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The kids decision revisited

Dear Readers: I am always fascinated to hear diametrically opposed yet equally valid viewpoints. Such was the case with the following two letters, which both appeared in my inbox on the same day in response to “Undecided in Ohio,” who isn’t sure whether she wants kids. Read on. Dear Annie: I have often read this column but never responded to an article. Today is different. I’m an 83-year-old man. When my wife and I married in 1973, neither of us was interested in having children, though it was for different reasons. We are now well beyond the opportunity to change our minds on ...

Can I pump your gas, Mom?

Dear Heloise: Is there a law against a young child pumping gas at the self-service island? — A Reader in Pennsylvania There’s no law against it, but it’s not a good idea. Having a child “help” by pumping gas can cause a multitude of problems. Kids’ lungs aren’t fully developed, and breathing gas fumes can cause damage to their lungs and eyes. Also, children’s hand-eye coordination is not advanced; splashing is almost guaranteed. What’s a good age to start pumping gas? When you get your learner’s permit. Other safety hints: * It IS against the law to pump ...

Systolic and diastolic

Dear Dr. Roach: Decades ago, I served in the Marines and was wounded in action in the Korean War. While recuperating in the naval hospital, I was told by several doctors that the more important reading of blood pressure (which they took frequently) was the bottom number. Now I am told by my doctors at the Veterans Affairs medical facility that it is the top number that is more critical. I am confused. Can you help? — M.B. Answer: Both the top number and the bottom number are important, and either of them might be more critical in any given person. Looking at the entire population, it ...

‘Off to a good start’

LAKE BENTON Lake Benton Public School has a lot to celebrate. Not only has the district nearly doubled its enrollment from a decade ago, community support has also grown significantly. That support was evident at the elementary school’s open house and playground dedication ...

PoP! Goes the Market

MARSHALL The Marshall Farmers Market is really popping these days. The organizers and community sponsors are enthusiastic about increased attendance. At midway through the season, Kim Guenther, market coordinator, says there has been an increase in attendance — especially with ...

Taking stock of road damage

LYON COUNTY The full extent of the damage that the July flood event had on Lyon County roads and bridges is something that’s taken a long time to assess. In many cases, it’s still not certain what the full costs of repairs will be, said county highway engineer Aaron VanMoer. In a ...