Category Archives: Aging Well in the Gorge

Welcome to Aging Well in the Gorge, the Mid-Columbia Senior Center’s article series by former director Scott McKay.

Aging Well in the Gorge – March 13th 2018

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Have you found you are just not interested in most of your parent’s stuff? And neither are your children.
Times change, and styles and tastes change accordingly. (I’m still waiting for my suede coat with the big lapels to come back into style.) For example, these days depression era furniture has little value, while quality mid-century modern furniture is popular.
Also our lifestyles have evolved. My wife and I are trying to downsize and we don’t need any more stuff. And my children? Because of the high cost of housing where they live, they have adapted to living in a small space – and shopping at Ikea is their new norm. (A visit to my daughter usually means at least an afternoon of “bonding” by assembling Ikea furniture.) And when was the last time you used your fine china or silverware?  Even for Thanksgiving dinner, the “good stuff” is seldom brought out.
Recently, I read “Sorry. No One Wants Your Parent’s Stuff” by Richard Eisenberg on the website Next Avenue. He offers the following tips on how to help “unfurnish” your parent’s place – and possibly yours as well.
1. Get started while your parents are around. Learn the stories behind their stuff. It can make a difference whether you want to keep it or not. 2. If you are trying to sell the items, give yourself plenty of time to find buyers. 3. Do an online search to see whether there’s a market for your parents’ furniture, china or crystal. 4. Get the jewelry appraised. There may be a treasure in your mother’s jewelry box. 5. Look for a nearby consignment shop or a person who liquidates estates. 6. See if someone locally could use what you inherited. 7. Download the free “Rightsizing and Relocation Guide” from the National Association of Senior Move Managers which can be found on their website. 8. And finally be prepared to be disappointed. That prized set of china your parents bought when they were newlyweds may not be worth much at all.
One of my frustrations is that children get to have all the fun. They can play with Legos, read comic books and color in coloring books. Well, I don’t have any Legos, but you can join Kerry Cobb, director of the Columbia Center for the Arts, for her class on coloring. This is your chance to create, socialize, and enjoy the meditative relaxation of coloring by coloring pages from stunningly beautiful coloring books created by adults for adults. The class will be held on Wednesday, March 28th from 1:00 – 2:30 at the Center.  
The next Blue Zones Purpose Workshop will be held Monday, March 19th at the Center from 5:30 – 7:30. The Purpose Workshop will help you identify your strengths and talents, so you can make a difference where you live and work – and by doing so, “add years to your life and life in your years”.
The Center was the location for this year’s MCMC Health Foundation’s Tradition of Compassion Awards. And seeing all the amazing individuals and businesses recognized for their good work, strengthens my pride in this community. But more importantly, their recognition can inspire us to continue doing what we can to make our communities a stronger and healthier place to live.
In 1962, Marilyn Monroe sang a sultry “Happy Birthday” to John F. Kennedy for his 45th birthday. (I’ve found one advantage of NOT being charismatic or good looking – there are fewer temptations!) I received correct answers from Susan Ortega, Kim Birge, Louise Wooderson, Ed Anghilante, Jim Ayers, Sharon Hull and this week’s winner of a free quilt raffle ticket, Sam Bilyeu.
But some thought last week’s JFK question was too easy, so for this week’s “Remember When” question I’m raising it a few notches.
Hubert Humphrey ran against John F. Kennedy in the 1960 Democratic presidential primary. But he found it frustrating because of Kennedy’s many glamorous friends including Frank Sinatra who recorded Kennedy’s presidential campaign song written to the tune of what 1959 hit single? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or drop it off with a DVD of the movie A Hole in the Head.
Well, it’s been another week hoping for the good to come and the bad to go. Until we meet again, take some time to decide what you really want.
“Confidence is the feeling you sometimes have before you fully understand the situation.” Anonymous

