BOOM Magazine March 2015 by FAMILY Magazines of Michiana

MARCH 2015

Knitting Into Your Home

Like A Pro

Just

Dance Visit

Chicago

History

Museum

The Importance Of A

Colono scopy

These South Bend Office Opening March 30th! Call today for your appointment! … have witnessed a lifetime of memories. With proper care, the best is yet to come. As we age, we naturally become more prone to eye health problems like cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration. But that doesn’t have to mean missing out on the sights that make new memories. That’s why it is so important to have a thorough eye health examination every year, or at the first sign of vision problems. Boling Vision Center can identify any underlying conditions, which often have no noticeable symptoms, and recommend a treatment program that could potentially save your sight. If cataracts are the culprit, Boling Vision Center has a team of doctors that is second to none and an onsite state-of-the-art surgical center. We are equally equipped to diagnose and care for glaucoma, macular degeneration and other vision conditions. We offer the highest quality expertise in the industry and consistent excellence in compassionate patient care. Learn more about eye health for maturing adults on our website or call for an appointment. We’re here to help you continue making a lifetime of amazing memories.

Richard, Elkhart

Amazing Here Amazing Happens Happens Here NEW LOCATION: 2004 Edison Rd., South Bend, 46617

800.283.8393 bolingvisioncenter.com

Marie, South Bend

28 boom / What's inside EVERY MONTH

boom TRAVELER

4 On The Cover

Contributors & Testimonials

BOOM Timeline

boom RECIPE 28

The Famous Corned Beef And Cabbage

boom BOOK REVIEW 29

The Midnight Plan Of The Repo Man By W. Bruce Cameron Reviewed By: Karen Palmer

Day Trip: Chicago History Museum By: Phyllis Rose

boom HOBBIES 18

Just Dance

Knit Like A Pro

Movie Trivia: Some Things Eastwood

By: Evie Kirkwood By: Rita Miller

By: Margo & Jim Bell

boom HOME

boom PETS

26 A Stout-ish Porter Or A Porter-ish Stout Part II

Loving Animals Looking For Their Forever Home

boom HEALTHY LIVING 8

Coping With Tough Times

The Importance Of A Colonoscopy

By: Michael G. Workman, MSN, MHA, R.N.. By: Margo Bell

12 Sprains, Strains and Tendonitis

By: James Flynn, M.D.

For Your Eyes Only

By: Dr. Richard C. Boling

Bring Spring Into Your Home By: Chris Kramer

By: Chuck Bergman

THE PLANNER 30

Boom Events to Put in Your Planner

boom

on the cover

Take a day trip to Chicago and visit the Chicago History Museum!

PRESIDENT & PUBLISHER: Betsy Tavernier Betsy@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com

Managing Editor:

Grab some needles and a ball of yarn and try out this new hobby!

Jessica Haviland Jessy@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com

AD COORDINATOR & INSIDE SALES MANAGER

Amanda Oiler Amanda@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com

GRAPHIC DESIGN Manager: Zuzanna Zmud Zuzanna@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com

MEDICAL EDITOR: Dr. Jesse Hsieh

Distribution Managers: Mike Trentacosti Kevin Reynolds

BOOM Magazine is a division of Michiana Family Magazines, LLC established in 2006. All rights reserved. We would love to hear from you! Please submit press releases, event information and inquiries to: Jessy@MichianaFamilyMagazine.com The FAMILY Magazines P.O. BOX 577 Granger, IN 46530 PH: 574.387.5420 • FX: 574.217.4700 www.MichianaMom.com Permission from the publisher is required for any reproduction or reprint of this publication. Read BOOM Magazine online each month! Go to www.MichianaMom.com and flip the pages, cover-to-cover the organic and green way! March 2015 Volume 4: Number 3

Keep up with the current home fashion trends and “WOW” your guests!

18 4

Dance classes are fun for all ages!

MARCH 2015 | boom

According to the American Cancer Society, they estimate that this year there will be over 96,000 cases of colon cancer!

LOOK WHO’s TALKING

follow us on Twitter, and become our fan on Facebook. @MichianaBoom www.facebook.com/pages/BOOM-Magazine/ www.pinterest.com/boommagazine/ MichianaBoom

march / contributors

boom / testimonials

Margo Bell Margo Bell, a first-wave Boomer, has a B.S. degree in Biology from Arkansas State University and worked in medical and marine biology research before making a mid-life career change to writing for adults and children. Margo is a former magazine editor and has published over 50 articles and features in newspapers and magazines. She and her husband Jim live in South Bend and have two grandchildren. Photo Credit: Classic Image Photography

Phyllis Rose With a love for the English language and travel, Phyllis Rose became an English teacher, freelance writer and traveler. She taught high school English for 29 years while also working as a freelance writer and editor. Retiring from teaching, she turned her part-time writing career into full-time, writing for newspapers and magazines. Phyllis loves international travel, especially to Europe. When not writing or traveling, she loves to read, do counted cross-stitch projects and plan her next travel adventure.

James Flynn, M.D. James Flynn, M.D. is a board-eligible orthopedic surgeon. He recently joined South Bend Orthopaedics in the summer of 2014, after finishing his foot and ankle surgery fellowship at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. He graduated from the University of Notre Dame and is fully enjoying his return to the Michiana area with his wife and two daughters.

Evelyn Kirkwood

Evelyn Kirkwood is Director of St. Joseph County Parks in Indiana and the host of Outdoor Elements, which is broadcast Sundays at 9 AM and Wednesdays at 5:30 PM on WNIT Public Television.

BOOM Magazine is such a great local publication that is FREE!” – Debra M.

BOOM Magazine helped spike my interest in new hobbies this winter!” – Bonnie W.

I love the pet section in BOOM. I wish I could adopt every animal that they highlight each month!” – Sue R.

MARCH Events 1-31

Su Mo

Lesley Baker: New Natura, 12:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M., South Bend Museum of Art

Know Your Facts:

Frederik Meijer Garden and Sculpture Park Bus Trip, 3:00 P.M., Howard Park Recreation Center

Celebrating Women’s History Month

W Th

U-Can Paint 2 Fundraiser for Relay For Life, 7:00 P.M., U-Can Paint 2, South Bend

M Tu

14 17

(Information found at www.genderacrossborders.com.)

What We Are

Brit Floyd- Space & Time World Tour 2015, 7:30 P.M., Morris Performing Arts Center

Saint Patrick’s Day Treats

Monty Python’s Spamalot, 7:30 P.M., South Bend Civic Theatre

F Sa

• Plant beautiful trees in your backyard.

Laser Dark Side of the Moon, 8:00 P.M., PHM Digital Video Theater/Planetarium

Irish Crème Cake Pops National Chocolate Covered Raisin Day

• Recycle unwanted wire hangers.

www.alterdelenda.blogspot.com

• Keep your fireplace damper closed. Mint Chocolate Chip CheeseCake Brownies

Murder Mystery Dinner Fundraiser, 6:00 P.M., Friends of the Bristol Public Library

www.sallysbaking addiction.com

• Recycle your newspaper.

• Turn off lights if you are no longer in that particular room.

Save Our Planet • Wash clothes in cold water and hang dry.

International Earth Day

Help March 20th is International Earth Day! Save our planet with these simple life changes!

3. From 1910 to 1925, the majority of blues singers were women.

Saint Patrick’s Day

4. Wyoming was the first state to grant women the right to vote.

Pinning:

National Pi Day

Zumba, 6:00 P.M., The Salvation Army, Elkhart

1. 17% of the Congressional and Senate seats are held by women and 18% of the gubernatorial positions in the United States.

