October 2015 OutreachNC magazine

CO M PLI M ENTARY

OCTOBER 2015 VOL. 6, ISSUE 10

North Carolina Still Home and Setting for Latest Nicholas Sparks Novel, “See Me”

Serving the Southern Piedmont, Sandhills & Triangle

OCTOBER 2015 |

OutreachNC.com 1

| OUTREACHNC.COM

race to recovery

:

joint replacement program

capeable

of getting you back in the game

Whether your passion is golf, tennis or even taking walks with your spouse, when the pain of arthritis makes you consider hip or knee replacement surgery, there’s really only one choice.

Only one joint replacement program in the Sandhills has been awarded two Gold Seals of ApprovalTM from The Joint Commission, the nation’s premier accreditation agency.

And Cape Fear Valley is designated a Blue Distinction CenterSM for Hip and Knee surgery by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina. Just two of the many reasons we’re CAPEable of keeping you in the game.

For a referral to an orthopedic surgeon who is part of Cape Fear Valley’s award-winning Race to Recovery joint replacement program, please call Carelink at (910) 615-link (5465) or toll free at 1-888-728-well.

2

OutreachNC.com Cape Fear Valley has earned| OCTOBER 2015 The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval

TM

www.capefearvalley.com

OCTOBER 2015 |

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features OCTOBER 2015

28

Volunteering Gives Back Twofold

by Caroline Curran

31

6 Ways to Fall into Volunteering

by Rachel Stewart

32

Another Season of Storytelling

by Flo Johnston

34

12 Superfoods to Fall For

by Carrie Frye

40

Carolina Conversations with Best-Selling Author Nicholas Sparks

by Carrie Frye

44

Decoding Depression’s Darkness

by Rachel Stewart

46

Sail Through the Medicare Annual Election Period with N.C. SHIIP

by Jonathan Scott

50

Sharing the Song in Her Heart

by Thad Mumau

58

4

Better with Age: 1930 Dodge Bros. Sedan OutreachNC.com

by Carrie Frye| OCTOBER 2015

Giving Back Issue

My family’s history with cancer began with me ...

664-60-15

...With the help of FirstHealth Cancer Care, it will end with me, too.

My life changed on an ordinary winter morning when I found two golf ball-sized lumps in my breast. I was just 33 and about to start an unwanted life’s journey with Stage 4 breast cancer. My family wanted me to go to a large university cancer center, but I knew I had the best care here at home with FirstHealth Cancer Care. Beyond treatment, they offer genuine compassion and concern for my family and me by making me feel like I am at home.

- Kimberly McLean, Lee County Cancer Survivor

FirstHealth Cancer Care offers comprehensive cancer services, including patient navigation, nutrition and dietary assistance, stress management, massage therapy, clinical trials and more.

Learn more at nccancercare.org and let FirstHealth care for you.

OCTOBER 2015 | OutreachNC.com 5

departments October 2015

Pale amber sunlight falls across The reddening October trees, That hardly sway before a breeze As soft as summer: summer’s loss Seems little, dear! on days like these. ―Ernest Dowson

16

38

22 10

advice & health

life

Ask the Expert

by Amy Natt

22

Reading for Generations

by Michelle Goetzl

64

Resource Marketplace Find the resources you need.

12

Caregiving

by Mike Collins

23

Literary Circle

by Cos Barnes

66

Generations

by Carrie Frye

14

Consumer Beware

by Roy Cooper

26

Gentleman’s Notebook

by Ray Linville

15

Make Downsizing Less Stressful

38

Cooking Simple

by Rhett Morris

16

Breast Cancer Awareness

by Michael Batalo, MD

54

Grey Matter Games Sudoku, Word Search & Crossword

18

Planning Ahead

by Beth Donner

56

Fitness

by Mike Robinson

20

Law Review

by Jackie Bedard

60

Game On

by Thad Mumau

24

6

Brain Health

by MaryBeth Bailar, Psy.D.

OutreachNC.com | OCTOBER 2015

63

Belle Weather

by Celia Rivenbark

COMPLIMENTAR Y

OCTOBER 2015 VOL. 6, ISSUE 10

North Carolina Still Home and Setting for Latest Nicholas Sparks Novel, “See Me”

Serving the Southern Piedmont, Sandhills

& Triangle

OCTOBER 2015 |

OutreachNC.com 1

| OUTREACHNC.COM

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY

BY NINA SUBIN

Miss an issue?

Top-ranked cancer care at Duke Medicine-affiliated Scotland Cancer Treatment Center, plus top-ranked surgical care at Scotland Memorial. All without the drive.

B

Read it online Our Coa stal

A Toast

Destina tion: Res tau

to the C oast Bal

Wrights in Wilmington rants! ville & Car , olina Bea ches

Plus

Issue!

d Hea Historic d Island al tour of Old Bald y

SEAG

August 2013

ROVE CELE THE CHAR BRAT ES LIE DAN 100 YEAR IELS BAND S | THE N.C. TOM COM ES TO SANF ATO MAN | Volume ORD 4,

Issue 8

| www

.Outreac hNC.com

h!

What's Online?

OutreachNC.com

articles

recipes advice resources

subscribe today! $26.99 for 12 issues

Be Social with Follow us on Twitter: @OutreachNC Like us on Facebook Connect with us on LinkedIn

c a n c e r ’s n o t s o s c a r y

knowing this little guy has my back

Once a woman turns 40, she should start scheduling annual mammograms.

Linda was glad she’d heeded that advice nine years earlier.

Since then, each mammogram had brought good news. No problems.

Then, eight months after her last mammogram, she detected a lump. Linda’s physician immediately sent her to Scotland Imaging Center for another mammogram. A biopsy by general surgeon Dr. Steve Lanuti confirmed cancer.

Linda admits the word was frightening. Yet from diagnosis and mastectomy at Scotland Memorial through chemotherapy at Scotland Cancer Treatment Center, she was comforted by the love and support of her family – her son, her daughter in law, and especially her four-year-old grandson Jace.

Last check, Linda showed no sign of cancer. Nevertheless, she’ll continue to schedule regular mammograms as she’s done over the past nine years. “Do it for yourself and for all the people who love you,” Linda urges. “Dr. Raybon is a wonderful doctor, so there’s no need to drive a long way for cancer care.

You can stay close to home and family.”

Schedule your mammogram today 910.291.7244 • scotlandhealth.org/cancer

OCTOBER 2015 |

OutreachNC.com 7

from the editor

O

ctober is here to give a crispness to the air and the beginning of the beautiful fall in Carolina colors.

A few months ago as I was driving through downtown Sanford, an amazing mural and all of its colors painted on the side of a building at the corner of Wicker Street and Horner Boulevard caught my eye. It depicts a baseball pitcher delivering his pitch and pays homage to Howard Auman and Sanford’s Tobacco League State Championships in 1946, ’47 and ’48.

Making a note, I called our “Game On” columnist, Thad Mumau, to inquire if he knew about Auman or the story behind the mural. Not to my surprise, Thad knew Howard Auman, and the story unfolded. Auman, who lived to be 93, did see the mural just weeks before passing away and was surprised the city would honor him. Auman’s baseball legacy lives on, and every time I drive by, I smile and hope he is smiling from above. Read the whole story on Page 60.

Fruits and vegetables this time of year are bursting with color: orange, dark green, burgundy and all the shades of fall. This month, I had the challenge to come up with fall superfoods that were not the typical sweet potato or pumpkin. I was able to compile 12 enticing and tasty options, most of which can be found abundantly at your local farmers market. Some I am a fan of, like winter squash; others I have never tasted and am anxious to try—parsnips and rutabaga— but all can be used in a cornucopia of fall recipes.

The real joy of the superfoods was assembling the produce with our photographer when Jeeves, our beloved feline co-editor, decided to participate.

Apparently, Jeeves already knew the health benefits of dates and decided to take a bite. To learn about all 12 superfoods, see the story on Page 34.

Thank you for sharing your time and turning pages with us. Until next month...

—Carrie Frye

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OutreachNC.com | OCTOBER 2015

Editor in Chief Carrie Frye | carrief@OutreachNC.com Contributing Graphic Designers Nikki Lienhard, Jonathan Scott Contributing Proofreaders Jennifer Kirby, Michelle Goetzl, Kate Pomplun Contributing Photographers Diana Matthews, Rebecca Solveig Zver, Nina Subin Contributing Writers Cos Barnes, MaryBeth Bailar, Michael Batalo, Jackie Bedard, Mike Collins, Roy Cooper, Caroline Curran, Beth Donner, Michelle Goetzl, Flo Johnston, Ray Linville, Rhett Morris, Thad Mumau, Celia Rivenbark, Mike Robinson, Jonathan Scott, Rachel Stewart

Y Publisher Amy Natt | amyn@AgingOutreachServices.com Marketing & Public Relations Director Susan McKenzie | susanm@AgingOutreachServices.com Advertising Sales Executive Shawn Buring | shawnb@OutreachNC.com 910-690-1276 OutreachNC PO Box 2478 | 676 NW Broad Street Southern Pines, NC 28388 910-692-9609 Office | 910-695-0766 Fax info@OutreachNC.com PO Box 2019 | 101-A Brady Court Cary, NC 27512 919-909-2693 Office | 919-535-8719 Fax info@OutreachNC.com

www.OutreachNC.com OutreachNC is a publication of Aging Outreach Services, Inc. The entire contents of OutreachNC are copyrighted by Aging Outreach Services. Reproduction or use without permission of editorial, photographic or graphic content in any manner is prohibited. OutreachNC is published monthly on the first of each month.

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advice

Our Aging Life CareTM Professionals will answer any aging questions you may have.

Email us your questions!

ASK THE EXPERT

info@OutreachNC.com

Keeping Track and Organizing Medical Information

by Amy Natt, MS, CMC, CSA My wife and I are trying to organize all of our medical information. Both of us have several doctors we see, and it is getting hard to keep up with all the papers we are given at appointments.

