where ballet barre meets yoga and pilates. TM offering highly effective 60-minute workouts designed to lift the entire body. classen curve studio 5800 n. classen blvd., ste. #2 oklahoma city, ok 73118 405.463.3343 edmond studio 1189 e. 15th, ste. #124 edmond, ok 73013 405.513.6393 www.barre3.com/okc www.barre3.com/edmond
“Give Yourself the Gift of Health”
4th Annual SYMPOSIUM & EXPO Event Doors Open 9:00 a.m. • Saturday December 1, 2012 in conjunction with the YMCA OF GREATER OKLAHOMA CITY, Rockwell Plaza location
5909 NW Expressway, Oklahoma City, OK behind Target store at NW Expressway & Rockwell.
Symposium Guest Speakers:
10:30 am - Jill Hast, MD Medical Director at CDI presenting The Importance of Early Detection with Digital Mammography 12:30 pm - Mary Schrick, ND, PhD from Full Circle Health Clinic Finding Your Hormone Balance
Visit: thriveokwellness.com for event details & booth information
1:30 pm - Tony Greene, DC from Brixton Chiropractic & Acupuncture Tackle Low Back Pain
Activities:
Tour the YMCA Rockwell facility. Meet the staff. Participate in yoga and Zumba. Cooking demos for the party season. Don’t be another statistic, come learn how to resist temptations and still feel full and satisfied!
Screenings:
BP, medication consultations, TB, spinal screenings and more. FREE chair massages. FREE healthy snacks & refreshments. Meet local & professional athletes, try out the latest in skin care and body wraps that make you look and feel years younger. Get the educational materials you need for an active healthy lifestyle here in Oklahoma.
Digital Mammography at Expo
Call to pre-schedule your appointment
1-800-422-4626
nurturing body and mind
Publisher / CEO Angela C. Slovak, Ph.D. Creative Director Barbara Kardokus Creative Design Staff Lauren Rust Editorial Manager Jan Collymore Accounts Manager Sherrie Heskett (405)760-8856 Contributing Authors Wallace Nelson, N.D. Meredith Blalock, N.D Sherry Ross, R.Ph. Erika Huffman Paul Fairchild Casey Campbell, MS, RD, LD Gentry McEown Randy Sadler
VISIT
www.thriveok.com
to view the digital issues of Thrive also friend us on facebook!
www.facebook.com/okchealthandwellnessgroup
Robin Fernandez, NCC
Subscribe today online at www.thriveok.com
Laura McIver
Only $18.00 a year to your door
Rachel Yates Megan Brown-Ellis, M. Ed.
Jessica Sanchez Bryant Welbourne Andrea Mason
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Sara Alavi
Oct 2012
Timothy L. Trujillo Stan Marker Photo Support Joel Gilliland Photography
On the cover . . . The master minds behind the globally-inspired cuisine at the newly opened Vast restaurant atop Devon Tower. Chefs Andrew Black and Patrick Williams aim to please a wide variety of sophisticated pallets when guests find their way to the 49th floor via the express elevator system that zooms you to the top in less than one minute! Read the full story and interview with the chefs behind Vast on page 28 . Enjoy the season . . .
Georgia R. Read
For other advertising questions about
Amy Nickerson
Thrive Magazine or Health Expo information
Evergreen Productions Brian Slovak Randy Sadler
please call us at 405.210.8205 or e-mail thriveokinfo@gmail.com
Lauren Dennison Nicole Renard Photography
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Copyright Š 2012 by Thrive Oklahoma Nurturing Body & Mind and Green Apple Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction without the expressed written permission of the publisher is prohibited. Thrive Oklahoma Magazine assumes no responsibility for the content of articles or advertisements, in that the views expressed therein may not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or any magazine employee or contributor. Content in this publication should not replace the advice or your physician. This publication and all its contents are copyrighted.
From the Publisher’s Desk My mother used to always say to me, “The older you get the faster time seems to go by.” I never took any stock in that while growing up. My life as a young girl growing up seemed to almost stand still from my perspective and I couldn’t wait to be an adult. But looking back on this year as we approach the holiday season, I can’t believe how fast 2012 went by and how wise my mother is. The speed with which time flies by must be in direct relation to the amount of work we are involved in. This year held some amazing opportunities for growth, not only with this business but personally as well. Time does go by fast when you’re completely engaged in the work you love to do and a collateral benefit of this is personal growth and bonding with my children as they developed this year. Earlier this year I had a conversation with Mayor Mick Cornett and he told me, he will soon be done building this city’s sidewalks and bike trails, but the work we are trying to accomplish with Thrive takes a long time because it involves changing people’s lives. That was very profound to me and the only response I could come up with in that moment was, “That’s okay, I’m tenacious!” Despite the fact that Oklahoma consistently ranks in the top five most obese states in the nation, Oklahomans are making substantial strides in living healthier lifestyles. Slowly but surely, the efforts to improve education and access to great opportunities for living well here in Oklahoma are what drive these improvements. Certain behaviors or factors that have been proven over time to pose a relative risk to an individual’s future health include use of tobacco products, excessive alcohol consumption, morbid obesity and chronic viral or bacterial infections. Other family or lifestyle related factors, which also affect future health include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and heart disease. Thrive magazine has been dedicated to bringing readers up-to-date information that not only affects their personal health and wellness but ultimately helps strengthen families. I want to thank everyone involved with Thrive over the years who has rolled up their sleeves and put in the hard work to make something truly unique and super informative for our community and beyond. Literally, folks from all over the world have read articles published in Thrive Oklahoma magazine! This could not be accomplished without a fabulous team – Thank you all. In this holiday issue you’ll find an invitation to join us for our annual health and wellness expo co-hosted by the YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City, Rockwell Plaza location. This free community health expo will be held Saturday, December 1st (see page 3 and 8 for more details). If you’re looking for ways to stay active outdoors when the temperatures drop in OKC, there’s plenty to do at the Myriad Gardens and Downtown this season starting in November. Fun details with times and dates start on page 24. Watch for helpful information on the Affordable Care Act with Nan Bertone, owner of Personal Health Partners in Edmond in our annual Thrive Oklahoma Fitness Guide coming out in January 2013. We will describe how employer-funded insurance programs will be using measurable health indicators to determine the cost of employing individuals who participate in unhealthy practices, or have certain risk factors. Your health status could mean the difference between hundreds or thousands of dollars of savings for you each year. The New Year will also bring Thrive readers a fitness and wellness series that looks into the life of a profession female athlete, Doc Amanda Stevens and physician articles on the chronic problems of arthritis.
Be well and thrive, Publisher, Thrive Magazine Founder of OKC Health and Wellness Group Thrive Oklahoma
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Features 16 18
OU Children’s Physicians Launches PEER Clinic by Casey Campbell, MS, RD, LD Superstore Giant Gives 5% Cash Back by Paul Fairchild and Angela C. Slovak, Ph.D.
28 Vast Food Atop Devon Tower by Erika Huffman and Angela C. Slovak, Ph.D.
Thriving This Season 13 Misfortune Becomes Motivation: Adaptive Sports by Bryant Welbourne 46 Meet Doc Amanda Stevens Oklahoma’s IRONMAN by Randy Sadler 6
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9 The Holly Jolly Holiday by Laura McIver 11 14 20 24 30
46 46
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Living Well
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Keeping Busy With the Kids On Holiday Break by Megan Brown-Ellis, M. Ed. Do You Know What To Do . . . Question, Persuade, Refer by Rachel Yates
Hormone Levels: Not Too High, Not Too Low by Sherry Ross, R.Ph. DSACO Buddy Walk: Addison’s Army Mind / Body by Jessica Sanchez 22 Balance with Andrea Mason A Natural Approach To Preventing Flu 33 The Healing Power of Herbs by Meredith Blalock, N.D. by Timothy L. Trujillo Ways To Stay Active Even When the 40 Give Meditation A Try Temperature Drops by Sara Alavi by Gentry McEown Holiday Attitudes of Gratitude Recipes by Robin Fernandez, NCC 32 Heart Healthy Holiday Recipes by American Heart Association 32 The Frightening Diagnosis of Diabetes by Wallace Nelson, N.D.
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The Holly Jolly Holidays by Laura McIver
The continual holiday food fest that seems to start around Halloween and generally ends with a New Year’s Resolution to eat healthier and to lose all that weight you gained during that time period is a treacherous one for dieters. It is estimated that the average American gains anywhere from one to five pounds during this time period. That’s more than 3 million pounds! And a whole lot of eating. So with that thought in mind, how can you be one of the folks that doesn’t add to that statistic?
Deck the Refrigerator . . .
Select healthy food choices and cut out as many sweets as you can that may be lurking in your cupboards. Modify the recipes of your favorite holiday treats to help keep the calorie count down. Try applesauce in cakes and homemade bread recipes instead of oil, use natural stevia instead of sugar and coconut oil whenever possible.
Rock Around the House . . .
Get any type of exercise you can in order to work-in some extra calorie burners. Find ways to add activity into your daily routine, even your mall shopping can be aerobic exercise is better than no exercise!
We Need a Little Water . . .
Keep the body in balance. Be sure to drink lots of water everyday during the cooler months. By alternating calorie-laden drinks with water during the day, it will help keep the calories in check, will help you feel more full and your brain will thank you.
Jing-A-Ling Your Calorie Bank
On the days you don’t have a party or family dinner to attend, be extra mindful...put some calories away in your calorie bank. When you need to cash them in for a special “splurge” day you won’t go over your calorie budget.
