Aging Well in the Gorge January 5th 2016

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Have you forgotten a hair appointment or couldn’t remember whether or not you took your medications? These situations can be embarrassing – or worse, life threatening. These are examples of one of the most critical types of memory: prospective memory – the ability to remember to remember.

Prospective memory is a form of memory that involves remembering to perform a planned action sometime in the future. Remembering involves retrieving information from long term memory facilitated by cues: a song, a face, or an object. The difficulty with prospective memory is there are often no cues to remind you to remember.

The best strategy is to create your own cues. They can be physical cues: writing a reminder note, using a pillbox or setting a timer. (Although I have found a timer will remind me to do something, if I can only remember what that something is.) Often I use my car keys as a physical cue. I place them next to the item I want to remember, knowing I won’t get out of the driveway without my keys – and what I need to take with me.

Or you can create an imaginary cue. The most effective are wild and crazy images that are related to what you are trying to remember. For example, if you need to remember to turn off the lights when you leave, imagine the doorknob as a hot lightbulb.

Another suggestion is when you do remember, do it! We are more easily distracted as we age and more likely to forget what we were doing or need to do. When you remember to take your medications, don’t wait till after you take out the trash.

Prospective memory, the ability to remember to remember, becomes more difficult as we age. But by knowing the challenges, we can adapt so we don’t forget important tasks. To learn more, I’ll be discussing prospective memory at the Center’s 11:00 Tuesday Lecture on January 12th.
You always wanted to send emails to friends, or check-in with family on Facebook or even Skype with your grandkids. So this Christmas you finally broke down and bought yourself a new laptop computer or the latest tablet. But now you have to figure out how to operate the darn thing – and whatever happened to instruction manuals!

There are several resources available to help you get up and running. At the Center, there is the iPad User’s Group that meets at 1:00 on the first Wednesday of every month; plus computer/tablet help on Wednesday mornings at 9:00.

In addition, The Dalles/Wasco County Library offers classes covering Computer Basics, Email or Microsoft Word on Fridays at 9:00; drop-in help on Saturdays at 10:00 and 2:00; and by appointment, one-on-one help with software issues and tech skills. For more information call 541-296-2815 or stop by the check-out desk.

But the best advice is just to play around on your device. Discover what works and what doesn’t. If you feel more comfortable with a manual (even though they now seem like a relic of the past) you can usually find an electronic manual online. And as the last result, Google your question. Most every time you’ll find an answer – although I won’t promise you’ll understand it!

At the Center on January 12th starting at 6:30 PM, Andre, KC and Tom will be performing for your dancing and listening pleasure. Everyone is welcome and donations are always appreciated.

The name of the educational television series, hosted by Walter Cronkite, where CBS correspondents would report on the dramatic reenactment of historical events was You Are There. (The winner of a free quilt raffle ticket is Don McAllister, who said he watched it every week.)

Whenever I meet anyone named Judy, I imagine Cary Grant saying “Judy, Judy, Judy”. But when I was on the Coffeebreak with Al Wynn last month, I learned that Cary Grant never actually said those words. They were first spoken during a nightclub performance by a comedic actor who was impersonating Cary Grant when Judy Garland walk in. For this week’s “Remember When” question, who was this actor who also played Corporal Randolph Agarn on F Troop? Email your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or mail it with a picture of the actor with Forrest Tucker and Ken Berry.

Well, it’s been another week waiting to see what the weather brings next. Until we meet again, stay warm – inside and out.

“Use what talent you possess: the woods would be very silent if no birds sang except those that sang best.” Unattributed

Aging Well in the Gorge December 29th 2015

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As we celebrate the achievement of making it to the end of another year upright in body and mind, I want to thank all of you who have taken the time to read this column that I have had the pleasure of writing since 2008. I hope you have found something worthwhile – at least often enough to keep coming back to see if there are any more helpful ideas left on the grocery shelves.

My intent is to share with you useful information I have discovered about growing older – in good health with grace and confidence; and to also share a few insights I have acquired from the wonderful folks I meet daily who are full of life, gratitude and simple wisdom.

I also hope to offer some encouragement to keep up the good fight, to focus on what you can do and not fret about what you can’t, and to keep active and engaged – as I hope someone will for me when I find the challenges as I get older becoming more frequent and difficult.

We are unique creatures – each one of us different from the other which makes life so wondrous. Life isn’t a 1950’s black and white television sitcom. Life is full of colors and textures. And every person I meet adds to that tapestry – making life fascinating and surprising.

