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Exhilaration of running river captivates Donna Hiller at midlife
By Dianna Troyer Unbeknownst to Donna Hiller at the time, impulsively accepting an invitation from her brother to float the Main Salmon River led her to fall for a new pastime at midlife. “Before that trip in 2000, I’d never run a river, but I told myself to give it a try,” recalls Donna, a dental hygienist who was 50 at the time and
Donna Hiller scouts Marble Rapid on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River, one of her favorite Idaho waterways. [Photo provided by Donna Hiller]
living in Boise. “When I was growing up in Idaho Falls with five brothers, we went fishing a lot with our dad around eastern Idaho, but I’d never done a float trip or camped out. I wondered if I could stand sleeping on the ground in a tent.” She was surprised at how happy she felt on the river. “I had about as much fun as I could stand. I loved everything about it: being outside, the camaraderie, cooking together, knowing you’re with people who have your back.” While volunteering for the Parks and Recreation program in Boise, she met another river runner, Deme Dellairo, whose husband prefers the comforts of home to wet and wild rivers. (Continued on page 37)
Gather the Hidden Eggs
Just for fun, we have hidden 8 Easter eggs throughout this issue of the Idaho Senior Independent. Find them and mail or email to us a list of the page numbers on which you found them. We will award a $25 prize to the person who finds all of the eggs. If there are multiple correct entries, the winner will be determined by a drawing. None of the hidden eggs is located within an advertisement. Have fun!
PAGE 2 IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT
Idaho History Important To Remember
I would like to compliment Gary Schorzman for his excellent historical research in our area and the books he has written to inform us. In particular his descriptions of Paul from its beginning to the present day. Also for his research on those brave immigrants that came to Minidoka County to eke out a living in the desert. His description of their hopes, harsh lives, and heartbreak are most excellent. These are the kinds of people who have made Idaho so great! Viola Brown Ammon
APRIL/MAY 2015
VITAL Provides Opportunities For Veterans
Thank you for addressing our inquiry regarding Calvin Price in the Oct/Nov issue of the Idaho Senior Independent. Veterans Initiatives in Technology, Aerospace, & Logistics (VITAL) works to train American veterans and especially service-connected, disabled veterans in contemporary manufacturing technology for rewarding careers. In addition and as an example, we worked with the VA Medical Center Reno last fall to host 200 DAVs at Reno’s National Championship Air Races. Amid the noise and excitement of 450+ mph WWII warbirds, many tears were shed when youngsters hugged these vets (many in wheelchairs) and thanked them for saving our country. Thank you for the complementary copies. John Fitzgerald Colville, Washington
Enjoy The Paper And The Contests
I enjoyed this contest finding advertisers without having to go to the Internet to find the answers. Have you thought about doing a crossword puzzle based on advertisers? That would be fun too. Eleta Creutz Ammon You have a great paper! We have many readers at the Caldwell Senior Center. Keep up the good work. Judi Cronk Caldwell This contest was quite challenging, and I definitely read every ad several times very carefully! Thanks for the contests. Denise Best St. Maries ISI
Before It’s Too Late: Deathbed Conversations with Dad
Idaho Senior Independent A Barrett-Whitman Publication
P.O. Box 3341 • Great Falls, MT 59403-3341 208-318-0310 • Toll Free: 1-866-360-5683 Fax: 406-761-8358 www.idahoseniorindependent.com E-mail: idahoseniorind@bresnan.net The Idaho Senior Independent is published six times each year in February, April, June, August, October, and December by Barrett-Whitman, 415 3rd Avenue North, Great Falls, MT 59401 and is distributed free to readers throughout the state of Idaho. The mail subscription rate is $10.00 per year (6 issues). The Idaho Senior Independent is written to serve Idaho’s mature population of all ages. Readers are encouraged to contribute interesting material. Views expressed in opinion stories, contributions, articles, and letters are not necessarily the views of the publisher. The appearance of advertisements for products or services does not constitute an endorsement of the particular product or service. The publisher will not be responsible for mistakes in advertisements unless notified within five days of publication. All copy appearing in the Idaho Senior Independent is protected by copyright and may be reprinted only with the written permission of the publisher. Advertising copy should be received or space reserved by the 5th of the month preceding the month of publication.
When it comes to kids gauging the moods of their Dads, most children hone their skills by reading their father’s temperament after he arrives home from work. Since he is an imposing figure, Dad’s negative disposition can easily hinder his child’s ability to interact with him. As a result, the lack of meaningful early communication can spill over into adulthood, leaving grown children with unresolved “daddy issues.” “My father was the ‘strong and silent’ type,” reveals Louise Lewis, author of “No Experts Needed: The Meaning of Life According to You!” She adds, “With an emphasis on the ‘silent.’ That is, until he exploded in anger.” As with many children, Dad was more of a stranger than Mom for the majority of Lewis’ life. “I feared him. I obeyed him. I loved him, but I didn’t know him.” With the passing of time, aging fathers have a tendency to mellow. This creates an opportu-
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nity for their child to become more comfortable speaking candidly while sharing a conversation with Dad. “When my daddy aged and began to soften, my defenses dropped because I feared him less,” remembers Lewis, who – after losing her job due to the dot-com implosion – spent five years on a Spirit-led journey to discover the meaning of life. Many sons and daughters are able to forgive their fathers for perceived childhood wrongs, once they see him as a normal human being who did the best he could raising them. “It wasn’t until I saw Daddy as an old man suddenly preparing for his own death that I was able to summon the strength to confront Daddy openly, honestly, and lovingly,” tells Lewis. Sensing the end might be near, and living halfway across the country from her parents, Lewis chose to live with “no regrets.” She encour-
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IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 3
aged a dialogue with her father, one that is usually reserved for someone’s very last days. “I wanted to have the deathbed conversation right then and there in case he got sick quickly and I couldn’t get home in time.” According to Lewis, “timing is everything” when initiating a discussion of this magnitude, but “you don’t have to wait decades before having it.” Once she and her father had the frank talk, Lewis says, “All the childhood wounds were instantly healed. All the pain dissolved.” She adds, “Never before had my heart felt so open and full of love than in that moment with Daddy.” This leads her to wonder: If a grown child and their father still have issues, why wait so long in life to resolve them? In some cases, death will precede the needed deathbed conversation leaving the wounds that much harder to heal. “There might not be a tomorrow,” warns Lewis, whose father passed months later. “Knowing that I had already said the things that needed to be said, actually helped a great deal during the grieving process.” Nothing was left unsaid, hence, leaving no room for regrets. Lewis believes having the deathbed conversation not only eased her Dad’s mind during his passing, but also helped to deal with her other relationships. “I needed to get to a better place with Daddy because I knew in the end, I would be left with the memory of my role in that relationship.” She adds, “The earlier the better.” Having a deathbed conversation – which tends to be open, honest, and full of love and forgiveness – in a scenario not clouded by a pending death, can enhance the father/child relationship for the remaining years of everyone’s lives. Louise Lewis has two decades of experience in marketing and advertising in the high-tech industry. When the dot-com bubble imploded, so did Lewis’ cozy world. Her sudden job loss led her on a journey to seek out a new meaning in her life. She discovered some core truths that can help others discover their own sense of purpose. Born and raised in Louisiana, Lewis earned her bachelor’s degree in Communications at California State University in Fullerton. She still lives in Southern California and serves as a volunteer at Children’s Hospital of Orange County. ISI
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APRIL/MAY 2015
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Spring is finally here. Smell the sweet aroma of blossoming flora, invigorated by subtle drops of rain. Listen to the bird’s floating melodies as they flutter about in the sky. Spring brings with it a sense of renewal and refreshment. What a perfect season for new love and friendship. To respond to any of these personal ads, simply forward your message and address, phone number, or email address to the department number listed in the particular personal ad, c/o Idaho Senior Independent, P.O. Box 3341, Great Falls, MT 59403. We will forward your response, including your address, phone number, and/or email address to the person placing the ad. When you respond to an ad in this section, there is no guarantee that you will receive a response. That is up to the person who placed the ad. Please submit your correct address plainly printed, so you can promptly receive replies. Respond to the ads in this issue, and also sit down now and prepare your own ad to run in our next issue. There is no charge for this service, and your ad may lead you down the path of companionship and true love! Responses to personal ads appearing in this column may be submitted at any time. However, to place a personal ad in the June/July 2015 issue, the deadline is May 7, 2015. SWF 47 with teenage child at home would love to find a well-mannered gentleman for shared activities and who likes animals. If interested and want to know more, please write. Reply ISI, Dept. 11101, c/o Idaho Senior Independent, Box 3341, Great Falls, MT 59403.
SWF. I live in the Idaho Falls area and am looking for a friend. I love to have fun and keep busy and with a friend all this is possible. Not looking for a fun ride, just a friend to enjoy the ride with me. I love to ride horses, motorcycles, and four wheelers. Girls just want to have fun. By the time the warmer weather in Idaho gets here, I pray someone has found me. Reply ISI, Dept. 11102, c/o Idaho Senior Independent, Box 3341, Great Falls, MT 59403. SWF almost fit, try to eat natural foods. I love to cook and enjoy some travel. You don’t have to be the healthiest specimen on the planet. If problems with family – it’s normal – and you don’t have to be a football player or Olympic type. Like many things, can conform to your lifestyle if appropriate. No drugs, no smoking please. Reply ISI, Dept. 11103, c/o Idaho Senior Independent, Box 3341, Great Falls, MT 59403. Hi ladies. I’m a fellow 6’3” tall, 225lbs, blue eyed, full head of gray hair, broad shouldered. 78 years old. I’ll be going to Iowa in September for my 60th high school reunion. I wonder if there is a lady from the rural area of Idaho, who normally doesn’t have many choices to meet a nice widower. I have an un-restored 1929 Ford Model A pickup in fine running condition. I haul it behind my 29-foot fully contained motor home. Rural girls enjoy driving trucks, tractors, and RVs. Personally, I like petite, but I’m not stuck up. I held a top-secret security clearance in the U.S. Army Intelligence. I am a non-smoker, non-drug user. I love to admire high school cheerleaders at football games. Reply ISI, Dept. 11104, c/o
Life’s Lessons Submitted by John Early, New York City Written by Regina Brett, 90 - Cleveland, Ohio To celebrate growing older, I once wrote the 45 lessons life taught me. It is the most requested column I’ve ever written. My odometer rolled over to 90 recently, so here is the column once more: 1. Life isn’t fair, but it’s still good. 2. When in doubt, just take the next small step. 3. Life is too short – enjoy it. 4. Your job won’t take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and family will. 5. Pay off your credit cards every month. 6. You don’t have to win every argument. Stay true to yourself. 7. Cry with someone. It’s more healing than crying alone. 8. It’s okay to get angry with the universe. It can take it. 9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck. 10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile. 11. Make peace with your past so it won’t screw up the present. 12. It’s okay to let your children see you cry. 13. Don’t compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about. 14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn’t be in it. 15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye, but don’t worry, God never blinks. 16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind. 17. Get rid of anything that isn’t useful. Clutter weighs you down in many ways. 18. Whatever doesn’t kill you really does make you stronger. 19. It’s never too late to be happy. But it’s all up to you and no one else. 20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don’t take no for an answer. 21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don’t save it for a special occasion. Today is special. 22. Over prepare, and then go with the flow. 23. Be eccentric now. Don’t wait for old age to wear purple. 24. The most important sex organ is the brain. 25. No one is in charge of your happiness but you. 26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words, “In five years, will this matter?” 27. Always choose life. 28. Forgive 29. What other people think of you is none of your business. 30. Time heals almost everything. Give time time. (Cont’d on pg 8)
IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 5
Idaho Senior Independent, Box 3341, Great Falls, MT 59403. SWM Honest, healthy, 60s, 5’7”, 158lbs. Act and feel younger. Age=Attitude & Health. I am retired, home paid off – vehicles paid off, financially secure. I like fishing, camping, hunting, dancing, sports, grandkids, outdoors, and being active. Would like to find a female companion who has some similar interests. Affectionate and height and weight average. I can cook and do housework. I take extra good care of what I love – yard, car, dog, and most of all a great companion! Reply ISI, Dept. 11105, c/o Idaho Senior Independent, Box 3341, Great Falls, MT 59403. ISI
PAGE 6 IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT
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IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 7
Did You Know These Interesting Facts About Idaho? By Bernice Karnop • Like rivers? Idaho has lots of them. If you could combine all its rivers, it would create a float trip of about 3,100 miles. That’s longer than the combined rivers of any other state. • The nickname of the Salmon River sounds like a threat and a warning to those who would try to float it – the River of no Return. • Idaho might be considered the state with the oddest size. Looking like a misshapen high top shoe, it takes the prize for touching the most other states and provinces. It borders British Columbia, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Wyoming, and Washington. • Not everyone has a state horse, but Idaho recognizes the distinctive appaloosa. The Nez Perce Indians, who lived here before it was a state, bred and valued these distinctive equines. Appaloosa are a solid color everywhere except for the rump, which is colorfully and uniquely spotted. • Murphy, Idaho, population 50, is the county seat of Owyhee County. It’s the smallest county seat in America. Someone there has an oversized sense of humor, however. Why else would they put the only parking meter in the town right in front of the county court house? Is it Murphy’s Law? • The beautiful Spanish mission style Panida Theater originally opened in 1927 in Sandpoint. One of the premiere vaudeville and
movie theaters in the region, it was dedicated to serving the people of the PANhandle of IDAho, and thus the name. In the 1980s, its faded glory was restored. It’s now on the National Register of Historic places and continues to bring entertainment to people of the Panhandle. • The chateau-style Northern Pacific Railroad depot in Wallace was built in 1901 with 15,000 bricks that were salvaged from what was to be a grand hotel in Tacoma. It survived a 1906 flood, the 1910 fires, and a 1914 runaway train that crashed only a few feet from the depot. The last train left in 1980 and as a final insult, the building had to be moved to make way for the Interstate. Still it survives as the Northern Pacific Depot Railroad Museum, proudly cherishing an extensive collection of NP memorabilia, including a quilt with NP’s signature red and black yin-yang symbol. • The statue of George Washington astride a horse inside the state capitol in Boise was created by Charles Ostner, a Payette River ferry operator. It’s said he worked for four years by candlelight, carving the statue from a single piece of yellow pine. The bronzed statue was presented to the Idaho territorial government in 1869. In 1934, it was brought inside and the weather-damaged work was re-covered with gold leaf. ISI
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Life’s Lessons - continued from page 5 Idaho Seniorgood Independent 31. However or bad a situation is, it will change. 32. Don’t take yourself so seriously. No one else does. 33. Believe in miracles. 35. Don’t audit life. Show up and make the most of it now. 36. Growing old beats the alternative of dying young. 37. Your children get only one childhood. 38. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.
39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere. 40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else’s, we’d grab ours back. 41. Envy is a waste of time. Accept what you already have, not what you need. 42. The best is yet to come... 43. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up. 44. Yield. 45. Life isn’t tied with a bow, but it’s still a gift. ISI
At first, advertising slogans and jingles were only in printed advertising – newspapers, magazines, on buildings, and along highways, i.e. Burma Shave and billboards) – and then on the radio and finally on television. How powerful they were at catching our attention, attracting us to the advertisers’ products, and lingering in our minds – sometimes maddeningly! When you work this month’s Phrases of Popular Culture quiz, you will remember many of those advertisements and how you used the products. Thank you and congratulations to Jim Meade for submitting this quiz. He is the winner of the doubled prize of $50. Thank you to all who participated in our Can You Find These Observances quiz in the February/March 2015 issue. The two $50 winners selected from the answers submitted are Mary
McPherson of Clearwater and De Etta Moss of Boise. Congratulations! Two $25 cash prizes are awarded from the “Contest Corner” in each issue of the Idaho Senior Independent. One prize goes to the person who submits the winning answers to the featured quiz from the previous issue. The second $25 prize goes to the person who submits the entry that our staff selects as the featured quiz or puzzle in the “Contest Corner” for this issue. Be creative and send us some good, fun, and interesting puzzles! Please mail your entries to the Idaho Senior Independent, P.O. Box 3341, Great Falls, MT 59403, or email to idahoseniorind@bresnan.net by May 10, 2015 for our June/July 2015 edition. Be sure to work the crossword puzzle on our website www.idahoseniorindependent.com.
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Phrases of Popular Culture Submitted by Jim Meade Below is a series of questions/phrases that represent advertising jingles, song lyrics, television introductions, etc. from the ‘40s, ‘50s, ‘60s, and later. Your job is to fill in the blank or whatever is required to provide the answer. Just jot down your answers on a numbered sheet of paper and send them to us. E-mail is fine too. Have fun with this journey into yesteryear. 1. After the Lone Ranger saved the day and rode off into the sunset, the grateful citizens would ask, “Who was that masked man?” Invariably, someone would answer, “I don’t know, but he left this behind.” What did he leave behind? 2. When the Beatles first came to the U.S. in early 1964, we all watched them on the ___________ Show. 3. “Get your kicks, _________.” 4. “The story you are about to see is true. The names have been changed to ___________.” 5. “In the jungle, the mighty jungle, __________.” 6. After the Twist, the Mashed Potato, and the Watusi, we danced under a stick that was lowered as low as we could go in a dance called the ___________. 7. “Nestlé’s makes the very best.... _________.” 8. Satchmo was America’s Ambassador of Goodwill and this great jazz trumpeter entertained our parents and us as well. His name was _________. 9. What takes a licking and keeps on ticking? __________. 10. Red Skeleton’s hobo character was named ______________. 11. Red Skelton always ended his television show saying, “Good Night, and ________.” 12. The cute German VW with the engine in the back and the trunk in the front also was called _______ or ________. 13. In 1971, singer Don MacLean sang a song about, the day the music died. This was a tribute to ____________. 14. The Russians first succeeding in placing a satellite in earth orbit in 1957. It was called ________. 15. One of the big fads of the ‘50s and ‘60s was a large plastic ring that we twirled around our waist called a ______________. 16. One brand of cigarettes used the initials LS/MFT, which meant ___________. 17. “Hey Kids! What time is it? It’s ___________!” 18. “Who knows what secrets lie in the hearts of men? Only the _______ knows!” 19. The name of the ‘60s song that was “a graveyard smash” was _________!
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20. The name of the baby-faced character with a tablet on his head to promote Alka-Seltzer was _________. 21. Some Americans who protested the Vietnam War did so by burning their ________. 22. “You’ll wonder where the yellow went when you brush your teeth with __________.” 23. What service says “Let your fingers do the walking?” 24. This little candy “melts in your mouth, not in your hand.”
25. These are “M’m! M’m! Good!” 26. “__________” was the slogan of the company that was #2 but wanted to be #1. 27. “A little dab’ll do ya” was all it took of this product to keep hair in place. 28. There may have been a time when we would have walked a mile for a _______. 29. This product was so soft that we were admonished not to squeeze it. 30. What product made us wonder, “Does she or doesn’t she?” ISI
Answers to Can You Find These Observances? Pg 1. 2.
4 6
3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
7 9 11 11 15 17
9.
