Ageless Senior Guide 2015

Page 1

For THe ACTiVe, exPerieNCeD seNiors • HeAlTH, liFesTyle & ADViCe

Ageless SUMMER 2015

For the love of music Seniors dominate local music scenes on the coast

GeTTiNG PHysiCAl skiing, hiking & marathons provide elixir of life

Preserving memories

keep special events alive with scrapbooking projects

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Page 2 — Ageless 2015

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Ageless SUMMER 2015

Ageless features: Skiing: A life-long passion .................................................... 5 Local senior stays healthy and happy skimming the water in Oregon and California. Coast Guard Auxiliary a good fit ........................................ 7 Members of the Crescent City organization gain satisfaction and provide a much-needed service to the community. Hiking keeps Kramer young ................................................ 9 Gold Beach resident and retired teacher spends time with family exploring local hiking trails. For the love of music ........................................................... 11 Curry and Del Norte counties offer thriving music scenes, with most members over the age of 50. Community theater good for the soul............................. 14 Three local theaters offer seniors plenty of opportunities to act, sing, dance and direct. The rewards of physical fitness ........................................ 18 Seniors stay fit participating in strenuous, 100-mile races or easy-going morning strolls along the beach. Rogue River Trail is their gym .......................................... 21 Friends find good health and satisfaction as they keep forest from reclaiming 2.2-mile section of beautiful hiking trail. Eating right, eating well ..................................................... 22 Seven foods that should always be a part of your daily and weekly diet. Preserving memories ........................................................... 25 After a fun trip or special event, keep the memories alive with scrapbooking projects. Top 10 estate planning mistakes........................................ 26 Everyone should have an estate plan in place, no matter the age or income level.

Submitted photo

Crescent City resident Dan Gray, 70, swims from Lani to Maui during an open water competition in Hawaii. See his story on Page 18.

Ageless is a product of the Curry Coastal Pilot (Brookings, Oregon) and the Del NorteTriplicate (Crescent City, Calif.) It was printed by the Bulletin Western Communications Commercial Printing Division. All content is the property of the Curry Coastal Pilot/Del NorteTriplicate, owned by Western Communications, Inc., and may not be reproduced without written permission. Story ideas for future Ageless magazines may be submitted to Scott Graves, editor of the Curry Coastal Pilot, or Matt Durkee, editor of the Del NorteTriplicate. Graves can be reached at 541-469-3123 or via e-mail at sgraves@currypilot.com. Durkee can be reached at 541-464-2141 or via email at mdurkee@triplicate.com. For advertising, call the Curry Coastal Pilot at 541-469-3123 and the Del Norte Triplicate at 707-464-2141. Published Saturday, July 18, 2015.

Page 4 —Ageless 2015

Skiing is a life-long passion for Nelson Pilot staff writer

When she was just 13 years old, Beverly Nelson was invited to go out on the waters of the Sacramento River. “We lived on a little island, near Rio Vista (California), and a neighbor got a little boat and some skis and said, ‘Do you want to go skiing?’ said Nelson, a Brookings resident since 2001. “I had never seen anybody ski; this was 1947. That first time I went, I was scared to death, but I knew really liked it.” That encounter began a lifetime passion between Nelson and water skiing, one that remains as strong as ever after 67 years. “There is just nothing like doing a sport that you really

enjoy,” expressed Nelson. “And I’m pretty proficient at it after all these years.” Nelson is an example of the benefits of living a healthy, active lifestyle well into life. The 80-year-old still waterskis frequently, taking four to five trips a year to various locations in southern Oregon and to her hometown along the Sacramento River. “It’s imperative (for my health). I watch my weight, eat right, don’t drink or smoke and just try to stay as healthy as possible,” said Nelson, who attributes the work she has put in at the gym in to helping her remain on her water skis. “Because I need the upper body strength, I go to the gym six days a week. I hate it but I See Nelson, Page 7

Submitted photo

Beverly Nelson continues to enjoy her passion for water skiing, making trips from Brookings to locations in Oregon and California, including the Sacramento River.

By Ryan Sparks

Ageless 2015 — Page 5

Page 6 —Ageless 2015

Coast Guard Auxiliary a good fit By Michael Zogg Triplicate staff writer

When Jeff Leighton, 62, moved to Del Norte County 10 years ago, he was looking for an opportunity to volunteer and give back to the community. As a Certified Public Accountant, Leighton initially decided that joining the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program seemed like a logical choice, but it didn’t stick. “I decided that wasn’t right for me because when you are working umpteen hours a day you don’t really want to spend your time off doing more of the same,” Leighton said. “So I said to myself, ‘I need to do something that is completely different from what I do for a living.’” As an avid whitewater and ocean kayaker, Leighton decided to focus on a volunteer opportunity that aligned more with his preferred pastime. With some background in search and rescue, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 8­11 in Crescent City seemed like the perfect fit. He was initially drawn to the flotilla because he loves the water and it fit well with

Nelson

Continued from Page 5

do it. I have to for my muscles. From 1989 to 2001, we lived on a 54-foot powerboat and we were travelling all the time. We went to British Columbia, Mexico, Central America and South America. In that time, I only skied maybe once a year. So when we arrived (in Brookings) in 2001, I bought a ski boat and

Photo by Bryant Anderson

Bev Noll, middle, instructs members of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary FLotilla 811 during training at an indoor swimming pool.

his background. The best part about being on the auxiliary’s SAR squad, however, is the continuing challenges it pres-

ents. “I consider myself a lifelong learner,” Leighton said. “When you are with the Coast Guard

you have access to Coast Guard training programs. For me it is an opportunity to learn a ton See Auxiliary, Page 8

had a hard time getting up (to water ski) the first time. So I owe it all to going to the gym for sure.” Water skiing has become an activity the entire family enjoys. “My kids all ski. Both my children are expert skiers and I have two grandchildren that are very good,” she said. “It’s one of the reasons we go to Sacramento for a month (each year). We get together and go

to the beach and have a good ol’ time.” Nelson performed pyramid style stunts and water ballet tricks while water skiing with the Sacramento Waterski Club in her younger years. Though her days of performing expert-level stunts are behind her, Nelson still loves carving through the water. “I like to jump the wake,” she said enthusiastically. “I used to do tricks but don’t do

them anymore. I just do it for fun. There is just nothing like it. I get up on that ski and that’s the ultimate for me.” Water skiing has brought Nelson physical and mental benefits as well as being an exercise her entire family enjoys. “It’s something to look forward to,” she said. “My whole family gets together in the summer and we all water ski. It’s just a general good thing.” Ageless 2015 — Page 7

