Whistlestop Express

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Whistlestop AUGUST 2012

E PRESS

Whistlestop.org

The Leading Information Resource for Marin's Active Aging Movement

Science Agrees: Some Things (in Humans) Do Get Better With Age By JOHN BOWMAN

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wo prominent brain scientists agree with us that in humans, “Some Things Get Better With Age,” our theme for this issue. We interviewed Joel Kramer and Virginia Sturm, neuropsychologists at University of California, San Francisco. We asked if our premise is accurate – is it possible that people improve in their ability to express such qualities as compassion, wisdom and empathy? And can our brains continue to function sharply even into our 70s, 80s, 90s and beyond? The simple answer is “yes.” Dr. Strum: “We do see some improvement with age in reading emotions.” She added that it is common in older people to “attend to and experience positive emotions and in regulating their emotions.” Why? “We think it’s because of what we call wisdom – the ability to know what kind of environment affects a person negatively or positively and to avoid or embrace one or the other. Older people see the silver lining.” Dr. Kramer explained that, “We know atrophy occurs with most of the brain as we age, but the brain network for processing emotions stays intact.” They both agreed that socializing (at active aging centers like Whistlestop) definitely helps. “Research has shown that social networking can even prevent the common cold, and can lead to a longer lifespan – it is one of the most powerful factors,” Sturm said. When asked about the ill effects of isolating, they said that any major stressors – a surgery,

You Can Help Match Grant to Whistlestop page 2

death of a partner, bad health reports – can lead to rapid decline. A close relationship with a partner can also hold off such decline. So can getting involved in a place like Whistlestop where people gather to socialize, exercise, eat and learn together. They both emphasized the importance of exercise. “Anything that is good for your heart is good for your brain,” Kramer said. So, exercise is vital. Some important chemicals in the brain are increased with exercise. People can generate new brain cells, and this continues into the 80s and 90s,” he added. He said that walking is one of the best exercises, “So long as you walk briskly enough to get your heart pumping.” ✦

Photo

CONTEST ◗ Winner of Older Adults/ Manipulated Images: Other Worlds by Tom Crouse. (Runner up for Best of Show) See pages 6-7 for other category winners.

Two Festive Fundraisers Coming page 5

Birdside of Marin page 11

Whistlestop

Table of

CONTENTS 3 4 6/7 8/9 10 11 13 14 15

Two Fundraisers Coming From Rocky's Pantry Rocky Packard Photo Contest Winners Whistlestop Classes Activities Calendar The Bird's Side of Marin Richard Pavek Board Column William Paul GrandMom Column Audrey Mettel Fixmer Sudoku Puzzle

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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 Karen Arnold • Liza Cozad • Eleanor Delaney Venessa Dixon • Jane Lott • Debbie Mills Lori Peterson • Bill Saul • 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

AUGUST 2012

PERSPECTIVE by JOE O' H EH IR Help Us Earn A Challenge Grant

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he Marin Community Foundation (MCF) has awarded Whistlestop an $180,000 challenge grant for direct support to our programs and services for older adults and people with disabilities. In order to receive the full grant, we must raise $50,000 in new donations by September 30, 2012. MCF was established in 1986 with the assets of a trust from long time Marin residents, Leonard and Beryl H. Buck. Since then, over 350 individuals, families, businesses, and community groups have established funds at MCF. Grants made from these funds support a wide variety of needs within Marin County and elsewhere in the U.S. and around the world. For the past 23 years MCF has provided continual grant funding to support Whistlestop’s mission. During the past four years, Whistlestop has been a major grant recipient for its programs and services covered under MCF’s Successful Aging Initiative. Marin now has more than 13,000 older adults living alone and in need, and this number will only get larger as our population ages. These older adults could be your parents, neighbors, siblings, or friends. When people are unable to get out of their homes or are unable to drive, they can lose their independence and that can lead to a lonely, isolated existence. Anyone who has felt loneliness knows that it hurts. But when it comes to older adults, it may actually contribute to failing health or an early death accord-

