Seasoned

seasoned

M ay 2017

Over 50 & living the good life!

Mental wellness

Lifting weights boosts brain power

Financial fitness

How to catch up on saving for retirement

Seniors EXPO Bryan event on May 10 features fun for seniors, useful information

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seasoned

A monthly publication of The Eagle, 1729 Briarcrest Drive, Bryan, TX 77802 PUBLISHER Crystal Dupre’ DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING Sean Lewis

DISPLAY ADVERTISING MANAGER Linda Brinkman SPECIAL PROJECTS EDITOR/ PUBLICATION DESIGNER Shauna Lewis shauna.lewis@theeagle.com

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Contents

How attitude can change everything Lifting weights helps improve brain power Physical therapy for pelvic pain Seniors EXPO Strategies for catching up on saving for retirement Tips for avoiding aches and pains when gardening How to save money on vacation Calendar

Photos by The Eagle

Cover photo: A guest plays a game at last year’s Seniors EXPO event at the Brazos County

Expo Complex in Bryan.

Above: A woman talks about goods at a vendor booth at the 2016 Seniors EXPO event, which featured a circus theme.

How attitude can change everything

Often, things aren’t what they appear. How we view what’s happening to and around us has a massive impact on the quality of our lives and relationships.

I remember the first day of my Intro. to Psychology class in college. The professor entered and promptly gave a pair of red glasses to a student in the first row. Then Gary roe he held up a white hosPice styrofoam cup.

“What color is this cup?” he asked.

“White,” the class said. “Red,” answered the student in the first row.

“And what color is this?” he asked, holding up a sheet of paper.

“White,” we said.“Red,” came the answer from the front.

This went on for several minutes, with the prof choosing random objects around the room. “Red,” was always the answer from the front row.

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The professor retrieved the red glasses. Holding them up, he said, “How you see life is determined by the lenses you look through. How you view circumstances and people will profoundly impact the quality of your life.”

How right he was, and still is.

We’ve all been wounded. We’ve all experienced loss, pain and dysfunction on some level. We’re all capable of tremendous good, and all of us have the potential of doing evil. Deep down, most of us want to be the best version of ourselves possible. We want our words, actions and lives to count for something - preferably something meaningful, even extraordinary.

Like my psychology professor said, much will be determined by the lenses we choose to look through.

My friend, Bill Bill and I met during my freshman year of college. At first, I saw Bill as, well, a little weird. Quirky. A nerd.

His appearance was always rumpled,

like he had slept in his clothes. It was obvious he didn’t use deodorant.

People shied away from Bill, but he didn’t seem aware of this. He was always smiling, engaging with people, seemingly never put off by the looks and rebuffs he constantly received. More than anything, Bill was thankful. He was always expressing gratitude.

I tried to ignore Bill, but he just kept coming. He was in a lot of my classes. We wound up in the same groups. He kept showing up in the dining hall and outside my dorm room. Over time, I let my guard down, and Bill began to share about his life.

Things had not been smooth for Bill. He was picked on and bullied for most of his school career. As his story leaked out in bits, he always managed a smile. This wasn’t some perpetual grin of denial or an attempt to hide from the past. His smile was real, authentic. His words were honest and unshaded. Bill was stunningly straightforward. I don’t think he had a deceptive bone is his body.

Bill grew on me. His infectious gratitude permeated everything. He faced challenge after challenge, and received wound after wound, but he always rose from the mat, grateful for what he learned from the experience.

My respect for him grew to be immense. Bill became a good friend.

After graduation, Bill contacted me several times a year. Life kept coming at him, and he kept saying, “Thank you.” He managed to see things as they were, and then found a way to be grateful. His reservoir of wisdom was astounding.

At age 40, Bill was diagnosed with lymphoma. I was stunned, and so was he. It wasn’t long, however, before Bill had turned that around, too. Every time we talked, he shared about all he was learning and how thankful he was for this friend, that doctor, this coverage, that opportunity, etc.

During his treatment I asked Bill,

See Gratefulness page 5 May 4, 2017 | 3

Lifting weights helps improve brain power

Ever slap yourself on the head for a dumb mistake, as I have? Who hasn’t? Inside all our brains is a resident dumbbell crying out for help.

Well, help may be on the way if you start using barbells. Recent research indicates that strength training may pump up thinking ability in seniors.

