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 May 23rd 2017

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How many times have you driven through the Gorge and because you’ve experienced it so often, you’ve taken its unique beauty for granted – like the picture hanging in the living room you never notice anymore.
The problem is we look, but don’t really see.
One reason is that our brains are very efficient. From all our many years of accumulative experiences, our brains create mental models that label our perceptions. For example, if I am driving down the street and I see a large object with a windshield moving towards me in my lane, I don’t need to know what color it is or the make and model, before I veer out of the way. My mental model tells me quickly that it is another car – and crashing into it wouldn’t be good for my health.
But what if I want to paint, let’s say, the view from my front window. I have to go beyond my mental model and be truly conscious of what I am seeing in all its depth and complexity. It can be a whole new experience.
I’m not an artist – and far from an art connoisseur, but I have come to appreciate how looking at all types of art can help me better see the details and nuances in my environment; and to better understand the diverse ways artists have perceived their world to create art movements such as Cubism, Impressionism, or Dadaism.   
If you are interested in understanding how art can enhance your visual intelligence and how visual perception affects art, you’ll want to attend “Visual Perception and Art” at the Center on May 30th at 1:30 PM. This colorful and entertaining 90-minute presentation by Kerry Cobb, Executive Director at the Columbia Center for the Arts, explores the nature of seeing through art. You’ll explore the function of art, how to interact more enjoyably with art and learn ways to be more observant and aware of your environment.
You still have the brains, but are there ever times you just need a little “brawn” around the house to move heavy items?
Well I’ve got an answer for you. The Wahtonka Community School students are available on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month to load/unload your boxes, furniture, etc. or just move heavy things around the house. They cannot provide a moving truck, but they do have dollies to move the heavier items. To schedule an appointment, call 541-506-3449 ext. 3211.
The Nehemiah Brown Concert was canceled in March but it has been rescheduled for Friday, June 6th. Nehemiah has performed at the Center many times and every time people walk away impressed by his silky-smooth voice. Because the concert is sponsored by The Dalles Health and Rehabilitation Center, the cost is only $3.00 per person.
The comedian/actor associated with the song “Thanks for the Memory”, first performed in the movie Big Broadcast of 1938, was Bob Hope. (I received correct answers from Sandy Haechrel, Marcia Lacock, Joanne Smith, Betsy Ayers, and Patricia Pfenning this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket. And last week’s winner, who I forgot to mention, was Jerry Phillips.)
After last week’s interlude, it’s back to Hollywood movies, specifically the western. Contrary to the typical western of the time, this movie did not have the chases, bar fights or spectacular scenery. For this week’s “Remember When” question, what was the name of the 1952 movie starring Gary Cooper as soon to retire Marshall Will Kane, and Grace Kelly as his new wife Amy Fowler, who were planning to leave town before they heard that an outlaw Kane had sent to jail was going to arrive on the noon train?  Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or send with the song “Do Not Forsake Me, Oh My Darlin'”, sung by Tex Ritter.
Well, it’s been another week, trying to find time to work in the garden. Until we meet again, simple is not always easy.
“Middle age is when you’re sitting at home on a Saturday night and the telephone rings and you hope it isn’t for you.” Ogden Nash