Aging Well in the Gorge March 6th 2018

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What do most of us have in common? A pill box of assorted medications? We’re a little slower but smarter? A sense we’ve all been through this before? Well, yes. But what we also have in common is most of us have visited the Emergency Room at least once during the last ten years. In fact, nationally, the number of us “over 65’ers” account for more than 20 million ER visits annually.
But we all know returning home from ER doesn’t mean everything is hunky-dory. There can be serious consequences from an ER visit, and it is important to know how, as a family member or friend, we can provide support once they return home.
In the article “For Elder Health, Trips to the ER Are Often A Tipping Point” written by Judith Graham for the Kaiser Health News, Dr. Kevin Biese, chair of the American College of Emergency Physicians’ geriatric ER accreditation initiative, offers these suggestions.
Make sure your loved one’s medications are the same as in the hospital’s computer. And don’t leave without knowing if any medications have been stopped or changed and why.
Make sure your loved one is comfortable. The average time a patient spends in an emergency room in Oregon ranges from 88 to 238 minutes. Bring her eyeglasses or any hearing-aid devices that can help keep her engaged. If there are indications of pain, encourage her pain to be treated.
Know what happened in ER including what tests were done and what treatments were given. Before leaving know what diagnoses the staff reached and what kind of follow-up is being recommended.
Communicate effectively. When the nurse or doctor explains what to do when you return home, repeat back what you heard to make sure you understood correctly. And don’t be hesitant to ask any clarifying questions.
Follow through. Ask about the next steps. Who is going to communicate with her regular doctor about what happened in ER? And should a follow up appointment be scheduled, and who should make it and when?  
Finally, the days after visiting ER are critical. If you can’t stay with your loved one, continue to keep an eye on her. You may want to arrange for extra help even if it’s only for a few days. (You can have meals delivered by Meals-on-Wheels.) Check in frequently to make sure the plan of care from ER is working. Are her needs being met, is her pain being adequately controlled (without the risk of addiction) and is her mental condition normal?  
The skilled nurses and doctors in ER want to make sure your loved one is given excellent care. But the emergency room visit is not the end, but just the beginning. It is important that you are both the comforter and advocate, so your loved one receives the best possible care during and after the emergency room visit.
I am scheduling a series of art programs that would include activities offered by the Columbia Center for the Arts and as well as documentaries about artists and various art movements. If you want to be contacted about these future programs, send me your name, phone number and email address.
I have only four tickets left for the matinee performance of the brand-new production of The Sound of Music at the Keller Auditorium in Portland on March 11th. The ticket price is $75 including transportation. Call the Center to purchase your ticket.
I remember back during high school, before grading on the curve became the norm, I had to score 95% to earn and “A”, and 88% to earn a “B”. But this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket, Jim Ayers, (which will be raffled off at the Center’s Cherry Festival Breakfast) (Oops, I mean the quilt, not Jim!) remembers 92% would earn you an “A”.
For this week’s “Remember When” question, in 1962 Marilyn Monroe sang a sultry “Happy Birthday” to what world leader on his 45th birthday? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or drop it off with a Jean Louis designed dress made of sheer, flesh-colored marquisette fabric and embellished with over 2,500 hand-sewn crystals and 6,000 shimmering rhinestones.
Well, it’s been another week telling myself, “Focus! Focus!”. Until we meet again, even a blind pig can find an acorn once in a while.
“We don’t see things as they are. We see them as we are.” Anaïs Nin

