Idaho Senior Independent Apr/May 2009

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Panhandle Special Needs Volunteer Lois Miller Is Sandpoint’s Citizen Of The Year

By Gail Jokerst It all started with Oprah. At least, that is what Lois Miller says when explaining how she helped raise $80,000 to renovate the Panhandle Special Needs building in Sandpoint.

“The Circle of Friends group I belong to had $100 in the kitty and we needed to figure out the

best way to spend it,” recalls Lois. “I suggested we try what Oprah recommends, ‘Pay It Forward.’

That means you do something for someone else instead of expecting things to come back to you.

In turn, you hope those people will do something good for somebody else.”

Since Lois had always worked for agencies such as Panhandle Special Needs, Inc. (PSNI) that help the developmentally disabled to find employment and be independent, her ideas about the money naturally turned in that direction.

“Initially, I thought if we could buy a new set of dishes for PSNI’s kitchen, we’d be making progress,” remembers Lois. Little did she realize those plates and bowls represented just the beginning of a beautification project she would later come to say, “Took on

a life of its own.”

The building that houses the non-profit PSNI was formerly an industrial cut-shop for a woodworking business. For the past 27 years, it has served as a training center for people with disabilities. Unfortunately, the features that made the building an asset to the original occupants - its cement walls and flooring plus its openness - were not appropriate (Cont’d on page 30)

Gather the Hidden Eggs Just for fun, we have hidden 7 Easter eggs throughout this issue of the Idaho Senior Independent. Can you find them and let us know the page numbers on which you found them? We will award a $20 prize to the person who finds all of the eggs. If there are multiple correct entries, the winner will be determined by a drawing. None of the hidden eggs is located within an advertisement. Have fun!

PAGE 2 IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT

APRIL/MAY 2009

There Is Support for Huntington’s Chorea Huntington’s disease (also know as Huntington’s chorea) is a progressive hereditary disorder that affects the brain’s ability to control movement, judgment, and emotions. Living with Huntington’s disease poses many challenges for individuals, families, and friends.

Idaho is fortunate to have a group of people who have come together to support one another as they cope with this disease. The group is open to anyone with Huntington’s, their loved ones and caregivers, as well as anyone at risk for developing Huntington’s.

The Huntington’s Disease Support Group meets on the second Wednesday of each month at Wright Congregational Church, 4821 W. Franklin Rd., Boise, ID 83705, at 6:30 pm.

Admission is FREE and no membership registration is required. For additional information, please contact me.

Anne Spencer 208-381-733 E-mail: spencera@SLRMC.org Boise

Great Trivia and Paper!

Here we are again entering another one of your interesting trivia games.

This one is very good! Our answers to the World War II trivia are attached to this letter.

Thanks for your newspaper. We are still enjoying every issue.

Dee Hansen, Activity Director Heritage Assisted Living, Boise I’m sending in my answers to the great trivia you had in your February/ March 2009 issue of the Idaho Senior Independent.

I discovered your delightful paper at my eye doctor’s office and found the articles informative and extremely interesting. I’m looking forward to the next issue.

Royle Taylor Pocatello

Idaho Senior Independent

Great Article

A Barrett-Whitman Publication

Thank you so much for the wonderful article in the February/March 2009 edition of the Idaho Senior Independent about Grace Henderson.

Adrienne Bennett Volunteer Coordinator WA-ID Volunteer Center, Inc. Lewiston ISI

P.O. Box 3341 • Great Falls, MT 59403-3341 208-318-0310 • Toll Free: 1-866-360-5683 Fax: 406-761-8358 www.idahoseniorindependent.com email: idahoseniorind@bresnan.net The Idaho Senior Independent is published six times each year in February, April, June, August, October, and December by Barrett-Whitman Co., 415 3rd Avenue North, Great Falls, MT 59401 and is distributed free to readers throughout the state of Idaho.

The mail subscription rate is $10.00 per year (6 issues). The Idaho Senior Independent is written to serve Idaho’s mature population of all ages. Readers are encouraged to contribute interesting material. Views expressed in opinion stories, contributions, articles, and letters are not necessarily the views of the publisher. The appearance of advertisements for products or services does not constitute an endorsement of the particular product or service. The publisher will not be responsible for mistakes in advertisements unless notified within five days of publication.

All copy appearing in the Idaho Senior Independent is protected by copyright and may be reprinted only with the written permission of the publisher. Advertising copy should be received or space reserved by the 5th of the month preceding the month of publication.

Jack W. Love, Jr., Publisher/Editor Colleen Paduano Julie Crittendon Angie Erskine Becky Hart Sherrie Smith

Office Manager Production Supervisor Advertising Sales Advertising Sales Graphic Artist Admin/Production Assistant

Contributing Writers Natalie Bartley Connie Daugherty Holly Endersby Clare Hafferman Cate Huisman Gail Jokerst Bernice Karnop Craig Larcom Liz Larcom Jack McNeel Michael McGough Dianna Troyer © 2009

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APRIL/MAY 2009

Spring has arrived in many areas of Idaho and it is close behind in the rest. We have new life everywhere we look. Let’s find someone to enjoy this magnificent season of birds, bees, and flowers.

To those who wish to respond to any of these personal ads, simply mail your message, address, phone number, and/or email address to the department number listed in the particular personal ad, c/o Idaho Senior Independent, P.O. Box 3341, Great Falls, MT 59403.

Your response, including your address, phone number, and/or email address will be forwarded to the person placing the ad. If you answer an ad in this section, there is no guarantee that you will receive a response. That is up to the person who placed the ad. Please make sure you submit your correct address plainly printed so you can promptly receive responses.

Respond to the ads in this issue and also sit down now and prepare your ad for our June/July 2009 issue. There is no charge for this service, and your ad may bring a breath of fresh air to your heart as well.

Responses to personal ads appearing in this column can be submitted at any time. However, to place a personal ad, the deadline for the June/July 2009 issue is May 10, 2009.

Spring is in the air. Would anyone like to get together with this middle aged Grandma, who is looking for a NS, middle aged grandpa? There are a lot of pretty ladies in Idaho Falls who are looking for a sweet, loveable, kind gentleman to enjoy life with. If we don’t get started, we’ll never get going. I enjoy holding hands, outdoor walks, talks, etc. We are not getting any younger so let’s get busy and have some fun. Will answer all calls and letters. Reply ISI, Dept. 5101, c/o Idaho Senior Independent, Box 3341, Great Falls, MT 59403.

Looking for a SWM 65-80 years old that would like to dance, play pool, and have lots of fun! I am a N/S, occasional drinker, honest, gentle, easy-going. I have a good sense of humor and am loving, considerate, and affectionate. I am looking for a companion, friend, and possibly more. I am recently widowed, female, and retired. I also like to travel, go to movies and concerts, take walks, dine out occasionally, bird watch, and sit and talk by the fireplace. I live just on the outskirts of Boise. Let’s have some good times together. Write, send your phone number, and I will get back to you. I am healthy, have lots of energy, and do not look my age. Reply ISI, Dept. 5102, c/o Idaho Senior Independent, Box 3341, Great Falls, MT 59403.

I am an attractive lady, long blonde hair, medium build, and affectionate. I would like to meet a nice, average looking man that is financially secure, considerate, and knows how to treat a lady right. Someone that enjoys talking, movies, going out, and home life. If this sounds interesting to you please write. Reply ISI, Dept. 5103, c/o Idaho Senior Independent, Box 3341, Great Falls, MT 59403.

Slim, active, country lady, will relocate, enjoys outdoors, camping, walks, traveling, sense of humor, spiritual, warm-hearted, loves hugs, enjoys cooking, crafts, and staying busy. Seeking L.T. relationship with a kind, active gentleman, 55-70, fun loving, happy, and easy going. Social drinking OK, no drugs or smoking. Reply ISI, Dept. 5104, c/o Idaho Senior Independent, Box 3341, Great Falls, MT 59403.

IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 3

WCF, my age is classified as “senior�, but am young at heart, still energetic, and look pretty good! No health problems. Would like a companion to share and enjoy this beautiful life. Travel, laugh, and toss our cares aside. I will answer all. Please send a picture if possible. Reply ISI, Dept. 5105, c/o Idaho Senior Independent, Box 3341, Great Falls, MT 59403.

Single grandma wanting to meet with single grandpa in his 70s for a date and friendship. Reply ISI, Dept. 5106, c/o Idaho Senior Independent, Box 3341, Great Falls, MT 59403.

Single man wanting to meet a single lady between 40 and 50 years of age. Seeking a date and possibly a relationship. Will answer all letters. Reply ISI, Dept. 5107, c/o Idaho Senior Independent, Box 3341, Great Falls, MT 59403. ISI

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APRIL/MAY 2009

What a dilemma it is to remove the clutter from our lives. But is it just stuff, or is it more – memories of ourselves, our families, and the lives we have lived?

Thanks go to Donna Jones of Priest River for her winning Remember When contribution, Downsizing. Thank you, Donna for so clearly illustrating that everything is not meant for disposal. Donna wins this month’s $25 prize.

Remember When contains our readers’ personal reflections or contributions describing fictional or non-fictional events from some time in the

past. Contributions may be stories, letters, artwork, poems, essays, etc. Photos may be included.

Each issue of the Idaho Senior Independent features the contribution(s) deemed best by our staff. The contributor of the winning entry receives a $25 cash prize.

We look forward to receiving your contributions for our June/July 2009 issue. Mail your correspondence to Idaho Senior Independent, P.O. Box 3341, Great Falls, MT 59403, email to idahoseniorind@bresnan.net, or call 1-866-3605683 or 208-318-0310.

Downsizing

By Donna Jones, Priest River I was ready to begin the yearly task of spring-cleaning. I welcomed this diversion after the endless days of snow and gloom this winter. But, have you noticed that we have been bombarded from the media about our need to downsize… to reduce our clutter and get rid of excess stuff?

Who was I to argue with the experts? I decided to start my spring cleaning by downsizing and organizing the contents of one of my closets. There I found an old suitcase stored at the back and filled with dresses, gloves, hats, shoes, and purses - my granddaughters’ dress-up garments.

I carefully placed the suggested giveaway, throwaway, and hold-for-a-year boxes in a row and began the decision making process.

I learned to square dance in the red western dress that spilled over the side of the suitcase. We novice dancers learned the intricate patterns of square dance to the call of old-time music. Our dance hall was a barn, and we had so much fun! I reluctantly placed the dress in the giveaway box.

My granddaughters loved to spin in the three-tiered western petticoats that swirled around their legs. When they became too dizzy to stand, they plopped down on the floor. Their beautiful faces peeked from the center of the sheer organdy billowing around them. The yards of material do take up a lot of space, I thought. I tossed them on top of the dress.

I unfolded a pair of elbow length gloves. Three tiny pearl buttons graced their white top. Memories of high school flashed before me. My mom and I searched unsuccessfully for the perfect dress and gloves that I would wear to the Junior Prom. Then a family business trip to California solved the dilemma.

My cousin took us shopping at the White House, a huge department store in Santa Rosa. We found the perfect dress and gloves. Fifty-seven years later, I held the gloves in my hand, wondering in which box they belonged - the throwaway box, the giveaway box, or the hold-for-a-year box?

A veiled hat lay in a corner of the suitcase. It was one of my mother’s favorites. She wore a pair of short white gloves and a veiled hat to church every Sunday. I pictured my dark- and blonde-headed granddaughters as they tried to adjust that same hat on their small heads. Their expressions were deadly serious. Long lashed dark brown and blue eyes hidden behind the mysterious veil innocently flirted with their reflections in the mirror. Those were sweet memories. I lay the hat on the bed beside me.

A crocheted shawl lay crumpled in the suitcase. It hung to the floor when wrapped around the shoulders of my shortest granddaughter. A long yellow skirt, scattered with embroidered pink flowers brought to mind Forrest Gump’s girl friend, Jennie. Souvenirs of an era long past. Which box?

I picked up the green dress I wore to my youngest daughter’s wedding reception. It brought back a flood of memories. The band was great. Friends and family filled the hall. All of the women attending prepared their favorite dishes to share. Many of the men brought their own bottle, and it was such a great party that Mount St. Helens blew its top! Some out-of-town guests were caught in the heavy volcanic ash that fell over the Northwest and had to stay an extra day or two. Which box for these mementos of our family?

Then the blue flowered dress I wore to my oldest son’s wedding caught my eye. Only the bride and groom knew the bride’s white cowboy boots would peek from beneath her floor-length wedding gown as they ran hand-in-hand down the aisle. These were their first important steps together as Mr. and Mrs., and no one imagined the groom would not live to celebrate their 14th anniversary. Unshed tears filled my eyes.

I carefully folded the scattered clothing, placed the articles back into the old battered suitcase, and shoved it back into the closet. Downsizing did not include these treasures buried in the memories of my life.

I moved the throwaway, giveaway, and hold-for-a-year boxes to the storage shed and decided to resume my spring housecleaning by downsizing my kitchen cupboards. ISI

APRIL/MAY 2009

IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 5

WIN A

who submits the entry selected by our staff as the featured quiz or puzzle in the “Contest Corner” for that issue. Turn your creativity loose and send us some good, interesting puzzles!

The second $25 prize goes to the person who submits the most correct answers to the featured quiz or puzzle from the previous issue. When there is a tie, the winner is determined by a drawing.

Please mail your entries to the Idaho Senior Independent, P.O. Box 3341, Great Falls, MT 59403

by May 10, 2009 for our June/July 2009 edition.

Remember to work the crossword puzzle in this issue and on our website www.idahoseniorindependent.com.

Income Tax Facts And Figures Submitted by Jean Carr, Twin Falls It seems there is no way to escape the tax code. The tax deadline is just around the corner and here is a list of income tax questions. Some of these are probably fresh in your mind. And, it may take some studying, but with a little help, you can find the rest of the answers. Good luck on this well-timed trivia.

Just write your answers on a piece of paper and drop them in the mail to us.

1. The income tax law was enacted by what amendment?

2. It was ratified by the required number of states in what year?

3. Name five of the seven states without an income tax?

4. Name six of the nine community property states?

5. What are the five filing statuses?

6. What do these acronyms stand for? IRS, AGI, AMT, IRA, and EIC 7. What are the five categories of itemized deductions?

8. How many normal estimated tax payments are required in one year?

9. Schedule “C” reports what type of income?

10. Schedule “F” reports what type of income?

11. At what age is an additional personal exemption allowed?

12. An additional personal exemption is allowed for a taxpayer who is considered legally blind. True or false 13. The standard deduction and exemptions allowance are regularly increased by the government. True or false 14. Besides your name and address what is the important identification item required on your tax return?

15. What is the normal due date of a tax return without an extension for its appropriate tax year?

16. Whether you are required to file a tax return is determined by your gross income and filing

status. True or false 17. In all states there are three different residency classifications depending upon your period of residency. What are they?

18. Do qualifying childcare expenses generate an income deduction or a tax credit?

19. There is a credit available for expenses incurred when installing qualifying energy saving residential improvements. True or false 20. What is the newest and fastest method of filing your tax return? ISI

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We have a great quiz on income tax trivia for this issue. With taxes fresh on everyone’s mind this should be a breeze for most of us, if not maybe it will help get your taxes completed. Thank you and congratulations to Jean Carr of Twin Falls. You are the winner of this month’s $25 prize for providing the best quiz.

The winning correct answers to the World War II trivia quiz that appeared in our February/March 2009 edition were submitted by Royal Taylor of Pocatello who wins the $25 prize.

Two $25 cash prizes are awarded from the “Contest Corner” in each issue of the Idaho Senior Independent. One prize goes to the person

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PAGE 6 IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT

APRIL/MAY 2009

Answers to “World War II Trivia” Feb/Mar 2009 1. Yalta Conference 2. Rosie the Riveter 3. Axis 4. U-boats 5. Operation Overlord 6. Manhattan Project 7. Japan and China

8. Battle of the Atlantic 9. Dachau 10. Battle of Okinawa 11. Enola Gay 12. Soviet Union 13. Jesse Owens 14. 350

Across 1. Super Bowl winners in 1999 5. National Championship winners in College Football and men’s basketball in 2007 (goes with 16 across) 9. Winning coach in the NFL gets an ___ - bath 11. Good enough to win at the 2007 Masters 12. Oscar winning best actor in 1992 (2 words) 16. See 5 across 18. Midday 19. Occasional worker 21. Winner’s have this attitude (2 words) 22. Position of the Heisman winner in 2006 24. Morning 25. Hospital based show 26. Opposite of pobre 28. Everyone 29. Initials of the Super Bowl winners in 2005 31. Every winner must ___ high 32. Indy 500 champion in 2005, Wheldon 35. Defunct airline 36. Boxer’s weight check machine 39. Printer maker 40. Steven’s Spielberg’s mother who gave her last name to the Princess in Star Wars 41. Succeeded 44. Golfer, Sneed 46. Joke 49. “I am the greatest” boxer 50. Kentucky Derby winner who had the fastest time ever in 1973 53. Ma___, Santana song girl 54. Wedding agreement (2 words) 55. Newport locale 56. Two, in Madrid 57. Player of golf 58. Oriental game 60. Fastest woman in the world (nickname) - still holds the records for 100

15. The Philippines 16. The Battle of Midway 17. 7:48 AM 18. 25 19. James Stewart 20. Ted Williams

and 200m 62. Put money on it 63. Record breaking home run hitter, Hank 65. Practice box 66. Most well known fable writer!

67. Promotion Down 1. Super Bowl MVP for the Patriots in 2005, last name 2. Protagonist 3. Combat information center, for short 4. Muscle 5. Santa __ 6. Iridescent gem 7. Mouse giant?

8. Triathlete 10. Goes with dot 13. Military leave, for short 14. British prince 15. Most popular person 17. Nobel prize winner for literature, who wrote: “ The Adventures of Augie March” (first name) 20. ____ Donna 23. Long time ago 26. Biggest NASCAR winner of alltime: ____ Petty 27. Song 30. Big golf winner, Arnold 31. Usian Bolt’s fellow Jamaican sprinter, Powell 33. __ __ rule 34. American Top 40 song that holds the record for the most weeks at number one 37. Star Wars director 38. Sandwich bar 42. Heis-

man trophy winner in 2002, first name 43. Baseball area 44. Gets points 45. Mena locale 47. Jacksonville coach last name, Del ____ 48. Alien who was too good for earth 51. Author LeShan 52. One of the best golfers of all time, first name 59. Overtime, for short

60. To and ___ 61. Cut off 62. Arts degree 63. TV channel for mysteries, initials 64. Oakland baseball team

APRIL/MAY 2009

IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 7

Nutritional Factors Affecting Osteoporosis you to stop drinking milk when diagnosed with

By Dr. Holly Carling, Coeur d’Alene Diminished bone density is a topic of serious osteoporosis!

