whistlestop express april 2012

What does a granddaughter learn from one of the most successful busi-nessmen in Marin County history?

Stephanie Plante of San Rafael learned most of what she knows about business from her grandfather, Martin Bramante. But perhaps more signifi cantly, she learned the importance of family. Stephanie, 41, is president of Cal-Pox Inc., the San Rafael fi rm that her grandfather founded in 1967. When asked about Martin’s infl uence on her life she said, “He has such a strong work ethic. Still comes into the offi ce almost every day at age 92. He is self-edu-cated and I admire his street smarts. He is a shrewd businessman. He is generous of heart and spirit, but he can also play hardball as a businessman. Very tough. I have learned so much about business from him.” Beyond that, she said that, thanks to her grandfather, she has developed deep respect and value for her family. Stephanie started at Cal-Pox Inc. in 1999 after her mother, Susan Kirby, passed away at age 53. Susan, Martin’s daughter, helped transform Shoreline Center into a buzzing business hub. Stephanie, who had worked for several years in television production and as the on-air traffi c reporter for San Francisco’s KRON-TV, was grieving her mother’s death.

She left television to go help out at the family business. “I decided that since no one in the offi ce, after Mom died, knew how to turn on the computers, I would go fi ll in.” That was in 1999, and six years later, she became president of the company. Stephanie and her husband, Chris Plante, an international development grants executive who works on environmental projects in Asia, have two children. Martin has another daugh-ter, Kathy LeGrand, who has two children, Greg Hansen and Gianna Hansen, also Mar-tin’s grandchildren. Stephanie, Kathy, Greg, who is vice president, and Gianna own Cal-Pox and all serve together on its Board. Stephanie was Martin and Velia Bramante’s fi rst grandchild. “I have won-

E PRESSThe Leading Information Resource for Marin's Active Aging MovementAPRIL 2012 Whistlestop.org

Whistlestop

Bird's Sideof Marinpage 11

Andrew Mellen Coming toWhistlestoppage 6

Jackson CafeFeatured inthe Marin IJpage 4

Stephanie Plante and her grandfather, Martin Bramante, take a moment to relax.

Grandfather Wisdom: Business AcumenMixed With Love of FamilyB y J O H N B O W M A N

continued on page 3

Whistlestop Express APRIL 20122

Table ofCONTENTS

Readers Write InTrue Heitz

From Rocky's PantryRocky Packard

Kids & Ice CreamPhoto by Rick Budde

Andrew Mellen Event

Whistlestop Classes

Activities Calendar

The Bird's Side of MarinRichard Pavek

Chochoy Rivero

Grand MomAudrey Mettel Fixmer

Word SearchPaul Gruner

3

4

5

68/91011

1214

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 • Lori Peterson • Bill SaulBob SonnenbergWhistlestop 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

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 [email protected].

Subscriptions mailed to your home are $10/year.

LIKE US on Facebook

The Joy of Grandparenthood

Whistlestop PERSPECTIVE by JOE O'HEHIR

The Marin IJ recently fea-tured a story about author Lewis Richmond of Mill

Valley and his new book, Aging as a Spiritual Practice: A Contemplative Guide to Growing Older and Wiser. Lewis writes about a stage in life he calls “el-derhood.” Lewis says that we label certain periods in our life as “hoods”—childhood, adulthood, and parenthood. He says that elderhood is the stage that has as much usefulness and integrity as adult-hood or parenthood. I would like to suggest that there is another “hood” period of life — grandparenthood. If you are fortunate enough to have grandchildren, this can be one of the most joyous stages of life. It feels a lot like childhood to me, except that you are expe-riencing it through the eyes of your grandchildren. Grandparenthood is quite different from parenthood. That doesn’t mean that we do not love our children as much as our grandchildren. Yet, as a parent you can sometimes feel overwhelmed by the im-mense responsibility of caring for and raising your children. While parenthood is fi lled with happy and proud moments, it also brings moments of anxi-ety and doubt, and a lot of second-guessing. Did I do all the right things in raising my children? Did I smother them with control, or was I

too lax and not involved when I should have been? The beauty of grandparent-hood is that you get to totally

enjoy your grandchildren without all the trials and tribulations associated with parental responsi-bilities. You experience the sheer wonder and joy of your grandchild’s birth, and the feeling of happiness being with them during their spe-cial moments as toddlers and young children. You can enjoy laughter in-

stead of worry; silliness instead of seriousness; patience instead of frustration; spontaneity in-stead of discipline. You can also experience a feel-ing of pride during grandparent-hood. There is a sense of accom-plishment when you watch your children parent their children. You then realize that you did do a good job raising your kids because your grandchildren are happy and safe in their care. I sense a great deal of satisfaction when my son or daughter shares the good times and the challeng-ing times they have as parents to their sons and daughters. Grandparenthood provides the true meaning for the circle of life. Laughing and playing with your grandchild does bring you back to the childhood memories with your parents and grand-parents. You experience a sense of completeness to your life. Enjoy the ride. ✦Joe O’Heir is CEO of Whistlestop.

