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Senior Scene
Why annual Medicare prescription drug plan comparisons are important Should I compare my Prescription Drug Plan, also known as Medicare Part D, during the open enrollment period which runs from Oct. 15 – Dec. 7 every year? It is your choice. There are no requirements to compare or change plans every year. So, let’s discuss the pros and cons of using the enrollment process. The prescription drug plans offered by insurance companies are approved by Medicare for North Dakota every calendar year (January through December), so plans change from year to year. For example, in 2010, there were 46 plans available in North Dakota. In 2011, that number dropped to 33 and remained the same for 2012 and 2013. Last year there were 26. We do not know at this time how many companies will have plans approved for 2017, nor do we know how many plans each company will submit for approval. As a result, one potential downside of not participating in the annual enrollment period is the company you have a plan with this year may not offer plans in North Dakota next year. Unless you act, you could end up without coverage for 2017. If the company you enrolled in for your 2016 prescription drug plan offers plans in 2017, but not specifically the same plan you had, you may simply be rolled over into one of its other plans if you do nothing. This change could be costly. Each year a variety of things can be changed in the plans that may affect your out of pocket costs. This includes: – Monthly premium
ferent for each individual based 575-6611 or go online and enter your information at on current medications and www.medicare.gov. Make sure pharmacies used. When you consider the pros you have the following availand cons, it should be obvious able for whichever method you DAVID that it is in your best interest to choose: ZIMMERMAN – An up-to-date list of participate in open enrollment by completing a plan compari- your current medications that N.D. Insurance includes the name of the medson. The only cost is a small Department amount of your time. You can ication, the dosage and the number of times it is taken get a comparison in several amounts, though this is the ways. Attend one of the North each day. least significant factor in your – Your Medicare card. Dakota Insurance Department’s out-of-pocket costs for the year. free annual enrollment events. Again, the annual enrollMedicare has informed us the ment period is Oct. 15 through Others call 2-1-1 and submit average premium is remaining their information over the Dec. 7. All plan coverage berelatively flat again this year. gins Jan. 1, 2017. People who phone (this can be done two – You could end up with weeks prior to the Oct. 15 start enter the coverage gap, also a higher deductible. We know date for Open Enrollment called the donut hole, in 2017 the maximum allowed dewill receive a 60 percent disthrough the week before ductible for 2017 is going up count on brand name drugs Thanksgiving). $40 to $400. Last year more and a 49 percent discount on You may also call the Dethan half of the plans had the partment’s State Health Insur- generic drugs. Other cost sharhighest allowed deductibles. ing information is noted in the ance Counseling (SHIC) The greatest factor in deter- program toll-free number, 888- chart below. mining what you will pay outof-pocket is the result of changes made to the plan’s 2016 Prescription Drug Plan (Part D) 2017 formulary (list of covered medications). Medications you Cost Sharing purchase that were covered in 2016 2017 2016 may not be covered in 2017; this will result in you Deductible having to pay full price. The $360 $400 company can also change the tier levels for each of your medInitial coverage limit ications. Medications that were (total drug costs after deductible before hitting the donut hole assigned as Tier 1 in 2016 (the $3,310 $3,700 lowest price generics) can be changed to Tier 2 or 3; which Out-of-pocket threshold increases the cost you pay at (total amount paid before hitting the catastrophic phase) the pharmacy. These changes $4,850 $4,950 can be the most costly conseMinimum cost-sharing for generic drugs in the catastrophic phase quences of not participating in $2.95 $3.30 the open enrollment process. If, on the other hand, you Minimum cost-sharing for other drugs in the catastrophic phase choose to participate in the an(brand name) nual enrollment period for Part $7.40 $8.25 D, you will have the opportunity to select a plan that is best for you and your unique situation. These plans are very dif-
Fall 2016
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THE MINOT DAILY NEWS Office located at 301-4th St. SE, Minot. For inquiries, call: Advertising 857-1963 or toll free 1-800-735-3119
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Do you have story ideas? If you have story ideas, suggestions or comments about Senior Scene, please contact Kent Olson by phone at 857-1939 or via e-mail at kloson@minotdailynews.com.
Senior Scene is published quarterly by Minot Daily News. It is coordinated by Kent Olson.
Fall 2016
Senior Scene
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Thinking about old man winter It might sound funny as I write this on a 100-degree day in August, but winter is coming. Perhaps it’s a ridiculous notion to some, but for those of us who have lived in North Dakota for any extended period of time, it’s hardly mindboggling. Just today over lunch here at Somerset Court, Nurse Pat Richter commented that she didn’t think she’d turned her own air conditioning off since April … but she was pretty sure that on the day she does, she’ll probably turn on the furnace. Nobody laughed. For folks who have loved ones entering their later years of life, especially those whose health has begun to fail or who’ve lost a spouse or loved one recently, the thought of mom or dad, or grandmammy and grandpappy, enduring a winter living alone is a harrowing one. And as summer begins to wane, that winter is surely approaching. Winter in Minot, however mild, is nothing to underestimate. Winterizing a home is a daunting task on its own. Add in the upkeep like shoveling, and clearing off and warming up the car for that doctor visit or trip to the grocery store, and the perils for seniors are abundant. For these and many other reasons, the time may be now to start considering a move to an assisted living facility. Depending on which facility you choose, there won’t be any more need to worry about things like: Shoveling – Our staff makes sure the snow is cleared from the walkways and parking lots. Driving in wintry conditions – We have scheduled shopping outings to local stores with our multiple vehicles. We employ friendly drivers who get you to and from doctors’ and dentists’ appointments and can pick up your medications for you. Worried about maintaining your independence and want to keep your car? At Somerset
DAVE CALDWELL
Somerset Court Court, we offer a valet parking service. What does that mean? We’ll warm your car up, clear the snow off and pull it up under the awning of one of our entrances for you, then park it when you get back. Your heating bill – Or your electric, cable TV or even grocery bills for that matter. At most assisted living facilities, meals and utilities are already factored into your monthly payment. Isolation during bad weather – If you get snowed in at Somerset Court, you’ll have more than 100 neighbors to play cards, watch movies and play Bingo with. No need for your kids to worry about your furnace breaking down or your pipes freezing, we have multiple staff members on duty at all times to help keep you safe. We also issue wireless alert pendants so you can summon trained staff at all times of the day or night, with response times less than a minute in most instances. It’s understandable that many people feel that they aren’t “ready” yet, but in so many instances, the move into an assisted living facility spurs more activity and social interaction than living alone, which in turn results in a higher quality of life for you or your loved ones. In fact, one of the most common statements we hear from residents who have lived here for more than a few months is “I wished I would have moved here sooner.” (Dave Caldwell is a director at Somerset Court in Minot.)
