Northwest Prime Time December 2018

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CELEBRATING LIFE AFTER 50 IN THE PUGET SOUND REGION SINCE 1986

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VOL. 18 NO. 10 DECEMBER 2018

Seattle’s First Christmas

The cabin in this image is based on an early sketch of Arthur Denny's cabin at Alki Point, courtesy PEMCO Webster & Stevens Collection, Museum of History & Industry, Seattle; All Rights Reserved

…by Dorothea Nordstrand

N

ineteen-year-old David Denny and John Low had walked from the Willamette Valley in Oregon to select a place for settlement on Puget Sound, finally deciding on the point of land known to the local Natives as “Smaquamox” for their venture.

John Low took the long trail back to Oregon to bring the pioneer families, taking with him a note from David to his brother, Arthur Denny, the pioneers’ leader. The note said they had found "the place" and to come.

The landing of the Denny party on November 13, 1851 was in answer to that note.

David, an accomplished woodsman, had expected to build log cabins to house them when they arrived, but had only erected the four walls of the first one when his axe slipped and he cut a deep gash in his foot. When the party arrived on the beach, they were dismayed to find David terribly ill and shaking with fever and not even one completed dwelling to move into. There were 24 people to shelter in one small, unroofed building.

That was in the middle of November.

On Christmas Day, along with that structure – now snugly roofed – there was another, larger log house and two homes built of split-cedar boards patterned after the dwellings of the local Indians. Arthur and Mary Anne Denny and their three children, Arthur's brother David and Mary

Anne’s sister Louisa Boren lived in the larger log house. The smaller log structure housed Carson and Mary Boren and their baby daughter. John and Lydia Low, with their four children, and William and Sarah Anne Bell, with their four, occupied the two splitcedar dwellings. Charles and Lee Terry were sort of revolving guests, first living in one home and then in another.

These 24 hardy souls were the entire population of the settlers’ little village on that first Christmas.

Since Arthur and Mary Anne Denny's house was the largest, Christmas was celebrated there, with each member of the party helping with the preparations. Louisa Boren led the children into the forest to gather cedar boughs to use as decorations. They cut armfuls of Oregon grape branches, that Northwest native shrub whose stickery leaves were like the holly of their earlier home in Cherry Grove, Illinois. They fashioned a wreath for the door from the Oregon grape, and Louisa used her own red hair-ribbon to make a festive bow.

The other women cooked the feast, to which Samuel Maple and Henry

Van Asselt, two bachelors from the Christmas to celebrate in their new Collins settlement on the Duwamish, home. She had secretly tucked in, were invited guests. David Denny, among her own belongings, small toys now well and strong, provided them and trinkets to surprise and delight the with the main course, two wild geese. children on the special day.

There were salmon and wild potatoes There was good food and family purchased from the Indians. Pies and friends with whom to share it in this were made from the few dried apples new wilderness home they had come so remaining in their kitchens. There was far, and through so many hardships, to a small amount of tea for the elders, and find. It was a truly joyous Christmas that the children drank clam juice, though December 25 of 1851. v they sorely missed the milk they could Dorothea Nordstrand’s story is based on no longer have since the settlement her wide reading in Seattle’s early history. had no cow.

There had been a flurry of washing Her book about growing up in Seattle – “Pork Neck Bones, Sauerkraut and and mending and the whole company was spruce and clean. Even their shoes, Rutabagas: Memories of My Green Lake Girlhood” – is available by inquiring at which had been worn to the point of 7428EGL@gmail.com. having paper or cardboard liners, had been cobbled, so they were well-shod.

It was a far differentlooking group than it had been just a few weeks earlier.

Before they had started their westward journey along the Oregon Trail, Louisa Boren, with her wonderful gift Some of the founders of Seattle at Alki Point: (center) Arthur Denny, of forethought, (clockwise starting lower left) Carson Boren, William Bell, David Denny, Louisa Denny, Mary Anne Denny, Charles Terry. remembered This photo is from the University of Washington Libraries, Special that there Collections, submitted by Nicolette Bromberg, Special Collections Visual Materials Curator. would be a

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Paul Allen’s Gifts

Aging Gracefully

Celebrating his many contributions to Seattle and beyond

Paul Allen, photo by Beatrice de Gea, courtesy Vulcan Inc

This festive winter season brings thoughts of giving and sharing. The late Paul Allen left Seattle a richer place with his generous gifts to the community and to the world. The lifelong Seattleite died of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in October at age 65.

Paul Allen’s 1997 purchase of the Seattle Seahawks saved the team from moving to Los Angeles. He is also owner of the Portland Trailblazers basketball team and part-owner of the Seattle Sounders soccer team. His purchase of the Seahawks was instrumental in the development of CenturyLink Field. Here Paul Allen is seen waving to the “12s” during the Super Bowl parade and rally at Seattle’s CenturyLink Field in Feb 2014, courtesy Vulcan Inc.

Paul Allen’s Vulcan real estate company was instrumental in Seattle’s South Lake Union development, including Amazon’s campus—the biggest urban corporate campus in the country.

Allen’s original vision was to create a huge urban park in the area (the Seattle Commons) but voters turned down the idea. Photo courtesy Vulcan Inc

The noted philanthropist cofounded Microsoft with his childhood friend Bill Gates, making him one of the richest people on the planet. As one of the most influential people in the world, Allen’s wide-ranging interests and generous support of the community has forever altered the landscape of Seattle.

His impact to the region included investments in real estate, science, sports and music. He also gave generously to support social services and the arts in our region.

The benefits of his work to the wider world included addressing the Ebola crisis, supporting many environmental and conservation causes, research on the human brain and artificial intelligence. He assisted developing countries in expanding healthcare systems, infrastructure and diversifying economies.

Allen committed to giving away most of his wealth, and the world is a

Paul Allen was an accomplished musician and longtime fan of Jimi Hendrix. His love of music led him to develop Seattle Center’s Museum of Pop Culture, or MoPop (originally called the Experience Music Project and Science Fiction Museum)

In 1998 Allen began acquiring and preserving the iconic armor and warbirds – the last of their kind – that you can see at the Flying Heritage & Combat Armor Museum on location at Paine Field in Everett. Photo by Eric Friedebach

Employment opportunities for Seniors available in various departments full/part time

December 2018

richer place for his actions. His good works garnered him many awards and recognitions, but he was not one to seek the spotlight. He wrote, “Our net worth is ultimately defined not by dollars but rather by how well we serve others.”

Bill Gates said of his friend: “Paul wasn’t content with starting one company. He channeled his intellect and compassion into a second act focused on improving people’s lives and strengthening communities in Seattle and around the world. He was fond of saying, ‘If it has the potential to do good, then we should do it.’ That’s the kind of person he was.” His sister Jody Allen said of his passing, “My brother was a remarkable individual on every level.”

Perhaps your holiday activities and ventures into the new year will include some of Allen’s lasting legacies to our region.

Dick Van Dyke …by Geno Lawrenzi Jr.

Dick Van Dyke turns 93 this month and appears in the film “Mary Poppins Returns” premiering on December 19.

54 years ago, Van Dyke starred as Bert the chimney sweep in the original film, alongside Julie Andrews. Many didn’t realize he also played a second role, that of the grumpy old banker. Van Dyke wanted to play the second role so much he told Walt Disney he would do it for free.

“Actually, I had to give him $4000. I had to pay him to do the part!” exclaimed Van Dyke. In the new film, Van Dyke appears as the banker’s son, looking the same as he did 54 years earlier.

“I got excited, of course, that there was going to be [a sequel] and, of course, my first question was: ‘Can I be in it?’ said Van Dyke about appearing in “Mary Poppins Returns.” More than 50 years after Mary Poppins premiered, Van Dyke famously apologized for his “atrocious” cockney accent in the original film, but after all these years believes he is off the hook.

The stars of the new film, Emily Blunt and LinManuel Miranda praised Van Dyke. “He has In 1999, Paul Allen saved the iconic more energy at 92 than I ever have in my life,” Cinerama Theater in downtown Seattle said Miranda. They both declared what a joy (which opened just a year after the Seattle World’s Fair) by purchasing it and providing and inspiration it was to have him on the set. a multi-million-dollar rejuvenation.

Everyone should approach aging There are many more like actor-comedian legend Dick Van examples of Paul Allen’s Dyke, who marks his 93rd birthday on generosity to the Seattle area, December 16. He works out daily in a including the annual Seattle Art gymnasium. He also dances through Fair, Seattle’s Living Computer the local supermarket, sings ditties, Museum and Labs, the Upstream smiles at everyone and basically puts Music Fest, the Allen Institute on a happy face for the world. (dedicated to answering some He says in his book Keep Moving of the biggest questions in and Other Tips and Truths About bioscience and accelerating Aging, “If I am out shopping and research worldwide), education hear music playing in a store, I start (ApexLearning.com), investments to dance. If I want to sing, I sing. I in aerospace (Stratolaunch read books and get excited about new “Space is closer than you think”). ideas. I enjoy myself. I don’t think His generous donation to the about the way I am supposed to act at University of Washington created my age or any age.” the Paul G. Allen Center for Not that everything has gone Computer Science & Engineering perfectly for the show business continued on page 14 at the UW. v

December 2018

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This article is brought to you by AARP Washington

Age-Friendly Discussion Groups

Transportation: Building Lifelong Transportation Options …by Christina Clem, AARP Washington

For decades, many Americans have relied on a culture of cars and road infrastructure as our primary transportation option to get from one place to another. But safe, reliable and easy-to-use transportation options for people of all ages are critical to making a community age-friendly and therefore essential for optimal aging. Driver education classes can help, as can alternative travel options including ridehail companies (Uber, Lyft), buses, trains, ferries and specialized options like special needs transportation to and from medical appointments.

Cars have changed dramatically since many of us earned our first driver’s license, but there is an easy way to update your driving skills and extend your driving years.

For more than 35 years, AARP’s Smart Driver course has provided education to help drivers of any age improve their skills and become more confident behind the wheel.

When taking courses online or in person, participants learn the current rules of the road, defensive driving techniques and how to operate their vehicle more safely in today’s challenging driving environment. To locate a classroom workshop, visit www.aarp.org/ findacourse or call toll-free to 877846-3299. To register for an online course, visit www.aarpdriversafety. org/. Classroom fees are $15 for members and $20 for non-members.

Online fees are $19.95 for members and $24.95 for non-members.

No one who relies on their car wants to face the idea that they may lose their ability to drive safely as they age, but the fact is that one in five people over 65 no longer drives.

