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INDEX Learn to cope well with holiday stress . . . . . . .2 Start a new holiday tradition . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Learn to cope well with holiday stress
Inspirations and innovations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
BY MICHAEL HERMAN
Helping those grieving during the holidays . . .4
Sometimes, holidays can bring on more stress than celebratory cheer. With busy schedules, increased spending and dispersed families, it's understandable that our emotional health can be affected. Practicing effective coping methods can help you enjoy the season.
Looking for a new computer? . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Dining Deals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Turkey, potatoes and a side of family health history . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Aunt Sadie answers Medicare, Social Security questions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Make a joyful noise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-9 Reducing disability in Alzheimer’s disease . . .10 Puzzles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Preserving memories: Photobooks . . . . . . . . .12 Volunteer opportunities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Celebrate National Family Caregiver Month . .14 Aging and Disability Resource Connection . . .15 Book Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
GENERATIONS A quarterly publication of Cascades West Senior and Disabilty Services, local Senior Centers, and Retired & Senior Volunteer Programs
As a psychologist, I often utilize acceptance and commitment therapy when working with patients who are experiencing depression or excess stress, focusing on the concept of valuebased living. It's understanding that you can't do it all or keep everyone happy all the time. What matters is that you determine what values are most important in your day-to-day life. Then, when you start to feel overstressed, choose an action that is effective in upholding those values. It may still be difficult emotionally, but less so than feeling stuck and choosing no action or trying to do it all and failing. Here's an example: Your son and daughter live in different states and both have asked you to visit them at Christmas. While one of your values is family support, you are feeling stressed financially. You want to make everyone happy and
would enjoy seeing your loved ones, but you know it's best to stay home and spend Christmas with nearby family members. Instead of feeling guilty or sad, realize that you can't do it all or make everyone happy. You can uphold your values by writing personalized Christmas letters or making a special effort to have face time with distant family through a video call service, such as Skype. For people who have lost loved ones, the holidays can bring up feelings of grief. Know that this discomfort is normal. If your loss is recent, including the memory of your loved one in your holiday traditions can help, as can writing holiday letters or doing something that he or she used to enjoy during the holidays. If you are unable to cope with stress or depression, be sure to ask for help. You can do an Internet search for "depression hotlines," reach out to family and friends or call your health care provider. Know that you won't always feel this way and there is help. Michael Herman, PsyD, is a psychologist at Samaritan Mental Health in Corvallis and is accepting new patients. He may be reached at 541-768-5235.
The Editorial Board Marilyn Smith . . . . . . . . . . . . .City of Albany 541-917-7507 Tarmara Rosser . . . . . . . . . . . .Linn-Benton RSVP 541-812-0849 Scott Bond . . . .Senior and Disability Services 541-812-6008 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Corvallis Senior Center 541-754-1709 Jennifer Nitson . . . .Samaritan Health Services 541-768-4241
Senior & Disability Services 1400 Queen Ave. SE, Suite 206 Albany, OR 97322
For more information
Cyndi Sprinkel-Hart 541-812-6073 or email cyndi.sprinkel-hart@lee.net
What would you like to see in Generations? 541-924-8421 or email AJOHNSON@ocwcog.org
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Start a new holiday tradition BY TAMARA ROSSER This holiday season there will be show-stopping deals, overthe-top incentives, amazing deals, and extra rewards given to loyal shoppers. Sometimes with cash, but usually with credit cards at the ready, we will search out the perfect gift for everyone in our lives from the postman to family, all in preparation for the holiday festivities. Gift giving is a tradition. However, that tradition can turn the warmth of the holidays into an exhausted, spread thin and to some extent, stressed out time. It is time for you to step back from the shopping bags that keep us weighed down and the icy cold winds that make us feel weathered. It's important that
we value the amazing things that we have, regardless of what the cost. At the end of the year, the true blessings come from what we love most in the form of family, friends, big moments, and small memories. Whether your bank account is full or just above the required minimum balance, your finances should not deter you from giving. Giving comes in all forms, not just the material kind. One of the best ways to give is by volunteering. A lot of local organizations can use your services during the holidays. Here are some tips that will help you make the biggest impact with your volunteerism. • Pick the right opportunity for you. Find an organization that aligns with your values. • Be realistic about how much
time you have to volunteer. Find something that will work with your schedule. • Volunteer as part of a group. Invite family, friends, and coworkers to join you. • Get creative. Several community groups are looking for volunteers. Ask around. • Decide what skills you want to use. Is it serving, caroling, visiting, cleaning, delivering? How do you want to volunteer? • Be flexible. The right opportunity may not be the first one you pick. Keep trying. • Make a plan and start early. Organizations are businesses and plan out their days. Usually, one cannot just show up and volunteer. • Keep volunteering. Many volunteers only serve once a month or others serve several
times a week. Organizations will usually accommodate your schedule. • Organize a toy, food, or coat drive and donate those items to local organizations. Just check with the organization prior to donating large amounts. • Donate money. It is always appreciated. • Have fun. This is a great way to create new memories. Take some of the commercial part out of the holidays. Give the gift of your time. Make a difference in the lives of your neighbors and your community. For more information on volunteering or volunteer opportunities, contact RSVP at 541-812-0849, email rsvplb@ocwcog.org, visit www.rsvpoflbl.org, or connect with your favorite organization.
