AnnArbor.com - @mlive-health-a2

A day in the life: Helping our youngest and most vulnerable residents

Fri, 3 May, 2013 5 a.m.

Christina Katka, MIHP Supervisor for Washtenaw County Public Health

When I tell people that I work for the Maternal Infant Health Program (MIHP), they always ask, “What do you do?” That is a very good question, because what I do varies from day to day, hour by hour sometimes.

Here is just a snapshot of the day in the life of a MIHP home visitor:

First home visit: Being greeted by the smiling face of an 8-month-old infant — what a great way to start your day of work! You would never know it at first glance, but this little one was born prematurely and is recovering from physical abuse by one of his primary caregivers. He has been placed with relatives. So, my job today is to reassure his current caregiver, that despite his early start and traumatic first couple months of life, he is thriving and progressing developmentally due to her consistency, stimulation and excellent care of him.

Second home visit: A first time single mother who recently moved into her own apartment after living in a shelter. She recently obtained a job and enrolled her son in daycare. However, she is not satisfied with the quality of care her son is receiving from his current daycare provider. She states that she feels “stuck”. This is all new: living on her own, being a mom, working, finding daycare. She is doing her best to try to make ends meet and provide for her infant son, but this is hard work and comes with difficult choices sometimes.

I am reminded of my own transition into motherhood and how overwhelming it was to balance the needs of my baby with work…and I had more resources available to me. So my job today is to validate her as a mother and her struggle to make these difficult choices. To praise her for looking out for her son’s best interest and refer her to community resources, like Child Care Network, who can assist her in finding a more appropriate provider for her son.

Third home visit: Sometimes the neighborhoods where we do home visits can carry safety concerns. I personally have never had any problems, but I am also very mindful of the environment I am in. Today I’m visiting a mother who is recovering from physical injuries and emotional scars, after she was assaulted in her own neighborhood.

I am meeting her at a different location today, and she is unsure how she will be able to go back into that neighborhood to collect her belongings. Her fear is very real. So, today I am a sympathetic listening ear, a caring voice and a problem solver as I help her try to move forward as we explore natural supports and community resources including Housing Access of Washtenaw County and local shelters in an effort to assist her in finding a safer living environment for herself and her family.

Fourth home visit: My initial visit with a pregnant woman who has a chronic illness. She is just in her first trimester, but she is already carrying worries about potential bed rest, which occurred during her last pregnancy. We discuss the importance of regular prenatal care.

However, she has bigger immediate worries. She was recently laid off from her job and is now wondering how she is going to keep a roof over her head and food on the table for her family. So, today I am an educator on community resources, like DHS food and cash assistance and WIC, which might help her family during this difficult time.

Fifth home visit: My final visit of the day, and it will be a tricky one. I’m trying to engage a family who is somewhat resistant to participating in MIHP. I first met this mother following the delivery of her baby and, at that time, she was tearful and overwhelmed with her responsibilities of being a single parent of now four children.

Today, she has adjusted to this role and I admit, appears a little apathetic to my visit, until I ask her if we can complete a developmental screening with her baby. As we go through the screening together, the mother begins to smile and is engaged and animated. We both begin to celebrate this little one’s developmental accomplishments and the visit ends with the mother giving her baby a joyful kiss on the cheek. Ah…success!

So, when I am asked, “What do I do?” there really isn’t just one answer. Today I was a reassuring observer, a validating voice, a compassionate listener, a problem solver, an educator and a cheerleader. Let’s see what tomorrow brings…

The Maternal Infant Health Program (MIHP) is a home visiting program for all Medicaid-eligible pregnant women and infants up to age one. The overall goal of the program is to provide support to promote healthy pregnancies, positive birth outcomes and healthy infants. An Evaluation Summary Report was recently released showing the positive effects the MIHP program can have on mothers, infants and families.

In 2012, two full-time nurses, 2.5 full-time social workers and one part-time dietitian made 1,927 home visits to pregnant women and infants in Washtenaw County. Washtenaw County Public Health's MIHP program can be reached at 734-544-9749.

Christina Katka is the Supervisor of the Maternal Infant Health Program at Washtenaw County Public Health. She can be reached at katkac@ewashtenaw.org.

Restaurant Inspections for Washtenaw County in March 2013

Wed, 24 Apr, 2013 10:30 a.m.

The Washtenaw County Public Health Department's Environmental Health Division is responsible for inspecting all food service establishment operations in Washtenaw County. These food service establishments are regulated under the State of Michigan's Food Law and Michigan Modified Food Code.

What do the violations in the reports mean?
The laws governing food service changed significantly on October 1, 2012. The most noticeable change was in the terminology used for violations in restaurant inspections. Previously, violations were Critical or Non-Critical, but now they are categorized as Priority, Priority Foundation or Core.

Priority violations are the most serious. Correcting these eliminates or reduces a problem directly associated with foodborne illness. Examples include improper food temperatures and lack of hand washing. Priority violations were previously called Critical violations.

Priority Foundation violations are problems that can lead to a Priority violation. Correcting these problems may keep Priority violations from occurring. Examples include not having an appropriate food thermometer, not having sanitizer test strips and not having soap or paper towel at a hand sink. The Priority Foundation category is made up of violations that were previously called Critical or Non-Critical Violations.

Core violations are related to general sanitation and facility maintenance. Examples include dirty floors and improper facility lighting. Core violations were previously called Non-Critical violations.

Priority and Priority Foundation violations must be corrected immediately at the time of inspection or within 10 days. Core violations must be corrected within 90 days of the inspection.

Where can I see the inspection results?
Washtenaw County Public Health posts restaurant inspections monthly on Ann Arbor.com. The inspections posted were completed the month prior (i.e. January inspections are posted in February).

You can also search the online database of all restaurant inspections and detailed reports. Click here for access to all Washtenaw County restaurant inspections!

How frequent are inspections?
Routine inspections take place twice per year (or once per year if the business is only open seasonally). Routine inspections are typically unannounced. However, when there are changes to the Food Code or Food Law, like those that took place Oct. 1, 2012, the first routine inspection is scheduled. Key restaurant staff must be present so the Sanitarian can explain how the changes impact the establishment’s operations. The number of violations observed often decreases when inspections are announced. This may explain why the recent inspections appear somewhat better than usual.

Each inspection is a snapshot in time, and conditions found at the restaurant are not necessarily the conditions that could be found in the restaurant at other times. Sanitarians (otherwise known as health inspectors) ask many questions about the menu, operations and procedures to get the best possible idea of the day-to-day conditions of the restaurant. Environmental Health conducts additional inspections if a foodborne illness or other complaint is reported.

What if I have a complaint?
Environmental Health responds to general restaurant complaints as well as foodborne illness complaints. Please call our office at 734-222-3800 to file a complaint or to report a suspected foodborne illness.

March 2013 Restaurant Inspection Results

Establishment Name	Address	City	Inspection Date	Priority Violations	Priority Foundation Violations	Core Violations
24 HOUR VENDING LLC	PO BOX 801	BRIGHTON	03/06/2013	0	0	1
A TASTE OF SOUL	97 SPRING STREET	YPSILANTI	03/07/2013	0	0	1
AFC SUSHI @ EMU	1200 OAKWOOD	YPSILANTI	03/26/2013	0	0	3
ALI BABA RESTAURANT	601 PACKARD	ANN ARBOR	03/25/2013	0	0	0
AMERICAN GRILL INC.	1450 HOLMES ROAD	YPSILANTI	03/20/2013	0	0	1
AMERICAN LEGION POST 322	320 W. MICHIGAN AVENUE	SALINE	03/15/2013	0	0	0
ANN ARBOR REGENT HOTEL CONFERENCE CENTER	2525 CARPENTER RD	ANN ARBOR	03/13/2013	0	0	0
APPLEBEE'S	2310 GREEN ROAD	ANN ARBOR	03/05/2013	0	0	2
APPLEBEE'S	3819 CARPENTER ROAD	YPSILANTI	03/20/2013	0	0	0
ARBOR BREWING CO.	114 E. WASHINGTON	ANN ARBOR	03/05/2013	0	0	0
ARCTIC COLISEUM CONCESSION STAND	501 COLISEUM DR.	CHELSEA	03/08/2013	0	0	0
ARGIERIO'S RESTAURANT	300 DETROIT STREET	ANN ARBOR	03/08/2013	1	0	4
ASIA CITY RESTAURANT	2905 WASHTENAW AVE.	YPSILANTI	03/28/2013	3	0	4
AUBREE'S PIZZERIA & GRILL	8031 MAIN ST. SUITE 100	DEXTER	03/18/2013	2	0	0
AUTOMATIC SALES LLC - THOMPSON SHORE	1600 W. JOY RD - BINDERY	DEXTER	03/06/2013	0	0	0
AUTOMATIC SALES LLC - THOMPSON SHORE	1600 W. JOY RD. - PRESS	DEXTER	03/06/2013	0	0	0
B-24'S FLY BY CAFE'	5577 WHITTAKER RD	YPSILANTI	03/12/2013	0	0	0
BABS' UNDERGROUND LOUNGE	213 S. ASHLEY	ANN ARBOR	03/26/2013	0	0	1
BACH ELEMENTARY	600 W. JEFFERSON	ANN ARBOR	03/20/2013	0	0	1
BANFIELD'S BAR & GRILL	3140 PACKARD	ANN ARBOR	03/19/2013	1	0	2
BATES ELEMENTARY	2704 BAKER ROAD	DEXTER	03/08/2013	0	0	0
BETHLEHEM CHURCH OF CHRIST	423 S. FOURTH AVENUE	ANN ARBOR	03/25/2013	0	0	0
BIGGBY COFFEE	1741 PLYMOUTH RD.	ANN ARBOR	03/05/2013	0	0	0
BILL'S, INC.	1292 E. MICHIGAN AVENUE	YPSILANTI	03/26/2013	0	0	0
BLIND PIG CAFE	208 S. FIRST STREET	ANN ARBOR	03/27/2013	0	1	1
BOMBER RESTAURANT	306 E. MICHIGAN AVENUE	YPSILANTI	03/12/2013	0	0	0
BONA SERA CAFE	200 W. MICHIGAN AVE	YPSILANTI	03/12/2013	0	0	0
BRECON VILLAGE	200 BRECON DRIVE	SALINE	03/04/2013	0	0	0
BRECON VILLAGE COUNTRY STORE	200 BRECON DRIVE	SALINE	03/04/2013	0	0	0
BREWED AWAKENINGS CAFE	7025 E. MICHIGAN AVE	SALINE	03/07/2013	0	0	0
BRIDGEWATER BANK & TAVERN RESTAURANT	8452 BOETTNER	BRIDGEWATER	03/28/2013	0	0	0
BROKEN EGG	221 N. MAIN STREET	ANN ARBOR	03/29/2013	0	0	3
BROOKHAVEN MANOR	401 W. OAKBROOK DRIVE	ANN ARBOR	03/26/2013	0	0	0
BRUEGGER'S BAGEL BAKERY	709 N. UNIVERSITY	ANN ARBOR	03/04/2013	1	1	1
BTB CANTINA (BIG TEN BURRITO CANTINA)	1140 S. UNIVERSITY (2ND FLOOR)	ANN ARBOR	03/13/2013	0	0	0
BURGER KING # 519	823 E. MICHIGAN AVENUE	YPSILANTI	03/25/2013	0	0	0
BURGER KING #472	4885 WASHTENAW	ANN ARBOR	03/07/2013	0	0	0
BURNS PARK ELEMENTARY	1414 WELLS	ANN ARBOR	03/13/2013	0	1	0
CAFE OLLIE/MI GENERAL STORE	42 E. CROSS STREET	YPSILANTI	03/05/2013	2	2	8
CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN	870 BRIARWOOD CIRCLE	ANN ARBOR	03/28/2013	3	1	1
CARPENTER ELEMENTARY	4250 CENTRAL	ANN ARBOR	03/19/2013	0	0	0
CHAN GARDEN	2265 W. LIBERTY	ANN ARBOR	03/14/2013	0	0	0
CHELA'S RESTAURANT & TAQUERIA	693 S. MAPLE ROAD	ANN ARBOR	03/11/2013	2	0	0
CHELSEA COMMUNITY HOSPITAL	775 S. MAIN STREET	CHELSEA	03/07/2013	0	0	0
CHELSEA COMMUNITY CENTER	500 E. WASHINGTON	CHELSEA	03/25/2013	0	0	0
CHELSEA HIGH SCHOOL	740 N. FREER ROAD	CHELSEA	03/25/2013	0	1	0
CHELSEA HIGH SCHOOL CONCESSION	740 N. FREER ROAD	CHELSEA	03/25/2013	1	0	0
CHICK INN	501 HOLMES ROAD	YPSILANTI	03/04/2013	0	0	0
CHINESE TONITE RESTAURANT	1127 S. MAIN STREET	CHELSEA	03/27/2013	0	0	0
CHIPOTLE MEXICAN GRILL #955	3354 WASHTENAW AVE	ANN ARBOR	03/01/2013	0	0	0
CITY LIMITS DINER	220 W. MICHIGAN AVENUE	SALINE	03/15/2013	0	0	0
CLAGUE JR. HIGH SCHOOL	2616 NIXON ROAD	ANN ARBOR	03/12/2013	0	0	0
COFFEE HOUSE CREAMERY	3780 JACKSON RD.	ANN ARBOR	03/06/2013	0	0	0
COMET COFFEE LLC	16 NICKELS ARCADE	ANN ARBOR	03/13/2013	0	0	0
COMMISSION FOR THE BLIND	FORENSIC CNTR BRK RM 8303 Plat	YPSILANTI	03/27/2013	0	0	0
COMMON CUP THE @ ST. LUKE LUTHERN CHURCH	1511 WASHTENAW	ANN ARBOR	03/04/2013	0	1	1
CORNERSTONE ELEMENTARY	7480 DAN HOEY ROAD	DEXTER	03/07/2013	0	0	0
COTTAGE INN PIZZA	546 PACKARD	ANN ARBOR	03/01/2013	0	1	1
COTTAGE INN PIZZA	520 S. MAIN STREET	CHELSEA	03/08/2013	0	0	0
COUNTY COFFEE SHOP	101 E. HURON STREET	ANN ARBOR	03/22/2013	1	0	4
CREEKSIDE INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL	2615 BAKER ROAD	DEXTER	03/08/2013	0	0	0
CSTS DD COMERCIAL KITCHEN	2140 E. ELLSWORTH RD	ANN ARBOR	03/19/2013	0	0	1
CUBS A.C.	1950 S. INDUSTRIAL HIGHWAY	ANN ARBOR	03/14/2013	1	1	1
DABU SUSHI	4037 CARPENTER RD	YPSILANTI	03/28/2013	2	0	6
DAIRY QUEEN OF ANN ARBOR	2430 W. STADIUM BLVD	ANN ARBOR	03/15/2013	0	0	0
DALAT INN RESTAURANT	100 W. MICHIGAN AVENUE	YPSILANTI	03/13/2013	0	0	1
DELICIOUS DOGS @ LOWE'S	3900 CARPENTER RD.	YPSILANTI	03/28/2013	0	0	2
DEXTER CONEY ISLAND RESTAURANT	8124 MAIN STREET	DEXTER	03/01/2013	2	2	5
DEXTER HIGH SCHOOL	2200 N. PARKER RD	DEXTER	03/11/2013	0	0	1
DIBELLAS OLD FASHIONED SUBMARINES	904 W. EISENHOWER PKWY	ANN ARBOR	03/18/2013	0	0	0
DICKEN ELEMENTARY	2135 RUNNYMEDE	ANN ARBOR	03/20/2013	0	0	0
DKY SUSHI	283 S. ZEEB ROAD	ANN ARBOR	03/06/2013	0	0	1
DOMINO'S PIZZA	2601 PLYMOUTH RD STE B	ANN ARBOR	03/14/2013	1	1	1
DOMINO'S PIZZA #1102	25 JACKSON INDUSTRIAL DR	ANN ARBOR	03/19/2013	0	0	0
DWIGHT BEACH MIDDLE SCHOOL	445 A.D. MAYER DRIVE	CHELSEA	03/27/2013	0	0	0
EASTERN FLAME	304 S. ASHLEY	ANN ARBOR	03/29/2013	0	1	5
ELK'S FRONTIER LODGE #1681	1405 ECORSE ROAD	YPSILANTI	03/26/2013	0	0	0
EMU - INTERNATIONAL KITCHEN	900 OAKWOOD	YPSILANTI	03/13/2013	1	0	2
EMU CONVOCATION CENTER	HEWITT ROAD	YPSILANTI	03/21/2013	0	0	6
EMU CROSSROADS & HOYT CONFERENCE CENTER	HOYT CONFERENCE CENTER	YPSILANTI	03/15/2013	1	0	6
EMU EINSTEIN BAGELS	HOYT CONFERENCE CENTER	YPSILANTI	03/15/2013	1	0	2
EMU E-STREET GRILL / JUMP EXPRESS ESTRN	SELLERS DRIVE DC#2	YPSILANTI	03/26/2013	0	0	3
EMU ISLAND FOOD COURT	900 OAKWOOD BLVD.	YPSILANTI	03/13/2013	1	0	3
EMU SATELLITE OPERATIONS	ST. JOHN STDC1	YPSILANTI	03/19/2013	0	1	3
EMU STARBUCKS	900 OAKWOOD BLVD.	YPSILANTI	03/13/2013	0	0	2
EMU SUNSET STRIP / BAKE SHOP	SELLERS DR DC #2	YPSILANTI	03/27/2013	0	0	1
EMU TACO BELL (SALSA GRILLE)	900 OAKWOOD BLVD.	YPSILANTI	03/13/2013	0	0	2
EMU UPPER CRUST (THE)	SELLERS DRIVE	YPSILANTI	03/19/2013	1	1	3
EMU WRAP IT UP / FRESHENS	SELLERS DRIVE	YPSILANTI	03/19/2013	1	0	3
ESPRESSO ROYALE	2264 S. MAIN STREET	ANN ARBOR	03/29/2013	1	1	2
ESPRESSO ROYALE	1101 S. UNIVERSITY	ANN ARBOR	03/06/2013	1	1	2
ESTABROOK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL	1555 W. CROSS STREET	YPSILANTI	03/19/2013	0	1	1
EVERGREEN ORIENTAL INC.	2771 PLYMOUTH ROAD	ANN ARBOR	03/07/2013	0	0	2
EXPRESS FISH & CHICKEN	3015 E MICHIGAN AVE	YPSILANTI	03/19/2013	0	0	1
FENDERS BAR & GRILL	18-20 WABASH STREET	MILAN	03/15/2013	0	0	1
FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH	1200 N. ANN ARBOR STREET	SALINE	03/01/2013	0	0	0
FOOD ZONE CHINESE RESTAURANT	7023 DEXTER-ANN ARBOR ROAD	DEXTER	03/15/2013	0	0	0
FORSYTHE JR. HIGH SCHOOL	1655 NEWPORT ROAD	ANN ARBOR	03/14/2013	1	0	0
FULL HOUSE INC	57 ECORSE ROAD	YPSILANTI	03/14/2013	0	0	0
GANDY DANCER	401 DEPOT STREET	ANN ARBOR	03/13/2013	0	1	1
GIARDINOS	5060 JACKSON ROAD # A-1	ANN ARBOR	03/26/2013	1	1	3
GOLDEN EGG	2660 WASHTENAW	YPSILANTI	03/01/2013	0	0	3
GOLDEN WALL	421 W. CROSS STREET	YPSILANTI	03/29/2013	1	3	6
GRACE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH	1345 S. HARRIS	YPSILANTI	03/13/2013	0	0	0
GRATZI	326 S. MAIN STREET	ANN ARBOR	03/07/2013	0	0	5
GREEK LIFE FOOD SERVICE LLP	50 E. NORTH TERRITORIAL ROAD	WHITMORE LAKE	03/15/2013	0	0	0
GREENHILLS SCHOOL	850 GREENHILLS DR.	ANN ARBOR	03/27/2013	0	0	2
GUI LIN	711 W. MICHIGAN AVENUE	SALINE	03/01/2013	0	0	0
HAABS RESTAURANT, INC	18 W. MICHIGAN AVENUE	YPSILANTI	03/27/2013	2	1	1
HANA RESTAURANT	1346 E. MICHIGAN AVENUE	YPSILANTI	03/14/2013	0	0	3
HAPPY WOK	1916 W. STADIUM BLVD	ANN ARBOR	03/05/2013	0	0	0
HAPPY'S PIZZA #38	2997 WASHTENAW AVE	YPSILANTI	03/05/2013	0	1	0
HARVEST ELEMENTARY SCHOOL	1155 CAMPUS PARKWAY	SALINE	03/08/2013	0	0	0
HARVEST MOON	5484 W. MICHIGAN AVENUE	YPSILANTI	03/25/2013	0	0	0
HERITAGE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL	290 WOODLAND DRIVE	SALINE	03/19/2013	0	0	0
HIGH POINT CENTER	1735 S. WAGNER ROAD	ANN ARBOR	03/26/2013	0	0	0
HURON HIGH SCHOOL CAFETERIA	2727 FULLER ROAD	ANN ARBOR	03/19/2013	0	0	0
HURON KRISPY KRUNCHY CHICKEN	505 S. HURON ST	YPSILANTI	03/11/2013	0	0	4
ICHIBAN JAPANESE STEAK HOUSE & SUSHI BAR	4641 WASHTENAW AVE	ANN ARBOR	03/18/2013	1	0	0
JAMAICAN JERK PIT	314 S. THAYER	ANN ARBOR	03/04/2013	0	0	0
JET'S PIZZA	978 E. MICHIGAN AVE	SALINE	03/07/2013	0	0	0
JET'S PIZZA	7011 DEXTER-ANN ARBOR RD	DEXTER	03/14/2013	0	0	0
JETS PIZZA OF CHELSEA	506 NORTH MAIN ST	CHELSEA	03/18/2013	4	1	1
JOLLY PUMPKIN CAFE & BREWERY	311 S. MAIN ST.	ANN ARBOR	03/13/2013	0	0	0
JUICY KITCHEN	1506 N. MAPLE ROAD	ANN ARBOR	03/01/2013	2	1	1
JUMBO STEAK HOAGIE/BROADWAY CA	1139 BROADWAY	ANN ARBOR	03/27/2013	0	0	0
KAI GARDEN	116 S. MAIN STREET	ANN ARBOR	03/22/2013	0	0	4
KANG'S KOREAN RESTAURANT	1327 S. UNIVERSITY	ANN ARBOR	03/13/2013	0	0	4
KLAGER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL	405 ANN ARBOR STREET	MANCHESTER	03/26/2013	0	0	0
KLUCK'S DRIVE IN	401 E. MICHIGAN AVENUE	YPSILANTI	03/18/2013	1	2	0
KNIGHT'S BAR & RESTAURANT	2324 DEXTER STREET	ANN ARBOR	03/29/2013	3	1	3
KOOLIES ICE CREAM	BUHR PARK-2751 PACKARD RD	ANN ARBOR	03/29/2013	0	0	0
KP'S CATERING (PSI CHI FRATERNITY)	620 S. STATE ST.	ANN ARBOR	03/28/2013	1	1	0
LAS FUENTES MEXICAN RESTAURANT	350 N. MAIN ST.	CHELSEA	03/27/2013	3	2	3
LEO'S CONEY ISLAND	6889 STATE ST.	SALINE	03/04/2013	0	0	0
LEO'S CONEY ISLAND	1342 ANNA J STEPP	YPSILANTI	03/01/2013	0	0	0
LIBERTY ATHLETIC CLUB INDOOR SNACK BAR	2975 W. LIBERTY	ANN ARBOR	03/06/2013	0	0	1
LI'S CHINA ONE	1047 EMERICK ST	YPSILANTI	03/05/2013	0	0	0
LITTLE PORKY'S - WHITMORE LAKE	52 BARKER RD	WHITMORE LAKE	03/07/2013	1	0	0
LOS AMIGOS	2851 E. MICHIGAN AVENUE	YPSILANTI	03/19/2013	1	1	3
LUCA'S CONEY ISLAND	309 E. MICHIGAN AVENUE	YPSILANTI	03/18/2013	0	0	0
MANCHESTER HIGH SCHOOL	20500 DUTCH DRIVE	MANCHESTER	03/26/2013	0	0	0
MANCHESTER MIDDLE SCHOOL	710 E. MAIN STREET	MANCHESTER	03/26/2013	0	0	0
MANGIAMO ITALIAN GRILL	107 W. MICHIGAN AVE	SALINE	03/06/2013	0	0	0
MARCO'S PIZZA #56	1752 PLYMOUTH ROAD	ANN ARBOR	03/05/2013	0	0	0
MARCO'S PIZZA (ANGA LLC)	4068 PACKARD	ANN ARBOR	03/06/2013	0	0	0
MARK 4 LOUNGE	1180 S. MAIN STREET	CHELSEA	03/14/2013	0	0	0
McDONALD'S #11359	1070 HURON RIVER DRIVE	YPSILANTI	03/05/2013	1	0	3
MCDONALD'S #3990	3811 CARPENTER RD	YPSILANTI	03/01/2013	0	0	4
MILL CREEK MIDDLE SCHOOL	7305 DEXTER-ANN ARBOR	DEXTER	03/08/2013	0	0	1
MODERN VENDING SERVICE	SHERIDIAN BOOKS 613 E. INDUS	CHELSEA	03/13/2013	0	0	0
MODERN VENDING SERVICE	GMSPO-87 2885 TYLER	ANN ARBOR	03/13/2013	0	0	1
MODERN VENDING SERVICE	WARDE MEDICAL LAB	ANN ARBOR	03/13/2013	0	0	2
MR. MIKES LOUNGE INC	1425 ECORSE / P.O.BOX 980294	YPSILANTI	03/01/2013	0	1	0
MULTICULTURE ACADEMY	5550 PLATT RD	ANN ARBOR	03/27/2013	0	0	4
MY FAVORITE CAFE	107 N. ANN ARBOR STREET	SALINE	03/07/2013	0	0	0
NO THAI!	1300 S UNIVERSITY STE #3	ANN ARBOR	03/05/2013	0	0	1
NORTH CREEK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL	699 MCKINLEY STREET	CHELSEA	03/08/2013	0	0	0
OCED SENIOR NUTRITION PROGRAM	106 PACKARD	ANN ARBOR	03/29/2013	0	2	3
OLGA'S KITCHEN	454 BRIARWOOD CIRCLE	ANN ARBOR	03/25/2013	0	3	2
OLIVE GARDEN # 1110	445 E. EISENHOWER PKWY	ANN ARBOR	03/27/2013	0	0	1
OUR SAVIOR LUTHERAN CHURCH	1515 S. MAIN STREET	CHELSEA	03/06/2013	0	0	0
PANDA CHINESE & KOREAN RESTAURANT	3020 PACKARD	ANN ARBOR	03/06/2013	0	0	0
PANERA BREAD #1105	1773 PLYMOUTH RD	ANN ARBOR	03/20/2013	0	0	0
PANERA BREAD #874	903 W. EISENHOWER PKWY	ANN ARBOR	03/13/2013	1	0	0
PANERA BREAD #878	5340 JACKSON ROAD	ANN ARBOR	03/12/2013	0	0	1
PAPI'O NIGHTCLUB	2275 ELLSWORTH ROAD	YPSILANTI	03/04/2013	0	0	0
PITA PIT	615 E. UNIVERSITY SUITE A	ANN ARBOR	03/15/2013	1	0	0
PIZZA HUT #26314	2407 WASHTENAW	YPSILANTI	03/05/2013	0	0	0
PIZZA HUT #26316	3045 CARPENTER ROAD	YPSILANTI	03/11/2013	0	0	0
PIZZA HUT #26317	5630 JACKSON ROAD	ANN ARBOR	03/18/2013	1	2	3
PIZZA PINO EATERY	221 W. LIBERTY ST.	ANN ARBOR	03/13/2013	0	0	0
PLEASANT RIDGE ELEMENTARY	229 PLEASANT RIDGE	SALINE	03/27/2013	0	0	0
POWELL'S PUB	625 N. HURON	YPSILANTI	03/08/2013	3	3	9
RAJA RANI INDIAN CUISINE	400 S. DIVISION	ANN ARBOR	03/14/2013	0	0	0
RED LOBSTER #260	2420 CARPENTER ROAD	ANN ARBOR	03/12/2013	0	0	5
SADAKO JAPANESE RESTAURANT	1321 S. UNIVERSITY	ANN ARBOR	03/13/2013	0	0	1
SAICA	1733 PLYMOUTH ROAD	ANN ARBOR	03/12/2013	0	0	1
SALINE HIGH SCHOOL	1300 CAMPUS PARKWAY	SALINE	03/08/2013	0	0	0
SALINE HIGH SCHOOL "THE HIVE"	1300 CAMPUS PARKWAY	SALINE	03/12/2013	0	0	0
SALINE MIDDLE SCHOOL	7190 N MAPLE	SALINE	03/19/2013	0	0	0
SAN FU ORIENTAL CUISINE	625 S. MAIN STREET	ANN ARBOR	03/14/2013	0	0	8
SATCHEL'S BBQ LLLC	3035 WASHTENAW AVE	ANN ARBOR	03/12/2013	0	0	0
SCOREKEEPERS	310 MAYNARD/P.O.BOX 8260	ANN ARBOR	03/13/2013	0	0	0
SHARON UNITED METHODIST CHURCH - HALL	19980 PLEASANT LAKE RD	MANCHESTER	03/19/2013	0	0	0
SINBAD KONEY ISLAND	2563 ELLSWORTH ROAD	YPSILANTI	03/29/2013	0	0	5
SKYLINE HIGH SCHOOL CAFETERIA	2552 N. MAPLE RD	ANN ARBOR	03/11/2013	0	0	0
SLAUSON JR.HIGH SCHOOL	1019 N. WASHINGTON	ANN ARBOR	03/13/2013	0	1	0
SMARTY CATZ	16 N. HURON STREET	YPSILANTI	03/05/2013	0	0	1
SODEXO - INTERFIRST CITIGR BSMT	6300 INTERFIRST	ANN ARBOR	03/07/2013	0	0	0
SODEXO - INTERFIRST CITIGR CAFE	6300 INTERFIRST	ANN ARBOR	03/07/2013	0	0	1
SONGBIRD, THE	2707 PLYMOUTH RD	ANN ARBOR	03/07/2013	1	0	0
SOTTINI SUB SHOP	1525 WASHTENAW AVE.	YPSILANTI	03/11/2013	1	1	1
SOUTH MEADOWS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL	335 PIERCE STREET	CHELSEA	03/14/2013	0	0	0
SOUTHPOINTE SCHOLARS CHARTER ACADEMY	10550 GEDDES RD	YPSILANTI	03/26/2013	0	0	0
ST. ANDREW CATHOLIC CHURCH	910 AUSTIN DRIVE	SALINE	03/01/2013	0	0	0
ST. JOSEPH MERCY HEALTH SYSTEM	5301 E.HURON RIV *for temp	ANN ARBOR	03/08/2013	0	0	0
ST. JOSEPH MERCY HEALTH SYSTEM	5301 E.HURON RIV *for temp	ANN ARBOR	03/08/2013	0	0	0
ST. MARY CATHOLIC CHURCH	14200 E OLD U.S. 12	CHELSEA	03/19/2013	0	0	0
ST. PATRICK'S CHURCH-PARISH HALL	5671 WHITMORE LAKE ROAD	ANN ARBOR	03/14/2013	1	0	0
ST. PAUL UNITED CH OF CHRIST	122 W. MICHIGAN AVENUE	SALINE	03/12/2013	0	0	0
ST. PAULS LUTHERAN SCHOOL	495 EARHART ROAD	ANN ARBOR	03/18/2013	0	0	0
ST. THOMAS PARISH HALL	530 ELIZABETH STREET	ANN ARBOR	03/14/2013	0	0	0
ST. THOMAS SCHOOL CAFETERIA	540 ELIZABETH STREET	ANN ARBOR	03/14/2013	0	0	1
STERLING SERVICES - R & B MACHINE TOOL	1605 WOODLAND - LUNCHROOM	SALINE	03/07/2013	0	1	1
STOCKWELL'S BREAKFAST & LUNCH	108 ADRAIN ST.	MANCHESTER	03/07/2013	0	0	0
STONE SCHOOL CAFETERIA	2800 STONE SCHOOL ROAD	ANN ARBOR	03/26/2013	0	0	0
SUBWAY #50227	411 E. WASHINGTON STE A2	ANN ARBOR	03/26/2013	0	0	5
SUBWAY #5076	2868 WASHTENAW	YPSILANTI	03/05/2013	0	0	0
SUBWAY OF DEXTER	7050 DEXTER-ANN ARBOR RD 600	DEXTER	03/18/2013	0	0	0
SUSHI TOWN	740 PACKARD	ANN ARBOR	03/04/2013	0	0	0
TAQUERIA LA FIESTA MEXICAN RESTAURANT	4060 PACKARD RD	ANN ARBOR	03/06/2013	0	0	4
TIM HORTON'S	760 S. HEWITT ROAD	YPSILANTI	03/07/2013	0	0	2
TMAZ TAQUERIA	3182 PACKARD RD	ANN ARBOR	03/08/2013	5	0	5
TOPPERS PIZZA	607 E WILLIAM ST	ANN ARBOR	03/04/2013	1	0	0
TOYOTA TECH CENTER(YORK) - ARAMARK	8777 PLATT RD	SALINE	03/12/2013	0	0	0
TOYOTA TECHNICAL CENTER	1555 WOODRIDGE	ANN ARBOR	03/04/2013	1	0	0
U OF M HILLEL FOUNDATION	1429 HILL STREET	ANN ARBOR	03/28/2013	0	0	1
UNIVERSITY ASSISTED LIVING	2865 S. MAIN STREET	ANN ARBOR	03/26/2013	0	0	0
VELLUM RESTAURANT	209 S MAIN ST	ANN ARBOR	03/05/2013	1	0	4
VETERANS ICE RINK & SWIM POOL	2150 JACKSON ROAD	ANN ARBOR	03/08/2013	0	0	1
WASHTENAW CHRISTIAN ACADEMY	7200 MOON RD	SALINE	03/06/2013	0	0	0
WCC CULINARY ARTS KITCHEN	4800 E. HURON RIVER DRIVE	ANN ARBOR	03/14/2013	3	1	0
WCC STUDENT CENTER - CONTINENTAL	4800 E. HURON RIVER DRIVE	ANN ARBOR	03/20/2013	0	0	0
WENDY'S @ EMU	900 OAKWOOD	YPSILANTI	03/18/2013	0	0	1
WEST MIDDLE SCHOOL	105 N. MANSFIELD	YPSILANTI	03/26/2013	0	0	4
WHAT CREPE ANN ARBOR LLC	241 E. LIBERTY	ANN ARBOR	03/28/2013	0	0	0
WHITE CASTLE MICHIGAN #26	3953 PACKARD	ANN ARBOR	03/19/2013	0	0	1
WHITMORE LAKE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL	1077 BARKER ROAD	WHITMORE LAKE	03/28/2013	0	0	0
WHITMORE LAKE MIDDLE SCHOOL	8877 MAIN STREET	WHITMORE LAKE	03/26/2013	0	0	0
WHITMORE LAKE TAVERN	9839 MAIN STREET	WHITMORE LAKE	03/06/2013	0	0	0
WINES ELEMENTARY	1701 NEWPORT ROAD	ANN ARBOR	03/14/2013	0	0	0
WOLVERINE FOOD & SPIRITS, INC	20460 OLD US-12	CHELSEA	03/29/2013	0	0	1
WOODLAND MEADOWS ELEMENTARY	350 WOODLAND DRIVE	SALINE	03/27/2013	0	0	0
WYLIE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL	3060 KENSINGTON	DEXTER	03/07/2013	0	0	1
ZAL GAZ GROTTO	2070 W. STADIUM BLVD	ANN ARBOR	03/12/2013	0	0	0

