Author Archives: mcseniorcenter

Aging Well in the Gorge February 9th 2016

Aging Well in the Gorge No Comments

Sunday will be Valentine’s day – a day to celebrate love and romance with a box of fine chocolates, or a bouquet of flowers from Sigman’s or maybe a candlelight dinner at home with a glass of wine.

My wife and I have celebrated Valentine’s Day as a married couple for over forty years. And as with most older adults, we feel our marriage has improved and these later years have been some of the happiest years of our lives. Part of the reason is I have learned the secrets of a happy marriage: put down the toilet seat, (apparently it looks gross to women), put the cap back on the toothpaste; and answer any request from your wife with a gentle “As you wish my dear”. (But I have still been able to maintain a certain level of cave man aesthetic which I am sure she has come to lovingly appreciate.)

But then as life often happens, your spouse passes away, leaving only memories and pictures of all the special times. It is a tremendous adjustment and changes your world – even more than when you had your first child. But you learn to adapt, and life continues. And then one day, after you have learned to accept the solitude, you unexpectedly find a second love, a companion, someone to share new stories and adventures with.

It may be someone you knew from church, or an old friend from your school days you accidently found on Facebook. And you decide to remarry, or just live together or be friends with benefits. And surprisingly, you find you have never been happier in your life.

It happens to many. And Valentine’s Day reminds us when love is lost, it doesn’t mean all is lost forever – because it is never too late to find a little romance one more time.

A big thank-you to Dave Griffith Motors for sponsoring the Center’s successful Southern Fried Chicken Dinner. It would not have been possible without Griffith Motors and all the volunteers including the Red Hat ladies (Pat Lucas promised to bring me a red hat to wear next year); the donated desserts from Petite Provence and Shari’s Restaurant; Debra Jones and Donna Baldwin for arranging the center pieces for the tables; Andre Lemoreaux, KC Kortge and Sheryl Doty for the music; Denise Patton, Rick Leibowitz and the kitchen volunteers for preparing the food; and to Joan Silver for leading the charge. And last but not least, thank-you to all the folks who attended the dinner so the Center can continue to provide opportunities and supports for older adults.

There is still room in next week’s AARP Smart Driver class on Monday and Tuesday (February 15th and 16th) from 8:45 to 12:05. The cost is $20 and $15 for AARP members. You need to bring your driver’s license and a pencil. You will learn the current rules of the road, defensive driving techniques and how to operate your vehicle more safely in today’s increasingly challenging driving environment. And with completion of the class, you should be able to receive a discount on your auto insurance.

Consequently, there will not be a 11:00 Tuesday lecture, but on the 23rd, Tracy Dugick, MCMC Registered Dietician, will discuss how to eat healthy while on special diets.

At the Center on February 16th starting at 6:30 PM, the Simcoe Boys will drive all the way from Goldendale to perform for your dancing and listening pleasure. Everyone is welcome and donations are always appreciated.

The football the team that won four Super Bowls in the 1970’s and included future all-stars Terry Bradshaw, Franco Harris, “Mean Joe” Greene, Mel Blount, and Lynn Swann was the Pittsburg Steelers. (The winner of one of the hot-selling quilt raffle tickets is Morris Melton.)

In celebration of Valentine’s Day, this week’s “Remember When” question is about a film considered one of the most romantic by the American Film Institute (ranked number nine). What is the title of the movie released in 1970 starring Ryan O’Neal and Ali McGraw and made famous the line, “Love means never having to say you’re sorry.”? (Was it really forty-six years ago?) Email your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or mail it with the book of the same title written by Erich Segal.

Well, it’s been another week running further behind, but enjoying every minute. Until we meet again, as Milton Berle once said “If opportunity doesn’t knock, build a door.”

