M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 1
YOUR LIFE UP NORTH
Feel Good. Live Well.
Your Comprehensive Approach to Healthcare. Our internists are specialists for daily life, doctors with the training to help adults practice and maintain the essentials of healthy living. · New Patients Welcome · Annual Physicals & Health Screenings · Electronic Medical Records with Online Patient Features · No Insurance? Ask about SimpleCare
231.487.9702 · doctors4adults.com BURNS PROFESSIONAL BUILDING, STE MOST MAJOR INSURANCE
2 YOUR LIFE UP NORTH
&
300 · PETOSKEY
SIMPLECARE ACCEPTED
On the cover: Mary Reilly leads a Yoga class.
features 6 Good Stuff Good To Go: Sit-to-stand exercise Grandparenting: Fun at the trout farm 9 Nod to Nostalgia 1963: Debut of the Lava Lamp 10 Good Taste Panini recipes
12 Good Escape The lives of Kentucky horses 14 Good Word Anne Kelly 16 Good Health Lowering sodium 18 Good Buys Picking the right tennis shoe
20 Good Idea Pickleball 22 Cover Story Yoga: What it can do for your health 26 Good Cents Roth IRAs: Is it too late to start? 28 Good Samaritan Helping hands for summer festivals
GOODlife 3
Audiology & Hearing Aid Service: • Diagnostic hearing test • Hearing aid sales • Hearing aid repair & cleaning • Ear molds Petoskey Ear Nose & Throat Specialists
member families can’t be wrong!
231-487-3050 Colleen Keith, M.A, CCC/A Dr. Karen Kallio, Au.D, CCC/A www.petoskeyent.com
Flu Shots Now Available 10 to 3
Rt. 119 Station
Allied EMS Systems, Inc. 3407 M-119 Harbor Springs 231-248-1202
Gaylord
Petoskey
St. Ignace
930 North Center Gaylord,MI 49735
560 W.Mitchell St., Suite 250 Petoskey,MI 49720
220 Burdette St. St.Ignace,MI 49781
Can You Hear the Sounds of Spring?
Reduce Your Blood Pressure & Your Medication Costs Do you take Diovan, Avapro, Benicar, or Atacand? Tired of high insurance copays? Worried about the Medicare Donut Hole?
Losartan, the first of this class of medications, the Angiotensin Receptor Blockers, to come off patent is now available at Medicap Pharmacy at a much lower cost and far lower copay than other meds in this class.
Wes Ostrander, R.Ph. & Liz Ostrander, R.Ph.
2240 E. MITCHELL • PETOSKEY HOURS: Monday-Saturday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
231-487-0262 ONLINE REFILLS • FREE LOCAL DELIVERY 4 YOUR LIFE UP NORTH
The Medicap 395 Program Covers over 395 Different Prescriptions 30 Day Supply for $3.95 90 Day Supply for $9.95 Available at Medicap Pharmacy located in Petoskey
Call Liz or Wes today to ask about less expensive blood pressure treatment options. DRIVE-THRU • 24 HOUR DROP
JOHN AND MARNIE DEMMER MAY/JUNE 2011 - Volume 2, Issue 5 PUBLISHER DOUG CALDWELL EDITOR MAGGIE PETERSON
8FMMOFTT 1BWJMJPO "/% %*"-:4*4 $&/5&3
PHOTOGRAPHY G. RANDALL GOSS LAYOUT AND DESIGN WENDY WOLFSEN FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION CONTACT ADVERTISING DIRECTOR CHRISTY LYONS (231) 439-9329 clyons@petoskeynews.com ADVERTISING SALES JEFF GENSCHAW MATT HAUSLER JOY HOLMES BOB REEDY BRIDGE WERTZ LISA SLADEK
© GoodLife, all rights reserved, 2011. Reproduction in any form, in whole or in part, without express written permission, is prohibited. The views expressed herein, whether expressed as fact, fiction, opinion, advice or otherwise, are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the ownership or management of this magazine. The publication of any advertisement does not reflect any endorsement for any products or services by the ownership or management of this magazine unless it is specifically stated in such advertisement that there is approval for such endorsement.
GoodLife is published bi-monthly by Northern Michigan Review, Inc. GoodLife Magazine 319 State St., Petoskey, Mich. 49770
Heal Well. Be Well. Meeting Outpatient Needs in One State-of-the-Art Facility • CARDIAC, PULMONARY, AND PEDIATRIC REHABILITATION • PHYSICAL AND OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIES • SPEECH AND LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY • DIALYSIS • INTEGRATIVE AND COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES • WELLNESS COUNSELING AND EDUCATION • CANCER SURVIVORSHIP PROGRAM • WEIGHT MANAGEMENT AND BARIATRIC SERVICES
Opening July 2011.
800.248.6777 northernhealth.org Lockwood-MacDonald Campus U.S. 31 North, Petoskey
GOODlife 5
GOOD STUFF GOOD TO GO
GOOD HUMOR
Sit-to-stand exercise The aging process can make it more difficult to rise from a sitting position to a standing one. A way to help alleviate the problem is to strengthen the core by practicing standing up from a sitting position. “In this exercise, all the small muscles in the back and the hips are kicking in,” said certified personal trainer Todd Ackerman with Tim Bondyy Physical y Therapy in Petoskey. “The more and nd more seniors practice this exercise, the easier it is for them to get up.”
1. Sit on the edge of a chair. Both feet should ould be planted squarely on the floor, in line with your shoulders and tucked beneath eath your knees so that when you look down, own, you should not be able to see your toes. Square your shoulders and cross your arms over your chest so that you do not relyy on pushing off your knees with your handss to stand up.
2. Holding your hands to your chest, bend end forward while engaging your trunk until your nose is over your toes.
3. Engaging the muscles in your hips, abdobdomen, back and gluteal muscles — which h are much stronger than the quadricep muscles cles on the front of the leg — rise to a standing ding position.
Ackerman recommends beginning ning with three sets of 10 sit-to-stands with a minute of rest between each set. When you feel comfortable with this, try working up to three sets of 15. — By Morgan Sherburnee
Petoskey resident Richardd James, 70, practices a sit-to-stand nd exercise.
6 YOUR LIFE UP NORTH
Something old, something new, something borrowed ... The Harbor Springs Library was closed for a month for renovation. When I learned that they would be “updating” and “reorganizing,” I became almost despondent. It was like grieving for a death of a dear old relative. I loved this geriatric place that I could go and sit in a wingback chair, next to a globe with countries that haven’t existed since the 1950s. And if I went at just the right time of day, I could sunbathe like my lazy orange cat does, in the slanting rays of sun, speckled with the airborne dust. And the smell! Not in many, but some books I would open and the faintest fragrance of long ago would waft up. Some would have ancient bindings that protested, making that cracking sound, and orange-yellowed tape would dis-adhere; tape used before we knew to use the newer “invisible” kind. Books printed on paper milled long before the acid-free became available, and so the volumes seemed to have been dipped in strong tea, edging the top and bottom and sides. And the wooden chest of drawers, the size of a small refrigerator, that continued as a memorial to the Dewey Decimal System. Where now will I go? When people die, even whole generations are completely gone, houses are sold, belongings doled out and scattered among the living who are left. The remainder is sold at garage sales or if you’re snooty, estate sales. And then I aged, and the generation right next to mine is gone, and so are their houses and furniture, the pots and pans, even the bedroom slippers. Where now will I go to comfort myself in the way I could before? Somewhere I could push open the screen door, and say, “Hellooo! I’m home!” They said there would be two new computer
GOOD STUFF GOOD HUMOR (CONTD.) areas. Ah yes, the reassurance of this little library. And for sure I will little green photons tumbling across continue to borrow books from it. a screen … shelves reorganized, new Maybe I’ll even say it’s better. I know books ordered, better lighting, seat- someone will say I should go to muing … the wood floors refinished. seums if I like old things so much. Look — I know. I get it. This is But the thing I loved the most 2011 for goodness sake. I have bur- about the Harbor Springs Library ied a lot of people, and by the time was that I could be IN the historical they died, they too could have used display. some remodeling. And for a minute or two, I could And I’ll get used to the changes in forget all the years that separate me
from the people and things I loved before. GL — Katie MacInnis Katie MacInnis is a retired nurse living in Harbor Springs with her husband, Charlie, and Fred and Amelia, her cat and dog. She keeps busy doing volunteer work, collecting her Social Security checks and getting senior coffee, even from the drive-in window. She loves to write, and finds lots of humor in the changes that aging brings.
