Bringing Joy to the World, One Laugh at a Time by JOHN BOWMAN E PRESS The Leading Information Resource for Marin's Active Aging Movement SEPTEMBER 2011 Whistlestop.org Whistlestop Whistlestop Fashion Show Coming page 5 'Fish Flights' Over Marin page 11 Romance and White Truffles page 12 C omedian Michael Prit- chard was appearing at an event in San Francisco when a man in the audience was pointed out as a centurion. Pritchard yelled out, “Tommy, what’s the best thing about being 100?” The man shot back, “The abso- lute lack of peer pressure.” It was a typical experience for Pritchard, who says, “I just set the table.” Pritchard, 62, of San Rafael, is also a wellness coach and youth guidance motivator who has been bringing humor to the world all his life. He has made 11 PBS specials to edu- cate kids on such issues as bullying, anti-violence and the power of choice. He has done count- less voices for fea- ture films, includ- ing the Ewoks in Star Wars, and is featured in Happy , a documentary, which premiered recently at the Roxie in San Francisco. Pritchard recently received a federal grant to work with hospice and cancer patients, who also benefit from his humor and love of life. He says everyone has the ability to make people laugh. And by activating the endorphins, people can even heal themselves. “Laugh- ter revitalizes the human spirit. You don’t stop laughing be- cause you’re getting old. You get old because you stop laughing.” Pritchard recalls entertain- ing at a nursing home with a woman who was singing an old ballad and many people in the audi- ence were leaning forward, smiling and nodding. “But this one guy in the front row – 95 years old – was just sitting there, slouched down, ex- pressionless,” Pritchard said. “Toward the end of the song, the man sat up and belted out, in perfect pitch and tone, ‘Our love is here to stay!’ And then he fell asleep.” Pritchard has met many celebrities and recently at- tended Robin Williams’ 60 th birthday party. Someone once asked Williams, “Who is Michael Pritchard?” and Williams replied, “If Mother Theresa had a child with Jesse Ventura. That’s Mi- chael Pritchard.” ✦ 'You don’t stop laughing because you’re getting old. You get old because you stop laughing.' recently received nt to work with ancer patients, efi e t from his ve of life. He e has the ability ple laugh g . And d by by b b e endorph hin n n ns, s ven he eal al Laugh h- s the . p
Transcript
Bringing Joy to the World, One Laugh at a Timeb y J O H N B O W M A N
E PRESSThe Leading Information Resource for Marin's Active Aging MovementSEPTEMBER 2011 Whistlestop.org
Whistlestop
WhistlestopFashion ShowComingpage 5
'Fish Flights' Over Marin page 11
Romanceand WhiteTruffl espage 12
Comedian Michael Prit-chard was appearing at an event in San
Francisco when a man in the audience was pointed out as a centurion. Pritchard yelled out, “Tommy, what’s the best thing about being 100?” The man shot back, “The abso-lute lack of peer pressure.” It was a typical experience for Pritchard, who says, “I just set the table.” Pritchard, 62, of San Rafael, is also a wellness coach and youth guidance motivator who has been bringing humor to the world all his life. He has made 11 PBS specials to edu-cate kids on such issues as bul ly ing, anti-violence and the power of choice. He has done count-less voices for fea-ture fi lms, includ-ing the Ewoks in Star Wars, and is featured in Happy, a documentary, which premiered recently at the R o x i e i n S a n Francisco.
Pritchard recently received a federal grant to work with hospice and cancer patients, who also benefi t from his humor and love of life. He says everyone has the ability to make people laugh. And by activating the endorphins, people can even heal themselves. “Laugh-ter revitalizes the human spirit. You don’t stop laughing be-cause you’re getting old. You get old because you stop laughing.” Pritchard recalls entertain-ing at a nursing home with a
woman who was singing an old ballad and many people in the audi-ence were leaning forward, smiling and nodding. “But this one guy in the front row – 95 years old – was just sitting there, slouched down, ex-
pressionless,” Pritchard said. “Toward the end of the song, the man sat up and belted out, in perfect pitch and tone, ‘Our love is here to stay!’ And then he fell asleep.” Pritchard has met many celebrities and recently at-tended Robin Williams’ 60th birthday party. Someone once asked Williams, “Who is Michael Pritchard?” and Williams replied, “If Mother Theresa had a child with Jesse Ventura. That’s Mi-chael Pritchard.” ✦
'You don’t stop laughing because you’re getting old. You get old because you stop laughing.'
