Labor Day has been celebrated in this nation for almost 130 years.  The acknowledgment was originally enacted by the labor movement to honor workers.

Labor unions pushed for the first Labor Day.  The tribute took place on Tuesday, September 5, 1882 in New York City.  The following year, a similar reflection was held.  In 1884, the recognition moved to the first Monday in September.  Within time, Labor Day sentiment spread, and other regions began valuing the day.

What are some Labor Day particulars?  Here are a few.

• Peter McGuire, a secretary of the Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners and a co-founder of the American Federation of Labor, is thought to be the primary Labor Day originator.  Still, some people attribute the credit to the secretary of the International Association of Machinists, Matthew Maguire.
• Even though President Grover Cleveland was not a supporter of labor unions, he made Labor Day a national holiday.  President Cleveland perhaps did this because he was attempting to mend some degree of political ire.  Because of him, Labor Day is a federal holiday in all 50 states, Washington D.C., and the United States territories
• The first Labor Day festivities began within view of people with a street parade.  Following the parade, leisurely activities and merriment occurred.  Today, parades are an integral part of Labor Day celebrations, as are cookouts, commemoratory speeches, outings, and other pleasurable activities.
• A number of other countries observe their own variety of Labor Day.  Canada, England, China, and other nations pay some form of tribute to their workers.  In certain places, the day is also known as May Day and includes revelry that honors spring.

Today, many people view Labor Day has a time to celebrate all workers.  In fact, America has thrived because of the painstaking efforts of a diverse group of people.  From shoreline to shoreline and North to South, countless individuals have devoted their time, talents, and energy to make this nation strong.

Resveratrol is found in some plants, although many people associate the compound with red grapes or wine.

Several Asian countries have long used resveratrol to treat conditions like heart abnormalities and liver problems, but the United States is just beginning to take notice of its potentially favorable properties.

So what benefits are thought to be associated with resveratrol?

• Life Extender.  Well, most of the experiments involved rats, mice, and fish, although human research is also underway.  Nonetheless, some studies showed that supplementing with resveratrol extended animal life expectancy up to 30%.  The presumed reason?  It is believed to suppress the gene that controls aging.
• Antioxidant.  Another possible benefit to resveratrol is a strong antioxidant quality; antioxidants help combat free radicals.  That’s a good thing, because free radicals can lead to illness or disease.
• Alzheimer’s Buster? Okay, maybe it’s unlikely that resveratrol can eradicate Alzheimer’s disease, but it is theorized that individuals who take the supplement, particularly when coupled with vitamins A and C, may reduce the chance of contracting the neurological disorder.
• Inflammatory Suppressant.  Inflammation can lead to a medley of chronic conditions like joint problems, diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.  Resveratrol is thought to reduce inflammation in the body, thus diminishing the opportunity for illness.

It is also important to mention that resveratrol may help circumvent the effects of an otherwise imperfect diet.  Case in point?  Some European countries regularly consume high-fat meals consisting of butter, cream, etc., yet experience a lesser degree of obesity, heart disease and certain other dangerous conditions.  Why?  It’s believed that the resveratrol in red wine (certain Europeans love red wine in moderation) counteracts some effects of the rich food.

Is resveratrol the Fountain of Youth?  Probably not.  Have studies proven it will positively impact humans?  No, local research is still in the infancy stages.  Even so, some Harvard University scientists are quite impressed and believe the compound holds promise.

So, should you consider adding resveratrol to your daily intake?  Always check with your doctor before taking any new supplements.  Nevertheless, at least at this point, the picture does look good.

As we age, skin can lose moisture. Exfoliating and moisturizing softens the face allowing it to look younger, but what about rough hands or feet?  In truth, they are often overlooked.

What can be done to help restore vitality to these extremity body parts?  One promising option is paraffin wax treatments.

Paraffin wax treatments can be achieved in the comforts of your own home, making the therapy quite reasonable.  Paraffin wax, a sterile container, and plastic gloves/mitts are typically the items needed to begin.  Some people actually use a large casserole dish to place the melted wax, but finding the correct temperature might not be simple and could lead to injury.  Subsequently, if you decide to go the home route, paraffin home units may be the best option.

How much does a home paraffin wax unit cost?  Prices vary but tend to hover around the $150 to $175 range (although cheaper models can be found).  Perhaps this seems expensive, but keep in mind that each time you have a treatment, the cost becomes more affordable (particularly since spas charge about $80 to $100 every time you go!).

