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 Memorial Day is a day full of celebration and remembrance for our country. Often, friends and families gather to enjoy the summer sun and each other’s company. The grills are hot, the traffic is heavy, and the pool is cool! To get the most out of this weekend, take note of the following tips for your safety:

Getting There:
Wherever your final destination may be, ensure you get there safely.
While you may be in a hurry, do not follow other vehicles too closely and use caution in construction zones.
Be sure to make frequent stops and use multiple drivers if necessary.
Ensure that your vehicle’s gas tank doesn’t get too low.
Let someone know where you’re going before you leave, just in case you run into trouble.
Avoid distractions such as cell phones, and always buckle your seatbelt!

Grilling Out:
Keep your grill out in the open and away from overhangs, enclosed areas, or anything that could catch fire.
Make sure that no one gets too close to the grill, such as children or pets.
Use long-handled tools to avoid any burns.
Never add starter fluid if your coals have already been lit.

Diving In:
Learn CPR in case of an emergency, and ensure that all swimmers are skilled.
Actively supervise children, and stay within arms reach of new swimmers.
If you’re on a boat, sport a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket.
Remain within eyeshot of a lifeguard and swim with a buddy.
Keep a life preserver nearby, and in case of drowning, throw it, but don’t jump in. Call 9-1-1 in case of an emergency.

Having some fun in the sun is a necessity on Memorial Day, and to ensure you have your best one yet, follow these tips to avoid any unforeseen accidents! Happy Memorial Day!

Source: Memorial Day Safety Tips Online 

The risk of developing skin cancer will be substantially reduced for children who learn to “Block the sun, not the fun!”  Sun Safety for Kids is dedicated to reducing the incidence of skin cancer through teaching and promoting sun protection to children.  During the hour, while you are contemplating the subject of sun safety, one more American will die from skin cancer.  It remains the most common type of cancer in the United States despite being such a preventable disease.  Keep your children safe!  Encourage or require the use of Sun-protective hats, long clothing, sunscreen and UV-blocking sunglasses.  To complement more reliable methods of reducing skin exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation (such as sun avoidance, clothing, and hats) sunscreen can be very useful.  However, limitations to the effectiveness of sunscreen include the following common user errors which are Failure to apply enough, uneven application / missed spots and Failure to re-apply.  Because some amount of UV radiation might pass by the sunscreen, unintentional sunburn can occur.  Think of these products as a back-up to other, more effective, and sun safety strategies.  The sun emits a broad spectrum of radiation that includes harmless visible light as well as ultraviolet radiation.  The bands of wavelengths that damage human skin are categorized as UVA and UVB.  UVB rays are the main cause of the skin turning red, or exhibiting a sunburn.  They can fracture the DNA in skin cells, resulting in mutations.  UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and are the main cause of wrinkling, and discoloration.  They cause the formation of damaging atoms called free radicals, and can inhibit the immune system from doing its job to prevent cancer.  It is important to protect the skin from both UVA and UVB.  If, and only if a sunscreen effectively filters out UVA rays as well as UVB rays (which is highly desirable) it may be labeled "Broad Spectrum."  When shopping for sunscreen, always look for a product labeled "Broad Spectrum SPF" rather than simply "SPF."  Certain antioxidants can augment the broad-spectrum protection.  Look for a mention of antioxidants on the product label but unfortunately there is not yet any rating system to help you compare antioxidant effectiveness between products.  Probably the greatest drawback with sunscreen is that most people do not apply a sufficient dose.  The SPF number is determined by the manufacturer using a “standard” application amount (required by the FDA) of 2 milligrams of product per square centimeter of skin.  For the average adult in a bathing suit this would be a little more than one ounce, or approximately a shot glass full.  (That’s one quarter of the typical 4 oz. sunscreen bottle.)  When a person applies less than the “standard” amount, only a fraction of the labeled SPF will be achieved.  Studies have shown that the average person applies less than half the “standard” amount of sunscreen, which results in an SPF of only about one third of that labeled on the bottle.  Spray on sunscreens is particularly subject to under-dosing.  By contrast, if more than the “standard” amount is applied, the SPF achieved will exceed that labeled on the bottle.  UV causes some sunscreen ingredients to gradually deteriorate on the skin’s surface in response to sun exposure.  Sunscreen can also dissipate due to sweating, rubbing, and penetration into the skin.  To maintain maximum effect, sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours.  A single application before coming to school cannot be expected to adequately protect a child for afternoon physical education.  These products must be applied liberally and, as with paint, two coats are better than one.  Thus, Sun Safety for Kids coined the phrase: “Put on a lot. And don’t miss a spot!”

