Second Opinion | 1

Earth Day

April 22, 2008

LOCAL ALTERNATIVE HEALTH AND HEALING

SECOND OPINIONFREE

Alternative Fuel 101AAntioxidants Fight AgingRaw Foods DietEeek-oli!

Herb of the Month: Elder Tree

Spring Cleaning Naturally

Second Opinion | 2

Second Opinion | 3

Contents 4 editor’s note5 balanced living15 green pages16 happenings in the valley

healing foods6 Herb of the Month: Elder Tree

7 Antioxidants Fight Aging

8 Raw Foods Diet -Eat Yourself Healthy

12 Eeek-oli!

body balance20 Chair Yoga

healing paths22 Exploring EFT

beauty natural 24 Natural Treatments for Unsightly Coldsores

healthy family26 Health Benefits of Infant Massage

good earth28 Spring Cleaning, Naturally

30 Alternative Fuel 101

8

26

30

Second Opinion | 4

Editor’s Note

Spring is in the air, birds are chirping and it won’t be too long until the sun shines down and brings to life the tulips, daffodils, and the beginning of an-other great growing season.

My favorite season is the spring when there is green everywhere and the sun seems to make everyone a bit happier and a bit calmer!

We hope you find this issue full of great advice and tips for a better, bal-anced life.

April 22nd is Earth Day, so check out of Good Earth section for some great tips on products that are friendlier to the environment - learn how to use ev-eryday products to clean your home and save money, too. Don’t forget about the Earth Day Festival down at Phoenix Park. Come for a brief stop or for the whole day! We also have a very cool article on Alternative Fuel that will enlighten and inform about our greener fuel options.

When the weather gets warmer, we have to be a bit more careful about how we treat our food too. Eeee-koli is a great article to keep us a little more alert when it comes to picking and preparing our upcoming spring meals.

Being 9+ months pregnant, I am also delighted to highlight infant massage in our family section this issue. Maltee McMahon writes about the wonderful bonding that occurs between parent and baby when caresses and love are an integral part of the daily relationship.

--Arwen Rasmussen, Editor

Office:1927 Ohm AvenueEau Claire, Wisconsin 54701P: 715.831.0325F: 715.831.1925E: a2ndopinion@gmail.com

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief:Arwen Rasmussen

Managing Editor: Jennifer Quinlan

Copy Editor: Shannon Paulus

Graphic Design & Illustration:Dathan Boardman

Staff Writers:Abby Czeskleba, Kathryn Flehmer, Diane Wolfe

Distribution:Arkansaw, Barron, Bloomer, Cameron, Chippewa Falls, Chetek, Colfax, Durand, Eau Claire, Eleva, Glenwood City, Hayward, Hudson, La Crosse, Menomonie, Mondovi, New Richmond, Pepin, Rice Lake, River Falls, Spooner, Stanley, Thorp, Viroqua, Whitehall, Wil-lard, Winona

Advertising:Arwen Rasmussen 715-831-0325 Jennifer Quinlan 715-838-0013a2ndopinion@gmail.com

All articles are the sole property of the writers. Opinions expressed in Second Opinion are the opin-ions of the writers or advertisers themselves, not the publication or its editors. Second Opinion is not liable for use of any artwork pro-vided by advertisers. Please direct concerns to the advertisers.

We would like to apologize to Dr. John Soborowicz for having the wrong author’s name in his article, Neck Strech, that appeared in the last issue.

Second Opinion | 5

balanced living Tips and ideas for a healthy and balanced life

Winter Farmers Market:

March 8Hope United Methodist

Church, 2233 Golf Rd, Eau Claire

April 12Trinity Lutheran Church, 1314 E. Lexington, Eau

ClaireCall Julie Maro, 834-4547,

for more information.

Household Uses of Hydrogen Peroxide H2O2Hydrogen peroxide is the only germicidal agent composed only of water and oxygen. Check out all the uses!*Soak your toothbrush in 3% hydrogen peroxide between brushings to kill bacteria.*Spray down shower with 3% hydrogen peroxide to kill bacteria bugs and viruses.* Add 2 ounces of 3% hydrogen peroxide to dish water/machine formula to sanitize and eliminate transmis-sion of colds and diseases. *Use salt and 3% hydrogen peroxide in chilled water for washing fish, chicken or other meat to kill bacteria and viruses.*Add salt in addition to 1/4 cup 3% hydrogen peroxide to a sink full of cold water. Wash vegetables thor-oughly, rinse with cold water and drain to prolong freshness.*Spray leftover salad with solution of 1/2 cup water and 1 tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide. Drain, cover and refrigerate to eliminate use of chemical preservatives.

*Keep a spray bottle of 3% solution of hydrogen peroxide in the kitchen. Use to wipe off counter tops and appliances to disinfect and keep fresh smell. *Use 1 pint of 3% hydrogen peroxide to a gallon of water in humidifiers to keep them clean.*Add 8 ounces of 3% hydrogen peroxide to your wash in place of bleach.*For small animals (dogs and cats) use 1 ounce 3% hydrogen peroxide to 1 quart water for their drinking water and bath.For more: visit www.h2o2-4u.com/house.html.

Shop SmartThis Earth Day, April 22, Michael Braungart is urging people to shop smarter. His new book Cradle to Cradle ap-proaches goods with an eye to the next life. “Try to buy stuff that can nourish the earth as compost, burn cleanly as fuel, or returns to in-dustry for reuse,” says Braungart.

Eat Ice CreamBen & Jerry’s recently partnered with Dave Matthews Band and others to create a new flavor, Magic Brown-ies. A portion of its sales will go to global warming initiatives. Learn more at www.lickglobalwarming.org.

April ShowersSave hundreds of gallons of water by collecting rain in barrels connected to your down spouts. Use it for gardening and other outside chores. Look for barrels with spigots and hose attachments for easy access and drainage. Try www.trycomposter.com. You’ll save money and energy on water treatment facilities.

H2O2

Holistic Dentistry There’s somewhere to turn if you’re concerned about amalgam fillings, want alternatives to jaw surgery, prefer natural dental remedies and more. Holistic Dentistry is becoming increasingly popular across the country. Given rising concerns about mercury, many dentists now avoid “silver” fillings. But more than offering non-toxic treatments, holistic dentists believe that teeth issues can affect your overall health. From homeopathic and herbal remedies to a whole person approach to tooth care, it’s not a new idea - the Holistic Dental Associ-

ation was founded in 1978. This path of dental care is drawing more and more attention, including in Wisconsin. River Falls Holistic Dentist John Laughlin travels extensively to make presentations that cover alternatives to traditional dental care. He will speak in Eau Claire at the Holistic Mom’s Network on April 15 at 6:30pm (715.836.7645 for details). For more on holistic dentistry, visit www.HolisticDental.org or www.HealthLine.com.

Second Opinion | 6

balanced living

Folklorian history tells us that the green healers, Druids and Gypsies of Old Europe held superstitions about the sacred Elder tree, once called the “Tree of Medicine” or “Tree of Music”. Most believing that it was the home or host of the wise Elder Tree Mother, the Druid Hylde Moer. Therefore, they avoided cutting the tree, using it for fire-wood or damaging it in anyway. Instead, they used it to rid evil or negative influences. ‘Elders’ would never ‘switch’ the children with elders! Precious tree twigs were carried as protective charms instead; seedlings planted on graves of the beloved. In Russia, Elder was a holy tree and one of the strongest of tree medicines.

In addition to these superstitious beliefs, Elder was used in numerous healthful ways from the cultural to culinary to medicinal. The word Elder derived from the old Anglo Saxon work aeld, meaning fire, because its hollow stems were once used for the firestarting bellows. Other cultural uses of the wood included wood carving of combs, pegs, fish-ing rods, musical instruments and more. Those interested in the use of natural dyes will discover that historically elder was quite versatile, used by weavers and fiber artists to achieve black dye from the older branches, green dye with alum from the leaves, blue and purple dyes from the rich berries, violet from the berry juice with alum, and lilac from juice mixed with alum and salt. Ancient Romans even used the elderberry juice as a jet black hair dye. How chic! Elderberry wine, cordials, jams, jellies, pies and syrups were common in Northern European pantries and early American stocks.

Elder is a vital botanical to reintroduce in the wintertime with its bioregional availability and its multiple uses. The berries are rich in vitamin C, iron and potassium. Thus, it makes an impor-tant food source through the long winter months. Cooked, the berries become a potent rich base for cough syrup, cold and flu formula, teas and tinctures for croup, asthma and various respira-tory infections. Historically, elderberry tinctures were used for scarlet fever, measles and as a winter blood purifier. Elder leaves are mixed into herbal poultices or external preparations by Master Herbalists, then applied to dry skin, boils, inflammations, swollen

or painful joints and tumors. Ojibwe of the Great Lakes utilized the inner bark of Elder to relieve headaches and other pains by applying external packs. Ointment of mashed Elder and Plantain leaves, along with Ground Ivy and

Wormwood is an old botanical formula for wounds, fibroids, cysts and tumors

Master Herbalists will inform you that not all parts of Elder are edible; outer bark and roots should not be harvested or ingested, since they are purgatives and emetics. Berries must be cooked or prepared as a decoction before ingesting, rather than eaten raw. Elder flowers and leaves are suitable to use medicinally.

For those of you who are interested in homeopathy, you may want to know that Sambucus Nigra derives from Elder and is utilized for coughs, croup and sometimes asthma. While those of you whom have interest of the esoteric realm of Plant Spirit Medicine, Elder has an affinity for the 3rd and 4th chakras. It supports the body with healing issues such as releasing of sad-ness, grief and depression. Essentially, aiding with the clearing and moving of ‘stuck’ energies within the heart and throat centers flowing with a downward movement. Elder nourishes when one is drained. Astrological Herbalists know that Elder is a Gemni plant which supports the respiratory system.

Herbalists LOVE Elder! May it become a staple of your Winter Natural Medicine Cabinet for years to come.

Master Herbalist and Naturopath Gigi Stafne, MH, ND is a national writer and educator on botanical & natural medicine, as well as ecology & environmental health. She received the North American Medicinal Plant Conservation Award in 2007 and runs the United Plant Savers Botanical Sanctuary in WI (N. American group) and the WI Herbalists without Borders chapter. Gigi also owns MI ZI ZAK KAYAKS, Adventure Botanica.

All information in this article is intended to be educational in nature, rather than a medical diagnosis or treatment.

