Marin's Older Adult Community Connection Since 1954
Whistlestop APRIL 2013
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Whistlestop.org
LITA Pet Connection: Bringing Love to the Lonely
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he mission of LITA (Love is the Answer) is to improve the quality of life for persons living in skilled nursing facilities, residential care facilities, and retirement residences throughout Marin County by providing volunteer visitors. LITA promotes friendships that lessen isolation and loneliness, and increases public awareness of the needs of residents of longterm care facilities. LITA was founded in 1975 by Mae Wygant, who had volunteered in a nursing home and began recruiting friends and fellow church members to visit with lonely residents. When people move into a long-term care facility, they must often leave a beloved pet behind. This separation from their most constant companion is often the most devastating. The Pet Connection, one of LITA’s programs, involves a volunteer’s pet as part of their weekly visits. Volunteers and their pets are carefully matched with residents to foster ongoing friendships. Executive director Jenay Cottrell says that currently there are some 40 dog and cat visitors including several rescue dogs.
Whistlestop Chooses Housing Partner 2
Enrico is a happy-go-lucky Havanese, who visits an older adult with post stroke expressive aphasia. Darlene was very frustrated and self-conscious about her language deficits, and she withdrew from group social activities. Staff members advocated for pet visits, which have brought her comfort and companionship that does not require conversation. Enrico was surrendered for adoption because his family lost their home and left him behind when they moved. He has a new family and a new career that suits him perfectly. Betsy is a small terrier mix
How Horses Help Heal 6
who survived being struck by a car. She was rescued and rehabilitated after the loss of a hind leg. With typical terrier spunk, Betsy has not slowed down, and enjoys staying busy as the LITA dog at Stockstill House in West Marin. Betsy fetches a ball, takes walks around the backyard and sits on laps non-stop every Thursday. Wade is a cocker mix who was thrown over a chain link fence of a schoolyard in Los Angeles. The school called the Humane Society, and he found his way to his owner, Daisy. F To volunteer, contact Volunteer Director Meg Stiefvater,
Mockingbirds Virtuoso Songsters 11
Whistlestop
Table of
PERSPECTIvE
CONTENTS 3 4 5 6 7/8/9 10 11 12 14 15
New Café Manager Rocky's Pantry Rocky Packard Cutest Pets Therapeutic Horses Whistlestop Classes, Events Activities Calendar The Bird's Side of Marin Richard Pavek Multicultural News Vicky Voicehowsky & Sandra Jimenez Nona Knows Best Masekela Concert
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Marin Senior Coordinating Council, Inc. 930 Tamalpais Avenue San Rafael, CA 94901 Chief Executive Officer, Joe O’Hehir Board of Directors President, Dennis Thompson Vice President, Terry Scussel Treasurer, Michael Rice Secretary, Michael Hingson Development & Marketing Director, Yvonne Roberts Karen Arnold • Liza Cozad • Eleanor Delaney Venessa Dixon • Jane Lott • Debbie Mills Lori Peterson • Bill Saul • Lenice Smith • Bob Sonnenberg Whistlestop Express is a publication of the Marin Senior Coordinating Council, Inc. A 501 (c) 3 not-for-profit organization. The Mission of Whistlestop: Whistlestop believes that we share a responsibility to ensure that all Marin residents have an opportunity to age with dignity, grace and independence. Whistlestop Contact Information Main Number 415-456-9062 Whistlestop Fax 415-456-2858 www.whistlestop.org Information & Referral Office 415-459-6700 • resource@whistlestop.org Whistlestop Express Editorial, Art Direction & Sales John & Val Bowman Editors 916-751-9189 • john.bowman58@gmail.com Missy Reynolds Art Director mreynolds@pacificsun.com Advertising Linda Black • 415-485-6700, Ext. 306 Whistlestop Express is printed on recycled paper To be added to, or taken off, the email list for Whistlestop Express, please call 415-456-9062. Or send an email, with your request, your name and address to INFO@whistlestop.org. Subscriptions mailed to your home are $10/year.
