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Muriel Simbro inducted into National Skydiving Museum Hall of Fame By Jack McNeel Last November in Eloy, Arizona, Clark Fork’s Muriel Simbro joined a very select group with her induction into the National Skydiving Museum Hall of Fame located in Vicksburg, Virginia. Though recognition is recent, Muriel’s skydiving history dates to 1960 when she and her husband Hank first started jumping from planes. Perhaps the story should start even earlier, 86 years earlier, when Muriel was born in Santa Monica and eventually graduated from North Hollywood High in 1945. About those early years and her marriage, she says with a laugh, “It’s a story in itself. My husband is my step brother,” which requires a bit of explanation. “We went to church together, not knowing each other. He would sit on one end of the pew and I would sit on the other. His mother had put him in military school and he looked so cute in his uniform. We were both eight years old. I kept looking down the pew at him but he never looked my way.” Muriel’s mother passed away when Muriel was 13. “When we turned 14 my dad fell in love with his (Hank’s) mother.” They married a year later and Muriel’s father adopted Hank. “We fell in love,” she declares. He served 27 months in the Marine Corps and was wounded at Iwo Jima but when he came home they married. That was in May of 1946. Those early married years were a wonderful time. They built a roadster and a hot rod to ride on the desert. They got their pilot’s licenses. And they started a family which was to eventually number three daughters. Muriel explains that the skydiving began shortly before 1960. “We were coming through a canyon in San Fernando and saw these guys jumping out of an airplane. Skydiving was rare at that time. Hank said, ‘We ought to get a parachute and put it in this plane.’ He went to the drop zone to see what was going on and the guy told him he should take a jump to see how he liked it. Hank made his first jump the next weekend. He was so excited!” She was initially a little reluctant to jump. She told him she would take him up so he could jump during the week. “So he did. I dropped him for 40 jumps.” His excitement continued. It was all he could think about and he encouraged her to try it. It wasn’t long until she relented. “They put me in a cargo chute, a 32-footer. Normally they are just 28-feet. I was up there so long I thought they (Continued on page 6) Top Photo - Muriel and her youngest daughter jump together at the Parachute Pioneers in Massachusetts in 2011. Bottom Photo - Muriel with two daughters and a granddaughter who did a tandem jump last fall in Arizona – when she was 85. (Photos provided by Muriel Simbro)

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Enjoyed Wagon Wheel Article Hi Merry Christmas to you! Hey, thank you for sending your newspapers to Idaho’s Boise Valley!! We really do enjoy your pages. Could you forward three copies of the December 2012 issue of the Idaho Senior Independent? I’ve lost the articles from December about the wagon wheels in Cardston, Alberta, Canada that was absolutely wonderful. Mail them and let me know how much I owe you! Thank you very

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013

much and may God bless ya all! I’m 78 and still January issue of the Idaho Senior Independent. Due to unforeseen circumstances in Naf, we will be like Idaho taters! opening Easter weekend, March 29, 2013 instead Johnny Wagoneer of earlier as we had planned. If anyone needs to Caldwell contact us please call 208-824-5780. We will have a web site coming soon and we look forward meetNaf Mercantile ing all our visitors. Opens Easter Weekend Brent Hobson Thank you for the article you ran about my wife Malta ISI and me and our Naf Mercantile in the December/

Help with Medicare Billing

Why Preplan Your Funeral?

By Dan Glenn Is Medicare billing confusing you? Having the right information is always the key to making sound decisions, feeling comfortable with a situation, or knowing when to seek assistance from an outside party. Fortunately, there is a resource in helping Medicare beneficiaries protect themselves from possible fraud, abuse, or error. These errors cost the beneficiary and taxpayers, a lot of money, which could be used to provide more health care coverage to those we care about. The Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP), as part of the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) and Area Agency on Aging of North Idaho, is committed to assisting Medicare beneficiaries in their effort to avoid such errors or possible abuse, with three keys: Protect. Detect. Report. Senior Medicare Patrol empowers seniors through outreach, education, and one-on-one counseling sessions, while making certain that beneficiaries, and their families, have a contact name and number for any questions they may have regarding possible errors or abuse of their Medicare account. As with any worthwhile program, much of the effort is powered by volunteers, which are always welcome and needed. Anyone 55 or older interested in joining the Senior Medicare Patrol can contact Dan Glenn at 208-667-3179 or email dglenn@aaani.org. ISI

Thinking about your own funeral leaves most people feeling a little uneasy, but more adults are finding that preplanning a funeral offers great emotional and even financial security for them and their families. With preplanning, families find comfort in knowing that the funeral reflects what their loved one wanted. It also gives them peace of mind not to have to make important decisions at a stressful time. If you are considering prearranging a funeral, you should contact funeral homes in your community. A funeral director can walk you through the prearrangement process and answer your questions. Once you have made those prearrangements, keep a copy of the plan and any pertinent paperwork in a safe place. Also, inform a close friend or relative what arrangements have been made and where the information may be found. If you choose, there are several ways to prepay for your funeral that can offer you financial benefits. For an individual who may be applying for Medicaid benefits, establishing an irrevocable pre-need funeral plan can significantly affect and benefit your heirs. If you need a referral to an Idaho Funeral Service Association member in your community, please call us at 208-888-2730. Our members also belong to the National Funeral Directors Association and adhere to the highest ethical standards in Funeral Service. All our members abide by the Code of Professional Ethics as adopted by the National Funeral Directors Association. ISI

Idaho Senior Independent A Barrett-Whitman Publication 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 E-mail: idahoseniorind@bresnan.net The Idaho Senior Independent is published six times each year in February, April, June, August, October, and December by Barrett-Whitman, 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.

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Resolutions are working, and Valentine’s Day is upon us. With the luck o’ the Irish, you just may find that special someone to be your Easter bunny by responding to one of these ads – someone to hold your hand during romantic movies, to join you at the parade, or to share that first kiss of spring. Now is the time to get fresh with a new flame! To respond to any of these personal ads, simply forward your message, address, phone number, 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. We will forward your response, including your address, phone number, and/or email address to the person placing the ad. When 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 be 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 own ad to run in our next issue. There is no charge for this service, and your ad may lead you down the path of true love! Responses to personal ads appearing in this column can be submitted at any time. However,

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to place a personal ad to appear in the April/May 2013 issue, the deadline is March 10, 2013. I am a SWM, 69 years young, 5’10”, and 190lbs. I am seeking a SWF or a SBF between 60 and 72. I enjoy good music, camping, fishing, going for walks, and spending time together. I am a quiet person, and I do not smoke or drink. Please send your photo and your phone number. I would love to hear from you. Reply ISI, Dept. 8601, c/o Idaho Senior Independent, Box 3341, Great Falls, MT 59403. To a lonely widower, all I want for the New Year is someone to share the rest of my life with! My husband passed away 3-1/2 years ago. We were married forty-five years! He died of cancer after 5 years of suffering and I took care of him until the end. He died at home with me! But it is time to move on. I don’t smoke, don’t drink and take no prescription drugs or otherwise! Take vitamins and am healthy. I enjoy motor home travel, slow dancing, puzzles, and I like to read and walk. I prefer someone mid 60s to late 70s with blue eyes, happy disposition and should be retired! If interested please write to me. Reply ISI, Dept. 8602, c/o Idaho Senior Independent, Box 3341, Great Falls, MT 59403. Ever had a really good friend that you did lots of things together? One that you could talk to and share your dreams with? That’s what I’m looking for. I enjoy lots of things; traveling, gardening, camping, being active, and exploring the outdoors. I try hard to be positive and see the best in everything. At 61 years old, female, blond/blue eyes, 5’4”, pretty good shape and fairly attractive. I can hold my own. I’m OK financially and looking for a friend first. Must be between 60-68 and non-smoker. Let’s make this interesting: Sell me on why

you are the right guy. Also, send age and photo. You’ll get my info in return and maybe much more! Reply ISI, Dept. 8603, c/o Idaho Senior Independent, Box 3341, Great Falls, MT 59403. SWM, 78, ex-hyperactive adult, nominal Christian, latent Buddhist, looking for little old lady in tennis shoes, country girl or otherwise adventurous woman for friendship, companionship... potential partner. Pen pal okay and I will answer all responses. Reply ISI, Dept. 8604, c/o Idaho Senior Independent, Box 3341, Great Falls, MT 59403 Do you have a zest for life? Do you have the time, desire, physical well-being, and freedom to pursue it? Do you know how to really communicate? Do you know how to reciprocate? If you answered yes to all these questions, please read on. I am a spiritual, SWM, 63, 5’9”, 175 lbs., retired, and in good physical condition. My interests include walking, reading, music, dancing, boating, motorcycling, camping, and traveling. I live in Coeur d’Alene. I seek a woman, 45-65, with similar interests, values, and qualities for friendship, companionship, fun, and perhaps more. My philosophy is to live life to the fullest and make the most of each day I am blessed with. If you feel the same, please contact me! Reply ISI, Dept. 8605, c/o Idaho Senior Independent, Box 3341, Great Falls, MT 59403. Looking for someone who still enjoys making love - kissing, cuddling and maybe more. I may be getting old but I still care about love. I am interested only in sexually active people for correspondence and possible meeting. I am 5’9” and 180 pounds, a non-smoker, a non-drinker with a great sense of humor. I love to laugh. Girls and guys, let’s become friends. Reply ISI, Dept. 8606, c/o Idaho Senior Independent, Box 3341, Great Falls, MT 59403 ISI

Sharing With Brothers A cowboy, who just moved to Idaho from Texas, walked into a bar and ordered three mugs of Bud. He sat in the back of the room, drinking a sip out of each one in turn. When he finished them, he went back to the bar and ordered three more. The bartender approached and said to the cowboy, “You know, a mug goes flat after I draw it. It would taste better if you bought one at a time.” The cowboy replied, “Well, you see, I have two brothers. One is in Arizona; the other is in Colorado. When we all left our home in Texas, we promised that we’d drink this way to remember the days when we drank together. So I’m drinking one beer for each of my brothers and one for myself.” The bartender admitted that this was a nice custom, and left it there. The cowboy became a regular in the bar, and always drank the same way. He ordered three mugs and drank them in turn. One day, he came in and only ordered two mugs. All the regulars took notice and fell silent. When he came back to the bar for the second round, the bartender said, “I don’t want to intrude on your grief, but I wanted to offer my condolences on your loss.” The cowboy looked quite puzzled for a moment, then a light dawned in his eyes and he laughed. “Oh, no, everybody’s just fine,” he explains, “It’s just that my wife and I joined the Baptist Church and I had to quit drinking. “Hasn’t affected my brothers though.” ISI

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013

Fun and creative, our winning Remember When poem puts a mirror in front of us to reflect ourselves in its word play. All readers should appreciate this lighthearted exploration of our yesterdays in the light of our fewer tomorrows. This poignantly worded poem reminds us all that the sands of time will flow forever – like it or not. Thank you to Pearl Hoffman, of Los Angeles for sharing Keeping my Feet Dry While Wading in a Pool of Possibilities with our readers. Pearl is the winner of our $25 Remember When prize for this issue. Remember When contains our readers’ personal reflections, contributions describing fictional or non-fictional accounts from the “Good ol’ Days,”

IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 5

or reflections on life in general. Contributions may be stories, letters, artwork, poetry, etc. Photos may be included. Each issue of the Idaho Senior Independent features the contributions 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 April/May 2013 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. Visit us online at www. idahoseniorindependent.com.

Keeping My Feet Dry While Wading In A Pool Of Possibilities By Pearl Hoffman, Los Angeles Even if... with a nip or two here and a tuck or two there, the surgeon can lift my sagging derriere, siphon my thighs, turn my bosom aggressive, and make my age seem remote and regressive...

REASON

E S TO LOV

™

And even if... aerobics can keep me fit as a fiddle, firm on the bottom and slim in the middle. and my doctor increases my hormone medication, and my guru perfects my Transcendental Meditation, and my stylist creates a special coiffure, and my colorist tints my hair “Blonde du Jour,” and my clothes are the newest and hottest creations of some of the latest designer sensations, when it comes to past youth, there is no replay. At 85 years, it’s too late in my day. So, even if... I can talk the neat talk; I can’t walk the sweet walk, for in certain positions, my body would balk. With old, tired blood and bones that are crispy, being too frisky is just far too risky. ISI

Cowboy from Idaho Submitted by Julie Hollar-Brantley A cowboy appeared before St. Peter at the Pearly Gates. “Have you ever done anything of particular merit?” St. Peter asked. “Well, I can think of one thing,” the cowboy offered. “On a trip to the Black Hills out in South Dakota, I came upon a gang of bikers who were threatening a young woman. I directed them to leave her alone, but they wouldn’t listen. “So, I approached the largest and most tattooed biker and smacked him in the face, kicked his bike over, ripped out his nose ring, and threw it on the ground. I yelled, ‘Now, back off or I’ll kick the crap out of all of you!’” St. Peter was impressed. “When did this happen?” “A couple of minutes ago.” ISI

THE UPSIDE OF DOWNSIZING YOUR HOME IN IDAHO. SOONER OR LATER the idea of moving from your four-bedroom home into a two-bedroom bungalow will start to sound appealing. Less home means less space to clean, furnish and of course to insure. If downsizing is the next thing on your bucket list, make sure and call one of our local Farm Bureau Insurance agents today. They’ll help you bundle your home and auto policies to help you save even more money. Oh, and don’t worry there will be no downsizing when it comes to the great customer service that our agents are well known for.

Win an iPod Touch!™ If you have a great shot of Idaho o that you’d like to share, the “Reasons to Love Idaho” Photo Contest could be your shot at a new Apple iPod Touch.™ Visit www.reasonstoloveidaho.com for more informtion..

PAGE 6 IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT

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Muriel Simbro Skydiving - continued from cover page were going to shoot me down,” she says with a laugh. “I really enjoyed it and that started it. When you’re up there in a parachute and are drifting you can hear just about everything on the ground. It’s liberating. You just forget everything.” She started jumping every weekend. “We bought parachutes. There were six in a pack, war surplus from the Air Force. It was just wonderful and cost hardly anything. “I enjoyed every minute of every part of it; getting in the airplane, getting up there, jumping out. I learned to spot my jumps. I would land where I wanted to land. I started accumulating jumps. I was just about the only woman on the west coast in our area jumping. Finally, Hank said, ‘We’ve got to have a goal. We can’t just keep jumping even if we keep winning.’” The national competition for the Olympic parachuting team was in August of 1962 and both Hank and Muriel signed up for the tryouts. They ran from May until August at the training camp in Kansas, practicing the different types of jumps. Muriel explained one was a style jump where the jumper turns left, then right, and then does it from the other side and within a prescribed time. Another was the accuracy jump and performed from different altitudes.

“We got so proficient and I had accumulated so many jumps that I was eligible for a ‘D’ license.” She explains that ‘D’ is the highest license you can get in parachuting. “I got mine at 200 jumps in less than two years,” she adds. “I got #78 and there were no other women for awhile after that. My husband Hank also got a ‘D’ license.” The Olympic World Parachuting Championship was held in Orange, Massachusetts against competitors from 24 countries. “It was just wonderful,” she exclaims. “We had so much jumping to do and I kept getting higher and higher in my scores. I finally reached the top. I wasn’t watching the scoreboard but my husband was. He was just elated.” The U.S. women’s team finished first in the competition. Skydiving and their girls became their life. “We sold everything to keep our jumping going. We sold our freezer, turned in our ’57 T-Bird and got a station wagon – do you believe that?” she exclaims. Muriel was one of the first to do the acrobatic style of jumping in this country and one of few women doing jumps back in the ‘60s. She has made 625 jumps. Asked how many other women were in the Hall of Fame she states, “I think three others.” She says some women now have more jumps than she has “but they do it different. They hold hands,” which she considers boring. “I used to hold a hula hoop and let the guys go through it. We had baton passes with a cut off broom and passed it from one to another. My husband and I used to come together and kiss all the time. That was neat! It’s hard to get that close together.” She and Hank moved to Herren, Montana in 1972 and lived there for 31 years but didn’t do any jumping. Her last jump, until recently, was in 1967. About a year and a half ago, she went to a 50-year reunion with the Parachute Pioneers in Orange, Mass. Her youngest daughter accompanied her and together they made a tandem jump. “That was good,” she says. Then in November, she went to the Skydiving Hall of Fame event in Arizona with her granddaughter and two of her daughters. “We all made a tandem jump together,” she adds. She was 85 at the time. She and Hank moved to northern Idaho in 2002 but unfortunately Hank passed away in 2010. Their love is evident when she talks of their life together. “I really miss him. We had 64 years together,” she recalls warmly. Today she lives in downtown Clark Fork within walking distance of most everything she needs. “I line dance at the Senior Center every Tuesday and on Wednesday mornings we exercise there. Friday night I play bingo at the VFW. We have lots of fun. I’m a Baptist Church member. Life is just great.” ISI

By Connie Daugherty Trafficking: a Memoir of an Undercover Game Warden by Tony H. Latham; 2012 “Without question, this investigation took my innocence away – it changed me. These events happened in the early part of my career… and forged my philosophy on wildlife law enforcement,” writes Tony Latham in his selfpublished memoir, Trafficking. The old adage that fact is often stranger than fiction definitely rings true in Latham’s memoir. Well-written in a detailed, straight-forward, and pageturner style, Trafficking tells the story of one case of criminal trafficking of big game animals that leads a young game warden into a world far removed from his own and populated by people he never would have imagined himself associating with much less ingratiating himself to. It is a world not only of illegal hunting, but also of cruelty, drugs, rape, and murder. And all of it was taking place right in his backyard – in north central Idaho. To say that his innocence was taken away is putting it mildly. From the time he was a teenager, Tony Latham knew he wanted to be a game warden. He loved the outdoors, hunting, and had great respect for wildlife and the routine duties of a game warden. However, he was also intrigued by the possibilities of undercover work. “Game wardens rely on basic police work to solve most wildlife crimes,” he explains. “They get wind of the crime, gather evidence…, and interview potential witnesses or suspects. The biggest challenge in wildlife law enforcement is the frequent lack of witnesses to report the crime.” Game wardens, like your local police, live and work in an assigned area. They know the territory and the people who are often their friends and neighbors. And since the wardens “can’t be everywhere they rely on citizens to keep their eyes and ears open.” When a crime is reported, a procedure must be followed. “The first thing [the warden] looks at is how the source got the information and why he’s coming forth.” If the assertion of a crime being committed seems legitimate then the wheels are put into motion. That is what happened with the Crabtree Bed and Breakfast case – the undercover assignment that became an integral part of Tony’s life for eight long months. During the operation, he partnered with Mike, a former Secret Service officer. Trafficking is a chapter-by-chapter depiction of the experience. In January, Tony and Mike arrived at the Crabtree Bed and Breakfast posing as anglers. That night they had their first taste of illegal game – moose