Vitamin D is important to regulate calcium and concern among older people. Among people over the age of 50, one in two women and one phosphorus. However, you need natural vitamin in eight men in the United States will experience D, not synthetic. Synthetic forms include calcifa fracture due to osteoporosis. That is stagger- erol, irradiated ergosterol, and ergocalciferol.

These forms are highly toxic. ing!

Natural Vitamin D is called cholecalciferol Of course, the question is “Why?” With relative stability for hundreds and perhaps thou- and is found in egg yolk, fish oil, and a number sands of years, why the recent increase in the of plants. Exposure to sunlight also supplies incidence of osteoporosis? Risk assessment Vitamin D to the body.

Many other nutritional elements are needed includes questions about age, previous fractures, parental history of hip fractures, smoking, for healthy bones. You need essential fatty acids hormonal status, body weight, and whether you to uptake the calcium properly, along with the need your arms to assist yourself in standing synergistic minerals such as phosphorus, magup from a chair. But what about one of the most nesium, and others. True vitamin C (not ascorbic acid or calcium ascorbate), iron, zinc, copper, important risk factors – your nutrition?

Calcium is a critical component of proper vitamin K, boron, manganese, chromium, and nutrition, but more important is how your body the vitamin B-complex all play important roles digests calcium. Most people with osteoporosis in bone and collagen formation. These all need to be metabolized properly as well. also have digestion issues.

Protein is critical for bone health. Bone is The primary chemical needed for calcium metabolism is hydrochloric acid. Since hydro- 30% protein matrix, which is 95% collagen fiber. chloric acid production naturally diminishes with A misconception about protein is that increased age, older people are more prone to incomplete protein intake increases urinary excretion of calcium digestion and thus more prone to os- calcium. While this is true, there is no evidence that the calcium is pulled from the bones. teoporosis.

Sugar is another concern. Sugar leaches However, osteoporosis is occurring in younger and younger age groups. The high level of calcium from the bones. Sodas are one of the stress felt by many Americans is compromising biggest contributors to osteoporosis, and in fact their digestion by causing reduced hydrochloric are considered by some a greater contributor acid production. Those taking antacids are par- than hormones are. This is because sodas ticularly susceptible since they are neutralizing not only contain sugar that leaches calcium, the very hydrochloric acid needed to break down but caffeine, which also leaches calcium. The worst ingredient is the phosphoric acid used to the calcium.

It is a misconception that hydrochloric acid give the bubbly carboncauses heartburn. In fact, your body’s own natu- ation. Phosphoric acid rally occurring acids do not damage the stomach competes with calcium lining. However, an absence of hydrochloric acid and shoves it out of the causes the body to ferment the food instead of bones. Sodas contribproperly digesting it. This fermentation process ute to bone fragility in (rotting) of food causes the release of organic three ways! Phosphoracids that burn (heartburn) and cause gas. ic acid makes bones Supplementation with betaine hydrochloride (a more brittle. Kids drinksource of the missing hydrochloric acid) can help ing sodas on a regular not only to heal the stomach, but also to break basis are more likely down calcium for absorption by the bones and to break a bone than kids who do not drink tissues.

The form of calcium you take is equally im- sodas.

Many popular drugs portant. Calcium carbonate, a cheap source of calcium found in many supplements, is the least contribute to osteopoabsorbable calcium compound. Calcium citrate rosis. Prednisone and malate and calcium lactate are the most easily absorbed forms of calcium, but much !MERICAN #ERTIFIED 0HARMACEUTICAL 'RADE more difficult to find.

The BEST natural pain reliever you will EVER find Milk, by the way, is for arthritis, all types of pain and healing of skin! not a good way to get &/2 ! &2%% 3!-0,% calcium in the bones #!,, 53 4/$!9 despite years of asser4/,, &2%% tions that it is. In fact, www.emulateproducts.com Money-back Guaranteed • Made in Idaho most doctors will tell

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other glucosteroid treatments induce osteoporosis.

Stomach medications such as Prilosec, Nexium, Zantac, and similar medications contribute to osteoporosis by inhibiting the body from properly digesting calcium and the other nutritional co-factors needed for bone health.

Medications in the class of drugs called bisphosphonates (such as Fosamax, Evista, Miacalcin, Actonel, etc.) are used for osteoporosis but interfere with the normal function of osteoclasts. They literally fossilize your bones - make them dead. Bone is not a static organ.

Making new bone is always a balance between

PAGE 8 IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT

building up and breaking down, not just stopping osteoclasts activity.

Exercise is another important factor in preventing osteoporosis. Impact exercise is important for bone building, assisting the body in laying down calcium in the bones.

APRIL/MAY 2009

As you consider your lifestyle and the steps you can take to avoid osteoporosis, remember that building bone is not simply a calcium or drug remedy. Many components must all be present as they work synergistically in your body. And do not forget digestion! Remember, bone is a living

entity and must be treated as such.

Dr. Carling is a Doctor of Oriental Medicine, Licensed Acupuncturist, Doctor of Naturopathy, Clinical Nutritionist, and Master Herbologist.

Visit www.vitalhealthandfitness.com to learn more. ISI

Website Arms Women With Information To Fight Breast Cancer (NAPSI) - It could be your mother, sister, or best friend. Unfortunately, most of us know someone who has been diagnosed with breast cancer.

If someone you are close to is diagnosed, you want quick access to as much credible information as possible. That is why the College of American Pathologists developed a new patient Website - MyBiopsy.org. The site is intended to serve as a resource to women who have been diagnosed with cancer, including breast cancer, or know someone who has been diagnosed.

Cancer is not one-size-fits-all. There are several different types of breast cancer, for instance. The new Website includes information on some of the most common types, including invasive ductal carcinoma, invasive lobular carcinoma, and ductal carcinoma in situ, as well as the breast condition, lobular carcinoma in situ.

It addresses such questions as, “How does the pathologist diagnose breast cancer?” and “What questions should I ask my doctor?”

“As a pathologist and a recovering breast cancer patient, I know how frightening and overwhelming a diagnosis of breast cancer can be,” said Kim A. Collins, M.D., FCAP, a pathologist at the Medical University of South Carolina in Columbia. “Our goal is to, hopefully, eliminate some of this angst by providing credible information that women can use.”

Each page on MyBiopsy.org was developed by pathologists - physicians who examine tissues and fluids to diagnose disease and to assist in

making treatment decisions. The pages include answers to questions about breast cancer, lists of available treatment options, and a glossary of key terms and pictures of normal and diseased tissues, among other features.

All of the information available on the College’s new Website is featured in three formats: HTML, PDF, and Microsoft Word. In addition to information about breast cancer, visitors to the site can also find information on more than 20 of the other most common cancer diseases and cancer-related conditions, including those affecting the lungs, colon, prostate, and skin, Post-Surgical Camisoles among others. and Bras “I know how truly imBy Wear Ease® portant it is for women diagnosed with breast Comfort with Style Featuring: cancer to understand built in support • feminine styling • quality finishing & fabric the disease they are fighting,” said Dr. Col866.251.0076 • www.wearease.com lins. “Because the more you know, the more empowered you become about your own health or the health of someone you love.”

For more information regarding MyBiopsy.org, contact the College of American nude, white, black Pathologists at publicaffairs@cap.org. ISI

Test Predicts Risk of Ischemic Stroke and Coronary Heart Disease

By Mark J. Alberts, MD Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, with over 600,000 coronary heart disease (CHD) deaths occurring annually.

Stroke, another form of cardiovascular disease, is the third leading cause of death in the United States. The risk of stroke is of particular interest to seniors: the National Institute on Aging reports that nearly 75% of all strokes occur in people over the age of 65 and the risk of having a stroke more than doubles each decade after the age of 55.

Patients lucky enough to survive a heart attack or stroke are then at increased risk for another cardiac event and a subsequent stroke. In fact, according to the American Heart Association, of the estimated 770,000 coronary events forecast this year, nearly 60% of these patients will suffer a recurrent event. With obesity at an all-time high in the United States, it is imperative that people educate themselves on their risks for life threatening incidents.

K n o w i n g Yo u r Risk - Often the first sign of a cardiac event or a stroke is the event itself. Several factors raise a person’s risk of a heart attack and stroke, including high (Cont’d on page 10)

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Test Predicts Risk Stroke and Heart Disease cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, smoking, and physical inactivity. The more risk factors a patient has, the greater the risk of having a heart attack or stroke. Some risk factors are inherent and cannot be changed, such as increasing age, family history, and gender. Several can be addressed with lifestyle changes such as exercise and diet, as well as medications.

Many mistakenly believe that heart attacks occur because of clogged arteries or plaque buildup (stenosis). In fact, approximately 68 percent of coronary events are caused by plaque rupture and thrombosis. Thrombosis occurs when unstable plaque enters the blood stream and causes blood clots that block the coronary or carotid arter-

- cont’d from page 8

ies resulting in a heart attack or stroke.

Fortunately, a simple new blood test goes beyond traditional risk factors to help identify patients at increased risk of heart disease and stroke. The PLAC® Test is the only FDA-approved blood test that aids in assessing risk for both CHD and ischemic stroke associated with atherosclerosis.

The PLAC Test measures levels of the marker lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (LpPLA2), a cardiovascular-specific inflammatory enzyme implicated in the formation of vulnerable, rupture-prone plaque. Used in conjunction with the evaluation of risk factors, the PLAC Test helps identify people who may not be identified by traditional risk factors but who may benefit from an aggressive treatment programs.

While risk factor identification remains one of the most important approaches to

preventing cardiovascular disease, traditional risk factors fail to identify many people at risk. In fact, approximately 50 percent of all coronary events strike people with low-to-moderate cholesterol levels, and about 20 percent occur in individuals with none of the four major risk factors (high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, or diabetes). Therefore, hidden or additional cardiovascular risk factors are likely to be common and there is a critical need to identify all patients at risk.

The PLAC Test appears to be sensitive and specific for identifying patients with vascular disease who are at increased risk for having a heart attack or ischemic stroke. It can be done using a simple blood test. It is important to talk to you physician to determine your risks. Patients interested in more information about the PLAC Test can visit www.plactest.com.

Mark J. Alberts, MD, is a professor of neurology at Northwestern University Medical School and the Director of the Stroke Program at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago. ISI

Overactive Bladder Is Not Just A Matter of Age

By Derek Derkacs, PA-C, MPAS Idaho Urologic Institute, Meridian Too often, people attribute aches, pains, and other ailments to aging. “That just comes with age, right?” Unfortunately, Overactive Bladder (OAB) is no different. But frequent, urgent urination is not a normal part of aging. If you know every bathroom in the mall or every gas station on the way to the grocery store, you might have a problem.

The hallmark symptom of OAB is urgency, but frequent urination often accompanies this urge.

Urgency is defined as a sudden need to urinate that cannot be deferred or ignored. Frequency is defined as urinating eight or more times in a 24-hour period. Getting up more than once at night to urinate is called nocturia. Incontinence, or leakage of urine, is sometimes a symptom of OAB. Men and women are equally affected by these symptoms – about 16%. These symptoms are

APRIL/MAY 2009

more likely to occur and become bothersome after the age of 40. For anatomical reasons, men are much less likely to have incontinence accompany these symptoms. About 1 in 10 women with OAB will leak, but only 1 in 50 men with OAB have a problem with leaking.

While OAB is not life threatening, it certainly can have a negative affect on quality of life and your overall health. OAB often affects social situations, has an economic impact particularly on those wearing pads for incontinence, can put you at higher risk for a fall, and can decrease the desire for intimacy. Because there are many other potential causes of frequent, urgent urination, these symptoms should not be ignored.

Taking the following simple and inexpensive steps can help: • Maintain a healthy weight. If you are diabetic, maintain good control of your blood sugar level.

• Quit smoking – nicotine is a bladder stimulant.

• Drink adequate water – it sounds counterintuitive to drink more water, but adequate hydration keeps urine dilute. Concentrated urine (dark, yellow) can stimulate the bladder.

• Limit caffeine, carbonation, and alcohol consumption – these, too, can stimulate the bladder.

• Maintain regular bowel movements and avoid constipation.

• Schedule urination by attempting to urinate every 2 hours, as this may help “retrain” your bladder.

• Pelvic floor (Kegel) exercises will help strengthen pelvic floor muscles to decrease urinary leakage. Yes, these are for men, too!

For more information, visit www.WebMD. com, www.UrologyHealth.org, or simply talk to your doctor or health care provider. ISI

Learn Exercise Magic in the Magic Valley

By Alice Schenk “I’m too old for that kind of exercise,” was the first excuse that went out the door for over nine hundred students enrolled at ten sites throughout the Magic Valley who attend the “Over 60 & Getting Fit” classes. Sponsored by the College of Southern Idaho (C.S.I.) in partnership with the Office on Aging; Filer, Buhl, Shoshone, ISDB school districts; and the Jerome, Rupert, and Hailey Recreation Departments, the classes are free to anyone over 60. The classes focus on cardiovascular function, flexibility, strength, balance, agility, posture, and providing a wonderful opportunity to socialize!

It is a challenge to keep up with the 150 students in Jan Mittleider’s class at the C.S.I. gym! They are fit, fun, and with a wide range of abilities, these folks define the challenge of being active. Ranging in age from 60-96, they are good examples of the maxim, “It’s never too late to start an exercise program.”

Although you expend energy, the return is well worth it. Like money in the bank, you will reap the rewards of an active lifestyle. In addition to burning calories, exercise decreases stress, reduces depression, helps you sleep better, and increases endorphins, natural “feel good” chemicals released from your body during exercise.

Over 30 years ago, Jan volunteered to teach Friday Yoga to a group of women. That program evolved over the years to its current form providing exercise instruction to people with a wide range of abilities. Over 60 & Getting Fit was nominated for the Administration on Aging Older Americans 2008 Program Champions Award.

Lively music starts the warm-up. Walking variations include marching, toe taps, posture checks, range of motion activities, and stretches.

Intensity gradually increases for an aerobic workout, with students slogging or jogging along together. A cool down with bands, bars, and floor mats is incorporated for upper body resistance workouts, squats, and lunges. A full body stretch, relaxation, or Tai Chi wraps up the class.

Hagerman’s Eunice McClellan, the oldest in the program, turned 97 in March. She has attended since classes started there three years ago, and says, “Class has helped me reach

N.S. Burbank, M.D. • C.J. Fatz, M.D. • K.C. Hewel, M.D. C.E. Ley, M.D. • A.J. Martinez, M.D. • K.P. McKlendin, M.D. B.J. McNamee, M.D. • A.E. Michalson, M.D. L.S. Michalson, M.D. • D.E. Moody, M.D. R.L. Opp, M.D. • T.F. Reichel, M.D. • R.S. Thornton, M.D. Diplomats of the American Board of Radiology 700 Ironwood Drive, Suite 110 Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814 208.666.3200 • Fax 208.666.3217

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farther than I have been able to do for years.”

Eunice is an inspiration to all “youngsters”.

Burley sisters Rosie Abner, 76, and Ella Bryant, 80, often walk to class at the C.S.I. Outreach Center, a mile one way. After class, they walk home. In summer, the two walk six miles along the canal bank.

“We really like it, we can do about everything in the class, and we love our instructor, Ro,” says Ella.

“I love everything about the class,” exclaims Bea Brower, who celebrated her 93rd birthday with the Rupert class, which sponsored a surprise party, complete with cupcakes, a clown, and a balloon bouquet! For Bea and others, the social aspect of the class is very important.

Charles and Renee Clark of Rupert know they have benefited from the class as they tend to their two acres of flowers, veggies, berries, and fruit trees.

“I attribute this lack of soreness in my shoulders to the exercises we do with our arms while walking and also to the fact that we use the stretch bands. Whenever possible I also flex my hands. This makes a difference when I use the small hand clippers.

Because my fingers are stronger, I have less discomfort,” relates Charles.

As the saying goes, “Time flies when you’re having fun” or as the Muppet Kermit would say, “Time’s fun when you’re having flies.” In either case, come join the fun! For information call C.S.I. at 208732-6475 or 208-7326488. ISI

IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 11

PAGE 12 IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT

APRIL/MAY 2009

Spring Spills Out at Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge

By Bernice Karnop Most people in the Northwest wait with anticipation for spring to arrive.

Dianna Ellis, manager of Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge just five miles west of Bonner’s Ferry thinks she may have the best seat in the house.

“It’s kind of like a cornucopia,” she says of the sights, sounds, smells, and sunshine that spill out over this protected spot nestled up against the Selkirk Mountains in North Idaho.

“Winter gets to be a drag. Then you see all this activity that tells you spring is finally coming. You step outside the door and hear all the different birds calling and singing,” she marvels. “These are things I appreciate. These are things that make a person rich.”

The 2,774 acre Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge sits on the west leg of the horseshoe carved by the Kootenai River that tumbles south out of Canada into Montana, curves through Idaho and swings north back into Canada. The refuge was established in 1965 primarily to preserve habitat and provide a resting area for migrating waterfowl, but the diverse habitat attracts wildlife of every kind. More than 300 different species have been identified, counting mammals, fish, amphibians, reptiles, and [Photo by Ray Walsh] birds. More than 223 species of birds have been observed here.

The diversity of habitat attracts the wildlife - open water ponds and marshes, creeks flowing from the Selkirk Mountains, meadows, grasslands, grain fields, and coniferous forest. The Purcell Mountains poke into the sky to the east and the Cabinet Mountains to the south.

Early March arrivals at the refuge include Canada geese, redwing blackbirds, and the big, graceful tundra swans. Resident geese and swans, which mate for life, go off in pairs to pick the territory where they will raise their young.

Waterfowl of many kinds arrive, including American coots and red-necked and pied-billed grebes. Blue wing teals begin their courtship flight and male

ruffed grouse start their drumming to attract females. Winnowing snipe fly high in the air and then drop suddenly, so their tail feathers make an unusual sound.

Visitors also come to see the moose, which wander out into the wetlands when the ice melts. Last year they were able to watch a set of twins being schooled by their mother. They also see other large mammals like black bear, elk, and deer.