Are there other potential benefits to paraffin wax treatments besides softening?

Definitely!  Some people use the therapy for pain relief.  Since the wax is heated when applied to the hands and/or feet and then sealed by plastic gloves or mitts, toxins release through pores opened from the warmth, and muscle aches, inflammation, and other types of pain can ease.  Many individuals describe the experience as extremely relaxing!

Is everyone a candidate for paraffin wax treatments?  No, people with compromised circulation, nerve problems, fluid buildup, open cuts, or bleeding problems may not be suitable.  It is always important to check with your doctor before trying any new procedure.

What is paraffin wax made from?  It varies.  Waxes can be made from vegetable oil, palm oil, or even synthetics.

So, paraffin wax treatments help hands and feet (or even elbows) look softer and younger and may also diminish pain?  Wow, that sounds like something to investigate.

There are a number of resources available to seniors throughout the state, but sometimes it is nice to be afforded more local opportunities.

Why?  Because they tend to provide useful information concerning nearby events, the arts, elder assistance, and other senior-oriented topics.

So what are some local choices?  Here are a few.

• Elder Services of Worcester Area, Inc. This agency is located at 411 Chandler Street in Worcester.  It provides both direct support and referral services and assists with matters such as home care, protective services, elder care advisors, domestic programs, respite care for caregivers, Meals on Wheels, Senior Money Management, and much more.  Some programs are eligibility-based, and others are open to all seniors.
• Worcester Elder Affairs Division.  WEAD helps optimize services for seniors 60 and over.  The office, sited at 128 Providence Street, is largely financed by the City of Worcester, although other funding sources are received.  They are open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., but phone calls are taken until 5 p.m.  Services such as outreach, assessment, advocacy, assistance with applications for public benefits, referrals, and other aid is available.  The Senior Scoop Newsletter is put out by the Worcester Elder Affairs Division.
• Worcester Senior Center.  The Worcester Senior Center, located at 128 Providence Street, is operated under the umbrella of the Worcester Elder Affairs Division.  The center is a pleasing, friendly place where seniors and their families can enjoy an array of benefits.  It is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and concentrates on healthiness; subsequently, fitness and other health-oriented programs are encouraged.  In addition to wellness, the center offers multicultural events, assistance with taxes, guidance on health insurance, dining opportunities, games, a library room, periodic trips, courses on arts, crafts, and computers, and a gift shop.
• Central Massachusetts Agency on Aging. This organization is part of a network of agencies that helps seniors live independently at home.  It is a division of the Older Americans Act and is located at 360 West Boylston Street in West Boylston.  The agency provides needs assessment, support to caregivers, a lending library, and other helpful services.

Senior agencies are vital to people 60 and over because they focus on issues specific to their demographic.  If you or a senior loved one is in need of supportive services, perhaps one of the agencies listed above can help.

Many of us love to dine out.  After all, it’s kind of nice to have our food orders taken, water glasses continually filled, and meals graciously delivered.

Naturally, a number of us do not have the resources or desire to do this on a daily basis; nonetheless, it’s definitely a treat every now and then.

Well, if you are someone who enjoys restaurants, then the next two weeks are for you.

Why?  The Worcester Restaurant Week of 2010 is now being held August 2 until August 15.  Numerous restaurants are participating, and the cost, at least when you consider all the food you get, is excellent.

How much is it?  Well, for $22.10 per person (excluding tax and tip), here’s an example of a few of the 3-course offerings.

• Tweeds Pub.  Onion soup as a starter, flame-broiled steak served with potato and veggie, and grapenut pudding as a delectable ending.  (By the way, there are two other 3-course meals to choose from!).
• Sole Proprietor.  First course choices consist of green salad, jumbo shrimp cocktail, calamari, or California roll.  Entrees options are haddock, tuna (we’re not talking canned here), or grilled salmon.  And the finale?  Flourless chocolate cake, sundae, or chocolate cup.  Yummy!!!
• Via ItalianTable.  Beginnings?  Jumbo shrimp cocktail, goat cheese salad with asparagus, insalata mista, or calamari.  Second course?  Tuscan shrimp scampi, sirloin of beef, or chicken parm.  Sweet conclusion?  Gelato, cannoli, or panna cotta.
• 111 Chop House.  For starters, there’s a choice of lobster bisque, jumbo shrimp cocktail, or fried calamari.  The main event includes a selection of hanger steak with scallop stuffed jumbo shrimp, baked haddock with scallop stuffing, or ribeye steak.  Did we save the best for last?  Perhaps, especially if you enjoy fruit cobbler, chocolate tulip cup, or vanilla ice cream with cookie.

