Circle Restaurant and Bar in Crown Point will donate half its Jan. 27 proceeds
CROWN POINT Besides fine food and drink, a healthy portion of generosity will be served at Circle Restaurant and Bar on Jan. 27.
Owners John and Ronda Dessauer, who have a philosophy of giving back to the community, will do so again by donating 50 percent of Circle’s proceeds from that day to the Saint Anthony Medical Center Capital Fund Drive.
The drive, which has raised $822,500 since it began in February, has a goal of $4.5 million “to support the latest in health care for Crown Point and to help grow philanthropy in our community,” says Warren Johnson, regional development director of the Sisters of St. Francis Health Services, Northern Indiana Region.
“A generous community resident is matching these and all gifts raised up to $2,250,000,” Johnson adds. It is the first capital fund drive since the Medical Center opened in 1974.
Enhanced services for newly opened Franciscan Point Saint Anthony health complex and a new location for St. Clare Health Clinic, which provides care for uninsured residents in a six-county area, are among those planned. The new clinic is expected to open this year.
The Dessauers, who opened Circle in 2005, also conduct an annual golf outing, proceeds of which benefit the Crown Point Community Foundation, among others.
John Dessauer has traveled to Haiti and donated to The Caring House Project Foundation, to help better the lives of Haitians.
Johnson is grateful to the Dessauers and other community members for the outpouring of support the capital drive has received.
“We are now turning to community businesses and residents for support and are delighted to have the support of the Dessauers’ and Circle Restaurant and Bar in this fund-raiser. It’s a great way for everyone to benefit and have fun in a wonderful local partnership,” Johnson says.
Circle, located at 110 S. Court St., is open 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays and 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.
For more information, call (219) 661-0101.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Patient survives with a little help from her friends
Christmas party fund-raiser to help needy women fight breast cancer
CROWN POINT It may not seem like a lot of money, but to some area women, $855 recently donated to the Breast Care Center at Saint Anthony Medical Center could mean a fortune to their health.
The proceeds were raised at a theme Christmas party, recently hosted by Georgia and Richard Sharpe at their Cedar Lake home, on behalf of their friend, Sherri Ham, of Crown Point. Ham, who has known the Sharpes nearly 20 years, is a breast cancer survivor.
The Sharpes asked attendees of their annual get-together to forgo the usual contributions to their hosts and to instead set their sights on the cancer war. The 50 guests, one of whom recently was laid off from her job, came through, despite the tough economy.
“Because Sherri is going through all this, I asked everyone to bring a pink ornament and an envelope containing a donation on her behalf,” Georgia Sharpe said. “Given the economy, I thought the amount of the donations was great. People who know Sherri love her as much as we do. We all have so much to be grateful for.”
Ham, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in April, says she donated the money to the Breast Cancer Center “because I wanted to keep the money in the community. I have been a Saint Anthony patient all my life.”
The money is earmarked for women who otherwise might not be able to afford early detection.
“Mammograms run about $200 or so, so this money will pay for three or four of them,” Ham says. “Hopefully, this will encourage other people – have a New Year’s Eve party and make it a charity fund-raiser.”
Becky Grove, Breast Care Center manager, said she was honored to accept the donation on the center’s behalf.
“Early detection is key. Many women, like Sherri, tend to put their families first because they can’t afford testing.’’
Grove added Indiana “still is not where it should be’’ as far as the number of women receiving mammograms.
“Women aren’t getting them as much as they are needed. A party like this helps to raise awareness of giving, of sharing a story.” Grove added breast cancer treatment has “come a long way in the last few years.”
Saint Anthony Medical Center is located at 1201 S. Main St. For more information, call (219) 757-6285. A cancer hotline is available at (219) 757-6394.
CROWN POINT It may not seem like a lot of money, but to some area women, $855 recently donated to the Breast Care Center at Saint Anthony Medical Center could mean a fortune to their health.
The proceeds were raised at a theme Christmas party, recently hosted by Georgia and Richard Sharpe at their Cedar Lake home, on behalf of their friend, Sherri Ham, of Crown Point. Ham, who has known the Sharpes nearly 20 years, is a breast cancer survivor.
The Sharpes asked attendees of their annual get-together to forgo the usual contributions to their hosts and to instead set their sights on the cancer war. The 50 guests, one of whom recently was laid off from her job, came through, despite the tough economy.