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Whistlestop express APRIL 2013
By JOE O’HEHIR
Whistlestop Selects Eden Housing As Partner for Renaissance Project
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histlestop’s Board of Directors has selected Eden Housing to be the nonprofit housing partner for the renaissance project, which will feature a new Whistlestop building including inside parking, the Active Aging Center, the Jackson Café located on the Fourth Street side, and 50 affordable housing units. We spent several months W interviewing nonprofit housing developers, and we visited several senior affordable housing projects throughout the Bay area searching for the right partner organization for our renaissance project. We narrowed our choice down to three finalists. Based on a written proposal response, an interview with our selection committee, and a check of references, our Board chose Eden Housing. Similar to Whistlestop’s roots, Eden was born out of the vision, hard work, and entrepreneurialism of a few impassioned and dedicated community volunteers. These volunteers were concerned about the serious lack of high quality affordable housing and started their first project in 1968, rehabilitating six houses in Oakland for families who were buying their first homes. Each of the original founders worked – hands-on – with a family to complete one home. In 1971,
they started Eden Housing’s first multi-unit housing complex to provide 150 affordable rental-housing units for senior citizens in Hayward. The project, Josephine Lum Lodge, opened in 1973 and is still owned and operated by Eden today. Forty-five years from this beginning, Eden Housing has developed and acquired more than 7,000 residential units in cities throughout the San Francisco Bay Area, including several North Bay locations such as Novato, Mill
Similar to Whistlestop’s roots, Eden was born out of vision, hard work, and entrepreneurialism… Valley, and Petaluma. Eden’s most recent project, Warner Creek Senior Housing in Novato, is currently leasing and is a testament to the need for affordable housing in Marin County – management received more than 300 applications for 60 units! In addition to developing affordable housing, Eden also provides ongoing property management and resident services. Eden’s goal has been ccontinued on page 4
It’s Cuisine for a $5 Meal
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harmina Pariani first learned of Whistlestop when she saw an ad for a job on craigslist. “It was remarkable,” she said. “Everything in the ad made me say, ‘Yep, that’s me.’” She was hired in the transportation department Jackson Café Manager, in May of last year. In Charmina Pariani. January, she saw an in-house ad about a managerial position in the Jackson Café and she applied. She got the job. She was well prepared for it with her seven plus years experience at Drake Terrace Senior Living. She worked there in all areas, including as a server and as supervisor of the dining room. She had not eaten in the Jackson Café before, and she was pleasantly surprised with her first meal. She says the food is beautiful as well as nutritional and healthy. “The chefs make an art of it. It’s cuisine really, and you wouldn’t expect that from a $5 meal.” Charmina has already made many improvements in the service. She meets with the volunteers and says the café is now fully staffed, with double the number of volunteers. She wants to respond to customer and volunteer concerns and has worked to shorten lines during lunch. She says customers and volunteers are happy with her new ideas and she’s happy with her new job. F
Did You Know? Whistlestop serves more than 17,000 low-cost meals a year to Marin County residents at our onsite Jackson Café, 930 Tamalpais Ave., San Rafael. Not only is the food good, but the café has become a popular place to socialize during lunchtime.
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2013
Blue Door Seminar Schedule 1003 Third Street, San Rafael
ApRil 23 • 7pm-9pm estate planning 101
Redwood High School J. R. Hastings, J.D., explores your legal estate plan: What you need to know. What you need to decide.
Free:TELECONFERENCE
Why You Should Have an Estate Plan. - April 4 @11am - April 11 @ 6pm
ApRil 24 • 7pm-9pm Advocating for Your Health Care
J.R. Hastings, J.D., with guest speaker Laurel Etheridge, Certified Geriatric Care Manager, discuss how to speak up and attain better attention to your health needs and effective use of: Health Care Directives, Living Wills, DNR’s and POLSTs.
For more estate plan information visit: jrhastingslaw.com and estateplanning.com Reserve a Seat Today on Our Website
www.jrhastingslaw.com/event.php or Telephone 415-459-6635
whistlestop.org 3
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Whistlestop express APRIL 2013
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his dipping sauce works well as a dressing for summer salads or as a dipping sauce for grilled prawns or chicken brochettes. 1/3 Cup 1/4 Cup 2 Tbs 1T Tsp 1T Tsp 1T Tsp
Creamy peanut butter Chicken stock or water Coconut milk Fresh lime juice Soy Sauce Fish Sauce Pepper sauce to taste, Tabasco or Sirrachi sauce Combine all ingredients in a food processor and pulse to a smooth consistency. F continued from page 2
to create communities that enable residents to thrive. For senior developments this means creating environments that help residents age in place, encouraging them to live independently for as long as they can. “Many of the seniors we serve cannot afford assisted living, so our goal is to provide service-enhanced, affordable living that encourages long-term independent living,” said Linda Mandolini, Eden Housing President. “We have done a number of developments that are colocated with senior centers, most recently colocating with On-Lok in Fremont. We believe this partnership with Whistlestop is not just a good opportunity for our future residents, but is also a model that other community builders and activists can replicate when considering how to grapple with a rapidly aging population. We are thrilled to be a part of this next stage of the Whistlestop community and look forward to working together.” We plan to provide periodic updates about W the renaissance project to Whistlestop Express readers in future editions. Joe O’Hehir is Whistlestop’s CEO. F J
Call for PETS
Is Your Pet the Cutest?
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histlestop Express is looking for photos of your cute pets. Do you have the sweetest Labradoodle or the perkiest Pekingese? The smartest rescue dog or the fastest Tibetan Terrier? We’d love to see them. Send a photo (jpeg),along with your name, hometown and pet’s name, to john.bowman58@ gmail.com or drop it off at the Whistlestop, 930 Tamalpais Drive, San Rafael. You can add a line or two about what makes your pet so special.
