Prime Time February 2013

PRIME TIME February 2013

Terry Cl ark :

Scouting new frontiers Paperwork Essentials

Jeri Cannon’s Vision

Widows of Wisdom

Editor’s note

Welcome to the first issue of Prime Time for 2013. Let’s hope 13 proves to be a lucky number for us all.

In honor of the new year, we’ve given the magazine a bit of a face-lift. Nothing quite as drastic as a Joan Rivers face-lift or anything, just a few tweaks here and there.

You probably noticed one of them right away, our new slick cover.

We didn’t plan it this way, but maybe it’s fitting that our first slick cover features a photo of Terry Clark. After all, his mother, Rovene Quigley, graced our premiere issue back in 2006.

After reading about Terry, I think you’ll agree that this retired Republic employee is a bit of a Renaissance man.

I don’t believe he’s attempted brain surgery yet, but I wouldn’t put it past him.

Elsewhere in this issue you’ll find more profiles of interesting people in our community, advice on some important paperwork everyone should have, our new Prime Time columnist, Sharon Mangas, and more.

I hope you enjoy the “new and improved” Prime Time.

If you have article ideas, people you think would make great profile subjects or suggestions as to how we can make Prime Time even better, please let me know at dshowalter@therepublic.com or 812-379-5625.

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contents 4

This and That

8

Coloring her world

14

From nurse to writer

20

Everything in order?

24

Cover story: Terry Clark

30

Helping hands

36

Food, fun and understanding

40

Can you read this?

44

Calendar of Events

48

My Back Pages

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8

14

24

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30

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36 Comments should be sent to Doug Showalter, The Republic, 333 Second St., Columbus, IN 47201 or call 812-379-5625 or dshowalter@therepublic.com. Advertising information: Call 812-379-5652. ©2013 by Home News Enterprises All rights reserved. Reproduction of stories, photographs and advertisements without permission is prohibited. Stock images provided by © Thinkstock.

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www.villasofstonecrest.com PRIME TIME • FEBRUARY 2013 • 3

This & That Green is good

Scientists estimate that up to 35 percent of cancer may be due to dietary excesses and deficiencies, especially deficiencies of essential nutrients coupled with excesses of nutrient-poor processed foods.

The good news is that we can choose foods and beverages that are cancer-protective, such as green tea. Green tea contains a number of important chemicals that may work to halt cancer growth. Many studies have suggested that green tea consumption can lower the risk of multiple cancers, including cancers of the pancreas, colon, stomach, ovary, bladder and prostate.

Green tea seems to inhibit cancer in multiple ways: It reduces free radicals and DNA damage while also increasing DNA repair. It also encourages cancer cells to die rather than replicate, and it reduces the ability of cancer cells to grow and spread to other tissues.

You’ll get the greatest benefit if you brew the leaves in near-boiling water and let the tea steep for at least 10 minutes before drinking. If you’re sensitive to caffeine, — some studies suggest that decaffeinated green teas have just as much benefit as the caffeinated varieties.

Green tea may also help to lower your cholesterol, prevent heart disease, reduce your blood sugar, lower your risk of colitis, improve your arthritis, and help you lose weight.

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Need to know

Social Security is expanding the services available with a “My Social Security Account,” a personalized online account that people can use beginning in their working years and continuing throughout the time they receive Social Security benefits. More than 60 million Social Security beneficiaries and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients can now access their benefit verification letter, payment history and earnings record instantly using their online account. Social Security beneficiaries also can change their address and start or change direct deposit information online.

Social Security beneficiaries and SSI recipients with a My Social Security Account can go online and get an official benefit verification letter instantly.

The benefit verification letter serves as proof of income to secure loans, mortgages and other housing, and state or local benefits. Additionally, people use the letter to prove current Medicare health insurance coverage, retirement or disability status, and age. People can print or save a customized letter.

This new online service allows people to conduct business with Social Security without having to visit an office or make a phone call, and often wait for a letter to arrive in the mail.

People age 18 and older can sign up for an account at www.socialsecurity.gov/ myaccount.

Fun for all ages Looking for a fun activity to share with your grandchildren? Why not check out Old National Bank’s First Fridays For Families series, presented

by Columbus Area Arts Council. Held at 6 p.m. at The Commons, these shows are fun, and they’re free.

Coming up on March1 is Bongo Boy Drum Circle, a place where everybody is welcome regardless of their level of musical expertise and drumming knowledge.

Comedy coming

Tim Cavanaugh will bring his unique brand of funny to the YES Cinema Comedy Showcase at 8 p.m. Feb. 15. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door. The former school teacher best known for his funny songs and inventive standup is a frequent guest on radio’s “The Bob and Tom Show.”

Information: yescinema.org.

On April 5 don’t miss Jumble of Classic Fairy Tales performed by Columbus’ own Dancers Studio.

Information: 376-2534 or email: caac@artsincolumbus.org.

Exercise helps memory

In healthy seniors and those with emerging memory problems, even a single brief bout of vigorous exercise and the release of norepinephrine that comes with it can enhance memory of what came just before it, say researchers at University of California-Irvine.

Sabrina Segal, a post-doctoral fellow at Irvine’s Center for Stress and Health and the study’s lead author, said researchers have established that ongoing exercise regimens help support memory function in both healthy older adults and those with memory problems.

But she and her colleagues were struck that for both groups, even a short, one-time bout of exercise — a brisk walk around the block, for instance — strengthened recall for information taken in just before.

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[this & that] Books for boomers

“The End of Your Life Book Club,”

by Will Schwalbe

“The Paris Wife,”

by Paula McLain

This is the inspiring true story of a son and his mother, who start a “book club” that brings them together as her life comes to a close. Over the next two years, Will and Mary Anne carry on conversations that are both wide-ranging and deeply personal, prompted by an eclectic array of books and a shared passion for reading. Their list jumps from classic to popular, from poetry to mysteries, from fantastic to spiritual. The issues they discuss include questions of faith and courage as well as everyday topics, such as expressing gratitude and learning to listen.

Will and Mary Anne share their hopes and concerns with each other — and rediscover their lives — through their favorite books. When they read, they aren’t a sick person and a well person, but a mother and a son taking a journey together. The result is a profoundly moving tale of loss that is also a joyful, and often humorous, celebration of life: Will’s love letter to his mother, and theirs to the printed page.

Chicago, 1920: Hadley Richardson is a quiet 28-year-old who has all but given up on love and happiness — until she meets Ernest Hemingway.

Following a whirlwind courtship and wedding, the pair set sail for Paris, where they become the golden couple in a lively and volatile group — the fabled “Lost Generation” — that includes Gertrude Stein, Ezra Pound and F. Scott Fitzgerald.

