CENTRAL SPEAKS July 17, 2014 • Daily News at CentralSpeaks.com
Healthy Living in Central Pages 5-16
Expansion of Central Police Department $56,983 Council Vote Next Week
Next Tuesday Central’s City Council will consider adding $56,983 to the operating budget of the Central Police Department. Council Member Shane Evans introduced the ordinance to create the first non-elected paid Central Police Department position, an Assistant Chief, at a cost of $43,783 per year, and to move the Police Department to larger offices at an additional cost of $13,200 per year In 2013/14, in addition to the Chief’s Salary, Central taxpayers paid $100,000 to EBRSO for extra duty patrols and $63,060 for the general operation of the Central
Police Department. The budget for general operations was increased in June to $71,965 for 2014/15, and would increase to $128,948 if Central’s new City Council approves the additional funding. Newly elected Chief Salsbury was granted a reduction in pay from $2,208 per month to $99 per month so that his retirement pay and benefits from the BR Police Department would not be affected. Citizens wishing to speak for or against this ordinance are encouraged to attend the Council meeting next Tuesday, July 22nd, at 7 PM at the CHS Auditorium.
The Central Community School Board voted Monday night not to award the contract to construct a parking lot at the abandoned Middle School site at Hooper and Sullivan because they were well over the approved budget. The lot was to have been constructed behind the football stadium
and was expected to cost approximately $400,000. With all bids well over that approved amount, the School Board voted not to make the award. Most of the buildings on the now unused school site are being demolished at this time. No plan was announced to rebid the parking lot construction or to revise the plans.
Parking Lot Bids Over Budget
The Central Community Assistance Foundation (CCAF) is collecting school supplies for students in need. Bring school supplies (and/or gently used uniforms) to the Central Wal Mart on Friday and Saturday, July 18th and 19th, to be distributed to Central students. Most needed items include pencils, crayons, glue, marble composition notebooks, folders, all sizes of notebooks, loose leaf paper, colored pencils, booksacks, pens, and binders. At any time, school supplies may also be dropped
off at Central Raising Cane’s, Central Walgreens, the Central Community School System office on Joor, Bank of Zachary Central Branch, and Ross Tire. Uniforms may be dropped off at Walgreens, Ross Tire, and the CCSS office. CCAF distributes school supplies to Central students (public, private, or homeschooled) who qualify for assistance. Applications for assistance can be picked up at the Central Library on Joor, the CCSS office on Joor, and at local schools.
Laptops for Every Student at Central Middle & High School
At Monday’s meeting the Central Community School Board voted to provide a Dell laptop computer for every student in grades 6 through 12. Each student will be charged a $40 fee with a maximum of $70 per household. This program is a four year commitment of approximately $500,000 per year to lease the laptops, which are to come loaded with the software needed by the student. Over the four year program the School System will pay just over $2 million for the laptop leases and the families of the students will pay about $300,000 in fees.
Coach Sid is Back
Local metal detecting enthusiast and author of Metal Detecting Louisiana, My Stories, Brent Thompson spoke at the CCF Coffee Hour Thursday, July 10. He shared stories about his most interesting metal detecting finds and showed them off to the group. Look for information about the next CCF Coffee Hour in future editions of Central Speaks.
Sports Central, the new and improved version of the Sid Edwards Show returns for week three at 5PM Thursday on WUBR 910 AM. Coach Sid and co-host Les Beuche are broadcasting live from the soonto-be-opened Coaches Grill. Tune in and hear the coaches and athletes that make Friday nights
“Happen” in Central. Get the inside scoop on Central’s returning and new talent as well as a look ahead at the competition for the 2014 season. Coaches Grill is looking forward to opening for business on July 18th. Looking ahead, the Sports Central radio show at Coaches Grill will be “the football place to be” on Thursday nights this fall. Coaches boasts great burgers and wings and over 40 TV’s to catch all the games. The broadcast can also be heard on the TuneIn Radio App on any smartphone, every Thursday at 5PM.
2 CITY
Thursday, July 17, 2014 • CentralSpeaks.com Print Edition
No Statistics + No Plan = No Tax Dollars
If you are convinced that the $1.82 million in property taxes Central residents pay to the EBR Sheriff’s Office does not buy Central good enough police protection, and if you are willing to have more of your tax dollars spent to expand the operations of the Central Police Department, contact your Council Members and ask them to vote to hire an Assistant Chief for $43,783 and move into bigger offices for $13,200. If you want my opinion as to why this would be a mistake, please read on. Where is the Research? No data has been provided to make any logical argument that additional crime protection is needed in Central or that spending my tax dollars in this way would decrease crime. A good starting
point would be crime statistics by category for the incorporated boundaries of Central today, five years ago, and ten years ago. Central may be the safest city in the country… or maybe not… but please show me that before you spend my tax dollars. Shouting “Crime is coming!” does not convince me. Where is the Plan? There has been no longterm Public Safety Plan presented to show where this building up of a paid Central Police Department will be in five or ten years. No ultimate cost per year to the taxpayers has been named. I am naturally suspicious of any government agency that asks for money without a defined long term plan. Based on the cost of full Police Departments across the state, Central simply does not have the budget to support a police department. Have I mentioned that we already pay $1.82 million per year in property taxes to the EBR Sheriff’s Office? What is the Hurry? This funding request came eight days after our new officials
took office. How about those who favor spending tax dollars for this expansion of government first go back and put together a fiscally responsible long term plan that provides crime statistics and trends as well as an analysis of the long term costs to the taxpayers? Take a month or two, or as long as needed. Central has not had a paid Police Department for our first nine years, nor did this area have one for the 100 years before that. Please take some time and do the research. Where are the Answers? Central has built its sound financial base on privatization and on utilizing the Parish-wide services already paid for by our property taxes, including Fire Protection, Waste Collection, Sewerage, and the Sheriff’s Department. Why would we go against this trend and start expanding our government to provide these services? Isn’t this double taxation? Our $1.82 million in property taxes currently gets us a Sheriff’s Substation, 24 hour dispatch, 24 hour patrols, homicide detectives, burglary detectives, a jail for prisoners, and more. Why institute
a separate manned dispatch and expanded offices? Aren’t we paying for this already? Make Your Opinion Known I can support a well run and productive VOLUNTEER Central Police force. I believe the extra neighborhood patrols, traffic calming, and event security has value to this community. However, if you are asking to commit taxpayer dollars to hire officers and expand operations of the Central Police Department to provide some of the same services we now pay EBRSO to provide, you will have to present a convincing and well researched plan before I could support increasing the size of Central’s government. Finally, I keep hearing that the plan will be explained at the Council meeting. Too late for all but the 100 who will attend. The other 26,900 citizens deserve a plan long before the night of the vote. Agree or disagree, I suggest you each contact your Council Members or show up and voice your opinions at next Tuesday’s Council Meeting at 7PM in the CHS Auditorium.
n o o Lag
at the
BREC’s Liberty Lagoon Waterpark presents
“Despicable Me 2” Bring beach towels or blankets. Limited concessions will be sold. Wristbands can be purchased in advance at Liberty Lagoon Mon.-Fri. from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. or Day of event beginning at 10 a.m.
ive 2014 Un Copyright ©
n Lagoo y t r e Lib rpark . Wate ll Ave obde L 1 1 1
di rsal Stu
os
ly 19
Ju from 0 7 - 9:3
$5
erson per p
p.m.
Lagoon For more information, call 225-923-3202 or visit libertylagoon.com
CONTACT Central SpeakS
Email: Info@CentralSpeaks.com Phone: (225) 262-3730 Fax: (888) 220-8396
Published Weekly 51 weeks a year Deadline 12 NOON Tuesdays Article submission is free of charge.
Ads: DeeDee Dupree Editor: Beth Fussell 12023 Sullivan Road P.O. Box 78137 Commentary: Dave Freneaux Production Editor: Central, LA 70818 Central, LA 70837 Dave@CentralSpeaks.com DeeDee@CentralSpeaks.com Beth@CentralSpeaks.com Lindsey Pyburn
CentralSpeaks.com Print Edition • Thursday, July 17, 2014
Have You Seen These Fugitives? www.crimestoppersbr.com Call Toll Free at 1-877-723-7867 Crime Stoppers will pay cash reward for information leading to the arrest of these WANTED FUGITIVES:
KEVIN HAWKINS DOB 06/27/1987 WHITE/MALE 6’02” HGT / 300 WGT BROWN HAIR / BROWN EYES WANTED FOR: SIMPLE BURGLARY OF AN INHABITED DWELLING
BETH ANN HIMEL AKA/ BETH HIMEL COODY DOB 08/26/1972 WHITE/FEMALE 5’07” HGT / 200 WGT BROWN HAIR / HAZEL EYES WANTED FOR: CREATION OR OPERATION OF A CLAN LAB; GROSS LITTERING
If you have any information on these fugitives contact: Crime Stoppers at 344-STOP(7867), text CS225 plus your message to CRIMES (274637) or email us anonymously from our facebook page or website www. crimestoppersbr.com **Remember you do not have to give your name to collect this or any Crime Stoppers Reward but you must call Crime Stoppers ** These fugitives are active as of July 16, 2014
May 2014 Sales Tax Update
From the City of Central
Sales tax revenues within the city of Central were up 5.6% in May 2014 compared to May 2013. Sales tax revenues, excluding motor vehicle sales taxes, within the city totaled $405,886.72 for the month of May 2014. For the current fiscal year starting July 1, 2013 through May 31, 2014, sales tax revenues are up 13.82% compared to the same period in last fiscal year. Motor vehicle sales tax revenues are also up by 21%. This represents eleven straight
months of sales tax increases for the city. The increase in sales taxes can be contributed to more citizens shopping locally as well as better reporting and auditing controls by the City-Parish, which collects sales taxes for all areas of the parish. However, some businesses are not reporting their sales taxes timely. As a result, the city of Central is working with the City-Parish to identify those businesses not reporting sales taxes or failing to submit sales taxes in a timely manner.