ing to recently published research from the University of California San Francisco. In a study of 1,600 older adults, doctors found that people who reported being lonely were more likely to suffer a decline in health or die over a six-year period than those who were content with their social lives. Loneliness can leave people vulnerable to pain and other discomforts that an active social life could distract them from. Whistlestop believes that everyone deserves the opportunity to age with dignity, independence, and grace. Together we can make that happen for Marin’s older adults and people with disabilities. Whistlestop provides transportation, meals and activities for older adults to help them stay vibrant and engaged. But there are more people in Marin who need our help. No other organization in Marin offers the comprehensive hub of transportation services that Whistlestop provides for older adults and people with disabilities. Whistlestop serves the greatest number of older individuals in Marin, connecting them to each other and offering social and preventive health services they need to remain active, vibrant members of our community. Please help us help Marin’s older adults by contributing to our $50,000 MCF challenge grant fund. You can easily make contributions on our website at www.whistlestop. org or by mail in the enclosed remit envelope. Thank you for your continued generosity and support. ✦

Annual Driftwood Fizz September 21; Great Way to Support Whistlestop

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ring a friend to enjoy breathtaking views, a women’s fashion show and delicious hors d’oeuvres at Driftwoods Annual Fizz at a Tiburon Luxury home. Bid on fantastic silent auction items while supporting Whistlestop! Date: Friday, September 21 from 10am to noon. Tickets are only $35 in advance, $40 at the door. For ticket and address information, please contact Patty at rccerf@comcast.net. âœŚ

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Concert for Giving September 21; Whistlestop One of Four Beneficiaries

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he Harbor Point Charitable Foundation will present “The Concert for Givingâ€? on September 21, from 7 to 10:30 pm at the Marin Center Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium. Benefiting from the concert are four vital food programs in Marin County: Marin Food Bank, Meals of Marin, St. Vincent de Paul Dining Room, and Whistlestop’s Meals on Wheels. The popular Bryan Brothers and Pride and Joy band will be featured. Tickets to the concert will be available to the public by calling the Marin Center Box Office at 415-473-6800. âœŚ

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www.TheRedwoods.org

From Rocky's PANTRY

New Views of The Redwoods

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Whistlestop Express

AUGUST 2012

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dd this dish to any meal or take on a picnic or potuluck and you will add a little spice to your summer. Serves 6

Amount/Meas.

Ingredient/Preparation Method

2 Cups 2 Cups 2 Cups 1 1 1/2 6 5 Tbls. Pinch

Jicama Julienne cut White cabbage, Julienne cut Red cabbage, Julienne cut Medium carrot, shredded Bunch cilantro, chopped Bunch parsley, chopped Mint leaves, Julienne cut Olive oil Red chili flakes Juice 2 fresh limes Salt and pepper to taste Combine all ingredients ahead and allow to marinate before serving. Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 99 Calories; 11g Fat (100.0% calories from fat); 0g Protein; 0g Carbohydrate; 0g Dietary Fiber; 0mg Cholesterol; trace Sodium. Exchanges: 2 1/2 Fat. âœŚ

Faces of Whistlestop B y VA L E R I E B O W M A N

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rofessional photographer Stephanie Mohan took photos of a number of Whistlestop participants, and from time to time we will share these compelling shots and short profiles on the people in a series called Faces of Whistlestop. Virginia Dziomba of San Anselmo says that quite a few activities bring her to Whistlestop. She is a board member and active with Blind and Visually Impaired of Marin. She facilitates one of five support groups offered by BVIM. After her support group, people gather together in the Jackson

