Coconuts are a delightful fruit that sometimes seem hard to find.  When they are located, people feel they can only indulge in small quantities because this delight is high in saturated fat.  While it’s true that most saturated fats, particularly the animal variety, may not be so good for us, recent studies have suggested certain vegetable/fruit versions might not be bad after all (and neither are their oils!)

Let’s look at what the newer coconut oil info is suggesting.

• Weight loss. Okay, this seems counter intuitive; a food high in saturated fat that helps us lose weight?  Well, some studies suggest this is the case.  Coconut oil is believed to boost the metabolism (which in turn burns calories).  And, speaking of calories, coconut oil has fewer calories than some other fats.  An added bonus?  Enhanced energy!
• Stronger immune system.  Coconut oil contains antimicrobial, antibacterial, and antifungal benefits.  The lauric acid in coconut oil is believed to convert into properties that work to counteract conditions like skin infections, ulcers, stomach upset, herpes, and the list goes on.  Some studies have even indicated coconut oil could be beneficial for more serious conditions like HIV, AIDS, hepatitis, and syphilis.
• Heart health.  How is it possible that a product with over 90% saturated fat can be helpful to the heart?  Again, lauric acid is believed to be the reason.  Coconut oil contains around 50% lauric acid, and lauric acid helps guard against high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and assorted heart problems.  It’s also alleged to help prevent arterial wall buildup (nonetheless, everything in moderation).
• Skin Superstar? When applied topically, this oil is a fabulous moisturizer.  Skin appears softer, younger, hydrated, and better balanced.  Compared to the price of anti-aging products, it’s truly an economical way to go.  Coconut oil is also thought to provide benefits for psoriasis, ringworm, age spots, dandruff, eczema, and skin infections.

Which type of coconut oil is best?  Organic extra-virgin coconut oil.  It can be found online and in some health food stores.  It’s a fantastic skin conditioner, frying oil, and supplement.

So, what really makes this oil such a marvel?  It seems to boil down to fatty acids.  Many fat/oil products, whether animal or plant-based, contain long-chain fatty acids (LCFA).  Coconut oil contains medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA).  Studies suggest that medium-chain fatty acids are better for the body and help protect against (or address) a variety of symptoms and/or conditions.  An added benefit?  There does not appear to be any unpleasant side effects.  Still, always check with your doctor if you are using this product for any kind of ailment.

Coconut oil?  It’s definitely worth a look!

Last week we covered a few fall festivals taking place in September.  This week we will continue with some additional autumn events.

• Festival of Ale.  This popular happening takes place at the Higgins Armory Museum on Barber Avenue in Worcester on September 24 from 6 to 9.  Over twenty New England brewers will be presenting more than seventy deliciously-crafted brews.  Anything else on hand?  Yes!  Food, music, and raffles will also be included.  The cost for this evening of entertainment is $35 in advance and $10 for non-drinkers (i.e., designated drivers).  The Festival of Ale usually sells out ahead of time, so if you have an interest, go to www.higgins.org ASAP for additional info.

• Autumn Wine Celebration.  Beer not your thing?  Then perhaps wine will balance your palate.  This evening of aromatic enjoyment offers a bouquet of treasures and takes place at Wachusett Mountain on Saturday, November 5.  The event is sure to please both the sommelier-types and those who prefer just a little sip of vineyard bliss every now and then.  Over 200 wines will be featured, and there will be food tastings presented by area restaurants: live jazz music complements the enchantment.  Admission is $35 in advance and $45 at the door.  There’s even a Wine Tasters Package that includes a four-course dinner paired with artfully selected wines.  The cost for this option?  Seventy-nine dollars in advance. NOTE: The Wine Tasters Package is not available for purchase at the door.

