Health & FITNESS
JUNE 2016
FEATURE:
Healthy Summer 4 travel tips for older adults with medical conditions 5 cover feature Safeguard yourself from summertime ailments and accidents 6 always practice summer sun safety
Wellness
NUTRITION 14 TIPS FOR PERFECTLY GRILLED VEGETABLES 15 find healthy foods while on the go 16 h ow to prepare the grill for the season
Medicine
7 how to protect your pets from extreme heat 8 protect and enjoy public parks
17 medication safety tips for children and adults 18 E xercise caution with herbal products
Fitness
Loc ation finder
9 how families can get up and go 10 Swimming: more than just a recreational activity 11 the basics of boosting metabolism
12 Health & Fitness Directory
Commu n i t y c a l e n dar
20 DIRECTORY OF EVENTS
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JUNE 2016
JUNE 2016
Health & Fitness |
F E A T U R E Healthy Summer
Travel tips
for older adults with
medical conditions The opportunity to travel is one of the best perks of retirement. Even men and women who are only semiretired have more freedom to travel than those who are still working full-time. But while men and women over 50 may have more time to travel, they also must take more precautions when traveling, thanks in large part to medical conditions. Many men and women over 50 have medical conditions that may require they take medication and/or visit their physicians somewhat regularly. But those who want to travel need not let their health prevent them from seeing the world. The following are a few travel tips for men and women with medical conditions. • Speak with your healthcare provider before any trips. Whether you are about to embark on an overseas adventure or just spend a couple of weeks visiting your grandchildren, speak to your healthcare provider in advance of your trip. Healthcare providers may recommend certain vaccinations to men and women traveling abroad, and providers also can explain coverage and what to do in case of a medical emergency while away from home. • Refill your prescriptions. Men and women who must take medication should refill their prescriptions before traveling
away from home. Doing so ensures you will have enough medication to last your trip. When filling a prescription, explain to your pharmacist and/or physician that you are about to travel and tell them where you will be going. They may recommend you avoid certain foods native to your destination, or they may give you the greenlight to indulge in the local cuisine. • Carry a list of your medications and medical conditions with you when traveling. Before traveling, make a detailed list of the medications you
• Keep medications in their original containers. Some men and women find it easier to remember to take their medications if they transfer pills from their original containers into pill organizers. Such devices can be very convenient at home, but they make create problems when traveling through customs or even on domestic flights. Pills can always be transferred to organizers upon your arrival at your destination; just make sure they are placed back into their original containers before you return home. • Drink plenty of water on flights. Airplane cabins can be very dry, which can exacerbate dry mouth that results from taking medication. When boarding a flight, speak to the flight attendant and explain that you need some extra water so you can stay hydrated and avoid irritating dry mouth that may result from your medication. If you must take medication while on your flight, don’t be afraid to ask the flight attendant for a fresh glass of water and even a light snack if you need to eat something with your medicine. Men and women over 50 have more freedom to travel than many of their adult counterparts. But such travelers must exercise extra caution if they have medical conditions.
Men and women over 50 have more freedom to travel than many of their adult counterparts.
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take and why you take them. The list should include dosage and the names, both generic and brand name, of the medications you take. Include any past medical conditions, such as a heart attack, you have had as well. Carry this list with you when traveling. In case of emergency, the list will alert responding medical professionals to any current or past medical conditions you have so they can better treat you.
JUNE 2016
cover feature
Safeguard Yourself from
ailments and accidents Summer is often marked by vacations, recreational events and relaxing moments spent by the pool or on the beach. But when the weather heats up, so can potential health hazards that can ruin all of the fun. The following are some of the more common summertime ailments and how to avoid them. • Lawn and garden injuries: Lawn and garden injuries may not be common, but men, women and children should exercise caution when using lawn and garden equipment. Wear protective shoes and gloves and safety goggles. Remember to turn off any motorized tools before attempting to repair or unclog the blades.
away. Wear long pants and check for ticks after hiking. • Boating accidents: Many boating accidents can be attributed to inexperience with the vessel and failure to take proper safety precautions on the water. Make sure everyone on the boat wears a life jacket, and follow proper boating protocol throughout your trip.
dizziness and dry mouth and may make you feel faint. Always drink plenty of water and avoid alcoholic beverages and soft drinks, which can contribute to dehydration when consumed in excess.
“...When the weather heats up, so can potential health hazards that can ruin all of the fun.
• Dehydration: The body needs extra water on hot days, especially when spending ample time outdoors. Dehydration can cause
• Swimmer’s ear: Water that remains in the ear canal after swimming can make the ear a breeding ground for swimmer’s ear, which is a bacterial infection. If water remains in your ear for more than one night, visit an ear, nose and throat specialist. • Insect bites and stings: Insects return when temperatures rise. Mosquitoes may be the biggest nuisance, but biting flies and wasps also make formidable foes. Use insect repellent to keep the bugs
JUNE 2016
Health & Fitness |
Always practice summer sun safety When the weather is warm, many people take time to relax at the beach or poolside. While such relaxation can provide a welcome break from busy schedules, it’s important that men, women and children prioritize protecting their skin when spending time in the sun. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, basal cell carcinoma, or BCC, is the most common form of skin cancer. The American Cancer Society notes that each year there are more new cases of skin cancer in the United States than the combined incidences of cancers of the breast, prostate, lung and colon. Despite that prevalence, many people still engage in risky behaviors in the name of outdoor enjoyment. Being safe in the sun won’t take anything away from enjoyable outdoor activities, but exercising such caution will help summer revelers reduce their risk for skin cancer and other conditions. • Know the risks of UV exposure. Sunlight is needed to engage vitamin D production in the body, but too much sun exposure can do more harm than good. Ultraviolet, or UV, rays from the sun and other sources,
Being safe in the sun won’t take anything away from enjoyable outdoor activities, but exercising such caution will help summer revelers reduce their risk for skin cancer and other conditions. such as tanning beds, are the primary cause of skin cancer. Exposure also can lead to sunburns, premature aging/wrinkling and eye damage. • Use only broad-spectrum SPF sunscreen. Look for a sunblock product that boasts an SPF of at least 30. The FDA requires any sunscreen with an SPF below 15 to carry a warning that it only protects against sunburn, not skin cancer or skin aging. Find a sunscreen that works against UVA and UVB rays as well. UVA rays are mostly responsible for contributing to skin cancer and premature aging. Reapply frequently, especially when swimming or engaging in activities that cause sweating. • Know the difference between water-resistant and waterproof sunscreens. Manufacturers are no longer
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allowed to claim that their sunscreens are waterproof or sweatproof. A sunscreen may be able to repel water for a short time, but it should be reapplied when leaving the water or when spending long stretches in the water. • Cover up whenever possible. It may seem counterintuitive in hot weather, but covering up can be beneficial to the skin and actually keep a person cooler. Wear widebrimmed hats, long-sleeve tops and light-colored pants. Some materials are made with reflective properties, while others actually boast their own SPF. Summer fun does not need to be threatened by overexposure to the sun. By exercising caution, everyone can spend quality time in the great outdoors all summer long.
JUNE 2016
How to protect your pets from extreme heat
wellness
because their shorter airways don’t allow as much time for the air they breathe in to cool as dogs with longer noses. In addition, the HSUS points out that dogs with whitecolored ears are more susceptible to skin cancer than other dogs, making it imperative that owners of such dogs reduce their exposure to the sun on hot days when the UV index is especially dangerous.
Pets should be allowed to relax indoors on hot days, which can be especially dangerous to animals. Extreme heat can be unpleasant for anyone, and pets are no exception. While it’s easy for men and women to detect if their bodies are responding negatively to heat, those warning signs may not be so prevalent in pets, who may suffer in silence as the mercury continues to rise. Pet owners must pay special attention to their pets on hot days, which the Humane Society of the United States notes can be both uncomfortable and dangerous for pets. In an effort to help pet owners protect their pets from the summer heat, the HSUS offers the following tips to pet owners who want to keep their pets cool and safe this summer.
