For me, the New Year marks a time of renewal, a season to embrace change and growth. I look forward to it every year. It’s a moment to reflect on the past with gratitude and step into the future with hope and purpose. Transitions, though often challenging, offer opportunities to reset and realign with our goals and values. By welcoming the unknown with courage and optimism, we create space for new beginnings. We can nurture possibility as we move forward with intention.
As we enter our 50th year as an organization, and we look toward the future, we carry with us the wisdom, lesson and energy of the past. Our present and future are built upon the foundation of many leaders, participants and families who came before us—their struggles, achievements, and dreams. Honoring the past means cherishing its lessons
while embracing the possibilities that lie ahead with open hearts and minds.
I am looking forward to moving through 2025, and all that it brings, with you!
“The past is to be respected and acknowledged but not worshipped; it is our future in which we will find our greatness”
— Pierre Trudeau, former Canadian Prime Minister
FOR YOUR HEALTH
Tips for staying on your feet
BY RACHELLE PREVOST AND LAURIE MCNEIL
Do you find yourself reaching for furniture or the walls as you walk? Do you get a little dizzy if you get up too fast? Do you worry about falling? You’re not alone.
Falls are the leading cause of injury in older adults. These injuries can increase your risk of more falls and prevent you from living safely in your home. As you get older, changes in your body and health can make it harder to get around safely. What’s the good news? There are several things you can do to stay on your feet.
• Stay active - Physical activity makes you stronger and more flexible. Activities can include walking, swimming, yoga or dancing. Stay safe by using a cane or walker if one has been prescribed to you. Not sure if an activity is safe for you to do? Ask your doctor for a prescription to a physical therapist in your area.
• Wear the right clothes and footwear - Long pants and dresses that drag on the floor, floppy shoes, high heels or shoes with slick soles can increase your risk of tripping or slipping. Avoid going barefoot or wearing only socks. Wearing sturdy footwear both inside and outside the house will also decrease joint pain and provide the support you need.
• Know the side effects - Some prescription and non-prescription medications can cause dizziness or make you feel sleepy and tired. Read the labels or ask your doctor or pharmacist if there are any side effects that can increase your risk for falls. Let your doctor know if you have these side effects and find out if any changes
can be made.
• Make your home safe -
✔ Keep pathways clear and level. Uneven surfaces can cause you to trip and fall. Keep walkways free from clutter. Move pet bowls and beds away from walkways. Secure electrical cords to the floor with tape. Avoid scatter rugs. In the bathroom, make sure rugs have nonslip backing and use nonslip strips or a mat in the tub/shower.
✔ Light it up. Use night lights in hallways and bathrooms. Make sure light switches are easy to reach and at the bottom and top of any stairs. Know where your flashlights are in case the power goes out.
✔ Hold the rails. Railings and grab bars are recommended for stairs, tub/showers, and near the toilet.
✔ Move it where you use it. Keep items you use often, like food, dishes, clothes- where you can easily reach them without using a stool or stooping forward.
With some simple changes, you can maintain your mobility and independence. If you need help, talk to your healthcare provider to find out what is best for you.
Rachelle Prevost, physical therapist and clinical manager with RiverStone Health Home Health, has 25 years of experience. Laurie McNeil, occupational therapist with RiverStone Health Home Health, has more than 30 years of experience in patient care. They can be reached at 406651-6500.
Laurie McNeil
Rachelle Prevost
FOR YOUR HEALTH
KEEP MOVING: Resources abound in Yellowstone County to stay safe and prevent falling
BY LINDA ROERS
When older adults mention having fallen, they tend to shrug it off as part of aging or not important because they didn't get seriously injured.
“I’m just getting older."
"I just tripped; it was my fault." or "I'm not going to do it again."
The American Public Health Association (APHA) reports that a variety of health care organizations and governmental agencies recognize falls for adults 65 and over as an “urgent national public health crisis.” Consider these sobering U.S. statistics:
• Every 20 minutes in the United States, an older adult dies from a fall; last year that was 38,000 deaths.
• More than 25% of U.S. adults over age 65 fall every year.
• People who have fallen once double their risk of falling again.
• Every year falls cause 300,000 hip fractures and hospitalize 800,000 Americans with other injuries.
• There are 3 million emergency department visits for falls due to physical inactivity, medication side effects, dementia, metabolic disorders such as diabetes and ‘vision impairment’.
Older Adults often don't tell their healthcare provider that they have fallen, unless a serious injury results requiring medical attention. Falling - even if you didn't get hurt this time - is a cautionary signal to visit with your healthcare provider about interventions to prevent another fall.
Working to stay strong and improve balance can do a lot to reduce the risk of falling. A consultation could be ordered for Physical or Occupational Therapy to improve your mobility and function.
With the aforementioned statistics and the healthcare costs
associated with them, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Be candid with your provider. If you are concerned, ask for a consultation with a physical therapist.
I know two local Doctors of Physical Therapy. This is what they had to say:
"Physical therapy plays a vital role in fall prevention for older adults. By identifying the causes of falls, we offer targeted exercise programs to strengthen the core and lower extremities, along with balance activities, to help patients regain safe functional independence. Additionally, we provide crucial education on home safety modifications, such as installing grab bars, improving lighting, addressing safety hazards, and using proper assistive devices." Shay Osborne, PT, DPT
I also spoke with Jay Griffith, Physical Therapist at Lone Peak Physical Therapy, about older adults and fall risk recently. He had some recommendations as well.
"Being open and honest with your therapist is crucial to help them understand your individual needs in terms of fall prevention. Utilizing treatment strategies tailored to you as an individual can greatly improve your confidence and stability with your daily activities and give you the ability to stay upright and safe. We have helped many individuals in the Billings community overcome the fear of falling and regain their ability to live better."
It is a fact that ‘fear of falling’ is another risk factor that increases the likelihood of falling. There are other psychological factors to consider as well.
Falls and near falls can lead to a spiral of reduced activity and human interaction which can increase isolation and lead to depression which brings us right back to increasing fall likelihood even more.
We shouldn’t underestimate the importance of human connection in staying active. We encourage others in ways that help us push through fear and discomfort and when we are trying to prevent falls, we need to do this for each other.
If you are concerned about your risk of falling PLEASE consider these programs offered in our community to prevent falls:
St. Vincent’s Regional Hospital has two programs that are designed to address the most common causes of falls as identified by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). I spoke with Eric Fisher at St. Vincent’s about these programs. He describes the first program as such:
"Stepping On" is a 7- week program that meets one day each week for 2 hours. This program is based on strength and balance, but participants spend a lot of time discussing topics of fall prevention that are coordinated by guest experts. Participants learn from each other and from the guest experts. Physical therapy is present to make sure that participants are doing the exercises correctly and assisting with accommodations to make sure that they get the greatest benefit from them. A pharmacist is also involved in the program to discuss side effects of medications and how they can be managed to reduce your risk of falling. An Optometrist is involved to discuss visual impairments. Public Safety and Injury Prevention members all guide topics throughout this program. Between classes there is strength and balance homework.
There was a recent article in AARP about vision and fall risk that I feel important to review here. I wear trifocal transitional lens eyeglasses and have noticed some changes myself in recent months while walking outdoors. Annual eye exams and a discussion about your current prescription for eyeglasses might be warranted especially if you wear transitional bifocal or trifocal lenses like I do.
Statistics show that fall risk is increased for adults with these lenses as it alters depth perception while walking. Studies have found that older people who wear progressive lenses like bifocals or trifocals were approximately twice as likely to suffer falls than those wearing single-vision lenses. Older adults with these types of lenses are three times as likely to trip and fall when walking outside the home.
A strategy to combat this is to talk to your optometrist about the possibility of using single vision lenses for walking outdoors. An alternative is to drop your chin when walking on stairs or uneven surfaces outdoors, because that allows you to look through the upper part of the lens- the portion that allows you to focus better at a distance – so that you can clearly see what’s at your feet.