Lexie, one of Joe’s four grandchildren

whistlestop.org 3

ReadersWRITE IN

< Continued from page 1

You Can Help Paula With Chemo Caps

Our own beloved Paula Ross, age 91, who leads a group here at Whistlestop for people who want to speak German with

one another, has volunteered to knit attractive, colorful, warm hats for people who have lost their hair because of chemotherapy.

Nurses at neighborhood hospitals say they will be so grateful and will take as many hats as Paula can produce. “I can knit about three a day,” says Paula modestly. “If I keep at it.” On many days you can see her knitting in the Whistlestop lobby after lunch.

“Please,” Paula says. “I would like to put a label in each of the hats that says ‘Love, Paula.’ It would be embroidered or written on a small piece of material.” Is there anyone who would like to do that? If you are interested, please contact me through the Whistlestop offi ce. ✦

Thank you,True Heitz, [email protected]

derful memories of that time. I can remember many family vacations in Tahoe and Hawaii.” Stephanie earned her undergraduate degree from UC Berkeley and her MA in Television Production at San Francisco State University.And yet, she has learned so much more from her grandfather, who never graduated from high school. She said that when she was at KRON, “He was a living, breathing business card for me. He’d tell everyone he met that I was on TV.” Stephanie said that while Martin still has a hand in the family business, he also saves time to play. “He loves to play cards, so it’s a bit of time at the offi ce and lots of time at the card table.” ✦

Grocery Shopping Prepare Meals Light Housekeeping Drive to Appointment Run Errands

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

Helping You Maintain Your Independence

A sample of our services:

As everyday life becomes more challenging, a little help can go a long way.

Call Today and Get $25 off! 415-451-0100

• Hospice Care• Companion Care• Housekeeping• Transportation• Run Errands• Post Surgery Care

• Memory Care• Med Reminders• Bathing/Dressing• Laundry• Cooking• And Much More!

Is a Reverse Mortgage Right for You

and Your Family?Free Reverse Mortgage Information

For Free Reverse Mortgage Information that Explains Your Options, Call: 877.217.0166 Toll Free

Tap into your home’s value with a reverse mortgage. The tax-free* proceeds are not repaid until you no longer occupy your property. You will always own

your home. Minimum age is 62.

*Consult your tax advisor. © 2012 1st Reverse Mortgage USA®, Division of Cherry Creek Mortgage Co., Inc. Licensed by the Dept. of Corporations under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act. Advertisement in tended for consumers within CA. To check license status of your mortgage broker visit http://nmlsconsumeraccess.org.

MARGE BOTTARIReverse Mortgage

Consultant, NMLS #252521

305-3425 (direct line)

HOMA NADJAFI-RASSOULIReverse Mortgage Consultant, NMLS #455497

717-4618 (direct line)


being among the county’s seniors and people with disabilities. Because you never noticed it, you never thought to eat there, right? Adjust your lunch-time routine, and put your automobile in park at 930 Tamalpais. Here’s why; the food is good and the daily menu of classic, continental American fare — think pork with mustard sauce, spaghetti Bolognese and chicken chow mein — is a steal at roughly $4.50, $7.25 if you were born after 1952, (yes, there is a price break once you grace the age of 60) for an entrée that includes a protein, one or two vegetables and a starch. Added bonus — the people who prep and cook at Jackson Café are either enrolled in or are graduates of Homeward Bound’s Fresh Start Culinary Academy of Marin,

From Rocky's PANTRYb y R O C K Y P A C K A R D

Red Wine Red Marmalade Marinade

You’ve driven by it 100 times. A thousand. And you probably never noticed it. Whis-tlestop’s Jackson Café, adjacent to the

Marin Transit Center in San Rafael, is one of the many services offered by a 57-year-old organiza-tion that promotes independent living and well

Maurice Lewis prepares an order of spaghetti Bolognese at Jackson Cafe.