Faces of Whistlestop CafĂŠ for lunch. She really appreciates Whistlestop when she needs transporation. She uses Whistlestop Wheels for one direction. For the other, she uses the STAR program, which lets her reimburse her volunteer driver. She says while she waits for the bus to take her home, the front door seems to open every five seconds with lots of people getting served, all ethnic groups, which she enjoys. Virginia is 92 and Whistlestop helps keep her active and engaged. Maxine Simontacchi of San Rafael has lived in Marin County for more than 50 years. She comes to Whistlestop whenever she can. She likes to knit and has participated in the knitting circle, where she enjoys sharing patterns. On Tuesdays, she takes the bus to the Center for a free manicure. Maxine, who is Swedish, says she’d like to learn to speak Spanish sometime and she has observed the exercise classes but hasn’t joined in just yet. She is glad to spend time around the friendly people of Whistlestop. âœŚ

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PHOTO CONTEST WINNERS

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ome of the best pictures in the history of Whistlestop’s annual photo contest emerged from 90 entries in the 2012 contest. This was the fourth year of the Whistlestop competition and first year that Whistlestop partnered with the Pacific Sun to co-sponsor the contest for Marin County amateur photographers. Shown on these pages and on page one are the award winners among older adults (60-plus). Several newcomers joined past winners George Cunha and Marilyn Bagshaw in the older adult categories. Judges in this year’s contest gathered at the Pacific Sun on Saturday, July 14, to select winners for the combined contest. Judges included Terry

Scussel, photographer and Whistlestop Board member; Mark Lindsay, Photographer-Artist; John Bowman, Co-Editor of the Whistlestop Express; and Pacific Sun staffers, Missy Reynolds, Art Director; and Julie Vader, Proofreader/Photographer. Linda Black, Pacific Sun Advertising Director, coordinated the judging. The winning photographers will be honored at a reception from 5:30 to 7 pm on Tuesday, August 14, in the Caboose Room in the Whistlestop building, 930 Talmalpais Ave., San Rafael. If you would like to attend the reception, please RSVP to Linda Black at Pacific Sun: Lblack@pacificsun.com or 415. 485.6700 x 306 by August 9th. ✦

MARIN IMAGES __________________________________________

◗ 2nd Place: Cronkite Steps by Jack Androvich

◗ 1st Place: McClures Beach by Tom Crouse

◗ 3rd Place: Frank's Tower by George Cunha

◗ Honorable Mention: Reflections Cheese Factory Lake by Marilyn Bagshaw 6

Whistlestop Express

AUGUST 2012

PHOTO CONTEST MARIN PEOPLE, PETS & ANIMALS __________________________

◗ 1st Place: Artful Artist by Mary Tsolakis

◗ 3rd Place: Itchy Blue Heron by Frances Farley

◗ 2nd Place: Under Marin Skies by Mary Frandina

◗ Honorable Mention: Sea Lions by John Carr

M A N I P U L AT E D I M A G E S _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

◗ Honorable Mention: Embracing the Light ◗ 3rd Place: Two Sailboats by Sara Kurkov. in the Bay by Gail Pierce. ◗2nd Place: Back in a Moment by Jacob Barnett. whistlestop.org 7

Keep Learning at WHISTLESTOP For a complete list of classes, visit whistlestop.org