Eric continues with more program details, “The Stepping On program also reviews strategies to reduce risks at home. Throw rugs, poor lighting, obstacles on the floor, even pets can cause falls. Risk reduction may include double-sided tape to keep rugs in place, better lighting, nonslip bathmats
and shower floor stickers, railings in stairwells and grab bars leading into the home and in bathrooms.” He also notes that, “Behavioral healthcare may be needed for older adults who are depressed. This illness tends to result in people moving less and taking more medication. Less movement leads to weaker muscles, which increases fall risk.”
SAIL is the other program offered continuously at St. Vincent’s. It stands for Stay Active and Independent for Life. Eric describes the program this way, “This one is nearly all stretching, strength, balance, and mobility exercises for an hour two days a week. Each day they have a short discussion about a fall prevention topic as part of the program. The visible changes and feedback that we get from the program about improvements in quality of life demonstrate its value to the community.”
To keep moving, talk to the Adult Resource Alliance staff in the Resource Center about classes and programs in our community that could help prevent falls that could steal your mobility and independence.
Check out the classes currently being offered through the Adult Resource Alliance that are listed on pages 14 and 15 of this edition of Prime Connections.
Take a positive step (pun intended) to increase your strength, mobility and balance to reduce your risk of falling. Remember: Everything you do to prevent a fall is an investment in your health and wellbeing!
✔ Shay Osborne, PT, DPT is a physical therapist at Mountain Land Physical Therapy in Laurel. She can be reached at 406-633-4620
✔ Jay Griffith, PT, DPT, is a physical therapist and clinical director of Lone Peak Physical Therapy. He can be reached at 406-534-3231
✔ SAIL takes place year-round and Stepping On is organizing the next program at St. Vincent Regional Hospital for 2025. Please contact Michelle Amundsen at 406-697-5538 or Eric Fisher at 406-237-4181 for more information.
✔ Billings Recreation Center will be offering SAIL and Stepping On in 2025. Please stay informed by reading through future editions of Prime Connections for those classes. You may also call Jennifer Brown at 406-657-3051
✔ Linda Roers is a member of the board of directors for the Adult Resource Alliance of Yellowstone County.
WHAT'S COOKING
SENIOR LUNCH PROGRAM
Meet our Kitchen Team
Jami Combs, Kitchen Coordinator
Hi, everyone! I'm Jami the Kitchen coordinator for the Adult Resource Alliance, I've been helping prepare meals for seniors in Billings for 11 years. I moved here from Washington State in the summer of 2012. Montana has become my new home. I have 3 amazing kids and I am now enjoying being a new Grandma. I love spending time with my Grandson, and in April I will be enjoying more of my time with my new Granddaughter. I'm super excited!!
Winter Gaustad, Cook
My name is Winter Gaustad, and I have worked at the Adult Resource Alliance about 6 1/2 years. I cook and prepare the meals for the seniors that are homebound as well as the seniors that come to our meal site at our Avenue D location. I love preparing meals for each and every one of our participants. It makes me truly happy to feed the seniors in our community. I am so thankful to be part of this amazing team.
OUR MISSION
is to provide effective services and lead collaborative efforts to ensure seniors remain independent with the highest possible quality of life.
Adult Resource Alliance’s Meals on Wheels Program (MOW) offers a hot nutritious meal to those over 60 years of age who are homebound. They are delivered by volunteers, Monday through Friday between 10:00 and 12:30. Meals are available on a shortterm basis for persons recovering from a hospital stay or surgery until the person is no longer homebound. If a person is able to prepare their own meals, or lives with someone who can prepare their meals you may be denied.
And just like that, we are starting a new year! I’m usually a little sad, after the magic and excitement of the holidays is done and we are back to “normal,” but this new year is different. We have some changes coming to Meals on Wheels that will be keeping us busy and challenged!
Jaime Carpenter, our MOW Coordinator, will be retiring soon. February 28th will be her last day. It will be bittersweet watching her leave. She has been such a great leader, advocate, mentor and friend. She has worked tirelessly to ensure that MOW provides hot meals to seniors in need and taken such good care of our awesome volunteers! I am excited for her and this new chapter of her life. It is time for her to relax and take care of herself! I know she has some travel plans and will be spending time with her family. There is even a rumor that she might substitute occasionally for some of our volunteer drivers (Fingers crossed!). So, if you get a chance, be sure to wish Jaime well on her next adventure!
Let me introduce myself. My name is Stacy Seward. I am married to Jesse, the most patient man in the world! We have a blended family of 4 boys. They range in age from 30 to 16. I will be taking over Jaime’s position and we will be
adding someone to assist me. I have worked with Jaime for almost 5 years. Before COVID I worked at the congregate meal sites in Shepherd, Worden and Huntley for a year, and before that I spent 26 years at RiverStone Health Home Care and Hospice Services. I have always enjoyed working with the senior population and look forward to continuing to do so as your new MOW coordinator! Jaime is a tough act to follow, but I am going to do my best!
By now you should have received your Emergency Meal Kit. Please keep your kit on hand, in case we cannot deliver a meal due to weather or unforeseen circumstances. Shane, our facility and maintenance person, has put the kits together entirely by himself the last couple of years. We sure appreciate his help!
I hope that you are enjoying the new year and all it has to offer. It can be tough surviving the cold months of winter, but there is always a promise of spring and sunny days to come! In the meantime, if you have any questions, concerns, or comments, please contact MOW at the Alliance and we will be happy to assist you!
— Jaime & Stacy
BILLINGS & LAUREL MEAL SITES
BILLINGS & LAUREL MEALS
JANUARY MENU
Three Cheese Quiche
Sausage Links
Tropical Fruit
Blueberry Whip
Lemon Dill Cod
Sorry we're CLOSED
Crispy Chicken
Sandwich with lettuce & Tomato Jo Jo’s
Director: Lorri
Cooks: Jami, Mary, Winter, Allison, and Amy
Country Fried Steak with Gravy
Mashed Potatoes
Buttered Corn
Peaches
Zucchini Bar 6
Cheeseburger with Pickles & Onions
Baked Beans
Chips
Peanut Butter ~ Cookie
Sweet & Sour Chicken over Rice
Asian Blend Veg. Chinese Cashew ~
Polish Dog on a Bun Mac & Cheese
Pudding
Lasagna Corn on the Cob Mexi~Slaw Fruit Crisp with Topping
Oven Roasted
Chicken
Orzo Rice & Peas
Vegetable
Mixed Fruit
Magic Bar 13
Pork Chow Mein
Brown Rice
Egg Roll with Sauce
Sliced Peaches
Strawberry ~ Ice Cream
Cowboy Beans with Corn Bread
Buttered Corn Apple
Snickerdoodle Cookie
Open Faced ~
Meatloaf Sandwich with Gravy
Mashed Potatoes
Country Trio Veg. Banana Bar
& Chips
Wedge
Beef & Mushrooms over Mashed Potatoes
Steamed Broccoli
Peaches
Rainbow Sherbet
Turkey Ala King
Buttered Biscuit Harvard Beets
Apricots
Butterscotch Pudding with Topping
Tuna Casserole Peas & Carrots
Pineapple Chunks with Coconut Orange Pumpkin Mousse
Shepherd’s Pie Winter Blend Veg. Garden Salad
Pineapple/Mandarin Orange Cup
Black Bean Chili with Cheese, Onions, & Sour Cream
Frito’s
Banana Carmel Roll
Chicken Fried Chicken with Gravy Mashed Potatoes Crinkle Carrots
Turkey Divan with Cranberries
Sweet Mashed ~ Potatoes
Peas & Carrots
Tropical Fruit
Chocolate Cake with Peanut Butter
Frosting
Chocolate Brownie WE Birthday 24
Swiss Steak
Wild Rice
Green Beans
Sliced Pears
Cake
Alliance, Hts, BCC, & Laurel Birthday
Chicken Thigh with Spanish Rice
Seasoned Corn
Ambrosia Salad
Cowboy Cookie
*Menu subject to change. Milk available on request. MEAL
Ave D, BCC, & Westend 406-259-9666
Billings Heights Meal Site ............ 406- 606-1170
South Side Senior Center ............. 406-256-6413
Laurel Senior Center 406- 628-7571
Meals on Wheels: ......................... 406-259-9666
☛ A requested donation of $6.00 per meal for adults 60 and above.