Docs urge flu shots, not nasal spray, this year Senior Scene
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WASHINGTON (AP) — Kids may get more of a sting from flu vaccination this fall: Doctors are gearing up to give shots only, because U.S. health officials say the easyto-use nasal spray version of the vaccine isn't working as well as a jab. Needle-phobic adults still have some less painful options. But FluMist, with its squirt into each nostril, was the only ouch-free alternative, and has accounted for about a third of pediatric flu vaccinations in recent years. The problem: Studies from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found in the past few years, FluMist hasn't protected against certain influenza strains as well as regular flu shots. Baffled scientists can't explain why. The CDC says FluMist should not be used in the U.S. this year. Tuesday, the American Academy of Pediatrics agreed and urged youngsters to roll up their sleeves for a shot. "We're saying, 'Shoot, now we've got to do the poke again,'" said Dr. Wendy Sue Swanson of Seattle Children's Hospital and the AAP. But, "we know the flu vaccine is the best shot at prevention and protecting those who are vulnerable from serious and even life-threatening infections from influenza." Swanson has tricks to help ease tears and anxiety, like numbing the skin or distraction techniques like telling the youngster to cough on the count of three, coinciding with the poke. Sometimes the youngest feel braver by going first to show up older siblings. Swanson makes her own vaccination a family affair, parents and kids getting the shot together. But her top advice: Parents, don't lie and tell your
Fall 2016
versity and the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases. The FluMist recommendation could change for future flu seasons if researchers figure that out. It's still legal to sell FluMist, which is approved for ages 2 to 49. Manufacturer AstraZeneca said it plans to make a limited amount available in the U.S. in response to some health provider requests.
OTHER LESS OUCHY OPTIONS Two less ouchy gadgets are only for adults. A version of Sanofi's FluZone can be given "intradermally," using tiny needles to penetrate the skin instead of muscle. And a version of Seqiris' Afluria vaccine can be given in a needle-free device called a jet injector that forces the vaccine into a stream of fluid that penetrates the skin.
WHAT'S NEW FOR SENIORS
Nurse B.K. Morris, left, prepares to give the flu vaccine to Centers for Disease Control and PrePeople ages 65 and older vention Director Dr. Tom Frieden, during an event about the flu vaccine, at the National Press Club are especially vulnerable to flu's dangerous complicain Washington. AP Photo
kids the shot won't hurt. Instead, tell them "it might hurt a bit but it doesn't last long and you can do this." The FluMist mystery isn't the only vaccine news. Seniors are getting a new option made with an immune booster in hopes of more protection. Here are some other things to know:
But it sometimes kills even the healthy and young. The CDC says on average flu kills about 24,000 Americans each year, including about 100 children. If mom gets a flu shot during pregnancy, the vaccine also helps protect her baby during its first six months of life.
WHO NEEDS FLU VACCINE
WHEN TO GET THE SHOT
The CDC urges a yearly vaccination for just about everyone starting at 6 months of age. Flu is most dangerous for people over age 65, young children, pregnant women and people with certain health conditions such as asthma or heart disease.
Vaccinations are getting under way as shipments arrive at grocery stores, clinics and doctors' offices. Despite the FluMist problem, the CDC expects enough to meet the typical U.S. demand, between 157 million and 168 million shot doses.
WHAT HAPPENED Flu typically peaks in January or February but there's WITH FLUMIST no way to predict when it Earlier studies had sugwill begin spreading, and it gested FluMist actually protakes about two weeks for tected youngsters better than full protection to kick in. shots. It's not clear why, although FluMist is the only WILL I GET SICK Flu shots are made with vaccine made of live but killed flu virus, so you can't weakened flu virus. So it was a surprise when get the flu from them. But they're not perfect; CDC says CDC said earlier this spring they reduce the risk of flu by that scenario was flipping 50 percent to 60 percent. and FluMist was failing Sometimes people still catch against certain strains. One the flu but generally have a theory is that it has to do milder case than if they'd with a change in the nasal gone unvaccinated, or had spray's recipe to incorporate flu-like symptoms that were four strains of influenza incaused by a different virus. stead of three. "Having this scientific And occasionally, a strain starts circulating that wasn't puzzle really bothers everyincluded in the vaccine body," said Dr. William Schaffner of Vanderbilt Unirecipe.
tions because they tend to have more underlying health problems and standard flu shots don't work as well with their waning immune systems. One alternative to standard shots is Sanofi's HighDose Fluzone, containing four times the usual anti-flu ingredient. This year seniors have a second alternative, Seqiris' Fluad with "adjuvant," the first U.S. flu vaccine to contain an extra compound designed to rev up the immune system's response to the shot.
THE COST Insurance covers most flu vaccinations, often without a co-payment. For those paying out of pocket, prices can range between $32 and $40.
