Just Folks

Just Folks

At the age of 81, Annette Brown of Vian, may have discovered the mythical Fountain of Youth.

But according to Brown, it’s really nothing new and not a big secret, but it is something she enjoys. Brown, who is a member of the Sunshine Seniors exercise and dance group at Gym 64 east of Sallisaw, says exercise is the one thing she has always been dedicated to, because it brings her so much enjoyment.

“We meet from 9 to 10 a.m. five days a week. I really enjoy coming here because I’ve made some new friends, and it’s more than just exercise. We also dance, get together for dinners and birthdays. It’s just a great social network of friends who all enjoy exercise and dance and just being active,” she said.

Brown said she joined Turner Fit- ness years ago. She later joined another gym in Sallisaw, which was also owned by the people at Gym 64.

“I’ve just always enjoyed exercising. I had total hip replacement years ago, but it hasn’t hindered or kept me from exercising,” she said. “Exercise is something I would rather be doing than sitting around watching TV or something else. What’s great about exercising at my age is some Medicare supplement programs will pay for you to exercise. I think that’s great.

“Here, if you sign up for six months, you get one month free, or if you sign up for 10 months, you get two months free.

“I encourage anyone to come and get some exercise. It gives you more energy, and it helps you with your muscles and keeps you healthy. Exercise is good for cardio, strength and balance. I know there’s lots of times I could have fallen, but because I was able to maintain my balance, I was able to keep from falling and catch myself, so it really helps you,” she said.

In addition to her fitness routine, Brown enjoys attending the First Baptist Church in Sallisaw.

“I’m not a teacher or youth leader or anything like that, but my husband and I volunteer for things there when needed,” she said.

She has been helping another church in Fort Smith plan for a trip to Branson.

“I’m really looking forward to that. There’s a few from the gym who are planning to go. We will be leaving on Good Friday,” she said.

Brown was born in Fort Smith. She moved to Vian after meeting her husband, Jim Hamilton, who was from Vian, she said. Together, the couple owned and operated Hamilton Sports Arena, which she still owns today. She is remarried, and she and her husband, Raymond, still operate the arena, she said.

“I used to ride horses, but I don’t anymore. But I still like being around them,” she said.

Brown, a retired school teacher, said she enjoys living in Sequoyah County because of the people and the ideal country way of life.

“I lived in town, but I love being outdoors and living out in the country,” she said. She taught at Roland Schools until she retired 15 years ago.

“I also love spending time with my dog. She’s part Pomeranian and Shitzu. Her name is Sugar Bear,” she said.

Whether it’s good genes or the exercise or the combination of both, Brown is still able to do many things most people her age are limited from doing due to health or other physical ailments.

“I still drive. As a matter of fact, I drove here today,” she said.

Just Folks. Just Folks is Your TIMES way of honoring the regular people of Sequoyah County, recognizing their unique talents, personalities, jobs, abilities, etc. Your TIMES appreciates the cooperation of each Just Folks and the public’s nominations for this feature. If you know of someone you think might be a good story, contact Amie or Lynn at 918-775-4433.