Column

Q. Last year, I had more Tomato Hornworms than I’ve ever experienced in the past. I’ve been picking them off but is there another method of controlling them? Also, what, if anything, do they develop into?                                                                                             

A. The Tomato Hornworm is the larval stage of the Spink or Hummingbird moth. Their life cycle or metamorphosis has four stages. It begins with the adult female moth laying round, pale green, eggs on the leaves of the tomato. The eggs hatch into small, green, caterpillars with a structure or horn on its backside. In stage two. The worms grow very large, up to four inches long and have only one purpose and that is to eat, twenty-four/seven. Hence in a short period, they do lots of damage. They feed all summer long before they go into the pupa or third stage of their metamorphosis. In September, the pupa drops to the ground and pupae as a hard, brown shell, structure. This structure has a narrow tongue that sticks out, like the handle on a pitcher, so it’s easy to identify. While they are in the ground, they develop into the adult moth or fourth stage of their life cycle. In late May or early June, they emerge from the ground to start the cycle all over again. Besides hand picking them off the plants, there are several other environmentally friendly Hornworm controls. Because of the previous years’ problem, I first apply beneficial Nematodes to the soil to control the pupae now. This treatment isn’t always necessary. Beneficial Nematodes are tiny, worm-like critters that hunt, seek, and destroy soil pests including the Tomato Hornworm pupae and grubs but not earthworms. They are available at your favorite garden center along with the other beneficial insects like Ladybugs and Praying Mantis. The worms should start to appear in late June or early July, so be on the lookout for them. Early on, they are found toward the center of the plant. They’re located on the undersides of the leaves and are relatively small; I’d be looking for any leaves that have been chewed or have large holes and or black dropping around the base of the plants. Captain Jack Dead Bug Brew or Bacillus Thuringiensis, also known as BT, are two environmentally friendly pesticides that control the worms. You must make repeat applications about every three weeks as you can have multiple infestations during the Hornworm season. The adult moth will fly in from surrounding yards. BT is specific to worms and gives them a lethal case of stomach flu. The worms continue to feed for a while before they are stricken, so the damage continues. It’s suggested when you can wait several days for the control to start to work. Captain Jack Dead Bug Brew is a broader pesticide. It will kill on contact as well as by ingestion.  It is the preferred choice if you need an immediate control. I’d suggest you remove the worms until the population grows and then spray with Captain Jack Dead Bug Brew. 

Q. The yellow flowering Oxalis is a problem with my lawn this time of the year. My attempts at pulling/digging out the main roots seem only to have resulted in spreading more seeds. What should I use to get rid of it?

A. Oxalis is a pesky weed to control in turf. Unfortunately, manually removing Oxalis proves to be tedious and unsuccessful as it reproduces itself from seeds as well as underground rhizomes. There are many broadleaf herbicides available to control Oxalis. I’ve found that Turflon Ester from Monterey Lawn and Garden does the best job in controlling the Oxalis. It’s a liquid that’s applied with a tank sprayer. One application generally is sufficient to control the actively growing Oxalis, but a repeat application is necessary to kill off the newly germinated seedlings. This is a war of attrition that you win.                                             

Q. Is it okay to recycle old wine in the garden? We want to discard some old bottles. So far, we have hesitated for fear that it might not be a good thing.

A. With old wine, I’d pour it down the drain and not on your compost pile or around plants. Like a wine barrel, the pungent fragrance of the wine could last for an extended period. My horticultural concern is what if the wine has turned to vinegar. The increased acidity could be damaging. Hence, I see very little value in disposing of it in a garden. 

This special, Commemorative Issue of ALIVE, celebrating the 50th anniversary of what is arguably one of, if not the most, historic event in human history—the Apollo 11 lunar landing—is only the second one so designated in our fourteen-year history. The first Commemorative was our July 2009 issue celebrating the 40th Anniversary, and it wouldn’t be a longshot guess that the next Commemorative may be the 2029 edition, celebrating the 60th.

With all due respect to Mr. Musk and SpaceX, iPhones, Amazon, streaming videos, and Instagram, to my way of thinking, none of these “miracles” of modern technology and progress hold a candle to what was accomplished on July 20, 1969, when two American astronauts touched down on the surface of the Moon.    

Traveling nearly a quarter-million miles over four days, aided by technology with less computing power than a modern cell phone, Neil Armstrong, Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin, and Michael Collins, accomplished something transcendent of scientific advancement and historical exploration; their mission and journey captured the attention of the entire human race. As then President Nixon said to the astronauts as they stood on the lunar surface, “Because of what you have done, the heavens have become a part of man’s world. For one priceless moment in the whole history of man, all the people of this Earth are truly one.”

