monthly magazine for the region’s seniors
SATURDAY, DEC. 7, 2024/VOL. 34, NO. 12
EDITOR: Dallas Marshall, (208) 848-2232/ dmarshall@lmtribune.com
SUBMISSION DEADLINE for the January issue is 5 p.m. Dec. 15.
GOLDEN TIMES: P.O. Box 957, Lewiston, ID 83501 goldentimes@lmtribune.com ON THE COVER: Rex King helps grandson Casey King, 3, cut down a tree in 2023 east of Deary. Photo by Liesbeth Powers, of Golden Times. TIMES
What resolutions do you have for 2025? Let fellow Golden Times readers know what positive changes you are planning to make in the new year.
In 150 words or less, tell us what your resolution is and how you plan on achieving it. Send your contributions via email to dmarshall@lmtribune.com by Dec. 20. They will appear in the January edition of Golden Times.
> DEC. 6
Eldon R. Berlin, 80
Eldon R. Berlin was born in American Falls, Idaho, to William and Florence Berlin. He and his family moved to the Lewiston-Clarkston Valley in 1948.
now include taking care of and enlarging his Koi pond and trying to keep his wife, Vickie, in check (not doing too well on that). Eldon was in the Lewis-Clark motorcycle club in Lewiston from 1961-72.
In 1975, Eldon married Patty and gained a bonus daughter, Kimmy. They divorced in 1981. He married Vickie on June 15, 1982, in Clarkston and they have two daughters. He also has ve grandchildren.
Eldon will celebrate his birthday with his family at a later date.
In 1958, Eldon worked as a paper delivery boy for the Lewiston Morning Tribune on a bicycle, and later he had a moped and worked at Sears. He was severely injured in a car/motorcycle accident in 1960. In 1964, he started as a parts runner for Adams Auto Sales and part-time edgling mechanic. Later that year, he started working for Ray’s Cycle in Lewiston as a full-time motorcycle, snowmobile and ATV mechanic. He has wonderful memories of being a member of the Kaufman enterprise. He fully retired in August 2006.
In his younger years, Eldon raced crosscountry motorcycles around the region and did some car drag racing as a partner with Donnie Jackson. He even won some national records. His hobbies
To submit birthdays: 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 Dallas Marshall at dmarshall@ lmtribune.com or (208) 848-2232. January birthday announcements must be received by 5 p.m. Dec. 15.
For the LewistonClarkston Valley
> Monday-Friday
Coffee, 10 a.m. to noon, Valley Community Center, 549 Fifth St., Clarkston.
> Monday, Wednesday, Friday
Coffee, 10 a.m. to noon, $1 donation, Sixth Street Senior Center, 832 Sixth St., Clarkston.
Fit and Fall Proof, 9-9:45 a.m., Congregational Presbyterian Church, 709 Sixth St., Lewiston.
Fit and Fall Proof, 10:4511:30 a.m., Orchards United Methodist Church, 1213 Burrell Ave., Lewiston.
> Mondays and Wednesdays
Yoga/low-impact
> Mondays and Thursdays
S.A.I.L. (Fit & Fall Prevention) class, 10:30-11:30 a.m., Valley Community Center.
> Mondays and Fridays
Fit and Fall Proof, 10-11 a.m., Emmanuel Baptist Church, 2200 11th Ave., Lewiston.
> Mondays
Painting group, noon to 4 p.m., Valley Community Center.
Dance practice, 6-7:30 p.m., Sixth Street Senior Center.
> Tuesdays
Blood pressure checks, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Valley Community Center.
> Tuesdays and Thursdays
> Wednesdays
Bridge, 12:30-4 p.m., Valley Community Center.
Line dancing, 2 p.m. and 3:15 p.m., Valley Community Center. Zumba, 5:30 p.m., Sixth Street Senior Center.
> Thursdays
Footcare, Valley Community Center. By appointment only: (253) 218-7091.
Line dancing, 10:30 a.m., Valley Community Center. Card games, 1-3 p.m., Valley Community Center.
> Fridays Country jam, 10 a.m. to noon, Sixth Street Senior Center.
Fit and Fall Proof, 8:159:15 a.m., Elks Lodge, 3444 Country Club Drive, Lewiston.
> Sundays
Dance lessons, 5 p.m., Sixth Street Senior Center.
> Dec. 10 and 24
Foot care, Valley Community Center. By appointment only: (253) 218-7091. Karaoke, 6:30-9 p.m., Valley Community Center.
> Dec. 19
Potluck and dancing, 6-8:30 p.m., Valley Community Center.
> Dec. 21
Sons of Norway, 12:30-3 p.m., Valley Community Center.
> Dec. 23
Seaport Quilters, 6-9 p.m., Valley Community Center.
To submit your event for the senior calendar, email goldentimes@lmtribune. com. For more information about events at the Sixth Street Senior Center, see the calendar at sixthstreetsrcenter.com.
We know baby Jesus is the main focus of the Christmas story, but what about the supporting characters? Many children reenact this morethan-2,000-year-old event as a celebration of his birth. Joseph stands silently, Mary smiles down at her baby, the shepherds kneel in the straw by the manger and the animals hang out around the fringe of the scene. Have you considered the story from their point of view?
