Oporto, Portugal 2006

                                                            Portugal 2006

We started our trip in style with business class seats upstairs in the Boeing 747 where it’s private and peaceful. The Sheraton in Oporto is very new, very young, with sleek glass elevators, and a humongous breakfast buffet that includes chocolate truffles!

Our first day was sunny, but cool. We walked to town enjoying the park along the Douro River. Several peacocks greeted us. We passed one of Oporto’s famous bridges and admired the lovely wrought iron railings along the paths and gardens. There is a lot of construction. The new Metro is impressive.

Not knowing about the riverboat tours, we hired a driver to take us through the Douro Region. He was a young father, full of questions about parenting. We visited Amarante, a small quaint hillside town on the Tamega River. The streets are narrow and lined with Vinho verde vines.

On Sunday mornings, men gathered in the city center to catch up on the news. Women touched the nearby statue of Saint Goncalo asking him for a good man to marry. I took a photo next to him with the good man I found. (Mike)

At Quinta Da Pacheca vineyard we learned that Vintage Port is best, LBV contains vintage, Tawny is a blend and a less expensive port. Due to little rain, 2004 and 2005 were not good port years. A proper port glass is a goblet. We drove past Villa Real in a terraced valley.

It was fun to recognize Chateau Mateus from the wine label. The owners live in one side of this graceful chateau. We toured the other side plus the wonderful gardens with cedar trees trimmed into a long tunnel. I didn’t need much time in a room containing martyrs’ bones and a headless corpse. The carved wooden ceilings were worth examining. Each room had a different pattern.

The railway station is bedecked with tiles depicting the history of the region. We ate lunch in a small cafe, talked to a tall young waiter about his enthusiasm for basketball and Michael Jordon. The roasted kid (goat) and potatoes were delicious.

Casa Musica concert hall, designed by Rem Koohaas, is impressive.

Teens skateboarded on its ramps. St. Francis Church’s catacombs were oddly elegant black and white. The church was closed to worship as St. Francis preached detachment from worldly goods. His audience included wealthy locals who “bought” their way to heaven by gilding the church.

Lunch came with a view of the Douro River and laundry waving in the breeze from the nearby neighborhood: shrimp, fried eggs, tomato and rice - perfect.

                                    Minho Region

Bracelos is famous for a rooster, the legendary mascot of Portugal. A thief was released from a death sentence because he said the rooster would crow if I’m innocent. It did and he was free. This colorful rooster decorates pottery and other objects.

We visited Guillamea, the first capitol of Portugal. The castle of Dad’s xgreat grandfather, the first King and Duke of Burgundy, still stands. An adjacent palace is perfectly restored with painted ceilings and gorgeous woods, stone, furniture, porcelain and tapestries.

                  Contemporary Art Museum and Gardens

We saw an angry exhibit decrying the loss of innocents. The garden of camellias and magnolia trees soothed. After miles of walking, we earned an al fresco lunch in view of a lighthouse. The sun shone on my ham, sausage hero sandwich smothered in melted cheese and floating on my tomato soup.

Don’t miss Boa Nova seafood restaurant right at the ocean’s edge. It is built into the rocks.

         Museu Nacional de Soares Dos Reis ****

Housed in a perfectly restored mansion with 17c sculpture by Soares.

The porcelain and ceramics were a feast in blue. I ate lunch at Mesa Antiqua. It felt like I was eating in a private home: caldo verte soup of cabbage, broth, and olive oil, grilled trout, collard greens, red wine and homemade custard tart. Our host explained the prevalence of custard. The nuns used many egg whites to starch church linens, so they invented recipes to use up all those yolks.

I bought a silver and turquoise necklace in a shop near our hotel. An interpretation of southwest Native American jewelry with a Portuguese motif of silver leaves, Happy Birthday to me.

A cab ride to a restaurant was interrupted by the arrest of a handcuffed man in front of the Bento train station. Two women begged the taxi driver to let them in, out of the fray. They thanked us, and then assured me my destination restaurant was “Bom, Bom.”

Several times, when I asked locals for directions, they escorted me rather than just pointing. So gracious and practical, as I am definitely direction-challenged. I would say, “Por Favor” then add my destination.

         Tour and Dinner at the Ferreira Wine Caves in Gaia

This 250-year-old winery came with a charming guide, very cold rooms, and a huge multi-course dinner to walk off tomorrow. We danced to the Bossa Nova in the hotel lounge. The guitarist and chanteuse were from Brazil. She sang the sad fava laments. We left at midnight strolling in the golden light emitting from the stone buildings and towers.

                                    Porto City Tour

We rode along Boa Vista Blvd (with a Portuguese guide, a Welsh social worker and a Greek accountant!), past mansion after mansion. It’s too hard to see the gardens behind tall stone walls. We past the sea and reached Old Town Porto via a 12c Cathedral, a Port Wine Museum and a waterfront conference center housed in a stately granite building. Then, down famous Caterina Street of Shops to the artful Majestic Cafe where the Press (TV) were interviewing a famous local author, Agustina Bessa Luis.

Silver covers everything in the 12c cathedral. When Napoleon’s troops arrived, one man quickly made a plaster wall to hide this treasure. They were fooled. The bedazzling silver remains to this day.

                           How to Open a Bottle of 1983 Vintage Port

1.   Keep the wine horizontal for several years if you wish. Otherwise, drink it within 2 days of opening. Within 24 hours is better (and more fun?)

2.   Open and let air by removing the cork.

3.   Stand the bottle upright the day before opening so sediment falls to the bottom.

4.   Before drinking, decant.

5.   Serve with ham or yummy, soft, smooth Serra cheese-not sweets!

                 

                           Mike’s Scientific Meeting Venue

The lecture hall is in the Palácio da Bolsa Porto. This is the most elaborate and beautiful decor for a meeting room. There are ornate parquet floors plus gilded walls & ceiling painted Moorish style. Dinner is in the elegant atrium downstairs near the entrance. We moved from one elegant room to another for appetizers, then for dinner where we saw a sommelier open a 1997 Vintage Port by putting the bottle in a rack tilt it, hitting the neck with a tool, breaking the glass then removing the cork. Decanted with a flourish, of course. 

                                    UNESCO Recognition

In the mid 1990’s parts of Porto were designated historical districts and given some money to begin restoration. 5,000 buildings are in need of renovation partly due to a lack of funds.

Saturday morning we saw hoards of people at the local Puce (flea) market. They scrutinized used household items, some recent, some vintage. While at the coffeehouse near the U of Porto, we discussed politics with our host. She had been in university when the country was freed from Salazar’s dictatorship. She said it was the happiest day of her life. He kept Portugal primitive and subservient. Now the EU affiliation brings UN money and hope for the future. There is universal healthcare. Most elders live with their children.

We stopped at Lello Bookstore. What a beauty! This librarian was impressed with the fine wood, twisting staircase, stained glass and gleaming wooden shelves. A whimsical display included a bottle of Port in the wine book section.

VA (Viva & Allegria) sells Portuguese-made delicate porcelain, ceramics and jewelry. Some are reproductions. The public library is near Crystal Garden Park. It was improved with a mix of Portuguese and UN money. It has state of the art computers, shiny new books, and an elaborate menu of weekly children’s programs. Parents interacted with their children sharing books, writing together, playing with toys together. A very nice scene!

                           Embroidered Love Letters

Shepherd girls made colorful squares of cloth by embroidering available materials with simple poems, hearts, and flowers. They would give these to their heart’s desire. If he wore it in his pocket, they would know the fondness was reciprocal. The shops sell them today.

                                    Grand Finale

We joined a small group from the meetings: George and Matila (Portuguese), Gerard (Armenian living in London), Charles (Belgian), and Jean-Claude Faber (Luxembourg) for viewing the sunset over the ocean, then dining royally at a neighborhood restaurant. We watched them grill sardines out front, then listened as the menu offered many versions of sardines. Grilled with roasted potatoes, and served with green salad with a heavenly version of creme brûlée (touch of lemon), it was delicious.

Oporto is…relaxing, sunny, cordial, and proud of its heritage, open to new ways, humble, earnest, un-crowded, and recovering from 40 years of Salazar’s rule.

Greece 2002

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Greece 6/21-7/7/02

                                                            Athens

We look out our window at the Royal Olympic Hotel. There is Zeus’s temple all lit up in the night. This requires a momentary pause in our jet lag pity party. After our nap, we headed to the Plaka District. The sounds of singing & evangelizing floated through the sultry night. Michaelo’s served up fine caprese and even better people watching. We got a second wind. We were actually in Greece!

