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CONTENTS
Focus on Men’s Health Hypertension, Sleep Apnea, The Prostate, and Heat Exposure
Editor’s Letter
Paws for a Cause
Hypertension, Sleep Apnea, The Prostate, and Heat Exposure
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Games
Clear Focus
Crossword & Wordsearch 16
Meet Jinxy
From the Kitchen of
Big Bear’s Wife Old-Fashioned Mock Pecan Pie 18
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FOCUS ON MEN’S HEALTH ISSUE @showcaseDVA
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ALSO INSIDE
FEATURES Focus on Men’s Health
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Confessions of a 30 Something Take Time For Your Own Health 19
A Rooster Walk Reunion 20
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EDITOR’S LETTER
Clear Focus I just came in from a walk through what felt like a hot shower in ninety-degree heat. Why, you ask? Was your car in the shop? Nope. I walked because I made a promise to myself a few weeks ago that I would take measures to be more aware of choices that affect my health. I spend most of my workday at a desk and sitting for that long has wrecked me. Stocks are a popular subject in newsfeeds lately, but your most important asset is your health. People will watch their stocks like a hawk for the slightest fluctuation, but ignore the newest pain compliments of a sedentary lifestyle.
showcase JUNE 2021
CEO Andrew Scott Brooks scott@showcasemagazine.com EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Paul Seiple | paul@showcasemagazine.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kim Demont | demontdesign@verizon.net FINANCE MANAGER Cindy Astin | cindy@showcasemagazine.com ADVERTISING Lee Vogler | Director of Sales and Marketing lee@showcasemagazine.com | 434.548.5335
The choices you make daily have effects on your wellbeing. In life, we take a lot of things for granted, and for many, our health lands on that list. Epictetus once said, “The chief task in life is simply this: to identify and separate matters so that I can say clearly to myself which are externals not under my control, and which have to do with the choices I actually control.”
Kenny Thornton Jr | Account Executive kenny@showcasemagazine.com
Ultimately, your health isn’t under your control, but the choices you make to give yourself the best possible life are. The last year has been rough. It’s taken a toll on physical, emotional, and mental health. My habits changed drastically during the pandemic. Gyms weren’t open. I skipped a workout… and then another one… and another. I could have taken walks, but I sat and looked at Instagram. My choices created a negative impact on my quality of life.
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So, a few weeks ago, I focused more on my health. And that includes taking that daily walk through the humidity stew that summer cooks up. Here’s another humbling experience that taught me about taking my health and fitness for granted. I went to the gym earlier this week. I used to not bat an eye at the leg press. Multiple reps at the maximum weight were the normal for me. After a year of letting myself go, I could only press a third of that weight. I’m being generous. It was less than a third. Sitting is bad for us. Our bodies are meant to be in motion. I’m choosing to move from now own, no matter the circumstances. Like Epictetus said, you have no control over the externals, but you have complete control over how you react to them. It’s not just me. As you will read in Lee’s column, he’s slipped a little over the last year. But he’s making the moves to the steer the ship in the right direction. This month, we focus on men’s health. But most of the subjects we tackle apply to everyone. We hope you find this health talk issue informative and inspirational. Get moving and take care of your body.
Enjoy the issue.
