Whistelstop Express April 2019

whistlestop.org April 2019 Marin’s Older Adult Community Connection Since 1954

Pg 3: The Gift of Giving Back Pg 10: A Noble Artisan Pg 11: Team Community Beautification

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Volunteers Make a Difference

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WHISTLESTOP PERSPECTIVE

By Laurie Vermont

My Kind of Community

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n honor of National Volunteer Week, April 7-13, I have been thinking about how and why people volunteer.

Many people want to help, but where do you begin and what should you do? There are so many causes vying for your attention it can be difficult to decide where best to direct your energy and time.

For example, I have always been politically active. I studied Political Science in college thinking I would make it a career and change the world. I got sidetracked for a while with another exciting career, but for the past 20 years I have been focused on making an impact in my community and the

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people I live and work with.

Rather than looking at making changes at the top, I asked two questions: “What am I interested in?” and “How can I help my community while meeting people and having fun in the process?”

Using my production and event planning background, I began helping at my son’s school for their special events. Then I branched out to other organizations, eventually finding a path that involved organizing and motivating other volunteers to work on these projects.

There is something that everyone can do and you do not have to have specific skills to make an impact.

ACTIVE AGING CENTER 930 Tamalpais Avenue | San Rafael, CA 94901 Open Monday-Friday 9:00AM-5:00PM Website: whistlestop.org | Email: info@whistlestop.org Guest Services Reception | 415-456-9062 ext. 100 Volunteer Opportunities | 415-456-9067 Resource Office | 415-459-6700 Covia Home Match & Social Call | 415-456-9068

JACKSON CAFÉ Monday-Friday | 11:30AM to 2:00PM

LIKE US on Facebook! facebook.com/WhistlestopMarin

The late, great Martin Luther King, Jr. said: “Everybody can be great, because anybody can serve.

You don’t have to have a college degree to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and your verb agree to serve…. You don’t have to know the second theory of thermodynamics in physics to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.”

This month, I would like to salute the 300+ volunteers who have served Whistlestop in various capacities this past year.

Please note their names and number of hours they gave to support the programs and services of Whistlestop on page four.

Laurie Vermont

When it comes to volunteering, I believe this quote says what I have discovered to be true: “Volunteering is the ultimate exercise in democracy. You vote in elections once a year, but when you volunteer, you vote every day about the kind of community you want to live in”. ~Author Unknown I challenge you to help build the kind of community you want to be part of and live in.

MEAL DELIVERY SERVICES

WHISTLESTOP EXPRESS

Whistlestop Nourish | 415-456-9062 ext. 176 Meals on Wheels Eligibility (Marin County) | 415-457-4636

Kelly Krueger Thomas, Whistlestop Express Editor 415-235-5031 | kelly@kruegerpr.com

TRANSPORTATION SERVICES

Jennifer Golbus, Marketing & Communications Director jgolbus@whistlestop.org

CarePool Volunteer Driver Program | 415-454-0927 Travel Navigators/Marin Access Eligibility | 415-454-0902 Schedule a Paratransit Ride | 415-454-0964 Cancel a Paratransit Ride | 415-457-4630

OUR MISSION Whistlestop believes we share a responsibility to ensure all Marin residents have an opportunity to age with dignity, independence and grace.

Want to receive the Express at home? Send $10 to Whistlestop for an annual delivered print subscription, or sign up at whistlestop.org for a free email version.

PACIFIC SUN STAFF Rosemary Olson, Publisher | rolson@pacificsun.com Kara Brown, Production | kara@metroactive.com

TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CONTACT: Danielle McCoy, Advertising | dmccoy@pacificsun.com Marianne Misz, Advertising | mmisz@pacificsun.com

Cover photo by Stephanie Mohan

MEALS ON WHEELS AND WHISTLESTOP NOURISH TEAM:

Why do you volunteer?

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histlestop drivers deliver meals to more than 300 homebound older adults each Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.

Some of our wonderful volunteers recently shared what they enjoy most about giving their time to the organization.

“I’m retired and I have a lot of free time. Using my free time to help other people makes me feel Lee Spiegel good. It’s something we all should be doing.”

“I look forward every week to Wednesday morning when I deliver Jim Koger meals to those in need. Sometimes I am the only person they see all day and it brings me so much joy to help.”

“I have the time and want to give back to people who really need help. I had a friend -- who was Bob Valentino a shut-in – and I believe that Meals on Wheels helped extend his life! Delivering meals for others in a similar

situation gives me a sense of fulfillment. It’s remarkable how many people live in such a rich county yet have almost nothing.”

