The Red Pump Project

Save the Date: Thursday, March 10th.

Are YOU ready to Rock the Red Pump? Just 'ike' The Red Pump Project on Facebook and find out what the fuss is all about...


...and NOW, to find the perfect RED shoe!

*Smooches&Hugs*

PARADE brings us...'dash'

Celebrate Valentine's Day (with chocolate griddle cakes!) and American Heart Month (with delicious, healthy recipes) with dash! In addition to giving you sweets for your "sweetie", this issue marks the first collaboration with Condé Nast Publications' Bon Appétit, Epicurous.com and Gourmet Magazine.

Be sure to check out http://www.dashrecipes.com/ SOON and register for the Giada De Laurentiis Bakeware giveaway (read: Almond Muffins) as well!

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PARADE Proudly Presents First Monthly Issue of New Food Magazine dash; Fall in Love With Breakfast; Indulge in Chocolate Pancakes for Valentine’s Day

New York - February 2011 -- The first official issue of dash, the new monthly food magazine from the publishers of PARADE, will begin monthly publication in your newspaper on or around February 9! This issue marks the celebration of matters of the heart with recipes that are simple, fast and delicious. Who said you shouldn’t eat dessert first? From chocolate pancakes to Mini King Cakes for Mardi Gras, desserts rule this Valentine’s Day! And our Good-for-You All-Stars, like salmon and broccoli, will satisfy those who want something both delicious and nutritious.

Here’s a quick peak at the February issue of dash:

Love It! A breakfast staple gets a Valentine’s makeover: Chocolate griddle cakes: Three delicious toppings will give this treat an even more lovin’ feeling, whether for couple time or kid-friendly fun (fruit slices, heavy cream and chocolate, ice cream).

Dinner in a dash

Easy Meals Under $12 includes recipes for Pasta with Peas and Ham; Potato, Bacon, and Sour Cream Frittata; Roast Chicken & Root Vegetables

Shop Smart:

Olive Oil is “much more than a salad and sauce go-to. Flavorful new oils can now be used in your favorite baked goods,” says dash. Crisco’s Cooking Spray is ranked “best” for its even coverage. Also featured: Bertolli Classico, Lucini Extra Virgin and Annie’s Roasted Garlic Flavored. Check out our recipe for a “Quickie Vinaigrette”.

Dashboard: Our Monthly Q&A Feature

Is there a real difference between salted and unsalted butter? What’s an easy, festive Oscar snack (sugar & spice popcorn!)? Are the benefits of whole grains the same whether cooked or raw?

Recipe of the Month by Giada De Laurentiis: Almond Muffins

No-Fuss Book Club Bites: Pear Wedges with Prosciutto & Mint

How to...Make Pears Kid-Friendly (with ham and cheese on crackers, in a grilled cheese sandwich, dipped in yogurt)

This Dessert Rules! Mini King Cakes—they’re a traditional Mardi Gras treat. A plastic trinket is slid inside after baking. Whoever finds it has to bring next year’s cake!

Under the direction of PARADE Editor Maggie Murphy, dash aims to help readers get simple, fast, delicious meals on the table every day. dash blends original content with some of the most popular features from four of America’s most trusted food sources: Bon Appétit, Epicurous.com, Gourmet and PARADE.

Check out more great tips and recipes online at http://www.dashrecipes.com/ and look for dash every month in your local newspaper. For more information on dash, contact:

Christie Emden, VP Communications at 212-450-7049
Alexis Collado, Associate Director of Publicity at 212-450-7014

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*Smooches&Hugs*

February 2011: National "Wear Red" Day

February is American Heart Health Month.

Celebrate with American Heart Association by supporting Go Red for Women and rocking your most fab, fly 'fit...in RED! On Friday, February 4th, "go red" for a GOOD cause.

Be sure to RSVP via Facebook and tell five women to do the same!


Archives:

• National Wear Red" Day 2010
• National "Wear Red" Day 2009

*Smooches&Hugs*

Rave Review: HINT Essence Water

"Drink water, not sugar."

Six flavors to choose from. What's YOUR favorite?
Source: 5W Public Relations

September is Childhood Obesity Awareness Month and HINT is doing there part to fight the growing problem with American children. HINT is collaborating with the Alliance for a Healthier Generation and offering its unsweetened flavored waters to students in schools across the country.


San Francisco mother of four, Kara Goldin launched HINT Water to offer families a healthier alternative to sugary juices and sodas. HINT has no calories, no sugar and no artificial flavors or preservatives. HINT is designed to taste great without tasting sweet.

It comes in these delicious flavors: Blackberry, Watermelon, Pomegranate-Tangerine, Mango-Grapefruit, Strawberry-Kiwi and Raspberry-Lime. HINT Essence Water can be found in fine grocery stores and retailers all over the United States or purchased online at http://www.drinkhint.com/.

Check out First Lady Michelle Obama's Hula-Hoop workout!
Source: 5W Public Relations

 
*What I sampled:
Pomegranate-Tangerine: My first (and favorite) of the bunch. I've been on a pomegranate kick for about a year now, so this was right on time. The tangerine was a welcome surprise and flowed nicely. I really like these flavors together.
 