That gap in perception can be problematic when more than 80 percent of drivers never talk with their family or doctors about planning for a time when they need to give up the keys.

“On average, we outlive our driving years by a decade,” says AARP transportation researcher Jana Lynott. “We all have to educate people about some of the challenges that go hand in hand with the benefits of living longer.”

One bridge between using personal vehicles and public transportation is the increasingly Northwest Prime Time thanks the sponsors of the Age-Friendly Discussion Groups project

popular option of using services like Uber and Lyft with a smartphone.

These services are available on-demand and are easy to use. No money changes hands and specialized vehicles are available in some communities for people who need to travel with mobility equipment like a wheelchair or walker. There are also companies that help connect riders with drivers with a simple phone call. GoGoGrandparent. com provides a 24/7 service to help older adults connect with Uber and Lyft drivers for a small fee, $0.27 per minute. Families can sign up to get texts when a loved one is on the move. Riders can even add frequent locations to their account that correspond with a number on their phone keypad. No smartphone required.

Questions about the service can be answered by calling 855-4646872.

Learning how to navigate public transportation options is a great way to expand where you go and how you get there. However, navigating public transportation can be a bit unnerving for new passengers. Snohomish County’s Community Transit provides free travel training to teach riders how to use their regular route bus system. Think of it as Bus Riding 101. These services provide individual instruction, as well as group presentations. Call Community Transit in Snohomish at 425-348-2379 for more information. Reach King County Metro Transit for training at 206749-4242 and Pierce Transit is available at 253-581-8000.

If you’re over 65 or have a disability, you might qualify for a Regional Reduced Fair Permit (RRFP). The RRFP gives users access to discount fares on 15 transportation systems throughout Puget Sound, including Washington and King County

ferries, Sound Transit, King County Metro, Pierce Transit and Community Transit. Eligible riders for permanent permits include adults over 65 and persons with disabilities. The ID card costs $3.

With an RRFP, rides on Metro buses are only $1 and a monthly reduced fair pass costs $36.

Fares for other transit rides may vary. To see if you are eligible or for more information, call King County Metro at 206-553-3000.

If you are looking for other travel options in your area like rides to medical appointments or paratransit, call 2-1-1 to reach the Washington Information Network or visit them online at https://win211.org/. In Snohomish and King County, Hopelink. org is a great resource for special needs transportation. For general questions about HopeLink call their administrative office at 425-8696000. Help is also available at www. washingtoncommunitylivingconnections. org or call 855-587-0252.

Being able to move about your community determines social and civic participation; increases access to community and health services; decreases isolation; and improves overall health outcomes.

The challenges are clear when it comes to creating lifelong transportation opportunities. To be truly age-friendly, city planners need to prioritize communities over commuters. Affordable, reliable public transit is vital, as are safe sidewalks and street crossings. Simply put, members of the community must have choices that go beyond car keys.

Discussion Questions 1. What features of public transit do you currently enjoy?

What features would encourage you to use public transit more often (e.g. frequent buses, safety features)?

2. What areas would you visit if you didn’t have to drive to the destination?

3. How have transportation options improved in your community? How have they worsened?

4. How have you changed the way you drive with age? v

We Want to Hear from You! Participants in the Age-Friendly discussion talks who contact Northwest Prime Time are eligible for prize drawings.

GRAND PRIZE! The Grand Prize (awarded at the end of the year) will enjoy an exclusive Seattle-area premiere of Sy Rosen’s short film, The Matchmaker at their discussion group’s meeting place. The film is based on one of longtime Hollywood writer Sy’s Northwest Prime Time columns.

Sy will be available to speak directly to your group, answer questions about the film and his humorous take on aging.

Grand Prize winners and those selected from our monthly drawing will also receive a $100 gift card to Starbucks. No cost to participate; limit one entry per month per group – details below.

From “The Matchmaker” – a short film telling the story of Sam, who sets out to find his mother the perfect best friend at her new retirement community. The film stars TV veterans Rhea Perlman and Barbara Bain, as well as Robert Romanus and Byrna Weiss.

Don’t have your own group?

You are invited to participate in Age Friendly Seattle’s Kitchen Table Talk on Tuesday, December 18, from 1–2pm.

At event time, call 206-386-1200 (tollfree 1-844-386-1200). Or visit www. tinyurl.com/KTTdecember. Either way, when prompted, enter code 783649. For more information, visit www.seattle.gov/ agefriendly/events. For questions at other times, call 206-386-1521.

We want your feedback! We encourage groups to provide input on this project: • Snap a photo of your group and post it or any comments/questions on AARP Washington’s Facebook page at www. Facebook.com/AARPWA/ groups; • email your comments /questions to editor@northwestprimetime.com; • call Northwest Prime Time at 206-824-8600; • mail us a note: Northwest Prime Time, PO Box 13647, Seattle WA 98198.

PRIZES! Each group that contacts Northwest Prime Time by email, phone or U.S. mail will be entered to win a $100 gift card to Starbucks and will also automatically be entered to win the Grand Prize. We look forward to hearing from your group!

WINNERS OF A GIFT CARD for their participation in last month’s discussion: “We had a wonderful and lengthy discussion about aging with lots of information to share, and it felt cathartic to actually talk about issues that concerned me personally. Thank you for this opportunity to get together with old friends,” said Sharon Gilman about a gathering with her (mostly retired) educator friends.

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prepare, package and hand-deliver over Blankets of Comfort 1,000 nutritionally specific meals. The food and meals are processed from CSB’s main distribution center in Georgetown, then delivered to satellite distribution locations around the area for final delivery to clients.

Nancy is the Satellite Site Coordinator at the Bellevue …by Peter Langmaid distribution center. Every week she organizes meals Soon after for delivery and supports Shortly after Betty Young retired, moving to Seattle volunteer drivers as they she came across a local ad seeking over Labor Day 2017, prepare their deliveries.

Nancy Lockwood Here’s how the people who volunteers to make quilts for the Red Cross. Betty was interested in doing picked up a copy of work with Nancy describe something to give back. In March of Northwest Prime Time her contribution: “[She] 1996 she joined eleven other women at the grocery store keeps everything running who met every Monday to sew quilts and read an article smoothly and effectively, Nancy Lockwood, who volunteers that the South Puget Sound Chapter on volunteering that as a Satellite Site Coordinator with puts people at ease and of the American Red Cross would listed RSVP (Retired Chicken Soup Brigade, is pictured on really seems to enjoy the right. Jeannine Liston (left) is a distribute to those in need of comfort & Senior Volunteer her volunteer role. We volunteer driver with the program. and warmth.

Program) as an couldn’t do it without her Picture a small room with old organization to call for and are grateful to be able sewing machines, piles of colorful volunteer opportunities. to depend on her steady presence, good After consulting with them, Nancy continued on page 14 continued on page 14 chose the Chicken Soup Photograph of the family dog, Hachiko, by Henry Sukezo Takayoshi Brigade (CSB) program at Lifelong, a community Henry Sukezo Takayoshi was an avid photographer for over 70 years. health organization Takayoshi was born in Japan in 1899, but joined his family on Bainbridge offering a wide variety of Island in 1915. The next year, Henry acquired his first camera and began a life-long interest in photography. He and his wife operated the family services for people living greenhouse business (started by his father) at Bainbridge Island’s Pleasant with chronic illnesses.

Beach until World War II, when they were forced to relocate to the internment Lifelong’s CSB program camp, Minidoka. Many of Henry's pre-World War II photographs were burned or destroyed by the photographer in 1942 when soldiers and FBI agents has been serving clients arrived to search Japanese-American families and their homes. After the across the greater Seattle war, Henry exhibited his photographs and began winning awards throughout area with nutritious food Washington and other Western states. and meals for over 30 Courtesy of the University of Washington Libraries, Special years.

Collections, submitted by Nicolette Bromberg, Special Collections Every week, staff Visual Materials Curator and over 200 volunteers

Volunteer Spotlight

Volume 18 Number 10 Northwest Prime Time is published 10 times per year and is owned and operated by Northwest Prime Time, Inc. Monthly Circulation: 50,000 Subscriptions: $20 per year.

Mailing Address: P.O. Box 13647 Seattle, Washington 98198 (206) 824-8600 Fax (206) 824-8606 www.northwestprimetime.com Publishers: Michelle Roedell and Chris Mitchell Operations/Advertising Manager: Chris Mitchell Editor: Michelle Roedell Production Manager: Jason Reynolds Production Coordinator: Rachel Binford Associate Editor: Suzanne G. Beyer Copyeditor: Diann MacRae Administration: Barbara Davidson, Clarence Roedell, Doris Roedell, Gail Roedell Printing: Rotary Offset Press Northwest Prime Time welcomes letters and comments.

Please send to: editor@northwestprimetime.com or P.O. Box 13647 Seattle, Washington 98198 Northwest Prime Time, published 10 times per year, is for vital men and women over 50 who are curious, passionate, and engaged with the world they live in; who know that these years are the prime time of their lives.

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December 2018

Nancy Lockwood

December 2018

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Life Perspectives

F.Y.I.

Am I Too Old for Sledding?

First Day Hikes

…by Sally Breslin

I did something uncharacteristically spontaneous the other day, and all I can say is I’m happy to still be breathing as I write this.

I was walking with my two dogs out on a trail I hadn’t explored before when we came to a huge, steep hill. My first impulse was to turn around and head back home, but seeing that one of my resolutions (for about the 30th year in a row) was to try to become more physically fit, I decided to climb the hill.

My dogs bolted to the top as easily as if the hill were the size of a gopher mound, while I, huffing and wheezing, took about 15 minutes to climb only halfway up (the fact the trail was buried under six inches of snow made my climb even more gaspinducing).

What seemed like a year-anda-half later, I finally made it to the top of the hill (a.k.a. one of the Swiss Alps). As I stood there, hunched over and praying for oxygen, I spotted it – a flash of red leaning up against a tree.

It was a plastic sled…well actually, what was left of one. It was small, shaped like a rowboat, and had a yellow plastic pull-rope on it. The entire back quarter of the sled had been broken off, leaving a jagged border. The moment I saw that sled, visions of myself as a kid, wildly tobogganing down the hill behind my grandmother’s house, flashed through my mind.

I walked over to the sled, picked it up and examined it. Despite its flaws, the sled still seemed pretty sturdy. I carried it over to the trail and gently placed it on the ground at the top of the hill. Suddenly, more than anything, I wanted to jump on that sled and fly down.