“We are both retired and for the past five years it has brought us so much joy to deliver Kathy & Dale food and Mullen bring a smile to someone’s face.

We enjoy talking to people, sharing stories, and finding out more about them. It’s a small thing we do, but the people we help are so appreciative and it’s very fulfilling to see their spirits lifted.”

THE BENEFITS OF VOLUNTEERING own health and happiness in the process.

New friends and family.

Volunteering is a great way to meet new people and make new friends, especially if you’re new to the area. It can also keep your social skills in tip-top shape.

A great workout for mind, body and spirit. Studies

have proven that volunteering

can significantly reduce stress, anger and anxiety and fight depression, which is common among older people, especially those who enjoyed working with others in the years before retirement. It goes without saying that you’ll also get some great exercise, even if you have mobility issues.

A sense of purpose.

Volunteering gives you a reason

Interested in becoming a Whistlestop home delivered meals volunteer? For this, or other volunteer opportunities, contact Laurie at volunteer@whistlestop.org, call 415-456-9067 or stop by our monthly volunteer fair at 3pm on the second Thursday of each month.

to get up in the morning. It can renew your creativity, give you a more positive outlook and make you feel more energetic.

It’s also a wonderful way to learn new skills, and as we all know, it’s never too late to learn something new in life.

If you have some time on your hands, Whistlestop will be happy to help you find the perfect volunteer opportunity. Contact our volunteer programs manager Laurie at volunteer@whistlestop.org or call 415-456-9067 to learn more.

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Volunteering is not only a great way to give back to your community, but give to yourself as well. Helping others can reduce stress, fight depression, keep the mind sharp and connect you to the community.

It doesn’t matter whether you have just a few hours to spare or all the time in the world. Giving the gift of your time and talents not only helps those who need a helping hand but improves your

“I volunteer because I am retired, have the time and it’s the right thing to do. I heard Greg Schreader about Whistlestop through my children who volunteered through their school. I love connecting with people and seeing how happy they are to see me when I knock on their door every week.”

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Thank You Whistlestop Volunteers!

In honor of National Volunteer Month, we’d like to recognize and thank the 320 volunteers who have given almost 22,000 hours of time, expertise and service to Whistlestop’s programs and activities during this past year. This contribution has a value of $550,000 to Whistlestop!

We thank you from the bottom of our

!

Hours of Volunteer Service from February 1, 2018 – January 31, 2019 492 414 321 315 313 294 287 275 256 256 247 245 239 234 234 232 231 217 209 204

Jean Harrison Richard Jenkins Arnold Luber Nancy Malcolm David Ripp Richard Violet Mehrbanoo Esmaili Rabel Mangahas David Levy Janis Walsh Sandy Haevernick Barbara Olson John Kampmeyer Lee Loretz Lee Spiegel Stephanie DalPorto David Brusati Karen Raccanello Maria Flores Diaz Judith Arago

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150 – 200 Hours Carol Costa Jane Day Christina Fisher Janice Fong James Koger Fira Kriventsov Jim Kunz Theani Louskos John Noren Debra Ragsdale Elizabeth Schaffer Michael Vaughn Beverly Windle

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100 – 150 Hours Georgia Anker Madeleine Antonio Margy Ayotte Barbara Begley Marlene Bonham Carol Braddock Helen Cameron Mary Caruso Frank Cassou Elsa Castellani

Donna Childers Tom Curtin Roger Diehnel Dolores Duarte Susan Duncan Bill Edelen Neil Edwards Kathy Evers Robert Fithian Joyce Gordon Edward Greenberg Ann Haenggi Lee Heagerty Patrick Heagerty Beverly Houston Molly Hynes Kris Karlsson Cecelia Kudlick Elizabeth Lynn Doris McKee Terry McKinney Linda Miller Mary Ann Muirhead Karen Noreen Blair Ogden Gloria Perdue Laurie Peterson James Poindexter Ginny Preston Joey Robinow Fred Ruhland Daisy Sagebiel Gregory Schilz Tom Schmidt Winston Searles Edward Sempliner Jane Summers Steven Travers Dirk VanWaart Desiree Vaughn Bill Wagner Rich Walcoff Diane Yates Paula Zand

50 – 100 Hours Joseph Adams Glenn Axworthy Alvin Bailey Cameron Brugler Terry Chostner Anne Courtney Hardy Dawainis June Detjen Roberta Dillon Andy Garcia Dennis Gray Betsy Guthrie Ronald Hagen John Hauserman Lynne Hayes Christy Hayes Gillian Hayward Bill Healy Annemarie Hellmann Karen Howard Jill Hutchinson Karyn Kennedy Susan Kerr Ted Kreines Bill Lawler Vincent Lazzarini Vicky Loel Katherine Look Bea Lott Kelly Lynch Vivian Malcy Herta McCready Daniel McKay Amy Metzenbaum Roberta Michels Douglas Milani Gayle Moore Kelly Moore Phoebe Moyer Dale Mullen Kathy Mullen Pam Munter Sue Nelson Lotus Ning Lori Noack Lynn Parkman