“Because Sherri is going through all this, I asked everyone to bring a pink ornament and an envelope containing a donation on her behalf,” Georgia Sharpe said. “Given the economy, I thought the amount of the donations was great. People who know Sherri love her as much as we do. We all have so much to be grateful for.”
Ham, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in April, says she donated the money to the Breast Cancer Center “because I wanted to keep the money in the community. I have been a Saint Anthony patient all my life.”
The money is earmarked for women who otherwise might not be able to afford early detection.
“Mammograms run about $200 or so, so this money will pay for three or four of them,” Ham says. “Hopefully, this will encourage other people – have a New Year’s Eve party and make it a charity fund-raiser.”
Becky Grove, Breast Care Center manager, said she was honored to accept the donation on the center’s behalf.
“Early detection is key. Many women, like Sherri, tend to put their families first because they can’t afford testing.’’
Grove added Indiana “still is not where it should be’’ as far as the number of women receiving mammograms.
“Women aren’t getting them as much as they are needed. A party like this helps to raise awareness of giving, of sharing a story.” Grove added breast cancer treatment has “come a long way in the last few years.”
Saint Anthony Medical Center is located at 1201 S. Main St. For more information, call (219) 757-6285. A cancer hotline is available at (219) 757-6394.
Word spreading about Franciscan Point EXPRESSCare
Patient visits up 130 percent since Saint Anthony Medical Center satellite opens in August
CROWN POINT EXPRESSCare is on the fast track of providing quality services for patients at the new Franciscan Point Saint Anthony Health Complex.
EXPRESSCare, which offers immediate care for non-life-threatening cases, has seen a 130 percent increase in daily patient visits since it opened in August as a branch of Saint Anthony Medical Center.
Dr. Daniel Netluch, St. Anthony chief of emergency services, credits “the highly trained physicians and quality of care” for the rise.
“I am pleased with the progress being made, thanks to an awareness campaign,” he says, adding patient satisfaction and word-of-mouth also account for the boost in visits.
“Word-of-mouth accounts for approximately one-third of the referrals to EXPRESSCare. We are seeing repeat patients and many new patients who are being referred by family and friends,” Netluch says.
No appointment is needed at EXPRESSCare, which is staffed by board-certified physicians and treats a variety of ailments, among them flu, colds, fevers, sprains, strains, nausea and lacerations. Among the most common cases being treated are muscular and skeletal injuries.
“Some involve men in their 30s who are participating in recreational basketball leagues,” Netluch says, adding winter weather likewise brings a jump in cases involving falls, fractures, sprains and back discomfort.
EXPRESSCare also treats patients who are unable to get an appointment with their regular doctor. Most insurance plans are accepted.
Saint Anthony physicians and technicians rotate shifts between EXPRESSCare and the Medical Center’s Emergency Department.
“They are proud of the ability to surpass the rest of their competitors in quality patient care and lower overall patient cost,” Netluch says. “In case more urgent care is needed, doctors are able to provide the proper transfer to Saint Anthony Medical Center’s Emergency Department, keeping patient health care as their highest priority.”
Franciscan Point, a $38 million project that occupies 81 acres along U.S. 231, just east of Interstate 65, recently received an Award of Merit for design and workmanship from Midwest Construction, a regional trade publication.
EXPRESSCare hours are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays. For more information, call (219) 662-5700.
CROWN POINT EXPRESSCare is on the fast track of providing quality services for patients at the new Franciscan Point Saint Anthony Health Complex.
EXPRESSCare, which offers immediate care for non-life-threatening cases, has seen a 130 percent increase in daily patient visits since it opened in August as a branch of Saint Anthony Medical Center.
Dr. Daniel Netluch, St. Anthony chief of emergency services, credits “the highly trained physicians and quality of care” for the rise.
“I am pleased with the progress being made, thanks to an awareness campaign,” he says, adding patient satisfaction and word-of-mouth also account for the boost in visits.
“Word-of-mouth accounts for approximately one-third of the referrals to EXPRESSCare. We are seeing repeat patients and many new patients who are being referred by family and friends,” Netluch says.
No appointment is needed at EXPRESSCare, which is staffed by board-certified physicians and treats a variety of ailments, among them flu, colds, fevers, sprains, strains, nausea and lacerations. Among the most common cases being treated are muscular and skeletal injuries.
“Some involve men in their 30s who are participating in recreational basketball leagues,” Netluch says, adding winter weather likewise brings a jump in cases involving falls, fractures, sprains and back discomfort.
EXPRESSCare also treats patients who are unable to get an appointment with their regular doctor. Most insurance plans are accepted.
