Author Archives: mcseniorcenter

Aging Well February 10th 2015

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Do you still receive unsolicited calls from telemarketers trying to sell you something you don’t want or need: security systems, satellite television or a new remedy for your diabetes? They are often scams but can also be calls from telemarketers representing Fortune 500 companies. But there are steps you can take to limit them.

First, register with the National Do Not Call Registry by calling toll-free 1-888-382-1222 from the phone number you wish to register, or go online at donocall.gov. (For online registration you will need an email address.) You may want to register your cell phone, but is shouldn’t be necessary because it is illegal in most cases for telemarketers to call a cell phone.
Once you have registered your phone number, it is permanent – unless you have lost your mind and want to take your name off the registry. Or if you forgot to pay your last two phone bills and were disconnected, in which case you will need to register again.
Unfortunately, the law does not prohibit calls from charities, political organizations, telephone surveyors and companies with which you’ve done business in the last 18 months. But for those telemarketers not covered by the Do Not Call regulations, you can ask them to put you on their own internal Do Not Call list, and by law they have to honor your request. Record the date you make the request so if there are future violations, you’ll be able to file an FTC complaint.
Telemarketers have up to 31 days to update their lists, so it could take that long for calls to cease. After that, you can file a complaint about unwanted calls at the Do Not Call website or phone number.
Through enforcement actions, the Federal Trade Commission is working to reduce the number of illegal telemarketing calls and holding telemarketers and businesses accountable. Just recently, a federal judge in Illinois ruled that the satellite TV company Dish Network is liable for making 57,606,609 illegal telemarketing calls.
It was nice to see everyone at the Civic for GoRed for Women’s Heart Health. And if the event nudged you towards being more active, the Center offers several affordable movement and exercise classes: from the gentle and contemplative Tai Chi to the high energy Zumba Gold with Seniorcise, yoga and Strong Women in-between. You can drop in any class at any time to see if the class works for you. But you will have to wait until March 2nd for Corliss Marsh’s Tai Chi class to return.
For all of you who did not make it to Saturday Night Bingo you missed a delicious meal prepared by Cherry Heights Living – the Center’s neighbors to the north. Thanks to managers Blll and Nelda, and cooks Barry and Sandy for helping make a wonderful evening of fun and good food.
AARP Tax Aide, a free service for low and moderate income tax payers, is off to a fast start with a packed downstairs at the Center on Friday and Saturday. The hours for the program are from 2:00 – 6:00 on Fridays and 9:00 – 1:00 on Saturdays through April 11th. And a reminder, it is first come first serve. If you are not in a rush you might want to wait until March when the action slows down and you won’t have to wait as long.  
For the Tuesday Night Music and Dance at the Center on February 10th, the crowd pleasing Andre, K.C. and Tom will be performing. Doors open at 6:00, music starts at 7:00, all ages are welcome and donations are always appreciated.
The name of the boy with the pointed cowlick in the “Our Gang” and “Little Rascals” comedies was Alfalfa. (And the winner of a free Cherry Festival Breakfast is Kim Birge.)
The television commercials for this product were some of most popular in the 60’s and 70’s. For this week’s “Remember When” question, what was name of the medication that was advertised on television using the 1966 hit song “No Matter What Shape Your Stomach’s In”? E-mail your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788 or drop it off with “a spicy meat ball-a”.
Well, it’s been another week, wondering what the winter would have been like if all the rain had been snow. Until we meet again, it’s your attitude not your age that counts.

“Someday, everything will make perfect sense. So for now, laugh at the confusion, smile through the tears, be strong and keep reminding yourself that everything happens for a reason.” ― John Mayer

Aging Well February 3rd 2015

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I have always forgotten things. (Fred MacMurray in the Absent Minded Professor was one of my role models.) And I can still remember the sinking feeling when I had forgotten my appointment for a haircut or to pick up the kids after school. I would kick myself in the pants, but I never thought more about it. But now when I forget something, I start imagining every set of lost keys or forgotten name is one more sign that my memory is riding that downhill slide to total oblivion. I don’t know if you have the same experience, but I find it a little bit scary. And it doesn’t’ help that my mother died from Alzheimer’s. (But there is one good sign. I do remember how to spell Alzheimer’s!)

Normal forgetfulness such as absentmindedness, forgetting names or those tip-of-the-tongue moments are common at any age and are not serious memory problems. A more serious concern is dementia; a set of symptoms including impairment in memory, reasoning, judgment, language and other thinking skills.