This is Bob Lemon. He lives with Josie Lemon and Greg Pickford in Mill Valley. They say, “Bob is a good eater.”
Marin County’s Choice for Home Health Care To arrange for care or learn more about our services, please call 415.492.4600 or visit us online at www.SutterCareAtHome.org www.facebook.com/SutterCareAH Visiting Nurses • Home Care • Mom/Baby Visits Locally Based • Not For Profit Sutter Care at Home offers you the most comprehensive range of home care services available.
whistlestop.org 5
Stability Matters.
Older Horses Help Older Adults Through Grieving Process
A Consistent Leadership. Exceptional Care. Our community is part of Elder Care Alliance, a non-profit organization that can trace its roots back to 1872. This long-standing tradition of care, along with innovative leadership and devoted staff, means older adults and their loved ones can enjoy the peace of mind they so richly deserve.
Come visit our warm community!
415.233.6095 almaviaofsanrafael.org AlmaVia of San Rafael, an Elder Care Alliance community is cosponsored by the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas West Midwest Community & the Sierra Pacific Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. RCFE Lic # 216801868.
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Whistlestop express APRIL 2013
t Equine Insights in San rafael, horses help people work through and heal from emotional wounds. Judy Weston-Thompson, MFT, CEIF-MH, a psychotherapist for 25 years, started integrating horses into her practice about five years ago. She works with clients of all ages, including older adults. “So many seniors have grief issues,” she said, “They have lost friends or loved ones. So have our horses, all approaching or older than 20 years old. So they understand one another.” Weston-Thompson learned the power of W horses in healing through a personal experience. She bought three horses and one of them was especially challenging. Working through those challenges with that horse was therapeutic for her and the horse. She decided to share this experience with others. She is a certified psychotherapist with special training for working with horses to help people. “Clients find this is such a powerful way to heal.” Three horses work with Judy and her clients at her San rafael facility. They are Caesar and Calysta, both quarter horses, and Star, an 1,800-pound Draft Percheron. They develop remarkable relationships with these human clients, often from the get-go. “They will go right up to someone they want to work with,” Weston-Thompson said. She recalled the time a woman with a prosthetic leg came for therapy. The woman was sitting on a chair outside, and Calysta walked up to her and soon their eyes locked. “They just stared at each other for several minutes,” Judy said “It was trance-like. The connection was incredible.” She said that clients who work with the horses move through their issues very quickly. The work for her is extremely gratifying. “I leave at the end of the day quite energized. I believe I have always been highly intuitive, something every therapist needs. But these horses have deepened my intuitive instincts.” F Photos and videos of this specialized therapy can P be found on the website: www.equineinsight.net.
Keep Learning at WHISTLESTOP
For a complete list of classes, visit whistlestop.org
A Trip Around the World Wednesday, Apr. 17 • Noon-2pm • Jackson Café Fee: $10 for lunch and a fabulous show No registration is required; pay at the door Come celebrate the 20th year Anniversary of the Multicultural Department by taking a trip around the world. We will celebrate the diversity of all of our cultures with delicious food and wonderful live entertainment, Cabaret-style, provided by Luzina & Tom Tison Promotions. NEW! Russian Social Group Thursdays • 1-2pm Whistlestop has a new Russian social group. This is a great opportunity for Russian speakers to have a support group and a good time in the community. If you are interested in participating or know someone who is, please contact Vicky Voicehowsky at 4570586 or Anna Ladyzhenskaya at 336-8430. French Social Group Tuesdays • 1-2pm Information: Call Vicky Voicehowsky, 457-0586 Whistlestop has a new French Social group on Tuesday afternoons and needs French speakers to attend. Please help spread the word or come and join us! French Class Tuesdays • Noon-1pm Fee: Free | Level: Basic-Intermediate Registration: Call Vicky Voicehowsky, 457-0586 Learn to speak the language of love with Susan Duncan, who has been teaching French for 18 years in Marin County. NEW! Imparare l’italiano! (Learn Italian!) Tuesdays &Thursdays • 3-4pm • Starting in May Fee: $24/month Information: Contact Sandra Jimenez, 454-0998 Registration is required. Learn Italian with our new teacher Elizabeth Guagenti. Elizabeth has a Bachelor’s degree in Italian Language and Literature from UCLA. She spent a year in University of Padova, Italy.
