An Apple A Day November 2012

november 2012

Wellness For Life

Meditation for Peace and Relaxation pg. 5

H-E-B’s Feast of Sharing pg. 9

Dr. Stephanie Beidler

S EW E L L ODESSA

2425 E 8th Street 路 Odessa, Texas 79761 路 432.498.0421 路 teamsewell.com

Westview Medical Clinic

Assisted Living and Memory Care

Contact us today!

For details, more information, or to schedule an appointment, please call today.

You’ll be glad you did!

We enrich the lives of our residents, families and employees through extraordinary experiences…

Because Everyone Deserves a Great Life!

8050 Emmett Headlee Street • Odessa, Texas 79765 • (432) 847-4700 email: orch.adm@meridiansenior.com

OUR ADVERTISERS front inside Sewell Odessa

1 Standard Sales

2 First Physicians

2 Orchard Park

4 MCH ProCare Endocrinology 4 University Health Mart Pharmacy

4 Dr. Edward C. Rowland

7 The Odessa Family Y

8 Freedom Buick GMC Truck

13 Occasions Fine Jewelry 17 ORMC 19 Calvert Home Health Care

19 Furst Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery

20 Hunt Advertising 22 Lance E. Davis, MD

22 Cooking with Kim

25 MCH

26 Advanced Hearing Care at PBRC back inside National Cooling, Heating & Plumbing back cover Midland Memorial Hospital

To advertise, contact Mary at 432–550–7339 Publisher Mary Hunt, Ha! Publishing Editor Evangeline Ehl Publication Manager Mary Hunt Sales Mary Hunt Writers Kim Clinkenbeard, CPT, FNS; Joy Harriman; Wendy Hilliard; Ben McCampbell; Keliree Mitchell Photography Tyler Hollowell, Mark Swindler Design Clay Adams, Sarah Fleck, Chantel Miller

Have a great story idea for An Apple A Day? Submit your idea online at www.anapplemag.com.

Wellness For Life

28 5

24 5 Beginning Meditation 6 Aqua Zumba 9 Feast of Sharing 10 Taking a Closer Look at Video Games 12 How to Choose Vitamins & Supplements 14 Making a Difference

3527 Billy Hext Road • Odessa, TX 79765 432 550 5998 • 866 550 7329 fax 432 550 7346 www.hapublishing.com The information in this magazine is not meant to treat, diagnose, prescribe, or cure any ailment. Always check with your physician before taking any products or following any advice you have read. Always consult your physician before you start, stop, or change anything that has been previously prescribed. All content herein is the property of Ha! Publishing and may not be reprinted or reproduced in any medium without the written permission of the publisher. Some art work is used at the sole discretion of the advertiser and is not created by Hunt Advertising.

12 23

24

Get Fit With Kim: Balancing Act: Functional Fitness Woof Woof! The Dog Blog by Mindy

27 Health & Beauty: A Cup of Tea 28 Recipe: Apple, Squash & Ginger Soup

16 Great American Steakout: Wrap Up

ON THE COVER An interview with Dr. Stephanie Beidler, whose time as a teacher inspired her to become a surgeon dedicated to making a difference in her patients’ lives.

READ MORE ON PAGE 14

an apple a day november 2012

3

Join Medical Center Health System in

welcoming the newest member of the ProCare Endocrinology family.

Varuna Nargunan, M.D.

Board Certified in Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism Board Certified in Internal Medicine

Specializing in: • Diabetes Mellitus Type I and II • Gestational Diabetes • Hyper and Hypothyroidism • Thyroid Cancer and Nodules • Hyper and Hypocalcemia • Osteoporosis • High Cholesterol and Lipids

• • • • • • • •

Pituitary Disorders Menopause Hypogonadism Cushing’s Syndrome Adrenal Disorders Hirsutism Polycystic Ovarian Diseases (PCOS) Obesity Counseling

ProCare Endocrinology Located at the Wheatley Stewart Medical Pavilion 540 West 5th Street, Suite 300 Odessa, Texas 79761 (432) 640-3007 Designed by: The Laster Group Attn: Apple A Day Ad Name: MPRO 12-76 Dr. Nargunan Apple A Day Ad.indd Size: 7.75x5.0625, 4C Order# 127-1 Insertion Date: Nov

CHIROPRACTIC -

without the crunch!

Dr. Edward C. Rowland

• LOWER BAC K PA I N

• S HO U L DER PA I N

• HEA DAC HES

• KN EE PA I N

Doctor of Chiropractic

Santa Fe Square in the Anumi Day Spa 3952 E. 42nd, Ste AA • Odessa, TX 79762

(432) 617-4564

w w w. ro w l a n d c h i ro . b i z

by Joy Harriman

I

t’s uncomfortable, but we all have chaos or static running in the back of our minds. My life requires being here, being there, and going from this to that, being in a competitive work atmosphere, health concerns, budget woes, dysfunctional relationships, the telephone ringing, and the television on. Very seldom are my thoughts still. Even if I could calm the thoughts, my head has been full of static for so long, what would replace the frenzy? I’m not sure any of us knows how to slow down; or remember what it felt like to appreciate the fullness of who and what we are.

Meditation—the act of reflection or contemplation— can help us get there. Meditation’s focused and calming techniques teach how to take control of the mind rather than it being in control of us. It is the practice of meditation that allows me to focus my thoughts so the true nature of the moment at hand can be appreciated. It’s a way to wipe away the chaos of thoughts, emotions, and prejudices that muddy everyday life and to know what to do and what not to do in order to help myself the most.

The mental and physical benefits are surprising. While meditation comes in dozens of forms, including the transcendental and mindfulness methods, they all involve one thing: a heightened state of awareness.

This translates into boosting health: • Brain: Research shows that meditation can increase alpha and theta brainwave activity, which is linked to relaxation. Practicing meditation every day for as little as 12 minutes for two months can physically build up parts of the brain.

• Mood: Slipping into a meditative state can build up complex thought and positive emotions; can build mental muscle in the capability for compassion, empathy, fear, and allows greater mastery over emotions.

