Volume 27, Number 3
In March
Daylight Savings Begins 2 a.m. March 8 3.14 is Pi Day St. Patrick’s Day March 17 First Day of Spring March 20
Inside Spring Book Sale April 7.............. 3 Pizzarelli Jazz Quartet March 20.......... 6 Lubbock Arts Festival April 18-19..... 13 ‘Camelot’ March 13-14 .................. 10,15
March 2015
24 Pages
Lubbock, Texas 79401
Mardi Gras Celebration Set for March 3 The 16th annual Mardi Gras celebration is set for Tuesday, March 3 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. at the Lubbock Memorial Civic Center Exhibit Hall. The event, presented by Lubbock Meals on Wheels, will include more than 37 food booths featuring selections from local restaurants as well as live jazz music by the Shinn/Turner Dixieland Band, a silent auction, cash bars and a variety of activities and prizes. Colorful masks and beads
the chance to win Southwest face and hair painting. Guests may also partici- Airlines tickets. (See Mardi Gras, Page 2) pate in a benefit drawing for
will be available at the event, where guests may enjoy performances by dancers, clowns, magicians and jugglers. The children’s area will include activities for kids such as bouncers, climbers, and
Mayors’ Beans & Cornbread Luncheon Set for March 6 Hospice of Lubbock will host the 26th annual Mayors’ Beans & Cornbread Luncheon at the Lubbock Memorial Civic Center Banquet Hall on from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. March 6. Luncheon tickets are $10 each and can be purchased at the door, by calling Hospice of Lubbock at 806-795-2751, or online at www.hospiceoflubbock.org. The event, which is Hospice of Lubbock’s largest fundraiser, will include a beans and cornbread lunch hosted by local mayors from around the region as well as
live music and a “Tip Your Waiter” contest. Beans, cornbread, dessert and drinks catered by Riversmith’s will be served at the luncheon by a wait staff comprised of local celebrities and community leaders. Attendees may add a Klemke’s Raider Alley Sausage link for $2. The luncheon helps raise money for Hospice of Lubbock’s non-funded and underfunded hospice patients and families, as well as the Grief Recovery Center and Children’s Grief Camp.
The Lubbock Arts Festival is set for April 18-19 at the Lubbock Memorial Civic Center, 1501 Mac Davis Lane. This year’s featured artist is Berkley White, a worldrenowned underwater cinematographer and photojournalist from Lubbock. White’s exhibit, “Underwater Explorer/Adventurer with an Artist’s Eye” will be on display throughout the festival. (See Lubbock Arts Festival, Page 13).
Page 2 • March 2015 • Golden Gazette
Income Tax Help Available through April 13 The Lubbock AARP Tax-Aide Program will be offering free tax counseling and preparation services this year for middle- to lowincome families and seniors. The program began in February and will continue until April 13 at the HOPE community of Shalom, also known as Asbury Methodist Church, located at 20th St. and Ave. T. Services will be provided from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays every week until April 13. The tax preparation service is offered on a first-come, first-served basis, and is dependent on the number of volunteers available to prepare tax returns. Photo IDs and Social Security cards are required for each person listed on the tax return. A copy of last
year’s return and all W-2s, 1099s and 109-As for 2014 are required as well as the endof-year Social Security statement. A A R P Ta x Aide is the nation’s largest free, volunteer-run tax counseling and preparation program. Every year, they help millions of low- to moderate-income taxpayers, especially those over age 60, get the credits and deductions they deserve. Tax-Aide volunteers are trained and IRS-certified each year to ensure their knowledge of revisions to the U.S. tax code. Questions may be directed to 806269-0230 or 806-368-5297. The last client will be taken at 2:30 p.m. each day. The remaining dates are March 2, 4, 9 11, 16, 18, 23, 25, and 30; April 1, 6, 8 and 13.
Why is it that when someone tells you that there are one billion stars in the universe you believe them, but if they tell you there is wet paint, you have to touch it to check?
“Holly Avenue” is a group of four delightful young ladies who performed at the recent New Neighbors Club luncheon. The group received splendid reviews from the audience. “Their a cappella rendition of the Battle Hymn of the Republic closed the program with the entire audience on their feet,” said Sue Webb, New Neighbors president. For more information about New Neighbors, contact Mary Valentini at 799-4450, newneigbhors@ymail.com.
Mardi Gras to include food, fun and music (Continued from Page 1)
Proceeds from the Mardi Gras celebration will benefit Lubbock Meals on Wheels, a local non-profit organization that prepares and delivers hot, nutritious meals to those who are homebound, elderly or disabled. With the help of more than 1,200 volunteers, more than 180,000 meals were delivered in 2014.
Event tickets are $35 for adults and $10 for children ages 17 and under. Tickets can be purchased in advance at Lubbock Meals on Wheels, 2304 34th St., any Select-A-Seat location (service charge applies), or for $40 at the door. Meals on Wheels accepts cash, checks or credit cards. For more information, call Lubbock Meals on Wheels at 792-7971.
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Golden Gazette • March 2015 • Page 3
Lubbock High Student to West Point Dana Cody has been appointed to the United States Military Academy at West Point. Cody is a Lubbock High School senior and Navy Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps cadet. Cody received the news from Congressman Randy Neugebauer. When speaking to the Congressman Cody
said, “This last year has been such a whirlwind of preparation. Thank you so much. I’m speechless.” Cody is a student with a grade point average of 4.66. She is ranked 26 in a class of 503 of her peers who will graduate from Lubbock High in May. She is also a member of the Navy Junior ROTC varsity
Dana Cody received an appointment to West Point. Congressman Randy Neugebauer presented a U.S. flag to Cody, during the official announcement.
Spring Book Sale, April 7
Wolfforth Friends of the Library will begin its spring book sale from 3 to 7 p.m. April 7. The sale will continue April 8-9 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and April 10 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The library is located at 508 East Highway 62/82 in Wolfforth, 806-855-4150. The group purchased many new shelves and other furniture for the library along
with supporting the children’s program held during the summer. A book sale goes on in the library year-round consisting of fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books along with a book sale in the spring and fall. Friends of the Library is a non-profit organization supporting the program and services of the area.
Why is it that whenever you attempt to catch something that’s falling off the table you always manage to knock something else over?
fitness team and academic team. Lubbock High’s chief military science instructor, Commander Paul Hill, said the appointment to West Point has a value of $400,000.
Agape United Methodist Church Join us for Sunday worship at 10 a.m. † Classic Worship † Quality Teaching † Biblical Preaching 1215 Slide Road
799-8691
presents the
Lubbock
s t r A Festival
April 18-19, 2015 Lubbock Memorial Civic Center
www.lubbockartsfestival.org Admission: $4 adults; $2 children • Information: 806. 744. ARTS (2787)
Art n Music n Dance n Theatre n Underwater Photography* *Featured artist Berkley White is a world-renown underwater explorer, cinematographer, and photo journalist.
Page 4 • March 2015 • Golden Gazette
New Mediation Service for Veterans Lubbock County has been victim offender mediation awarded a grant by the Tex- service in Texas targeting as Veterans Commission to veterans. implement the first criminal The Office of Dispute
Resolution with the assistance of the Criminal District Attorney’s Office, law enforcement, courts, and others are working to identify and refer veterans involved with the criminal justice system. State law requires the prosecutor’s approval before a pending complaint in the criminal justice system can be referred to mediation. The court, with the consent of the prosecutor and participants, can refer the parties for a victim offender mediation;
By James K. White Jupiter is the largest planet in our solar system. It is the fifth planet from the sun. More than 1,000 earths would be required to match the volume of Jupiter. None of this information is the basis of my mentioning Jupiter today. Our largest planet has an identifying huge red spot and that red spot is rapidly (by planet standards) disappearing. In 1979, the spot was 14,500 miles wide, and in 2014, only 10,250 miles wide. Some astronomers seem frantic (if not hysterical) as to what can be done. No cause has been determined for the shrinkage nor any remedy offered to sensitive scientists as to how they might regain composure. In July 1862, David Glasgow Farragut was promoted to the rank of rear admiral. He was the first admiral of any sort in the U.S. Navy. In 1866, he became the
the prosecutor may refer before or after a perpetrator has pled; and law enforcement officers also have the ability to make direct referrals to the Office of Dispute Resolution if the parties want to explore a solution that is satisfactory to all before intervention by a prosecutor. All unresolved matters will be evaluated by the Criminal District Attorney for consideration of filing or proceeding with a criminal complaint. The Lubbock County proj-
ect is potentially viewed as a model for replication by other counties in the state. Mediations will be conducted by mediators who are veterans and have received advanced training regarding these specialized cases. Any questions regarding the project should be addressed to D. Gene Valentini, director for the Office of Dispute Resolution, at 806-7751720 or odr@co.lubbock. tx.us.
