may 2011
DESCRIPTION
Boomers and Their Pets, Creating Outdoor Rooms, Our Aging Eyes, Insurance Choices, Strut Your MuttTRANSCRIPT
May 2010
MAGAZINE.COM
BOOMERS ANDTHEIR PETSA 46 BILLION DOLLAR INDUSTRY
OUTDOOR LIVINGCREATING GARDEN ROOMS
OUR AGING EYES
Turning 65 Means More Choices for Boomers Comparing Medicare, Employer Healthcare Plans
Strut Your MuttMore than five million beautiful, healthy animals are euthanized in shelters every year—your support helps
Mark and Beth Crim with Cruizer and Jet
04 HOME | LIFESTYLE 06 Outdoor Living | “Outdoor Garden Room”.
The very words conjure up images of comfort, romance and a sense of intimacy.
09 Utah Boomers Join the Gray Head Revolution
08 HEALTH | FITNESS Our Aging Eyes | As we age, so do our eyes. You’ve
probably noticed your vision has changed and it’s more difficult to read, see in low light, distinguish colors, and adapt to glare
16 DOLLARS | SENSE More Choices for Boomers:
Comparing Medicare, Employer Healthcare Plans
20 ARTS | ENTERTAINMENT 20 Strut Your Mutt | On May 21st over 2000 dogs
will bring their humans to the event they’ve waited for all year...the annual Strut Your Mutt. There, they will meet up with old friends, and make new ones.
22 Aggie, Me and Strut Your Mutt | One Mutt’s
Experience.
Features03 | FROM THE EDITOR22 | RESOURCES
12Boomers and Their Pets | Of 1,049 boomers sur-veyed by MainStay Investments, fifty-one percent said pet care is a basic need. That basic need equates to 46 billion dollars that we spend on our pets annu-ally, and that’s just in the United States.
Next Month:Cover Story | How Does Your Garden Grow?
Home and Lifestyle | Outdoor Cooking.
Health and Fitness | Skeletal System
Arts and Entertainment | Utah Arts Festival | Gone Fishin’
May 2011 | 3
Editorial
Hello Everyone.
I’m happy to report that each month our readership
increases dramatically. This is heartening and gives us
the impetus to continue on. The online publishing software (Issuu) allows
you to zoom in, zoom out and jump from page to page. We are also able
to provide links to the websites of our advertisers and authors. You may
also download and print the magazine, if paper is your choice of reading
medium. If you are having trouble reading online or mastering the page
turning software, please let us know.
This issue was so fun to do. One thing about boomers is they love their
pets. It wasn’t at all difficult to have them tell us their stories. We just had
to say, “Tell us about your pet,” and the rest was history. All we had to do
was type very fast.
Also, read the article on outdoor garden rooms. It is truly inspiring. No
sooner than I had read it and I was at my local home store, ready to cre-
ate my own little backyard getaway. I can attest that there is nothing like
rising very early in the morning and taking your hot beverage and a good
book and curling up outside. The birds sing, the breeze blows and all is
right with the world. Hopefully, as you read this the weather is lounge
ready.
Until next month,
Publisher .................. Utah Boomers Magazine, LLC
Managing Editor ........................................ Teresa Glenn
Contributing Writers ........................Laurie VanZandt
Barb Shelley
Jana Cunningham
Adrienne Muralidharan
Ken Passarella
Photography .................................................... Mark Crim
shutterstock.com
Distribution ................................................................Online
Advertising Saleswww.utahboomersmagazine.com/advertising
Utah Boomers Magazine is published monthly for the baby boomer population of Utah. The information contained in this publication may be contributed by independent writers and does not necessarily reflect the views of Utah Boomers management. Copying or electronic distribution of any content within this publication is strictly prohibited without the written permis-sion of Baby Boomers Magazine and the author. For reprint permission, editorial submissions or comments email [email protected].
Questions and suggestions:[email protected]
Utah Boomers Magazine145 W. Crystal Ave.
Salt Lake City, Utah 84115 Like Us On
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“Outdoor Garden Room”. The very words conjure up images of comfort, romance and a sense of intimacy. Whether its an elaborate outdoor kitchen with the latest appliances and materi-als, or a quiet reading nook carved into an old hedge, outdoor living ‘rooms’ provide a unique opportunity to connect with nature and turn a yard into a garden.
For many homeowners, their yard is the largest unused or underused area of their home; with many going into their yards only to mow the lawn. To maximize enjoyment of the space, the yard can be carved into areas with specific uses in mind. Considerable square footage can be added to the liveable area of your home by including gardens for outdoor living. Rooms can be created to provide a welcoming entry to a home, for alfresco dining, casual entertaining, imaginative children’s play areas, reading, and relaxing or napping. Generally an outdoor room consists of a floor, whether lawn, concrete, stone, or gravel; walls created by the home itself, plantings, trellises,
drystack stone walls or other structures; and a ceiling consisting of an arbor or pergola, a shade tree, or an umbrella for exam-ple. The spaces can be grand or intimate; simple or elaborate, provide for large scale entertaining or an intimate space for one, and allow for more time to enjoy the sun and outdoors.
These outdoor rooms can be decorated much as the inside of your home would be, extending the comfort and livability of the the indoors to the outdoors. Mood evoking lighting, a fire pit, fireplace or candles, trickling water features, comfortable seating and pillows, garden art or sculptures, container gardens, and fragrant plantings all will create a personalized space that you will want to be in, that you will want to share.
A few simple ideas will help in the creation of successful gar-den rooms. To recreate the intimate feeling of a living room, ensure that seating is set up to encourage conversation and interaction by placing pieces facing towards one another. Estab-lish enclosure to separate the desired area from the surrounding
OUTDOOR LIVING
May 2011 | 5
garden with structures, vines, or other plantings. Consideration should be made as to the anticipated privacy of the activity. A meditation spot or reading nook will want to be more private than an area for entertaining. Use materials that are meant to be outside and can withstand sudden changes in weather, includ-ing fabrics, artwork, rugs and container plantings. If a con-tainer or water feature is not weather proof, be sure and bring it inside when damaging frost is likely. Hardscape materials such as those used for flooring or countertops should also be chosen for their ability to withstand sub-freezing temperatures. As with a room in the home, the size of an open air room to
be created should match the intended use of the space.
