How Do You Change the Face of an Icon? Maryhill Museum of Art Answers: With Extreme Prudence

By Seth Sjostrom

If you have ever driven along Interstate 84 through the Columbia River Gorge and looked north, you have likely seen the enormous concrete mansion towering above. A sentinel among the hills along the river’s cleft; Maryhill looms above, a mysterious and intriguing landmark for travelers along the mighty Columbia.

For over 70 years, Maryhill Museum of Art has stood vigil high on the northern bank of the Columbia River Gorge. Built in 1918 by pioneer and transportation visionary, Sam Hill, it was to be a residence for he and his wife, Mary. Presiding over his planned ranch in Washington, the mansion was never settled into as a home. Instead, years later, it was transformed into a museum which opened to the public in 1940.

Despite its majestic size and architecture, Maryhill’s Executive Director Colleen Schafroth comments, “It has always been 5 inches too small.” Designed to be a house, carved into many smaller spaces, presents challenges for a museum. Utilization of space itself was the primary issue. Collections had to be stored in countless rooms and closets scattered throughout the structure. Viewing, cataloguing and utilizing those works was an unnecessary challenge. With no large space appropriate for bigger groups, educational programs took place among the gallery. This meant during a program, that area would have to be shut down for visitors. It also meant, the wonderful hands-on programs for young artists were also in the midst of the gallery. A dozen children with paint brushes in range of priceless art (not that their efforts weren’t priceless themselves) was cause for concern.

 Maryhill
 
Enter the decision to add on to the building for the first time in its architectural existence. No easy task when you are talking about a building which has stood as such a geographic icon for the better part of a century, one that has been on the National Register of Historic Places for more than three decades and is perched on the edge of national scenic area.
 
Situated on the cliff in the Gorge presented additional issues. How do you not take away from the natural beauties which you are afforded but rather take advantage of that wonder? For the building itself, how do your respect the integrity of the original architecture while adding on to it? Those questions set forth the design goals. Delineate new from old, make the new structure complementary but not try to match or detract. Preserve the views which the property is graced with- from the east, west and south. Easy right?
 
Museum
 
Roughly $10 million and two years later, I walk around the updated facility and feel confident that they have succeeded with all over their goals. GBD Architects and Contractor Schommer and Sons Construction, both of Portland, combined to create over 25,000 total feet of new space. Gene Callan of GBD, also a Goldendale, WA native was excited to be a part of the renovations. The introduction of which leads you through 1700 square foot passage that links the new wing with the existing structure.
 
As you walk from the old to the new, you see the transition, stripped to its stone and concrete core, visitors pass through the seam that unites the past and present. The new wing leads you through a corridor of glass which provides visitors with amazing views in nearly every direction. Some of the corridor affords the museum with additional gallery space. At the end of the passage, you are delighted with a massive outdoor plaza which serves as a jaw-dropping overlook, a competition to the human art housed inside the museum itself. Mt.Hood, the Columbia and the sweeping lines of the Gorge. A new café, Loie’s, is nestled just inside the patio, offering more efficient and upgraded services than previously available. On the opposite end of the wing is a large educational hall equipped with state of the art audio/visual tools.
 
Most of the new wing is buried underground- a safe, practical haven for the Museum’s many collections. The new part of the building, named the Mary and Bruce Stevenson Wing, is being evaluated for LEED Gold rating status. Much of the new structure was created from recycling the natural resources pulled from the excavation of the site. The concrete floors provide thermal efficiency and utilizing spring water from the property acts as a source of energy, reducing the need for electricity and natural gas.
 
Perhaps even more amazing, the project was completed with zero debt. A major gift from Mary Hoyt Stevenson and award granted by the Washington State Building for the Arts fund launched the campaign. Pledges from the Cannon Power group and the Mary Hoyt Stevenson Foundation powered with donations from a variety of supporters funded the expansion in its entirety. Compromises such as Gold versus Platinum LEED certification and a few items tossed from the wish list kept the project in budget.
 
Art
 
 
Aesthetically, the new wing fits in with the original structure like a younger sibling. It is distinct, yet related. It is beautiful in its own right, but heeds to the status of its senior. Cantilevered into the hillside, the Stevenson Wing yields to the original structure. Almost all of the original southern façade is retained, preserving the icon view from travelers to the south. The main entrance was kept original; assuring the nostalgia of past visits would be maintained.
 
The next time you are faced with the question of how to transform an icon, how to create new while respecting the original, look to Maryhill Museum of Art. As many museums are, Maryhill is a work of art in and of itself.
 

About the contributor: Seth Sjostrom is a local resident and author. His thriller Blood in the Snow, is currently available and Seth releases his holiday title Finding Christmas in September. For more information on Seth or his books, visit www.wolfprintpublishing.com. 

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Locally Owned: Lacamas Medical Group Talks Primary Care

Locally Owned will highlight local businesses in the Camas, Washougal/East County area. Many of us prefer to support our friends and neighbors; these articles will help you get to know them a little bit better.

In this edition, we visit a Camas stalwart for nearly a decade – Lacamas Medical Group. Nestled on the corner of 3rd Street and 2nd Street, Lacamas Medical Group or LMG has been treating small emergencies and been a family doctor to many of us. I was able to sit down and have a conversation with founder and clinician, Scott Jonason, PA-C.

