Prime42

Having the time of your life in the Inland Northwest

June - July 2013 #42

primeSPOKANE.com

Great Getaways From the mountains to the sea, we’ve got your passport to adventure

Convenience on Wheels

Modern travel trailers and motorhomes make life on the road a luxurious trip

Treatment Times Two

Alternative and traditional medicine go hand-in-hand to alleviate the symptoms of chronic illness

Art and Therapy

Master fly tyer John Newbury casts his line into calming waters

Having the time of your life in the Inland Northwest

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contents 6 8

Editor’s Letter

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The Front Porch

June / July 2013

Masthead

features

Devotion to Detail. Fly tyer John Newbury turns art into therapy; AARP Message: Affordable health insurance options; Traveling with the grandkids; Put some flexibility into your golf game with a warm-up routine; Interplayers secures their role in local theatre.

20 Great Getaways

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Got travel plans? There’s no reason to update your passport when there are endless destinations - from coastal retreats to quaint country inns and scenic lodges right out your front door.

28 You CAN Take it With You

If your perception of an RV is a one-burner propane stove, a narrow sleeping bunk and a foldout dining table, think again. Modern recreational vehicles offer all the comforts and conveniences of home - and a whole lot more.

Come Sail Away 32

Traveling by cruise ship offers a range of options from expedition-style journeys to far-off destinations to classic voyages that visit the world’s greatest cities. Your itinerary can include a wealth of activities to suit all tastes, abilities and inclinations. Doing your research ahead of time can help make for smooth sailing.

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Doubling Up on Diabetes

Alternative treatments, such as acupuncture, naturopathic medicine and herbal therapy, often go hand-in-hand with traditional medicine to give hope and relief to sufferers of chronic illness.

Family Values

With proper planning there’s no reason you can’t preserve your assets and Medicaid benefits where long-term care is concerned.

Inspiration 38

Tania Finlayson plans to travel from Seattle to Spokane to raise funds and awareness for Guide Dogs of America. The 300 mile trip wouldn’t be such a challenge if Finlayson wasn’t suffering from cerebral palsy and riding in an electric wheelchair.

About the cover There is no shortage of destinations when it comes to travel in the Pacific Northwest. From the seashore to the mountains, you have your choice of relaxing retreats and invigorating adventures. Salish Lodge & Spa (pictured on our cover) offers the best of everything in a luxurious and scenic setting.

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Having the time of your life in the Inland Northwest

JUNE - JULY 2013 #42

PRIMESPOKANE.COM

Great Getaways FROM THE MOUNTAINS TO THE SEA, WE’VE GOT YOUR PASSPORT TO ADVENTURE

Convenience on Wheels

Modern travel trailers and motorhomes make life on the road a luxurious trip

Treatment Times Two

Alternative and traditional medicine go hand-in-hand to alleviate the symptoms of chronic illness

Art and Therapy

Master fly tyer John Newbury casts his line into calming waters

June - July 2013

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editor’s

letter

By Darin Burt

Summer; it’s a trip

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e never go anywhere! When I was a kid I must have said that about a hundred times each summer.

It’s not that we never went anywhere at all, because looking back we went a lot of places. We went camping and fishing; we went to the beach and flew kites and ran in the surf; we went to the midway at the state fair and threw dimes at stacks of glasses, plates and bowls thinking we were winning expensive crystal; we went strawberry picking at a local farm where we probably ate more than we put in the carrier; we went to visit my grandparents and drank sweet tea brewed in a big jar on the back porch; we went to double feature matinees on Saturday afternoon and threw Milk Duds off the balcony at girls we knew from school; we to swim lessons at the public pool where we learned to jump into the deep end without fear; and one summer, we even went to Reno.

What I’ve learned as I’ve grown older is that travel doesn’t have to be some grand expedition to be an enjoyable adventure. Often the most memorable destinations and experiences are right around the corner, relying on you to simply have a new perspective on ordinary everyday places you’ve probably seen a hundred times before.

We’ve packed this issue of Prime Magazine with travel ideas galore to inspire you to get out there and make some new memories. Whether it’s planning a road trip in your RV or having a great time in your own backyard, the start of summer is about the endless opportunities to enjoy yourself. If your adventurous spirit calls, follow us aboard a luxury cruise ship as we set sail for ports of call in Alaska and the Caribbean. If your heart is closer to home, there are plenty of great getaways right here in our home state – from scenic mountain retreats and oceanfront resorts to quiet country inns and luxurious big city hotels.

This issue’s features include some great sit-on-your-patio reading. From recipes for a tasty and healthy cookout to new approaches for dealing with diabetes, we’ll help you feel your best and live a happier, healthier life.

For the lucky ones, summer means less responsibility and more freedom. Get out there and do something great in the next few months so you’ll have some great stories to tell. Personally, I’ve got big plans to enjoy the outdoor weather with the top down on my Jeep, squeeze in a few baseball games, and even get out of town once or twice. Hey, it might not be some grand adventure, but at least this time I’ll better appreciate the going there and the getting there. Which reminds me of a quote from Lord of the Rings, one of my favorite movies about an epic journey, “It’s a dangerous business, going out your door. You step onto the road, and, if you don’t keep your feet, there’s no telling where you might get swept off to.”

Darin Burt, Editor darin@bozzimedia.com

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June - July 2013

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Having the time of your life in the Inland Northwest

Vol. 7 Issue 3 June / July 2013

Editor Darin Burt • darin@spokanecda.com

Creative Director David Crary • david@spokanecda.com

Lead Graphic Designer Kristi Somday • kristi@spokanecda.com

Contributors Alex Ashley Jennifer LaRue Brigetta Norlander Kysa Quinn Alyssa Williams Sarah Wyatt

Business Development emily guevarra bozzi

Account Executives Cindy Guthrie • cindy@spokanecda.com Maria Alauddin • maria@spokanecda.com Jeff Richardson • jrichardson@spokanecda.com Arika Whiteaker • arika@spokanecda.com Kristi Folk • kfolk@spokanecda.com

Traffic Manager & Graphic Designer SOPHIE BENSON • ads@bozzimedia.com

Marketing and Events Director Felicity HOuston • felicity@bozzimedia.com

Let our knowledgeable and caring Medicine Shoppe pharmacists provide the expert personal care you need and much more, including: ®

Operations & Finance Manager Kim Morin • Kim@spokanecda.com

Accounts Receivable & Distribution theresa berglund • theresa@spokanecda.com

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Prime™ magazine is published by Bozzi Media Tapio Yellow Flg Bldg, Suite 209 • 104 S. Freya, Spokane, WA 99202-4866 • Phone: 509.533.5350 Prime™ magazine (ISSN 1938-5714) is distributed freely in the Inland Northwest. For distribution locations, subscription rates, or to read this month’s or previous months’ issues, visit us at www.primespokane.com.

