THE DO’S AND DON’T’S FOR PREVENTING HEAT STROKE by Sharleece E. Bellagosi

The summer boasts of temperatures ranging from 90 to 100 degrees. Hot summers with high temperatures often result in heat-related illnesses like heat stroke. Heat stroke is a medical emergency manifesting signs and symptoms: a high temperature, dry skin, red or flushed skin, nausea, dizziness, lack of sweat, vomiting, headache, difficulty breathing, and confusion, fatigue, and muscle cramps. Untreated heat stroke could lead to coma and/death. Therefore, knowing how to prevent heat stroke is essential.

·         Do take rest periods when you are outside.

Resting prevents your body from overheating through activity.

·         Do drink plenty of fluids like water

Drinking plenty of fluids prevents dehydration through fluid loss due to sweating. Sweating helps the body to cool down in the heat to maintain a normal body temperature around 98.6.

·         Do wear light and loose-fitting clothes.

Light and loose-fitting clothes allows for movement and breathing. Moreover, it prevents blockage of pores in the skin that release sweat to help your body cool down in the heat. Plus, dark clothing like black clothing retains heat; whereas, light clothing does not retain heat causing a faster cool down.

·         Do try to stay in the shade

Staying in the shade prevents direct heat and aids in the cool down process of maintaining normal body temperature around 98.6.

·         Do provide emergency care as soon as possible.

Most people are not medical professionals; therefore, the emergency medical service should be notified as soon as possible to further prevent complications associated with heat stroke like dehydration and death. Remember, heat stroke is a medical emergency.

     Conversely,

·         Do not sit in the car for long periods.

The temperature in the car is three times as hot as the temperature outside causing overheating and heat stroke to occur more quickly.

·         Do not drink caffeine drinks like coffee, soda, or tea

Caffeinated drinks like coffee, soda, and tea have a diuretic effect; in other words, they cause you to urinate more often resulting in the loss of essential nutrients like sodium and potassium. In addition, the diuretic effect of caffeinated can lead to dehydration, a component that makes heat stroke life threaten.

·         Do not perform vigorous exercise in the hot sun.

Vigorous exercise causes the body to overheat anywhere; but, the body overheats ten times as fast in the hot sun making it hard for the bodies cool down system to keep up. If the cool down system of the body cannot keep up, heat stroke can result.

     Following the above dos and don’ts with provide a happier and safer summer for those who like to have fun in the sun by preventing a medical emergency like heat stroke. Enjoy the summer.

THE 3 STAGES OF TYPE 2 DIABETES by Reverend Sharleece Bellagosi

          Type 2 Diabetes is on the rise. Type 2 Diabetes used to be known as adult onset diabetes; however, type 2 diabetes no longer affects just adults. With the growing obesity in children, children are now developing type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes will be explained in 3 stages:

1.      Stage 1- The causes of  type 2 diabetes;

2.      Stage 2- The signs and symptoms of type 2 diabetes; and,

3.      Stage 3- The treatment and prevention of type 2 diabetes.

4.      Stage 4- The worst case scenario.

     Stage 1, the causes of type 2 diabetes involve the beta cells that produce insulin in the pancreas not producing the amount of insulin that the body requires to metabolize glucose. The reason the beta cells may not produce enough insulin often is due to obesity, improper diet, lack of exercise, and lack of sleep. In fact, according to neuroscientist Orfeu Buxton from Boston’s Brighams and Womens Hospital, “Studies have shown that people who get less than 5 hours of sleep a night have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.”

     Stage 2, the signs and symptoms of type 2 diabetes are similar to the signs and symptoms of type 1 diabetes: excessive thirst, excessive urination, and excessive hunger. If a person is experiencing the above signs and symptoms he/she should make an appointment to have his/her blood sugar level checked.

     Stage 3, the treatment and prevention of type 2 diabetes are the same—diet and exercise. Since type 2 diabetes is not related to a malfunctioning pancreas, type 2 diabetes is reversible. The way to reverse type 2 diabetes is to lose weight, usually losing about 20 or 30 pounds will reverse type 2 diabetes. Then, maintaining the diet and exercise regimen will prevent the type 2 diabetes from returning.

     Stage 4, the worst case scenario involves the person who does not want to diet and exercise to reverse type 2 diabetes will receive medication intervention like insulin injection or oral insulin along with an order for diet and exercise. Type 2 diabetes becomes a problem if people with type 2 diabetes are noncompliant with Doctor’s orders. Complications like neuropathy (lack of feeling in the legs and feet), loss of sight, renal failure, and loss of legs and feet due to noncompliance with Doctor’s orders; therefore, following Doctor’s orders is the best policy for a person with type 2 diabetes.

