Staff writer
ttjohnso@observer-reporter.com
McMURRAY - When Virginia Kotow bowled a strike Monday morning, the crowd erupted in applause before she handed the control device back to the teen volunteer.
Kotow grabbed the bars of her walker, maneuvered back to her chair and sat down with a huge smile on her face.
At 89, Kotow is thrilled to be part of the Wii Sports for Seniors every Monday in June at Peters Township Public Library. She is one of more than a dozen senior citizens who bowl electronically on the interactive video exercise program on Nintendo's Wii.
The Wii unit is in the teen room, but with the space usually quiet early Monday mornings, seniors take over. This past Monday, the dozen or so seniors bowled and played tennis until noon with the help of teen volunteers who explain the technology.
"I like it," Kotow said as she waited for her next turn. "It's exercise for me, and it's social and competitive."
Slowed by a few medical conditions, Kotow up until the age of 86 taught country line dancing. She likes to keep active, and while she can no longer keep up physically, she's found an alternative in Wii. The boxing and baseball programs appeal to her.
Dr. William McKewan, 84, of Peters Township, had to be prompted by his son to participate, but now he loves the activity.
"It's weird," McKewan said. "It's hard to believe, but it actually works." The exercise program is a long way from the jacks he used to play as a young boy.
"It's certainly not physical exercise, because all you do is swing your arm, and I can do that opening the car door," he said, adding he enjoys the social interaction.
Helping McKewan work the remote was 14-year-old library volunteer Alex Barndollar. Seventy years separate the teacher from the student.
"Some are born knowing how to do this," McKewan said.
Kelly Rottmund is the young adult librarian who oversees the program. If enough interest is shown, she said the program will continue, with leagues forming.
"There is no need to stand or walk, as everything is arm motion," Rottmund said. "It's easier on the body. Really, it's a social event, and it's free.
Library director Pier Lee said while the Wii exercise programs are mainly for senior citizens, the term senior is on an honor basis. Check-in at the main desk and, if the Wii is available, it's free to use.
John McGee, 74, of Peters Township, comes with his wife, Rosemary. Physical afflictions limit his mobility, but he hung his cane over the back of a chair and limped to his spot in front of the large screen. His first two attempts were gutter balls. He laughed and tried again.
Rosemary McGee, 65, bowled spares and strikes.
"I never dreamed of this as a kid," John McGee said.
Andy Weaver, 16, is a library volunteer and loves helping the seniors.
"They're actually pretty good at this," Weaver said.
Wilma Hambrick, 74, said it's fun and social. She doesn't own a Wii, but she used to bowl. Her family, including six grandchildren, doesn't know she's taking part in Wii for seniors.
After bowling a solid spare, Hambrick, of Peters Township, sat down and said of her family, "I don't tell them everything, but if I did, they'd think it's great.
Dorothy Kinkus, 74, of North Strabane Township, said her daughter is "tickled pink" she's participating.
She travels to the library three times a week to practice without the pressure of an audience.
"I think getting involved and being active is better than taking medication. It's good to be among other people, and I have someplace to go," Kinkus said.
But she has no intention of buying a Wii.
"I'd rather come here as a free source. For those on a limited income and paying a fortune for medical insurance, this is a fabulous blessing," she said before standing up and bowling a spare.
Leaning on her walker, Kotow said she'll be back next Monday.
"I've met so many new friends. I'll come back all the time, so why should I buy one?"