When it comes to Dr. Bill Klemm exercise, we all know The Memory Medic about the importance of aerobic exercise, like jogging, swimming or biking. But strength training is important, too. A recent study of 100 people aged 55 to 86 who had mild memory and thinking problems revealed that strength training improved their mental function. In the study, the volunteers did weight training twice a week moving weights up to 80 percent of their maximum strength. I can relate to the twice-a-week regimen because if I work out more than twice a week, I get too sore — there is not enough time for recovery between workouts.

The experiment compared a shamexercise group and a group of seniors undergoing 60-100 minute sessions for

six months. The sham-exercise group watched documentary movies during this time and did stretching exercises and seated calisthenics at a level that did not raise their resting heart rates.

The exercise group was supervised by one trainer for each four to five subjects.

In the exercise group, strength increased 23 to 52 percent, but it was the increase in lower body strength that caused the best improvement in thinking ability. Unexpectedly, weight training did not improve ability to memorize.

Aerobic capacity also improved, which should not be too surprising.

Try repeated lifting of heavy weights off the floor without getting short of breath. Surprisingly, the mental gains were proportional to the strength gains, not the aerobic capacity gains.

The benefits were still present a year after the workouts ended. A follow-up study showed that the mental function improvements were proportional to the muscle strength gains.

This study is consistent with prior studies. For example, one previous study had shown the same results in subjects that had no cognitive

impairment. In another report, weight training, but not aerobic exercise, improved thinking ability in older women who had mild cognitive impairment.

Why weight training improves thinking is not known. It could be that certain growth factors are responsible.

Other experiments have shown that weight training increases the levels of two growth factors (used to build muscle, I suppose). Maybe these growth factors have a side effect on stimulating growth of neural connections. Another possibility is that weight training reduces psychological stress and the levels of cortisol that otherwise impair neural connectivity.

As a practical matter, the data suggest that we all should get involved with weight training. My advice, based on my own experience, is to work out: • Under supervision of a trainer (initially) who understands the limitations of seniors.

• Two to three times a week.

• In sessions lasting at least an hour (including 15 minutes of aerobics, like treadmill or bike).

• Using 10 repetitions at a weight level you can handle without hurting

Physical therapy for pelvic pain

I have been having pain in my lower abdomen and pelvic region for the past two years. I am in my mid 60s. I have seen several specialists for my problem, but no one can tell me why I am having this pain. I will admit I have had some relief with medications, but the pain keeps coming back. I’ve read on the internet that a doctor of physical therapy that specializes in pelvic pain problems can be very helpful. Tell me and my friends how physical therapy can help eliminate my pelvic pain?

Chronic pelvic pain is a common and often unbearable problem that can have profound effects on the physical and Leon Bradway emotional health for both men and Physical Therapy women.

Is chronic pelvic pain a common problem for women? One research study found the incidence of chronic pelvic pain to be similar to that of migraine, back pain and asthma, making it one of the most common problems seen in medical practice for women ages 12 to 70. Additionally, around 9 percent

of women having hysterectomy surgery will develop pelvic pain or back pain within two years from their surgery. Personally, I think 9 percent is a very low number because many women just live with their pain.

Chronic pelvic pain (CPP) is not a specific disease, and the term CPP refers to the symptom of pain, specifically, the duration and location of the pain.

Pain is considered “chronic” when it has been present for at least six months. Patients with CPP may report pain in a variety of different areas in the region below the belly button. They may report pain both internally and externally; one side, both sides, or right in the middle; or shooting into the low back, belly, buttocks, hips or thighs. The pain may be related to a woman’s menstrual cycle, only occurring once in awhile, after having a baby, post-surgery or be constantly present.

Patients with CPP may describe pain with intercourse and changes in bowel and urinary habits.

See Pelvic pain page 5

4 | May 4, 2017

yourself. Rest as needed, and then do two more sets of 10 repetitions.

• With gradual increases in the weight load as you gain strength from increasing the reps at your customary weight.

Finally, let us remember the other benefits of weight training. Instead of growing old and feeble, the newfound strength will help prevent falls, strengthen our bones, and allow us to be more active physically.

For more information on fighting the ravages of aging, see Dr. Klemm’s recent book, “Improve Your Memory for a Healthy Brain. Memory Is the Canary in Your Brain’s Coal Mine.” It is available in e-book form at Amazon or in all formats at Smashwords.com. The book explains that doing things that improve your memory can at the same time delay and may even prevent age-induced mental decline. Authoritative, well researched and documented, it provides in-depth explanations on topics such as brain aging, relationships of memory with other brain functions, how to reduce absent-mindedness, the diseases of aging, and diet and supplements that do and do not help memory.