Blackberry: Different, but I liked it. I've never had blackberry ANYTHING by itself. I was nervous, but surprised at how good it tasted.
 
Watermelon: I actually drank this while eating a bowl of yellow watermelon and strawberries. Go figure. Oddly enough, it wasn't the overkill that you'd/I'd imagine.
 
Mango-Grapefruit: Since I'm not a fan of either fruit, I decided to make some HINT ice cubes instead. It added just a tad bit of flavor to my already sweetened yummy lemonade. However, before making the ice, I took a mini sip of it. Not bad, but I knew I wouldn't finish the bottle.
 
HINT Essence Water is great for those who aren't fans of "plain" water (i.e., my mother and her grandchildren). Its just a 'hint' (if you will) of flavor without tasting too sweet. Not that I mind sweet, but it wa a nice switch and encouraged me to cut back on the sugary sweet juices that I love oh-so-very much. *le sigh* I suggest serving it ICE cold. It freezes well and I love having little ice "slushies" in my water bottle. Kids will like it, because its not as boring as they think water can be.
 
HINT Essence Water is perfect for a nice, hot Summer day (which DC's had plenty of lately) when you want juice, but need water instead.
 
*Duly Note: I spy with my (big) eyes...a fun frugal find! --> I was in TJMaxx in Arundel Mills Mall (Hanover, MD) and saw several flavors available for only $1.99!
 
*FTC Disclaimer: Samples of HINT Essence Water were provided by 5W Public Relations (New York, NY). Monetary compensation not applicable.
 

*Smooches&Hugs*

“Toast Your Glasses and Pair Your Cheese:

Beemster Goes Pink for a Second Time in the Fight against Breast Cancer”

October signifies a time for individuals and products alike to rally in the fight against breast cancer by going pink. Beemster, the only official cheese sponsor, will be going pink for the second year in a row by partnering with Susan G. Komen for the Cure to help raise money and awareness for breast cancer research.

It’s time to toast your wine glasses to this empowering movement while pairing your cheese accordingly!

The limited edition Pink Ribbon Vlaskaas cheese will be available from September 15 through October 31, and for every pound sold, Beemster, will donate 50 cents to benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure. After donating $23,308 in 2009, the Gourmet Dutch company is pledging a minimum of $25,000 in 2010 and has set a goal of $40,000.

Please contact me if you are interested in learning more about Beemster cheese and how they are helping Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

Best,
Abi for Beemster
212.752.8338

*Smooches&Hugs*

Healthy Crap: 30 Days to More Fruits and Veggies

Source: SparkPeople

This Summer has been chock-full-of good food, lots of fun and more food. Sometimes it was a healthy entree, other times it was a balance of healthy and "bad" stuff. Then there were the times where it was all-the-way "bad" :-(  Yeah, I know.

Since SOME of us need to be bikini-ready for Winter ;-) now's a good time to get a move-on. If you're anything like ME, you need to improve your fruit and veggie intake.

---> Click here to get your FREE calendar. (You'll need Adobe Acrobat Reader to view) I have a copy at home on the fridge and tacked to my wall at work, so there's no excuse for me to miss a beat. Motivation!

Maybe this will help us all take things day by day...

Please keep me posted on your progress and I promise to do the same.

Good luck!

*Smooches&Hugs*

Springtime Allergies: Nip Them in the Bud

Its that time of year again...allergy season!

Great. *le sigh*

Lucky for us, Mayo Clinic is here to help. They've got the answers to our "Help! I have allergies."-questions.

Reduce your exposure to pollen

There are a number of things that you can do to reduce your exposure to your allergy triggers:

• Stay indoors on dry, windy days — the best time to go outside is after a good rain, which helps clear pollen from the air.  
• Delegate lawn mowing, weed pulling and other gardening chores that stir up allergens.  
• Remove clothes you've worn outside; you may also want to shower to rinse pollen from your skin and hair.  
• Ban your pets from your bed or couch — pollen clings to pet fur.  
• Don't hang laundry outside — pollen can stick to sheets and towels.  
• If you do outside chores, wear a dust mask.

But, wait...There's more!

Similar posts:

• Allergies Suck! Series: What Are Allergies? (May 2009) 

Be sure to cover your face when you (or someone else) feel a sneeze comin on.

*Smooches&Hugs*

Panera Bread: Bold & Spicy Flavors

Media Contact:

Gillian Maffeo

Mullen for Panera Bread

617-226-9937

gmaffeo@mullen.com  

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Panera Bread® Turns Up the Heat with Bold & Spicy Flavors for Spring

New Cuban Chicken Panini,

Jalapeño and Cheddar Bagel Breakfast Sandwich Introduced

Richmond Heights, MO, March 24, 2010 – Panera Bread is tempting the wilder side of taste buds this spring with its new bold and spicy Cuban Chicken Panini and new Jalapeño and Cheddar Bagel Breakfast Sandwich.