GRANDPARENTING
Fishing for fun! A
t Morgan Trout Pond & Evergreen Farm, entertainment and dinner are wrapped into one.
Beginning Memorial Day and running through Labor Day, the stocked pond in Alanson is open for families to stop by and drop in a line. “The kids just have a ball,” said John Morgan, who, along with his Morgan Trout Farm is located a few miles north of Alanson on U.S. 31. wife, Kim, owns Morgan Trout Pond. hooks. ger, between 15 and 16 inches. One pond of the 15 that the Fishing at the pond is on a first- It’s good, fun, family competition. Morgans own is used for daily come, first-serve basis. The trout For whatever reason, the smallest fishing, and the pond is stocked average between 10 and 15 inches child almost always gets the bigwith approximately 1,000 rainbow with most of the fish measuring 10 gest fish,” said Morgan. “It’s pure trout. The rest of the ponds raise inches. All of the fishing is catch- joy. There’s nothing like a squealtrout for private use. and-keep; what does not go home ing 4-year-old to bring a little joy The rods used are simple bam- with customers is donated. Pay- into your life.” boo poles with a line — for safety ment is by length of fish: the MorMorgan Trout Farm & Everreasons, no reels are used. The gans charge 60 cents per inch. green Farm is located at 6047 U.S. Morgans use colored mini-marshAll trout are cleaned, and clean- 31 South in Alanson. For more inmallows as bait so that children ing is included in the price. formation, contact John Morgan can get used to baiting their own “We put a few fish that are big- at (231) 838-1153. — Morgan Sherburne
GOODlife 7
by Burley 321 Spring St. Harbor Springs (231)526-2123
7031 US 31 Alanson (231)548-2211
www.insurancebyburley.com
Since 1909, the tree continues to grow! STRENGTH • GROWTH • LONGEVITY
BETTER SELECTION...BETTER SAVINGS
the SAME GREAT SERVICE! See us today at the new 8287 US-31 (1 Mile S. of M-68)
ALANSON
347-5850
Your health is in good hands Our patient centered medical home provides convenient, quality medical care for the whole family.
• Urgent Care • Physicals & routine health care • Chronic disease management • Dermatology • In-office x-rays • Fractures
Little Traverse Primary Care 8881 M-119 • Harbor Springs/ Petoskey 231-347-5400 • 1-888-300-5872 7700 S. US 31 • Alanson • 231-548-1333 www.littletraverseprimarycare.com
8 YOUR LIFE UP NORTH
NOD TO NOSTALGIA - 1963 Music
Movie
The
Beatles Sparking music’s British Invasion, The Beatles release their first album, titled “Please Please Me.” The flop-haired foursome fanned the Beatlemania flames late in the year with the release of “I Want To Hold Your Hand” and “I Saw Her Standing There.” Just months later, on Feb. 9, 1964, the Beatles played the Ed Sullivan Show. The Nielsen ratings estimated 73 million viewers tuned in — nearly half of the population of the United States. The Beatles’ rowdy style forever changed the composition of American pop music. Album releases ranged from what is credited as the first rock concept album in the psychedelic “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” (1967) to 1968’s acclaimed “The Beatles” album — better known as the “White Album.” The band broke up in 1970 following the 1967 death of their manager, Brian Epstein. Ten years later, John Lennon was killed outside of his apartment building.
In the news
007
Dr. No Bond. James Bond. Americans first laid eyes on the notoriously resourceful — not to mention amorous — spy on May 8, 1963, in the Bond film franchise’s first release, Dr. No. Agent 007 (Sean Connery) travels to Jamaica to solve the murder of a fellow agent. There, Bond encounters the machinations of nuclear scientist Dr. No (Joseph Wiseman), who uses the United States’ rocket launchers for his own devices. Honeychile ‘Honey’ Ryder (Ursula Andress) makes her Bond girl debut in her iconic white belted bikini.
The way it was
Rise of the
Lava Lamp
— In the midst of a decade of citizens championing for civil rights, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivers his “I Have A Dream” speech on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. — “General Hospital”, one of television’s longest running soap operas, debuts on April 1. — Coca-Cola releases TaB, its first sugar-free drink. — Harvey Ball invents the ubiquitous yellow smiley face. — President John F. Kennedy is assassinated on Nov. 22 in Dallas, Texas.