Information brought to you by sunsafetyforkids.org 

 As we near Memorial Day Weekend, many people will purchase fireworks as part of their celebrations. Some towns or event organizers may have firework exhibits as part of their holiday celebrations. Unfortunately, there will be some people who are injured while using fireworks or enjoying a firework display. According to the National Fire Protection Association, more than 18,500 fires will be started by fireworks each year in the United States. Over 10,500 people were treated in emergency rooms for fireworks-related injuries. Sparklers caused a quarter of those injuries. Most of us love fireworks, but we must remember that using fireworks can result in serious injuries. Use these tips for staying safe on Memorial Day while enjoying Fireworks.  Obey all local laws. If you are not sure whether you can use fireworks in your area, contact your local government office to verify the laws regarding the use of fireworks.  Wear safety glasses. Safety glass can prevent injuries to your eyes when lighting fireworks. In addition, don’t wear clothing that can dangle down onto the firework.  Don’t mix alcohol and fireworks. Never try to light fireworks if you have been consuming alcohol.  Use fireworks outdoors. Fireworks should be used in an open space away from buildings and other structures. Never light fireworks inside a structure.  Never allow children to light fireworks. Fireworks should only be used by adults.  Never relight a firework. If the firework does not work, in other words, it is a “dud,” wait 20 minutes before picking the firework up and soaking it in water.  Always have a fire extinguisher and water. You need to have a bucket of water or a water hose in case of fires. Having a small fire extinguisher is also a wise idea.  Follow instructions exactly as printed. Read all instructions on or with the fireworks and follow those instructions. Do not “experiment” with fireworks!  Purchase fireworks from a reputable dealer. Purchasing fireworks from the “back of a truck” can be very dangerous. You do not know if those fireworks are safe. Purchase your fireworks from a dealer.  Light one firework at a time. Attempting to light multiple fireworks for a “big finale” can result in a tragic accident.  Never point fireworks at others. Fireworks should only be directed up and away from people and crowds.  Protect your pets. Many pets fear fireworks. Consider your pets when you are planning your Memorial Day celebrations.

Source: Memorial Day Safety 

Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in service of the United States of America. Over two dozen cities and towns claim to be the birthplace of Memorial Day however Waterloo N.Y. was officially declared the birthplace of Memorial Day by President Lyndon Johnson in May 1966.  On the first Decoration Day, General James Garfield made a speech at Arlington National Cemetery, and 5,000 participants decorated the graves of the 20,000 Union and Confederate soldiers buried there.  It is now observed in almost every state on the last Monday in May with Congressional passage of the National Holiday Act of 1971 (P.L. 90 – 363). This helped ensure a three day weekend for Federal holidays, though several southern states have an additional separate day for honoring the Confederate war dead: January 19th in Texas; April 26th in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Mississippi; May 10th in South Carolina; and June 3rd (Jefferson Davis’ birthday) in Louisiana and Tennessee.  In 1915, inspired by the poem “In Flanders Fields,” Moina Michael replied with her own poem:

We cherish too, the Poppy red
That grows on fields where valor led,
It seems to signal to the skies
That blood of heroes never dies.