5. Women often wrote under “pen names” during the time period 2. Over 60% percent of where it was looked college degrees are earned down upon women by women each year. contributing to literature.

Meditation Yoga, 5:30 P.M., Elkhart Environmental Center

Sa Su

The Writing Group, 5:00 P.M., Niles District Library

March is Women’s History Month! Below are five facts showing the struggles and successes that women have encountered in society:

The American Motorcycle: The Ride Goes On, All Day, Studebaker National Museum

Take A Walk In The Park Day

31 MARCH 2015 | boom

Shamrock Whoopie Pies www.homeishweretheholmansare. blogspot.com

• Invest in cloth grocery bags instead of using plastic bags. • Pay your bills online instead of through the mail. • Use rechargeable batteries.

(Information found at www.50waystohelp.com.)

The FAMILY Magazine Presents…

2015

The Virtual Camp & Kids' Care Fair starts February 28th and will continue to be online throughout 2015!

Join Us!

Camps  Summer School  Summer Workshops  Classes & s  Daycare amps  Athletic C s  Art Camp Camps  Specialty ed Camps  Faith Bas ps  Day Cam re!  Many Mo

There will be contests and giveaways during the month of March on www.michianamom.com and FAMILY Magazine’s Facebook page!

Want a reminder? Sign up to receive the FAMILY Magazine’s eblast reminders on the homepage of their website! Come visit all of your local and regional summer camps for your grandkids in the comfort of your own home!

boom

Healthy Living

Coping with

Tough Times

Depression is a disease—not a weakness Feeling temporarily sad or depressed in response to a loss, failure or disappointment is part of being human. But every year, five to eight percent of U.S. adults—about 25 million—experience major depression, or clinical depression. Depression isn’t a sad mood or a bad case of the blues. It is a serious medical illness that can affect a person’s thoughts, feelings, behavior, mood and physical health. Left untreated, depression can impair a person’s ability to function at work or in day-to-day activities and, in some cases, leads to suicide. Yet only half of those 25 million people seek help.

By: Michael G. Workman, MSN, MHA, R.N.

Many times, they simply don’t realize they need help. Many people have felt sad or down in the past and noticed that activities like exercising, going away for a weekend, taking a nap or talking to a friend made them feel better. We’ve all had feelings of sadness pass before—it’s part of the human experience—so people think it will always pass. There’s really no way of knowing that it’s getting more serious. Depression is nothing to be ashamed of—it’s not a sign of weakness or failure. It’s a complex disease with many possible causes including faulty mood regulation by the brain, genetics, stressful life events, medications, age, sex, substance abuse, medical issues or a combination of these forces. While people who have clinical depression have a higher probability of experiencing additional episodes within their lifetime, in most cases the symptoms are treatable through medication, psychotherapy or, in more extreme cases, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Recognizing the symptoms is a critical step in getting help: • Changes in sleep patterns—sleep disruptions, too much or too little sleep • Changes in appetite—weight loss or weight gain • Poor concentration—inability to concentrate or make decisions • Loss of energy—decline in mental and physical speed and ability • Lack of interest—no longer participating in activities once enjoyed • Low self-esteem—strong focus on memories of failures and losses • Hopelessness and guilt—feeling that things will never improve, feeling suicidal • Change in movement—either very slow-moving or overly active and agitated

If you or someone you know is experiencing any symptoms commonly associated with clinical depression, please get help. 8

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“Depres

sion is nothin g to be ashame d of!”

Healthy Living Tips 1. Peppermint oil. Tame tension headaches by rubbing peppermint oil into your temples. It contains menthol, which has analgesic properties. 2. Chitchat. Engaging in casual conversation with others may help keep you as sharp as doing a word puzzle, according to some studies. Just 10 minutes of daily chatter appears to improve mental function and preserve memory. 3. Just breathe. Give yourself five minutes to just breathe … slowly. Sit quietly with your eyes closed and slowly inhale through your nose and exhale through your mouth. Deep breathing slows your heart rate and lowers blood pressure, countering the negative effects of stress. 4. Get out. Spending time outdoors is an easy way to gain some perspective. Nature is a great diversion from daily obligations and even a few minutes of fresh air can make you feel better. 5. Get some ZZZs. You may not be checking things off your to-do list while you’re snoozing, but without at least a few hours a night, your productivity and your health will suffer. If sleep deprivation becomes chronic, you may increase your risk for depression and other anxiety disorders. 6. Move your body. You don’t have to run 10 miles to experience runner’s high. Movement, even if it’s just a 15- or 20-minute walk, can improve symptoms of anxiety and depression. Take a walk on your lunch break every day for a week and feel the difference!

7. Tune in. Whether you’re meditating to soothing music or the sounds of nature, dancing in your living room or singing at the top of your lungs in the car, music has healing power. Research shows that calming music can lower blood pressure, heart rate and anxiety levels. 8. Keep a gratitude journal. The best way to combat negative thoughts and worries is to count your blessings. Write down happy memories, things you are grateful for and looking forward to, your accomplishments, and hopes and dreams in a gratitude journal (include pictures of loved ones), and read it whenever you start feeling stressed. Being reminded of what really matters helps put trivial worries in their places. 9. BONUS: Put “fun” on your calendar — in indelible ink. Your calendar is filled with meetings, appointments and obligations. But remember to make time for date night with your spouse, girls’ night out, or sitting on the couch watching a funny movie. Laughter truly is the best medicine. It lowers blood pressure, improves breathing and memory, boosts your immune system, promotes sleep and regulates your heartbeat. boom | MARCH 2015

boom

Healthy Living

The

IMPORTANCE of a

COLONOSCOPY By: Margo Bell

Colonoscopy. We Boomers may trip over the word but just about all of us have heard of this important test

for detecting colorectal cancer. Since its inception in 1969, thousands of people have undergone the procedure. Excluding skin cancers, colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths when men and women are considered separately, and the second leading cause of cancer when both cancers are combined, according to The American Cancer Society. Moreover, the organization estimates that this year 96,830 new cases of colon cancer and 40,000 new cases of rectal cancer will be diagnosed.

As March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, Boom Magazine asked Dr. John Mathis, Gastroenterologist with Michiana Gastroenterology, Inc., in South Bend for information:

What Is a Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a procedure that uses a flexible tube to look throughout the colon to identify abnormalities such as polyps or early-stage colon cancer. Removing polyps can decrease the risk of a person getting colorectal cancer. In the last ten years incidence has gone down about 3.8% for men and 3.4% for women, thanks to an increase in the number and frequency of colonoscopies.

At What Age and How Often Should Someone Get a Colonoscopy?

Each person may be different, but in general you should get a first colonoscopy at age 50 providing there is no increase in risk, such as a direct family member who had colon cancer. If a parent or sibling had colon cancer, get a colonoscopy ten years before the diagnosis of that personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cancer; for example, if the family member was diagnosed at 40, you should have a screening at age 30. 10

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As far as frequency, patients with gastroenterological disorders such as chronic colitis, Crohnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Disease, and ulcerative colitis should screen every 8-10 years. If the colonoscopy reveals multiple polyps, the exam should be repeated every three years or sooner, and every year for those with chronic ulcers. Some physicians believe that those people with a strong history of breast of other cancers have a higher risk of colorectal cancer as well and should be monitored more frequently. But if you have a negative colonoscopy, you can go every ten years. It all depends on the patient.

What Does the Doctor Look For in the Procedure?

If the patient has chronic diarrhea, we look for inflammatory bowel disease. We also look for chronic diverticulosis and polyps. Polyps can be hereditary and as you get older you get a higher risk of developing

“Colonoscopy preparation is easier these days that it was in the past.” them. Smoking, a low-fiber diet, a sedentary lifestyle, and some drugs may increase polyp formation.

