Whistlestop Express

Page 1

Whistlestop OCTOBER 2011

E PRESS

Whistlestop.org

The Leading Information Resource for Marin's Active Aging Movement

85-Year-Old Wins Best in Show in Whistlestop Photo Contest

A

majestic cheetah, appealing snow monkeys, a shadowy figure at a train station, and an array of Marin County vistas are among winners in the third annual Whistlestop Photo Contest. Best in Show went to the cheetah photographed by George Cunha of San Rafael at

a South African Rescue Institute. George told Whistlestop, “Cheetahs are an endangered species because the grasslands, which is their natural habitat, are disappearing, and they have to make a living in areas where they must comcontinued on page 6 ◗ Best in Show Taken by George Cunha

Architect Stays Busy at 95 by JOHN BOWMAN

N

inety may be the new 80 in some places, but in Marin County, many nonagenarians work and act as if they were in their 50s. In this issue of Whistlestop Express, we honor a number of those 90-somethings. Ed Hageman, 95, of San Rafael continues to work as an architect Tuesday through Friday. His wife of 70 years, Bette, is 90, and they have two children, Richard Hageman, a banker, and Susan Jean Nelson, a retired teacher. He designed the remodeling and additions to the present Whistlestop building, which

Country Lawyer Still Busy at 95 page 13

he remembers as being “a little railroad building” back in the day. His work there included adding a kitchen plus the upper floors. The clock tower, a downtown San Rafael landmark, was his design idea. His other major projects in Marin include the Boy Scout Building on Greenfield Avenue and the Corte Madera Recreation Center. A huge project in earlier days was the re-design of the Westlake Homes in Daly City. Ed’s old boss, developer Henry Doelger, for whom he once worked, first developed Westlake in the 1950s. It was

Grand Mom's Friend at 90 page 15

one of the earliest examples of a large-tract suburb and was featured in Life magazine. Later Doegler came to Hageman to do the re-design. The project received heavy media attention and Ed was dubbed “The Wizard of Westlake.” Hageman calls himself a “meat and potatoes” designer, and he once told a San Francisco Chronicle interviewer that, “I designed homes for people who thought they never could afford me.” He said that business has been slow during the current sluggish economy, but he just finished a project of four homes for a contractor in Novato. He also recently completed work on a $3 million home in San Anselmo that Ed continued on page 6

From Rocky's Pantry page 4

Whistlestop PERSPECTIVE

Table of

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

Readers Write In Molly Light From Rocky's Pantry Rocky Packard First Place Photos At Whistlestop Whistlestop Activities Calendar The Bird's Side of Marin Richard Pavek Country Lawyer Carl Shapiro Grand Mom Audrey Mettel Fixmer Word Search

LIKE US on Facebook

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 • Eleanor Delaney • Claudia Fromm Jane Lott • Debbie Mills • Bill Saul Bob Sonnenberg • Jeff Stoffer Whistlestop Express is a publication of the Marin Senior Coordinating Council, Inc. A 501 (c) 3 not-for-profit organization The Mission of Whistlestop: To promote the independence and well-being of Marin County’s older adults and individuals with disabilities to enhance their quality of life. 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, ext. 141. Or send an email, with your request, your name and address to INFO@whistlestop.org. Subscriptions mailed to your home are $10/year.

2

Whistlestop Express OCTOBER 2011

by JOHN BOWMAN

Seniors' Circle — A Place to be Really Heard

S

teve Olian, 73, of San Ra- listening.’ He added, “We work fael, is a retired financial out our own issues. Indepenanalyst and management dence is important. And we all consultant, but what brings him work hard to achieve and susalive these days is helping to tain inner peace.” facilitate the Seniors’ Circle that Some of the issues that come meets every Wednesday from 10 up include loss, illness, finanto 11:30 at Whistlestop. cial concerns and isolation, “It is a place to explore and which is often tied to the loss work out problems. It’s not of a driver’s license. therapy or fix-it. We Steve has been a (the facilitators) crefor the past 'Love is facilitator ate a safe and confive or six years. He listening' and the other facilitafidential place, and then we get out of the tors are volunteers. way.” Joining Steve as facilita- “This is free and open to tors are Hermann Clasen and anyone 55 or older. No money Larry Gonski. exchanges hands.” The group is for people 55 The group meets in the and older. It is an outgrowth of Whistlestop Board Room and, CorStone (formerly the Interthey start and end every meetnational Center for Attitudinal ing by holding hands around Healing), which was founded the table “to symbolize that we by Jerry Jampolsky of Sauare all connected.” salito, and has been sponsored Steve feels very close to the by Whistlestop for the past 15 other facilitators and to everyyears. Steve is delighted that one who participates. the group is about 50-50, men He appreciates the principles and women, which is unusual. and guidelines of Jampolsky. There are about 20 people who “Jerry is the one who started participate; usually 12 to 14 the concept of a lay group that show up each week. supports one another. He is now There are two generations in his 80s and is still doing this represented – those in their 60s work very actively. He travels and those in their 90s. Somethe world and recently was times parents and children are spreading the word in Mongothere together. lia.” Jampolsky has a home in “This is not a place to come Marin and one on the Big Island and have your problems solved. of Hawaii. For information We, all of us, give the gift of about the Seniors’ Circle, call listening. Our saying is ‘Love is 415-388-6161. ✦

Readers Invited to Write in We love to hear from our readers. If you have an interesting story or opinion to share, please send it, 400 words or less, to Readers Write In, Whistlestop Express, 930 Tamalpais Ave., San Rafael, CA 94901, or email it to john.bowman58@gmail.com.

