TEMPERING NG THE
BODY AND SPIRIT
Homegrown “Fresh food options are driving the popularity of home farms” P. 4
Hood County News Saturday, December 29, 2012
Tips for healthy living Winter Lighten Up
Dare to
Resolve Make it something you’re likely to enjoy. Resolving to lose weight is perhaps the most popular New Year’s resolution every year. Though there’s no way to measure how many people make this resolution and stick with it, it’s safe to assume many people fall short of their weight-loss goal. That’s because the steps people must take to lose weight are not always easy to embrace. Many people join a gym in January so they can fully commit to their resolutions to lose weight. But joining a gym isn’t always the answer, as it’s easy to become intimidated at a gym where the majority of your fellow members are already in great shape. But this doesn’t mean you should shy away from your resolution. Instead, look for ways to make your resolution enjoyable so you’re more likely to stick with it. If you have resolved to lose weight but a gym isn’t for you, sign up for a dance class or join a cycling group. There’s more than one way to commit to a given resolution, and finding the most enjoyable way to tackle your resolution is often the easiest way to make it a success. Make it a realistic goal. Your resolution should be
realistic. If not, the chances of being successful are slim. Employ the buddy system. Resolutions don’t have to be a one-man show. In fact, your resolution may prove easier to keep if you can find someone to go along for the ride with you. For instance, if you have resolved to quit smoking, find a friend who also smokes and commit to your resolution together. Develop a plan before making any commitments. Before you commit to a resolution, develop a plan as to how you’re going to make that resolution a success and determine if this plan is realistic. For example, if you resolve to lose weight, part of your plan should include an exercise regimen and any dietary changes. Once you have laid out this plan, examine it to see how likely you are to stick with it. If your plan includes waking up at 6 a.m. every morning to workout and you know waking up that early is problematic for you, then you don’t have to abandon the resolution, but you might want to develop a new plan that’s more likely to be successful. The plan should be in place before you make your resolution.
Healthy in Hood D
on’t let stress or cold weather sabotage this year’s resolutions. Check out these area events geared toward keeping you and your family active and healthy throughout the winter months: Healthy Woman Presentation Date: Tuesday, January 15 Time: Noon Where: Granbury Resort Conference Center, 621 E. Pearl Description: LGMC Occupational Therapist Kim Perdue and Christopher Buchanan of the Brazos Urology Clinic will discuss women’s health issues. Admission is $2 for members. Reservations: 817-579-2955
Page 2, Saturday, December 29, 2012
Monthly Bird Walk at Acton Nature Center Date: Saturday, January 5 Time: 7 to 9 a.m. Where: Acton Nature Center, 6900 Smoky Hill Court Description: Acton Nature Center trails offer native plants and wildlife, a giant Live Oak tree, a working windmill, a butterfly garden and a natural pond full of friendly amphibians. While the nature center is open daily to hikers, bikers, and nature enthusiasts, this monthly guided walk focuses on the abundant wildlife in the area. Binoculars are encouraged. Admission is always free. Fit
When many people think of a healthy diet, a lack of flavor is often one of the first things to come to mind. That’s a common misconception, as a diet that’s healthy and full of nutrients can simultaneously be flavorful. In fact, it’s easy to enjoy many of your favorite dishes in a way that makes them much healthier. Oftentimes, a few minor alterations to a recipe is all it takes to turn the dish from high-risk to healthy. Trim the fat. No one wants to eat fat, but fat isn’t entirely bad for you. Fat can help your body absorb vitamins A, D, E and K, and replacing fat with something like carbohydrates decreases how much these valuable vitamins are absorbed. In addition, dietary fat releases chemicals in the brain that make you feel full, reducing the likelihood that you will overeat. But overconsumption of dietary fat can be dangerous, and many people simply need to trim some fat from their diets. One way to do that is to reduce how much butter, shortening or oil you use when cooking. Substitute healthier fare. Substituting items is another way to turn a favorite dish into a healthier dish without altering the flavor dramatically, if at all. For example, instead of cooking with enriched pasta, purchase whole-wheat or whole-grain pastas, which are higher in fiber and lower in calories. If a recipe calls for using milk, choose fat-free milk instead of whole milk. Doing so reduces your fat intake by nearly 8 grams per cup. Recipes can even be made healthier by simply cutting back on the main dish and adding more vegetables. Change your methods. Certain cooking techniques are healthier than others. Frying foods or cooking with fat, oil or salt is not the healthiest way to prepare a meal. Some of your favorite dishes that call for frying or cooking in oil can be just as flavorful if you opt for healthier methods like braising, broiling, grilling, or steaming. When recipes call for basting foods in oil or drippings, forgo these unhealthy options and baste foods in vegetable juice or fatfree broth instead.