Saint Anthony physicians and technicians rotate shifts between EXPRESSCare and the Medical Center’s Emergency Department.
“They are proud of the ability to surpass the rest of their competitors in quality patient care and lower overall patient cost,” Netluch says. “In case more urgent care is needed, doctors are able to provide the proper transfer to Saint Anthony Medical Center’s Emergency Department, keeping patient health care as their highest priority.”
Franciscan Point, a $38 million project that occupies 81 acres along U.S. 231, just east of Interstate 65, recently received an Award of Merit for design and workmanship from Midwest Construction, a regional trade publication.
EXPRESSCare hours are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays. For more information, call (219) 662-5700.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Needy families enjoy merrier Christmas
Saint Anthony Medical Center employees donate time and money
CROWN POINT The volunteer spirit of Saint Anthony Medical Center employees doubled this Christmas season, when 22 workers stepped forward to help in a Saint Clare Health Clinic gift program for needy families.
In turn, 47 Saint Clare Christmas Families will enjoy merrier holidays, compared to 39 last year.
Gift and financial donations came from throughout hospital departments. The 22 volunteers prepared the gifts for pick-up by family members this week.
“Every family involved was incredibly moved with the outpouring of care and love each department showed,” said Katie Bulmann, program coordinator for training and development at Saint Anthony.
“They were extremely thankful and wanted us to know how appreciative they were for the gifts.”
Families also received $50 food gift certificates to Strack and Van Til stores through a second annual employee Christmas Wreath Silent Auction that recently raised $2,162, an increase of $868 over last year’s total. That effort was coordinated by Michelle Payne, director of the hospital’s Customer Relations and Satisfaction Department.
Saint Clare Health Clinic, 1000 S. Court St., is a Saint Anthony affiliate that provides services for underinsured and uninsured residents in 46 communities in six Northwest Indiana counties.
For more information, call (219) 757-6272.
Stay in touch while keeping in touch
Saint Anthony Medical Center offers visitors free Internet access
CROWN POINT Saint Anthony Medical Center visitors need not lose touch with cyberspace while they are seeing friends or loved ones at the hospital.
“GuestNet’’ free wireless service may be accessed in designated hospital areas, including the cafeteria, main lobby and waiting areas. Signs soon will be posted at those areas.
Permission is needed to use the service outside of those locations, such as in a patient’s room. Visitors are urged to ask at the front desk for a copy of the terms and conditions of using the system when they arrive.
Guests may bring laptops, PDAs (personal digital assistants), or other Wi Fi- capable devices to browse Web sites, check e-mail, or to perform other basic Internet tasks.
Nader Eskander, Management Information Systems director, said GuestNet was installed in August 2007.
“It’s a big plus to be able to catch up on e-mail or work while visiting the hospital, or to communicate the loved one’s condition to the family electronically,” he said.
However, he reminds visitors that “as much as we are happy to provide the service, our primary concern is patient care.’’
Visitors should not use GuestNet in hallways or clinical areas, because it could interfere with operations that affect quality of care, Eskander said.
GuestNet has been available at Sisters of Saint Francis Health Systems Northern Region hospitals since mid to late 2007. In addition to Saint Anthony Medical Center, the service is available at Saint Margaret Mercy campuses in Hammond and Dyer and at Saint Anthony Memorial in Michigan City.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Give yourself a gift of health
Franciscan EXPRESSCare offers flu shots while they last
CROWN POINT Franciscan Point Saint Anthony Health Complex offers the public an inexpensive gift of health this holiday season.
The Franciscan EXPRESSCare unit, located in the new Franciscan Point complex at 12800 Mississippi Parkway (near the intersection of Interstate 65 and U.S. 231) has more than 100 flu shots available, according to Janet Doms, clinical director of the Saint Anthony Emergency Department.
“It’s still not too late to get one,’’ Doms said. Flu season runs through March and peaks in January and February. The vaccine becomes effective about two weeks after the injection.
Vaccinations are available, at a cost of $20, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays.
Among its services, EXPRESSCare offers treatment by board-certified physicians for flu-like symptoms, colds, sprains, strains, nausea, cuts and minor allergic reactions. Appointments are not needed; walk-ins are welcome. Most insurance plans are accepted.
For more information, call (219) 662-5700.
The flu or not the flu?
The truth behind the seasonal virus that bugs us
CROWN POINT What you don’t know about the influenza virus can hurt you.
And what you think you know might not be so.