Design is often defined as the combination of aesthetics with functionality. This is important to remember as the idea of a room is implemented. As with any artistic creation, a garden room should be planned using the elements and principals of design. This include line, balance, contrast, harmony, texture, color and scale. While each ‘room’ in a garden can have its own personality and function, continuity should be maintained throughout the garden to keep the design cohesive. Continu-
ity can be achieved through repetition of a common plant or other material used through out the garden, the use of a color palette, or integration of a style. Keep in mind that color can influence the mood of the area, as well as make a space seem larger or smaller.
The creation of an Outdoor Garden Room is possible in even the smallest of gardens. By keeping in mind the elements of floor, walls, ceiling, usage or functionality, and personal detail, some of the most creative and inviting outdoor spaces can
6 |6 |
exist in a minimal area. Medium to large gardens can allow for the existence of several garden rooms, linked together or scat-tered across the site.
The essential ingredient in a successful garden room—one that will enjoyed over and over again—is an elusive one. It is the feeling and spirit of the place to be created. Gardens have the ability to evoke strong emotions in us. By creating a space that speaks to you, makes you feel comfortable, and soothes your spirit, your investment will be returned to you many times over. A careful evaluation of the entire garden, the intended use of each space, and an awareness and understand-ing of what creates emotion on a personal level are key to creating a garden room that you will love to be in.
Laurie VanZandt is owner of The Ardent Gardener Landscape Design in Huntsville, Utah. A career in architecture has been invaluable in helping her spatially plan creative gardens. Her focus is on landcapes that mesh the needs of client, the architecture of the home, the surrounding area and are uniquely beautiful. Laurie has done projects thoughout the Wasatch Front and Park City. She can be reached at www.theardentgardener.net
Gas prices are going up, and fast. In the last several weeks, they have averaged $3.50 per gallon and are approaching $4 per gallon in some parts of the country. Here in Utah the prices are between $3.51-$3.59. According to quickfact.census.gov the Utah median household income for 2009 was $56,820. Compare that to the year you were born:
Gasoline AverageYear cost per gallon US Wages1946 .15 $2,5001947 .15 $2,8501948 .16 $2,9501949 .16 $2,9501950 .18 $3,2101951 .19 $3,5101952 .20 $3,8501953 .20 $4,0001954 .22 $4070 1955 .23 $4,1301956 .22 $4,4501957 .24 $4,5501958 .25 $4,6001959 .30 $5,0101960 .25 $5,1501961 .27 $5,3151962 .28 $5,5561963 .29 $5,8071964 .30 $6,000
www.thepeoplehistory.com
May 2011 | 7
A group of Utah boomers are part of a world-wide revolu-tion. We’re challenging the status quo, going counter culture just as we did in our youth with music, clothing, civil rights and Vietnam War protests. But this time, it’s about our right to age naturally.
From the time we were conceived, more than any generation before us, advertisers have used mass media to push products on us, but when it comes to hair dye, many of us are pushing back. Last July a half dozen Utah women joined with me to form the Salt Lake City Silver Sisters Club. We meet monthly to encourage each other to have the courage to be gray in a youth obsessed, hair dye world.
One of our members decided to stop dyeing her hair after being diagnosed with breast cancer. She did not want to put chemicals on her body anymore. Another Silver Sister refused to ever use hair dyes, even defying pressure from her husband who dyes the gray in his beard each month. She now has waist length pewter hair that represents another rebellion -- against the notion that older women aren’t supposed to have long hair. After 20 years of salon visits, I had a severe allergic reaction to hair dye – becoming ill in the salon – and have since learned that the Food and Drug Administration warns about the dan-gers of permanent hair dyes on its website.
When I made the decision to stop using hair color, I was at a loss of how to go about going gray. Using my search engine, I discovered just the support I needed in the book and website, Going Gray, Looking Great by Diana Lewis Jewell. We formed our Salt Lake City Silver Sisters club as outlined by Jewell, and soon after, a Silver Sisters Club formed in South Africa, with many more clubs popping up around the world.
Through our club, we have met women who are rebelling against the cost and time of keeping gray roots covered. One of our members reported her gray roots needed to be covered every three weeks at a cost of $2,000 a year. Another Silver Sister in her 50s had an epiphany and realized that she did not want to stay on the hair dye routine we call the gerbil wheel into her 70s and 80s. She cut her shoulder length hair short a year ago and has completed her transition to silver that peeks through a mane reflecting more brunette than gray.
Club members agree that showing your gray hair, doesn’t mean you have faded, or given up or lost your verve. Age truly is just a number, and allowing our hair to sprout out of our heads naturally is our way of showing the world our wisdom and our confidence and contentment with who we are as we step into the future.
The beauty industry has nothing to fear from us yet, for it is still a multi-billion dollar industry that relies heavily on hair dye sales, but through our example, we know we have made a dent in the assumption that baby boomers must dye their gray.
As we say in our meetings, it’s O.K. with us if others want to dye their hair. We just want to be accepted for our choice to be gray and to age naturally. And in that way, we are baby boom-ers doing it our way.
Barb Shelley is a public relations executive who lives in the Sugar House neighborhood of Salt Lake City. She heads up the Salt Lake City Silver Sisters Club, a social group for women who want to embrace their gray hair. She can be contacted at [email protected]. To learn more about going gray beautifully at any age, visit www.goinggraylooking-great.com.