SS: Where do you see Primary Care today?
Jonason: I have been a clinician for over 18 years now. For the first time, there is a focus on primary care. As a medical society, we have come to realize that we can save lives…and money through preventive medicine. By understanding our patients and uncovering problems early and by intervening early, we are able to lessen the effects of chronic disease. Chronic disease is such a large component of illness and cost in our healthcare challenges.

SS: Tell me a little about Lacamas Medical Group.
Jonason: We started from the ground up in 2003. We began right out of the gate with EMR (electronic medical records) which was unusual for new clinics at the time. We started with and have maintained an Open Access model to scheduling. That means we don’t fill our time slots solid, we force gaps so that we have room to see patients when they need to be seen. That is better for them and better for continuity of care so that they are having to seek treatment elsewhere. This model works for helping patients with Same Day or Urgent Care needs.

SS: What sets Lacamas Medical Group apart from other clinics?
Jonason: We are small enough to provide more personable care and service than larger clinics, yet large enough to offer extended hours, onsite lab and X-ray, as well as having enough varied provider personalities to match patient needs.

SS: LMG has implemented many innovations to improve your patients’ health care experience, tell me about some of those.
Jonason: We are always looking for ways to be more efficient and effective for our patients, always making their care better and not diminished by those changes. One such addition is our in-clinic pharmacy. We are now able to offer several generic medications right in our office, saving them the trip to another location. We have a HIPAA compliant patient portal that offers secure communication between LMG staff and patients – covering everything from lab results to appointment reminders. We recently upgraded to a digital X-ray machine offering a dramatic improvement to the quality of images. This allows us to see things that might have been missed or more difficult to see.

SS: How does Lacamas Medical Group connect with the local community?
Jonason: We are really excited to announce that LMG is going to be a major sponsor of Camas Days this year. Annually, we offer the Camas School District sports physical scholarships to assist young athletes in each of our local schools. LMG is one of the only independent groups that offers free immunization clinics in Clark County, whether they are our patients or not. We have also enjoyed manning First Aid Tents at a variety of area events and schools functions and I have had the honor of being the Camas Football Team Doc for the past three years.

My take: Lacamas Medical Group sets itself apart from much of today’s blurred and sterile turnstile healthcare by offering personable, personalized health care. In my opinion, a bit of a rare find today. Having a more personal relationship between the clinician and the patient allows more access, better knowledge of the patient. This makes it easier to identify and manage both acute and chronic illnesses. In my conversation with Scott, he admitted, “That personal insight has many times helped me catch something early… that might have otherwise easily been missed.” Imagine, a medical provider that knows you well enough to spot subtle changes in you that they recognize something warrants a closer look. Small enough to be personable, large enough be technologically advanced.

Lacamas Medical Group is open Monday through Friday 8am to 7pm, Saturdays 9am to 2pm. Visit www.LacamasMedicalGroup.com or call 360-838-2440.

About the contributor: Seth Sjostrom is a local resident and author. His first release, Blood in the Snow, is now available. For more information on Seth or his books, visit www.wolfprintpublishing.com.
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Fever is our friend, acetaminophen is not

By Cynthia Bye, ND
Lacamas Magazine Contributor

For those that have been with me for a while, you know that I am an advocate of letting yourself or your children have a fever. Remember the body does things for a reason. When we get an invader in the body, the body in its infinite wisdom raises our body temperature to a level that is inhospitable to the invader. The only danger is if the temperature goes too high, or in children it raises too fast. In the case of children where a fever comes on quickly they can have a seizure and the first thing to do is put them in a cold bath and call 911. They will usually come out of it quickly as the cold bath brings down their temperature. My brother used to have these when we were growing up. A good immune response is a fever in the 101-103 range. Most bacteria and virus can not live at that temperature.

There have been many studies showing the side effects of all the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAIDS). We know that aspirin is hard on the gut, and acetaminophen and ibuprophen are toxic to the liver and kidneys.

Now a study about acetaminophen adding to asthma. We have known that there has been a significant increase in childhood asthma since the 1980′s. Many things contribute to this increase, change in diet, more sugar, dyes and preservatives in food, and now we are making the connection to the use of acetaminophen. The most recent studies show that acetaminophen decreases glutathione in the lungs. Glutathione is an enzyme that helps repair oxidative damage that causes inflammation in the lung tissue.

I know I sound like a broken record, but if you have enough pain or inflammation to need a NSAID, you need to treat the cause of the inflammation. The longer I am a physician the more I see that all disease is caused by inflammation. I see this in all my cancer patients. What is inflammation except the immune system reacting to some irritant. So let’s figure out what is irritating the body instead of taking a NSAID to reduce the symptom of inflammation, treat what is causing it. If you have a fever the irritant is a invader, if you have joint pain or allergies you most likely have a food allergy or bad digestion. Treat cause not symptoms.

Take medication only when you have to, and then work on why you have to take the medication so you can get off of it.

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Answering Myths, Misconceptions About Chiropractic

By Dr. Marc Davis

Do you know somebody with misconceptions about chiropractic?  As is usually the case with misleading information, confusion about chiropractic is based on rumors, not on facts.  

Marc+Davis.jpgHelp dispel the myths by sharing the following facts with friends, family and co-workers.

Myth:  Chiropractic is only good for back problems.

Although doctors of chiropractic, such as Dr. Davis, excel at providing swift, all-natural relief from back pain, chiropractors are much, much more than mere “back doctors.”