    So, eat healthy and exercise to prevent type 2 diabetes.

    

My 10 Best Mother's Day Gifts by Reverend Sharleece E. Bellagosi

On Sunday May 13, 2012, another Mother's Day will arrive giving me time to reflect upon the 10 best Mother's Day Gifts. Starting with number 10 and working my way to number 1:

10. A box of chocolates. A minute on my lips, but forever on my hips-tasty chocolates.

9. Flowers. Roses are the most given on Mother's Day. In fact, I recall a gentleman in downtown Seattle who passed out roses to every woman who passed by on Mother's Day; because, he "loved women and loved mothers."

8. A free dinner. It is always a pleasure to not cook and to have a free meal.

7. Relaxation. A day to take the load off after running after the kids, working 9am to 5pm, and cleaning house is a blessing. Thank you God for creating Mother's Day.

6. Clothing. A new article of clothing is always nice. If you do not like it, you can always return it.

5. Peace and quiet. I always relish the me time without the kids to enjoy the things that I like to do without the complaining.

4. Jewelry. Diamonds really are a girls second best friend. A house fully paid for might really be my best friend.

3. Car. Seriously, I once received a brand new car for Mother's Day it was Awesome.

2. Thoughtfulness. Although an awkward word, the kids and other family helping by doing things around the house without being asked is very thoughtful.

1. Kids. God bless them. It would not be a Mother's Day if they did not exist.

I would like to see your 10 best Mother's Day gifts. Share them here at www.sharleece.blogspot.com.
Happy Mother's Day.

La Berry Frozen Yogurt: A tasty treat with southern origins by Reverend Sharleece E. Bellagosi

La Berry Frozen Yogurt: A tasty treat with southern origins

By

Reverend Sharleece E. Bellagosi

     La Berry Frozen Yogurt that looks like ice cream without the calories was founded in Savannah, GA in 2010.  La Berry rotates flavors each with key flavors like fudsicle, heath bar, taro, blaze, and caramel. The toppings offer at La Berry are numerous: white chocolate, mini turtles, various fruits, captain crunch, cheese cake, cookie dough, brownies, and granola to name a few; however, La Berry has about 25 topping choices. La Berry Frozen Yogurt is beloved by all who have tried its goodness. For instance, Kelli Robertson writes, “La' Berry should really consider renaming themselves Crack Berry! My coworkers and I have fallen in love with this place, and look forward to taking a much-needed mid-day LB break multiple times during the week!! We all agree that Taro is the best flavor because it's the most versatile; you can really take advantage of all of the great toppings that are offered (I personally love the hemp seed granola). However, this doesn't stop us from enjoying samples of the other ever-changing flavors! The staff at La' Berry is always upbeat and friendly, and we truly feel that when they say, "It's great to see you guys!” they really mean it. LB is always bustling no matter what time of day you stop by, and it's a great mixture of couples, families, students and tourists. It's a happy place to visit and the highlight of my day whenever I stop by for a cup. Keep up the great work, guys!!” While, Dustin Chancellor stated, “I absolutely love this place. I have known Jack and Lori for a few months now and they are such spectacular people. They sell a wonderful product that is so delicious. And now they're thinking about expanding to Macon and Warner Robins?! Now I can eat their yogurt when I'm in Savannah and when I go home to visit family.” Furthermore, Zach Selby, “I love this place! There are many flavors and especially toppings to choose from. It is a great place to hang out. The yogurt is just amazing. I defiantly recommend going here!” Even though taste is what draws people to La berry for frozen yogurt, other positive benefits exist for eating la berry frozen yogurt.

     The Pros of eating la berry frozen yogurt:

1.      La berry frozen yogurt is a low calorie treat possess 0 calories before adding toppings.

2.      La berry frozen yogurt is a tasty, guilt-free alternative to ice cream due to the low calories.

3.      La berry offers 10% of to college students, military, teachers, veterans, and other college staff.

4.      La berry offers a frequent eater card, where six purchases give the customer a free frozen yogurt.

5.      La berry is affordable given that the café is a specialty café.

6.      La berry offers free Wi-Fi.

7.      La berry offers a relaxing, family-friendly atmosphere.

8.      La berry offers a variety of toppings

The Cons of eating la berry frozen yogurt:

1.      The types of topping that la berry offers are sometimes high calorie, so the customer has to use his/her discretion when choosing toppings.