Though deeply in love, the Hemingways are ill-prepared for the hard-drinking, fast-living and free-loving life of Jazz Age Paris. As Ernest struggles to find the voice that will earn him a place in history and pours himself into the novel that will become “The Sun Also Rises,” Hadley strives to hold on to her sense of self as her roles as wife, friend and muse become more challenging. Eventually they find themselves facing the ultimate crisis of their marriage — a deception that will lead to the unraveling of everything they’ve fought so hard for.

A heartbreaking portrayal of love and torn loyalty, “The Paris Wife” is all the more poignant because we know that, in the end, Hemingway wrote that he would rather have died than fallen in love with anyone but Hadley.

— Viewpoint Books

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Hi, take your pills

A simple automated telephone call may be enough to convince people to take their medicine, a study by Kaiser Permanente has found.

As part of the study, an automated telephone call was made to patients on cholesterol-reducing drugs who hadn’t picked up their medicine two weeks after it was prescribed. A letter was sent a week later if patients still hadn’t filled their prescriptions.The calls and letters informed people about the importance of taking the medication and encouraged them to have prescription filled or to call their doctor.

The outreach resulted in a 16 percent decrease in people who did not get their prescriptions filled after 25 days, the study found.

The researchers said more needs to be done to increase secondary drug adherence, or getting people to refill their prescriptions.

When people take their medication it helps control health problems and saves money on hospitalizations and complications from disease, the Kaiser researchers said.

— Distributed by MCT Information Services

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profile

Sharing her skill set Everyday objects are blank canvases for artist and teacher Jeri Cannon’s vision

By Karen E. Farley n photos by Carla Clark

S

everal years ago, Jeri Cannon, artist and owner of Cannon Gallery, had plans to someday become a full-time artist. Her passion for painting and teaching others is moving her closer to that dream.

The youngest of six, Cannon grew up in Greensburg and moved to Columbus at age 19. Her fascination with art began as a child, tracing comics from the Sunday paper. Her parents shared a love of music and art with their children.

“My mom was still painting at 90,” she says.

After moving to Columbus, she began painting colorful scenes on old saw blades, which sold well at craft shows. Cannon also did sign painting, but her art took a back seat when she entered the workforce.

Her career as a financial planning assistant left no time for artistic endeavors.

About 15 years ago, a friend approached her to paint a mural in her home. Since then, she has painted garage doors, kitchen counters, furniture, musical instruments, stemware and murals in local businesses and homes.

Those who know her say her artistic ability is matched only by her love of whatever project she’s involved with.

“Jeri is enthusiastic about her work as a painter and artist,” says Columbus resident Nancy Olson. “She has a way of making me feel like I come up with the good ideas, but really it’s a combination of her allowing input from her clients and it not being all her way. I really appreciate that quality in a person.”

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[profile] Laurie Wright, a local artist and custom framer, agrees. “Jeri has a natural curiosity about things.

Her boundless energy and enthusiasm make her fun to be with and an inspiration to others.”

Cannon played an important part in the restoration of the kinetic sculpture “Chaos” in The Commons. She kept the integrity of the original piece with oil-based paints and feathery brush strokes.

“I was honored to be a part of the process for such a respected sculpture in Columbus,” she says.

Cannon is well-known in Columbus for her garage door. It has drawn the attention of many with its image of a 1962 red Corvette. But it is her unique wine glasses that attract many customers from around the country.

“Jeri is naturally talented as a musician and artist,” says Bambi Wigh of Columbus. “I was one of her first clients. I met her in 1999 at a Mill Race concert and saw her wine glasses. I just had to get some.”

“My forte is changing ordinary objects and spaces into something colorful,” Cannon explains.

“Art makes life and the environment more interesting.”

In 2010, Cannon brought her painted stemware to the Columbus Farmer’s Market.

“The glasses just took off after that,” she says.

“That led to connections with people suggesting wineries and looking for the best fit for selling my glasses.”

Over the last few years, she has sold her glasses at wine festivals and various art venues around Indiana. Vintage Indiana in downtown Indy and Ertel Cellars Winery Fall Festival in Batesville are annual events where she sets up tables for sales. Cannon also participated with other artisans in the Wine-A-Ree, a fundraiser that benefits the Hoosier Trails Boy Scout Council.

Along with wineries, local restaurants and businesses display her stemware. Her customers include friends from Las Vegas and wine connoisseurs from Ohio.

Glass With Class! her stemware glass line, includes various designs on wine glasses, carafes and martini glasses. Recently, her glass art appeared on Massachusetts Avenue in Indianapolis. Brad Kime, former president of Irwin Union Bank, 10 • FEBRUARY 2013 • PRIME TIME

Want to know more about Jeri Cannon?

Contact her at 812-344-0894 or email her at cannongallery1@hotmail.com.

On Facebook: www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Glass-With-Class/243347775701993 www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Cannon-Gallery/233924036640596

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[profile] commissioned her to paint vodka bottles for a display in his martini bar in downtown Indy.

“I had a whole case of vodka delivered to my door,” she laughs. “I really had a lot of fun painting the bottles.”

Shortly after Cannon taught classes at Michaels craft stores, she came up with the idea of getting a few people together and combining food and wine with painting. The idea caught on, and Paint Outside the Wines became part of Cannon Gallery.

“I get a group of ladies together in someone’s home with food and wine, and I do a two-hour painting class,” she explains. “Everyone completes a painting of the same picture, and they all look totally different.”

Cannon enjoys teaching others to paint, but she is also passionate about serving the men and women who protect our freedom.

Last summer, she began a program for the soldiers at Camp Atterbury called Boots and Brushes.

As a USO volunteer and treasurer of the Indiana Artists Club, she was determined to find a way to support the military through art.

Once a month she brings supplies purchased by the Indiana Artists Club, and the troops get a chance to paint. The club also mails the paintings wherever the soldier wants them sent. Though it is emotionally difficult at times, Cannon is very proud of the program and the smiles it brings to the faces of soldiers.

“The troops really get into painting something for their kids,” she says. “I see big burly guys sit down in their camo with guns at their side painting a dinosaur or stars for their kids. It is so much fun to watch them.”

For the men and women who receive training at Camp Atterbury before deployment, the Boots and Brushes program provides a break and gives them an opportunity to express themselves through art.

Cannon also began teaching classes at Mill Race Center in Columbus last fall. She gave step-by-step instructions to re-create one of her original works. The center also plans to offer Paint Outside the Wines and Glass With Class! in the future.

“I always say if you know nothing, I can teach you something,” she says with a laugh. PT 12 • FEBRUARY 2013 • PRIME TIME

Countdown to summer Though the calendar still reads winter, it’s never too early to start planning that special summer vacation. Where’s your favorite place to go for summer fun? Here’s your chance to tell — and show — others what makes it your top spot.