☛ Under 60 charge is $8.00.
☛ Menu is subject to change ☛ GF = Gluten Free on Request
Pork Roast with Stuffing & Gravy
Harvard Beets
Diced Pears
Blueberry Dump Cake Nutrition
BILLINGS & LAUREL MEAL SITES
BILLINGS & LAUREL MEALS ON WHEELS
FEBRUARY MENU
3
Chicken Strips with Honey Mustard
Side Winders
Pea & Cheese Salad
Ice Cream Sandwich 4
10
Cheesy Ham & Hash
Brown Casserole
Boiled Egg
Fruit Cocktail
Beef Stew with a Biscuit
Corn on the Cob Apple
Rice Krispy Bar 5
Yogurt with Granola 11 GF Chinese Vegetable Steak
White Rice
Asian Blend Veg
Oriental Coleslaw
Orange Wedges
17 18
Country Fried Steak with Gravy
Mashed Potatoes
Turkey Primavera
Noodles
Harvard Beets
Ceaser Salad Banana
Smothered ~ Mushroom Pork Chop
Wild Rice
Apricots
Snickerdoodle Cookie
Buttered Corn Pears 19
Lemon Peppered
Tilapia with tartar
Sauce
Garden Rice
Stewed Tomatoes
Lemony Blueberry Salad
Cheeseburger with Onions & Pickles
Chips Pears
Nutrition Program
Director: Lorri
Cooks: Jami, Mary, Winter, Allison, and Amy
Ranger Cookie 7
Chicken Parmesan
Rice Pilaf
Steamed Broccoli
Sliced Peaches
Jell-O Cake
14
Tator Tot Casserole
Crinkle Cut Carrots
Garden Salad
Raspberry Bar
24
Stroganoff over
Noodles
Mixed Vegetables
Orange Jell-O ~
Salad
Pineapple with Coconut
3
Crispy Chicken
Sandwich with Lettuce & Tomato
Baked Beans
Peaches
Sugar Cookie
Beef Enchilada with Salsa & Sour Cream
Mexi~Corn Fruit Cocktail Churro
4
Spaghetti with Meat
Sauce
Garlic Bread
Normandy Veg. Tossed Salad Ice Cream
Sweet & Sour Pork
White Rice
Egg Roll
Tapioca Pudding
20
Cheese Ravioli with Alfredo Sauce
Garlic Bread
Steamed Broccoli
Ceasar Salad
Cherry Pie Bar
Chicken Cordon Bleu with Hollandaise
Sauce
Potatoes Supreme
Mixed Vegetable
Dinner Roll
Cherry Cheesecake
21
BBQ Meatballs
Au Gratin Potatoes
Buttered Peas
Tropical Fruit
Chocolate Cake
Mashed Potatoes with Gravy
Carrots
Rosy Pear WE Birthday
Cowboy Beans with Cornbread Carrots
Broccoli Salad
Mandarin Oranges
28
Chicken Cacciatore
Wild Rice
Green Beans Spinach
Salad
Cake
Alliance, Hts, BCC, & Laurel Birthday
Tennessee Pride Casserole Green Beans
Tropical Fruit
Peanut Butter Bar 7
Salisbury Steak
Mashed Potatoes with Gravy
Peas
Sliced Pears
Lemon Cake
*Menu subject to change. Milk available on request. MEAL SITE
Ave D, BCC, & Westend 406-259-9666
Billings Heights Meal Site ............ 406- 606-1170
South Side Senior Center ............. 406-256-6413
Laurel Senior Center 406- 628-7571
Meals on Wheels: ......................... 406-259-9666
☛ A requested donation of $6.00 per meal for adults 60 and above.
☛ Under 60 charge is $8.00.
☛ For Meal Sites serving time and locations please visit Our Community section
must be made by Noon, at least 1 business day in advance.
CONNECTIONS
BILLINGS COMMUNITY & SENIOR CENTER
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE ADULT RESOURCE ALLIANCE
406-657-3050 | 360 N 23RD ST, BILLINGS, MT | WWW.BILLINGSPARKS.ORG
Dates: 2/14-3/6 Day(s) Sat Time 9:30-10:30 Cost: $30
Resident/$40 Non-resident Location: Billings Community Center (360 N 23rd St.)
Beginner Tai Chi and Tai Chi
Free- Day(s) Tues Time Beginner Tai Chi 2:00-3:00pm Tai Chi 3:00-4:00pm (closed during holidays)
Location: North Park Center (6th Ave N and 19th)
Oil Painting-NEW
Dates: 1/7-2/25 Day(s) Tues Time 1:00-3:00pm Cost: $50
Resident/$60 Non-resident
Location: Billings Community Center (360 N 23rd St.)
PRPL Community & Senior Center Partnership with Yellowstone Genealogy Forum
A forum volunteer will be available Monday through Friday from 1:00 to 3:00 PM to assist participants with genealogy research. Additionally, the forum will help develop and run enrichment programs, offering new opportunities for learning and exploration.
Fitness Room
Open Monday – Friday 9am – 4pm (last time to start)
Cost: 0.50 donation
Location: Billings Community Center (360 N 23rd St.)
SENIOR SCHOLARSHIPS
Billings Parks and Recreation is committed to providing life-long recreation for everyone, regardless of economic status, and offers a Senior Scholarships Program to help seniors 55+ with limited income participate in fitness and recreation programs. Funded entirely by community donations, 100% of contributions go directly to supporting seniors; to donate or apply, visit the Billings Community and Senior Center at 360 N 23rd Street.
• DAILY GAME SCHEDULE AT • BILLINGS COMMUNITY CENTER
Schedule subject to change based on facility needs. MONDAY 1:00pm Hand & Foot
Sarah, Community Health Worker • Erin, Service Coordinator For more information call 406-294-1590 Care OF
The Senior Circle of Care: Year Two
As we wrap up year two of the Senior Circle of Care we are excited to look back at the clients we outreached in 2024! The Senior Circle of Care’s goal is to provide in-home screenings to homebound seniors, empowering them to live safely at home and connect them with volunteer services and professional referrals. In 2024, 168 seniors were screened at home. Sarah, the Community Health Worker, approaches clients holistically to provide comprehensive screenings. We use these screenings to help decide, with clients, what services would most benefit them. Volunteer services include
• RIDES non-medical transportation
• Pantry Pals grocery shopping
• Chore Corps handy person services
• Friend Companion
• Meals on Wheels
• Social Buddies friendly phone calls
• Pet Care Services
• Bookkeeping assistance
Additionally, we can help make client referrals into professional programs like medical rides, home care assistance, Medicare and Medicaid counseling, Caregiver
Support, and Tax-Aide.
We now have more clients using our volunteer services. We have enrolled 75 clients into our volunteer programs receiving rides, grocery shopping, and friendly visits. Are you interested in learning more about the screening or about one of the services listed above? Call Erin at 406294-1590 for more information.
2024 Senior Farmer’s Market Nutrition Program Wrap-up
Thank you so much to all the vendors and participants of the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program! We had a great summer and fall getting fresh produce out to seniors across Yellowstone County!
THIS YEAR IN NUMBERS:
• 198 low-income seniors received $48 each in vouchers to spend at the local markets.
• 86% redeemed all or part of their coupons to purchase fresh fruits, veggies, herbs, and honey!
Thank you, Farm Connect Montana, for allowing us to provide $6,872 of healthy produce to low-income seniors in Yellowstone County!
SARAH, COMMUNITY HEALTH WORKER, IS ON THE LEFT AND ERIN, SERVICE COORDINATOR, IS ON THE RIGHT.