Aging Well in the Gorge May 16th 2017

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Some folks have minds like a steel trap. Mine is more like a wet noodle. And when you have to fly cross country for a week long family reunion, it can be a real test for that noodle.
Just remembering what to take is a challenge – hoping you haven’t forgotten any of the essentials such as your toothbrush, your pills or enough clean underwear.
And then there is getting through the security check at the airport.
I get so flustered when I get close to the end of the security line trying to remember what I need to remove: shoes, hat, watch, the three screws in my hip?, I consider giving up and throwing myself on the conveyor belt and going through the X-ray machine head-first.
And then they pull me to the side and start ruffling through my carry-on while my wife’s giving me that “What did you do wrong this time?” stare, shaking her head when they pull out a bottle of Virgil Root Beer that I forgot to drink.
I did make it on the plane and to the family reunion in South Carolina, but it wasn’t without mishap: I forgot my computer at the Center with this week’s practically completed column. So to keep it simple and enjoy the time with family, I am updating a past column – one that reminds us how to deal with an irritation of modern times that just seems to get worse.
Several folks at the Center have been talking about all the unsolicited calls they’ve received from telemarketers trying to sell them something they don’t want or need: a  vacation at the Marriott or a fantastic credit card deal. 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, if you haven’t already, 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.) 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. Also you may want to register your cell phone – although it shouldn’t be necessary because it is illegal in most cases for telemarketers to call a cell phone.
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  internal Do Not Call list, and by law they have to honor your request. Record the date you make the request, so you can report any future violations.
That should help, but telemarketers are tenacious. If you continue to receive unwanted calls, you can file a complaint with the FTC at the Do Not Call website or phone number.
But most importantly, never agree to purchase a service or product over the phone, and never give out your personal information. You don’t want an irritation to become a financial headache.
While I don’t have anyone scheduled for Tuesday Night Music and Dance at the Center on May 23rd or the 30th, l’m still looking for someone to teach dance lessons on Tuesdays. If you of know of anyone, send them my way.
The name of the movie in which Lina Lamont and Don Lockwood struggled to adapt to “talkies” while Don falls in love with chorus girl Kathy Selden is Singin’ in the Rain. (Answers were received by Jerry Phillips and Marcia Lacock this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket.)
Since I am out of sync this week, I’m going off on a tangent with a song I heard Louie Flint whistling at the Center. For this week’s “Remember When” question, what comedian/actor is associated with the song “Thanks for the Memory” and for five bonus points in what 1938 movie was the song introduced? E-mail your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788 or drop it off with a picture of Bing Crosby on the road to Bali.
Well, it’s been another week, enjoying the scenic wonders of this beautiful country. Until we meet again, make each day a gift you can’t ignore.
“Learn from yesterday, live for today, look to tomorrow, and rest this afternoon.” Charles Schulz  
Menu for The Dalles Meals-on-Wheels dinners served at noon in Betty’s Diner at the Center.
Wednesday (17) Potato Bar with Chili (Soup and Salad Bar) 
Thursday (18) Roast Beef (Music -Tom Graff)
Friday (19) Meatloaf (Soup and Salad Bar) 
Monday (22) Chicken Fried Steak
Tuesday (23) Buttered Lemon White Fish (Music – Nine String Band)

Aging Well in the Gorge May 9th

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If you have been listening to the news, you know the House Republicans have finally made good on their promise of repealing and replacing the Affordable Care Act – popularly known as Obamacare. But the passage by the House is only the first act of this three-act drama that will affect millions of Americans. Although much of the debate has been focused on providing coverage for pre-existing conditions, there is more in the bill – much of which affects older adults. And from what I can decipher from all the speculation about the bill’s effects, there is both good and bad news for older adults.
The good news is that the Medicare Part D coverage gap (“donut hole”) protections created under Obamacare were not repealed. Since the enactment of Obamacare, more than 11.8 million Medicare beneficiaries have saved over $26.8 billion on prescription drugs.
The bad news is that Medicaid would be cut by $880 billion, or 25%, over 10 years and impose a “per-capita cap” on funding for certain groups including older adults. This is a monumental change and shouldn’t be understated. Since its inception, Medicaid covered any costs if you met the eligibility requirements for the service. But if this bill becomes law, Medicaid will be limited and there will no longer be a guarantee of service.
But what does Medicaid have to do with you? If you are fortunate and have built a nice retirement nest egg – and won’t need long term care such as in-home or nursing home care, probably nothing. But not everyone is sailing that boat.
To emphasize the importance of Medicaid for many older adults, nearly half of all Medicaid spending is for older adults and persons with disabilities which includes covering 60% of all nursing home residents and 40% of costs for long-term care services and supports. That’s a big deal.
But the curtain hasn’t closed. The Senate will undoubtedly make changes, and one can only guess what the final outcome will be. As it winds through Congress, it’s important to follow the legislative process, because for many older adults, the result could determine whether they live with dignity – or not.
After the 1-hour film, there will be a short presentation about various Japanese art exhibitions in the Gallery followed by a Gallery tour. You are asked to RSVP to Kristyn Fix at events@columbiaarts.org or call 541-387-8877 ext. 117. The Columbia Center for the Arts is located at 215 Cascade Avenue in Hood River.
Jan Leininger asked me to announce that the public is invited to the local chapter of the Oregon Retired Educators’ luncheon meeting on Tuesday, May 16th, at the Imperial River Co. in Maupin. The program will feature Linda Oram’s 2000-mile hike on the Pacific Crest Trail last year.  Luncheon reservations must be made with Wilma Townsend, 541-296-4356, by Thursday the 11th.
Shades of Country will be back playing at the Center on Tuesday night, May 23rd. They have found their country groove and are sounding real good. Music starts at 6:30 and is open to all ages. Donations are always appreciated.
The world-renowned comic actor whose career spanned seventy-five years while directing and starring in silent films and eventually “talkies” was Charlie Chaplin. (Answers were received from Betsy Ayres, Marcia Lacock and this week’s randomly selected winner of a quilt raffle ticket, Jerry Philips.)
Continuing with “they-don’t-make-them-like-they-use-to” Hollywood movies, this week’s “Remember When” question is about a 1952 musical/comedy. What was the name of the movie in which Monumental Pictures’ biggest stars, Lina Lamont and Don Lockwood struggled to adapt to “talkies” while Don falls in love with chorus girl Kathy Selden? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or send with the movie The Dancing Cavalier.
Well, it’s been another week, trying to remember to chew before I swallow. Until we meet again, don’t let the sun catch you napping.