Utah BoomersJoin the Gray
Head RevolutionBy Barb Shelley
8 |8 |
As we age, so do our eyes. You’ve probably noticed your vision has changed and it’s more diffi-
cult to read, see in low light, distinguish colors, adapt to glare, etc. Although common, these visual
changes should not be ignored because they could be signs of an eye disease such as macular
degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy or dry eye. With a yearly comprehensive
eye exam, your ophthalmologist can detect these problems early, so you can still live a full and
active life.
Our Aging Eyes
May 2011 | 9
Age-Related Macular DegenerationAge-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is the number one blinding eye condition in the United States for those 60 years and older affecting more than 1.5 million people. This chronic disease affects central vision, which is necessary for driving and reading. AMD is a painless, but progressive disease that may be slowed with proper treatment by your ophthalmologist.
Symptoms• Blurry spots• Blind spots• Distorted vision• Waviness in vision
Risk Factors• Smoking• High Blood pressure• Obesity• Family history • Gender (women are at greater risk)• Race (Caucasians are at greater risk)
Cataracts A Cataract is a clouding of the eye’s lens that causes loss of vision and affects most people after the age of 60. A cataract is created as protein in the eye clump together and clouds a small area of the lens. Cataracts are typically removed with surgery.
Symptoms• Blurry vision• Sensitivity to glare• Difficulty seeing at night• Increased nearsightedness• Double vision• Trouble reading fine print
Risk Factors• Diabetes• High alcohol use• Family history• High blood pressure• Obesity• Smoking
GlaucomaGlaucoma occurs when there is increased pressure in the eye and more fluid is produced than can be removed by the eye. This increase in pressure can cause permanent damage to the optic nerve, which transfers information from the eye to the brain. Treatment may include medication or surgery to relieve the pressure.
Symptoms• In beginning stages, there are no symptoms• Poor peripheral vision• Headaches
Risk Factors• Severe nearsightedness • Diabetics• Hypertension• Previous trauma to the eye• Long term steroid or cortisone users• Race (people of African or Mediterranean decent are at
higher risk) • Family history
Diabetic RetinopathyDiabetic retinopathy causes bleeding and swelling on the retina that can lead to permanent damage. Brought on by long-term diabetes, this disease may cause vision loss and blindness if left untreated. Diabetic retinopathy also increases the chances of other eye diseases such as cataracts and glau-coma. The best way to prevent the progression of this disease is to carefully manage your blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol.
Symptoms• Blurred vision• Floaters in vision
Risk Factors• Diabetes• Poor diet• Obesity
Dry EyeDry eye is a chronic condition resulting from insufficient production of tears or excessive production of tears. Without treatment, dry eye can cause eye infection, scarring and visual impairment. It’s typically treated with eye drops.
10 |
Symptoms• Scratchiness• Burning• Discomfort• Excessive tearing• Sensitivity to light
Risk Factors• Gender (females are more likely to experience dry eye)• Certain medications can cause dry eye (typically anti-de-
pressants or blood pressure medication) • A diet low in vitamin A and omega-3 fatty acids
The best way to prevent and treat all of the above visual prob-lems is early detection. Bala Ambati, M.D. recommends seeing your ophthalmologist once a year for a comprehensive dilated eye exam. The exam will include testing for all of the above problems and if an issue is found, you may undergo further testing and treatment.
“Many eye diseases don’t exhibit symptoms in the early stages, so an eye exam is the only way to detect them,” says Ambati, associate professor of ophthalmology and visual sciences at the University of Utah and director of corneal research for the John A. Moran Eye Center.
“On top of yearly exams, people 60 years of age and older
should consume a diet rich in nutrients especially zinc, lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamin C, vitamin E and beta-carotene. Taking these supplements combined with a diet rich in dark leafy greens, fruits and vegetables will also help keep your vision healthy,” adds Ambati.
If vision loss does occur, there are many resources available to continue and even improve your quality of life. Moran Eye Center social worker Julia Kleinschmidt, Ph.D., works with indi-viduals experiencing vision loss and provides resources to help ease the transition.
“There are all kinds of wonderful products available to assist those with visual impairments— different types of magnifica-tion products, large-type and talking books, large print remote controls, telephones and keyboards, talking watches and clocks and much, much more. For those who need it, there are also organizations that provide training in daily living skills, mobility, adaptable technology, crafts and woodshop. With the appropri-ate tools, training and attitude, a return to quality life is very achievable,” says Kleinschmidt.
Jana Cunningham is the Public Relations Specialist for the John A. Moran Eye Center in Salt Lake City, UT. The Moran Eye Center is committed to the goal that no person with a blinding condition, eye disease or visual impairment should be without hope, understanding and treatment. The Moran Eye Center is home to more than 50 faculty members, including one of the top retinal research teams in the world.
Mr. Bubble® Turns 50Is there a boomer around who didn’t bathe with Mr. Bubble? Created in 1960, Mr. Bubble® came in a boxed powdered bubble bath. In 1972, Mr. Bubble was introduced as a liquid. In 2008, Mr. Bubble was reformu-lated to create even more bubbles with a gentler clean. Follow us on facebook for a chance to win Mr. Bubble product.
The common eye sees only the outside of things, and judges by that, but the seeing eye pierces through and reads the heart and the soul, finding there capacities which the outside didn’t indi-cate or promise, and which the other kind couldn’t detect.
Mark Twain, Joan of Arc
In 1979 Randall J Olson, M.D. was the only member of the Division of Ophthalmology at the University of Utah. He had
a passion for research, teaching and serving every patient with empathy and care. Could Dr. Olson have imagined
that just 30 years later a world-class team of 30 ophthalmology specialists would treat 120,000+ patients each
year, and carry out nearly 7,000 surgeries? Or that his one-man department would have 58 Ph.D. research faculty
members? What Dr. Olson did know was that over the years, eye care treatments, therapies and technologies
would change, but his vision for the center would remain the same: “The Moran Eye Center is committed to the goal
that no person with a blinding condition, eye disease or visual impairment should be without hope, understanding
and treatment.” For more information on how you can help the Moran Eye Center in its vision for better care and cures,
call 801-585-9700. For an appointment with one of our world class ophthalmologists or optometrists, call 801-581-2352.