Do you have a suggestion for what to keep and what to throw away?

What a great question, as many of us are facing mounds of paperwork and information that we are not quite sure what to do with. It is hard to tell what needs to be kept, where to keep it and what can be discarded.

Then there is all the information you receive in the mail regarding the bill and insurance processing (explanation of benefits). If you have multiple appointments and medical providers, it can become overwhelming.

I would start by determining what is billing- and insurance-related and what is personal medical information. To organize the paperwork, you can use files, binders, or if you are tech savvy, scan the papers to your computer and make digital files. I personally like binders.

You can create a binder that is for medical bills you receive and any related insurance benefits. If you organize your binder by provider or physician, you can match the bill to any related insurance claims that come in the mail. This will help you make sure insurance has been processed and what your medical expenses are for the year.

As far as personal medical information, you need to decide what is important to be able to access for your future care. Many physicians provide a summary of your visit, or if you are in the hospital you might get a summary of discharge orders. Your pharmacy can also provide you with a printed list of all your medications.

If you create a binder or accordion file, you can have your contact information in the front with a list of all your physicians, diagnoses and current medications.

You might want to include a copy of your insurance cards and Medicare card as well. Include all of the things you are normally asked for when you go to a medical appointment. You can then create a tab for

each provider you see. Include your physicians as well as dentist, audiologist and other specialists. You can keep medical information received in each section. If you take this book with you to appointments, it will also help you ask questions about your recent medical changes and updates.

If you want to be really ambitious, you can use this system to prepare for appointments as well. I have a doctor appointment planner that I often use with clients to help them organize their information. Each page has a place for the date and name of provider. You can then list questions you want to ask during the appointment and record responses. This enables you to look back at the information later to recall what was discussed. Two key points to remember: • •

Keep information in a safe, confidential location.

Keep information up to date.

Many providers now have patient portals as well. If using the patient portal, much of your information is accessible and stored digitally, reducing the paper you need to keep. You may also be given information regarding general privacy practices that you can review and then discard. Remember to shred documents that contain your name and any identifying information.

If you would like a copy of our doctor appointment planner, email me at amyn@agingoutreachservices.com.

Readers may send questions to Natt, an Aging Life CareTM Professional, certified senior advisor and CEO of Aging Outreach Services. She can be reached at amyn@agingoutreachservices.com.

No one can avoid aging, but aging productively is something else.

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—Katharine Graham

OCTOBER 2015 |

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advice

CAREGIVING CAN MAKE LIFE CRAZY!

Caregiving Craziness and the 5 H’s

by Mike Collins

W

henever I talk about “Caregiver Craziness,” I get some pushback from health care professionals and educators. They don’t like the use of the word crazy. I remind them that my use of crazy has nothing to do with mental challenges; it has everything to do with how the stresses of caregiving make us feel, think and act.

When I am talking to a group of family caregivers and ask, “How many of you believe caregiving makes you crazy?” almost every hand in the room will go up.

The craziness of caregiving is due to the impact of the stress on five areas of life. I call them, “The 5 H’s: Health, Head, Heart, Home and Hands (Work).”

The areas interconnect. For example, if a caregiver’s health suffers, her condition can have an impact on how she thinks, the emotions she feels, how smoothly family relationships flow and how efficient and effective she might be on the job.

The 5 H’s HEALTH: You can’t give it if you don’t have it to give.

The negative health impact of caregiving stress is well known. A recent study by the Pew Research Center found caregivers are “likely to report poor health themselves.”

According to the Family Caregiver Alliance, caregivers often experience increased blood pressure and insulin levels that may cause an impaired immune system, and they may be at higher risk of cardiovascular disease. You must maintain and, in some cases, improve your health if you hope to continue to be a successful caregiver.

YOUR HEAD: How distracted would you be if someone came to you and said, “You must immediately learn quantum physics. The life of your loved one and, probably, your life, will depend on how well you do in this subject, starting right now?” Do you think you might lose your car keys, or forget where you parked your car at the mall, or miscalculate a grocery bill? Caregiving responsibilities don’t constitute just one more thing to 12

OutreachNC.com | OCTOBER 2015

think about in your life, they represent a new life for which caregivers are rarely prepared.

YOUR HEART: How does caregiver stress affect emotions? Research estimates that 40-70 percent of caregivers have clinically significant symptoms of depression, with approximately one quarter to one half of these caregivers meeting the diagnostic criteria for major depression. The feeling, “I want my life back,” and caregivers’ beliefs that they have lost their loved ones often create an emotional weight too great to easily bear.

The combination of shock, anger, fear, guilt, denial and compassion fatigue leaves a stunning number of caregivers suffering from depression.

YOUR HOME: Family responsibilities and staying ahead of the clutter and chaos of maintaining your home can be full-time jobs in themselves. During your caregiving experience, you need to find ways to ask for help from family and friends and look for shortcuts and suggestions for filling needs from preparing meals to creating a haven for yourself.

YOUR HANDS (WORK): Trying to juggle caregiving and your work life often becomes an overwhelming source of stress. Studies show that caregivers often suffer lower pay and fewer career opportunities due to their caregiving responsibilities.

In coming months, I’ll offer tips, tactics and strategies to help deal with each of “The 5 H’s.” For now, take care of yourself, ask more questions and understand that you are doing the best you can. ©2015 Mike Collins.

Collins is a caregiver and the producer of the video, “Care for the Caregiver,” winner of a National Caregiver Friendly Award from Today’s Caregiver magazine. Visit www.caregivercraziness.com for ways to deal with the craziness of caregiving.

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The right dentist can make all the difference.

advice

C O N S U M E R B E WA R E

Guard Against Grandparent Scams

by N.C. Attorney General Roy Cooper

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Most grandparents will do anything to help their grandkids, and scammers know this. Con artists who run grandparent scams typically claim to be a grandchild who is traveling, gets injured or into trouble with the law, and needs money right away—but doesn’t want Mom or Dad to know about it.

The scam starts with a caller who says, “Grandma/Grandpa, it’s me!” The grandparent often responds with his or her grandchild’s name, giving the scammer the information needed to complete the con. The grandparent is then asked to send thousands of dollars, by wiring money or loading funds onto gift cards. Victims rarely realize they’ve been scammed before the funds are gone for good.

Imposters find names, information about real travel plans and other details that grandchildren share on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts to make the fake phone calls sound more credible.

This year alone, my Consumer Protection Division has heard from 31 victims who lost more than $650,000 combined to grandparent scams.

For example, an Asheville grandmother was asked to deposit $6,000 into a Bank of America account to help her grandson, who supposedly called her in distress from the Dominican Republic. In reality, her grandchild was safe at home.

TO GUARD AGAINST GRANDPARENT SCAMS: • Don’t answer calls from phone numbers you don’t recognize or emails from addresses that aren’t familiar to you.

• Beware of anyone who asks you to send money immediately.

• Don’t share information about you or your family with anyone you don’t know who calls, emails, or contacts you through other means.

• If you get a call or a message asking for help, hang up or log off and contact the person directly at a number you know is theirs to make sure the request is legitimate.

• If someone claims to be a loved one, ask the person questions that only your real family member would be able to answer.

• Share carefully on social media. Make sure your privacy settings prevent strangers from accessing information about you or your family.

• Never wire or send money in response to a phone call, email or online message. Once the money has been received by a fraudster, it’s almost impossible to get it back.

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OutreachNC.com | OCTOBER 2015

For more consumer tips, visit www.ncdoj.gov or call the Consumer Protection Division at 1-877-5-NO-SCAM.

Make Downsizing Less Stressful T

he kids are gone, the house is too big, the lawn takes too much work; or maybe you want to move closer to the center of town or be part of a community of older adults. For most older adults, there comes a time when you need or want to downsize. The easy part may be packing up your possessions.

The harder aspect is saying goodbye to what may be a lifetime of memories or choosing what is essential for you. What can you give away or give up? Who or what should be the recipient? What should you keep?

For adults over 60, only a spouse’s death and divorce rank as more stressful than moving to a nursing or retirement home, according to the Social Readjustment Rating Scale—the Stress Scale.

TIPS FOR DOWNSIZING

Start slowly: It will be emotionally easier to tackle one room or part of a room at a time, giving yourself some breaks in between. (Consider distracting yourself with a movie or dinner with friends). You can start with an easier room, like a bathroom, that has less emotional impact. Once you’ve emptied one larger room, use it to organize the rest of the house or apartment. Be easy on yourself.

Organize: Figure out exactly how much space you will have in your new home, including storage in the kitchen, closets and cabinets. How many dishes, clothes, books and so forth will you have room for? If your new space is half of what you have now, you know how much you have to get rid of. If you have more possessions than space, you can always rent a storage locker, but it can be expensive over the long haul and may just put off the hard decisions of what to keep and what to get rid of.

To stay organized, create piles for things you want to keep, give to family and friends, sell/donate or throw away. To make letting go easier, take photos of what you’re leaving behind. To help with the decision-making process, it’s sometimes easier to ask, “What do I absolutely need?” or “Which is my favorite piece?” and then see how much room is left for anything else.

Get help: Because downsizing can be a painful process, both emotionally and physically, don’t be afraid to ask for help. It’s an opportunity to go down memory lane with friends and family. At the same time, you can give away possessions to your loved ones, including items you may have been planning to give them after your death. Passing them on now means you can tell the story behind the gift or reiterate your affection for the person—whether your childhood best friend, your granddaughter or your favorite walking companion.

Make sure you shred any documents with personal information, account identification and especially Social Security numbers. You can digitize (on your computer) documents and photos you want to keep but don’t have space for.

Professional help is available, too. Senior move managers specialize in helping older adults with both the emotional and practical dimensions of late-life transitions. Managers can arrange estate sales, locate and deliver items to storage facilities or coordinate donations to charities.