In 200 words or less tell us about your favorite vacation destination. Maybe you’ve been going there for years, or maybe you’ve been only once but can’t wait to go back. Be sure to tell us what it is about this destination that makes it No. 1 on your list. We’d also like to see a photo or two from one of your previous visits to your favorite spot.

Send your vacation favorite and high-resolution digital photos (JPEGS please) via email to dshowalter@ therepublic.com. Be sure to include information for a photo caption and a daytime telephone number. If you prefer, you may submit hard copy descriptions and goodquality photo prints via regular mail to Doug Showalter, c/o The Republic, 333 Second St., Columbus, IN 47201.

Deadline for submissions is April 1.

We’ll share your vacation favorites with Prime Time readers in our May 8 issue.

Information: 379-5625 or dshowalter@therepublic.com.

lifestyle

degree, focus

Sherry Traylor helps writers learn to find the right words

By Sharon Mangas n photos by Andrew Laker

E

nthusiastic, determined, caring, goal-oriented.

These are all terms that describe local writer Sherry Traylor. But perhaps the one that fits her best is lifelong learner. Traylor, 47, plans to graduate from IUPUC in May with a degree in English literature and recently opened a new business in Clover Center, Traylor Writing Services Center and Books.

She’s eager to “pay it forward,” sharing what she’s learned.

Her target audience for the writing center is adult learners, especially young people making the transition from high school to college. According to Traylor, students making that shift often need help developing more complex writing skills.

“You have to write differently for every academic subject in college,” she says. “Students coming out of high school think it’s all about memorization and testing, but there’s a lot more writing required in college than there used to be, especially since I first took classes years ago.”

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Sherry Traylor left a career in nursing to pursue her passion for writing, and she is now realizing her dream with a writing services center.

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[lifestyle]

Although Traylor enjoys helping young adults, she has a heart to help anyone become a writer, no matter what age.

Prior to opening her business, she held writing workshops at Bartholomew County Public Library and taught a class at Mill Race Center on memoir writing (see sidebar).

She left an established career in nursing to return to college in 2006. “I was scared. I was in my 40s, a single mom with a child in her teen years. I quit a perfectly good job — making good money — to do homework again!”

To economize, Traylor and her widowed mother, Dorothy, 87, combined households. Traylor took a leap of faith. She’s never regretted the decision. “I learned to look at what I needed instead of what I wanted. I cut back in order to get where I wanted to get. I set a goal, and I knew I would make it, one way or another.”

She enrolled at IUPUC to take a few classes to polish her writing skills. However, Judy Spector, now professor of English emerita, saw her passion and talent and encouraged Traylor to become an English major and get a degree. “Judy was my

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An antique Royal typewriter, far left, adds a hint of nostalgia beside stacks of literary classics at the writing services center. Traylor is gradually filling the shelves with gently used books and text books.

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[lifestyle]

Traylor prices books and fills out price tags. mentor. She encouraged me all the way. I’ve had other great professors at IUPUC, too, and they continue to support me. I think it’s important to have mentors if you want to do anything in your life, people who will guide you.”

Katherine Wills, associate professor of English at IUPUC, is one of those.

She speaks highly of Traylor. “Sherry’s a great teacher and role model for non-traditional women. She’s taken her nurturing skills from nursing and is applying them to the more abstract world of writing. She’s learning to ‘give’ in new and different ways. She has such a vision of what she wants to do.”

Lisa Siefker Bailey, lecturer in English at IUPUC, adds, “Sherry has been a delightfully creative student at IUPUC. She has been a tutor in the IUPUC Academic Resource Center and has devoted much

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energy over her years here to encouraging all the students she tutors to enjoy the freedom of sharing their individual voices in writing.”

Both of Traylor’s parents encouraged her love of reading and learning, but it was her late father, Robert, who fostered her love of writing and helped her develop her keen business sense and determination to succeed.

“Dad was an army lieutenant colonel,” Traylor says. “We lived in an army household.

We were very structured. Every single day my dad wrote in journals, and every single day he wrote in a budget book. Those were part of his daily routine. He did that until he died. He was very goal-oriented and taught his children to set goals, too.”

Mother Dorothy chimes in. “Since Sherry was a little girl, she would write stories with pictures and share them with me and her father.

She’s always had an imagination and never had a problem keeping herself busy with a pen and some paper. If her father was still alive, he would be very proud of her. They were a lot alike.”

“Traylor: the Genetic Flow to Who We are Today” is one of three books Traylor has published. “Genetic Flow” is a collection of her father’s journals and photographs that she edited and formatted. It’s a fascinating slice of American history and family life from the 1920s to the early 21st century.

To honor her father, she established a $1,000 scholarship in his name that will be presented for the first time this year to an IUPUC student.

When asked if she has misgivings about launching a writing business during tough economic times, Traylor’s determination kicks into high gear. “I can do this. I feel good about what I’m doing and what I seek to do. I want to help the community … help kids with the high school to college transition. Help adults in the workforce who are going into a new job and need to learn a different type of writing. I’ll offer three workshops a week, minimum.”

Budding authors, are your pens and pencils ready? PT

Traylor’s tips

for writing your life story Just do it Leaving your life lessons, triumphs, failures and eyewitness accounts of history to your family is the most precious gift anyone can give.

Consider these ideas as foundations for building your story so that future generations can bear witness to your place in history.

Memoir or autobiography?

Decide on an approach. An autobiography is written by the author, describing the person’s life, memory, experiences, identities and complex state of their whole life. A memoir focuses on only a portion or an event of the author’s life.

Stories from pictures Use pictures to cue storytelling. Put family pictures in order, from great-grandparents to you. How did your family come to be here, including their place in history and any circumstances of history? Try using a picture of yourself or your first-born child and write a story of the picture.

Memory write from items If you’re not a picture keeper, take something in your home that is part of a collection or inheritance and write about it. Use it to frame a story about people connected to the item, how it was acquired.

Events in story form Make a list of all events that changed your life in some way. Then account for your personal stories within that timeline.

Take a class The next memoirs class is scheduled for 9 to 10:30 a.m. Feb. 15 at the Writing Center, 3025 25th St. (next to GNC in Clover Center).

Call 348-2590 to register. Special rates are available for people older than 55. Full schedule of upcoming classes available on the website, www.traylorwritingservicescenter.com. Email: sherry@ traylorwritingservices.com.

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money

Where there’s a will, there’s less worry

M

By Brenda Showalter

aking decisions about what will happen if we become seriously ill or die is easy to put off. The conversations can be uncomfortable, but in the end, they are some of the most important ones we can have with our attorneys and loved ones.

