MYMATURETIMES FEBRUARY 2012 PAGE 2

Seville Recreation Center Valentines Day Senior Dance

Who: El Paso Parks and Recreation Department What: Senior Valentines Day Dance When: Tuesday, February 14, 2012 (1:00 p.m. 3:00 p.m.) Where: Seville Recreation Center, 6700 Sambrano Ave. El Paso, Texas - The City of El Paso Parks and Recreation Department will host a Valentines Dance for seniors at the Seville Recreation Center, 6700 Sambrano Ave. from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. on Valentines Day, February 14, 2012. Admission will be $2 per person with door prizes musical entertainment by the Horizonte Band.

Social Security Column

A VALENTINE TIP FROM SOCIAL SECURITY

change your name at a later time, you should let us know so that we can update your Social Security record and send you a Social Security card with your new name. Theres no need to pay someone else to mail in the information for you. Changing your name with Social Security is a quick, easy, and free service. Just go online to www.socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber, learn what documents you need, and click on Fill Out and Print an application (Form SS-5). You also can call us at 1-800-772-1213 to obtain the form. We will need the completed application along with a marriage certificate or divorce decree verifying your old and new names. If you were born outside the United States, you also need proof of your U.S. citizenship or proof that you are lawfully living in the U.S. You can bring or mail these documents to us. You may be focused on the one you love, and we dont blame you. But if you like us (we hope you do) please click on the Facebook icon at our homepage and like us on Facebook. Also, you can follow us on Twitter too. Look for our Facebook and Twitter icons at www.socialsecurity.gov. We share information daily that can help you and all your Valentines. Happy Valentines Day from Social Security.

By Ray Vigil Social Security Public Affairs Specialist in El Paso, Texas Valentines Day is just around the corner, making this a popular time of year for proclamations of love. Such displays of affection can be as simple and sweet as a heart with a be mine message, or as life altering as a vow before the altar. If you happen to be a newlywed who is head over heels in love, you may not be focused on things such as taxes or Social Security, but you should be. If you plan to exchange your maiden name for a married name including hyphenated names such as Smith-Jones be sure you let us know. Telling us about your name change shortly after your marriage will help us accurately keep track of your earnings and will ensure that you and your family get the Social Security retirement, disability, and survivors coverage youre entitled to. Also, if the Internal Revenue Service and Social Security records do not show the same name and Social Security number, your Federal income tax refund could be delayed. If you continue to use your maiden name consistently throughout your working years, you do not need to contact us. However, if you decide to

Information Emilio Arce or Rosa Montes (915) 778-6722

Now's the Time to Boost Your Exercise Pace

Dr. David Lipschitz Though you may not know it, scientists have already found the one magic bullet that will prevent disease, promote longevity and ensure lifelong independence. It's neither sexy nor groundbreaking. It's easy and hard, simple and complex all at the same time. It's exercise. effective and appropriate exercise regimen are astounding. Commit to all four elements of a great exercise program. Start with stretches, continue with balance exercises, follow with aerobic exercise (getting your heart rate up) and always exercise with weights the best way to build muscle, strength and prevent frailty with advancing age.

Over 50?

MYMATURETIMES FEBRUARY 2012 PAGE 3

Whether you start early or late, the benefits of moving more are astounding. Exercise helps your body work at its optimum level. With cardiovascular training, you work the most important muscle in the body the heart. A stronger heart means fewer heart attacks and more blood pumping through the body with less exertion. This, in turn, lowers blood pressure and reduces the risk of strokes. Regular exercise helps maintain an ideal weight and speeds up metabolism. It also reduces the risk of diabetes, colon cancer, breast cancer, osteoporosis, prostate cancer and depresAlthough it is clear that stretching sion. prevents injuries while exercising, balance training reduces the risk of When it comes to exercise, throw age falls and exercising with weights out the window. Don't slow down strengthens muscle and bone. It also after 50 speed up! It's even more reduces depression, promotes weight important now that you keep up the loss, prevents diabetes and makes aermomentum and make exercise a part obic activity easier, which, in turn, of your daily life. Get off your butt prolongs life. As a nation, we are exand make fitness a priority. Move ercising less, gaining weight and losmore, not less, as you age. Whether ing muscle. Unfortunately, Americans you're 45, 55 or 85, the benefits of an hate to exercise. Continues on p.6

MYMATURETIMES FEBRUARY 2012 PAGE 4

Help Seniors Winterize Their Homes

By Sandi Smith, President of El Paso and Las Cruces franchises Certified Senior Advisor Winter months can be particularly harsh for seniors, especially for those who live in northern states where temperatures are coldest. It is important that the ones you love stay safe during the winter season. Their safety includes not just dressing appropriately for the weather but also making sure their homes are in good shape to face the dangerous drops in temperature. Depending on where your senior loved one lives, you may have very little to do to ensure winter safety in and around their home. However, for the colder regions, that to-do list may be quite long. The following are a few pointers to help you get started when visiting your loved ones this season. does not already have one, purchase a fire extinguisher and teach him or her how to use it.

