Whistlestop 930 Tamalpais Avenue San Rafael, CA 94901 www.whistlestop.org
Whistlestop PERSPECTIVE By JOE O’HEHIR
To have the Express emailed sign up at whistlestop.org For annual subscription mailed to your home, send $10 to Whistlestop. Our Mission Whistlestop believes we share a responsibility to ensure all Marin residents have an opportunity to age with dignity, independence and grace. Whistlestop: Main office: Open 8:30am-5pm M-F 415-456-9062 Transportation 415-454-0902 Meals on Wheels 415-457-4636 Help Desk 415-459-6700, resource@whistlestop.org WHISTLESTOP STAFF Joe O’Hehir CEO Tom Roberts Chief Operating Officer Yvonne Roberts info@whistlestop.org Development and Marketing Director Anita Renzetti Director of Program Innovation Marty Orgel Marketing and Communications Specialist John and Val Bowman 916-751-9189, john.bowman58@gmail.com Whistlestop Express Editors Susan Stratman Mobility Services Manager Laurie Vermont volunteer@whistlestop.org Volunteer Manager Diana Gruhl Program Manager BOARD OF DIRECTORS President — Dennis Ryan Vice President — Etta Allen Treasurer — Karen Arnold Secretary — Cynthia Wuthmann Sharon Jackson • Lenice Smith • Robert Sonnenberg PACIFIC SUN STAFF Rozan Donals rdonals@pacificsun.com Danielle McCoy dmccoy@pacificsun.com Advertising Phaedra Strecher pstrecher@pacificsun.com Art Director Missy Reynolds — Cover design
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5,000 Reasons to Love My Job
T
he theme of this edition of the Whistlestop Express is centered on how Whistlestop enriches the lives of older adults. Their stories are both inspiring and encouraging. I am completing my seventh year as CEO for Whistlestop and, like our clients, I too am thriving and loving my job. What’s not to love? I get to work with an incredible staff of over 175 dedicated people who day in and day out provide valuable human needs services to Marin’s older adults and individuals with disabilities. Whether someone needs a ride, a meal, social connection, or information and assistance, our caring staff is there for them. I admire our staff’s patience and compassion for each and every client we serve; they are all truly inspirational. I’m fortunate to be able to call them my coworkers. Whistlestop is blessed to have over 190 active volunteers who support our efforts to ensure that every adult in Marin has the opportunity to age with dignity, independence, and grace. The majority of our
WHISTLESTOP EXPRESS AUGUST 2015
volunteers are themselves older adults helping others thrive in our community. Whether it’s serving a lunch at Jackson Café, delivering meals to homebound individuals, driving someone to their doctor’s appointment, handing out food at our Brown Bag Pantry, teaching a class, leading a group activity, or staffing the Information and Assistance desk, Whistlestop’s volunteers are always there for our clients with a helping hand and a smile on their face. We would not be able to help the 5,000 clients we serve without the over 16,000 donated volunteer hours from this very special group. One of the things I love best about my job is having the opportunity to personally thank the thousands of donors who support Whistlestop’s mission. Their ranks have grown significantly during the past five years. Without the generous financial support from the community, we would not be able to manage the growth in demand for Whistlestop’s services. An increasing number of older adults
are able to thrive in our community thanks to the generosity and support of our donors. Most importantly, I love my job because I get to interact with some amazing and inspirational older adults who are Whistlestop participants. When I’m having a particularly challenging day at the office, I sometimes get up and walk around our Active Aging Center to experience the thriving environment. I may observe a lively Zumba class and feel the energy. Then I’ll drop by the computer lab and watch a young adult helping an older adult learn how to use an iPad. I also like to eavesdrop on one of our many multicultural group activities and listen to the variety of languages spoken. There is laughter and engagement throughout the center, and it is invigorating. Love my job? You bet I do. I can count 5,000 reasons every day. Joe O’Hehir is Chief Executive Officer of Whistlestop.
The highest standards in providing home care
O
ur team of senior care specialists at Independent Senior Care will provide your loved ones with dedicated care and attention at home.
We will provide the following services: • Meal preparation • Medication reminders • Assist with light exercise • Personal care assistance • Errands and appointments
• Monitor conditions of the home and individual • Friendly companionship and conversation • Vacation and Respite care
These and many more home care solutions can be brought to you at home. For a customized care plan, please set an appointment with our care coordinator. We will be happy to meet you in person for a consultation.
Call us at 415-246-6285 for assistance www.independentseniorcareca.com Irma and three adorable puppies.
Promoting Active and Independent Lives
I
only thing you have Where the
to worry about
getting better. is
By JOHN BOWMAN magine a gym, a place to learn Italian and the latest computer apps, a dance hall, a friendly café and a place to play mahjongg — all under one roof. There is such a place in San Rafael, at 930 Tamalpais Ave. It’s called Whistlestop and it has been providing all of these services plus convenient transportation and much more to older adults in Marin County for more than 60 years.
