A SPECIAL SECTION OF THE WEEKENDER NORTH for WASHBURN COUNTY WI Life 715-635-4460 FocusVOLUME 28 ISSUE 4 www.adrcconnections.org APRIL 2021 TO A SENIOR CENTER NEAR YOU... Washburn County Board of Supervisors, Approves Reopening Plan for Senior Centers!
Submitted by webmd.com/anxiety-panic/anxiety-appetite-gone). pant and want the vaccine, we will assist in facilitating DIRECTOR Linda Hand During our session, our Texan counterpart suggested this for you. NEWS Washburn County a slogan to describe what we are attempting. “We will • Our home-delivered meals will continue as usual. Aging Director/ be marketing connection, rather than marketing a • Priority to participate will be given to Washburn ADRC Supervisor m e a l ”. County residents age 60+. So what were the results of the survey that led us • In the beginning, each site will be open one day to make this decision? For those familiar with the per week, for limited activities. On Friday, March 13, television game show Family Feud, “Survey Says!”, the • Th ere will be a limit to the number of participants 2020, the Washburn number #1 response by Washburn County seniors is for each activity scheduled, per social distancing County Unit on Aging the dire need for socialization. Out of the 164 re- requirements. suspended all senior center sponses, these resounding replies were heard over and • Participants will be required to preregister for all activities at our meal sites Unit on Aging over again: activities since there is limited seating. in Spooner, Shell Lake, Question 1: What has been the most di cult • Participants will be issued a scan card, for contact- Birchwood, and Minong, thing that you have dealt with during the COVID less sign-in and sign-out, which will need to be done due to COVID. As of Tuesday, March 16, 2021, the pandemic? Being isolated. Being alone. No social- for each activity. Washburn County Board of Supervisors voted to ap- ization. Lack of fellowship. Not hugging. Being shut- • Staff will clean and sanitize each site, between prove the following Resolution: o from others. Not seeing family. Not volunteering. scheduled activities. Breathing without panicking. Waiting for the vac- • On the day the designated center is open for RESOLUTION APPROVING THE WASHBURN cine. Living in fear. No church. No one to talk with. activities, there will be the option to have a box lunch COUNTY SENIOR CENTER REOPENING PLAN Canceled travel plans. Delay in medical treatments. provided on-site or to take-out. We will mail monthly
Loneliness. Social Isolation. Loss of loved ones, no contribution statements for meals or use other meth- WHEREAS, the COVID-19 pandemic has a ected funeral. Not being able to visit a spouse in the nursing ods of accepting cashless or contact-less contributions all Washburn County citizens in varying degrees, in- home. Not enjoying shopping. Missing grandchildren. rather than accepting cash contributions on site. cluding our most vulnerable seniors; and, Con nement. No gatherings or holidays. Solitude for • Outdoor seating will be provided as an option, too long. Inability to attend historical events such as weather permitting. WHEREAS, a recent survey undertaken by the Ag- graduations, birthdays, and weddings. Not being able • Most activities are off ered at no charge and mem- ing/ADRC Director indicates that depression is a major to hug my parent in the nursing home. bership fees are not required to participate. factor that needs to be mitigated; and, ere were numerous answers to the open question • Some activities may require that you bring your of, “What activities do you miss the most?” Bowl- supplies, or a fee may be charged to purchase a book WHEREAS, the reopening of Washburn County ing, cards, bingo, eating at the senior center, strolling or items to complete the activity. Senior Centers will help introduce the ability for seniors through a store just looking, cra s, book clubs, camp- • Staff and participants will be required to follow to begin phased-in activities in a safe manner. ing, dominoes, talking to friends, exercise, hugging, the procedures for proper handwashing and sanitizer church, just socializing, going out to eat, freedom stations will be provided. THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the attached to gather, going for a walk, going grocery shopping Washburn County Senior Center Reopening Plan be without worry, yoga, quilting, music festivals, golf, A complete copy of the Reopening Plan can be adopted as approved by the Aging & Disability Service woodworking with friends, meeting with family, just found our Washburn County Aging website page: Committee; and, being NORMAL, lunch with the girls, swimming, https://www.co.washburn.wi.us, posted on Facebook, curling, prayer group, going to the library, traveling, will be provided to all participants, and signage will BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this plan may and the list goes on and on. be made highly visible at each senior center. be adjusted if changes are required by the Centers for We know that we will not be able to provide for Disease Control & Prevention and Washburn County all of your wishes, due to the guidelines that we are Please watch our Facebook Page for updates, sched- Public Health. required to follow with our programming require- ules, and menus at: https://www.facebook.com/ ments. But at least we have initialized the rst moves ADRCShellLakeWashburn is is a monumental step taken, by a rural Mid- to write, propose and get a plan approved. We can western American community. Your survey feedback now begin the move forward to pre-COVID condi- JOIN OUR TEAM! was taken seriously, with a concern for the mental tions. Over the last year, we have heard a very wide health and physical wellness of the older adults spectrum of opinions regarding what reopening • Part-Time Kitchen Helper/Sub-Cook in Washburn County. is past year, COVID has should look like. MOWA recently did a national pole Washburn County is seeking applications for a dropped us to our knees, turning neighbors against of membership and found that the vast majority of Part-Time Kitchen Helper/Sub-Cook at the Wash- neighbors with varying opinions of how this world- senior centers across the nation have not even started burn County Senior Centers. Weekdays from 6:30 wide pandemic should be handled. No matter race, a reopening plan. am – 2 pm and occasional evenings for special events. religion, or political preference, social isolation has For the few that we have found to be open in Wis- Starting pay rate is $12.83/hr. Apply online at a ected all ages, young to old. Our smiles have been consin, they have very limited activities, participants, https://www.co.washburn.wi.us/departments/ masked, as we avoid those that we would have hugged do not o er congregate meals, or are privately owned. administration/employment-info a year ago. Referencing the famous poem by Robert A few are in the process that we are. Some past par- For details contact Missy at 715-635-4467 Frost, the passage of this resolution has to lead us to ticipants want the senior centers all opened with no a fork in the road, and we are about to choose the restrictions, others opened with some restrictions, • LTE Senior Activities Facilitator/Monitor path less traveled. Since Washburn will be one of the some would like to require that everyone prove they Washburn County is seeking applicants for the posi- rst, there is no manual or rule book to follow. We are have had the vaccine, and some just say nope not yet. tion of Limited Term Senior Activities Facilitator/ taking the lead, rather than having someone else write Everyone has the right to decide how and when they Monitor. Responsibilities include planning, schedul- our fate and history. Our plan follows the recommen- will be ready to enter back into society, with or with- ing, facilitating, and monitoring of games, physical dations of the Centers for Disease Control & Preven- out a mask. I recently saw a sign that read, “Opinion activities, entertainment, arts & cra s, and education- tion (CDC), WI Elderly Nutrition Program, ServSafe, Spectrum Collapse Disorder – Where opinion has al opportunities that provide socialization for the in- OSHA, DHS, and Public Health. Washburn County reached such a wide spectrum that there is no chance dependently living older adults in Washburn County. will be one of the rst in the nation to test these wa- for any resolution or forward-moving conversation”. e Activities Facilitator should have a passion for ters, and because of this, our sta was requested to be We do not want to go down that road. We are resilient working with and assisting elderly populations; strong part of a planning meeting with the Senior Director and will move ahead. leadership skills, good written and verbal commu- of Nutrition Strategy and Impact for Meals on Wheels nication, and the ability to use computers, so ware, of America. We plan to open the centers slowly and safely. and related technology. Must be a high school grad or is brainstorming session included a MOWA • All staff will have completed training for the ap- equivalent; a minimum of a 2-year degree in recre- member from Texas, who is also strategizing the propriate health, safety, and hygiene precautions for ation studies, gerontology, or related eld is preferred. reopening plans for their senior center. Previous to cleaning and disinfecting by the CDC, ServSafe, and Am equivalent combination of training and experi- COVID, our number one focus was to counteract- OSHA guidelines. ence which provides the essential knowledge skills ing malnutrition for older adults. Now we are nding • All staff and participants will be screened for and abilities may be considered. is is a 11-month that the people have a greater hunger for connection, symptoms of COVID-19. limited term position. Starting wage range is $15.88- rather than food. • All staff and participants will be required to wear $17.66 per hour. For an application and further “When you’re anxious, your body responds. Anxi- a mask unless eating or drinking. Accommodations information, contact Washburn County Personnel ety triggers emotional and psychological changes in can be made for those not able to wear a mask, to O ce, P.O. Box 337, Shell Lake, WI 54871(715-468- your body to help you deal with the pressure. ese participate virtually. 4624 or [email protected] ). Application changes o en a ect the stomach and digestive tract • At this time, we cannot ask or require participants Deadline is 4:30 p.m., Friday, April 9, 2021. “EOE”. and can make you lose your appetite.” (https://www. to get the COVID-19 vaccination. If you are a partici- PAGE 2 | APRIL 2021 FOCUS FOR LIFE
FARMERS TO FAMILIES
WASHBURN COUNTY UNIT ON AGING & ADRC STAFF Contacts as of November 2020:
Due to COVID-19, the Aging and ADRC staff are not providing face- to-face appointments, but still continue to provide our many essential services. We are available for both phone and virtual appointments. We encourage you to contact us directly by calling the main offi ce line at 715-635-4460 for updates or one of our specialists listed below. If you have any comments or concerns, please contact the Aging Director/ADRC Supervisor, Linda Hand at 715-635-4460.
