of Kootenai County, Idaho Issue #46 Nov. 13th 2017Issue 50 Dec. 9th 2019 of Kootenai County, Idaho
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TIDBITS® STUDIES UP ON SOME COLORFUL PEOPLE
by Kathy Wolfe These colorful people, brought to you by Tidbits, all claim a color as part of their name. • Fans of Major League Baseball may remember the left-handed pitcher Vida Blue, who pitched for the Oakland A’s, San Francisco Giants, and Kansas City Royals over the course of his 17year career from 1969 to 1986. Blue was the Cy Young Award winner, a league MVP, three-time World Series champ, and a six-time All-Star. Blue is on the list of only five pitchers in major league history who was a starter in the All-Star game for both the American League and the National League. • In November of 1986, basketball great A.C. Green began a streak of consecutive games played, ending the streak in April of 2001 after an astonishing 1,192 straight games, a record still firmly in place. Green earned the nickname “Iron Man” during his career of playing for the Lakers, Suns, Mavericks, and the Heat. He wrapped up his NBA career in 2001 after 1,278 total games, having missed only three games in 16 seasons. Since retirement, this humanitarian has devoted himself to working with youth, developing leadership camps, and providing mentoring services.
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TIDBITS of Kootenai County, Idaho Issue #50 Dec. 9th COLORFUL PEOPLE (continued): • Alice Roosevelt Longworth was the eldest child of President Theodore Roosevelt, who, at age 17, when her father entered the White House, immediately became a fashion icon. At her social debut in 1902, her gown was of a pale azure blue (azure defined as “the color of the sky on a clear day”). She wore the color frequently, creating a fashion trend. Even her wedding dress was blue when she married Nicholas Longworth III, a congressman who later became Speaker of the House. Her gowns were the inspiration for a 1919 song “Alice Blue Gown,” composed for a Broadway musical. Alice Blue is an official color, and is used by the U.S. Navy in its insignia and trim on Navy vessels named for Theodore Roosevelt. • Golda Meir, Israel’s fourth Prime Minister, was primarily raised in the United States after emigrating to Milwaukee, Wisconsin from her native Ukraine. Even as a high school student, Golda was active in Zionist groups that advocated the establishment of Palestine as the Jewish homeland. After graduating as a teacher, at age 23, she immigrated to Palestine with her new husband, where the couple lived in a communal kibbutz. Her early political career included serving as a delegate to the World Zionist Organization, working toward Palestine becoming an independent nation. When Israel declared its independence in 1948, Golda was one of the signers of the declaration. In 1969, at age 71, she became prime minister, serving until 1974.
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* A potato peeler plus a bar of chocolate makes for a very fancy garnish for cake tops or even for hot drinks. * Holidays got you stressed? Take a breathing break. Deep belly breaths, sometimes called “focus breaths,” can lower blood pressure, calm stress-induced heart rate and induce a relaxation response. Simply sit or lie down somewhere safe and close your eyes. Breathe in deeply, and let your belly rise with the inhalation. Breathe out slowly and evenly. * “If a gingerbread house is just too complicated for the kiddos, try this: They can make a holiday forest of trees! Give the kids several ice-cream cones to frost and set them upside down on a tray. Decorate with small candies, etc. You can chip out a ‘door’ and make one of them an elf house if you feel like it.” -- W.L. in North Carolina * Candy canes can be pulverized in a food processor to dust cookies and cakes. Add a bit of confectioner’s sugar to stretch it if needed. * “Our family of carol singers is happy when they return home from a singing sleigh ride: We serve everyone a big mug of hot chocolate. Our secret for keeping it hot for a crowd? We use our slow cooker and ladle it straight out of the pot!” -- R.E. in Minnesota * Potatoes can be boiled whole, then plunged into icy water briefly when cooked. The skins should slip right off. No need to spend all that time peeling potatoes! Send your tips to Now Here’s a Tip, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803. (c) 2019 King Features Synd., Inc.
TIDBITS of Kootenai County, Idaho Issue #50 Dec. 9th 2019 COLORFUL PEOPLE (continued): • The singer/songwriter known professionally as Pink has sold more than 90 million records worldwide, one of the world’s best-selling artists. Known for her raspy voice, this daughter of a nurse and an insurance salesman was born Alecia Beth Moore and began performing in Philadelphia clubs at age 14, taking on the stage name Pink. Her nickname was taken from the name of the character “Mr. Pink” in the 1992 move “Reservoir Dogs.” She suffered from asthma through her early years. By the time she was 16, she and two other teenagers had a record contract, which had to be signed by their parents because they were all minors. It was Pink’s childhood dream to sing the U.S. national anthem at the Super Bowl, having seen Whitney Houston perform at Super Bowl XXV in 1991. Her goal became reality on February 4, 2018, however, not without its hurdles. Being sick with the flu didn’t keep her from performing at Minneapolis’ U.S. Bank Stadium. Pink’s bold hairstyles have included fluorescent spikes, pink dreadlocks, and basic black. Her many accomplishments include three Grammy Awards, seven MTV Video Music Awards, and a Daytime Emmy Award, and her earnings last year topped $52 million. Not only is Pink’s name colorful, so is her daughter’s, whose middle name is Sage. • The bright red-purple color of fuchsia takes its name from the flower of the same name, which in turn takes its name from a 16th-century German botanist named Leonhart Fuchs. Fuchs was the author of a noteworthy book about plants and their use as herbal medicines. The book, published in Latin in 1542, contained 500 detailed illustrations of various plants, taken from sketches and printed from carved woodcuts. The first fuchsia flower wasn’t discovered until 1696 by a French botanist on a Caribbean island. Charles Plumier named the flower in Fuch’s honor.
