November/December 2012
Your life up north
Goodlife
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Contents 10 18
features
On the cover: Little Traverse Choral Society musical director David Sawtelle (right) leads the group through a rehearsal for their winter concert. Photo by G. Randall Goss
5 Good Taste Homemade pizza dough
9 Nod to Nostalgia 1964
16 Good Word Rick Fowler
6-8 Good Stuff Good to Go: Extension exercise
10 Good Health Preventing influenza
18 Good Sport Charlevoix Area Community Pool
Grandparenting: Visiting a local museum Good Humor: Katie MacInnis
12 Cover story Little Traverse Choral Society 15 Good Cents Making the move to independent retirement living
20 Good Buys Finding the right snow shovel 22 Good Idea Snowshoeing GOODlife 3
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November/december 2012 - Volume 4, Issue 2 Publisher Doug Caldwell Editor Sheri Mcwhirter-O’Donnell 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
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© GoodLife, all rights reserved, 2012. 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
4 Your LIFE UP NORTH
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Good taste
Skip the delivery... Article & photo by Metro Creative Connection
P
izza is among the most popular foods for adults and children alike. Since it was first enjoyed hundreds of years ago, billions of slices of pizza have been eaten worldwide. Americans alone eat approximately 350 slices per second. While popular toppings in North America include pepperoni, mushrooms and sausage, in countries like India, pickled ginger and minced mutton are eaten on pizza. In Japan, squid and Mayo Jaga are common. However pizza is enjoyed, it’s one of the few foods that transcends generations. It can be both gourmet fare and quick finger food depending on the venue. Furthermore, pizza can be made and enjoyed at home. One of the secrets of good pizza is the dough. While some people shy away from yeast doughs at home, with a little know-how home chefs can begin making pizza just like the professionals. Aspiring pizza pros or just people who love their pizza can try their hands at this recipe for delicious pizza dough, which can
Basic pizza dough recipe a kitchen staple
be customized with toppings and flavors as desired. Easy Pizza Dough Milk replaces water in this recipe to add flavor to the dough. If milk isn’t available, substitute with water. 4 cups bread or allpurpose white flour 11/4 cups lukewarm milk 21/4 teaspoons active dry yeast 2
tablespoons olive oil
1
teaspoon sugar
1
teaspoon salt
1/4 cup additional milk 1. Preheat oven to 450 F. 2. Prepare the dough “starter.” In a large liquid measuring cup, add the 11/4 cups warm milk, 1 teaspoon sugar and the yeast. Stir and set aside for 5 minutes. Allow the starter to foam up, which is called proofing. 3. In a large mixing bowl, add the flour and make a well in the center of the flour. Add the
salt. Mix to combine well. 4. Mix the starter with the remaining milk, olive oil and the flour in the mixing bowl until combined and a little sticky. 5. Either turn out the dough onto a floured surface and knead by hand for 8 minutes to get a smooth, elastic, rubbery dough ball, or use a stand mixer with a dough hook to knead. 6. Put the kneaded dough in a bowl and drizzle with some olive oil. Cover the dough with a damp towel or plastic wrap. Allow to rise around an hour, or until it doubles in size. The rate of rising will depend on the temperature in the house and the potency of the yeast. 7. Sprinkle cornmeal on the bottom of the pizza pan. Deflate the dough and press into the pan. Stretch and flatten as necessary. 8. Top with sauce, cheese and favorite toppings. Bake for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until the bottom of the pizza looks slightly browned. GOODlife 5
Good Stuff Good to go
Extension exercise
Photos by G. Randall Goss
Physical therapist Wendi Stadt said she recommends a particular type of extension exercise to help aging patients combat the effects of osteoporosis. Stadt’s speciality is Pilates, which she uses with many of her clients. Pilates is a type of exercise that uses apparatus intended to improve strength, flexibility and posture. “The problem is, especially with older ladies, they can have osteoporosis. So I do a lot of Pilates, and mainstream Pilates is flexion and extension,” Stadt said. She explained how most people spend much of their time in flexion positions, meaning contracting muscles to bend limbs or hunch over. To remedy the problems constant flexion creates, Stadt said extension exercises are ideal and can fight the impacts of
osteoporosis, too. “Everybody spends so much time in flexion, leaning over, sitting at a computer, bending over to do the laundry or the dishes. The back muscles can become very weak and then they can get injured,” said Stadt, who treats patients at Boyne Rehabilitation Center in Boyne City. However, Stadt said anyone with existing back problems should consult a doctor or physical therapist before trying this exercise solo. Needed items for Stadt’s extension exercise include either the floor or other firm surface, though a bed can be used by those who don’t wish to risk exercising on the floor and not being able to get back up again. A firm surface is best, she said.