Aging in the Gorge February 27th 2018

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The thought of losing your memory is scary and it’s not reassuring knowing that by 2025 7.1 million adults 65 and older will exhibit dementia with 60% of those individuals still living in their own homes and 1 in 7 living alone. (And every time I accidently put the cheese in the freezer, I wonder, am I going to be one of the 7.1 million?)
With this new reality, there is a growing national movement to create Dementia Friendly Communities: communities where more people understand dementia, where there is less fear of dementia, and people living with dementia are included and supported to live independently longer. This initiative offers guidance for every sector of the community from business and government to neighbors and friends.
Our community may not yet be ready to embrace this initiative, but there’re steps you can take to support people with dementia. Besides learning about the effects of dementia on individuals, families, and caregivers, you can treat people with dementia with dignity and respect by using the following ten dementia friendly communication skills. You can find more information at the Dementia Friendly America’s website – www.dfamerica.org.
1.Greet people warmly even if you think they do not remember you. If they seem confused, remind them who you are. 2. Slow your pace slightly and allow time for the person to process and respond. 3. Speak clearly and calmly, be patient and understanding. 4. Keep communication simple; ask one question at a time. 5. Listen with empathy and seek to understand the person’s reality or feelings. 6. Connect on an emotional level even if conversation topics shift or do not make sense to you. 7. Be aware of the person’s and your own body language: smile, make eye contact at eyelevel. 8. Enjoy spending time with the person in the present moment. 9. Offer hugs, hand holding as appropriate. 10. Avoid arguing with or embarrassing the person.
But doesn’t this advice apply to almost any interaction? I mean I wish my wife would slow down and speak clearly and calmly. (I can’t understand you!) And I’m sure she wishes I hadn’t embarrassed her by saying what I thought was a witty comment. (But the hugs and hand holding can make up for it all.)
Those with memory loss deserve to be treated with respect and dignity – not with pity.  And we can start by remembering to use these dementia friendly communication skills.
You’ll want to put this on your calendar! The Northern Wasco County Parks and Recreation is holding a “Under the Sea Dance” for folks 55 years young and up on Saturday, March 10th from 12:30 – 2:30 at the Civic Auditorium. Enjoy an under the sea adventure unlike any other – and without getting wet! There’ll be music, dancing, snacks, and activities creating memories you’ll never forget. The cost is $15 per person and you can purchase tickets online at www.nwprd.org or at the door.
The fourth and final program for the Original Courthouse Regional History Series is “Obsolete U.S. Currency: From the Half Cent to the $100,000 Bill”. Rodger Nichols reveals what pioneers carried as pocket change and will share stories of odd and unusual currency. He is also willing to do a free evaluation of three coins or bills per person after his program. Program begins at 1:30 pm at the 1859 courthouse, 410 West 2nd Place.
The American female figure skater who won a Gold Medal in the ladies singles at the 1968 Winter Olympics was Peggy Fleming.  (This week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket is the avid viewer of figure skating, Tiiu Vahtel.)
Now that the fun of the Winter Olympics is over, let’s get serious and talk about high school grades. Today to earn an A, you must answer 90% of the questions correctly, and for a B, 80%. But if my memory hasn’t failed me, it was harder during my high school days. For this week’s “Remember When” question, in high school what percentage of the questions did you have to answer correctly to earn an A; and a B? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or drop it off with your senior year high school report card.
Well, it’s been another week, deciding what to do about the weather. Until we meet again, nature is not always a kindhearted mother.
“Here is a rule I recommend. Never practice two vices at once.” Tallulah Bankhead

Aging in the Gorge February 20th 2018

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Last week you may have read an article in the Chronicle’s 2018 Life Planning Guide, encouraging parents to start a conversation with their adult children about such things as their hopes and fears, their financial situation, their personal property and long-term care.  
But as adult children, what should you say to your aging parents, or more specifically what should you NOT say? On the Next Avenue website, Linda Bernstein writes about “8 Things Not to Say to Your Aging Parents” to avoid the conversational potholes especially when their health and cognitive abilities are declining. And though it speaks to aging parents, it could be applied to any family member or friend.
Would you say any of these things?
1. “How can you not remember that!?” Short term memory often goes before long term memory. You can remember what happened on your wedding day but forget what you had for breakfast. It is scary thinking you may be losing your memory. An alternative is to use post-it notes and reminder calls.
2. “You could do that if you really tried.” It’s hard knowing you can no longer do things you once were able to do. And it doesn’t help to be reminded. Try to find out what the specific difficulty is and see if you can work around it or find someone to help.
3. “I just showed you how to use the DVR yesterday.”
It is difficult to learn any new technology, but even worse if your cognitive abilities and eyesight are declining.
4. “What does that have to do with what we are talking about.”
Often conversations go rogue. Maybe it’s a reduced attention span, or they haven’t been able to follow the conversation because of hearing loss. In these situations, gently bring the conversation back around or just listen.
5. “You already told me that.”
How many times have you repeated a story? Be patient – even though this is the umpteenth time you’ve heard about the space shuttle lifting off at Cape Kennedy.
6. “I want your silver tea service when you die.”
Nothing like coming across as a circling vulture! Do remind them that by making their wishes known, it could avoid future sibling conflicts.
7. “Wake up! I thought you wanted to see this.”
Darkened rooms or theaters can be an automatic cue to fall asleep. (I don’t think I have completely seen any of the recent Star War movies.)
8. “Hel-lo?! Your grandson’s name is Ryan.”
Sometimes it is not what you say, but how you say it. Say it gently with a friendly smile.
Conversations can be frustrating, especially with someone in the early stages of memory loss. But be patient and gentle. There may be a time when you will find yourself on the other side of the conversation.
Sunday, February 25th from 10:00 – 1:00 is the Center’s Bagel Brunch prepared by the Bagel Guy himself, Rick Leibowitz. You will have your choice of four kinds of bagels, (and these aren’t your Fred Meyer Bagels, but handmade bagels your grandmother would have made), three flavors of cream cheese, and smoked salmon. In addition, there will be apple crisp and fruit salad. Tickets are only $10.00 and can be purchased at the Center. The Bagel Brunch is sponsored by The Springs at Mill Creek.
A brand-new production of The Sound of Music is coming to Portland’s Keller Auditorium and you can be there. I have eight tickets left for the Sunday matinee performance on March 11th. The ticket price is $75 including transportation.
The two-time figure skating champion who first started providing figure skating commentary during the 1960 Winter Olympics was Dick Button. (Although he didn’t show me a double axel jump, the winner of a quilt raffle ticket is Dennis Wygal. And from last week, I forgot to mention Jim Ayers, and the person with the mystery signature, Dennis Davis.)
Sticking with the Olympics, for this week’s “Remember When” question, what female figure skater won a Gold Medal in the Ladies Singles at the 1968 Winter Olympics, the only Gold Medal won by the United States? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or drop it off with an a bottle of Robitussin.
Well, it’s been another week, taking it as it come. Until we meet again, it is what it is.