Classifieds
Yard Sale: July 19th. 7-2, furniture, appliances, etc. 16415 Pernecia Ave, in Central (Indian Mound)
Garage Sale: 10136 Ardoon. Friday, July 18, 8AM-4PM Vacation Rental: Vacation on the MS Gulf Coast. Beautiful condo 2 bed, 2 1/2 bath, balcony w/ocean view, furnished. Week-end, weekly, monthly rates 225 938 8601, 225 324 0973 For Sale: 12448 Country Estate Dr 3BR, 2BA, den, workshop. $110,000 261-2672, 806-8232. Will owner fin. Commercial Building for Lease: 8419 Joor Rd. 3,000 sq ft total, incl. 1,000 sq ft office space $1,200/month + utilities. Call 225-936-6679 Housekeeping: Honest & dependable. 20 yrs exp. Great rates! Ref. available. Call Bridgett at 225-993-1407.
For Sale: Queen size mattress, box spring, and frame. $100 772-9636
For Rent: Duplex 8550 & 8628 Sully Dr. 2br/ 1ba $725 per month Lewis Companies 225-766-8802 Home FSBO: 16936 Teneiya Ave., Indian Mound Sub. 2800 sq ft. 4 BR/2 1/2B. Beautiful property. Reduced to $269,000. Qualifies for 100% financing w/ $0 down! Call 614-8852. Can be seen at www.fsbobr.com For Sale: Beautiful 4/2.5 2348 sqft $325K in Village Lakes, lake view, FSBOBR.com id#392292 (404)274-3221 Open house Sun 7/20 2-5 CDL Driver Needed: Fair driving record, hours vary. Apply in person at 4300 Groom Rd, Baker, LA or fax resume to (225) 774-8500. Email classifieds@centralspeaks.com. Deadline is Tuesday at NOON.
CITY 3
4 COMMUNITY
CENTRAL COMMUNITY CALENDAR THURSDAY 7/17:
Central Speaks hits the streets Crafting for a Cause, Pride-Chaneyville Library, 1PM Paint-In, Magnolia Methodist Church, 1:30-5PM 3D Diorama Craft, Greenwell Springs Library, 2PM Ballet Presentation, Central Library, 2:30PM Sports Central Radio Show, 910 AM, 5-6PM Live Music with Justin McCain, Caliente Mexican Craving, 6-9PM PJ Storytime, Greenwell Springs Library, 7PM
FRIDAY 7/18:
Stuff the Bus, Central WalMart Paint-in, Magnolia Methodist Church, 9:30AM-12PM Ballet Presentation, Pride-Chaneyville Library, 2:30PM Christmas in July & Book Signing, The Quilt Corner, 5-7PM
SATURDAY 7/19:
Stuff the Bus, Central WalMart Magnolia Methodist Market, 8AM-2PM Free Car Wash, First Baptist Church Central, 9AM-12PM Computer Tutoring, Pride-Chaneyville Library, 11AM Watercolor Basics, Pride-Chaneyville Library, 11AM Multi-Cultural Festival, Greenwell Springs Library, 12PM Teen Geek Trivia, Central Library, 3:30PM
SUNDAY 7/20:
See you at church! The Seekers’ Book Club, Greenwell Springs Library, 3PM Live Music with the Wood Creek Boys, Caliente, 6-8PM
MONDAY 7/21:
The Fiction Writers’ Workshop, Greenwell Springs Library, 7PM
TUESDAY 7/22:
E-books & OverDrive, Central Library, 10AM Teen Halo, Greenwell Springs Library, 4PM Kid’s Night, Meet Elmo and Abby, Caliente, 5-8PM City Council Meeting, CHS Auditorium, 6-7:30PM
WEDNESDAY 7/23:
Healthy Teens on the Scene, Pride-Chaneyville Library, 2PM Hand Quilting for Beginners, Central Library, 6PM
Thursday, July 17, 2014 • CentralSpeaks.com Print Edition
It's Christmas in July at The Quilt Corner! Terri Hoover Dunham will be signing copies of her children's book The Legend of Papa Noel: A Cajun Christmas Story from 5-7pm Friday. Central Chamber of Commerce C4 Report Bombshell Boutique Says “I’m In!”
"Bombshell Boutique is honored to be a member of the Central Chamber of Commerce. My husband and I live here in Central and we love the Central community. The staff and other members of the Central Chamber are incredibly kind and supportive. We are so excited to be a part of and working with other small businesses to keep shoppers in Central. Bombshell is a young contemporary woman's clothing boutique that offers all of the latest fashions in apparel, shoes, accessories, and more... all at affordable prices! We want to thank the community and all of our Bombshell customers for being so supportive! Mandy Chaney, Owner Bombshell Boutique 14790 Wax Rd. Suite 109 Central, LA 70818 Office: 225-938-3812 Member Joined: 2014
CentralSpeaks.com Print Edition • Thursday, July 17, 2014
Healthy Living in Central Health tips & information
brought to you by your local health care companies & sponsored in part by central restaurants in celebration of restaurant week Beau Ideal Salon Central Dental Care Central Drug Store Central Physical Therapy Central Stat Care Debra McCutcheon & Plexus Slim Lake After Hours Moreau Physical Therapy North Point Spa Nursing PRN Planet Beach Rogers Eye Center American Farmhouse Cafe Delphi Crescent Kitchen Day’s Specialty Meats Mike Anderson’s Oak Point Our Place Restaurant Stab’s Steak and Seafood
It’s restaurant week! Visit our local restaurants for affordable lunch specials and delicious dinner options!
Information offered should not replace the advice of a health care professional. See your doctor with any medical issues or questions.
HEALTHY LIVING IN CENTRAL 5
6 CentralSpeaks.com HEALTHY LIVING IN Print CENTRAL Edition • Thursday, March 8, 2012
Thursday, July 17, 2014 • CentralSpeaks.com ANNOUNCEMENTS Print Edition 11
How Much Physical Activity Do You Need?
From CDC.gov/physicalactivity
Children
Children and adolescents should do 60 minutes (1 hour) or more of physical activity each day. This may sound like a lot, but don’t worry! Your child may already be meeting the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans. And, you’ll soon discover all the easy and enjoyable ways to help your child meet the recommendations. Encourage your child to participate in activities that are age-appropriate, enjoyable and offer variety! Just make sure your child or adolescent is doing three types of physical activity: • Aerobic Activity - Aerobic activity should make up most of your child’s 60 or more minutes of physical activity each day. This can include either moderate-intensity aerobic activity, such as brisk walking, or vigorous-intensity activity, such as running. Be sure to include vigorousintensity aerobic activity on at least 3 days per week. • Muscle Strengthening Include muscle strengthening activities, such as gymnastics or push-ups, at least 3 days per week as part of your child’s 60 or more minutes. • Bone Strengthening - Include
bone strengthening activities, such as jumping rope or running, at least 3 days per week as part of your child’s 60 or more minutes.