“Right now I’m having amnesia and déjà vu at the same time. I think I’ve forgotten this before.” Steven Wright

Aging Well in the Gorge May 2nd 2017

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Get out your paper and pencil, it’s time for a pop quiz.
1) How many Americans have Osteoporosis? 2) How many Americans have low bone density? 3) What percentage of woman will break a bone in their lifetime because of Osteoporosis? 4) What are the three keys to preventing and managing Osteoporosis?
How do you think you did? Because May is Osteoporosis Month, it’s a good time to learn more about why and how to keep our bones strong and healthy. Can you imagine without bones, we would just be a bunch of wrinkled clothes lying crumpled on the floor. But strong, healthy bones provide strength, balance, and support for our bodies, support for our muscles and protection for our internal organs such as our brain and heart.
The good news is that it is never too late to reduce the risk of our bones becoming weak and even breaking, so we can participate in activities such as dancing, golf, tennis and somersaults and jumping jacks and pushups – and now I’m tired!
You can learn more from Erin Haines, Certified Physician’s Assistant at Cascade Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Center, who will be discussing “Osteoporosis: Eat, Drink and Play for Better Bones” at the Center tomorrow, Wednesday, May 3rdfrom 11:00 to 12:00. 
Oh, and before I forget, the answers to the pop quiz are 1.) 10 million, 2.) 44 million, 3.) 50% of women, 4.) Diet, exercise and a healthy lifestyle.
The Mosier Senior Center is hosting a Spring Craft Fair on Saturday, May 6thfrom 10:00 to 4:00 PM. There will be local vendors including handcrafted items, jams, jellies and other tasty treats. Admission is free. And if you haven’t heard, the Mosier Senior Center serves delicious meals every Monday and Wednesday starting at noon. The Mosier Senior Center is located at 501 E 2ndStreet at Mosier Creek Terrace apartments.
If you appreciate local art, you’ll want to visit The Dalles Art Center which is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11:00 – 5:00. Every month they have a new exhibit, and the opening reception for this month’s show “Bold and Diverse” is on Thursday, May 4th from 5:00 to 7:00 PM sponsored by The Friends of the Gorge and hosted by Jill Durow. And if you are looking for activities to keep the grandkids busy this summer, the Art Center is offering more classes than ever. But you’ll need to register ASAP, because there is limited space and classes fill up fast.
SoulCollage will NOT be held on May 8th at the Center but will be back on May 22ndfrom 10:00 to 11:00.
Martin and Friends will be playing at the Center’s Tuesday Night Music on May 9th. It is a great time to stretch your legs and get moving to some nice live country western sounds. Music starts at 6:30 and is open to everyone whether you enjoy the “Texas two-step” or a “country waltz”. And donations are appreciated.
Best quote of the week from Virginia McClain which many of us can relate to. “I don’t have to worry about the side effects of my new pill – I already have them all.”
The name of the CBS television show that aired from 1967 to 1969 and pushed the boundaries of television satire was the Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour. (Answers were received from Tina Castanares, Jim Ayres, Deloris Schrader, and this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket, Tiiu Vahtel.)
For this month’s “Remember When” questions, I’m moving from television to Hollywood movies starting off with a comic actor whose career spanned more than seventy-five years. In 1914, he started performing his famous character in films and by 1918 was one of the best-known figures in the world. He continued directing and starring in silent films, and in the 1930’s when movies were transitioning to “talkies”, he bucked the trend producing two critically acclaimed silent films City Lights and Modern Times. Who was this comic actor? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or send with a picture of Jackie Coogan in The Kid.
Well, it’s been another week, watching good ideas pass through my mind but never wanting to stop and chat. Until we meet again, look around and find something to tickle you funny bone.
“Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will make me go in a corner and cry by myself for hours.” Eric Idle

