Author Archives: mcseniorcenter

Aging Well in the Gorge September 22nd 2015

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As I get older, it’s hard not think about death and dying: friends pass away and my body, like my ’87 Ford pickup, continuosly reminds me it won’t last forever. But talking about death and dying can be a healthy experience and contrary to what many people think, it won’t kill you.
(On September 30 at 7:00 PM at the library in The Dalles you can participate in the one-time event: Talking about Dying – a ninety minute conversation with other participants, sharing stories and thoughts on the subject of death and dying. This program, facilitated by professionals, is a statewide initiative by Oregon Humanities.)
But obsessing about death is not healthy and can lead to suicidal thoughts and suicide.
Suicide is a particular concern for older adults because they may experience many of the risk factors: isolation, physical ailments, lack of purpose. But understanding suicide is for all ages. It can help you, as a parent, grandparent or friend, to know the signs and how to respond.
Some signs that a person is possibly considering suicide are a refusal to participate in activities they once enjoyed; engaging in risky activities; withdrawing from society. Or making statements such as “You won’t have to worry about me much longer.” “I can’t take this any longer.” “I’m no good to anyone anymore.”
With something so personal, how you respond depends on the relationship you have with the person. But if you feel comfortable discussing with them about how they feel, here are some suggestions – if they are not in immediate danger. (If you feel they are call 911 at once.)
Don’t try to avoid the subject or minimize it by saying, “Oh, don’t talk like that.” “Look on the bright side.” “Now don’t talk such foolishness.” “You’re doing just fine.”
But show interest and support. Be direct – talk openly and freely about suicide. Ask questions that allow them to talk openly about their feelings such as “How are you doing? Do you feel like talking about how you feel?  How long have you felt this way? Are you thinking about doing something to harm yourself?  What are you planning to do? Be willing to listen and be non-judgmental. Don’t debate or lecture on the value of life.
Suicide is too important to deal with by yourself. Involve trusted friends or family members or a professional with experience with emotional and mental health issues. For additional guidance and support call the Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to talk with a professional.
You can learn more about this important, but often ignored subject, by attending the Center’s Tuesday Lecture on July 29th at 11:00 when Susan Gabay, a local Suicide Prevention advocate, will be speaking.
It is hard to believe that October is less than two weeks away – but then it seems like the ‘60s were only yesterday. And to start the month off right, I want to invite you to enjoy some delicious Baby Back ribs; music by my favorite bluegrass band, Hardshell Harmony, plus a silent auction at the annual Baby Back Rib Dinner on Friday, October 2nd. Food will be served at the Center from 4:30 PM to 7:00 PM and the cost is still an affordable $15. Thanks to a generous sponsorship by The Springs at Mill Creek are proceeds will support the Center and Meals-on-Wheels. You can purchase tickets at the Center, Klindt’s or at the door.
For Tuesday Night Music at the Center on September 29th the newly formed local band Country Roads will be playing. The doors open at 6:00, music starts at 7:00. All ages are welcome – whether you are new, old or in-between. And donations are always appreciated.
I had many responses to what I wasn’t supposed to wear after Labor Day. The answer is “white” and in my case white buck shoes – which I can’t imagine ever wearing again – before or after Labor Day. (The winner of a quilt raffle ticket is Joan Brace.)
For this week’s “Remember When” question, who was the American author and nutritionist who became the most recognized nutritionist in the 1960s and 1970’s as an early advocate for specific nutritional views such as unprocessed food and vitamin supplementation even though she was heavily criticized by her peers? Email your answers to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or mail it with a copy of Let’s Eat Right to Keep Fit.

Well, it’s been another week, trying to keep the train running and on time. Until we meet again, stay in touch with your family and friends – and yourself. 

