MYMATURETIMES JUNE 2012 PAGE 2

Memorial Senior Center

Rummage Sale 9:00 a.m. 1:00 p.m. on June 4, 2012 The City of El Paso Parks and Recreation Department will host a rummage sale from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Monday, June 4, 2012 at Memorial Senior Center, 1800 Byron St. Information - (915) 562-4260

SOCIAL SECuRITY COLuMn

By SaMuel TRIMIaR SoCIal SeCuRITy PuBlIC affaIR SPeCIalIST In CleBuRne, TX

Ballroom Dancing
at Memorial Senior Center, 1800 Byron St. The City of El Paso Parks and Recreation Department is offering Ballroom Dancing at Memorial Senior Center, 1800 Byron St. The free dances are from 1:00 p.m. 3:00 p.m. on Mondays and Fridays featuring live music by the Silvertones Band. New participants are always welcome for the weekly dances and other activities at the centrally located Senior Center. Information - (915) 562-4260

THIS FATHERS DAY GIVE DAD SOME EXTRA HELP

You can probably think of a number of times when you asked your dad for a little extra help. Now, with Fathers Day right around the corner, is the perfect time to offer a little extra help for Dad. People across the nation are helping their dads save nearly $4,000 a year on the cost of Medicare prescription drugs. You can help your dad too and it wont cost you a dime. The high cost of prescription medication can be a burden on fathers (or anyone) who have limited income and resources. But there is Extra Help available through Social Security that could pay part of his monthly premiums, annual deductibles, and prescription co-payments. That Extra Help is estimated to be worth about $4,000 a year. To figure out whether your father is eligible, Social Security needs to know his income and the value of his savings, investments, and real estate (other than the home he lives in). To qualify for the Extra Help, he must be enrolled in Medicare and have: Income limited to $16,755 for an individual or $22,695 for a married couple living together. Even if his annual income is higher, he still may be able to get some help with monthly premiums, annual deductibles, and prescription copayments. Some examples where income may be higher include if he or his spouse: Support other family members who live with them; Have earnings from work; or Live in Alaska or Hawaii. Resources limited to $13,070 for an individual or $26,120 for a married couple living together. Resources include such things as bank accounts, stocks, and bonds. We do not count his house and a car (if he has one) as resources. Social Security has an easy-to-use online application that you can help complete for your dad. You can find it at www.socialsecurity.gov/prescriptionhelp. To apply by phone or have an application mailed to you, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1800-325-0778) and ask for the Application for Help with Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Costs (SSA1020). Or go to the nearest Social Security office. To learn more about the Medicare prescription drug plans and special enrollment periods, visit www.medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-6334227; TTY 1-877-486-2048). Think of all the times youve asked Dad for some extra help. This Fathers Day, give your dad a little extra help he can use year-round a savings of up to $4,000 a year on his Medicare prescription drugs through Extra Help available from Social Security.

X-Box Kinect Bowling Tournament

June 28, 2012 at Hilos de Plata Senior Center The City of El Paso Parks and Recreation Department and Humana Inc. will host an X-Box Kinect Bowling Tournament at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 28, 2012 at Hilos de Plata Senior Center, 4451 Delta Dr. The event is open to Seniors, 50 years of age and older and will be free. Information (915) 533-3207

As if these changes are not enough, other barriers of healthy eating may arise. Taste buds change with age making some foods less desirable. Medication and even some medical conditions seniors experience can cause loss of appetite. Some seniors may feel less apt to prepare healthy meals for themselves. Preparing meals and eating alone can be lonely. They may find cooking for one cumbersome and resort to quick meals with little nutritional value. For these reasons, seniors are at risk for malnutrition as well as subsequent physical and mental complications from lack of calories and nutrients. The benefits of healthy eating are an important part of overall good health. Healthy, well-balanced diets support physical strength, mental wellbeing, increased immunity, and cardiovascular health. Those who consume regular nutritious meals are less susceptible to fatigue and bouts of depression, and are able to main-

tain adequate weight control. For seniors, healthy eating becomes imperative in sustaining independent lifestyles within their own homes.

Recognizing Hunger or Malnutrition in Seniors.

Sometimes the signs of hunger or under-nutrition are hard to detect.

problems. Look for bruising,

[1] Watch for physical

dental difficulties, or sudden or sustained weight gain or weight loss.

[2] Ask seniors about

have their tastes or preferences changed?

their eating habits. How

[3] Talk to a doctor. Discuss nutritional needs or problems specific to the loved ones unique needs or management of diseases. Continues on next page

PICTURE FOR ILLUSTRATION ONLY

The normal aging process instigates changes throughout the body. Perhaps the most important change seniors undergo relates to nutrition. As a body ages, so does its nutritional requirements. Seniors may need to adjust vitamin and mineral intake depending on their gender, metabolic rate and for disease management purposes. Depending on a seniors individual needs, caloric intake may need to be monitored to ensure good health.

