Opinions

Random Thoughts It takes a lot of work to put out our little newspaper every week. I should not say “little.” With our Salute to Seniors special keepsake inserted into this week’s paper, we’re delivering a three-section, 48-page paper, plus inserts.

How about it? Does anyone else out there still remember COVID? If you're like me, the answer is a firm “No, we haven't forgotten. But we would like to.” Having said that, I want to immediately point out that I spent this past weekend getting – and recovering from – my next COVID booster shot.

Savvy Senior Dear Savvy Senior, Does Medicare cover physical therapy, and if so, how much coverage do they provide? My 66-year-old husband was recently diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and will need ongoing physical therapy to help keep him moving. Worried Wife Dear Worried, Yes, Medicare does indeed pay for physical therapy along with occupational and speech therapy too, if he needs it, as long as it’s prescribed by his doctor.

There has been a lot of news coverage and online talk in recent weeks about artificial intelligence, its progress, and what advantages or threats we might face in the future. A lot of this discussion has come about thanks to ChatGPT and artificial intelligence (AI) technology that was introduced in November.

I’ve told you all about my youngest daughter Katie’s recent wedding, and how she and her longtime boyfriend (and then fiance) Rob Hornstra got married in late April. It was an outdoor event, complete with camping, vows in the Kansas wind, and even a little rain one night.

Dear Savvy Senior, Can you recommend some good toenail clipping solutions for seniors? My toenails have gotten increasingly thick since I’ve gotten older and have become very difficult for me to reach down and cut. Almost 80 Dear Almost, Trimming your toenails is a task that most people don’t think much about, but as we get older it can become very challenging.

Savvy Senior Dear Savvy Senior, Can you recommend some good online dating apps or sites for retirees? I’m a 66-year-old widow and would like to find a new friend to spend time with, but don’t know where to turn. Cautious Carol Dear Carol, Whether you’re interested in dating again or just looking for a friend to spend time with, online dating sites and apps have become an easy and convenient way for older adults to meet new single people without ever having to leave home.

“Gather your travel trailers and tents, boys and girls. We're having a camping wedding.” With those words (okay...

Insight The saying “April showers bring May flowers” is what runs through my mind every spring. It’s a saying that has held true for almost every year I have lived on our Kansas farm.

Random Thoughts I've been in my current house for about 12 years now, and until recently have never had any problems with raccoons. In fact, I don't think I've ever seen a raccoon in Cheney where I live, or in any of our other towns.