jkwhite46@gmail.com
first naval officer to attain the rank of full admiral. He died at age 69 (1870) subsequent to having served 60 years in the navy. Farragut had enlisted at age 9 as a midshipman. Some of the world’s oldest existing written records came from Mesopotamia (now Iraq). Years of hard study have revealed that most of these written archives are inventories of wine stored in clay containers called amphorae. Typical amphorae would hold 12 to 125 gallons of wine each. The eBay company was founded in 1995 by Pierre Omidyar. Interpreting dating jargon: “I think that we should start seeing other people” means “I already am.” Data indicates that hurricanes have an average life span of nine days. A recent important study has revealed that almost exactly half of all marshmal-
lows sold to consumers are roasted over a fire of some ilk. Some say it is the ilk that dramatically enhances taste. When Germany invaded Belgium in 1914, there was a Vietnamese chef’s apprentice working at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in London. The head chef commented on how impressed he was with the hardworking trainee. Shortly after the Germanic invasion, the apprentice abandoned his promising pursuit of a chef’s career and returned to Vietnam. That homecoming turned out to be very fateful for many people. The young Vietnamese was Ho Chi Minh. Vanilla beans come from a plant that is a member of the orchid family. So far, the vanilla plant is the only known edible (for humans) orchid. Well, you might want to check to see what is in your amphorae – and have a great week.
Golden Gazette • March 2015 • Page 5
Aging Workforce Good for Employers and Economy WASHINGTON, D.C., America’s aging workforce is a good thing for employers and the economy, according to Dan Weber, president of the Association of Mature American Citizens, noting that a new Gallup poll shows that employee engagement increases with age, even well into workers’ 60s and 70s. The poll concluded that older workers are more involved in and enthusiastic about their work and more productive members of their workplace -- than younger workers. Weber said it is no secret that over the next 20 years Americans will be turning 65 at a rate of 10,000 a day. “It’s not surprising, therefore, that seniors are staying on the job much longer than in the past,” Weber said. “Some seniors continue to work well past traditional retirement to make ends meet;
many stay because they find fulfillment in their jobs.” He pointed out that people are not only living longer these days, they’re living healthier, more active lives. That, combined with the greater freedom at home that comes with reduced family obligations, makes older employees more focused on the satisfaction of a job well done. The U.S. Census Bureau reported that in 1984 about 15% of the workforce was 65 years of age or older, and in 2014 the labor participation rate of men and women over 65 had grown to nearly 27%. The Gallup survey found that employers gain a competitive advantage by utilizing the experience of older workers and taking advantage of the knowledge they’ve gained over the years. Meanwhile, a separate study by Gary Burtless, a re-
Step Up to Fitness for Adults The Community Health Center of Lubbock is offering free exercise classes, the first Monday of every month, from 7 to 8 p.m., at the Arnett Benson Medical & Dental Clinic, 3301 Clovis Road. The program focuses on prevention and healthy living. For more information and registration please contact Yvonne at 765-2611, ext. 1009. Walking Clubs Would you like to start a Walking Club in your area? Contact Yvonne at 765-2611, ext. 1009. Participants with most sessions attended and most walking steps will be awarded monthly.
searcher at the Brookings Institution, indicated that older workers are more productive, as well. “Compared with earlier generations of aging Americans and compared with contemporary prime-age workers, today’s elderly are unusually well educated,” Burtless said. “Their high relative earnings and later retirement are partly explained by this fact.” Weber said that working seniors have a positive effect on the economy. They have more disposable income and, as a result, have created a growth market for private sector companies. In fact, he pointed out, J.P. Morgan has put together an Aging Population Index to keep track of companies that benefit from the country’s aging citizenry. In addition, Weber noted that working Baby Boomers pay more taxes and are helping bolster both local and
national economies. “Ageism is still a problem for older workers, but there are signs that employers are waking up to the reality that there are a lot of benefits to keeping senior employees on their payrolls and hiring from the fast-growing pool of older job seekers,” Weber said. “Employers are begin-
ning to realize that they can be excellent role models for younger workers, their enthusiasm is infectious, in most cases the work means more to them than their paychecks and, of course, that they have had a lifetime of learning from their mistakes.” Courtesy of Association of Mature American Citizens
Tuesday, March 3, 5:30 to 9 p.m. at the Civic Center Exhibit Hall Adults $35 ($40 at the door)
Children 17 and under are $10.
* 37 local restaurants * Live Jazz * Beads * Masks * Cash Bars * Variety of Entertainers * Silent Auction
For seniors 65 & older
Coupon may be redeemed at Lubbock Meals on Wheels or at the door (This coupon is NOT valid at Select-a-Seat locations)
BENEFITING Lubbock Meals on Wheels
2304 34th St.
792-7971
Garrison Institute on Aging
“Over the Counter Medications and Products for the Skin” Ikue Shimizu, M.D. Assistant Professor Department of Dermatology Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
Wednesday, March 25, 2015 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. TTUHSC, 3601 4th St. Academic Classroom Building Room 150 Free Event. Snacks Provided. Blood Pressure Screening from 3pm-4pm. For details, call 806.743.7821 or visit www.ttuhsc.edu/aging
Page 6 • March 2015 • Golden Gazette
John Pizzarelli Jazz Quartet with Jane Monheit in ‘Singers Over Manhattan’ A duo of Grammy-nominated jazz contenders, John Pizzarelli and Jane Monheit, will perform at 7 p.m. March 6 at Texas Tech’s Allen Theatre, located in the Student Union building on campus. General admission is $18 from Select-A-Seat 806-7702000. A CD signing will follow the performance. A conversational singer and smooth hand at the
7-string guitar, Pizzarelli blends his sound perfectly with Monheit’s exemplary jazz vocals. Featured on PBS Legends of Jazz, John Pizzarelli and Jane Monheit perform everything from Nat King Cole and Frank Sinatra to the Beatles. A world-renowned jazz guitarist and singer, John Pizzarelli has been called “the genial genius of the guitar” by The Toronto Star. He has
performed on many popular national television shows. Acclaimed Grammy-nominated vocalist Jane Monheit brings a fresh, contemporary voice to classic jazz hits while preserving the soul and power of the original to flawless effect. Monheit’s smooth vocals are perfectly suited to the long, lingering emotion of the ballad or the sultry melody of a jazz standard.
fers several degree programs that can be earned entirely online, including five undergraduate minors; four bachelor’s degrees; 15 master’s degrees, four doctoral degrees; 21 graduate certificates; six graduate certification preparation programs. The online education program also offers programs at Texas Tech’s regional sites in Waco, El Paso, Junction, Fredericksburg, and Highland Lakes. “Texas Tech is commit-
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Special Tailoring Hope is that colored silken thread feeding into the loom of life is woven with the hemp of reality into clothing for the soul. When destiny, the tailor, wishes to clothe a special client, the bright strands of dreams go into the warp, and strange brave designs appear in the fabric. Because it may need to last long, the strength of courted to meeting the needs of the 21st century learner by age is twisted in the woof offering high-quality online of raiment for those whose and distance education pro- feet climb eagerly toward the grams,” said Justin Louder, peaks. assistant vice provost. “Our commitment to quality online An Old Valise education shows in our rankAdventure’s exotic pering with BestColleges.com.” fume is gone from my old Texas Tech jumped in the valise. The once sleek and ranking from No. 45 to No. polished leather sides are 21 and is one of only two drooping and wrinkled. schools in Texas included in The thrill of lurching taxi the ranking each of the past cabs in the bright tinsel lanes two years. of strange cities which ended
Texas Tech Honored for Online Programs
Texas Tech University was ranked No. 21 among other national four-year universities for its online programs by BestColleges.com for the 2014-2015 academic year. This is the second straight year the university has been ranked. The rankings are based on admissions, enrollment, retention and graduation data, and each school must offer at least three fully online degree programs. Worldwide eLearning of-
miraculously where hissing monsters made temporal berths, sleeping with one eye open, amid the soothing aroma of coal smoke, oil and steam, goes without benefit of attorney as a heritage to memory. Scooting on the tile floors of hotel lobbies, clinging to the soft carpets of Pullman cars, the valise carries scars of futile battles – with the handle broken in New Orleans, and the brass cleat missing at Tampa, a deep scratch from St. Louis, and the hair oil that spilled in Albuquerque, followed by a mysterious peeling near Los Angeles. Like a grizzled veteran dreaming of bursting shell while lean fingers motion the cradle of a child, my valise has surrendered to domesticity and reposes in an obscure closet corner as a receptacle for unseasonable underwear.