30 Years of Excellence—Serving,
Discovering, Teaching & Giving
Patient CareOur vision is YOUR
vision, providing world
class eye care every day.
ResearchThe driving desire of our
team is to find cures for
blinding eye conditions.
EducationTeaching the best new
eye care specialists so
future generations can
have better vision.
OutreachA 30-year tradition of
giving back to those less
fortunate; locally, nation-
ally, & internationally.
65 Mario Capecchi Dr., Salt Lake City, UT 84132 • www.MoranEyeCenter.org
Randall J Olson, M.D.CEO – Moran Eye Center
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In our house lives my husband, myself, and a little poodle named Gary. Gary is not our dog. My husband and I have never owned a dog, and yet our home never seems to be without one. Gary became the latest in a long line of doggy house guests when our son moved
to a place that didn’t allow pets. Gary has been with us for two years.
For a couple who doesn’t like dogs, doesn’t want a dog, and complains about having a dog, this little guy sure takes a lot of
our time. We take him for long walks, let him sit on our laps while we pleasure him with petting and massage, feed him, water him, and marvel at how smart he is. When shopping, we wonder what treat he would like best, and which harness will be most comfortable. Honestly—it’s exhausting.
When my son finally moved into a house that would allow pets, we couldn’t let him take Gary because we thought it would be just too tramatic…for the dog.
BOOMERS AND THEIR
PETS
May 2011 | 13
My husband and I are not alone. According to pet age.com, 67 percent of baby boomers own pets (many left behind by their children). That is nearly 51 million pets! And trust me, those 51 million pets are among the most spoiled out there.
Of 1,049 boomers surveyed by MainStay Investments, fifty-one percent said pet care is a basic need. That basic need equates to 46 billion dol-lars that we spend on our pets annually, and that’s just in the United States.
Beth and Mark Crim (cover) of Sandy, have two dogs, Jet and Cruizer—both robust labs. The Crim’s take the dogs with them on all their adventures. Jet and Cruiser go cross country skiing, canoeing, and hiking. Beth comments, “Labs love the water. We get great pleasure in watching them frolic in the snow and water. When we hike it is fun watching them explore new places.”
Not including vet bills, Beth and Mark spend about $80 per month on the needs of their dogs. They buy product for the dogs from the same places they shop for themselves: LL Bean, Cabelas, and REI.
When asked why she has dogs, Beth said, “I love dogs because they are pro-tectors, loyal companions and playful friends. They boost my spirit when I am down, like no other.”
In fact, Beth is right. Studies show that pets can decrease your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, triglyceride levels and feelings of loneliness. They also
increase your opportunities for exercise and outdoor activities and for socialization.
The Crims, like most boomers, like to travel. They take extended weekend trips throughout Utah. Because all of their outdoor activities include Jet and Cruizer, they only book accommodations
that allow pets.
With more discretionary income than any previous generation, boomers spend most on entertainment and pets. Hotels and other businesses are beginning to cater to these visitors by welcoming their pets.
At petswelcome.com you will find a wealth of pet travel information high-lighting specific pet-friendly locales and events, including beaches, parks, stores and other attractions, as well as valuable how-to travel advice and health tips. They have lists of hotels that will allow larger dogs and cats.
If according to several recent surveys, you plan to travel extensively in your retirement, you will face the dilemma of what to do with your dogs and cats when you travel without them.
In the Salt Lake area, you will find hun-dreds of doggy day cares and boarding kennels. According to Camp Bow Wow, 44% of their clientele are boomers. Of those 74% use boarding while vacation-ing (7% use boarding while traveling for work), 25% use daycare for work purposes, 29% use it simply so their dog can have fun. Most offer doggy cams
¨Many years ago Kathie Masich of West Jordan was faced with a disability that left her home bound for a few years. The total aloneness was overwhelming. It was suggested that she get a dog so she had a reason to get up in the morning.
“Being single, my dogs are my family. We have our routines, and they have strong personalities. It is like having children that cannot talk or who will never grow up. I know them and we have our own way of communicating. I have no doubt we have complete understanding of each other. They know and respond to my moods. They know and respond to the people who are important to me, and they sense those who aren’t and act guarded when they are around. We have a lot of fun. I laugh more with them than with most people.”
Since that first dog many years ago, Kathie has had the joy and the heartbreak of lov-ing and losing many dogs. After the death of each beloved pet, she has them cremat-ed—their ashes placed on her fireplace mantle. She has carefully planned for them and their living siblings in her will.
The difference between friends and pets is that friends we allow into our company, pets we allow into our solitude.
~Robert Brault, www.robertbrault.com
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that allow you to watch them throughout the day, providing you with a fix for your separation anxiety.
Parks and RecreationWhen you head into Utah parks, most have leash rules. It is im-portant to abide by these rules so we can continue to enjoy the parks with our pets. However, if you want to visit an off-leash park, you have many to choose from (see sidebar).
Feline FunOf course, we can’t forget the kitties. Baby boomers represent-ed nearly half of the cat owners in the American Pet Product Manufacturers Association Inc.s (APPMA) 2003-04 National Pet Owner Survey. The survey revealed that 62 percent of cat owners view their cats as children.
Cats attach to humans, and particularly women, as social part-ners, and it’s not just for the sake of obtaining food, according to the new research, which has been accepted for publication in the journal Behavioural Processes.
Janet Lynn of Salt Lake might be one cat short of being “that crazy cat lady”. She cohabitates with 4 cats (don’t ever use the word “own” when describing a relationship with a cat), Rocky, Oscar, Benny, and Toley.
“The difference between being a crazy cat lady and a cat lover”, Janet explains, “is the care provided for the cat. I make sure each cat is fed, groomed and has regular visits to the vet.”
Each of Janet’s cats have their unique personality.