Aging Well in the Gorge April 25th 2017

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It was a busy weekend with The Dalles Chamber of Commerce putting on three days of Cherry Festival fun. But now it is time for the chamber crew to get a little rest and the rest of us back to drawing board figuring out how to make the best of each day.
And speaking of days ahead, there are several events scheduled at the Center for the month of May
Starting off the month to commemorate May as National Osteoporosis Month, Erin Haines, Certified Physician’s Assistant at Cascade Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Center will explain how to keep your bones healthy and how to avoid Osteoporosis at the Center on May 3rd from 11:00 – 12:00.
SoulCollage lead by Clyde Santa will continue on May 8th and 22nd starting at 10:00.SoulColage is a process for learning more about yourself and help you with life’s questions and transitions by creating cards with personal meaning.
The Center will once again host the Relay for Life Parking Lot Sale on Saturday May 13th from 8:00 – 3:00 PM.
And if you ever heard the song “Art, what is it good for. Absolutely, everything!” Maybe that isn’t the song, but it is a good point. And you can learn more Arts and Visual Perception at the Center on May 30th 1:30 PM. This colorful and entertaining 90-minute presentation explores the nature of seeing through art with instructor Kerry Cobb, Executive Director at the Columbia Center for the Arts. Using art as a platform, you’ll discover ways to sharpen your awareness and be more observant of your environment, and learn ways to interact more enjoyably with art. Participants will also be challenged with some fun interactive activities. You might be able to walk away with “virgin” eyes.
I would like to offer several more classes this summer or in the fall. I’m looking for instructors for several classes such as Smartphone Photography; Writing Your Life Story or “What was it like back your day, grandma?”; and to facilitate a group on How to Create Your Next Life (curriculum provided by Life Reimagined.). These are short commitments, and if you are interested in any of these subjects call or email me and I will help get a class started.
Many folks have been asking about the Center. This last week we made some visible progress by framing in the lounge and then sheet rocking both the lounge and Nu-2-U Shop. A door, paint and new flooring, and presto in about three weeks the lounge and Nu-2-U shop just might be open again.
I recently read in the New York Times about a new study that was published in Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience where researchers looked at the effects of different types of exercise on the functioning of an older person’s brain.
the researchers randomly divided the volunteers into several groups. One began a supervised program of brisk walking for an hour three times a week. Another started a regimen of supervised gentle stretching and balance training three times a week, and the third group practiced increasingly difficult country dances three times a week for an hour.
What some might consider surprising, but encouraging having fun learning country dances with friends showed the greatest benefit suggesting that engaging in activities that involve moving and socializing might help slow down aging effects on the brain.
The Shades of Country will be back again for Tuesday Night Music at the Center and their getting into their country groove and sounding good. Music starts at 6:30 and donations are appreciated to feed the band and keep the lights on.
The name of the CBS show hosted by Garry Moore that was a take-off of What’s My Line?, but instead of celebrity panelists trying to determine a contestant’s occupation, the panel tries to guess the contestant’s secret was I’ve Got A Secret.(I didn’t receive any answers last week. We’ll see if this week’s question tickles your fancy.)
For this month I’ve asked questions about a western, a comedy and a game show from the 50’s and 60’s. To finish the month of April, this week’s “Remember When” question is about a popular but controversial variety show. What was the name of the comedy and variety television show that aired on CBS from 1967 to 1969, appealed to the younger generation at the time, and its socially relevant humor pushed the boundaries of television satire creating regular conflicts with the CBS censors?
Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or mail it with the sounds of Classical Gas.
Well, it’s been another week, trying to remember what day it is. Until we meet again, whether you have the energy or not, give it your best shot.