“Don’t be foolish!” I said out loud, trying to dismiss the ridiculous idea from my mind. My

common sense was telling me to keep walking, to enjoy the scenery and the fresh air…to live without having to use crutches or a back brace for the next six months. But my wild, adventurous side was telling me to throw caution to the wind and take the ride of my life on that cheap slab of plastic.

Without another thought, and before I could change my mind, I plunked down on it, grabbed the rope and with my foot, gave a mighty shove. The second the sled started to move, I regretted what I’d done. In a flash, I was speeding down the hill, with both dogs in hot pursuit.

I soon discovered there were plenty of rocks underneath the snow on the path – and I could feel every one of them through the plastic.

With each bounce, the crack in the sled opened wider…and pinched me right through the seat of my pants. The trees and branches became a blur as I whizzed past them. I soon gave up trying to steer the darned sled since no matter which way I tugged on the rope or which way I leaned the sled kept going exactly where it wanted to go.

Kirk Vaux

I finally surrendered and closed my eyes. When I did, my life suddenly flashed before me: my first day of school, my first kiss, my soon-to-be first spleenectomy, performed by a tree branch.

When I hit an exceptionally big bump, I found myself wishing I had worn a sturdier bra.

That’s when one of my Rottweilers finally caught up with me and decided to jump on the sled. When she did, she knocked me off and we both rolled into a mound of snow alongside the path. The sled kept going, all the way to the bottom of the hill…where it crashed right into a big maple tree.

As I sat up and cleared the snow out of my eyes and nostrils, it occurred to me that if my dog hadn’t knocked me off the sled, I probably would have been removing my teeth from the bark of that tree at that very moment.

“I’m lucky to still be alive,” I said to my two dogs. “Whatever possessed me to do something so irresponsible?”

At that point, I burst out laughing.

I hated to admit it, but it was the most fun I’d had in a long time.

In fact, since then, I’ve seriously been considering shopping for a brand-new sled – preferably a sturdy one with good steering.

And while I’m at it, I think I also should invest in a heavy-duty sports bra. v Sally Breslin is an award-winning humor columnist and the author of “There’s a Tick in My Underwear!” Contact her at: sillysally@att.net.

Washington State Parks invites you to start off the new year with a First Day Hike on Tuesday, January 1 at State Parks across the state. “First Day Hikes are a fitting way to cap off the holidays and discover the offseason appeal of Washington’s state parks,” said Don Hoch, Director of Washington State Parks. The program is designed to offer something for every fitness level and interest. First Day Hikes will take place in a diverse and dramatic range of landscapes and historic features, including coastal beaches, islands, waterfalls, lowland forests, lighthouses, geological points of interest and more.

Washington was among the first states in the nation to participate in First Day Hikes, a nationwide initiative organized by the National Association of State Parks Directors. Currently, all 50 state park systems participate in the effort. January 1st is the first of 12 Washington State Parks “free days” taking place in 2019. Park visitors will not need to display the Discover Pass on vehicles to access state parks for the New Year’s Day activities or for other state park visits on the free days. For more information, call 360-902-8844 or visit AdventureAwaits.com (and search “First Day Hikes 2019”).

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Health Matters

Medical Minutes ...by John Schieszer

Know Your Vitamin D Levels For the holidays, give yourself a present.

Get your vitamin D levels checked – if they are low, John Schieszer get treatment. A new study now shows that vitamin D levels in the blood are linked to cardiorespiratory fitness.

“Our study shows that higher levels of vitamin D are associated with better exercise capacity,” said Dr Amr Marawan, who is an assistant professor of internal medicine at Virginia Commonwealth University in Virginia. “We also know from previous research that vitamin D has positive effects on the heart and bones. Make sure your vitamin D levels are normal to high. You can do this with diet, supplements and a sensible amount of sun exposure.”

It is well established that vitamin D is important for healthy bones but there is increasing evidence that it plays a role in other areas of the body, including the heart and muscles.

Cardiorespiratory fitness, a reliable surrogate for physical fitness,

is the ability of the heart and lungs to supply oxygen to the muscles during exercise. It is best measured as the maximal oxygen consumption during exercise, referred to as VO2 max.

People with higher cardiorespiratory fitness are healthier and live longer.

This study investigated whether people with higher levels of vitamin D in the blood have improved cardiorespiratory fitness.

The researchers looked at 1,995 participants (45% women, 49% white, 13% had high blood pressure, 4% had diabetes). Participants in the top quartile of vitamin D had a 4.3fold higher cardiorespiratory fitness than those in the bottom quartile.

The link remained significant, with a 2.9-fold strength, after adjusting for factors that could influence the association such as age, sex, race, body mass index, smoking, hypertension and diabetes.

“The relationship between higher vitamin D levels and better exercise capacity holds in men and women, across the young and middle age groups, across ethnicities – regardless of body mass index or smoking status, and whether or not participants have hypertension or diabetes,” said Dr. Marawan.

Get a Grip As we age, we may develop certain disabilities that make it difficult to walk, climb, balance or maintain our fine motor skills. In turn, these changes can affect our ability to perform routine, daily tasks.

However, experts say that it is often possible to treat these difficulties before they lead to disability.

To learn more about how and whether being strong can ward off disability, a team of researchers examined information from a study called SHARE. It involved a survey of people aged 50 and older across most European Union countries and Israel every two years. The survey collected information about health, social and economic status, and participants’ social and family networks. A total of 30,434 people participated in this survey.

The researchers examined the effects of grip strength and cognition (the ability to remember, think and make decisions) and how those affected the participants over time. The researchers learned that maintaining grip strength and protecting mental ability might prevent or delay disability.

The researchers found that older adults who perform physical and mental training may be able to slow down their physical decline and potentially prevent future problems such as the loss of independence, reduced quality of life, the likelihood of developing depression and dementia, and even death.

Copper VS Cold and Flu - the Verdict

After six years and thousands of us- an idea,” he says. “Copper should be as presents.

Mildred in Pennsylvania said, “I am ers, the verdict is clear – copper stops able to stop colds.”

So he made the first CopperZap in buying more for gifts. It stopped my sicolds and flu before they start.

People are boasting they haven’t had a 2012. It is pure copper and shaped to nus infection and a cold.”

“My husband and I love it, so we are cold for years since they started using a reach the bottom of the inner nostril at the first sign of cold or flu. giving them as gifts to our family,” said CopperZap™.

Lisa in New York.

“I just don’t get colds anyJudy Kirk in Oklahoma more the last 5 years,” said bought 12 for friends. “Some Chris in Vermont. were skeptical, but none has “I always use my Copperhad a cold or flu since.”

Zap at the first sign of a cold.

“I got 3 before Christmas The copper works every time,” last year,” said “Brownie” Grusaid Allison, a nurse who first idl. “My family laughed at me, tried it 5 years ago. but tried them and haven’t had “No colds for 2 years,” says a cold since. So I’m getting 3 Susan in Arizona, a more remore for other folks.” cent buyer.

“My sister said she bought These are just a few of thousands who don’t get colds any- Experience supports research, copper stops colds. one and it really works,” said He tested it on himself. “I used to get Connie in Texas. “So I tried it, and she’s more. Many say they’ve also stopped flu.

“I felt the flu starting, feeling achy and 2 or 3 bad colds a year,” he says, “but right.”

“A friend insisted I try it,” said Kari in all,” said Diane, a Kansas nurse. “I used with a CopperZap I haven’t had a single it 2 or 3 times that night and woke up cold in 6 years. I have stopped the flu a Connecticut. “I was a true skeptic. To my surprise it really does work. It’s far more few times, too.” feeling great.”

His company, CopperZap LLC, has powerful than I expected.”

Scientists recently discovered that Rosemary in Arizona said, “I don’t copper kills cold and flu viruses, and sold almost 20,000 so far. Over 99% of people who follow the directions say the know how it does it. It’s amazing. I went other germs, on contact. back and read your website, and it’s all “Viruses and bacteria are rapidly copper completely stops their colds.

Many also say it stops sinus trouble, true.” The website is www.CopperZap. killed by copper,” reports the American congestion, cold sores, and prevents com.

Society for Microbiology.

It has a 90-day guarantee, yet less Copper is anti-microbial, meaning colds after airline travel.

Mary Pickrell in CO said, “It opened than half a percent come back from peoit kills microbes, including viruses and bacteria, just by touch, says the National my sinus right up. It clears my conges- ple saying they didn’t work. Some of Institutes of Health. those people did not read the Directions tion. No colds since I got it.”

Tests by the EPA and university scienElaine in Maryland said, “I’ve had si- or use it right.

It costs $69.95 but you get $10 off each nus problems most of my life. I felt better tists all show the same thing. one with code NWPT8.

“Science confirms copper kills right away.”

Go to www.CopperZap.com or call “Best sleep I’ve had in years,” said angerms,” concluded Doug Cornell, Ph.D., toll-free 1-888-411-6114. other gentleman. after studying the research.

It lasts forever. Made in the USA. Many people are giving CopperZaps “The science is so strong it gave me (paid advertisement)

December 2018 How Much Protein Do You Consume a Day? Researchers are now investigating whether eating more protein may contribute to helping people maintain independence. Protein is known to slow the loss of muscle mass. Having enough muscle mass can help preserve the ability to perform daily activities and prevent disability. Older adults tend to have a lower protein intake than younger adults due to poorer health, reduced physical activity and changes in the mouth and teeth.

To learn more about protein intake and disability in older adults, a research team used data from the Newcastle 85+ Study conducted in the United Kingdom (UK). The researchers approached all people turning 85 in 2006 in two cities in the UK for participation. At the beginning of the study in 2006-2007, there were 722 participants, 60% of whom were women. The participants provided researchers with information about what they ate every day, their body weight and height measurements, their overall health assessment and their medical records.

The researchers learned that more than one-quarter (28%) of the adults over age 85 had protein intakes below the recommended dietary allowance. The researchers noted that older adults who have more chronic health conditions may also have different protein requirements.

To learn more about the health benefits of adequate protein intake in older adults, the researchers examined the impact of protein intake on the increase of disability over five years.

The researchers’ theory was that eating more protein would be associated with slower disability development in very old adults, depending on their muscle mass and muscle strength.

As it turned out, they were correct.

Participants who ate more protein at the beginning of the study were less likely to become disabled when compared to people who ate less protein. v John Schieszer is an award-winning national journalist and radio and podcast broadcaster of The Medical Minute. He can be reached at medicalminutes@gmail.com.