All contents © 2013. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher.

Neither Bozzi Media nor Prime™ magazine assume responsibility for errors in content, photos or advertisements.

Reprints or web permissions: Call IPA Publishing Services at 1-800-259-0470 or email info@reprintdept.com

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Devotion to detail W

Photos by Tony Roslund

by Alex Ashley

“Other people tell me it’s an art,” says Chewelah resident John Newbury, “but I’m just a fisherman.”

Steady hands. That’s what it

takes to tie flies, and for John Newbury the art is also therapy

hen John says “art,” he is speaking of his work as one of the greatest fly tyers in the country, maybe even the world. In 2007, he was named the first inductee in the Washington State Fly Tying Hall of Fame. The next year, the Federation of Fly Fishers—encompassing more than 300 clubs in 14 countries—honored him with the Lew Jewett Memorial Life Award. The year after that: the Buz Buszek Memorial Life Award for “significant contributions to the art of fly tying.” He’s been at it for 35 years, first introduced to fly fishing by a friend in 1978.

frontPorch June - July 2013

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“For 30 of those years, I’ve had Parkinson’s disease,” John says, struggling one word at a time to explain what that has meant for him since his diagnosis in the early 1980’s while, at the time, he was working as a teacher in Colville.

John has approximately four forms of dystonia; rapid-onset dystonia Parkinsonism is just one of them.

Cervical dystonia causes his head to twist and bob; oromandibular affects his ability to speak, eat and drink; laryngeal further affects speech and voice quality; and myoclonic, which instigates rapid jerking movements in the upper body, including the arms, shoulders and neck.

This makes Newbury’s accomplishments as one of the world’s most renowned fly tiers even more incredible, since his is a skill that demands intense precision and control.

Still, he says, “it’s therapy for me. It helps me relax.”

It has also given him opportunities to utilize his skill set as an educator, teaching others at fly shops and fly fishing club seminars; he also taught a fly-fishing class at the Colville campus of the Spokane Community College.

“It should be mentioned that fly fishing is nothing like, say, bait fishing,”

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writes a friend, Aaron Bragg. “It requires specialized equipment to cast a nearly weightless ‘fly’—usually a concoction of hair, feathers and a thread wrapped around a hook—meant to mimic a native invertebrate. Twenty-six of John’s fly patterns were even featured in the 2000 edition of the Fly Pattern Encyclopedia.

When John moved to Chewelah, he built an aviary, housing 2,500 birds, to facilitate his need for feathers to make his flies realistic: 21 varieties of pheasant, and 17 species of waterfowl, along with peafowl, partridge and Merriam wild turkeys. When the birds got free during a snow storm one winter, however, and after John and his friends spent the better part of a day chasing exotic birds through town, he put the concept of the live bird aviary out to pasture.

Simply put, “John ties flies to catch more fish,” says Kim Hogan, who is the principal at Jenkins High School, and also happens to be one of John’s former students. “Others sell them and put them in a case to look at...”

Each fly is a work of carefully constructed art.

Still, John Newbury maintains: “I’m just a fisherman, and it’s all about foolin’ the fish.”

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June - July 2013

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front porch Gentlemen—Your Health Matters, Too! Get Insured, Get Screened, Get Healthy

By Nicole Duritz, Vice President, Health, AARP Education & Outreach This Father’s Day, I can’t help but think about the incredible men in my life. I have a father. He’s a terrific physician. I have a wise and talented brother. I have a wonderful husband and two amazing sons. Look, I may be a bit biased, but the one objective fact all the men in my life have in common is that they lead busy – some may say stressful – lives, compounded by the fact that they want to protect and care for their family.

I’ve noticed that these men often put other responsibilities ahead of their health and forgo doctor’s appointments. Is it any wonder, then, that men die significantly earlier than women?

Given that widowhood so frequently pushes women into poverty, do you think this is the best way to protect your family? Does this hit a nerve? I have a request for my guys and for all of you men out there: Please take the time to take care of your health.

Now before you say that you are taking care of your health – because, after all, you go to the gym sometimes – agree to these two steps: If you don’t currently have health insurance, get coverage and encourage the people in your life to do the same.

Because of the Affordable Care Act, beginning in 2014, all uninsured Americans – many of whom don’t have access to insurance through an employer – will be able to purchase insurance through health insurance marketplaces (also called exchanges). Whether you’re self-employed, between jobs or have been denied coverage, because of the ACA you will be able to shop for insurance and compare the benefits and costs of health plans side-by-side.

Think of shopping for your health coverage like shopping for a new car. All cars have the basics: wheels, an engine, brakes. Some cars are stocked up with special features – like a navigation system and heated seats. In a similar way, all of the insurance plans in the exchanges will offer a core package of benefits such as hospital, emergency, lab services and other care. Some plans will also offer other features on top of the essential benefits. As with car-buying, you want to be sure you are getting a good deal – the right deal for you and your family. When you shop in a health insurance marketplace, you can search

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for the best plan at the best price to meet your health needs, and you won’t be turned down because you have a pre-existing health condition.

In the health insurance marketplace: You’ll be able to see what your premium, deductible and out-of-pocket costs will be before you decide to enroll. You’ll also be able to see apples-to-apples comparisons of costs and coverage between health insurance plans.

Plus, depending on your income, you may be eligible for some help – tax benefits that will lower your monthly insurance premium. Information about coverage options through the marketplace will be available beginning in October 2013. Today you can visit the Health Law Guide at www.aarp.org/healthlawguide to find more about what the health law means for you and your family.

Get screened Men, once you have health insurance, there is no excuse to delay visits to the doctor. If you are 50 or older, it’s important to have an honest dialogue with your doctor, even if it touches on sensitive subjects such as prostate and colorectal health. Your doctor can recommend screenings that are right for you. Because of the ACA, most insurance plans, including Medicare, must now cover preventive benefits, such as immunizations like the flu shot, and screenings for diabetes and certain cancers. Be sure to check with your insurance plan about what preventive services are covered with no out of pocket cost to you. Remember: when you are getting a preventive medical test, you are not just doing it for yourself. You’re doing it for your family and loved ones.

The rest is up to you Taking care of your health and prolonging your life is one of the best ways you can protect and care for your family. Now that you have a lead with health insurance, the rest is up to you.

And don’t forget to eat your vegetables!

Nicole Duritz, is Vice President of Health at AARP, leads the Association’s member and consumer health education and outreach program, which includes work on issues such as Medicare, new health care law, prescription drug affordability, long-term care, prevention and wellness, and wise use of medications.

