montanaseniornews.com TAKE ONE! FREE! One For The Bucket List: Tandem Parachuting
By Gail Jokerst; www.gailjokerst.com When asked by her family how she would like to celebrate her 80th birthday, Barbee Dick offered an answer that caught them all by surprise. “I told them I wanted to go parachuting. They thought I was crazy and wondered why I’d want to jump out of a perfectly good airplane,” recalls Barbee. “All I could say is that it’s something I’ve always wanted to do. I saw George H. Bush jump in Yuma and knew I could do it, too. You just hang there and someone takes care of you. All you have to do is keep your feet up and you’re ready to go.” While that is true as far as it goes, other factors do need to be considered
Above, Barbee Dick and Gary Saunders glide to earth during the undercanopy phase of their tandem parachute jump. What a way to celebrate an 80th birthday! [Photo courtesy of Skydive Montana] no matter how many years a potential parachutist has trod the planet. According to Gary Sanders, the owner of Skydive Montana who tandem jumped with Barbee last summer, clients must be in good physical shape – no heart conditions – and weigh less than 220 pounds to fit into the parachute harness. Additionally, they have to be able to remain on bent knees for five minutes in the plane before crawling out onto the step and getting up from that position. Barbee chose wisely when she selected Gary as her jump partner. With over 10,000 jumps to his credit, Gary is not only one of the most accomplished skydivers in the West but in the world. He has participated on national and world championship teams as well as in the opening skydiving ceremony for the 1988 Olympics in Seoul. “Korea was the best jump I ever made. It was the most watched jump ever,” states Gary, whose wife Tina handles Skydive Montana’s bookings along with the video portion of each flight. “About two billion people saw us form the color-coded Olympic rings mid-air. We drifted separately by color down to the ground and as we got closer, we could feel the heat of the Olympic torch.” (You can view the jump at www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhNT3b0UbQk Gary and Tina launched Skydive Montana in 1992 with a focus on tandem parachuting soon after new harness equipment made paired jumps possible. They immediately saw the appeal and potential of this reliable buddy system for a local as well as seasonal clientele. “I thought it would be fun to take people on a first jump that included a 30-to-50 second free fall. We would descend at about 125 to 150 miles per hour but it would feel more like a 200-mph motorcycle ride. That would be followed by a canopy ride of 5 or 10 minutes,” says Gary, who accurately forecast the popularity of the new sport. (Continued on page 36)
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MONTANA SENIOR NEWS PAGE 3
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Colleen Paduano
I must admit I was taken aback by the December/January 2015 cover of Montana Senior News. Not only was a senior not featured, but also the promoted product was alcohol. I realize that it would be some sort of reverse ageism to complain that a young man was featured and that only 60+ people should be on the cover. I suppose a bright teenage entrepreneur could be the spotlight now and again, but I will stand my ground that drinking is no activity to be pushed. Those of us in our seventies have seen ample examples that alcohol is a fair weather friend. It is an enjoyable companion in the short-term but one cannot live a life without seeing heartbreaking results down the road.
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I am responding to the Will the 2015 Montana Legislature Address the Need for Medical Marijuana? article in the Dec 2014/Jan 2015 issue of the Montana Senior News. Since that article was published, there have been changes in Montana’s medical marijuana law and I want to provide an update. On January 2, 2015, Judge Reynolds permanently blocked four of the six provisions that were being challenged in his court. There was already a temporary injunction blocking their enforcement, so it doesn’t change things that much. What it does do is give patients and providers a little sense of security. The parts of the law that are now permanently blocked include the ban on advertising, the threepatient limit for providers, the ban on providers accepting payment, and the automatic Medical Board Review of any doctor who refers more than 25 patients. The two provisions that remain intact allow law enforcement and the Department of Public Health and Human Services to make unannounced inspections of providers during normal business hours and forbid people under the supervision of the Montana Department of Corrections, including those on probation, from obtaining a medical marijuana card. It is likely the 2015 Montana Legislature will reexamine our medical marijuana law. One bill that
has been introduced already and essentially repeals our voter initiative is entitled “An act making drugs listed in schedule 1 of the Federal Controlled Substances Act illegal in Montana.” Marijuana is currently listed as a schedule 1 drug. That listing is being challenged in court, but until something changes, if this bill passes it would make medical marijuana illegal in our state once again. This completely undermines our right as Montana citizens to pass voter initiatives. I urge you to contact your state representatives and tell them you are against this bill, unless they include a provision allowing for medical marijuana. Ewout van Garderen Herb Pharmer Bozeman
The Montana Senior News is published six times each year in February, April, June, August, October and December at 415 3rd Avenue North, Great Falls, MT 59401 and is distributed free to readers throughout the state of Montana. The mail subscription rate is $10.00 per year (6 issues). The Montana Senior News is written to serve the reading interests of mature Montanans 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 Montana Senior News 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.
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When a person is young, one may not have seen the problems with this leading drug of addiction in our nation. When we have a few decades of hard-won experience under our belts, we must call a spade a spade; drinking can be a dangerous pastime! This is not to criticize anyone – publisher, writer, or businessperson – but it is my duty to be the “watchman on the wall” decrying the downsides of this drug, no matter how well established this drug has become. Daniel R. Peterson Bozeman
Help Others And Feel Good Yourself
The Senior Companion Program is always looking for volunteers 55 years or older to serve in all areas of Montana and willing to work 15-40 hours/week helping adults with special needs remain independent and living in their own home.
In the Great Falls area we have nine Senior Companions serving over 50 people with services such as transportation, companionship, assisting with simple chores, and adding richness to their lives. I am a Senior Companion and Volunteer Leader, and I think the program is a way to help others and feel the satisfaction of getting out and meeting new people. I hear many times that I am “an angel” and that my clients don’t know what they would do without me because “I am their lifeline.” My supervisor Betty Langan feels the program “helps keep seniors in their own homes making their lives a little better. It does your heart good to know as a Senior Companion you are allowing clients to share past memories, laugh, and have a good time!” Activities we do can include going to baseball games, concerts, school programs, restaurants, movies, feeding the ducks/geese, or just people watching. Playing cards, doing puzzles, and writing letters are also favorite activities. The Senior Companion Program offers a taxfree stipend and limited benefits to its volunteers. So, if you have a compassionate heart, need a little extra cash, and want to feel good at the end of the day, please join us. For more information, call Tammy Scoggin, Senior Companion Coordinator, at 406-457-7325 or 1-800-356-6544. Karen Ruybal Great Falls MSN
Warning: The Legislature Is Back In Session – Watch For Tricks… But What About Treats? By Bob Campbell Over the past fifty years, I have watched and testified before various committees of the Montana legislature, and I have seen first hand the various highs and lows of parties in power. All Montana office holders before serving must publically say and physically sign an oath to support, defend, and protect the U.S. and Montana Constitutions. As a delegate to the Montana Constitutional Convention, I served on the Bill of Rights Committee, and I know when legislators are violating their oath of office. The 1889 Montana Constitution was written by men such as its president, copper king William A. Clark who used that opportunity to exempt mining from taxation. This remained in the constitution until the voters repealed it in1923. Today as in past sessions when one party had a super majority controlling both houses, the temptation for abusing that power becomes obvious. William Pitt, a member of the British House
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2015
of Lords in 1887, said, “Power tends to corrupt; absolute power corrupts absolutely.” This session started out proving he was right. The republican leadership, giddy with their newly acquired power, immediately proclaimed they were above the law and held a secret meeting. In addition, all house members were told for the first time since Bannack was Montana’s capital that they could not wear jeans while serving in the House. Actions speak louder than words. After stacking the committees against minority democrats, the leadership announced proudly that they could now stop any bill they oppose from getting out of either chamber.
MONTANA SENIOR NEWS PAGE 5
The one thing they cannot stop is the continuing television coverage from committee hearings to floor debates and all votes. They know that all voters and the children in every school district will be watching as they enact legislation to cut education, health benefits, privacy rights, and food programs. The last thing we need is more tricks and false treats from the legislative leadership as they cut essential programs to justify their stated goal of returning tax dollars to the special interests that funded their election. MSN
Montana Territory and the Civil War: by Ken Robison Reviewed by Bernice Karnop Montana Territory and the Civil War? If you think that is a stretch, check out Great Falls historian Ken Robison’s latest book, Montana Territory and the Civil War: A Frontier Forged on the Battlefield. It’s chock full of surprises about how the Civil War and the political maelstrom surrounding it formed Montana’s future. Montana wasn’t a territory when the war started and it wasn’t a state for many years after the war. Still the politics brewing on the east coast spilled across the continent causing battles of wills and words in Montana, if not of bullets and bayonets. The book examines the development of Montana under an overlay of the Civil War. Those who love the surprises and conundrums embedded in Montana’s story will meet some new characters and find new ways of looking at familiar stories. One early “battle” was fought shortly after 10,000 miners flooded Alder Gulch in June 1863. They drew up papers naming the new town Varina. Judge Dr. G.G. Bissell refused to allow the town to be named for the first lady of the Confederacy and he changed it to Virginia City. The 150th anniversary of the Civil War, 2011 through 2015, motivated Robison to write about the subject. He started with monthly stories in the Great Falls Tribune and the River Press (Fort Benton). Then The History Press contacted him about writing about Montana and the Civil War for a series it was doing for the Sesquicentennial. The book came out in the fall of 2013. Robison hopes it fires up Montanans’ interest in the role the Civil War played in our own history. He points out that Montana became a Territory on May 26, 1864, almost 150 years ago. The formation of the Territory seems today like an uncontroversial decision, but that was not the case in 1864. In fact, without events that prompted the Civil War, it’s likely that we’d be waiting to celebrate such a milestone for years to come. Robison explains that the South did not want the west developed. They wanted to be sure slave and free states were admitted equally. They blocked key legislation like the Homestead Act, the Morrill Land Grant Act, which led to land grant colleges, and the Pacific Railway Act, along with the abolition of slavery. When the southern states seceded and the southern legislators left Washington, these four key pieces of legislation sailed through Congress. Much of Montana Territory and the Civil War tells the story of individuals who came to Montana, people like George Armstrong Custer and Frances Meagher, who are prominent in Montana history books, as well as those who are relatively unknown. Through their lives readers get the broader picture of how the Civil War molded our history. Nicolas Wall, for example, was a Confederate prisoner of war. Captured along with the Missouri
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PAGE 6 MONTANA SENIOR NEWS
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Militia in July 1861, his parole required that he either remain in St. Louis or go to the western territories. He came to Montana in the spring of 1862 and became a productive and prominent citizen. Joe Meek fought with the all African American 54th Massachusetts in the segregated Union Army. Their commander, Colonel Robert Gould Shaw, for whom Fort Shaw and the town of Fort Shaw were named, led the assault on Fort Wagner that killed or wounded about half of the regiment. Meek was a survivor, settled in Great Falls, became a leader in the black community and the Republican Party. “The war was not experienced only by men,” Robison points out. Robison discovered letters by Harriet Lewis while she worked for the Freedmen’s Bureau teaching freed slaves in the South. The Freedmen’s Bureau’s job was to help freed slaves adjust successfully during Reconstruction. General O.O. Howard, headed the Freedmen’s Bureau. He promoted education, medical care, and food distribution but met with stiff resistance, including that of President Andrew Johnson. The final chapter in Montana and the Civil War revisits the question of how the Civil War affected Montana. Perhaps two monuments symbolize that chapter titled, “The Legend of Victory and the Lost Cause Live On.” First, the only monument to the Confederacy in the Northwest stands in Helena’s Hill Park, a granite fountain inscribed “A Loving Tribute to Our Confederate Soldiers.” In Highland Cemetery in Great Falls, stands a second unusual monument, the first in the nation to honor both those who fought for the North and those who fought for the South. Veterans who are buried on the north and south sides of the monument. Montana Territory and the Civil War: A Frontier Forged on the Battlefield by Ken Robison, is available in bookstores and museums across the state and from Amazon.com. MSN
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Custer’s Gold by M. John; Lubetkin; Bookstand Publishing, CA; 2014 Reviewed by Connie Daugherty It all started in 1864 in Virginia City, Montana, “We burst into the Allen & Millard Bank…our guns drawn and bandanas covering our faces… at Jackson’s assay office we struck it rich beyond our dreams.” The robbers’ dreams would quickly become nightmares and the stolen gold a legend. Nearly ten years later a crew of surveyors working for the newly founded Northern Pacific Railroad set out to find the best route from the Midwest to the Pacific coast. But that wasn’t all they were looking for. Told in memoir style, Custer’s Gold is an historical novel about the development of the Northern Pacific railroad. Award winning author, John Lubetkin, presents a detailed and extensively researched history of the planning of the northern railroad route. He cleverly deals with Located in beautiful Great Falls, we pair fine the political, financial, comfort and hospitality with exceptional and personal manipulaservice and accommodations. tions that went on behind Call (406) 727-0447 today to see for the scenes during this yourself why our community is such dynamic time of westan exceptional place to live. ward movement. But it is the search of the mythical stash of gold buried along the Yellowstone brookdale.com River that carries the Emeritus® at Cambridge Place story. Lubetkin blends Independent Living historical fact with fiction 1104 Sixth Avenue North | Great Falls, MT 59401 so smoothly that only by reading the appendices
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can you separate the two. The narrator of the story is 87-year-old Edward (Ned) Jordan looking back on the adventure of a lifetime – an adventure that includes barroom brawls, a love affair with a married woman, as well as political and person subterfuge. Although the story is mostly Ned’s, we also occasionally see events unfolding through the perspective of Mack McGillicuddy. In 1868, Ned was twenty-five, fresh out of college and “green as grass, able to leap like an antelope, and self-confident to the point of stupidity.” Ned is hired as part of a survey team to map a route from Minnesota westward. “Into this desolate area we surveyors – with enthusiasm and naiveté – marched with poor maps…the Little Missouri River presented a huge question mark. Gold strikes were being made all along the planned route, and prospectors everywhere.” Ned was a surveyor, eager for adventure and discovery, but, “as for gold, I never gave it a thought.” At least that’s how it was at first. Ned first heard the legend of the hidden gold at a meeting of Northern Pacific leaders where he had been included because of his uncle’s connections. “It was only at that moment…that the sun abruptly shown into my brain: I had been invited to take part in an elaborate deception…Never for a second did I question my unethical role.” An important part of Ned’s surveying duties for the Northern Pacific became secretly discovering and retrieving the hidden gold. But he is not the only one with a secret mission, Mack McGillicuddy who hires on as a cook for the survey crew also has a hidden agenda. “My real name is Thomas Dugan…in Montana known as Tom Donovan,” and wanted for “murder…and likely a few other charges.” Those charges included robbery, “I didn’t have to go looking for gold; I re-
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2015
membered exactly where I’d buried hundreds of pounds of it.” But almost ten years have passed since the day the gold was buried and a lot can happen in ten years. Secrets are hard to keep under difficult circumstances. A dying man’s confession changes everything. “Suddenly I found myself caught between the Devil (Rosser) and the deep blue sea (President Smith and my late Uncle Archibald), the one tugging at my increasing greed and the other at my receding conscience.” Surveying could only be done in the spring and summer months, so during the winter, Ned and his crew returned to their respective homes in Minnesota or the east – Portland, Maine for Ned where he falls in love. Meanwhile political and financial posturing and problems continue to plague the Northern Pacific. More secrets, more personal agendas, including those of the Hunkpapa and the Sioux develop. The next season brings the crew closer to the Yellowstone River as the search for a safe and secure route for the railroad as well as the hunt for the gold continues when the weather changes. So does the makeup of the gold hunting crew as Ned and Rosser determine that if the gold exists and if they find it, they can’t retrieve it on their own. “The next morning Mack said yes. Within hours Red, Eck and Charlie also signed on.” Then General George Armstrong Custer – “Armstrong, nobody called him George” – comes on the scene and insinuates himself into the plan. More people, more complications, more of a sense of urgency, and more distractions.
“While we’d been concentrating on the gold, forty miles upstream…Sitting Bull had established a large hunting camp, Miniconjou and Cheyenne had joined him…Hunkpapa and the Oglala.” Suddenly the surveyors find themselves in a battle alongside their military escorts. Custer’s experience as a military strategist comes in handy, saving their lives and more. But after the close call with death, Ned questions his obsession with the gold. Is it worth losing any more lives? Is it cursed as some say? In Custer’s Gold, John Lubetkin takes the reader from the end of the Civil War and expansion of the westward movement to the Panic of 1873. He places fictional characters and events in the middle of an exciting factual environment and keeps the suspense going until the end with unexpected twists and turns. Does the gold exist? Can it be discovered and retrieved? Who will get it? When does Donovan’s gold become Custer’s gold? How this all plays and how it affects the lives of the people involved is what drives the story behind the history. Although the pace seems to slow sometimes with detailed descriptions of the surveying processes and an occasional typographical error, the story is intriguing enough to carry it all off. Extensive appendices reveal the research involved and provide readers with opportunities to learn more about this dynamic and interesting era of American history. Custer’s Gold is definitely a recommended read. MSN
MONTANA SENIOR NEWS PAGE 9
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The 47th Governor’s Conference on Aging/Montana Gerontology Society Gathering in Helena, May 12-14, 2015 will Spotlight Alzheimer’s Disease By Bernice Karnop This year’s Governor’s Conference on Aging (GCA) is of special interest to individuals who want to learn about the complexities of Alzheimer’s disease and the services available to Montanans, according to organizer, Jacqueline Stoeckel, Program Specialist, Montana Office on Aging. The single-location conference will be held in conjunction with the Montana Gerontology Society and is titled Insights into Alzheimer’s Disease – Lifespan Respite Care and Other Aging Resources and Supports. It’s estimated that 35 Montanans turn 65 every day. In ten years, twentyfive percent of our citizens will be older than 65, and the percentage will be highest, around 40 percent, in our rural counties. Providing quality services to those in Montana’s small communities and cities is the ever more challenging goal. This conference will help people identify the services available now and help prepare for what they may need in the future. Keynote speakers who are outstanding in the field will bring fresh information. They include Martha Roherty, Executive Director, National Association of States United for Aging and Disabilities; Jill Kagan: ARCH National Respite Network and Resource Center; Traci Clark, Project Director, You may qualify for free assistive telephone equipment through the Money Follows the Person Project; Howard Federoff, Executive Dean of the School of Medicine, Montana Telecommunications Access Program! Georgetown University; Pat Coon, MD, Internal Medicine, Billing Clinic; Dena Shenk, Graduate Director, Gerontology Program and Professor of AnThe Montana Telecommunithropology, University of North Carolina, Charlotte. Equipment available cations Access Program Planned workshops cover topics such as lifesthrough MTAP includes: (MTAP) provides FREE assistive pan respite, tools for caregivers, stress and care • Amplified telephones telephone equipment to giving, estate planning, and more. Mini-grants will • Captioned telephones be awarded and Centenarians will be honored at those who qualify, making it • Loud bell ringers TTYs a luncheon May 12. easier to use the phone to • Artificial Larynxes The highlight of day one is the Centenarian do business or keep in touch Luncheon. Readers are asked to help the Gover• And much, much more! with family and friends. nor’s Advisory Council identify Montanan’s who are 100 years old or better, and those who reach 100 years old by December 31, 2015, even if they’ve been recognized before. Each bonus year is worth Return form to: MTAP Yes, I want to learn more about MTAP! celebrating! Each centenarian receives a certificate P. O. Box 4210, Helena, MT 59604 from the Governor and is invited to the Centenarian Name: ____________________________________ Address: __________________________________ luncheon at the GCA. At last year’s conferences in Kalispell and Bozeman, 90 centenarians were City: ______________________________________ State: _____________ Zip Code: _______________ recognized and 22 were honored in person. Phone: _____________________________________ This year, the Council also plans to honor the oldest World War II veteran. Please let them know if you fit this category or if you know someone who does. For more information just mail us this form or call toll-free 1-800-833-8503 Find the Centenarian Information Form on the
If you have difficulty understanding words clearly over the phone, just fill out this form!