The new Cuban Chicken Panini is the latest example of Panera’s unique version of an iconic recipe. Made with all-natural antibiotic-free chicken, lean smoked ham, Swiss cheese, chipotle mayo, sun-dried tomato ale mustard and served on freshly baked focaccia, this panini showcases the flavor profile of a traditional Cuban sandwich in a novel way. Panera’s Cuban sandwich also incorporates sweet and spicy pickle chips. These pickle chips -- marinated in a jalapeño-infused brine -- add an extra kick of heat and crunch and are undoubtedly the star of this new sandwich.

“After more than a year of development, we decided to test our Cuban Chicken Panini in the heart of the Cuban community -- Miami,” explained Panera’s Head Chef Dan Kish, a former associate dean at The Culinary Institute of America. “While it was a risk to introduce our spin on a Cuban sandwich to a particularly demanding customer base, we figured that if it could succeed there, it could succeed anywhere. Judging by our customers’ response in Miami, we’re confident our take on the Cuban sandwich is going to be a welcome addition to the menu.”

For those looking to spice up their You Pick Two® combination, the low-fat, vegetarian Black Bean Soup is a tasty complement to this new panini.

Another flavorful addition to the menu is the Jalapeño and Cheddar Bagel Breakfast Sandwich. The base for this sandwich is the newly created Jalapeño and Cheddar Bagel, which brings a new level of spice and flavor to breakfast. The traditional flour has been replaced with corn flour for an intense, authentic roasted flavor with mild yellow cheddar added to the dough for a touch of smooth creaminess. The sandwich also features an all-natural, freshly-cracked egg, Vermont white cheddar and a slice of lean smoked ham. Commented Kish, “As the bagel sandwich heats up in our panini press, it intensifies the flavors of the bagel, melding together the roasted notes of the corn, the smokiness of the ham, the sharpness of the cheese and subtle heat of the jalapeños.”

Panera’s bakers have also been crafting some delectable new baked goods including a Strawberries & Cream Scone and Apple Crunch Muffin. The cream-based Strawberries and Cream scone is made with dried infused strawberries, white chocolate chips and strawberry bits. These five basic ingredients -- flour, sugar, heavy cream, baking soda and salt -- all help create an airy and delicate texture.

“The beauty of this scone is in its simplicity,” explained Panera’s Head Baker Tom Gumpel, former associate dean at The Culinary Institute of America and certified master baker. “With only carefully selected ingredients, this powerfully simple Strawberries and Cream scone is a great choice for breakfast or a snack.”

The reduced fat, sweet Apple Crunch Muffin features freshly chopped apple chunks, topped with the crumbly cinnamon and sugar topping from Panera’s signature Cinnamon Crunch Bagel.

About Panera Bread
Panera Bread Company owns and franchises 1,380 bakery-cafes as of December 29, 2009 under the Panera Bread®, Saint Louis Bread Co.®, and Paradise Bakery & Café® names. With our identity rooted in handcrafted, fresh-baked, artisan bread, we are committed to providing great tasting, quality food that people can trust. Nearly all of our bakery-cafes have a menu highlighted by antibiotic free chicken, whole grain bread, select organic and all-natural ingredients, with zero grams of artificial trans fat per serving, which provide flavorful, wholesome offerings. Our menu includes a wide variety of year-round favorites, complemented by new items introduced seasonally with the goal of creating new standards in everyday food choices. In neighborhoods across this country and in Ontario, Canada, our customers enjoy our warm and welcoming environment featuring comfortable gathering areas, relaxing decor, and free internet access. Our bakery-cafes routinely donate bread and baked goods to community organizations in need. Additional information is available on the Company’s website, http://www.panerabread.com/.

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As you should know, Panera Bread is one of my all-time favs for breakfast (spinach-bacon egg souffle, pumpkin muffies and a low-fat strawberry smoothie to finish it off), lunch (chipotle chicken sandwhich, broccoli cheddar soup, kettle-cooked chips and ice-cold lemonade to wash it all down.) or TV snack (an apple artisian pastry...or two). Its got everything you could ever want in a bakery-cafe.

 

Check out a few of my previous posts and helpful information:

• Panera Bread to Post Calories at Corporate-Owned Stores (March 9, 2010)
• Panera Bread: Pink Ribbon Bagel (October 2009)
• Nutritional Guide (Adobe Reader required)
• Nutritional Calculator

*Smooches&Hugs*

Panera Bread to Post Calories at Corporate Owned Stores

Yum!

Panera Bread has announced that it will post calorie information on all Company-owned Panera Bread and Saint Louis Bread Co.® bakery-cafe menu boards by April 2010. The bakery-cafe concept expects franchise-operated locations to follow suit and have calories posted on menu panels by the end of 2010. This would make Panera Bread the first national concept to voluntarily post calorie information on menu boards across the country.

Christine Peterson
Assistant Account Executive
Social Media Enthusiast
Mu//en
40 Broad Street
Boston, MA 02109-4309
CPeterson@mullen.com

Panera Bread® First National Restaurant Concept

to Post Calorie Information on All Menu Boards

New Menu Panels to Complete Rollout to Company-Owned Bakery-Cafes by April 2010,

System-wide by Year’s End

RICHMOND HEIGHTS, MO, March 10, 2010 – Panera Bread has announced that it will post calorie information on all Company-owned Panera Bread and Saint Louis Bread Co.® bakery-cafe menu boards by April 2010. The bakery-cafe concept expects franchise-operated locations to follow suit and have calories posted on menu panels by the end of 2010. This would make Panera Bread the first national concept to voluntarily post calorie information on menu boards across the country.