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tesy almost cost them the whole case when word leaked out that Tony the game warden was illegally buying fish from the reservation Indians. “Neither of them should have known about the investigation‌ they were good uniform officers‌ but neither had worked undercover. They just didn’t get it.â€? It was a frightening moment for Tony because by now it had become clear that the men he was targeting were not only a danger to wildlife, they were prone to violence and could be a danger to Tony and Mike as well. However, for the time being they seemed safe so they continued to play their roles. However as they got in deeper and deeper it began to wear on them. They were trusted by the targets that opened up about other crimes, about the rape of a woman and a child, about abuse of girlfriends, about plans for prostitution. “I was ragged‌ never forgetting the role that needed played; outlaw Tony Henderson‌ it was the struggle between my emotional and cognitive processes. I felt as if I had been in a continual ‘fight or flight’ state while holding my cards tight‌. We’d been putting in long stressful days and we were both getting burned out.â€? Time to take a break. Time to get back to being Tony Latham, game warden. But this time he approached the job a bit differently, Mike Best and Gary Burke had given me another skill set: The covert option.â€? Before long, Tony and Mike were back at the Crabtree – back in character and discovering even more illegal happenings. These people were into everything imaginable. “Mike and I both agreed that in a perfect trafficking investigation

Review of Discovering England from One Inch above the Thames, by Jim Payne (Lytton, 2012) By Cate Huisman Readers will remember the author of this book, Sandpoint’s Jim Payne, from his profile that appeared in these pages in February of 2008. Jim is retired from teaching politics at several universities and now lives in Sandpoint, where he tunes pianos, sings in the Pend Oreille Chorale, writes and publishes books, and plots his next kayaking trip. When we last met Jim, he had just published One Inch Above the Water, a book about his solo trip down the Columbia River in a folding kayak. That book covered the perils of passing by large ships and the challenges of getting his craft around the Columbia’s many dams. Having now paddled the Mississippi, Hudson, Potomac, and Connecticut Rivers in the United States, among others, Jim had to go abroad to find an appropriate new challenge. His new book, Discovering England from One Inch above the Thames, describes his adventures paddling the Thames River from its origins in Cricklade to the tidewaters below London. As is his habit on these kayaking trips, Payne purposefully made no allowance for his overnight accommodations along the Thames; he finds that the absence of such commitments “thrusts me into contact with other human beings.� This attitude netted him free places to leave his boat, a free ride on a Thames narrowboat, and several offers of beds and meals in private homes. But he also had to practice what he calls “commando camping,� an approach to overnighting wherever darkness finds him that has served him well but is occasionally uncomfortable. Although the book is organized as a chronological travelogue describing his descent of the river, each chapter addresses an aspect of British character. Jim notes that roads and buildings are as crooked as the river (which takes 170 river miles to travel a distance of 80 miles as the crow flies), concluding that this occurs not for any practical reason but is a function of a native lack of fondness for straight lines. Similarly, he was often offered a “full cooked English breakfast� during his travels,

and found in its repetitive sameness a British sense of tradition. Jim’s years of teaching politics have left him unimpressed with government, and his trip gives him several opportunities glowingly to note ways around it on the Thames. Before he set out, he read that licenses are required of all craft on the river, but characteristically, he refused to get one. “What’s next?� he writes. “A license to smell the flowers?� Fourteen miles into the trip, at the first of the river’s 44 locks, he was pleasantly surprised to find the government lockkeeper quite civil about this issue. “He wasn’t demanding that I get one. He spoke as if this was a requirement imposed by nature, like the need for an umbrella against rain, and he could do me a favor by supplying it.� Further down the river, he credits a lockkeeper with suggesting he may store his kayak at a government dock for a few days. “I expect it was against the rules of the agency to allow that, but lockkeepers instinctively put the interests of humanity above those of bureaucracy.� Jim finds the most challenging part of the trip at the end, when he has to transport the kayak (now folded and packed) and all his other gear from a Docklands landing to his hotel in London via the London Underground. Having survived that, he’s ready for his next trip and already planning a trip down the Ohio River for next summer. ISI

you’d ensnare both the sellers and the buyers.� But seldom is there ever a perfect scenario in the real world. “It was obvious we could just continue breaking the law with this wild bunch, but in the end you could only squeeze so much juice out of an onion.� It was time to begin plans for the final phase. “[I]t would take close to thirty officers and four agencies in three states to pull off.� That was a lot of bureaucracy to organize. Trafficking is the story of the first undercover operation in which Tony Latham was involved. The details included not only make a great read, but also provide an education into the laws governing hunting and fishing in Idaho and how they have evolved. During his 22 years as an Idaho Game Warden Tony continued to protect the wildlife and the people in his charge. Serving both in and out of uniform with the Idaho Fish and Game, he continued to pursue wildlife criminals and support legal hunters. He is now retired and lives in Salmon, Idaho. ISI

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shot out of season – for dinner. “We’d been in the area for two nights but it seemed as though we’d been there a week. Rex had told us about selling meat to us, the prostitution, the moose meat meal, and the three deer he had killed‌ from the back of a pickup. I could hardly believe what we had stepped into.â€? And as it turns out that was just the tip of the iceberg. Over the next months, the two partners would eat dozens of meals of illegal moose, elk, and deer. The more often the two undercover wardens showed up at the Crabtree and the more encounters they had with Rex and his associates, the more the risk that they would be discovered increased. “The undercover is always on the alert for a sign of paranoia from the target. At the same time, undercover has the same paranoid feeling for the opposite reason. The target is looking for something in you that tells them you’re the law‌ a change in behavior that puts up a red flag.â€? When they were working, they had to become literally the persona they were portraying. And while Rex had been easy to fool, many of his friends were more suspicious of outsiders. So it was a few months into the operation that Tony made a deal with one of the other targets. “Inside I was beaming. I had just pulled off my first illegal buy of wildlife‌ I’d managed to get Newt to dig his hole.â€? Things were moving along. In between visits to the Crabtree, both Mike and Tony went back to their normal lives. For Tony that included keeping his boss more-or-less in the loop of what was going on. This professional cour-

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Firearms have led John Kontes on a life of discovery By Dianna Troyer less energy not only into collecting but also into For years, the Winchester model 1885 single fixing firearms. shot rifle stood in John Kontes’ gun collection “When I was 13, I took a gun to a gunsmith, before he knew its true owner and value. and it came back worse than when I took it to “It was among six guns I bought for $65 in him. I knew I could learn and do a better job than 1980,” recalls the 81-year-old master gunsmith, he had done.” who lives in Pocatello and has a nationally reA year later, he found a reputable gunsmith. nowned collection of 175 firearms. “Nine years, I worked for him for free in my time “Since I was young, I’ve been crazy about off to learn the trade. By word-of-mouth, people guns and collecting them, the older the better. I brought me guns to work on. I did whatever they love seeing how technology has changed over the needed – triggers, recoil pads, stocks… I’ve centuries and how guns have been built in differ- been working on guns for 67 years now.” ent countries. I have everything you can imagine During the Korean War, John served in the made in America: shotguns, revolvers, Civil War Army from 1951 to 1953 and was assigned to an rifles, cap-and-ball ordnance unit pistols. I even have in Alaska. some Japanese “A sergeant matchlocks and asked me Arabian flintlocks.” about my backOne day a ground, so I friend asked John told him I was if he could borrow a gun hobbythe forearm of the ist. He barked Winchester, so he at me that he could reproduce it didn’t have time to repair a gun. to train a hob“We removed the byist and wonforearm, and what dered what use do you know? I was.” There, written in One day, the pencil was a signasergeant asture – CM Russell.” signed John a He consulted nearly imposRussell experts to John Kontes, 81, a master gunsmith works on a rifle in his Pocatello sible task. shop. He’s known on the gun show circuit for owning a rifle that confirm the signa- belonged to artist Charlie Russell and owning several rare Brown“There were ture was made by ing rifles. [Photo by Dianna Troyer] 18 machine the famed Monguns with head tana artist and has a letter verifying its authenticity. spaces set wrong, causing cases to be stuck. No “I was told Russell had several signature one could figure out how to get the cases out, so styles, and this was his last one, with the M inside he told me to cut the barrels off with a hacksaw, the C.” then he left for the rifle range.” For decades on the gun show circuit throughJohn didn’t want to cut the barrels because out the West, John became known for the Russell it seemed wasteful. “I wondered what to do. rifle and for his collection of rare Browning rifles, Then I’ll never forget what happened. It was as many sold to him directly from the Browning fam- if the Good Lord tapped me on the shoulder and ily. He told curious viewers how he came to own whispered what I should do. I took every case out the scarce and valuable firearms. without scratching a chamber and stacked them The Russell rifle came to John through a friend in a neat row. After that, he gave me equipment named Woody who worked at the Just Army Store and parts to work on more projects and knew I’d in Idaho Falls. One day, an old man who had once get the job done.” lived in Montana came in to sell six guns. Woody After the war, John, 22, returned to Idaho. He bought the guns, thinking John might want to buy found a job working as a pipefitter at the Idaho them for his collection, not knowing that Russell National Laboratory, where he got the name for had once owned one of the guns. his part-time business, Eight Ball Gun Shop. Last year, the Russell rifle was appraised for A supervisor told him to get someone to help $150,000 to $250,000 by an East Coast auction him carry a tank of acetylene up to a second house that John had contacted to help him sell floor. his collection. “I did it myself and was carrying it up a ladder, “You can’t take them with you, and at my age and guess who was at the top. The supervisor. it’s time for someone else to enjoy them as much He was so mad. That tank weighed 240 pounds, as I have. They’re worth a lot more now than what and he was afraid I’d drop it. He yelled at me I paid for them.” and called me an ‘Eight Ball.’ I thought that was When he was collecting, John was never mo- a good name for my shop.” tivated by the guns’ potential investment value. There’s always a warm sense of camarade“Guns fascinate me, and I did any job to earn rie in John’s shop as friends and clients drop in money to buy some,” says John, who grew up in throughout the day. Firth working on his dad’s fox and mink farm. “I’d “There’s nothing he can’t fix, especially if pitch hay and buck spuds. Sometimes, I’d get you tell him something can’t be done,” says his paid with a gun instead of money.” son, Chris. “The word ‘can’t’ has never been in He even worked shining shoes in Idaho Falls, Dad’s vocabulary.” where one of his clients was J. Ed Browning, a John often marelative of Jonathan Browning, the founder of the chines parts because storied Browning Arms Company. springs and triggers “He owned the local Buick dealership. As I that are mass-produced was working on his shoes, he asked if I liked old in a factory aren’t alguns. Did I ever.” ways made to the corHe showed John some guns passed down rect specifications and through the family. As John became acquainted break. with family members, he eventually purchased Eric Krasa, a longseveral Browning rifles including Jonathan Brown- time client and friend, ing’s personal Harmonica rifle. stops by. “He’s one of “He brought it with him when he led a wagon the most meticulous train to Utah,” says John. gunsmiths around. He A perfectionist, John has channeled his end- can machine any part

you need and have a gun fixed in a timely manner. I’m fortunate to have several rifles and custom knives he’s built for me.” John began making knives after not finding any built to his satisfaction. “The edge never stayed sharp or the handle didn’t fit your hand. I use high-carbon Swedish tool steel for the blade and antlers for the handles.” He donated many of his knives to numerous local conservation and wildlife organizations to raise money at banquets. In 2005, the U.S. Department of the Interior gave special recognition to John for his philanthropy. “When I started collecting guns, I didn’t know where it would lead or what I’d find. It’s been a good ride.” ISI

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It’s raining cats and dogs. Fighting like cats and dogs. Are you a dog lover or a cat lover? No matter how you shake it everyone loves our furry little friends, and they are the theme of the game in this issue! Because we did not have a winning entry from a reader for the December/January 2013 issue, the prize for submitting the featured quiz to appear in this February/March 2013 issue is $50. Congratulations to Patty Ryan Friedrich! None of our readers who submitted answers to our How Well Do You Know Your Minutiae? quiz

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013

that appeared in our December/January 2013 issue had all correct answers, so there is no winner of the $25 cash prize. The prize will be carried forward to this contest, so put on your thinking caps and win $50! Two $25 cash prizes are awarded from the “Contest Corner” in each issue of the Idaho Senior Independent. One prize goes to the person who submits the entry that our staff selects as the featured quiz or puzzle in the “Contest Corner” for that issue. Be creative and send us some good,

fun, and interesting puzzles! The second $25 prize goes to the person who submits the 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, or email to idahoseniorind@bresnan.net by March 10, 2013 for our April/May 2013 edition. Be sure to work the crossword puzzle on our website www.idahoseniorindependent.com.

Cats and Dogs Submitted by Patty Friedrich Below is a grid of scrambled letters, with the words listed below hidden in the grid. Circle all the words you can find in the grid, which may be vertical, horizontal, or diagonal, and drop your answers in the mail to us. Good luck

SAVE PAWS POOCH WATER PLAY BOWL NICE CATNIP LOVE KITTEN CAT

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FUN CUTE ADOPT SOFT

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Answers to How Well Do You Know Your Minutiae? Created by ISI Staff 1. San Antonio 1,359,758 followed by San Diego – 1,326,179 million 2. Nose and ears 3. Lithium 4. Wynton and Bransford Marsalis 5. Either Arabic or Italian (Italian, from alteration of medieval Latin zephirum, from Arabic èifr, nothing) 6. Haiku 7. 6/5, 1 1/5, or 1.2 8. Hansel & Gretel

9. Shirley McLaine in Irma La Douce; Brooke Shields in Pretty Baby; and Rebecca de Mornay in Risky Business 10. two violins, one viola, and one cello 11. AC: alternating current; DC: direct current 12. I Will Always Love You 13. Robert F. Kennedy 14. King George VI 15. Valley of the Dolls by Jacqueline Susann ISI

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013

IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 11

5. *Used for gliding 6. In a frenzy 7. “___ but true” 8. Literature in metrical form 9. Tobacco mouthful 10. River islet 11. Dwarf buffalo 12. In the Ivy League 15. Pitted peach, e.g. 20. Not the same one 22. Indian restaurant staple 24. Feeling no doubt 25. *Hot treat 26. *Ingredient in infamous cake 27. Played by Yo-Yo Ma 29. Kind of surgeon 31. Marty McFly’s antagonist 32. Tangerine-grapefruit hybrid, pl. 33. Tarzan’s swing rope 34. *Snow impression

ACROSS 1. Mt. Everest, McKinley and such 6. Cleopatra’s cause of death 9. Crack in a lip 13. *Hot toddy, e.g. 14. Former Chinese communist leader 15. Glowed or beamed 16. Pronouncements 17. “___ to Joy” 18. Bird of prey weapon 19. Hungarian composer Bela ______ 21. *Popular winter sculpture 23. Thus far 24. Greenish blue 25. Former refrigerant 28. *A snow____ is one for trekking on snow 30. Astronomer’s sighting 35. Miners’ bounty, pl. 37. One who “____ on the safe side” 39. Start eating! 40. Heaven’s Gate, e.g. 41. 1:3, e.g.

43. Captured in fun 44. “Well-_____ machine” 46. Falls behind 47. Like tiny print 48. Like number 1 to hydrogen 50. Cuzco valley empire 52. Jack Kerouac’s Paradise 53. Pottery oven 55. Everybody or everything 57. *_______ break 61. Done after a trip 64. Wombs 65. Gas station abbreviation 67. Florida Key, e.g. 69. Turf, as opposed to surf 70. Unagi 71. *Heard on sleigh ride? 72. Cab blower 73. *Snow falls from it 74. Irregularly notched DOWN 1. Sum it up 2. Where a baby goes 3. Maryland Institute College of Art 4. Diary note

36. Kind of cell 38. *Capricorn or Aquarius, e.g. 42. Extinct Italic language 45. Tiny antelope 49. Result of Truman’s National Security Act of 1947 51. *Kind of skiing 54. Ancient Greeks’ harps 56. Lightsaber beam 57. Be quiet! 58. “The Simpsons” palindrome 59. Malicious look 60. Ayatollah’s home 61. Pre-swan state? 62. Greek muse of history 63. Party casks 66. Expresses mild alarm or surprise 68. “___ End” by The Doors ISI

PAGE 12 IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT

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Music bonds Strobels’ lives Article & Photo By Jack McNeel Thousands gather in Coeur d’Alene each July 4 to view the parade. Perhaps the most popular entrant each year is a wild band known as the Perfection-Nots. They have performed annually since 1978 wearing crazy outfits but producing some outstanding music. Few know the complete history of the group but a Coeur d’Alene couple, Larry and Sharon Strobel, are at the center of it. “There was no music scheduled for the parade that year. Sharon and her sister said, ‘We know a lot of people who play musical instruments. Why don’t we put together a band? We don’t have uniforms; we could just wear funny clothes.’� I said, “Oh man, do you know what you’re putting yourself into?� But he figured with the right instruments you could get by with about a dozen people. “I got rejected by some pretty good musicians not wanting to make a fool of themselves,� he laughed. On July 4, 52 people showed up! Three high school musicians even wore paper sacks over their heads so they wouldn’t be identified. It turned out to be fun for the musicians and a hit of the

parade. Larry thought it was a one shot deal but the next summer he started getting phone calls from musicians asking about playing again in the parade. Last July was the 35th consecutive year the Percussion-Nots have performed. The musicians assemble in the Strobel’s back yard on July 1 for their one and only rehearsal. Then they march through the neighborhood to get a bit of practice – and then it’s on to the parade on the 4th. Music has played a major role in the lives of Larry and Sharon Strobel. It was music that brought them together and music has continued to play a big role in creating a strong marriage. Larry tells of when they met. “I was working for the post office at the time. Gil Burns, the band director at the high school was a good friend and had a trip to Seattle with the band and needed a chaperone. He asked if I’d go and help. I had days off so I said, ‘Yes.’ Sharon was in the band. I’d heard of her before. When I was in high school I’d gone out looking for a lost hunter. We found him and it was her grandfather.� Independent Living... That was the beOn Your Terms ginning. Movies and dances followed and If remaining in your home when Sharon graduated requires help, contact: from high school they married. Music remains important to this day, 41 years later. Both have long ties to Coeur d’Alene dating well over 100 A PROGRAM OF years. Larry was born THE DISABILITY ACTION CENTER NW, INC here but family members had arrived as Qualified Medicaid and Private Pay Options early as 1888 and later Coeur d’Alene Moscow Lewiston purchased land on the eastern edge of Coeur (208) 664-9896 (208) 883-0523 (208) 746-9033 d’Alene. Larry wrote a Visit us online at dacnw.org book about those early

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years and family history which was published in 2010 titled When the Mill Whistle Blew. “Louise Shadduck and my mother were good friends,� Larry explained. Louise insisted I write a book. Oh boy, did she push me!� he laughed. Sharon was born in Seattle and moved to Coeur d’Alene with her family after World War II however, her grandfather came to Coeur d’Alene from England in 1906. They both got into music early. Larry began playing violin in the 6th grade and continued through high school but during his sophomore year he “became enthralled with the sound of a French horn.� He has stayed with that instrument ever since and continues to both play and give private lessons at his home. Both their sons also play the French horn, as do their four grandchildren. “They didn’t have a chance,� he laughs. It’s a difficult instrument to play and Larry finds he needs to practice nearly daily to keep his lips in shape. Sharon’s musical interest is equally strong. She began on piano and then went to the flute in the 7th grade. She still plays flute but when the North Idaho Symphony was formed, they had plenty of flutes so she took up percussion. “If you hit it or shake it she plays it,� Larry laughed. Larry remained with the post office until retirement after nearly 41 years. Sharon works a few weeks each semester at the North Idaho College book store when it’s especially busy. This marks her 19th year. She also began selling Avon products 39 years ago to help augment Larry’s salary. “I have ladies I’ve sold to so long they are dear friends,� Sharon said. “Grandmother taught me to crochet when I was six years old and I’ve done it ever since,� she said. She also enjoys knitting. Most of those are given away as gifts, “baby blankets and the like.� She also became interested in collecting tooth pick holders and they belong to the National Association of Tooth Pick Holder Collectors. Meetings

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013

are held at different locations across the country which provides the opportunity to travel. Last year it was in Nashville. Most of these tooth pick holders were created between 1890 and 1915, “when it was acceptable to have tooth pick holders on the table,” she said. “It’s been a fun thing to collect.” Larry has become involved as well. It also serves a double purpose for him. “It’s kind of handy. If I don’t know what to get her for Mother’s Day I just get her a toothpick holder.” They belong to the North Idaho College Booster Club. It’s rare when they can’t be seen sitting behind the bench at a basketball game. Despite these other interests, their love of music is very evident when they discuss their involvement in various groups. Soon after they married Larry got a job with the 560th Air Force Band, a Washington Air National Guard outfit. He played French horn with that group for 12 years. It also kept him from being drafted into the army. “I’d rather play a horn than play a machine gun,” he said. “It was a good second job when we were first married. If I ever get my second book done I’ll have quite a section about the 560th Air Force Band. It was a great experience.”

IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 13

He ended up as a tech sergeant and could have stayed another eight years and had a nice retirement but by then his kids would have been raised and gone. He thought, “the weekends I’m over (in Washington) doing this I should be taking the kids huckleberrying or something, so I quit.” In 1973 the NIC/Community Band was formed by Robert Singletary and the Strobels have been in it ever since. Later Singletary started the North Idaho Symphony and they joined as well. That was when Sharon switched to percussion instruments and Larry continued with the French horn. They’re active members of the Presbyterian Church and help organize music for church cantatas at Easter and Christmas. If there’s music involved it’s a good bet they’re in the midst of it. Their various hobbies and music keep them busy. They are strong proponents for learning music and have encouraged their children and grand children to become involved. “At our age you can’t play football. Music is something you can do forever,” Larry noted. ISI

Follow the Tracks Across Boundary County By Bernice Karnop The Wild Horse Trail Scenic Byway, U.S 95, begins in Sandpoint and goes north through Bonner’s Ferry to the International Border at Porthill. If you know the history of the area, you can imagine the moccasins, hooves, and wagon wheels that widened the path into the asphalt ribbon you drive today. Ancestors of the Kootenai tribe beat the first dim trail that would become this scenic byway. They hunted big game, dug roots, and bulbs, and harvested huckleberries, blackberries, serviceberries, and chokecherries. But they liked fish well enough to beat a path to Lake Pend Oreille to catch and dry salmon, trout, and sturgeon. The Kootenai are considered a remote Algonquin group with a distinctive language not related to other Western tribes. Unlike most tribes, they had never signed a treaty with the United States saying they wouldn’t go to war with them. In 1974, they declared war on the United States. They posted soldiers on either end of the highway through Bonner’s Ferry and asked for a $1.00 toll. The money was used for elder care. The result of the standoff included a land grant of 10.5 acres north of town, which is now the Kootenai Reservation. Mapmaker David Thompson from the Northwest Trading Company and his companions left their tracks in the snow along this river as early as the winter of 1808-09. They arrived at the Kootenai camp tired and hungry and were welcomed with dried fish and black moss bread. Thompson established a short-lived trading post on Lake Pend Oreille the following year. Nearly 40 years later Jesuit missionary priest Father DeSmet trekked into the area and introduced Christianity to the Kootenai. Government surveyors arrived in 1858 and made their own artificial trail along the 49th Parallel, charting the border established in 1846 between British North America and the U.S. The Wild Horse Trail became a thoroughfare when gold was discovered just over the border on Wild Horse Creek in British Columbia. Now thousands of tracks churned the mud with not only the feet of men, but of horses and mules. A strange splayfoot track showed up on the trail unlike any seen here before. Just before the Civil War, the military became intrigued with using the camel as a pack animal. Camels are superior to mules, they reasoned, because they could carry 1,000-pound-loads, could travel 35 miles a day, and could go more than a week without water. The government imported camels from Egypt and tried them out. ISI

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The idea might have caught on if they hadn’t been distracted by the Civil War. As it was, the muleskinners never learned how to handle camels. Or perhaps they simply could not love this creature who spit and bit, and who caused other pack animals to stampede when they saw or smelled them on the trails. The American Camel Company of San Francisco sold camels to miners and several of the camel trains came through the Pend Oreille country on their way to the gold fields at Wild Horse Creek. The miners had the same problems as the military, and more. A Montana miner, mistaking one of the animals for a moose, shot it. The furious owner demanded the shooter’s watch and his mining claim in exchange for his loss. Walla Walla businessman Edwin Bonner came with the gold rush and established a ferry and trading post. Bonner’s Ferry charged $1.50 for a loaded pack animal and fifty cents for a person on foot to cross the Kootenai River. The Bonner’s Ferry Post Office was established in 1880, and by 1899, nearby towns of Eatonville and Fry had merged with it to make one town. Along with forest, river, and mountains, the

area around Bonner’s Ferry is filled with rich soil deposits left behind as the glaciers receded. The fertile Kootenai Valley drew those who would furrow the land and produce crops. The Spokane Review colorfully announced the arrival of a different track, that of the Great Northern Railroad in 1890. “The valley of the Kootenai now resounds with the neighing of the iron horse of civilization. Home seekers are locating along the valley and the miner is searching the crevices of the rocks and the slopes of the mountains in search of treasure. Woodmen are getting ready to fell the forest and in a few years this great valley will be alive with the hum of industry.” In 1902, the Spokane International Railroad bridged the river and the first lumber mill was established in 1904. Steamboats moved passengers and freight on the Kootenai River. Boundary County separated from Bonner County in 1915 and Bonner’s Ferry became the county seat. Bonner’s Ferry on the Wild Horse Scenic byway refused to fall into a rut but continues to maintain the footprint of small-town friendliness. Step into the Boundary County Museum downtown to see more of the steps that made it what it is today. Admission is by donation. ISI

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Gene Soper – One of the UFOs By Jack McNeel No, Gene Soper has nothing to do with unidentified flying objects as the UFO title might indicate. There is another group with those same initials called the United Flying Octogenarians, and there is no question as to its authenticity. If you’re at least 80 and still flying, you would qualify for UFO membership. Gene is 83, still does a lot of flying, and is one of about 1,200 members across the country. Gene has called Coeur d’Alene home since 1949 when he moved from southwestern Idaho where he had lived in towns such as New Plymouth, Emmett, and New Meadows, where he graduated from high school. Gene moved to Emmett after high school to work at his uncle’s wrecking yard and a 2-stall body shop because Gene wanted to learn auto body as a career. He had put himself through the final three years of high school fixing and selling cars. “That was just a self-taught vocational class,” he says. “I worked as a mechanic the rest of my life.” Gene started taking flying lessons in 1946 when money was scarce, and Gene says, “I had to squeak out my flying lessons – a lot of them 15 minutes at a time. I figured I had to learn landings and takeoffs. I didn’t have to learn the stuff in the air. That was going to come natural,” he said. Gene got his private license in 1951 and began working for Gage Air Service in Kellogg but split his time between the two towns, flying back and forth a couple times a week. “I got a lot of flying time in a Cub that way,” he remembers. He also recalls spending a lot of time around Weeks Field in Coeur d’Alene. It was located where Kootenai County Fairgrounds now sits. He had a small repair shop at his home and worked on ground rigs at Weeks Field. Rather than taking money for the work, he traded it out in flying time and spent as much time as possible in the air. When Weeks Field closed, Gene was the last pilot to fly out. “I took the air sock down,” he said. Gene is extremely well qualified in the mechanical aspect of planes in addition to flying them. He holds an Air Frame and Power Plant (AFP) mechanics license. In 1976 he set up a program for North Idaho College in diesel mechanics and ran that for 16 years before retiring when he became eligible for social security in 1992. That diesel program still continues at N.I.C. He has a commercial pilots rating, a multi-engine rating, and a glider

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IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 15

rating. the bottom of the airplane and because I had a Gene bought his first plane over 60 years ago prop strike, it was a mandatory engine teardown to and says, “I had my second airplane before I had magnaflux the crank shaft for cracks. I had to buy my first wife. I’ve had many airplanes but only one a new crankshaft and prop but it’s all back together wife.” He laughs as he adds, “I tell people I was and I have another ten hours on it already. I just married twice, the first time and the last time. I screwed up on the landing. It was 64 years before was married for 19 years, two months and three I bent my first airplane. That was the first and I days.” That marriage hope the last one.” ended in divorce, perOver the years haps in part because Gene has worked a of his high energy levvariety of jobs involvel. Even today he only ing planes. He and sleeps from about midhis “lady friend” did night until 5:30 a.m. professional air show Over the interannouncing for about vening years, he has twenty years. Her last owned, “probably 24 or name is Branson, his 25 planes. Now I have is Soper, so they used a 1973 M4 Maule, the those initials and went last of the round tails. by the name of “BS It’s a beautiful plane Announcing.” Their Gene at his 1973 M4 Maule. “It’s a beautiful plane called a called a Strata-Rockmotto was, “You need Strata Rocket.” [Photo by Jack McNeel] et. It has a 210 hp BS at your show.” fuel-injected 6-cylinder Continental engine with a “We went all over the country,” he remembers. McCauley constant speed prop.” Gene purchased Gene also worked as a corporate pilot. “I flew it wrecked and then stripped it and totally rebuilt standby for three years with Bennett Lumber Co. it. in a Turbo-206. I didn’t like flying other people on Gene has had one accident over the years and their schedules. The responsibility is just too great. that was last fall. He explains, “I went into the Dr. However I did until I was 73 years old. When they Byrd strip (south of Sandpoint) in my Maule and found out I was 73 I couldn’t fly anymore (for them) didn’t allow for air at the end of the strip. I landed because they couldn’t get insurance on me after I six inches low and six feet short and wiped the was 70. I said ‘good, thank you’, bowed and went landing gear off and bent the prop. I had to rebuild out smiling.

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He also barn-stormed with the Billy B Flying Circus from the Henley Aerodrome north of Coeur d’Alene. “We would take all the antique airplanes and go to some other town for a parade or whatever city function they were having and we would fly over. If they had an airport we’d hop passengers. We had a ball. I was flying a 1928 Travel Air 4000. It would haul two passengers at a time. I’d make five trips an hour. One summer I made 985 takeoffs and landings. That’s sports flying but it’s also revenue.� Gene doesn’t know how many hours he’s logged flying planes. A few years ago he tried to research the hours and figured it was about 3,500 hours. “I’ve flown a lot since then,� he exclaimed. “I just tell people I have over 5,000 hours and let it go at that. My insurance company thinks I don’t fly much anymore because I just keep telling them I have 5,000 hours.� Becoming an octogenarian hasn’t slowed Gene in the least. He still flies frequently. He is a member of the UFOs and talks of “my very dear flying buddy who is 90� and still flying. In addition to

the M4 Maule he has an open cockpit bi-plane as well, both of which are in his hangar at the Coeur d’Alene Airport. A testament to Gene’s love of aviation is visible each year on December 17. “That’s Wright Brothers Day,� he explains “when I always try to do something. I don’t celebrate holidays or birthdays but I have a great fondness for the Wright Brothers.� If the weather is bad, he has even gone out and cranked up the plane, taken off from one end of the airport and landed, then turned around and flown back to the first end and put the plane away. Gene’s knowledge of the history surrounding the Kootenai County Airport led Airport Director Greg Delavan in 2002 to ask Gene to write a book documenting that history. The result came ten years later when the Museum of North Idaho Press printed The Sky’s The Limit, not only written by Gene but illustrated lavishly mostly with Gene’s photos. Gene was inducted into the Idaho Aviation Hall of Fame in 2010. ISI

Belly Dancing Keeps Educator in Shape Article & Photo By Cate Huisman Sandpoint native Sandy Maras is an educator at heart and a dancer in her soul. Professionally, she’s filled a half dozen roles in public schools around the state. But dancing was significant at the beginning of her career, and it has serendipitously re-entered her life now, a benefit of her latest (and she says last) placement in public education. Sandy grew up in Sandpoint, went to Washington Elementary School and Sandpoint High School, and then headed down to Moscow to study to be a teacher. She was certified to teach French and Spanish but also picked up a minor in dance that exposed her to modern, jazz, ballet, and ballroom. But when she saw a poster about belly dancing lessons, she couldn’t resist adding that to her repertoire. “It seemed intriguing to me; it was different from my formal training.� For the next several years, she taught dance, including belly dancing, part-time at North Idaho College in CDA while being a fulltime mom. She stopped dancing in the 1980s, as she began working with homeless families. Seeing the needs of homeless kids first hand, she found she wanted to go

into counseling. So she added studying to her duties as mom and her volunteer work, and she received a master’s degree in counseling from the University of Idaho in 1991. Thus armed with two marketable education degrees, Sandy began an odyssey of remarkable variety in the public education system. “I’ve never been in a job more than four years,� she points out. She taught French and Spanish at Coeur d’Alene High School, then held positions as elementary school counselor, high school counselor, career guidance program manager, tech-prep coordinator, executive director of a school service agency, and lone counselor for all the children in the 400-student Wilder School District west of Boise. Finally, she took on a shared principal position. In the process, she moved from the Panhandle to the Treasure Valley, picked up an education specialist degree and a PhD, and – in a massive 18-credit, one-year, four-university, online academic push, she completed the requirements for a literacy endorsement in 2009. Family brought Sandy back to Sandpoint in 2007 and ultimately to her position at Washington Elementary School in Sandpoint. “I started as principal exactly 50 years after I started first grade there.� And, a quarter-century after she’d given it up, belly dancing came back into her life as well. Shortly after her arrival at Washington, the school’s music teacher, Lynda Ryan, suggested that Sandy join her belly-dancing troupe. The invitation brought back memories of how much Sandy

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that it provides a great workout. “Every joint in your body gets moved,” states Sandy. “You do movements that you’d never do in real life.” At age 59, she is confident that her dancing keeps her arthritis at bay. “You sweat a lot,” she adds, during the fast movements, and the slow movements, while not having as great an aerobic demand, require more muscle tone. Balance is also enhanced. And then there is the social emotional benefit. “There’s a whole sisterhood thing to it,” Sandy points out. Members have to know each other well enough to read each other’s moves, and Friday night gatherings for practice include wine and munchies as well as rehearsal. Tribe Zaghareet performs “anywhere we can get a gig,” says Sandy. Given that she lives in the narrow Panhandle, that isn’t necessarily in Idaho. Symes Hot Springs in Montana is a favorite destination (they will perform there March 23, 2013) and the group participates annually at the Folklife Festival in Seattle. They also perform with the Society of Creative Anachronism in both Sandpoint and Spokane. All the staff at Washington School know that their principal is a belly dancer, and last year, on Principal’s Day, they all wore belly-dancer-style hip scarves. Evidently, they feel that their appealingly irreverent principal’s avocation is one worth supporting. ISI and her students had enjoyed belly dancing back in the 1970s. Among its many benefits, she recalled, “it takes a lot of discipline and work to be very good, but it’s something that the everyday person can pick up and enjoy, in a way that they don’t with the other kinds of dance.” The group, called Tribe Zaghareet, dances in American Tribal style, and includes dancers whose ages vary from the mid-30s to the mid-60s. During a dance, leadership rotates. “Someone dances a cue that she is taking the lead – the lowering of an arm, the flick of a head – that makes it look polished and choreographed, even though none of it is choreographed,” explains Sandy. Sometimes two or three members will do a duet or trio while the others play the zills (finger cymbals) that all dancers wear on their fingers. Another characteristic of belly dancing is bling. Most obvious are the clinking coins covering the dancers’ tops, all authentic currency from Afghanistan and Pakistan. (“Fake coins don’t have the same quality; it’s not real,” says Sandy.) For performances, she wears a belt covered with cowry shells and little mirrors and two colorful “25-yard skirts,” so called because each encompasses 25 yards of fabric. In addition to the bling, hairstyles and makeup are important for performances, and Sandy and her fellow dancers can take up to two hours to get themselves fully costumed and bedecked: Applying false eyelashes, painting toenails, braiding their hair and adding ribbons or false dreadlocks, and attaching flowers and feathers to parts of their anatomies. A further benefit is