DROP-IN COMPUTER LAB Mondays • 10 - Noon & Wednesdays • 10 - 2pm Need help using a computer? We have volunteer computer tutors available to work with you one-onone, if needed. BEGINNING COMPUTERS FOR ADULTS LEVEL I Thursdays, Sept. 6 - Oct. 11 • 10am - Noon Fee: $60 for 6-week course | Instructor: Ed Essick Pre-registration required: 459-6700 This hands-on course will provide you with the basic skills needed to use your Windows-based personal computer. It is designed for first-time computer users. You will learn how to: start your computer and turn it off, use the mouse and keyboard to perform basic computer tasks, create and print a document, identify the basic parts of a computer and their use, and search the Internet to find information. Laptop users are welcome to bring their Windows-based computer to class. GOING PLACES Register: Lisa O’Brien, MARIN YMCA, 492-9622 Marin YMCA and Whistlestop invites you to join Adventures in Culture. Living in the San Francisco Bay Area, there are many points of interest to visit. The Y plans older adult trips to different locations, such as museums, attractions, gardens, and much more. THE GRAVENSTEIN APPLE FAIR Saturday, Aug. 11 • Depart 9am; return 3pm Fee: Community Member, $26 The sweetest little Fair in Sonoma County. The Gravenstein Apple Fair, hosted by Sonoma County Farm Trails, has a long and rich history in Sonoma County. Sebastopol staged its first Apple Show in 1910 on Main Street in a tent across from the Petaluma and Santa Rosa Railway Depot. The Fair, celebrating the tart but sweet Gravenstein apple, happens every August, and showcases apples and apple products during the peak of their season. Enjoy an array of food for lunch. LINDSAY WILDLIFE MUSEUM Saturday, Aug. 24 • Depart 11:30am; return 3:30pm Fee: Community Member, $22 This is a family museum and wildlife rehabilitation center in Walnut Creek. The museum is one of the oldest wildlife rehab centers in the US. The programs 8

Whistlestop Express

AUGUST 2012

“connect people with wildlife to inspire responsibility and respect for the world we share.” The museum has an interactive discovery room, a pet education section with small domestic animals, and rotating natural history and art exhibits. You can enjoy your lunch at the park next door or walk a block to grab a bite at the local deli. EXPLORE THE OUTDOORS HIKE LIMANTOUR BEACH, SOUTH TO SCULPTURE BEACH Wednesday, Aug. 8 • Depart 9:30am; return 3:30pm Fee: $5 This is a fairly level hike along the ocean’s edge, with a total distance of about 4 miles. It will be one day before the quarter moon, so the tide should be out at midday, giving us firm, wet sand to walk on at water’s edge. We’ll start from the small south parking lot, go out to the beach and then south a half mile or so to where we can access the Coast Trail atop the low bluff, and take it south to Coast Camp, which is slightly inland, where the higher bluffs above Sculpture Beach start. We’ll go back out to the beach there and take it south another half mile or so, and eat our picnic lunches. After eating, we’ll head back north, taking the beach all the way. HIKE POINT BONITA, IN THE MARIN HEADLANDS Fee: $5 . This will be a mildly strenuous loop hike of about four miles, with an elevation descent of about 200 feet and a later gain of the same amount. We’ll start from the YMCA Conference Center parking lot, first heading west along Mendell Rd. to Bird Rock Overlook, then come back to near the Y, go south and stop at the overlook for the trail to the lighthouse. Then we’ll follow the road past Battery Wallace and take Field Rd. by the Nike Missile Site, where Lloyd will tell you how he helped design the Nike Hercules missile when he worked at Douglas Aircraft Co., back in 1954. Field Rd. takes us to the Visitor Center, with restrooms outside and a picnic table where we’ll eat our lunches. After eating and visiting the Center, we’ll hike on the Coastal Trail, along the south side of Rodeo Lagoon, which takes us to Rodeo Beach and a trail up the bluff, by more batteries and back to the Y parking lot. VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES Contact: Debbie at 456-9062 or programs@whistlestop.org • Board/Card Game Leaders • Chiropractor • Italian Social Group Leader

