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It's never too late to learn Shopping for better health Caregiving: a labor of love Finding harmony

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We all start and end with family. You can ease your family's burden by pre-planning your final arrangements. Pre-paying for your funeral arrangements now can protect your family against rising costs and ensure it will be the funeral you want.

Call: 541-523-4300 t'o learn how pre-planninf can help your family on the most difficult day of their lives.

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The Observer k Baker City Herald

WINTER 2015

Introducing Ageless Ski school: Eager to teach, eager to learn.

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Anthony Lakes instructors help students of all ages

Column: Buying a laptop today....

Christoph Mattison offers advice for purchasing a new computer

Shopping for better health Products are people ages 50 and up buying

Rolling in the dough.

14

The pleasures of breadmaking

Caregiving: A true labor of love

15

A caregiver shares her story

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It's never too 1 ate to fa I I in love ....

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Community choirs: Adding harmony and purpose

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Finding a companion at the senior center

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The benefits of joining a choral group

Calendar of events

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A look at things to do and places to go Tim Mustoe/Ageless

Linda Clayville, the co-owner of Nature's Pantry, shares what items are popular among shoppers ages 50 and up. See the full story on Page 11.

About the cover:

Advertising:

Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort offers free skiing for people age 70 and older. Beginners, no matter what age, can take advantage of one of Anthony Lakes' experienced instructors.

To reserve your advertising space, contact The Observer at 541-963-3161 or Baker City Herald at 541-523-3673.

— S. John Collins/Ageless

The Observer k Baker City Herald

Ageless

Welcome to our first edition of Ageless is a magazine centered around people from our communities in the prime of their life: 40-100.

W hat can you getoutof Ageless?

The aim of Ageless is to provide you with news, entertainment and advice in all areas

of life. You are currently reading the January-February issue, which features stories relevant to business, recreation, health and wellness and more. See Page 3

Emily Adair Emily is the special sections editor of the La Grande Observer. She works with Ageless, Go! and Hometown, among other things.

She can be reached at eadair@ lagrandeobserver.com.

for an index of everything that's inside.

What's next?

Naturally, the first thing to do is to read the Ageless stories

herein for helpful information,

e ess a a z ine for your personal pleasure, or to find new activities to do in your free time.

When youhave fi nished,mark your calendars for the next issue.

to send in your suggestions.

There is no such thing as a

bad idea.

You can send your suggestions to me at eadair@lagrandeobserv-

Ageless is planned to be available er.com, or you can tell one of the every two months in the Baker City Herald and the La Grande Observer.

W hat you if have a story idea?

In order to keep our content relevant, we need to stay updated on your interests.

M aybe you have specifi c ideas for stories about remarkable people, activities or concerns.

Maybe you are simply curious about general topics and want to learn more.

In either case, I encourage you

trusted contributors about your ideas.

Their contact information is located below.

Thank you for your interest, and — as always — your feedback is more than welcome.

— Emily Adair, Special Sections Editor

Do you havejournalism or writing experience?

To fi nd outabout fi eelance opportunities with Ageless, pleasecontact Emily Adair at eadair@lagrandeobserver.com.

STAYING CONNECTED

c —,4

Lisa Britton

S. John Collins

Cher i se Kaechele T i m M ustoe

Katherine Stickroth Trish Yerw,es

Lisa is a freelance reporter for the Baker City Herald, where she worked as a reporter from 2002-10, and for the La Grande Obser ver.

She can be contacted at news@ bakercityherald.com.

John is the lead photographer for

Cherise is a reporter

Baker City Herald, where he has worked since 1978. Collins contributes images to WesCom special sections.

He can be contacted at jcollins@ bakercityherald.com.

for the La Grande Observer. She covers

Katherine is a freelance writer and a Wallowa County correspondent for the Observer since August 2015. She is also a bookseller for

4

I Ag e l ess

and photographer

general assignment topics with the WesCom News Service.

Cherise can be reached at ckaechele@ lagrandeobserver.com.

Tim is the multimedia editor and the lead

photographer for The Observer, where he has worked since August 2014. He also makes independent films.

Tim can be contacted at tmustoe@ lagrandeobserver.com.

pikapress.com.

She can be reached at news@ lagrandeobserver.com.

Trish is a freelance reporter for the La Grande Observer and the Baker City Herald. Trish covers health and general assignment topics in Union County.

She can be reached at news@ lagrandeobserver.com.

The Observer k Baker City Herald

HEALTH NOTIFICATION A major name brand hearing aid provider wishes to field test a remarkable new digital hearing instrument in the area. This offer is free of charge and you are under no obligation.

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Ageless

5

Yt ' Instructors at Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort relish the chance to introduce beginners of all ages to the sport ls

By Lisa Britton, ForAgeless

I 4

Two skiers clomp into the lodge, shaking snow from their gray "Ski School" jackets.

Steve Schauer, 57, takes off his goggles and smiles, fresh from teaching a new skier at Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort. Beside Schauer, Steve Edwards, 73,

grins as he sheds some of his winter gear. The enthusiasm these two have for skiing could inspire the most hesitant new skier.

Edwards himself was a beginner just six years ago.

"I started skiing at 67," he said. "My neighbor was the director of the ski school."

That neighbor was George Roach, who had skied for more than 70 years and was director of the Anthony Lakes Learning Center. Roach died in 2011, and a

S. John Collins/Ageless

Ka aySStoneberg,64, ofLa Grande has helped countless people of all ages learn how to ski. She started at Spout Springs and has taught lessons atAnthony Lakes Mountain Resort since the late1970s.

scholarship has been established in his memory to help young people experience snow sports.

