Aging Well in the Gorge February 6th 2018

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It’s February, that time when you find out whether you paid Uncle Sam too much or not enough. There are many excellent tax preparers in the Mid-Columbia region, but if your tax situation is relatively simple, there is free help available through AARP Tax Aide. Since Tax Aide is supported by the AARP Foundation but also other federal and private grants that focus on helping low to moderate income persons or families equally, Tax Aide cannot give preference to any particular age group.
Tax Aide started last weekend and will continue through April 14th. In the area, there are three Tax Aide sites: The Center from 2:00 – 6:00 on Fridays and 9:00 – 1:00 on Saturdays; Tygh Valley Community Center from 9:00 – 1:00 pm on Thursdays, and the Rufus Community Center in Sherman County on Saturdays where you’ll need to call 541-993-1054 to make an appointment.
For your Tax Aide appointment, you’ll need to bring several documents: last year’s tax return; government issued identification for both tax payer and spouse even if both are not present when the taxes are being prepared; and a Social Security identification card (original, photocopy or a photo on your smartphone) for all individuals listed on the tax return.
And finally, don’t forget the obvious: all tax documents or statements that show income received and all tax documents or itemized statement that show expense incurred by you and your family.
One benefit of getting older is that there are some things you just don’t have to do anymore. For example, I’ve met more folks my age who tell me they don’t drive at night anymore. But I’ve realized as I was driving to Portland after dark, you must be out of your mind to want to drive at night – no matter your age! Think about it. The dark stretches of road where you can only see as far as your high beams reach; the barely visible street markings, the blinding headlights of oncoming traffic, and I won’t even mention the fun of driving through the rain in the dark.
How did I ever think that was such a pleasure? And now if I don’t need to drive at night, I can say to myself, “No, I think I’ll pass” and enjoy the evening at home with my wife.
Whether you are a railroad buff or not, you should check out the second of the annual February Regional History Forums at the Original Wasco County Museum on February 10th starting at 1:30 p.m. Retired math teacher Loren Delaney, who was born in The Dalles and raised in Wishram, will present “Fourteen Miles on the Spokane, Portland and Seattle Railroad” – a tour of north shore railroad history between mile posts 94 and 108.
A couple quick reminders since I hear all too often, “I was planning on coming to (fill in the blank), but I forgot!”
The International Chicken Dinner is this Friday, February 9th from 5:00 – 7:00 sponsored by The Springs at Mill Creek and prepared by Rick Leibowitz with assistance from the Baldwin Saloon and desserts from Petite Provence. The cost is $20 per person and only 200 tickets are being sold.
And Kerry Cobb, Executive Director of the Columbia Center for the Arts, will be speaking about “The Art & History of Photography” at the Center on Wednesday, February 7th at 10:30. Learn about the origins of the photographic arts and experience the work of noted photographers.
The American who won a 1932 Olympic swimming gold medal and starred in the science fiction film serial Flash Gordon was Buster Crabbe. (I received correct answers from Sandy Haechrel, who also remembers Buster Crabbe as Tarzan, Joanne Scott and this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket, Kay Tenold.)
For this week’s “Remember When” question, what was the name of the type of British-French turbojet-powered supersonic passenger jet airliner that had a maximum speed over twice the speed of sound and was first flown in 1969? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or send it with a 1997 New York to London round trip ticket on this type of airliner which cost at the time only $7,995.
Well, it’s been another week, enjoying this unusually mild winter weather. Until we meet again, remember forgetfulness isn’t a memory problem, it is just a retrieval problem.