18
10. 20
Observance March 20 is Alien Abduction Day March 15-21 is American Chocolate Week February is American Heart Month March 20 is Astrology Day March 15 is Brutus Day March 15 is Buzzards Day March 16 is Curlew Day February 17 is Champion Crab Races Day March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month February 23 is Diesel Engine Day
Pg Observance 11. 21 February 18 is Cow Milked While Flying in an Airplane Day 12. 22 February 10 is Extraterrestrial Visitor Day 13. 23 March 6-8 is Festival of Owls Week 14. 24 February 7-14 is Have A Heart for A Chained Dog Week 15. 26 February 1 is Hula in the Coola Day 16. 28 March 17 is Irish Coffee Day 17. 28 March 11 – Johnny Appleseed Day
48. Type of tax 50. *They officiated LeBron, Wade, and Bosh’s games 52. “I ___ with my naked eye” 53. Test choice 55. Denouement 57. *The Good, ___ ___, and the Ugly 60. *Chico, Harpo, and _______ 64. Skyward 65. Female forest ruminant 67. Continental divide 68. Recorded 69. “... ___ he drove out of sight” 70. Piquant 71. “Joannie Loves Chachi” actress 72. *___, blue, and yellow 73. Earl of _____
Down
Across
1. “_____ End,” retailer 6. Down Under bird 9. Obscenity 13. Hang around for 14. Bamboozle 15. Worn by some British soldiers on ceremonial occasions 16. Gang 17. Skirt’s edge 18. Gung-ho 19. *_______, José, and Luciano 21. *Athos, Porthos, and ______ 23. Bit of binary code 24. Again 25. Public health approver 28. To give approval in writing 30. African tree 35. Hurts 37. Kind of bean 39. *Churchill, Roosevelt, and Stalin meeting spot 40. Genealogist’s work 41. Sign of cancer? 43. Unit of pressure named after Torricelli 44. Wife of Abraham 46. Muscle quality 47. ____-fry
1. Nordic native 2. Military no-show 3. *Employer of Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins 4. *The Bee Gees’ most popular genre 5. Beer garden mugs 6. Reverberated sound 7. *___, Curly, and Larry 8. Unnerve 9. One who makes deceitful pretenses 10. *Gaspar, Balthasar, and Melchior 11. Luau strings, pl. 12. Craggy peak 15. Marine trade route 20. Of or relating to deism 22. Johnny ___, nickname for a Confederate 24. Twisted Sister: “We’re not gonna take it _______” 25. *_____, Stinky, and Stretch 26. English physicist who studied quantum mechanics 27. Make aware 29. Caused by defects in uric acid metabolism 31. Cereals or grains 32. Ink stains 33. A vacation or _ ____ 34. *Robin, Maurice, and _____ Gibb 36. Scorch 38. Steak condiment 42. Send to a specialist, e.g. 45. Situation that is ideal for rapid development 49. ___ Gershwin 51. Alarm button 54. Bovine milk dispenser 56. Italian title, pl. 57. Ski lift
Pg Observance 18. 29 February 8 is Laugh and Get Rich Day 19. 32 March is Mad for Plaid Month 20. 34 March 9 is Napping Day 21. 35 February is Pull Your Sofa off the Wall Month 22. 36 March is Quinoa Month 23. 36 February 1 is Serpent Day 24. 37 February 9-15 is Random Acts of Kindness Week 25. 38 March 7 is Sock Monkey Day (Continued on page 17)
58. Arizona Indian 59. Level 60. Turned to the right, like a horse 61. British tax 62. Passionate dislike 63. December stone 64. Downed a sub, e.g. 66. Miner’s bounty ISI
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Why Don’t You Improve? By Dalton McCrary Why aren’t you getting any better at this game? Golfers spend thousands of dollars on technologically advanced equipment, books, videos, and gadgets all based on the latest instructional techniques. We play and yes, we even practice, to no avail. We still don’t improve. Why? From my observations, there are three main reasons First, you take the off-season, totally off! Your clubs are growin’ dust in the closet, the garage, or the trunk of your car, and they don’t see light of day for months. I say keep a club around the house, and place your hands on it every day so you won’t lose the feel of the weight of the club in your hands, and you can work on bettering that
grip – every day. Remember, Harvey Penick said, “If you have a bad grip you don’t want a good swing.” Profound! Second, when you do find time in your busy schedule to practice (sad but true, folks), you practice dumb! If you only go to the range once a month, it had better be productive! Most of you, after a layoff of 4-6 months, just go out and hit a few balls before you play your first round of the year. Most of you practice only when you have a problem. Dumb again. You’d have a much better chance to improve if you worked out while you’re playing well. This way, you can work on the things you need to improve on, while you’re in a positive frame of mind.
Remember, your wedge and your putter make up 80% of your shots. Your driver comes out only 14 times a round – maybe less. Now, how often do you practice your short game? Should be twothirds of your practice time. Third, since you take the off-season totally off, and you practice dumb, I suggest that the main reason you don’t improve is you don’t know your own golf swing. Get to know it! To recap, if you really want to improve your game, keep a club handy to practice your grip and feel. When you practice, practice intelligently. Spend two-thirds of your time on your short game. And in the process, get to know your own golf swing. ISI
Opportunities Abound For Athletic Fun And Competition By Bernice Karnop Everyone wants to stay healthy, and everyone knows that a key component of a healthy lifestyle is exercise. But Idaho Senior Games coordinator, Michael Thornton from Boise, doesn’t want folks to groan when they hear the “e” word. “Rather than just going to the gym to accomplish good fitness, it’s so much easier if you tie it into a sport you can do year round,” he says. For example, if you tie your exercise into tennis or pickle ball, riding a bicycle, or playing softball, all of a sudden exercising three or four times a week is something you look forward to, instead of avoiding. The overall purpose of senior games is to encourage men and women over 50 to lead an active life style. The games are fun to the point of being addictive! If you go one year, you will want to return the next. The games are scattered around the state and across the summer calendar, so it’s not difficult to find games near you.
The first on the calendar are the Lewis-Clark games in Lewiston on June 10-13, 2015. You can find information on their website lewisclarkgames.org, email them at crobinson@lewisclarkgames.org, or call 208-746-7787. Southeast Idaho Senior Games are held in Pocatello July 10-18, 2015. For more information go to southeastidahoseniorgames.org or call them at 208-233-2034. The Idaho Senior Games in Boise begin August 1 and run throughout the month. Most are held in the first two weekends. Racquetball is held the third weekend, and softball the last weekend. Boise holds competitions in 19 different sports, including, for the first time, badminton. Badminton is a national senior games sport that has never been a part of the Idaho games. Thornton is happy to get it off the ground this year. Get in touch through the web site, idahoseniorgames.org, email them at idahoseniorgamesinfo@gmail.com, or call Michael Thornton at 208861-8000. ISI
Portneuf Medical Center Southeast Idaho Senior Games
Join Us July 10–18, 2015!
ing
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IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 11
Komen Boise Race For The Cure® - A Great Workout For A Great Cause The 17th Annual Komen Boise Race for the Cure® is right around the corner. Join fellow runners Saturday, May 9 at 9 am at 250 East Parkcenter Boulevard for the start (and finish) in front of Albertson’s Headquarters. The Kendall Ford competitive 5K race starts at 9 am with line up starting at 8:45am. At 9:10 am the 5K fun run/walk starts along with a 1-mile walk through the streets of Boise. Jazzercise warm-up starts at 8 am. Be sure to stop by the Survivor Tent to pick up your back tags “in memory of” or
“in celebration of” before the race. Fundraising Awards and Survivor Drawing will be at the Expo Stage at 10:30 am. Register online at idaho.info-komen.org or call 208-384-0013 for more information. It has been said that there are four things you cannot take back, the spoken word, a shot arrow, time passed, and a missed opportunity. Do not miss this opportunity to enjoy a lovely spring morning with friends together racing for a cure. Make it
a point to congratulate those wearing the pink hats and t-shirts; they are honored guests. Celebrate their courage and strength. Up to 75% of the proceeds from the Race fund local breast cancer education, screening, and treatment programs. Twenty-five percent will help fund the Susan G. Komen for the Cure National Grant Program. This year’s race promises to be both fun and inspiring. ISI
Enjoy These Magnificent Rivers By Bernice Karnop When we think of animal migrations, we usually turn our eyes skyward and think of the amazing bird species or butterflies that travel hundreds and thousands of miles, magically navigating their way to nesting grounds and the production of the next generation. Or one might think of the great animal migrations like the bison thundering across the prairie before it was fenced or massive herds of caribou in the far north. In Idaho, folks know that there is a yearly migration under the waters of its rivers and streams that rivals any on earth or in the skies. The rock stars of fish migration include the sockeye and Chinook salmon, and the steelhead trout. Some migrate as much as 900 miles from the Pacific Ocean up the Columbia, Clearwater, Snake, and Salmon rivers, climbing 6,500 feet in elevation to reach the Sawtooth Valley in Central Idaho’s Mountains. The steelhead is an anadromous fish that is hatched in fresh water, migrates to the ocean where it can spend a majority of its life, and then returns to fresh water to spawn and die. The same species that doesn’t migrate is called a rainbow trout. They have the same speckled olive color with a silver belly and the signature pink stripe down their side. The steelhead female digs a nest, called a “redd,” with her tail in a gravely area and deposits her eggs. The male fertilizes the eggs as they are deposited and she covers them up again. The juvenile fish hatch in three or four weeks and can spend as long as seven years in freshwater before they migrate to the ocean, where they can spend up to three years before returning to fresh water to spawn and continue the cycle. Anglers speak of steelhead in two categories, A-run and B-run. A-run steelhead are usually found in the Snake and Salmon Rivers. They come back earlier in the year than B-run steelhead, from June through August. Average weight is 4-6 pounds, and average length is 23-26 inches long. The Clearwater River, which flows into the
Snake at Lewiston, is famous for its B-run steelhead. These fish spend two years cruising the ocean and come back bigger and feistier than their cousins. They usually start their migration in late August or September and their average weight is 10-13 pounds and length is 31-34 inches. If they dawdle around in the Pacific for another year, they may return weighing more than 20 pounds. The record steelhead caught in the Clearwater weighed a little better than 30 pounds. Anglers love pursuing these big fish, although many fisheries are catch and release. All along these rivers, anglers can find guides who will outfit them and take them where they can enjoy the fishing. Other catches include small-mouth bass, sturgeon, and catfish. Of course, there are many other recreational temptations along the rivers, and many of them piggyback with fishing. Hell’s Canyon, the deepest gorge in North America, is always an adventure to visit, whether a person is fishing or floating, canoeing, kayaking, or jet boating through its depths. It’s full of wildlife and birds, so a pair of field glasses is nice. There are many evidences of early human life in the canyon, not the least of which are some welldefined and wonderfully preserved petroglyphs. Of course, the Salmon River is known for its remote rafting adventures as well as its fishing and hunting. Called the “river of no return,” the 425-mile Salmon River is one of the longest free-flowing rivers in the United States and is second only to Hells Canyon in depth – both deeper than the Grand Canyon. It offers spectacular scenery and many wilderness adventures that will remind you of the magnificence of these untrammeled areas where people are
only visitors. For more information and to locate an outfitter who can help plan your vacation, do a Google search, visit hellscanyonvisitor.com, or recreation. gov/wildernessAreaDetails.do?contractCode=NR SO&parkId=75533. ISI
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Smartphone Options for the Tech-Shy By Jim Miller Dear Savvy Senior, I’m interested in getting my 72-year-old mother a smartphone, but want to get one that’s very easy for her to use. What can you recommend? Shopping Around Dear Shopping, There are several different ways you can go about getting a simplified smartphone that’s easy to use. Depending on how much you’re willing to spend, here are some different options to consider. Simplify a Used Phone. The cheapest way to an easy-to-use, uncomplicated smartphone is to get a second-hand android phone, and install a “launcher app” on it, which is a user interface software application. This type of launcher will turn the appearance and performance of most android smartphones into a simplified phone with big understandable icons for commonly used features (phone, text messaging, camera, contacts, etc.) and no excess clutter. Most launchers can also be customized to fit your individual needs and preferences. There is a variety of launcher apps available today that provide this type of technology and are completely free to use. Some popular options include Necta Launcher (launcher.necta.us), Wiser (wiser-me.com), Seniors Phone (seniorsphone.mobi), Fontrillo (fontrillo.com), and Big Launcher (biglauncher.
com), which also offers an upgraded version for $9. Or, if you have an old Apple iPhone that you’d like to convert, check out Silverline Mobile (silverline.mobi) that converts both Apple and androids free. Purchase a New Phone. If you’re interested in purchasing a new smartphone, you have options here too. For starters, you could purchase a smartphone that’s specifically designed for seniors, like GreatCall’s Touch3 that costs $150 (with no contract) at greatcall.com or 800-918-8543. This is an android phone made by Samsung that has a 4-inch touchscreen and provides a simple menu list to often-used features like the phone, text messages, camera, pictures, email and Internet, along with your contacts and apps. It also offers a variety of health and safety features like the “5Star app” that would let the caller speak to a certified agent 24/7 that could identify location and get needed help. “Urgent Care” that provides access to registered nurses and doctors for advice and diagnoses. And “MedCoach,” which sends medication reminders. Another way you could go is to purchase a standard/mainstream smartphone that provides a built-in “Easy Mode” or “Simple” feature in the settings. This will let you convert the phone into a much simpler mode of operation that provides larger, well-labeled icons, to only commonly used functions like the phone, camera, messaging, Internet, pictures, contacts, and favorite apps. Smartphones that offer the “Easy Mode” or “Simple” feature include the Samsung Galaxy phones, which are available through most cell phone carriers at prices typically ranging between $400 and $850 without a contract. Or, for a more budget-friendly option, the Huawei Vision 2 and Huawei Ascend Mate 2, which you can buy as an unlocked phone or through Consumer Cellular (consumercellular.com, 888-345-5509) for $80 or $225 without a contract. Consumer Cellular is a top-rated no-contract service provider that also offers discounts to AARP members. One nice advantage of buying mom a mainstream phone is that if you master the Easy/Simple mode (or get bored with it) you can always switch the phone back to the standard operation mode exposing more options. You can also add any number of health and safety features to the phone, like what the Touch3 offers, by downloading apps at greatcall.com/medical-apps. Send your senior questions to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of The Savvy Senior book. ISI
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IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 13
Five Quick Ways To Upgrade Your Home For Resale (NAPSI) – Whether you’re considering cashing in on your equity, downsizing, trading up, moving for retirement, or relocating for better prospects, a few smart investments and improvements can help your home stand out from the competition so you get top dollar. Even if you’re not planning to move anytime soon, these strategies can maximize your home’s value and increase its marketability: • Sprucing up the exterior. If you think you’ll have a few years before you move, work on your landscaping now to give plants time to mature. Look for easy-care perennials such as hostas, which multiply on their own. If you have less time, you can still achieve a quick makeover by power washing paths and siding, painting or upgrading your front door and keeping the lawn watered and
weeded. • Removing eyesores inside. Some minor adjustments can help buyers recognize what’s great about your home. Swap outdated fixtures, remove wallpaper, and give everything a deep clean. Replacements don’t have to be top of the line; they just need to eliminate hang-ups for potential buyers. • Improving the kitchen – to a point. You probably won’t recoup the cost of a full kitchen renovation but smaller projects such as upgrading appliances and painting or refinishing cabinets can modernize the space. • Refreshing rooms with neutral paint. This is a time-honored tip for a reason. While seeing your favorite bold hues on the walls makes you
happy, potential buyers may not agree. A fresh coat of neutral paint can help them envision their own belongings in the space. • Focusing on energy efficiency. The right energy-smart upgrades can assure buyers they’re seeing an efficient home where utility bills can be minimized. Adding insulation to the attic and walls can make a dramatic improvement in many homes. Consider the windows as well. Adding a heat-rejecting window film such as 3M Sun Control Window Film can reduce cooling costs and typically does not change the windows’ appearance. Since the window film can reject up to 99 percent of UV rays, it can protect the investment you made in your hardwood floors, rugs, window treatments, furniture, and artwork. ISI
Age is something that doesn’t matter, unless you are a cheese.
The North Idaho College Foundation’s Really BIG Raffle The North Idaho College Foundation’s Really BIG Raffle is a great way to support student scholarships and program needs and… if you are lucky, win BIG! With a good cause at stake and prizes that include a brand new secondary waterfront home in Coeur d’Alene, a car, and a boat, the event is a winning combination. Now in its 22nd year, NIC’s largest annual fundraiser is underway with only 5,000 tickets being sold for the upcoming July 8, 2015 drawing where over $335,000 in prizes will be awarded. Tickets are $100 each. Located in the highly sought after Mill River neighborhood in Coeur d’Alene, the grand prize
home is a three-bedroom, two-bath single level craftsman style home. Features include solid surface counters, skylights, central A/C, and a covered front porch. The home is secondary waterfront with access to a private, gated, waterfront park with a sandy beach, picnic tables, and volleyball court. Students in the college’s carpentry program built the home as a practical learning lab for their trade. The raffle is a fun event that typically generates around $200,000 in support for NIC students. For more information call 208-769-3271 or visit nic.edu/ rbr. ISI
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Grow Your Best Tomato Yet
By Melinda Myers Nothing beats the flavor of fresh-from-the-garden tomatoes. Make this your biggest and tastiest tomato harvest yet with proper planting and care. Reduce pest problems and increase the harvest by growing your tomatoes in a sunny location with well-drained soil or in a quality potting mix for container gardens. Improve your garden soil by adding several inches of organic matter to the top eight to twelve inches of soil prior to planting. Compost, aged manure, and other organic materials help improve drainage in heavy clay soil and increase the water holding ability of sandy soil. Add a slow release organic nitrogen fertilizer
according to label directions at planting. Slow release fertilizers provide a constant diet that is better for your plants and less work for you. Save yourself more time by mixing the fertilizer into the soil when incorporating the organic matter. Then give your plants a midseason boost as needed. Once the soil is prepared, wait for the air and soil to warm to plant your tomatoes. Planting too early when the soil is still cool and the nights are chilly can stress the plant and delay your harvest. Plant your tomatoes slightly deeper or in a trench for better rooting. Trench tomatoes by digging a shallow trench about 3-4 inches deep. Remove the lower leaves and lay the plant on its
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side in the hole. Roots will eventually form along the stem. Carefully bend the stem, so the upper leaves will be above the soil. Fill the trench with soil and water. Stake or tower your tomatoes to reduce insect and disease problems and make harvesting easier. The type of tomato and your schedule will help determine the training system that works best for you. Determinate tomatoes (look for the “D” on the tag) grow a certain height and stop. They work well in towers, containers, or even hanging baskets. Indeterminate tomatoes, labeled with an “I”, keep growing taller, producing more flowers and fruit until the end of the growing season. These do best when grown on tall sturdy stakes or extra tall strong towers. Towering tomatoes is easy. Simply place the tower over the tomatoes at planting. Tomatoes grown in towers produce a larger, but later harvest than staked tomato plants. Allow a bit more time if you decide to stake your plants. Place the stake in the ground at planting. Be careful not to injure the roots. As the plants begin to grow prune off all side branches and suckers that develop between the main stem and leaves. Loosely tie the remaining one or two stems to the stake. Cloth strips, twine, or other soft ties work well. Keep tying up the plants as they continue to grow. Staked tomatoes produce the earliest and smallest harvest.
