Senior News June/July Edition 2021

SENIORNEWS

APRIL / MAY 2021

CONNECTIONS IN OUR MIDST

Mike& Tammy Larson 22 MIKE IS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF ARA

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THE POWER OF 1%

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LIFE’S OBSERVATIONS

IN-PERS

NEW TO M ON EDIC PRESENTA ARE TION RETUR NING IN A

PRIL ✔ Social D istanced ✔ Limited Seating

CALL 406-

259-5212

We will be CLOSED May 31st for Memorial Day

EXECUTIVE UPDATE One percent. That does not seem like much, does it? As I was preparing to write this article, I was trying to think of an example that would make sense to most people. One I came up with was skim or no fat milk. That was my solution to lower my fat intake and, Mike Larson hopefully, have a positive Executive Director impact on my cholesterol numbers. However, I did not enjoy that option, so I tried 1% milk. Totally different. I was able to accomplish my goal of reducing my fat intake, and still enjoy my morning milk and cereal. Bottom line, sometimes 1% can make a pretty significant difference.

Here is another example that most people may not know. Beginning in their 20’s, the average person loses 1% of their ability to perform physical exercise per year.

This is based on a measure of V02 max, or the ability to use oxygen to perform work. That is not a huge jump per year, but adds up to 10% per decade. By your 50’s or 60’s that can mean a loss of 30 to 40%! That is kind of depressing to think about, isn’t it? But, you can do

something about it!

There are three major factors that negatively impact people’s ability to perform physically. Smoking, weight gain, and a sedentary lifestyle. The good news is, you can do something about each one of these. If you smoke, quit. Watch that weight gain and find a form of physical exercise that is appropriate for you and that you enjoy. The sooner you start the better, but no matter what your age most of us can do something to have a positive impact. Remember, it is advised that you consult with your medical provider before starting an exercise program. This is particularly important if you have existing medical conditions. Done correctly, we should all be able to achieve a 1% improvement in our health as we strive for, and enjoy a more active lifestyle throughout our lifetime As we work towards “reopening” our programs here at the Adult Resource Alliance, we are excited about an upcoming partnership with the Billings Park and Recreation Dept. that will be offering a variety of options to help you get and stay active. We hope to be announcing a schedule of classes in the very near future. Please stay tuned.

DIGITAL NEWSLETTER! If we have your email address, you are now receiving the Senior News delivered to your email, as well as receiving the printed version.

If you would like to save a tree & only receive the digital version, please let us know at: srnews@allianceyc.org

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IN THIS Issue

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WELLNESS

CONNECTIONS

HEALTHY IS WELLNESS.........................5 FOR YOUR HEALTH................................6 A LEARNING OPPORTUNITY....................8 WALKING.............................................10

“KEEPING UP WITH YOU”......................19 ALLIANCE VOLUNTEER PROGRAM...........20 CONNECTIONS IN OUR MIDST.................22 LIFE'S OBSERVATIONS...........................24

WHAT'S COOKING

RESOURCES

SENIOR LUNCH PROGRAM.....................13 MENU - BILLINGS/LAUREL.....................14 & 15 BILLINGS MEALS ON WHEELS................16

RESOURCE CENTER...............................27 CAREGIVER SUPPORT...........................28 ALLIANCE SUPPORTERS........................30

OUR COMMUNITY MEALSITE UPDATES..............................33-36

CALL 259-9666 FOR OUR DAYS AND HOURS OF OPERATION www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance

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WELLNESS 4

APRIL / MAY 2021

HEALTHY IS WELLNESS

Healthy is Wellness Health Coach: Becky Ketterling, Certified Personal Trainer

THE Power OF 1% Meet Chris Nikic! This 21-year-old man made history as the first person with Down’s Syndrome to ever complete an Ironman triathlon!

He trained for over a year wearing a shirt emblazoned with the words ‘1% Better.’ Chris embraced Becky Ketterling Certified Personal Trainer, the idea that improving just a Health Coach small amount each and every Healthy Is Wellness, Inc. day would help him reach his goal. In November of last year, he conquered a 2.4-mile swim, followed by a 112-mile bike ride, and finished with a 26.2-mile marathon, completing the grueling Ironman in under 17 hours. Look what a difference thinking in terms of just ‘1% Better’ can make! What if we all approached life with this simple but powerful perspective?

Start with your goals. Training ourselves to embrace the 1% mindset may first involve re-thinking our goals. Most of us have something we really want to accomplish but we just can’t seem to get started. Take weight loss as an example. Wanting to lose 50 pounds, or even 20, can seem like an impossible task, and maybe that’s because the goal is just too big. But what if we looked deeper into WHY we want to lose weight? Maybe it’s the simple desire to play with our grandkids or to take a walk with our spouse or a friend. When our goals are more specific and meaningful, it allows us to measure success in a way that doesn’t focus on a single number on a scale.

So pick one of your goals and try to see it in a new way – look for the WHY behind your goal and appreciate the power of 1% progress.

Banish ‘all-or-nothing’ thinking! Setting overly difficult goals and measuring our success in all-or-nothing terms often leads to a feeling of failure. In fact, past experiences with this negative cycle can stop us from

doing anything at all. Embracing the power of 1% means that we only need to make small changes to enjoy a feeling of success! And this success is addictive: positive reinforcement helps us feel capable of continuing to be 1% better the next day and the next. Over time, layering our small successes builds powerful (and long-lasting) outcomes!

SET THINGS IN MOTION. So now that we

know that a 1% mindset allows us to achieve and enjoy success each and every day, here are some ideas to get you started:

1% KINDER: Be the bright spot in one person’s day. The simple act of smiling at someone stimulates a part of the brain that makes them feel rewarded, and even loved.

1% HEALTHIER: Eat a few more bites of vegetables or protein. Or practice ‘exercise snacking’ – move for just a few minutes more than you normally would.

1% CALMER: Begin your morning in a calm way

that helps to level out the highs and lows of your day.

Take a little time to breathe, think positive thoughts, and stretch your body.

1% HAPPIER: Watch for ‘micro-moments’ of

happiness, or tiny moments of good. They happen all the time! We just have to recognize when they occur and take time to absorb them.

If we change our minds, we can change our outcomes!

So be kind to yourself, celebrate small wins, and watch the layers of 1% add up to amazing results. In the words of motivational speaker and author Tony Robbins: “No matter how many mistakes you make or how slow you progress, you are still way ahead of everyone who isn't trying.” www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance

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FOR YOUR HEALTH HOSPICE SUPPORTS DIGNITY AND QUALITY OF LIFE Hospice is a type of healthcare focused on comfort. The goal is to support the best possible quality of life for people with terminal illnesses. With compassion and gentleness, hospice professionals strive to make each precious day

By Kim Brown, R.N. a little better by meeting RiverStone Health Clinic individualized needs for physical, mental and spiritual support.

RiverStone Health Hospice, based in Billings, serves people in Yellowstone County and surrounding areas.

Most of our patients receive our services in their own homes. We also work with persons in group settings, such as assisted living and nursing homes – whatever setting people call home.

While most people we serve are living at home, RiverStone Health Hospice also serves people near the end-of-life in the RiverStone Health Hospice Home. Our Hospice Home is the only accredited hospice facility in the region. Constructed to be as home-like as possible, it has 12 rooms, all with private bathrooms. A sunroom, patio and landscaped grounds offer pleasant outdoor views.

Meals are cooked and served from our kitchen in the large common living/dining area. Our staff members take time to learn patients’ food preferences and work to personalize meal options.

COVID-19 has required us to limit visitors, but we have worked hard to keep some visitation available while 6

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maintaining the safety of our patients. We look forward to a not-too-distant future when our family gathering places can be used by all again.

The RiverStone Health Hospice Home provides high quality care with nurses and certified home health aides onsite at all times. The nurses work with patients and their medical providers to ensure that medical needs are addressed. The aides and nurses help with personal care. We offer chaplains, social work, volunteer services and bereavement support for patients and their families.

All Hospice Home staff work to maintain patients’ comfort. This can be as simple as bringing someone heated blankets or extra pillows. It can be as intensive as providing 24/7 help with medicines, repositioning, bathing and feeding. It can also mean offering teaching and support to patients and their families.

