Rivermist - May 2012

The Beacon

Volume 3, Issue 5

May 2012

CARNIVAL PHOTOS

Carnival Celebration Dear Residents of Rivermist, The Spring Carnival and Easter Egg Hunt was a blast with a great time had by all. We want to thank all our members who came out and supported the event. The Easter Bunny was a big hit as were the activities. We want to thank the companies that helped us make the event a success.

Our sincerest thanks to: Party Pals San Antonio http://www.partypalssa.com/ Parties, Picnics and Promotions http://www.partiespicnics.com/ Game Truck http://www.gametruckparty.com/SanAntonio

LOOKING FORWARD TO NEXT YEAR!

Please enjoy the photos from the event.

Sincerely, Your Rivermist Board of Directors Charles Hasberry, Debora Estes, Rudy Cervera, Michael Southworth and Jeff Wells Copyright Š 2012 Peel, Inc.

The Beacon - May 2012

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The Beacon

Board members Michael Southworth, Debora Estes and HOA President Charles Hasberry hanging with the Easter Bunny

Spreading The Soil Dear Residents of Rivermist, We want to thank all our members who participated in the Topsoil Giveaway for making that such a successful event.

Over 60 households participated. Please enjoy the following photos from the event.

Driving the Bobcat

Sincerely, Your Rivermist Board of Directors Charles Hasberry, Debora Estes, Rudy Cervera, Michael Southworth and Jeff Wells

Board members Rudy Cervera, Debora Estes and Charles Hasberry

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The Beacon - May 2012

Jose Cadena, Ram Govindaraj, Ram’s son and BOD member Michael Southworth

HOA President Charles Hasberry checking in a happy homeowner

Board member Michael Southworth and homeowner Thirumalai Kannan

Jose and Rosa Candena-Jose was a 1 man shoveling Machine!

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The Beacon

The Benefits of Massage

What exactly are the benefits of receiving massage or bodywork treatments? Useful for all of the conditions listed below and more, massage can: Alleviate back and neck pain and improve range of motion. Assist with shorter, easier labor for expectant mothers and shorten maternity hospital stays. Ease medication dependence.

Enhance immunity by stimulating lymph flow—the body’s natural defense system. Exercise and stretch weak, tight, or atrophied muscles.

Help athletes of any level prepare for, and recover from, strenuous workouts. Improve the condition of the body’s largest organ—the skin.

Increase joint flexibility. Lessen depression and anxiety. Promote tissue regeneration, reducing scar tissue and stretch marks. Pump oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs, improving circulation.

Reduce post surgery adhesions and swelling. Reduce spasms and cramping.Relax and soften injured, tired, and overused muscles.

Release endorphins—amino acids that work as the body’s natural painkiller. Relieve and treat migraine pain. A major player in the treatment and management of fibromalgia. Parkinson›s disease.

Many other neurological disorders.

Research shows that with massage: Arthritis sufferers note fewer aches and less stiffness and pain. Asthmatic children show better pulmonary function and increased peak air flow. Burn injury patients report reduced pain, itching, and anxiety. High blood pressure patients demonstrate lower diastolic blood pressure, anxiety, and stress hormones. Premenstrual syndrome sufferers have decreased water retention and cramping. Preterm infants have improved weight gain.

Research continues to show the enormous benefits of touch— which range from treating chronic diseases, neurological disorders, and injuries, to alleviating the tensions of modern lifestyles.

Consequently, the medical community is actively embracing bodywork, and massage is becoming an integral part of hospice care and neonatal intensive care units. Many hospitals are also incorporating on-site massage practitioners and even spas to treat post surgery or pain patients as part of the recovery process. Also, fortunately, in the hard economic times we all find ourselves in, many more insurers are covering therapeutic massage in their basic health coverage.

There’s no denying the power of bodywork. Regardless of the adjectives we assign to it (pampering, rejuvenating, therapeutic) or the reasons we seek it out (a luxurious treat, stress relief, pain management), massage therapy can be a powerful ally in your healthcare regimen.Experts estimate that upwards of ninety percent of disease is stress related. And perhaps nothing ages us faster, internally and externally, than high stress. While eliminating anxiety and pressure altogether in this fast-paced world may be idealistic, massage can, without a doubt, help manage stress. This translates into: Decreased anxiety. Enhanced sleep quality. Greater energy. Improved concentration. Increased circulation. Reduced fatigue.

Furthermore, clients often report a sense of perspective and clarity after receiving a massage. The emotional balance bodywork provides can often be just as vital and valuable as the more tangible physical benefits.