“The universe is under no obligation to make sense to you.” Neil DeGrasse Tyson

Aging Well in the Gorge January 30th 2018

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When we were younger we didn’t spend much time thinking about our purpose in life. We knew what it was: find a job, get married and raise a family – at least that was what we were told.
But now that the children have left home to find a job, get married and raise a family – at least that is what we told them; and we have retired from the obligation of work, what is our purpose now?
To help answer that question, The Dalles Blue Zones Project is offering a Purpose Workshop at the Center on Tuesday, February 6th starting at 5:30. The Purpose Workshop will help you discover a clear definition of your gifts and identify ways you can use those gifts every day, either through existing or new avenues in your lives – such as volunteering. Through this process you can deepen your sense of purpose and find greater meaning in your life, significantly impacting your health, happiness, and longevity – even at our age. You can RSVP for the workshop at http://go.bluezonesproject.com/tdpurpose01or via Facebook.
Thanks to financial support from Columbia Basin Care Facility and The City of The Dalles, new flooring has finally been installed in the Center’s dining room. And at the same time, the upstairs restrooms have been remodeled with new flooring, and a fresh coat of paint; and they should have new sinks and faucets installed by the end of this week. Thanks to our local contractors for doing a fantastic job including Oliver’s Floor Covering, Garry Denney Floor Covering, Devco Mechanical and Terray Harmon Painting. And a big thank-you to Jess Birge for helping to reinstall the newly painted restroom stalls.
And why not check out the new dining room floor and remodeled restrooms when you stop by the Center to purchase your tickets for the International Chicken Dinner on February 9th from 5:00 – 7:00 sponsored by The Springs at Mill Creek. The price for this one-of-kind dinner prepared by Rick Lebowitz with assistance from the Baldwin Saloon and desserts from Petite Provence is only $20. But hurry. Only 200 tickets are being sold!
When we were youngsters, our mothers would often tell us as we left for school, “Don’t forget to take your lunch!”  And now that we are oldsters at the other end of the age continuum, your spouse may tell you as you head for the store, “Don’t forget the lettuce!”
It seems no matter our age, we need reminders. So here is a quick reminder about the first installment of the annual February Regional History Forum at the Original Wasco County Museum, located at 410 W. Second Place. On February 3rd starting at 1:30 p.m, Susan Buce, local historian and Collections Registrar for the Discovery Center, will present “Airmail Beacons of the Columbia River Gorge” – a fascinating look back at a little-known part of Gorge history. The Airmail beacons served to guide the pilots who flew the mail by air from coast to coast in the 1930’s; and were maintained by “mechanicians” who kept the blinking lights shining for the pilots to see.
Kerry Cobb, Executive Director of the Columbia Center for the Arts, will be back at the Center on Wednesday, February 7th at 10:30 to present a 90-minute talk on “The Art & History of Photography”. You will learn about the origins of the photographic arts, and experience the work of noted photographers from the 19th-21st century.
The 1973 film that told the story of two con-artists involved in a complicated plot to scam a mob boss was The Sting. (The only correct answer I received was from world traveler Sandy Haechrel, this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket.)
This week’s “Remember When” question comes from one of those conversations I can’t remember with whom or why I had it – and it was only last week! What American won a 1932 Olympic swimming gold medal and starred in the science fiction film serial Flash Gordon? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or send it with a short description of the planet Mongo.
Well, it’s been another week, wondering if we are going to escape the winter without any more snow. Until we meet again, everything seems to take longer than you think – but, it’s not like we don’t have the time.
“The mystery of human existence lies not in just staying alive, but in finding something to live for.”