Auxiliary Continued from Page 7

Submitted photo

Members of the Crescent City Coast Guard Auxiliary patrol an area offshore in a 29-foot search and rescue boat.

ing search and rescue, and we have,� Stewart said. “The main reason that I joined was the boat — the search and rescue part of it and saving

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lives. The more I got into it I realized that there is a lot more to it. Educating the public is just as important.â€? Education has become the main focus of Bev Noll, former flotilla commander and founding member of the USCG Auxiliary Flotilla 8­11. “Right now I concentrate on vessel exams, both commercial and recreational,â€? Noll said. “I also work on a lot of education projects with children in the schools, handing out life vests and fire safety. And of course when there is a party to plan I love to jump in and do that.â€?

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of stuff that I didn’t know a lot about before. I have gotten training for professional handling, rescue protocols, radio communications operations that we do, navigation, radar operation — just a huge variety of things.â€? USCG Auxiliary Flotilla 8­11 Commander DeAnna Stewart, who is a recent addition to the older than 50 club, said she initially got involved with the local auxiliary because of its unique status as one of the only flotillas that operates Coast Guard equipment — namely a 29­-foot search and rescue boat. “My father was a commercial fisherman and I found out that private citizens can join the auxiliary and can be crew members on the Coast Guard boat. I really wanted to give back to the fishermen by do-

Noll, who is over 70 (though she declined to specify exactly how much over), has spent her entire life in and around water. As a former commercial fisherman herself, boating safety is an issue about which she and the rest of the flotilla are passionate. “It is something that we are very proud of,� Noll said. “It is something that we do with our hearts as well as our minds. We believe in safety and we believe all mariners deserve some sort of safety net out there.� Stewart said one of the best ways to start getting involved with the auxiliary is to attend one of its meetings, held on the fourth Wednesday of every month. There is no previous experience required to volunteer, though anyone who patrols in the boat must complete training and competency tests. If the flotilla isn’t for you, however, Leighton points out that there are plenty of other opportunities to give back. “There are a lot of organizations that people can volunteer for that do a lot of important things,� he said. “It takes a big tent full of a lot of really good people doing a lot of different things to make this community work as well as it does.�

Hiking keeps Kramer young By Randy Robbins Pilot staff writer

“I’ve always loved to hike,” said Ann Kramer, a retired elementary school teacher approaching the age of 80. Maybe it was chasing around all those children that has kept her young at heart. For Kramer, regular exercise has been a lifelong common theme in her life, and these days she’s never felt better. For Kramer, healthy living started at her father’s dinner table. “If there was food I didn’t especially like, all my dad needed to say was, ‘This will make you run fast and jump high,’ and I would gobble it right down!” Kramer starts her day early every morning on the beach.

She runs a mile-and-a-half, walking the return trip. No couch potato, Ann shuns television and reads books and writes in her journal. She has authored several biographical books to keep her mind sharp as a tack. She doesn’t use a computer but bangs out copy on a typewriter. When she married her husband, John, the newlyweds canoed for 10 days on the border regions between Minnesota and Canada. The exercise bug had the entire Kramer clan, parents and children, taking regular hikes, often 10 miles in duration. It is something Kramer loves and still does at least once a month with her grown son, Mark, since her husband died. See Hiking, Page 28

Submitted photo

Three generations of Kramers (left to right) Ann, Benjamin and Mark enjoy a hike together.

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For The

LOVE

OF MUSIC Spectrum Sounds By Jayati Ramakrishnan and Jessica cejnar Pilot and Triplicate staff writers

The communities in Curry and Del Norte counties offer a thriving music scene, with most of its active members older than 50. For some it’s playing folk and rock music, for others it’s classical piano and orchestral pieces. Some have played since childhood, others learn to play later in life.

Spectrum Sounds “When we started Spectrum Sounds in 2010,” said guitarist and singer John Marshall, “we didn’t really have anything. We had people and the desire to play.” Marshall, his wife Dorothy, Rick Weaver and Sharon Guinn make up the Brookings band, which plays at local venues including the Second Saturday Art Walks, annual festivals and senior centers. See Music, Page 12

Christy Dolan Ageless 2015 — Page 11

Music

Continued from Page 11

When the band first got together, Marshall, the founder of the group, did some research and collected a set of songs for the band to play. The members of the band all have previous musical experience. Dorothy, in her late 40s, grew up learning music and sang in choirs and ensembles throughout college and afterward she never really played an instrument until she picked up the dulcimer a few years ago. Weaver, Guinn and Marshall, all in their 60s, have played their respective instruments since their teens. Weaver picked up the bass in high school and taught himself to play. He’s made what he calls a “paying hobby” out of the instrument ever since, playing with different groups. Guinn received a guitar at age 13 and taught herself the chords, and has always been part of a band. Marshall played in a band during high school, but stopped playing from 1964 to 2000. “I never picked up a guitar, never listened to the radio — I was busy with service work and school work,” he said. Filling the gaps from his time away from music, Marshall began recalling songs from his youth that he wanted

“It’s a creative outlet. We’re pretty good at it, and we got a zillion years of experience between all of us.” — Musician Doug Vanderpool

to play. The band’s repertoire now spans 300 songs, 150 artists and about three decades — primarily the 1960s, ’70s and ’80s — with a few exceptions. They play a variety of music, often favoring country and easy listening. “We like music with a story behind it,” Marshall said. “We like Simon and Garfunkel, Peter Paul and Mary — those

types of music. We’re very heavy on the Eagles and Creedence Clearwater Revival.” The band’s versatility has inspired not only their music, but their name. “Our tastes are wide,” Marshall said. “We take the sounds of different emotions — a spectrum of sounds. That’s where the name came from.” With Marshall and Guinn on guitar, Dorothy on the mountain dulcimer and Wheeler on bass, the band has a gentle, acoustic sound. All members contribute on vocals, and they try to elicit an element of nostalgia with their music. “Our goal is to bring music that’s touched people’s lives,” said Marshall. “I wanted to play music that brings out good memories for people.” Guinn adds that the group’s chemistry adds to the experience. “They’re just wonderful people,” she said. “They reach out beyond the music. It’s just a good friendship.” Dorothy recalled one of the most gratifying sights for the group when they perform. “We were playing at Good Samaritan Curry Village,” she said. “What really got me is that many people were infirmed, or had Alzheimer’s — and they’d be sitting there all slumped over. And all of a sudden, you’ll see them tap-

ping their feet. Then they’ll slowly lift up their heads, and soon you’ll see them mouthing the words.” She smiled. “We’re communicating with them in a language they haven’t forgotten.”