Northern harriers, red-tailed hawks, and American kestrels hunt over the refuge. Osprey and great blue heron search for fish and frogs in the ponds and streams.

Last year one pair of bald eagles fledged three youngsters, unusual because the stronger nestlings often bully the smallest out of the nest as they compete for food.

Dianna says she can hardly wait for the return of the hummingbirds. The feisty little males chase each other away from the feeders, land on each other’s heads, and peep crossly at each other. Three different kinds of hummingbirds frequent the refuge, the Calliope, the Black Chinned, and the Rufous.

“The male Calliope hummingbird has fuchsia colored feathers on its neck and is just so beautiful,” Dianna says. The Calliope hummingbird is the smallest bird in North America.

Although you can see wildlife at any time, your best chances are in the early morning, about 7 a.m., or in the evening. Binoculars are a must if you want to get a good look.

A good place to start your visit is by taking the four and a half mile one-way auto tour road. The gravel road begins at the office and exits on the county road near the mouth of Deep Creek. They do not plow it in the winter but you can enjoy it on skis, snowshoes, or on foot. Once the snow melts, the road firms up, making way for vehicles including large RVs and busses.

Easy hiking trails invite you into the refuge for close up views of wildlife and scenery. Chickadee Trail is wheelchair accessible with benches and interpretive signs. Deep Creek Trail along the top of a dike takes you two

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miles through cottonwood and other broadleaf trees and the Island Pond Trail circles the pond on a one and a half mile loop.

Steeper trails include the short Myrtle Creek Falls Trail that begins right across from the Refuge office and switchbacks for a quarter of a mile up to an overlook of the Myrtle Creek Falls, a lovely 100-foot cascade. The Forest Trail climbs for a mile through the conifers for great vistas of the Selkirk and Purcell Mountain ranges. On a clear day in the spring, a special sight is alpenglow, the rosy light that bathes snow-covered mountain peaks when they are touched by the sun at sunrise and sunset.

Dianna is quick to say Boundary Country offers plenty of other attrac-

Wildlife Volunteers Wanted

By Michael Young, Assistant Volunteer Coordinator Idaho Department of Fish and Game – Southwest Region If cabin fever has you itching to get outside, consider helping with a project through Fish and Game’s Volunteer Program. A variety of interesting and worthwhile projects is scheduled for the coming weeks, all of them designed to benefit wildlife habitat and the people of southwest Idaho.

Here is a sample of upcoming projects: • Big Game Winter Range Restoration - Thousands of sagebrush and bitterbrush seedlings will be planted in the weeks ahead on the Boise River Wildlife Management Area east of Boise.

This project started March 7 with the final planting scheduled for April 4. Transportation and all planting tools will be provided.

Volunteers have planted hundreds of thousands of bitterbrush and sagebrush seedlings during the past twenty years to restore native bitterbrush and sagebrush habitats in Southwest Idaho. In the process, they have saved the agency hundreds of thousands of dollars. In addition to saving the agency money, volunteers A volunteer plants bitterbrush and have improved hundreds of acres sagebrush seedlings across from of winter range and taken their Spring Shores on the Boise River Wildnewfound education back to the life Management Area in March of 2008. city. We hope that this project will [Photo by Kirsten Severud] educate folks about the importance of winter range and open land.

Bitterbrush and sagebrush – both native shrubs – comprise an important component of big game winter ranges in Idaho and throughout the west.

Besides providing essential food sources for deer, elk, and other wildlife, bitterbrush and sagebrush provide cover from the elements, protection from predators, and nesting habitat.

• Snake River Cleanup - Fish and Game works hard to keep Idaho’s recreation areas clean, but we can always use a helping hand. Every year, dozens of volunteers venture out to help clean up Map Rock and adjacent recreation sites including the stretch of river below Swan Falls dam. This year, the cleanup is scheduled for April 11. Volunteers will enjoy the camaraderie of others interested in keeping Idaho clean.

Unfortunately, there is never a shortage of trash dumped along the riverbanks by thoughtless people.

The hope is that an increase in public awareness of the problem will lead to fewer incidents of this irresponsible behavior.

• Andrus Wildlife Management Area Annual Fence Maintenance - Fish and Game manages the Andrus Wildlife Management Area (WMA) northwest of Cambridge that encompasses about 24,000 acres of prime mule deer and elk winter range and provides habitat for a number of upland birds and other game species. Domestic livestock grazing occurs on the area and the annual volunteer project April 25 is necessary to maintain the many miles of fences on the WMA. Volunteers are welcome to spend the night in the WMA bunkhouse. A dinner to remember will be served after the full day of work. Volunteers are guaranteed hard work, steep terrain, good food, good people, and good fun. Transportation can be arranged from Boise.

• Little Salmon River Riparian Restoration

IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 13

tions. Bonner’s Ferry, full of neat little shops and eating spots, was voted the friendliest city in Idaho. The Selkirk Loop (www.selkirkloop.org) is a 300-mile all American Scenic Byway, which circles the Selkirk Mountains in Idaho and British Columbia. A new “Two Nation Birding Vacation” found on the Selkirk Loop website tells visitors where to look for birds along this route.

If you are not into birding, the scenery, waterfalls, and wildlife will keep you in awe as you travel in Boundary Country. Things that indeed make us all rich.

To plan your trip, visit Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge at www.fws. gov/kootenai or call the refuge at 208-267-3888. ISI

PAGE 14 IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT

- The Southwest Region Volunteer Program has spent many years working in Meadows Valley restoring riparian habitat. Project goals include improving water quality and fish habitat as the river flows down the canyon into prime salmon and steelhead habitat. A secondary goal involves educating Idaho citizens about the value of a healthy riparian ecosystem that improves water quality by cooling the water and stopping erosion. This promotes fish and wildlife habitat and keeps a higher volume of water flowing into the summer.

APRIL/MAY 2009

Project volunteers will be involved building fence, planting native shrubs and building willow weavings (a process to stabilize eroding cut banks). This project begins April 18 and will continue each Saturday into mid-June with the exception of Memorial Day weekend. Expect extra long days because of travel time to and from project work sites.

• Free Fishing Day - Each year, Idaho Fish and Game offers free fishing to the citizens of Idaho. Free Fishing Day this year will be June 13.

Our hope is that everyone interested in fishing will

get involved in the annual event. Fish and Game offers fishing clinics throughout the state at local ponds and often provides fishing poles, bait, and food for kids, families, and individuals of all ages.

We encourage parents to get their kids outside and fish!

To participate, call the Southwest Region volunteer office at 208-327-7095 or email volunteer coordinator Michael Young at myoung@idfg.idaho. gov. A schedule with upcoming projects can be found on the Fish and Game website at http://fishandgame.idaho.gov/cms/about/volunteer. ISI

Best Rail Trails Pacific Northwest

By Natalie Bartley Best Rail Trails Pacific Northwest is the complete guide to walking, jogging, biking, and cross-country skiing the rail trail systems in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho. Written by a local with expert knowledge of her state, this easy-to-use book provides mile-by-mile descriptions of forty-eight of the Pacific Northwest’s most popular rural and urban rail trails, plus complete listings of the region’s other rail trails.

This comprehensive directory to the state’s most popular rail trails also includes: • Full trail profiles, including length, access points, difficulty rating, and surface type • Detailed trail maps • At-a-glance icons for easy identification of rail trails that best suit one’s interests • Information on wheelchair accessibility; parking, rest rooms, and places to eat along the trail;

location of ranger stations, visitor’s centers, and depot museums; and where to rent bikes.

About the Author - A Pennsylvania native, Natalie L. Bartley moved to Idaho in 1987 to work as an outdoor program manager and has lived there ever since. She has over 500 articles to her credit in publications including Paddler, Canoe and Kayak, Ski Patrol, Women in the Outdoors, The Idaho Statesman, and the Idaho Senior Independent. When she is not working as a freelance writer, she can be found mountain biking, whitewater kayaking, cross-country skiing, or exploring the outdoors with her yellow Labrador retriever.

Best Rail Trails Pacific Northwest, By Natalie Bartley ISBN 978-0-7627-4607-1 • $15.95 • Paperback • 6 x 9 • 368 pages • January, 2009 FalconGuides® is an imprint of The Globe Pequot Press / www.globepequot.com. ISI

Does Golf Reflect Values?

By Lois Greene Stone, Senior Wire What do we teach our children and grandchildren about values? And what sport is different as an individual calls a penalty on him/herself.

Seems too many politicians lie and cheat, play ignorant when caught or put blame on another. As long as figureheads can get away with

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such tactics, the idea spills over to the average citizen attempting to stretch the truth or feign ignorance.

My younger son, David, decided at age 15 he wanted to learn to play golf. He had been successful with school and summer camp activities, and we wondered why he would take up a game that offered humiliation as easily as excellence. At a summer camp in the Adirondacks, a plaque proved his camp record for swimming 2.5 miles non-stop. He sailed alone after he earned the American Red Cross certification, and played basketball, baseball, volleyball, and ping-pong, and water-skied with ease. In high school, he ran track and cross-country.

Winters he bowled and played indoor tennis, and emerged with the Class Champ Cup from an indoor tennis clinic.

We explained the rules he would need, the etiquette required, and then hoped he would not measure success around indifference to both. One does not know about one’s self until challenged, and we hoped he would have integrity.

Golf. People laughed at him when he posted his first nine-hole score that had three digits. He counted every stroke, missed hit, penalty, and a few of his playing partners thought he was crazy.

An ego trip of lies was less important than an accurate record. The first time he had two digits for eighteen holes, he knew it was not an automatic expectation as golf is a humbling game.

So he opened himself to embarrassment, frustration, and fleeting exhilaration, in a sport where an angled thumb could change a swing’s arc and become failure. His sister and brother, who did not play golf, probably thought he ought to stick to the sports that were fun and not often frustrating.

APRIL/MAY 2009

My husband and I were quietly amazed at David’s personal growth as he found out about self-standards, honesty, his need to play by United States Golf Association rules, self-esteem, and the ability to accept each hit as his own error or effort. He saw ball movers and stroke droppers, heard peers use the sun-was-in-my-eyes excuses, and was willing to face ridicule from other players rather than join with their methods. He became more comfortable golfing with my husband and me than with guys his age, but we kept telling him that not everyone makes up his own rules.

Knocking his ball into a hazard was an aggravation, but testing his ability to emerge from it and occasionally successfully landing on the green had him smile and say, “I’m on.” He certainly was as a teen, and still is to this day.

David’s son, Kevin, is 16. He recorded his first nine-hole round at age 14 with a smile of accomplishment having played completely by the rules.

He shrugged off smirks from those people whose egos took preference over correct play and chuckled that he actually would post such a big number.

Kevin entered an 18-hole Junior Championship in late August 2006 even though he had played no golf all summer having been in camp in the Berkshire Mountains, and was a new golfer besides. Some of the participants had handicaps already in the teens, while Kevin’s was too high to compute, and the event was total strokes and not handicapped. But Kevin, with his innocence and good manners wanted the experience.

Like his dad, he has learned about his own integrity, honesty, need to

IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 15

play by USGA standards, accepting a whiff as a stroke and not a practice swing, and his understanding that each hit was his own error or effort. Not concerned with a number identifying who he is or what he is capable of, he completed the round tired and happy with himself, and did not resort to the No-Card that adult golfers tell the pro when they feel their score would be mocked. We did not know if he was naive or courageous.

In the summer of 2008, my husband, son David, and grandson Kevin made up a foursome. There is a cliché about apples not falling too far from the tree. When Kevin blasted out of a sand trap, after counting the several attempts with the dimpled sphere still stuck in the grains, he grinned and exclaimed, “I’m on.” We knew from the way he sees golf as a mirror of his personal standards that he will be “on” for his entire life. ISI

North Idaho College Foundation If you want to ensure the assets you took a lifetime to acquire are managed and distributed the way you prefer, make sure to take the time to effectively plan your estate. Proper planning can translate into a simpler process for your heirs and may save them thousands in taxes. Most importantly, it can ensure your wishes are followed. A sound plan will avoid probate and keep the state out of your personal affairs. You may even establish a plan that actually pays you income while you are still living - through a gift annuity or a unitrust, for example.

The North Idaho College Foundation is dedicated to educating the public about the importance of proper estate planning. We understand that retirement and estate planning can be time consuming and confusing. That is why we are offering a free online estate and charitable planning resource. Our website offers a complete spectrum of information, providing investment calculators, full explanations of various trusts and investments, and thorough explanations of the tax implications of each option. Visit our website at www.nic.edu/ foundation to get started! For assistance, please call us at 208-769-3271. ISI

Improving Your Swing (NAPSI) - A growing number of golfers who want to improve their game are aiming for the bookstore instead of heading out to the driving range. That is where they will find the latest sage advice from one of golf’s true gurus.

In “The Plane Truth for Golfers,” Jim Hardy told golfers what to do in order to improve at golf.

In his new book, “The Plane Truth for Golfers Master Class” (McGraw-Hill Trade), he teaches golfers how to do the right things at address, on the backswing and during the downswing, in order to build a solid, fundamentally sound swing and hit on-target shots by controlling the flight of the ball.

The new publication focuses on the art of the golf swing and is a unique, player-specific how-to book that allows readers to feel as if Hardy-considered by many pros to be “the most knowledgeable teacher of the game”-is giving them a private lesson.

In “Master Class,” Hardy teaches golfers how to start from scratch and build a technically correct one- or two-plane swing or revamp an old faulty swing by implementing the right bodyarm-club keys into their existing action.

Jim Hardy has been fixing the swings of professional and amateur golfers since 1977.

He was voted one of “America’s 50 Greatest Teachers” by Golf Digest and ranked among the “Top 100 Teachers” by Golf magazine. Both his instructional volumes are available in bookstores. ISI

Warhawk Air Museum World War II Museum and Gift Shop Original aircraft from World War II. A wedding dress made from World War II Japanese parachute silk.

Trench art and sweetheart pillows.

photo

by Ph il Wa llick

Explore personal histories from the battlefield and the home front with us!

We are also available as a venue for special events. Call for details!

SUMMER EVENTS May 30 & 31: Curtiss P-40s “A Salute to the AVG Flying Tigers” July 11 & 12: P-51 Mustangs “A Salute to North American Aviation”

Since 1989

August 8 & 9: B-25 Mitchell Bomber “A Salute to the Doolittle Raiders “

Nampa Airport • www.warhawkairmuseum.org

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PAGE 16 IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT

APRIL/MAY 2009

APRIL/MAY 2009

IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 17

Take Advantage Of Volunteer Travel

By Ann Hattes “Voluntourism” (volunteer tourism) is becoming an increasingly popular and unique way to combine philanthropy with an exciting new adventure.

Whether vacationers want to rescue wild animals in the African bush or reconstruct historical sites in the south of France, thousands of exhilarating and charitable opportunities await the hands-on traveler.

Volunteer Vacations: Short-Term Adventures That Will Benefit You and Others (10th edition, Chicago Review Press) profiles 150 charitable organizations that sponsor extraordinary volunteer opportunities worldwide, from the budget-friendly to the lavish. With this definitive sourcebook, voluntourists can have a rewarding and influential experience, tailored to their particular skills and interests.

There are details on accommodations, site conditions, cost, skills needed, language requirements, project details, and other essential information. An extensive index makes it easy to locate trips by cost (free - $3000 plus), season, length (one day – six months), project location, and type (political action, medical/ health, conservation, agricultural, education).

Inspirational anecdotes from trip veterans on their “voluntouring” escapades also give insight into the day-to-day

expectations.

New to this edition are special sections that detail family-friendly excursions like to the Wyoming Dinosaur Center, as well as trips appropriate for disabled persons. The book also includes information on long-term aid organizations such as AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO).

Volunteer Vacations lists 10 questions to ask before signing on with a volunteer organization.

1. Does the work involved mesh with what I want to do on my vacation?

Will it allow me to develop or use skills that are important to me?

2. Will the project take me to a place that I want to go?

3. Do I have the same goals and values as those of the organization?

(This is especially important for organizations that have overt political or religious goals; you do not want to end up promoting a cause, directly or indirectly, that you do not believe in.)

4. What do past volunteers say about their experiences with this organization?

5. What are living conditions at the site like?

6. What will my exact job responsibilities be? How much scut work (cooking, cleaning, filing, and so on) will I be expected to do? Keep in mind that someone has to do this work, and it is often divided among all of the employees and volunteers, from top to bottom.

7. How much does it cost to participate? What exactly is included in a program fee?

8. When does the project take place, how long does it last, and does it fit with my schedule?

9. Will I be working in a group? What is the profile of the average volunteer? Age range? What are the motivations of the other people in the group?

10. What kind of training or orientation is offered? (This information is crucial for international organizations, where you might be working in a culture very different from your own.)

Given proper planning, volunteer travel can be exciting and rewarding. A travel provider like I-to-I has been a leader in volunteer adventures, sending yearly about 5,000 volunteers to 500 projects in more than 30 countries. For information, visit www.i-to-i.com or call 800-985-5882. ISI

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PAGE 18 IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT

APRIL/MAY 2009

By Connie Daugherty The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer & Annie Barrows, The Dial Press, NY; 2008 “P.S. You write charming little notes.” Remember pen pals - strangers you knew only through letters? In our contemporary society of email, text messages, Facebook, MySpace, and Twitter the ability to write charming notes is quickly becoming a lost art. The authors of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society have turned this dying skill into art and a delightful – and charming - novel about life on the small, German-occupied island of Guernsey during World War II and immediately after its

end. Made up entirely of little notes, longer letters, and occasional telegrams exchanged between friends and strangers who are destined to become friends, this is an easy reading, tender story full of little known historic fact. There is no narrator, no description, and no actual dialogue because the characters provide their own narration and description in each individual voice.

The technique is distinctive - written entirely in first person and from different perspectives - and it works. The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society is perfect springtime reading.

The year is 1946. The war has ended and with it the occupation and the bombings, but much of England is still feeling the effects. Juliet

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Ashton writes to her long-time friend, Sophie. “[T]he truth is that I’m gloomy, gloomier than I ever was during the war. Everything is so broken… the roads, the buildings, the people.

Especially the people.” Peace, it seems, will be a long time coming for the people who struggled through the war.

During the war, Juliet wrote a popular newspaper column that her friend and publisher, Sidney, has compiled into a book. The book is selling well and Juliet is busy touring much of England doing book signings, an activity that would not have been possible during the war.