Hood County News
Hood County News
Fit
Saturday, December 29, 2012, Page 3
MARY VINSON | HOOD COUNTY NEWS
WALK ABOUT: The rooster has little concern when the Becker family walks through a pen on the family-sized farm. From left, Thomas, Lavonda, Carson and barely visible Garrett Becker have a variety of animals providing food for the table.
Homegrown Fresh food options are driving the popularity of home farms BY DEBBIE SCHNEIDER HOOD COUNTY NEWS
T
hey butcher a steer every year. They have goats, chickens and bees. Until they get a garden going, the family is purchasing organic fruits and vegetables. The Beckers are part of a growing trend. The family began their home farming efforts after moving to Granbury from Benbrook about 10 years ago. Former city dwellers Thomas and Lavonda Becker moved to Hood County to be closer to family. “I grew up in Irving,” Lavonda said. “Thomas grew up in Fort Worth, but graduated from Granbury.” The Beckers built their home on a fiveacre plot, deeded from her parents’ acreage.
STARTING WITH A HEIFER “Once we got out here, my husband said we need to start raising our own beef,” Lavonda said. After getting their first heifer, the BeckPage 4, Saturday, December 29, 2012
ers decided to keep any male calves to eat. “Every year, she (the heifer) supplies us with our food. We eat a whole beef in a year,” Lavonda stated. It’s reassuring to know where your food comes from, according to Lavonda. “We don’t use antibiotics on the animals. The calves nurse on the mother, and eat grass only. We don’t fertilize and our animals are treated humanely.” It’s been said that their animals produce “the best meat ever.” Ironically, Lavonda has been a vegetarian for 30 years. “Yes, it’s somewhat comical that I’m vegetarian. But I do care about what my family is eating,” the smiling mom said.
IN THE PANTRY “We don’t eat a lot of canned goods,” Lavonda explained. “People look in our pantry and think we don’t have any food,” she said laughing. “We only shop the perimeter of the grocery store for fruits and vegetables.” Fit
“Yes, it’s somewhat comical that I’m vegetarian. But I do care about what my family is eating.” Beef-raising mom Lavonda Becker But there a few things the family must have. “We do have Jif peanut butter, and the boys won’t eat organic cereal. And we do have some soda.”
chickens in the freezer to eat,” Lavonda explained. “We now have a freezer just for chickens and another just for beef.”
PIRATE HEN HOUSE LAMBS, GOATS, RABBITS AND HENS After moving here, Lavonda said her dad suggested that the boys, Carson, now 16, and Garrett, now 15, get involved with 4-H. They’ve raised lambs, goats and rabbits. This is their fifth year to raise chickens. “Marty Vahlenkamp (extension agent) is the one who suggested that we raise chickens. I asked, ‘What do you do with them?’ “We found out about this place in Rendon that will process for $1 a bird. So we have
The Becker family farm also includes a hen house. “My husband built a chicken coop with a Granbury Pirates theme,” Lavonda said. “It’s unique.” Hens and a rooster were ordered and soon the family was getting 11-12 eggs a day. “The hens start laying at about 5 or 6 months old. Now we have fresh eggs every day,” she explained. “Different kinds of hens produce different
PLEASE SEE HOMEGROWN | 5 Hood County News
HOMEGROWN FROM PAGE 4
colors of eggs. We have blue eggs, brown and beige. But the taste is all the same.” BUSY AS A BEE: Lavonda and Thomas Becker began working with bees this year on their family farm. They expect to harvest in the spring, and look forward to making bee balm, soap and candles. The family dog, Dodger, is always interested in the family happenings at the farm.
JOURNEY KEEPS GROWING Working part-time at The Pan Handle kitchen store on the square, Lavonda said she has the opportunity to meet others with a taste for homegrown food. She’s met many who have small farms and interests in organic food. It was through the store, in fact, that she met someone who had goats for milk. “They needed someone to milk the goats while they were away. In exchange, she was willing to teach them how to make yogurt and cheese from the milk. “That’s when we learned to milk goats. Some goats have milk that is better for cheese, and some are better for yogurt. “Now we are looking at getting two goats for milking,” Lavonda stated. MARY VINSON | HOOD COUNTY NEWS
BUZZING WITH BEES Last Christmas, the Beckers decided to start dabbling with bees. “We got a bee box for Christmas,” Lavonda noted. She looks forward to making balm, soap, candles and using the honey. After joining the Dino Beekeepers group in Glen Rose, the Beckers obtained 4,000 bees last spring. “Now, I’m guessing that I have about 40,000 bees. They’ve built over 16 cones in six months. My box has a viewing window
and we can see them working,” Lavonda commented. “We haven’t collected honey yet. I will harvest in the spring.”