Adults
Adults need at least 2 hours and 30 minutes (150 minutes) of moderate-intensity aerobic activity (i.e., brisk walking) every week and weight training muscle-strengthening activities on 2 or more days a week that work all major muscle groups (legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders, and arms). OR 1 hour and 15 minutes (75 minutes) of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity (i.e., jogging or running) every week and musclestrengthening activities on 2 or more days a week that work all major muscle groups (legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders, and arms). OR An equivalent mix of moderate- and vigorousintensity aerobic activity and muscle-strengthening activities on 2 or more days a week that work all major muscle groups (legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders, and arms). We know 150 minutes each week sounds like a lot of time, but it’s not. That’s 2 hours and 30 minutes, about the same amount of time you might spend watching
a movie. The good news is that you can spread your activity out during the week, so you don’t have to do it all at once. You can even break it up into smaller chunks of time during the day. It’s about what works best for you, as long as you’re doing physical activity at a moderate or vigorous effort for at least 10 minutes at a time. Older adults should increase their activity to 5 hours (300 minutes) each week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity and muscle-strengthening activities on 2 or more days a week that work all major muscle groups (legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders, and arms). OR 2 hours and 30 minutes (150 minutes) each week of vigrous-intensity aerobic activity and muscle-strengthening activities on 2 or more days a week that work all major muscle groups (legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders, and arms). OR An equivalent mix of moderateand vigorous-intensity aerobic activity and muscle-strengthening activities on 2 or more days a week that work all major muscle groups (legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders, and arms). As an older adult, regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do for your health. It can prevent many
of the health problems that seem to come with age. It also helps your muscles grow stronger so you can keep doing your day-today activities without becoming dependent on others. Not doing any physical activity can be bad for you, no matter your age or health condition. Keep in mind, some physical activity is better than none at all. Your health benefits will also increase with the more physical activity that you do. More time equals more health benefits - If you go beyond 300 minutes a week of moderateintensity activity, or 150 minutes a week of vigorous-intensity activity, you’ll gain even more health benefits. If you are an adult with a disability, regular physical activity can provide you with important health benefits, like a stronger heart, lungs, and muscles, improved mental health, and a better ability to do everyday tasks. It’s best to talk with your health care provider before you begin a physical activity routine. Try to get advice from a professional with experience in physical activity and disability. They can tell you more about the amounts and types of physical activity that are appropriate for you and your abilities.
HEALTHY LIVING IN CENTRAL 7
CentralSpeaks.com Print Edition • Thursday, July 17, 2014
Healthy Recipe: Salmon Cakes Healthy Recipe: Freeze-Me Granola Bars and spray with nonstick cooking spray. When skillet is hot, sprinkle Makes 10-12 patties crushed crackers into salmon • 1 can Salmon mixture and stir well again. Once • ½ medium onion, diced skillet is warm, use your hands to • ½ jalapeño, diced (optional) form salmon mixture into small • ¼ tsp. black pepper patties and grill 6-8 minutes, turning • ¼ tsp. salt once halfway through. Repeat this • 1 tsp. Italian Seasoning process until all patties are grilled! • 2 eggs • Couple of dashes of hot sauce Serve alongside vegetables of choice, such as grilled asparagus, (optional) • 1 ½ oz. Wheat Thins (about 25 sautéed squash, green beans or baked sweet potatoes! If in a pinch crackers), crushed Place entire can of salmon in a for time, simply pop a steamable medium sized mixing bowl. Remove bag of veggies in the microwave for the spine of the fish with your hands. a quick and healthy dinner! You can leave in the smaller bones *Disclaimer: I am not a licensed physician as they are crushed easily and very or Registered Dietitian. The content of these good nutritionally because of their recipes are not to be construed as medical high Calcium content. Add in onion, advice or nutritional counseling. Please jalapeño, and seasonings. Stir well. consult a Registered Dietitian or Doctor Add in eggs and hot sauce and mix for further questions or before making any again. Place skillet on medium heat serious changes in your diet. By Rachel F. Johnson
Healthy Recipe: Snack-Sized Guacamole
By Rachel F. Johnson
This guacamole is a perfect snack for one and is made at home in just 5 minutes. ½ of a medium avocado 1 Tbsp. finely chopped red onion 3 cherry tomatoes, finely chopped 1 tsp. lemon juice ½ tsp. minced garlic Pepper to taste In a small bowl, mash the avocado, toss in the other ingredients and mix well. Pepper to taste. Serve alongside 15 multi-grain crisp
crackers (15 crackers are only 70 kcal) for a filling snack. This can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator in small Tupperware for an easy grab-and-go snack on busy days or as a mayonnaise replacement on sandwiches and burgers.
*Disclaimer: I am not a licensed physician or Registered Dietitian. The content of these recipes are not to be construed as medical advice or nutritional counseling. Please consult a Registered Dietitian or Doctor for further questions or before making any serious changes in your diet.
By Rachel F. Johnson
Morning is my favorite time of the day, especially when I can sit at the table and eat my breakfast while drinking a cup of coffee. I love to take a little time in the morning to make a to-do list for the day ahead and get my schedule in order. But sometimes, I spend so much time making my breakfast or packing lunches in the morning, that I don’t get time to relax or eat my breakfast at home. I end up jamming it into my face while I am in the car, frantically on my way to work or school or whatever errands I need to do. And, while cereal is a quick breakfast option, many are made with lots of added sugars, not enough protein, and they don’t keep me full for long. Plus, spilling milk in the car is no fun! That’s why I have been keeping a batch of these granola bars in the freezer! They are cheap to make, jam packed with fiber and protein to keep hunger at bay, and they are extremely tasty! Whip up a batch (or two!) on Sunday for a week of breakfasts on the go! Makes 12 bars 1 cup whole natural almonds 1 cup roasted peanuts
1 cup old fashioned oats (GF optional) 1 cup chopped dried fruit of choice ¼ cup + 2 Tbsp Honey 3 Tbsp. Coconut Oil or Butter ½ tsp. Salt ¼ tsp. vanilla extract ¼ tsp. almond extract Place ½ cup almonds, peanuts and oats in a food processor or high speed blender. Process until fine. Pour into a large bowl. Roughly chop the remaining almonds and peanuts and add to the bowl. Add remaining oats and dried fruit (I used ½ cup dried cranberries and ½ cup dried apricots!) Mix and set aside. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, coconut oil (or butter), salt and extracts. Stir until the mixture melts and begins to foam slightly. Pour over nut mixture in bowl and mix well. Line a 9×13 sheet with saran wrap and allow enough to lie over the sides of the pan. Pour granola into pan on top of saran. Using another piece of saran wrap, cover the granola and, using your hands, press hard to push it into the bottom of the pan. Place in freezer for 2-4 hours, or overnight. Remove from pan and slice into 12 pieces. Wrap each piece individually with saran and store in the freezer for breakfast or post-workout snack! *Disclaimer: I am not a licensed physician or Registered Dietitian. The content of these recipes are not to be construed as medical advice or nutritional counseling. Please consult a Registered Dietitian or Doctor for further questions or before making any serious changes in your diet.
8 HEALTHY LIVING IN CENTRAL
Snack Well at Home
You will eat it if it is readily available. Despite your best intentions, having a box of cookies at home means that you will probably give in to temptation at some point and help yourself to them. Avoid temptation altogether by not bringing unhealthy snack foods home from the store. Even if you buy it for someone else in the house to eat, you make it much harder to resist junk food if it is always around. When considering healthy snacks, don’t just buy a bag of carrots or a melon and expect that you will eat that as your snack later. You will open your fridge when you are hungry and choose the easiest option to eat. So instead, as soon as you bring home that bag of carrots or that cantaloupe, cut the food up into manageable pieces and store it in a container in the fridge. That way, these healthy options will be readily available when you are hungry, so you are more likely to eat them.
Healthy Eating When Dining Out
When you are trying to eat healthy, you can still go out to eat. Just make an effort to make healthy choices when you order and when you eat. Here are a few suggestions to help you make healthy decisions at a restaurant. • If you are having coffee, go for skim or soy milk instead of whole milk or cream. • Cut the visible fat from your meat before you eat. • Ask if the restaurant will leave off heavy toppings, like butter, gravy, or cream sauces. • Request your salad dressing on the side, and use sparingly. • Some foods are healthier than others in the way that they are prepared. Choose options that
are broiled, baked, roasted, poached, lightly sauteed, or steamed. • Make simple substitutions for side items, like steamed veggies instead of fries. • If the serving size is large, or you know you cannot or should not finish the whole plate of food, ask for a to-go box when your food arrives, and place half of your food in the box before you start eating. This is an easy way to be sure you do not overeat, and you will have a meal for later. For more healthy suggestions, visit the National Heart, Lung, & Blood Institute website at www. nhlbi.nih.gov.
Thursday, July 17, 2014 • CentralSpeaks.com Print Edition
Simple Substitutions for a Healthier Diet
A simple way to live a healthier lifestyle is through small, easy food substitutions that will gradually lead you to better eating habits. Here are a few baby steps that will make your diet healthier and cut unnecessary sugars and calories from your life. You can be just as full and satisfied while slowly improving your food choices. Fruit is a great substitute, especially in snacks and desserts. Fruit is more filling than chips or cookies, and it has things your body needs like vitamins, water, and fiber. You will save yourself fat content and calories, and often even money, by choosing a piece of fruit over a packaged snack or dessert food. Soda is a major culprit in an unhealthy diet. Most sodas have high levels of sugar, and even diet sodas have added chemicals that are not helping your body. Habitual soda drinkers generally find it very difficult to cut all soda from their diet at once, so try swapping one soda a day for a glass of water. The water will hydrate you better than a soda without the harmful chemicals or sugars. Your teeth will thank you, as well, when you cut down
on the sodas that eat away at your enamel and the sugars that can contribute to cavities. After you get used to drinking one less soda a day, take it a step further until you view soda as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple. Replacing a starch with a vegetable at dinner will save you calories, add nutritional value, and usually save you added salt and oil, as well. Choosing raw or steamed veggies, rather than those fried or cooked in sauces, will make the most positive difference in your diet. When preparing salad, try lettuces other than iceberg. Romaine lettuce, for instance, is much higher in vitamins and is even a good source of protein, calcium, and iron. Experiment with different lettuces to find the varieties that you like best. Pay attention to your available options when buying packaged food. When buying canned fruit, choose fruit canned in juice rather than in syrup. Choose canned vegetables with no added salt. Choose tuna canned in water rather than in oil. When a reduced sodium option is available for a soup or broth, go that route.