Let There Be Planning . . .
Make sure you are not overly hungry upon arriving at a food-laden event. Eating several small meals each day and not skipping breakfast will help head-off over-indulging behavior.
With just a little imaginative planning you too can enjoy
“The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!”
. . . And remember, you’re always worth it!!
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Improving the Image and Appearance of Oklahoma City Since 1971, OKC Beautiful has involved thousands of volunteers in making Oklahoma City a more vibrant community through beautification, clean-up and education efforts. Beyond improving the aesthetic appeal of Oklahoma City, OKC Beautiful positively impacts economic development, business success, visitors’ impressions and residents’ quality of life. Landscaping and litter removal develop pride and ownership among our residents and encourage them to keep those spaces maintained. Nearby businesses and homeowners are inspired to improve their spaces too, magnifying the impact of each project. We take our mission a step further by educating Oklahoma City residents of all ages about the long-term effects and sustainability of our beautification efforts, ensuring the continued improvement of our city for future generations.
Each year OKC Beautiful. . . • plants hundreds of trees and wildflowers • picks up thousands of pounds of litter • landscapes public spaces • maintains city parks and • teaches thousands of students how to keep the environment clean OKC Beautiful relies on the generosity of private residents and organizations to complete their projects and fulfill their mission to improve the image and appearance of Oklahoma City. Special thanks to . . .
Winners of last years Recycled Art Exhibit at the Science Museum Oklahoma Brimstone The Dragon Created by Michal Sass
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Hormone Levels: Not Too High, Not Too Low by Sherry Ross, R.Ph.
Being female involves being at the mercy of tiny amounts of substances secreted in the blood called hormones. It depends on how the body is able to utilize these hormones, as to how well you are going to feel everyday. Having balanced hormones makes you have more energy, healthy skin and hair, strong bones, regular sleep, and normal menstrual cycles. Most women are healthy and symptom free for most of their lives. However, some women may have mood swings, hot flashes, fatigue, and weight gain to name a few symptoms. Yet doctors will state over and over that a woman having some or all of these symptoms is fine. Most women are familiar with the female hormone estrogen; yet they don’t understand what estrogens do for their body. Estrogens play a vital role in stimulating reproductive organs, maintaining healthy bones, keeping the cardiovascular system healthy, and increasing the amount of neurotransmitters in the brain. There are three main types of estrogens found in the bloodstream: estrone, estriol and estradiol. Each one of these plays a different role in a woman feeling balanced and at her best. Estrone is the most dominant form of estrogen after menopause and is the most cancer causing form. Meanwhile, estriol has fewer side effects and plays a protective role in the female body. It also helps prevent the aging process. Estradiol is the most potent of the three forms of estrogen. While low estradiol is unheard of in younger women, it is more common in post menopausal women. This includes women who have had hysterectomies or any other surgical removal of reproductive organs. High estradiol is usually the result of excessive androgen production. Androgens naturally get converted to estrogen. Symptoms of estrogen dominance can include mood swings, irritability, anxiety, weight gain, and even thyroid deficiency. Maintaining a diet rich in cruciferous vegetables, regular exercise and the use of natural
progesterone can help lower abnormally high levels of estrogen. Progesterone should be thought of as a hormone that governs the actions of other hormones. Progestrone is necessary to counter the effects of estrogen imbalance. Low progesterone is commonly seen in women who no longer ovulate or in women using contraception. Most women find their symptoms to be the same whether they are high or low in this hormone. These symptoms include bloating, dizziness, and yeast infections, among other things. Testosterone and DHEA( Dehydroepiandrosterone) are the essential androgens. Testosterone is necessary for energy, maintaining muscle and bone mass, immune function, as well as keeping the brain functioning correctly. Symptoms of low testosterone can include depression, loss of bone, vaginal dryness and low libido. Commonly, low testosterone levels develop as part of the aging process or from surgical removal of the reproductive organs. However, high testosterone levels can cause hair loss, oily skin and increased body hair. As we age low DHEA levels can be related to adrenal exhaustion, which can lead to accelerated aging. If either of these androgen levels becomes out of balance, it can contribute to poor health and high blood sugar. Cortisol is a hormone produced in the adrenal glands in response to stressful situations. While cortisol is essential for regulating the immune system, reducing inflammation, and making glucose work, it is also the primary energy source for the brain. Normally, cortisol can be helpful, but constant exposure can cause premature aging. High levels can breakdown body tissues, disturb sleep, cause weight gain, fatigue and anxiety. Low cortisol levels indicate adrenal exhaustion, but levels can be raised by adequate sleep, continued on page 12
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Hormone Levels continued from page 11 exercise, proper diet and natural progesterone. Nutritional supplements can also help to correct cortisol levels. Simple saliva or blood testing can reveal your hormone levels. With this information your doctor can discuss with you the necessary steps you need to take to correct your unbalanced hormones and get rid of symptoms. With the use of bio identical hormones it is possible to feel better and achieve a healthier lifestyle. Ask your physician about bio identical hormones to start creating a more energetic and happier you. Sherry Ross, RPh recently attended The Annual Restorative Medicine Conference in San Diego. The conference reviewed many topics including adrenal and thyroid health and natural hormone therapies. If you would like more information about these topics please call 405-341-1683 or visit our website www.sherrysdrug.com
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Misfortune Becomes Motivation . . . New Community Adaptive Sports Program by Bryant Welbourne What started out as a typical bicycle ride turned into a nightmare in a matter of seconds for Jack McMahan. In 2004, the insurance agent and excelling amateur cyclist was out for a spin when his life was changed forever. “I had a serious accident on a bike,” described McMahon. “I flipped and had a serious injury which has left me a quadriplegic.” While many in this situation would simply conform to the circumstances and give up on recreational activity, McMahan turned his misfortune into motivation to inspire others in his situation to get out and enjoy two of his great passions, athletic activities and the outdoors. “I really wanted to find some way to go back and do the things I love.” As McMahan was toying with ways he could provide world-class outdoor experiences to those with disabilities, he was introduced to Mike Knopp, executive director of the Oklahoma City Boathouse Foundation. Unbeknownst to McMahan, Knopp and OKC Riversport were looking to expand their adaptive programs to include a new paddling program. The two met and collaborated on the idea of being able to provide a safe, fun adaptive paddling program. “I made sure that Mike understood that my strength was my own personal desire to get back into recreation,” said McMahan Participants in the OKC Riversport Community Adaptive Paddling program meet every Saturday during fall afternoon to take to the water in kayaks that have been adapted to meet the needs of these athletes. The program is open to anyone with a disability who has the desire to get on the water and fits the program’s eligibility standards. “Initially, our pilot program focuses on kayaking. So we’ve taken some very safe recreational kayaks and we have adapted them by putting pontoons on them to make them very stable. We have several volunteers who come down on Saturday afternoons and help get anyone who wants to try kayaking onto the water,” explained McMahan. “And so far
we’ve been very successful in accommodating people with a wide-variety of disabilities. We have amputees, paraplegics, and quadriplegics participate, as well as some development disability folks get on the water.” One of the goals is to not only have participants that excel in kayaking, but to also branch out and possibly migrate to other activities. “We already have some folks who have been down here, they take a tour of the facility, they get out on the water, they get excited and they want to consider what rowing would be like,” said McMahan. “So we have the ability to expose these disabled individuals to all of the sports we offer, be it rowing on a recreational basis, or even identifying potential athletes with elite-level potential.” While the OKC Riversport Community Adaptive program is still in its initial phase, McMahan has high hopes for what it can become. “I think the adaptive paddling-rowing program could be the largest and most beneficial program of its kind in the country,” said McMahan. “We’ve got the resources. We certainly have a tremendous amount of energy from staff and corporate supporters that would like to see that happen.” If you or a family member or friend is interested in participating or volunteering with the OKC RIVERSPORT Community Adaptive Paddling program, contact Jack McMahan at jmcmahan@okcbf.org or call (405) 552-4040. Thrive Oklahoma
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klahomans showed up in droves to support Down Syndrome Association of Central Oklahoma (DSACO) at this year’s Buddy Walk. This was the 18th annual Buddy Walk fundraiser for DSACO and more than 4,500 people attended this annual event held at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. This event was just one of over 250 Buddy Walks held across the country in order to raise awareness and funding for programs that benefit people with Down syndrome.