WE ARE Celebrating 50 Years!
This is the first of a series of interesting history and tidbits highlighted over our 50th year.
The Yellowstone County Council on Aging (YCCOA), now doing business as the Adult Resource Alliance, was formed in October of 1975 by a resolution of the Yellowstone County Commissioners. They appointed 7 community members to serve as the coordinating body for programs for the elderly in Yellowstone County. At the time it was formed there was no budget and no formal organization.
Let’s go back to the beginning. There were three programs available before the YCCOA was formed. In 1950, the City of Billings organized the first Billings Golden Age Club under the guidance of the Billings Department of Public Recreation. By 1957 this club had 275 active members and they were located at 13 N. 29th Street. It became known as the Northside Senior Citizens Center.
In 1971, a committee of the First Congregational Church started a program planned as a dinner club for senior citizens who lived alone, and this resulted in the formation of Meals on Wheels Inc., initially serving 25 seniors. This program morphed into the Senior's Dinner Program Inc., and operated as a private non-profit that provided Meals on Wheels and had one meal site in Billings. The third program that was in place was the Retired Senior Volunteer Program which was under the direction of CAP, now the HRDC.
In the mid 60's the federal government passed the Older
Americans Act which is still in place today. This act provides funds that support transportation, in home services, Meals on Wheels, senior centers, senior meal programs and other services.
With the formation of the YCCOA by the county commissioners, by 1978 the nutrition program came under that umbrella and soon there were 6 nutrition sites across the county and Meals on Wheels also expanded. RSVP had 450 volunteers placed into 53 work stations. The Minor Home Repair program was in full swing. A senior and disabled transportation program was being provided by Special Transportation Inc. There was a contract in place with the City-County Health Department and the Senior Health Program to help people stay in their homes. Recreational activities were available at the meal sites/senior centers in Laurel, Southside Center in Billings, Worden, Huntley and Custer.
During this year long celebration of the 50th year of serving the people of Yellowstone County, many more tidbits of information regarding the Yellowstone County Council on Aging will be shared with you.
If you have memories, photos, or stories that you would like to share, please let Erika Purington, Executive Director, know! You can email to erikap@allianceyc.org or drop something in the mail to the Adult Resource Alliance, 1505 Ave. D, Billings, 59102.
LIFE’S Observations…
It's a new year, going forward, and many newly elected officials will be entering public service positions for the first time. They will be sworn in to their highly sought after jobs by declaring, among other things, their oath to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic.
I remember taking that oath years ago and feeling a rush of emotion, or something, that said to me that this is real and I should pay attention to the words spoken. George Washington called this Providence or divine providence because it is more all-encompassing than the various interpretations of the word 'God'. We trust that all these newly minted public servants will keep in mind the best interests of us folks, we the people, all the people.
Another new year bit of gratitude is a shout out to Judy Hughes, who, as editor, guided this troupe of content contributors for many years. Often times, in choosing a theme or “serving suggestion” for her writers, she would hark back to some particularly salient contemporary musical selection that would resonate with the target audience of this publication. (That demographic is largely made up of people who like to read, are open to considering multiple interpretations of “the good old days”, and are likely to read a magazine, like this one, from cover to cover).
As we age, we become more and more creatures of habit, so that favorite reading area might be a comfortable chair, next to a lamp on a small table where we can lay down a magazine, and our reading glasses. Our second favorite reading area is a comparatively small often windowless room, in the middle of the house, that probably contains a mirror, a sink and other porcelain features. It likely also houses a magazine rack, where you might find this magazine.
Enough for the greetings and salutations. Since we're on the subject, what I really wanted to tell you about is our bathrooms. Years ago, our second oldest son had hired a man who, like many of his ilk, was a drifter. Drifters are often times well-springs of practical knowledge, good with their hands and skilled with any tool in the shop. They are good at working for a wide variety of people by virtue of
starting over with a new boss so many times. Their lives are a constant cycle of lather, rinse, repeat.
More often than not, they share a common darker side, as well. It seems they are so often haunted by something, real or imagined, preventing them from opening the next gate or following a familiar road over the next hill, that they will leave. No amount of encouragement will allow them to stay. This act of constantly starting over is a puzzlement to me, but maybe it's manifest destiny to someone else?
Such a man was John, who completely remodeled our bath and a half with terrazzo tile on the floors and in the showers.
He installed a Jacuzzi tub, a pedestal sink and an easieron-the-knees high toilet. He took some clues from high end hotels and mansions he had worked on and incorporated some of those materials, skills and talents in our house, small as it is by today's standards. But here we are, a few short decades later, and even that former work needs a little tune-up. Thirty plus years of Montana's alkaline well water and countless baths, showers and flushes has taken a toll on some of the plumbing.
To the rescue, once again, is our son and his two high schooler sons who came from Minnesota to help get Grandma and Grandpa snugged up by Thanksgiving. But that's not all. I especially need to thank our oldest son and our daughter who live close by and tail us up with great regularity. They have families and responsibilities of their own, but are always available to be “Rescue Rangers”. How blessed we are.
When we're done, the Jacuzzi tub in the main bath should “jacuzz” like new and an annoying, once-in-a-while drip behind the wall will be extricated permanently from this address. The other bathroom will have a new floor, wainscoting on the walls, a pedestal sink and a toilet to match the other bathroom, and a smile on Grandma's face. I am comforted to know that this may be the last time we'll do this sort of thing before we too change our permanent address to that quiet neighborhood south of town.
01-25-25- Billings Symphony Free Family Concert: The Orchestra Games
01-28-25-01-29-25- STOMP
02-01-25- “I Am, He Said” – Celebrating Neil Diamond
02-07-25- DTB Bluegrass Band (Student Matinee)
02-07-25- Damn Tall Buildings
02-15-25- Billings Symphony Presents The Long Walk Home
02-18-25- International Guitar Night
02-23-25-The Black Jacket Symphony Presents Led Zeppelin’s “IV”
02-25-25-Doktor Kaboom (Student Matinee)
02-28-25- Trailblazing Women of Country
ARTHOUSE
Fly Fishing Film Tour 2025 Thu, Feb 20, 2025, 7:00 pm
BILLINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY
¡Hablar Conmigo! - A safe place to come and use your Spanish speaking skills! All levels welcome! Your presenter is not fluent, but working towards that goal. Large Conference Room - Thursdays, beginning January 2, 2025, 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Qigong & Tai Chi Open Practice - Qigong & Tai Chi are very similar "internal arts" that confer an astonishing raft of health benefits. Slow-moving & graceful. Balance. Strength. Coordination. Digestion.
Circulation. Concentration. Bones. Feeling of wellbeing. Peaceful, calm mind. It's not only health-giving, it's enjoyable.
Thursdays, January 2, 2025- February 27, 2025, 5:30pm6:30pm
Community Room
Crochet & Knitting Hour - This Crochet and Knitting Hour will be from 10am – 11am and the time will be used to ask questions of each other, learn new things, and enjoy the company of other likeminded people. This will be a time of helping each other by passing on skills, tips and tricks, or just giving encouragement. All levels are welcome!
Saturdays, beginning January 4, 2025, 10:00am - 11:00am
Memory Café - Adults experiencing memory loss and their caregivers are invited to visit the library to socialize and enjoy an activity together. This event is sponsored by Dementia Friendly Billings and Big Sky Senior Services. For more information and to RSVP, please contact Becky at 406-259-3111
Community Room - Tuesdays, beginning January 7, 2025 - 10:30am - 12:30pm
BILLINGS STUDIO THEATER
Halfway There JANUARY 31-FEBRUARY 15
May We All – A Country Musical FEBRUARY 28-MARCH 15
COLUMBIA CLUB- 2216 Grand Avenue
Come Dance with Us – Sponsored by BSCI 2nd Wednesday of every month, except July & August7:00-10:00 pm - Cover charge $5.00
DOWNTOWN BILLINGS
First Fridays – Friday, January 3, and February 7
METRAPARK
The Great Rockies Sport Show – Expo Center Jan 17 - Jan 19, 2025
Harlem Globetrotters 2025 World Tour – First Interstate Arena
Feb 06, 2025, 7pm, prices vary Mate Show / Home & Health Expo - MetraPark Feb 20-22, 2025
No Limits Monster Trucks – First Interstate Arena Feb 22, 7 pm, prices vary
YELLOWSTONE CRIBBAGE CLUB
OPEN TO ALL SKILL LEVELS. 9 Game Tournament every Wednesday at 5:30 pm
Laurel Eagle Club. $12 each. 406-861-4823 for more info or see Facebook.