EMERgEncY PREPARATIonS
Now is also a good time to create bad weather emergency kits for the home and even the car. For the house, make sure there are plenty of extra water bottles, candles, matches or lighters, flashlights and batteries in case of a power outage. Canned food and other non-perishable items should be stored for this purpose, as well. Keeping flashlights on the bedside table in case of such emergencies is also a good idea. Emergency kits for cars are just as essential. While you do not want to store water in the car during freezing temperatures, you can keep a to-go bag by the door for outings. Inside this bag include plenty of water, some snacks or other easy-to-eat non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, and a cell phone charger for the car. Packing a warm change of clothes or a blanket may be a good idea. Better to be safe than sorry if your loved ones car happens to slide off of an icy road. At least the senior will be prepared to wait for help. If you live away from the senior in your life, now may be a good time to contact an in-home care agency, to check on your loved one and ensure he or she is safe during the winter. Continues on page 6

ExTERIoR
Install weather strips around doors and caulk windows to keep cold air out and warm air inside. Insulate exposed pipes to protect them from freezing. Seal any holes in the houses foundation to keep animals from crawling underneath the house for shelter. Clean out gutters and ensure spouts are clear so any water flows away from the house. For locations that expect extended temperatures of 32 degrees or below, install additional insulation in the attic for protection. Check to make sure all snow and de-icing equipment is in working order. Ice-melt salt or sand is handy and provides additional safety during icy times. Drain gas from mowers and water from garden hoses.

InTERIoR
Make sure the furnace is in good working order and clear any materials that may become a fire hazard. Install carbon monoxide and smoke detectors and store enough batteries for both. Have other heating units inspected and serviced. Clean the fireplace and leave wood in easy reach for seniors to use. If your loved one

MYMATURETIMES FEBRUARY 2012 PAGE 5

Algie Felder is justifiably proud of his radio station, KPAS 103.1

By Joe Olvera , 2012

Algie Felder, a replanted El

Pasoan, has been in love with the Sun City since the time he first arrived in 1961. Transferred here from the Southeast, where he was a supervisor in Air Defense Systems, he and his wife, Ruth, thought that El Paso was a wonderful place. It was so different, with its warm weather and dust storms, that we immediately felt at home, said Felder, 82. It was difficult at first, getting used to living along the border, but, eventually, we settled down and decided to raise our family here. The Felders raised seven children, all of them now grown and each a

college graduate. Owners of a privately owned radio station, KPAS 103.1, the station has been in existence for 33 years. It broadcasts inspirational and Gospel music and messages in Spanish and English. From 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. it broadcasts in Spanish, and from 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. in English. Besides raising his seven children and having a successful life, owning the radio station is one of the things of which hes most proud. Were blessed, weve had a wonderful life, Felder said. Weve built our station into one that broadcasts more than 100 miles. Our children have grown up with it, and we could say that its a family affair.

One of my sons acts as my chief engineer, and my other children help out as well. Thats why weve been able to hold on to it for so many years. I intend to hold on to it for another 33 years, or as long as the Good Lord allows me to.

wonderful
life, Felder said.

weve had a

blessed,

Were

Ruth Felder, his wife, said that shes been happy living in El Paso, but that when they first arrived, the city was segregated. But, that didnt last for long, Ruth Felder said. El Paso is a city that grows on you, and it certainly has made us feel welcome. One thing that would make her happy is for the city to build a monument to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., such as the one that was recently dedicated to the late, great civil rights leader at the National Mall in Washington, D.C. The larger-than-life monument is a testament to Dr. Kings life and legacy. With the advent of Black History Month in February, such a monument would do much to honor Dr. King. Continues on next page