Golden Gazette • March 2015 • Page 7
Once in a Lifetime Experience with Monarch Butterflies
By Margaret Merrell Recently there have been numerous media reports about the beautiful orange and black Monarch butterflies and how their numbers were diminishing. One reported the loss of their feeding grounds along their migration route due to the harvesting of the trees for lumber. Our wish is for their numbers to increase so they may continue to bless us with their beauty. Back in the mid-1990s, I was living on the outskirts of a small Texas town in the Hill Country. My house
was nestled amidst huge pecan trees, some oak, and lots of cedars. A little creek ran nearby. Late one fall evening, I returned home after being away for the day. I hurriedly filled a bucket with deer corn to feed the deer that crossed the north end of my property every evening making their way to the water. I almost dropped the corn as I stepped into my back yard. All the trees and plants in and surrounding my yard were covered with a blanket of Monarch butterflies. Many were almost wing tip to wing tip covering the limbs and trunks while hundreds and maybe thousands more were fluttering all around, seeking landing places… or so it seemed to me. I have no idea how long I stood there taking in this wonderful scene until I became aware that I was a part of it, as some of the braver ones
began to fly all around me, and settled on my shoulders and hair. Cold shivers ran over my entire body. Ever so slowly I lifted my arms and walked right into the midst of the multitude still flying about the yard. There was no panic among any of my visitors. I began to talk to them in a soft voice as I walked slowly around the yard, feeling light brushes of wings on my arms, neck and cheeks. I was completely engulfed in this magical world with such an unbelievable feeling of love and trust. As I whispered to tell them how welcome they were, I heard hooves stomping from the far end of my property. I looked and several deer were letting me know it was time for their
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corn. I picked up the bucket and slipped out the gate. The Monarchs stayed behind, but some welcomed me when I returned. It was really dusky dark, and the air was cooling when I said goodnight to my unusual guests and wished them a restful night. It was barely daylight the next morning when I walked into the yard, and there was not one butterfly. I used my normal voice and wished them each and every one a safe journey, sat down with my cup of coffee and my fur pal, Oreana, and recalled the events of the evening before. When I called the game warden, he was not surprised to hear about the Monarchs. He had the same adventure two years earlier. He also told me others may follow for two more evenings, and he spoke the truth. The groups were much smaller, but just as friendly. I will never forget my once-in-a-lifetime thrill of
25
$
Catherine Royalty celebrated her 100th birthday, and a reception at Wilshire Place was given in her honor on Feb. 22. A graduate of Texas Tech and Lubbock High, Royalty had a long teaching career in Lubbock. She served in the Navy during World War II in San Francisco, coding and decoding ship movements. She celebrated with friends and a lot of laughter.
For One Dozen Long Stem Red Roses!
Delivered March 26, 27 & 28 Delivery in Lubbock city limits only.
South Plains Lions Club www.lubbocksouthplainslions.org
Call 281-6469 Supporting the Lubbock Boys & Girls Clubs and other charities.
Page 8 • March 2015 • Golden Gazette
Pi Day – the most accurate one in 100 years The annual, worldwide celebration of Pi Day will be recognized this year on Saturday, March 14. Pi Day is a yearly commemoration of the mathematical constant of pi, better known as π, which equals approximately 3.14. This irrational, transcendental number represents the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter, and is significant not only because it continues infinitely without repetition or pattern, but is constant in circles of any size. Pi Day is celebrated March 14, written in date form as 3/14, to represent the first three digits of pi in decimal form: 3.14. Pi Day has been
recognized and celebrated yearly by scholars and mathlovers since 1988, when the staff of San Francisco Exploratorium hosted the earliest known celebration of pi. Visitors were invited to the Exploratorium to participate in pi-related activities and enjoy a slice of apple pie. Pi Day has since been
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observed in many ways, the most popular including discussions and activities about the significance of pi as well as the baking, eating (and sometimes throwing!) of pies. This year, Pi Day will have a special significance due to the sequential date and time that will occur on 3/14/15 at 9:26:53 p.m. This combination represents the first 10 digits of pi, 3.141592653, and only occurs once every 100 years. This makes March 14, 2015 the most accurate Pi Day that many people on Earth will live to see. The symbol of pi, π, was first used in 1706 by William Jones. Because “p” was chosen to represent the perimeter of a circle, the use of π became popular after it was adopted by mathematician Leonhard Euler in 1737. Though pi has been calculated to over one trillion digits beyond its decimal point, only 39 digits are needed to accurately calculate the spherical volume of our entire universe.
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In my day (I’ve gotta come up with a better expression), there were no designated hitters or runners. There were no closers. I remember seeing Bob Feller pitch a double hitter on the 4th of July. No, I didn’t. But I heard he did. There was no instant replay back then, like we’re going to have to put up with from now on. What’s next -- laser beams at home plate, so there’ll be no more yelling at the ump? I guess they’re trying to do away with human imperfections. Pitchers are throwing close to a hundred miles an hour these days, and we’ve got radar to prove it. They do have a shorter shelf life, but we don’t get as attached to players as we used to. So it’s not that hard to see them go. Why isn’t the number 11 pronounced onety-one? Why do croutons come in airtight packages? Aren’t they just stale bread to begin with? If people from Poland are called Poles, then why aren’t people from Holland called Holes If a pig loses its voice, is it disgruntled?
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1310 Avenue Q • Lubbock,TX 79401 806-744-2220 • 806-744-2225 Fax
GOLDEN GAZETTE is published monthly by Word Publications, 1310 Avenue Q, Lubbock, Texas 79401. News items, letters to the editor, photographs, and other items may be submitted for publication. All letters to the editor must include the writer’s name, address and telephone number. Letters may be edited. Advertising rates are available upon request. To subscribe, send a check to Golden Gazette for $24 for a one-year subscription, or $48 for a two-year subscription. Editor: Jo Stone Staff: Jo Anne Corbet, Don Cotten, George Dawson, Mary Ann Edwards, Mike Lankford, Gary McDonald, Cathy Mottet, Cary Swinney, Carole Taff, Clayton Errington, Cara Vandergriff Contributing writers: Dr. Elva Edwards, Karon McDowell, Margaret Merrell, W.E. Reinka, James K. White, Colin Esler Contributing jokester: Calva Ledbetter View the Gazette online at: www.wordpub.com
Golden Gazette • March 2015 • Page 9
Volunteer Opportunities and Information
VOICE!
By Joan Blackmon, Coordinator Lead With Experience
St Paul’s Thrift House It is a resale shop at 1508 Ave. X that sells used clothing, household items, books, etc. at greatly reduced prices. The revenue is utilized by the Episcopal Church Women at St. Paul’s for their outreach and internal projects. They are in need of volunteers to staff the Thrift House. Volunteers usually take one shift (between 1.5 to 3 hours) per month, and hours can vary day by bay. Duties include helping customers, writing tickets, and making change. If interested, contact Renee Haney, Thrift House liaison at 806762-2893. Meals on Wheels Lubbock Meals on Wheels is looking for volunteer drivers, both regular and substitute, to deliver meals. Each route contains approximately 10-12 meals and can be delivered in an hour. Orientation and background checks are required for all delivery volunteers. More than 700 meals are delivered each day and the need is growing. One hour of your time can make an incredible difference in the life of someone who is homebound, elderly, or disabled. For information, call 806792-7971.
company logo (pens, sticky pads, golf tees, and other small items) are recommended. If you have 1 or 10 – we can use them.
Spring Screening Spring Screening will be St. John’s United held at the Garrison Institute Methodist Church St. John’s United Method- on Aging, 6630 S. Quaker ist Church Benevolence Pro- Ave. from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., gram is in need of volunteers March 12. There will be each Tuesday from 1-3 p.m. blood pressure and glucose Volunteers will assist in screening, a Farmer’s Marfood voucher program, dis- ket, and nutritionist on site, tribution of hygiene items, information on healthy dinSpanish translator for clients ing and exercise as well as who do not understand or guidance on other medical unable to communicate in issues. A free car clinic will be English, and benefits assistant who deal directly with available to check fluid levclients, basic computer skills els, tires, and other safety issues on a vehicle. The required. If interested, contact Wes event is free and open to the public. No registration is Gaddie at 361-244-2335. required. Stockings for Servicemen In 2014, Lubbock RSVP “Keys to Aging Well” “Keys to Aging Well” and its volunteers assisted in providing more than 4,000 is a wellness forum hosted stockings for servicemen by Lubbock RSVP. It will overseas. This community be held from 9 a.m. to 2 effort takes many months to p.m. April 10, at Broadway Church of Christ. Registracomplete. If you or your group tion will begin at 8:45 am. The forum will have exwould like to help in the perts in the areas of health 2015 effort, contact the Lubbock RSVP office at 743- and safety, nutrition, money 7787. We can use the assis- and legal issues, making final tance. Old Christmas cards, decisions and plans as well new Christmas cards, per- as numerous vendors. The sonal size toiletries, games, topics are targeted for those and other items are packed 50 or older, or those who are caregivers. A light breakfast for this effort. We need groups to sign and lunch will be provided. Christmas Cards (can be The event is free but attendSunday School groups, chil- ees must call to reserve their dren’s organizations, social attendance at 743-7787. groups), donations of ‘free ‘Those who can, do. Those stuff,’ and decks of cards. who can do more, volunteer.’ Items that are labeled with a – Author Unknown
The statistics on sanity say that one out of every four persons is suffering from some sort of mental illness. Think of your three best friends. If they’re OK, then it’s you. A day without a smile is like a day without sunshine. And a day without sunshine is, like night.
