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Mentoring: A Team Approach to Helping Others by Sgt. Jim Leach Life is a journey--we need many tools to get us through--and mentoring is one important, too! I believe that we all need guidance and direction on our journey through life. I was very fortunate to have not one but a team of mentors that provided me with the help to survive. I was born and reared in the Western Addition area of San Francisco, and since baseball season is right around the corner, and I enjoy the game, I decided to use a baseball analogy to share with you my experience with my mentors. First Base: I grew up with loving parents. They taught me the values and beliefs that I carry with me today. My father, Rev. James Leach, was my first mentor. He stressed work ethics and treating people the way you want to be treated (The Golden Rule!). Both of my parents talked about the importance of family and education. My father would say, "Whatever you do in life, do your best." Always shoot for the mon and if you miss, you'll be among the stars. So, mentoring is first base and must start at home. Second Base: My most impressible time was when I attended junior high school (now called middle school). I attended Benjamin Franklin. I can still remember my first day at school. I was worried about being thrown into the garbage can, a freshman tradition, when I met my second mentor, Mr. Burl Toler. Mr. Toler was a young dynamic gym teacher and he convinced me that no one would hurt me. He had the biggest biceps I had ever seen. He later became the vice-principal and the first African-American National Football League (NFL) official. He taught me about standing up for what I believed in and supported my education pursuits. He was my mentor and role model. Third Base: I spent a lot of time hanging out in the community. I even joined a social club named the Barbarians to improver my socials and opportunities. After school and on the weekends, I spent countless hours at the Buchanan Street YMCA. This was my home away from home! There was something about the YMCA that made me feel safe and yet I was among my peers. I was allowed to express myself and develop maturity. At the YMCA there were several staff members who helped me, but my third mentor, a most impressive individual, was Mr. Yori Wada. Mr. Wada passed away last year. Mr. Wada spent so many hours at the YMCA that I didn't realize he had his own family. He would be there after school and on the weekends for our dances. I loved the dances. A chance to show off your latest moves to the music of James Brown, Aretha Franklin, Temptations, etc. I also played sports at the YMCA. As with baseball, when you're on first or second base, you must have discipline and be observant of your surroundings. I remember one meeting with Mr. Wada. Our social club had done something wrong and he took us into a room, and I couldn't believe that this "old guy" could handle our whole crew, but he did! From first base to third base, mentors can provide you with guidance and direction; however, the hitter (mente) that is at home pate must be willing to follow their guidance and direction. The common thread from my three mentors was tough love. I though they were talking to each other about how to handle me, only to find out they had little or no contact with each other. I didn't have a great appreciation for them then, but I can now honestly say they helped me to become the person I am, and I will always be thankful for their assistance. To honor my mentors, I have committed and dedicated myself to mentoring young people and anyone who will listen to me. Lastly, while at home plate, if you didn't hit a home run, don't be discouraged. Take full advantage of the opportunities that others have made for you. Be mentally and physically prepared to accept challenges. A walk is just as good to score the winning run to be among the stars! Recycling in San Francisco Hits Record High in 1997 by David Assmann
Paper, including newspaper, remained at the top of the list of materials recycled, making up more than two-thirds of all recyclables collected. The next most recycled material was glass, accounting for about one-fifth of the total. Special promotional campaigns to promote recycling were held in 14 neighborhoods in 1997, including Bayview/Hunters Point, Bernal Heights, Crocker Amazon, Excelsior, Ingleside Terrace, Lake Merced, Mission District, Mount Davidson, Miraloma, Portola, Visitacion Valley, Oceanview, Ingleside and Potrero Hill. On average, recycling went up six percent in these neighborhoods, with the biggest increase in Portola/Visitacion Valley, where recycling increased by almost 15 percent. More than 30,000 households received phone calls from the Recycling Program during the campaigns. During 1997, the neighborhood clean-up program became Super Recycling Day. In addition to recycling appliances, residents can now recycle woodwaste, yard waste and scrap metals as part of Super Recycling Day. The recycling rate for this program jumped from 10 percent in 1996 to 35 percent in 1997, with a total of about half a million pounds recycled during the year. Nineteen ninety-seven was also the year to test some new recycling collection programs, including the first collection programs for yard trimmings and food scraps. Four thousand residents in six neighborhoods were given the opportunity to put out yard trimmings and food scraps for composting. Residents responded well, with almost half a million pounds collected during 1997. Residents in another test area were given a second recycling bin just for paper (instead of putting paper in a paper bag or tying it with string, paper was put out in a separate container) which resulted in a 44 percent increase in recycling. In another neighborhood, residents were given one large container for all their recyclables, and this resulted