Toley is a polydactyl (commonly called an Earnest Hemingway cat). Ploydactyls have 6 toes on each paw. Ernest Hemingway was given a six-toed cat by a ship’s captain and some of that cats descendants live at the Hemingway Home today.
Toley seems quite proud of his heritage and walks around like a runway model, one great big paw in front of the other.
Rocky wants to be held constantly. At one time Janet considered getting a baby carrier so she could carry him around and remain hands free.
Benny is like a watch dog, constantly watching Janet to make sure she is OK.
Oscar is skittish. He reminds Janet of Krammer on Seinfield, because he runs into a room and then comes to a complete and abrupt stop.
Janet loves her cats, but recommends that you should never own more cats than you can provide for. While cats are have and indepen-dent attitude, they are dependant on their
humans for their health and well being. It can be expensive. A recent well visit to the vet ended up in a $380.00 bill.
And so boomers, if you don’t already have one, you should seriously consider getting a pet. Whether it’s a dog, cat, bird or an iguana, a pet can be an amazing addition to your life. Unconditional love is something that we all need and want. You will enjoy better health, less depression, and if you get your pet from a shelter, it will save a life and yours!
Beth paddles while Jet and Cruizer enjoy a nice swim
Man is rated the highest animal, at least among all animals who returned the questionnaire.
-Robert Brault, www.robertbrault.com
Oscar
Toely
May 2011 | 15
PET DIARIESYou’ve probably seen this before, but it’s definitely worth repeating:
The Dog’s Diary
8:00 am Dog food! My favorite thing!
9:30 am A car ride! My favorite thing!
9:40 am A walk in the park! My favorite thing!
10:30 am Got rubbed and petted! My favorite thing!
12:00 pm Milk bones! My favorite thing!
1:00 pm Played in the yard! My favorite thing!
3:00 pm Wagged my tail! My favorite thing!
5:00 pm Dinner! My favorite thing!
7:00 pm Got to play ball! My favorite thing!
8:00 pm Wow! Watched TV with the people! My favorite thing!
11:00 pm Sleeping on the bed! My favorite thing!
The Cat’s Diary
DAY 752 My captors continue to taunt me with bizarre little dangling objects. They dine lavishly on fresh meat, while I am forced to eat dry cereal. The only thing that keeps me going is the hope of escape, and the mild satisfaction I get from shredding the occasional piece of furniture. Tomorrow I may eat another houseplant and cough it up on the carpeting.
DAY 761 Today my attempt to kill my captors by weaving around their feet while they were walking almost succeeded. Must try this at the top of the stairs. In an attempt to disgust and repulse these vile oppressors, I once again induced myself to vomit on their favorite chair… must try this on their bed (again).
DAY 762 Slept all day so that I could annoy my captors with sleep depriving, incessant pleas for food at ungodly hours of the night.
DAY 765 Decapitated a mouse and brought them the headless body, in an at-tempt to make them aware of what I am capable of, and to try to strike fear into their hearts. They only cooed and condescended about what a good little cat I was… Hmmm. Not working according to plan…
DAY 768 I am finally aware of how sadistic they are. For no good reason I was chosen for the water torture. This time however it included a burning foamy chemical called “shampoo”. What sick minds could invent such a liquid. My only consolation is the piece of thumb still stuck between my teeth and the tiny bit of flesh under my claws.
DAY 771 There was some sort of gathering of their accomplices. I was placed in solitary throughout the event. However, I could hear the noise and smell the foul odor of the glass tubes they call “beer.” More importantly I overheard that my confinement was due to MY power of “allergies”. Must learn what this is and how to use it to my advantage.
DAY 774 I am convinced the other captives are flunkies and maybe snitches. The dog is routinely released and seems more than happy to return. He is obviously a half-wit. The Bird on the other hand has got to be an informant. He has mastered their frightful tongue (something akin to mole speak) and speaks with them regu-larly. I am certain he reports my every move. Due to his current placement in the metal room his safety is assured. But I can wait, it is only a matter of time.
Off-Leash Dog ParksTo insure off-leash fun for all, it is important to follow the these rules:
¨ While most off-leash dog parks provide bags and water, there may be a chance that they don’t or are out. To be safe, bring water and something to pick up the mess your dog makes. Always clean up after your dog.
¨ Bring a leash (just in case)¨ Don’t bring your dog if it is aggressive. They can
frighten other dogs and their owners.¨ Don’t let your pet wander too far. Always keep an
eye on them.¨ If the park is near a residential area, minimize the
barking.
Herriman6664 Dallas Kyle Drive.
Park CityTrailside Park | Silver Summit Area
Salt Lake CityHerman Frank’s Park | 1350 South 800 East
Jordan Park | 900 West 1000 South
Lindsey Park Dog Park | 7th Avenue and N Street
Memory Grove | 300 North. Canyon Road
Millcreek Canyon | 3800 South East Mountains
Millrace Park | 1200 West 5400 South
Parley’s Gulch | 2700 East and I-80
Rotary Glen Park | East of Hogle Zoo
Salt Lake Dog Park | 300 South 800 East
SandySandy City Dog Park | 10200 South 300 East
TaylorsvilleMillrace Park | 5400 South 1200 West
West JordanWest Jordan Dog Park |5982 West New Bingham Highway
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Reaching 65 is an important turning point for many baby boomers—whether you are retiring from work or not. If you remain employed, however, you have the added complexity of factoring Medicare into their employer-provided healthcare decisions.
In the past 10 years, the number of people working past age 65 has climbed 52 percent, according to U.S. Bureau of Labor Sta-tistics data. More companies also are taking steps to coordinate their healthcare coverage options for employees who are eligible for Medicare.
One of your first steps is learning what your employer will pro-vide you once you reach 65.
The number of large companies offering retiree health benefits has declined from 40 percent in 1995 to 28 percent in 2010, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation. For some, employer coverage is the primary payer of benefits, with Medicare paying costs not covered by the employer plan. For other employees, the reverse is true.