• Change pet’s exercise regimen. Pet owners who make sure their pets get daily exercise should change such routines when temperatures are on the rise. Midday walks or jogs should be switched to evenings or early mornings, when temperatures tend to be at their most moderate. In addition, cut back on the time spent exercising, as pets may have trouble breathing on hot days. When taking your dog for a jog or a run in the summertime, do so on the grass, avoiding asphalt, as hot asphalt can do significant damage to your pet’s paws. • Be mindful of your breed. Dog owners should recognize that certain dogs can handle the heat better than others. Short-nosed breeds have a harder time in extreme heat
• Let dogs inside. Doghouses might not be as prevalent as they once were, but many owners still keep doghouses in their backyards so their four-legged friends have a place to relax outdoors on lazy afternoons. But doghouses can be similar to parked cars on especially hot days, making rising temperatures feel even hotter. Let dogs hang out inside in an air conditioned room on hot days to reduce their risk of heatstroke. • Learn to recognize the signs of heatstroke. Pets suffering from heatstroke will exhibit certain symptoms, and pet owners who learn to recognize those symptoms can do something about them before it’s too late. Heavy panting, glazed eyes, rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing, excessive thirst, and lack of coordination are just a few potential indicators that a pet is suffering from heatstroke. Animals that are very old, very young, overweight, and unaccustomed to prolonged exercise, as well as those who have heart or respiratory conditions, are especially susceptible to heatstroke. Learn more about pets and heatstroke at www. humanesociety.org.
• Don’t leave pets in a parked car. The temperature inside a vehicle can quickly approach dangerous levels on hot days, so pet owners should never leave their pets in parked cars, even if they leave the air conditioning on and the engine running. The HSUS notes that on an 85-degree day, temperatures inside cars with slightly cracked windows can reach 102 degrees in as little as 10 minutes. Rather than taking pets with you on car trips, leave them at home inside a comfortably air conditioned room where they won’t be vulnerable to rising temperatures.
JUNE 2016
Health & Fitness |
Protect and enjoy
public parks Millions of people visit public parks across North America every year. Nature preserves and natural parks are home to picturesque landscapes, monuments, natural wonders, and abundant wildlife. Visiting parks is a great way to enjoy the beauty of nature and learn something along the way, but such visits also come with a great degree of responsibility. The National Parks Service and The British Columbia Ministry of Environment provide these guidelines to remain good environmental stewards when visiting popular parks and preserves.
Know the laws
National parks may be protected by federal law that may prohibit or restrict hunting and trapping animals to specific times of year. Wildlife living in parks may become less fearsome of people over time, especially when they grow accustomed to being fed or handled. Many parks prohibit feeding and close interacting with wildlife. Otherwise the animals may lose their hunting or
foraging ability, or pose threats to people when the animals rapidly approach for an easy handout. Learn park rules so you’ll know what is acceptable behavior within its borders.
Keep wild animals wild
Feeding animals is perhaps one of the more dangerous things park visitors can do. In recent years, the National Park Service has had to euthanize deer, coyotes, rock squirrels, and other animals that have become too aggressive toward humans because they grew accustomed to receiving food from people. Keep your distance from wildlife. Use proper equipment to view or photograph animals from several feet away. Stay even further away from animals that are breeding, nesting or raising young, as parents can become particularly protective of their children and turn aggressive.
Visiting parks is a great way to enjoy the beauty of nature and learn something along the way, but such visits also come with a great degree of responsibility. |Health & Fitness
Keep a clean camp
Camping and parks often go handin-hand. Keep a clean camp so you are not attracting bears and other food scavengers. Use trash receptacles and store garbage and food out of reach. Cook and clean away from your tent and immediately clean any cooking supplies after you have finished your meal. Only wood and paper should be burned, and try not to prepare food or fishing bait in close proximity to your campsite.
Prepare for weather
Weather can change on a dime when you’re in the wilderness. Pack accordingly, dressing in layers so you can change clothes as the weather demands. Have a flashlight and other emergency supplies available in case you get stuck in a storm. Higher elevations and exposure to the sunlight can cause severe sunburn. Always apply and reapply sunscreen. High elevations also can increase the chance of dehydration, mountain sickness (headaches, nausea and dizziness) and the aggravation of preexisting medical conditions.
Avoid damaging vegetation
Animals are not the only natural wonders to protect. Use caution when hiking so you do not trample vegetation. Keep pets on leashes so they do not disturb sensitive habitats. Do not pick flowers or berries and take them away from the park. Respecting local wildlife and taking steps to keep parks clean can make your hiking and camping experiences that much more enjoyable.
JUNE 2016
How families can get up and gooo Families often look for fun things to do together, and few things are more fun than physical activity. Choosing activities that combine fun with physical activity is a great way to bond as a family and get healthy at the same time.
According to Let’s Move!, an initiative launched by First Lady Michelle Obama to fight the problem of childhood obesity, children need 60 minutes of play with moderate to vigorous physical activity every day. Families looking to get fit and grow closer can consider the following approaches to live healthier, more active lifestyles. • Give gifts that encourage activity. In lieu of toys that promote sedentary lifestyles, give kids toys that encourage physical activity. Erect a basketball hoop in the driveway or go buy new bicycles for the whole family, resolving to go for a nightly ride together.
JUNE 2016
• Restrict TV time. Establish house rules regarding how many hours of television kids and adults can watch each day. Kids will follow their parents’ lead with regard to how much television they watch, so parents should be mindful of their own viewing habits, resisting the temptation to plop down on the couch for several hours each night. • Walk or ride bikes to run errands. When running errands in town, take the kids along and walks or ride bicycles rather than drive. This is a great time for families to catch up, and walking or riding a bicycle is great exercise for adults and kids alike. • Schedule physical activities for the weekends. When planning weekends, parents can schedule a physical activity for the whole family. Make time to go hiking at a nearby park or schedule a family basketball game in the driveway.
f i tne s s
• Volunteer as a family. Another way to get up and go as a family is to work with a local nonprofit or charitable organization. Sign the family up for monthly park or beach cleanup projects that get the family out of the house and moving. Or sign the family up to work at a local soup kitchen where kids can learn the value of helping others while staying on their feet. • Let kids plan activities. One great way to get kids excited about an active lifestyle is to let them plan family activities. Kids who are encouraged to come up with activities, whether it’s visiting the zoo or going kayaking as a family, are more likely to embrace those activities.
Health & Fitness |
Swimming: more than
just a
recreational activity Many people view swimming as a purely recreational activity, but the health benefits of swimming should not be overlooked. Swimming is a great way to get fit, providing great cardiovascular exercise that’s easy on the joints. Swimming engages a variety of muscle groups, making it a great way to get a complete workout. The following are some additional benefits of including swimming as part of your exercise regimen. • When swimming, muscles are worked hard, which can help build strength. Much of that work can be traced to the fact that water is far more resistant than air, forcing a body in water to work harder to move than it would if it were walking on solid ground. • Water buoyancy can enable people to do exercises that would be jarring on land. In water, roughly 90 percent of the body is buoyant. That means working out in the water will put less strain on the knees and hips when it comes to performing high-impact jumping exercises.
and harder can help to burn calories and lead to weight loss. • Just about every muscle is used when a body is swimming. Swimming targets the shoulders, back, arms, legs, hips, and gluteals without requiring complicated workout equipment. • Swimming may help improve coordination, balance and posture.
Swimming also may promote greater flexibility by stretching the body through fluid movements. While swimming is often considered a relaxing activity tailor-made for warm summer days, it also provides a complete and demanding workout that can benefit the body in a variety of ways.
