February Prime Time 2020

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Printed on recycled paper Volume 30 | Issue 2

PRIME TIME

February 2020

February 2020

FOR NEW MEXICANS 50+ SINCE 1990

MONTHLY

Secrets For Love That Lasts pg 12

Sticking To Fitness and Diet Resolutions pg 8

ptpubco.com For as long as we can remember, nothing beats a true partner.

Through It All. ® P1445

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February 2020

Some Medicare Advantage plans come with more advantages when you travel.

Presbyterian plans offer you worldwide coverage for emergencies and benefits like free preventive care. When you need it, you have access to Presbyterian’s hospitals, clinics, specialists, and more.

Join us at one of our seminars to learn more.

Call (505) 923-8458 or 1-800-347-4766 (TTY 711) to reserve your seat, to request accommodation of persons with special needs, or for more information. We’re available 8 am to 7 pm, Monday to Saturday (except holidays) from October 1 through December 7 and 8 am to 5 pm Monday to Friday (except holidays) from December 8 through September 30. A sales person will be present with information and applications. Or, visit us at phs.org/medicare to enroll or for more details Presbyterian Senior Care (HMO) and Presbyterian MediCare PPO are Medicare Advantage plans with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in these plans depends on contract renewal.

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Every Tuesday at 2:00 pm and every Thursday at 10:00 am Presbyterian Medical Group 4005 High Resort Blvd. SE

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February 2020

Table of Contents

FEATURES

3 5 6 7 11

What Are Stem Cells Take The Taxing Out Of Taxes Celebrate 30 Years With Ballet Rep Donated Dental Services Program NM Singer Songwriter Returns After Long Adsence 14 Savvy Senior – 2020 Income Tax Filing Requirements

COLUMNS 10 19 20 22

Shannon Wagers Bugman Herb Doc Dr. Muraida

EVERY MONTH 16 Classifieds 17 Crossword 18 Calendar

What Are Stem Cells And Why Am I Interested?

By Dr. Lonnie Peets, Chiropractic Neurologist, Owner NM Stem Cell Contact info: (505) 404-9555 | info@nmstemcell.com | www.nmstemcell.com

Y

ou are constantly hearing about Stem Cells as the future of regenerative medicine.

However, there is a lot of confusion of what Stem Cells are and how they can help you.

A stem cell is essentially the building block of the human body.

Stem cells are capable of dividing for long periods of time; you can think of adult stem cells as our built-in repair kits, regenerating cells damaged by disease, injury and everyday wear and tear.

Stem cells are the body’s raw materials, cells from which all other cells with specialized functions are generated. Under the right conditions in the body or a laboratory, stem cells divide to form more cells called

daughter cells. These daughter cells either become new stem cells (selfrenewal) or become specialized cells (differentiation) with a more specific function, such as blood cells, brain cells, heart muscle cells or bone cells. No other cell in the body has the natural ability to generate new cell types.

The Mayo Clinic, which is deeply involved in Stem Cell research, gives this description of the use for Stem Cells: • Generate healthy cells to replace diseased cells (regenerative medicine). Stem cells can be guided into becoming specific cells that can be used to regenerate and repair diseased or damaged tissues in people.

• Stem Cells are neutral cells. The body does not recognize them as foreign cells, so HLA tissue matching is not necessary.

• The Stem Cells are activated by the inflammatory response to pain (continued on next page)

Saturday, February 8, 2020, 12:00 Noon Four Hills Canyon Club 911 Four Hills Rd. Albuquerque, NM 87123

Saturday, February 22, 2020, 12:00 Noon Albuquerque Country Club 601 Laguna Blvd. SW Albuquerque, NM 87104

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What Are Stem Cells (cont.) moc.secivresylimafnóicnetA@ofni m o c . s e c i v r e s y l i m a f n ó i c n e t A .w w w

T C AT N O C

Let’s use Knees as an example for Stem Cell Therapy: Regenerative stem cell therapy for knees has been the subject of many promising studies. Arthritis develops when the cartilage lining the joints starts to deteriorate, causing pain and limiting function. Osteoarthritis is incredibly common. Arthritis and

0771-712-505

similar conditions are a major cause of disability in the United States.

Every year 600,000 Americans get a knee replacement, a number that could rise to 3 million by 2030. Until recently, treatment options were either temporary or surgical.

and inflammation to repair the area whether it be injury or arthritis.

H ETS WN DR onatnoM 0036 02178 MN ,euqreuqublA

(continued from previous page)

In numerous cases, stem cell therapy for knees is reducing pain and repairing cartilage. Researchers believe that stem cell therapy for knees works: developing into

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essential cartilage cells, thwarting the inflammation that can worsen arthritis, and releasing proteins called cytokines that slow degeneration of cartilage and reduce pain.

Cell Treatment. In the future will receive Stem Cell injections as normal therapy before resorting to surgery especially for joint pain and arthritic conditions.

Adult stem cells maintain and heal tissues by replenishing damaged and dying cells. In some areas of the body, such as the knee, blood supply is limited, so stem cells don’t work as well as they should. Therefore, Stem Cells can be injected at the point of injury, where they appear to initiate the self-recovery process.

Dr. Lonnie Peets, Chiropractic Neurologist and owner of NM Stem Cell

In the Mayo Clinic study, patients experienced improvement in both knees even though only one knee was injected. Although natural deterioration of the knee continues, at five years, those knees that are injected with stem cells are in better shape than they were before the injections.

https://blog.cirm.ca.gov/2018/03/06/ashot-in-the-arm-for-people-with-badknees/

What’s the catch? Most insurance does not cover Stem Cell therapy, even though it is significantly more cost effective than surgical procedures. Often, deductibles for surgery is less currently than Stem

Sources: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/ articles/PMC4178263/ https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/data_ statistics/disabilities-limitations.htm

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ pubmed/24430407 https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic. org/discussion/mayo-clinic-findssurprising-results-on-first-ever-test-ofstem-cell-therapy-to-treat-arthritis/ https://www.healthline.com/health/ stem-cell-research https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ pubmed/25990685

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February 2020

Prime Time Publishing, LLC Home of Prime Time Monthly News Family Caregivers Resource Guide 50+ EXPO

Publisher/Editor

David C. Rivord primetime@swcp.com

Sr. Advertising Executive Joe A. Herrera primesales@swcp.com

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Ashley Conner primeart@swcp.com

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Gary Rivord webmaster@primetimenm.com

Copy Editor

Autumn Gray

Calendar Editor Liz Otero

Contributing Writers

Take The Taxing Out Of Taxes With Free Filing Help

By Beverly Custer

A

lbuquerque area seniors have several options when it comes to obtaining no cost assistance preparing their 2019 taxes.

The federal government offers Volunteer Income Tax Preparation (VITA) on Mondays and Wednesdays from Feb. 4-April 15, starting at 8 a.m. at various metro locations, including in Tijeras and Rio Rancho. The VITA program offers free tax help to people whose income is $56,000 or less, to limited English speakers and to taxpayers with disabilities. VITA sites are often located at libraries, schools, shopping malls, community centers, etc. To find VITA locations, visit www. cabq.gov/seniors/2019-tax-assistance.

Those who need help filing their tax returns may want to seek out IRScertified volunteers at each site. They provide free tax return preparation as well as electronic filing assistance.

Tax Help New Mexico, operated by the United Way of Central New Mexico and Central New Mexico Community College, is also a free service for people 65 and older whose household income is less than $55,000.

Visit http://www.tax.newmexico.gov/

Individuals/free-filing-assistance.aspx for a list of locations. Volunteers at each site are IRS-certified and trained to help identify tax credits to which taxpayers are entitled. For information, call 505-224-4TAX (4829).

Additionally, the Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) program offers free tax help for taxpayers 60 and older. It also provides IRS-certified volunteers specializing in counseling relating to pensions and other retirement issues unique to seniors. These tax preparers are often retired themselves, and are associated with nonprofits that receive IRS grants. There is no application necessary for these programs. A majority of the TCE sites are operated by the AARP Foundation’s Tax Aide program. To check if you may be eligible or to locate the nearest TCE site, call 800-906-9887 or 888-227-7669.

Taxpayers also have the option of preparing their own basic federal and state tax returns using tax preparation software on the internet, at some VITA and TCE tax preparation sites. This “self-prep” service is also free.