Continued on page 18

Sound a bit too New Agey for you? I thought so too until actually trying it. Beginning meditation did not allow me to escape reality or have an altered consciousness. Who knew? Instead it taught me to fully engage in reality. It quieted my mind until there were no thoughts left to distract me from my purpose. Initially I thought meditation was about thinking of nothing. Nope: it requires me to be very aware of my thoughts.

By focusing on my thinking process, the thoughts became less chaotic, calmer, relaxed, and then focused. I could concentrate better and not be weighed down with all the unwanted thoughts and worries. Boiled down, meditation is developing the courage and compassion to be with myself, no matter what. Once I’m able to be okay with myself— even if that means facing stuff I don’t particularly like—it changes how I deal with others and the world.

an apple a day november 2012

5

by Wendy Hilliard

T

raditional water aerobics is a safe mode of training for recovering athletes, mature adults, pregnant and overweight participants. Seldom do fit individuals consider adding an aqua aerobics class to their workout regimen. Even so, more people are discovering the benefits of exercising in the water.

In part, credit goes to a new aqua class inspired by a popular land-based class.

Tuesday and Thursday mornings, the exotic sounds of Latin and world music can be heard at the Odessa Family Y pool. Young and old alike are intensely focused on Aqua Zumba instructor Karen Perez. She gracefully transitions from Mambas to Cha-cha-chas on the pool’s deck. Her class works hard to copy her every step.

Zumba, Perez has witnessed her students make substantial fitness gains.

“One student told me she lost 38 pounds and was off her insulin injections,” Perez said.

Aside from being innovative and fun, Aqua Zumba still offers the benefits of traditional water aerobics.

“Aqua Zumba provides good cardio and toning. It’s easy on knees, hips and backs; it’s great for those who have joint issues,” Perez said.

Aqua Zumba also offers a bit of restraint when compared to its spirited land version. “Some of the ladies are self-conscious about moving and shaking their hips in front of other people. They feel more comfortable in the water because no one can see Even with the music tempo at half the speed of them moving below the water line. On the other traditional land Zumba, hand, I’ve had other dancing in water is people discover more In Aqua Zumba, it’s about how much challenging. Ideally, self-confidence and effort you put in—a person can burn participants stand in then bump themselves between 400 to 700 calories in a water anywhere from up to land Zumba,” 1 hour class. hip to neck level.

Perez said.

Depending on the depth and how quickly they’re moving, an Aqua Hope Furlow loves to dance. Moving rhythmically Zumba class moves against a water resistance that to music has always been her favorite way to keep can range from 1 to 60 pounds. fit. Over time, pain from repeated impact sent her to the pool. Furlow was curious but had few Ask the class if they are sweating, and a resounding expectations when she first learned about the Aqua “yes!” echoes around the pool.

Zumba program.

“In Aqua Zumba, it’s about how much effort you put in—a person can burn between 400 to 700 calories in a 1 hour class,” Perez said.

The ambitious Perez was one of the first instructors in Odessa to earn the specialty class certification.

In the two years since she began teaching Aqua 6 november 2012 an apple a day

“The first time I tried the class, I wasn’t sure I could do it. Then I heard the Spanish and Indian music and I loved it, I stay right in the front! The buoyancy helps with the impact but it’s still a good strenuous workout. I use more of my body in that class than any other,” Furlow said.

Furlow also complimented Perez’s expert cuing. “She’s good at signaling, she knows what she’s doing.

She keeps it interesting and changes the music often. It makes us learn something new. After class I feel good and it gives me energy,” Furlow said.

Odessa Family Y Aquatics Director Susan Mitchell has taught standard water aerobics.

Mitchell knew a water class constructed around the Zumba brand would be different from any other aquatic class offered.

“When I took the class it was hard to keep up. Aqua Zumba is lower impact but provides higher cardio.

My heart rate went up fast,” Mitchell said.

With its use of exuberant world music and dance moves, the aqua class has earned multi-generational fans.

“Aqua Zumba has a mixture of everybody, from kids to adults.

Aqua Zumba revitalized water aerobics. For some people it’s addicting,” Mitchell said.

Perez says Aqua Zumba is about atmosphere and attitude. “Get people in the water; add Latin and world music and you have a pool party!”

For more information on Aqua Zumba or other aquatic programs, contact the Odessa Family at 432–362–4301.

for youth development for healthy living for social responsibility

there’s no better time to join the odessa family y

The Odessa Family Y offers the latest in technology and equipment, well-equipped facilities, nursery care for members, certified instructors and personal trainers, and dozens of exciting classes to fit anyone’s schedule…among many other amenities!

And we have no initiation fees, no hidden fees, and no contracts.

Come see why the Odessa Family Y is the #1 choice for your health and wellness.

for more information call 432–362–4301 odessaymca.org our new extended fitness hours Mon–Thurs, 5 am - Midnight • Fri, 5 am - 10 pm Sat, 7 am - 7 pm • Sun, 1 pm - 7 pm

Mindy Chris

Gabriel

do one thing. do it well.

2012 Sierra Crew Cab

5251 E. 42nd St. Odessa, TX 79762 (432) 550–9950 • www.freedombg.com Visit us on Facebook

Feast of Sharing

I

t’s that time of year again. We’re starting to see Christmas merchandising in stores, the leftover Halloween candy is almost gone, and turkey is on the mind. Another annual event in the Permian Basin is also on tap—the H-E-B Feast of Sharing. The Permian Basin is lucky—it has two Feast of Sharing events, one in Midland and one in Odessa. The entire community is invited.

Midland kicks off the ninth season of H-E-B’s Feast of Sharing; this year’s event will be held, as usual, on the first Friday of November—that’s November 2 this year. Odessa’s is a month later, the first Friday of December, on the 7th. Both events run from 4 pm ‘til 8 pm.

The H-E-B Feast of Sharing began as a hunger prevention initiative and grew into an event where the entire community could come together for the holidays.

Everyone is invited.

The Feast of Sharing in Midland will be held at The Horseshoe Arena, 202 Cotton Flat Road.

They expect to serve between 7,500 and 8,000 people during the four-hour event on November 2. Diners will enjoy a traditional Thanksg iving-style spread—turkey, mashed potatoes, vegetable medley, rolls, and pumpkin pie. Beverages are courtesy of Pepsi. In addition to the meal, there will be live entertainment, including local bands and groups from local schools, plus non-profit booths.