Swimming is a great way
to get fit
• Swimming is a great cardiovascular workout. Swimming can elevate the heart rate to an optimal level and work the lungs, too. Pushing oneself harder
10|Health & Fitness
JUNE 2016
The basics of
boosting metabolism Though metabolism is a collection of complicated processes, boosting metabolism can be rather easy. The following are a handful of ways to do so, which can help men and women reach their fitness goals.
in chili peppers that some feel boosts metabolism enough to promote weight loss. Though capsaicin can boost metabolism slightly, studies have shown that influence is not significant enough to affect a person’s weight.
• Eat the right foods and eat more often. Many adults have been turned on to the concept of grazing, an approach to diet wherein adherents eat small portions of food every two to three hours instead of the more traditional three square meals per day. But grazing is only effective when men and women eat the right foods. Each small meal should still have nutritional value just as if it were a large meal. When eating smaller meals, include healthy sources of protein and fiber. Vegetables tend to be especially beneficial because they are high in fiber, a nondigestible carbohydrate that is hard for the body to break down. As the body works hard to break down fiber, it’s burning energy and boosting its metabolism along the way. Fish is another potentially beneficial food for those looking to boost their metabolisms, as studies have shown that the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oils increase the levels of fat-burning enzymes in the body while decreasing the body’s level of fatstorage enzymes.
• Don’t get too comfortable. Modern technology may be a reason why waist sizes are getting bigger. Heating and cooling systems may be must-have items, but when the body is too comfortable, it burns less energy to stay warm in the winter or comfortably cool in the summer. A study from the National Institute of Health Clinical Center found that people who slept in a room kept at 66 F burned 7 percent more calories than those who slept in a room at 75 F. Sleeping in a cooler room may just be the easiest way for men and women to boost their metabolisms. Boosting metabolism and shedding extra pounds is a goal for many men and women. But while metabolism is a complex set of processes, the various ways to effectively boost that metabolism can be quite simple.
Eating more often benefits the body because doing so stimulates metabolism
Eating more often benefits the body because doing so stimulates metabolism, reassuring the body that food will be coming on a regular basis. When meals are skipped or there are long intervals between meals, the body reacts as if it might run out of food and begins to store fat. • Add some lean muscle. Lean muscle can boost metabolism, so a workout dominated by cardiovascular exercise won’t have as positive an impact on metabolism as one that includes a combination of weight training and aerobic exercise. When muscles are worked hard, the body needs to work hard to recover and rebuild those muscles, burning more calories and boosting metabolism as a result. • Don’t believe everything you read or hear. Suggestions abound as to ways to significantly improve metabolism. Unfortunately, many of these suggestions boost metabolism but not enough to help people lose weight, which is the ultimate goal of many people looking to boost their metabolisms. For example, green tea has its proponents who feel it can have a significant impact on metabolism thanks to EGCG, a compound found in the tea that has been proven to elevate metabolism. However, the impact of EGCG on boosting metabolism is negligible, and therefore won’t make much of an impact on a person’s weight. The same can be said about capsaicin, an active component found
JUNE 2016
Health & Fitness |11
Health & FITNESS Directory exercise/fitness Dr. Webster
5610 E. Centex Expressway Ste. 1 Rosewood Plaza Killeen, TX 76543 (254) 690-8887 www.websterfamilypractice.com
Eye Care Killeen Vision Source
416 North Gray Street Killeen, Texas 76541 (254) 634-7805 www.killeenvisionsource.com
Eye Clinic of Killeen
2301 S. Clear Creek Rd. Ste. 116 Killeen, Texas 76549 (254) 526-5505
hospital/emergency Metroplex Adventist Hospital
2201 S. Clear Creek Rd. Killeen, Texas 76549 (254) 526-7523 www.mplex.org
12|Health & Fitness
Seton Medical Center Harker Heights
850 W. Central Texas Expwy. Harker Heights, Texas 76548 (254) 690-0900 www.setonharkerheights.net
Miscellaneous
physicians American Hearing
• 2806 S w S Young Dr., Ste. C Killeen, Texas (254) 680-3444 www.americanhearing.info
Integrated Pain Associates
• 1809 S W HK Dodgen Loop, Ste. 200 Temple, Texas 76502 (254) 774-7727 www.americanhearing.info
Medical Aesthetics FACE
Choosing the right doctor is
3800 S. W.S. Young Drive, Ste. 201 Killeen, Texas 76542 (254) 245-9175 Anna D. Rinehart, CIDESCO 800 W. CenTex Expwy Suite 200 Harker Heights, Texas 1-888-769-3223 www.medicalaesthetics.com
Pain Specialists of Austin
• 3816 S. Clear Creek Rd., Ste. B Killeen, Texas 76549 855-876-PAIN (7246) • 2401 Walker Place Blvd., Ste. 100 Copperas Cove, TX • 800 W. Central Texas Expwy, Ste. 250 - Seton Medical Center Harker Heights, TX 76548
Pharmacy Medical Arts Pharmacy
806 East Avenue D, Ste A Copperas Cove, Texas 76522-2231 (254) 547-4146 www.medicalartscc.com
a critical decision that requires some indepth research. Very often individuals make this decision purely by which names turn up on a health insurance plan, while others choose the doctor who is closest to their homes. Although managed care has changed the way many look for and use doctors, this doesn’t mean a person should remain hands-off in the selection process. Narrow down potential doctors by their specialty, academic history, proximity to home, and whether the doctor is board-certified. A doctor who is board-certified has taken several extra years of training and passed a difficult board examination. To remain board-certified, he or she sometimes must complete continuing education and periodic recertification. After the list is made, you can select two or three eligible doctors and make appointments for non-carerelated interviews. The doctor who best meets this criteria is likely going to make the best fit.
JUNE 2016
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Health & Fitness |13
Tips for perfectly
nutr i t i o n
Grilled Vegetables When grilling vegetables, consider this popular recipe.
(MS) -- One of the highlights of the summer season is the incredible bounty of fresh produce, and grilling these vegetables gives them a smoky, delicious dimension. Chef BBQ Naz, a grilling expert from Broil King, shares some simple tips for flavor perfection. When preparing vegetables, slice them to expose as much of the vegetable to the grill surface as you can. Coat vegetables with olive oil before placing them on the grill. This will help prevent them from sticking to the grill. se the right tool for the job. U Accessories like grill toppers and skewers are perfect for keeping smaller foods like cherry tomatoes and onions from rolling around or falling through the grate. on’t leave vegetables D unattended. Vegetables are delicate and can easily overcook if not monitored. Grill extras. Leftover grilled vegetables are great in soups, salads, sandwiches and on pizzas and pasta.
Grilled Zucchini Rolls Ingredients
3 medium zucchinis, sliced 1/4-inch thic k, lengthwise 1 tablespoon olive oil 4 ounces chevre (soft goat cheese), at room temperature Pinch of freshly ground black pepper Pinch of kosher salt 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes, oil-p acked and minced 1 teaspoon oil from the sun-dried tom atoes 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, minced 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, fres hly grated
Directions Preheat the grill on medium. Brush both sides of sliced zucchini with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Place on the grill and cook for 4 min utes per side. When cooked, set on a wire rack to cool . In a small bowl, combine the chevre, salt, pepper, sun-dried tomatoes, oil and thyme. Using a small spatula, spread the chee se mixture thinly over one side of the zucchini. Lightly roll the zucchini, and place seam side down on a small, parchment-lined baking shee t. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Place baking sheet on top rack of the grill for 15 minutes. Remove to a platter and serve. Additional recipes and a complete vege table grilling guide can be found at www.broilkingbbq.com
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JUNE 2016
It’s possible for travelers to find healthy fare no matter where they end up eating their meals. Nice weather often equates to an uptick in road trips. During such trips, motorists and their passengers will need to take breaks to refuel both their vehicles and their bodies. Rest stop and convenience store snack options are often unhealthy, and it can be difficult for nutrition-minded travelers to find acceptable fare. But a little creativity coupled with some smarter choices can ensure road trips don’t derail healthy diets.
