Few subjects have the power to bring a social conversation to a dead stop faster than gun ownership by civilians.

Between the National Rifle Association and staunch gun-control advocates, there's a chasm of Grand Canyon proportions. In that chasm are many issues: who should have access to firearms, what kind should be allowed, is concealed or open carry best, and this old standby—do guns kill people, or do people kill people?

There are endless outlets for advocacy on all sides (and there are many sides), and The Best Times is not entering that debate. Instead, we want to share the thinking of some local experts in the area of public safety and training, all of whom agree heartily on one point:

If you are going to use a gun, you owe it to yourself and to society to do it responsibly. That means choosing appropriate weapons, being legally permitted, having excellent training, and practicing until you are proficient, then practicing some more.

This is important for gun-owners of any age. But senior adults, particularly if they show any disability, can be perceived as vulnerable by perpetrators of crime. If the seniors purchase guns for self-defense, their vulnerability will not improve unless they follow the counsel given... [ READ MORE ]

The mission of the Johnson County Library is to provide access to ideas, information, experiences, and materials that support and enrich lives.

Because it may not always be convenient to visit one of the library's 13 locations, I'd like to highlight some resources available from the Library website. Readers may access these from the comfort of their own home, or through their favorite mobile device. All you need is a library card and a PIN. ...[ READ MORE ]

EXERCISE
To prevent, improve, or reverse age-related disease

Physical activity has been linked in countless studies with the prevention of many diseases and conditions that develop as we age. The Mayo Clinic recommends 30 minutes of aerobic exercise most days of the week, but you can break the daily requirement into two or three short sessions and get the same results. Additionally, two to three sessions of weight-bearing exercise are recommended.

Always consult your health care professional before starting a new exercise regimen. This is especially true for older adults and those who are overweight or who smoke, experience chest pain or dizziness with exertion, or have a chronic health condition or a family history of heart problems.

In addition to restrictions or recommendations that result from the consultation, take precautions for any conditions you have. Here are some of the common conditions experienced with age, specific recommendations, and special precautions to take. ... [ READ MORE ]

Being a minister's son undoubtedly contributes to Max DeWeese's faith and his dedication to helping others by volunteering. But his years in the Marine Corps, fighting in four bloody battles in the South Pacific during World War II, may have provided an even greater influence.

"Because my father was a minister, faith was an important part of my life when I was growing up," DeWeese said. "But I don't believe you can survive four major battles and live to be 92 years old without taking medicine, and not have a strong religious belief. If you've done that, you know you've had angels looking over your shoulder." ... [ READ MORE ]