Wattsmart energy saving tips from Rocky Mountain Power@ http://www.rockymountainpower.net/res/sem/het.html
Cooling
• Keep your thermostat at 78°F or higher if you're still comfortable. The higher you set the thermostat, the less your cooling system will operate unnecessarily.
• Keep air conditioner filters clean. They should be cleaned or replaced once a month during the season. If you can do so safely, clean the exposed grill and spines of the outside unit.
• Don't block window air conditioners. Make sure no objects are leaning on the unit or directly in the path of the air flowing in or out.
• Use a programmable thermostat. You only need your air conditioner or furnace to run when you're home. Set timers so it comes on no more than 30 minutes before you're scheduled to arrive home.
• If you are home during the day, try to reduce the use of heat-producing appliances such as the oven, range, dishwasher, washing machine and dryer.
• Don't place lamps or televisions near your air conditioning thermostat. The thermostat senses heat from these appliances, and this may cause it to run longer than necessary.
• Make sure your home has the appropriate amount of insulation in walls, attics and crawl spaces. Insulation is just as important in the summer as it is during the winter since it helps keep warm air outside.
• Seal and insulate air-conditioning ducts that run through unconditioned spaces.
• Plant deciduous trees to shade your home's walls, windows and roof in the summer.
• Install a ceiling fan to circulate air above the area where you spend most of your time. You'll feel just as cool under a ceiling fan when it's 82°F.
• Run exhaust fans when you shower or cook to vent warm, moist air.
• Have the system professionally inspected and tuned-up. Professional inspections and tune-ups of heating and central air conditioning systems can help save on operating costs and extend the equipment's life. A check-up is recommended every year for heat pumps and every five years for other systems.
Water Heating
• Water HeatingCut down on water heating costs
• Install energy-efficient showerheads and faucet aerators. They reduce the amount of water released by up to 50 percent, with almost no noticeable difference in pressure.
• Set the water heater temperature to 120°F
• Fix leaky faucets. A dripping faucet can waste 6 to 10 gallons (23-38 liters) of water per day. Repairs can be as simple and inexpensive as replacing a worn-out washer.
• Insulate hot and cold water pipes. If pipes are exposed beneath your home or in an unheated garage, insulate them with special pipe-insulating foam. This will help keep cold water pipes from freezing and hot water pipes hot.
• Take a shower instead of a bath. The average bath uses twice as much hot water as a five-minute shower.
• Turn off faucets immediately after use. Many of us tend to leave the faucet running while we wash dishes or shave. Turning on the faucet only when necessary can save thousands of gallons of water a year, not to mention the energy needed to heat it.
Laundry Quick tips for reducing usage
• Wash your clothes in cold water and use detergents specially designed for cold water loads.
• Wash and dry full loads when possible. Always use the appropriate setting for the size of the load.
• Clean the lint filter in the dryer after each load.
• Periodically inspect the dryer vent to make sure there are no blockages.
• Consider air-drying clothing on warm days on clothes lines or drying racks.
Kitchen Appliances Efficient use of refrigerators and freezers
• Keep condenser coils clean and unobstructed for maximum energy savings.
• Locate your refrigerator or freezer away from heating equipment, heater vents and direct sunlight. Provide adequate clearance above, behind and on the sides for good air circulation.
• Set the temperature of your refrigerator between 37 and 40°F, and your freezer at 0°F for top efficiency. The Food and Drug Administration also recommends these settings to prevent rapid bacterial growth.
• Clean door gaskets with warm water or a detergent that leaves no residue since a tight-sealing door gasket is critical to the efficiency of your refrigerator.
• Keep your refrigerator or freezer full, but do not overload it. Overloading causes the compressor to run longer. Place foods slightly apart on shelves, making sure they do not block the unit's interior air vents.
• Cover all liquids stored in the refrigerator. Moisture can be drawn into the air, making the unit work harder.
Lighting
• Reap considerable energy savings by changing a few habits and bulbs
• Use compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs). CFLs draw about one-quarter of the energy of an incandescent bulb (see table below) and last 7 to 10 times longer. Because CFLs contain tiny amounts of mercury, proper disposal is important.
• Keep lights off in unoccupied rooms and get in the habit of turning off the light every time you leave a room for more than a few minutes.
• Use low-wattage bulbs when possible. Bright lights are often not needed in hallways or closets.
• Clean light bulbs and fixtures since dirt can reduce light output by as much as 10 percent.
• Remove unnecessary bulbs in track and recessed lighting. Positioned correctly, three bulbs can sometimes provide nearly the same light as four.
• Install dimmers in areas where they make sense, such as the dining room and bedroom. The amount you dim equals your energy saved. For example, lights dimmed 15 percent reduces energy consumption up to 15 percent.
• When working at a desk or workbench, use task lighting. Other lights in the room could be turned off or dimmed.
TV & Entertainment Quick tips for reducing usage
• Turn off your television when not in use.
• Many appliances continue to draw power when they are switched off but still plugged in. In the average home, 75% of the electricity used to power home electronics is consumed while the products are turned off.
• Unplug the appliance or use the switch on a power strip to prevent DVD players, VCRs, and televisions from drawing power when not in use.
While Away on Vacation
• Even when you're away from home or on vacation, your home still uses electricity. If you are leaving for more than a few days, here are some things you can do to keep your energy use down:
• During the winter, lower your thermostat to between 50°F and 60°F. If you turn it lower than 50°F you run the risk of frozen pipes in cold weather.
• In summer, turn off your air conditioning or set the thermostat to a high temperature.
• Turn off your water heater if you'll be away for more than three days. Turn an electric water heater off at the circuit breaker panel, or set a gas heater to "pilot" or "low." You'll need a few hours to heat the tank when you return.
• Unplug your waterbed heater, or lower the thermostat to 70°F when away from home for seven days or more.
• Unplug electrical equipment such as TVs, DVD players and computers because they can draw power even when not in use. When plugged in, these appliances should be hooked up to surge protectors.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
How to Deal with an Emergency
Real Simple Magazine, on Fri Jul 16, 2010 8:24am PDT
How to Prepare for an Emergency By Dimity McDowell Davis
Gas Leak
Care for your pipes. If you’re excavating outdoors, don’t dig until you have your utility company flag where the lines are. Don’t use basement pipes to hang heavy items, and make sure the gas connections to your stovetop range and other gas appliances aren’t fraying or cracked. By law, “gas pipes leading into a concealed area should be labeled gas, but this isn’t always the case,” says Bob Kordulak, a code secretary for the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors National Association. For extra peace of mind, you could install a natural-gas detector, which detects methane and propane gas leaks (ask your local utility company for recommendations). Still, your nose is your best system of detection.
Educate the family. Make sure every family member knows the basic rule of gas safety: that anytime they smell an unmistakable rotten-egg odor or hear a hissing sound and can’t immediately identify the source, they should get out of the house.
Outage
Don't overload the circuit. Limit the number of appliances plugged into any outlet. When you lose power in one part of the house, it’s probably because your food processor, toaster, and microwave are sharing the same outlet.
Back up files regularly. And consider buying extra batteries and a DC-to-AC auto adapter if you use a laptop computer. This will allow most laptops (12 volts or less) to be operated from the cigarette lighter of a vehicle.
Stash flashlights. Store one in each bedroom. And avoid lighting candles, if possible, as they could cause a fire.
Alert your power company about special needs. If somebody in your home relies on electrical medical equipment, call your power company now to let it know. Your home will be a priority when electricity is being restored.
Frozen Pipes
Remove garden hoses from their spigots. Cut off the water supply to outdoor faucets before the frosty weather arrives. Leave the faucets turned on so the pipes are drained before winter.
Insulate vulnerable pipes. Using heat tape or heat cable (sold in hardware stores), wrap uninsulated water supply lines anywhere heat doesn’t reach, such as the garage, crawl spaces, or under cabinets.
Allow water to trickle through pipes. Even during freezing spells, regularly let a little water―cold or hot―to run through the pipes. Set the thermostat at 65 degrees, and open the cabinets under sinks to expose them to as much heat as possible. If you’re leaving for an extended period during the winter, turn off the main water supply, set the thermostat at no lower than 55 degrees, and keep the cabinets open.