Aging Well in the Gorge September 15th 2015

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Besides being National Senior Center Month, did you know September is also National Fall Hat Month, National Blueberry Popsicle Month, and National Bourbon Heritage Month?  Probably not. But I hope you do know September is National Preparedness Month – helping communities prepare for natural disasters and other emergencies.
In conjunction with National Preparedness Month, the American Red Cross and NW Natural are inviting you to “Get Ready, The Dalles” an event at the Mid-Columbia Fire and Rescue on Saturday the 19th from 10:00 – 2:00. There you will learn more about how to prepare for natural disasters or other emergencies. You can pick up free safety items and the first 100 families will receive a small emergency kit! Plus free lunch will be served.
In addition to “Get Ready, the Dalles” you can find more information about preparedness at www.Ready.gov including these three important steps older Americans can take to be prepared.
First, make a kit of emergency supplies including food and water to last at least three days – plus your medications. Keep important documents such as birth certificates, Medicare cards and insurance policies in the kit or nearby.
Create a plan. Do you have a personal support network? A family communication plan? A plan to evacuate? And what about your pets?
Finally, stay informed. Do you have your mobile phone registered with Citizen’s Alert? (All landlines automatically receive emergency notices). Do you know what type of emergency to prepare for? We don’t have to worry about tornadoes or hurricanes, but we do have floods, wildfires, heat waves, snow/ice storms and, oh yeah, it also gets windy once in a while!
FEMA reported that Americans 75 and older are generally not prepared and are not confident it would make any difference. But it can. As the saying goes, “Hope for the best, but plan for the worse.”
Under the “Oops. I forgot” column, I didn’t mention last week that Mahjong is returning on Fridays from 1:00 – 3:00 PM. This is not the familiar computer game of matching tiles, but a game I found similar to Gin Rummy but using tiles instead of playing cards. This is a great chance to learn something new, and I promise it will be much easier than learning Mandarin Chinese.

Besides this column, I also write the Center’s almost weekly newsletter – which I email and post on the Center’s website (www.midcolumbiaseniorcenter.com). But often I can’t remember if I wrote something for this column or the newsletter. So have I mentioned the weekly Doodlers group offered by the Dalles Art Center? They gather every Sunday at different locations to sketch and doodle. It is very informal and open to all skill levels. It sounds like a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon. Call the Art Center for more information.

As I looked back over the past several week’s columns, it appears I forgot to mention who was playing music at the Center on Tuesday nights. I guess I miss the Brain Fitness Club more than I thought. (The club is meeting again on Mondays from 1:00 – 2:00). So for at least my own benefit, this week’s announcement for Tuesday Night music will be scrambled to give the grey cells a quick little work out.

Rof hte tnCere’s Tuesday night scuim at eth Ectenr on September 22nd, The Elderly Brothers lilw eb perofmrgni for yoru ilnsitgen dan cndaing pleasure. Ew ullp up het rgu at 7:00 so ouy nac ickk yuor shoes fof and adenc het inght ayaw. Reveoyne is invited, wtehhre yuo ehva ufro left feet or onne, nad odtnionas rea alawys appreciated.
The “Lovable Lush” was Foster Brooks who often performed with Dean Martin – who I recall had a persona of being a drinker himself. (And the winner of a quilt raffle ticket is Kathy Shebley.)

Fashion is always changing, but now a days there doesn’t seem to be any rules. Shorts are worn year round, pants range from baggy to skin tight, and what I would call pajama bottoms, people wear while shopping.

But when I was in high school, I remember my aunt telling me what I was wearing wasn’t supposed to be worn after Labor Day. For this week’s “Remember When” question, what was I wearing? Email your answers to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or mail it with a can of Kiwi Polish.

Well, it’s been another week, learning to duck when it comes back around. Until we meet again, your friends may have more, and your critics less, but everyone has a piece of the truth. 

Aging Well in the Gorge September 8th

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Anyone else tired of finding a Charter Spectrum or Dish TV advertisement in their mailbox? How long will it take before they realize I am quite happy with my TV Antenna and Netflix. But I promise when it comes to reminding you about activities and classes at the Center, I’ll won’t be so irritatingly insistent. So pay attention.

Now that the summer months have passed and the Center, as well as most of you, are settling back into a more predictable routine, it is a good time to remind you of the many activities at the Center that nurture the mind, body and soul.

For the MIND, there are several opportunities.

On Mondays from noon to 1:00 there is “Lunch with TED”, whose title may be a little too vague because several folks have asked, “Who is TED?” TED refers to the TED Talks we watch which are short fascinating video presentations (less than 20 minutes long) about “ideas worth spreading”. Bring your lunch or purchase a delicious meal from Meals-on-Wheels.
After “Lunch with TED” is the Brain Fitness Club which goes from 1:00 – 2:00. We learn how to keep our mature brains running on all cylinders while better understanding how the brain functions and playing mentally stimulating games and puzzles.
On Tuesdays are the Tuesday Lectures from 11:00 – 12:00. You will have a chance to listen to both local speakers and taped national presentations on a variety of subjects. The topic for September 15th will be the Older Americans Act which was first passed in 1964 and has significantly improved the health and well-being of older Americans.

For the BODY, there are several classes that will keep you moving.