They can involve such critical issues as life support, nursing home care, what should be done with the family home, how to pay bills and decisions about funerals and burial.

Imagine a parent who has died unexpectedly, leaving behind children who don’t know what their parent’s wishes were or how he wanted his assets divided. Maybe a stepparent is involved or a large number of children, brothers and sisters who can’t agree on how to handle the estate.

“I would say most people don’t have their paperwork in order,” said James K. Voelz, a Columbus attorney who specializes in elder law.

Voelz explains to his clients and others that they should find comfort in knowing that they have taken care of necessary steps to not only ensure their wishes are carried out, but that they also have lessened the burden on family members later.

A few hundred dollars spent now on attorney fees could be a small amount compared to the cost if an estate must go through the courts after a death, he said.

Talking with family members early is important, and in some cases, paperwork can be found online, signed and witnessed. Some forms, including an “Appointment of Health Care Representative” form, can be downloaded from the Columbus Regional Health website at www.crh.org.

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[money] Debbie Earle, manager of social work at Columbus Regional Hospital, said too often people wait until they are ill or preparing for a medical procedure before they decide they need to update personal documents. She even has seen people an hour before surgery wanting to sign paperwork.

She understands wanting to postpone such discussions, but her advice is to start thinking about these matters in a less rushed and stressed environment.

“I encourage families to talk about it and to let them know what your wishes are,” Earle said. “When the time comes and a decision needs to be made, it is much more comforting to realize your family knows what you want.”

She said situations happen at the hospital where a family member is no longer able to make decisions and no health care representative has been appointed. In some cases, disagreements erupt between in- and outof-town relatives.

Without written documentation, family members also might agonize over the best decision to make.

Voelz cautions people to not assume a spouse will automatically be appointed by the courts to make health care decisions if the patient is no longer capable.

Without a guardian or health care representative, Indiana law states that a committee will make decisions.

That committee can include the spouse, parent, adult child and sibling.

“It’s very important to choose the people you want to make your health care decisions,” Voelz said. “People may not agree on a committee.”

Earle added that people sometimes feel they are giving up their decision-making power, but documents state that a health care representative takes over only when the patient no longer can make decisions for themselves.

Other documents CRH has available on its website for download are “Life-Prolonging Procedures Declaration” and “Indiana Living Will Declaration.”

Voelz said he advises his clients to not sign a living will because physicians generally do not certify the three circumstances in writing that are required to make it valid. These are having an incurable injury, disease or illness; that death will occur in a short time; and that use of life-prolonging drugs would serve only to artificially prolong the dying process.

Voelz instead advises empowering an appointed

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health care representative to make decisions. He also encourages talking with an attorney to get other professional advice on advance health directives and the many options available.

Another document Voelz lists as key to have is an HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) release. This document will allow the person’s health care representative to have immediate and unrestricted access to health care information and records.

Last will and testament Many issues and questions family members have can be settled with a will that ensures an estate is settled as you wanted it to be and the person you wish to be in charge of matters, the executor, has been appointed by you.

Even if you are not leaving great sums of wealth behind, it’s still a good idea to have a will. Besides financial matters, wills can handle such issues as guardianship if you take care of an aging relative in a nursing home or if you want to leave a trust fund for a grandchild’s college education.

You might also want to specify which family member receives certain family treasures, such as great-grandpa’s pocket watch collection, mother’s wedding ring or the antique oak table that has been in the family for generations.

Voelz also suggests sitting down to complete a letter or form that lists basic items that family members will need to know as soon as you have passed away. He gives his clients a four-page form to complete called “My Wishes.”

It includes information on whether you want your organs donated, if a minister or lawyer should be contacted and if so who they are, what information you want included in your obituary, where you want to be buried and other personal matters.

In the end, making decisions is important, but loved ones must know what those decisions are and where to find the paperwork.

And although some people might never want to talk about these end-of-life issues and legal matters, Voelz said it’s a fact of life we all have to deal with and doing so when we are in good health and thinking clearly is the best time. PT

Timely Paperwork n Will – To determine how your estate will be distributed and a person you want to be responsible for the settlement. n Appointment of health care representative – Someone you trust to make health care decisions for you when you are no longer able. n HIPAA form – Allows your health care representative to have access to your health records. n Financial power of attorney – Gives someone you appoint the power to act on your behalf to handle your financial affairs if you are unable. n Funeral and burial arrangements – You make the choices and relieve the burden from your loved ones.

PRIME TIME • FEBRUARY 2013 • 23

Cover Story

A man of notable talents From Wild West to good old rock-and-roll, most everything is fascinating to Terry Clark

By Barney Quick n photos by Carla Clark

S

ome creative individuals need more than one or two outlets for their expressive energies. Such is the case with Terry Clark, whose restless imagination has led him into immersions in rock-and-roll, jewelry-making, leathercrafting, acting, graphic design and, lately, a touring Buffalo Bill impersonation show.

The unassuming Columbus native has just gravitated to what’s come naturally to him over the last five decades.

For instance, his fascination with America’s westward expansion fermented for years before taking form in his Buffalo Bill tribute. The show consists of Clarkas-Cody’s reminiscences, punctuated with 19th-century songs. Clark sings and accompanies himself on piano.

“My grandfather Clark was a fan of Westerns,” he says. “He taught me the dif-

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ference between Buffalo Bill and Wild Bill Hickok.” He also notes that his father was “a big John Wayne fan.”

Then five years ago, Clark read “Buffalo Bill Cody: The Man Behind the Legend” by Robert A. Carter. The latest in a stream of Cody biographies over the years, it examines the full range of his personality, as well as the breadth of his associations.

“He seemed to know everybody,” says Clark. “He knew Kit Carson, he knew Teddy Roosevelt, he knew Henry Irving, the British Victorian-era actor-manager.

Mark Twain is the one who advised him to take his Wild West show to Europe, to give its public something uniquely American.”

Clark sees Cody as embodying the moment America began a self-referential look at its frontier.

“Then there’s the music,” he adds. He

Terry Clark and wife Carla dressed in steampunk gear at a downtown Columbus street fair where he was showcasing his leather working skills.

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[Cover Story]

The Republic file photo

notes a woman in the audience at a performance at the Irma Hotel in Cody, Wyo., who sang with him during “The Battle Hymn of the Republic.” During conversation after the show, he realized she spoke only Spanish, even though she knew all the words to the patriotic tune.

He used the guidelines of the Single Action Shooting Society in assembling his costume. “They have a whole list of no-nos,” he says.

“They’re pretty much sticklers for authenticity.”

He started with local shows at venues such as Harlequin Theater, the public library’s Red Room and Mill Race Center. The Wyoming opportunity resulted from a Cody-related email from a friend. “The important part of that was that it mentioned the Irma Hotel’s owner’s name. I called him and asked about coming out. He said, ‘You can do your show right after the nightly gunfight on the veranda.’”