Doctors of chiropractic are prevention specialists.   Chiropractors focus on warding off disease and injury, rather than masking symptoms with medication.  By caring for the whole person, chiropractors help patients create winning wellness plans that combine regular chiropractic checkups with exercise recommendations, nutritional counseling, stress reduction programs and other lifestyle adjustments.

Spinal health is the cornerstone of the chiropractic approach to prevention.  Specifically, Dr. Davis works to keep patients’ spines free of vertebral subluxation, areas where movement is restricted or bones (vertebrae) are out of alignment.  This condition is linked with a myriad of ailments such as carpel tunnel syndrome, ear infection, back pain, vertigo, neck pain, headaches, high blood pressure and epilepsy.  Preliminary scientific evidence also suggests that vertebral subluxations may have a negative effect on the immune system (J Manipulative Physiol Ther 1992; 15:83-9).

Chiropractors correct vertebral subluxations with gentle maneuvers called chiropractic adjustments.

Myth: Chiropractic adjustments hurt.

New patients are often apprehensive about receiving their first chiropractic adjustment.  Much of this fear comes from knowing that a “cracking” sound results from some adjustments.  However, this sound (known as cavitation) is simply a drop in air pressure within a joint, which occurs when a “stuck” joint becomes “unstuck.”  Cavitation is NOT the sound of bones cracking or rubbing against each other.

Chiropractors are extensively trained to perform adjustments gently and to custom tailor these maneuvers for each individual’s unique body type.  The vast majority of patients experience no discomfort whatsoever from adjustments.  Rather, most patients report that they enjoy the procedure and find it relaxing.

Myth: Once you begin chiropractic care, you must continue it for the rest of your life.

The idea that chiropractic is “addictive” — or that patients must continue care forever to maintain relief from a specific injury — is a common misconception.   This myth is perpetuated by some factions of the health-insurance industry and other groups that focus on “quick fix” approaches like drugs and surgery, which often fail to provide lasting results and have potentially hazardous side effects.  In contrast, doctors of chiropractic concentrate on prevention.

The truth is, most chiropractic patients who seek care for pain relief recover from their symptoms within a short period of time.  In 1994, the Agency for Health Care Policy and Research (AHCPR), a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, confirmed this claim after intensive investigation.  The AHCPR states that: “For patients with acute low-back symptoms without radiculopathy, the scientific evidence suggests spinal manipulation is effective in reducing pain and perhaps speeding recovery within the first month of symptoms.”

True, popping a pill is faster than phoning your chiropractor for an appointment.  But unlike medication, chiropractic produces permanent relief — often in patients who have suffered from chronic pain for years.  That’s why many patients choose to continue periodic checkups, after their symptoms have subsided, to ward off other future ailments.

Focusing on prevention means averting disease before the onset of symptoms.  For example, prevention-oriented individuals visit their dentist regularly to remove plaque before it triggers tooth decay.  Concentrating on prevention also means exercising on a daily basis to prevent the buildup of fat on artery walls, which leads to cardiovascular disease.  In much the same way, patients who seek preventive chiropractic care don’t wait until vertebral subluxations multiply before taking steps to correct them.  These patients aren’t addicted to chiropractic any more than individuals who see their dentist regularly —  or who work out a few hours a week — are addicted to teeth cleanings or exercise.

Myth: Chiropractic is unsafe.

According to a wealth of scientific evidence, chiropractic is an extremely safe health-care option — especially when the alternative (medication or surgery) is considered.  Medication and surgery have staggeringly dismal safety records.  Even the seemingly benign class of over-the-counter medication called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) has disastrous side effects.  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 76,000 people are hospitalized each year due to adverse reactions to NSAIDs.  And, an estimated 7,600 will die this year alone as a direct result of NSAIDs.

Myth: Chiropractors are poorly educated.

Think doctors of chiropractic aren’t well educated?  Think again.  Here are the facts:

Prior to applying to chiropractic school, college students must complete the identical “pre-med” curriculum that medical students follow.  This includes courses in physics, chemistry, biology, psychology and liberal arts.  These prerequisite courses take at least two years to complete.

Chiropractic school consists of another four years of full-time study.  The average number of basic science hours is 1,420, including approximately 570 hours of anatomy, 305 hours of physiology, 205 hours of pathology, 150 hours of biochemistry, 120 hours of microbiology and 70 hours of public health (Chiropractic in the United States:  Training, Practice and Research, 1997).

And that’s just the beginning.  Merely completing six years of intense study isn’t enough to become a doctor of chiropractic.  He or she must pass a series of four comprehensive national board examinations and a local jurisprudence examination before obtaining a license to practice.

Myth: Massage therapy produces the same results as chiropractic.

Massage therapy is a highly effective, drug-free approach to relieving strained muscles, increasing circulation, easing stress and inducing deep relaxation.  Preliminary research also suggests that massage therapy boosts the immune system.  Because of these benefits, doctors of chiropractic frequently recommend massage as an adjunctive to chiropractic care.  Many chiropractors even invite massage therapists to join their staff.

Despite its benefits, however, massage therapy is not a substitute for chiropractic care because it does not correct vertebral subluxations.  Unlike chiropractors, massage therapists are not doctors:  They do not have the same extensive training and are not qualified to perform spinal adjustments or diagnose medical disorders.

Myth:  Chiropractic is expensive.

Industry studies reveal that chiropractic costs less than traditional medical care when chiropractors are the first doctors visited (Med Care 1996; 34:191-204).