COVERED SERVICES: • Experienced Nurses Trained in Palliative Care • Pain and Symptom Management • 24-hour On-Call Availability and Support • Medications, Medical Equipment and Supplies related to the hospice diagnosis • Continuous Care at home during periods of pain or uncontrolled symptoms • Physician Services that may include Home Visits • Hospice/Home Health Aide Services
“Your comfort, Our purpose”.
• Medical Social Services • Spiritual and Emotional Counseling • Trained Volunteers • Bereavement Support • Wound Care • In-Patient Care • Physical, Occupational, Respiratory and Speech Therapies
1401 9th St. Lubbock, TX 79401 Phone 806.747.9484 Fax 806.747.9497
• Dietary and Nutritional Counseling
Page 10 • March 2015 • Golden Gazette
‘Camelot’ Presentation, March 13-14 Celebrity Attractions has set March 13-14 for the production of “Camelot” at the Lubbock Memorial Civic Center Theatre. Performances are set for 7:30 p.m., March 13; and 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., March 14. Tickets are available at all Select-A-Seat locations or by calling 806-770-2000.
Expect the Unexpected at The Crafthouse A few months ago, a dear friend of nearly 20 years suggested we get together for lunch. She lives in Ransom Can-
yon and spends a lot of time at her ranch in Turkey, so meeting is always a treat. Friends recommended The Crafthouse a gastropub at 3131 34th St. They are closed Monday and open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, and Sunday brunch is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. It has been in business more than two years. Since neither of us had tried this newbie, I though meeting her there would be a new adventure for both of us. We were delighted, and everything was super delicious. The interior is casual, with both tables and booths. The décor is reminiscent of an English pub. Our waitress gave us a lot of info about their food. Absolutely nothing is frozen. All food is prepared from scratch, and all is fresh. The grass-fed beef is ground on site every day. Friend ordered the crab cake plate, which came with a salad, peaches and veggies. I ordered fish sticks. The fish sticks are offered year-round on the menu. When our plates were served, the fish sticks looked like corn dogs on steroids! The so-called sticks were large wooden skewers inserted in one end of each large piece of fish. The fried batter coating was crunchy, and inside was flaky, succulent cod. The chips were fries, but should be considered in the gourmet category. The seasoning was beyond the ordinary S & P. I’m clueless as to what was used. As for friend’s crab cake
– it was about an inch thick, at least four inches in diameter, and packed with jumbo pieces of lump crab. I’ve never seen anything crab cake like it. The presentation with the fruit and veggies was outstanding, and friend was totally amazed at the taste. Since their menus change with the season, crab cakes are not available during this current winter menu. However, they should be offered again sometime in the future. My fish plate was $11, and friend’s was $18. We shared cobbler fries for dessert. This again was definitely in the unexpected category. The seasonal fruit consisted of chopped peaches in a jam-like consistency served in a small cup with finger-sized shortbread cookies on the side. The peach concoction was a dip for the cookies – YUMMY!!! There was plenty to share. Our dessert was $6. The cobbler is not available currently this season, however the banoffee pie is, and it’s a slice of “banana heaven.”There are other popular items on the menu that do not change. One is their super fantastic onion soup. This masterpiece is full of delicious onions, Ciabatta toast, and a thick slice of Gruyere Swiss cheese. The cup-size offered is bowl-size in other restaurants. The cup portion is $4, and the bowl is $7. Another popular nochange item is the everpopular Chili Relleno. Happy St. Patrick’s Day. Granny
Golden Gazette • March 2015 • Page 11
Healing the Heart: In-Home Care Can Assist in Recovery The impact of heart disease in the United States is significant, and it is most strikingly significant in the older population. It is the most prevalent cause of death in the United States, and 80% of those who die of cardiovascular disease are 65 or older. Every year nearly 720,000 Americans suffer a heart attack. The chances that those who suffer from a heart attack will end up back in the hospital within 30 days of being discharged for the first attack is also great, and the financial impact is tremendous, accounting for $108.9 billion in medical costs each year. While these statistics are notable, the real impact is with the seniors suffering from heart disease, and the question they have after they
suffer a heart attack is, “How can I prevent this from happening again?” There are many factors that come into play that can cause older adults to end up back in the hospital after a heart attack, and many of these factors may be beyond their control. A failure to properly care for themselves, however, is one factor they can control. In particular, seniors can help themselves stay out of the hospital by visiting with their physicians for follow-up care, taking the appropriate medications at the prescribed times, following through with prescribed therapies, reducing stress, stopping smoking, and following their physicians’ guidance for diet and exercise. While this may seem like a
simple instruction, often these older adults become overwhelmed as they try to deal with their illness and drastic lifestyle changes. Studies show that many patients leave the hospital without fully understanding their disease or their plan of care and may inadvertently stop taking medications that are essential for their recovery. Supporting patients when they leave the hospital is therefore critical to help them help themselves. To help older adults adjust and cope with their illness, medical professionals can offer specific medical support and education; it is also important that these seniors get support within the community. Having family members, friends, or professional care-
givers help them can relieve much of the stress they may feel thereby allowing them to focus on getting better. Simple help such as providing transportation to follow-up care, helping to prepare meals, or reminding the senior when a medication is due can alleviate anxiety about managing daily tasks and can help increase the older adult’s compliance with
medical directives. This in turn may just keep that senior out of the hospital and on the road to recovery. To learn more about how inhome care can assist you or a loved one during recovery from an illness, contact the local Comfort Keepers office today, or any other home health care company. - www.comfortkeepers. com
Diabetes Self-Management & Nutrition Classes Community Health Center of Lubbock has free diabetes self-management and nutrition classes. Each course is provided in a group setting and meets once weekly for 8 weeks. Participants are presented with information and instruction for diabetes management.
5
Upcoming classes: ● March 10 through May ● March 25 through May
13
● May 1 through June 19 ● May 7 through June 25 Contact Josh at 806-7652611 ext. 1007 for class times and locations.
Gracious Independent Living For Active Senior Ladies ♥ The Sherick - is an elegant ground-level residence. ♥ The Sherick - provides nutritious meals by professional staff in an exquisite dining room. ♥ The Sherick - has state-of-the-art exercise facility, security cameras, and transportation
2502 Utica Avenue Lubbock, Texas 79407
In a class to herself Since 1959
Call for a Free Tour
806-799-8600
or toll free 800-687-8900
Page 12 • March 2015 • Golden Gazette
Golden Gazette • March 2015 • Page 13
Lubbock Arts Festival Set for April 18-19 The 37th annual Lubbock Arts Festival will be held April 18-19 at the Lubbock Memorial Civic Center, 1501 Mac Davis Lane. Admission to the festival will be $4 for adults and $2 for children under 12. The festival will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. April 18 and from noon to 5 p.m. April 19. The two-day event will feature 150 visual artists from around the nation displaying and selling original work. The festival presents a variety of works each year, from drawings, paintings and pottery to jewelry, glass, and sculpture. This year’s featured artist is Berkley White, a worldrenowned underwater cinematographer and photojournalist from Lubbock. White’s exhibit, “Underwater Explorer/Adventurer with an Artist’s Eye” will be on display throughout the festival. A juried gallery of professional work will be available for viewing as well as artwork from local school children. Performing stages will showcase local and regional talent with song, dance, theatre and instrumental performances.
The
Highest prices paid for your gold & silver! 806.793.5720
2449 34th Street Corner of 34th & University A Lubbock native, Berkley White, will be the featured artist at the Lubbock Arts Festival, April 18-19. He is known for his underwater cinematography and photography. Pictured is an underwater cave in Mexico. White is a graduate of Monterey High School.
Demonstrations by artists will take place along with 10 different “Kid Stops,” which will provide free art-related activities for children such as take-home projects, a book fair, and a chance to perform on the Kid’s Karaoke stage. There will also be a chance to participate in Young Artist and Young Writer competitions. A free public performance by the Santa Fe Opera Spring Tour will be held at 7 p.m. April 18 as well as a professional children’s theatrical performance by the Storybook Theatre of Texas at 5 p.m. Saturday and at 1 p.m. Sunday More information is available at www.lubbockartsfestival.org or by calling 744-ARTS.