Inspirations and innovations Are you curious about the new vehicles that you see on the road or have read about? Do you want to learn how to make a simple air-powered rocket or bake a good loaf of bread? View and make a variety of innovative technologies, talk to the owners of a Think car and a Tesla, or try making that air-powered rocket on November 9 from 1-5 pm at Chintimini Senior Center, 2601 NW Tyler Ave. The first ever Corvallis Inspirations & Innovations Fair offers something for ages 6 and up. Owners and inventors will come together to share ideas, knowledge and the technologies they live with. Simple do-ityourself activities will be available, such as making an easy bookmark that doesn't fall out of a book to making a pop-tab bracelet. Admission is $5.00 per person. For more information, contact Deb Curtis at 541-754-1734. To purchase a ticket, visit www.corvallisoregon.gov/pr in the Activity Guide section or call 541-766-6959.
Tesla was voted Motor Trends 2013 Car of the Year. The Elf is a solar powered vehicle between a car and a bike.
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Helping those grieving during the holidays BY JOELLE OSTERHAUS Holiday melodies begin ringing earlier and earlier each year. It seems that everywhere we go, the season is upon us with dĂŠcor, plans and the eager anticipation of many. In the safe spaces of grief support groups, many bereaved express, 'I'd rather slip into my bed, under the covers, and await rescue.' Indeed, this time of year can feel like an intense contrast to the internal experience of a grieving person. While anticipation and anxiety mount as the grieving person encounters the cultural merriment around them, how can others help them weather the storm? For those who know and care about a person who has experienced a loss, here are some things you can do to be supportive:
Be intentional Set aside time to write a card, call, or offer to visit. When with a bereaved person, acknowledge that you remember the person who died. Use their name.
Be direct Check in with those you care about. "What has this holiday been like for you without ___ ?" "What did ____ do during or think about this holiday?" Let them share openly without offering advice or providing your own story. Just listen and give them space to share freely - if they want to.
Be open There is no right or wrong way to grieve and therefore no right or wrong way to approach the holiday season. So if you know someone who is choosing to pull back this year, respect their wishes. If they do not wish to talk about the person
who died or if they aren't visibly moved by their absence, be accepting of this response as what is most natural and fitting to them. Conversely, if they are very emotionally expressive and desire to talk about the person, let that be so too. We each find our own way and it helps when we can do so without judgment.
Be flexible No two people grieve in the same way so it is not uncommon that people in the same family would have different ideas about how to do a holiday. Talk openly about what each person wants and do your best to be flexible and come to a mutual agreement. Respect one another's differences and needs as much as possible. This holiday season, let the grieving person know that they are in your heart and that you are there for them. Keep in mind that their grief will change. It will not always hurt like this. History has shown that all people have the capacity to heal after a loss - in their own time. If you or someone you know is wanting more support at this difficult time, call Benton Hospice Service for information about free grief counseling or grief support groups available for all ages. Joelle Osterhaus, MSW, ACHPSW, is the Bereavement Coordinator at Benton Hospice Service. She works with individuals and families who are dealing with loss or grief of all types regardless of whether a family member received hospice care. She works in homes, schools and workplaces with adults and children, employers and co-workers, students and teachers providing education and grief support. She holds a bachelor’s and a masters in Social Work from the University of Iowa with gerontology and end-of-life care specialization.
Tips for those grieving during holidays Be honest with yourself. This holiday will be different. Your person who died is not here in the same way they were before. That is beyond your control. Do whatever feels right to you with whom, when and where. Be prepared. You will likely grieve at this time. We all do grief in our own way so this may look like tearfulness for one, impatience for another, numbness for someone else, and so forth. Acknowledge that you will likely experience a multitude of reactions. Practice self-care. Holidays have a reputation for being draining. Putting the holiday season and grief together can be quite stressful. Pace yourself. Take time for you. Be mindful of your physical and emotional limits. This may mean pulling back on some of your traditional engagements. Remember the person who died. Many feel a strong need to know that the person who died is not forgotten. Take intentional steps to remember the person who died such as by telling stories, having their name included in a special spiritual service, making a donation in their name, eating their favorite food or lighting a candle.
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Looking for a new computer? in quality between a $100 tablet and a $200 tablet.