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whistlestop.org 7
Keep Learning at WHISTLESTOP
For a complete list of classes, visit whistlestop.org
DO YO Y u WANT W TO BE A TuTOR? The Multicultural Department is looking for volunteer tutors to help our older adults learn English. This is a great opportunity to help others better integrate into our community. Hours are flexible. If interested, please contact Vicky Voicehowsky, 457-0586. JEWELRY EWELRY CLASS Once a Month: Thursday, Apr. 18 • 1:30-2:45pm Fee: $8 per class (Includes materials) Registration and payment required prior to class Maximum space available: 10 people Maria Barsesat, local bead artist, will show you how to make beautiful, simple and easy jewelry items for yourself or as gifts. GOLDENAIRES OLDENAIRES SuNDAY NDAY DANCES Apr. 28 • 2-5pm A Fee: $10 General Admission, $7 Goldenaires Members Please join us every last Sunday of the month at the San Rafael Community Center for some wonderful dancing. Featuring a live band, The Manny Gutierrez Quartet; snacks and refreshments, great wood floor, plenty of parking, open to the public/singles and couples. DROP-IN COMPuTER TER LAB Mondays & Wednesdays • 10am - Noon Volunteer computer tutors are available to work with you one-on-one if needed. DIGITAL PHOTO CLASS Beginning: 1st Wednesday • 2-4pm Advanced: 2nd Wednesday • 2-4pm Fee: $15 | Instructor: Gene Dyer Registration required: 459-6700 Call for more information and class descriptions.
Marin County Commission on Aging Thursday, April 11 • 10am-12:30 pm Where: Maria B. Freitas Sr. Community, 455 Freitas Pkwy, San Rafael Topic: Area Plan on Aging Public Hearing Speaker: Division of Aging & Adult Services 8
Whistlestop express APRIL 2013
vOLuNTEER NTEER OPPORTuNITIES Be a part of the incredible Whistlestop family of volunteers, have fun, inspire others, and gain the satisfaction of being an active member of your community. Contact: Millie at 456-9062 x117 or volunteer@ whistlestop.org • Exercise Instructor • Board/Card Game Leaders • Bi-lingual Computer Teacher • English Tutors • Jackson Café Servers • Information and Referral Office Volunteer • Drivers for Meals on Wheels IN-KIND DONATIONS NEEDED Mah Jongg sets, Chess set, Dominos, Ping Pong table, books, yarn, movies on DVDs. If you have items to donate, call 456-9062. WHISTLESTOP HOME-DELIvERED GROCERY ROCERY PROGRAM This program is available for homebound older adults (60+) who live in San Rafael and need shopping assistance. There is a one-time sign-up fee of $10 and delivery is free. Older adults pay only for the groceries and they can use the program on a weekly, monthly, or shorter basis. This program is a partnership between Episcopal Senior Communities, Novato Independent Elders Program, and San Rafael Safeway. For eligibility, or if you would like to volunteer, call 456-9062 x117. FREE BLOOD PRESSuRE CLINIC, MEDICATIONS AND BLOOD SuGAR GAR CHECKS Tuesday, Apr. 9 • 11:30am-1pm • Arcade Facilitators: Student nurses from Dominican University Drop-in Bring all of your medications and supplements to find out how and when to take them, how to store them, possible side effects, or interactions with other drugs. Don’t miss this opportunity to prevent health problems by keeping your blood pressure, meds and sugar in check. EATING FOR YO Y uR R HEALTH/T / RIGGER POINT /T MASSAGES PRESENTATION Tuesday, Apr. 16 • 1-2:30pm • Boardroom Presented by: Dr. Paul Podjowski, La Vita Chiropractic Registration requested: Call 456-9062 (Space limited) Fee: Free
This workshop will explain the proper methods of combining appropriate food groups for optimum digestion and maximum energy. It also uncovers the secrets to fueling your immune system and eating to decrease your risk of cancer. Dr. Paul will also offer free Trigger Point Massages. How to Make the Most of Your Doctor’s Visit Thursday, Apr. 18 • 10-11am • Caboose 2 Presented by: Student Nurses from Dominican University Registration requested: Call 456-9062 | Fee: Free In this presentation, Nursing Students from Dominican University will help you prepare for a doctor’s visit. They will talk about how to ask your doctor valuable and helpful questions, how to manage your priorities during the visit, and what to make sure you know before you leave. Brain/Memory Health Games Presentation Tuesday, Apr. 23 • 11-12:30pm • Lounge Presented by: Student Nurses from Dominican University Registration requested: Call 456-9062 | Fee: Free Come learn how to strengthen and stretch your mind through games — Sudoku, puzzles, banana-grams, and word scramble! We’ll talk about the best foods to feed your brain and discuss ways to increase brain health through exercise, healthy sleep and healthy lifestyle. Come share your thoughts and learn new things with Dominican nursing students. Restore & Improve Your Balance Training Class Tuesdays • 2:30-3:30pm • Jackson Café Suggested Donation: $10 Registration requested; drop-ins welcome Thomas Attardi, BS, MA, NMT, has been working in the health and healing rehabilitation field since 1992, primarily with the physically challenged with sustained disabilities, impairments or limitations in their overall physical well-being. You will learn exercises for stronger legs to prevent falls and what to do if you do fall. Bring a water bottle and 1-lb. or 2-lb. weights to class.