Position No. 1: Lie flat on your stomach, with arms out but elbows bent at 90-degree angles, so your hands are positioned on either side of your head. Pull your bellybutton up off the table while keeping your legs together and your spine aligned, then hold that position for several seconds before relaxing back down to the flat surface. This step can be repeated several times.
Physical therapist Wendi Stadt, of the Boyne Rehabilitation Center.
Position No. 2: Lie on your stomach, but prop yourself up on your elbows, which should be placed directly under your shoulders. Keep your head in line with your spine, meaning don’t tilt your head backwards to look upwards. Repeat lifting your bellybutton up off the table, again while keeping your spine aligned and legs together. Hold the position for several seconds before relaxing your tummy back to the flat surface. This step also can be repeated several times.
Position No. 3: Lie flat on your stom-
Susan Roache, 57, of Petoskey, demonstrates the extension exercise. 6 Your LIFE UP NORTH
ach, with your arms extended up above your head and shoulders. Again repeat lifting your bellybutton up off the table while keeping your spine aligned and legs together, but also lift your arms, head and neck off the surface, too. This will feel like you are elongating your body, Stadt said. While you are lifted up from the surface, pause to breathe in and then exhale as you lower your upper body back to the flat surface.
Again, each position should be held for a few moments before relaxing back to the rest position. The different exercise positions also can be repeated to improve strength and endurance. But you shouldn’t push yourself to stretch further than your body allows, Stadt said. “You have to go where your shoulders’ range of motion allows you,” she said. GL — Sheri McWhirter
Good Stuff Grandparenting
Visit a local nonprofit museum
G
oing somewhere special can be a treat for both grandparents and grandchildren and Northern Michigan has museums and art galleries with plenty of offerings for youngsters.
Raven Hill Discovery Center is a nonprofit children’s science, history and art museum with both indoor and outdoor activities for young children and teenagers. Among the most popular attractions at the center are the outdoor music garden and treehouse, along with the indoor animal room and hands-on museum. “The hands-on museum is excellent for kids of all ages,” said Cheri Leach, the center’s founder and primary educator. G. Randall Goss/GoodLife Kim Diller, of East Jordan, races tiny cars with her grandson Benjamin Doran, 19 months, also Grandparents can explore the of East Jordan, on a gravity race track at the Raven Hill Discovery Center in East Jordan. The museum with their grandchildren two are regular visitors to the center which offers interesting science activities for all ages. and discover the science lesson in each display, or experience a close encounter with the tortoises or tion classes, dance and movement during the fall and winter season other reptiles in the animal room. programs and cookie baking and from noon-4 p.m. Saturdays and Each creature teaches its own bi- decoration sessions. 2-4 p.m. Sundays, or by appointology lesson and can be both eduFor older grandchildren, the ment. Call (231) 536-3369 or visit cational and entertaining for the center offers a stop motion anima- www.ravenhilldiscoverycenter.org adults and youngsters, Leach said. tion program for teens between online for more information. “Nearly half of our summer visi- seventh and 12th grades. This alCrooked Tree Arts Center is tors are grandparents bringing lows the students to work with at 461 E. Mitchell St. in Petoskey their grandchildren,” she said. the challenging three-dimension- and admission is free. The center is Raven Hill, in rural East Jordan, al style of animation known for open from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday takes appointments for various creating the California Raisins, through Friday, though from 10 classes or science projects, along “The Nightmare Before Christ- a.m.-5 p.m. on Wednesday. Also, with history and art programs. mas” movie and the “Wallace and the center is open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. In Petoskey, the nonprofit Grommit” program. Saturday. Call (231) 347-4337 or Crooked Tree Arts Center also ofRaven Hill Discovery Center is visit www.crookedtree.org online fers programs that grandparents at 4737 Fuller Road in Charlevoix for more information. GL could delve into with their grand- County’s Wilson Township and children. There are art explora- admission is $8. The center is open — Sheri McWhirter
GOODlife 7