"The man was just incredible," Edwards said of Roach.

"He'd take me out daily. Even-

I'll be doing this all my life."

Schauer became an instructor

The allure of teaching and becoming a better skier is why he became an instructor.

So Edwards did — and still does.

He's qualified as a Level I

her entire life, and has been an instructor for 47 years.

"I started skiing at 5," she said.

"And there's a lot of encouragement — it doesn't matter if

Fulton, ran the ski school. She's taught at Anthony since 1978.

you're 35 or 5."

"It's been a lifestyle for me," Stoneberg said. "How can you

three years ago, after he retired from his job at Oregon Trail Elec- idea (what to do)," he said. tric Cooperative in Baker City.

tually he said 'You can ski well enough to teach.'"

the first time they step into their ski boots.

"It's better if they have no

"I think you always continue to learn," Schauer said.

He knows firsthand how it

He's learned a few tricks over

the years to encourage skiers.

When the younger students

come here and not have fun?" while she teaches, her husband, Knute, 74, hits the slopes. and after lessons.

"We're out in the fresh air, and it's good exercise," Knute said.

order to learn the correct tech-

start to tire, Schauer has discovered it works to entice them with a treat at the end of the lesson-

are teaching people how to ski, they get quite a bit of instruction

niques.

like making snow angels.

themselves after lessons end.

learned was wrong," he said.

skier but is looking to take the test to become a Level II. Even though these instructors

"When I began teaching, it

feels to change bad habits in

"I was self-taught. And a lot I Schauer started skiing at 13

became a way to learn," Edwards said. "It's an incredible sport

because you never stop learning.

It helped that her dad, Buzz

"I've made a lot of snow

angels," he said with a smile.

and just followed his buddies.

For some, teaching lessons is just a natural extension of their

"I never took lessons," he said.

Now he works to start skiers with the correct technique from

own love for skiing.

Kay Stoneberg, 64, of La Grande, has skied nearly

Skiing is still a family affair-

They also ski together before

"As you get older, you don't want to sit."

Plus, there's an advantage to

keep skiing as the birthdays add up — Anthony offers free skiing

"We're out in the fresh air, and it's good exercise," Knute said. "As you get older, you don't want to sit."

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S. John Collins/Ageless

Kay Stoneberg, 64, of La Grande, began skiing at age 5, and has taught lessons for 47 years.

She can befound atAnthony Lakes Mountain Resort most weekends, and usually teaches lessons on Fridays and Sundays.

The Observer k Baker City Herald

S. John Collins/Ageless

Knute Stoneberg,74, of La Grande, hits the slopes while his wife, Kay, teaches lessons. They also ski together before and after she teaches.

He said he loves skiing for the exercise and fresh air.

S. John Collins/Ageless

Steve Schauer, 57, of Baker City, started teaching ski lessons three years ago, after he retired from hisjob atOTEC. He never took lessons when he was young, so now his goal is to help beginning skiers learn the right technique from the start.

Ageless

Ski lessons at Anthony Lakes Lessons are offered twice a day at Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort — 10:30 a.m. and 1:30

p.m.

Throughout a typical season, about 400 students take lessons,

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said Chelsea McLagan, marketing director.

Last year, the ages of those in lessons ranged from 2-1/2 to 73.

Also, those 400 don't include the eight-week

Ski for the Health of It program held Fridays that includes more than 260 kids each season.

Tips for the beginner Stoneberg has a few pointers for those new to the sport.

Wear "the right clothing, and make sure your equipment is checked out by a certified shop," she said. "And take a lesson — you can start at any age.

Safety comes first. You're not going to have fun if you get hurt."

For clothing, she said to layer garments for warmthlayers can be removed as you warm upand wear eye protection and a helmet.

"And know when to quit," she said.

"When you're tired, that's when you get hurt."

To learn more about Anthony Lakes, visit anthonylakes.com.

S. John Collins/Ageless

Felicia Murphy, 11, of North Powder, starts her second seasonskiing atAnthony Lakes.

nated the ye olde question, "How much storage do I need?"

Your average modern laptops are selling with 500-gigabyte to one-terabyte drives, enough to store every episode of "I Love Lucy" 10 to 20 times, or 1 million

to 2 million high-quality photos.

Likewise, main processor

speed and RAM have become so easy and cheap to manufacture, stock options are usually more than sufficient. Generally, more is better with faster processors

it comfortable? Would a full-size board feel better or would a three-quarterssize board fit smaller hands better?

3. Do you travel often?

— Wi-Fi is offered just about

Laptops often sacrifice weight for battery life, power, or storage.

4. Are you new to typing?

ted cable. Just ask your host or proprietor for details, they often

reports, Skype with friends,

machines can be purchased for $400-800. Anything less, I'd be worried about quality issues or used units; anything more, and I'd be suspicious of a salesman

all without yet another knot-

on commission.

everywhere and allows you to access the Internet wirelessly.

Check your email, see weather

give out instructions on how to connect.

Many models come with

Even with a buying guide,

backlit keys, so look for this option.

the choices left to the buyer can still be daunting. Amazon.com can be used to both research and

Windows 10 will be familiar

and more memory because they will help carry as it ages. This is rarely an area to ponder unless you're thinking hardcore video

to those already using an older version and will be friendly for

editing and home movies are in

sider the most important ques-

while still offered it's also being phased out.

