Originally created 06/19/02

News you can use



By From Staff and Wire Reports


BACK IN TIME

June 19, 1925

The successful delivery of many thousands of Augusta Chronicle air mail bulletins yesterday was an epochal event in the history of American newspapers. It is the first time, so far as we are able to learn, that such a feat has been attempted.

The Chronicle entered into an arrangement with Woollen Aviation to carry the message of Augusta merchants to the people of this section of Georgia and South Carolina, and a special air mail edition with all of the news of the Augusta stores, outlining special bargains for today, was published. In addition, all the advertisements were carried in the regular editions of the paper.

Many of the copies floated from the airplane into the yards of residences. And the novel sight attracted wide attention.

HURRICANE INSURANCE

Questions and answers from Georgia Insurance Commissioner John Oxendine:

Q: When is hurricane season? What can I do to protect my property in the event of a powerful storm such as a hurricane or tornado?

A: According to the National Weather Service, hurricane season runs from June 1 through Nov. 30. Also, based on statistics from previous years, September is usually the month with the most hurricanes.

To protect your possessions from dangerous weather such as hurricanes and tornadoes, it's important to plan ahead and make sure you have adequate insurance.

  • Decide whether you want cash-value coverage or replacement-cost coverage.

  • Make a list of your valuables, furniture, electronics, etc. A photographic or videotape record is a good idea. Keep copies of the list or photos in a safe place outside your home, such as a safe deposit box.

  • Keep auto and homeowners policy numbers, and your agent's phone number, in a safe place.

  • Although a standard homeowner's insurance policy covers damage from high winds and tornadoes, it does not cover damage from flooding. A separate policy must be purchased through the National Flood Insurance Program, and can be purchased only if you live in a designated flood plain, and if your community participates in the national program. However, some mobile home policies may cover damage caused by floods. Check your policy.

  • If a storm damages your home, contact your agent or insurance company as soon as possible.

  • ¾After the storm passes, take steps to protect your property from further damage. For example, if your roof is leaking, cover it with a tarp. Most policies won't cover after-storm rain damage.

    • Send your insurance questions to: Insurance Commissioner John Oxendine, 716 West Tower 2, Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Atlanta, GA 30334; or call (404) 656-2070, toll-free at (800) 656-2298, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekdays. The Web site is www.gainsurance.org.

    ELECTION QUALIFYING

    Qualifying opens today for Georgia elections. Here's the election schedule for this year.

    TODAY THROUGH NOON FRIDAY - Candidates qualify for state offices

    JUL. 22 - Deadline to register to vote in primaries

    AUG. 20 - Primary elections

    SEPT. 10 - Primary runoff

    OCT. 7 - Deadline to register to vote in general election

    NOV. 5 - General election

    NOV. 26 - General election runoff (if necessary)

    LIVE SAFELY

    Injuries continue to be the fifth-leading cause of death after heart disease, cancer, stroke and chronic lung disease. Yearly, about 60.5 million people seek medical attention or suffer at least one day of activity restriction because of an injury.

    June is National Safety Month, and MCG Health Systems issued the following safety tips, adaptable for the year:

  • Wear properly fitted bicycle helmets. Helmets should cover the upper part of the forehead to cushion it in case of impact.

  • Riding a motorcycle in 90-degree or hotter weather can be dangerous. Remember that your body sweats, so drink plenty of fluids and drape a wet towel around your neck.

  • Regardless of skin type, a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 should be used if you are going to be in the sun for more than 20 minutes.

  • To help prevent heat-related illnesses, wear lightweight and light-colored clothing, carry water or juice, drink continuously, and eat frequent, small meals.

  • After being outdoors for a long period, inspect yourself for ticks and shower immediately after coming indoors.

  • When running, do not wear headsets, so you can hear an approaching car or attacker; stay clear of parked cars or bushes; vary your route; and have your door key ready when approaching home.

  • Studies show that wearing your seat belt adds to longevity and helps alleviate potential injuries in car crashes.

  • Learning to swim is the best thing you can do to stay safe in and around the water.



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