• Kidfest. So, you have your grandchildren for the weekend?  Then head over to Wachusett Mountain on September 24 and/or 25 for the Kidfest.  There are numerous activities for children of all ages; even big kids will have a great time (i.e., grandparents).  Clowns, games, laser tag, pony rides, climbing walls, entertainment, sky rides, music, food (and the like) are included in this fun-filled weekend.  Adult admission is $8 in advance and $10 at the door.  Child admission (ages 3-12) is $4 in advance and $6 at the door.  The sky ride is an extra cost, and certain package deals are available.  To learn more, go to www.wachusett.com.

• Spirit of Shrewsbury.  This exhilarating fall festival is a town-wide celebration!  Varied events take place on September 30, October 1, and October 2 and include a hometown gathering, Jack-O-Lantern display, pancake breakfast, scarecrow contest, fishing derby,  Oak Street Expo, artisans, crafters, raffles, music, food, 1830 Brick Schoolhouse and Museum Open House with slide show and refreshments, Artemas Ward Barn Open House with outdoor concert, parade, senior recognition tribute, and so much more!  Go to www.spiritofshrewsbury.com for event times and details.

Fall is filled with a multitude of delightful activities, and there’s something for just about everyone.  So, get out and enjoy!

The unofficial summer finale has officially passed.  After Labor Day, everyone seems to think about the fall!  Department stores sport long sleeve tops, plaids skirts, woolen jackets, and nearly everyone is subject to back-to-school ads.

Alas, for some of us, a type of mourning accompanies the changing of the seasons.  It’s not so much we will miss the hazy, crazy, lazy days of this high-temperature time, some of us actually prefer cooler weather.  Instead, many of us realize that a cold winter lies ahead.  And, with the way winter has been revealing itself, we will likely need our coats, scarves, and gloves well into April.

Nonetheless, fall has so many attributes to celebrate, so let’s focus on one season at a time.  It offers comfortable days, cool nights, and breathtakingly beautiful scenery.  Instead of grieving summer’s departure, let’s rejoice in autumn’s arrival!

So, what’s there to do?  Fall festivals undoubtedly spice up this period.  Here are some local ideas.

• Blackstone Canalfest ‘11.  No one is suggesting you hop a transatlantic flight to romantic Venice; still, you don’t have to!  Worcester has its own dreamy canal district on Harding Street with a yearly festival to boot.  This free to the public event takes place on September 10 and offers an exciting day for the entire family.  Horse and buggy rides, musical entertainment, culinary fare from area restaurants, kayak journeys, raffles, historical data about the region and much more will be available.  An added perk?  Parking will be available to festival-goers at the Union Station Parking Garage for only $1!
• Harvard Fall Festival.  This event began some 20-something years ago as a modest craft fair but mushroomed into a fabulous festival!  It runs three consecutive days, September 16, 17 and 18, and is sure to please the toughest critic.  For example, on 9/16 beginning at 5 p.m., local bands will be competing for the festival’s top honor.  On 9/17, crafts, live music, food, etc., will be offered (did anyone say BBQ?).  Nighttime enjoyment features Beatlejuice, food, and fireworks.  The festival wraps up on 9/18 with a classic auto show from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.  Yikes, it does sound like fun!!!
• stART on the Street.  Want to visit the largest festival in Central Massachusetts?  Then head over to stART on the Street located on Park Ave. in Worcester on September 18 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.  This popular ninth-year happening will again boast artists, crafters, food vendors, music, entertainment, etc.  Information booths will be on hand should anyone have questions, and parking can be found on side streets and lots surrounding Park Avenue.

A number of other festivals are taking place in the Worcester area during the fall.  For further information, go to www.centralmass.org.

Let’s be honest, despite the fact winter tends to overextend its welcome in these parts, it is undoubtedly charming, as well.  Nevertheless, September 23 marks the official beginning of autumn, so let’s celebrate this soon-to-arrive season without sweating the cold stuff.

Next time we’ll look at some additional fall happenings.  But until then, cider anyone?

Some people experience mouth problems as they become older.  These situations can be inconvenient, embarrassing, painful, and downright irritating!

What issues could occur?  Here are some possibilities.