Readers

WRITE IN Laughing at Life’s Absurdities by MOLLY LIGHT, SAUSALITO

I

love to laugh. The absurdity of life provides fodder for a lifetime of laughs. Throughout my childhood, into adolescence and early childhood, however, I felt either extremely serious or desperately depressed. Maybe to be more honest, I usually felt serious and depressed. Life events impacted me profoundly, often negatively, and I did not have the skills at the time to rid myself of the sense of helplessness that seemed to follow me wherever I went. I empathized most easily with the downtrodden and carried my “outsidernessâ€? to every negative experience I endured – and it felt like endurance. Stand-up comedians never made me feel like laughing. Their humor seemed to me to be based on the need to degrade others for their unfortunate missteps. To me, their jokes were derived from the negative stereotyping of a particular group of people (mostly wives from what I remember). Usually, I would feel as if I were the only one not laughing. The experience served to underline how different I felt I was from most people. The older I get, however, the more I can see how much we are really all alike. Our outer shell, of course, is different, but we all intimately know the experience of joy, heartbreak and absurdity inherent in the human condition. As dissimilar as all of our lives might seem on the outside, every one of us knows what it is like to experience the whole gamut of human emotions. I keep learning over and over again that it is our perspective that really makes the difference. Sometimes things that appear so terribly tragic can seem humorous if we are able to change how we look at them. It is much more fun to laugh. And since things in life rarely make total sense, why not focus on life’s absurdities and let go of it all feeling so personal. Since we are all in it together, why don’t we look for reasons to laugh together instead of feeling it necessary to cry alone. Molly is just one of the dozens of writers who participate each week in the Remembrance Writing class. âœŚ

Soothe, Heal, Reverse and Restore After Breast Cancer Treatments Did you know that there is a way to help avoid multiple reconstructive surgeries after breast cancer treatments?

N E TIO RICSULTA P . LF N HA N CO is ad 9 A h I t 13 C YSI with nly $ PH O

We are the ONLY Medical-grade and Industry-regulated Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy facility in Marin

CONDITIONS PAID BY INSURANCE UĂŠ*ÂœĂƒĂŒÂ‡,>`ˆ>ĂŒÂˆÂœÂ˜ĂŠ >“>}i UĂŠ œ˜‡ i>Â?ˆ˜}ĂŠ7ÂœĂ•Â˜`Ăƒ UĂŠ œ˜‡ i>Â?ˆ˜}ĂŠ œ˜iĂƒ UĂŠ Â…Ă€ÂœÂ˜ÂˆVĂŠ ˜viVĂŒÂˆÂœÂ˜Ăƒ UĂŠ Ă€Ă•ĂƒÂ…ĂŠ ˜Â?Ă•Ă€ÂˆiĂƒĂ‰/Ă€>Փ> UĂŠ ˆ>LiĂŒÂˆVĂŠ1Â?ViĂ€Ăƒ

UĂŠ Ă•Ă€Â˜Ăƒ UĂŠ-ÂŽÂˆÂ˜ĂŠ Ă€>vĂŒĂŠ ĂƒĂƒĂ•iĂƒ UĂŠ ˜`ĂŠ ÂœĂ€it

ALSO BENEFITED s -ĂŒĂ€ÂœÂŽiĂŠs i>`ĂŠ ˜Â?Ă•Ă€ÂˆiĂƒĂŠs Â…Ă€ÂœÂ˜ÂˆVĂŠ ޓiĂŠ ÂˆĂƒi>ĂƒiĂŠs -É -ĂŠs Ă€>ÂˆÂ˜ĂŠ Ă•Â˜VĂŒÂˆÂœÂ˜

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy of Marin. Advanced Hyperbaric Recovery

415.785.8652 ImproveHealing.com

,!2+3052 ,!.$).' #)2#,% s ,!2+3052

Give the gift of health‌

Therapeutic Yoga For Older Adults

YOGa TO YOuŠ

YOGa TO YOu seeks to share the ancient wisdom found in yoga, now widely embraced by integrated medicine that underscore the health benefits of yoga. We take Yoga to individuals and groups in their private homes, or in assisted living centers, nursing homes, independent living sites, and other residential care facilities for older adults. Call for a Free demonstration today!

Dr. Melanie Hahn )NFO YOGA TO YOU COM s HTTP YOGA TO YOU COM

s whistlestop.org 3

Pure Thai Acupressure

From Rocky's PANTRY B Y R O C K Y PA C K A R D

&OOT !CUPRESSURE s 4HAI "ODY -ASSAGE

Special Senior Discount

15% Off All Services

In-Home Appointments Available upon Request.

45 Camino Alto Suite 202 (2nd Floor) Mill Valley s WWW WIX COM PURETHAIAC ACU Available: Independent and Residential Living UĂŠNo Buy-In FeesĂŠ UĂŠ ÂœÂ˜ĂŒÂ…ĂŠĂŒÂœĂŠ ÂœÂ˜ĂŒÂ…ĂŠ,iÂ˜ĂŒ>Â?Ăƒ UĂŠ ˜}>}ˆ˜}ĂŠ VĂŒÂˆĂ›iĂŠ ˆviĂƒĂŒĂžÂ?i

UĂŠ ÂœÂ“Â“Ă•Â˜ÂˆĂŒĂžĂŠ"Ă€}>˜ˆVĂŠ >Ă€`i˜ UĂŠ Ă?ĂŒiÂ˜ĂƒÂˆĂ›iĂŠ >VˆÂ?ÂˆĂŒÂˆiĂƒĂŠEĂŠ-iĂ€Ă›ÂˆViĂƒ UĂŠ ÂœÂ“ÂŤĂ€iÂ…iÂ˜ĂƒÂˆĂ›iĂŠ >Ă€iĂŠ-ÂœÂ?Ă•ĂŒÂˆÂœÂ˜Ăƒ

www.TheRedwoods.org {äĂŠ >Â“ÂˆÂ˜ÂœĂŠ Â?ĂŒÂœĂŠ ˆÂ?Â?ĂŠ6>Â?Â?iĂž]ĂŠ ʙ{™{ÂŁĂŠ ­{ÂŁxÂŽĂŠĂŽn·ÓÇ{ÂŁ - ›Êä£ääääΙäĂŠĂŠĂŠ, ›ÊÓ£ä£äĂ“nĂˆĂˆ

Are You Happy With Your Bank CD? Consider a Certificate of Deposit that combines the ‘guaranteed’ return of Principal, the ‘protection’ of FDIC Insurance, and the ‘potential’ to earn a Greater Rate-of-Return. For more information Call Today!