How Long Does the Procedure Take and Get Results?

A colonoscopy takes from half and hour to an hour, depending on if polyps were discovered, how long it takes to remove them, and how well prepared the patient was prior to the test. We look at the polyps. A large polyp can present a higher risk of problems. A pathologist can determine the kind of polyp, usually within a week of the procedure. If it’s determined to be cancer, the next step is to meet with a surgeon to see if part of the colon must be removed.

How Does Someone Prepare For a Colonoscopy?

Colonoscopy preparation is easier these days that it was in the past. Before, you had to take a gallon of special prep liquid, but now the volume of fluid needed, such as MoviPrep or

Golytely, has decreased. The important thing is to get completely “cleaned out.” This usually involves some form of laxative with half a dose taken the evening prior to the test, the other half on the morning just prior to the test. By splitting the doses the colon gets emptied better. For the most part the patient also goes on a clear liquid diet. During the colonoscopy the patient is usually sedated, either with a general anesthetic or with conscious sedation. Most experience twilight sleep. We ask that they don’t drive that day but can resume a regular diet after the procedure.

How About Cost?

Colonoscopies are covered by insurance, including Medicare.

Are There Alternatives to the Colonoscopy?

A barium enema can be administered but it can miss lesions. Another procedure is a CT (Computed Tomography) Enterography, a CAT scan that gives the virtual appearance of a colon but is not as good as a colonoscopy. Another device, PillCam, takes two pictures/second for about 50,000 pictures, but it doesn’t show the stomach very well. The small intestine isn’t much of a problem compared to the colon.

What Are Some Symptoms of Colon Cancer?

These include changes in bowel habits such as blood in the stool, painful cramps, diarrhea, anemia, and thinly shaped stools.

What Are Excuses People Give Not to Get a Colonoscopy?

They don’t like the preparation (clear liquid diet, ingesting of laxatives and prep fluid); fear of pain (the procedure is virtually painless); don’t want to take the time off from work or other obligations (usually just one day off is all that’s needed); and fear of what the test will reveal (not knowing is far worse!). (Author’s Note): Another excuse is having to depend on someone for transportation. Medical offices have been known to tell colonoscopy patients not to even rely on taxis.

Dr. Mathis Continues: These days it’s almost fashionable to have a colonoscopy! Ronald Reagan, Katie Couric, and other celebrities have increased the awareness of a colonoscopy to save lives. The colonoscopy has become so standard that you don’t have to tell people what it is. ••• boom | MARCH 2015

boom

Healthy Living

Common Athletic Injuries of the Foot and Ankle

ith the nice weather comes the urge to get outside and get active! Depending on Michiana weather, March is sometimes when many of you are ready to get your yards in shape and move your workouts outdoors. But even if there is still a foot of snow on the ground, cabin fever may have you itching to be out of the house! Working or exercising too hard after a long winter of inactivity can lead to sore muscles or worse, injury. This is the time of year when I see many patients who’ve injured themselves in the simple act of trying to get some exercise or have some fun. We all know that exercise is good for us. Not only does it tone your body so you can fit into your favorite jeans, it strengthens your muscles, keeps your bones strong, and improves your skin health. Exercise is also known to increase relaxation, improve sleep and mood, and build stronger immune functions. What is often not mentioned is the wear and tear on the body as a result of exercise, especially if performed with poor technique or inadequate equipment. From recreational athletes to weekend warriors, the demands made on your feet and lower limbs can lead to a range of injuries and problems.

Sprains, …

Whether you jog, play tennis, regularly work out, or just enjoy nature walks, you are putting stress on your lower legs and feet. It is estimated that during a one mile run, your feet will strike the ground 1,000 times each and the force of impact is about three-to-four times your weight. This type of impact builds up over time in your bones, muscles, and cartilage creating strain and possibly tears. 12

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By: James Flynn, M.D. Ankle sprains are one of the most common foot and ankle injuries seen in active baby boomers. A sprain is a stretch injury of the ligaments that support the ankle. The ligaments on the outside of the ankle are most commonly injured when the foot is turned inward. Usually the ankle will be swollen and tender on the outside, below, and just in front of the ankle bone. A sprain may be mild, causing only modest pain or discomfort, or severe enough to prevent weightbearing. If not properly rehabilitated, a sprain can become a repetitive injury. Mild sprains, and many other athletic injuries, are treated with the RICE method. • • • •

Rest and avoid aggravating the injury Ice for 20-30 minutes each hour Compression Elevate if possible to help reduce swelling

Other treatments include protecting the area from further injury and anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin or ibuprofen. If you are unable to bear weight or if the ankle fails to improve within several days, it is time to see a physician.

Strains …

Do you have heel pain as you take your first step out of bed in the morning? How about when walking again after resting from a walking or running activity? If so, there is a good chance you have plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia consists of dense bands of tissue deep below the skin and spans the entire bottom of your foot, supplying support to the arch of the foot. This tissue can become strained from overuse, unsupportive footwear, and exercising on hard surfaces. This condition is also prevalent in

boomers who have high arches, flat feet, are overweight, or roll their feet inward when walking. This can result in micro-tears, causing chronic irritation, inflammation, and pain near your heel. Surgery is rarely necessary and there are many at-home treatments that help with this condition. Custom shoe inserts or orthotics may be needed to support your arch and heel. Stretching exercises can increase the flexibility of the plantar fascia and calf muscles. Massage the bottom of your foot by rolling it over a tube-shaped object with a diameter of 3-to-4 inches. A rolling pin works nicely for this. And just like an ankle sprain, the RICE method, along with antiinflammatory medications, can help reduce the symptoms. Do toe stretches, calf stretches, and towel stretches several times a day, especially when you first get up in the morning. Also, it may be time for a new pair of shoes. Pick shoes with good arch support and a cushioned sole.

And Tendinitis

Achilles tendinitis is a condition of irritation and inflammation of the large tendon in the back of the ankle. It is a common injury that occurs in recreational athletes. Overuse of the Achilles tendon can cause inflammation that can lead to pain and swelling. The main complaint is pain behind the heel. Boomers with this condition usually experience the most significant pain after periods of inactivity, but you may also experience the pain during physical activity. The most common causes of Achilles tendinitis are a lack of flexibility and overpronation, which is excessive inward rolling of your foot while walking or running. Recently changing your athletic footwear and changing your exercise schedule can be factors in this condition. This can be a common condition for someone just starting an outdoor running program after a long winter of limited activity. It takes time for our bodies to adapt to a new routine. The first step in reducing pain is to decrease or even stop the activities that make the pain worse. If you regularly do highimpact exercises (such as running), switching to low-impact activities will put less stress on the Achilles tendon. Crosstraining activities such as biking or swimming are low-impact options to help you stay active. Icing and non-steroidal antiinflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, can help reduce pain and swelling. Remember to wear the right shoes for your activity, warm up and cool down with stretching exercises, and listen to your body. Hopefully I have provided you with some helpful tips on staying injury-free while getting ready for spring. And in Michiana, spring could be right around the corner or a few weeks away! •••

AVOIDING FOOT AND ANKLE INJURIES • Training Errors: This includes improper or lack of stretching before and after exercise. It can also include poor technique when exercising or playing sports. • Improper Equipment: Make sure your equipment is correct for the activity, especially your shoes! Your exercise shoes should fit properly and be comfortable when you try them on. Remember, you should NOT have to break them in! • Change in Routine: The most common cause of sports injuries is a dramatic change in your routine. Did you switch surfaces in your run or increase the distance? Did you start playing for longer periods of time or more often each week? • Proper Rest: The body needs proper cool-down between high intensity workouts. Stretch, drink plenty of liquids, and allow your body to rest properly before your next sports activity. • No Pain, No Gain: This is NOT a proper mantra for athletic activity! If a body part is sore or swollen, then something is wrong. You need to evaluate your training routine and make appropriate changes to avoid long-term injury. • Know Your Body: Regardless of your type of activity, the best prevention is knowing your body. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort during or after your activity, there may be something wrong. boom | MARCH 2015

boom

Healthy Living

For Your Eyes Only Good news! When it comes to your vision, there’s a lot to look forward to!