The signs of the 2004 Olympic preparation were everywhere. When we asked for directions, we often heard “It’s just 10 minutes straight ahead.” The street curves perplexingly. Mmmm. Will the Olympic crowds find their venues? Our friend, Sue, was hit and bruised by a motorcycle while crossing the street on a green light. Luckily, her long friendship with a Greek family kept this from being her dominant trip memory.

Near the charming Plaka, we ate gyros at an outdoor café. A woman shows us her hand embroidered tablecloth-white silk thread on white cotton- only 60 Euros. I said “No” for the next twenty minutes. Each time she approached, the price went down. When she reached 15 Euros I succumbed. Mildly stressful, seriously awkward lunch! (I gifted the cloth to my mother-in-law, and then later inherited it.)

The next day we made the hot, dusty, windy climb to the Parthenon. Seeing the intricate beauty of the caryatids holding up the temple walls made it all worth it. We walked down from the Acropolis to the Agora where SOPHOCLES taught and strolled- wow! A small museum displays ancient everythings including a cool machine with red and black balls determining who had a voice in their Senate. I smiled to see a 6-minute water clock. When a speaker began, the water was poured into the clock. When, in six minutes, it had flowed out, the speaker must stop.

Can you imagine hushing SOPHOCLES?

That evening we followed a winding path, got lost, but after climbing a fence and trudging through a field, we finally got to an outdoor concert pavilion under a full moon. A 4-piece band played while 20 elegantly costumed professional dancers demonstrated traditional dances from several parts of Greece. Over the years, I’ve been warned to avoid tourist traps. This seems misguided! I am a tourist. I don’t want to miss anything. These places are famous because they are awesome!

                                                Delphi

We took a bus tour north to arrive in Delphi for an overnight stay. After walking among the ruins of Apollo’s temple, sanctuary and stadium, the past really does seem present. The line between myth and fact is blurry indeed. Staring at the beautiful stone wall, I can imagine leaders approaching the Oracle of Delphi seeking advice and strategic advantages over the enemy. I stare back at the life–sized statue of a charioteer.

The Vouzas Hotel sits on a edge of a steep cliff above a deep valley full of olive trees. We sat on our little balcony admiring the full moon, listening to pleasant (unseen!) insects and relishing the cooler temperature of late night. Imagine skiing down nearby Mt. Parnassus.

All is quiet in the early morning. We hear tractors far away in the olive grove below us. Shops open late. The pizza in the nearby café is some of the best we’ve ever tasted. We ate there twice under a large Oak tree.

                                                Kalabaka /Meteora Monasteries

A lengthy bus trip along the Thessalonian Plain took us to the Divani Meteora Hotel beneath the mystical hilltop monasteries. Where else could you be so close to heaven?  In town we bought some gifts, tried our limited Greek and watched painters apply gold leaf to icons. A rainstorm freshened the air.

Yes! The tedious bus trip was worth it. We wound up the mountains, marveling at the cratered, cave-dotted rock formations. So fanciful it evokes Tolkien. Eerie, meditative, isolated. Eighteen monks live in the monastery on top of a pinnacle. Only 6 of the original 21 buildings are still in use. We saw monks tending gardens, greeting visitors, staffing the gift shop. One third of each day is spent this way, another third in prayer. At one time supplies had to be pulled up the mountain in baskets. Look up the pictures of this amazing place.

                                                Rhodes

After a one-hour flight from Athens, we settle into the Hotel Mediterranean. We strolled down the northeast coast right through ancient Rhodes. We passed the spot where the Colossus of Rhodes once stood. (According to legend) It is very scenic with three stately windmills along the water’s edge. The entrance to the walled city is dramatic. We followed charming narrow streets leading, after several misleading directions from the locals, “straight ahead on the right”, to Marco Polo’s restaurant. Fine food in a garden setting-lovely!

We passed the ruins of a 2^nd century Temple to Aphrodite on our way to the beach. How I love dining outside!  We ate at an exquisite restaurant “Old Story” among flowering plants and lush greens. The scampi in ouzo-orange sauce and the milk chocolate soufflé were ambrosian.

I’m getting tan! The sea abuts our hotel on two sides. We spend part of the day in the medieval old town admiring pottery, jewelry, statues,and  ruins, then we loll about around our seaside hotel.

We visited the archeological museum, and then the impressive Palace of the Knights with its intricate mosaic floors, the deep colors lasting thousands of years. Still on Rhodes, we return to the Marco Polo restaurant, enjoying watermelon, apricots, kiwis and deep red tomatoes.

Later, I sipped an amaretto, pineapple, and coconut drink while Mike surfed.

                                                Lindos

Another wonderful day! We drove to Lindos, a picturesque 17c. village on a cliff above the beautiful blue sea. It was too hot and steep to climb up to the acropolis, so Sue and I rode  donkeys! The ride was bumpy as the donkey listed to the right making me rappel off the jagged rocky walls en route. Topped it off by getting a major leg cramp disembarking.

We’re seeing patterns now: tomatoes and cucumbers at each meal, temples to Aphrodite or Athena or Apollo in every ancient village, an acropolis and agora (market). History shows us that humans seek some superior being. The Greeks blend myth with cold facts-beguiling but confusing. Our al fresco meal at the Seahorse Restaurant was delicious.

We walked through the ancient city of Kalmiro after lunch, then through Butterfly Valley, a nature preserve with green trees, running waterfalls, and fluttering butterflies.

The last night on Rhodes we used the Internet Café arriving at ten pm. Finally we’re on Greek time, eating lunch at 2pm and dinner at 9pm.

Brazil plays Germany tonight in the World Cup finals. We sit in a bar and join a dozen or so people from several countries. Sports do build bridges.

The Decorative Arts Museum is worth a stop. The rooms are arranged by color rather than by chronology. There were lovely examples of wood carved friezes, tiles, embroidery, tapestry and pottery. Cobblestone streets, colorful vines and clay pots of flowers entertained us en route.

                                            Santorini

Santorini is an example of a tourist destination not to be missed. We took the “Fat Cat” Dolphin catamaran to a mountain top village of Fira. It is even more glorious than the many photos of black sand and white buildings, red geraniums, and blue sea! A kindly pharmacist gave me Claritin to treat my allergies. Once I stopped emptying Kleenex boxes, I could imagine myself in a goddess gauzy tunic and pants. Bought the outfit as a souvenir.

We ate at Archipelago’s Cafe on a ridge overlooking the crater of a volcano. The eruption  changed the shape of the island from full to half circle. Mike bought me a necklace with a coin depicting Athena. Goes great with my new lapis and gold bracelet! I said the place was romantic.

                                                Heraklion Crete

A trip to the Archeological Museum in Heraklion introduced us to Knossos, ancient city of the Minoans.A German archeologist, Evans, dedicated 35 years and thousands of Pounds to excavating and restoring Knossos. Highlights for me were the ancient staircase, the queen’s chambers and the wall frescoes. Many, many tour groups shared the site with us. So did the sun. It was hot!

                       

                                                Rethymnon Crete

Rethymnon is one of the best preserved Venetian old towns on the Isle of Crete. Our hotel, Kyrna is beachfront. We watched the world go by as we sipped Kahlua. Their Museum of Folklife was excellent. My favorite objects were bright colored bags of  wool-ancient backpacks actually. Woven fabrics with Rethymnian embroidery were a close second. The Turkish and Italian influences are obvious here. We saw a contemporary sculpture exhibition inside a mosque, which was formerly a Catholic Church, in the fortress built on what was once the acropolis!These experiences bring home how very young our nation is. Capers grow like weeds close to the ground at our feet. We marveled at tiny snails perched on grain stalks everywhere. Enchanting.

The Greeks tell us American tourism has declined in this area.(post 9-11)

The beach here is super, not crowded, and bordered by fine, soft sand washed by the warm Aegean Sea. A boy about 6 asked Mike for a boost so he could reach a diving post.  Even without his classical Greek course in high school, Mike obliged.

 Lunch consisted of spinach-like greens, grilled eggplant, onions, lemon chicken and gold potatoes in olive oil and lemon juice. This is a meal I can make at home!

We enjoyed a concert and excellent dance demo at the mosque.

