MYMATURETIMES MARCH 2012 PAGE 2

Social Security Column

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

RETIREMENT
Question: How long do I need to work to become eligible for retirement benefits? Answer: Everyone born in 1929 or later needs 40 Social Security credits to be eligible for retirement benefits. You can earn up to four credits per year, so you will need at least 10 years to become eligible for retirement benefits. During your working years, earnings covered by Social Security are posted to your Social Security record. You earn credits based on those earnings. If you become disabled or die before age 62, the number of credits needed depends on your age at the time you die or become disabled. Learn more at www.socialsecurity.gov. Question: I have children at home and I plan to retire next fall. Will my children be eligible for monthly Social Security payments after I retire? Answer: A child (biological, legally adopted, or dependent stepchild or grandchild) may potentially be eligible. Monthly Social Security payments may be made to your children if they are: Unmarried and under age 18, Age 19 if still in high school, or Age 18 or over, who became severely disabled before age 22 and continue to be disabled. For more information, read Benefits For Children at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10085.html.

BODY OF KNOWLEDGE
By Scott LaFee The adrenal glands, which produce and release stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, reside directly above the kidneys and change in size throughout life. In the seventh month of a fetus' development, the glands are roughly the same size as the kidneys. At birth, they have shrunk slightly, a reduction in size that will progress for the rest of the person's life. By old age, the glands are often so small as to be almost invisible.

Bingo and La Loteria both beloved games in the U.S. and Mexico
By Joe Olvera ,2012

MYMATURETIMES MARCH 2012 PAGE 3

Bingo versus Loteria which is the most addictive? The answer, of course, must come from people who have been there, people who allow dinners to get cold or uncooked because the game calls. Almost everyone is familiar with Bingo games and millions of people have played it at one time or another, whether in a Bingo Hall or whether at home with friends and family. Loteria, or lottery, is a similarly popular game, albeit, it is played mostly at home among friends and family. The stakes in Loteria are much smaller than in Bingo a game that has even infiltrated casinos in Las Vegas and other places. Although some Bingo games are created to benefit churches or charities, thats not always the case. Yet, they keep coming. Lula Gonzalez said she became addicted to Bingo the first time she went with a friend of hers. I would save the money that I had for doing laundry, Gonzalez said. I would do my laundry by hand just so that I could save that money so that I could play Bingo. It does become

teach children spelling, animal names and multiplication tables. The modern game of Bingo was brought to America by Hugh J. Ward in the early 1920s. He copyrighted the name Bingo and authored the rule book in 1933. In the U.S., the game is primarily staged by churches or charity organizations. Their legality and stakes vary from state to state. addictive, but, its fun. Its not addictive in the sense that I would do something illegal just to get the money, but, I loved it and I still do. It wasnt that expensive, about $16 for a packet where you could play several games. One time I won $500. Man that was so much money that there was no way I would stop playing. Gonzalez said she used to play at a Bingo hall on Lee Trevino and Pellicano a site that no longer exists, but is, instead a dance hall. The game of Bingo can be traced back to a lottery game called Il Giuoco del Lotto dItalia. It was first played in Italy in 1530. In the 19th Century Bingo was used in Germany for educational purposes to The game of Loteria, similarly, originated in Italy in the 1400s. It was brought to Mexico in 1769 where it rapidly became a very popular game among the general populace, although, at the outset, the game was mostly played by the upper classes. In the U.S., the game was made by Don Clemente, Inc. in

1887 when Clemente Jacques started to produce the cards. Today, its primarily played in Mexico and in other Spanish-speaking countries. Although its also popular in the United States, it pales in comparison to Bingo. Cuca Marquez, however, still remembers the great times she had playing the game in her small village of Meoqui in Southern Chihuahua. I would do anything to play Loteria, which I used to play everyday, Marquez said. It was a game mainly played by women because either the husbands werent interested, or they were working. Some women would be playing the game and nursing their children at the same time. Nobody cared. Loteria is a Mexican game of chance. Similar to Bingo, but using images on a deck of cards instead of numbers on ping-pong balls. Each card contains an image, such as El Musico, or El Soldado, El Borracho, La Palma and other such Mexicanbased images. Cont.p.6

MYMATURETIMES MARCH 2012 PAGE 4

Whats the Link Between Gum Disease and Heart Health?

M E R I D I A N

Healthy gums, healthy heart? Some

experts agree that the key to overall good health starts in your mouth, and they are not referring simply to your pearly whites. Good dental hygiene has long been touted as paramount in maintaining good health. Dentists recommend brushing teeth at least 2 if not 3 times a day and a strict regimen of flossing daily, as well. On the surface, this is understandable. No one wants to be caught with food between their teeth or bad breath. However, beneath the cosmetic surface lie the most important reasons for maintaining a healthy mouth. While some experts debate whether there is a direct link between gum disease and heart disease many agree the two have enough in common to warrant attention and that problems in the mouth can be indicative of and even contribute to underlying health issues in the rest of the body. The mouth is a source of bacteria, which can cause health concerns throughout the body under some circumstances.