Senior Scene
Music keeps 97-year-old jazz saxophonist ticking in St. Paul
Fall 2016
ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — On a Tuesday night last month, St. Paul saxophonist Irv "Mr. Smooth" Williams celebrated his 97th birthday doing what he's done for nearly all of his life. He played music for a live audience, the Pioneer Press reported. When a member of the crowd at Minneapolis' Dakota Jazz Club shouted out a request, Williams paused and said he didn't know the song. "I am 97 years old, you know." When he introduced "What's New," he quipped: "What's new? In my case, nothing." Weeks later, Williams shared the reason why he continues to play: "It makes me very elated, very elated. Very good, very happy, all that good stuff." Raised in Cincinnati and Little Rock, Arkansas, Williams started playing music at the age of 6. He first picked up the flute, then tried the violin. He took up the saxophone at 12, when he was old enough to join the school band. "I liked that you had to be creative to play jazz music," he said. He went on to pursue music professionally and backed the likes of Ella Fitzgerald and Billy Eckstine. He enlisted in the Navy during World War II, which brought him to St. Paul in 1942. Despite invitations to tour with Duke Ellington, Count Basie and Louis Armstrong, Williams stayed in town, teaching in the St. Paul Public Schools and playing in venues all around town. What kept him in St. Paul? "I had kids, of course," he said. "That's about it. That's a long story." Lowell Pickett, owner of the Dakota Jazz Club, not only hosts Williams' annual birthday parties, he has him perform during happy hour
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Jazz musician Irv Williams plays his saxophone for a packed house at the Dakota Jazz Club in Minneapolis. Williams was celebrating his 97th birthday. Lowell Pickett, owner of the Dakota Jazz Club, not only hosts Williams' annual birthday parties, he has him perform during happy hour every Friday afternoon. AP Photo
every Friday afternoon. "We opened in August of 1985, and Irv has been playing, off and on, for the last 32 years," Pickett said. "He started at the Dakota at an age when most people are retired. He's one of the sweetest, kindest, gentlest people you can imagine. And, obviously, his tone is beautiful. That sweet wonderful tone, that's why he got the nickname 'Mr. Smooth.' Although he does have a way of communicating how he feels about things." Pickett then recounted a story from 20-some years ago, when an audience member asked if he'd play "Satin Doll." "He said, "Oh gosh, I must have played that song 500 times. A thousand times,
three thousand times. Man, I hate that song.' The person who asked for it told him he didn't need to play it. 'No, no, you asked for it. I'll be happy to play it for you.' And right before he put the horn to his mouth, he said, 'I sure hate this song.' He told me later that usually ends the requests." Guitarist Steve Blons has known Williams for decades and for the past two years has performed with him at the Dakota and also acted as a sort of surrogate son. He drives him to the club, handles the financial aspects of those performances and keeps an eye out for him. Williams lives in a complex that offers assisted living but maintains his own private apartment, prepares his own
food and manages his own medication. "He doesn't want anything to do with assisted living," Blons said. "He leads an independent life. "He's a very intelligent guy. His father was a physician, and Irv himself was heading toward medical school but changed his mind and wound up playing music. He does live with a lot of discomfort and pain and has several medical conditions that are ongoing and not particularly treatable. Some days, he just feels crappy. He's frustrated with what he's unable to do at this point, and some skills have deteriorated. But what remains still sounds remarkable." Music and people still
bring him joy, Blons said. "He's a flirt, although he denies it. Women always want to talk to him and he's very gracious in his public persona. People will come up and say hello, and whether he remembers them or not, he says he's glad to see them again. Unlike a lot of jazz musicians, who can be indifferent to the audience, he connects with people. He's not just a player." Williams was the first jazz musician the state of Minnesota granted his own day, back in 1984. He's since been showered with similar accolades. "He's got all the plaques and awards you can imagine," Blons said. "He told me a story about when he was honored by Norm Coleman, back when he was the mayor of St. Paul. Irv told Coleman, 'This is great, but where's the money?' "At the same time, he's never asked for a raise at the Dakota. When we were getting ready for this birthday gig, we sat down to figure out
what we were going to charge. One minute he says he doesn't care about money, then says 'Do I get more as a leader?' That's a quirky thing about him." When asked how many reeds he's gone through over the course of his life, Williams let out a loud, hearty laugh. "Well, I've been playing since I was 12 years old. So I would say a million reeds, at least." It looks like he's going to go through a few more. "My professional opinion is that music is part of why he's still alive," Blons said. "It's been the thing that has given him the most joy, sense of purpose and social connections to musicians and the public. He's talked multiple times about quitting, but then two days later, he's talking about next week's show. My expectation is that he'll continue to play until he literally cannot do it anymore. He might play until the day he dies; that wouldn't surprise me."
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Senior Scene
Fall 2016
New look for food labels Why change the food label? The new food label will make it easier for consumers to make informed decisions about the food they eat. The food label as we know it was mandated for most food products in 1990 and went into effect in 1994. More than 20 years later, the FDA has announced the new Nutrition Facts label for packaged foods. Most manufacturers will need to use the new label by July 2018. Many of the changes simply modify the way existing nutrients, vitamins, and minerals are listed. For example, the food label will now include “Added Sugars,” to help consumers understand how much sugar has been added to products. The vitamins and minerals will have actual amounts along with the % DV (daily value) listed. In addition, there will no longer be “Calories from Fat.” It is being removed because research shows the type of fat is more important than the amount. Other changes include the “Servings per container” appearing directly above
KAYLA COLE
Outpatient Dietitian at Trinity Health “Serving size” instead of directly below, and serving sizes are now being labeled in common household measures, such as “1 Cup.” The font size for “Calories,” “Servings per container,” and “Serving size” will be larger, and the actual number of calories and the serving size will be in bold. For more information on these changes, visit www.fda.gov or contact a local dietitian. See below the original versus new label side by side comparison and highlights of what’s different on the new label.
Each moment is precious Working at Trinity Homes made me realize how precious each moment is. Scotty McCreery wrote the song “Five More Minutes.” I quote these words: “Time rolls by the clock don’t stop. I wish I had a few more drops of the good stuff, the good times. Oh but they just keep on flying right on by, like it ain’t nothing. Wish I had me a pause button, Moments like those Lord knows. I’d hit it, give myself five more minutes.” How true those words are. Everyone here at Trinity Homes gives their heart, talents and making memories with each resident, making this their home. Sharing stories with and listening to each of these adventures. Getting advice on children, husband, gardening, cooking and telling their favorite joke. We humans are lots of fun to be around and can put a smile on each other’s face. Let us give each other “Five more minute” with a visit, a telephone call, email, or picture to look at
LOIS ZAHN
Trinity Homes Volunteer Coordinator/Activities again and again. When you come, bring in something to put in a resident’s room, fresh-picked flowers, an old knickknack….a memory. Giving ‘Five More Minute” to someone makes a big difference in their life. Smile Love Laugh Enjoy this day
Fall 2016
Senior Scene
Anniversary milestones
13 siblings achieve 50 years or more of marriage
By JILL SCHRAMM senior, living sibling at age 90. “God’s been good to us through all the Staff Writer jschramm@minotdailynews.com storms,” Albertson said. Nine of the siblings are living, and six Celebrating 50 years of marriage is a continue to accumulate anniversaries notable achievement. For 13 siblings with their spouses. Benton Myers and his from a Minot-area family to each have wife, Darlene, who have celebrated 66 celebrated that milestone with their years so far, claim the greatest longevity. The siblings’ parents, Ray and Stella spouses is particularly worth noting. In observing their 50th anniversary in Myers, had farmed near Berthold. They August, Marlin and June Myers became had 14 children. Lehman died at age 5 in the final of the Myers siblings to reach 1938. The others, who all married, together have 52 living children among that mark. The Lord and a strong commitment them. Their mother, Stella, died from a to marriage as a lifelong institution have been factors behind the lasting unions, brain tumor in 1947 when the youngest, said Mabel (Myers) Albertson, the most Lowell, was 3 years old. Throughout her
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This 1995 photo shows the Myers siblings and their spouses the last time they all were together. Left to right are: (back) Harrison and Joan Myers, Rolland and Donna Rae Myers, June and Marlin “Slim” Myers, Alvin Myers, Darlene and Benton Myers; (middle) Vivian and Bill Myers, Betty and Lowell Myers; Maxine and Donald “Dutch” Myers, Doris Myers, Ruth and George Borgen, Loren Podruchny; (front) Andy and Jeannette Gunderson, Mabel and Gaillord Albertson, Raymond and Vicky Myers and Ruby Podruchny. Submitted Photo
20s, Mabel served as mother to her younger siblings and as manager of the home and its financial affairs. Two of the older boys, William and Benton, helped operate the farm. Their father died in 1970. The first to marry was the oldest sibling, Rolland. He and his wife, Donna Rae, were 18 when they married in 1943 in Estevan, Saskatchewan. They then lived in Minot. Of the series of weddings that followed, Albertson said only five were formal church affairs. Most were private ceremonies, often taking place in a parSee SIBLINGS — Page 9
Submitted Photo
This 1995 photo of the Myers siblings shows brothers Raymond, Benton, Donald “Dutch,” Bill, Rolland, Lowell, Martin “Slim,” Harrison, Alvin and sisters, Jeannette, Ruby, Ruth and Mabel.