MYMATURETIMES FEBRUARY 2012 PAGE 6

Help Seniors...
Continued from page 4 These agencies have qualified staff that can help with grocery shopping, light housekeeping, and can even provide transportation to appointments or other errands. Most importantly, someone will keep an eye on the senior living alone, providing crucial care and much needed socialization during cold wintery days. Continued from page 3 Believe me, I have heard every excuse in the book. It's too hard; I'm too old; I'm too tired; or I'm too busy. When it comes to exercise, the excuses abound. Enticing Americans to exercise can be a challenging task, so the medical community has rallied around a single mantra: "Just do a little. Anything is better than nothing." While any exercise is better than no exercise, the idea that less is more is simply wrong! This passive, mediocre approach not only provides yet another excuse for us to avoid the hard work of healthy living but also sucks the life out of exercising! Where is the passion in a leisurely, 10-minute stroll? You don't even give your body a chance to release the healthy, energizing endorphins of exercise. While a little is better than nothing, the more you do the healthier you will be. 55. A six-pack of abdominals and bulging biceps are not the litmus test of fitness. Although both of those challenges are incredible for sure, often we psych ourselves out thinking that a rigorous exercise program is limited to hard-core athletes. This is simply not true. You do not have to stick to some idealized image of what it means to be "in shape." Fitness comes in all shapes, sizes and forms. And do not for one minute believe that being overweight, or frankly, obese negates the benefits of exercise. The evidence is compelling it is better to be fit and fat than thin and sedentary. A recent study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, which followed 14,000 men showed that whether fat or not, those who increased their fitness levels had a significantly lower risk of death from all causes, including heart disease. Losing weight is very difficult. To live longer and healthier, it is better to worry less about your weight and more about exercise and fitness. So as the new year evolves and we commit to an improved shape, vow to join a health club, exercise as much as possible and those extra pounds may slip away without much effort. You do not have to be an exercise nut to be fit. Fitness does not necessarily mean training for the Tour de France or completing an Ironman at Dr. David Lipschitz is the author of the book "Breaking the Rules of Aging." More information is available at: www.drdavidhealth.com
COPYRIGHT 2012 CREATORS.COM

SEnIoR HUMoR:
An Old man went to the doctor complaining of a terrible pain in his leg. I am afraid its just old age, replied the doctor, there is nothing we can do about it. That cant be fumed the old man, you dont know what you are doing. How can you possibly know I am wrong? countered the doctor. Well its quite obvious, the old man replied, my other leg is fine, and its the exact same age!

Algie Felder ...

Continued from page 5 It would be a great honor for El Paso to build a statue or a monument to remember Dr. King for his actions and for his fight for the liberation of all peoples, Ruth Felder said. I dont know, however, if El Paso has that sort of money. As for the job President Barack Obama is doing as the nations first African American president, she feels he is doing a great job, but, would not commit to voting for him. She prefers to remain neutral, as does her husband. I m not endorsing anybody, nor am I un-endorsing anyone, Algie Felder said. I think Obama is doing a good job, but, its up to the American public to decide. Im just happy that Ive managed to keep my station going for such a long time. It hasnt been easy, but, weve been successful all these years. We hope to continue doing it for many more years.

The Challenges of Glaucoma as We Age

versible once it presents itself. Early diagnosis of glaucoma is critical as there are treatments such as medicine or surgery that can slow the progression of vision loss. The only way glaucoma can be detected is by regular comprehensive eye exams, which should begin sometime within your middle-aged years. Because this disease is more common in people over the age of 60, it is important that you discuss with your senior loved ones how crucial it is to have regular eye exams. Depending on your age, you might decide to book your own appointment, as well. Find out if any of family members have glaucoma and do research to determine if other risk

MYMATURETIMES FEBRUARY 2012 PAGE 7

factors are present. Remember, early detection is critical in managing this disease and preventing complete vision loss. For more information, visit www.glaucoma.org.
References Platt, Spencer. USA Today (2010). Changing with age: confronting glaucoma before its too late. Retrieved on December 2, 2011, from http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2010-07-15-glaucomablindness_N.htm Glaucoma Research Foundation (2011). Glaucoma awareness month. Retrieved on December 2, 2011, from http://www.glaucoma.org/news/glaucoma-awareness-month.php Whitmore, Lynn A. and Medley, Rachel. Glaucoma Research Foundation (2011). Understanding and living with glaucoma. Retrieved on December 2, 2011, from http://www.glaucoma.org/treatment/literature.php

When facing the aging process, we

know there are challengesbut we also know these challenges do not have to ruin our fun. Growing old is a fact of life. The key to managing the normal aging process is to embrace it and take the best care of ourselves so that we might continue living independently for as long as possible. In order to take care of ourselves, we must be aware of various types of conditions that become more prevalent as we age. Regular visits to the doctor are a must to determine if certain symptoms we experience are cause for worry or not. It is just as important to have regular eye exams for the same purpose, as vision loss can mean the difference in living independently or not. Glaucoma is a word we have all heard but as we age it becomes increasingly important to know what it means. In knowledgeable circles it is called the sneak thief of sight, as this disease

is the second leading cause of blindness in the world, according to the World Health Organization. There are rarely warning signs. Once symptoms begin to show, vision loss is permanent. There is no cure. However, blindness caused by glaucoma can also be prevented, provided it is detected at an early stage. Risk factors for glaucoma increase if you are over the age of 60; are Hispanic, African American or Asian; have diabetes as a result of being obese; have family members (especially siblings) with glaucoma; are very nearsighted. Because there are rarely symptoms that indicate the presence of glaucoma, most people do not realize there is a problem until loss of vision occurs. By this time, it is often too late. Up to 40% of your vision can disappear without your realizing you have glaucoma. This vision loss, while avoidable through early diagnosis, is irre-

