Golden Gazette December 2023 by Gary McDonald

Volume 35, Number 12

December 2023

In December & Inside

1 First Friday Art Trail 2nd Carol of Lights & Texas Tech’s 100 Year Celebration ends .......................... Page 5 nd 2 Roundable meeting .......................Page 2 7th Hanukkah begins 8th New Neighbors..............................Page 3 8th & 9th Candlelight at the Ranch.....Page 23 9th Jazzy Christmas Concert .............Page 24 9th - Miracles Christmas Parade ..........Page 3 20th Alzheimer’s Support Group 21st - First day of winter 25th - Christmas Day 31st - New Year’s Eve ‘Tis the Season ...................................Page 8 Recipe – Sweet Potato Hash.............Page 23 That doctor/patient relationship .........Page 9 Joe Arrington Cancer Center ............Page 12 Christmas events at Redeemer ..........Page 4 CASA received $7,500 grant ...............Page 2 Special holiday traditions ................Page 14 Candlelight at the Ranch Lubbock music NOW .........................Page 17 Lessons on longevity.........................Page 19 Heaven’s Harsh Tableland ................Page 20 How to calm anxiety .........................Page 22 At the Cactus Theater Senior Secret Santa ..........................Page 24 At the Cactus Theater .......................Page 11 Function may be preserved ................ Page 4 Jan. 6th & 7th – Gun & Blade Show ......Page 3 st

Santa Land

6 to 10 p.m. Dec. 9 - 21 600 Cesar Chavez Drive

24 Pages

Lubbock, Texas 79423

Page 2 • December 2023 • Golden Gazette When you see something at an independent store that costs a little more, try to remember that Amazon & eBay don’t buy ads in the local football program. Wal-Mart won’t donate prizes to your silent auction, and Target doesn’t help kids playing little league in your community. Small business owners DO, and they offer better customer service because they do it face-to-face. Support your local small business owners. They are the backbone of this country.

Roundable meeting set for Dec. 2 Roundtable celebrated more than 55 years of memories in November. Monte Monroe and Jim Reardon along with a few others brought back a lot of memories of the past. On Dec. 2 Dr. Rob Peaslee, the new associate dean of the Honors College, along with 2 students who received scholarships will be the speakers. Then the scholarship check will be presented. RSVP to mevans1398@aol.com or 806-281-3181, call or text, by Nov. 30 so the kitchen can know what to plan. Price is $18 cash or check made out to Roundtable. Anything extra you want to give goes into the scholarship fund. The meeting is at Carillon Senior Living, 1717 Norfolk Ave., Pointe Plaza building in the Cimarron Room next to the main dining room. Roundtable will not meet in January, so the next meeting will be Feb. 3.

CASA receives $ 7,500 grant to fund out-of-region child visit support

The Community Foundation of West Texas has awarded CASA of the South Plains a $7,500 grant to help CASA Volunteer Advocates visit children in foster care who have been placed in homes outside of the six counties CASA serves. Over the last 30 years, CASA has fiercely advocated for the best interest of children who have been placed in foster care at no fault of their own. CASA’s priority is to speak up for these children in the courtroom, ultimately working to ensure permanency is achieved for every single child. Visiting each child in person, no matter the distance, is integral to the advocacy work CASA volunteers are doing. These out-of-region visits include traveling hundreds of miles and seeing as many children as possible over a 3–4day window. Volunteers and paid staff members must travel to Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, and many other places, including outside of Texas, to ensure that these children feel seen, heard, and cared for. “CASA promises these children that we will be a consistent presence in their lives,” said Jaclyn Morris, executive director of CASA of the South Plains. “These funds allow us to fulfill that promise. No child deserves to slip through the cracks, no matter how far away they are.” Research has shown that laughing for 2 minutes is just as healthy as a 20-minute jog. So now I’m sitting in the park laughing at all the joggers.

Golden Gazette • December 2023 • Page 3

Neighbors Christmas Miracles Christmas Parade, Dec. 9 New music program, Dec. 8 The 18th Annual Miracles Christmas Parade is set for 6 p.m. Dec. 9. The nighttime, lighted parade features Santa Claus and approximately 30 parade units, including more than 20 floats from area businesses and non-profit groups. The parade route is down 34th Street starting at Avenue Q, going west to Indiana Avenue. Parade Chairman is Jason Davis and one of several Wrangler volunteers who produce and host the event. This year’s parade theme is “Twinkle of Hope.” Groups and floats are asked to use as many lights as possible, with a minimum of 1,000 lights per vehicle. The website, www.miraclesparade.com, has complete information about the parade, along with the downloadable application to be a participant in the parade. The parade is a United States Marine Toys For Tots event

New Neighbors Club of Lubbock will hold its December general meeting and luncheon at 10:30 a.m. Dec. 8. Cost for the luncheon is $20. Karleigh Porterfield and Jonny Keys will provide a Christmas music program. The event will be at the Lubbock Women’s Club, 2020 Broadway. Text Roni Allen at 281-507-4083 or email her at okieroni1@gmail.com to make a reservation.

G N & BLADE SHOW Sat. 9-5 Sun. 10-5

to gather unwrapped toys for needy children in this area. 2023 is the 76th Anniversary of the Toys For Tots in America. The parade is open for local and area businesses to have a float or vehicles in the lighted parade as well as any non-profit groups, schools, families, and organizations. The deadline for completed applications from par-

ticipants is 6 p.m. Dec. 5. All applications and documents are on the website. A mandatory meeting for all parade participants will be held on Dec. 5 at the Sunset Family Life Building at 3631 34th St.

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Page 4 • December 2023 • Golden Gazette

Function may be preserved by managing cardiovascular disease risk factors The majority of previcent of older adults have tional analyses and change program at the Marcus Inously published studies have muscle weakness and di- in gait speed (a measure of stitute. Blood flow declines with utilized cross-sectional study minished physical function physical function) in longiaging, in part due to arte- designs with modest sample that leads to adverse health tudinal analyses. This is one of the first rial stiffening. Consequent sizes. outcomes and physical disThe authors said they beability,” said lead author community-based studies to dysfunction in blood vessel comprehensively examine dynamics may contribute to lieve future studies should Shivani Sahni, PhD. “Since loss of physical the relationship of aortic organ pathology and declines evaluate whether intervenfunction contributes to re- stiffness and vascular func- in muscle mass, explained tions that target vascular health may reduce age-reduced mobility, disability, tion with age-related decline Sahni. Few studies have spe- lated declines in physical institutionalization, and mor- in physical function. Higher aortic stiffness was cifically assessed the role function. tality, management of CVD One third of older adults risk factors can help preserve associated with loss of physi- of vascular function, and physical function with age.” cal function over ~11 years, changes in functional muscle experience physical limitaThis article, titled “As- said Sahni, who is an associ- measures such as mobility tions contributing to reduced mobility, disability, institusociation of Vascular Health ate professor of medicine at and muscle strength. Redeemer Lutheran The current study utilized tionalization, and mortality. Measures and Physical Func- Harvard Medical School and Church in the Heart of LubThere is a need for develtion: A Prospective Analysis an associate scientist at the data from a large cohort of bock Neighborhood will celin the Framingham Heart Hinda and Arthur Marcus relatively healthy men and opment of novel intervenebrate the season of Advent 2023 with several free public Study,” showed that vascular Institute for Aging Research women and extends previous tions that target prevention of investigations by utilizing a physical limitations in older measures are associated with at Hebrew SeniorLife. events. She directs the nutrition longitudinal study design. adults. A Sing-Along is set for 6 grip strength in cross-secp.m. Dec. 17, with popular Christmas hymns and Bible readings. After the SingAlong service, stay around for cookies and hot chocolate. Other events include: Wednesdays, Dec. 6, 13 and 20 at 7 p.m. - midweek service Sunday, Dec. 17 at 6 p.m. - Sing-Along service Sunday, Dec. 24 at 5 p.m. - Christmas Eve service Monday, Dec. 25 at 10 a.m. - Christmas Day service The Christmas Day service will include the Lord’s Supper. See the Communion statement on the home page of https://rlcms.org. Redeemer is a congregation of the “The Nutcracker” will be presented by Ballet Lubbock on Dec. 1-3 and Dec. 8-10 at the Lutheran Church Missouri Buddy Holly Hall of Performing Arts & Sciences. Tickets are on sale at buddyhollyhall.com. Show times and more information is available online at balletlubbock.org. Synod at 2221 Ave. W. Managing cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors may play a role in preserving physical function during the aging process, according to a new research article published in The Journals of Gerontology, Series A: Biological Sciences and Medical Sciences. “Approximately 10 per-

