Golden Times, January 2023

Youarenotalone

Area agencies on aging declare war on seniors’ biggest challenge: loneliness

lvis Presley is dead.”

I turned up the volume, staring at the dash in disbelief as I tried to comprehend how someone so young hadn’t just left the building, but left this Earth. Slumped in the seat of my old Pontiac in the M&K grocery store parking lot, I sobbed. Tears blurred my vision. I dabbed at snot with a tissue before retreating.

There have been a number of those never-forgotten moments in history, where time and place are frozen in time, most of

I could feel grief so deeply for someone I’d never met. Was it the fear of death, the thought of my own mortality, what?

I’m still not certain. But with Elvis, it was the death of his music and the end of my youth it seemed. When one creates some-

leave behind, how I might have contributed, whose lives I have touched and whether I’m using whatever talent I’ve been given. Living a meaningful life doesn’t mean one must have fame. It means we’ve brushed up against the lives of another and given them something of ourselves, a small gesture of generosity, a word of wisdom or kindness, a hug when someone needs one, and lending an ear to listen and a heart to understand. Maybe that’s why

grandparents are so important. We sit in a chair at eye level with a child’s face, have slowed enough, lived enough, that our ears hear even the unspoken words and our arms are always open. Being useful comes in many forms, and most of us never even know the impactful things we’ve done.

Even in a care facility, my mother felt useful when she could use her words to help another patient. So, if someone has made a difference in your life, today is the day to tell them. Don’t wait for the eulogy.

Christiansen, 79, lives in Lewiston. She can be reached at petpal535@gmail.com.

“E

1

Fay Gilkey, 100

One century ago, Fay Gilkey and her twin brother, Francis, were born in 1923 to Lavoid and Gladys Muses. They were delivered by a midwife at their home, about 15 miles outside of Orofino. During her school years, Fay lived with a family in Orofino. There, she met Don Gilkey. They were married Jan. 6, 1940. They had two children, Carol and David. Fay was a homemaker her whole adult life.

Don and Carol are deceased, but Fay’s son, David, and daughter-inlaw Linda live in Moscow. Her family also includes eight grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Fay now lives at Wedgewood Terrace Assisted Living in Lewiston.

> JAN.

5

Bill Strange Jr., 90

Bill Strange Jr., of Lewiston, was born here in 1933 to William and Stella Strange. Bill was trained in auto mechanics while serving in the Air Force. He worked as a logger and later owned a second-hand and loan store that looked like a museum, his wife, Eva Strange wrote.

They married in August 1969 in Lewiston, and their family includes five children, 12 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

After Bill retired in 1995, he bought and sold firearms. Other interests include antique fire engines and socializing.

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JAN. 9

Dick Riggs, 90

Dick Riggs, of Lewiston, was born here in 1933 to Sam and Laura Riggs.

He attended Garfield Grade School from 1939-45, then Lewiston Junior High and graduated from Lewiston High in 1951. He participated in four sports in high school. He captained the baseball team in 1951 and was president of the L Letterman’s club. He also played on the 1948, ’49 and ’50 Idaho State American Legion championship team, being captain in 1950.

Dick graduated from the University of Idaho in 1955 with a history major and a commission as a lieutenant in the U.S. Army Military

Police Corps. After two years in the Army, including 16 months in Korea, he started teaching at Sacajawea Junior High School in Lewiston, where he also coached baseball and football.

Dick married his beloved Barbara Wagner in 1960, and they had three children, Jolyn, who died in 2005; Doug, now 60; and Matt, 49. They have six grandchildren and expect their first great-grandchild this month.

Dick retired in 1992 after 34 years as an educator, including 24 years as a school superintendent in Anatone, Craigmont, Asotin and Rosalia. A party will be at 1 p.m. Jan. 28 at the Congregational-Presbyterian Church in Lewiston.

> JAN. 20

Inez Anderson, 90

Inez Anderson, of Lewiston, will be toasted with food and fun this month during a Jan. 21 open house at Lancer Lanes in Clarkston. Her daughters Karleen Craig and Teresa Anderson plan a buffet there from 1-4 p.m. “Friends, family and bowlers are invited,” they wrote. “No gifts please.”

Birthday announcements starting at age 70 are accepted for free publication in the month of the birthday only. Length limit is 200 words. All submissions must include the name and contact information of the person submitting the announcement. Current photos are welcome — please no dated pictures. To have photos returned, please include a stamped, self-addressed envelope. Submissions may be sent to goldentimes@lmtribune.com or Golden Times, P.O. Box 957, Lewiston, ID 83501. Questions may be directed to editor Julie Breslin at jbreslin@ lmtribune.com or (208) 791-6635. February birthday announcements must be received by 5 p.m. Jan. 15.

> JAN. 27

Wayne Wilson, 96

Wayne Wilson was born in 1927 in Almira, Wash., to Alanzo Canada and Margaret Ruth (Russell) Wilson.

In 1931, his family moved to Big Bear Ridge near Kendrick.

Wayne attended the Fern Hill schoolhouse, then graduated from Kendrick High School.

During World War II, he served as a yeoman in the Navy and was stationed at Terminal Island in Long Beach, Calif.

After returning from his military service, he went to work farming on Big Bear Ridge, retiring in his late 80s.

He and Glenda Graham were married in 1969 in Grangeville. She died in 2000.

An avid newspaper reader, he likes to keep up on current events and social activities. He especially enjoys visiting cafes for meals.

Great feet of strength and agility

Your feet are hard-working tools of your body. What a great design they are. The heel-toe movement keeps you moving forward, and toe-heel moves you backward. They respond to the brain’s command to walk, run, jump, climb and dance — if you’ve trained them. Think about how you learned to walk. Your legs began this skill. You discovered they would bend — even so far that you could put one of those things called toes in your mouth. The legs became strong enough to hold up your body. They followed the directions of the brain as you bent them ahead of your body.

But your feet? Your feet were flat little stubs that landed with thuds and sometimes even tripped you. It took a while to learn how to use those joints training them to go heel-toe, heel-toe. But once you learned, there was no stopping you. Oh, think of the places they’ve taken you. They became so well trained you didn’t even have to consciously command their movement — unless some part of the training was neglected.

