Aging Well in the Gorge October 11th 2016

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In a few days Medicare Open Enrollment starts. And in preparation you should have received your “Annual Notice of Changes” which describes any changes in your current Medicare plan for 2017 such as cost, coverage, and what providers and pharmacies are in their networks. It is strongly recommended that you review those changes to make sure your plan will still meet your needs in 2017.
If your current plan won’t, then during Medicare Open Enrollment from October 15 to December 7, you can change your Medicare plans. But as many of you know, it’s not always easy to navigate through all the choices. If you have questions, which most folks do, you can call the Center to make an appointment with a trained SHIBA (Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance) volunteer; or visit the website www.Medicare.gov.
One significant change for 2017 is Regence will no longer offer a Medicare Advantage Plan in Wasco County forcing over four hundred Regence Medicare Advantage plan recipients to search for another plan. If you are one of the four hundred, don’t panic. There will be a meeting at the Center at 1:00 on October 25th presented by local SHIBA volunteers to describe your options; and if you need further assistance, to schedule an appointment with a SHIBA volunteer.
Last week when I looked out my office window I was reminded that the speed limit in a school zone between 7:00 and 5:00 pm is 20 mph. What was the reminder? A city policeman parked at the corner of 10thand Cherry Heights for two days, with his radar gun, ticketing drivers for speeding in a school zone. Now, there is good reason for the 20 mph limit. Research shows pedestrians have a 90 percent chance of surviving car crashes at 18 mph or below, but less than 50 percent at 28 mph or above. So for the sake of our children – and your pocketbook, remember to slow down to 20 mph in the school zones.
A growing percentage of older adults own smartphones – which you can use to check Facebook, send and receive texts, and even tract your medications. It also is a pretty decent digital camera – right there in your pocket for those unexpected special moments. But what do you need to know to take great pictures? Framing? Lighting? And what do those terms even mean?
The Center is looking for a volunteer knowledgeable about photography and can answer those questions to facilitate a Smartphone Photography class. If you are interested, give me a call at 541-296-4788.
I don’t want you to wake up Saturday morning and realized you missed an opportunity to hear vocalist Nehemiah Brown sing the standards from the 50’s and 60’s. So here is your last reminder that Nehemiah will be performing at the Center on Friday, October 14th, from 7:00 – 9:00 PM sponsored by The Dalles Health and Rehabilitation Center. You can purchase $3.00 tickets at the door.
Last week I started a new feature: “40 Great Things about Growing Older”: Here is #2. “The longer you live, the smarter you get.” Of course that’s assuming I can remember what I learned last week! (Anyone remember from grade school who was the first to sail around the world? It isn’t who you think.)
The name of the show that aired from 1950–1956 and starred the title character and his sidekick Pancho was the Cisco Kid. (This week’s winners of a quilt raffle ticket each are Ed Anghilante, Jim Ayres, Alice Mattox and Virginia McClain.)
Even though this political spoof of President Kennedy was good natured and pales in comparison to the nasty political satire these days, it was still rejected by most music recording executives because it would be “degrading of the Presidency”. But it was released in November, 1962 by Cadence Records and was one of the fastest selling records in history. For this week’s “Remember When” question, who was the comedian that impersonated John F. Kennedy on the 1963 Grammy “Album of the Year”, The First Family? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or deliver it “with great vigah” to the Center.
Well, it’s been another week, enjoying my favorite season of the year. Until we meet again, remember there are only twenty-seven more days.
“I’m not taking any chances and leaving it ‘till the election. When you are 103, you make every minute count.” Ruline Steininger, 103 years old, who voted early in Iowa as reported by CNN.

Aging Well in the Gorge October 4th 2016

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According to LongTermCare.gov, 70% of people turning age 65 can expect to use some form of long-term care during their lives. Often that care is provided by paid in-home care professionals. To find an in-home caregiver, you can contact one of the home care businesses in the Gorge. Or you can hire your own caregiver which can be a complex and time consuming process.

But now there is Homecare Choice – a new in-home services program offered by the Oregon Home Care Commission for people using their own funds to pay for help at home. If you are enrolled in the program, you have a choice of who you would like to interview and hire as a caregiver (using the Oregon Home Care Commission’s Registry); when and how those services are provided; and the services you would like to purchase such as assistance with personal care, household tasks, companionship, transportation, medication reminding, running errands, and pet care.

Often forgotten or ignored is that if you hire someone, for as little as four hours a week, you could qualify as an employer with all the associated responsibilities. But the Homecare Choice program can help by paying the caregiver on your behalf, paying the withholding and reporting payroll taxes.