Chris Shakula, nurse epidemiologist at Saint Anthony Medical Center for nine years, knows the differences.
Some misnomers, or myths about influenza, include:
- The flu vaccine can give you the virus.
- There is such a thing as stomach flu.
- Just being in a room with an infected person means you’re going to get sick.
- Your pet can give you the flu and vice versa.
- You can’t get the flu from an inanimate object.
“The flu basically is spread by droplets. If someone coughs or sneezes and you are in close range to them, you can pick up the flu,’’ Shakula says, but adds that does not mean that every one in the room is susceptible – if they are careful.
“If that were the case and one kid in a classroom had it, the whole room would get it. And that’s not so. It’s the proximity to the affected person that makes the difference. Also, if you touch an object they have touched and then touch your mucous membranes without washing your hands first, you can get it,” Shakula says.
The virus enters the body through the nose and mouth.
Flu season runs from October through March and so far activity in the U.S. has not been of epidemic proportions, Shakula said. The Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta to date has not projected the possible severity of the virus, which does not peak until January or February.
The flu causes fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, muscle and body aches, headaches, even death in the worst cases. But it is not a stomach ailment, according to Shakula.
“It’s a misnomer to say there is a stomach flu. Nausea and diarrhea are probably caused by an intestinal virus, but not by the flu,’’ she says.
The best ways to prevent catching the bug are to get a vaccination and to wash your hands properly.
It is possible to get the flu, even if you have received a shot, but Shakula says the vaccine is not to blame.
“It takes the vaccination two weeks to be effective, so if you are infected before that time, you can get the flu,” Shakula points out. And while no vaccine is guaranteed 100 percent effective, you have a much better chance of not getting the flu if you get a shot, she adds.
If you get the flu, stay home to avoid infecting others, Shakula urges.
Talk to your doctor if you are unsure of how to treat the illness. If symptoms become severe, seek immediate attention.
HEALTHY ADVICE
If you don’t want the flu:
- Get a flu shot.
- Stay away from infected people.
- Wash your hands properly. Use soap, preferably the antibacterial variety, and warm running water. Lather the hands, rubbing them together vigorously for 15 to 20 seconds, scrubbing the front and back, between the fingers and under the fingernails. Rinse well, drying them with a clean or disposable towel and use a towel to turn off the faucet.
- Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Apply about ½ teaspoon of the product to the palm of a hand. Rub the hands together, covering all surfaces, until they dry. If they are visibly dirty, use soap and water first.
If you get the flu:
- Stay home.
- Rest and drink plenty of liquids.
- Avoid using alcohol or tobacco.
- Use over-the-counter medications to treat symptoms (but do not give aspirin to children or teens who have flu-like symptoms, particularly fever).
- Remember, serious flu complications are more likely in people aged 65 and older, pregnant women, young children and people with certain chronic medical conditions.
- Consult a doctor for the best treatment. Seek immediate care if signs of severe symptoms arise.
Sources: Chris Shakula, nurse epidemiologist, Saint Anthony Medical Center; Centers for Disease Control, Atlanta.
Saint Anthony Medical Center offers doula training
Studies show better results for mothers, families when birth support provided
CROWN POINT Always wanted to be a doula? Now is your chance.Saint Anthony Medical Center is offering training workshops for those interested in becoming a doula – a person who provides support for women and their families during labor -- during sessions scheduled for February, June and October.
Workshops will be conducted by a Doulas of North America International-trained instructor Feb. 5 to 7, June 25 to 27 and Oct. 8 to 10. Cost per session is $400.
Participants are asked to register prior to the training so required reading and 12-hour childbirth classes can be completed.
“Recent studies indicate better outcomes for babies and their mothers; shorter, more comfortable labors, fewer complications and greater maternal satisfaction when a labor support doula is present,’’ said Louise Albrecht-Mallinger, who coordinates the Saint Anthony program.
The hospital’s volunteer doula program has supported more than 900 women and families since its inception about seven years ago, she added.
For more information on workshops, contact Albrecht-Mallinger at (219) 757-5754. For more information on DONA International, visit www.dona.org.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
SSFHS Northern Indiana Region hospitals net national occ med recognition
Local WorkingWell program first in Indiana to achieve NAOHP certification
MICHIGAN CITY The Occupational Health program of Sisters of St. Francis Health Services Northern Indiana Region reached a milestone recently when it became the first in the state to achieve a notable national certification.