Berkley White
Page 14 • March 2015 • Golden Gazette
Winston Martin worked at the Post a few examples of those in his collecOffice for 38 years. One would think tion, highlighting interesting times in he would tire of stamps, but not so. American history. He is an avid collector. Following are
July 1, 1945: First Airmail flight westbound from Lubbock. Sent to G P Haworth, General Delivery, Amarillo, Texas.
First Trans-Atlantic Air Mail Service, from New York to Marseille, France, May 2, 1939.
First Hindenburg Europe-America flight, May 11, 1936.
Downsizing is Difficult. Air mail from the “Home of Lincoln,” Lindburgh flight Aug. 15, 1927
What do you take with you?
How do you get it there?
What do you do with what doesn’t fit?
We can help!
Bonded & Insured Each office is independently owned & operated.
Senior Relocation Downsizing Estate Sales
806-686-3360
www.caringtransitionslubbock.com
San Francisco to New York via Calcutta, India mailed June 26, 1947.
Golden Gazette • March 2015 • Page 15
Page 16 • March 2015 • Golden Gazette
Golden Gazette Crossword Puzzle ACROSS
1. Person who wades 6. Oxlike African antelope 9. Once more 13. Hoist 14. Periods of history 15. Hindu mother goddess 16. Tending to irritate 18. Baking chamber 19. Colored 20. Elector 21. Hawaiian goose 22. Black or dark wood 24. Indoor game 25. Before this time 28. Nephew of King Arthur 31. Impertinent 32. Pertaining to the pope 33. Evening 36. Poker stake 37. Relinquish 38. Roman poet 39. Exclamation of disgust 40. Destiny
Each Tuesday:
TOPS, Take Off Pounds Sensibly, Life Run Center, 8240 Boston Ave., weigh in 4 to 5:25, meeting 5:30, 787-1045
Each Wednesday:
Wednesdays at the Arboretum, help plant, clean, maintain Lubbock Memorial Arboretum gardens, 4111 S. University, 797-4520 for details. Laughter Yoga, Covenant Lifestyle Center, 6th Floor, East Parking Garage, 3615 19th St., 5:30 p.m., 725-0708, www.laughteryoga.com
Each Friday:
Make A Joyful Noise Ministries, Asbury House Of Prayer Brown Room, 2005 Ave T, 544-7310 Bible Study Men and Women, 6 to 7 p.m., Talk Time (women only), 7 to 8 p.m., Irene McGaha 544-7310, irene.mcgaha@earthlink.net Sunday, March 1 -Peanut Butter Lovers’ Day Monday, March 2 -Old Stuff Day Diabetes Support Group, Knipling Education Conference Center, 21st St. & Louisville Ave., 6 p.m.
4 1. Division of a stage play 42. Apathy 44. Supporter 45. Pale green mosslike lichen 47. Accolade 48. Swindle 49. Indifferent 52. Emperor of Rome 56. Scottish Gaelic 57. Vitamin B 59. Shower 60. To travel laboriously 61. Mountain ridge 62. Petty quarrel 63. Speak 64. Funeral fires
DOWN
1. To move nimbly 2. Ethereal 3. Venture 4. Proof 5. To soak 6. Pluck
7. The hub of a wheel 8. A drug addict 9. Hebrew word for God 10. Imaginary 11. A happening 12. Fermented grape juices 14. English public school 17. A promise 23. Male child 24. Indian dish 25. Son of Isaac and Rebekah 26. Tolled 27. Mercy killing 28. Third letter of the Greek alphabet 29. Capital of Western Samoa 30. Buddhist temple 32. Persian fairy 34. Red wine 35. Paradise 37. Father 38. Consisting of eight 40. New Zealand parrot 41. Sorrowful 43. Building material
4 4. Whiff 45. Consumers 46. Fragment 47. An eccentric 49. Skills 50. Monetary unit of Italy 51. Comply
5 3. At any time 54. Religious practice 55. Singles 58. One circuit
Solution on Page 25
Diabetes Support Group, See the online calendar at www.LubbockSeniorSource.com. Click on “Enriching Lives Calendar” Lubbock Eye Clinic Conference Room, 3701 34th St., 7 p.m. Floor, 6 p.m., Bob Stargel, 790-3770 Friday, March 6 -Sunday, March 8 -- Be Nasty Day or Nancy Stargel, 281-7646. National Frozen Food Day Tuesday, March 3 -Quilters: Chapparral Quilters Guild, First Friday Art Trail, Louise Hopkins Monday, March 9 -- Panic Day If Pets Had Thumbs Day Garden & Arts Center, 4215 S. UniUnderwood Center for the Arts, 511 South Plains Quilters Guild, Garden C.O.P.E. with Women’s Reproduc& Arts Center, 4215 S. University versity, 7 p.m., 788-0856 Ave. K & other stops including The tive Cancers, Open to survivors Ave., 10 a.m. Museum of Texas Tech, 4th St & and caretakers, First Foursquare UMC Better Breathers Club, UMC Wednesday, March 11 -Indiana Ave., 6 to 9 p.m. Church, 10701 Indiana, 6 p.m., Johnny Appleseed Day Activities Center, 5217 82nd St., Amber at 796-1317 Seniors Are Special, McInturff ConSaturday, March 7 -- National Ste. 128, 6 to 7 p.m. Gem & Mineral Society, Forrest ference Center, University Medical Crown Roast of Pork Day Heights United Methodist Church, South Plains Woodturners, Wood Tuesday, March 10 -Center, 3 p.m. 3007 33rd St., 7 p.m., 799-2722 Middle Name Pride Day Shop of Target Sheet Metal Manufacturing, 315 SE Loop 289, 10 a.m., West Texas Parkinsonism Society, Thursday, March 12 -Wednesday, March 4 -Plant a Flower Day Covenant Health System Knipling 784-0607 or 799-7059 Holy Experiment Day Macular Degeneration: “Facts & PreEducation & Conference Center, Heritage Fiber Guild, Open to all National Active and Retired Federal ventive Measures” at the Family Vi21st St. & Louisville Ave., 6th floor workers of fiber crafts, Ranching Employees (NARFE), Furr’s Family sion Center, 2704 82nd, Free lecture of West Parking Garage, Noon, Heritage Center, 3121 Fourth St., Dining, 6001 Slide Rd, 11:30 a.m., included disease-fighting snacks. Lunch served 10:30 a.m. to noon, Patricia, 783799-6796 or 795-9158 Call 745-2222 for reservations. Ongoing Grief Recovery Support 8957. Ongoing Grief Recovery Support Group, Hospice of Lubbock, Grief Llano Estacado Driving Society, Roundtable Luncheon, Hillcrest Group, Hospice of Lubbock, Grief Furr’s Family Dining, 6001 Slide Recovery Center, 3702 21st St., Country Club Main Dining Room Recovery Center, 3702 21st St., Rd, Dinner 6 p.m., Business meet1:30 or 7 p.m., 795-2751 4011 North Boston Avenue. Speak1:30 or 7 p.m., 795-2751 ing 7 p.m. Memory Care Support Group, Isle at er will be Steve Verett of Plains CotCaregivers Support Group, Grace Raider Ranch, 6806 43rd St., 5:30 Memory Care Support Group, Bacon ton Growers. Public is invited, $15 Medical Center Main Conference Heights Baptist Church, 5110 54th, p.m., 888-545 8510 per person. Limited menu includes Room, 2412 50th St., 7 p.m., 632North Entrance, 6:30 p.m. Lubbock Area Amputee Support beverage and dessert. Travel north 5752 Group, Knipling Education and Country Company Band, Lubbock on North University Avenue, turn Senior Center, 2001 19th St., 6:30 Conference Center, Covenant west on Newcomb Street, proceed Thursday, March 5 -to 9:30 p.m. Hospital, West Parking Building, 6th to Clubhouse. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Multiple Personality Day (See Enriching Lives, Page 17)
Golden Gazette • March 2015 • Page 17
Keep your valuables safe for only $15 a year (Continued from Page 16) Spring Screening -- Garrison Institute on Aging, 6630 S. Quaker Ave. from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Blood pressure and glucose screening, a Farmer’s Market, and nutritionist on site, information on healthy dining and exercise and more. Friday, March 13 -- Ear Muff Day Caregivers’ Support Group, Cumberland Presbyterian Church, 7702 Indiana Ave., 10 a.m., 792-3553 New Neighbors Club, Lubbock Women’s Club, 2020 Broadway, 10:30 a.m. Caring for the Caregiver Support Group, Grace House, 6502 4th Street, House #3, Lunch provided, RSVP to 791-0002, 11:45 a.m., 795-2751 Lubbock Inflammatory Bowel Disease Support Group, St. Elizabeth’s Catholic University Parish, 2316 Broadway, 7:30 p.m., 3700705 Saturday, March 14 -National Potato Chip Day Downtown Art Market, 19th St. & Buddy Holly Ave., 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. South Plains Woodcarvers, Garden & Arts Center, 4215 South University Ave., 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Second Saturday at the Arboretum: Learn about plants, gardening and more. Children (Youth 6-12) welcome to do a special gardening activity of their own while adults attend the seminar. Sponsored by the Arboretum. Refreshments at 9:30 a.m., program at 10 a.m. Lubbock Memorial Arboretum, 4111 S. University Ave., 797-4520 Roundtable Luncheon, Hillcrest Country Club Main Dining Room 4011 North Boston Avenue. Speaker will be Glen Robertson, Mayor of City of Lubbock. Public is invited, $15 per person. Limited menu includes beverage and dessert. Travel north on North University, turn west on Newcomb Street, proceed to Clubhouse. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Newcomers Bridge Club, The Bridge Center, 2563 74th, 7 p.m. Sunday, March 15 -Everything You Think is Wrong Day Monday, March 16 -Everything You Do is Right Day UMC Better Breathers Club, UMC Activities Center, 5217 82nd St., Ste. 128, 6 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 17 -Saint Patrick’s Day Caregivers Education & Support Group, Security State Bank, 7801 Quaker Ave., 10 a.m., 687-7474