It’s a good idea to call the site you intend to visit to ensure you have all the required information before you

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go. Typically, you will need to take the following documents with you: • Proof of identification in the form of a photo ID (e.g., your driver’s license) • Social Security cards or statements for you, your spouse and dependents • Supplemental Security Income (SSI) statements • Current driver’s license or New Mexico identity card • Birth dates for you, your spouse and dependents listed on the tax return • Wage and earning statements (Form W-2, W-2G, 1099-R, 1099-Misc) from all employers • Interest and dividend statements from banks (Forms 1099) • A copy of last year’s federal and state returns, if available • Proof of bank account routing and account numbers for direct deposit, such as a blank check • Total paid for day care and the day care provider’s tax identifying number (Social Security number or business Employer Identification Number) • Forms 1095-A, B, and C, Health Coverage Statements

Lauren Consuelo Tussing Beverly Custer Richard Fagerlund Katherine Giese Jim Miller Dr. Gerard Muraida Liz Otero Dr. Lonnie Peets Dr. Shellie Rosen, D.O.M. Shannon Wagers Get news and see event pictures on our new Facebook page at facebook.com/primetimepublishing!

Visit us at ptpubco.com P.O. Box 67560 Albuquerque, NM 87193

505.880.0470

The Publisher does not take responsibility for the accuracy or legitimacy of the advertiser’s message or that of the guest writer/columnists or any aspect of the business operation or conduct of the advertisers in the paper.

AA ccoommmmunuityntihtayt ctahreas.t cares.

To join us f or a f ree lunch and learn

To join us f or a f ree lunch and learn about our caring community, call about our caring community, call Vera Schaf f er at (505) 256-6216.

Vera Schaf f er at (505) 256-6216.

All faiths or beliefs are welcome.

All faiths or beliefs are welcome.

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February 2020

Advertisement

Celebrate 30 Years With Ballet Repertory Theatre

By Katherine Giese

C

elebrate 30 years with Ballet Repertory Theatre at their annual mixed repertoire concert – Contemporary Innovations on February 22nd and 23rd at the historic downtown KiMo Theatre.

These yearly concerts of contemporary ballet have been presented at the heart of Albuquerque in the KiMo since BRT’s inception in 1989. This year’s production of Contemporary Innovations features Tchaikovsky’s Romeo and Juliet and other original contemporary ballets from BRT’s rich 30-year history.

With thirty years of amazing repertoire from which to select, how does one decide which ballets to perform? The company has so many memorable pieces and there are many favorites. It was a difficult decision to decide which

ballets would be the best flavor to showcase the dancers we have today while honoring the works from our past. Ultimately, we chose pieces from Celia Dale, Alex Ossadnik, and Katherine Giese whose choreography has developed and defined Ballet Repertory Theatre into what it has become today.

The performance features six different pieces each with music that is as inspirational as the choreography. The program will open with Dales’ Lark Ascending set to Ralph Vaughn Williams famous music where lighter than air choreography showcases proficient partnering. Next you will hear the music of Maurice Ravel’s “Bolero” with Giese’s Pele a fiery duet reflecting the volatile relationship of Pele and Kamapua’a from Hawaiian mythology. Following this will be another Giese piece entitled “Solo” with the haunting, restless

music of the Adagio from Dmitri Shostakovich’s “The Limpid Stream” with choreography about inner turmoil within each of our souls. Next we shift gears and get to experience some of Oliver Messiaen’s music from “Quartet for the End of Time” with Ondine which is Dale’s reworking of the famous shadow dance that introduces Ondine who is a mythical water creature usually depicted as a sprite or selke. Succeeding this will be some mesmerizing and beautiful international music by Dead Can Dance with Giese’s Woken Wishing Willing abstractly exploring the evolution of western civilization.

The evening will conclude with Ossadnik’s torrid chess game set to Tchaikovsky’s Romeo & Juliet Fantasy Overture. This version of Romeo & Juliet is based on Ossadnik’s poem: “A game of chess Pawn against pawn,

Red against black and black against red But suddenly the rules are broken And suddenly someone is dead.

A game of chess… goes on.” and features Emma Heuertz as Peace with Erika Ray and Jacob Edington as the star-crossed lovers.

There will be two chances to see this exciting event: an evening performance at 7:00pm on February 22nd and a matinee at 2pm on February 23rd. Tickets are on sale at KiMoTickets.com and in person at the KiMo Theatre Box Office. Premier Seating: $22 - $30. Standard Seating $17 - $25. For special assistance call 768-3522 or 311 locally. (Voice/ Relay) NM 1 800-659 8331 or 711. Ballet Repertory Theatre’s Contemporary Innovations on February 22nd and 23rd at the KiMo Theatre, 5th and Central – in downtown Albuquerque.

Contemporary Innovations

Polar Extremes Join renowned paleontologist Kirk Johnson on an epic adventure through time at the Polar Extremes of our planet.

Ballet Repertory Theatre presents their annual mixed repertoire concert – Contemporary Innovations. This year features Tchaikovsky’s Romeo and Juliet and other original contemporary ballets from BRT’s rich 30-year history.

KiMo Theatre Saturday Feb 22nd 7pm Sunday

Feb 23rd

2pm

Kimotickets.com or KiMo Theatre (505) 768-3522.

Premier Seating: $22-$30. Standard Seating: $17-$25.

For special assistance call (505) 768-3522 or 311 locally. (Voice/Relay) NM 1-800-659-8331 or 711

KNME 5.1: WED FEB 5 7pm nmpbs.org

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Donated Dental Services Program Provides Extensive Dental Work For Low-Income Seniors

By Lauren Consuelo Tussing, BCBSNM

J

oseph Murphy says he has struggled with dental problems throughout his life. “It was an inevitability that I was going to lose all my teeth at some point,” Murphy said.

Eventually, he needed dentures, but the dental work wasn’t covered by Murphy’s insurance.

On average, full dentures can cost around $3,200. “I live on social security, and that’s my only income,” Murphy said.

Unable to get the dental work on his own, Murphy applied for the New Mexico Dental Association Foundation’s (NMDAF) Donated Dental Services (DDS), a program that provides extensive dental work at no cost for low-income New Mexicans who are seniors, veterans, or disabled.

In 2019 and 2020, NMDAF received a $10,000 grant from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico’s (BCBSNM) Healthy Kids, Healthy Families® initiative to support DDS. Thanks to the program, Murphy was able to get the dental work he needed, a lengthy process that included extractions, surgery, impressions and fittings. “I can’t express my gratitude enough,” Murphy said.

“My life has changed.”

DDS works to provide needed treatment for patients who could not otherwise afford it. In turn, this helps patients with the ability to smile, eat nutritious foods, and live a life free from the pain associated with oral conditions. “We’re able to give people this new quality of life that they couldn’t have otherwise,” said Amy Alexander, DDS program manager. “We are the only program in New Mexico that does this kind of free extensive dental work.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, almost 1 in 5 adults 65 years old and above have lost all their natural teeth, and nearly 2 in 3 adults ages 65 and older have gum disease. Dental problems can cause pain, infection, difficulty eating and reduced quality of life. Gum disease is also associated with chronic medical conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes.

More than 170 dentists throughout the state volunteer their time for DDS to perform dental work. Participating labs provide donated or discounted services for crowns, dentures, bridges and dental appliances.

In the last fiscal year alone, 112 patients received a new smile through DDS. Since 2001, DDS has donated nearly $6 million worth of dental care to more than 1,400 patients. In addition to

February 2020

supporting DDS, BCBSNM has also supported NMDAF’s Mission of Mercy events, which provide dental clinics for low-income New Mexicans.

“The $10,000 grant that Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico has given Donated Dental Services has really provided more resources for us,” Alexander said.

“Without the generosity of our donors, including Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico, we couldn’t serve any patients.”

TAKE IT TO HEART Senior Health Summit

WHEN:

Tuesday, February 11, 2020 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

LOCATION:

Marriott Pyramid North 5151 San Francisco Rd. NE | Albuquerque, NM 87109

FREE admission! Call 898-3030 to register today.

• Resource fair and health screenings • Lifestyle intervention for cardiovascular well-being • Atrial Fibrillation management and prevention strategies • Grand prize drawing Participants will be entered to win raffle prizes including an Air Purifier and a 50” Ultra HD TV. Must be present to win.

Love

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February 2020

Sticking To Fitness And Diet Resolutions

By Beverly Custer

M

id-February is when experts say most people give up on their wellintentioned New Year’s resolutions, about 60 percent of which are health-related, according to market research company YouGov. Reasons for throwing in the not-yet sweaty towel include lack of time and funds, feeling overwhelmed and lack of patience for results.

However, those who stick with a regimen may not only see positive physical changes but experience cognitive benefits as well. Multiple studies, including some by the Rush Alzheimer’s Disease Center in Chicago and by the National Institutes of Health, found that older persons who experience a sense of accomplishment and purpose – such as that felt after a workout - are less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease.

