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Living Life After 50
August 2024 Spiritial Mentor Resides At Heritage Pointe See Page 10
Allen County edition ReAChing FoRt WAyne And SuRRounding CountieS Vol. 37, No. 4
www.seniorlifenewspapers.com
Woodlands Senior
Activity Center...
supports physical, emotional and mental wellness By CATHY SHOUSE Feature Writer On a Thursday morning in July, Erich Zummack participated in a program called “Be Happy, Be Well,” at the Woodlands Senior Activity Center in Columbia City. The South Whitley resident frequently attends the offerings at the center, which are varied and part of a full schedule. The subject was about having a good lifestyle and dealing with depression, among other issues. “It was a good program,” Zummack said. “It took about an hour. We worked together. We talked about things. I’ll be staying for lunch today.” He goes to lunch there fairly
often. As a vegetarian, Zummack appreciates the fact that he is offered options. “The meals are very good,” he said. “They’re very good about always accommodating special requirements people might have.” The center has activities in the evening as well, and might have a musical show on-site, and sometimes serves meals then. But what first brought Zummack to the center several years ago is still one of his favorite activities. The facility sets up trips to various entertainment venues. A particular favorite was going to Beef and Boards in Indianapolis to a show and a buffet. “It was a delight,” he said. “I
BE HAPPY BE WELL — Erich Zummack, far right, participates in a program, “Be Happy, Be Well,” at the Woodlands Senior Activity Center in Columbia City. Photo provided.
don’t have to drive. I can just relax. They have snacks, drinks and water on the bus. If it’s very far, they will stop somewhere for a pit-stop. I got to hang out with a bunch of fun people.” Leslie Blakley, executive director for three years, explained how the center operates. “We work for Whitley County Council on Aging, Inc., a nonprofit organization, which Continued on page 2 MOVIN’ AND GROOVIN’ — Shown is a group of clients during a “Movin’ and Groovin’ with Nate” motion class at the Woodlands Senior Activity Center in Columbia City. Photo provided.
PROVIDING TRANSPORTATION — Ernie Ebner, a Whitley County Transit driver, assists a client onto a Whitley County Transit bus. Photo provided.