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Thursday, October 14, 2010

It's not too early to get vaccinated as flu season nears

The influenza season is approaching and Racine County Health Officials are encouraging all residents 6 months and older to get vaccinated. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Southern Hemisphere’s predominant circulating influenza viruses are good matches for all three types of influenza contained in this year’s seasonal influenza vaccine. Influenza season in the United States generally occurs during the winter months but can occur as early as October or as late as April. Wisconsin has only seen sporadic cases so far this season.

Influenza vaccination is the single most important method to prevent influenza infections. The CDC now recommends that all people aged 6 months and older should receive a flu shot. Children under 6 months of age are best protected when their household members and caregivers are vaccinated against influenza. Flu shots are available from various health care providers throughout the community.

Additional methods to protect yourself and others from contracting and spreading influenza are the use of common sense measures such as good handwashing and covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing. People with symptoms of influenza, fever (or feeling feverish), cough, sore throat, runny nose, achiness and fatigue, should stay home from work or school during their illness.

Influenza has a significant impact on the community each year. Recently the CDC analyzed three decades of influenza seasons (1976-2007) and reported an estimate of 23,607 deaths per year from influenza infections on average. The actual number of deaths varies from season to season ranging from 3,349 to 48,614 deaths depending on the type of influenza circulating. In addition to causing death, the effects of influenza can burden the United States health care system and workforce resulting in increased medical costs, hospitalizations and lost worker productivity.

For more information on obtaining a flu shot, contact your health care provider, local health department, or visit the Wisconsin Flu Clinic Finder on the web.

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Transition Racine to hear presentation

Transition Racine will meet Monday, Oct. 11, at 6:30 p.m. to hear a presentation by Tom Brandstetter on the history and progress of Transition Milwaukee, the need for everyone to power down energy use, his personal efforts to do so, and his trip to Denmark.

The meeting will be held at Gateway Technical College in the Racine Building's Superior Room on the 1st floor.

Transition Racine is part of a global-wide effort to create, enhance, promote and support local community projects and businesses. It wants to support local farmers, encourage members to grow/share their own food, learn to power down and save energy, generate our own power, support our local economies, local resilience and self-reliance.

Thursday, September 23, 2010

Homeopathic treatment, flower essence sessions offered

Marybeth Buchele, a homeopathic master practitioner with a practice in Menomonie and St. Louis Park, MN, will offer three programs in Racine in October about the effectiveness of natural treatments including classical homeopathy and traditional flower essences.
Homeopathy is a science developed about 200 years ago in Europe based on the principle that  “like cures like.” In simple words, it means that any substance, which can produce symptoms in a healthy person, can cure similar symptoms in a person who is sick.  For instance, an onion which makes your eyes water and your nose burn; if you are having an attack of hay fever with watering eyes and a burning nose, a homeopathic remedy made from onion can relieve it.

The original Bach Flower Remedies is a system of 38 flower remedies that corrects emotional imbalances: negative emotions are replaced with positive. They were developed by the late Dr. Edward Bach, a British physician, who began to see disease as an end product; a final stage; a physical manifestation of unhappiness, fear and worry. He  looked to nature to find healing flowers and, during a period of years, found 38 flowers and plants that, with, preparation, became the 38 Bach Flower Remedies.

Buchele is a graduate of the Northwestern Academy of Homeopathy in Minneapolis and the Bach  Centre in England, and has been using these essences for more than 25  years.

The programs in Racine include:

Bach  Flower Essences to Ease Life’s Emotional Challenges:  In this class, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 19.   Buchele will cover all 38 of the Bach essences. Cost is $30.

Healing Winter Colds and Flu the Natural Way: Sniffles, sore throats, sneezing, fever and all-over body aches aren't an unavoidable part of winter.  Buchele will discuss how homeopathy, herbs and vitamins can tune up your immune system,  from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 21. A free-will offering will be requested for this presentation.

Both sessions will be held at Lake House Health and Learning Center, 932 Lake Ave. Call Lake (262) 633-2645 to reserve a space; get directions and other information.

Buchele will also serve as guest speaker at the morning monthly “Cup of Consciousness" gathering on Oct. 20 at Cup Of Hope, 507 Sixth St., to discuss “Natural Practical Ways To Improve Your Health.” In addition, she will take appointments for private consultations on Oct. 19-21, which cost $350; $100 deposit is required prior to the appointment. For reservations and further details, access her website or call (715) 231-6068.

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Medication disposal box opens at Police Department

Expired, unwanted or unused pharmaceuticals and medications my be dropped off for displosal at the Racine Police Department, starting on Saturday, Sept. 25.

Medications can be deposited anonymously in the Prescription Medication Drop Box located in
the front lobby area of the Racine Police Department at 730 Center St. beginning at 8 a.m., as the department participates in National Take Back Day, sponsored by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.

Medication may remain in the original packaging and placed in the drop box. Participants may remove personal identifying information from the packing, but this is not necessary.

Medication which is unused or unwanted and remains in a home is vulnerable to misuse, abuse and diversion. Disposing of these medications by throwing them away or flushing them down the toilet can be a safety and health hazard.