Tea, Tincture, and DosageTea: Elder flower at 1 oz per 1 pint of water; 2-4 cups daily Herbal Tincture: 2-4 ml 3x/day Cold/Cough Syrup: 1 T. 4x/day

Herb of the MonthElder: Tree of Medicine

By Gigi Stafne

Botanical Sanctuary United Plant Savers, Herbalists without Borders

Blue Diamond Vacation Area, WI 715.967.2300, fireweed@citizens-tel.net

H ands-on learning, on-site plant research, sustainable land use & building, cultivation

of natural medicinal plants, eco tours & more

Second Opinion | 7

healing foods

Antioxidants Fight AgingBy Ken Seguine

Available at Just Local Food Co-op

The tropical fruit mangosteen is so tasty that people who have tasted it just can’t seem to stop talking about it. These lucky few Americans who’ve enjoyed “The Queen of Fruits,” may wax rhapsodic, their eyes glazing over, in their search for words to convey the exquisiteness of its flavor, the luxury of its taste.

The rest of us will just have to take their word for it be-cause mangosteens have not been legal to sell in the United States. The culprit to blame is the Mediterranean Fruit Fly, a dangerous pest that could do some serious damage to US agriculture. Even if we can’t savor the flavor, we can fortify our bodies with the functional benefits. Mangosteen is an “off-the-charts” antioxidant available as either a juice or in capsules.

The juice is made from the snow-white interior of the fruit that pulls apart in segments much like an orange. However tasty the white flesh may be, like many other white foods, it is relatively low in nutrition. It’s the deep-red rind of the fruit that’s the source of nutritional benefits. Just like other fruits and vegetables with deep colors, the rind is rich in plant compounds that are powerhouse antioxidants.

The Good & the BadAntioxidants are the “good guys” in our diets—sub-

stances that neutralize damaging free radicals in the body. Some of the first antioxidants discovered were Vitamin C and Vitamin E. More recently, plant pigments, the things that produce the colors in fruits and vegetables, have been found to contain even more potent antioxidant ability. This provides scientific proof of the common-sense notion that a diet with a wide variety of deeply colored fruits and veg-etables is healthy.

Free radicals are the “bad guys,” naturally produced in the body by our regular functioning, simply by living. Free radicals are a normal part of life. We see their damage all around us from rust on steel to the brittleness of old plas-tic to the lines on our faces. Free radicals damage healthy

cells. They have been identified as major causes of disease and what we call aging (which may really be accumulated damage of free radicals over time). All the things we know are bad for us such as stress, smoking and exposure to pol-lutants increase production of free radicals in our body and can have long lasting, damaging effects. Antioxidants work to stop free radical damage; most people try to increase consumption of them.

Power UpThere is a laboratory test that measures the relative

antioxidant power of foods called the ORAC test (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity). Not surprisingly, iceberg lettuce has a low ORAC number while things such as blueberries have a high ORAC number. The US govern-ment has estimated that Americans should consume a diet that will provide them with a daily ORAC value of approxi-mately 13,000.

Mangosteen juice or capsules are sold in the US as dietary supplements and can provide a delicious and convenient way to boost the antioxidant content of your daily diet. A good method to use in evaluating a Mangosteen supplement is on the basis of that ORAC number. Look for a product that has the highest number possible. It helps ensure you’re getting the maximum antioxidant value. Nothing takes the place of eating pure, well-grown fruits and vegetables, but using a mangosteen supplement can provide a valuable, convenient way to boost the antioxidant content in your diet. Eat your antioxidants everyday and fight the effects of aging.

Ken Seguine lives in Prairie Farm, WI and has over 20 years experience in the natural products industry. He currently works as Director of Product Develop-ment for Ayurceutics, a line of herbal supplements. Ayurceutics Mangosteen capsules provide an ORAC value of over 129,000 per bottle and are available at B Natural and Just Local Foods in Eau Claire. Mangosteen juice products are widely available at health food stores and chiropractic offices.

Second Opinion | 8

healing foods

Eating raw foods is natural. Our bodies thrive on all that is fresh and vital. A raw food diet (or increasing the amount of raw food that you eat) is bound to bring a feeling of increased wellbeing.

Raw food diets are based on unprocessed and uncooked plant foods, preferably organic, such as a variety of fresh fruits and vegies, nuts, seeds, grains, dried fruit, fresh juices and purified water.

Why Raw Foods?Essentially a vegan diet, the raw food diet promotes

eating and drinking ‘living’ foods. Living foods and juices contain the maximum amount of fiber found in

raw produce, fiber that can be lost in processing. Such foods are easily metabolized and tend to be lower in calories than the aver-age diet.

Heating food above 116°F destroys enzymes in food that aid in digestion and in absorption of food, diminishing its nutritional value. At The Raw Deal, a raw foods restaurant/café in Menom-onie, they actually don’t heat any foods above 109°F. Ashley Score of The Raw Deal adds, “We are very careful about what we put in our menu items and how we prepare them, and we stand behind the belief that a raw foods diet is healthy for all.”

Benefits of a Raw Food DietA diet of at least 75% raw food offers numerous

health benefits, such as increased energy, improved skin appearance, better digestion, weight loss and reduced

risk of serious illnesses like heart disease, diabetes and cancer.A raw food diet contains little or no saturated fats, is low in

sodium, high in potassium, magnesium, folate and fiber. Raw food diets are also excellent detox diets. Different combinations of raw, living foods and juices can be used for colon cleansing, liver cleansing, kidney cleansing and skin cleansing.

The nutritional value of grains and seeds is impressive. They contain most of the vitamins – particularly A, B, and E. They’re also fantastic natural sources of unsaturated fatty acids, lecithin, and protein.

The Basics of a Raw Food DietAny fresh fruits, vegetables, grains, seeds, beans,

nuts, legumes, young coconut milk – even seaweed – can be menu items of a raw food diet. Your choice of

foods may depend on your reasons for dieting, for example: Sprouted brown rice slows glucose absorption and improves the

metabolism.- Cabbage supports healthy cellular function; radish leaves act

as an anti-oxidant, as does Shitake mushroom.-Carrots are a great source of vitamin A; they also encourage

healthy vision and a healthy cardio-vascular system.You can use a sprouter such as the Easy Green automatic

sprouter to sprout seeds, grains, beans – even wheatgrass. Sprouts could be called a ‘super food’ – organic sprouts contain enormous levels of proteins, vitamins, minerals, trace minerals, chlorophyll

Raw Food Diet – Eat Yourself HealthyBy Sara Schell

Second Opinion | 9

pigments and enzymes, and are the ideal natural supplement.Sprouts can be used in salads and soups or be juiced. Fresh

juices are a great ready energy supply, and a good quality juicer, such as the Kempo Greenpower juicer, produces living juices that are full of essential nutrients.

Essentially, the idea of a raw food diet is to eat unprocessed foods for at least 75% of the time. If the idea of raw food isn’t very appetizing to you, you can warm the food a little as long as the food isn’t heated above 116°F.

Cautionary NoteAs with any major change in diet, it’s wise idea to con-

sult your doctor before beginning a special diet. This is especially true for children, pregnant women, anyone with

anemia and anyone with a pre-existing medical condition. Even natural foods can conflict with certain medications, so consult your doctor or pharmacist if you’re taking any medication.

Because a raw food diet is detoxifying, some people suffer a mild detox reaction including mild headaches, nausea and crav-ings, which may last for several days. To get more enjoyment out of your raw food diet, cut down on things like meat, sugar and caffeine a week or so before commencing the diet. Also, because many of the foods for this particular type of diet are made from scratch there is some preparation time involved.

Last but Not LeastMany people agree that a raw food diet is a good way to

improve your overall health and wellbeing. Like anything worthwhile it takes time, energy and commitment. There

are many great products on the market that can help you prepare your own living food and save you some time as well.

Combined with regular exercise, a raw food diet is also an excel-lent weight loss method. If you’ve been feeling “a little off,” or just need a pick-me-up and some extra energy, a raw food diet may be a great choice for you.

Written by Sara Schell for World Wide Information Outlet www.certificate.net/wwio. Visit www.vitality4lifeshop.com.au/index.php for more information on healthy dieting or to view Vitality4Life’s healthy lifestyle accessories.

Canine Massage @The Beastro Dog Daycare

•Injury prevention and stretching•sports massage • post operation support•pre and post event massage

Banbury Place ~ Eau Claire www.the-beastro.com

715-864-3263

Organic Traditional FoodsOrganic Grassfed Meats & “Real Milk”Please call for Initial Visit (715) 568-1867

(Farm-Share Program)Kelwin, Nancy, Luke & Andrew Anderson

Wed-Sat 9:00 - 6:00 Bloomer, WIwestonaprice.org & realmilk.com email:farmkin@bloomer.net

Viking Brewing Co.

Dallas, Wisconsin

Brewery Tours Sat. at 1 PM20+ styles of unpasteurized beer

www.vikingbrewing.com715-837-1824

J.S. Bock - German Helles Bock

Weathertop Wheat - Dunkel WeizenSylvan Springs - Bohemian Pilsner

Wellness Therapy & Education ClinicA WELLNESS STORE

127 W. Central, Chippewa Falls715-720-0555 TUE - FRI 9-5, SAT 10-2

meadowblend.com

Nutritional ConsultationsNOW® Vitamins, Herbs, Essential OilsIonic Foot Detox, ReflexologyPersonal Care Products, Bulk HerbsSoaps, Lotions, Salves AND MORE...

Second Opinion | 10

VEGETABLESFRUITBEEF

Joinus at theWinterFarmer’sMarkets:March 8 - Hope United MethodistChurch, 2233 Golf Rd, Eau ClaireApril 12 - Trinity Lutheran Church, 1314E. Lexington, Eau Claire

Also find us at Just Local Food

1-888-255-0491

SOLD AT: Just Local Food, Eau Claire, WI

Menomonie Market, Menomonie, WIWhole Earth Co-op, River Falls, WI

River Market, Stillwater, MN

DIRECTLY FROM GUATAMALAN FARMERS

FarmerToFarmer.org

Available a t Just Local Food Co-op

Castle Rock Organic Dairy

Osseo, WI715-597-0085

www.castlerockfarms.netOpen 8 am - 8pm

7 days a week!

10% off Your First Home

Delivery PurchaseHome Delivery available in Eau Claire, Chippewa Falls, Altoona and outlying areas.

Call for details.

Homemade Ice Cream• Farm Fresh Eggs• Assorted Cheeses• Cheese Curds• Ogranic Milk• Cream•

Direct from the Farm to You. The Way Nature Intended.3rd AnnualLambing Time at the Farm

March 22nd -23rd and March 29th – March 30th from 10am - 4pm

Looking for a special field trip to the farm? Here at Govin’s we are opening our lambing barn to the public for tours. The children can enjoy seeing lambs nursing, bouncing around their mothers and learn more about these wooly creatures. It may be possible to witness the birth of a lamb. There will be baby chicks and other baby farm animals to see and touch.