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® of Idaho TIDBITS of Kootenai Issue #50 Dec. 9th 2019 TidbitsCounty, Dallas County COLORFUL PEOPLE (continued): • Violet Jessop dodged death on three famous occasions. In 1911, Violet was aboard the world’s largest ocean liner, the RMS Olympic, the first of the White Star Line’s luxury fleet. After five voyages, the ship collided with a British naval ship, when the HMS Hawke suddenly swerved into the Olympic’s side, presumably sucked in by the liner’s huge propellers. The Olympic survived and repairs were completed on the liner by procuring parts from the construction of White Star Line’s second luxury ship, the RMS Titanic, which delayed the sister ship’s maiden (and only) voyage until 1912. On April 10 of that year, 24-year-old Violet Jessop boarded the Titanic, having secured a position as a stewardess on the vessel. Four days later, she was spared from the disastrous sinking of the ship when it struck an iceberg. Ironically, Captain E.J. Smith had commanded both of her voyages, perishing aboard the Titanic. During World War I, Violet was aboard the Britannic, the third sister of the White Star fleet. It had been converted into a hospital ship, and Violet was serving as a stewardess for the British Red Cross. In 1916, the ship struck a German mine and sank in the Aegean Sea 55 minutes later, killing 30 of its 1,066 passengers. Violet Jessop’s life was spared once again, having survived three disasters of the White Star Lines. • Beloved “Golden Girl” actress Betty White was the first woman to produce a sitcom, “Life with Elizabeth,” which premiered in 1953. She was also the first woman to receive an Emmy for hosting a game show. She met her husband on the game show “Password,” enjoying 18 years of marriage before Allen Ludden died of stomach cancer in 1981. Betty has never remarried, and is quoted as saying “Once you’ve had the best, who needs the rest?” She is also famous for being the oldest person to host “Saturday Night Live,” something she did in 2010 at age 88.
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* It was noted 20th-century American humorist and journalist Don Marquis who made the following sage observation: “Procrastination is the art of keeping up with yesterday.” * Kangaroos can reach speeds of up to 44 mph, but they can’t take a single step backward. * As the holiday shopping season gets well under way, here’s an interesting tidbit to keep in mind: According to the annual Coinstar Holiday Survey, 31% of Americans don’t remember what gifts they received last year. Perhaps unsurprisingly, more women remember those details than men do. * No less a notable than William Shakespeare described Limburger cheese as “the rankest compound of villainous smell that ever offended nostril.” * In the Shetland Islands you can find a breed of small, hardy cows that eat fish. * Did you ever wonder why the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks Ð better known as the Elks Lodge -- chose that particular animal as its symbol? Other animals were considered and rejected for a variety of reasons: Foxes were thought to be too cunning, beavers too destructive and bears and too coarse and brutal. * Before World War II, suspenders were more popular than belts, but the trend reversed after the war. * You might be surprised to learn that in 1766, students at Harvard University protested against their living conditions; evidently, the butter they were served in the refectory left something to be desired. In what became known as the Great Butter Rebellion, students shouted, “Our butter stinketh!” * Those who study such things say that if your dog has fleas, they don’t actually live on your pet; they spend 90% of their time elsewhere. Thought for the Day: “Bankruptcy is a legal proceeding in which you put your money in your pants pocket and give your coat to the creditors.” -- Joey Adams
TIDBITS of Kootenai County, Idaho Issue 505-0674 #50 Dec. 9th 2019 For Advertising Call (334)
COUCH THEATER -- DVD PREVIEWS
Photo Credit: Ascot Elite Entertainment “Angel Has Fallen” (PG-13) -- Following a drone attack on President Trumbull (Morgan Freeman), Agent Mike Banning (Gerard Butler) -- code name “Angel” -- is the lone remaining survivor, save the president. And while POTUS lingers unconscious in a hospital bed, Banning makes a perfect patsy for the attack. Malicious forces are afoot, but Banning is never down for long. He escapes to enlist some off-the-grid help to take back his good name and, of course, protect the president. It’s nothing you haven’t seen before and all that you expect out of the third installment of this action flick series. I will, however, give double high fives for Nick Nolte’s crazy supporting performance. “Where’d You Go, Bernadette?” (PG-13) -The eponymous Bernadette (Cate Blanchett) is a functional agoraphobic who once was a celebrated architect, full of life and big ideas. Now she spends her time feuding with a pretentious neighbor (Kristen Wiig), abhorring the unimaginative busybodies at daughter Bee’s (Emma Nelson) school and planning a family trip to Antarctica with a dubious online personal assistant. But then Bernadette disappears, launching her own voyage of discovery to reclaiming her former creative urges. It’s left to Bee to find out where she went and why. Directed by Richard Linklater. “Don’t Let Go” (R) -- David Oyelowo stars as L.A. cop Jack Radcliffe, who discovers the slaughtered bodies of his niece Ashley (Storm Reid) and her parents. But then four days later, he gets a phone call. From Ashley. From the past. Using this crack in the time-space continuum (paging Dr. Emmett Brown, anyone?)
, the pair must work together to keep the girl’s murder from occurring in the first place. Although Oyelowo gives a wonderful performance, it’s just too much to keep up with, and I personally let go about halfway through the film. “Official Secrets” (R) -- In a riveting political drama ripped from the history books, Keira Knightley leads the cast as Katharine Gun, a British intelligence officer who comes by a piece of information so shocking, she is unable to keep it secret: The U.S. is attempting to gather information on Security Council members that would sway their vote to authorize a war against Iraq. Director Gavin Hood serves up a story that is tightly wound, with a courageous hero who unceremoniously does the right thing at considerable cost to herself and her family. Matthew Goode, Matt Smith and Ralph Fiennes also star. (c) 2019 King Features Synd., Inc.
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TIDBITS ofTidbits Kootenai® County, Idaho Issue #50 Dec. 9th 2019 of Dallas County
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By Dr. Holly Carling
STORMY HEALTH
As we prepare for the upcoming winter storms, or have experienced nature’s fury in the past, we realize how little control we have over it. Our health, however, is another story. We are very appreciative of the technology that we have that forewarns us of some storms – cyclones, tornados, hurricanes or fires heading our way so we can avoid them. For the most part, the storms of health give us ample warning, and this gives us time to thwart them as well. So often I have heard patients recount their “sudden” illness, prefaced by having had “no warning”. “I was perfectly healthy and active, and then out of nowhere had a heart attack”. But as I query them, they did have warning, they just didn’t realize it. For instance, early signs of a potential upcoming heart attack (within days, weeks or even months) includes unusual fatigue with or without shortness of breath on exertion, irregular sleep, indigestion, unusual anxiety, arms that feel weak or heavy, cognitive decline, and/or diminished appetite. The difficult thing about these symptoms is that they can mean so many other things as well. That’s why a good doctor doesn’t ignore this combination of symptoms, but investigates deeper so that a heart attack can potentially be avoided altogether. Digestive issues have forewarning as well. Occasional indigestion is easily shrugged off. Maybe you pop a Tums or Rolaids and all is good. Much of the time it will progress to a worsening of heartburn, then reflux.