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Pelvic pain from page 4

CPP can be the result of a number of different disease processes or muscle imbalances. It can be difficult to identify the true origin of a patient’s symptoms, often leaving the sufferer with more questions than answers and a significant medical record of seeking various treatments without relief. However, it is important to know that you still have options when it comes to pain relief, and the answer is not always found in medications or surgery.

Physical therapy is usually a welcome addition to the medical management of CPP because it often results in significant pain relief and improvement in function, and provides strategies for patients to manage their

Gratefulness from page 3

“How are you doing with all this, honestly? Give it to me straight.”

“Well, brother, I could choose to focus on what I’ve lost and am losing.

That would kill my heart. I choose to focus on what I have. I can still see people, listen and love. Those are always the most powerful things I can do. Actually, lymphoma has helped me do this even more.”

Bill died two years later. He was calling people and posting on Facebook up until his final morning.

I still remember his last post, typed by a family member sitting next to his bed. “It’s time for me to go. I’m so grateful to have known all of you. I am so blessed. Now, it’s time for the next adventure.”

My heart was broken, but I was so proud of him. Bill was extraordinary, but then again, we all are - or can be.

Developing a grateful heart Grateful hearts don’t just happen.

They are usually forged through suffering, hardship and pain. One thankful heart benefits everyone.

Gratitude is like liquid light that spills out of the carrier’s heart onto the world around them.

How do we get there?

1. We must make a decision. “I resolve to develop a thankful heart.”

Better yet, speak as if it is already true. “I have a grateful heart. I will dig deep, find it and begin to exercise it.”

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pain more effectively. Pelvic pain can be caused by problems such as pelvic joint dysfunction; muscle imbalance within the muscles of the pelvic floor, trunk and/or hips; lack of coordination in the muscles related to bowel and bladder function; tender points in the muscles of the pelvic floor; pressure on one or more nerves in the pelvis; and weakness in the muscles of the pelvis and pelvic floor.

Pelvic pain can also be related to the presence of scar tissue after abdominal or pelvic surgery. There can also be an identifiable disease process related to pelvic pain; therefore it is important to consult your physician and explore other effective options to fully determine the cause of your pain.

Now let’s discuss how physical therapy can help relieve your pelvic pain. Physical therapy treatment typically does not directly target

the pelvic or abdominal organs.

Rather, PT treatment is based on the principal of referred pain and therefore, physical therapists may treat the muscle, nerve and joint consequences of organ dysfunction.

While this may or may not entirely eliminate the source of a person’s pain, it will reduce the person’s pain and improve overall function. Physical therapists are trained to evaluate and treat joint dysfunction, muscle tightness, weakness in muscle groups, nerve entrapments, scar tissue, tissue sensitivity and failed surgery, which are all potential causes of pelvic pain.

Physical therapists trained specifically in the area of pelvic health can confidently identify the possible generators of pelvic pain and develop a treatment plan specific to the patient.

A physical therapist trained in this area will utilize hands-on techniques

When we decide to have a grateful heart, we must go all in – 100 percent.

“I will do this. I will not back off. I will find the good in things. I will look through lenses of gratitude.”

2. Begin practicing thankfulness. A grateful heart must be continually nurtured and cultivated.Try this. Each morning, as soon as you get up, make a list of three things you are thankful for - people, events, situations, whatever. Speak your gratitude out loud. “I’m thankful for ...” Write them down in a journal or notebook. I personally prefer post-it notes. I stick them on my mirror and let them accumulate.

Each evening, try repeating the process with three more things you’re thankful for. This takes all of 30 seconds. It’s easy and painless.

Make this a habit and watch the impact over time. Your gratitude will grow by the day.

3. Find a gratitude partner. Get someone to go on this journey with you. You can encourage each other and hold one another accountable. You will have more fun and can celebrate victories together.

The human heart slips quickly.

We live in a largely negative world fascinated by disaster, conflict and bad news. We need grateful people in our lives.

I will never forget Bill. How could I? He’s unforgettable. What an amazing, grateful heart. I want to be like that.

Make the decision. Change the lenses. Practice thankfulness. Speak it. Write it. Share it. And watch what happens.

to address muscle tightness or targeted exercises to improve muscle strength and reduce faulty patterns of muscle recruitment. Other treatment strategies may include: biofeedback, retraining of muscles to improve coordination, postural training, strengthening of the abdominal core muscles, acupressure techniques, and laser, dry needling and relaxation and mindfulness techniques. You should be aware of all your options when it comes to treatment of pelvic pain. A physical therapist trained in the area of pelvic pain can provide effective, natural, non-invasive treatment to help alleviate your pelvic pain.