Rock and roll soul Some days Doug Vanderpool can’t believe he’s been playing music for 51 years. That’s the case for many of his friends in True North, a Crescent City­-based group that plays R&B, blues, classic rock and original songs, Vanderpool says. After all these years, Vanderpool still gets a rush when he appears onstage before an adoring audience. “It’s a symbiotic relationship between you and the crowd,” he said. “They’re getting off and you’re getting off. It’s a good thing.” Vanderpool, 63, who sings and plays guitar and harmonica, said his love affair with music began as a youngster. His mother played piano, but with three little kids at home, the only time she could practice was when her kids went down for a nap. “I used to nap under her baby grand piano and go to sleep with her playing classical music,” Vanderpool said. “I think that’s probably what made me love music; my mother’s influence.” Continued on next page

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are musicians,â€? he said. “It’s something that’s been in the family, and it’s been near and dear to my heart. We like to go out and have a good time, and playing is a good time.â€? Like Vanderpool, Reynolds also does guitar and vocals. He pointed out that many locals want to go to a bigger city to find great music but don’t know what they’re missing. “You’ve got all this great music and people don’t realize what they have here,â€? he said. Like Vanderpool and Reynolds, Tim Borges got an early start in music. Borges, who’s in his mid-­50s, became a drummer when he was in grammar school. He participated in band in junior high and high school, learning all of the percussion instruments he could. Borges even helped produce an album with the Morro Bay High School jazz band that was played on San Luis Obispo public radio. He was also in the San Luis Obispo County youth symphony and the adult symphony. Borges, who did percussion and vocals with the group Patchy Fog & Drizzle, said he’s currently focused on hand drums, like congas and the cajon, a boxed­shape percussion instrument from Peru. “Right now the cajon I have that I play has a guitar string stretched across the front wooden head,â€? Borges said.

get back to playing live music. Borges said he’s currently expanding his repertoire by learning how to play guitar. His wife plays guitar and bass, and his whole family loves to sing. “We may have a family band in a few years,� he joked, adding that he often frequents the open mic sessions at Zola’s Pizzeria at noon on Sundays. “I just enjoy music. I see myself doing it probably more than a hobby because I like to do it when I can.�

Marshall Thompson

“It’s an avocation — a hobby in retirement. I’ve found it to be very enjoyable.� — Musician Marshall Thompson

“It has a snare drum sound on the sides, and you could hit all sides of the box and get all kinds of different tones. We put two microphones on it and it sounded like a drum set with all the different sounds.� Borges also spent several years as a DJ and helped set up sound systems for bands playing on stage. Eventually, he decided that he wanted to

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Marshall Thompson, a guitarist and singer who performs at local venues such as Brookings’ Second Saturday Art Walks and Vista Pub, started playing music as a way to support the art community. “Horst Wolf, one of the founders of the art walks, invited me to sing and perform in galleries,� Thompson said. “All credit goes to him.� Thompson, 66, spent four decades doing choral work, assisting with opera workshops in the music department at California State University, Chico. Though he trained in classical and choral music, the style of music he favors now is a little different, and goes back even further in his musical heritage, drawing on some of his early inspirations. See Music, Page 28

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Vanderpool started out as a drummer and got his first paid gig at 12. He picked up the harmonica because of its portability and began playing the guitar when he was a junior in high school. When he graduated high school, Vanderpool said he went to Eugene, hitchhiked to Colorado and went to college briefly in Santa Cruz, California. In the late ’80s and the ’90s he was often on tour up and down the West Coast with a band he founded in Humboldt County. Vanderpool said he’s been part of groups with names like Mack the Fork, Dr. Ross and the Hellhounds and Doug Vanderpool and the Swamis of Soul. He even opened for B.B. King and other blues stars. Today, Vanderpool plays with Buck Green, Dale Morgan and Milann Reynolds with True North. Reynolds, 60, said he has been playing with Green, Morgan and Vanderpool for about 40 years. “It’s something we enjoy,� he said. “It’s a creative outlet. We’re pretty good at it, and we got a zillion years of experience between all of us.� Reynolds has been a musician since age 9, starting off on sax, guitar and keyboards. He played in the Redwood Union Band at Redwood School and went on from there. “Both of my older brothers

Ageless 2015 — Page 13

Community theater is good for the soul

By Jessica Cejnar, Jayati Ramakrishnan and Randy Robbins

been in Del Norte County for two or three years, tried out. “I got the part of Editor Webb, and I got hooked again,” he said. “I like to say if you get kids young enough it takes a 12­-step program to get them out of theater. It’s that addictive.” McGlasson is one of many seniors in Curry and Del Norte counties who have caught the acting bug. He has been with LRT since 1994 and has expe-

rience both onstage and behind the scenes. McGlasson’s theater experience goes back to the third grade. Growing up in Forest Grove, Oregon, McGlasson was involved with plays in high school and college. As an adult, McGlasson worked with a theater company in the Portland area called the Nuthouse. It was there that he directed his first play in 1973. See Theater, Page 16

Pilot and Triplicate staff writers

It took one audition to get Crescent City resident Dan McGlasson hooked on community theater. It had been two decades since he had done any theater. Life — and kids — got in the way. But when he saw a notice in the newspaper that Lighthouse Repertory Theatre (LRT) was auditioning for the Thornton Wilder play “Our Town.” McGlasson, who had only

Page 14 — Ageless 2015

“I’ve met so many people I never would because of theater. I love it! I’ll always find a way to have theater in my life� — Brookings actor/director Colleen Harrison

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Theater

Continued from Page 15

“It was the “Gingerbread Lady,� and I directed it and built the set pretty much all by myself,� he said. Since he became involved with LRT, McGlasson has acted, helped build sets and directed several plays. As an actor, he once reprised the role of Henry (the old actor) in “The Fantasticks,� one he had played about 20 or 30 years prior. As a director, McGlasson has been involved with “Steel Magnolias,� “Odd Couple — The Female Version,� “Nuncrackers� and “The Music Man.� “In ‘Odd Couple — The Female Version,’ the whole cast came together just like a family,� McGlasson said. “It was very moving, and they did such a great job. I was really proud of that one.�

Submitted photo

Don Woods and Beth Jensen have spent many years acting together and apart on the stage of EllensburgTheater in Gold Beach.

