellagio and is displayed daily as Las Vegas' fi rst truly European-style pastry shop. You'll be welcomed into this imaginative display by a breathtaking chocolate fountain - a fi tting entrée to the world of carefully crafted sweet treats.

MARTIN HEIERLING:Martin heierling has amassed an impressive culinary resume on his path to becoming Executive chef at sensi at the Bellagio hotel and casino. featuring contemporary continental cuisine, sensi takes guests on a culinary journey where cuisine from four corners of the world comes together in a contemporary setting. his approach to cooking: ingredient-driven and eschewing overwrought drama for elegant simplicity. Born in heidelberg, germany, and raised as a young adult in Auckland, New Zealand, he knew from a young age that the culinary arts were his calling. In his fi rst position as Executive chef, Martin is thrilled with the path his career has taken and credits blind enthusiasm for his willingness to take the culinary risks that brought him to where he is today.

CULINARY MASTERY AT THE POWER OF LOVE™

S a v o r D e l i g h t s f r o m C e l e b r i t y C h e f s

VOLUME 1 2009 : KEEP MEMORY ALIVE 0706 nEw tHInKInG ABOUt tHInKInG www.KEEPMEMORYALIVE.org VOLUME 1 2009 : KEEP MEMORY ALIVE 07

MEEt tHE DOCtORS

DR. CHARLES BERNICKA native of Los Angeles, dr. charles Bernick graduated summa cum laude from Rice university in houston with a degree in history. he received his Md degree at the university of Texas southwestern, being elected to the medical honor society, alpha omega alpha. dr. Bernick completed a neurology residency at the university of Miami, with additional fellowship training in neurology at the university of Arizona.

dr. Bernick has been involved in the field of Alzheimer’s disease for more than 20 years. Beginning as attending neurologist at the university of california, davis Alzheimer’s disease diagnostic and Treatment center, dr. Bernick moved to Las Vegas in 1994 to join the university of Nevada school of Medicine. Over the subsequent years, he has directed the development of a state-wide network of Alzheimer’s care, including clinics in Las Vegas, Reno and Elko.

Along with co-authoring numerous articles, dr. Bernick has participated in studies leading to the release of virtually every medication now available for Alzheimer’s disease. he has participated in a number of national organizations including the Alzheimer’s Association, where he has served as a grant reviewer, national committee member, and member of the desert southwest chapter’s Medical and scientific committee.

dr. Bernick exudes pride when he speaks of the services that have been developed for individuals in Nevada with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of memory impairment. “I have been very fortunate to have had the support of our state’s division for Aging services and a tremendously talented and dedicated group of coworkers to help implement our various programs.” These programs include the diagnostic clinic, for patient diagnosis and treatment; the caregiver support Project that provides counseling and education to those who care for a loved one with dementia; a clinical research section that is a member of the Alzheimer’s disease cooperative study, a group of 40 top university Alzheimer’s programs involved in testing new medications for Alzheimer’s disease; and Memory Masters, a program for people with mild memory problems or early Alzheimer’s disease.

According to Bernick, despite its size, Nevada now has the resources to deal with Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders that could be found in other states with major university centers. “And we are clearly leading the nation in the system of rural dementia care we have created through telehealth,” states Bernick. “With our move into the LRBI facility, we will be able to add exciting new programming and activities that should serve as a model for the rest of the country.”

“And we are clearly leading the nation in the system of rural dementia

care we have created through telehealth.”


Magicians of the Century

Siegfried & Roy One Night OnlyThis magical performance will take place at the Keep Memory Alive Power of Love™ gala, benefiting the mission of the Lou Ruvo Brain Institute. The legendary duo will take the stage for the first time since October 3, 2003, and deliver a highly-anticipated, encore performance that thousands of fans have been requesting for years. Siegfried & Roy’s return to the stage will be an unforgettable experience, a worldwide phenomenon. They will once again dominate the art of mystery and magic and leave audiences in wonder and amazement for years to come. Their very names conjure images of mystery and magic. They simultaneously changed what the world thought of entertainment in Las Vegas—as well as the very art and majesty of illusion. They performed before presidents and royalty on stages around the world. In Las Vegas, a city that once denied a place for magic, they stood alone at the top for four decades, selling more tickets than anyone who has performed here before or since. Siegfried & Roy left the stage too soon, before we had the chance to say goodbye. On this night, the legendary duo will deliver a much-anticipated, encore magical performance and take their final bows on behalf of Keep Memory Alive. Only those in attendance will be able to say, “I was there.”One Time. One Night. One Cause.