Since the earliest years of the American space program, I have always been a “space nerd.” I was only six when Alan Shepard became the first American in space (May 1961), but I followed that and every subsequent mission; watching TV, listening to the radio, and clipping articles out of newspapers and magazines.

While interest in the Apollo 11 mission was universal, little did I know at the time that my passion for all things “NASA” would be serendipitously-connected to my then future-wife-to-be, as her family was on the same track, closely following every milestone of space exploration. Soon after we started dating, I learned that Peggy’s older brother, Horton, was likewise devoted to all things “space,” insisting that the entire family follow all the missions, as he compiled an equally impressive collection of space-related paraphernalia.

Fifty years have passed since humans first set foot upon the lunar surface, and it’s been nearly forty-three since Peggy and I were married. Horton Newsom, Ph.D., went on to become a research scientist and is today one of the world’s foremost planetary-science experts, currently working as a team member on the Mars rover missions. While being married to a most incredible woman and being the father of a  wonderful son are the pinnacles of my life experience, as far as my interest in space travel is concerned, getting to know Hort has been awesome; having a close connection with him—along with having met and interviewed Buzz Aldrin— rank at the top of my space-related bucket list.       

As I reflect on the past 50 years, much has happened in the world—some of it difficult and even tragic—but I have found that, for me, the positive, unifying events are the ones that matter most. In the end, we all have choices. What we value, how we assess the past, and what we decide to focus upon in our life experience largely determines our path forward.  

So, as we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Apollo 11, let us recall and embrace the good and noble things, and use them to influence our way forward into the future.     

I definitely believe that it’s time to go back to basics at this point. There is so much national unrest and social angst that many of us just don’t know what to do or how to feel anymore. To use an Oprah catch phrase, “one thing that I know for sure” is that we are becoming a more unhealthy society as the result this turmoil. We are looking at our friends, co-workers and neighbors and even family with disdain and distrust because we don’t know if they believe what we believe, we don’t know if we’re on the same team or not.  Ultimately, we are FEARFUL because we don’t know if what someone else believes or wants is going to hurt us. Well, this is a good time to remember what FDR said during the financial depression of the 1930s, “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself!”

We are in the midst of a social and moral depression. Our triumph out of this state is to understand that WE ARE ALL ON THE SAME TEAM. We are Americans. We are strong people who have fought for liberty, freedom, independence and self-governance in many ways, many times over the centuries of this nation’s history. We have a constitution that was written to protect us from historical misdeeds repeating themselves and to guide us away from future misdeeds of the ever present threats of avarice, greed and tyranny. You don’t have to be religious to believe in the forces of Good and Evil. Everyday conflicts are examples of such. For example, to lie or tell the truth is a relatively straight forward concept until one considers the personal repercussions. If someone is inclined to be self-serving they may choose to lie. If someone believes that the truth is worth telling despite any personal repercussion because the truth makes way for the good of more people, they may choose to be honest.  “Honesty is the best policy” and “The truth will set you free” are well known idioms because they are consistently proven to be just.

As a child, I was taught that if I worked hard enough I could achieve anything I wanted. I understood that if I sacrificed now, I would be rewarded later. If I studied hard, made smart decisions, stayed out of trouble, eventually I would reap the rewards.  I was told not to worry about what anyone else did or had; that if I did the right thing and conducted myself in the right way, I would prosper. Essentially, I was being taught the virtues of Capitalism.

Unfortunately, the kind of capitalism that is choking this country now is a different concept. Today’s capitalism is about making money off of the hard work of others and taking advantage of as many people as possible for financial gain. Prime examples of this are the pharmaceutical and insurance industries. When there is a big discrepancy between the money you make relative to the value of the services you provide, you are creating negative balance and ill will.  This is an illness of good business.  This is making our country sick. This is creating increased economic disparity.  When you take advantage of other people they lose the ability to advance financially. If someone suffers too many economic “attacks” they can’t recover. They end up contracting instead of expanding their financial opportunities.  When people are fighting for basic necessities, they become desperate. Desperate people become dangerous.

It is time for us Americans to fight together again for a better future. The people who have excess wealth need to help the people who have not even basic healthcare and living conditions. The people who are free need to help the people who are struggling against oppressors. The people who are kind need to challenge those who are unkind. Considering the technological advances and economic opportunities that have occurred over the past 34 years, we have too many poor people and too few wealthy people. I don’t believe that Socialism is a good term, but I do believe that we need to consider a type of “National Security” or “Citizen Assistance” program, that would help all Americans enjoy a basic level of healthcare, standard of living and quality of life.  I don’t envision such a program as a replacement for private insurance. Private insurance would be a premium level of healthcare that would be purchased at will and coverage would be more comprehensive than a government subsidized one.