The California-based National Association of Occupational Health Professions awarded WorkingWell, SSFHS’s Northern Indiana Region program, a 97.1 percent compliance rating, the second-highest achieved since the certification process began in October 2005. The only score higher since that time is 98 percent.
“Of all the programs reviewed, only six have achieved three-year certification, and WorkingWell is the second program to achieve the 97 percent compliance to standard rating,’’ said Donna Lee Gardner, NAOHP reviewer, adding WorkingWell is the first Indiana program to receive the Quality Certification Award.
Gardner conducted a two-day survey of the program’s main site at Saint Anthony Memorial Hospital in Michigan City. The certification also includes WorkingWell locations in Crown Point, Valparaiso, Hammond and Munster.
Gardner called the WorkingWell effort, “one of the most comprehensive I have seen nationally.’’
“The program’s total health management focus is the health care management system of the future for business and industry. WorkingWell is exceptional in all areas,’’ Gardner said.
Certification is based on compliance scores in categories of Administration and Organization, Operational Framework, Occupational Health Professional Staffing Resources, Quality Management, Product Lines, Sales and Marketing.
Gene Diamond, SSFHS Northern Region CEO since 2004, established WorkingWell region-wide in 2005.
“It’s wonderful. I am happy we achieved this certification. We have an excellent program that shows we can meet needs as they are expected to be met. The score reflects the high level of preparation invested in this effort,’’ Diamond said.
Diamond credits Tim Ross, regional director of Occupational/Employee health, who is based at Saint Anthony Memorial, for the high marks on the WorkingWell report card.
“Tim is responsible for regionalizing the program. I was happy to encourage him to pursue certification,’’ Diamond said.
Ross, who has been with the program since its inception, said he requested the review because “we were confident enough to be judged.’’
“It solidified that we’re providing quality policies and procedures at national-standard levels. It sets us apart from the competition. It can help us recruit the highest-quality providers and staff.’’
Ross calls Mike Polich, WorkingWell regional manager/nurse practitioner, the key to achieving the certification.
“A lot of organizational work was needed in the fashion they were looking for,’’ Ross said. “Mike deserves the credit for that.’’
Polich, who also is based at Saint Anthony Memorial and has been with WorkingWell since its inception, said the effort’s success resulted from teamwork.
“With all the team working together, we were able to put forth our strengths into this project and achieve the outcome of Outstanding Achievement with our certification,’’ Polich said.
WorkingWell serves Northwest Indiana, southeast Chicago area and southwest Michigan area employers, offering services ranging from wellness and education to rehabilitation.
In addition to Saint Anthony Memorial, the Northern Indiana Region includes Saint Margaret Mercy Healthcare Centers in Hammond and Dyer; Saint Anthony Medical Center in Crown Point and Franciscan Physicians Hospital LLC, in Munster.
For more information on WorkingWell, visit its Web site: www.Workingwellsite.org.
ABOUT THE CERTIFICATION
The National Association of Occupational Health Professionals, which has more than 2,200 members, was established in June 1990 to provide a method for the exchange of information associated with administration of provider-based occupational health programs.
In 2005, the NAOHP board voted to offer a voluntary program certification process as a way for occupational health programs and freestanding medicine practices to evaluate their performance in comparison to national standards. The certification program was implemented in 2006.
Programs that meet the highest standards receive recognition that may be used as a marketing tool with employers, insurers, managed care organizations and networks.
Compliance is based on a weighted score. Applicants receive a three-year certification, a one-year certification, or a statement of noncompliance. Areas judged include Administration and Organization, Operational Framework, Occupational Health Professional Staffing Resources, Quality Management, Product Lines, Sales and Marketing.
Monday, December 15, 2008
Go Ahead and Eat That Drumstick - But Use Your Head
The holiday season need not be a time to sacrifice your favorite foods
CROWN POINT You can overindulge at the dinner table during the holidays and not end up with a belly that shakes like a bowlful of jelly – if you are willing to play by the rules.Dorothy Lindell calls them the “90-10’’ and “1-10’’ rules.
“If you spend your calories within your budget 90 percent of the time, you can splurge the other 10 percent of the time and not pay the price,’’ says Lindell, chief clinical dietitian at Saint Anthony Medical Center.
The caloric budget, she says, should be likened to a bank account.
“You wouldn’t withdraw more money than you have in your savings account, so why spend your calorie budget on what you can’t afford? Look at your price tag of calories. People get obese because they don’t balance their budget.’’
Lindell, who has been a dietitian about 30 years, the last 10 in her current position, recommends visiting the Calorie King Web site (www.calorieking.com) to determine daily limits – and then to sticking to them.