“We are pleased to be the first national concept to provide this level of transparency to customers,” said Scott Davis, Panera’s Chief Concept Officer. “It comes from our commitment to providing nutrition information and wholesome foods our customers can trust.”

This menu labeling effort is part of Panera’s long-standing dedication to providing customers with nutritious choices and the information to make wise decisions for themselves.

“As we’ve been introducing our new menu boards across the country, customers have responded very favorably,” Davis said. “We’ve seen them gravitating towards options that allow them to customize their meals such as our You Pick Two® where they can pair smaller portions of our soups, salads or sandwiches to create a meal with fewer calories.”

“This whole initiative prompted us to take an even closer look at our menu offerings,” Davis said. “The result was we improved the nutritional content and ingredients in several of our menu items. We view it as a ‘win-win’ for both our customers and Panera.”

In addition to the calorie information on the menu boards, full nutrition information is available via an innovative nutrition calculator on the company’s web site, www.panerabread.com, where customers can customize their meals and make modifications to fit their preferences. Customers can also find more complete nutrition information in all Panera Bread and Saint Louis Bread Co. bakery-cafes by asking an associate to see a nutritional binder.

“Our efforts in this area will continue to evolve,” said Davis. “We support initiatives that promote greater transparency for our customers.”

Panera Bread is frequently recognized as a leader in offering nutritious food options. In March 2009, Health magazine named Panera Bread the #1 healthiest in the country for eating on-the-go. Panera Bread was praised for offering customers the choice of apples or baked chips as a side item, Panera’s You Pick Two smaller-size soups, salads and sandwiches, and antibiotic-free chicken options. Additionally, Panera was awarded a #1 ranking for Best Healthy Options among large chains (those with up to 5,000 locations) in Zagat’s 2009 National Restaurant Chains Survey.

About Panera Bread
Panera Bread Company owns and franchises 1,380 bakery-cafes as of December 29, 2009 under the Panera Bread®, Saint Louis Bread Co.®, and Paradise Bakery & Café® names. With our identity rooted in handcrafted, fresh-baked, artisan bread, we are committed to providing great tasting, quality food that people can trust. Nearly all of our bakery-cafes have a menu highlighted by antibiotic free chicken, whole grain bread, select organic and all-natural ingredients, with zero grams of artificial trans fat per serving, which provide flavorful, wholesome offerings. Our menu includes a wide variety of year-round favorites, complemented by new items introduced seasonally with the goal of creating new standards in everyday food choices. In neighborhoods across this country and in Ontario, Canada, our customers enjoy our warm and welcoming environment featuring comfortable gathering areas, relaxing decor, and free internet access. Our bakery-cafes routinely donate bread and baked goods to community organizations in need. Additional information is available on the Company’s website, http://www.panerabread.com/.

Matters discussed in this news release relating to the Company’s future plans contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. All forward-looking statements included in this release are made only as of the date of this release, and we do not undertake any obligation to publicly update or correct any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that occur or which we hereafter become aware, after that date. Forward-looking information expresses management's present belief, expectations, or intentions regarding the Company. The Company's actual results could differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements due to known and unknown risks and uncertainties and could be negatively impacted by a number of factors including changes in the laws and regulations regarding nutrition or menu labeling, franchisee participation in the program, and those risks that are discussed from time to time in the Company's SEC reports, including its Form 10-K for the year ended December 28, 2009 and its quarterly reports on Form 10-Q.

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*Smooches&Hugs*

World AIDS Day 2009

Be informed.

Let's get Educated! In Maryland (according to Whitman-Walker Clinic, and Center for Disease Control reports)

• Did you know that 78% of the AIDS cases are in the Black American Community?
• Did you know that Maryland ranks #19 of 50 states in HIV cases a/o 2007?
• Did you know that Maryland has a reported 2100 new infection cases of HIV annually since 1994?

Be entertained.

to the youth and members of Reid Temple AME Church. “The Days of Our Lives” is an eight scene production that promoting HIV/AIDS awareness and focusing on issues that our youth face today. The goal of this fashion show is to have an fun, entertaining way to reach our youth on the issues of HIV/AIDS, along with other issues that affect our youth. The actors involved also, are youth. Free & Confidential HIV testing will be offered by the Baltimore Coalition for HIV Providers.

Be safe.

Kudos:

Michelle D. Morgan, mba

HIV Testing CounselorEducatorMobilizer

"be educated. be healthy. and LIVE....passionately!"

know your status www.hivtest.org

In the Press:

National Minority AIDS Council

Black AIDS Institute (page 46)

*Smooches&Hugs*

Chill Out Challenge: Week 2 (stress reduction through exercise)

Dear Chill Out Challenge Participant:

Welcome to Week 2 of the Chill Out Challenge. This week’s post will focus on ‘stress reduction through exercise’.



How does exercise reduce stress?

