State Representative

D-Jackson

Week of

January 30, 2012

FRANKFORT – It’s been a busy week in Frankfort.  There was a lot of work – and a little play – in the state House of Representatives this week.

A bill that would alter the makeup of school-based decision making councils in Kentucky’s local school districts passed the full House. If passed into law, HB 89 would require that at least one of the two parent members on a council live within the boundaries of the school district, and prohibit non-tenured teachers from serving on a council unless no tenured teachers are willing, or available, to serve. HB 89 now goes to the Senate for its consideration.

House members unanimously approved legislation that would help cover the cost of child adoption by any Kentucky National Guard member. Any Kentucky National Guard member would be eligible for military family-assistance trust funds of up to $5,000 to cover the adoption of a child with special needs, or up to $3,000 to cover the adoption of another child under HB 224, which is now before the Senate for consideration. The legislation would help cover unreimbursed direct costs, such as licensed adoption agency fees, legal fees and medical costs incurred by Kentucky National Guard members.

A growing problem with feral pigs that may be little known in some areas of the Commonwealth received statewide attention this week when the House Agriculture and Small Business Committee passed a concurrent resolution to address the issue. HCR 76 would encourage the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources to study Kentucky’s swelling population of wild pigs, and the dangers and problems they create. The resolution now goes to the full House for approval.

The House often welcomes special guests, including winning sports and academic teams, artists, musicians—even pageant queens like Miss Kentucky Ann-Blair Thornton, who we welcomed to the House chamber Tuesday. But never before, in my memory at least, has the House welcomed to the chamber an actual penguin as we did on Tuesday afternoon when Paula the Penguin paid us a visit.

One of nine African Penguins at the Newport Aquarium’s “African Penguin Encounters” exhibit, Paula—who waddled up the center aisle of the House chamber into the arms of a waiting Newport Aquarium biologist—charmed lawmakers as we adopted a resolution honoring the aquarium and recognizing Tuesday as Penguin Day at the Capitol. The tiny black and white bird brought a lot of smiles and some much needed levity during what would prove to be tough legislative week.

It is hard to believe, but more than a quarter of the 2012 Regular Session is complete.  That means there are less than 45 more legislative working days for the House and Senate to come together and pass a new state budget, plus hundreds of other bills that impact Kentuckians young and old across this state. As of now, it would appear that we are right on schedule for completion of our session tasks.

Please continue to stay informed on bills of interest to you throughout the 2012 Regular Session by logging onto the Legislative Research Commission website atwww.lrc.ky.govor by calling the LRC toll-free Bill Status Line at866-840-2835. For committee meeting schedules, please call the LRC toll-free Meeting Information Line at800-633-9650. Or, to comment on a bill, please call the toll-free Legislative Message Line at800-372-7181. You can reach me directly at 502-564-8100, ext. 818.

There is a technique which can be very helpful. It is a process of surrender, but this does not mean giving up our position completely. The surrender occurs, at first, only in the mind.

What you do is to take a time out from the discussion. Find a quiet spot, and put yourself into the place of your ‘opponent’. Try to imagine what he or she is feeling. Think of the things that person has been saying to you (even if they are about you), and imagine, for the moment, that they are true. If you were that person, what is it, deep down, that you would be wanting. Think of the kind of response you would want if you were the other person.

Once you have completed this process, you still may be holding to your original position, but you can respond differently now. You can go back to the discussion telling your ‘opponent’ that after some thought, you can understand how he or she is feeling. Once you explain you understand their point of view, you will see them visibly soften. They will probably want to tell you a little more, now that you are listening. Just listen. They will then be more open to hearing your point of view, since they no longer have to try to hard to get you to understand theirs. Together you can discuss a compromise (there generally is one).

This is process is a very powerful key to improving communication. In the process, it deepens the trust, intimacy and connection within the relationship itself. Give it a try.

Gwen Randall-Young is an author and award-winning Psychotherapist.  For permission to reprint this article, or to obtain books or cds, visit www.gwen.ca

Week of January 9, 2012

State Representative Ted Edmonds

FRANKFORT – The convening of the 2012 Regular Session of the Kentucky General Assembly last week marked the beginning of my work in Frankfort this year.  More than 200 bills have already been filed, and we’ll likely consider more than 1,000 proposals before the end of the 60 day session in mid-April.