Maybe the frequency of bowel movements changes. The intestines get more inflamed, then painful, and next thing you know you’re hearing the words “colitis” or “gluten intolerant” or “diverticulitis”, and getting a gist of the seriousness and long term challenges these diseases carry in their wake. And this is just the tip of the iceberg. So how do we head these diseases off at the pass and avoid having to confront a health storm? First of all, don’t ignore symptoms. All symptoms have a meaning. ALL of them. They are red flags that tell us bad weather is approaching and you’d better pay attention. This can be difficult because so often, if conversation frequently comes around to symptoms, you are called a hypochondriac. So often I’ve heard of people say they did not tell their doctor or loved one about a symptom for fear of this label. That is a mistake. Also, too often it is ignored or brushed off by medical professionals because their tests show “everything is normal”. So often I hear people say they kept telling their doctor something was wrong, but were sent away without any answers until a real health storm arose. You pay attention. If you have a symptom, address it early before it becomes a storm. If your doctor won’t listen to you or can’t find what’s wrong, find a health practitioner, a health detective, that will. Health storms can be avoided. We do have early warning signals, but it’s up to us to circumnavigate them.
Dr. Holly Carling is a Doctor of Oriental Medicine, Licensed Acupuncturist, Doctor of Naturopathy, Clinical Nutritionist and Master Herbologist with over three decades of experience. Dr. Carling is currently accepting new patients and offers natural health care services and whole food nutritional supplements in her Coeur d’ Alene clinic. Visit Dr. Carling’s website at www.vitalhealthcda.com to learn more about Dr. Carling, view a list of upcoming health classes and read other informative articles. Dr. Carling can be reached at 208-765-1994 and would be happy to answer any questions regarding this topic.
TIDBITS of Kootenai County, Issue505-0674 #50 Dec. 9th 2019 For Advertising CallIdaho (334)
Gifts for Pets Should be Useful The VBA Is Giving Out Social and Safe DEAR PAW’S CORNER: I’m invited to a YanSecurity Numbers The Department of Veterans Affairs Office of the Inspector General was asked to investigate whether the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) had disclosed third-party information -such as Social Security numbers, names, dates and places of birth -- when it responded to Privacy Act requests. The answer, unfortunately, was a big yes. Veterans who request copies of their own claim files can have them under the Privacy Act. But that means that all information in the file also is given to them. Sometimes that means a third party, such as the doctor who treated them, or other service members ... including the name and Social Security number of those people. Before 2016, the VBA was required to redact -draw a thick black line through -- any info that concerned a third party before sending the file out to the requester. But, they whined, it took time to do that and caused backlogs in getting the files out. Info from the files was copied onto CD and mailed to the requester, putting everything out where it could be stolen or go missing or be viewed later by anyone. The VBA attorney decided it was just fine to release all that private third-party information if the VBA did it “on purpose” as part of releasing the requester’s own information. Between May 2016 and May 2019, 379,000 files went out this way. Here’s an example from the OIG report: In 18 sample files it inspected, there were 1,027 thirdparty names and Social Security numbers. Doing the math, how many extra names were likely in those 379,000 files? I come up with 21 million. Two factoids: 1) Last year there were 14 million cases of identity fraud. 2) The big coup for thieves is getting a Social Security number. It unlocks all doors. To read the OIG report, go to www.va.gov/oig/ pubs/VAOIG-19-05960-244.pdf. (c) 2019 King Features Synd., Inc.
kee swap party with friends I met at the dog park over the past year. The theme is not presents for humans, but for our dogs. I don’t want to get a gift that everyone else is buying, so what are the most popular pet items right now? That way I can hopefully avoid a duplicate gift. -- Cheri in Somerville, Massachusetts DEAR CHERI: If the item really is popular, I bet people won’t mind duplicate gifts -- dog booties come to mind as items that wear out quickly in the winter and are expensive to replace. For those not in the know, a Yankee swap (known as a Santa swap in other parts of the country) is a group gift-giving event where participants each bring a gift, then draw numbers to take turns picking a gift from somebody else -- or opt to swap their gift for another gift. Things can get a bit wild, I know, but that’s how we party in the Northeast. The gifts are usually inexpensive -less than $50. Concentrate on buying a practical gift that will make a dog more comfortable or happy. A box of treats, a raincoat or sweater, spare booties, a collar and leash, a chew toy or feeding bowl, or a stylish item like a bandanna or a bow tie. If your dog likes or needs something, then your friends’ dogs are almost certain to like or need the same thing. And, since people rarely end up with exactly what they want at a Yankee swap, save a few dollars to buy something you think your dog will really like after the party. Send your comments, questions or tips to ask@ pawscorner.com. (c) 2019 King Features Synd., Inc.
