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SPECIAL REPORT - HEALTHCARE IN KITSAP
Some healthy food for thought about dieting
By Linda Thomson |
You’ve made the New Year’s resolution — again. You know the one. You’re finally going to lose that excess weight. But what’s the best program to follow?
Before beginning, Lola O’Rourke, a registered dietician living on Bainbridge Island, recommends you make sure you’re ready to make changes in your life. This is a serious, lifelong commitment... (Full Article)
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SPECIAL REPORT - HEALTHCARE IN KITSAP
Changes at Bainbridge
Island’s Gym At The Pavilion
By Dr. Monique West |
| The Gym at the Pavilion is Bainbridge Island’s premier fitness facility and includes cutting edge equipment, a professionally trained fitness staff, sauna and spa facilities and amenities never before offered on Bainbridge... (Full Article) |
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SPECIAL REPORT - HEALTHCARE IN KITSAP
Health care costs: No relief in sight
By Rodika Tollefson |
| The dramatic increase in health care costs over the last few years is obvious, but industry analysts don’t expect it to get better any time soon. Health care in the United States is estimated to cost more than $3 trillion by year 2012, more than double the $1.4 trillion cost of 2001, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation... (Full Article) |
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SPECIAL REPORT - HEALTHCARE IN KITSAP
Virtual colonoscopy:
A good tool but not equal to true colonoscopy
By Johnny B Green, MD, FACS, FASCRS |
| There have been many recent reports about virtual colonoscopy testing to prevent colon cancer. These reports have stressed that virtual colonoscopy (more accurately called CT colonography) is non-invasive and “as good as” colonoscopy at finding large polyps. Both of these claims are essentially true but gloss over the benefits of colonoscopy over CT colonography... (Full Article) |
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SPECIAL REPORT - HEALTHCARE IN KITSAP
Harrison Home Health scores
above average in Medicare rating system |
| Harrison Home Health scored above state and national averages in Home Health Compare, a new federal government rating system for home health agencies, published recently. The good news comes on the heels of a deficiency-free Medicare survey conducted in the fall by the Washington State Department of Health... (Full Article) |
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SPECIAL REPORT - HEALTHCARE IN KITSAP
Turning SAD around in wintertime
By Temple A. Stark |
Winter here is a dark time — for some people more than others.
The reason is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a diagnosed condition relating to a lack of sunshine and a resulting depleted serotonin level.
“For many people SAD is a seriously disabling illness, preventing them from functioning normally without continuous medical treatment,” says a report from the National Organization for Seasonal Affective Disorder. “For others, it is a milder condition, causing discomfort, referred to as sub-syndromal SAD or winter blues... (Full Article)
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SPECIAL REPORT - HEALTHCARE IN KITSAP
Harrison offering support groups
for variety of causes |
| • Better Breathers - Sponsored by the American Lung Association of Washington and Harrison Hospital, this group meets monthly to discuss medication, coping, insurance, environmental factors, and other topics related to chronic respiratory disease. Sessions are open to all. Third Tuesday of each month, 1:30 p.m. Kitsap Regional Library on Sylvan Way in East Bremerton. Contact Eric Anderson: 360-792-6686... (Full Article) |
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SPECIAL REPORT - HEALTHCARE IN KITSAP
To stress or not to stress… it’s not an option
By Rodika Tollefson |
| Your muscles are so tense, it would take an army of massage therapists to work them out. You have a headache the size of Texas; you’re forgetting to breathe, and just so you feel better you have a major deadline, the boss has asked about his reports for the fifth time in an hour, and your son has troubles at school... (Full Article) |
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SPECIAL REPORT - HEALTHCARE IN KITSAP
New Web site addresses healthcare picture |
A new web site launched recently by a coalition of representative groups for 12 million employers with 80 million workers, coalesces the entire debate on America’s healthcare crisis.