This is a list of our staff specialists by position, with direct contact information. If they are unavailable to answer your call, please make sure to include a detailed message, which includes your full name, April 2021 Farmers to Families phone, and description of the information and services that you are seeking. If their message states that they are out of the offi ce, you FREE Food Box Distribution can still call our main number to see if another staff member can assist you. Dates: Wednesday, April 7, 2021 and Wednesday, April 21, 2021 Location: Washburn County Highway Department 1600 County Highway H, Spooner, WI Anna Brown Time: Estimate start between 10-11 am Information & Assistance Specialist (I&A) TWO BOX PER VEHICLE if carpooling. 715-635-4462 Our I&A provides support to all adults regarding the needs of per- How will distribution work? sons with disabilities, older adults and their caregivers, and they e distribution will start once the food has been delivered and unloaded explore what programs or services meet those needs. They take the at the Washburn County Highway Department. Due to the uncertainty of the time to get to know your situation, and collaborate with you and your weather and the truck’s estimated time of arrival, we will anticipate the distri- support network on next steps. bution to start sometime between 10-11 a.m. e distribution will continue until all 1232 boxes are gone. From our past experience at previous distribu- Kelly Weisenbeck tions, it can take anywhere from 1-4 hours, dependent upon how many people show up. ere are NO GUARANTEES it will last that long. We will post on Elder Benefi t Specialist (EBS) Facebook as soon as all boxes are gone. 715-635-4478 ere will be one entrance and one exit to the facility on Highway H, The EBS helps people ages 60+ navigate both private and public Spooner. If the Highway Department parking lot is lled, over ow tra c will benefi ts, including Medicaid, Social Security, Medicare, prescription be directed to park at another location. Law Enforcement will be present to plans, Food Share and many other options to help seniors. assist in directing this tra c to not block highways or emergency entrances to the hospital and clinic. Once in line at the Highway facility, please follow the Anne Bethke signage and aggers, who will be directing vehicle tra c to form three lanes Disability Benefi t Specialist (DBS) and proceed to the three distribution sites. You will be asked to remain in your 715-635-4466 vehicles at all times, to allow for a safe and e cient process. Once at the load- A DBS assists people age 17 ½ - 59 who have a disability. They ing zone, you will be asked to pop your trunk. A volunteer will then put your can help with questions and applications related to Social Security food box, which includes a gallon of milk, inside and shut the trunk. For your Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), safety and that of our volunteers, we will all be wearing safety vests, masks, and Medicaid, Food Share and other public and private benefi ts for adults gloves. We would ask that if at any time you need to roll down your window to with disabilities. speak to a volunteer, that you also please wear a mask. PLEASE NOTE: Due to the large response and those families that are being turned away, we have LIMITED ONE box per family and TWO boxes per ve- Missy Murley hicle if carpooling. ere will be no exceptions. If you are a Washburn County Nutrition Director – 715-635-4467 resident that is a homebound senior, quarantined due to COVID, a family with The Nutrition Director oversees the Washburn County Elder Nutrition absolutely no transportation, or you cannot leave work to pick-up, you can call Program, which provides Congregate Meals and Home Delivered our o ce to see if we can make arrangements to have a delivery made to you. Meals through our sites in Spooner, Shell Lake, Birchwood, and Mi- Please share this information with your family and friends! If you have ques- nong. Due to COVID-19, the meal sites were still closed to the public tions, please contact the Washburn County Unit on Aging at 715-635-4460. as of September 2020, but residents can still receive home deliver meals and shelf stable/grocery delivery. Please call for updates. Position Vacant Offi ce Reception/Transportation Coordinator 715-635-4460 The Washburn County Aging RSVP Transportation Program pro- vides medical and nutritional rides for residents 60+. Due to CO- VID-19, as of September 2020 these services were still temporarily suspended. If you are in need of transportation or delivery of food or other supplies, please contact our offi ce for alternative options that are available.
Sheila Pierquet Fiscal Assistant 715-635-4463 Aging and ADRC Fiscal Department
When was the last time you had a Beneficiary Checkup? Be A HERO Wash Your Hands Life events such as the birth of a child or David P. Ford CeRtiFied for your health grandchild, a recent marriage or divorce, death of FinAnCiAL a spouse or dependent, and your overall wealth PLAnneR™ CFP® makes this review necessary to make sure your investments will go to those you care about. Social Distance Give us a call to schedule your free consultation.
Lynn Ford Chartered Stay Home if Retirement You are Sick Planning Counselor™ CRPC® Helping Chart Your Financial Course Located in the Shell Lake State Bank: Spooner • Minong • Hayward • Stone Lake 715-635-3136 • www.davidpford.net Wear A Mask
Securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered investment advisor and broker- dealer (member FINRA/SIPC). Insurance products are offered through LPL or its licensed affiliates. Shell Lake State Bank and Ford Financial Group are not registered as a broker-dealer or investment advisor. Registered representatives of LPL offer products and services using Ford Financial Group and may also be employees of Shell Lake State Bank. These products and services are being offered through LPL or its affiliates, which are separate entities from, and not affiliates of, Shell Lake State Bank or Ford Tom Sutton Financial Group. Securities and insurance offered through LPL or its affiliates are: LPL 1280 Chandler Drive, Spooner, WI 54801 | 715-635-2111 Not insured by FDIC or any government agency | Not bank guaranteed Financial Get Vaccinated www.SpoonerHealth.com Not bank deposits or obligations | May lose value Advisor FOCUS FOR LIFE APRIL 2021 | Page 3
Washburn County Unit on Creative Journaling Aging & Aging and Disability Resource Center Group for Caregivers 715-635-4460 Toll Free: 888-538-3031 -which is in all of us. Fax: 715-635-4464 TTY: 711 There will be two (2), six (6) week sessions offered for Washburn County, WI Caregivers of older adults 304 2nd Street, PO Box 316 with Dementia or other serious conditions. Shell Lake, WI 54871 One session will be for the caregiver themselves HOURS: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. which will be limited to six (6) participants. Monday - Friday The other class will be offered for both the care- giver and the person they care for, to share the experience together. This session will be limited to www.adrcconnections.org five (5) teams of two (2) people, Caregiver and Care www.co.washburn.wi.us Recipient, for a total of ten (10) participants.
• If the senior centers are allowed to open, this class will be offered both in person and as a live Creative Journaling can be a great way to de-stress virtual creative journaling class. and express some of the day-to-day challenges & • All supplies will be available for pick-up or gifts of the Caregiving experience -with or without mailed to you ahead of time. Aging Director/ words. This group is designed for non-artists who • If attending in person, you will need to follow all ADRC Supervisor: would like tips in learning ways of enjoying the CDC guidelines as put in place. Linda Hand creative art process without the stress of producing a • If attending virtually, you will need access to “finished product”. Sharing artwork or writing will a computer with video, microphone, and Information & Assistance be optional. Learning a variety of “starting points” internet service. If you want to participate, but Specialist: will be our focus, as well as the benefits of meeting do not have that technology available, please Anna Marie Brown other caregivers! Participants will receive a blank contact our office to find out about our lending Elder Benefit Specialist: journal and watercolor pencils. program. Karen Turner, a retired Art Therapist whose pas- • Please call our office to register at 715-635-4460. Kelly Weisenbeck sion is creative journaling, has led a variety of art • Space is limited. Disability Benefit Specialist: groups for over twenty-five years in Duluth and • Washburn County residents will have priority northwest Wisconsin. She enjoys sharing the sur- Anne Bethke for registration. Fiscal Assistant: Sheila Pierquet prises and quiet satisfactions of the creative process • There is no cost to participate. Transportation Coordinator/ Receptionist: Position Vacant Nutrition Director: Missy Murley Personal Recording Alarm Clock Dementia Care Specialist: Busy lives can sometimes require a little assistance local retailers that stock medical supplies. Trisha Witham to remind us of obligations. There are Apps for cell For more information on reminder devices or phones to set for reminders. Just like writing ap- other assistive technology devices contact: North pointments on our calendars the reminders keep Country Independent Living’s Independent Liv- Appointments at the ADRC us from missing important events. One thing that ing Specialist for Burnett, Washburn and Sawyer Due to COVID-19, our Aging and ADRC becomes difficult as we age is the addition of medi- Counties - Don Posh , call or text 715-919-4932 or staff are not currently providing face-to-face cations. Oftentimes there are many medications that email [email protected]. appointments, but are still continuing to provide have specific instructions. Missed medications can Our non-profit agency, North Country Indepen- our many essential services. We are available for have tragic results. This small device (5” Wide x 2 dent Living, aims to empower individuals living phone and video appointments and we encourage 3/4” High x 1 3/4” deep) can have up to 6 messages with disabilities and we are available to assist ALL you to contact us directly by calling the main recorded for specific times. A programmable re- ages and disabilities. We are not a vendor and do office line at 715-635-4460. minder can help to keep on track with medications not sell any products, but we are here as a re- for you or a loved one. There are a variety of these source. Alternate formats and accommodations are AGING & DISABILITY devices on the market. Some may have more or less available by request. recording capability resulting in the price difference. SERVICES COMMITTEE: Prices range from $35. - $60. online and available at Be Well...We’re All in This Together! Bob Olsgard - Chair Linda Featherly - Vice-Chair Robert Reiter HAPPY DAY CLUB NEWS Steven Sather Keith Trembath Due to the Covid-19 virus government mandates, ful and stimulating program for those with dementia our program is currently suspended. Any questions who attend the program, PLUS makes a great respite AGING & DISABILITY CITIZEN or concerns you may have regarding our Program, break and get-away time for caregivers. Please call us ADVISORY COMMITTEE: Alzheimer’s Disease, or other related dementias, or feel free to visit us at any time for more informa- are more than welcome by calling the number tion regarding our program. The program is open Kathy Fabert - Chair below! We continue to work diligently to keep our every Monday, and Thursday from 9 to 2 p.m. Cathy Peterson - Vice Chair Program on track and will be ready to open when The Dementia/Alzheimer’s Day Respite program’s Keith Trembath Mary Lou Gabriel conditions allow. CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP meets on the first Jill Fries Monday of each month at 9 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Danielle Larson The Dementia/Alzheimer’s Day Respite Program Church in Spooner. Please check out this very infor- HAPPY DAY CLUB located in Spooner (Trinity mative, helpful and fun support group. We would Lutheran Church) has openings for Alzheimer’s and love to have you join us. EVERYONE IS WELOME other dementia afflicted people!! Please call 715-416- TO ATTEND. Snacks and coffee available. Call 715- Get on a waiting list NOW 2942 with any questions you may have regarding this 416-2942 with any questions you may have. program. HAPPY DAY CLUB is a very fun, respect- for your housing needs LATER Washburn County Housing Authority is accepting applications for their rental properties. COMMUNITY FIRST - WASHBURN COUNTY 1 & 2 bedroom units Schricker Manor & Goslin Court (Spooner) Community First Washburn County is in the West Side Manor (Shell Lake) • Birch Haven Manor (Birchwood) midst of a recruiting process to fill out a board of Call for details: 715-635-2321 directors. After we have assembled a board or direc- this institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer tors, we will be completing our 501(3)(c) process. The members of COC are passionate about making positive impacts in the community. Here are the links to our website, Facebook page and board application Great-Looking•Great-Feeling form.