― Fyodor Dostoyevsky, The Brothers Karamazov

Aging Well in the Gorge January 23rd 2018

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Scams have been around ever since a con-artist in the Middle Ages tried to sell a pig in a poke. But with the advances in communication through the Internet and social media, today’s scams are more common and sophisticated. And because older adults may not be as aware of the threats and how to prevent them; and yet are thought to have significant financial resources, they are a prime target.
Below is a quick listing of the top 10 financial scams collected by the National Council on Aging. See if you have been the target of any of these scams.
1.) Fraudulent anti-aging products – what we pay to look 40 again! 2.) Internet fraud – emails to “update” or “verify” your personal information. 3.) Investment schemes – from pyramid schemes to the Nigerian prince scam. 4.) Homeowner/reverse mortgage scams. 5.)  Counterfeit prescription drugs on the Internet – lose your money and harm your health at the same time. 6.) Sweepstakes and lottery scams – there is no free lunch. 7.) Funeral & cemetery scams – scammers read obituaries and call the grieving spouse claiming the deceased had an outstanding debt with them. 8.) The grandparent scam – starts with “Hi Grandma, do you know who this is?” and then the caller asks for money.
And two of the more prominent scams.
 9.) The Telemarketing/phone charity scams. If you are unsure of a charity, you can check how it is rated by Charity Navigator: an online site that reviews non-profits. And do not follow any links within the email or open any attachments particularly if they claim to contain pictures of a tragedy. These attachments may contain viruses.
10.) Medicare scams. Since we are of that certain age, Medicare is a common source for many scams targeting older adults. In one scam, the caller says your insurance company owes you a refund and they need your bank account number and Social Security number to deposit it.
A more recent scam focuses on the new ID card all Medicare recipients will receive sometime between April 2018 and April 2019. The Federal Trade Commission is warning Medicare recipients that if someone calls to confirm your personal information on the card, or says you must pay a fee to receive the new card, it’s a scam.
Be aware of how to protect yourself from these hucksters who want to separate you from your money. And when you do want to give your money away, find a local non-profit. There are many who need the financial help.
During the month of February, the Center is planning several special events highlighting the Center’s role of “enriching the community by sharing and caring”. One of those events is a special International Chicken Dinner prepared by Rick Lebowitz with assistance from the Baldwin Saloon. It will be held at the Center on Friday, February 9th from 5:00 – 7:00 PM. You can purchase your tickets at the Center, but only 200 tickets will be sold at $20 a piece so you should purchase your tickets soon. Because of our generous sponsor, The Springs at Mill Creek, every penny of the ticket sales will go to support the Center.
Maybe it was just because I dated a theater major when I attended Purdue University that I knew the answer to last week’s question. But the French actor and mime who performed all over the world to spread the “art of silence” was Marcel Marceau. (The only correct answer I received was from Jess Birge, who may or may not have dated a theater major, but is this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket.)
This week’s “Remember When” question is about the ultimate con film which was released in 1973 and won seven Oscars including Best Picture. What was the name of the movie set in September 1936 that told the story of two con-artists involved in a complicated plot to con a mob boss? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or send it with a recording of the Scott Joplin melody “The Entertainer”.
Well, it’s been another week, listening to the conversations in my head. Until we meet again, it’s not the first step that’s the most important, it’s the next step.

“Cats have a scam going – you buy the food, they eat the food, they go away; that’s the deal.” Eddie Izzard

Aging Well in the Gorge January 16th 2018

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Last week I heard this parable of a Chinese farmer.
One day a farmer’s horse ran away. His neighbor hears of his bad news and comes over to commiserate. “I hear that you lost your horse. That is bad news.”
Well, the next day the farmer’s horse returns to his stable, and has brought back nine wild horses. The neighbor across the way can’t believe what he hears and decides to come over and congratulate him. “This is such good news,” he says.
“Good news, bad news, who’s to say,” said the farmer.
The next day the farmer’s son decided to ride one of the wild horses, and as luck would have it, the son was thrown from the horse and broke his leg. Of course, upon hearing this sad news, their neighbor came over to offer condolences. “This is such bad news,” he said.
“Bad news, good news, who’s to say,” said the farmer.
On the following day soldiers came by commandeering an army. They took sons from most of the surrounding farms, but because the farmer’s son had a broken leg, he could not go and was spared.
The neighbor comes running over and says, “Yes! This is such good news; how lucky you are!”
And the farmer replies, “Good news, bad news, who’s to say?”
Have you experienced “bad news” from which you later found some “good news”? This parable of the Chinese farmer reminds us that our situation is always fluid, and we shouldn’t become too consumed by either our good fortune or bad. There is no magic crystal ball to tell us what our future holds.
When we experience hardships and accidents, we can take comfort in looking for the hidden benefits and opportunities. Granted it may not compensate for the current hurt and pain, but we’re tough and resilient. And the “good news”? Much of what we have learned about life has come from the “bad news” we have experienced.
You may have seen the lawn signs and posters around town, but I want to encourage you to show your support for the Blue Zones Project in The Dalles by attending the Community Kick-Off this Friday, January 19th at Civic Auditorium. The kick-off starts with the Wellness Fair at 5:30 pm, and then a one-hour presentation at 6:00 pm. The event will continue until 8:30 with fun, family friendly well-being booths and activities, cooking demonstrations, healthy food, local performances, giveaways, yoga, and downshifting demonstrations. Learn more and RSVP at go.bluezonesproject.com/Thedalles/kickoff.
The Center has already received several calls about the AARP Tax Aide program. The dedicated volunteers will finish their training this week, so they will be ready when the program starts February 2nd and continues through April 14thon Fridays from 2:00 – 6:00 and Saturdays from 9:00 – 1:00. During the first weeks, there is always a long line, so you need to arrive early. But they will tell you if you are too late, so you won’t be wasting your time in line.
The name of the brand of colorful low-riding tricycles which were made mostly of plastic with an oversized front wheel was Big Wheels. (I received correct answers from Kim Birge, Sandy Haechrel, Jim Ayers, and this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket, anonymous – who forgot to leave their name on the answering machine.) 
I was listening to Live Wire on OPB radio when host Luke Burbank interviewed Shawn Wen about a famous French mime who worked for the French Resistance during WW II. This mime first toured the United States in 1955 and you may remember seeing him on television performing one of his famous pantomimes – The Cage, Walking Against the Wind, or The Mask Maker. For this week’s “Remember Question”, who was the French actor and mime who performed all over the world to spread the “art of silence”? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or send it with a picture of Bip the Clown.
Well, it’s been another week, complaining about the sun in my eyes – when the sun finally shows itself.  Until we meet again, as they say in Minnesota, there is no such thing as bad weather, just different kinds of good weather.

