Connect Senior Active Living Edition

SENIOR ACTIVE LIVING EDITION

★ Saving for retirement

Babysitting tips for grandparents

★ Sleep like a child again ★ Secret witness to history FALL 2019

A publication of the Wise County Messenger

FALL 2019

Features Brain-healthy habits to embrace. . . . . . . . . . . 8 Venting history. . . . . . . . 10 Babysitting for grandparents . . . . . . . . 14

10 Plug in . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Calendar of events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

A spiced dessert for Halloween parties . . . . . 16 How to save more for retirement after 50 . . . . 18 Learn how to sleep like a child again. . . . . . . . . . 19

18 8 FALL 2019

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Letter to readers Fall is festival time.

If you don’t believe me, just look at how many local events we’ve got going on this Autumn in our calendar of events.

The air is a little bit crisper, and we all know the holidays are just around the corner. It’s a time for giving thanks and for celebration — we’ve almost made it through another year!

In addition to celebrating the fall season, this issue of Connect is also dedicated to senior active living.

For those of you 50 or older, we’ve included a number of features to keep your mind and body feeling young. We’ve also included some tips on saving for retirement and, as our cover demonstrates, tips for babysitting the grandkids.

And just in time for Veterans Day, we’ve reprinted a popular Wise County Messenger feature story on Decatur resident Gordon Barker who had a unique vantage point for the end of World War II. No matter your age, we encourage you to put those jackets on, go outside and live life to the fullest.

And most importantly, until next time, stay connected.

SENIOR ACTIVE LIVING EDITION

Roy J. Eaton President

940-627-5987 • Fax 940-627-1004 www.connectmag.net news@connectmag.net Connect is published by the Wise County Messenger, Inc., P.O. Box 149, 115 S. Trinity St., Decatur, Texas 76234-0149.

An erroneous reflection upon the character, standing or reputation of any firm, person or corporation, which appears in the columns of this paper will be corrected upon due notice given to the publication at the Messenger office. © 2019 Wise County Messenger

VOLUME 140 - NO. 64

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2019

Kristen Tribe Publisher

Richard Greene Editor

Brian Knox Special Projects Mgr.

Austin Jackson Editorial

Christian McPhate Editorial

Joy Burgess-Carrico Graphic Artist

Lisa Davis Advertising Manager

Lori White Advertising Sales

Laura Belcher Advertising Sales

Sandy Crump Advertising Sales

Kristi Bennett Business Manager

Donna Bean Classifieds

DECATUR, TEXAS

Oakes murder trial begins

BY BRIAN KNOX

and killing his father at their home two years ago began Tuesday in 271st Jury selection in the District Court in Decatur. trial of a Rhome teenWilliam Wyatt Oakes, ager accused of shooting 18, was charged with bknox@wcmessenger.com

murder after investigators said he killed his father, David Oakes, in their home on Private Road 4732 in the Diamond Ridge neighbor-

hood near Rhome Aug. 18, 2017.

Officers responded to a call about a disturbance at the home around 10 p.m.

See Oakes on page 12

PARADISE

SUBMITTED PHOTO

VALOR RETURNED — Myrtle Totty stands with her son Damon Mason and her daughter Molly Mason with their loved one’s returned medals.

Stolen valor

Purple Hearts Reunited unites loved ones with honor

BY CHRISTIAN MCPHATE cmcphate@wcmessenger.com

KELLY BASTING/WCMESSENGER

Brian Knox Special Projects Manager Wise County Messenger bknox@wcmessenger.com L I F E + F A M I LY + C O M M U N I T Y

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16 PAGES IN 1 SECTION PLUS INSERTS $1

WISE COUNTY

WISE COUNTY

ON THE PROWL — The Paradise Panther stands atop a fire truck leading the homecoming parade through downtown Monday evening. See more photos on page 7.

Billy D. Evans was outgunned and seemingly outmatched. He had spent the early morning hours of March 1967 in a machine-gun battle, surrounded by enemy insurgents and yet disregarded his own personal safety to direct the fire of his men against Viet Cong probes.

As a sergeant first class in the 5th Special

Forces Group, Evans was a Green Beret with experience and serving as a Special Forces adviser to a Vietnamese Army unit deep in enemy territory when they were attacked by a numerically superior Viet Cong force. Despite receiving a severe wound, he repealed the assault single-handedly until reinforcements arrived.

“When a determined attack broke through the See Stolen valor on page 7

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For the holidays

Visit these festively named locations The weeks between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day are some of the most anticipated, jolly and busy moments of the year. People partake in all sorts of traditions in the name of holiday festivity. Trimming the tree or caroling with friends may be some of the more standard holiday protocol. However, there are always opportunities to bring new traditions into the mix.