Tips for Healthy Eating

MYMATURETIMES JUNE 2012 PAGE 3

MYMATURETIMES JUNE 2012 PAGE 4

Healthy Eating...

Continued from page 3 Recognizing Hunger or Malnutrition in Seniors...

Food Guide Pyramid for Older Adults

The Tufts University Food Guide Pyramid for Older Adults is geared to help people 50 years or olderand especially those 70 and oldereat a healthful diet. As you age, you need less food to maintain your weight. However, your need for vitamins and minerals may stay the same or even increase. Thats why it is important to choose a variety of nutrient-rich foods everyday. And remember to include physical activity such as walking, climbing stairs or yard work as part of your daily routine. unIQue nuTRIenT neeDS The flag at the top of the pyramid signals special consideration for calcium, vitamin D and vita-min B12. You need higher levels of calcium and vitamin D to keep bones strong. Nonfat or lowfat milk provide an excellent source ofcalcium and vitamin D. Nonfat dairy products offer the best sources of calcium. Because many older adults can not efficiently use the vitamin B12 that is found in animal foods, vitamin B12fortified foods such as breakfast cereals or supplements are better absorbed. Check with your physician or health care provider to find out if you need supplements. Also, contact your health care provider when your food choices are limited over a period of time due to illness, chewing problems, lack of appetite or inability to shop or prepare food. Here is a list of how much calcium, vitamin D and vitamin B12 is needed each day for adults over 50: Calcium1,200 milligrams(mg) Vitamin D400 International Units (IU) for adults 5170 and 600 IU for those over 70. Do not exceed these recommendations. Vitamin B122.4 micrograms(mcg)

pharmacist. They

[4] Check with a

can warn you of the potential for drug-food interactions.

its during mealtime. This is the best

time to observe eating habits first-hand.

[5] Have your vis-

Make the Pyramid Work for You! FOOD GROuP

low- and nonfat Dairy Products

RECOMMEnDATIOnS
Eat or drink 3 or more servings of low- or nonfat dairy products. If you have trouble digesting milk products, try lactose-free dairy products, or add lactase to milk.

EXAMPLES OF SERVInG SIzES

1 cup low- or nonfat milk or yogurt 1 1/2 oz lowfat cheese

Senior Food Guide Pyramid

Our Nutritional Needs Change as we Age. Even though seniors may not need to consume as much food as they used to in order to maintain their weight, the amounts and types of nutrients they need changes. The Food Pyramid Guide for Older Adults is a helpful tool to understand the changing nutritional needs of seniors. Maintaining the right balance of food groups and vitamins is important for all of usespecially our aging loved ones. And research shows a positive relationship between getting the right nutrition and physical, mental and emotional health.

Dry Beans and nuts, fish, Poultry, lean Meat, and eggs

Eat 2 or more servings of these protein-rich foods. Beans are a good source of fiber, protein and other nutrients. Choose fish, skinless poultry, lean meat or eggs.

11 1/2 cup cooked lentils or dry beans 1 1/2 cup chili 4 Tbsp peanut butter 2 3 oz. fish, skinless poultry or lean meatbaked, broiled or grilled 1/2 cup canned tuna 1 egg or 1/4 cup egg substitute 1 cup romaine lettuce 1/2 cup winter squash or sweet potato 3/4 cup 100% vegetable juice 1/2 cup carrots 1/2 cup cooked spinach

BrightColored Vegetables

Eat 3 or more servings of bright colored fresh, frozen, or canned vegetables. Look for dark green,red, orange and/or yellow vegetables for best nutrients.

Continues on page 9

MYMATURETIMES JUNE 2012 PAGE 5

Area Agency on Aging

Gilbert Blancas

MYMATURETIMES JUNE 2012 PAGE 6

Terrie Todd from Comfort Keepers

April Sanchez

Michelle Salinas from Bienvivir

MYMATURETIMES JUNE 2012 PAGE 7

Healthy Hearts with Parks fun Walks (2012)

Open to all ages in the City June 9 Nations Tobin Sports Center (915) 757-2743 8831 Railroad Dr. July 7 Gary Del Palacio Recreation Ctr. (915) 629-7312 3001 Parkwood Dr. August 18 Grandview Senior Center (915) 566-1217 3134 Jefferson Ave. September 8 Polly Harris Senior Center (915) 581-0525 650 Wallenberg Dr. One time registration fee of $5 per participant (includes all walks and t-shirt) Pre-register at any City Recreation Center Registration at 7:30 a.m. on day of walk at walk day location All walks start at 8:00 a.m.