Discover Enchanting Slovenia Thursday, Apr. 11 • 2-3pm • Caboose 2 Fee: Free Join us for a travel presentation on Slovenia by Zoya Pinto, a native of this beautifully scenic part of Europe. Various influences from Roman Empire, Venice Republic to Austro-Hungarian Empire left their marks on Slovenian history, architecture, language and way of life. In the video, Zoya will introduce you to the most intriguing places, such as Ljubljana, the vibrant political and cultural capital; Ptuj, the oldest town, dating back to the Stone Age; year-round breath-taking resorts of Bled and Bohinj Lakes; the dramatic Julian Alps; the mysterious caves of Postojna; and charming sea resorts of Piran, Bernardin and Portoroz. You may qualify for a free computer! Marin Computer Resource Center is a nonprofit Environmental Electronics Recycler that refurbishes and gives away free computers to those in need. Download an individual application at: www.mcrc.org or pick up an application in the main office at Whistlestop. They are located at 42 Digital Drive, Suite 3, Novato 883-1428. Mon-Fri: 10am- 6pm and Saturday 10am- 4pm. Thank you Bread & Roses! All of us here at Whistlestop want to say a big thank you to Bread & Roses for providing live entertainment for our special luncheons throughout the year. The music groups are high quality, and the musicians are caring volunteers. Our reward is watching people walk out from our special luncheons with big smiles on their faces. Music is healing and uplifting. We appreciate the hard work you do to supply live music to many agencies. Thank you for thinking of Whistlestop.
Important Numbers Marin Access Call Center: 454-0902 Get Qualified to Ride: 456-9062, x106 eligibility@whistlestop.org Schedule a Ride: 454-0964 Cancel a Ride: 457-4630 STAR Volunteer Driving: 454-0969 Meals on Wheels: 457-4636 whistlestop.org 9
Whistlestop Weekly ACTIVITIES This Month at Whistlestop CLASS
INFO
COST
Relax Chair Massage Open $4/8min. Language AM Monday 457-0586 Free Learn Computer Lab Open Free Language Persian Social Group 472-6020 Free Exercise Movement & Music 456-9062 Free Language English as a 456-9062 $15 Second Language (ESL) 3:30–5PM Language Citizenship Class 454-0998 $25
9–2PM
10–11AM 10–NOON 10:30AM–1PM 11–NOON 2–3:30PM
9:15–10:15 AM 10:00–NOON 10:45–11:45AM 11–12:30PM Noon–1PM Noon–3PM 1–2PM 1–3PM 2–3:30PM
Exercise Whistlesizers Open $2 Relax Mah Jongg Open Free Exercise Cardio Exercise Class Open Free Language German Social Group Open Free Language French Class 457-0586 Free Relax Manicurist Appt. Needed Free Language French Social Group 457-0586 Free Language Learn Spanish Open Free Language English Conversation 454-0998 $10
wednesdays thursdays
Exercise Tai Chi Qigong Sugg. Donation $10 or less Support Seniors' Circle Open Free Learn Computer Lab Open Free Language Persian Social Group 472-6020 Free Support Corazón Latino Open Free Language English as a 456-9062 $15 Second Language (ESL)
9–10:15AM 10–11:30AM 10–12PM 10:30AM–1:30PM 10:30–11:30AM 2–3:30PM
9:15–10:15AM 10–NOON 11–NOON 2–3:30PM 2–4PM 2:30–3:30PM
Exercise Whistlesizers Open $2 Relax Knit!!! 457-0586 Free Exercise Zumba Open $6 Language English Conversation 454-0998 $10 Support Writing Workshop Open Free Exercise Balance Class Sugg. Donation $10
fridays
tuesdays
mondays
TIME
11:30–12:30PM 1:30–3:30PM 1:30–3:30PM 2–4PM 2–4PM 2:30–3:30PM
Support Brown Bag Pantry 456-9062 Free Support ACASA Peer Counseling Free Language Practice Spanish Open Free Learn Arts & Crafts w/Vicky April 5 & 19 $3 Exercise Ping-Pong April 12 & 26 Free Exercise Yoga Open $3
For a complete list of all classes, visit whistlestop.org
Jackson Café
Monday-Friday 11am-1:30pm Located in Whistlestop Active Aging Center • Open to the Public •
Lunch Menu 60+ Prices/Under 60 PriceS (Prices Subject to Change)
Main Entrée $4.95/$6.95 (+$1 for Seafood Entrées) Sandwiches $4.25/$6.25 Soup du Jour $1.75 cup/$2.95 bowl Hamburger w/Fries $4.25/$6.25 Garden/Caesar Salads $3.50-$4.50 Other Items Tuna Salad Side $1.25 Beverages $1.00 Desserts/Fruit $2.00 Cheese $0.50 Avocado $1.00
The Caboose, Computer Lab, Board Room and Jackson Café are all located at Whistlestop’s Active Aging Center – 930 Tamalpais Ave., San Rafael. 10 Whistlestop Express APRIL 2013
by R I C H A R D PAV E K Photos © richard pavek
The Bird's Side OF MARIN
Mockingbirds, Virtuoso Songsters
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ctually, I think Mockingbirds are misnamed; they should be called “Mimicbirds” because they do not mock other birds or sounds, they mimic them. And they are great mimics, rapidly learning to copy almost any call of any songbird they hear. Some learn as many as 200 calls. And not only bird sounds; they have been known to mimic cell phone rings, ambulance sirens, squeaky gates, car horns, penny whistles and other musical instruments. Much of the Mockingbird’s singing is to attract a mate, and the males do it while perform-