The consequences of neglected foot training was a sad discovery for me around the age of 50. My mother had attended dances at the Chesley School

LC VETERAN CHALLENGE COIN

House all her growing-up years. She loved to dance. My father was raised in a strict environment that taught dancing was a tool of the devil and he absolutely forbade me to learn to dance (even in P.E. classes) or attend any of the school dances. I loved music and always found my body automatically moving to the beat. All of me except my feet.

When I grew up, a fellow teacher at my school also taught line dancing. She offered classes for our staff after school on Friday nights. I thought, “Yes, here’s my chance to let my feet learn to dance.” Oh my! My feet and my brain were completely disconnected when it came to following steps and patterns. I don’t believe the one even knew the other existed. My feet had been programmed for so long, they found it impossible to learn anything new.

something on a foot. It’s a shocking reminder of how much we take our feet for granted.

Hoseley

I found inspiration in reading “Grandma Gatewood’s Walk” by Ben Montgomery. What an amazing lady. She walked the Appalachian Trail three times, the Lewis Clark Trail from Missouri to Portland in 1959 and took many short jaunts, all with gnarled toes and large bunions stuffed in tennis shoes. She began these treks at age 67. She trained her feet well in the art of walking.

Awareness of those appendages at the end of our legs is more important than ever as we get older. When I walk for exercise, I repeat “heel-toe, heel-toe ...” so they won’t forget their proper use. I don’t want to become a waddling, flat-footed penguin.

At home I practiced and practiced at night in front of my big picture window, completely oblivious to the fact the outside world could watch my faltering steps. After four months, all the line-dancing students except me were whooping it up in perfect rhythm, having a ball.

I quit. You may be able to teach an old dog new tricks but not old feet.

It certainly raised my foot awareness and made me ponder how important they are. If you lose even one of those little things called toes, you have to relearn how to balance and walk. All of us have stubbed a toe or dropped

When my feet swell from sitting too long at the computer, I walk, drink more water and put my feet up. I check them for sores and keep the toenails clipped. I’ve even pulled out the foot bath I used while teaching. Their private sauna is followed by a lotion massage. My feet say, “Ahhh. ”

What are your feet saying to you? What do you need to do to keep them going? They’ve had a heavy load to carry all your life. Give them some special attention and thank them for their service.

Chase Hoseley is a freelance writer and retired kindergarten teacher who lives in Clarkston. She can be reached at shoseley8@gmail.com.

THINKING OUT LOUD Sharon Chase

Feedfriendship | Starve the blues

By KAYLEE BREWSTER FOR GOLDEN TIMES

Dennis Ohrtman keeps a list of 40 people he tries to visit each month with either a phone call, a home visit or taking them

out for a meal or coffee.

Some of them have lost loved ones, and the connection helps them get “back into the mainstream of fun when life isn’t for them at the moment,” he said.

The people who are on Ohrtman’s list are valued

friends, some of whom he has known for five decades.

Ohrtman, 75, of Lewiston, who is the Region II commissioner for the Idaho Commission on Aging, attended a recent meeting with the Idaho Commission on Aging, during which he

listened to a presentation that inspired him.

The topic was loneliness. Ohrtman’s way of processing the information was to write a poem (it is on Page 9).

“It’s kind of a downer

August Frank/Golden Times

Ashlea Shop, of Lewiston, serves seniors cheesecake as they finish up their Thanksgiving meal of turkey, stuffing, cranberry and pasta salad during a senior meal service at the Lewiston Community Center. Communal meal programs aim to care for body and soul in the battle against isolation.

“Loneliness is the single biggest issue for our seniors.”

– HARRIET PEA, LONG TERM CARE OMBUDSMAN, FOR THE AREA AGENCY ON AGING OF NORTH CENTRAL IDAHO

RESCUE ME FROM LONELINESS ISLAND

It is not fun to be isolated on an island so lonely. I got stranded here before I was ready, when my hands were no longer steady.

When I was young, life was a “full meal deal.” Here loneliness is real, but it has little appeal. Here some get old with resignation; some get old with weary anticipation. How did I know… that recliners and remotes wouldn’t talk? that my run would slow to a walk? that downtown stores would assume that I could easily stand or walk? that electronics and meds would attack my budget? that friends would yield life to a heavenly trumpet? that friends who used to knock at the door seldom visit anymore? that we would mask feelings and faces as we measure our paces? that partners more hours would sleep and more doctors’ appointments would keep? that rather than exploring life’s estuaries, I’d be reading more too-close-to-home obituaries? that my car keys by the chimney be hung in hopes that the Uber soon would come? that my children would have their own lives to expand while here on this island alone I stand? Oh, Lord, let me off Loneliness Island. I may be old But I’m not gone; I’m not done.

I have plenty to offer— My wisdom and patience I’m willing to proffer. Oh, Friend, if you have a minute, an hour, Rescue me as I stand on this island so lonely AND

Our mutual spirits will tower and empower if you just give me a minute, an hour.

— Dennis Ohrtman

FEED FRIENDSHIP

poem until you get to the end, and the message is fairly simple,” he said: All it takes to rescue someone from their loneliness is making a phone call.

Ohrtman said people can become disconnected from friends, and excuses are made that prevent people from reaching out.

“(The poem) reminds me we can’t do that,” Ohrtman said.

LONELINESS IS WIDESPREAD, HARMFUL TO YOUR HEALTH

Next month, the Commission on Aging will focus on the problem of loneliness among seniors, and the group is encouraging people to reach out to those in need.

Harriet Pea, long term care ombudsman, for the Area Agency on Aging of North Central Idaho, highlighted isolation as a key issue for seniors.

himself. He helped start the Meals on Wheels program in Lewiston in 1974 after he moved to the valley in 1969, and shortly after the area’s senior nutrition program was launched.

“We’ve never been enemies. We have needed both programs,” Ohrtman said. “We have needed everybody who can serve food and serve kindness.”

Both programs not only aim to meet seniors’ physical needs but also provide a way for seniors to connect. Meals on Wheels gives people someone to talk with every week, and the senior nutrition program offers meal sites where people can come together to eat, visit and play games.