National Take Back Day is a “kick off” for the Racine Police Department’s permanent drop box, a collaborative effort between the Wisconsin Alliance for Drug Endangered Children, the Racine Wastewater Utility, the Racine Health Department and the Racine Police Department. The Prescription Medication Drop Box will remain in the lobby of the Police Department and available for the public to deposit unwanted and unused medications Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Lakeview Pharmacy offers safe drug disposal program

Lakeview Pharmacy is offering a drug take back program to help patients safely dispose of medicines that may be dangerous to others and to the environment. The program came about because of news about pharmaceuticals contaminating the water supply, and teenage abuse of prescription drugs.

“As members of the community, pharmacists are in a prime position to ensure the safe and proper handling of medications, from dispensing to disposal,” said Pete Ciaramita co-owner of Lakeview Pharmacy.  “Unused or expired medications pose risks to our families, communities, and the environment." Pharmacists will talk to anyone about their prescriptions and how to store, use and dispose of them, he said.

Patients of any pharmacy are invited to safely dispose of unused and expired medications at Lakeview Pharmacy, free of charge, by bringing in the drugs in their original containers. The pharmacy will dispose of the drugs using the Sharps TakeAway Environmental Return System. Controlled substances are not accepted. 

The Office of National Drug Control has found that prescription drugs are the drug of choice among 12- and 13-year olds, while a third of all new abusers of prescription drugs were between the ages of 12 and 17. Though the amount of drugs in drinking water may be negligible, more and more consumers are disposing of unused medicines by flushing them down the drain, adding pharmaceutical pollution to our waters. Medicines thrown in the trash can end up in landfills if not first picked up by children, pets, sanitation employees, or anyone who rummages through trash.

Ciaramita is a member of the National Community Pharmacists Association which in April launched a drug disposal program to protect people and the environment. The organization represents more than 23,000 community pharmacies that dispense nearly half of the nation's retail prescription medicines.

Monday, September 20, 2010

Midwest Training Series begins its fifth year at Lake House

The new Midwest Training Series for professionals who want to learn psychodrama and experiential skills to enhance their work begins Friday, Sept. 24, with "Endings And Beginnings: Using Action For Significant Transitions," at Lake House Health and Learning Center, 932 Lake Ave.

The series, now in its fifth year, covers a range of material including sociometry and group skills, Systemic Family Constellation Work, sand tray and the Therapeutic Spiral Model as well as the historical and theoretical foundations of psychodrama.

Most classes are taught by Karen Carnabucci, right, a licensed clinical social worker certified in the new Systemic Constellation Work. Carnabucci is  working on a book titled, "Psychodrama And Systemic Constellation Work: New Directions for Action Methods, Experiential Therapy And Energy Healing" to be published in 2011.

Continuing education credits are available.

In the Sept. 24 class, from 9 a.m. to noon, Carnabucci  will teach participants how to bring action and simple rituals to working with groups and individuals who are beginning or ending relationships, jobs, careers or other kinds of transitions. Specific topics include:
  • How to evoke memories of past important events and experiences
  • Notice when you are the “bridge” of change.
  • Take appropriate action to acknowledge endings and transitions.
  • Honoring the new and the unknown.
Tuition is $35 and includes three continuing education credits and psychodrama hours for social workers, addictions counselors and licensed professional counselors. To register contact Karen Carnabucci at (262) 633-2645 to reserve your space by Thursday morning, Sept. 23.

Future classes include:
  • Oct. 22: Introducing Action In 1-1 Settings For Counselors, Coaches, Others
  • Oct. 30: Mothers, Daughters, Grandmothers and Others with Systemic Constellation Work with co-presenter Gerlinde Gelina, who has 14 years in Gestalt therapy and Constellation Work. The program will also be available on Oct. 29 if there is enough interest.
  • Nov. 5: Sand Tray Theatre: A Miniature World That Tells Big Stories
Classes in 2011 will be listed online  where interested persons may also sign up for the center's e-newsletter on current trainings and other professional resources. For more information, call (262) 633-2645 or see the current newsletter posted at the Lake House blog. 

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Just for Men Stretch offered at Your Yoga Lifestyle

September is National Yoga Month and yoga studios are providing communities with ways to promote health and awareness for healthier lifestyles. 

Your Yoga Lifestyle is offering an opportunity geared towards men, called Just for Men Stretch, on Saturday, Sept. 18, from 10:30 a.m. to noon, at the studio, 518 College Ave., 2nd floor.

There will be no music, no dance, no chants. Rather, three different demonstrations by three different men for three different male types. What type of male are you:
  • Athletic, competitive, runner, biker, consider themselves physically fit.
  • Middle aged, possibly stressed, doesn't participate in sports like he used to, enjoys his remotes, TV, a cold brew and perhaps has a belly to go with that.
  • Senior or could act like one, knees hurt, backaches, extremely inflexible.
At the same time, Your Yoga Lifestyle is working to benefit The Make A Wish Foundation that helps children with devastating diseases.  Linda Messerschmidt, studio owner, has a nephew,  Shaymus Guinn, with cancer who recently received a travel award to Sea World through Make A Wish Foundation. In his honor, she would like others to benefit from this worthwhile charity.  A $20 donation is suggested.   RSVP at 262.880.4044 or sign up online.  All men attending this event will also receive a 20% discount off the cost of any class pass they purchase between Sept. 18 and 30.