The year 1963 saw the rise of wax — globular, colorful wax — encased within the confines of the lava lamp. The novelty has a somewhat murky history. Originally invented by a man named Alfred Dunnett, it was made, some say, out of either an egg timer, a cocktail shaker or a combination of both. An oily liquid in the lamp rose when an egg was cooked, according to lava lamp lore. British entrepreneur Edward Craven Walker became entranced with the invention, refining and marketing it. Walker called it the Astro lamp. Two American men, Adolph Wertheimer and Hy Spector, acquired the United States rights and rechristened the lamp “Lava Lite.” The lamp has changed company hands several times, but one thing has remained: the colorful lights have been a staple in dorm rooms for more than four decades. GOODlife 9
GOOD TASTE
Pressed for time? A panini press makes dinner fast Diane Davis Associated Press
M
aybe you are sick of the same old turkey sandwich day after day. Maybe you are tired of heating up your kitchen with the stove. Or maybe you want to impress the heck out of some dinner guests with a truly different dessert. May we introduce you to the panini press? Yes, one small appliance, many fabulous uses. There are few Americans today who are not familiar with panini. Though the Italian word loosely means “sandwiches,” in the U.S. it has come to almost always mean a hot pressed sandwich prepared on some kind of grill. They’ve been popular for about a decade, and you can buy them everywhere from generic airport lunch counters to hip wine bars. But it’s easy-panini to make them at home. And sandwiches are just the start. Learn how to use a panini press — a close relative of the countertop grill — and you can pretty much make a full dinner, often faster and with less mess than with more traditional cooking methods. “You can do chicken, you can do vegetables, you can do pancakes if you have a griddle attachment,” says Kathy Strahs, who writes a blog called Panini Happy. “It actually can replicate quite a few objects you may already have in your house — a toaster, a griddle, obviously a grill.” And did we mention show-stopping desserts? You can buy an electric panini press for as little as $40, or as much 10 YOUR LIFE UP NORTH
$300; the models around $100 of- wonderfully perfect bacon without ten offer the most versatility at the the usual grease splatter? That’s best price point. Most of the clam- right, panini press it. shaped devices have ridges (though How about a main course — some are flat and griddle-like) and marinated chicken? heat up on both the top and bottom Here’s Denton’s practically efgrill plates, so they cook things re- fortless formula: In the morning, ally fast. rub some boneless, skinless chickOnce you have the equipment, en breasts with a mixture of olive start off with a simple sandwich. oil, garlic, salt, pepper, parsley, a Jason Denton, often credited few chili flakes and a pinch of sugwith kicking off a panini craze when ar. Wrap each in foil and refrigerhe opened the tiny ’ino in New ate while you are at work. Remove York’s Greenwich Village in 1998, from fridge 20 minutes before says less is always more. “We try to cooking, then place seam side up use really high-quality ingredients on the press. Close the press and and try not to do too much to them,” grill at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for he says. Three items on the sand- 5 to 6 minutes. Remove and let rest wich is the best balance, he says. for a few minutes while assembling When it comes to cooking, re- some salad greens. Carefully unmember the object is to heat the wrap the chicken, place atop greens sandwich, not grill it to death, Den- and pour any juices over the meat. ton says. And please, be kind to Yum! your creation when you close the And don’t stop with chicken. You lid. can do just about any meat on the “There might be a misconception press pretty much the same as you about it being called a press,” Strahs would on a grill, but you’ll probably said. “You see someone applying all have to experiment with cooking kinds of pressure and really slam- time. Remember, you are cooking ming that thing down.” OK, mastered that? Here’s where it gets interesting. Love vegetables? You can press ’em. Thinly slice some sweet potatoes, toss with olive oil, salt and pepper, then grill. (You can even call them “tiger chips” for their dark grill marks and try to talk your kids into eating them.) Hankering for a salad? Grill some lightly buttered strips of bread and enjoy the fresh croutons. Sliced polenta on the press? Yes, please. And for the crispiest, most
COUNTERTOP NAPOLEONS Start to finish: 20 minutes Servings: 6 - 2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed according to package directions (each 17.3-ounce package contains 2 sheets) - 1 cup heavy cream - 1/2 cup sour cream - 2 tablespoons orange marmalade both sides at once. Amy Hildenbrand, who co-owns the Austin Daily Press food truck in Austin, Texas, says she cooked a 2 1/2-inch steak to a perfect medium-rare once by pressing it for 4 1/2 minutes. And vegetarians are not to be left out. Strahs grills homemade falafel patties and swears they are as crunchy as those done in a skillet with oil (and probably healthier). Hildenbrand cooks eggs on her griddle-like press, but does not close it. “I did it once by accident and I definitely don’t recommend doing that,” she says. She does recommend that anyone pressed for space or living without a kitchen consider buying a press to easily make scrumptious and healthy meals without a stove. Desserts, in fact, are fabulous to do on the grill. To start simply, brush a little butter on some Granny Smith apple slices, grill and serve sprinkled with brown sugar-cinnamon and topped with whipped cream. Strahs also suggests baking brownies by dropping batter by the spoonful on the grill and pressing for five minutes. If you are ready for the big leagues, Strahs recommends her gingerbread blondie s’mores. Cut pre-baked blondies into gingerbread men, assemble them into sandwiches filled with marshmallow cream and shaved dark chocolate. After grilling the s’mores, dust with clementine zest. “It’s a creative outlet for me,” she says. GL
- 1 tablespoon honey - Two 6-ounce packages fresh raspberries - Powdered sugar Heat a panini press or countertop grill. Cut each sheet of puff pastry into nine 3-by-3-inch squares. Working in batches according to how many squares will fit on your press at once, cook the pastry squares with the cover set gently down on them until lightly browned and cooked through, about 3 to 4 minutes. As each batch cooks, transfer the squares to a plate to cool, then set aside. To make the filling, in a large bowl use an electric mixer to whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Fold in the sour cream, orange marmalade and honey. To assemble the napoleons, spread a layer of the whipped cream over 6 of the pastry squares. Top each with a few of the berries, then another square of pastry. Repeat with another layer of whipped cream, fruit and a third pastry square. Finish the napoleons with a final layer of cream, then fruit. Dust with powdered sugar. Nutrition information per serving (values are rounded to the nearest whole number): 287 calories; 196 calories from fat (28 percent of total calories); 22 g fat (13 g saturated; 0 g trans fats); 68 mg cholesterol; 22 g carbohydrate; 3 g protein; 0 g fiber; 92 mg sodium.
Associated Press Countertop Napoleons GOODlife 11
GOOD ESCAPE
Associated Press Jennifer Riggle of Huntington, Ind., raises her camera to photograph Big Brown in a paddock at the Three Chimneys Farm in Midway, Ky. Sleek thoroughbreds are the stars in Kentucky’s bluegrass region, and there’s no better time to visit than spring.
Traveling Kentucky Touring the pampered lives of prized horses Bruce Schreiner Associated Press
They toured several horse farms, strolled around the Kentucky Horse Park and took in a day of racing at IDWAY, Ky. (AP) — As star- venerable Keeneland race track in struck visitors approached nearby Lexington. Riggle, 18, said a lush green paddock at it was better than hanging out on a Three Chimneys Farm, the stately beach. thoroughbred Big Brown was right Sleek thoroughbreds are the stars on cue. The Kentucky Derby and in Kentucky’s bluegrass region, and Preakness winner ambled up to the there’s no better time to visit than plank fence and calmly posed like a spring, in the weeks before and after movie star on the red carpet. the May 7 Kentucky Derby. Jennifer Riggle stretched her arm, Foals are frolicking in pastures, camera in hand, and clicked pho- their mothers hovering nearby. tos of the celebrity horse. Riggle, a Flowers are blooming and trees are high school senior from Huntington, budding, adding splashes of pink, Ind., spent spring break in Kentucky yellow and white to panoramic horse country with her mother and scenes of green pastures and black a teenage friend. plank fences snaking along the
M
12 YOUR LIFE UP NORTH
rolling countryside. Fans flock to Keeneland race track, and later in the spring to Churchill Downs, the iconic Louisville track that’s home to the Kentucky Derby. “It’s the best time of year to drive through Kentucky and see all the farms and just experience what horse country really is,” said Jen Roytz, marketing director at Three Chimneys Farm, a popular destination. Three Chimneys covers about 2,300 acres, but public tours are limited to the stallion and breeding operation, where some famous names ply their trade in perpetuating the bloodlines that could produce the next Triple Crown champion.