She is also searching for a topic for another book. Meanwhile, life and the slow recovery and reawakening go on - for Juliet and on the island of Guernsey.

“My name is Dawsey Adams, and I live on a farm… on Guernsey. I know of you because I have an old book that once belonged to you,” begins a letter Juliet receives a few days after her sad letter to Sophie. After five years of occupation and isolation, the residents of Guernsey can finally, freely communicate with the mainland. “I love Charles Lamb,” the letter goes on. “Charles Lamb made me laugh during the German Occupation, especially when he wrote about the roast pig. The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society came into being because of a roast pig,” the writer continues.

Thus begins a pen-pal type correspondence.

Dawsey and Juliet have nothing in common except their love of books and the fact that they survived the horrors of war. Then Juliet gets a writing assignment and she suddenly has an excuse to write not only Dawsey, but also to some of his friends in the book club. She writes to Dawsey to explain.

“The Times has asked me to… address the practical, moral, and philosophical value of reading - spread out over three issues and by three different authors.… You can see I need help,” she writes. Juliet goes on to ask if she can feature the Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society in the articles.

A flurry of letters between Juliet and the various members of the odd book club follows.

“Best to say we weren’t a true literary society at first… most of us hadn’t had much to do with books since our school years,” admits one letter writer. He goes on to explain how what began as a farce and a way to escape punishment by the German guards developed into a true love

APRIL/MAY 2009

of books.

Each letter tells a similar story of dealing with the German occupation, “They just flew in peaceably… and occupied us for five years.” The experience changed the lives of these simple people. Gradually, letter by letter, a fuller picture of what it was like develops. Along the way a few secrets are revealed - maybe it’s easier to pour out your heart on paper to a stranger than it is to someone you know face to face.

Meanwhile, as Juliet continues her book signings she discovers she has a secret admirer - she is receiving flowers almost daily. He turns out to be an American - the son of a well-known and wealthy paper manufacturer. He seems like an ideal suitor and he makes it clear that he is crazy about Juliet - but Juliet cannot keep her mind off Guernsey.

“I want to go to Guernsey…. I’ve grown very fond of my Guernsey friends,” Juliet writes Sidney. “I’m not sure what form a book would take, or if I could even write one at all.” But she knows she needs to go, needs to try.

So Juliet boards the afternoon mail boat at Weymouth to cross the channel to St. Peter Port. What she finds on the island changes her life forever.

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society is one of those books that stays with you long after the last page is finished. “I hope… that my book will illuminate my belief that love of art - be it poetry, storytelling, painting, sculpture, or music - enables people to transcend any barrier man has yet devised,” writes author Mary Ann Shaffer in the acknowledgments. ISI

Coping With Difficult Feelings

By Lisa M. Petsche Caring for an aging relative involves physical, psychological, emotional, and financial demands.

It can be particularly challenging when the person has heavy hands-on needs, a difficult personality, or mental impairment.

Caregivers may experience a variety of distressing emotions along the way. The most common ones, along with precipitating factors, are: • Guilt because, unlike their relative, they enjoy good health; they haven’t, until recently, been significantly involved in their relative’s life; they have mixed feelings about being a caregiver; they sometimes lose patience with their relative; they made a promise that they would never place their relative in long-term care and they’re not sure if they can keep it.

• Resentment because they have had to make personal and financial sacrifices, such as giving up a job, leisure pursuits, or letting other relationships slip; their relative has treated them badly in the past; their relative is demanding, and critical and they don’t feel appreciated; family

members aren’t providing much, if any, help with their relative’s care; family members are critical of their care provision.

• Frustration due to the helplessness of being unable to change the course of their relative’s illness; personality differences between them and their relative; having to contend with nuisance behaviors, such as repetitive questioning and rummaging; being unable to reason with their cognitively impaired relative.

• Anxiety and fear stemming from safety concerns, such as falls or, if their relative has dementia, household accidents, wandering away from home or physical aggression; concerns about what the future holds in terms

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of their relative’s disease progression, care needs, and their own physical and mental health.

• Loneliness arising from social isolation; feeling no one understands what they are going through; having to do things alone that they used to do with their relative, such as attending social events; being unable to relate to their relative in the usual ways due to changes in his cognition.

• Sadness because their relative is gradually losing his abilities and perhaps his personality; joint plans for the future must go unrealized; they cannot imagine life without their relative.

• Anger that their relative is ill or disabled; he is overly dependent on them; he refuses mobility aids or other recommended equipment; he refuses community support services. Feelings of anger may be directed towards their relative - especially if his lifestyle may have contributed to his disease, family members, healthcare providers (continually finding fault with them) or God, or they may be non-specific. Caregivers may also be angry at themselves for taking on the caregiving role or not being more assertive with their relative, family members, or healthcare professionals.

While a certain degree of caregiving-related stress is inevitable, when left unchecked it can lead to burnout. Physical warning signs include fatigue, memory problems, sleep difficulties, significant weight loss or gain, frequent illness, and development of chronic health problems.

Some emotional red flags are frequent crying, frequent irritation by small annoyances, difficulty controlling one’s temper, feeling overwhelmed, feeling inadequate, and feeling hopeless. In severe cases, burnout can lead to abuse of the care receiver; this signals the need for immediate help.

Coping strategies If you are a caregiver, read on for some strategies to help keep stress manageable.

• Look after your health: eat nutritious meals, get adequate rest, exercise, and schedule regular medical checkups.

• Find something relaxing you can do to give yourself a break every day - perhaps quietly enjoying a cup of tea, reading something uplifting, writing in a journal, or listening to music.

• Stay connected to your friends and your faith community or other supportive groups. Find at least one person with whom you can talk openly, who will listen and empathize.

• Accept the reality of the illness. Focus on your relative’s abilities, not disabilities, and the things you can still do together.

• Acknowledge your relative’s right to make decisions you disagree with (provided he is mentally capable).

• Let go of past grievances. Seek counseling if necessary to help you move forward in your relationship with your relative.

• Don’t promise your relative you will never place him in long-term care, because you do not know what the future holds.

• Take things one day at a time. Recognize that there will be good days and bad days, and be extra good to yourself on the bad ones.

• Remind yourself that you are doing your best and are only human. Give yourself permission to feel all emotions that surface.

• Join a community caregiver support group or an Internet group if it is hard to get out.

It is very important that as a caregiver, you acknowledge that you cannot do it alone. Accept offers of help. Ask other family members to share the load and be specific about what you need. Find out about community support services, including respite care options, and take full advantage of them. Information can be obtained from your local office on aging.

Lisa M. Petsche is a medical social worker and a freelance writer specializing in health and seniors’ issues. ISI

APRIL/MAY 2009

What to do when a relative resists help

By Lisa M. Petsche If you have an aging parent or other close relative who lives alone, you may become worried that he or she is not managing well.

Typically, family members’ concerns center around one or more of the following: mobility, nutrition, housekeeping, grooming, financial management, medication use, safety, energy level, mood, and mental status of their senior relative.

No matter how difficult it may be to look after their day-to-day needs, some older adults are reluctant to ask for help or accept it when offered.

The most common reasons are included below.

Denial. They have difficulty accepting the reality of aging and the prospect of increased dependence on others.

Pride. They do not want to appear weak or incompetent.

Discomfort. They do not like the idea of strangers coming into their home, or the role reversal involved in accepting help from younger generations, particularly their children.

Guilt. They do not want to worry or inconvenience their family.

Anxiety. They fear they will be pressured into leaving the comfort of their home, end up in a care facility, and generally lose control over their life Resentment. They perceive concerned family members as critical or intrusive.

Personality. They have found change difficult or been independent, stubborn, or private.

Finances. They are concerned about the cost of recommended equipment and services, due to limited means or frugality.

Cognition. They are in the early stages of dementia and lack insight into their needs and capabilities.

While a certain degree of reluctance is to be expected, if your relative continues to resist needed help, they may experience a crisis that lands them in the hospital.

How to prevent this from happening? The approach with your relative depends to some extent on their personality and the nature of your relationship, but here are some general guidelines.

Before talking with your relative, research resources in their community that may be of help.

This way you will be prepared with solutions.

Raise concerns gently and gradually. Use “I” statements – for example, “I notice that…” or “I’m worried that….” Provide concrete examples.

Emphasize your relative’s abilities and how these can be supported. A strengths perspective helps preserve their self-esteem.

Organize a family meeting if your relative denies problems or resists suggestions. Consider including someone from outside the family, such as a trusted physician or a good friend of theirs who shares your concerns. Your relative may perceive them as more objective and consequently take

their concerns to heart.

If your relative objects to help, gently probe to learn their reasoning. Listen and respect their point of view. Be attuned to underlying feelings (such as sadness or fear), acknowledge them, and demonstrate empathy.

Share brochures or information from the Internet about medical equipment or community services that may be of help. Highlight any that are free or subsidized.

Focus initially on the least intrusive options, such as setting up an emergency response system or obtaining medical equipment.

Acknowledge how uncomfortable it may initially be to change their habits, alter their environment, or allow strangers into their home.

Offer to pay or contribute to the cost of medical equipment, day programs, or home services if your relative has limited income.

Bear in mind that choosing not to follow the recommendations of healthcare professionals or family members does not mean a senior is mentally incompetent.

Recognize, too, that opinions about what constitutes an acceptable standard of living and quality of life can vary considerably, and that frail seniors - struggling to maintain control in the face of declining health, relationship losses, or other difficulties - often have a different perspective from family members.

Since mentally capable people have the right to put themselves at risk, at some point you may need to agree to disagree with your relative about what is best for them in order to preserve the relationship.

Stay in close contact and make regular visits to monitor their safety and well-being. And keep collecting information about community resources so you are ready to jump in and assist your relative in making informed decisions and necessary arrangements should they have a change of mind or a crisis occurs. ISI

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Companion Planting

By Clare Hafferman Since half the fun of gardening is experimenting, I want to tell you about one method that will let you experiment during the entire growing season. It is called “companion planting” and supposedly has been practiced for as many years as people have tilled the soil.

Companion planting is not based on scientific theory. It is basis is anecdotal – gardeners’ observations are passed along in print or by word of mouth. It is also an organic type of cultivation that consists of putting plants near each other for mutual benefit. It includes plants that fix nitrogen in the soil, and some plants that are capable of repelling insects, plants, or other pests through the chemicals in their roots or by their scent. The best-known example of this is the common marigold, credited with repelling nematodes, which are thread-like worms. French marigolds are best because their roots make the soil inhospitable to this plant pest.

This was illustrated by ancient vases and grave furniture excavated in Ecuador and Peru by archaeologists who found paintings of the marigold minuta next to pictures of the crops that people cultivated for food. Farmers in pre-Inca times grew corn, tomatoes, beans, and potatoes on the same ground, without crop rotations for many years, by fertilizing with bird guano and fish waste and by planting Marigolds among their crops.

We do not have access to their ancient methods of fertilization, so now it is suggested that gardeners use diversified plantings to resist insects’ damage and mix aromatic herbs and some flowers between vegetables. Some vegetables and herbs enhance each other’s growth and an equal number of plants do not get along at all.

The gardener who decides to do this should keep a journal. For example, plant peas by carrots, interplanted with chives, versus planting them by fennel or dill, where supposedly they will not grow well at all.

The versatile herbs that do double-duty to ward off insects and help growth enhance your cooking. They are basil, thyme, chives, garlic, marjoram, fennel, dill, oregano, parsley, lemon

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balm, tarragon, and sage. The flowers used for certain advantages are Hyssop, Nasturtiums, Foxgloves, the Marigolds, and Larkspur.

Basil attracts bees and repels aphids, fruit flies, whiteflies, and houseflies. That should be enough to recommend it to anyone, and it makes a good border plant for tomatoes since it makes them more disease-resistant. Other bee favorites are thyme, lemon balm, hyssop, lavender, mint, rosemary, and sage. There are 60 different kinds of thyme grown in the U.S. The most common are the variegated, lemon, and creeping thyme.

This herb needs good drainage, so add some washed sand to the soil, and do not over water it. Grow thyme by cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, kale, Chinese cabbage, and turnips.

Mint, oregano, and hyssop will also stave off the egg-laying butterflies among cabbages.

Clumps of chives have long been used in rose gardens or next to individual bushes to defend the plants against aphids. Their purple flowers are attractive. As an odd concoction, a tea made of ground chives and horsetail, then strained and used as a spray, is supposed to inhibit apple scab. Then a planting of nasturtiums, foxglove, or marjoram, around the base of an apple tree, will improve the tree’s growth.

Nasturtiums are also credited with telling aphids to move on and if grown in a greenhouse will protect plants against the pesky whitefly.

Allowed to wander down a vegetable row, their flowers produce oil that attracts insects.

Every garden also needs garlic - if you keep it away from peas, beans, cabbage, and strawberries. However, in a group of herbs or in its own plot, it keeps mosquitoes away. Crush four bulbs with some hot peppers, add this to water and some Ivory or Fels Naptha soap, blend the mixture, strain it, and you have a spray to ward off ants, cabbage worms, aphids, and maybe even the neighbor’s dog.

Another useful flower used in companion planting is Yarrow, both the wild white variety and the hybrids in yellow, rust, and pink flowers.

Yarrow is an ancient wound healer, but in this case it attracts beneficial insects and if you add it to the compost pile, it has copper in its leaves and stems. Like chives, you never witness any evidence that bugs eat either plant.

Larkspur is sometimes used as an insect deterrent because its leaves are poisonous to most insects, including aphids and thrips.

Knowing these helpful herbs and flowers is a beginning. The rest is planting vegetables that accommodate each other and avoiding those that do not want to share bed space.

You can begin planting radishes, carrots, loose-leaf lettuce, and spinach as soon as the soil can be worked. A bad frost can damage carrots, so plantings in May might do better. From April 12 to May 1, you can plant peas, onion seeds and sets, lettuce, radishes, Swiss chard, spinach, leeks, broccoli, Brussels sprouts and Savoy cabbage. Cabbage appreciates being next to beans, beets, potatoes, mint, thyme, sage, rosemary, and dill. Spinach grows well by a strawberry bed and Swiss chard can be next to beets and onions. Cauliflower likes to locate

APRIL/MAY 2009

by beans.

Two weeks before the last frost, you can consider planting potatoes, beans, cucumbers, corn, more carrots, and squash. Keep an ear on the weather report and have an old sheet handy for covering.

Planting by Memorial Day, you should be safe putting in tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and pumpkins. Remember that tomatoes like parsley, carrots, chives, basil, and the marigolds.

IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 23

With this much information in your arsenal, you should be able to just shoot out that door and begin planting in a different manner. You might just be the “companion” your vegetables have been waiting for! ISI

Tips Today For A Cool Tomorrow (NAPSI) - Taking a few steps now can improve the odds that your air-conditioning system will be able to deal with warm weather heat and humidity.

Begin by clearing the area around your outdoor compressor, removing leaves, twigs, and other debris that may have accumulated over the winter, and providing clear, uncluttered space around and above the unit.

Next, check the system’s filters, typically located along the return duct. Dirty filters can block airflow and reduce system efficiency, so it is important to clean or replace them regularly, preferably every month.

Holes or separated joints in the ductwork can also affect airflow and efficiency, so turn your

system on and make sure air is flowing properly through the vents. If you suspect a leak in the ductwork, hire a professional to make the necessary repairs.

Use this time to caulk and weather-strip around doors and windows. This often-overlooked step will help keep cool air inside your home during warm summer months and warm air outside.

It is also a good idea to add insulation around air-conditioning ducts when they are located in unconditioned spaces, such as attics, crawl spaces, and garages.

Finally, contact a certified technician to do a preseason check of your system.

An annual inspection should include cleaning indoor and outdoor coils; checking your system’s

refrigerant charge and adjusting it, if necessary, to meet manufacturer specifications; cleaning and adjusting blower components to provide proper system airflow; lubricating all moving parts; inspecting the condensate drain for clogs that can cause water damage, affect indoor humidity levels and breed bacteria and mold; checking thermostat settings and system controls to ensure proper and safe operation; and tightening all electrical connections and measuring voltage and current on motors.

To locate a contractor that employs NATEcertified technicians, visit www.hvacradvice.com.

If a certified technician says your air-conditioning system needs to be replaced, choose an energyefficient model. ISI

A Green Makeover For Your Bathroom (NAPSI) - When you are looking to go green in your home, the bathroom is a great place to start.

So how do you stay clean, promote good health, and go green in your bathroom?

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, showering is one of the top uses of residential water, representing approximately 17 percent of residential water use, totaling 1.2 trillion gallons per year.

An easy water-saving solution is to replace your fixtures with low-flow showerheads such as the Waterpik® EcoFlow® 1.5, which can save up to one gallon of water a minute and an estimated $90 this year in household utility expenses.

In addition to thinking green in the shower, there are other easy ways to go green in the bathroom. Whether in search of organic towels, recycled soaps or just quick fixes to renovate your eco-friendly bathroom, consider taking some of these small steps: • Switch all the light bulbs in your bathroom from standard filament bulbs to compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) to reduce your energy use.

• Consider replacing your current toilet with a dual-flush toilet that uses one or two flushes depending on the waste to save thousands of gallons of water a year.

• Clean your bathroom with green, nontoxic or hemp. cleaners made from common household ingredi• Maintain your new green ways with regular ents such as lemon juice or green cleaners sold maintenance, like fixing leaky faucets. at the store.

For more information, visit www.waterpikeco• Save up to eight gallons of water a day by flow.com. ISI simply turning off the tap while you brush your teeth.

• Choose recycled materials such as reclaimed glass tiles for bathroom walls, flooring and countertops if you are redesigning your bathroom.

• Heat your water efficiently by installing a tankless or solar heater to help save both energy and money.

• Use nontoxic shampoos and soaps that do not use artificial fragrances or mineral oil and use either minimal or biodegradable packaging.

• Go green with towels and linens made from materials such as organic cotton and bamboo that are fastgrowing, sustainable alternatives to conventional cotton.

• Avoid a shower curtain made with polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic. Instead, look for PVC-free plastic

Kids say some surprising things Submitted by Julie Hollar Children’s children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children. - Proverbs 17:6 It was Palm Sunday, and because of a sore throat, five-year-old Billy stayed home from Church with a sitter. When his family returned home, they were carrying several Palm Branches. Billy asked what they were for? His parents replied, “People held them over Jesus’ head as He walked by.”