“It gives them a little bit of life,” Ohrtman said.

More information

More information on resources for seniors or how to volunteer is available by calling the Area Agency on Aging at (208) 743-5580. A list of volunteer opportunities can be found on Page 12.

“It’s such a huge problem, recognizing the needs of seniors, especially in rural areas,” Pea said. “Loneliness is the single biggest issue for our seniors.”

She said social ties help lessen depression and reduce the likelihood of developing dementia by helping build and maintain brain connections.

For seniors struggling with loneliness, the COVID-19 pandemic made the situation worse by curtailing in-person visits.

To protect residents’ health, nursing homes closed their doors to family and friends. Meals on Wheels delivery volunteers no longer had face-toface contact with clients. Seniors and volunteers in those programs are still working back to a sense of “normal.”

“Depression was huge for people,” Ohrtman said. “Battling the way out of that and back to normal society is our goal.”

TAKING A BITE OUT OF ISOLATION

During the pandemic, Ohrtman continued reaching out to the people on his list by writing monthly notes of encouragement. But he was advocating for seniors long before he became one

The Area Agency on Aging also offers communal dinners at various centers in the region where seniors can dine (site locations are listed on Page 12).

“It’s the most key program we have,” Pea said, alluding to how the program meets two needs at once. “It’s a great way to just get out and sit and talk to others, so take advantage of it.”

WHERE TO MIX & MINGLE

Other important avenues for socializing can include church, meeting with longtime or new friends or groups with similar interests.

Pea suggested taking classes and doing activities at area libraries, which gives participants a chance to learn something new while interacting with others.

Seniors who are more comfortable with technology can join online activity and support groups. Those are a good option for homebound people since meetings are held virtually — all it requires is Wi-Fi and basic technology skills.

“You name it: If you have a hobby you can find a group that meets on Zoom or FaceTime,” Pea said.

Pea uses these resources herself; she belongs to a sewing group on Facebook.

“I have found those groups to be tremendously conversational,” she said. “I can share my projects with the group, and people comment and share tips.”

Pinterest is another resource she recommends for tech-savvy seniors

August Frank/Golden Times

Dennis Ohrtman poses for a photo last month.

that center around hobbies. She said men might consider joining groups focused on woodworking or hunting on Pinterest or other web-based groups.

In-person activities can include organized events or more casual get-togethers.

Various retirement and coffee groups meet in the Lewiston-Clarkston Valley. Ohrtman gathers with a retired teachers group that encourages each other through difficulties, tells “old war stories” and plans celebrations.

“We realize we’re not dead,” Ohrtman said. “We have fun together and can do things together.”

Ohrtman names Mystic Cafe

and Rosauers as two popular gathering spots in Lewiston where seniors meet over coffee throughout the week. The coffee klatches include peers from high school days getting together and more casual groupings, many without any specific affiliation. The groups represent “every sector of society,” Ohrtman said. “It’s been an open invitation. There’s so much variety, there’s going to be a friend around.”

TAKING ACTION

For those who want to make sure their senior loved ones

are interacting, they can offer one key service: driving.

“The most common thing that prevents seniors from getting out and socializing is lack of ability to drive,” Pea said.

But even a phone call to check in and chat can help alleviate loneliness.

“Very simple things make such a huge difference,” Pea said.

For Ohrtman, when it comes to helping seniors, he gets more than he gives. He sums it up with this piece of wisdom from an older friend: “Everything I give away I get back tenfold.”

“It’s a whole new set of friends,” Ohrtman said.

“Meals are really secondary to the friendships.”

Ohrtman has passed along the joy of delivering meals to his children and grandchildren, making it a family tradition. So have many others who volunteer for the meal programs. But more helpers are welcome, as many people remain on waiting lists in both programs.

“Every once in a while they hit hard times (when there is a shortage of volunteers), then they have good times,” Ohrtman said.

“The real excitement in this valley is people are tremendously generous. That makes all of these programs possible.”

August Frank/Golden Times

Rodger MacDonald shares a laugh with Ashlea Shop, of Lewiston, during a fall senior meal service at the Lewiston Community Center. Studies show a connection between a strong social network and good physical, mental and emotional health.

Uzbekistan Republic, fall 1991

This is a continuing narrative from Keatts’ visit to her son, Ken Keatts, who worked at the U.S. Embassy in Russia in the 1990s. Earlier installments can be found at lmtribune.com by clicking the “Special Pubs” tab and viewing back issues of Golden Times.

soundtrack for some Arabian Nights

Never having been to Arabia, it seemed to me that I had stepped back into the era of “The Arabian Nights.”

We toured the emir’s prison and were told the punishment for many crimes was death by being thrown from the top of the minaret into the street. We saw a picture depicting a man being hanged and a woman being stoned. Their crime? They had eloped without the family’s consent. The date? 1905.

In two locations, we were shown palaces of the shah, including the harems where the wives and concubines of the shah were kept as virtual prisoners. These operated

until about 1925, when the communist government dismantled them. Now the Muslim tourist guides tell us, “You come back in four years and you won’t be able to get into this place. With the new freedom of religion, it will be in operation again.” I find that prospect quite alarming. Public schools were started in Uzbekistan in the early 1900s, but women weren’t allowed to attend school until the 1930s. Nor did I see any indication that, prior to then, women were educated at all. In both communities the tour guides (who were women) showed us the square where all the women had gathered and burned their veils in the

1930s. They vowed never to return to them again. They told of many women who had been killed by their husbands, fathers or brothers for taking off their veils and speaking out. Finally, the rest of the women all did it at the same time and, confronted with the numbers, the men had to accept it. Between gruesome things and Muslim lore, the tour group snooped the markets — again something out of “The Arabian Nights.” People set up stalls along an open street. Down the middle of it runs a ditch about 10 inches wide by 15 inches deep. That is the sewer system. I saw one mother pull down the pants on her toddler and hold her over the ditch. How is that for potty training?