Information - (915) 544-0753

MYMATURETIMES JUNE 2012 PAGE 8

Skin Cancer and Seniors

The danger of developing skin cancer is something people have become more aware of over the years. Gone are the days of soaking in baby oil and iodine, worshipping the sun, and bronzing skin to get those glorified tan lines. As skin cancer awareness has steadily increased over the years, many people have replaced tanning lotion with sunscreen, while exercising caution when spending time in the sun. While it is never

too late to begin protecting your skin from damaging UV rays, experts say sunburns experienced early in life can cause skin cancer in later years. However, damage caused by the suns rays is cumulative, spanning a persons entire lifetime in the sun. Knowing this, it may not be surprising to learn that cases of skin cancer among seniors are more prevalent than in the younger population. Skin cancer among seniors is a serious matter. In fact, research indicates that over 50% of deaths associated with skin cancer occur in people over the age of 65. Perhaps this is because some older adults, unaware of the suns continuous damaging rays, think the danger of skin cancer is not as high as they age. But it is critical that seniors protect their skin from the sun as aging skin loses its ability to protect itself. Additionally, current sun exposure further harms old sun damage, and inhibits the skins ability to protect it from cancer. It also may become harder to detect clues of cancer on the skin as the skin matures with aging. Wrinkles and decreased elasticity due to aging change the overall appearance of skin. Age spots, dryness and other skin

conditions seniors suffer make it harder to detect abnormal cancerous lesions.

melanoma are not as likely to

have a good prognosis as younger generations may be. Early detection of melanoma can literally mean the difference between life and death. Any signs of moles that are raised, change in shape, have jagged edges, discolorations, or signs of bleeding should be viewed by a doctor immediately. Other skin abnormalities should be checked out with a doctor, as well. While not all skin cancer lesions are malignant, it is important as a person ages to be proactive in detecting skin cancer. Regular self-examinations of moles and other skin spots are crucial. Yearly appointments with a healthcare professional to examine all moles on the body are essential.

Seniors who develop

MYMATURETIMES JUNE 2012 PAGE 9

Food Guide Pyramid for Older Adults

Make the Pyramid Work for You, Continued from page 4 FOOD GROuP RECOMMEnDATIOnS EXAMPLES OF SERVInG SIzES
Deep-Colored fruit Eat 2 or more servings of fresh, frozen, dried, or canned fruit packed in juice. Those with deep colors typically have more nutrients. Choose 100% fruit juice. Juices fortified with calcium provide a non-dairy calcium source. 1 medium peach or banana 1/2 cup berries or sliced melon 1/4 cup dried apricots or raisins 3/4 cup 100% orange juice M E R I D I A N Medical/Ostomy Supply, Inc.

Whole, enriched Eat 6 or more servings of highand fortified Grains fiber, fortified, or whole grains and Cereals such as brown rice, whole-wheat pasta, and bran cereal.

1/2 cup raisin bran or oatmeal 1 slice whole-wheat bread 1/2 cup cooked enriched pasta or rice

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

Water/liquids

Consume eight, 8-ounce glasses of water or beverages such as fruit or vegetable juice, milk, reduced sodium soup, tea or coffee each day.

8 oz. water 8 oz. tea or coffee 8 oz. reduced sodium soup 8 oz. nonfat milk

TIPS foR HealTHful eaTInG

uSE SPARInGLY items that appear at the top of the pyramid. of butter.

SuGAR adds calories, but not

nutrients to the diet. Limit foods and beverages with added sugar.

SATuRATED AnD TRAnS FATS

raise levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), the so called bad cholesterol. Meat and full fat dairy products contain saturated fat. Trans fats are found in traditional stick margarines, shortenings and hydrogenated vegetable oils and foods made with these fats. Choose vegetable oils such as canola, soybean, corn and olive oil. Use tub margarine instead

SALT raises blood pressure in some people. Prepare foods with less salt/sodium and choose reduced sodium soups and frozen entrees. HIGH-FIBER foods help to promote regularity. Dry beans, fruits, vegetables, whole grains and cereals, and nuts offer high-fiber choices. Be sure to drink more water if you increase your fiber intake.

and are more likely to become dehydrated. Some medications may contribute to this problem by increasing your need for water. Alcoholic beverages should not count toward your water/liquids intake.

Hablamos Espaol!