FEAtURE

Keep MeMory Alive presents

power of loveTM Saturday, February 28, 2009


As the celebrated coach and athletic director for the

university of Arkansas Razorbacks, frank Broyles knows

both winning and losing. But nothing could prepare him

for the loss of his wife of 59 years, Barbara, to Alzheimer’s disease.

In the spirit of all great coaches, however, Broyles is now placing

his focus on helping others. during the summer of 2006, his book,

Coach Broyles’ Playbook for Alzheimer’s Caregivers, was distributed

by Wal-Mart to families in his home state aff ected by Alzheimer’s.

The book provides useful information and strategies for any

family caring for a loved one with the disease.

coach Broyles has also partnered with the Alzheimer’s Association

and the Lou Ruvo Brain Institute to advocate for Alzheimer’s

disease research and greater awareness of caregiving issues.

“What is exciting is that, while research progress has been made

for each of the four major diseases, this combination of eff orts

and resources is a winning game plan,” he said of the Lou Ruvo

Brain Institute. “There is an old coaching adage that applies here

– doing the right thing is important, but the team that wins is the

one that gets the right things done. I believe this team will get the

right things done!”

FEAtURE

Legendary CoachCreates Playbook For CareFamous Razorback Writes of Wife’s Illness

The Playbook can be obtained atwww.alzheimersplaybook.com

Creates Playbook For Care

The Playbook can be obtained atwww.alzheimersplaybook.com



KNOW YOUR OPPONENT:Middle Stage ADEveryone’s safety has to be the top concern now. You’ll need to think about safety every time you make a decision. Her memory loss will not get better. It will get worse. the plans that worked in Early Stage AD [Alzheimer’s disease] will stop working. Your loved one will get more confused. this will lead to changes in how she acts that don’t make sense to you. Middle Stage AD may last from two to ten years. Changes in how people act and the need for someone to be with them all the time are part of this stage. the changes in how our loved ones act are the hardest to deal with. the parts of the brain that are being damaged in Middle Stage AD tell us how to do things such as:

◊ Act◊ Walk◊ Sit down and get up◊ Go to the bathroom◊ Find our way around the house◊ Get dressed◊ Deal with noise, lights and crowds

PACINGWalk with her.Hold her hand.Tell her she is safe and loved.Offer her a snack she can carry in her hand as she walks.Keep the walkway clear so she is safe from falling.Try to distract her from her pacing. Ask her to look at a magazine or work a puzzle with you.

In 2007, nearly 10 million family and unpaid caregivers of people with dementia provided 8.4 billion hours of unpaid care, a value of $89 billion.

AN EXCERPT FROM

COACH BROYLES’ PLAYBOOK

FOR ALZHEIMERS CAR

EGIVERS

tIPS

Where Did I Put Those Keys

So what’s the difference between forgetfulness and neurodegeneration?we’ve all been there: You can place the name, but not the face. Or you’re in the parking lot, searching vainly for your car. Most of these instances are plain forgetfulness. But it’s when you forget integral functions like how to make change, use the phone or fi nd your way home that you may be experiencing serious memory problems.

while forgetfulness is a normal part of aging,

here are some things you can do to keep your

memory sharp:

• Learn a new skill.

• don’t drink a lot of alcohol.

• Volunteer in your community.

• spend time with friends and family.

• get lots of rest, exercise and eat well.

• Put your wallet, purse or keys in the same place.

• get help if you feel depressed for weeks at a time.

• use memory tools such as calendars, lists and notes.

What is a serious memory problem?serious memory problems aff ect your ability to carry out

everyday life activities such as driving a car, shopping or

handling money. signs of serious memory problems include:

• Not being able to follow directions.

• Becoming lost in places you know well.

• Asking the same questions over and over.

• getting confused about time, people and places.

• Not taking care of yourself – eating poorly, not

bathing, or being unsafe.

What causes serious memory problems?If you are having any of the problems listed, see your

doctor. sometimes a serious memory problem is caused by

a medical condition, such as:

• depression.

• Thyroid problems.

• Minor head injuries.

• Bad reaction to certain medicines.