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Grand ke your tips to ma with vacation kids go d n the gra smoothly You may have heard that multi-generation travel is one of the latest trends, but some grandparents are taking it up a notch: they’re leaving the parents behind. There’s even a buzzword for the trend: Grand Travel.

Traveling without the parents may require more planning, but it offers a valuable opportunity for different generations to share their interests, make memories and get to know each other better.

Whether you’re exploring a new destination together or sharing a favorite place, we’ve rounded up some tips to get you started: Be realistic. If you want the trip to go smoothly, experts suggest setting some limits. For instance, you might not want to travel with more than one or two of your grandchildren at a time - both for supervision sake and so you can spend some quality time with the youngsters.

Some experts say the best ages to travel with grandchildren range from about 8 to 14.

After all, you want your grandchildren to be old enough to enjoy the trip, not to mention independent enough to be away from their parents.

Start with the parents. It’s all about the kids-their interests, their pace and their abilities-and parents can be a wealth of information. They can inform you about sleeping and eating schedules, any health concerns, how to handle difficult situations and what rules are expected to be followed — along with the consequences of breaking those rules.

Most grandparents foot the bill for the entire trip, but be sure to talk money with the parents early on if you plan to share some of the costs.

Start small. Not sure if your grandchildren can handle a weekend or week away from home? Experts suggest a trial run such as a day trip or overnight stay. It’s your chance to see how the kids fare without mom and dad around - and how tired you feel at the end of the day. If a few hours with your energetic grandchildren wears you out, experts suggest scaling back your itinerary so you can both get in a few naps.

Family Dentistry

Travel Think like a kid. Children function best when they know what is expected of them and when they have a familiar routine. Even on vacation, you can maintain the rules as well as the usual sleeping and meal times.

Try not to leave too early or stay up too late - it’s best to stick to their normal schedule as much as possible.

While you may want to surprise your grandchildren with an activity, experts say the trip will go more smoothly if everyone knows what is ahead.

Do your research. If it’s been a while since you’ve planned a family trip, do a little research on family-friendly destinations, activities and travel options such as cruises. Some travel companies offer family programs designed with grandparents and grandchildren in mind.

If you’re planning your own itinerary, you don’t have to limit yourself to kids’ stuff like theme parks (although Disneyland can be fun for “kids” of all ages). Many museums, galleries, parks and historic sites have programs of interest to everybody.

Allow for some downtime. You don’t have to be on the go every moment just because you’re in a new place. Reasonable bed times, naps and quiet activities can help reserve energy and prevent vacation burnout.

Settle in with a book or watch a movie or take turns watching the grandchildren while you or your partner has a nap. Some resorts and cruises offer supervised activities to give adults a break.

Set the ground rules. Your grandchildren may be facing situations with which they aren’t familiar such as airplane travel, different cultures and new activities. Take some time to discuss what behavior is expected and what to do if something goes wrong such as getting separated in a crowd.

Coordinate packing with parents.

Sometimes it’s hard enough just keeping track of our own belongings! Experts advise coordinating with parents about what to pack and who is responsible for what. Be sure to bring extra books and games to stay entertained on trains and airplanes, not to mention the backseat of the car.

One last piece of advice: phone home.

Let your grandchildren check in with their parents and share their exciting experiences.

Experts say staying in touch can help stave off homesickness, and keep parents reassured as well.

Sources: About.com: Travel, IndependentTraveler.com, TravelSense.org, US News.

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front porch

Warming up with flexibility excersises will benefit any player’s game by enhancing range of motion and helping to prevent injury

By Kathy Gildersleeve-Jensen

W

e’ve all had that kind of morning that never seems to start out right. Your alarm never goes off in the morning, you spill coffee on your new pants, you trip over the dog on the way out the door – and suddenly you only have five minutes to warm up before you tee off. You’re in a rush and bad thoughts start to enter your mind because you didn’t have a chance to hit a few balls on the range before your round.

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It’s not an uncommon theme for most amateurs – the warm-up is usually an after-thought. “If I have time for it, then sure I’ll hit a small bucket, but otherwise I’ll just hit a few putts and head to the tee.” In actuality a proper warm up should be at the top of importance because it helps prevent injuries, physically prepares you for consistent performance and helps increase flexibility.

So next time you find your self in this situation, try this quick series of stretches to get your blood flowing and muscles ready for a great round of golf.

Any good warm-up routine consists of aerobic activity before any stretching should begin. Since doing jumping-jacks or running laps is probably not an option here, a brisk walk from your car to the clubhouse and over the putting green should suffice.

Hamstrings & Hips: put your leg up on the back of your golf cart or trunk of your car. If this is not an option, then slowly try to touch your toes while bending at the waist. Keep your back flat at first, then ease down further as it arches.

The hamstrings play a vital role in your swing and your stride and loosening your hamstrings will help your lower back.

Shoulders & Upper Back: Get in your golf stance with a golf cart to your left.

Grab the vertical bar that supports the golf cart roof with both hands. As your right arm should be across your chest, lean forward to feel the stretch in your right shoulder. Repeat on the other side.

One last thing to consider before stretching – colder temperatures and earlier morning tee times increase the amount of time it takes to warm up. So make sure you give yourself enough time for a proper morning routine.

Even though a proper warm up and stretching routine can prevent injury, add flexibility, and shave strokes off your game, most people don’t take the time to do this. Perhaps it is because most people don’t think it is useful or are just plain embarrassed to do it. Either way, make sure your body is ready for your next round of golf.

Kathy Gildersleeve-Jensen is the Director of Golf Instruction at Indian Canyon Golf Course. She was recently named as a top-three finalist among 27,000 golf professionals for the 2013 PGA Teacher of the Year Award. Visit her at kgjgolf.com.

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front porch

Gluten-Free Grilling

Keep your BBQ casual, fun, and fresh with a creative menu that even your gluten-free guests will love

By Kysa Quinn

W

ith the growing amount of research linking gluten consumption to a number of serious health conditions and troublesome symptoms, more and more people are choosing a diet free of gluten.

With summer barbecue season fast approaching, the chances are at least a few of your guests will be riding this glutenfree train. No worries. Grilling is the perfect way to catch this train. Fresh meat, fish, vegetables, fruit, and potatoes are all naturally gluten-free.

For the main course, you can opt for the traditional burgers and dogs, but be sure to serve gluten-free buns and condiments.

Heinz, Best Foods, and Kraft are just a few of the well-known brands that offer gluten-free options.

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If you’re itching to try something different, how about grilled shrimp or salmon? Meat and vegetable kabobs are another delicious alternative. Just ensure that whatever sauce or marinade you use be gluten-free, as well. Many storebought brands are now labeled glutenfree or peruse the web for a variety of healthy, homemade alternatives.