There isn’t any better investment than in our own people. Hopefully after a period of time, there would be no more need for such a system or it would be utilized by a significantly smaller number of individuals as our people and our country regained their strength. The United States of America has been known as the greatest country; the land of the free and opportunity for all; let’s prove it again.

The condition known as Sciatica is one of the most common conditions we treat at Align Healing Center. Some of the typical symptoms of Sciatica are sharp pain in the low back and/or buttocks accompanied by numbness, tingling, aching or burning down the back of the leg. In severe circumstances, weakness in the leg may also be seen.

The Sciatic Nerve is large and travels down the back of the leg to the foot. The nerve is buried deep within the muscles of the buttock and leg making it difficult to treat with common physical therapy methods. The Sciatic Nerve is composed of several smaller nerves and originates from the low back. It passes under the piriformis muscle (underneath the main buttock muscles) on its way down the leg. Irritation of the Sciatic Nerve at any point along its path is commonly known as Sciatica.

Understanding Sciatica

Let’s talk about nerves for a moment. Nerves are the electrical wiring of the human body. They carry the signals that allow us to move, feel, digest, detoxify, respond to our environment, and so much more. Plain and simple, if the nerves do not work the body will not work. That said, it is important to understand that unlike other tissues, the primary blood supply to nerve tissue is actually located within the nerve itself. So, if a nerve becomes impinged or compromised, so does the blood supply to that nerve. Without the proper blood supply, the nerve does not receive the energy and nutrition that are needed for the nerve to heal itself. Over time neural impingement leads to a painful chronic condition called Neuropathy. The definition of neuropathy is a disease or injury affecting nerve cells. The common symptoms of Neuropathy include sharp pain, burning, muscular weakness, numbness or tingling either at the site of the nerve injury or wherever the nerve travels. The condition known as Sciatica is a form of Neuropathy that specifically affects the Sciatic Nerve.

What can I do to relieve my Sciatica without drugs or surgery?

Since 1999 Align Healing Center has been offering many different modalities to heal Sciatica. We have found that a combination of Class IV laser therapy and spinal decompression offer outstanding results in healing stubborn Sciatica. Class IV Laser Therapy allows the practitioner to stimulate healing within the damaged tissue by delivering the necessary energy directly to the injured area. This creates an optimal healing environment that reduces pain and inflammation, swelling, muscle spasms and stiffness. In addition to laser therapy we implement spinal decompression to restore spinal disc health. Decompression works by gently stretching the spine, creating a vacuum effect which can restore disc height and even reduce the severity of bulging disc conditions associated with chronic pain and neurological symptoms.

We have found laser and decompression therapy to be most beneficial for patients with pinched nerves, arthritis, herniated discs, and degenerative disc disease. This unique combination of non-invasive therapy offers a chance for realizing a permanent cure. The treatment is finite and typically lasts for about a month. This eliminates the long-term care commitment forced upon patients by other symptomatic sciatica treatments. With proper care and rehabilitation of your spine and nervous system you can be back to your healthy self quickly!

Dr. Niele Maimone, DC of Align Healing Center in Danville, California has been active in natural health & wellness since 1999. For more information or to set up a consult call 925.362.8283 or visit www.alignhealingcenter.com.

This month’s Investor’s Edge column begins where last month’s ends…with the second part of a six-part series. The series is about the six steps of the financial planning process. The make-up of a comprehensive financial plan includes six elements. “Insurance planning and risk management” is the second element of the process (see part 1, “Financial statement preparation and analysis” here). My hope is that from this six-part series, you will gain a greater understanding of and appreciation for the financial planning process. The process, by definition, is never-ending as life-long monitoring is required to ensure a successful plan. It can serve you beyond your lifetime, continuing throughout the lives of your beneficiaries.

Only a select group of planners have met the rigorous education, examination, experience and ethics requirements set forth by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, necessary to be a Certified Financial Planner™ professional (CFP^®). For me, I recall this part, Insurance planning and risk management, as the most robust and far-reaching element of my studies of the financial planning process. Your life, assets and financial arrangements can be equally complex. Planning for preserving and passing on your estate is far from simple.

As you know in life, the only thing certain is that life is uncertain. There are many risks and uncertainties that can occur to disrupt your well-being and financial security at any time. Only proper prior planning can minimize, NOT AVOID, unexpected life events. Not fun to think about, but death, disability, or other potential hardships are necessary considerations in your financial plan and essential to the success of the process. Assessing and attempting to minimize and manage the risks associated with life’s unwanted surprises, or even the inevitable events, is a critical success factor to ensure that you and your loved ones can live desired lifestyles. Below are just a few common considerations to help with the notion of insurance planning and risk management as they relate to financial planning.

