November

Director’s Message …

By Ken Donarski

 After 18 plus months of political campaigning it is finally coming to an end.  Please get out and vote Tuesday, Nov. 4.  We are a polling place on Tuesday.  It will be interesting to see what this election brings.  If you are tired of standing in long lines there is an option to vote by mail.  We have the application form at the center.  You would not even have to mail it because we can put it in our county mail bag.  It is too late for this year but you can apply for future voting.  

Sandy Senior Center is looking for persons willing to be part of our Legislative Calling Tree.  June Gutierrez is spearheading our Calling Tree but it is very important that we have an active group put together.  The State Legislature will be looking to cut budgets that can really impact seniors, County Aging Services Programs and this center.   We will have Calling Tree training on Dec. 9 at 1 pm.  This will not require a lot of your time but a phone call to your legislatures.  Seniors do make a difference on issues.   If you are interested in participating or want more information on this matter, please talk to June, John or myself.

We will be having our Thanksgiving buffet on Tuesday, Nov 18.  To partake you will need to sign up by the 11^th.  We will be having real turkey, mashed potatoes, dressing, gravy, cranberries and pumpkin pie.  Where could you get all this for a $2 donation?  Let’s pack the café the 18.  Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

“Money can’t buy happiness – but somehow it’s more comfortable to cry in a Corvette than in a Yugo”

 Engage the Mind 

Tea @ 3: Mon., Nov. 3 and Mon., Nov. 17, 3:00 p.m. If you wonder how to distribute family heirlooms among your family, you will want to attend “Who Gets Grandma’s Yellow Pie Plate.” Marilyn Albertson, from Salt Lake County Extension Service, will address the topic on Mon., Nov. 3.

Marilyn Hoff, from Utah State Government, will be the guest speaker on Nov. 17. Known as the Earthquake Lady of Utah, she will be giving tips on how to prepare for the eventual disaster that scientists predict will occur in Utah.

Daughters of Utah Pioneers:  Thurs., Nov. 6,  6:30 p.m.The Daughters of Utah Pioneer Guardian of Legacy Camp will learn about The Joseph Smith Collection at their monthly meeting. The lesson will be repeated at Mingo Camp on Thurs., Nov. 13 at 2:00 p.m. Those interested in learning about the history of Utah are invited to participate in this program. 

Doorways to Peace: Wed., Nov. 19, 12:30-1:30 p.m. “Playing with the Power of Praise.”This month we will play with how the power of Praise easily fulfills the heart’s desire to love. Why is Praise so powerful? The more one Praises, the more we find to Praise.  True Praise, from the heart, carries a vibration that re-aligns us with universal Truth.  Come and play with this enlivening and healing power. Discover how easy it is to experience the Truth of love in your heart.

Inspirational Cinema Viewing:  Wed., Nov. 19, 1:30-3:30 p.m. Each month, watch a free movie hosted by the International Society for Ascension – a movie that inspires, educates, heals and transforms our lives!  This month’s movie: “Emmanuel’s Gift,” a beautiful and touching documentary narrated by Oprah Winfrey, of a disabled man in Ghana where a disability indicates a family curse.  Abandoned by his father and the entire village, he had nothing but gave everything, and in so doing discovered his true capabilities. Inspirational!  80 minutes.

Computer Club:   The Computer dept. holds monthly meetings for those who are interested in learning more about up-to-date computer technology that is available on the market. Each month topics of interest to mature adults are select regarding current trends in the computer world. If you have a special topic that you would like discuss, be certain to submit the idea. The Club will find a proficient instructor to teach the topic.

On Mon., Nov. 17 at 9:30 a.m. the Club will have an opportunity to learn more about “Google Search”.

Computer Lab:  Monday, 9:30 a.m. The Computer Department has set aside Monday mornings for “Computer Lab”. The Lab gives you the opportunity to resolve difficulties in any computer classes you have encountered. Instructors are available to assist with your problems or answer questions. You might wish to use the morning to practice skills you are learning at the Center. The fourth week of Computer Lab is set aside for “Computer Club” meeting.

Unlock Creativity

In the Fine Arts

Holladay Gals China Painting Club: Fri., Nov. 7, 10:00 a.m.The group meets the first Friday of the month October through June. The purpose of the club is to foster the art of China Painting.  A guest artist is introduced each month who teaches a different subject and/or technique.  Besides participating in the Home and Garden Show in March, the Club belongs to the World Organization of China Painters.  They meet quarterly along with other Utah Chapters to participate in various China painting activities.

In December the group will have a holiday luncheon at a local restaurant to exchange Bells they have painted.