F.Y.I. Parkinson’s Victory Summit On December 8 from 9:30am to 3:45pm, a free symposium on Parkinson’s will take place at the Hilton Hotel in SeaTac. This will be a moving day of information and inspiration, featuring dynamic presentations from leading movement disorder neurologists and therapists from across the country.

It’s an upbeat, fast-paced event of community and connection, filled with laughter and conversation. You will leave feeling motivated and armed with tools to help you be more involved in your own treatment and to improve your quality of life. The event is free and includes complimentary lunch.

The Hilton Seattle Airport Hotel & Conference Center is located at 17620 International Blvd in SeaTac. Space is limited so register now. For more information, contact victorysummit@ dpf.org or 720-259-0905

December 2018

www.NorthwestPrimeTime.com 7

Senior Fitness Tip

Naturally Healthy

Eat Well and Be Holiday-Healthy …by Wendell Fowler

The holiday season vibe stimulates us to consume scrumptious mouthfuls of memory-laced traditional foods…like the intoxicating aroma of roasting meats, bubbling pumpkin pies, moist cakes and iced cookies that transport us back to the warm embrace of grandma’s cozy kitchen.

The sugar-drenched, stressful, sleep-deprived, sedentary, “eat and drink everything till you drop in the name of celebration season” has always been devoted to eating as much as humanly possible, ending in New Year’s Day remorse and repentance. Not to mention the 5-10 extra pounds accrued from slapping on the old feed bag of tradition. The invoice for holiday soirees will come due as we weaken our aging immune system.

Death rates from heart attacks and stroke as well as non-heartrelated causes spike during the holiday season. Researches have coined this phenomenon, “Merry Christmas Coronary and Happy New Year’s Heart Attack.” Research scientists at the pH Miracle Living Center add, “the acidic nature of the foods and liquids we eat and drink over the holiday season can tenderize our heart muscle making it weak or sluggish and thus setting the stage for a heart attack.”

Then there’s the looming potential for flu, colds, respiratory maladies or ear infections: Eating and drinking more non-healthy foods than normal weakens our immune system, opening doors to a host of nasty bacteria and viruses as we age.

Counterbalance the holiday season’s groaning board with immune system fortifying vitamin D3 and B12.

Health food grocers sell sublingual vitamins that provide rapid, costefficient absorption. Consume fresh produce (sans cheese sauce). If that’s not doable, take antioxidant supplements and food-based multivitamin with trace minerals.

Fiber prevents bloating and keeps things flowing: Sprinkle nutritious chia, hemp seed hearts or ground flax seed on each meal.

The morning after indulgent holiday get-togethers, hung over or not, start the day with an 8-ounce rehydrating glass of warm water mixed with the juice of one fresh lemon, not bottled. This will boost the struggling immune system, balance pH and aid digestion.

Lemons increase the rate of urination and purify the body as toxins are released at a faster rate, thus keeping the urinary tract clean and healthy.

You are uniquely special to friends and family who love and need you, so if you want to live longer and avoid preventable sickness and diseases, choose your holiday season foods mindfully. v

Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes

• • • • •

• 8 cups bite-size cauliflower florets (about 1 head) 4 cloves garlic, crushed and peeled ¼ cup nut milk (almond, hemp, coconut, cashew, rice) 4 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil ½ teaspoon Himalayan salt Black pepper

Place cauliflower and garlic in a steamer basket over boiling water, cover and steam until very tender.

Place cooked cauliflower and garlic in a food processor. Add olive oil, salt and pepper; pulse then process until smooth and creamy.

Transfer to serving bowl. Drizzle with the remaining 2 teaspoons oil and garnish with green onion.

Anti-inflammatory Tea for Two • 2 cups tepid water • 1 tbsp. organic ginger powder from health food store, not grocery • 1 tsp. powdered turmeric from health food store • 1/8 tsp. cayenne • 1/4 cup Bragg’s cider vinegar “with mother” (live culture) • 1 tbs. raw local honey or maple syrup (stevia is okay) • 2 large coffee mugs

Bring enough water for two tea mugs to a boil. Shut off heat. Add turmeric, ginger and cayenne. Let set for 10 minutes.

Add 3 tablespoons of Bragg’s apple cider vinegar to each cup. Keep the Braggs at room temperature. It’s alive. * Strain tea into each mug; add raw honey (alkalizing), stir to combine. * Drink warm and stir frequently because turmeric gravitates to the bottom.

Bicep Curls ...by Mark Bryant

Bicep curls can be done either standing or sitting. If you’re standing, keep your knees slightly bent and your torso upright. When using dumbbells, keep the Mark Bryant weights down by your side and slowly curl the weights up towards your shoulders and then back down again. Do not use your torso (upper body) to help with the curl by swinging. On the way back down, keep a slight bend in your elbows. While some people straighten their elbows at the bottom of the curl, I prefer you to keep a slight bend – it is important to stay in control and do the exercise slowly so you don’t hyperextend your elbows. You can also do bicep curls while sitting: use the same form as the standing bicep curl. When using a barbell to do bicep curls, use a shoulder-width grip and keep your palms facing up. Curl the weight up towards your chest and slowly (keeping control) lower the weight back down. Again, it is important to control while lowering the weight so you don’t hyperextend your elbows. Always limit the weight to what you can control while keeping good form. v Mark Bryant is a Certified Senior Fitness Instructor and radio show host

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Northwest Prime Time www.NorthwestPrimeTime.com

December 2018

Bridging the Generations …by Christina Clem, AARP Washington

On a Saturday morning at the Olympia Senior Center, Linda Terry, the founder of Sharing Teens and Elders Project (STEP) is welcoming long-time and new participants for the day’s events. Committed volunteers are putting out snacks and coffee, while sneaking in praises for Linda’s unwavering dedication to bridge generations and foster a bond between elders and a caring group of local teens.

STEP, well into its fifth year, is a perfect example of intergenerational engagement and the primary reason why the program is featured as an “Inspiring Community Connection” in the 2018 edition of AARP’s Where We Live: A Community for All Ages.

The 3rd edition in the AARP series highlights inspiring ideas and solutions from America’s local leaders to improve their communities, respond to pressing issues and build relationships. STEP has also been honored as a Program of Distinction by Generations United, dedicated to improving lives through intergenerational collaboration.

“The program has evolved beyond my original vision,” said Linda. “When we started, the gatherings were pretty structured with group activities, but as we progressed, both teens and elders expressed a desire to just talk and share stories.”

A myriad of studies tout the benefits of intergenerational

interactions for older adults as a way to decrease loneliness and isolation, a chronic and increasing phenomenon that has a marked effect on health and well-being. Older adults with opportunities for intergenerational connection report less depression, better physical health and higher degrees of life satisfaction.

What people may not know is that our younger generation is experiencing loneliness at a higher rate than older generations. A Cigna survey reported that Generation Z, born between the mid-1990s and early 2000s, have the highest score of loneliness on the UCLA loneliness scale. People scoring 43 and above are considered lonely. Generation Z had an overall score of 48.3. By comparison, baby boomers scored 42.4 and the Greatest Generation had a score of 38.6.

For teen participants, interacting with older adults is a way to disrupt the pre-conceived notions of aging.

These monthly conversations allow for personal narratives of historic moments: a time when men first landed on the moon; the rise of the civil rights movement; women’s empowerment. For some, it is about connecting current interests and broadening horizons.

Johnny LaBranche, an 18-yearold, sits with elder Bill Carey. They have more in common than meets

(left to right) Johnny LaBranche and Bill Carey met through the “Sharing Teens and Elders Project”

the eye, namely outdoor adventures.

Johnny loves the challenges of rock climbing and Bill has spent years as a whitewater river guide. A high school senior, Johnny originally joined the group to meet academic requirements, but he kept returning, making friends with the elders and other teens in his time with the program. Even those who have gone off to college return during breaks to catch up with participants.

Linda also provides space and a small stipend for young musicians to practice their art. This Saturday morning, two students are performing during the opening session and then join the conversation. The opportunity to play in front of an audience has brought some musicians back for more.

That is the case for Clio, a 14-year old guitarist and student at Olympia High. During her performance the month before, she was chatting with Bill about musical influences. Not only

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did Bill encourage her to pursue her passion, he sent her away with a list of recommended artists like jazz guitarist Wes Montgomery and “The First Lady of Song” Ella Fitzgerald.

There is no doubt that these conversations are having a positive impact on the entire group. The older adults consistently remark about a renewed hope for the future that these young adults inspire.

American cultural anthropologist Margaret Mead once said, “Connections between generations are essential for the mental health and stability of a nation.” Olympia’s STEP project and Linda’s leadership provide a real-life example of the benefits of bringing generations together for the betterment of all. v Learn more about the award-winning program at southsoundseniors.org/step, or call Linda Terry at 360-586-6181, ext.108.

and sizes are welcome. Please spread the word to your churches, organizations, friends and family and bring donations from December 3 to the 21st between the hours of 8am and 7pm. Thank you in advance for your help and generosity for those in need. Happy Holidays!

Foundation House at Northgate and their donation bin are located at 11301 3rd Ave NE in Seattle. For more information, contact Lynn Creasy at 206-361-2758 or info@ foundationhouseng.com

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December 2018

www.NorthwestPrimeTime.com 9

Money Wise

‘Tis the Season

6 Charitable and Legacy Giving Tips …by Karen Telleen-Lawton

Generosity is a cherished value for most Americans.

Charitable donations and legacy plans took a big hit in the Great Recession of 2008.

Giving has not quite recovered, but maybe I can fix that. What if I told you one key to longevity is generosity?

Studies have shown that older people who are generous tend to have better health, according to Dr. Philippe Tobler, associate professor of neuroeconomics and social neuroscience at University of Zurich. Other research from Tobler’s group supports the conclusion that spending money on others can be as effective at lowering blood pressure as medication or exercise.

Tobler says that there is a positive association between helping others and life expectancy.

“Perhaps because helping others reduces stress,” he conjectures.

This is especially good news in December, when 31% percent of annual giving occurs.

If you’ve been meaning to start or increase your support of non-profits, this is the perfect time. Charitable giving can satisfy a trifecta of goals: supporting worthwhile organizations, increasing your own satisfaction and happiness, and tax savings.

Tax-wise, it is more important than ever to plan the timing of your gifts. Since the standard deduction is now $24,000 for a married couple ($12,000 for single), you may want

to “lump” your giving. You can pre-pay your planned 2019 gifts before the end of 2018, bundling your donations and itemizing on your 2018 taxes.