Medical/Ostomy Supply, Inc.

mouth to enter the blood stream. This can lead to infection in other parts of the body, which is especially problematic if your immune system is weak or you have existing heart valve issues.

disease have also been found in plaque that clogs arteries, and also in vessels experiencing arteriosclerosis.

915-351-2525
We specialize in carrying the following products for:
Ambulatory Aids To Daily Living Bath Safety Infusion/iv Supplies Ostomy Needles/Syringes Orthopedic/Soft Goods Incontinence Patient Care Enteral/Nutritional Home Diagnostic Personal Protection/Safety Professional Diagnostics Seating/Cushions Tracheostomy Care Wheelchairs/Accessories Wound Care Skin Care Urological HOURS OF OPERATION Monday thru Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Saturday 8:00 am - 3:00 pm

with gum disease may be more likely to experience strokes.

Inflammation found in gum disease increases the amount of protein in the body and may indicate inflammation in other areas of the body. These particular proteins are those used to measure a persons risk for heart attack. When these protein levels rise, they could indicate a persons increased probability of a heart attack. While the connection between gum disease and heart problems is not definitive and continues to be explored, experts agree that the same bacteria and inflammation found in gum disease are also found within underlying heart conditions. All agree that it is important for people of all ages to practice good oral hygiene. Seniors, who as they age become more at risk for developing heart problems and other arterial conditions, should take particular care of their mouths and gums. Continues on page 6

Those

Periodontitis may be indicative of cardiovascular disease (stroke, blocked arteries, heart disease), possibly associated with oral bacteria and chronic inflammation periodontitis causes. People who have diabetes already have compromised immune systems unable to adequately fight infection. Elevated sugar levels may increase risks of frequent and serious infections in the mouth, damaging gums and bones and causing tooth loss. Osteoporosis may be linked to periodontal bone and tooth loss. Losing teeth before the age of 35 years could possibly be a risk factor for Alzheimers disease. Bacteria found in gum

Hablamos Espaol!

1815 Montana Ave.

(located at the Montana Shopping Village strip mall)

El Paso, TX. 79902

info@meridianmedicalsupply.com Fax: 915-351-1970

In short, research and other medical studies have shown: Cuts in the gums can
allow bacteria that gather in the

MYMATURETIMES MARCH 2012 PAGE 5

COMFORT KEEPERS OF EL PASO NAMES CAREGIVER OF THE YEAR

El Paso, (February 7, 2012) Sandi Smith, President of Comfort Keepers of El Paso, recently announced Margaret Tate as Caregiver of the Year 2011. We are very proud to have Margaret as part of our Caregiving Team. She exemplifies the care and compassion ing for a loved one and Margaret provides that care daily to families in El Paso allowing them to remain independent and at ease in the comfort of their own home.

Comfort Keepers provides a coveted award and consider About Comfort Keepers in-home services on an a leading franhourly, daily or weekly myself to work with Comfort Keepers isin-home care marchise network in the basis with tailored packket for senior and other adults needing an organization that has sen- care. Since its founding in 1998, the ages customized to an innetwork has grown to more than 600 dividuals needs. iors best interests at heart, franchised locations around the world Packages include comby staying true to the founders' goal of panionship, meal preparasaid Margaret Tate. providing quality, caring in-home care services that allow clients the opportution, light housekeeping, nity to age in place. In August of 2009, the brand grocery shopping, incidental transour Caregivers provide our clients was strengthened even further by the purchase of each and every day, said Sandi portation, laundry, and more. the franchisor, CK Franchising, Inc., by Sodexo, one of the world's leading food and facilities Mrs. Tate has been a Caregiver with Smith. We realize the enormous management services companies and the global stress and mixture of emotions that Comfort Keepers of El Paso since leader in the health care and seniors markets.infamilies face when it comes to car2009. . formation, visit www.comfortkeepers.com.

I am honored to receive such

fortunate

Margaret Tate

MYMATURETIMES MARCH 2012 PAGE 6

Yoga Classes at Pat ORourke Recreation Center

Noon on Mondays and Wednesdays El Paso, Texas The City of El Paso Parks and Recreation Department will host a Yoga Class at the Pat ORourke Recreation Center, 901 N. Virginia St. on Mondays and Wednesdays. The class is $21 per person and seniors (60 years of age and older) get a 50% discount on this class and any other fee based class offered by the department. You can register in person or at the El Paso Parks and Recreation web site at www.elpasotexas.gov/parks.

Gum Disease and Heart Health?..