Life Insurance:  This is an important component of financial planning. With prudent counsel, you can ensure you have enough insurance coverage to care for your loved ones should an unexpected tragedy occur, or just to efficiently pass on your estate at the time of your eventual demise. As much as everyone’s circumstances, and needs and desires are different, life insurance is not needed by everyone. Still, it’s an important factor to consider within your overall financial plan. The coverage delivers the opposite of my investment tenet, Don’t risk a lot to gain a little.  I view life insurance as returning a lot for spending a little.

Long Term Care:  Long Term Care (LTC) insurance coverage plans are now widely accepted as a helpful financial planning product. LTC, though, has various features and benefits that come with a cost and confusion. With people living longer, and in many cases with medical complications that require a high level of medical attention, LTC insurance is gaining in appeal to offset soaring healthcare costs. These costs must come out of pocket if you’re not prepared (insured). In many families, being “self-insured” is an intentional choice. Others find this insurance planning technique is key to managing the risk of estate assets being eroded by costly long-term medical care needs.

College Funding:  Americans are facing a mountain of debt with over $1.4 trillion in student loans. Why?  Because college is expensive! And, it’s getting more so every year. I know; with one kid in college in Hawaii and another getting an education abroad, it’s “heigh-ho, heigh-ho, it’s off to work I go.” Educational costs are rising at an alarming rate. The CollegeBoard in its recent, Trends in College Pricing, published many helpful stats and insights. It showed that between 2007-08 and 2017-18, in-state tuition and fees at public four-year institutions increased at an average rate of 3.2% per year beyond inflation. If you have kids or are planning on going back to college yourself, then you need to plan to finance it. Borrowing a little is okay, but student loans should not be the solution to planning for college costs.

Market Risk:  Simply put, this is the risk of losses in investments arising from movements in market prices. The foundation of my investment philosophy is soundly built on two convictions: Investing is a process, and two, a disciplined approach is required to manage risk and succeed in the investment process.  Hence, Investing is a process that must be based on a disciplined approach to manage risk.  The “risk” referred to here is market risk. “Black Monday,” the “Dot-com Bubble,” the 2008 “Worldwide Financial Crisis,”—these are just the biggest market crashes since 1987. As you know, there were many before that. And, you can bet there are more to come. In my 35 years I have learned all too well what market risk means, and how to handle it. Understanding how what’s happening in the world can impact your portfolio over the short, medium, and long terms, is critical to the success of your investing efforts and your overall financial plan. Risk management is present and visible daily with respect to market risk. Investing is difficult and often an emotional experience. Ultimately, emotions lead to poor decision making. The third of my top ten investment tenets is “Control Emotions.” Achieving long-term investing success, requires a high “EQ” (“Emotional Intelligence”). Greed and fear (and other emotions) have no place in the investment decision making process. Instead, sensible strategies intended to minimize market risk is essential to the financial planning process.

Death:  Does anyone like this subject?  Probably not. I don’t think even my estate planning friends who talk to people every day about planning for their eventual death “like” the topic. Your financial plan, though, cannot ignore your death. A proper plan takes advantage of techniques and strategies that can not only benefit you now, while alive, but provide you post mortem control over your estate and allow you to provide for your beneficiaries for generations to come. Estate tax just sounds better than what it really is. It’s really death tax. The estate tax you pay, those taxes paid based on and from what you have when you die, can be minimized… unless you don’t plan for your death in your financial plan. Estate planning professionals can help you get your affairs organized so that your financial plan is structured to pass to your beneficiaries seamlessly as you wish at your death as if you were still alive.

I hope part 2 of the financial planning process was helpful. Look for part three: “Investment Planning,” in ALIVE Magazine’s July issue.

Hello June! Each season, each year trends come and go. Sometimes they stick around for a couple years. Sometimes they’re new to the scene. This year there are definitely a couple to return that I am so excited about!

Straw is quintessential during the summer months and it’s back for more! Thank goodness… last year I missed the boat. This year I am hopping on. Has this ever happened to you? You love a trend, but decide to skip it, only to change your mind—and then it’s too late? The ship has sailed. This summer there are so many fun trends and I hope this helps you decide to take part. Whether you’re in it to save or ready to splurge it’s quite easy to find accommodating price points.

This summer we’re seeing paper bag waist shorts, platform sandals, sweater tanks, straw bags, and even straw earrings—all super great individual pieces that, if paired together, would make one awesome summer get up!

Sweater tanks are a great way to get some dimension from an otherwise simple tank top. It dresses things up! Love how the texture of the fabric enriches the feel of an outfit. Splurge and go for the $88 tank or save a bit and snag the $59 option.