Skilled Nursing:
Whistlestop’s Active Aging Center is at the heart of Downtown San Rafael and provides a vibrant, creative heartbeat of activity for older adults who are aged 60 and above — some well into their 90s. For those who find themselves isolated in their homes, Whistlestop can be a miracle tonic. You never know what kind of fun you might run into when you go visit. Like the day that See PROMOTING on page 12
Recovery from surgery or illness can be difficult on patients and families. That’s why there’s NCPHS Medicare Certified skilled nursing care. At our facilities, patients benefit from 24/7 post-operative care, wound therapy, enteral care, pain management and an extra dose of compassion. Our team includes RN’s, LVN’s, Certified Nursing Assistants, Rehabilitation Therapists and Dieticians. We are dedicated to helping patients get well, both physically and emotionally. To learn more, call 415.351.7956, or email Janey Dobson, MPH at jdobson@ncphs.org.
A Life Care Community thetam.org 501 Via Casitas
A Life Care Community sequoias-pv.org 501 Portola Valley Rd
A Life Care Community sequoias-sf.org 1400 Geary Boulevard
These not-for-profit communities are part of Northern California Presbyterian Homes and Services. License #210102761 COA #099 I License #410500567 COA #075 I License # 380500593 COA #097
WHISTLESTOP EXPRESS AUGUST 2015
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Why Volunteer?
Compelling Reasons By MARTY ORGEL
W
e asked our members, how does Whistlestop enrich your life?
Joy
Joy, who volunteers in Jackson Café serving lunches, says, “Whistlestop is a good, healthy environment for me. There’s always someone here for me to talk with. That’s important to me. Volunteering makes me feel like I’m giving back to my community.”
Dave
“I get to meet with nice, friendly people all day long when I make Meals on Wheels deliveries. It makes me happy to see all of these wonderful people. I feel proud to be able to make such a contribution.”
Anne Marie
Anne Marie, who staffs the Information Desk on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, says, “I love Whistlestop. I get to get all dressed up and get out of the house. This is important to me, because without Whistlestop I’d probably be stuck at home all day long.”
VOLUNTEER ANNOUNCEMENTS Email volunteer@whistlestop.org or call 415-456-9062, ext. 117. CarePool Volunteer Drivers Provide round trip rides to ambulatory older adults to the doctor or grocery store. Use your own car and receive ride requests through email. Drive on your own schedule. Jackson Café Servers, Cashiers Jackson Café provides older adults nutritious meals at an affordable price. Café volunteers greet, serve and support social interaction. Meals on Wheels Drivers Meals on Wheels volunteer drivers are needed to deliver meals to homebound older adults. A valid California Driver’s License and a clear DMV report, a reliable vehicle and current insurance certificate are needed.
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WHISTLESTOP EXPRESS AUGUST 2015
VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH
Janis Walsh
J
anis was born in the beautiful state of Rhode Island but jumped at the chance to come out to California in 1977. Marin is where she raised her children and still lives happily with her husband, Lee. After 34 years of managing college bookstores, Janis retired from Contra Costa College in 2011. In January 2012, she began volunteering at Whistlestop. At first she delivered for the Meals of Marin program. After a realignment of shifts, she now delivers for the larger, Meals on Wheels program every Wednesday morning. Many people living in Marin have a narrow view of the county. Janis finds it humbling to see another side of Marin, which is mostly invisible. The county has a significant and growing population of older adults living alone on fixed incomes, unable to drive or get out of their homes, who are in need of help. Janis finds great pleasure doing something positive with her time. Delivering meals allows her to drive around to different neighborhoods and meet new people. Sometimes, the volunteer will be the only person the recipient will have contact with all day, and just asking how they are doing and giving a warm smile is all that is needed to make someone’s day. Janis is also a loyal Whistlestop Home Delivered Grocery volunteer. Every Thursday she picks up a grocery order sent in by a homebound senior, shops with Whistlestop’s volunteer group at the local grocery store and delivers the groceries. This is a very personal interaction and some of the volunteers, Janis included, develop close bonds with the people they shop for. In addition to volunteering at Whistlestop, Janis also volunteers for Experience Corps where she helps first grade teachers learn ways to teach literacy and reading skills. If this was not enough, when Janis’s husband retired recently, she “volunteered” him to drive on another Meals on Wheels route and also to join the newly formed CarePool volunteer driver program. Sometimes they drive and shop together. Erika Vaughn, Meals on Wheels Coordinator says: “When I think of our volunteer Janis Walsh, the words which come to mind are ‘helping, caring, understanding’ -- someone who will always be there when you need them. She is, without a doubt, one of the most giving individuals I have ever known.”
