Journey Ahead 2019 by Volume One Magazine

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aging well in the chippewa valley

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Seniors take a swing at pickleball at McDonough Park

the right age to play

Chi ppewa Va l ley sen iors a re recog n izi ng the benefits of a n active l ifestyle – a nd for ma ny of them , pickleba l l is key WORDS: TOM GIFFEY / PHOTO: ANDREA PAULSETH

bout five years ago, the City of Eau Claire was poised to remove worn-out, rarely used tennis courts at McDonough Park, a narrow strip of green space tucked away off Centre Street on the city’s near north side. However, responding to requests from a growing group of pickleball players in town, the city instead decided to convert them into pickleball courts. In retrospect, it was an excellent decision. Pickleball – a paddle sport that’s a cousin of tennis, badminton, and table tennis – has exploded in popularity nationwide in recent years, particularly among senior citizens, and the Chippewa Valley is no exception. With the fundraising help of pickleball enthusiasts, the number of courts at McDonough Park was soon doubled to 12, and advocates have even bigger plans for the park’s future. Those plans center on the concept of active aging: providing opportunities for people of all ages – in this case, the focus is seniors – to be physically and cognitively active. “Anything that gets people using their brains and their bodies is a good thing. Use it or lose it,” explained Marilyn Skrivseth, an avid pickleball player

“Anything that gets people using their brains and their bodies is a good thing. Use it or lose it.” – Marilyn Skrivseth, Eau Claire pickleball enthusiast and the driving force behind planned upgrades at McDonough. The cost of the $408,000 in park improvements will be split between a $204,000 grant to the city from the state Department of Natural Resources and $204,000 to be raised from private sources. Skrivseth is optimistic that pickleball players – the local club has more than 300 members – and other resident will be generous enough to meet the goal. “We plan to pack this park with lots of activities,” Skrivseth explained. McDonough Park is already far more active than it used to be: As Skrivseth eagerly JOURNEY AHEAD 2019

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described the park’s future on a sunny autumn afternoon, a group of women were picking up after a cardio drumming class while other seniors played pickleball on the nearby courts. The city’s master plan for the park includes an expanded plaza space around an existing pavilion which will provide room for yoga classes and other gatherings. There also will be a set of looped, measured trails accessible to all kinds of pedestrians, including those using walkers and wheelchairs; space for kubb, shuffleboard, bocce ball, bean-bag toss, and other outdoor games; possibly outdoor table tennis tables; and improved electrical service. In the long term, the park will also be connected to the city’s evergrowing recreational trail system. Skrivseth’s vision also includes more classes and educational programs for seniors; space for tai chi and other group activities; elevated garden beds: and a bluebird trail – a series of spaced nesting boxes that will appeal to both birds and bird-watchers. “We always say people are ‘too old’ or ‘too whatever’ ” to be physically active, Skrivseth said. She wants to turn these “too people” into “can-do people”

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by pointing out all the ways they can get asked rhetorically. The creation of the and remain active, which, she points pickleball courts marked a change in out, “is the cheapest health insurance approach for Eau Claire’s parks, and you’ve got.” they have led to a “critical mass” that Considering her enthusiasm for draw older people to McDonough, she the benefits of physical activity, it said. shouldn’t be any surprise to learn that Skrivesth compares seniors becomSkrivseth spent her career as an eduing more active to a one-way bridge: cator and coach: Before retiring, she Once they cross it and see the benefits, taught in UW-Eau Claire’s Department they’re unlikely to go back. “All you have of Kinesiology and was involved with to do is look around at all the people’s Blugold athletics for 22 years, including lives who have been transformed,” 16 years as head women’s tennis coach. she said of the pickleball community. Todd Chwala, the city’s “They’re making friends, community services manthey’re losing weight, ager, who oversees the city’s they’re having a blast.” parks and forestry division, Pickleball offers funchas nothing but praise for tional fitness for seniors, Skrivseth and the effort Skrivseth explains: she has put into improving Stepping and reaching McDonough Park. for the ball can help build “The first thing that skills necessary in fall came to my mind was ‘heart prevention, while the sport and soul,’ ” Chwala said improves the reaction time when asked to describe necessary to keep driving. Skrivseth’s role. “(She’s) Pickleball is easy to learn extremely knowledgeable and can be played at a relaMarilyn Skrivseth in the area of active aging. tively slow pace, but it can She’s truly passionate and comfortable also be intense, said Skrivseth, who estiworking within the structure of municimates she’s taught the sport to about 200 pal government, which is great.” people over the past two years. While the city has more than 20 While getting more active as we age neighborhood playgrounds and parks does involve risks, Skrivseth acknowlwith amenities that focus on youth, edged, it’s even riskier to stay home Chwala said that facilities appealing to and do nothing. Getting involved in a older residents are lacking. “These folks sport such as pickleball not only helps want to stay active, and in my opinion seniors improve their physical health it’s a wonderful movement,” he said. but also builds social bonds that stave Once the improvements at McDonough off the isolation many seniors experiPark are completed, Chwala hopes that ence after the loss of spouses, partners, the city can continue to partner to creand friends. ate active aging amenities elsewhere, “Some of these folks are the most too. competitive people I’ve ever seen,” she Skrivseth agrees, and hopes that said. “It’s like it’s unleashed an inner Eau Claire can catch up to other cities, child in them.” in the United States and worldwide, Donations for improvements that have led the way in creating infrato McDonough Park can be sent to structure that keeps older people active. the Eau Claire Community Parks Consider, for example, Barcelona, Association, ATTN: McDonough Park Spain, where there are 300 exercise Active Aging, P.O. Box 741, Eau Claire, parks designed for seniors. WI 54702. Learn more about the local “When you look at our parks, what pickleball scene by visiting facebook. have we done (for seniors) other than com/ChippewaValleyPickleballClub or make them spectators?” Skrivseth chippewavalleypickleballclub.com.