Washtenaw County Public Health promotes health and works to prevent disease and injury in our community. Visit us online at http://publichealth.ewashtenaw.org.

No idle mother: Sheetal Patcheak's crusade to reduce engine idling in Washtenaw County

Wed, 17 Apr, 2013 7:26 a.m.

The Patcheak family (from the left) Keshav, 6, Vishnu, 10, Sheetal, and Madhav, 1, inspires other families to take action for environmental change in their schools. (not pictured: Dad, Terry Patcheak)

Sheetal Patcheak, mother of three, never imagined she would star in a rap video about air pollution. Ever since she realized that the perennial queue of idling SUVs and minivans in front of her son’s school was poisoning the air — at times more so than second-hand smoke — she’s been on a mission. With the support of her husband and the enthusiasm of her young sons, Sheetal is inspiring students and their parents to, “Turn the key and be idle free!”

Sheetal is concerned about engine idling both as a health threat to our children and an environmental scourge. She points out that according to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) statistics, “One minute of idling emits more carbon monoxide than three packs of cigarettes. Now, we are all aware of smoking. We don’t even want people smoking in front of the buildings anymore, but we don’t even think twice about idling! There are 40 toxic pollutants [in engine exhaust].”

Schoolchildren are especially vulnerable to this type of air pollution. “[Exhaust] is known to cause asthma, allergies, lung problems, and cancer. The exhaust pipe is right where kids are standing at the dismissal line. They sit on the cement waiting to be picked up,” says Sheetal.

On weekday mornings and afternoons Sheetal ferries her sons, Vishnu, 10, and Keshav, 6, to and from East Arbor Charter Academy in Ypsilanti, with baby Madhav tucked in his car seat. “Idling is even worse if you have babies in the car, because the toxins circulate inside,” she says. “There are so many moms that have babies in the car...and they want to be first in the line so that they can leave quickly... It’s not just a half-hour pick-up, it’s hours.”

Sheetal would like the loading areas at her boys’ school and at schools across Washtenaw County to become “Idle Free Zones,” where parents and bus drivers turn off their engines while waiting.

Curbing vehicle emissions from carpools will improve the air quality at schools, but school bus emissions must also be reduced. Chronic inhalation of diesel exhaust can lead to health problems, especially for children with asthma or other respiratory sensitivities. In the Washtenaw Intermediate School District (WISD) yellow school buses make 700 diesel-fueled runs and traverse 13,000 miles every school day according to Thomas Moore, director of transportation for WISD.

After the buses depart from the schools, the danger does not evaporate. A Yale University study revealed that an invisible cloud of carcinogenic diesel particulates lingers, tainting the circumambient air around the school.

Idling pollution near schools is a problem that Washtenaw County is beginning to take seriously.

For the past 18 months, the members of the Michigan Motor-Smart Idling Education Task Force have made steady progress on a plan to increase awareness about the hazards of unnecessary idling and to encourage its reduction.

The task force has created a website, motor-smart.org, with links to idling reduction resources, produced a four-minute video debunking myths about engine idling, published an in-depth interview about idling’s fallout on CTN’s “The Green Room,” and is piloting educational programs for schools and parents.

Sheetal didn’t set out to be an environmental crusader. It all started when Mindy DeJarnett, Vishnu’s third grade teacher at Keystone Charter School in Ypsilanti, invited parents into the classroom to speak on topics that mattered to them. To teach the value of recycling Sheetal had the class sort household recyclables by number. The kids vowed never to use #6 (polystyrene) again!

The next time Sheetal visited the class she played a brief video about engine idling. The kids were outraged. They wanted to know why their parents were allowed to idle and how they could stop them.

When Sheetal returned to the school a week later she was blown away. The kids had concocted a skit for the principal, plastered a hand painted, anti-idling poster in his office, and drawn up fact sheets about idling. They had even instituted a “Caught Being Good” reward for parents who turned off their engines.

The momentum to discourage idling schoolwide built from there. Empowered by the children’s enthusiasm Sheetal periodically sent home flyers with myth-busting facts, and she made bookmarks, each with a picture of a student and a quote such as, “I have asthma, if you stop idling it will help me.”

Rather than take a hard line, Sheetal personalizes her anti-idling crusade. “People who are eco-conscious can box themselves as self-righteous,” she says, “I try to have compassion; I was where they are now in my understanding.”

“I’m not into, ‘Let’s save the planet, lets save our air, let save our waters,’ because this is mere idealism. I’m trying to make people aware in a more self-centered way. For many of us we can connect ‘Save the earth’ to ‘it’s good for me, it’s good for you, it’s good for all,’ but not everyone is into the idling example. They say ‘I’m cold in my car right now, let’s save the planet at a later date. We have this notion in India, sort of a proverb, ‘You’re cutting a branch off a tree, but then you’re sitting on the branch. You’re not realizing that when the branch falls you're falling.’”

Sheetal was eager to carry the no-idling charge forward when her sons enrolled in the newly constructed EACA the following year. To kick things off she organized student council members to survey waiting drivers about their idling habitats, asking, “Do you idle? How long do you think it’s OK to idle?”

Given permission by the Principal Shawn Leonard, Sheetal posted “No Idling Zone” street signs along the dismissal lanes. She was pleased that these efforts produced an immediate reduction in the number of running engines in the school’s eight dismissal lanes.

Vishnu and another East Arbor Charter Academy student survey drivers in the school’s dismissal lanes about their idling habits.

Sheetal says experience taught her that with a habit like idling, “‘If you have these reminders from [kids] sitting in car seats it’s easier’...I was thinking, ‘What’s the best medium to reach kids?’ My son says, ‘Mom why don’t you write a rap?’”

Most mothers would nip that idea in the bud, but not Sheetal. She Googled it. After a visit to Ehow: How to Write a Rap, she penned her verses, and then recorded herself performing the track and set it to a beat. Using an online, do-it-yourself music video production service, she turned out a YouTube video. Would this rap that Vishnu believed to be the ultimate piece de resistance inspire the new school?

Students, teachers, and parents packed the school auditorium for the assembly. Vishnu and his fellow student council members waited nervously to perform. The beat came up above the din, and the crowd quieted. As her music video played on a screen above the crowd, Vishnu and his friends rapped along, “It’s not cool to idle at school! So please turn your key and be idle free!” Teachers began to clap, and the room was ready to erupt! Later, Sheetal heard children chanting, “Just turn the key, be idle free!”

Today, Sheetal is the Michigan Green Schools Committee Coordinator for EACA. With the steadfast support of Principal Leonard she continues to battle idling. She also established schoolwide in-classroom paper and plastic recycling. Every month she personally sorts hundreds of cheese wrappers and juice pouches for Terracycle, an upcycling service that pays for school’s trash, which they turn into new items like backpacks and birdfeeders. So far the school has earned about $200 that they plan to use for a wildlife garden.

Washtenaw county coordinator for the Michigan Green Schools Foundation (far left); Principal Shawn Leonard (back row, center); kindergartener Keshav Patcheak and his mother Sheetal Patcheak (both second from the right), display anti-idling street-signs and posters in front of the East Arbor Charter Academy.