“I intend to live forever. So far, so good.” Demetri Martin

Aging Well in the Gorge April 18th 2017

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You can’t be bored this coming weekend, because its “Once Upon a Cherry” time! Thanks to the Dalles Chamber of Commerce, there will be plenty to do uring this year’s Cherry Festival including spotting your friends in the Gorge’s biggest parade starting at 10:00 AM on Saturday. But before the parade, come by the Center and enjoy a good old fashioned breakfast sponsored by our neighbors, Cherry Heights Living. Breakfast incudes pancakes, bacon, scrambled eggs, fruit and juice or coffee, all for $6.00 and $3.00 if you are 12 or younger. Breakfast is served starting at 7:30 so you can have time to eat before the 8:00 coronation of this year’s King Bing and Queen Anne: Chuck Sandoz and his sister, Mary Leighton.
As with Dan and Kay Erickson, and Dennis and Shannon Morgan, the previous year’s royalty, Chuck Sandoz and Mary Leighton represent what is best about The Dalles by contributing to the economic health of the area while also giving back to the community. Congratulations to Chuck and Mary!
And if you want to have fun AND a chance to win some cash, stop by the Center for Saturday Night Bingo where over $1200 is paid out every night. (Last Saturday, a lucky winner took home $1000 – and that was in addition to the over $1000 paid out to other winners during the evening.) Bingo starts at 6:00, but new players are encouraged to arrive by 5:30. Minimum buy-in is $10.
I’m still trying to figure out what I want to be when I grow up – and I know, I had better hurry because time is running out. But even though you may have figured that out long ago, you may still be on life’s journey of trying to better understand yourself, whether it is accepting who you are with all the complexity of being human; working through losses you have experienced over time; or acknowledging and honoring the contributions you have made.
One way to understand and express who you are is by of creating your own SoulCollage facilitated by Clyde Santa. SoulCollage is described as a process for accessing your intuition and creating cards with deep personal meaning that will help you with life’s questions and transitions.
Last month in the Chronicle, you may have read about the SoulCollage workshop Clyde held at the Library. But if you missed the workshop, Clyde will be offering it once again at the Center on Tuesday April 24th, May 8th and 22nd. It’s preferred that you attend all three sessions of the workshop, but it’s not required. The workshop is open to all ages, with all materials provided and no art experience necessary. And for you folks who avoid anything “artsy”, I’ll say it again. NO ART EXPERIENCE necessary! The workshop is free, but donations are gratefully accepted.
If you thought last week’s music announcement was too easy to read, I’m stepping it up a notch. See if your billions of grey cells can figure out this week’s music announcement.
Siht gnimoc Yadseut thgin ereht lliw TON eb cisum ta eht Retnec. I ma llits gnikool rof rehtona dnab ot llif ni rof eht htruof Yadseut tols. Os fi uoy nac daer siht dna yalp ratiug ta eht emas emit, llac em dna ew’ll ees fi ew nac enil uoy pu rof a gig (taht’s naicisum gnals – I kniht) ta eht Retnec.
The name of the television show about the adventures of widow Lily Ruskin, played by Spring Byington, that aired on CBS from 1954 to 1959 was December Bride. (Answers were received from Margaret McBride, Virginia McClain, and the randomly selected winner of a quilt raffle ticket, Delores Schrader, who wishes we still had television shows like it.)
Sticking with television during the 50’s and 60’s, this week’s “Remember When” question is about game shows. What was the name of the CBS show that was a take-off of What’s My Line?, but instead of celebrity panelists trying to determine a contestant’s occupation, the panel tries to determine something that is unusual about the contestant? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or mail it with autographed pictures of the original host and panelists: Garry Moore, Bill Cullen, Henry Morgan, Faye Emerson and Jayne Meadows.
Well, it’s been another week, hoping for a dry, pleasant weekend. Until we meet again, I’ll see you at the Cherry Festival.  

“The art of living lies in the fine mingling of letting go and holding on.” Havelock Ellis