Tuesday, January 28, 7 pm HISTORIC USS CONSTITUTION TOUR OF U.S. PORTS, 1931-1934
Tuesday, February 25, 7 pm
LAUREL EVENTS
Pop-Up Market – Whether you're shopping for something special or just love discovering local gems, this market will have it all. It’s a great chance to explore, shop, and support the community! We’re welcoming all vendors with unique products, services, and offerings — no matter your specialty. The more variety, the better!
Saturday, January 25 – 9am-1pm – 101 W 1st St
Community Flea Market – Got stuff you don’t need anymore? Want to make some extra cash or find hidden treasures? Join us at FIRST on FIRST for a community-only flea market where anyone can claim a space and bring whatever you’d like to sell! This event is for individuals — not businesses — so whether you’re selling clothes, toys, books, or just things you’ve outgrown, we want you to be part of the fun! It’s the perfect chance to declutter, shop for unique finds, or just enjoy a day of treasure hunting. Whether you’re selling or shopping, it’s all about community and great deals!
Spaces are first come, first served, so grab yours today and get ready to sell!
101 W 1st St, Laurel, MT – Saturday, February 22, 2025
THE RESOURCE CENTER
One of the most important resolutions is to put your affairs in order. The National Institute on Aging has compiled the following list of information and documents to assist you in preparing for an emergency. Remember, once you have these documents and information assembled, be sure to tell your family where these items can be found.
PERSONAL INFORMATION
• Full legal name, Social Security number, Legal residence, Date and place of birth
• Names and addresses of spouse and children
• Location of birth and death certificates and certificates of marriage, divorce, citizenship, and adoption
• Employers, education and military records
• Names and phone numbers of close friends, relatives and religious contacts
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
• Sources of income and assets (SSA, pensions, IRAs, 401(k)s, etc.)
• Insurance information (life, long-term care, home, car) with policy numbers
• Names of your banks and account numbers (checking, savings, credit union)
• Investment income (stocks, bonds, property)
• Copy of most recent income tax return
• Liabilities, including property tax—what is owed
• Mortgages and debts
• Location of original deed of trust for home
• Car title and registration
• Location of safe deposit box and key
HEALTH INFORMATION
• Current prescriptions (be sure to update this regularly)
• Living will and location of most up-todate will with an original signature
• Durable power of attorney for health care
• Copies of any medical orders or forms you have (for example, a do-not-resuscitate orders)
• Health insurance information with policy and phone numbers
Property Tax Assistance 2025
Do you need assistance paying for your property taxes in 2025? The Resource Center can help you apply for the LowIncome Tax Assistance Program or the Elderly Homeowner/ Renter Tax Credit.
ELDERLY HOMEOWNER/RENTER TAX CREDIT
Individuals at least age 62 at the end of the calendar year for which they are claiming the credit may qualify if they:
• had household income of less than $45,000
• lived in Montana for at least 9 months of the calendar year
• rented, owned or leased a home in the state for at least 6 months
The amount of the tax credit is based on household income, rent, and property tax. It can range from $0-$1,150.
PROPERTY TAX ASSISTANCE PROGRAM 2025
Include your spouse's income in your 2023 FAGI regardless of whether they are a co-owner of the home
• Own or currently be under a contract to purchase a home or mobile/manufactured home
• Live in the home as your primary residence for at least seven months of the year
• Have a 2023 Federal Adjusted Gross Income (FAGI), excluding capital and income losses, less than:
• Single: $28,329
• Married or Head of Household: $37,968
Include your spouse's income in your 2023 FAGI regardless of whether they are a co-owner of the home.
Depending on your marital status and income, the reduction is 80%, 50%, or 30% of the normal tax rate. The income ranges are updated each year for inflation.
You may use this table to find which level or reduction you will receive if you qualify for this program in Tax Year 2025.
If you are interested in either of these programs and need help applying, please contact 406-259-5212.
Can you make an easier to read version of this table – and can it be less spread out.
CAREGIVER SUPPORT PROGRAM
Christina and Lily, Caregiver Support Coordinators 406-259-5212
15 Ways to Care for Yourself and Avoid the Wintertime Blues
(WRITTEN BY CARINGBRIDGE)
It’s an understatement to say that caregivers have a tough job.
Hence the irony: who needs more care than a caregiver?
We know it can be difficult to find the time for self-care, but it’s important to remember that your own wellness is still a priority. We also know caregivers may be too burned out to think of exactly what they need, so we asked our community for suggestions.
Here are tips to help you truly practice self-care:
1. Let Go of Guilt
First of all: know that you are worthy of care, and you do not need to feel guilty or selfish for that. Let go of the notion that putting yourself first is wrong – you’re a human with needs, too.
“It might seem selfish to be a caregiver taking care of yourself first, but it was like what the flight attendants say: ‘Put your own oxygen mask on first.’ Then I was available to be a really supportive caregiver.” -Unknown
2. Join a Caregiver Support Group
Without proper support, providing care can be lonely and isolating. Joining a group of people who share similar experiences can create a strong sense of community and help you feel less alone.
FOR SUPPORT: See the CareTime Caregiver Support Group provided by Adult Resource Alliance.
3. Stretch and Breathe
You don’t need to join a yoga studio to know the benefits of breathing and a good stretch. Try these
Stand facing out a window. Take deep breaths, slowly exhale. Then reach up to stretch, and then down to the floor.
It’s a small thing that might be refreshing.
4. Get Some Laughs
Whether it’s calling your funniest friend or watching a favorite comedian, it’s important that you still get some regular chuckles.
5. Talk to Someone Once a Day
You should talk to at least one person other than your care recipient every day – staying social is extremely important for your mental health and wellbeing.
Have a few people you can trust on speed dial to call whenever you need to vent or be distracted by a topic other than caregiving.
6. Don’t go through your health journey alone.
Try to stay connected to friends and family, ask them to help by planning and coordinating meals, even food delivery gift cards like uber eats and Door Dash can help experience the love from any distance.
7. Don’t Be Afraid to Say “No”
Caregivers often have a hard time saying “no” because it can make you feel like you are letting your friends or loved ones down. Decline that extra invite, sideline overstepping relatives, and skip after-hours work events if you need time to yourself—so you can breathe and focus on what’s really important in your life.
8. Ask for Flexibility at Work
It can become difficult to balance your work commitments when the role of caregiver is added to your life. Caregiving itself can become its own full-time job.
Consider sitting down with your team and explaining the situation. Work together to see if there are any areas you can
have more flexibility, whether it be remote work opportunities or a shifting of work hours.
9. Take Time for Spiritual Practices/Meditation
Engaging in a particular spiritual practice or meditation is something you can do at any time to get a sense of peace. Meditation helps reduce anxiety and stress and can improve sleep. If you’re religious, you can find comfort in your community/church, and request that your loved ones help you start a support chain.
10. Keep a Gratitude Journal
Even on the days where nothing is going right, there are still things to be grateful for. Keeping a gratitude journal can actually help you rewire your brain to be more positive, and also give you a record to look back to when you’re struggling to see the good.
11. Listen to Music
Music is a free, enjoyable means to a happier life. The best part is, you can listen to it while doing pretty much anything – cleaning, driving or cooking.