I will explain more about the Homecare Choice Program and how to enroll at the next 11:00 Tuesday Lecture on October 11th. If you think you might ever need a paid caregiver, you will find this presentation helpful.

My apologies for this late announcement about the Oregon Alzheimer’s Association’s Living with Alzheimer’s Late Stage class that will take place tomorrow (Wednesday) from 10:00 – 12:30 at the Center. This class is for caregiver’s who are caring for someone in the late stage of Alzheimer’s disease, when caregiving typically involves new ways of connecting and interacting with the person with the disease.

For each of the last three years, over 300 folks have enjoyed a delicious finger-licking Baby Back Rib dinner. Now you have a chance to join the fun this Friday, October 7th from 4:30 till 7:00. Because of the generous sponsorship by The Springs at Mill Creek, every penny of your $15 ticket will go to providing healthy nutritious meals and classes and other activities that support older adults. You can purchase tickets at the Center, Klindt’s Booksellers or at the door.

The Center quilters meet every Monday from 10:00 – 3:00 downstairs at the Center where they stitch and sew the large beautiful quilts hanging in the Center’s lobby. But did you know they also make unique smaller quilts that are ideal as gifts? At the Center, you can purchase a small quilt as well as raffle tickets for one of the larger quilts. And if $200 worth of raffle tickets are sold by the end of the Baby Back Rib Dinner, we will draw the winning ticket and someone will be going home draped in a beautiful quilt.

Martin and Friends will be playing at the Center on Tuesday, October 11th. Doors open at 6:00, music starts at 7:00, and donations are appreciated. Last spring while attending the annual Gerontology conference at OSU, I picked up a bookmark that identified “40 Great Things about Growing Older”. Email me one of the great things you think makes growing older great, and each week I will mention one. The first one on the list of 40 is “Senior discounts are great” – which includes my favorite, the “young man” (a euphemism for “this old guy”) discount at Subway.

Am I the only one who remembers Donovan, the 60’s British singer and songwriter who was often described as a Bob Dylan clone? Oh, well.

But for this week’s “Remember When” question, I’ll try something a little more familiar – an American Western television series. What was the name of the TV show that aired from 1950–1956; starred the title character and his English mangling sidekick Pancho who traveled the west fighting injustice; and by 1955 was the most popular non-animated television series among American children? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or drop your answer off at the Center with a copy of the O. Henry’s short story “The Caballero’s Way”.

Well, it’s been another week, keeping a hand on the banister. Until we meet again, don’t let the perfect get in the way of the good.

“When you come to a fork in the road, take it.” Yogi Berra

Aging Well in the Gorge September 27th 2016

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Most of us want to stay in our own homes as we age, but we also want to stay safe. And staying safe includes making sure your smoke detectors are installed and working.
I was reminded of the importance of smoke detectors several weeks ago when my wife and daughter drove by the house fire on Fourth Street. When they stopped, they saw flames shooting out the side of the house; could hear someone inside tapping on one of the upstairs windows; and saw several Johnnies-on-the-spot scrambling to get the person out. It was a truly frightening experience knowing it was real – and not a movie.
Now you can guess what I did the next day. I checked all the smoke detectors in my house: replacing the ones older than ten years, which were most of them; and making sure the others were working.
But I found that I am not the young whipper-snapper I once was – or even as strong as I was just ten years ago. And although I was able to get all the smoke detectors installed, it wasn’t easy. I imagined what it would be like if I wasn’t able to climb a ladder or didn’t have the strength to use a screwdriver.  
That is where the Mid-Columbia Fire and Rescue (MCFR) can help out. If you are unable to install your smoke detectors and do not have a friend who can help, you can call MCFR and make an appointment for someone to come and install them for you.
MCFR wants to save and protect lives. They have been trained to respond to emergencies, but their worst nightmare is retrieving a lifeless body from a structure fire. They know smoke detectors can save lives – but only if they are installed and working.
You can learn more about fire prevention, how to escape a fire and other MCFR services such as FireMed memberships at the Center’s Tuesday Lecture on October 4that 11:00 when a representative from the Mid-Columbia Fire and Rescue will be the speaker. Come and learn how to be prepared, so you can avoid the worse.
Tickets are on sale for the Baby Back Rib Dinner on October 7th. You can purchase them at the Center, at Klindt’s Booksellers or this Saturday they’ll be selling tickets at the Farmers’ Market from 9:00 – 1:00. The cost is still only $15. And thanks to the dinner’s sponsor, The Springs at Mill Creek, every dollar raised will go to support The Dalles Meals-on-Wheels and the Center.  
Andre, KC and Joe will be playing at the Center on Tuesday, October 4th. Doors open at 6:00, music starts at 7:00, and donations are appreciated.
And there’s more music. The popular northwest vocalist Nehemiah Brown is returning to the Center on Friday, October 14th. With his silky smooth voice, he will sing standards from the 50’s and 60’s including pop, country and some gospel tossed in. Thanks to The Dalles Health and Rehabilitation Center, the ticket prices are only $3.00 per person which you can purchase at the door. Doors open at 6:00, and the music starts at 7:00  
The name of the roller skating rink on the west side of town was the By Golly. (This week’s winners of a quilt raffle ticket each are Donna Smith and Zelta Wasson.)
It has been a while since I’ve asked a question about pop music during the “peace and love” 1960’s. So for this week’s “Remember When” question, who was the British singer, songwriter and guitarist who emerged from the British folk scene during the 60’s; was often described as a British Dylan clone and had several top ten hits in the US? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or drop your answer off at the Center with a drawing of a mellow yellow sunshine superman.   
Well, it’s been another week, where if it is out of sight, it is out of mind – which is the reason for all the sticky notes around my house. Until we meet again, an ounce of prevention is worth as much as a good insurance policy.
“We want autonomy for ourselves and safety for those we love. That remains the main problem and paradox for the frail. Many of the things that we want for those we care about are things that we would adamantly oppose for ourselves because they would infringe upon our sense of self.”  Atul Gawande