All activities will be in the barn, so dress accordingly. Bring the family the weekend of March 22nd -23rd and March 29th – March 30th from 10am - 4pm.Group tours are available by appointment March through April for groups of 20 or more paid admissions.

For more information please call 715-231-2377

Cost $3.00/Person Children under 2 are free

Govin’s Meats & Berries John, Julie, Kyle and Clayton Govin

N6134 670th St. Menomonie, WI 54751

www.govinsmeatsandberries.com

Second Opinion | 11

Visit the Farm!

•FARM RETAIL SALES•TROUT ROUTE

We’ll Deliver Your Special Order to the Co-Op

•PONDSIDE FISHIN’Seasonal Hoots & Happenings

•GROUP OUTINGS& TOURS By Arrangement www.eatmyfish.com

715-664-8775Founder-Preservation

of Character...Using a rural way to

tell a story.

• ADVOCACY •• PROMOTION •• EDUCATION •

Dedicated to the Genius of "Bullfrog Fresh" Rainbow Trout, Smokin' Good Fish & More

Farmstead Mini-Factory

( 7 1 5 ) 2 8 6 - 4 0 0 7Watch Us Make

Your Cheese!

**Available at Just LocalFood in Eau Claire**

• Glass Bottles • Vat Pasturized • Non-Homogenized

“To ensure top quality we control all aspects of ourproducts, from growing

the crops that our cows eat,to processing our milk

right on the farm.”

Available @ Just Local Food Co-op

Osceola, Wisconsin 715-294-4090

Available a t Just Local Food Co-op

Golden Hills BuffaloNot just good, but Good for you!Our buffalo roam on grass pastures

and are rich in Omega 3 fatty acids which aregood for heart health.

Available at Just Local Food Co-opNutrition Facts (100 grams of meat)Bison: fat: 2.42 g; calories: 143; cholesterol: 82 gChicken: Fat: 7.41g; Calories: 190; Cholesterol: 89 g

N44867 Cty Rd EOsseo, WI

715-597-2517nfilla@triwest.net

Try our Freshly home-made jams & jellies too!Available at Just Local Food Co-operative

presenting

SommHerr'sDairy

GOAT CHEESE!A farmstead, artisan

cheese producedonly from our

own goats’ milk!Come Try It!

Douglas and Kim SjostromN469 300th StreetMaiden Rock, WI715-448-2517

Honey Hill ApairyHoney, Beeswax Candles

Available at Just Local Food

Castle Rock Organic Dairy

Osseo, WI715-597-0085

www.castlerockfarms.netOpen 8 am - 8pm

7 days a week!

10% off Your First Home

Delivery PurchaseHome Delivery available in Eau Claire, Chippewa Falls, Altoona and outlying areas.

Call for details.

Homemade Ice Cream• Farm Fresh Eggs• Assorted Cheeses• Cheese Curds• Ogranic Milk• Cream•

Direct from the Farm to You. The Way Nature Intended.

Second Opinion | 12

Eeek-oli!By Kathryn Flehmer

healing foodsIt has been just over 100 years since Upton Sinclair wrote

The Jungle. Page after page illustrates the dire sanitary state of meat-packing plants in the early 1900’s. Images of rat parts in the ground beef, human workers being sliced up along with the pork, and the occasional rodent poison that garnished the meat were seared into readers’ minds. The public outcry that resulted from Sinclair’s story prompted more state and national organizations to keep a closer eye on the practices. Since then, the meat-packing industry has, for the most part, kept up with codes and safer practices instilled by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Food and Drug Adminis-tration.

However, in 2007 there was a sudden sharp increase of E. Coli O157:H7 outbreaks in beef all across the United States. “So far this year, in some 20 recalls, ground beef compa-nies have recalled more than 30 million pounds of E. coli O157:H7-contaminated meat,” said top food poison lawyer William Marler of Marler Clark LLP, “including dozens of children who have undergone kidney dialysis as a result. This compares with just eight recalls and a total of 156,235 pounds in 2006.”

This makes 2007 one of the worst years on record (The News & Observer). E. coli 0157:H7 is a powerful toxin that can cause severe illness and is found in the intestines of cattle, deer, goats, and sheep. The disease is characterized by bloody diarrhea and abdominal cramps (Center for Disease Control).

So why is this trend reappearing in the meat world? Where does the root of the problem lie? To answer these questions, it is best to begin with one of 2007’s largest meat recalls, the second largest single recall in history (MSNBC).

In September 2007 Topps Meat Company, one of the na-tion’s largest frozen hamburger makers, recalled 21.7 million pounds of frozen ground beef. Due to the economic fallout, Topps was forced to declare bankruptcy in October. After preliminary investigation, it was discovered that Topps had stopped following some essential safety procedures. USA Today reported that Topps ground some meat into hamburger that tested negative for E. coli with meat that hadn’t been tested at all. They also tested for E. coli less frequently and failed to have adequate controls when grinding hamburger left from one day to the next. These changes in procedures went undiscovered by USDA inspectors who were at the plant daily.

Stephanie Smith is one of the many people infected by a food poisoning incident. Smith consumed two E. coli infected burgers purchased at a Sam’s Club in Minnesota in Septem-ber 2007. She now lies in a coma at St. Mary’s Hospital in Rochester. Smith’s mother, Sharon, sits by her daughter’s side every chance she gets.

“You go ‘why her?’ I wouldn’t care if it was me, because I’ve lived a good life,” Sharon told the St. Cloud Times. How-ever, Sharon isn’t angry at Sam’s Club or Cargill. She said she knows how terrible she’d feel if someone got sick from food she served.

Jacklyn Robinson, a student at the University of Wiscon-

Second Opinion | 13

sin-Eau Claire has also been affected by tainted food. Robinson said that she came down with food poisoning from eating chicken at an ethnic restaurant in downtown Chicago. “That night I felt fine,” Robinson said. “I woke up the next morning and could bare-ly move. I threw up from 10 a.m. that morning until about 4 p.m.” Robinson went to the emergency room the next day where she remained for three days undergoing tests and a series of medicines.

“I saw an infectious disease doctor multiple times throughout my stay in the intensive care unit who basically explained to me everything that was going on and what they had found through the tests,” Robinson said. Robinson also says that she now gets nervous to eat out and is very “hesitant” to eat certain foods.

So, why are more people getting so sick? Amanda Eamich, senior press officer for the Food Safety

and Inspection Service (FSIS), said that there has been a slight increase in E-coli 0157:H7 in 2007. In 2004-2006 the percent of positive test rates for E. coli O157:H7 was 0.17 percent. “This is about 20 positive E. coli results per 1,200 samples,” Eamich said. “Now it is about 0.22 percent which is up slightly, but is still a low number.” Eamich said that the FSIS doesn’t believe that the meat industry has gotten lazy since their 2002 assessment, but they are not yet sure what has caused the sudden increase in outbreaks.

Atty. Marler also said that there was not a clear answer as to

why there has been an uptick of E. coli outbreaks. “Some say that the health department is better at tracking the outbreaks,” Mar-ler said, “but that presupposes that the department wasn’t doing a good job tracking it in 2003-2006 [when there weren’t many recalls]. I don’t think it is a surveillance issue.”

Others theorize the increase of E. coli is related to the in-crease of production in ethanol plants. Cattle producers feed their livestock distiller’s grains, a byproduct of the ethanol distilling process. However, recent research at Kansas State University has found that cattle fed with distiller’s grain have an increased preva-lence of E. coli O157:H7 in their hindgut.

Two Kansas State professors have been testing distiller’s grain-fed cattle for 0157:H7. Through three rounds of testing, they said that the prevalence of this type of E. coli bacteria was twice as high in cattle fed distiller’s grain compared with cattle that weren’t given this grain (PHSYORG).

Marler mentions another possible cause for the E. coli surge. “In December 2006 and January 2007, the INS raided a bunch of slaughterhouses to look for illegal immigrants,” said Marler. “Many slaughterhouses had a lot of illegals working for them. The clamp-down had a ripple effect on other slaughterhouses. Now, these facilities had to find new, less experienced workers. These inexperienced workers don’t know how to kill and clean the

Decoding Meat PackagingOne way to avoid E. coli poisoning is to buy natural, local meat. If that’s not an option for you, knowing what you’re get-ting from the grocery store is a good start. Here’s a guide to help you know what meat packaging claims really mean.

Label The Claim What to Know

Antibiotic-free Animal was never given antibiot-ics to prevent infections

Antibiotics aren’t inherently dangerous, but they’re a public health concern because overuse can lead to antibiotic resistant bacteria.

Free-range The animal had some access to the outdoors for most of its life.

This only means the animal had the option of going outside – there’s no guarantee they actu-ally did.

Grass-fed For some or all of its life the ani-mal ate grass (not animal by-products).

Grass-fed beef has more omega-3 fats and higher amounts of vitamins A and E.

Hormone-free The animal didn’t receive hor-mones to augment growth.

There is some debate whether hormone resi-dues in meat are harmful. This claim on poultry or pork means nothing, because it’s illegal to give chickens and pigs hormones.

Natural The poultry or meat contains no artificial ingredients.

This vague term is not regulated, so read the fine print. Sometimes, “natural” just means no added colors.

Organic No hormones, antibiotics, or ani-mal by-products have been given to the animal, and it had access to fresh air and pasture.

This claim is government-regulated, but some feel it loses its meaning when “organic” food is shipped thousands of miles to your grocery store.

Second Opinion | 14

healing foods

animals as well.”Marler explained that E. coli gets on carcasses during the

slaughtering process. Once the carcasses leave the plant and go to a grinding facility, it becomes that facility’s problem. Grinding facilities and packing plants are supposed to take proper notes on where a shipment comes from so they know exactly what they ground when. This is supposed to make the tracking process easier if an E-coli contamination were to occur.

“Many places don’t keep the proper records,” said Marler. “If they can’t find out where something came from, they will get blamed for the contamination problem. If meat comes in bad, it will go out bad.” That was what happened with Topps Meat Company. Their entire record keeping system was “messed up,” Marler said, and they couldn’t tell what was being ground when, and where it was from.

The Boston Globe reported that some people feel that the government health agencies take too long tracking and letting the public know about E. coli outbreaks. Eamich does admit that the FSIS and USDA are trying to recall products more quickly. How-ever, Eamich says, the way in which recalls work is a naturally slow process.