Website: healthywashco.org Dental Implants (Community First tab is centrally located on the homepage) Restore your Facebook: smile and your https://www.facebook.com/Community1stWC confi dence with implants that feel and function If you are interested in joining forces with Commu- like your nity First as a member or on the Board, please apply natural teeth. here: https://form.jotform.com/210455295059054.
Call today to schedule your SAGE NATIONAL LGBT ELDER HOTLINE FREE Consultation! Talk and be heard at the SAGE (Advocacy and managed by United Way Worldwide, and respond- Services for LGBT Elders) LGBT Elder Hotline. ers: Members of the LGBT elder community are likely • Are certified in crisis response to live alone and feel isolated. Through the hot- • Offer support without judgment line, anyone with a phone can connect to an LGBT • Answer questions factually and confidentially Christopher S. Carroll, D.D.S. responder who is friendly, knowledgeable, and ready • Provide information about community support 715-635-8282 to listen. If you are an LGBT elder or care for one, resources such as healthcare, transportation, 701 N. River Street, Spooner • riverstreetdental.net call the free SAGE Hotline, toll-free at 877-360- counseling, legal services, and emotional MONDAY - THURSDAY 7:30 A.M. - 4:30 P.M. LGBT (5428), available 24/7 in English or Spanish, support FRIDAYS BY APPOINTMENT with translation in 180 languages. The hotline is Page 4 | APRIL 2021 FOCUS FOR LIFE
ALL SENIOR CENTERS ARE CLOSED the Washburn County senior centers were closed due to the covid-19 virus, until further notice. WASHBURN COUNTY SENIOR CENTERS STILL CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC BUT WILL BE PROVIDING HOME DELIVERED MEALS
MINONG AREA SENIOR CENTER BIRCHWOOD SENIOR CENTER 700 Houston Street, Minong | 715.466.4448 LAKESIDE CENTER nutrition SITE COOK: Darcy Visger - 715-645-0418 110 Euclid Avenue, Birchwood | 715.354.3001 PRESIDENT: JOYCE PALUCCI - 715-466-4448 NUTRITION SITE AIDES: BOBBI ROBOTKA & TINA LUDWIG PRESIDENT: MIKE HOUY | 815-222-7011 KIRK WALTERS Minong Area Senior Center Secretary Carol Addington Birchwood Senior Center Greetings Focus Readers! The good news is that as of my writing this in early March, the County is discussing the opening of the area Senior Centers. If you are reading this you survived February, congratula- Nothing is definite yet, but the chance of at least a partial opening looks prom- tions! You are ‘resilient’. Resilience isn’t a single skill, it’s a ising. Nothing definite I can report here, but keep your fingers crossed. variety of skills and coping mechanisms. To bounce back From the Old Farmers Almanac: The term “All Fools,” was probably meant from ‘bumps’ in the road as well as failures, you should focus as a deliberate stab at All Saints (November 1) and All Souls (November 2) Day. on ‘emphasizing’ (accenting) the positive. Remember that Although the origin of playing practical jokes and pranks on this day is hazy, song? Jean Chatzky gets the credit for that thought which I many folklorists believe it may go back to 16th-century France. At that time, received in an email recently. Accent the Positive, eliminate New Year’s Day was March 25, with a full week of partying and exchanging gifts the negative. So it wasn’t -30 for almost two weeks and I didn’t burn all of my until April 1. In 1582, the Gregorian calendar moved New Year’s Day to Janu- wood, just hum cold. But look at it now. Wow! A good lesson in the fact that ary 1. Those who forgot or refused to honor the new calendar were teasingly all bad things come to an end too. called, “April Fool!” Weather folklore states, “If it thunders on All Fools Day, it Moving right along., I am glad to report that both Birchwood students that brings good crops of corn and hay.” received our scholarships have them now, Taylor Good and Matt Marcinski, In the March Focus we announced that we are looking for candidates for the and they are enjoying their learning experience. Along that line, Birchwood Minong Area Senior Center Board. At that time, we said that the new term School has been doing really well and has been in session all year, without would begin in July. We will be discussing going back to the regular schedule much COVID incidents. We are still doing Back Pack, but not working directly with the new term beginning Jan 2022. This gives us more time solicit candi- with the kids. I miss that, but just being in the building is a treat. In fact, last dates in person. We especially need candidates for President and Vice Presi- month I took my Ginger with me and we got to visit with some of the pri- dent. However, we encourage a healthy competition for all board positions. mary students, and boy were they happy to see Ginger. Ginger was so happy I Feel free to come to a meeting to get a feel for what board positions entail. It thought she would shake her tail completely off! I do hope when all this crap probably isn’t what you think it would be like; or as portrayed on TV. No comes to an end you will give consideration to becoming a “book buddy”. It stuffy executives sitting at a long table! will fill you with JOY! I guarantee it. We will begin fundraising soon to finish our parking lot replacement. Last I hope you have had your COVID vaccine by now. I have and it went ex- year we had the old blacktop removed and a rock base laid down. This year we tremely well. Even easier than the annual flu shot, which I hope you always hope to raise enough to blacktop the lot. If you would like to donate, or help have. We are fortunate to have several health suppliers here in our area to serve with the fundraising efforts we would love to have your help! us. Can you imagine sitting in your car for hours to get it, like we see on T.V. April Birthdays: April 21 Mary Heller and then not getting it after all that, and coming back to do it all over. Ouch. April 9 Eric Gulbrandsen April 21 Warren Nelson I am pretty sure that you haven’t lost weight this winter and are happy with April 17 M. Kathleen Edwards April 22 Barbara Grubbs your ‘mobility’. Well we want you to know that we will be checking into the Tess Schirmer Darcy Visger possibility of doing those exercise classes at LLBC in April. It may not be until April 19 Suzie Clark-Tenney April 23 Betty Santa June as the club opens in April, but only on the weekends and full-time after April 20 Rita Peterson April 30 Halina Sobus Memorial Day. There are enough of us who live out here and are members of the club to have you as our guests. I will have more info for you by next month. We look forward to meeting new friends, and reconnecting with our members as So again, ‘thththat’s all folks’ and I leave you with this wise thought (not mine our centers open. “We need old friends to help us grow old and new friends to of course): Life is like an outfit, sometimes you need to alter it to make it fit. help us stay young.” – Letty Cottin Pogrebin (Just think about it for a while....) Submitted by: Kirk Walters, Secretary Minong Area Senior Center
chicog news
Don’t forget to go to the polls on Tuesday, April 6th if you did not already vote pings of small, round balls. Deer scat. I find deer beds as well, with leaves and by absentee ballot. If you want to see the ballot for this election go to “myvotewi. ice on the surface of the snow, the impressions of front legs and a compact body gov”. Select “What’s on my Ballot”. Then enter your address. If you voted by ab- snuggled to stay warm. Sometimes there are several beds in one area. Last win- sentee ballot and what to know the status of your absentee ballot select “Vote Ab- ter when I’d been away for several days, I found a group of deer beds under the sentee”. After the election you can check there to see if your ballot was counted. pines in my back yard. Keeping watch for me. When snow covers the ground we notice that many residents of varying types My resident fox, another unseen neighbor, walks my road and driveway. It inhabit the forest with us. I walk. Snowshoe. Ski. Investigate. Though I rarely seems that the fox is usually the first mammal to venture out onto the lake. Once see rabbits, their tracks abound. They are spaced along the snow as if they are in a while a special find. A small round bushy tail. A bone, sometimes clean, bouncing. But we know that rabbits use their forefeet to push off for each jump, sometimes with sinew or fur still attached. Or the huge imprint of spread wings and land first on their long back legs before settling. on soft snow as a raptor or an owl lands to claim its prey. Squirrels are no surprise. I see tiny four-toed footprints on my deck. In the Years ago, before there were many trails through our woods, Jim and I navigat- woods I notice many tunnels burrowed from the surface, angling down to the ed a wonderful new white world on our snowshoes. And there, deep in the forest ground where acorns have been stashed. Leaves adorn the tunnel, pushed up as we found more snowshoe tracks! It took a few seconds for us to realize that they the squirrel digs. After burying food in several thousand places each fall, squir- were our own. rels actually remember where to find their caches. Concerns about loneliness and social isolation are motivating the Washburn Snow around a large Norway pine is surrounded by pine cone leafs. Who has County Unit on Aging to find ways to safely reopen the Minong, Spooner, been chipping away to find the tasty seeds within? From tree to tree, tiny tracks Birchwood and Shell Lake Senior Centers. Using the Center for Disease Control show feet stepping in a straight line, the snow trail looking like a chain. Occa- (CDC) guidelines and with approval from the Aging and Disability Services sionally a tail dragging behind will leave an imprint. Sometimes smaller rodents Committee they are looking at ways to provide some activities for limited num- sink into the snow and make a tunnel just below the surface. ber of participants at the Centers. Many of us here in Chicog are also interested So many deer tracks, their thin legs sinking deep. I understand why they in safely resuming activities important to us like the walkabout. It may help to choose to step on the firmer snow created by my skis or snowshoes. Occasionally keep an eye on what the Centers are doing to reopen. Maybe we could use what- I follow deer trails. Walking through brush and grasses. Fitting between trees, ever model they come up with to help guide our reopening. since my width seems similar. But ducking often to avoid branches that hang far Also, the Aging Unit has been working on purchasing a new vehicle. They are above deer height but are right in my path. I remind myself to wear glasses to looking at purchasing a 14 passenger van. This van would be available for use by protect my eyes when bushwhacking. senior groups in Washburn County. The funding and requisition process is un- In winter animals walk directly to their destinations, not wasting steps or der way and once approved the next step would be a publicly advertised bidding energy. If I’m attentive I will notice snipped off branch ends where the nutritious process. Is it possible that there could be a Chicog Senior trip in our future? green buds, that are already formed and preparing for spring, have been nibbled. Spring is here! Get outside. Take a walk in the woods. Enjoy! Often deer trails lead to the open water of the brook. Of course, there are drop-