Josefina Perez Sue Poinsett Nick Rozsa Howard Schwartz Bhuvana Seshadri Miriam Silver Kailyn Story Orville Teising Monique Turner Janna Ullrey Bob Valentino Bill Walton Ladonna Wood Susan Woodrum 25 – 50 Hours James Appenrodt Wayne Baker Jennifer Beament Nicholas Beament Roberta Blank Dana Brewer Julie Burford William Clarke Jessie Conlin Christine D'Ambra Marcy Dubova Marilyn Englander Lenore Fithian Alejandro Garcia Martha Giblas Trystan Gunn Anh Ho Stephanie Kyne Erin Leight Victor Low David MacLam Matt MacPhee Laurence Margetich Penny Markrack Catherine Miller Andrew Murdock Michael Navone Margaret O'Hanlon Stevan Olian William Peden Theresa Rodriguez

Ann Seramin Susan Stanford Lucy Tsao Amaya Viera Todd Wiedenmayer Sonya Woo Under 25 Hours Joanna Abrams Joy Appleby Crystal Baker Kelsey Baker Barbara Banks Mary Barbosa Rita Becker Bruce Bennett Laura Bertolli Virginia Boracchia Nancie Bottmeyer Sonja Botha Mauritz Botha Linda Bradley Melissa Bradley Beau Branigan Connie Braun Mary Brooks Ron Brown Kathy Budzinski Norm Buller Aileen Carew David Champagne Ernesto Chavez Alicia Chin Claudia Chittenden Julia Chu Roberto Couoh Jerry Courtade Tinille Crichfield June Davis Tamara Dee Ray DeLeon Terry Descalso Irma Diaz Roger Douglas Milena Dixon Natalia Dixon Will Dixon (father)

Will Dixon (son) Michael Duff Lisa Dunlap AJ Filley Brown Andrea Francone Julie Freccero Diego Freitas Rebeca Garcia Susan Garcia David Hanchette Patti Hedges Clay Howard Whitney Hoyt Nanette Jacobs Christina Kan-Duley Kay Karchevski Janice Knight Charlotte Kobayashi Jan Kohnhorst Miranda Kolbe Larry Kreshin Judy Lampear Frederic Leroi Suni Levi Rita Lewis Elizabeth MacQuarrie Dan Maguire Carol Maley Arlene Margetich Laura Martin Richard Martin Brenda Martinez-Puente Sarah Mays-salin Andy McGuire Greg McQuinn Anna Melillo Sharman Milani Ann Moran Judith Morris Scott Muldavin Kasja Murphy Gloria Neumeier Paula Nichols Linnea O'brien Cindy Ostroff Bonnie Page Terry Peck

Judy Peltz Ann Pierson Stacey Pogorzelski Aleksandra Polikina Doug Pringle Kiara Renderos Rhea Renderos Harriet Reynolds Jason Reynolds Alta Ridley Frank Ridley Nancy Riess Bob Rigler Bobbe Rigler Lori Rooney Manuela Rosenfeld Kristan Ruona Jim Sauve Greg Schreader Valerie Shearer Kerri Schultz Linda Siegel Beth Sinclair Sandy Slater Martin Sleath Sarah Spector Edith Struss Jean Stumpf Vida Sullivan Genesis Tabarne Linda Tarantino Karyn Taylor Craig Thigpen DeeAnne Thom Jeannie Thomas William Tichy Linda Tichy Billy Tupai Una Tzortzis Theo Vermont Marcel Voelz Eliza Warde John Ware Beverly Winsor

A special thank you to the Whistlestop Board of Directors. These community leaders give countless hours advising and guiding us through our daily work. They help us navigate the best path as demand for our services continues to grow: Dennis Ryan, President • Beth Reizman, Vice President • Tom Bonomi, Treasurer • Fabia Butler, Secretary Directors: Sharon Jackson • Bob Sonnenberg • Cynthia Wuthmann Much appreciation to the Whistlestop Angels led by Jeri Dexter who fundraise to help support our programs and services.

BECOME A WHISTLESTOP VOLUNTEER!