Aging Well in the Gorge September 20th 2016

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While laying back in the dentist chair as I’m getting my teeth cleaned, I couldn’t help but notice the poster taped to the ceiling (inventive way to take advantage of a captive audience!) for the ”I AM…” photo shoot.
“I AM…” sponsored by Keilman Dental Clinic, offers students, teachers and community members a unique opportunity of being professionally photographed posing with a word or two printed in black on their hands or arms that express who they are. Think of a photo of a young women holding a globe with “adventurous” written on her arms. (For more examples go to the web site, www.keilmandental.com/community/iam/.)
But if you were going to join the community photo shoot, what would you want written on your hands or arms? No, really. Think about it. How would you describe yourself? I am – what? Fearless? Mysterious? Determined? Good Neighbor? Or how about “Wild and Crazy”?
One intent of the “I AM…” photo shoot is to create conversations around what diversity means, who defines it, and what we can do to broaden the acceptance of the varieties of diversity within the Dalles community. Unfortunately, in these conversations we older adults often exclude ourselves. But it wouldn’t be a true conversation about diversity without the presence of grandpas and grandmas, the retirees who volunteer and all the older adults who are a vital part of The Dalles. 
So think about joining the fun. It is free and open to everyone and takes place at the Riverenza from 2:00 – 6:00 PM on Thursday, September 22nd. Maybe I’ll see you there – if someone can just tell me who I am.
If we had a choice, most of us would rather talk about politics and religion at a family reunion than ever talk about death and dying – as if talking about dying will kill you.
It won’t. And on Tuesday, September 27th the monthly conversations about the end of life continues at The Dalles/Wasco County Library at 6:30 PM facilitated by Julie Reynolds and Colleen Ballinger. This month they will show the PBS documentary, Seven Songs for a Long Life, which tells the story of Strathcarron, a remarkable Scottish hospice center, where “patients face pain, uncertainty and the possibility of life’s end with song and humor”.
Now that summer is over, and everyone is back home again, the Center’s Tuesday Lectures are returning for their eighth year on September 27th from 11:00 – 12:00. For the first lecture I will be providing an update on the UpLifting Elevator project, and give you a chance to review and ask questions about the latest floor plans for the addition. The Center still needs to raise another $25,000 to $35,000 depending on the unexpected twists and turns, but there is no turning back now. It’s going to happen.
Several quick reminders: The Center is hosting a Flu Shot Clinic in cooperation with Rite Aid on Wednesday (21st) from 10:00 – 1:30; there are still a few seats left for the $55 Mt. Hood Railroad Trip to enjoy the fall colors up the Hood River Valley to Odell (29th); and tickets are on sale at the Center for the Baby Back Rib Dinner on October 7th.
Country Road will be playing at the Center on Tuesday, September 20th. Doors open at 6:00, music starts at 7:00, and donations are appreciated.
The name of the popular roller skating rink out by Big Jim’s was the Old Mill Skating Rink. (This week’s winners of a quilt raffle ticket each are Maxine Parker and Zelta Wasson – who spent hours and hours there.)
But that really wasn’t the answer I was looking for, because I didn’t ask the right question. I was on the wrong side of town. So for this week’s “Remember When” question, what was the name of the roller skating rink on the WEST side of town where I am told it was located on the corner where Casa El Mirador is now? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or once again put on your old pair of roller skates and drop your answer off at the Center – although I didn’t see anyone skate by last week. 
Well, it’s been another week, trying to keep the giddy-up in my get-up-and-go. Until we meet again, as George Burns once said, “Be quick to learn and wise to know”.

