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Started with a Dream … and a Cocoa Bean

By Seth Sjostrom

Choffy.

Jason Vanderhoven awoke one morning following a vivid dream. He wasn’t being chased by a serial killer, he hadn’t inserted himself into a spy thriller, he wasn’t even waking in a start from that horrible falling kind of dream. Nope. He dreamt of cocoa beans. Roasted cocoa beans. At the time, he wasn’t entirely sure why.

Perhaps his subconscious had worked its way through the complex networks of his REM state brain. As an athlete training for the Olympics (Jason was highly competitive in the luge), he and his compatriots were well-versed and disciplined in nutrition. Yet, he was taken aback by how many of his fellow athletes downed caffeine-laden drinks before an event. This flew in the face what they had been taught of performance nutrition.

Coffey

 

As he mused about his dream, Jason couldn’t help but wonder if the concoction would actually work. His initial attempts, sheet pans of cocoa beans roasted in his oven, produced less than ideal results. Handing a cup of his brew to his father-in-law, he waited eagerly for a response. After a few sips, a glance across a mug was followed with, “Hmmm. You’ve made a bad cup of coffee.” Undaunted, Jason forged ahead with tweaks and trials. Three years later, he arrived at the selection, roast and grind of a delicious cup of Choffy. While the Aztecs and Samoans have Jason beat by a millennia, Choffy is certainly a ground-breaking invention as the modern roasted coffee bean drink.

What does Choffy taste like? When you have your first sip, you need to exorcise any pre-conceptions of what you think it might taste like in your head. It is not hot cocoa, it is not coffee. It is a slightly bitter, slightly creamy, genuinely satisfying flavor that hits upon a unique combination of taste buds. It satisfies the bit of sweet-tooth as well as the warm, invigorating yearn for coffee.

Why Choffy at all? First, the cocoa bean (correctly cacoa) has tremendous potential health benefits with very few of coffee’s detriments. Let’s start with what it does have. The cocoa bean has been revered for its high antioxidant content. In fact, a serving of Choffy has nearly the antioxidant power of two cups of superfood blueberries. Cocoa is packed with theobromine (similar, yet different than chemical cousin caffeine), a mild stimulant that increases heartbeat while acting as a vasodilator, actually reducing blood pressure. This buys you a boost without the crash.

Almost as important as what cocoa beans have in them is what they don’t. A cup of Choffy has less caffeine than a cup of decaf coffee. Courtesy of its other properties, you get the lift without the addiction and jitters of coffee. Choffy comes with only 20 calories and 3 carbs, with the reduced need for creamer (if you are so inclined), your diet is going to mind less too. In fact, Choffy is safe for children to drink, pregnant women and diabetics alike.

I love a cup of coffee, but I have been perplexed with the split reports on the praises and evils of my beloved cup of joe. For every positive article, I read a negative. With Choffy, there aren’t the confounding  reservations. Choffy is 100% premium cocoa bean. That’s it. Have yours straight up or with a splash of vanilla creamer (a little goes along way here, not like your old latte!)

How do you make this yummy (is it a stretch to call it health food) drink? The folks at Choffy recommend French press style. This simple process extracts the perfect amount of cacoa goodness in your drink. No press in your cabinet, no worries. You can use a regular drip coffee maker too. Serve it cold or hot, on its own or with a splash of cream.

Choffy is based right here in Vancouver. Inventer Jason Vanderhoven called up longtime friend Jason Sherwood to help develop and market Choffy, while Jason S’s wife, Andi, implemented the distribution strategy. A direct selling guru, Andi has enlisted a small army of Choffy lovers to not only distribute Choffy to consumers and independent businesses, but to create a viable business for their families. As Jason S. says, “Choffy’s purpose is to champion healthy living – beyond the product, but to impact life overall for families.” Utilizing independent distributors allows them to nurture a Choffy family that likes to share “Try this great tasting, healthy drink” to the world.

While a local phenomenon, Choffy has found success nationwide, being highlighted on the Dr. Oz show and in several food and health publications. Haven’t tried Choffy yet? It is worth finding. I am nearly a coffee to Choffy convert myself. Love it already? Become a distributor and make an extra few bucks a month for your family.

Choffy is located in Hazel Dell. You can get more information at www.drinkchoffy.com

About the contributor: Seth Sjostrom is  local resident and author of the thriller Blood in the Snow and holiday title Finding Christmas. Seth is also co-producer of children’s magazine Kids Ink NW. For more information on Seth or his books, visit www.wolfprintpublishing.com.
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Why do I Need Chiropractic Care if I am Not in Pain?

Presented by Marc Davis, DC

Many people consider visiting a chiropractor only after suffering years of unnecessary pain.  However, Dr. Davis knows that focusing on prevention is key to long- term well-being.  That means adopting a proactive approach to health.  Just as you schedule regular dental cleanings to prevent tooth and gum decay, it’s essential to arrange consistent chiropractic checkups to stave off spinal decay and related ailments.

What is chiropractic preventive wellness care?

Referred to as proactive care, spinal hygiene, maintenance care, preventive care, wellness or preventive wellness care, this revolutionary chiropractic program rests on the philosophy that long-term well-being stems from eradicating underlying causes of future conditions- stopping them before they start.

Who tries Chiropractic preventive care?

Dr. Davis finds that patients embark on wellness care programs in one of two circumstances. 

Today’s savvy health-care consumers are enlightened about the benefits of preventive care and the dangers of painkillers and other medication.  The health-care tide is turning as many individuals shift their attitude about health care from one of “damage control” to one centering on prevention.  This renaissance in the way we regard health care has sparked a growing number of forward-thinking, pain-free people to seek out chiropractic wellness care.