In September, he took his show to the Eiteljorg Museum in Indianapolis. “At that date, I met a guy who had a Hopalong Cassidy show,” he recalls. That encounter has led to a network of acquaintances who do shows of Western-related figures. He discovered that there’s something of a circuit for such tributes.

Music has been at the forefront of Clark’s life since early childhood piano lessons. For the past few years, his main outlet for it has been The Reunion All-Stars, a band specializing in faithful renditions of 1960s and ’70s rock and pop. It sometimes sprawls to well

At top, Clark as Teddy Roosevelt Brewster in the production “Arsenic and Old Lace” at the Crump Theatre. Above, Clark spent three years building this Cobra.

26 • FEBRUARY 2013 • PRIME TIME

The Republic file photo

At top, Clark as a singing version of Buffalo Bill Cody during a local performance.

Above right, Clark working on a painting for the Harlequin Theatre. At left, the finished painting.

PRIME TIME • FEBRUARY 2013 • 27

[Cover Story] over 10 people and includes a female vocal group called The Beat Chicks, in which his wife, Carla, sings. The ensemble specializes in high school class reunion gigs and events for baby boomers at venues such as Mill Race Center.

He joined his first rock band in 1965. A conversation about that soon conjures memories of gigs at Donner Center’s Teen Club, Lake Santee north of Greensburg and the public swimming pool in Edinburgh.

After college, he, his brother Danny (who has been his musical colleague since the late ’60s) and some other associates ran a crafts-and-clothing store in Columbus called Cottonpatch. Clark made and sold handcrafted jewelry there.

He has also worked in leather since childhood. Lately, this has led to kiosks at downtown Columbus events at which he sells leather items with a steampunk theme.

Steampunk is a pop-culture sensibility having its roots in a sub-genre of science fiction that speculates on what the Victorian era would have been like if technology had advanced more rapidly.

Clark cites the novel “The Difference Engine” by William Gibson and Bruce Sterling as a steampunk classic. It examines how the Industrial Revolution would have proceeded had computing pioneer Charles Babbage advanced his inventions beyond his simple mechanical “difference engine.” Much later societal developments appear in the mid1800s in the work. As with his Buffalo Bill show, Clark dons appropriate steampunk regalia to man his booth.

In recent years, he’s also dabbled in community theater. He acted in The Riverside Players’ production of “The Man with Bogart’s Face” and The Crump Players’ staging of “Arsenic and Old Lace.”

Local community theater impresario Robert Hay-Smith has directed Clark, and Clark assists him in a variety of ways at HaySmith’s performance venue, the Harlequin Theater. He describes Clark as “a huge creative spirit that’s largely still untapped. His brain is full of stuff, but he knows where all

28 • FEBRUARY 2013 • PRIME TIME

Opposite page: Top, Clark as Jim the Sound Guy with Darlene Crider as Duchess in “The Man With Bogart’s Face” a radio play by the Riverside Players.

Bottom, Clark and Tim Staggs as Mortimer Brewster in “Arsenic and Old Lace.”

Lef t: Clark sings and plays with The Reunion All-Stars at a 2011 Mardi Gras party at the Columbus Elks lodge. the compartments are. When he sinks his teeth into a project, he becomes very particular in seeing it through.”

Clark worked for many years at The Republic. He started as a graphic designer, but he says that he was “spending more time helping various departments with computer issues than doing ads,” so he became the paper’s information technology specialist. He still designs posters for theatrical and musical events.

It was during those years that he resumed music performance. He and some other Republic staffers formed a band, The Flying Pasters, which played for seven years.

But for Clark, as for many boomers, where there were guitars, there were often cars. And Clark loved both. About 10 years ago the selftaught auto mechanic (with help from Carla) built his own Shelby Cobra sports car from a kit. He spent three years tracking down original and new parts to complete “the car I always wanted.”

Carla sees her husband of 24 years as

far more of a producer than a consumer.

“Whenever we see something we like, the first thing out of Terry’s mouth is, ‘I can make that,’” she says.

Though he hasn’t had the Cobra on the road recently, he and Carla have driven it to various classic car shows over the years. “The folks I met at car shows are one of the best parts of building the car,” he said. “However, I get fidgety sitting in parking lots and got involved more in art and music, so haven’t had time to do the car show circuits lately.

But maybe one sunny Saturday The Suds will beckon in Greenwood.”

He is pleased to still be a resident of the city where he was born and raised. “Columbus values gathering hubs like the new Commons, and that’s important,” he says, and also praises it as a community that “runs on volunteerism.”

At this point in his life, retired with ample time to explore that which captures his fancy, he describes his focus as “various forms of art.” PT

PRIME TIME • FEBRUARY 2013 • 29

r i n a g h S

th

ei

ne

profile

u rg t o o d f or

Retired health professionals Ann and Bill Jones still find ways to help others around the globe

A

By Brenda Showalter

nn and Bill Jones have made a lasting impact on many lives, some in Columbus and others thousands of miles away. The couple knew early on that they wanted to help others in their personal and professional lives. Both pursued medical careers and passions in their off-duty hours that improved and saved lives.

30 • FEBRUARY 2013 • PRIME TIME

photo by Carla Clark

PRIME TIME • FEBRUARY 2013 • 31

[profile] Bill, a physician, chose obstetrics and gynecology as his specialty, and delivered 11,000 babies over the course of his career, which included 31 years in Columbus.

Ann, a registered nurse, earned a master’s degree in community health nursing and is a marriage and family therapist.

Although retired now, the couple, both 67, even used their vacation time as a way to reach out to others as far away as Africa.

“We like to stay busy,” she said with a grin.

“We do vacations with a purpose.”

One of the causes that has meant the most to Ann has been to help grandmothers in Africa who are raising children orphaned by AIDS. She first became involved in the effort after reading about the tremendous need and how a group of women were organizing a trip to Africa to see if they could somehow make a difference.

She knew in her heart it was something she wanted to be a part of. Since that first trip in 2002, she has made four more journeys and been an active contributor to the Power of Love Foundation.

32 • FEBRUARY 2013 • PRIME TIME

In Columbus, she helped found the Granny Connection, a group of local women who raise money to support the grandmothers in Africa through various fundraisers.

“It just became such a passion for me. I felt so compelled,” she said.

To date, the Granny Connection has raised $41,500, and a Mother’s Day fundraiser is planned to add to the total.

Occasionally, the Joneses have people ask why they devote their energies to a cause across the ocean. photos by Carla Clark

Ann and Bill Jones are tutors in the Book Buddy program. Right, they look at books on display in the library at Schmitt School. Below, Madison Bragg’s excitement shows as they talk during their recent session.