MYMATURETIMES FEBRUARY 2012 PAGE 8

Thyroid Disease and Seniors

As seniors embrace the
golden years, they have many things to look forward to retirement, watching their children begin families of their own, playing with grandchildren, and hopefully enjoying a full life with the wisdom of age on their side. Along with the joys of aging comes the knowledge that their body is changing inside and out. Some changes, due to the normal aging process, may be mild while others can become a downright nuisance. Either way, it is important for seniors to know his or her body and be aware of normal changes versus those that warrant a visit to the doctor. One condition seniors have the potential to develop as they age is thyroid disease, which affects the bodys metabolic rate. Hyperthyroidism is caused by an increased metabolism when the thyroid produces too many hormones. Hypothyroidism is caused by underproduction of thyroid hormones, and results in low metabolic rate. Early detection and proper treatment of either can prevent the disease from getting worse and leading to other critical conditions. Hypothyroidism is more common in older adults but hard to recognize because symptoms generally occur over the course of many years. The frequency of multiple symptoms decreases with age. Seniors suffering this disease may have only one or

the upper neck and / or chest area You have had surgery on your thyroid gland You have an iodine deficiency
Treatment for hypothyroidism involves medication containing the synthetic thyroid hormone levothyroxine, which restores normal levels of hormones produced by your thyroid gland. Typically, once proper dosage is determined, you should feel better within a few weeks. Hyperthyroidism presents itself in various ways, making it a challenge to diagnose, as some symptoms are indicative of other health conditions. As with hypothyroidism, seniors may present only one or two symptoms of this disease. Medications can cause a few of the same symptoms or even mask the signs of this disease. Symptoms of hyperthyroidism may include: sudden weight loss; rapid or irregular heartbeat; pounding of the heart; increased appetite; nervousness, anxiety or irritability; tremors in the hands and / or fingers; sweating; menstrual changes; increased sensitivity to heat; changes in bowel patterns; an enlarged thyroid gland; fatigue; muscle weakness; difficulty sleeping.

hyperthyroidism You have Graves or Plummers disease You suffer thyroiditis (swelling or pain in the thyroid gland) You have toxic adenoma (nodules on the thyroid gland)
Hyperthyroidism can be treated by radioactive iodine or other medications that slow hormone production. Removal of part of the thyroid gland is sometimes successful but not often recommended in older patients. Because seniors experience changes due to the aging process that may include various symptoms of other conditions, thyroid disease is a bit more difficult to diagnose within this age group than it is in younger generations. Signs of thyroid disease can be mild and may go ignored. This makes it critical for seniors to be aware of their bodily changes and the symptoms and risks of thyroid disease. When diagnosed and properly treated, thyroid disease can be managed and a good quality of life can be maintained throughout the golden years.
References:Mayo Clinic. Hypothyroidism. Retrieved on November 18, 2011 from mayoclinic.com/health/hypothyroidism/DS00353 /DSECTION=symptoms Mayo Clinic. Hyperthyroidism. Retrieved on November 18, 2011 from mayoclinic.com/health/hyperthyroidism/DS0034 4/METHOD=print&DSECTION=all American Thyroid Association (2005). Thyroid disease in the older patient. Retrieved on November 20, 2011 from thyroid.org/patients/brochures/ ThyroidDisorderOlder_broch.pdf

two symptoms. Presentation of symptoms depends largely on the deficiency of hormone levels in your body. Symptoms of hypothyroidism vary, depending on how low thyroid hormone levels are, and may include: fatigue; sluggishness; increased sensitivity to cold; constipation; pale, dry skin; a puffy face; hoarseness; high cholesterol levels; brittle hair and nails; unexplained weight gain; muscle aches, tenderness and stiffness; menstrual changes; muscle weakness; pain, stiffness, or swelling in joints; depression.