“I’ve been absolutely terrified every moment of my life, and I’ve never let it keep me from doing a single thing that I wanted to do.” Georgia O’Keefe

Aging Well in the Gorge January 9th 2018

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With all the preconceive notions about aging and the common stereotypes about old people, one day we might hear someone singing, “Old people, what are they good for? Absolutely nothing!” But we know better. We regularly encounter older folks who demonstrate grace, humor, and kindness with tremendous spirit and grit.
Often the value of older adults is overlooked, so it was encouraging to read the December 29th, New York Times article by John Leland titled “Want to Be Happy? Think Like an Old Person”.
For three years he followed six adults, most of them in their 90’s, to try to understand the challenges and hardships adults over 85 confront financially, physically and emotionally. But not surprisingly, he learned much more.
In his interviews, he found these “old” folks resilient and realistic. They had learned to accept loss and grief; and took snubs or rejections in stride and no longer desired things they couldn’t afford. As they lived each day, they were not paralyzed by the challenges they faced.
In fact, they exhibited what gerontologists call the “paradox of old age”: as we grow older and much of our get-up-and-go has gotten-up-and-gone, instead of feeling worse and sorry for ourselves, we actually feel better – focusing on what we can still do and what we find rewarding, instead of what we can’t. As Ms. Wong told Leland, “I try not to think about bad things. It’s not good for old people to complain.”
From these six individuals in the twilight of their lives, he saw why older adults have higher levels of contentment and well-being than teenagers or young adults. And that there is much the younger generations can learn from these “over-the-hill” old folks.
If you want to read more about what John Leland learned from talking to folks 85+, his book, “Happiness Is a Choice You Make: Lessons from a Year Among the Oldest Old” will be published on Jan. 23.
If you enjoy reading and are interested in joining a book group, The Dalles – Wasco County Public Library hosts three different book groups that meet at 6:30 PM on different Thursdays.
Starting on the second Thursdays of the month, The Pride Book Club meets and is open to all adults interested in reading LGBTQA literature. The club will be discussing The Danish Girl by David Ebershoff on January 11th.
On the third Thursdays, the appropriately named Third Thursday Book Group meets. On January 18th they will be discussing the international bestseller The Readers of Broken Wheel Recommend, and in February they will be discussing The Forgetting Time by Sharon Guskin.
And on the fourth Thursdays, it’s The Mystery/Crime Book Group’s turn. On January 25th, they will be discussing American Heiress: The Wild Saga of the Kidnapping, Crimes and Trial of Patty Hearst by Jeffrey Toobin.
Anyone is welcome to join these book discussion groups. If you have any questions, contact the library at 541-296-2815.
The name of the company that manufactured the best-selling train set in the 50’s and by 1953 was the largest toy manufacturer in the world was Lionel. But I was also informed by Jim Ayers that Louis Marx and Company sold more train sets than Lionel in the late 1950’s, and he remembers having his own Marx O27 train set. (I received correct answers from Don McAllister, and this week’s winners of a quilt raffle ticket, Sam Guilip – and Jim Ayers for setting me straight.)  
And speaking of Louis Marx and Company, they introduced a toy in the 1970’s that was so successful, it was added to the National Toy Hall of Fame in 2009. For this week’s “Remember When” question, what was the name of the brand of colorful low-riding tricycles introduced by Louis Marx and Company, which were made mostly of plastic, with an oversized front wheel? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or send it with a picture of the Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, New York.
Well, it’s been another week, looking forward to the surprises of a new year. Until we meet again, don’t forget to write 2018 – and surprisingly, so far I’ve been doing pretty good.