Leon Bradway is a doctor of physical therapy and director of the Sports, Back and Pain Management Clinic. See www. bvphysicaltherapy.com.

Gary Roe is a best-selling author, chaplain and grief counselor with Hospice Brazos Valley. Visit his website for free resources at www.garyroe.com or contact him at 979-821-2266 or groe@ hospicebrazosvalley.org.

Change the lenses If we change the color of our lenses, it will change the way we see life. We will live differently, and the impact could be extraordinary.

May 4, 2017 | 5

Day for

Seniors EXPO on May 10 will include us

By STACY CANTU

Photo by Aaron Beagle Commerce National Bank decorated its booth for the 2016 Seniors EXPO at the Brazos County Expo Complex in Bryan. The event featured a circus theme. This year’s event on May 10 will feature a Vegas theme.

Right at Home representatives chat with visitors to their booth last year.

Photo by Aaron Beagle

6 | May 4, 2017

Special to The Eagle The Eagle’s 16th annual Seniors EXPO event in Bryan on May 10 will include vendors, information for seniors, entertainment and door prizes.

The expo will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Brazos County Expo Complex, at 5827 Leonard Road. The free event is sponsored by H-E-B, and is planned by a committee of various business representatives.

Seniors EXPO will provide an opportunity for seniors to see what resources are available in the Brazos Valley, said Jessica Eastepp, Seniors EXPO chairwoman.

“It’s a great atmosphere for everyone who attends,” Eastepp said.

“Every year there is a theme. This year the theme is Vegas. The vendors participate in a booth contest, which the seniors love. There is themed

decorations all throughout the building. Entertainment, seminars, health screenings and door prizes are provided to seniors who attend. Tons of giveaways and great information about what’s available in our community.”

Exhibitors will provide information on subjects such as nutrition, housing, safety, pharmaceuticals, finances, social security, retirement, volunteer opportunities, hobbies, health, leisure activities, insurance, fitness and arts.

“The event has grown and now has more than just health and wellness,” Eastepp said. “You can find anything you need, from transitioning from hospital to home, traveling, RV source, pest control, pet training, window washing and lots more. A broad variety of services will be offered at the 135 confirmed booths.”

Guests check out vendor booths at the 2016 Seniors EXPO.

Photo by Aaron Beagle

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seful information, vendors, entertainment

Seminars that will be offered at the EXPO will include “Be Safe, Be Smart,” a seminar on fraud and safety for seniors; “Being Engaged n your Health;” and “Ins and Outs of VA Benefits.” There will also be health screenings, including for BMI, blood pressure and posture.

Entertainment and door prizes will also be offered throughout the event. Entertainment will be provided by the Rhythm Rockers and One Man Band. Door prizes will include

gift baskets, gift cards, lawn chairs and the grand prize provided by the Eagle, which is a two-night stay at the Gaylord Texan Resort in Grapevine.

Eastepp said Seniors EXPO is always successful because seniors are so important to the Brazos Valley area.

“It is the 16th annual event,” she said. “It’s once a year, and I think it’s successful because our community cares about our seniors, and the seniors love coming to one place to

get free health screenings along with lots of great information.”

For more information on Seniors EXPO or to volunteer at the event, contact Ashley Gonzales at agonzales@standardshhh.com or 979-777-9926. Volunteers are needed for tasks such as greeting guests; assisting vendors, entertainers and visitors; driving golf carts; managing tickets; passing out door prizes; setting up for the show; and cleaning up afterward.

9:10 a.m. - Color guard 9:30-10 a.m. - “Ins and outs of VA Benefits” - Bentley Nettles 10 a.m. - Door prizes 10:15-10:45a.m. - “Be Safe, Be Smart” - Safety with Seniors 10:45 a.m. - Booth contest winners 11:15 a.m. - Door prizes 11:30 a.m.-noon - One Man Band - Antonio Savala Noon - Door prizes 12:30-1:15 p.m. - “Being Engaged in your Health” Nancy Newberry 1:30 p.m. - Rhythm Rockers 1:45 p.m. - Grand prize drawing

Photo by Aaron Beagle

Attendees try food samples and pick up information at last year’s Seniors EXPO. T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

Seniors EXPO schedule

May 4, 2017 | 7

Strategies for catching up on saving for retirement It was not supposed to be this way.