Second Annual Whistlestock Fast Approaching Renzetti Joins Whistlestop Management Team
W
histlestop’s new Director of Program Innovation is Anita Renzetti, of San Rafael, who comes to Whistlestop from the American Society on Aging (ASA) where she served as Senior Director of Educational Programs for nearly seven years. Prior to the ASA, Anita served as Director of Academic Affairs for the University of Phoenix and Activities Director for Atria Senior Living Group. Joe O’Hehir, Whistlestop CEO, said, “Anita will lead strategy, innovation and delivery of Whistlestop’s mission programs. These include our Active Aging Services and the multicultural department; the Nutrition Program, which includes Jackson Café, Meals on Wheels and the home-delivered grocery program; Mobility Program, including the CarePool volunteer drivers mobility management program; and Whistlestop’s Volunteer Services Program, which includes recruitment and coordination of our 190 volunteers.”
C
an you imagine anything better than last year’s Whistlestock concert in Marin County? How about the second annual event planned for Sunday, Sept. 27, at Rancho Nicasio? Whistlestock 2015, a benefit concert for Whistlestop, promises to be another day jammed with whimsy, nostalgia, rocking music and high energy dancing. And there’s more – the second annual costume contest and a delicious barbecue. Some of your favorite groups from the 60s will be playing music from 3 to 6pm. Gates will open at 2pm at 1 Old Rancherita Road in Nicasio. Tickets are still available at whistlestock.com, but remember, lots of people attended the event a year ago. It was a rollicking soldout affair attended by what SFBAM magazine described as “grayhairs to grandkids.” One of the day’s highlights came when the Ace of Cups, the legendary all-woman rock band from the Bay Area, performed an a capella jingle they composed especially for Whistlestop, including our website address at the end. This is an exciting and carefree way to support the many ways that Whistlestop serves the older adult community in Marin, which has been its role since 1954.
The idea for the benefit originated in late 2013, when legendary music producer (and Whistlestop client) Pete Slauson contacted Development and Marketing Director Yvonne Roberts, and offered to organize a concert that would feature rock legends from the 1960s. Over his more than 40year career in the music business, Slauson came to know dozens of Bay Area musicians, and was eager to help Whistlestop raise funds as his way of giving back to the organization that helps him remain independent despite illness. Bob Brown, owner of Rancho Nicasio, provided Whistlestop Rancho’s outdoor barbecue area for a show that included Big Brother & the Holding Company; Country Joe McDonald; Peter Kaukonen from Jefferson Starship; Linda & David LaFlamme, formerly of It’s a Beautiful Day; Sopwith Camel; and Ace of Cups and Friends. Some of the performers this year will include Sal Valentino, Lester Chambers, Linda Imperial, David Freiberg and Barry Melton. Be sure to read the September issue of the Whistlestop Express for a complete lineup of the bands and performers who will appear this year.
Featuring rock legends to be announced!
SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 27 RANCHO NICASIO 2-6 PM
BBQ • Costume Contest • Dancing A Day of 60’s Music and Fun at Rancho Nicasio Gates open at 2pm Music 3pm – 6pm. Rancho Nicasio 1 Old Rancheria Road • Nicasio
Tickets at whistlestock.com on sale July 1 A benefit concert for
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WHISTLESTOP EXPRESS AUGUST 2015
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Keep Learning at WHISTLESTOP
For a full list of classes and services, check out the monthly calendar online at whistlestop.org/
classes/calendar or pick one up at the Active Aging Center. Fees listed for classes show the member fee, followed by the non-member fee. To become a member, pick up an application at the front desk at Whistlestop, 930 Tamalpais Ave., from 8:30am-5:30pm. To register or for information about any class or service, call 415-456-9062.
SPECIAL EVENTS Hawaiian Celebration Lunch Thurs, Aug 13 – Lunch: 11:30am-2 pm Music: 12-1 pm
Fee: Regular menu pricing with FREE entertainment. • To celebrate summer, we will have a special lunch with entertainers Lucina Tison and Sandy Bailey singing Hawaiian favorites, along with traditional dances from Hawaiian dancer Lela! You can choose your favorite dish off of our regular menu, or enjoy a Hawaiian-style entrée and lovely desserts.
Slavic Cultural Celebration Thurs, Aug 27 – Lunch: 11:30am-1pm Music: 12-1pm $8/$10 • Celebrate Eastern European cultures with a lunch of beef stroganoff and borscht, and listen to traditional Slavic songs. Tickets required; purchase by Aug 24.
HIGHLIGHTED CLASSES & WORKSHOPS Keep Your Mind Sharp Thursdays, Aug 6 & 20, 3:30-5pm
$3/5 • Crosswords, musical trivia, and more with Program Manager, Diana Gruhl. Drop-in.
New – Online Bridge Mon, Aug 10, 1:30-3pm & Mon, Aug 24, 1:30-3pm
$3/$5, Pre-requisite: Knowledge of basic bridge. Instructor, Dave Ripp. Bring your tablet or laptop.
Intermediate Italian Thursdays, Aug 20-Oct 22, 1-2:30pm
$15/$20 Instructor, Karen Raccanello. Pre-requisite: Basic Italian instruction.
Long-Term Care Workshop Mon, Aug 10, 2-3:30pm
Donations Appreciated. Register by Aug 6. • Learn the five most important questions about long-term care. Don Maxon is a Certified Financial Planner and Registered Investment Advisor. 6
New Cribbage Club Wednesdays, starting Aug 12, 2:30-4pm Donations Appreciated • New Cribbage Club for experienced cribbage players.