Debbie Thomas, the 55+ owner of DebTfitness in Albuquerque, has been instructing fitness classes since 1994, and says that the reasons folks give up on a fitness routine are valid.

“There’s a lot out there to get intimidated about - a lot of demanding, hour-long classes that really exert people beyond the point of what they’re capable of doing initially,” Thomas said. “People need to be given permission to modify a workout or pull back, and even regress if they need to.

“Just move. It doesn’t matter whether you go to a big box gym, a private studio, an organized class,

swim, ski, bike or go bowling.

Simply start moving on a daily basis. … Figure out what you love and what feels beneficial to your body.”

Kathy Nielson, a registered nurse who works out regularly, compares attending fitness classes to “attending physical therapy three, four times a week, but much cheaper and great for your mental health, also. There isn’t any reason anyone 50 or older shouldn’t be able to do some level. Even if you’re in a wheelchair, you can exercise.”

Joel Mahoney, supervisor of the City of Albuquerque Department of Senior Affairs’ 50+ Sports and Fitness Program, agreed that “exercise isn’t just on a treadmill or lifting weights.” The City program, which has various locations, offers multiple fitness opportunities, including a walking program, aerobic and gentle exercise classes, aquatics and an outdoor recreation program, in addition to traditional gym amenities. A 2020 Sports and Fitness Catalog produced by the Department of Senior Affairs can be viewed at https://www.cabq.gov/ seniors, or call 505-764-6400 for more details. The comprehensive publication contains a calendar of events, membership information, details about fitness competitions and even group trips.

Research shows that working with a group or partner helps to keep you accountable. Often, fitness resolutions go by the wayside when someone tries to “go it alone.”

“Working out with someone also has a social aspect to it. It can really

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help motivate you,” Thomas said.

Here are a few popular workouts that almost anyone can do, but that are still challenging and therapeutic to both mind and body: • TRX Suspension Training.

These gentle resistance exercises incorporate straps that work to resist body weight. “It’s ‘the silent workout,’ meaning that you might not think you’re working out very hard,” Thomas said. Most of the time you are holding onto the handles, so the straps add support to the hips, knees and ankles.

You begin with basic exercises... and determine your own level by changing foot position and adjusting strap length.”

• Dumbbell classes.

These workouts incorporate strength, balance and even cardiovascular fitness.

• Pound. This rock-out workout uses movement with sticks similar to drum sticks, to the beat of music. “Drumming therapy builds confidence and focus, reduces fatigue and decreases anxiety,” Thomas said.

Mary Trump, a 65-year-old retired electrician with osteoporosis, says she works out six days a week, with a focus on balance and strength training. She belongs to a couple of gyms for variety and says her Social Security income helps her pay for memberships.

Prices for fitness classes vary around Albuquerque. To work with a personal trainer, you could pay up to $65 an hour. Gym memberships

can range from $20 - $80 a month.

However, some insurance carriers will cover or contribute to wellness programs. Through Blue Cross Blue Shield’s Silver Sneakers program, ages 65 and older can get a free gym membership.

Keep in mind that exercise is only half of the fitness picture. Many people forget or ignore that healthful eating is also a requirement to see physical changes.

Albuquerque nutrition counselor Patrick West offers these tips when committing to a healthier lifestyle: • As with exercise, accountability is key. “Find a place or situation where you can share a meal with others, as we tend to eat better with others. Also, eat your biggest meal in the middle of the day rather than in the evening.”

• Slow down, and be present while you are eating. Pay attention to your senses - not only to the food’s taste but also to how it looks, how it feels in your mouth, its aroma and even its sound as you chew.

• Choose whole foods that are nutrient dense - healthy protein and fats, fruits and vegetables, and whole grains. “Fiber is your friend,” West said. Choose fruits and veggies like kale, broccoli, leafy greens, okra, nopales (cactus), blueberries, cherries, and pomegranates, and grains like brown rice, oats, buckwheat, beans, lentils, and quinoa. “Cooked veggies are a great way to get the minerals we need. Steam, boil, or sautee your favorites.”

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PRIME TIME

February 2020

20190636

Do You or Someone You Love Have Alzheimer’s Disease?

Consider Participating in the GAIN Trial

GAIN is a clinical trial evaluating whether an investigational oral drug is safe and can halt the progression of Alzheimer’s disease by reducing the damage caused by bacteria in the brain. Eligible study participants are being recruited at study sites around the country.

The safety and effectiveness of COR388 for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease have not been established

Study participation, testing and medication are free to all subjects. Some people may receive stipends to cover meals and travel related to study visits. www.TWAVEstudy.com

You or a loved one may be eligible for the study if you: Are 55 to 80 years old Have been diagnosed with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease Have a caregiver or family member who will attend study visits, report on daily activities and oversee you taking medication

To find out about participating contact: Institution Albuquerque Neuroscience Inc. City, State Albuquerque, NM Study coordinator name Robert Kushner Email robert@albneuro.com Phone number

505-848-3773

Learn more at www.GainTrial.com

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PRIME TIME

10 February 2020

Downtown Walking Tours Resume This Month

By Shannon Wagers

I

f you haven’t yet taken advantage of the free walking tours of historic downtown Albuquerque, now might be a good time to add that to your list of fun things to do this spring. The tours are offered every Saturday at 10 a.m. from February through November, and are conducted by 11 volunteer guides—including this writer—on a rotating basis.

All are well-acquainted with local history. Whether you’re a visitor,

a newcomer to Albuquerque, or a lifelong resident, you’re almost sure to learn some interesting facts about the history of the Duke City that you didn’t know before.

As cities go, Albuquerque is young. Even the historic villa of Old Town, founded in 1706, is a mere adolescent compared to the ancient cities of Europe and Asia, or some of our nearby Pueblos.

Downtown Albuquerque, originally known as “New Town,” is younger still, dating only from the coming

If you go: When: Every Saturday at 10 a.m., through November 28. Tour lasts about two hours.

Where: Meet in front of the Century 14 Theater at the southwest corner of First Street and Central Avenue.

How Much: Free.

Reservations required? No. For more information: Leave message at (505) 289-0586 or email Janet Saiers at jsaiers@msn.com.

of the Santa Fe Railroad in 1880. That event marks the starting point of our tour, which begins at the corner of First Street and Central Avenue, in front of the Century 14 Theater, across from the railroad tracks.

From there we make our way westward to Eighth Street, pausing along the way to take a closer look at some of the historic buildings still standing and to talk about some of the men and women who shaped the city’s character. (And no, that doesn’t include Walter White or Saul Goodman of Breaking Bad fame. We stick to real people.)

The tour lasts about two hours.

No tickets or reservations are required. Dress for the weather, wear comfortable walking shoes, take a water bottle, and please leave pets at home. Special tours for groups of 10 or more can be arranged by calling 289-0586 at least one week in advance.

One caveat: Parking meters are in force on Saturdays and will accept payment for only up to two hours.

A better option is to park at one of the several City-owned parking lots and garages in the downtown area.

Now in its seventh year, the Downtown Walking Tours are sponsored by the Albuquerque Historical Society in association with Historic Albuquerque Inc., a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of our past in the form of written records, photographs, and recorded interviews.

PRIME TIME

February 2020

Advertorial

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New Mexico Singer, Songwriter Returns To Airwaves With Hit After Long Absence

By Liz Otero

A

new local record has been seven years in the making and well worth the wait, according to radio listeners. Beloved New Mexico singer/ songwriter Roberto Griego’s recently released album has a title track that was climbing the charts in January on New Mexico Public Radio.

The album, “Roberto Griego, Mi Querida Hermana (My Beloved Sister),” includes nine songs, four of which are original. The record name and title track pay tribute to Griego’s sister, Ermalinda “Ermie” Jaramillo, who died two years ago.

“I give thanks to her for inspiring me to write a song in her memory,” says Griego, who gets much of the inspiration for his songs from life experiences.

When it comes to versatility musically, Griego never fails to disappoint. Griego calls his style of music “New Mexico music,” combining Latin and Southwestern influences. His

songs are stylistically diverse, including mariachi, rancheras, cumbias, ballads, rock ‘n roll, and country and western – some laid-back, some up-tempo, all with great rhythm and with a soulful New Mexico sound. This latest album features various styles in Spanish and English.

Griego was raised in the small ranching community of Bosque, NM, before his family moved to Albuquerque when he was about 10 years old.

He graduated from Rio Grande High School.

One of New Mexico’s top awardwinning recording artists, Griego rose to fame in 1971 after the release of his debut record with his biggest and bestselling hit, “Un Pobre No Mas.” Griego records and produces his music under his independently owned recording label, RJG Records, which he founded and still maintains.