Aging Well in the Gorge April 11th 2017

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It is often said, “Nothing remains constant except change itself.” But why do we resist change particularly as older adults who have a reputation of being stick-in-the muds, averse to any kind of change?
According to Rosabeth Moss Kanter, a professor at the Harvard Business School, there are many reasons why people of all ages resist change. See if any of these reasons feel familiar.
First, change often creates uncertainty – often interrupting our routines which we find comforting because we know what to expect. Every morning I have my regular routine for eating breakfast and taking my pills.  But when I go on vacation, the routine changes, and it is difficult to adjust.
Second, change creates concerns about our own competence. Take technology. There is always some new “latest and greatest” software update to learn. And you just figured out the previous version!
Third, change creates more work – which takes time and energy. Although you may have the time, do you have the energy? With the kids moved out, it is time for my wife and I to move to a smaller house, but I always reconsider when I think of all the work it would take.
Fourth, a loss of control. If you decide what to change, that’s okay, you’re in control. But when the change happens to you that is another story. And that seems to happen more often when you get older, as your family, friends or doctors start telling you where you should live, when you can drive and what you should eat.
But change is inevitable. And embracing change even with all the reasons to resist: more uncertainty, feelings of incompetence, more work and loss of control, change can help you continue to live a full and productive life. And having seen all the tremendous changes over your lifetime from types of television sets to personal cancer treatments, would you really want to go back to those “golden” years? Okay, maybe you don’t have to answer that question!  
After this past terrible, horrible, no good winter, more folks have decided to get their bodies moving by attending the Center’s movement and exercise classes. The classes are affordable and all you have to do to join the fun is show up. The classes include: Tai Chi on Tuesdays from 1:15 – 2:00 taught by Corliss Marsh, Line and Folk Dancing on Thursdays from 10:15 – 11:30 taught by Jacquie Hashizume, Strong Women on Tuesdays and Thursdays taught by Sally Forester, and Zumba Gold on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:45 – 11:30 taught by Marsha Morrison. Also, Debra Lutje teaches two classes: Chair Yoga on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:15- 10:30 and Strength Yoga on Wednesdays from 9:30 – 10:30.
Besides helping your brain by exercising, you can also challenge your brain by reading this week’s Saturday Night music announcement – backwards. And you don’t even have to get out of your chair.
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In the television series, Gunsmoke, the name of the woman who was the owner of the Long Branch Saloon and with whom Matt Dillion had a close personal relationship was Miss Kitty. (Answers were received from Vicki Sallee, Alice Mattox, Johnie Douglas, Jim Ayres and the randomly selected winner of a quilt raffle ticket, Don Smith.)
Sticking to television during the 50’s and 60’s, this week’s “Remember When” question is not about a western but a television sitcom (which I don’t remember because I was more interested in Saturday morning cartoons) that aired on CBS from 1954 to 1959.  But if your memory is better, what was the name of the television show about the adventures of widow Lily Ruskin played by Spring Byington, that for first four seasons followed I Love Lucy? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or mail it with a picture of next-door neighbor Pete Porter played by Harry Morgan, who in 1960 starred in his own show Pete and Gladys.
Well, it’s been another week, sorting through all my spring clothes. Until we meet again, I know it’s spring because the ants have returned to the kitchen counter.  

“Change is inevitable, except from a vending machine.” Robert C. Gallagher

Aging Well in the Gorge April 4th 2017

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A friend from southern Wasco County once told me there are three stages in life: a time when you do what you are told, a time when you do what you think you should do and the final stage: when you can do what you really want to do.
During your retirement years, you have the time to start doing what you want to do: travel more, reconnect with past hobbies or start new ones, or just spend more time with the grandkids.
But among all those competing interests, I would encourage you to find time to volunteer, not because it is something you should do, but because it can be as rewarding and fun as any cruise to the Caribbean.
You have probably heard why you should volunteer: chance to make new friends, keeps you mentally sharp, or just gets you out of the house. The evidence is clear that volunteering is good for your health and well-being.
Nonetheless, what do you want to do?
Recently, there have been several excellent articles in the Chronicle about volunteering. At the Center, we have lost three volunteers. For them volunteering was not a “should do”, but a desire to do something they truly enjoyed, whether it was teaching a dance class, tending the rose garden or helping at the front desk.
So, if you decide that volunteering is something you want to do, how do find the right place? Here are a few tips that could help in your search.
1.) Look for a group that deals with a subject which you strongly care about. Could it be politics, arts, or mentoring young people?
2.) Consider your special talents and look for a volunteer opportunity which can utilize them. Have you managed projects? Do you enjoy meeting strangers? 
3.) Or if you are tired of doing the same old thing, find a volunteer opportunity where you have a chance to develop new skills. 
4.) Think outside the box! There are probably community groups looking for volunteers you haven’t even thought of. 
5.) When you find an organization, check it out by requesting an interview to make sure it matches your interest and skills. 
6.) Find the volunteer activity that fits your schedule. Is it seasonal so you can still winter in Arizona? Is it a short term or long term commitment? 
7.) Start by volunteering with friends. It can help make the transition into a new volunteer position more comfortable. 
8.) Don’t wait to be asked. Find a place to volunteer and go for it!
Sometimes we are too modest, but everyone has skills and abilities that non-profit organizations need. And I know, if you want to volunteer, there is a place for you.
A fascinating free workshop will be presented at The Dalles Public Library on Thursday, April 7th from 1:00 – 3:00 PM. SoulCollage offers you a chance to create a card with personal meaning while building intuition and wisdom. And it is simple, easy and fun. All materials are provided and absolutely no art experience is necessary. It is free but donations are gratefully appreciated.
As a reminder, Betty Harlan’s Celebration of Life will be held at the Mid-Columbia Senior on Saturday April 8th from 11:00 – 3:00. Lunch will be provided and donations to Meals-on-Wheels will be accepted.
Performing for the Center’s Tuesday Night Music on April 10thwill be Martin and Friends. Doors open at 6:00, music starts at 6:30 and donations are appreciated.
The brand of small die-cast toys first introduced by Lesney Products in the 1950’s and were designed for the co-owner’s daughter because her school only allowed children to bring toys that could fit inside a matchbox were, you guessed it, Matchbox Toys. (The winner of a quilt raffle ticket is Virginia McClain.)
For this month’s “Remember When” questions, the focus is television from the 50’s and 60’s starting with the western which became a hit genre in a large part due to the success of the long running television series, Gunsmoke – one of the first adult westerns. In that television series, what was the name of the woman with whom Matt Dillion had a close personal relationship, although the two never married? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or mail it with a picture of the Long Branch Saloon.
Well, it’s been another week, grateful for every passing day. Until we meet again, sometimes if you want to get from one shore to another, you have to build your own boat.   