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Funeral Planning - Creating a Smart End of Life Plan By Christopher Hill Like so many families, when we suffered the loss of my mother last year we faced the difficult decision of what to do next. Because we were never willing to accept this as a possible outcome, nor did we think about planning for this incomprehensible loss, we had no idea where to begin or who we could turn to. Most people tend to overlook one of the greatest gifts you will give your family, which is properly preparing them for the inevitable. At best, you might have started your estate planning process by creating a will or trust. However, the harsh reality is that approximately 70% of Americans have no form of estate plan. So by having a will or trust, you have clearly taken a step in the right direction toward preplanning your future financial wishes. The problem is this form of planning fails to accomplish the most important task, which is addressing your family’s immediate concerns. The person, or in most cases people, responsible for taking care of your final arrangements are usually forced to make extremely important decisions, as well as major financial purchases, within a small time frame... usually within 48 hours or so after your death. Of course, you cannot expect to alleviate fully the emotional and financial stresses of your loved ones during such a difficult time, but you can help them tremendously by having a plan that outlines your funeral wishes. Most financial professionals are realizing that an integral part of a sound financial and estate plan is taking care of your funeral services ahead of time. Funeral preplanning gives you the ability to choose your method of disposition, the exact types of services you want, and allows your family to focus more on things such as grieving and recovery. In addition, funeral preplanning is also a good thing for you because it allows you to make extremely important decisions through a calm and clear thought process. Emotionally, it is more likely that you will create a rational and logical end-of-life plan. When preplanning your funeral, here are several general guidelines to begin your preplanning process: • Visit various funeral homes and interview multiple funeral directors • Choose a funeral home and director where you think your family would be most comfortable • Consider bringing family members with you during this selection process • Be aware and informed of bereavement entitlements such as veterans, unions, fraternities, etc. • Consider religious and moral convictions, and discuss them with your family • Determine your method of disposition (burial, cemetery, entombment, cremation, etc.) • Plan your ceremony considering things like casket viewing, religious aspects, who should be included, etc. • Itemize your costs • The Federal Trade Commission offers a free funeral-planning guide titled “Caskets and Burial Vaults” (202-326-2222) which has made it easier for consumers to comparison shop. The FTC Funeral Rule requires funeral directors to give pricing in-

formation over the phone, as well as provide you with a readily available General Price List if you visit them in person. This FTC Funeral Rule also allows you to purchase caskets, which are the single largest funeral expense, from outside vendors without the threat of a carrying charge. For more information about The FTC Funeral Rule, you can visit www. ftc.gov. What About Paying For Funeral Expenses In Advance? Although planning your funeral arrangements in advance may help alleviate many of the details, prepaying (also known as prearranging) for your funeral services is a way of taking care of the actual expenses. Prepaying your funeral or cremation is one of the fastest growing, and most appreciated and accepted aspects of funeral planning. Similar to preplanning your funeral, paying your funeral expenses in advance is also becoming widely accepted by many financial professionals as a solid piece of a sound financial and estate plan. When prepaying your funeral plan, the most common and widely used strategies are savings and life insurance, mainly because they tend to be deemed the most reliable and available. However, there are several other strategies to consider when prepaying your funeral costs or expenses: Savings. Although many people choose to set aside savings to pay for funeral expenses, there are several reasons this does not always end up working out as originally planned. First, the savings can be depleted based on unexpected financial circumstances, such as health or financial issues. Second, these funds are not always readily available and liquid upon death due to the challenges and restrictions often found in estate planning. Third, the funds set aside can often be insufficient due to inflation and the rising cost of funeral expenses. Finally, it should be noted that savings are included in a part of one’s estate, and, thus, the taxable consequences can often come into play. Life Insurance. Term life insurance is widely considered a flexible, simple, and affordable way to pay for your final funeral expenses. Although term life insurance has a set term, or set number of years, it also has multiple uses in prepaying for your funeral. Because upon your death it becomes a liquid asset that is usually not part of your estate, it can be used for many things such as funeral, burial, cremation, liquidity, and many other things, including debts or obligations. In addition, there are some types of life insurance that allow the funds contributed to these policies (either in lump sum, monthly, quarterly, semiannually, or annually) to grow and accumulate as a cash value that can be accessed if necessary. Therefore, these policies cannot only be used for funeral expenses, but also for other financial planning options that may arise such as financial emergencies, college, etc. Funeral Insurance. Funeral insurance is an insurance policy that is specifically designed to cover any costs or expenses that are directly related to your funeral. If you purchase one of these policies, one of the options you have is to determine exactly which funeral costs or expenses are to be covered, such as flowers, burial plot, grave marker, and much more. Another option you have is for the policy to be paid out in a single lump sum, which can be used to cover your pre-determined costs or expenses, or simply help your loved ones financially as they plan for you.

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There are many insurance companies that offer funeral insurance packages, and certain funeral homes or funeral companies offer policies. Pre-Need Trust Agreements. Another alternative to prepaying your funeral is to consider a Pre-need trust agreement to pay for your costs or expenses. These trust accounts are typically funded with monthly payments that are invested

in a fund that is designed to grow over time. Although a trust account is designed to provide the potential for protection against inflation, it is not guaranteed to do so. In summary, although nobody likes to think or talk about dying, it is one of the facts of life. If you are trying to build a successful financial plan, the only way you can be sure your plan works

Ask Dr. Marion – Opening Yourself To New Situations By Marion Somers, PhD My father is 84 and doing very well, but I just don’t know where to start as a caregiver. If you had only one story to tell about your experiences with the elderly, what would it be? Frieda in California, 46 Thanks for asking, Frieda. It’s too difficult to pick out just one story, so I’ll tell the first one that comes to mind. As a professional Geriatric Care Manager for the last three decades, I have come across many unique situations that you just can’t make up. One particular circumstance involved an elderly woman I’ll call Susanna. She came into my life 16 years ago as a frail but independent 74-year-old woman who needed a Geriatric Care Manager to help her maintain her quality of life. Sadly, she didn’t have any other relatives who could serve in that role. We quickly hit it off, and after she got to know me well and trust was established, she revealed some charming, intimate stories of her life. Susanna was depressed and feeling adrift because Norma, her friend of 22 years, had died recently. Susanna told me how their friendship had begun with a strange peculiarity. Norma had suffered with the physical anomaly of having feet that were different sizes. When she was a child, Norma’s mother would buy her shoes in the larger size and then stuff the smaller foot’s shoe with newspaper or cloth. Norma was acutely aware of this situation, especially in the gym or in swim class. She went on to have an ordinary professional life and a successful career, but when she wanted to buy shoes, she had to buy two pairs, one size eight and one size 9, so that she could be comfortable. Finally, one day Norma realized that there might be some other woman in the world who had the same problem, but on opposite feet. So she put an ad in the local newspaper, more as a lark than anything else. Susanna was shocked when

she saw the ad, and she quickly responded. They met days later, and a fast friendship was formed. It turned out they had similar interests, like going to the theater and the movies, especially to see comedies. Susanna and Norma even became traveling companions. They were also both single and labeled “spinsters.” And they were each proud that they had enjoyed successful professional lives in place of a family life. Most importantly, what had been cause for embarrassment was now a source of great fun. Shopping for shoes became a thrilling activity. They’d hunt everywhere for two pairs of shoes that they both liked and could buy in the two correct sizes. Then they’d each take home the shoes that were right for them. Susanna said it was like gambling because they were beating the odds every time they could find and agree on the right two pairs of the same style shoe. They quickly became the family that neither of them had ever enjoyed. Susanna and Norma’s warm and supportive friendship came about in a strange way, didn’t it? One never knows how having something in common with someone could lead to life’s great rewards. What might be your sore point could be a way to relate to someone else, so don’t be afraid to open yourself up to meeting new people. Even if you feel alone, there could be someone out there that fits you perfectly. Marion Somers, PhD, is the author of Elder Care Made Easier and has over 40 years of experience as a geriatric care manager, caregiver, speaker, and expert in all things elder care. She offers practical tools, solutions, and advice to help caregivers everywhere through her book, web site, iPhone apps (Elder 411/911), cross-country speaking tours, and more. Visit www.DrMarion.com for more information. ISI

Quickest Trooper in the West In most of the United States, there is a policy of checking on any stalled vehicle on the highway when temperatures drop to single digits or below. About 3 am one very cold morning, Idaho State Trooper Allan Nixon #658 responded to a call about a car off the shoulder of the road outside of Pocatello. He located the car, stuck in deep snow with the engine still running. Pulling in behind the car with his emergency lights on, the trooper walked to the driver’s door to find an older man passed out behind the wheel with a nearly empty vodka bottle on the seat beside him. The driver came awake when the trooper tapped on the window. Seeing the rotating lights in his rearview mirror and the state trooper standing next to his car, the man panicked. He jerked the gearshift into “drive” and hit the gas. The car’s speedometer was showing 20, 30, 40, then 50 MPH, but it was still stuck in the snow, wheels spinning. Trooper Nixon, having a sense of humor, began running in place next to the speeding (but stationary) car. The driver was totally freaking thinking the trooper was actually keeping up with him. This went on for about 30 seconds and then the trooper yelled, “Pull Over!” The man nodded, turned his wheel, and stopped the engine. Needless to say, the man from Utah was arrested and probably is still shaking his head over the state trooper in Idaho who could run 50 MPH. Who says troopers don’t have a sense of humor? ISI

IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 19

smoothly and efficiently is to be proactive about your planning process. This is particularly true and necessary when creating a proper plan of succession, which I firmly believe should include an end-of-life plan. Article Source: http://EzineArticles. com/2297355. ISI

PAGE 20 IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT

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Kidney transplant gives Hal Davison a second chance By Dianna Troyer At Valentine’s Day, Hal Davison celebrates receiving the ultimate expression of unconditional love, a donated kidney that has given him a second chance at life and has allowed him to watch his daughters grow up. “It’s the gift of life for sure,” says Hal, 55, the religious activity coordinator at the Pocatello Women’s Correctional Center. Plagued with a hereditary illness called polycystic kidney disease, Hal had regular checkups and knew he would one day need a transplant. “Back in 2004, blood tests showed my creatinine levels were getting too high, indicating my kidneys weren’t functioning well,” recalls Hal, who lives in Moore. He and his wife, Vicki, turned to a friend, Don Northrop of Arco, for advice because Don had a kidney transplanted several years earlier at Swedish Medical Center in Seattle. “They have a 100 percent success rate for transplant patients two years after surgery. My wife said, ‘That’s where you’re going.’ At the time, our three girls were young, and she wanted to make sure they’d grow up with a father.”

In need of a compatible kidney, Hal did not “Doctors showed me a picture of it,” he recalls. have far to look. “A normal kidney is the size of your fist, and mine “I had so many people volunteer,” he recalls. was as big as a football and had to be held in two “I was so grateful for the support system I had hands. It was full of cysts.” from family and friends.” When Hal was out of surgery, nurses enThe best match was his niece’s husband, couraged him to walk the same day. “It was so Robert Baxter, who lived in Moore at the time. painful, and my legs were really weak,” he says. “Hal has three awe“Besides that, I was a some daughters, and I walking staple. When couldn’t imagine them my kidney was removed growing up without their in October, 44 staples dad,” says Robert, a serwere put in across my vice manager at Carl’s torso. When I got my Inc. in Idaho Falls. “I’m new kidney, 27 staples glad I did it. I was 22 were put in.” at the time, so I healed Despite the pain, he quickly and was ready to persevered and walked come home a few days a little farther every after surgery.” day. After staying three Hal advises people weeks in the hospital, to become organ dohe and Vicki moved to nors, indicating their Hal and Vicki Davison pose with their daugh- apartment housing for wishes on their driver’s ters for a Christmas photos. From left, are long-term patients, so Destini, Shelby, and Kayli. [Photo courtesy doctors could monitor license. “A friend here at work of Hal Davison] his progress. had his little boy die in a When Hal was discar accident, and the boy’s organs helped 13 dif- charged on Dec. 23, employees who cared for ferent people,” says Hal, an organ donor. “Since him gave him a keepsake, a kidney-shaped pillow my transplant, the only organs I can give are my they had all signed. Back home for the holidays, eyes.” Hal knew exactly what he wanted for a meal. Hal takes anti-rejection medications twice a “To celebrate, I finally had some of that elk for day, in the morning and before bed, to ensure his Christmas dinner.” kidney keeps functioning. Hal recovered well and went back to work at “I’ll be on meds the rest of my life, but that’s the prison. “I was a guard when I started in 1998, fine with me.” then switched to coordinating religious activities Every six months, when Hal gets checkups for inmates and helping meet their spiritual needs. at the Boise VA Medical Center, he’s reminded I love my job.” of his transplant surgery and a few dates. Every year on Nov. 1, Hal and Robert call “On October 1, 2004, I went to Seattle, and each other to celebrate the anniversary of his doctors removed one kidney and sent me back transplant. “We laugh because if he gets annoyed home for a month,” he recalls. “You can survive with me, he jokes that he wants his kidney back.” on one kidney.” Since his transplant, Hal says he teases He followed his doctors’ advice. He didn’t eat friends and his wife about the rigorous physical protein during that time or lift anything heavier therapy they endured after having surgery on than a coffee cup. shoulders, hips, and knees. “The highlight of that month was going elk “I had it easy. All I had to do for my recovery hunting up Antelope with my brother-in-law. I got was to walk. a spike, and he helped me load it and get it home. “Because of the transplant, I’ve been able to I had to wait two months, though, to have some.” watch our daughters grow up,” Hal says of DesIn late October, Hal, Robert, and their wives tini, 20, Shelbi, 18, who both attend Idaho State traveled to Seattle, leaving their children with Hal’s University, and 14-year-old Kayli, a freshman at mother, Jewell Davison of Moore. Butte County High School. “We were so grateful for that,” recalls Hal. “My If you are thinking about becoming an organ mom had a houseful.” donor, Hal suggests, “Talk it over with your family On Nov. 1, one of Robert’s kidneys was trans- and make sure they support your decision and just planted into Hal, who was later stunned at the size do it.” ISI of his dysfunctional kidney.

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Pill Splitting: When it’s safe, and when it isn’t By Jim Miller Splitting your pills – literally cutting them in half – is a simple way to save money on your prescription drugs but be sure you talk to your doctor first, because not all pills can be split. Here is what you should know. Savings and Safety - The reason pill splitting is such a cost cutter is a quirk in the way drugs are manufactured and priced. A pill that is twice as strong as another may not be twice the price. In fact, it is usually about the same price. So, buying a double-strength dose and cutting it in half may allow you to get two months worth of medicine for the price of one. But is it safe? As long as your doctor agrees that splitting your pills is okay for you, you learn how to do it properly, and you split only pills that can be split, there is really no danger. What to Do - If you’re interested in pill splitting, the first step is to talk to your doctor or pharmacist to find out if any of the medicines you use can be safely split. It is also important to find out whether splitting them will save you enough money to justify the hassle. The pills that are easiest to split are those with a score down the middle. However, not every pill that is scored is meant to be split. Pills that are most commonly split include: • Cholesterol lowering drugs, like Crestor, Lipitor, and Pravachol • Antidepressants, like Celexa, Paxil, and Zoloft • High blood pressure medicines like, Monopril, Prinivil, Univasc, Zestril, Avapro, and Cozaar • Erectile dysfunction pills, like Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra Having the right equipment helps too. Do not use a knife to cut your pills in half. It can cause you to split them unevenly resulting in two pieces

with very different dosages, which can be dangerous. Purchase a proper pill cutter. They only cost around $5 to $10 and are available at most pharmacies and large discount stores. For convenience, you might be tempted to split the whole bottle of pills at once. But check with your doctor first. It is possible that exposing the interior of the pills to the air could reduce their effectiveness. It is also important to know that pills are only safely split in half, and never into smaller portions such as into thirds or quarters. Unsafe Splitting - Many medicines, because of their ingredients or design, cannot be split safely. Here is a list of pills that should not be split: • Blood thinners (Coumadin, warfarin) • Chemotherapy drugs • Anti-seizure medicines • Birth control pills • Capsules of any kind that contain powders or gels • Pills with a hard outside coating • Extended-release pills that deliver medication over time in your body • Pills that are coated to protect your stomach • Pills that crumble easily, irritate your mouth, or taste bitter Again, your doctor or pharmacist will know which drugs can and cannot be split. If you are taking a medicine that can be split, you will need to get a prescription from your doctor for twice the dosage you need. Then you can start splitting and saving safely. Send your senior questions to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book. ISI

Colon cancer awareness: Colon cancer can be prevented March is colon cancer awareness month, and we would like to share some information all Idahoans should know about this deadly disease. Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States and is the second leading cause of cancer death in men and women combined, killing almost 50,000 people each year. Ninety percent of new cases and 95% of deaths from colorectal cancer occur in people 50 or older. The good news is that colon cancer rates in the United States have decreased by more than 10% over the past 5 years largely because of increased awareness and use of colon cancer screening. Unfortunately, less than half of Idahoans who should have routine screening are currently being screened. Colonoscopy is the most effective method used for colon cancer detection, screening, and prevention, because most colon cancer starts as a benign growth called a polyp. Colonoscopy is used to detect and remove precancerous polyps before they become cancer. Most colon cancer can be cured if detected early, however once the cancer spreads many are incurable. Early detection is vital. Risk factors for colon cancer include: age over 50, personal history of colon polyps, family history of colon cancer or colon polyps , chronic inflammation of the colon (ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease), cigarette smoking, inactivity, and obesity. Who should have colonoscopy? • Anyone 50 or older • Anyone with a family history of colon cancer or colon polyps in close relatives. • Symptoms that might suggest colon cancer such as change in bowel habits, diarrhea, constipation, blood in stool, weight loss, abdominal pain or bloating, weakness, or fatigue. These symptoms can also be associated with many other health conditions and should be discussed with your health care provider. Remember. Be aware. Colon cancer is preventable. Ask your health care provider about colon cancer screening. Get the test. Get the polyp. Get the cure. ISI

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Idaho eye doctors help legally blind to see Local low vision doctor helps those with vision impairment to keep reading and driving. retired rancher from Utah, approached the Low By Elena Lomabardi Just because you have macular degeneration Vision Clinic last February. “I could not read the street signs soon enough (or other vision-limiting conditions) doesn’t always when driving, and I couldn’t read my morning mean you must give up driving or reading. Ever look through a pair of field glasses or paper.” He was fit with bioptic telebinoculars? Things look bigger scope glasses. “Amazing,” says and closer, and much easier Ross, “to be able to see things to see. Dr. Jared L. Cooper far away again. Even the televiof Southern Idaho/Utah and sion is so much better now.” He Dr. Cheryl Dumont of Coeur was also provided with a Clear d’Alene are using miniaturized Image Microscope glasses for binoculars or telescopes to help reading the newspaper. people who have lost vision from “Telescopic glasses usually macular degeneration or other cost over $2000,” says Dr. Cooeye conditions. per, “especially if we fabricate “Some of my patients consider me the last stop for people who have vision them with an automatic sunglass.” Not all low vision devices are that expensive loss”, says Dr. Cooper, a low vision optometrist who limits his practice to visually impaired patients in - reading glasses start at $500 and hand magnifiers under $100. Every case is different because his offices throughout Southern Idaho. “People don’t know that there are doctors who people have different levels of vision and different are very experienced in low vision care, many of desires. Call Dr. Cooper or Dr. Dumont for a free my patients have been told that there was nothing left that they could do to improve their vision, telephone interview at 800-451-2015 or visit Dr. Cooper on the Internet at www.drjaredcooper.com. fortunately this is usually not the case.” Dr. Jared L. Cooper Idaho License #ODP“My job is to figure out everything and anything possible to keep a person functioning.” said Dr. 100238. Cooper. “Even if it’s driving”. A patient of Dr. Cooper, Ross Johnson, 73 a