She also suggests the Mayo Clinic site (www.mayoclinic.com) as a source for healthy holiday food and beverage suggestions.
The average American gains seven to 11 pounds from Thanksgiving through Easter, Lindell says.
“I feel badly for people who come in before Halloween to lose weight. It is difficult. There’s the Halloween candy, then Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s, the Super Bowl, then Easter. People don’t start eating better until March and April,’’ Lindell says. The holidays aren’t the only cause of the temptation to overeat. Some of it is induced by a craving for sunlight that can result in Seasonal Affective Disorder; some of it is caused by stress.
“The human being is an animal that craves carbohydrates. They are needed for you to think, to work … During winter, with the shorter days, activity is lower for a huge portion of people. The lack of sunlight causes you to become a little sloppy. The craving for snacks can become addictive,’’ Lindell says.
That’s where the 1-10 rule comes in.
“A feeling of 1 in your stomach means you’re starving, while 10 means you’re stuffed. Stop eating when you’re at a 5 or a 6. Listen for the quiet, small voice that says, ‘I’ve had enough,’ ” Lindell suggests.
Stress also can cause cravings for sweets – and worse.
“We need stress to help us make deadlines, to get things done. But, stress is meant to be short-term. Too much of it can kill you.’’
Exercise and time off are antidotes to pressure.
“Get on the treadmill; take a vacation. We need to get rid of excess stress chemicals,’’ Lindell says. Lindell also points out that starving yourself all day so you can gorge yourself at a holiday meal is a recipe for disaster.
“I call it the Chicago-rush-hour effect – you’re jammed up with food, but it isn’t going anywhere. After a huge meal, calories aren’t burned fast enough. It is hard on the heart and liver. You can clog your arteries and cause obesity, if you eat too much at once.’’ Lindell’s advice is to fuel up before the stomach feels empty.
“Have a nutritional snack before the get-together -- don’t go if your craving is at a 2. Once there, look over the buffet. Have one or two things you enjoy and leave the rest behind.’’She also recommends drinking an 8-ounce glass of water before the party “so you don’t gulp down the cocktails’’ and to “have a big glass of water before each drink.’’
“The party is not just about food and drink; it’s about conversation and interaction.’’Lindell believes resolving to wait until “after the holidays’’ to begin healthier habits is a mistake.
“Don’t wait until January to exercise. Play outside a couple of evenings a week. Ideally, you should exercise 30 minutes a day, five days a week, with a combination of cardio (three days) and resistance (two days),’’ she says.
“There also are Sit and Be Fit programs for people who can’t get around well. All exercise burns calories.’’
Being smart in mind and body and not subscribing to diet fads are other keys to health success, Lindell says.
“Diets don’t work. You need a lifestyle of eating healthy and regular exercise. It’s what you do 90 percent of the time that counts. The other 10 percent doesn’t matter. You can still enjoy the holidays – maybe you won’t lose weight, but you won’t gain it, either.’’
CROWN POINT You can overindulge at the dinner table during the holidays and not end up with a belly that shakes like a bowlful of jelly – if you are willing to play by the rules.Dorothy Lindell calls them the “90-10’’ and “1-10’’ rules.
“If you spend your calories within your budget 90 percent of the time, you can splurge the other 10 percent of the time and not pay the price,’’ says Lindell, chief clinical dietitian at Saint Anthony Medical Center.
The caloric budget, she says, should be likened to a bank account.
“You wouldn’t withdraw more money than you have in your savings account, so why spend your calorie budget on what you can’t afford? Look at your price tag of calories. People get obese because they don’t balance their budget.’’
Lindell, who has been a dietitian about 30 years, the last 10 in her current position, recommends visiting the Calorie King Web site (www.calorieking.com) to determine daily limits – and then to sticking to them.
She also suggests the Mayo Clinic site (www.mayoclinic.com) as a source for healthy holiday food and beverage suggestions.
The average American gains seven to 11 pounds from Thanksgiving through Easter, Lindell says.
“I feel badly for people who come in before Halloween to lose weight. It is difficult. There’s the Halloween candy, then Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s, the Super Bowl, then Easter. People don’t start eating better until March and April,’’ Lindell says. The holidays aren’t the only cause of the temptation to overeat. Some of it is induced by a craving for sunlight that can result in Seasonal Affective Disorder; some of it is caused by stress.