There are numerous dining facilities participating in Worcester Restaurant Week 2010 in addition to the options listed above.  Some others?  Aspara, Biagio’s Evo, Flying Rhino, Webster House, Viva Bene, Old Timer, Squire’s Val’s  (and many more!).

Dining out tends to brighten up many a face; after all, everyone has to eat.  For a more comprehensive listing concerning this “palatable” event, you may wish to log on to www.worcesterrestaurantweek.com.

Various scams have made their way into our society.  From bogus charities, to Nigerian rackets, to get-rich-quick schemes, criminals are at work to defraud people, organizations, and agencies of their money.

One such scam is health care fraud.  In certain instances, people do not see the money come directly from their wallets but instead Medicare is the victim.

How does it work?  Well, seniors might be charged for services that never took place, or patients may unwittingly receive unnecessary procedures.  Either way, Medicare is deceived

There are also instances where health care scams directly affect a senior’s resources.  One such example is where patients are manipulated in to believing they need products they may not.  Medicare might not cover the items; therefore, individuals pay out of their own pockets.

So what can seniors do to protect themselves?  Here are a few ideas.

1. Don’t be bullied in to buying pricey products unless your doctor agrees that you need the item/s.
2. Never give out personal information (Medicare insurer number, SS#, etc.) unless you are certain the person you are talking to is a legitimate health care provider (even then, it is preferable to provide the information in person).
3. Always review medical bills to ensure they are accurate and that no erroneous charges are included.
4. Only let authorized medical professionals have access to your medical records.
5. Try to keep accurate records (maybe in a notebook) concerning all medical procedures, appointments, medications, and bills (in the event something questionable should pop up).
6. Be suspect of anyone who tries to make you believe that a service or product is not covered under Medicare but “not to worry” because the caller or representative knows strategic ways to get around it.

Unfortunately, scams abound, and a number of them involve health care.  A newer con that recently surfaced centered on Medicare’s prescription drug rebate program.  Some seniors received a call from swindlers pretending to be Medicare employees.  The fraudsters alleged they needed personal information before the recipients could receive their checks.  Medicare characteristically does not call and ask for this type of data, so never give out private information over the phone.

Whether it is unscrupulous people bilking the system or heartless swindlers targeting seniors, Medicare scams are a reality.  Should you have questions concerning Medicare fraud, the hotline 1-800-447-8477 or the Web site www.medicare.gov (Reporting Medicare Fraud section) might have some answers.

Many active seniors volunteer their time in one way or another.  Why?  Because they feel rewarded when they engage in acts of goodwill toward others; after all, volunteers make a positive difference in so many lives.  What they may not know, though, is that some studies have shown volunteering can slow age-related signs like frailty and cognitive challenges.  Wow, now that’s a bonus!

So, are there any local opportunities?  Yes, many.  One in particular is The CASA Project located in Worcester County.

CASA is nonprofit agency that works on behalf of abused or neglected children; its name is an acronym for Court Appointed Special Advocate.  Volunteers normally take on one case at a time, and their primary objective is to speak on behalf of the respective child’s best interests. This may or may not coincide with the child’s desires.

Are there educational prerequisites in becoming a CASA?  No, a thorough training program is provided.  Still, candidates should have an interest in children, possess adequate communication skills, and maintain some level of writing proficiency (volunteers write court reports).  In addition, every candidate must pass a background check.

So what are some CASA duties?

• Maintain a working knowledge of the case by reviewing all pertinent information (e.g., documents, records, reports).
• Contact key parties and keep notes about important details (this is a fundamental part of the investigation process).
• Visit with the child for 30 minutes or so about once a month.
• Write Court reports and attend hearings.
• Seek out support from the CASA supervisor and keep him or her abreast of the latest developments.
• Connect with fellow team members (e.g., social worker, parents, clinicians, teachers) to identify the proper services for the child; this can usually be accomplished by phone conversations and/or meetings.  NOTE: It is important to mention that sometimes team members do not always agree about the course of action on a case; the Court report allows the judge to understand CASA’s position.