Then in 2019 you can keep donations to a minimum and take the standard deduction.

High net worth individuals benefit more from tax-deductible donations because they are paying income taxes at higher marginal rates.

Interestingly, wealthy Americans reduced their donations as a percentage of income during the recession, while the poorest Americans increased their giving, according to an analysis by the Chronicle of Philanthropy.

Nevertheless, total giving by wealthy families is higher, and they have more options.

Donor advised funds (DAFs) have become an increasingly popular tool for the wealthy over the past decade. They are relatively easy to set up and operate, and have tax advantages. In a DAF, donors can set up an account, take a current charitable deduction, and decide later what organizations will receive the funds (check your own situation with your accountant). When DAFs were conceived, their convenience was expected to translate to an increase in donations, but that has not happened. Moreover, some donors are taking advantage of the opacity of DAFs to sidestep rules requiring foundations to make annual donations to charities. If this continues, I would support rule

changes to make them fair.

Here are some tips to be aware of before sending off a check.

Whether your gifts land you a name on a building or a simple email thank you, know that the satisfaction return is at least as high for those whose gifts are modest.

Focus on your goals and passions rather than the tax advantages, and your generosity will drive your longevity.

Tips for supporting your charities in 2018 1. Concentrate on causes with which you are informed.

2. Check an organization’s website to determine if their mission statement and financials correspond with your interests and priorities. Two-thirds of donors do no research before they write a check.

3. Check out organizations which rate charities: GiveWell publishes a short list each fall of a handful of non-profits that are doing the most efficient work at delving into problems that can be solved. Charity Navigator publishes a comprehensive guide, though direct comparisons can be problematic. Their standardized categories may compare apples to oranges, unfairly penalizing small organizations or ones where overhead is necessarily a larger percentage.

4. Determine an amount that is generous but still fits within your budget. Remember the flight attendant’s instruction: “Put on your own oxygen mask before

helping others.”

5. Get a receipt and/or any other documents that support a gift’s value.

6. Consider some relatively “painless” way to support good causes: payroll deductions and appreciated stock or other assets.

7. Tax-deductible donations (check with your accountant for details and exceptions): * A higher IRS standard deduction ($12,000 per person, $24,000 per married couple) has replaced the sum of donations, mortgage interest and other deductions. If practical, bunch your donations in even (or odd) years, itemizing your deductions in those years. Take the standard deduction in the “off” years. * Only donations to IRS listed 501c(3) organizations are deductible: never gifts to individuals. * If you received value for your donation (such as a meal or a gift), that must be deducted from your donation. * You can donate some or all of the Required Minimum Withdrawal from your retirement account without paying income tax (up to $100,000). * If you volunteer, your volunteer time is not deductible but expenses related to your volunteering are deductible. v Karen Telleen-Lawton is a Certified Financial Planner professional. Reach her with your questions or comments at ktl@ DecisivePath.com.

Celebrating the Art of Life at Any Age!

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December 2018

The ongoing life-affirming adventures of Rose and Dawn

The Funny Side of Life

Once More in the Does This Heart Monitor Name of Love-Part 3 Make Me Look Fat? …by Diana Couture

…by Sy Rosen

I now have a cardiologist.

Saying I have a cardiologist makes my heart race and makes me want to go see my cardiologist.

Without going into too much Sy Rosen detail, my regular doctor heard an irregular heart beat and sent me to a specialist who had a heart monitor attached to my chest. When I got home the first question I asked my wife was, “Does this heart monitor make me look fat?” She assured me it wasn’t the heart monitor that was causing this impression.

Anyway, if you’re wearing a heart monitor, the one thing you don’t want is a call from the cardiologist’s secretary saying he needs to see you first thing in the morning.

“My appointment isn’t for two weeks.

What’s wrong?” I asked.

“The doctor wants to talk to you personally,” she replied.

“Okay, but let me ask you one question. Am I dying?”

The secretary chuckled and said, “I really don’t think so.”

“I really don’t like the word think,” I replied.

That night I was very worried and started listing all the things I still wanted to do with my life (besides not dying).

Right now, a big night on the town is going to the movies with my wife, Wanda.

Anyway, here’s what I came up with: 1. I want to make 30 new friends – not Facebook friends, real friends who I can count on to come to my funeral.

2. I want to run for political office. If you think I’m too old, look at some of the politicians in Washington.

3. I want to go snowboarding, cliff diving, skateboarding, skydiving and, of course, play a heated game of dodgeball (because I loved it in elementary school).

4. I want to go to plays, concerts, art galleries and the opera (okay, forget the opera).

5. I want to be on the Supreme Court (I may have to go to law school).

6. I want to spend a week rhyming everything I say. Although it may annoy,

Plan your day, your way.

for some reason it brings me great joy. It makes me elated as previously stated.

7. Wanda and I should spend a year living in France. And wear no underpants.

Okay – I’ve got to stop rhyming.

8. I want to find a cure for a disease.

Hopefully the disease I am suffering from.

9. I want to do something completely frivolous like buying a $4,000 bottle of wine, drinking it and pretending I like it. Make it a $200 bottle of wine – I may be dying but I’m not crazy.

The next day I got to the doctor’s office an hour early and as soon as I saw him, I blurted out, “Am I dying?!”

“Not today,” he chuckled.

“Tomorrow?” I chuckled back. Yeah, there was way too much chuckling going on.

The doctor explained that my heart rate was a little fast and while I had the monitor on he just wanted to prescribe some medication to see how I reacted…

“If it was serious I would have talked to you directly on the phone.”

“So not talking to me directly was a good thing?” I asked.

“Absolutely.”

“Well I hope you never talk to me directly again,” I said.

And of course we both chuckled.

I left the doctor’s office ecstatic and knew I had to do something to celebrate.

I thought of all the things I wrote on my list and decided that tonight Wanda and I were going to the movies. v

The engagement party for Lisa and Brett was in full swing. All the partygoers were having a marvelous time with food, dancing and impromptu Karaoke. There was merriment everywhere.

Rose and Dawn took up a strategic location to keep an eye on their ‘spies,’ a few dear friends chosen to delve into Brett’s background. The questions were intended to acquire more information about his intentions towards Lisa in order to put Rose’s and Dawn’s worries to an end.

Ben came over to the girls and announced that he had innocently asked Brett where the newlyweds planned to live after their marriage.

This was a concern because Brett was from Australia. Rose and Dawn worried that Brett would spirit Lisa away from her loving family and friends to live in his homeland after they were married.

Ben assured them that Brett was so in love with Lisa that he said he would live in a lean-to, if that would make Lisa happy. The girls looked at Ben with questions in their eyes. “What in the world does that mean? Is he going to force her to live in the Outback in a tent?” Dawn asked with concern.

“Uhm…I…Uh…I thought he was declaring his love,” offered Jerry.

“I didn’t feel even a hint of a reference to life in the Outback of Australia.

He seemed a genuinely nice fella. I think you two had better accept this engagement and move on.”

With that, Ben headed for the dance floor.

“Dawnie, do you think we’re overreacting to this? I mean look at them.” The two women turned to see Lisa and Brett moving easily and happily on the dance floor while talking and laughing with others.

“Maybe you’re right, honey.

Maybe it’s the little green monster of jealousy instead of real concern for our friend’s safety,” Dawn frowned when answering.

“IF that’s the case Dawnie, I’m very disappointed in us for making this an issue. Shame on us for not sincerely celebrating

our friend’s happiness.

Let’s join the party and forget about this spying and stuff.” The girls shook hands and stepped away from their strategic spying location to enjoy themselves.

Just then their dear friend and occasional dinner date stepped up and whispered something in Rose’s ear.

Jerry had been assigned as one of the investigators and he had some news.

Rose gave a wave of her hand and said, “Thanks dear, but we’ve decided that our hunt for dirt on Brett was unfair and we’re aborting Operation Spy On Brett.”

Jerry stepped back a step and looked at the two smiling women. “Well, you might want to hear what I have to report before you make a final decision.”

The smiles quickly faded from their faces. What could Jerry possibly have found out? Dawn suggested they all three take a seat at one of the decorated tables, where Jerry nervously announced that he had heard Brett telling someone that he was planning to take Lisa on a whirlwind tour of the United States after their wedding. Rose and Dawn looked at each other. “Well, that’s called a honeymoon, Jerry, nothing to be concerned about.” Rose offered.

“He said the USA trip would precede an equally in-depth scouring of Down Under. And they just didn’t know when or WHERE they would settle down,” said Jerry.

Dawn’s eyes bulged out of her head.

“There it is, Rose. He’s planning to steal all of her money and hide her away in some far-off land where no one will ever find her again.” “Take it easy, Dawn,” Rose chided. “That scenario is a far cry from what Jerry just said. But now I’m torn between our decision to stop worrying and enjoy our friends’ happiness and calling the immigration authorities.”

The three of them had their heads together and didn’t notice Lisa and Brett standing behind them. “What’s all this seriousness on our happy day?” Lisa asked with an innocent smile on her face. “We’re having a wonderful time.

You all look so serious. Come on out on the dance floor and have some fun.”

Brett was smiling too, but it wasn’t the same genuine smile that covered Lisa’s face. Had he heard their conversation? The girls froze. v To be Continued…

December 2018

www.NorthwestPrimeTime.com 11

First initial, last name ...by Len Elliott

Across 1. Capital of Ghana 6. Resort amenity, sometimes 9. 601, to Seneca 12. Type of flush or wedding 13. Sport played on horseback 15. Bit of Brylcreem: 2 wds.

16. Grateful “Forrest Gump” actor?/ South African golfer who likes these fish in his sushi?

18. Scottish girl 19. Male offspring 20. Acid found in vinegar 21. Computer storage unit 22. Happy 23. Out of bed 25. Latin footnote word (anagram of S.A. IMPS) 28. Verizon rival 30. Killer whale 31. One’s head 33. Arthur Conan ____ 36. Erwin of old TV 37. Small eating area off the kitchen 39. Bathroom, for short 40. Word before cotta or firma 42. Close by 43. A ____ pittance (small amount) 44. WA city north of Kent 46. Ancient Greek marketplaces 48. Charybdis’ partner in a dangerous passage for ships 50. Baseball’s Slaughter 51. Jai ____ 52. Monte Carlo’s land

55. Pas’ mates 58. U.S. money: abbr.

59. Writing by baseball’s “Charlie Hustle”?/Tough guy actor involved in certain tree work?

61. Works without ____(risks injury): 2 wds.

62. Boleyn or Hathaway 63. Liquid measure in Britain 64. ____ off (anger) 65. Heavy reference work: abbr.

66. Printer producer Down 1. ____ and crafts 2. Sort of salmon 3. Blue hue 4. Tried for elective office 5. Acid neutralizer 6. Go over the limit 7. Byron or Browning, e.g.