in a 40 percent increase in recycling. This year we will continue to test these programs, as well as testing some new options. In selected test areas, residents will receive large containers split in half. In one area, residents will be asked to put yard trimmings and food scraps in one half, with trash in the other half. In the second area, all recyclables will be placed in one half, with trash in the other half. And in the third test area, residents will be asked to put yard trimmings and food scraps in one half and all other recyclables in the second half. If you are one of the residents selected to participate in the test programs, you will receive notification prior to the beginning of the programs. And if you can't wait to start composting, we still have a limited number of composting bins available at Cole Hardware for only $19.50 (they normally retail for more than $90). You can also attend a free composting workshop on Saturday, Feb. 28 at 10 a.m. at the Garden for the Environment, 7th Avenue and Lawton. Call the San Francisco League of Urban Gardeners at 285-7584 for more information. Other 1997 recycling highlights included:
Looking ahead, we're planning special promotional campaigns this year for a number of neighborhoods, including Chinatown, the Marina, North Beach, Richmond, Russian Hill, Sunset and Telegraph Hill. Two new materials will be added to the curbside program in April. Finally, all of our efforts are helped tremendously by volunteers. If you are interested in helping recycling in a hands-on way, give us a call at 554-3404. Food Allergy Myths and Realities Do you, or someone you know, shun certain foods because you are "allergic?" Surveys show that nearly one-third of all adults believe they have a food allergy. The following seeks to shed light on such frequently asked questions as: What is a food allergy? How do you know if you have one? What should you do if you have a food allergy? And, if it is not a food allergy, what might it be? Myth: Lots of people have food allergies. Reality: "From talking with the public, you might think almost everyone has a food allergy," said Daryl Altman, M.D., Fellow of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology and researcher at the Allergy Information Services in Long Island, New York. "In surveys, nearly one-in-three American adults indicated he or she was allergic to some food." But in reality, the most conservative estimates indicate two percent of the population in the United States are food allergic. Children are more susceptible than adults to food allergy--up to five percent have some type of food allergy. However, common allergens such as eggs and milk are typically outgrown by age five. The eight most common food allergens in people are: peanuts, tree nuts (for example, almonds, pecans and walnuts), dairy, soy, wheat, eggs, fish and shellfish (for example, shrimp and crab). Nevertheless, allergies to nearly 175 different types of food have been documented. "These foods are responsible for over 90 percent of serious allergic reactions to food," stated Susan L. Hefle, Ph.D., co-director of the Food Allergy Research and resource Program at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Myth: A food allergy means I'll just get a runny nose, right? Reality: No--although food allergy is rare, it is a serious condition and should be diagnosed by a board certified allergist. Food allergy is a reaction of the body's immune system to a certain component, usually a protein, in a food or ingredient. The reactions can be uncomfortable and mild, including vomiting, diarrhea, skin rashes or runny nose, sneezing, coughing and wheezing, and may occur within hours or days after eating. However, anaphylaxis, a more serious and life threatening reaction, may occur. Anaphylaxis is a rapidly occurring reaction that often involves hives and swelling. enlarging of the larynx with a choking sensation, wheezing, severe vomiting, diarrhea and even shock. These symptoms can also occur within minutes, hours or days. "Food allergic patients should have an anaphylaxis reaction plan worked out ahead of time with their allergist," according to Anne Munoz-Furlong, president and founder of The Food Allergy Network. "The plan should be practiced with family and friends in case of an emergency." Myth: Any negative reaction to a food is a food allergy. Reality: Adverse reactions to food can have many causes. If something does not "agree with you," it does not necessarily mean you are allergic to it. Food allergy is a very specific reaction involving the immune system of the body, and it is important to distinguish food allergy from other food sensitivities. Whereas food allergies are rare, food intolerances, which are the other classification of food sensitivities, are more common. Intolerances are reactions to foods or ingredients that do not involve the body's immune system. Intolerance reactions are generally localized, transient and rarely life threatening with one possible exception--sulfite sensitivity. "A good example of food intolerance is lactose intolerance. And, it is extremely important to know the difference between it and milk allergy," said Robert K. Bush, M.D., University of Wisconsin. He emphasized that "Whereas lactose intolerance may result in a bloated feeling or flatulence after consuming milk or dairy products, milk allergy can have life-threatening consequences. The milk allergic patient must avoid all milk proteins." Myth: I think I'm allergic to food--I just won't eat it, so I don't need to be seen by a doctor. Reality: Just thinking you are allergic to a food does not mean you have an allergy. To properly diagnose a food allergy or sensitivity, the offending substance must be accurately identified. Avoiding a food may deprive you of food choices and important nutrients, and could be dangerous if the allergen is actually