SI Men's Health Expo set for Feb. 25

Men throughout the region no longer have the excuse of cost when it comes to attending the annual Southern Illinois Men's Health Expo. That's because this year's extravaganza is free of charge for the first time since its inception in 2009.
The event runs from 7 to 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 25 at Black Diamond Harley-Davidson in Marion.
Event co-organizer Kevin Hunsperger said too many men in the region fail to take care of themselves like they should.
"It's not unmanly to visit a doctor," he said. "It's hard to provide for your family if you don't take care of yourself first. What we hope through this health expo is that men will take a serious look at their health, fitness, and general wellness. And get regular check-ups."
Toward that end, the conference will feature health screenings and blood draws that require fasting in advance. Heartland Regional Medical Center in Marion will process the bloodwork.
"A lot of guys we talk to thank us for having this health conference," Hunsperger said. "There have even been some instances where we caught some high blood pressure and high cholesterol readings. We're expecting a really big turnout on that day, probably at least a couple hundred."
A variety of speakers are lined up to make presentations, including Pam Dorris (Rend Lake CrossFit), Dr. Zahoor Makhdoom (Southern Illinois GI Specialists), Dr. Brad Miller (Miller Spinal Health and Wellness Center) and Shane Smith (Gold’s Gym).
Dozens of interactive exhibits will be available all morning. At 9:30 a.m., for example, Doug Brinkley from SI Brewers will teach men how to make craft beer. He’ll be joined by Dr. Jeff Ripperda, who will discuss the health benefits of drinking beer. 
Then at 10:30 a.m., Southern Illinois Miners COO and Manager Mike Pinto takes the stage to tell men how to take charge of their health.
Food will be for sale from Haute Wheels Food Truck. Vendors and exhibitors will have items for sale that day too. Learn more at simensexpo.com and follow the expo on Facebook, Twitter (@SIMensConf) and Instagram (@simensexpo).