Portability is my main emphasis.

Take your PC anywhere in the

tions:

world with you, even if it's just

Even with the brisk pace of tech-

next door for some help.

nological progression, inexpen-

Restaurants, rest stations, hotels, even your own home

sive units can last years.

your future.

Here are some of what I con-

1. Is the screen big enough for you to see easily?

2. How is the keyboard?Is

compare prices locally; Consumer Reports can be a great tool for reading up on brands.

newcomers. Windows 8/8.1 should be avoided, because

A little advice from a personalized recommendation might

seem invaluable, but a hefty price tag doesn't ensure a better

experience for the average user.

Many quality, brand name

Christoph Mattison owns eMattison Computer Solutions in Enterprise. He may be reached at 541-501-7784 or christoph@emattison.com.

January is Glaucoma Awareness Month'f Glaucoma — often called "the sneak thief of sight" because it can strike without pain or other symptoms — is one of the leading causes ofblindness in the United States. Glaucoma cannot be prevented, but if diagnosed and treated early, eye care providers can help a patient control the disease.

Glaucoma causes deterioration of peripheral, or side vision, and when left untreated ultimately central vision is lost as well. Vision loss due to glaucoma cannot be reversed so early detection and treatment is critical.

Anyone can developglaucoma. However, some people are at higher risk than others.

• African-Americans over age 40 • Anyone age 60 and older, especially Hispanics • People with a family history of glaucoma • People with some medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease

When was the last timeyou had an eye examP Everyone age40 and over should get a comprehensive

eye exam regularly.

Make an appointment today.

.II,

a cr Vision (inic

2 I 50 Third Street, Baker City 54 I -523-5858 w w w.bakervisionclinic.com lp I

A g e less

The Observer k Baker City Herald

I s Tim Mustoe/Ageless

inda Clayville recommends roducts at Nature's Pantry.

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Nature's Pantry helps guide customers to better food choices

By Trish Yerges, For Ageless At least half of the customers who shop at Nature's Pantry in La Grande are in the 50-

plus age group, and what they shop for keeps the heart of this health retail business beating

strongly.

As these half-centurions age, they are often

ville, who is a licensed nutritional counselor.

with enzymes, which help digest your foods."

"They feel like their body is losing its shape and muscle tone. They feel they are getting a little wider through the midriff of their body,

plaint among the 50-plus group.

"If you eat too many of the fatty, over pro-

the need for more protein but without a lot of

so they are looking for ideas on what to eat or what to take to help. And we do talk about exercise too because it's not all about diet, so we help teach them what to do. Often-times we think we're going to live forever so we don't do it when we're young, but when we hit 50, and

added calories.

They seek healthy foods, supplements and

it's like a wake-up call."

Clayville said a balanced diet, including raw

other natural health products that address the

and live foods contributes to better health.

"I believe you should have live foods with

concerned about issues like their weight,

hormonal balance, sex drive, energy levels, joint pains, perhaps a sluggish metabolism, or

visible signs of aging and a plethora of unwanted symptoms that begin to kick in at this stage in life.

"People over 50 are looking to feel more fit,"

every meal," she said. "If you're going to have cooked meat or cooked potatoes, you should have a fresh salad or some fresh veggies with

said co-owner of Nature's Pantry Linda Clay-

it. Your fresh fruits and vegetables are loaded

The Observer k Baker City Herald

Poor digestion is a common health com-

cessed, overcooked foods, your digestion isn't

as good," Clayville said. "If you make sure to incorporate some raw fruits with breakfast, some raw vegetables with lunch and a nice

salad with dinner, you're getting those nice, live, raw foods that will help your digestion."

Clayville said the largest organ of the body, the skin, can be an indicator of nutritional and

lifestyle deficiencies.

"You can tell by people's skin, often, how old they are," she said. "Women especially come in and ask, 'What can I do to make my

skin not so old looking and wrinkled7'The No. I thing is drinking more water and staying hyAgeless

drated. The skin and every cell of the body needs water."

All too often the 50-plus shopper is looking for healthy ideas on how to combat stress in their lives.

"You would think that

people 50 and older would have less stress, but people are

therapy and diffusers are helpful in promoting good health and aid in inducing sleep. Some people put essential oils on their pillow, which helps them to relax and fall asleep. Others

it in a carrier oil and applying

make a bath with essential oils or mineral oils in it before they

customers to see their physician for diagnoses and treatment of serious and persistent conditions. Still, customer interest

retire for the night.

"Some of the oils are calm-

stressed out, and they want

something they can eat or take that will help them handle stress," Clayville said. "So we do a lot with essential oils,

ing; others are uplifting, refreshing or healing," she said. "For example, frankincense is really good for any kind of skin

lavender and what will keep issues. It's a healing oil. Some them calm. We talk about taking like the smell because it's relaxbaths with essential oils in it ing, focusing and centering. A and diffusing essential oils to lot of people use it for skin ishelp calm. We're a stressed-out nation, and that shows in our faces, our bodies and in our joints that we're stressed out."

Using essential oils, aroma-

sues, rubbing it on sore areas."

Lavender oil is a favorite essential oil, often desired for

it on the soles of the feet, where

the pores are the largest on the body, will facilitate a rapid absorption into the bloodstream.

Clayville always reminds her

and demand for complementary health products, foods and supplements is undeniably strong.

