E PRESSThe Leading Information Resource for Marin's Active Aging MovementDECEMBER 2011 Whistlestop.org

Whistlestop

Rocky Packard'sEdamame Succotashpage 4

The Bird'sSide of Marinpage 11

San RafaelCeramistpage 12

Members chat during the Persian Social Group gathering at Whistlestop’s Active Aging Center. The generosity of Marin County donors contributes to this and countless other social activities at the center.

If you stop by Whistlestop, you might see Lucille in a yoga class, the Mystery

Book Club, or learning about fi nancial planning. But most of the time you’ll fi nd her in our computer lab practicing what she learned in our Face-book class by connecting with her grandchildren, friends and former students. When Lucille, a retired teacher, lost her husband a few years ago, her son, Sam, worried that her health would decline if she became lonely at home. Sam found Whistlestop and now Lucille comes to Jackson Café for meals, and is part of the vibrant community at the Active Aging Center. Together, you and I can sup-port Marin’s growing popula-tion of older adults and people with disabilities by making a gift today. Every day, Whistlestop pro-vides transportation, meals and classes to older adults and people with disabilities to

help them thrive and stay con-nected to one another. No other organization provides the comprehen-sive, integrated hub of vital services that they need. Yet we can’t do it alone. We share the responsibility to help our older relatives and neighbors live active, engaged lives for as long as possible. Today, Whistlestop’s services are more critical than ever. Marin County is the fastest aging county in California, with 1 in 4 residents over the age of 60. You may not realize that even in affl uent Marin, an increasing number of older adults lack good nutrition and struggle to make ends meet.Here’s how your gift can help:We serve 17,000 weekday lunches a year and charge only $4.50 a meal to older adults. Your donation will make up the difference in food costs. Transportation is a big part

Everyone Deserves to Age with Dignity, Independence and Grace b y D E N N I S T H O M P S O N , P r e s i d e n t , B o a r d o f D i r e c t o r s

of what we do, but government funding doesn’t cover our an-nual costs. Wouldn’t you like your grandmother, especially if she is frail, to have door to door service and a driver who will make sure she gets home safely? With your support, we can expand our per-sonal ride service to more older adults who need us. Help us make Marin Coun-ty a viable, supportive place for people to age with dignity and grace. ✦

Whistlestop Express DECEMBER 20112

Ge n e r o s i t y , the theme of this month’s

Whistlestop Express, shows up in many forms. For Jean Har-rison, 70, of Green-brae, giving back is the way she express-es gratitude for all that the Active Ag-ing Center has done for her and her late husband, Robie, who died in 2009, after 45 years of marriage. Folks who eat regularly at the Jackson Café know Jean for her friendly smile and voice and the smooth way she handles cashier duties at the Jackson Café. She also some-times helps to set up tables and serve lunches. She has been volunteering at Whis-tlestop for nine years. She says in her melodic voice, that she really appreciates Whis-tlestop because, “For a lot of older people, the only interac-tion they get with others is when they come here.” The Texas twang comes from her 38 years in Houston, although originally Jean comes from Virginia. She recently talked about her husband and what Whistlestop meant to him: “There was this man, in his early 80s, who began com-ing to Whistlestop in 2002. He had just been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and his doctor told his fami-

ly that he needed to get out and meet other peo-ple. This man was my husband, Robie Nelson Harrison. He started coming in every day for lunch, making friends with everyone, singing songs, telling naughty jokes, sweet-talking the ladies. He contin-

ued coming to Whistlestop un-til 2008. He died in 2009 at the age of 90. His doctors fi rmly believed that Whistlestop had a lot to do with his making it to that age. His disease had not progressed all that much and the daily interactions, movement/exercise and nutri-tious meals helped to extend his life. “After Robie died, I real-ized what a big part of his and my life Whistlestop had been. I am truly grate-ful that we found Whis-tlestop when we fi rst moved to California. It has been, and continues to be, a great resource. I have been a vol-unteer here for nine years because I believe in what the

organization is doing.” Besides working in the Café, Jean also has helped with other activities, such as decorating for special events and luncheons. Her favorite job is serv-ing food and talk-ing with people. “It makes me feel good to interact with them.” ✦