Thinking about retirement used to be a happy thing: leisure, time with family and travel were eagerly awaited rewards for a lifelong commitment to working hard. However, if I were to survey 100 pre-retirees today, odds are most of them would share their fears and concerns about retirement before they got to the golden ideas of fishing in the mornings and bridge with friends in the evenings.

Nationwide surveys confirm TracY Stewart my guess: take Financial Literacy this one from the National Institute on Retirement Security for example. Over 45 percent of working-age households do not have any retirement assets at all.

A median retirement account balance for working-age households is only $3,000 – nowhere close to enough. We could blame all kinds of trends, from tough economy to our human nature to procrastinate. However, pointing fingers is not likely to make the situation any better.

Many people who realize that they are behind in saving for retirement are tempted to look for a silver bullet -- an investment in a foreign currency that will double in value over the next year, or perhaps an ownership stake in a hot new company. Unfortunately, any investment that promises astronomical returns is likely to come with matching

risks. If you are one of those people who is worried about retirement and wants to be smart about risk, here are some strategies you might consider.

None of them is an overnight fix, but the right tips applied with discipline could make a difference.

Boost your savings rate.

There are three ways to boost your savings rate. You can reduce your expenses, increase your income, or do both at the same time. If retirement is 15-20 years away, you may be able to make relatively minor changes for considerable payoff down the line. If you are closer to retirement age, more drastic changes may be necessary.

When it comes to reducing expenses, I recommend that you work with a financial planner and start by getting a handle on what you are spending today. Once you have clarity on your expenses, challenge the biggest ones for maximum impact. After all, no one has met their retirement goals just by sacrificing a Starbucks habit!

This might mean taking a close look at your mortgage, car payment, insurance policies and other big-ticket monthly outflows.

Here are three more ideas to help you boost your savings rate.

• Eliminate all credit card debt.

The sooner you can get those balances down, the more money is freed up every month to go into your savings and investments. Cutting off reliance

on credit cards will also get you away from overspending.

• Consider a second career or a home-based business. In addition to providing an extra source of income, it can help you transition into something you might enjoy doing in retirement.

• Increase savings by automating them. Many people spend the funds left in their account after the monthly bills are covered – simply because the money is there. If you have that tendency, consider setting up a weekly or monthly transfer to a savings account that will sweep that “extra” money and eliminate the temptation.

Optimize your savings.

Don’t just save money – save strategically! If you have access to a 401k, 457s, 403(b)s, SEPs or other retirement plan, max out your contributions every year (for 2017, the maximum amount is $18,000). Between tax savings and the employer match, this is a fantastic opportunity to sock away what is essentially “free money”.

Those of us over 50 are also eligible for catch-up contributions up to an extra $6,000. IRA contributions allow for another $5,500 (plus $1,000 catch-up provision for the 50 plus crowd).

Re-define retirement.

Consider working longer, or continuing to work part-time as opposed to stopping cold turkey once

you hit 62 or 65; either option extends your earning potential. This will work best for those who enjoy their work, prefer to stay active, and are in relatively good health. Even if your earnings take a cut from working fewer hours, the decision may well be worth it. Consider that by making $14,000 a year in part-time earnings during retirement, you will need $350,000 fewer in pre-retirement savings ($350,000 x standard withdrawal rate of 4 percent = $14,000). Supplementing your income may also allow you to delay tapping into your Social Security benefits, which can increase the amount of the benefit you receive from the government.

To salvage your retirement, start today.

Even if your retirement savings gap looks daunting, making a change today is better than putting it off until tomorrow. By boosting your savings rate, making strategic investment choices and re-defining retirement, you improve your chances of enjoying those later years in comfort and peace.

Reference to the survey: www.nirsonline.org/storage/nirs/ documents/Retirement%20Savings%20 Crisis/retirementsavingscrisis_final. pdf Contact Tracy B. Stewart, CPA, PFS, CFF, CDFA, CFP® at www.

TexasDivorceCPA.com.

Tips for avoiding aches and pains when gardening Metro Creative Connection People who have not spent much time in a garden may not consider this rewarding hobby much of a threat to their health. But as veteran gardeners can attest, gardening can contribute to nagging aches and pains that can force even the most ardent green-thumbers

See Gardening page 9 8 | May 4, 2017

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How to save money on vacation

Metro Creative Connection Going on vacation often means throwing a little caution to the wind and indulging here and there on purchases or experiences a person wouldn’t normally make at home.