• Bring food along. One of the
easiest ways to eat healthy while traveling is to bring meals and snacks with you. Look for portable foods that may not require much refrigeration, such as fruit bars or trail mix. If you have room in the car for a small cooler or insulated lunch packs, fill them with fresh fruits and sandwiches. Opt for lean lunch meats like chicken and turkey. Avoid using cheese or dressings like mayonnaise that can quickly spoil. Some other easily portable foods include applesauce cups, oatmeal packets (all you need is hot water from a rest stop) and low-sodium, low-fat jerky.
Pack plenty of water, a healthier choice than soft drinks that will also keep you hydrated when sitting in the car for extended periods of time.
that only increase those already considerable sodium levels. If you must opt for fast food, do not order sides of fries or chips, which will only make meals less healthy. Also, avoid sugary sodas. Many fast food restaurants offer some healthy fare, such as grilled chicken sandwiches. Order such sandwiches plain or with extra lettuce and tomato for a healthy crunch. Order sandwiches on wholewheat buns when possible. Kids’ meals tend to have healthy portion sizes. If possible, purchase a kid’s meal and opt for a side of sliced apples or another healthy alternative.
• Make smart choices at sitdown restaurants, too. It’s
important to stay focused on healthy fare even when you pull off the highway and patronize more traditional sit-down restaurants. Again, think smaller portions. Consider splitting an entre^ae with another person in your traveling party. Some chains will offer the nutritional information right on the menu, or put a special symbol next
It’s possible for travelers to find healthy fare no matter where they end up eating their meals. to their healthiest offerings. Substitute steamed vegetables for starchy or fattening side dishes and always ask for sauces to be served on the side. It’s not always easy to eat healthy when traveling. But travelers can often find healthy fare, even if they need to bring it along themselves.
• Find healthy fast food. If
packing food is not an option or if you just prefer the convenience of getting something along the way, you can still make informed choices. Opt for foods that are roughly 500 calories or less and boast plenty of protein and whole grains to help you feel full longer. You may not be able to enjoy low-sodium foods, as many fast food options go heavy on the salt. Just steer clear of extra condiments
JUNE 2016
Health & Fitness |15
How to prepare
the grill for the season
When it’s time to dust off the grill for the season, grillmasters may think all that’s necessary is to pull off the cover, reconnect the gas and start cooking. But it’s best to give grills, new and old, a thorough cleaning and seasoning to prepare them for several months of use. Begin by looking inside of the grill and under the cover and grates to see if any insects or animals have taken up residence. Rodents, birds and bugs sometimes ride out winter weather in unused grills. If you light the grill before checking for uninvited guests, you may end up cooking more than you expected. Inspect for any debris, such as leaves and twigs, as well. Even if animals are no longer in the grill, remnants of their nests may be. Spiderwebs can ignite quickly and prove to be a hazard, so clean off any webs inside and on the exterior of the grill. Check the hose that connects to the portable gas tank or the natural gas line to the house to see if it’s intact and clean. Clean off the hose if it has any buildup and make sure there are no holes or cracks. You do not want to risk the hose lighting on fire. If wear and tear is significant, replace the hose for safety. Take out all of the grates and washable components and scrub them down. Some leftover drippings or food particles may remain from last year. Check the grease trap and be sure to clean that out as well.
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Next up is to season the grill. When everything is dry and the grill is off, coat all of the grates and gas emitters with high-heat cooking oil like canola, suggests grill manufacturer Char-Broil. Make sure the oil coats the grates and gas emitters evenly and wipe up any excess. Then light the grill and let it heat up for around 15 minutes, or until the oil burns off or starts to smoke. Doing this time after time before cooking will help the grates develop a shiny, dark finish, helping them get hotter and cook food more evenly. Lightly coat grates with oil after each use to inhibit rust as well.
correctly and to avoid any foodborne illnesses. Now you’re ready to grill the rest of the season.
After all of these steps have been taken, it’s time to take the grill for a test run. Choose your meal and begin to cook. Check the temperature of the food before serving to determine if the grill’s thermostat is working
JUNE 2016
Medication safety tips
m ed i c i ne
for children and adults Prescription and over-the-counter medications can save lives and help people of all ages manage certain conditions. When used correctly and under the guidance of a physician, medications are largely safe. It’s when medicines are used off-label, shared or taken in error that reactions and injury can occur. The American Academy of Pediatrics and their Healthy Children Organization warns that more than 7,000 children visit hospital emergency rooms every year for problems related to medication errors. Children are not the only ones in danger. Adults can make mistakes with their medications as well. For example, seniors who may be managing several different types of medications can inadvertently cause dangerous drug interactions by mixing the wrong pills.
conforms to the original prescription strength. • Fill all prescriptions at the same pharmacy and develop a rapport with the pharmacist so that potential drug interactions will be flagged. Pharmacists are well versed in medications and may be able to inform you as to the safety or risk involved in taking an over-the-counter product at the same time that you are on a prescription. • Many pills look the same. If you are confused and taking multiple medications, keep medications in the original packaging and double-check the labels before taking any medications. • Use the right dosing tools. A spoon from the kitchen is not accurate for measuring out a teaspoon of medication.
Pharmacists work diligently to help prevent medication errors. However, the general public can also do their part. The American Society of HealthSystem Pharmacists and the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy offer these medication safety tips.
• If you take multiple medications, use a pillbox to keep pills organized. The box makes it easier to manage medications and serves as a reminder if you have or have not taken a medication on a given day.
• When a new medication is prescribed, ask the doctor to explain more about it, including its intended purpose and any common side effects to be expected.
• Store medications as instructed on the label. The bathroom medicine cabinet may not be an ideal place to store medications, as bathrooms get damp, and that can compromise the
integrity of the pills. Also, bathroom cabinets are readily accessible by all, including kids. It’s better to store drugs out of sight and reach of children. Keep dangerous medications locked away. • Routinely discard expired or unneeded medications. Medicine take-back programs for disposal are a good way to remove medicines from the home and reduce the chance that others may accidentally take the medicine. • Consult with a doctor before beginning or ending medication. Medicines play important roles in personal health. When used correctly, medications are assets, but caution
• Make sure your doctor knows about all the medications you are taking, including non-prescription products, herbal remedies, dietary supplements, and vitamins. Some medications do not mix with seemingly innocent ingredients. Keep a running list of any medicines you take so you can easily and accurately share this information with your physician. • Question anything that you do not understand. Check the prescription for dosing information. For refills, make sure the refill information
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Exercise caution with herbal products
H
erbal remedies can be safe, but only when used in an informed way and with the support of a doctor. Millions of people rely on herbal remedies to treat a variety of ailments or conditions. Although the efficacy of herbal remedies is not often backed by federal monitoring organizations, many users of herbal products find them highly effective. Though these remedies come from nature, not all herbal medicines are harmless. They may have side effects or interact with mainstream medications. It is important for consumers to weigh the risks. The World Health Organization estimates that between 65 and 80 percent of the world’s population rely on alternative medicine as their primary form of healthcare, while only 10 to 30 percent of people use conventional medicine like the products that are sold over-the-counter and at pharmacies. The American Medical Association has urged its members to better educate themselves on
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alternative medicines. In fact, almost one-third of American medical schools, including Harvard University, Yale University, Georgetown University, and John’s Hopkins University, now offer coursework in alternative medicines. Perhaps because of their popularity and relative ease of purchase, herbal remedies are surrounded in misinformation. Many people believe that, because herbs are not chemical drugs, this makes them completely safe. Yet, some herbal remedies do have adverse effects, as do vitamin
Before taking any herbal remedy, discuss your treatment options with your physician. and mineral supplements. In order to be treated by both alternative and conventional medicines, individuals need to educate themselves about the truths and myths surrounding herbal products. H erbal compounds vary in strength. While many
conventional medicines are carefully produced and tested to ensure consistent potency, some herbal remedies are not. The strength of one herbal product may not be consistent from pill to pill or between brands. It can be difficult to maintain consistency with products that come from nature. Just as grapes may produce a different tasting wine year after year, herbs may not always produce the same potency. T here are side effects. Natural doesn’t always mean safe. Keep in mind that illegal drugs like marijuana and opium come from natural sources, and those drugs are far from completely safe. Even the tobacco in cigarettes is from a naturally growing plant, and smoking is responsible for the majority of lung cancer cases every year. Ginseng, ginkgo biloba and even garlic supplements can thin the blood and make one bleed more freely. Certain vitamins in high levels can be toxic. Kava kava, taken for anxiety, can sometimes cause liver damage.