8. “____ want for Christmas…”: 2 wds.

9. “Que Sera Sera” singer who always remembered June 6, 1944?/ Aerosmith musician who designs clothing?

10. Untouchables, e.g.

11. He penned the play “Peer Gynt” 14. Major filmdom award 15. Pigment-deficient animal 17. Shrimp dish 22. Federal property manager: abbr.

DANCING ON THE EDGE OF PROPRIETY ...by Pat D'Amico

I have been dithering about using a certain word for some time. Would it reflect poorly on a little old grandmother? This is a story about my grandmother who was the epitome of a lady in every way, a stately figure, with her gray hair swept up into a graceful bun. She was proper, gentle, kind and soft spoken…but, she had a slightly earthy sense of humor. She recited little poems, much to the delight of her giggling grandchildren.

To wit: A sigh is just a breath of air Arising from the heart.

But when it takes a downward course, It turns into a fart.

I looked into the acclaimed children’s book, The Gas We Pass, by Shinta Cho and considered it a straightforward lesson in biology. Still, could I be frowned upon by making light of a common gastric condition?

Then I came upon an idea to benefit mankind, so I’m compelled to throw caution to the wind (so to speak) and share it:

‘Tis the Season

24. Take the bus 25. Etiquette expert Emily 26. “Laugh-In” comic Johnson 27. Quick move by Golden State Warriors 3-point star?/Film director who stays away from the wind?

28. Dutch master Jan 29. Creature welfare group: abbr.

32. ____ Domini 34. Doctor Zhivago’s love 35. Festive nights before holidays 37. Wilderness man Boone, familiarly 38. State induced by hypnosis 41. Itemize again When the dinner you ate starts to generate A rather unpleasant aroma That you’d like to douse so a sleeping spouse Isn’t jolted out of a coma, An inventive mind could come up with a kind Of mattress to build, and then bally.

With charcoal and fan, one probably can

solution on page 14

43. Wall calendar pages: abbr.

45. Florida city near St. Petersburg 47. Popular search engine 48. Anwar of Egypt 49. Genetic copy 50. ____ up (became less intense) 53. “Yes ____?” (simple question): 2 wds.

54. “____ But the Brave” (WWII film) 55. “Welcome” items 56. Bushy hairdo 57. World War II rifle 60. Tear Produce a flatulence alley.

A straight corridor from the bed to the floor To dispel any indiscretions.

The fumes would be sent to harmlessly vent And eliminate human transgressions.

Forgive me if I’ve offended anyone and I hope you’re chuckling, Grandma.

d

Merry Christmas

answers on page 14

...by Len Elliott

The answer to each clue contains the name of a season.

1. Shakespeare play.

2. Zany comic who played Mork and Mindy’s “child.”

3. American music arranger and composer, whose last name sounds like he would like to stop a particular season.

4. Breath Savers flavoring.

5. December 21st this year.

From your friends at: Active Retirement Living

206-243-0300

www.boulevardparkplace.com

12

Northwest Prime Time www.NorthwestPrimeTime.com

Scenes from Childhood

Writing Corner

My ‘Store-Boughten’ Christmas

Friends …by Ariele M. Huff

Fighting tears, I went back through the other stores, wishing All my I’d never seen the monkey bank.

Christmases are Did God in His mercy have special, yet the one I compassion on a heartbroken remember best is my child? Did He guide my dragging first ‘store-boughten’ footsteps into a different aisle Christmas. and cause me to glance up? I I was born don’t know. Just that through in Darrington, my misery I spied a collection Washington in 1935. of bandannas like the ones Dad Money was scarce. used for handkerchiefs in his My two brothers and woods work.

I made simple gifts for A sign above the display one another and our read: Bandannas. Twenty-one parents. Gas rationing cents.

Colleen Reece as a young girl ended after World “May I help you?” the clerk War II, and our family asked. was able to go on a shopping trip instead of “A-a n-navy blue b-bandanna, please,” I relying on hand-made gifts or mail orders. stuttered. I gave her my third precious quarter.

My fingers curled inside my shabby She counted out the change. I raced back to mittens. My heart pounded. The tall buildings the other store, pursued by fear. What if the I gaped at on our rare visits to Everett, fifty monkey bank had been sold? Relief left me miles from the tiny town where I was born, weak when the same monkey-face smiled lost their charm. Thee five-and-dime stores in at me. I counted out the last of my silver the same block beckoned me. hoard—and four dull pennies.

My sweaty hands clutched a fortune.

Christmas came. My parents and brothers Four quarters to purchase gifts for my family. loved their gifts from me—Randy most of It had taken weeks of washing windows and all. Relatives gave him a few pennies. He scrubbing cupboards to save a whole dollar, laughed and clapped his hands each time the but the excitement of giving ‘store-boughten’ monkey tipped his hat. I can’t remember what gifts removed the temptation to spend money I received, just the joy in my family’s faces on myself. and how glad and proud I felt. I had given a I wandered the glittering aisles of the first dollar— everything I had—but received a five-and-dime. Mom’s gift proved easy, the wealth of happiness. first artificial Christmas corsage I’d seen. I Now, more than seventy years later, my looked at the price and inwardly cheered. Four immediate family members have been called quarters divided by four gifts meant twentyhome to Heaven. Yet every time I see a five cents each, the price of the corsage. snowflake or go Christmas shopping, I relive I don’t remember what I found for my the day when my childish heart broke. I still older brother, but it also cost a quarter. I picture my tear-stained self wandering up a laughed. I’d only gone through each of the previously unexplored aisle and discovering stores once, but after two hours, half my the display of twenty-one-cent bandannas. shopping was done.

Two thousand years ago, Wise Men I rounded a corner. A monkey bank with brought their best gifts to Bethlehem. Despite friendly painted grin, blue pants and a red obstacles, they kept their gaze fixed on the jacket greeted me. The jaunty creature tipped star and reached their goal. On my first ‘storehis hat when the clerk dropped in a penny. boughten’ Christmas I understood how they The perfect gift for my little brother Randy. felt. There was no star above the display of I looked at the tag. Gulped. Twenty-nine bandannas in the five-and-dime store. But cents. who is to say that a loving Heavenly Father I can’t remember a more bitter childhood did not guide my stumbling steps even as He disappointment. I never considered asking my led the Magi . . . and restore joy to a brokenfolks for four pennies. Money was still scarce. hearted little girl? v

presents:

Gloria! Renaissance and

Baroque Masterworks for Christmas Saturday, Dec. 15, 2018 • 7:30 pm • St. Luke’s Lutheran Church, Bellevue Sunday, Dec. 16, 2018 • 4:00 pm • Lake WA United Methodist, Kirkland ENRICH YOUR HOLIDAYS with the resplendent sounds of the master composers of the 16th – 18th centuries, as we celebrate the opening of our 35th anniversary season! Featuring Vivaldi’s Gloria (with organ, chamber orchestra, and soloists Natalie Ingrisano, soprano, and Melissa Plagemann, mezzo-soprano), Pergolesi’s Magnificat, and other jubilant works by Heinrich Schütz, Hans Leo Hassler, and Jan Sweelinck.

Special Senior Prices are available. For more information, please call the Chorus office at 425-522-3436, or visit www.bellevuechamberchorus.org.

Poetry Corner

…by Colleen L. Reece

BELLEVUE CHAMBER CHORUS

December 2018

Easiest. This is my holiday gift to readers who are writing about others. “Friends,” by definition, are in a relationship that relies upon good interactions to continue being so named.

A friend may make mistakes, or you may make mistakes, but the generally held opinion is that a friend is someone you trust and feel good being with—someone who likes the real you, is there for you—an Ariele M. Huff ally, a supporter and usually a confidante.

When I put together my friendship anthology, it seemed that absolutely everyone wanted to participate. Some wanted to talk about what that relationship entails, some wanted to discourse about their different kinds of chums, but most simply wanted to honor a friend—a life jewel, a star in the sky, a helping hand, a soulmate of sorts or a clown when needed.

I recommend checking out The Friendship Book at https:// www.amazon.com/dp/B077CZ4552 for some ideas about how best to tackle honoring a friend.

Other advice: 1. If you’re thinking of writing about a friend who became an enemy, don’t. This kind of thing is known to backfire. And, it never portrays the writer well. As suggested before, if you need to write it, do and then burn it with all the symbolic wrath or forgiveness or both that you can muster. Good to get stuff out.

Good to keep pitching a fit private.

2. Some of the best friend stories are like the ones in the movie Stand by Me in that those stories are of activities the author did with the friend/s. FYI—Watch that movie again for how to deliver genuine feelings about a comrade.

3. When telling about a pal, be sure to add those lovely idiosyncrasies, humorous moments and quotes, and tender moments and quotes. (Bringing in dialogue is crucial to make stories feel authentic and to give them the immediacy close to having been there.)

4. Don’t forget to give your thoughts at that time or currently too. Thoughts are done this way: I wish she was here, I thought. No need to italicize and don’t enclose thoughts in quotation marks. If you are giving frequent thoughts, the reader will get used to that and you won’t have to say “I thought” over and over. Other ways to say it are I wondered, questioned, reminisced, pondered, conjectured, speculated or marveled.

However, a long list of those through a piece would just seem tiresome.

5. Since so many people say a friend accepts them even when they aren’t perfect, an inclusion of one or more experiences like that can draw a truly endearing picture of your buddy.

6. My husband is my best friend. When I write about him I say that; however, I write about him using the rules I outlined for documenting a spouse. Dealing with tales about siblings, parents, romantic partners or children should be done from those perspectives. Friendliness can be part of those bonds, but blood and sex bring other complications. v

“SEASONS”

She moved right in, took over too.

Filled the fridge with sprouts, tofu.

Crammed the closet with her clothes.

Draped the shower with panty hose.

Loved her smile, her impish face.

Pleasured in our perfect place.

Spring spun by, the Summer flew.

Autumn came, its vibrant hue segued into Winter grays, depressing days.

And she was gone, that was that.

Cleaned out the closet and the fridge.

Left her cat.