Lubbock Stroke Club, Furr’s Family Dining, 6001 Slide Rd, 11 a.m., 799-0231 Wednesday, March 18 -National Agriculture Day Thursday, March 19 -Poultry Day Raising Our Children’s Kids (ROCK,) Library, First United Methodist Church, 10 a.m., All Welcome Alzheimer’s Caregivers Support Group, Carillon House, 1717 Norfolk Ave., 5:30 p.m., 281-6117 Hepatitis C Support Group, Preston Smith Library, TTU Health Sciences Center, 3601 4th St., 7 p.m., 7432730, x229 Cancer Survivor’s Support Group, Joe Arrington Cancer Center, 4101 22nd Place, 7 p.m., 725-8002 Arnett Benson Neighborhood Association, Maggie Trejo SuperCenter, 3200 Amherst, 7 p.m. Friday, March 20 -- Extraterrestrial Abductions Day Saturday, March 21 -Fragrance Day Roundtable Luncheon, Hillcrest Country Club Main Dining Room 4011 North Boston Avenue. Speaker is Holle Humphries on Quanah Parker and the Quanah Parker Trail. Public is invited. $15 per person, limited menu includes beverage and dessert. Travel north on North University Avenue, turn west on Newcomb Street and proceed to Clubhouse. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, March 22 -National Goof Off Day Monday, March 23 -Near Miss Day Dementia Support Group, Quail Ridge, 5204 Elgin, 3 p.m., 788-1919 Tuesday, March 24 -- National Chocolate Covered Raisin Day Alzheimer’s 101, Texas Tech University Library, Room 150 (Library Lab), 15th St. & Boston Ave., 5:30 p.m., 725-0935 or email stephani. stokes@alz.org Llano Estacado Audubon Society, Garden & Arts Center, 4215 University, 7 p.m., www.llanoestacadoaudubon.org. Wednesday, March 25 -Waffle Day Thursday, March 26 -- Make Up Your Own Holiday Day Indoor/Outdoor Walking Group, Hodges Community Center, 4215 S. University Ave., 10:45 a.m. (See Enriching Lives, Page 21)
A PlainsCapital Bank Safe Deposit Box provides cost-effective, secure storage for your most important documents and valuables. Visit PlainsCapital Bank at 50th & University or in the Carillon Windsong building to take advantage of exceptional customer service and our special Safe Deposit Box offer: Get a 3x5 Safe Deposit Box for just $15 a year, plus a one-time key deposit of $20. Call 795-7131 for additional sizes and prices.
For independent seniors • One-bedroom floor plan • Rent based on income • Community room with kitchenette • Library • Central AC/Heating • Secure access to building National Church Residences does not discriminate in any manner based upon race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, marital status or familial status, legal source of income, age, sexual • Small pets welcome preference, or any other class protected by state or federal law. National Church Residences does not discriminate based upon age for any reason, excluding HUD program/project requirements. • Emergency call system 910 N. Martin Luther King Blvd. • 24-hour on-call maintenance LUBBOCK, TEXAS 79403 • Must be at least 62 years old Please contact us:
806-368-9330 0463@nationalchurchresidences.org
EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY
Page 18 • March 2015 • Golden Gazette
Protect yourself & those you love,
Visualization: Seeing Your Own Success
Get Your Immunizations
Flu shot yearly and other immunizations as recommended by your physician. For assistance with locating a clinic that provides immunizations, contact the City of Lubbock Health Department at 806-775-3090
2601 York Ave.
Studios and One Bedrooms
Charm, character and comfort describe this quaint community. Come and enjoy tranquil living at Wendover. Off the beaten path, Wendover is Lubbock’s best kept secret in apartment living. The beauty of our landscaping offers a soothing respite from the hectic world. Once inside, bright skylights adorn the interior halls leading to a serene environment for reading, relaxing or reflecting on your day.
Our Community of fers Studio and One Bedroom floor plans plus: • Elevators • Laundry Facilities
• Covered Parking • Community Room
• Extra Storage • Some Utilities Paid
Bring ad in for $0 Application Fee Visit: www.wendoverinlubbock.com
Call (806) 795-1062
www.DrElvaEdwards.com The process of visualization can be used to effectively assist you with many endeavors. I love using it for health and personal development. Let’s say you want a better golf score, would like to lose weight, or have a disease process. You can use visualization to help heal yourself whether your mind believes you can or not. Top athletes use the art of visualization to help them succeed, and you can, too. The process begins by sitting down and relaxing. You can relax by simply counting deep breaths in and out about 25 times. It may be easier for you to pay attention to your body if you have listened to my recording that you can get free at my website, www. drelvaedwards.com. After listening to the recording and/or counting your breaths, you will be in the correct state of relaxation to begin visualization. Let’s say you are a golfer, and a better golf score is your desire. You would begin by visualizing yourself standing before the golf ball with your club in hand. You should then go through all of your usual motions: planting your feet where they should go, putting your body in proper form, doing your practice swing. Then you should visualize yourself, using your best form, hitting
the ball the way you want to in real life. That is the visualization process. You can repeat the process as many times as you’d like, seeing your exact movements, and most importantly, seeing the result that you want. This is practice for your day at the golf course. You can do numerous visualization processes for different parts of the game. If you are putting, you would see yourself in your best putting position, the club swinging and the ball going in. You hear the crowd roar. If you want to lose weight, you should visualize yourself doing the things necessary to lose weight, such as walking more and choosing healthier food. All the while, you should tell yourself how beautiful you are, how wellproportioned you are, and how much better healthier foods taste. You should see the love you have for yourself and your body, as well as see yourself walking down the street getting smaller and smaller in size as the weight is magically disappearing. If you have a specific health problem, you can use your mind to help you overcome that obstacle. After reaching your relaxed state, you should visualize yourself getting healthier and doing things you have given up because of your health. Let’s say cancer is the di-
agnosis. You should picture, in your mind’s eye, the cancer cells being eaten up by other cells or blowing up like squashing a water balloon. The cancer cells have disappeared. No matter what your complaint, you can use your mind to help you overcome it. The question is, will it work? I can almost guarantee you that if this process didn’t work, professional athletes wouldn’t use it. The great thing about visualization is you can see for yourself if it works. It doesn’t cost you a dime, only a few minutes of your time each day. It doesn’t get much better than that. Don’t expect the process to work after only one day, however. Practice visualization for a month, and then let me know how it is working for you. It doesn’t matter what the focus is of your visualization because everyone has different needs and desires. Now, how does it work? It is so easy to understand. Basically, the brain doesn’t know whether what you saw was real or imagined. Everything that goes through the brain, whether it really happened or not, the brain perceives as reality. That is why it is so important for us to say loving things to ourselves. Most of us know all too well the harsh critic that lives upstairs that is constantly saying, “You should have done this,” or “You shouldn’t have done that.” I suggest we tell the harsh critic to take a hike and treat ourselves in a loving way. It’s about time.