“I’m no longer quite sure what the question is, but I do know that the answer is ‘Yes’.” Leonard Bernstein

Aging Well in the Gorge February 13th 2018

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It’s a mystery!
A box of exquisite, embroidered quilt blocks was found in an empty house and donated to the Center’s Quilters. Each of the sixty-three quilt blocks had a signature stitched into them, but the blocks were never made into a quilt – until now.
Francie Yuhas assembled the blocks into a queen size quilt and the rest of the Center Quilters hand stitched the quilt together with batting and backing. The finished quilt is now on display in the dining room at the Center. But here’s the mystery. The Center Quilters don’t know why these signed quilt blocks were made. Could it be for a wedding or family reunion quilt, or a quilt made for someone leaving the area? Some of the names on the quilt blocks are: Ella Craig, Leola Egbert, Ruby Franz, Gertrude Maier and Isabel Sandoz. (You can find a list of all 63 names at the Center.)
The Center Quilter’s would appreciate any information as to why the sixty-three names are represented on the quilt. If you have any information, call the Center or you can find the Center Quilters downstairs at the Center every Monday between 10:00 and 3:00 PM.
Did you know rural Americans are twice as likely to die from opioid misuse as their urban counterparts—and adults ages 45 and older comprise nearly half of these deaths? You can learn more about the effects of opioid abuse by attending the Webinar “Opioid Issues & Trends Among Older Adults in Rural America” at the Center on February 21st starting at 11:30. Afterwards representatives from YouthThink will answer any questions.
The Flu can have serious complications particularly for older adults. This year the flu is hitting particularly hard, so don’t hesitate to call your doctor if you have a persistent cough, fever higher than 102 F and chills, a hard time breathing, shortness of breath, or chest pain when you cough. If tests show you have the flu and your symptoms started within the last 48 hours, your doctor may suggest antiviral medicine which can make you feel better and shorten your illness by 1 to 2 days. And to help prevent the spread of the flu, wash your hands with soap and warm water for 20 seconds including the areas between your fingers and around your nails.
Have you ever wondered who is an Odd Fellow and what they have to do with cemeteries? Well, “Independent Order of the Odd Fellows and Its Cemeteries” is the third of the February Regional History Forums at the Original Wasco County Museum on February 17th starting at 1:30 p.m. The sexton of the local Odd Fellows Cemeteries, Craig Hector, will share the unique history and values of the I.O.O.F. and how since the nineteenth century, the lodge’s concern for common folks, beyond their fraternal organization, led them to sponsor cemeteries that were open to all.
Friday night you missed a fantastic International Chicken Dinner prepared by Rick Leibowitz with assistance from Tammy and her outstanding crew from the Baldwin Saloon; and with delightful desserts from Petite Provence served by the fun loving Red Hat Ladies. The whole evening was sponsored by The Springs at Mill Creek, who will also be sponsoring the Bagel Brunch, once again prepared by Rick Leibowitz, on Sunday February 25th from 10:00 – 1:00. Tickets are only $10.00 and can be purchased at the Center.
The name of the type of British-French supersonic passenger jet airliner that was first flown in 1969 was the Concorde. (I received correct answers from Sandy Haechrel and this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket whose name was left on my desk but I couldn’t read the signature!)
Figure skating is one of the most watched Winter Olympic sports, and even though I can’t remember who ever won, I do remember the always present TV analyst. For this week’s “Remember When” question who was the two-time figure skating champion (1948 and 1952), who first started providing figure skating commentary during the 1960 Winter Olympics? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or drop it off at the Center while performing a double axel jump.
Well, it’s been another week, trying to catch my breath. Until we meet again, take to time to discover and share your gifts.