“It’s all right letting yourself go, as long as you can get yourself back.”  Mick Jagger

Aging Well in the Gorge September 13th 2016

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It’s that time of the year. I’m not talking about the weekend football games or the disappearing daylight, but flu season. Seasonal flu outbreaks can start as early as October, and most often peaks between December and February.  
Flu is a particular concern for older adults, because while the flu was once a nasty inconvenience, now that we are older, it can have serious health implications. It is estimated that between 71 percent and 85 percent of seasonal flu-related deaths and 54 percent and 70 percent of seasonal flu-related hospitalizations have occurred in people 65 years and older.
To protect yourself, the first step is your annual flu shot. Once again, the Center will be offering flu shots in cooperation with Rite-Aid on Wednesday, September 21st from 10:00 until 1:30. Call the Center to sign up.
But since the CDC announced this year’s flu vaccine only covers 50 percent of the strains floating around, you can’t rely only on the flu vaccine, and should take the following additional steps.  
1. Practice good hygiene: wash your hands often and thoroughly with soap and water; and if soap and water aren’t available use an alcohol-based sanitizer on your hands. 
2. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth whenever possible. 
3. Avoid crowds when the flu is most prevalent in your area. 
4. Practice good health habits: get plenty of sleep, exercise regularly, drink plenty of fluids, eat a nutritious diet, and manage your stress. 
(And don’t forget to stay up to date with your pneumococcal vaccination to protect against pneumococcal pneumonia disease – one of the flu-related complications that can cause death.)
And no, you cannot get the flu from a flu shot – I promise! (Although even with a flu shot, some folks still get the flu from one of the influenza viruses not protected by the vaccine or they caught the flu during the two weeks before the vaccine took effect.)
If you want to increase your chances of avoiding the flu – and its complications, be health wise and get your flu vaccine now, before the flu viruses show their runny noses in the Gorge.
In 1965 Congress passed the Older Americans Act (OAA), creating programs & services for adults aged 60+.  As a recipient of OAA federal funds, the Mid-Columbia Council of Governments’ Area Agency on Aging (AAA), is required to update their Area Plan every 5 years to address needs of seniors. Your input is vital to the development of the Area Plan to help review, assess, redesign and develop programs to meet the needs of our growing elder population. The Area Agency on Aging is asking for citizens 55 and older to participate in a community forum on September 16th from 9:30-11:30 am at the Center to review the services offered to the community and to identify unmet needs. For any questions contact the AAA at 541-298-4101.
On Thursday, September 29th the Center has scheduled a two hour ride on the Mt. Hood Railroad to enjoy the fall colors up the Hood River Valley to Odell. The cost is $55 which includes a lunch and transportation to Hood River. Call the Center to sign up.
The Simcoe Boys will be playing at the Center on Tuesday, September 20th. Doors open at 6:00, music starts at 7:00, and donations are appreciated.
The Checkers Speech heard by 60 million Americans and led to an outpouring of public support was made by the 1952 Republican vice-presidential candidate Richard Nixon. (This week’s winners of a quilt raffle ticket each are Virginia McClain, Maxine Parker, Jerry Taylor and Sue Ortega.)
Two folks who often frequented the Center passed away over the Labor Day weekend: Juanita Ignowski and Bill Van Nice. They were a wealth of local history and the source of my “Remember When” questions about The Dalles. In conversations, they had mentioned this popular roller skating rink on the east side of town out by Big Jim’s. For this week’s “Remember When” question, and in memory of both Juanita and Bill, what was the name of this roller rink from way back when? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or put on your old pair of roller skates and drop your answer off at the Center.  
Well, it’s been another week, cheering for the home team. Until we meet again, our greatest critics are often ourselves.

