Norwood Senior Citizens Log Impressive Mileage in Walking Fitness Program-August 14, 1982

Led by 83-Year-Old Tom Mulligan

Recreation Director Robert Ivatts and Selectmen Chairman William F. Butters issued certificates to five people for walking 25 miles, to eight for walking 50 miles and to three for 100 or more miles of walking since the program started two months ago.

Tom Mulligan, 83, of 125 Pleasant St. was honored for the most mileage—177. Mulligan, a worker at the Ellis Nursing Home, appreciated the recognition, but he admitted he didn’t go out of his way for the program. Mulligan says he puts in about five miles a day anyway—program or not. “Always,” he said when asked when he started his routine of long walks. “I’ve always walked a lot.” Mulligan has an advantage over most elderly. His job at the nursing home keeps him busy. He helps out with the Meals on Wheels program, the dry cleaning and the greenhouse, among other duties. Before moving to Pleasant Street, Mulligan made a habit of walking from his former home on Access Road to the center every day, dodging traffic on the Route 1 rotary in the process. Mulligan, who looks trim and healthy, says he can’t understand why more elderly don’t take daily walks. “I’d say it’s about 50-50,” he said. “Those who do seem to enjoy it. I don’t know why some of them don’t.”

Frank Karshis, 68, of 34 Rockhill St. had advice for those who want to join the program. Karshis, who is retired, logged the second greatest distance with 165 miles. He recommends walking around the neighborhood. He suggests that people walk in daylight hours for safety and to let someone know where they are going. He also suggests making acquaintances along the way. “There are a lot of people who can walk and a lot of people who should walk,” Karshis said.

Ivatts said he started the program to encourage the elderly to get out of their homes more and to exercise. “We want to get people to do a little walking and get a little recognition for it,” said Ivatts. “We try to get the people who don’t get out much to get involved in it.” Ivatts said response has been so good, the senior citizens are competing heavily for the best mileage. “It gives them a little competition,” he said. “They’re fighting over the mileage now.” The program works on an honor system. Participants estimate how much they walk and report it regularly. All walking is included, whether it’s while cutting the lawn, shopping or taking a stroll down the street.

Archival Note: This article has been dynamically reconstructed from the original public record print archives of the Patriot Ledger