If a consumer becomes ill enough to go to the hospital, there are a few things that need to be done. The hospital staff attempts to find out if food poisoning is the cause. Then, the hospital must narrow down the contamination source. It is hard to judge whether or not it is an isolated incident or if it was something that is more far-reaching. Then the proper authorities need to be noti-fied and the food source tracked down.

“With the way that illnesses are often reported it may take days, weeks, or longer to find out where the illness may be com-ing from, to find the specific food vehicle,” Eamich said. “To improve the ability to track food-related illnesses, the FSIS works with the CDC. There is a database used to track illness patterns

through hospitals.” Eamich said if a stool sample is taken, they are better able to make linkages between the illness and product. “We keep communication between public health providers and ourselves open to share and compare information,” Eamich said.

What is being done about recent E. coli outbreaks?

The FSIS have tried to increase their watch over meat packing facilities. “We are doing a more targeted sampling of the meat.” Eamich said, “We now test trim for e-coli in order to get closer to the source, as ground beef is made from the trim.”

The FSIS now completes a checklist for 15,000 plants to see what the plants’ policies are. Plants that have less strict policies may be looked at more closely, and the FSIS may do follow- up sampling. The FSIS has also tried to speed up their recall time. Eamich also encourages consumers to take their health into their own hands.

“With our new Be Food Safe campaign, we are hoping consumers will be more responsible in protecting themselves,” Eamich said. For example, Eamich said everyone must have a food thermometer. “Meat needs to be at 160 degrees.”

Because E. coli is a naturally occurring pathogen, Eamich says that it’s important to carry over safe practices to han-dling produce. “Wash your hands while handling foods like lettuce and tomatoes,” Eamich said. “Wash or use separate cutting boards when working with produce and meat. If you don’t take proper cleaning precautions, you are putting yourself and your family at risk.”

“There is a vaccine under development that limits E. coli growth in the gut of cows, reducing the amount to the winter (lower E. coli count) levels,” Marler said, “thus reducing the likelihood that it will set in the meat.” Marler stated that plants can institute tests to look for E. coli on the carcasses of animals. Marler added that holding a product after it has been tested is important as well.

green pages..conscious businesses dedicated to being natural, organic and local

Second Opinion | 15

green pages..conscious businesses dedicated to being natural, organic and localLocal Chocolates with Class

John Flynn may have had a school named after him (Flynn Elementary in Eau Claire), but there’s a chance he may be more proud of his daughter’s accomplishments than his own. Eau Claire native Rebecca Flynn is the owner of Obsession Chocolates located at 310 Water Street just across from the old Kerm’s in Eau Claire. This is not your ordinary candy or chocolate shop. The difference is in the details, Rebecca will tell you.

For starters, her truffles and sauces are made from all organic cream and butter from a local dairy. She also gets her herbs from a local organic grower, uses organic oranges for her candied orange peels, and buys all the fruits used in her chocolates from lo-cal farmers when they are in peak season (freezing them for use all year long). She special orders the highest quality cocoa and chocolate for her unique recipes that range from raspberry cardamom to Italian liqueur. She uses no corn syrup, opting instead for honey – again, from a local producer. “Using honey in my caramels makes them softer, chewier and more flavorful,” says Rebecca. And everything – that really means everything – is made from scratch, right down to the tasty cup of hot chocolate. Because of the lack of any preservatives or artificial ingredients in her chocolates, the shelf life is less than that of a commercially produced box of truffles. “Three weeks is what we recommend,” Rebecca says, “but they tend to get eaten much faster than that!”

Rebecca feels strongly that the high quality, organic ingredients and the careful preparation of the recipes make the difference be-tween ‘good’ and ‘excellent.’ “For example, the higher the percent of butter fat in the organic cream, the creamier and more intense the depth of flavor in the chocolates will be,” Rebecca explains. And she ought to know, since she’s on the verge of completing her Professional Chocolatier Course from École de Chocolat. It’s a degree held by many of the biggest names in chocolate, a highly ac-cepted sign of truly knowing the art of making chocolate.

Besides truffles, Obsession Chocolates offers chocolate sauces, barks, and baked goods such as muffins, cinnamon rolls, scones and cupcakes. Her truffles and baked goods have developed quite a name for themselves in the six months the shop has been open. Rebecca says, “We have a loyal following: our ‘Saturday morning cinnamon rolls’ group, our ‘get a chocolate before going to chemo’ customer, our ‘losing weight after the baby’ customer (I’m not kidding!), our sauce-a-holics who just can’t get enough of our very popular malted milk chocolate sauce, and so on.”

The only chocolatier in Eau Claire, Obsession Chocolates also mass produces their goodies for wedding and shower favors, as well as for local businesses and spas as customer appreciation gifts. When asked why she quit being a sous chef to her friend the former Executive chef at the White House or her private catering business to make chocolates full-time, she simply says, “Choco-late lifts people’s spirits. There’s a comforting, soothing aspect about it. The shop draws people in who need ‘something,’ and the joy I get from being able to give them that something special in their day makes me want to do this the rest of my life.”

Bring in this ad for 10% off any box of 4 or more truffles. (May not be combined with other offers. No cash value.) Exp 6/20/08.

Eau Claire’s Premier Chocolate Shop Gourmet treats made from scratch

right in Eau Claire by Chef Rebecca. Hand-crafted truffles made using

local organic cream & butter Heavenly dark & white barks

Delicious chocolate and caramel topping sauces for ice cream... & more!

310 Water St., Eau Claire; 715.514.1545 www.obsessionchocolates.com

Second Opinion | 16

Happen ings in the Va l ley March/April 2008 Events are subject to change; call ahead for details. Calendar event listings are free. Send your listing to a2ndopinion@gmail.com

March 1Health for Life: A Wellness Workshop Series; Natural Detoxification Methods, 12-2pm by Gigi Stafne, Naturopath & Master Herbalist@ Northwoods Naturals, LCO-Hayward. $25 ($15 students & seniors). Please register: 715.638.2587 or fireweed@citizens-tel.net

March 1-2Infant Massage Instructor TrainingMenomonie, WI; 3-day Certification; $500 per personRegister at 715-308-4189 (cell) or magichap-pens123@hotmail.com

March 3Early Home Care, 12:00 PM This class is required for all Morning Star fami-lies. Issues related to newborn and postpartum transition and early newborn care instruction. Register: 715.231.3100.

How to Improve Your Health the Natural Way, 7-9pm, $10Gain a good understanding of homeopathy and how it can ease chronic health prsoblems. Loca-tion: Chippewa Falls High School Library, By Marybeth Buchele, Health Naturally Home-opathy Services

March 5Aromatherapy in Everyday Life for Extraordi-nary Benefits6:30-8 pm $20. Therapeutic essential oils can re-duce stress & tension, relieve discomfort & pain, & more. All supplies included. Register by Mar. 3 at 715.720.3749.Location: Chippewa Falls High School Library, Instructor: Joyce Sobotta, Aromatherapy Nature’s Way

March 6Wellness Class I - Optimizing Your Health By Expanding Your Knowledge; Stucky Chiroprac-tic 715.835.9514

Exploring Yoga Nidra, 6:30-8:30 pm Instructor: Sandra Helpsmeet, Registration: 715-830-0321 or yoga@infinitejoy.com Yoga Nidra is a yogic practice that blends profound relaxation with clear consciousness. Benefits include release of chronic stress, a balancing and strengthening of the immune system, more rest-ful sleep, and greater sense of well-being. March 89:30-12:00 pm Instructor: Donna SachsYoga Off the Mat: Exploring the Yamas & Niya-mas, 9:30a-12pInstructor: Donna Sachs, Registration: 715-830-0321 or yoga@infinitejoy.com. In this philosophical discussion, we will examine limbs one and two of the eight-fold path, or the moral restraints and observances.

Yoga Workshop9 a.m. -12 p.m @. Gold’s Gym, Hamilton Ave.$50.00 members/$60.00 nonmembersCall 552-4570 to register“Deepen Your Practice” with Monique Max-well, a master yoga instructor for 14 years, who

brings a strong background in Iyengar, Hatha, and Ashtanga Yoga, and the healing arts.

NEW! Adopt -A-Bucket, 10 am – noon Wise Nature Center, 715.877.2212Kick off the maple syrup season; decorate a bucket & help tap a tree. March 8thRaindrop Therapy Class, 9am-4pmUnity Christ Center in EC, Cost $260Achieve optimal health with this effective heal-ing technique! Very limited seating: register at 715-834-0883 or www.jodyhagedorn.com

March 8-9Child Birth Education Weekend, 9:00 AM A condensed 12 hour Childbirth Preparation class for first time and repeating birthing women and their support person at Morning Star. Regis-tration required 715.231.3100.

March 12Native Bay Cooking Classes 6-9 pmHerbs, Spices & Seasonings. $30. Registration required, limited spaces: info@nativebayrestau-rant.com or 715.726.0434

Bocks Tasting - Hay Market Grill, 715.552.3400

Discovery Workshop: An experiential hands-on workshop using acombination of breath, touch, movement and focus to create and allow inner awareness. Cost $35 1:23pm, Helios Wellness Center, to regis-ter call 715-235-7333. March 13Native Bay’s Brewery Dinners: Bell’s Brewing Co4 courses - $35 per person starts at 6:30 pm. Reservations:info@nativebayrestaurant.com or 715-726-0434

Discovery Workshop: An experiential hands-on workshop using acombination of breath, touch, movement and focus to create and allow inner awareness. Cost $35 6:23pm, Helios Wellness Center, to regis-ter call 715-235-7333. Belgian Beer Dinner, $60 per person, limited seats, reservations required. Hay Market Grill, 715.552.3400

Handling Complications, 4:00pm - 5:30pmRequired for all Morning Star families. Learn how to minimize your risks and how Morning Star handles complications. 715.231.3100

March 14-15EFT/YLEO, 9am-noon each day2318 Melanie Lane #2 in Eau Claire. $20Learn the fastest growing, most effective technique on this planet! We combine EFT and Young Living Essential oils to bring emotional imbalances to the surface and TAP them out of your consciousness! Limited seats. Register at 715-834-0883 or www.jodyhagedorn.com