As of deadline for this story, “Mi Querida Hermana” had reached No. 4 on KANW 89.1 Radio, Griego said.

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PRIME TIME

12 February 2020

Secrets For Love That Lasts

By Beverly Custer

“

We’ve been together since way back when, Sometimes I never want to see you again.

But I want you to know, after all these years, You’re still the one I want whisperin’ in my ear.”

We’re all familiar with the love song “Still the One” made popular by the band Orleans in 1976. However, not many of us are fortunate enough to have found “the One” or enjoyed the lasting love of a partner or spouse. According to a June 2019 article in the Wall Street Journal, a discouraging trend has emerged among the senior segment of the population called “Gray Divorce.” The term refers to couples over the age of 50 who call it quits after being married for many years.

So how can you make a relationship go the distance these days? Three couples (including the writer’s parents) whose romances have lasted the test of time share their secrets for longevity: Tandi and Ted - Married 20 years, together 24 years; two children; employed as Albertson’s scan coordinator and City of Albuquerque employee respectively.

To what do you attribute the longevity of your relationship?

“Love, respect and compromise,” Tandi said.

Ted: “Also knowing that she has her opinions, and they don’t always coincide with mine. ...We build off our differences.”

How do you navigate the hard times? Give an example of a difficult time and how you got through it: “I was laid off in 2008.

I was scared about our finances, future, etc. Our girls were in private school and we had just bought a car,” Tandi said. “Ted let me know everything would be OK. He was supportive and non-judgmental. He took extra hours to supplement my wage loss. By the grace of God I was able to get a job within two weeks.”

Ted: “We know that other people and other couples have had to endure tougher times.”

Tips for making a relationship work: “The first thing is love,” Ted said. “Without love, there’s no point.

We also don’t try to control the other person’s likes or dislikes. We both work hard to achieve the goals we have set for each other and for our family, both financially and morally.”

Tandi: “Don’t give up. Marriage is not ownership; it is two people in love who also allow each other the freedom to express themselves.”

together, fight for your marriage,” Tandi said. “Raise your kids together; it’s not just the mom’s job.

Agree to disagree. I’m a Republican.

He’s a Democrat. Love your spouse and children unconditionally.”

Loretta and Arline - Together 44 years, married six years; two children, plus two of their grandchildren they adopted; retired physical education teachers.

Memorable Valentine’s days?

“Ted bought me some beautiful diamond earrings.”

“We usually have a nice dinner out,” adds Ted. “We try not to make just one day special.

We do things for each other throughout the year.”

To what do you attribute to the longevity of your relationship?

“One of the reasons is because of how we were raised. Our parents were in long-term relationships,” Arline said. “We were taught you make a commitment, and it’s for better or worse.

“Also, we have a lot in common.

We were both PE teachers, both athletic, enjoy the outdoors, hiking, riding motorcycles, and lots of other things.”

Loretta: “Faith has been the most important thing in our life together.

And we both agree about nearly everything we do, from picking out furniture, to all sorts of other things.”

“We just really enjoy each other’s company,” Arline said.

Anything else you’d like to share? “Work

How do you navigate the hard times?: “Faith,” Arline said.

“It was really, really hard when we first got together,” Loretta said. “We

ended up losing our jobs, we had to go to court to even see our kids because [two women in a romantic relationship] wasn’t acceptable at that time.”

“We got through it with God and supporting each other when one of us was down,” Arline said. “Also, we had friends and our church. We went through the loss of our parents together. I’ve had cancer twice, and I have Lupus. So, there have definitely been challenges. She has always been there for me.”

“You have to have a lot of love for somebody to go through what we have gone through from the get-go,” Loretta said.

Tips for making a relationship work: “If you disagree on something, then you need to talk to each other about it and come up with a solution,” Loretta said.

And “sometimes, you just need to walk away.”

Arline: “But we have never gone to sleep still angry with the other.”

Memorable Valentine’s: The couple said they honor the day but tend to celebrate their anniversaries more.

Anything else you’d like to share?

“Our song and our life motto is,

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(continued on next page)

PRIME TIME

Love That Lasts (cont.) (continued from previous page)

‘Forever and Ever, Amen,’” Arline said.

Barbara and Charles - Married 57 years; three children, eight grandchildren; retired kindergarten teacher and federal government employee respectively.

To what do you attribute to the longevity of your relationship?

“We have similar interests: music, the outdoors, camping, fishing, hunting,” Charles said.

“But you have to have kind of your own personal things, too,” Barbara said. “I think people have to have respect for each other, of course, and love. I consider Charlie my hero.”

Charles: “Our faith is very important to us, and one major rule we have always had is no fooling around ever for either one of us.

That’s a big one.

“We’re best friends. … And I don’t know how you want to word this, but we’ve always had great sex.” (Author’s note: This is when I inserted fingers in my ears, singing, “La la la la la.” Thanks, Dad.)

How do you navigate the hard times? “I have the utmost respect for Barb … who is doing things I can’t do any more with my broken back,” said Charles, who underwent major surgery for lymphoma in 1987, and developed leukemia years later.

Medications have caused his bones to become brittle and break over time, including several vertebrae in his back.

Barbara: “We’ve learned to take it a day at a time. Period,” said Barbara.

“That’s the only way you do it. …

Then we have our kids, our great friends, our church. They are always right there for us.”

February 2020

13

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Memorable Valentine’s: “(Charles) picks out the most beautiful cards for every occasion, and I always get candy, sometimes flowers” Barbara said. “We have the tops of one of those boxes of chocolates hanging on the wall in our bedroom. It has the words of that Sonny and Cher song, ‘I’ve Got You Babe,’ on it.”

(balcony and above on 7 night or longer sailings)6

Anything else you’d like to share?

“You just have to plain like each other to live together this long,” Barbara said. “We have been best friends, and that’s helped us through lots of crises.”

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Caribbean 30% cruise faretoforresidents third guests higherPuerto booked theselect same Caribbean stateroomdestinations. as the first twoPrices qualifi guests.areNonrefundable Depositand Bookings ) cancelled priormayto be finalwithdrawn payment atdueanydate will©2020 receiveRoyal a future cruise 3 Cruises registry: Priority check-in on day service of boarding does notFCCinclude priority embarkation (access to boardfrom the ship startper of normal check-in, proceed toto NRDB the lineship marked credit inLtd. theShips’ amount of theBahamas. deposit minus a $100 per person fee (“FCC”). is nontransferable and expires 12-months issueprior date.to$100 person boarding). service feeAtapplies to changes or sailCrown date. and Anchor Society Members. 4Maximum one complimentary bottle of sparkling wine per stateroom. Bottle of sparkling wine delivered to stateroom during cruise. Age restrictions may apply. 5Reservations required Deposits made toward Guarantees and Grand Suites and higher categories are nonrefundable and are subject to NRD Booking Terms.

Offer applies to new, individual and named group bookings confi rmed at prevailing onboard. Applies to passenger one and two only in stateroom/suite. Maximum one specialty dining amenity per stateroom. Valid for new bookings made in a balcony stateroom or above. Specialty dining offer applies to rates.

Offer open to residents of US, Canada, Puerto Rico and select Caribbean destinations.

Prices and offers are subject to availability and change without notice, and may be withdrawn ® at any time. ©2020 Royal Caribbean all ships, all sailings, any number of nights.

Valid on port days only. Gratuities included. Majesty of the Seas bookings will receive one complimentary meal for two at Johnny Rockets as their specialty dining experience.

3 6 Cruises Ltd.dining Ships’events registry: Bahamas.restaurants Priority check-in on dayfrom of boarding does not include embarkation (accessonetocomplimentary board the ship prior boarding). check-in, proceed to the line Crownor Offer includes lunchtoforstart Twoofinnormal a Specialty DiningAtRestaurant.

Valid onboard any marked seven night Specialty in specialty are excluded offer. Restaurants subjectpriority to change. complimentary bottle stateroom. of sparklingOnly wineoneperLunch stateroom. of sparklingVoucher wine delivered stateroom Ageatrestrictions may apply.

Reservations and Anchor Members. longer sailing.Society Booking must be4Maximum made in a one balcony or above category voucherBottle per stateroom. is valid fortolunch for two,during one percruise. sailing, Giovanni’s Table, Chops5Grille or Saborrequired Modern Mexican orApplies dinnertoforpassenger two, one one per sailing Chopsin Grille, Giovanni’s Table, Samba Jamie’sdining Italian, 150 Central Park or Wonderland. varymade by ship. are included.