President Marianne Feller invites newcomers to observe Club operation to determine if you are interested in painting in this medium.

Tatting Club:  Mondays, 9:30 a.m.The Tatting Club begins each Monday morning with the ladies in the group sharing what they have accomplished during the week. A discussion is held to resolve problems encountered. Then the shuttles go to work and stitches are carefully counted. Pretty handkerchief edges, dollies, bonnets and booties are among the items that you will find members doing.

Some mornings other talents are brought, like homemade pies and cakes. What a delightful way to enjoy old friends and make new ones while talking on the challenges of an art that was once considered “lost”

Anyone who has a desire to learn a very inexpensive hobby is welcome to join the Club.

Coordinator: LeVern Jarrad

Oil Art Studio:  Monday & Tuesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m. “There is an ever changing mood of the landscape in nature with diversity of subjects; of seasons and the presence of something beautiful that only God can create,” says Dave Oldham, your fellow associate in oil painting.

      “Seeing an object involves more than just sight, it involves being aware of the line, form and values. The illusions and form created by color and perspective, forms of light and dark values, seeing the illusions of space and form created by color tone and perspective. When this occurs, the artist learns to develop his/her own techniques,” continues Dave.

      Dave suggests that the beginning artist start on a small canvas, approximately 20” x 16”or experiment on paper. First start sketching some form of nature into the painting. Most paintings have horizontal lines and perspective. For example, a telephone pole that is close by should be larger than one in the distance.

      An interesting painting should have balance and a pattern of hues, tones and texture. The center of interest is very important. Some paintings show movement like in clouds, water, reflection and all paintings should have shadows.

      As a beginner, the sky should be painted in first and then the subject matter that becomes the center of interest. You than work from there.

      We invite you to become part of oil the painting studio on Monday and Tuesday, whether a beginner or an individual who has painted for years. Dave is available to assist you as you pursue your creativity.

Smart Living + Fitness =

A Healthier U

Podiatry Clinic: Wed., Nov. 19 at 11:00 a.m.  Good foot care and regular foot checks are an important part of your health care. Dr. Steven Shelton, a podiatrist, will be available for toe nail trimming and other foot care. There is a suggested $5.00 donation for this service. If you have foot problems, be sure to discuss them with Dr. Shelton.

High Blood Pressure: High blood pressure is one risk factor of heart disease that can easily be controlled with diet and exercise. Still, rates of uncontrolled hypertension among women are increasing nationally. Uncontrolled hypertension rates in men and women vary across the country; however, we need to boost blood pressure control efforts.

Hypertension can easily be controlled by lifestyle change, diet and medication. With more exercise, better diets and appropriate use of anti hypertensive medications, America can resolve this trend.

To keep you on track, you’ll want to have your blood pressure checked monthly. Check this month’s Special Events calendar for time and location; we offer this service three times during the month.

Dining 4 One:  Fri., Nov. 14. 9:00 a.m. Nutrition is important through all life stages – from childhood to late adulthood. As you age, a balanced and varied eating pattern remains important, but your nutritional needs change. This is especially true if you take medications that may impact your appetite and mineral needs. Also, risks for nutrition-related disease such as heart disease, osteoporosis, and diabetes increase as you age.

Eating smart means including a variety of foods each day. Foods provide the energy, protein, vitamins, minerals, fiber and water you need for good health.  We encourage you to join our Dining 4 One class each month. We have an opportunity to learn about simple, yet nutritious food that is prepared by Marion Mellenthin. Jackie Pierce gives you the nutritional value of the food you sample. You will also receive the recipe.

Opportunities Knock 4 U

Frontotemporal Dementia: Wed., Nov. 12, 9:30 a.m.  A new support group for those suffering from Frontotemporal Dementia will be holding their monthly meeting on the second Wednesday of the month.

Frontotemporal dementia (frontotemporal lobar degeneration) is an umbrella term for a diverse group of rare disorders that primarily affect the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain – the areas generally associated with personality and behavior.

Some people with frontotemporal dementia undergo dramatic changes in their personality and become socially inappropriate, impulsive or emotionally blunt, while others lose the ability to use and understand language. Researchers estimate that at least 2 percent of all dementia cases are the frontotemporal variety. After diagnosis, the course of the disease may run anywhere from two to ten years before resulting in death.

Caregivers for this support group travel from Wyoming, Logan and points south.

Control Your Diabetes for Life Support Group: Tues., Nov. 18 at 1:00 p.m.  For those suffering from diabetes, early detection and treatment of eye problems can save your sight. A medical professional from Alta View Hospital will outline steps you can take to avoid eye problems in our monthly Control Your Diabetes for Life Support Group.