“Acting is all about honesty. If you can fake that, you’ve got it made.” George Burns

Aging Well in the Gorge September 6th 2016

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As we grow older, there are significant challenges: illicit drugs, unprotected sex – oops, wrong age group! Let’s start again.
As we grow older, there are significant challenges: the cost of health care – even with Medicare coverage; transportation – particularly if you no longer drive; affordable housing – that is clean and accessible; and finding skilled and trusted caregivers. But do you agree? Or are there other challenges you feel haven’t been adequately addressed? And which ones do you feel are the most critical?
The local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) would like to hear your thoughts and insights about what our communities need to support older adults, at a community meeting at the Center on Friday, September 16th from 10:00 – 11:30. The results from the meeting will help shape the services and supports the AAA provides for older adults in the region.
But it will take more than government programs such as the AAA to support and improve the lives of older adults. I will take non-profits, businesses, families, and the health care community, all working together to address the issues facing older adults now and in the future.
One grass roots effort that is working to create a community that promotes and fosters the well-being of elders through education and advocacy is the Aging in the Gorge Alliance (AGA). They have several functioning work groups including Housing and Transportation, Caregiving, Multigenerational activities and Age of Dignity Reading Project.
(You will be hearing more about Age of Dignity Reading Project in the next several weeks. But briefly, the AGA will be distributing for free four hundred copies of the book Age of Dignity – Preparing for the Elder Boom in a Changing America to local libraries and small discussions group in the Gorge (including the Center) with a large community forum to be held on Saturday, October 22nd, in Hood River.)
The AGA is looking for more folks from The Dalles area. If you want to get involved, the next general AGA meeting is on Tuesday, October 11th from 6:30 – 8:45 at Down Manor in Hood River. Give me a call if you would like a ride. And if you want to receive their emails, contact Tina Castanares at tdcastanares@gmail.com or 541-354-1666.
You may have recently decided to stick your toe in the waters of the digital age with a new smartphone or tablet. Or maybe you bought a new computer with Windows 10 and the last operating system you used was Windows XP. Where can you get help? Before you spend money on professional services, you can stop by the Center any Wednesday at 9:00 for help. Or you can stop by the “Bring Your Own Device Lab” at The Dalles/Wasco County Library on every third Wednesday from 1pm – 2pm and every third Saturday from 10am – 11am. Six slots are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
To celebrate the importance and joy of being a grandparent, the Center is hosting a Grandparents’ Breakfast this Saturday, September 10th from 8:00 – 9:30. The menu consists of pancakes, scrambled eggs, bacon, fruit and juice. The cost is $5.00 for one adult, $3.00 for children twelve and under. And there’s a special rate for a grandparent and one grandchild, or great grandchild, or great-great grandchild for $6.00.
Martin and Friends will be playing at the Center on Tuesday, September 13th. Doors open at 6:00, music starts at 7:00, and donations are appreciated.
“What’s My Line?” was one of network television’s longest running and most beloved prime time game shows; and where the question “Is it bigger than a bread box?” was first used by Steve Allen. (This week’s winners of a quilt raffle ticket each are Patsy Warner and Nadine McCracken.)
Controversy has always been a part of America’s political landscape ever since Burr shot Hamilton. So for this week’s “Remember When” question who said during the 1952 presidential campaign, “And our little girl—Tricia, the 6-year-old—named it Checkers. And you know, the kids, like all kids, love the dog and I just want to say this right now that regardless of what they say about it, we’re gonna keep it.” Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or mail it with the names of the members of the 1948 House Committee on Un-American Activities.
Well, it’s been another week, wondering, “Where did the time go?” Until we meet again, sometimes stubbornness is just another name for being determined – and sometimes it’s not.

“Never have children, only grandchildren.” Gore Vidal

Aging Well in the Gorge August 30th 2016

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After last week’s column, I received a phone message from a friend I’ve known for a long time (I could say an old friend, but these days I try to avoid to avoid using the word old) reminding me of the risks associated with taking statins.

It was a good point. Statins, as is the case with most every prescription drug, do have side effects that every person who uses them should know. But it is always important is to weigh the benefits against the risks for any drug.

We all know that too much cholesterol in your blood increases your risk of heart attacks and strokes. And research shows that statins block a substance that your liver needs to make cholesterol which causes your liver to remove cholesterol from your blood – which is a good thing. But there are side effects.

According to the Mayo Clinic, one of the most common complaints of taking statins is muscle pain causing mild discomfort, but it could be severe enough to interfere with your daily activities. Statins can also cause mild to severe liver damage; increased blood sugar levels which may lead to developing type 2 diabetes; and some people have developed memory loss or confusion. If you think you’re experiencing any side effects from taking one of the different types of statins, it is important you talk to your doctor. Your doctor may be able to come up with an alternative treatment plan.