“There are two ways to be rich: One is by acquiring much, and the other is by desiring little.” Jacki French Koller

Aging Well in the Gorge February 6th 2018

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It’s February, that time when you find out whether you paid Uncle Sam too much or not enough. There are many excellent tax preparers in the Mid-Columbia region, but if your tax situation is relatively simple, there is free help available through AARP Tax Aide. Since Tax Aide is supported by the AARP Foundation but also other federal and private grants that focus on helping low to moderate income persons or families equally, Tax Aide cannot give preference to any particular age group.
Tax Aide started last weekend and will continue through April 14th. In the area, there are three Tax Aide sites: The Center from 2:00 – 6:00 on Fridays and 9:00 – 1:00 on Saturdays; Tygh Valley Community Center from 9:00 – 1:00 pm on Thursdays, and the Rufus Community Center in Sherman County on Saturdays where you’ll need to call 541-993-1054 to make an appointment.
For your Tax Aide appointment, you’ll need to bring several documents: last year’s tax return; government issued identification for both tax payer and spouse even if both are not present when the taxes are being prepared; and a Social Security identification card (original, photocopy or a photo on your smartphone) for all individuals listed on the tax return.
And finally, don’t forget the obvious: all tax documents or statements that show income received and all tax documents or itemized statement that show expense incurred by you and your family.
One benefit of getting older is that there are some things you just don’t have to do anymore. For example, I’ve met more folks my age who tell me they don’t drive at night anymore. But I’ve realized as I was driving to Portland after dark, you must be out of your mind to want to drive at night – no matter your age! Think about it. The dark stretches of road where you can only see as far as your high beams reach; the barely visible street markings, the blinding headlights of oncoming traffic, and I won’t even mention the fun of driving through the rain in the dark.
How did I ever think that was such a pleasure? And now if I don’t need to drive at night, I can say to myself, “No, I think I’ll pass” and enjoy the evening at home with my wife.
Whether you are a railroad buff or not, you should check out the second of the annual February Regional History Forums at the Original Wasco County Museum on February 10th starting at 1:30 p.m. Retired math teacher Loren Delaney, who was born in The Dalles and raised in Wishram, will present “Fourteen Miles on the Spokane, Portland and Seattle Railroad” – a tour of north shore railroad history between mile posts 94 and 108.
A couple quick reminders since I hear all too often, “I was planning on coming to (fill in the blank), but I forgot!”
The International Chicken Dinner is this Friday, February 9th from 5:00 – 7:00 sponsored by The Springs at Mill Creek and prepared by Rick Leibowitz with assistance from the Baldwin Saloon and desserts from Petite Provence. The cost is $20 per person and only 200 tickets are being sold.
And Kerry Cobb, Executive Director of the Columbia Center for the Arts, will be speaking about “The Art & History of Photography” at the Center on Wednesday, February 7th at 10:30. Learn about the origins of the photographic arts and experience the work of noted photographers.
The American who won a 1932 Olympic swimming gold medal and starred in the science fiction film serial Flash Gordon was Buster Crabbe. (I received correct answers from Sandy Haechrel, who also remembers Buster Crabbe as Tarzan, Joanne Scott and this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket, Kay Tenold.)
For this week’s “Remember When” question, what was the name of the type of British-French turbojet-powered supersonic passenger jet airliner that had a maximum speed over twice the speed of sound and was first flown in 1969? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or send it with a 1997 New York to London round trip ticket on this type of airliner which cost at the time only $7,995.
Well, it’s been another week, enjoying this unusually mild winter weather. Until we meet again, remember forgetfulness isn’t a memory problem, it is just a retrieval problem.