It can be confusing to determine how your employer coverage coordinates with Medicare. When you add in decisions about
spouse and dependent benefits, it can become even more com-plicated.
Below are key questions people turning 65 should consider when deciding their healthcare coverage needs.
Q Do you still work and have healthcare coverage through your existing employer? If you continue to work, you may be able to keep your employer’s existing group health plan (GHP). Confirm that your employer will continue covering you. In some instances, GHPs can choose to drop or reduce coverage for Medicare-eligible employees. In these cases, the employer may offer “wrap-around” or supplemental coverage, and the individual must enroll in Medicare for primary coverage.
If your company has more than 20 employees, the GHP is the primary payer in most instances and Medicare acts as the secondary payer. Traditional Medicare has two parts, Part A is hospital coverage and Part B is medical services. Generally, everyone should take Part A when they become eligible since it is free. You have the option of enrolling and paying the monthly premiums for Part B coverage. If
Turning 65 Means
More Choices for Boomers Comparing Medicare, Employer Healthcare PlansAdrienne Muralidharan
May 2011 | 17
you don’t enroll in Medicare Part B, you need to get a de-ferral from Medicare so that you are not subject to penal-ties when you enroll in the future.
If your employer has fewer than 20 employees, Medicare becomes the primary payer and your employer’s plan is the secondary payer. In this instance, it’s essential to enroll in Medicare Parts A and B. If you don’t enroll, then generally, you will have to pay from your own pocket anything that Medicare would have covered. Make sure you get in writing details about your employer-provided coverage. This will help you to decide how to handle your Medicare choices.
Q Does your spouse work and have employer-provided healthcare coverage?You may be able to move to your spouse’s healthcare plan if it would provide you with equal or better coverage than Medicare. Again, determine how the plan would coordinate with Medicare (for example, as primary or secondary payer).
Q Are you retired and do you have retiree health benefits through your former employer?If you have coverage as good or better than Medicare under your retiree benefits and your retiree healthcare plan allows, you may be able to defer Medicare Part B. However, some retiree plans stipulate that Medicare is the primary payer and the retiree plan is the secondary payer. Therefore, you need to understand how much coverage is provided under your retiree health plan to determine if you need additional Medicare coverage.
Q Are you eligible for veteran healthcare benefits? Veteran healthcare benefits, in general, are covered when provided at U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) facilities or for services authorized by the VA. Depend-ing upon the level of VA benefits you receive, you may be adequately covered and don’t need Medicare coverage. But, some people find that Medicare offers more flexibility and choose to use a Medicare plan as well. VA benefits and Medicare do not coordinate.
Q Do other family members rely on your healthcare plan for coverage?If you are turning 65 and your spouse or your children are covered under your employer’s healthcare plan, you need to consider how their coverage may change if you choose to switch to Medicare. For example, will they be eligible for COBRA or need to secure private coverage? This is becoming increasingly important as children up to age 26 can now remain on their parent’s healthcare plan. Before changing any coverage for yourself, you want to make sure you have secured coverage for anyone else included on your policy.
Choosing Medicare CoverageWhether seeking a deferral or enrolling in Medicare, it is impor-tant to understand options provided under the federal healthcare program. This includes the alphabet of Medicare programs: Part A-hospital, Part B-medical, Part C-Medicare Advantage and Part D-prescription drug, and Medigap. In most instances, regard-less of the path you take, it’s generally a good idea to enroll in Part A, as it’s available at no cost. Enrollment in the other parts depends on several factors, including those outlined above. Con-sumers also need to evaluate the options under each type. For example, most people can choose from dozens of Medicare Part D, Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans.
Your healthcare needs are unique to you, so it can be important to have help in determining which plan best meets your needs.It’s not surprising many people find this is a confusing process, especially if you are trying to coordinate Medicare with your other options.
Adrienne Muralidharan is senior product specialist for the Allsup Medicare Advisor®, an impartial Medicare plan selection service that helps people nationwide understand and choose the most affordable and appropriate Medicare coverage for their healthcare needs. For more information contact (866) 521-7655 or http://medicare.allsup.com.
Factors such as family status and veterans benefits are key to choosing healthcare coverage.
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On May 21st over 2000 dogs will bring their humans to the event they’ve waited for all year...the annual Strut Your Mutt. There, they will meet up with old friends, and make new ones. Thier hu-mans will seek out others that are with the same breed, and they will compare notes and laugh at shared antics. Together the dogs and their humans will walk the walk, or in this case strut the strut.
But, the fun isn’t over after the walk. Strut Your Mutt has over 75 vendor booths for you to enjoy including doggy boarding, grooming, vets, doggy merchandise, and pet-friendly local busi-nesses.
And it doesn’t stop there. Don’t miss these fun activities and demonstrations for you and your pet! A dancing troop of highly trained hounds that specialize in entertaining, obstacle lure cours-
ing, and flyball, a dog sport in which teams of dogs race against each other from a start/finish line. Music will be provided by School of Rock.
Have you ever noticed how some people resemble their pets? Well, if you’re one of them, be sure to sign up for the pet/owner look-alike contest. Other contests include best trick and best costume!
If you have raised $300.00 or more for the strut, you get to hang out in Buster’s Backyard, with other VIPs. It’s the coolest place
to be during Strut Your Mutt, featuring a catered breakfast and snacks, doggie wading pools, light grooming and pawdicures, a shaded seating area, door prizes (you must be present to win), dog treats, and a free commemorative photo of you and your dog. Once you’re in, all the goodies and activities are free.
The GoalStrut Your Mutt is the largest fundraiser for No More Homeless Pets in Utah. The goal this year is to raise $170,000.00.
More than five million beautiful, healthy animals are euthanized in shelters every year. Your involvement and support of No More Homeless Pets in Utah local programs will help fund lifesaving adoption, feral cat and spay/neuter programs.