According to the Mayo Clinic website, some early signs of dementia may include: asking the same questions repeatedly, forgetting common words when speaking, mixing words up – saying “bed” instead of “table”, taking longer to complete familiar tasks, misplacing items in inappropriate places – putting a wallet in a kitchen drawer, getting lost while walking or driving around a familiar neighborhood, or undergoing sudden changes in mood or behavior for no apparent reason.

If you find this is happening to you or if you know someone who is exhibiting these signs, a doctor should be consulted. There are many other causes for memory lapses that can be treated and they should be ruled out first: severe stress, depression, a vitamin B12 deficiency, insufficient sleep, some prescription drugs and infections.

In the meantime, for us who experience normal forgetfulness, there are ways to help keep our minds sharp. Stay engaged with friends and family, volunteer, reduce your stress, keep your mind active, get lots of rest, exercise and eat well.

You can learn more about dementia and memory loss at the Center’s next 11:00 Tuesday lecture on February 10th. Colleen Ballinger, from Hospice of the Gorge, will discuss in more detail the differences between normal forgetfulness and dementia, what some of the treatable causes of memory loss are, and how caregivers can cope.

The Planetree Resource Center always offers an excellent series of free spring lectures on health related topics that are open to the public. This year there are three that may be of particular interest to older adults: “Living with Chronic Pain and the Tools for Management” on February 17th, “This Aging Body” on March 3rd, and “Could You Repeat That? Hearing Loss and Prevention” on March 10th. The lectures are held at Water’s Edge from 7pm to 8:30pm. For more information or to register call 541-296-8444 or visit the MCMC website.

Donzella Schlager and I will be attending the GoRed for Women’s Heart Health event at the Civic this Friday from 11:00 – 2:00 to share information about the activities at the Center. So after your massage and bowl of soup, stop by and say hello.

On Saturday March 14th the Center will be taking a bus load of twenty folks to Portland to see the matinee performance of “Guys and Dolls”. Tickets are $75 including transportation, and can be purchase at the Center. 
For the Tuesday Night Music and Dance at the Center on February 10th, Martin and Friends will be performing. Doors open at 6:00 and the music starts at 7:00. All ages are welcome and donations are always appreciated.
The name of the translucent pink styling gel with a unique smell and gelatinous consistency was Dippity-Do.  (And the winner of a free Cherry Festival Breakfast is Carol Parker.)
From 1922 to 1944, producer Hal Roach created a series of 221 short comedy films about a group of poor neighborhood children called “Our Gang” which he later repackage in the 1950’s as “The Little Rascals”. For this week’s “Remember When” question, what was the name of the boy in the series known for his trademark pointed cowlick? E-mail your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788 or drop it off with a picture of Darla – his romantic interest.
Well, it’s been another week, trying figure out what I’ll do when I grow up. Until we meet again, as John Barrymore once said, “Happiness often sneaks in through a door you didn’t know you left open.”