Paperbag shorts are amazing! They have great coverage, a fun feminine ruffle waistline and come in varying colors, fabrics, and patterns. A classic denim is a great place to start if you’re on the fence about this trend. Pair with the sweater tank tucked in and you’ve got great start for a complete summer look. Snag the $179 pair or save and spend $60

Straw bags definitely get ya’ ready for those summer vibes! I love how a quick switch out of a bag can completely transform an outfit. It really is all about the finishing touches. While yes, this means investing in different purses; it doesn’t have to mean it breaks the bank. There are great options that start at reasonable prices. Splurge and buy the $189 option or save and purchase the $40 bag.

Let’s keep going with finishing touches. A pair of flip flops would be a good casual option for a summer look. The exact same outfit can be taken to the next level with a pair of platform sandals. These babies are hot, hot, hot this summer! Not only are they super cute; they’re super comfortable. These awesome shoes add height while maintaining comfort. Colors range from classic neutrals to bold bright hues and prints. Whatever your heart desires can pretty much be found. Splurge and snag a pair for $159 or save and go for the $49 pair.

The last summer trend we’re covering is straw statement earrings. They are the best neutral which makes for awesome versatility. Wear these pretties with a tank and shorts or opt for a dress and heels. The options are endless! You know you’ll get the best bang for your buck with a purchase like this. Opt to splurge and spend $44 or save and snag the $9 pair.

What are your thoughts? Ready to take part in the Summer trends? Stop by maccarose.com to share and shop these pieces.

Thanks for reading dear ones!

The farmers’ market is a hive of activity this month, brimming with truckloads of seasonal vegetables like early vine-ripened tomatoes, corn, and crunchy little cucumbers. There is a splendid variety of juicy stone fruits—most notably short-seasoned apricots and cherries—along with peaches, nectarines and plums. You’ll also see a plump profusion of cantaloupe and other fragrant melons, but it’s the kaleidoscope of jewel-like berries that usually stops us in our tracks…with locally-grown strawberries snagging the most attention.

It’s time to treat yourself and a few friends to that all-American favorite, strawberry shortcake. But forget those spongey little cakes sold at the supermarket; this recipe increases the decadence factor by layering the lusciousness between a tender chocolate biscuit.

This very special dessert comes together easily when you prepare the three simple components earlier in the day. It’s a show-stopper—and farm-fresh berries deserve no less!

STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKES

with Chocolate-Buttermilk Biscuits and Make-Ahead Whipped Cream

2 pint-size baskets farm-fresh strawberries, hulled, and halved or quartered if large

1 to 1 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar, to taste

1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

1 cup heavy (whipping) cream

2 to 3 tablespoons confectioners’ (powdered) sugar, to taste, plus extra for garnish

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup crème fraiche or sour cream

4 Chocolate-Buttermilk Biscuits (recipe follows)

1. For the berries: In a large bowl, combine the strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Stir to mix, coarsely mashing about 1/4 of the berries with the back of a spoon. Let stand 15 minutes to dissolve the sugar.

• For the Make-Ahead Whipped Cream: In a large bowl, beat together the cream, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla with a hand-held electric mixer on Low speed until slightly thickened. Increase the speed to Medium-High and beat until fluffy, stopping just before the cream is firm enough to hold soft peaks. Beat in the crème fraîche. (If made in advance, cover and refrigerate for up to 1 day. Just before serving, whisk again briefly to aerate the mixture.)

• To assemble, just before serving use a serrated knife to carefully split the biscuits in half. Place bottoms on 4 dessert plates. Top each with a large spoonful of berries and a heaping 1/4 cup whipped cream. Cover with the biscuit tops. Dollop the remaining whipped cream over the shortcakes and top with the remaining berries. Dust with powdered sugar. Serve at once. Serves 4.

CHOCOLATE-BUTTERMILK BISCUITS

6 tablespoons buttermilk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/4 cup unsweetened Dutch-process cocoa powder

1/4 cup granulated sugar, plus about 1 1/2 tablespoons for sprinkling

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt

4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut up

1/4 cup finely chopped or grated semisweet chocolate

1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Combine the buttermilk and vanilla in a measuring cup. In a food processor, combine the flour, cocoa, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, the baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Process briefly to blend. Add the butter. Process, pulsing the machine on and off, until the dough resembles coarse meal. With the machine running, add the buttermilk and vanilla mixture in a steady stream, processing just until incorporated. Add the chocolate and pulse 2 or 3 times to incorporate.

• Scrape the dough onto a lightly floured work surface. Knead a few times until smooth. Roll or pat out the dough 1-inch thick. Using a 2 1/2-inch biscuit cutter dipped in flour, cut out 4 biscuits.

• Arrange the biscuits 2 inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet. (If desired, use a dry pastry brush to remove excess flour from biscuits.) Sprinkle with the reserved sugar. Bake until the tops appear dry and spring back when lightly touched, about 15 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool. Serve slightly warm or at room temperature. Makes 4. These are best served the same day they are made.