“We just say there are a lot of people in need all over the world,” Ann said.

“And we are all citizens of the world,” Bill added.

And besides, they spend plenty of time helping people in Columbus and the U.S. They have been regular volunteers with Habitat for Humanity, traveling to other states to help build homes for those who are less fortunate, and they volunteer with Book Buddies in Bartholomew Consolidated School Corp.

This is the fifth year they have volunteered to help elementary schoolchildren who are struggling with reading by offering one-on-one tutoring.

“The whole concept is so important,” Bill said. “The community steps up with the goal of helping these kids.”

Other volunteer work includes assisting with the Inclusive Community Coalition efforts through their church, First Presbyterian, and Heritage Fund: The Community Foundation of Bartholomew County.

Bill also lends his medical services to Volunteers in Medicine and stays active by playing tennis and riding his bike.

PRIME TIME • FEBRUARY 2013 • 33

[profile] Ann enjoys walking along the trails near their Tipton Lakes home but took some time off in 2011 when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. It was a difficult time, but she feels fortunate that after a lumpectomy and radiation, she is doing well. Since breast cancer runs in her family, she was able to have genetic testing to help her decide which type of treatment was best for her.

The temporary health scare in no way slowed her down. She is back tutoring in the Book Buddies program, helped with an “Arts for Aids” fundraiser in December and is gearing up for the “Bubbles, Bags and Brunch” fundraiser in May for the Granny Connection.

“Ann is such an incredibly hard worker for so many causes,” said family friend Sian Goldsmid, a member of Granny Connection.

She admires how generous Ann and Bill are with their time, whether it’s traveling to another state to help build a home through Habitat for Humanity or mowing a friend’s yard if someone has been ill.

“And they are happy to do it,” said Goldsmid, adding that they are just fun people who generate enthusiasm.

Jo Lucas, who has known the Joneses for more than 20 years, said both are models for being kind, caring people.

“I am just so full of admiration for their work,” Lucas said. “Two words come to mind when I think of Ann: passionate and dedicated. And Bill was always an invested, compassionate physician and an excellent athlete.

And his humor was a delight.”

The Joneses also are planning a fun getaway to Costa Rica and trips to see their children and grandchildren.

Their daughter, Marcy McDonough, and her husband, Brian, live in College Station, Texas, with their 5-year-old twins, Katie and Brady.

Their son, Brad “Emmit” Jones and his wife, Erika, live in Cincinnati with their sons Xavier, 8, and Asher, 5.

After growing up together in Monroe, Mich., and enjoying 44 years of marriage, Bill and Ann know they are fortunate to have the life they’ve had — and to have each other.

“We’ve been so blessed,” Bill said. “We’ve had the opportunity to have a good life.” PT 34 • FEBRUARY 2013 • PRIME TIME

photos by Carla Clark

Top, Display for Granny Connection created by Greg Benson at Advantage One with photos provided by Ann Jones. Above, Bill and Ann Jones go through photos of their trips for Granny Connection.

Republic file photo

Ann Jones, left, and Mary Johnston working at the Granny Connection booth at the Columbus Farmer’s Market.

submitted photos

Above, Bill and Ann with Chris, the physician and founder of Faith Alive Clinic in Nigeria. Right, Ann poses with the family they stayed with while working at Faith Alive Clinic.

PRIME TIME • FEBRUARY 2013 • 35

lifestyle

Women lost spouses but find understanding and camaraderie in weekly dinners

By Sharon Mangas Photos by Greg Jones

L

aughter rings out from a back table at Denny’s, where a lively group of women is ordering dinner. It’s WOW. These “Widows of Wisdom” range in age from 66 to 90. They meet weekly to have dinner, swap stories and offer one another moral support. Their common denominator is membership at First Christian Church, where most attend the same church circle.

Their informal weekly gathering averages anywhere from four to 10 women, and they rotate among area restaurants. They like keeping the group small. “If there are more than 10 at the table, you get too many conversations going,” says Pat Meyer, 74, unofficial WOW leader, with a grin.

The group started several years ago when Meyer and another widowed friend, the late Dica Forgey,

36 • FEBRUARY 2013 • PRIME TIME

Widows

of Wisdom

After everyone is finished eating, a quick discussion is held to determine where to hold the next gathering. Florence Westendorf, left, Pat Tovey, Marnie Carr, and Pat Meyer make notes in their calendars, while Carmen Mangas, Barbara Voelz and Alta Morris continue the conversation.

PRIME TIME • FEBRUARY 2013 • 37

[lifestyle]

began going out for dinner to help dispel loneliness. Before long, it blossomed into a weekly “sup & support” group as the two reached out to other widows in their church circle. “It’s nice to fellowship with Christian women who’ve experienced the same loss,” says Meyer, who lost husband Fred nine years ago.

The women come from many different backgrounds but find unity helping one another cope with living alone.

Peg Stambaugh, 80, has been widowed the longest. Her husband, Don, passed away in 1972. She had four children at home then, ages 9 to 20. When asked how she coped with her loss, she credits her faith.

“Since I’m a Christian and a Bible student, the first thing I did was to make a decision to trust God.” For anyone newly widowed, Stambaugh advises: “Strengthen friendships you have. Make new friends. Volunteer if you’re able; work if you need to or want to.

Don’t be a nuisance to your children.”

Pat Tovey, married to husband Gene for 60 years, was widowed last June. She appreciates the moral support she gets from her WOW friends. “It’s nice not to be alone for an evening meal.”

Tovey, like Stambaugh, advises keeping busy. She enjoys hosting lunch at her home every Saturday for any family members available.

“It ranges from two to 10 people,” says Tovey. “I like to cook.”

Barbara Voelz, 78, lost her husband, Jack, four years ago. Voelz, too, believes in staying active. “I’m in two euchre groups, play dominoes and go out for lunch with different friends several times a month. I also volunteer at the USO at Camp Atterbury.”

Voelz has local family support but says, “It’s important to have a strong church family, too.” She tried a grief support group but prefers the dinner group for its upbeat nature.

Carmen Mangas, 83, a relative newcomer, moved to Columbus to be close to family when husband Jack’s health began failing.

After his death from Alzheimer’s three years ago, her new friends helped her cope.

38 • FEBRUARY 2013 • PRIME TIME

Below: Pat Tovey reaches for her order. The women meet weekly at various local restaurants.

Opposite page: Bound by their strong faith, the women pray before every meal.

“Strengthen friendships you have. Make new friends.

Volunteer if you’re able; work if you need to or want to. Don’t be a nuisance to your children.”

— Peg Stambaugh

“WOW’s a great group of warm, funny, caring women. We lend support when needed, but mostly we enjoy having friendly ears to hear the bloopers and highlights of our weeks.”