The 4^th of July With the U.S.  Navy in Hania Crete and the Samaria Gorge

We walked through the old city along the Venetian Harbor shopping and people-watching. The Naval Museum is interesting, but the photos of World War II are so sad. The local people hid in caves first from the Italians, then from the Germans. We had a mission- to walk the Samaria Ridge Sue told us about.After a long bus ride in a bus full of U.S. Navy sailors, the tour guide, who drove the bus to the hiking site, announced that there were only two donkeys to serve as an ambulance should someone need help. They tell us that after we had paid for a bus ride with a 5 am departure! 

We descended down a steep, switch back path to the bottom of the famous Samaria Gorge- a challenging, epic, ROCKY, 16km hike. We were surprised how difficult the footing was on irregularly shaped loose rocks and wondered how our friends were going to be able to finish. My hiking boots definitely earned their place in my 23’ suitcase. Fresh, clear mountain spring water faucets served as an oasis along the way. A camaraderie developed as the path narrows to one across. A unique, small species of goat resides in this secluded gorge. The KriKri are small brown animals with black stripes on their backs.After several hours, the trail winds past what they call “The Iron Gate”, a very narrow opening in the high steep mountains that signifies the end of the trail. 

The challenge is to finish the trek in time to catch the last ferry back or have to spend the night there. Our friends, Sue and Marty completed the trek just in time to catch the last ferry to Hania. This in spite of her Vespa collision in Athens and an earlier accident leaving her with an unbending knee. We had waited for over an hour sipping cool drinks and eating watermelon. Their comments upon arrival were memorable as Mike rushed up the path to greet them: Sue - “Don’t say one word or I will cry”; Marty – “Except for having all of your teeth pulled without Novocaine, that was enjoyable”. A T-Shirt with “I Survived The Samaria Gorge” was the reward for Sue.

The streets of Hania are charming with several quality shops. I bought a metal owl lantern and a luna bracelet for Trish. Then we tucked into a tiny carpet shop. The rugs were beautiful!  We were deciding whether to buy a bright woolen one for our dining room. We learned our rug, if ordered that day, would be started two years later, in 2004! We saw gorgeous Kilins rugs in another shop selling for thousands of Euros. The moral of the story= fine carpets take time.

                                    Back To Athens

We flew from Hania to Athens and stayed at the airport Sofitel. From my massage table, I could see out to the swimming pool area, but they couldn’t see me; a bit bizarre. The hotel wine was better than that we’d had at the charming tavernas. In Santorini we tasted a delicious local white. Restaurant meals may end with Raki, a strong, fiery liquor too strong for me.

                        General Comments on Food

So many oranges grow on Crete, they don’t harvest all of them. I love their fresh orange juice. The stuffed grape leaves are served warm-very tasty! Markets sell stacks of grape leaves. Watermelon is ubiquitous and so sweet. Potatoes accompany nearly every dish. The bread is rustic and good. Grilled eggplant, never overcooked, is wonderful. The olives are varied and pungent. A disease has damaged many trees here and in Italy this year. The tavern meat is fatty and not too tender. Olive oil is used lavishly. Honey and Yogurt prevail for dessert. We saw beehives along the highways. Ah…the fish! Calamari fresh and light and so flavorful. Grouper, swordfish, mullet, snapper and shrimp.

                        The Colors of Greece

In addition to the prevalent elegance of blue-trimmed white stucco houses, pleasing pale yellow and peach, vibrant gold and red create a cheerful scene. Folk costumes use striking contrasting colors and bold embroidery. Flowering vines and trees abound adding bursts of color against the white walls. Many widows wear the traditional black.

                                      

                                    Greek Impressions

                                            Roadside Shrines

The plaster, metal, and glass “boxes” on posts along Greek roads signify:

1.    The site of a fatal accident

2.    The site of an accident in gratitude to Mary for survival.

3.    Honoring the war dead.

Inside are photos, flowers, mementos, oils, etc.

 Raven black hair, liquid brown eyes, aquiline noses and pointed chin good looks. So many artistic touches. I saw an elderly man place a long leaf frond inside the waterspout so the water flowed over it. A plaster repair in our hotel room bore a cherubim-like shape.

*Babies are fussed over, which is delightful.

*More naps (in the hot afternoons) make for cheerier people.

*These friendly, helpful folks “morph” into fierce drivers of vespas and cars. *Pedestrians are treated to honks in order to hustle us out of the way. 

What a country! Grownups can be heard giggling. It’s contagious. Have a great trip!

Thailand 1999

Strongs Do Thailand Sep 24, 1999

Sunny and Mike headed for Bangkok this morning via EVA Air and Taipai. They will

spend the week there, with Mike lecturing at the Medical School in the Graduate

Program and Sunny being the tourist. The temperatures in Bangkok are in the 90s with

daily thunderstorms and high humidity so it will be a change of climate for sure from

Seattle. A follow up story will be posted upon their return.

Oct 3, 1999

Mike and Sunny have survived another cross Pacific sojourn. After 2 days of sleeping following their return, things are again beginning to appear normal. Sleeping in an upright position dose not get any easier with age. Mike spent the week with lectures and discussions with students from VietNam, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Malaysia and Thailand. It was an interesting week explaining the American perspective to these students. This is the first graduate program of tissue banking in the world and the Thais are to be commended for taking a leadership role despite working in less than ideal surroundings. The final day included presentations of assigned reading for each student and an written examination that took them 2 hours to complete. It was apparently an even longer week for them, with their hours in the classroom and hours of study.

Sunny, meanwhile, was cruising in boats along the Chao Phraya River and canals. This is a cool escape from the traffic and from the heat. Life along the waterways is fascinating to watch. Early in the week, I wrote my wish list, and then managed to check off each item. First, was eating delicious mangosteen fruit, found at the open market near the National Palace. Then, massage by our host's favorite massage therapists. The entrance to their house is lovely jungle with palms and geckos and wooden Thai antiques. The rooms smelled of camphor. The massage is acu-pressure. Some of the pressure was too much,

most was heavenly. Another thing on my list was a visit to Suan Pakkar Palace. One of the princes moved century old wooden Thai homes, in different styles and with beautiful teak carving, to one place, then filled them with well-displayed antiques, some of solid gold! The gems in Thailand are gorgeous in the museums. Unfortunately, the sapphire ring we bought for Dorothea and the emerald ring for Trish were not good lasting quality, so I stayed away from gems this time. However, our host gave me a 1-carat ruby. He was so generous-taking us out for our meals, paying for our massage, driving us way out of

Bangkok to see Thailand's highest pagoda plus a country fair with vendors tossing ice cream scoops high into the air, then catching them in a serving dish. Today, after two days at home, I am feeling human again and can really say it was a great trip. I was sick when we left, so the first 2 days were yucky and the last two days of jetlag were, too. 

Family Acknowledgments; Alaska 1999, Memphis 2002, New Mexico 2003

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Family News and Travel Blogs

Mike & Sunny Do Alaska Sep 8, 1999

Mike and Sunny finally made the inside passage tour to Alaska, after years of talking about it. Although highly unusual that they would venture out of their Edmonds home,

the Strongs made the investment and took the trip. The expected sites were encountered with eagles, salmon, whales, bears, glaciers, helicopter rides to the Mendenhall glacier, a train ride to the top of the pass made famous by the gold rush, and more food than can be imagined. The floating hotel provided non-stop entertainment with dancing every night after the stage productions. A well equipped gym helped offset the challenges of overeating.

Faith Strong Passes Away on Thanksgiving Day, Nov 28, 1999

Faith Strong, the wife of George Strong who passed away in June this year, died at the

Thanksgiving day table of Mike and Sunny Strong. She had been suffering from

metastatic lung cancer and had received radiation therapy to relieve pain. She also had 

a partial lobectomy the previous year to remove a cancerous nodule. She lived her

whole life in Colfax, Washington and retired as the Operations Officer of U.S. Bank in

Colfax. She knew nearly every family in the area as a result of her work and her

gregarious nature. She and George were well known and loved through out the

community.   She was a unique person with a   wonderful memory for folklore. She will be missed.

Thanks to All, Mar 1, 2000

            Many thanks to the family for their participation in the ABC awards banquet. I was proud to have such a wonderful representation of my family and it was clearly impressive to all the attendees as well, considering the applause that you received. I would also like to thank Shane, who hasn't declared his interest in joining this illustrious group, but nevertheless, participated in the festivities. Perhaps the next family reunion will take place somewhere other than a Disney facility.

Blood Center Director receives Lifetime Achievement Award, Mar 8, 2000

D. Michael Strong, PhD, operations director for the Puget Sound Blood Center and a

Research professor at the University of Washington School of Medicine, recently received the prestigious Thomas F. Zuck Lifetime Achievement Award. This award,

bestowed by America’s Blood Centers (ABC) at it’s annual meeting, recognizes Dr.