Potato salad and baked beans are two additional mainstays that are easy to serve gluten-free. Or mix it up. Try a potato salad with a vinaigrette dressing versus the usual creamy, fat-laden one. Or a cold, three-bean salad instead of baked beans. Even a standard pasta salad can be made gluten-free, with the gluten-free pasta choices now available.

And what’s not to love about corn on

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the cob, baked potatoes or grilled veggies?

Healthy, fresh, and gluten-free.

For dessert, think ripe, sweet, seasonal fruit.

Watermelon. Need I say more? Or instead of grilled veggies, try grilled fruit kebobs with a honey or maple-glaze. A fruit salad with fresh cream is another tasty option.

With a few menu alterations, gluten-free and grilling really do go hand-in-hand. Try the above options or one of the myriad of gluten-free grilling recipes online, and get ready to sit back, gluten-free beer in hand, and enjoy the fruits of your labor as the sun sets, the kids run around, and laughter abounds after a successful, gluten-free summer barbecue.

For more great gluten-free recipes, visit www.udisglutenfree.com

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the front porch

The Shows Must Go On Interplayers writes a new script to secure their role in lo cal theater

photo by Don Hamilton

I

By Jennifer LaRue

n mid-April of this year, Interplayers Theatre, coming up on its 33rd season, announced its impending closure unless they could raise $150,000 by the end of May. Hackles rose a bit with “What the heck?!”

To answer your question, those involved in the theatre are artists, not bookkeepers, number crunchers or even Facebook fans but this little scare has got them lining up their ducks and they’re in it for the long haul as they always have been.

Interplayers’ pledge to audience members has always been “to entertain spirits, touch hearts, and spark imaginations” and those involved in the theatre truly believe in the benefits of live theatre to their community. “Theatre encompasses all aspects of the arts including music, set building and painting, and storytelling,” says Pamela Brown, “And it’s an essential part of a thriving city.”

Brown stepped in as Executive Director in 2011 after volunteering there for a number of years. She hasn’t been paid in a while, but is dedicated to the organization, donning many hats and working long hours. On Memorial Day she and others involved in the theatre locked themselves in a room to discuss core values, artistic dreams, and ways in which to broaden their horizon.

“The building has so much potential,” she says, “During the times performances aren’t scheduled, we’re hoping to include more art, music and poetry, group events and maybe open a retail space. The possibilities are endless.”

Before drastic changes are made, they have to meet their bills, and know that they

SUMMER SHOWS June 6­-9, Jerry Hardin as Mark Twain

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174 S. Howard St, Spokane, WA (509) 455­-7529, www.interplayerstheatre.org

June 28, A benefit event at Chateau Rive in the Flour Mill called Kick up your Heels for Interplayers that will include dancing, hors d’oeuvres, desserts, and a raffle. Tickets are $45

| | www.primespokane.com

are prepared for the next fiscal year that begins in July and the upcoming season that begins in September. As short­ staffed as they are, things don’t always get done and they openly admit mistakes in the past. Interns come and go and life happens; T’s don’t get crossed or I’s don’t get dotted. But now, they are working diligently to be strong fiscally with a more accurate and conservative budget, clearer records and new board members for fresh eyes. “Board members are very important,” Brown says, “They are conduits to the community.”

Actor, director, and local musician Jamie Flanery became a board member at Interplayers in April.

“The first board meeting I went to, they announced the need for $150,000 to remain open. We made the public announcement out of respect to our ticket holders,” Flanery says, “There’s been some mismanagement, but now we’re doing what we should have done in the past, which includes ‘pencil sharpening’ so to speak.” Pencil sharpening strategies include working on their website and having a presence on Facebook.

Perhaps they became complacent; knowing the value of theatre to the community and hanging their hat on it. The way they are looking at it now is by embracing the ideas of change and progress.

The core demographic of their audience is 65 and older, and they want to add to that by turning the theatre into something that acts more as an axis of creativity, where classic theatre is mixed with new and progressive scripts, and other ideas and mediums are welcomed.

They are quite certain they will reach their current financial goal, and are moving forward with a new and improved organization. Twenty thousand dollars of the 150 thousand was to go to citizenship fees for Interplayers’ artistic director Reed McColm (who is Canadian) but

June 20, July 18, August 15, Interplayers/Blue Door Theater Remix: Half Scripted, Half Improvised July 24­-26, 28, 31 and August 1­3, The Complete Works of William Shakespeare

they took care of that quickly, getting pro­ bono assistance from Dale A. DeFelice, an attorney who specializes in immigration law at Paine Hamblen. The theatre did not want to lose McColm who has been at the helm since 2009.

“Spokane feels like home,” McColm says.

The 2012­-13 season recently ended with Seeds of Change, a World Premiere comedy

by Spokane playwright Craig Rickett, and directed by Michael Weaver, who recently performed as the Rabbi in the national tour of Fiddler on the Roof. He has directed over 25 Interplayers productions and performed in over 70.

“To let this theatre fade after so many seasons would be a shame,” Weaver says, “Theatre civilizes. It creates community and a shared experience.”

Interplayers, the only professional theatre in the area, is seeding change. Their 2013-­14 season is set in stone and includes comedies, thrillers, dramas, and musicals and run in this order beginning September 5th: Brighton Beach Memoirs, Never the Sinner, Our Town, Barrymore, Wait Until Dark, Putting it Together, and A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

From now until the next season begins, those at Interplayers will be prepping the earth and laying their seeds, experimenting with new and hearty variations of entertainment in off­ -season events and performances planned for this summer and during “dark times”, which means between main season productions.

Oscar Wilde once said, “I regard the theatre as the greatest of all art forms; the most immediate way in which a human being can share with another the sense of what it is to be a human being.”

Those at Interplayers concur. “Theatre brings about unity and community,” says Weaver. And all involved are planning to live up to their mission by creating inspiring experiences for their community.

July 24, 27, 31, and August 3, “SuperBen!” for ages k­4 July 27, August 3, “Gay Camp” a screamingly funny Fringe NYC show

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June - July 2013

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Great Getaways

By Darin Burt

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ou don’t have to travel far from home to feel worlds away. The best part about a great escape in Washington State is that you don’t need a passport, and your itinerary of destinations is as vast as ocean beaches, scenic mountain resorts, relaxing wine tours and big city retreats. So this summer throw away your well-worn road map and sample something new. Set off in a different direction, embracing whatever comes your way. As poet Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “Life is a journey, not a destination.”

| | www.primespokane.com

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On the Waterfront The Resort at Port Ludlow Port Ludlow, Washington

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nown as the “Gateway to the Olympic Peninsula” Port Ludlow - a short ferry ride and scenic drive from Seattle - has a variety of activities available that will appeal to any traveler.

Adventure seekers can kayak, bike, or hike. Golfers can play a round on their 18-hole Championship Golf Course that Esquire magazine called “The Most Scenic in the World.”