BY JOHN RASKAUSKAS You have all heard the same old Mac vs. Windows arguments. The arguments about which is better rage on. Things like, "If you want a smoother and friendlier user experience that costs more up front, get a Mac”. Or, "If you want a computer that can do everything for half the price, but is susceptible to viruses, has a steeper learning curve and a general character of clunkiness, get a Windows PC.” The thing is, these two extremes have become a false dichotomy. Traditional Mac or Windows desktops and laptops can do everything, but if you are new to either, neither is easy. Over the past few years of teaching many computer application classes at LBCC Benton Center, I have learned that not everyone needs a personal computer, Mac or PC. Many people can get by with another option altogether. First, what are the other options? If all you want to do is surf the web, check and send e-mail, visit social media sites, and stream Netflix, a smart phone, like an iPhone or Android phone (or Windows phone or BlackBerry), will do the trick. If the screens on those devices are too small, you can get a tablet device such as the Apple iPad, or any number
If you still need a full computer, the landscape has changed a lot in the past few years with dozens of hybrid tablet PCs running Windows 8 as well as a new generation of ultrabook laptops that have a much slimmer profile and longer battery life than many computers of the recent past. If you are on a budget, here are two tips for you: 1) remember that last year's model often costs as little as half what the leading edge technology costs. Unless you are a power user or a gamer, you won't be taking advantage of all that power anyway. 2) You can often buy refurbished laptops, computers, and tablets on company websites (ex. Best Buy.com, Apple.com).
John Raskauskas with computer students at LBCC Benton Center. of Android tablets such as the Samsung Galaxy Tab, the Nexus 7, or the Kindle Fire. There are also some very inexpensive laptops called Chromebooks which do all the basic tasks a Mac or Windows PC does but with a much simpler operating system. All of these options cost less than a middle of the road Windows PC or Mac and are easier to use for beginners wanting to complete
basic tasks. One thing that often holds people back from making the leap to a smart phone or a tablet is that they do not like typing on a touch screen, but in most cases it is possible to pair the device with a wireless keyboard, so typing can be as easy as ever. One word of caution: don't get too cheap. Do not buy the least expensive Android tablets, as there is a very large difference
No matter what you decide is the device for you, keep in mind that local colleges like Lane Community College, Linn-Benton Community College, and Chemeketa offer a variety of technology courses that can help you learn the basics. John Raskauskas teaches noncredit computer application courses such as Windows 7 & 8, Social Media, Mac Essentials II, Microsoft Word 2010, Computer Care, and Android at LBCC Benton Center. He lives in Corvallis with his wife and two children.
Dining Deals Visits to the Farmers’ Markets and local gardeners can yield great dining deals Our Farmers’ Markets are often a good resource for healthy, extremely fresh, inexpensive food. With the early spring and the lasting warm weather, more crops will have a longer season so we can enjoy them far into the fall and early
winter. Not only do the Farmers’ Markets have fresh produce but the Corvallis Farmers’ Market has some fabulous food carts that offer affordable food for brunch or lunch. Zia Southwest Cuisine, Earth Rising and Creperie Du Lys are at the Saturday market from 9 am to 1 pm. On Wednesdays, Zia Southwest Cuisine is back at the Corvallis Market from 9 am to 1 pm. Farmers’ Markets can also be
found in Brownsville and Kings Valley/Wren. The Kings Valley Farmers’ Market is the first Sunday of each month July October from noon - 4 pm at the Wren Community Hall, 35515 Kings Valley Highway. It showcases locally-grown produce, music performed by local artists, and artisans’ crafts and wares. Brownsville Farmers’ Market is Saturdays, 9 am to 1 pm at Parks St and Main. Albany's Farmers’ Market is also on Saturdays from 9 am to
1 pm through the fall. Another low-cost alternative for fresh produce is at the Corvallis and Albany senior centers. Both have locally-grown produce donated to them that they distribute for free, on a first-come, first-served basis. Contact the Senior Center to find out which days produce is available or if you are a gardener who has extra produce to share.
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Turkey, potatoes and a side of family health history As you gather with your family during the holidays, there's an easy way to keep the conversation from turning to politics: talk about your shared family health history instead.
dition is genetic, often appearing during the teenage years. Because Spencer had been adopted as a newborn, he had no access to his biological family health history.
Family elders are the memory keepers when it comes to any serious illnesses and chronic diseases that may run in your family. This vital information needs to be shared with children and other biological relatives.
After his bout with cancer, his children and grandchildren made appointments for screening. The tests revealed that his son, daughter and a granddaughter had the condition. His son's condition, unfortunately, had progressed to cancer and he began treatment for the disease.
Collecting family health history is encouraged by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and the Office of the Surgeon General. The goal is to trace illnesses that run in your family and predict whether action should be taken early in order to stay healthy. Steve Spencer of Depoe Bay learned about the power of genetics and family history in the midst of a shocking cancer diagnosis. "I had no clue I had cancer," said Spencer, who was 55 at the time. "I went to the doctor because my leg was hurting and I was craving ice." A colonoscopy revealed a highly abnormal amount of polyps in the form of familial adenomatous polyposis, a condition that turns into colon cancer if left untreated. "The doctors couldn't believe I was still alive," Spencer said. "They told me I should have been dead 10 years ago from this." His doctors moved quickly to remove the cancer, and Spencer underwent six months of chemotherapy. Most physicians recommend a colonoscopy for patients starting at age 50. Spencer had been putting it off for years. His con-
"I'm so thankful my experience could help the rest of my family," said Spencer, who now understands that health knowledge is power - and the sooner you act on it, the better. To find out what you should be asking, visit www.hhs.gov/ FamilyHistory. At this holiday season's family dinners, pass the potatoes with a side of meaningful conversations that could protect your loved ones for generations to come.