2.      La berry frozen yogurt is soooo tasty that it is easy to find yourself running to la berry several times a week.

     Lastly, if you are sitting at home wanting to take your family on a fun outing that everyone would enjoy, la berry is a good choice. Everyone likes ice cream and frozen yogurt looks like ice cream; plus, everyone can choose his/her own toppings. La berry receives a blazeview V for Victory; because, this place is a winner. La berry is located at 1650 D Baytree Rd, Valdosta, GA 31602.

Reverend Sharleece's Famous Shrimp Salad

Reverend Sharleece's Famous Shrimp Salad is guaranteed to be like nothing you have ever tasted before. I pondered over whether to share this recipe with the public or not. Sharing won, so here it is.

Ingredients:
1 can of shrimp or 1 small bag of fresh shrimp
  3 small strawberries
1 green onion
1 tablespoon of barbaque chipotle sauce

Directions:
Clean and drain the shrimp from the can. If using fresh shrimp, clean and cook the shrimp according to package directions. Can shrimp is already cooked. Next, clean and cut the strawberries and green onions. Pour all of the ingredients into a large bowl. Mix the ingredients. Serve on bread, lettuce, or eat it straight out of a bowl with crackers. You will not be disappointed.

STAND YOUR GROUND LAW IN FLORIDA UNDER ATTACK AFTER TRAYVON MARTIN CASE By Reverend Sharleece E. Bellagosi On April 27, 2012, the stand your ground law in Florida came under attack as a response to public outcry over the Trayvon Martin Case. The highly publicized case of a 17 year old African American teenage shot by George Zimmerman a middle-aged Hispanic male on February 26, 2012. The stand your ground law became a law in Florida after a James Workman in Pensacola, Florida shot an assailant who attacked him in his car in 2004. After months of litigation, the Florida court ruled in favor of James Workman due to self-defense. Senators Martin Hammer and Durell Peaden drafted the stand your ground law that is used in Florida today. Basically, the stand your ground law in Florida allows an individual to use whatever force necessary even deadly force to protect life, family, friends, and property. On February 26, 2012, George Zimmerman stated that he was correct in shooting Trayvon Martin, because he felt his life was in danger. Initially, the stand your ground law protected George Zimmerman from prosecution; however, the public claimed that Trayvon Martin deserved justice being an unarmed teenage who was shot. Therefore, the stand your ground law is being questioned and George Zimmerman is being prosecuted. The question remains should the stand your ground law in Florida be overturned or amended based on current events and public attitude? The state of Florida and Governor Rick Scott has formed a task force of 19 people to address issues of public safety and stand your ground law reform if required. The 19 member group will be known as the Citizens Safety and Protection Task Force of Florida. State Representative Dwight Bullard writes, " prior to convening this committee, you stated publicly that the group would not go in with any preconceived notions, but instead would take the task of reviewing not only Stand Your Ground but issues of public safety in general,” to Governor Rick Scott. The decisions made by the Citizens Safety and Protection Task Force of Florida can impact the United States as a whole; because, currently, more 20 states have a stand your ground type law in place. In fact, if you live in Alabama, Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, or Washington, you live in a Stand your ground state. Other states not mentioned are under a similar law known as the Castle Doctrine where deadly force is acceptable within the home only as a form of self-defense of life, family, friend, and/or property. Was Trayvon Martin’s shooting racial motivated and will that be a basis for stand your ground reform? The answer to this question is unclear; but, according to Awr Hawkins, “The NAACP is in support of Florida’s stand your ground law.” Why? Again, according to Awr Hawkins, “a black female Floridian who was charged with assault for shooting at a man whom she claims threatened her life. The woman, Marissa Danielle Alexander, was assaulted by her husband, who allegedly strangled her during the assault. While being attacked, Alexander was able to grab her handgun and fire a single shot, for which she faces charges. The NAACP maintains that under Florida’s stand your ground law, Alexander ought not be sentenced for assault.” Though Trayvon Martin’s death was tragic and unfortunate, should the rest of the country face the possibility of being unprotected legal should they find themselves in a life or death situation where self-defense even deadly force is the only way to survive? The nation will find out as the stand your ground law continues to be questioned by the public and by the Citizens Safety and Protection Task Force of Florida.