“Love isn’t something you find. Love is something that finds you.” Loretta Young

Aging Well in the Gorge February 2nd 2016

Aging Well in the Gorge No Comments
When talking to folks at the Center, I find many are using what was once considered non-traditional medical practices. In fact in the U.S more than 30 percent of adults, use health care approaches developed outside of mainstream Western, or conventional, medicine. Two of the most common practices are natural products such as herbs, vitamins and minerals, and probiotics; and mind and body practices including the most popular practices: chiropractic and osteopathic manipulation, meditation, massage therapy and yoga.
But when I hear of these non-traditional methods, I often describe them as “alternative” or “complementary” medicines, often interchanging the terms because I really didn’t know the difference. But while searching various websites for reasons I have since forgotten, I found this rather straight forward explanation on the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) website.
If a non-mainstream practice is used together with conventional medicine, it’s considered “complementary.” If a non-mainstream practice is used in place of conventional medicine, it’s considered “alternative”.
Today with the growing research on the effectiveness of various “complementary” and “alternative” practices, modern medicine no longer ignores the benefits of many of these non-western medical approaches. For example, MCMC was an early adopter when they opened the Center for Mind-Body Medicine in 1996, offering stress management, exercise, nutrition counseling and an array of non-traditional therapies to address the whole patient and their health needs.
If you are considering a complementary practice, I have learned there are several things to consider. Do your homework. Find out how effective the practice is and make sure it is safe. (For supplements, drug interactions and possible contamination are two concerns.) The NCCIH website (nccih.nih.gov.) is a good place to start. Also talk to your health care provider to make sure there are no conflicts with your current medications; and to make sure you are not missing a more serious and preventable health condition.
Like any decision concerning your health, decisions about whether to use a non-mainstream practice are important. Make sure you understand the benefits, but also the possible risks.
Last chance to remind you of the Southern Fried Chicken Dinner sponsored by Dave Griffith Motors this Friday night, February 5th, from 4:30 – 7:00 PM at the Center. Tickets are $15.00 per person and $7.50 for children 12 and under, and can be purchased at the Center or at the door on Friday. We hope this becomes a regular event on your calendar as the Baby Back Rib Dinner is on the first Friday in October.
Cuba has been in the news since President Obama started liberalizing travel restrictions in 2011 and recently reestablished diplomatic ties. Last fall, Sandy Haechrel and Susan Gabay took advantage of this thawing in relations by spending eight days in Cuba on an educational People to People Exchange.  Among the many sites they visited were the cities of Cienfuegos, Santa Clara, and Trinidad; the Cienfuegos Province Botanical Gardens and Cienaga de  Zapata National Park; the Bay of Pigs; and Hemingway’s winter home; as well as schools, senior housing, and many art and music venues. They will be sharing their experiences and impressions with a slide show at the Center’s 11:00 Tuesday Lecture on February 9th.
At the Center on February 9th starting at 6:30 PM, Martin and Friends will be performing for your dancing and listening pleasure. Everyone is welcome and donations are always appreciated.
Many folks remembered the Palmer Method and its uniform system of cursive writing. But this week’s winner of a free quilt raffle ticket is LaVerna Bolton Harmier, who started school in 1926 at Fairfield School, a one-room school near Wrentham, graduated from Dufur High School in 1938, retired from teaching in 1982, and is now living with her daughter in Portland. She learned the Palmer method as a child, and also taught it to her students, so she knows from experience.
Since next Sunday is the Super Bowl (when you can watch really expensive advertisements for really large companies scattered between really big guys banging their heads together), you know what this week’s “Remember When” question is about.
In the 1970’s, what football team won four Super Bowls and included future all-stars Terry, Franco, Joe, Mel, and Lynn. Email your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or mail it with a steel curtain.
Well, it’s been another week losing my note pad with my to-dos that I didn’t want to forget. Until we meet again, keep moving, keep laughing and keep making the best of every day.
“If it weren’t for electricity, we’d all be watching television by candlelight.” George Gobel

Aging Well in the Gorge January 26th 2016

Aging Well in the Gorge No Comments
Sometimes we think our plate is full with our own day-to-day responsibilities and health demands, but what if you have two plates to manage? That is the case with an estimated 40 million unpaid caregivers who provide annually over 37 billion hours of care because of a loved one’s debilitating disease, chronic health conditions or simple frailty. And if you haven’t been a caregiver, the majority of us will be one at some point in our lives.