Tuesdays and Thursdays are busy days downstairs.
Debra Lutje starts off the morning leading the Chair Yoga class from 9:30 to 10:30;
Marsha Morrison teaches the Zumbo Gold from 11:00 – 12:00;
Corliss Marsh guides the Tai Chi class from 1:00 – 1:45 (Tuesdays only);
Strong Women lead by Fern Wilcox is from 2:00 – 3:00
and for those who enjoy friendly competition, there is Table Tennis from 3:00 – 4:00.
Upstairs on Thursdays from 10:30 – 11:30, Jacquie Hashizume leads the clogging and Line Dancing class.
On Wednesdays and Fridays, Debra is back teaching the Seniorcise class from 9:15 – 1:00.
The costs range from $2.00 to $3.00 per class.

 For the SOUL, there is nothing better than getting lost in the creative process.

Thanks to a Wasco County Cultural Trust grant, the Center once again offers a full schedule of classes.
Tuesday September 22nd from 1:00 – 2:30, Donna Gooch, local cake decorator, will show you how to use some simple decorating ideas with you own set of decorating tips.
Tuesday October 13th you will learn how to make lovely little handmade Henna Books for your thoughts using watercolors, ink and acrylics.
Tuesday November 10th you will learn about some decorating ideas and gifts to make for the holiday season.
The classes are from 1:00 – 2:30, costs $3.00 and all the materials are provided. Classes are limited to eight people. Call the Center to register.

At the urging of Barb Pashek, I went out on a limb and purchased 16 tickets for “Vicki Lawrence and Mama” at the Chinook Winds on Saturday, November 21st. And since we are all old enough to know not to try to drive to the coast and back in one day, I have reserved a block of rooms at the Liberty Inn in Lincoln City. The cost for this adventure is $70 for the transportation and show; and a room for two for one night is $99 which includes free hot and cold breakfast and a walk along the beach. Sign up at the Center and we will explain how to call Liberty Inn to reserve your room.

From 1934 to 1955, you could hear broadcast adaptions of stage plays and movies, including the Wizard of Oz, on the Lux Radio Theater. And for the know-it-alls, Dorothy’s last name was Gale.

I thought of this week’s “Remember When” question after reading a Facebook post by Mike Tenney. Who was the comedian with a grey beard most famous for portraying a ”Lovable Lush” on the Dean Martin Show? Email your answers to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or mail it with a frozen package of Foster Farms chicken strips.

 Well, it’s been another week, feeling like I have four feet and they are all on the left side. Until we meet again, only in small towns do you know who’s inside by the cars parked outside.

Aging Well in the Gorge September 1st 2015

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There were many reasons I looked forward to September: the excitement of returning to school, the beginning of fall and cooler temperatures (which was a big relief if you grew up in the humid Midwest), and the start of football. But I’ve found September to be special for another reason. It’s Senior Center Month!

Nationally, Senior Centers have been operating since the 1940’s but when the Older Americans Act was amended in 1972 there was a big push to build Senior Centers in order to provide community focal points for seniors. In 1979 a national celebration of Senior Centers was established, and in 1985 the first Presidential Proclamation celebrating Senior Center Week was signed by President Ronald Reagan. Then in 2007, the week was stretched into a month to allow more time to promote the important role of Senior Centers.

The Mid-Columbia Senior Center has been operating from its current location since 1987 with its mission to promote healthy aging by providing opportunities for all generations to explore, connect and contribute. Senior Centers may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but if you are interested in exercising, dancing, creating and learning; enjoy sharing stories with friends new and old; or want to volunteer to help and support others, the Center is one place where you can find it all.

And now that it’s September, the Center is gearing up to return to its regular schedule of activities after the lazy, crazy days of summer. Next week, I will go into more detail about the Center’s fall schedule, but most of the classes and activities will return during the week of September 14th – except next week when the first of the fall series of Creative Arts classes will be held at the Center from 1:00 – 2:30 on Tuesday, September 8th. In this class you will make lovely little sachets for your drawers or closet. The class costs $3.00 which includes all supplies, and is limited to eight, so call the Center soon to sign up.

I mustn’t forget to remind everyone of the special September exhibition at The Dalles Art Center featuring the works of “The 3 Nancys”: Nancy Russell, Nancy Bishop and Nancy Rooper. The opening reception, which anyone can attend and there is no charge, will be from 5:00 – 7:00 on Thursday, September 3rd.

The Center is also where you can learn about other activities and classes in the community. One example is “Powerful Tools for Caregivers” sponsored by the Area Agency on Aging. It is an incredibly beneficial class proven to help caregivers take care of themselves while caring for a loved one or friend. The class will meet at the MCCOG Board Room located at 1113 Kelly Avenue from 9:00 – 11:30 every Wednesday for six weeks starting October 1st. Class size is limited and registration is required – call 541-298-4101 ext. 219. The suggested donation is $20 to defray the cost of the book, but is not required to attend the class.