Golden Gazette • March 2015 • Page 19
Interactive Caregiving Can Make a Difference in the Life of a Senior
It is easy to become caught up in the physical tasks of providing care for an elderly loved one. Responding to calls for help, cleaning, providing healthy meals, ensuring medications are taken and perhaps managing the budget of the one you care for - along with tending to the details of your own life - can keep you busy with little time to spare. However, it takes more than task-oriented duties to keep seniors vital, active and healthy. A person’s well-being depends on many factors. People are happier and healthier when they are active, connected and feel they contribute to the world around them. When providing care for an elderly family member, your interaction should be customized to the individual, focusing on the “whole person,” in
order to maintain activity and engagement in life. The engagement of the “whole person” is the philosophy behind Interactive Caregiving - the unique manner in which Comfort Keepers embraces the act of caregiving. Seniors who need care also want to maintain happy, independent living within their own homes. Comfort Keepers’ goal is to interact with clients physically, mentally and socially - in ways designed to enhance their overall health and wellbeing. This philosophy can and should be used within the family caregiving realm, as well. Interactive Caregiving transcends typical caregivercare recipient roles, paving the way for enriching the lives of both. Interactive Caregiving helps make se-
niors happier and healthier, feel needed, loved and valued. Family caregivers should be encouraged to participate in physical activities with elderly loved ones. Walking or riding bikes helps the senior maintain muscles and bones. Playing games, solving puzzles, or just spending time together recounting memories can make the one you care for feel less isolated, more valued, while encouraging healthy mental stimulation. Interacting with - as opposed to simply caring for - may help calm you, overall. Physical activities, good eating habits, and mental stimulation help keep your own body and mind in good health. For more information and tips regarding Interactive Caregiving, visit www.interactivecaregiving.com.
Free lectures that can change your life! Macular Degeneration:
The leading cause of blindness for people over 65:
“Facts & Preventive Measures” ■ March 12 (Thursday) at 5:15 p.m.
Alzheimer’s
The leading cause of dementia for people over 65:
“Facts & Preventive Measures”
■ March 26 (Thursday) at 5:15 p.m. Free lectures include disease fighting snacks. The Family Vision Center 2704 82nd St., Lubbock Dr. Michael J. Dunn, O.D., speaker
Call 806-745-2222 for reservations
Lisa Carson Joins Geriatric Care Managers Group Lisa Carson, RN, BSN, CCM, owner of Comfort Keepers, was recently accepted as a certified member of the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Management. As a member of the organization, Carson adheres to the Standards of Practice and Lisa Carson Code of Ethics developed by the association and its mem- bers to ensure public accountability. Carson, practicing as a Why do people run over a geriatric care manager since string a dozen times with their vacuum cleaner, September 2011, becomes then reach down, pick one of only two people in it up, examine it, and Lubbock to attain this prestithen put it down to give gious certification. the vacuum one more Carson provides guidance chance? and advocacy for families
who are caring for older relatives or disabled adults. With a specialized focus on issues related to aging and elder care, she assists clients with such challenges of aging as finding appropriate housing, in-home care, referrals to medical providers or elder law attorneys, as well as the advocacy and support that provides families peace of mind. “NAPGCM is the gold standard of geriatric care management,” Carson said. “I am proud to be part of an association that defines excellence in my profession and is dedicated to education, collaboration and leadership.”
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Page 20 • March 2015 • Golden Gazette
Maybe I do want an obituary, west Texas style By Charlotte Davidson I love reading obituaries here in west Texas. I just fall into those wonderful little short stories about the people who have lived and worked and loved and brought changes here to the South Plains. Don’t they make me sad? No, they make me proud. I wish I had known these men and women who were so dedicated to their churches, their families, and their work. They were so smart. There were no wimps. Nobody was sitting around waiting for a check. I think about their lives long before welfare, uplink and download, computers, cellphones, X-box, and cable TV, air conditioning, and Facebook. They knew how to read the stars, kill their food, when to plant, and how to find water. Their pocketknives were not weapons; their guns were for game; and their word was law. They could buy a tractor on a handshake. I am always surprised how many in their 90s not only
Charlotte Davidson
went to college, but had master’s degrees. I am not from here. I moved here six years ago. And the Nashville Tennesseean obituaries did not have the same heart as the ones here. And, I am sure that if I were reading the obituaries about old high school buddies, my teachers, or the people who sat next to me at the First Methodist Church in Lawrenceburg, Tennessee – I would feel sadness. But the obituaries here in Lubbock are like little short stories. I love it when they tell you personal things. Things like: “Thelma’s father Fred died
when she was only three. Her mother remarried a kind man who lovingly raised Thelma and her two sisters.” “Virginia enjoyed accompanying her son in his truck on his hauls . . . she was able to visit 27 different states, stick her feet in both oceans, and the Gulf of Mexico.” “She left home in Shanghai . . . to begin a round-theworld cruise on Dec. 1, 1941. Pearl Harbor was bombed and the ship went under radio blackout. Her chaperone left her in Java . . . Amelia continued on alone . . . nine weeks at sea.” What a story. I love it when the story tells you that somebody was married for 75 years – and they remember their grandfather coming in a covered wagon. And I also love it when they say somebody “married the love of his/her life and where they married. Or “her maternal grandfather was a medical doctor who served in the Confederate Army during the Civil War.” “She loved writing poetry and working outside in her
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flower gardens. She could recover a chair or build a house, fix a fence, or milk a cow. She could make drapes for your windows or put a patch on our jeans.” “He was a sports enthusiast and had a hole-in-one in golf and bowled a perfect 300 during league competition.” All I can say is, “What a guy.” I wonder if years from now obituaries will tell you “he bought every iPhone and X-box the day they came out. He was an accomplished texter, and once spent the night in front of a Nike store to get the first pair of Air Jordans. How sad if that happens. Reading west Texas obituaries has gotten me to thinking about my own obituary. My will says that I don’t want an obituary or a memorial service. But, maybe I have changed my mind if it could read something like:
“She loved old classic country music and worked for Opryland. She said some of the best nights of her life were standing backstage at the Grand Ole Opry watching the big red curtain go up with Roy Acuff singing “The Great Speckled Bird.” “She loved to play Ms Pac Man and bought an arcade Ms Pac Man from a trucker bar going out of business and kept it in her garage for 20 years. She got bored when she was 59, went to bartending school, and was a bartender at the Nashville Airport. “Charlotte loved anything Mexican and painted the walls of her house orange and gold. And she always drove a straight shift car.” Yep, I might just decide to have an obituary if it can be a west Texas obituary -- one that doesn’t just tell who I leave, but what I loved.
Graphic Designer/ Artist to Speak at New Neighbors, March 13 Graphic designer and mixed media artist Pat Maines will speak at the New Neighbors Club luncheon at 10:30 a.m. March 13 at the Lubbock Women’s Club, 2020 Broadway. Pat is well-known for her logo designs for such entities as Buddy Holly Center, Ballet Lubbock, Bernie Sewing Studio and others. Also, she is responsible for all print matter for the Texas Tech Lecture & Performance Series. In her presentation, she
will introduce more than 100 one-inch to one-foot scale dwellings along with the treasures with which she puts them together. You do not need to be new to the Lubbock or a member to attend this event. Cost for the luncheon is $14, and reservations are required. For more information about the luncheon or club activities, contact Mary Valentini at 799-4450 or email: newneighbors@ymail.com.