Discover Jackson Café: Good Food, and Hope for HomelessB Y C H R I S T I N A M U E L L E RMarin Independent Journal Correspondent

This relish can be served hot or cold. When warm, it is excellent over sliced lamb or beef, and, it is an excellent condiment for

sandwiches when served cold. Serves 12

2 Pounds Diced Red Onion 1 1/2 Cups Red Wine 3 Tbs Olive Oil 2 Tbs Butter 2 Tbs Brown Sugar 1 Tbs Fresh Chopped Mint Salt and Pepper

Heat the oil and the butter. Sauté red onion in the oil and butter mixture until evenly carmel-ized. When carmelized, add red wine and reduce until almost dry. Add brown sugar and reduce an additional two minutes. Cool and add chopped mint and season with salt and pepper to taste. Per serving (excluding unknown items): 1195 Calories; 65g Fat (58.2% calories from fat); 10g Protein; 94g Carbohydrate; 15g Dietary Fiber;62mg Cholesterol; 496mg Sodium. Exchanges: 12 1/2 Vegetable; 121/2 Fat; 1 other carbohy-drates. ✦

continued on page 15

PROVIDING IN-HOME PERSONAL CARE & COMPANIONSHIP FOR SENIORS

Providing Hourly & 24 Hour CareLong Term & Short Care – Minimum is 3 Hours

Cell 415-497-3733

Lic.#00013550

Serving All of Marin County

415.895.1824PLEASE CALL FOR RATES

ALL PERSONAL CARE

BODY MECHANICS

Meal PreparationGrocery ShoppingLight HousekeepingDriving/ErrandsMedication RemindersBed Bath/Sponge Baths

Moving Patients in BedOccupied Bed LinesWheelchairsTransfer BoardRange of MotionExercise

Anderson Senior CareAnderson Senior Care

Years of ExperienceCNA Certified

Good References

IJ p

hoto

/Rob

ert T

ong

whistlestop.org 5

Word Search ANSWERS

What fun it must be for a professional photographer to take pictures of his grandchildren. Here is photographer Rick Budde's 2003 photo of his grandsons, Raynan and Tony, then ages 5 and 3 respectively. They are the sons of Whistlestop's Rebecca Lack.

Tom MacDonaldReverse Mortgage Consultant 415-295-6700

All loans are subject to approval. Certain conditions and fees apply. Mortgage financing provided by MetLife Home Loans, a division of MetLife Bank, N.A., Equal Housing Lender. © 2011 METLIFE, INC. R0911208257 [exp0912] [All States] [DC] 1112-4547 © 2010

Available from MetLife Bank, N.A., it’s a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) that may save the average homeowner age 62 or older thousands of dollars. It significantly reduces your up-front costs as compared to our other HECM reverse mortgages. Contact me to get the facts.

Now, there’s a lower cost HECM reverse mortgage.

I Scream, You Scream ...


Whistlestop to Present National Organizing Expert on April 25th

As part of its mission to provide vital servic-es to Marin County’s older adults, Whis-tlestop presents “Lighten Your Load!,” a

workshop for older adults and their families by nationally-known expert Andrew J. Mellen, “the most organized man in America,” on Wednes-day, April 25. The event will be from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Jackson Café in the Whistlestop build-ing, 930 Tamalpais Ave., downtown San Rafael. Light refreshments will be served at 5:30pm. Mellen, author of the best-seller Unstuff Your Life!, will discuss simple and effective ways to manage your belongings, your affairs and your life. He will offer an extended question and an-swer session to address specifi c problems. In addition, estate attorneys Jennifer Cowan, Bill Saul and Julia Wald, along with experts from Frank Howard Allen, HomeWell Senior Care and Silver Rain Estate Transition Services will be available for individual consultations. Admission is $15 payable to Whistlestop. To buy your ticket, call Whistlestop at 415-456-9062 with a credit card, or mail in a check. For more information, visit www.AndrewMellen.com or www.Whistlestop.org. Mellen is a professional organizer, speaker, and best-selling author. He has helped tens of thousands of people around the world to unclut-ter their lives and gain time for the things that are really important—which often aren’t even things at all. Andrew has addressed audiences from TEDx-Knoxville to NetApp’s Silicon Valley campus. He has appeared on The Nate Berkus Show; O, The Oprah Magazine; Martha Stewart Living Today; Oprah & Friends; Great Day Houston, ABC; NBC; CBS; CW11; HGTV; Ladies’ Home

Journal; Woman’s Day; Live Well Network; USA Today; GQ; InStyle; All You; Fine Living; Better TV; DIY Network; and NPR. He also maintains a private practice, offer-ing one-on-one sessions to clients ranging from CEOs, attorneys and psychologists to award-winning fi lmmakers, artists and authors. Previously he was an award-winning play-wright, actor, producer and director and the former Artistic Director of Alice B. Theater (Se-attle), DC Arts Center (Washington, DC) and Shuttle Theater Company (New York). ✦

Andrew Mellen has been called "The most organized man in America."

Comfortable, Community Living for Independent Seniors 63+

WELCOME HOME TO TAM HOUSE!

from $850/month

TamHouse.orgCall: 457-5633

Rooms Open Now!