• Discoloration. Repeated intake of certain foods or drinks like blueberries, cherries, tea, coffee, etc., can cause significant staining to the teeth.  Because of this, it is best to clean teeth immediately after meals.  Some toothpaste companies include ingredients such as baking soda to reduce surface stains.  Naturally, regular flossing and brushing are extremely important when it comes to staving off discoloration, as are twice-yearly dental hygienist appointments (hygienists get teeth sparkly!).

• Strange tastes.  Some individuals experience an altered sense of taste as the years pass on.  This can be frustrating because foods that once seemed appetizing no longer offer the same enjoyment.  Certain medications can drastically affect taste in some people, so this is one possibility.  At the same time, a diminished sense of smell occasionally accompanies taste alterations.  If food is beginning to taste strange to you, consult with your doctor.  He/she will likely strive to discover the cause.  If the reason cannot be determined, then you may be referred to an ears, nose, and throat specialist.  Independent of all of that, use certain nasal sprays with care.  More than a few people believe their sense of smell became negatively impacted because of this type of medication.

• Dentures misalignment.  Dentures typically start off feeling fine but can become uncomfortable.  The reason?  Bone and gums change as time goes by, and what once fit properly may become loose or shifted.  Bottom line?  Call your dentist if your dentures are bothering you.  He/she will make the necessary adjustments so they can feel great again.  Do not attempt to adjust dentures on your own, you could break the appliance or end up with an even greater degree of distortion.

• Chewing difficulties.  Chewing difficulties can be rooted in a number of different causes.  The problem might be a canker sore that will heal in a few days, a dental appliance that needs fine-tuning, tooth sensitivity because of nerve problems (and the eventual need for a root canal), loose teeth due to bone loss and periodontal disease, and a medley of other possibilities.  If you feel discomfort when chewing, it is important to find out the culprit.  Some seniors fail to eat the proper foods because it hurts to do so and subsequently suffer from malnutrition.

Sure, mouth maladies may increase with age, but proper care can circumvent certain problems.  Now that’s something most of us can swallow!

September 11 is coming up in a few weeks.  Many Americans reflect on this day with a heavy heart because of the tragic loss of life that took place.  Still, there are events occurring on 9/11/11 that are not as solemn in nature.  Let’s look at a couple.

• Grandparents Day.  Many of us remember our grandparents with extreme fondness.  They acted as support systems to our parents, lovingly reinforced messages we needed to hear, listened to us gripe about how unfairly life was treating us, lifted our spirits when we were down, babysat for us when Mom and Dad needed help, diplomatically taught us valuable lessons, cooked special meals for lunch, dinner, or holidays, and believed we were important in almost every way.  Grandparents truly are unique because they give so much and expect so little in return; actually, knowing their grandchildren are happy seems to be their reward.  This year Grandparents Day falls on September 11.  So, surprise your grandparents with a card, gift, or, more importantly, a heartfelt visit.  Yes, grandparents selflessly give of their time and resources, think of this day as an opportunity to give back.

• The Arthritis Walk.  Arthritis is a debilitating condition that affects the joints; nearly 50 million Americans are stricken with some form of this disease.  There are multiple varieties of arthritis, and certain types can even attack children.  The Arthritis Foundation, a national health organization with its headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia, educates, informs, and raises money in the hopes of combating this disabling condition.  The Arthritis Walk, an annual event sponsored by The Arthritis Foundation called Let’s Move Together, is scheduled to take place on September 11 at The Bancroft School, 110 Shore Drive, Worcester, MA.  Registration for this fundraiser is between 10:30 a.m. and 12 p.m.  People interested in participating can sign up to walk or make a donation (or both).  For further details, contact Margaret at the Central Massachusetts Arthritis Walk, 617-219-8228 or online at mfarmer@arthritis.org.

In addition to the above happenings, there are a number of scheduled remembrances around the nation marking the tragedy that took place on September 11, 2001.  For example, a ten year anniversary commemoration will be occurring on 9/11/11 in song with multiple choral groups at Institute Park, 140 Salisbury Street, Worcester, MA: the tribute begins at 2 P.M.  For additional information, go to www.massremembers.com.

