The next time you hear a politician use the word “billion” in a casual manner, think about whether you want the “politicians” spending your tax money. A billion is a difficult number to comprehend, but one advertising agency did a good job of putting that figure into some perspective in one of its releases.

Yikes! Certainly makes you think!

Thank you to all the brave men and women in our military, both past and present, who help to keep our country safe and strong!

In honor of Veterans Day, here are a few military truisms that work both in the service and in life:

• There is no reason to fly through a thunderstorm in peacetime.
• Airspeed, altitude and brains. Two are always needed to successfully complete the flight.
• Never trade luck for skill.
• If the enemy is in range, so are you.
• When the pin is pulled, Mr. Grenade is not our friend.
• Never tell the Platoon Sergeant you have nothing to do.
• And…never fly in the same cockpit with someone braver than you!

Diabetes can be a debilitating disease.  Today, there are over 20 million people in the U.S. who have diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association (ADA).  Between 90-95% of those diagnosed with diabetes have Type 2 diabetes.  Many of these cases are preventable.  Type 2 diabetes is the result from insulin resistance (the body fails to use insulin properly). 
 
Scientists at the American Institute for Cancer Research found that limiting saturated fat (which increases insulin resistance) in your diet significantly reduces your risk of diabetes.  Most high saturated fats are found in meat, whole fat dairy like cheese, whole milk, ice cream, and butter. Researchers recommend you limit your saturated fat to less than 20 grams per day for an adult male; less for females and children. 

There also are several lifestyle changes you can make to reduce your risk of Type 2 diabetes.  The ADA recommends eating a healthy diet of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, daily exercise (walking, biking, swimming), and keeping trim.

In these times of uncertainty, air travel can be a frustrating maze of ticket lines, security checks and flight delays. The Department of Homeland Security has issued several recommendations that can save you from secondary screenings and maddening luggage searches.

1. Passengers should place all metal items in a carry-on bag while waiting in line. Avoid wearing metal jewelry, belts or clothing. Avoid over-packing luggage and keep presents unwrapped. If possible, use see-through bags for clothes and toiletry items. If your luggage is inspected, it will make it a quick job for security personnel.

2. Be advised to take all computer laptops and other electronic devices out of their cases while standing in line.

3. Any jackets or long coats should be taken off and ready to be screened.

4. Wear slip-on shoes. You will need to remove your shoes for security screening, and loafers or hush puppies will make the process easier.

5. All shampoos, mouthwash or other liquids must be in a container of 3.0 oz or less. The container must have the quantity (3 oz or less) marked on the label – otherwise it will be removed. Finally, all liquids must be placed in a quart-sized clear plastic bag to go through security.

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