“I like to listen to music while I am cooking, I also do a little dancing while cooking! I oftentimes look a little silly, but it brings lots of stress reducing exercise and laughter, especially when the others in my house get involved.” -Lily Hagel
12. Make Time for Your Hobbies
Your hobbies contribute to your happiness, and many aren’t time-consuming or costly.
Consider the activities you enjoy doing just for fun. Do you like gardening? Painting? Photography? Piano? Make a list of your favorite hobbies and see which of them fit best into your lifestyle. Then, try to incorporate these interests into your daily or weekly routine.
13. Take in the Moment
If you don’t have much time but you are feeling overwhelmed, simply stop what you are doing and look around you. What do you see? Do you see the kids at the park, can you hear them laughing? Did you notice the flowers next to you, did you smell them? Have you admired the painting on the wall? Now take a deep breath and let yourself feel the wave of refreshed energy.
14. Don’t Make Self-Care Another “To-Do”
If certain aspects of self-care are truly not in your reach, skip them. Find a few things that work for you, your schedule, and your budget.
CARETIME Caregiver Support Group
Please remember you must rsvp prior to attendance (no later than the day before the meeting). When you rsvp, please specify which location you will be attending. CALL 406-259-5212.
Virtual and call-in options available if you are unable to attend in-person.
HEIGHTS LOCATION
JANUARY 28 • 1-2PM
TOPIC: MEMORY CAFÉ DISCUSSION by Becky Meisenheimer
FEBRUARY 25 • 1-2PM
TOPIC: BUILDING FOUNDATIONS OF CAREGIVING by Mary Martin RN, CCS, Alzheimer’s Association
AVE D LOCATION
JANUARY 8 • 1-2PM
TOPIC: THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN HOME HEALTH, HOME CARE, AND HOSPICE By Mary Abrahams, Community Outreach Coordinator, Riverstone Health
FEBRUARY 12 • 1-2PM
TOPIC: GENERAL SHARING
15. Be Kind to Yourself
Lastly, please go easy on yourself. Take things one step at a time. Creating a self-care routine may be a trial-and-error process, so be patient and kind to yourself while you figure it out. The most important thing is that you simply start including yourself in the conversation of care.
SUPPORTERS
Thank you to each one of you who made a contribution during the months of October and November 2024!
You truly are making a positive difference in the lives of seniors in our community.
Gene & Bobi Allard
Bernard Allen
Bonnie Ambuehl
Laureen Ammon
Catherine Andersen
Cynthia Anderson
Eirik & Bonnie Anderson
Fred & Delores Anderson
Judith Hart Andrews
Anonymous
Ruth Armstrong
Elva Arthur
James Baker
Scott & Linda Baker
David & Marie Bakke
William Baldi
Timothy & Betty Ballou
Jack Barnard
Diana Baxter
Carol Beam
Ray & Jean Becker
Frankie Bennett
Mike & Lauretta Bentz
Barbara Berg
Charles & Laura Bikle
Steve & Jane Bjordahl
Joseph & Carol Blades
Alan Blank
Juanita Blee
Craig Blom
Connie Bogar
Laurie Boutelle
Diane & Mike Boyett
Deborah Brace
Bill Bray
Pete Brekhus
Vonice Brent
Kirstie & Doris Bromenshenk
Joe & Tammy Bryce
Steve Budde
Carol Callen
John & Karren Cannon
Bryan & Stephanie Canty
David & Cindy Carlson
Penny Carlson
Steve & Paula Carmony
William Caton
Mary & Frank Cipech
Charitable Trust
Carol Clapper
Curt & Joan Colby
Joe Cook
Cheryl Cormier
Bradley & Pamela Coy
Judy Cucciardi
Peter & Alta Dean
Evelyn Dempsey
Butch Dempster
Denny Menholt Chevrolet
Dale & Nancy Detrick
Dick & Sue DeVries
Edie & Greg Dibble
Rebekah Donaldson
Leo & Kathleen Doran
Alan & Jamie Dorhauer
Otto & Jody Dringman
Marlin & Sharon Dunlap
Lottie Eaton MD/Curt Starr
Elaine Egan
Beverly Elkin
Shirley Elliott
Gail & Eunice Ellison
Charlotte Erpenbach
Jeannette Erwin
James Etzel
Darlene Fernelius
Teresa Fischer
Florence S. Mahoney
Foundation
Phyllis Foss
Cynthia Foster
Virginia Frank
Ruth & David French
Doug Frette
Shadd & Lavonne Fritz
Judy Fura
Betty Gancze
Dixie Garner
Steven & Alice Garr
Zack & Virginia Garretson
Marilou Gaskill
Miechel & Sherrill Geddes
Gary Giangneco
Roman Gillitzer
Debra Goodheart
Joan Griffith
Barry Gum
Kathleen Gunderson
Bev & Daniel Hadley
Gregg & Marcia Hafner
Bill Hahn
Richard & Sally Hall
Lawrence & Mary Anne
Halvorson
Beverly Hancock
Sandra Haney
Lori Hansen
Jenny Hanson
Bernie & Lynn Harrington
Carol & Chuck Hartman
Suzanne Henschel-Hansen
Ann Henson
Marita Herold
Georgia Hicks
Teresa Hill
Larry & Connie Hilzendeger
James Hodous
Cliff & Faye Holm
Robin & Andrea Horrell
Steve Howe
Donald & Patricia Hunter
Damon & Linda Huston
Doyce & Carol Hutson
Sharlene Inglis
Jean Jackson
Nina Jackson
Michael & Agnes Jelacie
Deani Jones
Kellie Jones
Dave & Deborah Jordan
JoAnn Jurica
Cynthia Karch
Raymond & JoAnn Kastner
Aiko Kawano
Robert & Ardyce Kelly
Kathy Keneally
Jeff & Cynthia Kessler
Tom & Moireen King
Douglas & Theresa Kirby
Robert & Ruby Klein
Sharon Klovstad
Irene Knowlen
Gary & Janice Koch
Rae Jean Koch
Kent Koolen
Aileen Kramer
Raymond & Donna Kuntz
Ken & Jo Lahm
Laura & Kerry Larson
Michael & Carol Lepore
Lecia & Philip Letz
Marchia Link
Edeen Linsky
Charles Loveridge
Susan Lubbers
Bill & Cathleen Lynch
Dan & Jeryl Macauley
Dale & Heide Mack
Linda Malloy
Kay Marker
Holly Marlenee
Sharon Mars
Deanna & Haven Marsh
George & Roberta Marsh
Lloyd Marsh
Veronica Marsich
Vernon & Sharon Martinz
Monte & Betty Mavity
Scott & Ann McCulloch
Nancy McGrade
Brian & Beverly McHugh
Ben & Celina McKee
Marissa McLaughlin
Patricia & Bruce McMorris
Valerie McMurtry
Norma Mekelburg
Lorli Mercer
Bodil Merchen
Ginny Mermel
Christopher Merrill
Roberta Meyers
Geneva Micheletti
Ray & Patricia Milam
Pauline Mishler
Pat Mitchell
Lisa Moline
Gerald & Lorna Thackeray
Moore
Marion Moore
Tim & Cindy Morgan
Teresa & Mark Morse
Delbert & Dina Moser
Bob & Becky Muller
Keith & Melody Myhre
Williams Nancy
Neal Nash
Richard Sr. & Joanne Nauman
Philip & Janet Ness
Gail Norman
Beverly Norstrum
Diana Notis
Phillip & Pamela Okrucky
Roger & Gerry Olmstead
Trish Olsen
Louise Olson
Brett Ouellette
Marlin & Muriel Overstreet
Timothy & Bobbie Owen
Par Montana, LLC
Mike Paterson
Jacqueline Payne
Jerry & Peggy Payton
Elizabeth Perius
Ken Peterson
Bruce & Bernice Phillips
Richard & Dorathy Pippin
Cheryle & Van Pittack
Ron & Rosemary Plumb
Barbara Pollari
Lorri Pool
Greg Pope
Preceptor Alpha Alpha
Barbara Prestrud
Arlene Priest
DeWayne & Renee Prinkki
Ted Proctor
Lynne Puckett
Blaine Purington
Erika Purington
Richard & Virginia Pylman
James & Jane Quass
Bobbie Rafferty
Dorothy Randall
Janyth Rasmussen
David & Kim Raynor
John Reamy
Kim Redding
Edward & Rita Reeve
Stephen & Janice Regimbal
Randy & Sharon Reiter
SUPPORTERS
Judy Restad
Robert & Laura Reyes
Patricia Reynolds
Joseph & Susan Rhodes
Ella Rider
Germaine Riesinger
Gayle Robson
Stephanie Romsa
Kristen Rose
Annie Rowe
Kathy Sabe
Aurlie Samsel
Cheryl Sandbak
Scheels All Sports, Inc
Kenneth Schell
Mary & Patrick Schelle