There will be a kids’ area with face-painting, videoon-wheels, and book giveaway. Like all Feast of

by Ben McCampbell

Sharing events, Midland’s relies on the generosity of approximately 800 volunteers every year who give their time and hands-on work to help make the event a success. If you’d like to volunteer for the Midland event, call 432–682–2960, and they’ll be happy to put you to work.

The Odessa H-E-B Feast of Sharing will be held on December 7 at the Ector County Coliseum, Building D & E, 4201 Andrews Highway. They’ll be serving 4,000–5,000 diners. Since Thanksgiving will have already passed by then, guests will enjoy a ham dinner with mashed potatoes, vegetable medley, rolls, and apple pie. Coca-Cola will be supplying the beverages, and rolls will be from Mrs. Baird’s.

Guests can enjoy entertainment, arts and crafts, non-profit booths, and a host of kids’ activities. The Odessa event will also need about 800 volunteers; call 432–550–1348 and they’ll find you a slot.

The H-E-B Feast of Sharing began as a hunger prevention initiative and grew into an event where the entire community could come together for the holidays. Everyone is invited. This season the Feast of Sharing will be held in 31 communities—25 in Texas and 6 in Mexico (H-E-B has stores in many Mexican cities). They’ll serve more than 250,000 people; the events run from November 2 in Midland through December 24 in Corpus Christi.

How do they serve that many people in four hours?

It’s quite an operation. All the food is cooked on-site in the H-E-B Eddie Garcia Mobile Kitchen, which Continued on page 21 an apple a day november 2012

9

taking a closer look at

VIDEO GAMES D

by Ben McCampbell

oes your house echo with the constant cacophony of Super Mario Brothers, Call of Duty: Black Ops, or Grand Theft Auto? Well, take heart—you’re not alone. These and thousands of other video games have sold tens of millions of copies over the years.

But should your kids spend hours at a time at the computer or console, or should they go outside and play like kids have always done?

This leads to a question: Are video games beneficial or harmful to the kids who play them? You’ll get a lot of answers, depending on who you ask. Let’s take a look at the good and bad of this modern-day phenomenon. But first a little history.

Kind of hard to believe that we’re actually into the third generation of video game players. Some of the first kids who played video games in their youth are now grandparents. Really. The first arcade-style video game, called Galaxy Game, (long before home versions) was installed in the student union on the campus of Stanford University in 1971. It was coin-operated and was the only one of its kind ever built. But the first computer game was built much earlier; it was a version of Tic-Tac-Toe and was part of A. S. Douglas’ Ph.D. dissertation on humancomputer interaction 60 years ago, in 1952, at the University of Cambridge in England. Many of the earlier games were the playthings of scientists and researchers with too much time on their hands. The first actual video game was created by Brookhaven National Laboratory nuclear physicist William Higinbotham (who had worked on the Manhattan Project—the atomic bomb) in 1958 and was called Tennis for Two. It was played on a laboratory oscilloscope.

And S p a c e Wa r ! , 10 november 2012 an apple a day

which was created by a group of MIT students in 1961, was the first game intended for computer use. But nobody had a computer in 1961 except research labs.

Pong came along as an arcade video game in 1972, the same year that Atari Computers was founded. It took three more years for Atari to release a home version. The late seventies/early eighties saw huge growth of the video arcade game industry. Then the personal computer came along, and Pac-Man and Donkey Kong were played on the desktop.

It changed everything. Hand-held units, such as the Game Boy (1989), added to the variety. Now you can buy video games for home computers, consoles (such as Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and Wii), hand-held units, and mobile phones.

It’s a huge, well-established industry. But what are the effects—good and bad—of video games?

Among elementary and middle-school kids, boys spend more than twice the amount of time playing video games as do girls: 13 hours/week for boys to 5 hours/week for girls. So any effects will have an influence on more boys than girls. Perhaps one of the reasons that more boys than girls play video games is the nature of many of the most popular games—they’re violent. This may be the most important negative effect. Numerous studies show that video games with violent content tend to make teens more aggressive. They may be more prone to confrontation with teachers in school and fights with peers on the playground. The effect of violent video games is worsened by the interactive nature of the games. In many games, the player is rewarded for being more violent. And as in any learning process, the repetition of being rewarded for a behavior is a reinforcing mechanism for adapting that behavior.

Video games are natural teachers. However, the jury is still out on this point; some studies indicate

Vide

that teens leave the emotional effects of the game behind when they stop playing. And it may just be that people with violent personalities are simply more attracted to violent video games. But there are more negative effects. Too much time spent playing video games can cause kids to become socially isolated. Some video games teach kids the wrong values; aggression, violent behavior, and vengeance are often rewarded. Kids can pick up bad language. And negotiating and other nonviolent solutions are often not options. With the sophisticated graphics, some games can confuse fantasy and reality. They can become addictive, which can increase depression and anxiety levels in kids. And of course, time spent playing video games is time not spent doing homework, which equates to poorer academic performance. Time spent in front of a screen is also time not spent in physical activity, which some studies say may lead to obesity, muscular/skeletal and posture disorders, tendonitis, nerve compression, and carpal tunnel syndrome.

Folks, they’re too young for those problems.

But there are plenty of positive effects from playing video games. The most widely recognized of these are improved hand-to-eye coordination, fine motor and spatial skills, and computer literacy. The improved manual dexterity has already shown up in the workplace with improved skills displayed by younger laparoscopic surgeons, where surgery is performed through a small hole (rather than a large incision) by remote control and a tiny camera.

It seems that today’s fighter pilots are also more skillful than previous generations because of video game experience. The military actually uses video games in training.

Playing video games gives the brain a workout, including exercises in abstract and high-level thinking. Players have to read and follow

o ga mes are bein g us ed i n phy sica l the rapy inclu , ding that for som e Pa rkin son dise ’s ase pati ents .

instructions. In order to navigate to higher levels in some games, players have to learn perseverance; they will fail at first, and they have to stay with it to make progress. They also learn to make quick decisions based on being able to recognize and assess the situation at hand, to manage resources, and to keep a long-term goal in mind, all at the same time. Video games also teach the dynamics of risk-taking, how to deal with frustrations, and how to respond to challenges.