• Exercise increases your overall health and your sense of well-being, which puts more pep in your steps every day. But exercise also has some direct stress-busting benefits.


• It pumps up your endorphins. Physical activity helps to bump up the production of your brain's feel-good neurotransmitters, called endorphins. Although this function is often referred to as a runner's high, a rousing game of tennis or a nature hike also can contribute to this same feeling.


• It's meditation in movement. After a fast-paced game of racquetball or several laps in the pool, you'll often find that you've forgotten the day's dilemmas and irritations and concentrated only on your body's movements. As you begin to regularly shed your daily tensions through movement and physical activity, you may find that this focus on a single task, and the resulting energy and optimism, can help you remain calm and clear in everything that you do.


• It improves your mood. Regular exercise can increase self-confidence and lower the symptoms associated with mild depression and anxiety. This can ease your stress levels and give you a sense of command over your body and your life.

How to get started...

Every successful exercise program begins with a few simple steps:

• Consult with your doctor. Always be sure to clear your level of activity with him or her!
• Walk before you run. Start slow and work your way up
• Do what you love.
• Pick a time and stick to it.

Motivation to keep moving!
Starting an exercise program is just the first step. Here are some tips for sticking with a new routine or reinvigorating a tired workout:

• Set some goals.
• Find a friend.
• Change up your routine.
• Exercise = less stress

Whatever you do, don't think of exercise as just one more thing on your to-do list. Find an activity you enjoy — whether it's an active tennis match or a meditative meander down to a local park and back — and make it part of your regular routine. Any form of physical activity can help you unwind and become an important part of your approach to easing stress.

This info and more available at: http://mayoclinic.com/health/exercise-and-stress/SR00036

*Smooches&Hugs*

Chill Out Challenge: Week 1 (Stress-free cooking)

Dear Chill Out Challenge Participant,

Welcome to Week 1 of the Chill Out Challenge. This week’s post will focus on ‘stress free cooking’.

Stress-free cooking is an excellent way to promote healthy eating habits. Cooking nutritious food can be easy; just plan your menus ahead and cook for the week. This way, you can have control over your portion sizes, sodium, sugar, and fat intake. Cooking healthy can be a pleasant experience and will prevent the need for last minute substituting of fast food.

Here are several tidbits for Stress-Free Cooking:

• Set up your kitchen for speed - keep your kitchen organized with items in the same place to prevent wasting time searching for items.
• Buy prepped food - ‘halfway home made’ can be just as good! Try incorporating items such as shredded cheese, chicken strips and cut veggies from the salad bar into your recipes
• Read the Recipe – Read the entire recipe BEFORE you cook! This can cut down on time (and stress!) if two parts of the meal can be cooked at the same time. This is an important and stress reducing habit to get into!
• Use your grill any time of year! - grilling doesn’t have to be used only during summer season. Plus, it is helpful in lowering fat intake and doesn’t require messy clean up!

And some quick tips for reducing clean up:

• Take a few minutes to chop extra nuts, breadcrumbs, or vegetables, and freeze them in small amounts for future use.
• Measure dry ingredients before wet ones so you can reuse measuring cups.
• Seal crackers or cookies in a heavy-duty, zip-top plastic bag, and crush them with a rolling pin if crumbs are needed for coatings or crusts.
• Marinate food in a heavy-duty, zip-top plastic bag; then throw away the bag when you’re finished.

This info and more available at: www.allfavoriterecipe.com/RecipeDetailHelpfulTips.aspx

*Smooches&Hugs*

Healthy Stuff: Chill Out Challenge!

Welcome to the Chill Out Challenge!

Life is stressful and stress can come at you in all di­fferent forms. It is important to identify your stressors and take actions to minimize their e­ffect on you. Uncontrolled stress can lead to type 2 diabetes, anxiety, high blood pressure, asthma and other conditions. By practicing a few healthy behaviors, you will help slow and reverse the impact of stress on your body and life. ­

2009 has been pretty busy for most of us. With the holidays approaching, the "Chill Out Challenge" was right on time.

HealthWaves promotes healthy lifestyle within the Corporate world. Check out the site for details on health screenings, events, clinics & other programs.

I think this is a great opportunity to gather your loved ones 'round & encourage each other to live a healthier, happier lifestyle. You can award prizes for highest points & most progress. When you're healthy, everybody wins!

Feel free to keep us posted on your progress & I'll do the same.

Good luck!

*Smooches&Hugs*

SparkPeople: 31 Days to Healthier Kids

(Along with National Breast Cancer Awareness month...) October is also Family Health Month-- a time to take a look at the health and lifestyle habits of everyone in your household. Use these 31daily tips to help your kids develop healthy nutrition and fitness habits for years to come!

Check out SparkPeople for more FREE information for the health & well-being of your family!

*Smooches&Hugs*

Allergies Suck! series: What Are "Allergies"?

Although DC is FINALLY rid of the cold weather (I think), this is a pretty bad time of year for alot of folks. Mother Nature has been playing many tricks on us these past few weeks... Everything seems to be in FULL bloom, all at once. 1 minute, my car is BLUE. The next, its dusty green. You can just SMELL the pollen. Icky poo, gross!