A Free Week of Yoga is also offered during the month of September to experienced students who are new to Your Yoga Lifestyle.   Coupon available at www.yogahealthfoundation.org.

Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Fundraiser to support Farm Fresh Atlas of SE Wisconsin

A fundraising dinner will be held on Saturday, Sept. 11, to help sustain the Farm Fresh Atlas of Southeastern Wisconsin, a guide that connects residents with local farmers, farmers’ markets and locally owned and operated businesses and organizations.

“The Atlas is supported primarily through listing fees,” said Rose Skora, Agriculture Educator for Kenosha Counties UW-Extension. “We are looking for ways to maintain the fees for local farmers and businesses, even though the costs to publish the Atlas are increasing."

The dinner at Oconomowoc Lake Club will start with a silent auction and hors d’oeuvres showcasing the produce and products of local farmers and businesses. At 7:30 p.m., a dinner using locally-sourced food prepared by Oconomowoc Lake Club Chef Jack Kaestner will be served.

Dinner is $65 for individuals 13 and older; $45 for youth between six and twelve; and children under age five eat for free by sharing a meal with an adult. Tickets can be purchased online or ordered by  mail. For more information or to request a ticket order form, contact Rose Skora at (262) 857-1948 or rose.skora@ces.uwex.edu .

Friday, August 27, 2010

Apple orchard walk for MS at Apple Holler today

On Saturday, Aug. 28, Apple Holler will host its 6th annual Apple Orchard Walk & Fundraiser to benefit the MS Society-Wisconsin Chapter.

"This is a personal issue for me," says Dave Flannery, owner and CEO of Apple Holler. "Four of my sisters have MS, so I have a very special interest in doing what I can to fight this disease, or even find a cure."

Participants who "Join The Movement", will take part in a 1-mile walk through the orchard. The walkers are invited to pick a ½ peck of Paula Red Apples and fuel up with a delicious apple pancake breakfast. The entry fee of $20 per walker, or $19 per walker for a group of six or more, will also include a free raffle ticket.
  • Apple Pancake Breakfast 7 - 11 a.m.
  • Orchard Walk Check In 7:30 - 9 a.m.
  • Official Ribbon Cutting & Orchard Walk 9 a.m.
  • Raffle Drawing (Must be present to win) 10:30 a.m.

Also for sale is the Apple Bites Cookbook, a collection of apple recipes submitted by our customers.  A portion of the proceeds will go to the Multiple Sclerosis Society - Wisconsin Chapter.

Apple Holler restaurant, bakery, gift shop, dinner theatre and apple orchard is located just off of I-94, between Hwy KR & Hwy 11 on the west frontage road.

Healthy Eating: Spicy stir-fried eggplant



By Mila DeChant 

The greatest wealth we can achieve is our health. If we lose our health, we are not at our peak. Good wholesome food nourishes our whole body.  Most people often struggle with cooking a scrumptious meal at home. Busy lives often take precedence over what we put in our bodies. Most people tend to grab what is easily available that is convenient. Ready made food, TV dinners or fast food. Sometimes we fail to read what contains in our food. Chemicals, artificial flavorings, refined sugars, refined flour are some of the many ingredients that do not belong in our diet.

You are indeed what you eat. No magic pill is going to melt pounds off your body if you are over weight. It always starts with the abundance of natural, unmodified, chemical free vegetation that the mother earth provides us with.

Cooking at home does not require you to be a contestant in from “Top Chef” or does it require you to be enrolled in a culinary school. Food has always been cooked with love at home for thousands of years. It has been a worldwide phenomenon. Cooking a homemade meal does not only bring a family closer but it educates one how to eat mindfully. As once a really diabolic landlord of mine lashed out on me for cooking every day. To him, I say, “Cultivate mindfulness in what you eat!” and yes, half of the world does cook everyday.

Let’s take a step to a better lifestyle via our food. Here is a simple delicious recipe for you to try.

 Spicy stir-fried eggplant

- 2 shallots ~ Finely diced
- 2 cloves of garlic ~ Finely diced
- 2 baby eggplants ~ Diced
- 2 tablespoons of chilli flakes
- 4 tablespoons of olive oil
- Sea salt to taste

Method ~

Sautee the diced shallots and the diced garlic till they are softened. Once the garlic turns slightly golden colour, add in the chilli flakes. Let it cook for 3 to 5 minutes under medium flame. Add in the diced eggplants. Give it a good stir and cover with a lid for 2 minutes. Add sea salt and give it a quick toss. Turn off the stove once the eggplants become soft. It is ready to be served with warm brown rice.