recently received nt to work with ancer patients,efie t from hisve of life. He e has the ability ple laughg . And d bybybbe endorphhinnnns,s
ven heealalLaughh-s the.p
Whistlestop Express SEPTEMBER 20112
WhistlestopPERSPECTIVE by JOE O'HEHIR
Table ofCONTENTS
Readers Write InElizabeth Caffery
From Rocky's PantryRocky Packard
Fashion Show
At Whistlestop
Whistlestop Activities Calendar
The Bird's Side of MarinRichard PavekNuggets ColumnJeff StofferGrand Mom ColumnAudrey Fixmer
Brain TeasersGary Gruber, PhD
3
4
58/91011
12
14
15
Marin Senior Coordinating Council, Inc.930 Tamalpais Avenue San Rafael, CA 94901Chief Executive Offi cer, Joe O’HehirBoard of DirectorsPresident, Dennis ThompsonVice President, Terry ScusselTreasurer, Michael RiceSecretary, Michael HingsonKaren Arnold • Eleanor Delaney • Claudia FrommJane Lott • Debbie Mills • Bill SaulBob Sonnenberg • Jeff StofferWhistlestop Express is a publication of the MarinSenior Coordinating Council, Inc. A 501 (c) 3not-for-profi t organizationThe 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 InformationMain Number 415-456-9062Whistlestop Fax 415-456-2858www.whistlestop.orgInformation & Referral Offi ce415-459-6700 • [email protected] Express Editorial, Art Direction & SalesJohn & Val Bowman Editors916-751-9189 • [email protected] Reynolds Art Directormreynolds@pacifi csun.comAdvertisingLinda Black • 415-485-6700, Ext. 306
Whistlestop Express is printed on recycled paper
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The theme for this month’s edition of the Whistlestop Express is
the power of laughter, some-thing that I try to subscribe to each and every day. Laughter is an outward expression of joy, delight, and cheerfulness. Studies suggest that people who laugh on a regular basis are healthier. There are many ways I get my daily doses of laughter. I typically start the day with an early morning swim at my health club. I drag myself to the pool, but become ener-gized once I encounter one of my swimming buddies, Terry. We fi nd humor when talking about our Irish ancestry. Walking my dog, Caleb, up in the hills of China Camp can be a humorous adventure, especially when I watch him chase birds (he thinks he is one) and when he tries to climb up a tree after squir-rels. When I arrive at the Whistlestop Active Aging Center, I look forward to be-ing greeted by our front of-fi ce staff, Vicky and Cindy. These two vibrant individuals always have a smile on their faces and a positive attitude for the joy in life. Eating lunch in the Jackson Cafe has become a happy experi-ence, especially since our new partnership with Homeward Bound. Our new chef, Rocky Packard, is not only a great
cook, but he enjoys a hearty laugh when visiting with our clients and guests. Working at a nonprofi t like Whistlestop can be both challenging and stressful, especially given the growing demand for our services and the need for raising money to help fund this important mis-sion. Our staff does a marvel-ous job dealing with the daily stress and strains of our work. We typically try to use humor to relieve the pressure. One of my colleagues, Jackie, has an infectious sense of humor and a wonderful laugh that can help us get through the tough times. And, when it comes to family, my younger brother James is our resident come-dian who can take the tough-est situation and provide a humorous touch that helps us cope with the challenges that life can throw at us. There is a healing power in laughter. Laughter can break the bonds of loneliness, so-cial isolation, depression and despair. Just hearing other people laugh affects us in a positive way both mentally and physically. Laughter keeps us younger, revitalized, and fresh. Please visit the Whistlestop Active Aging Center in San Ra-fael. We promise to try to put a smile on your face and a laugh in your belly. ✦
Joe O’Hehir is Whistlestop’s CEO.
Laughter Helps Keep us Younger
whistlestop.org 3
ReadersWRITE INSustainability and UNESCO
I was recently at Point Reyes because of my in-terest in the Golden Gate Biosphere Reserve, of which the National Seashore is one of 13
units. I very much appreciate your issue featur-ing a front-page article on sustainability. Sustainability is a requirement of biosphere reserves. Of the 47 reserves in this country, perhaps only two (Champlain-Adirondack and the Everglades) are in compliance. The program is unpopular because it is a project of UNESCO. Some Americans feel (fear) that means loss of sovereignty. —Thank you, Elizabeth Caffrey
Explore Whistlestop Offerings:National Senior Center Month
September is National Senior Center Month, a perfect time to visit Whistlestop’s Active Aging Center to fi nd out what activities and
events might suit you. The month-long celebration is sponsored by the National Institute of Senior Centers and the National Council on Aging. Also, September 25-October 1 is Active Aging Week, sponsored by the International Council on Active Aging, and September 23 is Fall Prevention Awareness Day. Come on in to Whistlestop, 930 Tamalpais Ave., San Rafael, and sign up for one of our class-es. Bring a friend and have lunch at the Jackson Café, featuring a fresh, affordable and delicious menu. A list of classes and events can be found on pages 8-10 of this issue of the Whistlestop Ex-press. Also, try our new Laughter Club starting Sep-tember 14 — humor is healing! ✦
Correction The August issue incorrectly reported that Dr. Charles Lithgow is a retired neurosurgeon rather than a general surgeon. The same article incorrectly stated that his wife, Beverly, has been a longtime supporter of the LightHouse for the Blind. Whistlestop Express regrets the errors.