BECOME A PARTICIPANT “Everybody truly has to start paying attention to what they are consuming. You’ve got to open your eyes and you’ve got to know. America does things to their food that is not allowed in Europe and Canada,”
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tion is available on the internet, and there are many books on family or backyard farms at the feed store. Lavonda can be reached by email at homegrownplot@gmail.com. “It’s very helpful to network with others who are doing this,” Lavonda said of family farming.
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Lavonda commented. “People need to start thinking about farm-to-table food.” Many folks are keeping chickens in the backyard. “You could have three hens in your backyard to provide fresh eggs every day,” she explained. “Hens lay an egg a day.” Waste from the chickens is composted and put back into the Becker’s flower beds. For those ready to start a family farm, the Beckers report a vast amount of informa-
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Saturday, December 29, 2012, Page 5
Acton teacher has what it takes to go the distance BY KATHY CRUZ HOOD COUNTY NEWS
A
mber Picasso is only 31, but sometimes the second-grade teacher hobbles down the halls at Acton Elementary School like someone much older. It’s one of the down sides to training for a half-marathon. There are upsides, though - like a sense of accomplishment, physical fitness and increased energy. Picasso will be participating in her fifth Cowtown half-marathon in Fort Worth in February. It’s a 13.1-mile run. Though she’s not new to marathon-running, feeling the effects of getting older caused her this time around to undergo professional training. “Last year, I didn’t know how I was going to walk from the finish line to my car. As I’ve gotten older, it’s just gotten harder and harder,” Picasso said. “I used to be able to just show up, because I was fit.” This time, well... Picasso’s excuse - like many of us - is a busy life. She got married over the summer. And the year before that, she spent planning the
Page 6, Saturday, December 29, 2012
wedding. “I haven’t worked out for, like, two years,” she said. “I was talking to my mom and she (said), you’re going to have to do this. I have this fear. You hear on the news about people dying because they’re not prepared.” Picasso has been training since September, using a six-days-a-week regimen. Each Monday, she walks or runs for 30 minutes. Tuesday is a run day. Wednesday is cross training. Thursday is another run day. On Friday, she does stretching exercises, such as Yoga, and also does strength training. Every Saturday morning, Picasso does a long-distance run with a group of fellow trainers on the city’s hike and bike trail. Sunday, mercifully, is a day of rest. Picasso said she runs for two minutes, then walks for one minute. She keeps her energy up by nibbling on high energy snacks such as Shot Bloks, which replace electrolytes. Anyone who is thinking about training for a marathon can find plenty of tips online. Marathonrookie.com advises runners to make sure they stay hydrated, even if the temperature is cold. Runners should weigh themselves be-
MARY VINSON | HOOD COUNTY NEWS
PLEASE SEE RUNNER | 7
WHERE THERE’S A WILL: Acton Elementary second-grade teacher Amber Picasso has been training religiously for the Cowtown half-marathon, to be held in Fort Worth in February.
Physicians and specialties for the whole gang. One phone number.
817-573-DOCS No matter what kind of doctor you need, look to Lakeside Physicians. Our primary care physicians are here to provide routine checkups, health management and sick visits for your entire family. And for more specific needs, Lakeside Physicians offers convenient access to a number of specialists, covering everything from pediatrics and orthopedics to cardiology, general surgery, and more. To find a physician your family can count on, call today.
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Hood County News
RUNNER FROM PAGE 6
fore running, and work to replace whatever weight they lose while running. Six to eight ounces of water should be consumed every 20 minutes, the website advises. Water or sports drinks should be consumed two hours before and after a long-distance run to replace carbohydrates and electrolytes. Hydration belts, which hold plastic drink bottles, are helpful. Marathonrookie also recommends carrying identification at all times, including emergency contacts and the runner’s blood type. More advice: Don’t wear headphones; run facing traffic; plan routes, and let friends and family know the routes; be safe at night by running with a partner and wearing reflective clothing; and stay aware of your surroundings. Picasso said she has lost 10 pounds since she started training, and she has found that even after long run every Saturday morning, she still has energy to do other things. “The biggest thing for me this year is that on Saturday, when we’re done, I’m not done. We go shopping. I clean house. It’s weird, but that’s been the most exciting part for me,” she said. Religiously training for the popular Cowtown marathon has increased Picasso’s selfesteem, and she knows she is setting a good example for her students.