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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Angie Barrett | Johnny Buck | Paulette Dean Lee Vogler CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Angie Barrett | Captured Portraiture Ryan Guite | Lee Vogler COVER Brandon Griffin, Bryant Hood, Mark Aron photo by Captured Potraiture
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FEATURE FOCUS ON MEN’S HEALTH: HYPERTENSION
Focus: Hypertension PHOTOS BY CAPTURED PORTRAITURE
H
ypertension is the term used for high blood pressure. You can have high blood pressure for years without ever experiencing any symptoms. It increases your risk of many serious health issues including heart attack and stroke. Because it isn’t a condition that jumps out and bites you, it doesn’t appear on the radar screen of many men. It’s important to know your numbers and change your lifestyle accordingly, but once you are diagnosed with hypertension, what’s next? Once someone has been diagnosed with hypertension, depending on how elevated their blood pressure is, one option is a three-to-six-month trial of lifestyle intervention. Lifestyle intervention involves regular physical exercise, weight loss, low-sodium diet, and avoiding alcohol. If within the agreed time span these conservative measures help to bring down blood pressure, then medications may not be needed. When conservative measures fail, it’s usually because the patient cannot lose weight or stick to a low-sodium diet. In that case, or when the blood pressure is extremely high (like 160 systolic - the first number in the blood pressure number) beginning medication immediately is the solution. Although normal blood pressure is 120/80, more aggressive measures may be taken with diabetic patients who have stricter target numbers. Many studies have shown hypertension is a proven clinical risk factor for poor cardiovascular outcomes, like heart attacks and strokes. If you keep your blood pressure down, then you decrease your chances of heart attacks and strokes. It’s as plain as that.
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FEATURE FOCUS ON MEN’S HEALTH: SLEEP APNEA
Focus: Sleep Apnea PHOTO BY CAPTURED PORTRAITURE
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t’s difficult to get a good night’s sleep if you have a partner who snores. But did you know that snoring can be a sign of sleep apnea? All snoring is not sleep apnea, but when the snoring stops for a moment and there is a pause in breathing followed by a loud snort or choking sound, then it is likely sleep
apnea. Sleep apnea is a very serious condition where an individual’s breathing is interrupted during sleep. It can have deadly repercussions. Often sleep apnea is caused by how your neck and throat change when you’re sleeping. Your muscle tone relaxes and all the soft tissue collapses on your airway. You are basically depriving yourself of oxygen while you’re sleeping. When you wake up you have a headache, a dry mouth, and you feel terrible. You are being jerked out of the deep restorative sleep and spend more time in light sleep. You end up with daytime sleepiness. This sluggishness can cause an increased risk of accidents, poor concentration, and slow reflexes. If left untreated, sleep apnea may worsen many health issues including high blood pressure, stroke, diabetes, depression, ADHD, and heart conditions such as irregular heartbeat, heart attack, and heart failure. Obstructive sleep apnea is a big problem with hypertension because even though you are taking your blood pressure medications you can’t get it under control. Because the real problem is the obstructive sleep apnea. There is a significant catch-22 centered on sleep apnea: obesity and weight gain. Weight gain can bring on sleep apnea for several reasons, not the least of which is the increase in neck size. While at the same time, sleep apnea can lead to weight gain. It’s a deadly cycle. With treatment, you can control the symptoms and regain control over your sleep. You will quickly realize what you’ve been missing out on when you are refreshed and alert every day. You primary care physician can speak with you about sleep apnea and make recommendations about the best course of treatment for your particular situation. In the interim, try sleeping on your side. For obstructive sleep apnea, this simple change to your routine can often help keep your airway open and help you get a restful night of sleep.
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FEATURE FOCUS ON MEN’S HEALTH: THE PROSTATE
Focus: The Prostate PHOTO BY CAPTURED PORTRAITURE
P
rostate cancer is a form of cancer we often hear about, but if you ask the common person, chances are they know little about it. According to the American Cancer Society, other than skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men. It accounts for the second most number of cancer deaths in men. But don’t panic. In most cases, there is time to make an informed decision. The prostate is a gland found only in men. The size varies with age; in younger men it is the size of a walnut, while in older men, it is typically much larger. If you are diagnosed with one of the three general issues (inflammation, enlargement, or cancer) of the prostate, it’s important to discuss with your doctor all of your options. Inflammation is usually caused by an infection and is treated with antibiotics. Enlargement is usually caused by aging and is treated with medication or surgery. Cancer is treated with surgery, radiation, hormone therapy, and chemotherapy. And depending on the risk-reward matrix, some doctors may recommend watchful waiting which is to delay treatment and see what happens. Prostate cancer may not cause signs or symptoms in its early stages, however, in its more advanced stages, symptoms can include: • Trouble urinating • Decreased force in the stream of urine • Blood or semen in the urine • Swelling in the legs • Discomfort in the pelvic area • Bone pain A regular checkup usually includes a Digital (Finger) Rectum Exam. As you get older, a Prostate-Specific Antigen test will tell if the prostate has become overactive which indicates you should look deeper into the issue. A high PSA number may require you to have a biopsy to check for cancer. www.showcasemagazine.com
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FEATURE FOCUS ON MEN’S HEALTH: HEAT EXPOSURE
Focus: Heat Exposure PHOTO BY CAPTURED PORTRAITURE
H
eat is the number one weather-related killer in America. According to National Weather Service, extreme heat kills 130 people each year.