She then conceived of an idea to wear red poppies on Memorial Day in honor of those who died serving the nation during war. She was the first to wear one, and sold poppies to her friends and co-workers with the money going to benefit servicemen in need. Later a Madam Guerin from France was visiting the United States and learned of this new custom started by Ms. Michael. When she returned to France she made artificial red poppies to raise money for war orphaned children and widowed women. This tradition spread to other countries. In 1921, the Franco-American Children’s League sold poppies nationally to benefit war orphans of France and Belgium. The League disbanded a year later and Madam Guerin approached the VFW for help.  Shortly before Memorial Day in 1922 the VFW became the first veterans’ organization to nationally sell poppies. Two years later their “Buddy” Poppy program was selling artificial poppies made by disabled veterans. In 1948 the US Post Office honored Ms. Michael for her role in founding the National Poppy movement by issuing a red 3 cent postage stamp with her likeness on it. 

Starting or maintaining a regular exercise routine can be a challenge at any age and it doesn’t get any easier as you get older. You may feel discouraged by health problems, aches and pains, or concerns about injuries or falls. If you've never exercised before, you may not know where to begin, or perhaps you think you're too old or frail, and can never live up to the standards you set when you were younger. Or maybe you just think that exercise is boring.  While these may seem like good reasons to slow down and take it easy as you age, they're even better reasons to get moving. Becoming more active can energize your mood, relieve stress, help you manage symptoms of illness and pain, and improve your overall sense of well-being. And reaping the rewards of exercise doesn’t have to involve strenuous workouts or trips to the gym. It’s about adding more movement and activity to your life, even in small ways. No matter your age or physical condition, it’s never too late to get your body moving, boost your health and outlook, and improve how you age. I know personally at the age of 41, I am not trying to  win Miss America but I do want to feel good and when you feel good you look even better.  Try just going on a stroll around the neighborhood.  I have started walking and I actually take a different route every time I go walking.  It’s in the same area but not necessarily the same streets which allows for different scenery and makes it feel like a fun walk versus a marathon.  I usually walk one mile to three miles but the key to walking longer is staying hydrated so be sure to take a bottle of water with you, don’t walk in the hottest part of the day and start out slow.  Remember you are not trying to win the race, you are just wanting to finish it. 

 With National Hamburger Day coming up on May the 28th, let’s talk burgers!  Where do you get your favorite hamburger from?  Or even better, what do you put on your hamburger?  If I am in a plain jane kinda mood, I have cheeseburger with cheese and meat only but my hamburger has to be thin and well done-burnt.  If I am in a spunky mood, I will get meat, cheese, pickles and onions on it but it still has to be real thin and done-burnt!  Isn’t it crazy how we all like different burgers fixed different ways?   In Sylvester, there are many places where you can get a good ole burger.  One burger that Sylvester is known for is the Carlton Burger.  If you are from here, you definitely know what I am talking about.  If you have never heard of them, it is something you should for sure try.  Be sure to enjoy your favorite burger with friends and family on May the 28th. 

 Look at these beautiful flowers!  These were my mother’s (Venice Meeks) flowers.  She absolutely loved them!  Her mother (Louise Dupree) had a green thumb for sure.  She had flowers in her yard, on her porch, in her house and in her little green house.  She enjoyed them so much.  Mother got her flowers from Pa’s Plants in Sumner.  She absolutely adored Mrs. Sherry and the wonderful workers there.  They were so helpful to her.  The flowers were always so beautiful!  She had them on the front porch, by the mailbox and on the walkway.  I saw her out there everyday checking on the flowers, giving them water and a little tender care.  She took such good care of them.  She watched the weather religiously in order to take care of her beauties.  If it was going to be chilly or cold, she had certain blankets that she covered them up with.  If it was going to be very windy, she brought them all to the front porch and tucked them in very well.  When I tell you she took care of those plants, she truly did.  Do you have flowers in your yard?  What is your favorite kind of flower?  I am not a flower in the yard kind of person, but I loved looking at mother’s and all of my friends that post them on Facebook. 