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Senior Scene
Fall 2016
Medical ID theft: Health information for older people What is medical ID theft, and how is it different from any other identify theft? Medical identity theft happens when someone steals your personal information and uses it to commit health care fraud. Medical ID thieves may use your identity to get treatment — even surgery — or to bilk insurers by making fake claims. Repairing damage to your good name and credit record can be difficult enough, but medical ID theft can have other serious consequences. If a scammer gets treatment in your name, that person’s health problems could become a part of your medical record. It could affect your ability to get medical care and insurance benefits, and could even affect decisions made by doctors treating you later on. The scammer’s unpaid medical debts also could end up on your credit report.
LINDA MADSEN
North Dakota Center for Persons with Disabilities You can catch medical identity theft early on. First, carefully review every “Explanation of Benefits” statement you get from your health insurer. If you are on Medicare, the statement is your “Medicare Summary Notice (MSN). Follow up on any charges you don’t recognize. At least once a year, ask the health insurers you’ve been involved with for a list of the benefits they paid in your name. Finally, make it a regular practice to check your credit reports. You’re entitled to a free credit
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report from each of the three nationwide companies every 12 months. You can order your free credit report at AnnualCreditReport.com. If you think you may be a victim of medical identity theft, ask your health care provider or hospital for your medical records. You have a right to get copies of your current medical files from each health care provider, though you may have to pay for them. You also have a right to have inaccurate or incomplete information removed. Learn more about your rights under federal law at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) website. Many hospitals have ombudsmen or patient advocates who also can help. If you would like to learn more about medical identity theft or Medicare/healthcare fraud and how to take steps to prevent it, contact the ND SMP at ndsmp@minotstateu.ed u or 1-800-233-1737. Source of information: consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0326-medical-idtheft-health-informationolder-people
Senior Scene
Fall 2016
Siblings
Continued from Page 7
sonage. For the most part, siblings didn’t have to look far afield to find the ones who were right for them. Benton and Darlene Myers grew up together and Darlene’s brother, Andy Gunderson, married Benton’s sister, Jeannette. William Myers’ wife, Vivian, had grown up in the neighborhood. Marlin and Lowell’s wives, June and Betty, were good friends often mistaken for sisters. Donald Myers’ wife, Maxine, had been a college roommate of his sister, Ruby. Mabel, who was 31 when she married, said she wasn’t looking for a husband but rather thought she would like to have a career working in an orphanage. That was before she met a construction worker named Gaillord Albertson. They married in 1957 and celebrated nearly 54 years together before his death. The Albertsons lived much of their married lives in Max. Although the orphanage job never happened, Mabel worked with many children in
her 18 years as a school kitchen aide. She and her husband also cared for foster children for five years. The tally of Myers marriages, from oldest sibling to youngest, includes: Rolland Myers and Donna Rae Nelson, married Dec. 14, 1943, and reached 55 years before Rolland’s death on June 4, 1999. Donna Rae also has since died. Gaillord Albertson and Mabel Myers, married Aug. 19, 1957, and achieved 53 years before his death May 9, 2011. Alvin Myers and Doris Bradvold, married June 11, 1951, and remained together 51 years before Alvin’s death on Jan. 9, 2003. Doris also has since died. Benton Myers and Darlene Gunderson, married June 28, 1950, and still together after 66 years. William “Bill” Myers and Vivian Demaree, married Sept. 7, 1950, and together 62 years before Vivian died Aug. 23, 2013. Ruth Myers and George Borgen, married June 23, 1953, and together 58 years before George died March 4,
2012. Raymond Myers and Vicky Neshem, married June 23, 1952, and together 62 years until Raymond’s death July 18, 2014. Harrison Myers and Joan Bauer, married April 10, 1960, and now at 56 years. Jeannette Myers and Andy Gunderson, married April 18, 1957, and together just shy of 55 years before Jeannette died April 15, 2012. Donald “Dutch” Myers and Maxine Haarstad, married Nov. 4, 1940, and now at 55 years. Ruby Myers and Loren Podruchny, married July 2, 1962, and now at 54 years. Marlin “Slim” Myers and June Schwede, married Aug. 12, 1966, achieving 50 years this year. Lowell Myers and Betty McIntosh, married June 10, 1965, and celebrating 51 years. Five of the weddings took place in the month of June. They included those of twins Ruth and Raymond, who married a year apart on their mother’s birth date, June 23. The siblings have celebrated their 50th anniversaries
Page 9
in different ways, from a small family affair in a cafe, sharing cake with the other patrons, to a formal event with renewing of vows. Albertson recalled that the formal event, planned for her brother Rolland and his wife by their children, had been a surprise, so much so that it caught Rolland unprepared and needing to borrow a suit for the occasion. Those are pleasant memories now. “We’ve had a lot of good times together, lots of them,” Albertson said. The family continues to hold reunions, scheduling one this past summer. Surviving siblings are Albertson, who lives near Surrey; Benton and William Myers of Minot; Lowell and Donald Myers of Carpio; Harrison and Marlin Myers of Berthold, Ruby Podruchny of Washington state and Ruth Borgen of Wisconsin.
