Aging Well March 3rd 2015

Technology is constantly changing and as most of us would agree - much too fast. But the upside is that the technology will become more intuitive and responsive. And with the boomer bubble moving through the snake, businesses are taking notice. There will be an increasing focus on hi-tech products for older adults that offer enhanced safety and convenience, while also allowing greater independence.

Some of the new technologies include wireless bone conduction headphones, Bluetooth speech enhancement devices, new technology enabled in-home care systems, and fashionable wrist watches that provide medication reminders, count your steps, can be activated in an emergency, and can wash the dishes. (Okay maybe not that last one - at least not yet.) And who knows, we may live long enough to see driverless cars.

But enough of this staring in the crystal ball. How do I get my email to work or download the pictures of my grandkids? Or how do I get started with my new iPad or laptop that my children gave me - because they read how much better my life will be with one.

If you have any “techie” questions, you can just drop in any Wednesday morning at 9:00, or at 1:00 on the first Wednesdays (March 4^th) if you have iPad or iPhone, and I will attempt to answer your questions. I can often help or at least give you some direction before you ask for professional help.

Now that Guys and Dolls is sold out, the next show is I Love Lucy On Stage which is a brand-new hit stage show adapted from the beloved television hit of the 50’s. The Center has purchased 20 tickets for the 2:00 Saturday matinee on April 11^th at the Keller Auditorium in Portland and the cost is $75 including transportation. Just drop by the Center to purchase your tickets.

Debra Jones has lined up an exciting list of creative arts classes at the Center beginning next Tuesday, March 10^th from 1:00 to 2:30. There is limited room and the classes fill up quickly, so you should call the Center and reserve your spot ASAP. Because of the grant from the Wasco County Cultural Trust, we can keep the cost low - only $2.00 per class plus all the materials are provided. This allows you to get your toes wet without having to take a full bath. The lineup for the spring classes are: March 10th - Pastels; March 24^th - Cup & Saucer; April 14 - Herb Garden; April 28 - Wooden Serving Trays; May 12 - Mosaics; May 26 - Collages. Call the Center at 541-296-4788 if you have any questions.

The topic for the 11:00 Tuesday Lecture on March 10^th is “Livable Communities – What does a community that supports all ages look like.”

For the Center’s Tuesday Night Music on March 10^th, Martin and Friends will be playing for your dancing and listening enjoyment. Doors open at 6:00 and the music starts at 7:00. All ages are welcome and donations are appreciated.

It was January 11, 1959 on the Ed Sullivan Show when America watched Ed Sullivan interview Fidel Castro just days after the Cuban Revolution. (The winner of a free Cherry Festival Breakfast on April 25^th is Alex Currie.)

Starting this week, the winner of the “Remember When” question will win five raffle tickets for the Necktie Quilt that was machine pieced and quilted by Francie Yuhas. You can see the quilt at the Center or on the Center’s website at www.midcolumbiaseniorcenter.com. Tickets are $1.00 a piece or seven for $5.00. The raffle drawing will be held on Monday, April 27^th.

This week’s “Remember When” question is about a children’s program telecast on NBC from 1947 through 1960. At the start of each show, Buffalo Bob would come out and ask “Say kids, what time is it? What would the children in the “Peanut Gallery” say in response? E-mail your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788 or send it with one of Clarabell’s seltzer bottles.

Well, it’s been another week, living in the “now” because I can’t remember what happened yesterday. Until we meet again, as I am often told, if you ever find yourself in a hole, the first thing to do is to put down the shovel.

“It is not by muscle, speed, or physical dexterity that great things are achieved, but by reflection, force of character, and judgment; and in these qualities old age is usually not only not poorer, but is even richer.”  Cicero