1815 Montana Ave.

(located at the Montana Shopping Village strip mall)

WATER/LIQuIDS are needed

everyday. As you get older you have a decreased sense of thirst Continues on page 11
Copyright 2002 Tufts University

El Paso, TX. 79902

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

MYMATURETIMES JUNE 2012 PAGE 10

By: Doppler Dave Speelman

The Season of Dust Devils

Youre likely to see this form in El Paso on clear, dry, hot afternoons. In fact, if you cross its path it may just throw you to the ground. These are dust devils or what can be confused with a tornado. Dust devils form when you have extremely warm and dry air near the ground, it becomes so hot like a bubble and it rises rapidly. As it rises up, it rotates. Once the warm and unstable air gets used up or cut off, the dust devil rapidly weakens and falls apart. Dust devils typically last only a few minutes but can go on for much longer. Its not uncommon for wind speeds to approach sixty to seventy miles per hour. Typical widths of dust devils range from 10 to 300 feet, with an average height of approximately 500 to 1000 feet (the height of around a fifty story building). This vortex of wind generally forms on the boundary between an irrigated farm and a dry desert or roadway. Dust devils will typically spin up between the hours of eleven in the morning and two in the afternoon. Thats generally when the suns heat is the most intense. Although most dust devils are weak, the stronger ones can do light structural damage to weaker buildings, damage power poles and power lines and even rock your vehicle if it crosses your path. Contrary to popular belief, they are not small or weak tornadoes because they are not associated with severe thunderstorms. Here is a picture of a Dust devil that formed Sunday, April 22nd in El Paso off Loop 375.

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.

Photo courtesy of Sherri Bryant

MYMATURETIMES JUNE 2012 PAGE 11

alzheimers Progress Is Cruel and one-Way

Dr. David Lipschitz Alzheimer's is a gradually progressive disease that eventually leads to relentless declines in memory, with loss of virtually every aspect of intellectual function. Early on, the disease is nothing more than a minor disability. Short-term memory is impaired, but with strong family support, compulsive medical care and perhaps the use of medications to slow the rate of progression of the disease, an individual can have many productive years and be perfectly able to manage in the community and enjoy life with family and friends. At this stage of the illness, anything is possible. But as the disease relentlessly progresses, memory insidiously declines and with time, many different elements of intellectual function become impaired. The patient may remain physically healthy but intellectually, he or she becomes more and more dependent and closely anchored to his or her major caregiver, either a spouse or an offspring. At Continued from page 9 of the brain that keeps us centered, sensible and prevents us from doing things we should not. It keeps us inhibited. Frontal-lobe involvement in Alzheimer's disease creates disinhibition. A deacon of the church may start to curse or behave inappropriately sexually, physically or verbally saying or doing things that before would be truly unthinkable. Sadly, there is not much that can be done to reverse or improve this embarrassing and difficult behavior, except to be understanding and realize that the symptoms are not the patient's fault and that our role as loved ones must be to protect and avoid disasters. Just as serious are hallucinations and delusions. Fortunately, hallucinations are usually not frightening. The patient may see children playing or have discussions with friends who are not there. These should never be treated unless they make the patient agitated or distressed. If this does occur, medications can be prescribed that can prove helpful. These drugs increase the risk of death and stroke in older people and must be used only if absolutely needed and as a last resort. Continues on next page

this stage of the disease, the patient may follow the caregiver from room to room and become agitated if the caregiver leaves his or her sight for even an instant. Ever so slowly, the person we cherished and loved, who we recognized physically, becomes more and more of a stranger. It is a truly cruel disease. During the course of the disease, many problems occur. Most alarming is the involvement of the front of the brain, which plays a key role in language and judgment. It is the part

The benefits of good nutrition are many:

Improved energy and feeling of wellness Strengthened immunity Sharpened mental focus Stronger bones and muscles Improved weight control, digestion and regularity Better cardiovascular health Reduced incidence of mood swings and depression, and so much more...