Smoke Alarms
Install many. Mount one on every level of the house and outside all sleep areas.
Check the batteries regularly.
Test them once a month and replace them at least once a year, unless you have units powered by 10-year lithium batteries (these still require monthly checking). Some smoke alarms are connected to the household electrical system and may or may not have a battery backup. It’s important to test these monthly, too. Regardless of the power source, buy new smoke alarms every 10 years.
Keep alarms clean. Dust and debris can cause malfunctions, so vacuum or dust alarms regularly.
Never disable an alarm. Newer detectors have hush buttons, so you won’t have to compromise the alarm’s power source just because you charred your toast.
Fire Extinguishers
Choose multipurpose extinguishers. These are labeled as type “ABC,” meaning they are equipped to fight fires caused by ordinary combustibles, flammable liquids, and electrical equipment. Make sure you have one in the kitchen, the garage, the basement, and wherever your furnace and hot-water heater are located.
Inspect them regularly. If the gauge doesn’t read full (100 percent), have the extinguisher serviced if it’s rechargeable and buy a new one if it’s not.
Replace old extinguishers. “The dry chemicals in them degrade and become less effective over time,” Chris Reynolds, a fire chief and a professor of public-sector and critical-infrastructure studies at the American Military University, in Tampa, says.
Know how to use them. Once you’ve squeezed the lever, sweep the nozzle from side to side at the base of the flames until the fire appears to be out.
Escape Routes
Draw a map of your house. Plan at least two escape routes out of every room.“Windows and indoor and outdoor doorways are all possibilities,” says Reynolds. Discuss these routes with every family member.
Use flame-resistant safety escape ladders. Place them, preassembled, near a window on each floor of your home. Try the Kidde Escape ladder ($51, safetyproductsunlimited.com). A 13-foot ladder should be long enough for a two-story home. If bedrooms are on opposite ends of a floor, store a ladder in each room.
Pick an outdoor meeting place. Make sure it's a safe distance from your house. A neighbor’s mailbox or the nearest stop sign are good options.
Make sure your address is visible. Emergency-aid vehicles need to be able to locate your home as fast as possible.
Know Your Region
Get informed. Contact the local chapter of the American Red Cross or Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) (to find one near you, go to fema.gov). Ask for information about the types of disasters you may encounter, as well as their timing and severity, especially if you're new to an area and unaware of potential risks.
Ask questions. Find out about community-response plans, potential sites for emergency shelters, and warning procedures from the Red Cross or FEMA. "Some level of chaos breaks out no matter how small a disaster," says psychiatrist Joseph Napoli, coauthor of Resiliency in the Face of Disaster and Terrorism: 10 Things to Do to Survive (Personhood Press, $15, amazon.com). "The more you know beforehand, the less frantic you'll feel."
Make an Emergency Kit
Keep your survival essentials handy. Store the goods in a waterproof container and place it in an easily accessible location. “Your kit should allow you to be self-sufficient for at least three days,” says Keith Robertory, an emergency-preparedness expert with the Red Cross. (For a list of items for a comprehensive emergency kit, see Emergency-Supply Checklist; for a pared-down version for the car, the office, or on-the-go, see Grab-and-Go Emergency Kit.)
Do a disaster dry run. One weekend night, unplug the phone, turn off the lights, don’t use any faucets or the stove, and see how well packed you are. “You’ll discover little things, like you packed C batteries when you needed D’s for the flashlight, or you could have used a deck of cards for entertainment,” says Robertory.
Have a Plan
Choose two meeting spots. Sure, in the best case of a worst-case scenario, your family will be together when an earthquake rumbles beneath your town. But if you’re scattered, you’ll need a meeting place. Pick two spots where your family can congregate if conditions allow: one close to your house, in case of something like a fire, and one outside your immediate neighborhood, in case nearby streets are closed.
Choose a contact person. This person should be a family member or so friend who lives out of state. After a disaster, it may be easier to call long distance than locally, notes Robertory. As soon as it’s possible, each member of your family should call that person to let his or her location be known.
The top foods you should keep in case of an emergency By: Vanessa DiMaggio
Natural disasters--such as a flood, hurricane, or blizzard--often come without warning. Stocking non-perishable food items ahead of time (and choosing wisely what you include) will help you weather the storm with less stress.
Fueling your body during an emergency is very different from your everyday diet. Because you’ll probably expend more energy than you normally would, you should eat high-energy, high-protein foods. And because you have a limited supply, the higher-quality foods you eat--and the less of them--the better. “In a disaster or an emergency you want those calories,” says Barry Swanson, a food scientist at Washington State University . “You want some nutrients and some fiber—something to keep your diet normal.”
But that doesn’t mean you have to eat like a pauper. “In an emergency, generally you tend to think of meeting more basic needs than preferences and flavors,” says Elizabeth Andress, professor and food safety specialist at the University of Georgia . “But if you plan right, you can have a great variety of foods and nutrients.” Here, Andress and Swanson weigh in on what items you should include.
What to Always Keep in Your Pantry
These items have lengthy expiration dates, so you can stash them away for long periods of time. Make a list of everything in your stockpile and check expiration dates every 6 to 12 months to keep things fresh. And don’t forget to have a can opener on hand at all times--all that food won’t be of any use if you can’t open it.
• Peanut butter A great source of energy, peanut butter is chock-full of healthful fats and protein. Unless the jar indicates otherwise, you don’t have to refrigerate after opening.
• Whole-wheat crackers Crackers are a good replacement for bread and make a fine substitute in sandwiches. Due to their higher fat content, whole-wheat or whole-grain crackers have a shorter shelf life than their plain counterparts (check the box for expiration dates), but the extra fiber pays off when you’re particularly hungry. Consider vacuum-packing your crackers to prolong their freshness.
• Nuts and trail mixes Stock up on these high-energy foods—they’re convenient for snacking and healthful. Look for vacuum-packed containers, which prevent the nuts from oxidizing and losing their freshness.
• Cereal Choose multigrain cereals that are individually packaged so they don’t become stale after opening.
• Granola bars and power bars Healthy and filling, these portable snacks usually stay fresh for at least six months. Plus, they’re an excellent source of carbohydrates. “You can get more energy from carbohydrates without [eating] tons of food,” Andress says.
• Dried fruits, such as apricots and raisins In the absence of fresh fruit, these healthy snacks offer potassium and dietary fiber. “Dried fruits provide you with a significant amount of nutrients and calories,” Swanson says.
• Canned tuna, salmon, chicken, or turkey Generally lasting at least two years in the pantry, canned meats provide essential protein. Vacuum-packed pouches have a shorter shelf life but will last at least six months, says Diane Van, manager of the USDA meat and poultry hotline.
• Canned vegetables, such as green beans, carrots, and peas When the real deal isn’t an option, canned varieties can provide you with essential nutrients.
• Canned soups and chili Soups and chili can be eaten straight out of the can and provide a variety of nutrients. Look for low-sodium options.
• Bottled water Try to stock at least a three-day supply--you need at least one gallon per person per day. “A normally active person should drink at least a half gallon of water each day,” Andress says. “The other half gallon is for adding to food and washing.”
• Sports drinks, such as Gatorade or Powerade The electrolytes and carbohydrates in these drinks will help you rehydrate and replenish fluid when water is scarce.
• Powdered milk Almost all dairy products require refrigeration, so stock this substitute for an excellent source of calcium and vitamin D when fresh milk isn’t an option.
• Sugar, salt, and pepper If you have access to a propane or charcoal stove, you may be doing some cooking. A basic supply of seasonings and sweeteners will improve the flavor of your food, both fresh and packaged.
• Multivitamins Supplements will help replace the nutrients you would have consumed on a normal diet.
What to Buy Right Before an Emergency
If you’ve been given ample warning that a storm is coming, there’s still time to run to the market and pick up fresh produce and other items that have shorter shelf lives. Most of these foods will last at least a week after they’ve been purchased and will give you a fresh alternative to all that packaged food. Make sure to swing by your local farmers’ market if it’s open; because the produce there is fresher than what you’ll find at your typical supermarket, you’ll add a few days to the lifespan of your fruits and vegetables.
• Apples Apples last up to three months when stored in a cool, dry area away from more perishable fruits (like bananas), which could cause them to ripen more quickly.