Overexposure to heat can be incredibly dangerous, especially for children and the elderly. With summer just beginning, it’s essential that we’re all heat smart. This means taking steps to prevent overexposure and learning to recognize and respond to the signs of heat stroke. Here are some tips for beating the heat this summer: • Be aware of temperatures and humidity levels, and change your activities appropriately. • Limit outdoor activities from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., when temperatures are highest.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of low-sugar or no-sugar fluids. • Stay in relatively cool areas, even when outside. • Avoid hot enclosed places, such as cars and garages. Never leave children or animals unattended in a car, especially when parked in the sun. • Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothing. • Avoid or limit your use of alcohol, as it can impair your body’s ability to regulate its temperature. If overexposure to heat occurs, it’s important to recognize the signs of heat stroke. Heat stroke is a form of hyperthermia (abnormally elevated body temperature) with accompanying physical and neurological symptoms. Unlike heat exhaustion, a less-severe form of hyperthermia, heat stroke is a true medical emergency that can be fatal if not quickly and appropriately treated. Another cause of heat stroke is dehydration. Signs of overexposure to heat include: • Pale, clammy skin; • Muscle cramps; • Headache; • Feeling tired and weak; • Nausea or vomiting; • Confusion or disorientation; and/or • Becoming semi-conscious or passing out. If you or someone you encounter is experiencing a heatinduced illness: • Call 9-1-1. • Get the person out of the sun immediately. • Apply water to help the person cool off. • Apply ice to the neck or armpits, where large blood vessels are close to the surface. • Remove any heavy clothing. For more information on heat safety, visit www.redcross. org (keyword search: heat) or talk to your physician.
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EXTRA GAMES
Games
Crossword Puzzle ACROSS 1 Communication Workers of America (abr.) 4 National capital 9 Held on tightly 14 Movie 2001’s talking computer 15 1997 Madonna movie 16 Dye 17 Artist’s creation 18 Indian tribe emblem 19 Declares 20 Tail 22 Computer memory unit 24 Right-winger 25 Cheese 27 Water pitcher 31 Otherwise 32 Regions 33 Environmental protection agency (abbr) 34 Muslim’s religion 36 Small island 38 Sunbonnet 40 Fling hard 42 Funeral hymn
43 Pretender 44 Bother 45 Hot embers 47 Self-esteems 51 Prayer ending 53 Posttraumatic stress disorder 54 Manner 55 Decorative needle case 57 Jesting 59 Core group 62 Ship’s caulking 65 Label 66 Over 67 Belt leather 68 Dined 69 Clean 70 Incite (2 wds.) 71 Scarlet DOWN 1 Pure 2 Artist Andy 3 Communion tables 4 Vote against 5 Swear 6 Morse code dot 7 Shoshonean
8 African nation 9 Talk 10 Barrier 11 Card game 12 Compass point 13 Ozone 21 Tinting 23 Affirmation 25 Unruly child 26 Rock group 28 Hale 29 Dueling sword 30 Lab animal 32 Wing 35 Her 36 Wrath 37 Newly washed window blemish 38 Thailand 39 Recommend 40 Grip 41 Ship initials 42 Cell stuff 43 Pop (plr.) 45 Central processing unit 46 Useless 48 Rock group instrument
49 Embellished 50 Drooped 52 Sensitive point 56 Adolescent
57 Jujitsu 58 Sign 59 Head cover 60 Abridged (abbr.)
61 Fawn’s mom 63 Back to school mo. 64 Container
Word Search AWARENESS
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MENS HEALTH
PROSTATE
BODY
FITNESS
MIND
SPORT
CARDIOVASCULAR
JOGGING
PREVENTION
STRONGER
COMMITMENT
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EDUCATIONAL
WELLNESS
Answers on Page 22
PAWS FOR A CAUSE
Paws for a Cause WRITTEN BY PAULETTE DEAN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR DANVILLE HUMANE SOCIETY
Good, honorable fathers deserve to have much more than one day dedicated to them. It seems that society today could use a lot more of them!