PAGE 10 MONTANA SENIOR NEWS
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Aging Services web site at dphhs.mt.gov/sltc. Click on Governor’s Conference on Aging to find the link to centenarian search. The site will show further information about the conference as well. You may also call Senior and Long Term Care at 406-444-4077 or email questions to jstoeckel@ mt.gov. The mailing address is Centenarians, DPHHS – SLTC – Aging Services, PO Box 4210, Helena, MT 59604-4210. Stoeckle says, “This conference is a wonderful opportunity for individuals to learn more
about Alzheimer’s disease. Caregivers and family members will be encouraged by networking with others and learning about services available here in Montana.” Stoeckle expects to see the Red Lion Colonial in Helena packed with 400 enthusiastic people in May. Registration costs only $75 for the three day, two-conference event, and that includes all of the sessions, the generous coffee breaks, and three luncheons. Individuals may attend single days for $35. MSN
A New High-Tech Image For Colonoscopies NAPSI – There’s actually some good news for those in need of a colonoscopy. New technology is offering patients more comfort when undergoing the test. It also potentially enables medical professionals to complete the exam in less time than when performed with existing equipment. Currently, there are over 12 million colonoscopies performed each year in the U.S. The demand is driven by the fact that colon cancer is the second most prevalent form of cancer and that early detection through screening offers a better chance of beating the disease. One of the biggest challenges with colonoscopies is “looping,” where the colonoscope overlaps and causes patient discomfort and slows down the procedure. ScopeGuide from Olympus is a new technology that assists physicians during a colonoscopy. It is designed to identify and mitigate loops, which can increase patient comfort and reduce procedure time. The new technology shows an accurate 3-D reconstruction of the position and configuration of the endoscope position within the colon that is
refreshed multiple times per second for real-time viewing. Physicians can now view the image provided by the device alongside the endoscopic image when they use it in conjunction with a monitor with picture-in-picture functionality. As a result, they only have to view a single monitor. There is evidence that professionals in the field have a positive response to the technology. For example, when asked about his experience using the device, Steven Lichtenstein, D.O., Director of the Division of Gastroenterology, Medical Director, Endoscopy/GI Lab at Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital, said that using it had decreased the time required for a colonoscopy and that he now uses it for every colonoscopy he performs. Lichtenstein said, “The efficiencies created by ScopeGuide include improved patient comfort and a more precise anatomical location for where your scope is at any point during the procedure.” ScopeGuide is an integral part of Evis Exera III, the Olympus endoscopy platform. For additional information, call 800-848-9024 or visit the website at www.olympusamerica.com/scopeguide. MSN
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Colorectal Cancer And Crohn’s Disease – What’s The Link? By Sarah Jenkins If you have Crohn’s disease, should you be more worried about developing colon cancer? The answer, unfortunately, is yes. Many of the forms of inflammatory bowel disorder (IBD) have shown an increase in the risk of colon cancer. However, having Crohn’s disease does not emphatically mean you will develop cancer; in fact, 90% of IBD patients do not acquire cancer. A link has been shown to exist between Crohn’s disease and an increased chance of developing cancer; however, this risk is greatly increased if you have had IBD for an extensive period, such as 8-10 years, and it affects the entirety of your colon. If, on the other hand, only a small part of your colon is involved and you have not had the disease for a long period, you are less likely to develop cancer. Likewise, if Crohn’s does affect other areas of your digestive tract and not your colon, you are at less risk. Unfortunately, inactive Crohn’s disease is just as likely to develop colon cancer as the active disorder. Therefore, the original onset of symptoms matters more than the frequency or intensity of flare-ups. It is sometimes difficult to detect colon cancer in Crohn’s sufferers as the early symptoms often mimic those of IBD. Diarrhea and rectal bleeding are common among Crohn’s patients and may not cause concern. As an extra precautionary measure, you should see your gastroenterologist at least once a year if you have had Crohn’s for more than 8 years. It may be necessary to have
regular colonoscopies to identify any possible problems early. During a colonoscopy, your gastroenterologist may identify concerns from the appearance of your colon, as well as take biopsies to examine possibly affected tissue. Unfortunately, a colonoscopy is not guaranteed to detect cancer if it is present; however, a colonoscopy with multiple biopsies is the most reliable means currently available. If you particularly concerned about developing colon cancer, you should discuss your situation with your doctor, as well as do additional research on the subject. You should understand you will not necessarily develop cancer simply because you have Crohn’s disease. There are also support groups and agencies, such as the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA), that are available to offer information and literature on the likelihood of developing cancer, as well as general information about your condition. The most effective measures you can take are regular doctor visits and healthy living to ensure ongoing wellbeing. EzineArticles. com/128037. MSN
Are Sleep Apnea And Snoring Hurting Your Heart And Your Love Life? By Barbara O’Brien Trumblee Does your mate’s snoring wake you up? Has it gotten so bad that you’ve moved to a different bedroom? Are you at risk for heart attack? Let’s talk. I might be able to help. There are several reasons that people snore, but you should be aware of a potentially serious sleep disorder that is quite common and closely associated with snoring, obstructive sleep apnea. Not all snorers have sleep apnea, but most people with sleep apnea do snore. During an episode of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), muscles in the back of your throat relax during sleep and restrict airflow, reducing the amount of oxygen that gets into your bloodstream. You may stop breathing for 10 to 20 seconds. Oxygen levels decrease and carbon dioxide levels in the blood increase, signaling the brain to wake you briefly, so you can start breathing again. This can happen a hundred or more times in a night. Because of these episodes, you spend much more of your sleep time in a light sleep, rather than the deep restful sleep that you need. Most people with OSA are not even aware that they have the disorder. How can you know if you have obstructive sleep apnea? Here are several clues that should alert you: • Snoring loudly enough that it wakes up you or another person. • Several seconds of not breathing during sleep, often followed by a loud snort or choking sound. Someone else would have to tell you if this is happening, since you would probably not wake yourself enough to remember that it happened.
Great Falls & Surrounding Areas
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At the electric company: We would be delighted if you send in your payment. However, if you don’t, you will be delighted.
• Not feeling rested when you awake and daytime sleepiness. • Morning headaches. • Irritability. • Lack of concentration. • Dry throat and mouth. In addition to these annoying symptoms, there are long-term effects to untreated OSA, including increased risk for high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, depression, and surgical complications. Did I mention your partner’s irritability because of disturbed sleep? If these symptoms seem all too familiar to you, call your health professional and ask about it. Several factors contribute to your risk for obstructive sleep apnea. Excess weight, alcohol consumption, and smoking are major risk factors. We lose muscle tone as we age, including in those muscles that are in the throat. Men are more likely to snore and have OSA than women are. Other factors that contribute to the likelihood and severity of OSA are sinus and nasal issues, congestion, and certain medications, especially those that increase muscle relaxation as you sleep. Dr. Tom Anderson, DDS, who is trained and experienced with oral appliance therapy for snoring and OSA, says that your dentist is often the first health professional to suspect sleep apnea. Dr. Anderson often witnesses episodes of loud snoring and apnea first-hand during dental procedures in which he uses conscious sedation on a patient. Your dentist can work together with your physician and possibly a sleep specialist to determine the best course of treatment for you. What comes next? Your health professional will need to perform a sleep study, either at a sleep center or at home. This study will monitor blood oxygen saturation levels, heart rate, respiration rate, and may record brain waves and leg movements while you sleep. Once the results of the sleep study are in, possible treatments can be considered. There are a number of treatment options. Work with your health professional to determine which is best for you. If your snoring or OSA is mild, changes in lifestyle may be all that is needed. Even if you don’t have OSA, these things will almost certainly help that snoring problem. Maintain a healthy weight and get at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days. You should also avoid alcohol, especially near bedtime, and, if you smoke, quit. If these changes are not enough, you may be prescribed a CPAP - a machine that delivers pressurized air through a mask that you wear while sleeping that helps keep the airway open. Although CPAP is currently the most popular treatment for OSA, many people find it uncomfortable and stop using it. It is also bulky for travel and noisy. Oral Appliance Therapy is another possible treatment, especially for those that can’t tolerate the CPAP machine. An oral appliance is a device that looks like a sports guard or bleaching tray
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2015
that fits in your mouth while you sleep. There are several different kinds of oral appliances for snoring and sleep apnea, but all work on the principle of positioning your lower jaw to maximize airflow and to prevent tissue collapse around the airway. Oral appliances have the advantage of portability and are silent, unlike the CPAP. These devices may be used instead of a CPAP or as an alterna-
tive to CPAP when traveling. A dentist trained in oral appliance therapy can help you determine whether an oral appliance would be a safe and appropriate way to treat your snoring or sleep apnea. As a last resort, there are surgical options to treat OSA. There are a number of possible procedures, and each surgery should be tailored to
MONTANA SENIOR NEWS PAGE 13
an individual’s specific area of obstruction. If you opt for surgery, it is vital to find a surgeon with extensive knowledge of sleep apnea. Regardless of the treatment that works for you, it’s important to see your health professional for regular evaluations to be sure that your treatment continues to be effective and comfortable for you. You deserve a good night’s sleep. MSN
Protect Your Kidneys! Control Diabetes And Blood Pressure Diabetes can be a total body experience: It affects your eyes, heart, nerves, and kidneys. If you have diabetes, you should work with your doctor to make sure you receive all the screenings you need to keep your diabetes under control and potential kidney complications at a minimum. If someone you care about has diabetes, encourage him or her to do the same. Screening for chronic kidney disease (CKD) is important because diabetes is the leading cause of CKD. Tests that measure your urine protein and blood creatinine levels can detect early CKD. A blood test assessing your glomerular filtration rate, or GFR, can provide the best measure of your kidney function. Make sure you ask for
these tests if you have diabetes or are at risk for developing CKD. Conditions like high blood pressure can be extremely damaging to the kidneys, so make sure you get regular screening for it. If you do have high blood pressure and need medication, ask your doctor about angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs). These blood pressure medications may have a protective effect on your kidneys. Also, be sure to take your medications as prescribed. Chronic kidney disease affects 26 million American adults and millions more are at an increased risk, particularly among the over 65
While people with diabetes are more likely to develop blinding eye diseases, recent studies have revealed low awareness of the issue among ethnicities at higher risk for diabetes and low uptake of preventive eye exams among affected Medicare beneficiaries. With the findings signaling that many Americans may not be defending themselves against diabetes-related vision loss, the American Academy of Ophthalmology is sharing information about diabetic eye disease and dilated eye exams to encourage those with diabetes to take proactive steps to protect their vision. Although Hispanics and African-Americans are more likely to have diabetes than most other
ethnicities, a recent poll commissioned by the Alliance for Eye and Vision Research has revealed that only 27 and 32 percent (respectively) report to know about diabetic eye disease. In addition, while the Academy recommends that people with diabetes have a dilated eye exam every year, one study recently published in the journal Ophthalmology found that, among Medicare beneficiaries diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, or diabetes – all conditions that require an annual eye exams – three-quarters of those who did not have an exam in five years were those living with diabetes. (Continued on page 15)
group with rates rising along with the incidence of diabetes. The best thing you can do to avoid CKD is to work with your healthcare team. Your goal should be to have good control over your blood sugar, blood pressure, and lipids. Get tested regularly. These preventive measures will go a long way to protecting you from CKD or to slow its progression so you can have many more years of good health. MSN
Diabetes and Eyes: What People Don't Know Could Leave Them Blind
You Can Prevent Falls….. One Step At A Time • Talk to your doctor about recent falls or your concern for falls • Review your medications with your doctor or pharmacist • Get your vision checked • Keep your home safe
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Diabetes and Eyes - continued from page 13 “It’s alarming that so many people with diabetes or at risk for diabetes may be unaware of the damage their condition can do to their eyes and may not be getting exams to check for it,” said Raj K. Maturi, M.D., ophthalmologist and clinical spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology. “Outside of maintaining good blood glucose levels, having an annual dilated eye exam is the best first line defense against vision loss from diabetic eye disease.” While “diabetic eye disease” is often used, people may be unaware that this term encompasses a number of diseases and conditions that can cause blindness if left untreated. These include: • Diabetic Retinopathy affects 28.5 percent of people age 40 and older living with diabetes. It occurs when the small blood vessels in the eye change by swelling, leaking fluid or closing off completely, blocking blood flow from reaching the retina. In its earliest stages, diabetic retinopathy does not have symptoms, but can lead to changes in the eye, such as macular edema, which is the
most common cause of vision loss among people with diabetes. Treatment for diabetic retinopathy and many of its related changes include laser surgery, medical injections, and vitrectomy surgery in which blood and scar tissue caused by abnormal blood vessels is removed. • Cataract occurs when the eye’s lens becomes cloudy, causing vision to become blurry, cloudy, or dim. While this happens in many people as they age, those with diabetes are more likely to develop cataracts than their peers without diabetes. Mild cataracts may be treated with eyeglasses, but once the cataract is advanced, it will require cataract surgery, in which the natural cloudy lens is removed and replaced with an artificial lens implant known as an intraocular lens or IOL. • Glaucoma is a disease that damages the optic nerve and peripheral vision. The damage to the optic nerve is usually caused by elevated pressure in the eye. People with diabetes are also more likely to develop glaucoma, which rarely has any noticeable symptoms in its early stages.
Stop Drinking Calories: Lose 35 Pounds By replacing caloric beverages with non-caloric beverages, the average American could lose 35 pounds a year with no other changes, according to Tim Covell, author of The Simply Fit Diet. Body fat is becoming a national crisis. In the U.S., 74% of men and 64% of women are overweight or obese – almost 70% of the adult population. Eleven percent of American adults have diabetes and 35% have pre-diabetes. For those over age 65, 25.9% have diabetes and an additional 51% have pre-diabetes. Government statistics reveal that the average American adult drinks 400 calories a day in the form of regular soda, energy, sports drinks, alcoholic beverages, milk, 100% fruit juice, and fruit drinks. Caloric beverages constitute 21% of all calories consumed by the average American. But throughout most of man’s history, water was the primary beverage. Fruit juices, wine, and beer are recent inventions – only in the past several thousand years. Coca-Cola arrived on the scene in 1886, Gatorade started in 1965, and energy drinks, the most recent high calorie fad, have only become a significant force in the past decade. When compared to the hundreds of thousands of years that humans have been around, most caloric beverages have existed very briefly.
Scientific studies support this premise. In one study, students were allowed to eat as much pizza as they wanted, accompanied by no beverage, a non-caloric beverage, or a caloric beverage such as milk, soda, or orange juice. The students ate the same amount of food, whether or not they consumed a beverage, and felt just as full, whether or not the beverage had calories. Although the pizza-eating study found that milk acted like soda or juice, other studies find milk the exception to the body ignoring liquid calories. This makes sense, Covell says, we are designed to thrive on human milk, and cows’ milk is a similar substitute. In some studies, milk is the single beverage that the body seems to acknowledge and therefore adjust the consumption of solid food. Even excluding about 64 calories a day consumed as milk, the average American still drinks 336 calories a day. Applying the standard that it takes 3,500 calories to lose a pound, if the average American would replace the non-milk caloric beverages with natural zero-calorie drinks and not replace those drinks with other calories, he could lose 35 pounds a year! Covell suggests this strategy and a host of others in his new book which is available free at TheSimplyFitDiet.com. ISI
Glaucoma can be treated with medication such as prescription eye drops or with surgery, but will result in blindness if left untreated. The Academy recommends that those with type 2 diabetes should get a dilated eye exam at the time of diagnosis and every year following. Those with type 1 diabetes should start receiving annual eye exams five years after their initial diagnosis. Seniors who have not had a recent eye exam or for whom cost is a concern may qualify for EyeCare America, a program of the Foundation of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, that offers eye exams and care at no out-of-pocket cost for eligible seniors age 65 and older. EyeCare America is the largest public service program of its kind in American medicine, and has helped more than 1.8 million people access eye care services. Visit eyecareamerica.org to learn more. ISI
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Center For Asbestos Related Disease In the northwest corner of Montana, in the rural community of Libby, the Center for Asbestos Related Disease (CARD) has emerged as a national center of excellence in addressing healthcare issues associated with Libby amphibole (previously called tremolite) asbestos. The CARD Clinic is a non-profit 501(c)(3) clinic governed by a volunteer community board. CARD operates with the vision of Caring Path-
ways to Treatment. The CARD Clinic is devoted to healthcare, outreach, and research to benefit all people impacted by exposure to Libby amphibole asbestos. For more information on our FREE Asbestos Health Screening Program, please call us toll-free at 855-891-CARD; visit our website at libbyasbestos.org; or stop in at CARD Clinic, 214 East 3rd Street, Libby, MT 59923. MSN
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Stay Warm and Avoid Frostbite with Tips from Dermatologists When the temperature dips below freezing, it’s critical to protect your skin from cold-weather health risks. Frostbite occurs when the skin – and sometimes the tissue beneath the skin – freezes due to prolonged exposure to cold temperatures. Depending on how long and how frozen the tissue, frostbite can result in severe, sometimes permanent, damage. “Frostbite usually affects the face, nose, ears, fingers, and toes, so on bitterly cold days, it’s not enough to just put on a winter coat,” said boardcertified dermatologist Amy J. Derick, MD, FAAD, clinical instructor of dermatology, Northwestern University. “To really protect your skin from dangerously low temperatures, keep an eye on the weather, dress appropriately for outdoor activities, and stay dry.” To prevent frostbite, Dr. Derick recommends the following tips: • Dress in loose, light, comfortable layers. Wearing loose, light layers helps trap warm air. The first layer should be made of a synthetic material that wicks moisture away from your body. The next layer should be insulating. Wool and fleece are good insulators and hold in more body heat than cotton. The top layer should be windproof and waterproof. A down parka and ski
pants can help keep you dry and warm during outdoor activities. • Protect your feet and toes. To protect your feet and toes, wear two pairs of socks. The first pair, next to your skin, should be made of moisture-wicking fabric. Place a pair of wool or wool-blend socks on top of those. Your boots should also provide adequate insulation. They should be waterproof and cover your ankles. Make sure that nothing feels tight, as tight clothing increases the risk of frostbite. • Protect your head. To protect your ears and head, wear a heavy wool or fleece hat. If you are outside on a bitterly cold day, cover your face with a scarf or face mask. This warms the air you breathe and helps prevent frostbite on your nose and face. • Protect your hands. Wear insulated mittens or gloves to help protect your hands from the cold. • Make sure snow cannot get inside of your boots or clothing. Wet clothing increases the risk of developing frostbite. Before heading outdoors, make sure that snow cannot easily get inside your boots or clothing. While outdoors, if you start to sweat, cut back on your activity or
unzip your jacket a bit. • Keep yourself hydrated. Becoming dehydrated also increases the risk of developing frostbite. Even if you are not thirsty, drink at least one glass of water before you head outside, and always drink water or a sports drink before an outdoor workout. In addition, avoid alcohol, as it increases your risk for frostbite. • Recognize the symptoms. In order to detect frostbite early, when it’s most treatable, it’s important to recognize the symptoms. The first signs of frostbite include redness and a stinging, burning, throbbing, or prickling sensation followed by numbness. If this occurs, head indoors immediately. “If you experience symptoms of frostbite, try to gradually bring feeling back into the body,” said Dr. Derick. “Never rub frostbitten skin or submerge your hands or feet directly into hot water – use warm water or a warm washcloth instead. If you do not feel sensation returning to your body, or if the skin begins to turn gray, go to an emergency room immediately.” The Frostbite: Prevention and Treatment video is posted to the Academy website and the Academy’s YouTube channel. MSN
Medical Marijuana Reduces Progression Of Alzheimer’s Provided By Lionheart Caregiving Statistics indicate that Alzheimer’s disease is one of the top-ten leading causes of death among the elderly in the U.S. The symptoms of Alzheimer’s are diminishing intellectual facility and a continuous decline in memory. The underlying cause of this degenerative condition is the formation of sticky amyloid plaques or protein deposits that lead to speech problems, spatial disorientation, severe loss of memory, mood swings, irritability, and severe neuronal damage. It is a progressive and incurable condition that systematically destroys brain cells. During advanced stages, people also experience a loss of cognition and memory. Research conducted at Scripps Research in San Diego demonstrates that marijuana is a neuronal growth promoter and a better bet when compared with a number of drugs currently prescribed that stifle the growth of these nerve cells. The tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) component
of medical marijuana (MMJ) significantly reduces the progression of this disease. The controlled and vigilant use of MMJ holds much promise to help Alzheimer’s patients and their caregivers cope with this disease. Currently, a number of cities in the US are monitoring the distribution of medical cannabis through various dispensaries. Alzheimer’s patients have reported that they felt immensely relieved when they were given optimal doses of MMJ. It proved to be helpful in
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dealing with a number of troublesome symptoms, such as disturbed motor skills, loss of memory, diminished intellect and social skills, and dementia. Scientists believe that MMJ-based drug treatment is far more effective when compared with the current treatment systems in place. While more research is required in this area, it is definitely one of the first drugs with a viable potential to fight this incurable, debilitating disease. THC, the active ingredient in marijuana, works
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by decreasing the production of acetylcholinesterase, a neural enzyme that is known to trigger the formation of these harmful protein deposits in the brain. The enzyme also reduces the levels of acetylcholine, an important and essential neurotransmitter. It is estimated that more than 4.5 million Americans are afflicted with Alzheimer’s and there are only a few FDA-approved pharmaceuticals that help people deal with the symptoms of the disease, but there are none available to block the progression of Alzheimer’s. MSN
Dance! It’s Good For You
Did you dance up a storm on New Year’s Eve? Good for you, says the Association of Mature American Citizens. Keep it up because it’s good for you. British investigators at the University of Southampton found that ballroom dancing helped patients with Parkinson’s disease become more sure-footed after taking up ballroom dancing. The illness is prevalent among seniors and so the researchers concluded that it could help even healthy individuals in old age. “Dancing involves turning and stepping to a rhythmical beat from the music, which can help to improve mobility. The principles behind the dancing – people have to move their feet, turn their bodies and take big steps – were carefully chosen to enhance what clinicians are doing during rehabilitation,” said Professor Ann Ashburn, who headed up the study. The Tango tops the list of dances with benefits, according to other scientists. MSN
Baby Of The New Year
Tradition loses out once again to the vagaries of the 21st Century, laments the Association of Mature American Citizens as more hospitals abandon the custom of announcing the first baby born on New Year’s Day. The Associated Press reports that a growing number of hospitals no longer reveal the first birth of the New Year. An AP dispatch on New Year’s Eve noted that Community Health Systems ordered its 207 hospitals across the nation “to stop publicizing the first baby of the year, citing the potential for abductions and identity theft.” Tomi Galin, a spokeswoman for the company said, “We know the birth of the New Year baby is a joyous and exciting event, but protecting patient safety and privacy is our most important responsibility.” MSN
Another Year Older
George Orwell said happiness can exist only in acceptance and apparently, you can go through a large chunk of your life achieving acceptance, says the Association of Mature American Citizens. In fact, according to David Brooks, who writes about culture and social science, older folks are happier folks and that the happiest people of them all are those between the ages of 82 and 85. In a recent Op-Ed article in the New York Times, Brooks wrote, “I’d rather think that elder happiness is an accomplishment, not a condition that people get better at living through effort, by mastering specific skills. I’d like to think that people get steadily better at handling life’s challenges. In middle age, they are confronted by stressful challenges they can’t control, like having teenage children. But, in old age, they have more control over the challenges they will tackle and they get even better at addressing them.” As the new year gets under way and we consider the fact that we are all another year older, take heart and consider the real possibility that the coming years will, indeed, be among the happiest of our lives. MSN
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You may not be ready to give up your coat and hot cocoa, but spring is just around the corner. What Tina Harboway, Peg Dotson, Sue Johnson a great time for a romance or friendship to blossom. Great Falls So go ahead, pick up that pen, and start writing! 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 Montana Senior News, P.O. Box 3363, 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 presented by Great Falls Animal Shelter Sidekicks in this issue, and also sit Saturday, March 7, 2015 down now and prepare 6–9pm | Elks Lodge (500 1st Ave S, Great Falls) your own ad to run in our next issue. There is no Hear ye! Hear ye! charge for this service, All ye Kings and Queens, Knights and Nobles! and your ad may lead A night of secrets and mystery awaits you. you down the path of true love! Whether it is to see knights jousting or to Responses to perpartake in the ale and entertainment, your sonal ads appearing business is but your own... that is until you in this column may be find yourself in the middle of a murder. submitted at any time. However, to place a perBe careful in attending. Your life will sonal ad in the April/May depend not only on your innocence, but 2015 issue, the deadline your albility to defend it. is March 7, 2015.