415-382-1831 RETIREMENT PLANNING $ERVICE$

Novato, CA Tom Weber, Senior Financial Adviser tsw1291@aol.com 4

Whistlestop Express OCTOBER 2011

Chimichurri Sauce

T

his South American condiment is an excellent cold sauce for grilled poultry, beef and lamb. It’s traditionally served with grilled steak, and is an essential part of the Argentinean parilla, but it goes great with chicken and fish too. Chimichurri works well as a marinade, and is also delicious on vegetables. If you’re a little experimental, try adding more chili flakes to spice it up. Servings: 1 1/2 cup shallots , finely minced 1 bunch thyme, fresh and finely chopped 1 cup parsley, fresh and finely chopped 1 Tbs garlic , chopped 3/4 cup olive oil 1 Tbs lemon juice 1 tsp chili flakes salt to taste Combine all of the ingredients and season to taste. Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 1,448 Calories; 162g Fat (98.7% calories from fat); 1g Protein; 4g Carbohydrate; trace Dietary Fiber; Omg Cholesterol; 2mg Sodium. Exchanges: 1/2 Vegetable; 0 Fruit; 32 1/2 Fat.âœŚ

Low Cost Mammograms

T

he Breast Diagnostic Center of Marin will be offering low cost screening mammograms for women who need financial assistance on Saturday, October 22. The reduced rate will be $80. Patients must have an ordering physician to schedule the exam. The center emphasizes that exams will be for routine screening mammograms only. The $80 fee does not include further diagnostic imaging or procedures. The center offers digital exams. Digital mammography captures images electronically, allowing them to be viewed instantly on a computer monitor. The Breast Diagnostic Center of Marin is located at 1240 S. Eliseo Drive, Suite 203, in Greenbrae. For scheduling, please call 415-925-7301. âœŚ

Writing for Her Life B Y F R A N CO H E N , S A N R A FA E L

F

ran Cohen has been a dedicated member of Claudia Carroll’s Remembrance Writing class. One morning, on the group’s regular meeting day, Fran awoke in such discomfort she had to call 911. When the paramedics insisted she needed to go to the hospital, Fran said, “I can’t go to the hospital today. I have a ‘I can’t go to the writers’ group meeting this afternoon.â€? She did hospital today. go to the hospital but she I have a writers’ was home in time for the group meeting meeting. In the spring of last this afternoon.’ year, Fran won a prize in the Whistlestop Express poetry contest for the first poem she ever wrote. She was 96 when Claudia helped her publish her first writing anthology, Reflections of My Life. Fran reflects: “Living where I do, in my San Rafael Community apartment, has been an experience for me — learning to get along with so many people of different backgrounds. You can make good friends if you choose to.â€? She says she tries not to miss any of the activities. “Who wouldn’t enjoy fitness, brain games, painting, remembrance writing, and so many other social affairs?â€? Fran has traveled to visit great-grandchildren in Pennsylvania and Maryland, and to see a son in Illinois. She is grateful that her daughter, Bonnie, encouraged her to move to California from Illinois and happy that her sister, Selma, has joined her at at her community apartments. Fran plans to keep writing and creating. “I only hope I can keep writing these stories of my life until I am 100 (or more?) Who knows?â€? âœŚ

Register today for our

Free Marin Seminar Series % 3IR &RANCIS $RAKE "LVD ,ARKSPUR

A M s /CTOBER s .OVEMBER Estate Planning Options for DifďŹ cult Family Situations

My Life, My Choices: Planning for Future Healthcare Decisions

And coming in 2012 s %STATE 0LANNING FOR 3INGLES $OMESTIC 0ARTNERS s (OW TO +NOW IF 9OU .EED 4O 5PDATE 9OUR %STATE 0LAN s %STATE 0RESERVATION IN 5NCERTAIN %CONOMIC 4IMES s -Y ,IFE -Y #HOICES 0LANNING FOR &UTURE (EALTHCARE $ECISIONS

Visit our website for details, to register online and for seminars in San Francisco and Santa Rosa

HBTB ORG s s

HEALTH CARE CONNECTION

Puzzle

ANSWERS

415 4572256 www.HealthCareConnectionLLC.com whistlestop.org 5

< Photo Contest continued from page 1 pete with lions and leopards, which are about three times heavier. Often mothers with cubs are killed, and this organization tries to rescue the babies and raise them. For a fee, you can pet them, and they purr loudly, just like housecats. Of course, their keepers keep a firm hand on them. This cheetah’s name is Jacob.” When asked if he will be attending the winners’ reception, George, at 85, said, “I had better say that my attendance at the reception is contingent upon my being around. To borrow a line from George Burns – ‘I don’t even buy green bananas these days.’” All winners will be honored at a reception at Whistlestop starting at 5:30 pm on Tuesday, November 1. Co-sponsoring the event with

Whistlestop is Marin Filmworks of San Rafael. Judges in the contest were two prominent Marin County photographers, Terry Scussel and Marilyn Bagshaw. Other winners: Marin Category: 1st, Donna Lunsford, 67, Sausalito, for “Reflection on Mt. Tam”; 2nd, Philip Buchanan, 68, Bolinas, “Bolinas Lagoon Morning”; 3rd, Rick Budde, 68, Novato, “Firefighters at 2008 Hamilton Warehouse Fire”; 4th, John Carr, “Lake on Mt. Tam.” Nature: 1st, Catherine Dobbins d’Alessio, 65, Ross, “Snow Monkeys”; 2nd, Jon W. d’Alessio, 65, Ross, “Albatross Takeoff”; 3rd, Michael V. Hancock, 60plus, Tiburon, “Golden Mantled Ground Squirrel.”