Berry Good Things to Know

A shiny berry is a fresh berry. Once picked, strawberries lose their natural sheen in a matter of days.

Locally-grown berries are inevitably more flavorful and juicy than varieties grown to withstand shipping.

Fresh green caps, intense perfume, and vibrant, uniform color are other qualities to look for in strawberries. Avoid those “white shoulders” that mean the berries were picked before their prime. Also remember that bigger is not always better!

When stored properly, farm-fresh strawberries can last up to 1 week in the refrigerator. Here’s the secret: Line a plastic container with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. Gently pile in the unwashed strawberries with their green caps intact. Top with another paper towel, seal with an airtight lid, and store in the lowest part of the refrigerator. 

Do not rinse strawberries or remove their green caps until just before using.  Rinsing berries removes their naturally protective outer layer; and their caps prevent water from soaking into the strawberries, diluting the flavor and altering their texture.

To clean strawberries, place in a colander or large sieve and rinse quickly under a gentle spray of cold water. Pat dry with towels; then remove the green caps, if desired.

To hull strawberries (i.e., remove the green caps), use the sharp tip of a paring knife; the pointed end of a swivel-bladed vegetable peeler; or a strawberry huller—an inexpensive tweezer-like gadget available at most cookware shops. This removes not only the leafy green cap, but also the tough little core beneath it.

For best flavor, eat strawberries at cool room temperature.

1 cup of halved raw strawberries weighs in at around 49 calories. They also contain 12 grams carbohydrate and 3 grams fiber, resulting in 9 grams of net carbs. Strawberries are a good source of vitamin C, and also contain potassium, iron, and folic acid.

The Danville Certified Farmers’ Market, located at Railroad & Prospect, is open every Saturday, rain or shine, from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. For specific crop information call the Pacific Coast Farmers’ Market Association at 1-800-949-FARM, or visit their web site at www.pcfma.org. This market is made possible through the generous support of the Town of Danville. Please show your appreciation by patronizing the many fine shops and restaurants located in downtown Danville. Buy fresh. Buy local. Live well!

Tired of finding your mailbox, inbox, and voicemail full of unwanted credit card offers, insurance solicitations, and coupons and catalogs from retail companies? Investing just a few minutes of your time will allow you to “JUST SAY NO” to junk mail and pesky offers.

There is nothing worse than coming home from a long day, opening your mailbox, and having to spend time sorting, recycling and shredding loads of unsolicited offers. Taking the time to make a quick call, submit an online request, or mail a letter will not only significantly reduce the amount of time you spend sorting through the piles, but it will also reduce the temptation to spend and open new credit accounts. Here is the scoop.

Credit Card and Insurance Offers: Credit card and insurance companies purchase lists from the four Consumer Credit Reporting Companies (Equifax, Experian, Innovis, and TransUnion). These lists provide pertinent personal information about consumers which trigger the offers in your mailbox. However, under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, you have the option to “Opt-Out” and prevent Consumer Credit Reporting Companies from sharing your information for five years or permanently.

Simply phone 1-888-5-OPTOUT (1-888-567-8688) or visit www.optoutprescreen.com. You will be prompted to provide some personal information, including your home telephone number, name, address, and social security number. Having your name removed from credit card offers will remove the temptation to open new credit accounts and can help prevent identity theft. If you ever miss receiving these offers, you can “Opt-In” at any time by calling or visiting the website.

Junk Mail: The Direct Marketing Association has a mail preference service that allows you to reduce the amount of commercial advertising mail that you receive at home for five years. The quickest and most efficient way to remove your name from the “do not mail” list is to visit www.dmaconsumers.org. Click on the “Consumer Assistance” tab and then click on the “How to remove your name from mailing lists” tab. Fill out the required fields and pay the $5 fee (you can submit it online).

You can also print and mail the letter to the below address:

Direct Marketing Association, PO Box 643, Carmel, NY  10512

Please note, this service will not prevent companies that you do business with from mailing catalogs. For example, if you have a Macy’s card, Macy’s will continue to send catalogs on a regular basis. You will need to contact each retailer and request that they stop future mailings.

Email: If you provide your email address to any retailer you will get weekly or sometimes, daily emails from them prodding you with the latest seasonal items and sales. Stopping unwanted emails that come into your inbox will remove the temptation of clicking through, browsing, and then buying.

The Direct Marketing Association also has an Email Preference Service that allows you to opt-out of receiving unsolicited emails for five years. Visit www.dmaconsumers.org, click on the “Consumer Assistance” tab and then click on the “How to get your name off e-mail lists.” Or, you can unsubscribe to emails or report the emails as spam to reduce offers in your inbox.