We are all far from perfect and as we hope others will accept our imperfections, we learn to accept the imperfections of others. And yet, knowing we are imperfect, we are still often surprised when someone makes a mistake or is rude or angry. This thought is stated more succinctly by an Eleanor Roosevelt quote which I feel is worth sharing again as we enter a new year.

“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.”

So with love and charity, I hope this New Year brings you love, peace of mind and an ample share of happiness.

The Center and Meals-on-Wheels will be closed New Year’s Day, but will be open all day New Year’s Eve. And since New Year’s Eve falls on a Thursday, Meals-on-Wheels will be hosting a special New Year’s Eve Bingo Party – as long as the weather cooperates and I’ll bet you two to one it will. For this special evening the minimum buy-in is $20 which includes dinner and door prizes. If you want to enjoy an evening out and a chance to win some cash this is the place to be. You’ll get back home in plenty of time to usher in the New Year – if you can stay up that late. All the fun starts at 6:00 PM, but if you haven’t played before you should come at least a half hour early to learn the games.

And there is more Bingo excitement at the Center on Saturday Night, January 2nd when you could win $1000 if you blackout on the last game in 58 numbers or less. Doors open at 4:00, concessions available at 4:30 and games start at 6:00.

For the Tuesday Night Music and Dance at the Center on January 5th, Andre, KC and Tom will be performing. Music starts at 6:30, everyone is welcome and donations are always appreciated.

The prize Ralphie’s dad won in the holiday movie classic A Christmas Story was a lamp shaped like a leg wearing a fishnet stocking. (The winner of a free quilt raffle ticket is Bill Van Nice.)

Before he became the anchor of the CBS Evening News, earning the reputation as “the most trusted man in America”, Walter Cronkite hosted several shows including an historical educational television series where CBS reporters would report on the dramatic reenactment of a historical event. What was the name of the show? Email your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or mail it with the episode when Paul Newman played Marcus Brutus in “The Assassination of Julius Caesar”.

Well, it’s been another week appreciating the past, celebrating the present and looking forward to the New Year. Until we meet again, don’t turn off the lights and shut the door too soon.

“As you slide down the banisters of life, may the splinters never point the wrong way.” Irish Toast

Aging Well in the Gorge December 22nd 2015

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This week my wife and I will be flying to Palo Alto, California to hang out with the children for Christmas – visiting the local coffee and tea shops, discussing their studies, politics, and life in general; and for the first time, meeting the parents of my son’s girlfriend.

 I don’t know how you felt, but I’m a little anxious. I have been asked to try to make a good impression, but that’s not easy. I feel like the country mouse visiting the sophisticated big city mice not knowing what all the rules are. I have learned through painful experience (and to the amusement of everyone else around the table) that when you dine at an Italian restaurant you don’t order Thousand Island dressing. And when the waiter comes to your table to pepper your salad, you are supposed to tell him when to stop. Who teaches you these rules! And what other rules don’t I know? 

And then there are the get-acquainted conversations. How do you communicate with someone you haven’t met; to get to know them and them to know you? To help in this hour of need, and since many of you may be visiting family also, I thought I would share once again some tips on effective communication condensed from the website workingcaregiver.com. They are important in any relationship – particularly if you are trying to make a good impression.

1. Breathe. Start with a deep breath to relax and give yourself time to pull your thoughts together.
2. Ask questions. Find out what is really going on. Don’t take anything for granted – you know what happens when you assume.
3. Really listen. Hear and understand their experiences and opinions, and listen for any fears driving their responses that they may not even realize. And don’t argue.
4. Slow down. Take your time and think before you respond. Silence can be golden.
5. Speak directly to the person. Set aside time to have one-on-one conversations. And avoid multi-tasking.
6. Speak distinctly and clearly. Many of us don’t like to admit, we have trouble understanding conversations.
7. Laugh. When appropriate, humor can help ease tense situations.

I’ll be memorizing those tips. But here’s probably the most valuable piece of advice which my wife often reminds of because I always forget, “Just because it pops into your head, it does NOT mean it should come out of your mouth”.

Although he may not look like an angel, Paul Lepinski was the Center’s angel last Thursday when he plowed the snow off the parking lot allowing the Center and Meals-on-Wheels to open on Friday. The Center has been blessed by folks like Paul who step forward when they see a need without being asked.

Part of the Center’s mission is to provide opportunities for older adults to continue their lifelong learning such as the Tuesday Lectures, Brain Fitness Club, and Lunch with TED. But one of the most valuable community resources is The Dalles-Wasco County Library where in addition to borrowing books, DVDs and CD’s, you can join a book discussion group or a ukulele group, find adult coloring materials and receive free tech help.