Because the AARP recognizes how caring for a loved one can impact a person; and how important support and acts of kindness are to these caregivers, the AARP is hosting a contest through March 15th to help promote random acts of kindness for caregivers. AARP is encouraging folks to identify a caregiver they know and surprise them with a random act of kindness: preparing a meal, picking up the groceries, or doing that odd job – anything to show your appreciation and to make their life a little bit easier. You can find more details at https://caregiverkindness.aarp.org/.
If you are caregiver, “Powerful Tools for Caregivers” is being offered from 9:30 to noon on Thursdays for six weeks starting March 3rd. The program is designed to help family caregivers take care of themselves while caring for a relative or friend.  Class size is limited and registration is required. The class is sponsored by the Area Agency on Aging and will be held in the Mid-Columbia Council of Governments’ Board Room at 1113 Kelly Ave., The Dalles. To register call 541-298-4101 ext. 219. The cost is a suggested donation of $20, but is not required in order to attend class.
Also the PBS documentary Caring for Mom and Dad that shows the realities and challenges of caregiving, will be shown at the 11:00 Tuesday Lecture on February 2nd at the Center.  
The AARP Tax Aide Program provides free tax assistance to low and moderate income taxpayers, with special attention to folks sixty and older. It starts February 5that the Center, and will continue through April 15th on Fridays from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm and Saturdays from 9:00 am to 1:00. It is first come, first serve, and as you can imagine, it’s pretty busy the first several weeks. If you have questions about what documentation to bring, call the Center at 541-296-4788.
A couple of quick reminders – since I know we all need them.

To identify near-term solutions for better transit options in the Gorge, the Oregon Department of Transportation has initiated a Columbia River Gorge Transit Study. You are invited to complete a short online survey before January 31st about Gorge travel. You can find the survey on the Center’s website under the tab “Gorge Transit Survey”.

The Original Courthouse Regional History Forum starts on February 6th at 1:30 with Robert Boyd’s program on Rev. Henry K.W. Perkins: Forgotten Wascopam Missionary. 

You still have time to apply for the OSU Extension’s Master Gardener classes starting on Wednesday, February 17th from 9:00-4:00, but applications are due on January 27th. Contact Machelle Sager at 541-296-5494.
At the Center on February 2nd starting at 6:30 PM, Andre, K.C. and Tom will be performing for your dancing and listening pleasure. Everyone is welcome and donations are always appreciated.
As promised, the answers for last week’s quiz. 1. D) 5; 2. B) False: 3. A) 5%; 4.  A) True; 5. D) As a school reward for good behavior; 6. D) All of the above; 7. F) All of the above; 8. C) Jack Leasch; 9. C) Supportive and respectful because we share the same mission of promoting healthy aging.
Archie Andrews’ best friend in the popular comic book series Archie is Jughead. (The winner of a free quilt raffle ticket is Virginia McClain.)
This week’s “Remember When” question takes us back to our grade school days. Cursive writing has been on the decline ever since the invention of the ball point pen. (I remember when I only could use a fountain pen in class.) But back in the days when teachers still taught cursive writing instead of “keyboard skills”, what was the name of the writing method that taught students to adopt a uniform system of cursive writing with rhythmic motions? Email your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or mail it with a writing worksheet from your elementary school days.
Well, it’s been another week hoping I’m not repeating myself. Until we meet again, try to make your random acts of kindness not so random.