MYMATURETIMES JUNE 2012 PAGE 12

Preparing to Care for Aging Loved Ones

There are many joys families experience within the relationships they have with senior relatives. Grandma and Grandpa are often able to tell the best tales of times past. The memories they impart during family gettogethers, along with valuable family history seniors recount, become the ties that bind many families together. Our elder ancestors are the very roots that strengthen each relatives sense of place, comfort and knowledge of how they came to be in this world. Along with the joys seniors bring to our lives come hard decisions that may eventually need to be made regarding their ability to live alone. Some seniors suffer mental or physical limitations that make it difficult for them to safely care for themselves. In these instances, family members find themselves in the position of deciding who can provide the best care for their loved ones. Typically, this decisionmaking process from recognition to solution can take approximately a year and a half. Usually a female family member such as a daughter or granddaughter is the one who makes the final decision of care. In families where there is no daughter, this role often falls on the shoulders of the oldest sons wife (the daughter-in-law). There are two types of caregiving scenarios to consider choosing a willing family member to provide care or hiring a home care company to deliver caregiving services for seniors. Deciding to become a family caregiver can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Family caregivers often find their relationships with their senior loved ones enriched and satisfying beyond words. It feels good to give the gift of time. Even so, becoming a family caregiver can have a negative impact in some ways, as well. Many family caregivers experience financial difficulties by either having to miss work to care for their loved one or by supporting two households. Family caregivers also become susceptible to suffering depression due to the physical and emotional impact caregiving for a family member can have. Careful consideration of all parties involved should be taken before a family member takes on a caregiving role. An alternative to family caregiving is to hire a professional and experienced agency to provide care and support. Comfort Keepers is one such home care agency that focuses on serving the senior population. Comfort Keepers perform duties ranging from occasional housekeeping to daily companionship for seniors who need close monitoring. Comfort Keepers is an expert in helping families make these crucial decisions. As a leader in the home care industry, the company has devised a list of critical questions for families to ask when interviewing caregiving companies. That list can be found here: http://www.comfortkeepers.com/informationcenter/news-and-highlights/in-home-care-formom-and-dad. Choosing a company that best fits a loved ones needs and facilitates a safe environment for a senior in his or her own home is essential for success. Comfort Keepers conducted extensive research among families and other home care resources to determine the best way to broach caregiving with a senior loved one. Simply initiating the topic can cause tension and unease. This decision can inspire guilt for the person making the decision as well as resentment from the senior who needs care. Visit http://www.comfortkeepers.com/family-education-center/starting-the-conversation to find ideas that help families understand the core issues surrounding caregiving. This article also gives helpful insight as to how to discuss the matter without hurting feelings or making a senior feel uncomfortable. In any event, deciding a loved one needs additional care can be a daunting experience. Deciding who can best care for a senior loved one is a very important decision. The end result should make everyone happy and provide peace of mind for all involved.

alzheimer...
Continued from page 11 An example is a medication called Risperdal. (It has been so widely misused that an Arkansas trial judge recently imposed a fine of $1.2 million on the pharmaceutical company that aggressively marketed the drug for nonindicated reasons.) Occasionally, patients with advanced Alzheimer's may develop disruptive behavior and can become violent. The patient may fail to recognize someone he sees daily. If this person is not appropriately trained and attempts to persuade the patient to get dressed, bathe or go to the dining room, he may lash out because he sees a total stranger attempting to manhandle him. Often the patient is blamed and medication is prescribed that does more harm than good. Well-trained staff who truly understands the subtleties of patient care can minimize problems. Many caregivers experience great pain when their loved one no longer recognizes them or asks who they are and demands to see his spouse. Too much noise and too many family members can make things worse, leading to more agitation and difficult behaviors. At this stage of the disease, the patient can no longer be left alone and on occasion, may wander away. Dealing with Alzheimer's truly takes a village. The nurse, social worker, psychotherapist and physician all play key roles in improving the quality of life of the patient and the family. Just as important are community support groups such as the Alzheimer's Association and Alzheimer's Arkansas. Crises occur frequently, and a team is needed to obtain the appropriate help. By far, the hardest role is to persuade the family that it is time to let go and that they have done everything possible. But as the patient becomes more dependent and disabled, a nursing home or memory disorder center is the best choice to assure a better quality of life. 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

Out & About

CEnTRAl/ noRTHEAST
The Complete Works of William Shakespeare Abridged El Paso Playhouse,
2501 Montana, presents the parody of the Bards works May 25-June 16. Directed by Vanessa Keyser.

MYMATURETIMES JUNE 2012 PAGE 13

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

Latin Summer Bash An

evening of salsa, bachata, cumbia, cha-cha, reggaetton, techno, merengue and more is 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. Saturday, June 2, at Partida

EASTSIdE
El Paso Psychic Fair The fair
is 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, June 2-3, at the Hawthorn Inn, 1700 Airway (at Boeing). Admission: $5 for both days (private readings not included with admission). Free admission with active

duty military I.D. Information: 3456245 or elpasopsychicfair.com. The fair features aura photos, handmade New Age crystal and gemstone jewelry, spirit writing, Feng Shui products, aromatherapy and readings by 14 professional psychic readers and mediums from across Texas and New Mexico. Readings offered in English and Spanish.

RAC & Roll Health Fair

BorderRAC will host a health and safety fair 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, June 2, at Bassett Place Mall, promoting education, prevention and information on bike safety, burn prevention, car seat safety and awareness, senior fall prevention,... Continues on next page Hall, 2608 Fort Blvd, featuring DJ Orlando DJ Beetz Garcia. Sponsored by Dance for Dreams, a nonprofit that supports amateur athletics. Lounge music, karaoke and hors doeuvres offered until 9:30 p.m. (while available) with dance lessons 9:30 to 10 p.m. and dancing 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Admission: $12 in advance; $15 at the door (parking and security provided). Information: Deliris Montanez (Facebook) or (704) 293-4307.