Steven & Joan Schey
David & Jean Schmittou
Robert & Glennine Schoen
Peggy Schottlaender
Wilma Schroeder
Beverly Schwabe
Kathryn Seal
Stephen & Katherine Shandera
Bob & Sandy Short
Jerry & Dianne Shumaker
Richard & Elizabeth Sieckman
Del Simon
Charles Simonson
Nancy Sinclair
Jo Anne & Kenneth Sipes
Robert Smeltzer
Barbara Smith
Shirley Smith
Thomas & Robin Smith
Sharon Soapes
Shirley Solem
Sons of Norway Jotunheimen
499
Chris & Janet Southworth
Jon & Madonna Stepanek
Stockman Bank
Susan Stoltenberg
Sherrill Sullins
Mona Sumner
Marla Lou Sump
Jodi Swanson
Carol & Thomas Swoboda
Vicki Tapia
Carole Tasker
Roy Thompson
Walter & Lisa Thoms
Howard & Joan Thullbery
Nicholas & LeAnne Tibesar
United Way Yellowstone
County
Nancy Venable
Frank & Paulette Wagner
Eugene & Cathy Wasia
Ruth Waterfall
Bill & Cheryl Watson
Amy Lea Weber
Mabel Weber
John & Connie Weiler
Hugh & Sandra Weiss
Janet Weisz
Bob & Peggy Wendorff
Ole & Carol Wentz
Sandy Western
Betty Wheeler
Marlene Wheeler
Charlie & Jeanne Widdicombe
Barbara & Kelly Wiedrich
Emilie Williams
Sharon Winnett
Russell & Kathleen Wiseman
Robert & Donna Witham
Laurie Wohler
Kathryn Work
Lorraine Yates
Elsa Zorn
Helen Zottnick
Florence Zundel
Memorials in Memory of Bowen
Joan Bowen
Hugh & Sandra Weiss
Josh Briese
Sherlene Robison-O’Dea
Harriet Bryan
Dixie Arnold
Richard Christensen
Christina Jull
Andy Hammerbeck
Timothy Downey
Trenay Allen Hart
Sherlene Robison-O’Dea
John Heinzman
Aubrey & Roxie Houchen
Ron Kangas
Betty Ann Gabel
Helmueth Leader
Ron & Patty Nordlund
Amy Wells
Jean Zankner
Paul & Kay Odegaard
Rita Cady
David Walker
Paul & Joyce Lorenz
Warren & Debra Sola
Paul & Joyce Lorenz
Christine Oviatt
Vernon Anderson
Keith & Jerilyn Dukart
Jeffrey Hopkins
Anita Renner
Amy Normile
Chuck Walter
Ruth Armstrong
Ken & Barbara Walter
Jere Wamsley
Sue & Tim Bailey
Tom & Anna Mae Hanel
Tom & Robin Hanel
OUR COMMUNITY
CELEBRATING OUR
It is with great joy that I get to share the section featuring Adult Resource Alliance’s meal site coordinators with you. Each of the featured ladies is an asset to Alliance and extra special to their respective meal site participants. I have had the pleasure of working with meal site coordinators and attending the different meal sites for the past 5+ years. I can honestly say that spending time with the people at each meal site is the highlight of my job. If you have not had the pleasure of sharing a meal at one of Alliance’s meal sites, I hope you will. You are missing out on spending time with some pretty wonderful people.
Mary Beth has been with Alliance for 16 years. When she first started, Alliance was serving meals at First Presbyterian Church. Not too long after, she made the big move to Ave. D when the Alliance opened there. Mary Beth enjoys the freedom her job allows her to use her imagination and creativity with decorations, special activities, participant games, and holidays. Her location is special to her because of the main kitchen, the headquarters of meals on wheels, and the constant business. However, the most important part of her job is the people… the participants, volunteers, staff, and others that come and go. When asked if she had any special stories or memories, she said there were too many to tell in this short section.
For all but seven years, Mary Beth has lived in Yellowstone County. Outside of work, Mary Beth likes to spend time helping to care for her grandson, spending time with her family, and serving her parish. She is fortunate to have a large part of her extended family here In Billings. Mary Beth and her husband (of 42 years) like to go to the theatre whenever they can.
When asked what she was looking forward to in 2025, she proudly exclaimed, “A new grandchild in the spring.” Congratulations!
MEAL SITE COORDINATORS
BILLINGS COMMUNITY CENTER
360 N. 23rd • Reservations: 406-259-9666 • Monday thru Friday at 12:00
Tina Ontiveros,
Billings Community Center Meal Site Coordinator
Tina has been with ARA for nine years. She enjoys working at the BCC meal site because there is always something happening. From her kitchen, she can see people coming and going for exercise, games, painting, computer time, bingo, and more! She is grateful for the seniors she gets to meet and the stories that they share with her. Knowing that she is helping them thrive by serving them a healthy meal is a favorite part of her job.
Yellowstone County has been Tina’s home for most of her life. She feels fortunate to have been able to travel to beautiful Iceland and looks forward to someday making it to Albuquerque for the Balloon Festival. Tina enjoys relaxing with a good book, sewing, doing puzzles, and playing with Kona, the family dog. She’s also pretty proud of the picture she painted when she recently participated in the Bob Ross painting class. Maybe she’s discovered a hidden talent!
HEIGHTS MEAL SITE
935 Lake Elmo Dr • Reservations: 406-606-1170 • Monday thru Friday at 11:45
Janlyn Babcock, ARA Heights Meal Site Coordinator
Janlyn has been with ARA for 14 years. She was there when we opened our Heights location 5 years ago. Janlyn loves her job! She enjoys feeding the people that come for lunch and listen to them talk, laugh, and share stories. The dining room always looks festive for holidays and is decorated for themes and seasons. She spoils her participants with special treats, not only for special occasions, but just because she likes to. Janlyn also likes to give kudos to the heights volunteers. She might be a little biased, but she brags that they are the best in town.
Janlyn has been in Yellowstone County for 15 years. If you didn’t already know, Janlyn is a true blooded Hawaiian. She was able to return to Hawaii in December for a visit. She is hoping to travel with her family to see Disney World one more time. Here in Montana, she likes to spend time gardening and go camping and fishing with her husband.
CUSTER
322 6th St. • Mondays and Thursdays at 12:00
Gail Knerr, Meal Site Coordinator and Cook at Custer
Gail has been with ARA for just over a year. She wasn’t in Custer too long when the position came open. Perfect timing for all of us! Gail really enjoys sharing her love of food with the wonderful community of Custer. The creativity she uses with menus and the dishes she serves is a bonus for those of us that enjoy a meal at the Custer Senior Center. Gail also credits the tight knit group in their small community for making her job so enjoyable.
Gail has been in Yellowstone County for less than two years. She moved to Custer in the spring of 2023. Gail enjoys spending time with her children (11 of them), grandchildren, and dog. Her family brings her great joy. She enjoys hiking, traveling, and hunting. She gets creative with specialty meats when she gets to be the butcher. Gail enjoys life and credits herself with being strong when the going seems to get tough.