• Citrus fruits, such as oranges and grapefruits Because of their high acid content and sturdy skins, citrus fruits can last for up to two weeks without refrigeration, particularly if you buy them when they’re not fully ripe. Oranges and grapefruits contain lots of vitamin C and will keep you hydrated.
• Avocadoes If you buy an unripe, firm avocado, it will last outside the refrigerator for at least a week.
• Tomatoes If you buy them unripe, tomatoes will last several days at room temperature.
• Potatoes, sweet potatoes, and yams If you have access to a working stove, these root vegetables are good keepers and make tasty side dishes. Stored in a cool, dark area, potatoes will last about a month.
• Cucumbers and summer squash These vegetables will last a few days outside of refrigeration and can be eaten raw.
• Winter squash While most are inedible uncooked, winter squashes, such as acorn squash, will keep for a few months. If you’ll be able to cook during the emergency, stockpile a bunch.
• Hard, packaged sausages, such as sopressata and pepperoni You can’t eat canned tuna and chicken forever. Try stocking up on a few packages of dry-cured salamis like sopressata, a southern Italian specialty available at most grocery stores. Unopened, they will keep for up to six weeks in the pantry, Van says.
How to Prepare for an Emergency By Dimity McDowell Davis
Gas Leak
Care for your pipes. If you’re excavating outdoors, don’t dig until you have your utility company flag where the lines are. Don’t use basement pipes to hang heavy items, and make sure the gas connections to your stovetop range and other gas appliances aren’t fraying or cracked. By law, “gas pipes leading into a concealed area should be labeled gas, but this isn’t always the case,” says Bob Kordulak, a code secretary for the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors National Association. For extra peace of mind, you could install a natural-gas detector, which detects methane and propane gas leaks (ask your local utility company for recommendations). Still, your nose is your best system of detection.
Educate the family. Make sure every family member knows the basic rule of gas safety: that anytime they smell an unmistakable rotten-egg odor or hear a hissing sound and can’t immediately identify the source, they should get out of the house.
Outage
Don't overload the circuit. Limit the number of appliances plugged into any outlet. When you lose power in one part of the house, it’s probably because your food processor, toaster, and microwave are sharing the same outlet.
Back up files regularly. And consider buying extra batteries and a DC-to-AC auto adapter if you use a laptop computer. This will allow most laptops (12 volts or less) to be operated from the cigarette lighter of a vehicle.
Stash flashlights. Store one in each bedroom. And avoid lighting candles, if possible, as they could cause a fire.
Alert your power company about special needs. If somebody in your home relies on electrical medical equipment, call your power company now to let it know. Your home will be a priority when electricity is being restored.
Frozen Pipes
Remove garden hoses from their spigots. Cut off the water supply to outdoor faucets before the frosty weather arrives. Leave the faucets turned on so the pipes are drained before winter.
Insulate vulnerable pipes. Using heat tape or heat cable (sold in hardware stores), wrap uninsulated water supply lines anywhere heat doesn’t reach, such as the garage, crawl spaces, or under cabinets.
Allow water to trickle through pipes. Even during freezing spells, regularly let a little water―cold or hot―to run through the pipes. Set the thermostat at 65 degrees, and open the cabinets under sinks to expose them to as much heat as possible. If you’re leaving for an extended period during the winter, turn off the main water supply, set the thermostat at no lower than 55 degrees, and keep the cabinets open.
Smoke Alarms
Install many. Mount one on every level of the house and outside all sleep areas.
Check the batteries regularly.
Test them once a month and replace them at least once a year, unless you have units powered by 10-year lithium batteries (these still require monthly checking). Some smoke alarms are connected to the household electrical system and may or may not have a battery backup. It’s important to test these monthly, too. Regardless of the power source, buy new smoke alarms every 10 years.
Keep alarms clean. Dust and debris can cause malfunctions, so vacuum or dust alarms regularly.
Never disable an alarm. Newer detectors have hush buttons, so you won’t have to compromise the alarm’s power source just because you charred your toast.
Fire Extinguishers
Choose multipurpose extinguishers. These are labeled as type “ABC,” meaning they are equipped to fight fires caused by ordinary combustibles, flammable liquids, and electrical equipment. Make sure you have one in the kitchen, the garage, the basement, and wherever your furnace and hot-water heater are located.
Inspect them regularly. If the gauge doesn’t read full (100 percent), have the extinguisher serviced if it’s rechargeable and buy a new one if it’s not.
Replace old extinguishers. “The dry chemicals in them degrade and become less effective over time,” Chris Reynolds, a fire chief and a professor of public-sector and critical-infrastructure studies at the American Military University, in Tampa, says.
Know how to use them. Once you’ve squeezed the lever, sweep the nozzle from side to side at the base of the flames until the fire appears to be out.
Escape Routes
Draw a map of your house. Plan at least two escape routes out of every room.“Windows and indoor and outdoor doorways are all possibilities,” says Reynolds. Discuss these routes with every family member.
Use flame-resistant safety escape ladders. Place them, preassembled, near a window on each floor of your home. Try the Kidde Escape ladder ($51, safetyproductsunlimited.com). A 13-foot ladder should be long enough for a two-story home. If bedrooms are on opposite ends of a floor, store a ladder in each room.
Pick an outdoor meeting place. Make sure it's a safe distance from your house. A neighbor’s mailbox or the nearest stop sign are good options.
Make sure your address is visible. Emergency-aid vehicles need to be able to locate your home as fast as possible.
Know Your Region
Get informed. Contact the local chapter of the American Red Cross or Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) (to find one near you, go to fema.gov). Ask for information about the types of disasters you may encounter, as well as their timing and severity, especially if you're new to an area and unaware of potential risks.
Ask questions. Find out about community-response plans, potential sites for emergency shelters, and warning procedures from the Red Cross or FEMA. "Some level of chaos breaks out no matter how small a disaster," says psychiatrist Joseph Napoli, coauthor of Resiliency in the Face of Disaster and Terrorism: 10 Things to Do to Survive (Personhood Press, $15, amazon.com). "The more you know beforehand, the less frantic you'll feel."
Make an Emergency Kit
Keep your survival essentials handy. Store the goods in a waterproof container and place it in an easily accessible location. “Your kit should allow you to be self-sufficient for at least three days,” says Keith Robertory, an emergency-preparedness expert with the Red Cross. (For a list of items for a comprehensive emergency kit, see Emergency-Supply Checklist; for a pared-down version for the car, the office, or on-the-go, see Grab-and-Go Emergency Kit.)
Do a disaster dry run. One weekend night, unplug the phone, turn off the lights, don’t use any faucets or the stove, and see how well packed you are. “You’ll discover little things, like you packed C batteries when you needed D’s for the flashlight, or you could have used a deck of cards for entertainment,” says Robertory.
Have a Plan
Choose two meeting spots. Sure, in the best case of a worst-case scenario, your family will be together when an earthquake rumbles beneath your town. But if you’re scattered, you’ll need a meeting place. Pick two spots where your family can congregate if conditions allow: one close to your house, in case of something like a fire, and one outside your immediate neighborhood, in case nearby streets are closed.
Choose a contact person. This person should be a family member or so friend who lives out of state. After a disaster, it may be easier to call long distance than locally, notes Robertory. As soon as it’s possible, each member of your family should call that person to let his or her location be known.
The top foods you should keep in case of an emergency By: Vanessa DiMaggio
Natural disasters--such as a flood, hurricane, or blizzard--often come without warning. Stocking non-perishable food items ahead of time (and choosing wisely what you include) will help you weather the storm with less stress.
Fueling your body during an emergency is very different from your everyday diet. Because you’ll probably expend more energy than you normally would, you should eat high-energy, high-protein foods. And because you have a limited supply, the higher-quality foods you eat--and the less of them--the better. “In a disaster or an emergency you want those calories,” says Barry Swanson, a food scientist at Washington State University . “You want some nutrients and some fiber—something to keep your diet normal.”
But that doesn’t mean you have to eat like a pauper. “In an emergency, generally you tend to think of meeting more basic needs than preferences and flavors,” says Elizabeth Andress, professor and food safety specialist at the University of Georgia . “But if you plan right, you can have a great variety of foods and nutrients.” Here, Andress and Swanson weigh in on what items you should include.