For example, a 50-plus shopper may be looking for something natural they can take or apply on their skin to temporarily relieve joint pains.

"Some peopletake hyaluronic acid, an element that's

its anti-inflammatory properties in every joint of your body, and and its calming benefits. Mixing as we age we tend to lose that

Pick gour perf'ect paradise

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hyaluronic acid, which helps lubricates the joint," Clayville said. "You can spray it on, take it internally or get it in creams."

Clayville said many women like face creams with hyaluronic acid because it moisturizes the skin. She said MSM is also

good for skin and sores, while Arnica helps with joint aches and pains, bruising or sprained muscles.

Some patrons shop weekly at Nature's Pantry for their basic

food needs, buying organic fruits, vegetables and choosing from dozens of different types of dry bulk foods.

Barb Zukin, 60, of La Grande

is one of those weekly patrons.

"I buy a lot of produce and supplements," said Zukin, who has been shopping at Nature's

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Wouldn't it be nice to take your body along?

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Your paradise is waiting!

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Baker Valley Travel

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541-523-9353 • 1-877-550-9353 Change the way you view the world.

Your health ancl wellness rely on a good night's sleep, and we have a broad selection from which to choose.

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215 Elm Street La Grande

1-541-963-5440

XRZIIEU0PB KC8 MQUUEÃ%% Ageless

northwesffurnffureandmaffress.com

The Observer k Baker City Herald

Pantry since 1986. "If there are special

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things I want or need, they are very easy to order them. Linda is very educated, and I feel comfortable and confident in her recommendation."

Clayville was 39 when she opened Nature's Pantry, and she has a master's in

nutrition. People may make an appointment with her for private nutritional counseling.

Currently, women are requesting this service more than men at a rate of almost two to one, but Clayville noted that the number of

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male shoppers is increasing, especially those

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who work out because they tend to be more conscious of eating better.

"Helping people get and maintain their health is a passion of mine, and I like to do it the most natural way possible," said Clayville. "I believe in medicine and people taking prescriptions when necessary, but I believe many of our health issues could be resolved if people took care of their bodies."

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p Next Mny, Nature's Pantry, 1907 4th Street, will celebrate its 30th year in business.

/ lim Mustoe/Ageless

Barb Zukin, 60, of La Grande, asks Linda Clayville, the co-owner of Nature's Pantry, for assistance.

Zukin has been a customer at Nature's Pantry for 30 years. Clayville is a licensed nutritional counselor.

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NldicmreP Kathy Rienti

letns heln von make sense of it all Call 541-963-N21

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The Observer k Baker City Herald

Ageless

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Dr. Dan owe enjoys the simple pleasures of baking bread

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By Lisa Britton, For Ageless Dr. Dan Lowe holds out the sourdough roll as an offering, an invitation to taste one of

life's simple pleasures: fresh-baked bread.

He grins as his guest takes a bite, delighted at the reaction that follows tasting the warm roll slathered with butter.

Lowe, 68, hasn't always been a bakerit's a passion he's discovered in retirement.

After graduating from Baker High School, Lowe went to college on the path to be a surgeon.

His career took him all over the United States where he worked in emergency rooms.

He also helped develop the trauma system in Oregon while working at Oregon Health & Sciences University in Portland.

"I really like taking chaos and making it orderly," he said.

After retiring, Lowe returned to his home-

town, influenced by the 3-1/2 years he served in the high-mountain desert of Afghanistan (he's a

know," Lowe said with a smile.

He started experimenting and soon learned that his choice to live in Baker Tower was a good one.

Jenny Mowe, owner of Sweet Wife Baking, which was at the time located in the historic building, turned out to be invaluable

in Lowe's quest for the perfect crusty loaf of bread.

Every time he baked, he'd take a sample to Mowe.

"She'dcritique and encourage me," Lowe said. "I knew it wasn't quite right but I wasn't sure. Some of it is just trial and error."

After a while, he changed his focus to sourdough when Mowe gave him starter from her own that has bubbled along for five years.

Lowe has a bookshelf full of cookbooks, and one that shows signs of frequent use is "Flour Water Salt Yeast" by Ken Forkish.

This hefty book is all about "the

retired colonel in the U.S. Army Reserves).

"It reminded me so much of Baker," he

said of Afghanistan.

He moved to Baker City in 2011 and rented an apartment in Baker Tower — a location

fundamentals of artisan bread

and pizza,"and yielded what has become Lowe's go-to recipe: Double-Fed Sweet Levain Bread.

Levain is the sourdough starter.

"What people want is crust and crumb," he said, tapping on the roll's top to explain the "crust" part.

The "crumb," he said, refers to the "bubbliness" of the inside — he's after a bread with lots of holes inside.

"With a roll, I want honey to seep into it,

rather than lie on top," he said.

This particular recipe takes a full day to develop the dough, which then proofs (final rise) overnight in the refrigerator. It is then is

baked the next morning.

Lowe canmake a variety ofbread shapes out of this recipe — baguettes, rolls, a boule (a rustic round) or a regular loaf.

He's taught a few locals this process from beginning to end and is thinking about expanding his offerings to sell bread to the community But he's not quite decided on that — he is retired, after all.

that helped jumpstart his breadmaking.

Lowe likes to cook, and one of his favorite

meals in the summer is gazpacho — a cold soup made with fresh, in-season vegetables.

While some recipes specify putting bread chunks in the gazpacho, that's not his preference.