National Weather Weather Spotters Wanted! Skywarn Spotter Training Offered in April 2021 Service - Duluth, MN
Join us for FREE Skywarn Spotter Training this Spring! BASIC CLASS • Wed Apr 7 at 11 am Why Take a Class? • Mon Apr 12 at 12 pm • Learn more about NOAA/NWS and what we do • Tue Apr 13 at 6:30 pm • Understand severe weather basics, like how thunderstorms form and what makes a storm “Severe” • Wed Apr 14 at 10 am • Help NWS and our community by reporting severe weather • Thu Apr 15 at 6:30 pm • Classes are interactive! You can ask our meteorologists questions throughout the live class! • Wed Apr 21 at 6:30 pm Two levels of classes offered: ADVANCED CLASS • BASIC: This is our standard class, which takes around 1-1.5 hours. We’ll cover all the basics - no experience necessary! • Tue Apr 27 at 10 am • Wed Apr 28 at 2 pm • ADVANCED: Do you really love weather? Take the Advanced class to learn • Thu Apr 29 at 6:30 pm even more about storm structure, how to interpret radar imagery, and more! * Recorded Version of Both Visit weather.gov/dlh/skywarn to sign up for a class! Classes Available, too! weather.gov/duluth FOCUS FOR LIFE APRIL 2021 | Page 5
NUTRITION CORNER APRIL LUNCH & HOME DELIVERED MEALS MENU MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY
Baked ham hOLIdAY Cheesy ALL Potatoes seNIOR Green Beans CeNteRs Cherry Cobbler CLOsed
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California Pulled BBQ Pork Chops tender lasagna Chicken w/lto Pork sweet Potatoes roast Beef Caesar salad ww Bun Potato salad sweet Corn mashed Bread stick Cucumber/ Baked Beans Blueberry Potatoes mandarin tomato salad Pineapple Crisp steamed oranges fruit Cocktail Carrots Peaches
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shepherd’s Pie Garlic thyme Chicken taco salisbury steak waldorf Chicken whipped steak salad w/Black mashed Baby sandwich Potatoes sweet Potatoes Bean, tomato, reds wG Bread w/ roasted Brussel Green Beans onion, Corn Glazed Carrots leaf lettuce sprouts apple Crisp salsa, sC Peaches apple-Cranberry LEMON ROASTED mandarin wG Corn Chips Coleslaw oranges Pears Crisp Grape ASPARAGUS salad This lemon roasted asparagus is so easy to cook and 12 13 14 15 16 makes the perfect veggie side. Servings: 4 Calories 118 kcal California Burger swedish tator tot roasted turkey Baked Chicken Author Lacey Baier w/lto meatballs hot Dish w/ mashed whipped sweet Ingredients ww Bun w/mushroom Beef, Peas, Potatoes, Potatoes • 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed Baked Beans sauce over Carrots, Green stuffing & Gravy Corn • 2 tbsp. olive oil fruit Cocktail egg noodles Beans, Corn steamed fruited Jell-o • 2 cloves garlic, minced Carrots wG Bread stick Broccoli • 2 tbsp. parmesan, grated mandarin applesauce Pears • 1 lemon, thinly sliced oranges • 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice 19 20 21 22 23 (approx. 1 lemon • 1/2 tsp sea salt turkey & swiss meatloaf sweet & sour swiss steak Baked Cod • 1/4 tsp ground black pepper sandwich mashed Pork w/stir Garlic Baby roasted sweet Instructions: w/Cranberry Potatoes fry Veggies over reds Potatoes 1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F and line a mayo on Glazed Carrots Brown rice steamed Coleslaw rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. ww Bread Cinnamon egg roll Broccoli mixed 2. Add the asparagus, lemon slices, olive oil, freshly Black Bean & applesauce mandarin fruit Cocktail Berry Crisp squeezed lemon juice, sea salt, ground black pepper, lentil salad oranges minced garlic, and parmesan cheese to the baking sheet. 3. Toss to evenly coat. 26 27 28 29 30 4. Place in the oven and roast for 8-10 minutes or until the asparagus is crisp on the outside and ten- ALL meALs seRved wIth 1% mILk, bReAd & butteR der in the center. meNu subJeCt tO ChANGe due tO FOOd AvAILAbILItY Nutrition Facts CheCk with your meal site to Confirm Lemon Roasted Asparagus Amount Per Serving (0.25 lb.) For meal reservations or questions about your local nutrition program call: Calories 118 Calories from Fat 79 & Daily Value* Birchwood (715-354-3001) • Minong (715-645-0418) Fat 8.8g 14% • Saturated Fat 2.2g11% Spooner & Shell Lake (715-635-8283) Cholesterol 4.8 mg2% • Sodium 339.2mg14% Carbohydrates 7.1g2% • Fiber 2.9g12% For any other Washburn County Elder Nutrition Program questions Sugar 2.7g3% • Protein 5.3g11% contact Missy Murley, Nutrition Director, (715-635-4460) *Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet
RECIPE FOR: More Herbed Spaghetti Squash • 1 small spaghetti squash Focus • 2 1/2 tablespoons butter • 2 1/2 tablespoons fi nely chopped mixed soft herbs For Life (basil, chives, parsley, sage, etc.) • Salt and Fresh Ground Pepper to taste
Articles Cut squash in half lengthwise, remove seeds and pierce several times with fork. Place cut side down in baking on pages 4 & 5 dish, add 1/2” water and cover with aluminum foil. Bake 30-45 minutes, until squash is easily pierced with paring knife. Turn squash over and cook another in the 10-15 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly. Using fork, gently pull the strands of squash Weekender North away from the peel and place the squash strands into a mixing bowl. This Week! Heat skillet. Add butter, squash, herbs, salt and pepper and toss gently to heat and thoroughly combine. Serve immediately
WEEKLY EAT WELL, CHALLENGES
TRY TO LIMIT YOUR AGE WELL. SODIUM INTAKE TO 2300 MG PER DAY OR LESS WHAT ABOUT SODIUM? Photos by Pixabay.com PREPARE 2 MEALS WITH Do you ever really think about the amount of sodium we consume. SPICES AND HERBS in the food you eat? How much is too much? And how You can search for low sodium options in the grocery little is too little? The Dietary Guidelines for Americans store or buy unprocessed whole foods. Eating at restau- REPLACE 2 SNACKS WITH recommend less than 2,300 mg. For those over the age rants less is an easy way to reduce sodium intake. LOW-SODIUM OPTIONS of 51 and those of any age who are African American, There are many ways to boost flavor besides relying have hypertension, or diabetes are recommended to on salt during and after cooking. You can use citrus READ FOOD LABELS FOR consume about 1,500 mg per day. juices, flavored vinegars, hot peppers, herbs, and SODIUM CONTENT But where does sodium come from? Most does not spices. You can appreciate the underlying flavor of the DID YOU KNOW? come from the saltshaker but from ingredients we buy food more. The average American at the grocery store and bring home to cook. It’s not consumes just prepackaged foods that you have to watch out for, GWAAR Nutrition Team in Collaboration with UW Stout Dietetic Students. more than 3,400 mg of deli meats, some cheeses, and breads are high. The By: Marcilina Worden 4-2021 sodium per day. more processed foods we consume, the more sodium Page 6 | APRIL 2021 FOCUS FOR LIFE COVID-19 NEWS Benefits of Getting a Vaccination COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibility Updates
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – 03/11/2021
Washburn County Vaccinating Healthcare Entities Provide Updates Regarding Eligibility
On February 24, 2021 Washburn County vaccinating healthcare entities, includ- ing Indianhead Medical Center, Spooner Health, and the Washburn County Health Department, announced their organizations would continue prioritization of indi- viduals 65 and older for COVID-19 vaccination. As of Thursday, March 11, 2021 66.5% of Washburn County residents 65 and Updated January 5, 2021 ~ Center for Disease Control and Prevention older have received one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, a 20.1% increase since Feb- ruary 24. As we reach a critical mass of the 65 and older population being vaccinat- We understand that some people may be concerned about getting vaccinated now ed, Indianhead Medical Center, Spooner Health, and the Washburn County Health that COVID-19 vaccines are available in the United States. While more COVID-19 Department are working closely to determine the best course of action for moving vaccines are being developed as quickly as possible, routine processes and proce- on to March 1 eligibility groups. dures remain in place to ensure the safety of any vaccine that is authorized or ap- The Washburn County Health Department and Indianhead Medical Center will proved for use. Safety is a top priority, and there are many reasons to get vaccinated. continue prioritizing the remaining 65 and older population. Spooner Health will be opening their public vaccination clinics to the March 1 eligibility groups starting on Can a COVID-19 vaccine make me sick with COVID-19? Monday, March 15, 2021. See below for details. No. None of the COVID-19 vaccines contain the live virus that causes COVID-19 so a COVID-19 vaccine cannot make you sick with COVID-19. Below is a summary of Indianhead Medical Center is continuing efforts to complete vaccination of pa- the benefits of COVID-19 vaccination based on what we currently know. CDC will tients 65 and older. Eligible patients will be contacted by their provider to schedule continue to update this information as more data become available. an appointment.