What to Always Keep in Your Pantry
These items have lengthy expiration dates, so you can stash them away for long periods of time. Make a list of everything in your stockpile and check expiration dates every 6 to 12 months to keep things fresh. And don’t forget to have a can opener on hand at all times--all that food won’t be of any use if you can’t open it.
• Peanut butter A great source of energy, peanut butter is chock-full of healthful fats and protein. Unless the jar indicates otherwise, you don’t have to refrigerate after opening.
• Whole-wheat crackers Crackers are a good replacement for bread and make a fine substitute in sandwiches. Due to their higher fat content, whole-wheat or whole-grain crackers have a shorter shelf life than their plain counterparts (check the box for expiration dates), but the extra fiber pays off when you’re particularly hungry. Consider vacuum-packing your crackers to prolong their freshness.
• Nuts and trail mixes Stock up on these high-energy foods—they’re convenient for snacking and healthful. Look for vacuum-packed containers, which prevent the nuts from oxidizing and losing their freshness.
• Cereal Choose multigrain cereals that are individually packaged so they don’t become stale after opening.
• Granola bars and power bars Healthy and filling, these portable snacks usually stay fresh for at least six months. Plus, they’re an excellent source of carbohydrates. “You can get more energy from carbohydrates without [eating] tons of food,” Andress says.
• Dried fruits, such as apricots and raisins In the absence of fresh fruit, these healthy snacks offer potassium and dietary fiber. “Dried fruits provide you with a significant amount of nutrients and calories,” Swanson says.
• Canned tuna, salmon, chicken, or turkey Generally lasting at least two years in the pantry, canned meats provide essential protein. Vacuum-packed pouches have a shorter shelf life but will last at least six months, says Diane Van, manager of the USDA meat and poultry hotline.
• Canned vegetables, such as green beans, carrots, and peas When the real deal isn’t an option, canned varieties can provide you with essential nutrients.
• Canned soups and chili Soups and chili can be eaten straight out of the can and provide a variety of nutrients. Look for low-sodium options.
• Bottled water Try to stock at least a three-day supply--you need at least one gallon per person per day. “A normally active person should drink at least a half gallon of water each day,” Andress says. “The other half gallon is for adding to food and washing.”
• Sports drinks, such as Gatorade or Powerade The electrolytes and carbohydrates in these drinks will help you rehydrate and replenish fluid when water is scarce.
• Powdered milk Almost all dairy products require refrigeration, so stock this substitute for an excellent source of calcium and vitamin D when fresh milk isn’t an option.
• Sugar, salt, and pepper If you have access to a propane or charcoal stove, you may be doing some cooking. A basic supply of seasonings and sweeteners will improve the flavor of your food, both fresh and packaged.
• Multivitamins Supplements will help replace the nutrients you would have consumed on a normal diet.
What to Buy Right Before an Emergency
If you’ve been given ample warning that a storm is coming, there’s still time to run to the market and pick up fresh produce and other items that have shorter shelf lives. Most of these foods will last at least a week after they’ve been purchased and will give you a fresh alternative to all that packaged food. Make sure to swing by your local farmers’ market if it’s open; because the produce there is fresher than what you’ll find at your typical supermarket, you’ll add a few days to the lifespan of your fruits and vegetables.
• Apples Apples last up to three months when stored in a cool, dry area away from more perishable fruits (like bananas), which could cause them to ripen more quickly.
• Citrus fruits, such as oranges and grapefruits Because of their high acid content and sturdy skins, citrus fruits can last for up to two weeks without refrigeration, particularly if you buy them when they’re not fully ripe. Oranges and grapefruits contain lots of vitamin C and will keep you hydrated.
• Avocadoes If you buy an unripe, firm avocado, it will last outside the refrigerator for at least a week.
• Tomatoes If you buy them unripe, tomatoes will last several days at room temperature.
• Potatoes, sweet potatoes, and yams If you have access to a working stove, these root vegetables are good keepers and make tasty side dishes. Stored in a cool, dark area, potatoes will last about a month.
• Cucumbers and summer squash These vegetables will last a few days outside of refrigeration and can be eaten raw.
• Winter squash While most are inedible uncooked, winter squashes, such as acorn squash, will keep for a few months. If you’ll be able to cook during the emergency, stockpile a bunch.
• Hard, packaged sausages, such as sopressata and pepperoni You can’t eat canned tuna and chicken forever. Try stocking up on a few packages of dry-cured salamis like sopressata, a southern Italian specialty available at most grocery stores. Unopened, they will keep for up to six weeks in the pantry, Van says.
Lyme Disease Information
Lyme Disease information from http://utahlyme.org/
Common misdiagnoses for Lyme disease include...
•Fibromyalgia
•Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
•MS
•Lupus
•Parkinson's disease
•Alzheimer's disease
•Psychiatric illness
•ADD
•Autism
Lyme Disease in Utah?
Yes, you can catch Lyme Disease in Utah. Many believe the disease is rare. I believe it is only the diagnosis that is rare.
The common belief that you can't get Lyme disease in Utah is perpetuated by insufficient surveillance, inadequate reporting, poor diagnostic tools, an uninformed public, and an understandably reluctant and fearful medical community which lacks the knowledge necessary to diagnose and treat Lyme disease.
Given the lack of sufficient knowledge and a host of other problems surrounding the diagnosis and treatment of Lyme disease, it is obvious there is an urgent need for more research, better surveillance and reporting systems, raised public awareness, and increased physician education.
In the United States...
Lyme disease is the fastest growing infectious disease in the United States. The disease is caused by a spirochete that is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected tick.
According to the Center for Disease Control, only an estimated one in ten cases of diagnosed Lyme disease meet their surveillance criteria, leaving ninety percent of cases unreported. Using the CDC data, this means that nearly 250,000 new cases of Lyme disease were diagnosed in this country in the past year and that the rate of infection is increasing.
Lyme disease or a Lyme-like illness has been reported in every state in this country.
In Utah...
Many people are unaware that Utah is an endemic area as determined by the CDC. In 1996, the CDC defined areas of predicted Lyme disease transmission by high, moderate, low, and minimal/no risk. At that time the risk was indicated to be low but present in this state. The risk determination was made by catching multiple ticks in each life cycle that were infected with the Lyme disease spirochete. It is hard to imagine that the degree of risk has not increased since then.
In Utah, the Ixodes pacificus tick carries the disease -– a tiny tick that ranges in size from a poppy seed to a sesame seed. The ticks feed on and are transported by field mice, deer, and other warm-blooded animals.
The myth...
As long as the disease is not diagnosed, the myth will persist: If you can't get Lyme disease in Utah, you must not have Lyme disease.
This thinking results in only rare consideration of Lyme disease as a diagnosis. When undiagnosed and unreported, both the public and physicians alike are allowed to continue to believe that you can't get Lyme disease in Utah; government officials can continue to believe that there is no need to educate the public about the risks of the disease and prevention measures or to educate the medical community about the proper diagnosis and treatment of the disease.
The nightmare...
If treated early and aggressively, Lyme disease is curable. When left untreated or inadequately treated, Lyme disease can progress into a devastating and disabling multi-systemic illness often marked by severe neurological problems and debilitating pain. In fact, according to the National Institutes of Health, “patients with persistent Lyme disease suffer physical disability equivalent to that of multiple sclerosis, severe pain equivalent to post-operative pain, and profound fatigue similar to congestive heart failure”. It is estimated that 10-15 percent of Lyme disease cases will develop into persistent late-stage neurological disease.
Lyme disease is also at the center of a political battlefield. Prominent physicians who treat the disease aggressively have been targets of attack by insurance companies and state medical boards. These are the same physicians who are working with Lyme patients every day and making well those who had previously been without hope.
It's time for change...
For me there is no question whether people can become infected with Lyme disease from ticks in Utah. I know what is true because I have lived it. It is my hope that I can effect some change by raising awareness and disseminating information about Lyme disease and its diagnosis and treatment. It is my hope that the information here can make a difference to someone else so that they do not have to learn the truth by living it.