People bitten by the travel bug may want to include visiting new towns and cities as part of their holiday plans. In fact, it can be fun to take in the sites at these festively named locales across North America.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Bethlehem, Penn.

Christmas, Fla. Christmas, Mich.

Christmas Cove, Maine Evergreen, Ala. Hallelujah Junction, Calif.

Joy, Ill. Mistletoe, Ky. Noel, Mo. North Pole, Alaska Rudolph, Wis. Santa, Idaho Santa Claus, Ariz.

Santa Claus, Ga. Santa Claus, Ind. Snowflake, Ariz.

SANTA CLAUS, IND.

Service spotlight

Mammogram screenings available

Countless Wise County women over the age of 40 are not getting an annual mammogram as recommended by the American Cancer Society – and it’s not by choice.

Affordable group health insurance is not available to many employed Wise County women, while others may have health insurance but are limited to the number of screenings they may receive. Others have coverage, but their deductible is so high that they feel a mammogram is not affordable.

The Mary’s Gift Program through the Wise Health Foundation in Decatur was established to reach these women and men and provide free mammography services for low income, uninsured or underinsured Wise County residents. This includes 3D mammograms, diagnostic mammograms and biopsies.

The program is funded by community donations and fundraisers. Big fundraisers each year include: the Dazzle Me Pink fashion show and luncheon in April, the clay shoot tournament in August and Paint the Town Pink on the Decatur Square for Breast Cancer awareness month in October. This year’s Paint the Town Pink will be held on Friday, Oct. 18.

Call the Wise Health System Imaging Center at 940-626-1329 to apply and schedule your appointment today. Visit WiseHealthFoundation.com or call 940626-1384.

L I F E + F A M I LY + C O M M U N I T Y

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Link to the past

Texas Centennial Marker A state historical marker on Business U.S. 81/287 near Mulberry Street in Decatur tells of the historic Butterfield Overland Stage Line that passed through the area from 1858 to 1861. The Butterfield Overland Mail ran a semiweekly mail and passenger stage service from Missouri and Tennessee across Texas to California. But the marker itself may now be historical in its own right. The granite slab marker is a Texas Centennial Marker, one of 1,100 memorials or buildings placed around Texas in 1936 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Texas’ independence from Mexico. Just think: the marker was placed 75 years after the Butterfield Stage Line ended, but the marker itself has now stood even longer — 83 years!

What is ...

National Night Out? National Night Out began in August 1984 as a way to build a sense of community and promote police-community partnerships in an effort to make neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live. Each year millions of people take part in National Night Out events in all 50 states, hosting block parties, festivals, cookouts and more. For the past several years, local police departments including Decatur and Rhome have hosted National Night Out events in the fall, and this year’s events for each department are Oct. 1. The local events usually feature other first responders such as Wise County EMS and local fire departments as well.

Good to know

Get your flu vaccine Fall means flu season is back, and the best way to prevent getting sick is getting a flu vaccine.

According to the Center of Disease Control and Prevention, flu viruses infect the nose, throat, and lungs and can cause a wide range of complications.

People at high risk of flu complications include the following: ★ Children younger than 5, but especially younger than 2 years old ★ People 65 and older ★ People with asthma, heart disease, chronic lung disease, and neurological and neurodevelopmental conditions

People with blood, kidney, liver, endocrine, and metabolic disorders, including diabetes mellitus ★ People who have a weakened immune system due to disease or medication ★ Pregnant women and women up to two weeks postpartum ★ Residents of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities The CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine for everyone 6 months of age and older.

Talk to your health care provider for information or to find out when flu shots will be available. ★

FALL 2019

7

Brain-healthy habits to embrace

C

ognitive decline is a condition that is often associated with aging, but even middle-aged people can experience memory loss or cognition issues.

The Alzheimer’s Association says that more than 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. By 2050, that number could rise to as high as 16 million.

Although there is no definitive way to prevent dementia, living a long, vibrant life may be possible by encouraging some healthy habits for the brain.

It is never too late or early to begin health and lifestyle changes.

Exercise

Becoming more active can improve brain volume, reduce risk for dementia and improve thinking and memory skills. The journal Neurology found that older people who vigorously exercise performed better on cognitive tests than others of the same age, placing them at the equivalent of 10 years younger. Increased blood flow that occurs with physical activity may help generate new neurons in the hippocampus, an area of the brain involved with learning and memory.

The Harvard Medical School says aerobic exercise may help improve brain tissue by improving blood flow and reducing the chances of injury to the brain from cholesterol buildup in blood vessels.

Quit smoking

The Alzheimer’s Association indicates that evidence shows smoking increases the risk of cognitive decline.

Smoking can impair blood flow to the brain and cause small strokes that may damage blood vessels.

Eat healthy foods

Foods that are good for the heart and blood vessels also are good for the brain.