There were a lot of exot-

ic and different things to buy at the markets, and we all had to get some things. On one of our flights between cities, one plane developed problems, so everyone got into the other plane. People were standing, holding the baggage racks for support like they would on a bus. On another flight, I was asked if I’d like to go into the cockpit and watch the plane take off. It was very crowded, and I had to crouch down to see, but what an experience.

Keatts is a retired Clarkston businesswoman who ran an accounting office for many years. She loves to travel and shares excerpts from notes sent to loved ones detailing her adventures. Previous tales can be found online at lmtribune.com under the “Special Pubs” tab.

TRAVELOGUE

Jeanne Keatts

A golden sun slants through the afternoon fog to reveal a fairy tale scene: a glimpse of a beautiful old building emerging from the mist. As if it’s a fragile enchantment that might vanish back into the fog, it sits in a snowy field edged with tall trees. Its battlements and corner towers contrast proudly in the warm light with the white lacy trees.

“Wow, what do you suppose that is? A castle?” my husband asks.

I haven’t a clue. We are exploring the Czech countryside in the little car I had rented for the two weeks of my his visit from Idaho. We’ve driven into an area that is all new to us.

“Let’s go find out.”

A small road winds down into the field and ends in a parking lot near the building. Three or four small cars are parked together at one end.

The building is shaped like a U with a casetta or ticket booth in the open part. As we pause in front of it, a bearded man sitting behind the high window just smiles and waves us on. Apparently, no tickets are required, so we climb the broad staircase to the main entrance. Beyond the creaky doors is a wide corridor with gleaming wooden floors. Not another soul is in sight. How different the inside is from the outside! Here all is utilitarian —no baroque carvings, as might be expected, nor curving marble staircases, no crystal chandeliers. Rather, it reveals the bare evidence of Communist era architecture and décor.

We wander along, turning occasional corners and climbing more stairways. Most doors are closed and we don’t dare venture to open them, but once far down a hallway, we see a person emerge from one doorway, walk across the corridor and disappear into another one.

“I feel a little like Alice must have felt when she went through the looking glass,” I whisper.

Occasional faint sounds of subdued murmurings echo through the empty hallways, but their sources are vague and impossible to determine. We meander on. The building is surprisingly warm, so I loosen my winter coat. Through an open door we poke our heads into a large plain room. It’s completely empty — no furniture, nothing; only bare windows looking out into the winter light.

“Must be some sort of a school or office building,” my husband says.

“Maybe, but where is everyone?”

“Yeah, it’s strange. I thought maybe it was an old castle converted into a hotel.”

We hear a door open and close, but no one is to be seen. Becoming uneasy I say, “This is getting downright creepy. Let’s get out of here,” pulling my coat closer around me in the heat. We hurriedly retrace our steps and, as the front door closes behind us, we look at each other and laugh with relief. The casetta man smiles again as we pass, and on impulse I go to the window and ask, “Informacija?”

He hands me a booklet; I

pay him a few Czech koruna and we leave. The spell has been broken and the fog returns in full force as we wade through the snow to our little car. We continue on to the city of Olomouc, where we join an outdoor ceremony honoring Tomáš Masaryk, the first president of Czechoslovakia. Incidentally, the U.S. also honored him with postage stamps under the heading “Champions of Liberty.”

Following a delicious dinner of fried cheese, we start home. After a few wrong turns that result in stopping to read our road map and peering through the gloom at very small and very indistinct road signs, we find our way back.

That evening over a hot cup of tea, I open the booklet from the casetta and find one section, luckily, is in English.

“You’ll never believe where we spent the afternoon. That lovely old building actually is indeed an historic site — a castle like you thought — but do you know what it’s used for now?” I say to my husband. “We were wandering around loose in, as it’s called here,” I say tapping the page, “a lunatic asylum!”

“Ah,” my husband says with a wink, “It was enchanted.”

Johnson, of Grangeville, worked in three European countries — Hungary, Czech Republic and Slovenia — in the 1990s and early 2000s. She can be reachedatjohnsondixie@hotmail.com.

The WA-ID Volunteer Center, in the Lewiston Community Center at 1424 Main St., strives to provide individualized volunteer opportunities for those wishing to serve in Lewiston, Clarkston, Asotin, Pomeroy, Moscow and the Orofino area. Information and other volunteer openings can be found at waidvolunteercenter.org or by calling (208) 746-7787. Volunteer needs include:

ï Tutors — America Reads needs tutors to help K-third grade students become proficient readers. Volunteers need to be able to commit to at least an hour a week for the school year. Background check required.

ï Companions — The Senior Companion program provides companionship and respite care to the elderly and disabled. It allows lowincome senior volunteers an opportunity to assist those who need minor help to continue living independently. Senior Companions visit clients in their homes, but it isn’t an in-home care program.

ï Food bank help — Volunteers are needed

to repack frozen and dry foods for distribution. Front counter volunteers and drivers for morning food pickups also are needed.

ï Meal sites — Volunteers are needed as regular and substitute meal delivery drivers. A valid driver’s license and auto insurance are required.

ï AARP tax preparer — AARP Tax Aide Program needs volunteers to help prepare free basic tax returns for seniors and low-income individuals. No experience necessary; comfort working with computers helpful. Training and materials are provided.

ï Project Warmup — Crafters are needed to make hats, scarves, mittens and lap blankets (yarn is provided) and to help tie quilts. Completed items are donated to local nonprofit agencies.

ï Project Warmup Lead — Organize and stock yarn, manage and inventory completed cold-weather items, and help staff to prepare and complete fall disbursement event.

ï Local Hospital Auxiliary — Greet

people, deliver flowers, courtesy cart, deliver mail, gift shop assistant, create baby and child items, clerical, provide hospital tours and more.

ï Lewiston Police Department — Individuals with the ability to interact positively and keep information confidential are needed to fingerprint citizens. Training is provided. Some basic computer skills are required, and volunteers must pass a background check.

ï Lewiston City Library — Volunteers needs include circulation support, tech tutors and programming support.

ï Mobile blood drive canteen — Volunteers serve refreshments to donors immediately following donations, help maintain a comfortable atmosphere, talk with donors and answer questions while observing the donors for possible adverse reactions.