puppy with impossibly sweet eyes and huge ears. We named him Walter. That first evening, Daddy said that Walter was too young to stay outside, but when he got bigger, he would stay outside most of the time. He also said Walter could not sleep in the beds with us.
Many things about kindness to animals I learned from my father, a tough career Army sergeant with a heart of gold.
After we left his duty station in Hawaii in the early sixties, Walter slept that night we went to Fort Riley, Kansas. with my parents and One private in his company every night after that for had picked up a horned toad his thirteen years of life. from the wild when they were He helped Daddy eat his on maneuvers, and Daddy had nightly snack of pretzels. to tell him he could not keep He went to every place he it in the barracks. Kindhearted could with us. I was taught Daddy told him we would that animals need to be take care of it. It did not take an important part of the many days of Daddy looking family. in the aquarium where the horned toad was kept for him Finally, Daddy never knew to decide it was very unfair to I saw him trying to rescue This two-year-old Persian is a neutered, declawed boy. keep a wild animal confined. a baby bird from the He came to us when his owner became allergic to him. Daddy said he looked so said, basement window well. The so one Saturday, he released memory of hearing him say him in the same area where the private had picked it up. “Come on, little buddy, hop up on the broom” and “Don’t be scared; I’m going to help you” still brings tears to my eyes. Sadly, the puppy he brought home shortly after that died of distemper. The lessons of gentle treatment of a The world can learn lessons of kindness from good, suffering animal will never be forgotten. honorable, kind men.
MEET JINXY
After Kansas, Daddy was stationed in Germany, and military family quarters offered little options for pets. Next, we moved to California for his last duty station before retiring. One evening when I stayed home, my father, mother, and sister went grocery shopping and stopped in a pet store for hamster food. When they got home, I was asked to get the last bag out of the back seat. Instead of a bag of groceries, I found a little brown male
DANVILLE HUMANE SOCIETY
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FEATURE BIG BEAR’S WIFE
From the Kitchen of
Big Bear’s Wife Old-Fashioned Mock Pecan Pie WRITTEN BY ANGIE BARRETT OF BIGBEARSWIFE.COM PHOTO BY ANGIE BARRETT
Old-Fashioned Mock Pecan Pie is a vintage pie recipe that is also known as “Depression Pie” or “Oatmeal Pie” and it was popular in the 1920s and 1930s during the depression. PREP TIME: 10m; CHILL TIME: 1h; TOTAL TIME: 1h 10m; YIELD: 6-8 Servings INGREDIENTS • 9-inch pie shell - unbaked • 3/4 cup oatmeal • 3/4 cup light corn syrup • 4 tablespoons salted butter, super soft or melted • 3/4 cup sugar • 2 eggs, cracked and whisked INSTRUCTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 350F. 2. Mix ingredients together in a large bowl. 3. Pour mixture into unbaked pie crust. 4. Bake for 1 hour. 5. Remove and let cool. 6. Serve plain, with ice cream or with whipped cream.
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CONFESSIONS OF A 30 SOMETHING
Confessions of a 30 Something Take Time For Your Own Health BY LEE VOGLER PHOTO BY LEE VOGLER
June is Men’s Health Awareness Month. In this edition of Showcase, you’ll find great info on what you should do to keep your physical health in check. I won’t give you advice on any of that. After all, I’m not a medical professional, and frankly, not even someone who’s in peak shape these days. The pandemic year and raising two young kids hasn’t been kind to your boy. I am, however, someone who is striving to do better.
summer, it’s pretty good for cardio. I mention all of that to say this: take time for yourself. Sleep a little more. Stress a little less. Jog around your neighborhood. Go to a yoga class. You will feel better, mentally and physically. I’m doing my best to take that advice myself, and look forward to a happier, and healthier, year ahead.