These include fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, fish-based proteins, unsaturated fats, and foods containing omega-3 fatty acids. Neurologists state that, while research on diet and L I F E + F A M I LY + C O M M U N I T Y

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cognitive function is limited, diets, such as Mediterranean and MediterraneanDASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), may contribute to a lower risk of cognitive issues.

Consume caffeine

Work the brain

Engaging in mentally stimulating activities can create new brain connections and more backup circuits, says Dr. Joel Salinas, a neurologist at Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital. Working the brain through puzzles, reading and participating in social situations can stimulate the release of brainderived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a molecule essential for repairing brain cells and creating connections between them.

A good way to combine these lifestyle factors is to take an exercise class with friends, mixing the social, stimulation and exercise recommendations together.

Cognitive decline can come with aging, but through healthy habits, people can reduce their risk of memory loss and dementia. ★

It is never too late or too early to begin health and lifestyle changes.

Caffeine may help boost memory performance and brain health. A Journal of Nutrition study found people ages 70 and older who consumed more caffeine scored better on tests of mental function than those who consumed less caffeine. Caffeine may help improve attention span, cognitive function and feelings of wellbeing. Information from Psychology Today also indicates caffeine may help in the storage of dopamine, which can reduce feelings of depression and anxiety. In addition, compounds in cocoa and coffee beans may improve vascular health and help repair cellular damage due to high antioxidant levels.

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Venting history 94-year-old veteran shares secret mission to witness history

H

STORY AND PHOTOS

BY AUSTIN JACKSON reprinted from the Wise County Messenger

unkering down in a reclining chair, surrounded by pictures of the past and his small dog Buttons, Governor’s Ridge resident Gordon Barker had a secret to share.

Only a few have heard it. Close friends and family were the only ones he trusted with the story of an hour spent on the USS Missouri in 1945. He feared a trip to the brig, he said. But now, the 94-year-old Decatur resident doesn’t have much to lose.

On Sept. 2, his daughter called him asking if the day was still significant to him.

Once the memory clicked, tears welled in his eyes. It wasn’t a general fondness for Labor Day. On the date, 74 years ago, Barker said he watched the ink dry on one of the most important chapters in U.S. history.

L I F E + F A M I LY + C O M M U N I T Y

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Barker saw World War II end from feet away behind an air vent. A memory he said he couldn’t forget, but also a memory he’s been scared to share.

“I thought it would be prison if they found out,” Barker said.

On the walls of his dimly lit room, there’s a copy of Japan’s Instrument of Surrender, the official document ending Japan’s fight in World War II. Underneath the document, there’s a photo of General Douglas MacArthur alongside Japanese Foreign Minister Mamoru Shigemitsu and General Yoshijiro Umezu from that day 74 years ago in a choppy Tokyo Bay.

What you can’t see in the photo was Barker and two of his crew on the USS Missouri — a ship Barker said they had no business being on.

Barker, a Navy machinist and engineer, fought from 1942 to 1945, spanning the European Theater in Normandy and France, and eventually in the Pacific Theater aboard the USS Fitch (DD 462).

When he was 17, Barker graduated early from high school in Worcester, Mass., to join the Navy and follow in his older brother’s footsteps.

After boot camp, Barker watched German artillery shells fly through the USS Fitch smokestacks like field goal posts in the Atlantic as they charged the beaches in Normandy. Later in the war, the USS Fitch was converted into a minesweeping vessel, which wasn’t much safer, Barker recalled, with a memory of being just feet away from a mine at night before spotting it.

But the repurposing of the Fitch, much like his decision to join the Navy in the first place, led him to a defining moment.

By 1945, Barker said he and many of his crew had served long enough to go home, but he and others wanted to finish the job. For Barker, it was simple. The war wasn’t over.

“Our job was to sweep and clean out mines that were in these harbors of all these little fishing villages,” Barker said. “We were work-

ing over there in 1945. Everybody had enough points to get out, but nobody did. We had too much work to do.”

On Aug. 26, 1945, Barker and the USS Fitch crew were tasked with sweeping mines in Tokyo Bay. A week later, Barker found himself tempted with history.

Word had spread I’m so blessed to of the Japanese surrender. The be aboard. I can bombings of Nahardly talk about it. gasaki and Hiroshima left Japan with few options.

Around 400 U.S. ships descended on the Tokyo Bay. War planes screamed overhead.

An agreement had been met. An official surrender would be held on the USS Missouri Sept. 2.

Barker said one officer from each of the ships was given permission to board the USS Missouri to witness the ceremony. The sailor planned on watching from afar after taking his officer on a 16-foot whaling ship to the USS Missouri. Barker dropped him off and thought that was it.