Good Stuff Good humor
Pilgrim stories One year, my family couldn’t come for Thanksgiving dinner, so I invited different “pilgrims and Indians.” It was probably one of our best celebrations. My husband calls it the “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” dinner, and we both know which year he means. I learned social work from my mother. She would always ask the lonely or forgotten to our family holiday dinners. Year after year, I ate turkey with new “friends.” One very ancient man had the most amazing hair growing out of his ears and because I was 7, I thought it was a perfect subject to talk about. At our dinner, we had two 90plus ladies who told of prior feasts from both lean and bountiful years. Their history lessons were alive and meaningful. Neither could hear worth beans with their hearing aids safely tucked in their purses, but they could tell wonderful stories. Another woman I met by giving rides from the safe house. She had a fascinating life of travel, education and professional work until everything went off the track when she became blind and her husband adjusted by hitting her. Two other women were without family, in part because they were difficult to be around. One still had the small Band-Aid over a hospital IV site (intravenous therapy) from her suicide attempt, and the other woman is deeply religious and happy to tell you so. So what was “best” about this celebration? To this day, I still remember the delicious salad of beets with goat cheese and glazed walnuts made by the very 8 Your LIFE UP NORTH
depressed lady. The dishes that disappeared, the turkey bones relieved of their meat, the purr of the dishwasher, while the other lady saved our kitchen, singing hymns. One older woman told of steam train rides across the country and living near a reservation when her husband served as bishop to the Native Americans of Wyoming. The other lady remembered her coal miner dad who only wanted to be a farmer. So after a day in the mine, he would tend to the apple tree, chicken coop, rows of grapes and a garden full of bounty for his seven children and wife, all in their modest backyard. My husband and I are starting to lose our hearing; one of us has lots of ear hair. Maybe we will need an invitation someday. But offering hospitality of food or companionship on one day out of the year seems disingenuous. It turns out all they wanted was for us to listen, to hear their story. Or if they were too sick or wounded to talk, just to pass them the rolls. My family from downstate is interesting, but certainly not this memorable. After everyone was home, (only one of them could drive) and we were back in our nest, my husband and I missed the other cuckoos. GL — Katie MacInnis Katie MacInnis is a retired nurse living in Harbor Springs with her husband Charlie. She became a nurse after obtaining a bachelor of arts degree in English and waiting tables for a year or two. Nursing and writing are still important to her, though only as volunteer work. She and her husband love living in Northern Michigan.
NOD to to Nostalgia -- 19XX 1964 Music
The Beatles
The Beatles were already famous in the United Kingdom, but xxxxxx in 1964 “Beatlemania” crossed the Atlantic Ocean and the “British Invasion” began, marked by performances by the group on The Ed Sullivan Show. Sulxxxxxxxxxx livan noticed a pack of screaming Beatles fans in late 1963 at London Heathrow Airport and shortly thereafter booked the band for three appearances on his show. The band included John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr, often known as the “Fab Four” as their popularity rose in their home country. To this day, The Beatles are the best-selling band in history, with an estimated sold units at more than one billion, according to EMI Records. Music fans bought more music by The Beatles than any other band or musician in both the United Kingdom and the United States.
xxxxxxx
In the news In the news
Movie
Dr. Strangelove
The film “Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb,” is xxxxxx more commonly known simply as “Dr. Strangelove.” Widely celebrated filmmaker Stanley Kubrick directed, proxxxxxxxxxx duced and co-wrote the movie, which starred Peter Sellers and George C. Scott. Kubrick loosely based the film on Peter George’s novel “Red Alert,” a Cold War thriller. The plot involves a deranged United States Air Force general who orders a first-strike nuclear attack on the Soviet Union. The film failed to win any of the coveted film awards, but found a place in American history, all the same. The U.S. Library of Congress deemed the film culturally significant in 1989 and chose it for preservation in the National Film Registry.