I was born with Asthma, so I'm use to that. However, the whole "Allergies" thing came into my life, just a few years ago. That's a WHOLE 'NOTHA monster in & of itself. Really, anything that bothers your upper respitory functions is a pain... Plus, you can't be cute with a "Rudolph" nose, in the middle of spring. LOL

Allergies suck! :-(

With that being said. Here's the 1st installment of this month's Allergies SUCK! info blog:

WHAT ARE ALLERGIES?
Allergies reflect an overreaction of the immune system to substances that usually cause no reaction in most individuals. These substances can trigger sneezing, wheezing, coughing and itching. Allergies are not only bothersome, but many have been linked to a variety of common and serious chronic respiratory illnesses (such as sinusitis and asthma).

With proper management and patient education, allergic diseases can be controlled, and people with allergies can lead normal and productive lives.

RHINITIS AND SINUSITIS
Almost everyone knows what it feels like to have a runny, stuffed-up nose at times. Often these symptoms are accompanied by a headache in the area around the eyes, nose and temples. People with allergies are especially prone to these symptoms. They are signs of rhinitis and sinusitis, two very common medical problems. It is estimated that up to 40 million American adults and children have one or both of these conditions.

Although not life-threatening, rhinitis and sinusitis can make you miserable. At their worst, they can keep you from functioning normally, and may lead to life-threatening complications. Fortunately, there are things you can do to prevent these problems. And effective treatments exist when these symptoms do arise. If you have allergies, you are more likely to develop rhinitis or sinusitis than are persons without allergies. This makes it even more important to keep your allergies under control and to prevent rhinitis and sinusitis from occurring.

What Is Rhinitis? The word rhinitis means simply "inflammation of the nose." The nose normally produces a fluid called mucus. This fluid is normally thin and clear. It helps to keep dust, debris and allergens out of the lungs. Mucus traps particles like dust and pollen as well as bacteria and viruses.

Normally, mucus drains down the back of the throat, but you're not aware of it due to its relatively small amount and thin consistency. But when the nose becomes irritated, it may produce more mucus, which becomes thick and pale yellow.

The mucus may begin to flow from the front of the nose as well as the back. Substances in the mucus may irritate the back of the throat and cause coughing. This increased mucus draining down the throat is called postnasal drip.

What Causes Rhinitis? Rhinitis may be caused by irritants or allergens (substances that provoke an allergic response). In response to these substances, the cells of the body release histamine and other chemical mediators. These are the substances that cause the symptoms of allergic rhinitis—sneezing, runny nose, and itching, watery eyes. In many people, rhinitis is a temporary condition that clears up on its own after a few days. In others, especially those with allergies, rhinitis is a chronic problem—one that is nearly always present or that recurs often.
Rhinitis is often classified into several types:

Allergic rhinitis: Rhinitis caused by an allergic reaction may be either seasonal—occurring only at certain times of the year—or perennial—occurring year round. Seasonal allergic rhinitis is sometimes called "hay fever." It is an allergic reaction to pollen from trees and grasses. Ragweed pollen is another frequent culprit causing hay fever. This type of rhinitis occurs mainly in the spring and fall, when these pollens from trees, grasses and weeds are in the air. Perennial allergic rhinitis is caused by allergies to substances that are present year round. The chief causes of this type of rhinitis are allergies to dust mites, mold, animal dander and cockroach debris.

Nonallergic rhinitis: Sometimes perennial rhinitis is not caused by allergic triggers. It may be caused by overuse of topical nose sprays, hormonal changes, structural abnormalities of the nose (such as septal deviation), and occasionally by medications. Often, the cause of this type of rhinitis is not well understood, but it is commonly present in patients with asthma. Its symptoms are similar to those produced by allergy.

Infectious rhinitis: Perhaps the most common form of rhinitis, infectious rhinitis is also known as the common cold. It is caused by infection with a cold virus that takes up residence in the mucous membranes of the nose and sinus cavities. It can be hard to tell the difference between allergies and the common cold. There are more than a hundred strains of cold viruses. Each tends to become widespread at certain times of the year, which is why you may mistake a cold for a seasonal allergy.

How is Rhinitis Treated? Most cases of rhinitis go away once the source of irritation is gone. In the meantime, decongestants can help to relieve a stuffy nose. Be very careful, however, with the use of over-the-counter decongestant nasal sprays. Overuse of these products can actually make your stuffy nose worse. If used chronically and then stopped, after the effects of these products wear off, the tissue inside the nose and sinuses tends to become swollen. This can prompt you to use more of the medication, after which these tissues swell even more. A vicious cycle can begin if you keep using the product. As your body adjusts to the chronic medication, you need more of the medication more often to relieve the side effects. At first you may get relief, but in the long run the symptoms are worse. You then try to relieve the symptoms with more medication, which in turn worsens the side effects, and so on. All the while the underlying cause of your stuffy nose is not being treated.