There are three main reasons why a terminally-ill person might spend time at our Hospice Home. The first is respite. The person’s caregivers might need a short break or might have their own personal health issues to deal with. For respite, the patient would stay at the Hospice Home temporarily, then return to his or her own home.

The second reason is symptom management. If someone is struggling with severe pain, nausea or other uncontrolled discomfort, Hospice Home nurses can provide intensive, around-the-clock care. They can work closely with the person’s medical providers, adjusting medicines or other treatments until symptoms are controlled and the person is comfortable again.

The third reason is for skilled end-of-life care.

Sometimes a person needs more care than can be provided at home. Dying persons or their families may choose to have personal needs and medicines handled by others, so that loved ones can just focus on each other. In these situations, the Hospice Home can be a safe, supportive harbor.

We work exclusively with terminallyill persons. We offer a high level of knowledge and understanding about this phase of life that can reassure patients and families alike.

Many insurance plans cover a basic package of hospice services. However, the Hospice Home is not always included in this package. It may only be covered under certain circumstances or not at all. If someone is considering the Hospice Home, but worried about cost, RiverStone Health can help.

We can contact a patient’s insurer, if wanted, to find out specifically what is covered regarding the Hospice Home.

Our financial services personnel can determine if a patient qualifies for a sliding scale fee adjustment.

The goal of RiverStone Health Hospice, and RiverStone Health Hospice Home is always to support those we serve in ways that best promote their dignity, comfort and quality of life.

Kim Brown, R.N., nurse supervisor with RiverStone Health Hospice, can be reached at 406.651.6500. RiverStone Health Hospice Home is located at 2230 Mission Way in Billings.

Keeping residents safe is our way of life.

Heidi is our Quality Coordinator. For over 17 years she has provided expert care and services to Westpark Village residents.

2351 Solomon Avenue, Billings, MT 59102 | 406-652-4886 | westparksenior.com

www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance

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A LEARNING Opportunity!

Beginning in 2019, Rocky Mountain College welcomed their first group of students into their doctorate level Occupational Therapy Program. That group of students will be graduating in 2022. Hopefully, many of them will chose to stay in Montana, or in the region to establish their practice. As a rural or “frontier” region Montana and the surrounding States all struggle with providing access to critical medical services. The aim of the OT program at Rocky is to have positive impact on that challenge. One very important part of the curriculum is the field work experiences each student must complete. The objective is to expose students to a variety of venues where they can pursue their practice. The Adult Resource Alliance provides one option for students to complete their field work while gaining experience with a senior population. Through this option each student spends time with Adult Protective Services, Big Sky Senior Services, and the Adult Resource Alliance to gain an understanding of a variety of programs geared to seniors.

Amanda Bluhm Hello! My name is Amanda Bluhm and I am a student in the Occupational Therapy Doctorate Program at RMC. This program is fairly new, but I believe it is one of the best in the country! When I was working on my undergraduate degree, I had no idea that occupational therapy existed. I graduated in 2008 from Oregon State University and spent the following 10-ish years working as a caregiver for developmentally disabled adults in southwest Washington. I learned about OT from my sister, who is a social worker, and I knew instantly it was my calling. My future career is limited only by my ability to dream – and I’ve learned how to dream big! I love bridging gaps and using creativity to solve problems.

Ellie Lane My name is Ellie Lane and I am a student in the Rocky Mountain College OTD program. I grew up in Prosser, Washington and moved to Montana to pursue my bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences through Carroll College. While attending Carroll, I had the opportunity to care for a number of children and to further my already existing passion for early childhood development. Growing up I had the wonderful opportunity to witness the passion my mom brought to her job as an occupational therapist for children from birth to three years old and to see the wonderfully unique role occupational therapists play in early childhood development. Seeing my mom’s love not only for her job, but the unique, specific love she had for every child she encountered made me want to pursue a career that would help me find fulfillment in the same way while also increasing someone else’s opportunity for fulfillment. Once I’d made this major career decision and decided that I loved Montana, all that was left was to hope and pray that I could find an OT school in Montana. Lo and behold, I found Rocky Mountain College’s OTD program and knew immediately it was the perfect foundation on which to build a fulfilling career.

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Nina Leacock I am Nina Leacock. I was born in Thailand and have lived all over the world. When people ask me where I am from, it’s hard for me to answer! My undergraduate degree is in Psychology from the University of Alaska Anchorage. I chose occupational therapy because of its holistic approach to caring for people. I feel that there is a lack of true compassion and care in the world, so I chose a career where I felt I could make a difference and show others that there is hope in this world. I look forward to working with and learning from the Billings community!

Lisa Semansky

Kayln Robertshaw

My name is Lisa Semansky, and I'm proud to be from the Pacific Northwest! I love to hike outside with my family and friends and enjoy how the challenge of climbing mountains positively impacts my abilities and personal growth. My interest in occupational therapy grew from my exposure to adaptive sports and outdoor recreation. Watching people of all abilities enjoy the outdoors led me to believe that every person has the right to engage in occupations that are meaningful to them. Some of my current occupational therapy interests are early intervention, maternal and infant health, and neurorehabilitation. As a future occupational therapist, I hope to use my encouraging and positive personality to motivate my clients to climb their own mountains figuratively and literally.

My name is Kayln Robertshaw and I am a graduate student in the Rocky Mountain College Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program. I am from the east (Maryland) but fell in love with the west and decided to make the jump out here for graduate school.

Occupational therapy (OT) is a holistic approach to healthcare that addresses all health aspects of a person: physical, emotional, social, spiritual and mental and includes everyday activities that individuals deem valuable and important in their life.

I look forward to furthering my education in the Rocky Mountain College Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program and gaining fieldwork experience in the Billings community.

www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance

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Walking

By Ed Kemmick

Two years ago, after rotator cuff surgery, when almost all other forms of exercise were temporarily impossible, I took up regular walking for the first time in my life. A year later, when the Covid-19 pandemic descended on all of us, I had even more reason to keep walking.

I’m not here to tell you what you already know, that walking is one of the best forms of exercise there is, that it increases your strength and agility and that it’s good for your heart. And there really is no downside to walking.

As an amateur sports enthusiast who has managed to damage both wrists, both shoulders, a knee, an ankle and an elbow over the years, I am grateful for that.

What you may not know is that walking can also be good for your mind, your disposition, your general sense of happiness. The Danish philosopher Soren Kierkegaard hit on the dual benefits of walking when he said, “every day I walk myself into a state of well-being and walk away from every illness.”

If you need inspiration to begin and to continue walking, I recommend setting yourself a goal. That may be as simple as committing to walk 10,000 steps a day, or

My constant walking companion has been Xavi, a cocker spaniel-black lab mix (as far as we know), seen here on a North Side street just under the Rims.

three or four miles every other day, or whatever you’re comfortable with.

There are so many beautiful old cars to be seen when you’re out walking, some of which are still running, while others appear to be rotting into the ground.

Once I began walking regularly, I set myself a different kind of goal, which was to become more familiar with Billings. It is a never-ending inspiration. Every new thing I discover on my walks makes me want to discover something else, so that I look forward to my outings as a chance to stretch my legs and nourish my brain.

I used to bicycle all over town, and as a Gazette reporter for almost 20 years I visited every corner of Billings. But it wasn’t until these past two years of walking that I felt I had really begun to know this city.

It is only while walking that you’re moving slowly enough to appreciate your surroundings, to focus in on things that you might not have noticed when you zip by in a car or perched on a bicycle.

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Because I live downtown, I initially spent a lot of time walking on the South Side, not just the oldest part of it in the vicinity of South Park, but basically the whole swath of town between South 27th Street and South Billings Boulevard, from I-90 to First Avenue South. I think I got hooked on those walks because so much of the area, from the size and style of the houses to the quirky individuality of yard ornaments, reminded me of the small town in Minnesota where I grew up.

It helped that, on a lark, I started posting on Facebook photos of oddball discoveries spotted on my walks—a frightening doll strapped like a scarecrow to a fence, an actual pay phone attached to a tree stump, and no end of antique cars, some in mint condition and some slowly sinking into the ground.

