Whistlestop Express February 2016

E PRESS Marin’s Older Adult Community Connection Since 1954

CELEBRATING MANY CULTURES

ESL Teacher Learns From Her Students Page 2 whistlestop.org

Vietnam Native Grateful For Whistlestop Page 5

From Leningrad to Marin County Page 9 FEBRUARY 2016

WHISTLESTOP 930 Tamalpais Avenue San Rafael, CA 94901 www.whistlestop.org 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 To have the Express emailed sign up at whistlestop.org. For annual subscription mailed to your home, send $10 to Whistlestop.

WHISTLESTOP STAFF Joe O’Hehir, CEO Tom Roberts, Chief Operating Officer Yvonne Roberts, Development and Marketing Director info@whistlestop.org Anita Renzetti, Director of Program Innovation John and Val Bowman,Whistlestop Express Editors, 916-751-9189, john.bowman58@gmail.com Susan Stratman, Mobility Services Manager Laurie Vermont, Volunteer Manager volunteer@whistlestop.org Diana Gruhl, Program Manager BOARD OF DIRECTORS Dennis Ryan, President; Etta Allen, Vice President; Karen Arnold, Treasurer; Cynthia Wuthmann, Secretary; Sharon Jackson • Beth Reizman Robert Sonnenberg PACIFIC SUN STAFF Advertising: Rozan Donals rdonals@pacificsun.com Adam McLaughlin amclaughlin@pacificsun.com Danielle McCoy dmccoy@pacificsun.com Phaedra Strecher, Art Director pstrecher@pacificsun.com Our Mission Whistlestop believes we share a responsibility to ensure all Marin residents have an opportunity to age with dignity, independence and grace.

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Whistlestop PERSPECTIVE

By KATHERINE BRINNIER

Making Contributions to English Learners is Gratifying

I

’ve been a teacher my whole life; I started teaching language at Pickleweed in 1998. I teach the most advanced ESL (English as a Second Language) classes at Whistlestop. My Iranian, Persian, Ukrainian and Japanese students were very well educated in their own language.

Learning to speak a new language opens many doors.

Teaching my students is very satisfying for me, because they get to learn that knowing English is important when you live in this country. I’m so proud when one of my students tells me their child is going on to college!

Teaching is so much more than being a teacher.

You’re a friend. You are a confidante, you are a parent, and you are a counselor.

Many of my past students come back and tell me that knowing English has allowed them to open a small business, or they have found other work where English is a necessity.

Teaching at Whistlestop is different than when I teach people who are younger than I. I’m now talking to people my own age and some who are even older

WHISTLESTOP EXPRESS FEBRUARY 2016

than I am. We are all in this together, whether we realize it or not. We all have health problems. We all have aches and pains and arthritis.

The lessons I learn from my students at Whistlestop are that organic eating is very healthy; we all need to get medical checkups as we age, and everyone should get a flu shot. At Whistlestop, most of my students take ESL classes as a social activity. They like to eat lunch together and join other events to be around people they know and like.

I teach classes on Mondays and Wednesdays.

I work with Hispanic students who need special help to pass their citizenship test. We take practice tests. English classes can be daunting when people first come to the U.S. I have worked at the Canal Alliance as a volunteer ESL teacher. I learned Spanish when I was 55 years old so I could be more helpful to my students.

Several things can contribute to making learning a new language easier: exercise and dancing or playing a musical instrument. Whistlestop’s

We are all in this ‘ together, whether we realize it or not. ’ ukulele group is very successful in teaching people how to play and have fun learning.

There are health benefits for seniors who learn a second language; it helps exercise the brain. I’m 72 and I just love teaching. I feel fortunate to have this opportunity to share what I know.

Katherine Brinnier teaches ESL at Whistlestop.

Learning Second Language Good for the Brain Learning a second language can have a positive effect on the brain, even if it is taken up in adulthood, a University of Edinburgh study suggests. Researchers found that reading, verbal fluency and intelligence were improved in a study of 262 people tested either aged 11 or in their 70s. A previous study suggested that being bilingual could delay the onset of dementia by several years. The study is published in Annals of Neurology.

The big question in this study was whether learning a new language improved cognitive functions or whether individuals with better cognitive abilities were more likely to become bilingual. Dr. Thomas Bak, from the Centre for Cognitive Aging and Cognitive Epidemiology at the University of Edinburgh, said he believed he had found the answer. “Millions of people around the world acquire their second language later in life.