• Portuguese Social Group Leader • Bi-lingual Computer Teacher • Jackson Café Volunteers Needed to work in the Jackson Cafe at least one day a week from 10:30am to 1:45pm. Whistlestop’s Jackson Café, located at the Active Aging Center, serves delicious and affordable lunchtime meals, Monday through Friday to diners of all ages. The Café features daily specials, deli sandwiches, soups, desserts, and fresh salads. The Jackson Café offers a comfortable setting where older adults and their family and friends can eat well and stay socially active. • Center Service volunteer needed to answer phones and do various office duties. Computer experience a plus, but not required. Volunteer is needed from 10am to 1pm, with some flexibility. WHISTLESTOP WOULD LIKE TO START A SEWING GROUP We need a volunteer to instruct participants, sewing machines, fabric and thread. IN-KIND DONATIONS NEEDED Mah Jongg sets, books, yarn, movies on DVD and exercise mats. If you have items to donate, please call Debbie at 456-9062. RESTORE & IMPROVE YOUR BALANCE TRAINING CLASS Tuesdays & Thursdays in August • 2:30 - 3:30 pm Suggested donation: $10 per class/drop-ins welcome Thomas Attardi, BS, MA, NMT, has been working in the health and healing rehabilitation field since 1992, primarily with those who are physically challenged with sustained disabilities, impairments or limitations in their overall physical well-being. In the Balance Class, you will learn how balance works, why your balance may be deteriorating, and how you can safely implement very simple exercises to train your balance. We will learn the best exercises for stronger legs to prevent falls and safeguard our risks of injury. We will also cover what to do if we fall. Better balance and believing in oneself helps maintain as much independence as possible. Bring a water bottle and 1lb. or 2 lb. weights to class. WATERCOLORS WITH MARITA Fridays, Sept. 7 - Oct. 12 (6 classes) • 10am - Noon Fee for materials, $5 (due at first class) Join us for this fun art program! Learn to make beautiful art using watercolor paints. Come explore your world from a whole new vantage point. You may even

reacquaint yourself with your inner child. All levels are welcome, and no experience is necessary. HOUSING ASSISTANCE FOR OLDER ADULTS 2nd & 4th Wednesday of the month • 2 - 4pm Information: 456-9062, ext.132 Presenter: Leslie Klor will be available for individual housing consultations. Looking for housing options for yourself, an aging parent, relative, or friend? Struggling to make ends meet? It’s easy to feel confused and overwhelmed by all the different choices. Come get some clarity on housing choices in Marin. SUTTER CARE AT HOME WILL BE COMING TO WHISTLESTOP THIS SEPTEMBER TO ADMINISTER FLU SHOTS. The flu program helps to support Sutter’s Hospice and Home Care patients in need. Stay tuned for dates and times. FRIDAY FLICKS Fridays •1:30pm Information: 456-9062 Whistlestop offers free movies every Friday in the Lounge. EXPERIENCE THE JOY OF SAILING Thursday, Aug. 23 & Sept. 18 • 11am - 1:30pm Information and reservations: Debbie, 456-9062 The Spaulding Wooden Boat Center is offering free sailboat rides around the San Francisco Bay on a classic wooden boat the Polaris. USING POLES FOR WALKING, BALANCE & MOBILITY Wednesday, Aug.15 • 1:30 - 4pm Fee: $26 for first-time students (maximum 8 new participants), for 2nd time students, $8/Free for 3rd time repeaters. Fees due at registration. (Fee refunded if not satisfied.) Registration required: 456-9062

Transportation Numbers Marin Access Call Center: 454-0902 Get Qualified to Ride: 456-9062, x106 eligibility@whistlestop.org Cancel a Ride: 457-4630 STAR Volunteer Driving: 454-0969 whistlestop.org 9

Whistlestop Weekly ACTIVITIES This Month at Whistlestop

FRIDAYS

THURSDAYS

WEDNESDAYS

TUESDAYS

MONDAYS

TIME

CLASS

INFO

COST

9–2 PM 9:30–10:30 AM 10–11 AM 10–NOON 11–12:30 PM 11–NOON 4–5:30 PM

Relax Chair Massage Exercise Lamas Qi Gong Language AM Monday Learn Computer Lab Language German Social Group Exercise Zumba Language Citizenship Class

Open Open 457-0586 Open Open Open 454-0998

$4/8min. $3/class Free Free Free $6 $25

9:15–10:15 AM 10:45–11:45 AM 11–2 PM 1–3 PM 2–3:30 PM 2:30–3:30 PM

Exercise Whistlesizers Exercise Cardio Exercise Class Relax Manicurist Language Learn Spanish Language English Conversation Exercise Balance Class