But a journey of lifelong learning begins at an early age. And after years of hard work, this Wednesday, December 23rd at 11:00, you are invited to The Dalles/Wasco County library for the ground breaking of the new John and Jean Thomas Children’s wing – a place where all children can discover the love of learning.

Every fifth Tuesday, the Dufur Boys perform at the Center, so December 29th they’ll be performing for your listening and dancing enjoyment. Music starts at 6:30, donations are appreciated and everyone, including college students home for their Christmas break, are welcome.

The name of the game whose object was to be the first to build a three-dimensional bug-like object from a variety of plastic body parts was “Cootie”. (The winner of one quilt raffle ticket is Anne Radford – the Queen of Three Mile.)

In the holiday movie classic A Christmas Story, Ralphie’s dad completed a series of newspaper puzzles sponsored by a soda pop company. For this week’s “Remember When” question what was the prize he won that produced a “soft glow of electric sex”? Email your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or mail it with a case of orange flavored Nehi cola.

Well, it’s been another week counting my blessings. Until we meet again, may you have a peaceful and joyful Christmas.

“Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful.” Norman Vincent Peale

Aging Well in the Gorge December 16 2015

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The holidays are a time when families often get together. And whether you are a parent or the adult child, it is a good opportunity to spend some quality time sharing your hopes, concerns and fears. They are tough conversations and they don’t happen often enough.
One reason, often lingering in the background, is the uneasiness created by the conflicting interests of safety and independence. We want safety for our loved ones, but want independence for ourselves. Before parents were concerned about their children’s safety: how late should they stay out at night, and the children were craving the independence of driving. And now the adult children are concerned about their parent’s safety: should they give up the car keys, while the parents are clinging to their own independence.
Make time to have those tough conversations. It will be worth it. And knowing that your children aren’t telling you what to do, but are worried about your safety; or as the adult child, knowing that your parents aren’t being unreasonable, but value their own independence which they see gradually slipping away, you not only may survive these conversations, but actually create a stronger and more supportive relationship. 
During the year if you have donated to a qualifying cultural non-profit, don’t forget to make a donation in the same amount to the Oregon Cultural Trust, because for your donation to the Cultural Trust, you’ll receive a 100% state tax credit, up to $500 per individual and $1000 per household. 
Locally, there are twenty-two qualifying cultural organizations in Wasco County including the Cascade Singers, Civic Auditorium, Dufur Historical Society, The Original Courthouse, Fort Dalles Museum, The Dalles Theater Company, St. Peters Landmark, The Dalles Art Association, The Dalles Wasco County Library Foundation, The Town and Country Players in Maupin, Wasco County Historical Society, and Wonderworks – as well as the Sherman County Historical Society in Sherman County.
But why donate to the Oregon Cultural Trust? Besides making possible cultural projects throughout Oregon, the Oregon Cultural Trust funds the Wasco County Cultural Coalition which awards six to ten grants each year including the Center’s Creative Arts Program. It’s a good deal and with the tax credit, it doesn’t cost you a penny!
You are invited to the Center’s Holiday Breakfast this Saturday, December 19thsponsored by Columbia Basin Care. From 8:00 until 9:30, the kitchen crew will be serving pancakes, scrambled eggs, bacon, fruit and juice – still for only $5.00 per person, $4.00 for Center members and $3.00 for children 12 and under. There will be a quilt raffle drawing, a chance to win several door prizes and of course Santa who is taking a day off from the North Pole.
One of the enemies of memory are distractions: taking our focus away from what we are trying to remember. Unfortunately, as we age, we generally have more difficulty ignoring distracting information. For this week’s music announcement, see how easily distracted you are by trying to read only the italicized words while ignoring the others.
For the Tuesday Night Music Gorge Winds Concert Band and Dance Cascade Singers at the Center on December 22nd, Country Handel’s Messiah Roads will be performing. Silent Night And don’t forget, for the Christmas Eve church services winter months, (although stockings winter doesn’t begin Bing Crosby until December 21st), Saturday Breakfast the band starts playing Alamo Bowl at 6:30 PM. Everyone Merry Christmas is welcome whether Happy New Year you’re tall, short, wide or thin, and donations Peace on Earth are always appreciated.
The best-selling single of all time sung by Bing Crosby in the film Holiday Inn was “White Christmas”. (The winner of a free quilt raffle ticket is Lucille Stephens.)
Continuing the Christmas theme, this week’s “Remember When” question is about a game that if you were a child in the 50’s you may have received as a Christmas present. What was the name of the game, first launched in1948 and sold millions in its first years, whose object was to be the first to build a three-dimensional bug-like object from a variety of plastic body parts? Email your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or mail it with the 1949 original game manufactured by W. H. Schaper Mfg. Co. Inc.
Well, it’s been another week trying to remember “this” while not being distracted by “that”. Until we meet again, don’t forget to smell the pine needles.
“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