Chinese Brush Painting Fridays, Aug 14 & 24, 2-4 pm
$3/$5 • Meditative art of Chinese Brush Painting with Louisa Yee. No experience required; materials provided.
Beginning & Intermediate Ukelele Wednesdays, starting August 19 for six weeks, 12:30-1:30 pm Fee: $35 • Maximum 25 participantssign-up soon! • Bring your own ukulele or teacher Fred Riley will lend you one to try and you can also buy one at a discount!
Legal & Financial Workshop Tues, Aug 18, 3:30-5pm
Donations Appreciated • Registration required: Call 415-472-4340 Alzheimer’s Association’s elder law attorney Lisa Poncia, Marin County, covers living trusts, wills, durable powers for management, healthcare directives and special-needs trusts. For family members and caregivers of an elderly person with dementia.
Jewelry Class Wed, Aug 19, 1:30-2:45pm
$10 per class/includes materials Registration and payment required prior to class. • Local bead artist Maria Barsesat shows how to make earrings.
Zentangle Thurs, Aug 20, 1:30-3pm
$3/$5, Advanced registration required. • Zentangle is an easy-tolearn, relaxing way to create beautiful images by drawing structured patterns. Certified Zentangle teacher Paula Egan.
Salsa/Cuban Dance Tuesdays starting Aug 25, 3-4 pm
$10/12, Cash only/pay per class Learn beginning cha cha, mambo, and rumba with professional dancer Dale Louise Evje. Drop-in.
WHISTLESTOP EXPRESS AUGUST 2015
NEW/HIGHLIGHTED HEALTH PROGRAMS Meditative Massage Mondays, 3:30-4:30pm
Free Legal Consultation Thursdays, 12:30-2:30pm at Whistlestop • 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 12:302:30pm, Mill Valley Community Center
$10/$12 • Self-massage and massaging with peaceful meditation, focusing on specific health issues. For singles or couples. Certified Massage Therapist Rabel Mangahas.
By appointment only: Call 415-4596700 for appointments at both locations. • Legal Aid of Marin provides free 30-minute legal consultations for Marin County residents 60 and older.
Tai Chi for Health & Well-Being Wednesdays, 9-10:15am
Victim-Witness Program 2nd & 4th Thursday, 9am-12pm
$5-10/$12 Tai Chi with Calvin Ahlgren. Drop-in.
Qigong for Health & Happiness Thursdays, 3:30-4:30pm Fee: $5-$10 sliding scale (per class); $12 non-member • NOTICE: No classes in August. New classes start in September.
HIGHLIGHTED SUPPORT SERVICES
Yolanda Johnson, Advocate from the District Attorney’s office, answers questions, provides information, and connects you to resources. Call 415473-6450.
SENIOR ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS WITH LESLIE Call Leslie at 415-456-9062, ext. 132 for appointment or more information.
Homeshare Program
Citizenship Class Starts Wednesday, Aug 5, 3:30-5pm
$30/$35 per semester • This sixmonth class program prepares you for your naturalization test. Contact Marta Villela at 415-456-9062, ext. 131, for details.
Donations Appreciated • The Homeshare Program is a free referral service for older adults providing an affordable and alternative way of meeting housing needs with numerous benefits to renters and homeowners.
English as a Second Language
Phone Reassurance
Starts Sept 9. Mondays and Wednesdays, 2-3:30pm $20/$25 • Basic, Intermediate, Advanced Levels. • Learn English from experienced Canal Alliance teachers. Contact Marta Villela for information and to sign-up: 415-4569062, ext. 131.
Donations Appreciated • Live alone, or feel isolated? Trained volunteers will call you three mornings a week to check on you. We now also offer this service in Spanish.
Multi-Cultural Consultations By appointment: 415-456-9062
Drop-In Housing Consultations 2nd & 4th Wednesday, 2-3pm
Free • Assistance for English and non-English speakers in Spanish, Russian and Vietnamese. Help with applications for social services, healthcare management, citizenship, housing, employment, and federal assistance. Plus translations and referrals. (Possible small fee for translations.)
Rotary Home Team Work Day Sat, Aug 15, 9am-1pm
Make an appointment before Aug 7.
Individual housing consultations.