Healthier Holiday Treats The holidays are a time of feasts and treats. Resident physicians of Samaritan Family Medicine Resident Clinic present these recipes for healthier holiday treat options to help you enjoy the season without guilt. Cookie Dough Drops By Allison Abresch-Meyer, DO Vegan and gluten free Preheat oven to 350. Combine the following in a food processor: 1 1/4 cup canned garbanzo beans (pour off the water) 2 tsp. vanilla 1/2 cup + 2 Tbs. natural peanut butter 1/4 cup honey or agave 1 tsp. baking powder Pinch of salt
Stir in 1/2 cup chocolate chips Wet hands and roll in to tablespoon-size balls. Place on cookie sheet and bake for 10 minutes. Cool and eat! Makes two dozen cookies.
Almond slices for ears. Small almond slices for noses. Refrigerate for at least two hours, until firm. Best left in refrigerator overnight. Makes 18 mice. Pears Poached in Red Wine, Cardamom and Orange Stephen Hallas, DO (Adapted from Bon AppĂŠtit, March 1997) Easy to make ahead of time, and highlights seasonal fall fruit
1 750-ml bottle dry red wine 2 1/4 cups sugar 2 cups water 1/2 cup orange juice Weili Zhang Chocolate Mouse 1 teaspoon ground cardamom 1 cinnamon stick Chocolate Mice 2 teaspoons grated orange peel Weili Zhang, DO 4 firm but ripe pears, peeled, A fun recipe to make with chil- stems left intact dren 4 ounces of Hershey's milk 1 plain or almond biscotti, chocolate bar crumbled 1/3 cup cream cheese 1 pint vanilla ice cream 1 and 1/3 cups chocolate graOrange peel strips ham cracker crumbs 8 squares of caramel Combine wine, sugar, water, 1/4 cup sliced almonds orange juice, spices and orange 9 cranberries cut in half peel in a heavy saucepan. Stir over medium heat until sugar Melt the chocolate and cream dissolves, bringing the mixture to simmer. Add pears and bring cheese. Stir in 1 cup cookie to a simmer. Reduce heat and crumbs and refrigerate until simmer slowly for about 25 firm. minutes, until pears are tender. Melt the caramel. Let cool and Remove pears from saucepan. Boil liquid for about 20 minutes, roll into long thin cylinders for reducing the liquid to about 3 the tails. cups. (Can be made a day ahead. Cover and chill pears in Take a tablespoonful of the poaching liquid and rewarm chocolate/cream cheese/cookie over medium-low heat until mixture and roll it into balls. pears are heated through.) Mold to a slight point at one Arrange one warm pear and end. That will become the face. one scoop of ice cream on indiRoll it in graham cracker crumbs vidual plates. Drizzle on some poaching liquid and sprinkle to make it look like fur. Adhere the caramel tail onto with biscotti crumbs. Garnish the tail end of the body. Add the with orange peel strips and cranberry halves to face as eyes. serve.
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Aunt Sadie answers Medicare, Social Security questions Dear Aunt Sadie, Last year at Thanksgiving, Uncle Ernie hammered away at me to switch my Medicare coverage to his particular Advantage program, which he says is definitely "the best.' Uncle Ernie IS really smart. Maybe this year I should write down exactly what plan he has and go with that? Sweet Sally Dear Sweetie, unsolicited advice from confident relatives is just part of holiday meals, right along with Cousin Sunshine's Tofurkey and Grandma's "famous" marshmallow-cranberry jello. This year when Uncle Annual Enrollment Period October 15-December 7 Add/change/cancel Advantage and drug plans without penalty Ernie offers his "wisdom," just smile and say, "Wow! That sounds amazing. You have so many great ideas. Thank you!" And then, IF you and Uncle Ernie have exactly the same health needs, take the same drugs, like the same doctors, and have the same income and priorities, you could consider his plan. . . along with other options, of course. Uncle Ernie is right about one thing! Every year when you see the pumpkins ripening, revisit your supplement/drug/Advantage plan. October 15-December 7 are the golden dates to make changes. Do you remember receiving a letter from your current Advantage or Part D Pre-
scription Drug Plan, about October 1? It outlined changes for 2014 in your current plan. Medicare plans change every year. Your current plan may have expanded drug coverage or dropped a drug you take. Sometimes premiums or copays mysteriously get lower, or climb higher. You change, too. You may have added an expensive medication. Perhaps you anticipate greater health care needs or have a particular doctor in mind for an upcoming procedure. These and other factors influence which Medicare plan is wise for you. Trained SHIBA volunteers can help you figure this out. They will show you how to navigate the Medicare Plan Finder tool. If you are computer-phobic, they will do it for you. SHIBA collects information from all the Advantage plans in the area, which makes it easier for you to compare costs and benefits. Sometimes people who have been very happy with their supplement plans become less enthralled as the premiums climb with each year of age. SHIBA counselors can offer options. (We'll do all this for Uncle Ernie, too :).