I was carrying my smartphone anyway, mostly to record my mileage, and I wasn’t aiming to create works of art, just simple snapshots of interesting finds. Once I had begun, I felt each walk had to yield at least one photo, which meant that I was paying even closer attention to my surroundings, and also meant that I had another goal.

Even at that rate, though, I found myself wanting to see new parts of town. And so we — I was accompanied by my wife, Lisa, on occasion and by my dog, Xavi, virtually every time — walked all over the downtown, too, and all over the North Side, with occasional forays to the Poet Streets, the Tree Streets, the far West End, the CentralTerry neighborhood and various corners of the Heights.

This photo looked to me like a movie pitch: “Angels in Bathtubs Behind Bars.”

This creepy doll was attached to a fence post in front of a South Side house.

There were many other walks along the river at Mystic, Two Moon, Coulson and Riverfront parks, numerous trips to Norm’s Island and to trails on the slopes and on top of the Rims, including the Four Dances Natural Area.

If any of the preceding place names don’t ring a bell, you’ve got some exploring to do.

In a way that’s difficult to describe, getting to know Billings on all these walks, paying attention to the character of neighborhoods, and seeing how they changed from season to season, rarely failed to clear my mind and lighten my mood. If my walks had that effect in 2020, in many ways so awful and sad a year, imagine what walking would do for you in a “normal” year.

Take it from me — and from Xavi and Soren Kierkegaard: if you start walking, you’ll find it hard to stop. www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance 11

WHAT'S COOKING 12

APRIL / MAY 2021

SENIOR LUNCH PROGRAM It has been a challenging year with Covid-19. We are seeing many more of our seniors ordering both frozen and hot take-out meals. AND NOW, dine-in is restarting at our 1505 Avenue D location!

The Adult Resource Alliance will begin a staggered re-opening of Yellowstone County meal sites in in order to have staff support at each location. To meet the guidelines received from the Environmental Health Services, we will stay in Phase One for some time to keep meal sites as safe as possible. We want you to feel safe coming back for meals and will have many guidelines in place to meet the Phase One requirements.

The re-opening plans contain public safety requirements such as social distancing, health screening, temperature checks, enhanced cleaning and sanitizing, and many meal service requirements.

For more information on a meal site opening near you, please see our website, Facebook page, or call 2599666 for more information.

We look forward to seeing you as we move forward and reopen the Senior Dinner Program in Yellowstone County.

EVERYDAY is a chance to be BETTER

Home Helpers is Taking Care of the Greatest Generation....Yours.

You & your family deserve the best home care. From a few hours to 24/7 care, we’re there when and where you need us!

• Light Housekeeping • Laundry • Grocery Shopping • Meal Preparation • Errand Services • Prescription Pick-Up • Escort To & From Doctors • Much More!

Gardeners’ Market Thursdays l 4:30-6:30pm June 10 – October 7

at South Park South 28th Street & 7th Avenue South

Do you have a backyard garden?

Vendors needed to sell locally grown produce and eggs.

No fee or long-term commitment.

Free Informational Meetings

406-697-4954 www.HomeHelpersHomeCare.com/Billings

at the end of May

Each office is independently owned & operated.

Learn more: 406.651.6444 I www.hbdyc.org I

HBDYellowstone

www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance 13

APRIL MENU

BILLINGS & LAUREL

MEAL SITES

BILLINGS & LAUREL

MEALS ON WHEELS Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Starting on April 5th, our 1505 Ave D meal site will be open from 11:00-12:30 Monday through Friday.

Reserve your meal by noon the day before.

Call 259-9666

Thursday

Friday

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BBQ Rib Au Gratin Potatoes Brussels Sprouts Mixed fruit

Lemon Dill Cod w/ Tartar Sauce Caesar Salad Wild Rice Stewed Tomatoes Creaser Salad Cherry Crisp

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Smothered Burrito Salsa & Sour Cream Spanish Rice Fruit Cookie

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Ham & Beans Soup w/ Crackers Egg Salad Sandwich Clementine Orange Blonde Brownie

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Turkey Ala King Biscuit Diced Beets Fruit Cookie

Bacon Cheeseburger Wedged Fries Apple Ice Cream Sandwich

Spaghetti w/ Meat Sauce Garlic Bread Green Beans Tossed Salad w/ Beans Rosy Pears Beef & Mushrooms over Mashed Potatoes Green Beans Ice Cream

Pork Chow Mein White Rice Egg Roll Apricots Banana Pudding w/ Wafers

Taco Salad w/ Lettuce, Tomato, Cheese, Salsa & Sour Cream Dorito’s Apricots Carmelita Bar

Sweet & Sour Chicken w/ Rice Asian Blend Veg. Chinese Cashew Salad Cookie

White Chicken Chili w/ Tortilla Strips, Cheese, Sour Cream Corn Bread Tom/Cuke Salad Mexican Wedding Cake

BBQ Pork Sand.

Buttered Corn Coleslaw Fruit

Cheeseburger Casserole Buttered Corn Tomato Spoon Salad.

Peach Cobbler

Chicken Cordon Bleu w/ Hollandaise Garlic Parmesan Potatoes Sunshine Carrots Ambrosia Salad Strawberry Shortcake Turkey Supreme Country Trio Veg. Cranberries Confetti Salad Raspberry-Applesauce Jell-O Cheesy Ham & Hash Brown Casserole Tomato Wedges Mixed Fruit Cinnamon Roll

Polish & Broccoli Alfredo w/ Noodles Capri Vegetable Spinach Salad Fruit

Fish & Chips w/ Tartar Sauce Creamy Coleslaw Fruit

Shepherd’s Pie Harvard Beets Peaches Ice Cream

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Swedish Meatballs w/ Gravy Mashed Potatoes Vegetable Fruit Banana Bread Pudding Roasted Pork w/ Gravy Stuffing Carrot Coins Cinnamon -Applesauce Avalanche Crispy Bar

Chicken Cacciatore Rice Pilaf Steamed Broccoli Topical Slaw Jell-O Cake Baked Chicken Loaded Mashed Potatoes Green Beans Carrot Apple Salad Choc. Mocha -Crunch Bar

Alliance, BCC, & Meals On Wheels ����������������������259-9666

South Side Senior Center...................................... 256-6413

Billings Heights Meal Site..................................... 606-1170

Laurel Senior Center............................................628-7571

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Nutrition Program Director: Lorri

MAY MENU

Cooks: Jami, Kathy, Mary, Winter & Jake

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Starting on April 5th, our 1505 Ave D meal site will be open from 11:00-12:30 Monday through Friday.

Reserve your meal by noon the day before.

Call 259-9666

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Friday

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Chicken Parmesan w/ Noodles Green Beans Fruit Cookie

Shredded Pork in Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes Harvard Beets Sliced Peaches

Chinese Veggie Steak over Rice Egg Roll Asian Slaw Tapioca Pudding

Country Fried Steak w/ Gravy Mashed Potatoes Sunshine Carrots Fruit

Sorry we're

CLOSED for Memorial Day

Scallop Potatoes w/ Ham Peas & Carrots Peaches Chocolate Brownie

French Dip w/ Au Jus Chips Pea and Cheese Salad Turtle Bar

Ham Salad on a Croissant Spaghetti Salad Fruit Butterscotch Bar

Fish & Chips w/ Tartar Sauce Buttered Peas Creamy Coleslaw Lemon Pudding

Mac & Cheese w/ Ham Steamed Broccoli Mixed Fruit Chocolate Pudding w/ Topping

Cheeseburger w/ Pickles & Onion Baked Beans Potato Salad Strawberry Ice Cream

Taco Salad w/ Lettuce, Cheese, Tomato, Salsa & Sour Cream Doritos Apricots Margarita Cake

Beef Enchilada Refried Beans Tom & Cucumber Salad Banana

Bacon Hash Brown Casserole Tomato Wedges Tropical Fruit Frosted Cinnamon Roll

Baked Chicken Au Gratin Potatoes Key West Veg. Rice Krispy Treat

Mexican Goulash Buttered Peas Breadstick Fruit Cookie

Biscuit w/ Sausage Gravy Boiled Egg Cinnamon Apples Yogurt w/ Granola Orange Wedge

Turkey Roast w/ Gravy Stuffing BBQ Green Beans Pumpkin Bar

Chicken & Dumplings Vegetable Tossed Salad w/ Beans Fruit

Chicken Cordon Bleu w/Hollandaise Fingerling Potatoes w/Butter and SC Steamed Carrots Cranberry Pecan-Slaw Cherry Poke Cake Garlic Butter Baked Salmon Rice Pilaf Carrot Coins Broccoli Salad Fruit Cocktail Torte

Chicken Breast w/ Rosemary Gravy Wild Rice Green Beans Winter Fruit Salad Creamy Crunchy BBQ Glazed Meatloaf Baby Potatoes Brussel Sprouts Ambrosia Salad Peach Crisp

Salisbury Steak w/ Gravy Mashed Potatoes Vegetable Fruit Cocktail Applesauce Cake

MEAL SITE RESERVATIONS must be made by Noon, at least 1 business day in advance. ☛ A requested donation of $4.00 per meal for adults 60 and above.

