Federal Health Insurance Law One Topic at Extension’s “Healthy Lifestyle Expo” in Springfield Sept. 24

Contact: Nellie Lamers, family financial education specialist

Tel: (417) 546-4431

E-mail: lamersn@missouri.edu

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – University of Missouri Extension presents the first “Healthy Lifestyle Expo” for southwest Missouri from 8:45 a.m. to 3 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 24 at the Springfield-Greene County Botanical Center, 2400 S. Scenic Ave., Springfield, Mo.

Attendees will learn the latest in nutrition, family financial planning, childcare, home safety and personal improvement from regional specialists with MU Extension.

This program is designed for individuals working in human resources for area businesses that want to present Healthy Lifestyle programs to employees. The program could also benefit small business owners and individuals who are interested in healthy lifestyles for themselves or for employees.

“Each presentation provides valuable information for taking care of yourself, your home and your family as well showcasing the various programs that MU Extension can provide to any business or organization,” said Nellie Lamers, a family financial education specialist with MU Extension who is helping coordinate the event.

The keynote speakers are Molly Vetter-Smith, a continuing medical education specialist with MU Extension and Brenda Procter, a personal financial planning specialist with MU Extension.

“Missouri’s Health Insurance Marketplace, called for in the new federal health insurance law, will open October 1.  A requirement will be that all Americans be enrolled in health insurance.  Presenters will share up-to-date information about how the new Affordable Care Act will affect Missourians in different groups or situations and explain how Missouri Extension’s Health Insurance Education Initiative is providing fact-based information and resources to help individuals, families, and businesses make informed health insurance decisions and comply with the requirements of the new law,” said Proctor.

Other sessions presented by regional specialists with MU Extension include: “Taking Care of You,” “Safe Rooms for Your Home or Business,” “Tools for Healthy Self- Management,” “Creating a Better Built Environment for Healthy Living,” “Thrifty Estate Planning,” “Influence of Nutrition on the Immune Systems,” ‘Saving & Investing—Yes I Can” and “Understanding the Benefits of Stay Strong, Stay Healthy.”

There is a cost for the program with early registration discounts ending Sept. 1: morning session at $50 per person (includes lunch) or afternoon session at $25 or the entire day for $75. After Sept. 1, registration changes to $60 for the morning session, $30 for the afternoon and $90 for the entire day. Registrations after Sept. 20 do not come with a lunch guarantee.

See our posted schedule and agenda at http://extension.missouri.edu/greene for details on the program. Registration and payment can also be done online following the links provided.