Open Open Appt. Needed Open 454-0998 Sugg. Donation

$2 Free Free Free Free $10

Exercise Tai Chi Qigong Relax Chair Massage Support Seniors' Circle Learn Computer Lab Dance Corazón Latino Relax Mah Jongg Language Basic English for Spanish Speakers

Sugg. Donation Open Open Open Open Open 457-0586

9:15–10:15 AM 10–NOON 11–NOON 2–3:30 PM 2:30–3:30 PM 3–4 PM

Exercise Whistlesizers Relax Knit!!! Dance Latin Rhythm Language English Conversation Exercise Balance Class Language Basic English for Spanish Speakers

Open 457-0586 454-0998 454-0998 Sugg. Donation 457-0586

$2 Free $2 Free $10 Free

1:30–3:30 PM 1:30–3:30 PM 1:30–3:30 PM 2:00–3:00 PM 2:00–4:00 PM

Relax Friday Flicks Support ACASA Language Practice Spanish Exercise Yoga with Kelly Learn Arts & Crafts w/Vicky

456-9062 Peer Counseling Open 456-9062 August 17 & 31

Free Free Free $3 $3

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

$10 or less $4/8min. Free Free Free Free Free

Jackson Café Monday-Friday 11:00am-1:30pm Located in Whistlestop Active Aging Center

LUNCH MENU 60+ PRICES/ UNDER 60 PRICES

Main Entrée $4.50/$7.25 (+$1 for Seafood Entrées) Sandwiches $4.25/$6.25 Soup du Jour $1.75/$2.25 Hamburger w/Fries $4.25/$5.25 Salads $2.50/$4.00 OTHER ITEMS Tuna Salad Side $1.25 Fresh Fruit $1.50 Beverages $1.00 Desserts $2.00

For a complete list of all classes, visit whistlestop.org 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

AUGUST 2012

b y R I C H A R D PAV E K PHOTOS © RICHARD PAVEK

The Bird's Side OF MARIN

Sad Mystery

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’ve had many joys chasing the birds with my cameras, but tragedies as well. For the past three years I have photographed a mother Redtailed Hawk as she fed her fledgling chicks in a nest atop a very old Monterey Pine. This year, the owners of the tree tell me, makes the 16th year of a minor miracle – in fifteen years the mother never lost a chick! Over the last week I watched this year’s chick weaken. At first it stood in the nest and flapped its wings, two days later it couldn’t flap, the next day it stayed hidden in the nest. The following day it stood and cried weakly for food, until it gave up and disappeared inside the nest. I never saw it after that. The chick, we have sadly decided, has died.

Did the chick die of illness or starvation? Did the mother stop bringing food because she was killed? On the second day I photographed her bringing a California Black King Snake to her chick; the finest Hawk photo I have ever captured; I didn’t see her after that. There are no bird detectives to investigate, no TV crime scene specialists to probe and scrutinize; for now there are no answers. There is nothing for it but to wait a year and see if she and her mate reclaim the nest for another family. It will be a long year. Every weekend I send an email with an interesting bird photo to those who want something nice in their Inbox. It’s Free! Just email me at SHENmaker@MSN.com and ask.✦ ‘Til next month, Richard whistlestop.org 11

Retired Kaiser Geriatrics Physician Prescribes Exercise, Mental Activity Editor’s note: Dr. Stephen Mizroch practiced geriatric and internal medicine at Kaiser Permanente in San Rafael for 31 years. He and his wife, Mary, an RN, are strong supporters of Whistlestop as donors and friends. The Whistlestop Express interviewed Dr. Mizroch as part of its theme for this issue: “Some Things Get Better With Age.� The interview follows.

Q. What inspired you to become a physician? A. From an early age I had positive role models in our family physician and my uncle. They encouraged me to use my own scientific orientation to pursue a career in health sciences. Q. Is it true that we gain wisdom as we get older? A. Through experience, one more fully develops perspective in life. It becomes clear what is most important. Relationships, friends, and community take on greater significance. Issues which may have been annoying earlier in life become less impactful.