McGlasson has also directed kids shows and several LRT melodramas, a tradition the theater group holds every Fourth of July. He most recently directed LRT’s youth

melodrama “Rascals Under the Big Top.� “I love to see kids come out of themselves and gain that confidence,� he said. “They have an incredible amount of

energy, and you have to kind of tone them down a little bit, but they’re just absolutely wonderful.â€? Furthermore, being involved in community theater is an excellent activity for people young and old, McGlasson said. “It gives you a sense of community and it helps you build your self­-esteem,â€? he said. “One of the biggest challenges people have is speaking in public. Once you get over that stage fright and you can get on there and become someone else, it gives you a better feeling about yourself and a certain power.â€? ~~~ Brookings resident Philip Dolan, 73, has been acting with the Chetco Pelican Players (CPP) for several years. Though he had taken drama classes in high school, Philip had not been involved with theater for a long time when a friend who was on the board of

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the CPP approached him about acting. “They were doing a production of ‘Harvey,’ and a board member said to me, ‘I can’t imagine anyone but you playing the judge,’” Philip said. “I’d only been in one play, but I like trying new things, and I like a challenge. So I auditioned, and I got the part.” Dolan has since been in three plays, and prefers the smaller roles to ones with a lot of lines. His favorite part of community theater is meeting a variety of people. “People have different backstories,” he said, “some of which are entirely foreign to me. But we all have the play in common. It’s like a family.” ~~~ Although she had never had any prior experience with the theater, 16 years ago, Colleen Harrison decided to try out for a play and ended up finding a passion that has stayed with

her. “I was auditioning for a play in Port Orford,” she said. “I’d never done it before. I got talked into directing instead — and I’ve been directing ever since.” Harrison, 54, is involved with the Brookings-Harbor Community Theater, and has had experience with many aspects of shows — acting, sound and set building —but her favorite is directing. She picks the shows she directs, and while she’s done a variety of genres, favors comedies. “I like shows that are funny, and tear-jerkers,” she said, recalling a play she once directed called “Rented Christmas” — a show about a man who didn’t have any family, so he “rented” some orphans to be his family for Christmas. “People talked about it for a long time. That’s the kind of show I like to do.” Harrison also enjoys seeing her vision come to life in a play,

Submitted photo

Patrick Dodgen, right, has joined several family members on stage.

and has learned a lot from watching other directors. “I learned that the director has a vision and yes, there’s a

script — but you don’t always have to follow it,” she said. “It’s OK to make it more ‘you,’ rather than struggle.” Harrison also finds great joy in watching her actors bring a show to life. “When a cast gets really into their characters, it can be better than I imagined,” she said. “The talent in this area is amazing.” Harrison adds that she encourages people with all levels of experience to try theater, if they have an interest. “I always try to get someone new, that I’ve never worked with before, on stage,” she said. In addition to her love for directing and working with actors, Harrison enjoys the connections she’s made. “I’ve met so many people I never would because of theater,” she said. “I love it. I’ll always find a way to have theater in my life.” See Theater, Page 29

Ageless 2015 — Page 17

The rewards of

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It is no secret that physically fit adults age better than their more sedentary counterparts. According to the surgeon general, physical activity can reduce anxiety and depression along with risk of high blood pressure, colon cancer, diabetes and coronary heart disease, all while helping maintain healthy bones, muscles and joints. Physical activity can be as strenuous as a 100-mile race or as easy-going as a morning stroll on the beach. “Just get out there and move,” said Russ Burnette, director of the Crescent City Triathlon, who at 67 years old is a triathlete himself. “Walking is probably the greatest exercise, and anybody can do that. If you just walk 2 or 3 miles a day you will feel great. Otherwise you will just find yourself stuck to a couch somewhere getting fat and lazy.” And there are few better places in the world to get out and get moving than the Wild Rivers Coast. “This is the hiking capital of the world,” said Crescent City resident Susan Roberts, who will turn 70 in August. “There is so much to do.” And Roberts wants to do some of it all. “My goal is to be able to run a triathlon, which is swimming, biking and running,” Roberts said. “I also make sure that I lift weights because I think that is important regardless of what else I do.” Roberts said her interest in triathlons started with the Crescent City Triathlon shortly after she moved to the area from San Diego about 12 years ago. Roberts previously had been interested in biking, so when she happened upon a pair of gentlemen — one a runner and one a swimmer — who wanted to put a triathlon team together the morning of the event, she quickly agreed to complete the team. Roberts didn’t think about the triathlon again for the next two years. After all, she didn’t know how to swim and she wasn’t a runner. Eventually, she decided she wanted to give it a go anyway. “I started thinking, well maybe I could doggy paddle, maybe I could walk, and I know I can bike. So I decided to see what I could do in the triathlon,” Roberts said. “I started talking to people and was able to find a young woman to coach me in swimming. I am still not very fast, but she taught me a ton.”

Submitted photos

ABOVE: Russ Burnette, director of the Crescent CityTriathlon, is a triathlete himself. LEFT: Ralph Hirt, right, with the 2015 RWRR 10K winner Brett Hutton. Hirt says he is addicted to running.