COVID-19 vaccination will help keep you from getting COVID-19 The Washburn County Health Department will continue to hold public vaccina- • All COVID-19 vaccines currently available in the United States have been shown tion clinics for the following eligible groups: to be highly effective at preventing COVID-19. • 1A – frontline healthcare workers – DHS eligibility now includes all spiritual care • All COVID-19 vaccines that are in development are being carefully evaluated in providers (clergy) under this category clinical trials and will be authorized or approved only if they make it substantially • 1B - police and fire personnel less likely you’ll get COVID-19. • 1B - adults 65 and older • Based on what we know about vaccines for other diseases and early data from clinical trials, experts believe that getting a COVID-19 vaccine may also help keep Registration for WCHD clinics opens on Mondays at 8:30AM. Online registration you from getting seriously ill even if you do get COVID-19. is strongly encouraged and can be done at https://www.washburncodisaster.org/. • Getting vaccinated yourself may also protect people around you, particularly Individuals unable to utilize online registration can call 715-635-4402 to schedule people at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19. an appointment. If you are a Washburn County resident 65 or older having difficulty • Experts continue to conduct more studies about the effect of COVID-19 vaccina- finding vaccination, please call us at 715-635-4402 and leave a message with your tion on severity of illness from COVID-19, as well as its ability to keep people name and contact information. Leaving a message does not act as scheduling an from spreading the virus that causes COVID-19. appointment, but we will do our best to connect you with an appointment at one of our clinics or one of our partners’ clinics. This is not a waitlist for WCHD clinics. COVID-19 vaccination is a safer way to help build protection Do not call to leave a message if you are not 65 or older. • COVID-19 can have serious, life-threatening complications, and there is no way to know how COVID-19 will affect you. And if you get sick, you could spread the Spooner Health will hold public vaccination clinics starting the week of March disease to friends, family, and others around you. 15, 2021 for Washburn County residents in the following eligible groups: • Clinical trials of all vaccines must first show they are safe and effective before any • Adults 65 and older vaccine can be authorized or approved for use, including COVID-19 vaccines. The • People enrolled in Medicaid long-term care programs, such as IRIS, Family known and potential benefits of a COVID-19 vaccine must outweigh the known and Care, Children’s Waiver, and Katie Beckett potential risks of the vaccine for use under what is known as an Emergency Use • Utility and communications workers who cannot socially distance at work Authorization (EUA). • Drivers for public transit who have frequent contact with members of the public • Getting COVID-19 may offer some natural protection, known as immunity. Cur- • Food supply chain workers, including farm and agricultural workers, livestock rent evidence suggests that reinfection with the virus that causes COVID-19 is un- veterinarians and breeders, food production workers, retail food workers, and hun- common in the 90 days after initial infection. However, experts don’t know for sure ger relief personnel how long this protection lasts, and the risk of severe illness and death from CO- VID-19 far outweighs any benefits of natural immunity. COVID-19 vaccination Registration for Spooner Health clinics opens on Mondays at 9:00 AM, online will help protect you by creating an antibody (immune system) response without only, at https://www.spoonerhealth.com/vaccine. Do not call Spooner Health to having to experience sickness. schedule an appointment. • Both natural immunity and immunity produced by a vaccine are important parts of COVID-19 disease that experts are trying to learn more about, and CDC will Staff in K-12 schools and higher education should contact their employer about keep the public informed as new evidence becomes available. vaccination plans and should not seek vaccination at Indianhead Medical Center or at Spooner Health or Washburn County Health Department clinics. COVID-19 vaccination will be an important tool to help stop the pandemic It is important to remember that vaccine supply is limited. It will take time to • Wearing masks and social distancing help reduce your chance of being exposed to reach all people within each priority population. Current and future eligible groups the virus or spreading it to others, but these measures are not enough. Vaccines will in Wisconsin can be found at work with your immune system so it will be ready to fight the virus if you are https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/covid-19/vaccine-about.htm. exposed. • The combination of getting vaccinated and following CDC’s recommendations to We appreciate your patience and understanding as we continue efforts to vacci- protect yourself and others will offer the best protection from COVID-19. nate Washburn County residents. • Stopping a pandemic requires using all the tools we have available. As experts learn more about how COVID-19 vaccination may help reduce spread of the disease Information and resources related to COVID-19 in Washburn County can be in communities, CDC will continue to update the recommendations to protect found at communities using the latest science. https://www.co.washburn.wi.us/news/public-health/Coronavirus-Outbreak
We accept all dental insurances, and are You can contracted in-network with many insurance Afford companies including: • Delta Dental to Have a • Cigna • BlueCross BlueShield Healthy • Principal • MetLife Smile! • Health Partners • Liberty Dental Plan • Humana Senior Dental • United Concordia Savings Plan • United Health Care No insurance? No problem! Our Senior Plan is an affordable program for those Seniors (60 years & older). As a member in our Senior Plan, you will experience signifi cant savings, which will allow you to maintain a clean and healthy mouth without insurance. For more information, please visit GREEN VALLEY GreenValleyDentalCare.com DENTAL CARE or give us at call Paul A. Kloek, D.D.S. W7154 Green Valley Rd., 715-635-7888 Spooner, WI FOCUS FOR LIFE APRIL 2021 | PAGE 7
COVID-19 NEWS Medicare Covers COVID-19 Vaccine BY MEDICARE Medicare number. Medicare covers the vaccine at fraud results in higher health care costs and taxes for no cost to you, so if anyone asks you for your Medi- everyone. Pharmaceutical manufacturers are distributing the care number to get early access to the vaccine, you • Protect yourself from Medicare fraud. Guard your vaccine to federally and state-approved locations to can bet it is a scam. Medicare card like it is a credit card. Remember: start the vaccination of priority groups. Each state Here’s what to know: Medicare will never contact you for your Medicare has its own plan for deciding who they’ll vaccinate • You cannot pay to put your name on a list to get number or other personal information unless you rst and how residents can get vaccines. Contact the vaccine. have given them permission in advance. your local health department for more information • You cannot pay to get early access to a vaccine. • Medicare will never call you to sell you anything. on COVID-19 vaccines in your area. Medicare cov- • Do not share your personal or fi nancial informa- • You may get calls from people promising you ers the vaccine at no cost to you. ere is no copay- tion if someone calls, texts, or emails you promising things if you give them a Medicare number. Do not ment/coinsurance, no deductible. Be sure to bring access to the vaccine for a fee. do it. your Medicare card so your health care provider or • Con artists may try to get your Medicare num- • Medicare will never visit you at your home. pharmacy can bill Medicare. ber or personal information so they can steal your • Medicare cannot enroll you over the phone unless Be alert for scammers trying to steal your identity and commit Medicare fraud. Medicare you called rst.
BBB Tip: What to Expect after Getting a COVID-19 Vaccine
Don’t Accessible version: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/expect/after.html Share COVID-19 vaccination will help protect you from getting COVID-19. You may have some side effects, which are normal signs that your body is building protection. These side effects may affect your ability to do daily activities, but they should go away in a few days. Some people have Your no side effects. COVID-19 Common side effects Vaccine On the arm where you got the shot: Throughout the rest of your body: Card on • Pain • Tiredness • Chills • Redness • Headache • Fever Social • Swelling • Muscle pain • Nausea Media Helpful tips BY BETTER BUSINESS If you have pain or discomfort after getting your vaccine, talk to your doctor about taking BUREAU an over-the-counter medicine, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. To reduce pain and discomfort where you got the shot: To reduce discomfort from fever: Got your COVID-19 • Apply a clean, cool, wet washcloth over the area. • Drink plenty of fluids. vaccine? Great job! But • Use or exercise your arm. • Dress lightly. don’t share a photo of Ask your vaccination provider your vaccination card on social media. e self- When to call the doctor about getting started with v-safe In most cases, discomfort from fever or pain is normal. Contact your doctor or healthcare provider: identifying information Use your smartphone to tell CDC about any on it makes you vulner- • If the redness or tenderness where you got the shot increases after 24 hours side effects after getting the COVID-19 vaccine. able to identity the and • If your side effects are worrying you or do not seem to be going away after a few days You’ll also get reminders if you need a second dose can help scammers create phony versions. Learn more about v-safe. What to watch out for: Remember www.cdc.gov/vsafe You got your COVID-19 • Side effects may affect your ability to do daily activities, but they should go away in a few days. inoculation, and you are • With some COVID-19 vaccines, you will need 2 shots in order to get the most protection. You should get the second shot even if you have side effects after the first shot, excited to share the good unless a vaccination provider or your doctor tells you not to get it. news and encourage • You will only need 1 shot of the viral vector COVID-19 vaccine, Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine. others to do the same. You take a selfi e holding • It takes time for your body to build protection after any vaccination. COVID-19 vaccines that require 2 shots may not protect you until about two weeks after your second shot. For COVID-19 vaccines that require 1 shot, it takes about two weeks after vaccination for your body to build protection. your vaccination card and post it to Facebook, • After you are fully vaccinated, you may be able to start doing some things you had stopped doing because of the pandemic. Visit CDC’s website for the latest Instagram, or another recommendations. www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/vaccines. social media platform. Unfortunately, your card HEALTHCARE PROVIDER, PLEASE FILL IN THE INFORMATION BELOW: has your full name and birthday on it, as well as If your temperature is °F or °C or higher or if you have questions, call your healthcare provider. information about where Tell your healthcare provider about: you got your vaccine. If your social media privacy Healthcare provider phone number: settings aren’t set high, you may be giving valu- Medication (if needed): able information away for Take every hours as needed. anyone to use. (type and dose or amount) Share safely on social media: If you want to post about your vaccine, there are safer ways to do it. You can share a photo of your vaccine sticker or cdc.gov/coronavirus set a frame around your pro le picture. CS 323212-A 03/09/2021 The Aging Mastery® Starter Kit Has Arrived!