Those looking for relaxation can charter a yacht, go whale watching, fish or simply relax in beach chairs along the pristine shores of Ludlow Bay. The Resort at Port Ludlow offers breathtaking views of Ludlow Bay, the lush tree lined coast and the magnificent Olympic Mountains beyond.

For enthusiasts of water sports there are boats and kayaks to rent, a beautiful marina, harbor tour boats and charter boats for fishing and sailing. Located a short distance to the north, is historic Port Townsend.

With these options, Port Ludlow has the conveniences of a larger community. Three entrances to the Olympic National Park starting just 15 miles to the south round out the picture of a community that offers recreation, culture, and solace in one beautiful area.

For a relaxing stay, check into the Inn at Port Ludlow, offering 37 guest rooms with fireplaces, private balconies and sitting areas, plus the free-standing Pintail House and Loft. As for dining, The Fireside restaurant will keep you well-fed with Pacific Northwest cuisine from casual to exquisite.

Offering first-class, personalized service, luxury accommodations, outdoor adventures, and a myriad of other amenities, The Resort at Port Ludlow is the perfect place to relax, rejuvenate, and indulge. www.portludlowresort.com

June - July 2013

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Scenic Tranquility Salish Lodge & Spa Snoqualmie, Washington

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alish has been a longtime Northwest favorite for those looking to leave the worries of the world behind.

Perched high above picturesque Snoqualmie Falls, historic Salish Lodge & Spa is a popular romantic getaway destination. The restaurants feature beautiful views, and the elegant spa has numerous relaxing signature treatments. Guest rooms reflect the serene mountain environment with wood-burning fireplaces and warm, earth tones. There’s a world of natural beauty just outside, but you may never want to leave your room. Take a long soak in your oversized whirlpool tub, and settle back in a luxurious bed complete with goose-down comforters and comfy pillows.

Your dining experience compliments the Northwest feel with award winning cuisine using fresh, vibrant seasonal ingredients. No meal would be complete without a great glass of vino,

| | www.primespokane.com

and Salish serves the best. Their wine list recently received the Best of Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator Magazine. How about a honey ale? The tap features a special brew mixed with honey from the lodge’s own private apiary where thousands of busy bees produce more than 2,000 pounds of golden nectar a year.

After you explore the Snoqualmie area with scenic hiking trails and championship golf, come unwind at the Spa at Salish Lodge. Rain Drop therapy, Rosemary and Mint body exfoliation, Coffee scrub, and Seaweed wrap are just a few of the relaxing treatments offered.

Your best bet is to make a weekend out of this spa destination, stay overnight at the Lodge and try out the ultimate Salish Spa experience, know as the Cascade Escape, which combines five of its signature treatments all in one package. www.salishlodge.com

Relax, Indulge and Enjoy Green Gables Inn Walla Walla, Washington

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ot every getaway has to be grand. Distinctive and intimate, Green Gables Inn is a bed & breakfast to come home to. Let the serene tree-lined streets and historic charm of this 1909 craftsman mansion rejuvenate your spirit.

Residing in the heart of Walla Walla, Green Gables is the perfect location for your next getaway.

Take a morning stroll through the historic neighborhood, or a short walk downtown to enjoy Main Street’s fine dining and quaint shops, take in the summer Shakespeare festival and taste the valleys renowned wines.

Green Gables Inn exudes the

warmth and charm you’ve been looking for in this hectic world.

Boasting historic exposed beams and beautiful period antiques, the quaint dining room is the perfect location to savor the morning’s breakfast.

Every stay includes a full gourmet breakfast thoughtfully prepared by their in-house chef.

Make a selection each morning from a continually changing menu that uses only the best local and seasonal ingredients.

Green Gables Inn is sure to become your favorite home away from home. www.greengablesinn.com

June - July 2013

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Small town, big adventure La Conner, Washington

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a Conner is often voted Washington’s most perfect getaway destination due to its annual tulip festival, art galleries, antique shops, seafood restaurants and Native culture. The town is conveniently located 60 miles north of Seattle and is accessible by car and Amtrak.

Known as both an artist enclave and a boater’s paradise, and with a decidedly coastal-community feel, La Conner has an almost magical quality that brings visitors back again and again. It’s the kind of community that many of us yearn for; charming and picturesque, with a vibrancy all its own.

Tour La Conner’s Quilt & Textile Museum, one of only 14 quilt museums in the U.S. Kayak the Swinomish Channel and go through Hole-in-the-Wall to the North Fork of the Skagit River. Enjoy the annual La Conner Classic Car and Boat Show in August.

When you’re ready to relax, La Conner Channel Lodge, the town’s only waterfront hotel, offers plush accommodations, Pacific Northwest decor, and views of Swinomish Channel from most of its 40 guest rooms.

Most of the rooms feature a private patio or balcony overlooking the water, enabling guests to drink in the tranquility of the Swinomish Channel and the beauty of Rainbow Bridge.

A flagstone entry and woodsy garden, cedar-shake siding, and a river-rock fireplace in the lobby set the regional tone for the rest of the lodge. The lobby, with its small library alcove, has a cozy maritime feel, and each Friday and Saturday evening is the site of the resort’s complimentary wine and cheese reception with live piano music. www.townoflaconner.org

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| | www.primespokane.com

Restoring your smile's natural frame with the New "Facelift" Dentures There are three types of dentures available in today's market: Economy Dentures Traditional Dentures Facelift Dentures

Economy dentures are the least expensive choice. They are sometimes referred to as the "one-size-fits-all" denture.

Traditional Dentures are the type of dentures that most general dentists make. They will usually fit better and look better than an economy denture.

Facelift dentures are the newest, most customized dentures available utilizing the principles of Neuromuscular Dentistry. Even though they are the most expensive, they offer the best fit, function, comfort, and esthetics.

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When a person first gets their dentures made, their face (or picture frame) is as big as it's going to get.

As time goes by, their teeth wear out, the jaw keeps closing up and their face continues to collapse between the nose and chin (that's the picture frame getting smaller). With Traditional Dentures, new teeth can now be made but in an "older looking face" (that smaller picture frame).

Facelift dentures not only create warm, natural looking teeth, they enlarge the picture frame back to where it was before they lost their natural teeth.

Call today for a FREE CONSULTATION to ask,

"What are my possibilities?"

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June - July 2013

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Big City Life Pan Pacific Hotel Seattle, Washington

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n the words of singer John Cougar, who doesn’t like to run off to see what’s happening in the big town? On your next trip to Seattle, embark on a journey of extravagance at Pan Pacific Hotel.