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SWF seeking SWM for fun, companionship, romance, and possibly a long-term relationship. 5’3”, 110lbs, in my 50s. I like vegetable gardening, flowers, walking, swimming, traveling, animals, music, restaurants, wine, and laughter. Men 60-75 years of age welcome to respond. Looks don’t matter, but please send a photo so I can recognize
you. I’ll send you one back. Reply MSN, Dept. 31301, c/o Montana Senior News, Box 3363, Great Falls, MT 59403 SWM seeks lonely lady or handicap lady for long-term relationship. Looks are unimportant. Send photo and phone number. I will answer all replies. Reply MSN, Dept. 31302, c/o Montana Senior News, Box 3363, Great Falls, MT 59403 SWM. Don’t smoke, drink, or do drugs. Considered a nice guy by friends. Retired, financially secure, and own my home. I casually know a beautiful, very nice, blonde lady – you! I would like to get to know you better – maybe dinner or coffee – and this ad is directed at you! We are in our 60s-70s and live in the Lincoln area. I contacted you before, but it may not have been a good time. I don’t want to put you on the spot, and hope this will be a way to get together. If you read this and are interested, please reply so that I can contact you. I look forward to hearing from you. Reply MSN, Dept. 31303, c/o Montana Senior News, Box 3363, Great Falls, MT 59403 SF, fun, fit, 59, 5’4”, 125lbs. Florida beach girl, California hippie, mountain west, woman with city smarts, and a country heart. Living active outdoor lifestyle in far NW Montana. Athletically inclined tomboy on the outside, but all woman inside. Eclectic spiritually. Favor public broadcasting. Too many interests to list. Love life and dwell in the joy of being. ISO healthy, active, open-minded, emotionally mature, financially secure gentleman with good dental hygiene in the Missoula Northwest to Idaho/Canadian border area for intermittent companionship initially with the possibility of more in the future... but not interested in a permanent live-in situation. Do not like emotional drama or head games. Please be truly available if responding. Short note to include address and/or phone number for initial contact. No email. Reply MSN, Dept. 31304, c/o Montana Senior News, Box 3363, Great Falls, MT 59403 SWF 69-years-young seeks a friend 70-75 years. Would like to find a western gentleman who is gentle, but can be strong, who likes the simple things in life. Someone who likes moonlight, quiet moments, has a sense of humor, and can make a woman feel special, loved, and needed. Must like animals and is honest in a gentle way. Not being
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2015
embarrassed to show or express feelings in a gentle loving way anytime or place is a big plus to me. Reply MSN, Dept. 31305, c/o Montana Senior News, Box 3363, Great Falls, MT 59403 SWM, 62, non-smoker, light drinker, no drugs. I like outdoors, gardening, hiking, quiet evenings, romantic dinners out, and exploring new places. Looking for an old-fashioned girl who will play out in the garden with me and loves to clean up real pretty for a night or weekend out. Reply MSN, Dept. 31306, c/o Montana Senior News, Box 3363, Great Falls, MT 59403 WWM, 69, 5’6” from Billings area, in good health, blue eyes, aviation nut, NS, likes the outdoors, some travel, home cooking, also I like to eat out a couple times a week. Looking for a lovely lady 65-70 (preferably in Billings area) to be my friend and companion to share the so-called golden years. Reply MSN, Dept. 31307, c/o Montana Senior News, Box 3363, Great Falls, MT 59403 I am a single, retired professional woman, college graduate living in northwest Montana. Interests include outdoor activities, listening to music – from classical to country, exploring Montana parks and historic sites. I am a non-smoker, no drugs, active, and in good health. I would like to meet a responsible, financially secure gentleman with similar interests. If you are interested, please send a letter and photo, and I will respond. Reply MSN, Dept. 31308, c/o Montana Senior News, Box 3363, Great Falls, MT 59403 SWF likes the outdoors and camping, traveling, walks, and fishing when the fish are biting. I’m looking for someone that is nice, not a smoker, drinks occasionally, and no drugs. I’m 5’2” fluffy, 64-years-young and full of life. Reply MSN, Dept. 31309, c/o Montana Senior News, Box 3363, Great Falls, MT 59403
Can’t cook? I can. DWM, 58, seeking SF 5060. Non-Smoker. Good sense of humor. Maybe you could inspire me. I enjoy the outdoors, good conversation, and fun times. Don’t be shy just reply. Reply MSN, Dept. 31310, c/o Montana Senior News, Box 3363, Great Falls, MT 59403 SWM, 75. I live in the Billings area, out of town and in the country. I like animals, rodeos, flea markets and auctions, going out to eat, traveling, a beer now and then, good conversation, western movies, home cooking, and friendship. I am honest and easy going. Reply MSN, Dept. 31311, c/o Montana Senior News, Box 3363, Great Falls, MT 59403 SWM, 59, live in Great Falls, non-smoker, 5’7”, and 175 lbs. Brown hair, blue yes. I like hiking, going for walks, movies, fairs, swimming, exercise, and playing pool. Hope to find a nice lady close to my age that is interested in a new friendship and companionship. If a new friend is what you desire, please respond and I will answer. Reply MSN, Dept. 31312, c/o Montana Senior News, Box 3363, Great Falls, MT 59403 Do you still believe in forever? That real love is not just a feeling or an experiment, but rather a choice accompanied by commitment? SWF, 5’5”, blonde, youthful, 60s, ND/NS, soft and cuddly, attractive, faithful, fun, outspoken, opinionated, and tenderhearted. Own home in Hamilton and can’t relocate. Have disability so sleep late, but enjoy camping, singing, dancing, classic rock, my 12step meetings, movies, plays, church, cards, TV, chivalry, family, laughter, and mutual TLC. ISO slim to med build, honest, affectionate, stable, dependable, considerate man who doesn’t drink, drug, smoke, or gamble, for a special friend, companion, possible life mate. Age, height, and race not important, but he must be a conservative and truly love Jesus. Photo and address with letter please. Reply MSN, Dept. 31313, c/o Montana Senior News, Box 3363, Great Falls, MT 59403 MSN
MONTANA SENIOR NEWS PAGE 21
PAGE 22 MONTANA SENIOR NEWS
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2015
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By Lisa M. Petsche Heart disease is the leading cause of death for adults in the U.S.A., and coronary artery disease (CAD), also known as arteriosclerosis, is the most common type – caused by accumulation in the coronary arteries of fatty deposits called plaques. This results in narrowing within the arteries, restricting blood flow to the heart. Typically, CAD progresses over many years and may go undetected until a crisis occurs. Symptoms can include angina (usually brought on by physical exertion or emotional stress), shortness of breath, and if a coronary artery becomes completely blocked, a heart attack. A diagnosis of heart disease is unsettling at best and oftentimes frightening. It launches the diagnosed person and their loved ones into a new world of medical information, jargon, and medical procedures. At least initially, consultations, tests, and treatments may take center stage. And the possibility of a heart attack and the need for major surgery is always lurking in the shadows. Coping Advice If someone close to you has been diagnosed with CAD, it is important to understand that your loved one may initially be in denial about the severity of his or her health condition. This is a natural part of the grieving process when faced with a significant life change that’s involuntary and anxiety provoking. Allow them plenty of time to adjust to their diagnosis and recommended lifestyle changes. Ask how they wish to be treated, and keep communication lines open. Learn as much as possible about the disease, its management, and educate family and friends. The local chapter of the American Heart Association is a good source of information, or visit www. heart.org. Focus on controllable risk factors. Commit to making lifestyle changes together, keeping in mind it takes about 30 days to develop a new habit. Taking some
control will help you both feel less vulnerable. Encourage your loved one to find an outlet for expressing their thoughts and feelings – perhaps talking with a friend, keeping a journal, or joining a support group. And follow this advice yourself. If your loved one continually feels sad, angry, overwhelmed or unmotivated, arrange an appointment with their primary physician and accompany them. They may have a clinical depression, which is treatable. Practical Tips For Daily Living Accompany your loved one to medical appointments. In addition to being a supportive presence, you can take notes. You may also have questions that didn’t occur to your loved one. Assist your loved one in following the prescribed treatment plan, which may include medication, smoking cessation, blood pressure monitoring, diet changes, exercise, rest, stress management techniques, and regular checkups. For example, you might buy a dosette (compartmentalized pillbox) to make it easier to manage their medications, and collect and experiment with heart-healthy recipes. Assist your loved one in keeping an up-todate medication list, including a copy for their wallet. Encourage them to consider crisis options such as medical alert jewelry and, if they live alone, a personal emergency response system for summoning help. Assist in setting up a record-keeping system to organize their health information. Ready-made binders with customized tabs can be found in bookstores. If your loved one has a fast-paced lifestyle, encourage them to re-evaluate their priorities, streamline activities, and make time to enjoy life’s simpler pleasures. It’s also a good idea to set aside quiet time each day, to nurture their spirituality, and help keep them grounded. If you are concerned about the impact of certain household chores on your loved one’s health, consult with their doctor. Arrange help for high-exertion tasks such as moving furniture or shoveling snow. Managing Stress Cultivate a healthy sense of humor by reading the comics, watching a TV sitcom now and then, or renting funny movies together.
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2015
Find something enjoyable to do together, such as volunteering or engaging in a hobby. Revive a former pastime or try something new. Refrain from frequent lifestyle reminders that your loved one may perceive as nagging. Also refrain from admonishing them for unhealthy behaviors. You can’t force your loved one to make lifestyle changes and trying to do so will only create conflict. Express concerns gently, and ask if and how you can be of help. It’s important to avoid judgment. Let the person know you’re concerned about their health because you want to enjoy their company as long as possible. One of the best things you can do is set a good example of healthy living. After all, if you live in the same household, you too may be vulnerable to heart disease from common bad habits related to diet and
MONTANA SENIOR NEWS PAGE 23
exercise. Remind your loved one that even modest lifestyle changes can make a difference. Support them in taking small steps and building on their success. Keep in mind that however unwelcome it may be, the diagnosis of heart disease presents opportunities for a healthier lifestyle and for personal growth. Ultimately, it can lead to a more fulfilling life for your loved one and, by extension, for you. Lisa M. Petsche is a social worker and a freelance writer specializing in boomer and senior health matters. She has personal and professional experience with elder care. MSN
Nearly Half of Family Caregivers Spend Over $5,000 per Year on Caregiving
Almost half (46%) of family caregivers spend more than $5,000 per year on caregiving expenses, according to a new Caring.com report. A family caregiver is defined as someone who takes care of a family member or friend, but is unpaid for his/ her services. Their caregiving expenses include out-of-pocket costs for medications, medical bills, in-home care, nursing homes, and more. Of the 46% of family caregivers that spend more than $5,000 annually: • 16% spend from $5,000 to $9,999 • 11% spend from $10,000 to $19,999 • 7% spend $20,000 to $29,999 • 5% spend $30,000 to $49,999 • 7% spend $50,000 or more each year. Thirty-two percent of family caregivers spend less than $5,000 per year, and 21% do not know how much they spend on caregiving each year. “Caregiving can be a startlingly expensive endeavor that most people aren’t financially prepared for,” said Caring.com CEO Andy Cohen. “But yet only three in 10 caregivers have spoken to their loved ones about how to pay for care. Having an open and honest conversation about finances is a sensitive, but necessary discussion to have.” Caregiving not only has an effect on finances, but it can also affect current employment and future retirement plans, too. One-third of family caregivers (33%) spend more than 30 hours per week on caregiving, making it almost the equivalent of a
full-time job. Half of caregivers have made changes • 20% of people being cared for live in an to their work schedule to accommodate caregiving, assisted-living center, nursing home, or other livwhile 30% often arrived late or left early and 17% ing community. missed a significant amount of work. More information about the survey results “Family caregivers, especially baby boomers, and resources to support family caregivers is run the risk of derailing their retirement plans if they available at caring.com/research/senior-care-costdon’t prepare for the costs associated with caregiv- index-2014. MSN ing,” said Cohen. “Almost half of caregivers spend $25,000 on caregiving in just five years – that’s Independent & Assisted Living Memory Care a significant chunk of money that could delay retirement by a couple of years.” Additional Findings: • For 43% of family caregivers, deciding on a senior care or senior housing option took only Discover a lifestyle of one month. But for 21% comfort, safety & loving community of caregivers, the decision process took six months or more. $15 Community Fee • 60% of caregivers say their caregiving in ‘15 $15 Birthday Month’s Rent duties have a negative (if you take financial possession by February 15th) effect on their job. Suites/Patio Homes up to 1215 sf • 54% of caregivers are caring for a parent or spouse/significant other.
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FEBRUARY/MARCH 2015
Fall Prevention A Matter Of Survival Provided by Helping Hands Home Health One of every three Americans over the age of 65 falls each year. At least half of them will fall again. Falls are the leading cause of injury and death among older adults and cause more than eight out of every ten fractures among older people. Although any older person is at risk of falling, the following circumstances will increase that risk. The person has fallen before. After people fall, they may not move around as much as before because they are afraid of falling again. This can lead to stiffness and poor coordination. Because they are fearful of falling again, they may also make jerky movements instead of walking smoothly. The person uses an assistive device. It would seem people who use assistive devices for balance and support would not be as likely to fall. However, many people do not use them properly. They may have bought them from a pharmacy or borrowed them from a neighbor and were never taught how to use them or had them properly fitted, which actually increases the risk of falls. The person has a chronic illness. People with a joint disease (such as arthritis) are at greater risk of falling. Also, patients with strokes, lung disease such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or heart disease with conges-
tive heart failure (CHF) are much more likely to fall. Having multiple chronic illness increases the risk even more. The person is taking certain medications or many different medications. Many medications have side effects that cause problems with balance, unsteadiness, or dizziness. Some of these are medications for hypertension, diabetes, CHF, heart disease, depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbance. These medications, especially when taken in combination, increase the risk of falling. The patient has urinary urgency or incontinence. Many people fall because they are trying to get to the bathroom quickly. Some fall because they are trying to get out of a wet bed. Others may fall trying to change soiled clothing. The person wears only socks or improper shoes. Often people fall because their footwear is slippery. Some older people wear socks to bed and forget to put on shoes when they get up. Or they wear bedroom slippers with slick soles. All of these contribute to falling. Hazards in the home increase the risk of falls. More than half of the people who fall will fall in their own homes. Often this occurs while reaching for an object or while attempting to transfer. Many falls could be prevented by simple measures to make the home safer. Problems areas include the following: • Floors – cluttered furniture, loose throw rugs, objects on the floor, and even pets. • Lighting – inadequate lighting in any area, especially near stairs, bedrooms, or bathrooms. • Bathroom – Toilet seat too low, slippery bathtub, no grab bars, and no bath chair or bench. • Stairs – clutter, broken or uneven steps, loose handrails, torn carpet, and light switch out of reach. • Bedroom – bed difficult to get into or out of, bedside lamp hard to reach, and no nightlights. • Kitchen – poor placement of items, shiny floors, using a chair as a step stool, and spills not cleaned up. If you are concerned about falling, or have an elderly family member who is a fall risk, please contact their health care professional for additional support. MSN
Big, Bigger, Biggest Submitted by Keith Moyer, Superior The guy from Texas was bragging about how large his cattle ranch was, saying, “It takes all day to ride out to the west fence, two days to reach the south fence, another day to get to my east fence, and two more days to get home.” The Montanan, chewing calmly on a piece of straw, drawled, “Yeah, I had a horse like that once.” MSN
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MONTANA SENIOR NEWS PAGE 25
Caregivers, Here’s How To Thrive In The New Year
By Lisa M. Petsche Informal caregivers provide practical assistance and enhance the quality of life for medically frail older people who might otherwise require placement in a long-term care facility. Typically, they are spouses or adult children, many seniors themselves. Their role involves physical, psychological, emotional, and financial demands. It is a heavy load, exacerbated by the limited availability of community support services. A common phenomenon is caregiver burnout due to the physical toll and emotional strain of caring for an ill relative. If you are a caregiver, consider these strategies for not only surviving, but also thriving during the year ahead. Reduce your stress Learn as much as possible about your relative’s illness and its management, and educate family and friends to help them understand. Knowing what to expect and how to deal with challenges can go a long way to reduce anxiety and foster a sense of control. Accept realities you can’t change and focus instead on those you can influence. Pick your battles; don’t make a major issue out of every concern. Use positive self-talk. Emphasize phrases such as “I can,” “I will,” and “I choose.” Practice relaxation techniques, starting with deep breathing. Nurture your spirit. Do things that bring inner peace, such as meditating, praying, reading something uplifting, journaling, or listening to music. Create a relaxation room or corner in your home – a tranquil spot you can retreat to. Develop a calming ritual to help you unwind at the end of the day. Avoid watching the news before going to bed. Make healthy lifestyle choices: eat nutritious meals, get adequate rest, exercise, and see your primary physician regularly. Seek ways to streamline your life. Set priorities
HAPPY
and don’t waste time or energy on unimportant things. Simplify necessary tasks, letting go of the need for perfection. If finances permit, hire a housecleaning service or a personal support worker or companion for your relative to free up some of your time and energy. Don’t keep problems to yourself – seek support from family members, friends or a counselor. Join a community caregiver support group concurrent care) or an online group if it’s hard to get out. Accept offers of help, and ask other family members to share the load. Be specific about the kind of help you need. Also find out about services in your community that may be of help now or in the future. Find out about funding sources that may assist with the cost of prescriptions, medical equipment, transportation to appointments, home health services, and community programs. Consult the non-profit association related to your relative’s disease. Take advantage of respite services in your community such as day-care programs and facilities that offer temporary residential care. Inquire at your local office on aging. Increase your joy Stay connected to people who care through visits, phone calls, e-mail, or letters. Cultivate a healthy sense of humor. Read the comics, watch a TV sitcom now, or rent funny movies. Don’t take yourself or others too seriously. Do something you enjoy every day, perhaps calling a friend, savoring a cup of tea, reading the newspaper, or engaging in a hobby – perhaps revive a former pastime or try something new. Make it a priority, even if all you can manage is 15 minutes at a time. Put together a pamper kit of items that give you a lift – for example, a favorite magazine or CD, scented candles, fragrant shower gel or body lotion, a face mask, foot balm, nail polish, or gourmet coffee or tea – and delve into it when you find
your spirits drooping – or better yet, on a regular, preventive basis. Bring a bit of nature into your home: get a plant to nurture or buy fresh flowers every month. Do something nice for someone who is going through a difficult time. It will bring joy to both of you. Create little things to look forward to: visiting with a friend, calling a long-distance loved one,
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PAGE 26 MONTANA SENIOR NEWS
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watching a favorite movie, ordering takeout food, buying a book you’ve been wanting to read, or getting something new to wear. Plan a special outing with or without your relative – to a restaurant or perhaps a cultural or sporting event. Focus on the good things in your life, such as supportive relationships, and seek beauty and tranquility through appreciation of art and nature. Learn to live in the moment, enjoying life’s simpler pleasures. If you think looking out for your own needs is selfish, remember that you can only take good care of your relative if you take good care of yourself. Lisa M. Petsche is a clinical social worker and freelance writer specializing in adult care issues. MSN
What Puts The Temperature In Thermoregulation?