Some newer game systems, such as Wii, also have games that can give the body a workout.

Surprisingly, some say that the exercise dimension of video games is being embraced more by the elderly than by the young. And video games are being used in physical therapy, including that for some Parkinson’s disease patients.

So we see that video games have some negatives, but they’re not necessarily just worthless wastes of time. Parents should be most concerned about two things: time spent playing video games and the content of those games. Kids whose parents limit the amount of time spent playing do better in school, display better social skills, and experience fewer conflicts. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children spend no more than one to two hours per day in front of all electronic screens, including TV, DVDs, videos, all video games, and computers. Most kids spend about triple this recommended time. The management of kids’ involvement with video games boils down to this: being responsible parents, and being in charge. an apple a day november 2012 11

HOW TO CHOOSE VITAMINS & SUPPLEMENTS

by Joy Harriman

D

ietary supplements come in all forms: So how do we figure out which ones are really tablets, capsules, adult chewable, needed and which ones aren’t? The basic point is powders, drinks, and energy bars. Popular to look at the total diet. Supplements are not to supplements include vitamins D and E; replace the balance of the variety of foods important minerals like calcium and iron; herbs like echinacea to a healthy diet. While you need enough nutrients, and garlic; and specialty products like glucosamine, too much of some can cause problems. It can be probiotics, and fish oils. But how to find out what’s helpful to create a list of foods and supplements right for us? The bottom line in taking a dietary consumed and compare them to a list of the supplement is that it’s intended to supplement upper safe limits for nutrients at the Food & Drug the diet: not to cure, prevent, or treat diseases or Administration (www.fda.gov). replace the variety of foods important to a healthful diet. Not being one who cooks much, I thought If you want to add up your intake yourself, try one taking a vitamin meant of the charts available I didn’t have to eat the Supplements are there to help meet daily at the FDA website. It’ll healthy food. Not! give you the chance to requirements for certain nutrients. They list food, supplements, aren’t there to replace them. There are Supplements are prescription medicanot a stand-in for a healthy diet. there to help meet tions, and OTC, how daily requirements often they’re taken, and for certain nutrients. They aren’t there to replace the dosage. Then you can see what you lack or them. They are not a stand-in for a healthy diet have too much of or are getting right! which provides vitamins, minerals, and a host of (www.fda.gov/Food/DietarySupplements/Conother naturally-occurring nutrients necessary for the sumerInformation/) health of body and brain. Of course we can take a daily multivitamin to ensure that we’re getting When deciding on one of the heavily advertised the recommended daily amounts of all vitamins. daily multivitamins, check to see how much the But for now, there is just not enough evidence ingredients contribute to your current diet by adding to recommend taking extra supplements to heal, up what you eat with what’s on the bottle’s label. prevent, or make us something we aren’t.

You will want to purchase a vitamin that has an 12 november 2012 an apple a day

additional seal of approval by the US Pharmacopeia, ConsumerLab.com, or NSF International. Their approval provides assurance that the product was properly manufactured, contains the ingredients listed on the label, and does not contain harmful levels of contaminants. They do not guarantee that a product is safe or effective.

and Vitamin E (vitamin supplement) can each thin the blood, and taking any of these together can increase the potential for internal bleeding.

• St. John’s Wort (herbal supplement) reduces the effectiveness of prescription drugs for heart disease, depression, seizures, certain cancers or oral contraceptives.

There are also registered dietitians in the Permian Basin who are available for a fee to help you figure it all out. The web site www.eatright.org has a list of those who are available for consultation.

WHAT TO THINK ABOUT • Don’t decide to take dietary supplements to treat a health condition that you’ve diagnosed yourself, without consulting a health care provider.

• Don’t take supplements in place of, or in combination with, prescribed medications without your health care provider’s approval.

• Check with your health care provider about the supplements you take if you are scheduled to have any type of surgical procedure.

• The term “natural” doesn’t always mean safe. A supplement’s safety depends on many things, such as its chemical makeup, how it works in the body, how it’s prepared, and the dose used.

It’s a great idea to check with your healthcare provider before using a supplement, especially for certain groups. Pregnant and nursing women or those with some chronic medical conditions (diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, etc) will want to check first.

If you plan to use a dietary supplement in place of drugs or in combination with any drug, tell your health care provider first to avoid adverse effects.

• Coumadin (prescription medicine), ginkgo biloba (herbal supplement), aspirin (OTC drug),

Continued on page 21

by Ben McCampbell

W

hat makes us embark on a particular career path? Is it one seminal event that has so much impact that the decision is made right then, or is it a series of small experiences that gradually steer us in one career direction? Some people know at a very young age what their life’s work will be; others “wonder what they’ll do when they grow up” their entire lives.

Dr. Stephanie Beidler, who is associated with Premier Physicians in Midland and whose specialty is plastic and reconstructive surgery, was raised in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, just outside Minneapolis.

Her career idea was to become a science teacher.

She and her sister enjoyed a typical suburban

social issues and behavioral problems at a charter high school. Becoming a doctor was never a lifelong dream of hers. But one thing that opened her eyes during her time as a teacher was seeing kids receive substandard healthcare; it gradually led her to feel that she could make more of a difference in peoples’ lives by providing healthcare rather than teaching.

There were other subtle factors throughout her life which pointed her to a career in medicine. Watching a kidney transplant operation during her senior year in high school made a lasting impression. And her college boyfriend’s father was an orthopedic surgeon. The relationship didn’t last, but the idea about medicine did.

So after three years of teaching science, Stephanie Beidler enrolled in the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, where she earned her medical degree. She did her residency in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine in Chapel Hill. There she also had an NIH (National Institute of Health) basic science research fellowship, and in addition, she completed a clinical fellowship in Pediatric Craniofacial Surgery, which adds another dimension to the services she offers in her medical practice.

childhood; she was a cheerleader and played soccer.