Christmas season events at Redeemer Lutheran Church

Golden Gazette • December 2023 • Page 5

Carol of Lights & Centennial closing ceremony set for Dec. 2 The 65th Annual Carol of Lights on Dec. 2 will serve as the official closing ceremony for Texas Tech’s Centennial Celebration. The annual Carol of Lights, hosted by Texas Tech University and the Residence Halls Association, is one of the oldest traditions. This will be a spectacular evening as Texas Tech’s second century is escorted in. The Carillon Concert will begin at 6:30 p.m.; 7 p.m. - Carol of Lights, in the Science Quadrangle. A clear bag policy will be in effect. The event will be televised locally on KTTZ-TV (PBS) and on KCBD (NBC). Those outside the Lubbock viewing area can tune in via livestream on Texas Tech’s You Tube channel and via TexasTech+.

Texas Tech Choirs

heritage will be on display The Texas Tech Univer- when the Mariachi Los Matsity combined choirs and the adores take center stage for a trombone choir will perform special performance. their traditional carols and Welcome a new century audience favorites. When the more than The university choirs help 25,000 Christmas lights are make this event special year illuminated, Texas Tech will after year. symbolically usher in its secSpecial performances by ond century of service and officially close the year-long Annie Chalex Boyle Annie Chalex Boyle, as- Centennial celebration. To help celebrate the new sociate professor of violin at Texas Tech and Con- century, the night sky over certmaster for the Lubbock campus will be illuminated Symphony Orchestra, will with a fireworks display and additions to last year’s cerdrone show. emony is back. perform “Oh Holy Night.”

Mariachi Los Matadores Texas Tech’s Hispanic

Fireworks

Drone show

One of the most popular

More than 400 drones will

light up the night sky. This will be the first drone show held on campus and in the city of Lubbock – ever.

Featured entertainment Lost Wax

The band will provide hits spanning six decades of pop, rock, hip hop, and R&B as the headliner for this year’s extravaganza. Lost Wax was most recently featured as the house band at the 2023 NFL Draft in Kansas City.

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Cirque Entertainment Attendees at this year’s ceremony will get to experience the dazzling aerial artistry that has made Cirque performances some of the most sought after in the world.

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Page 6 • December 2023 • Golden Gazette

Should you convert your traditional IRA to a Roth? Smart move?

Convert? Some scenarios point to But in these scenarios, you Yes, others say No. Below are a few situations in might want to think twice about If a Roth IRA conversion means making a Roth IRA conversion, tax-free withdrawals in retirement which a Roth IRA conversion is at least for now: and a more substantial inheritance worth considering: • You’re nearing retirement and for your heirs later on, it sounds like • Your tax bracket is expected to you plan to use your traditional be higher in retirement, or your a no-brainer. IRA to pay for living expenses. income fluctuates and it’s lower But converting a traditional IRA The advantage of the Roth IRA this year than it usually is. It’s to a Roth doesn’t make sense for is that qualified distributions are wise to do a Roth IRA convereveryone. tax free. If you need IRA funds sion in a year that your income is Roth IRAs are funded with aftersoon, you can’t give those funds lowest, to minimize income taxes. tax dollars, and provided that several a chance to grow and compound The amount you’re converting criteria are met, qualified withdrawand you haven’t maximized the will be added to your gross inals are tax free. growth potential. come for the year and could push If you’re converting funds from a • You’re currently receiving or you into a higher tax bracket. traditional IRA to a Roth IRA, you’ll are two years away from receivhave to pay taxes on that income • You live in a state with no ining Medicare benefits. A Roth come tax but will retire to a upfront. But it may be worthwhile to conversion would increase your state with income tax. By doing have access to tax-free money during taxable income and could impact the conversion in your current retirement. how much you pay for Medicare state, you’ll avoid the state inPart B and D premiums. come tax on withdrawals of the • You don’t have cash on hand to Don’t complicate life: converted funds. pay for the conversion taxes. If • You have most of your assets you don’t have the cash but want Missing somebody? – call in tax-deferred accounts. Once to go through with the conversion you make the conversion to a Wanna meet up? – invite anyway by selling assets to pay Roth IRA, you’ll have access the taxes, look at assets without to tax-free money in retirement. Wanna be understood? – taxable gains or those that have a Diversifying your accounts by tax explain higher cost basis. Best practice is treatment will allow you to better to use funds outside of an IRA to Have questions? – ask manage your tax bracket and help pay for the conversion. optimize tax planning in retire• You plan to give a substantial Don’t like something? – fix it ment. amount of your IRA to charity. • You don’t need the money from Like something? – state it A Qualified Charitable Distributhe IRA in your lifetime and tion from a traditional IRA to a want to maximize the estate you Want something? – work for it eligible charity is a non-taxable leave to your heirs. Your heirs distribution for the IRA owner. It’s Love someone? – tell them can eventually access the Roth a way to fulfill charitable wishes Keep your life simple! IRA without tax implications, as while minimizing taxes. A QCD long as they follow the guidelines from a Roth IRA will also fulfill set forth by the IRS. charitable goals, but you are also My ducks are absolutely not • Your taxable income will stay the unnecessarily paying a tax bill in a row. I don’t even know same but you expect tax rates to beforehand.. go up in the future. If you think where some of them are. • If you receive a discount or tax tax rates will go up in the future, credit for your health insurance And I’m pretty sure one of it might be better to pay the tax through the Health Exchange, a them is a pigeon. liability now when rates are lower.

Roth conversion might eliminate the discount you are eligible to receive for your health insurance. With so many factors to consider, it’s a smart move to have a chat with your advisor before deciding whether to do a Roth IRA conversion. Converting a traditional IRA to a Roth doesn’t always make sense, but it can be a powerful move for some in preparation of retirement.

Next steps

If you’re thinking about converting a traditional IRA to a Roth: • Think about when and how you plan to use the IRA funds. • Speak to your advisor about your specific situation before initiating a conversion. If you decide to convert from a traditional to a Roth IRA, there won’t be tax on any distributions, however there could be a 10% penalty unless each conversion has a five-year holding period or you meet a 10% penalty exception. E Converting a traditional IRA into a Roth IRA has tax implications. Investors should consult a tax advisor before deciding to do a conversion. Sources: wellsfargo.com; schwab. com; investor.vanguard.com; investopedia.com; kiplinger.com; fool. com

Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/ SIPC. Investment Advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Holtzman Wealth Strategies is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. The information contained herein has been prepared solely for informational purposes and is not intended as tax advice. Raymond James and its advisors do not offer tax or legal advice. You should discuss any tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional.