< Ed Hageman continued from page 1

ative Design in Downtown San Francisco. After school, he started working as an artist for Fox West Coast Theatres in San Francisco, doing artwork for lobby displays. Next, he went to work for Doegler, who was famous for building the Sunset District. Hageman started as a draftsman and later was promoted to the position of head designer. He served in the U.S. Army in World War II and then, in 1947, opened his own architectural of-

says “turned out very nice.” He credits some great teachers in his early school with preparing him for a successful career. He graduated from San Francisco Polytechnic High School and learned about mechanical drawing while taking a double load of classes. “I realized early on that I was not cut out to be a scientist,” he said. “But I really liked design.” He won a scholarship to an art school – the Rudolph Schaeffer School of Rythu Cre-

Travel: 1st, Ann Rivo, 72, San Rafael, “The Rice Ballet, Vietnam”; 2nd, Catherine Dobbins d’Alessio, “Tango Dancers”; 3rd, Janice Hughes, 60, San Rafael, “Mexican Weaver”; 4th, Elaine Bachelder, 84, Corte Madera, “Moonset at White Sand, New Mexico.” Pictorial: 1st, Gale S. McKee, 65, San Rafael, “Time Travel, Union Station, Chicago”; 2nd, Michael Hancock, “Fun in the Sun”; 3rd, Ann Rivo, “The Red Barn, Palouse Wheatfields, Washington State”; 4th, Janice Hughes, “Willow Tree.” First place winners are displayed in this issue. Second and third place winning photos will be published in our November issue. ✦

Bette and Ed Hageman fice in Marin. He said he loves his work and has no plans to retire. ✦

Families with Aging Parents Trust Aging Solutions

W

Serving Marin, Sonoma and Napa Counties

FAMILIES - YOU CHOOSE YOUR CAREGIVER Free In-Home Assessment

Medication reminders / Personal Care Assistance Errands / Shopping / Meal preparation Regularly supervised visits and re-evaluations Continuity of Caregiver Over 15 years experience

Part-time / Full-time, Short-term / Long-Term Nationwide background check and drug testing required for all caregivers Bonded and Insured Long Term Care Insurance accepted

CALL TODAY & RECEIVE A FREE HOUR OF CARE 415-895-5185 t 855-219-7118 www.InYourHomeCareForLife.com

6

Whistlestop Express OCTOBER 2011

e can help you with

THE HELP YOU NEED, AT THE TIME YOU NEED IT—

Changes

IN YOUR HOME

415.324.5088 WE BILL INSURANCE ON YOUR BEHALF

in parents’ lives and Alzheimer’s Financial exploitation Medication and alcohol issues Coordination of services Dementia

Expert Advisors to Families Since 1997 www.agingsolutions.com

First Place Winners in Photo Contest

â—— Marin: Taken by Donna Lunsford of Sausalito, from the family houseboat, looking toward Mt. Tam and Highway 101.

◗ Nature: Snow Monkeys warming and bathing in hot springs tub in Japan, by Catherine Dobbins d’Alessio of Ross. ◗ Pictorial: Gale S. McKee of San Rafael explained,“For some reason, at that particular time, this man was the only one visible in my camera lens. He was rushing up the stairs to catch the bus to work. It was a slow aperture setting to get the blurred effect.�

◗ Travel: Ann Rivo of San Rafael said of her winning photo, taken in Vietnam:“There seems to be a rather magical kind of dance the women do as they work in the fields. I’m sure it does not feel that way for them. But as the viewer, it is a visual delight to behold.�

!RE YOU PREPARED FOR ANY TYPE OF DISASTER s ! 0ARTNER IN 9OUR 3AFETY 0LAN s ! 2ESOURCE FOR 9OUR %MERGENCY %ARTHQUAKE AND #USTOMIZED &IRST !ID +ITS s 7E !RE A -OBILE 3ERVICE ˆ7E #OME TO 9OU

SU M M E R B AT T E RY S AV I N G S ! From car batteries to watch batteries, we have the battery you need.

ONLY

Watch

99 Battery

5

$

& Install

Some makes, models, or styles may be excluded. Limit 2. Expires 9.30.11 NP010

" TH 3TREET 3UITE s .OVATO

#ONTACT 5S FOR &REE 0RICE 1UOTE s WWW 'LOBAL-EDICALN3AFETY COM

SAN RAFAEL 2064 4th St. (100 yards before McDonalds)

415.455.9221 BatteriesPlus.com Mon - Fri 9-8, Sat 9-6, Sun 11-5 whistlestop.org 7

Keep Learning at WHISTLESTOP COMPUTER/PICTURE CLASS Beginning: 2nd Friday • 2 to 4pm Advanced: 3rd Friday • 2 to 4pm Computer Room | Fee: $15 Instructor: Gene Dyer Registration required: 459-6700 Call for more information and class descriptions. COMPUTER LAB DROP-IN CLASS Mondays • 10 to Noon & Wednesdays • 10 to 2pm Need help using a computer? We have volunteer computer tutors available to work with you one-onone, if needed.

FACEBOOK COMPUTER CLASS Tuesday, October 4 & 11 • 10 to Noon Fee: $30/2-week course, due at time of registration Instructor: Karl Hoppe | Registration required: 459-6700 Prerequisite: familiarity with PCs. Interested in learning about one of the most popular social networking sites? Learn how to set up an account, how to upload a profile picture, add photo albums, write on a wall, send messages to people, become a member of a group and more! It’s a great way to stay in touch with family and friends. this culprit – time really is running out.