Aging Well in the Gorge March 28th 2017

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Did you hear about the three guys sitting in a bus shelter: The first says “Windy, ain’t it?” The second answers, “No it’s not, it’s Thursday.” And then the third eagerly adds, “So am I. Let’s go and have a drink!”
Even with my hearing aids, that type of conversation is all too common in my household, and to put it mildly, it drives my wife nuts. But I’ve learned when I have trouble with my hearing aids, it is often because they need cleaning. And one of the major culprits is that nasty, embarrassing earwax – because like cats and dogs, hearing aids and earwax do not play well together when the wax clogs the hearing aid’s microphones or receivers causing poor performance.
But if ear wax is a problem for my hearing aids, wouldn’t a preventive solution be to use Q-tips to clean my ears? Nope. The best advice is the adage you may have heard: “Put nothing in your ear that is smaller than your elbow.” Inserting Q-tips, or any sharp or pointed object into the ear will only push wax further into the canal and may even cause trauma to the canal wall or eardrum. Instead just leave the wax alone, which is formed in the outer part of the canal near the external opening, and it will naturally migrate out of the ear.
In fact, it is not a bad thing to have wax in your ears – unless there is too much wax causing pain, drainage, bleeding or hearing loss. Ear wax actually play an important role protecting the ear by trapping and preventing dust, bacteria, and other germs from entering and damaging the ear; and protecting the delicate skin of the ear canal from getting irritated by water in the canal. To clear the unsightly earwax, simply use a washcloth or tissue to wipe the outer ear after you bathe or shower.
Besides keeping earwax from clogging your hearing aids, you can help keep your hearing aids functioning properly by doing the following: clean the hearing aids regularly with a soft, dry cloth; check batteries – they should last from one to two weeks; minimize moisture in the hearing aids; and something I never heard before, use a listening tube to ensure your hearing aids sound clear and not weak or scratchy.
Because functional hearing is critical to an active and engaging lifestyle, take proper care of your hearing aids. And make sure to schedule regular appointments with your hearing professional to test your hearing and to check the performance of your hearing aids. Because, trust me, if you can avoid it, you don’t want to be the one to drive your spouse or friends nuts!
How do you feel about dancing? Would you agree with James Brown, the “Godfather of Soul”, who said “The one thing that can solve most of our problems is dancing.” Or Christopher Morley who thought dancing was an important life lesson. “Dancing is wonderful training for girls. It’s the first way you learn to guess what a man is going to do before he does it.” But if you are a little self-conscious, all you need is Dave Barry’s advice “Nobody cares if you can’t dance well. Just get up and dance.”
If you like to get up and dance, there are many opportunities in the Gorge including at the Center’s Tuesday Night Music. Performing this coming Tuesday, April 3rd will be Shades of Country, and on April 10th, Martin and Friends will be playing. Music starts at 6:30 and donations are appreciated.
The job that required operating a desk top machine that punched holes on stiff paper cards to store information was a keypunch operator. (I had two correct entries: Tina Castanares and the randomly selected winner of a quilt raffle ticket, Marcia Lacock.)
This brand of toy was first introduced in the 1950’s and because it was inexpensive enough for children to afford, it became the household word for small model toy cars. For this week’s “Remember When” question what was the biggest-selling brand of small diecast model cars and trucks until Mattel introduced the Hot Wheels series in 1968? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or mail it with a Superfast No 9 AMX Javelin in Blue.

