Faces of the Valley: Beating the aging odds

Are you 55 or older? The Scotts Valley Senior Center is a place where you can find new interests, friends and excitement. There are a number of amazing activities and classes that will enrich your lives and add to your skills and health.
The center’s exercise program meets twice a week, led by two physical therapists.
Cherry Littler leads the Friday class in gentle stretches, strength building and general well being.
“After I retired, I never thought I would have the opportunity to continue sharing my information with others,” Littler said. “I am grateful for the opportunity to volunteer at the center.”
The members of her class are also grateful for her expertise.
Exercises on Monday are led by Matt Zwerling, who practices in Scotts Valley. His lively sense of humor makes his class enjoyable.
“I make time to volunteer, because I like to help people stay in good condition,” Zwerling said.
Mimi Patterson is the enthusiastic leader of the Bocce Ball League. Four years ago, she started the league when the Scotts Valley courts were built at Skypark. She has developed the program from one morning to four.
“I hope to get enough new members for a team on Wednesday,” Patterson said.
For now, players compete Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. Friday is a free-for-all, when team members can play, practice their skills and take their friends. There is also a workshop that day for new players.
Patterson, a pleasant woman with a wonderful smile, is a nurse. She volunteers to take blood pressure at 11 a.m. Mondays for anyone who wants or needs to be monitored. Along with having one’s pressure read, she informs folks about all sorts of health information gathered from her experience and recognized Internet health sites.
Monday morning, a yoga class gives seniors a needed twist, led by Padma Rudraraui. Participants say it starts their week in a good place.
Monday afternoon at the center is devoted to bridge and other card games.
Tuesday is Ukulele morning. A beginning class given by Carolle Burrows will start next month. For years, Marty Carlson has instructed this class. Marty’s former students have gathered to learn new songs and improve their skills. Diane Nielsen, the informal leader, has a musical background.
“I love this get-together,” Nielson said. “Sometimes, when I come in, I feel lousy. The jam uplifts me, and I feel great on leaving.”
Tuesday afternoon, people interested in home arts — knitting, sewing and crafts of all kinds — share expertise and talk while pursuing various projects.
Thursday brings a watercolor class led by Bev Martin for experienced and potential artists. Beginners are enthusiastic about learning to paint from the lovely and talented instructor.
New this winter is line dancing. It is led by Samy Khalil, a valley resident who greets everyone warmly.
“I encourage participants with gentle dances and instruction that everyone will enjoy,” he said.
Also included in the center activities are lunch, bingo, bridge, poker and tai chi, led by Mary Mulligan. Promoting good health and flexibility is an important part of the programs. Mary’s class fulfills that role.
Aside from the regular schedule, the center has parties and special events throughout the year — Valentine’s Day and St. Patrick’s Day festivities, a fashion show, a pancake breakfast, a chocolate and wine festival, summer barbecues and Thanksgiving and winter holiday lunches — that provide an opportunity to make friends and have fun.
“My husband, Bud, likes these events so much, he never misses attending,” Ruth Kennedy said recently.
Most activities cost $2 for members, and membership is only $20 for the year.
If one wanted to become a volunteer in some activity, opportunity knocks. Scotts Valley Seniors, let’s get behind the center and make it the best in the county. Recently the full time co-coordinator position has been cut to 20 hours a week which creates the chance for volunteers help in their favorite activity.
At present, the center is looking for a volunteer to teach a beginning class in the use of computers.
For information: 438-8666.
Scotts Valley writer Phyllis Levine writes now and then about her valley neighbors. She can be reached at ph********@*ol.com.