Fair Elementary’s spring fundraiser will end on March 4th, 2013.
Parents please remember that no checks will be accepted for this
fundraiser; you may turn in cash or money orders. No late orders can
be accepted past March 4th! It is important that your child’s money
is turned in on or before this date; this helps to ensure a faster
delivery on our product and prizes. Thank you again for your
continuation of support!
Fair Elementary’s clothing closet is still in need of khaki pants
sizes 6-14. You can drop off your donation at the office at
anytime. Any and all donations are greatly appreciated and will be
put to good use.
On Monday, March 4th, 2013, Fair Elementary staff will be
working at McDonalds from 4 til 7 pm. Our staff members at Fair will
be helping greet people and working the windows. Please stop by
McDonalds from 4 to 7 pm and help support our school. McDonalds is
donating 20% of the proceeds collected from 4 to 7 pm to Fair
Elementary School. Please come by and show your support!
What is an allergy?
Allergies are an abnormal response of the immune system. People who
have allergies have an immune system that reacts to a usually
harmless substance in the environment. This substance (pollen, mold,
and animal dander, for example) is called an allergen. Allergies are
a very common problem, affecting at least two out of every 10 Americans.
What happens during an allergic reaction?
First, a person is exposed to an allergen by inhaling it, swallowing
it, or getting it on or under their skin. After a person is exposed
to the allergen, a series of events create the allergic reaction:
• The body starts to produce a specific type of antibody, called IgE,
to bind to the allergen.
• The antibodies attach to a form of blood cell called a mast cell.
Mast cells can be found in the airways, in the intestines, and
elsewhere. The presence of mast cells in the airways and GI tract
makes these areas more susceptible to allergen exposure.
• The allergens bind to the IgE, which is attached to the mast cell.
This causes the mast cells to release a variety of chemicals into the
blood. Histamine, the main chemical, causes most of the symptoms of
an allergic reaction.
What are the symptoms of an allergic reaction?
Common symptoms of an allergic reaction to inhaled or skin
• Itchy, watery eyes
• Itchy, runny nose
• Feeling tired or ill
• Hives (a rash with raised red patches)
Other exposures can cause different allergic reactions:
• Food Allergies. An allergic reaction to food allergens that can
also cause stomach cramps, vomiting, or diarrhea.
• Insect Stings. The allergic reaction to a sting from a bee or
other insects causes local swelling, redness, and pain.
The severity of an allergic reaction’s symptoms can vary widely:
• Mild symptoms may be almost unnoticeable, just making you feel a
• Moderate symptoms can make you feel ill, as if you have got a cold
or even the flu.
• Severe allergic reactions are extremely uncomfortable.
Most symptoms of an allergic reaction go away shortly after the
exposure stops. The most severe allergic reaction is called
anaphylaxis. In anaphylaxis, allergens cause a whole-body allergic
reaction that can include:
• Hives and itching all over (not just in the exposed area)
• Wheezing or shortness of breath
• Hoarseness or tightness in the throat
• Tingling in the hands, feet, lips, or scalp
Anaphylaxis is life-threatening and requires immediate medical
attention. Symptoms can progress rapidly, so head for the emergency
room if there is any suspicion of anaphylaxis.
Does everyone have allergies?
No, not everyone has allergies. People inherit a tendency to be
allergic, although not to any specific allergen. When one parent is
allergic, their child has a 50% chance of having allergies. That
risk can jump to 75% if both parents have allergies.
• March 4th – Money due for fundraiser
• March 11-15th – SPRING BREAK!!