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Focus on Your Kidneys During National Kidney Month What you do not know can’t hurt – right? Wrong, says the National Kidney Foundation of Utah & Idaho. More than 26 million Americans – 1 in 9 adults – suffer from chronic kidney disease, millions more are at risk, yet most don’t know it. Because kidney disease often has no symptoms, it could be wreaking havoc without causing any pain. Due to the spiraling rates of the two leading causes – diabetes and high blood pressure – kidney disease is on the rise, yet prevention is possible. Proper diet, weight loss, even mild exercise, control of blood pressure, and blood sugar can all make a difference; and anyone who is at risk should be tested with simple blood and urine tests. In the state of Idaho, almost 1 in 3 adults has been diagnosed with high blood pressure, making them at high risk for kidney disease – a connection that is often not made. The kidneys work 24/7 to filter 200 liters of blood each day, removing two liters of toxins, wastes, and water in the process. March is National Kidney Month and the National Kidney Foundation of Utah & Idaho is urging all Idahoans to acquaint themselves with this vital pair of organs. To get started, let’s put to rest some rumors about the kidneys? • The kidneys just clean the blood. FALSE! Filtering the blood by removing waste products and creating urine is just one major function of the kidneys. They also help the body maintain a stable chemical balance of salt, potassium, and acid. They produce hormones that stimulate red blood cell production and help regulate blood pressure. • If you have kidney disease you must go on dialysis. FALSE! People with end stage renal disease (ESRD), also known as stage 5 kidney disease, need to begin dialysis or receive a kidney transplant to survive. But more than 26 million Americans are currently living with kidney disease and the majority of them are not on dialysis. Unfortunately, many with early stages of kidney disease do not know they have it. That is why it is sometimes referred to as a silent killer. • Kidney disease is a manageable condition. TRUE! Proper diagnosis and treatment can prevent and slow kidney disease from progressing to kidney failure. Proper diet, weight loss, even minimal exercise, control of blood pressure and blood sugar can all make a difference. • If you experience lower back pain, it’s probably kidney disease. FALSE! Pain is not common with kidney disease. Lower back pain often accompanies kidney infections, blockages, and kidney stones. Muscular and arthritic pains are more common causes of back pain, but it’s always best to see your physician to be sure. • Kidney disease affects certain people more than others. TRUE! Anyone can get chronic kidney disease at any age; however, some people

are more likely than others are. You may have an increased risk for kidney disease if you are older, have diabetes, have high blood pressure, have a family member who has chronic kidney disease, are an African American, Hispanic American, Asian, Pacific Islander, or American Indian. If you are in one of these groups, ask your doctor about being tested. • It’s possible to recover from a kidney injury. TRUE! When properly diagnosed and treated, it’s possible to recover from acute injury to the kidneys. It’s important to note that acute kidney injury places people at a higher risk for developing kidney disease later. Certain medications that are cleared by the kidneys, such as some painkillers, should be avoided. There are proactive steps you can take to reduce your risk. • Maintain a healthy weight. Obesity directly causes kidney disease because the kidneys have to work harder to filter out toxins and meet the metabolic demands of the increased body mass index (BMI) in obese individuals. This is called hyperfiltration and in the long term, it is associated with increased risk of developing kidney disease. Indirectly, obesity increases the major kidney disease risk factors – Type 2 Diabetes and high blood pressure. • Exercise regularly. It’s true; exercise does a body good – including

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(Cont’d from p. 23) your kidneys. Aim to get 30 minutes of physical activity at least 5 times a week. Of that, 10 minutes at least 2 or 3 times a week should include light weight training. If you have joint issues, swimming is a good option. Small lifestyle tweaks such as walking more and taking the stairs can have a big impact on your health over time. • Eat a balanced, low-salt diet. Diets high in sodium increase blood pressure levels. High blood pressure damages the kidneys over time, and is a leading cause of kidney failure. Avoid or limit high calorie drinks: soda, fruit punch and juices, some coffee drinks and alcohol. A bonus to drinking lots of water? It helps prevent painful kidney stones. • Quit smoking. You’ve heard this a million times, but there’s a good reason. Smoking causes diseases in every organ of the body, including the kidneys! Smoking causes restriction of blood vessels, and smokers are more likely to have protein in the urine, an early sign of kidney damage.

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FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013

• Avoid long-term use of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (over-the-counter painkillers, known as NSAIDS). Long-term use of over-the-counter painkillers, especially in high doses, has a harmful effect on kidney tissue and structures. These drugs can also reduce the blood flow to the kidney. Follow directions given, they are there for a reason.

Early detection, medical intervention, and lifestyle changes if needed are the keys to slowing or stopping the progression of kidney disease. The National Kidney Foundation of Utah & Idaho conducts its Kidney Early Evaluation Program (KEEP), a FREE early detection screening in cities in Idaho. To find out dates and locations, go to www.kidneyut.org or call 800-869-5277. ISI

National Kidney Foundation of Idaho Offers FREE Kidney Screenings Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is at its highest level in history because the two leading causes of kidney failure – diabetes and high blood pressure – have become epidemic. Symptoms of kidney failure are silent. There is no cure for CKD. Early detection, medical intervention, and/ or lifestyle changes are the keys to slow or stop the progression of CKD. For these reasons, the National Kidney Foundation of Idaho conducts its Kidney Early Evaluation Program (KEEP), a free, early detection screening for adults at risk. KEEP offers over $200 worth of free testing and provides participants with measurements and the opportunity to discuss their health and review

results with an on-site physician. “We know that if we educate the at-risk public, they can get the care and make the changes that will save them from going into kidney failure,� says Sharon Miller, KEEP Director. “KEEP can save thousands of dollars in health care (dialysis and/or transplant) if CKD is diagnosed and treated at early stages.� If you, your parents or siblings have diabetes, high blood pressure, or kidney disease, you should attend a free KEEP screening. Go to www.kidneyut.org/events or call 800-869-5277 to find out when and where the next KEEP screening will be in your area. ISI

The Benefits of Therapeutic Massage More and more seniors are discovering the significant benefits of improved health, relaxation, and vitality by therapeutic massage. With regular massage, an individual may better maintain an active social life, manage their physical challenges, and continue to enjoy all the activities that give life satisfaction and meaning. As each year passes, our body gradually loses its ability to spring back from the wear and tear of daily living. Research shows that massage reduces muscle tension, increases circulation, and calms the nervous system. These effects give rise to a wide variety of benefits, such as: • Improved posture and coordination • Enhanced restful sleep • Improved health and mobility of joints • Relief of itchy, dry skin • Reduced swelling from excess water reten-

tion • Faster healing from injuries or surgery • Easier breathing • Increased vitality, energy and mental alertness The ultimate benefit is massage can be affordable. The American Institute of Clinical Massage (AiCM) in Post Falls has a wellrespected clinic offering a 55-minute massage for $22.50 for adults over 60 years. Save more by purchasing a Loyalty Card for $100. This gets you five massages ($20 per massage). Please contact us at 208-773-5890 to schedule an appointment. A list of our services appears at www.highlandsdayspa. com/aicm. ISI

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Aerobic Exercise For A Healthier Brain By Edward A. Joseph In The Invisible Gorilla: How Our Intuitions Deceive Us, authors Christopher Chabris and Daniel Simons assert, “It might seem counterintuitive, but the best thing you can do to preserve and maintain mental abilities may have little to do with cognition at all.” Like most people, I noticed a decline in my cognitive skills as I aged, especially when I broke the Medicare barrier. Some examples: my ability to pay attention; my slowness in retrieving information; my difficulty in quickly switching from one task to another. And like most people, I have been enticed to “exercise my brain” by a variety of entrepreneurs, including Mozart CD sellers, video game purveyors, and chess, crossword, and Sudoku publishers. As Chabris and Simons noted, there have

been scientific studies into the mental benefits of playing chess, listening to Mozart CDs, and using certain software programs like Brain Age, Medal of Honor, Tetris, or Rise of Nations. And a number of these studies do show you can improve a specific skill, say your ability to pay attention, by “exercising your brain” – but it requires considerable time and effort and the specific skill enhanced is not necessarily transferable to other mental tasks. For example, if you spend hours doing Sudoku puzzles you will get better at doing them, but where you put your car keys may still be a problem. As we age some loss of cognitive functioning is inevitable, but Chabris and Simons emphasize that there is one activity for which there is significant scientific evidence for a “healthier and younger” brain: aerobic exercise. Doing an aerobic exercise, i.e., an activity that increases the heartbeat and the supply of oxygen to the body, for as little as 30 minutes three times a week can lead to clear improvement in doing mental tasks, especially in what are called “executive functions” like planning and multitasking. In addition, Chabris and Simmons mention one study where people walking aerobically for 45 minutes three days a week actually preserved

more gray matter in their frontal brain regions compared to another group of people that had only done stretching and toning exercises for the same amount of time. After learning about the benefits of aerobic exercise for a healthier and younger brain, it was a “no brainer” that I should start doing something with my new knowledge. The thought of climbing mountains, running marathons, or speed racing on a bike, however, had me reaching for my Sudoku book. I decided on walking three days a week. I also added small “aerobic bursts” by going up stairs in a vigorous manner or occasionally jogging in place for a minute or two. I still do Sudoku and crossword puzzles for enjoyment, but for my brain health, I have gone aerobic. Walking vigorously on a regular basis has also improved my mood, and of course, it is good for the heart. Aerobic exercise for a better mood, healthier heart, and healthier brain: What’s not to like? After checking with your doctor that it is safe for you to do an aerobic exercise, get that heartbeat going and oxygen flowing. Contact the author at edwardajoseph@optonline. net/. ISI

Heart Attack Leading Cause of Death in Women: Memorize These Life-Saving Tips By Tait Trussell It is not breast cancer, or any other cancer that kills the most American women. Coronary heart disease causes a heart attack, the leading cause of death for women. And as women grow older, their risk of heart attack and stroke increase, according to the American Heart Association. A middle-age nurse friend passed along to me this vivid description of her heart attack. She wrote, “Women rarely have the same symptoms men have when experiencing a heart attack. You know, the sudden stabbing pain in the chest, the cold sweat, grabbing the chest, and dropping to the floor. “About 10:30 one night, I was sitting all snuggly and warm on a cold evening, with my purring cat in my lap, reading an interesting story, and actually thinking, ‘Aah, this is the life, all cozy and warm in my soft, cushy Lazy Boy with my feet propped up.’

“A moment later, I felt that awful sensation of indigestion, when you’ve been in a hurry and grabbed a bite of sandwich and washed it down with a dash of water. The hurried bite seems to feel like you have swallowed a golf ball going down the esophagus in slow motion. It is most uncomfortable. You realize you should not have gulped it down so fast. “This was my initial sensation. The only trouble was I had not taken a bite of anything since about 5 p.m. “After it seemed to subside, the next sensation was like little squeezing motions that seemed to be racing up my spine. It was probably aorta spasms gaining speed as they continued racing up and under my sternum, where one presses rhythmically when administering CPR. “This fascinating process continued on into my throat and branched out into both jaws. Ah ha! Now I stopped puzzling about what was happening. We all have read and/or heard about pain in the jaws being one of the signals of a MI happening - haven’t we? I said aloud to the cat and myself, ‘Dear God, I think I’m having a heart attack!’ “I lowered the footrest, dumping the cat from my lap, started to take a step and fell on the floor instead. I thought to myself, if this is a heart attack, I should not be walking into the next room where the phone is or anywhere else. On the other hand, if I do not, nobody will know that I need help, and if I wait any longer, I may not be able to get up. “I pulled myself up with the arms of the chair,

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walked slowly into the next room, and dialed the paramedics. I told them I thought I was having a heart attack due to the pressure under the sternum and radiating into my jaws. She said she was sending the paramedics, asked if the front door was near to me, and to unbolt it, then lie on the floor where they could see me. “I unlocked the door, then lay down on the floor and lost consciousness. I do not remember the medics coming in, lifting me on a gurney or getting me into their ambulance, or hearing the call they made to St. Jude ER. “I did awaken briefly and saw the radiologist. I nodded off again, not waking until the cardiologist had already threaded the tiny angiogram balloon up my femoral artery into the aorta and into my heart where they installed two side-by-side stents to hold open my right coronary artery. My heart had stopped somewhere between my arrival and

the procedure. “Why have I written all this to you? Because I want you to know what I learned first hand: 1. “Be aware that something very different is happening to your body. Many women commonly mistake an MI for indigestion. Some take Maalox, go to bed, and never wake up. 2. “Call the paramedics. And if you can, take an aspirin. Ladies, time is of the essence. Do not try to drive yourself to the ER. 3. “Do not call your doctor. He does not know where you live, and if it is at night, you will not reach him anyway. If it’s daytime, his assistant will tell you to call the paramedics. The paramedics have the oxygen that you need ASAP. 4. “MIs are usually caused by long-term stress and inflammation in the body, which dumps deadly hormones into your system. The more we know the better chance we have to survive.” ISI

Who takes care of the caregivers? By Susan Frances Bonner, RN, BSN Although there are differences in the definitions of “caretaker” and “caregiver,” the terms are frequently used interchangeably. As a nurse, I had never considered myself a caregiver. After all, my chosen profession was one of service, to help people and therefore I considered myself more of a caretaker. That was until my husband became chronically ill with anklyosing spondilitits, fibromyalgia, and chronic fatigue. Then “caregiver” took on a whole new meaning. I realized that his physician and staff were outside support and that was it. After getting home from a diagnostic test, minor surgery, or an office visit, I was all he had. After getting off the phone with his doctors’ nurse, because he had a reaction to one of the new medications he was trying, I was the only one to monitor him, I had to adjust his medication, and I had to document any changes. I was all he had. Of course, my nursing skills jumped right into the fray with both feet, but it was an exhausting endeavor, even for me. This situation forced me to examine my role not only as a nurse, but also as a caregiver. Using our situation as an example, my husband and I do not have friends or family nearby, my husband is fairly young, and can function except when he has a spike in his disease process. Although that can happen at any time, there is no need for 24-hour care. We manage his care together, with collaboration of his physician and staff. Since my husband is the patient, I am the primary caregiver and I am the one who experiences the demands of care giving. It then falls to the caregiver, friends, family, and medical professionals to determine caregiver stress. Some important questions to ask follow. Does the caregiver seem tired and lacking the inability to concentrate? Is the caregiver overly worried about the patient? Does the caregiver experience back, neck, or headache pain? Has the caregiver experienced any weight changes? Does the caregiver have problems sleeping? Does the caregiver eat regular meals? In exploring these questions about the caregiver’s health and coping skills, be very gentle. Caregivers may tend to be protective and guarded, since many are imbued with a strong sense of independence and toughness such that they are indestructible and can handle any situation. It is important to remind the caregiver that they have to stay physically and mentally rested in order to take care of their precious charge. Help them with coping strategies, which can include: • Helping them learn how to get enough sleep, i.e. taking naps. • Finding ways for them to manage their time better, such as using check lists to manage their

IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 27

tasks. A checklist will also boost their self-esteem and they can visualize their accomplishments. • Encouraging caregivers to pursue their hobbies and an exercise regimen to fit their needs. Leaving the house will do wonders for their mental and physical health.

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• Learn about community resources and respite relief for the caregiver. Some web sites to visit for more information include; www.longtermcarelink.net, www.strengthforcaring.com, and www.workingcaregiver.com. So, who cares for the caregivers? Unfortunately, “we the caregiversâ€? have to take control of ourselves. Fortunately, there are many resources to help us. We must not be ashamed to reach out

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Submitted by Julie Hollar-Brantley (author unknown) Your fences need to be horse-high, pig-tight, and bull-strong. Keep skunks and bankers at a distance. Life is simpler when you plow around the stump. A bumblebee is considerably faster than a John Deere tractor. Words that soak into your ears are whispered... not yelled. Meanness does not just happen overnight. Forgive your enemies; it messes up their heads. Do not corner something that you know is meaner than you are. It doesn’t take a very big person to carry a

grudge. You cannot unsay a cruel word. Every path has a few puddles. When you wallow with pigs, expect to get dirty. The best sermons are lived, not preached. Most of the stuff people worry about isn’t gonna happen anyway. Don’t judge folks by their relatives. Remember that silence is sometimes the best answer. Live a good, honorable life... Then when you get older and think back, you’ll enjoy it a second time. Don’t interfere with somethin’ that isn’t bothering you. Timing has a lot to do with the outcome of a rain dance. ISI

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to family members, friends, medical personnel, and community services. After all, being a caregiver is a challenging role, and caregivers must be ever vigilant of taking care of themselves so they can take care of others. Susan Frances Bonner, RN, BSN, is the author of Opening A Registered Nurses Eyes; A life Altering Journey Across North America. ISI

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My 76-year-old father used to laugh all the time, but ever since he started having problems with his health, he stopped smiling and laughing. How can I get him laughing again? Craig in Texas, 52 I use a concept called humor therapy quite often since it has proven to be a very effective device for most of my elderly clients. Good things happen when someone enjoys a belly laugh. It’s like an internal massage for the soul. Humor can take your father away from his aches and pains and concerns, even if it’s just for a moment. That should be the goal of any caregiver. Each person is different, so you have to read the situation. There is no one-way to get someone to laugh again, but it usually works if you draw on his or her past likes. For example, one of my clients was a big Lucile Ball fan, so I bought her a compilation DVD of old I Love Lucy shows. We made a date to watch them, and then sat there laughing together for hours, even though we’d both seen

the episodes more than a few times before. Another one of my clients used to love telling jokes, so I bought him a joke book. We spent a good part of one day reading the book. From then on, he would have a joke or two to tell me every time I visited, and the jokes always lifted his spirits. We also watched standup comedy shows on cable television. So try using humor therapy. I’m sure your father will be smiling again in no time. It’ll also provide you with some lighthearted moments, and I know you probably need that as well right now. Dr. Marion (Marion Somers, PhD) is the author of Elder Care Made Easier and has over 40 years of experience as a geriatric care manager, caregiver, speaker, and expert in all things elder care. She offers practical tools, solutions, and advice to help caregivers everywhere through her book, web site, iPhone apps (Elder 411/911), cross-country speaking tours, and more. Visit www.DrMarion.com for more information. MSN