September 11 is a day most of us will never forget.  May God always bless America.

Bunions, also know as hallux valgus, are one of the more common foot problems that affect seniors.  Some believe that years of wearing heels or other ill-fitting shoes result in the condition.  Although this viewpoint holds merit, it does not tell the entire story.  While certain shoe types undoubtedly exacerbate the problem, thus the reason more women suffer from the condition than men, bunions often occur because of a deformity located in the structure of the foot.  At the same time, a genetic component could be attached (e.g., bunions can run in families).  To a lesser extent, bunions may develop because of an injury to the foot.  Bunions tend to become worse with time, but modification of footwear to a roomier, more cushioned shoe allows for greater comfort and may arrest progression.

How are bunions presented?  The joint at the big toe becomes enlarged, misaligned, and/or swollen.  The big toe may also shift toward the second toe; this makes the foot seem wider, and certain shoes could become increasingly difficult to wear.  Pain may or may not accompany bunions.  When soreness is present, it occurs as intermittent to steady burning, tenderness and/or aching.

Bunions are classified into three categories: mild, moderate, and severe.  Let’s briefly look at each.

• Mild.  Mild bunions appear as a slight bump at the big toe joint; discomfort, if present, is generally minimal.  Bunions in this category are addressed conservatively.  Orthotics and/or shoe modification, including footwear with strong support, are frequently the treatment of choice.
• Moderate.  Moderate bunions usually have a more significant bump at the big toe joint, and the larger toe may shift conspicuously toward the smaller ones.  When considerable pain accompanies the situation, surgical measures are commonly explored.
• Severe.  Severe bunions appear quite large, and the foot looks noticeably misaligned: pain can be a major concern.  Bunions of this type normally warrant surgery.  It is important to mention there are different surgical methods to correct the condition,

Some people continually suffer with bunions, but there is no reason to limit what you do when help is available.  Why stay indoors if you really want to be out having fun?

What should you do if you have this condition?  Make an appointment with a podiatrist or orthopedic physician.  He/she will assess the situation and suggest a treatment right for you.  If surgery is recommended, it is wise to seek the advice of two to three different surgeons to help ensure the best approach for your type of bunion.

We will wrap up our feet trilogy next time with some useful tips to help ward off foot problems.  In the meantime, it seems the stock market will keep us on our toes!

Everyone is blessed with gifts, but naturally, not all people have the same ones to offer.  Some individuals have cheery personalities that naturally brighten the lives of those around them.  They are good listeners, trusted confidants, and insightful advice-givers.

Other individuals don’t possess those particularly gifts but have different varieties to offer.  They might be savvy business types who voluntarily share their expertise and knowledge to help people not as intuitive in the field.

Myra Kraft, a Worcester native, had multiple gifts, and she used them to better our world.  With unquestionable drive, she devoted many hours and resources to the causes she held dear; sadly, she passed this past week.  Because this amazing individual positively influenced the lives of so many people, let’s look more closely at her beautiful life.

Myra Kraft was born in Worcester, MA, on December 27, 1942.  She was the daughter of Worcester residents Jacob and Frances Hiatt.  Her family demonstrated a philanthropic spirit early on, so a give-back mentality was fostered at a young age.

Mrs. Kraft graduated from Brandeis University in 1964.  She married Robert Kraft, now-owner of the New England Patriots, and they raised a lovely family.

With an eagerness to make a difference, Myra Kraft undoubtedly achieved her objectives.  She formerly served on the board of directors for the Boys and Girls Club of Boston, the Boston Foundation, the United Way of Massachusetts Bay, and a few others.  She was president and director of the New England Patriots Charitable Foundation; the organization assists needy children and their families.