The animals gave way to the people huddled in their shelter. The shepherds reeled, terrified from the sudden appearance of an angel talking to them, then multitudes singing in the sky. It was unreal, earth shaking, momentous. Could it be true? Their ancestors passed on the hope of a peacemaker for hundreds of years. They were nobodies, the lowest class. Why did they get this message in the sky? I would have been shocked. I would have doubted. I would have thought, “This is impossible.”
The intense sight propelled them from the fields into town. They didn’t give a thought of how they looked, how they smelled or who would watch their sheep. No one had experienced this before. As they looked at the baby in the stable, they felt an inner change. They left, dancing through Bethlehem, shouting out the news to everyone. Did they stay watchers of sheep? How did the people view them? They must have seen a change in their character.
Joseph, a carpenter, a man of honor and good character, stood by his wife-to-be in a time when
they both could have been stoned to death, according to the laws. The only time we see him in the story is when an angel comes in a dream to tell him what was to come. When Joseph woke up, he did exactly what the angel commanded. He married Mary. He took her to his hometown, Bethlehem, to sign up for the census. He protected her and found shelter in a cave where animals were kept because the town’s inns were full. I imagine this kind, caring man was humiliated by not being able to give his wife better surroundings when she went into labor. Did he feel like a failure as a husband?
Mary, a young teenager, had a visit too. An angel entered the room and announced, “Good morning! You’re beautiful with God’s beauty. Beautiful inside and out! God be with you.” That would have shocked my socks off.
She was thoroughly shaken. I wonder if she screamed, cried
out or shrank in fear. There must have been some kind of physical reaction because the angel said, “Mary, you have nothing to fear. God has a surprise for you. You’ll become pregnant and give birth to a son and call his name Jesus.”
I would have denied, ran away, sought help. I can almost hear the angel’s voice quietly explaining the plan to her; who the baby was going to be, what he was going to do and what part she would play in his life. Her final response to the news was, “Yes, I see it all now. I’m the Lord’s maid, ready to serve. Let it be with me just as you say.”
Nine months must have seemed like forever to young Mary. It was good to have dependable Joseph supporting her, defending her, understanding the purpose for their lives. I would have had deep doubts about traveling the long distance during the time to deliver ... even greater doubts when it became
apparent birthing would happen in a stinky animal shelter with no bed but straw. How many times did Mary complain about the circumstances or did she just accept it? The angel’s announcements to Mary and Joseph were affirmed by the shepherds who came to see the baby. Every person in the story carried out their part and was full of joy because of this baby.
A baby changes everything but this baby changed the world. Each person in the story had a vital role. Human history’s timeline is split in two by Jesus’ birth. Peace comes inside souls even now, because this promised baby grew into the most influential man who ever lived. His human life was cut short but his existence has no beginning or end. It is forever.
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 Oro no area. Information and other volunteer openings can be found at waidvolunteercenter.org or by calling (208) 746-7787. Volunteer needs include:
Tutors — Help students to be pro cient readers by the third grade. Oneon-one reading tutoring in schools for students below reading grade level. Volunteers need to be able to commit to at least an hour a week for the school year. Background check required.
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.
AARP tax preparer — Do you feel comfortable with computers? Can you spare a couple of mornings a week? AARP Tax Aide Program needs volunteers to help prepare free basic tax returns for seniors and lowincome individuals. No experience necessary. Training and materials are provided.
Project Warmup — Cra ers are needed to make hats, scarves, mittens and lap blankets (yarn is provided). Completed items are donated to local nonpro t agencies. If you have yarn to donate, our volunteers will put it to good use.
Companions — The Senior Companion program provides companionship and respite care to the elderly and disabled. It allows low-income senior volunteers an opportunity to assist those who need minor help to continue living independently. Senior Companions visit clients in their homes, but it is not an in-home care program.
Medicare counselor — The State Health Insurance Bene ts Advisors (SHIBA) program trains volunteers to assist local seniors with Medicare questions for Asotin, Gar eld and Whitman counties.
Local hospital auxiliary
— Volunteers are needed to greet people, deliver owers, sta the courtesy cart, deliver mail, assist in the gi shop, create baby and child items, do clerical work, provide hospital tours and more.
Lewiston City Library
— Volunteer needs include circulation support, tech tutors and
programming support.
Museum docents — Skills include meet-andgreet abilities, friendly personality and the ability to answer questions about the displays at the center. Training is provided.
Transportation —
Drive seniors or disabled community members to and from destinations across the LewistonClarkston Valley. Volunteeers must have a valid driver’s license and auto insurance.
Garden and park volunteers — General lawn maintenance, weeding, sweeping, etc. Training provided. Community service approved.
Interlink Inc. is a nonpro t organization in Clarkston that matches community volunteers to people needing assistance to remain independent in their own homes. For information about becoming a volunteer and volunteer opportunities, call (509) 751-9143. Volunteer applications and additional information also can be found online at interlinkvolunteers.org. Volunteer needs include:
Drivers to transport senior citizens to appointments. Drivers are
paid a mileage stipend.