Zach Holtzman, Financial Advisor 4412 74th Street, #D-100, 806-701-4083 zach.holtzman@raymondjames.com

Golden Gazette • December 2023 • Page 7

Jim Croce & ‘Time in a Bottle’ Alzheimer’s Support Group, Dec. 20

One night, Ingrid Croce sat her husband down at the kitchen table on their Pennsylvania farm. For five years, the two had tried in vain to have a child. That night, though, Ingrid had good news: They were about to become parents. Jim Croce was so overcome with emotion that he composed “Time in a Bottle” on the table that night, telling how he wished that that fleeting moment of euphoria could last forever:

Golden Oldies If I could save time in a bottle The first thing that I’d like to do Is to save every day till eternity passes away Just to spend them with you Of course, as we all know, life doesn’t work that way and we are given only a certain number of days together: But there never seems to be enough time To do the things you want to do once you find them I’ve looked around enough to know That you’re the one I want to go through time with Their blessed event was a boy. The happy couple named him Adrian. Jim Croce was a struggling singer/songwriter who first performed with his wife. In 1966, the two recorded an album—“Facets”—and released it on their own Croce Records label. The disc went nowhere. Three years later, they signed with Capitol Records, but their “Jim and Ingrid Croce” LP met the same fate, and Capitol dropped them. Jim decided to try his luck as a solo artist, in the meantime driving trucks, working construction and teaching middle school to make ends meet while waiting to make music his full-time occupation.

An Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group will meet “Time in a Bottle” ended up on Croce’s first on the third Wednesday of each month from10 to 11 a.m. successful album, “You Don’t Mess Around at the Alzheimer’s Association Lubbock office, 4601 with Jim.” The title track on ABC Records 50th St. Ste. 216. had been a rollicking Top Ten novelty hit, but The upcoming meeting will be Dec. 20. “Time in a Bottle” ended up being buried on The support group is sponsored by the Alzheimer’s the second side of the LP. Nobody at ABC Association West Texas. The meetings will be led by a Records ever thought of it becoming a 45 trained facilitator who has worked with support groups someday. for 10 years. Fast-forward a couple of years, and Jim The support group will be a safe place for Alzheimer’s Croce had become a musical superstar. In care partners to develop a support system, and exchange September 1973, he and his small practical information on challenges and possible solubackup band were headlining tions. shows at various college campuses The group will also talk through issues and ways of in the south. All were scheduled to coping, and share feelings, needs and concerns. fly from a venue in Louisiana to Attendees will also learn about community resources another in Texas, but their small available. chartered plane struck a tree on Visit www.alz.org/westtexas to learn more or alzcontakeoff from a regional airport, and nected.org. everyone on board perished. Adrian Croce had turned 2 years old just You glow differently when you have good eight days earlier. people with good intentions in your life. Coincidentally, one week before the crash, ABC-TV had aired a now-forgotten Movie of the Week. It was called “She Lives!” and starred Desi Arnaz, Jr., in a story of a young woman stricken with cancer. The film’s producers had come across “Time in a Bottle” from Croce’s first hit album and had secured permission to add it to the movie’s soundtrack. The following day, radio stations were bombarded with callers asking to hear the heartbreaking tune again. ABC Records quickly isEmail Bertha Gonzalez sued “Time in a Bottle,” at alanrowjob@gmail.com which raced to the peak of the Billboard chart and or call 806-797-9550 became Jim’s signature single.

ALAN D. ROW MD, EYE PHYSICIAN PART-TIME OFFICE JOB

Page 8 • December 2023 • Golden Gazette

‘Tis the Season’ for celebrating seasonal produce available Dear Folks, Celebrate the season. Every year I like to bring you up-todate on what produce is in abundant supply and what varieties have a short season. I’m referring speciﬁcally to red yams and cranberries. Once you’ve tried the red yams, sweet potatoes will be totally passe’. The stores here in Lubbock began to get those wonderful yams a few years ago. They were not available locally when we moved here more than 30 years ago. My kids in Arizona used to ship them to me every year. That is how delicious they are. My contact with the manager on duty in the produce department at Market Street was helpful on my last visit. He also told me that they were only shipped the small 1 lb. bag of cranberries this year. Last year they also had the 2 lb. bag. I never cook cranberries. I always make a fresh cranberry relish. It’s so yummy, and it freezes well. I just got a container out a few days ago (from last year’s batch), and it was so delicious. I’m sure there are many recipes online for this cranberry treat, so stock up and freeze before they disappear from the shelves. Also in season now are apples, pears, navel oranges, Texas grapefruit, and several kinds of apple cider. The prices on produce have specials from week to week, so check the weekly grocery papers that arrive in our mail boxes,

usually on Tuesdays. The Honey Crisp apples were on sale the day I was shopping. The Honey Crisp and Granny Smith don’t turn mushy when prepared in your favorite recipes. The Halos are so sweet now and come in 2 or 5 pound bags. I saw several 1-pound containers of strawberries from California. Anyone guess as to how sweet they are this late in the year. At least they were not imported The kind manager took the time to give me all the seasonal info. He also named all the pear varieties known to mankind; everything was stacked beautifully for your choice. Their pear selection is huge, and if this fruit is your preference, you won’t be disappointed. Another item I noticed for the first time was the yellow heirloom tomatoes. He said the heirlooms are offered all year long, but the yellow ones just came in. This is the best time of year for acorn and butternut squash. They are plentiful now so don’t miss out. When growing up, Mom used to bake the acorn variety all the time when in season. She simply cut the squash vertically, scooped out all the seeds, and filled the seed cavity with lots of butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon, then baked until done. Yummy! I always use Market Street on 50th and Indiana. It happens to be convenient for me. Everyone there is so kind and helpful. A blessed Christmas and New Year, Cathy

Golden Gazette • December 2023 • Page 9

In that doctor/patient relationship: make a list & ask questions A friend of mine recently told me that a new doctor he saw sat down and explained to him why he was taking some of the medications he was taking. What a concept!

Drugs & side effects When was the last time your doctor explained to you why you are taking a drug and how it will help you? It is nice to know why you are taking a product. Why do you need it? And how will it help you? And what about being interested enough in what is going on with your body that you do some research yourself. Most of us have become friends with Mr. Google. At least look up all the products you are taking and become familiar with what they do and why you would need it. Be sure to look up the side effects of taking any drug. The side effects are very important. So, keep up on what is happening. And if you feel like you can’t look it up, ask your son or daughter to look up the side effects for you. They are very important.

more of that food so maybe you can get more of what you need from the food you eat. Learning is a lifelong process that we should use to our advantage. Now learning is easier than ever!

Ask questions An important aspect of learning is asking questions. Do you ask your doctor questions? If you don’t, why not? I suggest people go into their appointment with questions written down because it is not easy to call and ask anymore. And how many times have I heard, “I meant to ask that, but I forgot it.” Make a list and take it with you.