(Includes utilities and most food!) Whistlestop Gift Shop is a perfect place to fi nd a handmade gift for a birthday, anniversary or new baby. Everything under $10. All proceeds help cover the cost for clients who would be unable to attend our Friday Arts & Crafts class with Vicky. Stop by and check out the fabulous collection of handmade treasures. Contact Vicky at 456-9062 or vickyv@ whistlestop.org.

whistlestop.org 7

Jackson Café — Best Lunch, Most Economicalin Our Best of Marin for Older Adults Survey

Whistlestop’s Jackson Café was the favorite of those voting in our “Best of Marin for Older Adults” survey in two

categories – Best Lunch and Most Economical. The Café is located in the Whistlestop building at 930 Tamalpais Ave., San Rafael. Half Day Café of Kentfi eld took the honors in Best Breakfast and Best Brunch.OTHER FOOD WINNERSBest Dinner, Taki of Novato; Best Service, My Thai of San Rafael; Best American Food, Pacifi c Café, Kentfi eld; Best Burger, Phyllis’s, San Rafael; Hotdog, Costco, Novato; Burrito, Hi Tech Burrito, San Rafael; Soup, Eduardo’s, San Rafael; Salad Bar, Fresh Choice, Novato; Buffet, Super Buffet, Novato; Pizza, Mulberry’s, San Rafael.

OTHER WINNERSShopping – Supermarket, United Markets of San Rafael and San Anselmo; Farmer’s Market, Civic Center, San Rafael; Clothing, Macy’s of San Ra-fael and Corte Madera; Children’s Store, A Child’s Delight, San Rafael; Pet Store, Pet Club, Corte Madera; Bookstore, Book Passage, Corte Madera.

MISCELLANEOUS Continuing Ed Class, College of Marin in Kent-fi eld and Novato; Computer Class, Whistlestop; Best Park, Gerstle Park, San Rafael; Most Beau-tiful Vista and Best Walking/Hiking, Mount Tamalpais. ✦

www.TheRedwoods.org New Views of The Redwoods

Luxury Retirement Livingin Marin County

For Sales or Leasing Information, Call Smith Ranch Marketing

415-491-4918 • www.SmithRanchHomes.com400 Deer Valley Road, San Rafael

Gated CommunityVillas & Condos750-2400 sq. ft.

24 Hour Security & Call System2 Restaurants in Clubhouse

Transportation, Housekeeping & Valet ServicesAccess to Health Care Providers

Nancy Mack, RN, PHN, GCM

A Senior Services Agencyoffering

Geriatric Care Management

Home Care Aide Services


Keep Learning at WHISTLESTOPCOMPUTER/PICTURE CLASSBeginning: 2nd Friday • 2 to 4pmAdvanced: 3rd Friday • 2 to 4pmFee: $15 | Instructor: Gene DyerRegistration required: 459-6700Call for more information and class descriptions.

BEGINNING COMPUTERS FOR ADULTS LEVEL ITuesdays, April 10 - May 15 • 10 to NoonInstructor: Mike Kress | Fee: $60/ 6-week coursePre-registration required: 459-6700 Requirement: Windows-based computerThis is a hands-on course that will provide you with the basic skills needed to use your Windows-based personal computer. It is designed for fi rst-time computer users. In this class, 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 documents, identify the basic parts of a computer and their use, and search the Internet to fi nd information. Laptop users are welcome to bring their computer to class.

DROP-IN COMPUTER LAB Mondays, 10 to Noon & Wednesdays • 10 to 2pmNeed help using a computer? We have volunteer computer tutors available to work with you one-on-one, if needed.

FREE BLOOD PRESSURE CLINIC & MEDICATION CHECKSTuesdays, April 10 & 17 • 1 to 2pmFacilitators: Student nurses from Dominican UniversityBring all of your medications and supplements to fi nd out how and when to take them, how to store

them, possible side effects or interactions with other drugs. Don’t miss this opportunity to prevent health problems by keeping your blood pressure and meds in check.

RESTORE & IMPROVE YOUR BALANCE TRAINING CLASSTuesdays & Thursdays, April 10 - May 32:30 to 3:30pmInstructor: Thomas Attardi, BS, MA, NMTFee: $75 for 8-week courseRegistration required: 456-9062In the Balance Class, you will learn how balance works, why your balance may be deteriorating, and how you can safely implement simple exercises to train your balance. You will learn the best exercises for stronger legs to prevent falls and safeguard your risks of injury. We will also cover what to do if we fall. Bring a water bottle and 1-pound or 2-pound weights to class.