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Whistlestop Express SEPTEMBER 20114
From Rocky's PANTRYB Y R O C K Y P A C K A R D
Jackson Café HerbedCream Cheese Schmear(Why don’t they let Bagels play golf?Because they all got a “hole in one”!)
1/4 bunch fresh chopped dill 1/4 bunch fresh chopped thyme 1/4 bunch fresh chopped parsley 2 each chopped scallions 1/4 bunch fresh chopped basil salt and pepper to taste 1 tub softened cream cheese
Combine all of the ingredients in a mixing
bowl and blend well with a rubber spatula. Remember to soften the cream cheese ahead of time.This is a nice alter-native to just plain old cream cheese for your morning bagel and a great addition with smoked salmon.
Much of San Rafael comedian Michael Pritchard’s work is with children, using humor to educate them about
the pain bullying can cause and other timely issues. Pritchard said he is constantly in awe of the humor and wisdom children bring to these events. He shared the following two stories to illus-trate his point. A little girl, who obviously was not enjoying Pritchard’s presentation, got up and stormed out of the room. A little boy in the front row said, “That girl is an emotional porcupine.” Then, there was the boy at an event in a Chicago suburb who said they had put him in a Special Ed class, but “I notice things that other people don’t see.” “Like what?” Michael asked. “Like the word silent has the same letters as the word listen,” the boy said. “And, secure and rescue.” “How do you do that?” Michael asked. “I’m dyslexic and I spell bad. So I notice stuff,” the boy replied. After his presentation, Pritchard was in the parking lot, heading for his car. “It’s re-ally cold and snowing,” Pritchard said. “And the same kid comes up and says, ‘I have one more.’” Pritchard says, “Okay, let’s have it. Fast, because it’s freezing out here.” “Earth and heart,” the boy says. Then he smiles and walks away. ✦
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Come to Whistlestop’s Cultural Fashion Show September 15
Whistlestop will present a Cultural Fashion Show on Thursday, Septem-ber 15, at its Active Aging Center,
930 Tamalpais Ave., in downtown San Rafael. The show will be from 4 to 5:30 pm and will be staged in Whistlestop’s Jackson Café. This will be the center’s fi rst Cultural Fash-ion Show. Come and enjoy traditional cos-tumes from around the world, represented by Whistlestop's clients. Music and refresh-ments will be offered after the show. Admission will be just $5 and reservations are required. For more information about the Whistlestop Fashion Show, call 415-456-9062. ✦
Ca Nguyen (left) dressed in her traditional Vietnamese gown walks with Cathy Ly, Whistlestop Multicultural Outreach Coordinator (right).
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Whistlestop Express SEPTEMBER 20116
The Healing Power of Laughter
Laughter's healing benefi ts and healing with laughter have become synonymous with Norman Cousins, the man who laughed
himself to wellness. Norman Cousins was the editor of Saturday Review for over 30 years, and was the author of a number of books including Anatomy of an Illness. In 1964, after he was diagnosed with Anklyos-ing Spondylitis, a collagen illness that attacks the connective tissues of the body, he began to
read about the theory that negative emotions are harmful to the body. He thought that if negative emotions were detrimental to health, then posi-tive emotions should improve health. He checked himself out of the hospital and into a Manhattan hotel suite. He hired a nurse who read humorous stories and played Marx Brothers movies for him. He also took massive doses of vitamin C. The treatment proved to be so effective that in very little time, Cousins was off all painkillers and sleeping pills. He found that the laughter relieved the pain and would help him sleep. He returned to work and wrote about his experimental treatment in his book Anatomy of an Illness. In 1989, it was fi nally acknowledged in the Journal of the American Medical Associa-tion that laughter therapy could help improve the quality of life for patients with chronic illness and that laughter has an immediate symptom-reliev-ing effect. According to Wikipedia, laughing is a reac-tion to certain stimuli, fundamentally stress, which serves as an emotional balancing mech-anism. Traditionally, it’s considered a visual expression of happiness, or an inward feeling of joy. It may ensue from hearing a joke, being tickled, or other stimuli. It is in most cases a very pleasant sensation. Recent investigations by Robert Provine suggest that laughter is a form of communi-cation, probably the fi rst one in the human race, which later evolved, with the liberation of voice from walking and breathing, into hu-man language. Laughter is found among various animals, as well as in humans, although it is rare in most mammals and animals. Among the hu-man species, it is a part of human behavior regulated by the brain, helping humans clarify their intentions in social interaction and pro-viding an emotional context to conversations. Laughter is used as a signal for being part of a group — it signals acceptance and positive interactions with others. Laughter is some-times seen as contagious, and the laughter of one person can itself provoke laughter from others. Laughter is anatomically caused by the epiglottis constricting the larynx. The study of humor and laughter, and its psychological and physiological effects on the human body, is called gelotology (From Wikipedia) ✦