Phone Offers: Another common tactic for soliciting consumers with tempting credit card offers are random calls on your cellular phone. Take the time to register your cellular phone number and your home phone number (if you still have one) by logging on to www.donotcall.gov. This is a free service that is offered by the Federal Trade Commission and helps reduce the number of calls.

Taking the time to “JUST SAY NO” and remove your personal information from these lists will significantly reduce the number of solicitations that you receive. It will also save you time, avoid the temptation to open costly new credit accounts, eliminate impulse buying and decrease the risk of identity theft. 

Jodee Brydges is the author of Digging Out: A Practical Guide to Getting Out of Debt and Paving a Path to a Secure Financial Future, available on Amazon.com.

“Even if you use only one good suggestion from this book (and this book is full of great ideas), it could save you thousands.” ~ Amazon 5-Star Review

For more information about Jodee, visit www.jodeebrydges.com.

I had a second home in Carmel for a while. For the locals there, Doris Day was a local too. That used to irritate me. Why? Because Carolyn Hastings had never even had a long distance sighting of the iconic Miss Day. Until, one day I had made a quick trip to the grocery store and as I was leaving, an old faded yellow Jeep Wagoneer came rumbling up and parked right by the front doors. A plainly dressed older heavyset, (yes, heavyset) woman hopped out and opened the back of the Jeep. A few minutes later a box boy, came out with a huge pallet of big bags, yup, dog food. I had finally gotten the Carmel owners reward: A Doris Day sighting! The box boy (I can’t believe we used to call them that), loaded the Jeep and away she went, home to her family. Did I ever see her again? Nope, but I didn’t need to; I was finally part of the “Carmel Insiders.”

We lost Doris Day a few days ago. I suppose we didn’t really lose her because I was at my local library yesterday, perusing the movie section as usual, and lo and behold, there she was in A Glass Bottom Boat. I snapped it up, checked it out and headed home to spend an evening with the girl next door, or so it seemed. I had forgotten how real she seemed whether playing a mermaid, a cowgirl or an interior designer. She always came off as just the girl next door.

Her career started as a Big Band singer. Then someone decided they needed an actress who could actually carry a tune, so she became an actress. She could do both and do them well. She made 39 films and spent five years as the star of, yes, The Doris Day Show on TV. Hundreds of her songs that most of you would remember, even if you didn’t remember who made them famous, were made a part of everyday life back in the 50s and 60s.

Doris was born, Doris Mary Anne von Kappelhoff in 1922—”Doris Day” to us and the rest of the world. She made movies that made people smile. She had charm, wit and spunk and her fans waited with baited-breath for her next new character; her next new film. I asked my brother and his wife what their favorite Doris movie is and they both immediately responded Calamity Jane. My brother is 80 and loves his westerns, of course, Doris as Calamity Jane would make him smile.

Several years ago a guy friend of mine and I had the privilege of spending a magical Valentine’s Day at the Paramount Theatre in Oakland. This magnificent old theater often shows Classic films. On this particular evening, the show was Pillow Talk with the legendary Rock Hudson and you guessed it, Doris Day. Rock and Doris, big screen, Valentine’s Day…unforgettable.

After some failed marriages and twenty years in Hollywood, Doris Mary Anne von Kappelhoff walked away. I take that back. Doris believed that we have seasons in our lives. You live them and move on. She had always been an animal lover, so in 1981, at forty-nine years old, she moved to Carmel, founded the Doris Day Animal Foundation and started a new season, “doing good” in the US and around the world. In 2004 President George W. Bush awarded her the Presidents Medal of Freedom.

At 97 years old, Doris Day, America’s Sweetheart, is gone, but certainly not forgotten. She inspired love, devotion and loyalty. Her countless fan websites are mourning for a woman who embodied more innocent times. Her family says, “There will be no funeral, memorial or grave marker.” Why?  Because she said so, she didn’t like death. But beyond a shadow of a doubt, we know she was here, a radiant icon of sunny, funny femininity. That was Doris Day.

Remember to look up at the stars and not down at your feet. ~ Stephen Hawking

Many people, from all walks of life, have illnesses, afflictions or handicaps that do not prevent them from achieving their goals and having successful careers. It is indeed inspiring that people with debilitating health problems can and do achieve greatness and overcome their adversities.

Many feel composers, musicians and music people in general, live in a different world than most of the population. Perhaps they think because musicians have a special talent or ability (some feel it is God-given) they are not like “main-stream” individuals. Regarding health issues, this is not the case at all.

Musicians and composers are merely a microcosm of society in general. They are subject to all the ailments that we mere mortals endure. Yes, some disorders are more common in musicians, but in general they suffer the same diseases and afflictions as the rest of the population.