Researchers at Oakland University focused on patients suffering from one or more of 493 conditions.  Roughly one quarter of the 395,641 patients studied were cared for by doctors of chiropractic.  Findings revealed “patients receiving chiropractic care experienced significantly lower health-care costs.”  Specifically, chiropractic patients saved approximately $1,000 each over a two-year period (J Manipulative Physiol Ther 1993; 16:291-9).

Another study looked at 3,062 workers’ compensation claims for low-back pain.  The analysis found that the compensation costs of claims for injuries treated by medical practitioners were 10 times the costs of those handled by chiropractors (J Occup Med 1991; 33:847-52).

Dr. Marc Davis can be reached at 360.823.2225 or at www.davisfamilychiro.com

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NW Destinations: Historic Benjamin Young Inn

It is easy to feel relaxed at this romantic getaway.  The Benjamin Young Inn Bed & Breakfast sits on the hillside in beautiful Astoria.  Its location gives a great view of the Columbia River, and is located close to the world-famous Astoria Column and well-loved “Goonies” home.

In 1888 Benjamin Young, an early-day salmon packer, built this amazing house on the original bank of the Columbia River.  The house has been well maintained throughout the years and is recognized throughout Oregon as an outstanding example of Queen Anne architecture. The house is even listed in the National Registry of Historic Places.

The current owner Carolyn Hammer, who purchased the home almost 18 years ago, is only the second owner outside of the Young family.  Benjamin’s oldest daughter became a doctor and inherited the home in which she ran her practice.  She then handed it over to her daughter Josephine who was a teacher and taught English at Astoria High School.  It was her daughter, Chris, who was the first to sell it and move outside of Astoria.

A common place for weddings and romantic getaways there are five different rooms to choose from.  The Fireplace Suite is a large first floor suite with a king size bed.  The bay window and fireplace give it the needed essentials for romance.  It also includes such amenities as a TV/DVD, double whirlpool tub, and an adjoining room with its own queen and single beds.

The Honeymoon Suite is a large elegant second floor room with antique furnishings, and private bath.  The canopy queen bed and sitting room have great views of the Columbia River, and touches of wedding bliss add to the elegance.

The Lady Ann Room is a second floor suite that also has an outstanding view of the Columbia River and wooded hillsides.  It has a private bath with shower, queen bed, loveseat, two plush comfortable rocking chairs, and TV/DVD.

You will often find the Rose Room sunlit on the second floor with an excellent view of the Columbia and gardens.  It also has a queen bed and private bath.  Last is the Dorothy Room with the same amazing views, queen bed, private bath, and single bed.

Breakfast is served in the dining room and is prepared by Carolyn.  She tries to keep the menu varied, but always filled with amazing dishes such as orange French toast, chicken apple sausage, blueberry pancakes, omelets, eggs benedict with hollandaise sauce, or scones with cranberries.

With plenty to do and see in Astoria and a great place to stay The Benjamin Young Inn Bed & Breakfast is a great place for your next romantic getaway.

To contact the Benjamin Young, call  800.201.1286 or 503.325.6172. You can also find them at www.BenjaminYoungInn.com.

 
Benjamin Young Inn
 
 
 
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Destinations NW: All Aboard The Red Caboose Getaway

The Red Caboose Getaway, located in Sequim, WA is a romantic getaway with a twist.  Once you check in at the “Station” the manager shows you to your very own caboose.  From the outside it looks like your typical on-the-tracks caboose, but once you hop aboard and open the cabin door you’ll see a warm and inviting surprise.

Each caboose has its own theme.  On track one is the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad car.  Featuring items of a railway theme you’ll be ready to sport your conductor’s hat and holler “All Aboard”.  Don’t be deceived, if you look closely you can find many modern conveniences including your own refrigerator, TV/DVD, and natural gas stove to give your caboose that cozy feeling.  These conveniences along with the beautiful original hard wood floors, and fresh flowers are found in each of the cars.  It’s a great way to get away without leaving modern convenience behind.

Track two is a representation of the Orient Express, and even if you can’t tell from the outside one look through the cabin door makes it all clear.  The fabrics bear an Asian look, and the overstuffed bed and Jacuzzi tub call out begging you to come in and relax.

Track three is the circus car, but you won’t find any animals in this caboose.  Painted in sky blue and accented with bright colors this car is sure to be a hit with the kid inside all of us.  If you can’t leave the kids behind, don’t worry, this car has room for four. Steal away your own private getaway by enjoying the Jacuzzi tub also found in this car.

Then there’s the Western Car, complete with saloon swinging doors and an authentic antique claw foot tub.

No matter which caboose you stay the night in everyone comes together in the Burlington Dining Car for breakfast. With owners Olaf waiting tables, and his wife Charolette in the back cooking up breakfast you feel like a VIP.  Of course the menu is always changing, but a visit this time of year could provide a menu as delicious as baked Washington apples, and Dutch baby pancakes filled with freshly picked black berries.  Even before that you can start off with one of the many flavors of hot chocolate, coffee, or tea while enjoying a loaf of cinnamon roll bread.  Whatever the menu, you’re sure to enjoy Charolette’s fantastic cooking and Olaf’s warm and inviting personality.

Every moment from the time you board to the time you disembark will be filled with character, personality, and most of all, FUN. To book your reservation, call 360.683.7350.  Visit the website at www.redcaboosegetaway.com

 

Red Caboose Getaway
The Red Caboose Getaway is for people who love trains
and want something different for their vacation.

