Time to overhaul some myths about car maintenance

Written by Hillsboro Free Press Tuesday, 16 March 2010 18:48

The oil filter is the engine’s main line of defense against abrasion and premature wear. The more dirt and other contaminants the filter can trap and hold the better. Knowledge may be power, but that’s only the case if you put what you know into good use.

Sure, it’s a common phrase that can be used in many different situations, but when applying it to car care, weeding through the myths can result in financial savings and longer vehicle life.

Myth: My car’s motor oil should be changed every 3,000 miles.

It is recommended that vehicle owners follow their manufacturer’s maintenance intervals while it is still under warranty. But if your car is no longer under warranty, try using a synthetic oil that can extend your oil change intervals.

The number of miles you can allow between your oil changes will depend on the way you drive and the oxidations stability of the motor oil.

Oxidation...

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Healthy Geezer: Heartburn caused by a variety of situations and irritants

Written by Fred Cicetti Tuesday, 09 March 2010 20:07

Q I’m getting heartburn a lot since I turned 60. Is more heartburn something that comes with more years?

 

AMore than 60 million Americans experience heartburn at least once a month and more than 15 million Americans experience heartburn daily. Heartburn is more common among the elderly.

Heartburn two or more times weekly may be caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. See a doctor if you have heartburn too often. The doctor can test for GERD.

In the upper GI series, you swallow a liquid barium mixture. Then a radiologist watches the barium as it travels down your esophagus and into the stomach. Another test is an endoscopy, in which a small lighted flexible tube is inserted into the esophagus and stomach.

GERD makes...

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Arrival of spring weather could lead to chronic pain issues

Written by Hillsboro Free Press Tuesday, 09 March 2010 20:05

There are a lot of activities that we all love to do that require repetitive motion. Tennis is a popular sport for all ages, and a game that can be played over a lifetime. But for people suffering from joint pain and carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), the repeated swinging motions required for a good volley can drive them off the court. We all know the feeling that comes with the first great day of spring. When the sun is shining, the air smells sweet and fresh and the temperatures are warm, we all feel the urge to get outside and throw off the confinement of the winter months.

Whether you’re an avid athlete, a dedicated gardener or someone who’s been meaning to get started on an exercise program, the arrival of spring is one sure way to get you moving.

No one is immune from the desire to get outdoors and do something active while enjoying the weather—and that includes people with chronic pain issues.

Whether you’re dealing with arthritis or trying to treat carpal tunnel syndrome, the threat of pain is one of the most challenging obstacles to overcome for...

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Changes to watch for on your 2009 income tax return

Written by Hillsboro Free Press Tuesday, 02 March 2010 19:54

If you made a cash contribution toward earthquake relief efforts in Haiti after Jan. 11, 2010, and before March 1, 2010, you can deduct it on your 2009 or 2010 return (but not both).<p> More people are looking forward to tax time this year. More than 25 tax cuts for 2009 federal returns have been passed to help those struggling in the downturned economy. Many states are also offering tax breaks this year.

“Virtually everyone is eligible for new tax credits, deductions and other changes on their federal tax returns,” says Jessi Dolmage, spokeswoman for 2nd Story Software Inc., makers of TaxACT. Dolmage summarizes seven changes that could impact your bottom line.

The Making Work Pay credit replaced the 2008 federal stimulus checks for 2009 and 2010. The refundable credit is worth 6.2 percent of your earned income, up to $400 for individuals and $800 for married couples filing jointly.

The credit phases out for...

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