All Posts in "Month: May 2018"

The Pierce County Library System is asking citizens what they want from it as it goes about the job of prioritizing library services while dealing with a tight budget.

The public’s thoughts were invited at open houses at library branches countywide in February. Input was also accepted via an online survey through March 10. A second survey via telephone was launched in April.

Library leaders will share the public’s ideas with a community advisory committee, which is meeting to review and assess the level of funding of library services. The committee, appointed by PCLS administrators, is expected to make a recommendation to the Library System’s Board of Trustees. Options might include asking voters to increase property taxes – PCLS’ prime source of funding — to serve the area’s growing communities or making more cuts in library services.

In case they decide in the next few months to one before voters, the trustees have asked officials to prepare a possible tax proposal.

“We are talking with people about our funding constraints, which stem from costs to run the libraries growing at a faster and higher rate than revenues,” said Georgia Lomax, executive director of the Library System (PCLS). “In the past 12 years, our service area has grown by 82,000 people, straining resources to serve growing communities.”

In recent years, PCLS costs have increased an average of 4 to 7 percent a year, while property tax revenues have increased at an average rate of 1 to 3 percent, according to Lomax. Property taxes make up approximately 94 percent of the Library System’s revenue.

Population growth and use of libraries have outgrown many library buildings, officials said. At the same time, many of the buildings are aging. Since 2006, the population in the PCLS service area has grown from 518,000 to 600,000 people – an increase of 16 percent. The number of people with library cards grew 63 percent, so that at the end of 2017, 323,000 people were active cardholders.

The use of library materials – checkouts of books, movies, music and other items – has grown 33 percent since 2006. During those 12 years, attendance of library-hosted classes and events – such as story times and block play for kids, and technology and job-readiness courses for adults – has surged by 700 percent, officials said.

Meanwhile, the Library System has outlived its re-authorized levy that voters passed in 2006. Lomax said PCLS has met or surpassed all four levy promises – more books and materials, hours, services for children, and technology services. Officials projected that the 2006 levy would meet the public’s needs for up to six years. Lomax said that funding has been stretched for 12 years.

Since 2009, the gap between service needs and available funding averaged about $2 million a year, for a total of $20 million, according to library officials. To balance its budget and sustain overall services, PCLS has eliminated or reduced some of what it offers. For 2018, it has cut spending on books and other materials, deferred major facility investments and software system upgrades, eliminated a service that provided downloadable and streaming movies, TV shows and audiobooks, and ended the public’s use of meeting rooms in libraries when the libraries themselves are closed.

By state law, library districts such as Pierce County’s may receive property taxes for up to 50 cents per every $1,000 in assessed property value. PCLS’ current tax rate is 42.94 cents for every $1,000 of assessed valuation and is expected to decrease to 41.50 cents in 2019, officials said.

Nearly 3,000 citizens attended the February open houses at library branches, and more than 4,000 people completed surveys on what they want, need and value in library services. Their top four priorities were, according to library officials, “convenient library hours” (72 percent), printed and downloadable books, magazines, movies, audiobooks and music (68 percent) help from library workers (64 percent), and access to computers, wi-fi, printers and other technology (50 percent).

PCLS serves a countywide population of roughly 600,000 through its 20 branch libraries and online, making it the fourth-largest public library system in Washington. It has about 1.5 million books, e-books, audiobooks, movies and other materials to lend. It also has specialized services and programs for adult care facilities, homebound individuals, childcare centers and schools.

 

Pat Jenkins, who wrote this article, is editor of Senior Scene and program director of Senior Media Services. He is also a member of the Pierce County Library System Board of Trustees.

Classes on using technology devices are among the services provided at branches of Pierce County Library System.
Pat Jenkins by — May 9, 2018 in News

An oral rinse is part of the CloSYS dental products line.

Dr. Perry Ratcliff, a periodontist and expert on dental health and gum disease, had a 50-year career that includes a prominent role in the development of dental products for older adults.