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THE GREEN SCENE. Future plans for McDonough Park in Eau Claire, which already is home to 12 pickleball courts, include more elements aimed at keeping people of all ages active, including trails and activity space. JOURNEY AHEAD 2019

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feed your brain with the MIND diet loca l d ieticia n advocates for memory-preservation d iet WORDS: BRIANA NOVACEK

s we age, many factors can affect how our bodies function. These factors may seem out of our control, but there are actually things one can do to boost physical and mental functioning. Pam VanKampen of Chippewa Falls has been a registered dietician for 32 years. She was raised on a farm and says she learned at an early age that “food is powerful, and food is healing.” While working in a hospital setting in the early years of her career, she noticed that many patients with other medical conditions had to be treated for malnutrition first; she decided it was necessary to prevent malnutrition in the first place. According to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, every 60 seconds, 11 hospitalized patients go undiagnosed with malnutrition. One misconception is that if someone is malnourished, it means they just aren’t eating enough. But the real issue is whether people are eating nutrient-rich foods. VanKampen is an advocate of the MIND diet, which studies have found could dramatically cut the risk of Alzheimer’s. “MIND” stands for Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay. According to livescience. com, this diet “was developed by a nutritional epidemiologist, Martha Clare Morris, at Rush University Medical Center through a study that was funded by the National Institute on Aging.” The MIND diet is a combination of two diets: the Mediterranean diet, which encourages limiting unhealthy fats and red meat while eating high amounts of fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, whole grains, and lean proteins; and the DASH diet, which encourages eating foods low in sodium to help lower blood pressure.

The MIND diet is a combination of two diets: the Mediterranean diet, which encourages limiting unhealthy fats and red meat while eating high amounts of fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, whole grains, and lean proteins; and the DASH diet, which encourages eating foods low in sodium to help lower blood pressure. The MIND diet recommends eating 10 foods on a daily basis: vegetables (especially green leafy vegetables), berries, nuts, beans, whole grains, fish, poultry, olive oil, and wine. (That last one doesn’t sound too bad, right?) Some foods that should be consumed as little as possible are: fried or fast food, red meats, cheese (bummer), butter and stick margarine, and sweets. Particular amounts of the healthy foods are also suggested, with more information available online. Before starting any new diet, it is always important to talk with your doctor. JOURNEY AHEAD 2019

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VanKampen knows that people often equate eating healthy foods with needing a lot of preparation time, but she stresses that there are many simple snacks and meals that are very nutrient-rich and easy to make. Some of her ideas include: a green salad with a pouch of tuna for protein (topped with fruit, veggies, and nuts), a baked potato in the microwave, microwavable frozen veggies, Greek yogurt, and instant rice. The MIND diet’s dramatic effect on Alzheimer’s risk can be achieved even with moderate compliance, VanKampen said. She says the MIND diet can be beneficial at any age, but age 50 is a great time to begin thinking seriously about diet and brain health. Our bodies also become less efficient at absorbing protein as we age: VanKampen’s catchy reminder is “protein throughout the day helps your muscles stay.” Dehydration can be a significant issue for the elderly as well, sometimes impacted by memory issues. VanKampen says little cues to drink, such as rubber bands on the wrist, can help, she offers another catchy phrase: “Hydrate to think straight.” As our doctors tell us, the necessary complement to a healthy diet is exercise, which can also help boost mental processing. “Little movements can make you stronger, and every step that you take is a gain,” VanKampen said. To get active, she suggests exercise classes at your local Aging and Disability Resource or senior center, or check out the SilverSneakers program that is included with many Medicare Advantage plans. If changing your diet seems overwhelming, Pam VanKampen wants you to know that “you are worth it!”

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living well with dementia ma ki ng every season of l ife cou nt when you a re experienci ng memory loss WORDS: RUSSELL MARTOCCIO

utumn in Wisconsin seems witness this change! Acceptance of to come without warning at a change is necessary for living well time when the fruitful days of with my memory loss. The acceptance midsummer are beginning of things I cannot change to wane but when it still and the courage to change seems as though food, endthe things that I can, and less plenty, and the warmth (hopefully) the wisdom to must go on forever. Then, know the difference. almost imperceptibly, a I recently watched a burst of activity is evident movie called Iron Lady in a growing urge to store about the life of Prime seeds and cones. Geese Minister Margaret Thatcher are now gathering for the which strongly resonated migration south. There is with me. While in office the sense of little time and she was described as “a that all must hurry before tigress surrounded by hamit is too late. A sombersters.” A grocer’s daughter, Russell Martoccio ness comes to the land and educated as a scientist at with it a feeling of welcome quiet and Oxford, she was strong and unyielding relief. The flaming magnificence of in a male-dominated cabinet. Later in fall is now all around me. I breath in life she was diagnosed with dementia. the fresh autumn air knowing that the While the movie highlights her strugcycle is almost complete. My heart gles with memory loss it continues to focus on her personal qualities. She and soul are grateful to be able to

Acceptance of change is necessary for living well with my memory loss. The acceptance of things I cannot change and the courage to change the things that I can, and (hopefully) the wisdom to know the difference. lived with grace, purpose, and dignity though all the while still believing she was prime minister. She grieved the death of her husband but always knew

he was still with her. Never confined to internal exile, never dwelling on her losses but focusing on what she still had ... a life captured in a moment. What this movie revealed to me is that living with memory loss is an individual adventure. I can choose to be strong, confident and determined or I can choose to live my diagnosis and turn my will and life over to the care of others. Remember that this season of life counts. It is not an afterthought. I continue to discover a new and adventurous life. Russell Martoccio writes a column each month for the Aging & Disability Resource Center of Eau Claire County’s newsletter. To read the newsletter online, visit www.co.eau-claire.wi.us/ departments/departments-a-k/agingdisability-resource-center and click on “Newsletter.”