Alcoholic beverages andoffer sodas are not onboard. and twoatonly stateroom/suite.

Maximum oneGrill, specialty amenity per stateroom.

Valid for newVenues bookings in aGratuities balcony stateroom or above.

Specialty dining applies to ® included andsailings, are available at an additional cost. Dining give guest(s) anyMajesty seatingofpriority is a wait to be seated in the selectedmeal specialty restaurant. redemption required.

Reservations must be as their specialty dining experience. all ships, all any number of nights. Valid on portOffer daysdoes only.not Gratuities included. the Seasif there bookings will receive one complimentary for two at JohnnyNoRockets made onboard and are valid only on port days.

Majesty of the Seas bookings will receive one complimentary meal for two at Johnny Rockets as their complimentary specialty lunch for two.

6 Specialty dining events in specialty restaurants are excluded from offer. Restaurants subject to change. Offer includes one complimentary lunch for Two in a Specialty Dining Restaurant. Valid onboard any seven night or

†Forsailing. information the rates, fees,stateroom. other Only costs andvoucher benefi ts associated ofsailing, theatcredit or Grille to orapply, go longer Booking must beabout made in a balcony or above category one Lunch per stateroom.

Voucher is validwith for lunchthe for two,use one per Giovanni’s card Table, Chops Sabor Modern Mexican or dinner for two, one per sailing ator Chopsvisit Grille, Giovanni’s Table, Samba Grill,branch.

Jamie’s Italian,Royal 150 CentralCaribbean Park or Wonderland.International Venues vary by ship.®Gratuities included. Alcoholic and sodas are not to AAA.com/Creditcard your local AAA Bonusare Points Offer.beverages You will earn 5 ® required. Reservations must be included are available additional cost. Dining Offerof does4notbonus give guest(s) any seating if therepoint) is a wait toon be seated in theCaribbean selected specialty restaurant.

No redemption pointsandper dollarat anspent (consisting points andpriority 1 base Royal International transaction(s) that made and are valid onlydate on portfrom days. Majesty of the Seas will receive complimentary meal for twomade at Johnny Rockets as theirmerchants complimentary specialty lunchthan for two.Royal Caribbean haveonboard a transaction January 1 –bookings February 29,one2020.

Purchases through other ® †For information the rates, other points. costs and ts associated the the use standard of the credit apply, go International willabout not qualify for fees, the bonus Thisbenefi promotion will notwith impact earncard rateorontopurchases ® to AAA.com/Creditcard your local branch.

Caribbean Bonus PointsBonus Offer. You willearned earn 5 or the bonus rewards offorersvisit on travel, gas,AAA grocery store,Royal wholesale club International and drugstore purchases. points ® as a result of thisspent promotion will not Preferred Rewards/Preferred Rewards forInternational Wealth Management Program points per dollar (consisting of 4receive bonus any points and 1 base point) on Royal Caribbean transaction(s) that bonuses.

Details are at bankofamerica.com/preferred-rewards. valuemerchants of this reward taxable have a transaction dateavailable from January 1 – February 29, 2020. Purchases madeThe through othermay thanconstitute Royal Caribbean income to you. ® You may be issued an Internal Revenue Service Form 1099 (or other appropriate form) that reflects the International will not qualify for the bonus points. This promotion will not impact the standard earn rate on purchases value of such reward. Please consult your tax advisor, as neither Bank of America, nor its affiliates, provide tax advice. or the bonus rewards offers on travel, grocery store, wholesale club andN.A. drugstore purchases.

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Details are available at bankofamerica.com/preferred-rewards.

The value of this reward may constitute taxable ©2020 Bank of America Corporation ©2020 AAA. AR2841033 Unless otherwise indicated: Rates quoted are accurate at time of publication, & are per person, based on double occupancy.

Airfare, taxes, surcharges, gratuities, transfers & excursions are additional.

Advertised rates not income to you. You may be issued an Internal Revenue Service Form 1099 (or other appropriate form) that reflects dothe include any applicable daily resort or facility fees payable directly to the hotel at check-out; such fee amounts will be advised at the time of booking. Rates, terms, conditions, value ofitinerary, such reward.

Pleasedeposit, consult taxterms/conditions advisor, &aspolicies neither of America, nor availability, government taxes, surcharges, payment,your cancellation subject to Bank change without notice at any time.

Cruiseits ratesaffiliates, provide tax advice. capacity controlled. Other restrictions may apply, including, but not limited to baggage limitations & fees, standby policies & fees, nonrefundable tickets & change fees with preThis card& blackout program issued andairlines. administered Bank America, N.A. Visa Visa Signature are registered flight notificredit cation deadlines, dates. Feesis& policies vary among Contact airline directlyby for any details orof questions.

Advance reservations throughand AAA Travel required to obtain Member Benefi ts &International savings which may varyService based on departure date. Not responsible for errors orused omissions.by Yourthe local AAA club actspursuant as an agent for Royal trademarks of Visa Association and are issuer to license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. Caribbean International. CST 1016202-80. To learn how we collect and use your information, visit the privacy link at AAA.com. ©2020 Auto Club Services, LLC. All Rights Reserved. ©2020 Bank of America Corporation ©2020 AAA. AR2841033

Unless otherwise indicated: Rates quoted are accurate at time of publication, & are per person, based on double occupancy. Airfare, taxes, surcharges, gratuities, transfers & excursions are additional. Advertised rates do not include any applicable daily resort or facility fees payable directly to the hotel at check-out; such fee amounts will be advised at the time of booking. Rates, terms, conditions, availability, itinerary, government taxes, surcharges, deposit, payment, cancellation terms/conditions & policies subject to change without notice at any time. Cruise rates capacity controlled. Other restrictions may apply, including, but not limited to baggage limitations & fees, standby policies & fees, nonrefundable tickets & change fees with preflight notification deadlines, & blackout dates. Fees & policies vary among airlines. Contact airline directly for any details or questions. Advance reservations through AAA Travel required to obtain Member Benefits & savings which may vary based on departure date. Not responsible for errors or omissions. Your local AAA club acts as an agent for Royal Caribbean International. CST 1016202-80. To learn how we collect and use your information, visit the privacy link at AAA.com. ©2020 Auto Club Services, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

14 February 2020

D

ear Savvy Senior, What are the IRS income tax filing requirements for seniors this year? I didn’t file a tax return last year because my 2018 income was below the filing requirements, but I got a part-time job late last year in 2019, so I’m wondering if I need to file this year.

Semi-Retired Dear Semi, Whether or not you are required to file a federal income tax return this year depends not only on how much you earned last year (in 2019), but also the source of that income, as well as your age and your filing status.

Here’s a rundown of this tax season’s IRS tax filing requirement thresholds. For most people, this is pretty straightforward. If your 2019 gross income – which includes all taxable income, not counting your Social Security benefits, unless you are married and filing separately – was below the threshold for your filing status and age, you may not have to file. But if it’s over, you will.

• Single: $12,200 ($13,850 if you’re 65 or older by Jan. 1, 2020).

PRIME TIME

What Are The 2020 Income Tax Filing Requirements For Retirees?

• Married filing jointly: $24,400 ($25,700 if you or your spouse is 65 or older; or $27,000 if you’re both over 65).

• Married filing separately: $12,200 at any age.

• Head of household: $18,350 ($20,000 if age 65 or older).

• Qualifying widow(er) with dependent child: $24,400 ($25,700 if age 65 or older).

To get a detailed breakdown on federal filing requirements, along with information on taxable and nontaxable income, call the IRS at 800-829-3676 and ask them to mail you a free copy of the “Tax Guide for Seniors” (publication 554) or see IRS.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p554. pdf.

Check Here Too There are, however, some other financial situations that can require you to file a tax return, even if your gross income falls below the IRS filing requirements. For example, if you earned more than $400 from self-employment in 2019, owe any special taxes like an alternative minimum tax, or get premium tax credits because you, your spouse or a dependent is enrolled in a Health

Insurance Marketplace (Obamacare) plan, you’ll need to file.

You’ll also need to file if you’re receiving Social Security benefits, and one-half of your benefits plus your other gross income and any tax-exempt interest exceeds $25,000, or $32,000 if you’re married and filing jointly.

To figure all this out, the IRS offers an interactive tax assistant tool on their website that asks a series of questions that will help you determine if you’re required to file, or if you should file because you’re due a refund. It takes less than 15 minutes to complete.

You can access this tool at IRS. gov/help/ita – click on “Do I Need to File a Tax Return?” Or, you can get assistance over the phone by calling the IRS helpline at 800-829-1040.