Buddy Walk 2012 Addison’s Army by Jessica Sanchez Rebecca and Mike Klehm’s daughter Addison, age 8 DSACO volunteers are essential to the success of Buddy Walk events all over the country (below)
The National Buddy Walk Program welcomes participants of all ages and abilities. The goals of the program are to promote acceptance and inclusion of people with Down syndrome and to positively influence local and national policy and practice. Last year alone, Buddy Walk events raised more than $11 million to benefit national advocacy initiatives, as well as local programs and services. All funds raised through the National Buddy Walk Program support both local and national programs. Rebecca and Mike Klehm started Addison’s Army in support of their daughter. They send out an annual Buddy Walk newsletter to over 300 friends, family and co-workers. Friend and co-worker Ramona Ritchie not only participates every year, but also recruits support from her family and church group. “These parents are amazing!” says Ritchie who also added “God gives special kids to special parents.” The Klehms have found the DSACO workshops to be a valuable source of information. They have attended numerous classes on topics such as diet, reading, math and schools. Says Rebecca,”The workshops empower us to do what is best for Addison.” When asked what she would want most to know about people with Downs she echoed the national campaign slogan “They are more alike than different!” So far, this year Buddy Walk raised approximately $80,000 which helps DSACO continue family programs such as 14
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distribution of new parent packets, maintaining the Lending Library, hosting their annual conference and workshops for the benefit of caregivers, parents, educators and medical professionals. These funds also help support governmental affairs focusing on local, state and national legislation and policy. There are also scholarships for families and self-advocates to attend National Down Syndrome Congress convention and Parent to Parent support groups provided in Spanish as well. These programs are vital to communities because they educate a wide range of individuals about the needs of children with Down syndrome. The Down Syndrome Association of Central Oklahoma, Inc. is a 501(c)3 non-profit and is located at 720 W. Wilshire, Ste. 112 Oklahoma City, OK 73116. The organization was founded in January 2000, by parents of children with Down syndrome. The purpose of the organization is aligned with its mission which is “Raise awareness, provide resources, as well as promote acceptance and inclusion for people with Down syndrome.” The Oklahoma City Buddy Walk was sponsored by: American Fidelity Foundation, BancFirst, CoBank, Danny’s Energy Services, Enogex, Etrack Corp, Gable Law, Integris Health, New Sources, Pinnack Business Systems, The Walmart Foundation, Hertz and Weokie Credit Union Foundation.
Deer Creek Team Wears Pink to Raise Awareness for Breast Cancer! by Stan Marker
In support of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the 9 year old Deer Creek Optimist little league football team, wore pink socks to every game in order to help raise awareness for breast cancer screening. Coach Brad Hedrick noted “Once we told the boys the reason behind this, they were actually excited to wear the pink.” The Antlers wore pink on the field with the same conviction as The National Football League, which has a pink on-field presence every October as well. This display serves as a national breast cancer screening-reminder and encourages women 40 and older to have an annual mammogram.
“Early detection is key to beating cancer. Nearly everyone knows someone who has been affected by it. My family knows firsthand how scary it can be to deal with as I am a survivor. I am a proud mom to be standing behind a team of tough boys who are willing to take teasing by wearing their bright pink socks to help raise awareness,” says Kari Bailey of Edmond, Oklahoma.
On-site digital mammography services available from The Oklahoma Breast Care Center for women that pre-schedule their screening at the Give Yourself the Gift of Health Expo by calling 1-800-422-4626.
The Deer Creek Antlers Football Team and Their Mothers – Photograph by Joel Gilliland.
We proudly serve victims of family violence, sexual assault, stalking and human trafficking regardless of race, gender, age, sexuality or economic status. Office 405-275-3176 State Hotline 800-522-SAFE
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Combatting Childhood Obesity by Casey Campbell, MS, RD, LD In an effort to help combat childhood obesity, OU Children’s Physicians has opened a new clinic focused specifically on childhood fitness and healthy eating habits. The Pediatrics Exercising and Eating Responsibly (PEER) Clinic offers behavioral interventions through a multi-disciplinary team approach to promote healthy lifestyles for the entire family. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, almost 17 percent of children and adolescents were classified as obese in 2010, triple the rate from the previous generation. Excessive weight increases the risk of a number of health conditions including hypertension, high cholesterol, and type 2 diabetes. Obese children and adolescents are being diagnosed with these “adult” chronic conditions at alarming rates. Additionally, studies indicate that obese children are at increased risk for becoming obese adults. The Bogalusa Heart Study, which followed children of all ages for 30 years, showed that even among the youngest (ages 2-5 years) children in the study who were obese, were 4 times more likely to be obese as an adult than a normal weight child of the same age. “If we do not intervene at the clinical level, we risk losing part of a generation to a host of health problems linked to obesity,” said Dr. Ashley Weedn, the clinic’s medical director and OU Children’s Physicians pediatrician. “Our goal is to provide a comprehensive assessment of the child’s medical, environmental and psychological risk factors for disease, and then offer individualized education and treatment to reduce risk of disease from obesity.” For more information about the PEER clinic, including referral criteria and how to make an appointment, families and physicians may contact: Casey Campbell, MS, RD, LD the Program Coordinator and Clinic Dietitian for Pediatrics Exercising and Eating Responsibly (PEER) Clinic. Located at 1200 Children’s Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73104 P: (405) 271-1637 Casey-Campbell@ouhsc.edu About OU Children’s Physicians: OU Children’s Physicians practice as part of OU Physicians, Oklahoma’s largest physician group. The group encompasses nearly every child and adult medical specialty. More than 175 of these specialists committed their practices to the care of children. The majority of OU Children’s Physicians are board certified in children’s specialties. Many provide pediatric-specific services unavailable elsewhere in the state. Some have pioneered surgical procedures or innovations in patient care that are world firsts. OU Children’s Physicians see patients in their offices at the OU Health Sciences Center and other cities around Oklahoma. When hospitalization is necessary, they often admit patients to The Children’s Hospital at OU Medical Center. Many children with birth defects, critical injuries or serious diseases who can’t be helped elsewhere come to OU Children’s Physicians. Oklahoma doctors and parents rely on OU Children’s Physicians depth of experience, nationally renowned expertise and sensitivity to children’s emotional needs.
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In the new clinic, a health team will work with patients and families to identify any underlying medical causes and lifestyle risk factors of weight gain, as well as risk factors for chronic disease. The team will include a pediatrician, a registered dietitian, a physical therapist and a pediatric psychologist with access to pediatric subspecialists. “The clinic will be a great resource for Oklahoma families,” said Dr. Stephen Gillaspy, an OU Children’s Physicians psychologist. “We offer patients and families a comprehensive program that identifies their challenges and provides a personalized plan to reach their healthy lifestyle goals.” To make an appointment at the clinic, families must be referred by their primary care physicians. The referral criteria, which are based on the American Academy of Pediatrics’ recommendations, include: Children must be between the ages of 2 and 18 and have a Body Mass Index (BMI) greater than the 99th percentile, or greater than the 95th percentile with a condition associated with excess weight. Parents/guardians must be willing to commit to the PEER program; and the patient, in consultation with a primary care physician, must have made previous attempts, spanning no less than three months, to control or decrease weight.
“We want to establish a strong working relationship with primary care physicians across the state so we can provide help to the kids who need it most. A team effort is needed involving the child, his or her family, their primary care physician and the clinic,” said Weedn.
Kyli Fitzgerald, MHA, Senior Clinic Manager; Ashley Weedn, MD, MPH, Medical Director; Stephen Gillaspy, PhD, Pediatric Psychologist; Peggy Brakefield, PT, Physical Therapist; Casey Campbell, MS, RD, LD, Clinical Dietitian and Program Coordinator and Patrick Hutton, PhD, Community Health Services Manager (not pictured)
Atrium at OU Children’s
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Superstore Giant Gives by Paul Fairchild and Angela C. Slovak, Ph.D.
The doors of Wal-Mart swing wide open for more than 140 million shoppers every week. That’s 150 times the population of Tulsa and Oklahoma City combined. The retail giant is the undisputed leader in grocery sales in the U.S. and food accounts for more than half of the chain’s annual sales. Wal-Mart announced in 2011 that they were working on a comprehensive program that will reduce sodium, added sugars and trans-fats from packaged foods. Through 2015, Wal-Mart will be working with suppliers to reformulate thousands of packaged food items in order to: • Reduce sodium by 25% • Reduce added sugars by 10% • Remove all remaining industrially produced trans-fats and partially hydrogenated oils The Wal-Mart Great Value brand has been at the forefront of these healthy changes by reducing these additives and making the packaging reflect these healthy changes. The well known Great Value brand items now display the Great for You logo indicating that they are a healthier Wal-Mart choice.
First lady Michelle Obama, who was with Wal-Mart when it unveiled these plans in January 2011, said that the new seal gives parents information they need to make healthy choices, which is “a key piece of solving childhood obesity.” “We applaud First Lady Michelle Obama’s leadership and commitment to this important cause. Few individuals have done more 18
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5% Cash Back On Healthy Store Brands to raise awareness of the importance of healthier habits — especially among children — than she has,” said Wal-Mart’s Executive Vice President of Corporate Affairs, Leslie Dach, at the unveiling of this new plan. There are 310 million people in the United States. One quarter, or roughly 78 million are children. Today, one in every three of them are clinically obese, that’s 23 million U.S. children. Obese children are at risk for diabetes, and about one in three, or 10 million children will actually develop the disease. High blood pressure, cancer, asthma and heart disease are other risk factors they may face. But just having a superstore, instead of a convenience store in a neighborhood that may be considered a food desert won’t solve the problem. Nutritionally sound foods need to be on the shelves and they need to be affordable and easily identified as a healthy selection. “What you really have to look at is what’s happening in our country and it really comes down to one basic truth and the fact is that healthier eating — and I think it’s a goal we all share — is really, really hard to do given the lifestyles that we live today,” said Bill Simon, Wal-Mart’s CEO. Simon wants, literally, to change our food to match our busy, on-the-go lifestyles. But changing “our food” doesn’t just mean making Wal-Mart’s food healthier. It means making every supplier’s food healthier. Wal-Mart will be working with other food suppliers to improve the nutritional content of food sold under larger, national brands. Critics of the superstore chain have long bemoaned its coercive tactics, using its volume buying to squeeze producer profit margins or change the way suppliers do business. Make no mistake about it. Wal-Mart’s kicking off another round of coercion, but this time it’s for a good cause. It’s easy to justify helping children eat better.