Thursday, August 19, 2010

The journey into your own heart

Every individual is on their own unique path; it is the one thing that we all have in common. Human beings are consummate seekers, consciously and unconsciously looking to rediscover ourselves and surrender to our own Divine purpose.

Markus Kasunich will offer an evening of exploration, insight and understanding to assist anyone interested in deepening their own connection to their source… through the path of the heart. He will help unravel some of the misconceptions of the spiritual journey and help understand the beauty of surrender, devotion, and self-love.  The session will include a Q&A forum, so visitors are invited to bring questions.

There is no admission fee, but donations will be accepted to support Mind Body Spirit Wisconsin.  The session will take place Wednesday, Sept. 1, at Images by Camela, 237 Main St., from 7 to 9:30 p.m. 

Monday, August 16, 2010

Outlook for Wind Power: Wingspread briefing now online

The Johnson Foundation at Wingspread recently held a briefing on  “The Outlook on Wind Power in Wisconsin and the U.S.,” presented by Jeff Anthony of the American Wind Energy Association.

Video of that briefing has been posted online HERE.


Lynn Broaddus, Wingspread's director of Environment Programs, has a blog post on the briefing HERE.

Friday, August 13, 2010

Classes will offer tools for caregivers

Taking Care of You: Powerful Tools for Caregivers is a series for informal caregivers of adult family members.

Classes will take place on six Tuesdays from 6-8 p.m. beginning on Aug. 24 at St. Paul the Apostle Church, 6400 Spring St. These classes will help caregivers to: practice self-care; communicate effectively, make good caregiving decisions, and much more.

Space is limited and registration required. Call 638-6800 or email marilyn.joyce@goRacine.org.


New physicians join Wheaton Franciscan All Saints

Three new physicians recently joined Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare-All Saints. They include:

Bains
Manmeet Bains, MD, is a board certified Family Medicine physician. Dr. Bains earned her Medical Degree from Virginia Commonwealth University/Medical College of Virginia School of Medicine in Richmond and completed her residency at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in Jamaica, New York. Her office is located on the Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare – All Saints Spring Street Campus at 3807 Spring Street, Racine. For an appointment, call (262) 687-8173.
Cook
 Kristen Cook, MD, Pediatrician, received her Medical Degree from Creighton University School of Medicine in Omaha, Nebraska. She completed her residency at Children’s Hospital of Milwaukee. Her office is located on the Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare – All Saints Spring Street Campus at 3807 Spring Street, Racine. For an appointment, call (262) 687-8282.

Ramanujam
Sandeep Ramanujam, MD, Family Medicine physician earned his Medical Degree from St. George’s University on the Island of Grenada, West Indies and completed his residency at Lehigh Valley Hospital/Pennsylvania State University Program. Dr. Ramanujam’s office is located on the Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare – All Saints Wisconsin Avenue Campus at 1320 Wisconsin Avenue, Racine. For an appointment, call (262) 687-5600. 

For more information on these new or any of the physicians at Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare – All Saints, visit www.mywheaton.org/findadoctor.

Saturday, August 7, 2010

Homeopathic physician plans talk, appointments at Lake House

Marybeth Buchele, a classical homeopathic physician with a practice in Menomonie, Wis., and St. Louis Park, Minn., will speak at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 16 on the origins and effectiveness of homeopathic treatment.

Homeopathy is a well-regarded medical science developed about 200  years ago in Europe – where it is still quite popular – and is  based on the principle that  “like cures like.” In simple words, it means that any substance, which can produce symptoms in a healthy person, can cure similar symptoms in a person who is sick.  For instance, an onion is a substance which makes your eyes water and your nose burn. If you are having an attack of hay fever with watering eyes and a burning nose, a homeopathic remedy made from onion can relieve it.

Buchele will discuss how homeopathy is successfully used for healing everyday health problems such as colds and flu, minor urinary complaints and childhood illnesses as well as chronic conditions such as inflammation, intestinal disorders, food cravings, stomach or head pain, muscle and joint pain, depression, auto-immune illnesses, allergies, chronic fatigue and many more ailments.
Free-will offering will be requested for the presentation. Please call Lake House at (262) 633-2645 to reserve your space; find directions and other information at www.lakehousecenter.com.

In addition, Buchele will take appointments for private consultations on Aug. 16 and 17. Each consultation will include:
  • A phone discussion prior to Marybeth’s Racine visit
  • A face-to-face three-hour consultation to discuss your health situation in depth.
  • A customized homeopathic remedy designed for you with specific instructions on how to take your remedy.
  • Follow-up phone call with Marybeth after you begin to take the remedy.

Cost for consultation, related services and customized remedy is $350 with $100 deposit by check or PayPal prior to the appointment. Cost may be reimbursed by your Health Savings Account or your insurance’s flex plan.

See Marybeth’s web site at www.healthnaturally.biz to access paperwork and learn more about her and her practice or call her at (715) 231-6068. She is willing to add a third day of appointments after the two days are filled. Download poster  at Lake House web site to print and share.