You can also get face-to-face help at a Taxpayer Assistance Center. See IRS. gov/localcontacts or call 800-829-1040 to locate a center near you.

Check Your State Even if you’re not required to file a federal tax return this year, don’t assume that you’re also excused from filing state income taxes. The rules for your state

might be very different. Check with your state tax agency before concluding that you’re entirely in the clear. For links to state tax agencies see Taxadmin.org/ state-tax-agencies.

Tax Preparation Help If you find that you do need to file a tax return this year, you can get help through the Tax Counseling for the Elderly (or TCE) program. Sponsored by the IRS, TEC provides free tax preparation and counseling to middle and low-income taxpayers, age 60 and older. Call 800-906-9887 or visit IRS. treasury.gov/freetaxprep to locate a service near you.

Also check with AARP, a participant in the TCE program that provides free tax preparation at more than 4,800 sites nationwide. To locate an AARP TaxAide site call 888-227-7669 or visit AARP.org/findtaxhelp. You don’t have to be an AARP member to use this service.

Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org.

Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.

PRIME TIME

February 2020

15

PRIME TIME

16 February 2020

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Cathedral ceilings accentuate the open floor plan that includes a large living room that flows into the dining room. Located in the front of the home, the kitchen brags of new stainless steel appliances, plenty of cabinet & counter space, and room for a breakfast table. This home has 2 bedrooms with an optional 3rd bedroom, den, or office. The nice-sized master bedroom has a walk-in closet and a ceiling fan and the master bathroom has double sinks and a walk-in shower. Your overnight visitors will enjoy the nice guest bedroom and the guest bathroom that has a tub/shower combination. This home comes with a manufacturer’s one-year warranty, tape & textured walls, refrigerated air, and a covered carport. Call Pat or Craig at (505) 821-1991.

If you love light you will love this pretty home with lots of windows located in the Albuquerque Meadows age 55+ Mobile Home Community. Enter through the sunroom and proceed either to the private deck or into a room that can be used as either a second dining area or a den. The formal dining room has a built-in, mirrored hutch, and the kitchen has a skylight, a nice big pantry, an open passthrough window to the living room, and lots of counter and cabinet space. All appliances, including the washer and dryer, will stay with the home. There is beautiful wood laminate flooring in the kitchen, dining room and hallway. The large living room has cathedral ceilings and a ceiling fan, and the big picture windows let in lots of light.

The guest bedroom has a built-in bookcase, track lighting, and can accommodate a queen-sized bed.

The large master bedroom has a big mirrored closet, track lighting, and can accommodate a kingsized bed. The master bathroom has a walk-in shower, a sky light, and both bathrooms have low-flow toilets. The plumbing has been replaced throughout the home and is only about 5 or 6 years old. The yard is fenced for your pet and there is a good-sized Tufshed for all your extras. Call Pat or Craig at (505) 821-1991.

VOLUNTEERS Support Musical Theatre Southwest by volunteering to usher at Route 66 Legends Theater. You’ll hear great music, see amazing performances, make friends and help MTS continue to entertain the community. If interested, please go to our website www.mtsabq.org/amigos or email Judi Anderson at judianderson@ comcast.net.

The City of Albuquerque Department of Senior Affairs RSVP (Retired Senior Volunteer Program) is recruiting volunteers 55 years of age and older for the following opportunities. For more information call 767-5225.

Alzheimer’s Association The Alzheimer’s Association NM Chapter invites those interested to become volunteers.

Volunteer positions are varied and can involve clerical work, event participation, health fairs, group

PRIME TIME

February 2020

Classifieds facilitators and Helpline counselors.

Some positions require background check. Hours of work are flexible to meet the needs of the volunteer and the association. Positions are available Monday thru Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. You have been touched by this disease or know of someone with the disease we would very much like to talk to you. For more information call 767-5225.

Benefits Connection Center: Help Seniors and People with Disabilities get the benefits they need Volunteers are needed on an ongoing basis for the Benefits Connection Center. As a volunteer at Adelante’s Benefits Connection Center, you can help seniors and people with disabilities find out what benefits they are eligible to receive. Working in the Center. To volunteer, you must be able to answer calls pleasantly, following a basic script, and perform administrative tasks like keyboarding, printing, and faxing.

Training will be provided. You must be able to speak clearly and hear well on the phone. Doing outreach.

Several individuals are needed to help with outreach. This important volunteer role would help educate seniors and people with disabilities about the Benefits Connection Center and what it can do to help them apply for benefits for which they may qualify. Come make a difference in the lives of lowincome New Mexicans! Volunteer at Adelante’s Benefits Connection Center. Call 505.341.7186 or send an email to Volunteer@ GoAdelante.org Catholic Charities Senior Transportation Service Driver: (Use of your own vehicle is required) Provide transportation for individuals age 60+ to medical appointments, grocery shopping and business office. Volunteer must have a good driving record, patient, courteous, polite, and pleasant.

Volunteers are needed any day of the week and weekends are optional. Mileage reimbursement if required.

Senior Transportation Ride Coordinator: Answer phones, confirm ride requests and match rider and driver.

Coordinate rides). Enter information into the data base, complete rider intakes over the phone and mail packets. Volunteer must have good phone etiquette, patient, and be familiar with data entry. You must take an Abuse Awareness training class. 2-3 volunteers are needed 2.5 hours per day, 5 days per week. For more information call 767-5225.

CASA (City of Albuquerque Senior Affairs) Kitchen Looking for volunteers to support a state-of-the-art commercial kitchen that prepares food for seniors in the community. Hours are anytime between 4:00a.m. – 12p.m, Monday through Friday. Participate in

Crossword

Department of Senior Affairs Home Services is looking for volunteers to assist with yard work, minor home repairs, painting, building of wheel chair ramps and modified steps. Experience in minor home repairs and yard cleaning the use of yard tools, shovels, rakes and painting preferred but not required.

Days/hours are open depending on volunteer.

Time commitment: M-F 7:30-3:00.

On the job training will be provided.

Ombudsman Program Ombudsmen are advocates and problem solvers for residents in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Please apply if you are looking for a rewarding experience that makes a difference in the lives of the elderly. Time commitment: 3 hours per week, any day MondayFriday. For more information call 767-5225.

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DOWN 1. Word with woman or coal 2. Wraparound item 3. Zeus & Hera’s son 4. In a motherly way 5. Taste 6. 4.0-student’s grades 7. Filth 8. Beverage container 9. Name for a family of writers 10. Talks informally 11. Address abbr.

12. Barbie’s beau 13. English letters 21. Small deers 22. External 25. Christmas tree, perhaps 26. Reached a high point 27. Combat-ready 28. Funds 29. Nincompoops 30. “When I was __...”

31. Preferences 33. Kuala Lumpur residents 34. Fencing sword: var.

36. Sleeveless garment 39. South African Dutchmen 43. Divide 45. Glues 47. Hole enlarger 50. Monday, on Monday 52. Poker player’s term 53. Geometric shape 54. Scottish island 55. Mixture 56. Little Mexican 57. Editor’s notation 58. Get off one’s feet 59. One who really knows his job well 60. Polish off

ACROSS 1. Stuff 5. Hula hoops, leisure suits, and pet rocks 9. Stopping device 14. Tel Aviv dance 15. Café au __ 16. Crow 17. Serve as an accomplice 18. Bern’s river 19. Begins 20. Reasons to hesitate 23. Pal of Winnie-the-Pooh 24. Eccentric 25. Physical therapist’s recommendation 28. Multi-vitamin ingredient 32. Hothead’s problem 34. Sweet treats 35. Like some telecasts 37. Ancient Syria 38. Indigo dye 39. Roll maker 40. One who wrote of the birth of Jesus 41. High school subj.

42. Pieces of poetry 43. Walked the floor 44. Do a manuscript again 46. Got off track 48. Ending for heir or author 49. Michelangelo’s field 51. Pauser’s syllables 52. Leagues 58. Used 61. Condemn 62. Got down 63. Steaming 64. Meara or Bancroft 65. Bedtime, for some 66. Handbags 67. Time period 68. Black substance

The Foster Grandparent Program (FGP) Advisory Council Needs members to join its efforts in promoting awareness and educating the community about FGP and senior issues. Council members advocate on behalf of FGP volunteers, evaluate the Program’s effectiveness, and assist in the recognition of Foster Grandparents by raising funds and in-kind resources. The Council currently meets once a month at the Barelas Senior Center. For more information call 767-6412.

Foster Grandparent Program (FGP) is looking for volunteers age 55 and older who are interested in making a difference in a child’s life. Foster Grandparent volunteers must be willing to serve an average of 20 hours per week and must be able to pass a background check, physical, and tuberculosis test.