Sheetal’s former life as a chemical engineer and IT professional for Ford Motor Co. did little to prepare her for becoming an agent of environmental change. She says, “I’m just driven by a passion. I’m not a rapper or a bookmark maker or anything...You just find ways to inspire another person. It becomes fun, play.”

Her advice to parents who want to make changes in their children’s school is to be willing to try new things and not get discouraged if you have to go it alone. “I had bi-weekly meetings for the Green Schools Committee. I would have juice and bagels. Sometimes half a dozen people showed up, sometimes no one,” Sheetal says. “I had zero expectation. Just for them to allow me to do stuff was a big enough support.”

Since permission from a principal is needed for school-wide projects she suggests that parents start small, perhaps taking just ten minutes of time in their child’s classroom.

Sheetal Patcheak will continue to spread the word about idling. For her, encouraging habitats like recycling and promoting ecological ideals means saving our children. She says, “We are slowly ingesting poison into our young, growing leaders, and expecting them to take care of us when we are old and incapable. They are our future leaders; their brains need to be smart! They need to breathe clean air, at the least we can give it to them. Turning off the engine is the least we can do.”

Mary Mathias and Rizzo

Mary Mathias is a Media Outreach Coordinator for Washtenaw County Public Health's Environmental Health Division, and she reports on environmental issues in the county. She can be reached at mathiasm@ewashtenaw.org.

Healthy Workplace Awards: Promoting wellness offers a return on investment

Fri, 5 Apr, 2013 11 a.m.

Kathy Fellabaum, MSW, RD

The first week of April was National Public Health Week. Being relatively new to the Washtenaw County Public Health Department, I thought this would be a great opportunity to learn more, so I was happy to help coordinate our Healthy Workplace Awards.

Public Health had given these awards out to local businesses in years past, but over time this practice ended. Our medical director, Dr. Alice Penrose, thought it was a good time to reestablish them. Her belief is, “If you can build exercise and healthy eating into your daily routine, you are more likely to stick to whatever program you start.” We agreed that honoring local businesses that are making critical investments in their employees’ health was a fitting way to celebrate Public Health Week in Washtenaw County.

The awards recognize small and large businesses that are promoting healthy behaviors in the workplace, such as physical activity or healthy eating, through wellness programs or other strategies. Since employees spend a huge part of their day at work, it’s easier to follow through on healthy habits and weight loss efforts if these can be practiced throughout the workday with the help of wellness programs. Employers also benefit when their employees are healthy, as this can lead to lower health care costs.

As a registered dietitian in my previous position, I often noted that many of my patients were skipping meals and having a really hard time eating healthy food. Their work and family commitments left them either not eating much at all, or grabbing unhealthy meals on an irregular schedule.

Eating healthier meals on a more regular basis contributes to your overall health, especially if you are trying to manage a chronic disease like diabetes. That’s why I am so interested in the Healthy Workplace Awards - because it gives us the chance to publicize what companies are doing to help employees in their quest for health, allowing others to learn from their best practices.

The winners are…

Public Health selected five local businesses for their investment in employee health to receive the 2013 Healthy Workplace Award:

Bank of Ann Arbor

City of Ann Arbor

Growing Hope

Kaiser Optical Systems Inc.

Whole Foods Market

These organizations are all offering creative ways to encourage their employees to make healthier choices — from offering incentives, providing resources, supporting group efforts and simply just making it fun!

Tips for Success

Get support from the top. James Miller, Director of Human Resources at the Bank of Ann Arbor advises, "Make certain that your program is supported and led by senior leadership."
Find and use "Wellness Champions" in your organization. Linda Reiher, Senior Systems Engineer and Wellness Champion at Kaiser Optical Systems says, "Our site has two employees who serve as Wellness Champions to help facilitate and deploy the corporate wellness initiatives."
Ask for employee feedback. Casey VanNest of Growing Hope advocates for surveying staff. "Staff were able to give their recommendations . . . to help them achieve their wellness goals such as classes or on-site health screenings and workshops. They also gave their opinions on topics they would be interested in learning more about." She concludes, "Listen to your staff. You may be surprised at what they have to say."

Return on Investment
National Public Health Week is observed annually during the first week of April. This year's theme was Public Health's return on investment, or ROI: "Public Health is ROI - Save Lives, Save Money." Workplaces that invest in employee health improve productivity; reduce the risk of chronic illness; and ultimately, save money.

"Our efforts to promote wellness in the workplace are having positive benefits to our cost structure," notes Miller. "Even with the exponentially rising cost of healthcare, our year-over-year health care costs per employee have remained flat."

Healthcare costs will undoubtedly continue to rise, and unhealthy behaviors and resulting illnesses are contributing to these costs. In Washtenaw County, the percentage of adults who are overweight or obese has increased significantly over time. Worksite wellness programs offer a promising approach to curbing this trend by integrating regular physical activity or other healthful behaviors into the workday.

Images of the award winners

Richard Fleece (left), health officer, Washtenaw County Public Health, and James Miller, vice president and director of human resources, Bank of Ann Arbor

Richard Fleece (left) with Kelly Beck, employee benefits supervisor, and Jessica Bueter, employee benefits coordinator, City of Ann Arbor

Richard Fleece (left) with Casey Van Nest, operations manager, Growing Hope

Richard Fleece (left) with Linda Reiher, senior systems engineer, and Charlene Cach, customer service manager, Kaiser Optical Systems, Inc.

Richard Fleece (left) with Susan Bellinson, marketing director, Whole Foods Market

Washtenaw County Public Health promotes health and works to prevent disease and injury in our community. Visit us online at http://publichealth.ewashtenaw.org.

Kathy Fellabaum is a Registered Dietitian and Health Educator with Washtenaw County Public Health. She can be reached at 734-544-2969 or fellabaumk@ewashtenaw.org.

Still Got It! Ann Arbor Y hosts free 50+ fitness and wellness program

Tue, 2 Apr, 2013 10:01 p.m.

As an active guy over 50, I don't consider age a barrier to keeping healthy and fit. But making smart choices about food, regular exercise, and care of body and mind becomes especially important to maintain a high quality of life. So when I heard about a new health and fitness program specifically designed for people 50-64, I had to check it out.

Hosted by the Ann Arbor YMCA, the 50 Moving Forward initiative is a set of fitness classes, workshops, walks, talks, and other activities developed through a collaboration between Y-USA and Pfizer. Ann Arbor is one of 25 locations launching the program. Its tagline is, "Of Course I've Still Got It!"

Jan Hack, communications director at the Ann Arbor Y, told me that the program will focus on, "healthy eating, prevention, fitness and fun."

"It's a way to reinforce the idea that you don't have to slow down at this age," she said. "Part of 'I've Still Got It' is the idea that you never lost it."

She's right, you know. Exercising in a class feels SO much better! (The author at the Saline Rec Center.)

Jeff Jackson | Contributor

Jan encourages you to get involved, regardless of your current fitness level. Being healthy, she explains, is not only about exercise and eating right, but social activity. "Interacting with a group encourages being active," she said, "and being active supports being healthy. And the Y is good at providing those interactions."

Want more good news? All events are free of charge, and you don't need to be a member of the Y to participate.

The kickoff event will be held 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, April 9, at the Mallets Creek branch of the Ann Arbor Public Library. Jean Jennings, President and editor-in-chief of Automobile Magazine and author of the blog JeanKnowsCars.com, will speak about her experiences and the challenges she faces of staying fit and active over age 50.

Other events being offered this spring include introductory classes in yoga, Pilates, Pickleball, tai chi, and Zumba, a walking tour of historic Ann Arbor, a Bird Hike in Gallup Park, a scavenger hunt at the Farmer's Market, a Whole Foods Healthy Cooking Class, and workshops on stress management and "Caring for the Caretaker."

The calendar on the program's website has the full schedule, along with contact information for more details on particular events. Many special or one-time events take place on weekends to make them more accessible to people otherwise busy with work, kids, and, as is the case for many in the 50-64 age group, care for aging parents.

In addition, you can register online for 50 Moving Forward, where you'll receive support and information that will help you develop and maintain a healthy lifestyle, and stay informed about upcoming activities. Registration in the online initiative is optional and not necessary for attending events.

Jan is excited about the program. "We really feel like the 50-64 age demographic has been overlooked," she said. "This program, while it's open to anyone, is meant to focus on this age group. They're so used to serving others. Now we're giving them an opportunity to let them do something good for themselves."

Jeff Jackson is a runner, cyclist, and student of Aikido who writes the Fitness at 50+ blog. His other interests include history, writing and food (especially coffee, bread and chocolate). He can be reached at jeff@fitnessat50.net.

Restaurant Inspections for Washtenaw County in February 2013

Wed, 27 Mar, 2013 6 a.m.

Priority violations are the most serious. Correcting these eliminates or reduces a problem directly associated with foodborne illness. Examples include improper food temperatures and lack of hand washing. Priority violations were previously called Critical violations.

Priority Foundation violations are problems that can lead to a Priority violation. Correcting these problems may keep Priority violations from occurring. Examples include not having an appropriate food thermometer, not having sanitizer test strips and not having soap or paper towel at a hand sink. The Priority Foundation category is made up of violations that were previously called Critical or Non-Critical Violations.

Core violations are related to general sanitation and facility maintenance. Core violations were previously called Non-Critical violations. Examples include dirty floors and improper facility lighting.

Priority and Priority Foundation violations must be corrected immediately at the time of inspection or within 10 days. Core violations must be corrected within 90 days of the inspection.

You can also search the online database of all restaurant inspections and detailed reports. Click here for access to all Washtenaw County restaurant inspections!

February 2013 Restaurant Inspection Results

Establishment	Address	City	Inspection Date	Priority Violations	Priority Foundation Violations	Core Violations
A.D.P. NETWORK	175 JACKSON PLAZA	ANN ARBOR	02/21/2013	1	0	1
AHMO'S GYROS & DELI	341 E. HURON	ANN ARBOR	02/26/2013	0	0	0
AMADEUS CAFE	122 E. WASHINGTON	ANN ARBOR	02/14/2013	0	0	0
AMVETS POST 269 - ROBERT L. CARVER	2839 E. MICHIGAN AVE	YPSILANTI	02/26/2013	0	0	0
ANGELO'S LUNCH	1100 E. CATHERINE	ANN ARBOR	02/08/2013	0	0	5
ANGELO'S ON THE SIDE	1100 E. CATHERINE	ANN ARBOR	02/08/2013	0	0	4
ANN ARBOR PIZZA COMPANY & BURRITO JOINT	1200 PACKARD	ANN ARBOR	02/13/2013	1	2	1
ANN ARBOR REGENT HOTEL & SUITS	2455 CARPENTER RD.	ANN ARBOR	02/19/2013	0	0	0
ANTHONY'S GOURMET PIZZA	621 SOUTH MAIN ST	ANN ARBOR	02/08/2013	0	0	0
APPLEBEE'S	1005 E. EISENHOWER PKWY	ANN ARBOR	02/01/2013	0	0	1
B 24's	217 W. MICHIGAN AVENUE	YPSILANTI	02/08/2013	2	0	1
BANDITO'S	216 S. FOURTH AVENUE	ANN ARBOR	02/12/2013	0	0	0
BANG'KOK CUISINE EXPRESS #3 INC.	4119 STONE SCHOOL RD	ANN ARBOR	02/28/2013	0	0	5
BARNES & NOBLE BOOKSELLERS, INC	3235 WASHTENAW	ANN ARBOR	02/26/2013	0	0	0
BELL'S DINER	2167 W. STADIUM BLVD	ANN ARBOR	02/12/2013	0	0	0
BEL-MARK LANES-ANN ARBOR BOWLING LLC	3530 JACKSON ROAD	ANN ARBOR	02/06/2013	0	0	0
BENITO'S PIZZA	439 E. MICHIGAN AVENUE	SALINE	02/07/2013	0	0	0
BETH ISRAEL CONGREGATION	2000 WASHTENAW	ANN ARBOR	02/01/2013	0	0	0
BIG OCEAN	334 S. FORD BLVD	YPSILANTI	02/12/2013	0	0	0
BIGGBY COFFEE	539 E. LIBERTY ST	ANN ARBOR	02/19/2013	0	0	0
BRECON GRILLE	101 W. MICHIGAN AVE	SALINE	02/07/2013	0	0	0
BTB (BIG TEN BURRITO)	810 S. STATE STREET	ANN ARBOR	02/06/2013	0	0	1
BUFFALO WILD WINGS	205 S. STATE STREET	ANN ARBOR	02/25/2013	0	0	0
BUFFALO WILD WINGS	216 JAMES L. HART PARKWAY	YPSILANTI	02/11/2013	0	0	0
BURGER KING # 4187	725 VICTORS WAY	ANN ARBOR	02/06/2013	0	1	0
BURGER KING # 434	2295 W. STADIUM BLVD	ANN ARBOR	02/12/2013	0	0	0
BURGER KING #11248	151 S. ZEEB ROAD	ANN ARBOR	02/04/2013	0	0	0
CAFE ZOLA	112 W. WASHINGTON	ANN ARBOR	02/28/2013	0	0	0
CHELSEA ALEHOUSE BREWERY	420 N MAIN ST. STE 100	CHELSEA	02/06/2013	0	0	0
CHINA GATE RESTAURANT	1201 S. UNIVERSITY	ANN ARBOR	02/07/2013	0	0	2
CHINA ONE	29 E. MAIN STREET	MILAN	02/07/2013	0	0	0
CHIPOTLE MEXICAN GRILL	858 BRIARWOOD CIRCLE, STE E130	ANN ARBOR	02/19/2013	2	0	1
CHIPOTLE MEXICAN GRILL	235 S. STATE ST.	ANN ARBOR	02/27/2013	1	1	2
CLARK'S CO & GRILL	1653 HOLMES ROAD	YPSILANTI	02/08/2013	0	0	0
CLASSIC CUP CAFE	4389 JACKSON ROAD	ANN ARBOR	02/19/2013	0	1	0
CLASSIC PIZZA	8015 HURON	DEXTER	02/15/2013	0	0	0
CLOVERLEAF	201 E. LIBERTY	ANN ARBOR	02/22/2013	1	4	1
COMMON GRILL	112 S. MAIN STREET	CHELSEA	02/21/2013	0	0	0
CORNER BREWERY, LLC	720 NORRIS ST	YPSILANTI	02/14/2013	0	0	3
COTTAGE INN CARRY OUT STORES	501 E. MICHIGAN AVENUE	SALINE	02/04/2013	0	0	1
COTTAGE INN PIZZA	3219 BROAD ST.	DEXTER	02/26/2013	0	0	0
COTTAGE INN PIZZA	1141 BROADWAY	ANN ARBOR	02/11/2013	0	0	0
COTTAGE INN PIZZA	2900 STATE STREET	ANN ARBOR	02/14/2013	0	0	0
COTTAGE INN PIZZA	2301 W. STADIUM BLVD	ANN ARBOR	02/12/2013	0	0	0
DEXTER HIGH SCHOOL(Concession Stand)	2200 PARKER RD	DEXTER	02/01/2013	0	1	0
DIMO'S RESTAURANT	2030 W. STADIUM BLVD	ANN ARBOR	02/13/2013	0	0	0
DON'S VENDING SERVICE - JC PENNY	PENNYS AT BRIARWOOD	ANN ARBOR	02/26/2013	0	0	2
DOWNTOWN DINER	131 E. MICHIGAN AVENUE, STE D	SALINE	02/07/2013	0	0	0
DROWSY PARROT MERCANTILE LTD	105 N. ANN ARBOR STREET	SALINE	02/04/2013	0	0	0
EARTHEN JAR	311 S. FIFTH AVENUE	ANN ARBOR	02/14/2013	0	0	0
EASTERN ACCENTS	214 S. FOURTH AVENUE	ANN ARBOR	02/13/2013	0	0	0
ELLIE'S CHOCOLATE CAFE	312 N. MAIN ST.	CHELSEA	02/20/2013	1	0	1
EMANUAL UNITED CHURCH OF CHR	324 W. MAIN STEET	MANCHESTER	02/21/2013	0	0	1
ESPRESSO ROYALE	324 S. STATE STREET	ANN ARBOR	02/12/2013	2	0	0
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH	1432 WASHTENAW	ANN ARBOR	02/01/2013	0	0	0
FIVE GUYS BURGERS AND FRIES	311 S. STATE	ANN ARBOR	02/25/2013	0	0	2
FLEETWOOD DINER	300 S. ASHLEY	ANN ARBOR	02/13/2013	0	0	1
FOOD FOR ALL SEASONS	124 W. SUMMIT, SUITE B&C	ANN ARBOR	02/01/2013	0	0	2
FOREST HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER - CAFETERIA	135 S. PROSPECT	ANN ARBOR	02/21/2013	0	0	0
FRANKS PLACE	104 E. MAIN STREET	MANCHESTER	02/21/2013	0	0	0
FRATERNAL ORDER OF EAGLES	2935 HOLMES ROAD	YPSILANTI	02/19/2013	0	0	0
GRAHAMS	600 HILTON BLVD	ANN ARBOR	02/14/2013	2	0	0
GRAND TRAVERSE PIE COMPANY	291 NORTH ZEEB RD	ANN ARBOR	02/04/2013	0	0	0
GRANGE KITCHEN & BAR	118 W. LIBERTY	ANN ARBOR	02/12/2013	0	0	0
GREAT WALL CHINESE RESTAURANT	2128 WHITTAKER ROAD	YPSILANTI	02/21/2013	1	1	5
HAIFA FALAFEL	4584 WASHTENAW AVE STE 2	ANN ARBOR	02/26/2013	0	0	0
HELLO FAZ PIZZA	2259 W. LIBERTY	ANN ARBOR	02/07/2013	0	2	1
HELLO ICE CREAM & GELATO	3744 PLAZA DR	ANN ARBOR	02/26/2013	0	0	0
HEPHZIBAH UNC (DBA TERIYAKI TIME)	314 DETROIT STREET	ANN ARBOR	02/01/2013	0	0	3
HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS	1540 COMMERCE PARK DR.	CHELSEA	02/27/2013	0	0	0
HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS	600 HILTON BLVD.	ANN ARBOR	02/14/2013	0	0	0
HOLIDAY INN HOTEL & SUITES	3155 BOARDWALK DRIVE	ANN ARBOR	02/05/2013	0	0	0
HOTEL HICKMAN WILD WEST ADVENTURES	8050 MAIN ST.	DEXTER	02/15/2013	1	0	0
HOWARD HOAGIES # 3	2011 MCCARTNEY	YPSILANTI	02/13/2013	0	0	1
HUNGRY HOWIE'S	1874 WHITTAKER ROAD	YPSILANTI	02/20/2013	0	0	0
HUNGRY HOWIE'S / MILAN PIZZA	901 W. MICHIGAN AVENUE	SALINE	02/06/2013	0	0	0
HURON HIGH INDOOR CONCESSIONS	2727 FULLER ROAD	ANN ARBOR	02/12/2013	0	0	0
INTERFIRST CAFE/SODEXO	6300 INTERFIRST DRIVE	ANN ARBOR	02/21/2013	0	0	0
IORIO'S, LLC	522 E. WILLIAMS ST.	ANN ARBOR	02/14/2013	1	0	0
JERUSALEM KITCHEN INC	2251 W. LIBERTY	ANN ARBOR	02/26/2013	0	0	0
JET'S PIZZA	1298 ANNA J. STEPP	YPSILANTI	02/27/2013	0	0	0
JOE'S JAVA @ CHELSEA COMMUNITY HOSPITAL	775 S MAIN ST	CHELSEA	02/05/2013	0	0	0
KATHERINE'S CATERING	359 METTY DR., SUITE #4	ANN ARBOR	02/06/2013	0	0	0
KATIE'S	2830 BAKER ROAD	DEXTER	02/19/2013	0	0	0
KFC #W812092	39 E. MICHIGAN AVENUE	YPSILANTI	02/21/2013	0	0	1
KFC #W812127	4040 WASHTENAW	ANN ARBOR	02/05/2013	0	0	0
KFC / TACO BELL	502 E. MICHIGAN AVENUE	SALINE	02/26/2013	1	0	4
KOOLIES ICE CREAM	HURON VALLEY PRISON-3201 BEMIS	YPSILANTI	02/07/2013	0	0	1
KOSMO	407 N. FIFTH AVENUE	ANN ARBOR	02/01/2013	0	1	4
L.O.O.M. YPSI LODGE # 782	5506 STONEY CREEK ROAD	YPSILANTI	02/14/2013	1	1	1
LA CAFE'	7120 DEXTER-ANN ARBOR RD	DEXTER	02/07/2013	0	1	1
LAB	505 E. LIBERTY STE 300	ANN ARBOR	02/22/2013	0	0	1
LE DOG/DOBOS INTERNATIONAL	306 S. MAIN ST., SUITE 1E	ANN ARBOR	02/07/2013	0	0	1
LEO'S CONEY ISLAND	3644 CARPENTER RD, SUITE A	ANN ARBOR	02/19/2013	0	0	3
LIGHTHOUSE COFFEE CO.	9 W. MAIN STREET	MILAN	02/28/2013	1	0	1
LIVE, THE LAST WORD DBA	102 S. FIRST STREET	ANN ARBOR	02/28/2013	0	1	2
LOS AMIGOS	625 HILTON BLVD.	ANN ARBOR	02/28/2013	0	0	2
LUCA'S CONEY ISLAND II	2469 WASHTENAW AVE.	YPSILANTI	02/11/2013	1	5	0
LURIE TERRACE	600 W. HURON	ANN ARBOR	02/06/2013	0	0	1
MACY'S	700 BRIARWOOD CIRCLE	ANN ARBOR	02/01/2013	0	0	0
MANCHESTER UNITED METHODIST CH	501 ANN ARBOR STREET	MANCHESTER	02/21/2013	1	0	0
MANCINO'S PIZZA & GRINDERS	1323 E. MICHIGAN AVENUE	SALINE	02/13/2013	0	0	0
McDONALD'S	2675 PLYMOUTH ROAD	ANN ARBOR	02/26/2013	0	0	1
McDONALD'S #3086	7847 E. MICHIGAN AVENUE	SALINE	02/06/2013	0	0	4
McDONALD'S #7790	101 BAKER ROAD	DEXTER	02/22/2013	0	0	4
MCDONALD'S RESTAURANT	4775 WASHTENAW AVE	ANN ARBOR	02/07/2013	0	0	5
MEDITERRANO	2900 S. STATE STREET #7	ANN ARBOR	02/22/2013	1	0	1
MERCY'S RESTAURANT	300 S. THAYER	ANN ARBOR	02/28/2013	0	0	1
METZGER'S GERMAN RESTAURANT	305 N. ZEEB ROAD	ANN ARBOR	02/13/2013	0	0	0
MIKI JAPANESE RESTAURANT	106 S. FIRST STREET	ANN ARBOR	02/04/2013	0	0	1
NEW CHINA	6889 STATE RD., STE D	SALINE	02/21/2013	0	0	0
NO THAI! 2	226 N. FOURTH ST.	ANN ARBOR	02/26/2013	0	1	0
NOODLES & COMPANY	320 S. STATE STREET	ANN ARBOR	02/26/2013	0	0	2
OCED SENIOR NUTRITION PROGRAM	7714 ANN ARBOR (@ COPELAND)	DEXTER	02/07/2013	0	0	1
OLGA'S KITCHEN	3399 PLYMOUTH RD	ANN ARBOR	02/21/2013	1	1	1
OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE	3173 OAK VALLEY DRIVE	ANN ARBOR	02/20/2013	0	0	0
PALM PALACE - PITTSFIELD	2370 CARPENTER RD	ANN ARBOR	02/13/2013	3	2	8
PANERA BREAD #876	3205 WASHTENAW	ANN ARBOR	02/12/2013	0	0	0
PEA POD INN	330 ECORSE ROAD	YPSILANTI	02/12/2013	0	0	1
PEABERRY BEAN & BEATS COMPANY	152 BARKER RD	WHITMORE LAKE	02/20/2013	0	0	0
PILARS TAMALES	2261 W. LIBERTY	ANN ARBOR	02/28/2013	0	1	0
PITA KABOB GRILL	619 E. WILLIAM	ANN ARBOR	02/14/2013	1	0	0
POTBELLY SANDWICH WORKS, LLC	3785 WASHTENAW AVE	ANN ARBOR	02/04/2013	0	0	0
POTBELLY SANDWICH WORKS, LLC	300 S. STATE STEET	ANN ARBOR	02/25/2013	0	0	0
PRICKLY PEAR CAFE	328 S. MAIN STREET	ANN ARBOR	02/05/2013	0	0	5
PRIMO FITNESS CENTER WCC -FITNESS CENTER	4833 EAST HURON RIVER	ANN ARBOR	02/13/2013	0	0	0
QDOBA MEXICAN GRILL	2252 S. MAIN STREET	ANN ARBOR	02/27/2013	0	0	0
RAVE MOTION PICTURE	4100 CARPENTER ROAD	YPSILANTI	02/12/2013	0	1	8
REAL SEAFOOD	341 S. MAIN STREET	ANN ARBOR	02/05/2013	0	0	3
RED ROBIN GOURMET BURGERS	3797 CARPENTER ROAD	YPSILANTI	02/05/2013	0	0	0
RICK'S AMERICAN CAFE	611 CHURCH STREET	ANN ARBOR	02/13/2013	0	0	0
RIO WRAP	1334 ANNA J STEPP	YPSILANTI	02/05/2013	0	0	1
ROMANO'S MACARONI GRILL #141	3010 S. STATE STREET	ANN ARBOR	02/22/2013	0	2	1
ROY'S SQUEEZE INN	2283 ELLSWORTH ROAD	YPSILANTI	02/19/2013	1	0	2
RUB BBQ & PUB AT ANN ARBOR	640 PACKARD	ANN ARBOR	02/13/2013	0	0	0
SALINE INN	434 E. MICHIGAN AVENUE	SALINE	02/04/2013	0	0	0
SAMOSA HOUSE	1785 WASHTENAW	YPSILANTI	02/25/2013	0	0	0
SCARLETT JR HIGH SCHOOL (Vending)	3300 LORRAINE	ANN ARBOR	02/26/2013	0	0	0
SILVIO'S ORGANIC PIZZERIA	715 N. UNIVERSITY STE #2	ANN ARBOR	02/07/2013	0	0	0
SMOOTHIE KING # 555	222 N. FOURTH AVE	ANN ARBOR	02/08/2013	0	0	4
ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI CHURCH	2150 FRIEZE AVENUE	ANN ARBOR	02/13/2013	0	0	0
ST. PAUL LUTHERAN CHURCH	420 W. LIBERTY	ANN ARBOR	02/19/2013	0	0	0
STARBUCKS COFFEE #2359	222 S. STATE STREET	ANN ARBOR	02/19/2013	0	0	0
STARBUCKS COFFEE #8793	300 S. MAIN STREET	ANN ARBOR	02/07/2013	0	0	0
STUCCHI'S	302 S. STATE STREET	ANN ARBOR	02/13/2013	0	0	1
SUBWAY	1478 ECORSE ROAD	YPSILANTI	02/19/2013	0	0	0
SUBWAY	1094 HURON RIVER DRIVE	YPSILANTI	02/27/2013	0	0	0
SUBWAY	3384 WASHTENAW	ANN ARBOR	02/27/2013	0	0	0
SUBWAY	2410 W. STADIUM BLVD	ANN ARBOR	02/06/2013	0	0	1
SUBWAY	3395 PLYMOUTH RD.	ANN ARBOR	02/26/2013	0	0	0
SUBWAY	1315 S. UNIVERSITY	ANN ARBOR	02/08/2013	0	0	0
SUBWAY @ WAL-MART	2515 ELLSWORTH RD.	YPSILANTI	02/19/2013	0	0	2
SUBWAY SANDWICHES & SALADS	902 S. STATE ST.	ANN ARBOR	02/05/2013	0	0	0
SUBWAY/PILOT TRAVEL #021	750 BAKER ROAD	DEXTER	02/04/2013	0	0	0
SUSHI.COM	715 N. UNIVERSITY	ANN ARBOR	02/07/2013	1	0	0
TACO BELL #1938	2280 W. STADIUM BLVD	ANN ARBOR	02/05/2013	0	0	0
TASTY GREEN CAFE	100 N. 5TH AVE, STE 125	ANN ARBOR	02/22/2013	0	0	0
TIAN CHU	613 E. WILLIAMS	ANN ARBOR	02/22/2013	0	0	3
TOWER INN CAFE	701 W. CROSS STREET	YPSILANTI	02/27/2013	0	0	5
UGLY MUG CAFE, YPSILANTI	317 W. CROSS STREET	YPSILANTI	02/19/2013	0	0	1
UMI SUSHI	3393 PLYMOUTH RD SUITE 200	ANN ARBOR	02/20/2013	0	0	0
UPTOWN CONEY ISLAND	3917 JACKSON ROAD	ANN ARBOR	02/05/2013	0	0	0
VARIETY FOODSERVICES	BORTZ HEALTH CARE	YPSILANTI	02/21/2013	0	0	0
VICTORIOUS LIFE CHURCH OF GOD	860 E CLARK RD.	YPSILANTI	02/19/2013	0	0	0
WAFEL SHOP, THE	113 E. LIBERTY ST.	ANN ARBOR	02/28/2013	0	0	0
WASHTENAW MILK & ICE CREAM	602 S. ASHLEY	ANN ARBOR	02/13/2013	0	0	0
WENDY'S	1655 PLYMOUTH ROAD	ANN ARBOR	02/19/2013	0	0	0
WESTSIDE UNITED METHODIST	900 S. SEVENTH STREET	ANN ARBOR	02/05/2013	0	0	0
WHITMORE LANES INC & CONEY	9455 MAIN STREET	WHITMORE LAKE	02/28/2013	1	0	0
WURST BAR (THE)	705 W. CROSS STREET	YPSILANTI	02/22/2013	0	0	8
YOGGIE'S FROZEN YOGURT	535 E LIBERTY	ANN ARBOR	02/07/2013	0	0	0
ZAMAAN CAFE	3580 PLYMOUTH RD	ANN ARBOR	02/13/2013	0	0	0
ZINGERMAN'S MAIL ORDER	610-640 PHOENIX DR.	ANN ARBOR	02/14/2013	0	0	2
ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH	1501 W. LIBERTY	ANN ARBOR	02/05/2013	0	0	0