Q. In your 31 years of practice, what trends did you witness in health issues for older adults? A. The main trend is to focus on living healthier, not just longer. Improved technology in surgery and internal medicine have decreased Dr. Stephen Mizroch, Q. What advice do you give your risks in treatments for older people retired Kaiser physician. patients about how to stay sharp and lengthened average longevmentally as well as physically? ity. Another trend is an open attitude toward A. The mind and the body are inextricably discussing end of life decisions. linked. To enhance both, I believe in exercise, reading, travel, socializing with other people and continuing to learn new things.

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Q. How serious is the issue of isolation for older adults – people in their 70’s and older? A. Isolation of older adults is extremely serious. It adds to depression risks and poor health outcomes. Isolation also causes a decrease in the ability to recover from illness. I urge seniors to stay closely connected to friends, family and community.

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Whistlestop Express

AUGUST 2012

Q. Why do you continue to support Whistlestop? A. Whistlestop creates a sense of community, providing transportation and food lifelines to older adults in need. It’s important for all of us to support them because it makes one feel good to help others and, one day, you could get old and need the assistance Whistlestop offers.

You Select The Caregiver You Feel Comfortable With and Trust!

Q. How important is a sense of humor in dealing with the issues of growing older? A. A sense of humor can be very helpful to your health. I describe it as “ mind over matterâ€?... if you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter. A good laugh relaxes your body and lowers your stress hormones. âœŚ

Solving Problems By WILLIAM SAUL

I

was born and reared on a farm in north central Indiana and received my BA at Purdue University, and my law degree at the University of Cincinnati. I later earned an MBA at UC Berkeley and an LLM in Taxation from Golden Gate University. We came to San Francisco in 1971 when I was hired for a position as a trial attorney with the IRS, District Counsel’s Office in San Francisco. In my present practice, the ‘There is not Saul Law Firm in San another agency Rafael, I specialize in tax planning, audits in Marin that and litigation, estate provides a planning and small formation. My comprehensive business greatest satisfaction approach on comes from solving problems for my clithe important ents. issues facing When we first came to the Bay Area, we older adults.’ originally bought a house in Daly City. We later moved to Marin for some sunshine. I have lived in San Anselmo since October 1981, and enjoy living and working in Marin County. My wife and I have three children and two grandchildren. I joined the Whistlestop Board of Directors in January 2011. I am pleased to be in this role, because I do not think there is another agency in Marin that provides a comprehensive approach on the important issues facing older adults. I am becoming a senior citizen myself, and I wanted to participate in assuring that services for older adults in Marin continued and thrived. Whistlestop is facing challenges in addressing its location and fundraising that are unprecedented in its 60-plus year existence. I hope we can get the attention of Marinites to help us solve these issues to preserve the vital service Whistlestop provides to the residents of Marin. âœŚ Bill is a Whistlestop Board member and also on the Board of the Mission San Rafael Rotary Club.

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Home Begins Here

Grand MOM by AUDREY METTEL FIXMER

Better Vision With Age

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ne of the benefits of aging is that our vision improves so much.

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www.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