xxxxxxx
The way it was The way it was
G.I. Joe
— U.S. President Lyndon Johnson declared a “War Toy company Hason Poverty” in his first bro released G.I. Joe in 1964, which led to State of the Union address the new term “action on Jan. 8. figure” in English ver— The U.S. surgeon xxxxxxreported smoking xxxxxx biage. The initial regeneral lease of the toy includmay be hazardous to one’s ed figures to represent health for the first time on Jan. 11. four branches of the — The U.S. government authorized the 24th xxxxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxx U.S. military. The toy Amendment to the Constitution to outlaw the poll line quickly appealed to children and the brand tax on Feb. 4. grew to icon status among American toys. The — Malcolm X gave a famous speech titled “The original G.I. Joe toys were 12 inches tall and deBallot or the Bullet” in Detroit on April 12. signed to be realistic action figures. In the United — American civil rights movement leader Martin Kingdom, Palitoy released the line of toys as AcLuther King Jr. on Oct. 14 became the youngest retion Man. cipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, awarded to him for Toy-makers relaunched the line in 1982 at a his leadership of the non-violent resistance meant to scale less than four inches tall with a more develend U.S. racial prejudices. He collected the award on oped background story. The new G.I. Joe could Dec. 10 in Oslo, Norway. be purchased with vehicles and play sets. The — Boisterous comedian Lenny Bruce was senNational Toy Hall of Fame in Rochester, N.Y., intenced to four months in prison on Dec. 22 after a G.I. Joe in readers, 2003. let us know! six-month obscenity trial in New York. received If you have a favorite nostalgic item He you’d like to share ducted with GOODLife a posthumous pardon.
xxxxxxx
xxxxxxx
E-mail Beth Anne at bpiehl@petoskeynews.com.
GOODlife 9
Good health
Preventing influenza:
Vaccinate! Metro Creative Services
I
f you’re 65 or older, the flu prevention message for you this year is simple: Get the flu shot as soon as you can. This year — and every year — health officials urge you to get the seasonal flu vaccine as soon as it’s available in your community. Older adults are at greater risk of serious flu-related complications, such as pneumonia, hospital stays and dying from the flu when compared with young, healthy adults. This is because the body’s ability to fight illness drops as you age. In fact, each year about 9 out of 10 seasonal flu-related deaths and more than 6 out of 10 seasonal flu-related hospital stays in the United States occur in people 65 years and older. “Flu season typically peaks in January or February and can last as late as April or May,” says Dr. Anne Schuchat, Assistant Surgeon General of the U.S. Public Health Service and director of Centers for Disease Control’s National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases. “We are encouraging people who have not yet been vaccinated to get vaccinated now.” For millions of people each year, the flu can bring a fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle aches, fatigue, and miserable days spent in bed instead of 10 Your LIFE UP NORTH
G. Randall Goss/GoodLife
at work or school. However, you may not realize that more than 200,000 people are hospitalized from flu complications each year. The flu can also be deadly. Between 1976 and 2007, CDC estimates that annual flu-associated deaths in the United States have ranged from a low of about 3,000 people to a high of about 49,000 people. The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone 6 months and older. It’s available in two forms: a shot and a nasal spray. While the flu shot can be given to just about everyone, the nasal spray is
approved only for use in healthy people ages 2 to 49 years and who aren’t pregnant. Anyone can get the flu, but some people are at greater risk for serious flu-related complications, like pneumonia, that can lead to hospitalization and even death. For those at greater risk for complications, getting the flu vaccine is especially important. People at greater risk include:
— Children younger than 5 years old, but especially children younger than 2 years old — Pregnant women — People with certain medical conditions
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It’s also important to get the vaccine if you care for anyone in one or more of these high risk groups, or for babies younger than 6 months because they are too young to get the vaccine. Many children need two doses of flu vaccine to be fully protected. If a child has not received his/her first dose, get them vaccinated now. For those who have been vaccinated with one dose, parents should check with the child’s doctor to see if a second dose is needed. Experts say you should get the flu shot as soon as it’s available, as the timing of influenza circulation is unpredictable and sometimes starts in the early autumn. But even once winter begins, it’s not too late, officials say. After a busy holiday season, you might be reluctant to add one more thing to your to-do list. But it’s worth it. “Getting the flu vaccine is simple, and it’s the most important thing you can do to protect yourself and your family from the flu,” says Dr. Schuchat. Flu vaccines are offered in many locations, including doctor’s offices, clinics, health departments, pharmacies and college health centers. They are also offered by many employers, and are even available in some schools. So make an appointment with your doctor or clinic today. For more information about influenza or the flu vaccine, talk to your doctor or nurse, visit www.flu.gov or call Centers for Disease Control at 1-800-CDC-INFO.
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GOODlife 11
Cover
story
Classic singers, Michigan
carols
Little Traverse Choral Society plans coming Christmas concerts
Little Traverse Choral Society musical director David Sawtelle (right) leads the group through a rehearsal for their winter concert.