CentralSpeaks.com Print Edition • Thursday, July 17, 2014
Healthy Weight Loss Options A Scientific Approach By Kara Kinchen, North Point Spa
Experts agree, losing those extra pounds and maintaining a healthy weight overall improves well-being, mood and energy. Find the weight loss program that is "Ideal" for you. Ideal Protein is a four phase weight loss program that is medically supervised for maximum results. It contains two components - weight loss and a healthier lifestyle education to assist you in maintaining your results after dieting. With weekly weigh ins and Ideal Protein Coaching advice dieters remain accountable and encouraged. On average dieters lose between 2-7 pounds per week. Healthy tip: stay hydrated and drink up. Staying hydrated keeps your energy up, reduces headaches and can curb your appetite.
Plexus Stats and Benefits
Yes, it’s that crazy Plexus lady again! Quick! Turn around, look the other way!!! She’s at it again, singing about that Pink Drink and all the crazy things its helps with!! How annoying! Why yes, yes it IS me and yes, I know the look! But no worries, because I have great information to share that may help you or someone you love! But first, here’s the sobering truth. 8 out of 10 Americans over the age of 25 are overweight. 174 million Americans are overweight. So what do we do? We starve. We restrict. We diet. We buy all those crazy wackadoodle contraptions that help you exercise while you are sleeping. Or something like that. Here’s another truth. 95% of all diets and weight loss programs fail. Restrict now, overcompensate later. It’s the lifestyle changes that are necessary to get healthier! Plexus can help you with your lifestyle change. Plexus is not a weight loss program! Shock! Horror! But yes, it’s true. Instead, our products are the tools to assist you with healthier choices! Our signature product, Plexus Slim is a powder drink that is added to water and drank once a day. Not a
diet, no meal replacements, no shakes. Our drink is Diabetic friendly, with no added caffeine and is sweetened with Stevia, with a pomegranate flavor. Plexus helps people manage their blood sugar levels, promote healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels, increase willpower over food and reduces binge eating. But don’t take my word for it! Just read the Plexus stats- In a company survey asking why Ambassadors are with Plexus, an astounding 93% said because the products work! And about our company – 600% growth in 2013. Ranked in the top 25% of fast growing companies recognized by Inc. magazine. Or just ask Success from Home Magazine. Plexus Worldwide was featured extensively in their July 2014 issue, with informative details and motivating stories of health and wellness! So don’t just take the word of a crazy Plexus lady! Our products come with a 60 day money back guarantee. Risk free, no questions asked. And don’t even get me started on our pain relief products!
Debra McCutcheon Independent Ambassador, Plexus Worldwide, Inc.
Healthy Weight Loss
If you are trying to lose weight, a good idea is to talk to your doctor about your weight goals and healthy ways to reach them. Your doctor is familiar with your medical history and your lifestyle, so he or she can be a great help in helping you keep your goals both realistic and safe. Exercise can play a role in healthy weight loss, though again, you should consult with your doctor before beginning an exercise regimen. Exercise is just one piece of the puzzle, however. Going for a walk or going to the gym is certainly a healthy decision, but without making healthy changes in your diet, you may not get the results you are looking for. Regular physical activity and healthy food choices go hand in hand, not just in weight loss, but in getting your body to a healthy state that will benefit you for years to come. Neither exercise nor diet should be approached in an aggressive, drastic way. If your body
is not used to regular exercise, start with light activities and work your way up so that it becomes a lifestyle rather than a physically exhausting endeavor that you cannot keep up. In the same way, your food choices should be viewed as positive life changes rather than temporary, unsustainable crash diets. Choose to eat healthily rather than starving your body of important nutrients. You will find that eating in a way that makes you feel physically good and strong will be encouragement in itself to keep up healthy eating habits. Lastly, set small, realistic goals. Rather than telling yourself that you will lose ten pounds in a certain amount of time, choose goals that you have direct control over. Tell yourself that you will exercise five times this week or that you will drink eight cups of water today. If you continue to set healthy lifestyle goals for yourself, and you continue to be serious about meeting those goals, a healthier body will naturally follow.
HEALTHY LIVING IN CENTRAL 9
10 HEALTHY LIVING IN CENTRAL
Thursday, July 17, 2014 • CentralSpeaks.com Print Edition
Red Light Therapy - What Is It and What Are the Health Benefits?
Courtesy of Amy Betz Abadie - Planet Beach Automated Spa Central
Red Light Therapy is a technology little known to many people. It has both cosmetic and healing effects. The word “healing” simply means “the natural process by which the body repairs itself.” This is what one can expect when experiencing a Red Light Therapy session. Red Light Therapy was initially discovered by NASA when astronauts were searching for a method to heal wounds in space. Today, Red Light Therapy is used in the medical field as well as the spa and beauty industry for both cosmetic and medicinal purposes. The recent popularity of Red Light Therapy is a direct result of its ability to reduce the appearance of fine lines from aging, sun damage, and skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Some of the
other health benefits include providing relief from chronic and acute pain including muscle pain, joint pain, arthritis, high blood pressure, tissue and nerve damage, and decreased injury healing time. It is also now used by professional athletes to promote healing with powerful results. Because Red Light Therapy triggers the body’s own defenses, it actually treats the sources of pain and doesn’t just mask the symptoms. Providing relief from pain and discomfort, this treatment is preferred by caregivers and patients alike as it is non-invasive, doesn’t require surgery and has no known side effects. Red Light Therapy is not a quick fix, but rather a gradual self-repair of the skin damage done over time. Results will depend on how often one has therapy sessions, how much skin damage is in need of repair, one’s age, and skin type. Noticeable results will require a commitment of at least three times a week for 8-10 weeks. This is what will separate those who benefit from Red Light Therapy and those who will not.
Massage Therapy Facts & Benefits Courtesy of Beau Ideal Salon
• It is a healing method that dates back thousands of years with documentation from all over the world. • It is the third most commonly used form of alternative therapy in America. • It is a form of therapeutic comfort and acceptance by the practitioner to the client. • It has an enormous impact on your health and wellbeing of mind and body. • 1 hour of massage is equal to 8 hours of sleep. • Improves the quality of sleep. • It improves posture. • It promotes deeper and easier breathing. • It relaxes muscles relieving aches and pains improving range of motion. • Stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel good chemical. • Brings the mind to a deep level of relaxation , alleviating depression and
anxiety. • Reduces the heart rate and lowers blood pressure. • Relieves stress and hypertension. • It relieves headaches and migraines. • It increases blood and lymph circulation. • It removes toxins from tissue. • It provides a boost to the immune system providing an increase of oxygen and nutrients to tissue and vital organs. • Stimulates and strengthens the nervous system. • Reduces healing time after an injury. • Human touch increases hemoglobin levels in the blood. • Before an athletic event, massage can make an athlete more flexible, enhancing speed and power, and lessens the possibility of injury. • Not every massage therapist is a master of the body.
Restaurant week is this week! Celebrate by visiting our local restaurants this weekend. Many of our restaurants feature lunch or dinner specials, offering affordable or healthier options for your family. Try out a new restaurant or check out a different menu item at your tried and true favorite place.
HEALTHY LIVING IN CENTRAL 11
CentralSpeaks.com Print Edition • Thursday, July 17, 2014
Heart Healthy: Heart Attack Stay Active As You Get Older Signs, Symptoms, and Prevention Find more tips at www.HealthFinder.gov.
From the Center for Disease Control
The five major symptoms of a heart attack are: 1. Pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck, or back. 2. Feeling weak, light-headed, or faint. 3. Chest pain or discomfort. 4. Pain or discomfort in arms or shoulder. 5. Shortness of breath. If you think that you or someone you know is having a heart attack, you should call 9–1–1 immediately. Heart Attack Signs: If the blood supply to the heart muscle is cut off, a heart attack can result. Cells in the heart muscle do not receive enough oxygen and begin to die. The more time that passes without treatment to restore blood flow, the greater the damage to the heart. Having high blood pressure or high blood cholesterol, smoking, increased age, physical inactivity, unhealthy diet, and having had a previous heart attack or family history of stroke, obesity, or diabetes can increase a person's chances of having a heart attack. According to the American Heart Association, about 785,000 Americans have an initial heart attack and another 470,000 have a recurrent heart attack each year.1 According to a CDC report,2 almost
half of the cardiac deaths in 1999 occurred before emergency services and hospital treatment could be administered. It is important to recognize the signs of a heart attack and to act immediately by calling 9–1–1. A person's chances of surviving a heart attack are increased if emergency treatment is given to the victim as soon as possible. Heart Attack Prevention: Live a Healthy Lifestyle. Eat a healthy diet. Be sure to eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Eating foods low in saturated fat and cholesterol and high in fiber can help prevent high blood cholesterol. Limiting salt or sodium in your diet can also lower your blood pressure. Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight or obese can increase your risk for heart disease. Exercise regularly. The Surgeon General recommends adults engage in moderate-intensity exercise for 2 hours and 30 minutes every week. Don’t smoke. Cigarette smoking greatly increases your risk for heart disease. If you do smoke, quitting will lower your risk for heart disease. Your doctor can suggest ways to help you quit. Limit alcohol use. Avoid drinking too much alcohol, which causes high blood pressure.