Aging Well in the Gorge December 8th 2015

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When you’re sick or feeling some kind of physical discomfort, do you ask yourself, Should I make a doctor’s appointment? Should I wait and see if it gets worse? Or is it serious enough that I should go to ER right now?
After I broke my hip, I waited a day thinking and hoping I had just bruised my muscle or bone. But the next day, when suddenly in the middle of the Center’s parking lot I couldn’t put any weight on my leg, I knew it was time to drive myself to the hospital – after I figured out how to get to the car.
But there are situations when you should be less optimistic and a little more expeditious than I was. In an article for UC San Diego Health, an academic medical center in San Diego, Scott LaFee identifies the following ten medical symptoms that you shouldn’t ignore.
1. Chest pain: Extreme discomfort that feels like squeezing, pressure or tightness. May be accompanied by pain radiating down an arm, nausea, vomiting, sweating or difficulty breathing.
2. Shortness of breath: A sudden feeling that you’re breathing faster than usual, without obvious explanation, and without good effect. Worsens when you lie flat or exert yourself. Wheezing or gasping.
3. Sudden intense headache: This is head pain unlike anything you’ve felt before, peaking in seconds or minutes.
4. Unexplained weight loss: Losing more than 5 percent of your body weight without trying in less than six months.
5. Unusual bleeding: For example, rectal bleeding or black or tarry stools. Or bloody vomit.
6. High or persistent fever: Anything 103 degrees Fahrenheit or higher warrants an immediate trip to the doctor, without exception. A low-grade fever (somewhere around 100 degrees) for several weeks with no obvious cause should also be checked out.
7. Sudden confusion: Or inexplicable changes in personality, aggression or an inability to concentrate.
8. Swelling in the legs: Persistent, accumulated fluid (edema) in the extremities.
9. Sudden or severe abdominal pain: Centralized around the belly button. Sharp and unexpected.
10. Flashes of light: Bright spots, flashes or other visual disturbances.
There can be many reasons for these symptoms – some life threatening and others more benign. If you want to learn more, I have posted the entire article on the Center’s website, www.midcolumbiaseniorcentr.com, under the HEALTH tab.
When the snow arrived last Wednesday, followed by rain that decided to come early dressed as ice, it made it difficult to get around town. And so not to encourage folks to take unnecessary chances, the Center was closed on Wednesday and Thursday causing several events at the Center to be postponed to this week.
One was the presentation by John Brenne, Project Director for the Foster Grandparent Program, who decided driving from Pendleton wasn’t the best idea. But he has been rescheduled to speak at the Center at 1:00 on Wednesday, December 8th. As a quick reminder, the Foster Grandparent program places adults age 55 or over in schools to help young children become better readers. A unique benefit of being a Foster Grandparent is you receive a non-taxable stipend of $2.65 to cover volunteer expenses.
Also Thursday Night Bingo was canceled which means this coming Thursday you still have a chance to win $1000 if you blackout on the last game in 60 numbers or less. I’ll bet you someone goes home with an extra $1000 for Christmas shopping. And for those who want a bite to eat, they’ll be serving Johnny’s special Hamburgers with Potato Salad.
For the Tuesday Night Music and Dance on December 15th, the Simcoe Boys will be performing. Music starts at 6:30, everyone is welcome and donations are always appreciated.
The name of the 1960’s television series featuring special agents 86 (Don Adams) and 99 (Barbara Feldon) was Get Smart. (The winner of a free quilt raffle ticket is Don McAllister.)
This week’s “Remember When” question is from one of my favorite holiday movies. In the 1942 film Holiday Inn starring Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire, Bing Crosby sang what became the best-selling single of all time. What was the name of the song? Email your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or mail it with the 1942, 78 rpm release of the song on Decca records.
Well, it’s been another week trying not to slip and slide away. Until we meet again, don’t let fear spoil the season of peace.