Be your best advocate

world. Sometimes you don’t even have to go into the office. No listening to your heart beat, no temperature check, no blood pressure necessary. Be sure to get a copy of your blood work. Offices are over-worked and understaffed. I had a man come in who had new blood work. Oh my. Everything in his blood work was off the charts. He had not been to the doctor in 3 years. I had him get his blood work from three years ago. Every test on that lab was off the charts. However, the patient was never contacted.

If you are my age, you probably miss the good old days when you had a relationship with your doctor. The doctor knew you, and Get a copy you knew the doctor. Those Do not wait for them to days are history. We may contact you. Get a copy of long for them, but now you your bloodwork, even if they are your bloodwork. say it is fine! Unfortunately, we have become dependent It’s a new world My 95 year-old friend was on portals. Don’t leave the office blown away when she recently went for her physical. without saying, “I want a What about food? Her doctor of 30 plus years physical copy of my bloodPerhaps you want to be retired, and the new doctor work please.” Then you will more natural in your apdidn’t even touch her. She is have it in hand. proach. Look up what foods You never know when a breast cancer survivor, but have, let’s say, potassium in you will go to a different no breast exam. them. You might want to eat Welcome to the new doctor. And they will ask about your blood work. It A truly happy person is one who can helps a lot if you say, “Here enjoy the scenery on a detour.

is a copy of my last blood work.” WOW! That is thinking ahead of what they will want, and since you are your bloodwork, you might as take a copy with you. Obviously, I am being a bit sarcastic. You are not your blood work, but it is what most doctors are using these days to determine what you need. The physical exam is history. This day and age where most people have more than one doctor, get a copy of your blood work and take it with you to any doctor’s appointment.

If they don’t need it, OK. But there is nothing like being prepared. Our task is to change as the times change. It’s like fashion. For a while, short skirts are in style. Then the long skirt is more popular. When I was just out of college, the green appliances were popular. You don’t see any green appliances for sale today. Camels were advertised on television by doctors when I was a kid. You don’t see that now.

The times change Bottom line is, we change with the times. The most important change will be to learn as much as you can and do as much as you can for your own body, so you are not at the mercy of any system.

Page 10 • December 2023 • Golden Gazette

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Golden Gazette • December 2023 • Page 11 At the Cactus Theater

1812 Buddy Holly Ave. 806-762-3233 Dec. 1 - Bryan Martin - Goin’ For Broke Tour - Live Dec. 2American Aquarium - 2023 Tour - Live Dec. 3 - ADDED SHOW! An Aaron Watson Family Christmas - Live Dec. 6 - Cactus Classic Cinema: “Holiday Inn” (1942) - starring Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire - 2:20 p.m. Matinee Dec. 6 - Cactus Classic Cinema: “Holiday Inn” (1942) - starring Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire - 7:20 p.m. Dec. 7 - Live at the Cactus! Dec. 8 - Michael Martin Murphey’s Cowboy Christmas - Live Dec. 9 - David Gaschen - A Celebration of Christmas - 2 p.m. Matinee and 7:30 p.m. show - Live Dec. 15 - William Lee Martin - Revenge of the Nutcracker Comedy Show - Live Dec. 16 - Cactus Family Christmas - 1 Night Only! - Saturday, - Live Dec. 17 - Caldwell Kids Christmas at the Cactus - Show Dec. 18 - Caldwell Kids Christmas - Show Dec. 20 - Cactus Classic Cinema: “It’s A Wonderful Life” (1946) - James Stewart, Donna Reed - 2:20 pm Matinee Dec. 20 - Cactus Classic Cinema: “It’s A Wonderful Life” (1946)

Page 12 • December 2023 • Golden Gazette

Joe Arrington Cancer Center earns FACT accreditation The Covenant Health Joe Arrington Cancer Research & Treatment Center (JACC) has received internationally recognized accreditation by the Foundation for the Accreditation of Cellular Therapy (FACT) at the University of Nebraska Medical Center.

FACT is an internationally recognized accrediting body for hospitals and medical institutions offering stem cell transplant and indicates the accredited institution has met the most rigorous standards in every aspect of stem cell therapy. This covers the entire spectrum of

stem cell therapy, from clinical care to donor management, cell collection, processing, storage, transportation, administration, and cell release. “This accreditation ensures cellular therapy programs provide safe quality services in a dynamic evolving healthcare field,” said Shelly Biggs, executive director of Joe Arrington Cancer Research & Treatment Center. “This increases patient confidence in the care they are receiving and is a source of pride and accomplishment for providers and caregivers. At Covenant Health, we continue to dedicate our expertise to patients of West Texas and Eastern New Mexico with our cancer experts.” JACC is the only cancer institute in the region providing stem cell transplant therapy. Covenant’s Cellular Therapy Program performed its first hematopoietic (blood) stem cell The Texas Tech School of Architecture students helped design and transplant in 2007 and was awarded renovate the garden at Joe Arrington Cancer Center as their graduate initial FACT Accreditation in 2012. project.

Quality End of Life Care

The program has been awarded re-accreditation with all subsequent inspections with the most recent being received in October 2023. Stem cell transplants are performed at Covenant Medical Center. By demonstrating compliance with the FACT-JACIE International Standards for Cellular Therapy Product Collection, Processing and Administration, JACC has earned FACT Accreditation for adult autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplant. FACT-JACIE Standards are defined by leading experts based on the latest knowledge of the field of cellular therapy transplantation. JACC been found in compliance with these rigorous Standards as well as governmental regulations. Accreditation is attained through evaluation of submitted documentation and on-site inspection to determine if an organization is in compliance with current FACT standards and the United States Food and Drug Administration’s current rules for Good Tissue Practice. FACT Standards are defined by leading experts based on the latest knowledge of the field of cellular therapy.

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806-795-2751 or 800-658-2648 www.HospiceOfLubbock.org

Does anyone else put things in a safe place and then forget where that safe place is? I f yo u wa n t m o r e kindness in the world, put it there. Just sold my homing pigeon on Ebay for the 22nd time.

Golden Gazette • December 2023 • Page 13

‘Candy Cane Lane’ a fresh, surprising, & funny movie By Randal C. Hill Brian Grazer is, along with Ron Howard and Eddie Murphy, one of five producers of ‘Candy Cane Lane.’ Grazer can hardly contain his enthusiasm when he gushes, “I can’t wait for the world to see ‘Candy Cane Lane’! I’ve wanted to make a Christmas movie my whole life, but I wanted to do something fresh and surprising. Eddie Murphy in this hilarious cast really brings the ‘funny.’” “Candy Cane Lane” centers on Chris (portrayed by Eddie Murphy in his firstever Christmas release) as a man on a mission to win his neighborhood’s annual Christmas home-decoration contest. After he makes a deal with a rascally elf named Pepper to improve his chances of winning, Pepper

casts a spell that brings the 12 days of Christmas to life but, in the process, wreaks havoc on the town. At the risk of ruining the holidays, Chris, Carol and their three children race against the clock to break Pepper’s spell, battle devious characters, try to control mayhem and, finally, salvage Christmas for everyone. In addition to featuring Murphy in his latest star turn, the film also features Tracee Ellis Ross (Diana Ross’s daughter) as Eddie’s wife Carol, and Jillian Bell as Pepper. The screenplay was written by Californian Kelly Younger (“Frozen II,” the Muppets movies), an English professor who moonlights in the world of celluloid magic and was inspired by his childhood experiences in

El Segundo, a working-class beach suburb just below the Los Angeles airport. According to Younger, for three weeks each December, Acacia Street, a cul-de-sac of traditional tract houses, magically morphs into Candy Cane Lane when residents there put out lights and decorations for strolling spectators to enjoy. The always-anticipated tradition among those 26 households along the street has been played out there since 1949.