Establish a budget for the new year
R
esolutions abound come the dawn of a new year. Fitness and finances tend to dominate many people’s resolutions, with the goals of shedding a few pounds and saving more money both being popular resolutions. For those whose focus will be on finances in the coming year, establishing a budget for the new year is a good place to start. The following tips should help them plan budgets for the new year and reach their financial goals over the next 12 months. Start with your income. When you receive an earnings statements from the previous year, it should provide a clearcut picture of just how much income the household is generating. Make a list of your bills. Make a list of all of your monthly expenses, from the big ones like a mortgage payment to the smaller ones like how much you spend on a cup of coffee each day. When making a list of these expenses, make note of the day bills are due each month. This can help you determine which weeks of each month you’ll be able to save more money and which weeks you will need to tighten your belt and pay existing bills. Make a list of anticipated expenses. This may involve taking some inventory of things around the house, such as any appliances that may be on their last legs, bigger issues like a roof that may need to be replaced or a bathroom you finally plan to remodel. Once you have compiled this list,
COURTESY
BALANCE THE BUDGET IN 2013: Creating a budget can make eliminating debt and saving money easier than you’d imagine.
research how much each project figures to cost you. This should give you an idea of how realistic each project is for you, and whether or not you will be able to tackle multiple projects in the coming year. Don’t forget about debts. When establishing a budget for the year ahead, calculate how much debt you’re currently carrying. Though you can do so if you prefer, it’s best to exclude existing installment loans like a mortgage or a car note from your list of debts. Though those can be considered money you owe, they are more in line with the monthly expenses you need to live than credit card debts you simply need to get rid of. If your debt is considerable or
•
even small, see if there is anything you can remove from your list of monthly expenses so you can devote that money to eliminating your debt. Decide where you can cut costs. Chances are you’re establishing a budget because you have a specific financial goal in mind or because you examined last year’s financial statements and realized you fell short of your savings goals. So you likely know you need to cut some costs, and part of establishing a budget is deciding which costs you can cut. Some of the more common ways people cut costs at the dawn of a new year includes deciding to dine out less, canceling a cable television subscription or removing premium channels from their package, driving less to save money on fuel and forgoing storebought coffee for java they make at home. Each of these budget cuts can lead to substantial savings over a full year, and none of them are life-altering to the point of lowering a person’s quality of life. Include savings into your budget. Living on a budget is not always easy, especially for those people who are not used to doing so. When establishing your budget, include weekly, bi-weekly and monthly savings goals into the budget. If you stick to this plan, you will have something to show for your financial discipline at the end of each month, and light at the end of the tunnel can be a motivating factor as you adapt to living on a budget.
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The benefits of hydrotherapy
H
ydrotherapy can be an effective answer for a multitude of common problems, including arthritis, rheumatism, sciatica, aching joints, back pain, fatigue, insomnia, circulation, stress, muscular pain, stiffness, cramps and tension.
Pain relief Hydrotherapy has been proven to be a highly effective form of natural therapy. It works by stimulating endorphins, which in turn helps control pain and alleviate tension. The hydro bath works by releasing millions of large bubbles, which relaxes your muscular tension. It helps to reduce swollen joints, providing increased mobility and more importantly decreases the pain. The hydro bath also releases very fine bubbles. This has a soothing, tranquil effect on the body, helping to relieve stress and tension. Circulation The BestBuy hydro bath has a remarkable and almost magical ability to improve circulation. Your blood flow takes oxygen and nourishment to all your cells and tissues. When working correctly, this forms the basis of a healthy life. Good circulation also brings the benefit of good lymph drainage, which helps clear the body of toxins. Immune system Detoxing regularly leads to a stronger im-
mune system, which is then able to cope with controlling viruses, bacteria and infections. Your immune system is your internal police force and when working efficiently, helps you overcome minor infections ranging from the common cold to deadly diseases. Stress Hydrotherapy can provide the vital key to breaking the stress cycle of everyday modern life. In today’s busy world you can be prone to stress-related illnesses that can cause a wide range of physical and psychological problems including high blood pressure, headaches, digestive complaints, insomnia, depression and anxiety attacks. Stress not only affects the mind but more importantly the immune system. Complexion The hydro bath helps to regulate body temperature control by improving the efficiency of the perspiration glands. This releases toxins from your body and leaves you with a healthy, glowing complexion. If you look better, you will feel better. The oxygen flow is increased by the effect of the millions of bubbles, and this can also help reduce fluid retention and even have a dramatic effect on other ailments such as cellulite. Hydrotherapy offers an excellent way for you to regain and maintain a healthy and pain-free body.