One of the first items we’ll take up is redistricting.  We look at district lines every 10 years and make needed adjustments for population changes identified by the most recent Census.  While all legislators are deeply concerned with how districts are drawn, you can rest assured that meeting the needs of our constituents is our main concern.  Our goal will always be to make sure this and every district is balanced and reasonable.  We hope to accomplish this quickly prior to the filing deadline

The biggest priority in this session will be determining the state’s new biennial budget.  The past couple of budgets have been difficult to write, but this may prove to be the toughest one we’ve had in a long time.  Even though recent revenues are slightly higher than expected, we’re dealing with increased cost and the loss of federal stimulus dollars.  Some budget analysts say we’re facing a $337 million deficit.  Given our past cuts, those dollars will be hard to account for.

We’ll also consider many other issues of concern to all of you, including education, Medicaid, and substance abuse.  In every bill I vote on, I keep your needs and desires in mind.  I don’t take the responsibility and privilege of being your representative in Frankfort lightly.  I hope you follow the work in Frankfort, and let me know what you’d like to see happen.  There are many ways to stay informed and in touch.

The Kentucky Legislature Home Page, www.lrc.ky.gov, provides a bill tracking service, and committee meeting schedules.  The site’s eNews page, www.lrc.ky.gov/pubinfo/listserv.htm, allows you to subscribe to frequent e-mail updates on what’s happening at the Capitol.  In addition, you can read regularly updated news briefs, Capitol Notes, at www.lrc.ky.gov/pubinfo/capitol_notes.htm.

You may also call me directly at 502-564-8100, ext. 818, or leave a message on the General Assembly’s toll-free Message Line at 1-800-372-7181.  People with hearing difficulties may call the TTY Message Line at (808) 896-0305.  You are also welcome to send letters addressed to me to: Capitol Annex, 702 Capitol Avenue, Frankfort, Kentucky 40601.

The trouble with the world can be characterized by an example of human behavior that is readily recognized, but is nonetheless unexplainable.

This example happened while I was driving home one night.

The thoughts in my head were the usual reminders my subconscious is always sending me: What to buy, who to drop off, what to fill out, when to buy, drop off and fill out.  I was solving problems and calculating to the beat of a soft rock station.  I listen to soft rock when I solve problems.  Hard rock makes me angry at everything. Country/western makes me think I’m having marital problems even when things are going well.  Rap is… well… rap? Are you kidding?

Soft rock is my music of choice when traveling alone at night.  I was mellow but not sleepy, enjoying my alone-time with Josh Groban.

As I came around a corner, a car coming from the opposite direction flashed his high beams at me.  Since I did not have my high beams on, I thought perhaps he was warning me of a speed trap.

I sent him a silent thank you and slowed down.  I didn’t know exactly what the speed limit was on that road.  It was not one on which I traveled frequently.  But if someone flashes me, I just assume I might be going too fast.  A mile or two down the road I realized… there was no speed trap.  I wasn’t speeding.  So why did the other driver flash me?  I took back my silent thank you.  In fact, I hoped he never received it.

I assumed it was a male because only a male would’ve done something so arrogant.  My husband would’ve assumed it was a woman, because only a woman would have done something so daffy.

A few miles down the road, on a straight stretch of road, another oncoming driver flashed me from well in the distance.  He thinks I have my high beams on, I thought.  To show that I did not have my high beams on, I quickly flashed him back, friendly-like.

The problem with high beams is that you cannot attach an emoticon to them. The other driver did not think I was being friendly.  In fact, he thought I was being a smart Alec.  It didn’t occur to me that if he thought my high beams were on before, flashing them higher would’ve rendered him temporarily blind.

He evidently had been listening to hard rock because it was definitely anger that motivated him to turn his high beams on full and treat me to a blast of light not unlike the second coming of Christ.  I think he even had flood lights mounted on his roof to enhance the apocalyptic experience.

Celine Dion, now crooning through my speakers, was not the right accompaniment for this onslaught.  I needed Queen, Kiss, or the Rolling Stones.  In two beats of Celine’s My Heart Will Go On, I turned off the calming music and embraced my inner Mick Jagger.

Almost involuntarily, my fingers flicked my high beams on full. “Satisfaction” was playing at a bazillion decibels in my mind.  If I’m going to die, Mr. High Beams was going with me!