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® ofIdaho TIDBITS of Kootenai County, IssueCounty #50 Dec. 9th 2019 Tidbits Dallas
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* On Dec. 16, 1773, in Boston Harbor, a group of Massachusetts colonists disguised as Mohawk Indians board three British tea ships and dump 342 chests of tea into the harbor. The raid was in protest of the British Parliament’s Tea Act of 1773, which granted the East India Company a virtual monopoly on the American tea trade. * On Dec. 19, 1843, Charles Dickens’ classic story “A Christmas Carol” is published. Dickens was sent to work in a factory at age 12 when his father was thrown into debtors’ prison. * On Dec. 22, 1864, Union Gen. William Sherman presents the city of Savannah, Georgia, to President Abraham Lincoln. Sherman captured the key Confederate port after his famous March to the Sea from Atlanta. * On Dec. 18, 1878, John Kehoe, the last of the Molly Maguires, is executed in Pennsylvania. The Irish secret society, which had allegedly been responsible for incidences of vigilante justice in the coalfields of eastern Pennsylvania, defended their actions as attempts to protect exploited Irish-American workers. * On Dec. 21, 1945, Gen. George Patton, commander of the U.S. 3rd Army during World War II, dies from injuries suffered not in battle, but from a freak car accident less than two weeks earlier. He was 60. * On Dec. 20, 1963, more than two years after the Berlin Wall was constructed by East Germany to prevent its citizens from fleeing its communist regime, nearly 4,000 West Berliners are given one-day passes to cross into East Berlin to visit relatives. * On Dec. 17, 1979, Hollywood stuntman Stan Barrett blasts across a dry lakebed at California’s Edwards Air Force Base in a rocket- and missile-powered car, becoming the first person to travel faster than the speed of sound on land. He reached an estimated top speed of 739 mph. (c) 2019 Hearst Communications, Inc. All Rights Reserved
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® of Idaho TIDBITS of Kootenai IssueCounty #50 Dec. 9th 2019 TidbitsCounty, Dallas
1. What was the name of the group formed by Agnetha Faltskog, Bjorn Ulvaeus, Benny Andersson and Anni-Frid Lyngstad? 2. Who was Murray the K? 3. How many Grammys has “The Boss” won? 4. Why is the date Feb. 3, 1959 significant? 5. Name the song that contains this lyric: “There is someone who really needs you, here’s my heart in my hand.” Answers 1. The Swedish group ABBA, using the first letter of their four first names. They first gained international notice after winning the 1974 Eurovision Song Contest in the U.K. The 1999 musical “Mamma Mia!” was created around their songs. 2. Radio DJ Murray Kaufman. He considered himself the fifth Beatle, saying George Harrison gave him that title. 3. So far Bruce Springsteen has won 20 Grammys, plus an Academy Award and two Golden Globes. 4. That’s “the day the music died,” when Ritchie Valens, Buddy Holly and Jiles Perry “JP” Richardson (The Big Bopper) died in a plane crash. Don McLean repeatedly refers to it in his 1971 song “American Pie.” 5. “Turn Around, Look at Me,” by Glen Campbell, in 1961. This was followed by a 1962 Lettermen cover. But it was the Vogues in 1968 who had the most popular version. (c) 2019 King Features Synd., Inc.
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Connecting Kids to Coverage Thousands of children in Idaho may be eligible for health insurance. Thousands of Idaho children could be going without critical prescriptions or life-saving surgeries simply because their parents don’t have health insurance. Many of those children were removed from federal health insurance coverage over the last few years due to eligibility reporting requirements for the state of Idaho. Those issues between the state and the United States government have been resolved. Low to moderate-income families without health insurance may be eligible for federal programs once again. “Insurance coverage for kids is critical,” said Yvonne Ketchum-Ward, CEO, Idaho Primary Care Association. “Without it, children in Idaho will suffer unnecessarily and be unable to get the care they need to become healthy adults.” The Idaho Primary Care Association received a $1 million grant to help enroll thousands of children in health insurance plans. The money will be distributed to 15 community health centers across the state to bolster their enrollment efforts over the next three years. Enrolling those families and children is part of a new Connecting Kids to Coverage project. The federal grant is intended to help an estimated 29,000 children in Idaho gain coverage and keep eligible families in coverage. The state currently ranks 40th in the nation for the percentage of children without health insurance. Federal policy changes caused Idaho to have the steepest decline (11%) in the nation for children enrolled in the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and Medicaid, according to a recent study released by Georgetown University Center for Children and Families and Idaho Voices for Children. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) hope to increase enrollment in CHIP/Medicaid. Started in 1997, CHIP provides comprehensive healthcare coverage to children under age 19 from low to moderate-income families. “The Children’s Health Insurance Program is a critical source of healthcare coverage for working families,” said Heritage Health CEO Mike Baker. “Kids who have access to doctor visits, dental care, immunizations, well-child visits, and prescriptions are more likely to have good health and do better in school, forming a strong foundation for future success. If your children are without insurance, please call us to see if we can help get them enrolled in health coverage.” “Heritage Health is one of the participating community health centers involved in Connecting Kids to Coverage.” The Connecting Kids to Coverage project will engage more than 70 outreach and enrollment counselors at health centers to assist families with application assistance for healthcare coverage. Health Centers won’t be doing it alone. The Idaho Foodbank, Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, and Your Health Idaho will provide support for the project to engage and assist parents in urban and rural areas. “CHIP has consistently had bipartisan support from lawmakers,” said Baker. “Since 1997, the program has provided affordable health insurance for kids in modest-income families. It’s an effective federal-state partnership that provides essential health coverage for kids that is a critical part of the state’s healthcare system and an investment in families and our state’s future.”
For ofAdvertising Call (334) 505-0674 TIDBITS Kootenai County, Idaho Issue #50 Dec. 9th 2019 What is PEMF Therapy?
PEMF stands for Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields. These magnetic fields alleviate pain, inflammation, promote circulation, increase energy and a sense of well-being. We have the HU=GO™ High Intensity PEMF is the device. This is a professional device used by elite athletes as well as celebrities. www.hugopemf.com provides more information. At CDA Health Center, we have seen relief of chronic shoulder pain experienced by golfers and hairdressers, back pain experienced by retired police officers and relief after surgery helping improve range of motion and relieve scar tissue pain. HOW DOES HIGH-INTENSITY PEMF HELP? High intensity PEMFs induce a flood of electrons inside the body. Free electrons serve as natural antioxidants. These are negatively charged electrons stop free radical formation. Free radicals are known to cause inflammation and accelerate the aging process. This makes High-Intensity PEMF Therapy inherently anti-aging, a nice side benefit beside promoting energy, healing and pain relief. PEMF’s boosts the immune system, decreases inflammation, improves circulation and provides immediate pain relief that lasts for up to 72 hours, sometimes longer, even after 1 session. A series of 3 or 6 sessions is recommended and can be done further apart as the beneficial healing effects are cumulative.