“Wouldn’t you know it,” Billy fumed, “The one Sunday I don’t go to Church, HE shows up!” ISI

PAGE 24 IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT

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Five Simple Steps to Writing A Memoir

By Chérie Newman Have you ever wondered where the time went, what life is all about, or why you matter? If your answers are yes, then you are probably ready to write your memoirs.

I know, I know. You don’t think anyone will be interested in your stories. Wrong. You don’t know how to write. Yes, you do. And, you feel overwhelmed just thinking about the idea. That’s okay.

The old adage “Rome wasn’t built in a day” describes a writing project perfectly. Books come into being one word, one sentence, one page, and one chapter at a time. There is no other way.

The process of writing is like any project. To succeed, you have to break it down into small steps and then take action. You can start with one story – perhaps choose a disastrous family vacation, your most memorable Christmas, or the summer you spent backpacking through Europe before you were married. Then draw a line across a sheet of paper. On this line, write events that happened during that story, in chronological order - like a timeline in history class.

For example, your timeline from left to right might show the date you decided to go to Europe, how you paid for the trip, the three flights it took to get you from Billings to London, when you got lost, your first night at the hostel, and so on. Now underneath each event, write a short description (two days in France, biked barge canal path in Burgundy, a sidewalk café lunch, meeting Dave).

Then transfer each event and a short description to a separate page and add details (Dave fell into canal, we sat in park all afternoon… talking).

At this point, do not worry about making complete sentences or paragraphs. Just think about the event and make notes about the details.

To review, the steps are: 1. Pick a story and draw a timeline 2. Write the events of your story on the timeline 3. Write a short description under each event 4. Transfer each event and its description to its own page 5. Fill in details You will end up with one timeline page and several pages of writing, each describing an event that happened during your story. When you’ve finished writing out all the details, put all your event-pages in order, and, Viola! You have now completed your first draft of a chronological essay.

All you have to do now is polish your writing until it is a tight, coherent, engaging piece. That’s easy to say, but just keep working at it. You will be surprised at how quickly you improve. ISI

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IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 25

By Patricia M Johnson, Senior Wire When the children leave the nest and you decide to downsize to a smaller house or condominium, there is always the problem of storage space. You would think by this stage in life, we would have tossed everything that could be tossed. That is not always the case, so we are going to analyze storage needs to make the transition smoother.

Frustrations stem from inadequate storage space, and we do not want these pre-retirement or retirement years to be spent worrying about where to put everything. We should begin with you sorting out all you want to keep and what you want to give to charity or relatives. I usually say, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Do I want it? Do I need it? Can I live without it?â&#x20AC;?

Those three questions provide the answer. I use them when I go to buy new clothing or something for the house too. You would be surprised how easily it works. So letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s begin with ideas.

Storage walls are an attractive, integral part of the room. Open and closed units such as bookcases house items efficiently.

Window seats are units with a hinged top to reveal extra storage for out-of-season clothing, blankets, or toys and games for the grandchildren. They can be used in any room and may be painted or stained and topped by colorful seat cushions.

Have a narrow alcove? A tall, graceful chest tucks in nicely here. Stackable plastic or wood cubes provide many possibilities for storage and the arrangement is all your own.

Line your closet shelf and floor with stackables. Some come with slide-in drawers in wood, canvas, or wicker of contrasting or matching colors.

Build a combination storage center and work counter in your kitchen. All sides are open for housing appliances. Have an electrical outlet installed in the base. Install extra shelves in the kitchen cabinets measured for canned goods, one can size deep. It saves precious space!

That little space under the sink can be wasted. Swing-out storage units hold soap, scouring

pads, and scrubbers. A bin provides storage for paper or trash. Racks on the inside of the door will hold more items.

A guest room sofa can be installed above spacious storage drawers. Drawers of the coffee table can hold a guestâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s personal belongings.

Pull-out trays and runners can be installed in existing spacious cabinets. This eliminates reaching and groping into deep cabinets.

Consider storage under staircases. Unused space can be put to good use. Game tables and folding chairs can be stored in built-in cabinets here.

Drawers under beds can hold extra bedding.

A heavy chest will double as a cocktail table.

Consider too an old cedar chest. Coffee tables are unique today so make your own and keep storage in mind.

Bookshelves can be tucked into so many corners. Shelves in the kitchen keep cookbooks at hand. The laundry room or garage can house your gardening and do-it-yourself books.

Try framing a window with shelves of books â&#x20AC;&#x201C; perfect for a window seat.

Double rods in a closet double the closetâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hanging space. Hang suit jackets or blouses on one level, slacks on another. Leave one rod for dresses and coats. Build or buy shelves to section the closet for folded shirts, racks for ties, and sliding trays for jewelry and accessories.

Perhaps you now have your own sewing room or use it as a dual-purpose room. Floor to ceiling storage units can be made from simple boards cut to size. You can have all your materials, fabrics, threads, patterns, and trim in this ideal working space. Make extra shelving if you are into arts, crafts, and scrap booking projects.

Above all â&#x20AC;&#x201C; just plain enjoy the projects that will make life easier and more enjoyable for the years to come.

Patricia Johnson is a retired designer who helps seniors ease the chore on housing, design, gardening and real estate. She can be reached at pmjeditor@aol.com. ISI

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PAGE 26 IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT

APRIL/MAY 2009

Bill Scudder – Plans for Sacred Encounters

By Jack McNeel Much of the story of America’s westward expansion is the story of the confluence of native cultures with European religious influences. The confluence of Bill Scudder, restoration of the Mission at Cataldo, and a traveling historical exhibit will permanently enshrine this story of “Sacred Encounters” in a new museum at the Mission.

Like the Jesuits who came west, Bill came to Idaho from afar – moving frequently in an Air Force family, followed by an education in North Dakota in geography and geology, a stint in Vietnam, and then marriage to his childhood sweetheart.

With Debby, his new bride, they chose Idaho to seek employment. “We didn’t have connections with Idaho, but we liked what we’d heard.

We came and both of us got jobs,” Bill relates.

He started with the Idaho Parks Department in 1971 as a ranger at Three Island Crossing State Park near Glenn’s Ferry. A couple years later, he was promoted to assistant manager at Priest Lake. In 1976, Bill was assigned as manager of Old Mission State Park at Cataldo, which had opened in 1975.

Created by the Idaho Centennial Foundation and [Photo by the Idaho Legislature in con- Jackie McNeel] junction with Idaho’s Centennial and Bicentennial, the Idaho Heritage Trust designated the Mission at Cataldo, which included Idaho’s oldest standing building, for preservation efforts… and none too soon!

The Parish house and surrounding facilities were either in disrepair or not even in existence.

No water was available on the site. Parking areas needed to be developed for the visitors expected.

“There was nothing but a nice, pretty church on top of the hill,” Bill says.

In 1994, as fate would have it, Bill and his park ranger traveled to Bozeman, Montana to view the award winning exhibition “Sacred Encounters: Father De Smet & the Indians of the Rocky Mountain West” that told the story of the Coeur d’Alene people and their encounter with Jesuit missionaries – “The Blackrobes.”

The 8,000 square foot exhibit, which was put together by Washington State University along with the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture in Spokane, the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, and the Jesuits of the Missouri Province, traversed the country from 1993-1997, but was never exhibited in Idaho because no facility was large enough to handle Celebrating two years of advanced it. care in the Inland Northwest.

When Bill first saw the exhibit, he thought, “This is too neat just to e provide advanced be disassembled.” long-term acute care, “So, we started a including critical care project of getting it refor patients who require located to the Cataldo additional time to heal Mission permanently. from catastrophic injury or illness. We are proud to From an interpretive perWe believe, your recovery means be the newest addition to spective, it fit perfectly. more than just physical. the healthcare continuum It told the story of these in the Inland Northwest. two cultures.”

Call 208.262.2800 to schedule a tour, or visit us online at The non-profit AsNIACH.ernesthealth.com. sociation for Sacred EnWe welcome tours of the hospital every day of the week.

600 North Cecil Post Falls, Idaho 83854 counters was formed to ph: 208.262.2800 provide improvements fx: 208.262.2813 at the Old Mission State NIACH.ernesthealth.com Park and to create a 185220-0507 structure to replace the

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old visitor center with a new visitor center and a museum to house the Sacred Encounters exhibit.

The Coeur d’Alene Tribe bought the Sacred Encounters exhibit in 1998 and has stored it since in preparation for its exhibition.

“Finally, after all these years, we got the building. The exhibit itself, because of the time that has elapsed, needs to be redone. It had many audiovisual components and that technology is no longer used. It’s in the process of being reworked now.”

The new building will have 5,000 feet for the permanent Sacred Encounters exhibit and 3,000 feet for other park purposes.

It is all funded with nonprofit money. The Coeur d’Alene Tribe contributed over $1.5 million and other groups such as the Murdock Foundation, Northwest Foundation, and many local and regional groups have also contributed funds toward the final estimated $3.5 million cost.

Bill retired from the Parks Department last year but his work with Sacred Encounters continues where he still chairs the board of Directors.

“They won’t let me get out of that I guess,” he says with a laugh.

The exhibit will contain about 80% Coeur d’Alene tribal material, material from the Flathead Reservation, Jesuit material from Father De Smet, some from St. Louis, and even from Belgium where De Smet was born.

Bill explains that a lot of the story is audio-visual with prints and text panels. There will be seven rooms with each one telling a little different aspect of the story of these two cultures – a complex and occasionally contentious history.

“There are some very emotional aspects to the exhibit, like a period of time when the Catholic Church prohibited tribes from practicing their native religion, wearing native dress, or even speaking their own language. These were outlawed by the Church and persons were punished for doing those things. There’s also a part where the Catholic Church apologizes for those past problems,” Bill adds.

The original hope was to open the exhibit August 15, 2009 to coincide with the annual Indian Feast of the Assumption pilgrimage to the mission. Unfortunately, the state of the economy has changed plans.

The Idaho Department of Parks has reduced budgets drastically throughout the state. Several parks will likely be closed rather than reducing the quality of service at all parks. Which parks will be closed has not yet been determined by the Parks Board, so it is not known if Old Mission State Park will be one of those.

Either way, the new exhibit will not be open this summer. The Coeur d’Alene Tribe and the Sacred Encounters group are spearheading the new center and exhibit. New bids came in last fall at about $500,000 more than originally estimated, just for the exhibit. The Tribe is considering options, but no decision has been made. The earliest the exhibit might open would be in 2010.

Bill foresees the day when his role with this project will end. “I think it will be taken over by the Tribe and the State,” he says.

That certainly will not be the end of Bill’s involvement in community activities. “I’m also involved in this new National Heritage Area in the Silver Valley. It’s going to focus on the mining history of the area. I’m on the Board for that and it should be exciting.”

Bill Scudder was also the only field person

APRIL/MAY 2009

highlighted in a new book published by Idaho State Parks called “100 Years - Idaho and its Parks.”

“That was cool! That made me actually sound like a decent person,” he chuckles.

Perhaps a paragraph from that book sums him up. “Bill Scudder’s recipe for life has made for a

tasty career: Combine one part chance with two parts fate. Add consistently good timing, a beloved North Idaho landmark, a few colorful characters, thousands of visitors, more than a few accomplishments, and a pinch of luck. Bake for 36 years until retired. Enjoy.” ISI

Miner and Historian – John Amonson on John although he says he does not remember

By Jack McNeel Although books and a formal education are the listening very closely.

John graduated high school in 1963 and the lauded route to knowledge and wisdom, there is no substitute for real life experience. John Amonson is University of Idaho in 1968 with a business major. one of the Silver Valley’s most knowledgeable his- “Bluntly honest, I didn’t have a lot of interest in torians, he has a degree but not in history, and he business but thought it was the easiest course to graduate in,” he says has years of hands on laughing. During that experience in mining. time, he started spend“I’m a bush league ing summers working historian,” John says, underground at the and from listening to Sunshine Mine. “I’d dehim, it is easy to see veloped a preference for where he acquired that working with my hands. historical knowledge.

Mining fit in with that “Grandfather had a quite well. It was just carriage repair shop in a job but it gets in your South Dakota. He marblood,” he says. ried in the spring of 1889 Gypo mining proand they moved by train vided the opportunity to to the mining district of get some money ahead Burke, Idaho where he and that was his directook a job in the cartion for four or five years pentry shop at the Tiafter completing colger mine. That summer lege. This underground Spokane burned to the mining experience gave ground and he figured him the knowledge for he had more opportua variety of positions in nities as a carpenter later years. there so they moved Doors of opportunity to Spokane. Dad was seem always to open born there in 1891 and for John when the need later they moved back arises and such was to Burke where Dad the case when he quit went through the school [Photo by Jack McNeel] mining. He relates how system. He graduated in 1911 as the second boy in history to graduate he dressed in clean, but shabby work clothes one morning planning there.”

John’s dad was working as a meat cutter and to do some work. Inthen returned to school and started doing books stead he stopped at the for small mining companies. Payment was often employment office. As partially in the form of mining stock. John’s parents John walked by the minmet through the Scandinavian Fraternity where his ing school next door, dad was secretary. She was 21 when they married, a buddy called to him.

26 years younger than her husband. Seven years When the buddy heard later John was born, the third of four kids. “We lived that John was looking on South Hill in Wallace in a house built in 1905. for work he suggested John apply for an open That house is still there,” John relates.

John’s granddad’s younger brother started a teaching position. The mine that eventually became the Hercules Mine, employment office also one of the most famous of the mines in Burke needed a worker, so the Canyon. It was also the mine where Lana Turner’s outcome was two jobs offered and accepted, dad worked for awhile.

As John grew up, he was exposed to many while dressed rather stories of mining and earlier days, both from his dad roughly, on a day he and from the old timers who visited. His dad also really was not looking had mining stock and would visit those properties, very diligently for work!

“That sort of circumsometimes going underground. All this exposure to mines and history no doubt had a major impact stance has followed me

IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 27

PAGE 28 IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT

through life,” John says with a laugh.

John spent 22 years mining – half of it underground – and by 1986, he had decided he no longer wanted a job breaking rocks, so he took a job with the Sierra Mine Tour as leader of the mine tour guides.

“I liked working with people and telling stories,” he says. “The job involved driving trolley and managing the guides and sometimes doing tours myself.”

John also instructed a mining course taught through North Idaho College. This was in 1989 when mining was beginning to rebound and more people were needed in the field. This training took place at the Alice Mine in Mullan.

In 1990, John was hired as Executive Director of the Wallace District Mining Museum, a job he held until his retirement in August 2007. John’s historical knowledge and practical knowledge from working so many mining jobs over the years made him the perfect museum director. “I enjoyed helping people with genealogy questions regarding mining. People would often walk out with smiles, finding out much more than they expected.”

APRIL/MAY 2009

John has also dabbled in video work and put together a 20-minute video covering the history of the Silver Valley from the late 1800s until its last revision in 2005. It is still shown at the museum and tour busses were provided a copy so people from all over the country have seen it.

John is an outdoors type of person. When he retired, he had gone over 30 years without missing a full day for illness or unexcused absence.

“I’m usually outside working and if it’s not too windy I’ll be working with my shirt off. There wasn’t a single month during the last 14 or 15 years I haven’t worked for extended time without my shirt off. All the people who say you should bundle up and keep your feet dry – I look at that as an old wives’ tale.”

Retirement has not slowed John down. He says he’s hardly made a dent in all the projects he planned when he retired. Things like refurbishing a 1973 pickup he bought new, cleaning up a 20acre parcel near Osburn that may one day hold a new log house that his wife Linda envisions in their future, and some more travel. They have managed trips to the South Pacific, Hawaii, Europe,

and Egypt so far.

John is also an avid bicyclist. He tells of one trip, six days before he turned 62, when he left Mullan Pass very early in the morning, biked to Plummer, and then took Highway 95 south to the Lovell Valley Road and on to the Washington line.

Part of the last segment required pushing the bike as the highway was under construction and torn up. Then returning all that distance back to Mullan Pass. For those unfamiliar with the area, it’s a 175 mile roundtrip – and it isn’t all flat! “I did it without any solid food, just beverages,” he recalls. “I had my first meal of the day at 11 o’clock that night.’

And, John is still involved in mining history having served as vice president of the Mining Heritage Exhibition nearly since its inception. Just this February he was elected its new president.

“The job involves writing grants and things of that nature but much of it is on the ground moving pieces on the site of this outdoor display and making up interpretive language for displays,” he says.

You can bet that outdoor work of moving mining equipment will fit John Amonson to a tee. ISI

A Renaissance in Priest River: the Beardmore Block Rises Again

By Cate Huisman Among the followers of the famous exhortation to, “Go west, young man!” was Charles Beardmore, a 25-year-old Wisconsin man of remarkable entrepreneurial talent. After his westward journey brought him to Priest River, in 1900, Charles’s father added some advice that was far more specific, “Keep warm, put on good woolen underclothes, keep out of danger as much as possible, and if you buy property, keep it insured.

And be sure to get a clear title to it.”

Charles followed his father’s advice. Starting with a small timber claim, the young man went on to acquire the St. Elmo Hotel in 1902 (it is not recorded whether he kept it insured or got a clear title) and a stage line

to the vacation destination of Priest Lake two years later. Ten years after that, he traded the horse-drawn stage for a motorcoach, popularizing the route by shortening the tourists’ journey by several hours.

His focus, however, was on timber. Within a decade of his arrival, he was running numerous logging camps in the woods between the town and the lake, and in 1916, he bought the local lumber mill. When the U.S. entered World War I and demands for wood increased, Beardmore became prosperous along with the town. In the early part of the 20th century, he was Bonner County’s biggest employer.

To house his businesses in a manner appropriate to his success, Beardmore commissioned the premier northwest architecture firm of Whitehouse and Price to design a grand building to be erected at the corner of Main and High Streets. Construction began in 1922, and the building of brown brick with white terra cotta details became the town’s centerpiece. It was the largest structure in Bonner County at the time, and it cost Beardmore $80,000 to build it.

Street-level storefronts housed the Kaniksu Drug Company, the Peoples Market, and Beardmore’s company store. Upstairs there were offices, meeting rooms, and his grand corner office with its view of the river and growing town. According to a contemporary newspaper report, there were “housekeeping apartments, modern in every respect, including hot and cold water and electric ranges.” The meat market had an ice machine, a rarity when most markets still relied on ice harvested from local ponds in winter.