 May is the perfect time for enjoying the outdoors and bike riding with your family. Riding a bike is a great way to get kids outside and encourage them to stay active, but without precautions in place, it can be a cause of serious injury.   Here are some simple rules to follow to keep the little ones safe:

1.  Make sure your child’s helmet meets the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s standards.  
2.  A helmet should sit on top of the head in level position, should not rock forward, backward, or side to side.  
3. Helmet straps must always be buckled, but not too tightly.  
4. When the helmet is positioned on your child’s head, the rim should be one to two finger-widths above the eyebrows.  
5. The straps should form a “V” under the ears when buckled.  
6. A helmet should hug the head when the mouth is opened wide.  

If you ever have any questions, please visit
safekidsgeorgia.org. 

 With it being Older Americans Month, it has me thinking of times with older people that have now gone on to their Eternal Home.  It’s amazing what we learn from older people that we remember our whole lives.  It’s also the simple things we do with our older friends and family members that leave us with memories that will last a lifetime.  I could seriously write a book but I will share some of my great memories.  I was blessed with two grandmothers that quilted quilts and I have quilts in my house that they both quilted through their lives.  I have some on our beds and then I have some on a quilt rack that my daddy built while he was living and then I have some hanging on my daddy’s ladder that he used for many, many years.  I have always loved to write but one thing I did when all the little ladies were still living in my church was send them cards for every occasion.  And I do mean every.  Whether it was Valentines, St. Patrick’s Day, Easter, or any of the other holiday’s or even if it was just to say hello, I sent out cards.  I loved to do it and they loved to get them.  It was the simple things to them that meant the world.  A funny memory I will never forget was when an older couple that I loved dearly saw my sister was getting married in the local newspaper, however they didn’t know she was divorced so they just assumed it was me and gave me a wedding present.  How sweet was that?? They were no longer with us when I did get married so that early wedding gift was meant to be.  Oh how I loved them! 

 Sponsored by the CDC, National High Blood Pressure Education Month raises awareness about the impact high blood pressure can have on health.  Written as two figures, blood pressure is measured as the pressure when the heart has pumped (systolic) and when the heart is in between beats (diastolic).  When the heart pumps blood, blood pressure is higher than when it is in between beats. The systolic measurement will be higher than the diastolic measurement.  Normal Blood Pressure Levels: Systolic < 120mmHg  Diastolic > 80mmHg  At Risk Blood Pressure Levels: Systolic 120-139mmHg Diastolic 80-89mmHg  High Blood Pressure Levels: Systolic 140mmHg or higher  Diastolic 90mmHg or higher. Also know as hypertension, high blood pressure increases the risk of serious diseases and conditions such as heart disease and stroke. In the US, heart disease is the most common form of death whilst stroke is the third leading cause. Other risk factors of high blood pressure include congestive heart failure & kidney disease.  In the US, approximately 1 in 3 adults has high blood pressure, however most people are not aware they have this condition due to a lack of signs or symptoms.  High Blood Pressure Education Month encourages people to look at various lifestyle factors which may be contributing to high blood pressure. It is well documented that high levels of sodium (salt) is linked to high blood pressure. In the US, the majority of people consume more than twice the level of recommended sodium intake. Guidelines recommend up to 2,300mg of sodium per day for an adult.  Those at higher risk should consume even less (up to 1,500mg of sodium a day). Higher risk groups include those who have diabetes, kidney disease, existing high blood pressure and African American people. It is also recommended that people eat potassium rich foods which help lower blood pressure. Potassium rich foods include fish, green leafy vegetables, bananas, citrus fruits and potatoes.  Lifestyle changes which can help reduce blood pressure, include maintaining a healthy body weight , regular exercise, quitting smoking and following a healthy low sodium diet rich in fruit and vegetables. There are many affordable blood pressure monitors available for the consumer making it convenient to monitor your blood pressure at home.  If you have any concerns about your blood pressure, please check with your local physician. 

May is recognized as Older Americans Month. Let’s give a SHOUT OUT to getting older. You may ask, “So what’s so great about getting older?” Well, ponder on these seven reasons to celebrate:

1. You’re nearing the top of a mountain which gives you perspective. As the years go by, you gain a perspective not found in younger years. Mysteries of why things happened years ago start to clear up. You begin to see how the pieces of life fit together. The older you become, the more life makes sense.