Physical activity is good for people of all ages. Staying active can help: • Lower your risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and some types of cancer • Improve your strength and balance so you can prevent injuries and stay independent • Reduce symptoms of depression • Improve your ability to think, learn, and make decisions Before you begin... • If you have a health problem like heart disease, diabetes, or obesity, talk to your doctor about the types and amounts of physical activity that are right for you. Aim for 2 hours and 30 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activities. • Start slowly. Begin with 10 minutes of aerobic activity and gradually build up to doing 30 minutes on most days of the week. • Choose activities that make your heart beat faster – like walking fast, dancing, or raking leaves. • Tell your doctor if you have shortness of breath, chest pain, or unplanned weight loss. Do strengthening activities 2 days a week. • Try using exercise bands or lifting hand weights. You can also use cans of food as weights. • Breathe out as you lift the weight, and breathe in as you lower it. Holding your breath can cause
• • •
•
changes in your blood pressure. Do balance activities 3 or more days a week. Practice standing on one foot (hold onto a chair if you need to at first). Stand up from a sitting position without using your hands. Learn tai chi, a Chinese mind-body exercise that involves moving the body slowly and gently. Sign up for a yoga class, or try following a yoga video at home.
12 HEALTHY LIVING IN CENTRAL
Thursday, July 17, 2014 • CentralSpeaks.com Print Edition
Screening for the Right Things at the Right Time
From the National Institutes of Health (NIH)
All adults should visit their health care provider from time to time, even if they are healthy. The purpose of these visits is to: • screen for diseases • assess risk of future medical problems • encourage a healthy lifestyle • update vaccinations • maintain a relationship with a doctor or nurse in case of an illness Even if you feel fine, it is still important to see your health care provider regularly to check for potential problems. Most people who have high blood pressure don’t even know it. The only way to find out is to have your blood pressure checked regularly. High blood sugar and high cholesterol levels often do not cause any symptoms until the disease becomes advanced. There are specific times when you should see your health care provider. Age specific guidelines are as follows: Women Ages 18-39: Have your blood pressure checked every 2 years unless it is 120-139/80-89 Hg or higher. Then have it checked every year. Watch for blood pressure screenings in your area. Ask your health care provider if you can stop in to have your blood pressure checked. Check your blood pressure using the automated machines at local grocery stores and pharmacies. If the top number (systolic number) is greater than 130 or the bottom number (diastolic number) is greater than 85, call your doctor or nurse. If you have diabetes, heart disease, kidney problems, or
certain other conditions, you may need to be monitored more closely. Between age 20 and 45, you should be screened if you have a higher risk for heart disease. If you have diabetes, heart disease, kidney problems, or certain other conditions, you may need to be monitored more closely. If your blood pressure is above 135/80, your health care provider will test your blood sugar levels for diabetes. Go to the dentist every year for an exam and cleaning. If you have vision problems, have an eye exam every 2 years. You should receive a flu vaccine every year. After age 19, you should have one tetanusdiphtheria and acellular pertussis (TdAP) vaccine as one of your tetanus-diphtheria vaccines. You should have a tetanus-diphtheria booster every 10 years. You should ask your doctor or nurse about the vaccine against human papilloma virus (HPV) if you are between ages 18 and 26. You should receive two doses of varicella vaccine if you were born after 1980 and never had chickenpox. Your doctor or nurse may recommend other immunizations if you are at high risk for certain conditions, such as pneumonia. You should have two physical exams in your 20s. Healthy young people do not need most blood tests. Your height, weight, and body mass index (BMI) should be checked at every exam. Your doctor or nurse may ask you about depression, diet and exercise, alcohol and tobacco use, and safety such as seat belts and
smoke detectors. Women may do a monthly breast self-exam. Women should contact their health care provider immediately if they notice a change in their breasts, whether or not they do breast self-exams. A complete breast exam should be done by a health care provider every 3 years for women ages 20-40. Pelvic exams and Pap smears should start within 3 years after first having vaginal intercourse or by age 21. Beginning at age 21, women should have a pelvic exam and Pap smear every 2 years to check for cervical cancer. If you are over age 30 or your Pap smears have been negative three times in a row, your doctor or nurse may tell you that you only need a Pap smear every 3 years. Women who have had a total hysterectomy (uterus and cervix removed) may choose not to have Pap smears. Women who are sexually active should be screened for chlamydia infection. This can be done during a pelvic exam. Your provider will tell you how to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) if you are sexually active. Your health care provider will ask you questions about alcohol and tobacco, and may ask you about depression. Men Ages 18-39: Have your blood pressure checked every 2 years unless it is 120-139/80-89 Hg or higher. Then have it checked every year. Watch for blood pressure screenings in your area. Ask your health care provider if you can stop in to have your blood pressure checked. Check your blood pressure using the automated
machines at local grocery stores and pharmacies. If the top number (systolic number) is greater than 130 or the bottom number (diastolic number) is greater than 85, call your doctor. If you have diabetes, heart disease, kidney problems, or certain other conditions, you may need to be monitored more closely. Men over age 34 should be checked every 5 years for cholesterol and heart disease. If you have risk factors for heart disease, such as diabetes, start getting screened earlier, at age 20. If you have diabetes, heart disease, kidney problems, or certain other conditions, you may need to be monitored more closely. Go to the dentist every year for an exam and cleaning. If you have vision problems, have an eye exam every 2 years. After age 19, you should have a tetanus-diphtheria and acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccine once as part of your tetanus-diphtheria vaccines. You should have a tetanus-diphtheria booster every 10 years. You should get a flu shot each year. You should get the HPV vaccine if you have not already. Your doctor may recommend other immunizations if you have certain medical conditions, such as diabetes. Depending on your lifestyle and medical history, you may need to be screened for infections such as syphilis, chlamydia, and HIV, as well as other infections. Preventive health visits should be every 2 years, and may include checking height and weight, screening for alcohol and tobacco use, screening for depression.
HEALTHY LIVING IN CENTRAL 13
CentralSpeaks.com Print Edition • Thursday, July 17, 2014
Screening for the Right Things at the Right Time, Cont.
Women Ages 40-64: Have your blood pressure checked every 2 years unless it is 120139/80-89 Hg or higher. Then have it checked every year. Watch for blood pressure screenings in your area. Ask your health care provider if you can stop in to have your blood pressure checked. Check your blood pressure using the automated machines at local grocery stores and pharmacies. If the top number (systolic number) is greater than 130 or the bottom number (diastolic number) is greater than 85, call your doctor’s office. If you have diabetes, heart disease, kidney problems, or certain other conditions, you may need to be monitored more closely. Women over age 44 should have cholesterol checked every 5 years. If you have diabetes, heart disease, kidney problems, or certain other conditions, you may need to be monitored more closely. If your blood pressure is above 135/80, your health care provider will test your blood sugar levels for diabetes. Colon cancer screening: People between the ages of 50 and 75 should be screened for colorectal cancer. This may involve a stool test done every year, flexible sigmoidoscopy every 5 years along with a stool guaiac test, colonoscopy every 10 years, doublecontrast barium enema every 5 years, computed tomographic colonography (virtual colonoscopy) every 5 years. People with risk factors for colon cancer such as ulcerative colitis, a personal or family history of colorectal cancer, or a history of large colorectal adenomas may need a colonoscopy more often.