Our study shows that bilingualism, even when acquired in adulthood, may benefit the aging brain. This research paves the way for future causal studies of bilingualism and cognitive decline prevention.”

Much to be Grateful for in U.S. and at Whistlestop

BY MARTA VILLELA MORALES Hispanic Multicultural Coordinator

Jose Luis Rodriguez

J

ose Luis Rodriguez, 93, a member of our Hispanic group at Whistlestop, appreciates the opportunity to socialize at our Active Aging Center. At the same time, he has concerns about how the immigration issue is discussed in the news media.

Jose lives in San Rafael and has five children, 20 grandchildren and more than 50 greatgrandchildren. All of his

children live in the U.S. and some of his grandchildren live in Mexicali, Mexico.

We interviewed Jose as part of the February Express themed stories on Multiculturalism.

Q. Where are you from?

A. I am from Michoacán, Mexico.

Q. What do you miss most about Mexico?

A. I miss all my friends – the ones I used to do trips with like “Jaripeos” (horse shows). I also miss the traditional food I had there.

Q. How long have you been here in the U.S.?

A. I have been in the United States for about 30 years.

Q. What do you like best about being in the U.S.?

A. I like everything because I have centers like Whistlestop where I can have a good time with friends and people from other cultures and

nationalities. It’s a safe place to live, and there is not the same violence as in Mexico. I am afraid to go back to Mexico because people there think we come back with lots of dollars, and there are a lot of kidnappings.

Q. How do you feel about the Immigration discussion going on now on TV and in the news?

A. I feel bad because U.S. government members do not agree about an immigration reform. I think it’s important to resolve this, so the millions of Latin immigrants who work hard to contribute to the U.S. economy will be able to stay here.

Q. What do you appreciate most about Whistlestop?

A. I appreciate that there are so many benefits, such as socializing with other members, meeting people from other cultures, doing exercises, getting good food, and more.

appreciate that there ‘ Iare so many benefits, such as socializing with other members, meeting people from other cultures, doing exercises, getting good food, and more.

’

Skilled Nursing:

only thing you have Where the

to worry about

getting better. is

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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.

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MARIN COUNTY COMMISSION ON AGING Thursday, Feb. 4 10am-12:30pm Where: Marin Office of Education, San Rafael Topic: Research on Aging Speaker: Rammohan Rao, PhD, Buck Institute

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Whistlestop’s Multicultural team members are, from left, Marta Villela, Anna Ladyzhenskaya and Dina Duong, coordinators for Hispanic, Russian and Vietnamese groups respectively.

Multicultural Department Offers Support

T

he Multicultural Department at Whistlestop provides cultural programs that include weekly social group gatherings, language classes, luncheons and picnics, and celebrations for culturally specific holidays, such as the Tet Festival (Vietnamese and Chinese New Year), Russian New Year, Nowruz (Persian New Year), and Cinco de Mayo. We have Spanish speaking, German, French, Vietnamese, Persian, and Russian social groups.

People can take advantage of English, French, Italian, German, and Spanish language classes. The Multicultural Department provides support services and events, as well as cultural arts and exercise programs.

We also provide assistance in Spanish, Vietnamese, Russian, English, and Farsi for issues such as U.S. citizenship, housing opportunities, legal assistance, health

WHISTLESTOP EXPRESS FEBRUARY 2016

education, in-home support, subsidy programs, tutoring, referrals, and translation services upon request. The purpose of these programs

is to connect various cultural groups in Marin by bringing them together to socialize, take classes, and to get the support they need.

To receive more information about these programs and services in English, call 415-456-9062. Spanish language assistance, Marta Villela, ext. 131. Russian language assistance, Anna Ladyzhenskaya, ext. 138.

Vietnamese language assistance, Dina Duong, ext.

129.

There is no cost for consultation services, but there is a small fee for translation and citizenship application services. You can also learn more by viewing our Active Aging Center website multicultural program listings at: http:// www.whistlestop.org/classes/ multicultural-programs/ other-classes/.

Seeking Valentine’s Day Cards

W

histlestop invites everyone to make homemade Valentine’s Day cards for Meals on Wheels participants. Their eyes light up when they receive these cards!