Showtimes are 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. Tickets: $10 ($8 seniors, $7 military/students with ID). Information: 532-1317, elpasoplayhouse.com. The wildly shortened plays by William Shakespeare are played by only three actors.

Crossland Gallery 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. Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays. Admission is free. Information: 534-7377. Showing June 1-23: Works in various media by Cre-Arte Art Academy Students. Cre-Arte Art Academy, owned and operated by Teresa Fernandez, offers arts programs for youth and adults. Gala opening is 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, June 1.

PHOTOS FOR ILLUSTRATION ONLY

Summer Recital El Paso

Summer Music Festival winners Georgia Smits, piano (1st Place) and Juan Garza, baritone (2nd place) will perform at 2 p.m. Sunday, June 3, at First Christian Church, 901 Arizona (enter from Ange). Accompanist is Margaret Hagedorn. Admission is free. Information: 542-1110.

MYMATURETIMES JUNE 2012 PAGE 14

Continued from page 13... blood pressure screening, ambulance and emergency trailer displays, underage drinking awareness, family emergency preparedness, pool safety and car seat safety. Admission is free. Information: 838-3200 or contact@borderrac.org.

at 7 p.m. Tickets: $30 in advance; $35 day of show.

MISSIon VAllEY
Chivas El Paso Patriots Soccer The team hosts Texas at 8
p.m. Thursday, May 31, at Patriots Stadium, 6941 Industrial. The Patriots are an affiliate team with Chivas

Bow Wow Club 101 presents

the rapper at Sunday, June 3, with special guest Ace Hood. Doors open

shops, games, interactive stations and presentations on climate change, recycling and dos and donts for setting up an aquarium. Special appearance by the Coca-Cola bear and showing of The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About That! Ocean Commotion movie with free popcorn and tote bags. Sunnys birthday bash will have games and activities, as well as a parade.

El Paso Conservatory of Dance The classic ballet groups

annual recital is 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 2:30 p.m. Sunday, June 1-3, at Chamizal National Memorial, 800 S. San Marcial. Tickets: $6-$8. Information: Marta Katz, 760-6062.
PHOTOS FOR ILLUSTRATION ONLY

de Guadalajara. Information/tickets: 771-6620 or elpasopatriots.com.

El Paso Zoo 4001 E. Paisano.

Zoo summer entrance hours are 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. Zoo admission is $10 for ages 13 to 61; $7.50 for ages 62 and older and active duty military (including spouse) with ID; $6 ages 3 to 12; and free for ages 2 and under. Zoo members admitted free. Information: 532-8156, 5211850 or elpasozoo.org. World Oceans Day and Sunny the Sea Lions Birthday celebration are 10 .m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, June 2-3, with work-

doWnToWn/ WESTSIdE
Families in Crisis Walk/Run
The Lee and Beulah Moor Childrens Home hosts the 9th annual 8K competitive race and 1-mile fun walk 8 a.m. Saturday, June 2, at Sunland Park Racetrack and Casino, 1200 Futurity Drive in Sunland Park.

Trophies awarded to top three male and female runners in each age group; to the largest team and in other categories. All runners receive t-shirts and goodie bags. Registration begins at 7 a.m. Information: Renee Tanner, 544-8777 or leemoor.org.

MYMATURETIMES JUNE 2012 PAGE 15

Paws, Listen & Dance The

music and dance benefit for the Humane Society of El Paso is at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 2, at the El Paso Public Library Main Branch, 501 N. Oregon. Admission is $15 ($7.50 for children, $5 for children with library card). Tickets, information: 2047228 or 474-3790.

ries continues Saturdays through July 28 (no event June 30). Admission: $6 ($10 per couple); cash only, no outside food or drinks. Information: 541-4481.

the El Paso Convention and Performing Arts Centers and the El Paso Convention and Visitors Bureau. No outside food or beverages, or pets allowed. Information: 534-0675, or alfrescofridays.com.

ver City, May 30-June 2, at Southwest Horsemans Park, U.S. 180 East (at Caballero Road). Tickets/time to be announced. Information: (575) 534-5030.

Puppenfee: The Fairy Doll

The Ballet Centre School of Classical Dance, directed by David Alejandro Duran, presents its 28th annual recital at 2:30 p.m. Sunday,June 3, at UTEPs Magoffin Auditorium, with more than 50 students ages 4-17 will dance as teddy bears, soldiers, baby dolls, clowns and more in this tale of a magical doll that comes to life in the imagination of a little girl. Admission is free. Information: 544-4348 or balletcentre.us.