POINTS OF LIFE PRESENTATIONThursday, April 12, 4 to 5:30pmReservations required: 456-9062www.pointsofl ife.orgLife is not a problem to be solved but an adventure to be lived. In these funny and informative vignettes, The Elder Ed Players discuss the complexities of a changing society. Their expert panelists will then address legal issues, fi nancial matters, care, cost of care, family communication, family life planning and many other issues.Scene One: Help! My Hair is on Fire!Scene Two: Denial is Not a River in EgyptScene Three: Pushing Up the Daisies

AARP DRIVER SAFETY PROGRAMSaturdays, April 21 & 28 • 9 to 1pmPre-registration and prepayment required: 456-6700Fee: $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 certifi cate of completion will be given, which may save you money on auto insurance. You must attend both sessions in order to get credit for completing the course.

COMMISSION ON AGING

Thursday, April 12 • 10:00-12:30 pmWhere: Picklewood Community Center,

50 Canal St., San RafaelTopic: Public Hearing

Presenters: Nick Trunzo, Division of Againg & Adult Service

Next Meeting: May 10 • 9 am at Embassy Suites, San Rafael

whistlestop.org 9

FREE LEGAL CONSULTATION FOR OLDER ADULTSBy Appointment on ThursdaysMust be 60 or older and Marin County residents.Schedule an appointment: 459-6700Legal Aid of Marin provides a free 30-minute legal consultation. Marin lawyer, George John, a volunteer since 1986, explains, “We give general advice, give them options, explain their rights, and if appropriate, refer them to attorneys who have expertise in certain areas of law.”

JACKSON CAFÉ VOLUNTEERS NEEDEDWhistlestop is looking for volunteers to work in the Jackson Café at least one day a week from 11am to 2:15pm. Whistlestop’s Jackson Café, located at the Active Aging Center, serves delicious and affordable lunchtime meals, Monday through Friday to diners of all ages. The Café features daily specials, deli sandwiches, soups, desserts, and fresh salads. The Jackson Café offers a comfortable setting where older adults and their family and friends can eat well and stay socially active. 456-9062 or [email protected].

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIESContact: Debbie at 456-9062 or [email protected]• Center Services • Board/Card Game Leader• Chiropractor • Zumba Instructor• Watercolors Instructor • Italian Social Group Leader• Portuguese Social Group Leader • Bi-lingual Computer Teacher

Marin Access Call Center: 454-0902Get Qualifi ed to Ride: 456-9062, [email protected] a Ride: 457-4630Volunteer Driver Program: 454-0969

Transportation Numbers

8th ANNUAL HEALTHY AGING SYMPOSIUMMaximizing Our Potential As We AgeThursday, May 10 • 9 to 1pmLocation: Embassy Suites Hotel, 101 McInnis Parkway, San RafaelKeynote Speaker: Joel Kramer, PsyDPresenters: Marin County Division of Aging & Adult Services and Marin County Commission on Aging Fee: $20 (includes lunch) Registration deadline: May 1Pre-registration required. No admission at the door and no refunds. For more information call 473-2980.

MAH JONGGWednesday • 10:30 to NoonFacilitator: Shirley EtemadfarDonations appreciatedRegistration required: 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. 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.

FILM CLUBFridays, , April 6th & 27th • 1:30 to 4pmDonations AppreciatedApril6: Invictus • April 27: Afghan StarIf you enjoy good fi lms, you’ll really enjoy this program. After viewing her selected fi lms for your enjoyment, Johanna Petersen will lead an interesting group discussion regarding themes and topics of these showings.

HEALTH INSURANCE COUNSELING & ADVOCACY PROGRAM (HICAP)4th TuesdaySchedule appointment: 800-434-0222Medicare can be complicated, but don’t let it complicate your life. Meet with a HICAP Counselor, who provides individual assistance with: Medicare, prescription drugs, Medicare Advantage (HMO), Medi-gap, Long Term Care Insurance, and billing & claims issues.

ROSS VALLEY SENIORSThursday, April 5 • 11amLunch: Noon to 12:45pm | reservations, 258-4669Fairfax Woman’s Club, corner of Park Road and School Street, FairfaxTopic: Collector's Road Show & TourNext Meeting: May 3, 11am at Bennett House, 53 Taylor St., Fairfax – Sea Turtle Rescue Story


Whistlestop ACTIVITIES This Month at Whistlestop TIME CLASS MISC. COST 9:00–2:00 PM Chair Massage Open $4/8min. 9:30–10:30 PM Lamas Qi Gong Open $3/class 10:00–11:00 AM AM Monday (Discussion) 457-0586 Free 10:00–NOON Computer Lab Open Free 11:00–12:30 PM German Social Group Open Free 11:10–NOON Movement & Music Open Free 2:00–4:00 PM ESL (Jan. 23-May 16, 2012) 457-8811 Free 4:00–5:30 PM Citizenship Class 454-0998 $25

9:15–10:15 AM Whistlesizers (Exercise) Open Free 10:45–11:45 AM Cardio Exercise Class Open Free 11:00–2:00 PM Manicurist Appt. Needed Free 1:00–3:00 PM Learn Spanish Open Free 2:00–3:30 PM English Conversation 454-0998 Free 2:30–3:30 PM Balance Class Open $10