“Just as we were ready to leave, and lay off and ride the waves for whatever length of time, there was a boatswain’s mate on the stern,” Barker said. “He was yelling down at us. ‘Do you guys want to see this thing?’ This thing ... he called it. It was only three of us on the crew of the boat. I don’t know if it was me. But we said, ‘Yeah, I think we ought to do whatever we got to do to see it.’”

Barker said the boatswain’s mate yelled down at them to tie up at the back of the 900-foot-long, 57,000-ton battleship. He told them to climb up a rope ladder and most importantly, “stay out of sight.”

Mission accepted. Barker said he took the 16-foot whaling ship and tied it to the back of the massive boat and made a perilous 40-foot climb on a rope ladder.

“The water wasn’t close when you were up there,” he said.

Barker and the crew were wearing their white Navy dress uniforms. They thought they would camoflage in easily with the crowd.

But as they made the climb to the main deck, Barker saw hundreds of officers in tan uniforms.

It would be tough to blend in there.

So Barker and his men went incognito, find-

See Barker on page 12 FALL 2019

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Barker: Eye-witness to history

Continued from page 11

ing an air vent, he said. They hid behind the vent and peered out to see the end of World War II. “I’m so blessed to be aboard. I can hardly talk about it,” Barker said. “We stayed by that air vent going into the ship, kind of hiding behind it. And I could just see the hundreds, all of these allied officers. Not just our officers, but officers from other countries that were all in their khakis. We stayed there and all of these officers are standing around and there’s MacArthur, and across the table were these Japanese men, all in their swallowtail coats and silk hats. Oh boy, they were all gussied up.”

The ceremony took 23 minutes. Barker said he was on the ship for about an hour amongst some of the most powerful people in the world, witnessing a moment that sent celebrations across the globe.

“They were signing the peace treaty,” Barker said. “There was all these generals, admirals and everybody else, then us couple of sailors.”

After the ceremony ended, Barker and the two men slipped back to find their 16foot boat tied to the ship and made the trip back down, just in time to pick up their officer.

From that moment, the three men kept the journey a secret, Barker said.

“From that time until we came back, we three never said a word to anybody about L I F E + F A M I LY + C O M M U N I T Y

12

going aboard,” he said. “We had to keep it a secret. You could’ve gone to prison. We were not there until today, and I’m sitting here fat, dumb and sassy. I have my telephone out, and it’s my daughter. She said, ‘Do you know where you were 74 years ago yesterday?’ I said, ‘Come on, Nancy, I don’t know where I was last week.’ She told me, and I fell apart. I’m proud to have been there.

“There weren’t many there that weren’t supposed to be, but we were three of them.”

Once the war was over, the three men continued their service overseas. They wouldn’t get to go home until four months later, sweeping up mines until December.

For decades, he held onto the story. Some friends and family knew. But the three did their part in keeping it a secret for all this time. At 96, Barker decided it was time to share his glimpse of history.

“I’m proud of it. There was a lot of people there on that ship,” Barker said. “Now all I have is four years to go until I’m 100, and I hope I can make it. I wanted to share it because I’m so proud of it.”

Barker can look at his walls and find himself back on the USS Missouri, hunkering down to avoid detection. He saw the signatures that were later copied and printed live. He smelled that ocean air, and felt the excitement of the war ending spread from Tokyo Bay in the breeze. He saw it all from an air vent, a view and an hour he could never forget.★

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Babysitting for grandparents

W

itnessing your children getting older and starting their own lives and families can be bittersweet. There is pride that comes with seeing their successes, but the melancholy of knowing that the years have passed so quickly. Although you may no longer be tucking your children into bed, reading them bedtime stories or bandaging “boo-boos,” when your children have children, the chance to nurture can start anew.

One of the great joys that comes from having older children is the ability to welcome and love grandchildren.

Grandchildren are points of light in people’s lives and provide the exuberance and excitement that reminds you of your own youth. Grandparents often are thrilled to be involved in the care and upbringing of their grandkids. Some may also live with their grandchildren to help take some pressures off of adult children.

Babysitting is one way that grandparents can be a frequent fixture in their grandkids’ lives. If it’s been some time since you cared for little children, it’s well worth it to take a refresher course in child care.

Make sure it’s safe

Conduct a safety audit of your home if grandchildren will be coming over to your place. Are outlets secured with covers? Are medications out of reach? Do you have L I F E + F A M I LY + C O M M U N I T Y

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gates to block stairs or restrict access to certain rooms?

Modifications may be needed.

Assess your health

Chasing after children can be a workout. Be sure you are up for the challenge and have the stamina. If you have any medical conditions that can impair judgement or reaction time, you might want to reconsider babysitting.

Take directions

The way you parented may not be the same way your own children parent. The parenting guide Apt Parenting advises that you should ask about the children’s eating and sleeping habits. You may have to defer to your own children’s guidelines on discipline and behavior. Be humble and follow their lead.