According to a 2015 CBS News poll, the average American is entitled to 16 days of paid leave each year, and the average Canadian worker 19 days. Such time off is an opportunity to fit lots of fun into a relatively short period of time.

Frugal travelers may want to be sure they’re spending their hardearned money in the smartest ways.

Traveling without breaking the bank enables the average person to take more vacations and continue to make invaluable memories.

Here are some suggestions on making a getaway, whether it involves lots of traveling or staying close to home, which is more affordable.

•Be flexible. Travelers who are flexible in their departure dates and times can usually find great rates because they have the ability to shop price instead of date. Various airline websites and travel discount services show the average flight prices across several days. Frugal fliers can select the lowest price. The same can be true when booking hotels and other vacation components.

•Pack light. Many airlines now charge extra for baggage fees -especially for suitcases that exceed the weight limit -- so don’t bring along unnecessary items. Hotels typically provide toiletries for free, so save space

Gardening from page 8

indoors.

Gardening is a physical activity that, despite its peaceful nature, can be demanding on the body. Thankfully, there are several ways that gardening enthusiasts can prevent the aches and pains that can sometimes pop up after long days in the garden.

•Use ergonomic gardening tools. Ergonomic gardening tools are designed to prevent the types of aches, pains and injuries that can cut gardeners’ seasons short. Gardening T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

and money by removing such items from your luggage. Chances are if you didn’t pack an item, you can still find an affordable alternative at your destination.

•Use coupons. Coupons aren’t only for getting cents off your favorite brand of tissue at the supermarket. Coupons and discount codes are available for just about any purchase -- even vacations. Check all travel websites to see if there are any deals to be had. Don’t overlook discounts related to your membership in clubs such as AAA or AARP or those linked to your alumni or military organization.

According to RetailMeNot, having a social media account can help, too.

Travel deal sites and airlines may post about flash sales.

•Plan meals. Look into economical restaurants before departing. Know where you’ll be eating and when, including packing a lunch or enjoying a hotel-provided breakfast. Enjoying a big lunch can be more frugal than indulging on dinner.

•Rent small. If renting a car, choose the smallest model that will fit your needs. In addition, there’s no need to pay for a large room that you don’t plan to spend much time in, so resist the temptation to book large hotel rooms.

•Consider public transportation.

Investigate the public transportation options at your destination. Such options may not be as convenient as taxis, but they may be more economical.

injuries can affect any area of the body, but injuries or aches and pains affecting the back, wrists and hands are among the most common physical problems gardeners endure. Look for ergonomic tools that reduce the strain on these areas of the body. Even arthritis sufferers who love to garden may find that ergonomic tools make it possible for them to spend more time in their gardens without increasing their risk for injury.

•Alternate tasks. Repetitive-strain injuries can affect gardeners who spend long periods of time performing the same activity in their gardens. By alternating tasks during gardening sessions, gardeners can reduce their

•Book based on currency. Stay abreast of currency exchange rates.

Such rates can make a big difference in choosing a destination, particularly if your money will be worth more internationally. Also, try booking a vacation through the local country’s version of the same travel site.

•Skip tourist hotspots. Talk to the locals to find out where to get the best deals. Try local foods, brews and more for a cost savings.

Travel can be expensive, but savings are possible when travelers know where to look.

risk of suffering repetitive strain injuries. Alternate tasks not just on muscle groups worked, but also level of difficulty. Remember to include some simple jobs even on busy gardening days so the body gets a break.

•Take frequent breaks. Frequent breaks can help combat the stiffness and muscle aches that may not appear until gardeners finish their gardening sessions. Breaks help to alleviate muscles or joints that can become overtaxed when gardening for long, uninterrupted periods of time. When leaning down or working on your hands and knees, stand up to take breaks every 20 minutes or the moment aches and pains start to make their

presence felt.

•Maintain good posture. Back injuries have a tendency to linger, which can keep gardeners indoors and out of their gardens. When gardening, maintain good posture to prevent back injuries. Gardening back braces can protect the back by providing support and making it easier for gardeners to maintain their posture. Tool pouches attached to gardening stools or chairs also can be less taxing on the back than gardening belts tied around the waist.

Gardening might not be a contact sport, but it can cause pain if gardeners do not take steps to prevent the onset of muscle aches and strains when spending time in their gardens.