Continued from page 4.....Discuss with them common links between gum disease and heart problems. Encourage regular dental check ups for early detection of gum disease and seek further medical evaluation if gum disease is found. Explain how following an easy routine of brushing twice and flossing at least once daily can prevent complications such as tooth loss, periodontal disease, infection and more. Remind them to replace toothbrushes every three months. Following these simple steps can make a big difference in the quality of a seniors overall health. References:
Mayo Clinic. Oral health: a window to your overall health. Retrieved on December 10, 2011 from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/dental/D E00001. Doheny, Kathleen. Healthy teeth, healthy heart? Retrieved on December 11, 2011 from http://www.webmd.com/oralhealth/features/healthy-teeth-healthy-heart. Johns Hopkins Health Alert (2011). Gum disease and heart disease: whats the link? Retrieved on December 11, 2011 from http://www.johnshopkinshealthalerts.com/al erts/heart_health/gum-disease_58431.html?ET=johnshopkins:e63915:1259471a :&st=email&s=EHH_111014_001.

Information (915) 533-1611

El Paso Parks and Recreation Line Dance Workshop

at Father Martinez Senior Center on March 24, 2012
El Paso, Texas - The City of El Paso Parks and Recreation Department will host a Line Dancing workshop at 9:00 a.m. on March 24, 2012 at the Father Martinez Senior Center, 9311 Alameda Ave. Registration fee is $8 per person with the workshop lasting four hours from 9:00 a.m. 1:00 p.m. The coed workshop will focus on beginner and intermediate line dances while learning three popular line dances. A focus of the workshop will also be on line dancing skills, physical fitness and social interaction. Register at any Recreation or Senior Center in person or online with ActiveNet at www.elpasotexas.gov/parks . Information Brenda Romero (915) 544-0753 Yoli Macias (915) 873-5374

Bingo and La Loteria...

Continued from page 3 Sometimes if a person didnt have money, she would use an egg to buy two cards for one game, Marquez said. Or she could buy a soda pop on credit from the village store and use that. The game was so addictive that some women would forget to make supper for their working husbands. The stakes werent too high, about 20 pesos for the winner. But, in our small village that could often purchase meat to put on the dinner table. Besides, it was relaxing and a lot of fun. Marquez remembers that some callers would make rhymes instead of actually naming the cards, such as: *El Diablito portate bien cuatito, si no te lleva el coloradito; *La Sandia la barriga que Juan tenia, era empacho de sandia; *El Camaron camaron durmiente se lo lleva la corriente; *El Sol la cobija de los pobres.

How Hypertension Affects Memory

Oops, you did it
againforgot someones phone number, could not remember what you had for lunch yesterday, or for a moment maybe you were not able to recall your neighbors name. Simple signs, you chuckle to yourself, of growing older. You might even laugh out loud with family and friends about losing your memory now that you are enjoying your senior years. After all, some degree of short-term memory loss is a sign of aging. Right? Well, actually you could be wrong. Studies regarding memory loss in seniors indicate that instead of being a sign of simply aging, short-term memory loss could be a symptom of the effects of hypertension or high blood pressure. Hypertension clots or other blockage prevent oxygen from reaching cells in the brain responsible for memory, those cells die, inhibiting that function. There are wellknown conditions caused by hypertension such as stroke, aneurysm, heart and coronary artery disease. While the effects of these conditions can contribute to complications of decreased blood flow throughout the body, vital brain cell loss can occur without your enduring a stroke or another critical health event. The crucial connection that needs to be acknowledged here is that when brain cells governing memory die due to lack of blood flow regardless of the cause the result is potential damage to your brain. Research indicates this loss of blood flow can cause other diseases to occur. Vascular dementia, one cause of dementia, may very well be caused by decreased or lack of blood flow to the brain. In fact, studies indicate that people who have hypertension in their middle-aged years are at increased risk for developing dementia as they age. Mild cognitive impairment, the shift in memory and comprehension that begins in the elderly and is also typical of complications of Alzheimers, can also be caused by the effects of arterial damage prohibiting blood flow.

MYMATURETIMES MARCH 2012 PAGE 7

Hypertension often goes

undiagnosed for years, especially in people who do not have regular medical check ups. Memory loss due to hypertension alone is caused by detrimental elements that progress over time, decreasing or halting blood flow to parts of the brain that are critical to its proper function. Brain cells can slowly die due to lack of blood flow, causing a person to experience subtle changes in memory and other cognitive functions. For this reason, any changes in memory that occur as you or your senior family member transition into the golden years should not be ignored.