It’s a natural treatment that can help you to revitalize and de-stress, without producing the detrimental side effects of some of today’s modern drugs. Hydrotherapy changes When you are in pain or under stress, chemical changes in the body can cause the blood pressure and pulse rate to increase. Having regular hydrotherapy treatments can help reduce such symptoms by relieving swollen joints and slowing the process of stress reaction. This will help the process of relaxing and unwinding, which assists in dealing with pain. First treatment Here is the progression for successful hydrotherapy: After 5 minutes – Blood pressure and pulse rates start to drop. After 10 minutes – Circulation improves in hands and feet, making them warmer. After 15 minutes – Muscles will relax, becoming more receptive to passive exercise. Fibrous tissues become more pliable and responsive to stretching, encouraging the release of lactic acid and other toxins from your system. After 20 minutes – Aches and pains will experience a temporary decrease in severity. Additional treatments After 3 treatments – Immune system will
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be improved. After 5 treatments – Tension, as well as emotional and physical pain will be noticeably reduced. After 10 treatments – Pain relief will be longer lasting, leading to a greater sense of well-being. After 20 treatments – A heightened tolerance to disease and depression can be expected. Skin will be clearer, and glow with health. Muscle tone and mobility will improve.
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he benefits of weight-loss surgery go beyond what the eye can see. If you are 100 pounds or more overweight, weight-loss surgery may be safer than continuing to carry around those extra pounds. National Institutes of Health found that individuals that have had surgery were less likely to develop, and more likely to recover from, diabetes and other heart disease risk factors. It may also help improve the body’s ability to control sugar levels and help lower the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke. Dr. Hart Bradley Hart, M.D., Ph.D., a member of the medical staff at Lake Granbury Medical Center (LGMC), can help you find hope and discover a whole new and healthier you. Dr. Hart performs Lap-Band weight-loss surgery. In fact, Dr. Hart is the only surgeon in north Texas using daVinci robot-assisted technology to perform the surgery, which means: ■ Quicker recovery. ■ Less scarring. ■ Less pain. Lap-Band® is the first adjustable banding device approved by the FDA. This system
does not require any cutting or stapling of the stomach. The band, which is placed around the upper portion of the stomach like a belt, helps reduce the stomach’s capacity by restricting the amount of food you are able to eat at one time. Plus, it helps you feel full faster and stay full longer. After surgery, the device can be loosened or tightened in the physician’s office to help maintain and ensure optimal weight loss. If you are interested in learning more about what Lap-Band® can offer you, attend one of LGMC’s free informational seminars. In 2013, seminars will be held the first Monday at 6 p.m. – except for July and December. Visit GranburyWeightLoss.com to learn more.
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Ask for CareFlite by Name. CareFlite is a 501(c)3 Not For Profit Air and Ground Ambulance Service Sponsored by:
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www.careflite.org Saturday, December 29, 2012, Page 11
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YOU HAVE A CHOICE: Lake Granbury Medical Center offers new moms and babies top-notch care.
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LGMC: The hometown choice for women and families “Lake Granbury Medical Center’s (LGMC) Ob/Gyns entrust their patients to our hospital because of the dedicated and compassionate staff who care for new moms and babies in our warm and welcoming environment,” said spokeswoman Dixielee Hedgecock. “More than ever, women are choosing LGMC to be their health care partner.” LGMC’s Women’s Services Center is positioned to serve the women of Hood County and surrounding communities. Significant investment in advanced technology, combined with the team of board-certified doctors, specially trained nurses and support staff, make the hospital the choice for comprehensive women’s health care.
OBSTETRICS Having a baby is a momentous time in one’s life. Expectant mothers and their loved ones can experience labor, delivery, and postpartum care in one of the large, private birthing suites. Each suite features a relaxed atmosphere with comfortable furnishings and fully-equipped surgical instrumentation at the doctors’ fingertips. For those requiring cesarean section deliveries, traditional operating rooms are just steps away. OB services include: ■ Free Tiny Toes program n Complimentary copy of “You and Your Pregnancy” ■ Free childbirth and breastfeeding classes ■ Meet Our Staff tours ■ Free Text4baby health messaging service to help care for the soon-to-be mom’s and baby’s health for the best possible start in life ■ OB TraceVu—an advanced surveillance Page 12, Saturday, December 29, 2012
system for fetal monitoring and electronic medical records ■ Family-centered visitation policy ■ 24/7 on-call nursery coverage ■ Local board-certified pediatricians—Penelope Aikin-Jackson, M.D., Kelly O’Carroll, M.D.,,Laura Power, M.D., and Delia Wright, M.D. — work collaboratively with staff to monitor newborns.
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CARE FOR ALL STAGES OF LIFE Whether addressing infertility issues, growing a family or managing menopause, LGMC is committed to providing quality care for your family, officials report. LGMC’s free Healthy Woman program empowers women with the confidence to make informed health care decisions. The program features free monthly seminars, health fairs, and educational programs focused on the emotional, physical and fiscal well-being of women.