People who can do small home safety repairs for senior citizens and persons with disabilities.
Volunteers interested in serving as volunteer helpers in the Interlink office.
Volunteers willing to help compile a senior social directory.
Volunteers interested in working on fundraising events, especially this year’s Christmas Concert.
Drop off your used sharps for safe disposal
Every Thursday at Asotin County Health District 2pm-5:30pm
All sharps must be in a hard and sealed container for drop off Containers must have been emptied and thoroughly rinsed. Pick up a free sharps container anytime!
By KATIE KELTON BANKRATE.COM
Imagine you’ve got the perfect holiday gift idea for your kiddo, but it’s sold out in stores. Luckily, you found a seller online who can ship the gift for a low price! They send you a link to their digital payment account so you can pay for the gift in advance. After all, the item is popular, and you want to get it before someone else does.
Spoiler: The gift never arrives. When you ask the seller about it, they ghost you. Now you’re out $100 and still don’t have anything to wrap.
More than 2 in 5 holiday shoppers (42%) plan to shop online this season, according to Bankrate’s 2024 Early Holiday Shopping Survey.
Further, more than half of Americans (54%) say they made at least one impulse purchase last holiday season, according to Bankrate’s 2024 Holiday Spending Report.
But just like online shopping and advertising are up during the holidays, so are scams. I asked Chip Kohlweiler, senior vice president of security at Navy Federal Credit Union, about the most common online scams he sees.
As a cybersecurity expert, he also gave me a few tips for avoiding scams this season.
6 common online scams to watch for during the holidays
Whether you’re ordering gifts, recovering from weather events or getting end-of-year communications from your bank, you may be vulnerable to online scams.
Keep an eye out for these frauds as you scroll.
1. Puppy scams
Getting a new puppy can be an exciting, emotional time. And that’s when scammers want to catch you.
“The number one way that people get tricked out of sending their money is puppy scams,” Kohlweiler says.
Puppy scams look like an online listing with photos of a litter or specific breed, posted by someone claiming to be a breeder. The price might be lower than usual, and they’ll ask for a deposit or the full payment upfront. Be alert if the “breeder” refuses a phone or video call and prefers to communicate by email or direct message.
“One of the reasons why it’s a really good price is because you’re not actually going to get your dog, but they want a $1,000 deposit,” Kohlweiler explains.
Once you send the money, you probably won’t hear back from the “breeder” — and there definitely won’t be a puppy under the tree this year.
The Better Business Bureau warns against websites or personal sellers offering discounts on popular toys that are sold out in stores. When customers make a purchase from the site, they either receive a cheap counterfeit product or nothing at all.
As Kohlweiler advises, “Around the holiday shopping (season) — it’s a cliche
— but if a deal is too good to be true, it probably is.”
Scams have also gotten more sophisticated in recent years. If you click a link from a social media ad or pop-up, it may take you to a fraudulent website. But Kohlweiler says, with generative AI, scam sites are harder to spot. He advises going directly to a website to shop, instead of following a link or search result.
3. Facebook Marketplace scams
If you’ve ever bought or sold something on Facebook Marketplace, chances are you’ve dealt with at least one scammer. Sometimes it’s obvious, but other times, it may take a few messages — or a mistake — before you catch on. Some scammers list items, cars or rental property and ask for payment via payment app or gift
cards. It might sound like a bargain if your own child is asking for baseball cards for Christmas.
But remember, “You don’t really know this person,” Kohlweiler says. He notes that sending payment ahead of time is like mailing cash in an envelope — unusual and risky.
Other scammers pretend to buy something from you but ask for your phone number and two-factor authentication so they can impersonate you. Or, they might pretend to overpay you and ask for a refund.
If you’re buying or selling on Facebook Marketplace this season, be on high alert. Don’t message people outside of Facebook Messenger. And only give or accept money in person, at the same time as the item is being handed off.
4. Package delivery scams
a package, visit the carrier’s website directly or give them a call to get your tracking info.
5. Natural disaster scams
Unfortunately, scammers come out of the woodwork after natural disasters. Kohlweiler recently spent an afternoon helping a credit union member who fell victim to a car buying scam. The member was trying to buy a car after his was lost in a recent hurricane.
While natural disasters happen year round, things like storms and hail are more common during the winter and may cause damage to your home, car or property.
give you a call for a onetime code. They call you, capture a voice recording and ask for your code. Now, they have two forms of your two-factor authentication.
“The bad guys are using your information and (two-factor authentication) to try and circumvent those controls,” Kohlweiler explains.
Bank impersonation scams can come in the form of a text (smishing) or email (phishing). Don’t respond to these messages. Instead, call your institution directly to ask about or report the situation.
sources, and it’s better to be safe than sorry.
l Trust your gut. If something feels off, why risk it? You want to do business with someone you trust. If the communication with the site or seller feels unusual in any way, opt to make your purchase elsewhere.
card before virtually disappearing. And they may have a convincing background story. Kohlweiler offers the following story as an example:
Facebook Marketplace scam example
The seller’s son just went off to college and they’re cleaning out his baseball card collection, offering a good deal on baseball
As packages fly around the world during the holiday season, you may be expecting a few on your doorstep. But if you get a text from someone claiming to be the U.S. Postal Service or another carrier, don’t click on any links.