The Wal-Mart Great For You logo makes it easy for shoppers to identify the healthier items without having to read dozens of nutrition labels each time they pick up a food item.
Look for the Great For You logo on Great Value Brands at your neighborood Wal-Mart Store for simple and healthy shopping choices.
Health care giant Humana, Inc. is partnering with Wal-Mart to bring its Humana Vitality participants cash incentives on fresh fruits, vegetables, fiber-rich whole grains, low-fat dairy and lean meats that display the Great For You logo. This new program launched in October of this year, and will allow more than one million Vitality members (all under age 65) to be eligible for the program. There are more than 1,300 Wal-Mart foods marked as Great for You and qualify for a 5 percent savings. “This Nutrition Charter promises a real change that can have a fundamental impact in how our kids eat, you see, because when parents have the information they need about the products they buy, that puts them back in charge, so they can make good decisions for their families,” said the First Lady. No longer will shoppers have to pick up the box (or bottle), flip it around and wade through a small sea of information about the contents of the food they’re holding. Wal-Mart has created an at a glance system to help shoppers make good nutritional decisions.
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by Meredith Blalock, N.D. The flu is said to be the ninth leading cause of death in the United States, but it is important to note that the flu is grouped with all cases of fatal pneumonia, respiratory, and circulatory causes of death to create this statistic. This type of data can be misleading, and it’s difficult to decipher how many deaths were truly associated with the flu in any given year. The flu is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. Symptoms associated with the flu tend to come on quickly and may include body aches, fever, chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headaches, fatigue, and occasionally vomiting and diarrhea 1. For most people, these symptoms resolve without further complication in less than two weeks. In vulnerable people, such as small children, people over the age of 65, or people with preexisting cardiovascular or respiratory disease, complications like pneumonia can arise and cause serious illness and even death1. It’s because of this risk and related complications that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend every person over six months of age be vaccinated annually against the flu. Every generation, an entirely new strain of influenza viruses emerge because of mutation each year 2. This is one reason why a flu vaccine doesn’t necessarily protect people from getting the flu. The yearly flu vaccine contains three different strains of the virus, which is predicted by scientists to match the strains that will cause illness that year. Vaccine efficacy depends on how closely these strains match the environmental flu strains and also the age and overall health of the person being vaccinated. Influenza vaccine is most effective in healthy young adults and older children1. Unfortunately, it is not effective in preventing illness in the populations most likely to suffer severe complications5. In fact, children under two years of age the flu vaccine has been found to be no more effective than placebo5 and in adults over the age of 65 the vaccine is only 30-40% effective 4.
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Natural immunity trains the immune system to better adapt to evolving strains of flu viruses. So, allowing people who are at least risk of severe complications to naturally acquire immunity to the flu, by actually getting the flu occasionally, will ultimately protect them when they reach an age where they’re vulnerable to complications and the vaccine is ineffective. Whether or not you decide to get the influenza vaccine, there are many natural ways to help support your immune system and overall health through this flu season. Eating a diet consisting of a variety of vegetables and fruits, whole grains, nuts and seeds, and lean protein, while limiting processed foods will give your body the building blocks that it needs to function at its best. * Drink lots of filtered water everyday * Exercise regularly throughout the cooler months * Eliminate toxins regularly * Breathe fresh air * Get plenty of sleep on a regular basis * Love and play are also key components to creating a good foundation for your health. Without these things, no amount of medicine can keep your body in tip-top shape. In addition to these basics there are some useful preventative actions and natural remedies when it comes to facing the flu season. Naturopathic prevention and treatment of the flu virus includes vitamins and minerals, botanical medicine and lifestyle recommendations.
Hygiene. Wash your hands with soap and warm water often, especially after touching public surfaces or being around somebody who is sick. When you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with the bend in your arm to prevent spreading germs when touching things with your hands. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, as this is how the virus enters the body. Stay home if you are sick. Rest helps your immune system fight the infection and prevents you from passing the virus on to others. Vitamin D plays an important role in the body’s immune system, specifically in innate immunity, which is responsible for protecting the body against germs that it is not yet immune to. During the winter months levels of vitamin D in the body decrease due to less exposure to the sun. Supplementing with even low doses of vitamin D has been shown to significantly decrease rates of influenza infections 3.
Echinacea is a very popular herb that has antiviral properties that specifically target the flu. In a study on Echinacea purpurea, it was found to inhibit the ability of the influenza virus to enter into cells, destroying its ability to create infection 4. Sources: 1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases (NCIRD) October 13, 2011 http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/qa/ vaccineeffect.htm 2. Kamps, B.S., Hoffmann, C. and Preiser, W. 2006. Influenza Report. Paris, Hamburg, Tygerberg. Flying Publisher. http://www.influenzareport.com/ir/vaccines.htm 3. Cannell, John J, et al 2008. On the Epidemiology of Influenza. Virol J. 5:29. 4. Hudson, James B. 2012. Application of the Phytomedicine Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) in Infectious Diseases. J Biomed Biotechnol. 2012:769896. 5. Jefferson, T, et. al. 2008. Vaccines for Preventing Influenza In Healthy Children. Cochrane Database Syst Rev (2):CD004879.
There are many other ways to support your immune system naturally. For more information on this and naturopathic medicine visit http://www.naturopathic.org
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Crescent lunge
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Power leg
with Andrea Mason
Dancers pose with Andrea Mason and Betina Wills Crescent lunge: The knee is bent and stacked directly on top of the ankle. Opposite leg reaches back and presses through the heel, lengthening through the hamstring and also through the hip flexor. Hips are level and square. Belly draws in while sending the tailbone down to the floor. Shoulders stack over hips and arms reach up to the ceiling while sliding the shoulders down the back and away from the ears. Find length through the crown of the head, while keeping the head up. This posture targets the front and back body. Dancers pose: First stand tall and on one leg grab the inside of your foot, while keeping the standing leg still with a soft bend in the knee. Hinge forward from the waist and kick your foot into your hand until your toes start to lift over your head. Keep the hips level and facing forward while engaging your core and keeping your head up. Opposite arm extends out in front finding length. Dancers pose targets the quadriceps and hip flexors. Power leg: Stand tall with feet hip distance apart. Roll on to the balls of the feet and bend the knees until you feel your quadriceps engage. Ankles, hips, shoulders and ears are all in alignment. Shoulders are drawn down the back while creating length in the spine and neck. Tailbone draws down toward the heels and core is engaged while pulling the rib cage and belly in. Power leg targets the quadriceps. Thrive Oklahoma 23
Ways To Stay Active Even When the Temperature There is no more exhilarating time to adventure out to the Myriad Botanical Gardens than when the temperatures start to drop. Since the $36 million face lift to the Crystal Bridge and surrounding outdoor spaces, now is a good time to enjoy the interactive design features and late fall activities.
There are still wonderful colors to see during the cooler months, crisp sensations and the invigorating bustling city sounds. It’s always warm and tropical within the Crystal Bridge. Be inspired by nature indoors and out. The Children’s southwest garden is a six acre free-form adventure plus structured educational stations, like a hedge maze, story tree with climbing and sliding features near by. The Meinders Garden and meadow in the northeast quadrant displays natural topography with native grasses and leaves that are deciduous and ever green, which provide year round textures and color. Garden water is channeled through the Ozark river waterfalls and rolls into the East Lake below. Centrally located in the heart of downtown, there’s something for everyone to take part in this season.
Myriad Gardens Classes & Fun Downtown Events
NOVEMBER
Wreath-making Workshop at 2nd Floor Conference Room November 8 from 1:00pm -2:00 pm Join the gardens staff as you take part in the assembly of your own 16” holiday wreath with fresh greens and add a personal touch as you decorate with berries, ribbon and more. Bring your own pruners to class. Members: $25 Non-Members: $35 24 Thrive Thrive Oklahoma 24 Oklahoma
Camp On the Catwalk at the Crystal Bridge & Water Plaza Room
November 2 & 3 from 7:00 pm to 8:00 am Accompany your kids during a warm and cozy sleep over on the catwalk at the Crystal Bridge. Fall asleep to the sounds of rushing water over the indoor waterfalls. Go on a lizard hunt and learn about Cacao, then make your own chocolate! Families will also be able to take home their own plant fossil. A pizza dinner, snacks and breakfast will be served. One adult may accompany up to three kids.Members: $20 per child, free for adults.Non-Members: $25 per child and $15 per adult
All About Pies at the Crystal Bridge November 3 from 1:00 pm-3:00 pm Families can try their hand at harvest pie-making. This class allows folks to pick and choose which fruit will be included in your take-it-home to bake full-sized pie. Members: $10 Non-Members: $15
by Gentry McEown
Drops
DECEMBER North Pole Winter Wonderland Holiday Exhibit at the Myriad Botanical Gardens November 25-January 1 The outside grounds will be decorated with lights sponsored by OG&E. The visitor center lobby will be festooned with masses of poinsettias and bedecked with holiday charm. Children will have the opportunity to mail their letters to Santa in the official North Pole mailbox. The Wonderland Express will be on display outside the entry way. This train is a G scale model presented by Dental Depot. Guests will enjoy free hot cocoa and entertainment. Free admission on Sundays from 6 pm to 9 pm
Gingerbread Dreams in the Terrace Room December 1 from 10:00 am to 11:30 am ‘Tis the season to make, decorate and eat a gingerbread house! Visit the Myriad Gardens, locate the spice trees in the Crystal Bridge that are used in making gingerbread, then make your own gingerbread house. Decorate it with a variety of candies and frostings. Members: $10 per child Non-Members: $15 per child
The Winter Market At Myriad Gardens at the Great Lawn December 7-9 from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Do your holiday shopping in an outdoor winter market featuring dozens of local artisan vendors. Stay warm with hot cider, hot chocolate, coffee, local wines, roasted nuts and a wide variety of live musical performances.