GENERATIONS is published in part by
Senior & Disability Services A program of Cascades West Council of Governments 541-967-8630 or 1-800-638-0510
541-336-2289 or 1-800-282-6194
TDD/VOICE in Benton and Linn counties
TDD/VOICE in Lincoln County
Dear Aunt Sadie, Social Security has phoned me twice over the past few weeks. Apparently a virus on my computer is attempting to access the Social Security computers! The caller wants to help me install a program on my computer that will clean up this situation. I am awaiting another call so this can get sorted out. Is this a common virus? Am I in trouble with the government? Gullible Gus Dear Gus, this scam is currently operating in Benton and Linn counties! Social Security would never ask for access to your computer in this way. If you cooperate with this scam artist (who is definitely not from Social Security), he will likely install (with your unwitting assistance!) a program that will give him "the keys to the kingdom." He will have open access to your computer and may even see your keystrokes, giving him the passwords and user names you use to access bank account and credit cards. You probably feel pretty, well, gullible, about this now. These criminals are AMAZINGLY convincing. You are not in trouble with the government, but if you had cooperated, you might have BIG banking/credit card problems. Some good rules: • Do not trust that an unsolicited call comes from the agency the caller identifies. • Do not let an unknown
Free "Medicare ABCD" classes* 10:00 am - Saturday, October 26, LBCC Benton Center 2:00 pm - Tuesday, October 29, Albany Library 10:00 am - Thursday, November 7, LBCC Lebanon Annex 10:00 am - Thursday, November 14, LBCC Benton Center *good opportunity for experienced Medicare beneficiaries to review changes for the upcoming year
someone talk you through a software installation. • Do not share your Social Security or Medicare number (the same for most people). If you are completing a form (perhaps in a doctor's office) that requests this information, leave that item blank. You are entitled to be a little cantankerous (in the nicest possible way) now that you are a senior! Aunt Sadie expresses the collective wisdom of the SHIBA volunteers of Benton and Linn counties. SHIBA is funded by Medicare in part to provide individualized information to beneficiaries. Do you need assistance understanding Medicare, Medicare Advantage, or Medigap insurance? From simple questions to filing appeals, we can help! Call us at 541-812-0849 to ask a question, register for class, or schedule a free appointment.
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Make a joyful noise
Pastor Sharon Edwards: “Music involves all of our senses.� BY MARTHA WELLS It is fall and rehearsals for holiday concerts fill the air with music. If you are among those who play an instrument or sing, you may be harvesting more than the joy of it all. Recent headlines tell us that musical training is good for us. Rev. Sharon Edwards, Pastoral Visitation Specialist at First Presbyterian Church in Corvallis, holds a degree in music therapy from the University of Kansas. This training has broadened Sharon's perspective. "Music is a tool to reach goals that are not necessarily musical," she said. "It involves all of our senses. Not only breathing, speaking and hearing - endorphins go up, our temperature and skin moisture change." Sharon also points out that you cannot sing well if you have poor breathing or posture. "We lose 40% of our oxygen intake as we age," Sharon said, "and singing can help counteract that." Studies abound on the physical and emotional impact of musical performance on aging. A Kansas Medical Center study was recently published in the journal Neuropsy-
chology crediting higher musical experience with higher scores on cognitive tests among older people. At Northwestern University, a study is underway to verify that mastery of a musical instrument may reduce age-related hearing loss. Locally, Samaritan Health Services uses resources available through ArtsCare, an innovative program that places artists in local hospitals to provide the healing sounds of the harp, viola, guitar and voice.
Nature or nurture: Most musically-active adults gained their musical training as children. Those who teach music seem to agree that a supportive environment is the key to success. There is no music gene. That supportive environment can take many forms. The dairy barn was the place of inspiration for Jim Asleson, Executive Director of the Albany YMCA. Jim is noted for creating twangy tributes for notable events and people in the mid-valley. "Growing up, you had to listen to something when you're tossing bales of hay, cleaning up manure or milking
cows; for us it was radio WDMP. For a long time I thought there was only one kind of music: country-western." Jim and his extended family were self-taught, with some learning more than others. Jim never learned to read music, but he creates his own songs and lyrics with his acoustic guitar. Jim plans to carry this pastime into his retirement years and with encouragement from wife, Elke, and help from his son, Kris, he has established a tribute song hobby business, "Tall Tribute" (www.talltribute.com). Keith Sandberg, a State Farm Insurance agent in Albany, had a more regimented introduction to music. Keith recalls, "In Sunday school I learned all of the usual songs. My four siblings and I began piano lessons as we each entered second grade." Band and choir followed throughout Keith's schooling. "My music teachers ended up being among my most memorable role models," he said. Unlike Jim and Sharon, who stayed active with their music, Keith drifted from organized music after college. Career and family took precedence. Keith noticed a void, once his children left
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Where do I sign up? If you have an interest in starting or restarting your musical life, here are a few of the area's performing groups. Attend concerts to see if the groups and their music fit your expectations.