ing a little aerial dance. Typically the male will perch on a tree top, then jump up and fly vertically for several feet, then fly level for a few feet and finally return at an angle to the tree top. All in the space of three or four seconds, and while singing its little heart out! To catch these birds in the air I had to aim at a blank space where I hoped they would jump and trigger the shot as soon as they jumped. I got more misses than hits but here are a few. Every weekend I email a special bird photo to Express readers, free. If you’d like to be on the list, just ask me at SHENmaker@MSN.com. F ‘Til next month, Richard whistlestop.org 11
Multicultural NEWS
by vICKY vOICEHOWSKY and SANDRA JIMENEZ
A Trip Around the World
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or the past 20 years, Whistlestop has become the second home to many people from around the world. Whistlestop is a vital community resource for immigrant older adults and their families in Marin County. The
Computers Made Easy Spring into action... Sign up for my small group classes on iPhones/iPads, Excel, Word, Google products and Facebook. Why struggle? Make it easy! easy Contact Debbie to learn more: (415) 475-1930
debbie@made-easy.net | www.made-easy.net Small group and one-on-one tutoring options. Mac and PC. Email - Word Processing - Internet - Smartphones - Social Networking…and More!
Helping You Maintain Your Independence
As everyday life becomes more challenging, a little help can go a long way.
A sample of our services: •Grocery HospiceShopping Care Care Care •• Memory Alzheimer’s • Companion Care Med Reminders Meals • Bathing/Dressing Med Reminders •Prepare Housekeeping Housekeeping • Laundry Bathing/Dressing •Light Transportation to Appointment • Cooking Laundry •Drive Run Errands •Run PostErrands Surgery Care Much More! • And And Much More!
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12 Whistlestop express APRIL 2013
Active Aging Center provides Multicultural programs and services, which support older adults and their families by encouraging independence, well-being and connection to the community. Through our vibrant social groups, including Hispanic, Persian, ru r ssian, German, and French, we provide an opportunity for the multi-lingual older adult to make friends, speak their language, learn and stay active. We would not be what we are today without them. Whistlestop participant Zahra Hatamaria, a native from Iran, commutes from Santa rosa twice a week to be with her friends in the Persian Social Group. The three hour trip on public transportation is not an obstacle for her. She enjoys being with her people, sharing stories, studying English with her friends and enjoying lunch at the Jackson Café. For Amalia Camacho, a native from Mexico, being 82 years old has been the best year of her life. She started coming to Whistlestop in November, and now comes every day. When asked why it is important for her to come to the center, she replied, “I leave Whistlestop feeling better than when I came in.” Amalia also believes that becoming an active participant at Whistlestop has been a huge blessing. “I have been able to share my wisdom, love, peace and humility with others who are just as willing to share all of those wonderful values with me.” We love to hear stories like these. They tell us W how much Whistlestop means for many people and the great impact it has on their lives. The Multicultural Department is celebrating its 20th year anniversary this month. We would like to honor the diversity and uniqueness that exists at Whistlestop. Join us for lunch and a show on Wednesday, April 17 from noon to 2pm for a wonderful cabaret-style event. Special entertainment will be provided by Luzina & Tom Tison Promotions. For more information, call Sandra or Vicky at 456-9062. We hope to see you all there! F
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Finally, a cell phone that’s... a phone.
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FREE
Car Charger
ng Sou Bett er nd er Ba a tte nd ry Li fe
Introducing the all-new Jitterbug® Plus. We’ve made it even better… without making it harder to use. All my friends have new cell phones. They carry them around with them all day, like mini computers, with little tiny keyboards and hundreds of programs which are supposed to make their life easier. Trouble is… my friends can’t use them. The keypads are too small, the displays are hard to see and the phones are so complicated that my friends end up borrowing my Jitterbug when they need to make a call. I don’t mind… I just got a new phone too… the new Jitterbug Plus. Now I have all the things I loved about my Jitterbug phone along with some great new features that make it even better! GreatCall® created the Jitterbug with one thing in mind– to offer people a cell phone that’s easy to see and hear, simple to use and affordable. Now, they’ve made the cell phone experience even better with the Jitterbug Plus. It features a lightweight, comfortable design with a backlit keypad and big, legible numbers. There is even a dial tone so you know the phone is ready to use. You can also increase the volume with one touch and the speaker’s been improved so you get great audio quality and can hear every word. The battery has been improved too– it’s one of the longest lasting on the market– so you won’t have to charge it as often. The phone comes to you with your account already set up and is easy to activate.