☛ Menu is subject to change

☛ Under 60 charge is $6.00.

☛ GF = GLUTEN FREE www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance 15

BILLINGS MEALS ON WHEELS MOW Coordinator: Jaime • MOW Assistant: Stacy • 1505 Avenue D • 259-9666

BIG THANK YOU

TO THE MASTER GARDNER’S ASSOCIATION & HOME DEPOT

These special folks, led by our own Meals on Wheels driver, Rayanne Schuler (and husband Bob) asked if they could plant tulip bulbs donated by Home Depot for all of the Meals on Wheels participants. They were delivered the week of Feb. 1st, just before the cold weather made its appearance! This gift (at such a perfect time of year) meant so much as it was met with big smiles, a tear or two, and many phone calls of thanks.

APRIL FOOL’S DAY

Do you have a favorite prank that comes to mind?

While I was visiting my daughter and family in California recently I took a drink of my iced tea and thought it tasted off. Later in the day, I noticed what looked like salt all over the counter. The next day I mentioned to my daughter that I needed something different to drink as my tea just wasn’t tasting as good as it used to. She 16

APRIL / MAY 2021

then told me that my 6-year-old granddaughter, Addie plays little tricks like that randomly. She doesn’t wait for April Fool’s Day, or even tells anyone that they have been pranked! Kids!!!

MAY DAY What does May Day mean to you? I remember picking dandelions and putting them in a paper cone, hanging them on the door, and then ringing the doorbell to see my mom come to the door.

The May 1st holiday in medieval and modern Europe was for celebrating the return of spring. On May 1, 1886, more than 300,000 workers in 13,000 businesses across the United States walked off their jobs in the first May Day celebration in US history. This demonstration helped in establishing the 8-hour work day.

For each of our MOW participants, a special May Day surprise is in the works! Our past Executive Director, Bea Ann Melichar and her lovely daughter have something up their sleeves to bring some special joy this year!

Adult Resource Alliance’s Meals on Wheels Program (MOW) offers a hot nutritious meal, delivered Monday through Friday by volunteers. MOW qualifications include:

✓O ver 60 years of age ✓ Lives alone or with someone who is unable to cook 1 healthy meal per day ✓N ot driving and unable to take a cab or bus to a meal site for a healthy meal ✓H aving health issues or are unable to cook a healthy meal for self

REMINDERS Please remember to use the Emergency Food Boxes after May 1st if we have not called you to use them by then! These items will not last from year to year.

Please save your Senior News for the menus and as a reminder of the dates we are closed.

We at Meals on Wheels wish you a wonderful spring!

1% BETTER Have you ever tried to set a “New Year’s Resolution” or goal to diet, exercise or stop a bad habit? I don’t do that anymore as I know how many times I have attempted such resolutions without success. Recently I was challenged to just try to do 1% better each day!

Now, that just might work. Here’s to 1% better, in so many different areas!

www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance 17

CONNECTIONS 18

APRIL / MAY 2021

“KEEPING UP WITH YOU” ACTIVITIES

Ages 60 and Better!

Better !

For More Info Call 406-294-1588

ZUMBA GOLD

Dance to the beat of Latin-inspired tunes. Low and high intensity periods of movement will strengthen and tone your legs and glutes, and improve your heart health. Class is suited for active adults including beginners.

Instructor: Jennifer Brown

GENTLE YOGA

Slow paced, relaxing practice that includes moving the limbs and torso in a comfortable way. Great for those new to yoga.

Instructor: Tania Stevens-Klein Activity #

8517-E

Start Date

April 27, 2021

Time

Tuesdays; 1:00-1:45pm

# Sessions-9

4/27/21-6/15/21

Fee

$45 Resident $55 for Non-Resident

$20 Resident $30 for Non-Resident

Location

Location

Billings Community and Senior Center

Billings Community and Senior Center

Call to Register

406-657-3050

Call to Register

406-657-3050

Activity #

8526-A

Start Date

April 8, 2021

Time

Tuesday and Thursday; 5:306:30pm

# Sessions-16

04/8/21 – 6/1/21

Fee

SIT AND GET FIT

Sit and Get Fit uses different seated fitness programming which focuses on low impact exercises done from a chair.

Instruction is focused on empowering all ages and stages to participate in safe and effective exercise.

CHAIR YOGA

Achieve harmony as you relax and gain confidence from a seated position. Develop strength and balance as you slowly stretch muscles, improve circulation and reduce stress.

Instructor: Bess Lovec Activity #

8512-A

8547-A

Start Date

April 19, 2021

Start Date

April 8, 2021

Time

Mondays; 1:00-2:00pm

Time

Tuesday and Thursday; 12:301:00pm

# Sessions-8

4/19/21-6/14/21 (No class 5/31)

# Sessions-16

4/8/21 – 6/1/21

Fee

$25 Resident $35 for Non-Resident

Fee

$16 Resident $26 for Non-Resident

Location

Billings Community and Senior Center

Location

Billings Community and Senior Center

Call to Register 406-657-3050

Call to Register

406-657-3050

Instructor: Jennifer Brown Activity #

➥ Pandemic protocol includes temperature screening, face coverings (upon entry only for fitness and wellness classes), physical-distancing and sanitizing precautions.

NOTE: Class is also offered for 45 minutes on Tuesdays. For schedule and cost call 657-3050.

Other KUWY Activities are postponed until further notice. www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance 19

Visit Yellowstone Art Museum & Tippest Rise Art Center Virtually GO TO ADULT RESOURCE ALLIANCE

FACBOOK PAGE TO ACCESS TOUR LINK! /AdultResourceAlliance

Kitrina Marcroft, Siemans Creek #2, 2020, acrylic on panel

Tippet Rise Art Center is a sculpture

Yellowstone Art Museum

What a Wonderful World

➡ Kitrina Marcroft’s Siemens Creek #2

park, classical music venue, and working ranch located outside of Fishtail, Montana.

In the spring of 2019, the wonderful piano duo, Anderson and Roe, traveled from their homes in California to record a series of videos outdoors at Tippet Rise, surrounded by Montana’s beautiful landscape. In this video, the duo plays a beloved song that we imagine many of you will recognize.

Tippet Rise from the Sky

Please join us on a cinematic journey to Tippet Rise Art Center. With sweeping footage taken from the sky, this film reveals the landscape and land art at Tippet Rise.

Join us as we tour two paintings that are reminiscent of spring. is an acrylic painting on panel created in 2020.

➡G ennie DeWeese’s Blue Jay was

created with paint stick on paper in 1987.

➡W atercolor Demo YAM Art Educator, Carrie

Goe will show you some techniques for using watercolor to create a bird searching for food on a snowy spring day.

Yellowstone Valley Audubon Society Enjoy, learn about and appreciate birds and the natural world.

Spring is the great time to get outdoors and go birding. Many species of birds arrive in Montana in early spring to find mates and nesting sites, and to take advantage of the abundant insects, seeds and longer days that warm seasons supply.

