Boone County Shopper Senior Living June 2024

HAPPY

Father’s Day

June 16th

A Rundown On Golf Clubs

Some golfers would say you’re only as good as your gear. Perhaps no gear is as important to a golfer’s performance as his or her clubs. The differences between each type of club may confuse those unfamiliar with golf, so a rundown of the various clubs in a golfer’s bag may help novices improve their scores.

Driver - Drivers are what golfers utilize on the tee, so this club marks a good place to start. Drivers are designed to give golfers distance off the tee, & these will likely be the longest club in the bag. Choosing a driver depends on a number of variables that are unique to each golfer, so it’s best to speak to a pro shop professional to find the right driver before hitting the links.

Irons - Golfballs.com notes that a standard set of irons features between five & seven clubs, typically a 3-iron to a 9-iron. However, irons range from a 1-iron to a 9-iron. Golfballs.com notes a 1-iron & a 2-iron are typically only utilized by especially skilled golfers, which is why they’re not often included in standard sets. According to the sporting goods experts at Dick’s, the following is the average distance golfers can expect from their irons:

• 2-iron: 105 to 210 yards

• 5-iron: 80 to 175 yards

• 8-iron: 60 to 145 yards

• 3-iron: 100 to 205 yards

• 6-iron: 70 to 165 yards

• 9-iron: 55 to 135 yards

• 4-iron: 90 to 190 yards

• 7-iron: 65 to 155 yards

Fairway woods - Dick’s notes that fairway woods are versatile clubs that can be used from the fairway or the rough. Fairway woods can even be used in the place of a driver if golfers are more comfortable doing so. Dick’s notes that average distance also determines which fairway wood to utilize.

• 3-wood: 125 to 240 yards

• 7-wood: 90 to 170 yards

• 4-wood: 110 to 220 yards

• 5-wood: 105 to 215 yards

Hybrids - Golfballs.com notes that hybrids can be used in place of long irons (a 3-iron to a 6-iron). Novices may be most inclined to do so, as the shorter shafts on hybrids compared to long irons makes them easier for some beginners to use effectively.

Wedges - Dick’s notes wedges are designed for low-distance shots. There are various types of wedges, & usage can be determined by how long a shot golfers are hoping to hit. A pitching wedge can be used for shots between 50 & 120 yards, while a lob wedge is a good option for a shot between 35 & 90 yards. Gap wedges are good for shots slightly shorter than a pitching wedge, while a sand wedge helps golfers escape the dreaded bunker. Putter - Putters are used when golfers reach the green. As is the case with drivers, putters can be chosen after consultation with a pro shop professional to ensure the club does not adversely affect your score.

Looking To Play A Round Of Golf?

Boone County offers three unique golf courses. Timber Pointe Golf Club is an 18 hole, par 72 course measuring 7000 yards. It is fun and challenging for anyone, regardless of skill level. Located at 5750 Woodstock Road, Poplar Grove. For more information or to make a tee time call 815-544-1935.

Swanhills is a feel good, golfer friendly course. The course is privately owned and open to the public. Swanhills is an 18 hole par 71 course located at 2600 Gustafson Road, Belvidere. Contact them at 815-547-3232.

Beaver Creek Golf Course in Capron is a family-owned nine-hole course located in the beautiful countryside of Capron. The course includes seven holes with the winding Beaver Creek in play. Enjoy Beaver Creek at 19619 LeRoy Center Road in Capron, 815-569-2427.

6 Ways To Reduce Stress

Stress is a significant public health challenge. The Ipsos Global Advisor survey for World Mental Health Day 2022 found that most Americans feel the United States health care system places less importance on mental health than physical health, & the majority of adults reported experiencing high levels of stress over the last two years. The CDC says mental health problems may occur as more adults deal with stress. In August 2022, more than 32% of adults in the U.S. reported having symptoms of anxiety or depression in the last two weeks.

The stress response gets a person through tough times, as the body rallies to evade a threat. Typically, when the danger subsides, the body can go back to business as usual. However, when stress is ongoing, it can cause harm like chronic inflammation. In addition, the constant activation of the immune system raises the risk for many adverse health effects, including heart disease & stroke.

Men & women experience stress differently. Debra Bangasser, Ph.D., & her colleagues at Temple University found that, in response to significant life stress, men are more likely than women to experience effects on the cognitive processes like memory. High job insecurity is a notable stress trigger for men. It’s key to keep stress at a minimum for personal well-being. These strategies can help.

1. Get active: Exercise will not make stress disappear, but it can relieve some of the emotional responses & clear thoughts to let you deal with problems more readily.

2. Use laughter: Laughter reduces stress hormones & is a way to experience joy, optimism & hope.

3. Reduce loud noises: Sometimes loud noises can trigger a stress response. It can make it hard to think & take away from being mindful. Avoiding loud scenarios or wearing earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can help.

4. Avoid unhealthy habits: Some people turn to alcohol or smoking to deal with stress. Overall, these habits can exacerbate stress & lead to additional health problems.

5. Meditate: The Mayo Clinic says attention is focused to help calm the thoughts in the mind & give a sense of peace & calm. Meditation can include guided imagery, mindfulness & visualization exercises.