Getting a massage can do you a world of good. And getting massage frequently can do even more. This is the beauty of bodywork. Taking part in this form of regularly scheduled self-care can play a huge part in how healthy you’ll be and how youthful you’ll remain with each passing year. Budgeting time and money for bodywork at consistent intervals is truly an investment in your health. And remember: just because massage feels like a pampering treat doesn’t mean it is any less therapeutic. Consider massage appointments a necessary piece of your health and wellness plan, and work with your practitioner to establish a treatment schedule that best meets your needs.

Let me take a brief moment to introduce myself. My name is Greg E. Sedbrook and I have been a member of the Rivermist community for over 5 years. I am a Licensed Massage Therapist and appreciate the opportunity to provide therapeutic massage therapy locally to our community. I can provide most massage modalities but specialize in neurological pain management; migraine headache relief, fibromyalgia and myofascial pain syndrome to name a few.

A Powerful Ally

Profound Effects

In response to massage, specific physiological and chemical changes cascade throughout the body, with profound effects.

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Increase the Benefits with Frequent Visits

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The Beacon Dear Homeowner,

Pro Tree Care Arbor

Ross Hosea, Owner

Here at Spectrum we strive to make the transition to our company as seamless and problem free as possible.

This article is just a reminder on the different ways you can pay your homeowner association dues. The most traditional method of coming to our office to pay is available. Our address is 17319 San Pedro, Suite 318, San Antonio, TX 78232. You can also register at www.spectrumam. com and login to pay your dues by e-check or credit card. We accept payment from Mastercard, Discover and American Express. On this site you can also setup recurring payments, view current reports of any ACC requests, Violations, governing documents, upcoming events and other information. For your security, we do not take credit card payments over the phone. If you ever have questions on how to register or how to review something on the website, please feel free to contact us. Our policy is to return all calls and emails the same day. I hope you have a wonderful holiday season and once again, feel free to contact me with any questions you may have.

ISA Certified Arborist #TX-3811A Texas Oak Wilt Certified

Regards,

Trimming ● Removal ● Planting Free Estimates

Jason M. Green Community Manager Office: 210.494.0659 www.spectrumam.com

San Antonio native with more than 20 years experience

(210) 912-4869 or rosshosea@hotmail.com

1 FREE Nail Trim* 4

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The Beacon What’s Cooking With Food Allergies Ever wonder why some packaged foods include the warning “made in a facility that processes nuts?” There’s a very good reason— some people can develop a life-threatening allergic reaction to eating tree nuts called anaphylaxis. There are a number of foods that can cause serious allergic reactions in certain people, says Thomas Smith, M.D., an allergist and immunologist for The Austin Diagnostic Clinic (ADC).

“From peanuts to dairy products to shellfish, there are several primary sources of food allergies affecting some 15 million Americans” says Dr. Smith.

A food allergy occurs when a person’s immune system mistakenly attacks a food protein. Dr. Smith says allergy symptoms can range from mild reactions likerashes, hives, itching and swelling, to severe, potentially fatal issues such as trouble breathing or loss of consciousness.

Understanding food allergies People with food allergy almost always have clear cut symptoms when eating a particular food. They usually know the food they are allergic to, or they at least have figured out a short list of possibilities. Either way, it’s a good idea to see an allergist to determine whether a food allergy exists and what food should be avoided. This is done by a review of a person’s history of symptoms and checking for food allergies with a skin test. It isalso common for people to experience an adverse effect from a food that is not an allergy. Distinguishing this is important because adverse effects that are not allergic do not carry the same risk of severe reactions, explains Dr. Smith.

“Once we have identified the source of a food allergy, unfortunately the only way to prevent an allergic reaction is to avoid the food. There is no cure for a food allergy,” says Dr. Smith. “If you are unsure about whether a particular food

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is safe, it’s always a good idea to call the manufacturer for more information.”

If a person unknowingly eats a food they are allergic to, the best option is to administer epinephrine, also called adrenaline.

This is the medication of choice for controlling a severe reaction. It is available by prescription as a self-injectable device called EpiPen or Twinject. Dr. Smith says patients should always have two doses available because some reactions that go away with one dose of epinephrine may return, requiring a second dose.

Parents with children with food allergies understandably are concerned when their children are at school. Virtually every state, including Texas, allows children to carry epinephrine during school with appropriate consent. Legislation passed last year in Texas, meanwhile, calls for the creation of food allergy management guidelines for schools.