cholesterol: know your numbers nea rly one-thi rd of Ea u Cla i re residents has hig h blood cholesterol WORDS: EAU CLAIRE CITY-COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT

eart disease accounts for 1 in 4 deaths across the country, and high cholesterol is one of the largest risk factors for heart disease. While the body can make all the cholesterol that it needs, cholesterol is found in many animal products. Eating fats can also change cholesterol levels. High cholesterol levels can lead to blocked arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. The first step in managing cholesterol? Getting tested. “High cholesterol does not usually show any symptoms or warning signs,” says Ellen Jacobs, a public health nurse with the Eau Claire City-County Health Department. “This is why it is important for adults to have their blood tested at least once every five years by a health care provider.” Almost one third of Eau Claire residents have been told by their provider that their blood cholesterol is high. Adults should schedule a blood test with their doctor if they have not had their blood tested in the past five years. Adults should also have their blood tested if they have: • High blood pressure • A body mass index greater than 30 (obese) • Diabetes • A family history of heart disease

• A history of smoking Once individuals have their cholesterol tested, it’s important to know these numbers and what is considered “good.” This test measures four important numbers: • Total cholesterol (should be less than 170 mg/dL) • Low-density lipoprotein (LDL, or “bad cholesterol,” should be less than 110 mg/dL) • High-density lipoprotein (HDL, or “good cholesterol,” should be 35 mg/dL or higher) • Triglycerides (“fats,” should be less than 150 mg/dL) There are many ways to lower or manage cholesterol levels. Doctors may prescribe medications to treat high cholesterol. However, there are many options to manage cholesterol before relying on medication: • Eating low-fat, high-fiber foods (fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, and whole grains) • Being physically active each week • Maintaining a healthy weight • Not smoking or quitting smoking For more information about the dangers of high cholesterol and how to managing your cholesterol, please visit www.cdc.gov/cholesterol.han

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time to review your Medicare plan M ed ica re open enrol l ment period beg i ns Oct. 15 WORDS: EAU CLAIRE COUNTY AGING & DISABILITY RESOURCE CENTER

edicare’s Annual Open Enrollment Period is coming soon: It begins Oct. 15 and ends Dec. 7. Be sure to add this to your fall checklist if you have a Medicare Part D plan or a Medicare Advantage Plan. Every year insurance companies can change their list of covered drugs and their pricing structure, known as the plan formulary. This means that even if you are taking the same medications, the amount you pay for your medications may change next year. The plans’ premiums, deductibles, and copays can also change each year. All Medicare beneficiaries should review their current coverage during open enrollment. Find out what your

plan’s costs and coverage will be next year and compare it with other options based on your prescription medications and other needs or preferences. You may decide you’re happy with your plan’s costs and coverage details for the coming year. In that case, you won’t need to do anything. Or you may find a plan that is better suited to your needs and your budget. Shopping around to find what’s best for you is always a good idea, but you don’t have to do it alone. Free, unbiased assistance with plan comparisons is available from Aging & Disability Resource Center benefit specialists, who will accept open enrollment appointments beginning in October. Stay tuned for appointment registration!

online Medicare plan finder gets upgrade

or the first time in a decade, the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has launched a modernized and redesigned Medicare Plan Finder at www.medicare.gov/plan-compare. The Medicare Plan Finder, the most-used tool on Medicare.gov, allows users to shop and compare Medicare Advantage and Part D plans. There are more than 60 million people with Medicare coverage. The updated Medicare Plan Finder also provides them and their caregivers with a personalized experience through a mobile-friendly and easy-toread design that will help them learn about different options and select coverage that best meets their health needs. The new Plan Finder walks users through the Medicare Advantage and Part D enrollment process from start to finish and allows people to view and compare many of the supplemental benefits that Medicare Advantage plans offer. These changes are part of the Trump administration’s eMedicare initiative – which expands and improves on current Medicare consumer service options. CMS is improving its online Medicare tools to meet the needs of a growing number of tech-savvy beneficiaries. The online tools do not replace

Medicare’s traditional customer service options. People with Medicare will continue to have access to paper copies of the “Medicare & You” handbook and be able get help over the phone using 1-800-MEDICARE. The redesigned Medicare Plan Finder will make it easier for beneficiaries to: • Compare pricing between Original Medicare, Medicare prescription drug plans, Medicare Advantage plans, and Medicare Supplement JOURNEY AHEAD 2019

Insurance (Medigap) policies; • Compare coverage options on their smartphones and tablets; • Compare up to three drug plans or three Medicare Advantage plans side-by-side; • Get plan costs and benefits, including which Medicare Advantage plans offer extra benefits; • Build a personal drug list and find Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage that best meets their needs.

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folk duo to play senior benefit

isconsin, the often misrepresented and maligned muse of many Badger-state musicians, is brought into a worthy light with the folksy – and often funny – musical stylings of Lou and Peter Berryman. This musical duo will bring their unique humor to Eau Claire on Saturday, Oct. 26, for a special benefit concert at the L.E. Phillips Senior Center, 1616 Bellinger St. The Berrymans are a folk music duo hailing from Wisconsin’s very own capital of Madison with over four decades representing their Wisconsin roots in the neo-folk scene around the United States. Recognizable most notably from their performances on Prairie Home Companion and multitudes of concerts over the course of four decades, Lou and Peter Berryman may have stopped formally touring, but they are still hard at work keeping smiles on the faces of fans and themselves alike. This inclusive event will include a silent auction beginning at 6:30pm and the duo’s revered musical stylings starting at 7pm. Barring any extended solos or encores, the show will conclude at 9:30pm. While a combination of accordion and guitar may not be everyone’s first thought when it comes to music that represents Wisconsin, Lou and Peter are sure to have doubters reevaluating that sentiment in no time. Tickets are available online at brownpapertickets.com for $18 (plus service fee) or $20 at the door. –Nate Cooksey