And they spent many vacations visiting her mother’s family in Midland. She majored in psychology with an emphasis in neuroscience at the University of Wisconsin at Madison. After graduation, she joined Teach For America and taught science in a middle school in an underprivileged area on the south side of Phoenix, Arizona, for two years before moving back to Minnesota and teaching science to kids with

14 november 2012 an apple a day

One might wonder why she chose Midland. After all, it’s a thousand miles from Eden Prairie and farther than that from Chapel Hill. But she enjoyed vacations here as a child, and her family has been associated with the oil business for five generations; she has family in the Permian Basin. Plus, as evidenced by her work with Teach For America, Dr. Beidler wants to give back, and as she puts it, “Eden Prairie didn’t need it.” So she came to Midland.

In most group practices, the physicians typically work in the same suite of offices or the same building. Dr. Beidler likes her association with the

Premier Physicians group because the group doesn’t require its associate doctors to practice together in the same location; the physicians can enjoy the advantages of close professional relationships within a multi-specialty group but still maintain the atmosphere of privacy with their patients in a single-physician setting.

self-confidence. But plastic/reconstructive surgery can also enable a person to enjoy the normal life that he or she might not otherwise be able to pursue. For example, for breast But one thing that opened cancer victims whose her eyes during her time as a treatment requires teacher was seeing kids receive removal of the breast, reconstruction surgery substandard healthcare; it is very important. gradually led her to feel that she Ideally, this surgery is could make more of a difference performed immediately after the cancer surgery, in peoples’ lives by providing The impression that but it hasn’t always healthcare rather than teaching. some people have of been available in the plastic surgery is that local area. Dr. Beidler it’s just for aging Hollywood types who desperately performs this coordinated breast reconstruction want to cling to their youth. Okay, there are some surgery and foresees it to be a significant part of of those, but plastic and reconstructive surgery is her Midland practice. Reconstructive surgery can much more than that. In addition to the aesthetic also provide a new lease on life for burn victims areas of plastic surgery, such as soft tissue fillers, or patients who have major scars from surgery or liposuction, and botox, plus cosmetic face, body, trauma, such as accident victims. Her choice of and breast surgery, this medical specialty includes plastic and reconstructive surgery fits well with Dr. essential reconstructive surgeries, including scar Beidler’s desire to make a positive difference in revision and breast and skin cancer restoration. peoples’ lives.

Recovery from burns can be greatly improved with non-invasive laser treatment. This is performed after the skin grafts have healed, and it actually resurfaces the newly-healed skin to a more natural appearance and function. The emerging field of non-organ transplants—such as hand and face—is one of the most exciting and promising areas of this medical specialty.

The field of plastic and reconstructive surgery includes elective, aesthetic surgical procedures which improve the patient’s appearance and provide a more positive self-image and improved

In her spare time, Dr. Beidler enjoys spending time with family. She’s also a runner. Her favorite food?

With a chuckle, she replies, “Anything that someone else cooks.” I asked her if there’s anything she doesn’t like about the Permian Basin. She thought for a moment, then said, “Lack of trees.” Makes perfect sense when your childhood was spent in the land of 10,000 lakes and miles of forests. What does she like about living in Midland? “Having the opportunity to have an impact on the community is really appealing to me. And the people of the Permian Basin are such good people.” No wonder Dr. Stephanie Beidler feels right at home.

an apple a day november 2012 15

This year’s Great American Steakout was a huge success! Thank you to our grilling teams and everyone who participated or donated. All the proceeds from the event stay right here in the Permian Basin to help patients and families at PBRC. Thank you!

One of this year’s first place winners, the cooking team of Cliff Davis

Two of the top ten finalist in the 2013 Mustang car raffle, Debbie Fair and Jerry Lee

16 november 2012 an apple a day

One of this year’s first place winners, the cooking team of Liberty Fishing & Rental Tools

This year’s winning teams, Cliff Davis and Liberty Fishing & Rental Tools, with Tatum Hubbard and President of the PBRC Board, D.R. Nichols

Jay Hendricks showing the Harley Davidson Jacket donated

by Don Bigbie from Legacy Harley Davidson

The cooking team of Todd Welch and First Rate Mobile Homes

The band Geezer entertaining the crowd

Winner of the 2013 Mustang Auction, Robert Duncan from Double D Tongs

i want the hospital that

keeps me moving Life doesn’t sLow down. There’s no reason you should either. Joint replacement. Arthroscopic surgery. Ligament repair. These orthopedic procedures are performed skillfully at ORMC by surgeons with state-of-the-art, minimally invasive techniques that allow our patients to enjoy fast recovery times and less pain during their rehabilitation. Most of us don’t act our age. Now we don’t have to feel our age either. When you want the best, choose Odessa Regional Medical Center.

Follow us on

432-582-8677 • odessaregionalmedicalcenter.com

Continued from page 5 • Lungs and Heart: Meditation increases activity in the parasympathetic nervous system, which controls rest-and-digest functions. Following this, the lungs begin to draw deeper breaths and the heart begins to beat more slowly, causing blood vessels to relax. Regular meditation can drop blood pressure by up to four points, lowering the risk for heart disease.

• Relaxation: Adrenal glands dial back production of the stress hormone cortisol and meditation increases blood flow to the brain, which may help lower anxiety and improve memory.

• Willpower: Practicing daily meditation can lower blood sugar levels and may cut craving for salty foods.

• Immune System: Meditation helps end the mental negativity that may harm immune response. Doing this then prompts the body to step up its antibody production. Research shows meditators may be more able to fight off infections and have better pain control when injured.

Seeing good results may not happen in the first or even third or fourth (and so on) session, but it is possible. It’s contingent upon just how much focus and determination you lend to focusing your mind on meditating.

BEGINNING—THE BASICS If you think you have to sit cross-legged with your eyes closed like a Buddhist monk, you’re wrong.

Find a quiet place that you feel comfortable being in. It is best to reserve a room or area especially for your meditation It is necessary to practice practice, if possible. regularly in order to Ideally, choose a clean, experience the full benefits quiet place where you of meditation. As with any won’t be disturbed.

Either sit on a chair with activity, it is not possible your back straight, or to succeed unless you on a meditation bench, dedicate your energy or cushion. Settle into whole-heartedly towards it. a comfortable position with eyes closed and hands cupped together in your lap or relaxed on your legs. You want to feel comfortably balanced but alert.