Squinting, as I drove through what looked like a Red Giant going super nova on that dark stretch of road, it occurred to me that I was definitely, categorically, unquestionably… stupid. That was the blinding truth.

Laura Snyder is a nationally syndicated columnist, author & speaker.  You can reach Laura at lsnyder@lauraonlife.com Or visit her website www.lauraonlife.com for more info.

By: James Elliott Turner II, Breathitt Co. Health Department

Many people with arthritis believe that they should avoid exercising for fear of doing further damage to their joints. Research has shown that exercise is, in fact, an important tool in helping to control arthritis and can actually help alleviate many symptoms and allow people to perform daily tasks with less muscle pain and stiffness in their joints.

Getting Started With an Exercise Routine

If you have arthritis, you should consult with your physician before beginning an exercise routine. They can help you choose exercises that are suited to your current health and fitness levels. it is also important to remember to start slowly when you are starting an exercise routine and to make it as enjoyable as possible.

Types of Exercise

There are three primary types of exercise that are particularly beneficial to people with arthritis. Each type of exercise is designed to help you to strengthen your body in a different way. The three types of exercise are:

1.Range of Motion Exercises. Range of motion refers to the normal amount that your joints can be moved in certain directions. These exercises involve moving your joints into various positions and then gently stretching. They can help you maintain the freedom of movement you need in order to stay physically active. You should try to do range of motion exercises every day.

2.Strengthening Exercises. Strengthening exercises can help maintain or improve your muscle strength. They are helpful because strong muscles help to minimize the strain on your joints, which may help lessen arthritis pain. The two most common forms of strengthening exercises are isometric and isotonic exercises. Isometric exercises involve the tightening of your muscles without any joint movement. Isotonic exercises involve the movement of your joints in order to strengthen muscles. Aim for doing strengthening exercises every other day.

3.Endurance Exercises. Endurance exercises help to strengthen your heart. They can also increase your stamina so that you don’t tire as quickly. Some popular forms of endurance exercises include walking, swimming, and riding a stationary bicycle. Start your exercise routine with flexibility and strengthening exercises. Once you adjust to these types of exercises, you can gradually work in some form of endurance training. Try starting with a 5 minute program 3 times each day, and gradually build up to 15 minute sessions.

Some Other Helpful Tips

There are steps you can take before, during, and after your exercise routine to help minimize pain and stiffness. Before exercising, do a gentle warm up of range of motion and strengthening exercises. During exercise, exercise at a pace that is comfortable

Breathe out as you do the exercise and breathe in as you relax between repetitions

After exercising, always cool down after you finish your exercise routine by doing some gentle stretching if joint or muscle pain continues past two hours after you finish exercising, you’ve probably overexerted yourself and need to scale back your exercise routine

1.) Don’t use tobacco. Say no to tobacco products, including chewing tobacco. This is the single most important thing you can do to prevent lung cancer and many other diseases.

2.) Eat healthy. Eat five or more servings of fruits and vegetables and plenty of whole grains everyday. Cut down on high-fats foods.

3.) Find time for fitness. Be physically active for 30-45 minutes at least five days a week. Children should get 60 minutes of exercise at least six days a week.

4.) Save your skin. Avoid the midday sun, if possible. When you are in the sun, wear a hat, long sleeves, sun block and sunglasses. Use sunscreen with a SPF of 15 or higher. Stay away from sunlamps and tanning booths.

5.) Get screened. Cancer screening saves lives. Talk to your doctor about which tests are right for you. Get screened regularly.

5 Cancers to know about

Screening means looking for cancer before a person has symptoms. When cancer is found early, it is the easiest to treat. The following 5 cancers can be prevented or found early through screening tests. These recommendations are for people at average risk of developing cancer.

1.) Breast Cancer: Women age 40 and older should have a mammogram once a year. Starting at age 20, women should talk wit their doctor about clinical breast exams and breast self-exams.

2.) Cervical Cancer: The Pap test can prevent cervical cancer or find it early. Most cervical cancers could be prevented if women had this test regularly.

3.) Colorectal Cancer: Several screening tests can prevent colorectal cancer or find it early. People age 50 and older should talk with their doctor about which test is right for them.

4.) Prostate Cancer: Screening for prostate cancer is based on age, race, family history and other factors. Men should talk with their doctor about whether screening is right for them.

