Springfield Area Blog

Table Rock Lake is finally getting back to normal.  Water is clearing up and very warm. Nice for an evening swim.  Right now the level is at 917.7 at this time and dropping.  Came across a great site to access the latest information on this.  You can go to

www.swl-wc.usace.army.mil/WCDS/Reports/Data/Tabrock.htm

to get all the latest data.  There will be plenty of firewood for everyone as the receding waters have left plenty! Lots of cleanup for homeowners ahead.  Have a great weekend!

Hey friends,

Just thought I would vent a bit regarding Brett Favre's departure to the New York Jets, land of Broadway Joe.  Couldn't believe that it would actually come to this, but I believe the Packers had indeed moved on and although I know he has some gas left in the tank, it was time.  Would love to have had him back with this young team, but he simply couldn't commit.   I will be watching him closely this year with the Jets but it's always been about the team with me and my family.  As a season ticket holder in Green Bay, it will be strange not seeing him running out of the tunnel.  I wish him the best.

Go Packers!

  Every year, we get the opportunity to go "up north" and get together with my wife's family in Northern Michigan.  We stay at the East Bay Lodge, formerly known as Shea's.  It is old and getting older each year.  Some years we have great weather, and some years it is this year which was not so nice.  We had rain and 68 one day and 60 and windy another.  Welcome to the North Country.  The lake itself is amazing in that you can nearly walk across it with out getting your hat wet.  20000 acres and only 22 feet at it's maximum depth.  Contrast that with Higgins Lake, which is just a couple miles north and very deep 136 feet, spring fed, clear and cold.  Both were in mid to high 60's and we are in August!  The weekend was still fun, weather not included, with family and friends.  Below is a picture of the lake (during happier times!)

Could Optimism be the Secret to Living a Longer, Happier Life?

Recent scientific research now confirms the secret ingredient to a longer life—an optimistic attitude. And there’s even better news...anyone can learn to be more optimistic.

A Dutch study found that optimistic people live longer; in fact, almost 30% longer than pessimists. Scientists found an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, heart attack, stroke, and weakening of the immune system associated with pessimism.

Researchers at the Mayo Clinic, reporting on a 30-year study, found that optimistic people live about 19 percent longer than pessimists do.

These findings come from studying 839 people living in Minnesota. The researchers found people classified as “optimists” had significantly better survival rates. Optimists were less likely to develop depression, sought medical help when needed, and took better care of themselves.

So how can you become more optimistic? Here are six tips for becoming a more optimistic person:

1. Set Specific Goals. A study of happy people found they set goals and consistently take action.

2. Project A Cheerful Voice. Research has shown people feel the emotion they are acting. Use a positive voice.

3. Use Positive Language. Use upbeat words: opportunity, challenge, recharging, success, can do, solution.

4. Practice Good Posture. Optimists have good posture, stand tall, walk briskly, and take big steps.

5. Focus on Solutions. When a difficult situation comes up, focus on the solution, and put it into action.

6. Be A Role Model. When you act as a role model for your co-workers, employees, family, and friends, you’ll become more optimistic.

Just by applying these six steps to your life, you can change your thinking, and reduce your risk of physical illness and live a longer, and more fulfilling life.

If you would like more great tips for healthy and wealthy living, just click on the link below to see a sample! You can sign up and receive this fun and informative monthly newletter for free.  Simply email me with your address and I'll add your name to my list.

Rick Below's Service For Life!

I think we picked the hottest week to have our son in Camp down at Kanukuk.  I am sure he is doing alright despite the extreme heat.  They'll be spending alot of time in the pool and lake and staying in the shade if the pictures we have seen are any indication.  I thought it might be appropriate to remind everyone how to help prevent heat related illness.  These tips are time tested and true.  Stay cool out there.

• Drink more fluids (nonalcoholic), regardless of your activity level. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink. Warning: If your doctor generally limits the amount of fluid you drink or has you on water pills, ask him how much you should drink while the weather is hot.
   
• Don’t drink liquids that contain alcohol or large amounts of sugar–these actually cause you to lose more body fluid. Also, avoid very cold drinks, because they can cause stomach cramps.
   
• Stay indoors and, if at all possible, stay in an air-conditioned place. If your home does not have air conditioning, go to the shopping mall or public library–even a few hours spent in air conditioning can help your body stay cooler when you go back into the heat. Call your local health department to see if there are any heat-relief shelters in your area.
   
• Electric fans may provide comfort, but when the temperature is in the high 90s, fans will not prevent heat-related illness. Taking a cool shower or bath, or moving to an air-conditioned place is a much better way to cool off.
   
• Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
   
• NEVER leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle.
   
• Although any one at any time can suffer from heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others. Check regularly on:
   
  • Infants and young children
  • People aged 65 or older
  • People who have a mental illness
  • Those who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure
     
• Visit adults at risk at least twice a day and closely watch them for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Infants and young children, of course, need much more frequent watching.

If you must be out in the heat:

• Limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening hours.
   
• Cut down on exercise. If you must exercise, drink two to four glasses of cool, nonalcoholic fluids each hour.  A sports beverage can replace the salt and minerals you lose in sweat. Warning: If you are on a low-salt diet, talk with your doctor before drinking a sports beverage. Remember the warning in the first “tip” (above), too.
   
• Try to rest often in shady areas.
   
• Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat (also keeps you cooler) and sunglasses and by putting on sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher (the most effective products say “broad spectrum” or “UVA/UVB protection” on their labels).

This information provided by NCEH's Health Studies Branch.