Dr. Margo Parker, OMD, a licensed acupuncturist with over 30 years in practice and higher education. CDA Health Center located at 1044 Northwest Boulevard in the Sky Professional Center Building. Phone/Text (208) 660-7363 to schedule High Intensity PEMF, Ozone Therapy, or other traditional therapies. We offer HU=GO™ HI-PEMF for mobility and pain relief and Ozone therapies for sinus issues, allergies, skin, scalp conditions and more. www.cdahealthcenter.com
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ÂŽ ofIdaho TIDBITS of Kootenai County, Issue County #50 Dec. 9th 2019 Tidbits Dallas
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Simple Holiday Bark Keep around the house for a holiday treat -- or wrap it up as a gift! 12 ounces (semisweet) chocolate, chopped 8 ounces white chocolate, chopped 1/2 cup (coarsely crushed) candy canes or peppermint candies 1. Line cookie sheet with foil. 2. Microwave semisweet chocolate in bowl on medium power 1 minute; stir. Keep microwaving at 15-second intervals, stirring, until melted and smooth; set aside. Repeat process with white chocolate. 3. Spread semisweet chocolate on prepared cookie sheet about 1/3-inch thick. Drop tablespoons white chocolate on top. Swirl chocolates together with tip of knife to marble. Sprinkle with crushed candy. 4. Refrigerate 1 hour, or until firm. Peel off foil; break bark into pieces. It will keep for about a month in an airtight container in refrigerator. Serves 11. * Each serving: About 142 calories, 8g total fat (5g saturated), 2mg cholesterol, 12mg sodium, 18g total carbohydrate, 1g dietary fiber, 2g protein. For thousands of triple-tested recipes, visit our Web site at www.goodhousekeeping.com/foodrecipes/. (c) 2019 Hearst Communications, Inc. All rights reserved
TIDBITS Kootenai County, Idaho Issue #50 Dec. 9th 2019 ForofAdvertising Call (334) 505-0674
ARIES (March 21 to April 19) That change in holiday travel plans might be more vexing than you’d expected. But try to take it in stride. Also, it couldn’t hurt to use that Aries charm to coax out some helpful cooperation. TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Your Bovine determination helps you deal with an unforeseen complication. And, as usual, you prove that when it comes to a challenge, you have what it takes to take it on. GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Although a romantic theme dominates much of the week, all those warm and fuzzy feelings don’t interfere with the more pragmatic matters you need to take care of. CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Best not to ignore those doubts about an upcoming decision. Instead, recheck the facts you were given to make sure nothing important was left out. A weekend surprise awaits you. LEO (July 23 to August 22) No time for a catnap -- yet. You might still have to straighten out one or two factors so that you can finally assure yourself of the truth about a troubling workplace situation. Stay with it. VIRGO (August 23 September 22) News from an old friend could lead to an unexpected (but nonetheless welcome) reunion with someone who had once been very special in your life. Be open to the possibilities. LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) It might be time for a family council. The sooner those problems are resolved, the sooner you can move ahead with your holiday preparations. Don’t let the opportunity pass you by. SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Take some time out to give more attention to a personal relationship that seems to be suffering from a sense of emotional neglect. Provide that much-needed reassurance. SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Cheer up. That unusual circumstance that might faze most people can be handled pretty well by the savvy Sagittarian. Look at it as an opportunity rather than an obstacle. CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Someone you believe has hurt you in the past might now need your help. Reaching out could be difficult. But the generous Goat will be able to do the right thing, as always. AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Prioritizing is an important part of your pre-holiday scheduling. Try to give time both to your workday responsibilities and those personal matters you might have neglected. PISCES (February 19 to March 20) With the vestiges of your anger about that painful incident fading, you can now focus all your energy on the more positive aspects of your life, including that personal situation.
BORN THIS WEEK:
You have a way of bringing your own strong sense of reassurance to others and encouraging them to hope. (c) 2019 King Features Synd., Inc.
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® of Idaho TIDBITS of Kootenai County, IssueCounty #36 Sept 2nd 2019 Tidbits Dallas
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TIDBITS of Kootenai County, Idaho Issue #36 Sept 2nd 2019
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TIDBITS of Kootenai County, Idaho Issue #50 Dec. 9th 2019
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REMARKABLE PEOPLE: LEONARDO DA VINCI
SPORTS QUIZ By Chris Richcreek --1. Who was the last pitcher before Cincinnati’s Michael Lorenzen in 2018 to homer in three consecutive at-bats? 2. In 2018, Kyle Higashioka of the New York Yankees became the ninth major-league player since 1920 to have his first three hits be home runs. Who was the only other Yankee to do it? 3. Who is the only kicker to be named the NFL’s regular-season MVP? 4. Name the first Division I men’s basketball player to lead the nation in points and assists per game in the same season. 5. Entering the 2019-20 season, where did former NHL goaltender Robert Luongo rank on the all-time victory list? 6. In 2019, Dalilah Muhammad set the women’s world mark for the 400-meter hurdles (52.20 seconds, then 52.16 seconds later in the year). How long had the previous record lasted? 7. When was the last time a Canadian male golfer won the Canadian Open?
1. GEOGRAPHY: What is the capital of Poland? 2. HISTORY: What was the poison drink that Socrates was given to carry out his death sentence? 3. SCIENCE: What was Margaret Mead’s field of study? 4. PSYCHOLOGY: What fear is represented in the condition known as autophobia? 5. U.S. PRESIDENTS: What was the title of the last film that Ronald Reagan made? 6. FAMOUS QUOTES: Which author wrote, “You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose”? 7. TELEVISION: In the sitcom “I Dream of Jeannie,” what was Tony Nelson’s job? 8. MOVIES: Which rock star played the lead in “The Man Who Fell to Earth”? 9. GAMES: What is the maximum score in a standard bowling game? 10. SCIENCE: Which steam engine inventor’s last name is used as a unit of power? Answers 1. Warsaw 2. Hemlock 3. Anthropology 4. Fear of being alone 5. “The Killers” (1964) 6. Dr. Seuss 7. Astronaut 8. David Bowie 9. 300 10. James Watt (watt) (c) 2019 King Features Synd., Inc.
Answers 1. Colorado’s Mike Hampton, in 2001. 2. Alfonso Soriano (1999-2000). 3. Washington’s Mark Moseley, in 1982. 4. Oklahoma’s Trae Young, in the 201718 season. 5. Third, with 489 victories. 6. Nearly 16 years -- Russia’s Yuliya Pechonkina set the mark of 52.34 seconds in 2003. 7. It was 1954 (Pat Fletcher). (c) 2019 King Features Syndicate, Inc.