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Through years of experience, we have developed a process that allows us to customize your personal care plan. Your highly individualized care plan means you only receive the services you need and want. With our exclusive Personal Service System, you can live your life the way you want with the right care, at the right time, delivered by the right people. One of the things that is great about Brentmoor is our Personalized Service Plan, where the individual only pays for the services that they require.
Brookdale Brentmoor Minot 3515 10th St. SW Minot, ND 58701 (701) 839-3320 www.brookdale.com/communities/emeritus-brentmoor/
Inaction could cost future North Dakota retirees nearly 25 percent of their Social Security check The 463,000 North Dakota workers who are paying into Social Security today stand to lose 25 percent of their benefits if the president and Congress don’t act. That’s according to a new analysis conducted by AARP. Although the revenue shortfall faced by the Social Security system that could result in cuts is not imminent, the Social Security Trustees reported in June that the trust fund would run dry in 2034. After that time, across-the-board cuts of nearly 25 percent would take effect if no action is taken. “Doing nothing is not an option. The question is how long will our leaders wait to act,” said AARP North Dakota State Director Josh Askvig. “Federal candidates need to give voters real answers on how they will update Social Security for future generations.” Consider what a 25 percent cut to Social Security benefits would mean for future North Dakota retirees. – The average annual family income of North Dakota retirees would plunge by $4,000. For many state residents, losses would
FDA warns of fatal risks from mixing opioids and sedatives Senior Scene
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be much higher. – The poverty rate of older North Dakotans would skyrocket 83 percent. Some 5,300 additional seniors would be pushed into poverty. – North Dakotans typically spend $5,700 a year on groceries, $3,800 a year on utilities, and $6,100 on health care. A cut of nearly 25 percent would force households to make painful choices about what to buy and what to do without – at a time when the cost of necessities like food and prescription drugs continues to rise. “This snapshot of the potential effects of inaction on future generations makes it abundantly clear that Social Security needs to be a top priority in the presidential debate,” said Askvig. “Voters deserve to know how all federal candidates’ plans will affect families, what they will cost and how they’ll get it done.” That is why AARP launched Take A Stand – a national campaign focused on pressing presidential candidates to show leadership on Social Security. For more information, go to 2016takeastand.org.
Fall 2016
By MATTHEW PERRONE AP Health Writer
WASHINGTON (AP) — Health officials are strengthening warnings about the potentially fatal consequences of mixing prescription painkillers and sedatives like Xanax, saying the combination can lead to breathing problems, coma and death. The Food and Drug Administration said it will add a boxed warning — the strongest type — to nearly 400 medications about the interaction, including opioid painkillers, opioid-containing cough medicines and benzodiazepines, which are used to treat anxiety, insomnia and seizure disorders. Painkillers and sedatives are among the most commonly prescribed medications in the U.S., but both drug types slow users’ heart rate and breathing. FDA officials said the number of opioid patients receiving sedatives increased by 41 percent, or roughly 2.5 million patients, between 2002 and 2014. Overdose deaths linked to non-medical use of the drug combination tripled between 2004 and 2011, according to figures from the agency. The federal announcement followed a petition from health directors in 16 states and 12 cities filed in February. “We said, ‘we cannot wait’ and called upon the FDA to save lives now,” said Baltimore City Health Commissioner Dr. Leana Wen, who spoke to reporters on an FDA call
AP Photo
Pills of the painkiller hydrocodone at a pharmacy in Montpelier, Vt., are shown. The Food and Drug Administration said that the agency will issue new warnings about the potentially fatal consequences of mixing prescription painkillers and popular sedatives like Valium and Xanax, including coma and death. about the announcement. Wen, an emergency medicine specialist, cited federal figures estimating that nearly 1 in 3 accidental opioid overdose deaths in the U.S. also involve sedatives. While current drug labels and medical guidelines already caution against mixing the drugs, Wen said doctors still routinely prescribe them in combination. For instance, a patient injured in a car accident might receive an opioid for pain and a benzodiazepine to control muscle spasms. FDA officials said they hoped the elevated warning would get the attention of
doctors who have not heeded earlier notices. Along with the new drug labels the FDA will require drug manufacturers to distribute pharmacy pamphlets to patients highlighting the risks of the combination. The FDA has come under fire for not doing more to stem to tide of fatal overdoses tied to prescription opioids, potentially addictive medications that include OxyContin, Vicodin, Percocet and numerous generic equivalents. The number of deaths linked to the medications has increased more than fourfold since 1999.
FDA Commissioner Dr. Robert Califf has pledged to take a series of steps designed to reduce prescription opioid abuse. His confirmation by Senate lawmakers was held up earlier this year by lawmakers concerned about the FDA’s approach to tackling the issue, which has been termed an epidemic by public health authorities. In 2014, more than 17,000 people died from overdoses linked to opioid pain medications, including drugs like oxycodone, hydrocodone and fentanyl, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Fall 2016
Senior Scene
Help for family caregivers may be on the way At some point in your life, you’ll likely find yourself in the role of a family caregiver – providing the daily help a loved one needs to remain independent and in their own home. Caregiving tasks can be simple, like providing transportation or assisting with grocery shopping, or they can be complex, such as performing medical or nursing tasks. Since last fall, the Legislature’s Interim Human Services Committee has been discussing ways to better support North Dakota’s 62,100 unpaid family caregivers. As part of this effort, NDSU Extension conducted a five-month study on family caregiver supports and services. The study’s purpose was to find ways to support North Dakota’s family caregivers and bridge the gaps where they may be struggling. Here are highlights from the research: – Roughly 50 percent of our state’s caregivers performing medical or nursing tasks do not get the appropriate instruction or training to perform these tasks. – Caregivers struggle to find assistance to get the breaks they need to alleviate burnout. – Caregivers are not aware of the services and supports available for their loved one or themselves. – Navigating the complex web of supports, programs, and information is confusing. – Working caregivers struggle to find an appropriate work-life balance. The researchers recommended establishing a family caregiving task force to flesh out additional needs and shortcomings; to explore ways to lift restrictive eligibility criteria; and to improve resources to address caregiver wellbeing. This task force is being formed. At the Interim Human Services Committee’s July meeting, two bill drafts were proposed to begin to address family caregiver needs. Specifically, the caregiver supports bill draft will: – Include language to allow the De-
LYLE HALVORSON
AARP North Dakota
partment of Human Services to apply for a federal grant to provide caregivers with additional respite care. – Appropriate funding to create and promote a caregiver resource center to increase access to existing programs and services. – Appropriate $100,000 to expand NDSU Extension’s caregiver training program. – Update the fee schedule for the state’s Service Payments for the Elderly and Disabled program, making home care services more affordable, especially for those on fixed incomes. – Include legislative intent language reflecting the state’s need to better balance its long-term care funding to help individuals with the support they need to safely remain in their own homes rather than having to move to more expensive institutional care. This bill will be voted on at the committee’s September meeting. If passed by the committee, the bill will be introduced in the 2017 session of the state Legislature. A second bill to be considered by the committee in September is called the CARE Act, which would ensure that family caregivers are kept informed and are provided with an explanation and a demonstration of any medical tasks they will perform at home after discharge from a hospital. These are simply good practices so that loved ones can continue to live safely and independently in their homes and communities.