Increasing awareness of the importance and benefits of diabetes control is key purpose. This support group gives you the latest resources that can help you regulate the disease.

Seeking Donated Knitting Yarn. The Sandy Center seniors are knitting 40 x 40-inch lap robes for Veterans and are in need of donated yarn. Those interested in the community who would like to donate yarn, may bring it to the Center. Sandy residents, who would like to participate in the project, are welcome to contact Diana Butcher, 561-3265, for additional information. 

NAMI:  Thurs., Nov. 6. 7:00 p.m. NAMI is a support group for families with individuals with severe brain disorders (mental illness). The group discusses the clinical treatment of these illnesses and teaches the knowledge and skills that family members need to cope more effectively.

Rose Carbine is the facilitator for the group which meets on the first Thursday of the month

Veteran’s Day Breakfast/Program: Tues., Nov. 11. 8:00-9:30 a.m. Once again Canyon Creek Assisted Living & Memory Care in Cottonwood Heights will sponsor our Veterans Day Breakfast. They will also be presenting a program at 9:30 a.m. The center will close at 11:00 a.m., so that you might observe the day with other community activities.

News 4 U 2 Use

Advisory Council Election: November is the month that we not only elect a new President for our country but a new Advisory Council for our Center. This year we will be filling seven vacancies and we are still accepting nominees. Anyone interested in nominating an individual or running yourself should see a member of the Council or staff.

Be sure to check out the photos/bio on the Bulletin Board at the Program Corner or read the bios that follow so you will be an informed voter when we have our election the week of November 17-21 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Also be sure to attend our “Meet the Candidates” reception at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 10 when we will be serving coffee, hot chocolate and donuts.

Meet…

Judy Spratling - Judy is a native Utahn but, in the last 30 years, has lived in six different states. She has held a variety of jobs in her lifetime with her latest working for 13 years as a consultant in meetings and planning for IBM's World Financial Division in New York. She has been coming to the Center since her return to Utah 3 years ago. Judy is a certified yoga instructor and currently teaches the class here. She also attends the Spanish class. She and her husband, who also attends yoga and Spanish, are active members of a Christian church, are leaders of a youth group and are also very involved in the community. Their volunteer activity includes Habitat for Humanity. In NYC Judy tutored inner-city children, reaching out to mostly Hispanic; she was the director of this program for 5 years and the program is still a big success.

Rayna Scott – Rayna taught piano for 22 years before going to work at the University of Utah in Career Services as Recruitment Coordinator. While there she received the Dean's Service Excellence Award for Student Affairs and Services. She worked 13 years before retiring in 1997. During the 2002 Olympics she worked as a volunteer in the Olympic Village. Rayna is currently serving as a Cub Scout den leader to a group of 8, 9, and 10 year-old boys. She teaches classes on genealogical research to adults. She first got involved with the Center in 2005 taking a photo editing class. She then started helping with the class which she's been doing ever since. Rayna has served two years on the Advisory Council, the second year as secretary. She likes to mountain bike, hike, read, and study for Spanish class. She and her husband Dave are the parents of four children and 12 grandchildren.

Pauline Ludy – Pauline retired from a telephone company after 34 years and was a member of Telephone Pioneers.  In retirement she cared for her mother for seven years until her death.  She moved to Sandy 10 years ago and has been coming to the Sandy Senior Center since 2000.  For eight years she has been very active in the Camera Club where she keeps attendance records, contacts members, buys supplies, etc.  Pauline also worked very hard for the Thrift Sales, has volunteered with Curtis Parker in the photo department at the County Fair, served as hostess greeting newcomers in the Café, and helped with Bingo. She also volunteers at Alta View Hospital to familiarize people with the Sandy Senior Center.  Pauline has served on the Advisory Council the last two years and would like to continue as a member.

Lynette Scott - Lynette worked for 38 years as a secretary/executive secretary/ administrative assistant in government, real estate and private industry.  She is secretary for the TheosophicalStudyCenter in Salt Lake City and a founding member of the Theosophical Society.  She has one 26-year-old daughter.  Although just a casual member previously, Lynette has been actively involved at the Center the past two years, enjoys it very much and likes promoting the activities to everyone.  She is currently teaching the astrology class.  Other volunteer work includes tutoring 5^th graders at Sandy Elementary (bridges volunteer and reading) which she has been doing for five years.