Strong and Sally Caglioti, vice president of Blood Systems in Arizona, for their remarkable achievement in the implementation of nucleic acid testing (NAT) for half of the nation’s blood supply. NAT employs a new form of testing technology to improve the

safety of the blood supply through screening that directly detects the genetic material of

viruses like hepatitis C (HCV) and HIV, the virus which causes AIDS. 

Because NAT testing is more sensitive than current screening tests, it may reduce the

window of infectivity by as much as 60 days for HCV and 11 days for HIV. This test can

detect the presence of the virus before the body has time to produce antibodies to the

infection.

"Dr. Strong and Ms. Caglioti are two of the most impressive leaders in blood banking

today, notes Dr. Thomas Zuck, a pioneer researcher in the blood banking industry. 

"Together they oversaw implementation of the most complex and far-reaching event in blood screening history.   In less than a year they helped take NAT testing out of the

reference lab and into the real world of ABC’s member blood centers, under the largest

research protocol ever carried out under the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).   Their collaboration with Roche and Chiron/Gen-Probe made transfusions even safer by

reducing the window period for HCV and HIV," said Zuck.

Dr. Strong is a graduate of Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington and received

his PhD from The Medical College of Wisconsin.   He joined the Puget Sound Blood

Center in 1988, to establish the Northwest Tissue Center following 20 years in the Navy,

where he served as director of transplantation research for the Naval Medical Research

Institute and director of histocompatibility laboratories for the Army/Navy Transplant

Program. As a Navy Program Manager, he was responsible for assisting in the

establishment of The National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP). He was named director

of operations of the Blood Center in 1994.  

Dr. Strong is recognized internationally as one of the world’s leading experts in cell

cryopreservation and tissue banking.   

Founded in 1944, Puget Sound Blood Center provides blood, tissue and specialized

laboratory services to the majority of patients in Western Washington.

Founded in 1962, America's Blood Centers (ABC) is the national association of

nonprofit, independent community blood centers. ABC members are licensed and regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and provide half of  the nations blood supply.

            Strong Gathering On The Lake, May 27, 2000

June 24th the Strongs will gather to spend a week on Lake Couer d'Alene in Northern Idaho. A place has been selected on the south side of the Lake about 17 miles off I90 on Hwy 97. It sits up high over the lake with a western view for sunsets. A number of day trips are being discussed including Schweitzer, Rednours, Silverwood, with hiking, biking, horseback riding, swimming, boating, fishing and other activities planned. Sunny and the Rick Foulkes family will join in on Thursday the 29th. The cabin sleeps 12 and is

fully loaded with videos, puzzles, video games, and lots of room. It should be a blast.

Jul 3, 2000

            The vacation was a great success with all activities covered with the exceptions of biking (too tired), horseback riding (no horses). The fish in the lake are safe, although one fish had the harrowing experience of spending a few minutes in a bucket of water and being observed by members of the family before going back into the lake. Sydney Strong enjoyed the action with Davis and Ryan running about. We had great weather and good food to go along with the side trips to Silverwood, the Rednours, Kellog (to view the unmoving gondola) and the canoe trip along the lake shore. We look forward to another adventure in the future.

Strong Visits, Apr 28, 2002

            The much-traveled D.M. Strongs are fulfilling the family frolics. SS spent the weekend with daughter Trish in Scottsdale and the following weekend, D.M. spent a

day with David, Lisa and Sydney in Providence. Next weekend it's Mike, Davis and Ryan's turn as both spend a weekend with them and attend Davis' first communion. It's then off to Honolulu for a week on the beach and a visit with the Li family. Nothing like racking up those frequent flyer miles in order to spend them on more travel. On the way back from Providence, D.M. spoke with brother Rick from the Chicago airport to discover Rick in California about to get on a plane back to Chicago. We both waved at each other in the air as we passed going in opposite directions.          

Musical Memphis, Jul 25, 2002

            Mike and Sunny just returned from 6 days of warm (temperature!) warm (hospitality). Sunny is filing this report from Washington D.C. as we continue our July escapades.

Weekend nights strolling Beale Street were wonderful. Memphis citizens are so proud that blues, then rock and roll started on this street. The tradition continues with street, sidewalk and club bands; excellent sounds and soul. We were listening to music at B.B. Kings thinking how lucky we were to hear so many excellent musicians. When Mike asked what's up, we learned the musician at the mike is the younger brother of "little" Jimmy King who died that week at age 37. Each musician appeared on stage as a tribute to Jimmy who had been a B.B. King regular. It was poignant as they expressed their grief.

W.C. Handy, an earlier musician, has a park named after him with nightly music and dancing.

A youngish musician on the street with his band expressed frustration and anger that bands like his were being intimidated off the streets by clubs which felt they distracted from paid customers inside their clubs.

Teen boys, called "flippers" do flips in the middle of the street. Two of them did high, fancy flips inside B.B. Kings as a tribute to Jimmy. One blew out a candle on a table in midair!

One night we attended a fish fry benefit at the Center for Southern Folklife. This center celebrates the achievement of artisans:quilt-makers, cane benders and carvers, guitar makers, etc. That night 5 gospel singer groups performed. Their faith in God shone through their music as they made testimonies; again, a very poignant, personal experience. Maybe we're confused when we term our more objective museum exhibits as 'interactive'? We were welcomed from the mike as we joined the regulars in clapping and enjoying. I even had a Moonpie Sundae, mmmmmm.

I walked several blocks to the Civil Rights Museum. It's actually in the Lorraine Motel where Martin Luther King was assasinated on the balcony outside his room. When I arrived, I met a closed door and a notice that it was closed on Tuesdays! I must have looked crestfallen, as the security guard asked if he could help me. I explained we were leaving town the next day and I wanted to see this famous museum. He decided to let me in! I had the place to myself and spent two hours in painful recollection of man's inhumanity to man! Through videos, soundtracks, films, and life-size re-enactments, the visitor is swept back and jolted over and over again. The rhyme "Eeny meeny miney moe" repeats as a backdrop for all the exhibits. I boarded a real bus, sat down, and heard a recorded bus driver yell at me to give up my seat. You can see right into the room where he died. Wow! Coincidentally, our cab driver to the airport is an historian who belongs to the museum guild.

Just as in Atlanta, folks call each other 'baby' or 'mama'. I liked these warm

monikers!

We stayed at the historic Peabody Hotel where six mallard ducks live on the roof and march into the lobby fountain each morning to commemorate a prank from the owner/hunter years ago. We wished we had our grandchildren with us as they would have enjoyed this ritual.

The National Metal Ornament Museum

was fascinating. Here I learn of a Seattle

jewelry artist, Ramona Solberg as they

had a temporary exhibit of many of her

necklaces.

Graceland was quite a trip! We remember Elvis when he was in his gorgeous prime. Yeh, you had to have been there in the 60's. Many in our group of Blood Bankers remarked how surprisingly interesting this tour was. I knew I'd be interested, but they learned how altruistic Elvis was plus his dedication to his mother. He said the mansion was his mother's house, really. He wanted her to have something nice as they grew up poor.

Smiles and hugs are wonderfully prevalent in Memphis. I ate fried green tomatoes, greens, and real key lime pie. One restaurant comes with a hug from the proprietor! I was so thoroughly soaked from the humidity and heat, this was truly a charitable act!

My riverboat cruise on the Mississippi was nice, but it didn't provide the cool breezes I craved. Even on the water Memphis is sultry hot!

Dad and I loved the Gibson guitar factory. The blood bankers had a reception there after hours, so we had the place to ourselves plus an animated storytelling guide.

We left Memphis full of mosquito bites and warm + warm memories!        

                       

Drew Strong, Feb 17, 2003

Welcome to the newest member of the family, DrewRichard Strong was born at 1343 EST on Saturday, 15 Feb 2003 in Providence, RI and weighed in at 7 lbs 10 oz. Lisa and David are doing well and the whole family is back home. Sunny and Mike look forward to meeting the new Strong boy on the 26th when they fly in from D.C.

Mike Strong Appointed to BPAC, May 2, 2003

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently appointed Puget Sound Blood Center Executive Vice President Mike Strong, PhD, to its Blood Products Advisory Committee (BPAC). The committee is responsible for ensuring the safe and appropriate use of new products, technologies and medical devices in the treatment and prevention of human blood-based diseases. One of two non-voting 'industry representatives,' Strong will be a blood services expert on the committee. Strong was jointly nominated to the position by AABB, America's Blood Centers, the American Red Cross, the Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association, and was supported by AdvaMed.

