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Doug Toland and the Green Monster By Cate Huisman Doug Toland arrives for an interview at Kokanee Coffee House in Sandpoint with a brown cardboard box. As the interview proceeds, he removes smaller boxes from it, and from each of them, a cloth bundle. The crystals that emerge from the bundles are of such extraordinary size and beauty that the interview cannot proceed, as the crystals do not go unnoticed by those at surrounding tables. “That’s gorgeous” is a standard response to the multifaceted groupings of greenish, black, and white stones that Doug collects. Doug is retired from a career as an environmental scientist in Alaska and now lives south of Sandpoint. But he continues to spend July and August of each year in the cold and rain of what passes for summer on Prince of Wales Island off the Alaskan coast near Juneau. For more than 40 years, he has been searching this windswept, rain-soaked island for crystals, particularly epidotes for which the area is known. The crystals come from Green Monster Mountain, where Doug and partner Tom Hanna own a mining claim. He is not sure how the mountain got its name, but he suspects it has something to do with its inhospitable nature. “It’s a terrible place,” Doug says frankly. “The hillside where we work on the south is exposed to the full brunt of the weather, and the bugs are horrific. The rain tends to drive away the bugs, so we look forward to rain. Drizzle is best.” What could drive a man to spend his summers in such a locale? Doug does not believe, as some do, that crystals have spiritual qualities or can improve one’s health, and he will not represent them as having such properties. But he does believe that the emotional response to them is therapeutic. “It’s like holding a Monet or a Renoir,” he says. “There’s a wonderful, joyous feeling of possessing something of beauty.” (Continued on page 19)

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JUNE/JULY 2013

Visitors Love Idaho And The Idaho Senior Independent

Article Brings Back Fond Memories

Hello there! We’ve been traveling all around this beautiful state of Idaho and just happened to pick up your newspaper. We had not heard of it before but certainly glad we’ve discovered it! Both of us really enjoyed reading this issue, so many interesting articles on such varied subjects! I’m going to really “splurge” and plunk down a whole $10 (what a bargain) and subscribe to your paper for a gift for my hubby’s upcoming 70th birthday. Looking forward to future issues of your great little newspaper. Kay Kunzler Creston, CA

Love the Idaho Senior Independent newspaper. Really loved the notes to the milkman. My spouse delivered milk in Palo Alto in the late 1960s when people really had their milk delivered. Those were the good old days! Sharon Day Santa ISI

Reviewed by Connie Daugherty Poetic Justice: a Memoir by Byron Johnson; Limberlost Press, Boise, ID; 2011 “Now I would like to try to tell you how my love of poetry and my search for justice sum up my life,” writes Byron Johnson in the prologue of his memoir, Poetic Justice. The title is a clever play on words by a man whose lifelong “hidden passion” was to write poetry but who made his living and reputation in the practice of the law and spent ten years as a justice on the Idaho Supreme Court. In Poetic Justice, former Justice Johnson combines poetry, photos, and personal anecdotes to create an interesting and very readable history of his life. Along the way, the reader gets a glimpse

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.

Jack W. Love, Jr., Publisher/Editor Colleen Paduano Dan Hubbard Lisa Gebo Jonathan Rimmel Sherrie Smith Nann Parrett

Office Manager Advertising Sales Production Supervisor/Sales Graphic Designer Admin/Production Assistant Editing Assistant

Contributing Writers Natalie Bartley Connie Daugherty Holly Endersby Clare Hafferman Cate Huisman Gail Jokerst Bernice Karnop Craig Larcom Liz Larcom Jack McNeel Michael McGough Dianna Troyer © 2013

behind the scene of Idaho politics, law, and the justice system. Johnson begins his memoir with some personal family history – a poem painting a vivid then-andnow picture. “quackgrass garden – rowless growing – no carrots, radishes, peas, beans, cabbage, corn – sunken fishless pond – rimmed with cinder rocks – where a family picture, willow chairs – 1935 – father, mother, four children.” Also in chapter one, Beginnings, he gives us a perspective of his place and time in the world. “World War II started when I was just four years old. My friends and I played ‘war’ all the time.” He also recalls how important his “relationship with God” was during his younger days. In August of

1955, he “left Boise on a Greyhound bus bound for Boston… took a taxi… into Harvard Square… wondering what I had gotten myself into.” In chapter two, Harvard, Johnson details his years at the prestigious university as a scholarship student. “My freshman year at Harvard was full of intellectual excitement and stimulation… also a time of great anxiety.” Johnson began keeping a journal during these years and in 1958 he wrote, “The great myth was that Byron Johnson was more than human. He is not… I had to accept this.” Johnson continued on to Harvard Law School where he learned to think like a lawyer, which forced him to “analyze the cases to try to understand the principles that the court was applying

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in each case.” By the time Johnson finished law school, he was married with two children, and he had to make some decisions. “I went to law school not with the thought of getting wealthy from the practice of law, but with the idealism… representing those charged with crime.” However, he had to support a family. So, in June 1962, he “drove six days across country to Boise to settle down and find a job.” In July, he started his first job as “an associate with the firm of Elam, Burke, Jeppesen & Evans,” and began studying for the Idaho bar exam. This third chapter focuses on the most memorable of the cases – both large and small – that Johnson handled between 1962 and 1988. He adds interest to the telling by including pieces of poetry along with the tales of justice. In chapter four, Johnson discusses his involvement with politics even recalling his involvement in young Republicans during high school. However, “during my first two years at Harvard, I began to question my own political beliefs… when I returned

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to Idaho in 1962, I considered myself to be an independent,” he writes. It wasn’t long after his return, however, that he found himself involved with the Democratic Party activities. In 1968, he attended the Democratic presidential convention in Chicago and found himself wandering among antiwar protestors. He explains the experience in a poem he titles, Thirty Caliber – 1968. In 1971, he ran for the U.S. senate but lost. By 1974, his involvement with politics had taken a toll on his marriage, and he and his wife, Marie, separated and Johnson, “swore off politics and involvement in community organizations… for more than five years.” In chapter five, Johnson writes about the vicissitudes of this part of his life. “I did what I felt was necessary,” he writes. “Unfortunately, the forces that brought Marie and me together in 1959 were not strong enough to survive the perils I had created in our marriage.” He and Marie were divorced and a few years later, he married Patricia. Chapter six details Johnson’s experiences practicing law as well as his historic research in Idaho City. “One of my objectives in setting up an office in Idaho City was to make another attempt to become the Boise County Public Defender,” he explains. His attempt succeeded, and even though he “was losing money every hour worked as public defender,” he insists that he “enjoyed the regular flow of criminal defense work.” After he married Patricia, he moved to Idaho City. “I never intended to be a judge,” Johnson writes in chapter seven. However, in 1987, Byron Johnson was appointed to the Idaho Supreme Court.

In detailed prose and in poetry he recalls the 10 years he served as a justice giving readers an interesting insight into the workings of the court. “The cornerstone of my jurisprudence was the doctrine of stare decisis… the court should follow its own prior decisions,” he writes. “I was privileged during my tenure to be one of those empowered to render justice through the deciding of individual cases. There was little poetry in what I did.” In the final chapters of the book, Johnson introduces readers to Byron Johnson the man. In the poem, My Place in the Universe, he writes, “I am just a mountain man at heart – I love the mornings when the sun shines – on the trees in the woods as the world – wakes up from the dark and cold…” He also finds his voice as a poet more in these final chapters, telling his tale more often through poetry than prose. “Outdoor adventures have enhanced my life and perspective of the world immensely,” he writes. “Without understanding this part of me, you will never know who I really am.” In 1999, Johnson was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Although he is aware of the disease’s progression, he has not given in to his symptoms. He continues to travel with his wife, and he continues to write. “I have turned to this memoir as a way of finding a new perspective on myself and my poetry,” Byron Johnson writes. “And to leave a glimpse of me for… future generations who may wish to understand their roots.” While Poetic Justice is a memoir of one man’s life, it is also a history of politics and the practice of law in Idaho and therefore interesting reading for anyone. ISI

Ann Margret... Viet Nam 1966 Author Unknown Richard (my husband) never really talked a lot about his time in Viet Nam, even though he had been shot by a sniper. However, he had a rather grainy, 8”x10” black and white photo he had taken at a USO show of Ann Margret with Bob Hope in the background that was one of his treasures. A few years ago, Ann Margret was doing a book signing at a local bookstore. Richard wanted to see if he could get her to sign the treasured photo so he arrived at the bookstore at 12 o’clock for the 7:30 signing. When I got there after work, the line went all the way around the bookstore, circled the parking lot, and disappeared behind a parking garage. Before her appearance, bookstore employees

announced that she would sign only her book and no memorabilia would be permitted. Richard was disappointed, but wanted to show her the photo and let her know how much those shows meant to lonely GIs so far from home. Ann Margret came out looking as beautiful as ever and, as second in line, it was soon Richard’s turn. He presented the book for her signature and then took out the photo. When he did, there were many shouts from the employees that she would not sign it. Richard said, “I understand. I just wanted her to see it.” She took one look at the photo, tears welled up in her eyes, and she said, “This is one of my gentlemen from Viet Nam and I most certainly will sign his photo. I know what these men did for their country and I always have time for my gentlemen.’’ With that, she pulled Richard across the table and planted a big kiss on him. She then made quite a to do about the bravery of the young men she met over the years, how much she admired them, and how much she appreciated them. There weren’t

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too many dry eyes among those close enough to hear. She then posed for pictures and acted as if he were the only one there. That night was a turning point for him. He walked a little straighter and, for the first time in years, was proud to have been a Viet Nam vet. I’ll never forget Ann Margret for her graciousness and how much that small act of kindness meant to my husband. Later at dinner, Richard was very quiet. When I asked if he’d like to talk about it, my big, strong husband broke down in tears. ‘’That’s the first time anyone ever thanked me for my time in the Army,’’ he said. I now make it a point to say, “Thank you” to every person I come across who served in our Armed Forces. Freedom does not come cheap and I am grateful for all those who have served their country. On behalf of those who appreciate all that you did for us, I say, “Thank you” to all who have served or are serving our country in the armed services or any other service. If you don’t stand behind our troops, please, feel free to stand in front of them! ISI

Veterans Service Listings By Bernice Karnop Veterans of World War II, Viet Nam, and Korea know the challenges of making the transition from military to civilian life. This group also knows that there are valuable resources available that can ease the process for many years to come. As children or grandchildren return home from the current wars, older family members may wish to point them to organizations that can help them and their families. Some services are state and some are national. All are listed alphabetically following listings for outpatient and community based VA services. VA Services – Caldwell: (208) 454-4820; Coeur d’Alene: (208) 6651700; Grangeville: (208) 983-4671; Mountain Home: (208) 580-2001; Salmon: (208) 756-8515; Sandpoint: (208) 263-0450; Twin Falls: (208) 732-0959. AfterDeployment.org – This web site has more than a dozen wellness resources for the whole family. Boise VA Medical Center – www.boise.va.gov; 208-422-1000; Telephone care – 866-437-5093 or 208-422-1000; Honoring America’s Veterans with quality health care services, part of the largest integrated health care system in the U.S. Boise Vet Center – 208-342-3612 or 877-927-8387; Pocatello Vet Center – 208-232-0316 or 877-927-8387. Boise Veteran’s Home – 208-246-8736; Idaho State Veteran’s Home Lewiston – 208-750-3975; Pocatello Veteran’s Home – 208-236-1209. Coaching into Care – mirecc.va.gov/coaching/services.asp; 888-8237458; free and confidential coaching service to help callers discover new ways to talk with their Veteran about their concerns and about treatment options. Idaho Division of Veterans Services – www.veterans.idaho.gov; 208577-2310; provides contact information all veteran benefit offices and Federal veteran programs. Idaho State Veterans Cemetery, Boise – 208-334-4796 Job Assistance – http://www.idaho.gov/job_labor/job.html; provides qualified Veterans and transitioning service members with the resources and services to succeed in the 21st Century market demands.

National Cemetery Association – www.cem.va.gov RCS Combat Call Center – 1-877-927-8387 (WAR VETS); Provides 24 hour, 7 day a week referral services to all veterans, their families, and any concerned citizens who are trying to assist veterans. Upward Bound – 1-877-356-VETS; http:vubmt.com; assistance with achieving educational goals. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs – www1.va.gov; The US Department of Veterans Affairs provides patient care and federal benefits to veterans and their dependents. VA Caregiver Support Line – 1-855-2603274; licensed caring professionals available to tell callers about the assistance available from VA including access services and benefits. For local Caregiver Support Contact at www.caregiver. va.gov VA General Information hotline – 1-800-8271000. VA Hotline on VA Health Care and Benefits for Women Veterans – 1-855-829-6636, 1-855-VA-WOMEN; The Department of Veterans Affairs new hotline to receive and respond to questions from Veterans, their families and caregivers about the many VA services and resources available to women Veterans. Veteran’s Crisis Hotline – 1-800-273-8255; www.veteranscrisishotline.net; Free, confidential support for Veterans in crisis and their families and friends; chat online 24/7/365. ISI

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Last issue our quiz was about birds so it seems appropriate that with summer here we should have this issue’s quiz cover flowers. Now is the time, whether in town or out in the woods, that you will be able to see many brilliantly colored and oh so fragrant flowers. Match These Flowers was submitted by Jean Carr of Twin Falls. Congratulations, Jean! Thank you to all who participated in our State Birds quiz that appeared in the April/May issue. The winner selected from the correct answers submitted is Joyce Reas, of Burley winner of our $25 cash prize. Two $25 cash prizes are awarded from the “Contest Corner” in each issue of the Idaho Senior Independent. One prize goes to the person

JUNE/JULY 2013

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 July 10, 2013 for our August/September 2013 edition. Be sure to work the crossword puzzle on our website www.idahoseniorindependent.com.

Match These State Flowers Submitted by Jean Carr, Twin Falls Listed below are the names of twenty states followed by the names of twenty flowers. Match the letter of the flower in the blank next to the correct numbered state. Send your answers to us at the address or email address listed above. You may be the winner of this issue’s cash prize. The States 1. Alabama ___ 2. Alaska ___ 3. Arizona ___ 4. Arkansas ___ 5. California ___ 6. Colorado ___ 7. Hawaii ___ 8. Idaho ___ 9. Kansas ___ 10. Montana ___ 11. Nevada ___ 12. New Mexico ___ 13. Nebraska ___ 14. Oregon ___ 15. Oklahoma ___ 16. Texas ___ 17. Utah ___

18. Washington 19. Wisconsin 20. Wyoming

___ ___ ___

The Flowers A. Sunflower B. Oregon Grape C. Sagebrush D. Rhododendron E. Camellia F. Blue Bonnet G. Indian Paintbrush H. Goldenrod I. Apple Blossom J. Forget-Me-Not K. Yellow Hibiscus L. Bitterroot M. Sego Lily N. Golden Poppy O. Syringa P. Mistletoe Q. Wood Violet R. Yucca S. Saguaro Cactus T. Rocky Mountain Columbine ISI

Answers to Official State Birds 1. c. Northern Flicker 2. a. Willow Ptarmigan 3. a. Cactus Wren 4. b. California Quail 5. c. Mockingbird 6. a. Lark Bunting 7. a. Blue Hen Chicken 8. b. Northern Mockingbird

9. b. Brown Thrasher 10. a. Hawaiian Goose 11. b. Western Meadowlark 12. b. American Robin 13. c. Northern Cardinal 14. b. Willow Goldfinch 15. a. Northern Cardinal ISI

ACROSS 1. Kingdom in South Pacific 6. Worn on shoulders 9. *Lena Horne’s venue, “Cotton ____” 13. Poppy seed derivative 14. Chemist’s office? 15. Picture 16. Out of style 17. Roswell subject 18. Relating to tones 19. *Germany’s chancellor 21. *It caused the Dust Bowl of the 1930s 23. “___’em!” to a dog 24. Fine print add-ons 25. Latissimus dorsi, for short 28. *Palo ____, where Hewlett-Packard was formed 30. Golf headgear, pl. 35. Yemeni port 37. Call to a mate 39. Scatter 40. All’s opposite 41. Alexander the Great to Aristotle, e.g. 43. Sasquatch’s cousin? 44. *”The _____ Hornet” 46. *J. Edgar Hoover’s man 47. Garner wages 48. Main dish 50. Riyadh native 52. *Spot of “Dick and Jane,” e.g. 53. Small songbird 55. *Lincoln-Zephyr, or Mercury, e.g. 57. *FDR’s brainchild 61. *German invasion of Poland, e.g.