18 november 2012 an apple a day

Notice your breathing without altering it. Just notice the rhythm of it and focus on it coming and going through your nostrils. Thoughts will arise; allow them to come and go without following them.

When you find yourself lost in your thoughts, without judgment or comment, return to focusing on your breath.

Begin with ten minutes or so daily, preferably in the morning close to awakening or evening just prior to sleep. It is necessary to practice regularly in order to experience the full benefits of meditation. As with any activity, it is not possible to succeed unless you dedicate your energy whole-heartedly towards it.

Try to meditate every day, or at least several times a week. You will find it very difficult if you let weeks or months pass without meditating. Inevitably there will be times when the last thing you want to do is meditate; but do it anyway, even if only for a few minutes. Often these difficult sessions are the most productive.

As you are more able to stay with the breath you will begin to notice that you are becoming more a witness to your thoughts.

Once you have become familiar with meditation, you can branch out into other practices. Meditation provides either antidotes to particular problems or methods for enhancing desirable qualities. You can meditate on loving-kindness or patience if you are inclined to anger. If strong desires or attachments disturb you, meditating on impermanence may provide benefit. Thinking about the potential and preciousness of human life can counteract depression. If you’re overwhelmed by the suffering in the world and want to develop the courage to help others, meditate on compassion.

With practice you will intuitively know what to do and when. This is only meant as a general guide.

However, the importance of being guided by an experienced mentor cannot be over-emphasized.

Studying with someone who has already mastered the practice is the most effective way to learn anything. We need the guidance of someone who understands thoroughly how the mind works and how it can be transformed. It is not easy finding

a qualified teacher but there are several experienced professionals in the Permian Basin.

You should be able to communicate well with your teacher and have confidence in them. It might be a while before you find the right teacher.

Don’t go on a frantic guru hunt. Take it easy and in the meantime, continue to practice your meditations and seek the advice of any practitioner whose qualities you admire and want to cultivate within yourself. Your own innate wisdom will tell you if you are headed in the right direction if you listen.

SERVICES PROVIDED Skilled Nursing • Physical Therapy Occupational Therapy • Speech Therapy Medical Social Worker • Dietician Care Connection • LifeLine

6112 N. State Hwy 349 Suite A-3 Midland, TX 79705 P (432) 686-0900 F (432) 686-0460 www.calverthomehealth.com

Matthew B. Furst, m.d., p.a.

Diplomate American Board of Surgery Diplomate American Board of Plastic Surgery

Providing specialized assessment & treatment through a full range of plastic surgery solutions.

BREAST SURGERY • Augmentation • Reduction • Reconstruction • Lift

BODY CONTOURING • Abdominoplasty • Liposuction

(432) 580-8044

318 N Alleghaney, Suite 400 Odessa, TX • 79761

Yes, we do that...

• Printing

• Business Cards

• Logo Design

• Flash Drives

• Promotional Products

• Signs

• Vehicle Graphics

• Golf Balls

• Graphic Design

• Website Design

• T-Shirts & Caps

• Much More!

3527 Billy Hext Road - Odessa

|

432.550.7339

|

info@huntadvertising.com

|

huntadvertising.com

Continued from page 13 Some herbs (for example, comfrey and kava) can harm the liver.

• Don’t think, “Even if a product may not help me, it at least won’t hurt me.” Don’t assume this is always true. Some products may become harmful when taken in high enough amounts, for a long time, or in combination with certain other substances.

• Before taking a dietary supplement, ask yourself these questions: • What are the potential health benefits of this product?

• What are its potential benefits for me?

• Does this product have any safety risks?

• What is the proper dose to take?

• How, when, and for how long should I take it?

Some products may become harmful when taken in high enough amounts, for a long time, or in combination with certain other substances.

If you don’t have the answer to these questions, talk to your health care provider, physician, or pharmacist.

Continued from page 9 has the capability of turning out 2,500 meals per hour and travels to each Feast of Sharing event. The food is cooked by a team of retired H-E-B partners and crew. With an event of this magnitude, you’d think the meal would be served in a school-cafeteria type buffet line. Nope. H-E-B likes to serve their communities, so this meal is a full sit-down dinner, and diners are served—meals, drinks, dessert­—by the volunteers. Aside from the donations of drinks and rolls, H-E-B supplies everything else.

The company doesn’t toot its own horn very loudly, but H-E-B is an exemplary corporate citizen. The H-E-B Food Bank Assistance program is one of the strongest anywhere. They deliver more than 26 million pounds of food and nonperishables worth more than $35 million to food banks in Texas and Mexico annually. The Feast of Sharing is the culmination of a year-round commitment H-E-B makes to fighting hunger.

As many in Texas can relate first-hand, when a natural disaster strikes, everything stops. There’s

no power, no water, no cooking, and little or no communications. The Eddie Garcia Mobile Kitchen used in the Feast of Sharing is part of H-E-B’s Disaster Response Unit (DRU), a convoy of almost 40 vehicles and 12 trailers which is deployed to disaster areas, such as Hurricanes Dolly and Ike in 2008 and the wildfires near Bastrop in 2011. The DRU is equipped with Spacenet’s Connexstar satellite service, which enables critical communications—including high-speed broadband data—in disaster areas where communication is vital but has been knocked out. The DRU also includes a mobile H-E-B Pharmacy unit and mobile Business Services unit which enable displaced residents to receive medications, cash checks, and pay bills.

You can enjoy the H-E-B Feast of Sharing celebrations in Midland or Odessa in two ways.

Accept the invitation to enjoy a holiday meal with a few thousand of your friends, or join the hundreds who volunteer. Either way, it’s a great way to start the holiday season. Thanks H-E-B.

an apple a day november 2012 21

Lance E. Davis, MD Dr. Robert L. Chappell Welcomes

Dr. Lance Davis is a native of Dallas, and graduated summa cum laude from the University of Texas at Austin. He received his medical degree from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center of Dallas, graduating at the top of his class with distinction. He is a member of Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society. Dr. Davis completed his internship in internal medicine at Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas. He subsequently completed his dermatology residency at Scott and White Hospital, Texas A&M Medical Center in Temple, Texas. There, he served as Chief Resident of his residency program and had extensive training in clinical and surgical dermatology for patients of all ages. Dr. Davis is Board Certified by the American Board of Dermatology.