Giving back: Dexter couple organizes 'Tornado Run' to benefit nonprofits

Wed, 6 Mar, 2013 9:11 a.m.

In the late afternoon of March 15, 2012, while hail pummeled my car and winds rattled the windows in my Saline office, a Category F3 tornado ripped through Dexter. It destroyed or damaged more than 200 homes, ripped massive trees out of the ground, and caused more than $9 million in damage. Dexter residents Bob and Katie Jazwinski were among the hardest hit, their home almost completely leveled.

Bob and Katie Jazwinski outside their house after the 2012 tornado.

AnnArbor.com File Photo

The family was unhurt, but they were emotionally shaken and needed help with housing and supplies. To their relief and gratitude, volunteers from the community and local nonprofit groups quickly showed up. The organization Poured-Out, which assists at disaster sites worldwide, helped clean up the Jazwinskis' property, and local fundraisers provided much-needed financial assistance.

One year later, their house and their lives rebuilt, the Jazwinskis want to show their appreciation for all the help they and so many others received. And as runners, track coaches, and hosts of Jazz Running Camps, they came up with a fitting way to do it. The result is the "Dexter F3.1 Tornado Run/Walk" at Hudson Mills Metropark on Friday, March 15.

The 5K run/walk is sponsored by Hudson Mills, Women In Motion and Jazz Running, with the goal, as the race brochure says, "of encouraging healthy lifestyles along with promoting fun & fitness through the enjoyment of running & walking." All proceeds will go to nonprofit organizations such as Poured-Out.

"They helped us so much after the tornado," Bob explained. "We wanted to provide a way for Dexter to give back."

The event begins at 7 p.m., with free park admission after 5 p.m. for participants. Everyone gets glow sticks, tornado T-shirts, and a coffee mug or beer glass just for taking part. Awards will be presented to the top finishers overall and in age groups. There will also be chances to win a free registration to the Jazz Running Camp, Huron Park annual stickers, Running Fit gift cards, and Women in Motion gear.

Bob reported that, as of March 1, they had registered nearly 300 people, including "many people that are not what you would call runners," but who had signed up anyway. He expects total attendance to be in the neighborhood of 500. I've signed up. How about joining us and making it 501 or more?

Join me at the Tornado Run! Register online at this link.

The Jazwinskis moved back into their rebuilt house on Feb. 7, after eleven months of living in a rental. "It was nice," Bob said of their temporary house, "but it wasn't a place we could call home. Now it's a mess back at the house, but it's an awesome mess to have." He is happy to report that the family is all healthy and doing well, including their latest addition, Sammi, born on Oct. 4.

Bonus: Click here for some video footage of the tornado from spectators at Hudson Mills that day. And hey, why let something like a little tornado interfere with our game of disc golf?

Jeff Jackson is a runner, cyclist, and student of Aikido who thinks tornados are cool, as long as they are far, far away. He writes the Fitness at 50 blog. He can be reached at jeff@fitnessat50.net.

High levels of arsenic found in some drinking water wells in Washtenaw County

Thu, 14 Feb, 2013 9:47 a.m.

When you hear the word “arsenic,” what comes to mind? Old apothecary jars? Rat poison? Perhaps Cary Grant’s dark comedy "Arsenic and Old Lace"?

Arsenic is a documented human carcinogen and is associated with increased rates of bladder cancer. Based on studies in other countries, longterm exposure to high levels of arsenic has also been associated with thickening and discoloration of the skin, stomach pain and nausea, and numbness in the hands and feet.

People can be exposed to arsenic through foods they eat, and the water they drink. Food such as rice and certain fruit juices can have high levels of arsenic, and some studies show that several fruit juices commercially sold may have elevated arsenic levels.

Bottled water and municipal (or “city”) water supplies are tested for arsenic on a routine basis. However, people who are served by private wells may not be aware of an arsenic problem, and may be exposed unsafe levels.

In 2012, the Washtenaw County Environmental Health office found 156 drinking water wells in the County with arsenic levels above the U.S. EPA level of 10 parts per billion (ppb).

Arsenic is a naturally occurring contaminant for the most part, and we first learned about the issue back in the late 1990s when arsenic was found in the Chelsea area while we were sampling for contamination from the Chelsea landfill. In 2004, when the federal government lowered the limit from 50 ppb to 10 ppb, Washtenaw County began requiring arsenic testing when a new or replacement water well is drilled, or when a home that is served by a well is sold.

In the beginning, we thought arsenic was related to certain bedrock formations in the northern and western portions of the County. However, arsenic has been found in pockets throughout the entire County.

Our office investigates these arsenic “hot spots.” Currently, we have been focusing on an area in York Township where several wells have tested above the recommended limit.

Education is the key in these circumstances, as many homeowners have a difficult time understanding the entire picture when faced with a well that has tested with an elevated level of arsenic. We provide information to home homeowners on options they may want to consider on addressing the problem, information on why the health standard of 10 ppb was established, health effects associated with consuming too much arsenic, and background on area well depth and locations of other elevated arsenic samples.

It’s estimated that about 5 percent of the wells in Washtenaw County have elevated levels of arsenic. Fortunately, there is good news in managing the problem.

Our office approves the use of treatment devices if the water tests below 50 ppb. So far, treatment devices that can remove arsenic have been found to be very successful. Reverse osmosis water treatment systems are removing 92 percent of the arsenic from drinking water supplies.

It is important that homeowners who have arsenic removal systems maintain their system according to manufacturer recommendations and re-sample the well for arsenic on a regular basis to assure their treatment system is still properly functioning. All arsenic treatment systems must be maintained, or they will lose their ability to remove arsenic.

Arsenic does not behave like many groundwater contaminants, so we can’t make assumptions based on what a neighbor has in their well. We have seen instances where one well will be arsenic free and a neighboring well, drilled into the same aquifer at the same depth, will have elevated arsenic. The levels appear to be associated with the type of minerals located in the exact area where a well is drilled, so it’s important that individual wells be tested.

Bottles for testing wells for arsenic are available at the Washtenaw County Environmental Health Offices located at 705 N. Zeeb Road in Scio Township. The cost for doing an arsenic test is $17 per sample.

Homeowners can also access County records on their well by going to the following web link and searching by address: http://gisapp1.ewashtenaw.org/publicaccess/.

For more information, or if you have a specific question or concern about your well water, please contact the Environmental Health office at 734-222-3800 or visit the website http://environmentalhealth.ewashtenaw.org.

Leon Moore is an administrator with the Public Health Department’s Washtenaw County Environmental Health Division. He can be reached at morel@ewashtenaw.org or 734-222-3848.

Make it easier being green in Washtenaw County: 2013 New Year's Resolutions

Tue, 8 Jan, 2013 8 p.m.

Arriving in the world just in time for 2013, Geethanjali Mathias and the rest of the children in Washtenaw County hope you will consider a green New Year’s resolution or two this year.

It really isn't always easy being green, but most of us try and most of us could do better. Maybe last year you got in the habit of trashing the recyclables, developed an addiction to swigging Evian all day or sleeping with the TV on, or you repeatedly drove to the next county to pick up the kids from gymnastics when it was soccer day. Whatever your transgressions against the environment in 2012, the keys to any lifestyle change are small, imperfect steps in a new direction.

Here are 15 New Year's resolutions for a greener 2013:

1. Plan ahead
Who hasn't run back to the grocery for a vital ingredient or intended to walk a few blocks, but run late and ended up driving anyway? Recycling is the most touted route to waste reduction, but a little forethought and preparation can arguably make more impact. Resolving this year to write out shopping lists, to set the alarm a few minutes earlier, or to stow a blanket in the car for cold mornings will cut down on wasted fuel. To proactively head off future wastefulness, make premeditated modifications to your regular activities like planting native flowers instead of grass in order to mow less often, upgrading to Energy Star appliances or relocating to a yoga studio within walking distance.

2. Refuse plastic bags
Want to help marine life, quell pollution and make a statement about your commitment to the environment, all while shopping? Decide to forgo plastic bags from now on. Americans use about 100 billion shopping bags annually. Less than 1 percent are recycled, and the rest leach contaminants into soil and water for centuries as they break down. Be prepared the next time you are offered, "Paper or plastic?" by storing durable, reusable totes in the trunk, and carry a compact version in your backpack or purse.

3. Buy sustainable stuff
What you put in your shopping bags has a far greater potential to shrink the size of your carbon footprint than the type of bag you choose. One of the best ways to overhaul a wasteful, consumer-driven lifestyle is to commit to buying locally produced and organic food, biodegradable household products and items with the least amount of excess packaging. Package-free staples like flour, rice or sugar can be bought by the pound; farmers' markets supply seasonal produce year round; and plain vinegar effectively disinfects and cleans without chemical residues. Finding greener products takes a little extra effort, cash, and research, but short of giving up your car, the cumulative impact of a year's worth of green purchasing packs a bigger, greener punch than any other personal choice.

4. Just say NO to bottled water
Contrary to the marketing hype of the bottled water industry, filtered tap water is the safest and purest water around. Washtenaw County's tap water is high-quality and municipal water systems are highly regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), while bottled water is not. Additionally, in the U.S. one and a half million barrels of oil are squandered annually producing the bottles themselves, not including the fuel wasted transporting them. Unless you were diligent about recycling bottles, every water bottle you ever gulped from is still around somewhere, perhaps swirling in the ocean or buried in the landfill. To make refillable, stainless bottles convenient, keep one at home, one at the office, and another in the car, and add a filter to the tap or keep a pitcher in each fridge.

5. Brew shade grown coffee
Drinking coffee is good for the environment when the beans come from coffee grown under the rainforest canopy. Tropical forests are being cleared to make way for monoculture at an alarming rate. Shade grown coffee farms produce coffee in the understory of an intact rainforest, providing habitat for a rich diversity of species, especially migratory birds. A Mexican study found close to 200 species of birds on shade coffee farms, while sun-coffee farms had less than 10. Be sure to use a travel mug!

6. Quit smoking
A resolution to stop smoking not only improves your health and the air quality in the immediate atmosphere, but also protects the environment. Anyone who has collected litter from a park or beach will attest to the ubiquitousness of cigarette butts. Made of plastic and saturated with toxins, cigarette filters percolate chemicals into the water for decades. In addition, tobacco farming is water-intensive, plants are soaked in pesticides, and most tobacco is cured using high heat from burning wood or fossil fuel. Smokefree.gov offers a host of tools to help make quitting successful, including apps, peer and professional support, and information about ways to suppress cravings.

7. Go on a diet
No list of resolutions is complete without the hackneyed pledge to lose weight. To the more than half of the country who are already struggling to slim down: dieting is good for the environment! Obviously when less food is eaten, less energy is spent growing and transporting it, but more fuel is also used to transport heavier passengers than lighter ones. Due to weight gain, cars burned a billion extra gallons of gasoline annually between 1960 to 2002. Even the "Jack Sprats" among us can curtail their overindulgence by resolving to dine on vegetarian cuisine at least once a week.

8. Skip the drive-through
Don't worry, you needn't abstain from French fries for an entire year. Rather than waste fuel idling near the drive-through window while your burger is flipped, park the car and purchase inside at the counter. If the average wait for a milkshake is 159 seconds, every year Americans burn 50 million gallons going nowhere, waiting at fast food joints!

9. Carpool or bike to work at least once a week
Unless you regularly criss-cross the country in a private aircraft, driving less this year is the number one way to curtail your contribution to climate change. The average round trip commute is 32 miles, so deciding now to carpool to work on Tuesdays is a good start. The University of Michigan's GreenRide and the Ann Arbor Transportation Authority's (AATA) VanRide programs can connect you with potential carpoolers. Can't handle sharing your Prius with smelly coworkers? Commit to bike to work as soon as the mercury hits 40 degrees or only run errands once a week.

10. Unplug everything
Rid your home of vampire power in 2013. No need to grab the garlic; the vampires in this case are electronic chargers, gadgets and appliances that continue to suck energy from the socket even when a device is idle. A miniscule amount of electricity is drawn by a single vampire, but most homes average about 40, consuming 10 percent of the total household power. So, if you're not using it, unplug it! Make a new habitat of unplugging all electric items as soon as you are finished with them — microwaves, the oven, coffee pots, video games, TVs, lamps, etc. — everything except devices that must run continuously like the refrigerator. For computers and related peripherals like scanners or printers, use a power strip that switches off when the computer is in standby mode.