Pan Pacific is a four-star hotel known for exceptional guest service, a convenient array of amenity and technology offerings, and its internationally-recognized PanEarth Program, which promotes sustainable practices throughout the hotel and social responsibility throughout the community.

Guest room features include a luxuriously appointed interior with floorto-ceiling windows and a European soaking tub with sliding Shoji screen door giving guests the option to “soak in” the views of the city, Lake Union or the Space Needle. The expansive, light-filled rooms and suite accommodations are complete with modern luxuries and technology to suit every whim and fancy. Luxuriate in the comfort of signature Hypnos bedding and Egyptian cotton linens after a long day.

The gleaming Pan Pacific tower is like a city within a city with a landscaped plaza that includes the Zagat award-winning Seastar Restaurant and Raw Bar, a Whole Foods Market, bank, spa, fitness center, boutique shopping, pharmacy, and, of course, a Starbucks coffee shop. For the ultimate pampering, order the Pan Pacific’s in-room dining experience complete with your own private wine steward.

The hotel’s location — several blocks away from the harbor, city center and Pike Place Market in the trendy South Lake Union area — further enhances an atmosphere of quiet intimacy. It’s also a brief stroll to the Space Needle, a popular entertainment center in Seattle since the World’s Fair of 1962. The convenient and safe neighborhood affords guests an impressive walk score of 97 to all that the city has to offer. If you’d rather ride in style, the Pan Pacific’s complimentary town car awaits. www2.panpacific.com

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| | www.primespokane.com

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travel

You CAN take it with you Photos courtesy of Outdoor RV Mfg.

travel 28

| | www.primespokane.com

The Black Stone RV line represents a new breed of travel trailers offering the ultimate in amenities.

Modern RVs offer freedom, convenience and luxury on wheels

ike many products and pursuits that have developed over the decades, recreational vehicles have come a long way from the tow-a-longs of the early to mid-20th century.

“People used to be happy with the essentials: water, heat, maybe a bathroom,” says Ron Little, owner of RVs Northwest. “Nowadays people take everything they own with them; they want to take ‘home’ with them wherever they go.”

“Manufacturers have become very good at adapting to the consumer,” he adds.

At your fingertips is everything you could ever ask for. Ours is an era of modern convenience that has had a tremendous impact on the RV industry.

Observes Little: “It is in constant transition from one modern marvel to another.”

In an RV, you can have all the comforts of home with you, while still getting away from it all. Slideout walls dramatically increase living space at the push of a button. RVs often come equipped with everyday living amenities including large wardrobes for clothing storage, full bath with tub, washer and dryer, flat panel televisions, central vacuum system and kitchens outfitted with custom cabinets and countertops.

Of all the modern amenities our era of RV’ing has to offer, the concept of ecofriendly travel has to be one of the most characteristic of our time. Consumers are increasingly aware of environmental considerations, and manufacturers are following their lead.

Green elements in RVing include using recycled materials, lots of electric and fuel-cell technology, and building the product around an awareness of resource, water and energy efficiency.

RV customers are vast and varied; each has their own idea of the “perfect weekend.”

Green Gables Inn

A historic bed & breakfast located in the heart of Walla Walla

Special Events, Anniversaries, Private Chef Dinners Five guest rooms with en suite bath offer modern convenience, old-world ambiance, and full gourmet breakfast

509.876.4373 922 Bonsella Street Walla Walla, WA 99362 www.greengablesinnww.com

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travel

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October 7-22, 2013

Book by May 15, for $75 Onboard Credit 509-720-6984 Prices are per person, based on double occupancy, for cruise only on select sailing and stateroom categories. Government taxes and fees are additional. For new reservations only.

Subject to availability. Certain restrictions apply. Prices include Non Commissionable Cruise Fare and are quoted in US Dollars. All itineraries and prices are subject to change without notice. Ship’s Registry: Malta. One OBC per cabin. Celebrity Cruises reserves the right to impose a fuel supplement of up to $10 USD per guest per day on all guests if the price of West Texas Intermediate fuel exceeds $65 USD per barrel. WA 601698664

Jason Armstrong

Independent Vacation Specialist Spokane, Washington www.VacationASAP.com

509-720-6984

RV living provides all the conveniences of home - and more.

Wellness Diabetes n Classes Educatio www.facebook.com /FarmersDaughterLynneKinson

208-755-2437 Lynne Kinson M.S. Certified Health & Wellness Coach

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There’s the “toy hauler” crowd: young bucks on the prowl for a raucous, fun-filled weekend of dirt biking or ATV’ing. Incidentally, “toy hauler” is actually the name of a product Little says is quite popular. A ramp in the back of a full-sized trailer folds down, the furniture hides away against the wall or even over your head, creating room to drive your dirt bikes or fourwheelers right inside.

Little says a large chunk of his customer base are those who are a little older and wiser; those who have worked hard their entire lives, raised entire families, and have earned the right to something with comfort, convenience and class.

“The fastest growing market in the industry right now is the real highdollar stuff,” he says.” He is speaking specifically of luxury-model, dieselpusher Rvs costing more than the average house. And to be honest, there aren’t many things more comfortable, more lavish.

But here’s something you may not think of as the brass ring of recreational vehicles - travel trailers. Just the name

| | www.primespokane.com

of the product may already conjure up imagery of a clunky, tow-behind rectangles with a shelf to sleep on, foldaway table and tiny propane stove.

The Blackstone line, for example— which has been called the “Cadillac” of the travel trailer industry—consists of five travel trailers from 28 to 34 feet in length, and targets a special kind of buyer: those downsizing from a motorhome or larger fifth-wheel, but who still expect luxury features: A tank-less hot water system, vaulted radius interior ceiling, “mountainsized” strut designed luggage doors that are 50 percent larger; 70 gallons of fresh water capacity, and 80 gallons of grey water capacity; a wireless touch pad to operate slide-outs; an awning, power stabilizer jacks, residential-sized queen bed and available living room fireplace.

Their slogan: Where luxury meets the outdoors.

“People love RV’ing,” White states.

“Despite whatever may happen in the stock market or the economy overall, people still make room in their lives for this great American tradition.”

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travel

Come Sail Away

Get on board and cruise away for an adventurefilled vacation

By Alyssa Williams

Setting off on ship for a far-

away adventure is certainly not a new idea.

Millions of people have done it, and the trip options and destinations are practically endless. Maybe you’ve thought about taking a cruise, but have no idea where to start. For the first-time cruiser, the process can certainly be overwhelming. So what should be the first thing on your to do list? Consult an expert.

While traditional travel agencies have somewhat gone by the wayside with the age of the Internet and the ability to book your own travel with relative ease, cruising can be a tricky animal. Even before you get down to selecting your packages and amenities, you first need to find out what kind of cruise is best for you.