5.) Skin Cancer: Checking your skin once a month for new moles, bumps or other changes can help find skin cancer early. If you notice any changes, see your doctor.

By: James Elliott Turner II, Breathitt Co. Health Department

Nature’s Best

Nature offers many sweet choices for eating well: juicy red cherries, plump purple plums, and orange, luscious tangerines, just to name a few. In fact, all fruits fit into a colorful and healthy diet.

You can enjoy fresh fruits as they come: whole or perhaps sliced. But with minimal work, you can transform fresh fruit into lively snacks, side dishes, desserts and meals. Here are 10 ways to reinvent and rediscover these sweet options.

Grilled fruit slices. Cut apples, pears or peaches into chunks, brush lightly with canola oil and sprinkle with cinnamon. Place on skewers or wrap in foil. Grill on low heat for 3 to 5 minutes.

Peach honey spread. In a bowl, add 1 sliced peach, 2 tablespoons honey and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Mash with a fork until the mixture is the consistency of chunky applesauce. Serve as a topping for pancakes or French toast, or serve it over roast chicken or pork.

Lemon-lime fruit dip. Mix together 1/2 cup low-fat, sugar-free lemon yogurt, 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice and 1 teaspoon lime zest. Serve with pineapple chunks, strawberries, diced kiwi, sliced bananas and grapes.

Frozen fruity pops. In a blender, add sliced strawberries and bananas, 1/4 cup orange juice, and 3/4 cup low-fat strawberry yogurt. Blend until smooth. Pour into 2- to 3-ounce molds or paper cups with sticks placed in the centers. Freeze for 3 hours or until completely frozen.

Romaine and fresh strawberry salad. Combine 2 cups romaine lettuce and 1/2 cup sliced strawberries in a bowl. Drizzle with 1 1/2 tablespoons raspberry vinaigrette dressing and toss well. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon cashews.

Blueberry-banana smoothie. In a blender, add 2 fresh or frozen bananas, 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries, and 1 cup low-fat vanilla yogurt. Blend until smooth.

Plum salsa. Mix together 1 cup chopped plum, 1 teaspoon dried cilantro, 2 tablespoons chopped onion, 2 teaspoons cider vinegar, 1/4 teaspoon hot sauce and 1/8 teaspoon salt. Serve with roasted or grilled chicken breasts.

Broiled fruit kebabs. Place cubed fruit, such as cantaloupe, pineapple, mango or honeydew, onto skewers. Place skewers on a baking sheet and sprinkle with brown sugar. Broil until slightly bubbly, about 2 minutes on each side.

Berries a la mode. Place 2 cup berries, such as raspberries, blueberries or strawberries, in a baking dish. Sprinkle with 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon and 1/3 cup low-fat granola. Bake at 350 F until fruit is bubbling, about 30 minutes. Top each serving with 1/2 cup fat-free vanilla ice cream.

Mango salsa pizza. Mix together 1 cup chopped red or green bell peppers, 1/2 cup chopped onion, 1/2 cup chopped mango, 1/2 cup chopped pineapple, 1 tablespoon lime juice, and 1/2 cup fresh cilantro. Spread over a 12-inch prepared pizza crust. Bake at 425 F until the toppings are hot and the crust is browned, about 5 to 10 minutes.

Building a Healthier Breathitt Co. One Step at a Time By: James Elliott Turner II