As a Board Certified Dermatologist, Dr. Davis enjoys complex medical and surgical dermatology diagnosis and treatment. When he is not working, he enjoys spending time with his wife, Lauren, and their son, Grayson. His hobbies include snow skiing, fishing, and hunting.

2487 E. 11th, Odessa 432-333-6603

Cooking With Kim

Upcoming Cooking Classes

November I will only be teaching Private Party Cooking Classes in November. During this time I will be scheduling classes and testing new menus and recipes for 2013.

However, if you would like to receive my Kitchen Tips and Recipes throughout the month, get me your email address so I can send those to you.

Contact me at 432–557–5001 or getfitwithkim@cableone.net with any questions!

get fit with kim BALANCING ACT: FUNCTIONAL FITNESS

E

verything in life seems to be a balancing act: family, work, friends, the checkbook!

(Well, I’m still old school and use a checkbook.) But how many times do you think of your health as a balancing act? From your exercise routine, daily diet, hormones, and even your spiritual life, you must find the proper balance to live a healthy and sustained life.

Stepping off the curb—or, for some of us more gracefully-challenged souls, walking across the parking lot!—takes some degree of balance. Balance is something that most people are born with and develop in the first few years of life. As we age, we begin to lose balance at about the same rate.

The four primary components of good balance are: • Proprioception (the body’s awareness in space)—coordination, agility, balance • Vestibular system (inner ear)—controls equilibrium, balance, and your orientation to upright • Vision • Strength—primarily core, hip, and ankle If you are deficient in any of the four, the body must compensate through the other three components to maintain balance. This is similar to someone who is blind developing a good sense of smell and hearing to make up for the inability to see. While some people are born or work hard to develop these balance components (like professional athletes), not all people will ever reach superior components of balance.

When we age and become more sedentary; proprioception, vision, strength, and the vestibular system begin to decline. As balance declines in older adults, fear of falling promotes lack of movement which in turn weakens the systems further. This can be delayed by exercising and maintaining each system through Functional Training.

Functional (or balance) Training isn’t just beneficial to professional athletes and the elderly. Kids benefit greatly from functional training as it aids in their physical development. You will see children excel in sports at a higher rate with fewer injuries in comparison to their classmates who overlook this aspect of training.

It’s also important for us “middle agers” who are still competing in recreational sports. How many friends do you have (25–55 age groupers) who have come home from a weekend ski trip or flag football game with a torn ACL or “pulled” hamstring? Functional training is a key element in the prevention of these types of injuries. We tend to move in forward and backward movement patterns (sagittal plane) during our basic exercise routines of weight/strength training and cardio training while neglecting lateral and diagonal movement exercises (frontal and transverse planes). By implementing some functional training into your workouts, you can add that extra insurance and edge lacking in your fitness. And ask any of my clients, you get an amazing workout by adding a little balancing act to your routine.

We all must grow, adapt and change as our bodies age; finding the “new” balance along the way.

Change is hard especially when what used to work for you in the past has become just that—a thing of the past. Don’t be so stuck in your routine that you fail to find a healthier (and happier) balance in your life and risk your health. I’ll be writing about more balance issues in relation to your health and fitness in 2013 (including more specifics on functional training)! Feel free to contact me with any questions regarding balance training or functional training.

Special thanks to this month’s contributor: Kim Clinkenbeard, CPT, FNS getfitwithkim@cableone.net

an apple a day november 2012 23

woof, woof!

the dog blog by mindy

Keliree Mitchell founded Pet Spotters, a Facebook site dedicated to connecting lost pets with their owners after losing her own pet Chihuahua, Mindy. Woof, Woof! represents stories related to this site and is dedicated to Mindy.

A

nimal abuse and cruelty are more common than I ever thought possible.

On occasion you may hear a story on the news about severe animal cruelty, but there are hundreds that never make the news.

Just recently I heard the story of a man shooting his neighbor’s dog because it wandered onto his property. I couldn’t believe that someone would do such a terrible thing, for no reason. I’m sure the water hose would have done the trick and run the dog off. My prayers are with the family.

I decided to ask around and see if anyone knew of any other animal cruelty cases in our community.

That turned out to be a really bad idea.

Once you have heard a disturbing story, there is no delete button and you can’t un-hear it. I really have to block those stories out and only focus on the positive stories, the ones with a happy ending.

I love the stories of that special connection a family makes with a dog at a shelter and takes it home to be part of the family. It’s always a beautiful story of a family rescuing a dog. There are so many stories like that one. But more importantly, there are wonderful stories of dogs rescuing families. When you bring a dog into your family and truly make that dog part of your family, it will be for life. They will be in tune to their 24 november 2012 an apple a day

surroundings and they will understand when there is a dangerous situation.

Dogs are amazing creatures. Their intelligence and willingness to learn is incredible. You can teach a dog to do practically anything. I have seen videos of dogs doing amazing things, from jumping tall fences in a single bound to opening a refrigerator and bringing a drink to his owner. You are able to see that the animal is a vital part of a family and that is a beautiful thing. When you see these types of stories on pets, and then hear the abuse stories, it never makes any sense to me.

It’s important to recognize the many different types of abuse. It can be malnutrition, pure neglect, or a beating. After reading statistics on animal abuse, it is surprising to know how widespread the issue has become. People are so stressed and worn out from their everyday lives, the pet often receives the outcome of that stress. It may not be intentional but just a few moments of losing control. Your dog should be so happy to see you when you come home.

I know my dogs can be annoying. I will be cleaning and they will follow me around, and constantly get in my way until I finally put them outside. I just have to remember they love me and are just doing what they think is their job. There is a wonderful anonymous quote that says “I hope to be the person my dog thinks I am.” That’s who I want to be.

Special thanks to this month’s contributor: Keliree Mitchell Founder, Pet Spotters www.facebook.com/petspotters

We’ve Earned One of the

Highest Healthcare Honors in the Country.

