Category Archives: Judy Salamacha

Dr. Don Morris – A Life Lived Well

JudySalamacha300DPIThen & Now
By Judy Salamacha

Where does Dr. Don M. Morris get his zest? It might be from his passionate interest in people and his quest to stay healthy and make things happen.
At 85-years young, he recently won three gold medals at the California State Senior Games Championships held in Pasadena. Competing in the 85-89 age group, the Shell Beach resident made 23 of 25 basketball free throws, including 11 of 18 from the 3-point line.
He also won the hotshot-shooting contest. He’s won over 100 medals in the past 33 years competing in track and field and basketball at Senior Olympic competitions in Florida, Texas, Louisiana, California, Utah, Nevada, Arizona and Oregon.
In 2009, he was honored as the “Mt. San Antonio College Alumnus of the Year,” and the 1950 graduate was said to have “excelled academically and athletically,” according to the recitation for the award. Continue reading Dr. Don Morris – A Life Lived Well

Writer’s Conference a Treat and a Bargain

JudySalamacha300DPIThen & Now
By Judy Salamacha

While traveling to workshops, author and education consultant, Sandra Mittelsteadt, meets people who are impressed that she has published three books. Publishing is their “dream” they tell her. To which she answers, “The only difference between me and you is I wrote the first word.”
Tolosa Press columnist, Teri Bayus, is the newest director for the 31st production of the Central Coast Writers Conference at Cuesta College, set for Sept. 18-20. She advises, “If you are even thinking of picking up a pen to start to write or want to jumpstart your current project, you need to come to the conference.”
Offered through Cuesta College Community Programs, registration and youth scholarship applications can be found at: www.cuesta.edu/communityprograms. Continue reading Writer’s Conference a Treat and a Bargain

Training with the Friends of the Elephant Seals

Tolosa FES Elephant SealsThen & Now
By Judy Salamacha

Would you like to meet people from all over the world without traveling far from home? Is teaching something amazing to children and adults on your bucket list?
Are there ocean mysteries you’d like to discover without leaving the shore? Does it make you happy to make others happier?
If you are intrigued by these questions, you should meet Polly Tatton, chairperson of the training team for Friends of the Elephant Seals (FES). An interview with her is the first step to becoming a docent and volunteer guide. Continue reading Training with the Friends of the Elephant Seals

Volunteers Honored by Senior

JudySalamacha300DPIThen & Now
By Judy Salamacha

“Seniors, Get into the Act!” This call to action complimented and congratulated several individuals and senior service organizations for their good works at the 2015 “Celebration Tea” hosted by the Central Coast Commission for Senior Citizens, Area Agency on Aging.
Jim Talbott, president of the agency’s board of directors, said the honorees were “champions” for their efforts to enhance the lives of senior adults in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara. Three honorees were recognized as “Senior Citizens of the Year” — Dr. Ralph B. Allison, Forrest “Frosty” Frost, and Joan Bogle. Continue reading Volunteers Honored by Senior

A Welcoming Home for Elderly Dogs

JudySalamacha300DPIThen & Now
Story and Photos by Judy Salamacha

Tolosa Charlotte Meade & 19th Beagle
Saturday, June 27 from 4-7 p.m. the nonprofit will present a second annual benefit for Meade Canine Rescue at Four Lanterns Winery on Hwy 46 West. Guests may walk their own dog or a senior rescue dog through the vineyard during “Yappy Hour in the Vines.” There will be wine tasting, live music, and a silent auction with celebrity guests, actor David Alpay, author Teresa Rhyne, and movie equestrian, Donna Cheek. The advance donation cost is $40. Call (805) 239-4004 or email to: [email protected] for tickets or information.

Charlotte Meade is not an Old Mother Hubbard. She’s far from elderly and is a spunky bulldog when confronted with irresponsible pet owners. And her cupboards would never be without healthy canine cuisine.
Her volunteers at Meade Canine Rescue Foundation say she’s the Pied Piper of her 62-dog senior homestead. No doubt, she’s the Alpha dog on the ranch, but she’s no “dog” when it comes to looks, knowledge or determination. Admirers probably liken her more to a St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta. In fact, Pope Francis, take note — Meade is working miracles in California for senior dogs that become homeless for a variety of reasons.
“Dogs that have no other option but death are provided food, shelter, veterinary care, exercise, and love,” reads Meade’s website (see: www.meadecaninerescue.org), a senior dog rescue nonprofit based in Connecticut and California created by Charlotte Meade. Funds for medical costs and supplies are the most needed while Meade and volunteers provide a loving and safe environment for abandoned senior dogs to live out their final years.   Continue reading A Welcoming Home for Elderly Dogs