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H erbs are not always regulated. In the United States, herbs are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. They don’t oversee the production, sale and use of herbal products. That means that the safety and usefulness of these remedies may not be adequately documented. H erbs and conventional medicines are not always compatible. While herbal treatment can be used in combination with traditional medicines, a medical doctor should be consulted before taking medications in tandem. Complications can arise from the interaction between conventional medicines and herbal medications. Herbs may reduce or increase the effects of certain medications that can result in organ damage or even fatality. St. John’s Wort, for example, which is used to improve mood, may reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives and also changes the plasma concentrations of omeprazole, a GERD medication.
Many people believe that, because herbs are not chemical drugs, this makes them completely safe. Yet, some herbal remedies do have adverse effects, as do vitamin and mineral supplements.
H erbal remedies may delay doctor visits, putting men and women at risk. Thanks to the relative ease with which herbal remedies can be purchased, people may put off seeing a doctor when they aren’t feeling well, preferring to try an herbal medication first. This could prolong effective treatment of disease or put off a diagnosis of a more serious ailment. Before taking any herbal remedy, discuss your treatment options with your physician. Be honest about your concerns regarding conventional medicines and try to find a solution that leads to a successful outcome.
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M E D I C A L • F O O D • C LOT H I N G • S H E LT E R • C H I L D R E N PA R E N TS • M E N TA L H E A LT H • D O N AT I O N S N E E D E D V E T E R A N S • VO LU N T E E R S • S U P P O RT G RO U P S Area codes are 254 unless otherwise noted.
MEDICAL
SHELTER
Greater Killeen Free Clinic, a United Way Agency, provides acute care for low-income, uninsured children and adults living in Bell, Coryell and Lampasas counties. Clinic check-in: 9 a.m. Tuesdays, 4:30 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays, Suite A, 718 N. 2nd St., Killeen. • Diabetes, hypertension, asthma/COPD, heart disease and thyroid disease, call 618-4211 to schedule an appointment. • Lunch n’ Learn is held monthly at the Killeen Arts and Activities Center. Location: 802 N. 2nd St. in the community development training room or the chapel. Advance registration is required. Call 254-618-4211 or e-mail mdilillo@gkfclinic.org • Mammograms available for women age 40 and over who are low income and uninsured. Appointment, call 618-4211. • Well Women’s Clinic -- Women needing gynecological services outside of family planning. Appointment, call 618-4211 or e-mail clinic@gkfclinic.org.
Killeen ISD identified 1,565 students as homeless in 2014-2015 according to the McKinney-Vento Act. Homeless Pr o g r a m Over view for students according to the website: https://www.killeenisd.org/frontPageV3/comp/ table.cfm?navBarID=2038 and click on Enrollment Documentation Exceptions. If you live under one of the following conditions, you may qualify for services under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act: • a shelter, • hotel or motel, • in a house or apartment with another family because of economic hardship or loss and family issues such as divorce, domestic violence, • an abandoned building, car, park, on the street, or campsite, • in substandard housing (lacking heat, electricity, running water; mold); or • with friends or family because you are a runaway or unaccompanied youth. If you live in one of these situations Texas State Law guarantees that you can enroll in school. You do not have to provide: proof of residency, immunization records, birth certificate, school records, or legal guardianship records. Also, go to the website to see assistance that is offered for being identified and enrolled in the McKinney Vento Homeless Program.
Cove House Free Clinic, an outreach of the Cove House in Copperas Cove, is open Tuesdays. Patient check-in: 5 to 6 p.m. at 806 E. Avenue D. Call 547-4673 or e-mail clinic@covehouse.org.
FOOD & CLOTHING KILLEEN Killeen Food Care Center Hours of Operation: Tuesdays through Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 4 to 7 p.m. Location: 210 N. 16th St. Call 554-3400. Operation Phantom Support -- Serves soldiers, veterans and their families. The Nancy Miller Food Pantry is open twice a week. Cost is $10 per month. Location: 315 E. Avenue C. Call 233-1441. Operations Phantom Support -- Clothing, furniture and other household goods, (no cost or discounted prices) at the Sgt. Leevon Ritter Support Your Troops Resale Center. Location: 317 E. Avenue C. Call 233-1441. Free school uniforms and clothing available from 9 a.m. to noon Wednesdays at East Lake Baptist Church, 3213 Lake Road. Call 690-4400 or 699-8125. COPPERAS COVE Refuge Corporation is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. Closed for lunch from noon to 1 p.m. Open from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesdays. Location: 811-A Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. Call 547-6753. HARKER HEIGHTS Harker Heights Food Center is open from 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays at the Harker Heights First Baptist Church. Location: 100 W. Ruby. Call 953-4321. NOLANVILLE Open from 2 to 6 p.m. the second and fourth Thursdays of each month at 200 N. Main St. Call Food Pantry Director Mary Faye McDonald at 254-698-6820.
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The first homeless shelter in Killeen opened Dec. 23, 2015, at 412 E. Sprott Avenue. Families In Crisis, a local nonprofit organization, operates the $1.4 million facility. Board president is Larry Moehnke. For more information, call 634-1184. Family Promise, an interfaith network, tries to assist homeless children and their families with overnight lodging, meals and achieving sustainable independence. Donations accepted to assist families in need and for a new day building. Call Dr. David Morgan at 699-0529. E-mail GFHFamilyPromise@gmail.com. In 1992, Family Promise was awarded one of 21 Points of Light, out of a field of more than 4,500 nominees, by Pres. George H.W. and Barbara Bush. Habitat for Humanity builds and sells homes with zero interest for low-income families. Bell County Habitat for Humanity was created by combining Fort Hood Area Habitat for Humanity and the Temple - Belton Habitat for Humanity, To volunteer, donate, or help with lunches, call the Habitat office at 680-4007.
CHILDREN Foster children (current and former), 16 to 25, have access to the following services: Computer, employment and job readiness services, GED training, laundry facility, life skills training, mail service, mentoring, shower facility, transitional house assistance, transportation assistance, tutoring, and connection to other local services. Project F.U.T.U.R.E. is a collaboration of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, Texas Workforce Solutions of Central Texas, Texas Workforce Commission, and Central Texas Youth Services. Call 634-0117. 24-hour crisis hotline: 800-421-8336.