--Yvonne Belshaw

Poems maybe edited, excerpted from, or used in Sharing Stories. Send poetry to ariele@comcast.net.

“Mall Christmastime”

One hundred shops, stocked with delights, wreaths, bows, stars, lights.

Through festooned halls, wafting yule songs, joyful smiles, excited throngs.

In center court, a towering tree— necks strain, the top to see.

Here comes Santa, red, rotund.

Bundled up tots, he’ll surely astound.

Waiting, winding lines, clerks frazzle.

Mall Christmastime—always a dazzle.

--Barbara Ruby worked at the South Hill Mall where “it was always a huge dose of Christmas.”

December 2018

www.NorthwestPrimeTime.com 13

LET’S GO! Senior Events

America’s Car Museum Daily Senior Discounts. Open 7 days a week from 10am-5pm. 877-902-8490. www.americascarmuseum.org .

Seniors Creating Art Dec 1 & 15, two-part workshop, Des Moines Library, 21620 11th Ave S, RSVP, 206-8246066.

One Warm Coat Dec 3-21, 8am-7pm, please drop-off your clean, gently used coats, scarves, hats and gloves for those in need, Foundation House at Northgate, 11301 3rd Ave NE, Seattle.

Social Security Workshop Dec 3, 4-5:30pm, updates recent changes to SS, Health Dept Auditorium, 3629 S. D St, Tacoma, 253-798-4600, free – no rsvp needed.

Parkinson’s Victory Summit Dec 8, 9:30am-3:45pm, free symposium on Parkinson’s, includes lunch, Hilton Seattle Airport Hotel & Conference Center, space is limited, RSVP victorysummit@dpf.org, 720-259-0905.

Kitchen Table Talk December 18, 1–2pm, free conversation about aging issues, at event time, call 206-386-1200 (tollfree 1-844-386-1200) or visit www. tinyurl. com/KTTdecember. Either way, when prompted, enter code 783649. For more information, visit www.seattle.gov/ agefriendly/events. For questions at other times, call 206-386-1521.

Wisdom Cafés Dec 18, 2-3:30pm, Free conversations for seniors, “Developing Resilience” Richmond Beach Library 19601 21st Ave NW, Shoreline, 206-546-3522.

Irish Tenors Holiday Concert Dec 18, 7:30pm “We Three Kings” Irish Tenors Holiday Concert at Seattle’s Benaroya Hall, benefiting the Ballard NW Senior Center. Tickets at www.benaroyahall.org, 206-215-4747.

Free Downsizing Events Kirk Vaux of Windermere and guest speaker present ins & outs of downsizing from your longtime family home, tips on sorting, packing & liquidation of possessions, 206-850-4570, visit www.kirkvaux.com for dates and locations.

A Calendar of Places to Go, Do or See…

See our full calendar at northwestprimetime.com/calendar

Community Events

One Warm Coat Dec 3-21, 8am-7pm, please drop-off your clean, gently used coats, scarves, hats and gloves for those in need, Foundation House at Northgate, 11301 3rd Ave NE, Seattle.

Visual Journaling Dec 5, 8pm, hands-on workshop, free RSVP, Richmond Beach Library, 206-546-3522.

Music for Wellness Dec 6, 6:30pm, interactive workshop to enrich your health through music, no experience needed, free, Shoreline Library, 206-362-7550.

Wreath-Making Workshop Dec 8, supplies provided but bring gloves and any special decorations, Volunteer Park Conservatory, $35-$45, RSVP 206-684-4743.

Sasquatch: Man-Ape or Myth?

Dec 8, 2pm presentation on the legendary NW icon, myth and scientific studies, White River Valley Museum, 918 “H” St SE, Auburn, free with museum admission ($2-$5) RSVP 253-2887433, www.wrvmuseum.org.

Japanese Americans in Washington Dec 14, 3pm, Mayumi Tsutakawa discusses her family’s 100 year history and the backdrop of WWII internment, Steilacoom High School Library, 54 Sentinel Dr, piercecountylibrary.org Model Train Festival Dec 21-Jan 1, the State’s largest model train layout, Washington State History Museum, 1911 Pacific Ave, Tacoma, 1-888-238-4373, www.

WashingtonHistory.org A Season for Singing Dec 28, 10:30-11:15am, free (space limited) learn about holiday traditions from around the world in this musical celebration, Shoreline Library, 345 NE 175th St, 206-362-7550.

Enchant Christmas Thru Dec 30, immersive holiday light experience, Safeco Field, www.EnchantChristmas.com Seattle’s Pacific Place Holiday Events Mon-Sat 6 & 7pm 12-minute sing-alongs, Saturdays thru Dec 24 strolling entertainment, Dec 12, 6-8pm, bring your pets (on leash or in a carrier) for a photo with Santa, Pacific Place, 600 Pine St, pacificplaceseattle.com/events

GIVE THE GIFT OF ACM MEMBERSHIP TO YOUR FAMILY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON. It’s like receiving 365 presents all at once.

Daily Senior Discount Tacoma, WA | Open 7 days a week | 10 am - 5 pm 877.902.8490 | americascarmuseum.org

First Day Hikes Jan 1, Washington State Parks ranger-led hikes and other activities, info at 360-902-8844 or www.AdventureAwaits.com (search “First Day Hikes 2019”) Call for Artists Entries accepted thru Jan 13 for NW Watercolor Society’s exhibition, cash awards, www.nwws. org/Exhibitions/Annual-International-Open Donations for Youth in Foster Care Visit www.treehouseforkids.org/holiday to learn how you can help Operation Christmas Child To learn more about joining the local team to help fill gift boxes for children, visit samaritanspurse.org/volunteerwithOCC.

Musical Theater

Tacoma Little Theatre Dec 7-30, “Scrooge the Musical” $22-$25, 210 North “I” Street, Tacoma, 253-272-2281, www. tacomalittletheatre.com Peter and the Starcatcher Thru Dec 9, Tony-winning story of Peter Pan and Captain Hook as a musical, $10-$20, Shoreline Community College Theatre, 1600 Bldg, 16101 Greenwood Ave N, Shoreline, 206-546-4728.

Disney’s The Lion King Dec 13-Jan 6, Seattle’s Paramount Theatre, 1-866-870-2717.

Hamilton!

Dec 13-15, performed by the Youth Conservatory, Stone Soup Theatre, Wallingford Presbyterian Church, 206-388-9212.

Seattle Musical Theatre Thru Dec 16, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, seattlemusicaltheatre.org Edmonds Driftwood Players Thru Dec 23, “Peter and the Starcatcher” a prequel to Peter Pan, $25-$28, James Wade Theatre, 950 Main St, Edmonds, 425-7749600, www.edmondsdriftwoodplayers.org Very Die Hard Christmas Dec 1-23, musical parody, $23-$29, Seattle Public Theatre, 7312 W Green Lake Dr N, Seattle, 206-524-1300.

Seattle Rep Thru Dec 30, “In the Heights” hit by Lin-Manuel Miranda, 206-443-2222, www.SeattleRep.org

Seattle’s Wonderland Brunch Thru Jan 27 (Sat/Sun) music, dance, theater and food, Can Can, 94 Pike Place, thecancan.com.

Choral Music

Northwest Chamber Choir Dec 2, 3pm & Dec 8, 7 :30pm Phinney Ridge Lutheran Church, 7500 Greenwood Ave N, Seattle, www.northwestchamberchorus.org Christmas Sounds Chorus Dec 8-9, 2pm, Highline Perf Arts Ctr, Burien, $20-$25; Dec 7, 7:30pm St Margaret’s Church, Bellevue $15, 206-246-6040.

Market Street Singers Dec 8, 7:30pm; Dec 9, 3pm, “More than a Silent Night” Ballard First Lutheran Church, NW corner of NW 65th & 20th in Ballard, free, Seattle Men’s Chorus Dec 9-23 (Seattle’s Benaroya Hall) Dec 8 Tacoma, Dec 15 Everett; 206-388-1400.

Master Chorus Eastside Dec 9, 3pm “Handel’s Messiah” United Methodist Church, 3924 Issaquah Pine Lake Rd, 425-392-8446, www.masterchoruseastside.org Northwest Boychoir Dec 14-23, multiple area locations, $11-$35, www.nwboychoir.org Bellevue Chamber Chorus Dec 15 at 7:30pm “Gloria! Renaissance & Baroque Masterworks for Christmas” St Luke’s Lutheran Church in Bellevue, & Dec 16 at 4pm Lake WA United Methodist Church in Kirkland; special senior prices, 425-522-3436 or www. bellevuechamberchorus.org.

Seattle Choral Company Dec 15, 8pm, pre-concert talk at 7, carol singalong 7:30pm, “December Dreams” concert 8pm, $5-$25, St Mark’s Cathedral,1245 10th Ave E, Seattle, 800-838-3006.

Free Christmas Concerts Dec 15 at 7:30pm, Dec 16 at 1pm, FREE concert plus carol singing, The Sanctuary Choir, Seattle First Baptist, 1111 Harvard Ave at Seneca, Seattle. 206-325-6051 Irish Tenors Holiday Concert Dec 18, 7:30pm “We Three Kings” Irish Tenors Holiday Concert at Seattle’s Benaroya Hall, benefiting the Ballard NW Senior Center. Tickets at www.benaroyahall.org, 206-215-4747.

14

Northwest Prime Time www.NorthwestPrimeTime.com Rare Jacob Lawrence Exhibition

Dick Van Dyke ...continued from page 2

personality. While filming Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, he suffered a serious injury on the set. His doctor told him he would be using a walker within seven years. It didn’t happen. Van Dyke also admits to being an alcoholic for 25 years, but gave it up in the 1970s. Years later he immediately quit smoking when he was told he had traces of emphysema scars in his lungs.

Van Dyke’s father died at the age of 76 of emphysema. His father was a traveling salesman but was a jackof-all-trades who played clarinet and saxophone in a band. He also played semi-pro baseball and once won a lefthanded golf tournament. His mother lived to be 96. Van Dyke’s younger brother, Jerry, was also a television star.

They enjoyed joking with each other about getting older until Jerry passed away in early 2018.

Van Dyke, who lives in Malibu, California with his wife Arlene, has four children, four grandchildren and great grands. In his retirement years, Van Dyke’s pleasures are simple. “Today I don’t really worry about anything,” he says. “It was a waste of time when I was younger and at 92, what’s the point?”

Getting older, he says, is not a prescription for acting old. His only real concern, he joked, is that he has term life insurance that expires when he turns 95. “If I live beyond that, it cuts off and there is no payout. I didn’t realize this when I took out the insurance 50 years ago. Who figures they’ll live to be 95?”