Whistlestop PERSPECTIVE by JOHN BOWMAN

Table ofCONTENTS

From Rocky's PantryRocky Packard

Gratitude Important

Photo Contest Reception

Tea Dance Photos

Whistlestop Classes

Activities Calendar

The Bird's Side of MarinRichard Pavek

Marin Ceramist

Board Member ColumnKaren Arnold

Grand MomAudrey Mettel Fixmer

WordSearch PuzzlePaul Gruner

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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 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 • resource@whistlestop.orgWhistlestop Express Editorial, Art Direction & SalesJohn & Val Bowman Editors916-751-9189 • john.bowman58@gmail.comMissy 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 INFO@whistlestop.org.

Subscriptions mailed to your home are $10/year.

LIKE US on Facebook

‘His doctors fi rmly believed that Whistlestop had a lot to do with his making it to that age.’

Volunteer Gives Out of Gratitude

whistlestop.org 3

Rediscover AlmaVia of San Rafael.Our assisted living services offer our loved ones

just the right balance of independence, stimulating activities, large apartments and personal care.

Call today to schedule a free lunch and tour!

AlmaVia of San Rafael, an Elder Care Alliance community is cosponsored by the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas West Midwest Community & the Sierra Pacific Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. RCFE Lic # 216801868.

www.almaviaofsanrafael.org

415.233.6095

Discover the Difference.

515 Northgate DriveSan Rafael, CA 94903

www.grief-to-healing.com

There’s been a lot of talk lately about how drugs are being used to cope with chal-lenging behaviors in elders as the fi rst

resort. Instead of investigating the reasons for diffi cult behaviors and trying non-drug interven-tions fi rst, a patient or resident is likely to receive some type of anti-psychotic medication. Elder patients are at risk for more serious side effects including death as a result of these drugs. As family members, discovering the reasons for a behavior change can be our most important guessing game. Here are some tips to guess with success: Start with the perspective that you will try multiple interventions outside of medication be-fore going with a drug. If your family member is already receiving medications to address diffi cult behavior, still seek physical and environmental causes and interventions with the hope that the drugs can be removed or reduced.

1. If your family member works with outside caregivers, enlist their help or support. What has changed in your family member’s environ-ment? Have they observed your family member grimacing or favoring a part of their body? Have they noticed that the bad behavior is related to a certain activity or time of day?

2. Check the physical basics. Does your family member have any wounds or sores that could be causing discomfort? Don’t forget to check or ask them about their teeth and mouth.

3. More physical basics: could they be consti-pated or having other digestive issues?

4. Has anything about their current prescrip-tions been changed recently? I attended an edu-cational program recently and a doctor who was lecturing about prescription drugs and seniors said, “Assume any change is a side effect of a recently prescribed drug.”

5. When was the last time your family member went to the doctor?

6. What has changed in your family member’s environment? Is there a new caregiver?

7. What changes might you make to the envi-ronment or routine that might make a positive difference. ✦

The most important guessing game you’ll ever playB y J A N I C E WA L L AC E, t h e E l d e r c a r e Co a c h

Post-Radiation Damage Non-Healing Bones Crush Injuries/Trauma

Non-Healing Wounds Chronic Infections Diabetic Ulcers

Burns Skin Graft Issues And More!

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

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ALSO BENEFITED Stroke Head Injuries Chronic Lyme Disease MS/CFS Brain Function

GIVE THE GIFTOF HOPE

We are seeking grants and donations to supplement the cost

of HBOT for those who can’t afford it.

HBOT has a proven track record of aiding people suffering from conditions that are

extremely diffi cult to treat by conventional methods alone. In the last year we have

provided supplementation for HBOT treatment to eighteen individuals.