By Susan Frances Bonner RN BSN Temperature affects all life on earth. Cold-blooded dinosaurs died because of dramatic temperature changes. Warm-blooded mammals adapted to earth’s varied and changing temperatures. But what regulates the human body temperature? And how important is it to our well-being? Simply put, temperature is the measurement of the kinetic energy of the particles in a particular sample of matter expressed in degrees on a standard scale. Normal human body temperature is 98.6F (37.0C). The human body maintains its core internal temperature through mechanisms of thermoregulation. The state of having an even internal temperature is called homeostasis, which is the goal of our body’s thermoregulation. The body is constantly monitoring internal changes, the effects of external conditions, and adapting to them. The hypothalmus is the portion of the brain responsible for maintaining body temperature. It issues instructions to your muscles, organs, glands, and nervous system when it senses your core internal temperature is becoming too low or too high. When your temperature increases, your body activates a system to promote heat loss that helps return body temperature normal. This process has three steps. Sensors in your central nervous system (CNS) send messages to your hypothalamus that your internal temperature is increasing or decreasing. Your hypothalamus then activates any of several mechanisms to lower or raise your temperature as appropriate. Sweating is one of the first methods your body will use to lower your temperature, because sweat cools your skin as it evaporates and helps lower your internal temperature. Your hypothalmus may also instruct the capillaries under the surface of your skin to dilate, which increases blood flow at the skin surface and releases heat through radiation. If your body is too cool, your muscles, organs, and brain can produce heat to offset a sinking internal temperature. Muscles are especially effective at this process called thermogenesis. They can produce large quantities of heat quickly by shivering for example. Temperature regulation is very important to our well being, especially if you have a chronic disease. Studies show that older people and people with chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia can be more sensitive to temperature changes and may complain of being too cold, too hot, or alternately too hot or cold. Unfortunately, there is no treatment for temperature sensitivity except to try to keep them as warm or cool as possible. For the rest of us, temperature control is automatic and works without thought or effort. MSN
Hepatitis C: Older Americans Are At Risk
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By Ron Pollack, Executive Director, Families USA Hepatitis C is a disease that is caused by a virus that affects the liver. Even though the disease often doesn’t produce symptoms, it can seriously damage the liver and can be fatal. An estimated 3.2 million Americans have Hepatitis C. Older people are more likely to have been exposed to Hepatitis C, but many older Americans are not aware that they need to be tested for it. A December 2013 report found that Hepatitis C infections are concentrated in the Baby Boomer generation (the report is available online at bit. ly/TTsXih). In another major study of people with the virus, 75 percent of the patients were born between 1945 and 1964. What is Hepatitis C? Hepatitis C is a con-
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tagious liver disease that results from infection with the Hepatitis C virus, which is spread through contact with the blood of an infected person. Hepatitis C ranges in severity from a mild illness that lasts a few weeks (referred to as an “acute” infection) to a serious, lifelong illness that can destroy the liver (referred to as a “chronic” infection). Most people with Hepatitis C do not have any immediate symptoms. However, 75 to 85 percent of people who are infected eventually develop a chronic infection. Chronic Hepatitis C is a serious disease that can result in long-term health problems, including liver damage, liver failure, liver cancer, and even death. It is the leading cause of cirrhosis of the liver (liver scarring) and liver cancer and is the most common reason for liver transplants in the United States. Approximately 15,000 people die every year from Hepatitis C-related liver disease. What are the symptoms of chronic Hepatitis C? Most people with chronic Hepatitis C do not have any symptoms, and they may not have symptoms until years later when they develop liver problems. In people with no symptoms, Hepatitis C is often detected during routine blood tests to measure liver function. Infected people who do develop symptoms may experience the following: fatigue, joint pain, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, fever, dark urine, light-colored stools, or yellowish eyes and skin (called jaundice). Can a person spread Hepatitis C without having symptoms? Yes. Most people who are infected with Hepatitis C do not know they are infected because they do not look or feel sick. An infected person with no symptoms can spread the virus to others. Any activity that exchanges blood between two people can put a person at risk. Before 1992, Hepatitis C was commonly spread through blood transfusions and organ transplants. Widespread screening of the U.S. blood supply for
Hepatitis C began in 1992. Should I be tested for Hepatitis C? Both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Preventive Services Task Force recommend screening for the Hepatitis C virus for people born between 1945 and 1964. Talk to your doctor about being tested for Hepatitis C if any of these apply to you: • You were born between 1945 and 1964. • You were treated for a blood-clotting problem before 1987. • You received a blood transfusion or organ transplant before July 1992. • You are on long-term hemodialysis treatment. • You have abnormal liver tests or liver disease. • You work in health care or public safety and were exposed to blood through a needle stick or other sharp object injury. • You have HIV. • You engaged in sex that could have caused bleeding. • You are a current or former injection drug user, even if you injected only one time or many years ago. Can Hepatitis C be treated successfully? Yes. In about 25 percent of people, an acute infection clears up on its own without treatment. However, if acute hepatitis C is diagnosed, treatment reduces the risk that it will become a chronic infection. There are several medications that treat chronic Hepatitis C, including new treatments that appear to be more effective and have fewer side effects than previous options. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) keeps a list of approved treatments online at fda.gov/ForConsumers/ByAudience/ForPatientAdvocates/ucm151494.htm. However, treatment can be expensive. Clinical trials of new drug treatments may also be available. Hepatitis C and the Affordable Care Act Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, hundreds of
MONTANA SENIOR NEWS PAGE 27
thousands of people with Hepatitis C have new access to treatment. • All insurance must provide free screening for Hepatitis C for anyone born between 1945 and 1964. • People with Hepatitis C cannot be turned down for insurance or discriminated against by an insurance company. • Limits on out-of-pocket costs will make expensive treatment more affordable. MSN
Kids Thoughts on Dating, Marriage… 1. How do you decide whom to marry? You got to find somebody who likes the same stuff. Like, if you like sports, she should like it that you like sports, and she should keep the chips and dip coming. – Alan, age 10. No person really decides before they grow up whom they’re going to marry. God decides it all, way before, and you get to find out later who you’re stuck with. – Kristen, age 10. 2. What is the right age to get married? Twenty-three is the best age because you know the person FOREVER by then. – Camille, age 10. 3. How can a stranger tell if two people are married? You might have to guess, based on whether they seem to be yelling at the same kids. – Derrick, age 8. 4. What do you think your mom and dad have in common? Both don’t want any more kids. – Lori, age 8. 5. What do most people do on a date? Dates are for having fun, and people should use them to get to know each other. Even boys have something to say if you listen long enough. – Lynnette, age 8. On the first date, they just tell each other lies and that usually gets them interested enough to go for a second date. – Martin, age 10. MSN
Aging has enough difficulties. Getting the care you need shouldn’t be one of them. Highgate Senior Living offers full care for all, no matter what your age or ailment. Our team of compassionate professionals can handle almost anything, including complex medical issues and post-acute hospital care. In fact, we specialize in services normally provided in skilled nursing, such as diabetic care and oxygen management, injectable medications, wound care, feeding tubes, catheter monitoring, two-person transfers, and hospice. Just call any of our three Assisted Living/Memory Care communities in Montana, and we’ll make sure your move into Highgate is one of the easiest things in your life right now. Highgate at Billings 406-651-4833
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Powerful Parable Author Unknown A wealthy man and his son loved to collect rare works of art. They had everything in their collection, from Picasso to Raphael. They would often sit together and admire the beauty of these masterpieces. When the Vietnam conflict broke out, the son went to war. He was very courageous and died in battle while rescuing another soldier. The father was notified and grieved deeply for his only son. About a month later, just before Christmas, there was a knock at the door. A young man stood at the door with a large package in his hands. He said, “Sir, you don’t know me, but I am the soldier for whom your son gave his life. He saved many lives that day, and he was carrying me to safety when a bullet struck him in the heart and he died instantly. He often talked about you, and your love for art.” The young man held out a package. “I know this isn’t much. I’m not really a great artist, but I think your son would have wanted you to have this.” The father opened the package. It was a portrait of his son, painted by the young man. He stared in awe at the way the soldier had captured the personality of his son in the painting. The father was so drawn to the eyes that his own eyes welled up with tears. He thanked the young man and offered to pay him for the picture. “Oh, no sir, I could never repay what your son did for me. It’s a gift.” The father hung the portrait over his mantle. Every time visitors came to his home he took them to see the portrait of his son before he showed them any of the other great works he had collected. The man died a few months later. There was to be a great auction of his paintings. Many influential people gathered, excited over seeing the great paintings and having an opportunity to purchase one for their collection.
On the platform sat the painting of the son. The auctioneer pounded his gavel. “We will start the bidding with this picture of the son. Who will bid for this picture?” There was silence. Then a voice in the back of the room shouted, “We want to see the famous paintings. Skip this one.” But the auctioneer persisted. “Will somebody bid for this painting? Who will start the bidding? $100... $200?” Another voice angrily said, “We didn’t come to see this painting. We came to see the Van Gogh’s, the Rembrandts. Get on with the Real bids!” But the auctioneer continued, “The son! The son! Who’ll take the son?” Finally, a voice came from the very back of the room. It was the long-time gardener of the man and his son. “I’ll give $10 for the painting” Being a poor man, it was all he could afford. “We have $10, who will bid $20?” “Give it to him for $10. Let’s see the masters,” someone shouted. The crowd was becoming angry. They didn’t want the picture of the son. They wanted the more worthy investments for their collections. The auctioneer pounded the gavel, “Going once, twice, sold for $10.” A man sitting on the second row shouted, “Now let’s get on with the collection!” The auctioneer laid down his gavel, “I’m sorry; the auction is over.” “What about the paintings?” several in the crowd murmured. “I’m sorry. When I was called to conduct this auction, I was told of a secret stipulation in the will. I was not allowed to reveal that stipulation until this time. Only the painting of the son would be auctioned. Whoever bought that painting would inherit the entire estate, including the paintings. The man who took the son gets everything.” MSN
Union Gospel Mission of Missoula Celebrates New Women & Children’s Shelter
In the rural countryside, people like Katherine and her two young children find peace and hope for a stable home at the Union Gospel Mission (UGM) Women & Children’s Shelter – in this case for the first time in four years. Katherine’s family came first to the UGM of Missoula’s Day Center at 506-B Toole Avenue and received emergency support including hot meals, food boxes, clothing, and shelter from harsh weather. For those wanting personal or spiritual growth, resource networking, mentorship, and opportunities for workforce reentry are available. The UGM Thrift Boutique at 400 W. Main Street supports all Mission activities and offers an upscale
shopping experience, training opportunities, and is a donation distribution site for nonfood items. A dedicated prayer room and prayer wall offer peaceful sanctuary for city dwellers and visitors from the nearby hospital. UGM of Missoula is a nonprofit Christian charity serving the homeless and needy in the Missoula area. We need your gift of financial support, time, or prayer to help those in poverty begin living with hope. Please call 406-542-5240, write to P.O. Box 16833, Missoula, MT 59808-6833, or visit ugmofmissoula.org. You make a difference, and we can’t thank you enough! MSN
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St. Patrick’s Day By Bernice Karnop May your troubles be less And your blessings be more And nothing but happiness Come through your door. – Old Irish Blessing The Irish are credited with a number of “blessings” that bring a smile and make the recipient feel blessed, indeed. They embody optimism, hope, and good humor. They open the door to people of all nations to be at least a little bit Irish on St. Patrick’s Day. Patrick himself was not born Irish. He was born in Roman Britain and taken to Ireland as a slave after being kidnapped at age 16. He was not happy to be in Ireland that first time. He escaped, but later returned, sensing God’s call to take Christianity to the Emerald Isle. He’s best remembered for explaining the Trinity using the common shamrock to show how one God was evidenced in the three persons of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. According to tradition, Patrick remained in Ireland until his death on March 17, 461. In Ireland, St. Patrick’s Day was traditionally a religious holiday, a day when pubs were closed by law. Since the country began to see St. Patrick’s Day as a way to promote tourism, now a million visitors take part in the St. Patrick’s festival in Dublin. There were Irish in America before the Potato Famine of the 1840s, but they were largely middle class and Protestant. A million men, women, and children died of starvation during the famine, and a million more came to America. These immigrants were poor, uneducated, and
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Catholic – persona non grata in the new land. They had trouble even getting menial jobs. Even in Butte, America, they were shut out by signs saying, “Irish need not apply.” It took years for them to find acceptance, but eventually the “green machine” was recognized as a voting block that could change the outcome of an election. Harry Truman’s presence at the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in New York City in 1948 was celebrated as a milestone of acceptance for the Irish people. Whether or not they were accepted by others, Irish patriotism and pride flourished in America. The first St. Patrick’s Day parade took place, not in Ireland, but in New York City. On March 17, 1762, Irish soldiers serving in the English military marched through the streets playing Irish music and drawing fellow compatriots. Today the St. Patrick’s Day parade in New York City is one of the largest and oldest parades in the U.S. Dozens of other U.S. cities also have St. Patrick’s Day parades, including Boston, Chicago, Philadelphia, and Savannah. Butte, which once looked down on the Irish, now holds its proudest celebrations of that culture. On St. Patrick’s Day the whole city gets into the wearin’ o’ the green right down to green hair and Irish socks. There’s plenty of corned beef and cabbage, potato soup, Irish soda bread, and more than enough of the ever popular green beer. Everyone, it seems celebrates St. Patrick’s Day today and there’s no counting the ways to make it fun. Moms and grandma’s trick the kids by serving green mashed potatoes and green milk. Wiley leprechauns are blamed for switching the bags in the cereal boxes and leaving little barefoot tracks and magic green glitter around the house. Sometimes the naughty little people put green dye in the toilet tank so the water flushes green. Some plan treasure hunts for Leprechaun gold. The movie Darby O’Gill and the Little People will instruct children just how tricky these creatures are and how difficult it is to get their gold. Grandchildren also may take a trip to the public library to check out a stack of St. Patrick’s Day books. However you choose to remember the day, may the luck o’ the Irish be with you. MSN
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2015
Whose Turn Is It?
Submitted by Julie Brantley Paddy was in New York City and patiently waiting and watching the traffic cop on a busy street crossing. The cop stopped the flow of traffic and shouted, “Okay, pedestrians.” And then he allowed the traffic to pass. He had done this several times, and Paddy still stood on the sidewalk. After the cop had shouted, “Pedestrians!” for the tenth time, Paddy went over to him and said, “Is it not about time ye let the Catholics across?” MSN
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Music Fills The World Of Mike And Deb Rosbarsky Article & Photo By Gail Jokerst “All we need is music, sweet music, there’ll be music everywhere.” That line from the Motown 60s-era hit Dancing in the Streets, aptly describes the life of Mike and Deb Rosbarsky. Without doubt, music fills their world. Get them talking about their favorite topic and energy bursts into every corner of the conversation. “If there ever will be peace in the world, it will be through music. It touches everyone’s heart, soul, and brain,” says Deb. “Hopefully it will bring them all together.” “I think music is the voice of the soul. It’s our language because we’re both so involved with it. Making music is as important as anything else in my life,” adds Mike, who proposed to Deb 19 years ago. “It’s a part of who we are – a part of every day that’s as integral to us as eating and breathing.” If the twosome isn’t playing music at home, Mike and Deb are certainly listening to it. A glance at the Rosbarskys’ voluminous CD library proves that point. Yo u s e e e v e r y t h i n g from Janis Joplin and the Beatles to Bach and Beethoven with a whole lot of Debussy and Dave Brubeck going on. Mike and Deb both grew up in Montana with parents who adored mu-
sic and they credit their upbringing with forging their future. Their parents sang, played various instruments, brought them to hear performances, and encouraged them to take lessons. “I’ve been eternally grateful they forced me to stay with the piano lessons,” recalls Mike, who quickly became adept at improvising tunes and identifying the unique sound of every musical instrument he heard. Between them, Deb and Mike have participated in the Missoula-area music scene for some 50 years. Currently, Mike sings with the Missoula Symphony Chorale and the Missoula Community Choir. In addition, he and Deb play in the Missoula City Band and the Missoula Community Band. Deb’s talents include the clarinet, various saxophones, flute, and euphonium. Mike also plays the euphonium in addition to piano. Although adept at all those instruments, clearly the euphonium, which resembles a small tuba, is the favorite child in their musical household. “The sound of a tuba-euphonium ensemble is amazingly beautiful. Kind of like hearing a topnotch professional men’s choir,” says Mike. To the untrained ear, the two instruments sound alike. However, to the Rosbarskys, the differences are distinct yet subtle. As Deb points out, “You can tell they’re related but you know they’re different. It’s like comparing beefsteak and grape tomatoes.” “The tuba has a dark warm sound. The euphonium has a richer mellower sound. You can play anything on them since they’re both versatile,” explains Mike. “They have different ranges but their flavors are similar.” Coincidentally, neither Deb nor Mike intended to teach music but both ended up as band and music instructors in Missoula-area public schools. Many a parent has them to thank for instilling a love of music in their children. “I was surprised I got paid to teach; it was so much fun,” recalls Mike, who was a longtime fixture at Hellgate Elementary School. Affectionately known as Rosy by just about every student who ever sat in one of his classes, Mike also arranges and composes scores. “The first time I had a major piece performed, it felt like I was standing in front of the audience with no clothes on,” he confesses. “It amazes me that I can compose music that brings tears to people’s eyes by my conveying an emotion with sound. But I have no idea why I compose. If I don’t, I just get uncomfortable.” “Actually, he gets cranky,” clarifies Deb, who
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never intended to become a music instructor after college graduation. As she tells it, a music career was decided for her through circumstance. “I fought it tooth and nail. But I kept turning around and being involved with music.” She ended up teaching music to every grade in the St. Ignatius and Charlo school systems. And as it turned out, regrets were the last thing Deb felt about her career in the classroom. “I liked watching the students’ successes happen; the energy they had then was so positive. First it was getting a sound out of the instrument that others don’t mind hearing. Then it was learning to read music and finally performing in a group,” says Deb. “I loved hooking the kids to play things they thought they wouldn’t like, such as jazz. The most important thing I taught them, though, was that music is fun. It’s work – nothing comes
easily that’s really good – but it’s also dignified play.” Mike heartily concurs. “It’s so satisfying to teach kids how to play an instrument and to express themselves. I enjoyed watching them grow and learn and become good band members. They taught me how much you can trust kids to do by themselves.” When it comes to giving advice to aspiring musicians, they share a similar approach. “Find a good mentor to inspire you – not necessarily someone who plays the same instrument but who feels the passion,” says Deb. “Mentors put an arm around you when times are tough. Instructors don’t,” adds Mike. “They help you see that you aren’t drowning.” As far as Deb and Mike are concerned, there could not be a better place in the state for people
Keeping Alive A Neighborhood Tradition: The Buttercup Market And Café Article & Photo By Gail Jokerst Molly Galusha is indisputably a woman who honors history. Chat with her over a cup of tea at her Buttercup Market and Café, and you will discover for yourself just how dedicated she is to preserving her Montana heritage. Take the name of her café-market, for instance. While fans of the film, The Princess Bride, will recognize the name Buttercup as one of the movie’s lead characters, it also happens to be the unusual name of Molly’s grandmother. Jaundiced at birth – hence the moniker – Buttercup was born on a Helena Valley farm in the Montana Territory a year before statehood. Equally adept at storytelling, preserving garden bounty, or feeding a crew of hired men, Buttercup significantly influenced Molly during her formative years. Naming the business after her was one apropos way Molly could pay tribute to her role-model grandmother. “Buttercup was a major force in my life for values. She was joyful, optimistic, practical, and never wasted anything,” recounts Molly. “She was a locavore by necessity not fashion. Plus she was a phenomenal cook. She learned from the wives of senators and the county extension service and taught my sisters and me to cook. We understood through her example that serving healthy local food was a way of being happy and grateful together.” When chili, tomato soup, biscuits, or sourcream chocolate cookies appear on the café menu, a bit of Buttercup’s legacy lives. Relying as
much as possible on local ingredients for cooking and baking is another family legacy Molly embodies at her cafe. “We use Montana oil, butter, flour, eggs, and milk in our recipes. Everything we serve in the café is made from scratch. If you have good ingredients,” explains Molly, “you can’t go wrong as long as you don’t try to do too much with them. The best way to serve and nurture others is to offer good healthy food. That’s our goal; a very simple mission.” As you might expect, vegetarians, vegans, and those following glutenfree diets find some tempting choices here. But so do carnivores for that matter. To satisfy her customers’ tastes, M o l l y stocks the café pantry and grocery-store shelves with items from 45 regional and local Montana food producers. Aside from regional edibles, the store also
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wanting to learn to play music, listen to it, or jam together. Among the Garden City’s many concerts, restaurants, and bars opportunities abound. And in the summer, when bands and ensembles take to the outdoors, the Rosbarskys are happy to report that you will also see dancing in the streets. MSN
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carries handcrafted pottery, soap, and cards along with books penned by Montanans. And since the arts are important to Molly, she provides gallery space on the walls so area painters and photographers can display and sell their creations. “Although my aunt was Archie Bray’s daughter, the people in my family are not artists,” confesses Molly, whose great-grandfather was a freight operator between Fort Benton and Virginia City. “But we do actively support the arts however we can.” Anyone familiar with the Helen Avenue block near the university where the café-market sits will likely recognize the structure Molly chose to house her business. For over 25 years, it was home to Freddy’s Feed and Read, a Missoula institution beloved by Molly and scores of other Missoulians. Known for its welcoming atmosphere along with its roster of Big Sky authored books, organic groceries, and deli-style fare, Freddy’s was sorely missed after its doors closed. “Several businesses moved in after Freddy’s but failed. I live three blocks’ away and thought I can do WOMEN’S VOICES better than they did. I may not do more than break even but I’m not going to fail,” We are all affected by toxic chemicals. recalls Molly, who felt Now is our time to do something about it. compelled to carry on this neighborhood tradition. “I have always We believe in healthy legacies loved this building. It for our families, our children, and our future generations. was built 100 years ago as a market and a To learn more about our work family lived on the top and joining the Legacy Circle, floor. From the beginvisit www.womensvoices.org, ning, it has been an or contact: important business hub for the university.” Erin Switalski Executive Director During and since (406) 543.3747 start-up, Molly has
Legacy Circle
erins@womensvoices.org