Funds raised by Strut Your Mutt participants will go directly to our participating local rescue groups (Best Friends Network Charities) and to No More Homeless Pets in Utah whose mission it is that one day kindness will replace cruelty, and animals will no longer be destroyed because they are unwanted or imperfect. Spaying and neutering will become commonplace, and adoption will be the first choice for everyone. Shelters will have the knowl-edge and resources to help rehabilitate special-needs animals and find the right family for every animal.
More than five million beautiful, healthy animals are euthanized in shelters every year.
May 2011 | 19
More than five million beautiful, healthy animals are euthanized in shelters every year.
How to StrutStep 1: RegisterGo to www.strutyourmutt.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=donorDrive.home to begin the registration process. After you enter your contact information, select your participant type (see options below) and then indicate whether you want to walk as an individual, a couple, create a Dog Pack (aka team), join an existing Dog Pack, or join one of our official Network Charities Dog Packs.
Step 2: FundraiseAfter you register, it’s time to begin raising money for No More Homeless Pets in Utah or our participating Network Charities to help create a world with No More Homeless Pets®! YOU can help change the fate of thousands of homeless pets by collecting donations from other animal lovers you know. Raise $300 or more and you’ll qualify to hang out in Buster’s Backyard (our VIP area) during the event!
Step 3: Strut!May 21st at Veterans Memorial Park in West Jordan
Utah-Area Groups that Benefit from Strut Your MuttNo More Homeless Pets In Utah’s local programs and participating local rescue groups:
¨ A New Beginning Animal Rescue¨ Community Animal Welfare Society (CAWS)¨ Companion Golden Retriever Rescue¨ Have Pittie-Pit Bull Rescue of Utah¨ Humane Society of Utah¨ Kitty Haven Sanctuary of Utah¨ Second Chance for Homeless Pets¨ TAO Rescue¨ Utah Animal Advocacy Foundation¨ Utah FACES (Friends for Animal Care and Effec-
tive Solutions)¨ Utah Friends of Basset Hounds¨ Wag-N-Train Dog Rescue & Training
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AggieSince I graduated from Utah State University and am a true Aggie, I thought that would be a great name for my dog. Aggie is an 11-year-old Sheltie (Shetland Sheepdog) who still possesses the exuberance of a young pup. She was given to me as a birthday gift. While I love dogs, at the time I was not fully committed to owning one. Not wanting to rock the boat, I allowed this little bundle of fur into my apartment. However, there would be rules and rule number one is that she was going to do her business on newspaper; I was not going to traipse outside all day and all night waiting for her to, you know, do her thing.
Now I don’t know if it was the breed’s superior intelligence or strong desire to please, but when I spread out the newspaper and placed her on it, I’ll be danged if she didn’t do a couple of figure eights, squat...and pee! I was astounded and wanted to reward her. I didn’t have any dog treats, so I gave her a few Cheerios. Throughout her puppyhood she made only one mistake on the carpet—just one. To this day she is paper-trained; I never have to take little plastic bags with me. She will hold it—even through an entire Strut Your Mutt event—until we get back to the newspaper.
Although she’s never done agility training—much less worked a flock of anything—Aggie is as sharp as a tack. She learned to sit in three tries. She knows several commands—all by hand
signals. She enjoys pleasing me and even seems to know what I’m feeling at any given moment. She is completely devoted to me and cannot stand to be anywhere but by my side. Like most Shelties, she is wary of strange people and dogs, but is doing much better now since I take her to daycare a few times a week. There she gets to cavort with well-mannered dogs of all sizes. True to her herding heritage, she doesn’t lie down or even sit. She’s constantly on the move and, although it seems incredible, she’s more hyped up when I pick her up at the end of the day. She does, however, sleep quite well after a long day of “herding.”
MeIn addition to working at O.C. Tanner, I volunteer at Salt Lake County Animal Services most Saturdays helping to exercise the dogs, doing customer get-acquainted visits, taking photos, and, yes, even hosing down the kennels. I am also a volunteer member with the Salt Lake County “Pit Crew,” a group of volunteers and staff who are helping restore the proud heritage of pit bull terriers, which were once the most popular dog in America. The shelter partners with Best Friends Animal Society (I’m also an outreach volunteer and campaign writer for them) in their campaign, Pit Bulls: Saving America’s Dog. Best Friends was instrumental at helping us establish the Pit Crew. I’ve written a few stories that were published on the Best Friends Network
Me with Buttercup at the Best Friends Animal Society boothAggie
Aggie,ME AN
D
STRUT YOUR MUTT
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website. You’ll find me helping staff their booth at the upcoming Spring Super Adoption event April 29–May 1. I also help transport dogs across the country that are pulled from euthanasia lists when foster or permanent homes are found. There are some dedicated volunteers out there who take the time to set up these “dog runs.” They involve many people driving “legs” of the route, using their own time and gas money, until the dogs reach their final destination.
I used to feel a bit self-conscious about owning a dog that came from a breeder instead of a shelter or rescue (the breeder Aggie came from was an older couple who did things right; they didn’t cut any corners and had a first-class operation). However I now know that my bond with Aggie has made me want to find that same special feeling for others through adopting homeless pets.
Strut Your MuttAggie and I entered our first Strut Your Mutt when she was five or six. I saw a pamphlet on the counter of our veterinarian’s office and thought, “Hmm; this looks like fun.” The rest, as they say, is history. Not only is Strut Your Mutt the largest fundraising event of the year for No More Homeless Pets of Utah, but also a great venue to show off your four-legged pride and joy. In fact, look up “strut” in a dictionary and you’ll see, “To walk with pompous bearing; swagger.” and “To display in order to impress others.” I still remember our first Strut together as we stopped
and talked with the other Sheltie owners and shared stories.