ï Disaster services — As the first responders of the American Red Cross, the Disaster Action Team volunteers provide comfort and direct assistance to those affected by disaster as they begin

the recovery process.

ï Museum docents — Skills include meet-andgreet abilities, friendly personality and the ability to answer questions about the museum displays. Training is provided.

ï Household repairs (minor) — Tasks range from changing light bulbs and checking fire alarms to repairing steps and installing grab bars to prevent falls.

ï Transportation— Drive seniors or disabled community members to and from destinations across the LewistonClarkston Valley. A valid driver’s license and auto insurance are required.

Valley Meals on Wheels provides daily homedelivered meals to seniors, home-bound and special needs clients in the Lewiston-Clarkston Valley.

Drivers are needed for weekday and weekend deliveries from 10:30 a.m. to 1p.m. If you can help, contact the office between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. at (208) 799-5767 or by email at valleymeals@aol.com

Interlink Inc. is a nonprofit organization in

Clarkston that matches community volunteers to people needing assistance to remain independent in their own homes. For information about becoming a volunteer, call (509) 751-9143. Volunteer applications and additional information also can be found online at interlinkvolunteers.org.

Current volunteer needs include:

ï Drivers to take people to appointments; mileage is reimbursed.

ï People who can do small home safety repairs for seniors.

ï Help with cabinetry and hanging large pictures and white boards in the Interlink Office.

ï People to work on the Christmas Concert and other fundraising events.

ï People interested in serving on the Interlink Board of Directors, especially from Asotin County.

Golden Times publishes Volunteer Opportunities in the LewistonClarkston Valley monthly as a free public service. Area agencies may send information to goldentimes@ lmtribune.com or Golden Times, P.O. Box 957, Lewiston, ID 83501. All submissions are edited for brevity and clarity, and will run as space allows. Questions may be directed to editor Julie Breslin at jbreslin@lmtribune.com or (208) 791-6635. Deadline for the February edition is 5 p.m. Jan. 15.

HELP~HOPE~HEALING so no child grieves alone We provide the necessary emotional support and assistance that children, teens and families need when the death of a loved one occurs. Camp Erin® Is our annual weekend overnight camp for kids ages 6-17 For more information go to willow-center.org 208.791.7192 Find us on

SCAMSTOPPER

Financial predators are alive, well and on the prowl, hoping to separate you from your money. Catfishing predators may claim to be looking for romance. Here are a few tips on how to avoid becoming their next victim. Feel free to clip this and tape it near your phone and/or computer.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

take steps to minimize damage and protect themselves.

 Report it to their bank or credit institution if money was taken or information was shared.

The WA-ID Volunteer Center, in the Lewiston Community Center at 1424 Main St., strives to provide individualized volunteer opportunities for those wishing to serve in Lewiston, Clarkston, Asotin, Pomeroy, Moscow and the Orofino area. Information and other volunteer openings can be found at waidvolunteercenter.org or by calling (208) 746-7787.

to re-pack frozen and dry foods for distribution. Front counter volunteers and drivers for morning food pickups also are needed.

 Report it to the business or organization involved.

 Report it to the Better Business Bureau at www.bbb.org/scamtracker/us.

 Report it to the Federal Trade Commission at ftc.gov/complaintor by calling (877) FTC-HELP.

ï Meal sites — Volunteers are needed as regular and substitute meal delivery drivers. A valid driver’s license and auto insurance are required.

 Find a list of current known scams and more information on avoiding scams, at www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/scam-alert.

 Find information on scams circulating locally on the Lewiston Police Department’s Facebook page, where citizens also may sign up for news alerts.

Volunteer needs include:

> RED FLAGS INCLUDE CALLS, EMAILS OR LETTERS THAT:  are unsolicited (you didn’t initiate contact)  are threatening in tone, promising scary or embarrassing consequences for noncompliance or  are euphoric in tone (great news, you won the lottery — we need your bank account number to deposit your winnings)  request personal information  request money — usually in the form of a prepaid debit or credit card  carry an aggressive sense of urgency

ï Tutors — America Reads needs tutors to help K-third grade students become proficient readers. Volunteers need to be able to commit to at least an hour a week for the school year. Background check required.

> IF YOU SUSPECT YOU’RE BEING TARGETED BY A SCAMMER: DON’T  share any personal information  send money DO  hang up the phone  delete the email or  shred the letter

 Check legitimacy of claims if desired, but not using a number supplied by the caller. Instead, look the company up in the phone book or online.

 Report the scam (more information follows).

> THINK YOU’VE BEEN TAKEN?

ï Companions — The Senior Companion program provides companionship and respite care to the elderly and disabled. It allows lowincome senior volunteers an opportunity to assist those who need minor help to continue living independently.

Senior Companions visit clients in their homes, but it isn’t an in-home care program.

ï Food bank help — Volunteers are needed

ï AARP tax preparer — AARP Tax Aide Program needs volunteers to help prepare free basic tax returns for seniors and low-income individuals. No experience necessary; comfort working with computers helpful. Training and materials are provided.

 Ask door-to-door solicitors to show their licenses, and call the police if they don’t.

>

BEWARE OF CATFISHERS LOOKING FOR “LOVE”

Catfishing is when someone fakes an online identity to scam victims for money, romance or physical harm. These predatory online relationships can last for months or even years. It’s catfishing if ...

ï Project Warmup — Crafters are needed to make hats, scarves, mittens and lap blankets (yarn is provided) and to help tie quilts. Completed items are donated to local nonprofit agencies.

 They ask for money: An online friend or romantic interest whom you’ve never met asks you to send money or provide your bank information.

 They won’t meet. Beware if the contact strings you along but avoids meeting in person. Some catfishers agree to meet but have an “emergency” — such as a canceled flight or a medical issue — that prevents it. Catfishers often claim to be stationed abroad or working on an oil rig as an excuse for not meeting.

ï Project Warmup Lead— Organize and stock yarn, manage and inventory completed cold-weather items, and help staff to prepare and complete fall disbursement event.

It’s a good idea to pay attention to details on bills and other financial transactions; discrepancies can be a red flag for identity theft. But many fraudulent schemes currently circulating are sophisticated and able to trick even the most savvy. Anyone who believes they’ve been contacted by a scam artist and/or fallen victim to a fraudulent scheme may …

 Skyping is off limits, too. Catfishers refuse to video chat.