Learn what’s new

Many things regarding childcare have changed in the last 20 years, including safety laws and guidelines. Be sure you are up to date on these changes. And if you aren’t certain about something, ask. This involves everything from crib bar widths to car seat installation.

Babysitting can be a joyous task for grandparents who are ready for the job.★

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A spiced dessert for Halloween parties

H

alloween party hosts may want to have a variety of treats on hand to satisfy the assortment of sweet tooths in attendance. Candy might be the first thing people think of on Halloween, but cakes and cookies can make for delicious treats as well.

Borrowing from the flavors of the season, including pumpkin, cinnamon and nutmeg, “Spiced Pumpkin Cake” from “Real Simple: Easy, Delicious Home Cooking (Time Home Entertainment)” from the editors of Real Simple can be a welcome addition to any Halloween spread.

Spice Pumpkin Cake Serves 12 1

cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature, plus more for the pan 3 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled, plus more for the pan 5 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice 11⁄2 teaspoons baking powder 3⁄4 teaspoon baking soda 1⁄2 teaspoon kosher salt 11⁄2 cups granulated sugar 3 large eggs 1 15-ounce can pumpkin puree 1⁄2 cup whole milk 1⁄4 cup molasses 11⁄4 cups confectioners’ sugar 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice Heat oven to 350 F. Butter and flour a 12-cup bundt pan.

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Using an electric mixer, beat the butter and granulated sugar on medium-high heat until fluffy, 2 to 3 minutes. One at a time, beat in the eggs. Beat in the pumpkin puree, milk, and molasses (the mixture may appear curdled). Reduce the mixer speed to low; gradually add the flour mixture and mix until just combined (do not overmix).

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 55 to 65 minutes. Let cool in the pan for 30 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.

L I F E + F A M I LY + C O M M U N I T Y

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In a small bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle over the cake. Let set before serving. ★ Tip: This cake can be baked and glazed up to one day in advance. Store, covered at room temperature.

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How to save more for retirement after 50

W

hether it’s advice from their parents, a response to television ads urging viewers to save for retirement, or their own financial savvy, many of today’s young professionals recognize the importance of saving for retirement from the moment they receive their first paychecks. But men and women over 50 may not have been so practical, and many such professionals may feel a need to save more as their retirements draw ever closer.

Saving for retirement might seem like a no-brainer, but the National Institute on Retirement Security notes that, in 2017, almost 40 million households in the United States had no retirement savings at all. In addition, the Employee Benefit Research Institute found that Americans have a retirement savings deficit of $4.3 trillion, meaning they have $4.3 trillion less in retirement savings than they should.

Men and women over 50 who have retirement savings deficits may need to go beyond depositing more money in their L I F E + F A M I LY + C O M M U N I T Y

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retirement accounts in order to live comfortably and pay their bills in retirement.

The following are a few simple ways to start saving more for retirement. ★ Redirect nonessential expenses into savings. Some retirement accounts, such as IRAs, are governed by deposit limits. But others, such as 401(k) retirement plans, have no such limits. Men and women can examine their spending habits in an effort to find areas where they can cut back on nonessential expenses, such as cable television subscriptions and dining out. Any money saved each month can then be redirected into savings and/or retirement accounts. ★ Reconsider your retirement date.

Deciding to work past the age of 65 is another way men and women over 50 can save more for retirement. Many professionals now continue working past the age of 65 for a variety of reasons. Some may suspect they’ll grow bored in retirement, while others may keep working out of financial need.

Others may simply love their jobs and want to keep going until their passion

runs out. Regardless of the reason, working past the age of 65 allows men and women to keep earning and saving for retirement, while also delaying the first withdrawal from their retirement savings accounts. ★ Reconsider your current and future living situation. Housing costs are many people’s most considerable expense, and that won’t necessarily change in retirement. Even men and women who have paid off their mortgages may benefit by moving to a region with lower taxes or staying in the same area but downsizing to a smaller home where their taxes and utility bills will be lower. Adults who decide to move to more affordable areas or into smaller, less expensive homes can then redirect the money they are saving into interest-bearing retirement or savings accounts.

Many people begin saving for retirement the moment they cash their first professional paycheck. But even adults over the age of 50 sometimes feel a need to save more as their retirement dates draw closer, and there are many ways to do just that. ★

Learn how to sleep like a child again

M

any adults lament that even if they were solid sleepers in their younger years, by the age of 50, their quality of sleep has unraveled. Some cling to the wisdom that people simply do not need as much sleep as they get older.

Even though that is partly true, sufficient sleep is still a vital component of a healthy life.