“God gave us memory so that we might have roses in December.” James M. Barrie

Aging Well January 27th 2015

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When you think of older adults and seniors what picture comes to mind? A single woman living on Social Security? A retired couple traveling to Arizona for the winters? A wife taking care of her invalid husband? Or maybe someone more glamorous. Sophia Loren, Morgan Freeman or Betty White?
Adults sixty and older are a diverse lot and hard to categorize. There are the usual attempts such as by age: the G.I Generation, born from around 1901 through 1924; the Silent Generation born from the mid-1920s to the early 1940s; and the Baby Boomers, born from 1943 up to the early 1960s; or by income level: affluent, middle income and those living only on Social Security.
But societal conditions have changed. Life expectancy has increased more than 30 years since 1900, working conditions have improved with higher wages and better pensions, and medical advancements have maintained the health of older adults – all providing more opportunities for older adults to blossom in their later years.
Today businesses are beginning to see the value of marketing to older adults, and are recognizing the diversity by identifying different subgroups. Some of these identified subgroups, based on values, consumer behaviors, health status and attitudes, are the Prosperous Empty Nesters, The Elders, Retirement Communities, Senior Sun Seekers, the Social Security Set, and Old Geezers. (Actually I made up that last group, and I know who you are!)
This diversity creates a challenge for any organization or business wanting to reach and engage the older adult population. An example of an attempt to address this challenge is the weekly newspaper I picked up in Salem, whose publisher may be familiar to many folks around here: David Thouvenal, once the publisher of the upstart “Weekly Reminder”. He now publishes the “Northwest Boomer and Senior News” which acknowledges the diversity of older adults by including two subgroups of older adults in the name of the newspaper.
It is also a challenge the Center is working to meet – providing opportunities and supports for the wide range of interest and needs of such a diverse older population – from the Prosperous Empty Nesters to the Old Geezers.
A quick heads-up so you can put it on your calendar. The annual Original Courthouse Regional History Forum Series for 2015, begins on February 7th at 1:30 p.m. in the upstairs courtroom of the 1859 courthouse at 410 West 2nd Place, This year’s forums will cover Japanese Families in the Mosier Area Prior to 1942 on February 7; General George Wright, Defender of the Civil War Pacific Coast on February 14; Time and Change on Mount Adams on February 21; and Delivering the Mail:  Wasco County Post Offices on February 28. .
For the 11:00 Tuesday Lecture on February 3rd, I will be discussing a fascinating topic that I haven’t determined yet. Come and be surprised.
And have I mentioned that on Saturday February 7th, Saturday Night Bingo will return to its regular starting time of 6:00 PM with a free dinner graciously prepared by Cherry Heights Living and served at 5:00 PM for the first 65 bingo players? I did?  Oh, never mind.
For the Tuesday Night Music and Dance at the Center on February 3rd, the crowd pleasing Andre, K.C. and Tom will be performing. Doors open at 6:00 and the music starts at 7:00. All ages are welcome and donations are always appreciated.
The fictional character that was a reformed jewel thief and safe cracker; and appeared in short stories, B-movies, and on radio and television was Boston Blackie ; (And the winner of a free Cherry Festival Breakfast is Renee Briggs who mentioned that you can still watch old Boston Blackiemovies on the local getTV station.)
Diana Weston emailed me a collection of pictures of consumer items most anyone under 50 would not recognize: from a McGuffey’s Spelling Book to the inserts made for 45 records.  One of those pictures gave me the idea for this week’s “Remember When” question.
What was the name of translucent pink styling gel with a unique smell and gelatinous consistency that was advertised on television in the 1960s?  E-mail your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788 or drop it off with a bag of Wil-Hold Large Brush Plastic Rollers.
Well, it’s been another week, trying to remember what the score is. Until we meet again, attitude can make the difference between a good day and a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day.

“There are exactly as many special occasions in life as we choose to celebrate.” ~Robert Brault

Aging Well January 20th 2015

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When I start writing this column, I usually have a particular topic in mind, in this case the diversity among older adults. But sometimes my thoughts just don’t come together – they need more time to incubate. So until they hatch (hopefully by next week), I have time to share several events taking place at the Center: cards, tax help, communicating with your doctor and a FREE dinner.
As you know the Center offers many activities. And even though I would like to say every activity is full with a waiting list, I can’t. Which is fortunate, because there is still room for you. For example, if you like to play cards, the Center offers three different games. There is pinochle every Thursday from 1:00 – 3:00 and every Friday evening from 6:00 – 8:30. On the third Tuesday of every month from 1:00- 3:00, there is Bunco – a fun, and easy-to-learn dice game of chance. And then on Friday afternoons from 1:00 – 3:00, you can learn to play Mahjong, a game which originated in China that is played with tiles instead of cards and reminds me of rummy. (But not to be confused with the Mahjong computer game that matches tiles.) Come join the fun. Your place at the table is waiting for you.
Now that you are starting to receive your tax information in the mail, you may be wondering when the AARP Tax Aide program begins. This year it will start on Friday, February 6th, and will be offered at the Center every Friday from 2:00 – 6:00 and every Saturday from 9:00 – 1:00 until April 11th. Make sure you bring the necessary documentation including: government issued identification, last year’s tax return; Social Security card; records of any income; and records of your eligible expenses if you are going to itemize your deductions. In February it is pretty busy, but it usually slows down in March. The Tax Aide Program is available to all low to moderate income taxpayers and particularly those over 60 and is sponsored by the Mid-Columbia Community Action Program.
The 11:00 Tuesday Lecture on January 27th will follow up on last week’s column about the importance of communicating with your health care provider. Linda Stahl from the Planetree Health Resource Center will discuss what you can do to ensure clear and accurate communication between you and your doctor so you receive the best healthcare possible. Linda will also discuss this year’s Go Red for Women’s Heart Health Expo on Friday, February 6th from 11:00 to 2:00 at the Civic Auditorium. (And if you register on line for the Heart Expo at the MCMC website, you can download a free copy of the Heart Healthy Recipe eBook.)
Because of the shorter days and uncertain weather during December and January, Saturday Night Bingo has been starting at 4:00 PM – two hours earlier than normal. But now that the darkest days of December and January have almost past, and there is a reduced chance of winter storms  (I hope!), on February 7th Saturday Night Bingo will return to its regular starting time of 6:00 PM. And that night at 5:00, you can enjoy a FREE dinner catered by our neighbors Cherry Heights Living – to give you a taste of what it would be like to live where someone else will do the cooking for you.
For the Tuesday Night Music and Dance at the Center on January 27th, the Highline Express will be performing. Doors open at 6:00 and the music starts at 7:00. All ages are welcome and donations are always appreciated
Sergeant Preston of the Yukon, with his faithful dog Yukon King, is the answer to last week’s “Remember When” question. (The winner of a free Cherry Festival Breakfast is Don McAllister.)
I’m thinking this week’s “Remember When” question is going to be a tough one – it’s not one I would have remembered. What is the name of the fictional character that appeared in short stories, silent films, on radio, in 1940’s B-movies, and on television in the 50’s; and was a former jewel thief and safe cracker who was suspected whenever a daring crime was committed, but always managed to clear himself with the help of his sidekick Runt? Did you get all that? E-mail your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788 or drop it off with a Boston Crème pie.
Well, it’s been another week, enjoying the sun – when I can find it. Until we meet again, don’t take your foot off the pedal or your eye off the road.