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listings & resources SENIOR EVENTS & CLASSES SAVVY SENIORS SERIES Oct. 2, 4-5pm • The Classic at Hillcrest Greens, 2455 Sawgrass Pl, Altoona • FREE • All Ages • (715) 839-0200 • deanmathwig@theclassichg.com • theclassichg. com As part of The Classic’s ongoing Savvy Seniors Series program, Shawna Lee, Doctor of Audiology with Prevea Health will present “Better Hearing, Better Living.” EAU CLAIRE AREA MEMORY CAFÉ Second Tuesday until Feb. 11 2020, 9:30-11:30am; Fourth Monday until Feb. 24 2020, 1:30-3:30pm • , • FREE • (715) 839-4750 • lisa.wells@co.eauclaire.wi.us • adrcevents.org The café offers a comfortable way for you and your care partner to have fun and socialize with others who have Mild Cognitive Impairment, early to moderate Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia, and those who worry about memory problems. MEDICARE 101: AN EDUCATIONAL EVENT Second Tuesday until Dec. 31, 10-11am; Second Tuesday until Dec. 31, 5:30-6:30pm • Insurance Associates, 3413 Golf Road, Eau Claire • FREE • All Ages • (715) 832-1772 • contactus@ insassoc.net • insuranceassociatesofeauclaire. com Medicare 101 provides a foundational understanding of the four parts of Medicare; Part A Hospital, Part B Medical, Part C Medicare Advantage and Part D Prescription Drug. Information will be provided on initial enrollment as well as additional enrollment periods pertaining to Part C options. YOUNG AT HEART NEW OPTIMISTIC SINGLE SENIORS CLUB Second, Fourth Monday, 5-7pm • Pine Meadow Golf Club, 4324 Fairfax Park Dr., Eau Claire • 50+ • youngatheartsingleseniors@gmail.com • facebook.com/youngatheart2018 Young at Heart is a local single seniors club for the separated, divorced, and widowed. It’s a chance to get out and enjoy social gatherings. Email or call for more information. Second and Fourth Mondays the group meets for a burger night out.

HIKING & BIKING TRAILS 400 STATE TRAIL 22 MILES E13660 State Highway 33, Reedsburg • dnr.wi.gov/topic/parks/ name/400/ The 400 State Trail is located be-

tween Reedsburg and Elroy with 5 communities conveniently spaced along the trail to provide small town hospitality. Part of the 101-mile State Trail System. A mostly level trail. Trail is used for bicycling, walking, and snowmobiling. There is also a 7-mile horse trail parallel to the bike trail between Wonewoc and LaValle. BEAVER CREEK RESERVE S1 County Road K, Fall Creek • (715) 877-2212 • beavercreekreserve. org Moderate difficulty. There are several trail loop options. Scenic, winding trails on two separate sections of the reserve, offer views of two creeks and the Eau Claire River. A local favorite $3 for adults, $1 for children (15 and under), free for members of Beaver Creek.

of St. Joseph’s Hospital) and then on Beach Drive. There is a small parking lot near the trailhead. Parking also available near the Chippewa River bridge on 178. CHIPPEWA RIVER STATE TRAIL • fcrstwi.com This former railroad corridor parallels the Chippewa River and including river bottoms, prairies, sandstone bluffs, wetlands, and more. Trailruns from Phoenix Park in Eau Claire to Caryville. Joins the Red Cedar Trail in the Dunnville Bottoms near the confluence of the Red Cedar and Chippewa rivers. CITY WELLS TRAIL Eau Claire • Difficulty: Easy. Description: Three-mile loop trail begins near the city wells and heads into the woods. Directions: From the North Crossing (Hwy 312) head north on Riverview Drive. Park in the dirt lot near the wells buildings off Riverview Drive.

BIG FALLS COUNTY PARK 11998 N 110th Ave, Chippewa Falls • (715) 839-4783 • co.eau-claire. wi.us Located in the town of Seymour, the trails at Big Falls cut through mixed coniferous/ hardwood forest on either side of County Highways Q and K.

DEER FLY TRAIL • (715) 726-7920 • co.chippewa. wi.us A hiking trail located in the County Forest in Northern Chippewa County. From the north, the trail entrance is located two miles west of junction of County Rd. M And E.

BJORNSEN RECREATION CENTER TRAIL Knapp • Easy difficulty. Trail loop options through woods with creeks and several footbridges as well. From I-94 take the Hwy Q exit and drive north to 700 Avenue. Turn right and head to 160th Street. Look for signs. You might have to park at the gate and walk to the center. Otherwise, there is ample parking at the center.

DUNCAN CREEK PARKWAY TRAIL Chippewa Falls • (715) 723-0331 • chippewacounty.com 5 miles - This trail winds through the city of Chippewa Falls. Trail begins at the parking lot off 225th Avenue. Ideal for biking, hiking, and inline skating. Connects to Old Abe State Trail. EAU CLAIRE RIVER ROUTE 1.5 miles - Trail goes from downtown Eau Claire to the East Side Hill • Start at the paved trailhead hidden across from the L.E. Phillips Memorial Library’s

BUFFALO RIVER STATE PARK TRAIL • dnr. wi.gov 36 miles - This is a multi-purpose trail that parallels Hwy 10 passing through the communities of Mondovi, Eleva, Strum, Osseo and Fairchild connecting to Eau Claire County operated ATV trails. CADOTT SCHOOL FOREST Cadott • Several loops go through woods past two creeks and a covered bridge as well. From Hwy 29, take the Cty Rd X exit and drive to Cty Rd XX. Head north to 80th Street. Head east for 1 ½ miles and look for a gravel dead-end road. You might have to park at the gate and walk into the educational building area. Otherwise, there is parking at the building. CHIPPEWA COUNTY RIVERVIEW RESERVE TRAIL Chippewa Falls • Easy difficulty. Trails go through woods and meadows. Some pass by small ponds as well as Lake Wissota. Take Hwy 178 north to Wissota Green Blvd (east