SoUTHERn nEW MExICo

First New Mexico Bank Wild Wild West Pro Rodeo The
annual PRCA Rodeo rides into Sil-

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. Continues on next page

Sunland Art Gallery The El

Paso Art Association co-op gallery is in Sunland Park Mall, second level across from The Greenery, with 30 El Paso artists represented. Hours are 10 a.m. to 8.m. Monday through Saturday, noon to 6 p.m. Sunday. Information: 584-3117, 474-0053 or sunlandartgallery.com. Showing June 1-29: The Pastel Society of El Pasos 16th annual members show with new works by members Candy Mayer, Mitzi Quirarte, Tina Yetter Jones, Nancy Bissell, Winfrey Hearst, Bob Zeissel and Ruthanna Droke and more. Opening reception is 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, June 1.

Barbara Driscoll School of Ballet The ballet school presents

its 51st annual student recital at 7 p.m. Saturday, June 2, at the Plaza Theatre, featuring students from preschool to adult, in technique performances and a childrens ballet. Admission is free. Information: 5849903.

Dancing in the City The City

of El Paso Museums and Cultural Affairs Department and Conventions and Visitors Bureau present the outdoor dance concerts 7 to 10 p.m. Saturdays at Arts Festival Plaza, featuring local and regional performers. . Calle 66 (Salsa) from Albuquerque opens the series June 2. Se-

Alfresco! Fridays Sange Gitana (flamenco) performs at 6

p.m. Friday, June 1, at Arts Festival Plaza (between El Paso Museum of Art and Plaza Theatre). Presented by

PHOTOS FOR ILLUSTRATION ONLY

PHOTOS FOR ILLUSTRATION ONLY

MYMATURETIMES JUNE 2012 PAGE 16

Continued from page 15 ...Tuesdays and Thursdays (except show dates). Information: (575) 3364800, (888) 818-7872 or spencertheater.com. Doug Montgomery The New Mexico Piano Man presents a cabaret-style show at 8 p.m. Saturday, June 2. Montgomery is equally at home trilling complicated compositions of his own creation and classics from Rachmaninoff to Debussy and Puccini, Gershwin to Porter, Rogers & Hart, Billy Joel and the Beatles. Tickets: $46 and $49. Lasagna buffet served at 6 p.m. for $20.

p.m. Friday and 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, June 1-2, at Ruidoso High Performing Arts Center, 125 Warrior

Piecemeal - Las Cruces Commu- 1200 or lcctnm.org.

nity Theatre present the musical comedy by Howard Odentz June 1-

The Day They Kidnapped The Pope Lincoln County

Community Theater presents the comedy by Joao Bethencourt at 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, June 1-2, at the ENMU-R Annex, 203 White Mountain Dr. in Ruidoso. Admission: $10 at the door. Information: (575) 336-1812 or lcct-nm.com

PHOTOS FOR ILLUSTRATION ONLY

Next to Normal Hub Theatre Group presents one of only eight musicals in history to win both the Tony and Pulitzer Prize at 7:30

Drive in Ruidoso, N.M. Contains adult language; recommended for mature teens and adults. Tickets: $20 ($10 students/seniors 65 and older). Information: 1-806-300-5962 or hubtheatregroup.org.

17. Directed by Autumn Gieb. This musical comedy takes a new look at Mary Shelleys classic novel about the events leading to the creation of the Frankenstein monster. Performances are 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays. Tickets: $7-$10. Information: (575) 523-

MYMATURETIMES JUNE 2012 PAGE 17

Q&A

NOT IF, BUT WHEN

Knowing when to say goodbye to a pet is a decision made with love
By Gina Spadafori Universal Uclick Never before have I been in a position to make end-of-life decisions for two pets at the same time. With a nearly 16-year-old Sheltie being treated for chronic kidney failure and a 7-year-old retriever in chemotherapy for a malignancy that turned up on her annual wellness check, you can well imagine that I spend a fair amount of time thinking that some hard decisions arent that far away. Both of my dogs are doing phenomenally well right now, and I am as comfortable as I can be with the decisions in our future. But I know that choosing to end a pets life is the hardest decision we make when it comes to our pets, and Marty and I can tell you from decades of experience that its a decision that never gets any easier. Everyone makes the decision a little differently. Some pet lovers do not wait until their pets discomfort becomes chronic, untreatable pain, and they choose euthanasia much sooner than others would. Some owners use an animals appetite as the guide when an old or ill animal cannot be tempted into eating, they reason, he has lost most interest in life. And some owners wait until theres no doubt the time is at hand and later wonder if they delayed a bit too long. Theres no absolute rule, and every method for deciding is right for certain pets and certain owners at certain times. You do the best you can, and then you try to put the decision behind you and deal with the grief. The incredible advances in veterinary medicine in the past couple of decades have made the decisions even more difficult for many people. Not too long ago, the best you could do for a seriously ill pet was to make her comfortable until that wasnt possible anymore. Nowaalso ask yourself: Am I doing right by my pet, or am I just holding on because I cant bear to say goodbye? If its the latter, you know what decision you have to make. Many people are surprised at the powerful emotions that erupt after a pets death, and they can be embarrassed by their grief. Often, we dont realize were grieving not only for the pet we loved, but also for the special time the animal represented and for the ties to other people in our lives. The death of a cat who was a gift as a kitten from a friend who has died, for example, may trigger bittersweet memories of another love lost. Taking care of yourself is important when dealing with pet loss. Some people the Its just a pet crowd wont understand the loss and may shrug off grief over a pets death as foolish. I find that the company of other animal lovers is very important. Seek them out to share your feelings, and dont be shy about getting professional help to get you through a difficult time. Choosing to end a pets suffering is a final act of love and nothing less. Knowing that your decisions are guided by that love is what helps us all through the sad and lonely time of losing a cherished animal companion. And in the end and I hope that end is a long time away yet it is love that will see me through, as well.