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Check new plantings every few days and water often enough to keep the developing root system moist. Reduce frequency as plants become established. Water established plants thoroughly whenever the top few inches of soil are slightly moist. Mulch the soil with evergreen needles, shredded leaves or other organic mulch to keep the soil consistently moist and suppress weeds. Consistent soil moisture encourages more flowering and fruiting, while reducing the risk of blossom end rot, cracking, and misshapen fruit. Harvest your tomatoes when fully colored. Leave them on the plant an extra 5 or 6 days for even better flavor. Unfortunately, the animals often move in and feast on the ripening fruit. In this case, you may need to finish ripening tomatoes indoors. Once you taste that first red ripe tomato, you will be looking for more sunny spots for containers or to expand your garden. Gardening expert, TV/radio host, author & columnist Melinda Myers has more than 30 years of horticulture experience and has written over 20 gardening books, including Can’t Miss Small Space Gardening and the Midwest Gardener’s Handbook. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” DVD series and the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment segments. Myers is also a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine. Myers’ web site, melindamyers.com, offers gardening videos and tips. ISI
Simple Steps to Seed Starting Success By Melinda Myers Get a jump on the growing season by starting your favorite or hard to find plants indoors from seeds. Starting hard-to-find plants, like many of the heirloom or newly introduced varieties, from seed may be the only way you will be able to add these to your garden. Plus, you’ll be extending the growing season and bringing the fun of gardening indoors. All you need is a little space, a few supplies, and of course seeds to get started. Check the back of your seed packets for planting directions. Most recommend when and how to start seeds indoors as well as any other special care the seedlings will need. Purchase, recycle, or make your own containers from newspaper. Sanitize used pots by dipping them in a one part bleach and nine parts water solution and then rinsing them with clean water. Fill the containers with a sterile well-drained potting mix or seed starting mix. Once the containers are filled, plant the seeds according to the seed packet directions. For most seeds, plant them twice their diameter deep and gently water. Continue to water often enough to keep the soil slightly moist. Extend the time between watering and increase your seed starting success by covering the container with plastic. Or purchase a seed starting kit from your local or online garden supplier. Move your containers to a sunny window as soon as the seedlings emerge from the soil. Turn plants often to encourage even growth. Or increase your success by growing seedlings under artificial lights. You can make your own light system or purchase tabletop, shelf units, or easy to assemble light systems. Keep the lights four to six inches above the top of the seedlings for best results. As the seedlings grow, be sure to maintain this distance by simply raising the lights or lowering the containers. Move overcrowded seedlings to larger containers once they have two sets of true leaves. The first leaves that appear are rather indistinct and are called seed leaves. The next set of leaves look more like the mature plant’s leaves and are called true leaves. Once the next set of true leaves forms, it is time to transplant overcrowded seedlings. Use a fork or spoon carefully to lift out the seedling. Clusters of seedlings can be dug and carefully teased apart before planting in individual pots. Be careful not to pinch and damage the young tender stems. Place seedlings in their own clean container filled with moist sterile potting mix. Plant the young plants at the same depth they were growing in the original container. Thin seedlings started in individual containers as needed. If you planted several seeds in each
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small container, remove all but the healthiest one. Prune the weaker seedlings to ground level, so the remaining seedling can develop into a strong transplant for the garden. Continue to grow your plants in a sunny window or under artificial lights and water thoroughly and often enough to keep the soil slightly moist.
IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 15
And before you know it, the weather will be warm enough to move your homegrown transplants into the garden. Gardening expert, TV/radio host, author & columnist Melinda Myers has more than 30 years of horticulture experience and has written over 20 gardening books, including Can’t Miss Small Space Gardening and the Midwest Gardener’s
Antiques – The Modern Day Treasure Hunt By Tom Murphy In today’s world, everything that’s old can be described as an antique and generally, that’s quite true. A product is considered an antique if it is over 100 years old or is rare enough to have some value. In other words, these old items are in limited supply. An antique is something collectible. It may be a piece of antique furniture that you want to collect to enhance the look of a room, a piece of antique pottery to decorate a corner cupboard, books, a camera and photographs, antique jewelry, antique money, an antique car, antique clocks, old documents, or an antique watch that you want to hand down to your grandchildren – but the items must be rare enough to be considered an antique. The others are just secondhand goods junk. Most people have a common misconception about an antique: the older it looks, the more antique it must be. Appearance has nothing to do with it, just because a piece looks like it came out of grandma’s attic does not necessarily mean that it’s an antique. The value of an antique is based on demand due to suitability and limited supply. Most people become fascinated with an antique for two reasons; either they have an interest in collecting antiques purely for personal enjoyment and are willing to shell out money for antique restoration or they inherited it from a family member. However they came about it, everyone wants to be sure that what they buy or inherit will appreciate over time. That is what
antique collection is all about. There are two main principles that apply when collecting an antique: The first is to know everything that you can about the antique that interests you and second is to obtain them at the lowest possible price. Doing so will not only give you satisfaction and enjoyment, but also you will be assured that your investment will appreciate. Some people only develop an interest in an antique because they inherited an item or a whole house full of antiques from a relative. The dollar signs started to appear and they began their search for antique appraisals and antique auctions. But what most failed to consider is that much of what great grandmother had is probably just junk, unless she was a seasoned and knowledgeable collector. It’s true that people could have bought a piece of furniture to decorate their home a long time ago and that furniture, if it were of fine quality, would now be worth something. But only a professional appraiser can accurately assess the value. So if you are keen on bringing your item to an antique auction and contemplating asking someone how much an item is worth, be prepared to pay a fee for the appraisal. Appraisers charge fees because their opinions form the basis for insurance coverage and estate valuations. Although appraising is not an exact science, it does require a certified appraiser to do the research and prepare a detailed report that’s acceptable in a court of law. ISI
Good Food, Great Doughnuts in The Little Apple, Manhattan, Kansas By Ann Hattes Superlative doughnuts, fine dining, and super breakfast food are all found in Manhattan, Kansas, located in the midst of the Flint Hills, home to a grassland sea. Here is the largest remaining tract of tallgrass prairie in North America. Learn about the geologic formations of the grasslands, the diverse flora and fauna, and the unseen ecosystem below the prairie at the Flint Hills Discovery Center in downtown Manhattan. Drive the Flint Hills National Scenic Byway and hike the trails of the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve. Horseback ride while listening to the prairie birds sing, and stargaze the night skies. Before and after your explorations, indulge in good food in The Little Apple. The Chef, a breakfast café that has been featured in the Food Network Magazine, will get your day off to a grand start. In addition to a classic breakfast, choices include a BELT (BLT with egg), PB & J pancakes, frittatas, homemade corned beef hash, and pancakes banana foster – two cakes topped with dark rum banana pecan sauce served with two slices of bacon! Early Edition, another breakfast spot, offers specialties like Potato Eggs Benedict, a Cajun skillet, breakfast burrito, or quesadilla. After a busy day of activities in the out of doors, wind down at the Little Apple Brewing Company where they offer food as good as their craft beer, even growing their own herbs on site. For fine dining, try Harry’s in the historic 1920s Wareham Hotel. It has been rated by Open Table as one of the top American cuisine restaurants several years in a row, and is winner of the Best Chefs America Award, a chef’s guide to chefs. Specialties include Harry’s Meatloaf and Harry’s “Kobe” Wagyu Burger, made with Nebraska raised beef. The 4 Olives Restaurant and Wine Bar, winner of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, serves ultra-fresh fish, wild game, artisan cheeses, local ingredients as much as possible, with every item made in-house. A few miles out of town, the Flint Hills Flying W Ranch, a working cattle ranch and guest ranch, offers an authentic cowboy experience with trail rides, cattle drives, campfire cooking, and even gourmet dining. Owner/chef Josh Hoy has trained at the Culinary Institute of America and will cater meals to complement your ranch stay! For snacks, it’s definitely Varsity Doughnuts in Aggieville near Kansas State University. In addition to a choice of a myriad of fat and fluffy doughnuts,
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Handbook. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” DVD series and the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment segments. Myers is also a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine. Myers’ web site, melindamyers.com, offers gardening videos and tips. ISI
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PAGE 16 IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT
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you can rent vintage bikes, buy Frisbees, and play board games or the piano. Eat some doughnuts here and buy more to take on your outing. Will it be a pistachio doughnut, maple bar, or the super popular long john with bacon? S’mores fans have a doughnut filled with marshmallow fluff, topped with chocolate frosting and graham cracker crumbs! And for those who get a craving in the middle of the night, on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, Varsity Doughnuts has a truck out back serving hot doughnuts to the crowd from 10 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. Doughnuts aren’t just for special occasions, boardwalks, or carnivals. Inspiring and influencing cultures and regions around the world for centuries, there’s nothing more satisfying than a doughnut. Now there’s no reason to limit yourself to the bakery counter! Chef Kamal Grant of Atlanta’s Sublime Doughnuts shows you how to make creative, delicious doughnuts in your home kitchen in his cookbook, Homemade Doughnuts
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(Quarry Books). In addition to basic techniques, there are mouth-watering glazes, delicious icings, and bourbon-inspired fillings. Try the no-fuss Canned Biscuit Doughnuts. Canned Biscuit Doughnuts (Courtesy of Homemade Doughnuts, Quarry Books). Makes about 16 doughnuts. 4 cups peanut oil, for frying 2 cans (16.3 ounces) large, ready-to-cook buttermilk biscuits Pour the oil to a depth of 2 inches into a Dutch oven and heat to 370 degrees F on the stove top. Lay out the biscuits on a cutting board and with a 1 & ½ -inch round cookie or biscuit cutter, cut out a hole from the middle of each biscuit. Fry three or four biscuits at a time in the oil until golden and then flip with tongs to fry the other side, about 3 minutes total. You can also fry the doughnut holes, a handful at a time, until golden, about 2 minutes. You don’t need to flip them, but make sure they are submerged in the oil. Transfer to paper towels to drain. Lemon-Thyme Glaze (Courtesy of Homemade Doughnuts, Quarry Books) Lemon and thyme pair well together. Lemon is always refreshing, but the addition of thyme gives it an increased depth of flavor. Yield: Makes 2 cups. Zest of 1 lemon 1 pound confectioners’ sugar 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme leaves ¾ cup fresh lemon juice Add the lemon zest, confectioners’ sugar, and thyme to a bowl and mix thoroughly. Slowly add the lemon juice and stir until the desired consistency is reached. After the doughnuts are cool, submerge half of the doughnut in the glaze, turn over and repeat on the other side. Allow to drip dry. Candied Bacon (Courtesy of Homemade Doughnuts, Quarry Books). Yield: Makes 3 cups. 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup ¼ cup packed brown sugar ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 pound thick-sliced bacon Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (or gas mark 4) Place the maple syrup, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a large bowl. Mix well. Add the bacon to the bowl and toss gently with your hands. Make sure that all of the slices are evenly coated. Place the bacon in a single layer on a wire rack on a baking sheet. Bake in the center of the oven until mahogany brown in color, about 20 to 30 minutes. Let cool, then chop as desired. ISI
Funeral Planning On A Budget
By Jim Miller Planning your funeral is a wise move. Not only does it give you time to make a thoughtful decision on the type of service you want, it also allows you to shop around to find a good funeral provider, and it will spare your kids the stress of making these decisions at an emotional time. Here are some tips to help you find affordable services. Compare Providers – Choosing a quality funeral home is your first step and most important decision in preplanning your funeral. No matter what type of funeral or memorial service you envision for yourself, it is wise to talk with several funeral homes because prices and services can vary. Websites like funeraldecisions.com and funeralpricefinder.com can help you compare. When comparing, be sure you take advantage of the “funeral rule.” This is a federal law that requires funeral home directors to provide you with an itemized price list of their products and services so you can choose exactly what you want. Be sure to ask for it. Money Savers – With the average cost of a “full-service” funeral running around $10,000, there are ways to save that few people know about. For example,
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if a traditional funeral and burial is what you are interested in, you can save big – at least 50 percent – by purchasing your casket from a store versus the funeral home, and your funeral provider must accept it. Two good casket-shopping resources that may surprise you are Wal-Mart (visit walmart. com and type in “casket” in their search engine) and Costco (costco.com) who offers its members a large variety of caskets and urns at discounted prices. Another way to cut your funeral bill is to request a “direct burial” or “direct cremation.” With these options, your body would be buried or cremated shortly after death, which skips the embalming and viewing. If your family wants a memorial service, they can have it at the graveside or later without the body. These services usually cost between $1,000 and $2,000, not counting cemetery charges. Should You Prepay? Be aware that preplanning your funeral does not mean you have
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to prepay too. But if you are considering paying in advance, be cautious. Prepaid plans are not regulated by federal law and state regulation is uneven. Before you sign anything, here are some areas you need to be very clear on: • Be sure you know exactly what you are paying for before committing. • Are the prices locked in or will an additional payment be required at the time of death? • What happens if you move to a different area or die while away from home? Some prepaid funeral plans can be transferred, but often at an added cost. • Are you protected if the funeral home goes out of business or if it is bought out by another company? • Can you cancel the contract and get a full refund if you change your mind? • If you do decide to prepay, get all the details
of the agreement in writing, have the funeral director sign it, and give copies to your family so they know what is expected. Other Payment Options – There are other ways to set aside money for your funeral, rather than giving it to a funeral home. You can set up a payable-on-death, or POD account at your bank, naming the person you want to handle your arrangements as the beneficiary. With this type of account, you maintain control of your money, so if you need funds for medical expenses or something else, you can withdraw it at any time. This type of fund is also available immediately at the time of your death without the delay of probate. Send your senior questions to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of The Savvy Senior book. ISI
The Gunslinger And The Prospector She walked up and tied her old prospecting mule to the hitching post. As she stood there, brushing some of the dust from her face and clothes, a young gunslinger stepped out of the saloon with a gun in one hand and a bottle of whiskey in the other. The young gunslinger looked at the old woman and said with a laugh, “Hey old woman, have you ever danced?” The trail-worn woman looked up at the gunslinger and said, “No, I never did dance... never really wanted to.” A crowd had gathered as the gunslinger grinned and said, “Well, you old bag, you’re gonna dance now!” And he started shooting at the old woman’s feet. The old woman prospector not wanting to get her toe blown off – started hopping around as everybody laughed at her. When his last bullet had been fired, the young gunslinger, still laughing, holstered his gun and turned around to go back into the saloon. The old woman turned to her pack mule, pulled out a double-barreled shotgun, and cocked both hammers. The loud clicks cut through the desert air, and the
crowd stopped laughing. The young gunslinger heard the sounds, too, and he turned around very slowly. The silence was almost deafening. The crowd watched as the young gunman stared at the old woman and the large gaping holes of those twin barrels. The barrels of the shotgun never wavered in the old woman’s hands, as she quietly said, “Son, have you ever kissed a mule’s behind?” The gunslinger paused, swallowed hard, and said, “No m’am. But, I’ve always wanted to.” This story can teach us all a few lessons: • Never be arrogant. • Don’t waste ammunition. • Whiskey makes you think you’re smarter than you are. • Always know who has the power. • Finally, do not mess with old women; they didn’t get old by being stupid. ISI
What Is The Answer? Submitted by Julie Brantley A proud and confident genius made a bet with a simple-minded gent. The genius said, “Hey, every question I ask you that you don’t know the answer to, you have to give me $5. And, if you ask me a question and I can’t answer, I will give you $5,000.” The simple-minded fellow said, “Okay.” The genius then asked, “How many continents are there in the world?” The simple-minded gent did not know the answer and handed over $5. Then the slow fellow asked the genius, “What animal stands with two legs but sleeps with three?” The genius tried, thought, and searched his brain for the answer, but gave up and handed over $5,000. The genius then asked, “Dang, I lost. By the way, what was the answer to your question?” The simple-minded gent handed over $5. ISI
Answsers to Observances - continued from page 9 Pg Observance 26. 39 February 9 is Read in the Bathtub Day 27. 39 March 1-7 is Return the Borrowed Books Week 28. 40 March 22-28 is Root Canal Awareness Week 29. 40 February 8-14 is Secondhand Wardrobe Week 30. 40 February 28 is Sword Swallower’s Day 31. 42 February is Spunky Old Broads Month 32. 42 February is Women Inventors Month 33. 43 February 19 is The Great American Spit Out 34. 43 February 15-21 is Through with the Chew Week 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13.
Pg 8 14 17 18 19 19 24 30 31 31 32 40 41
Observance March 2 is Dr. Seuss Day March 19 is Companies that Care Day March 16-22 is Wellderly Week February 8-14 is Jell-O Week February 1-7 is Solo Diners Eat Out Week February is Barley Month March is Women’s Month: March is Workplace Eye Wellness Month February 14 is Women’s Heart Day March 1-7 is Sleep Awareness Week February is Boost Self-Esteem Month February is Hot Breakfast Month March 1 is Compliment Day
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Coping With Arthritis By Tait Trussell Snake venom is not recommended for arthritis – at least not by the National Institute on Aging. Neither are those copper bracelets you see some people wearing hopefully. Almost anyone who is in the category of a Medicare beneficiary has arthritis. If you don’t, you undoubtedly will eventually. “Arthritis is one of the most common diseases in the United States. Older people most often have osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or gout,” says the Institute on Aging. Osteoarthritis (OA) is most common. It begins to make your acquaintance when the cartilage, the tissue that pads bones in a joint, begins to wear away. When this happens, you wish that you hadn’t been a jogger when you were younger. But it’s not confined to the knees, of course. Arthritis pain can occur in the neck, hands, lower back, and hips. Symptoms range from stiffness to mild pain to worse pain that just won’t go away. There are means of relief, however, which you may have found. If not, I’ll list a few later. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) – as contrasted with osteoarthritis – is a kind of disease that makes the body attack itself. It causes stiffness, pain, and swelling and can affect many locations at the same time. You can even run a fever with it. Women – misfortunate in other ailments – are victims more often than men are. RA also can cause heart problems, troubles with your muscles and nervous system, even your eyes. Gout is quite painful. It occurs most often in
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the big toe, which becomes red or purple and very tender. Eating liver, dried beans, peas, and anchovies can lead to a gout attack, as can certain blood pressure medicines. Some medicines can help with arthritis. Acetaminophen is one. NSAIDs (nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs) are another. But beware of side effects of NSAIDs. Using a cane when walking can ease the pain in the knees and hips. But the NIOA says to “make sure the cane is fitted by a professional. Don’t just borrow one from a friend.” Professional cane fitters are not prevalent. But your doctor might help. Daily exercise, such as walking or swimming can help. It makes the muscles around the joints stronger. Suggested exercises include strengthening exercises, such as weight training; aerobic exercises, such as bike riding, and dancing (I picture myself when I was in the Navy in World War II and won a jitterbug contest at a USO. Those days are gone forever.); and stretching such as yoga or Pilates. NIA’s Go4Life campaign is an excellent way to help you start a safe exercise program. You can learn about it by going to nia.gov/Go4Life. Acupuncture may help some people. Glucosamine and chondroitin may help, but they “seem to have no effect on changes to cartilage in the knee,” the IOA says. Work with your doctor safely to lessen the pain and stiffness. Also make use of Internet information by visiting rheumatology.org and arthritis.org. In the meantime, keep moving. ISI
Wanted: Amateurs To Put The Audience To Sleep
By Renée Henning I am a volunteer in the neonatal and pediatric wards of a major hospital. I sing, sometimes off-key, to infants and toddlers. Having crooned to hundreds of small children one-on-one since the late 1980s, I know that many youngsters would benefit from live music. Therefore, I propose that more people offer to serenade the little ones and that hospitals welcome such volunteers. The demands of this charitable activity are not great. A hospital ward requires neither full command of the lyrics nor a beautiful voice. I am the proof! Normally the baby or toddler never heard the song before, so the performer can forget words and miss high notes for all his listener knows. However, there is one harsh requirement. After growing fond of a youngster, the singer may arrive one week to hear that the child died. The volunteer must accept that not every patient survives. In my experience, toddlers and babies, including preemies that should still be in the womb, respond positively to many genres of music. They particularly appreciate upbeat, bouncy tunes sung softly several times over. The performer should avoid for these listeners sad songs and inappropriate lyrics. When the parents arrive, nobody should be serenading their little darling with “You ain’t nothin’ but a hound dog, cryin’ all the time!”