Source: Society of Certified Senior Advisors

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health

B R E A S T C A N C E R AWA R E N E S S

The Power of Pink

by Michael Batalo, MD

E

ach October, a sea of pink highlights the importance of breast cancer awareness. Whether it is friends or family wearing pink clothing, or our favorite sports teams donning pink jerseys and gear, the importance of recommended breast care and other ways to strive for improved health should be recognized.

Research shows that lifestyle and environmental factors can play a pivotal role in our risk for cancer.

Although most lifestyle factors influence the risk of breast cancer only to a minor extent, here are some tips to keep your breasts and your body healthy.

GATHER YOUR FAMILY HISTORY Ask your family if anyone has been diagnosed with breast cancer or any other cancers, and report this history to your primary provider. This remains one way to help identify if you are at a greater risk for developing breast cancer and helps your health care providers manage this risk appropriately.

MAINTAIN A HEALTHY WEIGHT Obesity can contribute to an increased breast cancer risk and other cancers in general.

Consult your primary care provider regarding the appropriate level of regular exercise activity you should maintain while discussing healthy diet tips that avoid unhealthy fats and include fruits and vegetable consumption.

BREAST CANCER MAMMOGRAM SCREENINGS The American Cancer Society recommends that women who are 40 years old or older undergo at least an annual mammogram screening test to try to detect breast cancer in earlier stages.

AVOID UNHEALTHY HABITS Avoid alcohol use and tobacco use to improve your health.

BREAST EXAMINATIONS For women in their 20s and 30s, routine clinical breast examination and discussion with their health care providers about self-breast exams are recommended by the American Cancer Society.

Breast health, and overall health in general, is a lifelong commitment. Different women will have different health care needs and issues. Decisions about your specific needs should be discussed by you and your primary health care practitioner.

Dr. Batalo is a medical oncologist with FirstHealth Outpatient Cancer Center, which provides services in conjunction with Pinehurst Medical Clinic. For more information on breast health and other health concerns, visit www.firsthealth.org or call 800-213-3284.

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OCTOBER 2015 |

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advice

PLANNING AHEAD

Understanding Medicare Advantage Plans

by Beth Donner, CRPC

M

edicare Advantage plans are also called Part C or Medicare Complete plans. At age 65 (or at a later age if you continue working and remain on a group health plan), you are eligible for Medicare.

When first eligible, you will need to make a decision whether to enroll in Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage plan.

If you choose to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan you need to understand this plan will act as a replacement for Medicare Part A (hospital insurance), Medicare Part B (medical/outpatient insurance), a MedSupp plan and probably a Part D (drug) plan; thus a Medicare Advantage plan can be a “complete” replacement for Original Medicare.

Medicare Advantage plans are sold and marketed by private insurance carriers and are primarily network plans that allow you to go to a specific list of doctors, hospitals or other health care providers. Since this model involves a network, you may need to obtain a referral from your primary care physician if you see other doctors or specialists. To be eligible for a Medicare Advantage plan, you must have already activated Part A and Part B of Original Medicare.

Medicare Advantage plans are required to cover all the services that Original Medicare covers, except for hospice. Hospice is palliative, end-of-life care, which is covered by Original Medicare whether you are on Medicare Advantage or not. You will have coverage for emergency care, even if provided by an out-of-network doctor or hospital; however, emergency care is not covered if you’re outside the United States.

There are 10 insurance companies offering Medicare Advantage policies in 2015 in North Carolina. The plan options and carriers vary by county; however, not all carriers and all plan designs are offered in all counties.

Many Medicare Advantage plans offer additional benefits that include coverage for dental care,

18

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eyeglasses, hearing coverage or wellness programs, which makes it essential to closely compare all features of any plan.

It’s vital to pay attention to designated enrollment periods as there are only two primary opportunities to enroll or make changes to your plan: 1. Initial Enrollment Period/IEP includes three months before, the month of, and three months after your 65th birthday.

2. Annual Election Period/AEP runs from October 15 through December 7 for 2015. This allows a person already enrolled on a Medicare Advantage plan to make any desired changes.

Allowed changes might include changing from a Medicare Advantage plan to a different Medicare Advantage plan or returning to Original Medicare.

A word of caution before returning to Original Medicare – if you decide to get a MedSupp plan to supplement gaps in Original Medicare, you may have to go through an underwriting process where health status is reviewed and due to pre-existing conditions and have to pay an increased premium, have your coverage delayed or even be declined. Don’t fall prey to this unintended consequence. You might consider outside assistance before attempting this significant change.

All changes that are made will become effective Jan. 1 of the following year.

Additional online resources include Medicare.gov and www.ncdoi.com/SHIIP/.

Donner is a Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor and can be reached at Beth@DiversifiedPlanning.com or 919-601-0501.

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Triangle Walk Oct. 3 | Lee County & Robeson County Oct. 17

Legal Family Housing Advocacy

Our Aging Life Care Professionals™ have the expertise you need to age successfully Call us today. We can help!

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AgingOutreachServices.com OCTOBER 2015 |

OutreachNC.com 19

advice

L AW R E V I E W

Blended Families Bring Estate Planning Challenges

by Jackie Bedard

D

ivorce and remarriage are common. Forty-two percent of American adults have a step-relationship of some sort, according to a recent article in The Huffington Post. Blended families bring an extra challenge to estate planning.

WILLS The ugliest family disputes that occur after someone passes away are not about money but possessions with sentimental value. Even the smallest item can have a significant emotional value, and squabbles over these belongings can cause rifts that are difficult to heal.

Clearly stating in a will which child or stepchild gets what, whether they are “yours, mine, or ours,” can eliminate disputes after you pass away. Identify who you want to inherit specific heirlooms, such as jewelry, furniture, photographs or other personal effects. Choose a specific person to handle social media accounts after they’re gone.

Make sure everyone understands those wishes upfront, and be sure to get those wishes in writing in a will. This document should be updated regularly to take major life changes into account, including anytime a child is born or adopted.

HEALTH CARE DIRECTIVES Who gets to make end-of-life decisions? If you don’t put your wishes in writing, your loved ones can be left with legal disputes and family fights at one of the most difficult times in their lives.

If you enter into a new marriage, make sure to talk about this issue. Children from a previous marriage may have very different ideas from your stepchildren about what should be done in the event of your incapacitation.

Without specifying those wishes in a living will or advanced health care directive, there can be costly legal battles and anguish for your loved ones.

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TRUSTS If you have children by a previous marriage, a trust can be a good way to protect their inheritance. It can also be used to help ensure any previous spouses or stepchildren who were part of that marriage are not inadvertently disinherited by the new relationship.

Without getting those wishes in writing, you could unintentionally leave your loved ones unprotected and without financial support.

PRENUPTIAL AGREEMENTS One other way you can ensure your wishes are made known within a blended family is by entering into a prenuptial agreement with the new spouse. While a prenup may not be necessary for a couple entering into a first marriage, for a second marriage or any more subsequent to that, there are all sorts of complex issues that may make such an agreement not only useful but necessary.

Before entering into a new marriage, discuss estate issues with the new intended spouse. A prenup ensures both parties enter into the relationship with a clear understanding. This can protect not only you but your loved ones as well.

Marriage should be a time for families to come together and rejoice. Blended families can be strong and supportive environments for everyone. However, a large part of that comes from everyone feeling they are taken care of when a loved one passes away.

Bedard, an elder law attorney with Carolina Family Estate Planning, can be reached at 919-443-3035.

OCTOBER 2015 |

OutreachNC.com 21

life

R E A D I N G F O R G E N E R AT I O N S

“Pretending to Dance” Book Review by Michelle Goetzl

I

n Diane Chamberlain’s 24th novel, “Pretending to Dance,” we learn rather quickly that not dealing with issues from your past can wreak havoc on your future.

Molly Arnette has spent most of her life telling secrets to cover up a past that she would like to forget. When she and her husband are trying to adopt a child and must meet with a social worker for their home study, the lies that Molly has created about her past threaten to unravel her dreams for a child as well as her marriage as a whole.

Most of this book is written in flashback format, jumping between present day and the summer of 1990 when Molly was 14. That summer was the tipping point for young Molly. Not only did she go through a lot of teenage changes, but dynamics in her family were in a constant state of flux, for reasons unknown to her. It was her father’s death as the summer came to a close that sent her running from her beloved mountains of North Carolina and from her family.

Her father, Graham, has always been her rock and the two share a special father-daughter relationship. Graham is suffering from an advanced form of multiple sclerosis and is wheelchair bound. Graham is best known for his bestselling books on his unusual form of therapy known as “pretend therapy.” The concept behind his practice is that “if you pretend to be the person you want to be, gradually you become that person.”

There are a number of weighty topics in the book, but at its heart, it is a coming-of-age story for Molly. While the

secrets that she holds on to have to do with her family and the death of her father, most of the story focuses on the issues that she is dealing with at the time, and other details are like a fuzzy background to her that she doesn’t fully process.

As with all of Chamberlain’s books, there is a secret somewhere in the midst. It is alluded to in the prologue when Molly tells the reader that her mother murdered her father. As the reader, you know that there is much more to the story than that, but where Chamberlain excels is by slowly peeling the onion to reveal her secrets.

When Molly runs away and starts to tell lies, she thinks she has cut off the past. Only by going back to North Carolina to confront her own history can she move forward with the rest of her life.

An engaging story with a strong cast of characters, “Pretending to Dance” makes you think about the difficult decisions that we are faced with and the consequences that come with them.

Goetzl writes an online blog—”Books My Kids Read.” She loves books and sharing that love of reading with children. She can be reached at booksmykidsread@gmail.com.

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LITERARY CIRCLE

“Soon” and “The Invention of Wings”

life

Book Reviews by Cos Barnes

Y

ears ago when my children were very young, I could not wait to put all three to bed at 7 o’clock, and read my new McCall’s magazine.

I loved all the short stories.

Unfortunately, I have not read short stories since then, until I was sent Pam Durban’s latest book, titled “Soon.”

Composed of 11 stories, with one featuring three vignettes, the themes vary from rebellion to a woman rowing all night for her freedom. Other topics covered are a woman’s attempt to protect her husband as she shared all his memories of war and death, the adoptive child who still waits for his birth mother to come and claim him, and the death of a mother.