Before his death in 2008 in Scottsdale, Ariz. at the age of 93, Ratcliff worked with other dental professionals to create the CloSYS product line in 1991. The products include CloSYS Silver, a daily oral rinse for 55-and-up adults. Specially formulated for the changing needs of mature mouths, its germ-killing benefits promote oral and overall health. The special formula is dentist-recommended to help relieve dry mouth and contains fluoride to strengthen enamel and protect against cavities, according to Rowpar Pharmaceuticals, which markets it.

During his years of clinical practice, Ratcliff discovered that stabilized chlorine dioxide helped reduce the harmful bacteria in the mouths of his patients. That led him to create the patented formula Cloralstan, the active ingredient of CloSYS.

CloSYS products are available without a prescription through online sales at CloSYS.com, Amazon and Drugstore.com, and from retailers, including Walgreens, CVS Pharmacy and Walmart (select stores).

srmedia by — May 9, 2018 in Personal Finance/Consumers

An anti-inflammatory diet aims to minimize harmful inflammation in the body. From avocados to turmeric, fill your diet with this list of the top 20 anti-inflammation foods:

  1. Avocados

Avocados are unique in the fact they are rich in healthy fat, unlike most fruits that naturally supply carbohydrate. They also source a number of antioxidants, including lutein and zeaxanthin that can protect the eyes from cataracts and macular degeneration, common conditions in the elderly. Avocadoes have been shown to reduce inflammation in young skin cells, along with managing blood pressure and promoting digestive health relative to its high fiber and potassium concentrations.

  1. Blueberries

They may be small, but blueberries are nothing short of mighty. Blueberries are chock-full of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, along with supplying antioxidants such as anthocyanins, gallic acid, and resveratrol. The compounds can help combat against inflammation, boost immunity, reduce heart disease risk, and improve skin health. Strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, and other colorful berries are also suppliers of powerful antioxidants.

  1. Beets

The deep and rich color of beets is not only eye-appealing, but signifies its potent antioxidant content. Beets contain betalain, a pigment supplying their signature color and an excellent anti-inflammatory. Primarily related to its nitrate content, research additionally shows drinking beet juice may fight the progression of dementia. Nitrites have shown to widen blood vessels, thus increasing oxygen-rich blood flow to the brain.

  1. Bone Broth

Bone broth is created by simmering together water, animal bones, vegetables, and various seasonings, with the long and slow process releasing valuable minerals from the bones and collagen from the joints. Largely in the form of minerals, antioxidants in bone broth may demonstrate the power to fight against aging by protecting the body from damaging free radicals, harmful compounds mostly originating from environmental toxins or stemming from a poor diet.

  1. Broccoli

As if there was just another reason to eat your broccoli. The cruciferous veggie supplies potent antioxidants, including sulforaphane. The antioxidant has shown to fight inflammation by reducing levels of cytokines, signaling proteins shown to synergize inflammation. Research has also shown consuming cruciferous vegetables, including cauliflower and Brussels sprouts, is associated with a decreased risk of both heart disease and cancer.

  1. Cherries

Cherries are one of the best foods to reduce inflammation, with researchers suggesting both tart and sweet variations display the highest anti-inflammatory content of any food! They are packed with antioxidants, such as anthocyanins and catechins, which can lower inflammation related to arthritis and muscle recovery.

  1. Coffee

Reaching for that morning cup of joe not only gifts that energy jolt, but supplies powerful antioxidants. Along with reducing inflammation, coffee is tied to better brain health and may enhance memory, reduce dementia risk, lower the risk of Parkinson’s disease, and stave off depression. However, it is important to divvy away from copious amounts of added sugars and creams, as they can be pro-inflammatory and dismiss the benefits of coffee.

  1. Dark Chocolate

Simultaneously kick the craving and up the antioxidants! Dark chocolate contains polyphenols are powerful antioxidants, showing to lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, certain cancers, and brain deterioration. But to have your chocolate and eat it too, it is important to keep sugar minimized; use cocoa powder in cooking and look for dark chocolate products with minimal added sugars.

  1. Fatty Fish

Including salmon, anchovies, herring, mackerel, tuna, and sardines, fatty fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Fatty fish contain high amounts of the omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which offers anti-inflammatory effects to the body.