"I like the bread separately to dip," he said. "And they said a baguette."

So he went searching through Baker City for the perfect baguette.

ABOUT SOURDOUGH Sourdough refers both to bread, and to the starter used to make it. Sourdough starter begins

with a combination of flour and liquid.

Friendly bacteria and the wild yeast attracted

to and living on flour begin to work with one another when flour is mixed with warm water.

The result: sourdough starter.

He found bread, of course, but none was exactly what he wanted.

Unsatisfied with the local offerings, he decided to try his hand at homemade.

"Anything you do yourself is so much better than what you can buy in the store,"

he said.

Except he'd never tried to make bread.

"I didn't know enough to know I didn't l4 i

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These tiny living creatures (lactobacilli and yeast) generate byproducts that cause bread to S. John Collins/Ageless

Dr. Dan Lowe, 68, of Baker City, stirs up his sourdough starter, which he uses in his favorite sourdough bread recipe. He started making bread after retiring from his career as a surgeon.

rise and give it a rich flavor.

Gold miners and early settlers relied on

sourdoughstarterto m ake bread,pancakesand biscuits — with the starter, they didn't need yeast

or baking powder.

King Arthur Flour, tototo.kingurthurflour.com The Observer k Baker City Herald

By Katherine Stickroth,

For Ageless

Cherise Kaechele/Ageless

Linda Bauck, left, talks to her sister, Kathleen McCrae, whom she has cared for since their mother passed away. Bauck is "following [her] mother's example."

Many individuals approaching their 50s begin eyeing retiitement,

which may be10-15 years ahead of them. For decades they've raised their children, contributed to Social Security and other retiitement funds, and anticipated activities such as travel

for her in their home. Her mother became ill, and Kathleen's sister, Linda Bauck, came to take care of them. After

their mother passed away, Bauck

fications to caregivers' lifestyles: 1. Research local resources in the community. For Bauck, her immediate need for medical

Do the minimum and accept

help.

4. Take care of yourself. Bauck is a member of the Wallowa

made household alterations, such as grab bars and wider doors, to facilitate McCrae residing with her.

"Talang care of Kathleen is some-

equipment was met by Lending Heart, a nonprofit located

Valley Photo Club and takes

in Wallowa. Donated items

capture images. She spends a

such as a hospital bed and a

lot of time on her computer de-

thing I knew I was always Then unexpectedly, an older parent going to do," Bauck said. "It was the or other family member suffers critical best situation. Our family is very suphealth issues that require in-home care. portive."

While improved medical pmAt 62 years old, McCrae recently ceduies may keep body systems experienced a stroke, which has functioning for longer, mobility changed the caregiving dynamics in

wheelchair were available for McCrae at no charge.

veloping photographic artwork and is helping with the design of the upcoming calendar produced annually by the club.

and hobbies, which seemjust around the comer.

issues and cognitive deterioration of

the home. She received immediate

an elderly family member or friend of- caie and is scheduled for physical ten lead to caiegiving being provided therapy, but paralysis on one side in the home. has limited her ability to help Linda Time and support aie necessary for transport her.

"When something major happens, functional adjustments to be madeby both the patient and the caiegiver for it changes the dynamics," Bauck said.

"Kathleen needs more technical care. the changed roles each falls into.

Kathleen McCrae sustained a trau- As a mey'ver, more is expected of me." maticbrain injury, commonly known Bauck said she has realized and as TBI, fiom a horse accident when she recommends four things to consider was a young girl. Her paients caied as new circumstances require modiThe Observer k Baker City Herald

2. Utilize the support of friends and family. When Bauck was bringing McCrae home from rehab in Portland, friends descended ontheirhome and set

short outings near her home to

"You don't want to lose your-

self into caregiving," she said.

Caregiving has its rewards.

McCrae has taken painting classes

up the equipment. "I feel rich in the lengths friends will go to under Jennifer Klimza at the help," Bauck praises. "EveryJosephy Center. The stimulation is body pitches in. They step up helpful, Bauck said.

"Kathleen is fun tobe around with good cheer, and laugh and joke." and considerate," Bauck said of her 3. Give yourself time. Avoid

trying to continue your precrisis activities. Develop new

routines and learn new equipment. Theincreased demands

of caregiving deplete energy.

sister. "She has a bright sense of

humor. I enjoy her personality.

"I'm following my mother's example," Bauck said. "She made a life for herself that fit in with being a caregiver."

Ageless

IT' N EVER T LATE T FALL IN For Max Lane and Carol Gunnels, it's never too late to find someone again. Both of them

Lane said. "I really liked to dance with her.

Then we go out to dinner a lot and just do so-

in Portland. Wy died about seven years ears ago. a

had been married previously, but years after theirspouses died, they each found someone

cial things."

participates in the dances it holds on a regular

again — at the Union County Senior Center.

Gunnels, 69, said she met Tom Hiatt, 79, a

anyone to date when they started their respec-

few years ago.

"I had known him before, for about three to four years," Gunnels said. "But we started

going out a year ago."

The pair had lunch at the center together "all the time," she said, and deciding to date was a mutual thing.

"My husband passed away 12 to 13 years ago and I hadn't seen anyone for 10 years," Gunnels

Neither Gunnels nor Lane was looking for tive relationships. Both admitted they fell into it.

"It just happened," Gunnels said. "You

Now, Lane goes to the senior center and basis.