By: Dr. Richard C. Boling

s we move closer to retirement and birthdays seem to come faster, many things in our lives are better than ever. We get more time to spend with friends and family, less frenzy from the workforce hassle, and the chance to try new things! Many of us pursue longawaited hobbies and enjoy life more than ever. The beauty of a summer's day (or even a snowy day!) brings us joy. As spring approaches, we look forward to exploring new things and enjoying Mother Nature. However, we also have to be keenly aware of our health and the changes that aging brings. This includes taking care of our eyes. As we move through our 50s and especially into the 60s, our risk for the development of cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration increases. This is the threshold age at which susceptibility to visually-disabling conditions, as well as systemic health issues, requires ongoing and careful attention.

See The Big Picture

For adults in their 50s and 60s, the number one priority with respect to eye health should be awareness. Changes can happen very slowly and sometimes without noticeable symptoms. When this occurs, there could be irreversible damage resulting in permanent loss of vision. You may never even have a warning that something is wrong. That’s the scary part. At the very least, then, mature adults and seniors should make sure they are getting an eye exam every single year. Those with one or more significant risk factors, especially diabetes, are urged to schedule an appointment with their eye care practitioner every six to nine months. Regular routine eye examinations can go far toward early detection of, and treatment for, many serious eye diseases. Here’s the bright side: as technology advances, sometimes eye doctors are able to discover and diagnose a medical issue before a primary care physician does. When we look closely at the eyes, we can see evidence of things like tumors, multiple sclerosis, high blood pressure, diabetes, heart problems, circulation problems and blood problems – all of which may have serious implications for deterioration of health in general and of the eyes in particular. Your eye doctor and your physician should work together and share the results of your examinations. 14

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Sometimes you will have warning signs that your eye health may be compromised. Take notice when you are driving, especially at night. Are you bothered by glare from oncoming traffic? Do you have trouble finding curb-cuts on dimly lit roads? When sitting down to read, do you experience any greyness or blurriness under certain light conditions? Do you have floaters, flashes, distorted images, frequent changes or fluctuations in vision or any loss of vision (side/peripheral or central), light sensitivity or pain? Any of these signs and symptoms is reason to visit your eye doctor promptly. Early treatment can help prevent irreversible damage. Don’t lose sight of your risk factors! If you have a family history of, or genetic predisposition toward, certain eye conditions, you should pay special attention to any warning signs. Those of African-American and Hispanic descent carry a higher risk for particular eye diseases. Medical conditions like diabetes and hypertension, as well as autoimmune diseases, increase the risk for eye problems. Even some prescription medications used to manage ongoing issues can negatively affect your vision. Social factors, such as tobacco and alcohol use, can lead to compromised eye health. Participation in visually demanding or eye-hazardous activities, either recreationally or professionally, also puts your eyes at risk. When it comes to the big picture, keep your eyes wide open – know your risk factors, pay heed to warning signs and signals and be sure to schedule an eye exam in 2015.

Peek-A-Boo, I See You!

Let’s take a look at several parts of the eye and how vision works, when our eyes are healthy. Each eye has an optic nerve, which is only a little over a millimeter in circumference, yet contains more than one million nerve fibers! The optic nerve is like the cable on your TV, bringing the signal into your house and translating it into a picture on your screen. In a healthy eye, the optic nerve brings the “signal” into the back of your brain where it’s translated into an image, and you see what’s around you. If anything happens to that nerve, then the signals are interrupted and your vision is altered or lessened.

There are a lot of things that can contribute to nerve fiber damage – glaucoma, a tumor, an injury, poor circulation. You can lose, say, 100,000 of those million nerve fibers and it may never affect your vision. But if you lose enough, for whatever reason, there can be significant implications for your eye function and health. The ability to see at all depends upon your eyes’ capacity for receiving light. Light comes into your eye through the cornea. The light is bent by the front and back parts of the cornea, then bent again by the front and back parts of the lens. In a perfect eye, it’s then focused on the retina. That light-energy is then transformed into electrical energy (remember your wave-particle dualism from high school physics class?) which is transported back along the optic nerve, crosses and divides, and arrives at the occipital cortex. This is the “computer” where vision is interpreted, and your brain translates the energy into an image. Our eyes perform amazing, incredibly complex functions all the time, without even having to think about it.

Seeing Is Believing

After the light enters the eye and is bent, but before it is converted to an electrical impulse and sent to the brain, it passes through the photoreceptors in the retina. If you are seeing squiggly lines instead of straight lines and sharp angles where you know they ought to be – like in doorways – something in the retina is making the photoreceptors bend.

So don’t hide your eyes when it comes to looking into your ocular function and health. You’ll see that educating yourself can reveal a whole new horizon.

Now You See, Now You Don't

Let’s briefly examine some of the most common factors that can contribute to vision loss. During an exam, your eye doctor will look closely at the retinal grounds to see if there’s any obstruction of the vessels, called Hollenhorst plaque, which is commonly associated with high blood pressure. As the light shines across the back of the eye, this plaque just glimmers at you, like here I am! That’s a sign that there’s something in the heart or the carotid artery that has worked its way downstream. Certain blood pressure medications lower the blood pressure enough during sleep that you may have trouble perfusing your optic nerve (that is, moving blood properly through the vessels). CPAP treatment can be really helpful here in terms of facilitating oxygenation of the heart, brain, and eyes. Diabetes or hypertensive changes can cause knots of bleeding or hemorrhage in the eyes. The result is “Swiss cheese-vision,” where you can see in one area but you can’t see in another. If you have blood sugar or blood pressure issues, you are strongly encouraged to see your eye doctor at least once a year, if not more frequently, in order to monitor your eye health and check for bleeding.

“The ability to see at all depends upon your eyes’ capacity for receiving light.”

The photoreceptors in a retina should be like a perfectlymanicured lawn: each blade of grass evenly distributed, the same height, pointing straight up. If, say, you have standing water around a sprinkler-head, the blades of grass will bend in different directions. Similarly, fluid around photoreceptors causes them to be in different relations to each other and then things look magnified, minified or just distorted. Contrary to popular assumption, a cataract is actually the focusing lens in the eye, not a film or a skin over the eye (although it does get hazy over time from UV radiation and changes in metabolism). A cataract is a lot like a cherry – it’s got a skin, a pit and a pulp. When we do cataract surgery, we make a little circular opening in the front of that cataract and remove the pit and the pulp. That leaves a clear baggy, the skin of the regular cataract. We insert the lens implant and that clear baggy holds it. If you live long enough, you’re going to need cataract replacement. However, “getting cataracts” is one of the most exciting things about aging because of the new technology for lens implants! Even if you’ve worn glasses your whole life, with the right lens technology, you could be able to see close up and far away without corrective lenses: it’s really cool!

Multiple sclerosis contributes to the breakdown or loss of the myelin sheath around the optic nerve. This is like losing the insulation around an electrical wire in a plug. The impulses can’t travel as accurately or completely to the brain when that sheath is compromised, and that can adversely affect your vision.