“Nothing is more important than the helping hand of a neighbor.” Farmer’s Wisdom

Aging Well in the Gorge January 19th 2015

Aging Well in the Gorge No Comments
The Mid-Columbia Senior Center is in the middle of its 2016 Membership Drive and more than half way towards the goal of 450 members. Individual and business memberships provide over 15% of the Center’s operating budget so the membership drive is a big deal for the sustainability of the Center. But during the membership drive, folks often ask, “What do I get for being a member?” Well, honestly there are very few tangible benefits. Whether you are a member or not, you can participate in all the Center activities – the Center is not a private club. But then why join? Because without its members, the Center would not be the valuable resource it is – helping older adults live healthy and meaningful lives.
But whether you are a member or not yet a member, here is a short quiz to test your knowledge of the Center, although there is much more to know and experience. (The answers will be in next week’s column or on the Center’s website.)
1. The Center has how many movement and exercise classes? A) 2, B) 3, C) 4. D) 5, E) None – old folks just stay home and watch TV.
2. Because the Center was built with a federal grant only individuals over 62 can use the facility.
A) True; B) False
3. What percentage of the Center budget comes from public funds? A) 5%; B) 15%; C) 30%; D) 100% – because seniors are entitled to it.
4) The initial concept for the Center included two levels, but because construction costs exceeded the available funding, the basement was not included. A) True; B) False.
5) Once a year, Colonel Wright students walk to the Center to play bingo because: A) They need the exercise; B) They like the smell of old people; C) We want them to get hooked on playing Bingo; D) As a school reward for good behavior.
6) In supporting older adults, the Center provides space at no or little cost for: A) Medicare Counseling (SHIBA), B) AARP Tax Aide, C) AARP Smart Driving Classes; D) All of the above
7) To give back to the community, the Center provides space at no cost to: A) Opportunity Connections for their Annual Meeting; B) ARC Friendship Club; C) 4-H Leatherworking Club, D) Boy Scout Troop #365; F) All of the above.
8) The Center has a close relationship with the City of The Dalles because the City donated the land and also wrote the federal grant for the Center. Who was the city planner that wrote the grant? A) Scott Keillor; B) Dan Durow; C) Jack Leasch; D) Daffy Duck.
9) The relationship between Meals-on-Wheels and the Center is: A) None, because we are the same organization with the same board; B) Difficult because you can’t imagine how hard it is to share the same space; C) Supportive and respectful because we share the same mission of promoting healthy aging; D) We’re in love!
You’ll notice several changes to this year’s “Go Red for Women’s Heart Health” event. Instead of a two day event, it has been combined into one day on Saturday, February 6thfrom 10:00 – 1:00. You’ll still find the Heart Health Expo including Health Screenings, Stretching Stations, Chair Massage and more, plus a soup and bread lunch ($3 cash) at the Heart Health Café; as well as the Heart Truth 3k/5k/10k Walk/Run starting at 10:00. It will be held at Kiwanis Pocket Park on Klindt Drive.  At the 11:00 Tuesday Lecture on January 26th, Linda Stahl, from Planetree Health Resource Center, will explain more about the “New and Improved” Go Red event.
At the Center on January 6th starting at 6:30 PM, the band Country Road will be performing for your dancing and listening pleasure. Everyone is welcome and donations are always appreciated.
The only sisters to win Oscars for Best Actress were Olivia de Havilland – To Each His Own (1946) and Joan Fontaine – Rebecca (1940). (The winner of a free quilt raffle ticket is Betsy Ayers.)
This week’s “Remember When” question is about a popular comic book series. Who was the lazy, skinny, quirky, but clever best friend of Archie Andrews? Email your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or mail it with a copy of Archie #1 published in 1942.
Well, it’s been another week waiting for the sun to come home. Until we meet again, there’s nothing wrong with trying a little tenderness.
“My memory isn’t gone. It’s just on vacation, but I expect it back soon.” Andre Lemoreaux

Aging Well in the Gorge January 12th 2016

Aging Well in the Gorge No Comments
“Pride goeth before a fall”. That familiar proverb came to mind while attending a Special Olympics swim meet. At the end of the meet, I needed to climb down from the top of the concrete bleachers, but couldn’t reach the aisle. As I was awkwardly climbing around and between folks sitting in the rows below me, with nothing to hang on except a couple of shoulders, one of my young assistant coaches, kindly offered her hand to help steady me. But I immediately thought, “No, I can do this. Does she think I’m old and clumsy?”