Utah Lyme Disease Support Group
The Utah Lyme Disease Support Group meetings are held on the first Saturdary of each month from 3-5 p.m. at the Alta View Hospital, Classroom A. Some meetings have guest speakers. The Alta View Hospital is located at 9660 S 1300 E, Sandy, UT 84094. We hope to see you there!
Common misdiagnoses for Lyme disease include...
•Fibromyalgia
•Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
•MS
•Lupus
•Parkinson's disease
•Alzheimer's disease
•Psychiatric illness
•ADD
•Autism
Lyme Disease in Utah?
Yes, you can catch Lyme Disease in Utah. Many believe the disease is rare. I believe it is only the diagnosis that is rare.
The common belief that you can't get Lyme disease in Utah is perpetuated by insufficient surveillance, inadequate reporting, poor diagnostic tools, an uninformed public, and an understandably reluctant and fearful medical community which lacks the knowledge necessary to diagnose and treat Lyme disease.
Given the lack of sufficient knowledge and a host of other problems surrounding the diagnosis and treatment of Lyme disease, it is obvious there is an urgent need for more research, better surveillance and reporting systems, raised public awareness, and increased physician education.
In the United States...
Lyme disease is the fastest growing infectious disease in the United States. The disease is caused by a spirochete that is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected tick.
According to the Center for Disease Control, only an estimated one in ten cases of diagnosed Lyme disease meet their surveillance criteria, leaving ninety percent of cases unreported. Using the CDC data, this means that nearly 250,000 new cases of Lyme disease were diagnosed in this country in the past year and that the rate of infection is increasing.
Lyme disease or a Lyme-like illness has been reported in every state in this country.
In Utah...
Many people are unaware that Utah is an endemic area as determined by the CDC. In 1996, the CDC defined areas of predicted Lyme disease transmission by high, moderate, low, and minimal/no risk. At that time the risk was indicated to be low but present in this state. The risk determination was made by catching multiple ticks in each life cycle that were infected with the Lyme disease spirochete. It is hard to imagine that the degree of risk has not increased since then.
In Utah, the Ixodes pacificus tick carries the disease -– a tiny tick that ranges in size from a poppy seed to a sesame seed. The ticks feed on and are transported by field mice, deer, and other warm-blooded animals.
The myth...
As long as the disease is not diagnosed, the myth will persist: If you can't get Lyme disease in Utah, you must not have Lyme disease.
This thinking results in only rare consideration of Lyme disease as a diagnosis. When undiagnosed and unreported, both the public and physicians alike are allowed to continue to believe that you can't get Lyme disease in Utah; government officials can continue to believe that there is no need to educate the public about the risks of the disease and prevention measures or to educate the medical community about the proper diagnosis and treatment of the disease.
The nightmare...
If treated early and aggressively, Lyme disease is curable. When left untreated or inadequately treated, Lyme disease can progress into a devastating and disabling multi-systemic illness often marked by severe neurological problems and debilitating pain. In fact, according to the National Institutes of Health, “patients with persistent Lyme disease suffer physical disability equivalent to that of multiple sclerosis, severe pain equivalent to post-operative pain, and profound fatigue similar to congestive heart failure”. It is estimated that 10-15 percent of Lyme disease cases will develop into persistent late-stage neurological disease.
Lyme disease is also at the center of a political battlefield. Prominent physicians who treat the disease aggressively have been targets of attack by insurance companies and state medical boards. These are the same physicians who are working with Lyme patients every day and making well those who had previously been without hope.
It's time for change...
For me there is no question whether people can become infected with Lyme disease from ticks in Utah. I know what is true because I have lived it. It is my hope that I can effect some change by raising awareness and disseminating information about Lyme disease and its diagnosis and treatment. It is my hope that the information here can make a difference to someone else so that they do not have to learn the truth by living it.
Utah Lyme Disease Support Group
The Utah Lyme Disease Support Group meetings are held on the first Saturdary of each month from 3-5 p.m. at the Alta View Hospital, Classroom A. Some meetings have guest speakers. The Alta View Hospital is located at 9660 S 1300 E, Sandy, UT 84094. We hope to see you there!
Request for Contributions
I thought it might be easier, if you have any contributions to the newsletter, to fill out one of these slips and hand it to me or one of members of the Relief Society Presidency, or your visiting teacher.
My own story
Name:
Email Address:
Phone #:
Address:
I haven’t given my story before.
I have given my story, but there are some more interesting things that I could tell
I have included my story with this.
I would like to give it to you at a later time.
I would like to email it to you @ Patricia.A.Wilson.84106@gmail.com
My Ancestor’s story
Name:
Email Address:
Phone #:
Address:
Ancestor’s Name Relationship:
I have included my ancestor’s story with this.
I would like to give it to you at a later time.
I would like to email it to you @ Patricia.A.Wilson.84106@gmail.com
My Recipe
Name:
Email Address:
Phone #:
Address:
Recipe Name:
Source (This can be something that you learned/created on your own, it was passed down from a family member (who), or that you read from a magazine (give magazine name and date/volume), etc.)
I have included my recipe with this.
I would like to give it to you at a later time.
I would like to email it to you @ Patricia.A.Wilson.84106@gmail.com
An Idea/tip I would like to share (fun family activities, cleaning/organizing, genealogy, etc).
Name:
Email Address:
Phone #:
Address:
Idea type :
Source (This can be something that you learned/created on your own, it was passed down from a family member (who), or that you read from a magazine (give magazine name and date/volume), etc.)
I have included my idea/tip with this.
I would like to give it to you at a later time.
I would like to email it to you @ Patricia.A.Wilson.84106@gmail.com
My own story
Name:
Email Address:
Phone #:
Address:
I haven’t given my story before.
I have given my story, but there are some more interesting things that I could tell
I have included my story with this.
I would like to give it to you at a later time.
I would like to email it to you @ Patricia.A.Wilson.84106@gmail.com
My Ancestor’s story
Name:
Email Address:
Phone #:
Address:
Ancestor’s Name Relationship:
I have included my ancestor’s story with this.
I would like to give it to you at a later time.
I would like to email it to you @ Patricia.A.Wilson.84106@gmail.com
My Recipe
Name:
Email Address:
Phone #:
Address:
Recipe Name:
Source (This can be something that you learned/created on your own, it was passed down from a family member (who), or that you read from a magazine (give magazine name and date/volume), etc.)
I have included my recipe with this.
I would like to give it to you at a later time.
I would like to email it to you @ Patricia.A.Wilson.84106@gmail.com
An Idea/tip I would like to share (fun family activities, cleaning/organizing, genealogy, etc).
Name:
Email Address:
Phone #:
Address:
Idea type :
Source (This can be something that you learned/created on your own, it was passed down from a family member (who), or that you read from a magazine (give magazine name and date/volume), etc.)
I have included my idea/tip with this.
I would like to give it to you at a later time.
I would like to email it to you @ Patricia.A.Wilson.84106@gmail.com
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
July 2010 Newsletter
July Lessons
July 4 RS Presidency/Group Leadership Sherrie Marriott
July 11 Gospel Principles #12 The Atonement Myrna Clark
July 18 Gospel Principles #13 The Priesthood Ramona Ford
July 25 Teaching for our Times General Talk from April 2010 General Conference talk “The Blessing of Scripture” Elder D. Todd Christofferson
The Sister of the Month
This month’s sister of the month was going to be Sister Maridian Toufi. She has been a wonderful member of our Relief Society and our Ward. Her current assignment is with her husband as the leaders of the Stake Single Adults. I can tell from personal experience that they are doing an excellent job. However, she has had such a very busy few months that we are going to have her do it next month (hopefully she may give us a few of the behind the scene details – like how the two new missionaries are doing). I have almost felt that it would be self serving to write my own story in. On the other hand, anytime you ask someone else to do something, you should be willing to do it yourself. Also, one of the things that I wanted to show is that each sister’s story is exactly what she wants it to be. You can tell us about your family – your parents and siblings, your extended family, your husband and children. Especially if you grew up somewhere that is unfamiliar to the rest of us, it would be interesting if you would give us some insights. Sister Taylor included a list she titled “A few more tidbits about me” that included favorite color, favorite food books, favorite places, and what I dream about. This is a fun and offers a neat insight. I really appreciated Sister Mary Gallagher giving a plug for being a sister of the month. I do want it to be something that is fun. If anyone would be interested, I would appreciate it if you would let me know. One problem I have is that, since this is my 21st edition (a proud tradition since November 2008 ☺) I sometimes forget who has been sister of the month and who hasn’t. Even harder is to remember which sisters have already politely declined. Also, if there is a less active sister that is on your visiting teaching route, or is a neighbor, that you think would be interested in sharing her story, please ask her if she would like to share her story – it’s even more important to get to know these sisters.