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whistlestop.org 7
Exercise Your Funny BoneAt Whistlestop’s Laughter Club
Whistlestop’s Laughter Club invites you to join others starting September 14 on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays,
10 to 10:30 am. in a safe cardiac workout that will exercise your funny bone and boost your immune system. You will also have an opportunity to ex-press your emotions and reawaken your in-
ner child. Other benefi ts of the Laughter Club: detoxify your lungs with deep breathing; lower your blood pres-sure with laugh-ter; stimulate your brain and release healthy endorphins. All fi tness levels are wel-come, says Susan
Wilkins, certifi ed Laughter Club leader. “Just dress comfy and wear socks.” The Laughter Club concept has been featured on Oprah, the Today Show, Dancing With the Stars, CNN, the Discovery Channel and throughout the news media. Thousands of people in 72 coun-tries now participate in Laughter Clubs. For more information about Whistlestop’s club, call 415-456-9062 or sign up in the front offi ce. Classes are free but donations are always appreciated. Whistlestop’s Active Aging Center is located 930 Talmalpais Ave., San Rafael. ✦
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Whistlestop Express SEPTEMBER 20118
Keep Learning at WHISTLESTOPBEGINNING COMPUTERS FOR ADULTS LEVEL IIThursdays, September 15-October 20 • 10 to NoonInstructor: Ed Essick | Fee: $60 for 6 classesPre-registration required: 459-6700Build on the skills learned in Beginning Computers for Adults Level I. You will learn how to: work with the programs and features of Windows, create and save documents using a word processing program, search the Internet using search engines, save and organize information, such as pictures and documents, work with email and attachments, secure your computer from intrusion, and download information and programs from the Internet.
BEGINNING COMPUTER/PICTURE CLASS2nd Friday • 2 to 4pmInstructor: Gene Dyer | Fee: $15Pre-registration required: 459-6700Prerequisite: Basic Computer SkillsHere’s your opportunity to learn how to share your digital photos with friends and family. Learn how to set up your computer to receive photos and how to transfer them from your camera, CD or fl ash drive onto your computer’s hard drive. Once on the computer, learn how to send and receive them with your friends by attaching them to your e-mail program. Bring camera and cable.
ADVANCED COMPUTER/PICTURE CLASS3rd Friday • 2 to 4pmInstructor: Gene Dyer | Fee: $15Pre-registration required: 459-6700Prerequisite: Beginners Class or experience transferring pictures from camera to computer and using as attachments to e-mails.View various ways to display your pictures on your computer, on your TV, and on other people’s computers using slide shows, Word or PDF documents, Power Point Presentation with text and sound and Movie format including text, fades and sound.
FACEBOOK COMPUTER CLASSTuesday, October 4 & 11 • 10 to NoonInstructor: Karl Hoppe | Fee: $30Pre-registration required: 459-6700Are you interested in learning about one of the most popular social networking sites on the Internet?This is a hands-on class, and we will start out by setting up an account, show you how to upload a profi le picture, how to add photo albums, how to write on a wall, how to send messages, how to become a member of a group and more! It’s a great way to stay in touch with family and friends. Bring your email address/password and a picture
on a CD or fl ash drive to class. Students are expected to be familiar with PCs.
COMPUTER LAB DROP-IN CLASSWednesdays • 10 to 2pm & Mondays • 10 to NoonWould you like some extra help practicing your computer skills? Free drop-in computer instruction every week in the Computer Room uninstructed. One-on-one instruction provided.
MOVEMENT AND MUSIC FOR THE OLDER ADULTMondays, September 12 - October 17 • 11:10 to NoonInstructor: Diane Hain | Free, donations welcomeRegistration required through Whistlestop or College of Marin.Music is a universal language. This exercise class is created for older adults who have not been exercising regularly or have arthritis related problems. It moves at a moderate, comfortable (yet progressively challenging) pace to meet individual needs. Chair exercises (to tone both upper and lower body muscles) will comprise a major portion of the class. Also included: joint fl exibility, muscle strengthening, balance, breathing coordination and modifi ed Tai Chi movements, combined with relaxing music, conducive to reducing stress.
RESTORE & IMPROVE YOUR BALANCE TRAINING CLASSTues. & Thurs., Sept. 20 - Oct. 13 • 2:30 to 3:30pmInstructor: Thomas Attardi, BS, MA, NMTFee: $75/ 8-week course | Registration required: 456-9062In 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 improve your balance. We will learn the best exercises for stronger legs to prevent falls and safeguard against risks of injury. We will also cover what to do if we fall. Bring a water bottle and 1-lb. or 2-lb. weights to class.
LAUGHTER CLUB2nd & 4th Wednesdays • 10 to 10:30 amInstructor: Susan Wilkins, certifi ed Laughter Club LeaderFree | 456-9062Exercise your funny bone! Express your emotions! Reawaken your inner child!Some benefi ts of Laughter Club are: Safe cardiac workout, detoxify the lungs with deep breathing, lower blood pressure with laughter and stimulate the brain and release endorphins. All fi tness levels welcome. Dress comfy and wear socks.