Canterbury Choir Concert at the Crystal Bridge
Devon Ice Rink Official Opening
November 23 weekdays - 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm open weekends at noon. The Devon Ice Rink is officially open for the season. Rental skates available for $3. Admission is $7 per person. For group and private party rates call 405.297.3423
December 14 at 7:00 pm This holiday season, the delightful Canterbury To Go choir will perform holiday favorites in the Conservatory. A reception with refreshments follows. Call 405.297.3611 to reserve tickets for this event. Members: $10 Non-Members: $15 Just a few of the fun classes and events this winter at the Myriad Gardens for details go to:
www.myriadgardens.org
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FREE
The Oklahoman’s Water Taxi Rides
Opening Night 2013 Downtown OKC December 31 from 7 pm to Midnight Oklahoma City’s New Year’s Eve Celebration with music from local stars, dancing, theatre and fireworks hosted by the Arts Council of Oklahoma City. An admission wristband allows you access to all venues, all night long. All performances take place in a safe, family-friendly environment. For more information call 405.270.4848
Cruise down the Bricktown Canal every Thursday through Sunday night from 6:009:30pm, weather permitting, from November 23rd to December 30th. Free and open to the public.
Chesapeake Energy Snow Tubing
November 24 - January 5 Have a bundle of fun snow tubing at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. Register online or purchase tickets at the door, for 1.5 hours of snow tubing . Session times are 12pm, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm and 8pm Every Saturday & Sunday. Go snow tubing daily, December 20th through January 5 th. Closes at 6pm on Christmas Eve and closed all Christmas Day.
Opening Night 2013 Downtown OKC December 31 from 7 pm to Midnight Oklahoma City’s New Year’s Eve Celebration with music from local stars, dancing, theatre and fireworks hosted by the Arts Council of Oklahoma City. For more information 405.270.4848
SandRidge Santa Run
December 8 in Leadership Square in Downtown OKC. This event features a 5K, 1 Mile Fun Run, and Kids Dash Saturday at 9 am the starting line is at Leadership Square in Downtown OKC. Proceeds benefit The Mentoring project. This fun run will also feature a costume contest. Participants are invited to dress up in their best holiday-themed costume for a chance to receive cash prizes. 26
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The holiday lights along Auto Alley on Broadway.
The fountains at the Lower Bricktown Plaza in front of Harkins Theatres.
A bird’s eye view of the Myriad Gardens and Crystal Bridge. Thrive Oklahoma
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by Erika Huffman and Angela C. Slovak, Ph.D. In the Mood for Vast Food? For a globally inspired fine dining experience visit Vast, the new restaurant atop Devon Tower overlooking downtown and beyond. The global inspiration for all the Vast menu selections comes from Executive Chef Patrick Williams and the Vice President of Culinary Operations, Andrew Black. These men work closely on every detail of the menu selections so that a wide variety of tastes are accommodated when dining at Vast.
A view of Devon Tower from the rotunda lobby looking upwards to the 50-story skyscraper. Located downtown next to the historic Colcord Hotel and directly across from Oklahoma City’s famous Myriad Botanical Gardens. Building design by Pickard Chilton Architects, Inc. This iconic tower is home to one of the nation’s largest independent oil and gas exploration and production companies.
The events and banquet room on the 50th floor above the Vast restaurant and lounge. Enjoy globally inspired cuisine for receptions or corporate get togethers that offer a one of a kind experience. 28
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Vice President of Culinary Operations for Williams and Associates Hospitality, Chef Andrew Black(L) discusses menu details with Vast Executive Chef Patrick Williams (R) for the globally inspired cuisine offered from the 50th floor atop the Devon Tower. But don’t expect any surf and turf here. Chef Black describes the Vast experience to be one of surprising culinary combinations that keep your taste buds wanting more. “ It’s like you’re in a theater watching something you’re so drawn to and you’re wondering what’s coming next. That’s the basis for Vast,” said Chef Black. By offering a global cuisine, Vast supports the global market. That means that visitors and diners will have a very unique experience. John Williams CHA-president at Williams and Associates Hospitality, LLC describes Vast as a world class dining experience. “For most folks there’s a desire to go to the top of the Devon Tower at least once. Vast targets a broad spectrum of pallets with a broad market perspective,” said Williams. “The service and experience must be extraordinary,” said Williams. “Because of its location and its spectacular view of Oklahoma City, Vast is a unique restaurant. Ultimately, we want our product to be even greater than the scenery. That is what will keep our customers coming back.” Vast’s Executive Chef Patrick Williams and Chef Black agree, a sophisticated twist on world-known foods are a constant, but seasonal selections will provide customers with something new every time they visit Vast. Diners will enjoy fully composed plates when ordering, which means side dishes are included. The menu will change with the seasons and by sourcing the very best ingredients, Vast will bring-it when it comes to world class cuisine and service.
Obviously, a Vast menu requires, “Extreme planning and there’s always room for improvement and we are always asking ourselves is it good enough and what may be missing,” said Chef Black. With a fall unveiling, Vast features selections like, pan seared quail with blueberry sauce served with sweet potatoes and marshmallows on top. This is just one example of the mix between traditional tastes and the unexpected. For red meat lovers, you may want to try the Aonori herb crusted strip loin for a sophisticated twist on traditional restaurant fare. If seafood is more to your liking, menu items like shark, swordfish or scallops stuffed with lobster will send your taste buds into the heavens above. Vast will offer a full lunch and dinner menu but visitors may want to try the lunch buffet one afternoon in between appointments. Visitors that have more time to linger while on top of the town from the 50th floor, will definitely want to enjoy the observation lounge for a breath taking view of the city to the south and watch the final core to shore progress. For more information call Mario Rivera, General Manager at Vast 405.208.4310 and reservations are highly recommended, but not required.
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It begins a bit earlier every year, the first sights and sounds of the holiday season, and just hearing three notes of a Christmas carol can send our body from Santa Land to Tension Land. How to face this joyous season with ease? If stores start early, then we start earlier. Not with shopping, but with conscious practice of relaxation, simplicity, and lots of gratitude throughout this season.
Relaxation Relax during the holiday season - are you kidding? The key is to focus on managing your energy versus your time. Five minutes of conscious breathing from your lower abdomen before tackling challenging tasks will recharge you much more than one hour of mindless T.V. after these tasks. Listen to your words throughout the day, both inside your head and what you are saying to others. Words are powerful, and we create what is possible and not possible in our lives every day through what we think and say. “In the beginning was the Word,” John 1:1. If you are snapping at your co-worker, spouse, child, or even a stranger, take a moment to think Peace on Earth starts with Peace in Me. Think, “I am at Peace in this moment.” Observe the commitments you are making. Overwhelm starts with over committing, and saying, “Yes” too many times to things we wish we had declined. Give yourself permission to politely pass on some invitations, reduce travel, and say no to some old traditions that you no longer enjoy. Tune In to your body and pay attention to early signs of stress. A tightening in the neck, shoulders, stomach, a stiff back, pumping heart, breaking into a sweat when you’re sitting still are all signs that you need to rest and regroup. Put the phones on silence, turn off your computer, turn down the lights, and light a candle in silence or with soft gentle music. It will be a miracle to your disposition, and it only takes a short time to shift your mood and attitude.
Simplicity Monitor your Stress Meter versus your Joy Meter and take action – or inaction – accordingly. Do you really need to make ten kinds of cookies? If baking ten types of cookies brings your stress meter to full tilt and wipes out the joy you want,
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by Robin Fernandez, NCC then adjust your actions, and only bake three kinds of cookies this year. Give yourself permission to take a year off from writing holiday cards, or use an online system where you create cards and send gifts with a push of a button and the company takes care of the rest. Do you really need all the fancy, elaborate holiday decorations? Or are you just doing it to keep up with the Jones’. Ask yourself, which holiday decorations truly brings you joy to behold them, and which could you do without this year? When it comes to presents, volume does not equal meaningful. How much time, money, and effort have we spent on presents that nobody really wants, needs, or ever uses? In order to simplify, try writing a list of small items that you really want and hand it out to anyone with whom you exchange gifts. Encourage them to do the same. You may still be pleasantly surprised.
Gratitude Take a moment to say “thank you” to those who help or serve you. Think of how many people touch your world and make it a little better, nicer or easier. Think of all the hands that bring the items in your home to you. The food growers and suppliers, the appliances, the building, furniture, clothes, jewelry, shoes or art work on the walls. Thousands of people are intertwined in creating your space. Try to give thanks to bank tellers, wait staff, cleaners in your office building, toll booth collectors, washroom attendants, and your own family.