“It’s an honor to represent the blood banking community’s perspective on the important issues relative to the nation’s blood supply,” Strong said. “Each year brings important new challenges and opportunities affecting transfusion therapy, whether it is the emergence of threats such as West Nile virus or the introduction of scientific and technological advances.”

According to a blood center press release, Strong was selected because of his prominent role in modern blood banking and extensive experience in transfusion and transplantation. His familiarity with critical topics such as West Nile virus (WNV), bacterial contamination and new testing methodologies are assets as well.

With more than 30 years of experience spanning blood and tissue banking, Strong is an internationally recognized authority in cellular cryopreservation, transplantation, transfusion medicine, and tissue banking, the release stated. He established the Northwest Tissue Center at Puget Sound Blood Center and helped implement the nucleic acid test (NAT) now used to screen the nation’s blood supply. Strong is a research professor for the Department of Surgery and Orthopedics at the University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle. During his career in the U.S. Navy, he headed the Naval Research Institute’s Clinical and Experimental Immunology Department and was instrumental in establishing the National Marrow Donor Registry.

Puget Sound Blood Center Press Release, Sep 13, 2003

PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

contact:   Steve McLean —  tel.: (206) 292-6511

email:

stevemc@psbc.org   pager: (206) 680-2610

Puget Sound Blood Center Executive Honored

by National Tissue Banking Organization

September 8, 2003, SEATTLE   -- The American Association of Tissue Banks (AATB), a scientific organization that sets the quality standards for tissue banking nationally, recently presented Mike Strong, Ph.D, executive vice president of operations at Puget Sound Blood Center and the founding Director of the Blood Center’s Northwest Tissue Center, with the prestigious George W. Hyatt Memorial Award. Conferred to Dr. Strong during the 27th annual AATB meeting in San Diego, California, Aug. 23-26, the award recognized Dr. Strong’s significant contributions to the advancement of tissue banking.

The Hyatt Award, first presented in 1995, is given each year to an individual scientist who has demonstrated exemplary research, teaching and service in the field of tissue banking, tissue transplantation or transplantation medicine. Past recipients of the award include noted scientists Julie Glowacki, Ph.D, director of Skeletal Biologyat Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts and Kenneth W. Sell, M.D., Ph.D, of Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta, Georgia.

“I am pleased to receive this acknowledgement on behalf of Northwest Tissue Center,” said Dr. Strong, just after the award ceremony. “The Hyatt Award has come to embody the high standards to which accredited tissue banks must strive in all aspects of tissue banking and transplantation. Since its founding more than 15 years ago, Northwest Tissue Center has upheld this standard and remains committed to the responsible stewardship of the community tissue supply.”

With more than 30 years of experience spanning blood and tissue banking, Dr. Strong is an internationally recognized authority in cellular cryopreservation, transplantation and transfusion medicine and tissue banking. He established the Northwest Tissue Center, a department of Puget Sound Blood Center in 1988 and later helped implement the nucleic acid test (NAT), now being used to screen half the nation’s blood supply.

A non-voting member of the Food and Drug Administration’s Blood Products Advisory

Committee, Dr. Strong also serves as a research professor for the Department of Surgery and Orthopaedics at the University of Washington School of Medicine.   Formerly, he had a distinguished career as a Naval Officer where he headed the Naval Research Institute’s Clinical and Experimental Immunology Department and was instrumental in establishing the National Marrow Donor Registry. 

Internationally, AATB has contributed its tissue banking expertise to the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) Tissue Bank program, which has contributed to the introduction of high quality standards of tissue banking to developing countries internationally by establishing tissue banks, training associated staff and developing

standards and regulatory guidelines.

AATB standardizes the operations of participating tissue banks throughout the United

States and to achieve nationally recognized uniform levels of safety and quality

NEW MEXICO                  10/6/03

         No wonder Georgia O’Keeffe reveled in the changing sky and awesome openness of this beautiful state. The shades and shadows of browns and greens provide a pallet all by themselves. Here one can see

forever. Weather patterns are observed from afar as they slowly creep towards you. One mountain range is soft ‘black-violet’ , an overlapping range  is the darkest green. Puffy clouds play in the sky and spread across the mountains.People spoke of returning to New Mexico just  because of its wonderful sky and moderate weather.

 The state faces poverty and alcoholism, the lack of jobs, and the disparity between the haves and  have-nots.

SANTA FE

         The Museum of Folk Art is a MUST see. It is one of three museums anchored by a lovely plaza plaza with sculptures, a labyrinth and gardens. One section houses a huge, delightful, smile-producing ,whimsical, eclectic collection of miniature dolls. Another shows gorgeous handwoven bue garments and blankets from several different countries.

The Georgia O’Keeffe Museum was much smaller than I had expected (and hoped). Much of her work is displayed elsewhere. Her husband, Edward Stieglitz’s photographs are presented as well. Quotes from O’Keeffe dot the walls and set the tone for appreciating her goals and inspirations. I was grateful I had seen several of her works in other venues and had read her biography. She succeeded in ‘shouting’ to us about the beauty of nature bu singling out one element. I love her comfort with  her body at all ages! Yes, those knarly hands are beautiful art forms.

I walked to Los Mayas” restaurant nearby. Perfect plantains, enchildas with cheese swimming under the mole sauce. Yum.

The city tour highlights: Very artsy, pedestrian friendly Canyon Road, St. Francis Cathedral, and the native American craftspeople on the veranda of the Governor’s House.

ALBUQUERQUE

         Kaori Lopez, the daughter of my lively, iconoclastic friend, Peggy James, spent the day showing me her new hometown. On the U. of NM campus, a  bodacious sculpture delighted me. Splashy bright colors, bold features on the dancing pair. It was harsh, earthy, and evocative!

We toured the Southwest history exhibit at the Archeology Museum on  Campus. Fascinating facts about New Mexico’s early inhabitants (1,000AD). This was good preparation for seeing the pueblos.

         Kaori chose a small casual restaurant which kindly offered a choice of fire power: Red Chile, Green Chile, No Chile. I chose a dab of green chile .When Kaori accidentally dropped her spoon, the waitress told us tradition means she will soon entertain a guest! Kaori’s husband grew up in the north of NM where time has stood still in many ways. It has modest ranch style or adobe homes, flashy 50’s of 60’s cars, omnipresent Catholic icons, all enjoyed by close extended families. They visit frequently.

BALLOONS!!!!!!!

         The alarm rings at 4am on this day I’ve anticipated  ever since I learned of the hot air balloon festival each October. We took a bus to the balloon launch area. It had rained the previous night, so the mass ascension of 750 balloons was at risk of being cancelled. We had an extra hour to wait as the launch was delayed. The silver lining? I had an hour to eat a yummy breakfast burrito (bacon, eggs, cheese and potatoes) plus buy an alpaca sweater coat from Peru.

         I was feeling sleepy and (therefore) crabby when the first balloons were inflated by butane torches. It was amazingly exciting to see the balloon fill out and take shape, then see the baskets tipped upright, helpers holding on to guidelines slowly enabling the balloon to be upright and ascending. The marvelous colors, designs, shapes were bedazzling! I forgot my crankiness.

CLIFF DWELLINGS AT BANDELIER NATIONAL MONUMENT

         After viewing a video and touring the mall museum, we walked along the ruins’ path, climbed wooden ladders leading to cave dwellings of the Anastazi Indians who lived there 1000-1200 AD. It is pleasantly humbling to see ancient ruins testifying to the intelligence and ingenuity of people before us. There is also a palpable sense of belief in a higher Being.

         Carl Bettinger and his wife hosted a dinner at a charming French bistro. We complimented the chef as we enjoyed our steaks and protiferoles. He then wrote us an introductory note to a Parisien chef because we mentioned our upcoming trip to Paris.

MYSTICAL LAST MORNING IN NM

         Imagine awakening in your high rise hotel, opening the curtains, seeing 150 vivid balloons floating at eye level. This was a magnificent adios to New Mexico!

End Of An Era: The Red Cricket, Mar 12, 2005

            Today marks the end of an era as Dorothea and Ken have sold the Red Cricket at Schweitzer for $145,000. The condo was purchased when Nancy was only 3 years old in 1964 (I seem to remember for about $8,900). It is hard to imagine not having a ski condo after so many years of family reunions, Christmas gatherings and countless ski outings for various family members. It is with mixed feelings that Dorothea leaves this place behind with so much work and care that has gone into the place. The whole family will have memories of great times on the mountain.