Montana’s birds and birders are looking forward to spring. YVAS continues to take Covid safety seriously and yet encourages individuals and socially distanced groups to get outside, recreate, and bird. Binoculars, a good field guide, and you are ready for action. To help facilitate such activities YVAS has local and regional “Birding Hot Spot Maps” available at yvaudubon.org .

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APRIL / MAY 2021

AVP VOLUNTEER PROGRAM Program Director: Pam • Volunteer Coordinator: Vicki • 406-245-6177

Thanku...

Yo

With appreciation and multitudes of thanks to DiA Events for allowing us to use their electronic temperature and health screening stations at ARA locations.

APRIL 18-24 • NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK Celebrating here Celebrating in our hearts Celebrating your giving Even though we’re apart.

Appreciating you In a troubled year Knows no bounds We hold your generous spirit dear.

When it’s safe Well get together Well laugh and hug And celebrate you—our real treasures.

— Anonymous

Toss Some Confetti and Celebrate!

“I walk slowly, but I never walk backward.”

— Abraham Lincoln AVP supports the slow and safe return to volunteer engagement within our community. Please call the AVP office to update your volunteer activity or to inquire about new volunteer opportunities.

Giving it Their All 2021 AARP Tax-Aide volunteers achieved great outcomes for taxpayers again this year! The power of being knowledgeable, personable, patient and encouraging is most certainly characteristic of this generous group of individuals…especially given the arduous changes that were necessary to assure individual safety due to the pandemic.

The season opened with tax facilitators making appointments and providing instruction on the newly overhauled Covid-19 practices. This year two appointments were required of each taxpayer. An individual’s tax information was scanned in advance of being prepared. Once completed, the individual returned to review the return with hope of celebrating a refund. www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance 21

Connections IN OUR MIDST A SERIES OF ARTICLES ON PEOPLE, PLACES AND PERSEVERANCE IN YELLOWSTONE COUNTY Written by Judy Hughes

polio and the doctors advised my parents to put him in an institution. Instead, my dad and mom worked with him every day doing what is now referred to as Passive Motion Exercises. The rest of the family helped by making him laugh, taking his mind off the work my parents were doing. He eventually walked and lived a pretty normal life.

YOU HAVE HAD SOME PRETTY SERIOUS HEALTH CHALLENGES IN YOUR OWN LIFE. THEY DON’T SEEM TO KEEP YOU DOWN FOR LONG. HOW ARE YOU ABLE TO DO THAT? Oh, believe me, I get down, but I try not to stay there.

One day I remember… chemo was dripping into my arm, I was feeling so sick and so tired I wanted to just give up.

I woke up the next morning and realized I had a do-over.

We all have do-overs every single day we wake up. I decided that day that my disease was not going to define me. I had a lot more to do and I was going to do it!

Bev Thorn comes to the Alliance on

a regular basis. She is one of those people you just want to hang out with. Kindness and compassion seem to define her. Even her cute little orange car with its eyelashes looks happy.

BEV, YOU ALWAYS SEEM SO UPBEAT. HOW DO YOU DO THAT? I think I am who I am because of my parents. We had a good life, but not a perfect one. Growing up we always felt listened to, encouraged and loved. My brother had 22

APRIL / MAY 2021

SO, WHAT ARE YOU DOING WITH YOUR DO-OVER BEV? WHAT ARE YOUR PRIORITIES? I am my husband’s caretaker. This takes love which is easy, but also patience and compassion which some days are more of a challenge. To be the best person for him, I need to take care of myself as well. I am working on that by developing new interests like painting, writing, even a little home maintenance! I try and learn something new every day. , I believe this helps me be 1% better each and every day.

Bev adds joy and a bit of sparkle wherever she goes. We can all use more of that in our world.

Tamara Larson, wife of Mike

Larson, Executive Director of the Adult Resource Alliance was in a devastating bicycle accident on April 21, 2020.

Her journey back, though definitely not complete, has been remarkable.

MIKE, WHAT HAPPENED THAT EVENING? We were riding our bikes on the road in front of the VA hospital when a piece of Tammy’s fender came off and lodged in the spoke of the front wheel catapulting her off the front of the bike. When I got to her, she was not conscious or breathing. We found out later that among other injuries, she had suffered a fracture of a vertebrae in her neck, sometimes referred to as a “Hangman Fracture”. A number of the medical staff at the VA Clinic were getting off shift and witnessed the accident. Within minutes they were on the scene and provided life saving care as we were waiting for the ambulance to arrive.

After her surgery and two weeks in intensive care at Billing Clinic, Tami was transferred to the Craig Institute in Colorado for Rehabilitation, where for four months she worked hard to re-learn skills as well navigate her new life.

TAMI, WE HAVE ALL HEARD THAT EVERY OBSTACLE IN LIFE IS A LESSON. WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THAT? When I was in that hospital bed, not able to talk, move or breath on my own, I wasn’t sure I was going to make it.

I believe there was a reason my life was spared. I have a responsibility to make that matter, to give back. This is something I take very seriously.

WHAT ROLE HAS YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS PLAYED IN YOUR RECOVERY? They are everything. Mike, my kids, my grandchild, and friends are the reason I’m here, the reason I fought to stay here. Kim Reeves is my caretaker. She pushes me, and makes me laugh every day. My goal is to not need her as a caretaker, but to have her in my life as a friend. I

also have had great support in my recovery from Jill and Laura, my OT and PT providers at Billings Clinic West, who have encouraged and pushed me to recover. While at Craig I formed a close relationship with a wonderful woman from Colorado, Jan, who had a similar injury.

We are both at home now, but we talk once a week to compare notes. We are both competitive, and we are always trying to “win” in our recoveries.

HOW IS YOUR RECOVERY GOING? Honestly, some days it is hard for me to see progress.

However, looking at the photos taken at the Craig Institute and knowing what I am capable of now, well, it is motivating. I am taking things one day at a time, one step at a time.

Tammy, your heart and determination are an inspiration to everyone you meet. www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance 23

LIFE’S Observations…

Our editor, Judy, has been selecting a theme for the regular contributors to this little missal that shows up in your mailbox on a bimonthly basis now. It's a good idea that provides a bit of cohesiveness to the words shared from around the County through this medium. If you have an idea for future themes, I believe

By David Mosdal she would gladly consider Guest Columnist new suggestions, though we haven't spoken about MY ideas for HER time, so be gentle.

The theme for this issue is the “One Percenters”: people like Chris Nikic who is an amateur triathlete with Down Syndrome. Chris trains with people who inspire him to be the best he can be and to improve by

becoming 1% better than his previous goal. Just last year he became the first person with Down Syndrome to finish an Ironman Triathlon. That's not an easy endeavor for the most capable among us. What an inspiration to people at any station in life. Go Chris!

So who do we know locally with similar kinds of super powers? Here's one: I want to tell you about Virginia, a ninety-six year old woman who still goes to work every day because she can. Virginia has done many things in her life, but since retiring as a Washington, DC lobbyist at age 65 she hired on with a local homeless shelter to help generate the cash necessary to keep the doors open and help the people who just need a leg up to a better life.

She has taken on the unglamorous task of sorting through the piles and boxes of donated “stuff” that comes in the back door of the thrift store. The bulk of this stuff, that We the People generally donate to thrift stores, is the result of our collective efforts to clean up our camp.

Maybe it's just a righteous spring cleaning or perhaps it's a more thorough downsizing of a home in preparation for transitioning to some form of assisted living or even specialized care. Ultimately it's what a family does after Grandma has died and the family treasures have been parsed out and the dust has settled after the estate sale.

In these leftovers, Virginia knows that there are occasional treasures hidden in plain sight. It may be an antique figurine or a collectible household item. It could be an original work of art of some regional significance or a cast off toy from long ago that someone is willing to pay a fair market value to own. When these things come along, Virginia consults with her cadre of appraisers to move the items into the proper venue to bring the best price. It's a win/win for everyone involved and lives are made better in the process.

Virginia knows she won't live forever, but she has inspired enough others along the way that this work will continue into the future and lives will be changed for the better, like the drug addicted, skid row former doctor who was able to return to practice after meeting Virginia. But that's another story...

Be safe. Find the good in the world around you.