drawn on many of the life skills she acquired in raising her family and in supporting various community non-profits. Everything from her cooking talents to her abilities as a seamstress and organizer for numerous causes has been put to work. Not surprisingly, the neighborhood welcomed this University of Montana graduate and her vision for the landmark building. Perhaps, she feels, because she was a known quantity having lived in the neighborhood for some 25 years. Perhaps because she has put so much of her heart into it. “This business is about a building and the spirit of the building that serves the neighborhood. It’s not about a café,” observes Molly. “For me, working here is like a party every day. It’s a good place for social interaction and for people of widely differing ages to connect.” When customers express their gratitude to her for the café-market being a part of their world, it just makes her day all the brighter. Incidentally, that gratitude extends beyond the food and gift items she sells. Molly has also made available one spacious room – free of charge – for community gatherings. Everyone from knitters to bridge players to the university’s German and Russian clubs has tapped into that generosity. “I love Missoula values and pay my dues to live here. At the heart of it, the city has great progressive values in caring for one another physically and spiritually,” she says. “It has such a can-do attitude. You can accomplish anything here.” When you next visit, take a moment to look at the historic Galusha family photos hanging in the café. And while you are at it, be sure to say a special thank you to Buttercup. The Buttercup Market and Café is open daily at 1221 Helen Avenue, Missoula. For more information, call 406-541-1221 or visit thebuttercupmarket.com. MSN
The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Montana (MOLLI) Affectionately known as MOLLI, the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Montana offers a wide variety of educational programs and social opportunities that promote the lifelong learning and personal growth of older adults (+50). During the fall, winter, and spring terms, the MOLLI program, in partnership with The School of Extended & Lifelong Learning, offers a diverse collection of noncredit short courses, as well as special member events and community activities. MOLLI courses are open to the public, but membership is required. During 2014, the MOLLI program boasted record enrollment and a second gift of a million dollar endowment from the Bernard Osher Foundation. A treasured Missoula resource, MOLLI courses are taught by distinguished UM faculty, emeritus faculty, and other professionals and are made accessible to community members. Adults from all backgrounds and levels of education are welcome to enjoy programs covering the Humanities, Natural and Social Sciences, Fine Arts, and Current Political Affairs. MOLLI welcomes all +50 individuals who are curious and love to learn to become members. It is truly learning for learning’s sake – no exams, no grades, just fun! Spring Term is April 9-May 17. Registration opens Monday, March 2. Learn more or register online at umt.edu/ molli. MSN
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A Support Group For Fiber Addicts: Big Sky Fiber Arts Guild Article & Photo By Gail Jokerst Believe it or not, hand-spinning fibers and cooking gravy have something in common. Aside from their status as age-old household skills, the best results of both activities also happen to be as lump-free as possible. Granted anyone can learn to to spin wool or make gravy but to do either well takes practice and patience. No one knows this better than the members of Big Sky Fiber Arts Guild do. This diverse group of fiber enthusiasts based in the Bitterroot happily carries on the heirloom traditions of spinning, weaving, knitting, and crocheting. In the spirit of our thrifty ancestors, some members also pull apart old pullovers to recycle the wool for knitting socks and hats while others felt wool from yesteryear’s vests converting it into bags and bowls. At the guild’s monthly meetings, members gather with like-minded souls to enjoy their favorite pastime and warmly encourage newcomers. For many, the experience of creating scarves, mittens, sweaters, and shawls matters as much to them as the finished products. The gentle whirring of the turning wheel, the soothing rhythmic rocking of the treadle, and the tactile richness of soft fibers flowing through fingers hold an appeal that only seems to grow over time. “If inexperienced people want to learn about spinning or get better at what they do rather than just get by there’s always someone to help,” notes longtime member Marty Walters. “People are comfortable asking for and giving advice in a guild setting.” The comfortable feeling is partly attributable to the group’s effort to avoid talking politics or religion. Some timely issues are discussed, though. As Marty says, “Everybody is concerned about the effect of climate change on our future and about the traffic in Missoula.” Periodically the guild features regional Spin-Ins, which also include educational programs, demonstrations, and a potluck lunch. So their mission statement very appropriately reads “to educate the public about the fiber arts and to promote knowledge and skills in the fiber arts, both by members and the public.” Þ
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“When we get together, we all want to handle the items others make, even if they are something being worn at the moment. So if you don’t like to be touched, don’t go to a guild meeting; we’re all touchers,” says Leslie Taylor, a Stevensville spinner who values the friendship of the guild and the opportunity to learn from others. Every odd-numbered year, the guild hosts the Big Sky Fiber Arts Festival, which attracts over 2,000 participants to the Ravalli County Fairgrounds in conjunction with Mule Days. For over three decades, fiber lovers from as far away as Oregon, Washington, and Canada plus vendors selling spun yarns, spinning fibers, fleeces, carders, and spinning wheels have descended upon Hamilton for the popular event. This year’s festival will be held June 12-14, 2015 and features educational workshops as well as contests for judging fleeces and skeins of hand-spun yarns. In the world of spinning wheels – as in the world of cars – variations exist in engineering quality and price. More mechanically efficient than
their historic ancestors, modern wheels are also more precise and nicely stay in alignment. Antique wheels, on the other hand, are often beautiful to behold but not as easy to use as their modern counterparts are. Whether past or present models, they continue to be functional tools for making yarn to keep friends and families warm. While not every guild member spins, most do. And typically the spinning is done for personal use not to sell. “Practice helps with uniformity, evenness, and control size of the yarn. The wheel puts the twist into the wool to make it a cohesive string, thread, or yarn,” explains Leslie. “The thickness depends on the amount of fleece you release during spinning.” Spinning fleeces into yarn certainly is not a necessity these days, but that matters not to guild members. If practicality were the main point, none of them would be raising their own goats, sheep, alpacas, vicunas, and llamas just for the pleasure of creating garments from their fleeces. According to Libby Maclay, one of the guild’s 35 members, Montana is great country for tending her critters. “We don’t get too wet or too hot and it cools off at night. Goats and sheep can handle the cold as long as they can stay dry,” says Libby, who raises cashmere goats and loves learning from other spinners. “People like to have comrades who enjoy doing the same thing. It’s challenging to improve yourself all the time and we’re an inspiration to each other. The whole process is addictive.” Guild member Deb Essen assuredly agrees. “The guild is my fiber addicts support group. It’s wonderful to be a part of a talented group of people who enthusiastically share their passions for these arts.” Visit bigskyfiberartsguild.org for more information or Montana Association of Weavers and Spinners at mawsonline.org to learn about other spinning and weaving guilds in Montana. Non-guild groups also meet regularly including: Alberton Spinners, contact Steve McEwen at 406-626-4373, cell 406-5310459, or qsqualitywoodwork.com; Whitehall Spinners; and Mission Valley Spinners. MSN
Bucket List - continued from cover “Many of our clients want to do this as something on their bucket list.” Skydive Montana takes up about 400 first-timers each year. So far, a 93-year-old man has been their oldest client. Of the two sexes, Gary and Tina have found more women than men will exit an airborne plane. “Girls are more gutsy than guys. They’re more trusting and not afraid to say, ‘I’m scared to death.’ They won’t back out,” observes Gary. “Overcoming the fear of the unknown and making the jump is a big accomplishment for many people.” Aside from sizing up whether someone is physically fit to make a jump, Gary also assesses weather and wind conditions for safety and rechecks the gear before boarding the plane. While some may worry that a parachute won’t deploy, Gary lacks no confidence in that department. The tandem parachute system he uses has both a main and a reserve parachute with a backup automatic opener that deploys the reserve chute at a specified altitude if that should become necessary. “You may have a hard landing but you’ll survive,” comments Gary, who was impressed by Barbee’s spunk and fearlessness about taking her jump after her daughters reluctantly agreed to grant her wish. Fifteen members of Barbee’s family joined her that August morning at the Ronan airport. Despite being a tad anxious, they came to cheer her on and
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watch as she boarded the six-passenger yellow Cessna, which would soar 12,000 feet over the Mission Mountain’s peaks, lakes, and elk herds. “I will never forget the feeling I had when Gary slid the door open and we had to step out on the wing strut. I was very excited but never felt afraid. He grabbed my hands, crossed my arms in front of me, and we fell backwards off the wing,” says Barbee, who describes the descent as a dreamlike float through space. “We were so high up the people on the ground were no longer visible. My hearing aide was screaming as we fell, but once we popped the canopy, I could hear again. I liked it under canopy. You’re going slower so you can see all the farm fields below you,” remembers Barbee. “It was just gorgeous.” Upon landing, Barbee was surrounded by her
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proud family who greeted her with a mixture of joy and relief. Her great-grandsons aged 2, 3, and 7 ran out to give her high-5s. Then her teenage granddaughter announced she wanted to jump, too. Right away. “I loved it and couldn’t have planned it better, though I should have done it a lot sooner to make sure I was strong enough. It was a great adventure. And at 80 you don’t have many adventures,” remarks Barbee. When asked if she would do a repeat performance, Barbee answers with an unequivocal, “Definitely!” As Gary notes, “Most people will tell you the airplane ride alone was worth the money. The jump was the bonus.” For more information, contact Skydive Montana at 406-251-4338 or email skydivemt@msn.com. Also visit skydivemt.com. MSN
A Valentine’s Day Icon: Conversation Hearts Don’t be surprised to see updated messages as “Tweet Me,” “Text Me,” and “You Rock.” They won’t taste the same as the ones that cute boy put on your desk in third grade, either. The texture is softer, the colors more vivid, and the flavor is sharper. Think of the hint of sour in such flavors as green apple and blue raspberry. Of course, not everyone is happy when a beloved product changes, even a little bit. Before writing them off, however, give the updated product a try. People who really don’t enjoy popping them in their mouth still don’t have to waste them. From almost the beginning, creative folks have used the sturdy little morsels to make delightful crafts and decorations for cakes and cookies. Glue them on cardboard to make a picture frame, a wreath, or a heart. Completely cover the cake with them or just use them as colorful border. One of the best ways to bring out the kid in your Valentines, and one of the best Valentines for your grandkids, are those little pastel conversation hearts. Let them inspire you to write your own message to those you love. Any day it’s good to hear the longer messages: “You make me very happy,” “I’m lucky to have you in my life,” or “You’re still the only one for me.” MSN
FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FOR HEALTHY LIVING
FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
You Belong Here MISSOULA FAMILY YMCA
Well-Elderly Day: Feb 16
By Bernice Karnop Not much of what was developed in 1846 is still popular today. The exception may be the little candy conversation hearts that we give and receive around Valentine’s Day. These traditionally pastel hearts with a two- or three-word message printed right on the candy remained popular 100 years later, in 1946, when our readers were kids. They are still around today and are likely to be popular in 2046! They were originally made by the New England Confectionery Company and started as a little paper stuck into a candy shell, similar to a fortune cookie. The brother of NECCO’s founder discovered that he could print on the candy. At first they were printed by hand but he eventually figured out how to print by machine, using a die-cut press and vegetable food coloring. The novelty of having a message on the candy struck a chord with the public, which, continues to resonate today. NECCO makes more than eight billion of these sassy little treats every year. Believe it or not, they sell them all in about six weeks during January and February. They come in two sizes, half inch and three quarters of an inch. In order to fit, the message must be brief. Readers will remember “Be Mine,” “Miss You,” and “Kiss Me,” for example. These old-fashioned treats have changed and will continue to be tweaked to fit the times. In 2010, after 145 years, they threw out all the old sayings and created new ones, with input from the public.
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as if I were cross-country skiing or snowshoeing By Natalie Bartley With the ever-increasing popularity of bicy- and could remove clothing as I worked up a sweat. Grand Targhee requires fat bike tires to be 3.7 cling, combining fat bikes with snow results in a inches or wider to ride the resort’s Nordic trails. Tire natural extension of winter activities. Bicyclists are always looking for enjoyable ways to use a bicycle inflation can be adjusted between 3 to 10 psi to compensate for harder and fat bikes fit the bill. or softer trail conditions. Also known as snow In line with other Nordic bikes, these Clydestrail systems allowing dales of the bicycle world fat bikes, if the bike sport large volume, low tire leaves a visible rut pressure tires that proover 1-inch deep in vide riders with floatathe track, the groomed tion and traction. Fat Nordic trail is too soft bikes glide on groomed and bikers should wait Nordic trails, packed for the trails to harden winter bike trails, estabenough to support a fat lished snowmobile trails, bike. It may take a few or snow-packed roads. grooming cycles, so if Year-round these adaptyou must go, use the fat able bicycles serve as bike on a snow-covered transportation on a variroad or a snowmobile ety of terrains including Many ski areas and bike shops offer fat bike rentals for sand dunes, hiking trails, use on Nordic trail systems or forest roads. [Photo by trail. Andy said the and sandy beaches. Natalie Bartley] Grand Targhee Resort More than a dozen companies produce this Mack truck of the bicycle worked with the local Teton Valley Trails and Pathworld. Tires range from 3.7 to 5.0 inches wide ways to address the sport’s growth. A result of this and carry less than 10 psi of air pressure. A fat collaboration was the Fat Bike Best Practices for bike’s extra-wide tires absorb shocks while the Nordic trails, snowmobile trails, natural terrain, and low inflation of the tires allows traction without backcountry adopted by the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA). bogging down. In southwest Montana, the Lone Mountain In northwest Wyoming, fat bikes are welcomed on the Nordic trail system at Grand Targhee Re- Ranch – a 15-minute drive from Big Sky Resort sort. This is its fourth season of providing fat bik- and an hour from Bozeman – offers winter bikers ing. You can rent fat bikes at the resort at Teton use of a portion of its large Nordic trail system Mountain Outfitters and or in Driggs, Idaho at the with the purchase of a day pass or season pass. Habitat outdoor store. To use the resort’s trails, Bicyclists share the groomed trails with skiers and both bikers and cross-country skiers buy a Nordic their canines. Bring your own fat bike or rent nearby at Gallatin Alpine Sports in Big Sky. day-use pass or a season pass. Bethany Flikkema, a retail associate with Lone Andy Williams, the specials events and summer trails manager was integral in starting the Mountain Ranch, said fat bikes on their trails need fat bike movement. “We were the first ski area in tires 3.7 inches or wider and should use less than the country to allow bikes on cross-country ski 10 psi. While on the trail, Bethany advised biktrails,” said Andy. They held their inaugural Grand ers to, “Yield to other users and stay out of the Targhee Fat Bike Race in 2011 and continue to groomed classic ski tracks.” Bohart Ranch Cross Country Ski Center, loprovide races, including two this season. Grand cated 16 miles northeast of Bozeman, allows its Targhee added groomed single-track trails this winter specifically for fat bikes. Andy predicts fat season pass holders to use fat bikes on its Nordic bike usage and popularity will continue growing. trail system on Tuesdays and Wednesdays after In January, I tried a fat bike at Grand Targhee 3:00 p.m. and all day on Thursdays. In northwest Montana, you can rent fat bikes Resort’s Nordic trails and had an enjoyable experience. When riding down hills through silent, in Whitefish at Glacier Cyclery and then ride a vasnow-covered glades and forests, I felt safe and riety of national forest trails, snowmobile trails, or in control since the giant-sized tires provided a the Nordic trail system at the Stillwater Mountain soft and stable ride. As I rigorously pedaled up Lodge’s Stillwater Nordic Center located northwest hills until I had to stop to catch my breath, I was of Whitefish. Nationally, bicycling ranks second behind runpleasantly surprised how well the bike floated on the trail surface. Fortunately, I dressed in layers ning as a favorite outdoor activity by frequency of
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2015
participation according to the 2013 Outdoor Recreation Participation Report by the Outdoor Foundation. Are you in the bike saddle this winter? Check with your local trail managers and outdoor shops regarding emerging fat bike riding opportunities. For further information: • Fat Bike Best Practices – imba.com/resources/land-protection/fat-bikes • Alta, Wyo. – Grand Targhee Resort – grandtarghee.com • Big Sky, Mont. – Gallatin Alpine Sports – gallatinalpinesports.com • Big Sky, Mont. – Lone Mountain Ranch – lonemountainranch.com • Billings, Mont. – The Spoke Shop – spokeshop.com
• Bozeman, Mont. – Bohart Ranch Cross Country Ski Center – bohartranchxcski.com • Missoula, Mont. – Big Sky Bikes – bigskybike. com • Whitefish, Mont. – Glacier Cyclery & Nordic – glaciercyclery.com • Whitefish, Mont. – Stillwater Mountain Lodge Nordic Center – stillwatermtnlodge.com. Natalie Bartley is a Boise-based author of the mobile app travel guide Boise’s Best Outdoor Adventures and the trail guidebooks Best Easy Day Hikes Boise and Best Rail Trails Pacific Northwest. She is a PSIA certified Nordic instructor ready to ditch her skis and buy a fat bike. MSN
Montana Senior Olympics Set For June All senior athletes (50+) are encouraged to join others from Montana, other states, and Canada and enter the 30th Annual Montana Senior Olympics to be held in the Queen City of Helena June 18-20, 2015. It is a fact that a sedentary lifestyle is not healthy for anyone, and Montana Senior Olympics is a way to keep active and make new friends. All ability levels are encouraged to participate, and while it is fun to win, it is fun just to give it a try. Sports include archery, basketball (3 X 3 and shooting), bowling, cycling, golf, horseshoes, pickleball, race-walk, road race, swimming, table tennis, tennis, and track & field. Pickleball is relatively new in Montana but it is becoming more popular as it is all over the country. Gold, silver, and bronze medals are awarded to the winners in each of the five-year age groups. Registration booklets will be mailed to former entrants in the early spring. Be sure to watch for yours. If you are moving, you will need to send us
your new address, as your registration materials will not be forwarded. Call 406-586-5543 or email kayjn3@gmail.com to change your address or for more information. Registration material will be online at montanaseniorolympics.org, but it’s much easier if you have your own copy of the booklet. That way you are familiar with all the details. Social events include a gathering of athletes and sports commissioners on Thursday evening at ExplorationWorks. Friday evening will feature an informal banquet at the Colonial Inn where the outstanding athlete of the year will be named – someone who has participated and competed despite health issues or other problems. If you have a nominee, send that information to kayjn3@ gmail.com or mail to 2200 Bridger Drive, Bozeman, MT 59715. We look forward to seeing you at the games! MSN
Keeping Montana’s Bison Wild By Joe Gutowski The Yellowstone Buffalo Foundation is introducing a bill (LC2058) to improve the conservation and management responsibilities of Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) for wild buffalo/bison. This includes protecting private property while cooperating with the Department of Livestock. The bill would provide that: • Buffalo/bison are culturally important and valued native wildlife in Montana. • In recognition of the cultural heritage and treaty rights of sovereign tribal nations, FWP will pursue opportunities for conservation and management of wild buffalo/bison with tribal governments in Montana. • Before FWP releases or transplants any wild buffalo/bison onto public or private land in Montana, it will develop and adopt a conservation and management plan for them to include control provisions after consultation with several state agencies. The plan will include public comment and hearings in the affected counties. • When FWP is responsible for the death of a
wild buffalo/bison, the carcass of the animal must be disposed of by the most economical means with a priority for donation to a charity or Indian tribal organization. • Management of wild buffalo/bison for disease control would be repealed. With the Legislature in session, call your legislator today to support HB 2058 to better manage Montana’s buffalo/bison. For additional information visit yellowstonebuffalofoundation.org or call 406-587-9181. MSN
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How Punny!
Missoula Library Hosts Writing Contest Missoula Public Library’s 7 Annual Writing Contest entry forms and rules brochures are now available at the Library and its six branches. The contest is an opportunity for writers of any age to see their works of short fiction or non-fiction in print, as all qualified entries are bound into book form for check out. And it doesn’t hurt that there are cash prizes. First place winners in eight categories receive $100, with $50 for second place, and $25 for third place winners. th
“The odds are especially good for the 8-10 and the 15-18 age groups,” said Bradin Farnsworth, a Youth Services librarian and coordinator of this year’s contest. “Non-fiction categories typically have fewer entries as well.” Writers have until 5 p.m. on February 20, 2015 to submit their entries in the format required. Entry forms and rules brochures can be found at MissoulaPublicLibrary.org or call 406721-2665 for more information. MSN
Did you hear about the Buddhist who refused Novocain during a root canal? His goal was transcend dental medication.
Customer Service
Jean-Paul Sartre was sitting at a French cafe, revising his draft of Being and Nothingness. He said to the waitress, “I’d like a c u p o f c o ff e e , p l e a s e , w i t h n o c r e a m . ” The waitress replied, “I’m sorry, Monsieur, but we’re out of cream. How about with no milk?” MSN
Baseball In Heaven
And don’t forget the sign at a Chicago radiator shop: Best place in town to take a leak.
Submitted by Julie Hollar Two 90-year-old women, Rose and Barb, had been friends all of their lives. When it was clear that Rose was dying, Barb visited her every day. One day Barb said, “Rose, we both loved playing women’s softball all our lives, and we played it all through High School. Please do me one favor. When you get to Heaven, somehow you must let me know if there’s women’s softball there.” Rose looked up at Barb from her deathbed and said, “Barb, you’ve been my best friend for many years. If it’s at all possible, I’ll do this favor for you.” Shortly after, Rose passed on. At midnight a couple of nights later, Barb was awakened from a sound sleep by a blinding flash of white light and a voice calling out to her, “Barb, Barb.” “Who is it?” asked
Barb, sitting up suddenly. “Who is it?” “Barb. It’s me, Rose.” “You’re not Rose. Rose just died.” “I’m telling you, it’s me, Rose,” insisted the voice. “Rose! Where are you?” “In Heaven,” replied Rose. “I have some really good news and a little bad news.” “Tell me the good news first,” said Barb. “The good news,” Rose said, “is that there’s softball in Heaven. Better yet, all of our old buddies who died before us are here, too. Better than that, we’re all young again. Better still, it’s always springtime, and it never rains or snows. And best of all, we can play softball all we want, and we never get tired.” “That’s fantastic,” said Barb. “It’s beyond my wildest dreams! So what’s the bad news?” “You’re pitching Tuesday.” MSN
Instream Flows For Dewatered Important Fisheries By Joe Gutkoski, Montana River Action Montana River Action is introducing a bill to preserve instream flows, a remedy for the dewatering of 4,739 miles of Important Fisheries that are identified in the Montana State Fish, Wildlife & Parks Dewatering Concern Areas list. The bill requires 25% of the average annual flow to remain in streams in periods of low water to protect important fisheries. The sweet, clean-flowing waters of Montana are a public trust resource the same as clean air. The bill complies with our Montana Constitution, which states, “Public trust interests and private property interests are constitutionally protected, and when in competition must be reconciled to protect important fisheries.” No additional personnel, gauging stations, or water diversion structures need to be installed to manage, administer, or enforce the provisions of the bill. The on-the-ground, working irrigation rights system will continue to control all water distributions and would be responsible to retain 25 percent of the average annual flow where important fisheries are about to be dewatered. Please ask your legislators to support this bill to protect our fish. Without such a law, the fish have either to move out of a stream or die. For more information email info@montanariveraction.org or visit montanariveraction.org. MSN
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2015
Springtime Means Kites By Bernice Karnop It seems to people living in the northern tier that February 8 is an odd date to celebrate kite flying. It’s possible, of course, that the weather could be nice enough to fly kites, but on the other hand, it might be better to plan a trip to a kinder-to-kites location. Or plan to build a kite to fly when spring is a bit more certain. Kite flyers generally fall into three categories represented by iconic kite flyers Benjamin Franklin, Mary Poppins, and Charlie Brown. The Benjamin Franklin kite flyers do it for science. Ben got a charge out of studying electricity with his kite, flying it in a thunderstorm. That is a bit dangerous, and is not recommended. Safer science lessons include discovering the principles of flying like lift, drag, and anchor points. Franklin flyers can discover how the wind
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flows over the wings to create an area of low pressure above and high pressure below, and how these principles keep the craft aloft. Mary Poppins kite flyers make their own set of wings and rise above the troubles of life by flying a kite. “Let’s go fly a kite,” they invite. “When you send it flying up there, All at once you’re lighter than air, You can dance with the breeze over houses and trees, With your fist holding tight, to the string of your kite.” These recreational flyers delight in kites shaped like diamonds, tetrahedrons, or boxes. They fly colorful kites that look like fish, raptors, dragons, and flying insects dancing in the breeze. Turbine-like spinners and spin socks catch the wind and whirl like a kaleidoscope. Mary Poppins kiters have the most fun. Charlie Brown‘s kite flying attempts end in disaster as their kites are inevitably captured and held by kite-eating trees. Charlie Brown kite flyers are a warning to all that there are dangers to the sport. They teach the important lesson that one must fly kites where there are no trees or worse, power lines. Power lines can electrocute the person holding the string, especially if it’s raining.