The Center will be closed for the Labor Day weekend and there will not be Bingo this coming Thursday and Saturday Nights. But as always there will be Tuesday night music on September 8th, with Martin and Friends performing. Doors open at 6:00, music starts at 7:00, everyone is welcome, and donations are appreciated.

The car associated with James Bond, first seen in Goldfinger, was the Aston Martin; owned by Ford Motor Co. from 1994 until 2007 which is the reason the current lineup of Fords has an Aston Martin like grill design – and probably why I bought a Ford Fiesta, subconsciously thinking I was buying a $110,000 Aston Martin so I could be cool and sophisticated like James Bond. (This week’s winner is Bill Van Nice and last week’s winner, whom I forgot, was Sandy Haechrel.)

The idea for this week’s “Remember When” question comes from my old friend and compatriot John Mabrey who listens to Old Time Radio classics – which you can find on the Internet or Sirius radio. What live radio series broadcast adaptions of stage plays and movies from 1934 – 1955, including the Wizard of Oz starring Judy Garland, and was sponsored by a brand of soap? And if you think you’re so smart knowing that answer, what was Dorothy’s last name? Email your answers to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or mail it with a pair of ruby slippers.

Well, it’s been another week, learning more and knowing less. Until we meet again remember the old Chinese proverb “If you don’t know what to say, tell an old Chinese proverb”.

Aging Well in the Gorge August 25th 2015

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Many have commented about getting older. Groucho Marx once said “Getting older is no problem. You just have to live long enough.” George Burns said “You can’t help getting older, but you don’t have to get old.” And then there was Mark Twain who expressed his often repeated view on aging, “Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter.”
Many of us don’t want to think about getting older. But at some point in our lives, we realize we are no longer young men – or women. My brother-in-law is an example. He shared at the last family reunion that now he has turned 70, he can no longer deny he is getting old.
Although we may not feel old, there are unwanted signs reminding us old age has at least moved into the neighborhood. While cleaning out the receptionist desk at the Center, I found hidden in the back reaches of the bottom shelf, a poster describing some of those signs. Here are my top ten favorites describing when you know you are getting old. Maybe you can also relate to them.
1) Everything hurts and what doesn’t hurt doesn’t work. 2) You think gay means “happy, lively, and vivacious”. (Remember the Gay Blade clothing stores?) 3) You know all the answers, but no one asks you the questions. 4) Your mind makes agreements your body can’t keep. 5) Your favorite newspaper column is “20 (or 40) Years Ago Today”. 6) You feel like the morning after and you haven’t been anywhere. 7) Anything under a quarter isn’t worth bending over to pick up. 8) You stop to think and sometimes forget to start again. 9) A dripping faucet (or any running water) causes an uncontrollable bladder urge. 10) You finally get to the top of the ladder, but it’s leaning against the wrong wall.
And finally here are my own observations discovered over the past eight years. 1) When you fly, TSA no longer considers you a high security risk. 2) An elderly woman in Portland was reported hurt and she was 10 years younger that you are. 3) When someone asks for help moving furniture, they look right past you. 4) You turn to the classic rock station and it’s playing 80’s music. And finally, 5) You have no idea who Ashley Madison is and all you want is a good night’s sleep.
“Swiss cheese and Me” update: I’m making progress learning to enjoy the taste of Swiss cheese, but it has had some unexpected consequences. While I was cooking, my wife walked into the kitchen complaining about a terrible smell – of body odor. It wasn’t me or the cumin spice, but the Swiss cheese! She now stays out of the kitchen – at least when I’m cooking with swiss.
Because the Center is installing new floor covering in the lobby, the custom built receptionist’s desk, which has admirably stood the test of time, needs to be moved. But I wanted to make sure as much of the desk would be preserved in the process. So there was no better person to ask than Frank LaRoque who built and installed the desk back in 1987. A big thank-you to Frank and friends for taking the time to modify the desk so it can be still be used.
As I mentioned last week, the Center and Meals-on-Wheels will be closed on Monday the 31st; but now also on the Tuesday, September 1st to move back into the lobby the bookshelves and the desk. Although closed, Meals-on-Wheels will still deliver meals on Tuesday.
At the Center on Tuesday, September 1st, the Andre, K.C. and Tom will be performing. Doors open at 6:00, music starts at 7:00, everyone is welcome, and donations are appreciated.
The brilliant, reclusive, and eccentric millionaire who built the H-4 Hercules aircraft (“Spruce Goose”) was Howard Hughes.
This week’s “Remember When” questions was also sent in by Marcia Lacock and is for the car buffs in the audience. There have been twenty-three James Bond movies, and the automobiles in the films were often used to show thrilling car chases and exotic gadgets. What was the make of the car, first seen in Goldfinger in 1964, that is associated with James Bond? Email your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or mail it with a picture of Sean Connery as James Bond.