ABCs OF TRANSPORTATION FOR MARIN COUNTY SENIORSWednesday, September 28 • 9 to NoonMargaret Todd Senior Center, 1560 Hill Rd, NovatoPresenters: Marin Transit, Whistlestop, Golden Gate Transit, Novato Dial-A-Ride, DMVFree | Reservations: 899-8290Come get information about bus services, paratransit, volunteer transportation, senior discounts for taxis and more! Learn about the new Marin Access Mobility Management Center and other new transportation services that are in the works!
COMING SOON IN OCTOBER! OKTOBERFEST LUNCHEONThursday, October 20 • 11 to 2pmMAXIMIZE YOUR MEMORY/MAINTAIN YOUR BRAINFriday, October 21 • 11 to 12:30pmHICAP PRESENTATION: MEDICARE & YOUR OPTIONSThursday • October 27REMEMBRANCE WRITING 101 WORKSHOP(No Writing Experience Necessary)Tuesdays & Thursdays • 2 to 4pm
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIESContact: Debbie at 456-9062 or [email protected]
Jackson Café volunteers needed• Front Desk/ Host(ess)• Tax Preparers•
MAH JONGGWednesdays • 10:30 to NoonFacilitator: Shirley EtemadfarFree | For Information: 456-9062American Mah Jongg is a game that originally came from China. If you’ve played gin rummy, you have a head start in learning how to play this game. However, instead of cards, you play with tiles that are stamped with symbols and characters. You mix up the tiles, stack them into “walls” and get 13 to start a hand. After much passing, picking and discarding, the fi rst person to assemble combinations of these tiles into specifi c patterns wins the game. We play with a card that shows all the possible hands you can make. We’ll have cards and Mah Jongg sets available for you to use as you learn. It’s a sociable, competitive, exciting and addictive game that’s truly lots of fun! Beginners and experienced players are welcome.
ART PROJECTS CLASS1st Friday • 11 to 12:30pmFacilitator: Celeste Parcell | Free | Information: 456-9062Learn how to create different types of art projects. October 7: Fall Foliage
ON SITE NOTARY PUBLIC2nd Tuesday • 12:30 to 2pmRob Rudy, Certifi ed NotaryCall to confi rm date & times: 456-9062Fee: $2 per signature and all proceeds will be donated to WhistlestopRob has volunteered to offer notarial services to clients, visitors and employees of Whistlestop. Feel free to drop by and say hello. Drop-in only.
FLU SHOT CLINIC AT WHISTLESTOPSeptember 19-21 • 11 to 1pmFacilitators: Certifi ed CVS PharmacistsFee: Free with Medicare & $25 withoutDrop-in onlyProtect yourself from the fl u this winter. Stop by for a fl u shot. Must present Medicare card with ID at clinic.
OSTEOPOROSIS AWARENESS & PREVENTIONTuesday, September 27 • Noon to 1pmPresenter: Dr. Paul Podwojski, La Vita Wellness CenterFree | Registration required: 456-9062Learn how to prevent osteoporosis and how you could possibly reverse the effects of it. Learn cutting-edge information that medical doctors don’t tell you.
COMMISSION ON AGINGThursday, September 8 • 10-12:30 pmMargaret Todd Senior Center1560 Hill Road, Novato, CAPresenter: Stu Maddux, FilmmakerDirector and Producer: Special GuestTopic: GenSilent, Film Viewing and Panel Discussion
Next Meeting: October 13 • 9:30 am Dance Palace, West Marin
Whistlestop Express SEPTEMBER 201110
Whistlestop ACTIVITIES This Month at Whistlestop TIME CLASS LOCATION MISC. COST9:30–10:30 AM Reading Club for Box Car 454-0998 for info Free Spanish Speakers 10:00–11:00 AM AM Monday (Discussion) Caboose 2 457-0586 for info Free11:00–12:30 PM German Social Group Box Car Open Free2:00–4:00 PM ESL Caboose, Board Rm. 457-8811 for info Free4:00–5:30 PM Citizenship Class Caboose 454-0998 for info Free