“The human being is an animal that craves carbohydrates. They are needed for you to think, to work … During winter, with the shorter days, activity is lower for a huge portion of people. The lack of sunlight causes you to become a little sloppy. The craving for snacks can become addictive,’’ Lindell says.
That’s where the 1-10 rule comes in.
“A feeling of 1 in your stomach means you’re starving, while 10 means you’re stuffed. Stop eating when you’re at a 5 or a 6. Listen for the quiet, small voice that says, ‘I’ve had enough,’ ” Lindell suggests.
Stress also can cause cravings for sweets – and worse.
“We need stress to help us make deadlines, to get things done. But, stress is meant to be short-term. Too much of it can kill you.’’
Exercise and time off are antidotes to pressure.
“Get on the treadmill; take a vacation. We need to get rid of excess stress chemicals,’’ Lindell says. Lindell also points out that starving yourself all day so you can gorge yourself at a holiday meal is a recipe for disaster.
“I call it the Chicago-rush-hour effect – you’re jammed up with food, but it isn’t going anywhere. After a huge meal, calories aren’t burned fast enough. It is hard on the heart and liver. You can clog your arteries and cause obesity, if you eat too much at once.’’ Lindell’s advice is to fuel up before the stomach feels empty.
“Have a nutritional snack before the get-together -- don’t go if your craving is at a 2. Once there, look over the buffet. Have one or two things you enjoy and leave the rest behind.’’She also recommends drinking an 8-ounce glass of water before the party “so you don’t gulp down the cocktails’’ and to “have a big glass of water before each drink.’’
“The party is not just about food and drink; it’s about conversation and interaction.’’Lindell believes resolving to wait until “after the holidays’’ to begin healthier habits is a mistake.
“Don’t wait until January to exercise. Play outside a couple of evenings a week. Ideally, you should exercise 30 minutes a day, five days a week, with a combination of cardio (three days) and resistance (two days),’’ she says.
“There also are Sit and Be Fit programs for people who can’t get around well. All exercise burns calories.’’
Being smart in mind and body and not subscribing to diet fads are other keys to health success, Lindell says.
“Diets don’t work. You need a lifestyle of eating healthy and regular exercise. It’s what you do 90 percent of the time that counts. The other 10 percent doesn’t matter. You can still enjoy the holidays – maybe you won’t lose weight, but you won’t gain it, either.’’
Franciscan Point gets good look from construction publication
New St. Anthony Health Complex receives award of merit
CROWN POINT Franciscan Point Saint Anthony Health Complex has been commended for excellence in workmanship and design by Midwest Construction, a regional trade publication, in an annual contest that recognizes the best in building design in a four-state area.
An Award of Merit in the Health Care (Large Projects) category went to the 86,000-square-foot outpatient health complex, which opened in August on 81 acres near Interstate 65 and U.S. 231. The $38 million project was designed by Design Organization, which has offices in Chicago and in Valparaiso.
“I am elated that this award has been granted,’’ said David Ruskowski, St. Anthony Medical Center president. “We had an exceptional design team that produced a visually appealing, highly functional facility that houses a variety of outpatient services, some of which are very unique to the Northwest Indiana, Chicagoland area.’’
Franciscan Point offers state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging, urgent care, a Sports Medicine Institute, physical, occupational and speech therapy and other specialty services.
A panel of experts judged 128 projects in Indiana, Wisconsin, Illinois and Missouri on criteria that included quality, project management, teamwork and service. The 36 winners are featured in the McGraw-Hill publication’s December issue and are scheduled to be honored at an awards luncheon in Chicago.
Project-of-the-year winners will be entered in the National Best of 2008 competition and judged against those from other regions.
For more information on Franciscan Point, call (219) 738-2100 or visit www.stanthonymedicalcenter.com.
CROWN POINT Franciscan Point Saint Anthony Health Complex has been commended for excellence in workmanship and design by Midwest Construction, a regional trade publication, in an annual contest that recognizes the best in building design in a four-state area.
An Award of Merit in the Health Care (Large Projects) category went to the 86,000-square-foot outpatient health complex, which opened in August on 81 acres near Interstate 65 and U.S. 231. The $38 million project was designed by Design Organization, which has offices in Chicago and in Valparaiso.
“I am elated that this award has been granted,’’ said David Ruskowski, St. Anthony Medical Center president. “We had an exceptional design team that produced a visually appealing, highly functional facility that houses a variety of outpatient services, some of which are very unique to the Northwest Indiana, Chicagoland area.’’