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I suggest three tests for judging a hospital recital for these children. If the performer handed a howling baby satisfies one, the concert is a success. The first test is snoozing. Particularly prized in a hospital is the singer who puts his audience to sleep! My best performance under this test took place in a crowded ward. That day a baby and I were assigned a small space between two mothers breast-feeding their infants. When my recital ended, all three babies and one of the two mothers were sound asleep! The second test is relaxing. A performer for infants tries to send the child into the alpha state. Under this test, the baby, though awake, is so mellow and “boneless” after the concert that he appears to have turned into Jell-O. The third test, the medical improvement test, requires some sign, even small or temporary, of an improvement in the child’s physical condition. Numerous patients are attached to oxygen, tubes, and wires. Often their monitors show wild swings in the vital signs. Frequently I have seen the swings lessen or the baby’s breathing become more regular during a gig. This improvement cannot be solely attributable to hugging because sometimes the patient was lying in a crib. Another common area for medical improvement involves food. Many newborns need to gain
weight to be discharged. With music, I have often jollied underweight infants into drinking more baby formula than usual. I first realized the connection between music and food intake in the early 1990s. One day, after feeding and serenading every infant in the pediatric ward in turn, I overheard a nurse say, “I don’t know what’s going on today! All of the babies are eating incredible amounts!” Singing can have a positive nutritional and medicinal affects even on infants fed through a tube. Based on my observations, a concert can sometimes prevent a child from spitting up food and the medication provided with it. A baby born addicted to cocaine and heroin starred in one of my better performances under the medical improvement test. Like other infants experiencing withdrawal, she was agitated and jittery. After I held and crooned to her awhile, she was calm. I have had similar experiences with other infant addicts. Intrigued, her nurse decided to administer a test while having me sing and cuddle the child. Despite the girl’s poor showing (50%), the nurse was delighted. That was the highest the baby had ever scored. Some minors, including patients hospitalized for months, have parents who seldom visit. They could use someone to dispense music and cheer. In fact, music therapy is a recognized profession. The therapist meets with clients in a hospital,
Dementia and Anesthesia: is there a connection? By Mark M. Havens Director of Community Relations Wedgewood Terrace Assisted Living Does anesthesia cause or accelerate demen-
tia? That question brought Dr. Lynette Charity to Wedgewood Terrace Assisted Living Community in Lewiston, Idaho recently to teach a public seminar on the aftereffects of anesthesia used in surgery. Dr. Charity is a board-certified anesthesiologist who has anesthetized over 25,000 patients in her 35 years of academic and clinical experience. Having earned her medical degree from Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston, Dr. Charity completed her anesthesiology residency at the Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Hospital in Boston.
Her training in neuroanesthesia was completed at the University of San Francisco’s Moffitt Hospital. After her training, Dr. Charity joined the U.S. Army Medical Corps. She completed her military service with the rank of Lt. Colonel at Madigan Army Medical Center in Tacoma. For the past 14 years, she has maintained a practice in Richland, Wash. where she is a past Chief of Anesthesiology at Kadlec Medical Center. Dr. Charity covered the history of anesthesia and the differences between local, regional, and general anesthesia. Then she shared with the audience that, no – contrary to popu-
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IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 19
prison, office, or elsewhere. Unfortunately for cost reasons, a hospital may assign the professional few children and only fifteen minutes per youngster. In contrast, I spend up to three hours of my three-hour session singing to a child. Some studies indicate that infant patients receiving music therapy eat more, cry less, and leave the hospital sooner. Amateur recitals present a “win-win” opportunity for the volunteer and his audience. The singer expands his song repertoire, gains the satisfaction of helping youngsters, and has fun in the process. His listener profits from the cheery break. Indeed, women over the centuries who sang to their grandchildren were wise. Based on my experience and that of professional music therapists, many young patients would benefit physically and emotionally from a private concert. For all these youngsters, I hope there is somebody willing to sing. ISI
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lar belief – anesthesia does not trigger or advance Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias. She based her conclusion on a study released by the Mayo Clinic in 2013 that found “there was no association between exposure to procedures under general anesthesia after age 45 and an increased risk of dementia.” The study examined evidence over a nine-year period involving 1,754 residents of Olmstead County, Minn. This study is considered the most comprehensive one ever done on this topic, and the most authoritative. Still, the perception persists among some people – and even some medical professionals – that anesthesia can trigger Alzheimer’s disease in some people. Dr. Charity said that what some people are calling dementia is actually one of two conditions that science knows a lot about but that do not conform to the elements of dementia: either post-operative delirium or post-operative cognitive dysfunction. Post-operative delirium subsequent to exposure to anesthesia is not uncommon, and is most often seen in older patients, ages 70+. Between 30-50% of major surgery patients may develop this disturbance, while up to 60% of cardiac patients will develop this disturbance. Other risk factors for developing this delirium include alcohol abuse, urinary tract infection, vision or hearing impairment, electrolyte imbalance, malnutrition, and depression. Symptoms are usually seen on day one or two after surgery and can be worse at night. Recovery is usually within a few days, however in older patients it can persist for weeks or even months. Post-operative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a decline in cognitive performance (as measured by standardized testing of memory, concentration,
or fine motor skills) from before surgery to after surgery. Unlike delirium, these symptoms may arise – if at all – from one to two weeks after surgery. Risk factors for POCD encompass all the same ones as for delirium, but the risks are increased if the patient already has cognitive or physical impairments or acute pain before surgery, or if the surgery is of long duration or orthopedic in nature. Up to 30% of major surgery patients in their older years may experience POCD, with up to 50% of cardiac surgery patients exhibiting the impairments. Dr. Charity explained that these impairments are not caused by anesthesia but are most likely caused by micro-bubbles or micro-clots introduced into the blood stream during surgery despite the best efforts of the surgeon and anesthesiologist. Post-operative cognitive impairment is not Alzheimer’s, Dr. Charity insisted, which is a degenerative brain disease. POCD usually resolves itself in 3-6 months in patients who experience it, but in 10% of patients it can last for up to two years. Less than 1% of surgery patients may still exhibit POCD more than two years after their surgeries. Dr. Charity reassured the audience that they should never avoid necessary surgery due to fears of the anesthesia. Patients should schedule a pre-operative consultation with their surgeon and anesthesiologist to get all of their questions answered. You need to provide a complete medical history along with a list of all the medications you take. This list needs to include all herbal remedies and dietary supplements you take, some of which can interfere with anesthesia. Discontinuing such over-the-counter supplements two weeks prior to surgery is advised. ISI
Times Have Changed — and So Have Hearing Aids By Dr. Jessie Dimmick Americans put off treating health conditions. On average in fact, a patient will wait seven years to treat hearing loss. While the reasons may differ, the consequences are the same. The result of untreated hearing loss affects quality of life and cognition. In other words, hearing loss has the potential to change you. Like many other health conditions, early treatment of hearing loss is key to long-term success. So what’s holding you back? Why do people wait to seek treatment? Many patients say the fear of having a negative experience is the most common barrier to getting help. “My mother/friend/brother/neighbor had hearing aids, and they didn’t work.” “What if I don’t like them?” “Hearing aids are for people worse off than I am.” Times have changed, and so have hearing aids. The whole experience of fitting a hearing aid has changed too. It’s time for a different point of view. To gain a better understanding of the journey to better hearing, I interviewed a baby boomer and retired professional, Gary — who, like many others, waited to treat his hearing loss. Dr. Dimmick: What spurred your realization that hearing difficulties were affecting your life? In other words, what was your motivation to improve your hearing? Gary: Communication was poor with my wife, friends, acquaintances, patients, and staff. I found myself repeating what was just said; I’d miss hearing specific important things; and I would say yes to and agree with things that I would not have otherwise. I was missing what was being said, and I was missing out on life. My wife was very tired of loud volume on the TV and radio. When we watched movies, she was missing things because of having to tell me what I had missed. There was a lot of “Huh?” Dr. Dimmick: If you could start the hearing aid process over, what would you do differently? Gary: In hindsight, I would have taken steps much sooner than I did. I would not try to save money on less expensive technology, and I would not compromise care with concerns of vanity as I did. Dr. Dimmick: What do you feel made your experience with hearing care positive? Gary: I was able to hear things I had not heard in many years! The kind, concerned way I was greeted and treated made a big difference too. Service matters. Hearing care involves having an ongoing relationship with your hearing care provider – it is not just a transaction. Dr. Dimmick: What encouraging advice would you give to individuals who haven’t yet taken steps to help with their hearing loss? Gary: Have your hearing checked early! Hearing aids come in many colors, and aesthetics are much better now. I recommend that folks discover and treat their hearing concerns early, because it is easier for the brain to adapt early on. Ears and hearing aids are a lot like eyes and glasses. The stigma of wearing hearing aids is changing, especially with baby boomers and the younger population.
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If you are still apprehensive about having your hearing evaluated, consider taking a step in the right direction by starting with an evaluation. A no-cost, extensive evaluation of your hearing will answer your specific concerns. The hearing
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loss is not going away, but your participation in life might. Don’t limit yourself by doubt. Set up a meeting with your audiologist and hearing provider to start a conversation about how to improve your life through better hearing! ISI
Uncover The Root Cause Of Your Depression By Suzy Cohen Dear Pharmacist: I was saddened by the suicide of Robin Williams last year. I have dealt with depression on and off for most of my life, and I was wondering if you have any natural suggestions for me to ask my doctor about? – L.C., Gainesville, Florida Answer: When I hear a person say they have battled depression “on and off” for a long period, I ask the question: Why it is on and off? Something you are eating, doing, or taking is influencing you enough that your mood is affected. Hormone imbalances are frequently the problem, especially estrogen and testosterone. Thyroid hormone is my specialty, and if it drops too low, you get depressed. When it moves into a healthy range, you feel happy and content. When I say “normal range,” I don’t mean the normal reference range indicated on your lab test. My opinion is that the so-called normal range is based upon a sick and hypothyroid population. This may explain why you feel terrible but your levels are “normal.” I do not go by labs, I go by clinical presentation. I adored Robin Williams; he was brilliant, and behind his smiling eyes and hysterical jokes, he battled depression for years. You may feel the same way as you read this today, and I am glad you are still holding on. Depression is one of those conditions that people judge. Here are some reasons for depression that you might explore with the help of your physician: • Hypothyroidism and hypoadrenia. I have mentioned this one already; however, I want you to get a copy of my Thyroid Healthy book so you learn how to test properly. Testing and treatment is the key to your happiness. Also, do not take thyroid medicine until your adrenal glands are strong and healthy. You may need to be supported by adaptogenic herbs, a healthy diet, relaxation, and other stress reducers. • The Pill. Synthetic hormones for birth control or menopause can reduce your body’s levels of
B vitamins and minerals to the point where you cannot manufacture happy brain chemicals. A reduction in key neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin causes depression. It could be on and off as you describe. • Statins and binders. We know these drugs reduce CoQ10, but do you realize they crash your ability to activate vitamin D? Ever heard of seasonal affective disorder or SAD? That is often related to low D levels so you might need vitamin D if you take cholesterol reducers. • Medications. Drugs mug life-sustaining nutrients. Ibuprofen steals folic acid, and diabetic drugs steal B12. Read my Drug Muggers book for more drug-induced nutrient depletions. If you take medications periodically, then you cannot make neurotransmitters. • Infections. Last on my list, but huge news, is that certain infections in our body can affect the brain. You can be bipolar, have depression, insomnia and/or anxiety because of Bartonella, Lyme, syphilis, HIV, fungal infections (and their mycotoxins), herpes, and many others. Clearing the infection improves mood better than any prescribed antidepressant. ISI
Fat Soluble Vitamins vs. Water Soluble Vitamins By Susan Frances Bonner, RN, BSN Vitamins are a vital component of human existence, but what are they? Further, what are the different types and why do we need them? A vitamin is an organic compound and a vital nutrient that an organism requires in limited amounts. An organic chemical compound is called a vitamin when the organism cannot synthesize the compound in sufficient quantities, and thus must be obtained through the diet. Thirteen vitamins are universally recognized. They are classified by their biological and chemical activity, not their structure. Thus, each “vitamin” refers to a number of vitamer compounds that show the biological activity associated with a particular vitamin. For example, vitamin A includes the compounds retinal, retinol, and four known carotenoids. Vitamers by definition are convertible to the active form of the vitamin in the body, and are sometimes inter-convertible to one another, as well. The research to discover these vital nutrients took years of work by different scientists in different countries. So many in fact, that the Noble Prize committee selected thirteen individuals within four different categories. One fact has been established – there are two types of vitamins – fat-soluble and water-soluble. The differences are well documented and important to the homeostasis of all living things. Fat-Soluble Vitamins. Vitamins that are classified as fat-soluble are A, D, E, and K. These vitamins are important if you have a healthy digestive system, because they are stored in our bodies once they are ingested. The fat-soluble vitamins are soluble in fats. These vitamins are usually absorbed in fat globules that travel through the lymphatic system of the small intestines and into the general blood circulation within the body. Fat-
The ability to quote is a serviceable substitute for wit. - W. Somerset Maugham
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soluble vitamins, especially vitamins A and E, are then stored in body tissues. It is important to note that a low fat diet, as well as some medications, may hamper the absorption of these vitamins, which means that intake of foods that contain these vitamins might have to be increased or a supplement might have to be added. But always check with your health care professional, first. Vitamin A helps your eyes adjust to light changes, and plays an important role in bone development, tooth development, cell division, gene expression, and reproduction. Vitamin D is required for your body’s use of calcium and phosphorous. Vitamin D helps to form and maintain your teeth and bones, and increases the amount of calcium that your small intestine absorbs. Vitamin E, which is an antioxidant, protects vitamin C, vitamin A, red blood cells, and essential fatty acids from being destroyed. Vitamin K is produced by your body naturally and plays an important role for blood clotting. Vitamin K also contributes to healthy bones and teeth. Most people take these vitamins in supplement form, but there are foods that contain these vitamins as well. Fish and liver are sources of vitamin A, which can also be converted from beta carotene found in most fruits and vegetables, including dark green
vegetables, pumpkins, carrots, and apricots. You can add vitamin D into your diet with milk and other vitamin D-fortified dairy products, as well as cod liver oil, fish oil, and oily fish including herring, salmon, and sardines. Sources of vitamin E include vegetables, fruits, vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and fortified cereals. Good sources of vitamin K include broccoli, spinach, cabbage, cauliflower, olive oil, soybean oil, and canola oil.” Vitamins D & K are the two vitamins that our bodies can produce on their own. Water Soluble Vitamins. They are not stored in our bodies. These vitamins dissolve in water when they are ingested and then go into the blood stream. The body keeps what it needs at that time, and excess amounts are excreted in the urine. Since they can’t be stored, everybody needs a continuous supply of them in order to stay healthy. The discovery of water-soluble vitamins was as complicated as it was with fat-soluble vitamins. Their discovery arose from researchers’ and scientists’ trying to cure beriberi, rickets, and scurvy. Eight B vitamins play an important role in assisting enzymes in carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism and in the making of DNA and new cells. They also are needed for healthy skin, good vision, a healthy nervous system, and the formation of red blood cells. The B-complex vitamins include thiamin (vitamin B1), riboflavin (vitamin B2), vitamin B6, vitamin B12, folate, biotin, niacin, and pantothenic acid. The last vitamin to discuss here is watersoluble vitamin C. Vitamin C is needed for the
growth and repair of tissues in all parts of your body. It forms an important protein used to make skin, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels, to heal wounds and form scar tissue, and to repair and maintain cartilage, bones, and teeth. Vitamin C is one of many antioxidants. Antioxidants are nutrients that block some of the damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are made when your body breaks down food or when you are exposed to tobacco smoke or radiation. The buildup of free radicals over time is largely responsible for the aging process. Free radicals may play a role in cancer, heart disease, and conditions like arthritis. Sources of the B-complex vitamins include pork and ham as well as yeast, liver, whole grains, nuts, sunflower seeds, peas, watermelon, oysters, oatmeal, and wheat germ. Dairy sources include milk and milk products such as cheese. Then there are green leafy vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, and spinach. Meat, poultry, and fish are also good sources, as are enriched breads and cereals. Other sources are potatoes and purple fruit. Vitamin B12 is almost exclusively found in animal flesh and animal products. Food sources that are found rich in Vitamin C include citrus fruits, broccoli, greens, cabbage, cantaloupe, and strawberries. There you have it. Both fat-soluble and watersoluble vitamins are vital substances for life. Whether you are a meat eater or a vegetarian, vitamins are essential to your survival. ISI
Why I Disagree With Angelina Jolie’s Mastectomy Decision By Suzy Cohen When I heard about Angelina Jolie’s double mastectomy, my heart sank for her because I am sure she was paralyzed by fear. After all, nobody wants to hear the “C” word leave her doctor’s lips. Although her decision was based on the doctors she trusts, I disagree with it. She is supposedly removing her ovaries next. Should we tell her the BRCA1 gene increases risk of pancreatic cancer? She will yank it. In men, the BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene increases risk of testicular and prostate cancer. Poor Brad, do you think he will humor his wife? These surgeons are going to dissect her while
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she is still alive and thriving. Good grief! She will not be thriving very long if they take out her ovaries and begin drug therapy to replace progesterone and estrogen. Certain hormone replacement medications increase risk of breast cancer (a tragic irony) as well as depression, gallstones, blood clots, uterine cancer, heart attack, and stroke. And she pays her doctors to keep her healthy. Preventative breast removal is a disturbingly popular trend that is being hailed as a reasonable, if not celebrated choice. Saline or silicone implants make it harder to detect breast cancer and according to the British Medical Journal, increase a woman’s risk of dying should she happen to develop breast cancer. Angelina’s story makes me admire Suzanne Somers even more. I know her from medical conferences and book signings because we share the same circle as authors of health books. I love her, everybody loves her! She was diagnosed with breast cancer years ago, and forced to make a life or death decision. She chose well. The Bombshell author still thrives today and is just as vivacious as Chrissy from Three’s Company. Angelina could have peed in a cup and learned more about her breast cancer risk than taking a genetic test that cost her several thousand dollars! I am talking about a 24-hour urine collection test that provides metabolite levels of your hormones, kind of like glimpsing inside your cells. For example, a naturally occurring estrogen metabolite,
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2-methoxyestradiol, protects you from breast cancer. If you are low, you can increase levels with natural supplements such as DIM, B vitamins, magnesium, and others. Detoxifying poisons is critical. I have more information about this in my e-book Breast Cancer Protection sold at my website. Since when is conventional medicine genuinely interested in preventing disease? Mastectomies and breast implantation generate billions of dollars for surgeons, hospitals, pharmacies, and drug companies. Lifestyle factors, diet, persistent organic pollutants (POPS), vitamin or mineral deficiencies, and your body’s innate ability to detoxify poisons all play a role in developing cancer. Common sense will tell you that if you remove your breasts, or ovaries, or whatever... you are still a delicious host to cancer in your lungs, uterus, pancreas, wherever. It is a dangerous trend. Do not remove body parts to prevent cancer, make your body an inhospitable host! ISI