His wife, Arlene, is 46 years his junior. They are a devoted couple, happy in their marriage, and the age factor is not a consideration. His doctor says with Van Dyke’s health and attitude, he should live to see 95 and beyond. Van Dyke says, smiling, “No one expects me to go anywhere soon.”

When he was in his 20s, he gave serious consideration to becoming a minister. Instead life took him into show business, which he says is like being a minister in a way. “I make people smile and laugh and feel good about life,” he says. “That isn’t bad.”

Van Dyke says his friends in Malibu, some of them actors, want to know his secret for growing old and he answers them with a smile. “I haven’t grown up.

I play. I dance with my inner child and I do it every day. That’s my secret.” v

The Washington State History Museum in Tacoma is showing the exhibition Collections Selections: Jacob Lawrence. The centerpiece of the exhibition is a five-panel work by Lawrence that convey the story of George Bush, the first African American pioneer to settle in what is now Washington. In addition to the paintings, the exhibition includes items from the late 1800s and early 1900s that belonged to the Bush family. The exhibition will be on view through January 20, 2019.

Jacob Lawrence, No. 3. The One of America’s most renowned artists, Jacob hardest part of the journey is yet Lawrence moved from New York to Seattle in 1970 to come--the Continental Divide, stunned by the magnitude of roaring where he worked as an art professor at University rivers, 1973, casein tempera and of Washington. In the early ‘70s Lawrence was gouache, 31½ × 39½ inches, series invited by the state to paint a historical narrative piece. Collection of Washington State Historical Society. Image use about George Bush, who co-founded the state’s first permanent settlement in Tumwater. courtesy ARS.

Nancy Lockwood ...continued from page 4

humor, stellar skills and know-how.”

About half-way through our time together, Nancy told me a story that changed her outlook on food. Twenty years ago, she was in the checkout line with about a week-and-a-half supply of groceries for herself and her two growing boys. Behind her in line was a woman with two small children buying three TV

Blankets of Comfort ...continued from page 4

donated tablecloths and a group of women creating quilts. At first, they began making the quilts from stiff donated tablecloths. After struggling with the difficult fabric, they switched to softer bed sheets found at garage sales.

These dedicated women were creating over 200 warm havens a year that could be handed out as comfort and warmth to those suffering from a disaster.

Making these quilts has “provided me with the pleasure of knowing they are going to help someone,” explained Betty. She also noted that she really “enjoys the sharing and friendships that have developed over the years.”

dinners, three bananas, a box of Cheerios and a carton of milk. The contrast between her full shopping cart and this woman’s hand-to-mouth food shopping made a deep and lasting impression on her. No stranger of food delivery, Nancy has “always been interested in getting food to people who need it,” and, she says, “the need in Seattle is enormous.” ❖ To find out how you can volunteer, contact RSVP at 206.694.6786 or rsvp@solid-ground.org

In the summer, quilts pile up awaiting distribution when the weather grows cooler. Last December, volunteer Ann Cook responded to a fire in Grays Harbor and handed out one of these quilts. An adult son in a multigenerational family told her, “I am going to give this to my father. My mother made quilts and we lost them in this fire.

This is so beautiful.”

When Betty joined the group there were 12 quilters. Over the years their numbers have dwindled to three. If you would like to learn how to get involved, please contact Danielle Blume at 206348-0116 or visit www.redcross.org/ local/washington/volunteer.html. v --submitted by Diane Toomey

Gift-Giving

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vacation rentals MAUI CONDO 1Bedroom/1Bath, Sleeps 4. Discount for extended stays. Rental by Owner. Phone: 253-839-6705 email: rijvrj827@MSN. com. Get a full description, pictures, rates and availability from our web site: www.

AlohaDreamsCondo.com

special services LIFE INSURANCE POLICIES IN TROUBLE Don’t surrender or allow your policy to lapse.

If your premium has become a burden or you don’t need as much insurance, you may qualify to sell your policy for more than its cash value. If you are 70 or older with a term, universal, whole life or other policy, call us for a free evaluation. Washington Life Settlements – 425-766-3384 www. walifesettlements.com CAREGIVERS NEEDED CNAs/Home Health AIDES need apply Help our Elders and those in need receive the best in-home care. Please call M-F 9-5 206937-3100 or info@CareAtHomeSeattle. com. Open and diverse since 1992.

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more with animals than we know!

• For the youngest among us, • How to Be a Good Creature: any of local author Toni Yuly’s colorful wanted to buy/sell books are sure to please. Her Thank You Essays about what we can learn Bees is my current favorite, emphasizing WANTED from animals from the author of RECORD LP’S - REEL TO REEL TAPES - 45’S gratitude to the world around us. Toni Soul of An Octopus. For lovers ERIC 206-499-5307 retired from the King County Library of nature and others, enjoy these System a few years ago, and I always contemplations on building a ‘Tis the Season feel a personal sense of pride in her new family, coping with loss, becoming Answers to questions on page 11 career! empathetic and more. We share 1. “The Winter’s Tale” • My own sisters (shh! don’t 2. Jonathan Winters tell!) will be receiving a copy 3. Hugo Winterhalter of Beautifully Said: Quotes by 4. wintergreen Remarkable Women and Girls 5. winter solstice Designed to Make You Think. Full of inspirational quotes and miniCrossword Answers biographies of the 112 contributors, Solution for the puzzle on page 11 the introduction states that “of the millions of quotes shared every day, AMERICAN GENERAL CONTRACTORS, INC. a mere 14 percent are by women or State Licensed, Bonded and Insured # AMERIGC923B8 girls.” This volume could help shift that statistic!

• Quality Workmanship If none of these appeal, be sure to • Free Estimates call or stop by your local library for other • No Deposits suggestions. We’re here for you! v • All Work Completed ...continued from page 15

SENIOR CITIZENS

ROOFING DISCOUNTS

TS

December 2018

A+

BEFORE You Pay

SEATTLE:

KENT:

206-625-9900 253-850-5405

We do all types of Residential Roofing including Flat Roof Systems

Wendy Pender, Older Adults Program Coordinator for the King County Library System, may be reached at 425-369-3285 or wgpender@kcls.org

December 2018

The Great Outdoors

Birds of Prey …by Roger Urbaniak

On my outings I am always on the lookout for interesting wildlife sightings. Spotting birds of prey at work is high on my enjoyment list.

Once I began looking for them, it was surprising how often they appeared—whether circling the sky, stationing themselves in fields or sitting in perches to scan the countryside. They appeared to be all business, intently focused on their next meal.

If you are an active bird watcher, I suspect I will leave out many a favorite in this article but I’ll point out some of our more common birds of prey that have provided me with enjoyment.

According to Webster, birds of prey are defined as birds that feed on vertebrates. The largest North American bird of prey is the endangered California Condor, which feeds on carrion. Eagles are the largest raptors that kill their own food; the smallest is the American kestrel. The fastest is the Peregrine falcon—sometimes reaching speeds of 200-250mph.

Characteristics common among raptors are great vision, beaks capable of tearing flesh and talons to grip prey. Owls have enhanced night

83917 LC QP MC West Seattle_NW Primetime Quote Ad.indd 1

www.NorthwestPrimeTime.com 15 through October.

I’ve often seen them near Cle Elum around Exit 80 where the State Patrol dispose of road-killed animals.

Western Washington is known as a good place to Great Horned Owl, photo by Jon Nelson: www.flickr. find peregrine com/photos/jondavidnelson falcons, much to the dismay of our pigeon and vision along with an acute sense of hearing. Turkey vultures use smell as starling populations. News stations have captured them nesting on tall well as vision to locate carrion. buildings in downtown Seattle—an Eagles always turn my head when they appear. Adult bald eagles ongoing web cam captures them at one site on 3rd Avenue in Seattle. are the easiest to identify with their It’s a thrill to see them dive from white head and tail feathers, but high above to snatch a pigeon from trips to eastern Washington may the air. reveal sightings of golden eagles. My Viewing owls can be difficult as eagle sightings are reliable in areas near salmon: Yakima Canyon and the they are typically nocturnal in their feeding. Of the 19 varieties in North Skagit and Frasier rivers have decent America, most common are barn concentrations of eagles. Heading owls, barred (hoot) owls, screech north to Vancouver Island near owls and great horned owl. We have Port Hardy, we’ve sometimes seen a been fortunate to have a hoot owl hundred and more in one location. in our back yard to keep down the Eagles compete with osprey, as both mouse population, even though it birds have a passion for fish. It is a thrill to see an eagle steal a catch from has the occasional habit of tasting one of our goldfish for dessert. the smaller osprey.

For an in-depth look at raptors, Red-tailed hawks are the most widespread and common hawk. If you put a note on your bucket list to visit have a bird feeder, you may sometimes the World Center for Birds of Prey at 5668 West Flying Hawk Lane, Boise see the much smaller Cooper’s hawks Idaho. For more information, visit on the lookout for an easy meal. www.peregrinefund.org/visit or call Turkey vultures have a wide 208-362-8687. v range in Washington from February

Library Corner

Gift-Giving …by Wendy Pender

Gift-giving season is upon us!

While we may fret over finding “just the perfect thing” for our friends and family as we celebrate many different traditions, there is always one tried and true gift – books! Easy to mail, no sizing required and there is always a huge selection to choose from.

Here are a few titles that may appeal to even the hardest-to-buy-for aunt, brother, neighbor or youngster in your life.

• The Lost Words: (technically a children’s book, but oversized and with gorgeous illustrations) - 40 words related to the natural world that were dropped from the most recent edition of the Oxford Junior Dictionary.

• When the Men Were Gone: A new twist on the WWII fiction trend. In small-town Texas, a woman takes over coaching the football team when the coach enlists. Library Journal says “Readers looking for stories about decent people doing their best or a good cry won’t do much better than this heartrending read.” continued on page 14

11/15/18 1:04 PM

Northwest

Prime Time Wishes you every happiness this holiday season and throughout the coming year!

! ! e e e e e Yip

Announcing a new program for 2019 Northwest Prime Time’s

Events & Adventures for "Prime Timers" Specializing in events and outings designed for people over 50

Would you like to be on the list to be the first to receive notices?

Let us know!

• editor@NorthwestPrimeTime.com • 206-824-8600 • Or drop us a line!

Events & Adventures Northwest Prime Time PO Box 13647 Seattle, WA 98198

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