Be creative, let your inner artist come out, and invite children you know to create the cards with you! Mail or deliver your cards to Whistlestop, 930 Tamalpais Ave., San Rafael, 94901. Must arrive by Friday, Feb. 5. Call 415-4569062 for more details.

Getting Older Shouldn’t Mean Leaving Your Comfort Zone

Vietnam Native Loves Being in U.S. and Grateful for Whistlestop Activities

Phan Duong

“I

like how people in Marin, and especially at Whistlestop, care about their elders,” says Phan Duong, who came to the U.S. nine years ago from Vietnam. She said she’s also grateful for benefits like Medicare and especially all of the activities Whistlestop offers members.

Phan came to Marin in 2006 and achieved U.S. citizenship in early December 2015, receiving helpful assistance from the Whistlestop Resource Office.

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.

She said she is very happy she became a citizen because she wants to stay in the U.S. Her daughter sponsored her. Her son and her mother still live in Vietnam and want to remain there.

“I am very happy because I have made a lot of friends.”

Phan added that she likes the culture of Whistlestop that keeps her coming back again and again. “I am still learning about the U.S. all the time.” Meeting with friends at Whistlestop and at Pickleweed helps her better understand U.S. customs and cultures.

Phan lives near Pickleweed and first learned about Whistlestop from programs there.

Phan has been coming regularly to Whistlestop for the past six years.

‘

I am still learning about the U.S all the time.

’

Call 415-449-3777

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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. Join Whistlestop for the 2016 year to enjoy valuable discounts and benefits! Remember to sign up for all classes and events in advance by visiting or calling the front desk at 415-456-9062. *Please note that Whistlestop’s Active Aging Center will be closed on February 15 in honor of President’s Day.

CELEBRATIONS Asian New Year Thurs, Feb 4, 2:30-4:30pm; $5 Suggested Donation

Celebrate the Year of the Monkey with delicious Asian cuisine and entertainment from our Vietnamese social group and Asian community in the Caboose. Sign-up by Feb 1 at our front office.

Venetian Carnival Lunch Thurs, Feb 11, 11:30am-1pm; Entertainment 12-1pm; $10/12 You must buy tickets by Mon, Feb 8

Celebrate a traditional Venetian carnival in our Jackson Cafè with delicious Italian food, decorations, entertainment, and a presentation from popular teacher Karen Raccanello and her Italian language students. Featuring Pasta Penne Bolognese (or Pesto for vegetarians), Antipasto, Italian Salad, Garlic Bread, and Tiramisu.

NEW/HIGHLIGHTED CLASSES & WORKSHOPS Cal Fresh/Food Stamps: Are you Eligible?

Tues, Feb 9, 2-3pm; Free

Instructor: Representative from Marin County Health and Human Services.

Learn the facts about food stamps and eligibility, and dispel the myths with an informational presentation provided by Marin County Health and Human Services.

Watercolor with Anna Starting Wed, Feb 10 for 8 weeks, 10:30 am-12pm; $30/35

Instructor: Anna Ladyzhenskaya • Learn watercolor techniques with talented artist Anna Ladyzhenskaya.

All levels of ability welcome. Supplies provided.

Creating Life Reflection Stories 3 Thursdays starting Feb 11, 2:153:45pm; $15/20 plus $6 workbook fee • Pre-registration required

Instructor: Melanie Vetter, Certified Senior Advisor, Guided Autobiography Instructor, and Legacy Coach.

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Stories are how we transmit our wisdom, lessons, and compassion. They are a gift to our loved ones, a legacy only you can give. Through guided writing and a helpful workbook, you will write several Life Reflection Stories to share with the people who matter most to you. Creative exercises, writing tips, and writing offered each session. All levels of writing experience welcome.

Zentangle Thurs, Feb 18, 1:30-3pm; $3/5

Instructor: Paula Egan, certified Zentangle teacher • Zentangle is an easy-tolearn, relaxing, and fun way to create beautiful images by drawing structured patterns.

Grief Support Presentation Tues, Feb 23, 2:30-3:30pm; Free (Donations Appreciated) Instructor: Kindred Hospice representative • Are you grieving from the loss of a loved one, or want to know how to help a grieving friend or family member? Come to this presentation to learn about coping skills and supportive resources.