MARIN COUNTY COMMISSION ON AGING No August Meeting
Whistlestop Weekly ACTIVITIES
This Month at Whistlestop Please view our most recent class schedule at www.whistlestop.org/classes/calendar/ or call 415-456-9062 for updates to the schedule. TIME
MONDAYS
9:30–10:30AM
10–1PM
10:30AM–1:30PM 12:30–1:30PM 3:30–5PM 10–NOON
CLASS
INFO
FEE
Zumba Chair Massage Computer Lab Persian Social Group Russian Social Group Meditative Massage
Drop-in Y Drop-in Y Drop-in N 415-472-6020 N 415-456-9062 x138 N Drop-in Y
9:30–10:30 AM
Whistlesizers Drop-in Y 10–NOON Mah Jongg Drop-in N 10:30AM-12PM German Social Group Drop-in N 10:45–11:45AM Cardio/Yoga Exercise Class Drop-in Y 11AM–2PM Manicurist Appt. Req. N 11:30AM–12:30PM French Class Drop-in Y 1–2PM French Social Group Drop-in N 1–3PM Learn Spanish Drop-in Y 3–4PM Salsa Cuban Ballroom 8/25 Y
TUESDAYS
WEDNESDAYS
9–10:15AM Tai Chi 10–11:30AM 10–NOON
10:30AM–1:30PM
* 11AM–1PM
12:30 –1:30PM
THURSDAYS
2:30–4PM
9:30–10:30AM
10AM–1PM
11–NOON
12:15–3PM 2:45–3:45PM 3–4:30PM 3:30–4:30PM 3:30–5PM
FRIDAYS
8:30AM
Seniors’ Circle Computer Lab Persian Social Group Corazón Latino Beg. & Intermediate Ukelele Cribbage Club
Drop-in Y Drop-in N Drop-in N 415-472-6020 N 415-456-9062 x131 N Ends 8/5 Y Drop-in N
Zumba Chair Massage Whistlesizers Vietnamese Social Group Balance Class Watercolor Technique Qi Gong Keep Your Mind Sharp!
Drop-in Y Drop-in Y Drop-in Y 415-456-9062 x129 N Drop-in Y Y Y 8/6 & 8/20 Y
Community Breakfast Brown Bag Pantry 1–3PM ACASA 2–3:30PM Practice Spanish 2–3:30PM Beginning German 2–4PM Ping-Pong 3–4PM Yoga 11:00–NOON
Drop-in Y 456-9062 x117 N Drop-in N Drop-in N Ends 10/2 Y 8/7 & 8/21 Y Drop-in Y
* Except for Corazon Latino Group, held weekly at Pickleweed Community Center, all classes are held at Whistlestop’s Active Aging Center, 930 Tamalpais Ave., San Rafael.
TECHNOLOGY
Pre-registration and payment required. To register, Call 415-456-9062. See details of classes online. August and September COMPUTER CLASSES iPad/iPhone Basics 1: Getting to Know your Device Tuesdays, Aug 4 & 11, 10am-12pm (2 classes)
Fee: $48 Maximum 8 people • In this personalized, two-week course, you’ll be guided through how to make calls, send emails, send texts, and manage applications. A course for those new to the smart phone/wireless device world, each session provides one-on-one help and comes with instructional handouts so you can practice at home. (For Apple devices only)
iPad/iPhone Basics 2: Essential Built-in Applications Tuesdays, Sept 15 & 22, 10am-12pm (2 classes)
Fee: $48 Maximum 8 people • This course will review some of the basics of using your device. Learn how to get the most out of your built-in apps including Photo editing, iCloud, Calendar, Siri, E-mail, Texting, Facetime, Maps/GPS, and more! In this two week course, you will practice using these essential applications included with your iPad/iPhone. We’ll introduce the steps to find and install new apps, and show you how to update, delete and organize your apps for easy access. If you understand the basics of your device and are ready to see what else it can do, this is the course for you. (For Apple devices only)
iPad/iPhone Basics 3: World of Applications Tuesdays, Sept 29 & Oct 6, 10am-12pm (2 classes)
Fee: $48 Maximum 8 people • In this two week course, we will focus on finding helpful, fun and interesting applications that you can download. Discover how to use apps for shopping, brain training, fitness, internet radio, stock trackers, games, translation, travel, and much more! Learn how to re-arrange and organize apps — and how to get rid of unwanted apps. A perfect sequel to the “How to Use Your iPad/iPhone” and “Essential Built-in Applications” class. Don’t forget to bring your fully charged device, Apple ID, and Apple password to class. (For Apple devices only)
ONGOING Open Lab Every Monday and Wednesday, 10am-12pm
No Fee • Use our PCs for your own purposes, access internet, etc. Volunteer staff available for advice on problems with your electronic devices, laptops, and tablets who can help with software applications.
Jackson Café LUNCH MENU
Monday-Friday • 11:30am-2pm Located in Whistlestop Active Aging Center • Open to the Public •
WHISTLESTAR MEMBER (LOWEST PRICE) / NON-MEMBER OVER 60 / UNDER 60. PRICES INCLUDE TAX Main Entrée $5.75/$6.90/$8.05 Sandwiches + Burgers $5.20/$6.10/$7.25 Soup du Jour $3.40/$4.35/$5.70 bowl Garden/Caesar Salads $4.05/$4.35/$5.20
OTHER ITEMS Tuna Salad Side $2.50 Beverages $1.25 Desserts/Fruit $2.25 Cheese $0.50 Avocado $1.25 WHISTLESTOP EXPRESS AUGUST 2015
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Pursuing passions Whistlestop’s Jackson Café offers gourmet meals at an affordable price.