different. Diagnosis of a food allergy can be complex, with three major components. The first and most important is involving a board-certified allergist, preferably a food allergy specialist. Second, a history of a specific food causing an allergic reaction is necessary; a food diary can help. Third, an IgE antibodies test, is only used when combined with the former components, but it does not always pinpoint a food allergy. Hugh Sampson, M.D., director, Food Allergy Clinic, Mt. Sinai Medical Center, and chair of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology's Adverse Reactions to Foods Committee, emphasized an examination by a board-certified allergist: "Due to many people claiming to have food allergies, many physicians have become desensitized to taking their symptoms seriously." Myth: I don't frequently eat food I'm allergic to, so I can eat a little bit for a special occasion. Reality: Because food allergy can be life threatening, the allergen must be completely avoided--even the most minute amounts. Although an extreme case, a man allergic to a shellfish died of anaphylaxis shock after encountering simply the steam from shrimp. It can be fatal to assume a given food environment is safe and not be cautious. A board-certified allergist can help the food allergic patient manage diet issues without sacrificing nutrition or pleasure when eating at or away from home. Since most life threatening, and sometimes fatal, allergic reactions to foods occur when eating away from home, it is imperative that the food allergic individual or responsible guardian clearly explain the risks of exposure to a certain food or ingredient to food service workers, family and friends--and always ask before eating. Myth: With all the ingredients in processed food, I can never completely avoid my allergen. Reality: When purchasing groceries
labels should be read for every product purchased--every time. Although
food and beverage manufacturers are often improving and changing their
products, changes in ingredients must be listed on ingredient labels.
Myth: Since I'm allergic to peanuts, I can't eat anything with peanut oil. Reality: There are many misunderstandings regarding what might stimulate the food allergic reaction. "Virtually all food allergens are proteins," explained Steve L. Taylor, Ph.D., co-director of the Food Allergy Research and Resource Program at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. "And the process of refining oil removes the protein which would trigger an allergic reaction." Oils used in processed foods and in cosmetics are highly refined and should pose no problem for the food allergic individual Yet, caution should be taken with natural, cold pressed or flavored oils. These oils, as well as oil that has been used to cook peanuts (or another food to which an individual might have an allergy), might contain the protein of the allergen and should be avoided. For example, an individual with a fish allergy should ensure that the oil used to cook his or her food was not first used to fry fish. Myth: I'm allergic to food additives. Reality: Other common misconceptions regarding food allergy are additives and preservatives. Although some--sulfites and tartrazine--have been shown to trigger asthma or hives in certain people, these reactions do not follow the same pathway observed with food. There are other food additives that have historically been associated with adverse reactions, but because they do not contain proteins or involve the immune system, true allergic pathways cannot be used to explain the reported reactions. In addition, many of these additives, including monosodium glutamate, aspartame and most food dyes have been studied extensively, and the results show little scientific evidence exists to suggest they cause any reaction at all. Myth: "Tell me about my corn allergy." Reality: There are those suspected food allergies that are so rare that their existence is questioned. The most common of these are corn and chocolate "allergy," and there are several probable explanations for adverse reactions. Even though many people claim to be allergic to them, allergists can rarely demonstrate allergy to corn or chocolate in double-blind, placebo-controlled food challenges. Corn "allergy" is often associated with a reaction to another allergenic substance. In some cases soy allergic individuals may react to products containing corn. Occasionally corn is carried, handled or stored in the same containers used for soy. Although only minute residues of soy may remain, this can be enough to cause an allergic reaction in highly sensitive people. Chocolate "allergy" is also thought to be extremely rare, and though some are truly chocolate-allergic, most who complain of symptoms have irreproducible reactions. Possibly the reactions are due to another ingredient found in the chocolate product being consumed. Food allergy is certainly nothing to be taken lightly. Although its prevalence appears to be increasing, overreaction, self-diagnosis and incorrect assumptions only lead to skepticism of physicians and food service workers--obviously, a less-than-ideal situation for the truly allergic individual. It is vitally important to leave the diagnosis of a food allergy to a board-certified allergist. The following organizations can help you more fully understand food allergy: The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (1-800-822-2762; www.aaaai.org) and the Food Allergy Network (1-800-929-4040; www.aaaai.org). The International Food Information Council Foundation (http://ifcinfo,health.org) can provide further information on food allergy and food and asthma. Also available is a food allergy poster designed for food service workers. What is an Allergic
Reaction?
The Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled
Food Challenge
What is Sulfite Sensitivity?
Avoid Cross Contact!