Many composers and musicians, especially in years past, were basically unhealthy and prone to all kinds of physical and emotional stresses and debilitating illnesses. Given the heavy burden of coping with pain and distress, it is truly remarkable that they were able to create and compose great, magnificent music throughout their working careers. However, some afflictions developed near the end of their careers. This explains the volume of their work that was accomplished before their health problems became serious.

Health Problems: Some common physical problems musicians have are repetitive strain injuries; caused by doing the same physical movements repeatedly. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is one example. Tinnitus, and other hearing impairments, are common to musicians; probably caused by the constant level of sound they experience.

Respiratory disorders and mouth and teeth aliments are often present in wind instrument players; partially due to improper cleaning of the mouthpiece and the instrument. Musculoskeletal disorders and skin problems, among others, may contribute to career-ending disabilities. Overuse Syndrome may include Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJ), Bursitis, and Tendonitis. These can be caused by heavy practice, incorrect posture and lack of rest.

A study by R. Lucia entitled, Effects of Playing a Musical Wind Instrument in Asthmatic Teenagers reported that “Playing a wind instrument has the potential of being a long-term therapeutic agent for asthmatics.”

Brass instrument musicians often experience Tinnitus, ear aches, malocclusion, unrestful sleep, emotional and even psychic disorders. Percussion players are exposed to loud sounds that often leads to hearing loss.

 Prevention of these disorders can be accomplished by a comprehensive education plan reducing or eliminating the negative effects of these elements. If not checked they could lead to a shortened career or even worse, a shortened life!

Contemporary Musicians/Composers with Disabilities

Some blind musicians include Ray Charles, pianist/singer who became blind by age 7; Stevie  Wonder, pianist/singer was born blind; George Shearing, Jazz pianist, was born blind; Jose Feliciano, singer/guitarist was born blind; Sammy Davis Jr. singer/dancer/instrumentalist, became blind in one eye due to a car accident; and Andrea Bocelli, singer/song writer, became blind at age 12 due to an eye injury accident. Hearing impaired singers include Johnnie Ray; Michael Bolton, and Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys, to name just a few. Mel Tillis, the country music legend, stuttered; singer, Rosemary Clooney was bi-polar, and Cher is dyslexic. Violinist Izhak Perlman had polio.

Musicians/Composers from the Past

The deaths of J.S. Bach and George F. Handel drew the Baroque Period to a tumultuous close. Unfortunately, these two giants both went blind in their 60’s, late in their careers.         Blair Sanderson, wrote “The most famous disability in music history was the deafness of Ludwig Van Beethoven.” How devastating can it be for a musician to be deaf? Beethoven’s deafness started around 1796 and by 1824 he was totally deaf. He wrote the monumental 9th Symphony while deaf. Cause of his deafness was believed to be, his inner ears were malformed with lesions; of course, that is speculation. 

Beethoven said, “Yet it was impossible for me to say to people, speak louder, shout! for I am deaf! Oh, how could I possibly admit an infirmity, in the one sense, which ought to be more perfect in me than others, a sense which I possessed in the highest perfection, a perfection such as few in my profession enjoy or ever have enjoyed.”

Wolfgang Mozart contracted Rheumatic Fever in childhood. This may have contributed to illnesses, high blood pressure and stress. Two doctors may have contributed to his earl demise by blood-letting; a common practice in the 18^th century. The genius Mozart died at the age of 35. He still composed over 600 works, many while he was in ill health. Just think what his contributions would have been if he had lived a normal lifespan.

Depression

Among famous composers that suffered from this ailment were: Robert Schumann; Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky; Sergei Rachmaninov; Hector Berlioz; Mikhail Glinka; Anton Bruckner and Charles Ives. Many of these composers, although depressed, were able to continue in their careers successfully.

 Even the most invincible composers and musicians are subject to the vicissitude’s trials and tribulations of the common man. These men and others like them are examples of triumphs over their adversities.

Although he was not a musician, Stephen Hawking is an outstanding example of overcoming an incredible disability. Aworld-famous British physicist, he was one of the most beloved scientists in this generation.  Hawking was diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) at the age of 21. He became completely paralyzed and was confined to a motorized wheelchair. Hawking defied ALS for five decades before he died in 2018 at the age of 76. Normally, ALS takes most people’s life in two to three years. Even though his body was completely paralyzed, and the disease took away his voice; that did nothing to curb his contribution to science. He said, “If you are disabled, it is probably not your fault, but it is no good blaming the world or expecting it to take pity on you. One has to have a positive attitude and must make the best of the situation that one finds oneself in if one is physically disabled. One cannot afford to be psychologically disabled as well. However difficult life may seem, there is always something you can do and succeed at.”

Hopefully, his advice will be uplifting to all.

Please submit your questions and comments to banddirector01@comcast.netVisit our website at www.danvilleband.org for up-to-date information about the Danville Community Band.