The Peru Gazette

Margaret Karkoski’s smile is infectous

L-R Leaders Sally Kokes and Cynthia Gagnier

By John T Ryan 

Peru – If you enjoy a happy atmosphere, humor, and friendly people accompanied by healthy exercises, the Peru Community Church’s Fellowship Hall is the place to be Tuesday and Thursday mornings between 9:30 and 10:30. What’s happening? It’s the Peru Exercise Program which happens to be celebrating its 25th Anniversary this month. The group formed on April 16, 1998, and it’s been going strong ever since. Participants are wearing bright-colored tee shirts this month to celebrate the occasion. On April 25, they’ll gather for a noontime anniversary luncheon celebration at Pasquales Restaurant. 

Peru residents Priscilla Altizer and Bernie Halstead have participated since almost the program’s first day. Bernie Halstead explained. “It’s fun, you meet friends, and it’s helped me physically. It sometimes gets lonely when you live alone.” Still active at age 92, Priscilla Altizer said, “It keeps me going. My doctor told me it’s one of the reasons I’m the way I am.” Other ladies mentioned Nan Mitchell, who suffered a severe fall in her early 90s. She credited the exercise class for not breaking her wrist bone. They also mentioned class member Bev Huntley who quickly improved her walking ability after a stroke. Several other ladies said their bone density has dramatically increased. 

Experts at Cornell and Tufts Universities designed the low-impact program to strengthen the bones and joints. Exercise leaders Sally Kokes, Linda Manchester, Karen McCloud, Carol Campanella, and Cynthia Gagnier know the participants’ abilities, an essential ingredient to making it enjoyable. They also take required leadership training and are CPR certified. 

Thanks to financial assistance from the Roman Catholic Diocese of Ogdensburg, the program is offered free of charge. Cynthia Gagnier said, “We’re also very grateful to the Peru Community Church for using its Fellowship Hall. It’s a perfect place, especially with its easy access.” 

People come as far away as Jay, Au Sable Forks and Keeseville. Everyone’s welcome! The first time you participate, a leader will ask you to sign a release form and give you another form for your doctor to sign at their convenience.

Cynthia Gagnier’s husband, Steve, is the only current male participant, but he said he’d love to have company. Over the years, there have been men participants who are always welcome. If a man or lady is interested, show up before 9:30 any Tuesday or Thursday. Sign a release form, and you’re ready to make new friends, improve your health, and have fun!

Cynthia Gagnier led the class in Tai Chi