Special Olympics, Killeen-Cove-Hood Phantoms ParentVolunteer group meets monthly. All parents of a special needs child are invited to attend. Information provided on available activities. Athletes and volunteers are needed for various activities. Location: 902 Condor St., Killeen. Call Joann Courtland at 254-681-8522. Anti-Victimization in Schools programs. Contact Joey W. Ellis, Aware Central Texas, 939-7582, 939-1696, e-mail jellis4067@yahoo.com or go to the website at www.awarecentraltexas.org/. Juvenile Anger Management Classes Aware has secured a new grant from the Texas Veterans Commission to pay for classes for up to $5,000 of accumulated class fees for active duty military, retirees, veterans, their spouses and dependents. •Waivers of fees for classes are available on a case-bycase basis. Classes are held in Killeen, Copperas Cove, Lampasas, Gatesville, Belton, Temple, Marble Falls, Liberty Hill, Georgetown, Contact Joey W. Ellis, education director, Aware Central Texas, 939-7582, 939-1696, e-mail jellis4067@yahoo.com or go to the website at www.awarecentraltexas.org
PARENTS Central Texas Parents’ Advocacy Group meets to improve their communication and skills and increase their knowledge when voicing concerns about their child with teachers and administrators of Killeen ISD. Parents unable to attend may e-mail questions or requests to Philemon Brown at harkerheightscommunitychurch@ hotmail.com or call 289-3861. English and Citizenship classes for adults are from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturdays at St. Joseph Catholic Church in the recreation hall, 2903 E. Rancier Avenue in Killeen. Call 699-2568. Father’s absence (statistics show) are strongly connected to abuse, poverty, behavior problems, teen pregnancy and incarceration. Go to the website at www.fatherhoodmatersinc.com. Hope Pregnancy Center offers free services such as pregnancy tests, limited OB ultrasound, operations information, referrals, maternity clothes and baby items. Call 519-3343 or 554-6822 (Killeen), or 518-4673 (Copperas Cove). Parenting -- Juvenile Anger Management Parenting and Juvenile Anger Management. Mood Management Classes / Stress Management Classes -- Parenting Sessions 1, 2, 3 or 4. Cognitive Awareness and Resource Empowerment. Cognitive Awareness and Prevention Program. VOICE Educational and Therapeutic Domestic Violence Support Groups. Education for Hope Survivors of Child Abuse Workshops and Support Groups. Aware CentralTexasVolunteerTraining Session 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5. Call Michelle Romero at 554-3494 ext 104. • Active duty military, retirees, veterans, their spouses and dependents -Aware has secured a grant from the Texas Veterans Commission to pay for classes for up to $5,000 of accumulated class fees. • Waivers of fees for classes are available on a case-bycase basis.
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Classes are held in Killeen, Copperas Cove, Lampasas, Gatesville, Belton, Temple, Marble Falls, Liberty Hill, Georgetown, Contact Joey W. Ellis, education director, Aware Central Texas, 939-7582, 939-1696, e-mail jellis4067@yahoo.com or go to the website at www.awarecentraltexas.org
Killeen Food Care Center Food donations may be dropped off from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays at 710 E. Avenue E. To make donation by check, make check payable to: Killeen Food Care Center. Mail check to: P.O. Box 1656, Killeen TX 76540.
KILLEEN
MENTAL HEALTH
Harker Heights Food Center Food donations may be dropped off from 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays at Harker Heights First Baptist Church. Location: 100 W. Ruby. Call 953-4321. To make donation by check, make check payable to: Harker Heights Food Care Center. Mail check to: P.O. Box 2238, Harker Heights TX 76548. E-mail ldawson@hhfoodcenter.org or cking@ hhfoodcenter.org.
•VFW Post 9191 Fridays from 4 to 6 p.m. Location: 3307 Zephyr Road. Call Bill Wright at 338-3944.
Nolanville Food Pantry Food donations may be dropped off from 2 to 6 p.m., the second and fourth Thursdays, 200 N. Main St. Call Food Pantry Director Mary Faye McDonald at 254-698-6820. To make donation by check, make check payable to: Nolanville Food Pantry. Mail check to: P.O. Box 8, Nolanville TX 76559.
FORT HOOD Jewish War Veterans of the U.S., Fort Hood Post 795, meets at 10 a.m. the first Sunday of each month at the Spiritual Fitness Center. You do not have to be Jewish to join. Location: Battalion Avenue and 33rd Street, Fort Hood. E-mail Edith Freyer at befrey@hot.rr.com.
Operation Stand Down Central Texas Looking for churches or organizations to donate van to transport homeless veterans to the National Guard Armory in Killeen from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on April 23. Donations needed to get homeless veterans ready for the hot Texas summer include: backpacks, large brim hats, sunscreen spray (no lotion), bug repellent, chapstick, small hand sanitizer, regular size personal items, clean and serviceable clothing and new boots and shoes for men and women. Businesses or individuals who would like to become a sponsor, go to the website at www.osdct.org or call Joann Courtland at 254-681-8522.
COPPERAS COVE Star Group - Veterans Helping Veterans Hours of operations are as follows: • Tuesdays through Fridays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; • Closed Saturdays, Sundays, Mondays and federal holidays; • Referrals for assistance, benefits information, activities and games offered Tuesdays and Thursdays; and • Free notary offered Wednesdays and Fridays. Location: 202 S. 4th St., Copperas Cove. E-mail Jonathan Haywood at haywood. veteranshelpingveterans@yahoo.com.
Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome, PTSD, Peer to Peer support is available from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. the first and third Saturdays of each month at American Legion Post 573, 225 Cox Drive, Harker Heights. Help can be found there with total confidentiality. No appointment necessary. Peer to Peer support is part of Bring Everyone In The Zone. Call Monique Ferguson 699-4348, 338-1249 or retired Command Sgt. Maj. Jack Palmer at 702-5200. National Alliance for Mental Illness, NAMI, the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization, advocates for access to services, treatment, support and research. Meetings (open to the public) begin at 6:30 p.m. the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month at the Temple VA Medical Center. Use the entrance on the Valet parking side of the hospital. Take the elevator to the 5th floor - Conference Room 5G31. Call David Chastang at 771-3638. “What To Do For Mental Health Crisis,” is for businesses, organizations and churches. The 12-hour Mental Health First Aid is available through Bring Everyone In The Zone, Inc. Call Dr. Alvin Dillard at 338-8777 or Maureen Jouett at 681-9112. Survivors of Suicide Loss Support Group, a peer facilitated support group for survivors of suicide loss, is from 6 to 7 p.m. the first Thursday of every month at Bell County Human Services. Location: 718 N. Second St., Suite B, Killeen. Email or call Janet Sutton at SOS_GFH@yahoo.com or 254-718-9502.
DONATIONS NEEDED Family Promise, an interfaith network, tries to assist homeless children and their families with overnight lodging, meals and achieving sustainable independence. Donations accepted to assist families in need and for a new day building that is needed. Call Dr. David Morgan at 699-0529. E-mail GFHFamilyPromise@gmail.com. In 1992, Family Promise was awarded one of 21 Points of Light, out of a field of more than 4,500 nominees, by President George H.W. and Barbara Bush.
Salvation Army Donation by check. Make check payable to: Salvation Army. Mail check to: P.O. Box 4330, Killeen TX 76540. Call 634-7172.
VETERANS Drivers needed to transport veterans to medical appointments at the Temple Veterans Affairs hospital. Shuttle service is usually provided from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Call 743-0515 or 743-0740.
FILING VA CLAIMS Certified Veteran’s Service Officers are available to assist veterans, widows, widowers, orphans filing VA claims. Bring DD Form 214, discharge document, all VA letters from previous claims to include all medical records pertaining to medical conditions for which claims are being sought.
•DAV Chapter 147 Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Location: 702 E. Avenue E. Appointments: Call Bill Wright at 338-3944 or Randy Brumagim at 681-4515.
•VFW Post 9192 Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Location; 301 Wolf St. Call Rocky Hernandez at 526-2767.
•VFW Post 8577 Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Location: 1506 Veterans Avenue. Call Craig Lacy at 542-2748. Emergencies only: 290-8320. HARKER HEIGHTS •DAV Chapter 29 Tuesdays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon. Location: 607-B E. Veterans Memorial Blvd. Call 699-6655. Bring Everyone Into The Zone Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome, PTSD, peer to peer support is available from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. the first and third Saturdays of each month at American Legion Post 573. No appointments required. Total confidentiality. Location: 225 Cox Drive, Harker Heights. Call Monique Ferguson 254-699-4348, 254-3381249 or retired Command Sgt. Maj. Jack Palmer at 254-702-5200.
