Tai Chi class practicing forms.

 Tai chi is an Ancient Chinese martial art over 900 years old and derived from Shaolin Kung Fu which has been practiced over 1500 years.  Not only does Tai Chi teach practical defense methods, it is also used as exercise to promote relaxation and tranquility. Tai Chi’s slow, measured movements, called forms, are ideal for relieving stress and providing a calm atmosphere, but when preformed at full speed the forms are effective in defensive and offensive situations.  The constant weight-shifts of properly preformed Tai Chi condition and strengthen the muscles, ligaments, tendons, ankles, knees, and hips of the lower and upper body, which promotes a healthy body. Tai Chi has been proven to increase oxygen intake, decrease blood pressure, increase range of motion and flexibility in joints, and improve the immune system.

Tom Mintun of Tranquil Pool Martial Arts in Grants Pass is dedicated to the ancient art of Tai Chi. Tom has been training in the methods of Tai Chi for over five years and has been offering classes to the public for free. He teaches in the combat method to achieve proper stances and improve concentration of specific forms.

Instructor Tom Mintun

As an instructor, Tom likes to start class with at least thirty minutes of stepping exercises. These exercises are the foundation for the forms preformed in the martial art and promote balance and strength in the lower body. The class then practices forms or routines, which are Tai Chi moves choreographed in a specific order and style. Tom teaches a thirty-six step form and a more advanced fifty-four step form. Each step is composed of at least four movements and when preformed show an amazing display of balance and strength.

Tom Mintun’s most senior class members perform the martial art with swords. The sword is typically used in combat, but offers much more for practice techniques. The use of the sword requires extreme balance and strength and is only preformed by the most senior members of the class.

Overall, Tai Chi is a great exercise routine but offers much more than the typical workout. One can achieve tranquility through repeated practice and diligence. Classes are held at the YMCA at 6:00 am Tuesdays and Thursdays and at the Grants Pass All Sports Park Sunday, 12:00 noon.  If you would like to take part in this free weekly class,  please visit tranquilpool.org for more information.

Steve from Oregon’s Best Cars

Sponsored by Oregon’s Best Cars - Preventive maintenance now can help ensure worry-free driving this winter. The vacations are over, the kids are back in school, and cooler evenings have begun. Take advantage of the lull to prepare your vehicle for the winter ahead, advice from the pros and the non-profit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Breakdowns, never convenient, can be dangerous in cold weather. The following tips from ASE should give parent and student alike a road map to fall car care.

1.) Read your owner’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s recommended service schedules.

2.) Engine Performance: Have engine drivability problems (hard starts, rough idling, stalling, diminished power, etc.) corrected at a good repair shop. Cold weather will make existing problems worse. Replace dirty filters—air, fuel, PCV, etc.

3.) Fuel: Put a bottle of fuel de-icer in your tank once a month to help keep moisture from freezing in the fuel line.

4.) Oil: Change your oil and oil filter as specified in your manual more often (every 3,000 miles or so) if your driving is mostly stop-and-go or consists of a lot of frequent short trips.

5.) Cooling System: The cooling system should be flushed and refilled as recommended. The level, condition, and concentration of the coolant should be checked periodically. The tightness and condition of drive belts, clamps, and hoses should be checked by a certified auto technician.

6.) Heater/Defroster: The heater and defroster must be in good working condition for passenger comfort and driver visibility.

7.) Windshield Wipers: Replace old blades. Stock up on windshield washer solvent you’ll be surprised how much you use. Carry an ice-scraper.

8.) Battery: The only accurate way to detect a weak battery is with professional equipment. But do-it-yourselfers can do routine maintenance by scrapping away corrosion from posts and cable connections; clean all surfaces; re-tighten all connections. If battery caps are removable, check fluid level monthly.

9.) Lights: Inspect all lights and bulbs; replace burned out bulbs; periodically clean road grime from all lenses with a moistened cloth or towel.

10.) Exhaust System: Your vehicle should be placed on a lift and the exhaust system examined for leaks. The trunk and floorboards should be inspected for small holes. Exhaust fumes can be deadly.

11.) Tires: Worn tires will be of little use in winter weather. Examine tires for remaining tread life, uneven wearing, and cupping; check the sidewalls for cuts and nicks. Check tire pressure once a month. Don’t forget your spare, and be sure the jack is in good condition.

12.) Emergencies: Carry gloves, boots, blankets, flares, a small shovel, sand or kitty litter, tire chains, a flashlight, and a cell phone. Put a few “high-energy” snacks in your glove box.

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) was founded in 1972 as a non-profit, independent organization dedicated to improving the quality of automotive service and repair through the voluntary testing and certification of automotive professionals. Visit www.ase.com for more information.