Follow Individualized Cholesterol-Targeted Therapy By David Stauth, Oregon State University A recent guideline for using statins to reduce atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease has wavered too far from the simple cholesterol goals that have saved thousands of lives in the past decade, and doesn’t adequately treat patients as individuals, experts said today in a national report. An expert panel coordinated by the National Lipid Association has created its own outline for how best to treat people at risk for cardiovascular disease – reducing cholesterol to an appropriate level, and puts less emphasis on whether or not a patient fits into a certain type of group. “We continue to believe in cholesterol targets that are easy for patients to understand and work toward, first using changes in lifestyle and then medication if necessary,” said Matt Ito, one of two lead authors on the report, an expert in cardiovascular drug treatments and a professor in the Oregon State University/Oregon Health & Science University College of Pharmacy. “We’re also concerned about treating people just because they fall into a group that’s supposedly at risk,” Ito said. “There are ways more accurately to treat patients as individuals and understand their complete health profile.” A report issued last year by the American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association identified four general groups that would primarily benefit from statins and dramatically increase the number using these drugs. By contrast, the new report from the National Lipid Association has outlined what their experts believe to be a more individualized set of recommendations that practitioners could use to treat people at risk of cardiovascular disease; more information is available online at www.lipid.org/recommendations. They are intended to complement the guidelines issued by the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association, Ito said. Among the conclusions in the report: • A root cause of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease is cholesterolcontaining particles attaching to the walls of arteries. • A healthy lifestyle that incorporates diet, weight management, and exercise should be the first approach to lowering high cholesterol levels. • Control and reduction of LDL, or “bad” cholesterol is important, but an even better overall marker of risk is “non-HDL cholesterol,” which is total cholesterol minus its HDL component. • Patients at very high risk, such as those who have already had a cardiac event, should try to achieve non-HDL cholesterol levels below 100, while those at lower risk levels should try to achieve levels below 130. • Drug therapies specifically aimed at lowering triglyceride levels may not be necessary unless they are very high, over 500. • Use of more potent statin drugs, at moderate to high doses if necessary, should be the first approach to reach cholesterol goals if lifestyle changes have not been adequate. • Use of other medications or therapies, such as fibrates, cholesterol absorption inhibitors, and niacin or omega-3 fatty acids can be considered if cholesterol and triglyceride goals are not reached with statins alone. “Cholesterol is still a primary factor in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease,” Ito said. “If it’s too high, the levels should be brought down by changes in lifestyle and medication if necessary. And in general, the lower the cholesterol, the better.” Statins have proven themselves as one of the most effective way to reduce cholesterol, Ito said, and are now comparatively inexpensive with limited side effects. Proper medication management and reducing the potential for drug interactions can address some types of side effects, and any problems should be weighed against the risk of heart attack or stroke, he said. Factors known to raise the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease include age, family history, smoking, high blood pressure, overweight, diabetes, and high cholesterol levels, especially those caused by genetics. ISI
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The Leather Man by Mel Reisner; Archway Publishing; Bloomington, IN, 2014 Reviewed by Connie Daugherty “The thing that could unite everyone was football.” And Mel Reisner’s novel, The Leather Man is all about uniting. Set in the 1960s in Canyon City, a small college town in southern Idaho, this exquisitely written novel is a delight to read and packed with history, geology, politics, and detailed descriptions of football. The 1960s decade was a time of change – the Vietnam War, the growing civil rights movement, bra burning and Steinem feminism – and marijuana and sexual experimentation were the rule of the day even in small town Idaho. Reisner captures an authentic feel of small college football, campus life, and politics as though he’s lived it. The pages of The Leather Man are peppered with biblical quotes, as well as Irish, Norse, and Greek mythology references, many down-home similes and colloquiums, and even the occasional Latin phrase. You can’t help but smile as you read. As clever and unexpected as the writing is, Reisner’s strong cast of characters brings the story to life and allows the reader to see inside football, small town life, race, and relationships from different perspectives. “Edison Green hadn’t accumulated many things in his nineteen years… packing for college he felt as if he could put his whole life into two duffel bags, his guitar case… picture of Jackie Robinson… news articles about Martin Luther King.” His grandmother was nervous about his going to a small town in Idaho, ever anxious about his being black in a white world. The first thing people noticed about Ben Steinbrecher was his size. “The coach became known as ‘the leather man’… his current position as defen-
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sive coordinator at Canyon State” further defined him in most people’s minds, but there was much more to this gentle giant than anyone suspected. “Quintus LeClaire had seen precious few beautiful things during more than a year of combat in Vietnam.” After a bad dream on a cross-country bus ride, the Latin-speaking Louisiana football all-star found himself stuck in Canyon City and probably headed for jail time. That is until Sam Moody came to interrogate him. “Sam Moody… a lifelong Mormon… was also the new police chief of Canyon City.” And he was Ben Steinbrecher’s friend, as well as faithful fan of the Canyon City College football team even though they lost most games they played. He recognized something in the young Marine veteran sitting in his jail and suggested a different way to serve his time. “The combat veteran… felt something akin to gratitude to be back in familiar surroundings.” Canyon City College had no aspirations to fame. The football team reflected that attitude; they knew they were mediocre frogs competing in a small pond. Still, they did their best because they were natural competitors who loved to win. Even in the fraternity of coaches, Buck McKinnon was a size extra-large. But large didn’t always translate into success and the previous season left him concerned. “He knew winning was the way to keep his first head-coaching job.” He dreamed of recruiting exceptional players, of developing a winning team. He had nightmares about the losses his team had suffered the previous year. Then, “McKinnon arose convinced that the players were extensions of his will, meaning the team’s mistakes were his mistakes.” He knew something had to change. Maybe it was the leadership. Maybe it was the morale. Davey Talty, an outside linebacker is small as far as football players go. “He was just five-eleven, but, he always gave a hundred percent.” Taking a cue from the uncle who raised him, Davey instinctively understood the need for camaraderie on the team. Part of that hundred percent seemed to be acting as a peacemaker among his teammates. Even though they could operate as a cohesive unit
on the field, there was often a lot of division within the team off the field. “Banning had never envisioned playing football in snow and he was perpetually incensed that no major college had offered him a ride.” Brock Banning, a transfer from a small California college, wore his ego and his attitude like armor. He reluctantly tolerated his team members and was determined to challenge any authority, especially coach Steinbrecher. He was tolerated because he was a good player. Danny Malaheawa, a Hawaiian and new recruit who plays one of the linebacker positions, Preston “Taters” Jones, a fullback from Soda Springs, and Froggy Lund, also from Idaho make up the rest of the team’s starting line-up. Only football could bring this motley mix of youth and testosterone together. “It was time for football, a few months when life was good and a team known as the Wranglers could be as popular as rodeos and fishing – a time to harvest not only crops, but memories to store, against the day when abscission layers formed.” Football season means a life immersed in the game – breathing, eating, and sleeping football. It means practicing until you drop. It means games on the weekends and studying to maintain grades the rest of the week. It means physical and emotional commitment and stress. Football takes coaches away from their families and players away from just about everything else while at the same time bringing a community together. And amidst it all, life goes on and that life cannot be ignored. Using football as a metaphor and a vehicle, Reisner’s The Leather Man explores all aspects of life in a small Idaho town in the 1960s. If you remember anything at all about the 1960s, this novel will touch you in a profound way. The Leather Man is definitely a book for your must-read list. Mel Reisner worked for three newspapers and five Associated Press bureaus during his career. He won writing awards in New York and Washington State and was an adjunct professor of sports writing. Reisner and his wife live in Idaho where he planted an International Peace Forest mixing Serbian spruces with Bosnian pines. ISI
Today’s world is certainly instant communication and information provided by the 24-hour news cycle, the Internet, smartphones, cable TV, satellite radio, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Google, and who knows what will be next. But, none of these things feels like a printed newspaper that you can hold in your hand, read in-depth articles, learn the local news, linger with over your morning coffee, etc., and then wash the ink off your hands. Imagine the wonder of a child at the operation of a newspaper office with typesetters, a printing press, paper, ink, and green visors. Imagine too, the opportunity for well intentioned, but mischievous behavior in such an environment. This issue’s winning Remember When selection is by Corinne Moyers of Nampa whose Growing Up In The Newspaper Business captures smells, sounds, and energy of a small-town newspaper from a child’s perspective. Thank you, Corinne for
sharing your story. Remember When contains our readers’ personal reflections, contributions describing fictional or non-fictional accounts from the “Good ol’ Days” or reflections on life in general. Contributions may be stories, letters, artwork, poetry, etc. Photos may be included. Each issue of the Idaho Senior Independent features the contribution deemed best by our staff. The contributor of the winning entry will receive a $25 cash prize. We look forward to receiving your contributions for our June/July 2015 issue. Mail your correspondence to Idaho Senior Independent, P.O. Box 3341, Great Falls, MT 59403; email to idahoseniorind@bresnan.net; or call 1-866-3605683 or 208-318-0310. Visit us online at idahoseniorindependent.com.
Growing Up In The Newspaper Business By Corinne Moyers, Nampa Melvin A. McClure was the owner and editor of the Twin Falls Citizen Record from 1930-1933. Our family arrived in Filer Halloween night. The previous week the local bank had been raided and the robbers escaped in a stolen car. The following week’s issue read, “To date the miscreants who perpetrated this dastardly deed have not yet been apprehended.” Later the stolen car was found
abandoned near Ogden, Utah. The newspaper was an interesting place to be. Just inside the front door was a long bench against the wall, across from a high counter. A big roll top desk was on the other side of the counter. Grandfather and other old timers sat on the bench telling stories and I stayed behind the counter to listen where I couldn’t be seen. (I wish I had written down the stories.)
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The most fun was to “help!” The paper came out on Thursdays, so it was “put to bed” on Wednesdays. That is, all the typed material was in place to be printed. One Wednesday night we were left in Dad’s care while Mother went to PTA. My sister and I thought it would be fun to play tick-tack-toe with a galley of type. We took turns taking a line of type from one place and putting it in another place, getting the galley pretty well “pi’d” before Dad caught up with us. (The dictionary says, “pied” – but that didn’t explain what we did to the type.) It took hours to get it straightened out. He didn’t say anything to us about it – just told Mother to get us home. The paper generated so much static when the big press was running we would get shocked if we touched it. It made the papers fly out all over, so we took a stick and knocked them flat as they came through. (I think this was just a ruse to keep us out of mischief.) The big wheel on the press had been welded together so many times; it was more brass than it was black metal. Watching the linotype machine was fascinating. It had a keyboard with two sets of keys, one capitals, and one lower case. As each key was struck a matrix key slipped down into the chase. When the line on the chase was full of matrix keys, an amount of lead was poured into the chase, creating a molten line of type. The line of type moved out of the way, a long arm reached down, picked up the matrix keys, took them up to a bar at the top of the machine, and attached them to the bar. The bar revolved, moving the matrix keys across the bar and when a key reached the slot it came out of, it dropped down with a clatter to be used again. We would watch the lead pigs melt in the linotype ore pot, pick up the odd-shaped splinters of metal on the floor around the machine and put them back into the ore pot, or stack the ore pigs into piles. When the folder broke down, I sat on the counter folding papers. (This probably kept me out of mischief too.) Another job was to count reams of paper into 25s and 50s. The last of the ream sometimes came out a little long or a little short because the reams were packed by weight, not by count. We could get 3/5 multicolored tablets for a penny. If circulars had been printed, there were strips of colored paper in the wastebasket, near the paper cutter, to weave into baskets and place mats. The paper ran a serial story every week. The pages came in cardboard mats where melted lead was poured and the resultant lead plates put into the paper set up. Apparently, I got them missstacked because when the paper came out one week it had skipped a chapter, and the skipped chapter was printed the following week. We could watch the small press make calling cards, for the current graduating class, in a slow, one-at-a-time process. As a few of the cards came off the press, the wet ink was dusted with a bronze
powder and the ink blended to give an embossed effect. One day Dad staggered in with a big package of newsprint, which he usually could carry quite easily. He said he thought he must have been getting old, until he checked the weight and this package was heaver than the ones he had been getting. His newsprint didn’t come in a roll like the bigger newspapers since his press only took one sheet at time to print. “One thing about being a small town reporter,” Dad said, “is if I put something in the paper that didn’t appeal to the local citizenry, and that person came in, tore the place apart, and blacked my eye, I’d have something to write about the next time the paper came out. “Once,” he said, “I used the method of remembering someone’s name by associating something about the man with his name. It didn’t work the time I associated someone’s big nose with his name.” And of course, small-town papers covered everything important to someone – the largest pumpkin, the largest squash, the biggest bunch of grapes, and once a California citrus were brought in to be displayed in the window and mentioned in the paper. The paper didn’t have an editorial page – the editorials appeared on the front page. One October the editorial had to do with “Dough Knots.” Somebody had put forward the suggestion that October of each year should be celebrated as a national doughnut month, and so Dad replied. “We say ‘amen’ to that, but we would broaden the proposal a bit by adding November, December, January, February, March, April, May, and June. The doughnut is good eating in all of those months. We have eaten doughnuts in July, August, and September, without any harmful effect. By all means, let us celebrate the doughnut.” In most parts of the country, the word doughnut means the toothsome delicacy that was first introduced into America by the Dutch settlers of New Amsterdam, who called them “crullers.”
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Away down east in New England the people of the older generation today still call the Dutch crullers “fried cakes” to distinguish them from the original Yankee doughnut, which is made from bread dough, only slightly sweetened. These are the doughnuts that hearty Yankee pioneers used to eat for breakfast, preferably “dunked” in coffee. But they are not the delicacies that most folks have in mind, when they think of doughnuts. The genuine cruller is basically different from the Yankee doughnut. The dough from which it is made is much shorter and sweeter, and in its perfection is of a consistency that requires careful handling if it is to be dropped into the frying kettle without losing its shape. The standard shape of the cruller is, now, a hole surrounded by a rim of dough, but the oldfashioned doughnut was composed of a long strip of dough twisted like a section of rope. Indeed, the word doughnut is merely a perversion of “dough knot.” But, whatever its shape, whatever the consistency or the quality of the ingredients, we say without hesitation that there is no such thing as a bad doughnut. The only thing that can spoil a doughnut, in our opinion, is to sprinkle it with powdered sugar. That makes it into a French frilled kind of confection, which is not only un-American, but very difficult to brush off the front of one’s vest. And so it was at the newspaper in those years – a fascinating place to spend time amidst the sounds, smells, words, and ideas. ISI
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Caregiving Today: A Snapshot By Lisa M. Petsche In approximately thirty percent of American households, unpaid care is provided on a regular basis to someone who is chronically ill, disabled, or advanced in age, and whose ability to carry out the necessary activities of daily living is compromised as a result. In most cases, family members and friends – known as informal caregivers – provide all of the help that the care receiver needs. Without their assistance, the care receiver might otherwise have to move to some type of a residential care setting. It is not necessary to live under the same roof as the person one is helping, or to provide assistance with personal or medical care, in order to be considered a caregiver. Who Are The Caregivers? The typical caregiver is an adult child providing help to a parent or, less often, a parent-in-law. But a caregiver may also be, in order from most to least likely, a friend or neighbor, grandchild, sibling or other extended family member, spouse or parent. The majority of caregivers are female. On average, they spend up to 50 percent more time on caregiving-related tasks than their male counterparts do. Caregivers most often fall into the 45 to 65 age group and the majority is married. Those at the younger end of this group are likely to have children still at home and consequently have been labeled “the sandwich generation.” A significant proportion of caregivers are older themselves – in other words, younger seniors caring for older seniors. The older they are, the more likely they are to have health issues of their own, resulting in added stress and risk. Close to two-thirds of family caregivers are employed in a full-time or part-time capacity. These people are juggling caregiving with paid work, not to mention other responsibilities such as maintaining their own household and attending to other family members. It is no surprise therefore, that self-care is usually a low priority for caregivers, if it is even on their radar at all. Who Are The Care Receivers? The typical recipient of care is female, over 70 years of age, widowed, and living alone. The older the care receiver, the more likely they are to require personal care. Half of
those over 85 fall into this category. The 85-plus age group is, of course, a rapidly growing segment of the population. The most common types of health conditions associated with care needs are age-related – for example, osteoporosis, arthritis, and vision loss. Other common medical diagnoses of care receivers are cancer, heart disease (such as stroke), neurological disease (such as Parkinson’s disease), dementia, and mental illness (such as depression). Types Of Caregiving Activities Caregiving tasks fall into two categories: basic activities of daily living (known as ADLs or BADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs). Activities of Daily Living are daily self-care tasks including feeding, toileting, dressing, grooming, bathing, and mobilizing. Less than 25 percent of caregiving situations involve helping with these needs. Instrumental Activities of Daily Living are the more complex skills involved in living independently – skills normally learned during adolescence and early adulthood. These skills include using the telephone, way finding, managing transportation (whether it is driving or using public transit), handling finances, shopping, preparing meals, managing medications, performing housework, and performing basic indoor and outdoor home maintenance. Typically, care receivers need help with IADLs before they require help with ADLs. In fact, the first indicator of cognitive impairment when someone develops dementia is difficulty managing IADLs, which demand a higher level of mental functioning than do ADLs. The most commonly provided type of caregiving help is transportation. This involves taking the person to medical appointments, social and leisure activities, and on errands such as shopping and banking. Other common types of assistance that relatives and friends provide are home and yard maintenance, house cleaning, and meal preparation. Reflection To help ensure that informal caregiving is sustainable and remains a rewarding experience over time, it is important for those providing care to make use of available help. This includes obtaining assistance from family members and friends as well as taking advantage of community services that can help maximize the care receiver’s functioning and assist the caregiver with necessary tasks. Doing so improves the quality of life of not only the caregiver but also the care receiver. Note: Statistics in this article were obtained from the National Alliance for Caregiving, the Family Caregiver Alliance, and the Caregiver Action Network. Lisa M. Petsche is a medical social worker and a freelance writer specializing in boomer and senior concerns. She has personal experience with elder care. ISI
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208•731•0545 By Bernice Karnop To get into the act means engagement, being part of things, and making a difference. May is Older American’s Month and the Administration for Community Living has chosen the inspiring motto Get into the Act for the 2015 theme. One purpose of Older American’s Month is to look back. Great progress has been made in senior programs in the more than half-century since President John F. Kennedy met with the National Council of Senior Citizens and created Older American’s Month. They faced the challenges of creating programs to focus on seniors and address their needs. Many things have changed since that day in 1963, and seniors still face challenges, but they go forward on the foundation that was laid
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one-half century ago. In addition to remembering special seniors who got into the act in the past, May is the time to celebrate ordinary Idahoans who consistently engage in their community and make a positive impact on the lives of others today. It’s time to say thanks, and a time to acknowledge that community engagement has a profound effect on one’s well-being. Some may consider increasing their community involvement for the sheer joy of it. Readers can create their own celebration of Older American’s Month by getting in the act every day. Stay engaged with friends and neighbors, with one’s own health, and with issues like elder abuse. Be part of the action every chance you get! ISI
2015 National Nursing Home Week By Bernice Karnop Bring on the Fiesta is the south of the border theme for National Nursing Home Week, May 10-16. “We hope you show how familia, vida, and amor (family, life, and love) thrive at your care center, irrespective of anyone’s age or physical or intellectual ability,” says their web site. The theme acknowledges the variety of ways that specific cultures do fiesta, whatever they may call them – joyous festivals, celebrations, or holidays. Specific music, small remembrance gifts, and favorite dishes can add to the atmosphere. Families, friends, businesses, and the public are encouraged to recognize and appreciate the million Americans who need assistance with daily living needs during National Nursing Home Week. This week is set aside to remember not only residents and rehab patients, but also their families, care providers, and staff. One special way that the Fiesta theme may be
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implemented is by letting family and guests know the importance of touch. Hugs and kisses, hand holding, shoulder rubs, and a foot massage can feel like a party to an individual in a nursing home. Bring cookies, flowers, or other tokens of appreciation during National Nursing Home Week – or any time of year. A simple visit may be just the Fiesta a resident needs. Those things that brighten the day for the resident brighten the day for caregivers as well. ISI
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International Researchers Identify Seven Dietary And Lifestyle Guidelines for Alzheimer’s Prevention Seven dietary and lifestyle guidelines to boost brain health and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s are now available as an online advance in Neurobiology of Aging. “Alzheimer’s disease isn’t a natural part of aging,” notes lead author Neal Barnard, M.D., president of the nonprofit Physicians Committee and an adjunct professor of medicine at the George Washington University School of Medicine. “By staying active and moving plant-based foods to the center of our plates, we have a fair shot at rewriting our genetic code for this heart-wrenching, and costly, disease.”