Package delivery scams usually come as a text or email that says one of your packages has failed to be delivered or additional information from you is needed. But they’re trying to get your personal information.
If you want to check on
Don’t get scammed by offers of financial assistance — they may want your personal information — or when paying for repairs or replacement — they may not complete the job or deliver what’s promised.
6. Bank impersonation scams
The number one scam that Kohlweiler sees among Navy Federal members is fraudsters pretending to be Navy Federal. It often starts with a text message. Kohlweiler gives the following example:
You get a text saying it’s your bank to confirm whether you’re trying to transfer money to someone else. “Press 1 for yes, 2 for no,” they say. You press 2. The text confirms your response and says they’ve blocked the transfer. They just need to
How to spot scams and keep your money safe this holiday season
If you’re shopping online this season, here are a few rules of thumb to avoid getting scammed:
l If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Be wary of sales or limited-time offers on popular items. Scammers try to create a sense of urgency so that you’ll act quickly. Instead, take the time to investigate whether it’s a reputable site or seller.
l Go straight to the source. Avoid clicking links from an ad, a text or an email from a retailer or banking institution. Instead, visit their website or app directly or give them a call. Scammers have gotten better at replicating messages from trusted
l Check with someone else. If you’re not sure whether you’re being scammed, ask a trusted person who’s not as emotionally invested in the decision as you. Kohlweiler encourages his dad to give him a call if he ever feels suspicious about a purchase.
l Know how to handle credit card fraud. If a scammer gains access to your credit card information and makes unauthorized purchases, you have rights when facing credit card fraud. Many cards offer zero-liability fraud protection, and the Fair Credit Billing Act allows you to dispute credit card errors. The bottom line
Glad tidings bring scammers out of hiding, so it’s good to know about common scams and how to spot them. Try purchasing holiday gifts from trusted retailers or sellers. And avoid clicking on links from unknown senders. Instead, visit the website or app directly.
Cottonwood Community Hall
506 King St., basement, Cottonwood, (208) 7922465, meals at noon Tuesdays.
Craig Mountain Senior Center
413 Nezperce St., Winchester, (208) 9246581, meals at noon Wednesdays.
Daley Senior Care
30302 Harley Lane, Culdesac, (208) 791-7438, meals at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. daily.
Friendly Senior Citizens of Troy
100 S. Main St., Troy, (208) 835-6092, dine-in or pick-up; noon Wednesdays.
Grangeville Senior Center
108 Truck Route, Grangeville, (208) 9832033, meals are at noon Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
Juliaetta-Kendrick Senior Citizens Center
104 S. Sixth St., Kendrick, (208) 289-5031, meals from noon to 1 p.m. Wednesdays and Fridays.
Kamiah Senior Center
125 N. Maple St., Kamiah, (208) 935-0244, meals at noon Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
Lewiston Community Center 1424 Main St., Lewiston, (208) 743-6983, meals at
noon 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 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 Tuesdays and Fridays.
Riggins Odd Fellows Building 121 S. Lodge St., Riggins,
(208) 628-4147, meals at noon Tuesdays.
Spud Hill Seniors
401 Line St., Deary, (208) 877-1717, meals at noon Tuesdays.
Senior Round Table
549 Fifth St., Clarkston, (509) 295-8685, noon Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays.
Weippe Hilltop Senior Citizens Center
115 First St. W., Weippe, (208) 435-4553, meals noon Mondays and Thursdays.
Pullman Meals on Wheels (509) 397-4305.
Valley Meals on Wheels (208) 799-5767.
An announcement in Italian came over the intercom, and suddenly everyone rose and began to leave the Trieste airport waiting room. I was there to catch a plane to Frankfurt on my way home to Idaho for Christmas.
“What’s happening?” I asked someone who spoke English. I learned that all ights to Frankfurt were canceled because the airport remen were on strike there.
I had made reservations leaving as late as possible before the holiday so that I would miss only a few days of teaching classes. Now I realized I might not be able to get home because it was so close to the holidays that ights might already be lled. Nevertheless, I followed the crowd to the desk where everyone was rebooking their ights. Last in line, I didn’t expect much success and was mentally preparing to be disappointed. But yes, it was possible to get a ight out the very next day.
This all happened at little Ronchi airport several miles west of Trieste, Italy. My good friend and colleague at the college, Silva, had insisted on driving me there even though we would have to leave Slovenia at 4 a.m. A er arriving, we had enjoyed a latte before she le to drive back to Slovenia. So there I was,
stranded. But best to just go back to the college and teach my classes. I went to the car rental o ce, got a car and drove back to Slovenia where I arrived just before lunchtime. While I was sitting at my desk in the teachers’ o ce, Silva walked in, gasped and did a double take when she saw me.
“Why are you so surprised to see me?” I asked. “A er all it is my day to teach.”
She stared a moment mouth agape, and said, “Did I just dream I took you to the airport?” A er I explained the situation, she said it had seemed completely unreal and like the world had suddenly tilted.