9:15–10:15 AM Whistlesizers (Exercise) Open Free 10:00–NOON Knit!!! 457-0586 Free 11:00–NOON Latin Rhythm 454-0998 $2 2:00-3:30 PM English Conversation 454-0998 Free 2:00–4:00 PM Remembrance Writing Open $5 3:00–4:00 PM Basic English for 457-0586 Free Spanish Speakers

9:00–10:15 AM Tai Chi Qigong Sugg. Donation $10 9:00–2:00 PM Chair Massage Open $4/8min.10:00–11:30 AM Seniors' Circle (Support) Open Free 10:00–2:00 PM Computer Lab Open Free 10:30–11:45 AM Corazón Latino Open Free 10:30–NOON Mah Jongg Open Free 2:00–4:00 PM ESL (Jan. 23-May 16, 2012) 457-8811 Free 3:00–4:00 PM Basic English for 457-0586 Free Spanish Speakers

1:30–3:30 PM ACASA (Support/Training) Peer Counseling Free 1:30–3:30 PM Practice Spanish (Club) Open Free 1:30–4:00 PM Film Club Mar. 9 & 23 $2 2:00–4:00 PM Arts & Crafts w/Vicky Mar. 2 & 16 $3 3:00–4:00 PM Yoga with Kelly 456-9062 $3

MO

ND

AYS

TUES

DAY

STH

URS

DAY

SW

EDNE

SDAY

SFR

IDAY

S

The Caboose, Computer Lab, Board Room and Jackson Café are all located at Whistlestop’s Active Aging Center – 930 Tamalpais Ave., San Rafael.

LUNCH MENU60+ PRICES/ UNDER 60 PRICES

Main Entrée$4.50/$7.25 (+$1 for Seafood Entrées)

Sandwiches$4.25/$6.25

Soup du Jour$1.75/$2.25

Hamburger w/Fries$4.25/$5.25

Salads$2.50/$4.00

OTHER ITEMSTuna Salad Side $1.25Fresh Fruit $1.50Beverages $1.00Desserts $1.50

Monday-Friday 11:30am-2:00pmLocated in Whistlestop Active Aging Center

Jackson Café

whistlestop.org 11

The Bird's Side OF MARIN b y R I C H A R D P A V E K

PHOT

OS ©

RIC

HARD

PAV

EK

Preening MeansFlying Faster

When we think of preen-ing, we usually think of men or women vainly

beautifying themselves. Not so in the bird world. Preening – combing their feath-ers with their bills – is an essential activity for all birds and takes up a large part of their day. Before preening, birds fl uff their body feathers or spread their wing feathers, then dip their bills in waxy oil from the uropygial gland, usually located at the base of their tails. Preening smoothes the vanes of the feathers and arranges the tiny barbs on the edges to interlock correctly with the adjacent feathers; otherwise, there would be gaps in the wings and fl ying would be diffi cult.

Why use a waxy oil? When I was 17, I spent many hours happily waxing the wings of rac-ing aircraft, to make them fl y faster. Birds are no different – glossy wings fl y faster. In addi-tion, the waxy oil prevents the feathers from drying and wearing out faster and chemicals in the oil inhibit the growth of fungi and bac-teria in the feathers. Sometimes beautifying does come into play. A male Sandhill Crane, for example, will smear his feathers with reddish earth during mating season. Looking good for the ladies! Every weekend I email a special bird photo to Express readers. If you’d like something nice to look at amidst the junk in your inbox, ask me at [email protected]. ✦

Till next month,Richard


Love, Discipline, Mutual Respect is Recipe for Successb y J O H N B O W M A N

How does a woman raise eight children on her own and inspire them to all fi n-ish college and enjoy successful, happy

lives? For Encarnacion Rivero of San Rafael, it was a steady recipe of love, discipline and mutual respect. Encarnacion, 74, better known as “Chochoy,” moved from her native Venezuela fi ve years ago, although she had visited her children in the Bay Area and Florida many times over the past 20 years, says her daughter Marina Alfonso of San Rafael. Marina, who operates a daycare here, says her mother worked for years as a high school librarian to support her family. Her husband left early on, so the job of raising eight chil-dren, four girls and four boys, landed on her strong shoulders. How was she able to do it? “With lots of love, respect and discipline,” says Marina. “She never let her children be disrespectful to her.” Today all eight of those children are grown and have college degrees, and four of them have their own businesses. Chochoy helps Marina at the daycare. “She also goes to Whistlestop,” Marina says. “She loves it there. She is learning English. She is also studying to become a U.S. Citizen.” Does Chochoy fi nd time to do anything besides help at the daycare and go to Whistlestop? “She is a very smart, wise woman,” Marina says. “She likes to read, walk, solve Sudoku puzzles, and play Scrabble. She’s also adventurous and likes to go camping and canoeing. She loves going for long rides to different states.” ✦

Encarnacion “Chochoy” Rivero of San Rafael (in gray sweater, center) is surrounded by family members at a recent happy gathering.