 They seem too good to be true. Some people who catfish feel bad about themselves and often assume the online persona of a fashion model, actor, successful businessperson, etc.

ï Local Hospital Auxiliary — Greet people, deliver flowers, courtesy cart, deliver mail, gift

> DON’T GET HOOKED

 Report it to local police at (208) 7460171 in Lewiston, (509) 758-2331 in Clarkston, (208) 883-7054 in Moscow or (509) 334-0802 in Pullman. Police can alert the community to new scams and help victims

Before meeting in person or providing any information about yourself, fact-check claims and verify online identities using Google and SocialCatfish.com.

— Golden Times

TikToker raises thousands to help Navy vet retire

By GREG LARRY CUMBERLAND TIMES-NEWS

CUMBERLAND, Md. — An 82-year-old Cumberland man had no idea his life was going to change forever when he arrived for his shift at LaVale Walmart on Dec. 15.

Walter S. “Butch” Marion reported for duty at his usual post, register No. 4. Not long after his day got underway a stranger began chatting with him.

The chance meeting with Rory McCarty, of Cumberland, would ultimately lead to a viral video and a Go Fund Me account for Marion with donations exceeding $100,000 in just a few days. The fund was at more than $110,000 Christmas morning.

“It’s a miracle,” Marion said. “What else can I say. I can’t wrap my mind around it.”

The hard-working senior citizen has led a remarkable life so far but what was about to happen to him at Christmastime has turned his life into a storybook tale.

Marion, a Navy veteran, said he likes to “keep busy and keep his bills paid.” He has been working at Walmart for 16 years.

“At work I’ll have a casual conversation with all my customers,” Marion said. “That is part of dealing with the public. As big as that store is, a lot of them are already stressed out. My job is to make them happy and that is what I try to do.”

McCarty came to Walmart to purchase batteries and spotted a slightly hunched over Marion working the cash register and entered his lane. McCarty, who owns a Bug Boys franchise in Ridgeley, W.Va., has been a content provider for the social media platform TikTok for several years where he posts wildly popular videos.

“I post bug videos,” McCarty said. “Really bad infestations of bugs like termites. Fascinating videos with close ups.

“My TikTok has blown up and it has gotten me (work) in four states. Some of my videos have gotten seven, eight million views. That’s how I got a huge following.

I have the largest TikTok following in the world of all pest control sites. I’m up to 270,000 followers.”

While on TikTok, McCarty saw a video featuring an elderly lady with a cane working at Walmart, which struck a chord of sympathy with viewers. To help the hard-working senior, people donated online more than $100,000.

“The lady only had about 70 followers on TikTok,” said McCarty. “She went up to 130,000 in a week because of the video. I thought it would be nice to use this platform to help someone in our area. I saw her video that Thursday.”

Marion said McCarty was the last of about four people in his line, and the two struck up a casual conversation.

“Here is this man and he is still grinding and I can’t even find good help,” McCarty said. “Here is this man, 82, and I was intrigued and he was nice and personable. So I instinctively pulled out my camera and I started filming him and asking him questions.”

What McCarty learned about Marion sealed the deal.

Born in 1941 in Cumberland, Marion entered the Navy where he served for nine years. He was on a lead destroyer during the

Bay of Pigs and Cuban blockade. He also spent time in Vietnam.

“When I got out I tried to get a job in Cumberland in 1968 and no one was hiring,” said Marion. “Everything was shutting down, so I got a job in Pontiac, Mich., where I worked for General Motors for 26 years. Then, I got 15 years with the Honeywell Corporation in Panama City, Fla., and then I came to Walmart.”

Marion’s wife had been married before and had two daughters. In addition to taking the children in, Marion befriended his wife’s first husband Jim. His wife and her first husband both got cancer and Marion took care of them to the end.

“That’s what you do,” Marion said. “When they got sick, I quit my job. Jim was in the home and we took care of him. Then my wife got breast cancer and she passed in February 2005. I took care of her to the end.”

Marion said, “The kids said to me, ‘You’re dad now.’ That is what they told me and bless their little heart, they meant it.” Marion’s kids and grandchildren and great grandchildren mostly live in Florida.

“They said, ‘Dad, you need to go back home to Cumberland and

bond with your brothers and sisters. You’ve been gone so long,” said Marion. “So I came back in 2006. That’s the way it’s been.”

McCarty decided to ask Marion if he could post the video on TikTok and start a Go Fund Me account to raise money to help Marion.

“It took me three days to track Butch down,” said McCarty. “I went up and he was off. Finally I found him at work that Sunday morning and talked to him and he was OK with the idea, so I put it on and it went crazy.”

The fund had raised more than $110,000 as of Christmas afternoon.

“I didn’t plan on doing it,” said McCarty. “I just set the ball in motion. I had no idea it would blow up like that. It got 400,000 views the day I posted it.”

“I’m still having a hard time with it,” Marion said. “Even though I know what’s going down. Why was I the one that he picked? The answer to that is God.”

“I didn’t do anything extraordinary,” McCarty said. “Anyone could have done it.”

The story has garnered national attention, spreading across all forms of media.

“This thing went viral,” said Marion. “It went around the world. I had a person from Ireland even called. He donated $3,000. He said, people love you Butch. I can’t thank Rory and the people who donated enough.

“All I can tell you is the good Lord has blessed me for what I did in my younger years,” added Marion. “What this is going to do for me at 82 years old is allow me to pay all my bills off, including my house and I will have nothing but my utility bills. I’ll be able to travel to Florida whenever I feel like going and see my kids. I’m very, very blessed.”

Marion plans to retire from Walmart.

“I didn’t know Rory from Adam,” said Marion. “You can’t realize what it is. You can’t imagine it. I’m having a merry Christmas don’t you think?”

Still taken from Rory McCarty video Warren “Butch” Marion plans to leave his Walmart job and travel to Florida to spend time with his daughters thanks to Rory McCarty’s GoFundMe drive.