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underground parking entrance. The trail brings you across to the north side of the river on an old railroad trestle S bridge that offers spectacular views of the quarter-mile long Banbury Place industrial complex and of course, the valley. The trails in Phoenix Park and Boyd Park now connect and are ready for downtown cyclists. EVERGREEN SKI TRAIL Coon Fork Lake County Park, E 25501 County Road CF, Augusta • (715) 839-4738 • Easy to moderate difficulty. 2.2 miles of trail loops are open for hikers in the spring, summer, and fall. The westernmost trail follows Coon Fork Creek. $3 fee. Located 5 miles north of Augusta on Cty Rd CF (across the road from Coon Forks County Park). Park at a small dirt lot. FAIRFAX PARK - TRAIL 4200 Fairfax St., Eau Claire • (715) 839-1680 • Difficulty: Easy. Small woods trail that doubles as ski trail goes into small prairie area past a few ponds and re-enters woods. Directions: Access Fairfax Park Drive from either Golf Road and park in the Fairfax Pool lot, or go down Fairfax Street and park near the ball fields south of South Middle School. GEUTTINGER WOODS + WILDLIFE AREA Eau Claire • Easy difficulty. Semi-groomed trails wander through dense woodland. Head south from Eau Claire on Hwy 37. Look for a sign on the left shortly after passing Cty Rd HH. Short drive up a hill takes you to a small parking lot and trailhead. HICKORY RIDGE TRAIL • (866) 723-0331 • 9 miles - This trail winds through the quiet and scenic oak and aspen forest. It consists of three chal-

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lenging loops. Located in northern Chippewa County in the County Forest - the trail begins in a parking lot off of 225th Ave. HOFFMAN HILLS STATE RECREATION AREA TRAILS 730th Ave., Colfax • (715) 232-1242 • travelwisconsin.com Several different trail options from easy to moderate to difficult. Very hilly in the woods section of the park, most leading to a 60-foot tower with a wonderful view of the area and worth the climb. The grass-prairie and wetlands section of the park is easy and passes by ponds hidden from view of most of the trail. Directions available on website. IRVINE PARK TRAIL Bridgewater Ave., Chippewa Falls • (715) 723-0051 • chippewafalls-wi. gov Easy difficulty. Woods trails above the zoo area double as ski trails. Loop back down and visit the zoo afterwards. Trails also go past Glen Loch Lake. Trails can also be accessed from small parking lot on Cty Rd S or on the parking lot above the zoo off Erma-Tinger Drive. KEMPER’S WOODS Chippewa Falls • A few trail loops go through a small woods surrounded by farmland. From Business 29, drive south on Chippewa Crossing Blvd and turn left on Stilson (50th Ave) past the dog park, over Hwy 29, and look for a small loop-shaped parking lot on the right side of the road. LAFAYETTE TOWN HALL TRAIL Lafayette • A short loop goes through woods. The trail overlooks Paint Creek. From Cty Road X south of Lake Wissota, turn south on 197th Street to the Lafayette Town Hall. Park near the food stand at the ball fields and walk through the brush site area to find the somewhat-hidden trailhead. LAKE MENOMIN PARK TRAIL Menomonie • Easy difficulty. Walk through the woods, emerge

next to Lake Menomin, and then through meadow before re-entering woods. From I-94 head south on Cty Rd B, turn right at 3M Drive, turn left at Stokke Parkway, turn right at Red Cedar Street/Domain Drive.

boardwalk. Fun stroll for families with little kids. From I-94 head south on North Broadway Street, turn left on Pine Avenue E to Game Park Rd. Plenty of parking spaces on paved lot. NORTHWEST COMMUNITY PARK TRAIL 650 Van Es Parkway, Eau Claire • Moderate difficulty. Several loop trail options double as mountain bike and ski trails. Some are narrow and steep. From the North Crossing (Hwy 312) head north on Jeffers and turn right away on E. Prairie Lane to Arrowhead Drive to Van Es Parkway. Drive to the end of the street to the small parking lot.

LAKE WISSOTA STATE PARK 18127 County Hwy 0, Chippewa Falls • (715) 382-4574 • dnr. wi.gov Several trail options go through woods, meadows, lowlands, marshes, and Lake Wissota’s shoreline. Many double as ski trails. Bikes are permitted on all but 3 trails. One-mile Beaver Meadow nature trail loop for families with small children. Scenic lake trail is also a highlight. Daily and annual state park vehicle admission passes vary in price. Located on the northeast section of Lake Wissota. LEVIS MOUND TRAIL Neilsville • (715) 743-5140 • levismound.com The Levis Mound and Trow Mound rec trail in Southern Clark County features 25 miles of mountain bike singletrack trails offering riders a variety of terrain, from easy meandering wooded singletrack to technical pitches and outstanding views of the surrounding 133,000 acre county forest.

OLD ABE TRAIL 711 North Bridge Street, Chippewa Falls • (715) 726-7920 • dnr.wi.gov Easy difficulty. Popular bike trail goes from Chippewa Falls to Cornell. One scenic spot is just north of Jim Falls where the trail follows the Chippewa River on one side and small fields and ponds (some full of turtles) on the other. Head north of Chippewa Falls on Hwy 178 to the Jim Falls exit. In town, there is a trailhead sign with a parking lot. Walk north through town before getting to the scenic spots. OTTER CREEK TRAIL 2333 Hillcrest Pkwy, Altoona • 3 miles - Located next to the Hillcrest Golf Course.

LOWES CREEK COUNTY PARK TRAIL S. Lowes Creek Rd., Eau Claire • (715) 839-4738 • co.eau-claire. wi.us Easy to moderate difficulty. Most trails double as mountain bike or ski trails. One short trail is devoted to hiking only. Nice sights of Lowes Creek. Requires $3 daily pass with seasonal passes available. Drive south of Eau Claire and I-94 on Lowes Creek Road. Park entrance will be on the left. Or drive south of Eau Claire and I-94 on 93. Turn right on Lorch Avenue and left on Fairview Drive. Ample parking at both entrances.

PINEHURST PARK - TRAILS 3523 Delbert Road, Eau Claire • eauclairewi.gov Moderate difficulty. Wooded trails along the far side of the sledding hill double as mountain bike trails. Trails end at the top of the sledding hill. From Hwy 53, turn right on Eddy Lane to Darryl Lane to Dale Road. From the parking lot, look for the trailhead on the left facing the hill.