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Hello seniors! We had a beautiful summer and are looking forward to fall and all the beautiful colors. Our Senior Coalition is busy making plans for next’s 2017 Salute to Seniors, May 9th at the Minot Municipal LOIS Auditorium. ZAHN Our theme is Mardi Gras. We are planning a great event, so put it on your calMinot Area Senior endar. Our many vendors for Salute to SenCoalition Presient iors present information that will enhance your knowledge as well as provide our events. Seniors take one day at a an opportunity with fellow cohorts and use your interests and talents in work and time, remembering we are recycled teenagers. Life is good. share within our community. Thank you all On behalf of Minot Area Senior CoaliGod Bless tion we thank you seniors for attending
Senior Scene
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Alamo Senior Citizens 528-4881 Meals are served Tuesdays. Business meetings are the second Tuesday of each month. Birthdays of the month are celebrated on the last Tuesday of the month. Cards, with lunch served, every Tuesday. Foot care is offered every other month.
Anamoose Senior Citizens 465-3316 First Sunday: Brunch, 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Open to the public. Meal every Monday from 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Open to the public. First Monday: business meeting, bingo and speakers. Every Monday: Dinner from 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Social gatherings are the third Friday of the month, starting at 1:30 p.m. for pool, cards, dominoes, etc. Chair exercises are Monday and Thursday at 9:30 a.m., followed by a 1 or 2mile walking tape. Free blood pressure checks are offered monthly on Mondays and per request. The Anamoose Senior Center is available for rent. For more information, call Ron at 465-3400.
Senior citizen clubs may have their schedules included in the Senior Scene. Information may be e-mailed to announce@minotdailynews.com or mailed to Minot Daily News, P.O. Box 1150, Minot, ND 58702.
Berthold Senior Citizens 453-5680 Business meeting at 1 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month. Cards and lunch every Tuesday afternoon. Foot clinics are the second Wednesday of the month.
through mid-March. Cost is $3. Prizes will be awarded and lunch will be served. The center can be rented for special occasions. The senior bus runs in Bottineau Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday. It goes to Minot every Thursday. For reservations, call 228-6061.
Bottineau Senior Citizens 228-3339 Center is open Monday through Friday 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Title III meals served in the center at noon Monday through Friday. Home delivered meals are available and frozen meals can be ordered for delivery. Foot care and blood pressure clinics are offered every even month. Call the county nurse for appointment. Business meeting is the first Tuesday of the month at 2 p.m., followed by lunch. Social meeting is third Tuesday at 3 p.m. and includes programs or entertainment. Activities include crazy whist, bingo, cards, pool and dominoes. Lunch is served. Birthdays are celebrated every third month with a program, dessert and coffee. A potluck brunch is held the first and third Sunday of each month at 11:30 a.m. Progressive whist parties will be held at 1:30 p.m. Sundays starting in midJanuary and continuing
Bowbells Senior Citizens Last Monday: Business meeting at 1 p.m. Third Thursday: Health day. Monday: 7 p.m., pinochle. Thursday: 2 - 4 p.m., social coffee party. Everyone is welcome. Meals are served Monday, Wednesday and Friday with home delivery available. Cards are played Monday at 7 p.m. There is no pool table on site but jigsaw puzzles are ongoing. Burlington Friendly Seniors Meeting is the third Thursday at 4 p.m. with a pot luck to follow. Coffee club meets Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 9:30-11 a.m. Meals on Wheels served Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 11:15 a.m. Bible study at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday. Card playing is Thursday at 1:30-4 p.m. Free will pancake breakfast is last saturday of the month thru October. Exercise room is avail-
able at all times. Foot care is offered every other month.
Butte Senior Citizens 626-7323 Effective from the first Tuesday in October until the end of May. The club opens at 2 p.m. and at times there are card parties on Thursday. Call to confirm card party times. First Tuesday: Business meeting followed by cards. Second Tuesday: Potluck, then cards. Third Tuesday: Bingo, then cards. Fourth Tuesday: Program, then cards. Fifth Tuesday: (Open), then cards. Carpio Senior Citizens Senior meals are served Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at Carpio Cafe from 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Pool is played Mondays and Wednesdays at 1 p.m. Whist is played Thursdays. Third Thursday: bingo at 2 p.m. Third Thursday: dinner at the Carpio Cafe at noon, with business meeting at the center at 1 p.m. Foot clinics are the second Wednesday of every other month. Columbus Golden Circle Club Whist is played every Tuesday afternoon. Business meeting the fourth Wednesday of each
Fall 2016 month with lunch and entertainment. Foot care the second Friday of every month.
to Minot every Thursday. For rides call 1-800-9278318.
Deering Senior Citizens 728-6662 Senior meals are served Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays in the Deering Cafe. A birthday potluck dinner is held the third Monday of each month. Senior meetings are the second Thursday of each month.
Dunseith Peace Garden Senior Citizens 244-5483 Business meeting is first Monday of the month at 1 p.m., followed by card playing or bingo. Home-cooked meals are served at the center Monday through Friday at noon. Meals can be delivered.