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

VALLEY MEALS ON WHEELS — JANUARY MENU

3

HOT: Pork loin/ rice/squash

HOT: Chicken cordon bleu/ pasta/carrots

SACK: Turkey/carrot sticks/applesauce

HOT: Lasagna/ mushrooms SACK: Egg salad/cottage cheese/ pineapple tidbits

SACK: Chicken salad/pears/pudding

HOT: Shepherd’s pie/mixed veggies

8 29

HOT: Barbecue ribs/potatoes/broccoli

HOT: Ham/ stuffing/corn

SACK: Krab salad/pears/vanilla pudding

HOT: Chicken cordon bleu/ pasta/carrots

SACK: Turkey/carrot sticks/applesauce

HOT: Chickenrice casserole/ veggie mix

SACK: Pastrami/broccoli salad/Jell-O

HOT: Goulash/green beans SACK: Turkey/crudites cup/cookies 22 23 24

9 30

HOT: Tuna casserole/ carrots

SACK: Beef/cottage cheese/fig cookie

HOT: Lasagna/ mushrooms SACK: Egg salad/cottage cheese/ pineapple tidbits

For the LewistonClarkston Valley >Mondays

Yoga/low-impact exercise, 9-10 a.m. (advanced) and 10:15-11:15 a.m. (beginners), Valley Community Center, 549 Fifth St., Clarkston.

Coffee, 10 a.m. to noon, Valley Community Center.

Coffee, 10 a.m. to noon, $1 donation, Sixth Street Senior Center, 832 Sixth St., Clarkston.

Fit For Life, 10-11 a.m., Grange Hall, 2220 Reservoir Road, Clarkston.

HOT: Orange chicken/fried rice/corn

SACK: Ham/coleslaw/ lemon tart

HOT: Pork loin/mashed potatoes/peas

SACK: Roast beef/ pea salad/pineapple

HOT: Goulash/green beans

SACK: Turkey/crudites cup/cookies

10 31

HOT: Chili/ cornbread/ green beans SACK: Chicken salad/ spinach salad/cake

HOT: Orange chicken/fried rice/corn

SACK: Ham/coleslaw/ lemon tart

Painting group, noon to 3 p.m., Valley Community Center.

Foot care, Valley Community Center. By appointment only: (509) 330-1857.

>Tuesdays

Coffee, 10 a.m. to noon, Valley Community Center.

Free document shredding (small bags at a time), 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., lobby of Valley Community Center.

Coffee, 10 a.m. to noon, $1 donation, Sixth Street Senior Center.

Bridge, noon, Lewiston Community Center.

HOT: Chicken Alfredo/broccoli

SACK: Ham/beetcarrot salad/brownie

6

SACK: Tuna salad/green salad/ Jell-O fluff

HOT: Spaghetti/ cauliflower

SACK: Pastrami/fruit salad/butterscotch pudding

HOT: Ham/ scalloped potatoes/peas SACK: Turkey/banana/ chocolate pudding

SACK: Egg salad/ green salad/chocolate pudding

SACK: Egg salad/ cucumber-onion salad/ applesauce 26

12 11 14 13

SACK: Tuna salad/Italian pasta salad/cobbler

HOT: Spaghetti/ mushrooms

5 25

HOT: Pork loin/ rice/squash

SACK: Egg salad/ cucumber-onion salad/ applesauce

HOT: Pot roast/ mashed potatoes/squash SACK: Pastrami/ 3-bean salad/cookies

HOT: Shepherd’s pie/mixed veggies

SACK: Ham/beetcarrot salad/brownie

HOT: Chickenfried steak/potatoes/veggies

HOT: Beef stroganoff/ squash

SACK: Ham/ crudites cup/pears

17 15 18 16 19 20 21

SACK: Tuna salad/ peaches/lemon snow

7 27

HOT: Stuffed peppers/rice/ diced carrots

4 28

HOT: Chicken Alfredo/broccoli

SACK: Tuna salad/green salad/ Jell-O fluff

HOT: Meatloaf/scalloped potatoes

SACK: Ham/potato salad/fresh apple

HOT: Spaghetti/ cauliflower

SACK: Pastrami/fruit salad/butterscotch pudding

Meals are delivered to established clients between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. 365 days of the year, with delivery guaranteed by 1 p.m. each day. Individuals can have a Hot meal delivered to their residence for $3.50 per day or a Hot meal and a Sack lunch for $4.50 per day. More information is available by calling (208) 799-5767. Menus are prepared by St. Joseph Regional Medical Center and are subject to change.

SENIOR CALENDAR

>Wednesdays

Yoga/low-impact exercise, 9-10 a.m. (advanced) and 10-11 a.m. (beginners), Valley Community Center.

Coffee, 10 a.m. to noon, Valley Community Center. Coffee, 10 a.m. to noon, $1 donation, Sixth Street Senior Center.

Country jam, 10 a.m. to noon, Sixth Street Senior Center.

Fit For Life, 9-10 a.m. 10-11 a.m., Grange Hall, Clarkston.

Pinochle, 12:30-3:30 p.m., Lewiston Commu-

nity Center.

Bridge, 12:30-4:30 p.m., Valley Community Center.

>Thursdays

Coffee, 10 a.m. to noon, Valley Community Center. Free document shredding, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., lobby of Valley Community Center. Coffee, 10 a.m. to noon, $1 donation, Sixth Street Senior Center.

Bridge group, fourth Thursday only, 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Valley Community Center. Painting group,

noon, Lewiston Community Center.

Dance, 7-9:30 p.m., $5 donation, Sixth Street Senior Center.

Footcare, Valley Community Center. By appointment only: (253) 218-7091.

>Fridays

Coffee, 10 a.m. to noon, Valley Community Center. Coffee, 10 a.m. to noon, $1 donation, Sixth Street Senior Center.

Fit For Life, 10-11 a.m., Grange Hall, Clarkston. Country jam, 10 a.m. to noon, Sixth Street Senior Center.

AARP TaxAide Program needs volunteers to help prepare

Call Jeanette @ 208-746-7787 for more information!