Luckily for her, I had my rental car so she didn’t need to drive me to the airport again the next day. Everything went as planned and I got home with no further problems. The trip back to Europe
Scheduled to teach the next morning, I had to use my kitchen spatula to scrape half-an-inch of ice from my car windows. Skill, born here in Idaho from driving on slick roads, served me well. Again there were very few vehicles traveling, and at school few teachers and even fewer students showed up. Unused to such weather, almost everyone indulged in a cozy day at home.
was almost as big an adventure as leaving it. As we ew over Europe I was surprised to see snow covering everything. That was very unusual in some areas. Silva had told me she would pick me up at Ronchi airport. But while I was changing planes in Frankfurt, she called my Nokia phone and said she didn’t know if she could get to the airport because a blizzard had closed the autostrada (Italy’s autobahn). She would let me know, but if she couldn’t get there I should take the bus into
Trieste and she’d meet me there.
Fortunately Silva was able to reach the airport by driving through downtown Trieste and along the Mediterranean seacoast road. She was a welcome sight, for sure. We slowly retraced the route she had used and got back to Slovenia just ne.
While we were stopping for pizza, the Nokia rang again. This time it was my landlady who was worried about me getting back OK. I told her the roads were icy and there had been very little tra c but Silva managed well.
A colleague who lived in Trieste said the streets of that hilly city were so steep and untravelable that food had to be delivered by helicopter to the hospital on the hill above town. She also told of a hilarious scene with one of the tiny, three-wheeled pickup trucks used in vineyards creeping up a steep road as two men sitting on the back tossed out handfuls of salt.
Necessity is the mother of invention.
Johnson, of Grangeville, worked in three different European countries — Hungary, Czech Republic and Slovenia — in the 1990s and early 2000s. She can be reached at johnsondixie@hotmail.com.
When I hear popular songs of the 1940s and ’50s, I smile both inside my heart and brain, and, of course, outside on my face. The songs bring back pleasant memories from childhood to marriage, nostalgic reminiscences of another time in other places with people of my past.
The rst World War II song I remember was “There’s a Star Spangled Banner Waving Somewhere.”
The song that probably best exempli es this feeling of the past for me is “As Time Goes By,” which was a 1943 hit. I do not remember it in 1943, but all of my life whenever I hear it, it makes me think of the past and that time is eeting and none of us lives forever.
The rst song I can remember was a 1935 hit called, “The Lady in Red,” which I recall my mother singing around the house. Some songs from my past were during World War II when I was a Gar eld Grade School student. We sang “Grandfather’s Clock,” “Columbia the Gem of the Ocean” and “Over There” in school.
When I was in the sixth grade, there was a 1945 hit called “Rum and Coca-Cola,” and it, like all the records, was on 78 rpms. When I was in the eighth grade, there was a funny song called “Civilization,” with words like, “Bingo, bango, bongo, I don’t wanna leave the Congo, oh no, no, no, no.” I had started to notice girls by that time and I remember KRLC radio playing it on a request program and girls from my class had called in; the host would say something like, “This next song is for Dick, Bud and Digger from Mary, Rosie and Shirley at Alice Rae’s house.” “Slow Boat to China” was also popular then and I remember some of the words like “I’d love to get you on a slow boat to China, all to myself alone.”
In 1948, I remember playing baseball in Yakima and hearing Margaret Whiting singing, “Tree in the Meadow,” and I liked
it then and still do. One of my favorite songs of 1947 was “Linda,” with words like, “When I go to sleep, I never count sheep, I count all the charms about Linda.” A popular instrumental tune then was, “Sabre Dance,” and my friend Digger played it on the piano at a party at Shirley’s house.
A couple of songs from my last two years of high school were “Goodnight Irene” and “Tennessee Waltz.” Those songs are ballads that tell stories like, “Last Saturday night I got married. Me and my wife settled down. Now me and my wife are parting. Gonna take another stroll downtown. Goodnight Irene, goodnight Irene. I’ll see you in my dreams.” The words go on to say that the man contemplates suicide as told in these words, “Sometimes I take a great notion to jump in the river and drown.” His wife has le him for another man and for him to succeed in marriage he must “stop rambling, stop gambling and stop staying out late at night.”
Parade was and is a big, fun event at the University of Idaho, and all of us living groups spend many hours making our oats for the parade. We Phi Delts thought we had a winner, but a rival fraternity won with a big cake that said, “We knew you were coming so we baked you a cake.” They had the popular song “If I Knew You Were Comin’ I’d’ve Baked a Cake” playing. Other 1952 songs I remember include “Wheel of Fortune” by Kay Starr; “Cry” by Johnnie Ray; “You Belong to Me” by Jo Sta ord and “Your Cheatin’ Heart” by Hank Williams. I remember those songs playing on the front lawn of my fraternity house as we watched the girls walk by.
I remember hearing “You Belong to Me” on my car radio and in a tavern or two (or three). The lyrics were, “See the pyramids along the Nile, watch the sun rise on a tropic isle, just remember, darling, all the while, you belong to me.”
husband was with her and we bought them a drink. Johnny Ray put on a concert at the University of Idaho when I was a student there, and when he sang “Cry,” he ended up on the oor acting like he was crying. I was at ROTC Army summer camp in 1954. and I remember the song “Sh-boom” as I rode to Seattle with my friend Joe McDonald hearing the words, “Sh-boom bi-o, shboom do doody do,” etc.