Mrs. Kraft not only held board positions in her charitable pursuits, but she also manned phones and made fundraising calls.  She worked in the metaphorical trenches to improve lives.  She was passionate in her endeavors, and her integrity and generosity never ceased to amaze those around her.  She held a special affection for her Jewish heritage and supported a number of Jewish causes.  Even so, that did not stop her from supporting Catholic Charities and other faith-based organizations that help people in need.

What was Mrs. Kraft like on a personal level?  No one knows for certain but her family and friends.  Still, from many accounts, it seems she was strong yet kind, determined yet unassuming.  She shunned the spotlight, but her laudable deeds brought her notice, anyway.  She was a woman of means, but she strove to use her gifts to help provide meaning to her own life and the lives of others.

Our world is full of lessons, and we are always learning, no matter what our age.   What can we learn from this remarkable Worcester native?  All of us are capable of making a difference in some way.  Certainly, our talents and resources may not be the same, but we can give back: whether it is a kind word to lift someone’s day, a volunteer position at an animal shelter walking dogs, writing a check to improve educational supplies, or donating food to a soup kitchen.

Yes, we all have gifts, and we can use them: Myra Kraft’s life is a wonderful example of that.

The Sun is a fiery star positioned in the center of our Solar System.  Earth, at least from a life-sustaining standpoint, could not survive without it.  As we know, this sphere-shaped mass gives off light and heat and is a major source of Earth’s energy (in short, it’s hot!).  It is composed primarily of hydrogen and helium and possesses magnetically active fields.

The Earth takes 365 days to rotate around the Sun, but that does not mean the Sun is stationary.  It also rotates, although the time it takes for rotation at its equator and poles are not the same.  To get an idea of its size, it is over 100 times wider than the Earth.  Still, from a star size perspective, it is probably in the average range.

What does this all mean to you?  Well, the Sun deserves a great deal of respect, but it can also be damaging.  Here are some thoughts to consider when you are exposed to its rays.

• Limit Sun Exposure. Limiting sun exposure is important for everyone, but seniors should take special care because their skin has more years of contact (e.g., mature skin may have a greater degree of sun damage).  Unfortunately, as we become older, our skin thins, and protection because even more vital.  Even so, a certain measure of exposure is positive because we get most of a needed vitamin from the sun: vitamin D.  Some seniors are deficient in vitamin D, so it is important to regularly have your levels checked.  Having said all of that, excessive sun can lead to negative skin changes, like abnormal cell formation.  In this case, too much of a good thing is not good.

• Wear protective clothing. There are times you can’t avoid being in the sun for longer periods.  Perhaps you have plans to participate in a walking tour or will be spending a few hours at a beach, park, lake, baseball field, or other outdoor setting.  When this is the situation, protective clothing is a great way to guard against the sun’s potentially harmful rays.  Long pants, a long shirt or top, and a wide-rim hat are great choices to consider.  If the air is very warm, it is best to choose lightweight, light-colored, cotton clothing (it breathes better and is cooler).

• Put on sunscreen. Sunscreen has been mentioned before, but it is worth mentioning again.  If you are only popping your head, hands, and other exposed parts of your body outdoors for brief periods, then sunscreen may not be necessary.  However, if you will be in the sun for protracted periods, even if it is cloudy but the sun is peeking through, then it makes sense to apply sunscreen.  What type?  Be sure to choose an SPF of 15 or above: also pick a product that protects against both UVA (long-wave) and UVB (shortwave) rays.

The Sun is a magnificent star, and without it, we wouldn’t be here.  If we exercise a little caution, we can safely revel in its brilliance.

What is WOO?  It’s a unique card established in 2007.  Originally it was designed for college students, but in 2009, the public WOO card was born.  Discounts and other incentives are made available to cardholders at assorted cultural, theatrical, retail, recreational, lodging, service, and dining venues.

How much do WOO Cards cost?  Well, it depends on the type.  College WOO cards are free to Greater Worcester college students, while general public WOO cards can be bought over the Internet or at certain locations like The Hanover Theater for the Performing Arts Box Office and Worcester City Clerk’s Office at City Hall for a one-time charge of $20.