• Not eating enough healthy foods, dehydration, or

too few vitamins and minerals in your body.

Aging may be unavoidable, but memory loss isn’t. Make a

concerted eff ort to keep your mind active – and know to

seek help when you see signs of memory problems.


FEAtURE

BURYING THE CAREGIVER BEFORE THE PATIENTAN INTIMATE LOOK AT THE RUVO FAMILY BY LARRY RUVO

When dr. Leon Thal diagnosed my father [Lou Ruvo] with Alzheimer’s disease, one of the fi rst pieces of advice he said to me was, “Larry, take very good care of your mother. We often bury the caregivers before the patient.” Yet even after reading The 36-Hour Day, having listened to dr. Thal’s sage advice and bringing in additional help for my father from time to time, my mother, Angie, continued to want and to act as my father’s main caregiver. Looking back, while I fortunately didn’t “lose the caregiver,” I did realize how emotionally devastating an experience it was for my mother while acting in that role. up to one-third of all caregivers exhibit symptoms of depression and my mother was no diff erent than most in that respect. And her physical health was signifi cantly impacted as well. When my dad would fall to the fl oor early in the morning, as he so often did, my mother would always be there to pick him up. Every day she was faced with watching him slowly fade away from her and the world they had built after more than 50 years together.

As my father’s caregiver, she never once summoned for help, never once said she couldn’t handle it. But soon after months of heavy and improper lifting of my father, she learned she had disintegrated several discs in her back. It wasn’t much longer when we lost my father to the disease. Immediately following his burial, my mother herself returned to the hospital for major back surgery. In the course of what was a very complex and strenuous surgery, she had so many metal pins inserted into her back that even though the surgery improved her condition, she will never be the same again. several surgeries, plates and screws later, she has lived to learn the handicap of chronic pain caused by being a loyal, caring and loving wife.

Educating and empowering the caregivers of Alzheimer’s patients are a critically important service of the Lou Ruvo Brain Institute’s function. Nationwide, we have nearly 10 million caregivers and more than 75,000 reside in Nevada today. And those numbers continue to grow. We need to inform the caregiver that while love, care and sensitivity are essential to a total treatment plan for the affl icted,

Angie and Lou Ruvo



there must also be a plan to ensure caregivers better endure the reality and struggles of the disease.

The Lou Ruvo Brain Institute is not only committed to caring for those afflicted, but to their caregivers as well through the entire “continuum of care” by resourcing caregivers with information, support groups, and personal attention to better face the transformational effects of Alzheimer’s disease.

I wish I had had a better understanding of this quiet tragic side-effect of Alzheimer’s disease as my own family lived the disease, and it is my aspiration that the Lou Ruvo Brain Institute will ensure current and future caregivers will receive the support to care for their own well-being during such a devastating time in their lives.

With Grand-Daughter, Nicole Ruvo

Angie and Lou with family and friends in Lake Tahoe With Son, Larry Ruvo

THe GiFT oF MeMorY

Let the new Year serve as a reminder of what it means to be part of a family.

come together with loved ones to celebrate cherished memories and create

new ones.

Yet, for millions of families, the gift of memory is stripped away. Memories are

lost rather than created.

The Keep Memory Alive organization, through the Lou ruvo Brain institute, is

dedicated to the conquest of Alzheimer’s, Huntington’s, Parkinson’s, ALs and

all forms of memory disorders. our goal is to prevent the disabling symptoms

of chronic brain diseases and to prolong healthy, vital aging in the people at risk.

This year, please give the Gift of Memory by contributing a tax-deductible

donation on behalf of another. Your generosity is integral in the enhanced

treatment of and prevention of these diseases.

A special gift card will be sent announcing that a donation has been made on

their behalf.

we are all in this together. And together we will fi nd a cure.

with much gratitude,

Maureen Peckman

chief operations offi cer, Keep Memory Alive


lRBI.org

August 31, 2008, marked the end of glenbrook, Nevada’s summer retreat, meet in celebration with an intimate gathering of family and friends at The Ruvo family Rodeo at shakespeare Ranch. Three hundred guests lasso’d the night away with barrel races, bull riding and saddle cow riding among other games. scrumptious delectables made available from the fabulous chefs of the Eldorado hotel and casino filled appetites while Lefty Lucy provided the evening’s entertainment for guests to boot, scoot and boogie the evening away! The Rodeo at shakespeare Ranch included a silent auction and raffle drawings to the National finals Rodeo.