"(Virginia) is a little older than me, but she doesn't look it. And she's really active too," he said. "She's one of the best dancers here. She is

get to talking and find you do have the same a sharp dancer and those two things take m interests and lived around the La Grande area."

For Lane too, he wasn't looking for someone to date but soon found himself a dancin ancing ing partner and someone he enjoyed spendin time with.

While Lane is enjoying dancing with Virginia, he doesn't intend to get married again any time soon, he said.

sai .

Lane, 92, has a similar story. He met Virginia McLaughlin, 95, at the center.

Gunnel, on the other hand, recently got "In respect for my wife, I wasn't lookinng engaged to Hiatt.

"We a re living together, and w e g o t around, Lane said. "I don't believe in thatI'm old fashioned. You have to respect that. engaged Nov. 4, on his birthday," she said.

"We've been together for a year, but we (My wife and I) were married for 63 years."

Lane's late wife, Wythel "Wy" Puckett, was haven't set a wedding date," she said.

"I usually came to the dances (the senior center puts on) and got (her) as a partner,"

from Cove. Lane said they moved ba k t Coove area after he retired from being a teacher

II

Gunnels said dating in 2015 is much different than it used to be.

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"It just happened,"Gunnelssaid. "Youget to talking andfind youdo have the same interests and lived around the La Grande area "

"Things have changed quite a bit," she said.

"When you're older, you have all your own stuff.

You're a bit more picky on who you're going with.

When you're younger you're impetuous. You

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think, 'this is the one.'"

Lane said dating someone his own age isn't that

much different than when he was younger.

"For older people, I haven't seen it change a whole lot," Lane said. "For younger people, yes.

If you want to meet someone your own age, then do it right here at the senior center. Most of the

people who come here are older. When you come to the center, it's really a good place for a social life.

There's a lot happening."

Lane and Gunnels both advocated strongly for

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the senior center.

"The senior center has more variety of people and it's enjoyable to go there," Gunnels said. "It's quite a good place to meet people."

Lane said there are dances during the senior lunch hour and there's more women than men

there â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and the women are looking for dance partners.

"There's a lot of women here that would be glad to have some guy," he said. "It's not a good problem to have (of having too many women). It keeps me busy."

Cherise Kaechele/Ageless

The Union County Senior Center holds daily hour-long dances during the lunch hour, but also holds a monthly dance. The senior center is a great place to meet other people, said Max Lane.

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Ageless

The Observer k Baker City Herald

COMM U N ITY CHOI RS

adding harmony and purpose to ives

By Trish Yerges, For Ageless We all live in a busy, noisy

years old. Among the group is Tom of themselves or their talents in a Madden, a retired English profesgroup setting for the enjoyment sor from Eastern Oregon Univer-

of others.

"I enjoy lending my voice to respite of harmony, balance and Community Choir in 2001 when he a community group of singers," fulfilling comradery when they was 64 years old and has been sing- said Madden. "It's helpful for a social kind of activity, and good joined their local community choir. ing as a bass voice in it ever since.

"I had always enjoyed singCommunity choirs are a mixed for an individual to be involved choral ensemble comprised of ing," Madden said. "I was in in a group. Also, you're sharing community volunteers of all choirs in my younger days, and something as part of a group with backgrounds and skill levels. after I retired, I found I had time an audience and that's a powerful Choirs also attract people of all to get back to it. I knew it was a motivation." resource because I taught at EastMadden said he also appreciages, from teenagers to college students to people in their 80s, atesthe audience feedback. He ern, and Peter Wordelman, (EOU but they are particularly a great music professor) had started the said it is important to have a "reciprocal sharing" between the hang-out for retirees. choir, so I knew it was ongoing." world, but some have found a

sity. He joined the Grande Ronde

"We'll often sing pieces that are challenging; you have to get your head in a different place which is really healthy, I think," said Madden. "Mike comes up with a healthy mix of pieces that are moderately difficult and some that are a little harder, which

challenges us. There have been studies that show that music and

playing instruments are excellent for the brain because you're using the brain a lot when you're singing. It's superb for brain activity for older adults who might be interested in that."

At the Grande Ronde Community Choir in La Grande, led by music director Mike Frasier, the

For many choir members, the satisfaction they derive from this vocation comes from their accom-

choir and the audience. its personal health benefits. It is men-

Those with physical limitations need not shy away from joining a community choir because

average age of its members is 50

plished sense of sharing or giving

tally and physically stimulating.

accommodations will be made to

The Observer k Baker City Herald

Singing in a community choir has

Ageless

address special needs.

for that and have parts in it."

"We make accommodations for the older members," said Frasier.

"I have one gentleman in his late

Frasier said that singing makes people feel good, and a choir is one place they can share that as a group.

"It's good for their soul," he said. "They like the comradery with other people working together because when we get

70s, early 80s who has trouble standing, and he has a pronged cane, and we make accommoda-

tions for him. Anybody who has limitations like that, we make accommodations for them. We either give them a way to sit or a

older we're not out and about

that much with people. We try to

way that their inability to stand can be worked around."

Some members havefound that community choirs can

become a springboard for additional musical involvements such as a community theater.

"Absolutely, there are a num-

because the voice is controlled by muscles, and if they aren't used

Thursday evenings during fall and

regularly in a singing manner, they tend to lose their ability to very much up to the individual.