Nutrition: Eat and Thrive
A
This is where residents discover the community experience.
Call 855.885.6874 or visit LifeatDrakeTerrace.com
Lic. #216801028
Pursuing Passions DT ad 4.3438 x 4.8438 Whistletop Express.indd 1
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offering Geriatric Care Management RN resource specialist and advocate for seniors and their families Home Care Aide Services Full-Service Agency: Agency is Employer; Insured, Bonded
Dignity • Respect • Personal Care • Safety All Services Managed by Owner
Nancy Mack, RN, PHN, GCM
(415) 457-2256 • HealthCareConnectionLLC.com 8
WHISTLESTOP EXPRESS AUGUST 2015
7/20/15 1:40 PM
t Whistlestop’s Jackson Café, head Chef Luis Realpozo runs a tight kitchen, creating new menus and overseeing students who have graduated from Homeward Bound of Marin’s Fresh Starts Culinary Academy. “The job is good,” he says. “I am happy to be here. These students are good people.” Luis has been a chef for 23 years, starting after completing a three-year training program in his native Mexico. For the budding chefs at Jackson Café, Chef Luis inspires them to create healthy, balanced meals, and gives them real-life experiences they can use in future jobs. Jackson Café opened for lunch in 1976, and was extensively remodeled in 2007, thanks to the generosity of H.C. and Beverly Jackson. Jackson Café, inside Whistlestop’s building across from the bus depot in central San Rafael, provides a warm atmosphere for people to socialize. And it is open to the public every weekday from 11:30am to 2pm. Nutrition is a major component in Whistlestop’s mission of helping older adults age with dignity and grace. Staying active and having a healthy diet are essential aspects of healthy aging. “In-
stead of reaching for a can of salty soup or going out for fast food,” says Anita Renzetti, “come to our Jackson Café or Brown Bag pantry or sign up for Meals on Wheels for healthy, well-balanced meals.” Anita is Whistlestop’s new Director of Program Innovation. She oversees the team that manages the Meals on Wheels program, Jackson Café, Brown Bag Pantry, Meals of Marin, and the Home Delivered Grocery program. Read more about Anita, Page 5. Whistlestop’s nutritional programs are specifically designed with older adults in mind. Whistlestop strives to make acquiring nutritious food affordable and accessible, while encouraging the socialization that helps older adults stay healthy and active. Along with Jackson Café, open to the public for lunches, another nutrition program is the Brown Bag Pantry. Volunteers distribute whole vegetables, grains and proteins every Friday from 11am to noon to low-income Marin adults 60 and older, helping them maintain their health and independence. For those who are not able to leave their homes, we See NUTRITION on page 9
Whistlestop Activities: Enriching Life By DIANA GRUHL, PROGRAM MANAGER
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histlestop’s mission is clear: To promote the independence, wellbeing, and quality of life for older adults and people living with disabilities in Marin County. We do this year round at our Active Aging Center through our many activities and services, including affordable meals, educational classes, activities, multicultural gatherings and events. We appreciate the many positive comments we receive from members. “Thank you to Whistlestop for having programs for Russian-speaking seniors. After your Social Group my mother feels more energetic, has more desire to communicate and plans to attend the next meeting,” wrote the daughter of one of our members. The family of another member told us, “Whistlestop is her lifeline; we wouldn’t know what she would do without it.” Another member said, “Thanks to Meals on Wheels I have meals to eat every day in my apartment. This service makes me happy since it is difficult for me to prepare food.” We schedule classes and activities five days a week including the popular Zumba classes, as well as French, English, German and Italian classes, social groups, computer classes, consultation and much more.. Marta Villela, Whistlestop’s Hispanic Multicultural Coordinator, says her mother, Marta Morales, has participated in programs here for five years. She said, “I have benefitted from the ESL program because I have learned English to be able to communicate in this country. And the most important fact is that I am not alone.” When it comes to events at Whistlestop, another member said, “I just love the cultural lunch events. They are vibrant, exciting and make me want to sing and dance.” “You provide a much needed service,” wrote another member. “Your volunteers are wonderful people. They take pride in the services they provide.” Our volunteers are wonderful, and you can read more about them in our Volunteer of the Month piece and Person on the Street comments on Page 4.
NUTRITION continued from page 8
offer the Meals on Wheels program, which delivers to more than 150 homes a year. Whistlestop delivers fresh, chilled meals up to three times each week to
housebound older adults in our community. A similar program, Meals of Marin, delivers meals five times a week to clients with lifechallenging illnesses.