Tristan needs your help.H.O.P.E. is a Non-Profi t 501(c)(3)

Whistlestop Express DECEMBER 20114

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

Jackson Café Edamame Succotash

Edamame is a rich source of protein and a great substitute for those who do not like lima beans. This dish is great hot

or cold as a side dish for fi sh or chicken. Servings: 6 1 lb Fresh corn, removed from the cob 2 tbs Olive oil 1/2 cup Red onions, diced 1/4 Red bell pepper, cut into medium dice 1/4 lb Edamame/soy beans 1/8 pint Cherry tomatoes, washed and cut in half 2 tbs Parsley, chopped 1 tbs Fresh thyme, chopped Salt and pepper, to taste

Place the edamame/soy beans in a steamer pan and steam for 5 minutes; rinse with cold water. Heat the olive oil until hot, then add the onions, sautéing until soft with a little bit of

Pure Thai Acupressure

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In-Home Appointments Available upon Request.

Special Senior Discount

15% Off All Services

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IN YOUR HOME

FAMILIES - YOU CHOOSE YOUR CAREGIVERFree In-Home Assessment

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Serving Marin, Sonoma and Napa Counties

WE BILL INSURANCE ON YOUR BEHALF

CALL TODAY & RECEIVE A FREE HOUR OF CARE

Medication reminders / Personal Care Assistance

Errands / Shopping / Meal preparation

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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

Caregivers May Qualify for Family And Medical Leave Act

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) is a federal law that provides eligible employees up to 12 weeks of

unpaid, job-protected leave per year. Under FMLA, group health benefi ts must be main-tained during such leave. FMLA includes parents (but not grandpar-ents) as qualifying family if there is a serious medical condition. Federal law notwithstand-ing, some workers perceive pushback from employers on eldercare leave requests. Before having to use FMLA, understand it as much as possible. There are many employee legal protections, rights and worker leave benefi ts where available or applicable. Eligibility under FMLA requires the worker to have been employed by the employer at least 12 months, and, a minimum of 1,250 hours over the past 12 months at a location where the company employs 50+ employees within 75 miles. For more information, call Mary Lou Blount, principal with In Your Home Care For Life, 415-895-5185. ✦

color. Then add the bell peppers, continuing to sauté a few minutes until soft. Add the cherry tomatoes, edamame and corn. Sauté a few ad-ditional minutes just to heat through. Combine all the ingredients, mixing well, and add salt and pepper to taste. ✦

whistlestop.org 5

Neuroscience Shows Gratitude Makes Us Healthierb y O C E A N R O B B I N S

Negative attitudes are bad for you. And gratitude, it turns out, makes you hap-pier and healthier. If you invest in a way

of seeing the world that is mean and frustrated, you’re going to get a world that is, well, more mean and frustrating. But if you can fi nd any authentic reason to give thanks, anything that is going right with the world or your life, and put your attention there, then statistics say you’re go-ing to be better off. Does this mean to live in a state of constant denial and put your head in the sand? Of course not. Gratitude works when you’re grateful for something real. Feeling euphoric and spending money like you just won the lottery when you didn’t is probably going to make you real poor, real quick. But what are you actually grateful for? It’s a question that could change your life.Recent studies have concluded that the expres-sion of gratitude can have profound and positive effects on our health, our moods and even the survival of our marriages. In one study on gratitude, conducted by Robert A. Emmons, Ph.D., at the University of California at Davis and his colleague Mike Mc-Cullough at the University of Miami, randomly assigned participants were given one of three tasks. Each week, participants kept a short journal. One group briefl y described fi ve things they were grateful for that had occurred in the past week; another group recorded fi ve daily hassles from the previous week that displeased them, and the neutral group was asked to list fi ve events or circumstances that affected them, but they were not told whether to focus on the positive or on the negative. Ten weeks later, participants in the gratitude group felt better about their lives as a whole and were a full 25 percent happier than the hassled group. They reported fewer health complaints, and exercised an average of 1.5 hours more.

1) Keep a daily journal of three things you are thankful for. This works well fi rst thing in the morning, or just before you go to bed.2) Make it a practice to tell a spouse, partner

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A sample of our services:

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

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

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

continued on page 6 >

Whistlestop Express DECEMBER 20116

< Neuroscience continued from page 5

Thank You!

for sponsoring our third annualPhotography Contest and doingsomething good for older adults!