Learn more at the monthly Volunteer Fair held on the 2nd Thursday of each month from 3:00 – 4:30pm. Contact:

930 Tamalpais Avenue | San Rafael | whistlestop.org

HAPPENINGS@WHISTLESTOP

WEEKLYACTIVITIES

FRIDAYS

COMPUTER

EXERCISE

LANGUAGE

INFO

MISC

TIME

CLASS

FEE

9:45AM-10:45AM 10:00AM–NOON 10:30AM-NOON 10:30AM-NOON 11:00AM-NOON 12:30PM-1:45PM 2:00PM-3:30PM 9:30–10:30AM 10:00AM–NOON 11:30AM–12:30PM 1:00PM–3:00PM 3:00PM-4:00PM 1:00PM-2:00PM 3:00PM-4:00PM 9:30AM-12:30PM 10:00AM-11:30AM 10:00AM-NOON 10:00AM–NOON 10:30AM-NOON 11:15AM-12:15PM 12:30PM-1:30PM 2:00PM-3:30PM 3:30PM-4:45PM 9:00AM-10:00AM 9:30AM-10:30AM 10:00AM-11:00AM 11:00AM-1:00PM 11:00AM-NOON 12:30PM-1:30PM 1:00PM-2:00PM 1:00PM–2:30PM 2:00PM-3:00PM 9:00AM-10:00AM 10:30AM-NOON 10:30AM-NOON 11:00AM–NOON 1:30PM-3:00PM 2:00PM–4:00PM 3:00PM-4:00PM

Zumba Gold Drop-in $6/8 Computer Lab Drop-in Free German Social Group Drop-in Free Persian Social Group Drop-in Free Tai Chi Drop-in $8/10 Russian Social Group Drop-in Free ESL 100, 150, 250 Register $40/45 Whistlesizers Drop-in $4/5 Mah-Jongg Drop-in Free French All Levels Drop-in $3/5 Spanish 2 Drop-in $3/5 Spanish 1 Drop-in $3/5 French Social Group Drop-in Free Too Much Stuff?

Register Free Monthly Food Box 4/17 Register Free Senior Circle 4/3 Drop-in Free Beginning Mah-Jongg (Max. 8) Register $3/$5 Computer Lab Drop-in Free Persian Social Group Drop-in Free Beginner Ukulele Register $40/45 Inter. Ukulele Register $40/45 ESL 100, 150, 250 Register $40/45 Citizenship Exam Tutoring Register $35/$40 Rollin’ Root Farmers’ Market Shake Up Your Mornings w/ Carol Drop-in $6/8 Italian 1 (Max. 10) Register $30/35 Open Art Drop-in Whistlesizers Drop-in $4/5 Italian 3 Register $30/35 Italian Study Group Drop-in $2/4 Adv. Write Your Life Stories Prerequisite required $20/30 Italian 2 Register $30/35 Community Breakfast 4/5 Drop-in $3/6 CalFresh 4/5 & 4/19 (415)697-7411 Free BrightStar Health Check 4/12 & 4/26 Drop-in Free Brown Bag Pantry Register at 11:30 am Free Spanish Social Group Drop-in Free Ping-Pong Drop-in $2/4 Yoga with Kelly Drop-in $3/5

ONGOING

EVENTS

For a full list of classes, visit whistlestop.org/classes/ calendar or call 415-456-9062, ext. 100

Senior Circle in partnership with Hospice by the Bay

First Wednesday of the Month April 3; 10:00am-11:30am With an open heart and an open mind, please join LCSW, Jill Cordova-Holt as our new Senior Circle facilitator. Sometimes we all need a little support when it comes to aging gracefully and leading ourselves through some emotional support.

Community Breakfast Friday, April 5; 9:00am10:00am; $3/6; Drop-in Stop by and enjoy our tasty, hot breakfast buffet.

Rollin’ Root Mobile Farmer’s Market Truck

Thursdays rain or shine; 9:00am-10:00am The Agricultural Institute of Marin’s Mobile Farmer’s Market visits Whistlestop every Thursday rain or shine. Purchase local seasonal fruits and vegetables with ease right here at Whistlestop.

Victim-Witness Assistance

2nd & 4th Thursdays, 9:00am-12:00pm; No Fee Advocate Yolanda Johnson from the District Attorney’s office answers questions, provides information, and connects you to resources. For more information, please call 415-473-6450.

Older Adult Housing Information Session

Wednesday, April 10; 11am-12:00pm; No fee; Registration suggested Jen Arent will discuss older adult housing options in Marin. Information about Covia’s free, Home Match Marin’s comprehensive home sharing services to older adults and the Marin Housing Authority’s subsidized and low-cost housing will be shared.