“In spite of illness, in spite even of the archenemy sorrow, one can remain alive long past the usual date of disintegration if one is unafraid of change, insatiable in intellectual curiosity, interested in big things and happy in small ways.” Edith Wharton

Aging Well in the Gorge January 2nd 2018

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I was hoping we would be able to end 2017 without any more snow and ice, since I’m sure The Dalles met its yearly quota last January. But the snow I can deal with. It’s the ice I find deviously unsafe, especially the black ice, which I never notice until I suddenly slip and catch myself thinking, “That was close!”.
Falls are not fun. Recovering from a broken hip, dislocated shoulder or a fractured tailbone is not the way I want to spend my winter. And according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people are more likely to suffer a traumatic brain injury from falling than from any other cause.
But you can take steps to avoid falls: being mindful of what you are doing, improving your balance and strength, and annually checking your eyesight because what you don’t see, can hurt you.
But if you do fall, it is good to know how to fall to prevent the most serious injuries. And who would know how to fall better than a professional stuntwoman? In the latest AARP Magazine, stuntwoman Alexa Marcigliano, says to fall safely you need to remember to “be smooth, don’t panic, stay loose”.
More specifically, here is her four-point plan on how to fall and be able to walk away.
1. Stay bent with locked arms. Bend your elbows and have some give in your arms to soften the impact. 2. Protect your head. If you’re falling forward, be sure to turn your face to the side. When falling backward, tuck your chin to your chest so your head doesn’t hit the ground to avoid a traumatic head injury. 3. Land on the meaty parts of your body — the muscles in your back, butt, or thighs. Avoid landing on bone. 4. Keep Falling. In other words, spread the impact across a larger part of your body, so you don’t concentrate the impact on one area. The more you roll the safer you will be.
The Dalles covered in fresh snow is a remarkable sight. But before you can spread eight bags of ice melt, the snow and ice will be replaced by spring. Until then, enjoy the winter, take your time, and stay vertical. I don’t want to receive a surprise wish-you-were-here card from your seven-day winter vacation at MCMC.  
Over the past nine weeks I have briefly mentioned each of the nine lessons learned from the inhabitants of Blue Zones: places in the world where people lived the longest. Through the effort of many organizations and individuals, The Dalles was selected as a Blue Zones Project site. And to introduce the project to the whole community, there will be an official kickoff on Friday, January 19thfrom 5:30 – 8:30 at the Civic Auditorium. The kickoff includes a well-being fair starting at 5:00 and presentations starting at 6 PM. You are encouraged to bring your friends to discover how to improve your well-being while enjoying family friendly entertainment, cooking demonstrations, yoga and more.
And as a bonus you can impress everyone by knowing the Power of 9! You remember –  Move Naturally, Purpose, Downshift, 80% Rule, Plant Slant, Wine @ 5, Belong, Loved Ones First and the Right Tribe.
In the 1950’s probably every boy hoped to find under the Christmas tree an O gauge train set – the king of toys for boys. For this week’s “Remember When” question, what was the name of the company that manufactured the best-selling train set in the 50’s and by 1953 was the largest toy manufacturer in the world? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or send it with a water tower and coal elevator, often found with a train set.
The name of the television show that featured teenagers dancing to the top 40 hits and was first produced in Philadelphia was American Bandstand. (I received correct answers from Sharon Hull, Tiiu Vahtel, Dave Lutgens, Jess Birge, Bob Thouvenel, Jim and Betsy Ayers and this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket Barbara Haren.)
Well, it’s been another week, remembering, “Oh, yeah, this is why folks go south during the winter. Until we meet again, tread carefully.
“I hope that in this year to come, you make mistakes. Because if you are making mistakes, then you are making new things, trying new things, learning, living, pushing yourself, changing yourself, changing your world. You’re doing things you’ve never done before, and more importantly, you’re doing something.” Neil Gaiman