“I’ve reached the age where my train of thought often leaves the station without me.” Anonymous

Aging Well January 13th 2015

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Do you remember when a visit to the doctor was for an easily diagnosed and treated ailment: measles, ear aches, sore throats; not for complex health issues such as broken hips, knee replacements, urinary infections, feinting spells or heart problems? Life is so much more exciting these days! 
But as we make our regular visits to our health care providers, it is important to communicate effectively with them. Research shows the better you communicate with your doctor, the better the health outcomes – which is your health. A critical factor in good communication is asking questions. A simple question can help you feel better, let you take better care of yourself, or even save your life. But there are many reasons you may not feel comfortable asking questions of your doctor: you don’t want to waste their time, they know more than you do, or you don’t want to give the impression you are second guessing them. 
 But don’t be afraid to ask questions. Your health care provider actually wants you to. It is in their best interest as well as yours that you understand what you can do to take ownership of your own health. The first step is to prepare a list of questions and identify the three most important ones, so you won’t forget what you really want to ask. 
The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality’s website (www,ahrq.gov/) has a section on patient involvement that provides tips and tools to help improve communication with your health care provider including questions you may want to ask before, during and after your appointment. The following questions are suggested to get you started. 
 What is the test for? How many times have you done this procedure? When will I get the results? Why do I need this treatment? Are there any alternatives? What are the possible complications? Which hospital is best for my needs? How do you spell the name of that drug? Are there any side effects? Will this medicine interact with medicines that I’m already taking? 
 And after you ask the questions make sure understand the answers. Sometimes it is difficult to explain complex medical conditions in layman’s terms, but don’t just nod your head and give that look of understanding, when you really don’t have a clue. (That’s why I bring along my wife. She’ll ask the questions if I don’t.) 
 Be proactive and take responsibility for your own health. Maintaining your health is a partnership between you and your doctor. And it is critical to ask questions, because “Questions are the Answers” to your good health. 
 We will miss Dennis Davis, but the AARP Smart Driver class will continue with Dick Frost taking Dennis’ place teaching the class. And when you complete the class, you can still receive an auto insurance discount. The cost is $20 and $15 for AARP members, and the next class is on January 19th and 20th from 8:45 until noon each day. There is still room and you can sign up by calling the Center at 541-296-4788.
 As several folks figured out, last week’s two missing consonants were t and l. This week, I’m giving you a break, but I won’t guarantee there aren’t any missing letters. But if there are, they are not intended – just one of my mistakes I didn’t catch. 
 For the Tuesday Night Music and Dance at the Center on January 20th, the popular Simcoe Boys will be playing. Doors open at 6:00 and the music starts at 7:00. All ages are welcome – because the music is too good to keep anyone away. And donations are always appreciated.  
Clint Eastwood was the actor who played Rowdy Yates in the TV western series Rawhide before finding international fame in Italy where he starred as the “Man with No Name” in three “spaghetti” westerns from 1964 through 1966 (And the winner of a Saturday breakfast in April is Sam Bilyue.)
 This week’s “Remember When” question is about a 1950’s television series. What was the name of the outdoor action television show that was broadcast on television from 1955 through 1958 but first aired on radio in 1938 as The Challenge of the Yukon? E-mail your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788 or drop it off with an autographed picture of “Yukon King”. 
 Well, it’s been another week, watching the days get longer and the nights get shorter. Until we meet again, don’t let your fears rule your day – or go bump in the night 
 “Every day begins with an act of courage and hope: getting out of bed.” Mason Cooley