See Fitness, Page 20 Ageless 2015 — Page 19

Fitness

Continued from Page 19

While learning to swim, Roberts also started to improve her endurance on land. “I started running from one telephone pole to the next and then walking,” she said. “It was a very gradual start.” Today, Roberts said she exercises 12 to 15 hours per week, spread between running, biking and swimming. Roberts said she never could have reached that point if she hadn’t found a strong support system, including regularly planning to meet with a group of locals for a run, bike or swim. “Unless someone is waiting there for you to show up, you might sleep in. I think the hardest thing when you are not used to it is to get self-motivated,” Roberts said. “If I hadn’t had this group in town that all worked together and met to go for runs, it would have been difficult. Knowing someone is there makes you think, ‘I’d bet-

ter show up today.’” Ralph Hirt, organizer of the Redwood Wild River Run, said he probably couldn’t stop running if he tried. “I don’t think of it so much as a physical fitness thing for me. I have run for 30 years, and I am an addict,” Hirt said with a laugh. “Just like having a cigarette or alcohol, I am an addict, so I run every day. I enjoy it and I enjoy the people that I meet.” For 30 years, Hirt estimated that he has run 26 road marathons and more than 150 ultramarathons. He has accomplished his first goal, to run a 100-mile race at the age of 70. Hirt said his last two goals are to run a 50-mile race at the age of 80 and to run a marathon at the age of 90. In order to do that, Hirt will have to stay healthy. Luckily, he knows the key to keeping your knees fresh into old age. “The secret to having good knee joints into your old age: No. 1: Keep your weight light.

“Knowing someone is there makes you think, ‘I’d better show up today.’” — Susan Roberts, 70

“No. 2: Get off of pavement and run on trails. And No. 3 — and by far the most important of all: Be very careful when you pick who your parents are going to be. If you have good genes, you will

have good knees. If you have bad genes you will have bad knees.” For Dan Gray, 70, it wasn’t so much genetics as a life’s worth of car wrecks and construction accidents that have left lasting aches and pains. That is why swimming is the activity for him. “It is low impact and there is no gravity. You can do things in the water that you can’t do on land,” said Gray, who is the director of the Wild Rivers Coast Masters Swim Club. “If running is pounding your body, you can do exercises, not just swimming but things like water aerobics classes at the pool.” Due to the low­-impact nature of swimming, Gray is able to work out three or four times per week and push himself to his limit without destroying his body. “I love the challenge. I participate in open water swims, and in order to complete the activity you have to be in shape,” Gray said. “It takes a lot of training and preparation.”

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Page 20 — Ageless 2015

Rogue River trail is their gym By Randy Robbins Pilot staff writer

Kathie Cotter of Gold Beach and Gary Maschmeyer of Brookings are California transplants. Cotter, 74, hails from San Francisco, where she said there were “a gazillion trails to walk, run and hike on.”

Upon arriving in Gold Beach in 2005, she was shocked to learn that there were only a few trails in such a nature-rich area. She shared her concerns with longtime resident Walt Schroeder, a perennial outdoors man who agreed. That same day the two headed up the Rogue River where Cotter outlined her dream of

building a trail along the river approximately seven miles from town. Schroeder made some contacts with the Trail Busters, a local group that builds trails. A year later, after untold hours of hard physical labor, the Rogue River Walk became a reality. See Trail, Page 28

The Pilot / Randy Robbins

Kathie Cotter, left, and Gary Maschmeyer maintain the Rogue River Walk near Gold Beach.

Ageless 2015 — Page 21

Eating Right Eating Well

â– â– Seven foods that should always be a part of your daily and weekly diet By Laura Kessinger

WesCom News Service

While there is still no pill or secret to staying forever young, we do have the ability to add days or even years to our life — and life to our days and years — by giving our bodies the finest fuel possible. Supplements and superfruits may get all the press, but

look no further than these seven easy-to-find and easyto-prepare foods for energy, protection and longevity. “It’s all about the phytonutrients,� according to Oregon nutritionist Lori Brizee. Unlike vitamins and minerals, which can be consumed in supplements, phytonutrients must be obtained direct-

ly from fresh (or very lightlycooked) fruits and vegetables. These natural, plant-based chemicals — such as betacarotene, lutein and lycopene — help counteract the three causes of premature aging and degenerative diseases: inflammation, oxidative stress and inadequate detoxification.

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“You can’t get it from a pill,� stressed Brizee. “You really do have to consume the whole fruit or vegetable to get the benefits.� Restrictive fad diets may have clouded our reason by vilifying familiar foods, but the good news is that there are no bad fruits or vegetables. Current guidelines suggest 2 cups of fruit and 2 1/2 cups of vegetables per day as ideal. Get ready to raise the bar, however: The U.S. Department of

Agriculture and the Department of Health and Human Services are about to increase the “five-a-day� benchmark to nine. No matter how short we fall from the ever-changing, onesize-fits-all national nutritional recommendations, one thing is certain: Science and logic keep pointing to vegetables and fruit as the number one tangible ally for health and well-being.

Dark leafy greens When it comes to anti-aging and disease-preventing foods, dark leafy greens such as spinach, kale and Swiss chard provide concentrated sources of vitamins C, K and E, betacarotene, folate and lutein. These greens are champions of collagen production and strong contributors to the growth and repair of the body’s tissues, people should aim to consume three 1-cup servings per week. See Eating, Page 24

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Eating

Continued from Page 23

Enjoy them sauteed with white wine and butter, or try them raw and softened with flavored vinegars.

Citrus fruits Don’t tell apples, but it may be an orange a day that keeps the doctor away. Full of immune-boosting vitamin C, cancer-preventing phytonutrients and cholesterol-lowering flavones, three, 1/2-cup servings of citrus per week can help prevent kidney stones, protect against rheumatoid arthritis and improve cardiovascular health. Add whole, peeled fruits to smoothies or use fresh zest to flavor marinades, steamed veggies or rice.

Dark yellow/orange veggies Acting as antioxidants to neutralize harmful free-radi-

cals that damage cells and tissues, the carotenoids provide pumpkins, squash and carrots their deep yellow and orange color. For healthy eyes and immune function, just four, 1/2cup servings per week provide the necessary alpha-carotene, beta-carotene and beta-cryptoxanthin — which are converted by the body into vitamin A. Try tossing cubed veggies with olive oil and rosemary and oven-roasting until browned.

Berries While it’s true that berries can be spendy these days, the cost of ill-health will always be greater! So go ahead and splurge on antioxidant-rich blueberries, dark and delicious blackberries and hearthealthy, vitamin-C-packed strawberries. The darker the color, the higher the concentration of phytochemicals to keep your memory sharp, your

cells healthy and your blood pressure in check. Achieve the recommended three, 1/2-cup servings per week by adding to smoothies, salads or cereal.