Top 10 Fruits for Diabetics

1.) Watermelon: Surprising, watermelon is a great source of vitamin C and contains about 6% sugar 92% water… Watermelon is not bad for your blood sugar; a 220g slice is only one carbohydrate exchange (15g). But be cautious of watermelon juice, its concentrated source of carbohydrate that has a high glycamic load. (GL) 2.) Strawberries: There’s nothing better that a bowl of strawberries after a healthy meal. With one and a quarter cup of strawberries the equivalents of one carbohydrate (15g) you’re good to go for some strawberries (just go easy on the cream, and have low-fate yogurt instead). 3.) Cantaloupe: A cup of cubed melon is sure to make you want to wake up in the morning. And it’s only one carb-a great solution to wanting to eat lost of fruit, but not wanting to take too much insulin. 4.) Avocado: Avocado on toast, or tossed into a fresh salad, is a healthy substitute for healthy additives. Feel safe in the knowledge that you won’t be spiking your sugar by indulging in this lunchtime treat. 5.) Honeydew melon: Another favorite, and one that you can enjoy as a dessert on a balmy summer’s evening or as part of a balanced breakfast. Go on, cut up a cup of honeydew, it’s only one carbohydrate. 6.) Peach: A medium peach (weighing about 170g) is one carbohydrate exchange Peaches are loaded with potassium and has an 8% daily value of vitamin C… 7.) Cherries: Cherry-picking is a favorite pastime anywhere it’s offered, and you can see why. A dozen cherries are one carbohydrate exchange so as long as you snack in moderation, these are a good summertime option. 8.) Grapefruit: half a large will give you your one carbohydrate of fruit for your morning meal-and wake you up in the process. The tart taste of grapefruit is a winner for anyone trying to kick starts their day. 9.) Oranges: A small orange might not seem like a lot of fruit, but it’s jam-packed with vitamin C, and not too high in carbohydrates. So it’s a good choice to include this fruit in your diet. 10.) Papaya: Two slices of papaya are one carbohydrate and a delicious addition to yogurt or a breakfast platter. Treat yourself and squeeze a bit of fresh orange onto the papaya slices for tropical taste. Remember to walk at least 45-60 minutes most days of the week.

The following behaviors can be warning signs of problems related to alcohol or other drug
use.

Physical

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Emotional

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Family Relationships

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School Activities

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Fatigue
Repeated health complaints
Frequent flu-like episodes, chest pains, “allergy” symptoms, chronic
cough
Red and glazed eyes
Impaired ability to fight off common infections and fatigue
Impaired short-term memory
Change in health or grooming

Personality change
Sudden mood changes
Irritability, anger, hostility
Irresponsible behavior
Low self-esteem
Poor judgment
Feelings of loneliness, paranoia, or depression
Apathy or general lack of interest
Change in personal priorities

Decreased interest in the family and family activities
Starting arguments
Negative attitude
Verbal (or physical) mistreatment of younger siblings
Breaking rules
Withdrawing from family
Secretiveness
Failure to provide specific answers to questions about activities
Personal time that is unaccounted for
Lying and dishonesty
Unexplained disappearance of possessions in the home
Increased money or poor justification of how money was spent

Decreased interest
Negative attitude
Unexplained drop in grades
Irregular school attendance
Truancy
Discipline problems

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Peer Relationships

Dropping old friends
New group of friends
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Not bringing friends home
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New friends who make poor decisions and are not interested in
school or family activities
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Changes to a different style in dress and music
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Attending parties with no parental supervision
Some of the warning signs listed above can also be signs of other problems. Parents may
recognize signs of trouble but should not be expected to make the diagnosis. Consulting a
physician to rule out physical causes of the warning signs is a good first step. This should often
be followed or accompanied by a comprehensive evaluation by a mental health professional.

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Not returning home after school