Aging Well January 6th 2015

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Last week I shared twenty tips I’ve learned over the last eight years about aging well. I hope you found them useful, but I imagine some of you might have thought they were just a bunch of hooey. (Does anyone use the word “hooey” anymore besides myself and Dick Cheney?)
So this week I am going to a more respected source, the International Council on Active Aging, and summarize for you their 10 research based tips on how to lead healthier lives in 2015. (You will find these tips apply to all ages including your adult children – if they would only listen.)
1. Think positive. Negative thoughts can become self-fulfilling. And never let your age be an excuse.
2. Turn your spark into a flame. Find your passion and nurture it.  
3. Keep your motor running. Don’t underestimate the ability to recharge through lifestyle changes and “attitude” adjustments. 
4. Eat a balanced diet. Use a common-sense approach – lots of fruits and vegetables, go easy on the sugar and salt.
5. Regular Exercise. If you’re already exercising regularly, congratulations. If you are starting, set realistic goals. Remember you are exercising the body you have now, not the one you had fifty years ago – or even 10 years ago. 
6. Connect with people. Keep socially active. Volunteering and other kinds of civic involvement can contribute to better health.
7. Don’t STAY down. Feeling down at times is normal but it can sap your energy and interest. If you’re feeling out of sorts for two weeks or more, talk with your doctor.
8. Keep learning. You may not be Grandma Moses but you can start learning new subjects or pick up a new skill at any age. So why not start today?
9. INVEST in you. It may take energy and effort, but the results will be worth it.
10. Have fun! Fill your life with joy and laughter. Have a good time and make 2015 the best year ever to be alive.
Now will you consider those suggestions? And even though we may try our best to stay healthy, we don’t live in Shangri-La. I was reminded of that recently when I received an early birthday card from my friends in the local chapter of the Oregon Retired Educators Association that asked. “What happens when people eat right, exercise and really take care of themselves? They get old anyway!” Ah, so true. But we can still wring every last drop of excitement, adventure and laughter out of these remaining years, because life is worth living.
The Creative Arts Program at the Center has been a tremendous success thanks to the efforts of Debra Jones and the support from local artists and businesses that have provided professional instruction as well as class supplies. The classes have offered an opportunity for older adults to explore a variety of artistic mediums from water colors and glass design to card making and flower arranging. Now, thanks to a Wasco County Cultural Trust Grant, the classes will continue this spring. Debra Jones is already planning for the classes and once they are scheduled, I will make sure you know.
Last week the three missing consonants were f, h and s. How about one more time for the “Gipper”, but this week only two consonants are missing.
For uesday Nigh Music a he Cener on January 13h, Marin and Friends wi be performing. Music sars at 7:00 bu you can arrive as eary as 6:00 when he coffee wi be ready for you. Anyone can aend and your donaions wi keep the music fowing.
The name of the critically acclaimed Cold War spy novel, which was at the top of the New York Times’ best seller list for 34 weeks in 1964 was The Spy Who Came in from the Coldwritten by British author John le Carré. (And the winner of a Saturday breakfast in April is Alex Currie.) 
Now time for this week’s “Remember When” question. What is the name of the actor who starred in a popular TV western series before finding international fame in Italy where he starred in three “spaghetti” westerns from 1964 through 1966? E-mail your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788 or drop it off with a picture of the “Man with No Name”.
Well, it’s been another week, trying to tie up some loose ends without tripping over the string. Until we meet again, if you are going to be a fool, be a big fool – at least you’ll be entertaining.

“I think in terms of the day’s resolutions, not the years’.” Henry Moore

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This is the seventh year I have had the opportunity to wish all of you a Happy New Year. When I started writing this column, I had no idea what the next eight years would bring, but over those years attending state and national conferences, listening to the Center’s Tuesday lectures, preparing for this column, and particularly listening to the amazing “elders” at the Center, I have learned more than I ever could have imagined. Yet, I still feel like a rookie, knowing there is much more to learn about how to live gracefully with courage, compassion and understanding.