How often does a CASA volunteer work?  It varies according to the complexity of the case.  Some situations warrant only a few hours per month, while others could require two to four hours per week.  The duration of each case is normally 12 to 18 months, although a small number of cases can be much longer.  Few words can articulate the accomplishment an advocate feels when a child proudly proclaims, “This is ‘my CASA!” Still, other CASA opportunities, such as assisting with fund raising or community outreach, are also available.  Many individuals throughout the country age 60 and over volunteer for CASA in a number of ways.

CASA volunteers speak for one of the most vulnerable segments of society, innocent children.  For additional information about CASA or The CASA Project of Worcester County, call 508-757-9877 or visit www.casaworcestercounty.org.

The National Baseball Hall of Fame is a non-profit museum dedicated to an illustrious American institution: baseball. The complex (which includes a research library) commemorates the beginnings, growth, and historical timeline of baseball’s fascinating history.  Additionally, multiple displays pay tribute to the talented men and women who helped shape baseball into an American icon.

The museum, established in 1939, is located in Cooperstown, New York. Over 300,000 travelers visit this small town each year to enjoy the art, literature, pictures, historical data, videos, memorabilia, and other intriguing information The Baseball Hall of Fame has to offer.

How does someone make it into the Hall of Fame?  Well, it’s not easy.  Actually, the chances are about 70 to 1 for the average player.

First, players must have worked a minimum of ten years in the major leagues and have been retired for at least five (although there have been exceptions to this rule).  Afterwards, there are no set guidelines that automatically qualify an individual (like hitting over 500 home runs).  Instead, the Baseball Writer’s Association and Veterans Committee (living Hall of Famers) determine eligibility based on standards like character, aptitude, sportsmanship, skill level, and team contribution.

A basic rule of thumb?  The best players are the ones who often make it in.  It’s interesting to note, however, that candidacy is not limited to baseball players.  Managers, executives, and umpires are also included in the 292 members.

So who are some of these Famers?  Here are a few names that you might recognize.

Hank Aaron

Yogi Berra

Wade Boggs

Roy Campanella

Gary Carter

Joe DiMaggio

Dennis Eckersley

Rickey Henderson

Tommy Lasorda

Mickey Mantle

Willie Mays

Jose Mendez

Satchel Paige

James Rice

Cal Ripken, Jr.

Phil Rizzuto

Jackie Robinson

Babe Ruth

Tom Seaver

Ted Williams

Carl Yastrzemski

Cy Young

The Baseball Hall of Fame attracts a wide variety of people to its doors each and every year, not only baseball fans.  The reason?  There are so many exhibits to enjoy like The Records Room, Babe Ruth Room, Diamond Dreams: Women in Baseball, Pride and Passion: The African-American Baseball Experience, Scared Ground, Taking the Field: The 19th Century, the Plaque Gallery, the Bullpen Theater, the Education Gallery, and so much more!

Thinking about a trip to Cooperstown this summer?  Why not?

Peas have a long-standing legacy in many regions of the world.  The ancient Romans and Greeks regularly used the dried variety of this legume, but the origin of the small veggie is thought to have its roots in the Middle East.  Around the 19^th century, the English made garden peas legendary through their innovative breeding practices (hence the reason they are sometimes called English peas).  Now, many people around the world savor their fresh taste.

So which peas are popular in America?  Here are a few.

Garden Peas.  A positive feature to these peas?  It is difficult to beat the taste and texture; they are sweet and firm.  A negative?  They can be labor-intensive (you have to shell them).  If purchasing, one pound will usually equate to one cup of peas.  Be sure to choose firm, green pods when making your selection; they tend to be the freshest.  Oh, and as a side note, they are worth the work!

Snow Peas. Snow peas look like skinny, unshelled garden peas.  Yet, this variety is completely edible, so you actually eat the pod.  Snow peas are popular in stir-fry recipes, but they can also be consumed raw.  If cooking, do not do so for long, the pod should have a crisp bite.  And the flavor?  Sweet!

Sugar Snap Peas.  Sugar snap peas are a hybrid pea.  They seem to be a cross between garden peas and snow peas.  Like snow peas, they are consumed unshelled; like garden peas, their pod has a larger girth.  A likely reason they are called sugar snap?  They make a discernible snap when broken, and they almost taste like sugar.