On December 12, 1980, a notebook of writings by Leonardo da Vinci was sold at auction for $5,126,000. Tidbits toasts that anniversary by presenting the facts about this esteemed artist, sculptor, architect, and inventor. • Born near a small Italian village in 1452, da Vinci had very little formal education. At 14, he began an apprenticeship with a well-known artist in Florence, where he honed skills in metalworking, leather, carpentry, sculpting, and painting. • In his 30s, da Vinci began an intense study of human anatomy, even dissecting human and animal bodies to aid in his research. His detailed drawings of fetuses, the heart, vascular systems, reproductive organs, skeletons, and muscular systems are some of the earliest on record. In 1490, he sketched “Vitruvian Man,” a male figure in two superimposed positions, arms and legs apart, inside a circle and a square. • Da Vinci was commissioned to paint “The Last Supper” in 1495 on the wall of the dining hall of a Milan monastery. The painting, which depicts Jesus and his 12 disciples in the Upper Room, has undergone at least 8 restorations, one lasting 21 years, due to its deterioration. It was painted on a thin wall, and the paint did not adhere to the wall properly. Within three years, the paint was flaking and deteriorating. • In 1503, da Vinci started on a privately-commissioned painting which would become known as the “Mona Lisa.” Although the identity of the woman in the masterpiece has never been absolutely confirmed, it’s believed that she was Lisa del Giocondo, the wife of a wealthy Italian silk merchant. However, if so, Giocondo family never received the painting, as da Vinci kept it in his possession the remainder of his life.
TIDBITS of Kootenai County, Idaho Issue #50 Dec. 9th 2019 DA VINCI (continued): • Considered the world’s most famous painting, the “Mona Lisa” holds the record for the highest known insurance value, equivalent to about $650 million in today’s dollars. The painting measures just 30 x 21 inches (76 x 53 cm). • Although da Vinci may be best known for his paintings, there are less than two dozen of his paintings known to exist. He wasn’t a prolific painter because he had so many other interests. Serving as a military engineer in the early 1500s, da Vinci surveyed construction projects, sketched city plans, and drew maps. He was ahead of his time when he sketched a “flying machine” based on a bat’s anatomy. He drew military tanks and weapons, submarines and bicycles. • Da Vinci sketched his illustrations on loose sheets of paper and in notebooks that he tucked inside his belt. It was one of these notebooks that found its way to the 1980 auction. This particular notebook of 72 pages contained more than 300 notes and detailed drawings. It was discovered in 1690, 171 years after da Vinci’s death. In 1717, the first Earl of Leicester, Thomas Coke, purchased the manuscript and displayed it at his family’s English estate. In 1980, the current Earl was forced to sell it to pay inheritance taxes on his estate. • In 1994, the notebook was sold once again, this time for $30.8 million, the most expensive book ever sold. The record high price was paid by none other than Microsoft founder Bill Gates. Once a year, Gates loans the manuscript to various museums for public display. • Another auction yielded a record-setting amount when a da Vinci painting entitled “Salvator Mundi” (Latin for “Savior of the World”) sold for $450.3 million in 2017.
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Q: My wife and I were amazed when Chris Lasalle, one of the main characters on “NCIS: New PHOTO: Lucas Black Photo credit: Cliff Lipson/CBS Orleans,” left the show. What was the decision Q: Please tell me whether the TV show “The Fix” is coming back. I haven’t heard anything behind this? -- E.S. about it, and I really enjoyed it. -- L.J. A: From what I’ve been able to gather, it looks like it was solely the decision of Lucas Black, A: Unfortunately, “The Fix” was one of those the actor who played Special Agent Lasalle, to network crime dramas that didn’t generate leave the popular show. The writers chose to end high enough ratings to be renewed. It was canhis character’s story in a very dramatic way, but celed after just one season on ABC. “The Fix” Black himself stepped down to spend more time was created by former L.A. prosecutor Marcia with his family. It’s also rumored that he’ll be Clark, best known from the O.J. Simpson trial, appearing in the upcoming “Fast & Furious 9” and starred Robin Tunney, Adewale Akinnuoyefilm, so perhaps he’s realized that filming one or Agbaje and Scott Cohen. While her career as a two movies a year will allow him more time at producer and TV writer hasn’t been very successful, Clark has penned several legal thriller home than his TV schedule does. Most surprising to me is that this is the same novels that have sold very well. actor who played the young boy in the classic *** film “Sling Blade” opposite Billy Bob Thorn- Q: What happened to Derek Hough? I heard he ton in 1996. His talent was apparent way back had emergency surgery, but never did find out then, and now at 36 years old the future certainly what happened. -- L.M. A: Hough, best known for his time as a pro on looks bright. ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars,” recently un*** Q: Is Celine Dion ever going to do her show in derwent an appendectomy. He stated on InstaVegas every night like she used to? I was go- gram that he woke up at 3 a.m. with a sharp, ing to book a trip there to see her, but then she severe sharp pain in his abdomen and “knew” something wasn’t right. stopped. -- W.B. Hough joins a list of celebrities who have had A: Dion is about to release her 27th studio al- their appendix removed unexpectedly, includbum, “Courage,” and will be touring the United ing singers John Mayer, Elton John and Kelly States for the first time in 10 years. Hopefully Clarkson, who hosted the “Billboard Music she’ll appear in a city close to you, since her Awards” while experiencing symptoms. Ouch! Las Vegas residency has ended after performing Send me your questions at NewCelebrityExmore than 400 times. tra@gmail.com, or write me at KFWS, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803. (c) 2019 King Features Synd., Inc.