For performing: Corvallis Community Choir
corvalliscommunitychoir.us Corvallis Community Band
www.c-cband.org The Hilltop Big Band
www.hilltopbigband.com Lebanon Community Chorus Self-taught Jim Asleson does twangy tributes. home. "I was invited to audition for the Willamette Master Chorus." Keith said, "Now nearly 20 years later, I truly appreciate having music again. The combination of lyric, melody, emotion, and camaraderie often produces a result that is nearly spiritual."
As for Keith's children, "I received a call from our daughter this week to inform my wife and me that after dropping out of choral music following her graduation from college, she has successfully auditioned to join a choir in Portland! I have a feeling she will cherish this regained fulfillment in her life as much as I've enjoyed it in mine."
www.lebanoncommunitychorus.org Willamette Valley Concert Band
www.wvcband.org Willamette Master Chorus
www.willamettemasterchorus.org Most area churches have choirs that would welcome new singers.
For lessons Linn Benton Community College Community Education classes.
www.linnbenton.edu Albany Parks & Recreation offers lessons for adults 541-917-7777. Most area music stores can provide lists of music teachers and classes.
Keith Sandberg rediscovered music with Willamette Master Chorus.
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Los Angeles Times Crossword Puzzle
QUOTE CRYPTOGRAM S B M W KV Y CY N N C K J M D O , K B W Y X CY N N K N N PY X X S L M X F M I
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P U Z Z L E S puzzle solutions on page 13
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Preserving memories: Photobooks BY REBECCA BARNHART Think back to your last great vacation. Did you go abroad? Finally take that cruise? Visit family and friends? Wherever your travels took you, I bet you used a camera to capture invaluable memories from each day of your trip. And it's never been easier right? With digital cameras you can return home and store, organize and edit your photos on our own home computer. Now, you can even bring your adventures back to life by creating a photobook or album. There are many software websites that take you through the steps on how to create a unique photobook and have it printed professionally and delivered right to your doorstep. In addition to making photo albums for travel, you might consider creating photobooks of holidays, weddings, or even capturing your children and grandchildren as they grow. Beyond preserving memories, get crafty! Think about creating your own cookbook, a gardening how-to, or self-publish that novel you've been sitting on for years. These books make wonderful presents and everyone will be impressed that you created it from scratch! The Kodak Picture Kiosk and the Shutterfly websites have online photobook programs. More professional brands like Blurb also provide this service. The best news is that creating your book is absolutely free; you only pay for printing. Simply create a profile on the program of your choice, pick a theme or create your own, and add photos and text as you wish.
Create photobooks from digital photos to preserve memories. about top-notch book making. Here are a few tips to get you started on the book making process: 1. Organize: Gather your photos, recipes, and tips and go through a process of elimination. Use the ones you are really proud of and want to show off. Once you've narrowed your favorites down, gather them all into one folder on your computer and name them accordingly (this makes it easier when it's time to upload). Rebecca Barnhart These programs are created by photographers, designers, and book-lovers, too. They are obsessed with quality and sticklers
2. Flow: Next, determine how you want your story to flow. Is this a travel log? Or, are you creating a timeline of your grandkids' growth? I suggest mapping out a beginning and an end, then filling out the middle section. This will help you organize your thoughts. Now decide on some fun captions for your photos. At this point, you'll have done the bulk of your creative decisionmaking. 3. Start uploading: You can choose to keep it simple, or you can spend a little extra time using the full potential of these really cool software programs.
You can move things around, or play with rotation, shadows. Get creative, and make a work of art. 4. Send to print: The best part of the whole process. Before you order, I suggest printing out a draft on your home printer, and checking for errors (this is never a bad thing). Make sure you choose a suitable size and paper type for your book. If you have any concerns about your finished product, don't be shy in calling the printer for detailed guidelines. It's easier than you think to get your photos out of the digital world and give them the attention they deserve. So grab your camera, get out there, and start shooting. Rebecca Barnhart holds a Master of Arts in Journalism from the University of Iowa. Her photographic and journalistic work has appeared in many publications including The Oregonian, The Iowa City Press Citizen, Room Magazine and blogs like Carts and Tools. She teaches Photobooks and other photography and computer applications courses at Linn-Benton Community College.