I have also included a story about my Great Great Grandfather John Solomon Fullmer – including a small portion of two articles that he had published, “John Solomon Fullmer's account of the expulsion of the Saints from Nauvoo (1846-published 1855).
Holidays in July
July has two holidays – both having something in common. Both the starting of this nation and the ushering in of this dispensation were both prophesied of in the Book of Mormon. Celebrating these holidays reminds us of their significance in our lives.
It Josephs Smith’s first vision, and subsequent actions, that brought the gospel to us. In the D&C it states:
"Joseph Smith, the Prophet and Seer of the Lord, has done more, save Jesus only, for the salvation of men in this world, than any other man that ever lived in it. (D&C 135:3).
After the church was established, it needed a place to grow into what it is today. Brigham Young was the right person to do it and, to paraphrase him; this was the right place to establish the headquarters of the church. Celebrating Pioneer Day is a way to honor all those who paid such a dear price (both those who suffered at the hands of the mobs and those who made the long journey to get here) for us to have such a tremendous gift.
It is interesting to me that the reason for the other holiday that we celebrate this month is the founding of a country that would foster an environment that would make the restoration of the gospel possible. In the October 1987 General Conference, President Ezra Taft Benson gave a talk entitled “Our Divine Constitution.” It is a testament that God is not standing idly by letting things happen. With this great gift we should both be thankful and mindful of opportunities to participate. Adlai Stevenson once said “Patriotism... is not short, frenzied outbursts of emotion, but the tranquil and steady dedication of a lifetime. “ There are both small and large opportunities to participate, depending on our interests, time and availability. Voting is something we all can do (we had a primary election in June and will be having a regular election in November). Becoming informed on the decisions you are making is more difficult, but increases the value of our votes. Also helping in the process is beneficial – I know that Barbara Stout has been an election judge (as her Grandmother used to do). There is also helping campaigning for candidates or issues. This is another topic where each sister needs to decide if this is where her talents and interests are and how much or how little we want to/can participate.
July Recipes and fun
I have included a couple of fun recipes - one patriotic and two cool, refreshing and nutritious. I have also included a some fun games and activities centered around the pioneers. Even if some of the games listed might be more fun to talk about then to play – noting how much different life was back then and how people would take pleasure in the simpler things of life. It also is interesting to see that at least a couple of these games have lasted the test of time. One thought might be to have a pretend black out night and see what fun we can have without electricity.
There are also pages for backyard fun, games and safety tips. Memories can be made with very simple acts – especially if you can find something that works with your family and make a tradition of it (and surprisingly children seem to have very fond memories of things that didn’t seem that big of deal of the time).
Summer Weather Tip
This is probably a tip that will have my mother following me around with a glass of water ☺ In the June/July 2010 issue of Reader’s Digest they have an article under their Health section entitled “Quench Your Crankiness” That states:
“Nex time your mood takes a dive, have a drink – of water. In a recent Tufts University study, college athletes who weren’t given fluids during practice felt more confused, angry, tense, and blue afterward than those who had plenty of water. ‘The level of dehydration was very mild – it could easlity be compared with what busy office workers might experience if they forgot to drink enough during the day.’ Says lead researcher Kristen E. D’Anci, PhD. How much you need to drink depends on the weather and your activity level and weight. Still, D’Anci says, ‘eight 8-ounces glasses of water a day never hurt anybody.’
July 4 RS Presidency/Group Leadership Sherrie Marriott
July 11 Gospel Principles #12 The Atonement Myrna Clark
July 18 Gospel Principles #13 The Priesthood Ramona Ford
July 25 Teaching for our Times General Talk from April 2010 General Conference talk “The Blessing of Scripture” Elder D. Todd Christofferson
The Sister of the Month
This month’s sister of the month was going to be Sister Maridian Toufi. She has been a wonderful member of our Relief Society and our Ward. Her current assignment is with her husband as the leaders of the Stake Single Adults. I can tell from personal experience that they are doing an excellent job. However, she has had such a very busy few months that we are going to have her do it next month (hopefully she may give us a few of the behind the scene details – like how the two new missionaries are doing). I have almost felt that it would be self serving to write my own story in. On the other hand, anytime you ask someone else to do something, you should be willing to do it yourself. Also, one of the things that I wanted to show is that each sister’s story is exactly what she wants it to be. You can tell us about your family – your parents and siblings, your extended family, your husband and children. Especially if you grew up somewhere that is unfamiliar to the rest of us, it would be interesting if you would give us some insights. Sister Taylor included a list she titled “A few more tidbits about me” that included favorite color, favorite food books, favorite places, and what I dream about. This is a fun and offers a neat insight. I really appreciated Sister Mary Gallagher giving a plug for being a sister of the month. I do want it to be something that is fun. If anyone would be interested, I would appreciate it if you would let me know. One problem I have is that, since this is my 21st edition (a proud tradition since November 2008 ☺) I sometimes forget who has been sister of the month and who hasn’t. Even harder is to remember which sisters have already politely declined. Also, if there is a less active sister that is on your visiting teaching route, or is a neighbor, that you think would be interested in sharing her story, please ask her if she would like to share her story – it’s even more important to get to know these sisters.
I have also included a story about my Great Great Grandfather John Solomon Fullmer – including a small portion of two articles that he had published, “John Solomon Fullmer's account of the expulsion of the Saints from Nauvoo (1846-published 1855).
Holidays in July
July has two holidays – both having something in common. Both the starting of this nation and the ushering in of this dispensation were both prophesied of in the Book of Mormon. Celebrating these holidays reminds us of their significance in our lives.
It Josephs Smith’s first vision, and subsequent actions, that brought the gospel to us. In the D&C it states:
"Joseph Smith, the Prophet and Seer of the Lord, has done more, save Jesus only, for the salvation of men in this world, than any other man that ever lived in it. (D&C 135:3).
After the church was established, it needed a place to grow into what it is today. Brigham Young was the right person to do it and, to paraphrase him; this was the right place to establish the headquarters of the church. Celebrating Pioneer Day is a way to honor all those who paid such a dear price (both those who suffered at the hands of the mobs and those who made the long journey to get here) for us to have such a tremendous gift.
It is interesting to me that the reason for the other holiday that we celebrate this month is the founding of a country that would foster an environment that would make the restoration of the gospel possible. In the October 1987 General Conference, President Ezra Taft Benson gave a talk entitled “Our Divine Constitution.” It is a testament that God is not standing idly by letting things happen. With this great gift we should both be thankful and mindful of opportunities to participate. Adlai Stevenson once said “Patriotism... is not short, frenzied outbursts of emotion, but the tranquil and steady dedication of a lifetime. “ There are both small and large opportunities to participate, depending on our interests, time and availability. Voting is something we all can do (we had a primary election in June and will be having a regular election in November). Becoming informed on the decisions you are making is more difficult, but increases the value of our votes. Also helping in the process is beneficial – I know that Barbara Stout has been an election judge (as her Grandmother used to do). There is also helping campaigning for candidates or issues. This is another topic where each sister needs to decide if this is where her talents and interests are and how much or how little we want to/can participate.
July Recipes and fun
I have included a couple of fun recipes - one patriotic and two cool, refreshing and nutritious. I have also included a some fun games and activities centered around the pioneers. Even if some of the games listed might be more fun to talk about then to play – noting how much different life was back then and how people would take pleasure in the simpler things of life. It also is interesting to see that at least a couple of these games have lasted the test of time. One thought might be to have a pretend black out night and see what fun we can have without electricity.
There are also pages for backyard fun, games and safety tips. Memories can be made with very simple acts – especially if you can find something that works with your family and make a tradition of it (and surprisingly children seem to have very fond memories of things that didn’t seem that big of deal of the time).