Michigan composer Alfred Burt. The cornetist and jazz musician who concert is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on was born in Marquette and lived in Saturday, Dec. 1, at the United Meth- Pontiac. His father was the minister avid Sawtelle, the new director odist Church in Petoskey and again at at All Saints Episcopal Church and of the nonprofit Little Traverse 3 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 2, at Cross in each Christmas they sent to all their Choral Society, may be from the Woods National Shrine in Indian friends and parishioners a Christmas Texas, but he is quickly turning to River. hymn composed by Burt. The tradiPure Michigan. “I want to make these beautiful tion started in 1922 with his father, For Sawtelle’s debut concert hymns more familiar to everyone and Burt carried it forward. The with the local choral society he has and more a part of our Christmas church organist Wihla Hutson wrote planned a made-in-Michigan pro- tradition,” said Sawtelle. the lyrics and Burt arranged the cargram titled “A Choral Christmas Alfred Burt, who was born in 1920 ols for band. Card.” It features 10 carols written by and died in 1954, was a trumpeter, Some of the songs will be done By Mary Jane Doerr
Photos by G. Randall Goss
D
12 Your LIFE UP NORTH
David Goldstone (left) directs the male members of the Little Traverse Choral Society during a rehearsal at Petoskey High School. The choral society will be performing their 24th winter concerts in December.
a cappella at the coming Little Traverse Choral Society concerts, some with piano accompaniment and some with flute accompaniment. Rita McIntyre, organist at Cross in the Woods, will perform as the accompanist to the singing group. Sawtelle also plays the trumpet, along with the violin, and just completed his master’s degree in music for orchestral conducting. He earned his degree from Texas State University. Sawtelle’s wife of five years — originally Jane Waugh — also is an educator and a graduate of Petoskey High School, a member of the Class of 1979. She always wanted to run a consignment store, so she’s going to give that career a shot. Jane’s niece and nephew own the Main Street Market Square store in Cheboygan, so the Sawtelles decided to relocate to Northern Michigan. They packed up, sold their Texas home and moved to Cheboygan where they were able to buy two houses — one to rent and one to ren-
ovate. Jane opened her dream store and Sawtelle landed the job as the appointed director of the Crooked Tree Arts Center eddi Award-winning choral society. Sawtelle also will assist Robert Dudd with the Crooked Tree Orchestra program. “We were attracted to David not only because of his superb credentials, but also by his engaging personality,” said Sulane Hamilton, now in her second year as executive director of the Little Traverse Choral Society. The choral society launched in 1986 and was officially organized in 1989. It is a non-audition chorus of singers from a variety of backgrounds who enjoy ensemble performing. Three of the singers — Charleen Brown, Helene Kleymeer and Julie Pierpont — are charter members and still sing with the group because they enjoy the classical fare for which the group is known. Rehearsals have begun for the
winter concert with nearly 60 singers, including 10 new members. Jean Fought, a soprano who is just one concert short of being a charter member, said she likes the challenge of the music and the blend of the voices. “Each one of these Burt carols is a gem with beautiful words and harmony. They capture the range of the Christmas story,” Fought said. With their new careers under way and an exciting Christmas concert on the horizon, David and Jane Sawtelle are ready to settle into their new Northern Michigan home, where they plan to enjoy the coming long winter nights. Call (231) 526-5093 for more information about the choral society, or send email messages to littletraversechoralsociety@gmail.com. The nonprofit organization also accepts donations to continue its performances of signature classical pieces by a chorus of singers of all ages. GL GOODlife 13
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PETOSKEY
Go placidly amid the noise and haste,and remember what peace there may be in silence.As far as possible without surrenderbe on good terms with all persons.Speak your truth quietly and clearly;and listen to others,even the dull and the ignorant;they too have their story.Avoid loud and aggressive persons,they are vexations to the spirit.If you com-
ALANSON
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pare yourself with others,you may become vain or bitter;for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.Keep interested in your own career, however
BOYNE CITY humble;it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.Exercise caution in your business affairs;for the world is full of trickery.But let this not blind you to what virtue there is;many persons strive for high ideals;and everywhere life is full of heroism.Be yourself.Especially, do not feign affection.Neither be cynical about love;for
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EAST JORDAN
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in the face of all aridity and disenchantmentit is as perennial as the grass.Take kindly the counsel of the years,gracefully surrendering the things of youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden
misfortune.But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings.Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.Beyond a wholesome discipline,be gentle with yourself.You are a child of the universe,no less than the trees and the stars;you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you,no doubt the universe is unfolding
Share your digital snapshots with the community. On the last Tuesday of each month, we will print your community photos taken in Emmet or Charlevoix counties of family, fun, festivals, nature, anything!
as it should.Therefore be at peace with God,whatever you conceive Him to be,and whatever your labors and aspirations,in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul.With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams,it is still a beautiful world.Be cheerful.Strive to be happy.