George Cunha’s Cheetah: Best in Show

Whistlestop CEO Joe O'Hehir, left, and George Cunha, with Cunha's Best of Show photograph. Cunha was among winners of the Whistlestop Photo Contest, who were recently honored.

HEALTH CARE CONNECTION

415 4572256www.HealthCareConnectionLLC.com

or friend something you appreciate about them every day.3) Look in the mirror when you are brushing your teeth, and think about something you have done well recently or something you like about yourself.

Ocean Robbins is an author, speaker, facilita-tor, movement builder and father. To learn more about his work or to get a free copy of his mini-book The Power of Partnership, visit www.ocean-robbins.com. ✦

Whistlestop Photo Contest Winners Honored

Whistlestop recently hosted a reception for winners of its third annual photo contest

for Marin County residents 60 years of age and older. Best of Show winner George Cunha, 85, of San Rafael, spoke briefl y about his winning photo of a cheetah. He said the animal, which is endan-gered, is quite vulnerable to larger cats – lions and tigers. Contest judges Marilyn Bagshaw and Terry Scussel spoke about the quality of the entries, which, they said, was outstanding. Marin Filmworks co-sponsored the event with Whistlestop. ✦

whistlestop.org 7

WordSEARCH ANSWERS

WhistlestopTEA DANCE

N I W Y R E T T O L E S N I TO E N I W D E L L U M R O E SS P A R E T I M E U E N K L TU R A G Y K B I L E E C I P NS E T R O A A P H O I G F W IL S E X B O R C T T H S A Y CL E E I S A D E T T O X M E KE N R E G U L H S I N G I N GB T T U R T G E U T U C L O PH S S J S I S A D G Q R Y M AG M A I L W F A R N U L F E RI D M F P L G Y N H A O U R TE R X M A S L I S T A C N O IL H C N U P M U R O A M U M ES E K A L F W O N S C A R D S

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

Nila Castrillo, Hilda Dastelume and Cecilia Avila

Eluvia Aragon

2011-2012

RSVP to: jrseminar@att.net | Space is Limited – Register Today!

Blue Door Conference Center

SEMINARS PRESENTED AT NO CHARGE

Presented by

Planned and Unplanned Speaker: Dennis Ford, EA

Speaker: J.R. Hastings, JD

Speaker: Luke Boncore, Keaton’s Mortuary

Speaker: J.R. Hastings, JD

-

Exact Date Reserved by Each Client. Speaker: J.R. Hastings, JD

Speaker: J.R. Hastings, JD

Our tea dances continue to be very popular. Ms. Aragon, aka Little Red Riding Hood pictured below, won the

best costume at our Halloween-themed dance.

Whistlestop Express DECEMBER 20118

Keep Learning at WHISTLESTOPBEGINNING COMPUTERS FOR ADULTS LEVEL IThursdays, January 19 - February 23 • 10 to NoonInstructor: Ed EssickFee: $10 off New Years Special...6-week course for $50

Pre-registration required: 459-6700 Requirement: have a Windows-based computer.This 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 a document, 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 computers to class.

COMPUTER/PICTURE CLASSBeginning: 2nd Friday, 2 to 4pmAdvanced: 3rd Friday, 2 to 4pmComputer Room | Fee: $15Instructor: Gene Dyer | Registration required: 459-6700Call for more information and class descriptions.

COMPUTER LAB DROP-IN CLASSMondays, 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.

HOLIDAY LUNCHEONWednesday, December 7 • 11:30 to 2pmCost: $7 for 60+/$10 under 60Please join us for a delicious meal and live entertainment by the Christmas Jug Band! Menu: Ham with candied yams, baby green beans & wax beans, chocolate three nut tart, and eggnog. Entertainment provided by Bread & Roses.