Primary sources of food allergies The six most common foods causing allergy in children are milk, eggs, peanuts, wheat, peas, and soy. Tree nuts, fish, and shellfish are foods commonly causing allergy in children and adults. Allergy to one food occurs most often, while allergy to multiple foods is less likely. Here is a look at the main sources of food allergies in more detail: Peanuts. Peanuts can trigger a severe allergic reaction depending on how sensitive a person is to peanuts, and the quantity of peanuts consumed. Peanuts may be included in food items such aschili sauce, salad dressing, pizza, peanut cooking oil, egg rolls, and even jelly beans.

Tree nuts. Tree nut allergies affect an estimated 1.8 million Americans and are among the leading causes of fatal and near-fatal reactions to foods. Common types of tree nuts causing allergies include walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts, cashews, pistachios, and Brazil nuts.

Milk. About 2.5 percent of children younger than age 3 are allergic to milk, but most children outgrow milk allergies within a few years.

Eggs. An estimated 1.5 percent of young children have an egg allergy, but experts say most children eventually outgrow it.

Wheat. Wheat allergy is one of the more common food allergies in children. Wheat can be found in many food items such as breads, cakes, breakfast cereals, pasta, crackers, soy sauce and even condiments such as ketchup.

Soy. Although soybean allergies are generally mild, soybeans are used in myriad food items including baked goods, canned tuna, cereals, crackers, infant formulas, sauces, and soups.

Seafood. Nearly 7 million people in the United States are allergic to seafood, including fish and shellfish like shrimp, crab, and lobster. Salmon, tuna, and halibut are the most common kinds of fish people are allergic to. Seafood allergy is considered a lifelong condition and about 40 percent of those with a seafood allergy first experience an allergic reaction as an adult.

Beyond the usual food allergy suspects Dr. Smith says that while these seven types of food account for 90 percent of all food allergies, a person can be allergic to virtually any food.

Other potential allergy-prone foods include corn, seeds, meats, and spices such as caraway, coriander, garlic, and mustard.

Allergic reactions can also occur with fresh fruits and vegetables such as apples, carrots, peaches, plums, strawberries, tomatoes, and bananas.

“Awareness of a food allergy and early treatment with epinephrine are the most important ingredients in preventing a potentially dangerous reaction,” says Dr.Smith.

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The Beacon ADOPTION COALITION OF TEXAS

September 2001

Brandon will make you smile when you first meet him! He is such a sweet, funny, outgoing child. He is eager to participate in all activities from arts & crafts to playing sports. He thrives when receiving lots of attention and enjoys hugs. He is so excited to have a forever family. Brandon needs an active family that will provide him structure and lots of love. For more information on Brandon, please contact Stephanie Berka at the Adoption Coalition of Texas by email stephanieberka@adopttexas.org or by phone: 512-450-8750.

Sudoku The challenge is to fill every row across, every column down, and every 3x3 box with the digits 1 through 9. Each 1 through 9 digit must appear only once in each row across, each column down, and each 3x3 box.

Crossword Puzzle

Sign up for email alerts by registering at www.Spectrumam.com

Our management website is a treasure trove of information regarding neighborhood policies, community events, community safety and other helpful items. You can pay your assessment fee online and can also sign up to receive email updates/alerts that are sent out by the Board of Directors and site managers. If you need help registering or need to have your password reset, call our site manager, Jason Green at (210) 705-1121.

Your Board of Directors

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View answers online at www.peelinc.com DOWN ACROSS 1. Incline 1. Tack 2. Change 5. Giant 3. Small particle 9. Philippine dish with marinated 4. Compass point chicken or pork 5. Night bird 11. Journalist's question 6. Body snatcher 12. Tiny insects 7. Cultivate 13. Cut of beef 8. Volcano 14. School group 10. Change into bone 15. South 16. Musical productions 17. United States 18. Canadian prov.

18. Bottle need 19. Palladium (abbr.)

20. Upset 20. Many 22. Cow's chow 21. Perfect 23. Year (abbr.)

22. Captain (abbr.)

24. Computer makers 24. Institution (abbr.)

27. Brews 25. Swain 29. Sleep disorder 26. African country 31. Parent teacher groups 28. Fast plane 32. Strong rope fiber 30. Pastry 33. Bend 34. Decorative needle case © 2006. Feature Exchange

SUDOKU

Sudoku

The goal is to fill in the grid so that every© 2006. row, Feature everyExchange column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 through 9. Each digit may appear only once in each row, each column, and each 3x3 box.