Nearly six of every 10 Americans without healthcare come from families where someone either owns or works for a small business. The skyrocketing costs of providing healthcare for employees is the No. 1 problem facing small-business owners across the nation... (Full Article)
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SPECIAL REPORT - HEALTHCARE IN KITSAP
How to choose the right health club for you
By Dr. Monique West |
| As the New Year rapidly approaches, so does the rush for Americans to find and join a gym that fits their needs. Studies done by the International Health, Racquet & Sports club Association (IHRSA) show that the month of January is the most popular month for consumers to join a gym; it is, of course, the time of year when New Year’s resolutions are made... (Full Article) |
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SPECIAL REPORT - HEALTHCARE IN KITSAP
Knee brace puts retired Navy senior
back on his feet |
| His first day on the ski slopes for the season, Retired Navy Senior Chief Henry Nichols, a Belfair resident, had just started downhill when the mountain challenged him to a brawl. It was Christmas day and the collision of wills happened so fast that when Nichols fell he heard a popping sound that had nothing to do with either the snow-covered scenery or heavy-laden trees... (Full Article) |
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SPECIAL REPORT - HEALTHCARE IN KITSAP
New, non-surgical process offers great vision
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| From “I left my glasses on the bus” to “I dropped a contact in the cafeteria,” you’ve heard them all as a parent. As an adult, admit it, you’re sick and tired of carrying your glasses everywhere you go and wearing contacts on all day wears on you as well. Not to mention what a paid it is when you break your frames, scratch your lenses, or lose a contact. Day in and day out, doesn’t it just seem like glasses and daytime contacts are becoming more of a problem... (Full Article) |
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SPECIAL REPORT - HEALTHCARE IN KITSAP
Over-the-counter medicines eligible
under FSA’s |
| The IRS and the Treasury Department announced that over-the-counter drugs can now be paid for with pre-tax dollars through health care flexible spending accounts... (Full Article) |
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SPECIAL REPORT - HEALTHCARE IN KITSAP
Top 10 fitness trends for 2004 |
Fitness buffs and couch potatoes alike may soon be getting more bang for their buck when it comes to exercise.
Experts predict “faster-quicker” workouts and exercise programs that incorporate mind and body techniques will be among the top fitness trends in 2004. Together with an increasing focus on functional fitness, researchers say these trends will help busy Americans squeeze more exercise into a shorter time period and eliminate excuses like “I don’t have time to exercise... (Full Article)
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SPECIAL REPORT - HEALTHCARE IN KITSAP
Chest pain a warning sign of heart problems |
| Don’t let your first warning be your last. If you have any of these symptoms, call 911 immediately. They could be the warning sign of a heart attack... (Full Article) |
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Studio Mandala picks up the “PACE” |
As of Dec. 15, Studio Mandala, located on Bainbridge Island, will expand its offerings and adding PACE – a 30 – minute conditioning circuit for women.
The PACE program offers a non-intimidating, supportive environment where the busy woman can efficiently meet her exercise goals as it tailors the workout to the individual. The machines have adjustable resistance settings and consist of 16 aerobic and strengthening stations arranged to promote social interaction and encouragement.
Studio Mandala also offers a range of movement classes including Nia, Fitball, Belly Dance, Partner Dance and Pilates Mat classes.
Studio Mandala can be reached at (206) 842-0622.
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Harrison’s sleep support group AWAKE is free |
If you have trouble sleeping, you’re in good company. Over 40 million Americans (1 in 7!) don’t get a good night’s sleep. At the same time, few may realize that the problem is jeopardizing their health.
Sleep deprivation has been linked to careless driving, poor decision-making, depressed immune systems, heart problems and even obesity.
Harrison’s sleep support group, AWAKE, is free and open to the public. The meetings take place from 7 to 9 p.m. on the third Thursday every third month at the Harrison Hospital Annex, located at Sheridan Village on Lebo Blvd., one block west of the main hospital in East Bremerton. For information, call (360) 792-6812.
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SPECIAL REPORT - EXECUTIVE GIFT GIVING
Sweets for the Sweet
are always a Christmas treat
By Lora-Jean Piper |
| Edible holiday treats not only provide a way to say thank you, they provide a taste of heaven. Their mere presence is enough to tempt most people. Combine that with the elegance of a rich bourbon ball, hand dipped cookies, delicate truffles, or almond filled stolen, and you have a gift fit for any business acquaintance. Kitsap County has an abundance of businesses catering to those in search of fine, consumable gifts... (Full Article) |
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SPECIAL REPORT - EXECUTIVE GIFT GIVING
You can find just about anything
on Bainbridge Island
By Kevin Dwyer |
| Under normal conditions, Bainbridge Island is a wonderful place to shop, browse and nosh. But during the holidays, the island community is transformed into a glittery, festive wonderland... (Full Article) |
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SPECIAL REPORT - EXECUTIVE GIFT GIVING
Gift possibilities for the sportsmen
(and women) in your life abound around the peninsula
By Rodika Tollefson |
| If you’re looking for gift ideas for the sportsman, you have plenty of local shops to visit and lots of cool choices. It’s almost as hard as not having any choices at all. So plan to take an afternoon off, and visit local retailers, where you’ll find lots of expertise and help along with overwhelming assortments... (Full Article) |
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SPECIAL REPORT - EXECUTIVE GIFT GIVING
They have it all?