Tuesday, August 3, 2010

Dekoven hosting conference with Dr. Timothy Ts'o on Aug. 21

Dr. Timothy Ts'o will lead a conference titled, " Following God’s Will in This Time of Turbulence through our mental health and spiritual growth," on Saturday, August 21 at The DeKoven Center.

Dr. Ts'o is a board-certified psychiatrist with 51 years experience. His experiences in medicine and psychiatry combined with his own spiritual practice and growth gives a unique authenticity to his presentations.

The day-long conference is divided into four sections focusing on topics including spiritual growth, the evolutionary perspective of spirituality, mental health, and consciousness. The conference will run from 9am to 4:30pm. The suggested donation is $75 and includes a continental breakfast, lunch, and morning and afternoon refreshments. Complete scholarships for clergy, Seminarians, and Religious are available.

For reservations, email info@dekovencenter.com or phone 262-633-6401

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Demonstrations of Constellation Healing scheduled

Lake House Health & Learning Center will host a series of eight demonstration sessions, "Constellation, Ancestors And Healing," about a new intergenerational healing method starting July 26 with Karen Carnabucci, LCSW, TEP, a licensed clinical social worker and educator.

The method is Systemic Constellation Work, an unconventional therapeutic method which began in Germany about 30 years ago and is rapidly expanding throughout the United States and the world and is being applied to organizational development and education.

Carnabucci will discuss the process and lead a demonstration; a psychotherapist and educator specializing in mind-body and alternative therapies, she has been recently certified as a facilitator through advanced training with the Stark Institute of Germany and The Hellinger Center of D.C.

Systemic Family Constellations are unlike cognitive, behavioral and interpersonal psychotherapies in their origin, form and purpose. They succeed by diminishing the unconscious impulses that drive destructive and self-defeating behaviors and allow new connections to emerge.

The method involves very little talk and focuses on body sensations and feelings that people experience when placed to represent one's family members, including ancestors that are unknown. Those standing are moved until the representatives feel a sense of peace. Much of the work focuses on family rank and what are
called "orders of love." It shows little of what most would call traditional psychotherapy and does not follow traditional psychological ideas.

The two-hour mini-demonstration sessions will include: 

•       A discussion of the background of Constellation Work and how it was developed.
•       The approach of the method and how family rank and love are viewed.
•       A demonstration of the process.

Dates include: 
  • 3 p.m. July 26
  • 10 am. July 29
  • 3 p.m. Aug. 2
  • 10 a.m. Aug. 7
  • 3 p.m. Aug. 16
  • 10 a.m. Aug. 19
  • 6:30 p.m. Aug. 24
  • 6:30 p.m. Aug. 31

In addition, Carnabucci will present a full-day program, "Stories of the Ancestors," from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 7, at Lake House. The day will focus on opportunities to address personal issues and is open to laypersons and professionals with continuing education and psychodrama credits provided.

Professionals and laypersons are welcome to attend and may observe or participate. There is no fee for the mini-demonstrations although a free will offering or donations to the Racine County Food Bank are welcome. In some cases participants may be able to use their health insurance for the session.

Interested persons may attend as many sessions as they wish and should call (262) 633-2645 to register or with questions. Space is limited and reservations are suggested.

Lake House is located at 932 Lake Ave., Racine. Directions and more information are online.

Saturday, July 3, 2010

'Intuitive healer' hosting series of classes and events in Racine this month

Intuitive healer Markus Kasunich (right) will host a series of classes, lectures and events in Racine this month. Kasunic lives in an ashram in Southern California, but has developed a local following in recent years. Below is a schedule of his local events:

Tuesday, July 20

“Life in Balance – Exploring and Applying the Universal Laws”
Location: Studio 237 – Images by Camela, 237 Main Street, Racine
Time: Doors open at 7:00 pm. Presentation at 7:30 pm.
Cost: Free will donation will be collected benefiting Eat Right Racine

Enjoy a discourse and discussion about the universal laws, understanding human energy dynamics, and how we can apply these principals in our personal relationships and our every-day lives. Drawing on his diverse background and years of spiritual training with Shamans, healers, mystics, and Masters from all over the globe, Markus Kasunich brings a personal, uplifting, and inspiring perspective to the topic of “Living in Balance,” making the sometimes obscure spiritual world practical and applicable for people from all walks of life. Join us in this engaging evening of discussion and exploration. Bring your questions!

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

“My Spiritual Journey”
Location: Olympia Brown Unitarian Church, 625 College Avenue, Racine
Time: 6:30-9:00 pm

Markus Kasunich has lived the life of a true seeker. Studying with spiritual teachers and mentors worldwide, exploring his own intuitive gifts and connection to the Divine, his dauntless search finally led him to his Guru. In this evening’s discussion, he will share stories of his own spiritual journey and experiences as a healer, as well his life at Prema Drala Ashram, where he has served as Personal Assistant to Spiritual Master Louix Dor Dempriey (Bhagavan Sri Pranananda) for the past 10 years. Join us for an exciting and inspiring evening of reflection and self-discovery.