11. Stop the bleeding
Americans are blessed with an abundant flow of inexpensive electricity and water. Without a thought we run water while shaving, warm and cool our homes while we are away, and luxuriate in the shower. Start the New Year with a pledge to green your daily routine by making small changes that save energy and water. Invest in a smart thermostat that learns your patterns and adjusts to save energy or set an older thermostat to 68 degrees in the winter and 78 degrees in the summer. Turn off the tap whenever possible, take five-minute showers, wash clothes in cold water and run the dishwasher only when full. The savings from these modifications can be substantial.

12. Go paperless
Today virtually any activity that once required paper can be accomplished electronically, toilet paper being a notable exception. Start the New Year by switching to direct deposit, online billing and statements, and opt for the digital version of magazines, catalogs and books when possible. Instead of printing photos and documents share them instantly via the cloud. Every year 87,500,000 trees could remain standing if Americans used half as much copy paper.

13. Start a compost pile
Washtenaw County makes disposing of most recyclables fairly effortless — just rinse and toss them in the bin. Composting your organic waste is just as easy once you are in the habit. Not sure how to start the pile? Washtenaw County's Solid Waste Program offers instructions online and workshops for groups. Composting keeps methane and leachate out of landfills, and come spring your plentiful supply of organic fertilizer may inspire a garden or two!

14. Volunteer for conservation or sign up for planned monthly giving
We all hope the world will be better in 2013, but volunteers make it happen. Count toads for Natural Areas Preservation, clean ovens for Habitat for Humanity's ReStore program, pull garlic mustard with the Southeast Michigan Land Conservancy, record your "wild" observations for Nature Abounds, or grow tomatoes for the needy at Edible Avalon. Can't spare a minute? Enroll in planned monthly giving for a deserving conservation group, and give all year without a second thought.

15. Travel greener
When traveling this year try out some greener alternatives to flying. Take the train for day trips, and for vacations, take a roadtrip with your family packed in the backseat. The perfect resolution for frequent flyers: choose only direct flights this year. If you book in advance, a non-stop option is almost always available for domestic flights, and since half of the carbon emissions are generated during takeoff and landing, it's worth a few extra bucks or a slightly delayed departure.

Most of these resolutions involve a small sacrifice, but the momentary hardship of choosing to be green over the convenience of the alternative reaffirms the value of the earth's finite resources and a personal commitment to caring for them. As your green New Year's resolutions evolve into habits, let's hope the feelings of discomfort in a (temporarily) frosty car, of missing that dearly-loved mid-winter zucchini, of being squeezed into the back-seat with strangers, or of loitering at the airport for a direct flight, will begin to subside.

If the satisfaction of environmental responsibility isn't motivating enough to compel you to adopt a few greener habits this year, fortunately many green decisions provide an inherent financial incentive. Take on just one green resolution in 2013. Set aside the savings from skipping bottled water, not smoking, or carpooling weekly, and by 2014 you may be considering a few more green strategies!

If you slip up a bit, don't give up, and here's wishing you a Happy New Year!

Restaurant inspections for Washtenaw County in November 2012

Thu, 3 Jan, 2013 12:28 p.m.

Michigan Adopts New Language for Restaurant Inspections

The State of Michigan has updated its Food Law and adopted the Michigan Modified Food Code. The most noticeable change is in the terminology used for violations in restaurant inspections. Previously, violations were Critical or Non-Critical. As of Oct. 1, they are categorized as Priority, Priority Foundation or Core.

Priority violations are the most serious. Correcting these eliminates or reduces a problem directly associated with foodborne illness. Examples include improper food temperatures and lack of hand washing. Priority violations were previously Critical violations.

Priority Foundation violations are problems that can lead to a Priority violation. Correcting these problems may keep Priority violations from occurring. Examples include not having am appropriate food thermometer, not having sanitizer test strips and not having soap or paper towel at a hand sink. The Priority Foundation category is made up of violations that were previously called Critical or Non-Critical Violations.

Core violations are related to general sanitation and facility maintenance. Core violations were previously Non-Critical violations. Examples include dirty floors and improper facility lighting.

Priority and Priority Foundation violations must be corrected immediately at the time of inspection or within 10 days. Core violations must be corrected within 90 days of the inspection.

Where can I see the inspection results?

We post restaurant inspections monthly on Ann Arbor.com. The inspections posted were completed the month prior (i.e. January inspections are posted in February). You will now see three categories of violations instead of two. They will be designed as Priority, Priority Foundation and Core violations.

You can also search our online database of all restaurant inspections and detailed reports. Click here for access to all Washtenaw County restaurant inspections!

How frequent are inspections?

Routine inspections take place twice per year (or once per year if the business is only open seasonally). Routine inspections are typically unannounced. However, when there are changes to the Food Code or Food Law, like those that took place Oct. 1, the first routine inspection is scheduled. Key restaurant staff must be present so the Sanitarian can explain how the changes impact the establishment’s operations. The number of violations observed often decreases when inspections are announced. This may explain why the recent inspections appear somewhat better than usual.

What if I have a complaint?

Environmental Health responds to general restaurant complaints as well as foodborne illness complaints. Please call our office at 734-222-3800 to file a complaint or to report a suspected foodborne illness.

November Report

Inspection Summary Report
Establishment	Address	City	Inspection Date	P Cnt	Pf Cnt	Core
ANN ARBOR MARRIOTT COURTYARD	3205 BOARDWALK	ANN ARBOR	11/16/2012	0	0	1
ANN ARBOR PRESCHOOL & EARLY CHILDHOOD	2725 BOARDWALK	ANN ARBOR	11/05/2012	0	0	0
ARBY'S ROAST BEEF #6325	1189 DEXTER STREET	MILAN	11/08/2012	0	0	3
ARCTIC BREAKWAY	501 COLISEUM DR.	CHELSEA	11/27/2012	1	1	2
AUBREE'S PIZZERA & TAVERN	2120 - 2122 WHITTAKER ROAD	YPSILANTI	11/08/2012	0	0	0
AYSE'S CAFE	1703 PLYMOUTH ROAD	ANN ARBOR	11/13/2012	1	0	1
BASKIN ROBBINS	2731 PLYMOUTH ROAD	ANN ARBOR	11/09/2012	0	0	0
BEARCLAW COFFEE	12855 EAST OLD US. 12 #8	CHELSEA	11/08/2012	0	0	0
BENNY'S FAMILY DINING	1952 S. INDUSTRIAL HIGHWAY	ANN ARBOR	11/01/2012	0	0	0
BIGGBY COFFEE	3354 WASHTENAW AVE	ANN ARBOR	11/09/2012	0	0	0
BIGGBY COFFEE STORE 291 (ATOS, LLC)	1171 S. MAIN ST. STE # 1	CHELSEA	11/23/2012	0	0	0
BIWAKO SUSHI (QUALITY JAPANESE FOOD INC)	2276 S. MAIN STREET	ANN ARBOR	11/20/2012	0	0	0
BLUE NILE	221 E. WASHINGTON	ANN ARBOR	11/08/2012	0	0	0
BRUEGGER'S BAGEL BAKERY	2260 S. MAIN STREET	ANN ARBOR	11/26/2012	1	0	4
BUBBLE ISLAND	1220 S. UNIVERSITY	ANN ARBOR	11/13/2012	0	0	2
CALVARY BIBLE CHURCH	8318 CARPENTER RD	YPSILANTI	11/07/2012	0	0	0
CARLYLE BAR & GRILL	3660 JACKSON RD	ANN ARBOR	11/15/2012	2	0	4
CEDARS OF DEXTER (THE)	411 CEDARS LANE	DEXTER	11/02/2012	0	0	0
CELEBRATION CELLARS	210 S. FIRST STREET	ANN ARBOR	11/09/2012	0	0	0
CHILI'S BAR & GRILL	3795 WASHTENAW	ANN ARBOR	11/29/2012	0	0	0
CHINA GARDEN	1165 S. MAIN STREET	CHELSEA	11/09/2012	1	2	0
CHINA KING	3901 JACKSON RD	ANN ARBOR	11/05/2012	0	0	2
CHUCK E. CHEESE'S #334	2655 OAK VALLEY DRIVE	ANN ARBOR	11/13/2012	0	1	0
CLEARY'S PUB	113 S. MAIN STREET	CHELSEA	11/15/2012	0	0	0
COLLEGE INN PIZZERIA	505 W. CROSS	YPSILANTI	11/07/2012	0	0	5
CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY SODEXO DINING SERV	4090 GEDDES RD- THE NEST	ANN ARBOR	11/01/2012	0	0	0
CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY SOXEDO DINNING SERV	4090 GEDDES ROAD, DINING HALL	ANN ARBOR	11/01/2012	0	0	0
CONTINENTAL CANTEEN	ACH SALINE - LOC 1 BASEMENT	SALINE	11/27/2012	0	0	0
CONTINENTAL CANTEEN	ACH- SALINE LOC 5 STOCKROOM	SALINE	11/27/2012	0	0	0
CONTINENTAL CANTEEN	ACH-SALINE H 19	SALINE	11/27/2012	0	0	0
CONTINENTAL CANTEEN	ACH SALINE - OD 16	SALINE	11/27/2012	0	0	0
CONTINENTAL CANTEEN	ACH SALINE WAREHOUSE	SALINE	11/27/2012	0	0	1
CONWAY FREIGHT- STERLING SERVICES	2211 OLD EARHART RD.	ANN ARBOR	11/15/2012	0	0	1
COTTAGE INN PIZZA - CARRYOUT	4860 WASHTENAW AVE, SUITE A	ANN ARBOR	11/13/2012	0	0	3
DARCY'S CART V2	2108 HALL AVE	ANN ARBOR	11/28/2012	0	0	1
DCH CATERING	223 E. MAIN STREET	MANCHESTER	11/20/2012	0	0	0
DEXTER KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS	8265 DEXTER-CHELSEA	DEXTER	11/08/2012	0	0	0
DOG DAYS III	2515 JACKSON	ANN ARBOR	11/13/2012	0	0	0
DOMINO'S PIZZA #1117 / T & R PIZZA	4910 WASHTENAW	ANN ARBOR	11/09/2012	0	1	2
DOUBLE EAGLE CONEY ISLAND	533 W. CROSS STREET	YPSILANTI	11/13/2012	0	0	6
EARLE	121 W. WASHINGTON	ANN ARBOR	11/15/2012	0	0	0
EAT, CATERING AND SCRATCH KITCHEN	1906 PACKARD	ANN ARBOR	11/06/2012	0	0	0
Inspection Summary Report
Establishment	Address	City	Inspection Date	P Cnt	Pf Cnt	Core
EAT, LLC #2 (MOBILE)	1906 PACKARD ROAD	ANN ARBOR	11/30/2012	0	0	0
EMU BANQUET, SERVICE KITCHEN & DISHROOM	900 OAKWOOD BLVD.	YPSILANTI	11/14/2012	1	0	5
EMU CATERING PRODUCTION KITCHEN	900 OAKWOOD BLVD.	YPSILANTI	11/14/2012	1	0	4
FAMILY CHICKEN, INC.	510 W. MICHIGAN AVENUE	YPSILANTI	11/20/2012	0	0	0
FIREWEED KITCHEN @ JEFFERSON MARKET	609 W JEFFERSON	ANN ARBOR	11/14/2012	0	0	0
FORTIS ACADEMY	3875 GOLFSIDE	YPSILANTI	11/19/2012	0	0	0
FRANKS RESTAURANT	334 MAYNARD	ANN ARBOR	11/06/2012	1	0	1
GJI'S SWEET SHOPPE	3368 WASHTENAW AVE	ANN ARBOR	11/16/2012	0	1	0
GODAIKO JAPANESE RESTAURANT	3105 OAK VALLEY DRIVE	ANN ARBOR	11/28/2012	0	0	0
GOOGLE-CONTINENTAL DINING SERVICES	401 E. LIBERTY ST	ANN ARBOR	11/07/2012	0	0	0
GREAT SHANGHAI	2541 JACKSON ROAD	ANN ARBOR	11/27/2012	0	0	0
HILTON GARDEN INN ANN ARBOR	1401 BRIARWOOD CIRCLE DR	ANN ARBOR	11/29/2012	0	0	0
HOMMUS EXPRESS	529 E. LIBERTY	ANN ARBOR	11/08/2012	0	1	2
HUNGRY HOWIE'S/MILAN PIZZA	6 W. MAIN STREET	MILAN	11/14/2012	0	0	0
JAZZY VEGGIE	108 S. MAIN STREET	ANN ARBOR	11/02/2012	0	0	1
JOE'S JAVA	5333 MCAULEY DR	YPSILANTI	11/28/2012	0	0	0
JUNGLE JAVA	3900 JACKSON RD UNIT 1	ANN ARBOR	11/26/2012	0	0	1
KING ELEMENTARY	3800 WALDENWOOD	ANN ARBOR	11/01/2012	0	0	0
KNOX PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH	2065 S WAGNER	ANN ARBOR	11/06/2012	0	0	0
LAKEWOOD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL	344 GRALAKE	ANN ARBOR	11/07/2012	0	0	0
LINCOLN CHILDS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL	7300 BEMIS ROAD	YPSILANTI	11/15/2012	0	0	0
LINCOLN MIDDLE SCHOOL	8744 WHITTAKER ROAD	YPSILANTI	11/15/2012	0	1	1
LOGAN ELEMENTARY	2685 TRAVER ROAD	ANN ARBOR	11/19/2012	0	0	0
LOYAL ORDER OF THE MOOSE #1253-ANN ARBOR	10160 JACKSON RD	CHELSEA	11/13/2012	0	0	0
LUCKY KITCHEN	1753 PLYMOUTH ROAD	ANN ARBOR	11/13/2012	0	1	1
MACK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL	920 MILLER	ANN ARBOR	11/13/2012	0	0	2
MADRAS MASALA	330 MAYNARD	ANN ARBOR	11/08/2012	0	0	4
MANCHESTER BAKERY, INC.	118 E. MAIN STREET	MANCHESTER	11/13/2012	0	0	0
MICKEY PIZZA	9230 MAIN STREET	WHITMORE LAKE	11/01/2012	0	0	0
MILAN CONEY ISLAND & RESTAURANT	1152 DEXTER	MILAN	11/21/2012	1	1	0
MR. PIZZA	800 ECORSE ROAD	YPSILANTI	11/28/2012	0	1	1
NEW TESTAMENT BAPTIST CHURCH	1230 W. MICHIGAN AVE	YPSILANTI	11/14/2012	0	0	0
NICK'S	5333 MCAULEY DR.	ANN ARBOR	11/20/2012	0	0	0
NICK'S ORIGINAL HOUSE OF PANCAKES	3030 LOHR ROAD	ANN ARBOR	11/19/2012	0	0	0
NO THAI! 3	1745 PLYMOUTH RD	ANN ARBOR	11/14/2012	0	0	0
OCED AT ANN ARBOR CHURCH OF CHRIST	2500 S. MAIN ST.	ANN ARBOR	11/02/2012	0	0	0
OCED SENIOR NUTRITION PROGRAM	2025 E. CLARK ROAD	YPSILANTI	11/20/2012	0	0	0
OLD TOWN TAVERN	122 W. LIBERTY	ANN ARBOR	11/29/2012	0	0	0
PATTENGILL ELEMENTARY	2100 CRESTLAND	ANN ARBOR	11/14/2012	0	0	0
PINKBERRY BRIARWOOD	100 BRIARWOOD CIRCLE, KI-34	ANN ARBOR	11/07/2012	0	0	0
POPEYE'S	200 BAKER RD	DEXTER	11/07/2012	0	0	4
REDIES CENTER FOR REHAB & HEALTHY LIVING	440 W RUSSELL ST	SALINE	11/20/2012	0	0	0
Inspection Summary Report
Establishment	Address	City	Inspection Date	P Cnt	Pf Cnt	Core
REGIONAL CAREER TECHNICAL CENTER @ ARDIS	2100 ELLSWORTH	YPSILANTI	11/08/2012	3	0	2
ROBERTO CLEMENTE SCHOOL	4377 TEXTILE ROAD	YPSILANTI	11/05/2012	0	0	0
RON'S ROADSIDE BBQ	5850 PONTIAC TRAIL	ANN ARBOR	11/29/2012	0	0	0
ROOS ROAST ESPRESSO CART	1155 ROSEWOOD SUITE B	ANN ARBOR	11/26/2012	0	0	0
SAIGON GARDEN	1220 S. UNIVERSITY	ANN ARBOR	11/13/2012	1	0	5
SALEM ELEMENTARY	7806 SALEM ROAD	NORTHVILLE	11/29/2012	0	0	0
SCARLETT JR HIGH CAFETERIA	3300 LORRAINE STREET	ANN ARBOR	11/07/2012	0	0	2
SEITZ TAVERN	110 W. MIDDLE STREET	CHELSEA	11/06/2012	0	0	0
SOUTH ARBOR ACADEMY	8200 CARPENTER ROAD	YPSILANTI	11/27/2012	0	0	0
ST. JOSEPH PARISH HALL	3470 DOVER STREET	DEXTER	11/21/2012	0	0	0
ST. MATHEWS UNITED METH CHURCH	1344 BORGSTROM	YPSILANTI	11/08/2012	0	0	0
STARBUCKS COFFEE #2342	3597 WASHTENAW	ANN ARBOR	11/29/2012	0	0	0
STARBUCKS COFFEE #2482	1214 S. UNIVERSITY AVENUE	ANN ARBOR	11/13/2012	0	0	0
STAR'S CAFE	2575 JACKSON ROAD	ANN ARBOR	11/26/2012	0	0	0
STEAK-N-SHAKE #343	4120 ELLSWORTH ROAD	YPSILANTI	11/09/2012	2	0	7
STONEY CREEK UNITED METHODIST	8635 STONEY CREEK ROAD	YPSILANTI	11/13/2012	0	0	0
SUSHI CAFE	854 BRIARWOOD CIRCLE	ANN ARBOR	11/19/2012	0	0	0
TACO BELL # 3836	3860 S. STATE STREET	ANN ARBOR	11/06/2012	0	0	0
TACO BELL/KFC #22095	1206 DEXTER ROAD	MILAN	11/05/2012	0	0	3
TAQUERIA LA CASITA	2866 WASHTENAW	YPSILANTI	11/02/2012	0	0	0
TGI FRIDAYS	3015 LOHR ROAD	ANN ARBOR	11/06/2012	0	0	0
THAI-THAI (BY S & K KITCHEN)	2612 WASHTENAW	YPSILANTI	11/07/2012	1	2	0
THOMPSON'S BAR & GRILL	10655 W. MICHIGAN AVENUE	SALINE	11/07/2012	0	0	0
TOWNE PLACE SUITES	1301 BRIARWOOD CIRCLE DR.	ANN ARBOR	11/29/2012	0	0	0
TRI-COUNTY SPORTSMEN'S LEAGUE	8640 MOON ROAD	SALINE	11/13/2012	0	0	0
TROPICAL SMOOTHIE CAFE'	607 E LIBERTY ST	ANN ARBOR	11/06/2012	0	0	0
UNIVERSITY COMMONS	817 ASA GRAY DRIVE	ANN ARBOR	11/14/2012	0	0	0
VFW #2408 C. ROBERT ARVIN POST	616 WEST MICHIGAN AVE	YPSILANTI	11/05/2012	0	0	0
VILLAGE KITCHEN	241 N. MAPLE ROAD	ANN ARBOR	11/01/2012	0	0	0
WEBER'S BAKERY BANQUET, STOREROOM	3050 JACKSON ROAD	ANN ARBOR	11/15/2012	0	0	0
WEBER'S INN HABITAT/CABANA	3050 JACKSON ROAD	ANN ARBOR	11/13/2012	0	0	0
WENDY'S	1640 COMMERCE PARK DR	CHELSEA	11/15/2012	0	0	0
WENDY'S	3100 BOARDWALK	ANN ARBOR	11/01/2012	0	0	0
WENDY'S	760 E. MICHIGAN AVENUE	SALINE	11/29/2012	0	0	0
WETZEL'S PRETZELS	100 BRIARWOOD CIRCLE K108	ANN ARBOR	11/30/2012	0	0	0
WISE GUYS	1232 PACKARD	ANN ARBOR	11/01/2012	0	0	0
WOLVERINE STATE BREWING COMPANY LLC	2019 W. STADIUM BLVD. STE 103	ANN ARBOR	11/27/2012	0	0	0
YOTSUBA JAPANESE RESTAURANT	2222 HOGBACK ROAD	ANN ARBOR	11/27/2012	1	0	1
YPSILANTI MASONIC ASSOC	5752 WHITTAKER ROAD	YPSILANTI	11/09/2012	0	0	0
ZAMMAN CAFE	865 EISENHOWER PKWY.	ANN ARBOR	11/02/2012	0	0	4
ZINGERMAN'S EVENTS ON FOURTH	415 N. FIFTH AVENUE	ANN ARBOR	11/07/2012	1	0	3

Cataract laser surgery offers significant benefits to seniors

Mon, 17 Dec, 2012 5:57 a.m.

Dr. Norbert Czajkowski with the Fraser Eye Care Center

After more than three years hosting our weekly radio program Everything Elderly, this past weekend was the final show. Co-host Sheila Doeden and I, and Senior Helpers, have decided to refocus our time and financial resources on other community support activities. Nonetheless, we will miss the program and the sharing of local resources for seniors.

For our final show, we were pleased to have Dr. Norbert Czajkowski, the director and chief surgeon of the Fraser Eye Care Center and the Laser Institute of Michigan. Dr. Czajkowski's credentials also include director of the Michigan Center for Out-Patient Ocular Surgery and the Eye Care Center of Port Huron.