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2015
Charlie Brown knows to keep children and others from running ahead and getting hurt when the kite takes an unexpected dive to earth. Charlie Brown flyers know that it’s easy to fall over their chairs or coolers when their eyes are aloft, watching their beautiful aircraft rather than paying attention to where they are putting their feet. They know to beware of cliffs, holes, or drop offs for the same reason. Kites are said to have been used in China for at least 3,000
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years. China had the best materials for making strong, lightweight kites: silk fabric and bamboo. They used them for serious work, including sending military signals. Kites are still used for utilitarian reasons, chiefly in meteorology, aeronautics, and communication. Kites are used to power sports activities including such activities as kite surfing, kite land boarding, and even snow kiting. One finds kite festivals around the world and they are the center of many traditions, celebrations, and competitions. The popular book, The Kite Runner, by Khaled Hosseini, tells of the tradition of kite fighting in pre-war Kabul. Best of all, kite flying is family activity that gets everyone off the couch and outdoors. Who better to initiate the idea than grandparents? What do you say? Let’s go fly a kite! MSN
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2015
MONTANA SENIOR NEWS PAGE 45
12th Annual Big Sky Documentary Film Festival Has Much To Offer Seniors The Big Sky Documentary Film Festival (BSDFF) has been lighting up downtown Missoula for the past 11 years, and this year’s event promises to be the biggest yet. Over 150 non-fiction films from all over the world will be screened over 11 days in February, and a good number of those films will have a particular interest to Montana’s seniors. John Cohen was a key figure in the revival of “old-timey” music in the late 1950s, and cofounded the seminal group The New Lost City Ramblers. He is an accomplished documentary filmmaker and a noted photographer, having taken a number of iconic images of cultural figures like Bob Dylan and Jack Kerouac. Cohen will be in Missoula as a BSDFF retrospective artist, and all of his talents will be on display. In addition to screenings of six of his films, with the director in attendance for Q&A, there will be an exhibition of his photography at the Brink Gallery, and he will be performing a concert at the Top Hat Lounge, backed by the Montana band, Balled In Burlap. The concert begins at 6 pm on Sunday, Feb. 8. Films at BSDFF are grouped into themed units called strands, and several of those strands will resonate with seniors in particular. Vietnam: Commemorated Through the Lens will examine the continuing impact of America’s most infamous war. Using Peter Davis’ 1974 Oscar-winning film Hearts and Minds as a springboard, this strand also features four films from 2014 that show how the war reverberates
through American and world culture to this day. The Americans with Disabilities Act strand contains 10 films that showcase the burgeoning disabilities rights movement. As playwright Neil Marcus said, “Disability is not a brave struggle or ‘courage in the face of adversity.’ Disability is an art. It’s an ingenious way to live.” Younger than Yesterday is a group of films that highlight the challenges and triumphs of aging. As the strand description notes, “Aging is an art, and these films prove it.” Other strands with Montana appeal include Made in Montana and The American West, featuring a stellar collection of films about Big Sky Country and the region. Finally, BSDFF’s closing night film is the world premiere of And We Were Young, Missoula resident Andy Smetanka’s exhaustively researched oral history of American soldiers during the final days of World War I. This stunning, stop-motion animation was three years and over 250,000 individual frames in the making and will certainly strike a chord with history buffs of all ages. “We strive to make the Big Sky Documentary Festival an invaluable resource for all Montanans,” said Executive Director Gita Saedi-Kiely. “And this year in particular, we welcome all Montana seniors to share in the wonder and joy of top-notch nonfiction films.” Information on all screenings and events can be found at bigskyfilmfest.org, or by calling 406541-3456. MSN
Pregnant at 71 Submitted by Carol Ofsthun A woman went to the doctor’s office where she was seen by one of the younger doctors. After about four minutes in the examination room, she burst out screaming as she ran down the hall. An older doctor stopped her and asked what the problem was, and she told him her story. After listening, he had her sit down and relax in another room. The older doctor then marched down the hallway to where the young doctor was writing on his clipboard. “What is the matter with you?” the older doctor demanded. “Mrs. Terry is 71 years old, has four grown children and seven grandchildren, and you told her she was pregnant?” The younger doctor continued writing and without even looking up said, “Does she still have the hiccups?” MSN
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Worst Classic DVDs Part 2
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poon the rising cost of health care, and the opening scenes are funny, but then the film deteriorates. Some scenes are actually pathetic. The best thing about the film is its theme song performed by former member of Paul Revere and the Raiders, Keith Allison. Rated R; one star. Peter Hyman’s pretentious satire Peeper (1976) is also one of Michael Caine’s worst films. Caine plays the peeper (private eye) – self-conscious and at times acts bored. Natalie Wood was trying to make a comeback in film, but Peeper didn’t help her career. The script is convoluted with laughs strained and acidic. Rated PG; one star. In Andrew McLaglen’s excruciatingly dull Breakthrough (1978), Richard Burton plays a German sergeant who becomes embroiled in a conspiracy to kill Hitler. Burton acts as if his lines were flown in. The cast including Robert Mitchum and Rod Steiger is wasted. The film, which was a sequel to Sam Peckinpah’s Cross of Iron, should have been much better. Instead, the film was an inglorious misfire. Rated PG; ½ star. Peter Sellers plays the villainous Fu Manchu for laughs in The Fiendish Plot of Fu Manchu (1980). But the film isn’t funny and crawls at a snail’s pace. It’s an unconscionable waste of money and talent. Rated PG; no stars. In Raise the Titanic (1980), Richard Jordan plays a James Bond like character who is given the unenviable task of raising the luxury liner from a watery grave. Most of the film was shot under water, and the audiences drowned of boredom. John Barry’s monolithic soundtrack adds to the tedium. The film was a disaster at the box office. Rated PG; one star. In Irwin Allen’s turkey of all turkeys When Time Ran Out (1980), Paul Newman and Jacqueline Bisset are almost destroyed by a South Pacific volcano. While producing the film, Allen ran out of money. The film looks like it’s dehydrated – the script is paper-thin. Paul Newman looks appropriately embarrassed, as does Bisset. Rated PG; no stars. In Hugh Hudson’s Revolution (1985), Al Pacino is extremely miscast as a trapper whose boat is sold to the Continental Army. Nastassja Kinski plays a young woman who joins the rebels, but overacts and wanders aimlessly through the film. Hudson’s revisionist film about the War for Independence is disgraceful. Rated R; no stars. Until the next time have fun with these archival bombs. They should liven up these cold winter nights. MSN
BUBBLEGUM DAY | FEB 6
EVERYDAY FAVORITES
By Mark Fee Oddly, some of the worst films ever made are worth watching, again. You can at least laugh at them the second time around even though the first time might have been much like an annoying popcorn kernel stuck in your teeth. The film industry has an obsession with making bad movies. In the late 1970s and early 80s, a slew of horrifyingly inept films was released. Irwin Allen’s success with The Poseidon Adventure (1972) must have gone to his head. He produced two more disaster films in the 70s, each one increasingly ludicrous and unintentionally hilarious. The Swarm (1978) was an epic monstrosity; Beyond the Poseidon Adventure (1979) was even worse. Director Michael Ritchie (The Candidate, 1971) regurgitated Peter Benchley’s thriller, The Island (1980). The film began fine, and then it disappeared. The story was about a group of grotesque modern pirates. Ritchie tried to mix social satire with sadism and cannibalism. It did not work. Bad films are abysmal and unforgettable. But they are fun to critique. Listed below are more of my favorite clunkers. In Gordon Douglas’s Way Way Out (1966), Jerry Lewis plays an astronaut who is sent with his wife (Connie Stevens) to replace another group of astronauts on the moon. Russian cosmonauts Anita Ekberg and Dick Shawn join Jerry and Connie. It’s one of Jerry’s absolute worst films. Most of the comedy falls flat and the dialogue is deplorable. Ekberg is alluringly attractive, but that’s it. NR; no stars. Peter Ustinov plays an inept Mexican general who tries to retake the Alamo in Viva Max (1970). The film probably looked good on paper, but nothing works. It still lingers in my mind as an incomprehensible, laughless disaster. Ustinov prances about as the general – even his horse looks embarrassed. The cast also stars Jonathan Winters, John Astin, and Pamela Tiffin. It was shown in Texas at a film festival. Who knows why? Rated G; no stars In Where Does it Hurt? (1972) Peter Sellers plays a ruthless, amoral hospital administrator. Joanne Pflugg (M.A.S.H., 1970) plays Seller’s secretary. The film was meant to lam-
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2015
Tim Behrens to Appear in McManus in Love Many Montana Senior News readers will remember Patrick McManus who has authored dozens of humorous books, many about his life in the great outdoors. For years his stories have appeared regularly in several national magazines. Many years ago, he teamed up with Tim Behrens to produce stage plays that have been hugely popular, especially in the northwest part of the United States. McManus has worked with Behrens exclusively, for many years, in providing riotous humor on the stage, as he tells somewhat farfetched stories of his life, especially in the great outdoors. It is a one-man show but several characters, all played by Tim. The stories must have their roots in real life events, but never have they been presented in a more humorous fashion. The Great Falls Community Concert Association and the Great Falls Area Chamber of Commerce have teamed up to present Tim in McManus in Love, one of the most popular McManus plays, on Thursday, March 12, 2015, at 7:30 p.m. at the Mansfield Theater in the Great Falls Civic Center. Tickets are available at the Mansfield Box Office in the Great Falls Convention Center (Hours 11 a.m.–3 p.m. M/F), at 406-455-8514 (same hours), and on online at ticketing.greatfallsmt.net (24/7). This is a show you won’t want to miss! MSN
Where Are They Now – Gene Wilder? By Marshall Jay Kaplan The funny man of the cinema – best known for his association in Mel Brooks’ films – considers himself retired from acting, but not retired from writing novels. Gene Wilder was born as Jerome Silberman on June 11, 1933. In Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Wilder first became interested in acting at the age of eight. After high school, he studied Theatre Arts at The University of Iowa. Upon graduation, he attended The Bristol Old Vic Theatre School in England for six months and then returned to the United States for further study acting at the Stanislavski Method of Acting School in New York City. During this time, Wilder began appearing on the legitimate stage in such plays as Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night. Always a student of his craft, Wilder further enrolled at the prestigious Actor’s Studio to be taught by the legendary Lee Strasberg. It was at this time that he changed his name – taking “Gene” from a Thomas Wolfe novel, Look Homeward Angel and “Wilder” from author Thornton Wilder. After more than ten years of in-depth, seri-
ous acting classes, education, and various stage plays, Wilder made his film debut in the legendary film, Bonnie and Clyde (1967) with Warren Beatty and Faye Dunaway. However, all of his training in dramatic acting was soon to be tossed aside after Wilder was approached by a writer/ director Mel Brooks. In 1967, Brooks approached Wilder for the role of “Leo Bloom” in the dark comedy/ musical, The Producers (1968). The film became a comedic cult classic and Wilder became a comedy sensation. “I’m not so funny. I’m funny on camera sometimes. In life, once in a while. Once in a while.” Wilder’s association with Brooks continued in the films, Blazing Saddles and Young Frankenstein (both 1974). Wilder also worked with the
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legendary Woody Allen in Everything You Wanted To Know About Sex… But Were Afraid To Ask (1972). He also starred as the title character in the classic children’s film, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (1971). The 1980s saw Wilder form three long-term relationships – two professional ones with Richard Pryor and Sidney Poitier and one personal one with Gilda Radner. Pryor and Wilder starred together in Silver Streak (1976), Stir Crazy (1980),
and See No Evil, Hear No Evil (1989). Poitier directed Stir Crazy and directed Wilder in Hanky Panky (1982) – where Wilder met his future wife, Saturday Night Live alumnus and funny lady Gilda Rader. Radner and Wilder starred together in the Wilder-directed film, The Lady In Red (1984). Sadly, in 1989, Radner died of ovarian cancer, and Wilder founded the Ovarian Cancer Detection Center in her name. Although Wilder continued to make film and television appearances, he really made a conscious decision to take a step back from acting as the films out there were just not for him. “I’m tired of watching the bombing, shooting, killing, swearing, and 3-D. I get 52 movies a year
sent to me. If it’s something wonderful, I’ll do it. But I don’t get anything like that,” he explained. Wilder turned his creativity toward writing, with his first novel released in 2007. His most recent novel was published in 2013. Wilder has remarried and lives a quiet life with his wife in Connecticut. “I don’t like show business, I realized,” he explained. “I like show, but I don’t like the business. I like writing books. I’d rather be at home with my wife. I can write, take a break, come out, have a glass of tea, give my wife a kiss, and go back in and write some more. It’s not so bad. I am really lucky.” MSN
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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, 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 your-
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2015
self 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 (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 consis-
MONTANA SENIOR NEWS PAGE 49
tency 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. MSN
Time For Reflection
Submitted by Julie Brantley Patton staggered home very late after another evening with his drinking buddy, Paddy, and took off his shoes to avoid waking his wife, Kathleen. He tiptoed as quietly as he could toward the stairs leading to their upstairs bedroom, but misjudged the bottom step. As he caught himself by grabbing the banister, his body swung around and he landed heavily on his rump. A whiskey bottle in each back pocket broke and made the landing especially painful. Managing not to yell, Patton jumped up, pulled down his pants, and looked in the hall mirror to see that bottom was cut and bleeding. He managed quietly to find a full box of Band-Aids and began putting one as best he could on each place he saw blood.
He then hid the almost empty Band-Aid box and shuffled and stumbled his way to bed. In the morning, Patton woke up with searing pain in both his head and bottom and Kathleen staring at him from across the room. “You were drunk again last night weren’t you?” she said. “Why you say such a mean thing?” Patton replied. “Well,” Kathleen said, “it could be the open front door; it could be the broken glass at the bottom of the stairs; it could be the drops of blood trailing through the house; it could be your bloodshot eyes; but mostly… it’s all those Band-Aids stuck on the hall mirror. MSN
PAGE 50 MONTANA SENIOR NEWS
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2015
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Who knows how they came to be, but they are everywhere, and they cover every topic imaginable! What are we talking about? Observances... you know those day, week, or month quasi-celebrations/events that are designed to focus our attention on a particular cause, disease, group, event, etc. so that we will support, recognize, buy, or donate to the idea that the observance represents. For example Bunsen Burner Day, Earmuffs Day, Puppy Day, Thinking Day, Hippo Day, Hoof Care Month, Cupcake Day, and Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week to name just a few of the thousands. They can be local, national, or even worldwide. Some are created by Presidential proclamation typically to honor or commemorate a public issue or social cause, ethnic group, historic event, or noted individual. Others are cre-
ated by national health organizations, historical or cultural organizations, and many are simply marketing tools created by trade or professional organizations. Since there are not many days that are not observances of something, our staff thought they should form the basis for this month’s contest. This month only for our Can You Find These Observances quiz, we will award two prizes – each for $50 – to the first two readers with correct answers drawn from the submitted answers. Thank you to all who participated in our Famous Female Vocalists quiz in the December 2014/January 2015 issue. The winner selected from the answers submitted is Kathy Tenda of Twin Bridges. Congratulations to Tenda, winner of our $25 cash prize!
Created by Montana Senior News Staff Are you ready to win $50? Did you know that there are more than 600 observances that occur during the months of February and March? We did not until we started looking, and we are betting that there are many more! Some are serious, some humorous, and some plainly ridiculous. What we have done, with the cooperation of our advertisers, is add an observance within the borders of some of the ads appearing in this issue. In fact, 53 ads in this paper have an observance on them. They are scattered throughout
the paper in no particular pattern, and your job is to find them. Only observances that appear within the border of an ad are correct answers. Therefore, you cannot use the observances mentioned by way of introduction or explanation. Again, only observances that appear within the border of an ad in this paper are correct answers. What we require is that you find any 50 of the 53 ads that have an observance on them. Then, on a numbered piece of paper, write down three things: • The page number on which each ad appears;
MONTANA SENIOR NEWS PAGE 51
Because this issue’s Can You Find These Observances? quiz came from our staff, the $25 prize for submitting the winning quiz in the April/ May 2015 issue will be doubled to $50. Two cash prizes are awarded from the “Contest Corner” in each issue of the Montana Senior News. One prize goes to the person who submits the entry that our staff selects as the featured quiz or puzzle in the “Contest Corner” for that issue. Be creative and send us some good, fun, and interesting puzzles! Please mail your entries to the Montana Senior News, P.O. Box 3363, Great Falls, MT 59403, or email to montsrnews@bresnan.net by March 10, 2015 for our April/May 2015 edition. Be sure to work the crossword puzzle on our website montanaseniornews.com.
Can You Find These Observances?
Answers to Wonderful Female Vocalists 1. G 2. A 3. U 4. I 5. B 6. W
Submitted by Julie Brantley, Choteau 13. S 7. L 14. K 8. E 15. N 9. P 16. T 10. J 17. D 11. C 18. R 12. F
19. Q 20. X 21. V 22. O 23. M 24. H
MSN
• The name of the advertiser (Acme Travel Agency for example); • The observance that appears on the ad i.e. Healthy Weight Week. Mail or email (montsrnews@bresnan.net) your answers to us by March 10, 2015. By a drawing from the entries submitted, we will award a $50 cash prize each to the first two correct entries. What are you waiting for... it’s time to start scouring the paper to find the ads with the observances! MSN
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ACROSS 1. Supporting workers 6. Military activities 9. Self-satisfaction 13. *Mike Ditka has his own brand of this smoke 14. One who is not Jewish, Yiddish 15. Done for dramatic affect? 16. Often done for one’s sins 17. Unagi 18. Garment enlarger 19. *The ___ ____ 21. *Winners of first two Super Bowls 23. Après-____ 24. Keep it up? 25. State V.I.P. 28. Starch used in Asian food 30. Extremely tiny 34. Top of Kilimanjaro, e.g. 36. Texting button 38. Result of too much pressure 40. Pharrell Williams’ 2014 album 41. Last European colony in China 43. Muslim honorific 44. Tax evader’s fear 46. *Something to play for 47. Track ____ 48. Confusion 50. Feudal laborer 52. Like humor or martini 53. Charades action 55. 401(k) alternative 57. *Super Bowl host state 61. Fracas 65. Precedes birth 66. Former measure of U.S. economy 68. Made cow noise 69. Mixtures 70. Earned at Wharton or Kellogg 71. “_____ it!” said the accused 72. *Hendricks and Ginn Jr. 73. Make a scene 74. Type of car DOWN 1. Wound, eventually 2. South American monkey
3. All excited 4. Vampire’s feature, pl. 5. One who ______ out at the site of a snake 6. Curved molding 7. “The Raven” writer 8. Airy spirit 9. Dropped or fell 10. Source of artist’s inspiration 11. ____-friendly 12. Understands 15. Alfresco meal 20. Unhealthy vapors 22. *Teams rely on this kicker sense 24. To the point 25. Lady of “Applause” 26. Poppy product 27. Opera composer Giuseppe _____ 29. *Cleats, helmet, pads 31. Pack like sardines 32. Was violently angry
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33. Shade of yellow 35. *49 37. Copenhagen native 39. *Super Bowl halftime performer 42. Finno-_____ language 45. Malignant or benign ones 49. Bowling target 51. Drab and unattractive people 54. Molten rock 56. Before, in the olden days 57. Sir Mix-_-___ 58. Rapid series of short loud sounds 59. Footnote acronym 60. Menageries 61. A quarrel 62. *Not a Super Bowl party without it? 63. Bulgarian money 64. Place of forbidden fruit 67. *Where to watch MSN
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MONTANA SENIOR NEWS PAGE 53
AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Program in Full Swing for 2015 Tax Season AARP Foundation is again providing free tax assistance and preparation for taxpayers with low to moderate income through the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program. In its 46th year, AARP Foundation Tax-Aide is the nation’s largest free tax assistance and preparation service, giving special attention to those 60 and older. Taxpayers do not need to be a member of AARP or a retiree to use this service. “There’s no question, over the years the U.S. tax code has become more complicated and confusing,” said Joy Bruck, AARP Montana State President. “It is almost overwhelming nowadays for the average person to do their own taxes – and not everyone can afford to hire a tax preparer.” Last year in Montana, 177 AARP Foundation Tax-Aide volunteers helped nearly 11,600 Montanans file their federal and state tax returns. The program is offered at approximately 27 sites throughout the state including senior centers, libraries, and other convenient locations. Thanks to the efforts of the AARP Tax-Aide
volunteers, the total dollar amount back in the pockets of Montanans amounted to nearly $4 million last year. “It is extremely important to make sure that any tax credits or refunds are not overlooked – to someone on a fixed income, every dollar counts,” added Bruck. “AARP Foundation Tax-Aide helps seniors, as well as low to moderate income taxpayers of all ages, prepare their returns with substantially less stress.” Nationwide, AARP Foundation Tax-Aide’s 35,000 volunteers at nearly 5,000 sites provided 2.6 million people with free tax help. Taxpayers who used AARP Foundation Tax-Aide received $1.3 billion in income tax refunds and more than $244 million in Earned Income Tax Credits (EITCs). For more information or to locate an AARP Foundation Tax-Aide site, visit MontanaFreeFile. org or call 1-888-227-7669. AARP Foundation TaxAide is a program of AARP Foundation, offered in cooperation with the IRS. MSN
Retirement should be a time to concentrate on the things you care about most rather than spending a majority of your time worried about finances. However, according to recent data from Consumers’ Research, almost half of Americans over 70 say that they are either unprepared financially for retirement or they just don’t know. • Of those over 70, 26% said that they were NOT on track to have enough savings to retire and 22% were unsure. • Of those 60-69, 46% said they weren’t on track to have enough savings to retire. • 22% of those over 70 don’t feel as if they have enough for their monthly expenses; that number rises to 40% for those 60-69 and an astounding 57% of those 50-59 feel as if their income isn’t enough to cover their expenses.