Friday, July 23, 2010

Pranayama Breathing
Location: DeKoven Center, Assembly Hall, 600 -21st Street, Racine
*LIMITED AVAILABILITY - RSVP @ http://www.meetup.com/Mind-Body-Spirit-Wisconsin
Time: 7:30-10:00 pm
Cost: $30 per person

Pranayama (Sanskrit: प्राणायाम prāṇāyāma) is a Sanskrit word meaning "restraint of the prana or breath". The word is composed of two Sanskrit words, Prāna, life force, or vital energy, particularly, the breath, and "āyāma", to suspend or restrain. It is often translated as control of the life force (prana). When used as a technical term in yoga, it is often translated more specifically as "breath control".

This ecstatic breathing practice is done lying on the ground, using a specific breathing technique designed to move you into altered states of consciousness. Markus will facilitate by assisting each individual to maintain the breath and move energy within the body, as well as assisting in the removal of blockages and the integration of the pranayama experience. Be prepared for a journey into unprecedented states of consciousness. Please bring a yoga mat, blanket, and pillow.

Sunday, July 25, 2010

Healing Circle
Location: Your Yoga Lifestyle, 518 College Avenue, Second Floor, Racine
Please RSVP @ http://www.meetup.com/Mind-Body-Spirit-Wisconsin
Time: 6:30-9:00 pm
Cost: $50 per person

Take this journey and exploration into your Self. This is a perfect opportunity to work on present life issues and circumstances, to receive guidance, and tools to transcend current life patterns and issues in an intimate, respectful, and safe setting. Markus will utilize various physical, energetic, and spiritual healing techniques used for centuries by healers, Shamans, and mystics to assist you, (wherever you are in your present life journey) to develop a deeper sense of self awareness, enrich your connection to spirit within, and assist you to gain higher states of consciousness. Please bring a note pad and pen, and a yoga mat or cushion.

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

“Understanding Gurus and Spiritual Masters”
Location: DeKoven Center, Assembly Hall, 600 - 21st Street, Racine
Please RSVP @ http://www.meetup.com/Mind-Body-Spirit-Wisconsin
Time: 7:30-10:00 pm
Cost: By Donation

For the past ten years, Markus Kasunich has devoted himself to his own personal training and growth, alongside and under the direct guidance of an Enlightened Master Louix Dor Dempriey (Bhagavan Sri Pranananda). He currently serves as Personal Assistant at the world headquarters of the global organization. In this capacity, he has had the privilege of immersing himself in the peoples and cultures of more than fifteen countries, as he travels the world, assisting in facilitating spiritual retreats and pilgrimages, which have blessed and inspired profound healing in the lives of thousands…

In this evening of Satsang, Markus will share film footage and discourses from the Master, intimate and revealing stories from his own intense and deeply-personal training. He will help to dispel the myths, misconceptions, and fears, about Gurus and their role in our ever-changing world. He will also offer his own insight and understanding about Enlightenment, unconditional love, healing, and how this ancient esoteric knowledge applies to our modern lives. Bring your questions…We Invite you to a loving and respectful discussion on all facets of this topic. Be prepared for an amazing and revealing evening of exploration.

Thursday, July 29, 2010

Guided Meditation and Discussion on “Divine Parenting”
Location: Franksville United Methodist Church, 10402 Northwestern Avenue, Franksville
Please RSVP @ http://www.meetup.com/Mind-Body-Spirit-Wisconsin
Time: 7:30-10:00 pm
Cost: $30 per person

Markus will assist in cleansing the body, mind, and spirit and opening up experiences in the consciousness through guided breathing along with interactive visualization, and a meditative inner journey accompanied by soft music.

In response to many requests, Markus will lead a discussion on parenting, from a spiritual perspective. He will assist parents to better relate and understand the psychology of the child’s mind, offer a perspective to help parents to better guide their children on their own spiritual evolution, and to offer a unique perspective on the potential for healing that is available in their relationship with their children. Bring your questions, concerns, and life circumstances for an amazing interactive discussion and exploration.

Thursday, July 1, 2010

Heidi Fannin working to help Racine 'eat right'

By Mila Dechant

The human body has got the miraculous capability of healing itself when the right food is fed to it. You are what you eat and cultivating mindfulness is crucial. 

Heidi Fannin, 44, is immensely passionate about food and wholesome nutritional food at that. Her passion for food just explodes the minute she starts talking about it. Heidi is no stranger to freshly grown produce as she grew up eating what was grown in her mum’s garden. “We made our own breads and cheese,” exclaimed Heidi. 

Heidi became more focused on the importance of good nutritious food when she took note of the quality of the food that was served to the children in her daughter’s kindergarten. As a concerned mum, she had approached the principal of her daughter’s kindergarten to discuss about the quality of the food that was served to the children. What came out of the principal’s mouth took Heidi aback. “What are your credentials?” She thought that being a mum itself is a credential to have the absolute right to question what is being served to her own child in school. When she started making lunch for her daughter for school, people started telling her daughter to eat “kid’s food." “What is kid’s food? McDonalds? Pizza?” She wanted wholesome food to be fed to her kids and not refined poison. That is when “Eat Right Racine” started.