High blood pressure can be detected by a simple blood pressure check, which can often
be performed at machines now available in local drug stores. If you suspect you or the senior loved one in your life may be at risk, it is well worth a trip to find out. Keep in mind, however, that while a trip to the store is more convenient than a visit to the doctor, it is still important to seek medical advice for proper diagnosis and treatment.

causes damage to blood vessels, resulting in plaque and other tissue buildup, which can break free and move with blood flow only to get trapped in smaller vessels. This blockage can cause
clots that prevent blood filled with oxygen and nutrients from traveling to the area of the body it supplies. If

MYMATURETIMES MARCH 2012 PAGE 8

Top 10 Foods for a Healthy Heart

The concept that particular foods promote healthier hearts is not new. It is a fact that a well-balanced nutritional diet contributes to good health throughout a lifetime. For many people, the risk of diseases such as Type II diabetes, high cholesterol, heart disease and coronary artery issues may be reduced by consuming healthy diets. While it is important to begin healthy eating habits early in life, it can be just as vital to good health when healthy eating practices are followed in later years. The effects of some illnesses can be controlled and perhaps averted by practicing good nutritional habits. number one choice because they contain high levels of antioxidants, other berries such as raspberries, strawberries and even red grapes are beneficial. Add a handful of berries to your morning cereal, or munch on grapes for a healthy snack. reduce risk of heart disease and promotes lower cholesterol levels.

7. Beans and lentils: Packed with protein, beans

and lentils also contain levels of magnesium, iron and potassium that can support muscle and organ function, blood flow, and healthy bones. Choices of beans include chickpeas, kidney beans and black beans, all of which can be added to salads or soups. Red and green lentils are also excellent choices to add in soups.

8. Fruits and vegetables: Think color. Dark

leafy green, deep reds, yellows and oranges found in spinach, cooked tomatoes, squash and oranges are some choices. Daily intake of these foods has been linked to lower blood pressure, reduced risk of heart disease, and possible decreased risk of some cancers, along with lowered risk of eye diseases and digestive issues.

Eating well is especially important for seniors who become more susceptible over time
to the effects from aging and symptoms of illnesses that afflict the elderly. Seniors often battle loss of appetite, challenges in cooking healthy foods for one, and other health-related obstacles. These challenges affect their overall health and wellbeing which allows them to continue living independent lives in their own homes. For these reasons, it is critical seniors consume healthy foods and snacks that promote good health. A doctor should be consulted before making any diet changes, With these challenges in mind, Comfort Keepers has researched what experts advise are the top 10 best foods for health. Many of these foods take little or no time to prepare and can be added to existing diets to add nutritional components that promote better heart health.

2. Fish: Salmon, mackerel and tuna are good

sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Experts advise having fish at least twice a week for maximum benefits.

9. Yogurt: Yogurt containing live and active cultures is considered a probiotic by scientists. Research shows probiotics are connected with lowering some risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

3. Whole grains: Choose breads, cereals, oatmeal, pasta and even snack crackers made of whole grains to reduce risk of heart disease and other chronic diseases.

10. Tea and coffee: Flavonoids found in both

may reduce heart disease. Studies found that those who drink 3-6 cups of green and black tea or 2-4 cups of coffee a day are at lower risk for heart disease. However, go easy on the sugar added to these beverages to avoid complications sugar may cause! Good heart health does not depend on food alone. Physical exercise, not smoking and other factors are crucial to maintain healthy heart function. Being aware of bodily changes during the aging process plays a large part in maintaining overall good health. Seniors should also visit their doctors regularly to ensure early detection of any issue that may involve the heart.

4. Soy: Daily servings of soybeans like edamame,

tofu, soy milk and yogurt are excellent sources of soy protein, linked to reduced risks of cardiovascular diseases, weight loss, and some types of cancers.

1. Berries and grapes: While blueberries are a

5. Nuts: Almonds, walnuts and pecans as daily

snacks can reduce the risk of blood clots and may facilitate healthy arterial lining.

6. Olive oil: Olive oil contains a healthy type of fat that, when consumed in moderation, may help

MYMATURETIMES MARCH 2012 PAGE 9

By: Doppler Dave Speelman

Outlook for Spring

Our winter started off on the colder side but has certainly warmed up nicely for most of January and February - much nicer than last year. The latest forecast from the Climate Prediction Center shows our possible forecast for the next several months - all the way through spring. The computer models below show that we have a double-dose of bad news. Our temperatures are expected to remain above normal. In fact, the model is particularly confident that temps will be rather warm (graphic to the right). Precipitation appears to be rather bleak as well across much of the southwest including El Paso. . What the long range models do not forecast is our wind. But, rest assured, expect those windy and dusty days at least the next couple of months.

Weather Trivia
Weve had 3.2 inches of snowfall so far this year. How many inches of snow does El Paso typically receive on an annual basis?

A. B. C. D.

1 4 6 9
Answer: C 6 inches of snow.

Temperature Outlook for Next Three Months

Note:
A = Above normal B = Below normal EC = Equal Chance (50/50)

Precipitation Outlook for the Next Three Months Doppler" Dave Speelman is the chief meteorologist at KVIA-TV in El Paso. You can watch his forecasts at 4, 5, 6 and 10 pm on ABC-7 (channel 6 cable). If you would like Doppler Dave to address (explain) any weather issues you can email him at Dopplerdave@kvia.com.