But then remembering when I missed a step and broke my hip several years ago; and feeling the stiffness in my knees, I realized I shouldn’t let my pride keep me from admitting to myself that it’s risky climbing down rows of bleachers; and it would be more embarrassing landing on top of someone – or worse yet, falling and breaking my other hip. That could ruin a nice day.

So being the wiser, I took her arm, which did help as I climbed down the last several rows, and thanked her for her assistance.

You’ve heard the tips to prevent falls: know the effects of your medications; improve your strength, balance, and flexibility through exercise; remove hazards in your house such as loose rugs and electrical cords; use assistive devices such grab bars for the showers and handrails on BOTH sides of the stairs; and wear sensible shoes. (Does anyone wear high heels anymore?)

But often overlooked is attitude: too proud for our own good. I still want to be the young, strong, muscular specimen of maleness that I once was. (Isn’t it great how our memories can reconstruct the past?) But that was then and this is now. And now at my age, I have finally accepted that it is often best to avoid certain risks, accept the help when offered and appreciate that someone cares – because you don’t want to let “pride goeth before a fall” – literally.

Mahjong is a game of skill and strategy that originated in China, and is similar to the card game rummy except it uses tiles instead of cards. At the Center on Fridays at 1:00, you can find folks playing Mahjong led by Corliss Marsh – our expert in residence. But there has been a growing interest in the game and if you are interested in learning how to play, there will be a Mahjong Beginner’s Day at the Center on January 29th starting at 1:00 PM. The cost is $1.00.
There will not be a Tuesday Lecture at the Center next week because of the AARP Smart Driver’s class being held at the same time. So instead you can sign up for the Smart Driver’s class, held on January 18th and 19th from 8:45 – 12:05, by calling the Center.
If Southern Fried Chicken reminds you of summer picnics, you can have a piece of summer in the middle of winter, by attending the Center’s Southern Fried Chicken Dinner sponsored by Griffith Motors from 4:30 to 7:00 on Friday, February 5th. The menu includes Southern Fried Chicken, mashed potatoes, corn, biscuit and dessert. The tickets are $15 which you can purchase at the Center or at the door while tickets last. All proceeds will benefit the Center.
At the Center on January 19th starting at 6:30 PM, the Simcoe Boys will be performing for your dancing and listening pleasure. Everyone is welcome and donations are always appreciated.
The comedic actor and impersonator who played Corporal Randolph Agarn on F Troop was Larry Storch. (The winners of a free quilt raffle ticket are Dennis and Mary Davis.)
This week’s “Remember When” question is about two actresses who were sisters born in Tokyo to English parents. The elder sister starred in Gone with the Wind and eight movies with Errol Flynn including the Adventures of Robin Hood; and the younger sister starred in Rebecca and Suspicion both directed by Alfred Hitchcock. Who were these two sisters, the only siblings to have won lead acting Academy Awards?  Email your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or mail it with a picture of the two sisters – before they stopped talking to each other.
Well, it’s been another week looking in the mirror and all too often asking myself “Whoa. Have I looked like that all day?” Until we meet again, don’t stop believing in yourself.

“The pride of youth is strength and beauty, the pride of old age is discretion.” Democritus

Aging Well in the Gorge January 5th 2016

Aging Well in the Gorge No Comments
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

Aging Well in the Gorge No Comments

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

Aging Well in the Gorge No Comments

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

Aging Well in the Gorge No Comments
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

Aging Well in the Gorge No Comments
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