Aging Well in the Gorge December 26th 2017

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As we reflect back at the end of another year, did you ever expect to be where you are now? You started a point A, life bounced you around to point B, and then somehow you stumbled onto point C. And now many years later, here you are at point H, wondering how did that happen! Life is unpredictable and although we try to steer the ship, there always seems to be deep currents or dark storms sending us off course.
So we do our best, minding our p’s and q’s, appreciating our friends and neighbors, nurturing the best in ourselves, and still dreaming about what can be. And as we start this great adventure for another year, not knowing what we will discover, I would like to share with you one of my favorite quotes.
“A mature person is one who does not think only in absolutes, who is able to be objective even when deeply stirred emotionally, who has learned there is both good and bad in all people and in all things, who walks humbly and deals charitably with the circumstances of life, knowing that in this world no one is all-knowing and therefore all of us need both love and charity.” Eleanor Roosevelt.
As if I had this planned, I’ll end 2017 with the final lesson from the Blue Zone’s Power of 9 which is the “Right Tribe”. Blue Zone researchers found that individuals who lived the longest were either born into or created social circles that promoted healthy behaviors. This isn’t new. Remember when your parents told you to be careful who you hung out with. They knew your social networks could affect your immediate behavior. But research has also shown that your friends can have a long-term impact on well-being and can affect whether you smoke, are overweight, happy or even lonely.   
So if you want to enjoy good health and live longer, join the right tribe and surround yourself with supportive, positive individuals who push you to become a better and healthier person.
As we end this year, I want to thank everyone who has supported the Center through their donations of time or money, whether large or small. The list is too long to name every person and business, but you know who you are.
But I also want to thank everyone who has given to their communities whether as a driver for the Tygh School Center Community Bus or for The Dalles Meals-on-Wheels;
volunteering at the Warming Shelter or the SMART program; or whether you serve the community through one of the many service organizations.  
For every negative story you hear, there are many more positive uplifting tales of service that are done not for the recognition, but because someone needed to step up and do it. For all of you, take a moment and pat yourself on the back and tell yourself, “Good job”. You are the heart and backbone of your communities.
The actor/singer who sang the Christmas classic “Holly Jolly Christmas” featured in the 1964 Christmas special, Rudolph the Red-NosedReindeer was Burl Ives. (I received correct answers from Jeannie Pesicka, Don McAllister, Jerry Philips, Jess Birge, Betsy Ayers and this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket is Dave Lutgens – who, if you are an old timer, may remember him as “Shakey Dave”.)
You can’t think of New Year’s Eve without thinking of the late Dick Clark. How many times have you watched Dick Clark host the New Year’s Rockin’ Eve and the annual ball drop in Times Square? (Now with the Internet, you can watch the ball drop in Times Square live and still get to bed by 9:15 – which works for me.)
But Dick Clark’s first claim to fame was hosting a television show featuring teenagers dancing to the top 40 hits – which I remember watching to learn the latest dance moves. For this week’s “Remember When” question, what was the name of this show and for bonus points, in what east coast city was it first produced? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or send it with a 45 record of “Palisades Park” by Freddy Cannon who appeared on the show 110 times.
Well, it’s been another week, making it up as I go. Until we meet again, have a safe and Happy New Year.

“Lighten up, just enjoy life, smile more, laugh more and don’t get so worked up about things.” Kenneth Branagh