Each story is crafted with a theme of love, loss and the healing power of storytelling. They emphasize that we must lose, find and hold on to one another. The title story was selected by John Updike for “The Best American Short Stories of the Century.” Among her many accomplishments, Durban is the Doris Betts Distinguished Professor of Creative Writing at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Sue Monk Kidd’s third novel, “The Invention of Wings,” is jam-packed with action, history, plot and characters, two of whom are Sarah Grimke, a mistress, and Hetty, also called

Handful, a slave. Presented to Sarah on her 11th birthday and resented by her because of her views on slavery, Sarah nevertheless develops a true bond with Handful, even teaching her to read, which was a no-no back then. It causes Sarah to be banished from her father’s library and destroys her hopes of becoming a lawyer.

Based on two historical figures, Sarah and her sister, Angelina, who were leaders in the early 19th century social movements of abolitionism and women’s rights, this book is powerful.

There is a large cast of characters, including the two men who vied for Sarah’s hand and the numerous slaves at the Charleston planation. My favorite character was Handful’s mother, an expert seamstress with thread and needle who teaches Handful to do the same. Despite all their hardships, the mother and daughter tell their story in handmade quilts.

Kidd was a visiting writer-in-residence at Weymouth Center for the Arts and Humanities in Southern Pines and the author of “The Secret Life of Bees” and “The Mermaid Chair.”

Barnes has been writing for OutreachNC since the first publication in 2010 and currently participates in three book clubs.

She can be reached at info@outreachnc.com.

OCTOBER 2015 |

OutreachNC.com 23

health

B R A I N H E A LT H

How Technology Impacts Your Memory

by MaryBeth Bailar, Psy.D.

M

emory loss is a common concern in later life, but increasing numbers of adults in their 30s, 40s, and 50s are also reporting significant problems with forgetfulness.

It turns out that our nearly constant use of technology—and the way we interact with it—may be responsible for growing memory concerns in people of all ages. New research is showing that spending time on our smartphones and computers changes the way our brains work and frequently hinders our ability to remember new information. Two main reasons for this are reviewed here.

In the tech age, distraction is everywhere. Attention is the key to forming new memories. When we are distracted, we are not laying the foundation for new memories. This is also the case when we are multitasking, because our attention is divided. Numerous studies demonstrate the negative effects of multitasking.

Technology not only makes it easier to multitask (thereby leading to more distraction), but additionally, even when we are doing only one task online, distraction is everywhere.

Nicholas Carr, author of “The Shallows: What the Internet is Doing to our Brains,” defines the Internet as “an interruption system.” When we view information online, there are a million possible distractions.

For example, when reading written information on the Internet, there are usually hyperlinks throughout the text—and even if we are not clicking on them, our brain is distracted by them in that it has to go through a decision process each time it sees one to determine whether or not to click.

One study showed that comprehension declines as the number of links increases, regardless of whether or not the links are clicked. Additionally, advertisements often flash on the side of the screen, and many marketing companies’ success is measured by how much they can distract you from what you are doing and get you to their client’s website. Constant online access leads to

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information overload.

Another issue that leads to poor retention of information is cognitive overload. The brain’s process of learning and retaining information starts with a key function called working memory. Working memory is the brain’s ability to hold new information “online” and do something with it.

For example, when you are carrying out a mental arithmetic problem, you are holding the various figures in your mind while carrying out mathematical operations. Working memory can hold only a relatively small amount of information at a time. When the amount of information flowing into our working memory exceeds our mind’s capacity to process and store it, not only are we unable to retain the information, but we also do not have a chance to draw connections with other memories or translate the new material into conceptual knowledge.

We have a ton of information at our fingertips, and even bombarding us to some extent, when we are on the Internet. There are benefits to this; however, we must also realize the risk of cognitive overload, wherein a bottleneck of sorts is formed such that new information cannot “stick” and be integrated into our knowledge base.

health

Tips for Enhancing Memory in the Tech Age

1. Become more conscious of how much time you are spending online. Determine if that time is

productive versus distracting. Setting a limit your Internet “surfing� time can be helpful.

2. Take time to reflect. Once you have watched or read something of interest, take a minute away from the

screen to reflect on it. This gives your working memory time to catch up and process the information into long-term memory, while also weaving the facts and information into more complex ideas that give richness to our thought.

3. Avoid multi-tasking. Do not attempt to complete two tasks at once. Any time you do this, you are dividing

your attention, and therefore reducing your ability to retain information. Avoid using your smartphone while you are involved in other activities, such as using social media while watching television, or checking email while in a meeting.

Dr. Bailar, a clinical neuropsychologist at Pinehurst Neuropsychology, can be reached at 910-420-8041 or www.pinehurstneuropsychology.com.

OCTOBER 2015 |

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life

G E N T L E M A N ’ S N OT E B O O K

Taste the Unusual at the State Fair

by Ray Linville

I

t’s time to go to the North Carolina State Fair. Many families look forward each fall to visiting the fairgrounds in Raleigh and returning home with unbelievable tales about what they ate.

The fair, which runs from Oct. 15-25 this year, promises to set attendance records, particularly on Senior Citizen Day, which is Oct. 20.

The biggest entertainment is walking down the midway and seeing what kinds of food are being sold. Rather than riding a roller coaster, some fairgoers get their thrills by sending their stomachs on diabolical journeys.

Although you can bring food and drink with you (in small bags, as advised by fair officials), who wants to take anything when you can enjoy everything? State fairs are known for pushing the “food envelope” and tempt visitors with new and unusual concoctions each year.

The N.C. State Fair doesn’t take a back seat to anyone for challenging the adventurous eaters.

Remember when our fair was once known more for offering candy apples, corn dogs and funnel cakes than it is today for new deep-fried foods?

Last year the “Twinx”—a Twinkie stuffed with a Twix, wrapped in bacon, dipped in batter and deep fried—was a new item. The state government even has a “deep fried blog” about the “tastiest” food at the fair.

A perennial favorite has been the Krispy Kreme Bacon Cheeseburger, which is a hamburger patty,

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topped with cheese and bacon, and sandwiched between two doughnuts.

Depending on the vendor, you might also be able to add a fried egg. Although this state is the birthplace of Krispy Kreme, is this “sandwich” something you would order?

Across the country, state fairs are no longer content with serving fried alligator and roasted pig tails. New foods and drinks this year include smoky bacon margarita at the Texas fair, hot beef sundae in Iowa and deep-fried Twinkies in California. Even those temptations may seem pale compared to the ultimate bacon brisket bomb, which won the new fair food contest in Iowa.

The 11-day Iowa State Fair also has 75 foods on a stick. The 18 presidential candidates who visited know that Iowa is as famous as North Carolina for its pork, and most wisely chose a pork chop on a stick.

Minnesota may have the most new fair foods this year, with 50. Some names even seem interesting, such as mac and cheese cupcake, deep-fried baby back ribs, pickles-and-barbecue sauce ice cream and egg-topped kimchi-curry poutine.

If you want something unusual, find it this year at the N.C. State Fair. You’ll be amazed.

Retired from the N.C. Community College System, Linville is a contributing writer for the N.C. Folklife Institute and conducts programs on Southern food, history and culture. He can be reached at linville910@gmail.com.

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OutreachNC.com 27

Volunteering

GIVES BACK Twofold

by Caroline Curran | Photography by Diana Matthews

M

ahatma Gandhi is credited with saying, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”

But is there more to volunteering than finding oneself? Can the act of volunteering actually improve one’s physical and mental health and overall well-being?

Recent studies support this notion, and a group of Triangle-area volunteers believe it is absolutely the case. Holly Cook, volunteer coordinator at the Raleigh Rescue Mission, oversees a robust group of volunteers—between 105 and 115 individual volunteers monthly and another 400-500 volunteers from different groups monthly—at the mission.

“The numbers spike at the holidays, when we have lots of short-term holiday-related programs,” Cook says. As such, Cook relies on a those volunteers to serve the increasing needs of those the rescue mission serves in a variety of capacities.

Raleigh Rescue Mission has served more than 750,000 homeless and hurting people since opening in 1961. Today, the mission serves “men and women battling life-controlling issues, women and children needing emergency shelter, those who thirst in the summer and shiver in the winter, those who never had a chance and those who need a second chance,” according to its mission statement.

Barbara Nye of Raleigh has been volunteering at the nonprofit Raleigh Rescue Mission for five years. She chose to volunteer at the rescue mission because she knew someone who was already volunteering there, and she felt her contribution to the organization could “help in some small way.”

“I visited the mission and was so impressed with their program,” Nye says. “For me, the most rewarding part is being involved with others and just hoping in some small way that I can help to make a difference in someone’s life.”

And for Nye, her volunteer work at the mission “gives purpose to life.”

“After retiring I found extra time on my hands,” she says. “Working at the mission has given me something to look forward to. I have made several very good friends by working there. I think that volunteering has many health benefits. It promotes a feeling of well-being.”

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“You don’t know what you’re missing until you try volunteering.”

—Terry Grimes

Like many volunteers, Nye has one particular memory that stands out as one having filled her with joy.

“As a part of my duties, I used to take a lot of clients from the mission to Rocky Mount to a dentist,” Nye says. “I took one woman who, every time she spoke she would cover her mouth. They replaced all her teeth with new teeth. And she smiled at me, but she started crying and said, ‘This is the first time I’ve been able to smile in years.’ And I just thought that was so amazing. It made me feel really good to be able to share that big event.”

Terry Grimes of Cary (pictured above), who also volunteers at the Raleigh Rescue Mission, agrees.

Grimes has been volunteering since 2007, when she

began volunteering at the USO of North Carolina.

At the Raleigh Rescue Mission, Grimes runs the preschool, which, for the retired teacher, is a perfect fit.

“I used to be a teacher a long, long time ago. When I stopped working I knew I wanted to volunteer with kids,” she says.