A grand opening on March 13, 1923, celebrated the new building, the 18th birthday of Charles’s daughter, Vivienne, and the return of his wife, Lucy Beardmore, from Boise, where she was the first woman to represent Bonner County in the state legislature. A week later, silent film star Nell Shipman premiered “The Grubstake” in the Rex Theater that filled one corner of the building. Shipman, the darling of the north, often passed through Priest River on her way to her remote film studio at Priest Lake.

Fast-forward a half-century. The St. Elmo Hotel is long gone, the Rex Theatre has been closed for 20 years, and Charles Beardmore, his fortunes dashed by the great depression, has himself been dead since 1935. Brian Youngberg, his great-grandson, spends summers at Priest Lake with his grandmother, Vivienne Beardmore McAlexander. He and his siblings play hide and seek among the antique barber chairs in the large empty spaces in the building that was once their great grandfather’s pride.

While he was growing up, the Beardmore Building “was mostly gutted,” recalls Runberg, who remembers water pouring down the back wall on one of his visits. Sold by the family in 1971, it was in receivership for much of the next 35 years. During that time, Runberg became a successful architect in Seattle, although he returned with his family each summer to Priest Lake, and still considered north Idaho his home. So perhaps it is not surprising that, in 2006, Runberg bought the rotting remains of the building.

The Beardmore Block is the only remainder of his great grandfather’s once-great business empire, Runberg says, “and it was nearly lost many times.”

Runberg has since created a rare combination, a building that is both on the National Register of Historic Places and certified to the LEED (Leadership in Environmental Energy and Design) Gold Standard by the U.S. Green Building Council.

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Although the original windows are still there, they have all been refurbished, and the old glass replaced with insulated glass. Energy-saving on-demand hot water heaters serve the faucets, and new reflective roofing materials help to reduce heat inside in the summer. Water from

the roof drains to a cistern in the basement, and this water is used to flush the toilets in the building, half of which are the originals that Charles Beardmore had installed in 1922.

The magnitude of this undertaking is all the more remarkable given the severe setback it suffered in September 2007, when a brakeless beer truck tumbled down the hill toward the Beardmore Block from the highway above. After staying upright against all odds as it rolled over a couple of three-foot retaining walls and narrowly missed a parked RV, the truck slammed into the central feed for the building’s electrical service, and then for good measure sheered off two of the pipes carrying water from the roof to the cistern.

No one was hurt, but the project was set back by months, and now there is a certain kind of beer that Runberg never wants to drink again. The hardest part of the repair was find-

North Idaho Millionaire’s Fairy Tale Turns Dark

By Bernice Karnop The names of Lewis and Clark are familiar all over the Northwest, but have you heard of F. Lewis Clark? He does not leave the same kind of mark as the explorers with the same names, but he made quite a splash in his day.

The summer home Clark built in 1912 on Hayden Lake in the Idaho Panhandle was the most expensive house in Idaho at that time. Its 15,000 square feet of space was big enough for more than a dozen ordinary homes to fit into and rattle around. Lewis and his wife Winifred spared no expense for this dream castle.

They imported crystal chandeliers from Czechoslovakia, hand painted wall paper from France, marble from Italy, and rugs from the Orient. They built seven bathrooms, nine fireplaces, a ballroom, billiard room, and a library. They brought slate from England for the roof. In addition to the house, they built a superintendent’s cottage, a gatekeeper’s cottage, and another three-room cottage, along with a plethora of other buildings such as a barn, garage, garden shed, icehouse, blacksmith shop, and woodshed. He even had tennis courts, a chicken run, and dove cote.

F. Lewis Clark’s story sounds like a fairy tale. He grew up in Maine, the son of a wellto-do businessman, who may or may not have named his son for the leaders of the Corps of Discovery. After graduating from Harvard, Lewis Clark traveled west, settling in Spokane in 1884.

He bought land there and, with F.E. Curtis, built the largest flour mill in the Northwest. C&C Mill produced 600 bushels of flour a day and even shipped it overseas to England and China.

After only six years he was ready to move on. He sold his interest for a reported $200,000 gain - much more than it sounds in our present inflated economy - and invested in real estate around the fledgling city of Spokane. According to Cort Conley in Idaho for the Curious, the land he bought in 1885 for $960 was worth a million by 1905. He continued making big money, investing in, among other things, mining interests in Idaho’s Silver Valley.

He and Winifred, whom he married in 1892, built a monstrous showpiece home in Spokane before they started their summer place on the shores of Hayden Lake.

In 1907, Clark took his custom built sailing yacht and a crew of 16 to England to compete in regattas. He won cups in every race he entered, and along with the prizes, he won the right to hobnob with royalty. The fairy tale continued with time spent with Kaiser Wil-

helm from Germany, Prince Henry from Prussia, and King Alfonso from Spain.

If fairy tales came true we’d end the story here with “and they lived happily ever after.”

It seldom works that way.

Lewis began having health problems. Like the kings and princes he met in Europe, he hired a private personal physician. The couple began spending winters in California.

On a stormy January evening in 1914, he took Winifred to the train station in Santa Barbara for a trip to San Francisco. Then he told his chauffeur he wanted to walk the mile back to his hotel.

He never made it. They found his hat on the beach near the city wharf. City officials searched the water for his body but no more sign of him surfaced.

In spite of a hefty reward, no credible information surfaced either. Winifred returned to Honeysuckle Lodge at Hayden Lake, where she kept lights burning in the windows for him.

Newspapers speculated that he took his own life but what really happened to him remains a mystery to this day.

The tragedy doesn’t end with his death. The Clark fortune disappeared. The Spokane mansion was sold, and the bank foreclosed on the villa in Hayden Lake. Winifred moved, first to an apartment in Spokane and then to Massachusetts to be near their only son. Two months after the move, she died.

The mansion was used by a number of groups but finally it was deserted, vandalized and left to nature’s ravages. It was scheduled to burn in a county fire department exercise in 1988.

But with the kiss of the proper prince, the

IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 29

ing a brick to fill the hole. To retain the historic certification, Runberg could not use new brick, and he scoured Priest River for matching brick of a comparable age. Ultimately failing, he ended up having to pirate some brick from the interior walls of the Rex Theatre.

Now, despite the woes of the national economy and continued closings of mills in Priest River, the Beardmore Block is filling with tenants again. An engineering firm and a financial services company have moved into some of the offices, and Noni, a wine bar, is a popular hotspot on weekends.

Green building is growing in popularity, too: “Everybody’s jumping on the bandwagon,” says Runberg, “doing it for commercial reasons now.

But for me it’s different. It’s the renaissance of the Beardmore name, with the building as its flagship.”

We could raise a glass at Noni to that. ISI

PAGE 30 IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT

Sleeping Beauty awakened. Current owner Monty Danner and his associates bought it in 1989.

He restored the massive home and opened F. Lewis Clark’s Honeysuckle House as the elegant Clark House Bed and Breakfast inn.

Today guests can stay in the Clark House and dream of the opulence and tragedy of the man behind the original structure. Clark House also offers elegant gourmet dinners, and a place for intimate weddings, business retreats, and similar events, by reservation only. ISI

APRIL/MAY 2009

Lois Miller - continued from front cover for a learning center. And to make matters worse, few improvements had been made to the building since PSNI moved there.

“It was like an old noisy barn, just one big room. Inside, it was cold and dreary. All the furnishings were hand-me-downs,” recalls Lois, who yearned to do more for PSNI than just buy dishes.

So she got in touch with Sullivan Home in Sandpoint to see about renovating the building. Sullivan Home then contacted Spokane television’s KXLY Extreme Team to ask if they might be interested in tackling PSNI for one of their famous makeovers. They were.

“In just 72 hours, they redid the entrance and office areas, bathrooms, and kitchen,” recounts Lois. “And they paid for it with local and Spokane businesses donating the labor, materials, and appliances.” The makeover included new paint, floor coverings, cabinets, refrigerator, dishwashers, and much more.

“It was thrilling, beyond our wildest dreams,” says Lois. “For us to have done what the Extreme Team accomplished in three days would have taken another 30 years.”

The success of the makeover and the positive press it generated galvanized Lois and the Sandpoint community to raise money for the next phase of the renovation - enlarging PSNI’s Work Services area with an addition on the back of the building.

“The addition provides space for the staff and employees as they do sub-contract work for businesses in the community,” explains Lois. “Our Work Services’ clients are paid according to their productivity as they learn various employment skills like product packaging and labeling.”

This phase also targeted the large open Life Skills area. The need here was for a more efficient and calm space so people could concentrate while learning to cook, launder clothes, manage money, use a telephone, and shop - things most people take for granted but that they need to be taught.

The transformation of the 2,000-square-foot room required, among other things, insulated dropped ceilings to reduce noise levels and better lighting.

Next, Pay It Forward focused on putting in new carpeting, repainting, and buying new furniture for Employment Services. This department places the disabled in jobs such as grocery baggers, janitors, and dishwashers.

As PSNI’s Volunteer Coordinator, Lois championed the restoration project and helped raise the necessary money. She campaigned to keep Sandpoint citizens informed and involved, wrote grants, and penned letters to the editor. One of her goals during this time was to raise $15,000 in four months to qualify for a matching donation from an anonymous benefactor. In her trademark style, Lois accomplished this through persistence and ingenuity.

“When we did the ‘Pennies for PSNI’ drive, we collected over $800 by placing large jars all over town. We also held a yard sale that raised over $3,000 in one day,” remembers Lois as she cites just a few of the community’s many other examples of generosity. “The Elks Club held a Casino Night and a church youth group put on a dinner-theatre event. Both donated their proceeds to us. An architect donated his time to reconfigure the building and one man gave over $700 in loose change he had collected.”

After two years, the remodel was finished and paid for, much to everyone’s delight. “This has meant a lot to the community and to the people who come here,” states Lois. “They followed the progress daily and beamed from ear to ear with every improvement.”

Although working with disabled people was a new experience for her some 41 years ago, Lois discovered she did not need special training to succeed at her job. “I told myself, ‘I’m a mother. I can do it because in lots of ways it’s like working with children.’ I related to them from the start and loved them. They are so open, eager, and receptive.”

To her surprise, she has found the developmentally disabled often go beyond what is expected of them when given the opportunity. “We set limits and low expectations, not they,” remarks Lois, who hopes to accomplish still more for PSNI. “We need printers, shredders, and copiers. And we need to find more employment for our clients. We can always use more work contracts,” she adds enthusiastically.

In recognition of her contributions, Lois has received not one but two awards. In July 2007, Panhandle State Bank chose her as their Community Star and gifted her $1,000 for the renovation project along with a cut-glass plaque. And this past January, The Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce honored her as its Citizen of the Year.

“Through her efforts,” the chamber said, “Lois has brought business and community together to improve the quality of life for our most vulnerable citizens.”

While grateful for the kudos received, Lois believes the honor belongs more to the people of Sandpoint than to her.

“This recognition would never have been possible had it not been for the organizations, businesses, churches, and individuals that gave of their time, efforts, and money,” she says. “People called and offered to help. Money poured in from various sources. The community got behind us 100 percent and the ‘ugly duckling’ of a building was turned into a ‘beautiful swan.’”

For more information, email psni@nctv.com, visit www.panhandlespecialneeds.com, or call 208-263-7022. ISI

APRIL/MAY 2009

IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 31

These Tips Can Help You Avoid Identity Theft Submitted by Jack Smith Everyone has heard horror stories about the fraud that is committed through the theft of name, address, Social Security number, and credit cards. Taking the following steps can reduce your risk of identity theft.

1. Do not sign the back of your credit cards. Instead, put “Photo ID Required.”

2. When you are writing checks to pay your credit card accounts, do not put the complete account number on the “For” line. Instead, just put the last four numbers. The credit card company knows the rest of the number, and no one who might be handling your check as it passes through all the check-processing channels will have access to it.

3. Put your work phone number on your checks instead of your home phone. If you have a P.O. Box use that instead of your street address. If you do not have a P.O. Box, use your work address. Never have your Social Security number printed on your checks. You can add it if it is necessary, but if you have it printed, anyone has access to it.

4. Copy the contents of your wallet on a photocopy machine. Do both sides of each license, credit card, etc. This way, if your wallet is lost or stolen, you will know what you had in your wallet and all of the account numbers and phone numbers to call to cancel. Keep the photocopy in a safe place. Also, carry a photocopy of your passport when you travel either here or abroad.

The following scenario is an example of what could happen when your wallet is lost or stolen. Within a week, the thieves could order an expensive monthly cell phone package, apply for a VISA credit card, have a credit line approved to buy a Dell computer, receive a PIN number from DMV to change driving record information online, and much more.

But here is some more critical information to limit the damage in case this happens to you or someone you know: 1. We have been told we should cancel our credit cards immediately.

But the key is having the toll-free numbers and your card numbers handy so you know whom to call. Keep those where you can find them.

2. File a police report immediately in the Panhandle State Bank…

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of all, call the three national credit-reporting organizations immediately to place a fraud alert on your name and call the Social Security fraud line number. The alert means any company that checks your credit knows your information was stolen, and they have to contact you by phone to authorize new credit.

In the scenario above, it is easy to see how the thieves would have been stopped in their tracks had calls been made to the credit reporting agencies.

If your wallet has been stolen or should you suspect a similar threat, here are the numbers you must contact immediately in addition to your credit card numbers: • Equifax: 1-800-525-6285 • Experian (formerly TRW): 1-888-397-3742 • Trans Union: 1-800-680 7289 • Social Security Administration (fraud line): 1-800-269-0271 ISI

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PAGE 32 IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT

APRIL/MAY 2009

It Is Tax Time and the Rules Do Not Get Any Easier

By Tait Trussell, Senior Wire Carl Shoup had the right idea.

Shoup was a prominent public finance economist who worked at the U.S. Treasury in the early days of Social Security. He was involved in discussions about whether or not Social Security benefits should be taxed.

It was decided that because the benefits would not amount to much money (this was 50 years ago), it was not worth the administrative hassle to tax them. Today benefits top $600 billion. Now, as you know, our benefits are subject to taxation.

Single beneficiaries making more than $25,000 and married beneficiaries with incomes of more than $32,000 have been taxed since 1983. The recession in 1981-82 shrank payroll tax revenues.

Also, outlays went up as older people who needed the money increasingly decided to apply for benefits early.

The Social Security Trust Fund tilted toward empty. So, a commission was formed, headed

by Fed Chairman Alan Greenspan, to seek a remedy.

Republicans in Congress wanted to cut the growth in benefits. Democrats leaned toward raising the payroll tax. The Greenspan Commission finally agreed to a combination of choices.

One was to levey an income tax on 50 percent of benefits above a certain amount. Another decision was to raise the age at which future beneficiaries could collect Social Security checks.

The extra money from taxation went into the Trust Fund, which currently is gradually being depleted.

President Clinton led Congress to an increase again in 1993 so that once the income of beneficiaries exceeded $34,000 for a single person and $44,000 for married couples, the tax jumped to 85 percent of benefits that now have to be included in taxable income.

Because the income thresholds were not adjusted for inflation or wage growth, more and more beneficiaries will be subject to income taxes and the average tax payment will go up in the future.

In the Social Security System, the employer pays half of the payroll tax. Employees pay the other half. But the employer’s half is

tax-deductible. The employee’s half is not. Is that fair? Maybe not.

Moreover, benefits are set by a formula more beneficial to those who earned lower wages during their working life. Is that fair? Maybe so.

As for retirement savings options, complexity is the case. There are 401ks, 403bs, IRAs, Roth IRAs, SEPs, etc. all with different regulations.

Whether it makes sense or not, many people have more taxes than necessary withheld from their income. They seem to like the discipline furnished by withholding, even though they earn nothing from the amount withheld.

Recent stock market losses are naturally of greater concern to seniors who are well off financially. The lower half of the aging population does not save as much for retirement. Some cannot. So they heavily rely on Social Security income.

“The median household over age 50 has 50 percent of retirement accounts invested in stock, but declines to 25 percent over the age of 70,” according to Rudolph Penner, writing in the Public Policy & Aging Report of the National Academy on an Aging Society.

In January, Congress okayed a temporary pension bailout suspending the requirement that seniors withdraw their mandatory minimum distribution from their IRA for 2009.

“Current estate tax law is most peculiar,” writes Penner. “By 2009 the estate tax exclusion had reached $3.5 million and the top tax rate was 45 percent. The tax is scheduled to disappear in 2010, but then resume in 2011 with an exclusion of $1 million and a top tax rate of 55 percent. Few believe this will happen, and there is likely to be a compromise before the end of 2009.”

The complexity of the Internal Revenue Code is such that it now takes 7.6 billion hours spent each year preparing Americans’ tax returns.

Pity the poor low-income worker who has to use a 56-page instruction manual to figure out how to get his so-called earned income tax break.

Tax complexities may be blamed for the fact that three of President Obama’s choices for his cabinet have run into tax troubles. Their failure to pay certain taxes, however, cannot be attributed entirely to the complications of the tax code.

Incredibly, Charlie Rangel, chair of the House Ways and Means Committee, which writes the tax laws, has tax problems, too. He admitted he failed to pay taxes owed in connection with rental property he owns.

The IRS, in its annual survey of taxpayers just found that nine out of 10 people say it is “not at all” acceptable to cheat on taxes. ISI

Going for a ride Submitted by Julie Hollar While I sat in the reception area of my doctor’s office, a woman rolled an elderly man in a wheelchair into the room. As she went to the receptionist’s desk, the man sat there, alone and silent.

Just as I was thinking I should make small talk with him, a little boy slipped off his mother’s lap and walked over to the wheelchair. Placing his hand on the man’s, he said, “I know how you feel. My mom makes me ride in the stroller too.” ISI

When I Get Older…

Submitted by Julie Hollar Out bicycling one day with my eight-year-old granddaughter, Carolyn, I got a little wistful.

“In 10 years,” I said, “you’ll want to be with your friends and you won’t want to go walking, biking, and swimming with me like you do now.”

Carolyn shrugged, “In 10 years, you’ll be too old to do all those things anyway.” ISI

APRIL/MAY 2009

Stop At The Snake Pit For Entertainment And History

By Jack McNeel The Snakepit (Enaville Resort) sits at the junction of the North and South Forks of the Coeur d’Alene River. Joe Peak and his wife Rose Mary have owned and operated it the past 31 years and their lives are as interwoven with the community as is the history of the Snakepit.

“My avocation has always been community,” Joe says during a conversation in the dusky confines of the Snakepit that illustrates his historical knowledge of the area.

