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

CLINTON COLUMN FOR JULY 4, 2002


It is hard to believe that it is July already. That means that summer is actually one-third over. At least, that is what it used to be when I was going to school. I hope that all of my readers are enjoying their summer. I am one of the people who likes it when the weather is hot; I put the top down on my car, turn on the a.c. to keep my feet cool, and drive on down the road. Next week, I will arrive at the big eight-o, and each day that goes by, I find it harder to believe that I have lived so long. Even with the Diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol, I find myself thanking God every day that I am able to do mostly everything I want to do. I may have to walk a little slower and take it easy up the steps, but I can still get around.


While I was a working girl, working for the government, I enjoyed the fun and camaraderie of the Federally Employed Women organization. So far as I know, they have not managed to make any changes in the working area, but they have spent a lot of time commiserating on the problems of their jobs. Visiting my old chapter recently was a lot of fun, and three of the also former chapter members, along with me, were part of a panel telling the folks who are still working what it's like after retirement. All of us are still working at something, although a lot of it is volunteer, so it is unpaid. If any of you has an organization that would like to hear our panel, let me know.


College Park Airport is the oldest working airport in the country and if you have never been there, there are tours of the airport and museum each day from 10 am to 5pm. Call 301-864-6029 (TTY) 301-864-4765.


Hillcrest Heights Library has a chess club for all ages that will be meeting at 7 pm on Monday, July 8. Call 301-630-4900. On July 10, Surratts-Clinton Library will have Special Summer Events for Kids with Mark Jaster, a mime, for ages 6-12 at 2pm. On July 11, Surrats-Clinton has Mother Goose on the Loose for newborns to 12 months old, with caregiver at 10:15am; 12-36 months with caregiver at 11am. Be sure to pick up your free ticket before the program. Call 301-868-9200.


Southern Maryland Hospital Center has come out with a lot of information about the myths that we have been hearing for a long time. For instance, if you think that chocolate, pizza, or French fries cause acne, think again. Studies show that there is no link between foods and the development of acne. However, if you already have it, and you notice that these foods cause it to flare up, you should stay away from them. There is no association between eating sugar and hyperactivity in children. Eating too much sugar does not cause diabetes, but if you have the disease, you need to control your sugar. Keep your eating habits on track by quenching thirst with water, skim milk, or fruit juice instead of soda, choose low sodium or no-salt varieties of canned soups and processed lean meats, minimize saturated fats by choosing fresh fruits and vegetables, skinless chicken, and lean meat. Olive oil is another good choice since it is low in saturated fat and may help lower heart disease risk. And, by the way, tub margarine is healthier than butter.


If you have an extra room or two, think about housing one to four AmeriCorps program volunteers from August 7 to June 13, 2003, while they assist with local disasters and homeland security efforts. Call 410-764-7000, ext. 4709 if you can help.


Calvert Conglomettes of Upper Marlboro is looking for lady bowlers of all skill levels for the fall season that begins in August. Call 301-599-2617 if you are interested.


Bethel House in Brandywine is offering the Helping hands training program with life, job preparation, computer and self-motivation skills, beginning July 8 for age 5 and older. To register, call 301-372-1700.


Anne Arundel Community College is offering a course on "Autobiography for Seniors" to write about their lives and family stories, on July 9 at 10 am at the college. There is a fee and to register, you should call 410-222-1927.


The Lady Hawks Motorcycle Club is still seeking items for its upcoming yard sale.  Proceeds will be used to purchase school supplies for a homeless shelter for children. Call 301-283-6266.


Woodcutter's rule No. 14: Never use a chain saw above shoulder level.

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.

2002 Archives: May 30, June 6, June 13, June 20, June 27

This web page is sponsored by Dowling Web Consulting & Training.

Back to the Brandywine, Maryland web site

Back to the Accokeek, Maryland web site