The hour-long walking tours are available Tuesdays through Saturdays throughout the year based on demand, with a few exceptions. The peak time for public tours is in spring and again in fall when there’s live racing at Keeneland, a 10or 15-minute drive away. The farm charges $10 per person for tours, and the proceeds go to charities. During the tours, visitors follow the footsteps of the stately stallions, with glimpses into their pampered lives. There’s a stop in their barns — eye-catching structures with stone exterior walls and high ceilings inside. The spacious stalls are matted with thick layers of straw. Nameplates the size of a CEO’s adorn the stalls to identify each occupant. Tour guide Sue Clark talked about their daily routine. Each stallion is bathed and groomed daily. They get the best food. They exercise to keep fit. They lounge outdoors in tranquil pastures. “I wish I was taken care of this
well,” Tina Riggle, Jennifer’s mom, said later. Another photo opportunity came at a statue to the late, great Seattle Slew. The statue, nestled among stately trees, is a short stroll from the barn where the Triple Crown winner spent most of his post-racing life as a leading sire. Other prominent Kentucky horse farms also open their gates to visitors. At Claiborne Farm outside Paris, north of Lexington, visitors see the farm’s stallions, breeding shed and cemetery, where the immortal Secretariat is buried. Ashford Stud near Versailles allows guests to get a look at its stallions during a tour. People can call or email the farms to set up appointments to visit. Meanwhile, an organized touring system is in the works for horse country. Kentucky thoroughbred owners and breeders are working with several area tour companies to allow people to book tours with participating horse farms. Each tour
company would provide transportation. People will book tours through a website — www.horsecapitaltours. com — that lists the participating farms and times for tours. David Switzer, executive director of the Kentucky Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders trade organization, said the goal is to launch the touring program this spring. There will be a fee, but the amount hasn’t been set, he said. Tours will likely run from April into October or November, and he’s hoping packages will also offer stops at other regional attractions such as bourbon distilleries. GL
IF YOU GO... KENTUCKY HORSE FARM TOURS: Call or email to set up appointments at various farms. Three Chimneys Farm, www.threechimneys.com or (859) 873-7053. Fee: $10 per person, with proceeds going to charities. Tuesdays through Saturdays at 1 p.m., with a few exceptions through the year. Summer tours might switch to 10 a.m., so check starting time.
Many people say they wish to be at home. Surrounded by family and friends. Enjoying time and activities in comfort, even if they’re seriously ill. And without being hooked to tubes or machines if at all possible.
Xx Do those sound like wishes you have? Then make your wishes known by completing a Five Wishes Document, and share it with your loved ones and healthcare providers. And be sure to include hospice and palliative care in your plans. That’s the best way to live your final seasons with comfort, dignity and fulfillment.
Call us for a FREE copy of the Five Wishes, a great way to start the conversation about end-of-life with family this holiday season.
800.551.4140 231.547.6092 www.nwhealth.org
HOSPICE
of Northwest Michigan
In partnership with the Health Department of Northwest Michigan
Xxx GOODlife 13
GOOD WORD
Riding the cycle of life by Anne Kelly
T
he older I get, the more I realize that a person needs to keep moving, to keep riding the cycle of life without spending a lot of time looking back. Every time someone e-mails me a nostalgic send-a-long about the good old days, I am tempted to reply (instead of forwarding or deleting) a message along these lines: “Maybe we should just leave those things glowing in our memory closet; they fade when you hang them out in the sun.” Epiphanies that reinforced this conclusion included checking out a site that took me back to the afterschool special of the ‘50s and ‘60s featuring The Mouseketeers: Annette, Bobby, Doreen and the rest. As I watched the gang sing and dance, I was temporarily transported to that other era when I would have given my best Hula-Hoop for a chance to wear ears, a pleated skirt and tap shoes like theirs. Reading the rating reviews, which are entertainment in themselves, I came upon a cyber cynic who thought that they were “a bunch of mouseka-nerds” and “where was the racial diversity, anyway?” Talk about a memory crusher. Then, not too long ago, I came upon a stash of old 45 records in the basement. Some were children’s songs, but mixed in among the find were treasures like “Honey Comb” and “Green Door.” I decided to go on eBay in search of a record player that would play 45s so that my grandchildren could have some fun reliving my past. That Christmas I presented them
14 YOUR LIFE UP NORTH
Anne Kelly
with their new entertainment center. We listened to “Rudolph,” “I Saw Mama Kissing Santa Claus,” “Mother Goose Nursery Songs” and some other scratchy vinyl until I lost them to their iPods. Now I have a box of 45s and a record player in the basement. Once I got over the disappointment that comes with disillusionment, I was sort of on a roll. How many good old memories could I disavow? I ordered up several VHS tapes of the Wonderworks series that was a popular Monday night entertainment hour for our family in the ‘70s. I tried to recreate the warm feelings we used to share around the old RCA 16-inch screen. I popped in “The Canterville Ghost” and was “flabbergasted,” to use an old expression. “What kind of children look and act like that?”
was the first thought that crossed my mind. Another program centered on a teenage boy who had trouble at school until he bonded with a bizarre but amazing substitute teacher. When the film got to the middle school gym for a big basketball game I couldn’t help but notice that the boys were wearing ultra-short shorts and long striped tube socks. It was hard to get past the socks for some reason. A similar affront to all that was once sacred: one of my daughters asked me to bring along the library’s video copy of “Anne of Green Gables” on my next visit. She had just finished reading it to her little girl and couldn’t wait to have her see the movie which we both remembered with fondness. There were two sides on the DVD. The three of us settled in, Annie fell
asleep, and her 9-year-old brother made from lard. Your favorite game the chunky Schwinn bikes and wandered in from playing outside was Jacks, and they’re hard to find some fashions, for better or for and asked, “What is she talking, and harder to teach. Your fam- worse. But would we really want Russian or something?” as he lis- ily trips were so much fun because to type on a Smith Corona and use tened to one of Anne’s soliloquies. you were rolling around on sleeping eraser tape again? Or have party In this age of Google, one is able bags in the back seat of your dad’s lines in on our telephone conversato dig up the past in many ways. I station wagon and not strapped in tions? Or feel sophisticated smokwas curious to see what had be- to safety seats with a five-point har- ing Chesterfield cigarettes? come of one of my first real heart- ness. The moral of the story is this: if throbs. I was 17; he was 25 and a It’s hard to imagine that many you choose to embrace glorified professional basketball player. We times you have to actually explain memories of the past you risk beworked in the same unemployment your memories. ing an anachronism as far as your office in Cleveland one summer. I “I skied in laced boots and long children and grandchildren are still remember that first passionate skis.” concerned, so do it quietly. (for those days) kiss at the Grey— “Really?” I will smile as I page through my hound bus stop. Google located his “I wore a girdle when I was 13.” American Bandstand Yearbook. bio! His picture tells me that, while — “No way!” I’ll never relinquish my autostill alive, he’s not holding up well. I “Our Sunday entertainment was graphed picture of my favorite 1961 will leave him in the hormonal past parking and watching planes land Cleveland Indian (“To Anne, a real along with Pat Boone and Frankie at Cleveland-Hopkins airport.” doll, Jimmy Piersall”). Avalon. Explanations like these usually I’ll marvel over the fact that I Are any memories capable of meet with rolled eyes or “You’re wore a freshman beanie. passing the time test? kidding, right?” But I’ll just keep cycling. “It is Revisiting a childhood home There are so many mixed emo- what it is,” as they say, and “it was usually is a revelation, that your tions as we confront the old versus what it was.” memory of it is much larger and the new. Were the good old days Better leave it at that. GL grander than the actual place. Your and ways really better? Maybe, and grandmother’s pie crust was so de- sometimes the solid gold ones do Anne Kelly is a freelance writer for several local publicious, it turns out, because it was come metamorphosing back like lications. She resides in Charlevoix.
Sunnybank The choice you can feel good about Sunnybank is an attractive alternative for adults who have found some of life’s daily routines challenging. Sunnybank provides the individual attention and assistance that residents need in order to manage on their own - better, longer and with far greater ease than is possible in their own homes.