8th Annual Healthy Aging Symposium

Thursday, May 109:00am-1:00pm

Embassy Suites Hotel101 McInnis Parkway, San Rafael

Keynote Speaker:Joel Kramer, PsyDDirector of Neuropsychology, UCSF Medical Center

The Marin County Division of Aging & Adult Services and The Marin County Commission on Aging Present

PartnersKaiser San Rafael Medical Center

Fee: (Includes Lunch)Registration Deadline: May st

Pre-Registration Required.No Admission at the Door. No Refunds.

Maximizing OurPotential As We Age

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL:415.473.2980

www.marincounty.org/aging

whistlestop.org 13

How to Save the Memories Without Keeping all the StuffB y J A N E L O T T

As a professional organizer, in every home I clear out, I fi nd boxes of mementos, letters and other papers. Most people I work with

protest when confronted with the suggestion of throwing away some of these things. “How will I remember?” they ask. It’s a valid question, for things are touchstones for memories. And in a life packed with so many lovely times, we often need reminders. So per-haps the question should be:

“How can I save the memories without keeping all this stuff?” One way is to make a photographic record of mementos, either yourself or with the help of a photographer. Check out Professional Photogra-phers of the Greater Bay Area (www.ppgba.org). Especially if you keep digital photos and have a program to add captions and notes, this method works well for saving memories. Another way to preserve memories is to cre-ate a scrapbook, saving bits and pieces of each tangible item — a dried fl ower from a bouquet, for example — and arranging them artisti-cally along with commentary. A scrap-booking professional (you can fi nd one at CreativeMem-ories.com) can help you create your unique books and even have them reproduced to share with family and friends. An even more personal way of sharing memo-ries is to make a video. Using the items as prompts, have family members talk about their memories, and record these interviews. To ensure that nothing gets lost, use a professional videog-rapher (fi nd one at PVNB.org). When the process is complete, choose one or two items to save and fi nd appropriate homes for the rest. Whether it’s your own memories you want to save or those of a loved one who has passed on, sometimes the most diffi cult part of the process is the decision-making. An experienced estate organizer can guide you (FindMyOrganizer.com offers referrals). ✦

A member of the Whistlestop board of directors, Jane Lott is a professional organizer for Silver Rain Estate Transition Services. She writes a blog on estate transitions at www.SilverRainETS.com.

415-884-4343 • www.HiredHandsHomecare.com

• 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

Call today for a complimentary Needs Assessment and Home Safety Evaluation

We Can Be Thereto Assist You!

Assessments are Performed by a Qualifi ed R.N.

415-499-1200

Visiting Angels® Can Help Share the Care


Grand MOMby AUDREY METTEL FIXMER

My Grands Are Great

It’s common knowledge that grandparent-hood is a well-earned reward for surviving parenthood. You get all of the benefi ts of

having an adorable child without the pain and responsibility. No pain of childbirth, no up-all-nights. No having to feed and clothe them. I entered that lofty stage of grandparenthood at age 40. I remember rushing to the hospital nurs-ery to see Jeff, my fi rst-born grand, and announc-ing to the nurse, “I’m the baby’s grandmother.” I was fully expecting her to look shocked, thinking, “Oh, no! You’re too young!” Instead, she asked, “Is this your fi rst?” So everybody talks about getting to have all the fun when the grandkids are little. You get to dress them up, love them up, fi ll ‘em up with sweets and then let their parents “put up” with the consequences. If they lived in the area, I would celebrate their birthdays by taking them out to lunch and shopping for a toy of their choice. I remember Hillary, at age 5, falling in love with a “Dydee Doll,” so she could feed her baby and then change her diaper when she wet. When her daddy came to retrieve Hillary I laughingly said, “Steve, you have another mouth to feed.” I maintain, however, that the best years unfold as we watch our grands grow into responsible adults. Seeing them through all of the important stages of their lives, the graduations, college and career choices, marriages, we realize that they become even greater with the years. That’s when they bring us even more drama and love than we could have imagined. Today only a few of my 18 grandchildren are nearby, but those who are far off in other states and foreign countries remain close to me through just a “click” on Facebook or email. They still make me feel loved. Just last night, for instance, that same Hillary made a 90-mile round trip after work to bring me a surprise gift she had made for me. It was a beautiful scrapbook to stir up happy memories of our trip to Luxembourg last September. Having a strong granddaughter with nursing experience as a companion made it possible for me to travel to Europe even at 83.✦

800-931-5769

of marin

SPECIALISTS IN GERIATRIC IN-HOME THERAPY AND WELLNESS

Jennifer Holland, PTLicensed Physical Therapist

CA Lic #10957

The Highest Standards of CareA private pay skilled

nursing facility offering the finest in long term care

Located in the beautiful hills of Tiburon

415.435.4554 www.MarinConvalescent.com

BUYING? SELLING? Please visit www.lotteandsarah.comor call us anytime for a free market analysis of your home. We would love to hear from you.