Healthy Aging Workshop

Thursday, April 18; 12:30pm-2:00pm; No fee; Registration required CONTINUED ON PAGE 6 >

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THURSDAYS

WEDNESDAYS

TUESDAYS

MONDAYS

FOOD

APRIL

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Are you interested in evaluating and improving your health? Join Wells Whitney, Board Member of the Buck Institute for a presentation of his healthy aging scorecard. Dr. Whitney will help you evaluate and identify the areas where you can improve your health and your life.

SPECIAL EVENTS & WORKSHOPS

Memory Screenings in partnership with JFCS’ Seniors At Home

Wednesday, April 3; 9:00am-12:30pm: No Fee; Registration Required Worried about memory loss or just want to have a reference detection test? Call today to schedule a free 45-minute appointment. Memory assessment is not diagnostic, but it is an opportunity to speak privately and confidentially with a professional evaluator. Limited to 10 appointments.

Evaluación de Memoria en Español en asociación con JFCS’ Mayores en Casa

Miercoles, 3 de Abril; 1:00pm-4:00pm; Gratis; Cita necesaria Preocupado por la pérdida de memoria o simplemente desea tener una prueba de detección de referencia. Llame hoy para programar una cita gratuita de 45 minutos. La evaluación de la memoria no es diagnóstica, pero es una oportunidad para hablar en privado y de manera confidencial con un evaluador profesional. Limitado a 5 nombramientos.

HICAP: Medicare Fundamentals

Wednesday, April 10; 10:00am-11:00am; Free; Registration encouraged Do you have questions about Medicare? Do you need help understanding the different parts of Medicare plans? Join HICAP at Whistlestop for an educational seminar where you can get you questions answered.

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Spring Luncheon featuring entertainers from Bread & Roses

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Thursday, April 11; 11:30pm -1:00pm; $10, Limited number of tickets available Spring brings new growth, weeds out the bad and makes room for something beautiful. Join us at Whistlestop as we celebrate Spring with our festive luncheon! Entertainment will begin at Noon.

National Healthcare Decisions Day Wednesday, April 16; Noon-2:00pm: Drop-In

Fresh. Affordable. Delicious.

Jackson Café Located in Whistlestop’s Active Aging Center

Entrées from $ $ 6- 10 Open to the public for LUNCH every weekday!

Stop by Whistlestop’s Lounge area for Advanced Care Planning and Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) Information. Take control while communicating your wishes to your loved ones.

CarePool Information Session with Kat Filley

Tuesday, April 16; 3:00pm-4:00pm; No fee; Registration suggested Change someone’s life by becoming a volunteer driver! CarePool is a vital transportation service for older adults across Marin. This flexible opportunity allows the volunteer to review and select trips that fit with their schedule. Are you interested in volunteering for CarePool as a driver? Are you a client needing a ride? Learn all about Whistlestop’s CarePool Program where volunteer drivers drive clients to medical appointments and grocery shopping.

It Gets Better with Age: Sex Ed for Older Adults

Wednesday, April 17; 10:00am-11:30am; No fee; Registration encouraged Join certified somatic sex educator, Shauna Farabaugh for this “Ask me anything!” style workshop to discuss all this and more. Bring your questions. Leave with easy to implement strategies for accessing more pleasure—alone or with a partner—and more confidence in your sexy self.

SSI & CalFresh Opportunity Presentation

Tuesday, April 23; 11:00am-Noon; Free; Registration encouraged Do you have questions about CalFresh? Do you have questions about the SF-Marin Food Bank? Join Thalia Diaz, Alexandra Danino & Mercedes King to learn about the changes that have happened with SSI recipients and their eligibility for CalFresh benefits.

Getting the Most out of Your Social Security

Wednesday, April 24; 10:00am-11:15am; No Fee; Registration required Filing for Social Security benefits requires an understanding of Social Security’s complex rules. Join Mike Zaidlin, founder of Madrone Investment Advisory LLC, who will discuss Social Security benefits, issues and impacts in an informative presentation at Whistlestop.

Zumba

Mondays; CLASSES 9:45am10:45am; $6/8; Drop-in; Dance to the beat of exciting music! Lead

by Pam Munter on Mondays.

SELECTED

Tai Chi

Mondays, 11:00am-Noon; $8/10; Drop-in Join David MacLam on a Tai Chi journey. This non-competitive martial art known for its self-defense techniques and health benefits combines gentle physical exercise and stretching with mindfulness.

Whistlesizers

Tuesday, 9:30am-10:30am and Thursday, 11:00am-Noon; $4/5; Drop-in Join Elizabeth Lynn, instructor for gentle chair exercises and light cardio to improve your strength, flexibility and motion.