If you smoke
If you smoke, you already know you need to quit. It’s bad for your heart, lungs, brain,
and even your family. What if each cigarette created a black pockmark on your face, for instance?
Well, smoking does damage your looks. I have listed below ways smoking is ruining your
appearance.
Bags under your eyes: Don’t you hate it when you can’t get a good night’s sleep—and
it shows on your face? If you smoke, you’re four times as likely as nonsmokers to report feeling
untested after a night’s sleep, according to Johns Hopkins study. Why the lack of shut-eye? It’s
possible that nightly nicotine withdrawal could be causing you to toss and turn.
Psoriasis to be fair, psoriasis is an autoimmune-related skin condition that can show
up even if you never touch a cigarette. However, if you do smoke, your risk for the scaly skin
condition goes up—a lot. According to a 2007 study, if you puff a pack a day for 10 years or less,
psoriasis risk goes up 20 percent; 11-20 years and your risk is 60 percent higher; and for those
who pass the two-decade mark, the psoriasis risk more than doubles. (Even secondhand smoke
during pregnancy or childhood is linked to a higher risk.)
Icky teeth: Wouldn’t you love to have a set of dazzling white, Hollywood-like choppers?
If you smoke, you can kiss that dream good-bye.It’s the nicotine in cigarettes that can stain teeth.
So in addition to the escalating costs of buying and smoking your cigs add in the cost of tooth
whitening. A professional procedure to clean your teeth costs an average of $500 to $1,000.
Premature aging and wrinkles: We can all appreciate a wizened visage—on our favorite
nonagenarian that is. Wrinkles look anything but wise when they show up on a relatively young
person who smokes. And show up they will. Experts agree that smoking accelerates aging, so
that smokers look 1.4 years older than nonsmokers, on average. Why the wrinkly face? Smoking
hampers the blood supply that keeps skin tissue looking supple and healthy.
Yellow fingers: The nicotine in cigarette smoke can not only make your teeth (and the
walls of your home) brown, but it’s also notorious for staining fingers and nails as well. If you
search the Internet, you can find a number of home remedies, including lemon juice, bleach
solutions, and scrubbing with steel wool. Wouldn’t it be easier—and less painful—to just quit?
Thinner hair: As if the wrinkly skin wasn’t enough, smoking hurts your hair too. Experts
think the toxic chemicals in smoke can damage the DNA in hair follicles and generate cell-
damaging free radicals as well. The end result? Smokers have thinner hair that tends to go gray
sooner than nonsmokers. That is, if they have any hair at all. Men who smoke are about twice as
likely to lose their hair as nonsmokers, after taking into account factors that increase the risk of
baldness, such as aging and genetics, according to a 2007 study in Taiwan.
Scarring: Nicotine causes vasoconstriction, a narrowing of the blood vessels that can
limit oxygen-rich blood flow to the tiny vessels in the face or other parts of the body.
This means your wounds will take longer to heal and you’ll have scars that are bigger and redder
than you would in a nonsmoking parallel universe.
Tooth loss: Smoking puts you at greater risk for all kinds of dental problems, including
oral cancer and gum disease. In fact, according to a 2005 U.K. study in the Journal of Clinical
Period ontology, smokers are up to six times more likely than nonsmokers to develop gum
disease, which can lead to tooth loss. Wouldn’t you rather be doing, well, anything other than
sitting in a dentist’s chair?
Natural glow is gone: Ever notice how smokers’ skin sometimes seems off? You’re
not alone. A 1985 study came up with the term Smoker’s Face to describe certain facial
characteristics, such as wrinkles, gauntness, and a gray appearance of the skin, caused by
smoking. Cigarette smoke contains carbon monoxide, which displaces the oxygen in your skin,
and nicotine, which reduces blood flow, leaving skin dry and discolored. Cigarette smoking also
depletes many nutrients, including vitamin C, which helps protect and repair skin damage.

Wound healing: Several studies have found that smokers do not heal as well after
surgeries such as face-lifts, tooth extractions, and periodontal procedures.
So once cigarettes wrinkle up your face, you’ll have a harder time correcting the damage with
cosmetic surgery than people who’ve never smoked.
Skin cancer: Smoking is a leading cause of cancer, including lung, throat, mouth, and
esophageal cancer, so it should be no surprise that cigarettes can also increase your risk of skin
cancer. In fact, according to a 2001 study, smokers are three times as likely to develop squamous
cell carcinoma, the second most common type of skin cancer, than nonsmokers.

What Is Extreme Heat? Conditions of extreme heat are defined as summertime temperatures thatare substantially hotter and/or more humid than average for location at thattime of year. Humid or muggy conditions, which add to the discomfort of hightemperatures, occur when a “dome” of high atmospheric pressure trapshazy, damp air near the ground. Extremely dry and hot conditions can provokedust storms and low visibility. Droughts occur when a long period passeswithout substantial rainfall. A heat wave combined with a drought is a verydangerous situation.

During Hot Weather: To protect your health when temperatures are extremely high, remember tokeep cool and use common sense. The following tips are important:

Drink Plenty of Fluids: During hot weather you will need to increase your fluid intake,regardless of your activity level. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink.During heavy exercise in a hot environment, drink two to four glasses (16-32ounces) of cool fluids each hour.

Warning: If your doctor generally limits the amount of fluid you drink or hasyou on water pills, ask how much you should drink while the weather ishot.Don’t drink liquids that contain alcohol, or large amounts ofsugar—these actually cause you to lose more body fluid. Also avoid verycold drinks, because they can cause stomach cramps.

Replace Salt and Minerals: Heavy sweating removes salt and minerals from the body. These arenecessary for your body and must be replaced. If you must exercise, drink twoto four glasses of cool, non-alcoholic fluids each hour. A sports beverage canreplace the salt and minerals you lose in sweat. However, if you are on alow-salt diet, talk with your doctor before drinking a sports beverage ortaking salt tablets.