Rodeo at ShakeSpeaRe Ranch

EVEntS

Photography by: Sherry McManus, Associates in Photography


Rodeo at ShakeSpeaRe Ranch


in the

Nancy Wexler, Ph.d., is higgins Professor of Neuropsychology in the departments of Neurology and Psychiatry of the college of Physicians and surgeons at columbia university, as well as the President of the hereditary disease foundation. Involved in public policy, individual counseling, genetic research, and federal health administration, she is most widely known for her important scientific contribution on huntington's disease. since 1979, Wexler has led a research study in Venezuela of the world's largest family with huntington's disease, developing a pedigree of more than 18,000 individuals and collecting over 4,000 blood samples that helped lead to the identification of the huntington's disease gene at the tip of human chromosome 4. These same blood samples have assisted in the mapping of other disease genes, including those responsible for familial Alzheimer's disease, kidney cancer, two kinds of neurofibromatosis, Amyotrophic Lateral sclerosis (ALs), dwarfism and others. One result of this work was the development of a presymptomatic test which could tell who is carrying the fatal gene prior to the onset of symptoms.

Wexler received an A.B. from Radcliffe in 1967 and a Ph.d. in clinical psychology from the university of Michigan in 1974. she currently holds or has held numerous public policy positions, including chair of the Joint NIh/dOE Ethical, Legal and social Issues Working group of the National center for human genome Research, chair of the human genome Organization (hugO) and Member of the Institute of Medicine. Wexler has served as a member of the board of directors of the American Association for the Advancement of science and on the Advisory committee on Research on Women's health, NIh. she has received numerous honors and awards, including several honorary doctorates.

dr. Wexler recently received the 2007 Benjamin franklin Medal in Life science. she is a council Member of the Institute of Medicine, National Academy of sciences. she is also a Member of the American Academy of Arts and sciences; a fellow at the Royal college of Physicians; a fellow at the American Association for the Advancement of science, section on Neuroscience; a Member of the European Academy of sciences and Arts; and councilor, society for Neuroscience. she is an honorary fellow of the New York Academy of sciences and a Member of the Institute of Medicine, National Academy of sciences. In 1993, she received the Albert Lasker Public service Award.

The Keep Memory Alive Board of Directors is proud to draw from the invaluable experience and expertise of Dr. Nancy Wexler.


MEEt tHE DOCtORS

FISHY ABOUtReduced DEMEntIA RISKfIsh

—especially those rich in omega-3 (n-3) fatty acids such as salmon, mackerel, herring, sardines and bluefish — may be the latest “brain food.” A trio of new international studies suggest that omega- 3s and

fish consumption protect against cognitive decline, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Because all three studies focused on healthy adults, they hold out hope for lifestyle measures that might slow a looming global crisis as aging populations develop Alzheimer’s and dementia. “These recent reports are novel in that they address the association of n-3 fatty acid intake and cognitive function in non-demented individuals,” wrote healthletter editor Irwin h. Rosenberg, Md, in an editorial accompanying two of the studies in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, “and thus, present a shift in the attention to earlier stages of cognitive decline with the hope of preventing progression to stages of dementia and disability before they become irreversible.”

Why might omega-3s benefit the brain? scientists aren’t sure, but point to the fact that the omega-3 fatty acid dhA makes up 40% of the phospholipid fatty acids in the membranes of the brain. Tufts University: “Health & Nutrition" Letter

tIPS

Fish rich in omega-3’s show promise for prevention, according to this excerpt from Tufts university “Health & Nutrition Letter”

my Take on The newsVitamin B-12 May Help Prevent Memory LossAndrew Weil, M.D., Self Healing Magazine, november 2008 issue

having higher vitamin B-12 levels may protect you from losing brain mass with age. Researchers examined blood levels of B-12 in 107 people aged 61 to 87 who had no memory or thinking problems. Those with the highest levels were six times less likely to exhibit brain atrophy five years later compared with those who had lower levels. Other studies link brain atrophy to increased risks of cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease.