Cataracts are a common problem for Dr. Czajkowski's elderly patients. We learned cataracts are the condition when the lens in the eye becomes dense and cloudy, directly impacting vision. While there are varying causes of cataracts, surgery can usually solve the problem.

Surgery for cataracts involves removal of the cataract, which can be accomplished using different methods. Dr. Czajkowski's eye center offers the newest technology, laser surgery which was FDA approved just this year. His clinic is one of only three in the state offering this advanced technique. He has already completed more than 200 cases.

Dr. Czajkowski stated, "This surgery is very exciting, it is so much better and much easier on the eye structure." With the laser surgery, there is a 95 percent probability of not needing glasses for distance after the surgery (glasses may still necessary for reading).

We learned about Macular Degeneration and the treatment options. With this condition, the retina degenerates as cells die off. The latest treatment approach involves an injection in the back of the eye.

Diabetes can also affect vision. With diabetes, the lens in the eye can swell or contract and may actually cause cataracts. There are effective treatments to control the risk. You should visit a retina specialist if you have any concerns.

To hear this 13-minute discussion, click the audio link:

Everything Elderly 1215 Dr Czajkowski.mp3">

To get in touch with Dr. Czajkowski or the Fraser Eye Care Center or the Eye Care Center of Port Huron, call 586-296-7250 or access the websites frasereye.com or porthuroneye.com.

Mary Bohn with ProMedica Total Rehab Services

Photos by Sheila Doeden

Mary Bohn joined our discussion next. Mary is the director of ProMedica Total Rehab Services in Lenawee County, supporting two ProMedica hospitals, Bixby in Adrian and Herrick in Tecumseh.

ProMedica Total Rehab provides their therapy services wherever needed, in the hospital, senior care facilities or at home. These services include physical, occupational and speech therapy. Their care encompasses pediatric to geriatric, and as Mary stated, "Just about any injury you can think of, we can handle."

They help many seniors recover from strokes, with services including stroke support groups. They work with the elderly that have balance disorders providing vestibular therapy to lessen the risk of falls. Their Fitness is Ageless program is an exercise program geared to those 50 and older.

Total Rehab helps those with arthritis deal with back and neck discomfort through specific exercises to ease the pain and regain mobility and function for everyday activities. They also work with seniors dealing with urinary incontinence using appropriate exercises to help combat this condition.

Most services are covered by Medicare or major medical insurance. Initiating therapy services simply requires a physician referral. During the first visit, there is an extensive evaluation and a personalized treatment plan is developed. The length of treatment can be as short as one visit but more typically lasts up to one month (with two or three visits a week). The treatment plan may also include a home exercise program.

Mary is rightly proud of their customer survey results, with 90 percent of their clients rating Total Rehab as excellent for overall quality of care. Mary shared how their patients and therapists get to know each other quite well, "This is part of the success of their program."

To listen to this 13-minute talk, click the audio link:

Everything Elderly 1215 Mary Bohn.mp3">

To get in touch with Mary Bohn or ProMedica Total Rehab Services, call 517-265-0293 or visit their website promedica.org.

Alan Caldwell and Sheila Doeden co-own and co-manage Senior Helpers, providing in-home care services, primarily to the elderly. Both can be contacted at homecareexcellence@seniorhelpers.com, or at 734-927-3111.

Tips for stress-free holidays

Thu, 13 Dec, 2012 2:15 p.m.

The following content was published on the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center's blog, mCancertalk.org, (a terrific resource!) and is republished here with permission and thanks. Wishing my readers joyous holidays!

From Thanksgiving to New Year's Day, the holiday scramble can be daunting even under the best of circumstances. But people coping with cancer face different stresses. Here are some tips from patients, parents, survivors and social workers at the U-M Comprehensive Cancer Center on how to make the best of the season.

Delegate: Whether you typically cook a big holiday meal for a dozen guests, or a feast for your small family, enlist family members and guests to help cook the main course, side dishes and desserts. Someone else's latkes might not be as good as the ones you make, but will still taste delicious.

Communicate: Talk to family and friends about their expectations for the holidays, and let them know your needs. Find out what's most important to children. Together, you can set expectations for what is do-able, and what isn't, such as limiting visits or cutting back on seasonal decorations.

Pick and choose: What traditions mean the most to you? Consider letting go of the ones lower down on your list. It may be difficult to make changes, but being selective can help prevent exhaustion and make the activities you maintain more enjoyable.

Just say no: Setting limits is especially important. It's okay to say "no" to cookie exchanges, parties and difficult relatives.

Plan a restful holiday: Make changes in your routine that create time for you to rest or relax. Instead of going to parties, enjoy lower-key activities, like watching special television programs at home or taking quiet drives to look at holiday lights.

Appreciate (don't emulate) Norman Rockwell: Recognize that the perfect holiday is an unrealistic expectation and accept that the holidays may be emotionally difficult. People often see holidays as markers in time, triggering reflections on past losses and hopes for the future. If you find yourself struggling with depression, consider seeking out a social worker, therapist or clergy member for counsel. Give back: Bring a little more meaning to your holiday season by helping others. Volunteering or making a contribution can be especially fulfilling for those who are beyond treatment.

Shop smart:

- Skip the crowds and shop at home in your bathrobe. Internet and catalog shopping offer convenient options for gift-giving.

- Consider simple, homemade gifts - and the key word is "simple!"

- Consider cutting down on the number of gifts you typically give; talk to your friends and family to let them know that you're just not up to it this year.

- Delegate the shopping to someone else. Make a list and ask a friend or family member to pick up the necessary gifts while they're out running their own errands.

These are just some of the tips and techniques that can bring relief — what helps you get through the holidays?

More resources:

Coping with Cancer during the Holidays

Questions & Answers about Coping with Cancer during the Holidays

Coping with Cancer during the Holidays

Coping During the Holidays: Answers to Common Questions

Caregivers: How to Handle the Holidays

Caregiving During Holidays and Special Occasions

Betsy de Parry is the author of Adventures In Cancer Land. Find her on Facebook or email her.

White nose syndrome: A frightening prospect for bats in Washtenaw County

Wed, 12 Dec, 2012 9:01 a.m.

Mary Mathias is a Media Outreach Coordinator for Washtenaw County, reporting on environmental topics for NPR’s “Issues of the Environment” program on WEMU 89.1 and AnnArbor.com. She can be reached at mathiasm@ewashtenaw.org.

Macabre superstitions have given bats a shuddersome reputation. Dark, ominous, and spooky, they are iconic emblems of Halloween, but according to the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) our fears are unfounded. Rather than fear bats we should be afraid for them.

White Nose Syndrome (WNS) — a fatal fungal infection that decimates bat colonies during hibernation — is likely to arrive in Michigan sometime this winter. Although no infected bats have been detected in the state so far, WNS was discovered in Ohio bats earlier this year, less than 150 miles from Washtenaw County. Diseased bats were also found in Ontario, Canada in 2010.

With WNS on our doorstep, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment (MDNRE) is asking Michigan residents to report any encounters with bats that are showing symptoms of WNS or behaving oddly. Here's what to look for:

flying in the daytime during winter
difficulty flying
white fuzz on the face or wings
six or more dead or dying bats near a hibernaculum, such as a cave or mine

Indiana bat (Myotis sodalis) Illustration by Mary Mathias The Indiana bat is the only endangered mammal in Washtenaw County. The advent of the WNS epidemic threatens to extirpate Indiana bats from Michigan, and they may become extinct.

Observations should be reported online or called in to the MDNRE Wildlife Disease Laboratory at 517-336-5030.

In addition, the human introduction of the G. destructans fungus which causes WNS is well documented and is believed to have initiated the WNS outbreak. Therefore, Michigan residents and visitors are advised stay out of caves, mines, or other caverns where bats may be hibernating to avoid inadvertently transmitting the epidemic. At this time the biosecurity of bat hibernacula is the only feasible control measure, and there are no known safe or effective treatments for WNS.

The USFWS is calling WNS the worst wildlife epidemic in U.S. history. The disease was first discovered in New York in 2006 and quickly spread to nearby states. Since then, the USFWS estimates that close to seven million bats have died.

When WNS invades Michigan, it will cripple bat populations in Washtenaw County and potentially extirpate several species from the state. Unless a cure is found, uncommon or endangered species are at risk of extinction, and even the most common species are in jeopardy.

Michigan is home to nine species of bats, eight of which inhabit Washtenaw County. The big brown bat (Eptesicus fuscus) is the most abundant species in southeast Michigan, where it is commonly observed flapping in the twilight.

As winter approaches, falling temperatures prompt these bats to migrate in search of places to hibernate, like caves, abandoned mines or attics. It appears that the big brown bat’s affinity for warm buildings rather than caves may grant some protection from the disease, since fewer individuals tend to be snuggled together in one place. Perhaps big brown bats will be able to hold on until a cure is found.

On the other hand, researchers fear the little brown bat (Myotis lucifugus) — an abundant species in other parts of Michigan and one of the most common bats in the United States — could suffer a population collapse in less than 20 years, with a high probability of extinction within 65 years. Historically little brown bats tend to hibernate in cave-dwelling colonies with up to half a million other bats, increasing the likelihood of contact with infected individuals.

Fortunately, the latest research offers a glimmer of hope for this species. Little brown bats appear to be changing their social behavior, and the individuals that remain are now often observed roosting alone instead of in dense clusters.

There is also hope that several of types of solitary or non-colonial bats that have smaller populations in Michigan might weather the epidemic. Three species of tree-dwelling vesper bats, the eastern red bat (Lasiurus borealis), the hoary bat (Lasiurus cinereus) and the silver-haired bat (Lasionycteris noctivagans) may be afforded some protection from WNS because they migrate. When cold weather arrives they tend to move on to warmer climates where temperatures are unfavorable for the fungus, and they overwinter in trees or leaf litter rather than caves.

Although migration helps these bats escape WNS, they face other dangers on the journey to and from their winter homes. Scores are killed each year in wind turbines, which are becoming more prevalent as the United States seeks to expand its energy profile.

Tragically, the advent of WNS means the future is now even more uncertain for Michigan’s four imperiled bat species. One species, the northern long-eared bat (Myotis septentrionalis), is currently being considered for protection under the Endangered Species Act. Northern-long eared bats are not uncommon in the northeastern United States, but they are at risk due to habitat loss and because a large portion of the population overwinters in caves, sharing the space with potentially infected bats of other species.

Two other Michigan rarities, the evening bat (Nycticeius humeralis) and the eastern pipistrelle (Perimyotis subflavus, also called the tri-colored bat), may actually be better equipped to weather the WNS epidemic than our most common bats. Evening bats are a threatened species in Michigan, and eastern pipistrelles do not occur in Washtenaw County but are species of special concern in the state.

Both of these bats hibernate alone or in small colonies and are widespread in the southern United States, increasing the probability that they will survive the WNS outbreak. What’s more, the latest evidence suggests that even in regions hard hit by WNS the numbers of migratory, tree-dwelling bats have begun to rebound. Still, Michigan could lose evening bats and eastern pipistrelles simply because their statewide populations are miniscule.

The most critically imperiled bat species in our area is likely the Indiana bat (Myotis sodalis). It is currently the only endangered mammal in Washtenaw county, and as WNS advances, these bats will probably disappear.

In the past 35 years the Indiana bat population has declined by half due to habitat loss, pesticides, and human disruption of bat colonies during hibernation. Less than 400,000 individuals are left.

As winter approaches almost the entire remaining population of Indiana bats consolidates into just a few caves, where they huddle together by the thousands for warmth. Inside their hibernacula, cool, stable temperatures and high humidity provide the necessary conditions for Indiana bats to maintain their fat reserves until spring. Unfortunately the G. destructans fungus also thrives in this cave microclimate, so after decades of research and conservation, WNS threatens to unravel the Indiana bat’s recovery.

WNS is considered such a serious epidemic primarily because bat populations tend not to fluctuate over time and cannot quickly rebound from a catastrophic loss. Unlike most other small animals, like birds or rodents, bats have very low reproductive rates and are long lived. They typically produce just one pup a year, sometimes two, and many live 15-25 years or more, so population growth is very slow.

All bats are warm-blooded mammals with high metabolisms, so when freezing temperatures set in and insects disappear, they must either migrate to a warmer climate or hibernate. Bats that remain in parts of the country with long, bitter winters require long periods of uninterrupted torpor — a lowered metabolic state that conserves energy by lowering the body temperature to match the ambient temperature of the surrounding air and slowing the breathing and heart rate.

Healthy bats will rouse from their torpor for a few hours every three weeks or so, consuming close to 90 percent of their stored fat by spring. They cannot afford for this cycle to be disrupted. Bats irritated by WNS die because they are aroused much more frequently, and they exhaust their critical fat stores.

There is still a great deal to learn about WNS, and researchers only recently pinpointed the G. destructans fungus from Europe as the cause of the outbreak. The exotic soil fungus, to which Europe’s bats have evolved some immunity, is believed to have been introduced to the United States on the boot soles of a tourist who had visited caves. Once a cave becomes contaminated, 80-100 percent of the population usually disappears within two years.

Though research has also proven that WNS is extremely contagious and nearly always fatal for bats, it does not affect humans. Infected bats can appear to be covered in a white fuzz, growing on the muzzle, wings and ears. However, any bat observed flying during the winter is suspect, since healthy bats are rarely observed outside their winter roosts during hibernation.

So far, there is no cure for WNS, and researchers are focusing on prevention and treatment. Antifungals like those used in athlete’s foot do appear to inhibit the fungus, but these drugs have never been used to “clean” the environment and can harm other species.

Whether or not bats are darling or hideous is up for debate, but many common notions about their ghastliness are patently false, stemming from two pervasive urban legends. The first: that bats are blind, bumbling, flying rodents with a penchant for entangling themselves in ladies’ hair, and the second: that bats are filthy, rabid vermin eager to nip your neck and suck your blood.

In fact, bats are not rodents, but the only true flying mammals, and they make up a quarter of all mammal species on the planet. They are not clumsy, nor are they blind, and there are no documented accounts of bats in hair.

In fact, bats rarely collide with obstacles, and they use echolocation to expertly locate and gobble up tons of pesky insects each evening. For this reason the widespread demise of bats could have steep consequences. According to biologists at the Pennsylvania Game Commission, one million bats eat about 694 tons of insects every year, including crop pests and mosquitoes, and losing seven million of them to date could lead to increased pesticide use or the spread of West Nile virus.

As for their vampiric tendencies, although blood-drinking bats do exist, they do not live in North America. While bats can be a vector for rabies, less than one half of 1 percent are infected, and very few rabid bats are reported in Washtenaw county each year. Still, bat — especially dead bats — should not be handled.

The WNS epidemic, the rise of wind power, pesticide use, and habitat loss are threatening bats, and they need our help. If you see bats behaving oddly this winter, be sure to report the sighting so that it can be investigated.

Since not everyone is keen on sharing their attic, bat removal specialists can safely exclude them, but this should only be done when they are not nursing young or hibernating. If you choose to exclude bats from your home or just want to attract nature’s bug zappers to your garden, installing a bat house can provide a secure, alternative summer dwelling.

For details on building your own bat house and more information about Michigan’s bats, check out the Organization for Bat Conservation website, or see their bats up close at the Bat Zone at the Cranbrook Institute of Sciences in Bloomfield Hills.

Another way to help bats is by supporting campaigns and organizations that fund efforts to combat WNS and protect bats and their natural habitats. The Center for Biological Diversity has information on current legal initiatives, including the Wildlife Disease Emergency Act, and Bat Conservation International funds research and protection here and abroad.

We should fear for our bats as they are considered a “keystone species,” meaning that they are an integral part of the ecosystem that other plants and animals depend on. What will happen when this keystone crumbles? For the endangered Indiana bat, already placed on the brink of extinction by human activities, it may already be too late, and lamentably with the coming of WNS we may soon find out.

New center at Glacier Hills is a great new choice for those needing rehabilitation

Mon, 10 Dec, 2012 5:57 a.m.

Michelle Mitchell with Glacier Hills

We warmly welcomed a returning guest on the radio show this past weekend. Michelle Mitchell is the life enrichment manager at Glacier Hills. Michelle spoke proudly of the new rehabilitation center now open at Glacier Hills.

The new center is an 80-bed facility focused on short-term rehab and care. It is a beautiful addition to the Glacier Hills campus situated in northeast Ann Arbor.

Michelle shared that the new building has many more private rooms than the prior facility did. Private rooms are frequently requested by patients. Having visited the facility ourselves, even the semi-private rooms seem almost private due to a clever layout.

Of course the center has a top-quality therapy gym. What is new and different is the available aquatic therapy. There is a pool fully equipped with the appropriate devices to enable safe and effective therapy.

Michelle's focus at Glacier Hills is life enrichment, or as Michelle said, "It's all about quality of life." The staff works to engage the patients and residents in activities meaningful to the specific individual.

We also learned about the memory care services at Glacier Hills. Eva's House is the separate residence for those with a dementia/Alzheimer's diagnosis. Michelle emphasized how the care continues to evolve, becoming more effective and beneficial to this group of residents.

Glacier Hills is now working with the Dementia Care Specialists program. They use the Allen Cognitive Scale to measure cognitive and physical abilities to determine where a person really functions. The new approach is very innovative and has shown a great deal of promise.

To hear this 13-minute discussion, click the audio link:

Everything Elderly 1208 Michelle Mitchell.mp3">

To get in touch with Michelle or Glacier Hills, call 734-769-6410 or access the website glacierhills.org.

Jennifer Michalak with Milan Seniors for Healthy Living

Photos by Sheila Doeden

We were privileged to have Jennifer Michalak join the discussion next. Jennifer is the executive director of Milan Seniors for Healthy Living. This non-profit organization provides two important services, running the Milan senior activity center and providing transportation for elderly folks in the Milan area.

Jennifer explained how transportation services are critically important to allow people to remain independent living in their own homes. Milan borders Washtenaw and Monroe counties and has no public transportation services.

Milan Seniors for Healthy Living can pick seniors up and will take them up to 20 miles out of town — to doctors, the bank, wherever they need to get to. They can also connect people to Ann Arbor's TheRide (Ann Arbor Transportation Authority) public transportation services.

Regarding their senior activity center, Jennifer explained the important service all senior centers provide to their local area. The benefits include mental and physical stimulation, especially the social interaction that keeps folks engaged in life.

The Milan center has some seniors with them for 20 hours a week and others that come just on special occasions. There seems to always be lots of activities and certainly more than just bingo. There are physical fitness opportunities to stay in shape. There are direct health services as well with blood pressure checks, hearing checks, and flu shots.

We talked about the stereotypes of senior centers, with some 60- and 70-year-olds thinking they aren't old enough to go to a center, maybe fearing being labeled old and boring. As Jennifer made clear, her center is full of people active in life and anything but old and boring.

Jennifer also shared that when the elderly residents in Milan need assistance beyond Milan Seniors for Healthy Living, she encourages people to contact the Area Agency on Agency 1-B and Blueprint for Aging. These two organizations are terrific local resources offering a wealth of services.

To listen to this 13-minute talk, click the audio link:

Everything Elderly 1208 Jennifer Michalak.mp3">

To get in touch with Jennifer or Milan Seniors for Health Living, call 734-508-6229 or visit their website milanseniors.org.

Alan Caldwell and Sheila Doeden co-host Everything Elderly every Saturday morning at 8:30 on 1290 WLBY. In their day jobs, Alan and Sheila co-own and co-manage Senior Helpers, providing in-home care services, primarily to the elderly. Both can be contacted at homecareexcellence@seniorhelpers.com, or at 734-927-3111.

Holiday gifts for your fitness-minded friends

Tue, 4 Dec, 2012 8:01 p.m.

Looking for gift ideas for your friends who love fitness? Look no further. Below are some ideas of what to buy that are sure to please your workout buddies.

Gift certificates or vouchers for fitness classes offer your friends a chance to try out new workouts! It also allows them the flexibility to attend the classes when it works for their schedule. Purchase yourself one at the same time, and you two can attend together!

Fitness magazine subscriptions are also great gifts! A magazine subscription is a gift that continues to give month after month of fitness workouts and healthy recipes. With hundreds of fitness magazines there are plenty of options to fit your friend perfectly.

Does your friend love to lift weights or do exercises with kettle bells? Pick up a set of weights or kettlebells for their home. This will give them the option of fitting in a workout from the comfort of their home.

If you wanted to go for a budget-friendly gift consider making a workout CD for you friend with upbeat songs to keep them going through a tough workout. Even create CDs with specific workouts in mind; short runs, long runs or weight lifting workouts.

Melissa Gerharter MS, RD, CSSD is co-owner of Joust Strength and Fitness of Ann Arbor. She is also a part time lecturer at Eastern Michigan University. She can be reached at melissa@joustfitness.com.

Continuum of care allows seniors to happily age in place in one community

Mon, 3 Dec, 2012 5:57 a.m.

Kathy Quigley with Charlotte Stephenson Manor

Just to the southwest of Ann Arbor, in the happening little city of Adrian, there is a terrific senior community offering independent living through end of life care. Kathy Quigley is the director of Charlotte Stephenson Manor in Adrian and was our guest on the radio show this past weekend.

Kathy has been with this 49-bed senior facility since it opened in 1999. Kathy says her responsibility is to make all the puzzle pieces fit, and she seems to be doing that quite well. She is blessed to have a loyal staff that has gotten to really know and appreciate their residents.