Do you express appreciation daily for yourself and all the hard work your body does to keep you going? Try sitting quietly with a straight back, with bare feet on the floor and closed eyes. Breathe low in your belly. Starting at the top of your head, scan through in your mind’s eye all the body parts, organs, body systems from head to toe, saying thank you. Give an internal smile to each organ and system. Thank your body for all the hard work it does and tell yourself that you will listen to the early signs of distress in order to prevent a cold, flu, or injury this season and slow down for a few minutes each day. From the book Stressed is Desserts Spelled Backward, by Brian Luke Seaward: “let go of stress and move on gracefully, rather than play the recurring role of victim. More times than not, we can have our cake and eat it too. And each time, the taste of dessert, after a long hard haul on the road of life, is a sweet one, indeed.”
75,000 sq. ft. Facility • Personal Trainers Group Exercise Classes • Pool • Weight Room 2 Basketball courts
752-1233
located at 14701 N. Kelly Edmond,OK
Randy
www.randymontgomery.net Entertaining Story Teller with Song
100s of original songs on yutube - featured on Channel 4 news
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Heart Healthy Recipes from the American Heart Association
Serves 4 - 1 roll per serving Ingredients 4 dried whole-wheat lasagna noodles 10 ounces frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry 1 cup fat-free cottage cheese 1 tablespoon dried basil, crumbled 1/8 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes 1 cup fat-free, low-sodium spaghetti sauce ½ cup shredded low-fat mozzarella cheese 2 tablespoons shredded or grated Parmesan cheese
Nutritional Analysis Per serving:
Cooking Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly spray an 11 x 7 x 2-inch glass baking dish with cooking spray. Prepare noodles using package directions, omitting salt and oil. Drain well. Blot excess water with paper towels so spinach mixture will adhere to noodles and be easier to handle. Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, stir together spinach, cottage cheese, basil, salt and red pepper flakes.
Calories 212 Total Fat 3.5 g Saturated Fat 1 g Trans Fat 0 g Polyunsaturated Fat 1 g Monounsaturated Fat .5 g Cholesterol 9 mg
Sodium 536 mg Carbohydrate 28 mg Fiber 7 g Sugar 6 g Protein 18 g Dietary Exchanges: 1½ starch, 1 vegetable, 1½ lean meat
To assemble, place noodles on a flat surface, such as a cutting board. Spread spinach mixture over each noodle. Starting at one short end, roll up each noodle. Place with seam side down in baking dish, leaving about ½ inch between rolls. Spoon spaghetti sauce over all. Sprinkle with mozzarella. Bake for 25 minutes, or until thoroughly heated. Remove from oven and sprinkle with Parmesan.
Ingredients Serves 8 Cooking Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375º F. Lightly spray a 9-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and set aside. Fill a large bowl halfway with cold water and the juice of one lemon. Cut the stems of the pears and peel them, placing each one in the water as you do so. Then, half and core the pears and cut them into inch thick lengthwise slices or chunks, returning each sliced pear to the lemon water until the job is completed. Drain the cut pears in a colander and return them to the mixing bowl. Add the cherries, lemon zest, pear or apple juice, honey, flavorings, spices and one tablespoon of flour to the fruit and stir to mix everything well. Let sit for 15 minutes; then place it in the prepared baking dish.
Make the topping
Place the granola, flour, brown sugar, almonds and spices in a large mixing bowl and toss them together lightly. Add the margarine spread and use your hands to work the spread into the dry ingredients until blended but crumbly. Spread the topping over the pears. Place the dish on the foillined baking sheet and bake the crumble for 30-35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the juices are bubbling and translucent. Serve warm.
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Juice of one lemon 5-6 fresh pears, the riper the better 1 cup dried cherries Zest of one lemon ½ cup pear juice (may substitute apple juice) 2 tablespoons honey 1 teaspoon almond extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 tablespoon flour
Ingredients for the topping 1 cup vanilla granola 3 tablespoons flour ½ cup brown sugar ¼ cup sliced almonds ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon ¼ teaspoon ground allspice ¼ cup trans fat-fee margarine spread
Health Tip: This is a good way to “sneak” heart-healthy whole grains and nuts into the diet in an irresistible dessert. Nutritional Analysis Per serving: Calories Per Serving 289 Total Fat 4 g Saturated Fat 0 g Trans Fat 0 g Polyunsaturated Fat 1 g Monounsaturated Fat 2 g Cholesterol 0 mg
Sodium 69 mg Carbohydrate 62 mg Fiber 6 g Sugar 41 g Protein 3 g Dietary Exchanges: 2 fruit, 2 other carbohydrate, 1 fat
Serves 4; 3 ounces cooked steak and 2 tablespoons sauce per serving
Ingredients 4 boneless eye-of-round steaks (4 ounces each), all visible fat discarded 1 teaspoon salt-free garlic and herb seasoning blend Vegetable oil spray 1 cup fat-free, no-salt-added beef broth 1/4 cup whole almonds 1 tablespoon sliced almonds 1/4 cup whole-berry cranberry sauce or 1/3 cup fat-free sour cream 1 tablespoon prepared white horseradish 1/2 teaspoon salt-free garlic and herb seasoning blend
Cooking Instructions
Nutritional Analysis Per serving:
with with sour cream cranberry sauce sauce
Calories Per Serving Total Fat Saturated Fat Trans Fat Polyunsaturated Fat Monounsaturated Fat Cholesterol Sodium Carbohydrate Fiber Sugar Protein
223 9g 1.5 g 0g 1.5 g 5g 50 mg 78 mg 6 g 1g 2g 29 g
228 9g 1.5 g 0g 1.5 g 5g 47 mg 65 mg 9g 5g 2g 29 g
Dietary Exchanges: ½ carbohydrate, 3½ lean
Season both sides of the steaks evenly with 1 teaspoon garlic and herb seasoning blend. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the steaks for 2 minutes on each side, or until browned. Add the broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat and simmer, covered for 30 to 40 minutes, or until tender. If needed, add water 1/4 cup at a time to keep the steaks from sticking. If desired, reserve 1/2 to 2 ⁄3 cup cooking liquid to spoon over the steaks before serving. Meanwhile, in a medium skillet, dry-roast the whole almonds over medium heat for 6 to 8 minutes, or until golden brown, stirring occasionally. Transfer to the work bowl of a food processor and let cool for 5 minutes. In the same skillet, dry-roast the sliced almonds for 3 to 4 minutes, or until golden brown, stirring occasionally. Transfer to a small plate and set aside. Process the whole almonds for 1 to 2 minutes, or until finely ground. Transfer to a medium bowl. Stir in the cranberry sauce or sour cream, horseradish, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic and herb seasoning blend until well combined. To serve, spoon the reserved pan liquid over each steak. Top each with about two tablespoons sauce. Garnish with the almond slices.
Cook’s Tip
Perfect for holiday meals, these eye-of-round steaks are seasoned with a salt-free blend of garlic and herbs, braised until tender, and topped with an easy-mix sauce. Garnish with the almond slices.
Inspired by Martha Stewart’s Whole Living Recipes Makes 8 cups Serves 6
Ingredients
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1 white onion, chopped 2 garlic cloves, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated 1/2 teaspoons turmeric 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
Directions
1/8 teaspoon cardamom Dash ground cloves 2 carrots, peeled and chopped 1 Pippin apple, peeled, quartered, and chopped 4 cups chopped butternut squash Coarse salt and pepper
Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and cook until tender, 6 to 8 minutes. Add ginger, turmeric, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add carrots, apple, squash, and 3 cups water. Bring to a boil; cover partially and reduce to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 20 minutes. Let cool slightly. Working in batches, puree until smooth in a blender. Adjust seasoning, if necessary.
Health Tip:
Soup is a smart liquid-meal option that’s also less taxing on your digestive system and allows the body to detoxify. Fibrous squash makes this velvety, slightly sweet option satiating. Plus, research shows antioxidant-dense turmeric may boost the liver’s ability to remove chemicals.
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by Wallace Nelson, N.D. A diagnosis of diabetes is a frightening moment. Questions regarding the impact it will have on your life begin to swirl around your mind. Many have visions of blood tests, insu-
lin injections, and bottles of medications. Questions about how this will change the activities they enjoy, how it will impact family, and what it means for their future. Things may seem bleak. continued on page 40
Healthy Lifestyle Steps (whether you have diabetes or not) • Reduce starchy foods with a high glycemic index. Such as bread, potatoes, processed cereals, rice, etc. • Consume a high fiber, whole foods diet. Eliminate processed junk foods from your eating regimen. • Start an exercise program. Weight reduction can help those with type 2 diabetes. In addition to decreasing body fat, regular exercise can also improve insulin sensitivity. • Supplement with dietary fiber, such as psyllium, to improve glucose tolerance. • Supplement with vitamins and minerals such as vitamins B, C, and E, magnesium and zinc. Individuals with diabetes tend to have low levels of these important nutrients in their blood. • Alpha Lipoic Acid has also been show to improve insulin sensitivity, and is a potent antioxidant. • Supplementation with vitamin D can increase insulin levels in some people. Always use a vitamin D3 source. • Herbal supplements that support detoxification can help strengthen the liver and pancreas improving our body’s ability to utilize insulin. • Stevia and other naturally sweet plant products make excellent sugar substitutes without the drawbacks of sugar, or potential dangers of chemical sweeteners like Aspartame or Sucralose.