Golden Gazette • March 2015 • Page 21
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Page 22 • March 2015 • Golden Gazette
Social Security and Survivor Benefits Depend on the Situation By Peter Laverty Over the past 16 years, someone has stopped by or called Seniors are Special monthly asking about Social Security Survivor Benefits. Having no formal training in Social Security policies, I referred them to our local Social Security office, and let it go at that. However, a very dear friend stopped by my office informing me that her husband had recently died. She filled me in on the trials she was going through and asked me to explain Social Security Survivor Benefits. This time, I knew having her call the Social Security office would not do. With “Service is our Passion” signs all over my office, and her, practically in tears, I knew I had to offer her more. “Let me do some checking,” I told her, and off I went on a governmental adventure. With her questions in hand, I attended a Social Security, “train the trainer” seminar. Next, I visited our Lubbock Social Security office, and then traversed the Web and came up with some simple rules, advice, and answers to her questions. This does not make me an expert on Social Security, and if you call, I will still refer you to our local Social Security office. My first bit of information is Social Security and Medicare are two completely different governmental programs often confused for one another. Both come with different rules, policies, dates,
procedures and governmental departments. A quick way to remember which one you are trying to reach is remember Social Security is about giving you money, and Medicare is about taking your money. What is the Social Security survivor benefit? When a spouse dies, the survivor is entitled to receive the greater of his or her Social Security benefit. This would include any cost-ofliving increases earned along the way. An important bit of information I found was if the higher-earning spouse delayed filing until the full retirement age or beyond, then the surviving spouse’s lifetime benefits would increase substantially. Lost already? Let me try to explain. You have options when to start drawing your Social Security benefits. Currently, the full retirement age is 66. You can start taking your monthly benefits as early as 62 or delay them up to age 70. The longer you wait, the greater the monthly benefit. Take it earlier, and it is the reverse. Let’s assume you have enough credits to qualify for benefits, and your current monthly earning rate at full retirement (66) would be $1,278. If you or your spouse started drawing Social Security benefit at age 62, the monthly benefit would be reduced to $882. That is because you started at an earlier date than your full
retirement age (66). If you waited until age 70, your monthly benefit would be increased to $1,594. That is a potential swing of $712 per month, worth talking about when you look at when to start drawing your benefits. Maximizing the survivor benefit is especially important for women. Men not only tend to be the higher wage earners but also tend to die at an earlier age than women do. In many cases, a delayed filing by a man can be an excellent way to boost a women’s retirement income. At what age should you apply for a survivor benefit? You can receive your full survivor benefits once you reach your full retirement age (now typically 66). You can receive survivor benefits earlier, as young as age 60, but the benefit would be reduced. Listed below are examples of monthly benefit payments: A widow or widower of full retirement age or older -100% of the benefits amount Widow or widower, age 60 to full retirement age -71½ to 99% Disabled widow or widower, age 50 through 59 -- 71½% Widow or widower, any age, caring for a child under age 16 -- 75% Percentages for a surviving divorced spouse would be the same as above. There also may be a special onetime lump-sum death payment. Note: A widow(er) can-
not receive the late spouse’s benefit if the spouse’s benefit was tied to a spouse from an earlier marriage. How to apply for a survivor benefit? If you were already receiving a spousal benefit, report the spouse’s death to the Social Security Administration, and they will change your payments to survivor’s benefits. You will need to do that in person. They do not let you apply by phone or over the Internet. If you are receiving benefits based on your own work, check with Social Security. You might be eligible for higher survivor benefits; this will depend on your spouse’s work record. Go to the Lubbock Social Security office and complete an application to switch to survivor’s benefits, and supply them with an original or certified copy of the death. You can file for spousal or survivor benefits from a divorced spouse in certain instances. Social Security’s rules require that you be currently single, and had been married to your ex at least 10 years; at least 62 years old, which is the minimum Social Security eligibility age; and not already receiving a benefit greater than the divorced spouse’s benefit. You can file for spousal benefits even if your ex is not receiving his or her own benefits – so long as your divorce has been final for two years. Eligibility for an ex’s benefit is lost if you remarry. You cannot file for ben-
efits on your new spouse’s earning record until you’ve been married to that person at least one year. Filing for a divorced spouse benefit is kept completely private. It is a transaction between you and the Social Security Administration. The Social Security Administration will never report this to your spouse. No one will know you have made an inquiry – or filed for benefits – on his or her record. You will need to provide evidence of your marriage in person to your local Social Security office with paperwork in hand. Be prepared to show your birth certificate; proof of U.S. citizenship; your information from your tax returns for the last year; your final divorce decree; and your marriage certificate. How this relates to a married same-sex couple depends on where they live. The Social Security Administration has made changes to the way it processes spousal and survivor claims for benefits in states recognizing same-sex marriage. Texas does not recognize same-sex marriage, so it is does not affect those living in Texas. However, survivor benefits are available if you live in our neighbor states of New Mexico and Oklahoma that do recognize same-sex marriage. If you have additional questions, visit the local Social Security office at 5826 16th St. or call the toll-free number 1-866-467-0460, or go online at www.ssa.gov.
Golden Gazette • March 2015 • Page 23
Texas Tech’s Midnight Matador Passes Away Midnight Matador, Texas Tech University’s longestserving horse, died Feb. 3 due to complications from colic surgery. He was the 13th horse to ride for Texas Tech’s Masked Rider program and served for 11 seasons. The only Masked Rider horse to come close in length of service is Happy IVII, who served an eight-year term from 1980-1987. Stephanie Rhode is Tech’s Spirit Program director. “The entire Tech Spirit Program mourns the passing of Midnight Matador,” she said. “He lived almost his entire life in service to our university inspiring hundreds of thousands of fans during his tenure as the Masked Rider When someone throws mud on you, don’t try to brush it off. Let it dry, and it will fall off. I learned this from my mother. I came in from school angry one day. Mother asked what was disturbing me. I told her someone had said something bad about me, and I planned to break his nose the next day. Her response was classic. She said, “Son, if someone throws mud at you, do not ever try to brush it off. You will only rub the mud into the fabric. Just let it dry, and it will fall off.” My mother was right. When we dignify hurtful words directed at us with defensive words and verbal retaliation, we cause the words to be more memorable. If we let them go, they will soon be forgotten. The truth is most people ordinarily spend little time thinking about us.
Midnight Matador, the longest-serving mascot in the Texas Tech Masked Rider program’s history, died Feb. 3. He was honored in November 2012 at a football game. He served for 10 years. The horse is pictured with all the riders who have served during Midnight Matador’s term.
horse. He devoted himself to our university with such loyalty, and he leaves a legacy that will be difficult for any horse to surpass.” Selected for the Masked Rider program in 2002 at the age of three, Midnight Matador carried 11 riders, including Jessica Melvin, 2002-2003; Ben Holland, 2003-2004; Stacy Stockard, 2004-2005 Justin Burgin, 2005-2006; Amy Bell, 2006-2007; Kevin
Burns, 2007-2008; Ashley Hartzog, 2008-2009; Brianne Aucutt Hight, 2009-2010; Christi Chadwell, 2010-2011; Bradley Skinner, 2011-2012; Ashley Wenzel, 2012-2013. Midnight Matador traveled more than 100,000 miles to more than 1,500 university and community appearances, including a trip back to the Gator Bowl in 2007, where Joe Kirk Fulton made the first appearance as the Masked Rider in 1954.
At 13 years old, Midnight Matador retired from his Masked Rider duties in 2013 due to his age, safety, and the normal wear and tear on a horse. When his retirement was announced, Texas Tech honored him during the Texas Tech vs. Texas football game at Jones AT&T Stadium. The Masked Rider advisory committee then selected former Masked Rider Stacy Stockard, as Midnight Matador’s
primary care owner, where he lived out the remainder of his days in Lubbock. Stockard served as the Masked Rider during the 2004-2005 season. She graduated from Texas Tech in 2005 with a bachelor’s degree in agricultural communications. She then earned her master’s degree in agricultural education in 2006, and graduated from the Texas Tech School of Law in 2009. Stockard is the marketing coordinator for Texas Tech’s Transportation and Parking Services. Stockard says Midnight Matador was treated special with such love and care. “He was the bright spot in every day for me,” she said. “He was such a blessing to me, and I’m just so thankful for having these years with him. He had world-class surgeons and the best recovery specialists in the business. He had the best care possible, and he was surrounded by such love every day in his retirement.”
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Page 24 • March 2015 • Golden Gazette
Speaking a Native Plant Language Began as a Hobby By Adeline Fox Native plant seeds from South Carolina are not native plant seeds to Canyon, Texas. Realizing that, Neal Hinders and his wife wanted to find native plant varieties that would flourish in the Texas Panhandle. Walking through Canyon, Texas, one spring day, they noticed an Engelmann Daisy that was living with littleto-no care in a parking lot. That was the kind of native plant they needed, and that’s how Canyon’s Edge Plants began. Canyon’s Edge Plants began as a hobby for Hinders in 1989. He was a stay-at-home father who had only a few hours in the evening to devote to trial-and-error gardening experiments in his backyard. Once he realized the potential niche for the native plant market, he acquired a license from the Texas Department of Agriculture and opened up shop.
“I do sell a variety of native and xeric plants, but I like to see the results of a plant doing well before I sell it to somebody,” Hinders said. Both knowledgeable and curious customers flock to the native plant nursery. Now that the location has moved to downtown Canyon, Hinders said there are even more customer possibilities. “My main customers are local master gardeners who know their plants,” Hinders said, “but we hope to attract a variety of other customers now that we have moved to a more convenient location in downtown Canyon.” As potential customers drive through the square, they’ll get to see demonstration gardens inside and outside of the plant nursery walls. In addition to visual demonstrations, Neal gives several presentations regarding xeriscape and native plants at various events. Their website (canyonsedgeplants. com) has a wide range of information
Neal Hinders and his wife have developed a business from growing plants native to the Canyon, Texas, area. Their website has information about planting and managing native plant species that grow well and save on water.
about planting and managing native plant species. He plans to produce a series of instructional videos for the website in the near future.
Hinders believes the awareness of native landscaping benefits will increase as industries and other community leaders work to promote the idea of water wise plants. “We all need to get on board and figure out how to make saving water work,” Hinders said. “When people can see an attractive and cost-effective yard, they’ll start believing in the benefits of native and xeric landscaping.” -- Used with permission from High Plains Underground Water District.
What hair color do they put on the driver’s licenses of bald men? Why does Superman stop bullets with his chest, but ducks when you throw a revolver at him? Why do people constantly return to the refrigerator with hopes that something new to eat will have materialized? Is it true that you never really learn to swear until you learn to drive?