Dehydration: A potentially serious medical condition for all ages By Susan Frances Bonner, RN BSN “Water, water, everywhere, nor any drop to drink.� That famous line from The Rime of the Ancient Mariner by Samuel Taylor Coleridge is an appropriate place to start when talking about an insidious medical condition known as Dehydration. This illness is unique because it can be chronic (ongoing), acute (happen suddenly), and can strike anyone at any age. Whether you are in a hospital setting, picnicking with the family, or hiking that favorite trail, there is no setting that dehydration cannot and will not raise its ugly head. And although it is associated with heat and the summer months, winter weather can also spawn this illness. Dehydration occurs when more water is moving out of our cells and then out of our bodies than the amount of water we take in through drinking. Causes of dehydration include diarrhea, vomiting, sweating, uncontrolled diabetes, excessive and prolonged sweating, frequent urination, and severe burns. Infants and young

children, the elderly, people with chronic illnesses, people living at higher altitudes, people who are working in hot, humid conditions as well as in extreme cold, and endurance athletes are more susceptible to dehydration than others. While it might seem counterintuitive that a person could become dehydrated in humid conditions, remember that sweat can’t evaporate and cool you as quickly as it normally does, and this can lead to an increased body temperature and the need for more fluids. The three levels of dehydration are mild, moderate, and severe. Below is a list of signs and symptoms of the levels of dehydration. Signs of mild dehydration include thirst, trouble concentrating, fatigue, constipation, depression, and aggravation. Signs of moderate dehydration (may require medical attention) include headache, flushed skin, fatigue, dizziness; nausea; weakness, tingling in limbs, and rapid breathing. Signs of severe dehydration (requires immediate medical attention) include difficulty moving, swollen tongue, difficulty swallowing, numbness, vision problems, being generally incapacitated, confusion, cramps, and kidney failure leading to death. While this subject may seem dry (no pun intended), dehydration is a potentially life threatening illness that is largely easy to avoid. The best way to treat dehydration is by prevention. Anticipate the need for increased fluid intake by taking extra water to all outdoor events and work

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013

where increased sweating, activity, and heat stress will increase fluid losses. Encourage athletes and outdoor workers to replace fluids at a rate that equals the loss. Avoid exercise and exposure during high heat index days. Listen to weather forecasts, and plan events that must occur outside during times when temperatures are cooler. Ensure that older people, infants, and children have adequate drinking water or fluids available and assist them as necessary. Make sure that any incapacitated or impaired person is encouraged to

IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 29

drink and provided with adequate fluids. Sip small amounts of water. Drink carbohydrate/electrolyte-containing drinks. Good choices are sports drinks such as Gatorade or prepared replacement solutions (Pedialyte). Suck on popsicles made from juices and sports drinks. Remember our bodies are 75% water, which is somewhat ironic. And even though the first sign of mild dehydration is thirst, it is only a signal of the body’s need for water. Thirst is often satisfied

while the body is still slightly dehydrated. This is especially true in cool climates. Tests by the U.S. Army in cold climates have shown that drinking only when thirsty produces a continuously dehydrated state. Remember too that too much or too little water can kill so maintain the proper balance for good health and comfort. Susan Frances Bonner is the author of Opening a Registered Nurse’s Eyes; A Life Altering Journey Across North America. ISI

Medical Alert Devices That Can Help Keep You Safe By Jim Miller There’s a wide variety of medical alert systems on the market today that can help keep people safe, while living in their own home. Here’s a breakdown of some different styles and prices to help you choose. Monitored Alerts – The most popular medical alert systems available today are the ones that will connect to a 24-hour emergency monitoring service when she needs help. These units come with waterproof “SOS” buttons – typically in the form of a necklace pendent or bracelet – and a base station that connects to her home phone line. At the press of a button, your mom could call and talk to a trained operator through the system’s base station receiver, which works like a powerful speakerphone. The operator will find out what’s wrong, and will notify family members, a neighbor, friend, or emergency services as needed. If you’re interested in this type of alert, there are literally dozens of services to choose from. One of the most widely used is the Philips Lifeline Medical Alert Service (lifelinesys.com, 800-3803111) which costs $35 per month, plus an $82 start-up fee. Phillips also offers a new Auto Alert option (for $48 per month) that has fall detection sensors in the SOS button that can automatically summon help without your mom ever having to press a button. Some other major players in the industry that are a little less expensive (under $30 per month) include LifeFone (lifefone.com, 877-849-8942), LifeStation (lifestation.com, 877-478-3390), Bay Alarm Medical (bayalarmmedical.com, 877722-9633), Alert1 (alert-1.com, 888-919-3692), LifeGuardian (lifeguardianmedicalalarms.com, 800-378-2957) and MedicalAlert (medicalalert. com, 800-800-2537). One other unique product worth consideration is the MediPendant (getmedipendant.com, 888-

216-0039) which runs under $35 a month. This system allows your mom to speak and listen to the operator directly through the SOS pendant, versus the base station speakerphone, which often makes for easier communication. No-Fee Alerts – If you’re looking for a cheaper option, consider a no-fee medical alert device that doesn’t have professional monitoring services. These products, which also come with an “SOS” button and a home base station, are pre-programmed to dial personal contacts (relatives, friends, caregivers or 911) if the SOS button is pushed. Most devices store about four phone numbers, and the system dials each number, oneby-one until a connection is made. If you like this style, the Freedom Alert made by LogicMark (logicmark.com, 800-519-2419) is a good product that allows you to speak through the pendent. The purchase price is $300, with no ongoing monthly fees. Also check out Telemergency (telemergencysystems.com, 888-558-7420), which offers a variety of no-fee medical alert devices that cost under $190. Mobile Alerts – If your mom is interested in a device that works outside the home too, several mobile products will let her call for help anywhere. These pendent-style devices, which fit in the palm of your hand, work like little cell phones with GPS tracking capabilities. To call for help, your mom would simply push one button, and an operator from the device’s emergency monitoring service would be on the line to assist her. And because of the GPS technology, they would know her exact location, which is critical in emergencies. Top products to check out in this category include the new 5 Star Urgent Response sold by GreatCall (greatcall.

Living Well With Parkinson’s Disease By Lisa M. Petsche Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a chronic, progressive disorder involving damage to nerve cells in the brain that control muscle movement. According to the National Parkinson Foundation, 1.5 million Americans currently have the disease and approximately 60,000 new cases are diagnosed each year. Incidence increases with age and the majority of cases develop after age 60. The main symptoms of PD are shaking (known as tremors), slow movements, rigidity (due to muscle stiffness), and balance problems. Other symptoms may include low energy, loss of coordination, loss of facial expression, difficulty initiating or continuing movement (“freezing”), stooped posture, a shuffling walk, decreased speech volume, and depression. Early symptoms are subtle and may be overlooked. Diagnosis is made by a neurologist, who may order tests to rule out other conditions with similar features. Although symptoms and rate of progression vary among individuals, usually PD advances slowly, and patients can lead active lives for many years. While no cure exists, medications are available that alleviate the symptoms. In cases where medication does not work, surgery may be considered. Lifestyle modifications are an important part of any treatment plan. Upon diagnosis of a degenerative condition such as PD, patients typically experience shock or disbelief. Subsequent emotions may include anger, fear, anxiety, and sadness. Once patients accept the reality of the disease,

com, 800-733-6632) for $50 plus a $35 activation fee and $15 monthly service fees, and MobileHelp (mobilehelpnow.com, 800-800-1710) which runs between $37 and $42 per month. You also need to know that Medicare and most other plans don’t cover medical alert systems, although in some states Medicaid will if your mom receives Medicaid-funded homecare services. Send your senior questions to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book. ISI

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they can focus on taking control of their situation as much as possible. If you have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, here are ways to empower yourself mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Mental well-being • Learn as much as possible about PD, its management, and educate family and friends. • Be receptive to learning new ways of doing things. Concentrate on what you can rather than cannot do. • Recall past life challenges and how you overcame them, to remind yourself of your resilience. • Cultivate an attitude of gratitude. Learn to live in the moment and enjoy life’s many simple pleasures. • Find role models: celebrities or other people who are living well with PD, from whom you can draw inspiration. Emotional self-care • Allow yourself plenty of time to adjust to your illness and the changes it necessitates. Recognize that your family and friends will also need time to adjust. Let them know how you wish to be treated, and keep the lines of communication open. • Find an outlet for expressing your thoughts and feelings. Consider attending a support group. • Accept that how you feel and what you can do may vary from day to day, and be flexible about

plans and expectations. • Stay connected to people who care. If your social network is limited, develop new connections through volunteering, taking an adult education course, or joining a club or group. • Seek help from your family doctor or a counselor if you continually feel sad, angry, or overwhelmed. Depression is highly treatable. Spiritual well-being • Set aside quiet time each day to nurture your spirituality and help keep you grounded. • Do things that provide you with meaning and purpose, such as writing a family history or helping someone. • If applicable, turn to your religious faith for comfort and strength. Because PD is incurable, the goal, from a medical perspective, is to achieve the highest possible level of functioning and prevent or minimize complications. The following are some strategies that can help. • Find a neurologist whom you trust. • Follow the management plan prescribed by health professionals, which might include medication, diet changes, exercise, rest, adaptive aids, lifestyle changes, stress management techniques, and regular medical check-ups. Let them know right away if the plan is no longer working. • Join an exercise class for people with PD. To

locate one in your area, call the American Parkinson Disease Association at 1-800-223-2732 or go online to www.apdaparkinson.org. • Use a cane or walker when recommended, to minimize the risk of falls. If mobility issues prevent you from getting around in the community, rent or buy a scooter or wheelchair. • Set up a record-keeping system to organize your health information. Ready-made products can be found in office supply stores and bookstores. • Do as much for yourself as possible. Set priorities, simplify tasks, and learn to settle for less than perfection. • Find substitutes for enjoyable activities you can no longer engage in. Just do not overdo it. • Make your home as safe as possible - for example, remove scatter mats and install handrails along stairs. Arrange for an occupational therapist to perform a home assessment, to identify hazards, and to recommend ways to carry out daily activities more easily and safely. If your home’s accessibility is inadequate, renovate or move before a crisis develops. Accept offers of help and ask for assistance as needed. Research services in your community that can help you now or in the future. Lisa M. Petsche is a medical social worker and a freelance writer specializing in health and senior issues. ISI

Important Health Screenings By Jim Miller The types of health screenings a person should get will depend on their age, gender, underlying health conditions, and family history. Here is what you should know. Recommended Tests - One of the problems with our health care system is that many Americans - and their doctors - seem to think that better health means more medical care, including as many screenings and tests as possible. But that is not necessarily true. According to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) - an

independent panel of medical experts that reviews the effectiveness of screenings - many screening tests are unproven and can not only waste your time and money but also cause more harm than good. Here is what the task force recommends (see www.ahrq.gov/ppip/50plus) as essential tests for you and your husband and when you should start getting them. Everyone Over 50 • Blood pressure: Have it checked at least every two years - more frequently if you find your pressure is above 130/85. • Cholesterol: At least every five years, get a blood cholesterol test that measures your LDL “bad” cholesterol, HDL “good” cholesterol, and triglycerides. It should be done more frequently if you smoke, have diabetes, or a family history of high cholesterol. • Colorectal cancer: Begin regular screening starting at age 50. Your doctor can help you decide which test is right for you. • Diabetes: While the USPSTF recommends being tested only if you have high blood pressure, the American Diabetes Association recommends a blood glucose test every three years starting at age 45. If you are obese, have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, a family history of diabetes, or are over age 65, check it yearly. Women Only • Mammograms: The controversial new guideline by the USPSTF now recommends screenings every other year beginning at age 50. However, the American Cancer Society still recommends annual screenings starting at age 40. • Pap smear: To detect cervical cancer, this test is recommended every three years. However, women who have had a total hysterectomy we are devoted to enriching the lives of those entrusted to us. or who are age 65 or older and have had three

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negative pap smears in a row usually do not need to be tested. • Bone density scan: Osteoporosis screening is recommended starting at age 65 and earlier in post-menopausal women with risk factors. Men Only • Abdominal ultrasound: Men between the ages of 65 and 75 that have ever smoked should be screened for an aortic aneurysm, which can develop over many years before bursting. • PSA screening: The jury is still out on whether men should get the PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test or digital rectal exam to detect prostate cancer. Men age 40 and older should talk to their doctor about their risk factors and what they should do. Other Screenings - Some additional screenings to consider are skin examinations by a dermatologist to check for skin cancers; depression screening if you have been feeling down; dental checkups at least once a year; HIV screening if you have had unprotected sex with multiple partners; annual eye exams starting at age 60 to check for age-related eye diseases; hearing tests by an audiologist every five years starting at 65; and, for women 50 and older, a thyroid-simulating hormone test every five years to check for thyroid disease. Vaccinations - In addition to health screenings, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that people 65 and older get a one-time pneumonia (pneumococcal) shot and that those over 60 should be vaccinated for shingles. It is also recommended that everyone over 50 get a yearly flu shot, along with a tetanus-diphtheriapertussis (Tdap) booster every 10 years (if you are over 65, you only need a tetanus-diphtheria booster). Send your questions to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of The Savvy Senior book. ISI

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2013

IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 31

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Basic hygiene helps prevent illness By Susan Frances Bonner, RN, BSN It’s that time of year again, folks. The temperatures are low, the snow is blowing, and some of the oldest creatures known to man are free to lay havoc on our immune systems. Yes, it’s winter. And with colder weather come colds, flu, and upper respiratory infections. Hygiene is an age-old subject that is as timely as ever, and one thing is clear, since the days of Florence Nightingale, good hygiene is the hallmark of maintaining good health and preventing the transmission of disease. The term hygiene is derived from Hygeia, the Greek goddess of health, cleanliness, and sanitation. Hygiene is also the name of the science that deals with the promotion and preservation of health. Hygiene is most often associated with cleanliness and preventative measures. In medicine, hygiene practices are employed to reduce the incidence and spreading of disease. Keeping oneself clean to help keep you and your family healthy seems like a basic practice that everyone should know how to do. But most people take hygiene for granted. Take hand washing for instance. In this day and age of hand sanitizers, specialty paper towels, and all kinds of wipes, this basic preventative measure has become obsolete. Yet it is the most efficient, cheapest, and easiest way to prevent the transmission of disease and illness.

So, let’s review this age-old practice. You should wash your hands before: preparing or eating food; after going to the bathroom, after changing diapers or cleaning up a child who has gone to the bathroom; before and after caring for someone who is sick; after handling uncooked foods, particularly raw meat, poultry, or fish; after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing; after handling an animal or animal waste; after handling garbage; before and after treating a cut or wound; and after handling items contaminated by flood water or sewage. Just as hand washing is the first step to good hygiene, keeping one’s body and clothes clean is the next phase. My husband, who was a New York inner city paramedic made sure that every time he came home from work he would take his work clothes off at the front door of our home, put it in a garbage bag, and then take a shower. A practice that I continued throughout my nursing career. As a travel nurse, I was very cognizant of keeping clean. I could not afford for my family or me to get sick because we were traveling across the United States. I also did not want to be a “typhoid Mary� and carry illness wherever I went. And because of my vigilance neither happened. To bring this issue home, I will give you an example of how important hand washing and

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cleanliness really are. While working in a facility for the developmentally disabled, the medical staff was informed that there was a shortage of flu vaccine. The medical staff had to come up with preventative practices to decrease the instance of flu, which could run rampant in a facility that housed about one hundred patients and staff. After some research, we decided that we would emphasize good hand washing practices and increase the duties of the cleaning staff so that the facility would be cleaned twice as much. Patients were given extra baths and told how and when to wash their hands. During that year there were fewer cases of flu than at any other time, even without the flu shots. Soap and water are cheap, easy, and a sure way to keep you and your family illness free. So forget those fancy antibacterial solutions; keep it simple and keep it clean! Susan Frances Bonner, RN BSN, is the author of Opening A Registered Nurses Eyes; A life Altering Journey Across North America. ISI

What Causes Arthritis? A drunken man who smelled like beer sat down on a subway next to a priest. The man’s tie was stained, his face was plastered with red lipstick, and a half-empty bottle of gin was sticking out of his torn coat pocket. He opened his newspaper and began reading. After a few minutes, the man turned to the priest and asked, “Say Father, what causes arthritis?� The priest replied, “My Son, it’s caused by loose living, being with cheap, wicked women, too much alcohol, contempt for your fellow man, sleeping around with prostitutes, and lack of a bath.� The drunk muttered in response, “Well, I’ll be darned,� and then returned to his paper. The priest, thinking about what he had said, nudged the man and apologized. “I’m very sorry. I didn’t mean to come on so strong. How long have you had arthritis?� The drunk answered, “I don’t have it, Father. I was just reading here that the Pope does.� Moral: Make sure you understand the question before offering the answer. ISI

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Different Sales Methods Can Help You Get The Best Price For Your Home By Ted Ingram (EzineArticles.com/7320968) If you have a property sale coming up then you need to focus on getting the best price possible. The better your home sale goes the more capital you have to work with and the more options become available to you in terms of future investment. It’s crucial that you work closely with a real estate agent, but knowing a few marketing strategies and having an idea of what you want to do is a good way to give direction for your sale. Creating interest is one of the most important things that you can do for you home sale. Attract buyers and encourage the very best offers with these sale and marketing strategies. Sale by Auction – One of the most successful and popular ways to sell, an auction can create interest in almost any climate. Advertising online, through signage and in property magazines encourages many potential buyers to show up. Giving at least a fortnight to a month before the date will create some urgency without rushing the sale so much to put people off. You set the reserve price with your real estate