Theriskofdevelopinghypothyroidism increasesif:
You are a female over the age of 50 (more women suffer hypothyroidism than men) You (or close relatives) suffer from autoimmune disease You have taken radioactive iodine and / or medicines for hyperthyroidism You have had radiation in

Theriskfordevelopinghyperthyroidism mayincreaseif:
A close family member has

MYMATURETIMES FEBRUARY 2012 PAGE 9

By: Doppler Dave Speelman

If the groundhog can get its own day, why can the weather people? Every February 5th is National Weatherman's Day which honors weathermen, and woman who work hard to try and accurately predict the often fickle weather. Despite major technological advances and supercomputers, forecasting the weather is still a tricky and ever changing business. Knowing the weather is important in many ways. It affects how we dress, where we go, and even if we go. Space launches are made or delayed depending upon the weather. And, knowing the weather can save lives. The most obvious example is knowing when and where hurricanes or tornados may hit. According to the Air Force News, Weatherman's Day "commemorates the birth of John Jeffries, one of America's first weathermen". Jeffries was born on Feb 5, 1745. He kept weather records from 1774 to 1816. Its also documented that Jeffries flew in a balloon across the English Channel in 1785. Some argue he was the first American to fly. Since flying and meteorology are intertwined this could very well lead us to believe this was the beginning. Jeffries was quoted as saying ballooning could "leadto a full investigation of the nature and properties of the atmosphere". But Jeffries was more than a weather observer or "weatherman" he was a Boston physician as well. So, February 5th is a big day for us weather people. Give us some slack for at least one day.

OriginofNationalWeatherman'sDay:
While we know why this day was created, we do not know who initiated it or when. I found not documentation in congressional records to confirm that this is truely a national day. If you have any information about this holiday, please email me. 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.

Answer: B Ronald McDonald. Willard Scott created the "Ronald McDonald" character for two businessmen who had the DC area McDonald's Drivein Restaurant franchise. The McDonald's Corporation eventually hired a different actor for the national commercials.

What! There's a Weather Trivia Willard Scott is the former weekday weatherman for the NBC National The Today Show. He also is the creator of what famous character(s)? C. Mickey Mouse A. Pillsbury Dough Boy Weatherman's D. The Muppets B. Ronald McDonald Day?

MYMATURETIMES FEBRUARY 2012 PAGE 10

Out & About

noRTHEAST/ cEnTRAl
CrosslandGallery El Paso
Art Associations gallery is 500 W. Paisano (in the Art Junction of El Paso). Hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. TuesdaythroughFriday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays. Admission is free. Information: 534-7377. ShowingFeb.3-25: In the Bissell Gallery: EPAA Member Exhibit featuring works by

Calendar of upcoming events for El Paso/ Southern New Mexico are from February 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

Jacques Barriac, Paulina Castillon, Gerardo Chavez, Joseph Patrick Mitchell, Candy Mayer, Ed Saucedo, Diana Zampini and more. In the Cox Gallery: Pearls of Ice, works Julie Caffee-Cruz and Lori Wertz. In the Williams Gallery: Artists of the Month Art Nuez and Rudi Leidelmeyer. Opening reception is 5 to 8 p.m. Friday,Feb.3. One work from these exhibits will be chosen for the 20122013 EPAA Yearbook cover.

EASTSIdE
BarrioTour El Paso Chicano(a) History Preservation Project and San
Juan Neighborhood Association hosts an hour-long tour of one of El Pasos oldest Mexican American neighborhoods at 9 a.m. Saturday,Feb.4, starting in plaza next to the San Juan Recreation Center, 701 N. Glenwood. Suggested donation: $5. Information/RSVP: 258-0989 or rayerojas@gmail.com. Tour will include talks on dairies, San Juan Catholic Church, Hawkins School, coming of I-10, famous sanjuaneros and more. A roundtable with senior San Juan residents will take place after the tour.

MISSIon VAllEY

WESTSIdE/doWnToWn
for most shows. All shows are all-ages, unless listed otherwise. Information: 351-9909. Tickets for most shows available at All That Music, Bowie Feathers and Marias Closet, and online at holdmyticket.com. AnthonyGreen The indie rockers Beautiful Things Tour is Saturday, Feb.4, with The Dear Hunter. Tickets: $15. festival presents world-class chamber musicians throughFeb.5. Concerts, recitals and other special events will be offered at various venues, in addition to the popular Music Film Series and free Bachs lunch performances at El Paso Museum of Art. This years guests include Kim Kashkashian, Alfredo Oyaguez, Soovin Kim and Lara Downes. Information: 833-9400 or eppm.org. LaraDownes presents 13 Ways of Looking at the Goldbergs at 7:30 p.m. Friday,Feb.3, at Western Hills United Methodist Church. ZuillBailey joins the Las Cruces Symphony Orchestra as guest cellist at 7:30 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb.4-5, at NMSUs Atkinson Music Recital Hall in Las Cruces.

ConjuntoPrimavera The norteo group performs at 8 p.m. Saturday,

TrickyFalls 209 S. El Paso. Doors open at 7 p.m.; showtime at 8 p.m.