Assisted Living Services • Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner meals • 24 hour refreshment center • Daily room pick up and bed making • Weekly housekeeping • Flat linen, towel and personal laundry service • Beauty and barber shop
• 24 hour electronic security system • Activity and recreational programs • Short term and respite care • Services such as podiatrist, optometrist, medical laboratory, and various kinds of therapy available
GOODlife 15
GOOD HEALTH
With a grain of salt… Reducing the impact of sodium on your health By Mark Lindsay · Photos by G. Randall Goss
S
odium is added to many foods to enhance the flavor and prolong its shelf life. But a diet that contains too much sodium can lead to many health conditions, such as heart disease, kidney problems and high blood pressure. Until recently, the American Heart Association stated that your body needs about 2,300 milligrams of sodium each day. However, more recent reports issued by the association now indicate a recommendation of around 1,500 milligrams per day or less. 16 YOUR LIFE UP NORTH
Regardless of what the latest recommendations are, according to association studies, most Americans consume far more than the recommended daily allowance. The American Heart Association reports that the average American diet consists of more than 3,500 milligrams per day. It also suggests in its latest reports that the actual required intake of sodium could be as low as 180 milligrams per day for a very inactive person with a normal diet. According to the American Heart Association, lowering your sodium to around 1,500 milligrams per day or less may substantially decrease the risk of high blood pressure, stroke and heart disease. The excess salt in the body increases the amount of fluid and causes strain on the major organs such as the heart and kidneys. Following a lower sodium diet can substantially decrease that strain and contribute to a longer healthier life. If you do get a large amount of sodium, either from food or by shaking it on your meals, it is important to build some strategies into your lifestyle that reduces your intake. Reducing your dependency on salt now will improve your health for many years to come. “There are many ways to lower the amount of salt you use every day,” said Karen Doherty, team leader of the cardiac rehab department at Northern Michigan Regional Hospital in Petoskey. Doherty is a registered nurse-board certified, cardiovascular nurse and certified health coach. Doherty offered several suggestions for lowering the high intake of
salt in the average American diet. “One of the easiest ways is to avoid the salt shaker,” Doherty noted. Keep the salt shaker off the table. Try flavoring your food as you cook it and you will not need to shake salt on your food at mealtimes. It is easy to add too much salt to your food if the salt shaker is within reach. Keep it in the cabinet when you are eating. Some alternatives for seasoning your food are dried parsley, onions and garlic. Any of these will add flavor to your food without increasing intake of salt. Rosemary, thyme, sage and cayenne pepper are additional flavorful options. “Avoid store-bought dressings and sauces as much as possible,” Doherty suggested. “If you do use them, try to have them on the side of your dish and dip your fork in the sauce rather than pouring it onto your meal.” The American Heart Association points out that most Americans get their high sodium intake from fastfood habits. “It can be difficult to entirely change your eating habits in one day,” Doherty said. “Try going in stages and phasing out some of the bad habits that contribute to high sodium intake.” Cook your own meals and replace any packaged meals with home cooked ones, and you will easily cut the amount of sodium you consume. Make your own soup using low-sodium broth or replace salt with herbs such as chili powder to enhance the flavor without adding salt. Cook pasta and rice without adding salt to the water.
There are unsalted and “no salt added” options for many snack products. Making alternative choices when you shop can greatly reduce your sodium intake
“When you’re shopping for gro- Association’s website at www.amerceries, make sure you read food la- icanheart.org. To contact the hosbels” Doherty noted. pital with questions or for more Many canned and frozen foods information on their programs, call have added salt. Choose no-salt (231) 487-4630 or visit www.northadded or low-sodium versions as ernhealth.org. GL much as possible. Opt for lower sodium crackers, cereals and snack foods as well. “Rinse canned goods before eating them,” Doherty said. “If you cannot find low-salt versions of canned meats, beans and vegetables, rinse them well under cool water to wash away much of the added sodium.” Northern Michigan Regional Hospital currently offers literature and assistance with planning a healthier diet to their patients, including a heart healthy cookbook at their gift shop for those interested in recipes. The hospital has plans to offer classes to the public in the future as well. For more information on this Karen Doherty, RN-BC, cardiac nurse and and other topics regarding healthy certified health coach eating, visit the American Heart
SALT VS. SODIUM According to the American Heart Association, table salt is about 40 percent sodium. For those looking to watch sodium intake, these equivalents can be helpful. 1/4 teaspoon salt = 600 milligrams sodium 1/2 teaspoon salt = 1,200 milligrams sodium 3/4 teaspoon salt = 1,800 milligrams sodium 1 teaspoon salt = 2,300 milligrams sodium Source: American Heart Association, www.americanheart.org
GOODlife 17
GOOD BUYS
Josh Baker, owner of The Outfitter in Harbor Springs, demonstrates the supportive arch of a running shoe.
Tennis shoes: The thing for spring activities Photos and story by Morgan Sherburne
A
s city sidewalks dry off and The Outfitter in Harbor Springs. “The biggest thing is a good fit,” park pathways return to a walkable state for the summer, said Baker. “You can fix a lot of ankle, the great outdoors can become an in- knee and hip problems with good shoes.” viting place to exercise. Before you get started, it is imporGood shoes also help walkers from tant to pay attention to the proper overpronating. Pronation is what ocfootwear, said Josh Baker, owner of curs as your foot strikes the ground. In normal pronation, the outside part of your heel hits the ground first, and the foot rolls inward about 15 percent toward the front of the foot. You then push off with your toes and the balls of your feet. Walkers who overpronate roll their feet inward further than the normal 15 percent, and underpronators do not reach that 15 percent. John Richardson, owner of High Gear And though it might seem as if Sports in Petoskey, recommends fita shoe is a shoe is a shoe, different ting shoes with supportive inserts. types of shoes offers very wide rang-
18 YOUR LIFE UP NORTH
ing kinds of support. A typical walking shoe has a stiffer construction and a wider base, said Baker. The stiff shoe helps keep feet, particularly the toes, in place. A shoe with more toe room asks the toes to provide a person with balance, which can be painful for arthritic feet. Another balance benefit from walking shoes is the shoe’s wider base. “As we get older, our stride decreases,” said Baker. “A walking shoe increases stability.” But Baker recommends a running shoe. “Running shoes, as opposed to walking shoes, are more comfortable, feel squishier and offer the same support,” said Baker, but added that a potential drawback is the movement running shoes allow people’s toes. Still, that movement ultimately allows walkers to better their balance. As the toes work to balance the body, muscles used in that balancing act are strengthened. John Richardson, owner of High Gear Sports in Petoskey, stressed the importance of support beyond the basics an off-the-shelf shoe can provide. “We measure the flexibility of a person’s arch, how much the arch will collapse based on whether the arch is weighted or unweighted,” said Richardson, explaining that people with high arches tend to overpronate, while people with flatter feet underpronate. To provide the best support for a person’s unique arch, Richardson recommends additional foot beds. The foot beds can be chosen for either a flatter or higher arch. He also suggests that walkers consult a physical therapist to assess their strength and structure of their gaits. Assessments can help customize shoes to walkers’ individual needs. “Get yourself some decent shoes, and you’ll correct a lot of your problems,” said Richardson. GL
Independence Village of Petoskey
Ă•Ă?ÕÀÞ ,iĂŒÂˆĂ€i“iÂ˜ĂŒ ÂˆĂ›ÂˆÂ˜}
Redecorate Yo u r L i f e ! Sign a Lease by JUNE 1, 2011 and receive a FREE custom accent wall for your apartment!* Independence Village has been a godsend to our family. Our mother resisted leaving a home she loved and had lived in for 57 years. The care and upkeep of her home, combined with her limited mobility, made living alone in her home more challenging in her later years.Since moving to Independence Village she is enjoying the comforts of her lovely new apartment and meeting and making new friends. The whole environment is very warm and welcoming. “Perks�, such as delicious meals, beautiful surroundings, friendly and very caring staff, beauty salon, and the many activities offered add to her enjoyment. Because she loves music,
3PRING Special! Move in by JUNE 1, 2011 and receive $500 off your moving expenses!* * Certain conditions apply
Resident Dorothy Perry and her children Dana, Tom, and Julie
she looks forward, particularly, to all the musical entertainment that is offered. The decision to move to Independence Village has been very comforting and such a wonderful solution for our entire family. Sincerely, >˜>] /œ“] >˜` Ă•Â?ˆi
U Ă“{ Â…ÂœĂ•Ă€ ĂƒĂŒ>vw˜} U -Â…Ă•ĂŒĂŒÂ?i ĂƒiĂ€Ă›ÂˆVi U …œˆVi Âœv £‡Î delicious meals daily U Ă•Â?Â? >VĂŒÂˆĂ›ÂˆĂŒÂˆiĂƒ V>Â?i˜`>Ă€ U >ˆÂ?Ăž Â…ÂœĂ•ĂƒiÂŽiiÂŤÂˆÂ˜} U "Â˜Â‡ĂƒÂˆĂŒi …œ“i Â…i>Â?ĂŒÂ… care available U 1ĂŒÂˆÂ?ÂˆĂŒÂˆiĂƒ ˆ˜VÂ?Ă•`i` U *iĂŒĂƒ ĂœiÂ?Vœ“i ˜` “ÕVÂ… Â“ÂœĂ€it
965 Hager Drive Petoskey, MI 49770
888-777-0327 TDD/TTY 800-649-3777
ĂœĂœĂœÂ°-iÂ˜ÂˆÂœĂ€6ˆÂ?Â?>}iĂƒÂ°Vœ“ U -iÂ˜ÂˆÂœĂ€ 6ˆÂ?Â?>}i >˜>}i` ÂœÂ“Â“Ă•Â˜ÂˆĂŒĂž GOODlife 19
GOOD IDEA
Pickleball, anyone?