COMMISSION ON AGING Thursday, October 13 • 9:30-11:45 am Where: Dance Palace; 503B St., Pt. Reyes Station Presenters: Roger Kovacks, Bolinas White Caps; Chloe Cook, West Marin Senior Services; Cynthia Hammond, Afternoon at the Beach Topic: Community-driven solutions to age in place in rural Marin Next Meeting: November 10 • 10 am at Tiburon Town Hall

Transportation Numbers Scheduling Rides: 454-0964 Cancelling Rides: 457-4630 Eligibility: 456-9062 x160 or eligibility@whistlestop.org Volunteer Driver Program: 454-0969 8

Whistlestop Express OCTOBER 2011

ON SITE NOTARY SERVICES 2nd Tuesday, 12:30 to 2pm Rob Rudy, Certified Notary Call to confirm date & time: 456-9062 Fee: $2 per signature and all proceeds will be donated to Whistlestop. Rob has volunteered to offer notarial services to clients, visitors and employees of Whistlestop. Feel free to drop by and say hello. Drop-in only. LAUGHTER CLUB 2th & 4th Wednesdays • 10 to 10:30am Jackson Café | 456-9062 Instructor: Susan Wilkins, certified Laughter Club Leader Donations appreciated Exercise your funny bone! Express your emotions! Reawaken your inner child! Some benefits of Laughter Club include: safe cardiac workout, detoxify the lungs with deep breathing, lower blood pressure with laughter and stimulate the brain and release endorphins. All fitness levels welcome. Dress comfy and wear socks. GENTLE CHIROPRACTIC SERVICES Thursdays • 10 to 11:30am Fee: $5 | 456-9062 | First-come, first-served basis Chiropractor: Dr. Laura Agnew, Redwood Health Chiropractic Do you suffer from back or neck pain, tension headaches or aching muscles & joints? For relief from aches and pains of everyday stress and strains, visit Whistlestop to see chiropractic professionals who provide safe, gentle and chiropractic care. BLOOD PRESSURE CLINIC GLUCOSE & MEDICINE CHECK CLINIC Tuesday, October 4 • 1 to 2pm Facilitators: student nurses from Dominican University Drop-in, Donations appreciated Bring all of your medications and supplements to find out how & when to take them, how to store them, side effects, or possible interactions with other drugs. Don’t miss this opportunity to prevent health problems by keeping your blood pressure and meds in check! READING & BOOK SIGNING: THUNDER DOG New York Times Best Seller List Monday, October 10 • 2:30pm Donations appreciated | Reserve your seat: 456-9062 Speaker: Michael Hingson, author Everyone has their own memories and experiences that

define 9-11, 2011 for us. What lessons can we still take away from that tragic and defining day? Can positive ideals and principles come out of the ashes? Michael explores these questions as he shares his story of survival and growth, and how he escaped and went on living because of his own strong and fearless sense of survival, as well as his hero and friend, his guide dog Roselle. Michael will take you step-by-step through his own experience of the attack firsthand. Thunder Dog will be available for purchase.

OKTOBERFEST LUNCHEON Thursday, October 20 • 11:30 to 2pm Jackson Café | Cost: $6 for 60+, $9 under 60 No reservations needed, first come-first served. Please join us for a delicious meal and live entertainment provided by Bread & Roses! Menu: beef sauerbraten, braised red cabbage with apples, spaetzle, & apple strudel MAXIMIZE YOUR MEMORY/MAINTAIN YOUR BRAIN Friday, October 21, 11 to 12:30pm Caboose 1 | Donations appreciated Presenter: Shelley Dombroski, Alzheimer’s Association Registration required: 456-9062 This informative and interactive program will teach you the difference between normal memory loss and dementia. Learn tips and strategies for improving memory, and suggestions to maintain a brain-healthy lifestyle. AARP DRIVER SAFETY PROGRAM Saturday, October 22 & 29 • 9 to 1pm Jackson Café | Pre-registration and prepayment required: 459-6700 | Fee: $12/AARP members/$14 non-members. Cash or checks payable to AARP accepted. Sharpen your driving skills through the AARP Driver Safety program. This course was developed to help drivers 50 years or older adjust to age-related changes in vision, hearing and reaction time. Medication and its effects on driving will also be addressed. At the end of this course, a certificate of completion, which may save you money on auto insurance, will be given. You must attend both sessions in order to get credit for completing the course. MEDICARE’S ANNUAL ENROLLMENT PERIOD Thursday, October 27 • 10:30 to Noon Board Room | Donations appreciated Facilitator: Julie Bennett, HICAP | Register: 456-9062 Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period is October 15 to December 7. Your effective date for any changes to your Medicare Part C and/or Part D will be January 1, 2012. Join HICAP for an informative presentation. You will get up-to-date information on what’s new with Medicare and help to narrow down your options.

HALLOWEEN TEA DANCE Friday October 28 • 5 to 7pm Fee: $3 | RSVP: 456-9062 Get into the Halloween spirit and come dressed in costume. Join us for refreshments and dancing. Costume contest with a winning prize of a $25 gift card. COMING SOON IN NOVEMBER! • Thanksgiving Luncheon • Blood Pressure, Medicine Check and Flu Shots • Cedars Art Show • Art Class – Beading Bracelets • Gladdy Gold Book Club IN-KIND DONATIONS NEEDED Mah Jongg sets, decks of cards, books and yarn If you have items to donate: 456-9062 VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES Contact: Debbie at 456-9062 or programs@whistlestop.org • Jackson Café servers • Front Desk/Center Host(ess) • Board or Card Game Leader • Tax Return Preparers - Requires use of a computerbased software, training is provided. If you have a desire to help others, please volunteer. Commitment is from January to April.

of marin

SPECIALISTS IN GERIATRIC IN-HOME THERAPY AND WELLNESS

s 3PECIALIZED TREATMENT FOR A VARIETY OF PROBLEMS s "ALANCE AND &ALL 0REVENTION 0ROGRAMS s 6ISITS ARE UP TO MINUTES OF PERSONALIZED THERAPY s 3ENIORS ARE ELIGIBLE TO RECEIVE OUTPATIENT THERAPY IN THEIR HOMES UNDER -EDICARE 0ART "

800-931-5769

Jennifer Holland, PT Licensed Physical Therapist CA Lic #10957

Independence Through Mobility Your One-Call / One-Click Transportation Resource:

(415) 454-0902

www.MarinAccess.org whistlestop.org 9

CLASS

MISC.