Chickpeas.  Chickpeas (also called garbanzo beans) are unlike the above varieties; in fact, they are not green but instead tan-colored.  Chickpeas are very popular in areas like Italy, Latin America, and the Middle East.  In fact, a famous Middle Eastern dish, falafel, is made by frying mashed chick peas.  This pea variety is hearty and makes a nice substitution for meat.

Black-Eyed Peas.  Black-eyed peas seem to be the least-known pea in the immediate area, although the dish is quite popular in some Southern states.  The off-white color is oval-shaped with a black spot in the middle (thus, black-eyed).  Black-eyed peas are great as a side dish, in soups, and in some casserole meals.

Peas can also be purchased dried or frozen and make hearty soups (like split pea).  They are versatile and beloved by adults and children, alike.  They contain vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and thiamine.  They are low in fat and simply delicious.

Well, what more can be said?

Vegetables can be found in supermarkets year round, but nothing is more enjoyable than the summer assortment.  The reason?  Many are locally grown, so they are fresher than if they had hitched a ride from Mexico or California.  In fact, the experience is so wonderful you can even taste the freshness!

So what are some varieties to try?  Here are a few ideas.

• Corn.  Fresh corn is probably one of the more popular summer vegetables, and the delicious taste explains why.  The more common types are butter and sugar, white, and yellow.  As far as cooking goes, corn is typically de-husked and boiled in water for 3 to 6 minutes.  It is also yummy on the grill (it is not unusual to keep the husks on).  A bonus?  Corn offers a nice dose of fiber and vitamin C.
• Arugula.  Okay, so maybe you have seen the name, particularly in bistro-type restaurants, but you’re still not certain what it is all about.  Arugula is a leafy vegetable that is often used in salads.  Its taste can range from mild (smaller leaf variety) to something considerably stronger flavored (larger leaf).  Arugula is packed with nutrients like calcium and vitamin C.
• Cucumbers. Cucumbers are a much-loved favorite; when the salad bowl is being passed around, mostly everyone wants to make sure that at least one slice is on their plate.  Cucumbers should not be restricted to salads, though.  They can be used in sandwiches, as appetizers (with a dollop of peanut butter, shredded cheddar, or cream cheese), and as a stand-alone evening snack.  Cucumbers contain vitamin C and are packed with water (so they’re great for hydrating).
• Avocados.  Avocados can be an odd sort.  Some people love them, while others don’t even know what they look like.  This tasty vegetable is best known for its use in Mexican food, particularly guacamole.  It can also be mashed or included in spicy salsa.  Avocados are high in many nutrients including vitamins A, C, and B6.  They should be stored at room temperature and are ready to eat when pressure on the outside skin yields moderate give (kind of like a yoga mat).  If they are hard like an apple, they are not yet ripe.
• Eggplant. Eggplant is a staple food in many Mediterranean countries.  It offers a healthy (and hearty) measure of culinary pleasure.  This veggie can be breaded and fried, scooped out and stuffed, brushed with oil and grilled, and so much more.  Extra-virgin olive oil always seems to complement its taste, so use when on hand.
• Zucchini. Okay, what would the warmer months be like without zucchini?  It seems synonymous with the summer.  This versatile vegetable can be sliced and sautéed with onions and eggs, coated in bread crumbs (or flour) and fried, tossed in a stir fry, added to soups, seasoned and baked, etc.  Oh, and the blossoms?  They’re delectable (make a batter from flour and egg and fry in olive oil until slightly golden).  Just be sure to pick the blossoms that stand alone (male) if you are growing zucchini.  The flowers attached to the zucchini plant (female) might not yield the fruit if the blossoms are removed.
• Peppers. Peppers are delightful at any time, but they are especially enjoyable in the summer.  They provide vitamins A & C and are adaptable when cooking.  For example, peppers can be stuffed and baked, sliced and sautéed, cut and roasted, added to egg dishes, sautéed with sausage and onions, topped on salads, the options are many!

Summer vegetables are wonderful, filled with nutrients, and please the palate.  It is important to remember to take notice of the vegetables’ appearance when making your selections, though, as it can be an indication of freshness.

Next week, think peas.  But for now, be sure to eat your veggies!