6. Connect with others: Meaningful relationships can create feelings of belonging. Feeling cared for & supported can help people cope with stress & be more resilient. Building connections involves reaching out to community, family or friends. Sometimes just talking things out with others as a sounding board can alleviate stress, especially when others share that they have experienced similar situations.

The Boone County Council on Aging offers a Friendly Call Program which addresses the need to maintain connections, build friendships and reduce loneliness. Simply call 779-552-7258 to sign up to receive calls as often as desired.

Stress can be detrimental to overall health. Taking steps to reduce stress can improve quality of life.

Summer Fun, Festivals & Fundraisers

The Boone County Museum of History will continue their lecture series on June 20th at 6 PM in the Grand Gallery of the Museum. The program will be Neighborhood Grocery Stores with Historical Society Board President & Historian, Carol Rowe. The lectures are free to sustaining members, $5 for regular members and $10 for non-members. The Museum is located at 314 S. State Street in Belvidere. For more information about the Museum and their lecture series, please call 815-544-8391. Mark your calendars for the next lecture: July 25th: Zelda Fitzgerald This Side of Paradise...Her Story with historian & storyteller, Lynne Rymarz. The Belvidere Area Chamber of Commerce will offer monthly Buchanan Street Markets on Buchanan Street in downtown Belvidere. This outdoor event will take place on Fridays from 4-8 PM on June 21st and again on July 26th. These events include family-friendly activities, market vendors & food trucks! Stop out and join the fun. For more information visit belviderechamber.com/buchanan-street-markets.

The City of Belvidere will host their Annual Heritage Days Celebration on Friday, June 28th and 29th in Downtown Belvidere and at the Boone County Fairgrounds. Highlights of the festival include live music, a 5K race, Paint on State, a car show, vendor fair, parade and of course Fireworks! For a full list of events and times please visit belvidereil.gov/heritage-days/ Up for a road trip? Come watch the Chicago Cubs take on their rival to the north, the Milwaukee Brewers, at the beautiful American Family Field in Milwaukee. Sign up for tickets at the Belvidere Park District. The trip on Saturday, June 29th includes the game at 3:10 PM, pick up & drop off at the park maintenance center, 1001 W. Locust. All travel will be by an air-conditioned coach bus & seats at the game are located in the Loge Outfield Box, Section 209. Register online at belviderepark.org or in person at Rivers Edge Recreation Center MondayFriday, 9 AM - 5 PM.

The Keen Age Center will be holding a “Junk In The Trunk” Fundraiser Friday, June 28th from 9 AM -2 PM in the Keen Age Center Parking Lot, 2141 Henry Luckow Lane, Belvidere. This is not your everyday garage sale! Come check out the treasures. Food will be available for purchase by the Friends of K.A.C. If you are interested in being a vendor call 779-552-7238.

815-544-8391

funderburghouse.org

Possible Migraine Triggers

Migraine headaches can be debilitating, & chances are many families include at least one person who is fully aware of that reality. The American Migraine Foundation notes that migraines affect more than 37 million people in the U.S., while the World Health Organization includes migraines among its 10 most disabling global illnesses. Migraine headaches can lead to mood changes, difficulty concentrating, trouble sleeping, & nausea, among other symptoms. The unpleasant side effects of migraines & the reality that no one is immune to them makes it worth anyone’s time to learn about possible triggers of these debilitating headaches.

• Stress: The AMF indicates research has found that between 50 & 75% of people had a significant association between their daily stress level & their daily migraine activity. Though elevated stress levels do not always lead to migraines, stress is a trigger for nearly 70% of people who experience them. Identifying sources of stress & then finding healthy ways to overcome it might help people avoid migraines or reduce their frequency.

• Changes in sleeping habits: The AMF notes the link between sleep & migraines is substantial & points out that nearly 50% of all migraines occur between 4 AM & 9 AM. Maintaining a regular sleep schedule, including on weekends, may help to lower migraine risk & frequency. In addition, the AMF recommends people avoid watching television, texting, reading, or listening to music while in bed.

• Weather: If migraine sufferers feel the weather plays a role in their headaches, they’re not necessarily wrong. According to the Mayo Clinic, weather changes can produce chemical imbalances in the brain that can trigger a migraine. Weather-related triggers may include bright sunlight, extreme temperatures, high humidity, & barometric pressure changes, among others. Individuals who feel certain types of weather have triggered past migraines are urged to stay indoors when similar conditions arise.

• Dehydration: Dehydration can contribute to a host of adverse side effects, including migraines. According to the AMF, roughly one-third of people who suffer migraines report dehydration is a trigger for their headaches, with some noting that even slight dehydration can quickly cause debilitating head pain. Drinking sufficient amounts of water each day may help reduce migraine risk & frequency.

A number of variables can trigger migraine headaches. Learning those triggers & doing your best to avoid them may help people avoid migraines or reduce their frequency.

Are There Ways To Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease?