This no-cost kit will help you stay engaged in e are proud to partner This wellnessno-cost kit activities. will help you It is stay a self-directed version W with the National engagedof the in inwellness-person activities. Aging Mastery® The kit classes Council on Aging is for adults over sixty, and includes the ThisAging nodeveloped- costMastery® kit will by Playbook,help the you National stay two engaged DVDs, Council andin on Aging. wellness activities. It is a self-directed version (NCOA) to offer you the otherThe componets kit is for to adults help you over age sixty, well. and includes the Aging Mastery® of the inAging-person Mastery® Aging Mastery® Playbook, classes two DVDs, and developed by the National Council on Aging. Starter Kit. Requestother your components kit today by to contacting help you age well. Legacy + Gratitude + TheALISA kit is LAMMERSfor adults over at sixty,715-537-6225 and includes, the [email protected] Mastery® Playbook, two DVDs, and Purpose Mindfulness other components to help you age well. The Starter Kit will or fillA limitedout a request number form of online kits are at available, inspire you to take www.adrcconnections.org/registrationsrecipients will be asked to participate in a short A limitedphone number survey. of kits Request are available, yours kit today by steps toward recipientsA five willweek be virtual asked toAMP participate Playbook in aClub short phone contactingsurvey. Request Peggy yours Schmidt kit today byat 715-537-6225 positive aging will begin Thursday, April 1 at 10:00 contactingor [email protected] Peggy Schmidt at 715-537-6225 . across six [email protected] 11:00 a.m. If you are interested. in meeting others by phone/computer to dimensions and Creativity + Health + You can pick one up with your Grab and Go help you build your Youdiscuss can pick topics one upin withthe book,your Grab and and share Go Learning Well-Being LunchyourLunch orprogress; we’ll ordeliver contactwe’ll it withdeliver Alisa your Lammers itMeals with on your to Meals on own playbook for WheelsregisterWheels or grocerytoday! or delivery. grocery Stay delivery. well! Stay well! aging well. Each dimension has specific guideposts, or Connections + Finances + actions, that you are Community Future Planning encouraged to incorporate in your daily life. Page 8 | APRIL 2021 FOCUS FOR LIFE
NEWS FOR FOCUS FOR LIFE READERS April is National Hearing Aid Cancer Control Assistance Month Telecommunications Assistance Program Hearing Aid Assistance (TAP HAA) Submitted by Anne Bethke Description: Disability Benefit Specialist TAP HAA is an additional TAP benefit option available to consumers to provide funding towards the purchase of new hearing aids to increase the ef- source: national cancer institute ficiency and use of telecommunications devices for distance communications by people who are Deaf or severely hard of hearing. TAP HAA can provide up Since 1938, the President of the United States has proclaimed April as Na- to $250 per hearing aid or $500 per pair of hearing aids per person. tional Cancer Control Month. This month is dedicated to raising awareness Eligibility: for cancer prevention and treatment throughout the US. For many years, the • Must be a Wisconsin resident death tolls from cancer have steadily declined, due in part • Meet income eligibility guidelines to better education and heightened awareness about how • Submit completed application materials to prevent certain types of cancer, recognize the signs and • Can apply once every three (3) years symptoms of cancer, and how to seek proper treatment. • Not receiving medical assistance like BadgerCare Plus or Medicaid Prevention Application materials needed: Among the many methods of prevention, screening is one • A completed application F-02743 of the most effective ways to detect pre-cancerous cells and • A completed hearing loss certificate F-22554 provide early treatment. Some of the most easily screened • A copy of the quote to purchase hearing aids noting T-coil program included cancers include: Purchasing through an approved Department of Health Services (DHS) vendor: • Breast Cancer: screening includes yearly mammograms • Certified audiologists Anne bethke for women ages 40 and older • Licensed hearing aid providers Vouchers: • Cervical Cancer: screening includes Pap tests at least every 3 years for TAP will send a voucher to the applicant or their representative to redeem with women ages 21 and older a qualified DHS vendor when you are paying for the ordered hearing aid(s). The vendors will invoice DHS for the applicable voucher amount. • Colon and Rectal Cancer: screening includes yearly colonoscopies for men and women age 50 and older What’s not covered? • Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids • Mail-order hearing aids In addition to screening, vaccinations are available to help treat and prevent • Personal sound amplification products (PSAP) like pocket talkers certain types of cancers. These cancer vaccinations work to prevent specific • Online testing infectious agents that cause or contribute to the development of cancer. Fol- • Battery replacements lowing are FDA approved cancer vaccines: • Hearing aid repairs • Non-certified or unlicensed providers • Guardasil or Ceravix: these vaccines are designed to protect women • Providers not approved or active as a vendor in the Department of Health against certain strains of the cancer causing human papilloma virus (HPV) Service’s accounts payable system • Covering costs associated with hearing exams, other clinical or office expens- • Hepatitis B Vaccine: this three-shot series given to children is designed es, or past purchase amounts to protect both men and women against the Hepatitis B virus, which can cause For more information or assistance, please contact Monica Smith, TAP liver cancer Program Coordinator at 608-267-7195 or [email protected] or visit the TAP website at https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/odhh/tap.htm. • Provenge: approved by the FDA in 2010, this vaccine helps to treat meta- static prostate cancer
Other clinical trials are being performed to help develop additional vaccines to treat more types of cancer. In conjunction with medical prevention, the most effective way to prevent some types of cancer involve these simple lifestyle changes: Need a Ride? 1. Don’t use tobacco products Non-Emergency Medical Transportation 2. Drink alcohol in moderation 3. Eat a healthy diet Rides to medical appointments will continue. We will continue to provide 4. Be physically active rides to medical appointments (called non-emergency medical transportation) 5. Avoid overexposure to UV rays during the COVID-19 pandemic. 6. Practice safe sex Please schedule rides with MTM as usual. If you think you have been Although cancer is one of the leading causes of death in the US, it is also exposed to COVID-19 and you have a fever or other symptoms, please call one of the most easily preventable. Making an effort to protect your body and your doctor to make sure you can be seen before you call MTM to schedule a utilizing the available resources can help prevent a future cancer diagnosis, or ride. When you call MTM to schedule a ride, be sure to tell them if you have even death. been exposed to COVID-19 or are feeling ill. In most cases, rides are being limited to one member and one driver at this time. Same-day rides to COVID-19 vaccine appointments Do you need a ride to a confirmed appointment to get the COVID-19 vaccine? You can schedule a ride with MTM as soon as you confirm you have WISCONSIN HOME ENERGY ASSISTANCE an appointment, even if it is the same day. Call MTM at 866-907-1493 (TTY 711). Please have the following information ready: PROGRAM (WHEAP) • Your ForwardHealth ID (found on your ForwardHealth card) What is WHEAP? It is a program that provides assistance for heating • The address of where you will get your vaccine costs, electric costs, and energy crisis situations. Please note: If you have a medical emergency, call 911 right away. WHEAP provides assistance to households across If you do not have a way to get to your medical appointment or you have a car the state to help lower the burdon incurred with and are able to drive yourself but cannot afford to pay for gas, you can get: monthly energy costs. • A ride. • Bus tickets. • Money for gas. How is it funded? Funded by Federal and State funds. Wisconsin’s non-emergency medical transportation manager, Medical Transportation Management (MTM), Inc., is required by federal law to pro- Wood, propane, natural gas, electricity, or fuel oil Eligible fuel types? vide the least costly type of ride based on your medical transportation needs. to heat your home. This could include bus tickets or gas for your car. WHo is EligiblE? Your household may be eligible for WHEAP If you cannot ride a bus and you are not able to use your own car, a ride with services based on a number of factors. However, the best type of vehicle based on your medical and transportation needs will be if the gross income for your household income scheduled. Rides may include a specialized medical vehicle or another type of falls into the guidelines below, you may qualify. vehicle. You may be required to share a ride with another rider during the trip to your appointment. Income Guidelines for the 2020-2021 Home Energy Program This applies if you are enrolled in one of the following programs: (October 1, 2020 - May 15, 2021) • BadgerCare Plus Household Members one Month Annual income • Wisconsin Medicaid 1...... $2,490.08 ...... $29,881 • Family Planning Only Services 2...... $3,256.33 ...... $39,076 • Medicaid Purchase Plan 3...... $4,022.50 ...... $48,270 • SSI Medicaid 4...... $4,788.67 ...... $57,464 • IRIS (Include, Respect, I Self-Direct) 5...... $5,554.83 ...... $66,658 • BadgerCare Plus Express Enrollment for Pregnant Women 6...... $6,321.00 ...... $75,852 • Tuberculosis-Related Medicaid 7...... $6,464.67 ...... $77,576 • Katie Beckett 8...... $6,608.33 ...... $79,300 • Care4Kids • Children Come First To apply please contact us! Washburn County • Wraparound Milwaukee Health & Human Services For services and resources available in Washburn County, contact Anna OR APPLY ONLINE @ Marie Brown, Information & Assistance Specialist at the Aging & Disability https://energybenefit.wi.gov CALL: 715-468-4747 Resource Center of Barron, Rusk & Washburn Counties Shell Lake location: 304 – 2nd St., P. O. Box 316, Shell Lake, WI 54871 All counties in the State of Wisconsin can be found at: Direct: (715) 635-4462 http://homeenergyplus.wi.gov/section.asp?linkid=119&locid-25 [email protected] Website: www.adrcconnections.org FOCUS FOR LIFE APRIL 2021 | PAGE 9
THE AGING AND DISABILITY RESOURCE CENTER TOOLS
Living Well The Aging and Disability Resource Center Presents Powerful Tools for Caregivers with Chronic Conditions
Six Weeks. The Aging and Disability Resource Center Presents Fifteen Hours. A Healthier You!Powerful Tools for Caregivers
Living Well is for adults of all ages with one or more ongoing health problems. It’s a hands-on opportunity to discover solutions for your life and your health concerns.