MENOMONIE LIONS GAME PARK TRAILS Menomonie • Easy difficulty. Very short trail starts near animal exhibits and features a little

PUTNAM TRAIL Located at the end of Putnam Drive, UWEC Lower Campus, Eau Claire • uwec.edu Difficulty: Easy. Dirt road goes

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through a wooded area that follows Little Niagara Creek. Deer and wild turkeys often seen. Marshy woods with a beautiful canopy of branches and leaves. From campus heading west, the trail follows the Chippewa River. RED CEDAR STATE TRAIL 921 Brickyard Road, Menomonie • dnr.wi.gov Easy difficulty. Small bluffs with a waterfall will be on one side and the Red Cedar River on the other side. Bald eagles frequently sighted. Going other direction from Dunnville takes you through the Dunnville State Wildlife Area across a trestle near the confluence of the Chippewa River and the Red Cedar River. This meets up with the Chippewa River Trail. STAGE COACH BICYCLE ROUTE Trailhead located in Augusta just off Hwy 12/27 on Stone St. • (715) 831-2345 • info@visiteauclaire.com • travelwisconsin.com 21 miles - Approximately 21 miles roundtrip with alternate loops. Mostly easy but a few steep hills. It’s a scenic route that follows along a lightly traveled road and is perfect for a family bicycle outing. Available year round and no pass is required. TOWER RIDGE RECREATION AREA TRAIL 1230 S 82nd Ave, Eau Claire • (715) 839-4783 • co.eauclaire.wi.us Easy to Moderate difficulty. Wide trails double as ski and horseback riding trails. Some trails are very hilly. Offers spectacular views of the Eau Claire River Valley. $3 daily pass/seasonal. Drive east from Eau Claire on Cty Rd Q and then south on L. Go past first parking lot (for disc golf players) to the second lot (road to it on left side of L). TRAIL FROM BOYD PARK TO ARCHERY PARK Eau Claire • Difficulty: Moderate. This small short trail winds along a small bluff bordering Eau Claire’s east side neighborhood. Nice scenic spots where you look straight down to the Eau

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Claire River. Trail starts in a meadow. It is rocky underfoot in some sections. Directions: From downtown Eau Claire or from Hastings Way, take Main Street and turn north on Summer Street. Park near the pavilion in Boyd Park. WILDWOOD TRAIL 200 Main St., Woodville • (715) 531-1923, 715-684-2874 • co.saint-croix.wi.us The Wildwood Trail is a seven-mile off-road hiking, biking and snowmobiling trail on a former railroad right-of-way, which runs from the Village of Woodville south to the St. Croix/Pierce County line, through the Town of Eau Galle.

SENIOR CENTERS AUGUSTA SENIOR AND COMMUNITY CENTER 616 West Washington St., Augusta • (715) 286-2953 • Find it on Facebook The Augusta Senior & Community stands at the former site of the original Augusta High School. This multi-purpose community centers offers arts & crafts classes, gatherings, senior lunches, and more. CHIPPEWA COUNTY AGING AND DISABILITY RESOURCE CENTER 711 N. Bridge St., Rm. 118, Chippewa Falls • (715) 726-7777 • ADRC@ co.chippewa.wi.us • co.chippewa.wi.us This resource center offers the public a single entry point for information and assistance on issues affecting older people, and people with disabilities regardless of their income. Welcoming and convenient places for you and your family to get information, advice, and access to a wide variety of wellness services. CHIPPEWA FALLS AREA SENIOR CENTER 1000 E. Grand Avenue, Chippewa Falls • (715) 720-1666 • chippewafallsseniorcenter.com Provides a central location where senior citizens can enhance their independence through services and programs that promote physical, mental, and social well-being. Hosts senior dining meals, day trips, activities like arts & crafts, games, and wellness classes, and has an on-site thrift store. DUNN COUNTY AGING & DISABILITY RESOURCE CENTER 3001 US Highway 12 East Suite 160, Menomonie • (715) 232-4006 • adrc@co.dunn. wi.us • co.dunn.wi.us/ADRC The ADRC of Dunn County is the access point for seniors, adults with disabilities, their families and caregivers to receive assistance, education, and support while at all times respecting the rights, dignity and preference of the individual. It provides transportation, nutrition, and caregiving services as well as long-term care.

L.E. PHILLIPS SENIOR CENTER 1616 Bellinger St., Eau Claire • (715) 839-4909 • lephillipsseniorcenter.com The L.E. Phillips Senior Center provides a place for Senior Citizens, 55 and better who reside in the City or County of Eau Claire to maintain independence, receive services and develop skills which enhance the emotional, physical and social quality of their lives. Regularly hosts day trips, weekend escapes, exercise classes, community meals, electronics and Internet lessons, knitting classes, and more.

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BANFIELD CHARITABLE TRUST - SENIOR PET SUPPORT • (715) 232-4006 • If you are 60+ and need help with expenses for your pet, you may be eligible for financial support. Can cover pet food, pet supplies, vet care, grooming, temporary boarding expenses, and more. C & P PERSONAL CHEFFING Eau Claire • (715) 514-8364 • personalchefgolden@gmail.com • facebook.com/Personalchefgolden Offers restaurant quality meals prepared in the comfort of your home. Ideal for at-home events like baby showers, anniversaries, holidays, birthdays, graduations, as well as for people who can no longer cook at home. MEALS ON WHEELS • Eau Claire County: (715) 839-4886 // Dunn County: (715) 232-4006 // Chippewa County: (715) 738-2590 Meals on Wheels provides delivered meals to homebound seniors or eligible adults living with a disability. More than just a meal, this services also provides a daily check-in on seniors to ensure safety and health. Each county ADRC branch manages this services, and you can call, go online, or e-mail for more information about eligibility. OPEN FITNESS CENTER 1616 Bellinger St., Eau Claire • (715) 839-4909 • lephillipsseniorcenter. com The Open Fitness Center includes a circuit of stations that provide opportunities for a full body workout to improve strength, flexibility, balance, and cardiovascular endurance. Several types of fitness equipment that are easy to use for all ages. SENIOR DINING CONGREGATE MEALS • Check out the full schedule and locations a co.eau-claire. wi.us/departments/departments-a-k/aging-disability-resource-center Food, fun and fellowship are what Senior Dining is all about. Enjoy a nutritious meal at a warm, friendly Senior Dining Site in the company of friends. Volunteer, meet people and partake in activities and educational opportunities. The actual cost of each meal costs $8-9, but the suggested donation is only $3.50 and is entirely voluntary. SENIOR FITNESS CLASSES 1616 Bellinger St., Eau Claire • (715) 839-4909 • lephillipsseniorcenter. com Get involved with a wide array of fitness class options every month at the L.E. Phillips Senior Center. Offers circuit classes, strength classes, morning blasts, step classes, yoga, chair yoga, core, pilates, zumba, and much more multiple days a week. Classes require a punch card that can be purchased at the center.