• Only 28% of 40-49 year olds think that they will have enough to retire, 33% of 50-59 year olds think that they do and only 45% of those 60-69 think that they will have enough to retire. • 33% of 50-59 year olds have less than 3-month’s expenses saved; that number climbs to 44% for 40-49 year olds. • Those 60 and over were most concerned about the rising cost of medicine/ healthcare, food, and home heating, in that order. Data are from a nationwide survey of 1,200 adults aged 18+ in conjunction with Magellan Strategies. The survey data has a margin of error of +/- 2.83% at the 95% confidence interval. MSN
Only Half of Americans Over 70 Financially Confident About Retirement
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The AARP Automobile Insurance Program from The Hartford is underwritten by Hartford Fire Insurance Company and its affiliates, One Hartford Plaza, Hartford, CT 06155. In Washington, the Program is underwritten by Trumbull Insurance Company. AARP and its affiliates are not insurance agencies or carriers and do not employ or endorse insurance agents, brokers, representatives or advisors. The program is provided by The Hartford, not AARP or its affiliates. Paid endorsement. The Hartford pays a royalty fee to AARP for the use of AARP's intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. AARP membership is required for Program eligibility in most states. Applicants are individually underwritten and some may not qualify. Specific features, credits, and discounts may vary and may not be available in all states in accordance with state filings and applicable law. The premiums quoted by an authorized agent for any Program policy include the additional costs associated with the advice and counsel that your authorized agent provides. 107995
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PAGE 54 MONTANA SENIOR NEWS
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Thousands Of Montanans Could Be Eligible For Property Tax Assistance The Montana Department of Revenue estimates that thousands of Montanans could be eligible for property tax assistance, but have not applied for it. You could be one of them. The Property Tax Assistance Program (PTAP) provides property tax assistance on a primary residence to anyone who meets the qualifications, and there is no age restriction. In some cases, this amounts to hundreds of dollars. In order to qualify for PTAP, taxpayers must own and occupy their home as their primary residence and meet income requirements. You can find those requirements explained on our website at revenue.mt.gov. “Property tax assistance is a great program,”
says revenue director Mike Kadas. “It offsets property taxes so that you can use your money on other necessities such as food, heating, clothing, and medicine.” For an application, taxpayers can download the form at revenue.mt.gov or contact their local Revenue Department office. All taxpayers who applied in the prior year were automatically mailed an application in January, whether or not the benefit was granted before. For additional questions or if you did not receive your automatic application, please phone our call center at 1-866-859-2254 or 406-444-6900. MSN
Third-place Wasn’t Enough For Ben Murray By Robb Hicken Better Business Bureau Ben Murray wasn’t amused when he was told he had received the “third prize” in the Senior Citizens Cash Rewards for paying his utility bills on time. Reward center CEO David Washington, speaking through a thick European accent, said one of his agents was in the area and was ready to deliver the $2.5 million in cash and a new white 2015 Mercedes-Benz. “The prize is apparently awarded to Every year the U.S. government issues billions of dollars in tax people who pay their various bills on time refunds. So many billions we’re now calling tax season … refund season. And nobody gets more of your money back than H&R Block. Guaranteed. and who shop at stores such as Wal-Mart, Put our expertise to work on your refund. Walgreens, Dollar General, and a bunch of other stores that were all common bigbox type places,” says Murray. After describing the lucrative prize, “(Mr. Washington) then asked me if I still lived at the same address, which was an old address of mine, and I kind of mumbled, which he took to be a ‘yes,’” Murray says. “But, in the time-honored 800-472-5625 Offices Across Montana tradition of the scam, he continued.” Not everyone receives a refund. Based on Maximum Refund Guarantee, see HRBLOCK.COM for details. OBTP#B13696 ©2014 HRB Tax Group, Inc. Common to “lottery” scams – whether
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through a contest letter or caller – is the requirement that the prospective recipient of the winnings send a sum of money to pay for processing fees or taxes. Victims wire the money or use a prepaid money card, but never get their “winnings.” Older people who tend to be trusting and those in vulnerable financial situations are targeted because they are less likely to verify if the prize is legitimate and thus lose their hard-earned money by falling for the scammer’s demands. Murray did the right thing – he hung up on the caller. “Within about two minutes Mr. Washington called back and just started right in on how lucky I was, so I told him, ‘I’m hanging up now because we are done talking and I’m not interested, so don’t bother,’” Murray says. “I hung up the phone; about two minutes later the phone rang. It was he again!” Everyone should be aware of the following scam red flags: • You can’t win a contest you didn’t enter. You need to buy a ticket or complete an application to participate in a legitimate contest or lottery. • You are offered ‘too-good-to-be-true’ prizes. It is usually a large sum of money, and sometimes even a brand new car but there is always a catch. Scammers make it sound easy to claim your prize.
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• You have to give personal information. Anytime someone tries to get your bank account number, Social Security number, or other sensitive information, the red flag is up. • You have to pay to win. Don’t be blinded by large sums of money. Legitimate prizes do not come with processing fees, and taxes are paid directly to the Internal Revenue Service and state revenue agencies.
• You have to purchase Green Dot Money Cards or wire transfer funds. It’s difficult to track these types of transactions, so you will have little to no way of getting your money back. Murray says, “This guy kept going on about how many satisfied customers there are at the Senior Citizens Cash Reward Center, though he was never able to explain where they got all this
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. Montana sponsors two 529 plans through the Montana Family Education Savings Program (MFESP): The Bank Plan and the Investment Plan. Both plans offer these features: • Tax-advantaged investing • Special tax benefit for Montana taxpayers1 • You can enroll in either plan, regardless of where you live • You can use the assets at any eligible 2- or 4-year college, vocational/technical school, or graduate school around the country You can learn more about Montana’s plans at MontanaSaves.com. The North American Securities Administrators Association offers a plan checklist along with tips and advice at nasaa.org/2518/understandingcollege-savings-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: If 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.
money and why they could just dole it out since the reward center didn’t seem to be taking any money in. They were just giving me an award based on how well I paid my water and power and other utility bills?” These scams are perfect examples of something being too good to be true. If you keep your guard up, you will keep your money safe. MSN
Gifts that Keep on Giving – College Savings And Leave A Lasting Legacy
MSN
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FEBRUARY/MARCH 2015
MONTANA SENIOR NEWS PAGE 57
Planning Ahead – Charitable Giving Can Support Your Values
By Randi Regli Rudd & Company, PLLC Charitable giving can make the world a better place for our children and future generations. Moreover, well-structured charitable gifts can provide benefits to the causes you care about while providing personal tax benefits. Charitable contributions are frequently overlooked as they appear to be only a standard way to offset a relatively small portion of your tax liability; however, with appropriate planning and strategy, they may be able to provide you with a greater benefit. The tax code is often confusing and overwhelming but it can be used to your advantage. Standard Cash Donation – Generally, a charitable gift will allow you to take a tax deduction equal to the amount of the gift multiplied by your marginal income tax rate. For example, if you’re in the 25% tax bracket, a $100 charitable gift in 2014 could reduce your income tax bill by $25, subject to certain itemized deduction phase-out limitations. Contributions to public charities are limited to 50% of your adjusted gross income. However, this seldom becomes an issue for most individuals. Appreciated Securities – Donating stocks or other capital items that have appreciated in value since their acquisition offers two tax benefits. If the stock is held for more than one year, a deduction may be claimed for the full fair market value and the capital gain tax on the appreciation (increase from purchase price to fair market value) is avoided. If the security is held for less than one year, the deduction is limited to the purchase price. If the stock has fallen in value, the deduction is limited to the fair market value. Donation of capital gain property is limited to 30% of one’s adjusted gross income. Charitable Donation from IRAs – Recent legislation has extended the qualified charitable distribution provision for 2014. A qualified charitable distribution is a distribution from an IRA (other than an ongoing SEP or SIMPLE IRA) owned by an individual over 70½ years that is paid directly from the IRA to a qualified charity. The donor may exclude from gross income up to $100,000 in qualified charitable distributions for a year. The amount of a qualified charitable distribution is not deductible as a charitable contribution; rather, they are excluded from income. Furthermore, these distributions satisfy IRA required minimum distributions for the year. This allows the donor to avoid paying income tax on the amount distributed while also fulfilling the requirement of taking an annual distribution. Charitable Remainder Trust – If you are not ready to make a gift during your lifetime, another option to consider is establishing a charitable remainder trust. A contribution can be made to the trust at any time and the assets will go to a charity of your choice after your death. However, you will retain income from the donated asset during the remainder of your lifetime! You are still permitted to take an income-tax deduction for the years in which you make donations to the trust. Charitable remainder trusts can also allow you to sell highly appreciated assets free of capital
Help Aspiring Students Build Tomorrow’s World For many, earning a degree signifies a better life. Students tell us today that scholarships often make the difference in their ability to attend college and attain their degrees. An education from Montana State University Billings is the one thing that can’t be taken away from our alumni. The strength of Montana State University Billings (MSUB) relies on our dedicated faculty and staff, diligent students, and supportive alumni and friends. It’s a strength demonstrated daily, both on and off campus. Our alumni are pleased with their education and employers are vocal about the quality of our graduates and the contributions they make in the workplace. You add to our strength when you choose to support MSU Billings through donations that fund scholarships, faculty enrichment, and program enhancements. What if the cure for cancer is inside the brain of someone who couldn’t afford an education? Help aspiring students earn their college degree and improve their lives. Watch your investment grow in the form of successful graduate leaders. Make a difference NOW by giving your tax-deductible gift, of any size, to Montana State University Billings Foundation. If you have questions or need more information, contact the MSUB Foundation at 888-430-6782. MSN
gains tax. Once the property is contributed to the trust, the trustee will sell the appreciated asset at fair market value and reinvest the proceeds in incomeproducing assets such as bonds. The trust will then pay you the income from such investments. Upon your death, the remaining trust assets will be distributed to the charities you have selected. Plan Ahead – The tax law is structured to encourage giving; and, there are ways to maximize the tax benefits of doing so. When considering whether to make a charitable donation, it is important to take an approach that will provide the maximum tax benefit for your donation. Furthermore, it is important to have someone you trust help you in the planning process whether it is an attorney, financial advisor, or accountant. Charitable giving is truly a win-win for all parties involved. MSN
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PAGE 58 MONTANA SENIOR NEWS
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2015
It is interesting that as fast as technological advances arrive there are elements of this progress that are not progress at all. It is as though the developers forgot the basics as they moved toward the cutting edge. For example, how has the movie viewing experience been enhanced with high-resolution video and seven-channel surround audio if the dialogue is unintelligible? Why is it necessary for the crash and bang of special effects to drown out the dialogue? Of course, it could be that the sound is correct and it is just our aging ears... but probably not. This issue’s winning Remember When selection is by Bill Hall, one of our regular contributors, who has addressed this issue with a bit of tonguein-cheek. Thank you, Bill.
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 Montana Senior News features the contributions deemed best by our staff. The contributor of the winning entry receives a $25 cash prize. We look forward to receiving your contributions for our April/May 2015 issue. Mail your correspondence to Montana Senior News, P.O. Box 3363, Great Falls, MT 59403; email to montsrnews@ bresnan.net; or call 1-800-672-8477 or 406-7610305. Visit us online at montanaseniornews.com.
Wizard Of Oz Never Mumbled By Bill Hall A person watching a movie set in the future would ordinarily expect state-of-the-art sound, especially dialogue that is crisp, clear, and easy for the audience to understand. Such a movie was pretty well perfected half a century ago. To this day, if you watch a DVD of The Wizard of Oz, every word of every character is as easy to understand as any other sound, song, laugh, or witch burp. You can even follow whole sentences uttered by every character. The clarity of that movie’s sound lets you follow the yellow brick road to understanding what is happening inside that film in word and song.
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That movie was made in 1939, two years after I was born and I am older than a wicked witch. The same degree of easy listening did not apply the other night to what might have been a better than average flick were it not for mumbled dialogue. The movie was Interstellar, a futuristic sci-fi story. Technically, it could have been far easier to hear and understand if today’s better sound equipment could have been used in reasonable ways, But no. Not only did the soundtrack and the sound effects frequently drown out what the actors were saying, but also some of the actors overestimated how much they could mumble and still be understood. The leading man, for instance – Mathew McConaughey could not help his incoherence. He was born with a Texas mouth. Every time he got weary in a scene, he would let his Texas lips relax completely. However, a ventriloquist could do something
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2015
like that and still be understood. Like McConaughey, a ventriloquist had better learn how to be understood with sluggish lips if he wants to thrive in show business. I think the actor may have been trying to get real and create the impression for us that he was exhausted and therefore would talk to us as if we were all lying on that bed with him as he virtually whispered his troubles to us. Nice try. But that left us unable to understand much more of what passed his Texas lips when he seemed to be saying something like “Merfle, merfle, merfle, arvindaffle spotsanada.” Apparently when your name begins with two capitalized Ms, it’s difficult not to attach that letter to every word and force your mouth into M gear. And then there was Michael Caine, a highly trained British actor who must have had years of enunciation lessons. Even he turned his dying scene into a mushy mass of inarticulated words. He sounded as if he was dying in another language and doing the audience a favor to rid it of another mumbler. Movie patrons should not have to work so hard straining to hear what is sort of being said. If that is what English sounds like when you’re dying, I am cancelling that gig. I am not leaving this mumbly world until Texas talking is cured. In truth, Caine and McConaughey have long since proven they can carry a movie, if whole conversations aren’t lost to the audience. I do not know who you blame for letting something so sloppy occur as denying the customers their full ration of intelligible words. When people go to the movies, words are more important than popcorn, especially if actors like Caine and McConaughey don’t stuff their mouths with popcorn before mumbling their soliloquies. If directors could produce an easily understood movie in 1939, they should be able to do the same in 2014 – or as some Texas actors might say, “Gaftonable fluster narda.” If you have been experiencing bouts of mumbled movies, there is a remedy. It’s an imperfect remedy because it involves staying home instead of going to a movie theater. Some movies, especially sci-fi movies, are more dazzling in a theater than the same movie on a large flat screen at home. But a movie you can understand is better than a movie mumbled. And movies at home, both on DVDs and services like Netflix, come with subtitles (which you can quickly get used to). Best of all, you rule your home theater. And that offers several advantages, not the least of which is handy bathroom breaks when required. Or as McConaughey would say, “Merfle tinkle. MSN
Shouldn’t Clever Be Rewarded? Submitted by Julie Brantley A student got a ZERO on the following exam, but his wit should have been worth something more. Q: How can a man go eight days without sleeping? A: No problem, he sleeps at night. Q: If you had three apples and four oranges in one hand and four apples and three oranges in other hand, what would you have? A: Very large hands. Q: If it took eight men ten hours to build a wall, how long would it take four men to build it? A: No time at all - the wall is already built. MSN
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Why We Have Had Funerals Since the Beginning of Time By Dr. Alan D. Wolfelt “A meaningful funeral celebration is about saying hello on the pathway to goodbye.” – Dr. Alan D. Wolfelt For thousands of years, funerals have been a means of expressing our beliefs, thoughts, and feelings about the death of someone we love. As you enter into the planning process, you may find it helpful to remind yourself why we have funerals. The funeral ceremony: • helps us acknowledge that someone we love has died; • helps us remember the person who died and encourages us to share those memories with others; • offers a time and place for us to talk about the life and death of the person who died; • provides a social support system for us and other friends and family members; • allows us to search for the meaning of life and death; and • offers continuity and hope for the living. One of the most important gifts of planning a meaningful funeral is that it helps you and your family to focus your thoughts and feelings on something positive. The funeral encourages you to think about the person who has died and to explore the meaning of their life and the ways in which they touched the lives of others. The remembering, deciding, and reflecting that takes place in the planning of the service are often an important part of the process of grief and mourning. And ultimately, this process of contemplation and discovery creates a memorable and moving funeral experience for all who attend.
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Wolfelt’s Hierarchy of the Purposes of Funerals Imagine a multi-colored triangle that depicts the many reasons we have had funerals since the beginning of time. The most practical reason is on the bottom of the pyramid, and the most spiritual and significant is at the top. Let’s talk a little bit about each layer of the pyramid. Reality When someone we love dies, we are faced with acknowledging a difficult reality. It is hard truly to accept the finality of death, but the funeral helps us begin to do so. At first, we accept it with our heads, and only over time, do we come to accept it with our hearts. Recall Funerals help us convert our relationship with the person who died from one of presence to one of memory. When we come together to share our memories, we learn things we didn’t know, and we see how the person’s life touched others. Support Funerals are social gatherings that bring together people who cared about the person who died. This reason for having funerals is especially important to remember if the person who died liked to say, “I don’t want a funeral. Don’t go to any trouble.” Funerals are in remembrance of the person who died, but they are for the living. Those who loved the person who died need and benefit from having a special time to support one another in their grief. Expression So many thoughts and feelings fill our minds and our hearts when someone we love dies. Collectively, these thoughts and feelings are what we mean by the term “grief.” In other words, grief is what’s inside us. When we express our grief – by crying, talking to others, sharing memories, taking part in a funeral ceremony – we are mourning. Mourning is grief communicated outwardly. When we grieve but do not mourn, our sadness can feel unbearable and our many other emotions can fester inside of us. Mourning helps us begin to heal. The funeral is an essential time for mourning.
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2015
Meaning Did the person I love have a good life? What is life, anyway? Why do we die? There are no simple explanations, but the funeral gives us a time and a place to hold the questions in our hearts and begin to find our way to answers that give us peace. Transcendence Funerals have a way of getting us to wake up – to think about what we truly care about and how we want to spend our precious remaining days. Ultimately, funerals help us embrace the wonder of life and death and remind us to live deeply with joy and love. Planning and attending a meaningful funeral can have a lasting and profoundly important impact on your life. I encourage you to tap into the power of ceremony on your journey to transcendence.