May 4, 2017 | 9

CALENDAR

Ongoing Sit and Fit Chair Exercises - Adults 55 and up meet at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, from noon to 1 p.m. Gentle workout while sitting in a chair. Features fat-burning aerobics and weight lifting. For more details, contact 979-764-6351 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Line dance workshop for beginners – Adults 55 and older are invited to a free line dance workshop for beginners, held from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. on the first, second and third Monday of each month, at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Learn the steps and terminology. No registration necessary. Contact 7646351 or mrodgers@cstx.gov for more information.

Line Dancing - Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, holds line dancing for seniors on Tuesdays from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. and on Fridays from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Low impact workout, to the hottest tunes. For more information, contact 979-764-6351, 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Classic Country and Bluegrass Jam Session – Bluegrass Jam Session is from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. on Tuesdays at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. All levels welcome. Bring string instruments and a friend.

Open to all who like to listen to or play this kind of music. For more details, contact 979-764-6351 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Friday Bridge - Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, offers bridge for seniors on Fridays from 9 to 11:30 a.m. For more, contact 979-764-6351 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Learn how to play 42 dominoes - Learn the game of 42 every Wednesday from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351 or mrodgers@ cstx.gov for more information.

42 dominoes - Adults 55 and up meet every Thursday to play 42 at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. New players welcome. For more details, contact 979-764-6351 or mrodgers@ cstx.gov.

Bible study – Bible study is held for seniors 9:1510:30 a.m. every Thursday at Lincoln Center, 1000 Eleanor St. in College Station. Contact 979-764-3779 or awilliams@cstx.gov for more information.

Maj Jongg - Adults 55 and older interested in learning the game will meet at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station on Thursdays from 9 to 11:30 a.m. For more information, contact 764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Game Night - Seniors are invited to Game Night

from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station.

Table games and dominoes provided or bring your own favorite game. Meet friends and enjoy a fun game night. For more information contact 979-7646371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Forevercise - Forevercise is a free exercise class for ages 55 and up, offered on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays from 1:30–3 p.m. at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Class offers individuals healthy lifestyle practices with helpful tips on nutrition and exercise. Exercises may be done while standing or sitting in a chair. For more information contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx. gov.

Dominoes - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, plays dominoes all day on Tuesdays and Fridays and from noon to closing Wednesdays. Sack lunch for those playing dominoes from 11:30 a.m. to noon Wednesdays. For more details: 979-822-6873/www. brazoscountyseniorcitizens.weebly.com.

Bridge – Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, plays Bridge from 12:30 p.m. until closing on Tuesdays; noon to closing on Thursdays; and 12:20 p.m. to closing Fridays. Partner needed Tuesdays and Thursdays. For more details: 979-822-6873 or www. brazoscountyseniorcitizens.weebly.com.

Games - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, plays board games, Scrabble and other card games on Tuesdays. For more details: 979-822-6873/www. brazoscountyseniorcitizens.weebly.com.

Bible study - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, holds Bible study 9:15 to 9:45 a.m. on Wednesdays. For more information, call 979-822-6873 or visit www. brazoscountyseniorcitizens.weebly.com.

Exercise class - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, holds exercise class 9:45 to 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays.

For more details, call 979-822-6873 or visit www. brazoscountyseniorcitizens.weebly.com.

Bingo - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, plays Bingo 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesdays. For more details: 979-822-6873 or www.brazoscountyseniorcitizens. weebly.com.

Canasta - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, plays Canasta from 11:30 a.m. to closing on Thursdays.

For more details, call 979-822-6873 or visit www. brazoscountyseniorcitizens.weebly.com.

Potluck luncheon - Brazos County Senior

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Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, has a potluck luncheon 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Fridays. For more, call 979-822-6873 or visit www. brazoscountyseniorcitizens.weebly.com.

One-on-one computer help - 6 to 8 p.m.

Mondays and Saturdays at Larry J. Ringer Library, 1818 Harvey Mitchell Pkwy. S. in College Station.

Contact the Reference Desk to schedule a 30-minute session, at 979-764-3416. For more information, visit www.bcslibrary.org.

Flow and Balance Exercise Class - Seniors are invited to join this free exercise class held from 1-2 p.m. on Tuesdays at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. The class combines traditional Korean dance movements with music to promote physical and mental health. For more information, contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

May 4 World Passport Program – Brazil - Seniors are invited to attend this free program sponsored by Texas A&M Public Partnership and Outreach and the College Station Parks and Recreation Department.

Held at 2:30 p.m. at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Learn about the culture and economy, and sample foods typical of the country. No reservations needed. For more information, contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979-7646371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov or visit cstx.gov/seniors.