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by Timothy L. Trujillo There is a familiar weed growing along the local walking paths. It has delicate white flowers sprouting out in every direction. Below the flowers, little seed pods stand sentinel in a similar array. This is Shepherd’s Purse, the noble European herb that has planted itself throughout the world. More than just a passing blossom, it is a medicine that can be used to treat internal bleeding, inflammation, hypertension, ulcer, and even cancer. It is a veritable medicine cabinet sprouting and saluting from the roadside. While the term “herb” applies to a tender plant, herbal medicines include root, stem, leaf, flower, bark, and seeds of a myriad of plants and trees. Many common plants are, indeed, medicines. Our culinary herbs of oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, and others are powerful immune stimulants, anti-microbials, and anti-septics. The ubiquitous and pesky dandelion is a very good medicine that supports liver function, and the greens make a delicious addition to a salad. It is not advisable, however, to consume weeds from lawns or roadways, unless it can be determined that they are free from herbicides, pesticides, and other toxins. Fortunately, this ‘wild crafting” is not necessary to benefit from herbal medicines. Herbs are prepared and sold in many different forms, from dried bulk and bagged, to capsules and tablets, to concentrated tincture solutions, to multi-component formulas touted to cure every ill. Herbal remedies need not be purchased at pharmacies or health food centers. They are commonly available at supermarkets and even at fillingstation marts as stimulants and aphrodisiacs. However, for safety and benefit, it is best to use herbs grown organically and processed without “adulteration.” Perhaps the most common and longstanding method of taking herbal medicines is as a tea. Chamomile tea is a familiar relaxant, peppermint tea is a mild stimulant and digestive aid, and licorice tea is excellent for soothing a sore throat. Fresh or dried materials are either boiled in the case of dense and woody textures, or steeped in the case of tender leaves and flowers. The extraction of vital elements into solution allows them to be absorbed and utilized by our bodies in a rapid, direct, and wholesome way. Taking medicine as tea also engages many of our healing mechanisms.
kettle come to a boil, we build anticipation and send signals to every cell in our body, preparing for the changes to come. While “cooking” the tea, we release aromatics that lift our mood and stimulate pleasure centers in the brain. With patience we dip the teabag or stir the loose herbs, saturating our senses and increasing our anticipation, until, at last, we may enjoy the precious brew. Taking tea is not something to be done on the go. The hot beverage demands respect; it forces us to slow down, to take it easy, to act with intention. Sitting, we let the busy day drift by as our timeless attendance to cooling solemnizes our thoughts of wellness. We cradle the cup between our palms, warming and activating acu-points on the hand that invigorate our entire system and strengthen our heart and mind. We bring the steaming vessel to our lips and blowing our silent prayer across the surface, send our desires upward with the rising vapors. We sip the concoction and feel its flavor and warmth refresh our palate and warm us to our core. We may find that holding the warm cup to our chest or lower abdomen also soothes and invigorates our entire being. All the while, we are still. Our thoughts may drift or remain fixed on our healing mission, and the swirling world is set free from our concerns and us from its demands. During such a time, our own essence is distilled, our purpose clarified. When completed, we may savor the last lingering remnants of flavor in our mouth or on our lips. We may gaze down into the emptied cup to spy some remaining material and, considering its array, contemplate our own future of robust health.
Taking tea is not just a process but an act, the sole purpose of which is our enhanced well being. While selecting and blending herbs, we contemplate the actions we desire. While watching the Thrive Oklahoma
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It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, and the song lyrics ring true. “Mom and Dad can’t wait for school to start again….” If you’re the parent of an Oklahoma City Public School student, you’ve got three weeks of quality time with your little one, or two and a half weeks of quality child care to find. Whether you’ve got tons of time or are trying to make the most out of the time you have, here are some fun ideas to keep little hands helpful.
Anything goes mom
The main ingredient for this activity is a roll of inexpensive butcher paper. Check out Sam’s Wholesale for basic white paper. One roll is enough for multiple families. Got friends? Make a play date, and have each household pitch in a couple dollars. Teacher supply stores, like Lake Shore Learning or Mardel’s, sell large rolls of colored bulletin board paper. Everyone on your Christmas list will love receiving their gift clad in custom gift wrap and you’ll love all the money you’ll save on wrapping paper. Save any clean left over paper for use for future gift giving occasions, or decorate a Thanksgiving table runner and placemats in November.
Mom who likes a theme
Use the following guidelines to design the wrap that’s right for you. Wrapping paper for the…
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This is the easiest style! Use white paper + a pack of markers or crayons. Let your little artistic genius have free reign and see what happens! Remember to protect table tops and other surfaces with an extra layer of paper or a cheap plastic table cloth.
Mom who’s in the mood to make a memory
Use non-toxic washable finger paint to create Christmas colored handprints for paper so cute grandma won’t be able to throw it away. If you want to combine equal parts creativity with predictability (you are going to have to look at these gifts under the tree for a little while at least), choose the parameters you want your artists colony to work in. Only set out the colors that match your Christmas decorations. Provide stencils (plastic Christmas themed cookie cutters are cheap and fun for this) to make patterns or repetitive motifs. Draw or color frames onto white paper and have your kiddo create an original work of art inside the frame. Portraits of family members by their favorite nieces, nephews, and grandchildren are head and shoulders above typical bows and nametags.
by Megan Brown-Ellis, M.Ed.
Make your own ornaments!
Save a trip to the store and some money by making ornaments out of what’s lying around the house. A hot glue gun will make assembly quick and easy, but you’ll need to be in charge of it. If you want your design assistant to work solo, stick with good oldfashioned school glue.
Dog Biscuits
Turn the biscuit so it points up and down instead of side to side. Glue on some wiggly eyes and a red piece of candy (like a red hot or an M&M) for a nose. You can also draw these on with markers. Use pipe cleaners or twist ties to make antlers, and attach antlers and a loop of ribbon to the back of the biscuit. Voile! An instant Reindeer Ornament!
Squeeze out small amounts of school glue onto the picture. Cover the glue in glitter. Wait five minutes. Tap the lid to shake off excess glitter. Attach a loop of ribbon the back of your ornament for hanging.
• Important reminders about glue and glitter! Squeezing glue is actually a developmental motor skill. Let your kid do it. It might be messy and gloppy, but it’s building their coordination skills. Glitter in your rug is like a great Christmas memory. IT NEVER GOES AWAY! Cover your work surface and monitor your budding design expert. Megan Brown-Ellis is The Unit Director of The Salvation Army Boys & Girls Club of Oklahoma City. She has her Masters in Education from The Harvard Graduate School of Education.
Puzzles with missing pieces Cut out a donut shaped piece of cardboard or tag board. Old cereal boxes are great for this. Paint old puzzle pieces green. Let them dry. Remember to cover your child’s work surface! Glue a layer of dry puzzle pieces to your cardboard donut. Let dry. Keep gluing on a layer at a time until you can’t see the cardboard anymore. Tie a bow out of anything red and glue it to the bottom of the wreath. Glue a loop of ribbon or string to the back of the wreath for hanging!
Old Christmas cards… You know you’ve got ‘em! Cut out characters or scenes. Attach a ribbon loop to the back. Clean out food lids with a lip (plastic yogurt, cream cheese, or butter lids will work and so will metal spaghetti sauce jar lids, peanut butter, or jelly lids). Use the lid as your stencil to trace a circle onto the part of the Christmas card you want to use as an ornament. Cut out the circle on the Christmas card and glue the picture inside the lid. Add some flare to the ornament by adding glitter.
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by Rachel Yates The numbers are disturbing: every year in this country 2 million adolescents attempt suicide, resulting in 700,000 emergency room visits. Suicide is the 2nd most common cause of death in the U.S. military. In the first 155 days of 2012, 154 active-duty troops took their own lives – a death toll that is 50 percent higher than the number of U.S. forces killed in action in Afghanistan during the same period. High profile suicide cases tend to generate a lot of media attention, but that coverage often overlooks the complexities that contribute to suicidal behavior. After a suicide, it’s common to seek answers about why it happened and to look for someone or something to blame – trauma, schools, parents, or bullying. But simplistic explanations ignore the reality that suicidal impulses rarely arise because of one person, one difficulty, or one event. Most often, depression and feelings of despair become evident well before attempts at suicide. That’s why it’s essential that all of us learn to recognize the warning signs and understand how to take action before a crisis that could result in the loss of another life. That’s why the Wellness Now initiative has taken on suicide prevention education as a major priority. Wellness Now is a community-led initiative of individuals and organizations who share a vision to improve the health and wellness of Oklahoma City and County. The Wellness Now Mental Health Workgroup is engaging schools, health care professionals, military and Tribal organizations to help disseminate information about how to respond when an individual may be at risk of a suicide attempt. “People often react to talk of suicide with fear and denial, or shock and anger,” says Workgroup Co-Chair Jim Igo, Vice President of Integris Mental Health. “We want to give people the tools they need to talk with someone who may be suicidal, to learn how to listen and to persuade that person to seek help. Resources are readily available in our community and our task is to connect those at risk with the help they need.” Wellness Now suicide prevention efforts are beginning with a program called Lifelines. It’s a curriculum for school teachers, administrators and counselors as well as bus drivers, cafeteria workers or any one who may have contact with students. Lifelines program teaches specific details on how to recognize students who may be at risk of suicide and offers instructions on how to help. 38
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The Lifelines program has a 20 year track record of successful suicide prevention. This fall, Putnam City Schools became the first district in the state to sign on to the program. “We know that this program can be effective in reducing youth suicide, and we’re hoping that other school districts will follow suit,” Igo says. Beyond emergency response, HeartLine’s Healthy Education for Life Program (HELP) program is providing middle and high school students with free interactive suicide prevention training through on-site seminars. Students are taught warning signs, how to get help, and positive coping skills. HELP addresses mental illness, high stress levels, and bullying- all common factors in youth suicide. The third element of Wellness Now’s suicide prevention efforts is intended for the general public. It’s called QPR training – Question, Persuade, Refer. If a child, a friend or a colleague says “I can’t go on anymore. I just want out. I can’t go on living,” or expresses similar clues, QPR offers direct advice for appropriate responses that could save the life of an individual considering suicide. The first step is to listen closely, then to ask questions about suicide, if suicide is a possibility The next steps involve persuading the individual to delay any attempt at suicide and to give reassurance and to stay close while getting help. As U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Regina Benjamin says, preventing suicide is everyone’s business, and staying connected through our communities is key. “It’s not one person that can stop a suicide, it’s going to be the whole community - the workplace, schools, teachers — everyone getting together and making it okay to talk about it, making it okay to get rid of the silence, get rid of the prejudice,” Dr. Benjamin says. “Nearly a hundred Americans die by suicide every single day, and in the past year, more than 8 million Americans had serious thoughts of suicide. I ask everyone to help by learning about the symptoms of mental illnesses and substance abuse, the warning signs of suicide, how to stand with and support someone who is in crisis, and how to get someone you care about the help they need.”