The great metabolism and genetics I was blessed with for most of my life have slowly left me behind. Gone are the days when I could drink sodas and eat bacon, while never gaining a pound. These days I’m eating healthier than I probably ever have, but still struggle to lose the weight I put on this past year. I don’t know the definitive answer for this, but I have a few guesses. I don’t sleep nearly enough. I’m lucky if I get five hours in a night. I’ve completely dropped the ball, no pun intended, this past year when it comes to exercise. I’d gotten so used to playing softball 4 or 5 times a week that when we weren’t allowed to play last year, I never replaced that activity with something else. Now I know what you’re thinking, “Softball? Come on, Lee. That’s not much of a workout.” In your beer league, perhaps not, but my friends and I play like we’re in game 7 of the World Series, with life itself hanging in the balance. So in the heat of the
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| JUNE 2021 | SHOWCASE Magazine 19
EXPLORE A ROOSTER WALK REUNION
A Rooster Walk Reunion BY JOHNNY BUCK PHOTO BY RYAN GUITE
As the United States grew vaccination totals, and slowly lessened restrictions governing social interaction, millions of Americans began reuniting with family and friends. Whether it was a long awaited hug between a grandparent and grandchild, or that first dinner among friends in what felt like forever, these moments, once taken for granted, were received with joyous celebration. Things are no different at the headquarters of Rooster Walk, a nonprofit in Martinsville that raises money for local charities through live music events. Though their keynote event, the Rooster Walk Music & Arts Festival, typically held in late May, was cancelled for the second
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consecutive year, organizers Johnny Buck and William Baptist had plans to get the whole festival family back together for a new fall event that will feature three days of music, arts, food, camping, dancing, laughing and more. The Rooster Walk Reunion music festival will take place October 8-10 at Pop’s Farm, the idyllic music venue in Axton that typically hosts 5,000+ patrons over Memorial Day weekend. “The Rooster Walk Reunion is exactly what it sounds like,” said Buck, who, along with Baptist, put on the first Rooster Walk Music & Arts Festival in 2009. “We want to bring
our whole festival family back together. The folks we love, and the folks who love us. The entire band lineup consists of acts that have played at least one prior Rooster Walk, and some have played all 11. We’re bringing back our favorite food and craft vendors. And, of course, we can’t wait for the fans to return to Pop’s. Our fans are the heart and soul of the festival, even more than the bands. It’s been way too long, and we’ve all been hurting without live music during this pandemic. This is going to be a beautiful, cathartic event for everyone.” The Reunion will be smaller than a normal Rooster Walk, with attendance capped at 2,500 for the three-day event. That’s because, simply put, the organizers wanted to plan a festival that had the best possible chance of being allowed to take place by state authorities. Pop’s Farm and its 150 acres provide ample room for folks to spread out, not to mention on-site camping for motorhomes and tents. Progressive bluegrass titans The Infamous Stringdusters will headline the festival, along with the Robert Randolph Band, Melvin Seals & JGB, BIG Something, TAUK, Pimps of Joytime, Larry Keel Experience, Yarn, Big Daddy Love, Jon Stickley Trio and approximately 20 more bands. Musical acts will cover a wide range or genres, including rock, blues, jam, funk, bluegrass, country and more. Tickets are now on sale and going fast. For a full list of the band lineup, and ticket information, visit www.RoosterWalk.com. The festival organizers will implement rigorous safety and sanitation measures, working closely with state and local health department officials throughout the planning and execution process. “Our number one goal is to make the festival safe and fun,” said Buck. “We’re getting the whole gang back together at Pop’s, and new family members are always welcome.” www.showcasemagazine.com
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Games Solutions Continued from Page 16
Crossword Puzzle
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