AUGUST 2012

What? You say you have more trouble reading the fine print on prescription bottles? And you need stronger light bulbs and magnifying glasses? Oh, sure, but that’s not the kind of vision I’m thinking about. I’m thinking of hindsight. You know, they always say that hindsight is 20-20. So here’s what’s so great about it. We have perspective now. We can look back at the things that drove us crazy with worry, like a messy house when guests arrived, and now we know that it was never the picture-perfect house that mattered but the warmth of our hospitality. Giving our kids all that “stuffâ€? didn’t matter, but the time we gave them surely did. Now we don’t judge people solely by their physical beauty; we “seeâ€? the beauty inside. We don’t just see the trees; we see the whole wonderful forest. In our old age we finally get the picture. We have Perspective. Now we are acutely aware that Things are not important, the Things we worked so hard to acquire and then to clean, dust, wash, polish, launder — those are just material things that eventually become a burden. Now we must downsize, dispose of them, pass them down to the kids... if they want them, or donate them to charity. Burden lifted; sigh of relief. If we were blessed to grow up in a faith-filled family, or at least found faith somewhere along the way, we know about the Ten Commandments. “Honor your father and mother; love your neighbor as yourself; don’t covet your neighbor’s wife...â€? What may have seemed a lot of difficult restrictions in our youth we now realize are actually the recipe for a good life that ends in a happy old age. One of my daughters teaches in a beauty school, and when I told her about the subject I was writing on this month, she chuckled. “Mom,â€? she said, “When I talk to my students about the changes in aging skin, the enlarged pores and the wrinkles, I always tell them what you say, that it’s okay because with your fading eyesight you can’t see them anyway.â€? And that’s the wisdom of God’s plan. âœŚ

Whistlestop Has Bargains on Books (And You Get a Cookie Too)

W

histlestop now offers books at bargain prices and tosses in a cookie for free. Money collected from the book sale goes entirely to Whistlestop — no administrative costs because a staff Shirley Young looks for the perfect book. member doubles as “librarian” and cashier. Books are replenished daily — sometimes as often as three times a day. “Bookies and Cookies” is the name that staff gave the project, which features hardbound and softcover books displayed on a counter in the lounge. The books are donated by libraries in Marin County — most of them coming from Tiburon and Mill Valley — and from clients and donors. Some of the books are even autographed by the authors. Hardbound books are $2 and softcovers $1. And don’t forget to grab a cookie. ✦

DO YOU WANT TO BE A TUTOR? The multicultural department is looking for volunteer tutors to help our older adults learn English. This is a great opportunity for people who speak some Spanish and would like to practice their conversation skills. Hours are flexible. If interested, please contact Vicky Voicehowsky at 457-0586. LIFE STORY LEGACY WRITING WRITING THE STORIES OF YOUR LIFE Intro class: Thursday, August 23 & 30 (No Fee) Thursdays, Sept. 6 – Oct. 11 • 2 to 4pm Fee: $6 per person for 6 weeks, payable to Whistlestop Registration required: Call 456-9062 Dana Curtin is a writer, teacher, coach and self-publishing consultant. You have a unique life experience. Your family, memories, challenges and triumphs are a powerful legacy for yourself and future generations. By sharing your stories you gain insight into your own life and the experiences of others. Write alone, uncensored, but share and listen within a safe, supportive group. Each week you will gather to read your two-page story and to hear the stories of others on the same theme. You

RIDE SCHEDULE NUMBER: 454-0964 On behalf of AT&T, we apologize that the wrong number for our Whistlestop Wheels Riding Schedule was printed in the current White Pages. The correct number is 415-454-0964. We also apologize for AT&T to the person whose phone number was listed.

SUDOKU Correct Puzzle (Really!)

MEDIUM

We inadvertently mixed up the Sudoku puzzle and answer in last month’s issue. We are sorry about that and we thank the readers who called this to our attention. So, we are running the correct puzzle on this page and you will find the answers on Page 5. Enjoy!

To solve the Sudoku, each square in the grid must contain a number between one and nine, with the following conditions: • Each row of nine cells must contain each of the numbers from 1 to 9 once and only once. • Each column of nine cells must contain each of the numbers from 1 to 9 once and only once. • Each of the nine 3 by 3 boxes of nine cells must contain each of the numbers from 1 to 9 once and only once. Answers on page 5. whistlestop.org 15

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

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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 is a registered trademark of GreatCall, Inc. Samsung is a registered trademark of Samsung Electronics America, Inc. and/or its related entities. Copyright Š 2012 GreatCall, Inc. Copyright Š 2012 by firstSTREET for Boomers and Beyond, Inc. All rights reserved.

16

Whistlestop Express

AUGUST 2012

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