EAU CLAIRE COUNTY AGING AND DISABILITY RESOURCE CENTER 721 Oxford Ave #1130, Eau Claire • (715) 839-4735 • adrc@co.eau-claire. wi.us • co.eau-claire.wi.us The ADRC helps people age 60+ and adults with disabilities secure needed services or benefits, live with dignity and security and achieve maximum independence and quality of life. They promote healthy living and preventative health care and offer support services and events for seniors, adults with disabilities, and caregivers.

SHIRLEY DOANE SENIOR CENTER 1412 6th St. E, Menomonie • (715) 235-0954 • menomonieseniorcenter.org The mission of the Shirley Doane Senior Center is to help Menomonie area seniors engage in meaningful community activities. To help promote continued growth and development, self-respect, self-confidence, and usefulness; by encouraging your participation in contemporary life; and by stimulating a dynamic public interest in the aging population and recognition of its potential.

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WESTERN DAIRYLAND’S RSVP VOLUNTEER PROGRAM Eau Claire • (715) 985-2391 ext. 1205 or ext. ext. 1232 • cheryl.padula@wdeoc.org, kristin.sosalla@wdeoc.org • westerndairyland.org/ rsvp.phtml The Retired & Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) connects individuals age 55 or older with meaningful volunteer opportunities in their communities. Volunteers are matched with volunteer opportunities that best reflect their interests, available time, and preferences. Volunteer sites are varied and may include tutoring or mentoring children.

PHYSICAL THERAPY B NATURAL 2934 London Rd., Eau Claire • (715) 836-7021 • bnaturalwi.com Dr. Amy Emch practices immuno-therapy and offers services such as health & nutrition consultations, reflexology, chi machine therapy, and infra red therapy. CHIPPEWA MANOR 222 Chapman Rd., Chippewa Falls • (715) 723-4437 • chippewamanor. com Offers residential and outpatient living services, skilled nursing, rehabilitation therapy, and more. CHIROELITE CHIROPRACTIC + REHAB 1219 10th St. W, Altoona • (715) 832-9725 • chiro-elite. com An affordable membership style chiropractic clinic located in Altoona specializing in hands-on spinal adjustments, activator and muscle rehabilitation. CORNERSTONE PHYSICAL THERAPY 224 North Bridge St., Suite B, Chippewa Falls • (715) 723-4451 • cornerstonephysicaltherapy.net Physical therapy and mas-

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sage services, as well as women’s health, aquatic therapy, sports massage, myofascial release, weight management, and orthopedic injury recovery. DOVE HEALTHCARE • dovehealthcare.com Receive innovative physical, occupational, speech, and aquatic therapy after surgery, illness, or injury. Your therapy program is personalized, so you can recover as quickly as possible and return home. Choose from several convenient locations. EARTH AND SKY BODYWORKS • (608) 630-0664 • chris@earthandskybodyworks.com • earthandskybodyworks.com A holistic health business that is also dedicated to environmental issues, because environmental health is holistic health. Certified Advanced Rolfer, Licensed Asian bodywork therapist, and tai chi instructor, specializing in depth work for long-term change. ETI WOUND HEALING CENTER 1101 W Clairemont Ave, Eau Claire • (715) 471-0954 • support@ etiwoundhealingcenter.com • etiwoundhealingcenter.com ETI Wound Healing Center is a comprehensive outpatient wound management clinic specializing in avoidance of amputations and skin grafts. They treat all wounds, particularly those that are difficult to heal. MCMAHON CHIROPRACTIC AND PHYSICAL THERAPY 3004 Golf Rd # 100, Eau Claire • (715) 834-4516 • mcmahonchiroandpt.com Specializing in chiropractic and physical therapy work. NORTHWOODS THERAPY 1200 N. 10th St. W, Altoona • 715-8398-9266 // 757 Lakeland Dr., Chippewa Falls • 715-723-5060 • pwnorthwoods@ yahoo.com • northwoodstherapy.com In business or over 30 years, Northwoods Therapy is owned and operated by local physical therapists specializing in sports and orthopedic rehabilitation. OPTIMA HEALTH & VITALITY CENTER 3321 Gold Road, Ste. A, Eau Claire • (715) 832-1953 • optimahvc.com A chiropractic practice that also offers nutritional counseling, acupuncture, massage, and naturopathic treatment. OPTIMUM THERAPIES, LLC - EAU CLAIRE 517 E. Clairemont Ave., Eau Claire • (715) 855-0408 // 1309 Stout Rd., Menomonie • (715) 233-6320 • optimumtherapies.com Offering deep tissue, trigger point release, myofascial release, neuromuscular, sports, Swedish, and hot stone massage and physical therapy.