Perhaps the most widely used type of medication used to control the symptoms of rhinitis are the antihistamines. These medications counteract the affects of histamine, the naturally occurring chemical that causes allergy symptoms. The chief side effect of antihistamines is drowsiness. A number of new antihistamines have been developed that do not cause drowsiness in most people. These medications are available with a doctor's prescription. Cromolyn nose spray, available over the counter, may be helpful for allergic rhinitis and causes essentially no side effects. The most effective medications for allergic rhinitis are the prescription corticosteroid nose sprays that reduce allergic inflammation, usually without causing systemic side effects.

What Is Sinusitis? Sinusitis is an infection or inflammation of the sinuses. A sinus is simply a hollow space. There are many sinuses in the body, including four pairs inside the skull. These are called the paranasal sinuses. They serve to lighten the skull and give resonance to the voice. The paranasal sinuses are lined with the same kind of tissue that lines the inside of the nose. The same things that can cause swelling in the nose—such as allergies or infection—can also affect the sinuses. When the tissue inside the sinuses becomes inflamed, mucus discharge is increased.

Over time, air trapped inside the swollen sinuses can create painful pressure inside the head. This is what is known as a "sinus headache."

What Causes Sinusitis? Most cases of sinusitis are caused by infection with a virus. If the sinuses remain blocked for a long time, though, a secondary infection may result. This secondary infection is caused by bacteria that are normally present within the respiratory tract. These bacteria multiply and cause a sinus infection when they are unable to drain out of the blocked sinuses. Frequent or persistent sinus infections may cause chronic sinus inflammation and symptoms. More than 50 percent of persons with moderate to severe asthma also have chronic sinusitis.

How is Sinusitis Treated? If a bacterial infection is present, your doctor will carefully select an appropriate antibiotic to combat it. To reduce the inflammation, your doctor will also prescribe a corticosteroid nasal spray. When the inflammation decreases, the nasal passages will be less congested. Oral decongestants may also be helpful to reduce congestion. Topical decongestant nasal sprays are used with great caution since they can cause the vicious cycle of nasal stuffiness described earlier. Additional medications may be prescribed or obtained over the counter to help relieve the pain of sinusitis. Doctors also suggest nasal lavage with warm salt water or breathing in hot steam through the nose for 10 to 15 minutes, 3 to 4 times a day to make you feel more comfortable.

How Can I Prevent Rhinitis and Sinusitis? The best course for preventing rhinitis and sinusitis is to keep your nasal passages as free and clear as possible. This is particularly important if you have allergies. If you have chronic rhinitis and tend to get repeated bouts of sinusitis, your doctor may prescribe a steroid nasal spray. Taken every day, this medication will help to keep the nasal and sinus passages from becoming inflamed. To the extent possible, avoid exposure to the things that trigger your allergies. Keep cigarette smoke out of your home and avoid it in other places as much as possible.

Most important, keep your doctor informed of your symptoms. Together you can devise a plan of action to take before a minor case of rhinitis or sinusitis turns into a bigger health problem.

Source: Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America

Hopefully, this won't ruin your outdoor events! *x-fingers* Good luck!

*Smooches&Hugs*

DC Yoga Week

Thanks for sharing: Carla

Saturday, May 2 - Saturday, May 9th

(Un)fortunately, I'll be at my "day job" & will not be able to attend this year :-(

If you go, have fun & let me know how it is...

For more information, Yoga schedule & participating studios, click here.

*Smooches&Hugs*

National Walk@Lunch Day

I saw an email about this at work & wanted to share with you guys...

Today is National Walk @ Lunch Day. For details & events, click here.

BlueCross BlueShield also offers the Walking Works program. Its a FREE site that you can use to record/set goals for yourself & track your progress. The site also include other helpful links & a discounted pedometer. I already have one. Somewhere :-/ LOL...

Anywho, I've already set a goal of walking a minimum of 30 minutes a day (whether at work, or home). The nicer the weather, the longer the walk. Once Spring has finally sprung (its been chilly lately in DC!), I'll be out & about more...

So, lace up those cute sneakers & hit the road, Jack!...

Happy trails!

*Smooches&Hugs*

Morgan's Learning Center: Future Women HIV/AIDS Leaders

ONCE AGAIN, my homegirl has made the press. Bravo, babes! *applause*

Michelle Delores Morgan, Founder, Morgan's Leaning Center

Michelle Delores Morgan is the founder of Morgan's Learning Center (MLC), which mobilizes Black American communities and provides resources to AIDS services in Prince George's County (PGC) in Maryland. MLC works with several local organizations with a direct response to PGC’s high HIV/AIDS prevalence and incidence rates. My motto is "Be educated. Be healthy. And LIVE, passionately!" Awareness creation ranges from volunteering to conduct safety meetings at Pepco Holdings, Inc., to organizing an open house in my Southeast, Washington, DC apartment building to promote prevention and education around HIV using gift bags and posters.

I also refer people to PGC HIV testing sites, drug treatment centers and food banks, and provide education and prevention contacts offered to PGC residents. I believe that everyone is unique, and everyone’s perception is different. Reaching all people exactly from where they are concerning awareness in HIV is the key to community mobilization, one community at a time.