Jason Armstrong, cruise planning specialist with Cruise One, can answer your

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questions and get you on your way to the best trip suited for you.

“Taking a cruise can be intimidating for someone who has never done it,” says Jason. “There are so many things to consider.”

One of those first considerations is budget. Cruise lines can vary dramatically in terms of cost and what is offered. One simple way to put it is to ask if you have champagne and caviar tastes or if you thrilled with wine and cheese.

“It’s true that most packages are allinclusive in terms of meals and on-board entertainment,” states Jason. “But alcohol and soda, and some specialty restaurants are not included in the packages. You need to be able to figure out what works best for you.”

In addition to the basic amenities, some

| | www.primespokane.com

lines are more family-friendly while others cater towards a more mature clientele.

Are you planning a trip with your family or are you going with a group of friends?

Being able to answer those questions will allow you to book the best trip for your needs.

Consulting an expert will allow you to get help for things that you may not even have thought of. Maybe you’ve been reluctant to go on a cruise because you’ve worried about motion sickness.

“We can help select a cabin on the ship that has less motion where you won’t experience the rocking that you might in other places,” Jason says.

If you have other special needs, a cruise expert can help guide you in the right direction there as well. Cruise lines offer accommodations to suit the needs of a wide

F E A T U R ED A R T I S T S range of people. You might be surprised at what’s available to you.

Being in the Spokane area allows for someone to go on a first-time cruise with relatively little extra travel expense. With the ports of Seattle and Vancouver just a short drive away, an Alaskan cruise is a perfect option.

Most of these cruises are 7-day adventures where you get to experience the majesty of the state and perhaps see the humpback whales while you view the spectacular glaciers. The Alaskan cruising season starts in mid-May and goes through September.

Other options departing from the area are what cruise lines call repositioning cruises, explains Jason. “This is where lines will finish with their Alaska season and the ships will be moving on to their next season’s destination.”

One such trip is a Pacific coastal cruise where the ship leaves the port of Vancouver and travels down the Pacific coastline making stops along the way at such places as Seattle, Astoria, Santa Barbara, and San Francisco, ending in Los Angeles. There are even some cruise lines that will go from the Seattle area to Hawaii and Asia.

Warm locales like the Bahamas or the Caribbean will always be a great place to go - especially when it’s cold and icy at home. Those trips are a great option for the first-time cruiser, and can be quite affordable. But from here, know that a large portion of the added expense will be the airfare to travel to Florida or New York or the port from where these ships depart.

“After you’ve experienced some of these closer destinations,” adds Jason, “Perhaps you’ll then be ready to plan your next trip to Europe or the Antarctica.”

No matter what destination you choose, opting to take a cruise for your next vaca-

tion is not just something that you decide you want to do next month, and off you go. While that could be a possibility under the right circumstances, planning for a cruise takes time. And planning can also save you money.

“Cruise sales are designed by the companies in such a way that the lowest fares are the first purchased,” explains Jason.

“Itineraries usually open up between a year and a half to two years ahead of time.”

Lines may have excess inventory and offer discounts as time gets closer to the date, but this is where working with a cruise advocate can help.

“If the price drops before you make your final payment, we can help you get it repriced and get you a better deal on your trip,” Jason states.

There’s also no harm in planning ahead. Even if you’ve paid your deposit, and if for some reason your plans change before making your final payment, you can generally get your deposit back with no penalty.

Generally, when planning a cruise, the average time from booking to sailing is about five months. This also allows for time to obtain everything you need for the trip which includes a passport. No matter where you’re going, you’ll need a passport to go on a cruise. Most cruise lines must dock at an international port, and you’ll need that as part of your travels.

You certainly can’t plan for every single thing that might happen on your trip, but working with someone completely familiar with the cruising industry will help ensure the best possible outcome.

Let them help navigate you through the process, and you can worry about the really important things. Like what to wear to your bon voyage party.

Adam Scoggin

Rebecca Lloyd

R i c k Da v i s

Located at River Park Square, Above The Olive Garden 221 North Wall Street, Suite 226 509.290.5604 www.bozzicollection.com Open Wed - Sat, 11am - 7pm

June - July 2013

33

health

I

By Brigetta Norlander

Alternative treatments, like accupuncture, often go hand in hand with traditional medicine in treating chronic illness.

health 34

| | www.primespokane.com

s it time to add alternative medicine practitioners to your health care team? Though traditional medicine excels at treating acute conditions, a vast majority of people seek alternative solutions for symptoms of common chronic conditions such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, arthritis and diabetes.

In many cases, these chronic diseases have been found to respond better to alternative treatments such as acupuncture, naturopathic medicine, and herbal therapy. Diabetes is a prime example of why alternative medicine is not meant to take the place of traditional modern medicine. Rather, the solution is a successful interplay of the two.

You may be tempted to try herbal remedies that promise to cure diabetes without prescription medication. Or turn to acupuncture for help in controlling blood sugar levels. Although some of these ideas may have a place in a healthy lifestyle, it’s important to understand their limitations for diabetes management. Neither the American Diabetes Association nor the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) endorses using alternative treatments in place of traditional treatment.

Alpha-lipoic acid, chromium, polyphenols and ginseng are some therapies being studied that show potential for diabetes patients. Acupuncture is another alternative treatment that shows promise for treating certain kinds of diabetes-related nerve pain.

Lynne Kinson, M.S., a certified health and wellness coach and Diabetes Free Zone provider, states that some people will always need medications depending on their pancreas function and the cellular uptake of glucose. For many patients there are two natural treatments that have proven highly effective in controlling Type 2 and pre-diabetes: diet and exercise. The question is: Do these fall under the heading of traditional or alternative treatment?

Kinson believes lifestyle changes should not be considered an alternative treatment. But some physicians think they are. Many doctors feel their patients don’t have the knowledge or motivation to change on their own, and they themselves don’t have the time to prescribe specific information on lifestyle modification. Kinson cautions that some doctors may choose to put individuals on medica-

You don’t have to say so long to your endocrinologist to experience the benefits of alternative medicine

tions first, instead of asking them to reduce their stress levels, improve their nutrition, and increase their daily activity.

Maybe then, lifestyle changes should be the place where traditional and alternative therapies begin their journey to providing relief for a chronic condition.

Such cases have more than doubled in the last 13 years to a whopping 285 million diagnosed. More than 90 percent of these people have Type 2 diabetes. Given the fact that Type 2 diabetes is largely rooted in reversible lifestyle factors, a medical approach alone is unlikely to be the solution.

Those 65 and older tend to be at highest risk for diabetes. Kinson attributes the high rates to a highly processed, super-sized diet, lack of exercise, increased frequency of sleep apnea, higher levels of stress, and living in an environment chalked full of toxins. Kinson points out that the top complications due to Type 2 Diabetes for the aging are an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, blindness due to retinopathy, kidney failure, and nerve damage. No laughing matter.