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Good cents
Making the move smart Tips on transitioning to Independent Retirement Living By Metro Creative Services
W
hen 72-year-old Army veteran Ted Eickhoff was at his local VA hospital for an appointment recently, he struck up a conversation with another patient about selling his home and downsizing. As luck would have it, Eickhoff’s fellow patient lived in a local independent retirement community owned by Holiday Retirement, and raved about the benefits. Eickhoff was sold. “I couldn’t believe how much you get for the money,” said Eickhoff. “It is so nice to have everything taken care of with just one monthly payment. It covers everything I need, including amazing meals. And if you need another snack, the chefs just make it for you!” Eickhoff, a retired Command Sergeant Major, is part of a growing number of seniors who are planning for an independent living future. In fact, a recent AARP poll found that nearly 60 percent of Boomers say they are concerned about living independently, and more than 50 percent say they have begun to think about how they would pay for independent living assistance as they get older.
Klein needed assistance with transportation and didn’t want to keep bugging her son to drive her around, so she decided to move to an independent retirement living community that met her needs. “It was right for me with my fixed income, and the money covers everything,” said Klein. “I don’t pay for TV, or to have my room cleaned. I couldn’t believe what I got for the money — it was really something.” To determine what makes financial sense, seniors need to add up the true costs of managing a home versus being part of a retirement community. “Even if you no longer have a mortgage payment, you still have fluctuating monthly expenses including utilities, taxes, phone, cable and food that can add up significantly,” said Stan Brown, COO of Holiday Retirement. “For many seniors, Crunching the Numbers switching to a community that inMereen Klein, 86, started look- cludes one manageable, monthly flat ing at the costs of keeping her own fee gives them the ability to plan out apartment versus independent liv- the next 15 to 20 years and know exing when her eyesight declined. actly what they can expect to spend
and what they can afford.” For Klein, it not only made financial sense, it also gave her back some of her freedom. “I can take the community bus down to the bank or out to dinner. I can even go to the doctor and my appointments without bugging anyone for a ride,” said Klein. “I have more independence now than when I lived alone.”
Ask the Right Questions
To calculate the true costs of making the move to an independent retirement community, Brown cautions seniors to ask as many questions as possible prior to moving in, to uncover any buy-in fees, to determine if a long-term lease is required and to see if the “feel” of the community is right. “It doesn’t make financial sense to make the move if you aren’t comfortable in the new community and will want to move out within a few months,” said Brown. “It needs to not only be affordable, but a great place to live as well.” GOODlife 15
Good word
Honey don’t list by Rick Fowler
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ow, you need to know that I often get a “Honey don’t” list from my wife rather than a “Honey do” list. As in, “Honey, don’t try and put that bathroom sink in yourself, call some one who has done it before.” Or, “Honey, we do need a new patio, but why don’t we hire a contractor to do that?” Indeed, I am not adept at carpentry, electricity, plumbing or roofing. Now, it’s not to say that I can’t do some aspects of all of the above, but common sense and patience often escape me while proceeding. I know my friends when they ask me for help cringe as they say it, and also know that my main lot in life at these projects is being a gopher, as in “Go-for.” I’ve come to expect that and realize that I may never achieve a higher status in the construction and maintenance field. Most likely, “Rick, you da man!” will only be uttered after I save a box full of nails from tipping over, rather then coming up with an ingenious plan to erect an addition from scratch.