Trusted providers of compassionate in-home care for seniors. licensed • bonded • insured

Open Art

Thursdays; 11:00am-1:00pm; Drop-In; No fee Do you have art projects that are unfinished? Would you like guidance and support from other artists? Join our newest Art facilitator Mary Brooks in doing art here at Whistlestop!

HOMEWELL SENIOR CARE 1/4 SQ

Ping Pong

Fridays; 2:00pm-4:00pm; $2/4; Drop-in Energetic group of players led

by Vivian Malcy. Please wear tennis shoes.

• • • • • • • •

Yoga

Fridays 3:00pm-4:00pm; $3/5; Drop-in Improve balance strength and flexibility with instructor, Kelly Lynch.

Please bring your own yoga mat.

Light Housekeeping & Laundry Meal Preparation & Clean Up Medication Reminders Personal Care • Respite Care Wardrobe, Dressing Assistance Help with Daily Grooming Bathing & Toileting Assistance Help with Ambulation

• Bed-bound Assistance • Protective Supervision for those with Impaired Judgment • Transportation & Errand Services • Companionship, Conversation • Meal Planning, Grocery Shopping • Help with Pets And much, much more…

(707) 931-4280 • (415) 599-4333 northbay.homewellseniorcare.com

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You Can Make a Difference Join the Whistlestop Family by making a gift I want to become a monthly supporter with a gift of: $10

$15

$20

$50 ________ /month

Or make a single donation in the amount of: $500

$250

$125

___________________ Name

___________________ Address

____________________ Phone

____________________

Email

Payment Info MC

Visa

___________________ CC#

___________________ Exp Date

___________________ 3 Digit Code

Mail to: 930 Tamalpais Ave, San Rafael 94901

Thank You!

VALLEY MEMORIAL PARK 1/4 SQ

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Billing Info

________

$100

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HIGHLIGHTED

SUPPORT SERVICES

Cal-Fresh (eligibility & application assistance)

Friday April 5 & 19, 10am-Noon; No fee The Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program, CalFresh, provides qualified applicants with an EBT card to use at participating grocery stores and farmer’s markets.

SF-Marin Food Bank’s Monthly Food Box for older adults Wednesday, April 17; 9:30am-12:30pm; Drop-in The SF-Marin Food Bank operates the Supplemental Food Program, providing a monthly box of quality U.S. Dept. of Agriculture food to low income older adults. To register, bring an ID, proof of income, and proof of residency and one of the Food Bank specialist will determine your eligibility.

Bi-Weekly Blood Pressure Checks, Cholesterol Screenings, and Medication Reviews

Friday, April 12 & April 26; 10:30am-Noon; No fee Bi-weekly blood pressure checks, cholesterol screenings, and medication reviews offered by BrightStar Care. BrightStar is a local agency providing home care, caregivers, and medical staffing solutions to families and businesses in Marin.

Free Legal Consultation

Thursday, By appointment only; call 415-459-6700 Legal Aid of Marin provides free 30-minute legal consultations for Marin County residents who are 60+. Local volunteer lawyers offer general advice, explain legal options and rights, and recommend referrals to attorneys who have expertise in your particular area of concern.

Covia’s Social Call Program

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Are you an older adult or a homebound or disabled individual who lives alone? Register today for free, reassuring calls three mornings a week to say, “Good morning” and check in with you. Call 1-877-797-7299.

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SHAKE UP YOUR MORNINGS WITH CAROL! Thursdays; 9:30am-10:30am $6/8; Drop-in Picture this: A great song comes on, and you start humming along, maybe tapping your feet. Join our newest dance teacher, Carol Butler and shake up your mornings!

COMPUTER CLASSES MAR, APR & MAY 2019

PRE-REGISTRATION AND

PAYMENT REQUIRED: 415-456-9062

ANDROID Basics 1: Getting to Know Your Device

Thursdays, March 28 & April 4, 10:00 am – Noon (2 classes) Fee: $48 Maximum 8 people In this two week course for those new to the smart phone/wireless device world Android products, you'll learn how to make calls, send emails, take pictures, surf the internet, download music and add applications. Each session provides one-on-one help and comes with instructional handouts so you can practice at home! (For Android devices only, including Samsung and LG.)

iPad/iPhone Basics 1: Getting to Know Your Device

Tuesdays, April 2 & April 9, 10:00 am – Noon (2 classes) Fee: $48 Maximum 8 people In this two week course for those new to the smart phone/wireless device world, you'll learn how to make calls, send emails, send texts, download music and add applications. Each session provides one-on-one help and comes with instructional handouts. (Bring your charged-up Apple device to class.)