By Kristin Bates · Photos by G. Randall Goss
Female competitors (from left) Diane Teichman of Petoskey, Kay Baldwin of Charlevoix, Diane Ellman of Petoskey, and Nancy Rea or Petoskey chat up the game after a heated match.
P
ickleball is the latest craze to take over the nation. As the story goes, this game is named after former Washington state congressman, Joel Pritchard’s dog, Pickles. But what exactly is pickleball? “I would say it’s a combination of tennis and ping pong, though, I am not sure,” laughed Petoskey resident Nancy Rosel, who has been playing pickleball three days a week since September 2008. Diane Ellman, of Petoskey, has been playing for the last year and a half. She added, “People ask me all 20 YOUR LIFE UP NORTH
the time, what is pickleball? I would Petoskey. In pickleball, players use a lightsay it is a cross between tennis and racquetball.” weight wooden paddle and a plastic According to the World Pickle- ball similar to a Wiffle ball. It can ball Federation, the game is a cross be played as singles or doubles to a between tennis and badminton. It is score of 11. Two unique rules to the played on a court that is 20 feet wide game of pickleball are the no-volley by 44 feet long. The net is hung at zone and the two-bounce rule. The 36 inches on each end and hangs 34 no-volley zone is the area from the inches in the middle. net to the short service line. On each “It’s a very exciting game for an old serve, the ball must bounce one time tennis player. It allows me to play a on each side of the net. paddle sport without the joint strain Rea explained, “We call the nothat tennis brings on. It’s an exciting volley zone the kitchen. You can’t hit game to play and a social activity to the ball in the air in the kitchen. This meet new people,” said Tom Rea, of increases the amount of rally time.”
Pickleball is played with a special racket and a Wiffle ball.
Each week, 25 to 30 players meet at the Student and Community Resource Center on the North Central Michigan College campus in Petoskey. The court is reserved 9-11 a.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday. “The majority of us are over 60, though we do have some younger players. It’s way more fun than working out. It’s a competitive game, but nobody takes it seriously. This is the one sport where you are going to hear a lot of laughing,” said Ellman. Carol Kaptrosky, of Pellston, agreed, saying, “It’s good exercise, plus a lot of fun. It just gives you a good feeling.” Rea explained the game is played in a round robin style rotation. “They have the equipment here, so anyone can play. The winning team stays on the court while the losing team lays down their paddles. The winners then split to each side so each game constantly changes players. We try not to intimidate anyone and encourage beginners to learn the game. This way, you won’t get stomped and you learn the finesse of the paddle and the ball,” said Rea. During the summer months, the group moves their games to the outdoors, weather permitting. Tom Rosel, of Petoskey, added, “The exercise keeps you in shape. We try to play three times a week for a few hours each time. New players are always welcome.” There is an open gym fee, which is $3 per person to use the facility. For more information, email Tom Rosel at trosel123@gmail.com. GL
Tom Rosel (left) of Petoskey stretches for one as partner Lee Phillips, also of Petoskey, backs him up.
For All Your Insurance Needs Auto, Home, Business, Life & Health
Wilson Insurance Agency, Inc. 2073 U.S. 31 N., Petoskey (231) 347-4464 I FAX (231) 348-1190
jwilson@wilsoninsurance.us GOODlife 21
COVER STORY
Yoga offers surprising benefits to your health
Mary Reilly (front) of Harbor Springs leads an Iyengar yoga class. By Maggie Peterson · Photos by G. Randall Goss
F
or Mary Reilly, yoga brings strength, focus and connection. The Harbor Springs resident began taking yoga classes at age 22, shortly after graduating from University of Michigan with a degree in biology. She was working at a food co-op and deciding on what to do about graduate school when 22 YOUR LIFE UP NORTH
she enrolled in a class. Yoga in Petoskey and is a senior It took her by surprise. “I real- certified Iyengar yoga instructor. ized I felt a whole lot better after She also heads the certification class than before,” she recalled, committee for Iyengar Yoga Nanoting she was able to better con- tional Association of the United centrate on her studies and tap States. strength through the practice. She Reilly said at its core, yoga is found herself engaging further and about connecting all layers of befurther into it. ing. Today, she owns North Woods “By yoking your body and your
Mary Reilly (center) owns North Woods Yoga in Petoskey.