My take: This is useful information, as up to 20 percent of seniors may be deficient in B-12; as we age, our bodies produce less stomach acid, making it harder to absorb the vitamin. I encourage older people to have their B-12 levels checked, and it is probably a good idea for them to supplement with B-12 in a sublingual (under the tongue) form or as a nasal spray. Dietary sources of B-12 include wild Alaskan salmon and other seafood. Neurology, september 9, 2008

MUST READSWhat’s Happening to Grandpa?By Maria shriverIllustrated by sandra speidelWhat’s happening to grandpa? is a story through young Kate, who’s grandfather has been afflicted with Alzheimer’s disease. This tale addresses the many questions a young person may have about their ailing grandparent; what’s happening, how the family will be affected, will they get the disease too? It’s also a tale of a family that bonds together with love and admiration for their elderly, vowing to cherish memories that will live on forever through them.

The Woman Who Walked into the Sea huntington’s and the Making of a genetic diseaseBy Alice Wexlerforeward by Nancy s. WexlerPhebe hedges, the woman who walked into the sea in 1806, explores huntington’s disease and its affect on a family facing this dreaded disorder of movement, mind and mood. Alice Wexler uses this first history of the hereditary neurological disorder in America, to explore the meaning of heredity, disability, stigma and medical knowledge among ordinary people as well as scientist and physicians by exploring three main themes: the lives of a family who “belong to the disease”; the emergence of huntington’s as a clinical entity and the transformation of this disorder into a cautionary tale.



senator reid Comes From washingtonA VISIt FROM SEnAtE MAjORItY LEADER HARRY REID

No stranger to creating policies that make an impact on peoples’ lives, Nevadan and senate Majority Leader harry Reid was quick to point out the life-changing potential of the Lou Ruvo Brain Institute during his visit to the construction site.

“I am so excited for the Lou Ruvo Brain Institute to open in Las Vegas,” said Reid. “The iconic gehry building will house enhanced treatments for those afflicted with neurological disease while enabling talented Nevada researchers to pursue groundbreaking initiatives with many of the top scientists in the field from around the u.s. and the world.”

founding chairman Larry Ruvo and President and cEO

Zaven Khachaturian, Ph.d., conducted the senator’s tour of the facility first-hand, showcasing the Lou Ruvo Brain Institute’s current progress and future steps in the design and build process.

designed by world-renowned architect frank gehry, the Lou Ruvo Brain Institute will be a world-class research center on the forefront of efforts to cure neurodegenerative brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s, huntington’s, Parkinson’s, Amyotrophic Lateral sclerosis and all memory disorders.

Located in the union Park masterplan of historic downtown Las Vegas on the corner of Bonneville and grand central Parkway, the facility is slated for completion in 2009.

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InauguralNEWTHINKING

ABOUTTHINKING CelebrationLRBI launched its new philosophy “New Thinking About Thinking” with its inaugural celebration of six community leaders whose own unique approach for positive change embodies thinking outside the box to achieve results.

honorees Marybel Batjer, Vice President of Public Policy and communications for harrah’s Entertainment; Barbara Buckley, Executive director of clark county Legal services; Karen M. coyne, chief, department of detention and Enforcement for the city of Las Vegas; Jane gale, Philanthropist; Patricia Mulroy, general Manager of the Las Vegas Valley Water district; and Rosemary Vassiliadis, deputy director of clark county department of Aviation, were recognized on October 16, 2008, at the Wynn sunset Terrance during an event sponsored by cartier and Wynn Las Vegas.

A cartier diamond necklace valued at over $25,000, donated by cartier Las Vegas, was raffled to one lucky winner, raising additional funds to benefit LRBI. Also highlighted during the event were three dramatically designed vignettes showcasing some of cartier’s uniquely crafted jewelry designs.

The Honorees:MARYBEL BATjERVice President of Public Policy and Communicationsharrah’s Entertainment, Inc.

As a key corporate officer, Marybel Batjer oversees all internal and external communications functions and counsels its senior executive team on issues pertaining to reputation management, public policy and government relations.

Before joining harrah’s in January 2005, Batjer held senior leadership posts in the executive branches of two state governments, as well as key advisory roles in two u.s. presidential administrations and at the

EVEntS


Pentagon. she is currently a member of the state of Nevada’s colorado River commissions, the National Judicial college’s board of trustees, Nevada P-16 council, Nevada Museum of Art board of trustees, and Nevada security Bank’s board of directors.