Foster Grandparent volunteers serve one-on-one with children, working with them to build their social and emotional development as well as help improve their literacy skills. Volunteers receive mileage reimbursement, supplemental liability insurance, meals while on duty, pre-service and monthly trainings, and recognition throughout the year.

Volunteers can also receive a small stipend if they meet the income guidelines. Call 764-6412 for more information and to apply today.

#5137

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

preparation and distribution of food.

Follow proper procedures in handling of food, portion control, sanitation, nutritional requirements and safety procedures. Some food handling experience is preferable; however volunteers will be trained for areas of help where are needed. Most volunteer activities will involve food prep (slicing, dicing, serving, and packaging) and kitchen sanitation (wiping, sweeping, mopping and dish washing). Call the RSVP office at 505-767-5225 for more information.

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PRIME TIME

18 February 2020

Classifieds Ronald McDonald Family Rooms at Presbyterian and UNM Hospitals The Ronald McDonald Family Rooms at Presbyterian and UNM hospitals offer a place for parents to rest and regroup right at the hospital, just moments away from their sick child.

The Family Rooms are open seven days a week and are staffed by hospital volunteers. The Family room volunteers greet families, maintain visitor data, stock food, drinks, and help families with their needs. Volunteers are asked to work one, three hour shift per week.

The shift times vary slightly at each hospital and are between the hours of 9:00 a.m.– 9:00 p.m. Please call 505767-5225 for more information.

Shalom House: David Specter Shalom House offers a complete package of senior living and care services. Residents are independent seniors who need a little help sometimes. Shalom house is looking for a volunteer to help serve meals on Thursday’s from 11a.m.-1p.m.

Duties would include checking in meals from delivery source, setting up the

Winter

Limit one per person.

Free. Call 311; visit cabq.gov/events.

February 15

Calendar ART

February 6

¡HAH! Happy Arte Hour, at National Hispanic Cultural Center, 6- 8 p.m. (new time). Enjoy creative fun in a relaxed, artistic social setting, which includes snacks, refreshments, and beer & wine for sale. On Feb. 6, Nick Abdalla and Susan Spring will present a Valentine Assemblage. Pre-register at www.nhccnm.org/events (for materials needed to prepare).

The suggested donation is $5.

Call Elena Baca, 246-2261; visit nhccnm.org.

COMMUNITY EVENTS February

National Hispanic Cultural Center Library, 1701 Fourth Street SW; open Tuesdays–Fridays from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. & the first Saturday of each month from 1-5 p.m. The NHCC Library holds more than 13,700 titles, with a concentration on the history and culture of the Hispanic/Latino world; over 700 children’s book, many of which are bilingual; and houses the Manuel y Lorenzita Lujan Genealogy Center, containing, among other items, the Archives of the Archdiocese of Santa Fe. The library also provides access to Ancestry Library Edition and HeritageQuest.

Free. Call 246-2261; visit nhccnm.org.

February 22

Reusable Bag Giveaway, Feb. 22, Lowe’s Marketplace, 4701 4th St NW; 9 a.m.-noon. The Clean and Green Retail Ordinance bans the use of single-use plastic bags in the City of Albuquerque. Get your free reusable shopping bag.

Margaret Randall: Book Reading and Signing, at National Hispanic Cultural Center, 1701 Fourth Street SW, 2 p.m. In “Voices from the Center of the World” (Wings Press, 2020), Randall has selected and translated 25 poets born in Ecuador between 1926 and 1993 and also focuses on a new generation of poets, especially women and indigenous poets born after 1950. Randall was awarded the Medal of Literary Merit by Literatura en el Bravo, Chihuahua, Mexico. The University of New Mexico granted her an honorary doctorate in letters in 2019.

Her web page is http://www.margaretrandall.org.

Call 246-2261; visit nhccnm.org.

February 21, 22

Carnaval 2020, at National Hispanic Cultural Center, 1701 Fourth Street SW, 7:30 p.m. The NHCC’s annual celebration of Carnaval, (the festive season occurring before Lent in many countries), brings dance, music, costumes and will feature the band PANdemonium and the Odara Dance Ensemble and showcasing the Carnaval celebrations of Cuba, Trinidad, Brazil and New Orleans.

Admission is $17, $22, $27, with a $2 discount for seniors, children 12 years old and younger & NHCC members. Call 246-2261; visit nhccnm.org.

February 24

Yoga at the Museum – New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science, 1801 Mountain Road for Downward Dino Yoga, 7:308:30 a.m. Hot or Not Yoga NM instructors will guide you through yoga sessions suitable for all skill levels. A single session is $20 or a 4-session pass is $60. This event is held monthly on the fourth Monday of the month. Call 841-2800; Visit nmnaturalhistory.org/events/ downward-dino-yoga-museum.

February 27

NHCC Book Club, at the National Hispanic Cultural Center, 1701 Fourth Street SW, 5:30 p.m. The NHCC Book Club meets once a month to talk about that month’s

meal site, serving meals and calling in the meals for the next day. Please call 505-767-5225 for more information.

Mileage reimbursement is available to RSVP volunteers.

RSVP is part of Senior Corps and is administered by the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS). The purpose of RSVP is to recruit senior volunteers into public, government and non-profit organizations to meet community needs. For information on these and more volunteer opportunities call 767-5225. selected book. Book for February: Lost Children Archive (2019) by Valeria Luiselli. Members who purchase their books through Bookworks get a 10% discount. To join the NHCC Book Club, register online at nhccnm.org; call 246-2261.

April 5

The Northern New Mexico Tennis Association is now taking reservations for low cost beginner and/or refresher tennis lessons for adults over 60. The program consists of six weeks of onehour lessons twice a week, followed by six weeks of roundrobin play at different locations.

A kick-off meeting will be held on Sunday, April 5, at 2 p.m. at the Jerry Cline Tennis Center.

For more information contact program director Joe Felice at Joe ACCPro@comcast.net or phone 505-331-4300

HEALTH

Adapted Aquatics taught at UNM’s Therapy Pool. The warm water and buoyancy help the participants increase strength, mobility, flexibility, and range of motion.

50+ Sports and Fitness Program instructors conduct all classes. Call for costs and times, 767-5990 or 880-2800. Applications accepted from the 10th through the 15th of each month.

February 22

February 22nd Noon - 1:30 p.m.

Stem Cell Therapy Seminar. Come join NM Stem Cell at Albuquerque Country Club at Noon on Feb. 22nd and learn about Umbilical Cord Stem Cell Therapy as a solution to help joint pain and arthritis. Bring a guest. Register now by calling 505-404-9555 or www.nmstemcell.com

MUSEUMS February 5

Free First Wednesday at the Albuquerque Museum, 2000 Mountain Road NW, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Start your month with free general admission to Albuquerque Museum. At 11 a.m., enjoy a stroll in the sculpture garden with a docent who will share stories on the artists and their works. No reservations are necessary.

Call 311; visit cabq.gov.

Los Volcanes Fitness Center: Looking for a volunteer to serve on Saturdays between the hours of 8am to 4pm for 2 to 4 hours based on need. Duties would include: Scanning members as they enter the facility to workout, help answering member questions, giving a tour of the facility to interested members and answering phones. Additional assistance may be required by staff when busy and things arise. For more information, call 505-767-5255.

February 7

First Friday Fractals, at The New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science, 1801 Mountain Road NW, 6 p.m.

Explore the world of fractals in this award-winning planetarium show. Admission is $5-$10.

Call 841-2800; visit nmnaturalhistory.org.

February 7

Free admission - The first Friday of the month & Sundays 9 a.m.-1 p.m., at the Balloon Museum, 9201 Balloon Museum Drive, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Explore the history, science, sport and art of ballooning and other innovative forms of flight.

Call 768-6020; visit balloonmuseum.com.

February 20

3rd Thursdays at the Albuquerque Museum, Albuquerque Museum, 2000 Mountain Road NW, 5-8:30 p.m. Enjoy music, programs, artmaking for all ages, and a cash bar and small plates at our cafe, Slate at the Museum. General admission for the event is free.

Call 311; visit cabq.gov/events.

THEATRE

February 2, 7, 9

NHCC & Opera Southwest present Daniel Catan’s Il Postino, at National Hispanic Cultural Center, 1701 Fourth Street SW, Friday, 7:30 p.m.; Sundays, 2 p.m. Daniel Catán’s Il Postino, a fully staged opera with orchestra, sung in Spanish with both Spanish and English translation supertitles.

Admission starts at $19.

Visit operasouthwest.org or nhccnm.org.