Wear Appropriate Clothing andSunscreen: Wear as little clothing as possiblewhen you are at home. Choose lightweight, light-colored, loose-fittingclothing. Sunburn affects your body’s ability to cool itself and causes a lossof body fluids. It also causes pain and damages the skin. If you must gooutdoors, protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat (alsokeeps you cooler) along with sunglasses, and by putting on sunscreen of SPF 15or higher (the most effective products say “broad spectrum” or”UVA/UVB protection” on their labels) 30 minutes prior to going out.Continue to reapply it according to the package directions.

Schedule Outdoor ActivitiesCarefully:If you must be outdoors, try to limityour outdoor activity to morning and evening hours. Try to rest often in shadyareas so that your body’s thermostat will have a chance to recover.

Pace Yourself:If you are not accustomed to working or exercising in a hot environment,start slowly and pick up the pace gradually. If exertion in the heat makes yourheart pound and leaves you gasping for breath, STOP all activity. Get into acool area or at least into the shade, and rest, especially if you becomelightheaded, confused, weak, or faint.

Motorcycle Safety

Beforeyou hit the road after a long winter, give your bike the once-over.
Test the lights, brakes, and turn signals.
Check the oil and fuel levels.
Make sure the mirrors are positioned correctly.
Check the cables to make sure they aren’t worn or     frayed.
Lube the chain and adjust it according to the     manufacturer’s specs.
Try a rider-training course to brush up on your skills.

Investin Good Gear

Whenyou’re on the open road, there’s not much between you and the pavement. Wearingtough gear is always a smart move.
Pick a high-quality helmet that fits well. If it     doesn’t have a face shield, pair it up with goggles or glasses with safety     lenses.
Use safety as your excuse to shell out for that     leather jacket. Get the pants while you’re at it. (We know black and bikes     are a perfect match, but a bright color will help other drivers see you     better.)
Wear durable non-slip gloves.
Invest in boots or sneakers that cover your     ankles.

WhenYou’re Out on the Road

Let’s behonest: There’s a lot of stuff out there that’s bigger than your bike. Butthere’s a lot you can do to help keep yourself safe while riding.
Always wear a helmet that fits right. Pick one     that has the DOT label, which shows that it meets federal safety     standards.
Know your bike’s limits.
Stick to the speed limit.
Don’t tailgate other vehicles.
Use your signals.
Be respectful of other drivers. Don’t weave through     traffic or drive on the shoulder.
Make sure other drivers can see you. Don’t ride     in blind spots and always use your headlights.
Brake smart. Use both brakes at the same time,     slow and steady.

Healthy Gardening

According to the NationalGardening Association, two out of three American households take part in somegardening activity each year. Chores vary regionally but include: raking leaves,transplanting trees and shrubs, planting spring-flowering bulbs and perennials,removing dead branches from trees, controlling troublesome weeds, and lawnmowing. Whether you’re a master gardener or budding amateur, keep these safetytips in mind.
Avoid     overexposure to sun. Limit the time you spend working in     direct sunlight by gardening during early-morning or late-afternoon hours.     This way, you’ll avoid the 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. time period when the sun’s     rays are strongest. Protect your skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts,     pants instead of shorts, and a wide-brimmed hat. When skin is exposed,     apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15. Heat stress can also be a     risk; thus keep water by your side to remain hydrated. Remember to take     frequent breaks by going indoors and relaxing in front of a fan.
Warm     up. Cumulative injuries, such as tennis elbow or     tendentious occur when people overextend themselves on a job they tackle     only once or twice a year. Stretch your upper-body muscles before heading     outside. For overwhelming tasks, enlist help from family members, take     frequent breaks, spread the job across several days or hire professional     help. Also, pulling weeds can result in pain. To prevent strains and     sprains, consider the following:
Keep your back      erect when working at ground level and when using long-handled tools,      such as spades and rakes.
Bend at your knees      and hips to lift objects.
Alternate or use      both arms whenever possible.
Keep your elbows      bent.
Don’t rest your      body weight on your elbows.
Grip hand tools      lightly.
Work below shoulder      level whenever possible. If you must work above shoulder level, perform      the task for five minutes or less.
Be     careful with power equipment. According to the U.S.     Consumer Product Safety Commission, 400,000 people are treated in hospital     emergency rooms each year for injuries from lawn and garden tools. To     prevent a mishap, read equipment-operating instructions and be aware of     your surroundings. Consider the following when operating power tools:
Know how to operate      equipment. Read the manual and follow all instructions.
Wear long pants,      close-fitting clothes, sturdy shoes and safety glasses. Don’t wear      anything that could get caught in moving parts, such as loose jewelry.      Tie back long hair.
Handle gas      carefully. Fill up before you start – when the engine is cold.
Clear the area of      rocks, twigs, toys and anything that could be thrown by mowing equipment.
Keep children and      pets away from the area until you’re finished. Never carry a child as a      passenger on a riding mower.
Keep you hands and      feet away from moving parts. Never work on equipment when it’s running.
Don’t point the      blower nozzle of a leaf blower toward people or pets. Use a dust mask in      a dusty or dirty environment.
Wear earplugs when      using noisy equipment, such as leaf blowers or wood chippers.