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• 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
WHISTLESTOP EXPRESS AUGUST 2015
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Affordable, All-Inclusive Affordable, All-InclusiveMonthly MonthlyRent Rent No Lease, Buy-ins or Add-ons No Lease, Buy-ins or Add-ons
Three ThreeNutritious NutritiousMeals MealsEvery EveryDay Day Delicious, Delicious,Fresh FreshSalad SaladBar Bar Health &&Wellness Program Health WellnessMeals Program Three Nutritious Activities &&Excursions Activities Excursions Every Day Housekeeping Housekeeping Transportation Transportation Delicious, Beauty FreshSalon Salad Bar Beauty Salon Guest Rooms Affordable, All-Inclusive Monthly Rent Guest Affordable, All-Inclusive Monthly Rent Health & Wellness Program And MuchRooms More... And Much More... No Lease, Buy-ins or Add-ons No Lease, Buy-ins or Add-ons
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Three Nutritious Meals Every Day Housekeeping Delicious, Fresh Salad Bar Bar Delicious, Fresh Salad Health & Wellness Program Three Nutritious Meals Every Day Health & Wellness Program Transportation & Excursions Activities & Excursions Delicious, Fresh Salad Bar Activities Family Owned Since 1983 Housekeeping Housekeeping Family Owned Since 1983 Health & Wellness Program Beauty Salon Transportation 2100 Transportation E. Washington Street 2100 E. Washington Street Beauty Salon Beauty Salon Activities & Excursions Petaluma, CA 94954 Guest Rooms Guest Rooms Petaluma, CA 94954 Guest Rooms (707) 778-6030 Housekeeping AndAnd Much More... Much More... (707) www.ValleyOrchards.com and Much778-6030 More... Transportation www.ValleyOrchards.com
Beauty Salon Guest Rooms Also visit our Napa County Location And Much More... Also visit our Napa County Location
www.SilveradoOrchards.com (707) 963-3688 www.SilveradoOrchards.com (707) 963-3688
FamilyFamily Owned Since Since 1983 1983 Owned
21002100 E. Washington Street E. Washington Street
Petaluma, CA 94954 Petaluma, CA 94954
(707) 778-6030 (707) 778-6030
www.ValleyOrchards.com www.ValleyOrchards.com
Family Owned Since 1983
AlsoAlso visit visit our Napa County Location 963-3688 our Napa County Locationwww.SilveradoOrchards.com www.SilveradoOrchards.com(707)(707) 963-3688
2100 E. Washington Street
Petaluma, CA 94954
(707) 778-6030
www.ValleyOrchards.com
www.SilveradoOrchards.com
(707) 963-3688
PHYSICAL THERAPY FOR SENIORS
• 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 Licensed Physical Therapists
415-444-0910 10 WHISTLESTOP EXPRESS AUGUST 2015
Jennifer Holland, PT CA Lic #10957
Partnering with Doctors on Memory Loss By MARTY ORGEL
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forget things all the time and usually think my memory is getting worse. So I signed up for a comprehensive, free memory screening at Whistlestop, administered by Senior Access of Marin. A specialist gave me the test, called a Montreal Cognitive Assessment. The easiest part of the test was when I was asked to name as many words as I could that began with the letter F. The hardest part was when I was asked to remember five words that I would be asked to repeat later. After hearing the words, we moved on to other activities. At the end of 10 minutes, I remembered four of the words, but not the fifth. The examiner had to give me a hint before I remembered that word. And I lost one point! My specialist explained how we all forget things over time. We are all overworked and multitasking. There’s no real cause for concern about forgetting where you left your keys, or even running a red light. It doesn’t mean you’re losing your memory; it’s more like you are distracted and need to concentrate more on driving when you get behind the wheel. A bigger concern, the specialist said, would be for-
getting where you were going while driving. Later, I called Dr. Matt Willis, Marin County public health officer. He was the keynote speaker at the recent Aging Healthy Symposium in San Rafael. “It’s normal to forget things like where you put your keys,” Dr. Willis said. “It’s also important that people not rush to get an MRI when you find yourself losing those keys.” Dr. Willis recommended bringing concerns about memory loss to your healthcare providers, and letting them partner with you. Memory loss among elders is a major concern in the medical community. He cited a study of adults 60 and older, which found that only one in five people discuss memory loss with their doctor. He called that a “missed opportunity” in relationships between doctors and patients. Two other opportunities not to be missed at Whistlestop: Brain Fitness Workshop – Fun and Games, Sept. 10, 9:30-10:30am and Memory Screenings, Sept. 16, 8:30am12:30pm, sponsored by Whistlestop and Senior Access. Marty Orgel is Whistlestop’s Marketing and Communications Specialist, morgel@whistlestop.org. This column appeared in Marinscope Community Newspapers.
A Rare Opportunity to Join I was concerned about moving from my home until I visited The Redwoods. It’s everything I could hope for.
Schedule a visit Ruth and Beth grocery shop with CarePool.