“The universe is under no obligation to make sense to you.” Neil DeGrasse Tyson

Aging Well in the Gorge January 30th 2018

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When we were younger we didn’t spend much time thinking about our purpose in life. We knew what it was: find a job, get married and raise a family – at least that was what we were told.
But now that the children have left home to find a job, get married and raise a family – at least that is what we told them; and we have retired from the obligation of work, what is our purpose now?
To help answer that question, The Dalles Blue Zones Project is offering a Purpose Workshop at the Center on Tuesday, February 6th starting at 5:30. The Purpose Workshop will help you discover a clear definition of your gifts and identify ways you can use those gifts every day, either through existing or new avenues in your lives – such as volunteering. Through this process you can deepen your sense of purpose and find greater meaning in your life, significantly impacting your health, happiness, and longevity – even at our age. You can RSVP for the workshop at http://go.bluezonesproject.com/tdpurpose01or via Facebook.
Thanks to financial support from Columbia Basin Care Facility and The City of The Dalles, new flooring has finally been installed in the Center’s dining room. And at the same time, the upstairs restrooms have been remodeled with new flooring, and a fresh coat of paint; and they should have new sinks and faucets installed by the end of this week. Thanks to our local contractors for doing a fantastic job including Oliver’s Floor Covering, Garry Denney Floor Covering, Devco Mechanical and Terray Harmon Painting. And a big thank-you to Jess Birge for helping to reinstall the newly painted restroom stalls.
And why not check out the new dining room floor and remodeled restrooms when you stop by the Center to purchase your tickets for the International Chicken Dinner on February 9th from 5:00 – 7:00 sponsored by The Springs at Mill Creek. The price for this one-of-kind dinner prepared by Rick Lebowitz with assistance from the Baldwin Saloon and desserts from Petite Provence is only $20. But hurry. Only 200 tickets are being sold!
When we were youngsters, our mothers would often tell us as we left for school, “Don’t forget to take your lunch!”  And now that we are oldsters at the other end of the age continuum, your spouse may tell you as you head for the store, “Don’t forget the lettuce!”
It seems no matter our age, we need reminders. So here is a quick reminder about the first installment of the annual February Regional History Forum at the Original Wasco County Museum, located at 410 W. Second Place. On February 3rd starting at 1:30 p.m, Susan Buce, local historian and Collections Registrar for the Discovery Center, will present “Airmail Beacons of the Columbia River Gorge” – a fascinating look back at a little-known part of Gorge history. The Airmail beacons served to guide the pilots who flew the mail by air from coast to coast in the 1930’s; and were maintained by “mechanicians” who kept the blinking lights shining for the pilots to see.
Kerry Cobb, Executive Director of the Columbia Center for the Arts, will be back at the Center on Wednesday, February 7th at 10:30 to present a 90-minute talk on “The Art & History of Photography”. You will learn about the origins of the photographic arts, and experience the work of noted photographers from the 19th-21st century.
The 1973 film that told the story of two con-artists involved in a complicated plot to scam a mob boss was The Sting. (The only correct answer I received was from world traveler Sandy Haechrel, this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket.)
This week’s “Remember When” question comes from one of those conversations I can’t remember with whom or why I had it – and it was only last week! What American won a 1932 Olympic swimming gold medal and starred in the science fiction film serial Flash Gordon? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or send it with a short description of the planet Mongo.
Well, it’s been another week, wondering if we are going to escape the winter without any more snow. Until we meet again, everything seems to take longer than you think – but, it’s not like we don’t have the time.
“The mystery of human existence lies not in just staying alive, but in finding something to live for.”