  1. Flax and Chia Seeds

Not a fan of fish? Both flax and chia seeds seeds are likewise rich in omega-3 fatty acids, along with being a valuable plant-based protein and fiber source. So in addition to reducing inflammation in the body, these seeds support digestive and heart health.

  1. Grapes

Several plant compounds in grapes, including flavonoids and resveratrol, can reduce inflammation and protect against damage, particularly related to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease.

  1. Green Tea

Going green with your tea pours out bountiful health benefits, mostly related to its catechin content, a type of polyphenol. Green tea has demonstrated to reduce inflammation and protect cells from damage that may lead to disease, including diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. Regular consumption may also assist in weight loss efforts by increasing metabolism and reducing fat mass.

  1. Leafy Greens

Leafy greens are extremely high in polyphenols and vitamins A, C, and K, all of which are believed to offer anti-inflammatory properties. From spinach to kale, add leafy greens to a number of meals, including salads, soups, casseroles, and soups.

  1. Nuts

Almonds, walnuts, and other nut varieties are rich in healthy fat shown to combat against inflammation. In fact, evidence correlate nuts with reduced markers of inflammation, along with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Nuts are also rich in protein and fiber, two dietary components that facilitate and accelerate weight loss efforts.

  1. Oats

Oats are a whole grain that seem to have special health properties, notoriously known for its role in digestive and heart health thanks to its high fiber content. However, oats also contain compounds known as avenanthramides, which have shown to offer anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. So rather than pouring out a sugary bowl of cereal in the morning, prepare these overnight oat recipes for significant health benefits.

  1. Olive Oil

Along with supplying heart-healthy monounsaturated fat, olive oil is a known source of oleocanthal, a phenolic compound shown to offer anti-inflammatory benefits. In fact, oleocanthal has exhibited the same anti-inflammatory response in the body as NSAID ibuprofen, designating it as a safe and natural anti-inflammatory agent.

  1. Oranges

Oranges are notorious for their vitamin C content, which can act as a potent antioxidant. Vitamin C helps to reduce the damage from ultraviolet (UV) light exposure, a major risk factor for skin cancer. The vitamin has also shown to reduce skin wrinkling and improve overall skin appearance, while it’s collagen-building properties shape and maintain the structure of bone, tendon, skin, cartilage and all other connective tissue.

  1. Red Wine

Being produced from grapes, red wine is notorious for its resveratrol content. Resveratrol becomes more concentrated during the fermentation process, while being more potent in red over white wine. Researchers have correlated resveratrol to numerous health advantages, including good heart health, cancer prevention, and anti-aging. To reap the most benefit of red wine, drink in moderation and verify its consumption will not cause adverse side effects related to medication interactions.

  1. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are an excellent source of lycopene, a carotenoid found in pink and red plants. The color-producing pigment has also shown to protect against inflammation, cancer, and skin damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) light that shines from the sun.

  1. Turmeric

While not a food per se, turmeric is certainly worth mentioning. Coming from the turmeric plant, turmeric is a spice bright in color and mostly known for its warm, bitter taste in curry dishes. In addition to its culinary use, turmeric has been used to treat an extensive number of inflammatory and infectious diseases and conditions, particularly related to its curcumin content. Curcumin, the chemical providing the vibrant color of turmeric, is suggested to reduce inflammation and combat against infection.

 

Source: Silver Cuisine and its team of dietitians, chefs and fitness experts.

Contributing Author by — May 9, 2018 in Health & Fitness

Clyde Fye keeps on rolling. And bowling.

The Gig Harbor resident turned 97 on May 7. And he’s still a competitive bowler at Narrows Plaza Bowl in University Place, where his friends and fellow keglers threw a birthday party for him April 30.

Clyde Fye is still a competitive bowler at the age of 97

His average scores are 158 per game in the weekly Villa Seniors League. Over the years, he has rolled one perfect game of 300 and come close two other times with 299s.

srmedia by — May 9, 2018 in Lifestyles