COST

9:30–10:30 AM

454-0998

Free

10:00–11:00 AM 11:00–12:30 PM 11:15–NOON 2:00–4:00 PM 4:00–5:30 PM

Reading Club for Spanish Speakers AM Monday (Discussion) German Social Group Movement & Music ESL Citizenship Class

457-0586 Open Open 457-8811 454-0998

Free Free Free Free Free

9:15–10:15 AM 10:00–2:00 PM 10:45–11:45 AM 11:00–2:00 PM 1:00–3:00 PM 2:00–3:00 PM 2:00–3:30 PM 2:00–4:00 PM 2:30–3:30 PM

Whistlesizers (Exercise) Asian Social Group Cardio Exercise Class Manicurist Learn Spanish ESL Vietnamese English Conversation Remembrance Writing Balance Class

Open 454-1552 Open Appt. Needed Open 454-1552 454-0998 Open Open

$2 Free Free Free Free Free Free $5 $10

WEDNESDAYS

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

Tai Chi Qigong Chair Massage Seniors' Circle (Support) Mah Jongg Computer Lab Corazón Latino ESL Basic English for Spanish Speakers

Sugg. Donation Open Open Open Open Open 457-8811 457-0586

Free Free Free Free Free Free

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

Whistlesizers (Exercise) Chiropractic Services Knit!!! Asian Social Group Watercolors with Hilda English Conversation Remembrance Writing Basic English for Spanish Speakers

Open Open 454-099 454-1552 Open 454-0998 Open 457-0586

$2 $5 Free Free Free Free $5 Free

Chair Massage WS Knitters ACASA (Support/Training) Practice Spanish (Club) Friday Movie Arts & Crafts w/Vicky Yoga with Kelly

Open 1st Fri. Arts & Crafts Peer Counseling Open 1st, 3rd & 5th Fri. 457-0586 456-9062

$4/8min. Free Free Free $2 $2-$3 $3

FRIDAYS

TUESDAYS

MONDAYS

TIME

THURSDAYS

Whistlestop ACTIVITIES This Month at Whistlestop

9:00–2:00 PM 11:00–1:00 PM 1:30–3:30 PM 1:30–3:30 PM 2:00–4:00 PM 2:00–4:00 PM 3:00–4:00 PM

Jackson Café

Monday-Friday 11:30am-2:00pm $10 Located in Whistlestop $4/8min. Active Aging Center

LUNCH MENU 60+ PRICES/ UNDER 60 PRICES

Main Entrée $4.00/$6.75 Sandwiches $3.75/$5.00 Soup du Jour $1.75/$2.25 Hamburger w/Fries $4.25/$5.25 Salads $2.50/$4.00 OTHER ITEMS Tuna Salad Side Fresh Fruit Beverages Desserts

$1.25 $1.50 $1.00 $1.50

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 OCTOBER 2011

The Bird's Side b y R I C H A R D PAV E K PHOTOS © RICHARD PAVEK

OF MARIN

Tidy Disposal System

N

ow that the TV ads are promoting the virtues of toilet paper’s ability to make you feel ‘really clean’, I guess it’s acceptable for me to write about Poo Bags. Poo Bags are the Tree Swallows’ approach to waste disposal and clean nests. When the baby Tree Swallows – who eat furiously all day – do their little business, they do it right into tiny Poo Bags. (The ornithologists call them “Fecal Sacs” which, being French, is much more gentile.) Just how the fecal sacs form at the exit of the alimentary canal, I have been unable to determine. But I do know that the waste material goes right into these little sacs, which the parents periodically pick off with their beaks and carry a good distance away from the nest box, where they dump them. This sac business is certainly a good thing for

the nests. If there weren’t a good disposal system, the small tree cavities or nest boxes the Tree Swallows use for raising their chicks would soon fill up with excrement. Well, there is not much more I can say about fecal sacs and remain gentile, except for this one thought. Wouldn’t it be nice if our grandbabies presented us with pre-packed Poo Bags that we could just carry out to the garbage? No smell, no wiping. That’s something the gene-splicers and bio-molecular tinkerers could take up that we could all get behind. (No pun intended.) Except the folks who make disposable diapers of course. Every weekend I email an unusual bird photo to Express readers. If you’d like something nice to look at in your Inbox, email me at SHENmaker@MSN.com. ✦ Till next time, Richard whistlestop.org 11

Whistlestop PROFILES

Cece Cadieux, 92 Lives at Bennett House in Fairfax

H

er secret of a long and healthy life: “I stay very active. Gardening and walking, I do not have a car. I have a very healthy diet – lots of vegetables and fruits. I never got fat.” Cece spends almost every day in the extensive garden at the Bennett House. She takes care of about 10 rose bushes as well as a vegetable garden, including arugala. Some of the same people show up with her every day, giving her a supportive community. Cece grew up in Southern California where her fourth grade teacher identified her as an exceptional singer. She has sung all of her life, mostly classical music, some professionally. She sang on the radio in Hollywood and in some light and regular operas as a mezzosoprano. “I never paid once for lessons – it all came through scholarships.”