Aging Well in the Gorge December 19th

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This special time of the year brings back fond memories of young children playing around the house, excited and full of anticipation waiting for Santa’s arrival. But since my own kids have grown, left their safe harbor for grad school and careers beyond, it just isn’t the same. No longer is there time for the whole family to search for that perfect Christmas tree, judging and debating which tree would look best in the living room – and afterwards spending the evening decorating it with handmade ornaments saved from their elementary school Christmas projects.
No longer do we drive around town after the Christmas Eve service to “ohhh” and “ahhh’ at the houses illuminated with festive colors, first began when it was the only way to get the little ones to fall asleep on the “night before”. And no longer do we frantically wrap the presents after the children fell asleep, so they could magically appear under the Christmas tree – just as Santa would have left them. Now it is gift cards and frantic after Christmas shopping – looking for those bargain items too expensive or frivolous to purchase during the rest of the year.
But it is not all lost traditions. There are new ones. Flying to California (which is a nice reprieve from the cold weather) to visit our son and daughter. And Skyping with my sister and brother back east – while still learning the social protocols of visiting long distance in this modern way.
Then one day – maybe, just maybe – Christmas past will return with the sound of little feet once again running around the house as the grandkids come to visit their grandpa and grandma during this special time of the year. You can always hope.
The 8th lesson in the Blue Zones Power of 9, “Loved Ones First”, is appropriate for this week when families gather for Christmas. Successful centenarians in the Blue Zones put their families first. They keep their aging parents and grandparents nearby or in their home (which is certainly not the American norm any more); they commit to a lifelong partner; and devote their time and love to their children.
During this Christmas season, I hope you have the opportunity to spend time with your loved ones – young and old. And to appreciate how important and comforting loved ones and family are, even with all their flaws – and all of ours.
During this holiday period, the Center and Meals-on-Wheels will be closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. In addition, Meals-on-Wheels will be closed on the day after Christmas. Also, several of the Center’s activities will be taking time off. During the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day, Chair Yoga, Strength Yoga, and Zumba Gold will not meet. Tai Chi and Line Dancing/Clogging will be taking a break until February. But if after all the Christmas cookies, you feel you need some exercise, Strong Women will still be meeting on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2:00 – 3:00. If you have any questions about the classes and activities, call the Center at 541-296-4788.
The actor who portrayed Ted Hanover, Jim Hardy’s (Bing Crosby) musical partner in the 1942 film Holiday Inn, was Fred Astaire. (I received correct answers from Jerry Philips, Diana Weston and this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket Betsy Ayers. But we will all have to wait until the Cherry Festival breakfast for the next quilt raffle drawing – which like Christmas, will be here sooner than we think.)    
It’s the week before Christmas, and it wouldn’t be right not to have another Christmas related question – but this time it’s music. There are many popular Christmas recordings from the all-time favorite “White Christmas” to “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus” by Jimmy Boyd. For this week’s “Remember When” question, what actor/singer sang the Christmas classic “Holly Jolly Christmas” featured in the 1964 Christmas special, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or send it with a cat from a hot tin roof.

“Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas.” Calvin Coolidge

Living Well in the Gorge December 12th 2017

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Have you ever felt lonely wishing you had more friends or family to share stories, reminisce about the good old days, and to complain how the world is going to hell in a hand basket?
If we are lucky, we may live a long life, which often means we become one of the last ones standing, outliving most of our friends. (I believe it was George Burns who said one advantage of living to 100 is you don’t have to worry about peer pressure.)
But there is a difference between being lonely and being alone. Loneliness is the subjective feeling of isolation, not belonging, or lacking companionship, different from more observable indicators such as living alone or the number of relationships. In other words, loneliness is more the difference between one’s desired relationships and one’s actual relationships. And it is now seen as a predictor of functional decline and death and a more important determent of health than just social isolation.
But it is tough to develop new relationships, new friends who enjoy the same things and have similar experiences to share. (Why can’t anything be easy!) You may be an introvert. Or your loneliness has morphed into depression and you just don’t have the energy. Or you’re just out of practice.
To deal with the feeling of loneliness, seek places where you can connect with others. On the Internet you can reconnect with family and friends through social media such as Facebook. (But be careful of the con artists who aren’t who they say they are.) You can take classes at the Center, enjoy a healthy Meals-on-Wheels dinner at noon, or attend a place of worship. Which brings us to the seventh lesson from the Blue Zone’s Power of 9 – “Belong”.
The inhabitants of the Blue Zones belong to a faith based community – and it doesn’t matter what faith, Christian, Buddhist or Muslim. It was found that being connected to a faith community and attending services four times per month could add 4-14 years of life expectancy.
Stay connected – including the supportive environment of a faith community that speaks to you. It may not be easy, but it will be worth it.
Thanks to the over 100 folks who attended the Center’s Holiday Breakfast. It was a tremendous success due to all the volunteers who made it happen: the kitchen and set up crews, the quilters who made the quilt that was raffled, and Boy Scout Troop #395 who washed dishes, bussed tables, and poured coffee. Thanks to everyone for a fantastic holiday breakfast.
Since Christmas is on a Monday, creating another three-day weekend/holiday, imagine yourself during those dark frosty evenings sitting in your overstuffed chair in front of the crackling fire place, watching on your big screen TV, Hollywood Christmas classics from the good-old-days. You probably have your favorites – my family’s Christmas eve tradition was watching The Muppet’s Christmas Carol. Here are five more films to add to your Christmas viewing, recommended by “Rotten Tomatoes” a popular movie review website: It’s a Wonderful Life, which is on everyone’s list; March of the Wooden Soldiers (Babes in Toyland) starring Laurel and Hardy; Christmas in Connecticut, which I am planning to watch for the first time; Miracle on 34th Street, which won three Oscars, and my current favorite, Holiday Inn.
Which brings me to this week’s “Remember When” question. In the 1942 film Holiday Inn, which introduced Irving Berlin’s Academy Award winning, “White Christmas”, who was the actor that portrayed Ted Hanover, Jim Hardy’s (Bing Crosby) musical partner? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or send it with a clip of the fireworks popping Independence Day dance scene from the movie.
And before I forget, the general anesthesia with the unforgettable odor most of us experienced back in the not-so-good-old-days was ether.  (I received correct answers from Bernie Sleep, Don McAllister, Ed Anghilante, Jerry Philips and this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket, Louise Wooderson. Louise shared the incredible story of when she was in second grade holding her breath when the ether was administered and waking up in the middle of the operation on her broken arm! Ouch!!)