Heidi soon decided to embark on a whole new journey. She was gung-ho about changing and educating people about nutritious food that was unprocessed and unrefined. She decided to go to New York’s Institute for Integrated Nutrition. Heidi wants to share the knowledge of how eating right can benefit one’s body, mind and soul. She says, “ Everyone is so busy that they are not taking time to make a home cooked meal anymore. Most of the food is from a can or from the frozen aisle."

“Eat Right Racine” holds a monthly meeting that is open to the public. She is targeting a larger audience. She wants people to come and share the good eats. “It feels great supporting each other to start a healthy lifestyle” expressed Fannin. One of the biggest impacts we can make is via food - good, nutritious food. 

Fannin is a massage therapist and a body worker. She guides her clients to where they are supposed to be in their eating habits. It is so refreshing to have a group that motivates and educates the public about nutritious food that is healing to the body in Racine. Health is the biggest form of wealth that one can inherit.

Check Eat Right Racine on Facebook groups.

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Internationally recognized InterPlay comes to Racine in July


Cynthia Winton-Henry plays like her life depended on it. One day she heard a voice: "These are the directives: Clarity of Vision, Efficiency of Energy, Courage to Love."

Out of these experiences, she and Phil Porter developed InterPlay during the last 20 years and it has spread around the world. Now it comes to Racine.

InterPlay, an internationally known organization that has ignited a global social movement that promotes fun, movement, storytelling and play as a route to health, community building and spiritual growth, will come to Racine in mid-July with a variety of workshops and special programs at three separate locations..

The events include a free program and book signing on July 12, a low-cost participatory evening program on July 13 and a two-day intensive with Cynthia Winton-Henry, the co-founder of InterPlay.

InterPlay is great for anyone interested in reintegrating body mind heart and spirit in an elegant, creative manner. It also has great applications for spiritual directors, psychotherapists and clergy.

The schedule includes:

“The Five Great Freedoms,” a free public workshop and book signing from 7 to 9 p.m. Monday, July 12, at Covenant Presbyterian Church, 40 Ohio St.,

Come experience your Five Great Freedoms: move, vocalize, tell, connect, be. Cynthia Winton-Henry, co-founder of InterPlay, will demonstrate InterPlay's surprisingly simple steps to help you notice and welcome body wisdom that you may not be using fully. She will read from her new books “Chasing the Dance of Life and Dance” and “The Sacred Art: The Joy of Movement as Spiritual Practice” and sign books at the end of the evening.

The program is free but persons who reserve with JoAnn Hansen, local organizer, at jhansen120@wi.rr.com by, July 7 and attend the event you'll be entered to win a special prize.

“InterPlay Basics: It's All About Rediscovering The Connection” from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, July 13, at the Lake House Health & Learning Center, 932 Lake Ave., Racine, with Georgia Jane Kaftan and Jane Siarny. Siarny, a longtime teacher for children and adults, has been a Chicago InterPlay leader since 1995; Kaftan is a retired attorney who has been leading InterPlay groups since 2003.

Suggested donation is $5 to $10. For questions and registration please contact Georgia Jane at gkaftan45@yahoo.com or (920) 743-6265.

"Praying the Body” is a two-day intensive workshop on July13 and 14 at the DeKoven Center, 600 21st St., Racine, from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Leader will be Cynthia Winton-Henry, the co-founders of InterPlay. She is a teacher, performer, writer, and organizer. With Phil Porter she provides leadership to InterPlayers around the world and others interested in reintegrating body wisdom in their life and community practices. Her books include “What the Body Wants,” “Dance: A Sacred Art: Discovering the Joy of Movement as Spiritual Practice,” “Chasing the Dance of Life: A Faith Journey, “ and Having It All: Body, Mind, Heart & Spirit Together Again at Last.”

July 13 will focus on “InterPlay as Soulwork” Too many words? Seeking peace? Want a practice that aims for joy? Wondering about body and soul?

Come for a soulful place to welcome the wisdom of the body through movement, voice, stillness, and sharing stories. Beginning with easy, doable tasks—one-hand dances, one-breath songs, hand-to-hand movement with partners and thirty-second stories about light- hearted topics—you will discover new ways to do the work of the soul. You will discover the direct relationships between InterPlay's practices and traditional prayer as well as learning many new ways to do soulwork.

July 14 will focus on “Deepening Our Body Wisdom.”

This is what she plays with everyday. What are you playing with? If you are ready to move, breathe, give expression to your dreams, go deeper, claim your truth or just play because it gives you joy, this day is for you!

Tuition is $200 or $100 per day. Lodging and meals are also available for persons who wish those services. A commuter rate of $30 includes up to two meals.

To register, contact Stephanie Pile at (510) 465.2797; Questions should be directed to Harriet Platts, event organizer, at 206-227-6107 or harriet@interplay.org.

For more about the InterPlay program and for information on the Monday book signing and the two-day intensive, see InterPlay at http://www.interplay.org.