Summer Weather Tip
This is probably a tip that will have my mother following me around with a glass of water ☺ In the June/July 2010 issue of Reader’s Digest they have an article under their Health section entitled “Quench Your Crankiness” That states:
“Nex time your mood takes a dive, have a drink – of water. In a recent Tufts University study, college athletes who weren’t given fluids during practice felt more confused, angry, tense, and blue afterward than those who had plenty of water. ‘The level of dehydration was very mild – it could easlity be compared with what busy office workers might experience if they forgot to drink enough during the day.’ Says lead researcher Kristen E. D’Anci, PhD. How much you need to drink depends on the weather and your activity level and weight. Still, D’Anci says, ‘eight 8-ounces glasses of water a day never hurt anybody.’
Pioneer Games from The Children’s Friend
Blind Man's Buff - One person is blindfolded and other players form a circle around him/her. The blindfolded person is turned around a few times then let go to catch one of the players. There are different ways to play the game. One way is that the blindfolded player has to guess who they have caught.
Drop the handkerchief - Players join hands and form a circle while "it" holds a handkerchief and runs around the circle. "It" drops the handkerchief behind one of the players and keeps running. The player then picks up the handkerchief and runs around the circle in the opposite direction. They race to see who reaches the empty spot first. The loser becomes the next "it".
Ducks Fly - Players face the leader, who says what to do. Then they copy the actions of the leader. The leader will say "Ducks fly" and flap his arms. The players also flap their arms. The leader continues with other actions like "cats meow", "dogs bark, etc. But the leader also tries to trick others by saying "sheep oink". The players must remain quiet until the leader says it correctly.
Fox and Geese - This game is played after a snowfall. First the snow is tramped down in paths to make a big wheel with spokes and a hub in the center. One player is the Fox and the rest are the Geese. The Fox tries to catch a Goose (who then becomes the next Fox). Players must stay inside the paths. If a Goose steps off the path, that Goose is caught. The only safe place for a Goose is in the center (hub). But only one Goose is allowed to be in the center.
Hot and cold - One person (it) leaves the room while the others hide a button (or some other object). When "it" returns he/she has to try and find the button. The others give hints by saying "warm, warmer, hot, or cold, colder, etc."
Jack Straws - This game is like "pick up sticks". Straws or very thin sticks were used. The straws were placed in a pile shaped like a haystack or tent (coming to a point at the top and spread out at the bottom). Each player took a turn pulling a straw out of the pile trying not to move any other straws. If a player was able to get a straw without jiggling any other straws he/she scored a point. Then it was the next player's turn. The game ended when the stack fell. The winner was the player with the most straws. To make the game more interesting, there were "special" straws which were worth more points.
Marbles - The object of the game is to win marbles from other players. The first player tosses a marble on the ground. The second player tries to hit the marble by tossing his/her marble at it. If the second player is successful, he/she wins the marble. If not successful, the first player has a turn to try and hit the second player's marble. There were many other ways to play "marbles".
Poor Doggie (or Poor Kitty) - "It" is the doggie who must try to make someone laugh. The players sit in a circle and Doggie goes to each player and barks, whines and imitates a dog. The players have to pet Doggie and say "Poor Doggie, Poor Doggie, Poor Doggie!" The player must not smile while saying this or he/she will become the next Doggie.
Rolling the hoop - Children would run along beside a hoop, rolling it by using a stick. Sometimes races were held to see who could be the fastest. There were also contests to see who could roll the hoop the farthest or who could keep it rolling for the longest time.
Shadow tag - "It" tries to step on another player's shadow. If a player gets tired of running away, he/she must lie down so "it" cannot tag them.
Simon says - Players face the leader and must do what the leader says. If the leader says "Simon says, Thumbs up" and puts up his thumbs, then the players must do the same thing. The leader calls out and does other actions like "Simon says hop on one foot" or "Simon says touch your toes ", etc. But if the leader does not say the words "Simon says" and just says "jump up and down" the players should do nothing. Anyone who is tricked by the leader has to become the next leader.
Who has the button? - The players form a circle and the person who is "it" leaves (or closes his/her eyes) while the others pass a "button" or another object around the circle. One person hides the object behind his/her back. All the other players put their hands behind their backs, too. Then "it" is allowed three guesses as to who is hiding the object. If "it" guesses correctly they exchange places and a new person is "it".
Drop the handkerchief - Players join hands and form a circle while "it" holds a handkerchief and runs around the circle. "It" drops the handkerchief behind one of the players and keeps running. The player then picks up the handkerchief and runs around the circle in the opposite direction. They race to see who reaches the empty spot first. The loser becomes the next "it".
Ducks Fly - Players face the leader, who says what to do. Then they copy the actions of the leader. The leader will say "Ducks fly" and flap his arms. The players also flap their arms. The leader continues with other actions like "cats meow", "dogs bark, etc. But the leader also tries to trick others by saying "sheep oink". The players must remain quiet until the leader says it correctly.
Fox and Geese - This game is played after a snowfall. First the snow is tramped down in paths to make a big wheel with spokes and a hub in the center. One player is the Fox and the rest are the Geese. The Fox tries to catch a Goose (who then becomes the next Fox). Players must stay inside the paths. If a Goose steps off the path, that Goose is caught. The only safe place for a Goose is in the center (hub). But only one Goose is allowed to be in the center.
Hot and cold - One person (it) leaves the room while the others hide a button (or some other object). When "it" returns he/she has to try and find the button. The others give hints by saying "warm, warmer, hot, or cold, colder, etc."
Jack Straws - This game is like "pick up sticks". Straws or very thin sticks were used. The straws were placed in a pile shaped like a haystack or tent (coming to a point at the top and spread out at the bottom). Each player took a turn pulling a straw out of the pile trying not to move any other straws. If a player was able to get a straw without jiggling any other straws he/she scored a point. Then it was the next player's turn. The game ended when the stack fell. The winner was the player with the most straws. To make the game more interesting, there were "special" straws which were worth more points.
Marbles - The object of the game is to win marbles from other players. The first player tosses a marble on the ground. The second player tries to hit the marble by tossing his/her marble at it. If the second player is successful, he/she wins the marble. If not successful, the first player has a turn to try and hit the second player's marble. There were many other ways to play "marbles".
Poor Doggie (or Poor Kitty) - "It" is the doggie who must try to make someone laugh. The players sit in a circle and Doggie goes to each player and barks, whines and imitates a dog. The players have to pet Doggie and say "Poor Doggie, Poor Doggie, Poor Doggie!" The player must not smile while saying this or he/she will become the next Doggie.
Rolling the hoop - Children would run along beside a hoop, rolling it by using a stick. Sometimes races were held to see who could be the fastest. There were also contests to see who could roll the hoop the farthest or who could keep it rolling for the longest time.
Shadow tag - "It" tries to step on another player's shadow. If a player gets tired of running away, he/she must lie down so "it" cannot tag them.
Simon says - Players face the leader and must do what the leader says. If the leader says "Simon says, Thumbs up" and puts up his thumbs, then the players must do the same thing. The leader calls out and does other actions like "Simon says hop on one foot" or "Simon says touch your toes ", etc. But if the leader does not say the words "Simon says" and just says "jump up and down" the players should do nothing. Anyone who is tricked by the leader has to become the next leader.
Who has the button? - The players form a circle and the person who is "it" leaves (or closes his/her eyes) while the others pass a "button" or another object around the circle. One person hides the object behind his/her back. All the other players put their hands behind their backs, too. Then "it" is allowed three guesses as to who is hiding the object. If "it" guesses correctly they exchange places and a new person is "it".
Pioneer Day
Pioneer Day in United States From Wikipedia
Quick Facts
Pioneer Day is an annual state holiday in Utah in the United States. It is celebrated to honor the pioneers who demonstrated industry and bravery when they ventured to settle in a place that is now Salt Lake City.
Pioneer Day 2010
Friday, July 23, 2010 – Observed date
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Pioneer Day 2011
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Monday, July 25, 2011 – Observed date
Pioneer Day is a state holiday in Utah in the United States. It is celebrated on July 24 each year to commemorate the entry of Brigham Young and the first group of Mormon pioneers into Utah’s Salt Lake Valley in 1847. This day celebrates the bravery of the original settlers and their strength of character and physical endurance.