Other things to know about WOO?  Well, after a card is purchased or received, it must be registered.  Once registration takes place, holders receive ongoing information about various WOO specials.  For example, in addition to periodic discounts and other promotions, WOO members accumulate points each time they swipe their cards at participating locations and events.  The points allow for eligibility in monthly drawings and other prizes.  Naturally, many incentives and/or savings are independent to the respective business and subject to change, so be sure to check.

Which businesses honor the WOO Card?  Many.  Here are some examples.

• Worcester Museum
• Old Sturbridge Village
• Seven Hills Symphony
• Tower Hill Botanic Garden
• Ristornante Via Alto 27
• Viva Bene
• Flying Rhino Café–(free appetizer with the purchase of two meals).
• Worcester Airport Limo (15% off)
• Central Rock Climbing Gym ($5 off day pass)
• ARTSWorcester (double points at galleries)
• Old Sturbridge Village (general public cards save 25% off admission price and college cards save 50%!).
• Seven Hills Symphony (double points).
• Bocado
• Garden Inn of Worcester (10% off).
• The Courtyard Marriott Worcester (free upgrade when available).

The above are merely a few of the 50-ish WOO Card establishments participating in this exciting program.  For additional details, go to www.culture@worcestermass.org.

The Greater Worcester Area is brimming with cultural, recreational, service, and dining opportunities.  The WOO card just makes these possibilities that much more appealing!

Thomas Jefferson was born in Virginia in 1743.  His father was well-to-do, so the future president was afforded an excellent education.  Like Adams, Jefferson had an acute intellect and unquenchable thirst for learning.  He graduated from William and Mary College in 1762 and became a lawyer in 1767.  His remarkable writing skills and sharp legal mind continues to impress.

Jefferson married his wife, Martha, in 1772; the couple went on to have six children.  Sadly, Martha died ten years into the marriage while giving birth.  Only two of Jefferson’s children with Martha lived long enough to see adulthood.  It is believed that he had other children with one of his slaves, Sally Hemings.

Jefferson’s contribution to freedom from British rule is monumental.  In fact, he is the individual who wrote the first draft of the Declaration of Independence. Interestingly, Jefferson did not appear to be a fervent supporter of slavery, and in his earlier years, he even believed the practice should not expand into new territories.  Still, his ownership of slaves, and negation to set the people free even upon his death, continues to perplex many minds.

Jefferson served as a delegate in the First and Second Continental Congress.  He was appointed Secretary of State by President Washington but later left the position.  Jefferson and the Secretary of the Treasury, Alexander Hamilton, were at odds with one another concerning foreign policy.  At the same time, they differed on the degree of strength the federal government should possess.  Hamilton, like Adams, was a Federalist; these men favored a stronger central power.  Jefferson was a Democrat-Republican who supported limited government.  It is believed that Jefferson thought President Washington was more inclined to Hamilton’s view, so he resigned.

Jefferson served as vice president under John Adams.  Although both men had been friends earlier on, they came to disagree about pivotal issues and grew apart.  Jefferson ran against Adams in the next election and won; subsequently, he became the third president of the United States.  An epic purchase he made during his administration was the Louisiana territory.   In 1803, he bought the area from France for $15,000,000.

Jefferson served two presidential terms and then left political life.  He lived out his remaining days in the lavish home his slaves built called Monticello (Monticello means small mountain).  During Jefferson’s older years, he accrued a great deal of debt.

Adams and Jefferson rekindled their friendship later on in life.  The reunification, though only my mail, brought much joy to both men.  And the quirk of fate that some of us might have forgotten?  Both men died on July 4, 1826.

Adams and Jefferson were joined in life by a unified cause, and that cause was freedom.  At the same time, they were united in death by the celebration of independence.  The fact that both Founding Fathers died exactly 50 years following the approval of the Declaration of Independence is extraordinary.  We can only imagine the mystical forces at hand that made this remarkable event possible.