She taught singing lessons, mostly private, for many years, and loved doing that. “One of my students, when she was a junior or senior in college, won a prize that took her to Paris. I was very proud of her.” She and her late husband, Frank, regularly played doubles tennis, including competing in many tournaments, and she continued playing until recently. ✦

Paula Ross, 91 Lives in Fairfax

H

er secret of a long and healthy life: “I believe in moderation; I don’t overdo things. Also, I volunteer – a good way to stay active.” She has a dog, cat and fish, which contribute to her upbeat spirit. Paula facilitates the German Group at Whistlestop, Mondays, 11 to 12:30pm. group Most of the students are German-born and have little chance to converse in their first language. Paula is a Holocaust survivor, born in Vienna, Austria. She came to the U.S. in 1939, working hard to learn English. She enlisted in the U.S. Women’s Army Corps (WACs). She was recruited to translate for German Prisoners of War in a camp in New Jersey. Paula’s work was kept secret and she had to agree she would not receive any promotions. “I was an eternal PFC,” she said, laughing. “But I was grateful to be alive and I was and still am very patriotic.” She used the GI Bill to further her education in Los Angeles and became a chiropractor. She practiced for many years and also was a midwife, delivering babies in LA. She was married and has two children. She also volunteers at Wild Care as a wildlife rehabilitator. ✦

Can You Afford Retirement? A Reverse Mortgage Could Be the Answer Competitive FHA-insured and new low-fee reverse mortgages. Call for your FREE DVD info packet today! Homeowners 62+, call for a face-to-face consultation or to find out how much you qualify for: Mary-Alice Cardenas Reverse Mortgage Professional

Call 1-866-411-3818 NMLS #46846

MORTGAGE COMPANY A New Generation in Reverse Mortgages

NMLS #1319; Licensed by the Department of Corporations under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act. © 2011 Generation Mortgage Company. All rights reserved.

12

Whistlestop Express OCTOBER 2011

‘Country Lawyer’ is Still Doing His Job at 95 B Y VA L B O W M A N

C

arl Shapiro loves going to work every day because he doesn’t know who might walk in the door needing his help. He has had a law office in downtown San Anselmo since 1967. Carl is the oldest practicing attorney in California and he still goes to the office Monday through Friday. He has represented the poor and marginalized because he says he would rather have plaques on the wall than be on the golf course. His wife of 65 years, Helen, went to law school at the age of 57 and at the age of 94, she was the oldest practicing female lawyer in California. They called themselves country lawyers and both did lots of pro bono work. Carl, known for his strong liberal views says, “She and I had things we wanted 'Helping people: to say and this was one of the ways to say it.” that's what we're Helen died in 2005. supposed to do.' Asked about his secrets of a long, happy life, he replies, “Just plain luck first of all. I survived cancer and accidents but here I am. And secondly, I agree with the folks at Harvard who say you need to face challenges, intellectual and other, to keep going. He also credits his family and friends. Carl still lives in his Fairfax home with his daughter, Sylvia, and his grandson. “I do the cooking, Sylvia preps and my grandson does the dishes.” He also is grateful to his neighbor, Yvonne Roberts, who is the development director at Whistlestop. “She helps me with the gardening and gives me things I need without my asking and has helped make it possible for me stay in my home.” Carl is proud of the work he has done with death row inmates. “I represented more people on death row than anyone else as far as I know. In the first 12 to 13 years of practice, I appeared before the California State Supreme Court more than most lawyers do in a lifetime. My proudest achievement was getting reversals in two death penalty cases in the same day.” Growing up in Cleveland, the son of an at-

torney, Carl went to Harvard 75 years ago. After graduation, he started law school at Berkeley, but it didn’t feel right, so he worked as a cook and in the Richmond shipyards. After a stint in the Army, he went back to law school on the GI Bill, graduating from University of San Francisco night school. He started a practice but he worked in the mornings as a carpenter, going home to change clothes before heading for his law office. He says that practicing law is “a hard and grubby life, but it is worth the struggle to help people. That’s what we’re supposed to do. Not just make money.” ✦

STOCKSTILL HOUSE Assisted living in our beautiful, spacious home in Pt. Reyes Station with 24 hour care for up to 8 seniors. Now accepting resident applications. 415-663-8148

www.wmss.org

• We deliver full-service, non-medical caregiving • Our caregivers are our employees—each is insured and bonded, and has gone through rigorous screening, orientation and training • We handle all employer responsibilities— wages, taxes, Workers’ Comp • Family-owned and operated since 1994

415-884-4343 • www.HiredHandsHomecare.com Call today for a complimentary Needs Assessment and Home Safety Evaluation

whistlestop.org 13

Helping You Maintain Your Independence

Roger Pease, 90 Lives in Mill Valley As everyday life becomes more challenging, a little help can go a long way. A sample of our services:

x x x x x

Grocery Shopping Prepare Meals Light Housekeeping Drive to Appointment Run Errands

x x x x x

Alzheimer’s Care Med Reminders Bathing/Dressing Laundry And Much More!

Call Today and Get $25 off!

415-451-0100

<RX¡UH 1HYHU $ORQH ZLWK /LIHOLQHŠ

/LIHOLQH ZLWK $XWR$OHUWŠ DOORZV \RX WR OLYH LQGHSHQGHQWO\ E\ DXWRPDWLFDOO\ SODFLQJ D FDOO IRU KHOS LI D IDOO LV GHWHFWHG

5HPDUNDEO\ DIIRUGDEOH ZLWK QR ORQJ WHUP FRQWUDFWV )RU PRUH LQIRUPDWLRQ RQ WKH OHDGLQJ SHUVRQDO PHGLFDO UHVSRQVH VHUYLFH IRU PRUH WKDQ \HDUV FDOO

‡

14

Whistlestop Express OCTOBER 2011

H

is secret of a long and healthy life: Maintain a good diet; walk every day (don’t amble); friends are important; find activities to keep you involved; and don’t forget to keep a smile on your face. In the early 40s, Roger joined the Army Signal Corps Motion Picture School at MGM Studios in Culver City. Soon after, he was in a small, detached unit based in Calcutta, India. He had many experiences with the OSS, America’s first intelligence agency, which organized a 10,000man underground Thai army that was never discovered by the Japanese. The films he made were used for army records and newsreels. Roger walks or does something physical every day. He sings in a choir and is active in Sons In Retirement (SIRS). He’s served twice as president of Branch 47 and was honored with a Lifetime Membership Award last year. He volunteers at the Tiburon Thrift Shop and as an usher at the Marin Civic Center theaters. He photographed two children’s camps for slide shows this summer. He has been widowed twice after two happy marriages totaling 63 years. His recent wife, Eddi Erwin Pease, was an influential member of the Driftwood Ladies group, who host an annual fundraising event to support Whistlestop. He loves his two families: his son, Scott, an architectural photographer, Scott’s wife, two granddaughters and two great-grandchildren, and Eddi’s four children, who have warmly accepted him. Roger’s advice about happy later years? “Some things we have control over and some things we just have to accept and do the best we can. I am fortunate to have good genes. But after that, it is up to you. Attitude is everything.â€? âœŚ