Managing Your Photos

Tuesdays, May 7 & 14, 10:00 am – Noon (2 classes) Fee: $48 Maximum 8 people Learn how to take and edit photos on your iPhone, iPad, or Android device (Samsung, LG, Motorola, etc.). We'll also show you how to store your photos, transfer them all into one place, organize them into folders and how to get them printed. Bring photos on digital camera, smartphone, iPad or tablet (and all charging cords), to class, and if you have laptop bring that too!

iPad/iPhone Basics 2: Essential Built-in Applications

Thursdays, June 4 & June 11, 10:00 am – Noon (2 classes) Fee: $48 Maximum 8 people Review basics and learn about built-in apps including photo editing, iCloud, Calendar, Siri, E-mail, Texting, Facetime, and more! Please bring your fully charged device, Apple ID, and Apple password to class. (For Apple devices only.)

ONGOING Open Lab

No Fee | Every Monday and Wednesday, 10am-Noon Use our Apple and PC computers to access the Internet. Volunteers are available to help and give advice on problems with your laptops and tablets and software applications.

Assisted Living at its Best!

NUTRITION BITES

By Sophia Osotio Nutrition Program Coordinator

Crockpot Fudge Do you love chocolate? Dark chocolate is a great source of antioxidants, and such a sweet treat. How about dark chocolate fudge? Did you know that fudge is very easy to make yourself? This recipe is made with just 5 ingredients in the slow cooker!

Stir 1/3 cup coconut milk 2 ½ cup chocolate chips (dark or milk chocolate) 1 tsp vanilla extract 2 tsp of liquid stevia or honey, and a dash of salt in a small 3 or 4-quart crock pot.

Cover and cook on low for 2 hours. Uncover, turn off and let sit (no stirring

please) for 30 minutes to 1 hour. Stir well for 5 minutes until smooth (You can mix in some chopped nuts or other toppings if you would like).

Line a one-quart casserole dish with parchment paper.

Using a melon baller, scoop small balls of the mixture and place onto the parchment.

Chill 30 minutes or until firm.

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♥ 24 Hour Elder Care ♥ Family Environment 2 blocks from Downtown San Anselmo 46 Mariposa Ave. San Anselmo

BELLO GARDEN Juanita says “WE CARE” 1/8 The most famous duck in San Anselmo!

Visit us today for a tour!

Call 415.755.0087 www.bellogardens.com

no gas... all electric no noise... quiet power no license, insurance, maintenance

NORTH COAST MOBILITY 1/8

Sales, Service, Repairs, & Rentals

415.457.1664 1281 Anderson Dr., Ste. F, San Rafael

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We are Honored to be Voted the Winner of the Best Social Organization in Marin and Given Honor Awards for Best Nonprofit, Whistlestock as Best Charity Gala and Jackson Café for Best Meal Under $15

by Marin IJ Readers!

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ROTARY GOLF TOURNAMENT & FUNDRAISER The 2019 Rotary Club Marin’s Golf Tournament and Fundraiser will benefit Whistlestop this year, so save the date and get your short game in order!

WHEN Monday, May 13 Registration at 11:30am, shotgun start at 12:30 pm Tournament followed by silent auction, wine bar, and dinner

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WHERE Peacock Gap Golf Club, 333 Biscayne Drive, San Rafael

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MORE INFO To register, visit: www.rotarymaringolf. org. For tournament sponsorships and silent auction donations, contact the Tournament Chair, Chuck Orr at RotaryMarin2019@ gmail.com

Yvonne Roberts, Ed Messerly, Pennathur Sudha, Joe O’Hehir

Global Treasures to Local Riches T he beautiful and unique artisan wares created by local designer Sudha Pennathur benefitted Whistlestop and other local non-profit organizations once again.

Showcased during the 14th Annual Sudha’s Treasure Sale last fall, 100 percent of the proceeds from the sales of the distinctive merchandise were donated to local nonprofit organizations.

A nationally renowned designer and our neighbor, Sudha works with awardwinning artisans and craftspeople in India, Bali, Thailand, Egypt and Italy to design and produce unique jewelry, accessories and decorative arts for

the home. Her collections are handmade by artisans using sustainable resources and modern production technologies, yet they retain the old-world craftsmanship that conveys a story – one with soul that evokes fascination and charm.

“I merge the East and the West,” Sudha says. “I take the work of master craftsmen and translate it to suit Western tastes.”

Sudha sells more than 1,200 styles of jewelry, textiles, accessories and ornaments in some of America’s most famous retailers, including Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman.