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Alzheimer’s Disease International predicts Alzheimer’s rates will triple worldwide by 2050. The Alzheimer’s Association predicts long-term care costs start at $41,000 per year. The seven guidelines to reduce risk of Alzheimer’s disease are: 1. Minimize your intake of saturated fats and trans fats. Saturated fat is found primarily in dairy products, meats, and certain oils (coconut and palm oils). Trans fats are found in many snack pastries and fried foods and are listed on labels as “partially hydrogenated oils.” 2. Eat plant-based foods. Vegetables, legumes (beans, peas, and lentils), fruits, and whole grains should replace meats and dairy products as primary staples of the diet. 3. Consume 15 micrograms of vitamin E, from foods, each day. Vitamin E should come from foods, rather than supplements. Healthful food sources of vitamin E include seeds, nuts, green leafy vegetables, and whole grains. Note: The RDA for vitamin E is 15 milligrams per day. 4. Take a B12 supplement. A reliable source of B12, such as fortified foods or a supplement providing at least the recommended daily allowance (2.4 micrograms per day for adults), should be part of your daily diet. Note: Have your blood levels of vitamin B12 checked regularly as many
factors, including age, impair absorption. 5. Choose vitamins without iron or copper, and consume iron supplements only when directed by your physician. 6. Choose aluminum-free products. While aluminum’s role in Alzheimer’s disease remains a matter of investigation, those who desire to minimize their exposure can avoid the use of cookware, antacids, baking powder, or other products that contain aluminum. 7. Exercise for 120 minutes each week. Include aerobic exercise in your routine, equivalent to 40 minutes of brisk walking, three times per week. Other preventive measures, such as getting a minimum of seven hours of sleep each night and participating in 30 to 40 minutes of mental activity most days of the week, such as completing crossword puzzles, reading the newspaper, or learning a new language, can only help boost brain health. “We spend trillions of dollars each year on failed drug trials,” notes study author Susan Levin, M.S., R.D., C.S.S.D., Physicians Committee director of nutrition education. “Let’s take a portion of these funds and invest in educational programs to help people learn about foods that are now clinically proven to be more effective in fighting this global epidemic.” ISI
Sex and Dementia Expert Provides the Answers To Your Questions The desire for sex and intimacy is a concept we prefer not to associate with our elders but the need for human contact and romantic relationships does not disappear with old age. In Sexuality and Dementia: Compassionate & Practical Strategies for Dealing with Unexpected or Inappropriate Behaviors, Dr. Douglas Wornell offers advice and support for both family members and professional caretakers who are confronted by the troubling, heartbreaking, and often isolating ways dementia affects personality, romantic relationships, sexuality, and intimacy, including the exhibition of inappropriate and uncharacteristic sexual behavior, promiscuity, verbal abuse, aggression, grabbing, exhibitionism, and jealous paranoia. In Sexuality and Dementia, no situation is too embarrassing or shameful to discuss, including the true stories of: • Howard, a successful 61 year-old attorney whose hypersexual behavior prevented him from being admitted to a rehabilitation facility after stroke. • Joan, whose dementia tipped her flirtatious personality over
the edge, leaving her husband to buffer her predatory sexual advances. • Lucy, a dementia patient whose family was outraged to discover she had been allowed to have sex with a fellow dementia patient. • Ken, devastated by the fading of a 20 year romance with his partner, Kyle, who became emotionally absent after being diagnosed with HIV dementia. • Wanda, an eldercare nurse, learned to navigate around the sexual advances of her dementia patients to avoid uncomfortable encounters. • Tim, who began dating another woman while still married to his wife of 30 years who had been diagnosed with dementia. These and other stories of the ravages of dementia and the coping techniques discussed make this a valuable resource for families struggling with the emotional toll of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Douglas Wornell, MD, is a geriatric neuropsychiatrist with a large practice in the Seattle-Tacoma area, and he has participated in the treatment of over 20,000 dementia patients in the past 10 years and has given over 200 presentations on geriatric psychiatry. He is the medical director of the Behavioral Wellness Center at Auburn Regional Medical Center and the director of Wornell Psychiatry and Associates, a geriatric and neuropsychiatric consultative service through which he provides advice to 23 long-term care facilities. DougWornell.com. ISI
Fear Of Aging Perhaps it is a fear of growing old that induces some younger people to have a negative perception of the elderly around them, says the Association of Mature American Citizens. Anne Karpf, who wrote the book, How to Age, said in a recent New York Times opinion article, “Ageism has been described as prejudice against one’s future self. It tells us that age is our defining characteristic and that, as midnight strikes on a milestone birthday, we will become nothing but old – emptied of our passions, abilities, and experience, infused instead with frailty and decline.” Be that as it may, a number of recent studies have shown that the older folks among us are happier and more content than those youthful offenders, says AMAC. As Karpf, who is 64, says, “Old people simply care less about what others think, but also, I think, that our sense of what’s important grows with age. We experience life more intensely than before, whatever our physical limitations, because we know it won’t last forever.” ISI
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Yes! You Can Use Your Life Insurance Policy Before You Die By Danielle Jennings Treasure Valley Life Insurance Settlements Life insurance is everywhere! More than 270 million individual and group life insurance policies with a total face value of nearly $20 trillion exist in the United States today. But over 90 percent of life insurance policies are never claimed, mostly due to unaffordable escalating premiums. Were you aware that most people believe the only options they have are to let their policies lapse or to take the tiny cash value associated with their policy? Perhaps your life insurance has outlived its original purpose or the premiums are burdensome and you are considering surrendering it for its cash value. If so wait! There is an important option with clear financial benefits for people in this situation and it’s called a life settlement. A life settlement allows qualified life insurance policyholders to convert life insurance coverage into cash by selling it to a licensed financial institution. Similar to the sale of a home or car, all rights, title, and future interest in the policy are legally transferred from the seller to the buyer who is then responsible for subsequent premium payments and owns the rights to the policy’s death benefit.
Essential Legal Documents By Jim Miller Every adult should have at least four essential legal documents to protect them and their family. These documents will make sure your wishes regarding your estate are legal and clear, and will help minimize any conflicts and confusion with your family and your health care providers if you become seriously ill or when you die. Here are the key documents you need, along with some tips to help you create them. A Will: This document lets you spell out how you’d like your property and assets distributed after you die, whether it’s to family, friends, or a charity. It also allows you to designate an executor to ensure your wishes are carried out, and allows you to name guardians if you have minor or dependent children. In addition to a will, if you own real estate or have considerable assets, another option you may want to consider is a “revocable living trust.” This functions like a will but allows your estate to avoid the time and expense of probate (the public legal process that examines your estate after you die) and helps ensure your estate’s privacy. Durable Power of Attorney: This allows you to designate someone you trust to make financial, tax and legal decisions on your behalf if you lose your decision-making capacity. Advanced Health Care Directive: This includes two documents that spell out your wishes regarding your end-of-life medical treatment. The two documents are a “living will” which tells your doctor what kinds of care you want to receive if you become incapacitated, and a “health care power of attorney” which names a person you authorize to make medical decisions on your behalf if you become unable. Do-It-Yourself. If you have a simple estate and an uncomplicated family situation, several good do-it-yourself guides can help you create all these documents for very little money. For creating a will, a top resource is the Quicken WillMaker Plus 2015 software (available at nolo.com) that costs $50, works with Windows personal computers, and is valid in every state except Louisiana. If you use a Mac, nolo.com offers an online will maker for $35.
Life settlement buyers are part of a secondary market for life insurance policies that arose due to the lack of options offered by life insurance companies for consumers who had life circumstances that changed or who could no longer afford their premiums. Life settlements give consumers a choice, where only limited options dictated by life insurance companies existed previously. Now, policyholders can sell their asset for a fair market value, instead of allowing a policy to lapse with no value received or surrendering it for an amount below fair market value. The life settlement option allows the seller of the policy to use the proceeds to pay for medical expenses, replace expensive coverage with a more cost effective alternative, or purchase long-term health insurance. It provides cash for whatever you want or need to assist your family. Life settlements offer policy owners an immediate and significant lump sum payment and relieve them from the burden of paying future premiums. If you qualify, you may be able to turn that old policy into cash – far more cash than the surrender value of the policy. General qualifications for life settlement include insureds being over the age of 65 with health problems, or those younger with severe or
end stage health issues. Many types of policies can qualify such as universal life, variable life, whole life, convertible term life, or even group life. The policy owner can be the insured, his/her family, a trust, a corporation, or any other entity that might hold the rights to the policy. Some of the common reasons you might consider selling your life insurance policy include: • The policy premiums have become a financial burden; • The original need for the policy no longer exists, i.e. children are no longer dependents, so lapsing or surrendering the policy is under consideration; • The beneficiary of the policy has died, so the life settlement proceeds would improve the policyholder’s financial situation; • The policyholder requires income for longterm care expenses; • The policyholder is considering a cash donation to a charity; • The insured is required to assign the policy to the state in order to obtain Medicaid coverage. If you believe you or a family member could benefit from a life settlement and would like to learn more about the process, feel free to contact us without obligation at 541-889-0655 or visit tvlifesettlements.com. ISI
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Or, if you only need to create an advance directive you can do it free at caringinfo.org (or call 800-658-8898), where you can get state-specific forms with instructions. Or for only $5, an even better tool is the Five Wishes document (agingwithdignity.org, 888-594-7437), which is valid in 42 states and will help you create a customized advance directive. Get Help. If however, you want or need assistance or if you have a complicated financial situation, blended family or have considerable assets, you should hire an attorney. An experi-
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enced lawyer can make sure you cover all your bases – especially when writing a will or living trust – which can help avoid family confusion and squabbles after you’re gone. Costs will vary depending on where you reside, but you can expect to pay somewhere between $200 and $1,000 for a will, or $1,200 to $5,000 for a living trust. The American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (actec.org) and the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (naela.org) websites are
good resources that have directories to help you find someone in your area. If money is tight, check with your state’s bar association (see findlegalhelp.org) to find lowcost legal help in your area. Or call the Eldercare Locater at 800-677-1116 for a referral. Send your senior questions to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of The Savvy Senior book. ISI
Gifts that Keep on Giving – College Savings Plans Can Leave a Lasting Legacy
Provided by AARP Q: This summer, my daughter’s husband died unexpectedly at age 48. My daughter has an eight-year-old and a ten-year-old. Instead of giving gifts to the kids, we would like to start a college savings plan to which all family members can contribute. Do you have information on 529 college plans? A: We’re so sorry for your family’s loss. Starting a 529 college savings plan for your grandchildren is a great way to help your daughter pay for their college. Your idea to make it a “family affair” is a good one. Anyone can contribute to these plans – aunts, uncles, grandparents, and friends – so go ahead and convert those holiday, birthday, confirmation, and other gifts into college savings. A 529-college savings plan (named for the section of the tax code) works similarly to an IRA in that it provides tax benefits to account holders. Only, instead of saving for retirement, you’re saving for college education expenses. “IDeal” is an Idaho state sponsored, tax advantage savings plan that helps families pay for the cost of college. With the rising costs of college, developing a savings plan is the first and most important step in helping families finance a college education. Idaho taxpayers who open an account before December 31st may qualify for a state tax deduction of up to $4,000 per single tax payer, and up to $8,000 for married tax payers filing jointly on their annual tax returns. Visit sto.idaho. gov/Programs/IDeal.aspx for additional information. The North American Securities Administrators Association offers a plan checklist along with tips and advice at nasaa.org/2518/understanding-collegesavings-plans/. What to Look For When choosing a 529 plan, you can compare several features using the savingforcollege.com website. Here are some examples: • Tax treatment: Since your state gives you a deduction on 529 contributions, then it may make sense to choose a plan your state runs. Otherwise, look at other features to compare plans. • Cost: All investments come with fees. With 529 plans, you may pay
an annual maintenance fee ($15, for example) and an investment fee. The investment fee is a percentage of the assets in your account. You can compare investment fees at savingforcollege.com. • Investment choices: Most 529 plans offer several investment options. If you’re uncomfortable selecting investments on your own, each plan offers aged-based plans. These funds invest based on how long before the child starts school. The investments grow more conservative the closer the child gets to starting college. Other Things to Consider Some people worry that the savings in a 529 plan will interfere with financial aid. In reality, just 5.64% of the account balance is counted if a parent owns the plan. None of it counts if a grandparent owns the plan. If the child you opened the plan for ends up not going to college, you can change the beneficiary. You can even name yourself and take some post-secondary classes. If you take money out of the plan and don’t use it for college, you’ll pay a 10% penalty on any gains plus regular income taxes. Also, if you aren’t happy with the performance of the plan you choose, you are able to change plans once a year. Another type of college savings plan is a state 529 pre-paid tuition plan. Generally, you save and invest for a specific in-state college with these plans. To learn more about them, check out a comparison of the plans on savingforcollege.com. ISI
A Way You And Your Favorite Charity Can Benefit The charitable gift annuity is a perfect example of how donors can take full advantage of tax incentives that encourage charitable planning. In simple terms, a gift annuity is a contract between a qualified charity and an individual or couple. The contract provides fixed lifetime payments to the donor, as well as an ultimate gift to the charity after the donor’s death. Rates on one-life gift annuities range as high as 9 percent and are based on the age of the donor. For example, a 76-year-old is guaranteed 6 percent annual gift annuity payments. The benefits do not end with the attractive annuity rate. Since the gift annuity contract eventually becomes a gift to a charity, a number of charitable tax benefits also accrue. A formula is used to calculate the ultimate value of the gift, and it provides an immediate charitable income-tax deduction for the donor. In cases where the gift annuity is funded with an appreciated asset, a portion of each annuity payment is tax free, further reducing the donor’s tax liability. To learn more about charitable gift annuities, consult your financial adviser. For more information about the Good Samaritan Society’s charitable gift annuity plan, call us toll-free at 1-877-774-2746. ISI
The Fence
Author Unknown – Submitted by Julie Brantley There once was a little boy who had a bad temper. His father gave him a bag of nails and told him that every time he lost his temper he must hammer a nail into the fence. The first day the boy had driven 37 nails into the fence. Over the next few weeks as he learned to control his anger, the number of nails hammered daily gradually dwindled down. He discovered it was easier to hold his temper than to drive those nails into the fence. Finally, the day came when the boy didn’t lose his temper at all. He told his father about it and the father suggested that the boy now pull out one nail for each day that he was able to hold his temper. The days passed and the young boy was finally able to tell his father that all the nails were gone. The father took his son by the hand and led him to the fence. He said, “You have done well, my son, but look at the holes in the fence. The fence will never be the same. When you say things in anger, they leave a scar just like this one.” You can put a knife in a man and draw it out. It won’t matter how many times you say I’m sorry, the wound will still there. Make sure you control your temper the next time you are tempted to say something you will regret later. ISI
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Tax Strategies for Large Estates By Jonathan J. David Dear Jonathan: I am a retired widower who has the good fortune of having invested very wisely over the years, and as a result, I have built up quite a substantial estate. The one negative is that even with the new $5,430,000 exemption from taxes the government is giving to everyone, if I died this year, my estate would still have to pay estate taxes. That is why I have decided that I should start an aggressive gift-giving program now. My goal is to give away enough so that my estate is no larger than $5,430,000, which will allow my estate to avoid estate tax. Does this strategy make sense? If so, what is the best way to go about making the gifts? I understand that I can make annual gifts of up to $14,000 per person without having any gift tax consequences, but making those types of gifts will not significantly reduce the size of my estate. Do you have any other suggestions? Jonathan Says: Your analysis is correct and yes, based on the information you provided; it would be a good idea to make an effort to bring your estate down to the $5,430,000 level or below. As you stated in your question, you can make an-
nual exclusion gifts of $14,000 per person without any gift tax consequences. Consequently, your goal should be to make as many of these annual exclusion gifts as possible. In addition to making annual exclusion gifts, you can make gifts in excess of that amount and although the excess will be considered a taxable gift, your $5,430,000 exemption can be used to offset that portion of the gift that is taxable. In other words, the $5,430,000 exemption from taxes that each individual gets applies not only to gifts made at death, but to gifts made during lifetime as well. For example, if you give away $1,000,000 during your lifetime, then your $5,430,000 exemption will be reduced by that amount, so that upon your death you will have $4,430,000 remaining of your exemption. If you decide to make these types of gifts, you should focus on gifting assets that are most likely to appreciate because by removing those assets from your estate, you will also be removing all of the potential appreciation from your estate. You should also consider making gifts to charities, either during lifetime or at death. So long as
those gifts are made to a qualifying charity, those gifts are both gift tax and estate tax free and will serve to reduce the size of your taxable estate, dollar for dollar. For example, if your estate is valued at $10,430,000 and you give $5,000,000 to a qualifying charity, you will receive a charitable deduction for the full amount of that gift, which will leave you with a $5,430,000 taxable estate, which is offset by the $5,430,000 exemption from estate taxes. The combination of using the charitable deduction and the $5,430,000 exemption from estate tax effectively reduces any federal estate taxes, which would have been due and owing to zero. There are other strategies you can employ to reduce the overall size of your estate or reduce the amount of federal estate taxes that would be due and owing at your death. I encourage you to visit with a knowledgeable estate-planning attorney in your area to explain further not only the concepts I have discussed herein, but also any other concepts he or she might recommend to you based on your goals and your overall circumstances. Good luck. ISI
Big Myths About Tax Code By Jordan Niefeld, CPA It’s no surprise that there is confusion and misinformation surrounding the United States tax code. With deductions, credits, adjusted gross income, exemptions, who can possibly follow it all? Since there is so much to know about taxes and also an appetite for taxpayers to learn, many make assumptions about how they think the IRS tax code works and they turn out to be false. Below are a few important myths that all taxpayers should understand: 1. A taxpayer can audit-proof his/her tax return. This is a major myth. The IRS estimates that there is over $300 billion tax dollars owed but unpaid. Sadly for the IRS, they will not be able to audit every single tax return. Only about 1% of all tax returns are audited each year. Keep in mind the more money earned and reported the more likely they will get a call from the IRS in the form of an audit. 2. A tax audit = scary IRS men in glasses at your doorstep. This is a major myth. The IRS would like to keep the audit process as easy and painless as possible. Of the approximately 1,500,000 individual income tax returns examined (audited) in fiscal 2012, only 25% were examined in the “field,” as the IRS puts it. The rest were conducted through correspondence. However, it is worth noting that when businesses are audited, they are way more likely to get a visit from the IRS in person than not. Of the over 32,000 corporation income tax returns examined in fiscal 2012 (1.6% of total corporation tax returns filed), over 95% were examined in the field. Furthermore, 100% of estate tax returns that are audited are audited in the field as well. Go figure!