— Carmen Mangas

“You have to push yourself. Get acquainted with other widows, go to church and don’t feel sorry for yourself.

You’re not alone.”

— Florence Westendorf

“Joining First Christian opened the door to a wonderful group of friends. WOW’s a great group of warm, funny, caring women.

We lend support when needed, but mostly we enjoy having friendly ears to hear the bloopers and highlights of our weeks.”

LeAnne Anderson’s husband, Tom, passed away in 2011, after 47 years of marriage. Like many of the others, she credits her faith for bringing her through the loss, but also advises new widows, “Don’t be in a hurry to make decisions. Set goals. Stay active and interested in the world around you. When life seems overwhelming, make a list of things you’re grateful for. Keep it handy and add to it as new things come to mind.”

Alta Morris moved to Columbus from Azalia in 1992, when husband Albert retired from farming. They were married 57 years before his death in 2009. She values her WOW friends. “It’s my support group with church friends. Keeping busy helps me cope.”

Marnie Carr, 66, youngest of the group, was married to Jim for 33 years before his death 12 years ago. She enjoys the camaraderie of WOW. “These ladies are just special, godly women … plus fun.” She finds decision-making a big challenge to living on her own but says “You just learn to live with your loss. Jim would not have wanted me grieving and being a basket case. If I’m lonely, I find something to do.”

Florence Westendorf, 90, the most senior member of WOW, lost husband Fred two years ago but stays positive. “You have to push yourself. Get acquainted with other widows, go to church and don’t feel sorry for yourself. You’re not alone.”

When the food arrives, conversation quiets, and the women clasp hands and pray. During dinner, talk revolves around issues of the day — Medicare, Social Security, the state of the economy.

And the most important topic of all, grandkids. As plates are cleared, plans are made for the next outing. After a round of goodbyes, everyone heads for home. Dinner and companionship, the perfect WOW comfort food combo. It’s their recipe for success. PT

PRIME TIME • FEBRUARY 2013 • 39

health

Reading glasses: a sure sign of middle age

By Kelly Merritt

P

resbyopia. Almost of us will experience it. The onset of what’s called presbyopia is what dictates the need for reading glasses — something most men and women approaching middle age dread.

The U.S. National Library of Medicine defines presbyopia as a condition in which the lens of the eye loses its ability to focus: The elasticity of the lens slowly diminishes with age. This causes us to have difficulty focusing on nearby objects.

Age 45 seems to be the magic number — that’s when most of us realize we need reading glasses.

It happens to both people with normal vision and

40 • FEBRUARY 2013 • PRIME TIME

those who have had Lasik corrective surgery.

It often begins with the realization that reading small print in a phone directory, the ingredients on a can label or some print in an e-reader has become difficult, if not impossible. Most of the time, this loss of nearsightedness is due to aging.

But there can be other causes.

“Eye health is often overlooked because diseases that affect the eyes occur gradually and without pain and the effects may also be monocular, only in one eye, so that unless you cover the bad eye you may not notice the impairment,” says Dr. Jeffrey Willig, an ophthalmologist.

“Just as a mother may not notice the growth of a child because it is very gradual, until Grandma comes and is amazed at how tall the child has become, we may not notice the loss of vision or the change in colors over long periods of time.”

Over-the-counter reading glasses are available, but they’re not for everyone. An eye examination is recommended to ensure the correct strength.

“Although some people do not need a prescription to get reading glasses, which we refer to as ‘over-the-counter readers’ or just ‘readers,’ these are usually only for people who have never worn glasses or contact lenses,” says Willig.

“While using readers is not dangerous, the wrong readers may cause symptoms of eye strain we call asthenopia,” he says.

Asthenopia can include headaches, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, neck pain from straining to see and pain adjacent to the eye area.

Amy Spence, who recently celebrated her 48th birthday, concedes she had procrastinated about getting reading glasses for years. For her, it was about the hassle of having to keep up with glasses.

“I don’t carry a purse and would see my friends having to dig around for their glasses at restaurants and having to wait to be able to read the menu, so to have to constantly keep up with them seemed like a hassle to me,” she said.

Spence changed her mind when she realized that her inability to read things close up was affecting her love of reading.

“It definitely pushed me to go get glasses, because it got to the point that I had to stretch my arms to be able to read my iPad at night,” says Spence, who had to obtain prescription lenses. “I had laser surgery years and years ago, so I knew this day would come eventually.”

Spence says now she doesn’t even notice her glasses and wearing them has become like second nature to her.

According to a survey published in 20/20 Magazine, nearly half of eyewear retailers who participated reported that reading glasses sales have skyrocketed. Those sales are largely due to the increase in procedures like Lasik. As Willig says,

PRIME TIME • FEBRUARY 2013 • 41

[health]

people who have had Lasik to correct distance vision will eventually need reading glasses by age 45.

“Some Lasik patients may purposely be undercorrected for distance to allow them to read without glasses,” he says. “They may opt for monovision, which is one eye corrected for reading and one for distance.”

The attitude toward reading glasses has shifted astronomically. Retro reading glasses such as those worn generations ago have become fashionable. Custom reading glasses have become all the rage, a new way for people to express themselves.

Provided you know the correct strength, you can

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“Just as a mother may not notice the growth of a child because it is very gradual, until Grandma comes and is amazed at how tall the child has become, we may not notice the loss of vision or the change in colors over long periods of time.”

— Dr. Jeffrey Willig

Cel

now obtain glasses that reflect personal style online. Companies like Reading Glasses, Etc. (www. readingglassesetc.com) are capitalizing on the hype and offering products ranging from rhinestone to sculpted frames.

Even if you suspect it’s time for reading glasses, Willig says self-diagnosis is never a good idea.

“Since vision loss is gradual and painless, everyone should see an eye doctor for a routine exam once a year, and, of course, if you do have any symptoms, such as loss of vision, pain or a red eye, you should seek attention immediately.” PT — Scripps Howard News Service

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PRIME TIME • FEBRUARY 2013 • 43

calendar of events

February 16-24 — Columbus Canstruction. Free. 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Fair Oaks Mall. Teams of architects, engineers, businesses and community groups will compete to design and build objects made from thousands of cans of food.

While showcasing their design and artistic talents, teams will donate hundreds of thousands of pounds of food to fight hunger. Information: 376-7468 or info@paragonme.net.

february February

15

— Yes Cinema Comedy Showcase – Tim Cavanaugh. 8 p.m., Yes Cinema. $20 advance/$25 at the door. Information: yescinema.org.

44 • FEBRUARY 2013 • PRIME TIME

16

— First Presbyterian Music Series: Indianapolis Youth Chorale.