But I am often reminded that this journey is not about getting older or even about living longer. It is about taking care of ourselves so we can live the rest of our lives to their fullest. To welcome in the new year, here are a few insights I have discovered over the last eight years that guide me in my continuing life’s journey, so I can try to fulfill the familiar adage, “It is not the years in your life that count, but the life in your years.”
1. What is good for your heart is good for your brain.
2. Learn something new without worrying how good you’ll be.
3. First steps to improve your memory: focus and pay attention.
4. Most things don’t really matter, but a few really do.
5. The goal is not to get faster, but to keep from slowing down.
6. Getting older beats the alternative, but it is hard work.
 7. Accept what you can’t control – and then adapt.
8. Live in the now.
9. Know what you want and let others know – particularly your adult children.
10. Dream as if you will live forever and live as if you will die tomorrow.
11. Age is in your attitude.
12. Avoid the five S’s: Sugar, Salt, Seconds, Soda and Shortening.
13. Add color to your meals i.e. eat vegetables!
14. Isolation kills. Stay connected.
15. Keep moving – at least 30 minutes a day.
16. Breathe from your belly.
17. See the world with virgin eyes and you’ll find the extraordinary in the ordinary.
18. Relationships are more important than things (although I do have an unhealthy relationship with my iPhone).
 19. Grey hair is cool.
 20. And as Carl Kramer once said, breathe in, breathe out, breathe in, breathe out and before you know it, you are 100 years old.

Meals-on Wheels and the Center will be breaking with tradition and will be open on New Year’s Day but closed on the 2nd. And since Thursday is Meals-on-Wheels’ Bingo night, they are going to celebrate the first day of the year with another Bingo Bash. There will be great prizes – plus you can enjoy a free Hot Turkey Sandwich dinner starting at 5:00.

 Last week were you able to identify the three missing consonants? They were m, p and r. To finish out the year, see if you can identify the three consonants I have removed this week.

or te irt Tueday Nigh Muic and Dance o 2015, Andre, K.C. and Tom, and woever ele tey can pick up along te way, will be playing there entertaining brand of county muic on January 6th tarting at 7:00 PM. Everyone I invited rom grandkid to grandms and grandpa. Donation or the band and the Center are always appreciated.

 The name of the popular toy that could travel down a flight of stairs, end over end and stop upright was the Slinky. (And the winner of a Saturday breakfast in April is Dayle Nagle.)

 At the end of every year, we are inundated with the top ten lists: best movies, best albums, best books, best dressed, best undressed and more. And although I was more interested in sports (Johnny Unitas and Oscar Robertson) than reading, the more literate readers of this column may know this week’s “Remember When” question. What was the name of the critically acclaimed Cold War spy novel, which during 1964 was at the top of the New York Times’ best seller list for 34 weeks? E-mail your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788 or drop it off with the identity of Control, the head of Circus.

Well, it’s been another week, as I look forward to seeing what surprises come my way. Until we meet again, an Irish toast to the new year, “May you never forget what is worth remembering or remember what is best forgotten”.

“Year’s end is neither an end nor a beginning but a going on, with all the wisdom that experience can instill in us.” Hal Borland

Aging Well December 23rd 2014

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Now that the children have grown and left the stable, Christmas is much quieter. I no longer have to worry about buying the Christmas tree that will leave pine needles sprinkled like fairy dust along its path to the living room – the artificial tree works just fine. Or worry about the right presents to buy – cash seems to be the preference. The only worries this year are what to pack and how soon to leave for the airport. Because even though my wife has told me a winter vacation in Arizona would be cheating (you have to suffer through the winter), it is okay to spend four days in sunny San Diego visiting our children. I’m just thankful they aren’t going to school in Buffalo.

Since there isn’t much to announce, now that Christmas has almost arrived, and a good joke is a gift that can keep on giving, I want to share this one sent to me by Virgil Choate. While so many jokes about “old” folks are stereotypical about the conditions many of us experience: loss of hearing, frailty, and something else I can’t remember, this one points out why you don’t want to mess with us “old” folks with our years of life experiences. You may have heard it before, but it is worth enjoying again.
A lawyer and a senior are sitting next to each other on a long flight. The lawyer is thinking that seniors are so dumb that he could get one over on them easily. So, the lawyer asks if the senior would like to play a fun game.
The senior is tired and just wants to take a nap, so he politely declines and tries to catch a few winks. The lawyer persists, saying that the game is a lot of fun.
“I ask you a question, and if you don’t know the answer, you pay me only $5.00. Then, you ask me one, and if I don’t know the answer, I will pay you $500.00,” he says.
This catches the senior’s attention and, to keep the lawyer quiet, he agrees to play the game with him.
The lawyer asks the first question. “What’s the distance from the Earth to the Moon?”
“The senior doesn’t say a word, but reaches into his pocket, pulls out a five-dollar bill, and hands it to the lawyer.
Now, it’s the senior’s turn. He asks the lawyer, “What goes up a hill with three legs, and comes down with four?”
The lawyer uses his laptop to search all references and he can’t find it on the Internet.
He sends E-mails to all the smart friends he knows; and all to no avail. After an hour of searching, he finally gives up.
He wakes the senior and hands him $500.00. The senior pockets the $500.00 and goes right back to sleep. The lawyer is going nuts now, not knowing the answer.
He wakes the senior up again and asks, “Well, so what goes up a hill with three legs and comes down with four??”
The senior reaches into his pocket, hands the lawyer $5.00, and goes back to sleep. 
Were you able to identify the three missing consonants in last week’s Tuesday Night music announcement? They were the first three consonants of the alphabet. But this week, I am upping the ante and removing three random consonants. Can you identify them?
Duing the holidays any activities at the Cente have been cancelled but not Tuesday Night usic, because soe folks just gotta dance. On Tuesday Decebe 30th, the Dufu Boys will be laying fro 7:00 – 9:00 .The doos oen at 6:00 and donations ae always aeciated.
The powdered drink that become popular when it was used by John Glenn in the early manned space flights was TANG. (And the winner of a free Saturday breakfast in April is Virginia McClain.)