Cruciferous veggies High in vitamins C and K and the phytonutrient sulforaphane, broccoli is just one of the heavy hitters from this group of health-promoting veggies. Just three, 1-cup servings per week from the cabbage family — which also includes bok choy and Brussels sprouts — has been linked to lower risks of cancer and chronic disease. Steam lightly, then sprinkle with Italian dressing and balsamic vinegar.

Nuts Packed with protein and full of fiber, nuts are also the single best non-seafood source for heart-healthy Omega-3 fatty acids. As nutrient-dense

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as they are delicious, a day’s supply of selenium can be found in a single Brazil nut. Pop pistachios for potassium and cashews for iron and zinc. Consuming five, 1-ounce servings per week helps fight inflammation, protect against age-related memory loss and keep cholesterol levels low.

Salmon Like other fatty fish such as lake trout, albacore tuna and arctic char, wild salmon has earned its reputation as a superfood for its exceptional fatty acid profile (high in Omega-3, low in Omega-6) and its high concentrations of vitamins and minerals. Pan-seared, grilled, poached or baked, two, 3-ounce servings per week are a tasty way to prevent cardiovascular disease, reduce the risk of cancer and improve cell and brain function.

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Preserving memories Everyone loves looking back on good memories, looking through old pictures or little keepsakes from the past. Creating a scrapbook is an enjoyable activity for all ages, but for seniors it’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate their personal adventures — from days gone by or recent trips — while incorporating the newer experiences of more recent generations. Scrapbooking is a terrific way to not only store your pictures but to help keep the memories alive, to preserve photos, document family history, record travels and adventures, and create a beautiful keepsake. The best part about scrapbooking is you don’t necessarily have to be artistic to create one. Scrapbooking can be as easy as putting photos and trinkets in a photo album. Scrapbooking can help refresh memories as well as keep their mind and hands busy.

Getting started A common form of making a scrapbook is by arranging

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photos either chronologically or grouping such as family gatherings, vacations, birthdays, holidays or individuals. Stickers or handwritten captions can be added within the pages of the book to personalize or clarify events. Embellishments can be used to add texture or the illusion of a small frame. Other items can include could be pressed flowers, ticket stubs, birth announcements or theater guides. Not sure where to start? Below are a few simple tips: •Get organized — Gather all of your materials (materials can be found at craft stores).

•Think chronologically — Put all of your photos in chronological order. •Lay it out — Lay out scrapbooking paper, tape and decorations. •Pick a theme — Consider if it’s a vacation, wedding, holiday, etc. •Start a Layout — Before gluing and taping, lay out the photos, postcards, invitations, etc. on the scrapbook paper the way you want them to look. •Share your artwork — The best part about creating a scrapbook is being able to share it with others.

Digital scrapbooking As more seniors go online and learn about software programs, they soon find out they can do more with their computers. At first, computer technology can seem intimidating, but the benefits for seniors that have computer skills are endless, especially for those whose health or lack of transport keep them close to home. When learning about computers, it is a great idea to start somewhere fun, and one activity seniors seem to really enjoy is photo editing and digital scrapbooking. This hobby can bring hours of fun and enjoyment. Digital scrapbooking supplies, such as paper scrapbooking supplies, can have themes and special embellishments. A great gift for seniors might be digital scrapbook training, which would allow them to start a new hobby that connects them to the past, present and future. It would enable them to preserve family history that only they could write and scrap about. Whether scrapbooks are created in paper or digitally, they are more than photo albums. Scrapbooking is all about preserving memories. A scrapbook reflects our need to tell stories and share our lives.

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â– â– After a fun trip or special event, keep the memories alive with scrapbooking

Ageless 2015 — Page 25

Top 10 estate-planning mistakes Be proactive, and prepare or review your estate plans early

People often think that they do not need an estate plan. Some think that is because they are not old enough, wealthy enough or simply do not make it a priority. Everyone should have an estate plan in place. However, in proceeding with estate planning, you should be aware of the 10 most common estate-planning mistakes people can make:

1. You do not have an estate plan. Many people avoid having an estate plan for various reasons. It is important to have a will or trust to transfer your assets at death. Not having any estate planning can lead to unnecessary expenses, complications and taxes as well as unintended recipients. If you do not have a will or trust, the state where you were living at your death will decide who receives your property. Your family will often have to spend thousands of dollars determining how to administer your estate after your death. If you have a second marriage and you pass away without a will or trust, your assets that are subject to probate will be distributed 50 percent to your surviving spouse and 50 percent to your children from a previous marriage. It does not matter how long you have been married.

2. Your documents have not been reviewed in years. You should update your documents at the birth or death of a child; at the marriage, divorce or separation of anyone named in your will or trust; whenever Page 26 — Ageless 2015

there is a major tax law change; if you relocate to a new state, or any other significant change in your life.

beneficiary designations do not change at divorce unless you execute a document to change your beneficiary.

3. You have married or divorced.

4. Your will or trust is not consistent with your other beneficiary designations.

Some people mistakenly believe that getting married does not affect their estate plan. In Oregon your will is revoked after marriage unless it was made in contemplation of the marriage. Additionally, most people think that if they divorce that their beneficiary designations are automatically changed when their divorce is final. However, in Oregon, although your provisions in your will are revoked as to your divorced spouse, your

It is important to understand that your will or trust does not control how assets that are jointly titled or have beneficiary designations are distributed. For example, if you want your three children to inherit equal shares of your estate, and your will provides that at your death your three children will receive equal shares of your estate — but the bulk of your assets are in your 401(k). You name your eldest child

as beneficiary of the 401(k). That child will receive all of the proceeds from your 401(k) even though your will provides that the assets subject to probate will be distributed equally among your children.

If you become unable to make your own financial or health-care decisions, trusted persons that you have appointed under your advance directive or power of attorney can make those decisions for you. If you have not executed those documents, it may be necessary for a guardian or conservator to be appointed by the court to represent you.