Diseases like diabetic retinopathy and hypertensive retinopathy, nuclear sclerosis, macular degeneration, posterior sub capsular cataracts, acute/angle-closure glaucoma and others can arise without warning, especially the more risk factors you have. So remember, any changes or loss of vision ought to be promptly addressed with your eye care professional.

The Eyes Have It They’re the window to your soul and your window to the world. Treat them with care. •••

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the traveler

The L Car No. 1 is displayed in the "Chicago: Crossroads of America," exhibit, one of the museum's permanent exhibits.

Day Trip:

Photos Provided By: Pyhllis Rose

Chicago History Museum The Magnificent Mile. The Chicago Institute of

Arts. The Field Museum. Museum of Science and Industry. If you’ve been there, done that in Chicago, it’s time to expand your horizons and discover how the city and its iconic sites got started. The perfect place to educate yourself about Chicago’s history is the Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark St. Dave and I, whom Dave once described as an Olympic Shopping Team, have long loved shopping the Magnificent Mile, so we started our museum visit at the special exhibit, “Chicago Styled: Fashioning The Magnificent Mile,” featuring over 20 wonderful fashions from the museum’s costume collection. The exhibit tells the story of the development of The Magnificent Mile about which the Chicago Tribune said in 1938 that with the opening of Neiman Marcus, the district was “rapidly becoming a who’s who of American retailing.” The exhibit chronicles the rise and fall of Magnificent Mile retailers, but the dresses quickly captured our attention. Imagine an ensemble with rhinestones and 100,000 round and baroque pearls, designed in 1970 by Elinor Simmons; or a black and gold evening gown made of metal mesh, designed by Gianni Versace and donated to the museum upon the opening of his Chicago boutique in 1986. 16

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By: Phyllis Rose

Since Dave is a railroad history buff, our next stop was another special exhibit, “Railroaders: Jack Delano’s Homefront Photography.” In 1942, the Office of War Information assigned Delano to tell the story of railroads and the people working for them through photographs, most of which he took in Chicago. The photographs, some black and white and others in color, are captivating. I especially enjoyed learning about the people in the photos such as Charles Sawer, a gateman who was also an interpreter for the many immigrants traveling through Chicago since he spoke not only English, but also Yiddish, Polish, German, Russian, Czech, Slovak, and Spanish. In 1943, Delano also spent time with the Sinise family to photograph the everyday life of a railroad worker’s family. Those photographs are shown on a touch-screen kiosk. After the railroad exhibit, we traveled back to the1860s to explore “Lincoln’s Chicago,” especially appropriate as the nation commemorates the 150th anniversary of the Civil War and Lincoln’s assassination on April 14, 1865. In this gallery, we saw various paintings and lithographs portraying Chicago people and the city Lincoln would have known. We saw a painting of Joseph Medill, a Lincoln supporter and editor of the Chicago Tribune. For Dave, this was special because he graduated from Northwestern’s Medill School of Journalism.

Fashions from the museum's costume collection are displayed in the “Chicago Styled: Fashioning The Magnificent Mile" exhibit.

Paintings of John and Mary Jones, free blacks and abolitionists who were honorary pallbearers at Lincoln’s funeral, are also on display. At a touch-screen kiosk, we were able to visit Lincoln’s Chicago and see the various areas as they would have been in the 1860s. By this time, we needed a break so we had lunch at the North & Clark Cafe, located inside the museum, near the gift shop. That was fortunate because the line was long at the cafe so we browsed the gift shop until the line was shorter and a table was available. It was worth the wait as Dave enjoyed his grilled chicken sandwich and I my ham and cheese Panini.

Our last stop in the Foundation Diorama Hall provided a miniature summary of Chicago’s history through the dioramas depicting Chicago’s rise from a frontier village in 1804 to a vibrant city hosting the World’s Columbian Exposition in 1893. Two of my favorite dioramas are the Chicago Fire and the Columbian Exposition. Blazing red flames show the ferocity of the fire as it heads toward the buildings along the lakeshore. In the Columbian Exposition diorama, a serene moon lights up the beautiful buildings of the exposition. The dioramas were a perfect summary to our Chicago history day.

online research, but later I discovered this restaurant is located in a historic building, built in 1895 and designed by Henry Ives Cobb in the Dutch Renaissance style, the only remaining 19th century example left in Chicago.

Looking for a place for dinner, we chose Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse, 33 W. Kinzie St. Expecting a sports-themed bar, we were surprised at the elegant white tablecloths and wonderful service. And the food was just as exquisite. We started with soup - Italian wedding for Dave, and lentil for me, followed by spaghetti and meatballs for Dave and chicken parmigiana for me.

That’s fine with me because one day of discovering Chicago history isn’t enough. One day just whets your appetite for more, including more good food at Harry Caray’s. •••

After dinner, we looked at Harry Caray memorabilia, including his drink diary where he recorded everyone he drank within one year, over 1200 as I recall. I guess that’s part of the job when you’re the announcer for the Chicago Cubs.

So our restaurant choice tied in with Chicago history. For any baseball fan, Caray is definitely part of the city’s history, Refreshed, we headed back into the museum as is the restaurant site on W. Kinzie. Since our restaurant choice was made on to the permanent exhibit, “Chicago: the spur of the moment, I hadn’t done any Crossroads of America,” a highlight of our visit. First, we climbed aboard the L Car No. 1 and Dave reminisced about his younger days in Chicago riding the El.

The building’s other tie to Chicago history is that Al Capone’s enforcer, Frank Nitti, lived there from 1939 to 1943. Today, diners can visit Frank Nitti’s Vault, containing artifacts relating to Chicago gangsters. When I told Dave we had missed this, he said, “We’ll have to go back.”

For more info: Chicago History Museum 312-642-4600 www.chicagohistory.org Note: The “Chicago Styled” exhibit runs through August 16 and the “Railroaders” through August 10. Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse 773-HOLY-COW (465-9269) www.harrycarays.com

Through other displays, we lived through the city’s various crises from the Chicago Fire in 1871 to the Haymarket Race Riot in 1919 to the Democratic National Convention in 1968. A softer side of Chicago is shown in the video, “Sweet Home Chicago,” as Chicagoans tell what they enjoy about their neighborhoods. In “My Kind of Town,” we learned about the city’s music and theater history. My favorite part was sitting at a small table in the Chicago Jazz and Blues Club watching videos of jazz musicians such as Louis Armstrong and Muddy Waters. Dave loved this, too, since he has been a lifelong jazz fan, at one time even hosting a jazz radio program.

Historical exhibits in the museum's foyer.

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hobbies

By: Evie Kirkwood

t took some encouragement, but Jan McGowan started dancing when she was eight years old. She was interested in tap and resisted ballet lessons until her mother agreed to teach her. “Mom said ‘you can’t learn one without the other,’” and so began Jan’s love of dance. “It turns out she was a very accomplished dancer!” says Jan of her mother who taught dance in Northbrook, Illinois. Jan is still an avid dancer although she admits she took some time off while her own children were young. She has taught tap and today leads kids in dance activities at the Boys and Girls Club in South Bend as a way to help them be active. She and her husband Jeff also enjoy social dancing as a way to be active, and enjoy the company of others. Social dance has a long history in the United States, including folk, Latin, line, swing and ballroom dance. Some “fad” dances like the Charleston have come and gone, but other “classics” endure the span of time, such as the waltz and foxtrot.

“Dancing ral e v e s s e combin t keep a h t s g n i th s our brain healthy.”

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Jan enjoys the social dance experience because its “joyful.” She notes that for Boomers and beyond, it combines several things that keep our brains healthy: “There’s movement, music, learning new patterns, and being with other people.”