We all react to drugs differently, so know the possible side effects and always consider both the benefits and the risks. And in the case of statins, they can reduce your risk of a heart attack or stroke, and even though the risk of life-threatening side effects is very low – they do exist. It’s your choice.

You may have noticed, it’s back to school time – a time for drivers to keep an eye out for youngsters walking to school. And doesn’t it also bring back memories of walking to school in your new clothes, with your used books, notepads, Scheaffer pens and no. 2 pencils; and sitting at your wooden desk with that round ink well in the corner. They were simpler days. 

If you want to get in the back-to-school spirit and learn something new, here are three going-ons you might want to check out. Columbia Gorge Genealogical Society’s presents “Non-Population Census Records” on Saturday, September 10, 2016 (https://cggsblog.blogspot.com/); ODOT historian, Robert Hadlow presents “Remember, Restore, Reconnect: The Historic Columbia River Highway,” Friday, September 9, at Columbia Gorge Discovery Center (www.gorgediscovery.org); and a 2-Day Beginner Pastel Painting Workshop with Karen Watson on September 10th and 11th at The Dalles Art Center (http://www.thedallesartcenter.org/).

This is the last week I’m going to pester you to send in your favorite grandchild experience, because the entries have to be submitted by Saturday, September 3rd. Mail them to the Mid-Columbia Senior Center at 1112 W 9th Street, The Dalles, 97058 or email them to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com.

Even though Grandparents Day is on Sunday, September 11th, the Center is celebrating the importance and joy of being a grandparent at the Grandparent Pancake Breakfast sponsored by Flagstone Senior Living on Saturday September 10:00. This is the Center’s first year of what is hoped to be an annual tradition – and I already have some ideas for next year.

There is music every Tuesday at the Center and on September 6th, Andre, KC and Tom will be playing for your listening and dancing enjoyment. Doors open at 6:00, music starts at 7:00 and ends when there’s no one left on the dance floor. Everyone is welcome and donations are always appreciated.

The movie that starred Charlton Heston; and was the highest-grossing film of 1959 and winner of a record eleven Academy Awards was Ben-Hur. (This week’s winners of a quilt raffle ticket are Sandy Goforth and Ed Anghilante.)

This week’s “Remember When” questions is about one of network television’s longest running and most beloved prime time game shows which broadcast from 1950 – 1967. What was the name of this game show that consisted of the four panelists trying to guess the occupation of a guest contestant? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or mail it in an object “bigger than a breadbox”.

Well, it’s been another week, laughing at my own mistakes before anyone else can. Until we meet again, remember no one ever died of laughter.

“Grandmas are moms with lots of frosting.” Author Unknown

Aging Well in the Gorge August 23rd 2016

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John C. Maxwell, an American author and speaker, talks about two kinds of pride: “Good pride” representing our dignity and self-respect; and “bad pride” – the deadly sin of superiority composed of conceit and arrogance. As we age, sometimes we let that “bad” pride” get in the way when making decisions about our own well-being.
This may sound silly, but for example, I was proud I took only one prescribed medication. I felt special particularly when nurses were always surprised to learn I took so few for a “man of my age”. 
That was until my annual physical when I was told that according to the latest recommendations, I should be taking a statin to help reduce my cholesterol. I balked. That would mean two prescriptions. And I wouldn’t be so special!
So I went to a higher authority – my cardiologist. He explained that by taking a statin, it would increase my chances of living another twenty years. Okay, so I could be proud and take only one prescription OR I could have a better chance of living another twenty years. And since I need to work twenty more years to pay off my parent loans for my children’s college education, I decided to swallow (no pun intended) my pride and take the statin.
We would all like to feel and act as we did fifty years ago (without repeating the stupid things!). But let’s face it. It ain’t gonna happen. Instead we need to be smart and accept what “is” – and adapt the “is” to what we want it to be. And not let pride get in the way of making good choices – whether deciding to use a walker, or telling someone you were wrong or taking a recommended medication.
It’s early but save the date, October 7th, for the annual Baby Back Rib dinner. The dinner is again sponsored by the good folks at The Springs at Mill Creek, so all the proceeds from the dinner will support Meals-on-Wheels and the Center. The cost is still only $15 – and it includes music performed by the fabulous bluegrass band Hardshell Harmony, who you may have heard at the County Fair’s Senior Picnic.  
And speaking of the Senior Picnic, it was good to see The Dalles Mayor Steve Lawrence; Wasco County Commissioners Steve Kramer and Rod Runyon; and Wasco County Clerk, Lisa Gambee, dishing out all the fried chicken and fixins. (There were others but apparently my memory’s capacity is only four names). Thanks to Flagstone, the Area Agency on Aging and Canyon Rim Manor for sponsoring this county fair tradition.
At the Center’s Saturday Night Bingo on the 27th, there is a real good chance someone will blackout in 58 numbers on the last game and drive home with an extra $1000. Games start at 6:00 and the minimum buy-in is $10. All ages are welcome.
I know there are more great stories out there about your special grandchild experiences. Entries have to be less than 300 words – we have one entry of only 40 words, and you can even write you story on the back of a napkin. We don’t care. Prizes include a Grand prize of a $300 certificate to any Shilo Inn. You have until September 3rd. So get a pen and napkin and start writing.
The Center’s usual fifth Tuesday band couldn’t make it, but we were able to rope in the Shades of Country to perform on Tuesday August 30th. Doors open at 6:00, music starts at 7:00, and donations are appreciated.
The television broadcaster and entertainer who hosted his own Talent Scouts television show was the “Old Redhead” Arthur Godfrey. (This week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket is Harold Stephens.)
Back in Indianapolis, I remember watching this epic movie with my parents at one of those big motion picture palaces built in the 20’s and 30’s. For this week’s “Remember When” question, what was the name of the movie that starred Charlton Heston; and was the highest-grossing film of 1959 and winner of a record eleven Academy Awards? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or drive it to the Center in a late model chariot.
Well, it’s been another week, looking for shade on a sunny afternoon. Until we meet again, don’t let the “some things” that could happen, keep you from enjoying the “good things”.  