Feb.4, at El Paso County Coliseum, with El Pasos Los Reileros del Norte. Conjunto Primavera was founded in Ojinaga, Chihuahua in 1978 featuring singer Tony Melendez, accordionist/keyboardist Felix Contreras, saxophonist Juan Dominguez, bajosexto player Rolando Perez, bassist Oscar Ochoa and drummer Adan Huerta. Tickets: $32; BYOB. (Ticketmaster).

ElPasoChamberMusicFestival- El Paso Pro-Musicas 23rd annual

UTEPMensBasketball The Miners host UAB at 7 p.m. Saturday,

Feb.4, at the Don Haskins Center. Tickets: $14-$50 (Ticketmaster). Information: 747-5234 or utepathletics.com.

annual multi-state marathon and half-marathon and Jarritos 5K run/walk is Sunday,Feb.5. Information: 274-5222 or elpasomarathon.org. Registration through Feb. 3 is $80 full marathon; $55 half-marathon and $40 5K.Registration during the pre-Race Expo is $65 full marathon; $55 half-marathon and $40 5K. Military discount of $5 per race. The new marathon route for this Boston Marathon qualifier starts atop the Franklin Mountains down Transmountain Road, passes through Fort Bliss, to the beautiful Austin Terrace neighborhood and finishes in historic Downtown El Paso.

ElPasoMichelobUltraMarathonand1/2Marathon The 6th

MYMATURETIMES FEBRUARY 2012 PAGE 11

MYMATURETIMES FEBRUARY 2012 PAGE 12

WESTSIdE/doWnToWn
AMagnificentChoralFestival Bruce Nehring Consort presents a concert of Massed Choirs featuring guest organist, conductor and composer Dr. Michael Burkhardt at 3 p.m. Sunday,Feb.5, at Western Hills United Methodist Church, 524 Thunderbird. The Consort Singers conducted by Nehring will perform God of Rhythm, God of Sound. Guests include the Handbell Choir of Western Hills United Methodist Church, conducted by Jim Regin. Tickets: $15 ($10 senior/military; $5 students). Information: 534-7664. Ticket information: 532-5874 or brucenehringconsort.org. Internationally known for his innovative and inspiring hymn festivals, Burkhardt is an accomplished choral clinician, composer and organ recitalist. He is Director of Worship and the Arts at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Livonia, Michigan and Artistic Director of the Detroit Handbell Ensemble. Burkhardt will conduct and perform this unique Massed Choir Festival in which the entire community may participate. Rehearsals are 8:30 a.m. to noon Saturday,Feb.4 and 1:15 p.m. Sunday,Feb.5, at Western Hills UMC. Participation cost is $20 per person, which includes all music and a complimentary festival ticket for a guest. Registration is 8 a.m. Saturday for those who have not registered in advance.

SoUTHERn nEW MExIco

TheRagbirds The contemporary folk/roots band performs at 7:30
p.m. Friday,Feb.3, at WNMU Fine Arts Center Theatre, Silver City. Presented by Mimbres Region Arts Council. Led by dynamic and energetic front woman and multi-instrumentalist Erin Zindle, The Ragbirds utilize an arsenal of instruments from around the world and are a fusion of folk rock and pop that hooks over danceable world rhythms stirred with a Celtic fiddlers bow. Tickets: $20 ($15 members; $5 students/children). Information: (575) 538-2505 or mimbresarts.org.

MikeysSheesh-ka-Deesh Mikeys Place, 3100 Harrelson in Las

Cruces, hosts an artistic dance and music celebration 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, Feb.3, as part of For The Love of Art Month, dessert, coffee, tea and wine. Admission; $10. Information: (575) 644-9561 or mikeysplacenm.com. There will also be an historical display of African American artists with information on each artist, and works by Las Cruces artist Georjeanna Feltha in honor of Black History Month.

LCSOwithZuillBailey Las Cruces Symphony Orchestra, directed by Lonnie Klein, welcome renowned cellist Zuill Bailey Feb.4-5, at NMSUs Atkinson Music Recital Hall. Bailey is the Artistic Director of El Paso Pro Musica and Professor of Cello at UTEP. Bailey will perform the Cello Concerto No. 1 in A minor, Op.33 by Camille-Saint-Sans. The orchestra completes the program with Claude Debussys Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun, Richard Strauss Suite from Der Rosenkavalier and the Radetzky March, Op. 228 by Johann Strauss, Sr. Showtime is 7:30 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. Tickets: $35$45. Information: (575) 646-3709 or lascrucessymphony.com. A luncheon with Maestro Klein is 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 2, at Ramada Palms Hotel Conference Center, featuring a preview of concert music. Cost: $16; no reservation needed. The public is invited to the dress rehearsal performance at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3, at the recital hall. Tickets: $15 ($5 students with valid ID).