BARBARA BUCKLEYExecutive Directorclark county Legal services

Barbara Buckley fi rst became interested in public service and in helping those who could not aff ord legal representation while completing her law degree. Today, as clark county Legal service’s executive director, Buckley’s passion and commitment has revolutionized the level of services and programs off ered to clark county residents.

she created the domestic Violence and children’s Attorneys Project, and encouraged the building of more aff ordable housing by organizing the Aff ordable housing Institute. Buckley also went on to found the southern Nevada homeless coalition. Elected to the Nevada Legislature in 1994, she currently serves as speaker of the Nevada state Assembly – the fi rst woman in Nevada history to hold that position.

KAREN M. COYNEChief, City of Las Vegasdepartment of detention and Enforcement

chief Karen coyne has served the Las Vegas community in a variety of roles during her 16-year dedicated service with the city of Las Vegas department of detention and Enforcement. from the beginning as a corrections offi cer, advancing to a deputy city marshal, to being appointed deputy chief in 2005 with responsibility for the support services division, Karen has served with distinction. Just 10 months later she was appointed chief of the department.

Today, chief coyne manages a budget of $69 million and leads a dedicated work force of 400 sworn and civilian employees who serve our growing community in an extraordinary manner.

jANE GALEPhilanthropist

Jane gale is a lifelong Nevadan who has dedicated her time, talents and resources to endeavors that have succeeded in providing a more vibrant landscape for all

Honorees Jane Gale, Karen Coyne, Barbara Buckley,Rosemary Vassiliadis, Marybel Batjer, Patricia Mulroy


residents. An ardent conservationist, Jane is founding member and key visionary for the Las Vegas springs Preserve, a 180-acre cultural and historic attraction that chronicles Las Vegas’ development while providing a vision for its future.

In addition, her work with the Animal foundation of Las Vegas has been a catalyst for local governments to unify animal ordinances, enhance treatment policies and construct a LEEd®-certified, animal-friendly shelter capable of housing more than 70,000 animals a year.

PATRICIA MULROYGeneral Manager, Las Vegas Valley Water Districtsouthern Nevada Water Authority

Pat Mulroy oversees operations of the Las Vegas Valley Water district, which services more than 340,000 customers; and the southern Nevada Water Authority, which is responsible for acquiring, treating and delivering water to local agencies that collectively serve 2 million residents and 40 million annual visitors.

As general manger, Mulroy is exceptionally active in regional and national water issues, serving on a number of water management association boards. she is equally active in her community. she currently chairs the university of Nevada and Las Vegas college of sciences advisory boards, and has served on the Nevada Public Radio board of directors.

ROSEMARY VASSILIADISDeputy Director of Aviationclark county department of Aviation

As deputy director, Rosemary Vassiliadis oversees all operations at Mccarran International Airport, as well as general aviation airports in North Las Vegas, henderson, Jean and Overton. she is responsible for nearly 1,500 employees and leads the department in the absence of the director. Mccarran is one of the busiest airports in the world, with nearly 48 million passengers served in 2007.

under Vassiliadis’ supervision, Mccarran International Airport developed an industry-leading security program, while keeping customer service a priority. she directed the airport through the crisis of sept. 11, 2001. In 2004, she partnered with the TsA and the Las Vegas convention and Visitors Authority to introduce the nation’s first airport-based traveler education program, and has served as a member of the Nevada homeland security commission.

Photography by: Britt Pearson


HOw YOU CAn HELP

construction on the medical-scientific clinic has made significant progress. And with organizational plans and clinical and research programs already under way, the Lou Ruvo Brain Institute is poised for progress with the launch of its NEWTHINKINGABOUTTHINKING capital naming campaign.

LOU RUVO BRAIN INSTITUTE Las Vegas, Nevada1st floor Medical Building

LOU RUVO BRAIN INSTITUTE Las Vegas, Nevada2nd floor Medical Building

LOU RUVO BRAIN INSTITUTE Las Vegas, Nevada4th floor Medical Building

LOU RUVO BRAIN INSTITUTE Las Vegas, Nevada1st floor Activities center & Museum of the Mind

LOU RUVO BRAIN INSTITUTE Las Vegas, Nevadasite Plan

LOU RUVO BRAIN INSTITUTE Las Vegas, Nevada3rd floor Medical Building


RESEARCHERS HoNoREd

March 2008 – A coalition of leading Alzheimer’s organizations today announced the first three recipients of “Tomorrow’s Leaders in Alzheimer’s disease Research” designation, a new award mechanism to recognize outstanding young scientists in Alzheimer’s and dementia research.