MEET THE DOCTORS Arbabi : Taking good care of her neighbors makesKathryn Arbabi, M.D., FACOG., smile. Being an Ob/Gyn gives her the opportunity to be with women during the special times in their lives. Since 2004, when she began her practice in Granbury, her patients have received quality, personalized health care at Lake Granbury Medical Center (LGMC) for both inpatient and outpatient services. Dr. Arbabi appreciates the wonderful nursing and surgical teams who support her passion for patient education and informed decisionmaking at all the stages of a woman’s life. She says it’s special to be able to take care of peoPLEASE SEE LGMC | 13 Fit
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Cancer care provided p with iin Granbury G b y At The Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, healing is focused on a patient’s entire life — physical, emotional, and spiritual More than 6,000 patients are treated annually at our locations: Granbury, Fort Worth-Central Campus, Fort Worth-Southwest, Fort Worth-N. Medical Center, Arlington, Weatherford, Cleburne, Burleson, Mineral Wells Wells, and Stephenville Steph p enville. COURTESY
IN GOOD HANDS: Doctors are ready to care for new moms and babies at Lake Granbury Medical Center.
bot-assisted hysterectomies which can mean shorter hospital stays, less pain, and quicker recovery.
LGMC FROM PAGE 12
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ple in a close-knit community hospital. Howser : Donald Howser, M.D., FACOG, is proud his patients always receive individualized attention. He believes that women deserve health care that addresses their unique needs. In 2001, Dr. Howser chose to work in Granbury because he wanted to care for patients in a hometown setting where doctors, nurses, and staff have access to advanced technology and facilities, yet remain committed to staying focused on the patient. Over the years, major capital investments in medical technology and facility enhancements have significantly increased LGMC’s capacity. Dr. Howser has delivered nearly 3,000 babies at LGMC. Now, he also performs daVinci ro-
Vandever: Misty Vandever, M.D., FACOG considers obstetrics and gynecology a very rewarding specialty. She finds it a joyful and humbling experience to participate in major life events with her patients—from puberty to pregnancy to menopause. Dr. Vandever is happy to be caring for patients at LGMC. Her patients receive comprehensive care in attractive and well-equipped labor and delivery areas. She’s also impressed by the LGMC nursing staff’s commitment, to provide her patients with positive hospital experiences. With such a caring staff, her patients and their loved ones feel at home even while in the hospital. Dr. Vandever also performs daVinci® robot-assisted surgery.
Clip for future reference
Mobile Food Pantry delivers fresh food, meats, produce Local organizations that provide help for needy families are working together to coordinate the Tarrant Area Food Bank’s Mobile Pantry visit to Hood County once a month.
Hood County News
Here are the dates for upcoming fresh food distribution. There is no need to sign up for assistance before distribution day. Volunteers are always welcome.
SATURDAY, JAN. 19 SATURDAY, FEB. 16 SATURDAY, MARCH 16 9:30 to 11:45 a.m. Granbury First United Methodist Church Fit
Sche Sc h du dule le app p oi oint int ntme ment nts ts by by cal alli lli ling ng 1.866 866.454 454.656 6560 0 or on nline at www.thecentertx.com w ww thecentertx h com
WV DQGG ,, ´, ZDQW WR NQRZ P\ SDWLLHQ WKDW , ZDQW WR WUHDW WKHP LQ D ZD\ , KDG ZRXOG ZDQW WR EH WUHDWHG LI FFDQFHU µ O. Ann-Margaret Ochs, D. Cancer Specialist – Cleburne Granbury – Stephenville To see video of Dr. Ochs, scan this mobile barcode on your smartphone. Download a free mobile app at scanlife.com. You can also visit thecentertx.com.