AARP DRIVER SAFETY RENEWAL COURSESaturday, January 7 • 8:30 to 1pmFee: $12/AARP members and $14/non-members | Pre-Registration Required: 459-6700This course is for drivers who have taken the eight-hour driver safety course within the last four years or who have taken a renewal class within the last four years to maintain their insurance discount. At the end of this course, a certifi cate of completion will be given.

MARIN COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY’S VICTIM-WITNESS PROGRAM1st & 4th Thursday • 9 to NoonIf you or someone you know have either been a victim of a crime or have witnessed a crime, Yolanda Johnson, advocate from the District Attorney’s offi ce, will be available to meet with you to answer questions, provide information and connect you to resources.

WATERCOLORS WITH HILDAThursdays • 10amDonations appreciated.Join us for this fun art program! Learn to make beautiful art using watercolor paints. Come explore your world

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whistlestop.org 9

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIESContact: Debbie at 456-9062 or programs@whistlestop.org

Jackson Café volunteers, at least one day a • week from 11 to 2:15pm

Front Desk/Center Host(ess)• Board or Card Game Leader• Resource Offi ce, computer experience • required

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) • Program, help older adults and low income families with their Federal and State Income Tax returns. Training is in January and tax preparation season is February – April.

Marin Access Call Center: 454-0902Get Qualifi ed to Ride: 456-9062, x160eligibility@whistlestop.orgCancel a Ride: 457-4630Volunteer Driver Program: 454-0969

Transportation Numbers

from a whole new vantage point. You may even reacquaint yourself with your inner child! All levels are welcome, and no experience is necessary.

REMEMBRANCE WRITING 101 WORKSHOPThe Easy Way to Write and Share the Stories of Your LifeThursdays • 2 to 4pmFacilitator: Claudia Carroll, writer of plays, songs, poetry, and

reporter for community newspapers. | Fee: $5 YOU have a story to tell because you have LIVED LIFE! Share your remembrance stories with others in the workshop, then with friends and family. Write about your grandparents, parents, brothers and sisters, your school chums and even your pets! Write about your hopes and dreams that came true, and the ones you are still dreaming up! All you need is a notebook with lined paper (a three-hole notebook with lined paper and divider inserts is best) and pens or pencils. The sessions will be on-going, so come every week, or drop in whenever you can.

ART PROJECT1st Friday • 11 to 12:30pm456-9062Learn how to create different types of art projects with artist Celeste Parcell.January 6: Beading

COMING SOON IN JANUARY 2012!Hearing Screenings• Lip Reading & Listening Skills Class• Facebook Computer Class•

IN-KIND DONATIONS NEEDEDMah Jongg sets, decks of cards, books and yarn If you have items to donate: 456-9062.

JACKSON CAFÉ VOLUNTEERS NEEDEDWhistlestop is looking for volunteers to work in the Jackson Cafe 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 programs@whistlestop.org.

COMMISSION ON AGING

Thursday, December 8 • 10:00-12:30 pmWhere: The Redwoods, 40 Camino Alto Mill ValleyTopic: New Research in Parkinson's DiseaseNext Meeting: January 12, 2012 • 10 am at Pickleweed

Your One-Call / One-Click Transportation Resource:

(415) 454-0902 www.MarinAccess.org

Independence Through Mobility

Whistlestop Express DECEMBER 201110

Whistlestop ACTIVITIES This Month at Whistlestop TIME CLASS MISC. COST 10:00–11:00 AM AM Monday (Discussion) 457-0586 Free 11:00–12:30 PM German Social Group Open Free 11:10–NOON Movement & Music Open Free 2:00–4:00 PM ESL 457-8811 Free 4:00–5:30 PM Citizenship Class 454-0998 Free

9:15–10:15 AM Whistlesizers (Exercise) Open $2 10:00–2:00 PM Asian Social Group 454-1552 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 2:00–3:00 PM ESL Vietnamese 454-1552 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 $2 9:30–11:00 AM Chiropractic Services Open $5 10:00–NOON PM Knit!!! 457-0586 Free 10:00–2:00 PM Asian Social Group 454-1552 Free 10:30–NOON Watercolors with Hilda Open Free 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 10:30–NOON Mah Jongg Open Free 10:00–2:00 PM Computer Lab Open Free 10:30–11:45 AM Corazón Latino Open Free 2:00–4:00 PM ESL 457-8811 Free 3:00–4:00 PM Basic English for 457-0586 Free Spanish Speakers