“I don’t intentionally spoil my grandkids. It’s just that correcting them often takes more energy than I have left.” Gene Perret

Aging Well in the Gorge August 16th 2016

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Since 1966, Medicare has been critical to the health and wellbeing of older adults. But it will be facing significant challenges and the fall elections could have a significant impact on the future of Medicare and your healthcare coverage.
What are some of the challenges?
1. Healthcare spending is nearly five times higher for those aged 85+ than the national average. (Why I probably have seen a doctor more over the last four years than I had during my first forty years.) 2. A growing aging population with the Baby Boomers starting to turn sixty-five. 3. The number of people who pay into Medicare are fewer. (In 2000, there were 5.2 reported workers for every retiree, but by 2030 it is expected there will be only 3 workers for each retired individual.) 4. While Medicare already consumes 15% of the federal budget, many experts believe that today’s benefit levels and quality of service cannot be sustained without more revenue.
So what might you want to know from the candidates? To get you thinking, national senior advocate Carol Marak suggests the following questions that address many of the issues facing Medicare.
What are your proposed policies and strategies to keep Medicare financially secure for generations to come? Do you support limiting Medicare benefits only to those with low incomes? What role would you like to see private health plans play in Medicare? How would you improve the Medicare drug benefit? Do you support federal or state government’s involvement with drug prices negotiations? Do you think greater coverage for preventive care would drive health care costs down?
These are important times. Whoever we elect to Congress and the White House will have to address these questions and find solutions to keep Medicare financially viable while maintaining the benefits levels and quality of services for future generations.
But in blunt terms, the fundamental question may be: Will our elected leaders work together to improve the healthcare for older adults – or will they give up and say we can no longer afford “old” people?
If you like country music from the 50’s, you’ll want to hear Jeanne Coady perform in a free “Tribute Concert to Patsy Cline” at The Springs at Mill Creek’s new Outdoor Amphitheater (1201 W 10th) on Thursday, August 18thstarting at 7:00. Because there is limited seating, please bring blankets or LOW sitting chairs for the grass area.
I’ve found reminders a good thing, so here are a couple quick second reminders.
Write down your most memorable experiences with your grandchildren in 300 words or less, and send it to the Center by September 3rd. And it can just be handwritten if you like. The grand prize for best story is a $300 Shilo Inn gift certificate and runner up prizes include three one-year subscriptions to The Dalles Chronicle.
Thursday, August 18th is Free Day at the Wasco County Fair and Rodeo sponsored by The Dalles Disposal, plus there is a free Senior Picnic in the Park starting at 11:00 – thanks to the generous support of Flagstone, Area Agency on Aging, Hearts of Gold Caregivers and Canyon Rim Manor.
There’s music and dancing at the Center on Tuesday nights; and on August 23rdCountry Road will be playing. Doors open at 6:00, music starts at 7:00, and donations are appreciated.
The first televised National Convention was in 1952 and the anchor was Walter Cronkite – “the most trusted man in America”. (This week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket is Ron Nelson. And last week’s winner was Jim Ayres who reminded me that he was the one who told me you had to wait an hour before swimming.)
Patsy Cline had been performing for many years before she had her breakout national exposure in 1955 singing “Walkin after Midnight” on the television show Talent Scouts. It was hosted by an American radio and television broadcaster and entertainer who played the ukulele and was nicknamed “Old Redhead”. For this week’s “Remember When” question, what was his name? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or mail it with the 1951 hit recording, “What is a Boy”.
Well, it’s been another week, when I’m REALLY looking forward to sweater weather. Until we meet again, try something different. You may be pleasantly surprised.
What children need most are the essentials that grandparents provide in abundance. They give unconditional love, kindness, patience, humor, comfort, lessons in life. And, most importantly, cookies. ~Rudy Giuliani