MYMATURETIMES MARCH 2012 PAGE 10

Out & About

noRThEAST/ CEnTRAl

Calendar of upcoming events for El Paso/ Southern New Mexico are from March 2012
If you want your upcoming event listed in SPOTLIGHTS Out & About section, please send all your relevant data by e-mail to: editorial@spotlightepnews.com

El Paso Santos The team, part of the new Pecos Soccer League,

MISSIon VAllEY
Dokken The heavy metal band performs Friday, March 2, at Speaking Rock Entertainment Center, 122 S. Old Pueblo Road. Ages 18 and older welcome.. Information: 860-7777 or speakingrockentertainment.com.

will play ots inaugural season home game at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 3, at Cohen Stadium, 9700 Gateway North. Tickets: $5 (ages 6 and younger free). Information/tickets: 755-2000, (575) 680-2212 or PecosSoccer.com.

Charleys Aunt EPCC Main Stage Theater presents the classic

British farce by Brandon Thomas 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday,March 1-10, at the EPCC Transmountain Campus Forum Theatre. Directed by Hector Serrano. Special performance for the hearing impaired March 9. Tickets are $10 ($5 students, seniors and military). Information: 831-5056 or 831-3205. Two basic elements of comedy, mistaken identity and reversal of the sexes are at the core of this hilarious masterpiece. Laughs are guaranteed as young men in an all-boys college cook up a scheme to entertain their girlfriends with unexpected results. The Games will last through April 28, 2012 with a variety of sporting events. Registration is currently being taken and the fee is: $15 $5 $45 2 events only plus a T-Shirt for each additional event maximum fee for all events

Colors of Spring 2012 El Paso Art Associations annual spring

show and sale is March 2-17 at The Crossland Gallery, 500 W. Paisano (in the Art Junction of El Paso), featuring works by both new and established EPAA members. Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays. Admission is free. Information: 534-7377 or elpasoartassociation.com. Opening reception is 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, March 2.

Events include bowling, tennis, huachas, cycling, swimming, table tennis, 5k and 10k run, golf, race walk, volleyball, basketball and Track and Field events. Participants must be 50 years old and over to compete in the games. A torch run and many other activities will comprise the day of excitement for senior participants. ages 50 and over. Sponsors of the Senior Games are Bravo Health and Urgent Care Home Health Inc Registration and event information is also available at the El Paso Parks and Recreation website, www.elpasotexas.gov/parks. Information (915) 544-0753 The El Paso Senior Games sponsored by Bravo Health and Urgent Care Home Health Inc.

Concordia ghost tour Concordia Heritage Association and Paso

Del Norte Paranormal Society hosts its monthly ghost tour of the historic Concordia Cemetery 9 to 11 p.m. Saturday, March 3. Visit the haunted sites where people have reported seeing a Lady in White, and other ghostly apparitions. Tours start under the big tree near the Yandell Street entrance at 8:30 p.m. Ages 13 and older welcome. Cost: $10 per person donation. Reservations required as space is limited. Information: 3731513 or help@ghosts915.com.

EASTSIdE
Walk For Literacy Dr. Nixon Elementary Schools PTA hosts its
inaugural 5K race and 1 mile fun run/walk benefiting the schools literacy development is 8 a.m. Sunday, March 4, at the school, 11141 Loma Roja. Trophies for top three male and female runners and for the largest team and military team. Metals to top three male and female in age groups 9 and younger. First 200 runners receive t-shirt. Cost: $20 after March 2 (team discount for 10 persons or more is $5 per person. Information: 274-5222 Pre-race packet pick up is noon to 6 p.m. Saturday, March 3, at Up and Running, 1475 George Dieter. Race day registration and packet pickup is 7 to 7:45 a.m.

Empower Yourself! Make It Happen The third biennial

Release Your Potential El Paso Conference for Women is 6 p.m. Friday and 7:30 to 4 p.m. Saturday, March 2-3, at the Centennial Club at Biggs Airfield in Fort Bliss, hosted by El Paso First Lady Tram Cook and Mayor John Cook. The event features, seminars, trainings and forums for area women. Cost: $50 (includes Friday banquet, meals and conference). Student/military/senior tickets: $30. Information: 566-4066 or elpasoconferenceforwomen.com.

MYMATURETIMES MARCH 2012 PAGE 11

EASTSIdE
Hanks Jazz Festival The festival runs all day March 1-3, in the
Hanks High School auditorium, 2100 Lee Trevino Regional middle and high school students will perform throughout the festival, with a final performance on Saturday. Details to be announced. Information: 4349700 or hanksband.com.

Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam

The U.S. Hot Rod Monster Jam is 7 p.m. Saturday, and 2 p.m. Sunday, March 3-4, at Sun Bowl Stadium. Tickets: $10 (Ticketmaster). Information: monsterjam.com. USHRA Monster Trucks include Grave Digger, Tasmanian Devil, El Toro Loco and others.