Charlotte Stevenson Manor is part of the not-for-profit ProMedica Health System, which can provide skilled medical services to residents if necessary. Kathy's community offers independent living with their Preferred Choice program, which is ideal for seniors still active in the local area. Their assisted living has five levels of care for those needing some hands-on care to those experiencing end of life.

We also learned about Charlotte Stevenson's innovative Snowbird Program, new just this winter. Families that are helping care for an elderly loved one may wish to go south for the winter. Their elderly family member can move into the facility for the winter and get the care they need and enjoy the worry-free lifestyle.

Kathy's community also offers memory care (dementia care) that provides a secure area and services tailored to those with Alzheimer's or other dementia conditions. As Kathy stated, there is a rapidly growing need for dementia care as our country's population continues to age.

To hear this 13-minute discussion, click the audio link:

Everything Elderly 1201 Kathy Quigley.mp3">

To get in touch with Kathy or Charlotte Stephenson Manor, call 517-266-0943 or access the website promedica.org.

Jennifer Pruitt with the Heartland Health Care Center

Next on the program, we were quite fortunate to have two representatives from the Ann Arbor Heartland Health Care Center. Jennifer Pruitt is the administrator, and Jessica Prescott is the admissions and marketing director.

Jennifer explained that Heartland is a large, 180-bed post-acute care facility, specializing in rehabilitation, including therapy, nursing and social services. It's a busy place admitting (and discharging) about 40 people every week. About 90 percent of their patients need short-term rehab and are with Heartland for a few weeks. A typical patient has two to two and half hours of therapy every day.

Jessica Prescott with the Heartland Health Care Center

Photos by Sheila Doeden

Jessica shared that most of their patients are coming from the hospital and recovering from emergency or elective surgery. Those that have had orthopedic surgery will likely stay in their newly designated orthopedic wing where these patients will get appropriate care to manage any pain and continue rehabilitating until they can safely return home.

We discussed hospital readmissions and the associated significant cost issues and patient care problems. Jennifer was previously involved in a large-scale project to reduce hospital readmissions. The Heartland Center now has more patients with increased medical complexity — part of working with hospitals to help manage costs.

Jennifer's staff works with patients and their families to educate them on how to manage chronic disease conditions. Of significance, Congestive Heart Failure and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) are the two conditions that most often send people to the hospital in the first place and also cause the most readmissions. Better lifestyle management can improve these situations — monitoring weight, lowering sodium intake, looking for signs and symptoms of heart problems and managing medications.

To listen to this 13-minute talk, click the audio link:

Everything Elderly 1201 Heartland Ann Arbor Center.mp3">

To get in touch with Jennifer, Jessica, or the Ann Arbor Heartland Health Care Center, call 734-975-2600 or visit their website hcr-manorcare.com.

Cancer researchers at UM's North Campus Research Complex push for new therapies

Fri, 30 Nov, 2012 7:30 a.m.

Colin Duckett, PhD, Director of Program Development at NCRC, Professor of Pathology and Professor of Internal Medicine, Division of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, University of Michigan

Betsy de Parry

Colin Duckett's eyes light up when he talks about the present and future of the North Campus Research Complex (NCRC). And what a future it has, from fundamentally changing how scientists approach research to growing the economy throughout southeast Michigan.

For anyone who doesn't know by now, the NCRC was once home to pharmaceutical giant Pfizer. In January 2007, the company — then Ann Arbor's largest private employer — shocked the city when it announced plans to close the facility.

In October 2008, the last 34 of its former 2,100 employees locked the doors for the last time, leaving the sprawling 174-acre research campus a ghost town, along with its 28 buildings that house 2.1 million square feet of office, research and manufacturing space.

In June 2009, the University of Michigan acquired the site and began an unprecedented expansion of its already acclaimed research endeavors.

By the end of this fiscal year, nearly 2,000 employees will be working at NCRC in almost half the available space. The Annual Report, just released online, shows how far and fast NCRC has come since the acquisition.

As director of program development of NCRC, Dr. Duckett is responsible, in the very broadest sense, for leading the campus to its highest and best use. It's a role, he says, that's both multi-faceted and evolving.

Of course a large part of the campus is devoted to research, but Dr. Duckett makes it clear that the campus will also promote the formation of businesses.

Already, in addition to the presence on the campus of several private companies, 19 companies have set up shop in the Venture Accelerator at NCRC. They're moving new innovations that were developed at the university into the marketplace, thus creating jobs and boosting the economy.

But what I really wanted to know was what NCRC means to someone who faces cancer.

Dr. Duckett's vision is that discoveries made there will drive treatment. "With the great spectrum of cancer researchers that we've got here," he says, "many are particularly well placed to take discoveries and turn them into treatments that can be used to cure patients."

Dr. Duckett's own lab will soon move from the main campus. He and his colleagues study how cells respond to internal and external cues. More specifically, they study apoptosis, a normal process in which cells die when they are no longer needed, or when they become damaged.

Apoptosis is controlled by signals that are carried by a series of proteins that form networks within cells. When the proteins inhibit apoptosis, cells no longer die when they should, and uncontrolled growth — i.e., cancer — results.

Dr. Duckett and his colleagues are examining the role of a group of proteins known as IAPs (Inhibitors of Apoptosis) and exploring the therapeutic potential of targeting them.

The ultimate goal, he tells me, is not to come up with something that makes chemotherapy more bearable but to replace chemotherapy with less toxic, more effective therapies. He quickly adds that it's not just his goal but the goal of scientists throughout the country and, indeed, the world.

So how can that goal be reached most expeditiously? By bringing together scientists from different disciplines and enabling them to work side by side.

Dr. Duckett points out that this isn't a new concept. It's happening, he tells me, all across campus, adding, "There's a huge amount of goodwill here at the university, and people want to collaborate."

But prior to having NCRC, investigators were isolated, i.e., chemists were in the chemistry buildings, biologists in the biology buildings, engineers in the engineering buildings, and so forth.

NCRC enables investigators from different disciplines — medical researchers, biologists, chemists, pharmacologists, engineers, etc. — to co-exist in the same space, thus giving them a chance to talk together and to collaborate in ways they've not been able to do before.

And the mission, in the case of cancer research, is to speed discoveries to patients.

The Translational Oncology Program (TOP) at NCRC advances that mission. Led by Dr. Diane Simeone, up to 40 laboratories from many different departments, schools and institutes, are coming together to focus on how science can best be "translated" into practical ways of treating patients.

The program is keenly focused on accelerating the development and testing of new treatments and to facilitate moving discoveries into the clinic so that patients can benefit from them.

This kind of collaboration is great news for cancer research: when people from different disciplines work on the same problem, science moves forward faster, so it's easy to see how NCRC is a key player in changing the way cancer is prevented and treated.

"It may be, though," says Dr. Duckett, "that the person who is cured by a novel treatment developed by a Michigan-based researcher, or a multinational team that includes scientists from UM, may never visit Michigan or even know what NCRC is. And that's fine."

Indeed. As we wandered through many of the NCRC buildings — some occupied, some empty — Dr. Duckett pointed out office space and labs, including the one where Pfizer's blockbuster drug Lipitor was developed, and I couldn't help but marvel at spaces where discoveries were made that helped people far beyond the borders of Ann Arbor.

Today, that's happening again. Some of the labs are in full swing. Others are gearing up. New discoveries will be made, and they'll help people everywhere.

Few of us will ever know the names of the people who work at NCRC, but collectively, their megawatts of brainpower and passion fuel innovation, and that means more people will get to go on living their lives after cancer.

That's why NCRC, for those who face cancer, is so much more than a collection of buildings. It's a place where hope and promise hang from every wall.

Betsy de Parry is the author of Adventures In Cancer Land. Find her on Facebook or email her.

Restaurant Inspections for Washtenaw County in October 2012

Wed, 28 Nov, 2012 11:15 a.m.

Michigan Adopts New Language for Restaurant Inspections

The State of Michigan has updated its Food Law and adopted the Michigan Modified Food Code. The most noticeable change is in the terminology used for violations in restaurant inspections. Previously, violations were Critical or Non-Critical. As of Oct. 1, they are categorized as Priority, Priority Foundation or Core.

Priority violations are the most serious. Correcting these eliminates or reduces a problem directly associated with foodborne illness. Examples include improper food temperatures and lack of hand washing. Priority violations were previously Critical violations.

Priority Foundation violations are problems that can lead to a Priority violation. Correcting these problems may keep Priority violations from occurring. Examples include not having am appropriate food thermometer, not having sanitizer test strips and not having soap or paper towel at a hand sink. The Priority Foundation category is made up of violations that were previously called Critical or Non-Critical Violations.

Core violations are related to general sanitation and facility maintenance. Core violations were previously Non-Critical violations. Examples include dirty floors and improper facility lighting.

Priority and Priority Foundation violations must be corrected immediately at the time of inspection or within 10 days. Core violations must be corrected within 90 days of the inspection.

Where can I see the inspection results?

You can also search our online database of all restaurant inspections and detailed reports. Click here for access to all Washtenaw County restaurant inspections!

How frequent are inspections?

What if I have a complaint?

October Report

Inspection Summary Report
Establishment	Address	City	Inspection Date	Priority	Priority Foundation	Core
ABBOTT ELEMENTARY	2670 SEQUOIA PARKWAY	ANN ARBOR	10/29/2012	1	0	0
ACHILLES RESTAURANT	3075 PACKARD	ANN ARBOR	10/26/2012	0	0	0
ADAMS ELEMENTARY	503 OAK	YPSILANTI	10/11/2012	0	0	2
AFTERNOON DELIGHT	251 E. LIBERTY	ANN ARBOR	10/25/2012	0	0	0
AHMO'S GYROS & DELI	4001 STONE SCHOOL ROAD	ANN ARBOR	10/4/2012	0	0	1
ALLEN ELEMENTARY	2560 TOWNER	ANN ARBOR	10/22/2012	0	0	0
ALLEY BAR	112 W. LIBERTY	ANN ARBOR	10/17/2012	0	0	1
AMANDA'S KITCHEN	3744 PLAZA DR	ANN ARBOR	10/11/2012	0	0	0
AMERICAN GRILL INC.	1450 HOLMES ROAD	YPSILANTI	10/1/2012	1	0	0
AMERICAN LEGION POST 268	44 WABASH STREET	MILAN	10/11/2012	0	0	0
AMER'S DELI	611 CHURCH STREET	ANN ARBOR	10/17/2012	1	0	1
ANGELL ELEMENTARY	1608 S. UNIVERSITY	ANN ARBOR	10/25/2012	0	0	0
ANN ARBOR CITY CLUB	1830 WASHTENAW	ANN ARBOR	10/15/2012	0	0	0
ARBOR PREPARATORY HIGH SCHOOL	6800 HITCHINGHAM RD.	YPSILANTI	10/26/2012	1	0	0
ARIRANG	3135 OAK VALLEY DRIVE	ANN ARBOR	10/4/2012	0	2	0
ARK	316 S. MAIN STREET	ANN ARBOR	10/11/2012	2	0	1
ASHLEY'S RESTAURANTS LTD	338 S. STATE STREET	ANN ARBOR	10/22/2012	1	1	4
ASIA CITY RESTAURANT	2905 WASHTENAW AVE.	YPSILANTI	10/2/2012	11	7	4
AUNTIE ANNE'S PRETZELS	261 BRIARWOOD CIRCLE	ANN ARBOR	10/23/2012	0	0	0
AVI FOOD SYSTEM @ NSF INTERNATIONAL	789 DIXBORO ROAD	ANN ARBOR	10/11/2012	0	0	0
AYAKA	1205 S. UNIVERSITY	ANN ARBOR	10/25/2012	0	0	2
BABS' UNDERGROUND LOUNGE	213 S. ASHLEY	ANN ARBOR	10/2/2012	0	0	0
BAGGER DAVE'S	859 W. EISENHOWER PARKWAY	ANN ARBOR	10/19/2012	1	0	2
BANFIELD'S BAR & GRILL	3140 PACKARD	ANN ARBOR	10/15/2012	0	1	5
BARRY BAGELS (BAGEL PLACE)	2515 JACKSON AVENUE	ANN ARBOR	10/22/2012	0	0	0
BD'S MONGOLIAN GRILL OF ANN ARBOR	200 S. MAIN STREET	ANN ARBOR	10/18/2012	2	0	8
BEARCLAW COFFEE COMPANY	2460 WASHTENAW AVE.	ANN ARBOR	10/16/2012	0	0	0
BELLA ITALIA PIZZA & PASTA	895 W. EISENHOWER PARKWAY	ANN ARBOR	10/18/2012	0	0	6
BELL'S PIZZA	716 PACKARD	ANN ARBOR	10/9/2012	0	0	1
BEN & JERRY'S HOMEMADE	304 S. STATE STREET	ANN ARBOR	10/10/2012	0	0	2
BIG SKY DINER	1340 ECORSE ROAD	YPSILANTI	10/22/2012	0	1	0
BIGGBY COFFEE	6961 E. MICHIGAN AVE	SALINE	10/30/2012	1	0	1
BIGGBY COFFEE # 288	2550 W. STADIUM BLVD	ANN ARBOR	10/16/2012	0	0	2
BILL'S BEER GARDEN	218 S ASHLEY	ANN ARBOR	10/31/2012	0	0	0
BISHOP ELEMENTARY	8888 WHITTAKER ROAD	YPSILANTI	10/18/2012	0	0	0
BLACKPEARL	302 S. MAIN ST.	ANN ARBOR	10/16/2012	0	0	8
BLIND PIG CAFE	208 S. FIRST STREET	ANN ARBOR	10/1/2012	2	0	0
BLUE TRACTOR	211 E. WASHINGTON	ANN ARBOR	10/18/2012	0	0	0
BOB EVANS FARM INC	2411 CARPENTER ROAD	ANN ARBOR	10/23/2012	1	0	2
BONE HEADS BAR-B-QUE INC	10256 WILLIS ROAD	WILLIS	10/2/2012	0	0	1
BRAHMA STEAKHOUSE	4855 WASHTENAW	ANN ARBOR	10/26/2012	0	1	0
BRECON VILLAGE MEMORY SUPPORT CENTER	202 BRECON DRIVE	SALINE	10/25/2012	0	0	0
BRYANT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL	2150 SANTA ROSA	ANN ARBOR	10/31/2012	0	2	2
BURGER KING #481	6190 W MICHIGAN AVENUE	YPSILANTI	10/26/2012	0	0	0
CASEY'S TAVERN	304 DEPOT STREET	ANN ARBOR	10/29/2012	0	0	0
CHELSEA HIGH FOOTBALL CONCESSION	500 E. WASHINGTON	CHELSEA	10/5/2012	0	0	0
CHIA SHIANG RESTAURANT	2016 PACKARD	ANN ARBOR	10/25/2012	0	0	0
CHOP HOUSE	322 S. MAIN STREET	ANN ARBOR	10/18/2012	1	0	6
COBBLESTONE FARM CENTER	2791 PACKARD	ANN ARBOR	10/15/2012	0	0	0
CONTINENETAL CANTEEN- LOWES BREAKROOM	5900 JACKSON RD	ANN ARBOR	10/18/2012	0	1	0
CONTINENTAL CANTEEN - CHELEA RETIRE HOME	805 W. MIDDLE -HALLWAY	CHELSEA	10/18/2012	0	0	1
CONTINENTAL CANTEEN - SWEEPSTER	2800 N. ZEEB - SHOP	DEXTER	10/18/2012	0	0	1
CONTINENTAL CANTEEN -DEXTER DIST CNTR	2103 BISHOP CIRCLE EAST -FRONT	DEXTER	10/18/2012	0	0	1
CONTINENTAL CANTEEN -HCR MANORCARE	4701 E. HURON -LUNCH ROOM	ANN ARBOR	10/18/2012	0	0	1
CONTINENTAL CANTEEN -SWEEPSTER	2800 N ZEEB - LUNCH ROOM	DEXTER	10/18/2012	0	1	2
CONTINENTAL CANTEEN VARIETY DIE	2221 BISHOP CIRCLE EAST-MAIN	DEXTER	10/18/2012	0	0	0
COTTAGE INN PIZZA	244 JOE HALL	YPSILANTI	10/31/2012	0	1	0
CREEKSIDE GRILL & BAR	5827 JACKSON ROAD	ANN ARBOR	10/30/2012	0	0	4
CUBE CAFE (THE)	2121 OAK VALLEY DRIVE	ANN ARBOR	10/23/2012	0	0	0
CURRY UP	2711 PLYMOUTH RD	ANN ARBOR	10/11/2012	1	0	4
DEXTER ATHLETIC BOOSTERS CONC.	2615 BAKER ROAD	DEXTER	10/26/2012	0	0	0
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DOMINICK'S	812 MONROE	ANN ARBOR	10/31/2012	0	0	0
DOMINO'S PIZZA #1109	2282 S. MAIN STREET	ANN ARBOR	10/30/2012	0	0	0
DOMINO'S PIZZA / T & R PIZZA	401 E. MICHIGAN AVENUE	SALINE	10/18/2012	0	0	3
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EMU BOOTH #202 EAST	RYNEARSON STADIUM	YPSILANTI	10/6/2012	0	0	3
EMU BOOTH #204 EAST	RYNEARSON STADIUM	YPSILANTI	10/16/2012	1	0	0
EMU CONCESSION BOOTH WEST	RYNEARSON STADIUM	YPSILANTI	10/6/2012	0	0	2
EMU DINING COMMONS #1	850 W. CROSS STREET	YPSILANTI	10/19/2012	2	0	5
EMU EAGLE CREST GRILLE	1275 S. HURON	YPSILANTI	10/24/2012	3	1	9
ERICKSON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL	1427 LEVONA	YPSILANTI	10/4/2012	0	0	4
ESPRESSO ROYALE	2264 S. MAIN STREET	ANN ARBOR	10/2/2012	0	0	0
FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH	209 WASHTENAW	YPSILANTI	10/10/2012	0	0	0
FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH	128 PARK STREET	CHELSEA	10/9/2012	0	0	0
FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH	120 S. STATE STREET	ANN ARBOR	10/16/2012	0	0	0
FOREST SCHOOL	1706 ECORSE ROAD	YPSILANTI	10/2/2012	0	0	3
FOX CLASSIC CLUBHOUSE	8768 N. TERRITORIAL ROAD	PLYMOUTH	10/26/2012	0	0	0
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GABRIEL'S CHEESE STEAK HOAGIES	972 E MICHIGAN AVE	SALINE	10/19/2012	0	0	0
GOLDEN WALL	421 W. CROSS STREET	YPSILANTI	10/2/2012	1	0	5
GREAT PLAINS BURGER COMPANY	1771 PLYMOUTH RD.	ANN ARBOR	10/9/2012	0	0	0
GRIZZLY PEAK BREWING CO.	120 W. WASHINGTON	ANN ARBOR	10/1/2012	2	0	0
HAISLEY ELEMENTARY	825 DUNCAN	ANN ARBOR	10/30/2012	0	0	1
HAPPY'S PIZZA #18	600 S. MAIN STREET	ANN ARBOR	10/30/2012	2	0	10
HAWTHORN SUITES ANN ARBOR	3535 GREEN ROAD	ANN ARBOR	10/22/2012	0	1	0
HEIDELBERG	215 N. MAIN STREET	ANN ARBOR	10/30/2012	0	1	4
HENRY FORD ELEMENTARY	2440 CLARK ROAD	YPSILANTI	10/12/2012	0	0	0
HIDDEN DRAGON	15 W. MICHIGAN AVENUE	YPSILANTI	10/18/2012	1	0	3
HOLMES ELEMENTARY SCHOOL	1255 HOLMES ROAD	YPSILANTI	10/12/2012	0	0	0
HONG KONG	2339 ELLSWORTH RD	YPSILANTI	10/29/2012	0	2	2
HOPE MEDICAL CLINIC	518 HARRIET ST.	YPSILANTI	10/12/2012	0	0	0
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IZZY'S HOAGIE SHOP	1924 W. STADIUM BLVD	ANN ARBOR	10/4/2012	0	1	0
JENNY'S PIZZA PERFECT	332 S. FORD BLVD	YPSILANTI	10/19/2012	0	0	0
JIMMY JOHNS	1149 S MAIN ST.	CHELSEA	10/11/2012	0	0	0
JIMMY JOHN'S	2615 PLYMOUTH ROAD	ANN ARBOR	10/15/2012	0	0	0
JIMMY JOHN'S	1207 S. UNIVERSITY	ANN ARBOR	10/17/2012	0	0	1
JIMMY JOHNS GOURMET SANDWICHES	537 W. CROSS ST.	YPSILANTI	10/11/2012	0	0	0
JOE'S CONEY ISLAND	6066 RAWSONVILLE ROAD	BELLEVILLE	10/3/2012	0	0	3
JOE'S JAVA @ SJMH - ANN ARBOR	5301 EAST HURON RIVER DR.	ANN ARBOR	10/10/2012	0	0	0
JOE'S JAVA @ SJMH - SALINE	400 W. RUSSELL ST.	SALINE	10/19/2012	0	0	0
KARL'S FAMILY RESTAURANT	9779 N. TERRITORIAL ROAD	PLYMOUTH	10/25/2012	0	0	0
KATHY'S DEPOE DOGS, INC.	3300 CARPENTER RD (HOME DEPOT)	ANN ARBOR	10/25/2012	0	0	0
LA FUENTE, INC	1930 WHITTAKER RD	YPSILANTI	10/16/2012	0	0	0
LAI LAI (A & J & L)	4023 CARPENTER ROAD	YPSILANTI	10/17/2012	0	0	10
LAWTON ELEMENTARY	2250 S. SEVENTH STREET	ANN ARBOR	10/24/2012	0	0	0
LE DOG/DOBOS INTERNATIONAL	410 E. LIBERTY	ANN ARBOR	10/11/2012	0	0	2
LENA/HABANA	226 S MAINT ST	ANN ARBOR	10/29/2012	1	0	0
LINCOLN BRICK ELEMENTARY	8970 WHITTAKER ROAD	YPSILANTI	10/18/2012	0	0	0
LINCOLN HIGH SCHOOL EAST	7525 WILLIS ROAD	YPSILANTI	10/18/2012	0	0	0
LINCOLN HIGH SCHOOL WEST	7425 WILLIS ROAD	YPSILANTI	10/18/2012	0	0	0
LINKS AT WHITMORE LAKE	1111 SIX MILE ROAD	WHITMORE LAKE	10/30/2012	0	0	0
LITTLE CAESAR'S PIZZA	3000 PACKARD	ANN ARBOR	10/31/2012	0	0	0
LOGAN - AN AMERICAN RESTAURANT	115 W. WASHINGTON STREET	ANN ARBOR	10/18/2012	0	0	0
LOTUS THAI RESTAURANT	2803 OAK VALLEY DRIVE	ANN ARBOR	10/23/2012	0	0	1
LUCKY KITCHEN	611 E. UNIVERSITY	ANN ARBOR	10/16/2012	0	0	2
MAHEK	214 E. WASHINGTON	ANN ARBOR	10/18/2012	1	1	2
MARK'S MIDTOWN CONEY ISLAND (J & C )	3586 PLYMOUTH ROAD	ANN ARBOR	10/23/2012	0	0	0
McDONALD'S #6332	166 JAMES L. HART PARKWAY	YPSILANTI	10/12/2012	1	0	5
MELTING POT (THE)	309 S. MAIN ST.	ANN ARBOR	10/31/2012	1	0	3
MI ZARAPE II LLC	7025 E MICHIGAN AVENUE	SALINE	10/4/2012	0	0	0
MICHIGAN FRIENDS CENTER	7748 CLARKS LAKE ROAD	CHELSEA	10/11/2012	0	0	0
MIGHTY GOOD COFFEE ROASTING CO.	217 N. MAIN ST.	ANN ARBOR	10/17/2012	0	0	4
MIKE'S DELI	114 W. MIDDLE STREET	CHELSEA	10/9/2012	0	0	0
MILAN GRILL	39 EAST MAIN ST	MILAN	10/18/2012	0	0	2
MILAN MIDDLE SCHOOL	920 NORTH STREET	MILAN	10/18/2012	1	0	0
MITCHELL ELEMENTARY	3550 PITTSVIEW	ANN ARBOR	10/19/2012	0	0	0
MODEL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL (LINCOLN)	8850 WHITTAKER RD.	YPSILANTI	10/18/2012	0	0	0
MOONWINKS CAFE	5151 PLYMOUTH RD SUITE A	ANN ARBOR	10/26/2012	0	0	0
NEESE'S CITY DINER	1449 ECORSE ROAD	YPSILANTI	10/4/2012	0	1	0
NEW GRACE APOSTOLIC TEMPLE	2898 PACKARD	ANN ARBOR	10/2/2012	1	0	0
NEW TECH HIGH SCHOOL @ ARDIS	2100 ELLSWORTH ROAD	YPSILANTI	10/23/2012	0	1	3
NEW YORK PIZZA DEPOT	605 E. WILLIAM	ANN ARBOR	10/10/2012	0	0	4
NORTHSIDE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL	912 BARTON DRIVE	ANN ARBOR	10/1/2012	0	0	0
NORTHSIDE GRILL	1015 BROADWAY	ANN ARBOR	10/23/2012	0	0	0
NSK CORPORATE DINING	4200 GOSS RD	ANN ARBOR	10/22/2012	0	0	1
NT FOOD FOUNDRY	4747 WASHTENAW AVE	ANN ARBOR	10/16/2012	0	0	2
OCED SENIOR NUTRITION PROGRAM	727 MILLER	ANN ARBOR	10/25/2012	0	0	0
OCED SENIOR NUTRITION PROGRAM	106 PACKARD	ANN ARBOR	10/3/2012	0	0	0
OCED SENIOR NUTRITION PROGRAM ON BALDWIN	1320 BALDWIN	ANN ARBOR	10/29/2012	0	0	0
PACIFIC RIM BY KANA	114 W. LIBERTY	ANN ARBOR	10/16/2012	0	0	0
PADDOCK ELEMENTARY	707 MARVIN STREET	MILAN	10/11/2012	0	0	0
PANDA HOUSE	229 N. MAPLE RD.	ANN ARBOR	10/11/2012	0	0	3
PANERA BREAD # 1366	777 N. UNIVERSITY	ANN ARBOR	10/18/2012	0	0	0
PAPA JOHN'S PIZZA	4559 WASHTENAW AVE STE B	ANN ARBOR	10/4/2012	0	0	0
PEACE NEIGHBORHOOD CENTER	1111 N. MAPLE ROAD	ANN ARBOR	10/12/2012	0	0	0
PERRY CHILD DEV CTR DOWNSTAIRS	550 PERRY ST.	YPSILANTI	10/12/2012	0	0	1
PERRY CHILD DEV CTR UPSTAIRS	550 PERRY ST.	YPSILANTI	10/12/2012	0	0	0
PIONEER HIGH SCHOOL CAFETERIA	601 W. STADIUM BLVD	ANN ARBOR	10/18/2012	0	0	1
PITA PITA	2649 WASHTENAW	YPSILANTI	10/30/2012	0	1	1
PITTSFIELD ELEMENTARY	2543 PITTSFIELD BLVD.	ANN ARBOR	10/15/2012	0	1	0
PIZZA BOB'S	814 S. STATE STREET	ANN ARBOR	10/9/2012	0	0	3
PIZZA HOUSE	618 CHURCH STREET	ANN ARBOR	10/23/2012	0	0	2
PLEASANT LAKE INN, INC.	11275 PLEASANT LAKE ROAD	MANCHESTER	10/23/2012	0	0	0
POLO FIELDS - WASHTENAW (THE)	2955 PACKARD	YPSILANTI	10/16/2012	0	0	1
QDOBA MEXICAN GRILL	3279 WASHTENAW AVE	ANN ARBOR	10/22/2012	0	0	2
QUARTER BISTRO	300 S. MAPLE ROAD	ANN ARBOR	10/15/2012	2	1	2
QUICKIE BURGER BAR & GRILL	800 S. STATE STREET	ANN ARBOR	10/24/2012	1	0	1
QUIZNOS SUB	5645 JACKSON RD	ANN ARBOR	10/11/2012	0	0	2
QUIZNO'S SUB # 13922	3825 CARPENTER RD	YPSILANTI	10/11/2012	0	0	0
QUIZNO'S SUBS	4655 WASHTENAW	ANN ARBOR	10/12/2012	0	0	1
QUIZNO'S SUBS	3584 PLYMOUTH ROAD	ANN ARBOR	10/11/2012	0	0	0
RAWSONVILLE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL	3110 GROVE ROAD	YPSILANTI	10/24/2012	0	0	0
RED BRICK KITCHEN & BAR	8093 MAIN ST.	DEXTER	10/19/2012	1	0	0
REDDEMAN FARMS GOLF CLUB	555 DANCER ROAD	CHELSEA	10/19/2012	0	0	0
RICH JC	1313 S. UNIVERSITY	ANN ARBOR	10/25/2012	0	0	3
ROLY POLY	2412 E. STADIUM BLVD.	ANN ARBOR	10/25/2012	0	0	0
RUSH STREET RESTAURANT	314 S. MAIN STREET	ANN ARBOR	10/26/2012	0	0	5
SALINE AREA SENIOR COUNCIL, INC	7190 MAPLE RD	SALINE	10/16/2012	0	0	0
SALVATION ARMY	100 ARBANA DR	ANN ARBOR	10/31/2012	0	0	2
SALVATION ARMY	9 S. PARK	YPSILANTI	10/3/2012	0	0	0
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SIAM KITCHEN	2509 JACKSON ROAD	ANN ARBOR	10/26/2012	0	0	0
SIAM SQUARE	3750 WASHTENAW	ANN ARBOR	10/17/2012	1	0	0
SIDETRACK	56 E. CROSS STREET	YPSILANTI	10/15/2012	0	0	0
ST. ANDREWS CHURCH OF CHRIST	7610 ANN ARBOR STREET	DEXTER	10/19/2012	0	0	0
ST. JOHN'S CATHOLIC CHURCH	410 W. CROSS STREET	YPSILANTI	10/31/2012	0	0	0
STARBUCKS COFFEE #13531	3650 CARPENTER RD.	ANN ARBOR	10/26/2012	0	0	0
STIVERS	11 S. FLETCHER ROAD	CHELSEA	10/19/2012	0	0	0
SUBWAY	411 E. WASHINGTON STE A2	ANN ARBOR	10/1/2012	0	0	0
SUBWAY	10955 WILLIS ROAD	WILLIS	10/24/2012	0	0	0
SUBWAY	1107 S. MAIN STREET	CHELSEA	10/10/2012	0	0	1
SUBWAY (HGS 4)	2124 WHITTAKER ROAD, SUITE C	YPSILANTI	10/24/2012	0	0	1
SUBWAY @ EMU	900 OAKWOOD	YPSILANTI	10/4/2012	0	0	4
SUBWAY @ WAL-MART/MARUTI FAST FOODS, LLC	7000 EAST MICHIGAN AVE	SALINE	10/19/2012	0	0	0
TACO BELL # 9591	2351 ELLSWORTH ROAD	YPSILANTI	10/16/2012	0	0	0
TACO BELL #27886	1085 E MICHIGAN AVE.	YPSILANTI	10/4/2012	0	0	0
TAPPAN JR. HIGH SCHOOL	2251 E. STADIUM BLVD	ANN ARBOR	10/22/2012	1	1	2
THURSTON ELEMENTARY	2300 PRAIRIE	ANN ARBOR	10/29/2012	0	2	0
TIM HORTON'S	524 E. MICHIGAN AVENUE	SALINE	10/18/2012	0	0	3
TRAVEL CENTERS OF AMERICA T/A	200 BAKER ROAD	DEXTER	10/25/2012	0	0	1
TREE OF LIFE STUDIO	6065 SIBLEY RD	CHELSEA	10/10/2012	0	0	0
TRINITY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH	10101 W. ANN ARBOR ROAD	PLYMOUTH	10/24/2012	0	0	0
TWISTER'S ICE CREAM & MAIN STREET BAGEL	901 S. MAIN STREET	CHELSEA	10/5/2012	0	0	0
VIE FITNESS & SPA	209 S. ASHLEY ST.	ANN ARBOR	10/31/2012	0	0	0
WASHTENAW INTERNATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL	510 EMERICK	YPSILANTI	10/24/2012	0	0	2
WCC MORRIS LAWRENCE BLDG/ FABULOUS FOODS	4800 E. HURON RIVER DRIVE	ANN ARBOR	10/10/2012	0	0	0
WEBER'S DINING, KITCHEN, VENTURA	3050 JACKSON ROAD	ANN ARBOR	10/23/2012	1	0	5
WENDY'S	750 S. HEWITT ROAD	YPSILANTI	10/30/2012	0	0	0
WEST END GRILL	120 W. LIBERTY	ANN ARBOR	10/3/2012	0	0	0
WHATS COOKING!	3744 PLAZA DRIVE	ANN ARBOR	10/11/2012	0	0	0
WHITMORE LAKE HIGH SCHOOL KITCHEN	7430 WHITMORE LAKE RD.	WHITMORE LAKE	10/30/2012	0	0	0
WILLOW RUN HIGH SCHOOL	235 SPENCER LANE	YPSILANTI	10/10/2012	0	0	0
WILLOW RUN MIDDLE SCHOOL	235 SPENCER LANE	YPSILANTI	10/10/2012	0	0	0
WOLVERINE GRILL	228 W. MICHIGAN AVENUE	YPSILANTI	10/23/2012	1	1	1
YPSILANTI HIGH SCHOOL	2095 PACKARD	YPSILANTI	10/25/2012	1	0	4