March 15Celebrate Spring Naturally, 10a-12p, Wise Na-ture Center, 715.877.2212Back by popular demand! Spend the morning with your favorite young person at the Reserve handcrafting eggs – just in time for the upcom-ing holiday. Full payment at registration. Friends $6 Nonmembers $8 March 17Owl Prowl, 7 p.m. Wise Nature Center, Beaver Creek ReserveJoin a staff naturalist on a short hike as we listen and hoot for owls in the neighborhood. Fol-lowed by a movie indoors. Appropriate for adults and upper elementary school age children. Guest appearances expected! Full payment and registration due by March 14. Members Adult $5 Child $3 Nonmembers Adult $7 Child $4

Native Bay Cooking Class: Preserving the Bounty$50/person, limited seats; info@nativebayrestau-rant.com or 726-0434

March 18HOLISTIC MOMS NETWORK, 6:30 pmAir and Water: What’s best for your family? Amber De’Briyn will teach about distilled, filtered, purified, bottled, and tap + purification options. For info: 715.836.7645 – held @ 1005 Oxford Ave. Eau Claire,

UWEC Sessions Classes are bundled, No last minute sign up

April 10 & April 17thtools to tame stress, Hilltop Lounge 6pm-8pm $18.00 UWEC Students & Faculty/Staff, $27.00 Community Members

April 7, 14, 21, 28 & May 5restorative yoga, 5:15pm-6:15pm Hilltop Lounge $25.00 UWEC Students & Faculty/Staff, $40.00 Community Members

Other SessionsApril 7, 2008 - May 30, 2008Body & Soul FitneSS Spring SeSSion inFo

Mon, Wed, Fri: 8:30-9:45 a.m. Chippewa VallEy Bible Church, 531 E South Ave, Chippewa Falls. Combine safe, effective aerobic exercise and strength training to contemporary Christian music. Join at any time; classes are designed for all fitness lev-els. For more info: 715.726.0566 or www.bodyandsoul.org.

Second Opinion | 17

Motivation Magic, Heaven Sent Hypnotherapy, $20 + free cd, 630-8pmBy the time you leave this workshop you’ll feel like the energizer bunny who just keeps going and going and going!! Preregistration by March 17th is required online at www.heavensenthyp-notherapy.com or by phone 715-833-1096.

March 19Spring Cleaning with Essential Oils and Natural Products10:30a-12p & 6:30-8p; Fee $20; Learn every-thing essential can do for your health and home.Create products to take home, Supplies included. Presented by Carol Langkamp and Joyce Sobotta @ Wholistic Healing Arts Center, 1119 Regis Ct #210. To register: 878-4474 or 852-0577.

Now That’s What We’re Talking About : An information filled class where we weave the science, research, philosophical meaning and individuality of Network Spinal Analysis and Somato-Respiratory Integration Care offered at the Helios Wellness Center FREE 1:23 pm

March 20Mother’s Tea, 12pm - 2pmWatch for flyers! Morning Star Birth Center, 715.231.3100

March 21NATURAL MEDICINE FREE CLINIC DAYS, 10a-12p, 1-6pNo Insurance? Underinsured? No coverage for Prevention Medicine?Wellness Education~Botanical Medicine~Naturopathy@ Northwoods Naturals, Hwy K, Hayward-LCO , WI, Free.Must register for appts.: 715.967.2300 or fire-weed@citizens-tel.netPractitioners: Gigi Stafne, Director & MH Graduates/Students

March 22Siblings at Birth, 10a This class is for children Ages 4-12 who are planning to attend the birth of their sibling, or for parents who just want their older children to know more about birth. Morning Star Birth Center, 715.231.3100

Health for Life: A Wellness Workshop SeriesThe Eco/Green Home: Is Your Environment Toxic? Noon-2pmNational Instructor: Gigi Stafne, Naturopath & Master HerbalistLocation: Northwoods Naturals, Hwy K, LCO-Hayward, WI All workshops $25 ($15 students & seniors). Register at 715.638.2587

Heavenly Contacts - John Edwards Style, Heaven Sent Hypnotherapy, $30, 1-4pm. In this workshop you will be connecting with angels and/or loved ones who have crossed over. Preregistration by March 21st is required online at www.heavensenthypnotherapy.com or by phone 715-833-1096. March 25Wellness Class II - Eating Well; Stucky Chiro-practic: 715.835.9514

LUNCH & LEARN—GLUTEN FREE, 12-1p

Lareen Marva, owner Bittersweet Bakery in Eagan, MN, will share her success story and information on eating gluten-free. @ WEST-consin Credit Union, East Branch conf. room, 3333 Schneider Avenue, Menomonie. $10, pre-registration by March 20th required. Includes gluten-free lunch. Vegetarian options. Call 715-235-6533 to register.

Optimal Health Fair 12:15- 12:45 p.m. Presentation by Chippewa Valley’s most experienced hypnotherapist, Richard Marano, B.S., C.H. “What Is Hypnosis And How Can It Help Me?” Held at UW- Stout, Menomonie, WI. Info or directions call 715 232-1465 It will be held at the Sports & Fitness Center, MPR Gym Room 50 lower level. For further information about hypnosis 715 552-5355.

March 29Restorative Yoga Workshop 12-3 pm, $30At Yoga Center of Eau Claire; to register: Patricia.wickman@gmail.com or 715.830.0706. appropriate for people with all levels of yoga experience. Give yourself some rest and relax-ation and learn practical tools to help you stay centered, healthy, and at ease in your life.

March 30Maple Syrup Sunday, 1-3 p.m. Wise Nature Center, 715.877.2212Bring the family to explore the tradition of maple sugaring with a guided tour of the sugar bush. Finish with a fresh maple syrup sundae!Full payment & registration by Mar. 27. Friends $5 Adult/$3 Child; Nonmembers $7 Adult/$4 Child

April 2Mind-Body-Spirit Connections for Emotional Well Being6:30-8:00 at Chippewa Falls High School Li-brary, $20. Presented by Joyce Sobotta. Register at 715-720-3749. Many chronic physical prob-lems have an emotional component which the body holds in its subconscious. Therapeutic es-sential oils and "Emotional Freedom Technique" can release these patterns. All supplies included.

April 4-6Infant Massage Instructor TrainingStevens Point, WI; 3-day Certification; $500 per personRegister at 715-308-4189 (cell); magichap-pens123@hotmail.com

April 5-6Healing Touch workshops. 8am-6pm at Luther Hospital, Levels 1, 2, and 3 will be held. For more information, call Sue Peck 715-836-5375 or pecksd@uwec.edu

April 5Angel Connections, Heaven Sent Hypnotherapy, $25, 1-4pmIn this workshop we will explore your sixth sense and how to develop this basic instinct which we all have. Once developed it can be a powerful tool in helping you make good deci-sions and live the life you were meant to be living. Preregistration by April 4th is required online at www.heavensenthypnotherapy.com or by phone 715-833-1096.

April 6Workshop with Scott Anderson, 9-11 am & 1-4 pmRegister at 715-830-0321 or email yoga@infinitejoy.com

April 8Wellness Class III - Moving Well; Stucky Chiro-practic: 715.835.9514

April 9Native Bay Cooking Class: Dressings & Vinai-grettes$40. Register at: info@nativebayrestaurant.com or 726.0434.Discovery Workshop: An experiential hands-on workshop using acombination of breath, touch, movement and focus to create and allow inner awareness. Cost $35 1:23pm, Helios Wellness Center, to register call 715-235-7333.

Managing Dis-ease in Your Body, Heaven Sent Hypnotherapy, $20 + free cd, 630-8pmDo you need help managing dis-ease in your body? This is the perfect workshop for you! Preregistration by April 8th is required online at www.heavensenthypnotherapy.com or by phone 715-833-1096.

April 10LUNCH & LEARN—NATURAL SKIN CARE ESSENTIALS, 12-1pJoiLynn Hamill, Twin Cities-based licensed cosmetologist for nearly 30 years, will share the benefits of natural skin and personal care prod-ucts for men, women and children. Free product! WESTconsin Credit Union, 3333 Schneider Av-enue, Menomonie. $10, pre-registration by April 7th is required. Includes lunch from Menomonie Market. Vegetarian options available. Call to register 715-235-6533.

Discovery Workshop: An experiential hands-on workshop using acombination of breath, touch, movement and focus to create and allow inner awareness. Cost $35 6:23pm, Helios Wellness Center, to register call 715-235-7333.

April 11-12Metamorphosis with Cindy Silverlock, 9a-4p each day. $325A unique non-verbal approach to letting go of unconscious patterns that impede your lifestyle. As you change, the world changes! Sponsored by Jody Hagedorn. Register at 715-834-0883 www.jodyhagedorn.com

April 15HOLISTIC MOMS NETWORK, 6:30pLean how your family can benefit from natu-ral, safe, and effective holistic dentistry. “Life changing” information, don’t want to miss this one! By Dr. John Laughlin of Health Center Holistic Dentistry. 1005 Oxford Ave. Eau Claire,

April 16Spring Wine Dinner$50/person. Hay Market Grill, 715.552.3400

April 17Native Bay’s Brewery Dinners: Rush River Brewery: 4 courses - $35/person, starts at 6:30 pm. Call

Second Opinion | 18

for reservationsinfo@nativebayrestaurant.com | 726-0434.

April 23Spring Seasonal Tasting, Hay Market Grill, 715.552.3400

Now That’s What We’re Talking About : An informa-tion filled class where we weave the science, research, philosophical meaning and individuality of Network Spinal Analysis and Somato-Respiratory Integration Care offered at the Helios Wellness Center FREE 1:23 pm

April 24Wellness Class IV - Thinking Well; Stucky Chiroprac-tic 835.9514

April 25 NATURAL MEDICINE FREE CLINIC, 10a-12p, 1-6p Wellness Education~Botanical Medicine~Naturopathy@ Northwoods Naturals, Hwy K, Hayward-LCO. Free. Register for appts.: 715.967.2300 or fireweed@citizens-tel.net

April 26Health for Life: A Wellness Workshop SeriesEat Your Weedies! Wild Edibles & Herbs, 12p-2pNational Instructor: Gigi Stafne, Naturopath & Master Herbalist - @ Northwoods Naturals, Hwy K, LCO-HaywardAll workshops $25 ($15 students & seniors). Register at 715.638.2587 or fireweed@citizens-tel.net

Ayurveda and the Chakras , 12-3p Instructor: Patricia Wickman; register @ 715-830-0321 or email yoga@infinitejoy.com; Root out old, past, negative emotions that keep you from advancing along your life's journey. Obtain practical tools for how to "spring-clean" yourself at a deep, cellular level. We will review the chakras, talk about lifestyle and nutrition choices that target specific chakra centers, do movement and guided imagery.

April 30Meet n’ Eat sponsored by Wisconsin Wellness Direc-tory hosted at Sacred Heart Center for Healthy Living on Wednesday 6-8pm, FREE. Call Sacred Heart to register...858-1600.