You can still find creative ideas
By Rodika Tollefson |
| So you’ve missed the genuine Concorde memorabilia auction in London and don’t quite have enough funds for a ferry, the latest selling craze on eBay, and you’re certainly not thinking of a fruitcake. Is there anything left to give the person who has everything... (Full Article) |
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SPECIAL REPORT - EXECUTIVE GIFT GIVING
Personalized gifts are always in style
By Rodika Tollefson |
| There is something magic about a personalized gift that puts a smile on the recipient’s face. Maybe it’s the thought of you going that extra mile to make a present special, or maybe it’s that excitement of seeing the name permanently etched in... (Full Article) |
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SPECIAL REPORT - EXECUTIVE GIFT GIVING
Year’s end can be taxing for some
By Justin W. Freed, CFP |
| With the end of the year clearly in sight, our attention turns to turkey, eggnog and, for many... taxes. So, with that in mind, here are a few things you may want to consider... (Full Article) |
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SPECIAL REPORT - EXECUTIVE GIFT GIVING
Another hi-tech Christmas,
but it doesn’t get any easier
By Rodika Tollefson |
| With technology these days changing as fast as the Northwest weather, thank goodness Christmas comes only once a year. Just keeping up with all the latest and hottest would give anyone an eggnog hangover... (Full Article) |
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SPECIAL REPORT - EXECUTIVE GIFT GIVING
What’s new under the digital
Christmas tree this year?
High-tech toys for the geek or other computer user on your shopping list |
| Verbatim Digital Vinyl CD-Rs: A new family of CD-R discs that will give baby boomers a blast from the past and younger generations a glimpse at yesterday’s popular vinyl record format... (Full Article) |
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SPECIAL REPORT - EXECUTIVE GIFT GIVING
Think about the Arts for unique gift giving ideas
By Linda Thomson |
Artistic expression comes in many packages, and you could put one under someone’s tree this year.
The Amy Burnett Gallery in downtown Bremerton is part of the city’s designated official arts district, Burnett indicates. With over half a dozen galleries and three museums, complete with gift shops, the arts district is a great place to find gifts for others, for the home or for the office... (Full Article)
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SPECIAL REPORT - EXECUTIVE GIFT GIVING
Gadgets make great holiday gifts
By Linda Thomson |
| Looking for an amazing gadget or gizmo for that certain recipient? There are many from which to choose, and the price range is broad. You may want to pre-shop on the Internet, but go in person to Radio Shack, one of your local gadget stores, and see them for yourself... (Full Article) |
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SPECIAL REPORT - EXECUTIVE GIFT GIVING
Think of the whole world as a gift.
Give someone that dream trip
By Linda Thomson |
| The gift of travel can be the perfect item to place in a stocking or under the tree this year. Leanne Swanson Sanchez, owner of Hood Canal Travel in Belfair, has some grand ideas to share as destinations... (Full Article) |
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SPECIAL REPORT - EXECUTIVE GIFT GIVING
Alternative business client gift idea |
| It is customary for businesses to give gifts of appreciation to their clients and employees during the holiday season. One that says a lot about a company’s values, makes a real difference in the world and honors clients and employees is a gift to a charity in the customer’s name... (Full Article) |
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SPECIAL REPORT - EXECUTIVE GIFT GIVING
A little kindness goes a long way
during holiday season
By Rodika Tollefson |
| For the single mom struggling to make ends meet, the lonely senior who has recently lost a life-long companion, or the family whose father just lost his job, December could be the saddest time of the year. As you are out and about checking presents off your list and stocking up on dinner trimmings, consider spending a few dollars to help someone in need... (Full Article) |
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SPECIAL REPORT - EXECUTIVE GIFT GIVING
Finding gifts under $20
By Linda Thomson |
| Everyone at work has exchanged names, and now you have a $20 limit to buy a holiday gift, but what? Here are some idea-starters... (Full Article) |
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SPECIAL REPORT - EXECUTIVE GIFT GIVING
Giving jewelry is always in style...
Ask any woman
By Rodika Tollefson |
| It’s just like you’ve seen on TV commercials: Diamonds are forever. Make that gold too. The economy hasn’t been very nice to many shoppers this year, but even jewelry selections around Kitsap can be surprisingly affordable. So you can spend a little, or spend a lot, but either way if your goal this Christmas is to make someone feel like a million bucks — to borrow from this old but tried cliché — jewelry is your currency... (Full Article) |
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SPECIAL REPORT - EXECUTIVE GIFT GIVING
Exotic, unusual, and very expensive
gifts and wishes... Start your Engines |
| Blending exotic Italian style with advanced technologies, the new Maserati epitomizes the luxury sports car. Timeless and glamorous in the Modena tradition, the Maserati Spyder and Coupé are designed and built at the historic factory in Viale Ciro Menotti... (Full Article) |
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SPECIAL REPORT - TAXES AND INVESTMENT
IRS sets application fee for
“offers in compromise” |
| On Nov. 1, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) began charging, with some exceptions, a $150 application fee to process offers in compromise. An offer in compromise (OIC) allows taxpayers to settle their tax liabilities for less than the full amount... (Full Article) |
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SPECIAL REPORT - TAXES AND INVESTMENT
Tefft joins AWB government affairs staff |
| Kris Tefft has joined the Association of Washington Business (AWB) Governmental Affairs staff, where he will serve as Director for Legal Affairs... (Full Article) |
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