The walk with thousands of dogs and their proud owners is a real treat. It’s fun to see the different “mutts” make their way around Sugarhouse Park (now it’s at Veterans Memorial Park) and then mingle afterward, soaking up the sun and enjoying the entertainment and booths. Awards are given to top fundraisers, both individuals and groups (dog packs). Aggie and I were fortunate to take home the grand prize in 2008 as Top Individual Fundraiser. We raised almost $3,000 for No More Homeless Pets of Utah. The prize package included several goodies including free nights at Best Friends Animal Society, which is truly a special place. Aggie also got a professional photo shoot to promote the following year’s Strut prize package. She was posed with some of the prizes and although she was noticeably uneasy about the whole production, she obeyed and got through it like a trooper. She even flashed the Sheltie Smile in a few shots.
In ConclusionI love working to find homes for stray dogs and cats. If I didn’t have such a wonderful employer in O.C. Tanner, I would definitely be working full-time with homeless animals in some capacity. I don’t think that would have ever come to be without the love and companionship of a little Scottish herding dog with a long nose....and one heck of a loud bark!
Aggie and me at Strut Your Mutt Me with Julie Kalar, another fundraising superstar and advocate for homeless Basset Hounds
...One Mutt’s ExperienceKen Passarella
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AdvocacyAARP of Utah
801.561.1037Utah Dept of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS)Phone: 801.538.3991www.hsdaas.utah.gov/
Utah State Courts Estate Planning & Probatewww.utcourts.gov/howto/wills/Phone: 801.578.3800
Social Security Administration1.800.772.1213www.ssa.gov
SAGE Utah Services & Advocacy for GLBTQ Elderswww.glccu.com/programs/lgbtq-elders-50
Dental Services
Employment Services
Legal ServicesUtah Legal Services ................800.662.4245
Financial Services
Healthcare ResourcesAlzheimer’s Association of Utah801.265.1944
American Cancer Society of Utah801.483.1500
American Chronic Pain Association800.533.3231
American Diabetes Association-Utah801.363.3024
George E. WahlenDepartment of Veterans AffairsMedical Center500 Foothill DriveSalt Lake City, Utah 84148 Phone: 801.582.1565
Pet Services
Respite CareMedical Home Portalwww.medicalhomeportal.org
CHTOPChapel Hill Training-Outreach Programchtop.org/ARCH/National-Respite-Locator.html
helpwithmyparents.org
Connecting caregivers and professionals
Senior CentersMost Senior Centers supply transportation and meals. They are open Monday through Friday, and the hours varies. Call your center for times.
Davis CountyAutumn Glow Center81 East CenterKaysville, UT 84037Phone: 801.544.1235
Golden Years Center726 South 100 EastBountiful, UT 84010Phone: 801.295.3479
Heritage Center140 East CenterClearfield, UT 84015Phone: 801. 773.7065
Salt Lake CountyColumbus Senior Center2531 South 400 EastSalt Lake City, UT 84115Phone: 801.412.3295
Draper Senior Center12350 South 800 EastDraper, UT 84020Phone: 801.572.6342
Eddie P. Mayne Kearns Senior Center4851 West 4715 SouthSalt Lake City, UT 84118Phone: 801.965.9183
Friendly Neighborhood Center1992 South 200 EastSalt Lake City, UT 84115Phone: 801.468.2781
Harman Senior Recreation Center4090 South 3600 WestWest Valley City, UT 84119Phone: 801.965.5822
Kearns Senior Center4850 West 4715 SouthSalt Lake City, UT 84118Phone: 801.965.9183
Liberty City Center251 East 700 SouthSalt Lake City, UT 84111Phone: 801.532.5079
Magna Center9228 West 2700 SouthMagna, UT 84044Phone: 801.250.0692
Midvale Senior Center350 West Park Street 7610 S)Midvale, UT 84047Phone: 801.566.6590
Mount Olympus Senior Center1635 East Murray Holladay RoadSalt Lake City, UT 84117Phone: 801.274.1710
River’s Bend Senior Center300 North 1300 WestSalt Lake City, UT 84116Phone: 801.596.0208
Riverton Senior Center12891 South Redwood RoadRiverton, UT 84065Phone: 801.254.7609
Sandy Senior Center9310 South 1300 EastSandy, UT 84094Phone: 801.561.3265
South Jordan Senior Center10778 South Redwood RoadSouth Jordan, UT 84095Phone: 801.302.1222
Sunday Anderson Westside Senior Center868 West 900 SouthSalt Lake City, UT 84104Phone: 801.538.2092
Taylorsville Senior Citizen Center4743 South Plymouth View Dr.Taylorsville, UT 84123Phone: 801.293.8340
Tenth East Senior Center237 South 1000 EastSalt Lake City, UT 84102Phone: 801.538.2084
West Jordan Center8025 South 2200 WestWest Jordan, UT 84088Phone: 801.561.7320
Washington CountyCouncil on Aging www.washco.utah.gov/contactThe Washington County Council on Aging provides services for senior citizens 60 and older. These include classes (pottery, painting, aerobics, yoga, square dancing, and computer training) tax assistance during tax season and other services. Nutrition is a main focus of the senior centers. In-house meals are served as well as Meals on Wheels. The following centers are sup-ported in part through the donations of those patrons who use the facilities.
Gayle & Mary Aldred Senior Center245 North 200 WestSt. George , UT 84770435.634 . 5743
Washington County Senior Citizens150 East 100 South StreetEnterprise, UT 84725435.878.2557
Hurricane Senior Citizens Center95 N 300 WHurricane, UT 84737435.635.2089
VolunteeringUtah State ParksVolunteer Coordinator1594 W North Temple, 116Salt Lake City, UT 84116(801) [email protected]
The Nature Conservancy in Utahwww.nature.org/wherewework/northamer-ica/states/utah/volunteer/
Volunteer Matchwww.volunteermatch.org/
United Waywww.unitedwayucv.org/volunteer/
Utah Commission on Volunteersvolunteers.utah.gov/
Red Butte Garden Call 801-585-5688
No More Homeless Pets in Utah8029 South 700 EastSandy, UT 84070 801-432-2124
To include your services in this space call Traci Wood at 801.201.5087
Resources