Monthly Minutes Monthly Rate
Basic 14
Basic 19
50
was 100 NOW 200
$14.99
$19.99
Operator Assistance
24/7
24/7
911 Access
FREE
FREE
No add’l charge
No add’l charge
FREE
FREE
YES
YES
30 days
30 days
Long Distance Calls Voice Dial Nationwide Coverage Friendly Return Policy
1
More minute plans available. Ask your Jitterbug expert for details.
sign, you are not locked in for years at a time and won’t be subject to early termination fees. The U.S.-based customer service is knowledgeable and helpful and the phone gets service virtually anywhere in the continental U.S. Above all, you’ll get one-touch access to a friendly, and helpful GreatCall operator. They can look up numbers, and even dial them for you! They are always there to help you when you need them.
Call now and receive 100 FREE Minutes and FREE Car Charger The rate plans are simple too. Why pay – a $41.98 value. Try the Jitterbug Available in for minutes you’ll never use? There are Plus for yourself for 30 days and Silver and Red. a variety of affordable plans. Plus, you don’t if you don’t love it, just return it for a have to worry about finding yourself stuck with no minutes– that’s refund1 of the product purchase price. Call now – helpful Jitterbug the problem with prepaid phones. Since there is no contract to experts are ready to answer your questions.
Order now and receive 100 Free Minutes and a Car Charger for your Jitterbug – a $41.98 value. Call now!
Jitterbug Plus Cell Phone
Call today to get your own Jitterbug Plus. Please mention promotional code 49785.
1-877-569-8634
We proudly accept the following credit cards.
47578
www.jitterbugdirect.com
IMPORTANT CONSUMER INFORMATION: Jitterbug is owned by GreatCall, Inc. Your invoices will come from GreatCall. All rate plans and services require the purchase of a Jitterbug phone and a one-time set up fee of $35. Coverage and service is not available everywhere. Other charges and restrictions may apply. Screen images simulated. There are no additional fees to call Jitterbug’s 24-hour U.S. Based Customer Service. However, for calls to an Operator in which a service is completed, minutes will be deducted from your monthly balance equal to the length of the call and any call connected by the Operator, plus an additional 5 minutes. Monthly rate plans do not include government taxes or assessment surcharges. Prices and fees subject to change. 1We will refund the full price of the Jitterbug phone if it is returned within 30 days of purchase in like-new condition.We will also refund your first monthly service charge if you have less than 30 minutes of usage. If you have more than 30 minutes of usage, a per minute charge of 35 cents will apply for each minute over 30 minutes. The activation fee and shipping charges are not refundable. Jitterbug and GreatCall are registered trademarks of GreatCall, Inc. Samsung is a registered trademark of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Copyright ©2013 Samsung Telecommunications America, LLC. Copyright ©2013 GreatCall, Inc. Copyright ©2013 by firstSTREET for Boomers and Beyond, Inc. All rights reserved.
whistlestop.org 13
Nona Knows Best
by mary ann maggiore
T
his column, Nona Know Best, wisdom for grandparents, is a new feature of the Whistlestop Express. This space formerly was occupied each month by the words of Audrey Mettel Fixmer (GrandMom). Audrey has decided to retire from writing and spend more time savoring life and visiting with grandchildren. Mary Ann Maggiore, a former Mayor of Fairfax and president of Five 4 Five, consults for families, teens and young adults. Reach her at maryannmaggiore@gmail.com.