― Fyodor Dostoyevsky, The Brothers Karamazov

Aging Well in the Gorge January 23rd 2018

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Scams have been around ever since a con-artist in the Middle Ages tried to sell a pig in a poke. But with the advances in communication through the Internet and social media, today’s scams are more common and sophisticated. And because older adults may not be as aware of the threats and how to prevent them; and yet are thought to have significant financial resources, they are a prime target.
Below is a quick listing of the top 10 financial scams collected by the National Council on Aging. See if you have been the target of any of these scams.
1.) Fraudulent anti-aging products – what we pay to look 40 again! 2.) Internet fraud – emails to “update” or “verify” your personal information. 3.) Investment schemes – from pyramid schemes to the Nigerian prince scam. 4.) Homeowner/reverse mortgage scams. 5.)  Counterfeit prescription drugs on the Internet – lose your money and harm your health at the same time. 6.) Sweepstakes and lottery scams – there is no free lunch. 7.) Funeral & cemetery scams – scammers read obituaries and call the grieving spouse claiming the deceased had an outstanding debt with them. 8.) The grandparent scam – starts with “Hi Grandma, do you know who this is?” and then the caller asks for money.
And two of the more prominent scams.
 9.) The Telemarketing/phone charity scams. If you are unsure of a charity, you can check how it is rated by Charity Navigator: an online site that reviews non-profits. And do not follow any links within the email or open any attachments particularly if they claim to contain pictures of a tragedy. These attachments may contain viruses.
10.) Medicare scams. Since we are of that certain age, Medicare is a common source for many scams targeting older adults. In one scam, the caller says your insurance company owes you a refund and they need your bank account number and Social Security number to deposit it.
A more recent scam focuses on the new ID card all Medicare recipients will receive sometime between April 2018 and April 2019. The Federal Trade Commission is warning Medicare recipients that if someone calls to confirm your personal information on the card, or says you must pay a fee to receive the new card, it’s a scam.
Be aware of how to protect yourself from these hucksters who want to separate you from your money. And when you do want to give your money away, find a local non-profit. There are many who need the financial help.
During the month of February, the Center is planning several special events highlighting the Center’s role of “enriching the community by sharing and caring”. One of those events is a special International Chicken Dinner prepared by Rick Lebowitz with assistance from the Baldwin Saloon. It will be held at the Center on Friday, February 9th from 5:00 – 7:00 PM. You can purchase your tickets at the Center, but only 200 tickets will be sold at $20 a piece so you should purchase your tickets soon. Because of our generous sponsor, The Springs at Mill Creek, every penny of the ticket sales will go to support the Center.
Maybe it was just because I dated a theater major when I attended Purdue University that I knew the answer to last week’s question. But the French actor and mime who performed all over the world to spread the “art of silence” was Marcel Marceau. (The only correct answer I received was from Jess Birge, who may or may not have dated a theater major, but is this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket.)
This week’s “Remember When” question is about the ultimate con film which was released in 1973 and won seven Oscars including Best Picture. What was the name of the movie set in September 1936 that told the story of two con-artists involved in a complicated plot to con a mob boss? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or send it with a recording of the Scott Joplin melody “The Entertainer”.
Well, it’s been another week, listening to the conversations in my head. Until we meet again, it’s not the first step that’s the most important, it’s the next step.

“Cats have a scam going – you buy the food, they eat the food, they go away; that’s the deal.” Eddie Izzard

Aging Well in the Gorge January 16th 2018

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Last week I heard this parable of a Chinese farmer.
One day a farmer’s horse ran away. His neighbor hears of his bad news and comes over to commiserate. “I hear that you lost your horse. That is bad news.”
Well, the next day the farmer’s horse returns to his stable, and has brought back nine wild horses. The neighbor across the way can’t believe what he hears and decides to come over and congratulate him. “This is such good news,” he says.
“Good news, bad news, who’s to say,” said the farmer.
The next day the farmer’s son decided to ride one of the wild horses, and as luck would have it, the son was thrown from the horse and broke his leg. Of course, upon hearing this sad news, their neighbor came over to offer condolences. “This is such bad news,” he said.
“Bad news, good news, who’s to say,” said the farmer.
On the following day soldiers came by commandeering an army. They took sons from most of the surrounding farms, but because the farmer’s son had a broken leg, he could not go and was spared.
The neighbor comes running over and says, “Yes! This is such good news; how lucky you are!”
And the farmer replies, “Good news, bad news, who’s to say?”
Have you experienced “bad news” from which you later found some “good news”? This parable of the Chinese farmer reminds us that our situation is always fluid, and we shouldn’t become too consumed by either our good fortune or bad. There is no magic crystal ball to tell us what our future holds.
When we experience hardships and accidents, we can take comfort in looking for the hidden benefits and opportunities. Granted it may not compensate for the current hurt and pain, but we’re tough and resilient. And the “good news”? Much of what we have learned about life has come from the “bad news” we have experienced.
You may have seen the lawn signs and posters around town, but I want to encourage you to show your support for the Blue Zones Project in The Dalles by attending the Community Kick-Off this Friday, January 19th at Civic Auditorium. The kick-off starts with the Wellness Fair at 5:30 pm, and then a one-hour presentation at 6:00 pm. The event will continue until 8:30 with fun, family friendly well-being booths and activities, cooking demonstrations, healthy food, local performances, giveaways, yoga, and downshifting demonstrations. Learn more and RSVP at go.bluezonesproject.com/Thedalles/kickoff.
The Center has already received several calls about the AARP Tax Aide program. The dedicated volunteers will finish their training this week, so they will be ready when the program starts February 2nd and continues through April 14thon Fridays from 2:00 – 6:00 and Saturdays from 9:00 – 1:00. During the first weeks, there is always a long line, so you need to arrive early. But they will tell you if you are too late, so you won’t be wasting your time in line.
The name of the brand of colorful low-riding tricycles which were made mostly of plastic with an oversized front wheel was Big Wheels. (I received correct answers from Kim Birge, Sandy Haechrel, Jim Ayers, and this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket, anonymous – who forgot to leave their name on the answering machine.) 
I was listening to Live Wire on OPB radio when host Luke Burbank interviewed Shawn Wen about a famous French mime who worked for the French Resistance during WW II. This mime first toured the United States in 1955 and you may remember seeing him on television performing one of his famous pantomimes – The Cage, Walking Against the Wind, or The Mask Maker. For this week’s “Remember Question”, who was the French actor and mime who performed all over the world to spread the “art of silence”? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or send it with a picture of Bip the Clown.
Well, it’s been another week, complaining about the sun in my eyes – when the sun finally shows itself.  Until we meet again, as they say in Minnesota, there is no such thing as bad weather, just different kinds of good weather.