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Saturday, December 29, 2012, Page 13
GETTING ALL HE CAN OUT OF THE GAME: Larry Parker of deCordova prefers to walk when he plays golf. The 64-year-old, like many, prefers the time to think about his next shot and club choice. He also enjoys the Page 14, Saturday, December 29, 2012
Golfers, step right up Walking helps the mind and body BY RICK MAUCH HOOD COUNTY NEWS
S
MARY VINSON | HOOD COUNTY NEWS
health benefits as walking 18 holes is the equivalent of walking about five miles. The Granbury High boys golf team, for example, posted nearly 50 miles of walking during the fall season. Fit
omeone once said “a bad day on the golf course is better than a good day anywhere else.” Of course, the avid golfer will attest to this. There is nothing like a day on the golf course, whether it’s shooting 75 (as I’ve heard some folks are capable of doing, and not just on the front nine) or 100. Every golfer, no matter how good or bad, has that one shot in each round that brings them back. The way I’ve always looked at it, the more swings you take, the more likely you are to find that special shot. But there is more to golf than the aforementioned. There is the wonder that comes with walking a golf course. Carts, for lack of a better phrase, are overrated. That might not set well with folks who make a living selling carts, and I’m not saying don’t use them. But few things top grabbing the bag of clubs and walking the course. “For me, I love to walk,” said deCordova Bend professional Scott Warner. “It helps me concentrate better. You can focus on your next shot, think about what club to use.” I’m hardly a great golfer, but I do find that I play better when I walk. As Warner said, there is time to think about the distance to the hole, to go over the different clubs in your bag and make the correct choice. And, as Warner also noted, lots of times walkers are faster than people in carts. “Two guys in a cart are going to two different balls, whereas walkers can go straight to their ball and hit it,” he said. And, of course, there are the health reasons for walking. Very simply put, walking is good for a person. Somewhere there is probably a survey that says four out of five doctors recommend it (haven’t you always wondered what that fifth doctor was thinking?). Larry Parker, a 64-year-old deCordova Bend resident, plays golf several times a week. Even when his playing partners take carts, he prefers to walk. “I’ve walked all my life,” he said. “Even a bad day of golf is a good day of exercise. PLEASE SEE GOLF | 15 Hood County News
The advanced medical care you need, right here at home. ([ 3HRL .YHUI\Y` 4LKPJHS *LU[LY `V\»SS ÄUK [OL HK]HUJLK TLKPJHS JHYL `V\ ULLK ^OLU `V\ ULLK P[ ( KLKPJH[LK HUK L_WLYPLUJLK TLKPJHS Z[HMM VMMLYZ ZLY]PJLZ YHUNPUN MYVT LTLYNLUJ` JHYL HUK NLULYHS Z\YNLY` [V YHKPVSVN` HUK TVYL ;OL X\HSP[` JHYL `V\ ULLK PZ YPNO[ OLYL H[ OVTL
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Saturday, December 29, 2012, Page 15
GOLF FROM PAGE 14
“I play my best golf when I walk.� I play a lot of par-3 golf around the Metroplex. With the schedule of a sports editor and a busy dad/husband, it’s rare that I can find the time to squeeze in a full 18 on a regulation course. And when I do get on a regulation course, it’s often only for nine holes. But whether it’s par-3 or nine holes of regulation, walking is always a plus. “You’re not getting cardio, but you’re burning calories,� said Parker. “Out here at deCordova we’ve got some pretty good hills, so that certainly helps. “A majority of folks are spoiled by the convenience of a cart. A lot would not even think about playing without one. Those who can walk but don’t are missing a great benefit of the game.� High school golfers walk regularly in competition, and even in practice. Granbury High coach Steve Ward, whose team is one of the best around, said conditioning is a big part of high school golf. “Walking 18 holes you put in five to six miles when it is done,� he said. “Those last four holes get tough when fatigue sets in. “Some tournaments are 36 holes (the Bart Granger, for example). They are putting in 12 miles for the day lasting 10 hours. “Our varsity golfers walked over 48 miles this fall in tournaments.� Carrying one’s own bag adds to the benefit, Ward said. I prefer the pull cart my daughter got me last Father’s Day, but some courses don’t allow them, so in that case I’m toting. “The average golf bag weighs 15-20 pounds,� said Ward. “Being in golf shape is important to shooting good scores.� And, repeating a recurring theme among walkers, Ward agreed that the best scores come from walking. “Riding in carts gets you there (to the ball) too fast, and you don’t get the true feel of the game,� he said. Most of us may never have the game of Tiger Woods or Phil Mickelson, but we can at least enjoy the same health benefits of the sports. And who knows, maybe somewhere during the round we’ll hit that special shot that would make Ol’ Lefty look at us and say, “Good shot.� Nah, but walking at least gives us more time to imagine it.
COURTESY
GOOD DAY FOR WALK: Golfers get extra exercise when they walk instead of riding in a cart. speditor@hcnews.com|817-573-7066, ext. 256
Page 16, Saturday, December 29, 2012
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FREE fresh air G
etting your daily dose of fresh air is one of the best ways to stay healthy, whether it’s a stroll down the street or a game of tag in the backyard. There are many beautiful streets and parks in Hood County, but if you’re searching for a peaceful place to walk, bike or run, our county is blessed with well-maintained trails. COURTESY
Moments in Time Hike and Bike Trail: This 8-foot-wide concrete trail winds from Shanley Park/Houston Street Park to Granbury Municipal Airport. The 2.17-mile path takes hikers and bikers past the water fountains, streams, picnic areas and playground equipment.