Weekley/Monthly eventsSpirituality diScuSSion group MeetingEvery Wednesday, 7 pm - 10 pm FREEBorders Bookstore, Eau Claire715.832.7250An informal gathering to discuss Angels, healing, paranormal and psychic phenomena, and other fun topics.

Healing cHoiceS tai cHi claSSeS2711 Pleasant Street • Eau Claire852-0303 • All classes 1 hour.Mondays: 6:00pm & 7:00pmWednesdays: 10:00am & 11:00amThursdays: 6:00pm & 7:00pm

pilateS yoga and Beyond4913 River Glen Court, Eau Claire, WI 54703832-7335. Drop-in rate $15.00Mon – Yoga, 5:00pmWed – Yoga, 4:15pm Pilates, 5:30 pmThur – Yoga/Pilates, 12 noonSat – Pilates – 8:00 am Yoga 9:00 amIf you are new to the studio, please call (715.832.7335) or sheri@baemmert.com in advance to register.

nia claSSeSStacey Beck, 533-0464 Tuesday 6:15-7:15pm Thursday 5:45-6:45 pm.Open to members and non-members • Highland Fitness, Eau Claire

HypnoSiS today with Richard Marano B.S., C.H. from Hypnosis Center of Eau ClaireEvery Wednesday - 8pm & every Friday at 11am CTV(Channel 11)

yoga every Wednesday at 9:30am-11:00am at the Unity Christ Center, 1808 Folsom Street, Eau Claire (715)836-0010

tHe yoga center412 1/2 Water Street • Eau Claire • 830-0321Mondays:8:00 - 9:00am Pilates9:30 - 11:00am Breathing - Patricia12-12:45pm Beginning Yoga - Sarah1:00- 2:00pm Chair Yoga@Senior Center5:30-7:00pm Continuing Yoga7:15-8:45pm Multi-level YogaTuesdays:5:15 - 6:45pm Multi-level Yoga7:00 - 8:30pm MeditationWednesdays:9:00 - 10:30a Multi-level Yoga 5:30 - 7:00p Beginners YogaThursdays:7:00 - 8:30a Multi-level Yoga5:00 - 6:00p YogilatesFriday:9:00 - 10:30a Ayurveda & Yoga12-12:45p Multi-level Yoga - SarahSunday5:15-6p Basic Meditation6-7p Yoga book discussion group

Morning StarS - North-woods - First WedneSday, 830-930 am

Week-end WarriorS - Acoustic Café,- SaturdayS, 10:00-11:00 am

nigHt oWlS - Borders - 3rd Monday, 6:00-7:00 pm

luncH BuncH - The Goat Coffee House - Last WedneS-day, 12:00-1:00 pm

MediuMSHip Every 3rd tHurSday, 7-8pm FREE Come and learn more about mediumship, the different energies that surround us and how to connect with loved ones who have passed. Call 715-833-1096 or geiglej@yahoo.com to register.

Wine & WellneSS, 1st Fri-day of every month, 7-8pm FREE. Revolutionizing the way we get fruits & veg-etables in our diet!! Wine & h’ordoerves provided. Space Limited - Call 715-833-1096 or geiglej@yahoo.com to register.

La Leche League10 am on the 3rd Monday of each month. Hoe United Methodist Church, 2233 Golf Rd, Eau Claire. Visit www.llusa.org/web/EauClaireWI.html

Nourish, balance and cleanse your body withwhole food organic nutrition.

Feel the benefit of over 100 plants!

For more information or an appointment, Pamela Jaffke, DVM Owen, WI

888-901-4195 p_jaffke@yahoo.com

Sunrider®Regenerative

Whole Food Nutrition

Store Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-6pm Saturday 9:30am-5pm

Eclectica on Grand 106 West Grand Avenue, Eau Claire • (715) 834-7811

Looking for a one-of-a-kind gift for a special person? Eclectica offers: Exotic Sterling & Stone Jew-elry, Exquisite Antiques, Local Historical Items & Quaint Kitchenalia . . . in all price ranges. Come enjoy a walk into the extraordinary . . .

Second Opinion | 19

Govin's Meats & Berries John and Julie Govin Family

N6134 670th Street Menomonie, WI 54751

715-231-BERRY(2377) www.govinsmeatsandberries.com

Pasture Raised Beef, Lamb & Pork Free-Range Chicken & Turkey

Strawberries & PumpkinsLambing Barn Tours

Our Animals Graze Their Grasses Off!

Second Opinion | 20

Here is a little chair yoga practice that you can try.

Take two folding chairs and set them • up one behind the other, like seats in a bus. Leave room to stand between them. Stand with your feet under your hips and parallel. Press the four corners of you feet into the floor. Feel the way your leg muscles begin to hub the bones, helping to send the support from your ‘roots’ up into your pelvis and spine. Keep pressing your feet

downward and let the next exhalation be more full and complete, feeling the rib cage release inward and down-ward. Enjoy the way the next inhala-tion spreads through the torso. Do that several times. Place you hands on your hips, finding • with your fingertips the ‘crease’ where your legs join your torso. Keep press-ing your feet down and as you exhale, begin to sit, knees and hips bending. Keep your spine long and your ster-

num lifting. Go about halfway down into your ‘sit,’ and on the inhalation, come back up to standing. Repeat several times.The next time you exhale and begin to • sit, don’t come up. After you inhale, keep your legs steady, feet pressing and spine long while you continue to bend your hips. Your torso will come out over the chair in front of you, sort of parallel to the floor. If you need to support your self, place your hands

Chair YogaBy Sandra Helpsmeet

body balance

412 1/2 Water St.715.830.0321

Eau Claire, WI 54701infinitejoy.com/yoga

14 weekly classes!Yoga, Pilates, Ayurveda, Breathing, Meditation

and Philosophy.“Experience yoga as it is”

Introductory Offer

30 daysfor $30

+

Every Monday just before 1:00 PM, a group of people gath-er at the Senior Center in Eau Claire. The room is prepared for them, two chairs set out for each person. They get a basket of golf balls out of the equipment closet. Each person takes a ball back to their chairs, sits down, places the ball on the floor, and begins to massage the bottom of a foot by rolling the ball between the foot and the floor as they chat together. By the time I arrive, their feet are open and ready to ground and their nervous systems have begun to shift into balance.

This is Chair Yoga, a yoga class for people who can’t or don’t want to get down on the ground. The entire practice is done either sitting on a chair or standing. The second chair is used in a variety of ways as a prop. We begin, as I begin all yoga classes, by grounding and finding our breath. As Mat-thew Sandford, author of Waking: A Memoir of Trauma and Transcendence, parapalegic and yoga teacher of people with disabilities says, “Being present in your body is the best and most effective way to combat stress.” And anyone, anywhere on the abled or disabled continuum, can learn to be present in their body. Certainly one would do well to practice yoga taking full advantage of one’s ability level, but yoga does not require anything but that we are present with ourselves. As a matter of fact, yoga in ancient times in India did not include the poses that come to mind first when we think of yoga now-adays. The central practice of yoga was sitting meditation.

Second Opinion | 21

Enjoy March Madness. Love the rapid pace action of college basketball. Put on your cap and revel

in the fun of your team winning. Thrill to the rush of a close score. But don’t let your betting become the rule instead of the exception.

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on the back of the chair in front of you, but don’t round your spine. Keep drawing your belly forward. Stay here and press your feet down while you press your sitbones up. If you can’t feel your sitbones from the inside, touch them with your fingertips to find them. Stay for several breaths. To come up, press your feet down, inhale, and stand up by opening the hinge of your hip joints again. Sit on your chair and find your sitbones with your fingertips. • Move clothing and flesh back out of the way so that you can feel them on the chair. Press the front edge of the sitbones down into the chair. Let the inner edge of the top of the thigh bone feel heavy in the hip joint. Notice how your spine lifts. Stay several breaths.Walk your sitbones back on the chair as far as you can, but • don’t lean onto the chair back. Keep pressing your sitbones down and feeling your spine lift. Imagine a weight tied to your tailbone, drawing it downward. On an exhalation, lean back onto the chair back, letting your arms fall behind the edges of the chair back. Let your chin come toward your chest until your neck and head are comfortable. Stay here and breathe a few breaths. To come up, move your arms to the front of the chair back and use hands and elbows and sitbones to press yourself upright again. Move your sitbones forward on the chair seat a few inches. • Let your arms hang at your sides and keep your sitbones

pressing down. Move your shoulders up slightly and the top of the arm bones back slightly. Lift your right elbow up toward the ceiling (or lift your shoulder if this is not com-fortable for you). Let the left arm hang heavily at your side, and let your head turn to look down at the floor on your left. Stay a few breaths, then inhale back to the starting position. Repeat on the other side. Place your hands on the tops of your knees, inhale and • lengthen your spine upward. Take your knees and feet as wide apart at the chair legs. Exhale and fold at the hinge of your hips, drawing your belly and breastbone forward. Come over until your can rest your forehead on your arms folded on the top of the chair back in front of you. Stay as long as you like, breathing smoothly, letting tension drain out from your forehead. To sit up again, place hands back on knees, inhale and come up. Sit quietly for a few breaths with eyes closed.

Sandra Helpsmeet, LMFT, RYT, is a psychotherapist at South-Woods Counseling Clinic and owner and instructor at The Yoga Center of Eau Claire.

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Second Opinion | 22

healing paths

In the early 1990’s a man named Gary Craig began experimenting with using meridians in a person’s body to find greater healing. A Stanford engineering graduate and an ordained minister, his journey along the path of healing discovery has been long. He became a Certified Master Practitioner of Neuro Linguistic Programming(NLP), studied many different ways of successfully tapping into thoughts and body energy to achieve healing, and eventually developed the Emotional Freedom Techniques based on the core of knowledge he acquired from studying Thought Field Therapy (TFT).

Less than 20 years later, EFT has gained considerable attention around the globe and has become popular among “normal people” like you and me as well as a variety of health and mental health professionals. Now known as one of the most effective healing modalities, EFT practitioners often combine it with Reiki, reflexology, Raindrop Therapy, and more to increase the “potency” of the treatment. With endorsements from big names like Deepak Chopra, Norman Shealy, and even some traditional MD’s, it’s difficult to ignore the growing success and popularity of EFT. But let’s back up a little first. What is EFT and what does it do?