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64. Distinctive spirit of a culture 65. Bird-to-be 67. Often measured by the hour 69. Bloodhound’s clue 70. Tax preparer, for short 71. Island surrounded by a lagoon 72. *George and Ira Gershwin’s “Of ____ I Sing” 73. Craggy peak 74. Dapper

DOWN 1. Spinning toy 2. a.k.a. kingfish or sunfish 3. Not yet final 4. Wind bursts 5. *She flew solo 6. Hangover memory? 7. Stupid person 8. Often described as humble 9. Cabbage in France 10. *Louisiana’s Huey ____

11. Beehive State 12. World’s fastest man 15. Droopy eyelid condition 20. Audience’s approval 22. R in rpm 24. William or Alfred on “Downton Abbey” 25. *”Migrant Mother” photographer 26. Decorate 27. Religious doctrine 29. Hoodlum 31. Eye sore 32. Mountain nymph 33. Reminiscent of the past 34. *Benny Goodman’s style 36. ____-do-well 38. *1934, e.g. 42. Roleplay 45. Most new 49. *Depression ___ 51. *Caped Crusader 54. Choose

Life Can Be A Little Easier With These Homemaking Tips Submitted by Julie Hollar Brantley Food Storage Tips – Take your bananas apart when you get home from the store. If you leave them connected at the stem, they ripen faster. Store your opened chunks of cheese in aluminum foil. The cheese will stay fresh much longer and will not mold. Cooking Tips – Green peppers with three bumps on the bottom are sweeter and better for eating. Green peppers with four bumps on the bottom are firmer and better for cooking. Add a teaspoon of water when frying ground beef. It will help pull the grease away from the meat while cooking. To make scrambled eggs or omelets rich, add a couple of spoonfuls of sour cream, cream cheese, or heavy cream before beating them. Add garlic immediately to a recipe if you want a lighter garlic taste and at the end of the recipe if you want a more garlicky taste. Reheating Pizza – Heat leftover pizza in a nonstick skillet on top of the stove. Set heat to medium-low and heat until warm. This keeps the crust crispy. No more soggy microwave pizza. Easy Deviled Eggs – Put cooked egg yolks in a sealed plastic bag. Mash until they are all broken. Add remaining ingredients, reseal, and mash thoroughly. Then, cut the tip of the baggy and squeeze mixture into egg white. Just throw the bag away when you are done for easy clean up. Reheating Refrigerated Bread – To warm biscuits, pancakes, or muffins that have been refrigerated, place them in the microwave next to a cup of water. The increased moisture will keep the food moist and help it reheat faster. Weeds Be Gone – Start putting torn newspaper in your plants, working the nutrients into your soil. Wet newspapers and put layers of them around the plants, overlapping as you go. Cover with mulch and forget about weeds. Weeds will get through some gardening plastic, but they will not get through wet newspapers. Broken Glass – Use a wet cotton ball or Q-tip to pick up the small shards of glass you cannot see easily. Flexible Vacuum – To get something out of a heat register or from under the fridge, attach an empty paper towel or gift wrap roll to your vacuum. It can be bent or flattened to get in narrow openings. Reducing Static Cling – Pin a small safety pin to the seam of your slip and you will no longer have a clingy skirt or dress. The same thing works with slacks that cling when you are wearing panty hose. Place pin in seam of slacks and - voila! - static is gone. Measuring Cups – Before you pour a sticky substance into a measuring cup, fill it with hot water. Dump out the hot water, but do not dry the cup. Next, add your ingredient (peanut butter, honey, etc.) and watch how easily it comes out of the cup.

Foggy Windshield – Hate foggy windshields? Buy a chalkboard eraser and keep it in the glove box of your car. When the windows fog, rub them with the eraser. It works better than a cloth! Re-opening An Envelope – If you seal an envelope and then realize you forgot to include something inside, just place your sealed envelope in the freezer for an hour or two. It unseals easily. Conditioner – Use your hair conditioner to shave your legs. It is cheaper than shaving cream and leaves your legs feeling smooth. It is also a great way to use up the conditioner you bought but did not like when you tried it in your hair. Goodbye Fruit Flies – To get rid of annoying fruit flies, take a small glass, fill it 1/2 full with apple cider vinegar, and add 2 drops of dish washing liquid. Mix well. You will find those flies drawn to the cup and gone forever! Get Rid Of Ants – Put small piles of cornmeal where you see ants. They eat it and take it ‘home.’ But they cannot digest it, so it kills them. It may take a week or so, especially if it rains, but it works. The best part is that you do not have to worry about pets or small children being harmed by the pest-killer. ISI

IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 7

56. Indian restaurant condiment 57. Egg holder 58. Carve, as in stone 59. Cry of glee 60. Over 61. Biology lab supply 62. Blood coagulate 63. Same as Celt 66. Government Printing Office 68. Like a fox ISI

PAGE 8 IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT

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We can all remember our favorite childhood pets and the pleasure and joy they brought to us and to our families. They were masters of tricks and games and the source of endless fun. And the love... little can compare to those feeling we’ve had for our animal cherished companions. Our winning Remember When selection Dugan by Corinne Moyers of Nampa is an engaging look into her memories of ten years that Dugan spent with her family when she was a child. Congratulations and thank you, Corinne! Remember When contains our readers’ personal reflections, contributions describing fictional or non-fictional accounts from the “Good ol’ Days,” 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 August/September 2013 issue. Mail your correspondence to Idaho Senior Independent, P.O. Box 3341, Great Falls, MT 59403; email to idahoseniorind@bresnan.net; or call 1-866-360-5683 or 208-318-0310. Visit us online at www.idahoseniorindependent.com.

Dugan By Corinne Moyers, Nampa Dugan came to us one fall day, a small bundle of yellow fur that could be held in two small hands. A classmate was giving away two small terrier puppies, one named Dixie, the other Dugan – from the funny papers characters. Dugan was wrapped in a piece of sheet and tucked into my lumber jacket to stay warm on the way home. Going into the house, I didn’t immediately take off my jacket, but wandered around trying to decide how best to announce Dugan’s presence. Of course, Mother wanted to know why I didn’t take off my jacket and stay awhile. Mother had said, “’No dogs, a cat is enough’ and so she blustered a bit. ‘If you take care of him...!’” So Dugan joined the big white cat as part of our family. Of course, because we were in school, Mom had to clean up after him until he got the right idea. Dad trained him to do tricks. Dad worked nights and got home about midnight, had a glass of milk and some graham crackers or cookies before he went to bed. Of course, Dugan helped him. When Dad held his hand out in a fist, Dugan sat up; when he tilted his hand up from the wrist, Dugan stood up; when he turned his hand over

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to the right or left, Dugan rolled over to the right or left. Many years later, when he was getting lame, Dugan would turn over twice to the right so he wouldn’t have to turn over to the left. One Easter, two rabbits became part of the family, a black one, and a white one. When they got out, Dugan very carefully herded the white rabbit back, standing with one foot on its back until somebody came to do something about it. Dugan herded the white leghorns that got out of the neighbor’s pens and brought them to put in the pens of white leghorns that Mother had. She kept counting more chickens than she thought she had until she discovered what the problem was. One year we drove from Boise to Portland, stopping at Hood River for lunch. Dad reminded us to roll up our windows so Dugan couldn’t get out. We were just about through with lunch when Dad remembered that he hadn’t rolled up his window. Sure enough, when we got to the car, there was no Dugan. So we spread out to look for him. It wasn’t necessary, he was coming back to the car because he couldn’t find us, and he knew eventually we would also come back to the car. Dugan didn’t like boys or men – the boys teased him, the mailman kicked at him, the milkman shook milk bottles at him, and of course, he barked shrilly at all of them. He also barked at the classmate who had given Dugan to me – because she was wearing white slacks and he just didn’t like people in trousers. He would allow the year-old toddler next door to walk over him, but when the children were big enough to know better, he wouldn’t tolerate them. Rarely had we used a leash on him, but one evening he had followed a group of us going to town. When we discovered him, it was too far to go back. One of the fellows used a belt as a leash and Dugan walked sedately in front of us, just as far as the belt would allow him. One day, I found a small rubber horseshoe, which just fit Dugan’s neck. Whenever we put the horseshoe on his neck, he would walk sedately ahead of us about two feet – the length the belt had allowed him to walk. He thought either he was on a leash, or he was helping us think he thought he was on a leash. Dugan went swimming with us, flopping into the water whenever we did. Many of our dives ended in a belly flop because Dugan would dive at the same time and trip us. Once we were swimming in the big Ridenbaugh, not too far from the checks. The angle was right so we could dive in on one side and the current took us down to a place on the other side where we could get out. Dugan wasn’t quite powerful enough of a swimmer, and the water took him down to the checks. One of the boys who teased him the most grabbed Dugan by the scruff of the neck, just as he would have gone over the checks. It didn’t matter that the boy had saved his life, he still barked at him whenever he saw him. The dining room window was Dugan and the cat’s doorway. When he wanted out, he stood with his paws on the windowsill; when he wanted in, he barked at the window. The height was just right for him to jump in and out. One year Dad and his brother raised the house and put a basement under it. Dugan was baffled, he could jump out the window, but he couldn’t jump back in. Dugan’s bed was in the back porch, so when the house was raised, the area under the porch was boxed in. Dad left a panel out, covered it with a piece of canvas, so Dugan could come in through it and a riser was taken out and replaced with a piece of burlap to keep out the wind. Dugan could go and come as he pleased. Dugan’s answer to any hurt that he incurred was to take a bath, because that is what Mother did whenever he came in all banged up. As he grew older, his eyes got dimmer and his hearing became less. He thought the road in front of the house was his domain and he would stretch out there in the warm sunshine whenever and wherever he felt like it. As years went by the traffic on the road increased and a car hit him. He dragged himself into the house and went to the bathroom asking for a bath. That wasn’t the answer. He was hurt so badly that Mother was afraid to handle him, but made him a warm spot under the range. And that was where Dugan left our family after his ten-year visit. ISI

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Garden Revival By Melinda Myers Spring floods, summer droughts, and temperature extremes take their toll on gardens and the gardeners who tend them. Help your gardens recover from the crazy temperature and moisture extremes that seem to occur each year. Start by assessing the current condition of your landscape. Remove dead plants as soon as possible. They can harbor insect and disease organisms that can infest your healthy plantings. Consider replacing struggling plants with healthy plants better suited to the space, growing conditions, and landscape design. You often achieve better results in less time by starting over rather

than trying to nurse a sick plant back to health. As always, select plants suited to the growing environment and that includes normal rainfall. Every season is different, but selecting plants suited to the average conditions will minimize the care needed and increase your odds for success. Roses, coneflowers, sedums, and zinnias are just a few drought tolerant plants. Elderberry, ligularia, Siberian iris, and marsh marigold are a few moisture tolerant plants. Be prepared for worse case scenario. Install an irrigation system, such as the Snip-n-drip soaker system, in the garden. It allows you to apply water directly to the soil alongside plants. This means less water wasted to evaporation, wind and overhead watering. You’ll also reduce the risk of disease by keeping water off the plant leaves. A properly installed and managed irrigation system will help save water. The convenience makes it easy to water thoroughly, encouraging deep roots, and only when needed. Turn the system on early in the day while you tend to other gardening and household chores. You’ll waste less water to evaporation and save time since the system does the watering for you. Capture rainwater and use it to water container and in-ground gardens. Rain barrels and cisterns have long been used for this purpose and are experiencing renewed interest. Look for these features when buying or making your own rain barrel. Make sure the spigot is located

close to the bottom so less water collects and stagnates. Select one that has a screen over the opening to keep out debris. And look for an overflow that directs the water into another barrel or away from the house. Add a bit of paint to turn your rain barrel into a piece of art. Or tuck it behind some containers, shrubs or a decorative trellis. Just make sure it is easy to access. Be sure to mulch trees and shrubs with shredded bark or woodchips to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and reduce competition from nearby grass. You’ll eliminate hand trimming while protecting trunks and stems from damaging weed whips and mowers. Invigorate weather worn perennials with compost and an auger bit. Spread an inch of compost over the soil surface. Then use an auger bit, often used for planting bulbs, and drill the compost into the soil in open areas throughout the garden. You’ll help move the compost to the root zone of the plants and aerate the soil with this one activity. A little advance planning and preparation can reduce your workload and increase your gardening enjoyment. Gardening expert, TV/radio host, author & columnist Melinda Myers has more than 30 years of horticulture experience and has written over 20 gardening books. Myers web site is www.melindamyers.com. ISI

Smart Homes Enable People To Comfortably Age In Place A refrigerator that monitors food consumption and can detect expired food items is a complex piece of technology that seems to belong more in a science fiction film than the average American household. But as the technology we use within our homes advances, the definition of these commonplace items and appliances are beginning to take on new meaning. Referred to as “smart homes,” these structures can be designed or updated with a variety of advanced electronic and technological features. Microsoft chair Bill Gates’ home in

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Seattle, Washington is likely the most famous of the smart home models, with rooms that can adjust lighting, temperature, and even music, depending on the inhabitant’s mood. Less extravagant and more affordable alternatives exist. These highly advanced shelters can add safety, convenience, security, and assistance to a growing population of Americans that is becoming less independent in terms of their care, but also hesitant to leave their homes: • Smart mirror: The master bathroom mirror displays important messages or reminders – for

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example, to take medication – when needed. This technology could be expanded to other rooms. • Smart stove: A boon for fire safety, this device will monitor stove usage and alert the occupant, via the smart bed, if the stove has been left on. • Smart floor: Sensors in the floor identify and track the location of all house occupants, which can lead to detection of a person who has fallen and in need of assistance and a report to emergency services.

IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 11

Smart home technology can provide an incredible alternative for people to “Age in Place,” giving them the ability to live in their home safely regardless of age. With a network of over 5,000 builders certified by the National Association of Home Builders’ (NAHB) Certified Aging-In-Place Specialists (CAPS) Program, smart home upgrades are more accessible and more affordable than ever before. And combined low-ticket price and easy installation make it clear that smart homes are the future of aging in place. For more information on the benefits of smart

homes, check out Betsy Vierck’s article “Smart Homes: The Future is Here” in the CSA Journal (http://www.csa.us/CSAJournal.aspx). About Society of Certified Senior Advisors (SCSA): SCSA educates and certifies professionals to work more effectively with their older clients. As the leading provider of certification for these professionals, SCSA’s Certified Senior Advisor (CSA)® credential requires CSAs to uphold the highest ethical standards. For more information about SCSA, the CSA credential, and SCSA’s education program, visit www.csa. us. ISI

Are you at Risk of Falling? As we start to age, balance and coordination can affect our overall health. Few people realize, until after the fact, that a fall can set a person back for months and can even lead to death. Falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries to older people in the United States. More than one-third of adults ages 65 years and older (about 12 million people) fall each year. Here is a simple checklist to see if you, or someone you love, is at risk for falling and tips on possible ways to prevent one from happening. 1. Do You Walk With a full gait? This means that your foot should travel behind your pelvis before you lift it to move your foot forward. When you are able to do this, your balance is good. You should be able to stand and dress yourself and go up and down stairs without much thought. 2. Do You Have a short gait? This means that your feet don’t go past you or your pelvis. This can mean that you might need to hold onto something to dress yourself and you need to think about going up and down stairs with added support. 3. Do You Shuffle? This means that you no longer pick your feet up to walk. Your balance system is minimal. You may require high blood pressure medication. You can no long fully dress yourself in standing. You can only go up and down stairs one at a time. 4. Do You Have a death grip? Are you holding onto the steering wheel as if you are going to take it with you? If you have a cane or a walker, do you use a full grip with both hands? It’s difficult to get in and out of chairs, a booth, or your car. 5. Are Your fingers constantly splayed as if you were drying your nails? If so, this means that you have already fallen or have come very close on several occasions. You system is startled and is already bracing for impact. If your hands are in this position while you are sleeping, you may have fallen, possibly more than

once, and you can’t relax, even when you are lying down. 6. Do you touch the walls or furniture? Do you need to touch something to make sure that you stand up? 7. Are you a wounded bird? Do you walk around with one or both arms bent as if you were carrying around a purse? If you answered yes to number one then you should have answered no to the rest. Your conscious brain is neither worrying nor has concern for your balance. If you answered no to the first one and yes to one or more of questions 2-7, consider the following: • Check your medications: All medications have side effects. Many medications can cause drowsiness, headaches, poor coordination, and other symptoms in relation to balance. • Clear the runway. This is a good time to look at your home from your car to your bedroom. Is there a brick missing from the front steps? Do you have rugs that curl in the corner? Do you need to navigate around furniture? Even if you are too young to fall, you might be putting a visitor at risk. • Eliminate close calls: Do you frequently find yourself thinking about how to get out of the shower? This would be a great time to put in a support bar. • Look at your feet: I’m sure that I’m not the first person to recommend a good tie shoe. Shoes that are worn, too high, or too loose can lead you to the ground. • Work with a movement specialist. People think that going to the gym or working out is the best way to keep your balance. It is if your balance is already healthy and you are maintaining that level. If you have suffered a fall or are starting to worry that you might fall, it’s a good time to work with someone who will personally evaluate where your system might be unorganized and in need of assistance. There will always be a situation that might cause a tumble. If you follow these easy steps, you should be able to keep walking with ease and stability. ISI

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Real Estate: Turning Tides and Real Mortgage Rates “Here’s a ray of good news; for 2012, the CaseShiller Home Price indices showed big gains in average home prices. The 10-City composite was up 7.3% and the 20-City composite was up 8.1%,� says Leon LaBrecque, JD, CPA, CFP, CFA, Chief Strategist and founder of LJPR, a firm managing $514 million* in assets. “19 out of 20 cities showed accelerated gains (Detroit was up 13.8%, but had stopped accelerating). Home prices are now back to their 2003 levels. What we see now is the effect of the Real Mortgage Rate. “In investing, we measure real rate of return as inflation adjusted return. So if you are making 7%, and inflation is 3%, your real rate of return is