            The sale has fallen through as the buyer didn’t have the financing. The Cricket is back in the fold.

Kenny Foulkes in Terminal Condition, Jul 30, 2005

About three weeks ago Ken fell and hit his head. As a result he bled into his head which required surgery. On Tuesday, July 19 he was operated on to remove blood and relieve pressure on his brain. He came through well and was talking while in ICU and seemed fine. About 24-48 hours later he was no longer responding and unable to recognize anyone. He has been in that condition ever since. On Thursday, July 28, because of abnormal liver function tests, a scan was done and numerous tumors discovered. The doctors have declared that there is nothing more they can do for him. He is presently at Sacred Heart Hospital and is being kept as comfortable as possible. Nancy and family are making preparations for his final resting place which will be in the family plot on Michigan Prairie in Adams County where his grandparents were buried. People will be informed when he passes away and when a service will be scheduled.

            Tuesday night, Kenny Foulkes passed away. He never recovered from his operation and died of liver failure. His mother was in Spokane to see him on the day he died and Dorothea was with him at the end. We will miss him and his support for the family. Services will be announced later.

Kenny Foulkes Obituary, Aug 14, 2005

Kenny Foulkes, 79, Spokane resident, formerly of the Lind and Othello area, passed away in Spokane, WA on August 7,

2005. Kenny was born February 6, 1926 in Spokane, Washington to John Foulkes and Naomi (Foulkes) Pittman. He graduated in 1944 from Lewis and Clark High School in Spokane, Washington. He was active in school athletics, serving as Captain of the football team and lettering in track. Kenny held various offices during his school years. As a Technical Sergeant in Korea, he received an Army Commendation Ribbon. He returned to wheat farming in Adams County where he worked for the next four decades.

Kenny played town team baseball in Kahlotus, Washington and enjoyed snow and water skiing activities. Elected to four terms as Adams County Commissioner, he served as Adams County chair for Congressional and Gubernatorial candidates including Tom Foley and Dan Evans. He was a member of the Executive Board of the Washington State Association of County Commissioners. He volunteered for Republican Committees and Caucuses and other community boards in Adams County. He served as President and as an active member of the Adams County Wheat Growers Association.

As a resident of Othello for over thirty years, Kenny participated in Lions Club and other community projects.

In retirement, Kenny never missed a Lewis and Clark Class reunion; enjoyed watching local high school sports, Gonzaga University basketball, playing golf, skiing and campaigning for local politicians in the Spokane area. Mother Naomi Pittman, brother Donald Foulkes, sister Irene Cornwell, and Dorothea Foulkes survive him. Four children:

Sons: Michael Strong, Bill Foulkes, Richard Foulkes, daughter Nancy McKinnon, nine grandchildren and six great grandchildren.

Dorothea Suffers Stroke, Aug 23, 2005

On Thursday night the 18th of August 2005, Dorothea suffered a stroke while staying at the Schweitzer condo. Unfortunately she wasn't discovered until Saturday morning at which time she was rushed to the hospital in Sandpoint. She had several friends who stayed with her until her sons Bill, Rick and Mike arrived to assist. Initially it looked very difficult but she has since been awake and seems to be recognizing people. She has lost her speech and has partial loss of her right hand and leg. Tuesday morning she was flown to Harborview Medical Center (HMC) in Seattle, considered to be the second best stroke treatment center in the country. Rick was on the medical evacuation plane with her and has assisted getting her admitted. Mike and Sunny have stayed in Spokane for a few days to work on arrangements for care of her house and consolidation of   her finances. Bill is driving back to Seattle to be available for support. The prognosis has improved each day but we await tests being done at HMC. Everyone should keep her in their prayers. 

Aug 25, 2005

This morning the family heard a report on Dorothea from Dr. Mark Piker at Harborview. This afternoon, Rick and Bill report that she smiled at them! Tonight Nancy noted that Dorothea seemed tired, but turned to hear their voices and smiled when her grandson, David spoke.

Dorothea had a major embolic stroke. It affected her internally and externally, leaving her right side paralyzed. Her vision, mobility and speech were affected. The Doppler test showed blood flow through the neck of 16-49%. There was damage to the pca arteries. It was difficult to get a trans-cranial Doppler reading as the bone is too thick. (Normal in older people) The cause of the stroke may have been atrial fibrillation. She may have had a blood clot travel to her brain.

She can move her left side and her head. In order to qualify for intensive (3 hrs./day) physical therapy, she would have to be stronger, be able to speak, be able to swallow (she now needs an IV and feeder tube), and be more alert. Therefore, an intermediate rehabilitation is in order.

She will be at Harborview a few more days,then be transferred to a skilled nursing facility where she will receive rehab therapy for speech, vision, and mobility. We are following the leads which the social worker gave us to find a place good enough for our elegant Dorothea! She needs ongoing mobilization and is receiving care from a PT and an OT at Harborview.

I do not get the impression that she can see and delight in flowers at this point. She LOVES having someone hold her left hand. It's clearly comforting to her. I'm guessing, that perfection would be having someone holding her hand anytime she's awake so don't hesitate to visit.

Aug 27, 2005

We are learning the truth of one doctor's description of a stroke victim having good and bad days. Dorothea is sometimes more alert than other times. During the last two days, we have seen evidence that she hears well, has some sight in her left eye, can reach out with her left arm, and, best of all, smile. Then, another visit she is less responsive. She has also had tears so we know she is frustrated with her situation and it is also difficult for the family to watch this.

Today, she could not pass the hospital's swallow test. They will test her again on Monday. If she cannot swallow, she needs a feeding tube. She tends to pull it out, so this is not a great solution. She may need to have a tube inserted directly into her stomach next week. This is not a long-term solution however.

We are touring skilled nursing facilities where she could receive rehab when released from Harborview. Looks like this won't be for a few more days. We have some viable options as there are openings in some nearby centers.

I still don't know how much she sees. She seems to notice the TV, so might notice flowers? She brightens her expression when she hears voices, even from a cell phone. It was wonderful to see her reach out, grab the cell phone and put it to her ear, then

smile when she heard a voice she recognized. She   talked to several family members today.

We are going to have some difficult decisions to make in the near future.

Aug 29, 2005

            Today was not a good day for us. She had a swallow test today which she failed. It was given a second time after I left and she again failed. She is not taking anything and has no desire to swallow. She actually spit out the ice cube offered to her. She can't communicate although she tries to cooperate. She has limited motion on the left side only and seems to be in a lot of pain which is unexplained. She has intermittent periods of moaning and attempts at speaking and tears, all of which are extremely painful for all to observe. The Neurologist feels that there is likely no long-term possibility for her to talk due to the severity of her stroke. The Speech pathologist thinks she may be able to swallow in a few months, which would mean inserting a stomach tube to feed her. She is not following commands although she still reaches out with her left hand to hold hands. We have a family conference tomorrow to discuss what to do next and whether it is time to give her some peace. We all feel that her wishes should be respected which were clearly stated to each of us that she didn't want to be in this situation. Our recent experience with Ken gave her the opportunity to state that position over and over again. It is a wrenching decision to have to make but I think it is in her best interests to let her go.

Aug 30, 2005

We had our conference today with the Medical staff at Harborview Medical Center. It was a long and difficult discussion about Dorothea's condition and likely long term outcomes. We also found out that the reason she has been in so much pain is that she suffered a fractured hip when she fell. Unfortunately, this was unrecognized until last night when they finally x-rayed her hip at my request.

We have decided to let her go as I feel this is what she wanted based on: her previous discussions with us, her experience with Ken, and her living will. Bill, Nancy and Sunny agreed with this.

Unfortunately Rick doesn't agree with this decision and argued strenuously to give her more time. I simply wanted to honor Mom's wishes and give her a comfortable and familiar place for her last days. She has lots of friends and family in the Spokane area where she will receive lots of loving care during her last days. It will also give her friends and family the opportunity to say goodbye and share their love. Bill is trying to make arrangements to be her 24 hour companion and I am seeing what arrangements I can make to be there as much as possible. Sunny and I will be driving to Spokane on Friday 9/2 and staying until Monday 9/5.The hospital is trying to arrange to transport her to Greystone Lane on Friday 9/2. They are helping us arrange hospice care in her home. Our three children hope to be in Spokane the week of Sept.9-17.

We will need everyone's support to get through these next one to two weeks.