For Grimes, the best part of volunteering is “just the general giving back and remaining useful.”

“My family has a long history of volunteering. My grandmother volunteered up until she passed away.

My mother and father both volunteered in their community. It’s kind of a family tradition.”

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Grimes firmly believes there is a connection between overall health and volunteering.

“I think you don’t know what you’re missing until you try volunteering,” she says. “I don’t think you realize the personal reward of volunteering until you do it.

Once I stopped working and I took on these community volunteer jobs, I didn’t realize how much I would enjoy it and how personally rewarding it would be. And perhaps I also get to brighten the day of a child or a service member.”

Baby Boomers Volunteerism Report

According to a report published by the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS), several studies examined volunteer habits from individuals in the following age groups—55-64, 65-74, 75-84 and 85 and older. One study included in the CNCS study “looked for predictors of mortality five years later based on the frequency of volunteering.”

The study concluded individuals who volunteered with two or more organizations experienced a 44 percent lower mortality rate over a five-year period compared with those people in the same age demographic who did not volunteer. The study adjusted for other factors, including age, health habits and social support.

“Indeed, volunteering was found to contribute more to lower mortality rates than high religious involvement or perceived social support,” the report states.

Another study included in the CNCS report called the correlation between volunteerism and increased health and wellness “a self-reinforcing cycle.”

“While it is undoubtedly the case that better health leads

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to continued volunteering, these studies demonstrate that volunteering also leads to improved physical and mental health,” the report states.

The same report examined two additional studies— “Keeping Baby Boomers Volunteering: A Research Brief on Volunteer Retention and Turnover” and “Volunteer Growth in America: A Review of Trends Since 1974.”

Those studies indicated baby boomers were volunteering at a higher rate than earlier generations.

“At the same time, we see that the more hours per year that boomers spend on volunteer activities, the more likely they are to continue to volunteer from year to year.”

The report describes baby boomers as “a highly talented and motivated group who can help solve some of our most challenging social problems, including helping seniors live independently.”

What’s more, according to the report, “the findings regarding the health benefits of volunteering indicate that attention should also be given to the strong possibility that the very act of volunteering may allow individuals to maintain their independence as they grow older and will likely face increased health challenges.”

Marieke Van Willigen, with the Department of Sociology at East Carolina University in Greenville, conducted a study that compared health benefits of volunteerism for those 60 and older with health benefits of volunteerism in general.

“I found that older volunteers experienced greater increases in life satisfaction over time as a result of their volunteer hours than did younger adult volunteers, especially at high rates of volunteering,” Willigen says in the study. “Older adults experienced greater positive changes in their perceived health than did younger adult volunteers.

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Ways to Fall into Volunteering

G

by Rachel Stewart

iving back not only benefits the community you live in, it helps you stay healthy. Some studies have found that people who volunteer are less likely to experience symptoms linked to heart disease and depression. Regular volunteering strengthens your social ties and allows you to stay active with those you love. Not sure how to get started? There are plenty of ways to make a difference that can fit your lifestyle and budget, including:

1

Raise money for a cause close to your heart. Charities need funding throughout the year, not just during the holidays. Start a donation jar for your loose change or challenge your friends to give a set amount by a certain deadline. A little competition among friends makes giving back even more fun.

2

Pencil in one Saturday a week to help out. Serving meals at the local soup kitchen and volunteering at a museum or attraction are great ways to give back on the weekend and interact with others. Other volunteer tasks at local nonprofits might include clerical work, such as stuffing envelopes, answering phones or cleaning up.

3

Offer your talents to a good cause. Sharing your hobbies with others is a great way to give back. Examples can include hosting an arts and craft day at the library, donating art to a local hospital or making your favorite cake recipe for a bake sale.

4

Foster a dog or cat. So many animals need a forever home—and yours could be a step toward that goal. Some animals need a patient owner who’ll train them, while others just need a companion or cuddles. Visit your local pound or animal shelter and ask how you can help a furry friend. Can’t take on a pet full-time? Offer to help out at the shelter instead.

5

Walk it out for charity. Charity races and walks have become popular in the last decade. Find a cause you care about and start training on your own or with a few friends. Come race day, you’ll have raised money and feel great! Consider scheduling charity walks throughout the year to keep you physically active.

6

Donate items to Goodwill, Salvation Army or a church rummage sale. Every six months or so, start a bin with items that you don’t use anymore. This can include clothes, books and other goods. Donating these items allows others to raise money—and your house will be a little tidier at the end of the day.

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For information on how we can care for you or a loved one, please call (910) 715-6000, toll-free (866) 861-7485 or visit www.firsthealth.org/hospice.

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OutreachNC.com 31

Another Season of

by Flo Johnston | Photography by Rebecca Solveig Zver

T

he art of storytelling is alive and well in Laurinburg. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Storytelling Festival of Carolina, Oct. 16-18.

An impressive lineup of recognized tellers from across the country are on the festival program to share their wit and wisdom in stories that are often humorous and informative but always entertaining and imaginative.

Teller Martha Reed Johnson of neighboring South Carolina, whose parents say she started telling tales from the time she could talk, is one of five who will highlight the festival. She is known for her stories from the heart and has been described as “a master at finding, creating and telling amazing stories from ordinary moments.” Reed was a recipient of a World Storytelling Award last year.

Other tellers are Bil Lepp of West Virginia, Bill Harley of Massachusetts, Sheila Arnold Jones of Virginia and Diane Ferlatte of California.

The three-day festival, Friday through Sunday, will be held at the John Blue Complex (pictured at left), a historic site located at 13040 X-Way Road, just west of town.

Convenient parking is available and closer handicapped parking will include shuttle service via golf cart.

The local Storytelling Arts Center of the Southeast (SACS), with its office located on Laurinburg’s Main Street, is the festival sponsor.

During the day on Friday, Oct. 16, students from around the region will be welcomed for a day of telling geared specifically for kids.

Friday evening, an “Olio,” an event that allows the public to hear snippets of the tellers’ tales and styles, is set for the Main Street stage.

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Saturday morning, Oct. 17, begins a full day of telling back under the tent at the Blue Complex and is followed in the evening by a gala, again at SACS on Main Street, with food and drink and more stories in an intimate setting. On Sunday, Oct. 18, festival telling will continue with wrap-up set for late afternoon.

Laurinburg’s SACS grew out of community concern for economic development in a rural county where farming had been the mainstay in the past and for keeping downtown as a vibrant and growing area.

Last year, the North Carolina Arts Council designated SACS as the Arts Council for Scotland County. Its programming during the year includes such events as classes, workshops, a youth art camp, adult art classes, performance music and a Community Read.

Erin Rembert, executive director of SACS, says this designation has helped the center move forward stronger and more dedicated to bringing the arts and educational opportunities to the community while keeping its successful heritage programs at the forefront of programming.

As in the past, festival attendance is expected to be in the hundreds, the director said.

“Our attendance comes from around the region and state and we have had attendees from as far away as New York, New Jersey and Washington,” Rembert says. “Part of the draw, besides the beautiful setting, is that headlining tellers have all been featured on the national stage at the National Storytelling Festival in Jonesborough, Tenn. Each of these popular tellers brings their own following and creates new fans wherever they tell.”

For more information, call 910-277-3599 or visit www.storyartscenter.org.

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OutreachNC.com 33

12 Autumn

Superf

ds

to Fall For

Beyond Pumpkins and Sweet Potatoes

by Carrie Frye | Photography by Diana Matthews

A

s the fall foliage colors the landscape and cooler temperatures replace the summer heat, many a field brings another season of crops into ripeness. Some of these vegetables and fruits fall into the category of superfoods for their high nutritional values of vitamins, fiber or antioxidants—molecules that protect cells from harmful free radicals often associated with cancer. Consuming locally grown fruits and vegetables when possible can maximize their already high nutrient levels.

“Fruits and vegetables picked at peak ripeness are healthier because the nutrients are less likely to be lost during transport or genetically modified to have a longer shelf life,” explains from Melissa Herman, RD, CDE, patient navigator at FirstHealth Bariatric Center and program coordinator for FirstHealth Diabetes and Nutrition Education Center. “Eating fresh fruits and vegetables in season provides higher quality flavor, color and freshness as well as supporting local farmers and the community.”

Among the most well known fall superfoods are pumpkins and sweet potatoes, which certainly fit the bill and are readily available at your local farmers market.

“Sweet potatoes are inexpensive, locally grown and packed full of nutrition,” Herman says. “They are an excellent source of vitamin A. A medium sweet potato has more than four times the recommended daily amount of vitamin A, which plays a vital role in vision, bone development and immune function.

Sweet potatoes also contain vitamin C, which helps fight infections, heal wounds and absorb iron.”

Aside from the vitamins, sweet potatoes are rich in fiber.

“Fiber is a nutrient that bulks up food, keeping you full longer, keeps your bowels healthy and lowers cholesterol,” Herman adds. “A medium sweet potato baked in its skin has 4 grams of fiber, more than a serving of oatmeal. Sweet potatoes are also high in antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and your risk of chronic diseases, such as cancer and cardiovascular disease.”

More than just a jack-o-lantern or pie ingredient, pumpkin and pumpkin seeds, too, are recognized for their health benefits.

“Pumpkin seeds pack about 1.7 grams of dietary fiber per ounce, while mashed pumpkin has only 50 calories per cup and 3 grams of fiber,” Herman says. “Pumpkin can also boost vision, because one cup of cubed pumpkin contains almost twice the recommended daily intake of vitamin A.” Aside from sweet potatoes and pumpkins, there are an abundance of fall fruit and vegetable superfoods—some you might not expect or have tasted before—to consider adding to the shopping list. Each could find its way into a plethora of fall recipes to expand your culinary palate with bonus nutritional benefits. Consider bringing these fall superfoods to your table this season:

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 34

1

Apples: From Honeycrisp to Granny Smith and

the numerous other varieties of apples, a mediumsized apple contains 1 cup of the 2 cups of fruit in the daily recommendation of fruit and nearly 20 percent of the daily recommendation of fiber, according to the USDA.