 

Red Caboose Getaway
 
  
Red Caboose Getaway Dining Car
The Dining Car
Red Caboose Getaway
Inside one of the train cars.
 
 
 
 
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Organ Donation: Grant Enlightens Students

Did you know that every 80 minutes a patient passes away due to the shortage of available organs for transplant? Camas High Senior, Rachel Grant, found that out recently and decided to teach others about organ donation.

Camas High School requires it seniors to complete a “Senior Project,” which can involve shadowing a professional in a given career field, community service, inventions, and anything that challenges the student.

Rachel Grant

Senior Rachel Grant

Seniors submit projects for approval, and once approved, the senior embarks on his or her given project.

So Grant decided to pursue a project focused on organ donation.

She said she had a few experiences that solidified her choice for a Senior Project.

“I was away from home over the summer and had very little to do, so my mind was clear of deadlines and things to remember,” she said. “I was watching TV and retaining just about everything because of the space available in my mind, when a commercial came on, detailing the facts about organ donation. I was touched by the stories of selfless people who simply said ‘yes’ while at the DMV.”

According to LifeCenter Northwest, each ‘yes’ has the potential to save over eight lives and improve the lives of over 100 people.

“So, my Senior Project is based around organ donation,” Grant continued. “I have done extensive research and talked with people who are living donors. I’ve talked with the majority of the Freshmen English classes at Camas High School, informing them of the facts about organ donation, so they could choose, upon receiving their license, to be or not to be an organ donor. I always thought it was strange that people are asked to make a decision that isn’t taught
in driver’s education or any kind of class taught at school. I want people to be informed and make an educated decision.”

Grant worked for months to plan and execute her project, which culminated in a two-day event on February 13-14 at Camas High School. She provided students with all the facts she had available about organ donation.

She had two large posters on which students signed, indicating that they were organ donors. When the students signed the poster, they were given a treat. Dairy Queen donated 10 ‘Free Treat’ coupons, knowing the importance of her project.

As the event concluded, the posters were full of signatures, and the event exceeded her expectations.

“I’m pleased with the overall success and I felt enlightened to know how many students at Camas High School are organ donors,” said Grant.

Organ Donation Facts*:

Fact: The number of individuals in need of transplants continues to grow but the number of people who register to be a donor is not keeping pace.

Fact:
 Anyone can be a potential donor regardless of age, race, or medical history.

Fact:
 Every 80 minutes a patient passes away due to the shortage of available organs for transplant.

Fact:
 Transplant success rates increase when organs are matched between members of similar ethnic backgrounds. Ethnic minorities wait twice as long as white Americans for kidney transplants.

Fact:
 Most major religions in
the United States support organ, eye, and tissue donation, seeing it as the final act of love and generosity toward others.

Fact:
 If you are sick or injured and admitted to the hospital, the number one priority is saving your life. Organ, eye, and tissue donation can only be considered after you are deceased.

Fact:
 There is no discrimination due to age, sex, race, sexual orientation, occupation, social status, financial status, or any other factor when determining who gives or receives an organ.

Fact:
 An open casket funeral is possible for organ, eye, and tissue donors. Through the entire donation process the body is treated with care, respect, and dignity.

Fact:
 There is no cost to the donor or their family for organ, eye, and tissue donation.

Fact:
 Agreeing to donation for research when registering donation wishes for organ, eye, and tissue donation, does not include whole body donation.

The Numbers:

As of February 14th, 2012, there are 112,995 people on the waiting list for an organ transplant.
There were 12,958 donors in 2011, not nearly as many donors as people waiting for an organ.

*Facts from LifeCenter Northwest and United Network for Organ Sharing

 

Grace Harker
Grace Harker and Paige Jackson sign a posted indicating
they are organ donors. 
Cait Peterson
Cait Peterson is all smiles.

 

Organ Donor Poster
A Camas High School students sign an organ donor poster.
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Hord: Teacher, Author Talks Children’s Literature

Meet Colleen Hord: Teacher, Writing Specialist, and Book Author.And during the last two years, she’s been extra busy writing 12 books, five of which have been published, with the remaining seven being released later this year. The books cater to grades K-3 and have simple but meaningful titles, such as “My Green Lunch” or “My Safe Community.”  Other titles are: “Clean and Green Energy,” “Need it or Want It? and “What’s my Role?”

“I absolutely love to write,” says Hord. “It’s my passion.”

The books are fun and teach children about recycling, re-using material goods, conserving energy, and being safe. Hord currently teaches second grade at Grass Valley School in Camas, and it’s clear from spending time with the class, they enjoy her books, too.

Student Tyler Vanderwood, 7, says he thinks “the books are good, and they’re good for the earth.”

Kennedy Linton, 8, calls Hord her “favorite person” and loves to read Hord’s books. “She teaches us how to write better,” she adds. “And I like that.”

Hord has cultivated her 30 years of teaching experience and love for writing into a mission. “I want all these kids to learn how to write properly,” she said. “And I get so much joy from that.”

Hord’s teaching career began in 1982 at the Cheyenne Indian Reservation in Montana.  Her career took her to Wyoming, Arizona and ultimately, Camas, where she started teaching in 1990 at Lacamas Heights.

 

 
Colleen Hord
Colleen Hord is a teacher, writing specialist and author of 12 books.

Since then, she has taught at Helen Baller and Dorothy Fox, where she served as a writing specialist. She spent three years in Washougal, and then returned to the Camas School District. She is in her second year at Grass Valley.Grass Valley is a green school and Hord serves on the Eco team, which helps the school maintain its green certification. “It’s fitting given some of the books I’ve written,” she says.