A new, young singer named Elvis Presley had three top 1956 songs — “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Don’t Be Cruel” and “Hound Dog” — but I best recall “Cherry Pink and Apple Blossom White” and “Green Door.” I was in the U.S. Army in South Korea all of 1956, and I remember hearing very good Japanese bands and singers playing those songs in Tokyo. I also heard them in Korea on the radio station AFKN (Armed Forces Korean Network). “Green Door” made us think of our BOQ (bachelor o ce quarters) because it had a green door.
“Tennessee Waltz” is also about a man losing his wife to a friend. My girlfriend and classmates used to play it on the jukebox at Tony’s Diner in the 300 block of Lewiston’s Main Street. Tony’s Diner is long gone but “Tennessee Waltz” and all of the other songs are still available to us. My great-grandchildren will be able hear our 1940s and ’50s songs just as we heard them when they were new.
The Homecoming
Remembering a lady in a downtown tavern sing “Wheel of Fortune” brings a big smile, even laughter. A few of us college guys were sipping suds in a downtown bar when suddenly we heard a nice voice singing “Wheel of Fortune.” It was a lady dressed up and walking around the bar singing the “Wheel” song. We asked if she wanted money for her singing, and she said no — she was just happy because she had gotten married that day. Her new
A nal song I want to tell you about was 1960s “Theme from a Summer Place.” I remember it so well because I met my beloved Barbara that year and we got married Aug. 19. I remember hearing it with Barbara those many years ago.
Riggs, 90, is a lifelong Lewistonian. He’s an avid Warriors fan, a retired educator, coach and school superintendent and volunteers his time at the Nez Perce County Historical Society. He can be reached at bdriggo@gmail.com.
If we watch the images on television of family gathered around the table for the holidays, some will nd them familiar and others will nd them depressing. Losing elders who have always held these family events changes things. If one is fortunate, another family member will begin being the host and take over the duties of preparation. If no one does, it may begin a fracture in family connection.
I loved dinners at my mother’s table, with real china plates, crystal goblets and linen napkins.
A er her home was sold, none of us have a house large or close enough to hold these events. So, we’ve resorted to smaller and more casual gatherings. Paper plates have replaced the dish washing, but the food tastes the same thanks to old recipe cards hand printed and treasured.
There may be fewer biological family members around the table, but more who aren’t. New friends may sit in for the absent. As the next holiday approaches I think about how much I have for which to be grateful.
There are still family and friends who have shown me thoughtfulness this year. When I was unable to attend a writer’s meeting, the group came to me.
Some brought food when I was injured, even though I thought it wasn’t necessary. I just didn’t realize how important these small things could be. It is the presence of a person that matters. Just knowing that someone cares enough to make the gesture has healing power.
I am so grateful that my eyes still work well enough to see the beauty in our world
and the people around us. Sometimes we have to look beneath the surface to nd that beauty, but it’s there if we take the time to scout it out. Our valley has had spectacular color this fall and the watercolor sunsets
have been astounding. The two rivers that we are blessed to have teach us to keep moving, changing and creating new paths. Sitting on the banks and listening to the water rush by is such a pleasing soothing sound.
We live in a country where we are o ered more freedom of selfdetermination than many others. The price for this has been and still is paid by our military. The yover, national anthem and ag presentation at the Lewiston Roundup gave me hope that pride and patriotism in our country still exists. When things get tough, the country can come together, the people unite and challenges can be overcome. Despite tough economic times, I see people in this area give to others in so
many ways. It’s heartening to see groups online where one person expresses a need and another freely meets it at no charge. It is my belief that people do want to help others, but sometimes need direction. When I’ve asked for assistance with small tasks, I’ve been amazed at how many people are willing to come to my rescue. My neighbors watch out for one another which is so comforting and makes me feel safe.
Other holidays are ahead and will o er opportunity for each of us to give in some way. The Toys for Tots and Christmas Con-
nection are both worthy of your consideration. Giving to someone I don’t even know brings me a certain satisfaction. I hope you took a minute to count your blessings at Thanksgiving, and to pass some along as the Christmas holiday approaches.
Let’s keep this valley full of holiday love. Invite another to your table, give the gi of thoughtfulness by raking leaves, cleaning sidewalks, picking up trash or any way you can contribute to keeping us united, strong and beautiful.
Christiansen lives in Lewiston. She can be reached at petpal535@gmail.com.
It’s the right thing to do for you and your family. Here are ve important reasons to plan your funeral now:
1. You’ll protect your family from unnecessary pain & expense.
2. You’ll say goodbye in a way that uniquely re ects your personal style — not someone else’s.
3. You’ll lessen the nancial burden. Our easy payment plans make it easy for you to comfortably pay for your funeral over time, at today’s prices, so your family won’t have to nd the money later.
4. You’ll minimize disputes between your well-meaning relatives.
5. You’ll show your love in a way your family will never forget. What You Need to Know About Prearranging Why Should I Prearrange Services?