mind together, you’re getting a spiritual experience,” she said. She began with Iyengar, and it is this style she continues to practice and teach. Because of her passion, since 1989 she has taken month-long trips to Pune, India, for ongoing education and study at the Ramamani Iyengar Memorial Yoga Institute. Through the studies, she has met the developer and founder of Iyengar yoga, B.K.S. Iyengar, and has taken classes from his daughter, Geeta Iyengar, Ph.D. Reilly said Iyengar has developed this style of yoga over the last 75 years, and has written the work “Light on Yoga.” “The Iyengar tradition helps students experience the subtle architecture of each pose by paying attention to alignment and stability. This approach magnifies the healing benefits from each pose and cultivates a strong body-mind connection,” Reilly noted. She added that certified Iyengar
teachers are trained to help stu- body,” Reilly noted. dents achieve that balance, someDr. Andrea Naylor is medical ditimes with the use of props. rector of the Acute Rehabilitation “You should feel safe in the Unit of Northern Michigan Repose and strong ... (Props are) not gional Hospital in Petoskey, as well crutches; they’re teachers. Props as physical advisor for rehabilitareally teach relationships in the tion services. She said yoga is a way to enhance relaxation, improve energy and flexibility, and strengthen the body, especially the core and legs. A strengthened core can help with urinary incontinence issues, especially in women, as well as lessen the pain in the back and arthritic joints. Naylor said help with arthritis comes because the muscles grow stronger around the joints, which helps reduce wear and tear. Naylor said as with most activity, those looking to start yoga should talk to their primary care physician about their ability to participate in a specific exercise program. She also suggested starting in a Courtesy photo class, and talking with the instrucDr. Andrea Naylor tor about concerns one might4 GOODlife 23
YOGA FOR HEALTH Continued from page 23
have, especially if there are physical limitations such as painful joints. “They need to have someone who can walk them through their disability or impairment so that the patient is performing to the level they are ready for,” Naylor noted, adding that those beginning yoga should “pursue the gentlest program to start off with, and let their body be their guide.” Naylor added that yoga is often a good complement for outdoor activity such as walking or biking, and Reilly echoed the sentiment. She said yoga helps provide a base level of fitness that’s functional for sporting and everyday activities. “You go to pick up a bag of groceries and it’s no big deal,” she noted. In her own life, she said yoga as a part of the aging process was something she was introduced to in her very first class. She was the youngest in the group but was being surpassed by the other classmates. Now, when she hears others talk of their issues with strength and flexibility, she doesn’t find herself in the same boat. “I feel OK even though I’m aging. I don’t feel what other people are feeling ... We all feel ourselves aging, but I still have a lot of goals to reach for in yoga, and I’m on my way,” she said. GL
YOGA GLOSSARY Yoga: The path which integrates the body, senses, mind and the intelligence, with the self. Asanas: Postures or poses; using these postures to cultivate consciousness is one of the eight limbs of yoga. Ashtanga: Eight limbed path of yoga; also a method of yoga with fixed sequences of asanas developed by Pattabhi Jois. Prana: Vital energy or life force.
24 YOUR LIFE UP NORTH
Mary Reilly said yoga can lead to increased focus, flexibility and a base level of fitness.
Pranayama: Control of energy through breath work.
Anusara Yoga: A form of yoga developed by John Friend; emphasizes heartfulness.
Iyengar Yoga: From the teachings of B.K.S. Iyengar, focuses on alignment and cultivating awareness and intelligence in asana and pranayama. Many different sequences are employed; asanas generally learned individually but occasionally done in a vinyasa.
Vinyasa: Sometimes called flow, asanas are done one after the other with no breaks.
Hatha Yoga: A yoga of firmness and determined discipline; commonly refers to practicing the postures and pranayamas.
Power yoga: Developed by Beryl Bendr Birch and Brian Kest; yoga adapted to fitness building; emphasizes strength and flexibility. Source: Mary Reilly of North Woods Yoga in Petoskey, www.northwoodsyoga.com
Central Drug Store
As pain specialists
We understand... your pain is not trivial. Our goal is to manage pain with as few side effects as possible and to provide multiple treatment options that will support the individual’s level of function.
WE OFFER: • On-site injection therapies • Medication management
Lani & John Ochs, Pharmacists Serving & supporting Charlevoix since 1897 Ochs Family operated since 1914
We provide evaluation and treatment for all types of pain problems, including pain due to:
Complete Prescription Services and Education Diabetic Supplies
• Back and neck pain • Chronic headache and facial pain • Cancer-related pain • Complex regional pain syndrome (RSD) • Fibromyalgia • Phantom limb pain • Diabetic neuropathy
We Pack & Ship UPS
• Pelvic pain • Chest wall pain • Shingles (post-herpetic neuralgia) • Myofascial and other soft tissue problems • Musculoskeletal pain • Carpal tunnel syndrome • Neurological pain
Local pain specialist: Gary L. Fuchs, MD Board Certified in Anesthesia Board Certified in Pain Management
Northern Michigan After hours emergencies 231-547-4726
Pain Specialists, PC
Charlevoix downtown by the traffic light Open M-F 8-6, Sat 9-5
1420 Plaza Drive, Suite 2B • Petoskey, MI 49770 231-487-4650 • Fax: 231-487-4601 Across from Home Depot and Office Max MOST INSURANCES ACCEPTED • NO REFERRAL REQUIRED
(231) 547-2424
Still Living with Back Pain?
providing 25 years of better hearing
My grandson
tells
the best jokes.
It’s time to do something about it!
Pain is Personal... So is the treatment We offer an all around approach to Back Pain and will assess your individual needs, lifestyle, and health.
Call today for your appointment with our Chiropractic Applied Kinesiologist Specialist and take the first step to a pain free life! Most Insurance Accepted 8983 M-119 • Petoskey
347-4445
www.benoclinic.com Special Offer For New Patients
reason #2
In our 25 years of hearing care, we’ve heard a lot of reasons why our patients’ lives were changed by wearing hearing aids. And now we’re sharing them with you. To hear all of our stories, visit us at our stores, online, or on one of the many social outlets we take part in. See you soon!
Special Anniversary Offer: The New Motion™ 301 Hearing Aids from Siemens
Gaylord 854 North Center
All Models $ ONLY 1,645 ea. Not valid with any other offer or discount. *
*
Expires June 30, 2011. Your insurance plan may cover hearing aids. Call today to inquire. Join us on:
Dr. Michael W. Koskus, Ph.D., CCC-A
800.968.8080 Petoskey Fifth Third Bank Bldg. 500 Madison St.
231.348.3666
Matthew L. Christy, Au.D., Licensed Hearing Aid Dispenser #3501003413 Find us online!