February 22, 23

Ballet Repertory Theatre presents their annual mixed repertoire concert – Contemporary Innovations. This year features Tchaikovsky’s Romeo and Juliet and other original contemporary ballets from BRT’s rich 30-year history. Performances are at the historic downtown KiMo Theatre February 22nd at 7 p.m. and February 23rd at 2 p.m. Tickets are on sale at kimotickets.com.

PRIME TIME

Pesticide Ask The Precautionary Principle Bugman Email questions to AskTheBugman.com or call (505)385-2820

T

he Pesticide Precautionary Principle (PPP) simply says that any pesticides used for any purpose have to be proven safe for people and the environment. There are three sections of the PPP that are important.

First, before any insecticides or herbicides are used, the target pest needs to be positively identified, including the pest’s scientific name. It needs to be demonstrated why this is a pest and why it needs to be controlled. Does it carry diseases? If so, which ones? Is it otherwise dangerous? Is it just unsightly? If the applicators can’t positively identify the insects or weeds they want to control, they should not be using pesticides.

Second, once the pest and the problem it causes has been identified, then all possible methods of control should be studied and the least toxic one should be utilized. How is it beneficial to society to use toxic herbicides to control a weed that is simply unsightly? Can the weeds be manually removed? Can insect pests be excluded from a building without pesticide applications? If a pesticide is supposedly needed, we go to the third section.

Third, any pesticide (insecticide or herbicide) that an exterminator wants to use has to be proven safe.

The individual or company needs to provide documentation that the pesticide is safe for people and the ecosystem. Documentation in the form of a statement from the distributor, the manufacturer or even the EPA does not suffice.

A scientific, peer-reviewed document that has studied the pesticide is required. The problem exterminators have is that there

is virtually no documentation proving that any pesticide is safe either for human exposure or for the environment in which it is used. If the applicators can’t produce scientific documentation that their pesticide is safe, then they should not be permitted to use it anywhere on public property or in public buildings.

The PPP goes on to say that pesticides will only be applied in or on the outside of commercial buildings when a pest is present and will not be applied on a regular or “calendar” basis unless it is to treat an infestation and is a part of a pest management system being implemented to address a particular target pest. A pest is considered to be present when it is observed directly or can reasonably be expected to be present based on evidence such as droppings, body parts, or damage that is typically done by the pest.

February 2020

19

Basically, exterminators need to give you documentation identifying the pests, listing all viable options for control, showing their methods, and providing data exhibiting that what they are using is positively safe. Exceptions: There can be exceptions in the case of an emergency when, for instance, a large swarm of yellowjackets invade an occupied building. In this case, toxic pesticides may be used because of the danger potential. Situations like this are rare.

This Pesticide Precautionary Principle should be adopted by all city, county and state agencies that apply pesticides. Business owners should also require this from any exterminators they may use in their businesses where people may unknowingly be exposed to the chemicals.

If you have any pest questions, you can contact me at askthebugman2013@gmail.com.

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20 February 2020

Shellie Rosen, DOM

Herb Doc

Shellie Rosen is a Doctor of Oriental Medicine. She can be reached via her website at Bodyvolve.com

B

efore buying any ruby red products, including candy, for yourself or a loved one this month, you might want to check the ingredient list carefully. Many consumer goods bearing the color red may be problematic to health.

Food dyes like “Red 40” are synthetic and contain harsh chemicals such as benzidine and 4-aminobiphenyl. These brightly colored carcinogens are derived from petroleum and can wreak havoc on body systems, causing immediate nervous system imbalances in some, and if consumed consistently over time, they may be contributors to conditions such as cancer.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) claims that in small quantities, synthetic dyes are safe, but there has been a 500 percent increase in consumer consumption of dyes since

PRIME TIME

Be On Red Alert For Dyes In Foods, Skin Care Products the 1950s. This increase of synthetic chemicals in foods and body care products moves far beyond the quantities initially considered.

There are many seemingly benign items in the home that contain synthetic food dyes. To see for yourself, begin by looking at your cereal. Then take a look at your pickles, cherries, peanut butter, salad dressing, barbeque sauce, beverages, and of course, all those packaged sweets. Next, visit the bathroom and look at skin care products, soaps, toothpaste, cosmetics, shampoos, and over-the-counter and prescription medications. How can the body process such a large quantity of synthetic chemicals from dyes while maintaining health?

Research conducted in the 1970s by pediatrician Benjamin Feingold raised red flags about food dye that led to ongoing concern. However, it wasn’t until 2010 that the European Union required foods with synthetic dye to carry warning labels to declare the food “may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children.”

This mandate was motivated by a

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2007 study on sodium benzoate used in food dye, which was found to increase hyperactivity in children.

In 2015, the Scientific American shared a comprehensive meta-analysis performed by Oregon Health & Science University professor of psychiatry Joel Migg and his colleagues that points directly to a connection between synthetic food dyes and hyperactivity.

The research continues to be mixed about just how much synthetic food coloring is dangerous in the human food and body care product industry.

Until the science is crystal clear on this, you may choose to reconsider the amount of synthetic food dye you consume. Aim for whole, unprocessed foods and USDA certified organic labeled goods. Steer clear of chemicals in labels that bear colors and numbers such as Yellow Nos. 5 and 6 and Red 40, to name a few.

Food dyes can also serve as alarms for foods to avoid since they commonly accompany products filled with other harmful chemicals, fats, and sugars.

Naturally-derived colors are more expensive and do not achieve the same vibrancy as synthetic colors.

Organically labeled ingredients, which do not contain synthetic dyes, tend to look a little more pastel. The green and white USDA-certified organic label lists all ingredients on organic food processed with organic dyes extracted from natural ingredients, like turmeric and spinach. (The phrase “artificially colored” may, in some cases, also indicate a non-synthetic or organic color has been added.)

To offer bright red baked goodies to someone you love, try using beets.

Beets are high in fiber, sweet, and very red! Replace water in your recipe with beet juice for a powerfully colorful and nutrient-rich treat. Abundant Blessings!

Dr. Shellie L. Rosen, DOM, L.Ac.

PRIME TIME

February 2020

21

22 February 2020

Red Light May Offer Therapeutic Benefits

Dr. Gerard Muraida

The Doc Is In Dr. Muraida is a Hospice and Palliative Care Specialist.

T

he color red is associated with February’s cards and hearts and rosy sentiments of love. But for some, red light may be a beneficial healing agent useful at any time of year.

Red light therapy (RLT) is a controversial and largely experimental therapeutic technique ANSWER TO #5137

that uses red low-level wavelengths of light to treat skin issues, such as wrinkles, scars, and persistent wounds, among other conditions.

In the 1990s, red light was studied in space to determine if it could increase energy inside human cells. The researchers hoped that red light therapy could be an effective way to treat the muscle atrophy, slow wound healing, and bone density issues caused by weightlessness during space travel.

RLT has many synonyms including low-level light therapy, soft laser therapy, bio-stimulation and low-power laser therapy. When combined with photosensitizing medications, RLT causes a photodynamic response. In this type of therapy, the light only serves as an activating agent for the medication.

Commercially, red-light beds may be found at salons promoting reduction in stretch marks and wrinkles. Dermatologists have treated psoriasis, slow-healing

wounds, and even the side effects of chemotherapy with RLT.

So how does red light therapy work? The source of our body’s energy cell-wise is the mitochondria. It is thought that red light strengthens the mitochondria by inducing a biochemical reaction. The result of this reaction is the production of adenosine triphosphate, or ATP. Think of ATP as the wattage of a light bulb. The more ATP, the brighter the light, or in this instance, the more efficient our cells work and heal themselves.

RLT travels beneath our skin approximately 5 millimeters. It causes regeneration without the controlled damage of laser light.

RLT has not been shown to be more effective than other modalities and certainly research is ongoing. There is some evidence to suggest that RLT may be useful in the treatment of wound healing, hair regrowth, diabetic ulcers, minimalization of scars, and even pain syndromes.

PRIME TIME

The color red has been said to stimulate sensory nerves, helpful in deficiencies of smell, sight, hearing, taste and touch.

Red activates the circulation of the blood.

Red rays decompose the salt crystals in the body and act as a catalyst for ionization. RLT is particularly useful in the absorption of iron into the body.

Red has also been known to strengthen the physical energy and the will of the individual. It can stimulate deeper passions, whether they be of sex and love, courage, hatred or even revenge.

Red is useful in the management of stress. It also plays a key role in the health of the individual – physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

Red is a stimulating color, used to energize the root chakra (located in the pelvis). In short red is a vibrant, passionate and healing hue any month of the year.

Robert Benjamin

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PRIME TIME

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PRIME TIME