Some singthe same as when they were 10 years younger, and for

it helps them stay in touch with other people in the community and the college students."

may not want to sing quite as high. The other thing might be that their breath support may not be quiteasgood because the mus-

member, but he added, "There Lady" production (at the Elgin are a lot of choir members my age Opera House), which is just going and older. Our balance is typical of most choirs, two female sing-

February, and a number of people

ers to every one male singer. The balance vocally is good. Typically, the men have sung a lot so they

from our chorus have auditioned

are more confident singers."

You have the right to choose...

winter quarters from 7 p.m. to 8:50 p.m. in Room ¹123 in Loso Hall

on the campus of Eastern Oregon

function as well. Frasier said it is

others, it is harder on them.

now who are in the "My Fair

into rehearsal now," said Maddon. "In fact, Mike Frasier is the director for that. It will open in

Frasier leads the Grande Ronde Community Choir rehearsals on

make it a little social, and when we rehearse, we rehearse, but we have a lot of fun doing it, so it becomes a little bit of a social activity for them. Members say

Frasier, 64, said he's is a little older than the average choir

ber of people in the chorus right

The maturevoice may change over the years for some people

"My own voice hasn't changed much since age 50, but changes tend to hit women a little more than men," said Frasier. "Women

University in La Grande. He welcomes any who want to sing, to

"just show up, and we'll register you." There is a registration fee of $25 per term for each member.

HOW CAN I JOIN7 Grande Ronde Community Choir Director: Mike Frasier Call: 541-910-1149

Registration fee: $25 per term

Baker Community Choir Asst Director: Kelly Brickman cles aren't quite as elastic as they Call: 541-523-9301 were when they were younger. So or Hannah Violette we accommodate that by singCall: 541-403-4618 ing music that showcases what Registration fee: $15 per season, they can do rather than what they with two seasons each year

can't do. It's like being a good coach, you run plays you know your players can do rather than what they can't do."

Wallowa Valley Chorale Director: Randy Morgan Call: 541-426-3593 Registration fee: none

THE NORDIC JOURNEY AT

Anthony

Get Well Closer to Home

Lakes

AskYourdoctor ... or hospital case manager... for a Referral

M O U N T R IN R E S O R T Enjoy the sheer beauty that is Eastern Oregon's Elkhorn Mountains in the winter with a breathtaking workout, one that captivates both your mind and your body. Whether out for a snowshoe or a ski, one can experience all that is an amazing trail system, located at 7,100 feet.

Some have deemed the 30 kilometers

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2016 Nordic Events • Sunday, March 13th-Annqal Winter Triathlon.

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F or detailed information go to: ~ V W . a n t h O n y l a k e S , C e •

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LaGrande Post Acute Care

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of groomed and track-set trails of Anthony Lakes as "world-class," others have called it simply "the only one of its kind."

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or contact the Anthony Lakes Nordic Center at 541-856-3277 x31 email nordic@anthonylakes.com The Observer k Baker City Herald

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

II IAIIIIARV22 E The Art of Henna: 6-7 p.m. Art Center East, 1006 Penn, La Grande. Learn henna history, materials, mixing, storage and after care. Beginning application techniques and styles.

Instructor is Elle Hutchins; $15 members, $20 non-members.

E Brian Bovenizer 8c the Koala Cowboys 7-10 p.m. Terminal Gravity Brewery Bt Pub, 803 School St., Enterprise.

$AiIAIIIIARV 23 E AARP Smart Driver Class: 9 a.m.4 p.m.Grande Ronde Hospital,900 Sunset Dr., La Grande. Participants may be eligible for auto insurance discounts; $15AARP members, $20 non-members.

E Concealed Handgun Class: 8 a.m.

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Union County Sheriff's Office, 1109 K Ave., La Grande.

Wishing Well Elevator Fundraiser: 6-8 p.m. Art Center East, 1006 Penn, • Cancer Support Group: 6:30 p.m.

La Grande. Live music, catered hors in the Mt. Emily Conference Room, d'oeuvres, wine and art. All proceeds Grande Ronde Hospital, 900 Sunset Dr., La Grande. go toward elevator fund; $35, $55 couple.

White Petunias Watercolor Workshop: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at Att Center East, 1006 Penn, La Grande.

Learn to paint: beautiful whites that • Still Life Drawing: 7-9 p.m. at the include colorful tints and shadows.

Josephy Center for Arts Bt Culture, Meets Jan. 23 and 30. $75 for 403 N. Main St.,Joseph.Hosted by members, $85 for non-members.

Sam Collett; $5-$10 is the suggested Live Music by Big Red Shark: donation.

7-10 p.m. Terminal Gravity Brewery Bt Pub, 803 School St., Enterprise.

Eagle Cap Extreme Awards Banquet: 5:30p.m.atthe Joseph Community Center. Includes mushers' tales from • Big Read Film Screening: of the trail; $20, $18 members, $12 Thornton Wilder's "Our Town" at 7 volunteers and handlers, age 5-12 $8, p.m. at the Fishtrap House, Josephy Center and Wallowa City Hall. younger than 5 free.

IAIIIIARV 21 W[P

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• A Colorful Hour: 5-6:30 p.m. at Att Center East,1006 Penn, La Grande.

Adult coloring session provides att therapy. Coffee provided by Antlers Espresso. Instructor is Darcy Dolge; $10 members, $15 non-members.

• Last Friday Jam: 7 p.m. at LG Brewskis, 267 S. Main St., Union.

$I IAIIIIARV39 • Beach Party at Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort: all day. Beachinspired activities, a Hawaiian inspired barbeque and live music by Pendleton's Eleventh Street Incident.