Eddie Murphy grew up enamored of the edgy humor of Richard Pryor. After becoming a local celebrity as a spot-on impersonator of numerous iconic celebrities, Murphy found success practically overnight when he began making appearances on “Saturday Night Live.” There he revitalized the show’s flagging ratings with his rollicking sendups of Gumby, the Little Rascals’ Buckwheat, and Mr. Rogers. Murphy’s film works have

included numerous boxoffice winners, including the four beloved Shrek releases, where he voiced the character of Donkey. Jennifer Salke, the head of Amazon Studios, said, “Eddie is someone who brings global audiences together, and we can’t wait to make that happen again.” The holiday fun-fest will be released on Dec. 1 and available on Prime Video in more than 240 countries and territories around the globe.

Page 14 • December 2023 • Golden Gazette

10 ways to make special holiday traditions senior-friendly

Every year families often look forward to special holiday traditions. Perhaps it’s Grandma’s turkey dinner or the bread pudding with rum sauce. But the past couple of years, you’ve noticed that Grandma is losing her stamina for preparing large family meals. And you and other family caregivers could be facing health issues, job stresses, and other challenges as well. Gradual changes are a trend that many families know all too well. But these stages of aging don’t need to steal the joy from your holiday gatherings. It might be time to adapt traditions so the entire family can continue to enjoy the festivities. This holiday season, try incorporating these suggestions from the Home

Instead Center for Successful Aging.

1. Reconsider the menu Holiday cooking can be tiring and stressful. If the family is set on a traditional meal, make it a group effort. For example, you and Mom could supervise, and others in the family can learn the secrets to making those favorite family recipes.

2. Mix it up Let’s face it, the later the time of day, the more everyone – from young children to aging adults – starts to fade. Why not plan a holiday brunch rather than a dinner, or attend a daytime religious service instead of the evening one?

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3. Think simple

as online shopping and sendYou may love seeing the ing e-cards. family home all decked out 5. Compensate for the season but hauling when necessary boxes of decorations may If hearing impairment become impossible for an keeps anyone in the famaging adult. ily from enjoying the annual Get together with family holiday movie, check out the and friends and decide which latest sound enhancement holiday decorating traditions technology. to keep and what to forego If a parent or grandparent and then assign tasks accord- is having trouble seeing the ingly. deck of playing cards, look

4. Lend a hand

for large print cards or activities that can help keep her in the game.

When arthritis prevents family members from writing cards or macular degen- 6. Hit the road eration damages eyesight and You no doubt remember makes it difficult to shop for it as a child – those holiday gifts, recruit someone in the light tours that you and your family to take on those tasks. parents loved. If time is short, suggest (See Special holiday traditions, more efficient options such Page 19)

Golden Gazette • December 2023 • Page 15

REPAIR A misfit: She read. She painted. She thought. EYEGLASS & REPLACEMENT

Just weeks before her untimely death in 1970, singer Janis Joplin made one ﬁnal journey back to her native Port Arthur, Texas, this time for her 10-year reunion at Jefferson Davis High School. The 27-year-old superstar had ﬂed small-town life as a social outcast but was returning as a counterculture icon.

Weeks before the reunion, she had appeared on The Dick Cavett Show, where she claimed she had been “laughed out of class, out of town, and out of the state.” Moving to San Francisco, her career had skyrocketed after she began fronting the all-male band Big Brother and the Holding Company, her mezzo-soprano voice blasting out such bluesbased classics as “Ball and Chain” and “Piece of My Heart.” In high school, Janis had been a whip-smart student— she belonged to the Future Teachers Club and graduated from Jeﬀerson David a year early—but was never accepted by the peers who had always called the social shots.

Often seen as a reclusive eccentric on campus, she once said,” I was a misﬁt. I read. I painted. I thought.” Joplin hung out with other teenagers on the school’s social periphery. One particular pal was a collector of record albums by such blues artists as Bessie Smith, Billie Holiday and Big Mama Thornton. (In 1953, Thornton had cut

the original “Hound Dog.”) At 17, while showering at home one night, something happened that changed Janis’s life: “I discovered I had this incredibly loud voice!” Later, she said, “I started singing blues because that was always what I liked.” The head of the 1970 reunion committee who had mailed the get-together announcement had insisted to newspaper journalists, “This is NOT a reception for Janis Joplin.” Janis, though, made a regal entrance that night, surrounded by bodyguards, reporters and paparazzi. Many of her former classmates were no doubt shocked to see that the girl they had once teased mercilessly hadn’t just overcome their tormenting, she had be-

come everything they would never be. Joplin had admitted that she was attending to see “all those kids who are still working in gas stations and driving dry-cleaning trucks while I’m making $50,000 a night.” Janis had arrived with purple and pink feathers crowning her head, oversized rose-tinted glasses framing her acne-scarred face, and bracelets jangling on both wrists. She was welcomed by some, but she also felt the chill of those who stood apart, much as they had before, and made comments about her. One of them asked her “what she had been up to” for the past decade? At evening’s end, Joplin was given a car tire, a gag gift oﬀered to the attendee who had traveled the furthest distance that day. Two months later, Janis Joplin died from a heroin overdose, alone in a Los Angeles motel on a Saturday night. Four months later, she had the Number One single in America, the

Kris Kristofferson-composed “Me and Bobby McGee.” In Port Arthur, some felt proud to have known her. Others probably couldn’t have cared less.

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Page 16 • December 2023 • Golden Gazette TEXAS TECH HEALTH SCIENCES CENTER Garrison Institute on Aging The Garrison Institute on Aging was established in 1999 and named in honor of Mildred and Shirley Garrison in 2005. Our mission is to promote healthy aging thru research, promote educational and community outreach programs, and serve the community with services and contacts. If you have questions on health issues, aging, chronic disease and mental health, please reach out to us. We can assist in connecting you with the right contact for your concerns.

December is going to be a busy month. • Texas Tech University will close out the Centennial Celebration with the 65th Annual Carol of Lights on Dec. 2 at Memorial Circle and the Science Quad beginning at 6:30 pm. • Dec. 3rd, Paint & Sippy (Kids Edition) will be held at the Patterson Branch Library. Participants will have pre-drawn canvases to select from. This kid event will have snacks and activities. Tickets are $10. and seating is limited. RSVP at 903-3162735 or RealDealDesigns@

I’m ready for the rest of this month! I have my umbrella, my flip flops, my mittens,

graphic-designer.com. • The Nutcracker with Ballet will be presented at the Buddy Holly Hall on December 1,2,3, and 8. Go on-line for tickets. • Candlelight at the Ranch will be Dec. 8 and 9 from 6:30-9 p.m. at the National Ranching Heritage Center. The event is free, and donations are accepted. The lighted pathways are wheelchair and stroller accessible. Cowboys can be found camped out along the path. It’s truly a great family event. This is just a brief sample

of events. Find one or some that fit your family and visitors. Other dates that are important to remember are Dec. 7 National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day and the beginning of Hanukkah, Dec. 21 is the Winter Solstice, first day of winter in the Northern Hemisphere and first day of summer in the Southern Hemisphere. Check with local businesses to see what days they are closed during the holidays.