Bassett Place The mall at 6101 Gateway West celebrates its 50th
anniversary this year. Information: 772-7479 or bassettplacemall.com. A classic car show is Friday through Sunday, March 2-4, with cars of the 50s, 60s and 70s inside the mall, as well as new cars from neighboring care dealers. Customers may vote on their favorite. The Fox Juke Box Mikey Guerrero will broadcast live from Bassett to celebrate it 50th anniversary noon to 6 p.m., Sunday, March 4, with appearance by the remaining members of The Bobby Fuller Four.

Massing of the Colors More than 80 veterans, school and civic

organizations will participate in the 37th annual event at 2 p.m. Saturday,March 3, at St. Raphael Church, 2301 Zanzibar, sponsored by the El Paso Chapter of the Military Order of the World Wars. Participating units are from Fort Bliss, JROTC, law enforcement and fire department, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts and more. Admission is free and the public is welcome. Information: 821-4423 or 755-4038.

WESTSIdE/doWnToWn
Sunland Park Racetrack & Casino The 2011-2012 live
horse racing season runs through April 17. Race days are Tuesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. First post is 12:25 p.m. each race day. General admission is free to the track and casino. Turf Club seating is $7. Information: (575) 874-5200 or sunland-park.com.

Preschoolers, Private Parts and Playmates Paso

del Norte Association for the Education of Young Children host a seminar with Seattle parenting and sexual health expert Amy Lang, The seminar will focus on whats OK and when to worry concerning young children and their bodies, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, March 2, at Paso Del Norte Child Development Center, 1101 Schuster. Admission is free, but $5 donation requested. Information: Bea Vargas, 544-8484, ext. 173.

Milagro Gala Actress America Ferrera is featured guest speaker

at El Paso Childrens Hospitals 2012 benefit gala 6 to 10 p.m. Friday,March 2, at El Paso Convention Center. Proceeds from the event benefit sick and injured children at El Paso Childrens Hospital Tickets: $150 ($1,500 table for 10). Information/reservations: 521-7229, ext. 3083

MYMATURETIMES MARCH 2012 PAGE 12

WESTSIdE/doWnToWn
Couture Challenge The El Paso Designs Couture Challenge
Fashion Show in anticipation of El Paso Fashion Week is 8 p.m. to midnight Friday, March 2, at NV Ultra Lounge, 200 Anthony, featuring fashions by local designers. Tickets: $10; available at Hommework, 2603 N. Stanton. Information: 999-1781 or elpasofashionweek.com.

SoUThERn nEW MExICo

Rag Rug Festival The annual festival celebrating the rag rug craft is 10
a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, March 3-4, at the New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum, 4100 Dripping Springs Road, Las Cruces. The New Mexico Womens Foundation-sponsored event features rag rugs, hand-woven items, jewelry, fashions, fabrics and handmade crafts made by nearly 100 New Mexico women artisans. Admission is free. Information: (505) 983-6155, frieda@nmwf.org or nmwf.org.

Haunted Hotel lock in El Paso Ghost Tours will host an

overnight lock-in investigation and paranormal workshop at the historic Gardner Hotel and other haunted sites beginning Saturday, March 3. Space is limited to 20 participants (10 rooms available). Information on times/cost: elpasoghosttours.com. In the 1930s, the notorious gangster John Dillinger stayed at the Gardner Hotel just before his capture in Tucson. Many people have experienced paranormal activity in this hotel. Dillingers room will be investigated and his is kept at the hotel. A full investigation of the historical De Soto Hotel, considered El Pasos most haunted hotel, is also planned, with access to private areas not available in other tours.

We are One Dance One Drum The 6th annual student dance and
drumming showcase featuring Susan Jewell, Karuna Warren and Terry Alvarez is 7 p.m. Saturday, March 3, at the Rio Grande Theatre, 211 N. Downtown Mall in Las Cruces, highlighting the talent of local dance troupes and celebrating the variety of philosophies and styles in belly dance. Tickets: $8. Information: (575) 639-1616.

The Willow Girl Branigan Cultural Center presents Catskill Puppet

Theaters family puppet show at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 3, at the historic Amador Hotel, 180 W. Amador. Parking available across the street at the former Doa Ana County Courthouse. Admission is free. Information: Andy Albertson, Branigan Cultural Center, (575) 541-2219 or aalbertson@las-cruces.org. Willow Girl is the tale of a Chinese girl who immigrates to the American frontier, where she finds herself facing discrimination in a swirl of other immigrants and cultures. Through new friendships and ingenuity and an animated willow tree she embarks on a personal journey involving kindness and acceptance. The show is accompanied with original and traditional fiddle music. The performance is presented in conjunction with Branigans traveling Smithsonian exhibit Journey Stories, showing through April 7.