MONTANA SENIOR NEWS PAGE 61
About the Author Author, educator, and grief counselor Dr. Alan Wolfelt is the author of Understanding Your Grief and many other books for grief caregivers and mourners, Dr. Wolfelt is committed to helping people mourn well so they can live well and love well. Recipient of the Association of Death Education and Counseling’s Death Educator Award, Dr. Wolfelt presents workshops across the world to grieving families, funeral home staffs, and other caregivers. He also teaches training courses for bereavement caregivers and funeral home staffs at the Center for Loss and Life Transition in Fort Collins, Colorado, where he serves as Director. For more information and to order Dr. Wolfelt’s books, visit centerforloss.com. MSN
Gravesite Care When You Can’t Get There mail them to you. By Jim Miller There are literally dozens of small busiDear Savvy Senior, Do you know of any services or organizations nesses that provide gravesite care services in that provide gravesite care and decorating? My communities or regions across the U.S. To find 82-year-old mother cannot take care of Dad’s them, try contacting your nearby memorial socigrave anymore, and I don’t live nearby to do it ety or local funeral consumer alliance program (see www.funerals.org/affiliates-directory or call either. 802-865-8300 for contact information). These Need Help are volunteer groups that offer a wide range Dear Need, Depending on where your dad is buried, there of information on local funeral and cremation is a variety of places you can turn to for gravesite providers, cemeteries, and more. They may be grooming, decorating, and special care when you able to refer you to a local service if one exists. cannot get there. Here is what you should know. You can also do a search online. To do this, go Gravesite Care - As a rule, most cemeter- to any internet search engine and type in “grave ies only provide basic grounds maintenance like care services” plus your city or state. If you cannot find a local service to help you, mowing the grass and trash pickup. Special check into some national companies like Grave gravesite care is usually up to the family. But for people who have trouble getting around, or for Groomers (gravegroomers.com), which has 22 families who live a distance from their loved one’s different businesses in 12 states. Or Gravesite burial place and cannot get back very often, what Masters (gravesitemasters.com, 877-476-6687), options are available? Here are several to check. which provides a wide array of services naA good starting point is to call a friend or fam- tionwide through its nearly 200 subcontractors ily member in the area, or contact your parent’s around the U.S. The cost for most gravesite care services church or religious organization to see if they would be willing to help you. If that is not a pos- can range from $30 sibility, contact some local funeral homes or the to $50 for flower and cemetery staff where your dad is buried to see if wreath deliveries, $20 to $60 for plot groomthey offer any services or know of anyone. If you do not have any luck there, another op- ing, and $40 to $150 tion is to hire a gravesite care company. These for headstone cleaning are small, individually-owned businesses that and memorial restoraprovide services like plot maintenance including tion. Special discounts grass trimming and weeding, headstone cleaning for multiple gravesite and restoration, flower and wreath deliveries, and services and visits may more. And, so you know the work was completed also exist. or the flowers were delivered, many companies Continued on page 63 will take pictures of the gravesite and e-mail or
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Gravesite Care - continued from page 61 Savvy Tip - If you are looking to decorate your dad’s grave with fresh cut flowers or live plants, another option is to call a local florist to see if they can make a delivery directly to his
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 directors to provide you with an itemized price list of their products and services so you can choose what you want. Be sure to ask. 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, 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 at discounted prices. Another way to cut your 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 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 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. • 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 Options – There are other ways to set aside money for your funeral. You can set up a payable-on-death, or POD account at your bank, naming the person you want to handle your arrangements. 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. 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. MSN
gravesite. Many florists will accommodate this request if you provide them the cemetery location and plot number, but you probably will not get a photo verifying the delivery. 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. MSN
PAGE 64 MONTANA SENIOR NEWS
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San Antonio’s Grand Fiesta – Eleven Days Of Parties Amid Three Centuries Of History Story by Andrea Gross; photos by Irv Green It’s seven o’clock in the morning, and the San Antonio River Walk is almost empty. This is a stark contrast to last night when an estimated 200,000 folks crowded the area, cheering and waving as 40 boats – each festooned in hot, bright colors and glittering lights – cruised down the meandering waterway that bisects the city’s downtown area. People sat along the walkways that border
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the river, stood three deep on the arched bridges that span it, and applauded from the balconies of the luxury hotels that line it. After all, this was the Texas Cavaliers’ River Parade, one of the premier events of Fiesta® San Antonio, the city’s annual spring extravaganza. But now, as my husband and I board an openair boat for a 45-minute narrated breakfast cruise, there are only three boats on the river – two breakfast boats and one containing workers who are cleaning up the debris from the parade. We enjoy the quiet as our guide gives us an overview of the city’s history and Fiesta activities. “Fiesta is a major part of San Antonio,” she says, as the boat passes La Villita, the site of Night in Old San Antonio (NIOSA), one of the myriad events that take place during the elevenday party. There’s a pooch parade, a jazz band festival, and a “fun run” for costumed mini-marathoners. There’s food, a coronation, and Friday’s Battle of Flowers Parade. This event is so popular that the city literally shuts down for the day so that locals and visitors can watch as floats, bands, and smiling children make their way through the city center. Finally, on Saturday night, there’s the Fiesta Flambeau Parade, reputedly the largest illuminated night parade in the world, replete with a jewel-bedecked queen and stately king, who reign over the festivities. We’re not privy to the private parties where we could see the royal gowns up close, so we go to the Witte Museum for its annual exhibit that showcases past coronation gowns. I ask the curator how much an “average” gown costs. “Let’s just say they cost as much as a highend luxury car,” she replies. Between Fiesta events, we explore San Antonio, beginning with its most famous attraction, the Alamo, which began as a mission in 1700. However, it is remembered as a fortress, the place where Texas settlers chose certain death rather than surrendering to the overwhelming forces of Mexican General Antonio López de Santa Anna.
A little over a month after the battle of the Alamo, on April 21, 1836, other settlers inspired by their compatriots’ bravery defeated the Mexican army at the Battle of San Jacinto, thus paving the way
Visitors can see gowns worn by Fiesta queens at the Witte Museum’s annual exhibit. (Photo by Irv Green)
for the establishment of the Republic of Texas and its eventual annexation to the United States. Today the Alamo is a museum, housing exhibits that are related to its days of glory. On the first Saturday of every month, costumed actors roam the grounds depicting life during the early days of Texas.
In La Villita a craftsman carves and paints figures typical of those found in the Mexican province of Oaxaca. (Photo by Irv Green)
In addition to the Alamo, the Spaniards constructed four other missions, all of which still operate as functioning parishes and hold regular Sunday masses in both English and Spanish. The largest and most well known is Mission San José, which has been restored to its eighteenth-century splendor and houses an excellent visitor center. Two years ago the simplest way to reach these missions was by automobile, but now, due to a multi-year revitalization project, they’re also
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easily accessible by foot or bicycle. Mission Reach, an eight-mile southern extension of the San Antonio River Walk, winds through a semi-wilderness area filled with hiking and biking trails as well as portals to each of the missions that make up San Antonio National Historic Park. A three-mile northern expansion of the River Walk, aptly named Museum Reach, leads through urban areas to a newly restored area filled with trendy shops and restaurants as well as the San Antonio Museum of Art and the Witte Museum. Of course, in order to explore these areas, we have to fortify ourselves. We choose three restaurants that promise food that’s both traditional and tasty. We’re not disappointed. Guenther House, built in 1859 by the founder of Pioneer Flour Mills is as notable for its museum of millhouse memorabilia as its buttermilk biscuits. At Viola’s Ventanas, we hear tales of the owner’s mother whose home-style cooking is featured in the restaurant; and at El Machito, which reputedly has the biggest grill in Texas; we happily gorge on a mixed platter of grilled cholesterol. Chef Johnny Hernandez urges us to try one of his drinks, which are as Texassized as his grill. Why not? We lift our glasses and toast San Antonio, a city that knows how to party as it preserves its past and embraces its future. This year’s fiesta will be April 16-26, 2015. Visit visitsanantonio.com for more information. MSN
MONTANA SENIOR NEWS PAGE 65
The mural at La Tierra, a well-known restaurant in El Mercado, shows “ordinary people” interspersed with important community leaders and historic figures. (Photo by Irv Green)
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12–20 The Great Passion Play A&B Tours 13 9-Day Grand Canyon & Hoover Dam GDP Tours JUNE 2015 4–14 America the Beautiful A&B Tours 9 10-Day The Inca Empire & Amazon GDP Tours 25 9-Day National Parks GDP Tours JULY 2015 13–28 Transatlantic Crossing/England Satrom Travel & Tour 7/20- Alaska Land & Sea 8/2 Satrom Travel & Tour 21 11-Day Alaska Adventure GDP Tours
23 10-Day Classic Italy by Rail GDP Tours
22–28 England Tour with Highclere Castle Satrom Travel & Tour
30 3-Day Deadwood GDP Tours
AUGUST 2015 6–10 Winnipeg Folklorama Satrom Travel & Tour
APRIL 2015 7 7-Day Civil War Series GDP Tours 9 5-Days in New York City GDP Tours 10 11-Day Tulip Time GDP Tours 17–19 CDA–Casino Big Sky Bus Tours 4/24- Rhine River Cruise 5/4 Satrom Travel & Tour 25–26 Guys & Dolls Escape Tours MAY 2015 4 8-Day Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands GDP Tours
10 4-Day Experience the Black Hills GDP Tours SEPTEMBER 2015 7–22 Capital to Capital DC to Ottowa A&B Tours 18 6-Days Cruising the San Juan Islands GDP Tours 18 11-Day The Legendary Blue Danube GDP Tours MSN
PLAN YOUR 2015 DREAM GET-A-WAY TOURS, March 30 3-Day Deadwood Getaway Add $69 for single April 7 7-Day Civil War Series: SURRENDER AT APPOMATTOX April 9 5-Day in New York City April 10 May 4 May 6 & Sept 9 May 13 June 9 June 13 June 22 June 25 July 2 July 10 July 17 July 21
Includes Roundtrip air from Billings, Add $600 for single
11-Day Tulip Time on the Romantic Rhine and Mosel River Cruise, featuring The Netherlands including Keukenhof Gardens, Germany, France & Switzerland 8-Day Cruising Ecuador’s Galapos Islands 16-Day Heart of the British Isles Tour, featuring England Scotland, Wales and Ireland Including RT air from Billings, September 9 available 9-Day Grand Canyon & the Hoover Dam via Deluxe Motor Coach Add $270 for single
10-Day The Inca Empire and The Amazon River Cruise, featuring a full day excursion to Machu Picchu Buzzard Festival at Makoshika State Park 3-Day Deadwood Getaway Add $69 for single 9-Day National Parks and Washington State Waterways Day of Cruising at Bighorn Canyon by Lovell, WY 2-Day Visit Fort Peck Dam, tour the impressive Interpretive Center and admission to summer play at the Fort Peck Theater 2-Day Historic Virginia City, MT Add $97 for single 11-Day Alaska Adventure, featuring Seattle, the Gateway to the Pacific Northwest Including RT air from Billings
NOW! $148/ppd $1699/ppd +air $2729/ppd
$2799/ppd + air $3399/ppd + air $4740/ppd
$830/ppd $3999/ppd + air
$98/pp $148/ppd $2349/ppd + air $165/pp TBA $298/ppd
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Special Billings hotel rate for out of town travelers. For additional tours please visit our website, or call: GDP TOURS 2501 Montana Ave., Suites 15-17, Billings, MT 59101 (888) 827-1492 or (406) 256-1492 | www.gdplanners.com | lily@gdplanners.com
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From The Stock Market To Apple Rootstocks: Fred Stewart By Gail Jokerst If you are looking for a quick return on your investments, Fred Stewart has a helpful piece of advice: Don’t start your own apple orchard. This retired Certified Financial Planner (CFP) knows well of what he speaks – both of apples and money matters. Before deciding to go into the apple business Fred worked in the world of finance for over 25 years helping people make investments based on their risk tolerance. Being a professional planner, he naturally pondered well in advance what he wanted to do after retiring. “I think retirees should try to find things of interest to keep their minds going. There are lots of opportunities out there to stay mentally and physically healthy,” states Fred. “I’m doing this to keep my brain active. The orchard gives me something to do with my land and eventually the income will help pay the taxes.” Fred’s choice to grow apples on the former 7.5-acre truck garden now known as Green Bench Orchard stemmed partly from his desire to raise a low-maintenance crop and partly from his sense of scientific curiosity. “In my previous life growing up I planted tomatoes and beans in our backyard in an inner-city neighborhood of Kansas City. It was a small garden patch where I could watch things grow. However, I was more interested in growing vegetables than eating part of the natural world,” he admits. “Everyplace I’ve lived since then we have had gardens because they interest me.”
Even when serving in the Peace Corps in Liberia, he started a garden to help his 7th and 8th grade students learn more about the biology of growing plants. Upon returning stateside, Fred studied agricultural economics in Kentucky. He eventually moved back to Missoula, where he had
attended the University of Montana, to take a job with the Lolo National Forest. It was while working as a Forest Service economist that Fred enrolled in a rigorous correspondence course to become a CFP. Gradually his client list expanded to be large enough for him to make it a full-time career. Fred credits the Master Gardener Program taught through the Missoula County Extension Service as the inspiration behind his move to become an orchardist. The segment dealing with apples and pruning apple trees appealed to his scientific sense of experimentation and his path was clear from that point on. Although his trees haven’t yet matured enough for the u-pick operation, he hopes to open this autumn. Still, Fred has derived a lot of satisfaction from this project.
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“When I got started, I knew apple trees would grow here but it was a challenge to see if I could grow them without using any chemicals. I didn’t know anything about rootstocks and tried to pick a good mix. Plus I wanted semi-dwarf trees so no ladders would be required for picking.” As Fred says, “No ladders, no falls.” The varieties he eventually chose range from the well-known Honeycrisp and Spartan to the less-familiar Goodmac, Liberty, Haralson, and Wealthy. Finding hardy varieties with an appealing taste that can survive winter and mature in a staggered harvest were three of his prime concerns. Other considerations included the ability to withstand insect and disease assaults. And let’s not forget the deer. “If you’re going to be an apple farmer, especially in Montana, you have to be sure to check your gates at night,” says this voice of experience. Alas, thanks to an unlatched gate, deer nailed 39 of his initial 43 trees by nipping off the tops. “It set things back,” he admits. “But the trees did survive.” During the next three years, Fred patiently planted more trees. Today, 180 of them fill Green Bench Orchard and are expected to blossom and bear fruit in the fall. “The land clearly has good agricultural potential with a good source of irrigation water. It has prime ag soils in a suitable climate. With global warming, I think it will probably get even better,” says Fred, who plans to grow u-pick raspberries on his farm as well. Despite his educational background and fascination with science, Fred had no real-life experience when it came to growing things on several acres as opposed to backyard plots. But he is resourceful and that, he has discovered, is just as important as hands-on expertise. “I’m not a farmer or farm boy. I don’t know how to do things because of family genetics,” he explains. “Instead, I try to find people who know stuff because I don’t have the ability to know all these things.” Sometimes, Fred has sought and received the assistance he needs from other orchardists and scientists. Other times, he has preferred to fly solo and see how far he can travel on his own. “I had to figure out how to hook up equipment
with a three-point hitch to my tractor. I’m also a beginner at welding,” he confesses. “But I will figure out how to do that, too.” Although he won’t know for a few more years how successful his return on this particular investment will be, Fred does not mind the wait. “It has kept me busy. I like being outside and reading about the soil-food web and why things grow. One thing leads to another that you never expected,” he says. “Some parts of this are hard. But it’s fun. It’s different.” Green Bench Orchard is located at 4701 South Ave. W., Missoula. For more information, contact Fred at 406-549-9017 or fred@greenbenchorchard.com. MSN
MONTANA SENIOR NEWS PAGE 67
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By James Young (NAPSI) – According to the U.S. Census Bureau, homeowners spent $130 billion on remodeling projects last year. If you hope to join them anytime soon, there are a few things you will want to keep in mind. After all, a kitchen remodel can give you one of the best returns on investment as long as you know where to save and where to spend. I help homeowners who dislike their kitchens evaluate all their options, from cabinets to countertops. Here are a few tips for a kitchen renovation that’s worth the time and investment. • Play with color. You spend a lot of time in the kitchen and you want it to be an inviting, comfortable place. One way you can really spice things up and show your true personality is with paint. Go bold or lighten things up with your favorite wall color; it’s really up to you and your personal style. It’s also one of the most inexpensive things to change down the road, so don’t be afraid to go outside your comfort zone or experiment with the latest color trends. • Mix and match materials. Combining materials of different textures – such as stainless steel, concrete, and reclaimed wood – adds warmth and interest. Invest in a marble slab for baking prep
and a coordinating laminate or solid surfacing on other surfaces. This is your kitchen; get creative. • Make a statement with countertops. One place you can make a big statement is with countertops. The amount you spend on this item should account for only around 10 percent of your kitchen renovation budget. For this reason, I prefer working with Formica® brand laminate. Through the latest design and print technologies, you can get the look of granite and marble without breaking your budget. For example, the 180fx® line of laminates captures the true scale and color variation of exotic, natural surfaces but at a fraction of the cost. • Update your cabinets. While this can be a pricey endeavor, new cabinets can completely transform your kitchen. No budget to replace them completely? You can create a unique look by adding laminate to the fronts of cabinet doors and drawers. Even more simple: Update them with paint; add new hardware and you’ll be all set. For more tips on renovating and getting the best bang for your buck, visit the Knowledge section at formica.com. James Young is a licensed contractor, electrician, and TV host. MSN
How to Create a Friendly Bathroom By Jim Miller Dear Savvy Senior, What tips or products can you recommend to make a bathroom easier to use. My husband and I are looking to adapt our home for our later years and would like to start with the bathroom. What can you tell us? Aging Gracefully
Feb 27 is the Day of Action
Dear Aging, Because more accidents and injuries happen in the bathroom than any other room in the house, this is a great place to start. Here is what you should know. Small Changes – To avoid hygiene hardships as you get older; let’s start with some simple tips and a few low-cost add-ons that can make a difference in your bathroom safety and maneuverability. • Floor: To avoid slipping and tripping, get non-skid bath rugs for the floors or secure
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existing floor mats or rugs with double-sided rug tape. • Lights: The older we get the more light we need, so install the highest wattage bulbs allowed for your fixtures, and get a plug in nightlight that automatically turns on when the room gets dark. • Entrance: If the doorway into the bathroom is not wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair or walker, you can easily widen your doorways (two inches) with inexpensive offset door hinges. • Bath/shower: To make bathing safer, buy a non-slip rubber mat or put down self-stick strips on the tub/shower floor, and install grab bars for support. If you use the shower, it is a good idea to put in a shower curtain rod that screws or bolts into the wall (versus a tension-mounted rod), so that if you lose your balance and grab the shower curtain, the rod will not spring loose. Another safety precaution is to put in a water-resistant, wall-mounted phone in or near the bath/shower in case of a fall. And many people with mobility or balance problems need to shower sitting down. If this applies to you, install a hand-held, adjustable-height showerhead, and buy a portable bath/shower chair. • Toilet: Install grab bars next to the toilet too if possible, or purchase a toilet seat riser. This adds two-to-four inches of height making it easier to sit
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2015
and rise. • Faucets: If you have twist handles on the sink, bathtub, or shower faucets, replace them with lever handles. They are easier to turn, especially for those with arthritis or limited hand strength. Also be aware that it takes only 130-degree water to scald you, so turn your hot water heater down to 120 degrees, or get anti-scald devices for your faucets. Bathroom Products – If you are thinking about remodeling, there are a variety of practical and stylish products on the market that can make your bathroom more age-friendly. For bathing, prefabricated curbless showers and walk-in bathtubs are two popular options today. Curbless showers have no threshold to step over so access is a breeze and ideal for wheelchair users. Theses showers also typically come with a built-in seat, grab bars, an adjustable hand-held
showerhead, and a slip resistant textured floor. Or, if you like to take baths, a walk-in bathtub with a front door may be the way to go. You can find these products at sites like Accessible-Showers. com and Premier-Bathrooms.com. If you are interested in getting a new toilet, go with an ADA compliant comfort height toilet that is 17 inches high, versus a standard toilet that is only 15 inches. Kohler (Kohler.com) and American Standard (AmericanStandard-us.com) make a nice variety. And if you are putting in a new sink, install it at a level that reduces bending. For wheelchair access wall-mounted or pedestal sinks, or a sink built into a cabinet that is open underneath will let you roll in nice and close. And if you get a new faucet, the single lever handle style is great for those with arthritis.
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
TRUSTEES ~ PERSONAL REPRESENTIVES ~ RETIREES and ATTORNEYS “What are we going to do with all of this stuff?” A question asked by those who find themselves suddenly responsible for a family’s PERSONAL and REAL Property.
Call Marilyn Burns, CAI, MPPA of D & M Associates, LLC for a consultation in solving the problem of dispersing items to family members, selling at the highest possible price, and feeling good about doing a fair, equitable job for the Estate! Marilyn has 28 years of experience as a Master Personal Property Appraiser and Diversified Auctioneer, specializing in the On-Line Only Auction Method of Marketing. She brings the buyer and seller together through an efficient and detailed marketing process. Each Personal Property appraisal is professional, detailed and eithical. Call Marilyn Burns today for a free consultation. ~Compassionate Attention ~ Experienced ~ Fair~ Check us out at...
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MONTANA SENIOR NEWS PAGE 69
Savvy Tips: For more information on home modification tips, visit aarp.org/families/home_design/bath and Homemods.org. Also contact your nearby independent living center (ilru.org, 713-5200232). These are nonprofit centers that provide modification information, and many even offer free or low-cost home assessments. Your Area Agency on Aging (800-677-1116) is also a good referral resource. 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. MSN
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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 typi-
cally 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. MSN
Buying And Selling Insights From Realtors Will Help (NAPSI) – For many people, buying a home is a goal they aspire to achieve and often the most significant financial decision they’ll make in their lives. If you’re among them, consider this advice: Given the mass amounts of information, data, and tools available, it’s critical to work with a professional who can help you make sense of it all. During the home buying or selling process, it’s wise to follow these tips: • Work with a local expert. Realtors are the most trusted resources for up-to-date, comprehensive, and accurate real estate information when it comes to navigating each step of the complex home buying or selling process. More than four out of five recent homebuyers and sellers used a real estate professional, according to the National Association of Realtors. • Learn about the area. Looking to move to a new neighborhood or retiring far away? Chances are you’re unfamiliar with some characteristics of the area, such as traffic patterns on busy streets
and the best schools or activities within the district. Realtors have a finger on the pulse of each market where they do business. They’re responsible for knowing the nuances to consider before buying a home and can leverage that expertise to help you. • Seek accurate information. Many websites offer to help potential homeowners find the perfect house. Some people have even suggested the Internet will eventually make buying a home as easy as buying an airline ticket or a stock certificate. However, consumers often complain that some of the information provided on these sites is either out of date or inaccurate, creating confusion and frustration. A realtor, on the other hand, can provide valuable counsel, discuss listings, show you homes in person, negotiate on your behalf, and help you stay focused on the emotional and financial issues that are most important. That may be one reason 88 percent of buyers in 2013 used a real estate agent, up from 69 percent in 2001. MSN
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By Jonathan J. David Dear Jonathan: I live in one state, but own a retirement home in another state. The home is in my and my husband’s names, but my husband passed away recently. I decided to keep it upon the urging of my children. Should I put my children’s names on the title with me? Jonathan Says: Since you survived your husband, you are now the sole owner of your retirement home. If at the time of your death, your retirement home is still titled just in your name alone, then an ancillary probate proceeding will need to be opened up on behalf of your estate. If you have other assets that are titled just in your name and are not assets that pass contractually to a beneficiary upon your death such as life insurance proceeds or an IRA, then those assets will also have to be probated. Adding your children’s names to the title of the retirement home
would eliminate the need for an ancillary probate proceeding because, at the time of your death, that property would no longer be owned solely by you. However, placing property in joint ownership can create problems. I recommend that you create a living trust of which you are the trustee and sole beneficiary during your lifetime, and then transfer the ownership of your retirement home to that trust. You will retain complete control of the home, but upon your death, the home will avoid probate and will pass to your beneficiaries pursuant to the trust. Because all assets do not need to be transferred to the trust to avoid probate, I recommend that you first meet with an estate planning lawyer who can review the benefits and what is involved in setting up the trust, as well as what is involved in re-titling assets, including your retirement home, to the trust for probate avoidance. Good luck. MSN
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2015
President
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