Real Estate Agent Craig Duckworth sent this tasty Bourbon Baked Ham to Interesting Prospective: Bourbon Baked Ham INGREDIENTS: 1 cup honey 1/2 cup molasses 1/2 cup bourbon 1/4 cup orange or pineapple juice 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard 1 (6 to 8-pound) smoked ham half DIRECTIONS: Microwave honey and molasses in a 1-quart glass dish at HIGH 1 minute. Whisk to blend. Whisk in bourbon, juice, and mustard. Remove skin and fat from ham and place in a foil-lined 13x9-inch pan. Lightly grease foil. Make 1/4-inch-deep cuts in ham in a diamond pattern. Pour Bourbon glaze over ham. Bake on lower oven rack at 350° for 3 hours or until a meat thermometer inserted into thickest portion registers 140°. Baste every 15 minutes with Bourbon glaze. Remove from pan. Bring drippings to a boil in a small saucepan. Serve with ham. Enjoy.

BULLYING DAMAGES HEARTS, SOULS, AND ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE By Reverend Sharleece E Bellagosi

  What I have learned over the past year as a Reverend, College student, Tutor/Teacher of children k-12, and Journalist is that bullying has profound negative effects that are hard to recover from period. It is important that people know about positive stress vs. negative stress, methods of bullying, signs and symptoms from being bullied, and how to stop being bullied. This experience is near and dear to my heart; because recently I have dealt with bullying in college and while tutoring. The effects of bullying on me as a person was excessive; however, my bullying was not coming from the place that people would expect—my peers. My bullying was coming from Instructors and Supervisors. Before coming to this city, I have never experienced this type of bullying. The effects of bullying immediately manifested itself when my grades went from straight A’s to B’s and C’s, and my attendance went from showing up every day to barely attending. Moreover, I stopped eating for a while, and became unhappy with my current situation. The stress was unbelievably high and almost unbearable. Luckily, I am pretty tough coming through scarred, but capable of healing. Some people are not so lucky.
     Bullying among teenagers has increased the rate of teen suicide; however, bullying is not age specific. Tim Field states, “There's only one way of dealing with stress - that's to identify the cause and then work to reduce or eliminate that cause. I believe bullying is the main, but least recognized, cause of stress in the workplace today." Stress can be positive or negative. Dr. Peter Graham says, “Positive stress enhances well-being and can be harnessed to enhance performance and fuel achievement. Negative stress diminishes quality of life and causes injury to health resulting in the symptoms” like poor academic or work-related performance, depression, tardiness, and other issues. Dr. Peter Graham, further, states, “Stress is not the employee's inability to cope with excessive workloads and the unreasonable demands of incompetent and bullying managers; stress is a consequence of the employer's failure to provide a safe system of work. Blaming the sufferer of stress for suffering stress is an admission of failure to fulfill this obligation of duty of care.”
     Methods of bullying utilized in the workplace include public humiliation, verbal assault, physical assault like hitting, sexual assault like booty grabbing, shame like giving others credit for the bullied individuals work, and threat of loss of finances or grades if the person being bullied do not take it and like it. Moreover, another method of bullying is emotional assault where the individual is degraded for his/her personal interest and existence like making it clear that no matter what that individual does is wrong even when it is correct.
     Signs and symptoms from bullying are numerous: stress, anxiety ,fatigue, irritability, reactive depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, psychiatric injury, poor concentration, forgetfulness, confusion, withdrawal from people, excessive biting, panic attacks, mood swings, comfort spending, insecurity, low self-confidence, angry outburst, loss of self-love, and possibly suicide,” according to Dr. Patrick Graham and Dr. Daniel A. Peterson. Dr. Patrick Graham says, “false diagnoses commonly given include schizophrenia, paranoia, work phobia, school phobia, borderline personality disorder (as a cause rather than a symptom).” In fact,” these neurological scars, it turns out, closely resemble those borne by children who are physically and sexually abused in early childhood,” states Dr. Daniel A. Peterson. “Poor concentration, impaired memory, and fatigue are common and early signs of excessive stress,” reinterates Dr. Patrick Graham. Moreover, Dr. Graham continues, work colleagues often withdraw their support and then join in with the bullying, which increases the stress and consequent psychiatric injury.
     Work colleagues often support the bullying for fear of being bullied, fired, or ridiculed. In addition, the bully encourages and manipulates bystanders to lie, act dishonourably and dishonestly, withhold information and spread misinformation.” The best way to deal with bullying is to remove himself/herself from the situation. However, if removing himself/herself from the situation is not an option, the bullied individual can report to his/her superior’s superior or bring a lawsuit. In the college setting, the chain of command is the Dean of the department, then the Vice President of Academic Affairs.
    What should be learned from this article is that bullying should not be tolerate or joined. The effects of bullying are long-lasting and damaging. Knowing what to do and how to stop bullying is the only way to gain control over a negative situation and turn it back into a positive situation.