Build confi dence with • Short-term goal setting Are You a Caregiver? • Relaxation techniques AreThis workshop You gives caregivers a Caregiver?Powerful Tools for Caregivers is This program is for you if you: • Partnering with your health care tools to: a six-week workshop that teaches Help someone with medication providers Reduce stress, guilt and anger you how to care for yourself This workshop gives caregivers tools to: Powerful Tools forGrocery Caregivers shop for or is with a six-week • Fitness, exercise and fun Set goals and problem solve while caring for others. By taking someone • Manage Reduce caregiving Stress, transitions guilt and angerbetter care of your ownworkshop physical, that teachesGo along toyou medical how to care for • Set goals and problem solveemotional and financialyourself needs, while caring for others. By taking Chronic condition includes: Make tough decisions appointments • Communicate Manage caregiving effectively withtransitions you become a betterbetter caregiver. care of your Manage own household physical, chores emo- • Asthma • others Make involved tough with decisions care tional and fi nancial needs, you become a • Depression • Communicate effectively with others better caregiver. • Diabetes Powerful involved withTools care for Caregivers • Heart Disease Thursdays, June 10– July 15 This program is for you if you can: ...and many others 9:30 a.m.—11:00 a.m. • Help someone with medication
Virtual via Google Meets • Grocery shop for or with someone Mondays, April 5 - May 10, 2021 • Go along to medial appointments
1:30 - 4:00 p.m. Are You a RegistrationCaregiver? is required by June 1; suggested donation is• $10. Manage household chores To register or for more information, contact Alisa Lammers at Virtual - connect via computer/tabletThis workshop715 gives-537 caregivers-6225 or [email protected] Powerful Tools for Caregivers , or visit is This program is for you if you: www.adrcconnections.org. Loaner tablets & training available. The ADRC cannot endorse or recommend tools to: a six-week workshop that teaches Help anysomeone organization, with product, medication or service . Scholarships may be available. Participants need the ability to connect Reduce by stress,Powerful guilt and anger you how Tools to care for yourself for Caregivers Grocery shop for or with WiFi or internet with a computer, tablet Set or goals and problem solve while caring for others. By taking someone smart phone that has a camera and micro- Manage caregiving transitions better care of your own physical, Go along to medical phone. Make toughThursdays, decisions Juneemotional 10 - and July financial 15 needs, appointments Communicate9:30 effectively a.m. with - 11:00you becomea.m. a better caregiver. Manage household chores Registration is required; others involved with care deadline to register 03/26/21 Suggested donation is $10 PowerfulVirtual Tools via for Google Caregivers Meets To register or for more Thursdays, June 10– July 15 information, contact Alisa Lammers at Registration is required by June 1; suggested 9:30 a.m.—11:00 a.m. donation is $10. 715-537-6225 or [email protected], Virtual via Google Meets or visit www.adrcconnections.org. To register or for more
Loaner tablets & training available. Registrationinformation, is required by contactJune 1; suggested Alisa Lammers donation at is $10. Scholarships may be available. To register or715-537-6225 for more information, or [email protected], contact Alisa Lammers at 715-537-6225or or visit [email protected] www.adrcconnections.org. , or visit The ADRC cannot endorse or recommendwww.adrcconnections.org Loaner tablets. Loaner & training tablets available. & training available. The ADRC cannot endorse or recommend any organization, product, or service . any organization, product, or service. ScholarshipsScholarships may be available. may be available. Virtual Dementia Education Programs SERVING NORTHWEST WISCONSIN - APRIL 2021
DEMENTIA 101 BOOST YOUR BRAIN AND DEMENTIA LIVE VIRTUAL Wednesday, April 7th, 11:00 a.m. - noon MEMORY EXPERIENCE Trisha Witham, www.adrcconnections.org Wednesdays, April 17th - May 26th Wednesday, April 14th, 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. 715-537-6225 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. Carrie Myers, [email protected] Amy Luther/Kim Bauer, 877-485-2372 DEMENTIA FRIENDS INFORMATION [email protected] SESSION 715-273-6780 MEMORY CAFÉ TIME TRAVELER Wednesday, April 7th, noon - 1:00 p.m. SERIES Natalie Schmaltz AMBIGUOUS LOSS AND GRIEF 2nd Tuesday of the Month, April 13th [email protected] IN DEMENTIA 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. Friday, April 16th, 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. Lisa Wells/Carla Berscheit Tuesday, April13th, 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. Trisha Witham, www.adrcconnections.org www.adrcevents.org Trisha Witham, www.adrcconnections.org 715-537-6225 715-839-4735 715-537-6225 ASK A DEMENTIA CARE SIX PILLARS OF CAREGIVER POWERFUL TOOLS FOR SPECIALIST WELLNESS CAREGIVERS Monday, April 19th, 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. Thursday, April 29th, 3:00 - 4:30 p.m. Mondays, April 19th - May 17th Lisa Wells/Carla Berscheit Trisha Witham, www.adrcconnections.org 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. www.adrcevents.org 715-537-6225 Carrie Myers, [email protected] 715-839-4735 877-485-2372 Wednesday, April 12th, 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. Mondays, April 19th - May 24th Natalie Schmaltz 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. [email protected] Kim Bauer, [email protected] 715-381-4411
Coordinated by the Dementia Care Specialists serving Ashland, Barron, Bay eld, Bu alo, Burnett, Chippewa, Douglas, Dunn, Eau Claire, Iron, Pepin, Polk, Price, Rusk, Sawyer, St. Croix, Trempealeau, Washburn Counties PAGE 10 | APRIL 2021 FOCUS FOR LIFE
SERVICES DIRECTORY
Your FULL SERVICE Pharmacy Department A NOT FOR PROFIT 501(C) 3 SKILLED NURSING FACILITY Glenview Assisted Living Available at the A locAl, privAte, non-profit orgAnizAtion PHARMACY 201 glenview lane, Shell lake, Wi 54871 • FREE Blood PREssuRE scREEnings
Angela, Pharmacist • VAccinEs • Private apartments and/or units, all with bathrooms • LiQuiD Rx FLAVORing • 24 Hour Staff • RN Medication Management • DRiVE-uP • Outstanding Environment, to include meals, activities, housekeeping, laundry, and on-site beauty shop economart • Choice with Dignity LONG TERM SENIOR LIVING • SHORT TERM REHABITALITION 700 S. River St., Spooner, WI Call now for your personal tour • 715-468-4255 RESPITE AND HOSPICE or for more information, log onto our website: Pharmacy Direct: 715.635.8785 510 1st St., Spooner • 715-635-1415 M-F 9:30 am - 6:00 pm www.mapleridgecarecenter.org www.th-glenview.org
DAILY Affordable - Senior Citizen Housing SPECIALS ~ Now Taking Applications ~ Restorative, Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner • Rent is 30% of mn BAR FAMILY DINING monthly adjusted Rehabilitation, Monday ...... BBQ Ribs income mn Tuesday ...... Seafood Specials • Air Conditioning Dignified Living Wednesday ...... Spaghetti & Meatballs • Utilities Included Thursday ...... BBQ Ribs • Community Room Friday ...... Fish Fry • Appliances • Indoor Mail Delivery Saturday ...... Steak & Tail & BBQ Ribs • In House Therapy: • Laundry Facilities Sunday ...... 16 oz. Prime Rib Physical ~ Occupational - Speech PLUS FULL MENU MINONG ~ ACORN APARTMENTS 24/7 Skilled Nursing Care • Activity Program & CARRY OUT • Medicare, Medicaid, Managed Care and Private Pay AVAILABLE A Great Place to Call Home • Certified - 50 Beds Trego, WI CCB Housing Management - Mark Adamak • Individualized & Specialized Care 1310 N. Wisconsin Ave., Rice Lake, WI 54869 715-635-3259 1-888-636-2366 • ccbhousing.org 802 E. County Hwy B • Shell Lake, WI • 715-468-7292
Need An Extra Lift? SPOONER FreshEVERY DAY! DELI • BAKERY • RESTAURANT RecLineR FUNERAL HOME 7 Days A Week Lift chaiRs BRATLEY-NELSON FUNERAL HOMES BREAKFAST Served 7 am - 11:30 am Check Out Our Free Cup of Coffee with Refi ll CREMATORY with Purchase of Breakfast Special! starting $ 95 & MADE TO at LUNCH SPECIALS Served 10:30 am - 2 pm 799 ORDER MENU DINNER SPECIALS Served 4 pm - 6 pm 715-635-8919 Deli Direct: DELI HOURS: 7 AM - 7 PM 715-635-7700 DELI RESTAURANT HOURS: Bush & Gilles 306 RUSK STREET Mon. - Sat. 7 am - 7 pm • Sun. 7 am - 6 pm FURNITURE SPOONER SHOP SMART • SHOP ECONOMART Beaverbrook Ave. • Spooner, WI • 715-635-9646 economart OTHER LOCATIONS: www.bratley-nelsonchapels.com Since OPEN 24 HOURS Cameron • Ladysmith • Rice Lake Cedar Mall 1937 700 S. River St., Spooner, WI • 715-635-2836 INDIANHEAD RED CROSS PHARMACY MEDICAL CENTER Shell Lake Caring for you and and HOME HEALTH AGENCY about you. Pharmacy “Your Prescription Caring Is Specialists” Our Specialty Your Full Service Pharmacy We Accept Open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. FREE Medicare Monday - Friday Advantage Plans IN TOWN Saturday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. DElIvERY Closed Sundays Located In IMC Spooner & Holidays 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. 113 4th Ave., Shell Lake Shell lake DOWNTOWN SPOONER 113 4TH AVE., SHELL LAKE, WI 715-468-7800 715-635-2117 HOSPITAL 715-468-7833 | SHELL LAKE CLINIC 715-468-2711 M-F 8:30-5 • Sat. 9-Noon
Target this important segment of Providing Compassionate WEBSTER Washburn County’s population End of Life Care For Over 29 Years Health Center with your advertising message. Let the area’s Wherever You Call Home St. Croix Regional Medical Center senior residents know you are concerned FOR AN APPOINTMENT about them and CALL want their 800-828-3627 business.
~ 7456 Main St W Webster, WI 54893 Contact Michelle at 715.939.9036 For more information please call for your personalized advertising plan. 715-635-9077 www.scrmc.org www.regionalhospice.org PAGE 4 | FRIDAY, MARCH 26, 2021 WEEKENDER NORTH
NEWS FOR FOCUS FOR LIFE READERS
Expert’s Tip: Seed Starting Respect your elders REPORT ABUSE
Elder Abuse can be verbal, physical, emotional, sexual or financial. It can also be intentional or unintentional neglect. Unfortunately, Elder Abuse Patti Nagai is a growing problem in Wisconsin, negatively Horticulture Educator, Racine Co. UW-Extension impacting the lives of our senior citizens and their families. published on 2015-03-05 by mike maddox In fact, Wisconsin’s population of seniors 65 and older is projected to increase by more than 70% in It is not too early to plant! We sowed pansy, geranium, aster, canna, and other flower seeds in our Green the next 20 years. That’s why all Wisconsinites share Works greenhouse in the past 3 weeks. Herbs and cool season vegetables are next, and it won’t be long the responsibility to help protect our senior citizens before we start seeding warm season vegetables. by recognizing and reporting any signs of Elder Cool season vegetables like cabbage, kohlrabi, spinach, and mustard can be started indoors if you have a Abuse. cool space in which to grow them. An outdoor cold frame is useful for many cool season plants. Once the If you feel that your are a victum of Elder Abuse seedlings are growing they can be moved into the protected cold frame on days when the temperatures are or you believe it has been inflicted upon someone above freezing. The cold frame is covered with a clear glass or plastic lid that lets light in, and the tempera- you know or love, REPORT IT! ture at seedling level is ideally in the 40 to 55-degree range, perfect for those cool season crops. Call the Wisconsin Elder Abuse Hotline Whether flowers, vegetables, or herbs, consider these factors before investing in planting seeds: 1-833-586-0107 1. Read the seed packet and the description of the seeding requirements! The information you need for a or visit ReportElderAbuseWI.org successful planting should be on the back of the package. It will tell you how long germination takes, how long till ready to transplant, and what, if any special conditions are needed. Read carefully; some seeds re- quire light to germinate and should not be covered with soil. Others require darkness, and may germinate better covered with foil instead of clear plastic during that early germination stage (remove, of course, as soon as any signs of seedlings appear!) The Importance 2. Use clean containers and clean soilless germination mix. Germination mix (on right in photo at right) is finer than regular soil mix (on left in photo at right), and gives better seed to soil contact. It is also light and well-drained which helps keep roots healthy. of Home 3. Drainage is important, the germination mix should be moist, but not soppy wet! Drying out during germination is deadly, keep the mix moist continuously. A layer of clear plastic over the top of the con- tainer can help keep the moisture in, or you can mist the top of the soil several times a day. Some seeds will germinate in 3 days; others may take 3 weeks. 