1225 E. 6th Street • Moscow, ID (208) 882-4534 www.shortsfuneralchapel.com 638131B
Royal Plaza Health and Rehabilitation of Cascadia, is a leading healthcare provider in rehabilitation and long term skilled nursing care. Our mission is to provide personalized care for each of our patients that enhances their well-being and quality of life.
Focusing on patient centered rehabilitation with 24- hour skilled nursing care, Royal Plaza team creates custom treatment plans for each patient and resident, focusing on individual needs and goals.
Royal Plaza has been serving the L.C. Valley and surrounding areas for over 30 years. We would like to thank the Community for their continued support in allowing us to provide care for your loved one in a homelike and comfortable environment.
support
By SHAWN CHEN ASSOCIATED PRESS
NEW YORK — It’s time for the holidays, which means robust family conversations and seemingly never-ending courses of food. But for the more tech-savvy among us, the journey home could also mean we’ll be called on to provide a backlog of tech support to parents, grandparents and other family members.
And with generative artificial intelligence being used to supercharge some major cyber scams this year, it’s also a good time to teach and not just fix.
Here are some tips on how to manage your tech encounters this holiday season:
Whether it’s Windows, macOS, iOS or Android, simply keeping your operating system and apps up-to-date will help protect your family’s computers and devices against a surprising number of security threats, such as malware, viruses and exploits.
Most operating systems, especially those for mobile devices and their app stores, typically have auto-updates turned on by default. Be sure to doublecheck the device to make sure it has enough storage space to carry out the update. (More on this below.)
Keeping apps updated may also reduce the number of “Why isn’t
this app working?” type of questions from your relatives.
Freeing up storage space
Chances are someone in your family is going to have a completely full mobile device. So full, in fact, that they can no longer update their phone or tablet without having to purge something first.
There are many approaches to freeing up space. Here are a few you can easily take without having to triage data or apps.
l Use the cloud to back up media: iPhone users can free up space occupied by songs and pictures by storing them on iCloud. Android users can use the Google Photos app to back up and store their photos on their user space.
l Clear browsing data: Each major browser has an option to clear its data cache — cookies, search and download histories,
autofill forms, site settings, sign-in data and so on. Over time, these bits take up a significant amount of storage space on mobile devices and home computers. So cleaning caches out periodically helps free up space and, in some cases, improves system performance.
What’s my password?
According to some admittedly unscientific studies, the average person has hundreds of passwords. That’s a lot to remember. So as you help your relatives reset some of theirs, you may be tempted to recycle some to keep things simple for them. But that’s one of the bad password habits that cybersecurity experts warn against. Instead, try introducing your forgetful family member to a password manager. They’re useful tools for simplifying and keeping track of logins. And if
you want to impress a more tech-savvy cousin or auntie, you could suggest switching to a more secure digital authentication method: passkeys. Educate your loved ones about the latest scams
As scammers find new ways to steal money and personal information, you and your family should be more vigilant about who to trust. AI and other technologies are giving bad actors craftier tools to work with online.
A quick way to remember what to do when you think you’re getting scammed is to think about the three S’s, said Alissa Abdullah, also known as Dr. Jay, Mastercard’s deputy chief security officer.
“Stay suspicious, stop for a second (and think about it) and stay protected,” she said.
Simply being aware of typical scams can help,
The Asotin County Library Foundation has named Dennis Rousseau its “2024 Library Legacy Champion.”
Given his long-term, consistent, quality contributions, Dennis was a natural choice for the Foundation’s new recognition award according to Wanda Keefer, President. “His commitment to the community has been extraordinary.”
experts say. Robocalls frequently target vulnerable individuals like seniors, people with disabilities and people with debt. So-called romance scams target lonely and isolated individuals. Quiz scams target those who spend a lot of time on social media.
How fast is their WiFi?
Home internet speeds are getting faster, so you want to make sure your family members are getting a high-speed connection if they’ve paid for one. Run a broadband speed test on your home network if they’re still rocking an aging modem and router.
“I help, in order to make a difference,” said Rousseau. “Now, with my estate commitment to the Foundation, I can continue to help well into the future.”
The ACL Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Please reach us with any questions at: ACLF, Box 456, Clarkston, WA 99403, foundation@aclib.org (208) 205-7646.
“Every time I walk into our library, I see my donations in action. From capital improvements and new books to tech updates, it’s a great feeling to contribute.”
~Dennis Rousseau
Lewiston
HOT: Turkey/ stuffing/squash
SACK: Ham/ veggie cup/chocolate pudding
Menus are prepared by St. Joseph Regional Medical Center and are subject to change. 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 $4 per day or a hot meal and a sack lunch for $5 per day. More info: (208) 799-5767.