This week’s “Remember When” question is about a toy most all of us who grew up in the 50’s and 60’s played with. What was the name of the popular toy, invented in 1943, that can travel down a flight of stairs, end over end and land upright? E-mail your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788 or drop it off with a 1999 postage stamp that honored this toy.

Well, it’s been another week, remembering to count my blessings before I go to sleep. Until we meet again, may all of you have a safe and joyous Christmas when we celebrate peace on earth and goodwill towards all people.

“When we give cheerfully and accept gratefully, everyone is blessed.”
― Maya Angelou

aging Well December 16th 2014

Aging Well in the Gorge No Comments
I’m not fond of these winter doldrums in The Dalles: grey overcast skies with a few days of sunshine, just to tease us that better days are ahead. And although I may not like them, I find these gloomy days are necessary, because without them I wouldn’t really appreciate the warm t-shirt days with blue skies. And isn’t that the way it is in our daily lives? All the challenges and difficulties, the missteps and losses, remind us not to take for granted the simple joys and comforts we can experience every precious day.
I’ve mentioned it once already, but in case you didn’t write it on your calendar, from 8:00 AM until 9:30 on Saturday, December 20th, is the Center’s December Breakfast sponsored by The Springs at Mill Creek. The menu includes pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausage, fruit and a hot beverage to keep you warm – all for $5.00 or $4.00 for Center members. Bring along some friends and meet some new ones. It will also be your last chance to purchase your tickets for the quilt, hand stitched by the Center quilters, that will be raffled off at 9:00 AM.
If you enjoy homemade baked goodies, Meals-on-Wheels is having their annual Bake Sale on Thursday from 11:00 – 1:00. You can buy all kinds of tasty treats while helping the good work of Meals-on-Wheels.
Although we may never know who Susan was or why she was so lazy, Meals-on-Wheels is looking for some Lazy Susans if you have one lying around the house (which would be expected of a Lazy Susan). With the new five foot round tables, the folks who eat regularly at the Center (they know where you can always find a good nutritious meal that is gentle on the pocketbook), found it difficult to pass the coffee and the other condiments. And being an industrious lot, they came up a solution: a Lazy Susan for each of the round tables. But there are 15 tables and so far only 2 Lazy Susans have been donated. So bring in a lazy Susan and enjoy a nice meal for a $3.75 donation if you have reached that magic age of sixty.
The Center’s Loan Closet is used daily and depends on individual donations of medical equipment. Right now, we are generously supplied with rollators which is unusual. (I learned rollator is the correct name for the walkers that have the four wheels, a seat and hand brakes). We also have a supply of absorbent undergarments, (I was going to say for loan, but we don’t really want them back) as well as several hospital beds. But at this time, we are in need of shower seats and bed rails.
Were you able to read last week’s music announcement without the vowels? It wasn’t easy, but this time I will keep the vowels but remove two consonants. See if you can tell which consonants are left out and what the announcement says.  
eause of the winter weather, it may e diffiult to get outside to ike, run or walk, ut you an always find a warm plae to dane. And on Tuesday nights that place is the enter where the Highline Express will e performing from 7:00 – 9:00 PM. The ost is only a donation to keep the musi playing and everyone is welome. Also on Sunday the 21st, the Jammers will take their turn playing at the enter from 2:00 – 5:00. Admission is free ut there will e pie and ie ream for sale.
The “Giant Killers” were the 1967 OSU Football team. (The winner of a free Saturday Breakfast on December 20th is Dan Erickson: a true beaver believer who remembers QB Steve Preece and Earthquake Enyart.)
Until I left home for college, I thought you could only cut cheese with a wired utensil; and I seldom tasted butter. Velveeta and margarine were the staples around my house, as well as this orange flavored powdered drink. For this week’s “Remember When” question, what was the name of the drink created in 1959 but didn’t become popular until it was used by John Glenn in the early manned space flights? E-mail your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788 or drop it off with a box of Pop Rocks and a container of Cool Whip.
Well, it’s been another week, working my way towards imperfection. Until we meet again, when everything seems overwhelming, stop, take a deep belly breath and remember – all things shall pass.