Patients fight back when the FDA refuses to review a new cancer therapy

Mon, 26 Nov, 2012 3:15 p.m.

Producing the BiovaxID vaccine

Biovest International

Michael Wolfe, whose story recently aired on CNN, was diagnosed with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), a deadly form of brain cancer from which most people die within a year of diagnosis. Michael has survived, disease free and healthy, for an unprecedented six years, thanks to a cancer vaccine known as ICT-107, which is still in clinical trials.

The development of cancer vaccines began more than 25 years ago. In the early days, success was elusive, but vaccines are at last proving to be an important weapon in the fight against cancer, borne out by maturing data from years of clinical trials and patients like Michael who are living longer.

So what are cancer vaccines? Unlike vaccines that are given to prevent illnesses such as measles or mumps, cancer vaccines are given to eradicate cancer or to prevent its recurrence. Some are given alone. Others are given following chemotherapy.

How they work varies, depending on the type of vaccine and the type of cancer, but all enlist our own immune systems to attack diseased cells. And because our immune systems have "memory," it's hoped that they will keep cancer from recurring.

To date, one vaccine — Provenge for some men with metastatic prostate cancer — has been approved by the FDA. Vaccines for many other types of cancer — from breast to bladder to kidney to pancreatic and others — are being investigated in active clinical trials.

But before any drug is widely available, it has to gain approval from the FDA. And that's not an easy process.

Take the case of the BiovaxID vaccine. Its history dates back to 1994 when Dr. Larry Kwak, then a scientist at the National Cancer Institute (NCI), developed a vaccine against follicular non-Hodgkin lymphoma (FL) for which treatments then were both harsh and not very effective.

Dr. Kwak tested the vaccine in 20 patients and in 1999 reported that it could induce deep remissions.

Earlier today, I spoke with the first person who received the vaccine. Still in remission, she credits Dr. Kwak and the vaccine for giving her all the years of good health that she's since enjoyed.

Like her, a third of the patients in that early trial remain disease free, remarkable for a disease that is marked by recurrence.

In 2000, the NCI partnered with Biovest International, a small biotechnology company, to commercialize the vaccine, now known as BiovaxID. Earlier this year, Biovest submitted a request to the FDA to apply for approval under the agency's Accelerated Approval Program.

This program allows for earlier approval of drugs that treat serious disease and that fill an unmet need. As defined by the FDA, "unmet medical need simply means providing a therapy when none exists or providing a new therapy that may be superior to or less toxic than an existing one."

Companies that receive accelerated approval for their drugs are required to conduct post-approval studies, known as Phase 4 confirmatory trials. If the additional trial confirms that the drug provides clinical benefit, traditional FDA approval is granted. If not, the drug could be removed from the market.

In other words, the Accelerated Approval Program gives patients quicker access to treatments for serious illnesses.

The BiovaxID vaccine seemed like an ideal candidate to be reviewed for accelerated approval. Data from three clinical trials spanning 18 years shows that the duration of response increased, on average, by over a year, although some patients have remained disease free for many years. And importantly, not a single patient has experienced a serious, adverse vaccine-related event, which makes the vaccine less toxic than existing treatments.

But the FDA turned down the request, so the vaccine never made it to first base in the approval process.

Instead, the FDA told the company to conduct another clinical trial and then come back with another request for approval. That will take years. Just as troubling, will investors be willing to lay out the millions of dollars that it will take to conduct the trial for a "maybe"?

Even acknowledging this, the FDA's reason for denying the request was that the vaccine does not fill an unmet need. But the FDA never heard from patients. We tell a different story.

In the interest of full disclosure, I say "we" because I am an almost 11-year survivor of FL, thanks to radioimmunotherapy (RIT), a treatment that has shown to provide the longest periods of remission and the only treatment that has so far shown to be potentially curative. But few patients ever get RIT because it is sorely underutilized for all the wrong reasons, a subject about which I have written extensively.

The remaining treatment options that are almost always used — and there are several — only slow the disease. Invariably, it returns and requires stronger treatments. Remission periods and response rates decrease with each successive treatment, and every additional treatment increases the risk of serious side effects and secondary cancers. Wouldn't you want to use treatments that have the potential to prolong remission periods and thus reduce your risk?

Recent improvements in therapies, including the BiovaxID vaccine, have shown to increase remission periods, so it's not the only treatment that has that ability. But there's a notable difference in this vaccine: every existing treatment is known to have the potential for serious side effects, including suppressing the immune system, which leads to increased risk of infection, and even death.

Unlike the other therapies, no deaths, no immune suppression, and no other serious vaccine-related side effects were experienced by patients who received the BiovaxID vaccine.

How, then, can there possibly NOT be a need for a treatment that is both effective and — by the FDA's own definition — less toxic than current treatments?

And there's another important consideration. Not every patient responds to every available therapy, nor is there a way to predict which patient will respond to which therapy. That's why we need every available option and why the BiovaxID should be one of them.

In contrast to the FDA, regulators in Europe and Canada recognized the unmet need for the vaccine and support Biovest filing applications to seek its approval. Meanwhile, people here in the U.S. won't be able to get it, even though it was developed in large part with NCI funding — our tax dollars!

And what, if any, implications will this have for vaccines or other therapies that are in the pipeline?

No one knows, but one thing is certain. Behind every statistic that the FDA looks at is a real live person — a mother, a father, a husband, a wife, a friend — who, when faced with cancer, desperately wants every available chance to go on living their lives and loving their families after cancer.

That's why a group of survivors has started a petition asking the FDA to exercise its ability to allow the BiovaxID vaccine a chance for accelerated approval. The petition will be submitted to the FDA as well as to members of Congress who oversee the agency.

If the FDA agrees, that would undoubtedly give investors confidence to commit to the additional trial, and if ultimately approved, patients would then have access to the therapy while the trial is conducted. In other words, the future of a safe, effective treatment for cancer patients will be far more secure if only the FDA will give it a chance.

I encourage you to sign the petition by clicking on this link.. You'll be helping to remind the FDA of its responsibility to patients by agreeing to review therapies that have shown safety and effectiveness during years of clinical trials.

Personally, I hope the petition is successful. As someone who has known the terror of not responding to two therapies prior to getting the one that worked, I can assure you that I desperately wanted every option on the table. Wouldn't you?

Betsy de Parry is the author of Adventures In Cancer Land. Find her on Facebook or email her.

Senior community keeps its residents active and engaged

Mon, 26 Nov, 2012 5:57 a.m.

Karis Jones with the Sanctuary at St. Joseph's Village

This past Thanksgiving Day weekend we aired a special encore program repeating talks with two memorable guests — two very caring people working with seniors in our local area.

Karis Jones is the administrator at the Sanctuary at St. Joseph's Village. This senior community has 94 apartments providing independent and assisted living. The facility is on the campus of St. Joe's Hospital.

Karis works to make sure "sanctuary happens each and every day" within her community. This means creating an experience for elders and their families that celebrate their lives up to this point and making sure they continue to thrive.

It is very much a person-centered approach. The commitment of the full staff is to serve the residents, always listening to their needs. It's all about the residents, honoring and respecting their preferences.

The residents are allowed to do as much of the decision making as possible. Every Tuesday, they meet with the chef and decide on the menu for the following week. The residents also make decisions on the activities offered and the outings scheduled.

This approach keeps the residents more actively involved in their lives and improves their quality of life at the community. As Karis pointed out, decision making by the residents tends to also reduce the number of complaints (or "gifts" as Karis calls them).

The residents at the Sanctuary have a choice of two dining rooms. They use a fresh food approach to their cooking. There is no opening of packages, and the mashed potatoes are made in the kitchen starting with real potatoes. They are even growing some food very locally at the St. Joe's garden. The residents also decided what to plant.

To hear our 13-minute discussion, click the audio link:

Everything Elderly 0609 Karis Jones.mp3">

To get in touch with Karis or the Sanctuary at St. Joseph's Village, call 734-712-1600 or visit the website trinityseniorsanctuary.org.

Elizabeth Hurwitz, Elder Law Attorney

Photos by Sheila Doeden

For our second encore guest, we replayed a very informative chat with Elizabeth Hurwitz, an elder law attorney with her own legal practice in Ann Arbor. Elizabeth works with all sorts of seniors, including those planning ahead to ensure their elder years are smoother and easier, and those suffering a medical crisis and wanting to "put their affairs in order."

Elizabeth emphasized the importance of the two powers of attorney. These are the two legal documents that everyone should definitely complete.

There is the general power of attorney that allows a friend or family member to help with finances and manage day-to-day issues. The medical power of attorney names a trusted individual to affect your medical care, if you are not conscious or able to make decisions.

Elizabeth talked about how these documents aren't just for you; they really help your family and friends. You have made those decisions, and this helps avoid potential conflict and confusion. Without these documents, your loved ones will likely end up going to probate court to determine guardianship and/or conservatorship.

There are misconceptions about probate court. The probate judge is not a magician that will solve all family problems. If a family has been in conflict for some time, they will likely benefit from seeing a family counselor or therapist before going to court.

We also spoke about trusts. Not everyone needs a trust, but they can play a significant role in providing a structure to better protect your assets for your family. Elizabeth said that trusts are not a cookie cutter process. There are many options available and every family has different needs and objectives.

To listen to our 13-minute talk, click the audio link:

Everything Elderly 0114 Elizabeth Hurwitz.mp3">

To contact Elizabeth or her office, call 734-657-0835, or you may visit the website hurwitzlawoffices.com.