HUNTLEY SENIOR CENTER
37 Minecha Avenue • Reservations: (406)698-6525 • 1st and 3rd Thursday at 12:00
Dona Kruse, Meal Site Coordinator for the Huntley Meal Site
Dona has been with Adult Resource Alliance, helping to serve the members of Huntley Seniors for 3 years. She enjoys crafting and has made some really neat gifts to help bring joy to the Huntley participants. Each Monday before their group meets, Dona calls each participant to see if they will be coming for lunch and to check in on them. She enjoys planning meals and activities that bring a smile to the people in her community.
Dona has lived in Yellowstone County for 75 years. She takes pride in her family, especially her beautiful and caring daughter. Dona is looking forward to taking an annual family trip. This year they are going to Ontario, Canada. Fortunately for Dona, she’s got a great group that will keep the meal site running smoothly while she takes an enjoyable break.
LAUREL SENIOR CENTER
720 South 4th Street • Reservations: 406-628-7571
Monday thru Friday at 12:00
Adrianne and Mary Sickle,
Meal Site Coordinators for Laurel Senior Center
Adrianne and Mary Sickle are our mother and daughter team in Laurel. Mary has been with Alliance the longest of all of the meal site coordinators at 39 years and Adrianne is our newest with just 3 months under her belt. Not only do they prepare meals and feed the participants at the meal site, but they also take care of the Meals on Wheels participants in the Laurel area.
Mary knows her way around the kitchen and does a great job of preparing delicious dishes. She also enjoys putting together the centerpieces for the meal site tables. When away from Laurel Sr. Center, Mary enjoys relaxing with cross stitch and spending time with her family. She has three daughters and a son, plus seven grandchildren to keep her busy Adrianne has been enjoying her time in the kitchen with her mom. She’s been learning the ropes and is a welcome addition to the Laurel meal site. Adrianne has really enjoyed getting to know the people at the center and knows most of them by name already. When she’s not working at the center, she is busy raising her daughters with her husband. Adrianne says that loading up the family, including the dog, and going on an adventure is a fun time for her. Speaking of an adventure, she will be taking a cruise this spring! One thing Mary and Adrianne both enjoy is getting to work together. They make a great team!
SHEPHERD MEAL SITE
5541 Haynes Road • Reservations: 406-696-1343 • Wednesday at 12:00
Maryann Morgenstern, Meal Site Coordinator for the Shepherd Meal Site
Maryann has been sharing her bubbly personality and contagious smiles with the Shepherd seniors for a few years now. She is grateful for the people she meets with every week; they are caring, helpful, and lift each other up. Maryann hopes that the folks that come together and share food together remember that it is the community and relationships that we make, renew, and even heal, that truly feed us.
A favorite memory of Maryann’s from the meal site is one from the White Elephant Christmas exchange party. One year a guy picked a box that had a really old hair dryer in it. It was the kind with a cap that you wore with a hose attached and hooked to a case with the dryer in it. He was so excited! He put the cap on his bald head and wore it for the rest of the party
Maryann has been in Yellowstone County for 22 years. She likes to learn new things. An interest Maryann has found is working with fiber. She knows how to spin yarn and now is learning to weave.
SOUTH PARK
901 S 30th St • Reservations: 406-256-6413 • Monday and Friday at 11:45
WEST END MEAL SITE
King of Glory Church • 4125 Grand Avenue
Reservations: 406-259-9666 • Tuesday and Thursday at 12:00 AND
Susan Eby, Meal Site Coordinator for the West End Meal Site at the King of Glory Church and the South Park Senior Citizen Center
Sue has been serving meals for seniors in Yellowstone County for almost three years. She spends Mondays and Fridays at the South Park meal site and Tuesdays and Thursdays at the West End meal site. As you can see from her picture from Halloween, Sue is fun and likes to make people laugh and smile. She enjoys her job and spending time with the seniors.
Sue was born here but left for a while. In 1999 she returned and plans to stay put. She appreciates Montana for its fishing and camping. She’s got family here and enjoys being able to spend time with them. Gardening is also a favorite activity of hers and she shares the fruits of her labor. She does a pretty good job of canning in the fall too.
WORDEN
VFW Hall • Main Street • Reservations: 406-880-6061 • Fridays at 12:00
Janet Euell, Meal Site Coordinator at Worden and the Meals on Wheels contact person for the Worden, Huntley, & Shepherd area
Janet has been with the Adult Resource Alliance for 3 years. She takes pride in making the Worden meal site a welcoming place to come. Worden is the only meal site that uses cloth tablecloths for every meal and each week is decorated with a new theme. When you arrive at the Worden meal site, you will find Janet at the front table checking everyone in and giving each person a warm welcome.
She has lived in Yellowstone County for 75 years. Outside of work, Janet teaches kindergarten at her church, watches birds, and works in her yard.
*MENU SUBJECT TO CHANGE. MILK AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST.
LAUREL TRANSPORTATION PROGRAM
Within Laurel: Mon-Fri• 10am-4pm Laurel to Billings: 1st & 3rd Tues Afternoons EVERYONE WELCOME! Call 406-628-4796 for Reservation
FEBRUARY 12TH
3-Day Annual SnowCoach Tour.
This is the ultimate winter in wonderland experience when you visit Yellowstone National Park, riding inside a heated comfortable coach moving easily and steadily through the snow.
$770/ppd; add $293 for single supplement. $200 Deposit to reserve a seat. Final payment due December 18, 2024. SOLD OUT!!!
APRIL 11TH
7-Day Cherry Blossom Time in our Nation’s Capital. Includes reserved grandstand seating to the National Cherry Blossom Parade, Tour Mount Vernon, Arlington National Cemetery & Changing of the Guard, Washington DC, including U.S. Capitol Visitor Center, FDR, Vietnam & Lincoln Memorials, and much more. $3349/ppd; add $1099 for single suppl.
MAY 10TH
Foodie & Backroads of Montana Day Tour.
From the comfort of a 55-passenger motorcoach, this is definitely a day to enjoy the country roads and experience alpaca ranch life, the windmill farm and a few surprises along the way.
$185/pp. $100 Deposit. Balance Due April 7, 2025.
JULY 11TH
2-Day Gates of the Mountain Cruise.
With dinner; attractions and highlights of places by the Helena area; one night lodging; 3 meals and more.
$475/ppd; add $119 for single. $100 Deposit to reserve, balance due May 15th.
AUGUST 22ND & 23RD
Overnight Mystery Tour!
$438/ppd; add $164 for single supplement.
$200 Deposit to reserve a seat. Balance due July 15, 2025.
SEPTEMBER
22ND
7-Day Rails & Sails of the Sierra Nevada.
Tour highlights: RT airfare, Narrated tour of San Francisco, including a bay cruise to see Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge, 2 nights in Lake Tahoe and lunch cruise on the Lake, and much more.
$3799/ppd; add $1229 for single supplement.
OCTOBER 10TH
6-Day Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, highlighting RT airfare, the mass ascension of the balloons and watch the spectacular display of colors over the whole city, visit the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, guided tour of Albuquerque including historic Old Town, spend 2 nights in Santa Fe, and much more.
$3349/ppd; add $1299 for single.
OCTOBER 24TH
11-Day the Ark Encounter & Creation Museum.
Includes motorcoach transportation, 10 nights lodging, 18 meals, admissions to both incredible attractions: The Ark Encounter and The Creation Museum, Riverboat sightseeing cruise and more.
$1666/ppd; add $424 for single. Final payment due 8/17/2025.
$75 Deposit to reserve seat. Limited number of seats.
NOVEMBER 30TH
9-Day Christmas Market Cruise on the Danube River.
Exceptional Inclusions such as Free Airfare + $200 OFF per person when booked by 12/31/2024! Call for the brochure asap, if you’re interested.
SEPTEMBER 2026
Lower Mississippi Cruise.
for your $11,000 donation from the Run Turkey Run event!