City Park Loop: Just beyond the Dana Vollmer Municipal Swim Center lies a
1-mile hiking/biking concrete loop, which winds past the baseball field, soccer fields, a pavillion, playground equipment and lots of shady trees. Acton Nature Center: Rio Brazos Master Naturalists and Lake Granbury Master Gardeners have turned this 73.96-acre plot of land into one of the county’s most prized possessions. The center has two unpaved
trails. The Travis Hiking Trail, approximately 1 mile, features a record-size Juniper tree, a heavily-shaded area perfect for picnicing and a small pond full of happy frogs. The Bowie Bike Trail, approximately 3 miles, boasts scenic vistas, a hummingbird and butterfly garden, a fully functional windmill and wildflowers galore. Hewlett Park: See Granbury from a whole
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new perspective by leaving the car at Hewlett Park, across from the Granbury Resort Conference Center, and taking the concrete trail underneath Pearl Street, past the lakeside convention center, over to the fishing pier and head down to the Granbury square for a day of shopping and sight-seeing.
www.quailparkofgranbury.com Fit
Saturday, December 29, 2012, Page 17
Good for the soul MARK WILSON/HOOD COUNTY NEWS
ALWAYS IN MOTION: Judy Morrison (left) and Evelyn Vergne met while exercising regularly at the YMCA and became good friends. Both are 64, and stay active in
classes such as yoga, Pilates and range of motion as well as taking advantage of other options such as weight lifting and various exercise machines.
‘You don’t meet grouchy people at the Y’ BY MARK WILSON HOOD COUNTY NEWS
Older adults who exercise regularly seem to enjoy the experience. Evelyn Vergne, a California girl, and Judy Morrison – born in Ohio, but a longtime Texan – met while exercising at the YMCA in Granbury and became good friends. Both are 64.
Morrison has lived here about eight years since moving from Coppell. She began going to the Y about a year ago. “And I met all these lovely yoga girls,” said Morrision, adding, “You don’t meet grouchy people at the Y.” She’s motivated by a desire to avoid potential health problems. “My goal is to be as healthy as I can, given the current health care situation,” said Morrison, who is also enrolled in a healthy life-
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style program that deals, in part, with nutrition. “And I’ve met some great people here. It doesn’t matter what the age. I love the age variety at the Y.” Morrison said she used to be involved in Jazzercise. She also ran half marathons every Saturday for seven years, and met her husband doing that. Now, in addition to yoga, she does Pilates and lifts weights. “Pilates works on your inner core,” Morri-
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son said. “My core is stronger.” She said she lost 38 pounds in about a year and a half, through exercise. “When you exercise, your perspective of eating changes,” Morrison said, emphasizing that it can also help control blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes. “You actually get more energy. You get more done.” She said she has sugar cravings, but she’s
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YMCA FROM PAGE 18
able to control those urges. “I forgot how much I loved to exercise until I retired,” Morrison said. Morrison said she loves the instructors at the Y, and it is “just such a positive influence.” But, she said, the most important thing is to start exercising – somewhere. “It doesn’t matter where you work out, as long as you work out,” Morrison said. “There’s so many classes to start out at all levels. You just need to get started.” Vergne, originally from Burbank, said she came to the YMCA to join a yoga class because she wanted to maintain good flexibility, strength and balance as she grows older. She ended up partaking in zumba and range of motion classes at the Y, and also enjoys the treadmill. “It gives me more energy, more motivation, mental alertness,” said Vergne, who has stayed active through exercise since she was in her 30s even though she didn’t have a weight problem. “The more active you are, it kind of snowballs,” she added. The social aspect has been great, too, she said. “We reinforce each other,” said Vergne, who moved to Hood County about six years ago. “And laughter. We laugh a lot.” The positive social aspect among those who exercise is obvious when Jim Soileau is around. He’s an outgoing man who seems to easily attract friends. Soileau, who turned 70 on Nov. 23, is a big man with an equally big, fun-loving personality. He said he has been physically active his whole life. That included playing non-scholarship football at La-
mar Tech in Beaumont. He said that when he went into the military and went to boot camp, he lost 115 pounds in only 90 days – losing every ounce of his “baby fat.” “I kept it off for years,” Soileau said, noting that he was involved in recreational activities and also running 5 to 7 miles a day. Now he’s 6-2, 230 pounds. He was an electrician who retired at age 54 following a career in construction. Although he has never been big on eating sweets, he was diagnosed with diabetes. “I went on medication. It was helping, but it wasn’t fixing the problem,” Soileau said. “I was told to do exercise to get my blood sugar down.” Now he comes to the Y five days a week with his wife Joni, and enjoys the treadmill and weight machines as well as various classes. He admitted he still needs to work on improving his diet, however. He said he enjoys dance classes the most. Soileau said he is pleased with improvements in his flexibility and muscle tone. But he said his favorite thing is the social aspect because he finds so much in common with those he meets while exercising. Soileau had some advice for others his age and up who have convinced themselves not to exercise. “It’s easy to sit on the couch and get depressed,” Soileau said. “Come down here and give it a whirl. There are many people here their age to impart their knowledge. “When you get older, you sort of become a hermit. Here you have camaraderie. They’ll see there are people even older than they are doing it and enjoying it.”
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