2

Beets: Despite their sweet flavor, beets are nutrient-rich and low in calories. According to the American Institute for Cancer Research, beets are an excellent source of phytonutrients, which provide anti-cancer benefits in every bite. Enjoy beets raw— peeled and grated in a salad—or cooked, and boost your immune system as well as gaining vitamin C and potassium.

3

Butterhead Lettuce: A cool-weather harvested lettuce, butterhead includes the bibb and Boston varieties. It is a good source of dietary fiber, iron and vitamins A and K, benefiting the eyes, skin, bones, teeth and muscles. Low in fat, calories and sodium, butterhead lettuce’s tender leaves are lined with nutrients and can be easily added to salads, sandwiches and wraps.

4

Dates: Although sweet, dates pack a nutrient-rich punch with vitamins A, B and C as well as fiber, potassium, fiber, iron, manganese and magnesium. Dates are cholesterol-free, heart-healthy and the dietary fiber promotes healthy digestion.

5

Mushrooms: With more than 10 edible varieties

to choose from, white to portabella and shiitake, the mushroom is the only fruit or vegetable that are a natural source of vitamin D. According to the USDA, mushrooms are also high in selenium, riboflavin, niacin, potassium and pantothenic acid. Mushrooms are fatfree, low in calories and promote good cardiovascular health while boosting the immune system.

6

Parsnips: This root

vegetable is a close relative of the carrot and can lower the risk of developing diabetes, reduce cholesterol, improve digestive health, strengthen the immune system and lower blood pressure. High in vitamins C, K, E and B-complex, including folic acid, a half-cup of cooked parsnips yields 3 grams of dietary fiber, benefiting digestive health.

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7

Pears: This low-calorie fruit has a unique shape,

thin skin and what some consider a mild apple taste.

“Both pears and apples are associated with a decreased risk of several common chronic diseases that begin with chronic inflammation and excessive oxidative stress, including heart disease and type 2 diabetes,” says Ashley Carpenter, a registered dietitian at FirstHealth Fitness.

“The phytonutrients and fiber in these fruits help decrease synthesis of cholesterol and improve insulin sensitivity for regulating cholesterol and blood sugar levels.”

8

Persimmons: Ranging from deep yellow to orange in color when fully ripe, persimmons are high in dietary fiber and phytonutrients. Nicknamed “nature’s candy,” persimmons can be eaten fresh, dried or cooked and are known to benefit eye health, bone health, digestion, cognitive function, metabolism and the immune system. Persimmons can also help lower cholesterol, blood pressure and the risk of cancer.

9

Pomegranate:

The hundreds of edible arils inside the pomegranate are what is eaten or processed into juice. High in fiber, protein, potassium and vitamins C and K, pomegranates have punicalagins—powerful antioxidants—that lower the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, cancer and dementia.

The pomegranate’s anti-inflammatory effects can be beneficial for digestive health.

10

Rutabaga: A cross between a turnip and cabbage, rutabaga offers vitamin C and zinc.

Eat raw with a healthy hummus dip, or boil and mash rutabagas as a substitute for potatoes as a side dish.

“Cruciferous vegetables such as rutabaga, contain glucosinolates, which are important phytonutrients for our health,” Carpenter says. “Glucosinolates are the chemical starting points for a variety of cancerprotective substances.”

“They also are a good source of fiber,” Herman adds.

11

Swiss Chard: Another source of phytonutrients and antioxidants, Swiss chard’s leafy greens provide high levels of vitamins A and K. Consuming Swiss chard can help regulate blood sugar levels, detoxify the body and improve cardiovascular, digestive and bone health.

12

Winter Squash: Acorn, butternut and spaghetti are

the most common varieties of winter squash spilling over with vitamins B, C and K, potassium and a helping of dietary fiber, benefiting the eyes, skin, bones, blood pressure and digestion.

“Winter squash are rich sources of plant-based antiinflammatory nutrients such as omega 3s and beta carotene, which are important for a strong immune system to help protect against colds and flu,” Carpenter says.

Herman suggests these six tips to expand your culinary palette and add more superfoods to your diet in every season: • Keep trying a new food repeatedly to learn to like it.

• Start by adding the new food to other prepared recipes in small quantities. Add vegetables to your omelet, top some on your pizza or mix into a smoothie.

• Learn how to purchase and prepare the new foods properly. Seek out recipes that sound appealing and then help prepare the new dish.

• Pay attention to taste and texture. If you don’t like strong flavors, especially with vegetables, steer more toward less pungent vegetables. If you don’t like the texture, try preparing the food in a different way.

• Consider all the health benefits.

• Choose local—locally grown food tastes and looks better!

“Look for a recipe with a familiar cooking method, only a handful of ingredients and flavors you already like,” Carpenter adds. “If you are familiar with roasting and enjoy flavors such as maple syrup and cinnamon, try a roasted acorn squash recipe with these ingredients. If you enjoy mashed potatoes, consider trying a recipe for mashed un-potatoes using turnips, parsnips and cauliflower.”

Did You Know?

FirstHealth Fitness hosts monthly cooking demonstrations. Fall produce is the focus of the “Harvest Meals” cooking demo on Tuesday, Nov. 17, at 6 p.m. Call 910-715-1800 to register by Nov. 13.

OCTOBER 2015 |

OutreachNC.com 37

life

COOKING SIMPLE

Grilled Persimmon Salad

by Rhett Morris Photography by Diana Matthews

Ingredients 2 ripe persimmons 4 slices mozzarella Âź cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped 2 tablespoons pomegranate seeds 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon aged balsamic vinegar salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Slice persimmons, and lightly brush them with olive oil. Grill on high heat until grill marks appear. Arrange on plate and top with mozzarella, pecans, olive oil, balsamic vinegar and finish with salt and pepper.

Morris, owner of Rhett’s Restaurant, Personal Chef & Catering, is an awardwinning chef, specializing in Southern gourmet fare with fresh ingredients. He can be reached at 910-695-3663 or rhett@rhettsrpcc.com.

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OutreachNC.com | OCTOBER 2015

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OutreachNC.com | OCTOBER 2015

Carolina Conversations

with No. 1 New York Times best-selling novelist

Nicholas Sparks

N

by Carrie Frye | Photography by Nina Subin

icholas Sparks’ novels—“The Notebook,” “Message in a Bottle,” “A Walk to Remember” and “Nights in Rodanthe,” to name a few—have all been New York Times bestsellers. His books have sold more than 100 million copies and been translated into more than 50 languages. “See Me” is the 18th novel for the North Carolina-based author, who makes his home in New Bern.

Sparks’ passion for writing also led to the formation of a Nicholas Sparks Productions in 2012. The 11th film based upon his novel “The Choice” arrives in theaters in February 2016.

A graduate of the University of Notre Dame, where he still holds a track and field record, Sparks had a new running track installed and coached track and field athletes at a local high school in New Bern for four years.

His philanthropic efforts also led to co-founding The Epiphany School of Global Studies, a college-preparatory school in New Bern, as well as a nonprofit foundation, where 100 percent of donations are designated for its educational programs.

Readying for his latest worldwide book tour, Sparks has three stops set for his home state: New Bern, Chapel Hill and Charlotte.

ONC: Can you tell us about “See Me,” and how you came to choose Wilmington for its setting?

NS: “See Me,” in some ways, is similar to “The Guardian” and “Safe Haven,” in that the novel evolves from a simple love story to a story with thrilleresque elements. Unlike the previous novels, however, “See Me” has more twists and turns and part of the fun of the novel is in trying to figure out what’s happening, and who the antagonist actually is.

As far as choosing Wilmington as the setting, I wanted a moderately sized coastal city, one with a thriving historic district, a university, varying neighborhoods, and a city with much to offer in the way of restaurants, gyms, and things to do.

Was there real-life inspiration for the characters of Colin and Maria?

Characters in my novels—including Colin and Maria—are created and developed as the story itself unfolds, until they become their own unique people, with their own voice, backstory, thought processes and beliefs. Both Colin and Maria have bits of me in them; they also have bits and pieces of other people I’ve met over the years. What was most fun about these characters was that they were very different— perhaps even more flawed—than characters in previous novels.

CONTINUED PAGE 42

OCTOBER 2015 |

OutreachNC.com 41

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 41

“See Me” makes its debut in bookstores on Tuesday, Oct. 13. Book tour information is available at www.nicholassparks.com.

Nicholas Sparks has three North Carolina events scheduled: Oct. 13: Signing NEW BERN 8 a.m.

Books-A-Million 3005 Claredon Boulevard New Bern, NC 28562 Oct. 13: In-Conversation Event CHAPEL HILL 7 p.m.

Flyleaf Books @ The Carolina Club at UNC 150 Stadium Dr. Chapel Hill, NC 27514 Oct. 14: Signing CHARLOTTE 7 p.m.

Barnes & Noble—The Arboretum 3327 Pineville-Matthews Road Charlotte, NC 28226 42

OutreachNC.com | OCTOBER 2015

Choosing North Carolina locales has become a signature for your novels. How did that develop, and do you plan to continue setting books here?

Every novel I’ve written has been unique in structure, voice, point-­of-view, length, themes, and the ending of the novel – whether tragic, bittersweet or happy – is always in doubt until the final pages. There is no formula, in other words; with each and every novel, it’s as though I have to reinvent the wheel.

For that reason, I’ve always elected to have a few unchanging elements to my novels—a North Carolina setting, interesting and unique characters, and a love story element—because I want readers to have at least the smallest idea of what to expect when they pick up my novels. In other words, yes. My novels will always be set in North Carolina.

What do your readers and their loyalty mean to you as a writer? Any moments you can share from signings?

I appreciate my readers; I’m humbled by my readers; I feel more gratitude for them than they can possibly imagine.