One solution is to have successful wellness programs available to which physicians can refer their patients. The Diabetes Free Zone is one such program. Based on the National Institute of Health’s ACCORD study and the Diabetes Prevention Program, DFZ reverses high blood sugar and helps individuals reduce or eliminate their need for diabetic medications through diet, physical activity, and stress management.

Perhaps the most important solution is to remember that alternative and traditional medicine are not mutually exclusive. When we make use of all appropriate approaches and health professionals, we truly can take control of our own health and achieve the optimal lifestyle we seek.

Agent for Allied Van Lines Spokane's oldest family owned and operated full-service moving company

Three Generations of our family

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509-747-1111

www.americanvanservice.com June - July 2013

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health

Planning Ahead

MEDICAID

Family Values

Plan ahead to protect your assets and preserve your Medicaid benefits

By Lynn St. Louis

Long-term care decisions can be overwhelming

and confusing. Paramount to the decision-making process is determining what the appropriate care plan is and where it can be provided? Most everyone would prefer to remain at home if possible. Although Medicaid is the primary payment source for residents of skilled nursing homes, Medicaid also pays for long-term care benefits in a person’s home, assisted living facility or adult family home. Benefits for these non-institutional settings are provided under the COPES program.

Medicaid has strict resource limits. However, exceptions often apply allowing the Medicaid recipient to preserve assets. With married persons, Medicaid’s policy is to protect against spousal impoverishment. Thus substantial assets may be kept by the community spouse.

Although a single person may only have $2,000 in countable resources, if that person’s child has been caring for the parent in the home for a period of two years prior to the Medicaid application, the home may be transferred to the caregiver child without penalty. Similarly, transfers to disabled persons are allowed with no penalty.

If no exception applies, transfers made within five years of the Medicaid application will result in a period of ineligibility. Gifts that occurred more than five years before

36

| | www.primespokane.com

application are not considered. Currently, a one month penalty period is imposed for a transfer of $7,844. Thus a transfer of $78,440 would cause a ten month period of ineligibility.

For married persons, the community spouse, (that is, the spouse not receiving Medicaid), is allowed to keep $48,639 to $115,920 in countable resources. All resources of both spouses are considered in determining eligibility, regardless of which spouse owns the resource or whether the property is considered to be separate or community property. Prenuptial and Separate Property Agreements are disregarded. Transfers between spouses before application have no effect on this initial eligibility determination.

Importantly, not all assets of the Medicaid applicant are countable, however. The following resources are not counted and are deemed exempt: A home,a vehicle, household furnishings and personal effects, a burial plot or urn space and a burial fund of not more than $1,500 or life insurance policy with a face value of $1,500 or a prepaid irrevocable burial plan.

Additionally, for married persons an excellent planning tool to protect assets is a Medicaid complaint annuity. This type of annuity is only purchased at time of need. It renders otherwise countable funds exempt. Thus for example, if the

In Business since 1969! couple has $150,000 too much in a bank account, a Medicaid annuity may be purchased. That money does not need to be spent down! The annuity pays to the community spouse during the term of the annuity. Should the community spouse fail to survive the annuity term, the State of Washington would be the beneficiary to be repaid for benefits provided to the Medicaid spouse.

Once a spouse begins receiving longterm care benefits, all assets of the couple must be transferred to the name of the community spouse. Although Medicaid requires this transfer to be done within 12 months of eligibility, the transfer should be done immediately.

Not only does this transfer ensure continued eligibility, importantly it avoids Medicaid estate recovery.

Many planning opportunities exist to preserve assets and achieve current or future Medicaid long-term care benefits eligibility. The above discusses what can be done at time of need.

Some of the best planning techniques involve planning in advance of need.

And through estate planning, upon the death of the first spouse, assets may be protected for the benefit of the surviving spouse. This is done through a Supplemental Needs Trust created by a Will. All assets that pass through the probate process to the Supplemental Needs Trust are not counted for Medicaid eligibility purposes. Surprisingly to many people, a Revocable Living Trust cannot give these protections. It is only through a Will that the preferential treatment of assets is available to the surviving spouse.

Medicaid’s rules are complex. A Medicaid plan to preserve assets must support the appropriate long-term care plan. It is crucial to work with and elder law attorney whose practice emphasizes Medicaid planning.

Lynn St. Louis is an experienced lawyer who is a knowledgeable and skilled elder law attorney. Lynn is also an accomplished trial lawyer with over 28 years of experience as an attorney. Visit her website spokaneelderlaw.com

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inspiration Raising awareness (and money) for

independence Photo by Darrell Scattergood

C

By Sarah Wyatt

erebral palsy sufferer Tania Finlayson plans raise money for Guide Dogs to drive her of America. Finlayson, who electric communicates through an wheelchair electronic device she controls from Seattle to with her head using Morse Spokane to raise money code, says she tagged along for people she says are to cheer on Ken, who had less fortunate than her: been training for months those who are visually to run in the event. Ken impaired. convinced Tania to ride Finlayson, with the along. support of Machinists “As I was doing the race, Union District Lodge I thought of how it would 751 in Seattle, has been be if I was blind,” she says, collecting donations for adding that attempting to m Guide Dogs of America, drive a wheelchair without fro l ve tra ns to Finlayson who pla Nothing stops Tania on her electric wheelchair as a a charity that provides her vision, “would be ca.

Seattle to Spokane eri Am of gs Do guide dogs and training pretty scary.” fundraiser for Guide free of charge to people “Not to mention, who are visually impaired. it would put limits on my independence. My Her goal is to raise $42,000, which is the cost of independence is something that I treasure and value breeding, raising, training and pairing one guide dog every day.” with a blind person. She’s calling her effort the Spokane “One thing I learned about Tania is that it’s a lot more Dash for Puppy Cash. Her 300-mile journey begins on comfortable and safer to get behind her when she gets June 8. her mind in something, than get in front of her,” Ken Finlayson, 52, will be escorted by her family driving in says. “If you get in front of her, she’ll probably just run an RV, and by Machinists Union volunteers in a van, as you over.” she heads across the Cascades. Her husband, Ken, will “People say driving to Spokane is an amazing ride alongside much of the way on his bicycle. The group endeavor,” Tania says, “But in my eyes it is just a pebble plans to arrive in Spokane’s Riverfront Park on June 11. in my journey in life to lend a helping hand to Guide Finlayson’s campaign began last year in Everett at Dogs of America. Hopefully I will be able to help knock the Flight for Sight run, one of several annual events to a boulder out of someone’s path in their journey in life.”

To donate to the Spokane Dash for Puppy Cash, visit dashforcash.kintera.org

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