NEW/HIGHLIGHTED HEALTH PROGRAMS Tai Chi for Health and Well-being Wed, 9-10am; Fee: $5-10 (sliding scale for members)/$12 non-members Tai Chi offers gentle energy work for all levels of ability. Experience these slow, healing, relaxing exercises from ancient China. This class is on a dropin basis; no advance sign-ups required.

Instructor Calvin Ahlgren has taught at Whistlestop for eight years.

Weekly Blood Pressure, Cholesterol Screenings, & Medication Reviews Fridays, 9:30-11am; Free (Donations Appreciated)

Free weekly blood pressure and cholesterol screenings, and medication reviews are being provided by Bright Star Care, a home care agency that provides home care, caregivers, and medical staffing solutions to families and businesses in Marin. Call 415332-3300 for more information about BrightStar services.

WHISTLESTOP EXPRESS FEBRUARY 2016

Monthly Blood Pressure Screening and Medication Review Tues, Feb 9, 11am-1pm; Free (Donations Appreciated)

Free monthly blood pressure screenings provided by Dominican University nursing students. Bring your medications (over-the-counter and prescriptions) for review.

Medicare 101 Seminar: Learn the Nuts and Bolts Wed, Feb 10, 10:30am-12:30pm; Free (Donations Appreciated) Instructor: Cara Suminski of SCAN Health Plan

Turning 65? Losing coverage with an employer? Medicare can be confusing.

What’s the difference between Part A and Part B? How much gets deducted from Social Security? What are your options? This event is only for educational purposes and no plan-specific benefits or details will be shared.

HIGHLIGHTED SUPPORT SERVICES Multicultural Consultants Offer Help

By appointment: 415-456-9062 Spanish/English: Marta Villela, ext.

131; Russian/English: Anna Ladyzhenskaya, ext. 138; Vietnamese/ English: Dina Duong, ext. 129 • No fee for consultations; small fee may apply for translation services. Whistlestop offers assistance to English and non-English speakers in Spanish, Russian and Vietnamese. We assist with applications for many social services, such as healthcare management, citizenship, housing, employment, and federal assistance, plus translations and referrals.

Homeshare Program

For appointments call Leslie Klor: 415456-9062, ext. 132; Free (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. Do you have a room to share, or do you need a place to live?

Do you know someone who can use our services?

Telephone Reassurance Program

For information and to register call Leslie Klor: 415-456-9062, ext. 132 Free (Donations Appreciated) Do you live alone? Would you like someone to care about how you are doing? If you often feel isolated and are looking for connection and peace of mind, this program is for you. Trained volunteers will call you three mornings a week to check on you. They can answer questions about other senior resources. We now also offer this service in Spanish.

Rotary Home Team Sat, Feb 20, 9am-1pm

Must sign up with Leslie by Feb12, 415-456-9062, ext. 132; Free (Donations Appreciated) If you are a San Rafael homeowner, the Rotary Home Team offers a free service for seniors and people with disabilities who may have financial or physical challenges in performing basic household repairs.

Resources, Outreach, & Assistance for Victims and Witnesses of Crime 2nd & 4th Thursdays, 9am-12pm

Yolanda Johnson, Advocate from the District Attorney’s office, will be available to meet with you to answer questions, provide information, and connect you to resources, or you can call 415-473-6450.

Free Legal Consultation for Adults Four Thursdays from 3-5pm monthly at Whistlestop; 1st and 3rd Thursdays from 12:30-2:30pm, Mill Valley Community Center

By appointment only: 415-459-6700 for appointments at both locations Legal Aid of Marin provides a free 30-minute legal consultation for Marin County residents who are 60 years and older. Four Marin lawyers volunteer to give general advice, offer options, explain rights and, if appropriate, refer to attorneys who have expertise in specific areas of law.

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 TUESDAYS WEDNESDAYS THURSDAYS

INFO

FEE

Zumba Drop-in Y 10AM–1PM Therapeutic Massage Drop-in Y

10AM–NOON Computer Lab Drop-in N 10:30AM–NOON German Social Group Drop-in N

10:30AM–1:30PM Persian Social Group 415-472-6020 N

11AM–12PM Music and Movement In Session Y

12:30–1:30PM Russian Social Group 415-456-9062 x138 N

2–3:30PM ESL 75 Basic 415-456-9062 x131 Y

2–3:30PM ESL 150 Basic 415-456-9062 x131 Y

2–3:30PM ESL 250 Advanced 415-456-9062 x131 Y

9:30–10:30 AM Whistlesizers Drop-in Y 10AM–NOON Mah Jongg 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 Beg./Int. Conversational Spanish Drop-in Y