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APRIL / MAY 2021

HOME HEALTH & HOSPICE

AN EMOTIONAL DECISION

MADE EASIER • Support for all family members • Top satisfaction ratings in area • High staff–to–patient ratio • No waiting list; no referral needed

LEARN MORE (406) 655–5800 THE END OF LIFE CARE WE ALL HOPE FOR

WWW.STJOHNSUNITED.ORG

HOME HEALTH & HOSPICE www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance 25

RESOURCES 26

APRIL / MAY 2021

THE RESOURCE CENTER

Program Manager: Sue • Caregiver Support Coordinator: Emily • Specialists: Joyce & Marla • Intake Specialist: Nancy For more information, please call 259-5212

MISSING STIMULUS PAYMENTS & SIMPLER SENIOR TAX FORM 1040-SR In 2018, a bipartisan act of Congress created the 1040SR tax form. If you are 65 years or older you can use this simple shorter form to complete your taxes. Using a larger font and bigger text boxes makes it easier than ever to file your taxes for 2020.

The US Government has had 2 stimulus payments since March 2020. In Spring 2020, most folks would have gotten a $1200 per person payment. Then, starting in late December 2020, another $600 stimulus payment was distributed. Most folks have gotten their stimulus payments already by automatic deposit to their bank account, a check in the mail or an EIP VISA Debit

card by mail. If you feel you failed to get these stimulus payments, you can file 2020 taxes to have it returned as a tax recovery rebate credit – line 30 on 1040-SR form.

Even if you don’t regularly file taxes because your income is only Social Security, you can file taxes for 2020 just to get the missing stimulus payment.

You can get to the simplified 1040-SR form at https:// www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-1040-sr or you can call the Resource Center at 259-5212 to have the form and instructions mailed to you. The Resource Center staff are not able to assist you in completing this form.

WHAT IS A MONTANA MEDICAL CARE SAVING ACCOUNT?

WHAT IS A SECURITY FREEZE??

A Montana Medical Care Savings Account (MSA) allows Montanans to save money for medical expenses and longterm health care, and reduce their state income taxes at the same time. Any Montana resident taxpayer can designate any Montana bank or credit union account as a Medical Care Savings Account. A MSA account must be separate from other accounts and only the account holder has access to the funds. In 2020, each taxpayer could place up to $4000 in the account annually. This amount and any interest earned on this amount is state tax free. Medical expenses like Medicare Part B premiums, Medicare Supplement premiums, Medicare Part D premiums, deductibles and copays, dental expenses, longterm care expenses, eyeglasses and hearing aids are eligible for reimbursement from an MSA. And unlike Employer Flex accounts, any money remaining in the account at the end of the year is carried over into the new year and continues to earn tax free interest. For more information contact The Resource Center at 259-5212 or see a MontGuide on the topic at https://store. msuextension.org/publications/FamilyFinancialManagement/ MT199817HR.pdf.

A security freeze is one of the most effective ways to prevent identity theft. A security freeze allows consumers to proactively "lock up" their credit information so no one can access it without their permission. This prevents a thief from falsely using someone else's identity to take out a new mortgage, apply for a credit card or get financing. The freeze is easily lifted if consumer plans to make a major purchase, open a new credit card or take out a loan. There is a small charge for this service. For more information contact Department of Justice— Consumer Protection at (800) 481-6896 or at https://dojmt.gov/consumer/identity-theft/.

www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance 27

CAREGIVER SUPPORT PROGRAM Emily, Caregiver Coordinator 259-5212

T H E F O L L O W I N G A RT I C L E WA S TA K E N F R O M M I N D F U L.O R G:

Caring for Yourself

WHILE CARING FOR ANOTHER

THREE UNHELPFUL HABITS TO WATCH OUT FOR WHEN YOU’RE TAKING CARE OF A LOVED ONE, AND THREE WAYS TO OVERCOME THEM WITH MINDFULNESS.

Lisa, whom I had just met at a conference, tearfully described to me her agony as sole caregiver for her disabled husband for 33 years. As I listened, her pain made me think of the burden that 34 million Americans caring for loved ones with dementia, disabilities, and other enduring illnesses carry. Most caregivers report significant stress, and that’s certainly consistent with my experience over the last seven years serving as the chief caregiver for my wife, Susan, who has Alzheimer’s.

The stress of caregiving is hard to bear. It leaves many of us heartbroken, overwhelmed, disoriented, and feeling inadequate. Even more sobering is the fact that this intense stress can spiral downward into burnout, marked by utter exhaustion, social isolation, despair— even hypertension, heart attacks, and death.

“Jerry, if you don’t care for yourself,” my wife’s physician warned me, “you’ll likely die before Susan.”

Caregivers seek ways to stay alive, and self-care is the usual recommendation. But all too often our first impulse is to control our painful feelings, which can sidetrack selfcare and make a hard job harder. It’s like scratching the itch of poison ivy, which can transform an irritation into a nasty wound. Similarly, we get hooked on self-defeating habits, which can transform stress into burnout.

Surprisingly, our biggest threat isn’t the constant stress, but rather the burnout we can inadvertently manufacture ourselves.

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FEB / MARCH 2021

The challenge for caregivers, then, is learning new habits aimed at making a hard job easier, not harder.

Here are three common self-defeating habits, and healthy antidotes that address situation-made stress, dodge self-made burnout, and open the door to genuine self-care.

1. RESISTING PAINFUL EMOTIONS We ache to get rid of our upsets, so we often get hooked on things like burying difficult feelings, avoiding uncomfortable situations, or simply refusing to admit to ourselves that we’re in turmoil. Unfortunately, resisting painful emotions is like holding a beachball underwater: You can do it, but the constant effort involved can totally deplete our energy and time, as well as divert our attention from self-care.

Instead, consider acceptance, which is allowing emotional pain to be just as it is in the moment, making space for upsets in private without acting out in public.

It’s the difference between stepping back and being with our upsets versus just being our upsets. Mushy as it may sound, to feel it is to heal it.

2. BROODING We aim to control our feelings through thinking, and willy-nilly we often get hooked on repetitive and incessant negative thinking—like rehashing past foul-ups or

freaking out over imagined future calamities. Brooding is problem-solving run amuck in the dim back alleys of our hyperactive minds—and it can spiral downward into anxiety and depression, which can derail caregiving.

Instead, consider redirecting attention to the present moment. One way is to embrace what I call wholesome diversions, intentionally turning to activities that fully absorb our attention and embody what we value. Writing is my favorite; kayaking is another. We can change how we feel by changing what we do.

3. SCOLDING OURSELVES We aim to control our pain by whipping ourselves into shape, so we mollycoddle our inner critic as it harshly berates us for falling short. Caregivers need support, not tearing-down and piling-on—especially when frazzled and most likely to make mistakes.

Instead, consider self-compassion, accepting our humanity and imperfections—and giving ourselves warmth and kindness, just as we would aid a needy friend. In tough moments, for example, I say to myself: “NO WONDER I got this wrong, given all the stuff on my plate.” These two words, “no wonder,” are my secret sauce.

These healthy antidotes to “scratching my itch” can be put into daily practice by learning three inner skills: stepping back and noticing the goings on inside our minds; detecting our unhelpful habits; and diverting attention to antidotes. These skills can be learned through mindfulness training, which teaches us ways to pay attention that enhance our awareness and perspective.

CARETIME CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP APRIL 2021

Wednesday, April 14th 1:00 – 2:00pm The Adult Resource Alliance 1505 Avenue D Lewis & Clark Room (2nd Floor)

• TOPIC •

General Sharing Session

MAY 2021

Wednesday, May 12th 1:00 – 2:00pm The Adult Resource Alliance 1505 Avenue D Lewis & Clark Room (2nd Floor)

• TOPIC •

Introduction to Long Term Care with Guest Speaker Emily Jarvis

other fruitful outcomes. These new habits hold out hope— for Lisa, for me, and for other caregivers struggling to stay alive and sustain loving care. Even more, it’s liberating to know we can remain authors of our own lives, instead of victims of crushing circumstances, as we grapple with the death-defying journey of caregiving.