Go to the dentist every year for an exam and cleaning. Have an eye exam every 2 years. Once you turn 45, make sure that your health care provider checks for glaucoma. You should receive a flu vaccine every year. Ask your doctor if you should get a vaccine to reduce your risk of pneumonia. You should have a tetanus-diphtheria and acellular pertussis (TdAP) vaccine once as part of your tetanus-diphtheria vaccines. You should have a tetanus-diphtheria booster every 10 years. You may get a shingles or herpes zoster vaccination once after age 60. Have a physical exam every 1-5 years. Your height, weight, and body mass index (BMI) should be checked at each exam. Routine diagnostic tests are not recommended. Women may do a monthly breast self-exam. Women should contact their doctor immediately if they notice a change in their breasts, whether or not they do self exams. A health care provider should do a complete breast exam every year. Women over age 40 should have a mammogram done every 1-2 years, depending on their risk factors, to check for breast cancer. All postmenopausal women with fractures should have a bone density test (DEXA scan) to test for Osteoporosis. Women under age 65 who have risk factors for osteoporosis should be screened. Pap smears should be done once every 2 - 3 years. Pelvic exams may be done more often to check for other disorders. If your Pap smears have been normal three times in a row, your doctor may tell you that you only
need a Pap smear once every 3 years. Women who have had a total hysterectomy (uterus and cervix removed) may choose not to have Pap smears. Women who are sexually active should be screened for chlamydia infection. This can be done during a pelvic exam. Your health care provider will discuss how to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) with you if you are sexually active. Your health care provider will ask you questions about alcohol and tobacco, and may ask you about depression. Men Ages 40-64: Have your blood pressure checked every 2 years unless it is 120139/80-89 Hg or higher. Then have it checked every year. Watch for blood pressure screenings in your area. Ask your health care provider if you can stop in to have your blood pressure checked. Check your blood pressure using the automated machines at local grocery stores and pharmacies. If the top number (systolic number) is greater than 130 or the bottom number (diastolic number) is greater than 85, call your doctor. If you have diabetes, heart disease, kidney problems, or certain other conditions, you may need to be monitored more closely. Men over age 34 should have a cholesterol screening and be checked for heart disease every 5 years. If you have diabetes, heart disease, kidney problems, or certain other conditions, you may need to be monitored more closely. Some men should consider taking aspirin to prevent heart attacks. People between ages 50 and 75 should be screened for colorectal cancer. This may involve a stool test done every year, flexible sigmoidoscopy every 5 years along
with a stool occult blood test, colonoscopy every 10 years. People with risk factors for colon cancer, such as ulcerative colitis, a personal or family history of colorectal cancer, or a history of large colorectal adenomas may need a colonoscopy more often. Go to the dentist every year for an exam and cleaning. If you have vision problems, continue to have an eye exam every 2 years. The benefit of screening for glaucoma is unclear. You should receive a flu vaccine every year. Your doctor may recommend other vaccinations if you have certain medical conditions, such as diabetes. You should have a tetanusdiphtheria booster vaccination every 10 years. If you have not received a tetanus-diphtheria and acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccine as one of your tetanus-diphtheria vaccines, you should have it once. You may get a shingles or herpes zoster vaccination once after age 60. All men ages 50 to 70 with risk factors for osteoporosis should discuss screening with their doctor. Preventive health visit every 2 years until age 50, and then once a year, should include checking height and weight, screening for alcohol and tobacco use, screening for depression. Routine diagnostic tests are not recommended. Most men age 50 or older should discuss screening for prostate cancer with their health care provider. African-American men and those with a family history of prostate cancer should discuss screening at age 45. During screening, a PSA blood test is done.
14 HEALTHY LIVING IN CENTRAL
Thursday, July 17, 2014 • CentralSpeaks.com Print Edition
Screening for the Right Things at the Right Time, Cont.
Women over 65: Have your blood pressure checked every year. If you have diabetes, heart disease, kidney problems, or certain other conditions, you may need to be watched more closely. If your cholesterol level is normal, have it rechecked every 3-5 years. If you have diabetes, heart disease, kidney problems, or certain other conditions, you may need to be monitored more closely. Until age 75, one of the following screening tests should be done: Virtual colonoscopy (computed tomographic colonography) every 5 years, A stool test every year, Flexible sigmoidoscopy every 5 years along with a stool guaiac test, Colonoscopy every 10 years. Go to the dentist every year for an exam and cleaning. If your blood pressure is above 135/80, your health care provider will test your blood sugar levels for diabetes. Note: Patients with risk factors for colon cancer, including ulcerative colitis, a personal or family history of colorectal cancer, or a history of large colorectal adenomas may need a colonoscopy more often. Have an eye exam every 2 years. Make sure your health care provider checks for glaucoma. Have your hearing tested every year. If you are over age 65, get a
pneumococcal vaccine if you have never had before, or if you received one more than 5 years before you turned 65. Get a flu shot every year. Get a tetanus-diphtheria booster every 10 years. You may get a shingles or herpes zoster vaccination once after age 60. Have a yearly physical exam. With each exam, you should have your height, weight, and body mass index (BMI) checked. Routine diagnostic tests are not recommended unless your doctor finds a problem. Your health care provider will ask you questions about alcohol and tobacco use, your diet, exercise, safety such as seat belt use, and may ask you about depression Women may do a monthly breast self-exam. Contact your doctor or nurse immediately if you notice a change in your breasts, whether or not you do self exams. A health care provider should do a complete breast exam every year. Women should have a mammogram done every 1-2 years, depending on their risk factors, to check for breast cancer. All women should have a bone density test (DEXA scan). Ask your doctor or nurse about how much calcium you need and what exercises can help prevent osteoporosis. After age 65, most women can stop having Pap smears as long as they have had three negative tests within
the past 10 years. Men over 65: Men ages 65 to 75 who have smoked should have an ultrasound done to screen for abdominal aortic aneurysms. Other men should discuss this screening with their health care provider. Have your blood pressure checked every year. If you have diabetes, heart disease, kidney problems, or certain other conditions, you may need to be checked more often. Cholesterol should be rechecked every 5 years if levels are normal. If you have diabetes, heart disease, kidney problems, or certain other conditions, you may need to checked more often. Some men should consider taking aspirin to prevent heart attacks. Check with your doctor before starting. People from age 50 to 75 should be screened for colorectal cancer. A stool occult blood test should be done every year. Flexible sigmoidoscopy every 5 years. Colonoscopy every 10 years. People with risk factors for colon cancer, such as ulcerative colitis, a family history of colorectal cancer, or a family history of large colorectal adenomas may need a colonoscopy more often. After age 75, you should discuss colon cancer screening with your doctor. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends stopping colon cancer
screening after age 85. Go to the dentist every year for an exam and cleaning. Have an eye exam every 2 years if you have vision problems or glaucoma risk. If you are age 65 or older, get a pneumococcal vaccine if you have never had one, or it has been more than 5 years since you had the vaccine. You should get a flu shot each year. Get a tetanus-diphtheria booster every 10 years. You may get a shingles or herpes zoster vaccination after age 60. You may need to be screened for infections such as syphilis, chlamydia, and other infections. Screening will depend on your lifestyle and medical history. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends screening all adults up to age 65 for HIV infection unless the prevalence is known to be less than 1 in 1000 people. All men over age 65 with risk factors for osteoporosis should check with their doctor about screening. All men age 50 or older should talk to their doctor about prostate cancer screening. If screening is done, a PSA test is the best method. Have yearly screenings. Your weight and height will be checked. You will be screened for alcohol and tobacco use and for depression. You will go over your medicines and risk of interactions. You will be checked for hearing loss.
HEALTHY LIVING IN CENTRAL 15
CentralSpeaks.com Print Edition • Thursday, July 17, 2014
Checkup Checklist
Stay Fit: 5 Steps to Keep You Healthy at Work
Things to Do before Your Next Checkup From the Center for Disease Control
Getting regular checkups is one of many things you can do to help stay healthy and prevent disease and disability. Before your next checkup, be sure to do these four things: Review your family health history. Are there any new conditions or diseases that have occurred in your close relatives since your last visit? If so, let your health care provider know, Family history might influence your risk of developing heart disease, stroke, diabetes, or cancer. Your provider will assess your risk of disease based on your family history and other factors. Your provider may also recommend things you can do to help prevent disease, such as exercising more, changing your diet, or using screening tests to help detect disease early. Find out if you are due for any general screenings or vaccinations. Have you had the recommended screening tests based on your age, general health, family history, and lifestyle? Check with your health care provider to see if it is time for any vaccinations, follow-up exams, or tests. Write down a list of questions to take with you. Review any existing health problems and note any changes. Have you noticed any body changes, including lumps or skin changes? Are you having pain, dizziness, fatigue, problems with urine or stool, or menstrual cycle changes? Have your eating habits changed? Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, distress, or sleeping problems? If so, note when the changes began, how it’s different from before, and any other observation that you think might be helpful. Be honest with your provider. If you haven’t been taking your medication as directed, exercising as much, or anything else, say so. You may be at risk for certain diseases and conditions because of how you live, work, and play. Your provider develops a plan based partly on what you say you do. Help ensure that you get the best guidance by providing the most up-to-date and accurate information about you. Be sure to write down questions beforehand. Once you’re in the office or exam room, it can be hard to remember everything you want to know. Leave room between questions to write down your provider/s answers. Consider your future. Are there specific health issues that need addressing concerning your future? Are you thinking about having infertility treatment, losing weight, taking a hazardous job, or quitting smoking? Discuss any issues with your provider so that you can make better decisions regarding your health and safety.
