FORBIDDEN FRUIT When Pilfering a Pineapple Was Britain’s Juiciest Crime
Most criminals sentenced to seven years have committed a serious crime, such as armed robbery or multiple burglaries. In 1807, however, a British man named John Godding was sentenced to seven years in an Australian penal colony for an entirely different offense: stealing seven pineapples. The prickly-skinned golden fruit was so prized in 16th, 17th, and 18th- century Britain that pineapples commanded exorbitant prices and were even available to rent to prosperous Brits who featured them as centerpieces at parties. The pineapple craze drove prices for the fruit so high that they became a prized target among petty thieves. Pineapples are native to the Caribbean and South America, and Christopher Columbus is credited with introducing them to Europe after finding them in Guadeloupe in 1493. The fruit quickly became de rigueur among the wealthy as an exotic delicacy. Importing pineapples was difficult, however, because they usually spoiled en route. In the 1770s, pineapples were selling in England for the equivalent of $17,000–$23,000 apiece in 2025 U.S. dollars. Europeans went wild over the sweet, fragrant fruit, which became a symbol of warmth and hospitality incorporated into Renaissance
architecture. Kings and queens clamored for pineapple, including Catherine the Great and King Ferdinand of Spain. King Charles II of England even commissioned a portrait of himself being presented with one. Initial attempts to cultivate pineapples in Britain’s cool climate failed. Transplanting and propagating plant stock and nurturing young plants to maturity was a painstaking process made more difficult by the fruit’s long maturation cycle, which requires as long as 2 1/2 years or more from planting to mature pineapples. British farmers tried for centuries before finally succeeding at producing pineapples in “hot houses” or “pineries” heated by furnaces placed within glass-walled enclosures. Advancements in global trade eventually made pineapples more readily available in Europe. Had the unfortunate Mr. Godding, the pineapple thief, committed his crime in modern times, he would probably have gotten off with a mere $100 fine.
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WARM WEATHER TIPS FOR SENIORS
Although we typically don’t experience winters as harshly as our neighbors up north, springtime in Florida brings new opportunities for seniors to experience more fun in the sun. Before you gear up to enjoy the months ahead, read these brief tips and reminders for staying safe as you get the most out of this time of year. Risky Realities According to the National Institute on Aging, seniors with cardiovascular, kidney, or lung diseases or who are on multiple medications in general are at higher risk for heat-related illnesses. The Institute recommends that people 65 and older hydrate regularly with water, fruit or vegetable juices, or beverages containing electrolytes. Additionally, they should reduce or eliminate their consumption 2 floridaestateplanning.com
of caffeine and alcohol on warm or hot days and apply sunscreen that is SPF 15 or higher before going outdoors. Before spending extended periods outside, consult your physician to determine whether any of your medications increase the likelihood of sunburn, overheating, or other weather- related health concerns. A Caregiver Compass As temperatures rise, so do the responsibilities of caregivers, who need to stay mindful of how the elements may affect the individuals they assist. In addition to recommending that caregivers visit those in their care at least twice daily in warm or hot weather, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests considering four critical questions:
1. Are they drinking enough water? 2. Do they know how to keep cool? 3. Do they show signs of heat stress? 4. Do they have access to air conditioning? The last question on this list is essential, as many seniors are often tempted to minimize their air conditioning to avoid increasing their utility costs. If you or a loved one struggles to afford additional weather- related expenses, the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) may provide financial assistance. For information on services available through Florida’s LIHEAP, please call 1-866-674-6327.
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