Enriching Your Life: CarePool
• Residential Living Apartments Available Now! • All-Inclusive Services: Meals, Housekeeping, Laundry, Transportation, Customized Wellness Program • Over 100 Engaging and Renewing Activities Weekly To schedule a tour call Pam Bill: (415) 937-4207 SNF# 010000390 RCFE# 210102866
40 Camino Alto, Mill Valley CA 94941
www.theredwoods.org
By MARTY ORGEL
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wouldn’t have been able to go shopping this morning if it weren’t for CarePool,” Ruth said. Ruth is in United Markets picking out fresh vegetables. She got there with the help of her Whistlestop CarePool volunteer driver, Beth. “Beth,” Ruth said, “is one of this outing’s added benefits.” It’s their second, so far. CarePool is the newest addition to our transportation family. The program provides rides to adults 65 years and older who no longer drive. Volunteers from Marin communities take riders to the grocery store or medical appointments. CarePool is up and running, yet we still need more volunteer drivers. You need to commit to a two or three hour ride, and you’ll be asked to help riders from their home to the car, and into the doctor’s office or grocery store. Our volunteer drivers can also assist if you want extra help, such as carrying grocery bags. CarePool is funded through a New Freedom Grant from MTC, Measure B, and a grant from Marin General Hospital. To use CarePool, call 415-454-0902 to enroll in the program as a rider. To volunteer as a driver email Laurie at volunteer@whistlestop.org.
Getting Older Shouldn’t Mean Leaving Your Comfort Zone
90% of seniors prefer to remain at home as they age. Seniors At Home is the leading provider of senior care in the Bay Area. We help seniors live safer, healthier, more independent lives in their own homes.
Call 415-449-3777
Seniors At Home B E T T E R C A R E S TA R T S AT H O M E
info@SeniorsAtHome.org • www.SeniorsAtHome.org WHISTLESTOP EXPRESS AUGUST 2015
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A Great Way to Stay Connected By RAPHAEL KRANTZ, TRAVEL NAVIGATOR
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hanks for the excellent service,” the thank-you note to Whistlestop reads. “I appreciate the efforts of all your drivers and dispatchers who coordinate travel for those of us who need help on our daily travels.” These are the comments we like to hear at Whistlestop. Our mission in transportation is to make it easier for our members to stay connected to the people, activities, and places they love. To make this happen, Whistlestop operates the Marin Access Travel Navigator Department. Our Navigators are a one-stop phone call for information about all things transportation. It’s one of the many ways we assist aging adults and people with disabilities in Marin. “I wouldn’t have been able to go shopping this morning if it weren’t for CarePool,” is common praise we hear about our new service. Many riders now request the same drivers, as their relationship builds. CarePool is the latest addition to our transportation family. Whistlestop partners with Marin Transit to provide transportation options to older citizens in Marin. During the 2015 fiscal year, Whistlestop provided more than 150,000 rides, operating 20 hours a day, 365 days a year for Marin Access and other nonprofit organizations. On a typical day, we handle more than 500 transportation-related calls, always greeting callers with a friendly voice ready to assist. Marin Access Catch-a-Ride Catch-a-Ride is a taxi discount service ideally suited to short distance trips. An added benefit is that you can schedule same day trips with two hours advance notice. Most people will get a $14 discount off the cost of any ride; for example, if your taxi fare totaled $15, your cost is just $1 for this $15 trip.
Whistlestop
E PRESS Marin Senior Coordinating Council 930 Tamalpais Avenue San Rafael, CA 94901-3325
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STAR Program “STAR” stands for Safe Transport and Reimbursement. If it would feel more comfortable asking a friend, neighbor, caregiver or family member for a ride if you could offer a reimbursement for their travel, then this program is for you. STAR will reimburse your driver $.35 a mile, up to 100 miles a month. “The service you provide allows my Dad to age with dignity,” wrote another member. This is the reaction we hope everyone has when they take a ride through Whistlestop. The Travel Navigator department is here to help you find the best transportation options for your needs. Call us at 415-4540902.
PROMOTING continued from page 3
two Whistlestar members brought in three Chihuahua puppies and watched other members cuddle with them. “Nothing like a puppy to bring happiness,” was San Anselmo resident Rosemary Silva’s response to the puppy photos on Whistlestop’s Facebook page. Or the poetry reading in Jackson Café, open to the public, the Father’s Day luncheon with music, the festive Cinco de Mayo lunch featuring music and dancing. You may find folks sifting through the low-priced used books and CDs at the Whistlestop Bookies and Cookies, or a group sitting nearby discussing current events or playing mahjongg. Whistlestop is a model citizen in Marin, teaming up with other organizations and agencies such as: • This year’s Multicultural Party at the Boro Center in Pickleweed Park along with the Marin County Division of Aging and the City of San Rafael
• Our class instructors leading free 30-minute exercise classes co-sponsored by the San Rafael Chamber’s Health and Wellness Resource Group • The Home Fire Safety Prevention workshop co-sponsored by the San Rafael Fire Department Whistlestop also has hosted document-shredding days, a seminar by a professional organizer on how to de-clutter homes and offices, a hearing awareness seminar and countless other free events designed to make life easier and healthier for older adults. When you want a one-stop shop for healthy living, eating, education and socializing, you need look no further than the welcoming confines of Whistlestop, where we make taking care of your mind, body and emotional wellbeing an enjoyable experience. To keep up with what’s going on, go to our website: www. whistlestop.org and “like” us on Facebook.