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ing crew were nearing the crucial stage of rafter construction. All the drills, including mine, had been used extensively and were almost perspiring from the constant use. Thus, as the rafter section began most of the drills were wearing down quicker and quicker. That is, all except one I had purchased weeks earlier, a rather expensive but still an “on sale” cordless kit. So I brought it along on its first real mission away from the minor putzing I had so far subjected it to. Yet my standing rose a bit after As the rafters began to take shape, being asked to assist in erecting a the drilling and ratcheting began storage shed for relatives. After six to rely more and more on this one hours of hauling, cutting, measur- new drill because of its power and ing, drilling and ratcheting, the five seemingly tireless effort. members of the weekend buildIn short, the job was successfully finished that day, due in part, I have to say, because of the uniqueness of this one piece of equipment. Plus, I was hailed as, “Da Man” by the end of the day, even though it was thanks to my purchase, rather than my expertise. Maybe now my list might read, “Honey, do buy a new tool every so often, OK?” GL
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GOODlife 17
Good sport
Twinges Hinges? in the
Charlevoix Area Community Pool has just the class for you. By Jamie Baumann • Photos by G. Randall Goss
Participants in the arthritis centered pool exercise program stretch out at the side of the pool, in Charlevoix.
S
eniors with twinges in their hinges are finding pain relief, increased mobility and fun in a class at the Charlevoix Area Community Pool. Twinges in the Hinges is a low-impact, non-weight bearing aquatic workout that will benefit those who have arthritis, or have had replacements or challenges with their joints, or who haven’t
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been very mobile. The co-educa- in the Hinges,” instructor Molly tional class incorporates low car- Tate said. “When I first started dio, muscle toning, strengthening taking the class, I was afraid of and balance work all in a fun and water, and I still am not a swimfriendly environment. Each class mer.” Tate, who has multiple scleis designed to work on flexibility rosis, started taking the class to in every joint in the body by going improve her mobility and then through about 80 different exer- moved up to become the instructor of the group. cises. “You don’t even have to know Many of the students are dehow to swim to take Twinges conditioned, recovering from
surgery, or awaiting joint replacement, or have arthritis or fibromyalgia,” Tate said. “Their physical condition improves from coming to class.” Judy Russell, who has rheumatoid arthritis, started attending the class regularly three years ago and finds significant improvement from the regular work outs. “When the pool was closed for maintenance, I really noticed a difference in my mobility. I enjoy the class and the company and I truly miss it if I don’t get there.” Class members Wes Anderson and Barb Wilson said that the
class has become a good support unassisted as a result. “It’s a really group. It’s not unusual for ev- important class for the commueryone to go to lunch after class nity for people who don’t move or or even to plan to attend social are having trouble walking,” Tate events, concerts or support each said. Twinges in the Hinges is offered other’s service projects through the class networking. at 11 a.m. on Mondays, Wednes“We keep track of each other,” days and Fridays at the Charlevoix class member Alice Ernst said. Area Community Pool, 11905 U.S. “We find out the latest news, share 31 North, Charlevoix. recipes and stories.” For more information call (231) The exercise class is self-paced, 547-0982, email info@charlevoixwith everyone working at his pool.org or view their website at or her own level. Tate tells of a www.charlevoixpool.org. The first class is free and cost 90-year-old woman who started the class walking with a walker, for subsequent classes on a drop who moved to a cane to walking in basis is $5 for in-district residents and $5.25 for out-of-district. Monthly unlimited passes are $37 in-district and $40 for nondistrict. Or there is a 10-session pass available for $45 in-district and $48 non-district. Residents of Charlevoix Township, Hayes Township or the city of Charlevoix are considered in-district. GL
Charlevoix Area Community Pool arthritis-centered exercise instructor Molly Tate.
GOODlife 19
Good buys
By Candace McPharlin Williams
Can you dig it?
Photos by G. Randall Goss
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nowflakes will fall. So put a shovel on your shopping list. Local choices include: Fairbairn & Sons in Alanson www. fairbairn.com, Meyer Ace Hardware in Petoskey, Harbor Springs and Gaylord www.acehardware.
A large plastic scoop type shovel is best for moving large quantities of snow by pushing under the snow and moving it.
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Snow:
com; or East Jordan True Val- cial. ue www.truevalue.com. All ofTalking about how to choose, fer shop in person or the online Powrozek said, “It’s worth it to pay choice to ship free to the store. a little more so it lasts you many Brad Powrozek, hardware store years.” manager at Fairbairn’s said, “We The anatomy of a shovel is certainly do prefer people to come blade and handle. Designs vary in,” explaining he thinks it simpler with tasks. Ergonomic designs to choose that way and anything keep your back healthier. not in stock can be ordered spe“They are coming out with more
A spring steel shovel with a curved blade is excellent for hard crusty snow, but is heavier than other material.
