Norma Jean's Column for Southern Prince George's County

CLINTON COLUMN FOR JULY 24, 2003

Although I am glad that this type of surgery is possible, and that, in this day and age, it means that Cataracts will not take away my sight, I sure don't recommend it as a fun way to spend some time. My doctor, however, seems to be very happy with the results, and I am grateful for that. 

The National Cancer Institute estimates 40 to 50 percent of Americans who live to age 65 will have some type of skin cancer, but nearly all skin cancers are preventable if detected and treated early. Cancerous skin growths often go undetected because they are rarely painful. However, if they are ignored and grow, they can become a greater problem and spread, like any other cancer. Skin cancer is usually caused by exposure to ultra-violet sun rays. You may have a higher risk if you have light skin, a family history of melanoma, severe sunburn in childhood, a lot of sun exposure throughout your life, or many moles and freckles. It has now been shown that a high fat diet may also contribute to the risk for skin cancer, so it is necessary to include plenty of fruits and vegetables to provide antioxidants and other substances that help protect against skin cancer.

What to look for is a firm red lump, sometimes with bleeding or a crusty surface; a flat, red spot that is rough, dry, or scaly; a mole that has one half shaped differently from the other half; a growth with an irregular border and/or containing different colors that can include black, tan, blue ,white or red; or a growth that is larger than six millimeters (the size of a pencil eraser.

Check all skin surfaces monthly, and get screened by a doctor yearly. Most skin cancers appear after age 50, but the damaging effect of the skin begins at an early age. Avoid exposure to the sun between 10 am and 4 pm. Wear protective clothing, such as broad-brimmed hats and long sleeves, and use sunscreen lotion rated 30 or higher, even on ears and bald spots.

The American Cancer Society will hold its 22nd annual Celebration of Life Gala on August 7 from 7:30 to 1 pm. There will be dinner, dessert, an open bar, live music and dancing. Tickets cost less in advance. Call 410-257-735 or 301-855-8351, ext. 109/110.

Spirit Force All-star Competitive Cheerleading on Old Alexandria Ferry Road in Clinton is recruiting girls in grade K through three for its youth team. Experience is not necessary and there will be no tryouts. Call 301-868-8992 for more information.

Historic St. Mary's City is holding Tidewater Archaeology Days on July 26 and 27 from 10 am to 4 pm. Patrons can participate in activities, take guided tours, and view exhibits. Call 240-895-4990.

A bicycle nature tour is being offered at Patuxent River Park on July 26 at 9 am for age 8 and older. Participants should bring a mountain bike and helmet. There is a fee and reservations are required. Call 301-627-6074 (TTY) 301-699-2544.

Cedar Grove UMC in Deale is seeking crafters for its annual fall craft show and luncheon on November 22 from 10 am to 3 pm. Call 301-855-8701 for information.

The Prince George's Sports and Learning Complex in Landover is offering a gymnastics workshop on July 25 from 6:30 to 7:30 pm for ages 18 months to 18 years. Adults may accompany children, with a maximum of three children per adult. There is a fee and for more information, you should call 301-583-2400 (TTY) 301-583-2483.

The Pregnancy Center of Southern Maryland has opened a new office in St. Leonard. Summer hours are from 9 am to 5 pm on Tuesdays and 1 to 5 pm on Wednesdays. Call 410-326-6866 or 301-737-4604 for more information.

College Park Youth Services Center is offering popcorn and a G-rated movie for ages 6 to 12 on July 25 at 4 pm. For information, call 301-345-4425 (TTY) 301-445-4512.

Also, on July 25,the College Park Aviation Museum is screening "Kiki's Delivery Service" at 2 pm. Popcorn and lemonade will be provided. Call 301-864-6029 (TTY) 301-864-4765.

The Red Cross is seeking blood donors of all types. Call for blood drive locations and appointments to 410-535-5230 for Calvert County, 301-475-5705 for St. Mary's County, and 301-934-2066 for Charles County.

The Senior Programs at North Beach Community Center are looking for volunteers to teach senior classes, including French, Spanish, history, computer/Internet use and crafts, and make presentations on senior living and health. Call 410-257-2549.

On July 30 and 31, the National Wildlife Visitors Center at Patuxent Research Refuge is offering a camp for ages 5 to 7 to learn about beavers and their buddies. This is a free program but you need to make a reservation. Call301-497-5887

Never miss a good chance to shut up..

Norma Jean Fazenbaker's column can be found in the Clinton Gazette, Prince George's Post, Prince George's Sentinel, and the Enquirer Gazette. You can contact Norma Jean by email - click this link.

2003 Archives: Jan. 2, Jan. 9, Jan. 17, Jan. 23, Jan. 30, Feb. 6, Feb. 13, Feb. 20, Feb. 27, March 6, March 13, March 20, March 27, April 3, April 10, April 17, April 24, May 1, May 8, May 16, May 22, May 29, June 5, June 12, June 19, June 26, July 3, July 10

2002 Archives: May 30, June 6, June 13, June 20, June 27, July 4, July 11, July 18, July 25, Aug. 1, Aug. 8, Aug. 15, Aug. 22, Aug. 28, Sept. 5, Sept. 12, Sept. 18, Sept. 26, Oct. 3, Oct. 10, Oct. 17, Oct. 24, Oct. 31, Nov. 7, Nov. 14, Nov. 21, Nov. 28, Dec. 5, Dec. 12, Dec. 19, Dec. 26

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