Well, it’s been another week, trying to keep my balance in an unbalanced world. Until we meet again, I know it must be spring when Bruce Harris of Today’s Rays comes to turn on the Center’s irrigation system.  

Aging Well in the Gorge

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Many friends tell me they read the Chronicle every day, not for the local news and great sports reporting, but to see if their name is in the obituaries. Although I don’t know anyone who has found their own name, unfortunately, we do find the names of many of our friends.
Death is a difficult subject. But when we check the obituaries, we become more familiar with death as we are reminded our existence on this earth doesn’t last forever. Death no longer is a nightmare experienced in our youth, but becomes a reality with which we struggle to come to terms with in our own way. Learning of friends who have passed away becomes a part of life. And no matter how difficult, somehow, we learn to live with our loss and to keep living.
Over the past two weeks we have lost several people who in their own special ways have contributed significantly to the Center.
Ardyce Edling was the inspiration for the tap and clogging class that she taught at the Center for I don’t know how many years because she was teaching it when I arrived at the Center ten years ago. She was still teaching the class, when they celebrated her 90th birthday, and I thought if I can be that active at 90, I will have had a good life.  
We also lost David Zopf. David, with his wife Nancy, was a faithful driver for Meals-on-Wheels, as well as spending hours taking care of the grounds around the Center – particularly the rose garden. You would often see him trimming the roses and bushes on the weekends. When he saw something that needed to be done, he would just do it. David had a dry sense of humor and when he talked to me, I was often uncomfortable, because I wasn’t smart enough to tell if he was teasing or if he was serious and I had better shape up.
Then to make bad things worse, Betty Harlan also passed away. She was an integral part of the success of Meals-on-Wheels including director – even before Meals-on-Wheels moved to its present location at the Center in 1987. She was also the Center’s interim director when I arrived ten years ago. When she retired, she couldn’t stay away – volunteering her time working at the check-in table for Meals-on-Wheels and as an afternoon receptionist for the Center. And Betty didn’t stop volunteering when she could no longer walk comfortably and was confined to a wheelchair.
It has been an inspiration to have known Ardyce, David and Betty. It is comforting to know they lived a good life – with determination, purpose and compassion, making The Dalles a much better place. In the back of our minds we knew this time would come, but it is still a sad surprise. The Center and Meals-on-Wheels will truly miss them.
If you enjoy listening or dancing to live local music, stop by the Center on Tuesday Nights, when the Simcoe Boys will be performing on March 21st. The doors open at 6:00, music starts at 6:30 and donations are always appreciated.
The name for a mechanical instrument used to compute mathematical problems that looked similar to a ten-inch ruler (but I also learned came in circular models) was the slide rule. (It must be hard to forget those math classes, because I received a slew of correct answers from: Bernie Sleep, Lucille and Harold Stephens, Sandy and Bob Haechrel, Lana Tepfer, Ed Anghilante, Jerry Phillips, Sonja Peterson and Kathy Shebley, who is this week’s randomly drawn winner of a quilt raffle ticket.)
But this week I’m moving from science to romance. Back in the 60’s, I found dating wasn’t easy for me during high school. But to assist in that extracurricular activity, my friends and I would wear one of the popular colognes – back when fragrances weren’t discouraged because of allergic reactions. For this week’s “Remember When” question, what was your favorite cologne or perfume during your high school or college days? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or mail it with a bottle of Jade East, my favorite cologne.
Well, it’s been another week, trying to adjust to the time change. Until we meet again, as Leonard Cohen once sang, “There is a crack in everything. That’s how the light gets in.”

 “It’s not that I’m afraid to die. I just don’t want to be there when it happens.” Woody Allen