Geminid Meteor Shower

Dec. 13 will be the peak night to view (Geminid Meteor Shower 2023) a huge meteor shower. You can expect to see an average of 75 meteors per hour as early as 9 p.m., and it peaks at 2 a.m.

Planning for the end of life

The Care Partner Academy will meet on Dec. 12 at 6630 S. Quaker at noon. Donnie Fortenberry from Sanders Funeral Home will present “Planning for the End of Life.” It is never too soon to plan for the inevitable. The event is free and open to the public. You can view on ZOOM as well (see ad for details). Call 806-7431217 for details.

Mental health / respite care

We are continuing to host mental health sessions for caregivers as well as offering a free respite care program with the guidance of Dr. Jonathan Singer, TTU Department of Psychological Sciences. Dr. Singer has also opened

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up ‘tele-health’ sessions for those living in rural areas. If you are an informal (unpaid) caregiver of someone with Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, or other related dementia diseases, there are programs that can benefit you at no cost. Participation in his study can assist in providing future services for you and those you care for. Caregivers are encouraged to contact Dr. Singer for additional information. You can contact him at 806-834-5884 or email at jonsinge@ttu.edu.

December Jokes… Why does Scrooge love Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer? • Because every buck is dear to him. Why did Rudolph have to attend summer school? • Because he went down in history. What did Adam say on the day before Christmas? • It’s Christmas, Eve. What is it called when a snowman has a temper tantrum? • A melt-down. And remember on Dec. 31, 2023…you will write 123123! Take care of each other and hope to see you in January. Every time we love, every time we give, it’s Christmas! ~ Dale Evans

Golden Gazette • December 2023 • Page 17

Lubbock Music NOW album spotlights 17 local artists This latest collection continues the tradition of highlighting the diverse array of local talent, capturing the soundtrack of the city. With the project’s inception in 2016, the upcoming release marks the eighth contribution to this celebrated series. “We so often celebrate the great artists who got their start in Lubbock and left. I think we should also recognize the wonderful talent in Lubbock right now that helps make our city so special,” said James Eppler, Civic Lubbock Inc. board member and chair of the Lubbock Entertainment Committee, which oversees the project. The 2024 Lubbock Music NOW album showcases original music from local artists and songwriters Map folds out to 34.5” x 22.5” within a 100-mile radius of Lubbock who have performed at Buy a Ruidoso least two paid gigs in Map & have the city. it mailed to you. Songwriters can www.RuidosoMap.com participate by collaboor mail a check for $3.25 to: rating with performers Word Publications to record their compond # 2022 82 St. 101 sitions. Submissions were Lubbock, TX 79423 received by the EnInclude an address tertainment Lubbock to mail the map to. Committee, which op-

The Entertainment Lubbock Committee announced the roster of tracks and artists to be featured on the 2024 Lubbock Music NOW album.

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erates under the auspices of Civic Lubbock, Inc. The album’s final track list was chosen by a panel of past and present members from the Texas Branch of The Recording Academy, known as the Texas Grammy Board. To ensure a fair and unbiased review, the judges considered submissions identified solely by song numbers, with no revelation of artist names or song titles. Sixteen songs were selected by the judges for the 2024 album. The late Doug Smith, pianist and composer, was selected by the Entertainment Lubbock Committee to be the second artist honored posthumously on a Lubbock Music NOW album. Smith died in 2016. “We are especially pleased

to honor Doug with his inclusion on this year’s album. His work embodies the spirit and passion of our local talent, and it’s fitting that we celebrate his contributions in such a significant way,” said Don Caldwell, nationally known music producer and performer and member of the Entertainment Lubbock committee. “By featuring him post-

humously, we not only remember a life profoundly dedicated to the arts, but we also reinforce the powerful connection between Lubbock’s musical past and its present,” he said. The songs selected for the 2024 Lubbock Music NOW album, listed alphabetically by song title and including (See Lubbock Music NOW, Page 18)

Page 18 • December 2023 • Golden Gazette

Lubbock Music NOW Need a doc? www.LubbockMedGuide.com Lubbock & area physicians - by specialty & alphabetically (Continued from Page 17)

the performers and songwriters (in parenthesis), are: “Better Man” – Jason Nutt & Highway 70 (Jason Nutt) “Billy, Buddy and Willie” – Ron Riley (Ron Riley) “Bonnie and Clyde” – Chasing Ivy (Lindsay Boreing/Jay Denton) “Guarding the Old Ways” – Wade Parks (Wade Parks) “Kuti Kish” – Mouse Shadow (Colt Compton) “OMM” – Chris Bone Garza, Lil Bro, Baby J (Chris Bone Garza/Bryan Williams) “Patient Trust” – Jonny Keys (Jonny Hughes) “Procession” – Jordan McEwen (Jordan McEwen) “Save Your Drama For Your Momma” – Hannah Jackson (Hannah Jackson/Cary C. Banks) “Someone Who Believes” – Morri Hartgraves Quintet (Morri Hartgraves) “The Hell Of It” – Chad Miller & The Good Fortune (Chad Miller) “The Idea of You” – Mary Fletcher (Mary Fletcher/Chase Coy) “Twenty Nine” – Spur 327 Band (Tyge Payne) “West Texas” – Doug Smith (Doug Smith) -Memorial Track “Wishes” – Alicia Morgan (Alicia Morgan) “Without Your Love” – Russ Murphy (Russ Murphy) “Yo, Play Your Piano” – Richard Bowles (Richard Bowles)

Winning entries receive a one-time cash prize of $200 and copies of the album. In addition, the artists will have the option to perform their winning song on the Lubbock Music NOW TV Show. The cover art for the 2024 Lubbock Music NOW CD is designed by Dirk Fowler. Fowler, an associate professor in the School of Art at Texas Tech University, was recently inducted into the Lubbock Walk of Fame. He is a worldrenowned graphic designer and his letterpress concert posters are collector’s items. The release of the album is planned for early February 2024. When I look in the mirror and see gray hair & wrinkles, I think, “They sure don’t make mirrors like they used to.” My wife said I never listened to her, or something like that. I checked into the Hokey Pokey Clinic & I turned myself around. Not only did I fall of the diet wagon, I drug it into the woods, set it on fire, and used the insurance money to buy cupcakes.

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ACROSS 1. Nae 4. Foot-operated lever 9. Foot of an animal 12. Organ of hearing 13. Muse of lyric poetry 14. Single unit 15. Endless 17. Freely 19. Helps 20. Sewing case 21. South American Indian 23. Sensation 27. Roman general 29. Indigo 30. Perform 31. Part of the verb to be 32. Sweetheart 34. The Lion 35. Similar to 36. Clothing 37. Gaze exultingly 39. Variety of celery 42. Indolently 43. Donations to the poor 44. Suspended 46. Verily 48. Barmaid 51. Unit of energy 52. Water wheel 54. Not 55. Very skilled person 56. Knot 57. Oxlike African Antelope Solution on P. 21

DOWN 1. Born (Fr.) 2. Cereal grass 3. Something heavily sweet 4. Remain undecided 5. Expunge 6. Indian dish 7. Near to 8. Abhorrence 9. Ancient Greek city-state 10. Black bird 11. Spun by spiders 16. Monetary unit of Iran 18. Contest between two persons 20. Sicilian volcano 21. Son of Abraham

22. Suckle 24. Brazilian ballroom dance 25. Standard of perfection 26. Covered with soot 28. Frightening 33. Greek goddess of strife 34. Accommodation in a house 36. Castrate 38. Freshwater codfish 40. Immense 41. Seat 45. Mountain range 46. Seed of a legume 47. Portion of a circle 48. Brassiere 49. Hurried 50. Monetary unit of Romania 53. Not off

Holiday traditions (Continued from Page 14)

A holiday driving tour is an easy way to bring back the memories and joy to an older adult who can no longer decorate or prefers not to drive.