Courtesy of Heather Guthrie, RD, LDN & Drake Bellanger, MD, MBA, FACS Weight Loss Surgical Center of Louisiana
1. Drink Up: It’s so important to stay hydrated throughout the day, which is something that’s very easy to forget about. However, staying hydrated throughout the day can help keep your energy up, reduce headaches and allow you to be more in touch with your hunger (sometimes when I think I’m starving, I’m really just dehydrated). You can squeeze a little lemon into your water or add some crystal lite. 2. Plan Your Meals: Planning what you’re going to have for breakfast, lunch or dinner takes the guesswork out of an already stressful day, and can also save you from making bad diet decisions. What I try to do is take a little bit of time on Sundays to go over my schedule for the week, make a trip to the grocery store, and prep as many of my meals as possible. Also, bringing your own food to work or cooking at home can save lots of $$$, which is an added bonus. 3. The Buddy System: Having a partner in crime when it comes to health and fitness goals can be hugely helpful. Whether it’s someone at your office, or just a friend that you can chat and text with, having a friend who’s working toward the same goals as you can really help you stay on track. And, you’re much more likely to actually make it to that workout class or go on that hike if you’ve got a friend who’s doing it with you. 4. Stay Accountable: With all of the amazing technology out there these days, it’s easier than ever to stay on track and hold yourself accountable. I’ve found that spending the money on something like a Fitbit or Jawbone Up can make a huge difference. Wearable devices like those count your steps, let you know how many calories you’ve burned, and can remind you when it’s time to get up and move around a bit. 5. Work It Out: Fitting a workout into a long workday can seem nearly impossible. However, I’ve found that making the time for a 30-60 minute sweat session is critical for me. It boosts my mood, makes me more productive when I’m working, and just makes me feel happier and healthier in general. I plan my workday around my workout, instead of the other way around. If I have a late morning meeting, I’ll work out in the morning. If my day is going to start super early, I’ll make sure to leave work a bit early so that I can make that spin class or go for a hike before the sun sets. It’s not always easy to do, but when you’re able to make it a part of your everyday routine, it can make a world of difference in your mood, performance at work and overall happiness. Source: http://laurenconrad.com/blog/2014/04/fit-tips-5-things-to-keep-you-healthy-at-work/
We have extended hours.
Our experienced medical staff, great service, and trusted tradition will help you and your loved ones get better faster.
........
WHAT A RELIEF! CENTRAL LOCATION 8751 Sullivan Road • (225) 262-8377 Mon-Fri 9AM-9PM • Sat-Sun 9AM-6PM
www.LakeAfterHours.com
16 HEALTHY LIVING IN CENTRAL
Thursday, July 17, 2014 • CentralSpeaks.com Print Edition
The Importance & Health Benefits of Sleep
From the National Institute of Health
Why Is Sleep Important? Sleep plays a vital role in good health and well-being throughout your life. Getting enough quality sleep at the right times can help protect your mental health, physical health, quality of life, and safety. The way you feel while you're awake depends in part on what happens while you're sleeping. During sleep, your body is working to support healthy brain function and maintain your physical health. In children and teens, sleep also helps support growth and development. The damage from sleep deficiency can occur in an instant (such as a car crash), or it can harm you over time. For example, ongoing sleep deficiency can raise your risk for some chronic health problems. It also can affect how well you think, react, work, learn, and get along with others. Healthy Brain Function and Emotional Well-Being Sleep helps your brain work properly. While you're sleeping, your brain is preparing for the next day. It's forming new pathways to help you learn and remember information. Studies show that a good night's sleep improves learning. Whether you're learning math, how to play the piano, how to perfect your golf swing, or how to drive a car, sleep helps enhance your learning and problem-solving skills. Sleep also helps you pay attention, make decisions, and be creative. Studies also show that sleep
deficiency alters activity in some parts of the brain. If you're sleep deficient, you may have trouble making decisions, solving problems, controlling your emotions and behavior, and coping with change. Sleep deficiency also has been linked to depression, suicide, and risktaking behavior. Children and teens who are sleep deficient may have problems getting along with others. They may feel angry and impulsive, have mood swings, feel sad or depressed, or lack motivation. They also may have problems paying attention, and they may get lower grades and feel stressed. Physical Health Sleep plays an important role in your physical health. For example, sleep is involved in healing and repair of your heart and blood vessels. Ongoing sleep deficiency is linked to an increased risk of heart disease, kidney disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and stroke. Sleep deficiency also increases the risk of obesity. For example, one study of teenagers showed that with each hour of sleep lost, the odds of becoming obese went up. Sleep deficiency increases the risk of obesity in other age groups as well. Sleep helps maintain a healthy balance of the hormones that make you feel hungry (ghrelin) or full (leptin). When you don't get enough sleep, your level of ghrelin goes up and your level of leptin goes down. This makes you feel hungrier than when you're well-rested.
Sleep also affects how your body reacts to insulin, the hormone that controls your blood glucose (sugar) level. Sleep deficiency results in a higher than normal blood sugar level, which may increase your risk for diabetes. Sleep also supports healthy growth and development. Deep sleep triggers the body to release the hormone that promotes normal growth in children and teens. This hormone also boosts muscle mass and helps repair cells and tissues in children, teens, and adults. Sleep also plays a role in puberty and fertility. Your immune system relies on sleep to stay healthy. This system defends your body against foreign or harmful substances. Ongoing sleep deficiency can change the way in which your immune system responds. For example, if you're sleep deficient, you may have trouble fighting common infections. Daytime Performance and Safety Getting enough quality sleep at the right times helps you function well throughout the day. People who are sleep deficient are less productive at work and school. They take longer to finish tasks, have a slower reaction time, and make more mistakes. After several nights of losing sleep—even a loss of just 1–2 hours per night—your ability to function suffers as if you haven't slept at all for a day or two. Lack of sleep also may lead to microsleep. Microsleep refers to brief moments of sleep that occur when you're normally awake. You can't control microsleep,
and you might not be aware of it. For example, have you ever driven somewhere and then not remembered part of the trip? If so, you may have experienced microsleep. Even if you're not driving, microsleep can affect how you function. If you're listening to a lecture, for example, you might miss some of the information or feel like you don't understand the point. In reality, though, you may have slept through part of the lecture and not been aware of it. Some people aren't aware of the risks of sleep deficiency. In fact, they may not even realize that they're sleep deficient. Even with limited or poor-quality sleep, they may still think that they can function well. For example, drowsy drivers may feel capable of driving. Yet, studies show that sleep deficiency harms your driving ability as much as, or more than, being drunk. It's estimated that driver sleepiness is a factor in about 100,000 car accidents each year, resulting in about 1,500 deaths. For tips to help you get more sleep, visit www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/ topics/sdd/howmuch.html
Recommended Amount of Sleep: Newborns: 16–18 hours a day Preschool-aged children: 11–12 hours a day School-aged children: At least 10 hours a day Teens: 9–10 hours a day Adults (including the elderly): 7–8 hours a day
CentralSpeaks.com Print Edition • Thursday, July 17, 2014 CARPET/TILE CLEANING
Shop Central First $75/mo. Email Ads@CentralSpeaks.com
Bayou Steam Carpet, Upholstery, Tile & Grout Cleaning Locally Owned and Operated 225-955-6955
A/C & HEATING
DIRT WORK
American A/C & Heating Residential & Commercial Free Estimates Central Owned 225-588-7707
General Sand & Gravel Limestone, Gravel, Mason & Fill Sand, Riversilt, Crushed Concrete, Clay, T/S - Tractor Work VISA 261-3953 M/C
AIR CONDITIONING
DRAPERY/UPHOLSTERY
Confederate Heating & Air 261-5000 $30 off Spring Maintenance Service all makes & models Residential & Commercial Licensed Bonded & Insured
Mill direct fabrics, Shades, Custom drapery, Slipcovers,woven wood Romans, interior shutters. 22 years experience. Call Charlotte Harris 225-936-8649
AIR CONDITIONING Fontana Air, LLC We Cater to Your Comfort Not a Bait and Switch Contractor Guaranteed Quality at the Best Price Jon Fontana - 938-7448
AIR CONDITIONING
ELECTRIC Simple Electric Licensed, Insured & Bonded Any Size Job - 30 Yrs Experience Central Owned Business 921-2633
EQUIPMENT WORK