That’s the primary reason I continue to tour. I want to thank them for the support and loyalty over the years. As for memorable moments … there’ve been many. I’ve seen marriage proposals, four generations in a single family getting their books signed, people who feel the need to share something meaningful in their own lives. I suppose the most humorous moment I’ve had came at a signing while I was in Dubai. Four shy and giggly teenage girls, in traditional Muslim garments approached the table and the first one looked directly at me and said: “You know … In Dubai, you can have four wives.” It made me laugh, if only because it was something I had never heard before.

Readers were able to vote for the cover of “See Me” this time. Are you involved on cover choices, and did you agree with the fan choice with the roses on the beach?

I’ve been involved with cover choices from the beginning, as has my agent. I think most authors are.

Covers are incredibly important; ideally, they are recognizable to fans at a glance while enticing to new readers as well. And yes – I agreed with the fan choice for the cover of “See Me.” To me, it’s a fabulous cover.

Do you find it harder now to come up with storylines, and what inspires you to keep writing?

There’s always a challenge to conceiving a unique, compelling and original story line; after eighteen novels, it’s even more difficult. The last thing I want to do is to write a novel that doesn’t surprise and delight the reader, and I suppose that desire more than anything, is what inspires me to keep doing what I do. I’m wired to set goals and then to try to reach them.

With the formation of your production company, can you elaborate on any upcoming projects?

The only thing I know for sure is that the film adaptation of “The Choice” will be coming out in February. There are a number of television projects in the works, but until any of them are on the air, there’s not much I can say about them.

Turning 50 this year, do you have goals for the second 50 personally or professionally in mind?

I’ve not thought in terms of “the next 50 years.” If I could be so lucky! As a general rule, I’ve always tried my best to maintain balance in my life on both the personal and professional levels. And it’s always hard to do. If there’s one goal, I suppose, it would be to continue that.

Do you still make time to run, and what do you most enjoy about the sport and staying fit?

ways. For the most part, I’ve simply tried to concentrate on writing the best novel I could, one after the next. As for surprises, I think what might surprise people is how little I reflect on what I’ve done in the past. Unless asked directly in interviews, I’m usually thinking about what I have to do on a given day or in the coming weeks. As for rewarding, the most wonderful aspect of being an author is that it allowed me to work at home, which meant I could watch my kids grow up.

How do you balance family life and fatherhood with writing and travelling?

Balance is always hard to maintain, and impossible unless one makes balance a goal in and of itself. As to the how: I’m sure it’s the same for me as it is for everyone else: Sometimes, career takes priority; other times, the family does. Still other times, friendships or personal time takes priority. And the cycle starts all over again.

With five children, what’s the most rewarding part of being a dad, and do you think any of your kids may share your passion for writing?

I suppose that what’s most rewarding for me is watching how each child, over the years, becomes who he or she is meant to be. It’s been wonderful to see ways in which my kids differ from each other, and in which ways they’re the same. As to whether any will develop a passion for writing, I honestly have no idea.

What books are you reading now?

On my bed-stand is “Brain Maker,” by Dr. David Perlmutter. I finished “Dark Places” by Gillian Flynn yesterday; before that, I enjoyed “The Wright Brothers”

by David McCullough.

With your philanthropy through the foundation, The Epiphany School, scholarships and coaching, why is giving back important to you?

I still run, though not as much as I once did. I do, however, work out regularly. It’s something I’ve done for a long time. It lowers my stress, allows me to decompress, and as an additional reward, I’m still able to keep up with my kids. For the most part, anyway.

Education changed my life and it’s important to me to do what I can to create educational opportunities for others.

I guess it’s as simple as that. I don’t think about what I do in terms of legacy: I think about it in terms of children who are given the tools to succeed in life.

With your mother’s words sparking you to write your first novel, is there a part of your success that is the most surprising or rewarding?

Would you describe North Carolina as home, and if so, why? What is most appealing about it to you?

The success I’ve had was impossible to predict. I hoped for it—doesn’t everyone who writes a novel hope that it’s successful?—but only in somewhat vague and blurry

North Carolina is home for me. I think that’s the best way to put it. At the same time, why a place feels like home has a thousand different dimensions. Even for me, it’s hard to articulate.

OCTOBER 2015 |

OutreachNC.com 43

Decoding Depression’s Darkness

W

inston Churchill famously called depression a black dog, a term reaching back to the Victorian ages for dark moods. While it’s normal to feel down every once in a while, prolonged periods of sadness or feeling low could hurt your health.

The Tell-Tale Signs

Regular bouts of sadness are temporary in nature, lasting just moments or maybe hours. Depression, on the other hand, can linger for days, weeks—even months—and make it hard to carry out daily tasks at work or around the house. If you or a loved one experiences any of the following symptoms, it may be time to talk to your doctor.

by Rachel Stewart

Signs of depression include: • Changes in sleep schedule, such as sleeping too much or too little • Changes in appetite, such as overeating or picking at meals or skipping them altogether • Decreased enjoyment in activities, hobbies or work • Decreased libido or lack of intimacy • Feelings of worthlessness • Constantly feeling fatigued, anxious or irritable

In prolonged cases of depression, people may also experience suicidal thoughts. If you or a loved one has these types of feelings, seek medical attention immediately.

The Importance of Seeking Help

You may feel hesitant to talk to others about your feelings, but the longer you wait to seek treatment, the bigger impact it could have on not only your emotional but physical health. Depression can cause the body to overproduce stress hormones, leaving the immune system more susceptible to colds, viruses or infections during the cold winter months, even if you’ve gotten a seasonal flu vaccine or taken other preventive measures from getting sick.

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OutreachNC.com | OCTOBER 2015

Take it One Day at a Time

Even after you seek treatment for your symptoms, it’s vital you take care of yourself.

Nourish your body. Try eating small, balanced meals throughout the day to keep your energy up and keep you from eating too much later in the day. Pair complex carbohydrates with protein— such as whole-wheat crackers with peanut butter or cheese—to give you long-lasting energy. If you don’t feel like eating, try adding a mealreplacement shake in as a snack.

• Reflect. Making time for prayer or quiet meditation can help you center yourself or deal with negative feelings. Writing your feelings down can also help lift your spirits. Write down a few things you are thankful for each day to focus on the positive.

• Get a daily dose of endorphins. Gentle exercise naturally boosts the amount of endorphins the body produces. Schedule time for a brisk walk, a dance class, or popping in a yoga DVD to keep your body strong.

•

•

Surround yourself with people who understand. Having a support network can help

you get through the not-so-great days and celebrate the happy times. Join a local support group or find an online forum where you feel comfortable discussing how you’re feeling.

Shining a Light on Seasonal Affective Disorder

Autumn days grow shorter, meaning sunlight can be in limited supply. More darkness can lead many people to feel low on energy—also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Three million Americans deal with SAD annually, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Signs specifically linked to wintertime SAD include: • Craving carbohydrate-rich foods, such as pasta, bread or cake • Sleeping more or having a hard time getting out of bed • Feeling irritable or having trouble getting along with others • Gaining weight

A person’s symptoms typically ease up with the return of spring and clear sunny days. If you or a loved one is dealing with SAD, consider these four tips to feel more like yourself: sunlight is better 1than none, so grab the raysSome when you can, even if it’s Sneak in more sunlight.

a enjoying a cup of coffee on the porch or taking the pooch for a walk. If you can’t get outdoors, try moving closer to a window or door where you can soak up some mood-boosting rays while you read or watch television.

Give light therapy a try. Light boxes artificially mimic the sun’s natural rays. These special lights can give off anywhere from 2,500 to 10,000 lux.

Depending on the severity of your symptoms, your doctor may recommend using a light box for a half hour up to two hours. Light boxes are available at online and local retailers.

Consider medication. Need extra help? Some antidepressants can provide relief and gently elevate your mood. Talk to your physician about which drugs may help you through the winter months and the best way to adjust your prescription based on how you feel.

Talk it out. Cognitive behavior therapy allows you to express your feelings in a safe environment with a trained counselor. Your therapist can provide tailored strategies to help you cope with your feelings during this time of year. Talking to a trusted friend or family member can also help, so don’t be afraid to pick up the phone or schedule a lunch date to catch up.

2

3

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OCTOBER 2015 |

OutreachNC.com 45

Sail through the Medicare Annual Election Period with N.C. SHIIP

B

by Jonathan Scott | Photography by Diana Matthews

arbara Moore was devastated when her husband died. She didn’t know how she would be able to go on without her life’s partner.

But life, oblivious to her sorrow, went on, and Moore found herself faced with having to deal with dozens of issues that her husband had taken care of. One issue she wished would simply go away was her health insurance.

“I knew I had to take care of it somehow,” Moore says. “But every time I tried looking through the papers in my husband’s file, and the stacks of bills and the notifications from Medicare, I wanted to cry.”

Moore is not the first to be faced with navigating the often daunting sea of Medicare and related insurance issues.

Fortunately, there was help available. Back in 1986, the North Carolina Department of Insurance established the Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program, these days known by its acronym, SHIIP. SHIIP is a statewide education and outreach program whose purpose is to educate the public on senior heath insurance issues. In 2014, the N.C. SHIIP program counseled nearly 105,000 clients, saving them a combined $28 million. There are volunteer SHIIP counselors in all of North Carolina’s 100 counties. Best of all, the advice and counseling are offered free of charge.

One evening at dinner in the assisted living facility where she lived, Moore shared her frustration and desperation with some friends. One of them had heard about SHIIP. Within a few days, a local SHIIP counselor, Denise Winslow, made an appointment to meet with Moore in her apartment.

“I totally understood why she was confused,” Winslow says. “She had two insurance cards from different companies

46

OutreachNC.com | OCTOBER 2015

and was paying two premiums for overlapping coverage. And she had Medicare coverage on top of that.”

Moore was grateful for the help.

“When I saw how difficult it was even for a trained counselor to straighten out,” Moore says, “I didn’t feel quite so foolish. By the time she had it all worked out for me, I cried again. But they were tears of relief.”