I
• • • • •
magine you are a newborn. You’ve spent nine months in a serene environment where all your needs are taken care of. Suddenly you must do things like breathing, eating, peeing and pooping very differently. When things don’t go easily for you, you do the only thing you can do. You cry. Your parents try to make you comfortable. But you are having none of it. What you need is a calm, loving, firm, experience. What you need is a Nona—Italian for Grandma. In every culture around the world, grandparents have been helping to comfort, feed and raise the next generations. Our knowledge comes from experience, ancient lessons and love for our own children and the new children they bring into this world. Here are some ways you as a Nona or Nono can help your children. Begin Before the Birth Your first concern is the baby’s parents. It is
of marin
• • • •
SPECIALISTS IN GERIATRIC IN-HOME THERAPY AND WELLNESS
Specialized treatment for a variety of problems Balance and Fall Prevention Programs Visits are up to 60 minutes of personalized therapy Seniors are eligible to receive outpatient therapy in their homes under Medicare Part B
800-931-5769
Jennifer Holland, PT Licensed Physical Therapist CA Lic #10957
14 Whistlestop Express APRIL 2013
best, before the baby is born, to ask them what they think they will need. Do they want you to come to their house before the due date to help set up? Do they Mary Ann Maggiore with her granddaughter want you and her daughter. in the labor room? Do they want you to stay over a few days afterward? Don’t be afraid to say what you would like to do, too. And don’t be offended if their plan is not yours. Adapt. Keep the relating loving and supportive. Remember you are there to serve. This is not about you; this is about them. Be Consistently Positive. The new family may be feeling a little confused, a little wobbly. Tell them what they are doing right. Give gentle assurances whenever you can. “You are holding your baby so well, look how she falls asleep in your arms.” Don’t forget to reassure the baby, too. “You’re okay,” you whisper when the baby is fretful or having those first frightening poops. Nourish Without Asking. You know their favorite foods, the best juices and soups. Go ahead, make them and offer them. If they are not interested now, don’t press. This is why refrigerators were invented. Take up the Dirty Work. Babies bring mess. Create order. Straighten up the living room twice a day. When the young mother gets up to go to the bathroom, remake the bed. Do laundry. Take out trash. Quietly, please. Give the Couple Space. Go out for a walk; take a drive for an hour or two. Don’t ask for directions or bother them for details. Just pick a time or leave a note while they are resting, and go. Let the household breathe. Give yourself some distance to see and feel all the power they are going through. And all the power you are going through, too. F
South African Music Legend, Grammy Winning Songwriter
H
ugh Masekela will appear in concert April 27 at Marin Veterans Memorial Auditorium, 10 Avenue of the Flags at Civic Center Drive in San rafael. The legendary South African jazz trumpeter, composer and songwriter, will perform at 8 pm. Masekela’s song Bring Him Back Home became the anthem for Nelson Mandala’s world tour following his release from prison. Masekela has performed with Paul Simon, Stevie Wonder and other celebrities. Tickets range from $20 to $40. Order tickets through the Marin Center Box Office, 473-6800 or online at www.marincenter.org. F
Celebrating volun v teers
N
ational Volunteer Week, April 21-27, is a time to celebrate people doing extraordinary things through service. Established in 1974, National Volunteer Week focuses national attention on the impact and power of volunteerism and service as an integral aspect of our civic leadership. The week draws the support and endorsement of the President and Congress, governors, mayors and municipal leaders, as well as corporate and community groups across the country. The theme — Celebrating People in Action — honors individuals who take action and solve significant problems in their communities. Since our nation’s founding, volunteers have been the source of action and change. Two hundred and thirty-five years later, their energy continues to move our country forward. Advances in technology and social networking make volunteering even simpler. For volunteer opportunities at Whistlestop, call Millie Makarewicz, 456-9062 x 117. F
Thank You to Our Major Sponsors for the Marin valen v tine’s Ball Brayton Purcell Wells Fargo Autodesk Bank of Marin The Brown Family Collins & Company Comcast Michelle & Kevin Douglas Jones Lang LaSalle Kaiser Permanente Kforce Professional Staffing KPMG Levin Simes LLP
Marin Sanitary Service Microsoft Novo Construction Sherwin Williams Paint Co. Trainor Commercial Construction Umpqua Bank Union Bank
Whistlestop’s
GOLF TOuRNAMENT Whistlestop Golf Tourney Set for May 17
T
he 7th annual Whistlestop Golf Tournament will tee off at noon on Friday, May 17, at the StoneTree Golf Club in Novato. The tournament will open with a shotgun start. It will close with a 19th hole cocktail party at the club. For more information call 415-456-9062 or go to www.whistlestop.org/events. The tournament honors Whistlestop bus drivers. F
whistlestop.org 15
Whistlestop
E press Marin Senior Coordinating Council 930 Tamalpais Avenue San Rafael, CA 94901-3325 Whistlestop.org
The Bay Area’s Top Choice for Professional In-Home Care Opens NEW Marin Office!
Meet Home Care Assistance, known for providing the industry’s best caregivers! • We are the only senior care company with a Home Care University to train and develop our caregiver employees. We also offer culinary training through Sur La Table to improve our caregivers’ skills along with our clients’ nutrition. • We have been endorsed by Harvard geriatrician, Dr. Dennis McCullough, and University of Washington Geriatrics Clinical Director, Dr. David Carr, among others. • We have produced an award-winning senior wellness book series, including Happy to 102 and Mind Over Gray Matter, and a renowned healthy longevity webinar series in partnership with the American Society on Aging.
Don’t settle for anything less, get the best in care! Talk to a Home Care Expert Today: 415-603-0574 • HomeCareAssistance.com 919 Sir Francis Drake Blvd. Ste.107, Kentfield Danville • Oakland • Los Gatos • San Mateo • San Francisco • Palo Alto 16 Whistlestop Express APRIL 2013