9–10:15AM Tai Chi Drop-in Y

10–11:30AM Seniors’ Circle Drop-in N

10:30AM–1:30PM Persian Social Group 415-472-6020 N

* 11AM–1PM Corazón Latino 415-456-9062 x131 N

2–3:30PM ESL 75 Basic 415-456-9062 x131 Y

2–3:30PM ESL 150 Basic 415-456-9062 x131 Y

2–3:30PM ESL 250 Advanced 415-456-9062 x131 Y

3:30–5PM Citizenship Class Y

9:30–10:30AM Zumba Drop-in Y

10AM–1PM Therapeutic Massage Drop-in Y

11AM–NOON Whistlesizers Drop-in Y

12:15–2:15PM Vietnamese Social Group 415-456-9062 x129 N

1–2:30PM Intermediate Italian Ends 2/25 Y

2:30–3:30PM Beginning Italian 1/21-3/31 Y

2:45–3:45PM Balance Class Drop-in Y

3:00–4:30PM Beginning Bridge Ends 2/18 Y 8:30AM Community Breakfast Drop-in Y 9:30–11AM Weekly Blood Pressure N 11AM–NOON Brown Bag Pantry 456-9062 x117 N 1:30–3PM ACASA Drop-in (cancel 2/19) N 1:30–3PM Spanish Club Drop-in N 2–3:30PM Movie Time 2/12 & 2/26 Y 2–4PM Ping-Pong 2/5 & 2/19 Y 3–4PM Yoga Drop-in Y

FRIDAYS

CLASS

9:30–10:30AM

* Except for Corazón 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.

February and March 2016 Intro to Computers (Windows) Tuesdays, Feb 2, 9, 16 & 23 (4 classes), 10am-Noon

Fee: $65 Maximum 8 people 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, use Windows components to create and print a document, identify the basic parts of a computer and their use, search the Internet to find information and set up an email account.

iPad/iPhone Basics 1: Getting to Know Your Device Tuesdays, Mar 8 & 15, (2 classes), 10am-Noon

Fee: $48 Maximum 8 people Congratulations, you finally got your own iPhone or iPad but you have no idea how to use it. In this personalized, two week course, you’ll be guided through how to make calls, send emails, send texts, download music and add applications. Sessions provide one-on-one help. Handouts.

ONGOING Open Lab Every Monday and Wednesday, 10am-Noon

No Fee • Use our PCs for your own purposes, such as accessing the Internet.

Volunteer staff available for advice on problems with your electronic devices, laptops, tablets, and software applications.

NEW WHISTLESTAR MEMBERSHIPS: JOIN NOW for $10-$20 (sliding scale) and your membership is good through Dec. 31, 2016.

Jackson Café NEW LUNCH PRICES

Monday-Friday • 11:30am-2:00pm Located in Whistlestop Active Aging Center • Open to the Public •

Whistlestop and Jackson Café are closed Monday 2/15/16.

WHISTLESTAR MEMBER (LOWEST PRICE) /NON-MEMBER Main Entrée $6/$8 (includes coffee or hot tea) Burger and Fries $6/$7 Sandwiches $6/$7 Soup du Jour (bowl) $4/$5 Garden/Caesar Salads $5/$6

OTHER ITEMS Beverages $2 Fruit $3 Desserts $3 Add Cheese $1

PRICES INCLUDE TAX

WHISTLESTOP EXPRESS FEBRUARY 2016

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Arian, left, and Kasra, who study Farsi at Whistlestop.

Children Also Benefit from Classes at Whistlestop

W

hile Whistlestop has been Marin’s older adult connection for 62 years, occasionally youngsters are seen benefiting from some of the center’s classes. Two examples are Arian, 10, a fifth grader, and Kasra, 9, a fourth grader, who are Farsi classmates here.

Arian, who was born in the U.S., has been learning Farsi for five years now.

She said her teacher, Mrs. Mehrbanoo Esmaili, has helped them to read books written in Farsi. “We also learn how to write and give dance performances,” she said. “We will be giving a big performance in Marin County for the Persian New Year on March 21, which is the first day of spring.”