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Volunteer Opportunities Linn & Benton counties Certified Ombudsman Volunteers needed to advocate for residents in long term care facilities. If you like to problem solve and work with people, this program might be a great fit for you. Training and monthly support group meetings for volunteers provided. Call Gretchen Jordan at 1-800-522-2602 or email gretchen.jordan@ltco.state.or.us. Senior Companion Program volunteers are healthy, older adults who help other adults live independently. Senior Companions provide companionship, help keep clients in contact with family and friends, provide transportation to medical appointments and other necessary errands, enabling clients to live independently with zest and dignity. To learn more, call 541- 574-4714. Have you ever wanted to make a difference in the life of a child? Are you looking for a way to volunteer while supplementing your Social Security income? The Foster Grandparent Program provides loving and experienced mentors and tutors to children with special needs. Working one-onone and serving 15-40 hours a week, Foster Grandparents are individuals over age 55 who provide support in schools, community organizations, treatment programs, correctional facilities, and childcare centers. If you're interested in becoming a volunteer, contact Joy at 541-917-7772. Benton Hospice Service seeks people who like to lend a hand to people facing serious illness and their caregivers. The next two-day respite and companion training will be held Tuesday and Thursday, October 22 and 24, 8:30 am-5:00 pm both days. For information or to register, call Jamey Suderman at Benton Hospice Service, 541-757-9616. Benton County Chintimini Senior Center in Corvallis needs special Events Committee members. As we move into a new generation of older adults, this group will bring a new and fresh perspective to activities and events that this generation may be interested in. Be a part of revitalizing the events that happen at the Center. Call Linda Elder, 541-754-1725, for information. The Benton County Sheriff's Office has a host of opportunities for volunteers interested in supporting law enforcement endeavors as well as providing service to the Benton County community. Every strength and skill, whether it is organization, speak-
ing, horsemanship, or driving a 4x4, can aid the Sheriff's Office. Opportunities range from search and rescue to speed surveys, office support and patrol assistance. To apply, go to the volunteer section at www.co.benton.or.us/sheriff. For questions, contact Sgt. Leslie Pomaikai at 541-766-6853, or Leslie.Pomaikai@co.benton.or.us. Chintimini Senior Center volunteer receptionist/cashier. Are you outgoing, comfortable working with computers, and handling money? Volunteer as a receptionist/ cashier at the Chintimini Senior Center. Greet customers, answer phones, process class and activity registrations, and sell concessions. Must pass a criminal background history check. Contact Natalie, 541- 766-6785 to apply. Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center is looking for dedicated individuals to fill current service area needs including: No One Dies Alone/Compassionate Companion, Sam's Espresso Cabana baristas, Family Assistance, and patient registration. For more information and application materials, contact the Volunteer Service Department, 541-768-5083, or GSRMCVolunteerServices@samhealth.org. Linn County Albany Regional Museum is looking for able-bodied volunteers to help move exhibits and perform other facility tasks a few times each month. No experience is required. Email armuseum@peak.org or call 541-967-7122.
The Call-A-Ride office is located at 112 10th Ave. SW, next to the Amtrak station. For more information contact Ted at 541- 9177638, or ted.frazier@cityofalbany.net. The East Linn Museum needs volunteer hosts. Duties include meeting guests and taking them on a tour of the museum. No historical background needed. It is easy to learn from labels on each artifact. Usually two people are on duty at a time, one afternoon a month. Museum hours are 11-4 pm Thursday through Sunday. Call 541-3674580. Help reduce hunger in Sweet Home by volunteering at SHEM Food Pantry and Manna Meal Site. Volunteer opportunities available for shipment deliveries, re-stocking, re-packaging food items, clerical work, cleaning, client foodbox assistance and meal preparation. For more information, contact SHEM at 541-367-6504, or email shemfoodbank@gmail.com. Volunteer Caregivers is in need of volunteers to drive our car or their own to provide medical transportation for seniors in the Albany and Lebanon area. Volunteers are also needed to help in the office answering phones for a few hours one day a week. Call 541-928-2173 or email Volcaregivers@aol.com.
PUZZLE SOLUTIONS
CASA Court Appointed Special Advocates of Linn County serves abused and neglected children who are living in foster care. CASA volunteers help ensure each child's right to be safe and to learn and grow in the security of a loving family. Today, there are 170 children waiting for a CASA to be assigned to their case. Call 541926-2651 or go to www.linncasa.org. The Albany Call-A-Ride senior and disabled transportation program is looking for volunteers. Albany Call-A-Ride has openings for: volunteer dispatchers who must be detail-oriented, able to multi-task, and have some knowledge of computers and telephone skills. Volunteer drivers must have a valid driver's license, and a clean driving record. Drivers use city cars and insurance. Albany Call-A-Ride volunteers generally work a 4-hour shift one day per week. Call-A-Ride has current openings Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and from 12:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
CRYPTOGRAM: One day I will wake up, and it will all fit together
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Celebrate National Family Caregiver Month November is National Family Caregivers Month. It is a time to celebrate family caregivers; a time to thank, support, educate and empower family caregivers. According to Family Caregivers Alliance, 52 million caregivers provide care to adults with a disability or illness and caregiver services were valued at $450 billion per year in 2009 (the latest figures available). In the US, the population age 65 and older will more than double between the years 2000 and 2030, increasing to 71.5 million from 35.1 million in 2000. As the population ages, family caregiving needs will increase and caregivers will need a range of support services to gain caregiving skills, manage financial re-
sources and remain healthy themselves.
music and refreshments.