HOT: Pork loin/ rice/mushrooms SACK: Egg salad/cottage cheese/banana 9 10
HOT: Chicken cordon bleu/scalloped potatoes/broccoli
SACK: Tuna salad/garbanzo bean salad/Rice Krispie 15
HOT: Beef stew/roasted potatoes/carrots
SACK: Chicken salad/ spinach salad/cookie
HOT: Pot roast/ mashed potatoes/ carrots
SACK: Chicken salad/ crackers/banana pudding 16
HOT: Italian baked chicken/mashed potatoes/broccoli
SACK: Roast beef/marinated mushroom salad/bread pudding
HOT: Teriyaki chicken/rice/ cabbage
SACK: Roast beef/ pea salad/cake 17
SACK: Ham/ celery sticks and cucumber/orange 18
HOT: Lasagna/ corn
HOT: Tater Tot casserole/peas
SACK: Turkey/ tomato, rice and feta salad/mandarin oranges
HOT: Pork loin/stuffing/ cauliflower
SACK: Uncrustable/ carrot raisin salad/pears
HOT: Chicken strips/mac and cheese/green beans
SACK: Seafood salad/ chips/coleslaw 13
HOT: Tuna noodle casserole/green beans
SACK: Egg salad/potato salad/peach cobbler
HOT: Stroganoff/ noodles/cabbage
SACK: Turkey/ broccoli salad/ pineapple 7
HOT: Ribs/roasted potatoes/corn
SACK: Uncrustable/ green bean and onion salad/blondie dessert 14
HOT: Sweet and sour meatballs/ rice/peas
SACK: Turkey/green salad/cookie 21
22 23
HOT: Chicken fried steak/mashed potatoes/carrots
SACK: Uncrustable/ yogurt/apple
HOT: Turkey/ stuffing/squash
SACK: Ham/ veggie cup/chocolate pudding
HOT: Ham/ yams/corn
SACK: Seafood salad/ chips/peaches
HOT: Pork loin/ rice/mushrooms SACK: Egg salad/cottage cheese/banana
HOT: Veggie lasagna/ broccoli
SACK: Ham/pasta salad/Jell-O fluff 24
HOT: Beef stew/roasted potatoes/carrots
SACK: Chicken salad/ spinach salad/cookie
HOT: Chicken cordon bleu/mac and cheese/green beans
SACK: Egg salad/marinated cucumbers/cookie 25
HOT: Italian baked chicken/mashed potatoes/broccoli
SACK: Roast beef/marinated mushroom salad/bread pudding
HOT: Meatloaf/ baked beans/ cauliflower
SACK: Roast beef/pickled beet salad/applesauce
HOT: Tater Tot casserole/peas
SACK: Turkey/ tomato, rice and feta salad/mandarin oranges
HOT: Pasta bolognese/ peas
SACK: Tuna salad/ green salad/cake
HOT: Chicken strips/mac and cheese/green beans
SACK: Seafood salad/ chips/coleslaw
LEWISTON SENIOR NUTRITION PROGRAM — When: Noon, Mon./Tues. and 11:30 a.m. Wed.
HOT: Stroganoff/ noodles/cabbage
SACK: Turkey/ broccoli salad/ pineapple
HOT: Ribs/roasted potatoes/corn
SACK: Uncrustable/ green bean and onion salad/blondie dessert
Chicken enchiladas
Biscuits and sausage gravy/hash brown patty/sunshine carrots/Jell-O with fruit 9 Chili dog casserole
Home delivery only: Shepherd’s pie/pickled beets/mandarin oranges All meals served with: hot veggies, salad, fruit and bread. 24 Closed for holiday.
23 Spaghetti 24 Closed for holiday. 31 Birthday dinner: Roast pork/mashed potatoes/carrots/fruit juice/roll 25 Closed for holiday. 30 Hamburger gravy 31 Closed for holiday. 31 Salisbury steak/mashed potatoes/roll/green beans almondine
• Where: Lewiston Community Center, 1424 Main St., or call for delivery at (208) 743-6983. On-site meals are every Monday through Wednesday. • Cost: $4 suggested for seniors 60 and older; $5 for nonseniors • Note: Menu is subject to change.
Barbecue meatballs 16 Meatloaf 13 Chicken noodle soup/salad bar/ garlic toast
SENIOR ROUND TABLE NUTRITION PROGRAM — When: Noon, Tues./Thurs./Fri. • Where: Valley Community and Senior Center, 549 Fifth St., No. F, Clarkston, or call (509) 758-3816 for delivery. • Cost: Donations appreciated for seniors 60 and older; $7 for nonseniors • Note: Menu is subject to change.
12 Tater Tot casserole/veggie medley/pickled beets/pineapple/pudding with wafers
17 Turkey pot pie/fruit cocktail/ cookie
19 Hot dog/Tater Tots/veggie medley/ applesauce/chips
Closed for
When: Noon, Tues./Thurs.
20 Christmas dinner: Baked ham with pineapple/ sweet potatoes/green beans/fruit salad/roll/pie
27 Salisbury steak/mashed potatoes/veggie medley/peaches/roll
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.
10 Breaded cod/potato wedges/green beans/corn muffin
Hamburger/strawberries with whipped cream
26 Turkey tetrazzini/buttered peas and carrots/French bread MOSCOW SENIOR NUTRITION
Chicken fried rice/veggie egg roll/roasted carrots/mandarin oranges
19 Honey-glazed ham/roasted red potatoes/cauliflower/roll