Stress is a mighty burden for caregivers. But the good news is we can learn new ways to handle stress, avert burnout, and redirect our energy toward self-care and www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance 29

SUPPORTERS

Thank you to each one of you who made a contribution during the months of January and February.

Thank you to each one of you who have made a recent contribution.

You truly are making a positive difference in the lives of seniors in our community.

Gene & Bobi Allard Bonnie Ambuehl Anonymous Sue & Tim Bailey Jane Ballard Timothy & Betty Ballou Mike & Lauretta Bentz Barbara Berg Jan Buehler Danny & Lestina Burrington John & Karren Cannon Jaime Carpenter John & Judy Dailey Katherine Damson Peace Lutheran Church Tom & Molly Dennis Dick & Sue DeVries Eddie & Greg Dibble

30

APRIL / MAY 2021

Otto & Jody Dringman Marlin & Sharon Dunlap Mary Dyer Eunice Ellison Rita Emond Laura Faith Judy Fenton First Interstate BancSystem Foundation Teresa Fischer Tina Fritz Randy & Terri Gabel Cheryl Galt Mike & Sherrill Geddes John & Diane Gerharz Gregg & Marcia Hafner Lawrence & Mary Anne Halvorson Tom Holt Gloria Horab

Aubrey & Roxie Houchen Jim & Judy Hughes Ruth Jackson Diane Jerhoff John & Clara Johnson Aiko Kawano Kelly Keller Harry & Jeanette Kessner Jan Kirk Gary & Janice Koch Nicholas Konecny Caroline Lansing James & Irene Larson Edeen Linsky Lucille Lynn Tiffany Madden Ben McKee Jeannie McKinney Jerry & Kay Lynn Michels Pat Mitchelll Delbert & Dina Moser Erik Neva Roger & Gerry Olmstead Ken & Margaret Peterson Michael & Lorri Pool Ella Rider Curt Sauber Roger & Sharon Schatzke Kent & Mary Sielbach Nancy Sinclair Norma Sitton Wally & Kay Stadtfeld Dorothy Steinmetz Lynda Stoner Betty Streeter Virginia Sulser Mona Sumner Mark & Karen Thomas Gerrald & Marlene Wagner Connie Wittman Elsa Zorn

Memorials in Memory of Frankie Albo Wallace & Gayla Bradberry Willard Baker Virginia Frank Daryl Beam Linda Carlson Edna Best Mike & Pam Makara Tillie Carrico Dennis & Diane Powers Wayne Ettleman Angeline Ettleman Marion Hankel Ken & Margaret Peterson Jack Johnson Sharon Ille Bea Ann Melichar Elizabeth, George, & Rick Keiser Ron & Kay Marker Marlene Kober Forster Marv & Sue Carter Gordon Forster Elda Gabrielson Pat McAllister Brad & Pam Anderson Linda Deavila Chuck & Adeline Rudio Charles & Arlene Schweigert Bill Ruff Ella Rider James Ruff Eleanor Ruff George Sarsten Bea Ann Melichar Jane Stark Dennis Schock Maurice Styger Bea Ann Melichar Nancy Whitmer Ronald & Maryann Conboy Joyce Weurtz

Home Oxygen & Medical Equipment Showroom is now open and offering the following equipment: • • • • • • • • • •

Lifeline™ Personal Emergency Response Service Respiratory monitoring equipment Oxygen systems and supplies Tracheostomy supplies Aerosol Therapy CPAP and BIPAP systems Suction equipment and supplies Apnea monitors and supplies Respiratory therapy supplies

• • • • • • • •

Ventilators Canes Wheelchairs Walkers and other walking aids Hospital beds and accessories Bath and toilet aids Physical limitation aids Seasonal light therapy

Home Oxygen & Medical Equipment 801 N. 27th St Billings, Mt 59101 (406) 657-4400 or (406) 657-4433 billingsclinic.com www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance 31

OUR COMMUNITY 32

APRIL / MAY 2021

MEAL SITE UPDATES ADULT RESOURCE ALLIANCE 1505 Avenue D • Reservations: 259-9666 Monday thru Friday

The whole planet is waking up after a long year of hurt and hibernation. Just like a bear emerging from her den in Spring, it will take time to adjust.

We have witnessed a crankiness in our nation that has made us less nice. So, my 1% pledge is to be less “Oscar the Grouch” and speak positively to those in my world.

Beware, our Avenue D Meal Site is officially a “grouch free” zone in 2021.

In April, I encourage anyone who has lost a friend, neighbor or loved one to Covid 19, to join us throughout the month while we dine. Reservations are due the day before by Noon. You are welcome to put a name of a loved one in the memory book and receive a butterfly trinket as we honor them.

In closing, I’d like to take this opportunity to thank our Adult Resource Alliance leadership, supervisors, board members, staff and volunteers for keeping this organization safe through the pandemic. You are indeed

Pictured are Rose W, Pat D, Phyllis B and Ron S.

the best people! Through multiple trainings, masks, and supplying us with “moral boosting”, we have made it!

As we re-open Alliance meals sites, things will have a slightly new look, BUT, we will always maintain our core tradition of hospitality.

—Mary Beth

THE AVENUE D ALLIANCE MEAL SITE LOCATION is excited to announce that we will begin serving

FIVE DAYS A WEEK FOR DINE-IN BEGINNING MONDAY, APRIL 5, 2021.

We will offer a scrumptious hot meal or Crispy Chicken Salad Monday through Friday. Please note there is no Walk-In deli at this time or activities.

You can trust us to keep you safe with social distancing and mask wearing. Phase 1 is intact until further notice. We will handle all the beverages from a cart and condiments will be delivered in packets.

Coffee will be $.75 for a bottomless cup.

There will be two seatings for lunch

11:00 to 11:40

and 11:45 to 12:30. When you call in, please specify which one you prefer. Our capacity at this point is 24 people per seating. This allows us to social distance of four per table. As always, we share our table space with new faces so they become familiar acquaintances. Please call 259-9666 and make your reservation by NOON the day before.

This new procedure will take a village, so please be patient. We want what is best for you. When you are ready we will be here. www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance 33

MEAL SITE UPDATES HEIGHTS MEAL SITE 935 Lake Elmo Drive • Reservations: 259-9666

HAPPY SPRING FROM

Janet, Marlene & Janlyn We are anxiously awaiting the rebirth of the Heights Alliance location re-opening. Until then, we are continuing to sell frozen meals at $2.50 each Monday and Friday from 11 am – 1pm.

Spring is in the air, and yes we are excited! Daylight Savings time comes early this year, Sunday, March 14th which means, sunrise and sunset will be an hour later. Don’t forget to set your clocks forward.

Until we meet again, stay safe and healthy.

BILLINGS COMMUNITY

CENTER

720 South 4th Street • Meal Site Coordinator: Mary Reservations: 628-7571 • Monday thru Friday For me, arriving each morning at 1505 Avenue D location is a little like coming to work at the Billings Community Center kitchen, but on a much larger scale. We have cooks, coordinators, supervisors, a dishwasher, and a dozen volunteer drivers hustling around one another.

This all happens before 10:30! Team work is the word each and every day. With all this said, I can’t wait to be back at Billings Community Center. I look forward to seeing each and every one of you and making this next year at least 1% better!

—Tina

GO FOR IT 34

APRIL / MAY 2021

HUNTLEY SENIOR CENTER 37 Minecha Avenue • 967-2671

Hi! Our theme for this issue is of Senior News is “1% better”. Is it very much? If you are ill and get 1% better each day, soon you will be well. What if you have 1% more money today than yesterday, if 1% more schools, businesses and meal sites are able to open? Great!

I hope April showers bring us May flowers. Wishes to everyone for a happy Easter and a wonderful Mother’s Day. Remember those on Memorial Day too.

We are so glad Huntley Seniors are up and running at the Sportsman’s Club with hot meals to go for our seniors.

Hope you will meet at least 1% more friends and this column is at least 1% better than the last one.

Have fun and enjoy each day. I will be calling you.