For more information about the program at Lake House Health & Learning Center and directions, see http://www.lakehousecenter.com/calendar.

Monday, June 14, 2010

Local Reiki Master practices 'pure' healing energy

By Mila Dechant


Love is the purest form of energy and any form of pure energy is healing energy. Reiki is one of the commonly known forms of pure healing energy.

Reiki practitioners and participants experience clarity, peace, wellbeing and are often in a state of ease. When carrying out Reiki, the practitioner places their hands over the participant’s particular areas of the body. Then the practitioner lets the universal flow of energy does it work with ease over a length of time.

Reiki is not a religion but spiritual in nature. I have personally experienced Reiki and it does wonders to the state of mind and well-being. More and more people are getting into this wholistic healing art form. I had the humble opportunity to speak with a Reiki practitioner.

Karuna Krinsky (right) is a Reiki Master and has been practising this healing art form since 1999. Karuna shares that Reiki has changed her life tremendously. After taken the reiki classes, she had experienced an epiphany. She experienced that she was aware of what she was holding back. Reiki allowed her to overcome her physical issues. Karuna’s Reiki teacher even noticed a change in her. Karuna’s disciplined practise of Reiki made her calm and composed.

Although Karuna was never interested to teach Reiki, she felt obligated to make this art available to others to improve their well-being. She started teaching in the summer of 2002 and has not stopped sharing and teaching ever since. Karuna shared that Reiki can be used for mental afflictions.  She also shared that it can create turbulence when you force it. Reiki can be practised on yourself or on someone else. When Reiki is carried out, you experience comfort and ease through your body. Karuna has been a lacto Vegetarian for 33 years. She became a vegetarian for personal reasons.  She did not want to subject herself to the pain and depression of an animal being slaughtered. Being a vegetarian has helped her practise reiki more efficiently but she does not recommend anyone to become a vegetarian for the sake of it. Each person has to have an epiphany in order follow a vegetarian diet.

Karuna is a board member of Institute for Wholistic Education, a non-profit organization. She carries out 4 classes a year for Reiki. Each class takes place during each season. More information is obtainable on her website www.reikiteacher.org

Energy is what moves matter. Everyone of us posses the healing art form when attuned in the right manner.

Relay participants remember cancer victims -- and do something to fight the disease

Applause for cancer survivors taking the first lap around the Relay track

As track meets go, the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life, now under way at Case High School's Hammes Field, is unique.

Men and women participate; young and old; healthy and ailing; some with a full head of hair, others with a bald pate signifying chemo and radiation treatment. They started walking around the track shortly after 6 p.m. Friday night, and won't finish until about 10 a.m. Saturday morning. Some walk; some are in wheelchairs; some shuffle along in walkers. 

Before the Relay started, there were 93 teams registered; 957 individuals. Between them, they had already raised $68,010.88 for the fight against cancer. (Update: They raised $205,000.) Every team promises to have at least one member on the track throughout the night, "because cancer never sleeps."

First around the track Friday night were cancer survivors, many of them wearing purple t-shirts proclaiming their own personal victories: "Had it. Fought it. Survived it." The survivors' lap was followed by a second group, the care-givers, followed by everyone else, all present to fight back against the disease. They marched to bouncy rock 'n roll; the more energetic taking time out for an hour of Zumba.

The track was lined with luminaries celebrating the lives of people who have battled cancer, and remembering loved ones lost. At dusk, candles were lit within each hand-decorated bag bearing the name of a person touched by cancer; participants then walked a lap in silence. 




Luminaries celebrated the victories ... and remembered those who lost
Zumba drew scores with boundless energy to spare


Here are three photos taken by Dan White, after the luminaries were lit at 9 p.m.

  

Racine gives world something to chew on...

Bite me! say two former Racinians!


Racine native Alex Seidel is on the cover of Food & Wine (that's him in the center of the back row), making an appearance in the magazine's 10 Best New Chefs issue. 

A 1991 graduate of Park High School, Seidel was nominated this year as a James Beard Foundation Award semi-finalist for Best Chef Southwest. Later this week, he will participate in Aspen's annual Food & Wine Classic.

He owns Fruition, a 52-seat, award-winning restaurant in Denver that has been featured in Bon Appetit, Gourmet and USA Today.

And where does he like to eat when he's back in Wisconsin? Seidel cites Kopp's custard and Wells Brothers pizza.

Go here for Food & Wine's article about Seidel -- and also for one of his recipes.  

Read more about him here in the Journal Sentinel.

The city's second taste of fame this morning comes via a different sort -- thanks to Kristin Bauer, who plays the vampire Pam in HBO's series True Blood, which opened its third season on Sunday. 

Pam co-owns the vampire bar Fangtasia in the series, and this is going to be her year to take charge.

Kristin's career began in 1994 with an episode of L.A. Law, and she spent a year on the Fox comedy, The Crew.  But her most memorable character -- until now! --  was as "Man-Hands Gillian," Jerry's girlfriend on Seinfeld. 

The Journal Sentinel profiled her this weekend, and there's more about Kristin and the sexy character she plays on HBO's website here.