MIDDLETOWN SENIOR CENTER

We are here to serve the seniors of our community.

Lori Tourville, Executive Director

For the past two months, I have had a front row seat to what this senior center is all about. Friends helping a friend and strangers helping a stranger, soon to become friends.

A. J. Franks, our resident pianist, recently was in dire need of transportation to and from the Coyote Valley Plaza in order to ride the shuttle to the Martin-O’Neil Cancer Center located at the Saint Helena Hospital. The need was to last for seven weeks, five days each week. What to do? What to do? Tell a friend and have a network of caring, able individuals.

Friend, Patrick Fitzgerald, drew up a calendar and got the word out. Our network of caring, able seniors answering the call were Mary Madigan, Duncan and Zayda MacInnes, Dennis Gilson, Joanne Eberle, Tonie Ledoux, and Harry Krall.

Great work, gang. The deed is done; and a great job it was. Once again, small town living and joining forces is quite an unbeatable combination. It is a glory to witness. A. J., have a rapid recovery from this infringement. Thank you one and all.

Lori

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Come visit

our Thrift Store

Lots of Good Stuff!

Remember the Thrift Store’s monthly raffle. Featured are photographs by Lozja Mattas. Her work is on display in the Thrift Store. (A real must see.)

Check out the current selection at the greeter’s table. The raffles will be held on the third Wednesday of the month at the Luncheon Club lunches. Tickets are on sale for $1.00 each or $5.00 for six. Inquire in the Thrift Store.

Need not be present to win.

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Tessie Espinosa, Administrative Assistant and Bookkeeper

HICAP

Provides free and objective information and assistance in dealing with Medicare, Medi-Cal, HMO's , long term care insurance and other health insurance issues. HICAP provides two main services - individual counseling and community education presentations. Local appoints are available with a registered volunteer. To schedule a one-on-one counseling appoint with a HICAP counselor, call 1-800-434-0222, ext. 117.

Information

and Assistance

A free service for seniors 60 and older in Lake and Mendocino counties, linking older individuals and their caregivers to appropriate community resources available to meet their needs. Senior I & A will help you know about area services and whether you qualify.

Senior Hot Line Available: 1-800-510-2020

Senior Legal Assistance

The program provides free legal assistance, education, advice, counseling and representation to Lake & Mendocino county seniors in the following areas:

*Elder Abuse

*Housing Rights

*Public Benefits (health, income & supportive services)

*Consumer Protection and Debt

*Incapacity and long-term care

Legal Services of Northern California

421 N. Oak Street

Ukiah, CA. 95482

7 WAYS TO SHOP HEALTHY ON A BUDGET

With a little know-how and advance planning, you can enjoy nutritious foods while sticking to a tight budget.

Plan around Sales—The key to smart, budget-friendly grocery shopping is to plan ahead for the week. Plan meals around fresh produce, lean proteins and low-fat dairy items that are on sale to save money while eating healthy. Check store sale flyers, and then check available coupons on the same items for additional savings. Compare national brands and private store labels for the lowest price.

Create a shopping List—Use your weekly meal plan to create a master grocery list, and stick to it. Prioritize your food dollars for nutrient-rich vegetables, fruits, low-fat dairy, lean protein and whole grains. To keep your grocery list from growing too long, prepare meals that include similar ingredients throughout the week.

In the Produce Section—When it comes to vegetables and fruits, shop seasonally. Seasonal produce is at its peak flavor and is generally more abundant, so it’s sold at a lower price. Frozen vegetables and fruits are comparable in nutritional quality to fresh, but avoid those that have added sugars or salt.

Considering Organic—For those interested in organically-grown produce, refer to “Clean 15”—items with the lowest levels of pesticide residues.

At the Meat Counter—Purchase a larger quantity of meat that is on sale, and prepare enough for two or more meals. Enjoy left-overs later in the week or freeze for future use. Plan a meatless meal several times each week, or try replacing half the meat in dishes such as chili, meatloaf or burger patties with beans or chopped vegetables.

Grains and Dry Goods—Whole grains and dried beans are generally inexpensive and are an easy way to get more nutrition for your buck. Stock up on these nonperishable items when on sale.

Reduce Waste—Once you’ve done your shopping, make the most of your food spending by cutting down on waste. Plan to use highly perishable items—such as fish and seafood, salad greens, berries and fresh herbs—early in the week. Enjoy leftovers for lunch or create new meals from leftover ingredients. Cooked meat and vegetables can be revamped as a filling for a casserole, frittata or soup.