“Christmas, my child, is love in action. Every time we love, every time we give, it’s Christmas.” Dale Evans

Aging Well in the Gorge December 1st 2015

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You’re never too old to make a difference in the lives of others. A common method is to donate money to an organization whose mission you believe in. But not all of us have the financial resources to give to the extent we would like. But there is one thing most of us do have, and that is time. You can make a difference by giving your time volunteering at one of the many local non-profit organizations.
The Foster Grandparent Program is one program seeking volunteers. As a Foster Grandparent you volunteer between 20 and 40 hours a week providing reading assistance to children who need additional support and encouragement. To qualify you have be 55 or older and in good health; and meet certain income guidelines which for a one person household is an income of no more than $1942 a month. If selected you will receive a non-taxable stipend of $2.65 an hour to cover any expenses associated with volunteering.
John Brenne, Project Director for the Foster Grandparent Program that serves Wasco County, will be in The Dalles on Thursday December 3rd. He will be on the KODL Coffeebreak at 10:00 and at the Center at 1:00 to explain more about the program and how you can become a Foster Grandparent helping young children become better readers.
Habitat for Humanity’s Annual Bazaar is on Saturday, December 5th at the UCC church from 10 am until 2 pm. For many it has become a holiday tradition: a place where you can find baked goods, craft vendors as well as soup and pie for lunch. All proceeds go to support the good work of the local Habitat for Humanity.
The Center has scaled back its Saturday Breakfasts to only three special occasions each year: Cherry Festival, Ft Dalles Days and December to celebrate the holidays. This year’s holiday breakfast will be served on Saturday, December 19thfrom 8:00 – 9:30 and is sponsored by Columbia Basin Care Facility. The menu will feature pancakes, scrambled eggs and bacon plus hot cider to keep your insides warm. There will be a quilt raffle drawing, prizes, plus a visit from Santa. And as Santa would tell you “Breakfast always tastes better when someone else cooks it.”
It’s fun to talk about the weather, but there isn’t much we can do about it. And as in most situations in life, we learn to accept and adapt. But there will be days this winter when the weather will make us ask ourselves: Should I drive? Are the sidewalks too icy? Is the Center open? Why didn’t I go to Arizona for the winter!? For those cold and slippery days, the Center will follow the lead of School District 21. If D-21 is closed, the Center will be closed. And if there is a two hour delay, the Center’s morning classes will be cancelled.
You probably know there is Bingo every Thursday and Saturday nights at the Center starting at 6:00 pm, but did you know you can purchase snacks and a simple meal starting at 4:30. Besides candy, chips and hot dogs, every night there is a special. This Thursday Chef Johnny will be serving his Johnny Burgers and on Saturday the special is Chili Dogs.
For the Tuesday Night Music and Dance on December 8th, Martin and Friends will be performing. Music starts at 6:30, everyone is welcome and donations are always appreciated.
Patsy Cline’s classic “Crazy” was written by the red headed stranger – Willie Nelson. (The winner of a free quilt raffle ticket is Jesse Birge who saw Willie Nelson perform in 2013 at one of the Maryhill Winery Summer Concerts.)
With the latest James Bond movie in the theaters, it reminded me of a television series in the 1960’s described as “an insane combination of James Bond and Mel Brooks comedy.” For this week’s “Remember When” question, what was the name of this television series featuring special agents 86 and 99 working for CONTROL and fighting the evil international organization KAOS? Email your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or mail it with a shoe phone or the original Cone of Silence.
Well, it’s been another week trying to hit the nail on the head without smashing my thumb. Until we meet again, as author and photographer Dewitt Jones said, “Celebrate what is right in the world, so you can change what is wrong”.

“Sunshine is delicious, rain is refreshing, wind braces us up, snow is exhilarating; there is really no such thing as bad weather, only different kinds of good weather.” John Ruskin