The National Sleep Foundation recently updated its sleep recommendations per age group to include categories “may be appropriate” and “not recommended.” This includes a range of hours that may be adequate for certain adults. Adults between the ages of 26 and 65 are advised to get seven to nine hours of sleep per evening. However, six hours or 10 hours also may be acceptable. People over 65 need roughly seven to eight hours of sleep each night, though between five and six hours also may be

fine. Generally speaking, anything under five hours is not recommended based on data reviewed by sleep experts.

Many older adults do not get enough sleep due to insomnia, states Jack Gardner, MD, a neurologist certified in sleep medicine. They’re concerned about health issues, may have sleep apnea, can experience pain or frequent urination, or may be taking medication that impedes sleep. Dr. Leila Kheirandish-Gozal, director of clinical sleep research at the University of Chicago, says that, over time, insufficient sleep can impact metabolism, mood, memory, and heart function.

Various strategies can help people get more sleep and enjoy better sleep quality. ★ Create a luxury bed environment.

Splurge on the largest mattress you can afford and one that is comfortable for both parties (if married/coupled). A

roomy bed routinely invites sleep. If you have a restless partner, try two separate beds pushed against each other. ★ Consider white noise. The sounds of the house or outdoors may be keeping you up. Many people find that the gentle hum of a fan or a white-noise machine with a calming sound effect makes it easier for them to dose off than complete quiet. It can also block out extraneous noises. ★ Keep electronics out of the bedroom.

It can be challenging to disconnect from electronics, but it is essential to falling asleep. Even a back-lit text coming through in the wee hours can be enough illumination to disrupt sleep. ★ See your doctor. If medications or illnesses are keeping you up, a change in regimen may provide the relief you need.

Older adults can learn the steps to sleeping more soundly and easily. ★ FALL 2019

19

OCTOBER

OF EVENTS State Fair of Texas Through Oct. 20

National Night Out Oct. 1

This Texas tradition features livestock shows, creative competitions, food, games, exhibits, musical performances and more.

Fair Park in Dallas / 214-565-9931 / bigtex.com

The Decatur Police Department hosts the event, aimed at increasing police-community partnerships, raising crime prevention awareness and having some fall fun.

Downtown Decatur

Cruise Nights on the Courthouse Square Oct. 5 Classic car enthusiasts gather the first Saturday evening of the month in May, June, September and October.

Registration is 4-7. Stores and restaurants are open late. The event is put on by the Decatur Main Street program.

Downtown Decatur / decaturmainstreet.com / 940-399-9558

Greenwood-Slidell Volunteer Fire Department Fish Fry and Concert Oct. 12 The Greenwood-Slidell Volunteer Fire Department will hold a fish fry fundraiser at 4 p.m. at Eagles Canyon Raceway.

The event will include a free concert by Jason Boland and The Stragglers.

Oct. 5 The annual fundraiser features a craft fair and yard sale. Booth fees and donations benefit the Boonsville Community Center.

Boonsville / 940-3998286

Chicken & Bread Days Oct. 5 Bowie hosts an annual festival which features a classic car show, vendors, food booths and live music.

Downtown Bowie / 940-872-6246

Greenwood Fall Festival Oct. 12 The Greenwood Fall Festival includes a parade, craft and food booths, game booths, children’s train ride, a silent auction, raffles, door prizes and beans and cornbread. It’s put on by the Greenwood Extension Education Club.

Greenwood / 940-627-7999 or 940-466-7597

Newark Cruisin’ Days Oct. 10-12

Depot Day Oct. 12

Cruisin’ Days is hosted by the Newark Volunteer Fire Department and Ladies Auxiliary. All proceeds from ticket sales benefit those groups. It includes carnival rides and midway games, a parade, dance, barbecue and more.

Newark Fire Hall

The annual festival hosted by the Gainesville Area Chamber of Commerce features the Kids Zone, arts and crafts vendors, an antique car and truck show that features over 200 cars, festival foods and live entertainment.

Downtown Gainesville

L I F E + F A M I LY + C O M M U N I T Y

20

Boonsville Bazaar

Back the Blue Glowball Golf Tournament Oct. 12 The Decatur Police Department hosts the annual golf tournament to raise money for a scholarship fund that supports graduating seniors interested in a career in public safety.

Bridgeport Country Club

OCTOBER Girls Night Out Oct. 17 The Decatur Main Streetsponsored event includes stores staying open late and refreshments.

Downtown Decatur / decaturmainstreet.com

Fort Worth Alliance Air Show Oct. 19-20

Paint the Town Pink Oct. 18 Sponsored by the Decatur Main Street Program and Wise Health Foundation, the event celebrates survivors of breast cancer and remembers those lost to the disease. Cancer survivors paint a pink stripe down Main Street to help raise awareness of the importance of an annual mammography. Fundraisers are held for Mary’s Gift and Women’s Services at Wise Health System.