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Top 10 Video On Demand 1. Good Boys (R) Jacob Tremblay 2. Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw (PG-13) Dwayne Johnson 3. The Peanut Butter Falcon (PG-13) Shia LaBeouf 4. The Angry Birds 2 (PG) animated 5. 47 Meters Down: Uncaged (PG-13) Sophie Nelisse 6. The Kitchen (R) Melissa McCarthy 7. The Lion King (PG) animated 8. The Art of Racing in the Rain (PG) Milo Ventimiglia 9. Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark (PG-13) Zoe Margaret Colletti 10. Toy Story 4 (PG) animated Top 10 DVD, Blu-ray Sales 1. Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw (PG-13) Universal 2. The Lion King (PG) Disney 3. The Big Bang Theory: The Twelfth and Final Season (TV-14) Warner Bros. 4. Good Boys (R) Universal 5. The Angry Birds 2 (PG) Sony Pictures 6. Toy Story 4 (PG) Disney 7. Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark (PG-13) Lionsgate 8. Star Trek: Discovery -- Season Two (TV-14) Paramount/CBS 9. Aladdin (PG) Disney 10. Spider-Man: Far From Home (PG-13) Sony Pictures/Marvel
TOP TEN MOVIES 1. Frozen II (PG) animated 2. Ford v Ferrari (PG-13) Matt Damon, Christian Bale 3. A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood (PG) Tom Hanks, Matthew Rhys 4. 21 Bridges (R) Chadwick Boseman, Sienna Miller 5. Midway (PG-13) Ed Skrein, Patrick Wilson 6. Playing With Fire (PG) John Cena, KeeganMichael Key 7. The Good Liar (R) Helen Mirren, Ian McKellen 8. Charlie’s Angels (PG-13) Kristen Stewart, Naomi Scott 9. Last Christmas (PG-13) Emilia Clarke, Henry Golding 10. Joker (R) Joaquin Phoenix, Robert De Niro (c) 2019 King Features Synd., Inc.
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BROWN AND BLACK Tidbits is narrowing down the color spectrum by concentrating on these folks named Brown and Black! • Thomas Jacob Black, better known to his fans as Jack Black, was the son of rocket scientists! Both of his parents were satellite engineers who worked on the Hubble Space Telescope. His first acting job was a TV commercial for a video game when he was 13. Several television series roles followed until his breakout film role in the 2000 film High Fidelity. It was his role in 2003’s School of Rock that was particularly well-received, earning him a Golden Globe nomination. Black is also the lead vocalist in the Grammy Award-winning rock duo, Tenacious D, formed in 1994. • Margaret Tobin Brown became known as “unsinkable” after surviving the sinking of the Titanic, and heroically helping others to safety during the tragedy. Molly Brown was touring Egypt in 1912 when word came to her that her grandson was ill. She booked passage on the illfated ship to return to Colorado. In addition to her heroism at the ship’s demise, Brown headed up the Titanic Survivors’ Committee, providing aid to immigrants who had lost everything, and published her account of the sinking in newspapers. From her humble beginnings in a threeroom cottage, Brown relocated to Leadville, where she met her husband, who struck it rich in the mines. With their fortune, she established soup kitchens in Colorado mining communities, founded the Denver Woman’s Club, raised money for Denver’s Catholic cathedral, and worked as a volunteer during World War I.
TIDBITS of Kootenai County, Idaho Issue #50 Dec. 9th 2019 BROWN AND BLACK (continued): • Shirley Black began life as Shirley Temple, the beloved child star who started her career at the tender age of three. Within two years, she was internationally famous, and the following year, 1935, she received a special Juvenile Academy Award. By 1938, she was the number one box-office favorite. During the 1930s, Shirley Temple dolls were introduced, and sales reached $45 million by 1941. Shirley’s royalties from merchandise exceeded the salary paid for her movies. In 1936, when she was 8 years old, royalty income exceeded $200,000. When she retired in 1950 at age 22, she had appeared in 44 movies and numerous short films. That year, Shirley married Charles Black, a San Francisco businessman and former Navy intelligence officer, who admitted to her that he had never seen a single one of her movies. Shirley Temple Black entered politics in 1967 with an unsuccessful campaign for Congress, and became a delegate to the United Nations General Assembly, followed by an appointment as Ambassador to Ghana, and later Ambassador to Czechoslovakia. • Many football fans believe Cleveland Browns running back Jim Brown is the greatest pro football player in history. During his nine seasons, he broke most of the rushing yards records, including leading the league in rushing yards for eight out of those nine. Football wasn’t his only skill. In high school, he nabbed 13 letters playing football, lacrosse, baseball, basketball, and track. Brown retired in 1965 at the height of his career and entered the world of acting. In 1966, he was already famous for his role in The Dirty Dozen, a World War II saga of 12 convicts sent to France to assassinate German officers. Brown’s movie career spanned 44 films.
By Healthy Exchanges
Simmered Steaks
You may have doubts when you start stirring orange marmalade into the sauce, but trust us, it all works out perfectly in the end. 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 4 (4-ounce) lean minute or cube steaks 1 cup unsweetened orange juice 1 cup (two 2.5-ounce jars) sliced mushrooms, drained 2 tablespoons reduced-sodium ketchup 2 tablespoons orange marmalade spreadable fruit 1 tablespoon dried onion flakes 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes 1. Place flour in a shallow dish and coat steaks on both sides in flour. Reserve any leftover flour. Evenly arrange coated steaks in a large skillet sprayed with butter-flavored cooking spray and brown for about 3 minutes on each side. 2. In a medium bowl, combine orange juice, mushrooms, ketchup, spreadable fruit, onion flakes, parsley flakes and any remaining flour. Spoon sauce mixture evenly over steaks. Lower heat, cover and simmer for 15 minutes or until steaks are tender. 3. When serving, evenly spoon sauce mixture over top of steaks. Serves 4. Freezes well. * Each serving: About 218 calories, 6g fat, 23g protein, 18g carb., 359mg sodium, 1g fiber; Diabetic Exchanges: 3 Meat, 1 Fruit, 1/2 Vegetable (c) 2019 King Features Syndicate, Inc.
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TIDBITS of Kootenai County, Idaho Issue #50 Dec. 9th 2019
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Seniors’ Perspectives Enhance our Families, our Communities, our Lives! By Matilda Charles
Thieves Stole My Credit Card Number
Sometimes what you think is a scam phone call ... isn’t. Sometimes it’s the real thing. Like the call I got today. When the phone rang I didn’t rush to answer. The foreign sounding man who left a message said that he needed to verify certain recent transactions on one of my credit cards. The only reason I paid attention was that this same thing happened to me 15 years ago. Still, I was leery. Instead of calling back at the number he left, I called the number on the back of my card and asked for the fraud department. Sure enough, my card number had somehow gotten out and people were busily trying to make purchases all over the country -- at that very moment! By that time, the attempts to make fraudulent purchases had exceeded $4,000. The man immediately canceled my card and said that another one would arrive at my door within 48 hours. I asked him how this could happen. My card was in my hand. I don’t keep a list of credit cards on my computer. I shred documents that have personal information. I don’t use the card at small mom-and-pop places (which was my mistake 15 years ago) because their security isn’t always the best. I don’t use the card at ATMs that might have a skimmer. I hadn’t fallen for any scammer tricks over the phone. I hadn’t clicked links in any suspicious emails. So, how did that number get out? He couldn’t tell me. He said it happens far too often, and it’s nothing the card owner has done. I suspect that a few months from now we’ll learn that there has been another massive security breach, similar to the Target breach of 2013 where the information on 40 million cards was stolen.