Well, it’s been another week, just kickin’ down the cobblestones and feeling groovy. Until we meet again, to take time to see the extraordinary in the ordinary. 

Aging Well in the Gorge August 18th 2015

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I hate Swiss cheese. Okay, maybe hate is too strong of a word. But ever since I was a child, I have really, really, really disliked Swiss cheese. Maybe it is because it tasted too bland, or smelled to “swissy”. Or maybe it is because of all the holes – it just seems like a waste of space. But I do love Mozzarella cheese. Okay, maybe love is too strong of a word. But I really, really, really do like Mozzarella Cheese. 
But over the last several years I have been on a low sodium diet requiring me to check every nutritional label for the amount of sodium. (I don’t buy canned food anymore.) And from the nutritional labels, I found cheese is high in sodium, except for, you guessed it, Swiss cheese which has 1/3 the sodium of the other cheeses. 
I know many of you are on a restricted diet because of high blood pressure, diabetes, gluten intolerance or one of many other health reasons. And although living with a restricted diet can be difficult, I’ve found it exciting: providing an opportunity to be creative in the kitchen by exploring and testing new recipes – homemade spaghetti sauce without the salt; different spices – cumin and curry; and some cheeses you never liked since you were a child. 
But can I learn to not only tolerate, but actually enjoy the taste of Swiss cheese? I know the brain is malleable and can be retrained. (I learned to enjoy unsalted peanuts. And without the salt, you can actually appreciate the real taste of peanuts.) But Swiss cheese, something I never ever liked, is the real test. It is going to be tough, but I’m giving myself three weeks. Later I’ll give you an update on whether I can retrain my brain and learn to enjoy eating what I once couldn’t stand smelling. 
If you have driven past Tenth and Cherry Heights recently, you may have noticed the Uplifting Elevator sign on the corner. Thanks to Chris Zukin and Meadow Outdoor Advertising, everyone can now see how much has been raised toward the Center’s goal of $345,000. Thanks to all of your generous support, $230,000 has been raised so far. Soon we will start the final push to raise the remaining funds. 
The Center has been wanting to install new carpeting in the lobby area. But because the elevator will require the lobby and NU-2-U Shop to be reconfigured and new flooring added, we have waited. But plans changed when the ice machine leaked and saturated the carpet in the lobby. Consequently, the Center will be installing new flooring in the lobby and reception area on Monday August 31st. (We have been assured it will fit with the rest of the flooring that will be installed when the elevator is added.) To allow for the uninterrupted installation, the Center will be closed on the 31st. We expect to reopen on Tuesday unless – well, you know how the unexpected can happen. 
At the Center on Tuesday, August 25th, the Elderly Brothers will be performing. Doors open at 6:00, music starts at 7:00, everyone is welcome, and donations are appreciated. 
Following are the answers to last week’s brain exercise that I found at www.SharpBrains.com. If you missed it, the challenge was to find a third word that is connected or associated with both of the first two words. 1) Ship and Card > Deck, 2) Tree and Car > Trunk, 3) School and Eye, > Pupil (Exam and Private is also possible) 4) Pillow and Court > Case, 6) River and Money > Bank (Flow is also possible), 7) Bed and Paper > Sheet, 8) Army and Water > Tank, 9) Tennis and Noise > Racket, 10) Egyptian and Mother > Mummy, 11) Smoker and Plumber > Pipes. 
I can still use more ideas for the weekly “Remember When” question, so don’t be shy. This week’s question came from an email submitted by Marcia Lacock. What brilliant, talented, reclusive, and very eccentric millionaire and philanthropist is associated with Jane Russell, the H-1 Racer and H-4 “Hercules”, RKO Pictures, TWA, and an obsessive-compulsive disorder? Email your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or mail a picture of his last wife – actress Jean Peters. 
Well, it’s been another week, looking for loose change wherever I can find it. Until we meet again, you aren’t really old until your children start receiving Social Security. “
“A society grows great when old men plant trees whose shade they know they shall never sit in.” Greek Proverb