In addition to the Lifelines program, Wellness Now is promoting the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). Calls to the Lifeline are free and confidential and they’re answered 24/7. Oklahoma calls are routed to the local HeartLine crisis intervention service where callers can link to help from mental health professionals and others trained in intervention. Rachel Yates is the Director of Suicide Prevention & Outreach Programs for Heartline. For information on Wellness Now’s suicide prevention efforts contact Tracy McKeown at (405) 419-4142 or visit our website at
www.occhd.org. If you are concerned about yourself or someone you care about, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 24/7 for free confidential help at 1-800-273-8255.
Oklahoma Suicide Statistics* • Oklahoma ranks 12th worst in the nation for deaths caused by suicide. • Suicide was the most common manner of violent death in Oklahoma from 2004 to 2009. • In Oklahoma, suicide is the second-leading cause of death for young people ages 10 to 24. • An average of 534 people die by suicide each year in Oklahoma. • About 32% of suicide victims previously expressed their suicidal intent to another person. • Data derived from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and the Summary of Violent Death Trends in Oklahoma, 2004-2009.
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Diabetes Diagnosis - continued from page 34 I’ve been there with family members as they receive this news for themselves, and have had countless conversations with others in my clinic about how they can make the best of this challenging diagnosis. There is hope and happiness after a diagnosis of diabetes. In fact, not only is it possible to maintain good health with diabetes, many people dramatically improve their overall health. There are several simple adjustments that can make all the difference in living with diabetes. It is possible to live a long, healthy, happy and active life.
by Sara Alavi Happiness is a state of mind. The practice of meditation is a process of learning to control the mind. Most people long to be happy and typically want to feel good. When we become able to locate our breath and the mind-body connection is formed, we tend to feel more alive and present. When we have happy thoughts, we are happy beings. When the opposite state exists, there may be a feeling of, life going by us without experiencing joy. Our senses become numbed with worry, busyness and stress. Meditation is the act of inviting your soul, light and spirit back into your body. Meditation creates a friendship within one’s soul. Meditation works to actively harmonize thoughts with body, mind and soul causing them to resonate at the same frequency, in the same space and at the same time. Why meditate – to be happy, healthy, peaceful and alive. Chakras are the main energy wheels/sources in our body and our true self lives in our heart. Our heart chakra has the highest energy frequency. The heart chakra is often referred to as the Master chakra. When we are connected to our soul, we cannot have unhealthy or unhappy thoughts and there are no unhappy feelings. A spiritual path is then essential to our health. Spirituality is not an option if we want to feel happy and healthy – it is a must. This is not the same as religion. Our bodies communicate the level of connection with the soul. Living in an unhealthy state means that something is blocked and all illnesses can be tracked back to a lack of love. In our own heart there lies the greatest freedom from suffering and illness. Our body has all the energy it needs to heal and radiate light. Spirituality is simply honoring the gift of life. We need to love ourselves in order to heal ourselves. How many times have we been seeking love and approval from an outside source? And every time that seeking has disempowered us and has made us victims. Ask yourself, how much do you do just to get love? During meditation, one can tap into their heart chakra where all true love and light needed are readily available to us. Now is the time to stop hating and start loving. We need to start forgiving. Our true purpose, our mission, is to be fully alive in every breath - that is the wonderful side effect of meditation.
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If you are committing yourself to begin meditating, the place to start is to contact a meditation center or sign up at a meditation workshop to learn various techniques. Next, you must set aside time daily so that you can practice what you have learned. Initially, setting a private session with a meditation teacher is also a very good idea. There is sitting meditation, walking meditation, guided meditation, eating meditation, candle meditation, silence meditation, focused meditation, breath awareness meditation and light meditation (my personal favorite). You may choose to practice any of these, depending on what is going on in your life at the time. I hope this message inspires you to plunge into a new life filled with joy, love, and forgiveness. I hope you will teach the young children and adults in your life to meditate as well. There is a lot of turmoil in the world. We must do our part and learn to quiet our minds so that we may cultivate peace and harmony within our own hearts and learn to love ourselves and one another no matter what. This is the only hope for humanity and world peace.
You may call Sara at 405-203-8927 to find out more and or to register for a private session, a meditation classes or a workshop, or to find out about other meditation centers in your area.
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On-site digital mammography services available at Expo from The Oklahoma Breast Care Center for women that pre-schedule their screening by calling
800.422.4626 ext. 110
No doctor referral needed if you are over 35 Join us at the
Give Yourself the Gift of Health Expo Saturday, Dec. 1
at the YMCA of GREATER OKLAHOMA CITY, Rockwell Plaza location
We are interviewing seasoned sales reps
Thrive Oklahoma Magazine Send resume to Publisher at thriveokinfo@gmail.com Medical terminology a plus but not required Part-time available
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Uptown Grocery Co.
Produce, Butcher Block, Gourmet Grille, Great Grains Bakery, Sushi at the Grille 1230 W, Covell Road, Edmond 405-509-2700
In Classen Curve • brunch/lunch/dinner Sustainable Raw Cuisine 5820 North Classen Oklahoma City, www.matthewkenneycuisine.com With 5 Locations in OKC, Norman & Now in Edmond Vegan and gluten free options Pizza, wraps, soup, salads. Frozen yogurt and smoothies
For info on catering call 405-250-9637 www.mycoolgreens.com/locations
Mickey Mantle’s Steakhouse Explore chef-driven creations by Daniel Nemec. Gluten Free Menu Opens Daily at 5 pm
Offers an unparalleled dining experience!
405-272-0777
Health Food Center 7301 S. Penn. Ave., OKC 405-681-6060
Fruit Smoothies/ Veggie Juice, Hot Paninis, Buffalo Burgers, Espresso, Iced Coffee and Daily Specials
www.thehealthfoodcenter.com
by Randy Sadler On October 13th, 2012 over 1800 of the world’s best athletes toed the start line at the Ironman World Championships in Kona, Hawaii. The race is a total of 140.6miles: 2.4mile swim; 112 mile bike; and a 26.2mile (marathon) run. Among the field, was Oklahoma’s own, Doc Amanda Stevens. Known for her strength as a swimmer, she set a World Record for the Ironman Swim at the European Championships earlier this summer, she quickly set the pace from the starting cannon. She led the entire 1.2mile swim and even passed several of the men that had a five minute head start! Stevens said, “My coach didn’t let me swim in the ocean leading up to the race. He wanted to dangle that carrot out in front of me. So, on race day, I really had a good time out there. At one point, I just smiled to myself thinking how awesome it was to be leading the World Championships! Not many athletes get the opportunity to do that.”
made me feel right at home as I had done a lot of my training along Northwest Expressway.”
Heading onto the 112 mile bike portion of the race, Stevens maintained the lead through town and up the famous Palani hill that leads onto the Queen K highway. She had been leading the bike for almost an hour, when the chase pack of ladies caught up. “I raced hard out in the front. I knew the girls were chasing hard and wanted to make sure I got out onto the Queen K first. We have to keep 12 meters between each of our bikes, so we are not drafting, but it is better to ride in a group. It helps keep the pace and effort high. I stayed with this lead group and took a few risks to stay with them when they would try to break away,” reported Stevens. “The winds were tough out there, which
Amanda Stevens is a native Oklahoman from Enid, a Medical Doctor, Motivational Speaker and Professional Athlete.
Watch for more about Doc Amanda Stevens in the upcoming Thrive Fitness Guide in January 2013
The competitors biked their way back to Kauila-Kona to begin the marathon. This marathon is unique. There are lava fields on both sides, which soak the heat from the sun creating an oven affect. Surface temperatures regularly soar well over 100 degrees. At the second transition Stevens was flying, setting a pace on the 1st 13miles at 7:19 minutes per mile. Historically, many people fade on the latter part of the marathon due to the extreme conditions. Doc Stevens completed the entire course in 9 hours 51 minutes, coming in 18th overall. “I’ll take some valuable lessons from this and move forward. If anything, this leaves me hungry for next year,” admits Stevens.
Meet Doc Amanda in person December 1st at the
Give Yourself the Gift of Health
Symposium & Expo at the new YMCA of GREATER OKLAHOMA Rockwell Plaza location off NW Expressway behind Target.