What do people do?
Pioneer Day activities include fireworks, parades, picnics, rodeos and other festivities throughout the state. Some people say that this day is celebrated in Utah with more zeal and pride than major holidays such as Christmas. Children take part in essay contests and projects about pioneers, while families enjoy the day with concerts and festivals. For the parades, some people may wear costumes that resemble clothes worn during the 19th century when Salt Lake Valley was founded.
Public life
Pioneer Day is a state holiday in Utah so county offices (except emergency services), educational institutions, and many businesses are closed. In some areas, some public transport services, such as buses, do not run on public holidays. People are advised to check public transit schedules first before they decide to travel via public transport during a public holiday.
Background
This day commemorates the entry of Brigham Young and the first group of Mormon pioneers into Utah’s Salt Lake Valley on July 24, 1847. The Mormon pioneers viewed their arrival as the founding of a Mormon homeland, hence Pioneer Day. The Mormons, as they were commonly known, left their settlement in Nauvoo, Illinois, and journeyed west seeking refuge from religious persecution. The final impetus for their trek was the murder of founder and prophet Joseph Smith on June 27, 1844.
Determined to settle in an isolated region, the pioneers made their way across the plains and over the Rocky Mountains to Utah. They lost many of their party to disease during the winter months. By the time that they reached Utah, the desolate valley was a welcome sight. Potatoes and turnips were soon planted, and a dam was built. With solemn ceremonies, the settlers consecrated the two-square-mile city, and sent back word that the “promised land” was found. By the end of 1847, nearly 2000 Mormons settled in the Salt Lake Valley. The first Pioneer Day was celebrated in 1849 with a parade, band music and speeches. In modern times July 24 is celebrated annually as Pioneer Day, a state holiday, in Utah.
Symbols
The beehive became the official state emblem on March 4, 1959. Utah’s residents relate the beehive symbol to industry and the pioneer virtues of thrift and perseverance. The beehive was chosen as the emblem for the provisional state of Deseret in 1848 and was maintained on the seal of the state of Utah when Utah became a state in 1896.
“Industry” officially became the state motto on March 4, 1959. It is associated with the symbol of the beehive. The early pioneers had few material resources at their disposal and had to rely on their own “industry” to survive. The word “industry” appears on both the state seal and the state flag.
Pioneer Day (Utah) From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Pioneer Day (also archaically called the Day of Deliverance) is an official holiday celebrated on July 24 in the U.S. state of Utah, with some celebrations in regions of surrounding states originally settled by Mormon pioneers. It commemorates the entry of Brigham Young and the first group of Mormon pioneers into the Salt Lake Valley on July 24, 1847, where the Latter-day Saints settled after being forced from Nauvoo, Illinois and other locations in the eastern United States. Parades, fireworks, rodeos, and other festivities help commemorate the event.
In addition to being an official holiday in Utah, Pioneer Day is considered a special occasion by many members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church).On Pioneer Day, some Latter-day Saints walk portions of the Mormon Trail or reenact entering the Salt Lake Valley by handcart. Latter-day Saints throughout the United States and around the world may celebrate July 24 in remembrance of the LDS Churches' pioneer era, with songs, dances, and pioneer related activities.
While the holiday has strong links to the LDS Church, it is a celebration of everyone, regardless of faith and nationality, who emigrated to the Salt Lake Valley during the pioneer era, which is generally considered to have ended with the 1869 arrival of the transcontinental railroad. Notable non-LDS American pioneers from this period include Bishop Daniel Tuttle, who was responsible for Utah's first non-Mormon schools (Rowland Hall-St. Mark's) and first public hospital (St. Mark's) in the 1800s. The Intertribal Powwow at Liberty Park in Salt Lake City honors the rich cultural heritage and contributions of the area's American Indians, helping Utahns to gain a deeper understanding of the region's history.
Quick Facts
Pioneer Day is an annual state holiday in Utah in the United States. It is celebrated to honor the pioneers who demonstrated industry and bravery when they ventured to settle in a place that is now Salt Lake City.
Pioneer Day 2010
Friday, July 23, 2010 – Observed date
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Pioneer Day 2011
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Monday, July 25, 2011 – Observed date
Pioneer Day is a state holiday in Utah in the United States. It is celebrated on July 24 each year to commemorate the entry of Brigham Young and the first group of Mormon pioneers into Utah’s Salt Lake Valley in 1847. This day celebrates the bravery of the original settlers and their strength of character and physical endurance.
What do people do?
Pioneer Day activities include fireworks, parades, picnics, rodeos and other festivities throughout the state. Some people say that this day is celebrated in Utah with more zeal and pride than major holidays such as Christmas. Children take part in essay contests and projects about pioneers, while families enjoy the day with concerts and festivals. For the parades, some people may wear costumes that resemble clothes worn during the 19th century when Salt Lake Valley was founded.
Public life
Pioneer Day is a state holiday in Utah so county offices (except emergency services), educational institutions, and many businesses are closed. In some areas, some public transport services, such as buses, do not run on public holidays. People are advised to check public transit schedules first before they decide to travel via public transport during a public holiday.
Background
This day commemorates the entry of Brigham Young and the first group of Mormon pioneers into Utah’s Salt Lake Valley on July 24, 1847. The Mormon pioneers viewed their arrival as the founding of a Mormon homeland, hence Pioneer Day. The Mormons, as they were commonly known, left their settlement in Nauvoo, Illinois, and journeyed west seeking refuge from religious persecution. The final impetus for their trek was the murder of founder and prophet Joseph Smith on June 27, 1844.
Determined to settle in an isolated region, the pioneers made their way across the plains and over the Rocky Mountains to Utah. They lost many of their party to disease during the winter months. By the time that they reached Utah, the desolate valley was a welcome sight. Potatoes and turnips were soon planted, and a dam was built. With solemn ceremonies, the settlers consecrated the two-square-mile city, and sent back word that the “promised land” was found. By the end of 1847, nearly 2000 Mormons settled in the Salt Lake Valley. The first Pioneer Day was celebrated in 1849 with a parade, band music and speeches. In modern times July 24 is celebrated annually as Pioneer Day, a state holiday, in Utah.
Symbols
The beehive became the official state emblem on March 4, 1959. Utah’s residents relate the beehive symbol to industry and the pioneer virtues of thrift and perseverance. The beehive was chosen as the emblem for the provisional state of Deseret in 1848 and was maintained on the seal of the state of Utah when Utah became a state in 1896.
“Industry” officially became the state motto on March 4, 1959. It is associated with the symbol of the beehive. The early pioneers had few material resources at their disposal and had to rely on their own “industry” to survive. The word “industry” appears on both the state seal and the state flag.
Pioneer Day (Utah) From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Pioneer Day (also archaically called the Day of Deliverance) is an official holiday celebrated on July 24 in the U.S. state of Utah, with some celebrations in regions of surrounding states originally settled by Mormon pioneers. It commemorates the entry of Brigham Young and the first group of Mormon pioneers into the Salt Lake Valley on July 24, 1847, where the Latter-day Saints settled after being forced from Nauvoo, Illinois and other locations in the eastern United States. Parades, fireworks, rodeos, and other festivities help commemorate the event.
In addition to being an official holiday in Utah, Pioneer Day is considered a special occasion by many members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church).On Pioneer Day, some Latter-day Saints walk portions of the Mormon Trail or reenact entering the Salt Lake Valley by handcart. Latter-day Saints throughout the United States and around the world may celebrate July 24 in remembrance of the LDS Churches' pioneer era, with songs, dances, and pioneer related activities.
While the holiday has strong links to the LDS Church, it is a celebration of everyone, regardless of faith and nationality, who emigrated to the Salt Lake Valley during the pioneer era, which is generally considered to have ended with the 1869 arrival of the transcontinental railroad. Notable non-LDS American pioneers from this period include Bishop Daniel Tuttle, who was responsible for Utah's first non-Mormon schools (Rowland Hall-St. Mark's) and first public hospital (St. Mark's) in the 1800s. The Intertribal Powwow at Liberty Park in Salt Lake City honors the rich cultural heritage and contributions of the area's American Indians, helping Utahns to gain a deeper understanding of the region's history.
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