Getting Started

You are never too old to learn and participate in social dancing. No particular fitness level is required. “If you can move, you can dance,” laughs Jan. She recalls a woman in her 80s who had lost all her vision, but enjoyed the movement and music and often attended open dance gatherings with her son. And she knows a widower who used to participate in dance parties with his wife, and continues attending on his own because dance was, and still is, an important part of his enjoyment of life.

Places to Learn and Dance

As we age, we stop taking risks. “We need to shake off self-consciousness and try new things,” stresses Jan who also has been involved in Memorial Hospital’s BrainWorks and Sage-ing facilitations.

Dancehipology Offers one or two group ballroom classes per week; occasional dance parties as well. Private lessons available. 121 South Niles, South Bend www.dancehipology.com.

Parks and recreation centers and YMCAs sometimes offer basic classes at a low cost. Places like DanceSport, Dan O’Day Dance Club, MichianaDdance, Flint Dance Studio and Dancehipology, all in the Michiana area, offer private and group lessons as well. There are also several local places to dance where everyone is happy to share and teach each other. You don’t need to come with a partner for many of them. “Just show up,” Jan encourages.

USA Dance Monthly dance get-togethers, fall through spring, are typically held at the BK Club in Mishawaka. Doors open at 3 P.M. with a complimentary lesson from 3:30 to 4:15 P.M., followed by open dancing. http://southbendvalleydancers.com

At an open dance “party” typically there is a DJ who selects music from old pop standards to more contemporary styles. A small per-person fee, around $10, helps cover the cost of the DJ and hall rental. You don’t need any special equipment, just comfortable clothes and shoes.

Memorial Health & Lifestyle Center Senior Line Dancing, 2 - 3 P.M. Tuesdays beginning March 6th. Beginners are required to attend a complimentary personal instruction class prior to attending the class. The classes are in the Aerobics Room, 3rd Floor, 111 W. Jefferson Blvd., South Bend. Call 574-2917539 to schedule instruction.

Get the sleazy dance bar scene out of your mind. These dance gatherings don’t include alcohol and are smoke-free. Everyone is there to have good clean fun. Often around 50 people will show up, including groups of friends, singles and couples, with a range of dance experience from zero to accomplished. All ages join in, from teens to octogenarians. Step out onto the dance floor and give it a try. •••

That’s Dancing Located on S. Main Street in Elkhart offers lessons and open dances. www.thatsdancingstudio.com Membership-Based Clubs for Couples The 100 Club Founded in 1894, it’s the oldest dance club in South Bend, and features formal attire and live music at a variety of locations. www.onehundreddanceclub.com “Guys and Dolls” Often meets at St. Joseph School in Mishawka or the South Bend Elks Club. Events include formal and non-formal attire dinner dances or hors d’ oeuvres. www.dancing.does.it Debbie Werbrouck's School of Dance Debbie Werbrouck's School of Dance & Music has been nurturing students of all ages since 1968. Please call 574-247-1590. www.danceeducation.net Southold Dance Theater Contact Southold Dance Theater regarding class schedule and requirements at 574-233-9841. www.southolddance.org Conservatory of Dance The Conservatory of Dance is committed to bringing first class dance to the Michiana area. Please call 574-273-8888 for more information. www.conservatoryofdance.org

Sugar Camp Days March 21-22, 2015 Bendix Woods County Park Timothy Rd off State Rd 2, New Carlisle IN

Pancake Breakfast • Visit the Sugar House • Artisan Demonstrations Wagon Rides • Entertainment • Crafts for Kids • Baked Goods Maple Sloppy Joes • Maple Syrup for Sale

sjcparks.org $7/vehicle 8am-3pm (574) 654-3155

VisitSouthBend.com

for area hotel and dining info boom | MARCH 2015

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hobbies

or years, my mother and I wondered why my knitting was “weird.” We finally figured out that being a left handed knitter in a right handed world is challenging. Hence, my knitting tended to be tight and twisted, not amenable to projects like baby blankets or sweaters!

By: Rita Miller

The entire problem came to a tipping point in 1975. I was a junior in high school and I made the mistake of taking a Home Economics class. Items covered included cooking, baking, ironing and sewing. The sewing project was to make a button up jacket and pants set, with hand knitted collar, cuffs and waistband on the jacket! Even if you paid me today, I don’t think I could recreate that project! I chose a blue seersucker fabric with baby blue yarn for the knitted pieces. I don’t even like blue, and I’m not sure seersucker is even produced today, but I forged ahead with what I had chosen. Sewing the jacket was bad enough. Even if Diane von Furstenberg could have helped me, I would have never been able to sew a jacket and pants set that would be fitted and fashionable. Add to that a twisted mass of blue yarn knitted to resemble a waistband, collar and cuffs and you have a hot mess! I left knitting behind for a long time. About 10 years ago, a friend of mine had a relative who owned a yarn store. This was not yarn that I saw in the stores around town. This was brilliantly colored, some was fringed, some was actual ribbon and all of them were mesmerizing. I started with a scarf. For this first project, I used two yarns, one a standard yarn in a solid color. The other yarn was a ribbon yarn, brightly colored. I relaxed my hands as I knitted (maybe because it was a fun project, not a Home Ec requirement) and found that I could create a beautiful handmade scarf. A scarf that I would wear and a project that I found relaxing! This first project led me to many scarves and even ponchos! My daughters started to knit and we spent hours looking through stores for just the right yarn. By this time, this fancy yarn was carried in multiple stores. Fancy yarn has fancy names too. One of my favorite yarn is “Eyelash” because it has beautiful fringes. One of my favorite scarf creations was a plain black yarn knitted with a gold lame eyelash. I gave it to a Purdue friend who was thrilled!

“A scarf that I would wear and a project that I found relaxing!”

If you are looking for a relaxing hobby, maybe knitting is for you!

Here are a few helpful hints: 1. Knitting needles are sold by size, in pairs. A “10” is thicker than a “1” in the United States, but opposite in Britain. A “10” will give you a looser knit than a thinner needle. I like medium sized needles. 2. Yarn is sold by the skein, but needs wound into a ball to begin your project. 3. Start with a scarf. Cast on twenty stitches, knit enough to wrap around your neck, cast off and enjoy! 4. Have confidence. You don’t have to create a Picasso to be proud of your work.

I hope these ideas give you an interest in knitting. You can enjoy this until gardening season arrives!

boom | MARCH 2015

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hobbies

Some Things

EASTWOOD By: Margo and Jim Bell

Clint Eastwood is like the Energizer Bunny. At age 84 (turns 85 this May) and after starring in 60 movies, directing/producing 38 and composing for at least 10, he keeps on going and going, a delight for his fans.

So—do you feel lucky? Have fun with this challenge! Match up these oft-quoted lines with their movies (not all are from Clint himself): 1. If you’re going to shoot, shoot—don’t talk!

a. Unforgiven (1992)

2. Go ahead. Make my day.

b. Dirty Harry (1971)

3. You’re not dumping me, Buster Blue Eyes!

c. American Sniper (2014)

4. I ain’t gonna kill you, kid. You’re the only friend I got.

d. The Rookie (1990)

5. You have to ask yourself: Do I feel lucky?

e. Sudden Impact (1983)

6. If you want a guarantee, buy a toaster.

f. Changeling (2008)

7. Did you kill my son?

g. Play Misty For Me (1971)

8. I’m ready to come home, Baby.

h. The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly (1967)

What was Eastwood’s first movie? a. Tarantula b. Revenge of the Creature c. Francis in the Navy d. Ambush at Cimarron Pass e. Away All Boats

How many “Dirty Harry” movies were made? a. five b. six c. seven d. four

What was Eastwood’s directorial debut? a. Escape from Alcatraz b. Dirty Harry c. Thunderbolt and Lightfoot d. Where Eagles Dare e. Play Misty For Me

How many children does Clint Eastwood have? a. four b. five c. seven d. eight e. ten

BONUS CHALLENGE: Get out your Scrabble® boards and rearrange CLINT EASTWOOD to form an appropriate three-word anagram. 22

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Which of the following is not true about Clint Eastwood? a. He’s a Jr., named after his father. b. He wore the same poncho—unwashed— in three “man with no name” westerns. c. As a director he finishes films on schedule and within budget. d. He speaks fluent Italian. e. He’s a talented jazz pianist. f. He’s a vegetarian. g. He was mayor of Carmel-by-the-Sea, California.