Rourke Publishing, based in Florida, approached her several years ago to write children’s books. She started the process in 2010. During the course of 18 months, she wrote the 12 books in collaboration with Rourke’s Editor-In-Chief, Luana Mitten.

“Colleen is just wonderful,” says Mitten. “We work well together, and she really has a way of getting content to the right reading level.”

Mitten says Colleen’s experience suited her for the writing projects.

“We choose writers who know the content we seek,” says Mitten. “So we frequently work with teachers who specialize in a given subject area.”

Book production begins in the fall, says Hord, so “I work pretty hard on the weekends between September and December writing the books.”

By Christmas, Hord’s books go into a final manuscript, and then Rourke’s artists go to work on photos and illustrations. The design process lasts until May and the book goes to the printer by July.

“It’s a fun process,” says Hord. “I really get into it and do a lot of research.”

Hord says her experience in the classroom teaching the beginning reader is very helpful to the book writing process. “I can see where the needs are and I address them in the books,” she says.

The exact content of her seven books in production is hush-hush, but we can say four are children’s stories and three are biographies.

Rourke Publishing has been in business for 33 years and caters to both US and international markets. Consumers can buy directly from www.rourkepublishing.com or www.amazon.com (with individual books or collections) and schools can purchase collections by going to www.rourkeclassroom.com, which sells the paper back versions. They come out simultaneously with the hardcover versions.

Mitten wasn’t able to provide exact sales figures, but did say Hord’s books have been re-printed several times already. “They’re good sellers,” she said. “She does an excellent job.”

Scott McCoy, one of Hord’s Grass Valley School colleagues, agrees. “I’ve been impressed with her books and what they teach the children.”

As for what’s next? “More writing,” she says. “And more teaching – I love it!”

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Addressing Whiplash and Jaw Problems

By Dr. Marc Davis, DC

A crucial tenet of chiropractic is that the body works as a whole and should be treated as such, not as a series of isolated parts.  Doctors of chiropractic, like Dr Davis, understand that dysfunction in one area of the body will affect function in other areas.  The relationship between whiplash injury and temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a clear example of this premise.

Marc Davis

Dr. Marc Davis

Many people don’t realize that sustaining a whiplash injury can affect more than the neck – and that the injury can be long-lasting.  Any accident, even a minor fender bender, may trigger serious conditions.  Vertebral subluxations are areas in the spine where movement is restricted or vertebrae are slightly out of place.

Whiplash injury frequently causes vertebral subluxations, which can, in turn, lead to temporomandibular (or jaw) issues.  Dr. Davis uses gentle maneuvers called chiropractic adjustments to remove vertebral subluxations.

The Whiplash/TMD Link

Many studies link whiplash injury to temporomandibular joint dysfunction – or a dysfunction in the jaw joint.  One 2008 investigation specifically reviewed whether a whiplash injury can lead to TMD.  In the study, researchers examined 187 patients with whiplash-associated disorders (WAD).

The investigators found that “TMD could be verified in all patients with WAD.  According to these investigations a craniomandibular disorder (CMD) [disorder of the head and face muscles] was regularly found in patients with WAD and relief from suffering can often not be achieved without treatment of the CMD.” (HNO 2008;56:1114-21.)

Another 2004 analysis compared the prevalence of temporomandibular disorders between individuals with chronic WAD and a control group.  Researchers found that 89 percent of the individuals in the WAD group had severe symptoms of TMD, compared with 18 percent in the control group.  The researchers concluded that “the prevalence of TMD was higher among individuals with chronic WAD. …The results indicate that trauma to the neck also affects temporomandibular function.” (Swed Dent J 2004;28:29.)

Another study found that whiplash injuries often lead to impaired jaw function and eating difficulties.  The investigation compared 50 WAD patients with pain and dysfunction in the jaw-face region with 50 healthy age and sex matched controls without any history of neck injury.

The researchers found that before the accident, study participants in both the healthy and the WAD group reported no or few symptoms.  After the accident, the WAD patients complained of pain and dysfunction during mouth opening, biting, chewing, swallowing and yawning.

They also felt fatigue, stiffness and numbness in the jaw-face region.  In addition, a majority also reported avoiding tough food and big pieces of food and taking breaks during meals.

The researchers concluded that “these observations suggest an association between neck injury and disturbed jaw function and therefore impaired eating behavior.  A clinical implication is that examination of jaw function should be recommended as part of the assessment and rehabilitation of WAD patients.” (Swed Dent J 2008;32:171.)

Chiropractic Care for Whiplash

If you suffer a whiplash injury, it’s essential to schedule a chiropractic evaluation right away, even if you don’t have symptoms.  The doctor will examine not only your neck and spine for signs of injury, but also other areas, including the jaw, that could also be affected.  The doctor will work to correct any related problems, and to prevent any from emerging later.

Research shows that chiropractic care is highly effective in alleviating the pain and discomfort of whiplash injury.  According to a report in the Journal of Orthopaedic Medicine, chiropractic is “the only proven effective treatment” for chronic whiplash injury.

Investigators pooled data from telephone interviews of 93 (68 female and 25 male) chiropractic patients with chronic whiplash.  Patients were divided into three groups.  Group one suffered neck pain and restricted range of motion.  Group two demonstrated nervous symptom problems.  Group three reported severe neck pain and an “unusual complex of symptoms,” such as blackouts, visual disturbances, nausea and chest pain.