Please join us to learn about local support services and to honor the caregivers in Linn and Benton counties at the fifth annual Family Caregiver Celebration from 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm Thursday, November 14, at 1400 Queen Avenue SE, Albany in the Cascades West Senior and Disability Services conference room on the second floor. An elevator is available.
Representatives from agencies that offer support and resources for caregivers will be present to provide information and answer questions.
Everyone interested in the needs of caregivers should plan to attend. This year, the first 25 attendees will receive a gift and everyone will be entered for a number of prize drawings. Attendees can also enjoy
Three speakers are scheduled: Vicki Schmall, gerontologist, will present “Packing your Caregiver Toolkit,” and Cammie Bella, spiritual director and retired RN/family nurse practitioner, will speak on “Sowing the Seeds of Happiness." Elizabeth Bolte, physical therapist, will speak on "Body Mechanics.” For more information, call Deb Scobie at 541-924-8478.
OREGON CASCADES WEST COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS Senior Services Division is pleased to help publish
GENERATIONS For more information on: • Adult Foster Care • Outreach Services • Meals on Wheels • Information and Referral • Medicaid Longterm Care
• In-Home Care • OPI • Adult Protective Services • Community Resources
Call 541-967-8630 or 1-800-638-0510
541-336-2289 or 1-800-282-6194
TDD/VOICE in Benton and Linn counties
TDD/VOICE in Lincoln County
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I know I liked it, but I don't remember why: re-reading old favorites BY MARILYN SMITH Mom retired at age 70, from the one job she was meant to have - Harrisburg city librarian. What better vocation for someone who has spent much of her life (when not cooking, canning, doing housework, sewing, painting, crocheting, playing the piano, decorating cakes or holding hands with Daddy while watching TV) reading? Mom, curious about everything, read everything books, magazines, record album covers, menus, license plates, billboards, signs advertising in-store specials. Mom is still curious. She stopped driving at 84 so I'm one of the people who chauffeur her here and there, and she still reads billboards and signs and the sides of long-haul trucks and half the magazines
BOOK REVIEW in any waiting room - People, Entertainment Weekly, National Geographic, Time, Newsweek, Golf Digest (true story; she likes to watch golf on TV, too. Don't ask me why.) -- anything but Oprah. At a recent dentist visit, Mom picked up a National Geographic from May 2011 and proceeded to read me all the photo captions. "I'm sorry; this is boring," she said, glancing at me. "No, it's not, Mom," I replied. How many 60-yearolds have mothers to read aloud to them? Her assisted-living apartment is small, but the oak bookcase she was given at retirement has pride of place between her computer desk and her flat-screen
TV. Two of four shelves hold her favorite books, most of which she has read more than once. Years ago, she did it because they were good enough to read again. Today, Mom knows the names of books she likes, but doesn't always remember why she likes them. Unlike other aspects of aging, she's not bothered by this glitch at all. She looks forward to rediscovering what she's forgotten. "I'm losing some memory," she said, when I talked to her about this review. "For years, I haven't been able to remember word for word, but I know it's a good book."
out of the Harrisburg Elementary School library until we nearly wore it out. When Mom pulled the book out of its Christmas wrap, she looked at the cover - and didn't remember it at all. Her long-term memory is close to 100% but this slim illustrated gem had slipped through and been lost. She sort of remembered when she read it for the first time, again. Here are some she's not likely to ever forget, well, not completely: • "Boy's Life" by Robert McGammon (1991) • "The Plum Thicket" by Janice Holt Giles (1978) • "In Cold Blood" by Truman Capote (1965). "An awful story, so beautifully written."
Old favorites make good gifts and I've done my best to get her some. One major find was an in-the-dust-jacket, never-owned first-edition of Stephen King's "Different Seasons (1982)." She was thrilled - until she re-read it. "I didn't remember all those awful things," she said, sort of shuddering.
• The "Twilight" saga by Stephenie Meyer (2005) "Good, but they're for kids." (She read each one two or three times and has all the movie DVDs.)
Then it was "The Popcorn Dragon" by Jane Thayer (1953). Mom liked that book so much that my sister and I checked it
• "Water for Elephants" by Sara Gruen (2007). "It's a good story. I wish they'd followed it more in the movie."
• "Salem's Lot" by Stephen King (1975) • "Bombshell: The Life and Death of Jean Harlow" by David Stenn (1993)
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What would you like to see in Generations? 541-924-8421 or email AJOHNSON@ocwcog.org