Aging Well in the Gorge November 24th 2015

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As we rush around from here to there and back again, Thanksgiving is the time of the year to slow down, take a deep breath, and offer that simplest of prayers – “Thank-you”. A thank-you for the many blessings we receive – visible, but often out of focus, as we are distracted by our daily activities and the harsh noise of senseless acts of violence and inflammatory talk.
As we reflect during this season, what are you thankful for? A caring spouse, because you know friends who are living alone? Or if living alone, the ability to drive because you know many who cannot? Or if unable to drive, thankful for LINK or your friends who take you to where you want to go? Every day we are blessed in many meaningful ways.
For myself, as long as I can wake up each morning – and my feet touch the floor, the hot water is running and I hear the sweet sounds of my wife reminding me “Don’t forget to take out the trash!”, there is another day to give thanks.
The Wahtonka Community School is partnering with the Center to initiate an Oral History Project. The idea is for high school students to interview older adults about their experiences as they grew up – what may seem like to the students a long, long time ago. I’ve heard many stories at the Center about growing up during the depression, serving our country during WW II, or just stories of youthful mischief: knocking over outhouses on Halloween – which I am sure none of you have done. Fascinating stories that will be lost if not shared. The first interviews will be on Tuesday, December 8th between 12:45 and 2:00. If you are interested in helping these young students by sharing your stories, call the Center to sign up.
The Center is starting its 2016 membership drive – hoping to surpass last year’s very successful membership drive of over four hundred members. The membership dues are still $35.00 for an individual or $60 for a couple – or if you want to give a little more towards the operations of the Center, you can become a Super Duper Member for $50 per person. Memberships are a vital part of the annual operating budget for the Center – generating over $15,000 a year. You can mail your membership to 1112 W 9th Street, The Dalles, or you can stop by the Center. And for any youngsters out there, you can be a member at any age, although you have to be over fifty to vote at the Center’s annual meeting in July.
You don’t have to be Beverly Sills or Enrico Caruso to join the Center’s Young at Heart Serenaders, but you do need to enjoy singing and sharing the music with others.  Phyllis Farner, the Center’s music director, is looking for a few more voices to join the Serenaders who meet Thursdays at 10:30 and perform during the holidays at several of the local living facilities.
If you are a Facebook user, check out “Sunny The Dalles”: a place to post all the great reasons to live in The Dalles. It was created by Kathy Ursprung as a counterbalance to the complaints and controversies you often find on social media and in the news. But don’t ask me how to find the page on Facebook, since I am a Facebook novice. I am expecting all the regular Facebook users to know how.
For the Tuesday Night Music and Dance on December 1st, Andre, KC and Tom will be performing. And don’t forget during the winter months music starts at 6:30 and ends by 8:30. Everyone is welcome, whether you are a Duck fan, Beaver fan or a fan of one of those other northwest teams. And donations are always appreciated.
Minnie Pearl, whose catchphrase was “How-w-w-DEE-E-E-E!”’ was the female country comedian who always wore a hat with the price tag still attached. (The winner of a free quilt raffle ticket is Ron Holliday.)
Patsy Cline was one of the most influential and successful singers in country music. We all know her signature song, “Crazy”, but for this week’s “Remember When” question, who wrote the song? Email your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or mail it with a picture of the red headed stranger.
Well, it’s been another week trying keep the bird in my hand and out of my hair. Until we meet again, enjoy good company and have a wonderful Thanksgiving.
“There is nothing better than a friend, unless it is a friend with chocolate.”  Linda Grayson

Aging Well in the Gorge November 17th 2015

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The Dalles is a wonderful community with so many folks working to make it even better – demonstrated by the support the Center has received for the UpLifitng Elevator Campaign. But that is just one of many capital construction projects the community has supported through local giving. The Wonderworks Children’s Museum last year finally owns their building, and The Dalles/Wasco County Library is moving towards construction of the John and Jean Thomas Children’s Wing. Also the Civic Auditorium Historic Preservation Board is still working hard to restore the 900-1000 seat theater. And just recently, Joe Martin announced a donation of land to give new life to his 15 year vision of building a Youth Center.
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I believe the community has the capacity to complete these remaining capital construction projects – making our community even stronger for our youth, families and older adults. Admittedly, it will take more hard work and hundreds of small $25 – $100 donations, but also larger gifts such as the anonymous $50,000 to the Uplifting Elevator Campaign and the $100,000 matching donation that kicked off the library’s expansion project. With the passion and commitment behind these projects, and the community’s generosity – particularly of older adults, I know they will be completed.
There is good news to report about the UpLifting Elevator Campaign. From this most recent mailing, the Center has received over $8,000 in individual donations which brings the total of local dollars raised from individuals and business to just shy of $130,000.
We have also been fortunate to receive several large foundation grants: a Ford Family Foundation grant of $115,000, a Collins Foundation grant of $20,000 and just last week we heard the Center will receive $15,000 from the Oregon Community Foundation.
In addition we have been designated to receive several local grants: $10,000 from the PUD, $5,000 from the MCMC Health Foundation, and a Rural Community grant $1500 from Northwest Farm Credit Services.
Because of your generous donations, the Center has raised $295,000 towards the estimated $380,000 cost. It has taken many years, but we are getting so close, I can almost hear the elevator coming up the shaft.  
If you haven’t given, I hope you will consider making a donation before the end of the year. There are many worthwhile projects in the community. It is time to complete the Uplifting Elevator Campaign and check it off the list.
With everything so perfectly manufactured by high tech programmable machines, it is refreshing to purchase something handmade – and sometimes with a few mistakes to prove it. You will get a chance to purchase that perfect gift Saturday November 21st at the Holiday Bazaars at St. Mary’s from 9:00 – 4:00 and at the Center from 9:00 – 3:00.
If you are trying to navigate your way through the landmines of computers and tablets, there is help. Besides the Center’s drop in class every Wednesday at 9:00, The Dalles – Wasco County Library offers drop-in tech help on Mondays and Saturdays at 10:30; plus you can make an appointment with a Tech Tutor by calling 541-296-2815. The library also offers several classes this month: beginning email class on Friday November 20th and Social Media on Wednesday November 25th at 1:30 PM.
For the Tuesday Night Music and Dance on November 24th, Country Roads will be performing. But during the winter months of December and January music will be starting at 6:30 and over by 8:30, so you can be in bed by 9:00 for you early risers. Everyone is welcome and donations are always appreciated.
The leader of the Chinese Nationalists when they were forced by the Chinese Communist to retreat to Taiwan was Chiang Kai-shek. (The winner of a free quilt raffle ticket is the student of history, Joann Scott.)
Last week, along with a bag of clothes, a woman’s hat with the price tag still attached was donated to the Nu-2-U Shop. And if you are thinking what I am thinking, you already know this week’s “Remember When” Question. What female country comedian appeared on the Grand Ole Opry for more than 50 years and whose hat is on display in the National Museum of American History. Email your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or mail it with the directions to Grinder’s Switch, Tennessee.
Well, it’s been another week trying to walk on the bright side. Until we meet again, remember it’s easier to ride the horse in the direction it’s going.