Aug 31, 2005

            Plans are now in place for moving Dorothea to her home on Friday. Sunny and I will be driving to Spokane Thursday night in order to be at her house when Hospice delivers their equipment. Dorothea will arrive sometime Friday afternoon. Rick and Rita

are also coming on Friday and Bill on Saturday. Although plans are not firm, we all are likely to stay until the end. She has been given more pain medication because of her hip fracture and this makes her sleepy and less responsive. Dorothea is likely to be less aware of her surroundings as the days go by and thus we suggest that if you want to say your farewells, sooner would be better. it will be a day by day situation. We want to celebrate her life and remember the good times and wonderful and full life that she has had

Sep 5, 2005

Dorothea is at home with her family and friends. Hospice staff train, coach and advise us. It is poignant and beautiful. It is also stressful and heartbreaking as there are times in between meds when we need to move her and this is uncomfortable, so today we are getting a new device to make the meds more constantly effective.

Rick and Rita, our MD's have been guiding us. Bill and Justin, her niece, Diana and her sister Donna are mainstays in her support. Hospice responds within 15 minutes 24/7. What a help!

Her brother and family drove here yesterday. Her cousin flew here today. A constant flow of friends visits to say good-bye and share reminiscences. We are interviewing them on videotape.

The delicious food and encouragement from many neighbors and friends and family are precious gifts. We are getting larger! We are hearing from them that we are doing the right thing for this elegant, independent lady by rejecting the nursing home alternative.

There is an air of celebration of Dorothea and family. Once in awhile, Dorothea smiles as she recognizes a familiar voice.

This is incredibly sweet! Fr. Mark of Harborview, anointed her before she left Seattle.

Just as her life gave us nerve to follow our dreams, so her dying inspires.

           

Sep 6, 2005

Thank you so much, Mike.   This is quite unbelievable.   We feel for your family.   I will pass this message on to the Prime Timers.   You have a beautiful mother that has been an example not only to me but to so many others.   Her indomitable spirit is to be admired.   She has, in the years we have known her, been such a fine friend and ski buddy to many.   Her spirit will be missed on the slopes and in many other venues, I am sure. 

I hope to meet you some day.

Sincerely,

Wendy Aeschliman

Secretary,

Prime Timers

Sep 10, 2005

            It is Saturday, September 10th and Dorothea is still peaceful and sleeping. We had a wonderful family get together last night with a Rosary at her Parish and the Rednour cousins providing music. Several people provided recognition of Dorothea's life and afterwards we gathered at her home and sang one of the songs for her. There was food and lots of pictures taken of family. At some point we will put together pictures and video to share. Currently we expect to stay with her until she passes and then make arrangements for another social gathering to celebrate her life.

Sep 11, 2005

Obituary Dorothea G. Foulkes 1920-2005

3814 S. Greystone Lane   Spokane, WA

Dorothea Gwenith (Rednour) Foulkes, was fond of saying, “Que sera, sera” (What will be, will be). She accepted what happened and, with tireless energy, adapted to circumstances, always looking for opportunities. She was an instant friend to each person she met.

Born July 2, 1920, to the late Roy and Lottie Rednour, she grew up on a farm near Usk, Wash., left her family as a teen-ager and moved to Newport where she worked for a family while attending school. A great believer in education, she was

the first in her family to graduate from high school and encouraged her children to pursue learning. All four children attended college and two became doctors. Although she didn’t get her wish to become a classroom teacher, she exhibited an extraordinary thirst for new experiences, whether at home or abroad. 

During World War II, she moved to Spokane, Wash., and found work in the marketing department of the Spokesman-Review selling classified ads. At the end of the war, she remarried and began raising her family in Spokane. She also lived in Cusick, Wash., Chewelah, Wash., Lind, Wash., and Othello, Wash. She returned to Spokane in 1994, where she lived until her death.

Skiing, golf, dancing, reading, travel and the Spokane Symphony gave her much pleasure. Many winter weekends andholidays were spent at Schweitzer Mountain in Sandpoint, Idaho.

She participated in the lives of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, infusing them with her zest for life, goals and adventure. Her friends meant the world to her.

Dorothea spoke of how lucky she was to have such a great life and she lived it to the fullest, always impressing people with her energy. She naturally gravitated toward volunteer work, whether traveling from the Foulkes Farm throughout the state promoting Expo `74; planting red, white and blue flowers in Othello for the bicentennial; or beautifying the entrance to her Birkdale neighborhood. The Othello Library and Harvard Park seniors benefited from her generous spirit, as did the Spokane music community.

Dorothea died at her home in Spokane on Sept. 11, 2005, surrounded by her family. She is survived by her former husband Wilbur A. Jaehn, of   Monrovia, Calif.; her sister Donna L. Bordi, of Spokane, her brother Robert R. Rednour, of Usk; her children and their spouses: Douglas Michael and Sunny Strong, of Edmonds, Wash.; William D. Foulkes, of Marysville, Wash.,; Richard B. and Rita Foulkes, of Riverside, Ill. and Nancy Ann and Craig McKinnon, of Kirkland, Wash.; nine grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Her parents and former husbands George

Strong and Kenny Foulkes preceded her in death.

If you wish to make a donation in her name, please send it to: All Saints School, 3520 E. 18th Ave., Spokane, WA 99223 or to The Spokane Symphony, (509) 326-3136.

A rosary was said in Dorothea’s honor on Friday, Sept. 9, 2005, at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Spokane.

There will be a celebration of her life on Saturday, Sept. 17, 2005, from 1 to 3 p.m., at the Manito Golf and Country Club,

5303 South Hatch Road, in Spokane.

Mudslide Takes out the Red Cricket,

            Mudslide Rips Through Red Cricket Condos

Posted: Thursday, May 18, 2006 - 09:18:17 am PDT By KEITH KINNAIRD

News editor

SANDPOINT -- A mudslide tore through the Red Cricket condominium complex on Schweitzer Mountain on Wednesday.

There were no injuries, according to Bonner County Sheriff Elaine Savage. Two people had been staying in the complex,

although neither was home when the hillside behind the three-story complex broke loose at about 5:30 p.m.

"They were not in the building at the time and both have been accounted for," Savage said.

The surge of mud, snow and power lines punched a hole through the back of the complex and spewed onto Schweitzer Mountain Road. The bottom level of the complex is made up of garages and Savage said eight of them were destroyed.

Most of the damaged appeared to be confined to the ground level, although there was some damage to the second floor. The slide seemed to hit the building dead-center and the void created by the slide caused the roof of the building to sag.

The sound of the hillside giving way was loud enough to be heard inside the Selkirk Lodge in Schweitzer Mountain Resort's village.

"It sounded like a lightning strike or a log truck tipping over," said Jennifer Fortune, a year-round Schweitzer resident. "I looked out and I could see the boulders rolling down the hill and I could see mud sliding."

The Red Cricket is located just below the mountain resort's main parking area. It was the first condo complex on the mountain and some even regard it as the first condo complex in Idaho.

Real estate listings say the Red Cricket was built in 1963, the year Schweitzer Mountain Resort first opened to the public. But Sam Wormington, who was the resort manager when it opened, said it was actually built in 1964.

"They didn't start that until later, after the ski area started," Wormington said.

Wormington said the building was designed by Spokane, Wash., architect Grant Groesbeck, who designed the resort's first guest lodge. Painted on a wood sign on the chimney is a facsimile of Jiminy Cricket, perhaps best known from the 1940 Walt

Disney film, "Pinocchio."

The cause of the mudslide was still being determined late Wednesday, Savage said. Northern Lights crews were trying to restore power on the mountain and damage to gas infrastructure was not immediately clear.

Bystanders who gathered near the scene speculated the slide might have been triggered by excavation being done for a new housing project being built almost directly above the Red Cricket. Savage said it's not known if the Red Cricket will survive the direct hit it took.

"We'll leave that to the engineers and contractors," she said.

May 19, 2006

There is something bizarre about the loss of the Crickett within the same year as the loss of Dorothea and Ken. They bought their condo the year it was built in 1963 and enjoyed over 40 years of skiing and family entertainment there. I called it the end of an era when they almost sold it last year and again when we sold it after their passing. It is truely the case now with the passing of the Cricket. A follow up news story in the Spokane newspaper suggests that it will not be salvageable. The fact that Mom had her fatal stroke there and said that, when she went, she hoped it  would be on the mountain, somehow makes this a final closure on a lifetime.