SHOP CENTRAL FIRST 17
HOUSE CLEANING D & D Cleaning Need Your House Or Business Cleaned? Call Us Today at 262-5157 or 573-0143 HOUSE WASHING
LAWN MOWER REPAIR
ALL PURPOSE EXTERIOR CLEANING Quality work at a fair price House & concrete cleaning Affordable House Washing Since 1994 225-273-1473
PRICECO SUPPLY Lawnmower Repair, Replacement Blades, Safety Glasses and Gloves 15151 Greenwell Springs Road 225-262-6245
LANDSCAPE/LAWN CARE
PAINTING
GROUNDS PRO Lawn - Landscape - Bush Hog Commercial & Residential (225) 281-9296
Central Painting and Drywall Interior & Exterior - Central Owned Popcorn Ceiling Removal 35 Years Experience - Dependable Service 225-936-7191
LAWN CARE
PLUMBING
Causey’s Lawn Service Free Estimates CHS Grad & College Student Wyatt Causey 225-937-1219
DAVE-CO PLUMBING New Construction, Remodels, Repairs Natural Gas Generator Hook-Up Best Prices and Top Quality Job 13366 Hooper Rd 262-1234
LAWN CARE
TREE REMOVAL
LAWN CARE
Watts Lawn Services, LLC. Firefighter owned & operated. Professional lawn care. Licensed and Insured. 225-235-5827
Rebel Heating & Air Service-Repair-Replace-Installation Free Estimates on Change Outs www.rebelheatingandair.com 225-929-8944
Weeks Construction Specialties, LLC Dozer, Trackhoe, Tractor Work Ponds, House Pads, Driveways, Light Clearing, Etc. 603-5488 or 261-8976
Central Lawn Pro, LLC Lawn Maintenance, New installation or renovation, Landscape, Hardscape Licensed and Insured 413-5028
Audubon Tree Service LLC Licensed & Insured Trimming & Removal Free Estimates 225-270-7250
AUTOMOTIVE
FURNITURE
LAWN CARE
TREE REMOVAL
Junior’s Furniture Service, LLC Upholstery, Custom Built Ottomans, Headboards, Church Pews, Salon Chairs, Antique Restoration. Zachary, LA 654-3949 www.jfupholstery.com
Gator Cuts Lawn Maintenance Mowing, Edging, Weed Eating Bed Cleanup & Maintenance Free Estimates. Licensed and Insured. 225-588-9185
BRICK WORK
HOME IMPROVEMENT
LAWN CARE
Construction Plus of Baton Rouge Fireplaces, Mailboxes, Floors, Driveway Apron, Outside Kitchens, Patio, etc. Free Estimate. Call Jerome Dugas 225-261-1063
Chiasson Co., LLC. Remodeling, additions, home repairs, Outdoor kitchens, window & door install Free Est. Call Matt 225.806.9127 www.chiassonconstruction.com
Tree of Life Lawn & Landscaping Professional Lawn Care Landscape Renewal & Maintenance, New Construction Licensed, Free Consultations Call James Coates: 225-301-4971
$200-$300 For Wrecked or Junk Cars More for New or Running Cars LA CASH 4 YOUR WRECKED CARS 225-715-4852
TREE MEN, LLC Tree service & stump grinding Fully Licensed and insured Free Estimates 262-6092 or 791-3981
WELLNESS Nourishing Practices Massage Therapy Yoga Classes Digestive Wellness www.massageandyogaincentral.com
18 COMMUNITY
Thursday, July 17, 2014 • CentralSpeaks.com Print Edition
Saturday, July 19, from 9 a.m. to noon FREE Car Wash in church parking lot at First Baptist Church Central, 9676 Sullivan Road. Bring your dirty car and spend a few minutes with us while we get it cleaned up for you.
CAPA Corner
Recently we celebrated Independence Day. One of my favorite things about the 4th is popping fireworks. It is beautiful to see the explosion of colors and shapes in the sky. There is something a bit magical about it. But, if there is one thing that can put a damper on the fun it is a weak fireworks display. For example, if you show up ready to see ten minutes of exciting fireworks, and all you get is a dozen bottle rockets, it makes the whole thing a pretty big let down. What you want is something spectacular, something exciting, and something powerful. In Romans 1:16 Paul says, “I am not ashamed of the gospel for it is the power of God unto salvation.” Paul had this crazy notion that when Jesus came into your life, it should be an explosion! It should be powerful! Why? Well, an eternal, all-powerful, allknowing God is the one doing the work; and he isn’t weak. In Paul’s letter to the church in Thessalonica, Paul says that he
knows God has chosen this group of people for salvation because he says, “Our gospel came to you not simply with words, but also with power, with the Holy Spirit, and with deep conviction.” (1 Thess. 1:4-5) Many of us in Central claim Jesus as savior and Lord of our lives, but I would like to lovingly challenge you today with a question: Has your life been changed by your experience with Jesus? Is there a powerful display in your life of the glory of God? If the God we claim to serve is all-powerful, and he is the one making changes in your life, is there proof of that? Can the world see it? Does God see it? Jesus Christ came to earth, lived among us, and shed his blood to bring a powerful salvation into our lives. He desires more than just a few cheap bottle rockets. He wants our lives to light up the darkness through the power of his love in us. Jason Allen First Baptist Central
CentralSpeaks.com Print Edition • Thursday, July 17, 2014
Central Alumni Baseball Game
On Saturday, July 26th, Central Baseball will hold it's 1st annual Alumni Game to celebrate the addition of lights added to our facilities. We would like to invite all former baseball players of Central to participate and have a chance to play under the lights. If interested, please visit our website at www.leaguelineup.com/centralhsbaseball and fill out the Alumni game form on the start page to register to play in the game. Also, we would like to invite all of Central to come out and enjoy the past, present, and future of Central Baseball. There will be plenty fun and festive activities for the kids to enjoy along with food for everyone. Price of admission is free so feel free to bring the entire family. Home Run Derby starts at 5:00pm and the 1st annual alumni baseball game begins at 7:00pm.
Knight of the Year and Family of the Year Awards
John & Barbara Culmone (above, left) were awarded the Family of the year Award by the St. Alphonsus Knights of Columbus. Richard and Lenore Watson (right) were honored by St. Alphonsus Council 2807 as being Knight of the Year.
COMMUNITY 19
There will be live music with The Wood Creek Boys: Duane Gafford, Mitchell Bailey, and Bruce Prestridge Sunday evening at Caliente Mexican Craving from 6-8 PM
Sarah Cross to Marry Jon Garcia on August 23
Sarah Elizabeth Cross of Greenwell Springs, and Jon Taylor Garcia of Denham Springs, will marry in a 6:00 p.m. ceremony on August 23, 2014 at Zoar Baptist Church. The bride-elect is the daughter of Britton and Monique Cross of Greenwell Springs. She is the granddaughter of Faye Cross and the late James Cross of Baker, and the late Calvino and Yvonne Robin of Opelousas. The bride-elect is a graduate of Central Private School and Baton Rouge Community
College. She is employed as a Paralegal at Taylor, Porter, Brooks, and Phillips. Her fiancé is the son of Dennis and Machelle Garcia of Denham Springs. He is the grandson of Berthaline and the late Dennis Garcia, Sr. of Baton Rouge and Peggy Poche and the late John Poche of Denham Springs. He is a graduate of Denham Springs High School and Louisiana State University. He is employed as a Engineer with Weatherford International.
Thursday, July 17, 2014 • CentralSpeaks.com ANNOUNCEMENTS Print Edition11
In Memoriam: Susan Jacobs
Susan Jacobs died Wednesday, June 25, 2014, after a courageous battle with ALS. Susan remained a deeply spiritual woman throughout this journey and her faith served her well. Her testimony was also a Christian witness to everyone around her. Susan was an Earthly picture of the woman described in I Peter 3:4- "a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God." Susan was born August 17, 1950, in Baton Rouge, LA. She is survived by her husband of 45 years, Rusty Jacobs, her three sons and their families; Wes and Carlie Jacobs and their children Reagen, Sydney, and Wes Jr.; Jason and Amy Jacobs and their children Levi, Aubin Rose, and Josiah; and Gabe and Kristen Jacobs and their son, Samuel and her mother, Maisie Raymond. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Amy Lynn Jacobs and her father, Leonard Soileau. Visitation was held at Comite Baptist Church on Thursday, June 26, 2014, from 5 pm to 8 pm and continued on Friday, June 27, 2014, at Comite Baptist Church from 10 am until service time at 11 am conducted by Rev. John Green and Rev. Bill Parsons. Susan's nephews, Todd, Kevin, and Darren Browning; Chuck, Craig, and Chris Pourciau served as her pallbearers. The family is grateful for the support and services of St. Joseph Hospice and the Louisiana/ Mississippi Chapter of the ALS Association.
St. Alphonsus PrimeTimers Hosting Dinner & Comedy Show
The PrimeTimers at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church are sponsoring a Dinner and Comedy show. The show will feature “The Ragin’ Cajun’’ John Paul Morgan. It will be held Saturday, August 2nd at Kristenwood Reception Hall on 10425 Greenwell Springs Road. Doors open at 5:00 PM with dinner at 5:30 PM and the comedy show at 6:30 PM. Tickets are $20 per person and can be purchased at St. Alphonsus Church Parish Office in Greenwell Springs. Tickets will be available at the door for $25.00. Everyone 21 and over is invited to attend.
You could win!
T
V
GIVE
A W
A
20CentralSpeaks.com ANNOUNCEMENTS Print Edition • Thursday, March 8, 2012
AY
Any new DLFCU membership or loan application enters you into our ATV Giveaway! DLFCU Memberships offer:
DLFCU offers numerous loans::
Exceptional Service
New and Used Auto Loans
Online Banking
Personal Loans
Shared Branching
Home Mortgages
Extended Hours
VISA Credit Card
and much more!
dlfcu.com
For more information or to apply, visit any of our convenient locations, call 888.369.2207 or visit dlfcu.com