Downtown Decatur

Decatur Chamber of Commerce Auction Oct. 19 The Chamber uses the funds raised through the annual auction to fund its day-to-day operations, promote tourism, business development and economic growth. They also sponsor scholarships for Decatur High School graduates. The Decatur Citizen of the Year is also awarded at the event.

Decatur Conference Center / decaturtx. com / 940-627-3107

Chico Fest Oct. 19

Voices From Our Past Oct. 19

The annual community fundraising event includes vendors, barbecue lunch, games, raffles, baked goods, the Mr. and Miss Chico Fest pageant and more. The event is sponsored by the Chico Chamber of Commerce, and funds raised from the event benefit the Chico Chamber Scholarship fund.

Downtown Chico

The Wise County Genealogical Society will hold its second annual cemetery tour, Voices From Our Past. Individuals spotlighted this year include Henry Ellerby, Jacob Preston Kellam, Kansas Tidwell, wife of J. B. Tidwell, and Elizabeth Halsell. Cost is a donation of $5 per person or $10 per family.

Oaklawn Cemetery in Decatur / wisegenealogy.org

Meals on Wheels Golf Tournament Oct. 19

Autumn Art Walk Oct. 20

The Wise County Committee on Aging will hold its first golf tournament to benefit Meals on Wheels of Wise County. The event will include breakfast, prizes and a lunch cart.

RB Golf Club and Resort in Runaway Bay / wisemeals.org / 940-507-0216

Saginaw Train and Grain Festival Oct. 26 Originally held annually in the 1990s to early 2000s, the festival celebrating the town’s history returns this year. It will include live music, performances by area groups, a children’s area, petting zoo, a car show, a food area for local restaurants, arts and crafts, corn hole tournament and more.

Saginaw High School / saginawtraingrain.org

The annual air show is considered one of the best civilian shows in the nation.

Alliance Airport in Fort Worth / allianceairshow.com

Area artists will be set up around the gardens, featuring demonstrations and artwork for sale. It will also feature live music, food and tours of the garden and mansion.

Chandor Gardens in Weatherford

Spooktacular Fall Festival Oct. 26 Bridgeport Parks and Recreation hosts the event, which includes games, candy and a costume contest.

Bridgeport Community Center

Boo Bash Oct. 27 The trunk or treat event is held on the Decatur Square. Past events have included contests for best decorated vehicle, a pet costume contest, hay rides, kids activities and live music. Proceeds of the event benefit Decatur Main Street and local charities.

Downtown Decatur / decaturmainstreet.com

Suit Up and Say Boo Oct. 31 The trick or treat event is held on Halsell Street.

Downtown Bridgeport FALL 2019

21

NOVEMBER

OF EVENTS Decatur Swirl Nov. 2 Shop downtown businesses while enjoying savory delights from local eateries paired with Texas wines. Registration is 5:30 p.m. at the Decatur Visitor’s Center, the wine and food tasting follows from 6 to 9. The event is sponsored by the Decatur Main Street Program.

Downtown Decatur / decaturswirl.com

Holiday Open House Nov. 2 Participating downtown businesses take part in this holiday event.

Downtown Decatur

Veterans Day Programs Nov. 11 The annual event pays tribute to military veterans.

Wise County Veterans Memorial Park in Decatur and other Veterans Parks in the county

Thanksgiving Day Brunch Nov. 21

A Touch of Rust Vintage Craft Show Nov. 16

Fair will include more than 30 vendors featuring items such as home decor, acrylic art, jewelry, wreaths and floral arrangements, baked goods, handmade aprons, Christmas stockings, quilted Christmas tree skirts, ornaments, horseshoe art, candles and more.

Young County Arena, Barclay Room, in Graham

The Decatur Conference Center serves a brunch buffet.

Decatur Conference Center / decaturciviccenter.com / 940-393-0280

The fun and eclectic market with local creative and unique exhibitors offers vintage, handcrafted, retro and junky-cute furniture, art, home decor, handmade items, clothing, jewelry and more.

Wise County Fairgrounds in Decatur / atouchofrust.com

AAA Texas 500 Nov. 3

Lucky Seven Nov. 29

The Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series stock car race returns for its 15th year.

Texas Motor Speedway near Justin / texasmotorspeedway.com / 817-215-8500

Local businesses hold special sales from 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Some participating stores offer discounts that change by the hour. The event is sponsored by the Decatur Main Street program.

Decatur / decaturmainstreet.com

Girls Day Out Nov. 9

Blue Ribbon Bash Nov. 22

Rhome Tree Lighting Nov. 30

The Wise Youth Ag Syndicate fundraiser includes an auction and dance.

Decatur Conference Center

The annual community Christmas tree lighting event is hosted by the Rhome Veterans Group.