“My definition of an intellectual is someone who can listen to the William Tell Overture without thinking of the Lone Ranger.” Billy Connolly

Aging Well December 9th 2014

Aging Well in the Gorge No Comments
Many of you may still be planning a walk along the streets of Barcelona, or a relaxing cruise along the Rhine. Or maybe a trip to Branson, Missouri or Nashville, Tennessee.  You’re still fit and have the financial means to travel even though getting crammed in an airplane, like cows in a slaughterhouse, is not something anyone looks forward to.
But if you are one who finds as much comfort and satisfaction from just staying closer to home and tending the garden, visiting with friends at your regular coffee spot, or watching old black and white cowboy movies on the television, you are not alone.
According to an August 19th article written by Ron Lieber for the New York Times and sent to me by Bill Noonan, the kinds of experiences that bring us happiness changes over time. Leiber cites the research by Amit Bhattacharjee and Cassie Mogilner who wrote in The Journal of Consumer Research that as people grow older, the happiness they receive from the ordinary, everyday experiences increases.  And eventually the happiness potential of ordinary activities eventually grows equal to that of the extraordinary or uncommon experiences.
I still remember my once-in-a-lifetime experiences: the beauty and terror of driving a rented Alfa Romeo along the 1 ½ lane country roads through the highlands of Scotland; visiting the cultural museums and historical sights on Jeju Island off the southern coast of Korea. And closer to home, climbing Mt. Hood and thinking, once is enough!
As I grow older, I find that the more common experiences such as cooking or reading, can be just as rewarding and satisfying. Which is good – and timely. Because as I continue to pay off the parent loans for my children’s education and the credit card debt – which paid for the trips mentioned above, I may be able to afford only the simple everyday experiences.
The Mid-Columbia Health Foundation’s Festival of Trees (an event where you find out it is okay to dress up in The Dalles) was a packed ballroom even with the Oregon Ducks football game televised at the same time. And for the second year, the Center’s Yoga Class entered a tree with the theme “Steppin Out” in honor of all the active older adults who contribute time, talent and energy to support the community. Thanks to Santa’s helpers who made it possible: Judy Reid, Diana Compton, Donna Gooch, Laurie Fadness and Jan Holt with technical assistance from Tim Willis at the Habitat ReStore
Who needs vowels anyway? They are only five and sometimes six of the letters of the alphabet. See if you really need them as you try to read this week’s reminder for the Center’s Tuesday Night music.  
W wll mss Trmn nw tht h hs mvd nd wll b strmmng hs gtr n th bg cty f Prtlnd. nstd t fll hs rglr spt n th 16th, th Smc Bys wll b plyng fr yr dncng nd lstnng plsr. vryn s wlcm. Th msc strts t 7:00 nd th drs pn t 6:00. Dntns r pprctd fr bth th bnd, t’s nt chp t drv n frm Gldndl, nd t hlp py th ht bll
Not all the spaghetti you through against the wall sticks, and last week’s question was an example. But it was a reminder that fifty years ago a gallon of gas may have cost only thirty cents and a postage stamp five, a family was only earning $6569 – an eighth of what an average family makes today. (And the winner of a free Saturday Breakfast on December 20th is Sandy Goforth.)
With the University of Oregon going to the Rose Bowl and Marcus Mariota being considered for the Heisman Trophy, it’s time to talk football – but about that other university along I-5. So for the beaver lovers, this “Remember When” question is for you. During what year did the OSU football team, which wasn’t expected to do much, finish the season winning six straight games including beating second-ranked Purdue (which I remember because I was attending Purdue at the time), tied second-ranked UCLA, beat top ranked USC, the University of Oregon and became known as the “Giant Killers”? E-mail your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788 or drop it off with an autographed picture of the “Great Pumpkin”.
Well, it’s been another week, trying to keep my back to the wall and my feet to the fire. Until we meet again, if you don’t know the words to the song, you can always hum.

“There are lots of people who mistake their imagination for their memory.” Josh Billings