What Is It? Also known as “tapping,” Emotional Freedom Techniques, or EFT, is based on a discovery that provides relief from pain, diseases and emotional issues. It’s basically an emotional version of acupuncture. Instead of using needles, well-established energy meridian points on your body are stimulated by tapping on them with the fingertips. The process is easy to memorize and can be done anywhere. The EFT Discovery Statement explains the foundation for this technique: “The cause of all negative emotions is a disruption in the body’s energy system.” Further: “Our unresolved negative emotions are major contributors to most physical pains and diseases.”

Gary Craig has drawn these common-sense conclusions from (1) time-honored Eastern discoveries that have been around for over 5,000 years and (2) Albert Einstein, who told us back in the

1920’s that everything (including our bodies) is composed of energy. These ideas have been largely ignored by Western Healing Practices, which is one reason why EFT often works where nothing else will.

How Does It Work? A practitioner taps on nine designated areas meant to stimulate specific meridians of the body.

While tapping, the practitioner discusses with the patient, using specific leading phrases designed to help the patient “tap into” emotional issues that

may be causing illness or imbalance in their bodies. While these phrases are called “affirmations,” they are not positive statements, as EFT is

not designed to take people in positive directions. Its purpose is to eliminate the negative and pave the way for the positive. This requires the patient

“tune in” to the problem. The energy balancing effect of the tapping for a problem would be of little use if the person did not allow their body to feel the effects of the problem. For example, in order to balance a spider phobia, it’s important for the person to tune in to how they feel about spiders. Maybe their heart will start pounding, they might start to sweat, etc. As the mind and body exhibit their imbalance associated with that phobia, the tapping can re-establish true balance. The energy disruptions must be present to truly address the problem.

How long a patient receives EFT therapy varies according to their issues; however, the results are generally long-lasting. A standard session lasts one hour and may provide results that last a week, month, year or more, depending on the problem being addressed and the patient’s willingness to completely tune into their issues.

Is It Proven? Visiting www.emofree.com will put at your access scores of success stories that defy many logical ideas of Western medicine. Nonetheless, you will find people from all sorts of backgrounds who have tried EFT (whether they were skeptical or not) and experienced great success. Ministers, psychologists, M.D.’s, life coaches, lay citizens and more!

Exploring EFTby Jody Hagedorn

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Though EFT was originally developed to help primarily emotional and mental health issues, it has proven to be exceptionally effective with physical illness as well. Though it’s not 100% successful, it has been used to resolve pain, emotional issues, phobias, addictions, and even illnesses such as cancer.

Since the building blocks of all matter (including human bodies) are atoms and since atoms are made of energy, it’s easy to scientifically understand how addressing the energy in our body affects the makeup of our atoms, including matter in our body that might have illness (i.e., cancer, infection, etc.). Even though the human body appears to be solid, its foundation is made of energy – this is one of the most universally agreed upon scientific findings. This simple fact is one of the most universally agreed upon findings in the science; however, the Western healing sciences they continue to regard the human body as a physical entity and discard its energy roots. EFT’ers, on the other hand, have been viewing the body as an energy configuration for years and the clinical evidence is mountainous.

What Does This Mean for Traditional Practices?EFT’ers don’t ignore the benefits of modern science and

medicine, nor do they ignore the discoveries of the Eastern hemisphere that are thousands of years older than our traditional approaches. Instead, EFT is designed to use and build upon knowledge we already have, continuing the path of discovery and evolution in science and medicine. Think about how science evolves. Someone makes a discovery and builds a theory to support or explain it. Later, someone else might play with that theory and make a subsequent discovery that leads to another theory and so forth. Science moves forward along a path which eventually perfects that original idea or theory. The Wright

Brothers would be astonished if they could see the modern day evolution of their original “flying machine,” as would Thomas Edison if he could see modern-day fluorescent and LED lighting solutions! Energy tapping therapies are no different.

Think of the implication the effectiveness of EFT has for the medical world. The rapidity in which results are often experienced would allow health professionals to see and treat more patients more quickly. It’s not going to put anyone out of business – it’s only going to help them do more business better! I think Gary Craig sums up the cusp of EFT well: “I’m not saying here that EFT is perfect. We don’t get 100%. But it usually works well and the results are sometimes spectacular. It often works where nothing else will and it represents a Doorway to your new Healing High-Rise.” Why not try it for yourself? There are no side effects and results could be truly miraculous.

With over 20 years experience in the healing arts, Jody Hagedorn is a full-time Certified Reflexologist and Usui Reiki Master located in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. She integrates EFT, Raindrop Therapy and the above mentioned therapies into her practice to create a loving environment for clients of all ages and backgrounds to heal and be well.

Important note: While EFT has produced remarkable clinical results, it must still be considered to be in the experimental stage. Please consult qualified health practitioners regarding your use of EFT.

To learn more about EFT or to become a certified EFT practitioner: www.mercola.com/forms/eftcourse.htm, www.emofree.com, www.jodyhagedorn.com

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Second Opinion | 24

beauty natural

There’s no good way to hide the blistery, unattractive, and both-ersome red cold sores that are a result of herpes simplex virus known as type 1. Also known as fever blisters, cold sores can pop up on people’s lips, noses, gums, or roof of the mouth. They’re so contagious that about 90% of all Americans are exposed to this virus by age five. Once you’ve caught it, you’ve got it for life, and it has the potential to lie dormant or flare up at any time. So what can be done about these nasty eruptions? You might want to apply a sunscreen-containing lip balm, protect nose and mouth from the cold with a scarf, or try some of the following natural remedies.

AromatherapyLos Angeles aromatherapist Michael Scholes, who owns an or-

ganization called Aromatherpay Seminars and trains profession-als in the use of essential oils, suggests using tea tree, bergamot, geranium, rose and Melissa oils. A single drop of any of these oils should be applied first thing in the morning and again at bedtime.

Food TherapyDr. Ear Mindell, professor of nutrition at Pacific Western Univ-

eristy in L.A. and author of several nutrition books including Earl

Mindell’s Food as Medicine, suggests eating more yogurt. “The acidophilus in the live cultures acts as a natural antibiotic to the virus that causes cold sores,” he explains. He also recommends avoiding foods that may trigger flare ups. Arginine-rich foods like cola, chocolate, peanuts and cashews, beer, gelatin, and peas should be eliminated altogether during an outbreak and otherwise avoided. (The virus needs arginine to thrive.)

Herbal TherapyLemon balm ointment is commonly used by Europeans to treat

cold sores caused by herpes simplex virus. The leaves and flower tops have antibacterial and antiviral properties, explains Dr. Varro E. Tyler, professor of pharmacognosy at Purdue. Though the ointment is difficult to find in the States, you can get simi-lar results by treating cold sores with a wash made from strong lemon balm tea. Pour ½ cup of boiling water over two to three teaspoons of finely cut dried leaves, let steep 20-30 minutes, strain out the dried herb and let the tea cool. Dip a clean cotton cloth into the tea and dab on the cold sore several times a day.

HydrotherapyDr. Agatha Thrash, medical pathologist and co-founder and co-

director of Uchee Pines Institute for natural healing in Alabama suggests rubbing an ice cube over the area for 10 minutes three times a day as soon as you feel the cold sore coming on. Dr. Thrash indicates treating it early on can prevent it from erupting.

HomeopathyMitchell Fleisher, a family practice physician and homeopath

in Virginia recommends using a damp cotton swab to apply two to three drops of 10% tincture of Calendula to the sore as needed. Calendula is easy to find at health food stores and online.

Vitamin and Mineral TherapyDr. Richard Fischer, president of the International Academy of

Oral Medicine and Toxicology and a dentist in Virginia recom-mends taking two 500-mg. tablets of L-lysine per meal after the cold sore heals as a preventative measure. It’s best for those who experience frequent sore outbreaks.

Natural Treatments for Unsightly Cold SoresBy Jennifer Quinlan

Second Opinion | 25

What* Lemon Balm (Melissa Officnalis)

L-Lysine Zinc Oxide

Why This remedy contains antiviral properties that may inhibit the growth of the cold sore virus by preventing it from attaching to nerve cells.

A good option for those who experience frequent outbreaks, L-lysine is an amino acid that blocks arginine.

Zinc’s reputed antiviral properties seem to inhibit the herpes virus’s ability to reproduce.

Evidence Phytomedicine journal published a 1999 study concluding that treatment with topical lemon balm reduced the size and number of blisters, decreased pain, and ac-celerated healing time.

Researchers at Indiana School of Medicine found that taking L-Lysine daily for six months reduced the number of herpes flare-ups. When participatns di

A 2001 Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine study found topical zinc oxide applied at the first sign of a flareup lessened se-verity of symptoms and shortened outbreaks.

Caveats Though uncommon, an allergic reaction to topical lemon balm is possible.

Avoid if you are pregnant or nurs-ing. Check with a doctor if you have liver or kidney disease.

May cause excessive dryness or irritation in the treated area, but those effects should clear up within a few days of stopping treatment.

Using It At first sign of pain or tingling, apply cream containing a 70:1 ration of lemon balm extract 2-4 times a day. Try Enzymatic Therapy’s Cold Sore Relief.

Take 1,000 mg three times a day. One recommended brand: Solgar 1,000-mg tablets.

Apply to areas every 2-3 hours until sores heal. Try Novitra Maximum Strength Cold Sores Cream with Active Zinc.

*Information taken from Natural Health magazine, May 2007 To learn more: New Choices in Natural Healing, edited by Bill Gottlieb of Prevention magazine, www.ada.org/public/topics/mouth_sores.asp, and kidshealth.org.

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Second Opinion | 26

healthy family

Skin stimulation is one of the earliest developed and most fundamental func-tions of the body. Stimulation of the skin is, in fact, essential for adequate organic and psychological development, both for animals and human beings. When asked what he thought of infant mas-sage, anthropologist Ashley Montague commented, “People don’t realize that communication, for a baby, the first communications it receives and the first language of its development is through the skin.”

Recent studies with premature babies have demonstrated that daily massage is of tremendous benefit. A research project at the University of Miami Medical Cen-ter showed remarkable results. Twenty premature babies were massaged three times a day for fifteen minutes each. They averaged 47% greater weight gain per day, were more active and alert, and showed more mature neurological devel-opment than infants who did not receive massage. In addition, their hospital stay averaged six days less.

Infant massage also deepens bond-ing and strengthens healthy attachment.

Bonding is “a unique relationship between two people, this is specific and endures through time” (Kennel & Klaus 1982). Attachment is an inborn system in the brain that evolves in ways that influence and organize motivational, emotional, and memory processes, with respect to primary caregivers/ parental figures. It is the bond that flows from the infant to caregiver; the quality of the relationship is based on how the caregiver responds to the child. Warm, loving, predictable, consistent response helps the infant to become securely at-tached and is more emotionally compe-tent” (Brainwatch, Wi Council on Children & Families, emphasis added).