3. The home office tax myth. The common myth that by running a homebased business, you can deduct all expenses related to your residence is false. It is true that many expenses are allowed; for example, you can claim some of your home maintenance and other homeownership costs as business deductions. So in other words, you may not take your entire home as a home office deduction. The IRS has implemented a new $1,500 flat home office deduction to keep it simple for those that qualify. IRS publication 587 has all the details. 4. Woo-hoo! As soon as I retire, I will be free from taxes! This is a major myth; while there are many benefits to retirement, leaving the workforce and entering your nest egg years doesn’t free you from all the requirements of paying your taxes. In some cases, even your social security benefits may be taxed. Here is the skinny. Chances are once you retire you will fall into a lower tax bracket. Keep this in mind; many financial experts will suggest that a retiree will want at minimum 65% of your preretirement income in retirement to live comfortably. Some ways to combat the tax exposure one may face in their golden years is to set up a Roth IRA. There are many tax advantages in doing so. With a Roth IRA (as opposed to a traditional IRA), one may pay their taxes upfront rather than when they withdraw. Keep in mind that you may be subject
to required minimum distributions laws come the age of 70.5. You can face tax penalties up to 50% of the amount you withdraw if you fail to take the minimum amount required from your retirement account each year. As you plan for your retirement, consult a qualified tax advisor to help you minimize the tax impact of this important transition. ISI
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Take Time For A ‘Cuppa,’ Advises Tea Expert Terry Hathaway By Dianna Troyer Three decades ago, Terry Hathaway could not foresee how sipping a simple cup of Earl Grey tea in the mornings would infuse him with a lifelong fervor for the beverage. Soon, teas of all kinds grown worldwide consumed his spare time as he sampled them at Seattle teashops where he was living. Recently, tea even guided him to a new mission in life in his mid-60s. “I’m the type of person who’s curious, and if something holds my interest, I’ll delve in and find out as much as I can about it,” says Terry, 65, who
lives in Boise, where he and his wife, Karen, 68, also from the natural chemicals infusing the recently opened their store, Joyful Tea. leaves. “Tea has become a passion for me,” says “A little bit of caffeine in tea energizes you, Terry. He has more time to devote to all things tea while another chemical called L-theanine affects since retiring from a full-time career in manage- serotonin and other neurotransmitters in the brain ment and sales, although to help you relax,” exhe still works part-time. plains Terry. “That’s “The more teas I tasted why you feel good in and learned about, the your core, and your more I wanted to learn. mood lightens when Tea is the second most you drink tea.” consumed beverage in He encourages the world behind water.” people who feel midEnrolling in classes afternoon doldrums to offered by the Specialtake a tea break. “Afty Tea Institute, he has ter drinking tea, you’ll earned the designation as get the things on your a Tea Professional. In the list done faster than if process, he has learned you had tried to power how complicated tea can Terry and Karen Hathaway met over a cup of tea and through them.” be, from picking leaves to encourage others to drink the popular beverage to Since their store help them relax and feel rejuvenated. [Photo by Dianna selecting the right tea for opened in October in occasions, to brewing a Troyer] Boise International cup. To bring out distinct Market, people from flavors, each type of tea must be steeped at a around the world have stopped in to pick from precise temperature for among the more than 120 loose-leaf teas offered. a specific time. “It’s been great to meet people from other One steaming cup cultures over tea,” says Karen. at a time, Terry says his Terry says he and Karen are offering much new mission in life is to more than tea to sip and local and national newsbring people together to papers to read. drink tea and relax. “Drinking tea is a lifestyle and ritual,” says “Tea is a conduit Terry. “Part of that ritual is chatting with someone for getting people to even if it’s just for a few minutes.” talk face to face,” says To get people together over tea, Karen applies Terry. “Tea doesn’t be- her background in education and event planlong in traffic either. Sit ning to organize tea tastings and talks by Terry down. Take the time for civic groups, church organizations, families, to relax. Take a sip. businesses, and book clubs. Visit with someone. ImWhen talking about the joys of tea, the Hamersion in technology thaways offer themselves as proof. disconnects us on a “For our first date, we met for tea,” recalls personal level, but tea Karen, who moved to Boise in 2003 to care for brings people back to- her parents. Terry moved from his native Seattle gether.” to Boise in 1997 because he wanted to live in a Taking time for tea smaller metro area. “We met through friends. We has become so pop- still take time to have tea together.” ular recently that he As for his favorites, whenever Terry brews a started a meet-up for “cuppa,” he tends to pick China or Indian black tea enthusiasts called teas. Karen prefers Oolongs, Jasmine, Chai, and Boise Let’s Do TEA! herbal teas. “We get together Whatever tea suits your tastebuds, the Hathe first Tuesday of the thaways encourage people to take a little time to month,” he says of the unwind and revive with a “cuppa.” ISI events listed on the social website, meetup. com. “Anyone is welcome.” After drinking a cup of tea together, people feel better not only from the camaraderie but A husband, who is not the most outgoing guy, relents to his wife’s months of nagging to take her out dancing. During the evening, one guy on the dance floor is giving it large – break dancing, moon walking, back flips, the works. Seeing this performance, the wife turns to her husband and says, “See that guy? Twenty-five years ago he proposed to me and I turned him down.” Her husband replies, “Looks like he’s still celebrating!” ISI
Night Out Dancing
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Treasure Valley Parrot Heads Party With A Charitable Purpose By Dianna Troyer Buffett concert in Las Vegas and learned about Rummaging through their closets, Jim and PHiP Inc. Belinda Davis have plenty of props to pick from “They’ve since moved to Hawaii,” says Jim, for outfitting themselves for any event with the “but there are still plenty of us to keep the club Treasure Valley Parrot Head Club. There are caps and tropical spirit going strong.” topped with a shark fin, a grass skirt, coconut The Treasure Valley club officially incorporated shell bra, aloha shirts, in 2008 and has about flip-flops… and more. 20 members who pay Along with their their $20 annual dues. wacky outfits, the Boise “We have a lot residents and other club more people than that members are always accome to our events companied by a yearnbecause anyone is weling to hear tropical rock come whether or not music and a yen to do you’ve paid your dues,” charitable deeds. says Belinda. “As sumThe Treasure Valley mer progresses, we get club (www.tvphc.org) more members, too. is affiliated with Parrot We’ve had as many as Heads in Paradise, Inc., 130.” a non-profit entity estabJim says memberlished in 1989. Memship surged after Jimbers have the motto my Buffett performed “party with a purpose” a concert in Boise a and do charitable and couple of years ago. At educational activities the tailgate party, hostwhile celebrating the ed by the local Parrot music of Jimmy Buffett Heads, Belinda cracked and his tropical lifestyle. up fans with her eyeThere are more than popping outfit. 200 chapters in the U.S. “I wore a skinand more in Canada, Belinda Davis swishes her grass skirt at a tailgate party toned full body leotard before a Jimmy Buffett concert in Boise a few years ago. Europe, the Caribbean, [Photo by Dianna Troyer] with a grass skirt and and Australia. a coconut-shell bra,” “People become a Parrot Head for the music, says Belinda. “The skirt is a hand-made authentic charity work, and socialization,” says Jim, TVPHC Tahitian tree bark skirt, and the coconut bra is propresident. “For me, the music drew me in. Most fessional performance quality – not your everyday of our members are older than 50, but people of costume shop variety. Whatever we do, there’s all ages are welcome. We come from all walks of always a lot of laughter.” life.” Being a Parrot Head appeals to Belinda Jim, 61, an attorney, defends local and state because “wherever we governments in lawsuits. Belinda, 59, works for travel, we know we’ll find the Idaho State Historic Preservation Office as like-minded, easygoing the historic sites registrar. people. Most would let Every April, the Parrot Heads can be counted you sleep on their couch on to staff an aid station at the 5-mile mark of a if you needed to. We popular half marathon, Race to Robie. have even taken a cou“Everyone dresses up, and we have a pirate ple of Caribbean cruises flag, a land shark flag, and other tropical props with 400 members and and music,” says Jim. gone to Key West sevClub members have also supported events eral times for the group’s that have helped more than 20 local non-profits annual ‘meeting of the including the Idaho Food Bank, Idaho Humane minds.’ Wherever we Society, Special Olympics, United Way, and the go, as we Parrot Heads American Cancer Society. say, “FINS UP” ISI The Treasure Valley club was started in 2002 after Andy and Sherry DePew went to a Jimmy
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Jennifer Spicer Films Timeless Life Lessons And Stories
they’ve done, they often see the value of their By Dianna Troyer Forget about jumping from an airplane or lives and how they’ve positively influenced their families or their circle of friends and co-workers.” touring Europe for Jennifer Spicer. Often, people in their 70s and 80s are a “Those things that are on a lot of people’s bucket lists have no interest for me,” says Jen- private generation who generally dislike talking nifer, 58, a retired California Highway Patrol about themselves and do not want to be the center of attention, she says. dispatcher and supervisor. “I tell them their experiences have an inIn 2012, she moved to the Boise area to tergenerational value live near her daughwhen articulated,” says ter, Jessica, and four Jennifer, who is willing grandchildren and beto travel to clients. gan contemplating her To help people start own bucket list. reflecting upon their “The number one lives, Jennifer wrote thing on my list is filma short workbook with ing people as they tell questions that usually the stories of their lives takes about 30 days to while they’re still able,” complete. says Jennifer, an Eagle “I want to help resident. “Their stories people think about the and the life lessons they deep issues that have want to share have valshaped their lives and ue for all generations.” how their reaction to In January, she bethose issues might help gan working on her busitheir family members,” ness, Lifestory. By July, says Jennifer. she had opened an ofThe concept for fice that serves as a Lifestory had been video recording studio churning in Jennifer’s and launched a website, Jennifer Spicer helps people reflect about their lives mind for more than a lifestoryllc.org. Jennifer says she and videotapes them as they talk about some of their decade before she relife lessons. (Photo by Dianna Troyer) tired. The idea was trigfeels compelled to make gered when tragedy video recordings that become a personalized memento for clients. struck at work. “I remember in a short time eight officers died She organizes memories, experiences, values, and messages to children, grandchildren, and suddenly from a variety of circumstances, either community in a narrative, chronological format. from heart attacks or accidents while driving,” Jennifer cherishes music and includes clients’ says Jennifer. “It made me realize the frailty of life. One officer had seven kids. I’m sure they favorite songs as background. “I play flute and all of the saxophones: bari- would have wanted to hear some of his stories tone, alto, tenor, and soprano,” says Jennifer, and reflections.” While working, she had little time to launch who performs in her saxophone quartet, L.S. Lifestory. At the end of her 30-year career, she Sax Quartet. Telling the stories not only can help family was working in San Diego at one of the busiest members who might confront similar difficulties dispatch centers in California. “When you’re working long shifts, weekends, later in their lives, it also helps the storytellers and holidays, there isn’t much time left for yourlook at their own lives in a new light. “A lot of people say they haven’t done any- self. I knew one day, I’d help families preserve thing special, but when they reflect on what their loved ones’ stories and memories.” Jennifer often had friends tell her how they had lost a family member and wished they could have captured some of their stories before they died. “People often intend to film their aging parents but put it on a back burner,” says Jennifer. “Put it on the front burner!” In hindsight, Jennifer wishes she had done that. “My parents died early, and I didn’t have time to retrieve a lot of their memories.” Her dad died in 2004 a month after being di-
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agnosed with lung cancer. “He was on so much morphine that he couldn’t answer the questions I had. It was too late. So much information about his life was lost.” Her mother died three years later from complications of diabetes. “Toward the end, she was on dialysis three times a week. I didn’t have much time, but she talked to me about things I never knew,” recalls Jennifer. “For her eulogy, I was able to put together a 15-minute life sketch with some of those anecdotes.” Jennifer recalls a few examples of how people have been changed by telling their stories. One woman said contemplating her past helped her to be optimistic about her future. Another client thanked her “for bringing LifeStory into my life. It really was a great experience.” Jennifer has several books and videos to encourage and support clients as they are going
IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 37
through the process. “I want to make this as easy as possible for everyone. Plus, I don’t want the videos to be a way of leaving someone stuck in their past,” says Jennifer, a devout Christian. “For many people, the personal reflections are a way to make an invisible God visible through their lives and to continue to grow. Wherever you are in life, you have value and can contribute to those around you and your community. There’s a reason you’re here on Earth.” She is pleased other organizations are also filming people talking about their lives. The National Funeral Home Directors Association recently launched a campaign, encouraging families “to have the talk.” Some hospice providers also film their clients. “Before it’s too late,” says Jennifer, “just rent a camcorder and get your loved ones to talk.” ISI
Donna Hiller – Paddler At Midlife Continued from front cover “My daughter, Deb LaSalle, had also done some kayaking and was very encouraging. Deme had decades of experience and taught me how to run rapids,” says Donna, who steers a 14-foot Sotar cataraft. “We know we can count on each other on a river.” Since that first float, Donna, now 65, has logged dozens of trips on rivers throughout the West and Alaska, including the Snake River through Hell’s Canyon, the Middle Fork of the Salmon, the Selway, Lochsa, and Bruneau. Her most memorable adventure was navigating the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon. “I’ve been fortunate enough to do the Grand Canyon twice,” she says of the 21-day, 280-mile trek. “For three weeks, youget to live in an amazing whole different world down there. There are so many trails to hike in the canyon.” Her willingness to try new pastimes, such as running rivers, arose from personal tragedy. “We never know what life will deal us. I was married to a tremendously active man who was a dentist. When I was 38 and he was 51, he fell in a skiing accident at Grand Targhee and became permanently paralyzed from the neck down.” She cared for him for four years, “but it was taking a toll on me. I couldn’t keep my head above water. Although we divorced, we stayed very good friends and loved and respected eventu each other. He eventucomplica ally died from complicaDonna Hiller navigates Lava Falls on the Colora- tions of his paralysis.” do River in the Grand Canyon. [Photo provided Those experiences by Donna Hiller] changed her outlook on life. “I realized how fragile life is and I had better pursue the things I truly love with a vengeance, like rafting. I never expected to be doing this later in life. Before 2000, it never occurred to me to take my own boat down a river. These days, I don’t take life for granted and am so thankful that I can be independent and physically do the things I want to do.” Whenever Donna needs a mental escape or a dose of self-confidence, she replays in her mind the incidents on her river trips, such as navigating Lava Falls, the last monstrous rapid on the Colorado River. “You hear it before you see it,” she says about the rumbling, churning water. “It’s intimidating. After scouting it and committing to a route, you go for it. When you’re done, you feel exhausted and exhilarated at the same time. After running that, you feel like you can accomplish just about anything.” During springtime, she and friends usually float the South Fork of the Payette, or the Owyhee, “wherever there’s enough water. The Owyhee hasn’t been running high enough the past few years. The great thing about living in Boise is that you can get to so many rivers within a relatively short drive.” This summer, she plans to float Hell’s Canyon and the Main Salmon River again, plus many day trips on the Payette River. “The Middle Fork is one of my favorites for the scenery and variety of rapids,” she says. “Whatever trips I end up doing, they’re always a great escape from obligations and the phone.” She encourages friends and co-workers to try a new pastime. “You never know what activity you’ll love until you get out of your comfort zone and give it a try.” ISI
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Now Is The Time To Visit All-important China By Andrea Gross, www.andreagross.com Photos by Irv Green: www.irvgreen.com I am reading the newspaper when I realize that there are almost as many articles about Beijing as there are about Washington, D.C. That is when it
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old woman who hosts us for lunch. She shows us her home, which is in a hutong, one of Beijing’s fast-disappearing old neighborhoods. The next day we visit a park where we see seniors doing tai-chi, dancing, fencing, and matchmaking. Their children, explains our guide, work such long hours that they do not have time to search for a spouse. Therefore, the parents must help. They make big signs proclaiming their child’s attributes and network with other parents. If the seniors spot a potential match, they arrange a date for their children. It is a low-tech eHarmony. My husband and I deliberately chose an itinerary that included two free days for personal exploration. In Beijing, we go to the Art District, where world-class galleries occupy Communistera factory buildings. One heart-stopping exhibition focuses on prostitution; another has a disturbing display of soldiers toting machine guns camouflaged by flowers. There is no thought suppression A typical Shanghai neighborhood is filled with multi-unit here. dwellings and small shops. In Shanghai, the energy is palpable. We walk hits me. If one of the main purposes — and plea- along the riverfront, through a shopping thoroughsures — of travel is education, then I have to go fare, and over to a public park that has carnivalto China. I need to learn more about the country style rides. After visiting a market, we go to an whose actions will affect the way I acrobatic show. live and, more importantly, the way Our days are my children will live. packed. After some research our travel During our agent books us on a 12-day tour to free day, we exBeijing and Shanghai that includes plore two conair from San Francisco; all meals, trasting neighadmissions, and transportation borhoods: a within China; guide service; and, working-class as I soon find out, very nice hotels. area filled with I do the math. Why, I can visit Chismall, slightly na for not a lot more than I would grubby shops have to pay for an all-inclusive and the French two-week vacation in California. Concession, I take a deep breath and sign on which has upthe dotted line. scale boutiques In Beijing our guide leads our and trendy ressmall group to the must-sees: Titaurants. ananmen Square, where Mao proOur guides claimed the birth of the People’s are remarkably Republic of China in 1949; the forthcoming. Forbidden City, which was home They criticize to 24 emperors; and of course, the their governGreat Wall, which was designed to ment but at protect the country against foreign the same time Beijing’s streets are a mix of old and new. invaders. make clear that To learn about more current they admire it. endeavors, we visit a jade factory, a silk factory, a They say that a U.S. style democracy could never tea plantation, and herb- work in China because there are too many people. al medicine museum. They speak to us about China’s one child But my favorite policy, religion, education, medical care, the lack of moments occur when a social safety net and, most of all, how hard they we mingle with ordinary have to work in order to survive. “We work much folks, like the 76-year- harder than people in America,” says Chang.*
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We are amazed at their misconceptions. Chang owns a condominium, can afford to fly his family from his village on the Yangtze to Shanghai for a holiday, and has a car that he bought new two years ago. His daughter has a new iPad as well as an iPod. I tell him that this is more than many people his age in the United States can afford, and yes, they work as many or more hours than he does. Another guide dreams of living on Wisteria Lane, the home of ABC’s Desperate Housewives, and we realize how television shapes Chinese views of the United States as well as our views on China. This, says my husband, is why it is
important for people to travel, to see things for themselves. We are aware that we saw only two cities, and we spoke with only a handful of people. We did not visit the countryside, which, despite China’s rapid urbanization, is still home to the majority of the population. We did not visit the factory towns that are churning out goods that are flooding the world’s markets. That will have to wait until next time. But in the meantime, we treasure the glimpse we got of a country that is, and will continue to be, a major player on the world’s stage. *Name has been changed. ISI
“Will We Ever Find A Home?” Big Hole Battlefield National Monument Revisited By Dean & Nancy Hoch Considered the site of one of the most devastating battles fought between Native American tribes and U.S. Army forces following the Civil War, what occurred at the Big Hole Battlefield in Western Montana marked a major turning point in the battles that shaped the American West. This dark spot in American history took place during an early morning surprise attack led by the U.S. 7th Infantry on August 9, 1877, and is often referred to as “the last Indian Battle.” Out of the band of 800 men, women, and children of the Nez Perce tribe who were camped in this spot, approximately 90 were killed, while 31 soldiers also died. For a period of two years, from 1885 to that fateful date in August, as they struggled to find a home, this band of 800 beleaguered Native Americans had been pushed by U.S. military forces from Northeastern Oregon, through Idaho, and into Montana. Following the battle, the remaining members of the tribe struggled to reach freedom in Canada but were stopped a final time by the U.S. military, and it was here that Chief Joseph declared, “...I will fight no more forever.” The generally peaceful Nez Perce were obviously tired of being on the run with skirmish after skirmish and battle after battle on their 1,170-mile trek. Small wonder a little Nez Perce boy would say, “Will we ever find a home?” This home for a time was to be in Oklahoma where many died. However, in the century after the great dispersion of the tribe, the Nez Perce have increased to over 5,000 members residing on three reservations in the Northwest. “Hole” in the context of the Big Hole Battlefield derives from a French term referring to a valley set among high mountains, as in Jackson Hole, Wyoming and other such high mountain town and villages. In other words, a large valley becomes a hole. While summertime is the most hospitable for hiking the area of this battlefield, wintertime is also great for quiet, undisturbed reflections in the recently redesigned battlefield museum and for thoughts of members of the Lewis & Clark expedition who passed through this same part of Montana. This, of course, was the return trip of the explorers from their conquest of the American West in the early years of the 1800s. A recent wintertime visit was special because we were the only guests
at the site on a cold March afternoon. The nearby mountains were snow-covered, and the actual field of battle white with snow. We had Park Ranger and Superintendent Steve Black all to ourselves to take us on a tour of the impressive museum and answer our many questions. We also felt unrushed watching the 26-minute video of what happened in this spot sacred to the Nez Perce tribe. In explaining the significance of the site, Black related “how incredibly special the site is to a lot of people – a meaning to them beyond words – that in spite of the tragedy of what happened here over a hundred years ago, the Nez Perce people are alive and well, and many come back to honor those that died here.” The battlefield is located about 85 miles southwest of Butte near Wisdom. You will enjoy driving along the scenic Big Hole River as it winds through valleys crested by lushly forested mountainsides. August 9 of each year is a good day to get a greater feel for the day the battle occurred. Descendants of the Nez Perce survivors meet and the peace pipe is smoked, indicating a willingness of the tribe to accept what occurred in years past – and to move on into the future. For more information, visit www.nps.gov/biho/ index.htm or call 406-689-3155. As an aside, when we left the monument, Ranger Black advised us that anyone can volunteer to work six hours a day, four days a week, to help host the site. Jobs can be anything from welcoming groups, to deskwork, to cleaning bathrooms, or whatever. Pay is $10 a day, but most of the reward is in just being a part of a great American historical site. ISI
IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 39
The Great Wall was built to protect China from nomadic tribes to its north.