Aging Well in the Gorge August 11th 2015

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It is frustrating when you can’t think of that word that’s on the tip of your tongue. But don’t fret. According to an article written for SharpBrains.com by Dr. Pascale Michelon, who holds a doctorate in cognitive psychiatry, that word is probably hidden somewhere in your brain’s temporal lobes where words are stored.
The temporal lobes are one of the four main lobes or regions of the cerebral cortex. (Okay, what is the cerebral cortex you may ask? It is the outer layer of the brain or what Agatha Christie’s fictional character, Hercule Poirot, calls the “little gray cells”.) I could tell you more about what is in the temporal lobes, but more useful is that the temporal lobes play an important role in auditory perception, speech, emotional response, visual perception and what at least concerns me the most – memory. In other words, important stuff.
The words stored in your temporal lobes seem to be, contrary to all the papers and files randomly stacked in my office, organized in a functional system. Research has also shown that words which are often heard together, such as salt and pepper, or words that share some meaning, such as nurse and doctor, are connected or associated in the brain. Once you hear one, the other is activated.
Here is a brain exercise, from the SharpBrains.com website, to stimulate the connections or associations between words in your temporal lobe.
Below you will find eleven pair of words. The challenge is to find a third word that is connected or associated with both of these two words. For example, what word is connected or associated with both PIANO and LOCK? I’ll give you one minute to think of the word.
Okay, times up.
The answer is KEY. There are KEYS on a piano and you use a KEY to lock doors. Got it?
Now are you ready to get serious and stimulate the connections in your temporal lobe? The answers will be found in next week’s column. Or if you can’t wait that long, they will be posted on the Center’s website at www.midcolumbiaseniorcenter/com. Good luck.
1) Ship and Card, 2) Tree and Car, 3) School and Eye, 4) Pillow and Court, 6) River and Money, 7) Bed and Paper, 8) Army and Water, 9) Tennis and Noise, 10) Egyptian and Mother, 11) Smoker and Plumber.
It is Wasco County Fair week, so don’t forget Free Family Day at the Wasco County Fair on Thursday thanks to Mel’s Sanitation. And what has become an annual tradition, the free “Senior Picnic in the Park” starts at 11:30 and is sponsored by Flagstone Senior Living, Mid-Columbia Council of Governments and Canyon Rim Manor.
Also LINK, north Wasco County’s public transportation provider, is once again offering free rides to the Wasco County Fair on Thursday. Call the Center for the few seats still available. The bus leaves the Center at 10:00 and will leave the fair around 1:00 PM.
At the Center on Tuesday, August 18th, the Simcoe Boys will be performing. Doors open at 6:00, music starts at 7:00, everyone is welcome, and donations are appreciated.
SONY (The name was chosen for its simple pronunciation and that it would be the same in any language.), was the first company to dominate the transistor radio market in America.
But now I need some help – and I’m serious. Each week I ask a “Remember When” question in order to bring back some hopefully pleasant memories lost in the cobwebs of your temporal lobes. (Remember, the grey matter of your brain.) But after six plus years, I’m running out of ideas. I’ve asked about music, television shows and events I remember: Hula Hoops and Heartbreak Hotel, Coonskin Caps and Chubby Checker. But there is so much more – like Bag Balm which I never heard of but everyone seems to have. So as the Beatles once sang, “Help, I need somebody”. And whether you remember a song, movie, special event, television show or commercial product that may have been forgotten, send it to me. If I use your question, you will receive a free Saturday breakfast. Email your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, or call and leave a message at 541-296-4788.
Well, it’s been another week, walking in the sunshine with a goofy smile. Until we meet again, as I was reminded last week, just because you’re wandering, it doesn’t mean you’re lost.
 “The mark of a successful man is one that has spent an entire day on the bank of a river without feeling guilty about it.” Author Unknown

Aging Well in the Gorge August 4th 2015

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We are social beings and for most of us, we need to interact with others: sharing our everyday experiences; jokes we’ve heard – often again and again; our dreams and hopes; our mental lapses. (That no one noticed my zipper was unzipped. Thank goodness I don’t tuck in my shirt.) And the good news: stories about the grandkids – they still have possibilities; trips abroad and family reunions.

To connect with others is in our nature. But as we get older our social connections are reduced: we may no longer be working; friends have died or moved away, it’s easier to stay home instead of going out. (I need to be in bed by 9:00!) and sadly, we may have lost our life long partner with whom we shared everything.

I’ve written about the value of social connections. But often overlooked is the importance of listening. If someone is going to share their stories, there needs to be someone there to receive them. And yes, while listening you may sometimes hear about the latest doctor’s visit, or which medications are working – or not, and the different aches and pains. I’m often sharing stories about my latest visit to my doctor, or my dermatologist, or my cardiologist, or my ENT specialist. (Hmm. Maybe I need to find something else to talk about.) But we are all trying to cope with this condition called AGE, and someone needs to be there to listen.

