If we don’t act, extreme weather could be the norm
So, how did you like the recent sweltering heat wave we just experienced here in the Chicago area?
When it ended, what struck me was not just ordinary relief that it was over, but a strange feeling that the lovely, cool day that followed might be a rarity in our future. As we mourn for the people trying to recover from the tragic fires in Maui and other weather-stricken areas, we can’t ignore that climate change is creeping closer and influencing weather events everywhere.
Will there be a time in our future when a nice, balmy summer day is a surprise and a blistering heat wave is the norm? Will we someday face 35 consecutive days of 100-plus-degree temperatures like the punishing stretch Austin, Texas, just went through?
We can’t wait to do something to slow down climate change. All of the recent innovations and incentives surrounding renewable energy are helping turn us in the right direction, but we also need to further diminish the primary source of the problem: carbon emissions.
A carbon fee on emitting entities would be a way to encourage a greater switch to renewables using the influence of the free market. And, devoting this fee to a cashback dividend to consumers would protect them economically, especially those with the lowest carbon footprints.
Please contact your members of Congress and urge them to support a carbon fee and dividend plan as soon as they can.
More Top Picks Best Compression Boots For Athletes Recovery
Karen Campbell, Bolingbrook
Recent convert acknowledges the power of water
I’m struck by how often medical pros prescribe drinking more water as the ultimate solution to so many of our health problems.
As one who rarely drank water, except to wash down my medications, their recommendation was met with my usual skepticism on health-related issues.
However, over the years I’ve learned that water has virtually unlimited value in regulating body temperature, serving as an aid in digestion, and providing a boost to brain function and alertness. What’s more, it supports the function of cells and organs and it even keeps skin healthy.
Who knows, it may have even saved my life when blood tests showed I had a malfunctioning kidney. Upon seeing a nephrologist, his advice to me was simple and direct — drink more water and take less ibuprofen. I did both and it resulted in a success story with the very next test.
Even my physical therapist has hyped water usage, especially after a vigorous massage, when toxic elements are released as tightened muscles become more relaxed.
So, while I am usually reticent in handing out medical advice and as an admitted abuser of sugary drinks in the past, I’ve come to realize the importance of staying hydrated with water.
Bob Ory, Elgin
Share your views
Submit letters to the editor via email to [email protected]. Please include your name, address and town of residence for publication. We also need your phone number and email address for confirmation. Letters should be no more than 250 to 300 words.