• Horse-drawn Tour: at 7:30 p.m. Geiser Grand Hotel,1996 Main St., Baker City.

See historic downtown Baker City, followed by hot chocolate; $24.

We have wonderful meals. for all you Slks: From the oldest cowpokes: to theyoungest buckaroo And even you clty s:llckers; too.

Famuua8tttciora atatSahdhn mums,otuttfcw etrsws3s

icken Chuc agonS adBar mema Desserts Amazin ornern Kids Menu BEEF'

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otfntry $I

Open by rese r v a t io n fo r p r i v at e p a r t i e s 5 4 1 -856-3639 1D miles North of Baker City on Hwy 3D in Downtown Haines, Oregon Open Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 8 Friday at4:30pm • Saturday at 3:30pm • Sunday at 12:30pm • Closed Tuesday w ww . h a i n e s s t e a k h o u s e . c o m

The Observer k Baker City Herald

Ageless

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

FEBRIIARV1 IIPN

• Burnt River Snowmobile Club Poker Run: 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Run is approximately 50 miles, from Unity to Austin Junction and back; buy-in $5 per hand (proceeds benefit food banks in three counties).

• Tole Painting Basics: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Crossroads Carnegie Art Center, 2020 Auburn Ave., Baker City. $50 for members, $75 for nonmembers.

E Writing Class for Grown-ups: 7-9 p.m. at Art Center East, 1006 Penn, La Grande. Conference your writing.

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$II5

E Brooklyn Book Fair 8c TacoFeed: 4:40 7:30 p.m. Baker County Events Center, 2600 East St. Baker City.

FEBRBARV1

• Tole Painting Basics: 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at Crossroads Carnegie Art Center, 2020 Auburn Ave., Baker Ciity. Learn the basics of stroke work and design. $50 E NationalWildTurkey Banquet fkAuction: for members, $75 for nonmembers. doors open at5 p.m. atthe Baker Elks Lodge ¹338, 1896Second St., Baker City E Horse-drawn Tour: 7:30 p.m. at Geiser Grand Hotel, 1996 Main St., Baker City.

See historic downtown Baker City, • Beginning Stained Glass: 6-8 p.m. at followed by hot chocolate; $24.

Art Center East,1006 Penn, LaGrande

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BAKER, UNION, WALLOWA

Meets Mondays Feb. 1 through March 14. $95 for members, $105 for nonmembers.

• Writing Class for Grown-ups: 7-9 p.m. at Art Center East, 1006 Penn, La Grande. Conference your book or short story. $30 for members, $35 for nonmembers.

• National Association of Retired fk Veteran Railway Employees: 9 a.m. at Denny's, 2604 Island Ave., La Grande.

• Union County Retired Educators, 11:30 a.m. Bear Mountain Pizza, 2104 Island Ave., La Grande.

• Still Life Drawing: 7-9 p.m. at Josephy Center for Arts BrCulture, 403 N. Main St., Joseph. Hosted by Sam Collett; $5$10 suggested donation.

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• Page Turners Book Club: 1 p.m. at Cook Memorial Library, 2006 Fourth St., La Grande.

• Beginning Pottery: 6-8 p.m. at Art • Stained Glass Terrarium Class: Center East,1006 Penn, La Grande.

6:30-9 p.m. at Art Center East, 1006 Meets Thursdays in February. $80 members, $85 non-members.

Penn,LaGrande.Design,cutand solder stained glass for a one-of-a-kind piece. • The Art of Investing: 6:45-8 p.m. at MeetsTuesdays in February. $100 for Art Center East,1006 Penn, La Grande. members, $110for nonmembers.

Develop a plan for art investment andl or investing in your own art business.

Instructor is Shawn Magnum; $35 members, $40 non-members.

FEBRIIARV19 NJPP

Community Connection of Northeast Oregon, Inc. www.ccno.org

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Administrative Office: 2802 Adams Ave, La Grande, OR 97850 • 541-963-3186 Margaret Davidson, Executive Director '

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We Care About Your Health All Ages Welcome: Call for information on class times and location: • Diabetes Self Management Program starting in early 2016 • Diabetes Prevention Program • Chronic Pain Self Management • Living Well with Chronic Conditions • Powerful ToolsforC aregivers Ongoing Fun Activities • Tai Chi • Tai Ji Quan • Pilates • Chair Exercises • Stretch • Flex Exercise • Line Dancing

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The missian af Cammunrty Cannectran af Nartheast Oregan, Inc is ta advacate far and assist seniar atizens, children, law incame persans and persans with disabilities in attarnrng basic human needs and in becaming mare self suffiaent

Ageless

The Observer k Baker City Herald

She Prefers A Long Walk.

He loves finishing the crossword. She can't sit still through breakfast.

She celebrates life with gusto. He yawns through game night.

They may be opposites, but they can agree on one thing: Grande Ronde Retirement and Assisted Living gives them enough options to make them both happy.

GRANDE

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R etirement & A s si s ted Li v i n g

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Ageless

An expert in cardiologyAnd happy, healthy hearts.

Emilia Arden, DO, FACC When should I visit a Cardiologist?

Onset of symptoms such as an irregular heartbeat, elevated cholesterol or elevated blood pressure Inherited risk of cardiovascular disease Recommendation or referral from your primary care provider

The GRH Cardiology Clinic

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The Observer k Baker City Herald