6. You have an estate worth more than $1 million dollars and you have not estate tax planning. There is an Oregon estate tax on assets greater than $1 million and a federal estate tax on assets greater than $5.43 million. If you have properly planned in your trust or will, you can double your exemption if you are married. If

you are single or married you may want to “gift� assets out of your estate to individuals or charities to reduce your estate tax liability before you die.

7. Failing to fund your revocable trust. Many people fail to fund their revocable trust. You should make sure your assets are transferred to your trust and the beneficiaries of your life insurance and retirement accounts are updated. Otherwise, your estate plan will not be effective.

8. Do-it-yourself estate planning. Using do-it-yourself forms for estate planning is not a good idea because they are often not specifically geared to address the nuances of your situation. As an example, if you have raised your hus-

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9. Owning bank accounts jointly with your child. Although this can work in certain situations, placing your child’s name on your bank accounts is generally not a good idea. My clients often do so for ease of transaction. However, if that child has a judgment against them, that creditor could garnish your account. If they are involved in a divorce, their spouse can claim a right to your assets. Additionally, when you die, if only one child is a co-owner of your account, they would receive all the funds in that account, and that child is not required to share

the funds with their siblings.

10. Choosing the wrong fiduciaries. People often choose the wrong fiduciaries to act as their personal representative, successor trustee, attorney in fact or health care representative. These representatives should be someone who is responsible, caring and will look out for your best interests and the best interests of the beneficiaries. People often wait to prepare or review their estate until an emergency arises. The benefit of estate planning is that it is a proactive choice people can make to provide and protect themselves and their loved ones. So if any of the above apply to you, you should proceed with preparing or reviewing your estate plan.

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5. You do not have an advance directive or power of attorney.

Ageless 2015 — Page 27

Trail

Continued from Page 21

It was through the building of the trail that Cotter met up with Maschmeyer, also 74, who relocated to the southern Oregon coast from southern California in 1997. An avid birder who observes and documents his sightings, Maschmeyer is fond of the Rogue River Walk due to it’s vast variety of winged friends. The pair quickly learned there was no one available to help maintain the trail. “The jungle always wants to take back over,” Cotter said. Cotter estimated that the trail would start to deteriorate within three months from washouts, mudslides and fallen trees.

Music

Continued from Page 13

His repertoire at local venues is casual, with a lot of folk, country and rock music. “There was a huge popularity of country-rock in the ‘60s and ‘70s,” Thompson said. “I fell in love with Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, the Eagles, Linda Ronstadt — so in my retirement, I’ve found the chance to perform some of those songs.” Thompson performs about twice a month at the art walks, and usually plays alone, but enjoys being accompanied by percussionists or mandolin play-

Within a year, Maschmeyer said, the trail would be so over grown that it would be unrecognizable. So the pair have made the Rogue River Walk their lifelong mission. The two have divided the 2.2-mile upper portion trek into two sections and are out there working on it several hours every week, and that doesn’t include the lower portions that need more loving care than these two have time for. Boulders, washouts, tree branches, groves of poison oak must be addressed. Armed with chainsaws, machetes, axes, shovels and weed whackers they battle daily to beat back the forest. The effort is not without sacri-

fice and discomfort. “Yeah, sometimes I get home and feel a little sore,” Cotter confesses. “But it’s a good sore,” Maschmeyer adds, finishing her sentence. Standing near the trail, Maschmeyer points out a bird. “Lookie there,” he said about a rare Swainsons thrush. Cotter laughs at her friend’s dedication to his hobby. “He has been known to travel 1,000 miles to look for a bird!” Maschmeyer hangs his head, slightly embarrassed by the admission and revises it somewhat. “That’s an exaggeration. It was only three or four hundred miles — tops!”

Both believe that keeping active is important to their overall good health. Cotter believes in a good breakfast favoring oatmeal, while Maschmeyer shuns salt, sugar and fats. He also has some good genes in his family tree. “My mother lived to 99, so I’ll see how it goes,” he says. “My dad? He was a three-pack-a-day smoker and somehow made it to 70 before passing.” Cotter doesn’t have any plans to hang up her work boots any time soon. The rigors of doing trail work is rewarded by what the forest gives back to her. “This area is drop-dead beautiful, really unique. Right on the river, close to town. It’s special,” she says.

ers, too. “It’s an avocation — a hobby in retirement,” Thompson said. “I’ve found it very enjoyable.”

she’ll occasionally perform as a soloist, Dolan has found that what she enjoys most is making music with a group. “As a soloist, I missed having groups of musicians,” she said. “So I’m very involved in promoting ensemble music in the area. “The great thing about transitioning from a career to an amateur musician,” Dolan said, “is that I don’t have to worry about critics.” She added that as a professional musician, she had to think about her reputation, and that often prevented her from trying different types of music. Now, however, she has the flexibility to explore any

style of music that interests her. “It makes me like music even more,” she said, “like when I was a kid.” Dolan has branched into performing new genres of music as well. In August, she will play a concert with the Dixieland Rangers, a band based in Crescent City. “Most classical musicians would never play a rock show,” said Dolan’s husband, Philip. “But she does.” “I’ve discovered I can enjoy all types of music now that I’m retired, free from the pressures of competition,” Dolan said. “I can just enjoy playing.”

Christy Dolan For some, music is a way to relax and experiment with new styles. Christy Dolan, 67, was trained as a classical pianist and spent years traveling around the country as a performer. Upon retiring, she moved to Brookings and began meeting local musicians. She became involved with the Second Saturday Art Walks and the CurryDel Norte Orchestra, of which she is now president. Though

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Theater

“It’s a challenge to learn lines. Some folks are naturals on stage. I have to work myself into it a little more, but I’m more comfortable now.�

Continued from Page 17

Susan and Patrick Dodgen got into theater a few years ago as a new hobby. “My first play was “The Philadelphia Story,� said Patrick. “Two of my kids had graduated from high school, and I wanted to try something new.� Never having acted before, Patrick enjoyed it and, since then, has done one or two shows annually. “It’s fun to be a part of it,� he said. “I’ve done six plays and my wife’s done three or four.� Theater became something of a family activity for a while, with one of their daughters and their son occasionally taking part, as well. After their son, Nathan, passed away in 2011, the Dodgens continued to stay involved with theater, and even sponsored a play in their son’s honor. “It was a good thing to be back involved,� Patrick said. Susan also participates in the Brookings Harbor Community Theater, most often as a dancer and set designer. “I first got involved when my kids were younger,� she said. “I’m interested in choreography because I trained as a classical ballet dancer. It’s nice to use a skill as an adult that you haven’t used for a while.� Since getting involved, Susan has danced in and choreographed a variety of styles for