9:15–10:15 AM Whistlesizers (Exercise) Caboose Open $210:00–2:00 PM Asian Social Group Caboose 454-1552 for info Free10:45–11:45 AM Cardio Exercise Class Caboose Open Free11:00–12:30 PM German Group Box Car Open Free11:00–2:00 PM Manicurist Lounge Appt. Needed Free1:00–3:00 PM Learn Spanish Caboose Open Free2:00–3:00 PM ESL Vietnamese Caboose 454-1552 for info Free2:00–3:30 PM English Conversation Board Room 454-0998 for info Free2:30–3:30 PM Balance Class Jackson Café Open $10
9:15–10:15 AM Whistlesizers (Exercise) Caboose Open $210:00–NOON PM Knit!!! Lounge 454-0998 for info Free10:00–2:00 PM Asian Social Group Caboose 454-1552 for info Free10:30–NOON Watercolors with Hilda Lounge Open Free2:00-3:30 PM English Conversation Caboose 454-0998 for info Free 2:00–4:00 PM Remembrance Writing Board Room Open $53:00–4:00 PM Basic English for Caboose 457-0586 for info Free Spanish Speakers
9:00–10:15 AM Tai Chi Qigong Caboose Suggested Donation $10 9:00–2:00 PM Chair Massage Lounge Open $4/8min.10:00–11:30 AM Seniors' Circle (Support) Board Room Open Free10:30–NOON Mah Jongg Caboose Open $10Free10:00–2:00 PM Computer Lab Computer Lab Open Free10:45–11:45 AM Corazón Latino Caboose Open Free2:00–4:00 PM ESL Caboose, Board Rm. 457-8811 for info Free3:00–4:00 PM Basic English for Caboose 457-0586 for info Free Spanish Speakers
9:00–2:00 PM Chair Massage Lounge Open $4/8min.11:00–1:00 PM WS Knitters Caboose 1st Fri. Arts & Crafts Free1:30–3:30 PM ACASA (Support/Training) Board Room Peer Counseling Free1:30–3:30 PM Practice Spanish (Club) Staff Lounge Open Free2:00–4:00 PM Friday Movie Caboose 1st, 3rd & 5th Fridays $22:00–4:00 PM Arts & Crafts w/Vicky Caboose 457-0586 for info $2-$33:00–4:00 PM Yoga with Kelly Jackson Café 456-9062 for info $3
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The Caboose, Computer Lab, Board Room and Jackson Café are all located at Whistlestop’s Active Aging Center – 930 Tamalpais Ave., San Rafael.
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ENU 60+ PRICES/ UNDER 60 PRICES
Main Entrée $4.00/$6.75Sandwiches $3.75/$5.00Soup du Jour $1.75/$2.25Hamburger w/Fries $4.25/$5.25Salads $2.50/$4.00
OTHER ITEMSTuna Salad Side $1.25Fresh Fruit $1.50Beverages $1.00Desserts $1.50
Jackson Café Monday-Friday 11:30am-2:00pmLocated in Whistlestop Active Aging CenterJackson Café
whistlestop.org 11
The Bird's SideOF MARIN b y R I C H A R D P A V E K
Not everyone realizes there are daily ‘fi sh fl ights’ over Marin. No, not by
aircraft, these fl ights are by long-ranging Ospreys. Every morning and evening these fi sh hunters leave their large solitary nests atop tall trees in the foothills
of Mt. Tam and fl y six or eight miles to the San Pablo, Richardson or San Rafael Bays to search for breakfast or dinner. When a suitable fi sh is spotted, the Osprey plummets feet fi rst into the water, often being partially submerged for a bit by a futilely struggling fi sh. Once secured, it lifts its catch – often weighing half its own weight – up and out of the clutching water. The photo shows the Osprey’s huge claws grasp-ing a fl ounder. The Osprey’s eyes in this photo
appear blind, but they are not. Ospreys have a ‘nictitating’ membrane, a translucent eyelid that extends to shield the eyes when underwater, and to clean them. The Osprey here frequently shield-ed its eyes from the painful and damaging rays of the setting sun on its long, slow fl ight home. Probably the best place to see Ospreys in Marin is the Starkweather Shoreline Path, at the east end of Bellam, in San Rafael. If you go in the eve-ning, they are easy to spot among the ubiquitous and much slower Gulls that abound. No guaran-tees, though. I have spent many an evening wait-ing with little Osprey action to show for it. That was okay; the other birds made it worthwhile. 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 [email protected]. Till next time, Richard
'What do you think about getting married in Italy?'