2. You care less and less about what people think. There was a time when you put a lot of pressure on yourself worried about what people thought about you. Not anymore. Growing older rescues you from that kind of thinking.

3. You learn what’s really important. In your formative years, life centered on building a career. Maybe you put a lot of things on the back burner in your younger years, thinking ‘I will do that later.’ With every year that passes, I learn that life is all about relationships. Nothing is really more important.

4. You realize the need to make every day count. Focus on what you can do for the day, realizing that none of us are guaranteed the next day. Every choice counts and every day needs to be lived to the fullest.

5. You are morphing into the role of a sage. In many cultures, older people are held in high esteem for good reason. Life is the best teacher. Believe it or not, you may begin to have people seek you out for wisdom and guidance.

6. You get to see your kids and grandkids grow up. One of the joys of getting older is you get to watch the next generations grow into adulthood. You get the privilege of being a part of their journey.

7. At the close of every year, you’ve written another chapter in your book of life. When you die, your legacy is the life you have lived. Now is the time to work on your legacy. Make it count.

Source: SOWEGA Council on Aging 

When the weather turns warm, everyone wants to be in or around the water. Hanging out at the pool or the beach on a hot day is a great way to beat the heat. Between having fun and checking out the lifeguards, most people don't think much about water safety — but they should. For people between the ages of 5 and 24, drowning is the second leading cause of accidental death.  It doesn't have to be that way, though. Most water-related accidents can be avoided by knowing how to stay safe and following a few simple guidelines. Learning how to swim is essential if you plan on being on or near water. Many organizations provide swim instruction to people of all ages, check to see what classes are available in your area.  "Buddy up!" That's what swimming instructors say. Always swim with a partner, every time — whether you're swimming in a backyard pool or in a lake. Even experienced swimmers can become tired or get muscle cramps, which might make it difficult to get out of the water. When people swim together, they can help each other or go for help in case of an emergency.  Get skilled. Speaking of emergencies, it's good to be prepared. Learning some life-saving skills, such as CPR and rescue techniques, can help you save a life. A number of organizations offer free classes for both beginning and experienced swimmers and boaters. Check with your YMCA or YWCA, local hospital, or chapter of the Red Cross.  Know your limits. Swimming can be a lot of fun — and you might want to stay in the water as long as possible. If you're not a good swimmer or you're just learning to swim, don't go in water that's so deep you can't touch the bottom and don't try to keep up with skilled swimmers. That can be hard, especially when your friends are challenging you — but it's a pretty sure bet they'd rather have you safe and alive.  If you are a good swimmer and have had lessons, keep an eye on friends who aren't as comfortable or as skilled as you are. If it seems like they (or you) are getting tired or a little uneasy, suggest that you take a break from swimming for a while.  Swim in safe areas only. It's a good idea to swim only in places that are supervised by a lifeguard. No one can anticipate changing ocean currents, rip currents, sudden storms, or other hidden dangers. In the event that something does go wrong, lifeguards are trained in rescue techniques.  Swimming in an open body of water (like a river, lake, or ocean) is different from swimming in a pool. You need more energy to handle the currents and other changing conditions in the open water.  If you do find yourself caught in a current, don't panic and don't fight the current. Try to swim parallel to the shore until you are able to get out of the current, which is usually a narrow channel of water. Gradually try to make your way back to shore as you do so. If you're unable to swim away from the current, stay calm and float with the current. The current will usually slow down, then you can swim to shore.  Even a very good swimmer who tries to swim against a strong current will get worn out. If you're going to be swimming in an open body of water, it's a great idea to take swimming lessons that provide you with tips on handling unexpected hazards.  Some areas with extremely strong currents are off limits when it comes to swimming. Do your research so you know where not to swim, and pay attention to any warning signs posted in the area.  For more information on subjects just like these, please visit kidshealth.org.