4% (this is an oversimplification, but let’s keep the math easy),� says LaBrecque. “Let’s go back to 2006-2007: Remember the ads for mortgages? You could get a mortgage with a check stub, or maybe just saying you had a check stub. Real estate was appreciating at a rate of 16.9%, and mortgage rates were about 6.1%. This was easy: you borrowed money at 6.1% and bought something going up at 16.9%. 6.1% - 16.9% = -10.8%, the real mortgage rate. Your house & mortgage was costing you a negative 10.8%. Now go to 2009. House prices were plunging, dropping 16.7% (weird coincidence). You could borrow money (if you could get it) at 5.1%, but you bought

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a declining asset. 5.1% - (-16.7%) = 21.8%. Your real mortgage rate was 21.8%! No wonder houses weren’t moving. “Now look at today: credit is tight, and mortgages are tough to get, but properties are cheap and going up again,� says LaBrecque. “So the rates are low (due to the Fed and the central banks), and the property is appreciating. Rates are now as low as 3.6%. So doing the math, 3.6% - 8.1% = -4.5%. Your real mortgage rate is negative 4.5% (so in effect you’re making money). “This doesn’t mean go out and buy a house (in fact, the inventories are so low, it’s hard to find one now). It does mean that if you have a mortgage, you may want to try to refinance it, particularly if your current rate is over 4.5%,� says LaBrecque. “The real estate market has apparently turned (or at least stopped declining), mortgage rates are low and as prices increase, mortgages will be easier to get. The affordability of houses is at an all-time high compared to rents; it’s good news.� About Leon LaBrecque: Leon C. LaBrecque is the managing partner and founder of LJPR, LLC, an independent wealth management firm located in Troy, Michigan that manages $514 million in assets (as of 2/28/2013). Leon is a practicing attorney, CPA, CFPŽ and CFA that has specialized in servicing individuals, families, and small businesses in the areas of financial, estate, and tax planning for over 32 years. Leon LaBrecque’s direct e-mail is leon.labrecque@ljpr.com. ISI

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Folk Festival in Butte, Montana July 12-14, 2013 By Bernice Karnop Butte has opened its doors and invites everyone to come on over. Last year there were 150,000 visitors during the Montana Folk Festival and they’re prepared for that many again this year for the July 12-14, 2013 event. If that sounds like too many people for uptown Butte, don’t worry about it. George Everett, Festival Director, reminds people that there used to be 100,000 people living in Butte. “We can handle visitors,” he confidently states. “It feels great when the town is full. It’s reminiscent of Butte in its heyday.” Since its founding, Butte has always been a tossed salad of nationalities and a tangy combination of cultures, languages, and traditions. Butte’s heritage made it the perfect setting for the 70th through the 72nd National Folk Festivals starting in 2008. This annual event started in 1934 and was championed by Eleanor Roosevelt. The idea of combining the folk art, dancing, and music from different nations, languages, and races on one stage and on equal footing, must have raised eyebrows during its first years when segregation was the norm. The early festivals included Blues and Cajun music, Polka bands, Mexican-American tunes and the Peking Opera. After hosting the National Folk Festival, the folks in the Mining City decided to keep going. “It was too much fun so we created the Montana Folk Festival,” says George. People tell him they like it even better than the National Folk Festival. The multi-cultural music continues in the tradition of the National Festival but Montana heritage takes the spotlight in the Folk life and Family areas. The performers for the 2013 Montana Folk Festival come from around the world and are recognized for their excellence. A person would expect to pay more than $50 a ticket to hear them in another venue, but in Butte, the performances are free to all who come, and that is quite an accomplishment. This partial list will give you an idea of the performers and the different types of music coming to Butte. Curious folks can go to the Montana Folk Festival website www.montanafolkfestival.com for a complete list and for links to the performers on YouTube. • Karan Casey and John Doyle, Irish Folk • Khac Chi, Vietnamese Bamboo Music • Nathalie Pires, Portuguese Fado • Canzionere Grecanico Salentino, Italian traditional • Mythili Prakash, South Indian Bharatanatyam dance • Fendika, Ethiopian Dance

• • • • •

Bernard Allison, Blues The Birmingham Sunlights, Gospel Git Hoan Dancers, Native American dancers Henry Butler Trio, New Orleans Piano Jazz Joe Mullins and the Radio Ramblers, Bluegrass • Marshall Ford Swing Band, Western Swing • “Pan” Frenek, Zosia and the Polka Towners, Polka • Wang Li, Chinese Mouth harp This year’s Festival theme is Gathering at the Headwaters: The influence of the Confluence of Rivers and Riparian Lifeways in Montana and the Mountain West. At the Folk Life and Family areas demonstrations, displays, exhibits, performances, and narrative will tell about Montana heritage along the rivers. The Missouri and the Columbia River systems both headwater in Montana and visitors will learn how the rivers and their tributaries affect our lives and our history. Demonstrations include canoe building, trap making, and fishing. Other topics include flying in Montana, dogGlacier National Park sledding, powwows, Conservancy is proud to and horses. Presenters present the 2013 Fall for Glacier event. This year, the will tell railroad stories, event will be at the historic sing railroad songs, and Izaak Walton Inn in Essex, MT give a telegraph operaat the south end of Glacier tions demonstration. ArNational Park. tisans will show how to We have lined up our make boots and how to traditional wide variety of make moccasins. amazing activities such The Art Market disas an all-star cast of great speakers, guided hikes, Red plays the work of the Bus tours and more - as well region’s best traditional as great food and lodging in a artists in woodwork, wonderfully unique setting. painting, furniture making, pottery, photography, and jewelry making, in both traditional and contemporary styles. A wide array of ethnic and festival food will draw festivalgoers to the food court. The Glacier National Park Conservancy is an official non-profit partner of George says the Glacier National Park. This organization is the result of the merger of the Glacier Association and the Glacier National Park Fund. festival is both family

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PAGE 14 IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT

friendly and senior friendly. A shuttle runs between the six stages about every 20 minutes. Those who get tired walking up the hills can flag down one of the intra-festival golf carts that are equipped with passenger seats. Butte sits high on the Continental Divide with a background of head frames, narrow streets, and historic buildings. Butte’s multi-cultural history provides the backdrop for a great event for the whole state of Montana. The Butte festival planners bring the world right to our front door. It’s an opportunity for Montanans to expose their children and grandchildren to a variety of cultures, as well as to enjoy such variety themselves. The Montana Folk Festival is not only for the citizens of Montana. “We love showing off our town,” George Everett says. “This is a great place for out-of-state people to start their visit. After the Montana Folk Festival they can go on to the National Parks or wherever they want to go.” ISI

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Canada Day Celebrations Sparkle North of the Border By Bernice Karnop Don your red and white! Pin on a maple leaf! Pack up the grandchildren and a picnic lunch and head north across the border to peek at how the Canadians celebrate their independence on July 1, Canada Day. While the biggest and loudest celebrations are in the nation’s capital, Ottawa, every little town near the Idaho border goes all out with wonderful and sometimes wacky community celebrations. Small communities in British Columbia and across the country rock on Canada Day! In Rossland, for example, they often start the day with a hike up Mount Roberts. They sing the national anthem, O Canada, at the top while they raise the striking red and white maple leaf flag. After a photo shoot, hikers leisurely trek back down the mountain. By lunchtime, the town fills with the fragrance of cooking burgers. Everyone savors a piece of the national birthday cake and enjoys the music at a live outdoor concert. A few years ago, they topped off the event with a “Clean up You Pet Day” at the new dog wash! These events evolve so you need to check them out as the day draws near, but you will find pancake breakfasts, barbeques, face painting, and fireworks at places like Trail, Castlegar, and Nelson. The long summer daylight gives you plenty of time to hang out, enjoy the weather and compete in bocce tournaments or watch the kid parades in places like Fruitvale, Nakusp, and Crawford Bay. Games for the kids and a slow pitch tournament for adults are part of the celebration in Revelstoke. Some readers may be asking why they have never heard of Canada Day. One reason is our neighbor to the North does not share our history of separation from England. Their independence was not won with boots and bullets. While it took longer, they didn’t mind. In

fact, they have been most relaxed about gaining their independence. Here is a bit of Canada history for you. On July 1, 1867, with the United States just two years away from its Civil War, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and the Province of Canada (now Quebec and Ontario) were united into a single country. They were given a measure of independence from England, which increased gradually over a century. In 1917, Canada celebrated a Golden Anniversary of that event, Canada Day, also known as Dominion Day. Ten years later in 1927, they had another low-key party. Fast forward to 1958. The government recognized Canada Day with the trooping of the Colors on Parliament Hill in Ottawa. Canada Day was not a big deal. Canadians still identified themselves as British. The first countrywide celebration came on Canada’s 100th anniversary in 1967. The weather was fine, the days were long, and it was a perfect time to appreciate what it means to be Canadian. O Canada was named the official National Anthem in 1980. In 1982 remaining dependence on England ended and Canada Day was made an official holiday by a unanimous vote of Parliament. Queen Elizabeth II has been present in Ottawa to give her blessing to Canadian independence several times. The British celebrate Canada Day with an event in Trafalgar Square in London on July 1. Canadian forces celebrate in Afghanistan and other places around the world. We salute Canada on her birthday as well. Canadians have much to honor and appreciate about their unique heritage and history. If you travel to Canada over July 1, you will see that they have, indeed, finally embraced this day of pride and patriotism. ISI

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Article & Photo By Natalie Bartley Northeast Oregon offers rugged, pristine mountains, glittering streams, and forested trails. Find delightful examples of outdoor adventures along the 218-mile Hells Canyon Scenic Byway. It circumnavigates the Wallowa Mountains and consists of four byway segments and three byway side trips. Unlimited options for fishing, bicycling, ATV riding, horseback riding, hiking, and camping dot these byways, so it’s time to start packing! On the eastern portion of the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway is the Wallowa Mountain Loop byway segment (Forest Road No. 39), which serves as a scenic link between Baker City and Joseph, Oregon. It’s a 45-mile paved road passing through three large backcountry areas including the Eagle Cap Wilderness, the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, and the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. Numerous streamside campgrounds and trailheads dot the Wallowa Mountain Loop as it winds northward from its southern starting point ten miles east of the town of Halfway. North of

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the Lake Fork campground is the turn-off for the Hells Canyon Overlook byway segment, a 3-mile paved road culminating with grand views of the Seven Devils Mountains in Idaho. Upon return to the Wallowa Mountain Loop, another detour awaits exploration, starting at the intersection with the paved Forest Road No. 3960. Fish, hike, and camp along this road located next to the sparkling South Fork of the Imnaha River. At the end of the road is the Indian Crossing campground in the Hells Canyon Recreation Area/Wallowa-Whitman National Forest at the edge of the Eagle Cap Wilderness. Hikes of varying lengths originate from the trailhead next to the campground. For a gentle scenic hike in the Eagle Cap Wilderness where bicycles are not permitted, walk two miles along the South Fork of the Imnaha River on Trail No. 1816 to a spot called Blue Hole. Once at the cliffs, peer down into the small river canyon. Or take Trail No. 1875 to Duck Lake in the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area. Start from the campground. The trail meanders through a meadow then heads steeply uphill. At the top, the trail joins dirt roads and leads to a small, forested lake located about two miles from the campground. If visiting mid-summer when they ripen, enjoy a trailside snack of small purple huckleberries. For additional stunning scenery and recreational opportunities, return to the Wallowa Mountain Loop byway segment and continue northwest. Stop at other camping areas near trails, such as the Lick Creek campground, where ATV riders, hikers, and mountain bikers launch outings on the adjacent dirt roads. At the junction of the Wallowa Mountain Loop and Oregon Highway 350, head west on the Grande Ronde Valley to Wallowa Valley byway segment to the town of Joseph. Glacier-carved mountains in Eagle Cap Wilderness loom across the valley, enticing adventurers into their solitude. On the way to Joseph, the road passes Wallowa Lake. There’s a public county park and boat launch at the north end next to Oregon Highway 350. The Wallowa Lake Tramway and Wallowa Lake State Park are located at the south end of the lake a few miles down the Wallowa Lake Highway. For an overview of the valley and the granite peaks in the 364,000-acre Eagle Cap Wilderness, ride the gondola to the Mt. Howard summit at 8,150 feet in elevation. The Nez Perce Indians used the word Wallowa for a fish trapping structure created with

stakes set in a triangle supporting a network of sticks, which they placed at the outlet of the glacial Wallowa Lake. A stop in the town of Joseph is in order, where unique gifts shops and yummy restaurants are set with a backdrop of the Eagle Cap Wilderness. After restocking in Joseph, complete the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway by driving about two hours to La Grande on the Grande Ronde Valley to Wallowa Valley byway segment (Oregon Highway 82) then zip on the Interstate 84 east towards Baker City. But wait! Other options are to simply retrace the byway routes on the east side of the Eagle Cap Wilderness or try another byway side trip east of Joseph. Head east on Oregon Highway 350 to the Imnaha Country byway side trip through rangeland and basalt canyons. The destination is the tiny town of Imnaha famous for serving as the gateway to Hat Point Overlook, where visitors peer into Hells Canyon on the Snake River and view the Seven Devils Mountains. Get there by driving the steep 23-mile dirt road. Allow a day for this round-trip side tour. If time is of essence, bypass the turn off for the overlook and continue south on the 26-mile Imnaha Road to the paved Wallowa Mountain Loop. The Imnaha Road is a generally smooth dirt road offering fishing spots, a scenic river canyon, and a salmon hatchery. Allow for a minimum of three days to explore the various byway segments and side trips. Directions to the Wallowa Mountain Loop byway segment: From southwest Idaho, take Interstate 84 west to Exit 302 in Baker City, Oregon. Drive east on the Pine Valley to Baker Valley Byway Segment (Oregon Highway 86) the official start of the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway. Beyond the town of Halfway, turn north onto the Wallowa Mountain Loop byway segment (Forest Road 39). Depending on snowpack each season, the Wallowa Mountain Loop road generally opens to ve-

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hicles in June and closes in October. Further information and maps: Wallowa-Whitman National Forest district office, 1550 Dewey Ave., Baker City, Oregon; 541523-6391; www.fs.usda.gov/wallowa-whitman. Hells Canyon National Recreation Area, Eagle Cap Wilderness, and Wallowa Valley Visitor Center (combined office); 201 East Second Street in the old elementary school; Joseph, Oregon; 541-426-5546; Purchase trailhead passes at the forest offices or trailheads. $5 per day pass required for the Eagle Cap Wilderness trailheads. Wallowa Lake Tramway, 541-432-5331, www. wallowalaketramway.com. Natalie Bartley is a Boise-based author of the mobile app travel guide Boise’s Best Outdoor Adventures available at http://sutromedia.com/ boise and the trail guidebooks Best Easy Day Hikes Boise and Best Rail Trails Pacific Northwest available at http://www.amazon.com and at your local outdoor retailer or bookstore. ISI

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Ponderay Postmistress is NRA Iron Woman By Cate Huisman One morning last winter, an elderly woman walked into the Ponderay post office and asked the smiling, silver-haired woman behind the counter, “Are you the gun lady?” When Ponderay postmistress Gale Boyle confirmed that she was, the lady replied, “They told me about you at Big R. I just had to meet you.” Yes indeed. Gale Boyle, who took up postmistressing only after completing a career as a stay-at-home mom, is indeed “the gun lady,” having achieved the titles of High Woman and Iron Woman at NRA black powder target rifle shooting competitions. Local knowledge of her accomplishments spiked last winter after an exhibit about her

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appeared in the entrance lobby of the East Bonner County Library. Although Boyle has been shooting for years as a hunter for deer and elk, she is relatively new to the rifle with which she won her titles. Her husband, Joe, had been competing with one for years. “He kept trying to get me to shoot and I just kept telling him no. Finally in about 2003 or 2004, he talked me into trying it, and I’ve been shooting it ever since,” Gale recalls. For the annual black powder target rifle competitions held at the NRA Whittington Center in Raton, New Mexico, contestants use rifles like those that buffalo hunters used on the plains back when there were still buffalo to hunt. The guns they shoot may be antiques or reproductions, but their actions must be exactly like those of historic rifles. The advantage to these rifles is that they can shoot over long distances – 1,000 yards, versus a range of a hundred or so yards for a modern deer rifle. Boyle uses an antique Sharps Borchardt that weighs almost 15 pounds, the maximum allowed for this competition. The weight helps keep the barrel from bouncing around; there is less recoil. It would be heavy to shoot standing up, but in competition, it is shot lying down with the barrel resting in a pair of cross-sticks. The championships are held over a period of six days each August. Two of the days are modeled on a competition first held in 1873 on Long Island, New York, on what was then the young NRA’s new shooting range on its recently purchased Creed Farm. The U.S. team beat an Irish team on the last shot of the match, and “the event at the brand new Creedmoor range drew a significant amount of attention to the shooting sports,” says the NRA’s blog. For these two days, called the Creedmoor Championships, shooters compete from a prone position, shooting targets at 800, 900, and 1000 yards. They may take as many sighting shots as they wish to gauge the wind, and when they are ready, they shoot 10 shots for score. The target “is the size of the end of a pencil,” says Boyle. No modern scopes are allowed; shooters may use only an iron sight or peep sight. (Some shooters compete in a separate division using an antique-style scope, but Boyle does not.) At that distance, shooters cannot tell whether they have hit the target, so each

[Photo Courtesy of NRA]

works with a partner or spotter who views the target through a modern scope and lets the shooter know how close each shot comes to the target. Spotters have another important function. They judge the speed of the wind, and shooters adjust their sights accordingly. Over 1000 yards, the wind makes a significant difference on where the bullet ends up. Boyle’s husband, Joe, spots for her, and she’s acutely aware of how important this is to her championships. “I’m not that good of a spotter,” says Gale. “I always say he’s a much better spotter than I am because I hold the national record.” Boyle received her title of High Woman – and a fancy silver luggage tag to go with it, for being the highest female scorer in this portion of the competition. During the other four days of the nationals, shooters compete at shorter distances and in other positions, including sitting and standing. For these shoots, Boyle uses a smaller rifle that weighs only 11 pounds. Not all competitors compete at all the distances, but Boyle does, getting off 60 to 70 shots daily including the sighting shots. Awards are given each day of the competition for best scores in several categories. Boyle’s title of Iron Woman came from having the highest aggregate score for all six days of shooting; that came with a silver belt buckle. What makes her successful? “Practice for the most part,” she says drily.