Each participant received an average of 19 chiropractic adjustments over approximately four months.  Altogether, 74 percent of patients improved following chiropractic care.  Specifically, 72 percent of group one, 94 percent of group two and 27 percent of group three benefited from chiropractic adjustments.  Even better, 24 percent of group one and 38 percent of group two became symptom free following chiropractic care.

Chiropractic Care for TMD

Receiving regular chiropractic care after sustaining a whiplash injury can keep TMD at bay.  But if you suspect you already have TMD, chiropractic can help get to the source of your discomfort and stop it for good.

In fact, research shows that more and more people are turning to complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), including chiropractic, for relief of TMD.  One recent study examined the use of CAM therapies among 192 patients with TMD.  Nearly two-thirds of the respondents reported using CAM therapies for TMD or a related condition.  In general, respondents who used CAM for their TMD reported being most satisfied with “hands on” CAM therapies, such as chiropractic care (J Orafac Pain 2003;17:224-36).

In another report, a doctor of chiropractic cared for patients suffering from TMD.  Patients were seen three times a week for two weeks and received adjustments to the spine and jaw.  At the end of two weeks, 90 percents of the patients reported significant improvement (J Manipulative Physiol Ther 2003;26:421-25).

Finally, a case study followed a 30 year-old woman with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain.  The patient suffered from nonstop jaw pain for seven years.  The researchers report that “pain radiated from her TMJ into her shoulder and was accompanied by headache, tinnitus, decreased hearing, and feeling of congestion in her right ear.  Symptoms were not reduced by medication or other dental treatments.”

The patient underwent chiropractic care and improved significantly.  During the first five months, her jaw pain decreased; her ability to eat solid foods increased; her headache intensity and frequency diminished; and her ability to open her mouth without pain improved.

After 20 months of chiropractic care, she was symptom-free beyond some fullness of the right cheek.  The researchers concluded that chiropractic care “was beneficial for this patient and merits further study in similar cases” (Altern Ther Health Med 2005;11:70-3.)

Dr. Marc Davis adjusts patients at Davis Family Chiropractic, a thriving wellness-oriented office located next to Fred Meyer in Fisher’s Landing. For FREE monthly tips and community events subscribe to Dr. Davis’ blog “Health Naturally” by going to www.davisfamilychiro.com and clicking on “Blog”.  To schedule a time to meet with Dr. Davis call (360) 823-2225. Mention “Lacamas Magazine” and “Free Scan” to get a free computerized Back and Neck Scan (regularly $210).

DAVIS FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC, PLLC

“For a Lifetime of Standing Tall!”

2415 SE 165TH Avenue, Suite 103

Vancouver, WA 98683

(360) 823-2225

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Research Shows Seniors Benefit from Chiropractic

by Dr. Marc Davis, DC
Marc Davis

Dr. Marc Davis

A growing number of seniors are reaping the benefits of chiropractic care.  And, a growing body of scientific evidence demonstrates that chiropractic is advantageous for older people.

Chiropractors often detect vertebral subluxations- areas of dysfunction among the bones of the spine (vertebrae) – in seniors.  This common malady is linked with an array of conditions, ranging from low-back pain and arthritis to Parkinson’s disease and hearing difficulties.  Doctors of chiropractic, like Dr Davis correct vertebral subluxations with safe, gentle maneuvers know as chiropractic adjustments.

Chiropractic More Effective than Medical Care for Seniors with Back Pain

New research indicates that many medical doctors are ‘deficient’ in their knowledge of how to care for patients with low-back pain (Spine 2009;34:1716-21). As part of the analysis, 253 orthopedic surgeons and 145 medical family practitioners completed a questionnaire regarding the management of simple low-back pain (LBP), while attending annual professional meetings.  “Answers were scored based on the national guidelines for management of low back pain.”

The study concludes that “both orthopedic surgeons’ and family physicians’ knowledge of treating LBP is deficient.  Orthopedic surgeons are less aware of current treatment than family practitioners.  Although the importance of publishing guidelines and keeping them up-to-date and relevant for different disciplines in different countries cannot be overstressed, disseminating the knowledge to clinicians is also very important to ensure good practice.” (Spine 2009;34:1716-21.)

Seniors with back pain require care by doctors who are aware of the distinctive spinal issues that affect an aging spine.  Because of their extensive knowledge of the spine, doctors of chiropractic, like Dr. Davis are uniquely positioned to provide seniors with exceptional care.

A just published report, which compared chiropractic care with medical care for older patients with low-back pain, concludes that chiropractic care is more effective (J Manipulative Physiol Ther 2009;32:330-43).

The randomized controlled trial included 240 people (105 women and 135 men).  The participants were all at least 55 years old with sub acute or chronic LBP.

The patients were divided into three groups.  Two groups underwent chiropractic care, each with a different type of chiropractic adjusting technique.  A third group underwent minimal conservative medical care, which is the common standard of medical care for seniors with LBP.

The chiropractic intervention included six weeks of care for a total of 12 visits.  Seniors who received either type of chiropractic adjustments enjoyed a statistically significant improvement in function over medically-treated patients.  What’s more, chiropractic care is drug-free, which is particularly beneficial for seniors who may be sensitive to drug interactions and side effects (J Manipulative Physiol Ther 2009;32:330-43).

