LOCAL SENIOR CITIZENS WARM UP TO 'WII'
By Alex Davis Endeavor News

Fran Ramarge is among senior citizens at the Emporium Senior Center enjoying the bowling game on the Ninntendo Wii system. She says it helps combat her arthritis and she can play while sitting down. Alex Davis photos

Modern technology allows members of the Emporium Senior Center to pass the time while staying in shape with a new twist on "participation sports."

With the help of a large-screen TV and a Nintendo Wii gaming system, they can try their skills in bowling, tennis, baseball, boxing and golf.

A remote control device senses hand movements to control the action on the screen. Bowling is the most popular Wii option among seniors so far, said Senior Center President Ken Ostrum.

Deb Fisher of Emporium said she does better with Wii bowling than she does with the real thing.

Nancy Brown, who got acquainted with the system thanks to her grandson, said she enjoys the game.

"I really like it because I can do it sitting in my wheelchair," said Fran Ramarge of Emporium. "It also helps my fingers with arthritis."

Ostrum believes the Wii system will bring in more area seniors to the center.

"We're trying to spread the word so people know we have it," he added. "More and more of our seniors are just getting started with it."

Ostrum envisions local residents competing in tournaments, including next year's Four-County Senior Games held at Pitt-Bradford.

The Emporium center is open from 8 am to 3 pm on Mondays through Fridays.

For more information, contact the center at 486-3707.