9:00–2:00 PM Chair Massage Open $4/8min. 11:00–1:00 PM WS Knitters 1st Fri. Arts & Crafts Free 1:30–3:30 PM ACASA (Support/Training) Peer Counseling Free 1:30–3:30 PM Practice Spanish (Club) Open Free 2:00–4:00 PM Friday Movie Dec. 2 & 23 $2 2:00–4:00 PM Arts & Crafts w/Vicky Dec. 9 & 16 $3 3:00–4:00 PM Yoga with Kelly 456-9062 $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.

LUNCH MENU60+ PRICES/ UNDER 60 PRICES

Main Entrée$4.50/$7.25

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 SideOF MARIN b y R I C H A R D P A V E K

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GPS for Gannets

Worried about your teen-age grandchildren off traveling the world

alone? Just consider the juvenile Australasian Gannets of Mu-

rawai, New Zealand. A few weeks after their fi rst fl ight, the young white-speckled black Gannets take off from their crowded nesting site and fl y 1,200 miles across the glistening Tasman Sea to a rich feeding ground, 30 miles out from Sydney Harbor, Australia — without a guide or guide-book. There are no islands or shorelines to follow, just 1,200 miles of rolling sea. Some authorities say genetic programming or instinct is at work, a sort of GPS for Gannets. Personally, I think Mom and Dad regale their kids with tales of far off wondrous shoals with lots to eat, just to get them out of the crowded nesting site — so they can get to necking and

start another egg! (Gannets are great neckers, but only one egg at a time.) After four or fi ve years, their travel bug satis-fi ed, the mature young Gannets fl y home in their fi ne new coats to re-join their parents, fi nd mates, and lay a single egg to rear into their very own little explorer. They will stay on the Murawai cliffs for the rest of their lives, regaling their chicks with stories of wondrous shoals with much to eat, far to the west, far across the glistening seas with the great rolling waves. It works, every time! Every weekend, I email an interesting bird photo to Express readers. If you’d like something nice to look at in your Inbox, email me atSHENmaker@MSN.com. ✦

Till next month, Richard

Gathering fl ock

Mom and Dad “necking”

Whistlestop Express DECEMBER 201112

San Rafael ceramist Daphne Ahlenius, now 80, was a member of the Judy Chicago team that produced the famous “Dinner

Party” project in the ‘70s. Daphne created the Su-san B. Anthony, Natalie Barney, Virginia Wolff and Georgia O’Keeffe three-dimensional plates. She says there was a strong sense of mission with the project. “Many dozens of women came from all over the U.S. to contribute their time and skills, especially in needle-work, weaving and historical research,” Daphne said. “It was stimulating to work on a creation that was much big-ger than oneself.” Today she continues to work out of her home studio and has several pieces for sale at the upscale Post Ranch Inn at Big Sur. “I also have some private or-ders,” she said. Currently she is work-

B Y V A L B O W M A N

Hand-Made Pottery: IntimateExpressions of the Culture

ing on mugs, bowls and vases. “It’s all functional work; I like that people use them.” Daphne was drawn to Marin County from England in 1963 to work at Heath Ceramics in Sausalito. She was urged by a painter on sab-batical in England to go there, and she was hired by Edith Heath, who even opened up an apart-ment on her Tiburon barge home to Daphne and her husband. She sharpened her technical skills under Edith’s teaching, and her plates, mugs and bowls are still in demand.