Rubin Center UTEPs Stanlee and Gerald Rubin Center for

the Visual Arts is next to Sun Bowl Stadium (off Dawson Drive). Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday; by appointment only Saturday, Sunday and Monday. Information: 747-6151 or academics.utep.edu/visualarts. Showing through March 31: 2012 Biennial UTEP Faculty Art Exhibition, curated by Denver Art Museum modern and contemporary art curator Gwen Chanzit. The exhibit showcases recent artwork by 27 distinguished faculty of the UTEP Department of Art in wide range of artistic media including ceramics, metals, sculpture, painting, printmaking, drawing, graphic design and more. A presentation by Stacy Schultz, Assistant Professor of Art History Stacy Schultz is 5 p.m. Thursday, March 1 in the auditorium.

Spencer Theater for Performing Arts Airport Hwy 220 in Alto,

N.M. (about 12 miles north of downtown Ruidoso). Free public guided tours are 10 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays (except show dates). Information: (575) 3364800, (888) 818-7872 or spencertheater.com. Las Cruces Symphony Orchestra The orchestra, directed by Lonnie Klein, performs at 7 p.m. Saturday, March 3. The program will include Mozarts Violin Concerto #5 in A Major K.219 with featured soloist Eva Len, violin and Symphony #35 in D Major Haffner K.385. Tickets: $56 and $59.

Willie Nelson The country legend performs at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 3, at The Plaza Theatre. Tickets: $40-$75. (Ticketmaster). Nelson has recorded more than 200 albums, appeared in several movies and has received the prestigious Kennedy Center honor for preeminent performing artists.

LCSO with Eva Leon Las Cruces Symphony Orchestra, directed by

Lonnie Klein, welcomes violinist Eva Len in a program featuring the music of W.A. Mozart at 3 p.m. Sunday, March 4, at NMSUs Atkinson Music Recital Hall. Len will perform Mozarts Violin Concerto No. 5 in A major, K. 219. The Chamber Orchestra also will perform the Haffner Symphony by Mozart (Symphony No. 35 in D major, K. 385) and Peter Warlocks Six Italian Dances. Tickets: $15 open seating. Information: (575) 646-3709 or lascrucessymphony.com.

Kim Lenz and The Jaguars The LA-based rockabilly

singer-songwriter and her band performs 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. Friday, March 2, at Badlands Billiards, 7792 Franklin. Opening bands are El Pasos Raw Deal and Hot Rod Boogie. Admission: $8. Information: 408-8494.

Some cats may be

Q: I recently heard that there are cat breeds that are OK for allergy sufferers. What are they? via email A: No cat or breed of cat can ever be said to be OK for allergy sufferers. While there are some individual cats (studies suggest lighter-colored females) and certain breeds (some Siberian and Rex cats) that mild to moderate allergy sufferers may be able to tolerate better, for those with severe allergies, the risk is probably not worth it. Allergies to cats are so prevalent and so often severe that theyve been suggested as one of the factors in the increased diagnoses of asthma, especially since more cats than ever before spend their lives inside. Its not cat fur that causes the problem which is why lightly furred or hairless cats arent the cure but an ingredient in cat saliva that gets deposited on fur when the animal grooms, then spreads with flakes of skin and secretions commonly called dander. Some tips to help allergy sufferers: Keep animals clean. A weekly water bath (no soap needed) for cats has been shown to reduce levels of dander and may make living with a cat workable. Its best if a non-allergic member of the family handles the pet-grooming chores. Keep animals out of sleeping areas at all times.

MYMATURETIMES MARCH 2012 PAGE 13

Happier trips mean cleaner car rides

of experience. But most puppies can outgrow car sickness if taken out regularly in the car. If you want your dog to enjoy car rides, then take him to dog parks and other fun destinations. Otherwise, if all trips seem to end at the veterinary hospital, he may never think car rides are fun. Talk to your veterinarian about medications (over-the-counter or prescription) that can help if your puppy doesnt outgrow carsickness. And make sure when your pet is on the road that hes safely secured in a crate or with a harness. Would you rather work out or indulge in heavy petting? According to Prevention magazine, 67 percent of us say having a pet is better for long-term health than having a personal trainer. Probably more fun, too. its an insect crawling between the hairs or a fingernail giving a scratch. If nerve endings detect something thats annoying the skin, the dogs leg will automatically come up to scratch off the pest even if theres no pest there. The response is most pronounced if you scratch a dog on the rump near the base of the tail, along the upper part of the flanks or on the belly not coincidentally, places where fleas like to congregate. The scratch reflex is so predictable that veterinarians will use it to help with their neurological exam when spinal damage is suspected. Mikkel Becker and Dr. Marty Becker

Dogs get carsick for many reasons, including anxiety, full bellies and a lack

While its hard to give up the hot-water-bottle pleasures of sleeping with a pet on the bed, your body needs a break from the stress of fighting off allergens. limit exposure to other allergens. Keeping all your allergies under control can help your body handle the exposure to a pet. Most important, work with an allergist whos willing to work with you. The one whose advice starts and ends with your cat needs a new home probably isnt the one to choose. A good specialist can put together a treatment plan that along with a commitment to environmental management may make living with a cat possible for all but the worst allergy sufferers. Gina Spadafori Do you have a pet question? Send it to petconnection@gmail.com.