Recent findings indicate that our adult relationships reflect the type of attach-ments we formed in our infancy. People whose infancy was secure, who were held and listened to, who had good eye contact with their parents, and who were generally cherished tend to have healthier relation-ships with others. They have happy, trust-ing relationships.

Infant massage helps relieve discomfort from gas, colic, and constipation, aids in digestion, and can aid in the relief of pain

Health Benefits of Infant MassageBy Maltee McMahon

How we bond and attach:•Eye contact, skin to skin contact, sound, smell•Entrainment: “The Dance of Bond-ing,” where parent and baby respond to each other in a variety of ways – fa-cial, speech, touch, etc.•Heat and warmth•Release of oxytocin: stimulates the mammary glands to release the milk and contracts the uterus. Also known as “the cuddle hormone,” it gives mother/baby a mild euphoric feeling. •Release of prolactin when baby touches mother (e.g. breastfeeding); starts the milk production•Breastfeeding•Bio-rhythmicity: rhythms developed in-utero. These are re-established and continue synchronicity between mother/child outside the womb with holding, rocking, etc.

Second Opinion | 27

due to juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. It enhances and stimulates development of the nervous system, increases alertness/heightens awareness, reduces stress hormones, im-proves immune function and aids in the release of oxytocin.

Nurturing touch is a naturally rewarding way to relieve stress for Mom and Baby or Dad and Baby. It is soothing and deepens bonding, providing essential one-on-one time that will enhance a parent’s intimacy, understanding and ability to nurture. Perform-ing infant massage increases a parent’s confidence and sensitivity to her baby’s cues. It is empowering, enhancing the ability to understand Baby’s special needs. And perhaps the most appreci-ated benefit is that infant massage often helps the child sleep better! Helping a baby release stress which builds daily from new experiences means more rest for the baby and parents; everyone

feels betterInfant massage is an excellent way to communicate love.Babies need to feel safe and loved. They need to feel comfort-

able in their physical environment after being tucked away snug-gly inside mother all those months. The nurturing and care needs to continue long after birth as the development of brains and body parts continues. Babies need more gentle touching and af-fection than most. Hugging, singing, smiling, playing, snuggling, and massage are all great ways to bond and attach, communicat-ing love and security, to babies.

Maltee McMahon is a certified Infant Massage Instructor and Instructor Trainer. She teaches parents and caregivers across Wisconsin how to bond with their children through massage. Sources: www.iaim.ws, Infant Massage: A Handbook for Loving Parents by Vimala McClure

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Second Opinion | 28

good earth

Spring is just around the corner. Are you feeling the itch to give your house a good, thorough cleaning? But beware: ir-ritating, unhealthy fumes may lurk in your cleaners. The fumes are often caused by petrochemical volatile organic compounds (VOCs)-including some components of smog-which evaporate from products. And it’s hard to ignore what your kids might be absorbing via their skin (or the accidental bath water drink) as they soak in a recently-scoured bathtub. Instead of submit-ting yourself and your family to a host of toxic chemicals, natural alternatives can do the job. Resources abound to help you determine what really is and isn’t safer than the tradi-tional cleaning chemicals. National Geographic’s Green Guide (www.thegreenguide.com) has a regularly updated Household Cleaners Product Report on their website, Consumer Reports’ Greener Choices division (www.GreenerChoices.org) has an Eco Label “decoder” that reveals the truth about labels on your products, and many national natural/alternative health maga-zines frequently publish updates on green cleaning products.

Some popular choices from the editors of Natural Health: Minneapolis-based Mrs. Meyers aromatherapeutic clean-•

ers (www.mrsmeyers.com) – also available at Just Local FoodNellie’s Dryerballs that replace fabric softener sheets •

(www.nellieslaundry.com)Bi-O-Kleen biodegradable stain and odor eliminator •

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Spring Cleaning, Naturally

Earth Day April 22, 2008Earth

Day Network has all kinds of interesting links from tips to help

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pening in our skies, water, and earth: www.earthday.net. Sign a petition to congress to en-

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Mama’s Earth Mop Floor CleanerIngredients: White distilled vinegar, Water, and an essential oil for

fragrance. A 16-oz squirt-bottle.How to Make: Fill the bottle with equal amounts of white distilled

vinegar and water. Add 14-20 drops of pure peppermint oil. Shake to mix

How to use: squirt this cleaner directly onto the floor and wipe clean with a rag or mop. Use it for linoleum and tile floors in your kitchen, bathroom, and laundry room. Cuts light soap film found on shower walls, soap dishes or shower stalls.

Second Opinion | 29

Understanding Cleaning ProdUCt labels (www.ecolabels.org) Biodegradable: Completely unregulated, this term is only meaningful if it specifies the amount of time it takes for the product to decompose (most substances eventually biodegrade over time given the right condi-tions). Non-toxic: A useless label, this term has no official definition or third-party verification to substantiate the claim. Organic: Though cleaning products aren't regulated by the Organic Foods Production Act, some of their ingredients (i.e., plant oils), can be labeled "certified organic.” International organizations which produce cleaning products may have different regulations for what can be labeled organic.

Of course, you can al;ways use simple baking soda (in place of most abrasive cleansers) or vinegar (good for getting out stains, brightening whites, polishing furniture and as a spot-free dishwater rinse). You may be pleasantly surprised!

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APRIL 26 2008 11:00-3:00

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Exhibits, guest speakers, and kids activities (arts,crafts, face painting, and games)

Local musicians will play and yummy food will be sold all day (coordinated by UWEC Foodlums)

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Second Opinion | 30

good earth

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How well do you know your fuel types? Here’s a brief summary of what’s out there.

Biogas typically refers to a (biofuel) gas produced by the an-aerobic digestion or fermentation of organic matter including ma-nure, sewage sludge, municipal solid waste, biodegradable waste or any other biodegradable feedstock, under anaerobic conditions. This includes things like yard clippings, scraps from food, etc. Biogas is comprised primarily of methane and carbon dioxide.

Considered a good source of renewable energy, biogas can be used as a vehicle fuel or for generating electricity. It can also be burned directly for cooking, heating, lighting, process heat and absorption refrigeration. It’s most commonly burned as a substitute for natural gas.

University of California-Davis bio-environmental engineer Ruihong Zhang is the one credited for inventing this way of con-verting waste material into energy, and by 2008 she intends to have a large commercial plant operating. The implications of biogas are huge: It could potentially divert 1/6 of all material dumped in landfills, reducing the air and water pollution they produce. One ton of food waste processed would make enough energy to power 10 average California homes for an entire day.

Zhang envisions the day where large and small plants would populate the country, providing landfill operators and famers with sustainable ways to use waste and create energy.

Biodiesel is a domestic, renewable fuel for diesel engines derived from natural oils like soybean oil, and which meets certain specifications. It can be used in any concentration with petro-leum based diesel fuel in existing diesel engines with little or no modification. Biodiesel is not the same thing as raw vegetable oil. It is produced by a chemical process which removes the glycerin from the oil. The use of biodiesel in a conventional diesel engine results in a substantial reduction of unburned hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and particulate matter.

The National Biodiesel Board (NBB) recently celebrated the passage of energy legislation by the U.S. House of Representatives which included broad renewable fuel provisions. “The Energy Independence and Security Act expands the Renewable Fuels Standard (RFS) in a manner that will encourage increased use of biodiesel, and extends the federal biodiesel tax incentive” (www.biodiesel.org). Added good news: After nearly six years of collabo-ration, new progress is being made regarding specification that will cover blends of six-to-20 percent biodiesel (B6 – B20). B20 final

Alternative Fuel 101

Second Opinion | 31

approval could come as early as June and would clear the way for greater automaker approval of B20.

Like regular diesel fuel, biodiesel can gel at very low tempera-tures. However, when properly blended, B20 can stand up to sub-zero temperatures. Joe Jobe, CEO of NBB adds, “As we enter the coldest time of year in many parts of the country, biodiesel users can rest assured that precautions such as using high quality fuel and following proper blending procedures, biodiesel blends [such as B20] are reliable even in sub-zero temperatures.”

Ethanol, commonly referred to as E85, consists of 85% etha-nol and 15% gasoline and though not totally renewable, it is still better than burning only gas. Ethanol, which is essentially grain alcohol, has been used as a fuel for nearly two centuries, and was one of the first used to power automobiles at the dawn of the 20th century.

Though E85 does pollute less than traditional fuel sources and is considered renewable, there is much debate around how sustain-able it is. Not only does it still pollute, but it also requires growing vast amounts of corn in not necessarily sustainable ways that some

argue is a big waste of money and energy. The ethanol debate has, from the beginning, hung on two main questions: Is it cheaper to produce than fuels made from fossil fuels? And does it create more energy than it takes to produce it? Even with decades of research, the debate has not subsided surrounding the investment of billions of dollars into ethanol production. With more attention and validity being given to sources such as biodiesel, chances are ethanol’s life as premier alternative to fossil fuels may be limited.

Pressed Oil, produced by cold-pressing grain or seed to yield oil, also produces a nutrient-dense meal byproduct. Primarily used by farmers, it is a completely sustainable waste-free process where crops yeild a seed which is pressed for oil, the oil is used to run machinery and heat outbuildings (the oil burns completely clean), and the meal byproduct is used to improve animal health and productivity.

The oil can be used to create bio-diesel or used with SVO (straight vegetable oil) kits to run engines on straight oil. Co-pressed renewable diesel is diesel that’s produced when an oil company adds small amounts of vegetable oils or animal fats to the traditional petroleum refining process when producing diesel fuel. Scheduled to be produced in existing oil refineries. Using an SVO (stright vegetable oil) kit, any diesel engine can run on striaght veg-etable oil. These systems start eh engine on petroleum diesel and then either automtaically or manually change over to SVO.

Sources: www.biodiesel.org, www.eia.doe.gov/fuelrenewable.html, www.bio-gaspillperformance.com, www.msnbc.com, www.agoilpress.com, www.nbb.org

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• Vegan capsules and tablets,no animal derived ingredients

• Plant extracts made with pure waterand alcohol, no toxic solvents

• We feature sustainably wildcraftedherbs grown without chemicalpesticides or fertilizers

• Non-irradiated herbs

• Soy, wheat and gluten free

INDUSTRY-LEADING ENVIRONMENTAL STANDARDS

COMING SOON!OURNEWNAME avesta

†Test performed by Brunswick Laboratories.

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