4. Many seeds germinate well with bottom heat, but once germinated most appreciate and grow better with fluctuating day and night temperatures, so turn off those heaters. Cool season flowers and vegetable will develop better if you can keep the seedlings from getting too warm. Try to keep them in that 50 to 60 degree range during the day, cooler at night. Patti Nagai, Racine County UW-Extension Horticulture Educator (retired) For many of us, our home is our biggest invest- 5. Bright light from a window is great, but seedlings need really bright light to develop healthy, thick ment. It also tends to be our most important pos- stems and proper growth. Consider installing a bank of fluorescent lights on a pulley so the lights can be session; according to the “It’s Not Just Stuff” survey lowered to just a few inches above the developing seedlings. If you are into new technology, check out the conducted by Allstate in 2016, 62% of Americans new LED light systems designed for growing plants. would rank their home as “Very Important” to 6. Set up a fan to blow on your seedlings. This helps protect the delicate seedlings from damping off, a them, and homes were found to be the most impor- fungal disease that attacks the new stems at the soil level. The movement also triggers an amazing series tant possession of respondents overall. Now that of molecular events in the developing plant resulting in production of structural proteins; these proteins we are officially into spring, it’s time to get to work thicken the cell walls and give the plants a stronger stem. Many commercial tomato and pepper seedling taking care of our home and doing those jobs that producers use brushing to toughen their plants. You can simulate this by gently running your hands over winter prevented us from doing. Start with these the tops of the seedlings. And that just feels good, so do it frequently! five home maintenance tips to keep your home in There may be snow on the ground, but it is time to start thinking about gardening, and seed starting is a good shape! great way to get that gardening fix. But take the time to plan out your seeding so you have the best success • Inspect your roof. Your roof is your home’s first possible for your efforts. line of defense against water damage, and it’s better Some seeds will germinate in 3 days; others may take 3 weeks. to address problems before the next storm hits. Take notes of possible signs of damage, sagging, and aging. • Clean your gutters. Gutters protect your home by directing rain away, and when they get clogged it can open your home to water damage. World Autism Month • Clean or replace HVAC filters. A dirty filter forces your heat, ventilation, and air-conditioning system to work harder. A dirty filter will also circulate dust and allergens through your home. • Clean your dryer vent. Not all of your lint will get caught in the lint trap; some can make its way into the dryer vent and pose a fire risk. A clean vent will also reduce the time your dryer has to run, saving you money. • Replace the batteries in your smoke detectors. You never know when you’ll need them; hope- fully it’s never, but sometimes it can be a matter of The fourteenth annual World Autism Awareness Day is April 2, 2021. life or death. Take the time to change the batteries https://www.autismspeaks.org while you’re addressing other maintenance on your home. Joined by the international community, hundreds of thousands of landmarks, buildings, homes and com- It’s important to keep up with maintenance, but munities around the world come together on April 2, Autism Awareness Day, to Light It Up Blue in recog- that can get more difficult to do as we get older. nition of people with autism and those who love and support them. There will inevitably be times when a major job Autism-friendly events and educational activities take place all month, aiming to increase understanding simply has to be done; if your home needs repairs and acceptance of people with autism, foster worldwide support and inspire a kinder, more inclusive world. or upgrades and you are a low-income homeowner Join us for World Autism Awareness Month to help us spread kindness and autism awareness! struggling to keep up for any number of reasons, Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by Wild Rivers Habitat for Humanity has several challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication. According to the programs to help you improve and maintain your Centers for Disease Control, autism affects an estimated 1 in 54 children in the United States today. home. If you are looking for assistance making a We know that there is not one autism but many subtypes, most influenced by a combination of genetic home repair, consider applying for their Home and environmental factors. Because autism is a spectrum disorder, each person with autism has a distinct Repair program. Repairs they can help you with in- set of strengths and challenges. The ways in which people with autism learn, think and problem-solve can clude porch and deck, window, roof, gutter, siding range from highly skilled to severely challenged. Some people with ASD may require significant support in and trim, and wheelchair ramp and railing repair or their daily lives, while others may need less support and, in some cases, live entirely independently. installation. If you are looking to go green this year, Several factors may influence the development of autism, and it is often accompanied by sensory sensitiv- then their new Home Energy Efficiency program ities and medical issues such as gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, seizures or sleep disorders, as well as mental might be for you! Currently through the program, health challenges such as anxiety, depression and attention issues. Wild Rivers is offering income qualified home- Signs of autism usually appear by age 2 or 3. Some associated development delays can appear even earlier, owners the opportunity to replace their current and often, it can be diagnosed as early as 18 months. Research shows that early intervention leads to posi- thermostat with a new energy-efficient Google Nest tive outcomes later in life for people with autism. thermostat at no charge. For more information on * In 2013, the American Psychiatric Association merged four distinct autism diagnoses into one umbrella di- their programs including applications, visit www. agnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). They included autistic disorder, childhood disintegrative disor- wildrivershabitat.org or call the Wild Rivers Habitat der, pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) and Asperger syndrome. office at 715-939-1390. WEEKENDER NORTH FRIDAY, MARCH 26, 2021 | PAGE 5
NEWS FOR FOCUS FOR LIFE READERS Be prepared for National Librarian Day power outages
https://www.calendarr.com/united-states/national-librarian-day/
National Librarian Day, also known as National Library Workers Day, is celebrated on the Tuesday of National Library Week. National Library Week is an annual event held in April, usually falling within the first two weeks of the month. On National Librarian Day we honor the library workers that keep our libraries in order and contribute to the enrichment of our communities every day. In 2021, National Librarian Day falls on April 6. History of National Librarian Day To know the history of this holiday, we must look into the origins of National Library Week. The event is Data & Picture obtained from Barron Electric & sponsored by the American Library Association (ALA) and was first celebrated in April of 1958. However, ReadyWI the ALA only introduced National Librarian Day in 2004, to campaign for better benefits and salaries for library staff, which had been stagnant for a long time. The day continues to promote and raise support for · When outside, stay away from downed power fair wages for library workers, but it is also an opportunity to celebrate the work that they do and educate lines. A power line doesn’t have to sparking or arc- the community on what goes into the job of being a librarian. ing to energized and dangerous. Many people don’t realize the hard work that goes into becoming a librarian. Library workers are usu- · Lines that appear to be “dead” can become ener- ally trained in Library Science and must know how to work with complex cataloging systems to organize gized as crews work to restore power or sometimes the books and materials in a library. This means that librarians usually have an amazing memory, and can from improper us of emergency generators. As- often not only tell you where a book is without looking into the system, they can also tell you where to get sume all low and downed lines are energized and the perfect material for whatever research you’re doing. dangerous. If you see a downed or sagging line, Librarians are also in charge of ordering the books for their library, organizing events, activities, and contact your utility. talks that take place in libraries, and dealing with all the people that come into the library every day. · Never drive over a downed line, as snagging a Why are Libraries and Librarians Important? line could pull down a pole or other equipment and Libraries date all the way back to ancient Rome and Egypt, where they were sources of knowledge and cause other hazards. provided a forum for intellectual discussions. · Be careful approaching intersections where traf- Those two fundamental purposes of a library have not changed much. Libraries house thousands of fic and crossing lights may be out. books, magazines, microfiches, and other media materials, and anyone doing research on a specific topic · If you plan to use a generator, know how to is sure to find it in a library. Libraries are also usually the only place, apart from museums, where you can operate it safely. find more information on your local history, by looking at records on books and newspapers of whatever · Always keep a battery-powered radio or TV, era you’re interested in. flashlights, and a supply of fresh batteries. Also, Libraries are also the place of many events for people of all ages, such as seminars, lectures, workshops, have water, blankets, and non-perishable food. and book clubs. A place where anyone can come to learn and exchange information and ideas with like- · Keep your electronics safe by unplugging then minded people. when the power goes out. Leave on lamp or switch All of this is only possible because of Librarians. They are the people that keep libraries running smooth- on as a signal for when your power returns. ly, and are always willing to help anyone with their vast knowledge. · Never use a charcoal grill or generator inside How to Celebrate National Librarian Day the home for heat or cooking purposes as they both On this day, the American Library Association, local schools, and community organizations, host events give off deadly carbon monoxide gas when in use. in honor of their library workers. These can be symbolic award ceremonies, lunches to celebrate library · If you live with a child or elderly person, you staff, and fundraisers for the libraries. may need to take them somewhere with power, so If you are a regular visitor at your local library don’t forget to drop by today to thank the library workers, they can stay warm. Keep warm by staying inside maybe bring them a card and flowers, or some home baked goods. You can also offer them a hand by ask- and dressing warmly in layered clothing. ing if the library needs any book donations or any volunteers. Weather Spotters Needed Across the Northland
National Weather Service Duluth, MN 5027 Miller Trunk Highway Duluth, MN 55811
National Weather Service Offers Free SKYWARN Spotter Classes
DULUTH, MN (March 2, 2021) — The National Weather Service (NWS) in Duluth, MN, will be offering annual Skywarn Spotter Training classes this spring to recruit weather spotters! Volunteers who can commit to attending a class serve a vital need for the National Weather Service to be the normal Basic course and a special Advanced class contact Warning Coordination Meteorologist Joe eyes and ears for NWS, providing critical on-the- for those wanting to learn more about the science Moore at email [email protected] . ground reporting of severe weather. These reports of severe thunderstorms and tornadoes. Current About the National Weather Service Duluth, MN in turn help the NWS deliver accurate and timely spotters are requested to attend the class at least office warnings. Classes cover thunderstorm safety, the every three years. (For those who cannot attend a The mission of the National Weather Service is to science of thunderstorms, different types of cloud live class, a recorded version is also available on provide weather, water, and climate data, formations and what they mean, and how the National Weather Service website.) forecasts and warnings for the protection of life spotters can get their reports to the National Skywarn is a cooperative effort between the Na- and property and enhancement of the national Weather Service. The class is great for anyone who tional Weather Service, local emergency economy. The National Weather Service Forecast wants to learn more about weather, and no weath- management, and private citizens who volunteer Office in Duluth, MN, is one of 122 field offices er background is necessary to attend the class. their time to attend free classes and send their that provide forecasts and warnings across the For 2021, all classes will be offered in a virtual weather reports to the National Weather Service. United States. NWS Duluth serves 18 counties across format throughout the month of April, with a variety Trained spotters play an important role by northeast Minnesota and northwest Wisconsin of days and times offered to accommodate differ- providing severe weather reports which help to and western Lake Superior. The office is open ent schedules. Classes are completely free and last improve the quality of severe weather warnings 24/7/365 with a dedicated team of meteorologists about an hour and a half. Back by popular de- issued. and support staff providing a continuous weather mand, the National Weather Service will offer both The full class schedule is available online at weath- watch across the Northland. its er.gov/dlh/skywarn . For more information,