Researchers continue to investigate Alzheimer’s disease, the most commonly diagnosed form of dementia. Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive form of dementia & affects parts of the brain that control thought, memory, & language. Notable symptoms include memory loss & difficulties communicating. AD can be debilitating, so naturally people want to do all they can to avoid it. There are no proven prevention strategies nor a cure. However, Mayo Clinic says there is strong evidence that healthy lifestyle habits may play a role in reducing AD risk. The Alzheimer’s Assoc. & Mayo Clinic recommend strategies to help reduce dementia risk.

• Reduce risk for heart disease. Autopsy studies show that as many as 80% of individuals with AD also have cardiovascular disease. Lowering blood pressure & cholesterol may help individuals reduce their risk for AD.

• Eat a balanced diet. Many doctors recommend the Mediterranean diet, which is rich in vegetables, fruits & lean protein coming from sources containing omega-3 fatty acids. This diet also is heart-healthy.

• Embrace physical activity. Regular physical activity may lower the risk of AD as well as vascular dementia. Exercise can boost blood & oxygen flow in the brain. Cardiovascular exercise is an essential part of wellness.

• Quit smoking. Quitting smoking can help maintain brain health & reduce the risk for various diseases.

• Avoid head injuries. Always wear protective safety equipment when participating in sports or while riding motorcycles or other motorized vehicles. Fall-proof your home & wear seatbelts while riding in cars.

• Maintain social connections & activity. A number of studies indicate that maintaining strong social connections & keeping mentally active as people age might lower the risk of cognitive decline as well as AD.

• Keep a healthy weight. Manage weight through diet & exercise. Although there is no guaranteed way to avoid a dementia diagnosis, lifestyle changes may help reduce risk.

Wash hands with soap & water. Gently rub produce under cool

water

Combine all vegetables & fruit in a medium bowl. Set aside.

Whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and (optional) celery seed in a small bowl. Pour over cabbage mixture & toss to coat.

Chill until ready to serve.

Citrus Coleslaw

Jack Wolf Memorial Golf Outing Thank You

Submitted By: Darrel Davis, Boone County Council on Aging, Board President

Friday, May 17, if you remember, was one of the most beautiful spring days any of us can expect to experience. The sun was out, the temperature was nearly perfect for outdoor activities, & there was hardly even a gentle breeze. It was a perfect day for a golf outing. On that beautiful day many local business owners & individuals supported with their very generous & significant contributions the third annual Jack Wolf Memorial Golf Tournament organized by the Boone County Council on Aging (BCCA).

It is difficult to know how to thank appropriately all who gave of their time & resources to make this a very successful effort to raise funds to support some of the many BCCA activities & services provided to senior citizens & others. Perhaps the first to be recognized for their continuous work throughout the year is the BCCA Board Fund Raising Committee. Chaired by Amy Gallano & faithfully supported by board members Alisa Patterson, Deb Yunk, & Maria Gonzalez, and community members Dale Kaiser, & Kay Davis, and BCCA staff member Steve Kling, this group is already evaluating the recent outing & preparing for the fourth annual outing in 2025. Without the relationships these individuals have with businesses & persons in the community & their courage to ask these businesses & persons for golf outing sponsorships, the event would not get off the ground.

What an ambitious, creative, & generous group of volunteers!

Then it is the sponsors’ favorable responses to these requests for financial & in-kind donations that allows the BCCA to cover the expenses which are associated with such a tournament & to realize a significant profit to use as a supplement to the funds available to provide a variety of services to the elderly in this area. Please take a moment to review the picture of the banner containing the names of the businesses & individuals who supported the 2024 tournament. Every donor’s contribution is appreciated. It is our wish that the sponsors are recognized & widely appreciated for their generosity.

All of those who participated in the golf, the bidding for prizes, & the purchase of chances for door prizes are also appreciated. You contributed significantly to the success of the event. It is very important that the Wolf Family is recognized for allowing the BCCA to continue to refer to the tournament as The Jack Wolf Memorial Golf Tournament as just the most recent of many ways the Family has supported the BCCA over many years. Even the ground the Keen Age Center is built on was donated by Jack & Peggy Wolf.

Some may assume that the word “County” in the name of the BCCA implies that the organization is somehow a governmental entity with the authority to generate operating funds through taxation. While the BCCA does receive generous support from Belvidere Township & other townships in the county, & is reimbursed by Boone County for certain costs related to public transportation supplied by the BCCA, other services are financed through grants, donations, & fundraising activities such as the golf outing. Fund raising helps support 1. the Med Car service, 2. the Information & Assistance program that, among other things, helps seniors as they choose supplemental healthcare benefits, 3. a lending closet stocked with a variety of equipment & supplies needed by those dealing with circumstances related to aging & health issues 4. the space & scheduling services related to income tax return preparation & filing, 5. exercise activities, 6. support for caregivers & those who have lost dear ones, 7. access to computers, 8. many social activities including, but not limited to, pool, karaoke, cards, art, needle crafts, & much more.

So, on behalf of the BCCA Board of Directors, a most heartfelt thank you to all who were involved in making the 2024 Jack Wolf Memorial Golf Tournament a success.

Darrel Davis, Board President

P.S. And, by the way, not a penny of the proceeds of the tournament is being spent for this ad. All of the net proceeds from the tournament will be used to support BCCA services.