Franciscan Point offers state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging, urgent care, a Sports Medicine Institute, physical, occupational and speech therapy and other specialty services.
A panel of experts judged 128 projects in Indiana, Wisconsin, Illinois and Missouri on criteria that included quality, project management, teamwork and service. The 36 winners are featured in the McGraw-Hill publication’s December issue and are scheduled to be honored at an awards luncheon in Chicago.
Project-of-the-year winners will be entered in the National Best of 2008 competition and judged against those from other regions.
For more information on Franciscan Point, call (219) 738-2100 or visit www.stanthonymedicalcenter.com.
Friday, December 12, 2008
Be a Santa’s helper year-round
Saint Anthony Medical Center offers you the chance to give back to the community
CROWN POINT – Saint Anthony Medical Center's Auxiliary is seeking volunteers to join its organization and to help serve its meaningful missions.
Auxiliary volunteers may assist during daytime hours in a variety of ways: in the Gift Shop; escorting patients for Surgical Waiting, Admitting and the Front Desk; as well as supporting departments with office and clerical help.
The Gift Shop is seeking volunteers with experience using cash registers, pricing, opening boxes and sorting merchandise.
Escorts must be able to walk distances to push wheelchairs containing patients.
Office and clerical volunteers will type, file and work with word processors.
Volunteer receptionists will work with computers, answer telephones and greet visitors and staff.
For more information, contact Doris Paluszak, president of the St. Anthony Medical Center Auxiliary, at (219) 757-6347.
Saint Anthony Medical Center is located at 1201 Main St.
CROWN POINT – Saint Anthony Medical Center's Auxiliary is seeking volunteers to join its organization and to help serve its meaningful missions.
Auxiliary volunteers may assist during daytime hours in a variety of ways: in the Gift Shop; escorting patients for Surgical Waiting, Admitting and the Front Desk; as well as supporting departments with office and clerical help.
The Gift Shop is seeking volunteers with experience using cash registers, pricing, opening boxes and sorting merchandise.
Escorts must be able to walk distances to push wheelchairs containing patients.
Office and clerical volunteers will type, file and work with word processors.
Volunteer receptionists will work with computers, answer telephones and greet visitors and staff.
For more information, contact Doris Paluszak, president of the St. Anthony Medical Center Auxiliary, at (219) 757-6347.
Saint Anthony Medical Center is located at 1201 Main St.
Economy slowdown doesn’t stop generosity of St. Anthony employees
Christmas Wreath auction nets food certificates for less-fortunate families
CROWN POINT The holiday spirit is alive and growing at Saint Anthony Medical Center and needy families are reaping the benefits.
A second annual Christmas Wreath Silent Auction recently raised $2,162, an increase of $868 over last year’s effort. The money will provide $50 Strack and Van Til food gift certificates to 46 St. Clare Health Clinic Christmas families. St. Clare Health Clinic is a hospital agency that provides services to uninsured and underinsured Lake County residents.
The effort was coordinated by Michelle Payne, director of the St. Anthony Customer Relations and Satisfaction Department. She purchased 33 wreaths that in turn were decorated by employees of various departments and then bid for auction. Several departments decorated multiple wreaths, Payne said.
The food certificates will be a bonus to the families, who will receive other holiday help through the program.
“It makes me proud to be a member of this team. Even though we are in trying economic times, our staff continues to open its hearts and wallets to help those less fortunate,’’ Payne said.
St. Clare Health Clinic is located at 1000 S. Court St. For more information, call (219) 757-6272.
CROWN POINT The holiday spirit is alive and growing at Saint Anthony Medical Center and needy families are reaping the benefits.
A second annual Christmas Wreath Silent Auction recently raised $2,162, an increase of $868 over last year’s effort. The money will provide $50 Strack and Van Til food gift certificates to 46 St. Clare Health Clinic Christmas families. St. Clare Health Clinic is a hospital agency that provides services to uninsured and underinsured Lake County residents.
The effort was coordinated by Michelle Payne, director of the St. Anthony Customer Relations and Satisfaction Department. She purchased 33 wreaths that in turn were decorated by employees of various departments and then bid for auction. Several departments decorated multiple wreaths, Payne said.
The food certificates will be a bonus to the families, who will receive other holiday help through the program.
“It makes me proud to be a member of this team. Even though we are in trying economic times, our staff continues to open its hearts and wallets to help those less fortunate,’’ Payne said.
St. Clare Health Clinic is located at 1000 S. Court St. For more information, call (219) 757-6272.
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