The primary joy of working in Assisted Living is, without a doubt, the loving positive impact of the residents of all faiths and backgrounds on my heart. Today was no exception. A lovely resident asked me to read a story she wrote of her personal experience. It seems important to share it with you… “Road Rage” (Written by Barbara Powell with Deeann Chisholm) God has a purpose for our lives. Our purpose will always involve bringing His love and mercy to a hurting and dying world. If we watch, we will see opportunities to fulfill our purpose. Road rage is one sign that people are becoming angrier and feeling more out of control of their lives and environments. Wild and reckless driving, obscene gestures and outright physical violence cause terror for other drives and pedestrians. The rage spreads like a virus as one person responds to another person’s violence in an equally violent way. We all have places we need to go and be at certain times. Sometimes we underestimate the amount of time it takes to get somewhere and drive a bit more aggressively than we normally would. We cut off the person who seems to be moving too slowly; we tailgate, run red lights and stop signs, and exceed the speed limit. We are misbehaving, hoping that we can get away with it. As a senior citizen, I am more and more aware that I have to be very careful and watch what I am doing. It is very easy to make mistakes that could cause an accident, as my friend and I recently learned. After a wonderful dinner one night, my friend, Sandy, and I had just gotten on a street when we witnessed an accident. A woman in a sedan assumed that she was at a four way stop. She pulled out and broadsided a pickup truck. The pickup truck had the right of way. There were two young children in the club cab. The man jumped out of his truck and began screamingat the woman. He then pulled his children from the cab and examined them for injuries. After assuring himself that they were uninjured, he placed them back into the truck. He then got into his truck and pulled it around to a parking area. The woman just sat in her car. She was obviously stunned. Again the man approached her car and ordered her to move her car out of traffic into the parking area. His anger was intense but controlled. I said, “Sandy, I think this is our call.: She pulled around the corner into the parking lot. We parked next to the two vehicles. I said, “I’ll take the woman, Sandy, you take the kids.” The woman was standing outside her car, very upset and crying. She said over and over, “I didn’t do it on purpose. I wouldn’t hurt your children. I love children. I am in an unfamiliar area. I thought this was a four way stop. I am so sorry. I am so sorry.” I wrapped both of my arms around the woman. Sandy went to the children and wrapped her arms around them and spoke calming words to them. A five-year old told me once, “we all make mistakes!” With this memory, I repeated the wise words of the five-year old to the distressed woman. “It’s okay. Weall make mistakes.” After the accident had cleared, the man came to where we were standing. He said to the woman, “I’m so sorry that I yelled at you.” He put his arm around her and gave her a hug. That evening God’s will was for us to bring His love and mercy into that stressful situation. We were to be a calming presence for the concerned father, his children, and the frightened young woman. Our response to God’s question, “Who can I send? Who will go?” should always be, “Here I am, Lord. Send me.” For guidance, questions, and tours of The Lodge Assisted Living, call Linda Davis 208-755- 3637.
Linda Davis Director of building relationships. 208.457.3403 www.LodgeLiving.net
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TIDBITS of Kootenai County, Idaho Issue #50 Dec. 9th 2019
Kids and Holiday Decorating
Ask me for a few memories of Christmases past, and I instantly recall my dad on a ladder stapling multicolor strings of lights to the eaves of our house. Mom festooned the interior with swags of evergreen and fresh eucalyptus (we lived in Northern California) with gilded angels and shiny ornaments. Although my brothers and I decorated cookies and set up the manger scene, it was my folks who primarily created the holiday magic around our place. In today’s more relaxed style, why not bring the kids into the center of holiday decorating with you, and make the coming month a do-together season of creativity, entertaining and giving? To get kids started, here’s a whimsical centerpiece that combines a variety of objects to tell a story or suggest a holiday wintry theme to adorn a dining-room table or mantel. Look for a clear glass hurricane or a clear glass wide vase you may have tucked away in your storage closet. Then choose small holiday items and images that express the way you celebrate the season, along with nature finds. Then bring out stored ornaments, mini strings of battery-operated lights or candles. Here’s the stuff you need for each arrangement: -- one tall and wide (about 12 inches by 5 inches) clear glass hurricane shade, a similar size plain, clear glass vase, or a glass chimney tube (available at craft and discount stores) -- a tray, a large round plate or a wide, shallow bowl for the base
-- small keepsake holiday or themed items, toys, artificial greens or nature finds, such as mini pinecones and moss Here’s the fun: Arrange holiday-themed items in the center of the base, then place glass shade, vase or chimney tube over it. Set in the middle of your dining-room table, or wherever you wish to display it. Add greens or other decorative items around the outside of the base. For example: 1. Set a miniature decorative pine tree with tiny decorations dusted with snow in the middle. Around the outside, create a village scene with mini houses and figurines from your kids’ toy bins or your ornament collection. 2. School-age kids might enjoy decorating the glass by painting designs with permanent paint pens or acrylic paint in squeeze bottles. 3. Set a pillar candle inside by itself and let the light sparkle through colorful flat-sided marbles that you glue randomly around the outside of the glass shade. (Use thick, quick-setting glue for best results.) When the candle glows at mealtime, it will remind your child that he or she was the one who placed the marbles just so! Donna Erickson’s award-winning series “Donna’s Day” is airing on public television nationwide. To find more of her creative family recipes and activities, visit www.donnasday.com and link to the NEW Donna’s Day Facebook fan page. Her latest book is “Donna Erickson’s Fabulous Funstuff for Families.” ( c) 2019 Donna Erickson Distributed by King Features Synd.
TIDBITS PUZZLE ANSWERS
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