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The Beacon A Focus on Physical Activity Pathway to Improved Health

By Concentra Urgent Care Should Older Adults Exercise,Too? Being physically active is one of the most important steps you can The same HHS guidelines apply, but older adults need to make take to maintain or improve your health. When combined with eating a healthy diet, regular exercise can substantially reduce your risk sure that their fitness level and any chronic conditions allow them of chronic disease, prevent weight gain, and improve your overall to safely perform physical activity. For example, if an older adult is at risk of falling, he should do exercises that maintain or improve level of physical and emotional fitness. his balance.

How Much Physical Activity Do I Need?

What If I Have a Chronic Medical CondiThe U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) has tion? recently published several recommendations related to exercise: If you have a chronic medical condition, you should be under the Any physical activity is better than no physical activity care of a health care provider. It is important to consult your physician • Includes people with disabilities about the type and amount of physical activity appropriate for you.

• Far outweighs the possibility of risk of injury or illness How Do I Get Started?

Most health benefits occur with at least 150 minutes a week The health benefits of physical activity far outweigh the risks and • Both aerobic (endurance) and muscle-strengthening (resistance) some activity is better than none. Persons who have not been diagare beneficial nosed with a chronic condition (such as diabetes, heart disease, or For most people, additional benefits occur when osteoarthritis) and do not have symptoms (e.g., chest pain or pres• You increase the intensity of your physical activity sure, dizziness, or joint pain) do not need to consult with a health • You increase the frequency of your physical activity care provider prior to starting an exercise program.

• You increase the duration of your physical activity For more information on total fitness programs in general, you can contact your health care provider, your Concentra health specialist, or visit the National Safety Council’s Web site at: http://www.nsc.org/ resources/Factsheets/hl/fitness.aspx.

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The Beacon Top Ten Tips for Improving Bad Breath Suffering from bad breath, but not sure why? Think about drinking more water and using less mouthwash. Find out why and learn more ways to improve your breath with these top ten tips.

Call it by its fancy name, “halitosis,” and it won’t smell any sweeter. Bad breath is frequently a sign that you’re not keeping up with your oral health. The source of this unpleasant odor is, in most cases, bacteria living on your teeth, gums or tongue. Follow these ten tips for a breath of fresh air: Brush your choppers twice each day. Better yet, brush after every meal. If you eat lunch at work or school, keep an extra toothbrush there. Also, be sure to replace your toothbrush regularly. Every few months, swap your brush for a fresh one.

Reach between your teeth. Flossing daily helps you remove food particles from between your teeth, where your toothbrush just can’t reach. Flossing also helps keep your gums healthy, preventing periodontal disease, which can also lead to bad breath. If using regular floss is difficult for you, try one of the many interdental cleaners available at drugstores.

Pick up an electric toothbrush. Along with floss, an electric toothbrush removes plaque better than a manual toothbrush.

Treat your tongue right. Bacteria can gather on the surface of your tongue, so use a soft-bristled toothbrush or a tongue scraper to clean it every time you brush.

Tap your inner teenager and chew gum. The act of chewing (sugarless!) gum stimulates the production of saliva, which naturally washes away bacteria and food particles. If you suffer from a lack of saliva due to “dry mouth,” a condition sometimes caused by medication, let us know; we can help address the problem.

Don’t fall for the myth of mouthwash. Most mouthwashes merely mask the smell of bad breath and don’t do anything to solve the underlying problem.

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Drink water regularly to keep your mouth moist, and go easy on alcohol and caffeine, both of which are dehydrating.

Turn off the tobacco. Smoking and chewing tobacco lead to bad breath. They also increase your risk of a host of serious health problems, from periodontal disease to cancer.

Take note of what you take in. Certain diets, foods and medications can affect your breath. If your problem doesn’t appear to be oral, make a list of the foods you eat and medications you take.

Review it with your dentist or your family doctor to assess the source of the problem.

Call in the experts. It’s important to have your teeth professionally checked and cleaned twice a year. Your dentist can give your teeth a thorough cleaning that isn’t possible at home, as well as check for and treat early signs of problems such as cavities or periodontal disease.

In rare cases, persistent bad breath can be a sign of a larger health problem. The American Dental Association lists possible medical sources of bad breath, including respiratory infection, chronic sinusitis, postnasal drip, chronic bronchitis, diabetes, gastrointestinal disturbance, and liver or kidney ailments. If your dentist suspects that your breath problem stems from a medical issue, he or she will recommend speaking with your family doctor immediately.

Submitted by Dr. Flury

Check us out on the web at www.rivermistsa.com Our community website is a treasure trove of information regarding community events, community safety and other helpful items. You can sign up to receive email updates/alerts that are sent out by our talented webmaster.

Sincerely, Your Board of Directors 8

The Beacon - May 2012

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