Resources for Making a Home Easy To Live In By Jim Miller Most seniors want to stay living in their own home. But being able to do so often depends on how easy it will be to get around the house if you develop physical limitations. Here are some helpful resources you can turn to, to get an idea of what types of improvements you should make that will make your home safer and more convenient as you grow older. Get Informed – A good first step in making your house senior-friendly is to do a home assessment. Go through your house, room by room as if you’ve never set foot in it before, looking for problem areas like potential tripping or slipping hazards, and areas that are hard to access. To help you with this, various organizations offer published lists of questions to ask, and things to look for to identify problems. The Fall Prevention Center of Excellence (see homemods.org), for example, offers a number of online checklists including one called “How Well Does Your Home Meet Your Needs?” that you can access directly at homeneedschecklist. org. Or, download and print off the National Caregivers Library “Home Modification Checklist” at caregiverslibrary.org – click on “Checklists & Forms,” then on “Housing” to get there. AARP also has an excellent resource called “The AARP Home Fit Guide” that provides a checklist and tips to keep your home safe and livable as you age. You can access it at homefitguide.org, or if you’re an AARP member, call 888-687-2277 and ask them to mail you a free copy. Personalized Advice – If you want more personalized help, consider getting a professional in-home assessment with an occupational therapist. An occupational therapist, or OT can evaluate the challenges and shortcomings of your home, make modification recommendations, and refer

agent and promote your auction day to potential buyers. No minimum price is posted to encourage as big a turnout as possible. The finality of an auction sale also tends to be a major draw for interested parties. Because of the competitive nature of an auction sale, you’re going to see the best offers come out of the woodwork. Sale by Tender – Similar to an auction, the strategy behind a sale by tender is that you encourage competition among interested buyers. Purchasers submit an offer before the closing date of the tender without knowing what other offers have been put forward. The idea is that every

buyer puts his/her best foot forward first and you get the choice of only the very best offers. One of the biggest pluses with a tender sale is that you retain confidentiality that you would otherwise lose with a public auction. This can mean better offers when the buyers don’t know who else might be interested. Move forward with your home sale and create new opportunities in real estate. Get the best offer for your property sale by choosing a marketing strategy that’s right for you. Talk to your real estate company about what will be best in the current property climate and what will be best for your home. ISI

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you to products and services to help you make improvements. Ask your doctor for a referral to an OT in your area. Your local Area Agency on Aging (call the Eldercare Locator at 800-677-1116 for contact information) can also help you find nearby therapists. Many health insurance providers, including Medicare, will pay for a home assessment by an OT if prescribed by your doctor. However, they will not cover the physical upgrades to the home. Another good option is to contact a builder who’s a Certified Aging in Place Specialist. He or she can suggest ways to modify your home that will fit your needs and budget. To find one, go to the National Association of Home Builders website at nahb.org/hireacaps where you can search by state and zip code. Home Modifications Ideas – There are dozens of small, simple things you can do to make your home more user-friendly as you age, such as securing throw rugs with double-sided tape to avoid tripping, installing brighter

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full-spectrum bulbs in existing light fixtures to improve visibility, and adding grab bars to the bathroom for support. There are also a number of bigger more extensive projects like installing a stair-lift or elevator for multi-floor access, and replacing the tub with a walk-in shower for easier entry and exit. To get a list of more senior-friendly home improvement ideas and illustrations, see the National Aging in Place Council website at ageinplace.org – click on “Practical Advice” then on “Making Your Home Senior Friendly.” Another good resource that’s loaded with tips and universal design ideas is the “AARP Guide to Revitalizing Your Home.” It’s available in bookstores nationwide as well as online at sites like amazon.com for around $16. Send your senior questions to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of The Savvy Senior book. ISI

Idaho Debuts at No. 10 on Peace Corps’ Top Volunteer-Producing States Per Capita of 2012 WASHINGTON, D.C. – Idaho makes its debut on the list of states with the highest number of Peace Corps volunteers per capita. Sixty-two currently serving Peace Corps volunteers call Idaho home, making it the No. 10 Peace Corps volunteer-producing state per capita. “Idaho is proving to be fertile ground for the skills and experience the Peace Corps values in its volunteers,” said Janet Allen, regional manager of the Peace Corps West Coast Region. “It is a testament to Idahoans’ pioneering spirit and commitment to service that so many have contributed their talents abroad. We are delighted to welcome Idaho as one of Peace Corps’ top producing states.” In addition to Idaho’s top 10 finish among states, the Boise City-Nampa and Idaho Falls metropolitan areas rank in the top 100 volunteer-producing metro areas per capita, coming in at No. 45 and No. 86, respectively, from more than 300 metropolitan areas nationwide. Historically, Idaho has produced 1,268 Peace Corps volunteers who have helped promote a better understanding between Americans and the people of the 139 countries in which they have served. Idahoans serve around the world and bring home experience in vital work areas, including agriculture, environment, and community economic development. Peace Corps is a life-defining leadership experience for Americans who are prepared for the challenge of public service overseas. Volunteers return home as global citizens with cross-cultural, leadership, language, teaching, and community development skills that position them well for advanced education and professional opportunities in today’s global job market. Peace Corps’ eight regional recruiting offices across the United States work to recruit and provide information to prospective Peace Corps volunteers. The West Coast Region offices and staff serve Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington. Visit the regional recruitment office webpage to locate the nearest office. Applicants of all ages are encouraged to plan and apply for Peace Corps service approximately one year in advance of their target departure date. To learn more about volunteering with the Peace Corps, visit www.peacecorps.gov/learn. About the Peace Corps: Since President John F. Kennedy established the Peace Corps

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IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 35

Peace Corps service is a 27-month commitment and the agency’s mission is to promote world peace and friendship and a better understanding between Americans and people of other countries. Visit www.peacecorps. gov for more information. ISI

Bone Up on Dinosaurs in Dickenson, North Dakota Article & Photo By Bernice Karnop Dickenson, North Dakota, is only about 60 miles from the Montana line going east. It is the gateway to Theodore Roosevelt National Park, the home of Dickenson State University, and a regional shopping hub for many Montanans. The area is also known for good hunting, fishing, and camping. If you are looking for a trip with the grandchildren, Dakota Dinosaur Museum in Dickenson is a good place to consider. You are off to a good start when you pass the triceratops guarding the door and wander into a world of amazing creatures that left their mark for humans to marvel and wonder about. This museum gives you a realistic idea of their size and shape with its 14 full-scale dinosaur models. Skeletal casts of real dinosaur bones allow you to see inside such creatures as the Allosaurus, Albertosaurus, Thescelosaurus, and Ategosaurus. You may not have heard of them, but younger members of the family interested in paleontology might be kind enough to explain them to you. Fleshed-out, full-scale dinosaur sculptures include Coelophysis, Deinonychus, Dromaeosaurus, Velociraptor, Archaeopteryx, and Compsognathus. If you want to see the real thing, they have that, too. “Bill” is a Triceratops skull discovered in excellent condition and excavated from private

land near Baker, Montana, in the summer of 1992. It took 24 days to dig him out from eight feet beneath the surface using shovels and hand tools. Paleontologists encased the skull in 500 pounds of Plaster of Paris and wrapped it in burlap before they transported it to Dicke enson. This tricera atops skull is 6’4” i length and was in f found in a bent tonite clay layer o the Hell Creek of F Formation. Bill is a approximately 67 m million years old. T Dakota DinoThe s saur Museum is l largely a sampling o the specimens of c collected by Alice a Larry League. and T They started in 1987 with Oligocene age mammals near Dickinson. The Museum opened in 1994 and includes several thousand specimens of fossils, rocks, and minerals that Larry and Alice collected from around the world. Dakota Dinosaur Museum is at 200 East Museum Drive in Dickenson. Admission fees are $7 for adults, $5 for seniors, and $4 for grandchildren aged 3 to 12. It is open May 1 through Labor Day, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Stop by the gift store

for related items, including t-shirts, puzzles, and games. Near the Dakota Dinosaur Museum, you can stretch your legs at the 12-acre Prairie Outpost Park, the Joachim Museum, and the Pioneer Machinery Museum. For more information, call 701-225-3466. ISI

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www.harmontravel.com 1529 W. Washington, Boise

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Does the “4 percent rule” hold up for retirement? By Ross Blair, CEO of PlanPrescriber.com The Baby Boomer generation is now aging into Medicare at a time when health care costs are growing and there are questions about the program’s future. This raises concerns for a fastgrowing population unsure if they’ll be able to afford health care once they retire. On average, about 3.5 million Baby Boomers will age into Medicare each year for the next 17 years, which makes it critically important that boomers accurately anticipate their health care costs and choose the right health care coverage for their needs. For decades now, William Bengen’s popular “4 percent rule,” has taught retirees that if they spend no more than 4 percent of their nest egg each year, their savings will last 30 years. But, the rule may need some adjustment in light of today’s economic reality. Depending on when you retire and how long you live, some financial experts are suggesting that a lower withdrawal rate might be necessary. When it comes specifically to health care costs, here are some startling statistics from The Center for Retirement Research at Boston College: • $197,000 - At age 65, a typical married couple free of chronic disease can expect to spend $197,000 on remaining lifetime health care

costs - excluding nursing home care. However, this couple faces a 5 percent probability that these costs will exceed $311,000. • $260,000- Including nursing home care, the mean cost is $260,000, with a 5 percent probability of costs exceeding $570,000. • 15% - Less than 15 percent of households approaching retirement have accumulated that much in total financial assets. To help manage health care costs in retirement, those 65 and older typically consider benefits like long-term care insurance and Medigap coverage. But, anyone saving for retirement or nearing Medicare eligibility should be aware of the following issues: Learn the basics of Medicare - Trying to understand Medicare can make anyone’s head spin. A recent survey by PlanPrescriber/Opinion Research Corp. found that 55 percent of Baby Boomers believe Medicare functions just like health insurance. However, Medicare differs from traditional health insurance in many ways, and there are some things that it doesn’t cover. Before you get inundated with sales pitches and unsolicited advice, try to understand the basics of how Medicare works. There are three basic ways to cover yourself: 1. Original Medicare: This includes Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B (original Medicare),

with a Medicare Part D (prescription drug) plan; 2. Medicare Advantage: Also called Medicare Part C, Medicare Advantage bundles parts A, B, and D into a single plan managed by a private insurance company. These plans can include vision, dental, and other benefits. 3. Medicare Supplements (also called MediGap): People who have original Medicare (Part A and Part B), can enroll in a separate MediGap plan to fill gaps in Original Medicare. It’s also recommended people enroll in a separate Part D plan. Figure out what you can afford. It sounds simple, but if you haven’t estimated what your retirement income will be, start doing that math before you enroll in Medicare. Calculate your income after Social Security benefits, pensions, IRA and 401(k) savings, etc. Then, create a list of monthly expenses including rent, utilities and food, as well as other things like your prescription drug costs. Subtract your expenses from your income to develop a good sense of what you can afford to spend on Medicare on a monthly basis. Finally, look at your savings and think about how big of a deductible you could afford if you had a large medical expense. Once you know what you can afford each month, and what you could afford in an emergency, you’re ready to start comparing.

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Do side-by-side Comparison. If you want to make the most of your health care dollars, get the broadest possible view of all of your Medicare options. There are four “parts” to Medicare (A, B, C and D), plus ten Medicare supplements, each with their own costs, benefits and potential gaps. The only way to really know if you’re making an informed decision is to compare plans side-byside and make sure you understand what you’ll pay each month and what you would have to pay in a “worst-case” type of medical scenario. The average Medicare beneficiary has 20

Medicare Advantage plans to choose from in their county. Rural counties average 13 plans, while urban counties average 22, according to Kaiser Family Foundation. Plans do vary by county due to cost and provider networks, so beneficiaries should review plan availability and benefits in their county by zip code. In most states there are 10 standard types of Medicare Supplement plans, and about 20 percent of Medicare beneficiaries nationwide select this type of coverage. Each insurer decides how to set the premium for its Medigap policies. It can

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be set one of three ways: through community rating, issue-age rating, or attained-age rating. How the premium is set will affect how much you pay now and in the future. Comparing plans can be overwhelming, but there are online tools including www.medicare. gov/find-a-plan and www.planprescriber.com that can help simplify the process. Though it may seem overwhelming at first, taking the time to research your best option could really pay off and help ensure your nest egg will last as long as you need it. ISI

Who Is Going To Afghanistan? By Jim Meade Ole, the smoothest-talking Swede in the Minnesota National Guard, was called up to active duty. Ole’s first assignment was in a military induction center. Because he was a good talker, they assigned him the duty of advising new recruits about government benefits, especially the GI life insurance, to which they were entitled. The officer in charge soon noticed that Ole was getting a 99% sign-up rate for the more expensive supplemental form of GI insurance. This was remarkable, because it cost these low-income recruits $30 per month for the higher coverage, compared to what the government was already providing at no charge. The officer decided he’d sit in the back of the room at the next briefing and observe Ole’s sales pitch. Ole stood up before the latest group of inductees and said, “If you haf da normal GI insurans an’ yoo go to Afghanistan an’ get yourself killed, da governmen’ pays yer beneficiary $20,000. If yoo take out da supplemental insurans, vich cost you only t’irty dollars a mont, den da governmen’ got ta pay yer beneficiary $200,000!” “Now,” Ole concluded, “Vich bunch you tink dey gonna send ta Afghanistan first?” ISI

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Dogs days blend into decades of mushing for Marsha Truman By Dianna Troyer A chorus of urgent pick-me, pick-me yelping greets musher Marsha Truman at her kennels west of Blackfoot. Marsha picks her team of 5 1/2-year-old dogs to harness to her sled for a training run on her 2-mile track near her home. “In February, we’ll be heading to Colorado and Oregon for some competitions with spectacular courses,” she shouts above the canine din. She usually competes in about four races every winter, picking scenic courses in Idaho, Colorado, and Oregon. Since 1976, Marsha has been addicted to dog sledding after a friend urged her to give it a try. “We combined our dogs to form a team, and before you know it I liked it so much I began racing my own team,” says Marsha, 59, who has had more time to devote to the sport since she retired in 2009 from the Idaho Department of Transportation, where she worked in engineering and contract management. “When I started, you could run three-, five- and seven-dog teams. These days, I usually run six- or eight-dog teams. It’s a sport that attracts people who love dogs and being outside. The camaraderie with the team is great, and you see some gorgeous country.” A popular race in Idaho is the American Dog Derby in Ashton, which runs this year Marsha Truman races her team eight miles in the Dubois Sled Dog Race. February 14-16. Started in 1917, it attracts She has been running dogs since 1976 and developed 60 acres west of competitors from throughout the West who Blackfoot for a training facility. [Photo by Deb Robinett]

race in several distance categories from 7.5 miles to 92 miles. Marsha prefers the sprint races of eightdog teams that race eight to 10 miles or a six-dog team that runs six or seven miles. “The sprints are safer. Less can go wrong in that distance. I’ve done the intermediate races of 12 miles, but I’m the kind of person who likes to run the dogs and go back to the truck and have a beer with everyone. The longer races of 60 miles are more for people who like the man-versusnature idea, and nature tends to throw in a few speed bumps along the way.” A speed bump that every racer fears, no matter the distance, is losing the sled. “One of the mottos of racing is, ‘Never let go of the sled.’ The dogs are bred to run, so they’ll keep going without you,” Marsha explains. During races, Marsha whizzes down a trail at about 20 miles an hour. Depending on terrain, the dogs run a three-minute mile. To train for races, she runs her dogs four or five days a week. “If there’s no snow down here, I’ll drive up to Ashton,” she says, “so it takes all day. If we have good snow here, it might take me a couple of hours to make a run.” During spring and fall to keep the dogs in shape, she runs them on dirt and has them pull a four-wheeler. “When the temperature gets above 50, you can’t run your dogs because they’ll overheat.” After selecting the dogs, she sets the sled’s anchor and begins to harness them into place. King, Nell, and Daisy run in front to lead the team. “King’s a German short-haired cross and is a little goofy. Nell and Daisy are sisters who are intelligent, obedient, and sweet. Daisy gets a little uptight sometimes. Most people think the lead dog is the alpha, but the lead dog is generally the one who is the most obedient. In this team, I’m the only alpha,” she says, laughing. “I strive for a happy, pleasant team that is compatible.” Most mushers raise their own litters. “They’re called Alaskan huskies, but they’re really more crosses of hounds and pointers. They’re not big and furry and fluffy,” she says of her lean, short-haired companions. “They remind me of a human track sprinter – tall and skinny.” Marsha has 23 dogs of several litters ranging in age from her racing team of 5 ½-year-olds to ages 8, 10, and 12. “When they’re young, about 3, they’re hot on speed but inexperienced. When they’re about 5, they’re in their prime. Sometimes, in picking a team it’s a tradeoff between wisdom and speed.” Even when they’re young, dog sled puppies have an innate urge to run. “They’re not interested in fetching or lounging on the sofa. All they want to do from the time they’re born is to go somewhere.” For many mushers like Marsha, raising dogs and racing are a way of life. “They’re self-perpetuating. If you have them, you have to race them.” She and her late life partner, Scott Campbell who passed away in 2011, bought 60 acres to develop a property devoted to dog sledding. She offers some advice to dog lovers who want to give mushing a try. “See a shrink first. It’s a lot different than a Disney movie and a lot of timeconsuming work. You have to really love dogs and love winter.” Marsha says she won’t breed another litter. “This is my last one. People have told me there’s life after mushing,” she says, laughing. “One of these days I’ll give it a try and do a little more bird watching, hiking, and camping.” Then she lifts the sled anchor and quickly disappears down her training trail amidst a fading chorus of exuberant barks. ISI

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Car Shopping Tips By Jim Miller For people who are in the market for a new or used car, the AAA (American Automobile Association) and the University of Florida’s Institute for Mobility, Activity and Participation has just updated an excellent resource called “Smart Features for Older Drivers” that can help you choose a vehicle that meets your needs as you age. Senior-Friendly Vehicles – While the automotive industry doesn’t make vehicles specifically designed for older people, they do make certain vehicles with features that can help accommodate the needs of older drivers. With that in mind, “Smart Features for Older Drivers” addresses the age-related physical changes – like diminished vision, arthritis, and range of motion loss – that can affect a senior’s driving ability and comfort behind the wheel, and outlines various vehicle features that help address those issues. Here’s what they recommend. Safety First – The first priority is to identify vehicles with a proven safety record that you can research online at safercar.gov and iihs.org/ ratings. Also look for vehicles that have dynamic stability control, anti-lock brakes, adjustable head restraints, and side and dual-stage/threshold airbags that adjust the deployment force based on the severity of the crash.