Golden Gazette • December 2023 • Page 19

Life lessons on longevity & selecting well

Did you know that where we live is one of the most significant determinants of overall health outcomes and life expectancy? 7. Go virtual Studies have proven that the Distance can separate older adults from zip code is a better predictor of loved ones, which exacerbates loneliness, overall well being than the geisolation and depression during the holidays. netic code. Use the latest technology, such as FaceThe many reasons for this Time and Zoom, to help an stay connected to include access to healthy foods, loved ones from afar. great healthcare, safe environments, quality education, lots of 8. Relive memorable moments greenspace, and a community of Older adults living with Alzheimer’s support and encouragement. disease and other dementias will especially Aging expert Dan Buettner appreciate opportunities to tap into old memospent more than seven years ries. studying the world’s “Blue Listen to favorite carols and ask your loved Zones,” areas where people live one to share the most vivid memories, like past the age of 100 in rates notaking a horse-drawn sleigh ride or hunting tably higher than surrounding game for the holiday meal. communities. 9. Make new memories His research, now widely Sometimes, things must change. If an older referenced by global industry adult or other family members can’t partici- experts, led to a best-selling book pate in the holiday or someone has been hos- and now a new series on Netflix, pitalized, why not find other ways to capture teaching audiences life lessons on memories of the season? longevity. Arrange to have a group sing carols to the As part of his Blue Zones ill family member – traditional songs from his research, Buettner revealed the or her generation. “Power 9” lifestyle habits that are key to the world’s healthiest, 10. Get help longest-lived people. One of the best ways to adapt holiday activities is to ask for help. 1. Move naturally Enlisting the help of a care professional  Be active without thinkto help with meal preparation or to provide ing about it. Identify activities transportation for your loved one can lighten you enjoy and make them a part the load for families and free them up to max- of your day. Simple things like imize special holiday time with loved ones. walking every day go a long way for your health. https://www.homeinstead.com/careresources/wellness-lifestyle/10-olderadult-friendly-holiday-tips/?utm_ medium=email&utm_campaign=US_ Insights_November+2023&utm_ term=Resource+2+Button&utm_ id=40261374&utm_sfmc_ id=%%subscriberkey%%

Okinawan reminder to stop eating once their stomachs are 80 percent full. Serve yourself, put the food away, then eat.

sizing to a smaller home to promote togetherness.  Establish family rituals (game night, family walks, Sunday dinners).  Show it off: create a place for family pictures and souvenirs that shows how you’re all connected.

3. Embrace a plantbased diet  No, you don’t need to become a vegetarian, but do bump up your intake of fruits and veg- 9. Pick the right comgies. munity —the people surrounding you 4. Drink red wine influence your health (in moderation) more than almost  Keep the daily intake to two any other factor servings or less  Be surrounded by those who share Blue Zone values. 5. Plan de vida: deter Identify your inner circle. mine life's purpose Reconsider ties to people who  Write your own personal mission statement and find your bring you down. reason for getting up in the mornThe good news is that the bening. efits of living in a community that benefits your health are always at 6. Down shift — take your fingertips. time to relieve It is never too late to make a stress; relaxation is move, and more importantly, you key  Don’t rush – plan on being don’t have to do it alone. There are more than 280 Caring 15 minutes early Transitions locations nationwide,  Cut out the noise – limit time spent with the television, com- with experts standing by to help you navigate your next move. puter, or radio on. They’ll create an individualized 7. Participate in a plan to fit your specific needs, to spiritual community help make your next life transi Deepen your existing spiri- tion as smooth and stress-free as tual commitment possible.  Seek out a new spiritual or Caring Transitions covers it all, religious tradition from home clean-outs, downsizing, estate sales and the physical 8. Put loved ones first relocation of your belongings, so and make family a no matter your age, you can move 2. Cut calories by 20% priority to the community of your dreams.  Use smaller plates, bowls,  Get closer: consider downand glasses https://www.caringtransitionssouthplains.com/blog/2023/10/27/blue Practice “Hara hachi bi,” the zones-how-your-location-determines-your-longevity

Page 20 • December 2023 • Golden Gazette

The Sweeping Story of Texas’ Staked Plains

‘Heaven’s Harsh Tableland: A New History of the Llano Estacado’

The Llano Estacado— dubbed by author Paul H. Carlson as “heaven’s harsh tableland”—covers some 48,000 square miles of western Texas and eastern New Mexico.

Paul H. Carlson

In this new survey of the region, the story begins during prehistoric times and follows with Apaches, Comanches, and other Native American tribal groups. Others have also left their

marks on the area: Spanish explorers, Comancheros, European settlers, farmers and ranchers, artists, and even athletes. Carlson, a veteran historian, aims to review the Llano’s historic contours from its earliest foundations to its energetic present. He skillfully narrates the story of the region up to the present time of modern agribusiness and urbanization. Throughout the 10 chronologically arranged chapters, concise sidebars support the narrative, highlighting important and interesting topics such as the enigmatic origins of the region’s name, fascinating geological and paleontological facts, the arrival of humans, the natural history of bison, colorful “characters” in the history of the region,

and many others. The resulting broad synthesis captures the entirety of the Llano Estacado, summarizing and interpreting its natural and human history in a single, carefully researched and clearly written volume. “Heaven’s Harsh Tableland: A New History of the Llano Estacado” will provide a helpful, enjoyable, and authoritative guide to the history and development of this large, important region. Paul H. Carlson, emeritus professor of history at Texas Tech University and a member of the Texas Institute of Letters and the Philosophical Society of Texas, is a Fellow of the Texas State Historical Association and the West Texas Historical Association. He is the author or co-author of more than 20 books, including “The Plains Indians” and “The Buffalo Soldier Tragedy of 1877.” He lives in Ransom Canyon, cut deep into the Llano’s eastern edge.

. . . destined to become an award-winning study for the Texas A&M Press because of its broad appeal to scholars and general readers alike. . . . the wonderful narrative opens in deep geological time and terminates in 2022. Carlson portrays the geographical and cultural place, called by early adventurers El Llano Estacado, as only the best living scholar of the region can. —Monte L. Monroe Texas State Historian Texas Tech University Southwest Collection

“Heaven’s Harsh Tableland: A New History of the Llano Estacado” By Paul H. Carlson 408 pp. 71 b&w photos.14 maps Texas A&M University Press. $42 Orders: 1-800-826-8911, www.tamupress.com

Golden Gazette • December 2023 • Page 21

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Page 22 • December 2023 • Golden Gazette

How to calm anxiety Anxiety is a common illness among older adults, affecting as many as 10-20 percent of the older population, according to the Geriatric Mental Health Foundation. Older adults are likely to be affected by anxiety for a number of reasons, including different medical conditions, medication interactions or any circumstances that worsen the ability to think, such as dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. For most people feeling anxious will pass quickly when they no longer sense any danger. However, a person with anxiety can find it difficult to stop thinking and feeling that something bad is about to happen. For caregivers helping to manage an aging loved one’s anxiety, it can be stressful to find ways to calm them. Having an array of tools to pull from can be helpful. We’ve compiled some tips from professional and family caregivers.