A Day of Remembrance, Sep 11, 2006

This is the 5th anniversary of the attack in New York, Washington DC and Pennsylvania and many ceremonies are taking place today to memorialize the victims of those events. It is also a day for our family to take a moment of silence in honor of Dorothea, our mother, grandmother, aunt, sister and friend since this is the first anniversary of her death. It is very like her to pick a day that we will not be able to forget. I want to take the occasion to thank everyone in the family as well as others who have given us so much support in our moments of sorrow and have celebrated her life and all that she has given to us.

Love, Mike

Mike Strong, Prez , Oct 30, 2006,

Cheers- Mike has been preparing to be president of this blood bank association since the early days. He has networked himself into a position where he'll have additional opportunities to improve practices. I'm proud of him!

Sunny

Lauren Dorothea Strong-Albers, Nov 5, 2006

            Lauren was born Thursday at 1818 and weighed in at 9 lbs and 11 Oz. both Mom and baby did well and are home this Sunday.

            Wow are you big! We could not be happier to have you as part of the family Laruen! You are so beautiful!

We can't wait to meet you in person!

Take good care of your beautiful Mom and your doting Dad.

Also go easy on those old people, your Granma and Grampa. They have waited a long time for you! You are going to have a lot of fun with them!

Your cousins can't wait to meet you!

All our love to you Lauren. WE ARE SO HAPPY!

Uncle Rick and aunt Rita

Sunny's Book, Apr 13, 2007

Children's Books: A Practical Guide to Selection By Phyllis J. Van Orden and Sunny Strong 1-55570-584-7 . 2007 . 8.5 x 11 . 243 pp. Make better book choices with more confidence! So many books. So little time. So many needs. So little budget. If this describes your situation, here's a new book to help you approach book selection confidently and strategically. If you are new to the library environment, in charge of training new librarians or paraprofessionals, or looking for new ideas in collection development, this resource is a must-have. Phyllis Van Orden, a past president of both the Association for Library Services to Children and the Association for Library and Information Science Education, and Sunny Strong share their advice for: • Establishing general criteria and following guidelines • Choosing diverse material • Using selection tools effectively • Special selection criteria for specific genres, including picture books, fiction, genre fiction, folk literature, rhymes, and poetry • Special guidelines for selecting particular subjects You ’ll learn how to: • Ask the right questions • Probe the intellectual content of the subject • Examine the worth (quality, value, merit) of a book • Verify the bottom line —is it worth the price?

Blood Center Executive Vice President and COO to Retire, Jul 27, 2007

July 25, 2007   SEATTLE —  D. Michael Strong, PhD, Puget Sound Blood Center executive vice president, operations and COO, has announced his intention to retire October 31, 2007—coinciding with the end of his term as AABB president.   The public announcement follows succession planning by the Blood Center’s executive team as Dr. Strong completes nearly two decades of Blood Center leadership. 

“Dr. Strong is an extraordinary leader, whose vision and commitment significantly contributed to the success of our organization during his nearly 20-year career at the Puget Sound Blood Center,” says Dr. Richard B. Counts, president and CEO, Puget Sound Blood Center.   “He has made a remarkable contribution to the growth and continuing momentum of our Blood Center and our industry. We owe him a big debt of gratitude for his dedication and passion,” Dr. Counts continued.

Dr. Strong joined Puget Sound Blood Center in 1988 to establish the Northwest Tissue Center, now known as Northwest Tissue Services at Puget Sound Blood Center.   In its nearly twenty years of operation, The Blood Center’s Northwest Tissue Services has provided more than 100,000 allografts transplanted to patients throughout the country and abroad, with 90 percent going to patients in the Northwest. In addition, Tissue Services has trained tissue bankers from around the world, establishing an international reputation in the process.

Following his success in launching the Blood Center’s world-renowned Tissue Services, Dr. Strong was appointed director of laboratories for the entire Blood Center in 1992, director of operations in 1994 and executive vice president of operations in 2000, before being named chief operating officer in 2005.

His leadership and pioneering spirit have been honored twice with lifetime achievement awards.   In 2000 America’s Blood Centers presented Dr. Strong with the Thomas F. Zuck Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his contributions to the implementation of nucleic acid testing used for detection of infectious disease markers in the nation’s blood supply.   In 2003, he received a second lifetime achievement award, the George W. Hyatt Memorial Award, from the American Association of Tissue Banks. 

Dr. Strong is a graduate of Gonzaga University, Spokane, Wash., and received his PhD from The Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee. He began his career in 1965 as the supervisor of the Blood Bank, Hematology and Serology Departments in the Clinical Laboratory of the 1,600-bed Naval Hospital, Philadelphia. During 15 years of research at the Naval Medical Research Institute, he was involved in the establishment of the organ and bone marrow transplantation units of the Army and Navy, histocompatibility, clinical immunology and tissue banking programs at the Naval Medical Center, and the initiation of the National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP). He was a Professor in the Department of Surgery at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences until his retirement from the Navy in 1985 to become vice president of Research and Development of Genetic Systems Corp., a Seattle biotech company.   In addition to his current position at the Blood Center he is also a research professor in the Department of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine and the Department of Surgery at the University of Washington.

The Food and Drug Administration appointed Dr. Strong to its Blood Products Advisory Committee (BPAC) in 2003 and he has served as a reviewer of the research program of the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER) and the Transfusion Service of the NIH. He is recognized as one of the world's leading experts in cell cryopreservation and tissue banking, and has served on numerous boards and committees including the American Association of Tissue Banks, which he assisted in founding in 1976, and the Northwest Organ Procurement Agency. He is currently president of the AABB and has been instrumental in establishing a U.S. Biovigilance Network in collaboration with several government agencies including the CDC.

Following his retirement, Dr. Strong plans to continue part time consulting with organizations he’s been involved with during his forty-plus year career.

About Puget Sound Blood Center

Puget Sound Blood Center is an independent, community-based regional resource recognized internationally for its research and medical and blood and tissue services. Known as the leader in transfusion medicine, Puget Sound Blood Center operates the world's largest transfusion service as well as patient-focused research programs and specialized laboratory services in support of transfusion and transplantation services. Patients with leukemia, cancer, burns, hemophilia and traumatic injuries depend on the breakthrough discoveries made by Blood Center scientists.

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Jerry O'Melveny, Sep 12, 2008

            Gerald Richard O'Melveny Jr, born 11 November 1946, passed away on Sunday at 3:36 pm, 8 Sept 2008, at the Hospice Center in Spokane, WA. He had been on dialysis for 8 years and his quality of life had deteriorated to the extent that he made the decision to bring his life to a close. His passing was very peaceful, in fact the staff said it was the most peaceful they had ever seen (a photo is attached). He died holding Sunny's hand as she sang to him. His sister Peggy had spent all of the time there with him but had gone to make funeral arrangements along with his former wife Maureen who was also constantly at this side during his stay at Hospice. Peggy will be writing an obituary which will be shared. She has looked after his affairs for many years which is greatly appreciated by the family.

O’Melveny Jr, Gerald R. “Jerry” (Age 61) born November 11, 1946; passed away September 8, 2008.   He is survived by his sons: Robert “Rob” O’Melveny of Seattle, Brendan O’Melveny of New York City; daughters: Shakti Heather O’Melveny of Missoula, MT,   Erin O’Melveny Madden of Fairfax, IA, Theresa O’Melveny of Melbourne, Australia; his children’s mother, Maureen O’Melveny of Spokane; seven grandchildren: Tiffany Nelson, Allisa O’Melveny, Matthew, Trent, Bowen, Lorant and Anaya Madden; sisters: Pattie O’Melveny Li of Mililani Town, HI, Sunny O'Melveny Strong of Edmonds, WA, Diana O’Melveny Keenan of Portland, OR, Margaret “Peggy” O’Melveny Branaman of Bainbridge Island, WA; and numerous nieces and nephews.   Jerry was preceded in death by his parents: Gerald R. and Ann F. O’Melveny and his son, Lorne O’Melveny.   Jerry was a lifetime resident of Spokane.   He had a lifelong love of drama, art and writing and was an advocate for the mentally ill.   He was a lay Franciscan (Order of St. Francis).   He attended Gonzaga Prep and graduated from Gonzaga University.   A Vigil Service will be held Monday, September 29, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home.   Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday, September 30, at 9:30 a.m. at St. Charles Catholic Church, 4515 N. Alberta.   Interment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, 7200 N. Wall St.   Memorial contributions may be made to Catholic Charities, PO Box 1453, Spokane WA 99210-1453.