Every healthy dog has a reflex reaction to any passing skin irritation, whether

MYMATURETIMES MARCH 2012 PAGE 14

Dual Occupations

44 Until 45 Lakers' league, for short 46 Flair 47 Winona, of Reality Bites 50 Mischievous one 52 Toast starter 53 Microsoft prod. 55 Wide-eyed 57 Joan of Arc 63 Door lock 64 ___ Rae 65 Royal Crown Cola brand 67 Thus 68 Irretrievable item 69 Geezer 70 Toothed wheel 71 Lum and Abner setting 72 Baseball's Cabell

DOWN
1 Porkpie, for one 2 Poor box donation 3 Think tank output 4 Criminal underworld 5 Divvy up 6 Slip-on shoe 7 Beowulf , e.g. 8 Casino city 9 Senator Lott 10 On the beach 11 Wall Street pessimist 12 Yield 13 Use an abacus 21 Comforts 22 Stutz Bearcat, e.g. 25 Anesthetic

26 Suspicious 27 Chris DeBurgh's Lady ___ 29 Locks locale 30 Uproar 32 California cager 33 Solo 34 Irish poet 36 LBJ's successor 38 Fore's opposite 41 Justice Fortas 42 Resort lake 43 Old world charm 48 Ben Bradlee, e.g. 49 Curtain holder 51 Cain, e.g. 54 Ballads 56 Blinding light 57 Encore! 58 Seaweed 59 Part of a yard 60 Yes ___ 61 Dodge model 62 Word to a fly 63 Panhandle 66 The I in TGIF

ACROSS
1 Reagan's secretary of state 5 Forewarn 10 Rhyme scheme 14 Swit's TV costar 15 Horse with an easy gallop 16 Burpee buy 17 Feds 18 Moonlight Gambler singer 19 Worker

20 Ralph Waldo Emerson 23 Tardy 24 Seafarer 25 Walt Disney's middle name 28 Magnavox rival 31 Pass on 35 Sawbuck 37 Driller's gp. 39 Ginger ___ 40 Hebrew prophet Amos

MYMATURETIMES MARCH 2012 PAGE 15

GOLF SPOKEN HERE

By T.J. TOMASI

The set and swing

The set and swing is a revolutionary new way to address the ball: You address the ball with your lead arm across the middle of your chest like a baseball player. Then you trigger your downswing with a slight pump or upward motion of the arms that preserves the dynamic motion necessary to make a good golf swing.

Fairway

How it works
Place yourself in the correct position and pose as I am in the first photo below, then pump the club up a few inches to start your downswing. Its the same principle as hitting a baseball with a bat start high, pump and swing down. Step 1: Address a ball as you normally would. Step 2: Swing back until your lead arm is parallel to the ground and stop. Adjust your body, arms and hands to match the positions described below. It only takes a few reps to get these positions down pat. They are: (a) Clubshaft points at the target line. (b) Lead arm and shaft form a 90-degree angle. (c) Shoulders turned 75 degrees. (d) 50 percent of weight pulled onto your right hip. (e) Lead arm parallel to and directly above your toe line. Step 3: Once youre set, coil your torso to the right and pump your arms up. This simple move stretches the key downswing muscles just as much as a traditional backswing, giving you the same amount of potential energy to unleash into the ball. Think of a frog as it squats before leaping, ratcheting

The word comes from a nautical term that describes a safe passageway through potentially dangerous waters. If you keep the ball on the short grass, it stays out of harms way. Most of the danger in golf lies off up its elastic ento the sides of holes in ABOUT THE WRITER ergy to explode the form of trees, water, Dr. T.J. into the air. Tomasi is a bunkers and out-ofteaching Step 4: Immedibounds, so make it part professional in Port St. of any game plan you ately following Lucie, Fla. Visit his have to start each hole your pump, Web site at by hitting the fairway. tjtomasi.com. swing back down

Here is your new address position.

to the ball by firing your core while transferring your weight onto your front foot. This works only if you keep your spine centered over the ball as it was at address. I believe the set and swing method eliminates 70 percent of the mistakes that typically ruin impact. The major advantage in learning the swing this way is that since much of the backswing is a posed position, the student can go through a checklist to make sure things are correct. Its very difficult to separate out the way things feel at the top of the normal swing because there is so much happening in such a short time The amount of kinesthetic clutter makes learning difficult. Not so with the set and swing.

QUOTE OF THE MONTH

Good to see Natalie Gulbis increasing the LPGAs, ahem, visibility by appearing in the body paint section of Sports Illustrateds 2012 swimsuit issue. Actually, its good to see Gulbis, period.
ace golf writer John Hawkins

Here is the top of your swing after the pump up (or waggle).