3 Tuna casserole/hot vegetable/salad/fruit/bread

4 Orange chicken/hot vegetable/salad/fruit/bread

M

10 Taco pie/hot vegetable/ salad/fruit/bread

17 Chicken-fried steak/ veggies/salad/fruit/bread

24 Beef stroganoff/veggies/salad/fruit/bread

31 Spaghetti/hot vegetable/salad/fruit/bread

11 Meatloaf/hot vegetable/ salad/fruit/bread

18 Swedish meatballs/hot vegetable/salad/fruit/bread

25 Ham/hot vegetable/ salad/fruit/bread

WLEWISTON SENIOR NUTRITION PROGRAM — When: Noon, Mon./Tues. and 11:30 a.m. Wed. • Where: Lewiston Community Center, 1424 Main St., or call for delivery at (208) 743-6983. Onsite meals are every Monday through Wednesday. • Cost: $4 suggested for seniors 60 and older; $5 for nonseniors • Note: Menu is subject to change.

SENIORMEAL MENUSFOR JANUARY

SENIOR ROUND TABLE NUTRITION PROGRAM — When: Noon, Tues./Thurs./Fri. • Where: Valley Community Center, 549 Fifth St. No. F, Clarkston, or call (509) 758-3816 for delivery. • Cost: $4 suggested for seniors 60 and older; $7 for nonseniors • Note: Menu is subject to change.

5 Chicken tenders/mac & cheese/green beans/pickled beets/peaches

9 Eggplant parmesan/ veggies/salad/fruit/bread 23 Chili mac ’n’ cheese/ veggies/salad/fruit/bread 30 Chicken casserole/ veggies/salad/fruit/bread 6 Ham ’n’ bean soup/salad bar/cornbread 13 Beef and barley soup/salad bar/Texas toast 20 Broccoli cheese/salad bar/cheddar biscuit 27 Chicken-rice soup/salad bar/cheddar biscuit

T T

10 Sausage casserole/veggie medley/ veggie Jell-O/fruit cocktail/Texas toast

17 Meatloaf/roasted red potatoes/peas/ fruit cocktail/roll/cookie

3 Chicken-fried steak/mashed potatoes/corn/applesauce/roll 24 Company casserole/winter mix/pickled beets/Jell-O with fruit/Texas toast 31 Roast beef/mashed potatoes/baby carrots/juice/roll/cake and ice cream

12 Barbecued meatballs/pasta Alfredo/ sunshine carrots/pears/juice/roll

M W TH F

19 Biscuits ’n’ gravy/hash browns/carrots/applesauce/cook’s choice dessert

26 Pork fritter/mashed potatoes/ veggie medley/peach crisp/roll

5 Chicken-fried steak/mashed potatoes/corn/fruit

M W TH F

10 Lasagna/garlic bread/veggies/pears 12 Baked cod/wild rice/cole slaw/peaches 19 Egg rolls/Japanese veggies/brown rice/pears 26 Polish sausage/cabbage/potatoes/fruit cocktail/roll

17 Chicken/pesto pasta/diced beets/pineapple

MOSCOW SENIOR NUTRITION PROGRAM — When: Noon, Tues./Thurs. • Where: 1912 Center, 412 E. Third St. or call (208) 310-3779 for delivery. Cost: $5 suggested for seniors 60 and older; $7 for nonseniors. • Notes: Soup (starting at 10:30 a.m.), salad bar (at 11:30 a.m.) and dessert are available daily. Menu is subject to change. • Online: users.moscow.com/srcenter. 3 Waffles/sausage/omelet/cantaloupe/carrot salad 24 Chili mac/spinach/whole-wheat rolls/peaches 31 Pot roast/mashed potatoes/green beans/fruit

TREGIONAL SENIOR MEAL SITES

Cottonwood Community Hall

506 King St., basement, Cottonwood, (208) 792-2465, meals at noon Tuesdays.

Craig Mountain Senior Center 413 Nezperce St., Winchester, (208) 924-6581, meals at noon Wednesdays.

Daley Senior Care

30302 Harley Lane, Culdesac, (208) 791-7438, meals at 1 and 4 p.m. daily.

Friendly Senior Citizens of Troy

100 S. Main St., Troy, (208) 835-6092, dine-in or pick-up; noon Nov. 5 and 19.

Grangeville Senior Center

108 Truck Route, Grangeville, (208) 983-2033, meals

are at noon on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

Juliaetta-Kendrick Senior Citizens Center

104 S. Sixth St., Kendrick, (208) 289-5031, meals from noon to 1 p.m. on Wednesdays and Fridays.

Kamiah Senior Center

125 N. Maple St., Kamiah, (208) 935-0244, meals at noon on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

Lewiston Community Center

1424 Main St., Lewiston, (208) 743-6983, meals at noon on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Moscow Senior Center

412 E. Third St., Moscow, (208) 882-1562, noon Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Nezperce Senior Citizens

501 Cedar St., Nezperce, (208) 937-2465, noon Mondays and Thursdays.

Orofino Senior Center

930 Michigan Ave., Orofino, (208) 476-4238, noon Tuesdays and Fridays.

Palouse Senior Meals

220 E. Main St., Palouse, (509) 878-2301, meals at noon on Wednesdays.

Pomeroy Senior Center

695 Main St., Pomeroy, (509) 843-3308,

noon Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

Potlatch Senior Citizens

Potlatch Senior Citizens Meal Site, 645 Pine St., Potlatch, (208) 875-1071, meals at noon Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

Pullman Senior Center

190 SE Crestview St., Building B, Northside Entrance, Pullman, (509) 338-3307, meals at noon on Tuesdays and Fridays.

Riggins Odd Fellows Building

121 S. Lodge St., Riggins, (208) 628-4147, meals at noon on Tuesdays.

Spud Hill Seniors

401 Line St., Deary, (208) 877-1717, meals at noon on Tuesdays.

Valley Community Center

549 Fifth St., Clarkston, (509) 758-3816, noon Tues-days, Thursdays, Fridays.

Weippe Hilltop

Senior Citizens Center

115 First St. W., Weippe, (208) 435-4553, meals at noon Mondays and Thursdays.

Pullman Meals on Wheels (509) 397-4305. Valley Meals on Wheels (208) 799-5767.