Arian likes to give speeches and tell jokes in Farsi, as well as using Farsi

I like to peek inside ‘the rooms; I see lots

of fun looking stuff like older people making cards, eating yummy food, and playing ping pong.

’

when she’s conversing at home. “My parents want me to learn the language of where they were born (Iran).” And she enjoys getting in touch with her culture. But she does her homework in English.

Kasra says, “Farsi class is good and I like learning to speak the language.”

He added, “Sometimes we see seniors at Whistlestop when we are dropped off Continued on page 9

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WHISTLESTOP EXPRESS FEBRUARY 2016

From Leningrad to Whistlestop

By ANNA LADYZHENSKAYA Russian Multicultural Coordinator

We celebrate ‘ New Year’s twice. ’

Genrikh Laumberg

G

enrikh Laumberg has lived through much as a Russian citizen and now a resident of Marin County, and he finds Whistlestop a unique place that provides vital services to older adults.

We interviewed Genrikh, aged 82, who came here from Leningrad (Saint Petersburg). His answers follow:

Q. What do you think about the way Russians are portrayed in American media – in the news, in movies, on TV? Genrikh: In the news and most movies, Russians are portrayed very honestly and objectively. I like “Homeland” very much and the old movie “Moscow on the Hudson.” But one movie, “The Gambler,” (based on Dostoevsky’s novel) shows Saint Petersburg and Russia as one grey street. It is not like that.

Q. What special Russian meals do you most enjoy?

Do you cook at home and are there any Russian restaurants that you like here?

A. My wife and I mostly cook and eat at home.

Generally, I eat very simple.

I am 82 years old. I lived through World War II so I am not spoiled that way. My favorite food is cabbage and everything from fresh and pickled cabbage to stuffed cabbage leaves and cabbage soup. My favorite restaurant is L’Olivier in San Francisco.

The owner is Russian and we love food there. It is expensive so we’ve gone there only a couple of times to celebrate my wife’s and my anniversary.

Q. Which Russian holidays do you celebrate?

A. We celebrate New Year’s twice. This is a tradition. First on December 31-January 1 and then January 13, which is Old Russian New Year. The Old Russian Calendar was 13 days apart and December 31 happened January 13.

We also celebrate the World War II Victory Day on May 9 every year.

Q. Which American holidays do you celebrate?

A. We celebrate Thanksgiving and Fourth of July – Independence Day. Q. What do you appreciate most about Whistlestop?

A. Whistlestop is a very good organization.

We appreciate very much everything it does: the resources and information; having a Russian-speaking Coordinator who helps most of us who can’t communicate in English is a huge deal. Also, help with citizenship preparation; ESL classes, regular food donation; transportation.

These are all vital needs, especially for immigrants like us. Thank you so much for all you do! Have a great New Year!

CHILDREN continued from page 8

for our class. I like to peek inside the rooms; I see lots of fun looking stuff like older people making cards, eating yummy food, and playing ping pong. I’d like to play ping pong with the seniors if I wasn’t taking Farsi lessons!”

Both children have made presentations about Persian culture as part of their schoolwork. Arian learned Farsi before she learned English. Kasra says learning Farsi is challenging. “It is harder to learn Farsi when you speak English first, because Farsi can be confusing.”

Persian is a Poetic Language The Persian language is one of the world’s oldest languages still in use today, and is known to have one of the most powerful literary traditions, with formidable Persian poets like Ferdowsi, Hafiz, Khayyam, Attar, Saadi, Nizami, Roudaki, Rumi and Sanai. By native speakers it eventually came to be known as Farsi, which was the Arabic form of Parsi as there is no “P” sound in Arabic. Additionally, Persian was constitutionally renamed from Farsi to Dari in Afghanistan during the 1960s.

The dialect of Persian spoken in Tajikistan is called Tajiki.

“Persian” has historically referred to some Iranian languages, however what today is referred to as the Persian language is part of the Western group of the Iranian languages branch of the Indo-European language family. Today, speakers of the western dialect of Persian form the majority in Iran.

(From Wikipedia)

WHISTLESTOP EXPRESS FEBRUARY 2016

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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...

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(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

Jennifer Holland, PT CA Lic #10957

10 WHISTLESTOP EXPRESS FEBRUARY 2016

VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH

Lisa Zaslove

Lisa Zaslove began volunteering at Whistlestop in October of 2012 shortly after she retired from her job as the Mental Health Training Director at Walden House in San Francisco. She was looking for something meaningful to do with her time and decided to put her unused teaching certificate to use. Lisa found her passion at Whistlestop in the English as a Second Language (ESL) tutoring program.