Lotte [email protected]

Sarah [email protected]

Pure Thai Acupressure

45 Camino Alto Suite 202 (2nd Floor) Mill Valley

In-Home Appointments Available upon Request.

Special Senior Discount

15% Off All Services

whistlestop.org 15

Word SEARCH B y P A U L G R U N E R

Salt Water Taffy CaperEasily Solved by 9-Year-Old

“Kids Say the Darndest Things” was one of the most popular radio and television shows for two different

generations, fi rst in the 1960s with Art Lin-kletter and then in the 1990s with Bill Cosby. Well, kids still say the darndest things. Just ask Ethel Seiderman, 80, of San Anselmo. One of her grandchildren, Noah, 9, who lives with his parents and brother near Melbourne, Australia, regularly amuses and amazes Ethel with his wit. “We email and call back and forth,” Ethel said. “So, one day Noah emails me and says, ‘Gran, you have to talk to your boy. He is misbehaving again.’” Ethel explained that “her boy” is her son, Seth, an accomplished artist. “So, I email back — what’s the misbehaving?” Noah reminds me that I had sent him a favorite treat of his — a bag of salt-water taffy from Bo-dega Bay. Noah said he had intended to eat the taffy, one piece at a time, so after he ate one, he deposited the rest in his closet. He said that he goes into his closet one night and fi nds only one piece left. The culprit, he is sure, was Seth.

Noah’s mother, Jenny, a popular English and literature teacher, was not considered a suspect. “So, I email Seth and say, ‘Your behavior is unacceptable; what do you have to say for yourself?’” said Ethel. “Seth emails back with ‘I was hungry.’ End of story.” Ethel decided that next time she will send four packages of salt-water taffy — to her two grandsons, her son and Jenny — each one clearly marked. She will write in indelible ink, “Only to be eaten by owner.” Ethel said that through all of these experiences Noah’s older brother, Ethan, repeatedly just “rolls his eyes.” With four grandsons — two others by her daughter, Abby and son-in-law Bill — Ethel one day will likely have enough stories to write her own book about the darndest things kids say. ✦

which helps local homeless transition back to work. That’s right, it is akin to eating at the Culinary Institute of America, as the students provide many of the menu ideas. Chef Rocky Packard has been on board at the café for just over a year (and serves on the board of Homeward Bound), and business has more than doubled since Rocky’s arrival. When you are only open for a 3½-hour lunch window, that’s no small feat. The menu is decidedly limited. On any given weekday, you can expect one main entrée, as well as a burger and a veggie burger, a chicken salad sandwich and a turkey sandwich, a gar-den and Caesar salad, pizza and a daily soup. That’s it. But if you do not mind that the sim-ple menu makes your ability to order a piece of cake (they have that, too), take a seat at one of the eight-top banquet tables, greet your table-mates, and voilà, your meal is served. ✦Excerpt from Marin Independent Journal.

< Continued from page 4


Marin Senior Coordinating Council

930 Tamalpais AvenueSan Rafael, CA 94901-3325

Whistlestop.org

To subscribe to Whistlestop Express, please send $10/yr in the enclosed envelope. Or send an email with your request, your name and address to [email protected]

E PRESSWhistlestop

LIKE US on FacebookTo Enter Monthly Drawing

Lifeline with AutoAlert® provides an added layer of protection by automatically placing a call for help if a fall is detected.

Helping you live more independently

Remarkably affordable with no long term contracts, no hidden costs, and no equipment to buy

www.lifelinenorthbay.com

For more information on the leading personal medical response service for more than 35-years call:

Support 24 hours a day, 365 days a year

Peace of mind for you and your family

2012Blue Door Conference Center

SEMINARS PRESENTED AT NO CHARGE

Presented by

RSVP to: [email protected] | Space is Limited – Register Today!

Speaker: Lenice Cally Smith, MBAHired Hands, Inc.

Speakers: J.R. Hastings, JD & Eliot Katz, President, In Defense of Animals

Speaker: Lenore O’Connor, CLU, ChFC Northwestern Mutual

Speaker: J.R. Hastings, JD Location: Redwood High School

Speakers: J.R. Hastings, JD & Charles Stuckey, CPA

whistlestop express april 2012

Documents