Your next step is to identify specific vehicle features that can help meet your physical needs. So depending on what ails you, here’s what to look for. Hip and knee problems – For comfort, a better fit, and easier entry and exit, look for vehicles that have six-way adjustable power seats that move the seat forward and backward, up and down, and the seat-back forward and backward. Also look for low door thresholds and seat heights that don’t require too much bending or climbing to get into. The ideal seat height is between midthigh and lower buttocks when standing next to the vehicle. Leather or faux leather seats are also easier to slide in and out of than cloth seats. Stiff upper body – If you have difficulty looking over your shoulder to back up or merge into traffic, look for vehicles with a large rear window for better visibility, wide-angle mirrors which can minimize blind spots, back-up cameras, active parallel park assistance, and blind-spot warning systems that alert you to objects in the way. Also, for comfort and fit, consider vehicles that have a tilt and telescoping steering wheel, adjustable seatbelts, and heated seats with lumbar support. Arthritic hands – For easier use, four-door vehicles are recommended because the doors are smaller, lighter, and easier to open and close than two-door models. And to help with painful gripping and turning problems, look for keyless

Salamander Crossings at Waterton Lakes National Park By Bernice Karnop My first response was to laugh. I thought it was a joke. We were driving up to the visitor center in Waterton Lakes National Park where you know enough to watch for deer, moose, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, great herds of elk, or bears. So why is there a sign warning motorists of a lizard crossing? The clerk at the hotel groused about its being some make-work foolishness invented by the park service, but when I looked it up, I found quite a dramatic tale. First, the creatures in Waterton are not lizards but salamanders, specifically long-toed salamanders. They look a lot like lizards but they have thin, moist skin instead of scales. They have four toes on the front feet, and unlike lizards, they have no claws. They need to be in the water sometimes and on the land sometimes. You’ve probably never seen a salamander. They are small, silent, and nocturnal. Only four to seven inches long, salamanders burrow under logs and leaves and crawl under the rocks in the streams. What with all the big exciting wildlife in the Park, no one noticed that the little critters lived in Waterton. No one noticed them, that is, until they redid the road. A park employee in the fall of 1991 noticed the problem. He saw salamanders backed up in a mini-traffic jam on the pavement. Cars squashed them without even noticing. The salamanders struggled to get up and over the new steep curbs on their necessary migration to tiny Linnet Lake, which sits near the roadway between Upper and Middle Waterton Lakes. During the spring migration in 1992, the scenario repeated itself but the word was out. One of Waterton’s small residents needed some help. That April, community volunteers turned out to manually carry more than 2,000 salamanders across the road! This discovery led to a two-year study done by Julie Fukumoto of the University of Calgary as part of her Master’s Degree. She identified several other threats to salamanders, including loss of habitat, stocking non-native fish that eat salamander eggs, salting the roads, and chlorine releases from the hotel. Park officials, surprised by this sizable population of salamanders, began looking for solutions to help this quiet, unassuming creature who shares the park with the big guys. They installed salamander-friendly curbs and drainage tiles, and they removed the problem curbs. Now that they know why the salamander crosses the road, steps have been taken to protect them from becoming road kill. So don’t laugh when you see the Lizard Crossing sign in Waterton. In fact, wherever you go, speak up for those on planet earth who can’t speak for themselves. ISI

entry and a push-button ignition, a thicker steering wheel, power mirrors and seats, and a sliding channel gear selector. Diminished vision – Drivers with vision loss due to cataracts, glaucoma, or some other condition will find vehicles with larger instrument panels and dashboard controls with contrasting text easier to see and manipulate. And those with sensitivity to glare will benefit from extendable sun visors, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and glare reducing side mirrors. Smart Features Resource – To access the “Smart Features for Older Drivers” resource, visit SeniorDriving.AAA.com/SmartFeatures and use their online tool that lets you choose the agefriendly features you want in a vehicle, and the tool will identify the makes and models that best fit your needs. Or, if you don’t have internet access call your AAA (call 800-222-4357 to get your local number) and ask them to mail you a free copy of the “Smart Features for Older Drivers” brochure. You don’t have to be an AAA member to get this free publication. Send your senior questions to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book. ISI

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Al Ponton crafts home decor, furniture from horseshoes By Dianna Troyer horseshoes, he uses spurs, bits, rasps for diagonal supports in a table, During retirement, Al Ponton unintentionally started a part-time busi- and a curved wooden hame of a horse harness for a lamp. ness, giving old horseshoes a new life with his welding torch and sparks Al says some people at shows have told him his creations look easy from his imagination. to make, and they plan to go home and make their own. After he and his wife, Joan, retired in 2004 “It’s harder than you think to get the shoes and moved from Montana to the Lost River Vallevel, straight and clean. When I weld, I don’t ley, he began welding a few items from worn leave spatter, either. I like my work to look horseshoes to decorate their new home. neat,” says Al, who has welded since high Friends saw his work and put in a few reschool. quests, spurring him to start a small business, In his shop adjacent to his house, several Trail Creek Creations with a website, www.trailfive-gallon buckets of horseshoes stand in a creekcreations.com. row. “Local farriers donate old shoes to me,” “Any talent I have was given to me, so I give Al says. “I clean them and buff them to get off credit to God, and I’m happy to share my skills the manure and dirt.” with others,” says Al, who has donated his work Once a piece is completed to his satisfacto local charity fund-raisers. tion, Al generally paints the shoes a flat black “I love creating pieces and meeting people or a clear lacquer so the shiny silver-colored who appreciate what I’ve made. I like to see surface shows. someone look at a piece and say they really like When Al decided to retire from his job it. It feels good to make people happy.” working in contractor sales and purchasing at He has shown his work at arts and craft a lumberyard in Hamilton, Montana, the couple shows and cowboy gatherings including the Cownaturally looked at central Idaho, so Joan, who boy Poetry Gathering in Elko, the Reno Rodeo, grew up in the nearby scenic Pahsimeroi Valthe National Cutting Horse Championships, and ley, could be near her family. the Cowboy Christmas Show in Las Vegas. “My brother runs the family ranch,” Joan “At Christmas, people like the wreaths ensays, “and I still go over to help him move twined with a red bandana, a Christmas tree, cattle. For us, moving here was like coming cowboy cross, and a kneeling cowboy praying,” home to God’s country. Hamilton has grown he says, as he flips through a notebook filled so much since we first moved there.” with photos of his horseshoe décor. He makes The Pontons found some land north of the more than 90 items including candleholders, wind Al Ponton crafts furniture and home decor from Mackay Reservoir. “It’s not crowded, people chimes, napkin holders, hat racks, plant stands, horse shoes. [Photo by Dianna Troyer] here are friendly, and the scenery is beautiful,” book ends, coat racks, and lamps. Al says. “We love being able to see Mount BoBesides décor for kitchen, bathroom and living room, Al makes fur- rah and Leatherman Peak out our windows. This kind of landscape inspires niture, incorporating everyday ranch items into his creations. Along with a person’s creativity.” ISI

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Harmonious Tews still have a song in their hearts for each other their six children of humble beginnings and the importance of a work ethic. By Dianna Troyer “When I was young, in the winter I’d shovel spuds for a dollar an hour,” Wendell and Marjean Tew of Leslie are still as enamored with each he recalls. “I thought I was doing well when I eventually made $1.25 an other as they were more than a half century ago when they first met. “We grew up in the Lost River Valley but didn’t really get acquainted hour.” After they married, he sold Watkins products for 40 years, traveling until we both performed in a local operetta called Phyllis the Farmer’s southeastern Idaho as a director as well as Daughter,” Wendell recalls. “She played taking care of his personal route, while Marthe role of Phyllis, and I was the hero who jean taught school in Mackay for 22 years. sang Jewels, I Have None to Give Thee They raised six children, Brenda, Michael, and then presented her with a bouquet of Bruce, Allison, Craig, and Rachelle. wild flowers.” During their long marriage of nearly 60 Wendell, 86, still sings that song to years, they learned to keep their relationMarjean, 82, on special occasions such as ship harmonious. “You have to be considerValentine’s Day, her birthday, or their wedate of each other and let your spouse have ding anniversary, and presents her with wild space if needed,” Wendell says. “When we flowers in season. got married, we both considered it to be a “I want her to know she’s as special to long-term commitment – forever.” me as when we first met,” Wendell says. Marjean says it’s important to respect “She has always been attractive to me, and your spouse’s opinions and feelings. “Each we still enjoy being with each other.” person comes into the marriage with a difAlong with the song, he also writes short ferent script and background, so you learn poems for her, joking about their quality. to mesh those.” “They usually start with ‘roses are red, vioWhen disagreements arose, they put lets are blue,’” he says. To Marjean, those Marjean and Wendell Tew show a portrait of them with their children their differences in perspective by relying heartfelt and humorous verses are priceless, and grandchildren. [Photo by Dianna Troyer] on a saying, “Morning is always wiser than so she saves them in clear protective plastic evening.” sleeves in her personal history book. To celebrate their anniversaries, the Tews explored other countries. After they married on June 24, 1952, their sense of humor helped them “We love to travel,” says Marjean of their trips to Israel, Guatemala, the cope with building homes. “There were no homes for sale or rent, so we lived in an 8-foot by 11-foot Panama Canal, Russia, Australia, Denmark, Sweden, Turkey, Canada, log cabin in Leslie for six months, while building a four-room cinderblock Hawaii, Alaska, and several other countries. Last summer, to celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary, “Our kids home next to it. We lived in it for six years, and in 1959 we moved into our present home, which we built on the farm in Leslie,” Marjean says. “We planned a get-together for us,” Marjean says of a family celebration with lived in the basement for seven years until we got the upstairs finished. We their 28 grandchildren and 44 great grandchildren. Like he has happily done for decades, Wendell picked a bouquet of didn’t want to go into debt, so we paid for things as we went.” Wendell moved the tiny cabin to their property north of Leslie to remind wild flowers for Marjean and wrote her another poem. ISI

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Artist finds niche carving wildlife on antlers By Dianna Troyer Long says. “It’s really hard to carve animals and she finishes it with a clear protective lacquer. She With the recent sale of most of her family’s to get the features right. I know I can put her work estimates it takes about 20 to 25 hours to paint farm near Downey, Tina Hansen doesn’t wonder in my high-end pieces like a table lamp. She is so and carve a scene on a typical moose antler. what she will do with her newfound spare time. Tina says she learned the principles of art Tina, who raised and sold hay with her father from a high school art teacher. She learned for decades, has turned her part-time passion other skills she uses in her antler work while into a fulltime pursuit. enrolled in a drafting and design program at She paints and carves wildlife on moose and Idaho State University. fallow deer antlers, selling them at prestigious In 1984, when she graduated from ISU, art galleries in Montana. Tina said she assumed she would look for work “My antler artwork always fit well with the in a city, but her appreciation of wildlife and farm schedule,” says Tina, 51, who works inside a rural lifestyle kept her rooted on the family a studio beside the family farmhouse. “When farm. we farmed, I worked on it during the off season. “I never intended to stay on the farm this Now I have more time.” long, though,” Tina adds, “But here I am. I Her work is popular at art galleries in Bozesuppose my folks never thought they would man, Ennis, Gardner, and West Yellowstone stay this long either, more than 50 years. My where customers appreciate her detailed artistry granddad bought the farm in 1950.” in the elk, deer, moose, bighorn sheep, antelope, About the time Tina earned her degree, eagles, and wolves that she paints and carves coffee tables and clocks made from CaliforTina Hansen paints wildlife onto antlers, selling her artowrk on antlers. nia redwood and buckeye were popular, she at galleries and through word-of-mouth to clients. [Photo by “I sell about 20 to 30 pieces a year to the Dianna Troyer] recalls. For several years, she made those galleries or to people who hear about me by and painted wildlife on them. Then, a friend in word-of-mouth,” says Tina, whose artwork has sold easy to work with, too. I can ask her for a piece, Downey asked her to paint a wildlife scene on a to collectors in Washington, Alaska, Texas, Iowa, and I know she’ll get it done in a reasonable moose antler he had found. Tennessee, California, and Virginia. “People like amount of time. Her work is just unbelievable.” “After that, the antlers just took over,” she says. to put them beside a fireplace or on a mantle or In 1993, while buying antlers from a business To begin a piece, Tina paints white gesso acrylhang them on a wall.” ic on the portion of the antler where she will paint a in Ennis, Tina stopped at Frank’s business in BozeFor nearly two decades, Tina’s work has been wildlife scene. Atop that, she sketches the wildlife, man and showed him her work. selling at Frank Long and Company Antler Art in and then paints with fast-drying acrylics. Next, she “He’s been selling my work ever since. The Bozeman, Mont. uses a Dremel tool and air tool to carve around antlers keep me busy, and the family farm has “Her wildlife is so accurate, and her painting, the animals, making them three-dimensional. always been a good life, too.” ISI especially the colors and shading, is exceptional,” Once she completes a piece to her satisfaction,

Submitted by Julie Hollar-Brantley He was a widower and she a widow. They had known each other for a number of years being high school classmates and having attended class reunions in the past without fail. At this 60th anniversary of their class, the widower and the widow made a foursome with two other singles

High School Reunion and they had a wonderful evening, their spirits high. The widower threw admiring glances across the table, and the widow smiled coyly back at him. Finally, he picked up courage to ask her, “Will you marry me?” After about six seconds of careful consideration, she answered, “Yes... yes, I will !” The evening ended on a happy note for the widower. But the next morning he was troubled. Did she say, “Yes?” Or, did she say, “No?” He couldn’t remember. Try as he would, he just

could not recall. With fear and trepidation, he picked up the phone and called her. First, he explained that he couldn’t remember as well as he used to. Then he reviewed the past evening. As he gained a little more courage, he then inquired of her. “When I asked if you would marry me, did you say, “Yes” or did you say, “No?” “Why you silly man, I said Yes. Yes I will.’ And I meant it with all my heart.” The widower was delighted. He felt his heart skip a beat. Then she continued. “And I am so glad you called because I couldn’t remember who asked me! ISI

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Ron Moore is at home on the range and in front of an easel By Dianna Troyer in trouble in school because I’d be copying Will Ron Moore, 70, an artist, rancher and former James’ pen and ink drawings instead of doing my outfitter, admits he’s lousy at retirement. lessons. But it was worth it. I got where I am today “My wife, Christie, and I keep trying to retire, because of Will James.” but we’re not very good at it. My whole life has Because Ron couldn’t afford formal art classes, been cows and art and still is.” he became a self-described museum junkie. The self-taught “I’d spend as artist stays busy much time as in the studio adjaI could studying cent to their home their work, their in Darlington, filling values, their brush clients’ requests for strokes, to see paintings of scenery what they did and on their ranches, how they did it, their prized horsand I learned from es, “whatever they that,” says Ron, want.” who was born in He puts the finOklahoma. ishing touches on a When he got painting of a mounhome from a mutainous ranch, which seum, he applied was commissioned what he saw. by his former neigh“If something bors near Elk Mounstill didn’t look tain in Wyoming. “I’ll right, I’d head back be shipping that off to the museum to soon.” see how I could I n 2 0 0 8 , t h e Ron Moore, who lives near Darlington, puts the finishing touches make corrections. Moores moved to on an oil painting. [Photo by Dianna Troyer] I started out with the Lost River Valley watercolors and after selling their ranch near Elk Mountain. pen-and-ink sketches, and to be honest, some “Some zillionaire wanted to own the ranches looked pretty bad. They’re unforgiving if you make on and around Elk Mountain, so he made offers a mistake. Later, I tried oil paintings. I like that mepeople couldn’t refuse. Besides, a coal gasification dium because you can cover up your mistakes.” plant was coming in that would employ about 700 While he was an outfitter in Colorado, Washpeople, so we decided it was time to leave. We ington, and Arizona, some professional artists saw didn’t want to be around that.” his work. They looked for property in Idaho, so they could “They encouraged me to quit hunting so much be near their daughters in Boise and Bellevue and and focus on my art. I love both.” settled on the Lost River Valley for its scenery. Friends and art gallery owners bought his “People ask us, ‘Why here?’ We just knew it drawings and paintings, until he eventually caught was the right place,” says Ron, who sold his cattle the attention of Lazart Production Inc., a company recently, so he could devote more time to his art. that makes laser-cut metal wall art. “It’s hard for people who don’t live here to believe, “I have no idea how they heard of my work, but but I guarantee the light on those mountains is dif- they found me about 20 years ago. For years, I’d ferent every single day. The light patterns in this send them a pencil drawing of horses or wildlife or valley are amazing, and we never tire of it.” cattle, and then they’d turn it into a piece of metal Ron has always worked with equal ease in two art, mass produce it, and send me a royalty check.” worlds, in front of an easel and in a saddle, like the Ron’s prized paintings, pen-and-ink sketches artists he admires most, Charlie Russell, Frederic and watercolors of the West hang in countless pubRemington, and Will James. lic venues. His most priceless paintings, however, “I’ve drawn ever since I was kid. I always got hang in private, at his home in Darlington.

“He’d probably sell some of these off the wall, but I won’t let him. I like looking at them too much,” says Christie, a retired teacher who paints murals and caricatures in her spare time. “I just dabble. Ron’s the real artist. People who buy his art often tell us his paintings are inspiring and relaxing.” His inspiring artwork has ended up in unexpected places. A painting of “Lonesome Dove” characters camped in Palo Duro Canyon south of Amarillo hangs in a bed and breakfast where Larry McMurtry, author of the popular western novel, often goes in Archer City, Texas. “He’s a friend of the bed and breakfast owner because they grew up together, so sometimes he’ll stop in to visit,” Ron says. “The owner was also a teacher and a friend of Christie’s, so I painted that for her.” A pen-and-ink sketch highlighted with watercolors of a saddled horse standing outside a courthouse was selected for the cover of a book about the history of Montague County in Texas. An oil painting of tipis clustered beneath a mountainous meadow was purchased by the chief executive officer of Nokona Athletic Goods. Ron says his artistic bucket list is endless. “I’m writing and illustrating a book about my life, too. It’s taken me about two years to write 10 chapters, and it’s one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. Besides that, I still have a lot of paintings to do.” ISI

Would You Take This Call Please Submitted by Julie Hollar Brantley Several men were in the locker room of a private club after exercising. Suddenly a cell phone on one of the benches rang. One of the men picked it up. “Hello? Honey, It’s me. Are you at the club?” “Yes,” the man replied. “Great! I am at the mall two blocks from where you are. I saw a beautiful mink coat. It is gorgeous! Can I buy it?” asked the woman on the phone. “What’s the price?” “Only $1,500.” “Well, Okay, go ahead and get it,” he replied. “Ahhh and I also stopped by the Mercedes dealership and saw the 2013 models. I saw one I really liked. The salesman quoted me a really good price... and since we need to exchange the BMW that we bought last year, I thought...” “What price did he offer you?” asked the man. “Only $72,000,” she replied. “Okay, but I want it with all the options.” “Great! Before we hang up, one other thing.” “What?” “It might look like a lot, but I was reconciling your bank account and well, I stopped by the real estate agent this morning and I saw the house we had looked at last year. It’s on sale! Remember? The one with a pool, English garden, acre of park area, and beachfront,” she said excitedly. “How much are they asking?” he inquired. “Only $550,000. It’s a magnificent price, and I

see that we have that much in the bank to cover it.” “Well, go ahead but just offer $490,000. Okay?” “Okay, sweetie. Thanks! I’ll see you later. I love you!” “Bye... I do too.” The man hung up, closed the phone’s cover, held up the phone, looked around the locker room, and asked, “Does anyone know whose phone this is?” ISI

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