“I’m sick of following my dreams. I’m just going to ask them where they’re goin’, and hook up with them later.” Mitch Hedberg

Aging Well in the Gorge November 10th 2015

Aging Well in the Gorge No Comments

As we grow older we often lose the ability to do things we took for granted when we were younger. I can no longer work all day in the yard – two hours is long enough; or drive cross country sixteen hours straight– I can’t last more than two hours without stopping and it’s not just to stretch my legs; or remembering where I parked the car – wait, that I never could do!

But it’s real slap in the face when you realize what you can no longer do. And when it happens, the often accompanying feelings of grief or even anger, may blind us to what we can still do.

Focusing on what one can do is illustrated by this poem, written by Dan Lonigro, who is an instructor for CPI which offers training in behavior management & dementia care. Dan wrote it from the perspective of a person with dementia and it is a touching reminder of the importance of seeing and believing in what a person can do and not defining a person by what they can’t.

Six Things to Know about Someone with Dementia

I don’t garden anymore, but I can still smell the flowers. Bring me some roses. This will remind me of my past.
I can’t talk the way I used to, but I can still communicate. Be patient as I try. This will help me feel connected.
I don’t have the judgment I used to, but I can still make decisions. Give me choices. This will make me feel like I’m a part of things.
I can’t take a bath by myself anymore, but I can still wash my face. Assist me with direction. This will help me feel purpose.
I can’t dance anymore, but I can still sing. Help me enjoy music. This will enrich my life.
I can’t walk unassisted anymore, but I can still move my body. Walk with me, and support me if I stumble. This will help me feel engaged.
You are my lifeline. I depend on you. But please don’t do for me what I can do for myself. Recognize what I can do and help me to function as a person.
You are key to the quality of my life.

I don’t want Pat Lucas after me as she was last week when I gave the wrong location for the Community Potluck on Veteran’s Day. So to make sure we have it all straight, the Community Potluck following the Veteran’s Day Parade will be held at the Oregon Veteran’s Home. Did I do better this time, Pat?

And for those of you who have short memories, don’t forget the other events on Veteran’s Day: Community Veterans Thank You Breakfast at the Civic from 7 – 10 AM (free for Veteran’s/$5 for civilians); the Veteran’s Day Parade at 11:00, and a fireworks display at 6:00. It’s going to be quite a day.

There will be a Flea Market organized by Meals-on-Wheels from 9:00 – 2:00 at the Center on Saturday, November 14th. There will be household items, antiques, old dolls, tools and much more – as well as soup and sandwiches for sale. Come by and check it out.

Because the AARP Smart Driver Class is upstairs (there is still room to signup) and the Zumba Gold class is downstairs (a fun way to stay fit), there will not be a Tuesday Lecture on November 17th.

For the Tuesday Night Music and Dance on November 17th, the Simcoe Boys will be playing their special brand of country. Doors open at 6:00, music starts at 7:00, everyone is welcome and donations are appreciated.