7:30 p.m., 512 Seventh St. Offering will be collected. Child care available upon calling.

Information: 372-3783.

17

— Columbus Symphony Orchestra Concert: The Elements Aligned.

(Family Concert), 3:30 p.m., Columbus North High School auditorium. Guest artist: Emma Peters, violin.

march March

1

— Old National Bank’s First Fridays For Families – Bongo Boy Drum Circle.

6 p.m., The Commons. A Bongo Boy Drum Circle is a great community activity. It is a place where everybody is welcome regardless of their level of musical expertise and drumming knowledge. In fact, no experience is necessary, just a willingness to participate and have fun. Information: 376-2539 or caac@ artsincolumbus.org.

1

-3 — “The Drowsy Chaperone.”

Columbus North auditorium. Presented

by Columbus North Drama Department Productions. Information: 376-4236.

2

— St. Bartholomew Concert Series: Young Musicians Concert. 7 p.m., 1306 27th St. Free event. Information: 379-9353, ext.

237.

23

— Columbus Bluegrass Jamboree Concert. Free, Donner Center, 739 22nd St. Open jam sessions begin at 4 p.m.; group performances at 5. Information: www. columbusparksandrec.com or 376-2680.

april April

5

— First Fridays for Families. Jumble of Classic Fairy Tales, 6 p.m., The Commons.

Performed by Dancers Studio. Free event.

Information: 376-2534 or email: caac@ artsincolumbus.org.

February 23 — Indiana University Harp Ensemble. 7:30 p.m., Asbury United Methodist Church, 1751 27th St. Offering will be collected.

6

— Joy! Beethoven’s 9th. The Columbus Indiana Philharmonic. 7:30 p.m., Columbus North High School auditorium. Admission: Starting at $10, student and senior prices available. Information/tickets: 376-2638, ext.

110, or email tickets@thecip.org.

13

— Caring Parents Don’t Shake Run/Walk. 8:30 a.m., Southside Elementary School, 1320 W. County Road 200S. Entry fees start at $15. Benefits Family Service. Information: 372-3745 or email cshehan@familyservicebc.org.

PRIME TIME • FEBRUARY 2013 • 45

[calendar]

21

— First Presbyterian Music Series: Adult Choir Concert. 9:30 a.m., 512 Seventh St. Offering will be collected.

Information: 372-3783.

27

— Love is in the Air at The Phil.

The Columbus Indiana Philharmonic, 7:30 p.m., Columbus North High School auditorium. Admission: Starting at $10, student and senior prices available.

Information: 376-2638, ext. 110 or email tickets@thecip.org.

28

— Columbus Symphony Orchestra Concert: Pictures at an Exhibition.

3:30 p.m., Columbus North High School auditorium. Guest artist: Andrew Lunsford, tenor.

April 12 — Yes Cinema Comedy Showcase – Costaki Economopoulos.

8 p.m., Yes Cinema. $20 advance/$25 at the door. Information: yescinema.org.

may May

11 March 17 — First Presbyterian Music Series: Four-Hand Organ Concert.

Featuring Colin Andrews and Janette Fishell, 3 p.m., 512 Seventh St. Child care available upon calling. Offering will be collected. Information: 372-3783.

46 • FEBRUARY 2013 • PRIME TIME

— St. Bartholomew Concert Series: Ivory Keys. 7 p.m., 1306 27th St. Free event featuring pianist Ray Kilburn, Ball State University faculty member. Information: 3799353, ext. 237 or bminut_stb@yahoo.com.

17

— Yes Cinema Comedy Showcase – David Dyer. 8 p.m., Yes Cinema. $20 advance/$25 at the door. Information: yescinema.org.

May 24 — Salute, 7 p.m., Bartholomew County Memorial for Veterans, Second and Washington streets. Columbus Indiana Philharmonic’s free concert in honor of those who have served and who serve in the U.S. Armed Forces.

Information: 376-2638, ext. 110 or email tickets@thecip.org.

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PRIME TIME • FEBRUARY 2013 • 47

My Back Pages Sharon Mangas

I’m ready in case Tina Turner calls

W

elcome to my back pages. If you came of age in the ’60s as I did, you may remember “My Back Pages” as the title of a Bob Dylan song. So, my title pays homage to a favorite Dylan song, but it also seemed appropriate for this writing venture, this being the last page and all. And on yet another level, at age 61, I feel as if I’m living the back pages of my life. As Dylan sang: “Ah, but I was so much older then, I’m younger than that now.”

Prime time, golden years, back pages. A time for bucket lists, reflections, a few regrets and thankfulness for the fullness of life.

I moved to Columbus in January 1978 with my husband, Mike. We were in our late 20s.

Married barely a year, we were expecting our first child and starting a new business. Lots of changes happened fast. Until we moved to Columbus, I’d never lived in one place for long.

I lived a gypsy life growing up, but I yearned to settle down. So settle we did.

We’ve been in Columbus 35 years and just marked our 36th wedding anniversary. Where did the time go? I feel as if I’m living in a timelapse movie. Our sons are 34 and 33 now, and last spring we became grandparents.

I’ve done at least one thing on my bucket list. As a child, I saw a photo on the cover of National Geographic showing Lady Bird Johnson rafting the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon. I decided right then and there I wanted to do that someday. It finally happened in 1997, when my husband and I celebrated our 20th anniversary by taking a

six-day guided rafting tour through the Grand Canyon. Best. Trip. Ever.

I haven’t made it to Germany to visit where my father’s family came from, but that’s still a possibility. And does anyone out there have a backhoe or bulldozer they’d let me take for a test drive? That would be divine. I think I was a heavy equipment operator in a former life.

Some things on my bucket list are a dream. I know I’ll never be one of Tina Turner’s backup singers/dancers, but wouldn’t that be a blast?

My reflections on the passing years frequently involve memories of loved ones who’ve been called home from this life. I wish I could pick up the phone and call my mother. She was always in my corner. She read and edited everything I wrote. She was my biggest fan. There are many times I think, “Now why didn’t I ask Mom about that?”

If you still have your parents, or other older loved ones, take my advice: Ask the questions now. One day it will be too late.

Regrets? The standard ones. I wish I’d been a little more patient with my kids. I wish I’d been a little kinder when I could have been.

And less judgmental. But I try not to dwell on the shortcomings. They are what they are. Part of life. I’m thankful for all the ups and downs that have made me who I am.

On this page, I’ll try to keep you amused with my take on the “prime” years. But I want to hear from you, too. What are your dreams, regrets, memories? What’s on your bucket list?

Everyone has a story, so c’mon, bring them to the back page. See you in May!

Sharon Mangas can be reached at sharon.d.mangas@gmail.com.

48 • FEBRUARY 2013 • PRIME TIME

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