In keeping with this month’s theme of “humor and happiness,” I offer the story of how I got married in Florence, Italy, 25
years ago. Although I have been in the in-vestment business for over 18 years, I had an earlier career as a chef at the famous Berkeley restaurant, Chez Panisse. During my second year at Chez Panisse, Paul Bertolli was head chef. Under his leadership, the menu had taken a decidedly Italian turn. It seemed only natural that Italy should be my next culinary destination. My girlfriend, Yvonne, and I began saving for the trip. It started as a food adventure; we decided to go in the fall to be there during white truffl e and wild mushroom season. Late one night during our planning I popped
the question, “What do you think about getting married in Italy?” We were both giddy at the thought! We began working with the Italian consulate in San Francisco. Yvonne invited one of her best friends, Charisse, to come along. We were especially thrilled that she could speak Italian. I studied enough of the language to seek out white truffl es. Vocabulary to arrange a marriage ceremony was way out of my league. Finally, the time for our magical journey arrived. We rented a little villa (aka villina) in the San Donato in Collina, outside
Florence. It could not have been more idyllic! Our landlords, the Binis, welcomed us and invited us up to their apartment for wine and crostini. The crostini were exquisite. Mrs. Bini revealed the “secret” of her liver crostini: anchovies. I was determined to recreate the recipe
when I returned to Chez, where it became an instant hit, affectionately known as “Bini Crostini.” A few days later, we began making arrangements in earnest to tie the knot in the town hall of Florence. Yvonne, Charisse and I went to the offi ce at the Palazzo Signoria. The young woman at the desk spoke virtually no English. We quickly discovered that Charisse didn’t know nearly as much Italian as we thought. In desperation, I called Mr. Bini to see if he could help. We were all passing the phone around. Mr. Bini kept apologizing that he could not attend the wedding. I hadn’t invited him. We just needed him to explain that we wanted to secure a date to be married. The young woman kept calling me by my middle name, Guy. She pronounced my last name as if it was French and it sounded like “Gooey Stofay.” I would have been laughing if the whole thing were not so frustrating. After what felt like Abbott & Costello’s “Who’s on First?” routine, we fi nally had our date. On October 23, 1985, the Deputy Mayor of Florence performed the ceremony in the Sala Rosa of the Palazzo Signoria. Molto buon! ✦Jeff Stoffer, CFA, CFP, is a Whistlestop Board member.
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‘Seize the Day! Senior Power!’ Info Fair October 19
Come celebrate your power and your life at the 2011 Marin Senior Information Fair. Seize the day to celebrate, investi-
gate, share your opinions and learn about new resources. Whistlestop Wheels will provide free, round trip rides from our Active Aging Center at 930 Tamalpais Avenue, downtown San Rafael, to the Fair and back. Fair visitors who drive and
park can take the free parking lot shuttle service from the various Fair parking areas to the Fair’s front door — and back to their vehicles. The Fair’s theme is “Seize
the Day! Senior Power!” and is open Wednesday, October 19, from
9am to 3pm at the Marin Exhibit Hall, 10 Avenue of The Flags, in San Rafael. Admis-sion is free. More than 130 Fair booths will feature infor-mation about things of concern to older adults, including: housing, legal issues, volunteer op-portunities, voting, social security, medication, Medicare, physical therapies, safety and medical equipment, travel, health related issues, home care, hospitals, nutrition, education, physical fi t-ness, hospice, health testing, cultural activities, fi nance, real estate, senior support programs of all kinds and more. 2011 booth offerings will include a variety of health evaluations, computer lessons, fl u shots, spinal screenings, professional massage therapy, chiropractic evaluations, blood pres-sure checks and other health screenings, food tasting, prize drawings, a digital camera clinic and much more. There will be ballroom dancing to the tunes of the Starduster Orchestra. Day-long entertain-ment includes intergenerational performances by Bay Area dancers, singers, physical fi tness instruction, demonstrations, art shows, hands-on activities, at-booth giveaways, prizes, awards and more. The emcee will be Jan Wahl of KRON TV and KCBS Radio. Last year, the Fair attracted 4,500 visitors. For more information, visit www.marinsenior-informationfair.org/. ✦
pa cshutFafrove
the open
9am to 3p
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Tickle Your Fancy By WatchingRat Tickler Video on Internet
We guarantee a laugh or two if you check out the Internet video of scientist Jaak Panskepp tickling rats.
A New York Times article written by John Tierney led us to the video and we had to share it with you. When you play the video you will hear the tickled rats chirping — an ultrasonic noise that’s audible thanks to the special equipment that enabled Dr. Panksepp and his colleagues to discover this phenomenon. The NY Times reports, “Young rats make the same chirp when they chase and play with one another, and they like to hang out with other rats who chirp at this frequency (50 kHz). It seems to be a happy sound: rats will run mazes and press levers in or-der to be tickled, and they’ll emit the same chirp when the dopamine reward circuits in the brain are stimulated.” Hear it for yourself by going to the Discov-ery Channel online and clicking on “Laughing Rat.” (Requires Quicktime.) or search "tickling rat" on You Tube. ✦
Whistlestop Express SEPTEMBER 201114
Grand MOMby AUDREY METTEL FIXMER
Laughter is Best Medicine
I learned about God’s humor from Sister Gregory, a delightful Franciscan nun who was staff advisor for my high school news-
paper. As editor, I had to ‘put the paper to bed,’ writing the last headlines, crossing the t’s and dotting the i’s before going to press. One night we had to work right through dinner time and both confessed we were hungry. Sister excused herself and returned with a heaping, fragrant bowl of popcorn. As we dove into it she said, giggling, “I always see God’s humor in popcorn. Can’t you imagine him chuckling as he created the ear of corn, saying, ‘Wait ’til they see what happens when they get this near fi re?’” I believe God wants us to delight in all creation just as we did when we were babies, discovering the wonders of the world. We marveled to fi nd that our little arms could hug a mama’s leg. We giggled to see cartoon characters slip, slide and