Answers on page 25.

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Pets

The Elkhart Humane Society Needs Your Help!

Loving animals are in need of families!

CASANOVA: Hello, I am

named after a famous lover and we are destined to be together. I am young, only two years old, and neutered. I am affectionate, like my famous namesake. My fur is soft and gray. It will feel good to both of us when you pet me.

ARWEN:

I’m a very young and outgoing one year old female chocolate Labrador mix that would love to spend some time training, taking walks and playing with toys. I am very curious, happy and playful….and my shelter friends say I am so cute and beautiful with my intriguing color pattern!

VALENTINE: Purrs to all of you. I

am Valentine. I am a young girl, five months, but I know what love is; a warm lap and lots of pets. I am a better Valentine than flowers or candy. Flowers wilt and candy gets eaten. I will be a furever Valentine if you take me home. If you look at my nose real close you might even see a heart.

wana’s Destinatio e h s p i n Sh Furniture Store

Full Line of Furniture and Home Accessories

Mattresses, Living Room, Dining Room, Bedroom, Office, Home Décor and More!

Shipshewana

Store Hours

SR 5 & US 20 Mon - Fri 9-5; Sat 9-4 1/4 mile south & 1/4 mile Closed Sunday east of Junction 5 & 20 260.768.7730

WeaverFurnitureSales.com boom | MARCH 2015

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HOME

Bring Spring Into Your Home Top 2015 Home Décor Trends To Try This Month! By: Chris Kramer

Gold Fixtures and Mixed Metals

s our winter days become longer and the snow piles begin to disappear, our thoughts turn to the warmth and promise of spring. As the sun streams through the window we realize spring will soon arrive and after a long cold winter our homes may feel a little wintery and frankly dull. We may be thinking it’s time for a fresh new room make over. But where to start? What are the current trends in home fashions for 2015?

Let’s take a look at the five hottest home trends for 2015:

In 2015, home owners will no longer be limited to silver or stainless steel fixtures, and will feel free to mix and match finishes colors, or go bold with all gold. Start with the bathroom, no sink is complete without a gold faucet. It’s on trend to mix metal finishes, we no longer need to match every metal finish in a single room. Try a strategic, mix of silvery, gold and black metals for a risker more stylish option.

Cowhide

There is a certain sophistication when you add a cowhide rug to you home. Cowhide is an ideal accent texture for 2015’s modern, yet approachable design aesthetic. This yeas fashionable home will see cowhide accents in pillows, throws and even accents on upholstered furniture. Moo’ve into this hot design trend.

Wallpaper

Yes, wallpaper is back in a big way. Today’s consumer can expect an increase in available colors, patterns and textures. Grass cloth, cork, silk along with geometric patterns will continue to be strong in 2015. Say goodbye to those plan white wall and let your creative side take over.

Blue Accent Colors

Blue will be the most popular accent color for interior decorating, and is the perfect complement to Marsala, the 2015 Pantone color of the year. Pops of indigo blue or deep navy will become a staple in home design this year, as their deep natural hues become extra vibrant against warm earth tones like Marsala. If you are not sure how to accent with navy or indigo, try adding a throw pillow or small accessories to your room.

Modern Elements

Lastly, a throwback to modern design elements of the 1950’s through the 1970’s. However be careful not to overwhelm your home with this popular design trend. Use it as inspiration, add a mid-century modern mirror for that perfect accent, or an accent chair. The clean lines will be a perfect complement to your stylized décor. 24

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So, as you are sitting in your comfortable lounge chair awaiting the first signs of spring, it would be the perfect time to contemplate bringing one of the sophisticated, ontrend design staples to your home this year. •••

Happy Decorating!

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hobbies

Some Things

EASTWOOD By: Margo and Jim Bell

ANSWERS: 1-h: This line from Tuco (the “Ugly”—Eli Wallach) to a long-winded bounty hunter he surprised and shot dead got chuckles from the movie audience.

2-e:

“Dirty Harry” Callahan (C.E.) rasps out these words to a robber while holding a .44 Magnum gun to the robber’s head.

3-g:

Yelled by Evelyn Draper (Jessica Walter) to Dave Garver (C.E.) as he runs out her front door after an argument.

4-a:

Will Munny (C.E.) makes a pledge to the hotshot Shofield Kid (Ron Howard).

5-b: Dirty Harry taunts a pinned-down criminal (Albert Popwell)

with these words and, of course, the .44 Magnum. (Is it loaded? In all this excitement I forgot.)

First Movie: b- Revenge of the Creature, a 1955 3-D spooker wherein Eastwood plays a lab technician, uncredited He was also uncredited as a jet pilot in Tarantula (1955). His first credited role was as “Jonesy” in Francis in the Navy (1955). It’s hard to picture the future “Dirty Harry” alongside a talking mule (Francis)! Directorial Debut: e- Play Misty For Me (1971). This classic movie, one of our favorites, was filmed in one month and under budget by Eastwood’s newly formed production company, Malpaso, meaning “bad step” in Spanish. It’s also the name of a creek south of Carmel-by-the-Sea, the movie’s location. But “Malpaso” was unintentionally inspired by Eastwood’s agent who told him that making the first Man-WithNo-Name movie would be a “bad step” for his career. After proving the agent wrong with the “dollar” trilogy, Eastwood chose the name for the production company, with Hang ‘Em

6-d: Advice made by veteran cop Nick Pulovski (C.E.) to his rookie partner (Charlie Sheen). This movie is not to be confused with the Disney sports flick of the same name made a few years later.

7-f:

Christine Collins (Angelina Jolie) pesters convicted criminal Gordon Northcutt (Jason Butler Harner) by consistently repeating this question the day before he’s to be executed for murder. Clint isn’t in this movie—he directed it and also wrote the soundtrack.

8-c:

Navy Seal Chris Kyle (Bradley Cooper) phones in this message to his wife Taya (Sienna Miller) while fighting in Afghanistan. Another movie directed by Eastwood.

High (1968) as the first film. Play Misty For Me provided a pattern for future stalker movies, notably Fatal Attraction (1987). Number of Dirty Harry Movies: a- There were five Dirty Harry movies: Dirty Harry (1971); Magnum Force (1973); The Enforcer (1976); Sudden Impact (1983); and The Dead Pool (1988). Eastwood’s Children: d- Six women gave him eight children. They are Kimber (with Roxanne Tunis); Kyle and Alison (Maggie Johnson); Scott and Kathryn (Jaceyln Reeves); Francesca (Frances Fisher); Morgan (Dina Eastwood); plus another child unidentified. Clint’s wives were Margaret (Maggie) Johnson Eastwood and Dina Ruiz Eastwood. All the named children have entered the movie business as actors, directors, composer (Kyle), or in some other capacity.