July 4thSafety Tips

4th of July and should be a day of fun andcelebration, but it is also one of the most dangerous days of the year. You cankeep your Independence Day fun and safe when you follow the proper safety tips.Whatever your plans are for this holiday, be sure you remember these safetytips.

1.Remember the importance of fireworks safety: Fireworks are illegal in mostcities and they are a fire hazard. Outside city zones where you are allowed touse fireworks, there is still the danger of fire and also of bodily injury.Always read all instructions properly and do not use near wooded or dry areas.

2.Always have water available to put out any sparks or flame that may occur whenusing fireworks.

3.Never point fireworks at people. Always read the directions and have adultspresent. Shoot fireworks outside. Keep a safe distance. Neverattempt to re-light or “fix” fireworks.

4.Do not allow children to play with fireworks or firecrackers. Never use neardry or other flammable materials. Light one at a time.

5.Don’t drink and drive. Always have a designated driver and don’t let yourfriends drive drunk.

6.Be extra cautious on the road. Even if you are not drinking, other people canbe. Drivers also become distracted by fireworks and other excitement in thearea. Be extra cautious if you must be on the road this weekend, especially atnight.

7.Be careful during barbecues that you do not start a fire. Be sure all coals arecompletely out before leaving the barbecue unattended. Be cautious of childrenplaying around the barbecue area.

8.Store food properly to avoid food poisoning. Be careful of leaving food out-especially in the heat.

9.Remember to drink responsibly and to serve foods at the proper temperature.

10.Also, if you have pets, remember pet safety too. Don’t let your beloved petbecome a casualty this 4th of July.

Statisticsshow that over 7,000 people each year get treated for 4th of July relatedaccidents. Fireworks are not toys. Don’t be oneof them. Stay safe this year.

Gwen Randall-Young is an author and award-winning Psychotherapist.  For permission to reprint this article, or to obtain books or cds, visit www.gwen.ca

State Representative

D-Jackson Week of June 13, 2011

FRANKFORT – Conveniently situated between Memorial Day and Independence Day, many people forget to celebrate Flag Day. It’s June 14, and until you read these words, there’s a good chance you forgot, too. It’s not an official holiday that we take a day off from work for, and not many communities have a parade for it. Still, even if you missed the actual day, it’s important to remember Flag Day and its importance.Our flag is the one enduring symbol of the American Dream. All over the world, people fly the Stars & Stripes to show their solidarity with our ideals. Others, when they want to condemn our nation, destroy the flag. It’s not a picture of a bald eagle or apple pie they see as a symbol of America – it’s the flag. One of the most famous photographs ever taken was at Iwo Jima, where six soldiers, including one Kentuckian, committed the simple but valiant act to raise the flag at the top of the small island in the Pacific, proclaiming our eventual victory in that battle and all of World War II. It harkened back to the writing of our national anthem 131 years earlier, when Francis Scott Key saw a tattered flag still flying over Fort McHenry the morning after a fierce battle.I don’t know of another flag that has had a national anthem written for it, and I don’t know of any other flag that is designed, as ours is, to change over time, with each new state earning a star. Like our flag, our people and our national goals are intended to grow with time. I hope we keep progressing as a country, and keep the United States a nation worthy of flying such a glorious flag.