Grand MOM

Word SEARCH

Answers on page 5.

by AUDREY METTEL FIXMER

Inspiration from my Elders

R

emember how you always looked up to the “olderâ€? ones? When you were four they were the six-year-olds; they went to school. But when you got to school yourself, it was the eighth graders and to them it was the high school kids, who looked up to the college kids. Despite loving the 20 years I spent as a full-time homemaker, I looked forward to a career and then retirement. And now there’s Gordy Simonson. Gordy was in his 90s when he first inspired me. I marveled at his energy when I’d see him planting and tending to the flowers around our church. He wintered in Florida for 36 years so he could golf year round, and he rode his bike daily. When he had been widowed for a year, he met the vivacious Doris on the golf course. Within a year they were married; long courtships don’t work when you’re 84. Some say that Doris has kept Gordy alive. They eat healthy and their daily routine includes a brisk early morning walk with other seniors in the halls of our local hospital, a bike ride and a nightly soak in the hot tub. Others, however, credit Gordy’s upbeat, positive attitude toward life. “I’ve never heard Grandpa say a mean word about anybody or be afraid of anything,â€? says his grandson Brad. “He was in his 90s when he first saw a jet ski and insisted on going for a ride. And once when I went over there I found him standing in the river in his waders, repairing their river wall. I said, ‘Grandpa, you can’t do that! Someone might come along with a motor boat and the waves will knock you over.’ He answered, ‘Well, I’m doing it, aren’t I?’â€? Gordy and Doris celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary and are looking forward to his 105th birthday in November. Perhaps we will ring the church bells that he donated to the “old churchâ€? 55 years ago, then paid to have moved to the new church. Gordy no longer appears on the golf course, but he still makes it to Sunday Mass. I want to be like Gordy when I grow old. Gordy is my hero. âœŚ

Visiting AngelsÂŽ Can Help Share the Care

Assessments are Performed by a QualiďŹ ed R.N. s s s s s s s

5P TO (OUR #ARE 0ERSONAL #ARE ,IGHT (OUSEKEEPING -EAL 0REPARATION %RRANDS 3HOPPING *OYFUL #OMPANIONSHIP $AY OR .IGHT ,IVE IN OR ,IVE OUT #ARE

#ALL TODAY FOR A COMPLIMENTARY NO OBLIGATION VISIT FROM ONE OF OUR PROFESSIONAL STAFF

s 4EMPORARY OR ,ONG 4ERM #ARE s 7EEKENDS (OLIDAYS s 2ESPITE FOR &AMILY #AREGIVERS s &LEXIBLE 3CHEDULES We Can Be There to Assist You!

415-499-1200 JMHOMECARE COM

whistlestop.org 15

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

LIKE US on Facebook

Talk On The Block‌

“I

came to Drake Terrace after a stroke and could have subsided into sleepy, querulous aging, but did not. Liza Fronczak {Drake Terrace Wellness Director} helped make a dierence! Stan Winston – Drake Terrace Resident

“This openness to new ideas has indeed made a difference to my life.�

415-491-1935 | www.kiscoseniorliving.com 275 Los Ranchitos Rd., San Rafael, CA 94903 Lic. # 216801028 VISIT US ONLINE Whistlestop Express OCTOBER 2011

Blue Door Conference Center

Presented by

BLUE DOOR SEMINARS

To Discover What All the Talk is About Call Drake Terrace Today or Visit Us Online.

16

2011

To subscribe to Whistlestop Express, please send $10 in the enclosed envelope. Or send an email with your request, your name and address to info@whistlestop.org

/CTOBER s PM %STATE 0LANNING 0ARTS ! " Speaker: J.R. Hastings, JD Location: Redwood High School /CTOBER s PM !SSET 0ROTECTION FOR 0HYSICIANS Speaker: J.R. Hastings, JD Light Dinner Provided /CTOBER s AM !SSET 0ROTECTION FOR 0HYSICIANS Speaker: J.R. Hastings, JD Light Lunch Provided /CTOBER s AM 5NDERSTANDING 0RIVATE 2EAL %STATE )NVESTMENT 4RUSTS Speaker: Kathleen Nemetz, MBA, Financial Advisor /CTOBER s PM 0LANNING FOR #ATS $OGS Speakers: J.R. Hastings, JD, Eliot Katz, President, In Defense of Animals

/CTOBER s PM RD !NNUAL 3YMPOSIUM FOR %STATE 0LANNING !DVISORS Sponsor: Mechanic’s Bank Luncheon Host: John Ringgenberg & Kathleen Nemetz of Ameriprise Financial, Inc. Producer: J.R. Hastings, JD Location: Four Points Sheraton .OVEMBER s AM 4RANSITIONING TO 9OUR 3ENIOR ,IVING (OME Speaker: David Knepler, Drake Terrace .OVEMBER s AM &UNDING FOR 4AX &REE 2ETIREMENT )NCOME Speaker: Mike Schlegel, CLU, ChFC, AEP .OVEMBER s PM 0ERSONAL 4AX 0LANNING Speaker: J. Ryan Hastings, LLM, CPA

RSVP to: jrseminar@att.net | Space is Limited – Register Today! 4HIRD 3TREET 3AN 2AFAEL s s WWW JRHASTINGSLAW COM

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.