In the three years she has been here, she has taught, mentored and connected with four adult students. She is still working with several of them who are now lifelong friends. Through the process of learning English, Lisa and her students share life stories, family issues, work concerns, and desires.

By having a safe and nurturing place to practice their English, students are able to grow and expand their horizons for a better future. The support they get in the tutoring program goes beyond the basic reading, writing and citizenship studies. Lisa is able to gently give them advice and correct them so they progress and have more active and fulfilling lives.

Lisa grew up in Los Angeles, lived for a while in the Philippines and has called Marin home since the ‘90’s.

In addition to tutoring at Whistlestop, Lisa also teaches Intermediate English through Canal Alliance and still supervises several interns through her former job. She spends some of her spare time practicing Tai Chi, folk dancing, studying and watching great films and taking care of her African Gray parrot.

Lisa said, “Most people do not realize the huge personal rewards which come from helping someone improve their lives. The love and appreciation that comes from this oneon-one interaction is a win-win for everyone.”

Ana Q., one of Lisa’s students, said of her teacher, “Lisa’s dedication and patience helped me improve my writing and grammar skills for my work. I am thankful for all she does.”

If you would like information about our ESL tutoring program – teaching or language experience are helpful but not required – or any other volunteer opportunities at Whistlestop, please call Laurie at 415-456-9062, ext. 117, or email: lvermont@whistlestop.org.

The Bird’s Side of MARIN

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Sandhill Cranes: Ma, Pa & Junior, Photo taken in the Delta, January 1, 2014.

How to Become a Birder Tips from Audubon: Start by getting your hands on a field guide. Any book will do as long as it has pictures of each bird and maps of their range. Keep this book in a place where you’ll be able to leisurely flip through it for a couple minutes each day. What are the different kinds of birds? Where do they live, and in what seasons? To supplement your field guide examination, learn some things about avian biology and the sport of birding. Watch all of the BBC’s Life of Birds series, hosted by your new hero David Attenborough. Learn about why birds are birds, and how they’ve evolved into such incredible creatures.

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

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

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WHISTLESTOP EXPRESS FEBRUARY 2016

11

Whistlestop

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

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES Make a difference in an older adult’s life.

Whistlestop CarePool Volunteer Driver Program

This position offers round trip rides to ambulatory older adults going to the doctor or grocery store. Drivers use their own cars and receive ride requests through email. Drivers can accept or decline the calls, and drive on their own schedule. Ride lengths vary from 30 minutes to four hours for each round trip. Volunteers must have access to reliable passenger automobile with current insurance certificate, a valid California Driver’s License and a clear background check and DMV report.

Jackson Café Lunch Servers, Cashiers & Friday Community Breakfast Servers

Whistlestop Seniors’ Circle, an open support group, meets 10-11:30am Wednesdays.

Want to Advertise?

Contact the Pacific Sun at 415-485-6700 for rates and deadlines

12 WHISTLESTOP EXPRESS FEBRUARY 2016

The Jackson Café provides a warm and comfortable setting for older adults to eat a nutritious meal at an affordable price. Café volunteers provide friendly greetings, excellent customer service and support social interaction.

Café volunteers receive a free breakfast or lunch. Lunch hour shifts are: Monday to Friday, 10:45am-2pm. The Café is open from 11:30am-2pm. Cashier or food service experience is a plus but not required. The Friday morning breakfast shift is from 8:30-10:30am. Breakfast is served from 9-10am on Friday only.

Brown Bag Pantry Volunteers Needed

Helpers needed on Friday morning from 9:15am-12:15pm for the Brown Bag Pantry. Unload truck from Food Bank, sort produce, greet and help recipients get their food. This fun group is looking for new members. Ability to lift 25 lbs. is a plus.

Meals on Wheels Drivers Needed Meals on Wheels volunteer drivers are needed to deliver meals to homebound seniors. A valid California Driver’s License and a clear DMV report are needed as well as a reliable vehicle and current insurance certificate. A minimum of one 3-hour weekday shift is required.

To learn more about these opportunities or others contact: volunteer@whistlestop.org. Phone: 415-456-9062 ext. 117 www.whistlestop.org