For us old timers who remember baseball in the 50’s and 60’s, there will be only one great knuckleball pitcher and that is Hoyt Wilhelm. (The winner of a free quilt raffle ticket is the trivia whiz-kid, Jim Heitkemper.)

This week’s “Remember When” question is related to the recent historic meeting between the leaders of China and Taiwan – their first in more than 60 years. Back in 1949, who was the leader of the Chinese Nationalists when the Chinese Communist forced them to retreat to Taiwan? Email your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or mail it with maps of the islands Quemoy and Matsu.

Well, it’s been yet another week trying to keep my nose above water. Until we meet again, there’s nothing wrong with chasing a rainbow now and then.

“The secret of staying young is to live honestly, eat slowly, and lie about your age.” Lucille Ball

Aging Well in the Gorge November 3rd 2015

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Whoa. Someone hold the hands on the clock! Time is moving way too fast. Halloween is over and now it’s November – the month when we scramble to get everything done before all the December Christmas activities. And then before we notice, we’ll be back cutting grass and wearing shorts. No one wonder I always feel tired.
But until then, here are a few of this month’s events starting with the Veteran’s Day activities.

The Mid-Columbia Veterans “Stand Down” will be held on Saturday, November 7th from 11:00 – 2:30 at the Civic Auditorium to honor our veterans and their families, as well as offering information about available services. Coffee and lunch will be provided. For more information call 541-296-5435 ext. 225.

On Tuesday, November 10th, The Dalles Middle School invites the community to their 10:00 assembly to pay tribute to local veterans – followed by a free lunch for the veterans. The Middle School is also looking for military items such as medals, old uniforms, or photos anyone would like to share. For more information contact Larry Fairclo at 541-506-3449 ext. 4126.

And Pat Lucas would be after me if I didn’t mention the annual Veteran’s Day Parade starting at 11:00 AM at 6th and Webber. Following the parade will be a community potluck lunch at Fort Dalles Readiness Center (new Armory at 402 E. Scenic Dr.). Bring either a hot dish, a large salad or dessert. Place servings and drinks will be furnished.
Also on the 11th, Meals-on-Wheels will be open to honor our local veterans during their noon dinner. And to give their dedicated staff a day off, Meals-on-Wheels will be closed on Monday November 9th.

And before the snow falls, the Center is scheduling two more trips in November– if there is enough interest.

The first trip is November 18th to visit the Portland Art Museum and their special exhibit Seeing Nature. This exhibit includes thirty nine landscape Masterpieces from the Paul Allen collection including works by Monet, Cézanne, and O’Keefe. The cost is $10 for transportation and $17 for admission.

The second trip is to attend the 11:00 matinee performance of the Singing Christmas Tree in Portland on Saturday December 5th. This seasonal favorite costs $65 which includes transportation. If you are interested in either trip, call the Center at 541-296-4788.

Because of cancellations, there are still four tickets available for the overnight trip to Lincoln City to see the show Vicki Lawrence and Mama at the Chinook Winds on November 21st. That trip is $70 for the show and transportation, but you will need to reserve your own hotel room. Call the Center for more details.

And the holiday season can’t be complete without the bazaars. The Center will be hosting a Holiday Bazaar on November 21st from 9:00 – 3:00. The date may sound familiar because it is the same day as the 37th Annual Holiday Bazaar at St. Mary’s – the granddaddy of bazaars. Stop by and visit both holiday bazaars as you start your early Christmas shopping.

How would you have liked the chance to spend a year of high school in another country half way around the globe? Through the Rotary Youth Exchange Program, The Dalles High School student Max McClennan had that chance spending a year in Denmark – a country which happens be in the political discussion these days. On Tuesday, November 10th at 11:00 at the Center, you are invited to hear Max share his stories about living in Denmark.

For the Tuesday Night Music and Dance on November 10th, Martin and Friends will be playing their special blend of Country Western. Doors open at 6:00, music starts at 7:00, everyone is welcome and donations are appreciated.

During the Cuban Missile Crisis, the U.S. Secretary of Defense was Robert McNamara – a Ford Motor Company “Whiz Kid” recruited by President Kennedy.

The Baseball World Series may be over, but this week’s “Remember When” question is for the baseball fans who were glued to the TV watching the series. Who was the first relief pitcher elected to the baseball Hall of Fame, pitched professionally until he was 50, and was considered by many the best knuckleball pitcher ever? Email your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or mail it with a team picture of the 1954 New York Giants.

Well, it’s been another week trying remember to look before I speak. Until we meet again, there is a reason we have two ears and one mouth.

“I love deadlines. I love the whooshing noise they make as they go by.” Douglas Adams