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“The more trigger time you get, the better.� She and Joe have a shooting range on their property off Wrenco Loop Road. There they have targets set up to 550 yards, but that is the farthest they can practice on their own property. To shoot the Creedmoor distances, they go to a range over in Missoula several times every spring before heading down to New Mexico in late summer. A small business has grown out of their hobby: Stay-Put Shooting Mats. When lying prone to shoot the Creedmoor distances, they used to lie on a lightweight thin foam pad. Boyle explains, “There’s a lot of wind down there, so every time we got off of it, the wind would pick it up and blow it away.� Joe found this so frustrating that one year he threw his pad in the garbage, and “we came home and sat down and designed a shooting mat. It has good padding; it is water resistant; it has wings that fold

out for your elbows; it has an accessory pouch up front so you can put things in there that you might need on the shooting line. And the corners are weighted, so it doesn’t blow away.� They sell a lot of them each year at Whittington and through two different retailers. “It’s fun to go out and shoot – and it’s an extreme challenge,� says Boyle of the six straight days of the national championships. But she likes the annual trek to Whittington as much for the camaraderie as the competition. “That’s why we go, to see the people; sometimes it’s the only time of the year that you get to see them,� she says. �We’ve met people from all over the country and all over the world.� So it is no surprise that she hopes to continue doing it for a long time. ISI

Sculptor, historian, biologist – Kevin Kirking Article & Photo By Jack McNeel People would likely describe Kevin Kirking as a sculptor, and rightly so for he’s one of the best in the region. Even as a youngster, he sculpted wildlife from clay and recalls an alligator and a wolf head among those pieces. But art, especially sculpting, is only a part of his interests and background. As a youngster, the outdoors really pulled him in. “I was totally immersed in it,� he says. His parent’s farm was just north of C o e u r Kevin working on the wax of an old cowboy d’Alene card shark which will eventually be cast in near the bronze. base of Canfield Mountain. Wildlife was abundant on the mountain and it was common to see elk, deer, and bear. “One time we saw a cougar,� he remembers. A second interest was Indian culture and that interest has reappeared in recent years. Kevin now lives in a home adjacent to that childhood farm that also serves as his studio and it is filled with completed bronzes and works in progress. Between those early years and the present, much of his life was devoted to wildlife, environment, cultural affairs, and technology. College was split among three colleges where his primary subjects dealt with biology and life sciences. After a brief career in medical technology, he switched to computer programming and technology, found that to his liking, and remained in those areas. That led Kevin to the Missoula, Montana area where he founded a company that produced interpretive programs for National Parks using CD technology. It allowed him to merge his computer/

technology interests with the earlier interests in outdoors and cultural history. “We won a couple of National Association of Interpretation awards for the product we introduced to the parks,� Kevin relates. “Yellowstone was the main one. We also did one for the Big Horn Battlefield. Those interpretive projects are still being utilized.� Kevin’s company also produced the official web site for the Lewis & Clark Bicentennial. “We started that project in 1993.� In 2011 it was turned over to the Fort Mandan Foundation. “That site is still probably considered the most documented historical site on Lewis & Clark’s Corps of Discovery journey,� Kevin adds. “With the Lewis & Clark piece we had a lot of information from the tribes because part of that website told the stories from the Native viewpoint. That took us into Nez Perce, Shoshone, and various other cultures. I have a real appreciation for their culture because it’s so closely tied with nature and the outdoors.� Kevin has always enjoyed back packing and hiking. He joined the scouts at an early age and remained in scouting through Explorers. Working on the National

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Park projects provided further opportunities to get off the beaten track. “In Yellowstone I had a couple of opportunities to get into the back country including Seven-Mile Hole. It was subsequently closed due to bear problems,” he explains. “We’ve gone to Lewis Lake and a lot of different hikes in the Park.” Kevin’s wife also enjoys these activities and has accompanied him on many hikes. The Bob Marshall, the Missions, Jewel Basin on the backside of Flathead Lake, plus day trips in Glacier are all other Montana locations he’s hiked and back packed in. On the Idaho side he mentions the Selkirks near Bonners Ferry: Long Canyon, Parker Lake, and others. “That’s a fabulous, beautiful part of the state,” he says. “I still enjoy some of that hiking,” he adds. “There’s just such an abundance of fantastic country around that is just incredible! It’s always been part of my background.” Art was also on his mind during those years. “I started getting my hands dirty in clay in about 1988,” Kevin says. “I was always interested in western art and particularly sculpture. I started taking classes and visiting artists in

that kind of work and got instruction from them.” It was only ten years ago that he began selling his work. A bronze foundry moved from Joseph, Oregon and relocated to Hayden Lake. “It was so close it was easy to get there with my pieces and get them cast and I started selling them.” He produced a web site, started attending art shows. “It’s gone to where I am now,” he adds. Unfortunately, that foundry is now out of business so he travels to a foundry in Kalispell, Montana to get his work done. After selling his interpretation business, he returned from Montana back to Dalton Gardens, north of Coeur d’Alene. He opened a small business just across the line in Liberty Lake, Washington. “We purchased used equipment from large computer data centers, refurbished it and then sold it back into the industry again.” He sold that business a couple of years ago. This provided the opportunity to devote most of his time to art. “I still do wildlife, and in fact I’m working on a piece now,” he explains. “Recently I’ve done a lot of Native American pieces. I have a real interest in Native ledger art (Plains Indian interpretive drawing or painting on hide, paper, or cloth). I’ve done some things on ledger art and still have a piece I want to do.” Kevin’s studio presently has several pieces in the wax phase that will go to the foundry when he has finished them. One shows an old cowboy card shark holding a poker hand and wearing a weather beaten cowboy hat. “It’s more western than wildlife,” he says, but Kevin really enjoys human portraiture. “There’s a lot of character in people’s faces.” In mid-April Kevin delivered a fairly large (15” x 21” x 15”) Native American history piece to the foundry, which symbolically shows Indian horses arising from the bones and dirt from where they had been killed by the U.S. Army along the Spokane River in 1858. It represents the rise of the tribal culture from that low point in their history to their improved situation today. Kevin has been working with members of the Coeur d’Alene Tribe to create this symbolic piece and it will go to the Tribe for interpreting that event in history to younger members of the tribe and to show that death and destruction are not the final word. It’s planned to be used as a moving interpretive program for schools and other interested locations. For Kevin, life has come full circle from those early days of enjoying the outdoors, wildlife, Native American subjects, and sculpting to the same subjects where he can devote as much time as he wants. ISI

Take Charge And Choose This Time Of Your Life After 50 When you think of your Journey after 50 what do you see – relief from over-scheduled stress, a chance to play endless games of golf, or do you sometimes draw a blank? Whatever your notion, this period of life is an entirely new chapter. How will you write it? Without your old familiar place in the community, who will you be? Are you anxious to explore new possibilities but don’t know where to start? Eureka Institute presents a new workshop This Time of Your Life by Phil Ronniger. Phil is a counselor and mentor specializing in self-exploration, personal development, and career development. Leading participants through a series of morning workshops to answer the question: What’s calling you at this time of your life? Create a personal map of your life journey to determine your future path using inspiration from your past! Dig into the treasurers of your unique character during the mornings and spend afternoons exploring the possibilities of beautiful downtown Sandpoint and the surrounding areas. Visit www.eureka-insti-

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tute.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=140&Itemid=190. The Eureka Institute of Sandpoint is a non-profit organization that seeks to awaken and develop consciousness, creativity, and leadership by providing innovative educational, spiritual, and recreational experiences for all ages. We provide unique spaces and help facilitate presentations,

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workshops, outdoor learning adventures, and more to an ever-widening community. For more information, visit www.eureka-insƟtute.org/ or call us at 208263-2217. ISI

Doug Toland and the Green Monster - Continued from page 1 Crystals derive their value from their relative rarity as well as their quality and composition. Epidotes are found in only a few places in the world – Austria, Pakistan, and the Green Monster. Doug has sold many crystals he has found over the years, but the specimens he has kept for himself – the ones he removes from their wrappings in the cardboard box – show the qualities that make them most valuable – sharp and undamaged points and angles, and smaller accessory minerals grouped around them. “Twin” quartz crystals are sometime spectacularly paired with the epidotes – these are pairs of crystals that grew from a common seed point, extending symmetrically, almost at right angles. Several specimens of these, including one found by his wife, Mary, are among Doug’s favorites. Mary is less fond of summers on the Green Monster than Doug is, and she has visited her husband’s mining site only a half dozen times, so her find is particularly significant to both of them. Doug first encountered the riches of this remote island during a summer of fieldwork in college. In 1967, as a college junior, he was hired to help a mineralogy professor on Green Monster Mountain and Copper Mountain, a neighboring peak. That summer taught him a lot about geology, field collecting, and how to tough it out in day-after-dayafter-day rain. Back at the University of Delaware, he used his newfound toughness to slug it out with German and math, which he finally passed. He got a degree in geography in 1969 and headed back to Alaska, taking along his first wife, Fran. They stayed on the island in the rain for three weeks, looking for crystals in cavities in the numerous old mines that dot the island. When the short summer season was over, they moved back to find work on the mainland, and they were able to sell enough of their crystals to finance a trip back home to Delaware for Christmas. But Alaska and the Green Monster called Doug back. There followed several adventurous years of short-term jobs and travel, with a master’s degree in earth science and environmental studies arriving in their midst, as well as a son, Drew, and later a daughter, Bonnie. Short hard summers were spent

on Prince of Wales Island, flying in on a floatplane, landing on a small lake, and carrying the summer’s gear, food, and supplies a mile and a half and 800 vertical feet up to a camp. Doug started a business, Crystal Pocket of Juneau, to market his finds, but it was not enough to feed a family. Life got a little more secure when he got a job as an environmental specialist with the state of Alaska, and finally he could afford a house in Juneau. But with a full-time job on the mainland, there was little time to look for crystals. At 71 and now retired from his state job, Doug has more time to devote to his business, now called Crystal Pocket of Alaska. The process of digging for crystals has changed little in the intervening years, and the weather has not improved at all. Years ago, he and Hanna built a little shelter up on a ridge, and they brought in a gas-powered chipper and a generator for a power drill. These they haul in a wheelbarrow from their shelter to their worksite up a steep slope, which is sometimes still blanketed with snow when they arrive in late June. Once the power tools have opened up pockets, Doug still digs for crystals as he did in his 20s, crawling into holes and chipping away with muscle and a hammer to reveal his quarry. Nights are spent in the tiny, uninsulated hut, cooking on a Coleman stove and huddling by a small woodstove, which is always cold by morning. It is no surprise, then, that Doug is lean and sinewy. When he is not on Prince of Wales Island, Doug and Mary live near the end of a gravel road in a wood-heated home with a “rock room,” where crystals cover most surfaces and banks of shallow drawers contain a massive collection of specimens from around the world. It turns out that box he brought to the Kokanee Coffee House was only the tip of the iceberg. The home also houses many memorabilia from a stint in Moscow, Russia, a few years ago, where Doug accompanied Mary as “trailing spouse” when she taught in a school for Anglo-American diplomats’ children. That episode gave him a new perspective on the place of Americans in the world, and he has written a book about this and other things life has taught him, This

Life’s Tempestuous Sea, to be published by Author House this summer. But even from Russia, he came home summers to work his claim, and the Green Monster continues to beckon. He will be back this summer, finding more crystals that will continue to emerge from boxes and wrappings to amaze those who gaze upon them. Doug Toland and his partner Tom Hanna are sorry to inform readers who may aspire to look for crystals on Green Monster Mountain that the mountain is closed to field collecting. ISI

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Couple Can Take An Armchair Tour Of The World From Their Home Article and photos by Dianna Troyer Whenever octogenarians Charles and Rene Clark garden, they’re reminded of living in many countries where Charles worked as a civil engineer. They use a tool that Charles calls a push knife to maintain their two-acre garden and yard in Paul next to Minico High School, where vegetables, flowers, 20 fruit trees, grapes, and walnut and hazelnut trees flourish. The push knife looks like a spatula with a curved foot-long handle. “I designed a pattern after seeing a farmer use one in Indonesia,� says Charles. “A man was farming on a steep hillside, using only this tool to cultivate and weed. You just push it from the palm of your hand.� Several years ago, he began making some for friends. He shapes and sharpens old saw blades and puts a handle on them. The push knife isn’t the only item reminding the Clarks of their overseas adventures. Samoan war clubs, wooden boat models, and metal kitchenware decorate their living room and office. They share stories about their mementos from Italy, Pakistan, Lesotho, Indonesia, and Fiji.

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“It seems odd to not jump on a plane and travel somewhere in the world,� says Renee, 82, a retired teacher. “We did it most of our lives. Every place we lived was interesting. We felt like we never had to take a vacation because we were on one.� Charles, 87, says, “For now, I’m happy s t a y i n g i n t h e U. S . We’ve seen a lot. Plus, we were traveling at a time when it was safer, and you didn’t have to worry about terrorism. We also were in places that hadn’t yet been developed into tourist destinations, so we were able to experience the country and cultures in a genuine way. My work was always interesting and challenging, which I liked.� Renee says they learned about countries’ cultures not only from locals but also from others who were hired on public works projects. “Charles worked with people from Japan, Australia, Germany, Holland, and the Philippines, so everyone working on a project shared and celebrated their countries’ holidays.� Charles helped manage projects that ranged from building roads to installing military communication systems. “The key to living in another country is to be adaptable,� says Charles, who was often assigned a driver and guard to help navigate rural roads and local customs. “If you’re not flexible, it’s likely you’ll become frustrated.� Renee says they accepted whatever accommodations they had. “People didn’t always have what we would consider to be modern comforts of home like a mattress,� Renee says. “Sometimes in remote

areas, Charles slept on a bamboo mat or a mattress that had been stuffed with the fluff from a tree. We learned to sleep on anything. Toilets were often a hole in a floor. For showers, sometimes you had to dip water from a well and pour it over yourself.� While in Pakistan, Renee learned a new hobby, photography. Several of her overseas photos won awards and appear on calendars. Two of her favorites hang on their wall. The Clarks, who had grown up in the Mini-Cassia area, never planned to live internationally when they first met. After graduating from college, they met through friends and married in 1952. Charles worked in Alaska, doing port surveys for the Army Corps of Engineers. “I always happened to be in the right place at the right time when an engineer was needed,� he says. “When one job ended, another opened up, and we were off to another country.� From 1961 to 1966, they lived in Rome, a base from which Charles helped supervise the installation of a military communications system in Italy, Turkey, Greece, and Spain. “President Kennedy ordered the installation of a system to control the deployment of nuclear bombs.� Renee says their four children loved living in Italy. “Sometimes I took the kids, and for weeks we traveled throughout Europe in a van.� In 1967, they moved back to Paul, Idaho to raise their children. They bought property with a small house shaded by stately oak trees. Charles worked for a paving and excavation company, while Renee taught in local schools, mainly sixthgrade science. After their kids left home, Charles began searching the overseas job market. From 1981 to 1984, they lived in Lesotho, where Charles built a road across the southern part of the African country, making it easier to traverse a mountain range. During his next job in Pakistan, he helped to expand a 1,200-kilometer road from the southern part of the country to the north near the Afghanistan border. “They wanted the road redesigned, so it could carry handle heavy traffic, especially military equipment,� says Charles. As the project was winding down, he learned of his next assignment. “I was needed in Indonesia to rehabilitate old rural roads that had been built by the Dutch,� he says. They lived five years in mountainous Sulawesi Island, enjoying a spacious house near the ocean. They learned to scuba dive and explored floating mangrove swamps. In 1998, Charles and Renee returned home to Idaho but not for long. They went on a twoyear church mission and were assigned to the Polynesian Islands and worked in Fiji, Tonga, and Samoa. Charles maintained the church computers, and Renee taught computer classes. “No matter where you live, there’s always something interesting to do and learn,� says Renee. ISI

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Food pantry is Chris Bean’s labor of love By Dianna Troyer Chris Bean doesn’t earn a dime for directing the Mountain View Christian Center Food Pantry in Burley, but she doesn’t mind. Instead, she has priceless experiences serving residents of Minidoka and Cassia counties. “I’m surprised at how much the need has grown since the recession started,” says Chris as she sits at her desk, filling out reports documenting the number of clients served in the center’s two food programs. “In 2009, when we started, we filled about 20 boxes a month. Now we do about 450 to 500 a month. Some people used to be uncomfortable asking for help, but those attitudes are changing.” When Chris first volunteered, she could not foresee how the program would evolve and grow or how much she would become involved. “Several years ago, when I started going to church here, I wasn’t working and had time to volunteer, so I helped with the food program,” she says. As the program and the need grew with the recession, it required more time than the person running it could give, so Chris volunteered. “Then in October 2011, we started being the distribution point for the Idaho Food Bank’s USDA commodities. Now it takes about 35 to 40 hours a week to keep up with the need.” The program is an expression of love for the center’s members. “Our motto here is simple. ‘Love God. Serve people,’” says Chris. “That’s what keeps me motivated. We have about 100 volunteers a month who make our food programs possible and fill boxes with donated items.” Chris sees a broad range of clients with different experiences. “We have some retirees, people on Social Security disability, and people who work but still have incomes that qualify them. Some people make just slightly too much to qualify for food stamps and still need help.” Dan Hendricks, family life pastor, says friends of his recently qualified due to a medical emergency. “The husband was injured at work and is on disability,” says Dan as he stacks cans of food in a pantry next to the sanctuary. “They have enough to pay their bills but not enough left over to buy food.” Dan says the food programs are an expression of spiritual faith. “When Jesus fed the 5,000, he ministered to their physical as well as their spiritual needs.” The center’s mission to love God and serve people extends beyond their church members to Mini-Cassia residents who qualify for monthly food boxes. The MVCC Food Pantry provides food three times a week from 9 to 11:30 a.m. on Tuesdays; 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Wednesdays and 9 to 11:30 a.m. on Fridays. Food provided through the Idaho Food Bank is distributed the third Tuesday of the month for those whose incomes qualify. Doors open at 9:30 a.m. At 10 a.m. clients, who are able, take a nutrition class offered by the University of Idaho Extension Service with the distribution following the class. Chris requests that people pre-register, so she knows how many boxes to order. Volunteers meet before the distribution days to fill boxes with a variety of goods including canned fruits and vegetables, pastas and potatoes, peanut butter, jelly, and other food. Chris says she’s grateful to donors. “God has really blessed the ministry. We receive items from individuals, community service groups, clubs, and local stores including Smith’s, Albertsons, and Dollar Tree.” Through the Idaho Food Bank’s Grocery Alliance Program, grocers donate food that has reached but not exceeded its sell-by date. The food, such as dairy products, meat and produce, is safe for human consumption and meets safety standards. “On some days, we can include milk, cheese, and meat,” says Chris.