Greater Killeen Free Clinic Donations for cost of supplies, e-mail clinic@gkfclinic. org or call 618-4211. Location: 718 N. 2nd St., Suite, A. • Mammograms provided by co-partners Metroplex Hospital and the Greater Killeen Free Clinic. • Funding for Gynecological Testing provided by Metroplex Health System of Killeen and Seton Medical Center in Harker Heights. Habitat for Humanity builds and sells homes with zero interest for low-income families. Bell County Habitat for Humanity was created by combining Fort Hood Area Habitat for Humanity and the Temple - Belton Habitat for Humanity, To volunteer, donate, or help with lunches, call the Habitat office at 680-4007.
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(continued)
Veterans with PTSD or anyone who survived a traumatic event, their spouses and caregivers support group meetings are for anyone who has been diagnosed with PTSD or wonders if they may have it. Chaplain Stephanie Handy with the Darnall Army Medical Center, Department of Ministry, leads both support groups for men and women. Call 288-8849 or 288-8850.
will be made for the record file at the cemetery. Active-duty military personnel bring letter signed by commander on letterhead paper stating they are active duty. Administration building is open from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays. Location: 11463 State Highway 195, south of Killeen. Call 616-1770.
“Who Is Your Soldier or Veteran Today?” presented by retired Chaplain William “Bill” Shelnutt is from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Tuesdays. Caregivers for Christ meets at the Spiritual Fitness Center Chapel on Fort Hood. Meeting is open to caregivers and spouses (female or male) of active duty soldiers or veterans from any conflict.
VOLUNTEER
Bring Everyone in the Zone -- Peer to Peer Support Group for veterans, active duty, guard, reserves and their families. Motto is “You Talk, We Listen.” Talking is your choice. Peer to Peer workshops are held at the following locations: •KILLEEN Bell County Human Services Help Center, 201 E. Avenue D, downtown Killeen. Thursdays: 6 to 7 p.m. Tuesdays (females only): 6 to 7 p.m. Call 254-681-9112. •FORT HOOD Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center, Department of Ministry and Pastoral Care, lower level, across from cafeteria. Tuesdays, 10 to 11 a.m. Call 254-288-8849 or 254-288-8850. •COPPERAS COVE VFW Post 8577, 1506 Veterans Avenue. Wednesdays: 8 to 9 p.m. Call 542-2748. •LAMPASAS Lampasas County Courthouse , 3rd floor, 501 E. 4th St. Tuesdays: noon to 1 p.m. Call 254-423-0399. Operation Family Caregiver program helps families of returning service members coping with health issues like traumatic brain injury, post-traumatic stress and physical disability. E-mail mail@bringeveryoneinthezone.org. For active duty military, retirees, veterans, spouses and dependents: Aware Central Texas has secured a grant from the Texas Veterans Commission to pay up to $5,000 for certain classes. Adult Anger Management, Juvenile Anger Management, Stress Management, and Survivors of Child Abuse, Survivors of Abuse Women’s Support Group classes and workshops are $20 cash per person, per class. Bring exact amount to each class. Waivers of fees for classes are available for individuals on a case-by-case basis. Classes are held in Killeen, Copperas Cove, Lampasas, Gatesville, Belton, Temple, Marble Falls, Liberty Hill, Georgetown, Contact Joey W. Ellis, education director, Aware Central Texas, 939-7582, 939-1696, e-mail jellis4067@yahoo.com or go to the website at www.awarecentraltexas.org/.
CENTRAL TEXAS STATE VETERANS CEMETERY
Pre-register for burial at the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery. Bring copy of DD Form 214 and if married, bring spouse’s identification card or marriage license. Copies
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In February, a Master Wellness Volunteer Training with face to face and online training is being offered by County AgriLife Extension. Master Wellness Volunteers receive 40 hours of education related to wellness, nutrition, childhood health, food safety, healthy food preparation, public speaking and more. The training is conducted by County Extension Agents and health professionals who have access to the latest research-based information in the area of health and wellness. Volunteers are asked to give 40 hours of volunteer service to Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. Volunteer opportunities include giving presentations for local community groups, assisting with healthy cooking demonstrations, distributing information at health fairs, working with schools and after school programs and data entry. Call Jackie McLaughlin at 254-933-5305 or e-mail Jackie.mclaughlin@ag.tamu.edu. Become a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA). Work with abused and neglected children. Training is 30 hours and at least three hours of court observation. Volunteers usually work 10 to 15 hours per month and commit to working with the child throughout their experience in the court system about 12 to 18 months. Call 774-1881 or e-mail deal.bccasa@outlook.com. Drivers needed to transport cancer patients to and from treatments. Must have current driver’s license, insurance and inspection on vehicles. Volunteers receive brief training and are reimbursed for miles driven. E-mail Velma Perez with the American Cancer Society at velma.perez@cancer.org or call 512-919-1864. Drivers to transport veterans to medical appointments at the Temple Veterans Affairs hospital. Shuttle service is usually from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Call 743-0515 or 743-0740. Fire Department -- Volunteer Fire Department in Killeen is accepting applications. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and residence (for at least the past 90 days) must be within one mile of the city of Killeen’s Fire District. Military personnel living on Fort Hood are exempt from the one-mile residency requirement. Active duty military must have a letter from their commander on official letterhead giving the soldier permission to join the Killeen Volunteer Fire Department. Applications available at Central Fire Station, 201 N. 28 St., Killeen or call D.C. Brank at 501-7671. Habitat for Humanity builds and sells homes with zero interest for low-income families. Bell County Habitat for Humanity was created by combining Fort Hood Area Habitat for Humanity and the Temple - Belton Habitat for Humanity, To volunteer, donate, or help with lunches, call the Habitat office at 680-4007.
Hope Pregnancy Center -- Killeen call 519-3343 or 5546822. Copperas Cove call 518-4673. Hospice -- Volunteers are needed to support patients and their families. Support can be companionship to the patient and respite for the caregiver that includes visits, writing letters, reading to patients, light housekeeping, running errands, or preparing a favorite meal or dessert for the patient or family. Volunteer opportunities in surrounding areas and Gatesville do not require travel to the Killeen office. Call Hospice Compassus Volunteer at 254-539-1055 and ask for Catherine Hausenfluke. Hospice -- New Century Hospice is seeking volunteers to train or experienced professionals for part-time and full-time opportunities with flexible hours available. Positions include bereavement, clerical, crafts, and direct patient care. Location: 451 E. Central Texas Expressway, Suite C, Killeen. Call Kim Kirschner at 680-5500. Hospice -- Texas Home Health is seeking volunteers for one to two hours per week providing companionship and support to patients and their families in the local area. Call 756-0404. Nursing homes seeking caring individuals to make weekly or bi-monthly visit to Killeen nursing facility residents. About 60 percents of residents do not receive visits from anyone. Training is flexible and supervision will be provided. Visits are scheduled according to what is most convenient for volunteers. Contact: Margaret Matthews, Area Agency on Aging, at margaret.matthews@ctcog.org or 800-447-7169 or 770-2345. Organ donor registry makes it easier for Texans to register as organ, tissue and eye donors. The Glenda Dawson Donate Life -- Texas Registry has information about organ donation and instructions for registering online. Takes less than five minutes to register and information is protected. Only authorized organ procurement organizations and tissue and eye banks can access registrant information. www.DonateLifeTexas.org.
MISCELLANEOUS All-Year Pioneer Farmers Market, is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays in front of Tractor Supply Company, 2002 E. Central Texas Expressway, Killeen. Call Virginia Kessel at 254-423-5277. The market is not open the Saturday after Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. The Copperas Cove Bass Club meets at 7 p.m. the first and third Tuesday of each month. Location: 502 S. Main St., Copperas Cove. Call 661-9274.