Talk to your vet about dog flu

Q: I keep hearing about dog flu. I get my flu shot every year. Should I get one for my dog, too? via email A: Canine influenza virus, or H3N8, is one of many organisms that can make dogs cough. Most of these illnesses are no more dangerous than your getting a cold, but like a cold, they can turn into something more serious in a small number of cases, especially in the very young, very old or those with other health problems. H3N8 was first discovered in racing greyhounds in 2004, but its now been found all over the country, in pet dogs as well as those in kennels and shelters. Its a good idea to ask your veterinarian if shes seen cases of it in your area, and whether she thinks your dog needs to be vaccinated. Be aware, however, that the vaccine might not protect your dog from getting sick with the disease, although it may make his symptoms less severe. Vaccinated dogs can still transmit the H3N8 to other dogs, too. No matter what causes your dogs respiratory illness, and regardless of whether hes been vaccinated, always stay alert for signs that things are taking a turn for the worse. Symptoms of canine influenza and other forms of respiratory disease include nasal discharge and a cough that ranges from so mild you almost wonder if your dog is just clearing his throat all the way to a very deep, disturbing cough. If your dogs fever goes over 104 degrees, he seems depressed, his nasal discharge is green, or he has trouble breathing, its lights and sirens time: Head for the veterinary ER. Dr. Marty Becker Do you have a pet question? Send it to petconnection@gmail.com.

McKenzie at Camp Unleashed last fall. She is holding her own in her fight against cancer for now.

days, nearly every advantage of human medicine from chemotherapy to pacemakers to advanced pain relief is available to our pets. But the addition of high-level care shouldnt change much when it comes to easing suffering: If you can have a realistic expectation that a course of treatment will improve your pets life rather than simply prolong it then those options should be considered. But you must

MYMATURETIMES JUNE 2012 PAGE 18

animals first

41 Yaks 43 Theater award 44 Moral guideline 45 Mort, the comedian 47 OPEC unit 48 Coeur d'___, ID 51 Contrasting music, as in a march 53 McNeile's sleuth in '30s movies 59 Bones, in anatomy 60 Low temperature physics 61 Sugar source 62 Fathoms 63 Native East African 64 Litmus, for one 65 Fr. holy women 66 Lip

DoWn
1 Aspersion 2 Prefix with gram or logue 3 Dancer Cunningham 4 Wholly 5 Going full tilt 6 Keen 7 Looped 8 Hollow stone 9 Becomes 10 Diminutive NBA playmaker 11 Apple or quince, e.g. 12 GI's cure-all pill 15 PBS' "Science Guy" 17 Scent, to Ringo Starr 20 Cooper's Mohican

aCRoSS
1 ___ Valley: L.A. exurb 5 Booty 9 Child's meas. 12 Colonist asked to speak for himself 13 Reduce 14 ___ my word! 16 West Indies island 18 Covered with frost 19 Legendary outback adventurer

21 English prep school since 1440 22 Thickheaded 23 Mercury or Saturn, e.g. 26 Escape clauses 28 Approximately 31 Delete, in a way 33 Newswoman Braver 35 Hosni's predecessor 36 Long Island resort 38 Cambodian leader Lon ___ 39 Unyielding 40 River mouth

23 Calx or corundum 24 Brazil red 25 WWII admiral, in the South Pacific 27 Greek colonnades 29 Long-ago warrior in 16 Across 30 Triacetate fiber 32 Arouse 34 Gooney bird 37 Led 42 Scrunch one's shoulders 46 Physiological thresholds 49 Bowstring holders 50 Fine-feathered specimen 52 ___ vincit amor : love conquers all 53 Short haircut 54 Manipulated 55 Unit of force 56 Some paintings 57 Platoon ldrs. 58 Clock rdg., after a spring forward

MYMATURETIMES JUNE 2012 PAGE 19