People who wish to donate items may stop by the center at 317 Mountain View Lane. Besides food, Chris says people need a few items that they can’t buy with food stamps. “They always appreciate household cleaning supplies and personal toiletries such as shampoo, toothpaste, toilet paper, and diapers.” The food programs have “really opened my eyes,” says Julia Jacobs, the center’s office manager. “I had no idea there was so much need in our community. It feels good to be able to help.” More information about the programs is available at www.mvccchurch.org/mvcc-food-pantry. html or by calling 208-878-5451. ISI Chris Bean volunteers to oversee food distribution to Minidoka and Cassia County residents. [Photo by Dianna Troyer]

Sun Valley On Ice debuts July 4 and runs Saturday nights through Labor Day featuring an all-star line-up showcasing the world’s greatest. For show tickets or buffet and show tickets go to sunvalley.ticketfly.com or call 208.622.2135.

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Laughing lunch lady Millie Teeter retires Article & Photo By Dianna Troyer Along with chicken nuggets and burgers, head cook Millie Teeter dishes up hugs and smiles to Raft River students. “There are always kids who need their ‘Millie fix’ for the day and talk to her first thing in the morning when she serves breakfast,” says Eric Boden, principal at Raft River School in Malta. “Kids are comfortable with her and many confide in her. Everyone looks forward to seeing her because she’s such a fun person. At holidays, she’s festive and dresses up,” says Eric, who met Millie when he was in second grade. “Thirty years later, she still has her sense of humor. Kids respect her, and when she needs to, she can get their attention with a few comments. The cafeteria will be different next year without her. She’s been wonderful.” Millie retired at the end of the school year after starting as the cafeteria cashier in 1982 and becoming head cook in 2006. “My back is telling me it’s time,” says the 64-year-old. “I need a rest from lifting 40-pound boxes of frozen food. I won’t miss that workout, but I’ll miss the ladies I work with and talking to the kids.” This past year, it has been challenging to implement guidelines for serving lunch that were prompted by the passage of the Healthy, HungerFree Kids Act in 2010, an important initiative of First Lady Michelle Obama to reduce childhood obesity. The law limits calories and requires school districts to serve children certain amounts of fruits, vegetables, and grains. Millie has adjusted to the changes but has had a difficult time hearing kids say they’re still hungry after lunch. “We can’t give seconds anymore because it throws off their calorie count, and our portion sizes are strictly monitored.” The number of kids eating school lunch has declined even though student enrollment is about the same. “Last year before the changes, we usually served about 320 kids. This year, we’re serving about 270. More kids are bringing their own food, and the high school kids can go downtown to Bake Central or the C Store for lunch.” Millie says she strives to plan how much food to prepare to avoid throwing a lot away.

“It’s hard for me to see food going into the garbage. Our most popular meals are the deli sandwiches, chicken nuggets, and hamburgers.” As with the dietary habits of adults, these are the highest in fat and salt compared to the more nutritious fruits and vegetables menu. Millie says it has been rewarding to see kids try new fruits and like some of them. “We’ve had tropical fruits they might not otherwise get at home including rambutan, dragon fruit, passion fruit, watermelon radishes, pomegranate, coconut, kiwi, papaya, and mango.” One popular change in the food service program is serving breakfast, which started in 1995. “The first year we had a few students, and now we have about 200 every morning,” she says of kids who devour breakfast burritos, oatmeal, biscuits and gravy, cereal, waffles, muffins and homemade cinnamon rolls. When Millie arrives for work at 7 a.m., instead of dwelling on the administrative challenges and students’ grumbling stomachs, she focuses on the satisfying aspects of her job. “We have good kids here. I started when my kids were young because I wanted a job outside the home and farm. Before I knew it, our kids were grown, and I was serving our grandkids and still am. Deon is a freshman, and Dallas is a junior. But I don’t think I’ll have enough time to stick around for the great grandkids.” Besides looking forward to seeing students, Millie is grateful to have some laughs with the employees she supervises, Lisa Black, Susan Holtman, and Tressa Ward. “We have a good time here in the kitchen,” says Millie. Lisa says, “We like her sense of humor.” Susan, 65, who is planning to retire in spring, says Millie makes work enjoyable. “She knows a lot about the program guidelines and is good with the kids, too.” Tressa says, “Millie is a great friend besides being our boss.” Millie and her staff have traveled to national conventions for cafeteria employees in New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington D.C.,

It is not necessary to change. Survival is not mandatory. - W. Edwards Deming

Nashville, and Denver. “The shows are huge with hundreds of booths and thousands of food samples.” On trips, she takes her sense of humor with her, which New Yorkers didn’t always understand. “Once, we were headed the wrong way on the subway, so a woman was telling us the right trains to catch. I told her if she was wrong, I’d have to spend the night at her house. She just looked at me.” At a convention in Washington D.C., a cab driver told her there wasn’t enough room in his cab, so Millie stretched across the laps of the other staff members in the back seat. When she retires, Millie plans to spruce up her yard and to travel whenever her husband, Terry, gets time off his job trucking cattle to Utah. “I love to travel and spend time with the grandkids,” says Millie, whose sons live nearby, Dale in Elba and Brian in Burley. Even though she’s retiring, Millie says she will need to see the kids and cafeteria as much as some kids need their “fix” of her. “I’m on the sub list, so I’ll be back. I know for some kids, I’ll always be ‘Grandma,’ and that’s wonderful.” ISI

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Yes, summer is here – the leaves are green, the weather is warm, the birds and bees are being birds and bees, and we are steeped in the new life of the season. What better time than summer to find that new and special someone to bring into your life. Take time today to write a personal ad or reply to one of the personal ads on these pages. 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, to place a personal ad to appear in the August/September 2013 issue, the deadline is July 10, 2013. Single white female, 66, seeking tall single white male, 65-69, for companionship/long term relationship. Must be courteous and very respectful, considerate and accept me as I am. Must be non-smoking, no drinking, or any drug use. Non-judgmental. I enjoy cooking, sewing, doing various crafts, enjoys cats, gardening, country western, and comedy movies. I do not like rudeness or disrespectfulness. I am a little bit hard of hearing in one ear, but wear a hearing aid that helps, but being hearing impaired shouldn’t prevent me from being in a relationship. Hope to hear from someone seeking the same as I am. It’s no fun being alone. Anyone responding, ask me allot of questions and I’ll answer. Reply ISI, Dept. 9201, c/o Idaho Senior Independent, Box 3341, Great Falls, MT 59403. I am a white single widow 68 years old. I like RV traveling and going for walks. I love all dogs (I have a toy poodle). I like to laugh, but do not like jokes that are harmful. I like country music. I know how to communicate. I like dancing. I am retired. I am looking for friendship and companionship. At this time, I am not looking for sex. I live in Weiser and am looking for someone to take away the loneliness. Reply ISI, Dept. 9202, c/o Idaho Senior

Independent, Box 3341, Great Falls, MT 59403. SWF, 61, I have an 11 year old Yorkshire terrier. I socially smoke and drink. I love to go out to a fancy restaurant, or to get a hot dog at the ball game. Enjoy playing cards, movies, museums, and sport games. Looking for SWM at least 5’8”, good health, sincere, and honest. Age 55-65. Enclose picture please. Reply ISI, Dept. 9203, c/o Idaho Senior Independent, Box 3341, Great Falls, MT 59403. SWF looking for young 70ish clean, 6’ teddy bear type, kind, honest, non-argumentative, NS, ND, no drugs, sense of humor, no games – just enjoyable companionship. I am an old fashioned, blue jean country girl. I am not religious. I like to travel, fish, read, flowers, music, no TV. North Idaho... would love to hear from you. Reply ISI, Dept. 9204, c/o Idaho Senior Independent, Box 3341, Great Falls, MT 59403 SWF Big beautiful woman with gentle loving heart, active and healthy, educated and secure. Seeks a gentleman companion 70+ who is not ready for the rocking chair. My interests vary, mostly outdoors. Day trips, picnics, travel, yard sales, exploring, quiet evening, or Dutch oven cooking. NS/ND/ Nmeds. If you are interested, please respond, as summer is a wastin’. Reply ISI, Dept. 9205, c/o Idaho Senior Independent, Box 3341, Great Falls, MT 59403. SWM Seeking non-denominational Christian lady, NS-ND in her 60s for a friend and maybe more. I am 5’ 10”, stocky build, and fairly good health, also debt free. I have a well-kept country cottage with a variety of pine, cedar, aspen, and lilac trees (with squirrels) also a small trout creek running through my 2 acres. I enjoy drives in the country and mountains, yard sales, ATV riding, fishing, outdoor cooking, yard work, my two puppies, and life. I live a simple healthy life and am looking for someone to enjoy it with. I am retired from the automotive business and recently built a nice well-equipped shop to keep me busy on winter days. I live in northeast Idaho Bear Lake country. Please respond with picture if possible. Reply ISI, Dept. 9206, c/o Idaho Senior Independent, Box 3341, Great Falls, MT 59403 SWF. I enjoy a variety of activities from hiking, biking, x-c skiing to symphony and theatre to gardening. Activities and quiet time at home are nice, too. I like to learn and explore. I love nature and animals, especially dogs and horses. I am looking for an active gentleman who is kind, honest, positive, and genuine who enjoys many of the same activities and values. He’s a team player in the relationship and values the person he is with. Laughing and fun add a lot to the quality to life. I am 69, healthy, active, Christian, N/S, N/D, occasional drink. Picture would be nice. Reply ISI, Dept. 9207, c/o Idaho Senior Independent, Box 3341, Great Falls, MT 59403. ISI

Losing Friends By Marion Somers, PhD My 86-year-old mother-in-law has lost a number of friends over the past few years to their either moving in with relatives or passing on. Now she is losing one of her oldest and dearest friends who also is be her next-door neighbor. They have depended on each other for various things like dinner or a cup of tea or picking up each other’s mail while one was out of town. She sounds so down I’m not sure what to say to her. She is strong and will survive, but it is very sad. Do you have any suggestions? Pat in Georgia, 59. Losing friends or relatives is a trying time for all of us, and especially for those who are older. There is always a natural period of grieving and remembering. We cannot replace those who are lost to us. But I try to show my clients to be grateful for the blessings and joys these people have given them, and to be buoyed by the friendship that has enhanced their life. No matter what age we may be, we are in control of making the most of our lives. Your mother-in-law needs to make the maximum effort so she can go forward in her life. Sometimes people reach out to us, but usually we have to attempt to make new friends or acquaintances in order to build new relationships. It can be very empowering and exciting to renew ties with family members, or to reach out to our religious organizations or clubs or social venues. This all takes time and effort, but it’s usually well worth it. Having new people in our lives can be very rewarding. We all seek companionship and the comfort of knowing someone cares. Sometimes the simple gesture of volunteering our time and talents, the act of giving, comes with its own rewards. When we stop thinking so much about ourselves, our grief and loss can be healed. 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. Visit www.DrMarion. com for more information. ISI

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Consider A Conversion Van To Assist With Your Mobility Challenges Cars are for everybody and even those physically challenged enjoy the comfort of a car. And that is exactly the reason accessible conversion vans exist. With the comfort of a car and ultimate convenience and practicality, a conversion van is just the answer. Not only do they have sufficient space, they too can run at nearly the same efficiency when loaded as if they are empty. Compared to trucks, vans have the proper coverings and frames, which provide protection and comfort to their passengers. These features are something that few trucks have. Although a truck can be converted for use by the disabled, it would surely cost a lot. In the case of other cars, like minivans, some features would also put them in “not so okay” or “just okay” categories. Of course, although they can be used too, it would still be better to provide the best available comfort to our disabled family members, friends, or clients. Again, the main considerations are comfort and convenience. Unfortunately, though some vans may look good, they lack certain features to accommodate wheelchairs or scooters. A vehicle

that lacks space is uncomfortable not only to the disabled person, but to those riding with them. Moreover, this equipment contributes weight, and so a car with no capacity to load heavy weight is not practical. Conversion vans are special because they are intentionally customized to benefit handicapped people depending on the person’s disability and the necessary equipment to assist them. But remember, there are some basic common features that are important. Here are the four essential features of accessible vans: • Mobility is a primary consideration... making the ease of moving in and out of the vehicle an enhancement to their freedom of movement. • Elevation. Wheelchair vans must have proper elevation to allow entrance of passengers. A car that can’t be entered is useless. • Space. Some people may carry more than one wheelchair and different kinds of equipment so it is important that the right space will provide comfort.

• Affordability. Of course, a conversion van is good only if you can afford it. Be sure to shop thoroughly among auto dealers (both new and used), financing options, and conversion companies. If you do, you will end up with the best value and hopefully the most comfortable and convenient solution to the mobility challenges you face. Source: Free Articles from ArticlesFactory. com. ISI

Can I buy my medicine now? Provided by Area Agency on Aging Serving Southwest Idaho and National Council on Aging • www.ncoa.org/ Could you live on $813 a month? In January, that’s all Sue had. She needed $136 just for two prescriptions. The rest had to cover rent, food, heat, and more. Then Sue met a benefits counselor supported by the National Council on Aging (NCOA). In just one month, she found benefits saving her $4,380 a year. Sue simply asked, “Can I buy my heart medicine now?” It could be you or one of your loved ones asking this same question. One in three seniors is economically vulnerable. Last year alone, NCOA helped more than 357,500 older individuals access benefits, develop personal economic action plans, get training and jobs, and explore how to use their home equity wisely. These days, seniors need to become more involved in gaining information that helps them maintain a good quality of life. You can get answers and access tools on how to enhance economic security on the NCOA web site. Over a two-year demonstration project, NCOA learned that helping

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struggling seniors access benefits, learn budgeting and money management, find employment, and tap home equity solutions can put them on a path to economic security. For example, did you know that many seniors mistakenly believe that if they qualify for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), they will only get $16 a month? There may be deductions, such as medical expenses, that can help establish eligibility and increase the value of SNAP benefits dramatically.