Although listening is simple, it’s not always easy. As Margaret Wheatley points put, “Listening is such a simple act. It requires us to be present, and that takes practice, but we don’t have to do anything else. We don’t have to advise, or coach, or sound wise. We just have to be willing to sit there and listen”. Listening is something we should all do for each other. And if we really do listen, we will learn so much more.
When you walk into the Center’s lobby, you’ll see two beautiful quilts hanging on the walls. They are made by the Senior Center Quilters who meet every Monday from 10:00 – 3:00 downstairs – and they are always looking for more quilters to join them. At the Fort Dalles Cowboy Breakfast, the Center raffled off the Basket Quilt – won by Sherry Dufault. But a new star patterned quilt that was hand pieced and hand quilted is now hanging in the lobby. You can imagine how many hours were put into making it. Quilt raffle tickets are now available at the Center and the drawing will be held in December during the Center’s annual Holiday Breakfast.

Next is one of those ideas I wish I had thought of. The Dalles Art Center is sponsoring a weekly get together to sketch and doodle – which I know you can do. You probably did it during history class in high school. It is very informal and open to everyone from beginners to advance artists. There is no instructor and everyone learns from each other. All you need is paper and pen. Each week they meet at a different location. To find out where they will be meeting, call the Art Center at 541-296-4759.

And sticking with The Dalles Art Center, the Center, along with Tobin Swick/Swick Family Music, will be sponsoring the Art Center’s Open Reception on Thursday August 6th from 5:00 – 7:00 PM.

This month’s art show is “Gorge Artists Create” – the Art Center’s annual juried exhibit held every summer. At the Center on Tuesday, August 11th, Martin and Friends will be performing. Doors open at 6:00, music starts at 7:00, everyone is welcome, and donations are appreciated.

On the Road, considered the defining work of the postwar Beat generation, was written by Jack Kerouac based on his notes from his travels across America in the late 1940’s. (And the winner of three quilt raffle tickets is Bill Van Nice.)

By 1954 the transistor replaced vacuum tubes making portable radios lighter and allowing everyone to listen to their favorite radio station anywhere. Consequently, transistor radios became the most popular electronic communication device in history. For this week’s “Remember When” question what little known company from overseas was the first to dominate the transistor radio market in America? Email your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788 or mail it with an original TR-55 transistor radio.

Well, it’s been another week, trying to keep the cool winds blowing. Until we meet again, you know you are old when the “oldies” stations start playing hits from the 1980’s.

“The word LISTEN contains the same letters as SILENT.” Alfred Bendel

Aging Well in the Gorge July 28th 2015

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Once in a while it is nice to take a few days off. This last week, my wife and I spent four days in Portland with my sister and her husband, enjoying the sights of the big city that is within 90 miles, but I have never previously explored. They were doing their west coast tour starting in San Diego, visiting relatives and friends along the way. And since they are both retired, they have more time and fewer responsibilities, so they can travel more – visiting different sites and checking off to-dos on their bucket list.

You probably know the term “bucket list” from the movie of the same name starring Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman about two terminally ill men taking a road trip to fulfill their wish list before they “kick the bucket”. And many of you may have a bucket list, but if you don’t or you want to update your’s, here are several suggestions by Al Bernstein, a noted psychologist who has written about “bucket lists”.

1) Your bucket list can be more than visiting your ancestral homeland. Give yourself time to reflect on your interests first, before choosing your destinations.
2) Make a list for just one year – you can also keep a “sometime” list to review later.
3) Keep your list short and mix large and small goals. Or identify just one goal. When it is accomplished, choose another.
4) And stay real. Keep your list financially and physically within reach. You may have a goal of a two week tour of the historic sites of Scotland (where, I must modestly add, the modern world was invented) but unless you rob a bank, you may not be able to afford it.

 Making a list gives you a chance to reflect on your dreams and goals – what is important to you, before you “kick the bucket”. But don’t spend all your time and energy creating your list. As Al Bernstein points out, “It’s not the listing, it’s the doing that’s important.”

The Center’s cozy NU-2-U Shop offers some of the best used clothing in the area and at the lowest prices. Rhonda Townsend sorts through the donated clothes every Monday so she can restock the racks with only the best clothes – in addition to the always popular small blankets she makes out of scrap material. The NU-2-U Shop is open from 10:00 – 1:30 Monday through Friday, and later upon request.

The Center has only two trips left this summer. The trip to Portland for lunch on the Portland Spirit is full – although we are still taking names for the waiting list. But there are still two seats left for the matinee performance of Wicked on Thursday, August 6th for $75 a piece Call or stop by the Center if you are interested.

Once again, thanks to Flagstone Senior Living for sponsoring the Cowboy Breakfast that served over a hundred adults and children. And to The Springs at Mill Creek for catering the delicious dinner served after the Center’s Annual Membership Meeting.