FOUR TIMES OVER. The Joint Commission Seal of Approval™ Hospital Accreditation

Medical Center Hospital (MCH) is proud to announce that we’ve earned the Seal of Approval for Hospital AccreditationTM, plus three disease MCH Stroke Program Primary Stroke Center

specific certifications from the Joint Commission, the most respected healthcare accreditation program in the country.

Why is this important to you?

These accreditations and certifications are only awarded to hospitals and healthcare programs that are proven to meet the highest quality MCH Diabetes Program Advanced Certification in Inpatient Diabetes

standards. When you and your family visit MCH, you can be sure that the care you’ll receive will be compassionate and second to none in the Permian Basin.

MCH Bariatric Program Certified Bariatric Surgery Center The MCH Bariatric Program is currently the only program in Texas and one of only five in the United States to receive this certification.

500 West 4th Street

|

Odessa, Texas 79761

|

(432) 640-6000

Did you hear?

432.332.8244

•

620 N. Alleghaney

•

Odessa

health & beauty A CUP OF TEA

F

or centuries green tea has been used daily by cultures outside of the United States. We as Americans have only recently begun to understand the many health and beauty benefits that are received through the use of green tea. Green tea can be used as a drink or applied to the skin through lotions. There are even vitamin supplements with green tea for tablet ingestion. The benefits of green tea use are apparent in the areas of health, weight loss, and aging reduction.

NATURAL HEALTH PROPERTIES OF GREEN TEA EXTRACT Green tea extracts are naturally rich in antioxidants, which protect against the harmful effects of free radicals in the body. Free radicals naturally occur in the body and can cause accelerated aging, cancers and heart disease. Antioxidants decrease the risk of free radical effects. Studies have shown that green tea can lower cholesterol, decrease risk of cancer and heart disease, and lessen arthritis pain.

DIET AND WEIGHT LOSS WITH BENEFITS Green tea contains natural ingredients that not only flush toxins from the body but also raise the metabolic rate. It also enhances fat oxidation while providing the body with more energy with less caffeine than other energy boosting beverages.

Sipping green tea daily can help boost your energy levels and your mood while decreasing the fat production in the body.

HOW TO LOOK YOUNGER WITH GREEN TEAS Pollution, sun exposure, smoking and diet can all cause our skin to age at an accelerated rate.

Wrinkles, sunspots, and other signs of age can be treated with green tea. Many beauty product lines are realizing the benefits that the antioxidants in green tea have on the skin. It can be used as a natural exfoliant, a moisturizer and line reducer.

Companies such as Garnier are using green leaf extracts in anti-aging skin care lines. Another benefit

of green tea use is a healthy, beautiful smile. Green tea naturally has fluoride in it, which prevents cavities in the teeth.

ADDING GREEN TEA TO YOUR LIFESTYLE Green tea is now widely sold in most grocery chains as well as in local Asian market places. You can purchase 100 tea bags for less than $2. You can also find beauty products and vitamins containing green tea at most of your local drug stores. If you are interested in DIY beauty care, there are books and websites that offer more detailed tips on green tea use, including how to make your own facial spritzes and scrubs from steeping fresh green tea leaves.

Scientists are still studying green tea powders, beverages, and creams in search of additional benefits.

Green tea is becoming a widely-used product for numerous health and beauty purposes.

It is affordable and effective in maintaining a healthier and richer quality of life. Perhaps this natural product is not the only one of its kind. We may find that our neighbors to the East have even more health benefits for us to discover. The next time you are looking for a way to boost your health, look for products containing green tea and try it for yourself.

This month's article courtesy of www.freebeautytips.org

an apple a day november 2012 27

Apple, Squash & Ginger Soup

by Kim Clinkenbeard, CPT, FNS 1 ½ lbs. butternut squash 1 tsp. extra virgin olive oil 1 medium yellow onion, chopped 1 tsp. fresh ginger, grated 2 apples, peeled and chopped 2 ½ cups low-sodium organic chicken or vegetable broth ½ cup organic coconut milk ½ tsp. dried thyme Sea salt and pepper to taste Place squash in the microwave for 1–2 minutes to soften the peel. Cut squash in half and remove seeds.

Peel and chop squash into cubes. In medium saucepan, put in olive oil with 4 tsp. of broth over medium heat. Add onion and ginger. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Add chopped squash, apples, the remaining broth, coconut milk, and thyme. Bring to boil, reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes.

Remove from heat and puree in batches with food blender until smooth. Season to taste with salt & pepper.

Be careful blending hot liquids. Read your blender’s specific instructions regarding blending hot liquids.

distribution points MIDLAND Flat Belly Organics 3326 N. Midkiff Rd.

28 november 2012 an apple a day

ODESSA University Pharmacy and Medical Supplies 4850 E. University Blvd.

Graham Pharmacy 1601 W. Wall St.

Fit Family Fitness 3404 N. Midland Dr.

Harmony Health Food Shoppe 3110 E. University Blvd.

Suite A

HEB Pharmacy 3325 W. Wadley Ave.

HEB Pharmacy 3801 E. 42nd St.

Albertsons Pharmacy 1002 Andrews Hwy. 4706 N. Midkiff Rd. 3317 N. Midland Dr.

Albertsons Pharmacy 1350 E. 8th St. 4950 E. 42nd St. 2751 N. County Road W.

Walgreens Drug Store 330 N. Midland Dr. 215 Andrews Hwy. 4313 Andrews Hwy.

Walgreens Drug Store 801 Maple Ave. 2161 E. 42nd St. 1305 W. University Blvd.

The Odessa Family Y 3001 E. University Furr’s Music City Mall Smith’s Shoes 5101 Twin Towers Super Shapes 5000 E. University Blvd.

Hunt Advertising 3527 Billy Hext Rd.

It feels that good.

Air Conditioning HeAting Plumbing ro WAter insulAtion

residentiAl & CommerCiAl serViCes

Plumbing License #M17232 TACLA 018669E

An indePendent trAne deAler

MIDLAND/ODESSA

Remodeling & Conversions • New Construction • Complete Repair Services • Heat Pumps

432-580-3342 www.nationalplumbing.us

3527 Billy Hext Road • Odessa, TX 79765 432 550 5998 • 866 550 7329 fax 432 550 7346 www.hapublishing.com