Do you know how to avoid getting trapped by a scam? Older adults are a prime target for financial scams. Learn about the most common tactics – and how to avoid them. Why not join those who have already experienced how to become Savvy Saving Seniors® and have peace of mind. Locate your Area Agency on Aging by calling 1-800-926-2588 or visiting www. idahoaging.com/contact.html. ISI

Risk Factors For Skin Cancer National Cancer Institute The main risk factor for skin cancer is exposure to sunlight (UV radiation), but there are also other risk factors. People with certain risk factors are more likely than others to develop skin cancer. Some risk factors vary for the different types of skin cancer. Studies have shown that the following are risk factors for the three most common types of skin cancer: • Sunlight: Sunlight is a source of UV radiation. It’s the most important risk factor for any type of skin cancer. The sun’s rays cause skin damage that can lead to cancer. • Severe, blistering sunburns: People who have had at least one severe, blistering sunburn are at increased risk of skin cancer. Although people who burn easily are more likely to have had sunburns as a child, sunburns during adulthood also increase the risk of skin cancer. • Lifetime sun exposure: The total amount of sun exposure over a lifetime is a risk factor for skin cancer. • Tanning: Although a tan slightly lowers the risk of sunburn, even people who tan well without sunburning have a higher risk of skin cancer because of more lifetime sun exposure. In the United States, skin cancer is more common where the sun is strong. For example, more people in Texas than Minnesota get skin cancer. Also, the sun is stronger at higher elevations, such as in the mountains. Doctors encourage people to limit their exposure to sunlight. People with skin cancer are at risk of developing another skin cancer. The best way to prevent skin cancer is to protect yourself from the sun: • Avoid outdoor activities during the middle of the day. The sun’s rays are the strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. When you must be outdoors, seek shade when you can. • Protect yourself from the sun’s rays reflected by sand, water, snow, ice, and pavement. The sun’s rays can go through light clothing, windshields, windows, and clouds. • Wear long sleeves and long pants. Tightly woven fabrics are best. • Wear a hat with a wide brim all around that shades your face, neck, and ears. Keep in mind that baseball caps and some sun visors protect only parts of your skin. • Wear sunglasses that absorb UV radiation to protect the skin around your eyes. • Use sunscreen lotions with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. (Some doctors will suggest using a lotion with an SPF of at least 30.) Apply the product’s recommended amount to uncovered skin 30 minutes before going outside, and apply again every two hours or after swimming or sweating. • Sunscreen lotions may help prevent some skin cancers. It’s important to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen lotion that filters both UVB and UVA radiation. But you still need to avoid the sun during the middle of the day and wear clothing to protect your skin. With a little bit of planning, you can go a long way toward preventing skin cancer. ISI

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New Clinic Service At Kellogg Hospital The Board of Trustees of Shoshone Medical Center recently approved its new Family Medicine and Walk-In Clinic to be housed within Shoshone Medical Center. Beginning July 1, the clinic will be open Monday – Friday and staffed by either a physician or nurse practitioner with nursing support. The development of a family medicine and “walk in” clinical setting in the hospital will provide back up to the Emergency Department as well

as supportive care for inpatients. Patients may come in without an appointment for immediate concerns or may call ahead for a specific appointment time. In keeping with the Board’s continuous goal of providing quality services locally, this new service will help to consolidate and coordinate healthcare in the hospital and throughout the Silver Valley. This clinic will work closely with the newly formed Patient Centered Care Collaboration Committee

With Early Detection and Proper Treatment, Millions of Americans Can Avoid Blindness Caused By Diabetic Retinopathy and Macular Degeneration The American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) urges adults to schedule an eye examination to check for early signs of diabetic retinopathy or age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the two leading causes of new cases of vision loss and blindness among adults. Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects more than 4 million Americans and results in the most new cases of blindness in typical working-age adults age 20-74. An estimated 15 million adults also have some form of macular degeneration, which can progress to an advanced stage in more than 100,000 people age 60 and older each year and lead to blindness if not detected and treated promptly. These diseases can severely damage the retina, the light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the eye that provides clear, sharp images. Symptoms include blurred or distorted vision, spots or shadows in the field of vision, difficulty reading or recognizing faces, and vision loss. Often, both

diseases go undetected for years until these noticeable changes occur. No one should take his or her vision for granted. During a routine examination, an ophthalmologist can see early signs of these and other retinal diseases, long before vision loss begins and, if diagnosed, refer the patient to a retina specialist who can begin a treatment regimen to prolong vision. Retina specialists are highly trained physicians who specialize in the treatment of diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and other eye conditions and diseases. These physicians treat patients by slowing the progression of AMD, diabetic retinopathy, and other retinal diseases and making living with them very manageable. Take the first step in preserving vision. Visit www.savingvision.org to learn about these and other retinal diseases and locate a retina specialist. ISI

that includes various health care services offered in the Silver Valley such as home health, mental health, and hospice. Ultimately, these increased services will become part of the new Patient Centered Medical Home model that brings all patient caregivers together to provide coordinated, quality care – at home. For more information, call us at 208-7841221 to learn how we can better serve you. ISI

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Move It or Lose It: Five Moves to Put You Back in the Game By Ginny Grimsley For Americans 65 and older, falling down can be the worst thing to happen to them, according to statistics from the National Council on Aging: • One in three seniors experiences a significant fall each year • Every 18 seconds, a senior is admitted into an emergency room after losing balance and hitting the ground • Every 35 minutes, an elderly person dies from a fall – the leading cause of death for seniors “The projected cost in health-care expenses for 2020 due to fall-related injuries in the United States is $55 billion,” says Karen Peterson, a therapist with multiple certifications, and author of Move With Balance: Healthy Aging Activities for Brain and Body, (www.MoveWithBalance.org). She’s also the founder and director of - Advertisement Giving Back, a nonprofit organization that grows and spreads programs that support senior health. Local low vision doctor helps those with vision impairment to keep reading and driving. “It’s important for seniors to keep moving and By Elena Lomabardi retired rancher from Utah, approached the Low learning, that’s what helps improve balance and Just because you have macular degeneration Vision Clinic last February. coordination, and even helps build new neural (or other vision-limiting conditions) doesn’t always “I could not read the street signs soon enough pathways,” says Peterson, who emphasizes the when driving, and I couldn’t read my morning cognitive importance to her workout programs. mean you must give up driving or reading. Ever look through a pair of field glasses or paper.” “But if you’re rather frail, or just very fearful of fallbinoculars? Things look bigger He was fit with bioptic teleing, you’re less likely to get up and move around.” and closer, and much easier scope glasses. “Amazing,” says to see. Dr. Jared L. Cooper Ross, “to be able to see things of Southern Idaho/Utah and far away again. Even the televiDr. Cheryl Dumont of Coeur sion is so much better now.” He d’Alene are using miniaturized was also provided with a Clear binoculars or telescopes to help Image Microscope glasses for people who have lost vision from reading the newspaper. macular degeneration or other “Telescopic glasses usually eye conditions. cost over $2000,” says Dr. Coo“Some of my patients conper, “especially if we fabricate sider me the last stop for people who have vision them with an automatic sunglass.” loss”, says Dr. Cooper, a low vision optometrist who Not all low vision devices are that expensive limits his practice to visually impaired patients in - reading glasses start at $500 and hand magnihis offices throughout Southern Idaho. fiers under $100. Every case is different because “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. my patients have been told that there was nothCall Dr. Cooper or Dr. Dumont for a free ing left that they could do to improve their vision, telephone interview at 800-451-2015 or visit Dr. fortunately this is usually not the case.” Cooper on the Internet at www.drjaredcooper.com. “My job is to figure out everything and anything Dr. Jared L. Cooper Idaho License #ODPpossible 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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These activities benefit everyone from 55 to 105. Peterson says a fun, social program of games and activities that includes exercises specifically designed for seniors helps them address multiple issues, including those that tend to keep seniors sedentary – which only lessens their strength and balance. “Seniors of all ages need to continually work on improving their balance, coordination, strength, vision, and cognitive skills. When they do, they’re less likely to fall – and more able to enjoy life.” Peterson suggests these moves, which address many different areas of the body: • The cross-crawl: After various light warm-ups, begin with the basic cross-crawl, which focuses on the fundamentals of balance. March in place, lifting the knees high. At the same time, reach across and touch the lifted knee with the opposite hand or elbow; alternate and keep going. This can be done sitting, standing, or lying down. Once any of these exercises is mastered, Peterson says, participants should continue to challenge themselves. For even greater balance work, and to exercise the vestibular system, close your eyes and count backwards from 100 by threes. • Forward toe-touch dancer: To improve motor skills, physical coordination and cognition, there are many dance exercises that are appropriate for seniors. If needed, use a chair for assistance. Place your feet shoulder-width apart. Now, extend your left foot and your right arm forward. Keep your left toes pointed down, touching the floor; or for more difficulty, maintain the toes a few inches off the floor. Repeat this move with your left arm and right foot. Hold each pose for several seconds, and increase holding time. • Sensory integration – the arrow chart: Look at an arrow chart and call out the direction indicated by each individual symbol. Then, thrust your arms in that direction; in other words, say and do what the arrow indicates. For an additional challenge, do the opposite of what the arrow indicates. • Side-step walk: Walk sidestepping – bring your right foot across the left and step down three to five inches away from the left foot, ankles crossed. The closer the feet, the harder it is to balance. Alternate crossing the foot in front and then behind the other foot as you move along; repeat several times, then do the same with opposite feet. As a bonus challenge, try a reading exercise from a vision card, designed for stimulating the brain/ visual system, while sidestepping.

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• The cat jump: This activity is practice in case of a fall; the muscle memory of the movement will be etched in your body. Bend your knees in a squat. Jump a little off the ground with both feet, and land softly, like a cat, without jarring your body. Repeat until you are confident in your ability. Karen Peterson is founder and director of Giving Back, a nonprofit organization dedicated to

improving the lives of elders through intergenerational mentoring. She has multiple certifications, including educational kinesiologist, natural vision improvement instructor, Touch for Health instructor, and as a massage therapist. For 25 years, Peterson has been teaching these modalities to children, businesspeople, athletes, teachers, and adults of all ages and occupations. ISI

Don’t Get Mugged By Your Diabetes Medication By Suzy Cohen Dear Pharmacist: I have your Diabetes Without Drugs book and it has helped me, but I’m still on two of the original five medications for this condition. What nutrients should I take with my medicine? – B.B., Micanopy, Florida Answer: For my new readers, the term “drug mugger” is something that my followers understand from 14 years of my writing, and it’s the title of one of my books. It refers to how medications (or foods) reduce levels of vitamins, minerals, and beneficial flora (probiotics) and cause side effects. But if you don’t know this, you will assume you have a new disease. Hundreds of scientific studies support this “drug mugger” effect. Metformin, which belongs to the biguanide class, depletes probiotics, vitamin B12, and folic acid. This deficiency may cause homocysteine to rise. You can measure homocysteine in the blood. We saw the B12 depletion first occur in 1980, although the article was from Germany so unfortunately, American physicians probably didn’t hear about it until 2003 when the story was reported in the respected Journal of Internal Medicine. The title of that article is “Effects of short-term treatment with metformin on serum concentrations of homocysteine, folate, and vitamin B12 in type 2 diabetes mellitus: a randomized, placebo-controlled trial.” There was also a study in 1997 published in the Scandinavian Journal of Clinical & Laboratory Investigation that stated, “In conclusion, metformin treatment increased total homocysteine levels and decreased levels of vitamin B12 and folate.” Up to 30 percent of people taking biguanide drugs (like metformin) experience poor absorption of vitamin B12, according to Diabetologia (1983) and withdrawal of this drug resulted in normal absorption in only half of those with malabsorption. In other words, just taking the medicine means that half of you still need long-term B12 supplementation, because your B12 won’t automatically rise upon discontinuation of the drug. Low B12 and folate could contribute or possibly cause tingling or numbness in the hands or feet (termed neuropathy), depression, megaloblastic anemia, weakness, rapid heart rate, confusion, memory loss, dementia, diarrhea/constipation, chronic fatigue, sciatica, as well as a higher risk of heart disease (which you already have if you are diabetic). Do you think I’m telling you to stop your medicine? I’m not. I am trying to keep you safe, and help you learn what nutrients to put back. Replenishing what the drug mugger stole reduces your risk of side effects, helps you avoid new diagnosis, as well as remain compliant with your medication. Hopefully, your doctor has my book, and has already told you to take a good B12 and folic acid supplement, as well (and this is important), a good probiotic, since you require beneficial bacteria to manufacture B12. People overlook that one huge factor. Sulfonylureas (glipizide, glyburide, glimepiride) can increase the risk of CoQ10 deficiency according to a study on coenzyme Q10 published in 1976, in the Journal of Medicine. That can lead to fatigue, shortness of breath, and heart arrhythmias. Here is a list of the sulfonylurea drugs – generic first, then brand name: Glipizide (Glucotrol); Glyburide (Diabeta, Micronase & Glynase Prestab); Glimepiride (Amaryl); Tolazamide (Tolinase); Chlorpropamide (Diabinese); Tolbutamide (Orinase). Again, pay attention to the drug muggers. ISI

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Unclaimed Money Just Waiting to Be Found We all know the popular phrase, “I wish money grew on trees.” And while unfortunately that isn’t the case, there are ways you can find money owed to you without having to do much work to find it. If the government owes people money, and they don’t collect it, it’s considered unclaimed money. You can find this money yourself without having to pay a third party company to do it for you. The following resources from USA.gov can help you find money owed to you: While the federal government doesn’t have one general site for you to input your information to find all sources of unclaimed money, you can get the official links to individual sites on USA.

gov’s popular Unclaimed Money from the Government page. Search for retirement pensions, tax refunds, mortgage insurance refunds, and much more. And you can find out about benefits and federal aid if you’re looking for financial assistance. Individual states can also owe you unclaimed money. The National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA) suggests you search in each state you have lived. NAUPA provides an interactive map to connect you directly to each state’s website for unclaimed money. According to TreasuryDirect.gov, every year 25,000 interest payments are returned to the

Department of the Treasury as undeliverable and billions of dollars in mature savings bonds remain uncashed. Treasury Hunt can help you find out if your savings bonds are no longer earning interest so you can cash them in or reinvest the money. You can also find unclaimed money through the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). If a company you bought stocks, bonds, or other investments from committed misconduct that caused you a financial loss, and the SEC conducted an enforcement action against the company, there may be an investors claims fund set up to help pay you back. ISI

Postponing Retirement? How to Apply for Medicare While You’re Still Working By Ross Blair As more people work past age 65, the eligibility age for Medicare, more people will need to navigate an increasingly complex web of employer and Medicare coverage. The decisions they make today could have costly, long-term implications. A recent survey of caregivers conducted by eHealth, the parent company of PlanPrescriber. com, found that 80 percent of baby boomers expect to be working after their 65th birthday. Many will have health insurance through their employer. But this group must also consider how Medicare affects their coverage and their choices.

The same survey found that many baby boomers do not understand basic parts of how the Medicare program actually works. Certain parts of Medicare coverage are only guaranteed when you first become eligible for the program – even if you are working. Applying for Medicare While Working – When you turn 65 and continue to work, you have some decisions to make about employer coverage versus Medicare. To help you avoid costly mistakes, we have compiled a list of five things to keep in mind: 1. Understand the basics of how Original Medicare (Parts A and B) works and be aware

of some cost-sharing gaps. Original Medicare is a great benefit that covers core services. For example, when you are admitted into a medical facility, like a hospital or skilled nursing facility, Medicare Part A typically pays for your care. If you see a doctor or specialist in an outpatient setting, like a doctor’s office or rehab center, Part B typically pays for your care. But, original Medicare benefits have some gaps. Neither Part A nor Part B will pay 100 percent of your costs, and neither Part A nor Part B covers prescription drugs. Parts A and B have their own separate deductibles, and Part A’s deductible typically resets 60 days after you are discharged from a hospital or skilled nursing facility. After you reach your Part B deductible, there is cost-sharing “coinsurance” wherein Medicare pays a percentage of every bill (typically 20 percent to 45 percent). And Parts A and B may have additional cost sharing for other services or for care that extends past a set number of days. These gaps are typically what prompt a person to stay with their employer-based coverage as long as possible, or to buy Medicare supplemental insurance http://www.agingcare. com/Articles/Take-out-Confusion-from-BuyingMedicare-Supplemental-Insurance-133610.htm. 2. Understand how your employer-based insurance works with Part A Most of us are automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A when we turn 65, even if we have employer-based insurance. The way Part A works with your employer’s plan will depend on the size of the company where you work. In most cases, if you work for a company with fewer than 20 employees, Medicare will become the primary payer of your hospitalization costs. Your employer’s insurer becomes the secondary payer and covers gaps in coverage. If you work for a larger company, the company’s insurer typically remains as the primary payer. Most people become eligible for Part A (hospital insurance) at age 65, and most people do not pay a monthly premium for Part A. Even with employer-based coverage, Part A can help pay for costs not covered by your employer’s plan. 3. Understand how your employer-based insurance works with Part B. Those with employer-based insurance can wait until they lose that insurance to enroll in Part B. Part B has a premium – most people pay a standard premium amount, which is $104.90 a month in 2013. If you have private insurance through another source, like an employer or union, there is no reason to pay that $104.90 until you have to. But there are some caveats. You typically must enroll in Part B within eight months of losing the job that gave you health insurance or within eight months of losing the health insurance from that job, whichever comes first. Waiting longer than eight months creates a gap in your cover-

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age, and any gap in Part B coverage benefits can be penalized, permanently. It’s a good idea to talk to your employer health benefits administrator or a licensed agent who can clearly explain your options to you. 4. Know how COBRA works with Part A and Part B. COBRA provides certain former employees and spouses the right to temporarily continue health coverage at group rates. However, it’s expensive, so people who qualify for Medicare often decline costly COBRA and switch to Medicare. But if your spouse is not 65 and therefore not eligible for Medicare, COBRA may be their best option. Here is where it gets tricky. By law, a person can stay on COBRA for 18 months. But if you’re eligible for Medicare, you only have eight months to sign up for Part B after your employment, or employer-based health insurance, ends. Even if you’re on COBRA. If you are on COBRA, do not wait until your COBRA ends to enroll in Part B. If you do not enroll in Part B during that eight-month period, you will incur a 10 percent Part B premium penalty for every 12-month period that you were not enrolled. If you miss the first enrollment window, you will need to wait until Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period (Oct. 15 through Dec. 7) to sign up for Part B. And your coverage will not begin until Jan. 1 of the following year. 5. If you want to supplement your Medicare coverage, know the deadlines. There are a couple of ways to help fill the “cost-sharing” gaps in original Medicare, including Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plans. People can enroll in Medicare Advantage (also called Medicare Part C plans) as an alter-

IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT PAGE 35

native to original Medicare. These plans allow a person to receive their Part A and Part B benefits, as well as Part D in most cases, from a private insurance company through a single consolidated plan. While Medicare Advantage plans can and often do have some of the same cost-sharing (deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance) associated with Original Medicare, they cap your out-of-pocket expenses at $6,700 or less, depending on the plan. According to eHealth’s 2013 Medicare Advantage Plan Landscape Data Summary, the average Medicare Advantage plan costs $60 a month on top of what one pays for original Medicare; and the average cap on out-of-pocket costs for 2013 is about $4,500. By comparison, original Medicare has no such cap on out-of-pocket expenses. Remember, you’ll typically be signed up for Part A automatically when you turn 65. When you stop working and lose your employer-based plan, you have eight months to enroll in Part B. And you have three months to sign up for a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C) after you’ve signed up for Medicare Part B. Choosing a Medicare Advantage plan http://www.agingcare.com/Articles/ choosing-a-Medicare-advantage-plan-148111. htm can be tricky. Medicare Supplement plans (also called Medigap plans) are offered as a supplement to original Medicare, not as an alternative like the Medicare Advantage plans. In most states, a person can enroll in one of 10 standardized Medicare Supplements plans, which must all provide the same core benefits, regardless of which insurer offers them. Plans typically do not include a prescription drug benefit, but the most comprehensive supplement plans often cover virtually all of a person’s Part A and Part B out-

of-pocket costs. The Open Enrollment Period for Medigap policies (supplement insurance) starts the first month a beneficiary is both 65 and enrolled in Part B, and it lasts for six months. As long as you have coverage through your employer, you typically won’t need Part B or a Medicare Supplement plan. Once you sign up for Part B, you don’t want to miss the Medigap Open Enrollment Period. Outside of your initial Medigap Open Enrollment Period, your application for a Medigap plan could be declined if you have a pre-existing condition. Or if your health condition is covered, your premium may be higher. Some Medigap plans may require you to pay premiums but wait a few months before they’ll cover any expenses. For many baby boomers, becoming eligible for Medicare means access to more affordable health care. When you are working after age 65, you have more options. Taking the time to understand all your options will help you select the coverage that is best for you. Ross Blair is the President and CEO of PlanPrescriber.com, a leading provider of comparison tools and educational materials for Medicarerelated insurance products. ISI

Paying Taxes Submitted by Jim Meade A nervous taxpayer was unhappily conversing with the IRS auditor who had come to review his records. At one point the auditor exclaimed, “We feel it is a great privi-

lege to be allowed to live and work in the USA. As a citizen you have an obligation to pay taxes, and we expect you to pay them eagerly with a smile.” “Thank God,” replied the taxpayer. “I thought you were going to want cash.” ISI

The Theory of Purchase-Denial Economics By Pearl Hoffman, Los Angeles Glancing through the pages of the Los Angeles Times, I saw the ad for the half-yearly sale at Dresher’s department store, promising a 50%-off coupon at the bottom of the page, and, if a Dresher’s charge was used, there would be an additional 10% reduction. I was at the Mall entrance to Dresher’s in 30 minutes. Almost immediately, I found two pair of designer jeans that fit me like a dream. With the 50% reduction and the additional advantage of the coupon and the Dresher’s charge, the savings amounted to a tidy $91.50. Then, after scanning a few racks of sale items, I found a lovely light blue sweater; reductions saved $47.90. It was now time to put the Theory of PurchaseDenial Economics to work and turn these savings into a real bonanza. I placed the sweater and pants back on the racks and promptly left the store. In the space of a mere 35 minutes, simply by not buying the pants and sweater, I saved a total of $139.40. What good fortune! With this substantial savings in tow, I trotted as fast as my short legs could carry me to the far end of the Mall. There, at Marshall-Steven Emporium, I browsed their current winter clearance sale. I found a neatly tailored, pearl gray cashmere jacket, reduced from $250 to a mere $140. Since I had just saved $139.40 by my shrewd non-purchases at Dresher’s, I was able to get the jacket at, technically, no cost to me! There was, however, the charge for sales tax. “If only I had not purchased one more item at Dresher’s,” I chided myself, “I would have had the sales tax covered as well.”

Then I remembered that on my last visit to Ralph’s Market, my sales receipt showed my total Ralph Club savings was $11.07. Happily, this reimbursed the sales tax. I sang as I drove home. That evening I explained my financial wizardry to my husband, Arny. I held back nothing. I explained in detail how, by my non-purchase maneuvering and my adroit application of the Purchase–Denial principle, I was able to acquire the wonderful cashmere jacket, absolutely free! Over the years, I have saved a small fortune in this fashion, but Arny has never acknowledged my bargain acquisitions. This time, however, he seemed openly impressed. He said he fully understood the Principle of Purchase Denial. “It proves,” he declared, “that figures don’t lie, but liars can figure.” By Jove, I think he’s got it! ISI

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Living Trusts By Brent Walker, CPA Rudd & Company As people begin the process of estate planning, they are likely to hear estate planners reference living trusts as an important tool. These trusts are often recommended as a better alternative than working through the probate process. However, this does not always hold true. One should make sure to understand the advantages and disadvantages of utilizing a living trust. A living trust is setup during one’s lifetime to hold the majority of one’s assets. The trust is revocable, which allows for the movement of assets both in and out of the trust at your discretion. Upon death, the trust becomes irrevocable which protects the assets and ensures they will be distributed or used according to stated desires. The trust allows for the disposal of assets in the same way as a standard will. The most common advantage cited in using a living trust, rather than a will, is avoiding the probate process. By avoiding probate, a person generally expects to reduce or avoid executor and/or attorney fees, as well as probate court costs. However, these savings are often much

smaller than expected. For example, one may avoid attorney fees resulting from the probate process. However, one will incur attorney fees early in the process as the trust is drafted and assets are transferred into the trust. The maximum fees allowed to a personal representative have been capped at three percent of the first $40,000 of the estate’s value. The rate then changes to two percent of the estate’s value over $40,000. The amounts can vary by state. Attorneys have also been restricted so their fees cannot exceed one and one-half times the compensation permissible to the personal representative. However, this does not mean that the personal representative and/or attorney should be guaranteed the maximum amount of fees allowed. Do not hesitate to discuss fees upfront and determine what method is acceptable for both parties. Some attorneys will agree to an hourly rate, which may reduce fees significantly, depending on the complexity of the estate. Another common misconception regarding living trusts is that they help reduce estate taxes. A living trust has no effect on income or estate

taxes. During one’s lifetime, the income earned in the trust can be taxed on one’s personal return. Upon death, the assets held in the living trusts are still considered part of the gross estate and will be reported on the estate tax return. So, when does a living trust provide real advantages? There are situations in which the living trust may be the best opportunity. For example, in the event of incapacity, the appointed trustee can manage the assets and income, by the power the trust provides, for your benefit. In addition, if one owns property in another state, a living trust can eliminate the need to go through the probate process in the other state. Living trusts also may lead to faster distributions and avoidance of disputes by allowing one clearly to outline intent well ahead of the time of death. When you weigh the advantages and disadvantages of living trusts, it becomes clear there are many factors to consider when estate planning. It is important you find a person or team you trust to help draft a plan that protects you and your assets while achieving your goals in an effective manner. ISI

We cannot live only for ourselves. A thousand fibers connect us with our fellow men; and among those fibers, as symathetic threads, our actions run as causes, and they come back to us in effects. - Herman Melville

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Ready For A Road Trip? Simplify Travel With Older Loved Ones By Lisa M. Petsche If you are planning to take an older relative on a vacation that involves car travel, thorough preparation is the key to success, especially if the person has special health care needs. Follow these tips for a safe and enjoyable stay. Planning – Set realistic expectations for the trip. Take into account your loved one’s needs and limitations. Make plans and start necessary preparations well in advance. Make lists to keep organized and prevent last-minute stress. Include your relative in the preparations to the best of his/her ability. Research the accessibility of accommodations and attractions you wish to visit. If you are planning to stay at a motel or hotel, make reservations, especially if you will need specific features such as a room with handicapped facilities or a ground floor room. Learn the location of the nearest hospital in any areas you plan to visit. Avoid destinations where a hospital is far away. Arrange for your relative to visit the doctor pre-trip. Share your travel plans and any healthrelated concerns, such as motion sickness, bladder issues, or circulatory problems. If your loved one has trouble walking long distances, rent a folding wheelchair or ensure that the places you plan to visit have some wheelchairs available. Have your car checked and serviced before your departure. If you are going to an unfamiliar area, obtain a road map and study it. If you belong to an automobile club, take advantage of its route planning service. Plan to do as much driving as possible during off-peak traffic times. Or choose the scenic route if time and your loved one’s sitting tolerance permit. Packing – Use wheeled luggage to make handling easier (borrow from friends if necessary). Include the following items when drawing up a packing list: Loose-fitting, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, a wide-brimmed hat, and a cardigan for air-conditioned environments and cool evenings. Sufficient prescription and over-the-counter medication to cover the time you plan to be away, plus a few extra days’ worth in case your return is delayed. Sunscreen, insect repellent, antihistamine, and motion sickness tablets. List of loved one’s health conditions and medications in case of a medical emergency. Necessary medical equipment and supplies, such as a walking aid, food supplements, incontinence pads, and diabetic supplies.

A cushion or two for comfortable positioning in the car. Extra pair of eyeglasses and hearing aid batteries. Sunglasses and umbrellas (the latter for instant shade). Pillow and nightlight. Snacks and a cooler containing sandwiches and cold drinks. Favorite music or books on tape for the ride. Emergency roadside and first aid kits. Cell phone. Don’t forget to charge it and bring a recharging unit along. Disabled parking permit. Driving Top up the gas tank at frequent intervals. Stop approximately once per hour for stretch breaks or short walks. Choose stops that have clean, well-lit restrooms with good accessibility. Wear seatbelts and, if your relative is in the front seat, ensure that the headrest is centered at the back of his/her head. Encourage your loved one to shift his/ her weight often and to do neck and shoulder stretches and foot flexes. Lodging When checking in, ask for a room close to the lobby or elevator. A ground floor room is ideal in case of an emergency in which the elevators become inoperable. If your relative has a back problem, request a room with a recently replaced mattress. Recreation Space out activities and allow ample time for

each. Schedule outings for the time of day when your loved one’s energy level is highest. Stick to regular meal, medication, and sleep times. Have a flexible itinerary. Take things one day – and one activity – at a time. Be forthcoming with service providers about any special needs your loved one may have. Ensure plenty of time for rest and relaxation! Beat the heat with these tips: Sun sense: Try to avoid exposure to the sun

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during its peak intensity, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Ensure your relative’s clothing provides as much coverage as possible. Liberally apply sunscreen to exposed areas. Take frequent breaks in the shade. If necessary, create your own shade with umbrellas. Heat wave hints: Check the weather forecast each morning. Cancel outdoor plans if a heat alert

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or smog alert is issued. Avoid unnecessary physical activity. For example, take a bus, tram, or boat tour instead of a walking tour. Avoid situations that involve a crowd. Plan to spend the hottest part of the day in a climate controlled environment, such as a mall, museum, or other indoor tourist attraction.

Eat lighter but more frequent meals that include foods high in water content. Provide your loved one with extra fluids, and take some along whenever you go out. Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages. Lisa M. Petsche is a medical social worker and a freelance writer specializing in elder care. ISI

Dementia: Your Questions Answered By Eric Collett, Executive Director Emerson House Working at a beautiful memory care community in Garden City, I have found that many families caring for a loved one with dementia are hungry for information but do not know where to turn. They have questions about the dementia itself and how to care for their affected family member. Almost everyone I have ever spoken to about memory problems has asked me to explain the

difference between Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Many healthcare providers use these terms interchangeably, so confusion is understandable. But, I have found it most helpful to speak in terms of Alzheimer’s as a cause and dementia as the effect. Dementia refers to a set of symptoms, including memory loss that disrupts daily life, difficulty manipulating numbers, challenges in sequencing tasks, lack of social awareness, difficulty focusing, impaired judgment, and problems with visual perception. When someone shows these symptoms, it is accurate to say they have dementia. Alzheimer’s disease accounts for 60% to 80% of those symptoms we call dementia. The disease is a progressive, terminal illness that destroys brain cells and causes a buildup of protein plaques and tangled, damaged brain cells. Alzheimer’s, named for the German neuropsychiatrist Alois Alzheimer who discovered the disease in 1906, affects the memory center of the brain first, then progressively causes deterioration in every other part of the brain. By late stages, those with Alzheimer’s lose approximately 50% of the mass of their brains and experience deficits in every area: speech, movement, vision, taste, smell, processing verbal and nonverbal sounds, and other key tasks. Alzheimer’s disease is currently the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. Being diagnosed with dementia is often frightening for the affected person and his or her family and friends. Fear often leads people to delay getting a proper diagnosis. I frequently meet with families who lived in denial for lengthy periods, often passing off their loved one’s progressively erratic behavior as evidence of “just getting older.” I have learned over the years that early diagnosis and treatment are extremely important because many conditions that cause dementia symptoms are treatable. When detected early, these situations can be quickly resolved,

greatly enhancing the individual’s quality of life. Treatable causes of dementia include urinary tract infections, depression, dehydration, medication problems, thyroid problems, and vitamin deficiencies. Further, medications that may provide some slowing of Alzheimer’s are usually most effective in earlier stages before so much damage is done. Families often ask me how to know when it is time to move a loved one to memory care. The best advice I can give is first to understand the disease process and where the affected person is in that process, to consider risk factors, not to wait for a crisis to force action, and carefully to consider how well the needs of the whole person are being served. Current research shows that people with dementia especially need physical activity, socialization, routines, and opportunities that give them a sense of meaning and purpose. Providing for these needs in the home can often be very difficult. The physical and emotional toll care giving has on spousal and other family caregivers should be considered. The need to move before a crisis develops deserves special consideration. Because the decision to move a family member to a community setting usually brings with it feelings of guilt, many families wait for a crisis to force the issue. Most of the time, a crisis involves the affected person either wandering away from the home or suffering a major decline. These situations are highly stressful for the affected person. Moving is also highly stressful. Waiting for a catastrophe guarantees adding the stress of a move on top of the stress of the crisis. Since stress often causes dementia to worsen, many people decline rapidly when they are moved during a crisis. Planning a move before major physical declines, wandering, or other crises develop allows the affected person to adjust to a new environment before physical declines set in and helps to ensure their continued safety. As frightening as Alzheimer’s disease and the dramatic changes it causes can be, I have learned that those affected still have songs to sing, stories to share, and joy to bring into the lives of those they touch. Taking the time to understand the disease, learning how those affected perceive the world, and finding personalized ways to meet their needs help the rest of us unlock the gifts these wonderful people have to share. ISI

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The Value Of Respite – Enjoy Personal Time By Lisa M. Petsche While the days of summer offer many of us the chance to enjoy a well–deserved break, sometimes family caregivers are reluctant to take one. They know that their responsibilities are constant, regardless of the season. But time away from caregiving duties – commonly known as respite – is essential in order for caregivers to provide optimal care to their relative. Breaks can take place at home or away, and involve anywhere from a few minutes or hours to several days or weeks. The goal of respite is to refresh caregivers physically, mentally, and spiritually. The change of pace – and often environment – can renew their energy and restore their perspective. When practiced regularly, respite helps keep the stresses of caregiving manageable, warding off physical and emotional burnout. While respite is a year-round need, the dog days of summer are the perfect time to begin the habit of taking time out from caregiving. If you are regularly providing care to a senior relative, read on for some seasonal self-care tips. Even if you are not a caregiver, these suggestions are worth checking out. Lighten the load If finances permit, hire a yard maintenance service or a neighborhood youth to cut the lawn. Otherwise, get a mulching mower so you don’t have to bag grass. Buy low-maintenance outdoor plants or consider container gardening. Make double batches of meals and freeze half so you don’t have to cook on hot days, or stock up on pre-cooked foods that only require warming. Better yet, order takeout food during a heat wave. Just be sure to make healthy choices. When summer sun and heat keep you indoors, research options for adult day care, which would allow you a significant break and your loved one additional stimulation. You might also locate a suitable caregiver support group in your area.