At the Center on Tuesday, August 4th, Andre, KC and Tom will be performing. Doors open at 6:00, music starts at 7:00, everyone is welcome, and donations are appreciated.

The name of the Pulitzer prize winning humorist who poked fun at the shortcomings of celebrities and politicians and was best known for his long-running column in The Washington Post was Art Buchwald. (And the winner of three quilt raffle tickets is Neal Cassady.)

This week’s “Remember When” question is from a post by Amanda Cecil on the Barnes and Noble’s Nook Blog suggesting five books to put on your “bucket list”. One of the books is based on this author’s notes as he traveled across America with his friends in the late 1940’s. What was the name of the author and the book he wrote – considered the defining work of the postwar Beat generation?

Email your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788 or mail it with the book’s manuscript typed on a continuous, one hundred and twenty-foot scroll of tracing paper sheets.

Well, it’s been another week, trying not to strike out in the bottom of the ninth. Until we meet again, take time to celebrate each day of these bonus years.

“Whether it’s the best of times or the worst of times, it’s the only time we’ve got.” Art Buchwald

Aging Well in the Gorge July 7th 2015

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Anyone else wish these 100 degree days would pack their bags and head south? With the heat I find myself more irritable and lethargic and I just want to stay some place cool and read a book. But what should I expect – it is The Dalles. And to stay safe during these hot spells, I know I need to drink more liquids while avoiding caffeine and alcohol; I need to stay cool, a wet cold towel on the back of my neck works well for me; and I need to stay informed by making sure I know who to call in case the air conditioner fails.
But thinking there must be some good reasons why the heat is better than those cold winter days, I did a little research and found these ten reasons why hot weather is better than cold. So now when I start whining about the heat, I can count its benefits knowing that in less than six months, winter will arrive and I can start wishing for the dog days of summer.
10.) Heat does not cause traffic jams triggered by jackknifed semis on snow covered highways. 9.) Heat is dangerous, but nearly twice as many people die from exposure to cold weather than those who succumb to hot weather. 8.) You can’t play golf in the snow – at least anyone who is sane doesn’t.
7.) Humidity does not accumulate by the inch and require shoveling. 6.) It costs more to buy clothes to stay warm, while in the heat you can take your clothes off – to a point. 5.) Even on the hottest days of summer, it will cool off at night. But on the coldest days of winter, the nights just get colder. 4.) Cold toilet seats. 3.) It takes longer to warm up that to cool off. 2.) If your AC breaks in the summer your pipes won’t burst. 1.) And above all, when you’re too cold, you can’t truly enjoy ice cream.
Fort Dalles Days, running from July 10th through July 19th is just around the bend. There will be plenty of action including the “Rough and Wild” Rodeo; open tours of the historic buildings; and on Saturday July 18th the Downtown Summer Fest and parade. Also on the 18th is the Cowboy Breakfast at the Center from 7:30 – 9:30. This is your chance before the parade to enjoy a hearty breakfast of pancakes, scrambled eggs, bacon or sausage, fruit and a beverage – all for $5.00 and $3.00 for children 12 and under. And during breakfast The Dalles’ own Carson Bailey, this year’s Fort Dalles Rodeo Queen, will stop by to say hi.
This month we are mixing up the order for the Tuesday Night Music line up. The Simcoe Boys will be playing on July 14th and Martin and Friends will be playing on the 21st.  No matter the temperature outside, it is always cool inside the Center so you can dance the night away without burning up the dance floor. We appreciate all the local bands who play at the Center and the folks who donate their time and money to make it all possible. Everyone is welcome no matter their age – and there is always room on the dance floor for newcomers. The doors open at 6:00, the music starts at 7:00 and you can be home before the sun goes down.
The name of the rock band with folk roots that sang the 1965 summer hit, “Summer in the City”, was the Lovin’ Spoonful. But besides the songs that remind us of summer’s pasts, the summer is also the time for the release of many of Hollywood’s action movies. This American thriller, released in 1975 two years before Star Wars, was the first of the modern summer blockbuster action films. For this week’s “Remember When” question, and a chance to win a free Cowboy Breakfast, what was the name of the film directed by Steven Spielberg; with an unforgettable soundtrack written by John Williams; and based on Peter Benchley’s 1974 novel of the same name? (And after this seeing this movie, I didn’t want to get near the water.) Email your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788 or mail it with a round trip ticket to Martha’s Vineyard. 
Well, it’s been another week, splishing and splashing. Until we meet again, as I was told recently by a friend “Do not ascribe to malice what can be explained by incompetence.”

“What dreadful hot weather we have! It keeps me in a continual state of inelegance.” Jane Austen