-International Food Information Council Seven Strategies to Even Better SAT Scores 1. Plan Ahead--Every Second Counts: Familiarize yourself with the directions on the SAT and its different sections. You may do this by going through sample tests. Each of the sections has a different structure, and once you learn how to best approach each type of question you will be in good shape. This familiarity will increase your confidence and comfort levels and (hopefully) reduce your anxiety because you will know what to expect. Remember that you only have a limited amount of time so you should make the most out of it. Don't get stuck on questions. When you don't know the answer make a notation next to it and you can return to it when you have more time. 2. Double Check Your Answer Sheet: A common problem during a test of such high importance is that you forget to make sure your answers are being recorded in the proper place. It is easy to get carried away and end up with one more answer than spots to fill. You should stop and double check your answers, making sure the problem numbers line up with the answers you have coded. Do not use your answer sheet to jot down any calculations, etc. this will only confuse things. You can, however, use your test booklet for scratch paper. You can pencil over math diagrams included in your test booklet and work out math problems in the booklet's margins. These notes will be useful when you go back and check your work. 3. Relax: Because you will know in advance what to expect on the SAT and its questions, you should be able to manage your anxiety level. The pressure, however, is still on. Remember that you are taking a hard test, and you should feel challenged. Keep in perspective that there are some very difficult questions that you may not be able to answer and that is okay. You can actually get a perfectly good score and not answer every question. give yourself credit for all the right choices you do make and encourage yourself to plunge ahead. Be fair to yourself. Don't scare yourself unnecessarily or negatively reinforce feelings of panic. Take a deep breath and keep your head level and your mind focused. There is work to be done! 4. Eliminate the Negatives: One strategy that you should definitely have in place is to eliminate the wrong answer choices as quickly as possible. Usually there will be at least two choices that you should be able to eliminate rather swiftly. This will help you to start narrowing your vision and honing in on the right answers. 5. Take Your Time: While it is important to take your time through all the sections, we especially like to make sure that you take your time with such math questions as the grid-ins. These questions require you to fill in the answers by hand and are not multiple choice. You should familiarize yourself with the grid-ins in advance of taking the test. We have found that if you start working too quickly you run the risk of making careless mistakes. Make sure that you are peering yourself and that you are checking your work so your answers make sense. If you pace yourself, you should be able to backtrack and catch any errors you may have made. 6. To Guess or Not to Guess: People have such mixed ideas about the prospect of guessing on the SAT. You receive one point for each question you answer correctly; 1/4 point is deducted for every question you answer incorrectly. What this means is that random, totally wild guessing is not a good idea. If you have absolutely no idea of the answer to a question, you should leave it blank. On the other hand, if you can eliminate some obviously wrong answer choices, thus narrowing the field to make an educated guess, then guessing is a wise move. The better the odds you can establish for yourself with any given question, the more advisable it is to guess. 7. Get a Good Night's Sleep: On the night before the big test, relax. Try and do something enjoyable. Get a good night's sleep so you are well rested. Have a leisurely breakfast and leave enough time so you won't be nervous about being late for the test.Bring lots of sharpened pencils to the test in case you need them. Try to find a seat in the room that has good light and is out of the way of drafts if you are not assigned a seat. Follow the instructions given by the test proctor. Remember, you have prepared for this. You'll do just fine! Reprinted by permission from the Buddy System, Kim Hartkley. All rights reserved. For more information about one-on-one SAT tutoring, contact Kim at The Buddy System at 648-3330. e-mail: buddysystem@msn.com, or check out the web site at www.buddysystem.com Eclipse Live at the Exploratorium A full solar eclipse will occur on a
path from the Galapagos Islands across Venezuela and the Caribbean islands
on Thursday, Feb. 26.
PALACE REMEMBERED
HUG-O'-WAR
Five Years Ago in the Grapevine FEBRUARY 1993 *A play depicting African American inventors was scheduled for Feb. 19 at Herz Playground followed by a fashion show featuring clothes worn from the 1920s through 1990s. *After moving from North Beach, Theresa Flores Sandoval reopened Il Fiore Flowers on Silver Avenue. *Monthly afternoon meetings of the Visitacion Valley Improvement Association resumed at the Community Center. *San Francisco Household Hazardous Waste Facility celebrated its fifth year of operation. Historic Proportions Match clues to answers. 1957 1. On Oct. 4, it's the world's
first man-made satellite.
A. Asian flu
Answers: 1-N; 2-M; 3-P; 4-G; 5-K; 6-O; 7-Q; 8-C; 9-E; 10-F; 11-B; 12-D; 13-J; 14-L; 15-R; 16-A; 17-I; 18-H. Sez Who? Match quotes to speakers. 1. "Is there anything more dangerous
than sympathetic understanding?"
A. George Bernard Shaw
Answers: 1-D; 2-G; 3-E; 4-F; 5-B; 6-I; 7-H; 8-A; 9-C. |