— Actress Susan Dodgen

shows. When the theater performed the show “Aladdin,� the director asked her to develop a routine for a troupe of belly dancers. “I wasn’t trained in that,� Susan said, “so I designed the dance based off of watching YouTube videos.� Susan also works regularly designing sets and painting backdrops for shows. She designed the entire set for a show called “Enchanted April.� “It’s a challenge to learn lines,� Patrick said. “Some folks are naturals on stage. I have to work myself into it a little more, but I’m more comfortable now.� The Dodgens enjoy working in different aspects of the theater, and meeting the people they act with. “It’s fun to encourage everybody,� Patrick said. “It’s a place where people who have interest can get involved – and there’s plenty of ways to get involved.� “The fun thing about community theater,� Susan added, “is that you meet people with different skills. It’s nice to make a project — and see how plays come together.�

~~~ Gold Beach residents Beth Jensen, 85, and her friend Don Woods, 81, have spent years performing on stage together with Ellensburg Theater. “We’ve been at it for about nine years now,� said Woods. The duo last teamed up as lead roles in “Holiday Review� last Christmas. Although Woods’ vision and hearing have diminished in recent years, it doesn’t keep him off stage. “I am what is termed legally blind and can’t drive, so Beth is kind enough to chauffeur me around,� he said, then adds with a chuckle, “I only see and hear what I wish to see and hear.� Jensen said the key to thriving in her 80s is to “keep moving and keeping my mind occupied.� She acknowledges that with friends and family passing away at a faster pace, it can be discouraging, so she tries to find joy in the simple pleasures of life. “I like petting my kitty and staying at home, but you gotta get out!� she said. Jensen loves performing on the stage in Gold Beach. She admits

that memorizing lines can be challenging at her age but works hard at her craft. “When we did (the play) ‘Social Security’ there was so much to memorize that it was intimidating, but I got through it okay,� she said. Woods often suffers from stage fright, but pushes through it because he loves the theater. “Becoming someone else on stage has always fascinated me,� he said. Woods agrees with Jensen that the key to maintaining good health into his 80s is having “a good frame of mind,� and he keeps himself busy with church activities and delivering food to seniors via the Meals on Wheels program. “I was a heavy smoker as a younger man so I battle with COPD now, but overall I am in pretty good health,� he said.

GET INVOLVED •Brookings Harbor Community Theater, 97900 Shopping Center Ave., Harbor. 541-4694700. Online at www.brookingsharborcommunitytheater.com. •Lighthouse Repertory Theater, Crescent Elk, 994 G St., Crescent City. 707-465-3740. Online at www.lighthouserepertorytheatre.org. •Ellensburg Theater, 94196 Moore St., Gold Beach. 541-2474382.

We Create Smiles

Monday - Friday 9 am - 5 pm After Hours & Weekend Emergency Appointments Available

“You were 'destined' to be my tooth fairy. You've changed my life, and I thank you for your compassion. Keep doing what you do, and keep on making people happy and smiles beautiful. You have no idea what this means to me. I LOVE YOU!" – Jen Backman, Brookings

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Ageless 2015 — Page 29

Hiking

Continued from Page 9

“Our hikes are very much up and down on the most difficult trails. Some are actually pretty steep. I find the beauty and the exercise of being outdoors in nature invigorating!” she said. Kramer has hiked nearly every trail in Curry County, repeatedly. Her favorite is the Illinois River, and her longest was a one-day, 17-mile trek on the upper Rogue River Trail. “We’ve seen rattlesnakes, there are hundreds of ticks and, on one hike, Mark and me counted nine bears! Nine!” she said. Other memorable hikes Kramer has done include ascending Mount McLoughlin when she was 67. “The trail starts at 5,000 feet and we hiked up to the 10,000 foot summit where it was snowing on us,” she said. Other favorites hikes include

Submitted photo

Ann Kramer tends a large garden full of nutritious vegetables and fruits.

the Pine Grove Trail, Signal Buttes, Vulcan Lake Trail, Fritche Trail and Sebastian. Kramer encourages others

to take up hiking, but to do it responsibly. “Always know where you are going. Talk to rangers about the trail, its difficulty, and never, ever,

go alone – it is very easy to get lost out there.” Kramer’s son, Mark, packs a first aid kit, GPS, cell phone, and related survival gear just in case. In addition to running the beach and 10-mile excursions into the wild, Kramer tries to swim when she can. The one-time instructor of swim and dance at three different YWCAs used to have a pool in her backyard, and she seeks out pools whenever she can. She also keeps busy around her yard mowing the lawns, trimming hedges and tending a very large vegetable garden. She likes to eat healthy from her own fresh produce, takes vitamins, and no medications. She says she eats a lot of tuna and salmon. Kramer also has a very active 2-year-old grandson whom she helps take care of twice a week. “We take walks and he runs fast, so it’s a good thing I stay in shape to be able to keep up with him,” she said.

Chetco Medical Center

DEL NORTE COUNTY VETERANS SERVICE OFFICE

Patient Care is Priority

"To care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow and his orphan"

Your CVSO can assist you if you are a Veteran, Widow, or Dependent of a

deceased or disabled Veteran. Please visit your CVSO if you have questions about: Compensation, Pension, School, Medical, Burial, Discharge upgrades, or California Veterans state benefits.

Dr. Jay Patel, M.D. and Dr. Kenneth Manuele, D.O. with their caring staff are ready to offer you the best of care

VETERANS MEMORIAL HALL

Visit or call us for your appointment

(707) 464-2154

www.facebook.com/DelNorteCountyVeteransServices Page 30 — Ageless 2015

790494sb7-18

810 H Street, Crescent City, CA 95531

Open Mon. – Fri. 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. (Phone answered until 5 pm) 97825 Shopping Center Ave., Harbor 541-412-9800 • Fax 541-412-9600

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Your County Veterans Service Office (CVSO) provides information and assistance in obtaining state and federal veterans benefits, programs and services.

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Ageless 2015 — Page 31

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