Rhome Veterans Park

Graham Fall Craft Fair Nov. 2

This event to encourage shopping locally is put on

by Bridgeport Main Street, and this month’s theme is “Who Let the Girls Out.” Halsell Street in Bridgeport / 940-683-3404 L I F E + F A M I LY + C O M M U N I T Y

22

DECEMBER

Santa and the Stagecoach Dec. 2

Decatur Woman’s Club Tour of Homes Local homes and businesses decorated with a dazzling display of Christmas cheer are open for a public tour. Proceeds are used by the Decatur Woman’s Club to benefit local organizations.

Decatur

Christmas in Nocona Dec. 7 The holiday event features games, music, food, drawings for prizes, Santa and Mrs. Claus, a parade at 2:30 followed by the Fireman’s Fish Fry. Mary Beckman Davis Downtown Park in Nocona / nocona.org

Girls Night Out Dec. 12 The Christmas on the Square event includes stores open late and refreshments.

Downtown Decatur / decaturmainstreet.com

Breakfast with Santa Dec. 14 The annual pancake breakfast sponsored by the Decatur Fire Department includes a visit from Santa.

Decatur Fire Hall / Decatur Fire Department on Facebook

The annual holiday event features the tree lighting, live entertainment, Santa Claus, kid crafts, food and holiday family fun.

Bridgeport City Hall / cityofbridgeport.net / 940-683-3400

Wise County Toy Run Dec. 1 Motorcycle riders from across North Texas participate in the ride from Decatur to Bridgeport, bringing toy donations for Wise County children who need a little help at Christmas.

Decatur to Bridgeport / wisetoyrun.com

Tree Lighting Dec. 3 The Decatur Chamber of Commerce will host a tree lighting on the Courthouse Square.

Downtown Decatur / decaturtx.com / 940-627-3107

Breakfast with Santa Dec. 7 The come-and-go event includes breakfast, crafts and a photo with Santa.

Bridgeport Community Center

Christmas on the Square Dec. 7

Lights on Halsell Christmas Parade Dec. 5 The lighted parade through the heart of Bridgeport is sure to put you in a holiday mood.

Downtown Bridgeport / cityofbridgeport.net

Santa on the Streets Dec. 15-19 The Decatur Fire Department provides the escort for Santa as he visits all the neighborhoods in town during the week.

Decatur / Decatur Fire Department on Facebook

The Weatherford Chamber of Commerce hosts the annual holiday celebration that includes a parade at 10 a.m. and a full day of fun, festive activities.

Downtown Weatherford / weatherford-chamber.com

Moonlight Madness Dec. 7 The Decatur Chamber of Commerce hosts this annual event each Christmas season. It includes a lighted evening parade, holiday activities for kids and stores open late.

Downtown Decatur / decaturtx.com / 940-627-3107

Wise County Chamber Awards Dec. 7 The Wise County Chamber of Commerce hosts its annual awards dinner.

Decatur Conference Center / wisecountychamber.com FALL 2019

23

HealthWise Clinic QUALITY CARE FOR YOUR FAMILY AMILY

John Richardson,MD

Family Practice & Geriatrics

Dr.

John Richardson was searching for a place that he felt was in line with h his n and he ng values as a person. A place where he could have a practice that was gratifying help them found it in Decatur. He knew early on that he wanted to work with people to help riatrics is age gracefully. He believes the biggest misconception about working with geriatrics you are taking care of people that are at the end of their lives, but what he is really trying to do is keep people active.

He says “Active Living is the key to aging well. Keeping patients physically active, socially active and mentally active. Physical activity will help you maintain your muscles and balance, social interaction and mental activity helps keep your mind sharp.” He also suggests healthy eating and avoiding bad habits like alcohol and tobacco.

In the last 15 years he has seen a lot of improvements to patient care

s from one systems. The communication and attention to details in transitioning patients care location to the next allows doctors the capability to keep informed from the ER to the hospital to rehabilitation. “We know what tests have been run and theirr results, h Wise what medications were prescribed and why. We have such a connection with e complexHealth System. It allows us to keep ahead of the curve with information.” The allenging ity of problems with different medications continues to be one of the most challenging ication aspects of his job. Dr. Richardson explains: “You have to be careful with medication nt thing I use to not make patients worse with treatment. I feel like the most important can do for patients is listen to what they have to say and if I listen to what at they are atients and telling me I can carefully guide them with questions to help. Connecting to patients learning their stories has given me a great sense of what life is all about and what is most important in life.”

• Diabetes • Heart Disease • Asthma/Emphysema • High Blood Pressure Stephanie Roddenberry, NP

• Preventative Medicine

• Urgent Care • Sports Physicals • Male & Female Wellness Exams • Gastrointestinal Disorders

2301 S. FM 51, SUITE 500, DECATUR • 940-627-0013