“Laugh and the world laughs with you, snore and you sleep alone.” Anthony Burgess

Aging Well in the Gorge December 5th 2017

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How did December arrive so soon? And as quick as you can forget the name of a person you just met, 2018 will be here and we will be toasting in the new year with a glass of red wine – which is my segue to the sixth of the “Power of Nine” lessons from the Blue Zones. (But before we go any further, do you remember the first five?)
The sixth lesson is “Wine at 5”. People in the Blue Zones, except for the Seventh Day Adventists, drink alcohol moderately and regularly – generally one or two glasses a day with friends and/or with dinner. One of red wine’s possible benefits is that it has been found to help absorb plant-based antioxidants which may help protect your cells from damage.  (What about grape juice for non-drinkers? Some research studies suggest that red and purple grape juices may provide some of the same heart benefits of red wine.)
But there are always risks. According to the University of Rochester Medical Center, after age 65, your lean body mass and water content decreases and your metabolism slows down. Translated that means alcohol stays in your system longer, so the amount of alcohol in your blood is higher than it would have been when you were younger. Consequently, at our age it is particularly important to be prudent and drink in moderation.
Also, if you are like me, you take more medications than when you were younger. The trouble is alcohol can interact with hundreds of prescription medications causing complications: nausea, fainting and headaches; and can interfere making the medications less effective or useless; or even harmful or toxic to your body.
As you enjoy your glass of red wine at 5:00 with friends or during dinner, drink moderately and read the drug labels to avoid harmful interactions – so you can live a longer, healthier, and happier life.
(The first five Blue Zone lessons are “Move Naturally”, have a “Purpose”, “Downshift”, “80% Rule” and “Plant Slant”.)
On two occasions this month, there will be special Christmas music before the Meals-on-Wheels noon dinner at the Center. Students from Colonel Wright will be singing on December 7th at 11:45 and on December 22nd, Bruce and Sher Schwartz will be playing special holiday music starting at 11:30. Besides the special music this month, Bruce and Sher will also be playing before lunch on the 8th; Andre and K.C. on the second and fourth Tuesdays, and Tom Graff on most Thursdays.
This sounds like fun and for a good cause. The Springs at Mill Creek is having their annual Gingerbread Open House on Thursday, December 7th from 5:30 – 7:30 PM and you are invited. Enjoy Gingerbread House creations, wonderful desserts, eggnog, cookie decorating and of course Santa. There is no charge, but each of the Gingerbread Houses will be available for the Silent Auction to benefit the Alzheimer’s Association.
I know some of you have to be reminded more than once, so why don’t you do yourself a favor and stick on the door a note that says “Holiday Breakfast, Center, this Saturday, 8 – 9:30. $6. Yummy! Bring extra money for raffle tickets.”
The name of the song, an innovative combination of gospel and psychedelic rock sounds, sung by Norman Greenbaum was “Spirit in the Sky”. (I received correct answers from Deloris Schrader and Sonja Petersen-Talatzko who both win a free raffle ticket for Saturday’s quilt raffle drawing.)
This week let’s move from pop music to something less entertaining. I remember in the 1950’s having to have my tonsils removed. Before I could get to the promised milk shakes, I had to survive the surgery and I can still remember lying down and the nurse putting a mask with a terrible smell over my face and asking me to count to ten. For this week’s “Remember When” question, what was the type of general anesthesia that was used? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or send it with any memories you may have had of this general anesthesia used during surgery.
Well, it’s been another week, trying to talk and chew (or do anything) at the same time.  Until we meet again, a bad memory isn’t all bad, because some have said it is the key to happiness.  

“I cook with wine, sometimes I even add it to the food.” W. C. Fields