On February 14, Sudha visited Whistlestop’s Active Aging Center to meet with CEO Joe O’Hehir and Chief Donor Relations Officer Yvonne Roberts to present a check for $17,000.

“Giving back is a fundamental value that was taught and practiced in my family” says Sudha. “When we have enough to live and enjoy the fruits of our labor there is nothing more rewarding than to share with others less fortunate and with those that can make a real difference in others’ lives.”

Whistlestop is humbled by Sudha’s generosity and advocacy for nonprofits in the Bay Area.

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

HIRED HANDS

Downtown Streets Team

More than the Clean-up Crew

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offered case management and employment services to help find housing and a job.

There are teams in San Rafael and Novato and over 112 people have gained long term employment and 81 people have gotten back into housing.

The mission of Downtown Streets Team is to find solutions to end homelessness and help those seeking a way back into the workforce.

CEO and Founder Eileen Richardsons’ vision and breakthrough results were recently recognized by the James Irvine Foundation. One of five 2019 Leadership Award winners, Eileen was honored for improving lives, creating opportunity, and contributing to a better California.

“Every day we see miracles of people becoming important parts of their community’s fabric again — often people who were written off. That gets me up every morning,” said Richardson.

We thank Eileen for her passion and service to our community. For more information visit, streetsteam.org/ san-rafael.

THE REDWOODS 1/4 SQ

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Schedule a Tour!

Contact: Cheri Drees 415.383.2741 x223

EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY

SNF# 010000390 RCFE# 210102866

A P R I L 2 019 WH IS TLES TO P E XPRESS

omelessness is something most people never believe will happen to them – especially in beautiful and affluent Marin County. Often, people mistakenly believe that those who are homeless have come to the community from other places. The truth is, 72 percent of those who are homeless locally are from Marin. Homelessness is closer than we think.

One local organization – Downtown Streets Team – is combining compassion and innovation to help local residents who are homeless or nearly homeless with the resources they need to rebuild their lives, all while cleaning up the community.

Downtown Streets Team members volunteer on a team and work collaboratively on clean-up and beautification projects. Each team member is required to complete tasks, show up on time, and work well with others. In return, they receive a noncash stipend to help cover their basic needs and are

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Whistlestop

VOLUNTEER FAIR

E PRESS Marin Senior Coordinating Council 930 Tamalpais Avenue San Rafael, CA 94901-3325

Get the Most Out of Your Social Security Benefits!

By Yvonne Roberts

WH IS TLES TO P E XPRESS A P R I L 2 019

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aking the most optimal Please join us at Whistlestop decision about when to file on Wednesday, April 24, from 10for Social Security benefits 11:15am for an informative requires an understanding presentation by Mike Zaidlin not only of Social Security’s covering the many issues that complex rules, but also impact your social security an understanding of the benefits. financial impact of taking Michael is the founder benefits both too early or of Madrone Investment too late.

Advisory LLC, a financial You may be entitled to planning and investment benefits you weren’t aware Yvonne Roberts management firm based here of. This is particularly true in San Rafael. for many divorced or surviving exKindly register: 415-456-9062. Free spouses. Making the most optimal estate planning binders for attendees. filing decision also requires considering This presentation is sponsored by the impact of one’s investments Valley Memorial Park Cemetery and portfolio as well as one’s overall tax Funeral Home in Novato. situation.

Need help with your estate This presentation will cover the documents?

Older adults may schedule role of Social Security as longevity free half hour appointments at insurance, the taxation of benefits, Whistlestop with Legal Aid of Marin, the ability to withdraw and suspend by calling Whistlestop’s Resource office: benefits, the impact of the earnings 415-459-6700. test, the potential impact on benefits of working past age 60, and the impact of To learn more about making charitable gifts to CALSTRS pensions on Social Security Whistlestop, please contact Yvonne Roberts at benefits for public school teachers.

YRoberts@whistlestop.org, or 415-295-0578.

Make a Difference!

We are seeking friendly and reliable volunteers who want to give back to their community.

DATE

Thursday, April 11, 2019

TIME

3pm – 4:30pm (drop-In)

930 Tamalpais Ave. San Rafael, CA 94901

LOCATION

Volunteer positions include: • CarePool Volunteer Drivers • Meals on Wheels Delivery Drivers • Jackson Café Lunch Servers & Cashiers • General Office help and Parking Services • Home Delivered Grocery Shoppers (in partnership with Covia) For more information contact: Laurie Vermont, Volunteer Program Manager Phone: 415-456-9067 or Email: volunteer@ whistlestop.org