GOODlife 25
GOOD CENTS
Nurturing your nest egg Roth IRAs and what they could mean for you By Mark Lindsay · Photos by G. Randall Goss
F
or the 2011 tax year there are some changes that have been made regarding Roth IRAs. If you haven’t invested in one in the past, there could be good reason to do so now. According to David Farley, of Raymond James & Associates in 26 YOUR LIFE UP NORTH
Petoskey, a Roth individual retire- tributions may be tax-deductible ment account (IRA) is simply a and can grow tax-deferred. With personal savings plan that offers a Roth IRA, your contributions tax benefits to encourage retire- are non-deductible, but have the ment savings. potential to grow tax free. With Traditional and Roth IRAs are traditional IRAs you must stop both designed to help you save for making contributions when you retirement, noted Larry Cassidy reach the age of 70, while with a with Primerica in Harbor Springs. Roth IRA there is no age cap. With a traditional IRA, your conOne of the major factors for
deciding between a Roth and traditional IRA is your eligibility to deduct traditional IRA contributions and in turn get a tax break for the year you make the contribution, Cassidy added. Your eligibility to deduct traditional IRA contributions, however, depends on whether you meet certain requirements. Contributions to Roth IRAs are never deductible. The Roth IRA was created in 1998 as a result of the Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997. Its namesake is the late Sen. William V. Roth Jr. The Roth IRA does not allow for tax deduction for contributions; instead, all earnings are tax-free when withdrawn by either you or your beneficiary. “You can contribute up to the lesser of $5,000 in 2010 and 2011, or 100 percent of your taxable compensation to a Roth IRA,” Farley noted. “In addition, individuals age 50 or older can make an extra ‘catch-up’ contribution of up to $1,000.” Cassidy suggested that anyone with the ability to invest longterm in a Roth IRA should look into doing so. “Roth IRAs allow you to avoid significant taxes and offer no forced distributions that a traditional IRA might,” he noted. Contributions to a Roth IRA are not tax deductible, but the funds grow tax deferred and distributions are tax-free under certain conditions. “Any time you can invest and see growth without taxes is a good thing,” Cassidy noted. Contributions must be made by your tax filing date for the tax year in question, so you may choose to invest right up to the filing date. Some of the changes to the 2011 Roth IRA are: — Income limits have increased
$2,000 for both single tax filers and married couples filing joint over the 2010 levels. — Single filers can fully contribute to a Roth IRA if their modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) falls below $107,000. — The income cap is removed in 2011 just as it was in 2010. However, there is one significant change to the conversion rules in 2011. The tax incurred from converting to a Roth IRA in 2011 must be paid on your 2011 taxes. A few of the primary reasons to choose a Roth IRA are: — Qualified distributions are completely tax free (and penalty free). — You can contribute after age 70½ (as long as you have taxable compensation). — You have flexibility in withdrawing your funds prior to retirement. — You are not required to take any distributions while you are alive. — Contributions can be made even if you are covered by an employer-sponsored retirement plan. “In deciding whether to make contributions to a Roth IRA, a taxpayer should take into account a number of factors,” Farley noted. “Some of these factors are eligibility to make contributions, the number of years to accumulate earnings, the time projected to begin distributions and current versus future tax brackets. “A taxpayer must consider whether the current deduction of contributions to a traditional IRA is more valuable than the future recovery of earnings tax free,” Farley said. “So the question of whether or not to invest in a Roth IRA will best be answered by someone who provides tax advice, like a CPA or accountant.” GL
Dave Farley of Raymond James & Associates
Larry Cassidy of Primerica
GOODlife 27
GOOD SAMARITAN
Volunteers are part of what makes the Waterfront Wine Festival in Harbor Springs happen each year. File photo
Helping hands needed By Morgan Sherburne
H
ere’s a small secret: to access the best parts of Northern Michigan’s summer festivals — not only without paying any extra, but without paying anything at all — consider volunteering. From galas celebrating wine to events centered around running, there are more than enough festivals to fit any person’s volunteering wish list. Boyne City
The Fourth of July always brings a bevy of celebrations to Northern Michigan. Boyne City is looking for volunteers to give an hour or two of their time to set up barricades for the Fourth of July parade, to help register runners for the twomile and 10K race, and to help with 28 YOUR LIFE UP NORTH
crowd control during the parade. To offer a hand, contact Liz Kroondyk at (231) 675-5014. In volunteering for the Boyne Thunder boating event, you benefit more than the event itself. As of 2010, Boyne Thunder has raised more than $182,000 for Camp Quality, a camp that provides support and special experiences for children with cancer. The event will take place Friday and Saturday, July 8-9. For more information, contact Camp Quality director Eleanor West by phone at (231) 330-1710 or by email at campquality@att. net. Hugh Conklin, manager of the Boyne City Main Street program, is also available for inquiry by phone at (231) 582-9009 or by email at mainstreet@boynecity.com. Volunteers will be put on a list and noti-
fied of potential duties. Charlevoix
If the thought of a marathon makes you want to run in the opposite direction, don’t — marathoners need people on the sidelines, too. The Charlevoix Marathon is always looking for volunteers to cheer runners on, hand out ice chips and work the aid stations. The races, which include a marathon, half marathon, 10K and 5K, will take place on Saturday, June 25. To volunteer, contact Ron or Sharon Suffolk by phone at (248) 437-4524 or by email at ron@goodboyevents.com or sharon@goodboyevents.com. East Jordan
And if you need a little variety in your volunteering, East Jordan has it all.
On Friday and Saturday, May 2728, volunteers are needed to organize the event, Garage Sales across the Breezeway. On Thursday, June 30, the Breezeway Car Cruise will leave from Boyne Falls and travel to Atwood, through all the towns on the Breezeway. The South Arm Classics delivers a three-for-one: car and boat buffs can get their fill of classic vehicles while beer fans can work the microbrew fest and art lovers can browse Art Jordan, the art fair. The South Arm Classics will take place on Saturday, July 9. Contact the chamber at (231) 536-7351 for more information regarding volunteering opportunities. Harbor Springs
Harbor Springs tosses its hat into the Fourth of July ring as well. The Fourth of July parade route requires volunteers to help organize it. A week earlier, Harbor is also looking for people with a good pour: the Waterfront Wine Festival will take place from 4-7 p.m. on Saturday, June 25, at the Harbor Springs waterfront, and the organization is looking for volunteers to take tickets and pour wine. For more information for both events, contact the Harbor Springs Area Chamber of Commerce at (231) 526-7999. Petoskey
The Petoskey Regional Chamber of Commerce is looking for volunteers to work Festival on the Bay. The ninth annual festival will take place Friday through Sunday, Aug. 19-21, at the waterfront. Approximately 80 volunteers will be asked to work a wide variety of shifts short enough to fit anyone’s schedule. For more information, contact Kathy Bardins by phone at (231) 487-1188 or by email at kbardins@winternet. com. GL
File photos Boyne City seeks volunteers annually to help with its Fourth of July parade.
GOODlife 29
30 YOUR LIFE UP NORTH
Home Care by Seniors for Seniors
Lift chairs provide a bit of “oomph” if you need help getting up. Lift chairs are available in a variety of fabrics to complement any de’cor.
Our loving, caring compassionate seniors are there to help. We offer all the services you need to stay in your own home, living independently.
• Companion Care • Housekeeping Services • Meal preparation/cooking • Personal Care • Overnight and 24-hour Care • Transportation • Shopping • Doctor Appointments • and more!
Need a Lift? Lift Chairs Starting at $570
Serving Petoskey and northern Michigan
Call us today. Like getting a little help from your friendsTM. Call us at 989-448-8323 or visit our website at www.seniorshelpingseniors.com ©2009 Each office is independently owned and operated. All trademarks are registered trademarks of Corporate Mutual Resources Incorporated.
www.airwayoxygeninc.com 330 W. Mitchell | Petoskey, MI 49770 | 231.348.8343
Your Source for Great Health Quality Vitamins & Herbs • Sports Nutrition Organic & Natural Foods • Organic Meats & Dairy Homeopathy • Natural Cosmetics
We accept insurance! Patient Centered Medical Home
offering general healthcare health education, and behavioral health services.
ence! d i r e Exp Staff
Toski-Sands Plaza | Harbor-Petoskey Rd. Petoskey | 348-8390
GOODlife 31
SUPER
seniors
1ST MONDAY OF EVERY MONTH VETERANS & ACTIVE DUTY PERSONNEL WITH MILITARY ID RECEIVE A FOOD VOUCHER VALID FOR A FREE LUNCH OR DINNER BUFFET IN WAAS-NO-DÉ BUFFET. MUST PRESENT MILITARY ID AT OPTIMUM REWARDS. FOOD VOUCHERS VALID FOR ISSUE DATE ONLY.
Every Sunday & Wednesday for Guests 50+
3x points
Every Sunday & Wednesday
$895 Lunch Buffet Monday through Saturday
Drink Specials in Rendezvous
– 1st Place Wins –
$1,000.00 CASH! Last Thursday of Every Month • 6pm – 9pm (Registration begins at 4pm near Rendezvous Lounge)
FREE Entry for all “O” Club and Optimum Rewards members. IN THE EVENT OF A TIE, THE PRIZE AMOUNT WILL BE SPLIT.
!"#$% the BEST! 1760 Lears Road • Petoskey, Michigan (877) 4-GAMING • www.odawacasino.com Owned and operated by the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians. Odawa Casino Resort reserves the right to cancel or modify any and all promotions at any time without prior notice.
32 YOUR LIFE UP NORTH