“I’ve been absolutely terrified every moment of my life, and I’ve never let it keep me from doing a single thing that I wanted to do.” Georgia O’Keefe

Aging Well in the Gorge January 9th 2018

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With all the preconceive notions about aging and the common stereotypes about old people, one day we might hear someone singing, “Old people, what are they good for? Absolutely nothing!” But we know better. We regularly encounter older folks who demonstrate grace, humor, and kindness with tremendous spirit and grit.
Often the value of older adults is overlooked, so it was encouraging to read the December 29th, New York Times article by John Leland titled “Want to Be Happy? Think Like an Old Person”.
For three years he followed six adults, most of them in their 90’s, to try to understand the challenges and hardships adults over 85 confront financially, physically and emotionally. But not surprisingly, he learned much more.
In his interviews, he found these “old” folks resilient and realistic. They had learned to accept loss and grief; and took snubs or rejections in stride and no longer desired things they couldn’t afford. As they lived each day, they were not paralyzed by the challenges they faced.
In fact, they exhibited what gerontologists call the “paradox of old age”: as we grow older and much of our get-up-and-go has gotten-up-and-gone, instead of feeling worse and sorry for ourselves, we actually feel better – focusing on what we can still do and what we find rewarding, instead of what we can’t. As Ms. Wong told Leland, “I try not to think about bad things. It’s not good for old people to complain.”
From these six individuals in the twilight of their lives, he saw why older adults have higher levels of contentment and well-being than teenagers or young adults. And that there is much the younger generations can learn from these “over-the-hill” old folks.
If you want to read more about what John Leland learned from talking to folks 85+, his book, “Happiness Is a Choice You Make: Lessons from a Year Among the Oldest Old” will be published on Jan. 23.
If you enjoy reading and are interested in joining a book group, The Dalles – Wasco County Public Library hosts three different book groups that meet at 6:30 PM on different Thursdays.
Starting on the second Thursdays of the month, The Pride Book Club meets and is open to all adults interested in reading LGBTQA literature. The club will be discussing The Danish Girl by David Ebershoff on January 11th.
On the third Thursdays, the appropriately named Third Thursday Book Group meets. On January 18th they will be discussing the international bestseller The Readers of Broken Wheel Recommend, and in February they will be discussing The Forgetting Time by Sharon Guskin.
And on the fourth Thursdays, it’s The Mystery/Crime Book Group’s turn. On January 25th, they will be discussing American Heiress: The Wild Saga of the Kidnapping, Crimes and Trial of Patty Hearst by Jeffrey Toobin.
Anyone is welcome to join these book discussion groups. If you have any questions, contact the library at 541-296-2815.
The name of the company that manufactured the best-selling train set in the 50’s and by 1953 was the largest toy manufacturer in the world was Lionel. But I was also informed by Jim Ayers that Louis Marx and Company sold more train sets than Lionel in the late 1950’s, and he remembers having his own Marx O27 train set. (I received correct answers from Don McAllister, and this week’s winners of a quilt raffle ticket, Sam Guilip – and Jim Ayers for setting me straight.)  
And speaking of Louis Marx and Company, they introduced a toy in the 1970’s that was so successful, it was added to the National Toy Hall of Fame in 2009. For this week’s “Remember When” question, what was the name of the brand of colorful low-riding tricycles introduced by Louis Marx and Company, which were made mostly of plastic, with an oversized front wheel? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or send it with a picture of the Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, New York.
Well, it’s been another week, looking forward to the surprises of a new year. Until we meet again, don’t forget to write 2018 – and surprisingly, so far I’ve been doing pretty good.

“In spite of illness, in spite even of the archenemy sorrow, one can remain alive long past the usual date of disintegration if one is unafraid of change, insatiable in intellectual curiosity, interested in big things and happy in small ways.” Edith Wharton