“Working with clay on the wheel is always my starting point and source of renewal. The greatest satisfaction is knowing that tomorrow I can make more pots and explore new possibili-ties of this craft. I am honored to work in a tradition that goes back to pre-history, when women made the cook-ing pots, the storage jars and also the sacred vessels, intimate expressions of the culture.” Daphne began her work with Heath Ceramics as a production pot-ter. She produced an array of func-tional pieces with intense blue and purple glaze fi nishes. She experi-

mented with glazes to eliminate the lead. Her work in glaze technique led to the development of a line of glazes with non-toxic materials for use in schools. She is passionate about the use of art in the education of young children. She also developed a series of glazes for hobby potters in the mid-temperature range. She pre-fers not to send her pieces away to other parts of the country. She feels there is always a place for local potters and for pride in them and their work. She has been a member of Artisans Gal-lery in Mill Valley since 1981, and it has been a principal showcase for her work. ✦

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Daphne Ahlenius in her studio.

whistlestop.org 13

Same Old New Year’s Resolution? It’s Your Chance to Shine!

b y K A R E N A R N O L D

Are you one of the millions of Americans who makes a New Year’s Resolution — to lose weight, exercise

more or quit smoking — and then by January 15th, you are beating yourself up for falling short? This year, try this: make sure your goals are enjoyable, interesting, and convenient so it will be easy to make them part of your routine. Did you know you can achieve enormous physical and mental health benefi ts from volunteer-ing? People who volunteer live longer, have greater functional ability and lower rates of depres-sion. Volunteers enjoy a personal sense of accomplishment, purpose and greater satisfaction with life. Studies have shown signifi cant health benefi ts with only one to two hours a week. Interestingly, these health ben-efi ts are the greatest with people over 65. As a community volunteer and Whistlestop board member, I believe we share a responsi-bility to ensure that people in Marin age with grace, dignity and independence. Everyday, Whistlestop connects older adults and people with disabilities with a hub of essential ser-vices, such as transportation, delicious meals, classes and social programs to help keep our community engaged, vibrant and active. Why not make a New Year’s Resolution to become involved with Whistlestop? This great organization is successful, not only because of our many talented staff, but also because of our dedi-cated and valuable volunteers. You could teach a class, organize one of our fun activities, staff the welcome desk or help serve meals in the Café. We will work with you to fi nd the best fi t, something convenient and rewarding. To get started, contact Debbie at 456-9062 or programs@whistlestop.org. If you are too busy with work and family to volunteer, you can support Whistlestop with a fi nancial donation. Whistlestop receives some

government support for our transportation pro-grams, and 4-5% of our funds are from grants, but the rest of our funding is from our donors. Check out our website at www.whistlestop.org for a simple way to make a contribution. Also, if you work for the county, state or a federal agen-cy, add Whistlestop to your Combined Federal Campaign pledge, (organization code #40150). Or consider making a legacy gift to secure

Whistlestop services for future generations. Marin is the fastest aging county in California, with one out of four residents over 60. This demonstrates not only the acute need for our ser-vices, but also means we have a large pool of talented social capital ripe for civic engage-ment and fi nancial support. I hope you will join me in sup-porting this wonderful com-munity resource. ✦

Karen Arnold is a Whistletop Board member.

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Whistlestop Express DECEMBER 201114

was another story. Even with the help of the Luxembourg American Cultural Society, I couldn’t get back further than his grandfather, John, who emigrated in 1890. I needed to get to that church in Bech, Luxembourg, to fi nd more in their records. Would Hillary be willing to be my travel companion? Are you kidding? I invited her last spring, and she was so excited that she put in as much overtime as she could get in her waitress job to save up her own spending money. I knew we would be expected to do a good deal of walking, and I tried to get myself in shape before the trip by walking (usually behind a cart in grocery or department stores, but that can get expensive). I visited my doc-tor and got the requisite shots, and told her my concern about the parts of the tour when we would have to stand and listen to a lecture. My back gives me trouble when I stand more than a minute or two. She suggested a trans-fer chair, which I can push like a cart when I want to walk and sit in when I need to. What nobody told me was that all of the cobblestone streets we walked were on hills. Good thing I didn’t know in advance. I might have backed out and missed the trip of a life-time. I could not have done it without Hillary. She was my Memory: “Grandma, I think you put your pill in that pocket,” my Baggage Car-rier: “Let me take that for you!” my Secretary: “You go to bed, Grandma, I’ll write that blog for the family tonight,” and my Nurse: “Don’t worry, I’ll get your leg bandaged as soon as we can stop the bleeding.”Next month: the Moselle River cruise, and fi nding Great Grandpa and Grandma in the family plot. ✦