Many take a summer hiatus, but you can learn about options for the fall. Contact your local office on aging or the non-profit organization associated with your loved one’s medical condition. Don’t pass up an opportunity for a vacation, with or without your loved one, whether to a friend’s cabin, a resort, an out-of-town wedding or other special event, or to visit relatives at a distance. Enjoy personal time Get a portable baby monitor or two-way radios to allow you to engage in outdoor pursuits worryfree while your loved one is resting or engaged in indoor activities. Read a magazine about a favorite summer pastime – gardening or golf, for example. Have a picnic in your backyard or a nearby park. Plan an outing to a sporting or cultural event, such as a baseball game or a summer festival. Listen to relaxation tapes that feature your favorite summer sounds – for example, a waterfall, gentle rain, birds, or other wildlife. Sit on your front porch or balcony or go to a park and people-watch. Go to the local farmers’ market and marvel at the offerings. Pick up a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables as well as favorite meat, cheeses and baked goods. Take a drive in the country or the old neighborhood. Pamper yourself Buy toiletries in a favorite summer scent, such as lily of the valley or peach. Grill your favorite meats and vegetables. Try some new marinades or salad dressings, for variety. Stock up on refreshing drinks, such as lemonade and iced tea, or the necessary ingredients to make your own, if you prefer. Buy a box of favorite ice cream treats the next time you’re at the grocery store. Or head out to your local Dairy Queen for an ice cream cone,

sundae, milkshake, or float. Bring in flowers from your garden and display them in an attractive vase. Purchase something seasonal for your enjoyment – for example, an addition to your wardrobe, an indoor plant or a new plant for your garden, wind chimes, a bird feeder, solar lights or an outdoor lounge chair. Shop by mail order if it’s hard to get out. Invest in a set of satiny smooth bed sheets. Buy votive candles in floral or fruit scents and place them in decorative holders. If you don’t have central air conditioning, get a window air conditioner or oscillating fans for the rooms you use the most. Keeping cool will help prevent irritability and maintain your energy level. Lisa M. Petsche is a medical social worker and a freelance writer specializing in boomer and senior issues. ISI

When You Only Need To Visit

Convalescing Without Stressing By Lisa M. Petsche Recovering from surgery or a prolonged acute illness takes time and requires patience. It also calls for practical adjustments, especially for those who live alone. Fortunately, with some thought and creativity, many everyday tasks can be simplified to make maximum use of limited energy. If you or a loved one is convalescing, or has surgery scheduled in the near future, read on for ideas for streamlining daily life in order to prevent setbacks and facilitate your recovery. You may wish to continue some of these practices after your recuperation, to minimize stress and free up more time for leisure activities. Prioritize and Organize Curb perfectionism. Not everything needs to be done to a high standard. Take housework and yard maintenance, for example. Set a time limit and use a timer for chores if necessary. Establish and stick to priorities, so you don’t waste time or energy on unimportant things. Perform important activities at the time of day when your energy level is at its peak. Typically this is the morning, or after a nap. Pace yourself. Break down tasks into steps

that can be performed with breaks in between. TRANSITIONAL CARE Refrain from rushing or performing activities to the point of fatigue. any people happily call Royal Plaza home. But many Whenever possible, sit down to perform tasks don’t need to live here, they just need a visit to get back on their feet after hospitalization for an injury, illness – for example, preparing food, and folding laundry. or surgery before they go home. Keep frequently used items close to the point of use and within easy reach. Our Transitional Care Unit has the comforts of home• Private Rooms If you have recently had surgery, review any • Great Food provided educational materials. They may include • Wonderful Caregivers energy conservation tips specific to your situation. And the care needed to If there are others in your household, enlist get you home• Physical Therapy their help with everyday tasks. Be specific about • Skilled Nursing what you need. • Meds & Pain Management Ensure you have a portable phone so you can • Transportation for Medical Visits easily answer calls, or an answering machine to take messages. Royal Plaza’s 2870 Juniper Drive | Lewiston, ID 83501 Meal Preparation and Home Maintenance Transitional Care Unit RoyalPlazaLewiston.com we make sure you Prepare one-dish meals, such as casseroles, go home to stay home Care Center: 208.746.2855 stews, soups, stir fries, and main course salads. Get a crock pot if you don’t already own one. Cook double batches of recipes and freeze half for later use. we are devoted to enriching the lives of those entrusted to us. Keep a supply of

M

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Prestige Care & Rehabilitation

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www.prestigecare.com

PAGE 40 IDAHO SENIOR INDEPENDENT

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heat-and-serve entrees in the freezer. Buy convenience foods that reduce preparation time: packaged salads, shredded cheese, fresh or frozen mixed vegetables, and boneless chicken breasts, for example. Order takeout once or twice a week. Just make healthy choices. Keep menus in a folder for easy reference. Concentrate cleaning and tidying efforts on the rooms that are used the most. Do full loads of laundry whenever possible. Ensure you have enough basic clothing – including underwear and socks – to last for a week. Buy clothes that can be machine-washed and -dried and resist wrinkles. Replace frequently used manual kitchen utensils and other household tools with electric counterparts – for example, can opener, pill crusher, and screwdriver. Pay for help if you can afford it – for example, a dog walker, housecleaning service, grounds keep-

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ing service, handyman, or accountant. Or, hire a trustworthy neighborhood teen or young adult to do yard maintenance and perhaps errands such as going to the post office and picking up sundry items from the corner store. Arrange with the bank for direct deposit of pension and other checks and automatic payment of regular bills. If you have a computer, sign up for online banking so you can pay bills, transfer money, and check balances from home. Shopping and Errands Shop through mail order catalogs using the telephone or Internet. For gift-giving occasions, purchase gift cards; many kinds are available online, as well as on display near checkouts at department stores and drug stores. Take advantage of stores and other services that offer home delivery (for example, grocery stores, drug stores, and dry cleaners). Keep lists of groceries needed and errands to be done. Investigate available community resources,

history of caring.

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which might include meals on wheels, housekeeping services, mobile hairdressing services, volunteer driver programs, and accessible transportation. Coordinate errands and avoid peak use times of the day, week, or month when visiting stores, banks, government offices, and other establishments. For shopping and other outings involving considerable walking, rent a transport wheelchair (lightweight and folding) if you have someone who can accompany you and push it. Otherwise, take advantage of electric scooters available for customers in stores and malls. Lisa M. Petsche is a medical social worker and a freelance writer specializing in boomer and senior issues. ISI

Senior Eye Care Programs By Jim Miller Dear Savvy Senior, I have been wearing glasses for more than 40 years now, but recently my eyes have taken a turn for the worse. Can you recommend any organizations that provide low-cost eye care for seniors on a tight budget? Nearsighted Sal Dear Sal, Several eye care programs and resources may be able to help you – depending on your circumstances. Here are some to review. Community Resources – The best way to learn about free or discounted eye care or eyeglass programs in your community is to contact your local Lions Club. Programs and eligibility requirements will vary by community. Call your local Lions Club chapter, call Lions Clubs International at 800-7474448, or visit www.lionsclubs.org to find out what is available in your neighborhood. Another good local resource is the “Give the Gift of Sight” program (www.givethegiftofsight. org) that provides free vision screening and new glasses to people who cannot afford them. Gift of Sight also offers an outreach program where trained volunteers visit nursing homes, hospitals and senior centers to adjust eyewear, and provide free vision screenings. For more information, contact your local LensCrafters store. To find a store in your area call 800-541-5367 or visit www. lenscrafters.com. National Programs – Have you heard of EyeCare America’s – Senior EyeCare Program? A national program coordinated by the American Academy of Ophthalmology that provides free medical eye care to all U.S. citizens age 65 and older who have not seen an ophthalmologist in three or more years and don’t belong to an HMO or the VA. They also offer diabetes, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) eye care programs too – eligibility requirements vary for each program. For more information or to find if you qualify, call 800-222-3937 or visit www. eyecareamerica.org. Some other programs that may help include: • Knights Templar Eye Foundation: This charitable foundation provides assistance for medical eye care, for those under age 65 who do not qualify for Medicaid or have private insurance and cannot afford to pay for care. For information call 847-4903838 or visit www.knightstemplar.org/ktef. • Vision USA: Coordinated by the American Optometric Association (AOA), Vision USA provides free eye health and vision care services to uninsured and low-income workers and their families who have no other means of obtaining care. Visit www.aoa.org and click on “AOA Public Programs” or call 800-766-4466. • New Eyes for the Needy: This is an international eyeglass program that accepts donations of used prescription eyeglasses and distributes them to people with limited incomes. To learn more visit www.neweyesfortheneedy.org or call 973-3764903. Savvy Note: Medicare covers 80 percent of the allowed charges for cataract surgery and one pair of eyeglasses after surgery. ISI

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Exploring Cascade Article & Photos by Natalie Bartley Located in west central Idaho, the town of Cascade serves as home base for outdoor adventures. Hiking to alpine lakes, shooting rapids in a whitewater park, and paddling a kayak to an island are a few of the many summer options. After the snow melts from mountain trails in the area, usually mid-summer depending on the winter snowpack, hikers head to the Boise National Forest. Located south of Cascade, Blue Lake is a popular destination due to its splendor and ease of access. It’s a one-mile descent via Blue Lake Trail #119 on a well-used path leading hikers to the blue-hued water reflecting the cliffs and trees rimming the lake. Later in the hiking season during low water levels, it’s possible to walk to the three small rock islands. Remember to save some energy for the uphill trek back to the trailhead. For another perspective of the area, leave the trailhead and drive up Snowbank Road to the radar stations at the top of Snowbank Mountain. At 8,322 feet elevation, both high points offer 360-degree views. Lake Cascade and the North Fork of the Payette River are visible to the east, tantalizing visitors with their beauty and recreational opportunities. Evenings on Snowbank Mountain include a pink alpine glow as the sun descends. On clear nights, stars twinkle in the dark skies while lights flicker in the eastern and western valleys far below the ridge. Be ready for wildlife sightings while visiting the forest. Deer, elk, and black bear sightings are common, especially at dusk and dawn. Access Blue Lake by taking Idaho Highway 55 to Cabarton Road, about seven miles south of Cascade. Turn west on Cabarton Road, drive 2.5 miles then turn west onto Snowbank Road (Forest Road #446), an unpaved road. Continue approximately 9 miles to the large parking area at the Blue Lake

Trailhead. Access the radar station overlooks by driving up Snowbank Road approximately three miles to the first radar station, then drive approximately another mile to the second site. Snowbank Road closes to public use from November 16 to May 31. Call the Boise National Forest Cascade Ranger District for current conditions. Any trip to Cascade ought to include a visit to Kelly’s Whitewater Park, located just off Highway 55 near mile marker 114 in Cascade. The park consists of a 250foot long whitewater section of the North Fork of the Payette River and a Welcome Center. Five river features within the water park create waves where kayakers, inner tube riders, surfers, canoeists, and boogie boarders enjoy the whitewater. If you don’t have time to get on the water, visit the Welcome Center. Educational displays indicate the influence of Native Americans, settlers, ranchers, railroads, miners, tourism, and the timber industry on Valley County through the decades. From inside the center, visitors gaze through large windows facing the East Mountain and watch kayakers playing on the waves. While at the park, expect to see many birds. Great blue herons, ducks, eagles, osprey, and other birds are sighted. Find the park by driving Idaho Highway 55 to the southern end of Cascade. Turn east at the park entry near highway mile-marker 114. You can rent a tube or kayak from Gear & Grind rental shop located south of the entrance. An alternative to whitewater sports is paddling a kayak or canoe on Lake Cascade to Sugarloaf Island. The forested slopes of the Boise National Forest and the Payette National Forest surrounding Lake Cascade will be in constant view as you paddle. In the spring and early summer, the scenery is enhanced by the contrast of the blue skyline against the glittering white of the remaining snow on the mountain ridges. Launch your boat from the Sugarloaf Boat Ramp Day Use area next to the Sugarloaf Campground, a unit of the Lake Cascade State Park. Paddle out of a small bay, then north along the eastern shore, and finally westward to the island. Depending on the winds and your paddling skills, it may take 30 to 90 minutes to get to the Sugarloaf Island. Keep alert for windy lake conditions. The shallow, long reservoir generates big waves in heavy wind and is dangerous for small craft. Boaters are wise to paddle in the morning or when the wind is calm for the easiest, safest journey. Once at the island, have lunch on the shoreline or stretch your legs by bushwhacking up the eastern flank of the island through grass, weeds, and sagebrush to the island’s highest point. The west side is steep and thickly vegetated with pine trees. Plan on two to three hours for an excursion. Get to the Sugarloaf Boat Ramp by traveling Idaho Highway 55 north from the south side bridge in Cascade for approximately eight miles then turn west onto Stonebreaker Lane. The Sugarloaf Boat Ramp is 1.7 miles from the highway. You can see the island from Idaho Highway 55 while traveling between Cascade and McCall. Consider extending your explorations in the area by camping at one of the many Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation campgrounds along the shoreline of Lake Cascade. Reservations are recommended, especially on the weekends. ISI

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Finally Putting Away the Golf Clubs, But Not the Jokes By Tait Trussell Thousands of jokes and one-liners have been told about the great game of golf. Innumerable hours of joy and frustration have been spent on courses across the globe by millions of people. What’s not funny at all, however, is when the time finally comes when your age tells you that you can’t play anymore. An old buddy, also ripe in years, was a competitor for many summers. We knew he was on his last legs when I was consistently beating him. That was his last year. Now, it’s my turn to put away my clubs. I can still chip and putt on the practice green. But not for more than about 20 minutes. I do hope many readers will have many years more of the inevitable ups and down of the great game. Here are a few golf chuckles some of which you may not have heard: “Golf is played by 20 million mature American men whose wives think they are having fun,” asserted the wisecracking late New York journalist Jim Bishop. A lonely wife purportedly said, “When I die, bury me on the golf course so my husband will come visit.” The game is the target of brutal and sometimes amusing comments from a range of celebrities as well as some of the most famed players of the sport. Lee Trevino once complained about problems he was having with his game by stating, “I’m not saying my golf game went bad, but if I grew tomatoes they would have come up sliced.” Tre-

vino also was quoted as griping, “I’m in the woods so much I can tell you which plants are edible.” Another Trevino crack, “You don’t know what pressure is until you’ve played for five dollars a hole with only two dollars in your pocket.” “The only time my prayers are never answered is on the golf course,” said Billy Graham. “May the ball lie in green pastures... and not in still waters,” said an unknown author. Another said, “A golfer has an advantage over a fisherman. He doesn’t have to produce anything to prove his story.” Anyone who plays the great game expects when they are about to start a game that they are bound to play better than the last time they were on the course. With a game that is rife with uncertainties you have to have hope. “The harder you work at it, the luckier you get,” advised the winner of many major tournaments, Gary Player. “Competitive golf is played mainly on a fiveand-a-half inch course – the space between your ears,” explained the immortal golfer Bobby Jones. Someone commented, “I’ve spent most of my life playing golf; the rest I’ve just wasted.” Mark Twain recommended, “It’s good sportsmanship to not pick up lost golf balls while they are still rolling.” Bob Hope had a bagful of jokes about golf. “I like to play in the low ‘70s. If it gets any hotter than that I’ll stay in the clubhouse.” Hope actually did shoot in the 70s. I remember the fun of following him around when he played in a tournament at the

Seniors and Families Jumping on the “Pickleball Express” Pickleball (PB) – what is it? America’s fastest growing sport is a racquet sport combing elements of badminton, tennis, and table tennis. PB is rapidly gaining popularity with families and seniors as an inexpensive sport with a silly name. PB is less stressful physically than tennis and does not require as much speed and agility. To play, you serve a perforated ball underhand and pass it over a net to a team of two. They pass it back and the ball can quickly ricochet back and forth, based on player skill. An official court is a little smaller than a tennis court and the net is 2 inches lower. PB courts can be easily merged, at very little cost, with tennis courts to make them dual purpose. A fun healthy sport, PB is rapidly growing in popularity worldwide. How did this fun sport John Sweeting, the USAPA’s, Pacific Norrthwest Reget its silly name? In gional (ID, OR, WA, & AK) Director, from Meridian, ID, shares pickleball (PB) information with participants l965, Washington Conattending a PB Clinic in Meridian, ID. gressman Joel Pritchard and businessman Bill Bell used an old badminton court, makeshift wooden paddles, and a perforated plastic ball they found. Eventually, like badminton, a net was erected and some rules of the game were initiated. The Pritchard’s’ cocker spaniel “Pickles” would take the ball and run off with It, because it was his ball. And now you know how the sport got its silly name! In the South and Southwest areas of the country, investing in PB courts has become big business. Just recently, a 24 court PB Complex opened in Casa Grande, AZ. The fun, healthy, all ages sport has created a fantasy train known as the “Pickleball Express.” Even Special Olympians and handicapped people are able to ride the Express. The Express is worldwide and stops at “Places to Play” around the country. These places can be found through the USAPA website www.usapa. org. Surf this web for some inspirational photos and information, which will incite your interests in the sport. There are also PB Ambassadors, living in different communities throughout ID, whose names and locations are listed on the website. Meet new friends, while creating a new and healthy activity in your life. Jump on the pickleball express today! ISI

Army-Navy Golf Course near Washington, D.C., many years ago. He kept the crowds laughing at every hole. Actor (and continually frustrated golfer) Jack Lemmon once warned, “If you think it’s hard to pick up new friends, try picking up the wrong golf ball.” “The difference between golf and government is that in golf you can’t improve your lie,” someone wisely said. Golfer Jimmy deMaret stated, “Golf and sex are the only things you can enjoy without being good at them.” One frustrated golfer declared, “My body is here, but my mind has already teed off. Another described his day, “Gone golfing... be back around dark-thirty.” Still another said, “I’ve had a fantastic round of golf; I’ve even got one ball left over.” Even Winston Churchill defined golf as “A game whose aim is to hit a very small ball into an even smaller hole with weapons singularly illdesigned for the purpose.” Another critic charged, “Golf is a game invented by the same people who think music comes out of bagpipes.” Finally, from Dean Martin, “If you drink, don’t drive. Don’t even putt.” As golfing great Ben Hogan more broadly noted, “As you walk down the fairway of life, you must smell the roses... for you only get to play one round.” ISI

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