fall on their butts. We thrilled at the satisfaction of learning new skills as our bodies and minds developed in amazing ways. Now as we age, we must watch those bodily functions go into reverse. Every day, it seems, we check off another thing we can no longer do. Let’s not cry about it but fi nd the humor in it. Recently I met my old friend and former col-league, Tony, out for his daily brisk walk. I praised him for keeping in such good shape in his 70’s. “But you know what?” He replied, “I can’t stand on one foot anymore!” “So? You gave up ballet?” We both laughed at that. We oldies are careful to keep our prescriptions fi lled, but the best medicine is laughter. We need to refi ll that prescription every day by hanging out with people who are ‘suppliers’ of laughter. As an octogenarian, I like to hang out with people of all ages. Here’s a partial list of rules:• Hang out with your great grands; they’ll help
you get up off the fl oor.• Hang out with four-year-olds. They fi nd humor
in your wrinkly arms.• Hang out with your ‘kids’ in their 40’s and 50’s;
they’ll tote your groceries.• Hang out with your friends in their 60’s; they
can still drive at night.• Hang out with bridge friends in their 70’s; they
might remember who dealt last.• Hang out with medical people; they under-
stand your bad plumbing.• Hang out with positive, happy people; they will
shine through the clouds. And remember that God who laughed when he created popcorn? I think he is still chuckling as he sees us oldies watching our bodies deteriorate. Now he’s saying, “Wait ’till they see the new bod-ies I have waiting for them up here.” ✦
415-884-4343 • www.HiredHandsHomecare.com
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• Our caregivers are our employees—each is insured and bonded, and has gone through rigorous screening, orientation and training
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• Family-owned and operated since 1994
Call today for a complimentary Needs Assessment and Home Safety Evaluation
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Marin’s Gary Gruber (www.drgarygruber.com) is recognized as the leading authority on standardized tests. Through his work, more than 35 books, he has helped students dramatically increase aptitude, intelligence and standardized test scores on tests like the SAT and ACT. His Brain Teasers column appears quarterly in Whistlestop Express.
Question: Assuming the statement “Only the good die young,” is true, we can infer which two of the following?a) No good person lives to an old age.b) Anyone who lives to an old age must be bad.c) Only bad people do not die young.d) All bad people do not die young.e) Some bad people die young.
Answer:
BrainTEASERS B y G A R Y G R U B E R , P H D
a and d. “Only the good die young” means that those who are not good do not die young and no good person does not die young. Choice c would have been correct if people were either good or bad. Some may be neither.
Even If You Hire Outside Help, You Are Still the CaregiverB y M A R Y B L O U N T
Caregivers often feel guilty, as if they are giving up on their loved ones, when they hire an agency to help. If you are in this
position, you might consider that extra help could make you a better caregiver. Taking care of your loved ones means giving them the best care you can provide. Often, during the early years, that typically means your own lov-ing, hands-on care. However, as their needs grow, the best care sometimes means you need to hire help to come into the home or arrange adult day care while you work. Perhaps it means they need to move to assisted living or even a nursing home. Remember, none of these changes means you give up your role as caregiver. Changes in care arrange-ments simply mean that now you are not providing all of the hands-on care. Instead, you may help with some care and you now can act as a direct advocate for your loved ones, overseeing the help you pay for. In other words, you are still a caregiver, but your duties have shifted. You may still be on call 24/7, but you should have enough help so that you can get some sleep. If there is an emer-gency, you can be alerted. If there is a change in medication, you can be told. Being an advocate doesn’t mean you create an adversarial relationship with the paid caregivers who now help provide care. It’s quite the con-trary. The more you make it clear that you are all a team, the better your relationship with the hired caregivers will be. This team cooperation can cause peace of mind. Caregiving often shifts the relationship with your loved one. Getting help can improve your relation-ship with your loved one. You get to be daughter/son again or husband/wife. Mary Lou Blount is a principal in Your Home Care For Life. She can be reached at 415-895-5185. ✦
My Broker Donates can make sure your next prop-erty sale will boost the quality of life for Marin’s older adults. My Broker Donates connects you with the best-in-market realtors who will do-nate 15% of their referral fee to Whistlestop. You choose the agent. Buy or sell a home, generate a sizable donation. Go to www.mybrokerdonates.com for more information.Good Search — simply go to GoodSearch.com, and when you search the internet using their search engine, Whistlestop gets a donation! GoodSearch is a search engine which donates 50-percent of its revenue to the charities and schools designated by its users. It’s a simple and compelling concept. You use GoodSearch exactly as you would any other search engine. Because it’s powered by Yahoo!, you get proven search results. The money GoodSearch donates to your cause comes from its advertisers — the users and the organizations do not spend a dime! ✦
Easy Ways toSupport Whistlestop
LIGHTEN UPA horse goes into a bar and the bartender says, "Hey, Buddy. Why the long face?
,
Whistlestop Express SEPTEMBER 201116
Marin Senior Coordinating Council
930 Tamalpais AvenueSan Rafael, CA 94901-3325
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