Grand MOMby AUDREY METTEL FIXMER

Grand Mom Never Too Old to Travel

First of Two Parts

I recently returned from a Luxembourg tour, something I would have considered impossible just a couple of years ago. Then

one day, I was discussing with my 26-year-old granddaughter, Hillary, her trouble deciding on a career. I asked her what kind of work would make her happy and she replied, “Being a travel companion for elderly people!” I thought about her years of working as a CNA in nursing homes. That, plus her bubbly personality and travel experience, made me think she’d be the perfect companion for a trip to Luxembourg. Both sides of my family, as well as my hus-band’s, are pure Luxembourg/German. I joined Ancestry.com and had no trouble digging four or fi ve generations back in my family, but Bob’s

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whistlestop.org 15

WordSEARCH B y P A U L G R U N E R

Easy Ways to Support Whistlestop

Answers on page 7

N I W Y R E T T O L E S N I TO E N I W D E L L U M R O E SS P A R E T I M E U E N K L TU R A G Y K B I L E E C I P NS E T R O A A P H O I G F W IL S E X B O R C T T H S A Y CL E E I S A D E T T O X M E KE N R E G U L H S I N G I N GB T T U R T G E U T U C L O PH S S J S I S A D G Q R Y M AG M A I L W F A R N U L F E RI D M F P L G Y N H A O U R TE R X M A S L I S T A C N O IL H C N U P M U R O A M U M ES E K A L F W O N S C A R D S

XMAS TREE LOTTERY SUGAR PLUMSMISTLETOE WIN SINGINGCOSY FIRE FLIGHT TICKET CHEERFAMILY FUN RUM PUNCH XMAS LISTSANTA PARTIES PRESENTSSUGARHAM CANDELABRA SPARE TIMETINSEL MULLED WINE MORE MONEYLIGHTS FRUITCAKE A GOOD HUGSLEIGH BELLS SNOWFLAKES A RESTCARDS ST NICK

“Anything worth doing is going to be diffi -cult,” says Fauja Singh, the 100-year-old runner who recently became the world’s

oldest person to complete a full-length mara-thon, crossing the line at the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront event in eight hours, 25 minutes and 16 seconds. (And he didn’t fi nish last: fi ve came in after him.) At fi ve-foot-eight and weighing a little more than eight stone (about 112 pounds), Singh is a spindly fi gure under his heavy turban and wispy beard. “I was so worried we might not make it that we didn’t tell our relatives we were doing it. (He runs with his trainer.) I just wanted to break that bloody record.” He is referring to the record set in 1976 by a 98-year-old Greek athlete. “I lost my speed in this race,” says Singh, “but it was the thought of that old man that pushed me through the last four miles. That and God.” Speaking in Punjabi, Singh says running has given him purpose and a sense of peace. “Why worry about these small, small things? I don’t stress. You never hear of anyone dying of happiness.” He took up serious running when he was 89 and says it was his good kismet (destiny) that led him to meeting ex-professional runner Harman-der Singh, his trainer and friend. Harmander says tests taken last year showed that Singh “has the bones of a 35-year-old.” Singh claims never to drink milk. “I’m scared of building up phlegm.” The rest of his diet? “I just eat the minimum of what I need: some daal and roti, gobi and chai – I’d probably be dead if I was full all the time.”(From dailygood.org) ✦

The 100-Year-Old Marathon Man

My Broker Donates – can make sure your next property sale can boost the quality of life for Marin’s older adults. My Broker Donates connects you with the best-in-market realtors who will donate 15% of their referral fee to Whis-tlestop. 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 its search engine, Whistlestop gets a donation! GoodSearch is a search engine which do-nates 50-percent of its revenue to the charities and schools designated by its users. It’s a simple and compelling con-cept. 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! ✦

Whistlestop Express DECEMBER 201116

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