Divide County Senior Citizens 965-6964 Business meetings are the first Friday of the month; followed by bingo. Progressive pinochle is the second Friday of the month. Third Friday: Card playing. Fourth Friday: Potluck dinner and card playing. Douglas Nifty Fiftys Meet every fourth Tuesday with potluck. Health screening by the First District Health Unit and foot care is the last Monday of every other month. Drake Senior Citizens Second Monday: Business meeting, 2 p.m. Fourth Monday: Potluck dinner, noon. Each Friday: Bone Builders exercise is at 1 p.m. Coffee and rolls are served from 2-4 p.m. Open to the public. Foot clinic is held the third Wednesday of every other month in the Drake City Hall. For appointments, call 5375732. The Souris River Transportation Bus goes
Esmond Senior Citizens 249-3230 The Esmond Senior Citizens Club meets the second Tuesday of every month. Potluck suppers are held and bingo is played. Entertainment is sometimes available and there are always readings done by someone. Fessenden Specialist Club (Senior Citizens) 547-3403 First Monday: Birthdays of the month are celebrated. Third Tuesday: Business meeting followed by special speakers, programs and games, such as bingo and cards. First Baptist XYZ For more information about First Baptist XYZ, call 852-4533 on weekdays. Flaxton Senior Citizens Foot clinic and health clinic is the first Wednesday of each month. Pinochle is played each Wednesday afternoon.
Senior Scene
Fall 2016 Glenburn Senior Citizens 362-7555 Center is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. Meals are served those days at the Glenburn Cafe. Reservations are required by calling 362-7555 or 362-7565. Business meetings are held every second Friday. Fourth Tuesday: Pancakes are served at the center. Foot clinic is held on the second Monday of the odd-numbered months. Birthday dinners are the first Sunday of the month at the center. Canasta, whist and marbles are played. The Renville Stage goes to Minot every Thursday. Call 362-7555 for more information. Granville Senior Citizens 728-6888 Hot noon meals are served Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Meals can be delivered to shut-ins. Business meetings are held on the second Monday of each month. Afternoon activities include coffee, cards and puzzles. Social meetings are on the fourth Monday with bingo. Birthdays are celebrated on the third Tuesday of every odd month with a potluck evening meal at 4:30 p.m. Pedicures are available on the last Monday of every other month. The Rugby bus goes through Granville to Minot each Thursday. Kenmare Senior Citizens Club Potluck birthday supper first Friday of each month at 6 p.m.
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Quarterly meeting every third month followed by games and cards. Regular board meeting first week of each month. Meals on wheels are served Monday through Friday at 11:45 a.m. Meals can be delivered. Foot care and health maintenance is first and third Wednesday of each month. Appointments are requested. Afternoon activities include pool, cards, games, puzzles, lunch.
Lakeside Senior Citizens New Town 627-2818 Open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 2-4 p.m. Second Friday: Noon meal, followed by business meeting. Fourth Friday: Noon meal and birthday party. Foot care: Every other month. (Call for details.) Activities: Cards, puzzles, games, coffee and lunch. Lansford Hi Neighbor Club Meets first Wednesday of each month at the Lansford Mall following the noon meal which is served there Monday through Friday. Foot care is available
the last Thursday every other month.
Lignite Senior Center 933-2855 Noon meals available each Monday, Wednesday and Friday. First Monday: Business meeting following noon meal. Second Monday: foot care at Christ Lutheran Church, Lignite. Third Friday: social at 6 p.m. Each Tuesday and Thursday: pinochle is played at 1 p.m. Coffee time is Monday through Friday at 3 p.m. Foot clinic is offered the second Wednesday of every “even” month. Potluck meals are held periodically. For information on bus service to Minot, call 852-8008. Makoti Senior Citizens 726-5522 Second Wednesday of each month: Potluck supper at 6 p.m. followed by monthly business meeting at 7 p.m. Frozen meals can be ordered the first week of the month by calling 7265757. RSVP+ exercises are held two times a week, except during the winter.
Max Senior Citizens 679-2265 Potlucks are held the fourth Friday of each month, followed by a business meeting. January through March potlucks start at noon; from April through September, potlucks begin at 6 p.m.; and from October through December potlucks are again at noon. Meals program: Monday, Tuesday and Thursday at noon. Home deliveries are available on request. Mohall Friendly Neighbors 756-6670 First Friday: Potluck dinner at noon. Third Friday: Potluck dinner at noon followed by the monthly business meeting. Monday, Wednesday and Friday: “Bone Builders” exercise at 9:30 a.m. First Thursday: Foot care. Call 756-6383 for appointment. Newburg Senior Citizens 272-6204 Meetings are held the third Thursday of each month at 2 p.m. in the community center. There is a business meeting,
Page 13 games, cards and a potluck meal. Lunch meeting each Wednesday, 11:30 a.m., Coffee Cup Cafe in Newburg. The foot care clinic is held the first Wednesday of odd-numbered months.
Parker Senior Center 21 1st Ave. SE, Minot 852-0561 Meals are served Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., except for holidays. Monday: Craft day, 9:30 a.m.; bingo at 12:15 p.m. Tuesday: Exercise, 9:30 a.m.; game day, second and fourth Tuesday of the month, 12:30 p.m. Wednesday: Bible study, 9:45 a.m.; book exchange, 1 p.m.; birthday celebration, 12:30 p.m., third Wednesday of the month. Thursday: Exercise, 9:30 a.m.; movie, 12:30 p.m., third Thursday of the month. Friday: bingo, 12:15 p.m. All senior activities are open to the public. Call 852-0561 for more information. Parshall Golden Jet Set 862-3444 Center is open Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. for visiting, putting puzzles together, and playing dominoes. There is a business
meeting on Wednessday at 11:45 a.m. with a home-cooked meal at noon. Tuesday at 3 p.m., the Center is open to play cards, visit, and put puzzles together. Foot Clinic is held the 4th Wednesday every even month. The Golden Jet Set is available for rent. For more information, call Karen at 862-3642; Pat at 862-3355 and/or Elaine at 862-4266. Powers Lake Senior Citizens Club Center is open six days a week from 8 a.m. - 9 p.m. Home-cooked meals are served Monday through Friday at noon. Home delivery is available on request. Frozen meals are also available. Birthdays and wedding anniversaries are celebrated the second Wednesday of each month with entertainment after the noon meal. Monthly business meetings are on third Saturday of the month. Executive meeting at 5:30 p.m., potluck supper at 6 p.m. and meeting at 7 p.m. Cards and games follow. Foot clinics on third Wednesdays from 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. Souris Basin Bus, available to the public, goes to Minot every Thursday and makes trips to Williston, Stanley and Kenmare.