Avoid Unnecessary Medication

During one 12-week study, chiropractors from 32 states and two Canadian provinces collected data on 805 patients over age of 55.  “Pain” was responsible for 72.3 percent of the complaints – with 32.9 percent directly related to back pain.

Results showed a significant drop in the use of pain medication among those who completed the study.  An increase in the use of pain medications, however, was noted among the 20 percent who discontinued chiropractic care prior to the close of the experiment (J Am Geriart Soc 2000;48:534-45).

Growing Numbers of Seniors Seek Chiropractic Care

As baby-boomers reach their senior years, a growing number of older people are discovering chiropractic.  Just how popular is chiropractic care for seniors?  When researchers surveyed 2,055 individuals age 65 or older, they found that 20 percent had visited an alternative care practitioner during the previous year.  Most of these visits were to doctors of chiropractic (J Amer Ger Soc 2000;48:1560-5).

In one analysis, 61.9 percent of those using complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) sought chiropractic care.  Results revealed that the “most prevalent motivations for using CAM were pain relief (54.8%), improved quality of life (45.2%) and maintenance of health and fitness (40.5%).” (J Gerontological Nursing 2003;29:20-8)

Lisa Killinger of Palmer Center for Chiropractic Research, Davenport, Iowa, says that “chiropractors may be well-positioned to play an important role in health promotion, injury and disease revention and on geriatric care teams, due to their practice style and holistic philosophy.” (Clin Geriart Med 2004;20:223-35).

In fact, the Agency for Health Care Policy and Research recommends chiropractic adjustment for seniors with acute low-back pain.  In addition, Killinger says the American Geriatric Society Panel Guidelines for the Management of Chronic Pain state that “non-pharmaceutical interventions, such as chiropractic, may be appropriate.”

Stay Sharp

Believe it or not, cognitive decline isn’t an inevitable aspect of aging.  It’s obvious that daily social interaction and mental stimulation, such as reading and solving puzzles, keep the brain sharp.  But did you know that regular chiropractic care may also preserve mental acumen?

Researchers in Auckland, New Zealand, divided 36 participants into two groups: a chiropractic group who received chiropractic adjustments to the upper cervical spine (spine of the neck), and a control group who underwent a sham procedure.  All 36 patients exhibited upper cervical vertebral subluxations at the beginning of the study.

After both procedures, investigators asked participants to identify whether objects appeared normal or as mirror-reversed on a computer screen.  The researchers then measure each participant’s reaction time.  Individuals in the chiropractic group demonstrated a 14.9 percent “significantly greater” improvement in reaction time, while the control group showed a mere 8 percent improvement.

“The results of this study have demonstrated a significant improvement in a complex reaction-time task after an upper cervical adjustment.  These results provide evidence that upper cervical adjustment may affect cortical processing.” (J Manipulative Physiol Ther 2000;23:246-51).

Motor Skills Matter

Chiropractic may also help seniors maintain their motor skills.  In one study, researchers asked seniors in a specialized test group to use a computer mouse to move their cursors onto a target in the center of a computer screen.  The researchers used a range of widths and target distances to vary the level of difficulty.

“All participants in the experimental group (those receiving chiropractic care) had significantly improved movement times following spinal adjustments compared with only one participant in the control group (those not receiving chiropractic care).”

The results demonstrated significant motor-skill improvement among those receiving chiropractic care, leading researchers to suggest that “spinal adjustments may influence motor behavior.” (J Manipul Physiol Ther 2006;29:257-66)

Live Longer

Searching for the fountain of youth?  Look to your local doctor of chiropractic.  Left unchecked, chronic back pain is proven to shorten one’s lifespan.  Over a five-year period, researchers followed approximately 1,500 seniors aged 70 to 85.  Daily back pain was linked to reduced longevity, quality of life and mobility and increased risks for a coronary heart event (Spine 2007;32:2012-18).

Avert Arthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis, occurring when cartilage in joints wears down over time.  OA most commonly affects joints in hands, hips, knees and spine.

Fortunately, research shows that chiropractic care helps reduce OA symptoms.  One study included 252 OA patients with low-back pain.  Researchers randomly assigned subjects to either a chiropractic group who received chiropractic adjustment plus moist heat or a moist-heat only cohort.  Both groups participated in 20 care sessions, over several weeks.

At sessions one, five, 10, 15 and 20, sufferers rated pain, activities of daily living and range of motion (ROM).  The chiropractic group reported greater and more rapid pain reduction and ROM improvement than the moist heat group.  Those under chiropractic care also enjoyed greater improvements in daily living activities in four of the nine areas measured.  (J Manipulative Physiol Ther 2006;29:107-14)

Optimal Health University™ is a professional service of PreventiCare Publishing®. The information and recommendations are appropriate in most instances. They are not, however, a substitute for consultation with a health-care provider such as Dr. Davis. Copyright, 2009.

Dr. Marc Davis adjusts patients at Davis Family Chiropractic, a thriving wellness-oriented office located next to Fred Meyer in Fisher’s Landing. To subscribe to Dr. Davis’ blog “Health Naturally” go to www.davisfamilychiro.com and click on “Blog” for FREE monthly tips and community activities.  To schedule a time to meet with Dr. Davis call (360) 823-2225. Mention “Lacamas Magazine” and “Free Scan” to get a free computerized Back and Neck Scan (regularly $210).

DAVIS FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC, PLLC

“For a Lifetime of Standing Tall!”

2415 SE 165TH Avenue, Suite 103

Vancouver, WA 98683

(360) 823-2225

 

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