PAGE 40 IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT
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Companionship Through Rock Collecting
If you tell the truth, you don’t have to remember anything. - Mark Twain
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By Jack McNeel to be an excellent way to meet and become acWhat might look like an ordinary rock to the quainted with others. Mary Lou is quick to say, average person can hide the beauty, magic, and “Companionship with other rock hounding people” mystery of the universe to Mary Lou and Jerry has been a big benefit.” She also serves as treaNorthrup, rock hounds and members of the Hells surer and is temporarily the secretary. Canyon Gem Club. After all, who isn’t a little bit “The original club was formed in 1938 and curious about a rock’s story? was called the Clearwater Rock Hounds,” Jerry Mary Lou and Jerry grew up in the Lewiston explains. During the WWII the club, as everyone area – Mary Lou graduated from Highland High did, had to scale back due to restrictions on what School in Craigmont and Jerry graduated from a person could buy. It was rejuvenated in 1952, Lewiston High School. given the new name of They were married on Hells Canyon Gem Club, Valentine’s Day in 1970. and now has about 100 After their three kids members – people of all grew up, Jerry retired ages, including a good from Potlatch Lumber number of seniors. Due Mill in Lewiston, and to falling membership, Mary Lou retired from there is no longer a juthe Lewiston school disniors club. trict. Mary Lou says. “In Jerry began collectthe last year we’ve probing rocks when he was ably had half a dozen a youngster but drifted people in their 20s or away from it as he got early 30s join.” older, married, and had Mary Lou and Jerry Northrup – and Teresa Stephenson on The club has a coua family. Retirement al- the right. They are holding samples of crystals they have ple of mineral claims collected and jewelry. [Photo by Jack McNeel] lowed Jerry to return to where members can go rock collecting. to search for particular “When we got married and he started talking gemstones. They have a crystal claim up back of about these rocks I said, ‘You’ve got to be kid- Clarkia, and just last year acquired a second claim ding!’” Mary Lou says with a laugh. “I had picked in that area where garnets are. Mary Lou says they up too many rocks and thrown them out of the also find quite a bit of petrified wood in the area, fields to pay any atten- plus fire opals. tion to rocks. Then we Rock hounds, as a group or a couple, often began going to some travel afar, since rock hounding is a hobby easily of these shows and I integrated into a vacation taken for other reasons. discovered they are not Bookstores and libraries are full of books on rocks, just ‘rocks.’ There’s all where to search, and what to discover. kinds of stuff out there. Mary Lou and Jerry certainly fit that mold. “We I was hooked. I haven’t try to go to different areas,” Jerry says. “There are been a member of the different rocks at these shows in the western U.S. gem club as long as he so we review books on where to find and dig for has, only seven or eight them.” years.” “Two of my favorite places were at Hampton Jerry and Mary Lou Butte in Oregon and the Blue Forest in Wyoming. have found member- We found petrified wood in both places, plus agship in the gem club ates and different other rocks,” Mary Lou adds. While Mary Lou enjoys collecting rocks, their outings have another dimension for her. “I love to camp! That’s the best part of the world. If I have to dig for rocks while I’m camping, that’s okay too. We have a 26-foot travel trailer and a Dodge dually pickup. We’ve been all over the western U.S.” Oregon and Montana are among their favorite places to visit. “We’ve done a lot in Oregon – the Sunstone and Hampton Butte areas and around needs of seniors since 1957. Madras and Prineville. Montana has good agates and a lot of sapphires,” Jerry reports. Group excursions add to the companionship
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and several are scheduled each year. “We’re planning a trip toward the end of August to go over near Darrington, Washington and spend about a week, coming and going and stopping to look for rocks,” Mary Lou explains. Jerry has done some cutting of stones in years past and they hope to get back into it soon. Others within the club do pretty much everything, whether it’s cutting rock into slabs, making cabochons for jewelry, faceting, tumbling, etc. The club sponsors an annual rock show in mid-October at the Lewiston Fairgrounds where much of this work and various stones are on display. Jerry comments that it’s a well-attended event each year. Rock collecting is not just for men! Women delight in finding gemstones and creating items from them. Lola Collinsworth is one such member of the Hells Canyon club, and says. “It’s been a wonderful
IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 41
experience. I’ve met new people and found many excellent artisans who are very talented in making jewelry and different ways of doing things with the rocks. “I do some cutting, polishing, and making cabochons. I do wire wrap for the jewelry and my husband does cutting and polishing. I give a lot away for gifts and try to make things for people in my mind when I find a certain rock. It also gets us outside in the fresh air as we tramp around finding pretty things. That’s always fun for me,” she says with a laugh. Teresa Stephenson says her interest in rocks goes back to childhood. “My dad was a concrete worker and would go out to get gravel, and while they were filling his truck, he’d walk around the quarry and pick up agates. I grew up with Dad bringing home a pocketful of rocks every day. I
didn’t know what they were called; I just liked my pretty rocks.” Teresa, like Lola, makes wire wrap jewelry with the stones. While other club members are more interested in larger stones, Teresa tends to look for smaller stones that she can make into jewelry. She prefers stones in the quartz family like amethysts and citrines but adds garnets as another favorite. Field trips with others have added to the experience and she tells of traveling with the Northrups nearly to the North Dakota border in search of moss agate. “It’s expanding my horizons and it’s a lot of fun,” she said. ISI
Quilting For Valor And Charity By Jack McNeel “I keep busy with my sewing machine,” Violet Opdahl says with a laugh. As a member of Quilts of Valor and Lutheran World Relief, much of that time is devoted to making quilts to recognize the contributions made by U.S. servicemen and women or for those in need. Sewing was part of her life during her early years growing up on a farm in Iowa – in 4H and in home-economics classes. She started on her first quilt before moving to Idaho but it was after settling in Pierce that she really got involved with quilting. She met her husband Duane while attending Waldorf College in Iowa and spent 56 years together before his death in 2006. Idaho became home in 1976 when they moved to Pierce where Duane and his brother operated Triple-O Outfitters. In addition to the usual hunting trips, during the Lewis and Clark Bicentennial they offered summer historical trips that followed portions of the Lewis and Clark Trail as the expedition entered Idaho from Montana heading westward toward the Pacific. “I was the kitchen flunky,” Vi explains with a laugh. “I helped with the cooking.” Vi spent 15 years as secretary at Timberline High School. “I really enjoyed the young people, and still do,” she declares. Retiring from the school job in 1995, and with more leisure time, Vi became heavily involved with quilting. Referring to her mother’s quilting, her daughter said, “Mom retired and went to pieces! Vi worked with a “fun quilting group” in Pierce and joined the Lewiston Quilts of Valor group, part of a national organization, after moving there in 2007. Vi describes the quilts as patriotic – red, white, and blue with gold sometimes added. “We also find material that focuses on the Navy, Army, or Air Force and can then make a quilt for that branch. As the organization has grown there are more wonderful fabrics we can get,” Vi explains. “It’s kind of an individual thing. We do it as we have time. At various times during the year we have
a sew-in with 15-20 people at a large enough place to have quite a few sewing machines. We all sew together and that’s always fun.” Names of local military veterans are usually gathered from friends and relatives. Initially only active military personnel received quilts, but once they discovered the many vets who had put in years of service and had not been recognized in this way, they began making quilts for them. “A friend of mine who is 90 just got his not long ago,” Vi adds. Vi’s group primarily focuses on people in the Lewiston/Clarkston area, and when more quilts are made than they have local need for; the quilts are sent to other areas. Quilts are traditionally presented at formal ceremonies, although quilters do make presentations directly. “The first one I presented through Quilts of Valor was to a man in service who is now the sheriff in Asotin, Wash.” Sharon Ledbetter leads the Lewiston Quilts of Valor group and serves as Assistant Executive Director of the national organization. There are quilters in nearby towns, Kamiah has had a presentation, and there are groups forming in Moscow and Pullman. “We’re trying to get groups in most of our communities,” Sharon says. “This is a grassroots organization that just keeps getting bigger and bigger. “Quilts made for Quilts of Valor are all
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quality fabrics meant to be a lifetime honor and award to the individual who receives them. The average cost is $250, but that is not market value. It’s just the cost of the fabric – front, back, and backing. It’s only the hard dollars spent plus some shipping.” And the numbers are impressive! “We have reached the 3,000 quilt mark since our formation in 2009. That’s a lot of quilts – but it pales in comparison to nationals. Since 2003, we have awarded 133,744 quilts. It’s absolutely amazing!” Sharon exclaims. Through her church activities, Vi learned about Lutheran World Relief. “About seven women get together to quilt every Monday morning. We enjoy the time together, and we’ve done a lot of quilts this year.” Some of the
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material is purchased but much comes from church donations. “It comes from someone who doesn’t quilt anymore or whose mother or grandmother died and left a bunch of fabric,” Vi explains. Although quilts are usually shipped away, they are given locally too. The group recently gave five quilts to two families that had been burned out of their homes. And not all of her quilts leave the family. “My ten grandchildren have each received a graduation quilt that I’ve made and each of my children has received a 25th anniversary quilt.” Besides quilting, Vi enjoys watching sports. Vi Opdahl (R) and Sharon Ledbetter (L) show one of the “I was recently at a girls basketball game. I many beautiful quilts that Vi has made over the year. know one of the player and her family, so I go to [Photo by Jack McNeel] the games to root for her,” she says. Her daughter recently took her to a Gonzaga game. “That was about it, and Wyoming Wildlife printed the story.” Vi’s schedule would keep most people very wonderful,” she exclaims. Vi has also done some writing including an busy but Vi, who is turning 85, wouldn’t have it any article about a Wyoming hunting trip with her hus- other way. ISI band. “It was such a wonderful experience I wrote
Bob Bjerke – A Lifetime Interest In Trains, Big And Small
By Jack McNeel Bob Bjerke’s interest in trains dates to his childhood in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. “I always liked railroads,” he says. There was a track not far from his home and he’d run to watch the trains pass. “You could hear them coming. They were steam engines, puffing, and you could hear them a long ways off. In fact the way I first learned to read was reading slogans on box cars, like Everywhere West, Ship it on the Frisco, and so on.” And Bob’s interest has never faded. He now has a model train setup in his basement in Lewiston with a dual track main line that runs through three rooms and stretches 200 feet. This isn’t the first modeling he’s done and there’s usually change as his little boxcars and locomotives evolve as major train lines do. Between that early interest as a child and his interest today, Bob’s career took several turns unrelated to railroading. Bob graduated with a degree in chemistry while his wife to be, JoAnn, was getting her degree in psychology. This was 1963 and the draft was looking at him, so he enlisted and was sent to Fort Leonard Wood where he was scheduled to go into pharmacy. “Then one day I was in a tent in a snowstorm and someone came in and said, ‘Come on Bjerke. Get out of there; you’re getting promoted.’ Darned if they didn’t take me to regimental headquarters, pin bars on me, swear me in, and send me off for chemical training.” From there
Bob was assigned to Dunway Proving Grounds in Utah where they worked with nerve gas and bioagents. After military service, he got a job at Twin City Arsenal in Minneapolis for four years. That was followed by seven years doing cosmetics chemistry. Then he saw an ad for an ammunitions chemist in Idaho with Omark Industries, later to be CCI. He called about the job and talked with the plant manager. “He was a sort of growly old guy with a thick accent. I asked why they needed a chemist and in a gruff voice he replied, ‘Because the other one got blown up.’” That was kind of scary but I interviewed, got the job, and have been here ever since.” During his years in the Twin Cities, Bob’s house had a big basement, good for someone with a penchant for trains. He purchased an HO gauge railroad from a hobby store and began modeling the Burlington route. “I had that basement pretty well filled up. Then Burlington merged with the Great Northern and Northern Pacific to make Burlington Northern,” he says with a laugh. “I ended up repainting locomotives and that sort of thing.” Much of Bob’s train setup accompanied them to Lewiston. With another basement, he set about rebuilding and ended up doing the Burlington Northern and Union Pacific in HO scale. “That was up until we started having kids and needed an extra bedroom in the basement,” Bob explains. The train gear went into storage. “I missed it,” he says, “so I got into scale modeling. I was interested in the North African campaign and I did the African Corps and the British. I had almost every regiment you can think of in that African campaign so I thought, ‘How about the Russian front.’ I painted them all, put them in boxes, and labeled them by divisions. Boxes and boxes and boxes. I built a terrain table. My wife says I tend to
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get overly involved. I end up with way too much.” During his 25 years working in the ammunition industry in Lewiston Bob worked up to being in charge of initiating explosives production and laboratory operations. He created a number of ideas that were worthy of being patented. “I got a plaque that has about 15 different patents on it. That was kind of interesting,” Bob explains. Even now, 12 years after retirement, he is still occasionally consulted on problems. As Bob’s daughters grew up and moved away
– both now have Ph.D.s – basement space again became available for Bob’s model trains, but this time Bob chose N scale which is about half the size of HO scale. “Now I can get a lot more terrain, countryside, and longer trails in the same amount of space. I started with one empty room and made that the Union Pacific line from Pocatello to Ogden. Then like everything else, it kind of got out of control.” Bob then found a way to run the railroad farther east, building scenery and towns along the route. “The buildings are made of cardboard,” Bob explains. “Add a little detail, paint them, and they look pretty good.” Add miniature animals, automobiles and other machinery, plus tiny streetlights, sound effects, and one begins to understand the complexity of the entire railroad setup. “Railroad cars can age out of date,” Bob says. When that happens, he remakes his cars into something else, perhaps a flatbed. Then he purchases new ones that are replicas of current trains. “I have a string of about 20 refrigerator cars that I’m going to replace to keep up with the modern ones.” The railroads come together at Granger, Wyo. “Everything from the southwest to the northwest comes through there so I had to create that,” he explains. “By this time it was beginning to spiral up so my bridge across the door is about five feet high. That allowed me to spiral up so I got all the way to Cheyenne, building scenery along the way
Moscow Is On Where to Retire’s List Of 8 Great Small Towns By Bernice Karnop It’s always nice to be noticed! Congratulations to Moscow for being on Where to Retire magazine’s 8 Great Small Towns. The article is in the March/April 2015 issue. We’d say Moscow’s on Idaho’s list of 8 Great Big Towns, but we understand the confusion for people who live in Los Angeles, Dallas, or New York City. And we certainly understand why it’s a good place to retire. Many of the people lucky enough to retire to Moscow from elsewhere tell us that people here are friendly, relaxed, and unpretentious. The climate is reasonable, the outdoor recreation is virtually unlimited, and broad mountain and prairie vistas frame the area. Residents don’t worry so much about crime, and traffic slowdowns are as likely due to livestock relocation as numbers of cars. Most newcomers don’t feel deprived of the finer things available in cities, either. Moscow, like other towns in Idaho, provides stellar health care, cultural offerings, many from the University of Idaho, fine restaurants, good shopping, and
entertainment. Rural folks take it for granted that they’ll have to drive for these things, and they don’t complain about it. A drive to Moscow is a treat, not a chore. According to the magazine, 700,000 Americans relocate each year to new towns to retire. The relocating retirees are welcome, not only because they bring economic benefits but also because they contribute to the community through service, energy, fresh skills, new ideas, and enthusiasm. Where to Retire editor Annette Fuller says, “These smaller communities offer a laid-back lifestyle with less time constraints, a lower cost of living, and even the opportunity to walk to your destination – no cars necessary.” She adds, “Knowing your neighbors and a little small-town politeness also go a long way.” We agree! The other seven Great Small Towns listed in Where to Retire’s cover story are Mount Dora, Florida; Madison, Georgia; Danville, Kentucky; Northport Alabama; Columbus, Mississippi; Rockport, Texas; and Helena, Montana. ISI
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and adding freight cars and engines. “Then I negotiated with my wife and said, ‘You don’t use that laundry sink in the laundry room, do you mind if I run a railroad through there up high?’ She said, ‘No, go ahead.’” Bob opened a hole through the wall and the trains now pass from room to room. That brought the trains to their piano room, which is now the third room for this extensive railroad set up. That takes the track to North Platte, Neb. and across a six-foot high bridge in the room and on to Omaha where it ends. If you’re getting the idea that this is a major, many year project, you are right. He keeps track of it all on his computer and says he now has about 640 railroad cars and over 100 locomotives with a dual track main line that extends for 200 feet. Kids love to see the train but the problem for them is that it starts 50 inches above the floor and most runs well over their heads. “I spend a lot of time myself up and down a step stool,” Bob says chuckling. Three or four years ago, the Northwest Regional Model Train Society toured his layout. Bob says it’s not very exciting, in part because it doesn’t loop around. “It goes from point to point – what they call a stub end.” Others might disagree with the not exciting part. Certainly, this hobby of monumental proportions reflects years of love. Bob Bjerke started with his love of trains as a child – and that love remains to this day. ISI
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