Senior Scene
Page 14 Rolla Senior Citizens The club business meeting is held the second Friday of the month at 1 p.m., followed by entertainment or bingo. Meals are served daily at noon. Home delivered meals are available as are frozen meals for weekends. Foot care is available the third Thursday of each month. A van is available for rides to doctor appointments, grocery or other shopping and business appointments. Rugby Senior Citizens 776-2240 Center opens 9 a.m.
daily. Senior meals available five days a week serving both congregate (in) and home-delivered (out) meals. Monthly meeting on second Monday of each month. Foot care first Tuesday a.m. and third Tuesday p.m. Call 776-6783 in advance. Cards: Tuesdays at 1 p.m. Bingo: Wednesdays at 1:30 p.m. Ryder Happy Hours Club Club meetings are held the first Monday of the month. Walkers meet at 8 a.m.
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Monday through Saturday. Foot care clinic is offered during the odd months. St. John Senior Center 477-3950 Monday, Tuesday and Thursday: noon, lunch.
Bingo after lunch on Thursday. Second Thursday of each month: 11 a.m., business meeting.
Sawyer Senior Citizens 624-5256 Pool, exercising, cards and quilting are available daily. Potluck meals are planned periodically. Senior meals are served at noon on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at Sawyer Senior Center. Call 624-5256 for meal reservations. Pool and exercise are available every Monday, Wednesday and Friday morning. Members monthly birthdays are recognized the first Wednesday of every month at the dinner and birthday cake is served. Activity night and meetings are held the second Thursday of each month. Foot clinic is offered the second Wednesday of every “even� month. Potluck meals are held periodically. For information on bus service to Minot, call 8528008. The club email address is sawyerseniorcitizens @srt.com.
Sherwood Friendship Club Open every Tuesday and Friday at 1 p.m. for bone building exercise followed by activities and a snack at 3 p.m. First Wednesday: Food pantry from 2-3 p.m. Second Friday: Business meeting at 1:30 pm. Monthly potluck dinner: 6 p.m. last Wednesday of the month, except around holidays. Call 459-2462 to verify. Stanley Golden Age Club 628-2101 Open every Friday at 11:15 a.m. with noon homecooked meal. Call 628-2101 or 628-2850 for information. Cards and games are played every Friday after the noon meal, with coffee at 3 p.m. The fourth Friday of every month we celebrate members birthdays of the current month with birthday cake and ice cream, and special entertainment. Surrey Senior Citizens 839-8702 Senior meals are served at noon on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. Call center for meal reservations. Home deliveries are available on request. Foot Clinic is available at the center. Call Lavonne at 240-2679 for an appointment. Game night is held every
Thursday starting at 7 p.m. Snacks are provided. Bingo is played every Tuesday and Thursday at 1 p.m. Birthday cake and ice cream are served at 12:30 p.m. on the third Monday of each month. Board meetings are held on the Tuesday before the last Friday of each month beginning at 5 p.m. Potluck meals are held on the last Friday of each month at 6:30 p.m. Entertainment follows. The email is surreyseniors@srt.com. Tioga Senior Citizens Dinner Tuesday and Friday at noon. Business meeting: second Monday of the month, starting at 2 p.m. Potluck on third Monday at 6 p.m. in May through September and 12:30 p.m. during October through April, followed by music, cards or other games. Tolley Senior Citizens Monthly meetings are held every second Tuesday. From October through April, there is a potluck meal at noon, followed by the business meeting and games. From May through September, business meetings are held at 2 p.m. Lunch and games afterward. Foot care clinics the third Wednesday of the even-numbered months. Towner Senior Citizens 537-5155 Business meetings are held the first Wednesday of the month at 10:30 a.m. Coffee and goodies are served Monday mornings for the ladies. Rolls and coffee are served at 10 a.m. the third Thursday of each month.
Senior Scene
Fall 2016 The center is open the first and third Thursdays for bunco, cards, games, puzzles and art. Coffee and cookies are served. Exercise equipment is available for anyone who wants to use it. Health screenings and foot care are offered every other month on the fourth Wednesday. Call 537-5732 for an appointment. Bus service to Minot is available each Thursday. Call 852-8008 to make advance reservations. The senior center is open by request for other gatherings. Upham Senior Citizens Business meetings: first Monday of the month with a potluck meal at 5 p.m., followed by cards, pool and coffee. Social meeting the third Monday of the month at 1 p.m. with cards and lunch. Cards and pool are played or puzzles are put together every Wednesday. Lunch is served. Health screening and foot care is offered every other month. Call the McHenry County Nurses Office for an appointment. Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday exercising starts at 9:30 a.m. Star City Senior Citizens Velva 338-2628 Senior meals are served Monday, Wednesday and Friday at noon at the center on Main Street. Volunteers handle the serving of the meals which are catered from the Souris Valley Care Center at Velva. A monthly birthday party is held on the second Wednesday at 2 p.m. Bingo is offered on Monday and Friday at 1:30 p.m. and pinochle on Wednesday and Saturday afternoons. The exercise room is
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available to seniors with their membership dues. The public may use the room with a monthly donation. Health care is available on a monthly basis. Included are foot care, immunizations, etc.
Westhope Senior Citizens 245-6401 Open Monday through Friday from 2-5 p.m. Cards are played every day. Peoples’ choice progressive cards every second and fourth Friday.
Business meetings are held the third Monday monthly. Senior meals are served at M&D Pizza at 11:30 a.m. five days a week. Home-delivered meals are also available.
Q.
Brad Stai Trust Officer
A.
Minot’s only Local Trust Department
2200 15th Street SW Minot, ND 58701 857-7150
Page 15 Wildrose Senior Citizens Center is open 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. First Tuesday: Business meeting, 1 p.m. Third Tuesday: Birthday parties at 1 p.m. Senior meals are served Tuesdays at the center. You must be 60 years old to qualify for meals at reduced rate. The senior van goes to Crosby, Tioga or Williston every week for shopping, doctor appointments or meetings. The van is also available for other events.
Willow City Swinging Seniors The Swinging Seniors meet every first Monday of each month at 2:00 pm at the Senior Center. Readings, bingo and lunch served after the meeting. Senior noon meals are served every Monday,Wednesday and Friday at the Backwoods Cafe. January -March card parties are held every Monday with coffee and lunch. Starting in May the Senior Center will be open every Wednesday for coffee and a unplanned gathering of Seniors and friends.