THE wINNERS:

STERLING C. jOHNSON, Ph.D.Associate Professor of Medicine at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health; Research Scientist, GRECC, William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital – Madison, Wisconsin

his research uses brain imaging in conjunction with neuropsychological measurement to study cognitive disorders of memory and self-awareness.

DORA MARTA KOVACS, Ph.D.Associate Professor of Neurology at Harvard Medical School; Associate Neuroscientist, Neurology Services, Massachusetts General Hospital – Boston, Massachusetts

her research focuses on the molecular events underlying neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease.

jAMES j. LAH, M.D., Ph.D.Associate Professor in the Department of Neurology; Clinical Core Leader of the Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center; Investigator in the Center for Neurodegenerative Disease at Emory University School of Medicine – Atlanta, Georgia

he research is driven by the goal of understanding basic disease-causing mechanisms to improve the care of individuals with neurodegenerative disorders.

Tomorrow’s Leaders in Alzheimer’s Disease Research award

recognizes and encourages outstanding new researchers who have made pivotal contributions to early detection, treatment and prevention of Alzheimer’s disease and honors the legacies of two pioneering researchers – george g. glenner, M.d., and Leon J. Thal, M.d.

The annual award, sponsored by cure Alzheimer’s fund, the Alzheimer’s Association and the Lou Ruvo Brain Institute, was presented on May 14, 2008, at the Alzheimer’s Association National gala in Washington, d.c. Recipients received $100,000 each.

“The Alzheimer’s Association is very excited to be part of the creation of another innovative vehicle for funding young scientists,” said William Thies, Ph.d., Vice President for Medical & scientific Relations at the Alzheimer’s Association. “Alzheimer’s disease is the 21st century’s health epidemic, and the only way to successfully combat Alzheimer’s is to accelerate the investment in research," said Tim Amour, President and cEO of cure Alzheimer’s fund. “It’s a unique

THREE wINNERS OF NEw AwARD FOR YOUNG RESEARCHERS ANNOUNCED BY COALITION OF ALZHEIMER’S ORGANIZATIONS

Annual awards support “Tomorrow’s Leaders in Alzheimer’s Disease Research”; honoring legacies of Drs. George G. Glenner and Leon j. Thal

Harry Jones (left), Award Recipient Dr. Johnson (center), Tim Armour (right)

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award in this field that we hope will both reward and inspire the most innovative researchers to continue their focus on Alzheimer’s research as a career path.” during the last three decades, some of the most critical advances in Alzheimer’s research were made by unconventional thinkers or new investigators in dementia research. This award aims to foster investigators exploring ideas beyond the boundaries of prevailing scientific orthodoxies,” said Zaven Khachaturian, Ph.d., President and cEO of the Lou Ruvo Brain Institute. dr. Khachaturian anticipates the award will grow into a major vehicle for recognizing scientific achievement, creativity and vision in the field.

LEGENDS HONORED:GEORGE G. GLENNER, M.D. (1928 – 1995)dr. glenner headed the molecular pathology section and

chaired the department of Medicine and Physiology at the foundation for Advanced Education in the sciences at the National Institutes of health from 1958 to 1980. In 1982, he assumed a post as research pathologist at the university of california at san diego school of Medicine. his research identified beta-amyloid and its connection with Alzheimer’s and is the leading theoretical framework for understanding the disease.

LEON j. THAL, M.D. (1944 – 2007)A visionary in conceptualizing and designing Alzheimer’s clinical studies, dr. Thal led an unparalleled clinical research effort, including some of the trials that established the most important current symptomatic treatments. since 1994, Thal headed the Alzheimer’s disease cooperative study (Adcs), in the united states and canada. he also directed the university of california at san diego’s shirley-Marcos Alzheimer’s disease center, and chaired ucsd’s department of Neurosciences.

“In all their various roles, drs. Leon Thal and george glenner were celebrated as collaborators, consensus builders and mentors,” said harry Johns, President and cEO, Alzheimer’s Association. “To honor this collegial spirit, an organizing principle of the Tomorrow’s Leaders in Alzheimer’s Disease Research prize is collaboration among sponsoring institutions.”