May 10 Seniors EXPO – Held 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at Brazos County Expo Complex, at 5827 Leonard Road in Bryan. The free event for seniors will feature over 100 information booths, door prizes, health screenings, entertainment and educational seminars on topics ranging from nutrition and fitness to finances and leisure activities. For more details, contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

May 16 Nutritional Education - Texas A&M AgriLife Extension offers monthly cooking demos with new recipes and food choices for healthy living. Join other seniors 60 plus at Lincoln Center, at 1000 Eleanor in College Station, from 10:30 –11:30 a.m. For more information, contact Annie Williams at 979-764-3779.

Beginning Computer 101 Class – Held from 9-10:30 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays from May 16-25 at Southwood Community Center, 1520

See Calendar page 11 T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

Calendar

from page 10 Rock Prairie Road in College Station.

Learn basic computer skills and how to use the internet and email. Cost is $45. To register, visit rectrac.cstx. gov or call 979-764-3486. For more information, contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Computer 102 Class – Held from 10:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from May 16-25, at Southwood Community Center, at 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station.

Basic computer skills are required.

Class offers instruction on tool bar functions, formatting documents, use of picture tools, printers and more. Cost is $45. To register, visit rectrac.cstx. gov or call 979-764-3486. For more information contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

May 17 Exploring

History

Luncheon:

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“Western Author, Zane Grey” presented by Glenn Cochran - The College Station Historic Preservation Committee and the College Station Parks and Recreation Department present monthly lectures on the history of the community and state. Luncheons are held at Aldersgate Church, at 2201 Earl Rudder Freeway S. in College Station. A reservation is necessary for lunch; the cost is $7. Lunch is served at 11:30 a.m., followed by a speaker at noon. RSVP by May 12 at 979-7646371 or email mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Family History Computer Group: “How to use GenSmarts, Chart Companion & Behold and Regedt” Open to adults 55 and up. The group shares an interest in researching family history. Meetings are held on the third Wednesday of the month at Carter Creek Training Room at the Waste Water Treatment Plant, 2200 N. Forest Parkway from 9:30-11 a.m.

No registration is required. For more information contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

“Strictly Business: Watch UR BACK” - Monthly presentations about

local businesses are held from 11 a.m.noon at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. For more information, contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

May 22 Senior Advisory Committee meeting - The Senior Advisory Committee meets at 10 a.m. on the last Monday of the month to discuss programs and activities for adults 55 and up. Held at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Visitors welcome. For more information contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

May 25 Free Help for iPad Users - Seniors are invited to bring their iPad and learn how to get the most out of technology.

Held 1-2 p.m. at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Register by calling 979-764-6351. For more information contact College Station

Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

May 26 Bingo & Birthday Celebration – Held from 1:30-2:30 p.m. on the last Friday of each month at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Join to celebrate May birthdays with cake and bingo. Prizes. No registration necessary. Call 979-764-6351 for more information.

May 31 Bryan Senior Citizen Advisory Committee - The Bryan Senior Citizen Committee, which falls under the directorship of the Bryan Parks and Recreation Board, meets at 6 p.m. on the last Wednesday of each month, at the Bryan Municipal Building basement training room, at 300 S. Texas Avenue in Bryan. Its members are senior residents of the City of Bryan, with the mission to provide and facilitate a quality of standard of living for seniors.

They are open to ideas for programs, trips, facilities and services. For more information, call 979-209-5528.

May 4, 2017 | 11

G et to a H e alth ier

Place

Introducing the MatureWell Lifestyle Center, a one-of-a-kind new health complex for adults 55 and older.

“ I want the nex t sta ge of my life to b e the best time of my life. ” Marci a, age 57

“Healthy” isn’t just a state of being…it’s a state of mind. And when you reach that stage of your life when you realize it’s time to start keeping a closer eye on your health, you need a place that brings all your essential wellness resources under one roof. With a state-of-the-art gym and pool, nutritional counseling, wellness education, and specially trained healthcare providers, the MatureWell Lifestyle Center from CHI St. Joseph Health provides adults 55 and older with a convenient, coordinated approach to staying fit for life. Plus, at this center you’ll find people from throughout our community who share the same goals you do, along with a staff of providers focused on you.

Now Open! Sign up for updates and learn more about our complimentary services and those covered by insurance or fees at MatureWell.CHIStJosephHealth.org.

Located on the campus of Traditions Club at 3989 N Shore Drive, Bryan, TX 77807

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