Aging Well in the Gorge August 9th 2016

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Often I write about the importance of volunteers to the Center and to all the local non-profits in the area. At the Center, volunteers have started and lead most of the activities including many of the exercise and movement classes, card games, quilters and more.
But the Center is always looking for new ideas, and if there is something you enjoy and think others might also, we can find a space for you. For example, Edna Chandler enjoyed playing Dominoes when visiting her family in Hawaii and now she has started a Dominoes group at the Center every Tuesday at 1:00. Evelyn Brown enjoys playing the Ukulele and is now leading a small Ukulele class for all levels on Wednesday afternoons at 3:00. Everyone is invited to join either of these new activities or any of the other activities at the Center. You don’t have to be a member to participate – although we hope you will see the Center’s value and eventually become one.
I’ve heard so many stories about the joys of having grandchildren, great grandchildren and even great-great grandchildren that one of these days I hope to enjoy the pleasure of my own grandchildren – although coaching seventy enthusiastic, young swimmers on The Dalles Swim Team fills in quite well.
So I’m sure you have stories of your most memorable experiences with your grandchildren. And as you may have read, the Center, with the help of The Dalles Chronicle and BiCoastal Media, is asking you to share those special stories in 300 words or less. Mail them to the Center at 1112 W 9th Street, The Dalles, OR 97058, email them to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, or just drop them off at the Center before September 3rd. There will be prizes for the best ones including a grand prize of a $300 Shilo Inn gift certificate. The Dalles Chronicle staff has graciously offered to do the judging, and to keep it fair no names will appear on the entries being judged. And to make it sound like one of those national contests – all entries become the property of the Mid-Columbia Senior Center.
Jean Vercouteren would like to me to help spread the word that the Gray Century Ranch, begun in 1868, will be the subject of a free presentation by fourth generation co-owner Nancy Gray Proctor at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 13th, at the Moody/Rorick House located at 300 W. 13th St., The Dalles. As the presentation will be held outside, lawn chairs are welcomed.
If you are planning to attend the free County Fair Picnic on Thursday, August 18that the Wasco County Fair and Rodeo, but don’t have a ride, the LINK is providing a bus to take the first fourteen folks who call the Center and sign up – for free. The bus leaves the Center at 10:00 to arrive at the fair in time for the 11:00 picnic. The County Fair Picnic is made possible by the generous support of Flagstone, Area Agency on Aging, Hearts of Gold Caregivers and Canyon Rim Manor.
There’s always music and dancing at the Center on Tuesday nights, and on August 16th, the Simcoe Boys will be playing. Doors open at 6:00, music starts at 7:00, and donations are appreciated.
My parents allowed me to do many things that are considered unsafe today, but I had to wait one hour before going swimming. For some reason they thought I would drown from cramps. (This is a little embarrassing, although not unusual, but I can’t remember who told me their correct answer last week. So whoever you are, could you tell me again. But I did remember that I forgot Kay Havig from the week before, who called in the correct answer to the “Beep, Beep” question and wins a quilt raffle ticket.)
The Republican and Democratic National Conventions use to be rough and tumble affairs before television came along. Now the conventions are often described as “sanitized, made–for-television, infomercials”. For this week’s “Remember When” question, what year was the first televised national convention and who was the anchor? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or mail it with a picture of “the most trusted man in America”.
Well, it’s been another week, looking forward to sweater weather. Until we meet again, not all that is said was worth saying.
“Becoming a grandmother is wonderful. One moment you’re just a mother. The next you are all-wise and prehistoric.” Pam Brown