“When we bought this place in 1978, you couldn’t serve liquor,” he recalls. “At that time everyone bootlegged if they didn’t have a liquor license.

The previous owner would be caught about once a year and she would go to Mexico for about 30 days during the shutdown. In the early 80s, we were caught. Then they changed the laws so rather than just being a misdemeanor, it was a felony. In 1984, I went on a big crusade to get the laws changed. Finally it got changed in 1990 to allow businesses like ours to offer liquor if we could show 75 years of continuous operation for overnight accommodations, beverages, and meals.”

Researching the history to verify its past use provided insight into the early years of the Snakepit. A family named Johnson had built here about 1880. “We don’t know exactly what form of business but assume it could have been a trading post of some sort being at the confluence of two rivers.

The Jesuits and the Mission were here in the 1840s and some trapping was going on. Gold was discovered upriver two years later. Steamboats came upstream from Coeur d’Alene to Kingston, then called Kings End, and then there was a narrow gauge railroad proceeding from there. Logs were coming down the river with log drives. It was an interesting place. Wild!”

By the early 1900s, it was the Clark Hotel, mainly a railroad layover with overnight accommodations. The combination of railroads and steamboats joining here created a very good business.

“On New Year’s Eve day in 1911 there was a fire of suspicious origins.

The place burned. We’re not sure how much burned but they didn’t lose a day of business because they set up tents to keep business going until it was rebuilt,” Joe explains. “The part of the building here now on the west of the fireplace dates to at least 1911. This side dates to the early 1960s but the flooring came out of a bar called the Bungalow dating to the early

IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 33

PAGE 34 IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT

1900s. A few years ago, a couple of old Finland ladies were here and said they danced on this floor in the early 1900s. They’d roller skate on it during the week and dance on the weekends,” he says with a laugh.

And were the rumors of prostitution true?

“I’m sure there were girls here at times during its history,” Joe relates. He tells of a woman visiting a few years ago, showing some friends around, and discussing what the building once looked like. Joe commented on how much she seemed to know about the building and asked her if she had worked here as a bartender or a cook. “She just put her hands together and looked upstairs,” Joe laughs. “I didn’t ask any more questions!”

The loggers and miners called the prostitutes “snakes.” Whether that is the source of the name “Snakepit” is not known. There are a couple of other possibilities. An Olivia de Havilland movie of the late 1930s was called The Snake Pit and people made some comparisons. A third possibility relates to real snakes. At that time, a slough was located behind the building. Folks getting off the trains would fill their canteens or mason jars from a spring nearby and would likely see snakes.

So one can choose whatever story he prefers.

Joe Peak was born and raised in Laramie, Wyoming. After graduation from Laramie High School, he enrolled at the University of Wyoming starting out in forestry.

“But after a semester I could see some holes in my academics,” he says smiling.

After that first year, his grades never dropped below a 3.0. He changed his major to outdoor recreation, which provided a good background in biology, fish and game work, and forestry.

After graduation in 1969, the draft board came calling.

Following completion of OCS training, he married Rose Mary Polema from the small Wyoming town of Carpenter.

An army transfer took them to Fort Richardson, Alaska from 1970 to 1974 where his respon-

APRIL/MAY 2009

sibilities covered several military bases working as an athletics director. He took a civil service job as a youth activities director for the next four years. By that time, the family had swollen to five

[Photo by Jack McNeel]

with two young boys and a daughter and Alaska seemed “a bit far away.”

Looking for places to relocate in Wyoming, Montana, or Idaho a friend located the Snakepit and said, “I think I’ve found the place.” Joe flew down in January 1978, put some money down, and fully came on board in May 1978.

“By fall I was involved in the youth basketball program coaching the first team from Pinehurst.

I and another man ran that program for 28 years.

The last couple of years I’ve stepped back a little

but still keep my fingers in it.”

“If it has to do with kids in the valley, I’ve probably been involved. I’ve been a substitute teacher. I was on the school board two terms.

I’ve helped as an official at local track meets and cross-country meets. I’ve been on the chain crew for football for about 20 years.”

Joe has always been active in sports since high school and military days. Biking and running have long been part of his life and in 1984, he became an advocate for the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes, 16 full years before it came to fruition.

“We pushed from the standpoint of an individual as well as a business owner. We met with legislators and others about a tourist train and a bike trail in the railroad right of way.”

The tourist train has not panned out but the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes, which passes in front of the Snakepit, has become an outstanding tourist attraction and source of enjoyment and exercise for residents as well as tourists.

“I started entering local races for running and then biking and started entering biathlon events.

I was in the Post Falls biathlon for 10 or 12 years and the St. Maries biathlon. We did the Coeur d’Alene triathlon as a team for years. I was the bicyclist. I just enjoy that.”

The kids are now grown and on their own, but the pride shines through when Joe talks of them.

The oldest is now a Catholic Priest, Father Jimmy.

He was ordained at the Old Mission at Cataldo, just a short bike ride from the Snakepit. He will be going back into the military this summer as a chaplain. Daughter Jacque and son Andy both live and work in Coeur d’Alene, still close to Mom and Dad. Anyone who has not visited the Enaville Resort (Snakepit) should correct that at the first opportunity. It is unique and something not to be missed. Joe and Rose Mary will most likely be there to welcome and help you feel at home.

And how does Joe sum it up? “We’re having fun here and having a good life.” ISI

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APRIL/MAY 2009

IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 35

Where Are They Now â&#x20AC;&#x201C; George Chakiris?

By Marshall J. Kaplan The 1961 classic film, West Side Story, is remembered as much for its music as it is for its stars. One in particular was actor George Chakiris, who played the role of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bernardoâ&#x20AC;? - leader of the Puerto Rican gang, the Sharks. For his role, he won a Best Supporting Actor Oscar. Where is he now? He is still singing and dancing on stages across the world.

The handsome dancer and actor was born on September 16, 1934 in Norwood, Ohio to Greek parents - not Latin, as one might think.

He began dancing at a young age, eventually heading out to Hollywood in 1951.

After arriving in Hollywood, the seventeenyear-old Chakiris found his talent getting him jobs in musical films - always in the chorus. For the next ten years, George danced in the background of films such as The Country Girl (1954 with Grace Kelly and Bing Crosby), Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s No Business Like Show Business (1954), White Christmas (1954 with Rosemary Clooney and Bing Crosby), and The Girl Rush (1955 with Rosalind Russell).

Discouraged with never achieving fame, George moved to England where he was spotted by choreographer Jerome Robbins who gave him a supporting role in the London production of West Side Story. When the play was to be made into a film, George was given the Bernardo role.

With his tough, suave looks and rhythmic, limber dancing, George stood out and, along with the filmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s success, finally became an overnight sensation. He cherishes the Academy Award that he won for his role.

After West Side Story, George graduated to dramatic film roles, usually playing another version of Bernardo. Film highlights include Dia-

mond Head (1963) and Kings of the Sun (1963, with Yul Brynner). Again, George headed out to Europe and for the next ten years, continued to make films, however all the films (with the exception of 1966â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Is Paris Burning?), did not fair well at the box office.

George returned to Los Angeles and began appearing in numerous made-for-TV movies.

Although he appeared for a year in 1985 in a recurring role on Dallas, and a few guest roles on such shows as Murder, She Wrote, he was virtually forgotten by motion picture fans.

For the past twenty years, George has maintained a residence in Los Angeles. He continued to make television appearances as a supporting actor, and returned to the stage as more of a headliner all until the mid 1990s when he decided to retire. He currently spends his time making and selling silver jewelry â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a long time hobby of his. ISI

VISIT THE IDAHO BOTANICAL GARDEN AS IT

Excellent Entertainment at the Utah Festival Opera It is summertime in Logan, Utah, and with it comes the tradition of the Utah Festival Opera July 8 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; August 8, 2009. Each season people travel from all over the world (literally) to indulge in the grandeur and charm of the Festival where they can enjoy world-class productions.

But wait! That is not all. In 5 weeks there are over 100 events taking place. New this year is the International Operatic Competition and a Fine Arts Exhibition and Benefit featuring world-renowned artist Kent Wallis.

What a great place to meet new and interesting people! In 2008, we had visitors from 41 different states and 8 different countries. And do not forget our artists. Our professional singers, orchestra, and technical staff have performed in some of the greatest opera houses in the world. There truly is never a dull moment at Utah Festival Opera where you can see: â&#x20AC;˘ The Mikado â&#x20AC;&#x201C; starring Michael Ballam â&#x20AC;˘ Carmen â&#x20AC;&#x201C; starring Audrey Babcock â&#x20AC;˘ Camelot â&#x20AC;&#x201C; starring Vanessa Ballam â&#x20AC;˘ Cavalleria Rusticana & I Pagliacci â&#x20AC;˘ An Evening of Rodgers & Hammerstein â&#x20AC;˘ Musica Magnifica â&#x20AC;˘ Carnevale Operafesta â&#x20AC;˘ International Operatic Competition For tickets and information visit us at www. ufoc.org or call us at 800-262-0074. Also, please see our ad on page 37 of this publication. ISI

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PAGE 36 IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT

APRIL/MAY 2009

Don’t Miss the National Folk Festival in Butte, America

By Connie Daugherty It is summer fun at its best. Three days of non-stop music, arts and crafts, and food galore. And admission to all events is free! The 71st National Folk Festival returns to Butte, July 10–12, 2009. This traveling festival got its start in 1934 during the great depression. It was a way to come together and celebrate the music that is uniquely American. Folk music that immigrants brought with them and adapted to their new home.

The festival moves to a different place every three years and this threeyear run in Butte is only the second time the festival has been west of the Mississippi. Each year is different featuring different musicians and a unique theme.

I went last year - all three days and nights - and loved every minute of it. It’s exciting, invigorating, and just plain old-fashioned family fun. The only disappointing part was that I didn’t get to see everything.

What I did see was an acre of lawn covered with chairs and blankets.

Babies in strollers, teenagers with cell phones, and grandparents with canes all laughing, singing, and dancing together. Friends and strangers greeting each other. The smell of barbeque and hot dogs and stir-fry was everywhere. And completing it all was the music - music, music, and more music!

With seven stages hosting up to 250 performers there is definitely something for everyone. The stages are situated throughout historic uptown Butte and many of the streets are closed to through traffic, which in itself helps to set the atmosphere. The main stage is set up under the head frame of the Original Mine and must be experienced to truly be appreciated. The Park Street stage includes a plank dance floor. A shuttle operates from downtown parking locations and hotels as well as between stages for those who would rather ride than walk. Music traditions include Celtic, Cajun, country, Acadian, rockabilly, bluegrass, blues, mariachi, polka, western, and African American gospel.

There is a family activity area where the children can play instruments and learn arts and crafts. There is also a market place for traditional arts and crafts and a separate First People’s Marketplace that showcases Native American crafts.

This year’s theme is the Culture of the Horse in Montana and the American West. There will be a horse parade and a rodeo in addition to all the other activities. While there are several corporate sponsors and individual donors, the work of organizing and putting on the festival is done mostly by volunteers. Admission to all events is free, but that does not mean there are no costs involved. The main expense is the cost of bringing musicians to Montana from all over the country.

Last year approximately 75,000 people attended the three-day event and organizers expect even more this year. Hotels in Butte and as far away as Dillon were full for all three days. Several people who attended last year made reservations and plans to come back before they even left town. This year promises to be even bigger and better so come early; stay late; enjoy!

For additional information visit http://www.nationalfolkfestival.com.

ISI

Alberta’s Dinosaur Provincial Park

By Jack McNeel A visit to Alberta’s badlands is like being dropped into another world - a world of hoodoos and amazing sandstone coulees and buttes where shadows cast continually changing images on their weathered surfaces. It is a land that was once covered by a huge inland sea. About 70 million years ago, large numbers of dinosaurs roamed the semi-tropical forest that followed the sea, living their lives as wildlife does today, some hunting, others being hunted.

A small percentage of those creatures became fossilized and their remains can be found in amazing numbers in Dinosaur Provincial Park.

Canada has 13 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and Dinosaur Provincial Park is one of five located in Alberta near Brooks, about 160 miles north of the border crossing at Sweet Grass. It is well worth the visit!

As Donna Martin, the Coordinator of the Visitor Center explained, “There are three reasons Dinosaur Provincial Park was selected as a World Heritage Site. We protect a very important habitat in the cottonwood forests by the river, an endangered habitat in Alberta. We are the largest expanse of badlands in Canada. And, we have extensive dinosaur fossils.

“We have about 40 species of dinosaurs and over 500 skeletons have been taken out,” Donna added. “It’s one of the richest sites in the world.

Paleontologists will tell you it’s a very, very diverse site.”

There is an attractive exhibit area in the Visitor Center building, which

APRIL/MAY 2009

won a Canadian award for energy and environ- he commented. “A lot lived here and a lot migrated mental design after it was remodeled in 2005. through here. It was also a good environment to be The floor mat is recycled car tires, sound panels in preserved because there was a lot of water flowing the theater are from recycled pop bottles, and all and was a wet, muddy, sandy environment where exterior materials were from nearby locations. The animals had a chance to become fossils.” cooling system is particularly interesting. A small We made our first stop and Brad said to look pump takes water from the basement to evapora- for fossils. It did not take long. He explained the tion panels in the top of the building. Air is cooled badlands are eroding about 4 mm a year so that by the evaporating water and drops down and out new fossils are revealed each year. “These layers through doors to cool the visitor center. revealing dinosaurs go far back into the prairies There is a campso even if this hill here ground along Little Sand disappears, the edges Hill Creek, which runs of the valleys will erode through the Park, and back and we’re going to a three-kilometer public find more.” loop road, visitors can “We look for these artravel by car. You may eas with nice sandstone. hike within that loop, When we find fossils we but you may not remove look for channels where fossils. Conservation ofwater has flowed and we ficers enforce that refollow them up, hoping quirement, since the park to find articulated fossils is a protected area with still attached to bones scientific research conunder the surface.” ducted by paleontologists “Duck billed dinofrom around the world. saurs were the cattle of A guide-accompanied the Cretaceous, what hiking tour is available the carnivores were eatthrough the natural area. ing. There were massive Bus tours are also very herds of these animals, popular, with as many as by far the largest percent six/day available. of what is found.”

Visitors hail from Many of the specmany places. Brad Tuckimens removed from er, Heritage Appreciation the Park are sent to the Program Coordinator, Royal Tyrrell Museum in explained, “Fifty percent Drummond and are on [Photo by Jack McNeel] of our visitation is from exhibit there. outside Alberta which is quite unusual. Because Numerous stops and dozens of photographs we’re a UNESCO site and because of the pale- later it was time to quit. It was not nearly enough ontology, we tend to get a slightly more educated time to photograph all of the amazing sights nor visitor as well.” to look for and learn more of the fossil history of Visitors do need to book ahead for campground Dinosaur Provincial Park. But, it was an exciting sites and bus or hiking tours. For information, visit start. www.tprc.alberta.ca/parks/dinosaur.

As a bonus, there is a nature trail leading Tucker explained that with rangeland all through the cottonwoods and along the Red River. around, wildlife is abundant in the badlands. “It’s It is a very different environment from that of the quite a haven for wildlife including scorpions, badlands, yet only minutes away. The birder, or pronghorns, deer, porcupines, coyotes, badgers, those wanting to take a break from the sandstone weasels, ground squirrels, and three snakes - rat- and sun in the badlands, will find this an attractive tler, bull snake, and garter snake. The cottonwood alternative. areas are used by 165 species of birds.”

It is one more place your camera will love and Tucker noted we were carrying cameras and part of the reason this park is on UNESCO’S World said, “We’re going to see some beautiful hoodoo Heritage Site list. ISI formations your cameras will love.” How right he was. Every bend in the road brought new and interesting rock formations. A photographer could spend a lifetime within the park’s 80 square kilometers and still not capture all the incredible formations and ever-changing light conditions.

Donna Martin had said, “You’ll step on bone wherever you are.” And while that might have been somewhat overstated, we certainly found fossilized bone throughout our trip with Brad Tucker.

“We have the highest concentration of late Cretaceous period dinosaurs of anyplace in the world,”

IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 37

PAGE 38 IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT

APRIL/MAY 2009

Black Hills and Deadwood, South Dakota, once the wickedest town in the west, still know how to attract a crowd

By Kim Thielman-Ibes The year was 1876 and Wild Bill Hickok had recently arrived in the wickedest town known in the west, Deadwood, South Dakota. He frequented Saloon #10 and one unfortunate evening he uncharacteristically sat to play poker with his back to the door as Charlie Rich, a fellow card player, had taken his favored position in the corner. Unbeknownst to Wild Bill, Jack McCall sat brooding at the bar over his previous night’s loss to Hickok. Moments later, this buffalo hunter and all-round miscreant sauntered up to Hickok, put his double-action .45 caliber revolver in the back of Wild Bill’s head and shouted, “Take that.” McCall then pulled the trigger. Holding a hand of Aces and Eights, Wild Bill fell dead to the floor.

Deadwood has come a long way since its days of complete lawlessness although the remnants of its Wild West history are intact. Designated in 1961 as a historic preservation project, it has since become the largest such restoration project of its kind in the country. Today’s visitors will find the historic, cobblestone streets and buildings of Main and Sherman look very much the same as they did in the 1890s.

Built in extreme isolation along the bottom of Deadwood Gulch (so named for the many dead trees found here) Deadwood grew to be the largest city in South Dakota, swelling to more than 25,000 inhabitants during its heyday of the gold mining boom. Today the population hovers around 1,400, though it seasonally brings in thousands to partake in its legend, its legalized limited wage gambling, and its four-seasons of outdoor adventures - none of which involves a threat to your safety unlike those faced by earlier travelers passing through these parts.

Saloon #10 remains open and thriving, a reenactment of Wild Bill Hickok’s shooting occurs several nights a week, and poker at the saloon still draws a crowd. Even if you do not gamble, this original saloon is worth a visit as it also displays more than 1,000 artifacts from the 1890s.

Saloon #10 is one of Deadwood’s over 80 gaming establishments, most of them historic, in addition to more than 35 restaurants. Kevin Costner’s Midnight Star, a casino and entertainment establishment, may not be original to the 1890s but it is certainly a star attraction. Built with a nod to Deadwood’s illustrious past, given its etched glass, hand-rubbed wood, and turn of the century grandeur, it also offers progressive jackpot machines and a 10-foot Pharaoh’s Gold machine featuring a jackpot worth $50,000. Costner also displays costumes from his long and varied movie career including those from the movies Open Range, Silverado, and Wyatt Earp.