A thick plexiglass shovel with a curved blade, fiberglass handle and D-handle is very durable, but pricier than other shovels.
of them with two handles. It is easier for people to handle those,” said Powrozek. The ergonomic with a bent shaft is easier to push. A straight handle may be plastic, often called poly, or metal D-shaped handle end. “One of the more popular,” according to Powrozek, “is a scoop shovel three feet across. They use them on roofs. They have a big ergonomic style handle. Yeah, you can use it as a normal shovel. More people are buying them just for their drives and walks. Not good for heavy snow though.” Blades vary from wide and deep to small and short and are made of plastic, aluminum or steel. Lighter weight plastic’s disadvantage is snow sticks to it. Aluminum is a little heavier to lift but snow sticks to it less. “Spring steel. Those don’t have edges and are much heavier, to cut through a heavy snow crust,” explained Powrozek. Flatter blades are made to pick up snow. A curved blade is a hand plow. The intent is to be able to scoop snow and push. Large scoops are like a sled you push under the snow, give it a ride and empty by rocking it. You move more snow this way using your muscles to do what a snow blower would. A small blade shovel, as small as 16 inches, can maneuver around steps, posts or obstacles. Some have collapsing handles to help you fit one in a car. Others are designed for junior to help with snow removal, make that snow daddy and snow cave. Great entertainment in the cold weather! GL
A scoop shovel three feet across, with an ergonomic style handle is great for clearing large areas like a drive or even a roof.
LIVE WELL
Acupuncture & Massage
Sarah Lange, Dipl.Ac., Acupuncturist, Herbalist, Massage Therapist 202 Petoskey St. Petoskey, MI 49770 231-492-7600 livewellacu@yahoo.com
www.livewellpetoskey.com
NorthernMoms.com GOODlife 21
Good idea
Adventures in snowshoeing S By Metro Creative Services
nowshoeing is a wintertime activity that can be enjoyable and healthy for all ages. Enthusiasts say that snowshoeing is truly an activity that anyone can enjoy — from children to seniors. As long as a person is able to walk, he or she can also try snowshoeing. According to research provided by Snowsports Industries America, 40.8 percent of snowshoers are women, 9.4 percent of snowshoers are children (ages 7 to 11), and 44.2 percent of snowshoers are between the ages of 25 to 44. There are a number of reasons to try snowshoeing: * It is a relatively inexpensive sport to try because there is limited equipment and most of it can be rented. * Snowshoeing provides a unique perspective on the outdoors. * The activity is a great form of cardiovascular exercise, as the shoe and the snow provide an Metro added measure of resistance while walking. The sport helps burn more than 600 calories tice to master, snowshoeing only per hour and can help you requires a few steps before it is burn 45 percent more calories mastered. than walking or running at the Snowshoeing has been around same speed. for thousands of years. Archae* Snowshoeing is easily a social ologists have not been able to degroup activity. termine when the snowshoe was * It poses little risk for injury. first used, but it is known that One of the main advantages to snowshoes were used more than snowshoeing is that oftentimes 12,000 years ago. It is believed the the first time you head out you’ve first snowshoe was made from easily grasped the concept. Un- solid wood and animal skins. Nalike other sports that take prac- tives of North America relied on 22 Your LIFE UP NORTH
a form of snowshoe to traverse the landscape during hunting and other chores. Although the first snowshoe designs were made from what people could find and were primitive in nature, they set the course for more intricate designs and high-tech materials. When selecting snowshoes, beginners can choose among recreational snowshoes. Usually, these snowshoes work best on simple
terrain that doesn’t require a lot of steep climbing or descents. For avid snowshoers or those who compete, aerobic snowshoes or ones designed for hiking are more durable and may be the smart buy. Many experts advise against purchasing used snowshoes, because you won’t be sure what you’re getting. Snowshoes can be rented, but they are relatively inexpensive to buy new, ranging from $100 to $300. Snowshoes are sized according to your weight. The most common sizes are 25, 30 and 36 inches. Working with an educated retailer will ensure you get the right size shoe. Snowshoeing can be done anywhere there is snow. It doesn’t require marked trails. Just be sure to go with a partner the first time around to ensure safety, should you get stuck out in the wilderness.
Metro
GOODlife 23
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