WildThing,YouMakeMyHeartSing El Paso Wind Symphony performs at 7:30 p.m.Friday,Feb.3, at UTEPs Fox Fine Arts Recital Hall. Tickets $12.50 ($7.50 military, students and seniors). Information: 760-5599 or elpasowindsymphony.com.

Wicked The Broadway blockbuster that reveals the untold story of

the Oz witches comes to El Paso Feb.1-12, at the Plaza Theatre, based on the bestseller by Gregory McGuire. Group tickets available to purchase in spring of 2011. Information: wickedthemusical.com. Tickets Cost: $57.50-$77.50; $125 premium (Ticketmaster). The musical directed by twotime Tony Award winner Joe Mantello is winner of 35 major awards, including a Grammy Award and three Tony Awards. Long before Dorothy drops in, two other girls meet in the land of Oz. One, born with emerald green skin, is smart, fiery and misunderstood. The other is beautiful, ambitious and very popular. Wicked tells the story of how these two unlikely friends grow to become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good.

DowntownRamble The City of Las Cruces hosts an evening of

music and art 5 to 7 p.m. the first Friday of the month at the Las Cruces Downtown Mall. Information: (575) 523-2950.

FirstFridaysinSilverCity Several of historic Downtown Silver Citys restaurants, shops and Red Dot galleries will stay open late the first Friday of each month as part of the monthly First Friday shopping event. Free live music and other special events also planned each month. Information: 1-800-548-9378 or silvercitymainstreet.com.

MYMATURETIMES FEBRUARY 2012 PAGE 13

Many wish people were more like dogs

It seems some people are not dreaming of getting a puppy as a Valentines Day gift, but rather wishing their human mates were more like a dog. And their dogs are helping them look for mates! According to an American Kennel Club survey: 25 percent of women polled wished men were in a perennially good mood, like a dog. 15 percent of men polled wished women were just as happy to stay home as go out on the town as a dog would be. 58 percent of men said a puppy is a foolproof way of meeting women in a park. 46 percent of women said theyd stop and talk to anyone with a cute puppy. Children under the age of 5 left unattended with a dog have the highest chance of being bit. A study conducted by the University of Colorado looked at data of 537 dog-bite cases from 2003 to 2008. Children under 5 accounted for 68 percent of dog-bite cases, and most of the bites were by a familiar dog. Its natural for a dog to bark when a stranger comes to the door. In the case of the mail carrier, that stranger comes almost every day. The dog barks to alert the family and to warn the carrier to go away. From the dogs point of view, it was his brave warning that drove the stranger away. He doesnt realize the mail carriers just going to the next house on the route. Over time, the dogs reaction intensifies as he tries harder to send a message to the stranger who just doesnt seem to understand. As the dog becomes more and more worked up over time, the potential for a bite increases, with many mail carriers injured as a result. Mikkel Becker and Dr. Marty Becker

The eyes are key to mood in macaws

predictable pet Ive ever known. I cant ever tell whether he plans to bite me (and he draws blood when he does) or snuggle. Can a bird have mental illness is he bi-polar? via email A: Sure, a bird can have a brain that isnt functioning properly. But youre birds brain is just fine. Parrots can be loving, cuddly, playful or contemplative one minute, and demanding, aloof, manic or peevish the next. Sharing space with a parrot is like living with another human: Sometimes, you just have to pick your moments and know when to back off. Some of these moods are pretty obvious. Other times, though, behavior signs may be more subtle, and the failure to heed these clues may earn you a nasty bite. You need to watch your pets body language. Parrots have keen eyesight and often stare at something that fascinates or frightens them, using one eye and tipping the head, or using both eyes for a head-on look. When you see that your bird

Q: My macaw is the most un-

is fixated on something, follow that line of vision. A relaxed body posture accompanies a calm, curious birds staring, and a more defensive or aggressive body language demonstrates fright. Most often, a locked-on look is a sign of fascination: Like the youngest children, birds can become attracted by something colorful. Birds are able to control their irises, shrinking and enlarging their pupils rapidly in a display thats called flashing or pinning. You have to read the whole bird to put the message in its proper context. Birds may flash their eyes when theyre excited or when theyre angry. Flashing accompanied by aggressive posturing, such as tail-fanning, signifies a bird whos bound to escalate his warnings and maybe even bite if not left alone. Consider flashing to be the physical display of strong emotion anything from the I want to kill you vibes of an angry or aggressive bird to the Hey there, cutie of an infatuated bird. Gina Spadafori Do you have a pet question? Send it to petconnection@gmail.com.