My training experience includes the following: Black AIDS Institute Community Mobilization College Student Fellow Graduate 2008; Certified OraQuick Advance Tester, OraSure Technologies, Inc 2008; Trained HIV Names Reporting Tester, Department of Health AIDS Administration 2008; Certified African American HIV Education and Prevention Instructor, American Red Cross Authorized 2007; CPR Trained and Certified 2008. Since 2006, I have volunteered at the Reid Temple AME Church, as the Pathway to Life HIV/AIDS Ministry Secretary and with Pepco Holdings, Inc., as a Diversity Department Participant. I have been with Whitman-Walker Clinic, as a National HIV Testing Day and Food Bank Volunteer, since 2005.

Related links:

• Future Women HIV/AIDS Leaders
• National Minority AIDS Council
• Whitman-Walker Clinic
• 2009 AIDSWalk Washington
• Capital Area Food Bank

Be safe. PRETTY please.

*Smooches&Hugs*

Sponsor/Vendor Spotlight: Morgan's Learning Center

Hello all-
My dear friend & BLOG pal, "Miss. Morgan" is featured in the People Taking Action section (page 46) of the February issue of Making Change Real: The State of AIDS in Black America 2009.

Fab-booo! *snap*


For a full copy of the article, click here.

Black AIDS Institute
1833 W. Eigth Street
Los Angeles, CA 90057-4257
(213) 353-3610
info@BlackAIDS.org
www.BlackAIDS.org

*My dearest Michelle: I'm sooooo very proud of you! Your passion for this effort has been an inspiration for myself & others.

Keep up the good work & we'll see you bright & early (& awake!) on Saturday, October 3rd @ AIDSWalk 2009! :-)

*Smooches&Hugs*

9 Healthy Resolutions for 2009

Just in case your New Year's Resolutions didn't make it to see February, consider adding these to your "TO DO" list:

• Healthy Resolution 1: Control Your Portions. Studies link smaller plates and bowls with weight loss because it helps prevent overeating.
• Healthy Resolution 2: Get Active. Try to inject each day with more activity (adults should aim for 30 minutes daily – remember this can be broken up into segments!). The opportunities are endless once you've developed the right mindset.
• Healthy Resolution 3: Stash the Salt. Studies show many Americans consume close to
  twice the recommended limit of sodium, which is a teaspoon, or 6 grams daily (2,400 milligrams). Try to have less than this amount. Most sodium is consumed in the form of sodium chloride which is table salt. Other forms of sodium are also found in food, so watch out for salt AND sodium. Kosher salt and sea salt are just that — salt. Don't forget to include them in adding up your sodium intake for the day. Besides contributing to water retention, sodium can raise your blood pressure. Processed foods contain the most, so make sure to read labels. Lower sodium diets are linked to decreased risk of heart disease, but are also associated with lower hypertension and weight management.
• Healthy Resolution 4: Increase Antioxidants. Antioxidants are present in foods as
  vitamins, minerals, carotenoids, and polyphenols, among others. Many antioxidants are often identified in food by their distinctive colors—the deep red of cherries and of tomatoes; the orange of carrots; the yellow of corn, mangos, and saffron; and the blue-purple of blueberries, blackberries, and grapes. The most well-known components of food with antioxidant activities are vitamins A, C, and E; β-carotene; the mineral selenium; and more recently, the compound lycopene.
• Healthy Resolution 5: Quit Smoking. We know quitting smoking can be one of the hardest resolutions to stick. With some of the helpful resources available today, this year could just be the year you become smoke free!
• Healthy Resolution 6: Floss Your Teeth. Harmful bacteria that lives in your mouth can lead to serious problems if you neglect your oral health. During a routine exam, your dentist can spot indications of diabetes and heart disease. One simple thing you can do to head off bacteria is floss your teeth.
• Healthy Resolution 7: Wear Sunscreen… All Year! UV radiation comes from the sun, sunlamps, tanning beds, or tanning booths. A person's risk of skin cancer is related to lifetime exposure to UV radiation. Most skin cancer appears after age 50, but the sun damages the skin from an early age. UV radiation affects everyone. But people who have fair skin that freckles or burns easily are at greater risk. These people often also have red or blond hair and light-colored eyes. But even people who tan can get skin cancer. People who live in areas that get high levels of UV radiation have a higher risk of skin cancer. In the United States, areas in the south (such as Texas and Florida) get more UV radiation than areas in the north (such as Minnesota). Also, people who live in the mountains get high levels of UV radiation. UV radiation is present even in cold weather or on a cloudy day.
• Healthy Resolution 8: Strength Train. Regular strength training can help you reduce your body fat, increase your lean muscle mass and burn calories more efficiently. Building muscle also protects your joints from injury, boosts your stamina, and can help reduce the signs of chronic conditions such as arthritis, back pain, depression, diabetes, obesity and osteoporosis. And it might even help you get a better night's sleep.
• Healthy Resolution 9: Expect good things from yourself. Having healthy expectations for yourself is important to both your physical and mental health. A mean inner-critic can ruin relationships, keep you from meeting personal goals, and prevent you from being an active participant in your life. Resolve to distress and have a positive outlook in circumstances beyond your control.

Source - Adapted from Reader’s Digest, ‘9 Healthy Resolutions for 2009’; Amy Zerello; Mayo Clinic, 2008

*Smooches&Hugs*