—Phyllis

MEAL SITE UPDATES LAUREL SENIOR CENTER 720 South 4th Street • Meal Site Coordinator: Mary Reservations: 628-7571 • Monday thru Friday

Greetings from the Laurel Senior Meal Site. We are finally almost ready to reopen our meal site! It has been a long time coming. We have missed being able to serve you in person. I am looking forward to getting back to our “new” normal. Things are going to be different than before, but we will all get used to it. It’s hard to believe it’s been a year since we closed. We hope to see you soon.

Mary & Amy

PARTIAL LIST OF 2021 TOURS Limited Seats Available Don’t Wait ~ Call NOW!

JULY 23 MAY 29

Join us on this terrific combo day tour!

Hear the compelling and moving story about Heart Mountain, followed by Cody Attractions! ☛ $198/pp. $100 Deposit to reserve seat; Balance due: May 5, 2021

JUNE 19

A Day to explore the Castle Museum, White Sulphur Springs and The Bair Museum, Martinsdale

☛ $165/pp. $100 Deposit; Balance May 25, 2021

JUNE 25

8-Day America’s Music Cities featuring Nashville, Memphis and New Orleans ☛ $3,499/ppd. $200 Deposit. Bal Due April 23, 2021. Incl RT Air from Billings

Day to Encounter the Bighorn Canyon Boat Tour! ☛ $195/pp. $100 Deposit; Balance Due June 23, 2021.

AUGUST 27

11-Day Motor Coach ‘The Ark Encounter in Williamstown, Kentucky & Creation Museum.’

This incredible life-sized Noah’s Ark built to dimensions given in the Bible can be mindblowing and a fascinating experience of modern engineering ☛ $1,175/ppd. $75 Deposit. Balance Due June 20, 2021.

SEPTEMBER 19

6-Day Sedona’s Red Rocks and The Grand Canyon, featuring Two Historic Rail Journeys ☛ $2699/ppd; $200 Deposit; Bal Due July 16, 2021. Incl RT Air

Be sure to keep this page of information for future reference of GDP Tours for 2021.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT LILY MOORE AT GDP TOURS office: 256-1492 • talk & text: 860-9085 lily@gdptours.com • www.gdptours.com

www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance 35

MEAL SITE UPDATES SOUTH PARK

901 S 30th St • southparkseniors.org 256-6413 We are taking baby steps when it comes to re-opening our Center. At the beginning of February, we introduced curb-side takeout meals on Mondays and Fridays. The turnout has been amazing and the count continues to increase each week. We are looking forward to Spring when the sun and flowers will inspire us to get out a bit more.

Hope to see you all soon!

Marilyn C.

WORDEN

2445 Main St • 967-6535 A whole year has passed us by since we’ve gathered. I know everyone is anxious to get back together. Alliance is working hard to get us there. Soon we’ll gather to share meals and exchange stories of what we’ve been doing these last 12 months, and how the Covid virus has affected us. Once again, we’ll celebrate birthdays and special holidays. That’s at least 1% better than what we’ve had for the past year!

We’re continuing to offer takeout meals on Fridays until we can gather in the hall.

—Phyllis

Become a little bit better

EVERY DAY

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APRIL / MAY 2021

—Solana

BUS SCHEDULE CUSTER BUS TO BILLINGS

2nd and 4th Tuesday of Every Month

Call 861-4259 for Reservation

LAUREL TRANSPORTATION PROGRAM Within Laurel: Mon-Fri• 10am-4pm Laurel to Billings: st 1 & 3rd Tues Afternoons EVERYONE WELCOME!

Call 628-4796 for Reservation

Spring Word Search

www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance 37

WILLS • ESTATE PLANNING INSURANCE DISPUTES GENERAL LITIGATION

Hey Pooh?

A trusted law firm for over 100 years . . .

Yes Piglet?

This thing seems to be going on forever.

You mean the pandemic thing?

Yeah, will it ever end?

Oh I hope so Piglet.

I do too, I miss so much.

What do you miss?

Hugs Pooh, I miss hugs.

Yeah, it's the one thing that humans were good at.

I know Piglet, I know.

Call Brent Cromley: 248-7731 brent.cromley@moultonbellingham.com

ELDERLY/IN-HOME CARE Visiting Caregivers • Special Needs

• • • • • • •

Tree/Shrub Trim or Removal Gravel Area Sterilizer Weed and Pest Control Gutter Clean Out Brush Chipping, Hauling, Odd Jobs Stump and Root Removal Licensed & Insured

PLEASE CALL 252-4677 erniescott4406@gmail.com

Helpful Handy

SERVICES

• • • • •

Painting • Lawn Care Small Home Repair • Carpet Cleaning • Window Cleaning Demolition • Office Cleaning Maintenance Licensed & Insured Rototilling FREE ESTIMATES

Shaun 670-1897

HelpfulHandyServices@gmail.com Not Licensed for Electrical, HVAC or Plumbing Work

Wendy Nelson Senior Health Plan Specialist

• Medicare Supplements • Life Insurance • Prescription Drug Plans • Annuities • Advantage Plans • Dental & Vision Plans • Final Expense Plans

3429 Central Ave, Ste A • Billings Office: (406) 969-3000 Email: wendy@justaskwendy.com 38

APRIL / MAY 2021

FULL LINE OF INCONTINENCE PRODUCTS — DEPENDABLE DELIVERY TO YOUR DOOR — Locally owned and operated.

406-534-1439 • 2301 1st Ave. N. • Billings, MT 59101

$12.00

Doug & Sheena • FAX: 406-534-2905

www.discreetsolutionsinc.com • EMAIL: info@discreetsolutionsinc.com

Patients rely on the generosity of blood donors to recover, heal and thrive VOLUNTEER DRIVERS NEEDED CALL 869-3040 FOR DETAILS Ensuring a safe blood supply for our community Schedule an appointment at vitalant.org or call 877-258-4825 Find us @vitalant:

SENIOR WELLNESS

FOOT CARE CLINIC

by Richard Werbelow, BSN, RN, CFCN WCC — Appointments now available at —

Billings Community Center

Located at 4th Avenue North and North 24th Street One block East of Tiny’s Tavern

Call Rich at (406) 860-4482 • rwerbelow@yahoo.com

Jacob’s

FRE E ES TIM ATE S

SERVICES

— LICENSED & INSURED — • Mowing • Window Cleaning • Power Raking

Jacob Wood Owner/Operator

• Lawn Edging • Gutter Clean Out

Box 81442 MT 406.850.7531 P.O.Billings,

CHECK OUT OUR FACEBOOK PAGE FOR

UPDATES & NEWS

/AdultResourceAlliance

www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance 39

KEEPING ADULTS 60 AND ABOVE INDEPENDENT AND INVOLVED

PO BOX 20895, BILLINGS, MT 59104

NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID BILLINGS, MT PERMIT NO. 47

Hospice Hospice&& Hospice & Hospice Home Hospice Home

Hospice Home At RiverStone Health Hospice and RiverStone

At RiverStone Health Hospice and RiverStone

Health Hospice Home, we understand the importance

Hospice Home, understand the importance ofHealth providing comfort in life’swe final days. We create an

of providing comfort in life’s final days. create an environment where loved ones canand spend theirWe final At RiverStone Health Hospice RiverStone environment where loved ones can spend their final

moments in peace. Our team of compassionate health Health Hospice Home, we understand the importance

professionals for Our patients in their own homes. health moments incares peace. team of compassionate

of providing comfort in life’s finalthedays.

We create an Patients and families also have option of 24/7

professionals cares for patients in their own homes.

professional hospice care atalso our RiverStone Healthoffinal environment where loved ones can spend their Patients and families have the option 24/7

Home, 2230 Mission Way in Billings, MT. momentsHospice inprofessional peace.

Our team of compassionate hospice care at our RiverStonehealth Health To learn more, call us today at 406.651.6500.

Hospice 2230 Mission Wayown in Billings, MT. professionals caresHome, for patients in their homes. learn more, us today at 406.651.6500.

Patients andTofamilies alsocall have the option of 24/7

professional hospice care at our RiverStone Health Hospice Home, 2230 Mission Way in Billings, MT. To learn more, call us today at 406.651.6500.

406.651.6500 • RiverStoneHealth.org

406.651.6500 • RiverStoneHealth.org