1. Listen to music

ing tool. One study compared secular and spiritual forms of meditation and found that the group that practiced spiritual meditation showed greater decreases in anxiety and stress and a more positive mood.

3. Exercise

Scientists have found about five minutes of aerobic exercise can begin to stimulate anti-anxiety effects. So, whether it’s taking a walk, dancing to music or simply stretching, physical activity is an effective tool to calm anxiety.

bowl of chicken noodle soup can bring.

7. Spend time with a pet

Pets can lower blood pressure and heart rate, reduce the stress hormone corti4. Walk outside sol and increase the body’s natural When an older adult is feeling mood booster, serotonin, in their anxious, get outside to breathe in the owners. Even if it is not with their fresh air. One study in the journal own pet, studies have shown the Health & Place, showed that older therapeutic effects for older adults adults who spent time in blue and who interact with animals. green outdoor areas, such as grassy parks or on the edge of koi ponds, 8. Go for a drive Whether it’s the change of scenery enjoyed increased feelings of renewal, restoration and spiritual con- or the lull of the engine, caregivers find that going for a drive can have nectedness. Even relatively mundane experi- calming effects on older adults who ences, hearing a bee buzzing or the feel anxious. sound of water, had a tremendous 9. Offer a security object Oftentimes, caregivers find that a impact on overall health. special object can calm anxiety. 5. Share something familiar One caregiver says that for her Caregivers find that sharing beloved books or movies from the past mother, that special object is a baby doll that she can hold and reminds can help to calm anxiety. Many find reading favorite chil- her of the grandchildren that she used dren’s books or reciting nursery to care for. For another, that special object is a rhymes especially helpful. warm blanket.

Music is a powerful tool for mood regulation and stress. Studies have shown that listening to classical music can improve sleep quality and decrease depression. Many caregivers find that, if it’s meaningful to them, playing familiar spiritual music can have a calming effect on their aging loved ones. For another caregiver, her aging loved one calms to the sound 6. Share a treat or favorite food of bagpipes, a familiar sound from One caregiver said “ice cream childhood. works like a charm” when her aging loved one is feeling anxious. 2. Pray Another says that chocolate pudCaregivers who support aging loved ones who value faith find that ding is a must-have in times of stress. Don’t forget the comfort a warm praying together is a powerful calm-

times—whether looking through saved greeting cards, letters or older photo albums—can have a calming effect on older adults. Talking about positive childhood memories can be helpful, too.

11. Promote physical contact Human touch is a powerful thing. Remember that a hug, a hand massage or brushing your loved one’s hair can go a long way.

12. Have a conversation

The type of conversation can vary and will depend on the level of anxiety in place. It could be a fun chit chat or a few jokes to help crack a smile. Or, it could be a more direct discussion recounting facts, providing information. Regardless of the conversation, the goal is to make the older adult feel safe, loved and reassured that he 10. Share memories Recalling memories of happy or she doesn’t need to worry. https://www.homeinstead.com/care-resources/health-conditions/ How-to-calm-older-adult-anxiety/?utm_medium=email&utm_ campaign=US_Insights_October+2023+-+20230929_144833&utm_ term=Resource+3+Button&utm_id=40188395&utm_sfmc_ id=%%subscriberkey%%

Golden Gazette • December 2023 • Page 23

Southwestern Sweet Potato Hash Skillet Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground turkey breakfast sausage • 1½ cups sweet potatoes, cubed (~1 large sweet potato) • 1 small red bell pepper, diced • 1 small yellow bell pepper, diced • ½ red onion, diced • 1 jalapeno, seeds removed and finely diced • 4 eggs • ½ cup shredded reduced-fat Mexican blend cheese • 1 Tablespoon olive oil • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika • 1 teaspoon garlic powder • 1 teaspoon cumin • 1 teaspoon salt • ½ teaspoon black pepper • Toppings (optional): cilantro, diced green onions, avocado chunks, juice from lime wedges, etc.

Candlelight at the Ranch, Dec. 8,9

Experience and celebrate a frontier Christmas on Dec. 8 and 9 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. when the National Ranching Heritage Center, 3121 4th St. celebrates its 45th Annual Candlelight at the Ranch. Instructions The event is free with a suggested donation of $5. 1. Preheat oven to 400 Holiday scenes will be recreated in 15 historic structures such as the 1838 degrees F. El Capote Log Cabin, 1886 XIT Ranch headquarters, 1888 Matador Half2. In a large cast-iron Dugout and 1909 Queen-Anne-style Barton House. skillet, brown the ground Visitors will have maps pointing the way to each structure. turkey sausage on medium Volunteers bring the ranch to life in each structure, play live music, sell heat, and crumble into piechot cocoa, make kettle corn, help Santa with his visitors, serve meals to the es. volunteers, keep pathways safe, sing Christmas carols, oversee the parking 3. When the turkey saulot, and much more. sage is fully cooked, reThe lighted pathways are wheelchair and stroller accessible as visitors pass move meat from the skillet cowboys camped out near their horses and brewing coffee over a campfire. and set aside. Visitors can purchase refreshments in the 6666 Barn and on the Campbell 4. Add olive oil to the patio while they listen to Christmas music with a Texas swing. skillet and saute the red onIn cooperation with the ranching center, the International Cultural Center ion and sweet potatoes on medium heat for about 5 minutes. 5. Then stir in the bell peppers, jalapeno and spices (smoked paprika, at Texas Tech will host Weihnachtfest: A Celebration of German Christmas garlic powder, cumin, salt and black pepper). Cook for about 15 minutes or Traditions from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8. Traditions include the Tuba-Euphonium Ensemble of the Texas Tech until sweet potatoes are soft. School of Music, crafts, gingerbread cookies and sausage. The cultural center 6. Make 4 wells in the hash and crack open an egg into each well. 7. Place the skillet in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until eggs is located within easy walking distance of the ranching center at 601 Indiana Ave., and the event is free to the public. are cooked. 8. Remove from oven and sprinkle with shredded cheese and your desired There are four kinds of people in the world: toppings. those who are currently caregivers, Note: If you don’t have an oven friendly skillet, prepare the eggs in a those who have been caregivers, separate pan and add to the hash when full cooked. those who will be caregivers, and those who will need caregivers. – Rosalynn Carter

Page 24 • December 2023 • Golden Gazette

Senior Secret Santa It’s time for Lubbock Meals on Wheels’ Senior Secret Santa. This program brings gifts and the holiday spirit to clients who have little or no family with whom to celebrate. A wish list was sent to clients in October. Items frequently requested in the past are socks, blankets, slippers, sweat suits, coats, and personal care items. There’s a $40 maximum for each person. Ornaments with each person’s wish list is available to everyone wishing to adopt a client. Call or come by the Meals on Wheels office to be set up with a wish lists. Volunteers are always needed to help sort, package, and deliver gifts. Those on the program appreciate the friendly visit just as much as the gift. For more information, or to volunteer, call Janie or Nicole at 806-792-7971. Donations of extra-large gift bags (16” x 19” or larger) can help package all of Santa’s offerings. The bags can be new or lightly used. Holiday themed or any bags not specific to another celebration (birthday, shower, etc.) can be used. Drop these off at 2304 34th St. between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday You know you’re getting old when Santa starts looking younger. Santa has the right idea. Visit people only once a year.