ABOUT THE SPONSORS:The Lou Ruvo Brain Institute is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) public charity located in Las Vegas, Nevada, seeking to accelerate the discovery of cures for memory disorders and dementia associated with diseases such as Alzheimer’s, huntington’s, Parkinson’s and ALs. The Institute fosters the creation of worldwide cooperative research networks to develop new detection technologies for early and accurate diagnosis of dementia and facilitate the development of treatments for various forms of memory impairments. The LRBI aims to build a unique national research resource to accelerate the process of testing new interventions. Please visit www.LRBI.org.

cure Alzheimer’s fund is a national organization with offices in Boston and Pittsburgh. Please visit www.curealzfund.org.

The Alzheimer’s Association is the first and largest voluntary health organization dedicated to finding prevention methods, treatments and an eventual cure for Alzheimer’s. Please visit www.alz.org.

Information about the award, nomination procedures and deadlines are available on the websites of the three sponsoring organizations.


WHENYOU’REBORN,YOU’RENEWTOTHEWORld.EVERY-THINGSEEMSdIFFERENTANdAMAZING.FROMTHATMOMENTON,YOURTHINKINGCHANGES.THEWORldBECOMESMOREANdMOREFASCINATINGWITHEVERYTHINGYOUSEE.ASTHESETHOUGHTSABOUTTHEWORldBUIldUP,ANdYOUBECOMETHEPERSONYOUARE,YOURPERSONAlITYISPUTTOGETHERWITHTHISTHINKING.EVERY-THINGYOUARE,EVERYONEYOUlOVEANdEVERYTHINGYOUKNOW,ISMAdEFROMEVERYTHOUGHTINTHEWORld.ANdWECAN’TlOSETHAT.EVER.

our thoughts are our most precious gift, and we can’t lose that. By bringing in the world’s foremost

experts on brain disorders, we can pioneer the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, including

Alzheimer’s, Huntington’s, Parkinson’s, ALs and other memory disorders. Together, our state, our

nation and our world can change the way we think about thinking.

To learnmoreabouttheuniquemissionof thelouRuvoBrain InstitutevisitusatlRBI.org


888 W. BONNEVILLE AVE. LAs VEgAs, NV 89106

OffIcE 702.263.9797fAx 702.260.9797TOLL fREE 888.268.9797

www.KEEPMEMORYALIVE.org

Non-Profit Org.U.S. Postage

FPOLas Vegas, NVPermit #1400

INVEsT IN MEMORIEsgo to www.KEEPMEMORYALIVE.org

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

LARRY RuVOchairman

cAMILLE RuVOVice-chairman

sIgMuNd ROgIchsecretary

MIchAEL sEVERINOTreasurer

ZAVEN s. KhAchATuRIAN, Ph.d.President & cEO

LOVEE ARuM

chARLEs BERNIcK, M.d.

PETER EARLY

KENNY EPsTEIN

TEREsA fERTITTA

MAdIsON gRAVEs

dENNIs guTWALd, Esq.

JAMEs NELsON

dANIEL OTTER

RANdOLPh REAd

JEROME sNYdER, Esq.

PAuL sTEELMAN

dAVId sTEINBERg, M.d.

ROLLIE sTuRM

NANcY s. WExLER

LOU RUVO BRAIN INSTITUTE EXTERNAL SCIENTIFIC ADVISORY BOARD

RONALd PETERsON, M.d., Ph.d. (chAIR)Professor of Neurology Mayo clinic college of Medicine

PAuL gREENgARd, Ph.d.Nobel Laureate, Rockefeller university

ZAVEN KhAchATuRIAN, Ph.d. (Ex-OffIcIO)President & cEO, Keep Memory Alive

VIRgINIA LEE, Ph.d. director - center for Neurodegenerative disease Research, university of Pennsylvania

JOhN TROJANOWsKI M.d., Ph.d. director - Institute of Aging, university of Pennsylvania

NANcY WExLER, Ph.d. college of Physicians & surgeons columbia university

ANNE YOuNg, M.d., Ph.d Julieanne dorn Professor of Neurology harvard university

fOR AddITIONAL INfORMATIONPLEAsE cONTAcT:

chRIsTINA MOONdirector of development Keep Memory [email protected]

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New Thinking About Thinking