MYMATURETIMES FEBRUARY 2012 PAGE 14

Tranquil

39 ___ Spumante 40 Seed-man Burpees 42 Bight 43 Irish dance 44 Ill temper 45 Hang out 47 68 Across, e.g. 50 Idolize 51 Farmers 54 B&O, et al. 56 New, used tire 57 Rock group 63 Latin 101 verb 64 Dumbbell moves 65 Warsaw Pact country: abbr. 66 Harvard's rival 67 Walkway 68 Desert monster 69 Generals insignia 70 Good time 71 VCR button

DOWN
1 Resting place? 2 Genesis gent 3 Terry Bradshaw's coach 4 Sandwich shop 5 Athenian statesman 6 Freshen 7 Door closer 8 Silent 9 Ambulance letters 10 1980 Winter Olympics site 11 Clio's sister 12 Anabaptist Simons 13 Evildoer 21 Queens diamond

22 Communion cup 25 Music sheet abbreviation 26 Ski lift 27 Let up 28 Pre 29 Oklahoma State U. site 31 More waxen 33 Corn 36 Dorothy's dog 37 Through 38 Less 41 Serene 46 Drying oven 48 Devilkin 49 Borers 51 Meditates 52 Paul, of American Graffiti 53 City south of Gainesville 55 Change the clock 58 Celestial bear 59 Hairpieces 60 Whose Life ___ Anyway? 61 Scandinavian capital 62 Golf hazard 64 Truck front

ACROSS
1 Kind of castle 5 Turkey trot, e.g. 10 Moon-landing transports: abbr. 14 Hautboy 15 Kingdom 16 Length x width 17 Lost one's footing 18 Nobelist Oscar ___ Snchez

19 Critique of Pure Reason writer 20 "Holy night" follower 22 Mount ___ 23 Sexy 24 Satirize 26 Needle 30 Like a DeMille film 32 Small chicken 34 Canine gp. 35 Molecule component

MYMATURETIMES FEBRUARY 2012 PAGE 15

TRY THIS

Fight the jitters

ByT.J.TOMASI

Seal the deal

If youre like most golfers, you probably hinge your right wrist backward at the top of your swing, and thats a good thing. But unlike players on tour, you dont keep that angle through impact. Maintaining your wrist cup allows you to retain the correct lag of the shaft, keeping the hands ahead of the clubhead until impact to provide maximum power. If you lack power, especially hitting a full sand wedge, youre probably releasing the club too early. By too early I mean that youre losing the angle between your right hand and the back of your right forearm during your downswing long before you should. To produce the feel Im talking about, take your normal grip on the club, then move your left thumb behind your right wrist and apply a sealing pressure. Take a few half-swings in slow motion with an iron from this position, and notice how the right wrist angle stays intact and the clubhead

stays behind the hands at ABOUT THE WRITER impact. Its called lag. Dr. T.J. Tomasi is a The secret to power is masteaching professional tering lag using the piston in Port St. Lucie, Fla. stroke. The bent right arm is Visit his in the form of a V at the top Web site at tjtomasi.com. of the swing, as is the cup in the right wrist. The left wrist also forms a 90-degree angle with the shaft. Starting down, the right elbow should forcefully straighten while the wrist retains its seal, preserving the 90-degree angle formed by the left forearm and the shaft. This can only happen if the right wrist stays sealed, i.e., hinged as it was at the top of the swing. The piston stroke is similar to a straight arm in football, or to a person signaling you to stop by extending his right arm with a hand perpendicular to the forearm. Try this drill: Swing to the top and stop. Then bring your target arm down until it bisects your chest and is parallel with the ground. Now stop again. Your trail arm is still bent 90 degrees at the elbow, and youre ready to fire the piston. Try to hit the ball only about 80 yards with a teed 7-iron to get the feel.

Does the pressure of a big match get to you? Try This: Breathing! Work a deep breath into your preshot routine while standing behind the ball, then take a big inhale just before you start your swing and pull the trigger as you exhale.
QUOTE OF THE MONTH

I know he can shoot inthe 60s, a matter of shooting them when it counts.
Tiger Woods, tweeting about his partner at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro Am, Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo, and speculating on Romos chances of qualifying for the U.S. Open. (Romo has a 2.2 handicap and has tried to qualify five times.)
THE RULE BOOK

A provisional is an additional ball that is hit in case the first ball cannot be found or is out of bounds. If the first ball is found, it is played. If the first ball is not found, the provisional must be played and the player is assessed a penalty stroke.

Provisional ball

The key is to keep the right wrist angle while you lose the right elbow angle.

The piston has fully fired now, and the right arm and wrist are straight and in line.

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Contact Ernesto Gonzalez 915-855-1847