Facts: f- Despite rumors, Clint Eastwood is not a vegetarian, although he does follow a low-fat diet. Now for the facts: a- He’s named after his father, Clinton Eastwood Sr., a former steelworker. b, c- yes, he wore the same poncho, and he does work quickly and efficiently (see Play Misty For Me). d- Probably learned Italian during the five years he lived in Italy doing the spaghetti westerns. e- He played jazz piano in some of his films, including In the Line Of Fire. He also whistles. g- He was mayor of Carmel-by-the-Sea for one two-year term, earning a salary of $300. Anagram answer: CLINT EASTWOOD can be rearranged to spell “old west action.” SOURCES: Wikipedia, IMDb, more.

ATTENTION MOVIE CHALLENGER FANS: Get out your cocktail shakers and white dinner jackets. Next month we’ll feature James Bond movies! boom | MARCH 2015

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A Stout-ish

Porter or a

Porter-ish

Stout - Part II -

What is the difference between a Porter and a Stout? By: Chuck Bergman

ast month we started the debate regarding the difference between a porter and a stout. As I stated then, the title comes from one of my favorite craft beer descriptions. Green Bush’s Distorter Porter is described as “a stout-ish porter with a touch or porter-ish stout.” I can’t think of a better turn of phrase to describe the difference between the two styles. We also reviewed the history of porter, which started as a blend of different pale and darker ales in 18th century London pubs. The style became synonymous with the porters of the city who often enjoyed a pint with lunch. We learned that stout had its beginnings as a strong porter, with a stronger full-bodied flavor. We then discussed the three basic styles of porter: brown, robust, and Baltic. This gave us a better understanding of the beer category. While most porters are medium brown to near black in color, they can range in alcohol content and flavor. Many porters have a rich roasted flavor, which can run from smoky, to chocolate, to even bready or biscuit. Most brewers agree that a porter should not have a burnt or strong roasted flavor. That is reserved for stouts.

Defining a Stout

But to finish the debate, we need to also understand the stout; which has six designations: Dry, Sweet, Oatmeal, Foreign Extra, American, and Russian Imperial. Stouts tend to have a strong roasted malt flavor that often tastes of coffee, dark chocolate, and/or caramel. This flavor is sometimes slightly burnt tasting. The style usually has low sweetness and higher bitterness. The style name, Dry Stout, says it all; roasted coffee on the nose with a pronounced dry bitterness on the palate. This is the style of stout made popular by Guinness. Like all stouts, the color is very dark brown to jet black. The aroma of dry stout is dark-roasted, sometimes toasty or bready, and often coffee-like. Unlike most other styles of stout, dry stout has little to no chocolate or cocoa notes. Despite the seemingly harsh flavors, dry stout is surprisingly smooth and drinkable. As the name suggests, Sweet Stouts are considerably sweeter than dry stouts. They are sometimes referred to as milk stout, from the use of lactose (milk sugar) to sweeten the beer. Sweet stout has a milder roasted grain aroma than other stout styles, but it still has notes of coffee or chocolate. It typically exhibits qualities of a creamy sweetness; when combined with chocolate aromas, it can be reminiscent of chocolate milk. This is a moderately bitter beer with medium-tohigh sweetness from the lactose. Oatmeal Stout almost defines itself: a stout made with up to 20 percent oats.

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Like the other stout styles, oatmeal stout is jet black with a tan or brown head. The oats in the beer help with foam retention, creating a thick, creamy and long-lasting head. The aroma has a roasted character sometimes reminiscent of coffee with cream or a chocolaty mocha. Some versions of oatmeal stout will even have a light oatmeal or nutty aroma. The sweetness of this beer is somewhere between a sweet stout and a dry stout. Despite the roasted nature of this beer, oatmeal stout is only moderately bitter. A rather broad class of stouts, Foreign Extra Stout, can be either fruity and sweet, or dry and bitter. This style was originally a high-gravity stout brewed for tropical markets, which is why it is sometimes knows as Tropical Stout. This may be the second best known stout style. Guinness Foreign Extra Stout has been made since the early 1800s. In much the same way that India Pale Ale was brewed with more hops and alcohol so it could survive transport to India, this style of stout was originally designed with more of everything so it could last through a similar journey.

Foreign Extra Stouts are often full-bodied, dry, or sweet but with a maltier flavor due to the high alcohol content, which can be around 6-8%. They are brewed with a high hop rate, but no hop flavor or aroma. The hops are there for the bitter value. They have more pronounced roasted notes on the nose but more importantly, fuller flavor on the palate. Basically, this style is an aggressive version of a dry stout. Why is there an American Stout and how is it different from other stout styles? The answer can be summed up in one word: hops. As has happened with other beer style, we Americans just love a stronger hop profile compared to our European brothers. This version of stout shares many flavor attributes with the other styles: roasted, malty, chocolate and/or coffee notes are common. Sweetness falls in the low-tomoderate range, but the bitterness and hop aroma is the differentiator. Both the hop bitterness and aroma can be moderate to high, which can bring out a dry roasted flavor and citrus aromas. Our final stout style is Russian Imperial Stout. The Russian variant was an imperial stout brewed in London in the late 1700s, for export to Russia and the Baltic states. History tells us that the first imperial stout was brewed specifically for the Russian Imperial court of Czarina Catherine the Great, thus the name of the beer style. Even in those days, imperial stout was a highgravity and high-alcohol beer ranging from 7.5 to 10.5 percent alcohol by volume. We’re not exactly sure when, but at some point in beer history the term “imperial” became an indicator of high ABV rather than a reference to the Imperial Court. Imperial stout is a very rich, malty, sweet and complex beer. The aroma and flavor profiles start at what you might expect from a stout and expand in all directions from there. Imperial stouts can be described as toffee-like, burnt, barley winelike and port-like, with notes of bittersweet chocolate, fresh ground coffee, espresso, prunes, plums, raisins, currants and more. Imperial stout should have warmth from the alcohol but it shouldn’t be solvent or hot. It's usually moderately sweet with a moderate amount of hop bitterness and flavor.

“Why is there an American Stout and how is it different from other stout styles? Hops.” Finishing the Debate

So now we have a fair understanding of what make a porter a porter and a stout a stout … right? Well to finish the debate, the main difference between the broader styles today seems to be that stouts are drier and toastier, and porters are more malty and full-bodied. Modern brewing practice defines one primary distinction between the two. Stout is brewed with roasted barley; porter is not (or at least in only small amounts). Roasted barley is un-malted grain that has been roasted at a high temperature to a blackened state. It imparts a range of roasted aromas, such as coffee and dark-chocolate, to beer as well as a dry bitterness on the palate. The use of roasted barley means stouts, in general, have more pronounced and deeper roasted notes to the nose, as well as a more pronounced dry bitterness in the flavor. Porters are commonly perceived as sweeter on the nose and palate. Also, stouts tend to be darker in color. Although this can be hard to judge while enjoying a pint as both styles don’t let much light through when held up for viewing. This discussion will probably never truly end as brewers continually tweak their recipes and create new and amazing variations of both dark, roasted beer styles.

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recipe

The Famous

Corned Beef and Cabbage

Ingredients

• 3 pounds corned beef brisket with spice packet • 10 red potatoes • 5 carrots, peeled and cut into 3-inch pieces • 1 head cabbage, cut into small wedges

Directions

1. Place corned beef in large pot or Dutch oven and cover with water. Add the spice packet that came with the corned beef. Cover pot and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Simmer approximately 50 minutes per pound or until tender. 2. Add whole potatoes and carrots, and cook until the vegetables are almost tender. Add cabbage and cook for 15 more minutes. Remove from the meat and let it rest for 15 minutes. 3. Place the vegetables in a bowl and cover. Add as much broth as you want. Slice the meat across the grain. 4. Enjoy!

MARCH 2015 | boom

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book review

The Midnight Plan of the Repo Man By W. Bruce Cameron

Reviewed By: Karen Palmer, Reference Librarian Mishawaka Penn Harris Public Library