The Adams Museum opened its doors in the 1930s and is not only the oldest museum in the Black Hills; it remains one of its top three attractions.

True West Magazine named it one of the top 10 western history museums of 2008. The museum is located in the restored Adams House, a Victorian Queen Ann style mansion built in 1892. Most of the mansion’s original furnishings are complete and today, in addition to Deadwood’s wild-west history; it houses a collection of old-west guns and a Wild Bill and folk art collection.

The High Plains Western Heritage Center, located just a few short miles away in Spearfish, is also worthy of a visit. This 40-acre site houses 17,000 feet of western and Native American artifacts and art. The center honors pioneers of the old west encompassing the five-state region of Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, and Nebraska.

If you love cars and movies, you might also want to plan to visit Nelson’s Garage and Car Museum. Here you will find Magnum PI’s Ferrari, James Bond’s Aston Martin, as well as Herbie the Love Bug among others.

The Black Hills that surround Deadwood have been described as an island of trees in a sea of grass. Outdoor recreation is plentiful with 110 miles of groomed snowmobile trails in the winter that become biking trails in summer. These trails begin in town and provide outdoor enthusiasts with easy access for an early morning or afternoon romp on a snowmobile, by snowshoe and cross-country skis, or by bike and foot in summer.

There is so much to do and see in the Black Hills and Deadwood, that there is no choice except to plan a visit for family and friends. For more information, visit www.deadwood.org or www.theblackhills.com. ISI

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IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 39

Leaving a Lasting Legacy

By Holly Endersby Born in 1938, Laird Noh spent most of his young life on the family sheep ranch near Twin Falls enjoying a lifestyle many kids today can no longer experience. And despite extensive schooling, travel across the nation and a life involved with politics and conservation, he continues that deep bond with the working lands of Idaho from his home in Kimberly. In fact, it was this rural background that proved so important to the work he has done for Idaho as a state senator for twenty-four years, as a volunteer for state and national livestock groups, and as a champion of conservation in his eighteen year stint as a trustee for the Idaho chapter of The Nature Conservancy.

“Originally my Dad and his brother ran a combined sheep and cattle operation but shortly after I was born, they decided to split the family ranching business. Since my Dad liked the sheep end of ranching and his brother liked cattle that worked well for them both.”

Laird credits his life in the outdoors for bringing added meaning to both his legislative and volunteer work.

“Growing up on a ranch I was out on the landscape almost every day,” he recalls. “We ran sheep on the desert and low foothills during the spring, fall, and winter then brought the sheep to the mountains every summer for grazing. In fact, from the time I was four until I was eighteen years old, I spent every summer in the mountains. My father and the herders took care of the sheep while Mother looked after the children who did all the things kids do while living every day in the mountains, including learning to use an axe to chop firewood when old enough.”

Laird says when you spend that much time in nature you cannot help noticing things. And, the more time you spend in the natural world, the more you learn.

“I discovered early on by watching living things that there is great complexity in the natural landscape.”

It was his background in livestock and his interest in the outdoors that lead Laird to a combined degree in business and animal husbandry from the University of Idaho. Following that, this country boy found himself in Chicago for a graduate degree in business.

“When I was there, the faculty was amazing,” he relates. “There were four winners of the Noble Laureates Prize in the Business School, and two faculty members would become U.S. Secretary of State and U.S. Secretary of Labor. It was a wonderful experience to combine that degree of expertise with my rural background.”

After graduate school, Laird returned to Idaho where he taught basic economics classes at then Boise Junior College in 1962-63. He also married

his wife, Kathleen, who is now the Superintendent for the Kimberly School District. After their marriage, Laird returned to running the sheep operation full time.

“Dad wanted to retire so it was a good time for me to take over,” he explains.

[Photo by Holly Endersby]

In 1991, Laird was invited to serve his first nine-year term as a trustee for the Idaho Chapter of The Nature Conservancy.

“The quality of The Nature Conservancy, their business-like approach, and science-based assessments and plans are what impressed me and allowed me to become a part of that organization,” Laird recalls. “I could see they were making a difference for the better for both the general Idaho public and the ranching industry.”

“I’ve always been interested in pursuing the wily trout,” he says with a chuckle, “so I wanted to be sure we protected the wonderful fisheries in our state.”

Working with the private landholders in the Box Canyon area in particular, the Conservancy protected the land and obtained a portion of the water rights to ensure water from one of the last and largest naturally flowing springs will continue to help recharge the Snake River.

“This area is prime trout habitat,” Laird shares, “but the water is also needed for the working landscape as well. With the careful work of the Conservancy, both these needs are being met.

The Conservancy deeded this land to the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation, along with a million dollar endowment to pay for management through the years. And the water rights that came with this package now belong to the state of Idaho.”

Another Conservancy project Laird is proud to have been a part of is the protection and preservation of the Hemingway House in Ketchum. Named for famed writer Ernest Hemingway who loved this area of Idaho, especially the trout waters, the home is used to house visiting writers and hold special meetings and events of the chapter while

When Laird returned to ranching, he also got involved at the state and national levels in sheep industry policy issues.

“At the time, coyote management was an even hotter topic than wolf management is today,” he recalls.

In his capacity as a representative of the ranching community, Laird spent a lot of time in Washington D.C. working on natural resource policy issues.

“It was a good experience that made me better prepared for work as an Idaho State Senator.”

During his service in the state senate from 1980 to 2004, Laird chaired the Senate Resource and Environment Committee for twentyPERSONALIZED two years. And it was ASSISTED LIVING his unique combination MOM ALWAYS TOOK SUCH GOOD CARE OF ME. of experience in a rural lifestyle, a quality educaNOW I CAN TAKE EVEN BETTER CARE OF HER. tion, and his love of the outdoors that made him “When I was a child, Mom always looked out for me and saw that all so effective in his tenure my needs were met. Now it’s my turn and I’ve found an even better way as a state senator. to look out for her.”

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PAGE 40 IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT

honoring the lasting legacy of Hemingway.

In addition to his Conservancy work, since Laird’s retirement from the Senate, he is helping Idaho in other ways as well. He participates in the oversight committee for part of the National Science Foundation grants, in particular those designed to help states with smaller populations increase their capacity for work in math, science, and engineering.

Laird explains. “This year Idaho has captured $15 million for our research universities and has been awarded a total of $250 million since the grants began.”

He points to the new, sophisticated Hagerman Aquaculture Lab as a project that has benefited from the National Science Foundation grant funding.

“There are twenty full-time scientists there now, only two of which are funded by the state of Idaho. They are doing extensive research into fisheries and aquaculture, both important to our

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state.”

So what does the future hold as Laird’s tenure with the Conservancy ends and his senate years are behind him?

“Well, I have about fifty boxes of files in the basement that I am supposed to organize for the Special Collections Library at Boise State,” he says with a laugh.

But, he says, his ties to the ranching life are

still strong. “I’m now chief flunky for my son who has taken over the sheep ranch,” he explains.

Laird has lived a life of service combined with working on the land and he feels he has made his mark on the state he loves so much.

“In your brief moment on this earth, it is especially gratifying to accomplish something of permanence, and that’s what you can do working in politics and conservation.” ISI

Albion Normal School campus still captivates visitors resident historian among local residents and

By Dianna Troyer No matter how many times Verlene Powell was alumni, because she has written so much about the asked to explain what a “normal school” is, she school and the town, including a famous historic never lost her patience. She was glad the ques- murder trial. Several years ago, Verlene wrote a tion gave her the opportunity to share her passion 250-page book, “A History of Albion Pioneers,” that for the history of a former teacher’s college and of people refer to when doing research on family or Albion, a small ranching town in southern Idaho. Albion history.

“People still call and write Curious passersby often to me with questions about the read the sign for the Albion State school, early Albion, or their Normal School at the captivating ancestors, and I’m glad to help campus on the edge of town them,” says Verlene. “I’ve met and could not help but stop at so many alumni who come the museum on campus for an back to visit, and I enjoy talking explanation. to them about their experiences A century ago, a “normal here as students. I’m finishing a school” was simply a name for a docu-drama with pictures about teacher’s college, explains Verthe college that can be read or lene, who volunteered as curator dramatized on stage, similar to at the Albion Historical Museum a reader’s theatre with music. from 1997 until recently. She I’ve mixed facts with humor and stepped down to devote more mystery to keep the audience time to establishing an Albion interested.”

Pioneer Museum downtown to Verlene says she has been showcase her once bustling glad, too, to share her knowltown’s early history.

Nationwide in the late 1800s, [Photo by Dianna Troyer] edge with the school’s new owners. In 2007, the 35-acre normal schools were established with federal land grants and funded through state property and its buildings were sold at an auction legislatures, explains Verlene, who was always to Troy and Heather Mortensen of Boise, who repleased that visitors were interested in the tree- named the school the Campus Grove at Albion and lined campus’ half dozen stately, multi-story red turned it into a retreat center. Heather says they brick buildings that hint of a grandeur nearly a cen- have appreciated Verlene’s historical expertise.

“As new owners of the Albion Normal School, tury ago. They still stand ramrod straight and seem as lasting as the memory Verlene has kindly taken us under her wing in sharing her knowledge, insight, and ideas to help us of a favorite teacher.

“The museum and the develop our business,” Heather says. “We’ve been campus are so important very grateful for Verlene’s help and support.”

The Mortensens renovated Miller Hall, an to the community, and alumni frequently return 8,000-square-foot men’s dormitory built in 1901, to visit,” says Verlene, which stands next to the museum. The hall is who compiled a 49-page rented year-round for family reunions, weddings, booklet and several pam- and meetings and has 15 bedrooms with sleeping phlets about the school’s accommodations for 65, a large kitchen, several history. “Well respected bathrooms, and a large common area.

Like others, the Mortensens were captivated educators graduated from here including Terrel Bell, with the normal school.

“My husband read a story about the auction Secretary of Education.

Without the college, he in a newspaper and was drawn to the campus,” wouldn’t have received Heather says. “He always wanted to do something like this.” his start.”

Verlene says she’s grateful the Mortensens Although she no longer greets visitors from have brought the campus back to life. Between behind a counter at the 1893 and 1951, the school was a vibrant and museum, Verlene is still thriving institution, where 6,460 students earned recognized as Albion’s teaching diplomas. (Continued on page 42)

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Albion Normal School - continued from page 40 Eventually, normal schools were closed and transferred to universities. The school’s closure devastated Albion residents, students, staff, and alumni.

“It was like someone took away your second home,” says Verlene, whose mother and aunts graduated from the school. Her husband Kay had helped his dad Parley Powell, who was head custodian on campus for 30 years.

The buildings stood empty for seven years, and then were leased to the Magic Valley Christian College from 1958 to 1969. In 1970, the Idaho Land Board deeded the land and buildings to the town of Albion, which did not have the budget to maintain the campus. Windows were boarded up, and vandals occasionally damaged the buildings.

In 1993, Albion residents wanted a repository to preserve their local history, so they restored the first building constructed on the campus and

turned it into a museum. That stone, two-story building was built by local residents in 1893. The first year it opened, a Methodist minister taught 24 students.

The museum’s first floor is devoted to the normal school. Terrel H. Bell, a 1946 graduate who served as U.S. Secretary of Education from 1981 to 1985, fondly recalled the impact the school had on his life.

“Without Albion’s $11.50 per term bargainbasement tuition, I would have missed the marvelous world of books, libraries, intellectual excitement, and all that is learning beyond high school,” Bell wrote. “This little school had high standards, an atmosphere of creative tension, and a remarkably able faculty. It provided a passageway to shaping my values and raising my self-esteem.”

The museum’s second floor focuses on Albion, a once bustling county seat where one of Idaho’s most famous murder trials took place. In 1896, J.L. “Diamond Field Jack” Davis was accused of fatally shooting two sheepherders. He was tried, convicted, and spent five years in the Cassia County Jail and one year in the Idaho State Penitentiary. He was granted five stays of execution

and twice narrowly avoided hanging. Eventually two cattlemen confessed to the killings, and Jack was pardoned in 1902.

Relying on her research, Verlene wrote a play about “Diamond Field Jack” that was performed on the campus yearly from 1985 to 1989 and has been performed several times downtown during summer celebrations.

“I love doing historical detective work,” says Verlene, who has conducted her research at the State Historical Library, Idaho State University Archives, and public libraries.

Whenever the Mortensens have a question about their historic property, they know they can turn to Verlene for answers. The school’s history is described in more detail at the Mortensens’ website at www.albioncampusgrove.com.

Next, the Mortensens plan to remodel the Axline Gym for a conference center and hope eventually to open an outdoor science school on campus, too.

The museum is open from May 24 to September 15 on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. or by appointment by calling 208-673-6665. Verlene may be contacted at 208-673-6213. ISI

Guru of hang gliding calls Idaho home

By Dianna Troyer To Frank Gillette, the air has always felt more like home than the ground.

To hang gliders and paragliders throughout the Northwest, the retired 81-year-old farmer who lives near Declo in southern Idaho is Idaho’s guru of hang gliding and paragliding.

During 35 years of flying, Frank held the hang gliding distance record for 12 years after he flew 162 miles from central Idaho to Anaconda, Montana.

He also has served as a regional director for the U.S. Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association for several years and has taught dozens of students.

Boise resident and President of the U.S. Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association, Lisa Tate says, “He’s a legend in our sport, the guru of flying.

Pilots strive to be like him, because he has an inherent knowledge of flight.

He doesn’t let anything stop him and doesn’t let age slow him down.”

For many summers, Frank beat much younger pilots who competed in hang gliding and paragliding championships at King Mountain east of Moore in central Idaho.

“We have top pilots in the world, young guys on a competition circuit, who fly there, and Frank would routinely knock their socks off,” Lisa says.

“He’s amazing. He’s a great pilot, and a great guy.”

Although a flying accident near his home in 2007 has grounded Frank from taking flight in a paraglider or hang glider, he still pilots his ultralight plane and plans to teach paragliding again.

“I have to be a little more careful these days,” says Frank, who had his hip replaced after a rough landing. “It’s been a slow healing process and I’m still recovering. I still have my advanced instructor rating, and a couple of guys want me to teach them to paraglide.”

Frank does not have to walk far to his flying classroom. It’s a 500-foot-tall hill behind his home.

He takes his most recent injury uncharacteristically seriously. Previously, when he suffered injuries, he shook them off and once even flew with his broken foot in a cast.

“The doctor told me to keep it elevated, so I

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did - at several thousand feet,” he says, laughing. “The landings were a little tricky.”

Although Frank has stopped paragliding and hang gliding, he is not grounded.

“I still fly my ultralight, which I keep at home,” he says.

Frank, a man of average height and weight, realized he had an above average desire to be airborne after he started hang gliding in 1972. A friend introduced him to the pastime, and soon his newfound passion for flying consumed most of his time. In 1989, he started paragliding, too.

As an instructor, Frank shared his insight and expertise from count[Photo by Dianna Troyer] less flights - some unforgettably exhilarating, others harrowing and one that was record setting.

On a summer day in 1992, at age 64, Frank launched his hang glider from King Mountain, thinking it would be a routine instead of record-setting flight. After several hours, he lost contact with his chase car. He realized he was somewhere over the Continental Divide between Idaho and Montana, and his altimeter told him he was cruising along at 17,000 feet.

“Every 20 minutes, I’d take a sniff from my supplemental oxygen,” he says. “I didn’t know what to do.” But really, he knew exactly what to do.

“I knew I’d go as far as I could. I’d found a cloud street,” he says, referring to a series of thermals, or hot air, that lifted and carried him along.

After six-and-a-half hours, he ran out of lift and landed near Anaconda, Mont., 162 miles from where he had started. Frank’s record held until 2004.

“Someone else broke it by about 15 miles,” he says.

Frank says he owes much of that epic flight to King Mountain’s powerful thermals. Unusual meteorology and geology have combined to make the mountain a world class flying site, ranked among the top five places in the nation for paragliding and hang gliding. Hot air from the Snake River plains flows through two mountain ranges that rise up to 12,000 feet on either side of the 10- to 15-mile wide Lost River Valley, creating an ideal flying corridor.

During his flying heyday, Frank alternated his time between helping his sons farm near Declo and living in a trailer at the base of King Mountain to teach flying three days a week. He taught students to read cloud patterns, understand how weather affects them and how to control their craft.

“It’s a safe sport when done properly,” he says.

He admits he gets frustrated with himself about his most recent accident, yet it is one more teaching experience to share with his future students.

“It was something that shouldn’t have happened. I was too far back, tried to top land and rotored straight down and jammed my leg. Now I have a new hip.”

Frank and his wife Lorna spend winters in Quartzite, Arizona. Once he returns home in the spring, it does not take long for Frank to tune up his ultralight and become airborne once again. ISI

Kids say some surprising things Submitted by Julie Hollar One Easter Sunday as the Minister was preaching the children’s sermon, he reached into his bag of props and pulled out an egg. He pointed at the egg and asked the children, “What’s in here?”

“I know,” one little boy exclaimed, “Pantyhose!”

IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 43

One Sunday in a Midwest City, a young child was acting up during the morning worship hour.

The parents did their best to maintain some sense of order in the pew, but were losing the battle. Finally, the father picked the little fellow up and walked sternly up the aisle on his way out.

Just before reaching the safety of the foyer, the little one called loudly to the congregation, “Pray for me! Pray for me!”

Little Johnny asked his Grandma how old she was. Grandma answered, “Thirty-nine and holding.”

One particular four-year old prayed, “And Johnny thought for a moment, and then said, forgive us our trash baskets as we forgive those “And how old would you be if you let go?” who put trash in our baskets.”

A little boy was overheard praying, “Lord, A little boy was in a relative’s wedding. As if you can’t make me a better boy, don’t worry he was going down the aisle, he would take two about it. I’m having a real good time like I am.” steps, stop, and turn to the crowd. While facing the crowd, he would put his hands up like claws and roar.

A Sunday school teacher asked her little So it went, step ROAR, step ROAR, step children, as they were on the way to church ROAR - all the way down the aisle. As you can service, “And why is it necessary to be quiet in imagine, the crowd was near tears from laughing church?” so hard by the time he reached the pulpit.

One bright little girl replied, “Because people When asked what he was doing, the child are sleeping.” ISI sniffed and said, “I was being the Ring Bear.”

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APRIL/MAY 2009