YOGA, PILATES, AND MORE THE CENTER 3701 E. Clairemont Ave., Eau Claire • (715) 529-3344 • info@thecenterec.com • thecenterec.com The Center is dedicated to supporting people in wholeness of body, mind and spirit, regardless of religious orientation. From Ayurveda to Zumba, The Center has a wide variety of offerings. Opportunities include yoga, meditation, Reiki, art, pottery, spiritual direction and more. CHIPPEWA VALLEY FAMILY YMCA 611 Jefferson Ave., Chippewa Falls • (715) 723-2201 • lynnb@ chippewaymca.com • chippewaymca.com Free weights and machines. Basketball, volleyball, racquetball, indoor track, and pool. Classes on strength/endurance, body sculpting, cardio, yoga, pilates, dance, indoor cycling, swimming, gymnastics, and martial arts. First aid, lifeguard, and babysitting training. Massage, spa/ sauna, kids’ events and classes, and childcare. DRAGONFLY DANCE AND WELLNESS 308 North Barstow, Eau Claire • mydragonflydanceandwellness@gmail.com • dragonflydanceandwellness.com Dragonfly Dance and Wellness excited to offer Tribal Style Belly dance, Yoga, Zumba, BaredFeet, Nutrition, Personal training, Hooping and more. Find it on Facebook as well.

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GOLD’S GYM 3225 Lorch Ave., Eau Claire • (715) 552-4570 • goldsgym.com/eauclairewi/ Personal training, free weights, and machines. Basketball, volleyball, cardio cinema, and pool. Classes in strength/endurance, cardio, body sculpting, pilates, yoga, circuit, spinning, and dance. Nutritional counseling, beverage bar, tanning, pro shop, kids’ services, and spa/sauna. HAPPY APPLE THERAPY + YOGA + MASSAGE 436 Main Street E, Menomonie • happyappletherapy.com Happy Apple offers an integrative therapy method, focused on healing with personalized counseling. They offer yoga with beginner, vinyasa, meditation, alignment, stretch, and breathing focuses. They also offer an integrative massage to lower blood pressure and calm fatigued muscles. HIGHLAND FITNESS CENTER - EASTRIDGE CENTER 2221 Eastridge Center, Eau Claire • (715) 833-2100 • highlandfitness.com EastRidge offers four group fitness studios, over 60 cardiovascular machines, free weights, and multiple strength circuits, Results Weight Loss Counseling, Yoga classes, Boot Camp large group classes, small group classes, and one-on-one training. LATITUDE 44 YOGA STUDIO 313 E. Madison St., Eau Claire • (715) 828-3936 • Amy@Latitude44Yoga.com • latitude44yoga.com Latitude 44 Yoga Studio is the Chippewa Valley’s hot yoga studio. We offer a full class schedule seven days per week, featuring Hot Power Yoga, Beginner Yoga, Prenatal Yoga, Kids Yoga, Workshops, and fun events. MOONRISE AERIALS STUDIO Inside Dancers Studio, 800 Wisconsin St. (Banbury Place, Building 13 - Room 122), Eau Claire • moonriseaerials. com Moonrise Aerials offers feminine empowerment through aerial yoga, circus fitness, and flow arts. Co-owners Michelle Anthony and Rachel Duffenbach invite you to explore your creativity, to express yourself through movement. Their staff will give you the tools, space, and inspiration to guide you on this path of self expression. NEW DAY YOGA & WELLNESS 2829 County Hwy I (Above the Goat Coffee House at Wissota Health), Chippewa Falls • (715) 861-5545 • linda@newdayyogawellness.com • newdayyogawellness. com Highly trained and certified. Fully equipped studio. Fitness focused Hatha yoga for strength and flexibility. Experience deep stretches and amazing inversions on “The Great Yoga Wall” exclusive to New Day. Private sessions available. Beginners welcome. Wide variety of classes, all levels. Specialized classes such as Yoga for the Spine, Restorative Yoga for Cancer Care, Yoga for MS. PRAJNA PILATES 705 S. Barstow Street, Eau Claire • 715-577-5502 • baemmert.com PRAJNA offers a variety of group classes and individual sessions to assist participants on their wellness journey. Located in downtown Eau Claire, Wisconsin, this studio offers a warm and inviting atmosphere to welcome individuals interested in yoga, pilates, thai yoga and general wellness. PURE FITNESS 4 YOU 1423 South Hastings Way, Eau Claire • (715) 456-1182 • purefitness4you@ gmail.com • purefitness4you.com Pure Fitness 4 You offers a mixture of classes for all fitness levels and strives at making everyone feel welcome and at home. Pure Fitness 4 You aims to help you reach any of your fitness goals. Services offered include PiYo, pound, barre, prenatal barre, defined abs, WERQ, yoga, private sessions, and more. SKY YOGA 415½ S. Barstow St., Eau Claire • skyyoga.yoga Sky Yoga offers yoga, barre, flexibility, and aerial silks classes for people of all ages and skill levels. Single-class and membership pricing is available. Has an on-site shower room, children’s studios, and other amenities not often found at yoga studios.

EARTH AND SKY BODYWORKS • (608) 630-0664 • chris@earthandskybodyworks.com • earthandskybodyworks.com A holistic health business that is also dedicated to environmental issues, because environmental health is holistic health. Certified Advanced Rolfer, Licensed Asian bodywork therapist, and tai chi instructor, specializing in depth work for long-term change.

THE YOGA CENTER OF EAU CLAIRE 2524 Golf Rd, 2F, Eau Claire • (715) 830-0321 • yoga@ yogacenterec.com • yogacenterec.com The Yoga Center of Eau Claire offers several classes tailored to fit individual needs. Teaches beginning, intermediate & advanced level classes, as well as classes that focus on core strengthening, adaptive, Buddha Body, & Yoga for Parkinson’s. Offers workshops, private lessons, & special events.

FLOATING BLISS YOGA • floatingblissyoga. com Floating Bliss SUP Yoga is a mobile yoga studio that hosts stand-up paddle board yoga. This type of approach to yoga offers a whole new perspective to being fully present in the moment, while enjoying the splendor of floating on water. Can be hired to host private yoga parties.

THE YOGA ROOM 2839 Mall Dr., Eau Claire • theyogaroomec@gmail.com • theyogaroomec. com Offers a wide variety of yoga classes with options for runners, seniors, beginners, experts, flow classes, restorative yoga, yin, vinyasa, hatha, mommy & me classes, and some of their own unique blended classes.

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