June Gutierrez – June comes to us from California where she lived since 1950.  She was sole owner of Lawyers Billing Service for 10 years and then became a realtor and sold and leased property for 14 years.  She is highly educated and spent 6-7 years on the Internet as a watch-dog on Senate and Congressional bills in Washington, D.C.  After the death of her husband in 2006, June’s son moved her to Sandy where she has met some wonderful, loving friends here at the Center.  She is now the Center’s representative on the Aging Services Legislative Committee where she serves as a watch dog to protect seniors.

Robert Mueller – Bob spent 7 years in the military, worked 10 years for AT&T, 7 years as an engineer for Quest, 17 years as regional manager for Reliance Comm Teck, and his last 10 years as director of marketing for Mid-State Consultants (telecommunications).  He has served on the Board of Directors for six different companies around the country. He has been coming to the SandySeniorCenter since retiring two years ago.  Bob’s volunteer activities have included coaching Little League football (32 years) and baseball (8 years).  He enjoys participating with the Center’s golfing group, being in charge of Bocce ball, and working out three times a week in our exercise room.

Alex Hoshovsky - Alex has a B.A. in Philosophy, M.A. in Financial Management and Ph.D. in Public Administration. He spent 13 years in the U.S. Air Force, followed by 20 years with the federal Department of Transportation. Prior to his retirement he was an Associate Professor of Engineering Management at the GeorgeWashingtonUniversity in Washington, D.C.

Alex teaches the digital photography and graphics computer classes and is a teacher in watercolor arts. He served as president of the Sandy Senior Center Advisory Council for two terms. Additionally, he serves on the Salt Lake County Advisory Council for the Retired and Senior Volunteer Programs.

His current interest includes generating greater public support for visual arts in Sandy city.

Don Ramey - Don has been coming to the Center since 1997.  He is a member of the wood carving class and camera club.  His volunteer duties include teaching various computer classes (10 years) and providing old photo restoration (5 years).  He is also a First Friend.

Don has served as a member of the Advisory Council for two terms (2 years each) and was vice president for one term.  He feels he still has something to contribute to the Council and therefore is seeking membership for another term.

Bill Rollins – Bill served in the U.S. Navy and then went to work for the U.S. Postal Service where he worked for 30 years as a clerk and mail carrier until his retirement about 15 years ago.  He and his wife Nancy have been coming to the Center for 3 years.  Bill is an excellent pool player and helps newcomers in the billiard room, especially “the ladies.”  He is also interested in genealogy.  Bill is willing to try anything and thinks he could be a good contributor on the Advisory Council.

Nancy Rollins –Nancy worked for 27 years as a collections supervisor for Ford Motor Credit.  She is interested in genealogy and many of the programs here at the Center where she has been attending, along with her husband Bill, for the past 3 years.  Her activities here include Tai Chi, Belly dancing, Astrology, Neuro-linquistics Programming and puzzles.  Nancy has been involved with the flu clinic and helping Diana Butcher with the paperwork. She is anxious about running for the Council.

Ray Kartchner and Page Van Stone, who are presently serving on the Council, are also candidates for 2009-2010 Advisory Council. No bios are available at press time.

"A Little Time Can Do A lot!"

Help! Help! Help! Marilyn Whetman needs help with our First Friends program for an afternoon shift on Monday and Friday from 12:30 to 3:00 p.m. First Friends are our tour guides for the Center. You can spot them by their Red Vest. They help individuals in Centre Café with seating arrangements and arrange for assistance for those individuals needing help, if they have difficulty with handling a tray.

First Friends volunteers must be committed, be outgoing, enjoy meeting people and have a sincere willingness to help others.

Look Beyond the Horizon

New Coming in January: Beginning Intermediate Tap Dance. Fri., Jan. 9. 1:30 p.m. This class will cover basic taps and techniques, some intermediate steps and include fun and challenging dance routines. Karen Catten, currently teaches and performs with the Dancing Grannies” of Bountiful, and will teach the class free of charge. She is an experienced and talented tap dancer and would ultimately like to put together a performing group from the Sandy Senior center.

If you are a serious “tapper” or just want to come and get some great aerobic exercise and have a lot of fun, sign up for this one at the Program Corner.

Coming in the Spring:  Biking, a healthy lifestyle that will provide you with significant health and exercise benefits is scheduled for 2009. Biking is a fun healthy sport and a great way to get around. When biking on the road “ALWAYS GO WITH THE FLOW”, i.e., ride with the traffic not against. Bikes are considered traffic vehicles in Utah and must obey all traffic signs and signals. Bikers are required by law to ride single file. All motorized vehicles are required to give you 3 feet of clearance when passing (3 feet from the furthest extension of mirrors on vehicles and the widest part of the bike). Please join us for bike rides on Tuesday or Wednesday starting in March. Helmets are required. Coordinator for the program is James Piani.