SUPPORT GROUPS KILLEEN • F aith and Recovery Group for Alcoholism meets from 8 to 9 a.m. Saturdays in the Fellowship Hall at Second Street Baptist Church, 1602 N. Second St., Killeen. Call Robert Lawrence at 254-768-2339. • Recovery Group meetings for alcoholism started on Dec. 19 at Second Street Baptist Church from 8 to 9 a.m., Church, 1602 N. 2nd St., Killeen. • A l-Anon group meets from 7 to 8 p.m. Tuesdays at Metroplex Medical Plaza, 2301 S. Clear Creek Road. Call 833-4603.
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HARKER HEIGHTS Al-Anon and Alateen meetings at Trinity Baptist Church are as follows: Al-Anon discussion is from 7 to 8 p.m. Tuesdays. Al-Anon book study is from 7 to 8 p.m. Thursdays. Alateen meeting, ages 9 to 19, is from 7 to 8 p.m. Thursdays. New member meeting is at 6:15 p.m. Thursdays. Location: 403 E. 2410 Knights Way. Email bhartbarger10@ gmail.com or call/text 290-1771. Killeen/Ft. Hood Area Alzheimer’s Support Group When: 2nd Wednesday of each month Where: Indian Oaks Living Center Time: 1:30 p.m. Questions: Call Ann Simpson (254) 526-4576 COPPERAS COVE • C elebrate Recovery, a Christ centered recovery program, meets from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays at Hillside Ministries. Nursery provided. Location: 2602 S. Farm-to-Market Road 116. Call Don Chennault at 317-8184. • C elebrate Recovery, a Christ centered recovery program, meets from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays at First Baptist Church in Copperas Cove. Child care and meal are provided. Call Dave McKee at 458-3109. BELTON Celebrate Recovery 12-step ministry for men in the Central Texas area is held at First Baptist Church Belton. Call 931-2021. SALADO Al-Anon meeting is from 6 to 7 p.m. Sundays at Salado United Methodist Church, 650 Royal St. Call 833-4603. The following support groups meet at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor Community Life Counseling Center: • A lzheimer’s and Dementia Caregivers Support Group meets from 2 to 3 p.m. Mondays. • Asperger’s and Autism Caregivers Support Group meets from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays. Clients see master’s-level graduate students in counseling sessions that are supervised by fully licensed and Texas board-approved supervisors. Cost to attend is $2 a meeting and the funds provide participants with snacks. Location: 717 College St., Belton. Call 295-5531. Cancer support and services center, Survivors & Thrivors On Purpose, aims to improve the quality of life for all who have been touched by a life-threatening disease or lifestyle debilitating illness through education, prevention, advocacy, services and research. Email survivors.thrivors.on.purpose@gmail. com, call 338-4893 or go to the website at www. survivorsthrivorsonpurpose.org.
support is available from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. the first and third Saturdays of each month at American Legion Post 573. No appointments required. Help can be found there with total confidentiality. Location: 225 Cox Drive, Harker Heights. Call Monique Ferguson 254-699-4348, 254-3381249 or retired Command Sgt. Maj. Jack Palmer at 254-702-5200. Cancer Support Group meetings are from 5:30 to 7 p.m. the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month. Location: Metroplex Medical Plaza, 2301 S. Clear Creek, room 122. Call Judy Steine at 702-5449. Challenged Citizens -- Copperas Cove Association for Challenged Citizens, Inc., meets at 6:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of each month at Lil Tex, 502 S. Main St., Copperas Cove. Call Duane Gilray at 238-4130, Barbara Burt at 542-6880 or Donna Torrez at 547-7692. Depression and bipolar disorder support group for seniors meets from 6 to 7 p.m. the third Tuesday of each month at Lions Club Park Senior Center. The group meets from 6 to 7 p.m. the first Tuesday of each month at the Bob Gilmore Senior Center. A trained facilitator leads the groups for people 55 and older and their spouses or caretakers. Meetings are free. Educational material available. Call Larry Egly at 254-630-9141. Grief Support Group meets from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at the Scott & White Clinic in Killeen. Call Terry Jackson at 724-4090. Lupus Support Group meetings are from 6:30 to 8 p.m. the second Monday of each month at Metroplex Medical Plaza, room 122. Contact: killeenarealupusgroup@gmail.com, Facebook or the Lupus Foundation of America, North Texas Chapter at 866-205-2369. Metroplex PVAMU Alumni Chapter meets once a month at 1605 N. Main St., Belton. Call Charlotte JeffersonHuggins at 220-5435. Multiple Sclerosis -- Bell County Support Group meets from 6 to 8 p.m. the third Thursday of each month at the Killeen Community Center. Bring ideas to share with the new peer led self help group. Location: 2201 E. Veterans Memorial Blvd. Contact Dee Dee Martinez at deedeemartinez@gmail. com or 768-2049.
Multiple Sclerosis -- Heart of Texas Support Group meets from 6 to 8 p.m. the third Tuesday of each month at Robertson Avenue Baptist Church. Dinner is provided. Program is adapted to people with MS and their families. Location: 305 Robertson Avenue, (across the parking lot from Walgreens), Copperas Cove. Multiple Sclerosis -- Cen-Tex Self Help Group meets the first Thursday of each month, from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Metroplex Medical Plaza, room 122, 2301 S. Clear Creek Road, Killeen. The group offers opportunities to make new friends and share experiences of life in a private setting to share common concerns, give and receive emotional support and receive MS-related information from peers and guest speakers. Call 768-2049 or 285-7984. Narcotics Anonymous -- Another Chance Group meets from noon to 1 p.m., Monday through Saturday; and from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Sunday through Tuesday and Thursday through Saturday. Location: 502-B N. 38th St. in Killeen. Overeaters Anonymous meeting -- Copperas Cove First Baptist Church from 6 to 7 p.m. Tuesdays at 300 W. Avenue B. Call 690-2943. Panic Relief, Inc., “IDEAL,” is a program designed to help manage fear, experience high self-esteem. Let go of anger and live life to the fullest. Website: wwwpanicreliefinc.com. Call Judy Schiffman at 732-940-9658. Survivors of Suicide Loss Support Group, a peer facilitated support group for survivors of suicide loss, is from 6 to 7 p.m. the first Thursday of every month at Bell County Human Services. Location: 718 N. Second St., Suite B, Killeen. Email or call Janet Sutton at SOS_GFH@yahoo.com or 254-718-9502. Take Off Pounds Sensibly -- Chapter 1004 meets Thursdays at the Special Olympics building in Killeen. Weigh-in is from 5:30 to 6 p.m. Meeting is from 6:15 to 7 p.m. Location: 902 Conder St. Call Betsy Eads at 690-6298 or Kerry Campbell at 634-6531, Take Off Pounds Sensibly -- Chapter 429 meets from 7 to 8 p.m. Tuesdays at Copperas Cove Christian Church. Call Jackie Martell at 542-3417.
Email health briefs and any changes to rolana@kdhnews.com.
Breast Cancer Support Group meets from 1 to 2 p.m. the second Tuesday of each month in the meeting room of Heart of Central Texas Independent Living. Open to women who are newly diagnosed, current patients and survivors, the group provides emotional support, friendship, and companionship to women dealing with breast cancer. Location: 222 E. Central Avenue (across the street from Cochran, Blair and Potts) Belton. E-mail Lorrie Anderson at LGATexas46@gmail.com or call 214-683-6021. Breast feeding Support Group La Leche League meeting is at 6:30 p.m. the first Thursday of each month. Location: Lovett Ledger conference room, Metroplex Hospital. Call Jenny Cresswell, 371-0412; Charlotte Durr, 2131179; Elaine Clyatt, 719-393-2638; or Melissa Fredrick, 910-818-7753. Bring Everyone Into The Zone Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome, PTSD, peer to peer
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