A second group of people discover the benefits of wellness care after receiving chiropractic care for pain relief.  When their pain subsides, they transition into a wellness care plan.

Why should I continue chiropractic care after my injury is resolved?

Not only is spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) effective, but ongoing maintenance care results in better long-term outcomes.  These findings are from a new study published in the journal Spine.

The prospective, blinded, placebo-controlled study tracked 60 patients, with chronic, nonspecific low-back pain lasting at least six months.

According to the article, patients “were randomized to receive either (1) 12 treatments of sham SMT over a 1 month period, (2) 12 treatments, consisting of SMT over a 1 month period, but no treatments for the subsequent 9 months, or (3) 12 treatments over a 1 month period, along with “maintenance spinal manipulation” every 2 weeks for the following 9 months.  To determine any difference among therapies, we measured pain and disability scores, generic health status, and back-specific patient satisfaction at baseline and at 1-, 4-, 7-, and 10-month intervals.”

Results revealed that “patients in second and third groups experienced significantly lower pain and disability scores than first group at the end of 1 month period.  However, only the third group that was given spinal manipulations (SM) during the follow up period showed more improvement in pain and disability scores at the 10 month evaluation.”

The study’s authors conclude: “SMT is effective for the treatment of chronic nonspecific LBP.  To obtain long-term benefit, this study suggests maintenance SM after the initial intensive manipulative therapy.” (Spine 2011;36:1427-37.)

What happens during a wellness care visit?

A preventive chiropractic checkup typically includes a posture analysis and a spinal examination to detect areas in the spine where movement is restricted or spinal bones (vertebrae) are slightly out of place.

These dysfunctional spinal segments are called vertebral subluxations.  Dr.  Davis corrects these areas with gentle and effective maneuvers called chiropractic adjustments (also known as spinal manipulative therapy or SMT).

Because wellness visits are focused on prevention rather than pain relief, the doctor takes time to educate patients about factors influencing long-term disease prevention, with a holistic-whole person-emphasis.  Therefore, this visit incorporates late-breaking research information on topics like ergonomics, nutrition, stress reduction, the side effects of medication, environmental toxins, exercise and how emotional outlook affects the body.  The goal is to identify and remove any risk factors before they trigger disease.

Why should I schedule a chiropractic checkup when I’m not in pain?

Symptoms are not the “early warning signs” many individuals consider them to be.

Symptoms like pain or restricted movement usually do not appear until late in a disease process – often when it is too late for the malady to be reversed.

By maintaining a subluxation free spine, preventive checkups correct the underlying trigger of conditions like back pain, headaches, carpal tunnel syndrome and jaw pain.

Chiropractic wellness care also hold more sinister maladies at bay.  For instance, scientific studies show that unrestricted joints have better range of motion – making them less likely to be depleted of joint fluid and cartilage.  By keeping joints mobile, chiropractic helps prevent conditions like osteoarthritis before the advent of joint degeneration – and long before symptoms emerge.

It’s especially important to ward off arthritis before pain appears, because the severity of degeneration to the spine is not necessarily associated with pain.  In one study, 180 patients with neck pain completed questionnaires and a disability assessment.  They also underwent X-ray imaging to determine the extent of degeneration in the spine of their necks (cervical spines).

Results revealed no statistically significant difference in pain severity or disability between the patients with–and without—cervical degeneration.

“According to the findings, the number of levels of cervical degeneration and the severity of degeneration in the discs [and joint of the spine] are not related to the levels of pain and disability.” (Spine 2003;27:129-33.)

I have heard that chiropractic care may prevent problems not directly related to the spine.  Is that true?

Yes.  Exciting new scientific evidence indicates that people who follow a chiropractic wellness plan enjoy a better overall quality of life.  Wellness care patients often report a reduced occurrence of colds, allergies and other ailments.  Many professional athletes adhere to a chiropractic preventive care program because they say it enhances their performance.  Bolstered energy, sharpened mental functioning, decreased fatigue, more restful sleep and diminished stress are other benefits mentioned by preventive care patients.

And, research indicates that chiropractic wellness care may prevent a myriad of diseases not typically related to the spine.  These include breathing problems, hypertension, and multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, hearing problems, infertility, intestinal disorders, asthma, ear infections and infantile colic.  And that’s just for starters!

Is wellness care expensive?

As with all aspects of health, the old adage that “a stitch in time saves nine” applies to chiropractic care.  Savvy health-care consumers know that recurring chiropractic checkups ward off expensive and disabling conditions down the road.

By keeping you free of pain and disability, wellness care eliminates the need for costly medication and surgery, saving you money in the long run.

While health is priceless, we understand that cost is a concern for some.  This chiropractic office works with patients to develop creative, affordable individual and family payment plans to fit any budget.  Before assuming that your family cannot manage the expense of wellness care, please ask us about these opportunities – you’ll be surprised how reasonable they are!

How frequent are regular wellness checkups?

The frequency of preventative checkups depends on a host of factors.  Only your doctor of chiropractic can determine the optimal incidence for your wellness care visits.

At what point should I talk to the doctor about wellness care options?

It is never too early to start planning for preventive care.  Even if you are still under a pain management care plan, ask the doctor today about when you can transition to a wellness care plan, and what types of programs are available.

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, 2012.

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 “LacamasMagazine” and “Free Scan” to get your free computerized Back and Neck Scan (regularly $210).

 

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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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