As beneficial as the Medicare program is, it’s become so complicated that the major work SHIIP does in North Carolina is assisting people with their Medicare issues.

“When I turned 64, I started getting lots of advice about Medicare from lots of different people,” says Winslow, who has been a SHIIP counselor for the last six years. “The problem was, all the advice was different.”

Winslow decided to train as a volunteer SHIIP counselor, initially just to inform herself. Fortunately for those she has counseled, her natural compassion and easygoing nature make her an especially effective volunteer. Over the years, Winslow says she lost count of the people she helped.

Sometimes that help was significant.

“Many people who come for counseling are like Mrs. Moore,” Winslow says. “They are deeply grateful to have someone with a little bit of knowledge listen to them. Sometimes the simplest things, like helping people through the Annual Election Period, can have a big effect on a person’s household budget.”

The Annual Election Period, or AEP, occurs yearly Oct. 15-Dec. 7. The AEP is the time of the year when a person with a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan can enroll into a different plan for the upcoming year.

That, advises Winslow, is when it’s possible to save money.

CONTINUED PAGE 48

Contact Your Local N.C. SHIIP Coordinator CHATHAM COUNTY

Chatham County Council on Aging 365 Hwy 87 North | PITTSBORO | 919-542-4512

CUMBERLAND COUNTY

Coordinating Council on Older Adults 339 Devers Street | FAYETTEVILLE | 910-484-0111

HARNETT COUNTY

Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) 309 W. Cornelius Harnett Blvd. | LILLINGTON | 910-893-7579

HOKE COUNTY

Senior Services of Hoke County 423 East Central Ave. | RAEFORD | 910-875-8588

LEE COUNTY

The Enrichment Center 1615 S. Third St. | SANFORD | 919-776-0501

MONTGOMERY COUNTY

Troy/Montgomery Senior Center 200 Park Road | TROY | 910-572-6076

MOORE COUNTY

Moore County Senior Enrichment Center 8040 U.S. Hwy. 15-501 | WEST END | 910-215-0900

RICHMOND COUNTY

Richmond County Aging Services 225 South Lawrence St. | ROCKINGHAM | 910-410-1135

ROBESON COUNTY

Lumber River Council of Governments/Area Agency on Aging 30 CJ Walker Rd. | PEMBROKE | 910-618-5533

SCOTLAND COUNTY

Scotland County Parks and Recreation 1210 Turnpike Rd. | LAURINBURG | 910-277-2585

WAKE COUNTY

Cary Senior Center 120 Maury O’Dell Place | CARY | 919-469-4081 Anne Gordon Center 1901 Spring Forest Rd. | RALEIGH | 919-996-4730 East Wake Senior Center 323 Lake Dr. | WENDELL | 919- 365-4248 Five Points Center for Active Adults 2000 Noble Rd. | RALEIGH | 919-996-4120 Garner Senior Center 205 East Garner Rd. | GARNER | 919-661-6894 Northern Wake Senior Center 235 East Holding St. | WAKE FOREST | 919-554-4111 N.C. SHIIP Office 11 South Boylan Ave. | RALEIGH | 855-408-1212 OCTOBER 2015 | OutreachNC.com 47

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 46

“I had one client,” she says, “who was paying $100 a month for a prescription drug policy when she only took a $4 a month generic drug. She took the policy solely because the insurance company had a well-known name. I helped her choose a policy that made more sense.

She was in a situation where saving that much money made a big difference in her life.”

Anyone who already has a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan can just let their policy renew automatically during the AEP. But, according to Winslow, that’s not the wise thing to do. “Ninety-four percent of the time,” she cautions, “it will renew at a high rate. I remember a client who had been paying $20 a month for blood pressure medicine saw it skyrocket to $109 with automatic renewal.”

Those who are comfortable with using a computer and have an Internet connection can re-evaluate their Drug Plans during the Annual Election Period online. But often other factors, such as changes in a spouse’s work status, changes in residence, or the cancellation of other health insurance policies, can make the process involved. That’s when the help of SHIIP can be invaluable.

“SHIIP volunteers are there to help,” Winslow says. “Just pick up the phone, and call for an appointment. That’s the best advice I can give.”

[For privacy reasons, names were changed.]

Tips for Re-evaluating Your Medicare Prescription Drug Plan

•

Go to www.medicare.gov.

•

Click the green button that says “Find health & drug plans.”

•

For a general search, enter your ZIP code.

•

Answer the questions about your current Medicare coverage.

•

Enter the names(s) of the prescription drug(s) you now take and the dosage. (You may select brand name or generic.)

•

Select the local pharmacy of your choice within a driving range of your choice.

•

The website will return a selection of plans from which you can choose.

•

If you wish to change your coverage, you can enroll with the policy of your choice.

NOTE: Your new policy won’t be effective until Jan. 1, 2016.

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OutreachNC.com | OCTOBER 2015

9 Medicare Tips from a SHIIP Counselor

1

If you have a stand-alone drug policy you should re-evaluate your drug policy every year during the Annual Election Period.

2

There’s no need for you and your spouse to have the same insurance company policies. A policy that’s right for you may not be right for him or her. Spouses don’t have the same bodies.

3

Shop around for drugs at different drug stores just like you would for any product you buy.

4

Establish a relationship with a pharmacist and have the pharmacist re-evaluate your drugs to make suggestions you could take back to your doctor.

5

In deciding which Supplemental or Advantage health insurance policy to choose, first call your hospital and doctors to see which policies they take.

6

In dealing with HMO Advantage policies, know what your costs would be if you were to ever need care out of network.

7

Find out if your supplemental policy will accept a new medical procedure prior to your surgery.

8

If you ever served in the military, please check on the VA benefits you may be eligble to receive.

9

Talk to your friends and neighbors about their Medicare choices. Find out what they like and don’t like.

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OutreachNC.com 49

Sharing the Song in her Heart

by Thad Mumau | Photography by Diana Matthews

R

odgers and Hart wrote an old show tune that fits Miriam McNeill perfectly. “With a Song in My Heart” could be the catchphrase for every song she sings because each is a beautiful, powerful performance. And each one comes straight from her heart.

“I love to sing,” says the former school teacher from Raeford. “It makes me happy that people seem to enjoy my singing, and I am always honored when someone asks me. It is a privilege.”

McNeill’s solos are captivating, her voice dynamic and capable of reaching notes which are beyond belief. And she does it with such ease. To borrow a word normally reserved for athletes, she is a natural.

“I have never had a voice lesson,” she says. “I just walk up there and sing. I have been given a gift, and I feel I should use it.”

In and around Raeford and Fayetteville, where she has sung at countless weddings, funerals and Christmas Eve services, McNeill’s vocals are considered marvelous, even glorious. Folks never tire of hearing her sing “Amazing Grace,” “O Holy Night” and “The Lord’s Prayer.”

“And I never get tired of singing them. It doesn’t matter how many times I sing songs like those, I love doing them. I especially enjoy hymns.” Among her favorites are beloved old ones like “Great Is Thy Faithfulness,” “It Is Well with My Soul” and “Beneath the Cross of Jesus.”

McNeill grew up hearing such hymns every Sunday. Her dad, John Ropp, is a retired minister, having spent 20 years as the pastor at Raeford Presbyterian Church. He had been a radio broadcaster in Columbia, South Carolina, and was 30 years old when he felt called to the ministry.

The family eventually moved to Raeford, where Miriam, the youngest of four children, graduated from Hoke High School.

“Both of my parents were very good with words, and my mother, Sarah, was a librarian,” she says, “and I was planning to be an English teacher. Then I got in the chorus in the 10th grade, and Mary Archie McNeill (no relation) was the teacher. Everyone loved her, and by my junior year, I had decided to be a high school choral director. She was a real big influence on me.”

CONTINUED PAGE 52

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“I have never had a voice lesson. I just walk up there and sing. I have been given a gift, and I feel I should use it.”

—Miriam McNeill

OCTOBER 2015 |

OutreachNC.com 51

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 50

After graduating from the University of South Carolina with a degree in music education, she was a K-5 music teacher for 22 years in public schools and spent her last eight years in education in administration.

“I started out with elementary children and never wanted to leave them,” she explains.

One might assume that McNeill has been singing solos forever.

“Oh, no,” she says, laughing. “My very first solo came in the fourth grade when I sang the first verse of ‘I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day.’ I was scared to death.

I tried out for a solo in college and didn’t get it. I was nervous as could be.

“I probably didn’t sing another solo until I was in my 30s. It was OK, but I don’t recall it being anything extraordinary. I did enjoy doing it. As I have done it more and more, I have gained confidence, and I’d have to say I’m fairly relaxed up there. I don’t mind being in front of people.

“Whenever I’m singing, if my husband, Neal, is in the audience, I look at him before I begin. It’s a support thing, knowing he’s there. We are a very close family— Neal, our daughters, Elizabeth and Katharine, and me.

“The same with my parents, my brothers, John and Bobby, and my sister, Cecelia. She has a beautiful voice. I love to go over to our house and play hymns on the piano for Mother and Daddy, while they sit and listen. Those are wonderful times.”

Sometimes McNeill sings in programs that feature Broadway music or hits from the 1930s and ’40s.

Frequently, however, her solos are heard at weddings and funerals.

“I am honored to be asked to sing at those times,” 52

OutreachNC.com | OCTOBER 2015

she says. “I want so much to do my very best, to be able to please the families and maybe bring them some comfort and happiness. Funerals, of course, can be tough, particularly if I knew the deceased.

“But I don’t cry. I concentrate extremely hard so I won’t.”

People hearing her sing at funerals are not always able to contain their emotions. When McNeill hits the closing note of “The Lord’s Prayer,” for example, listeners often experience chill bumps and some tears as well.

“Recently, I almost did, too,” she says. “It was ‘The Lord’s Prayer’ at the funeral for George Crumbley, a friend and a longtime member of Highland Presbyterian Church in Fayetteville. I felt it coming on that final note and was glad it was the final one.”

The McNeills lived for a while in Fayetteville and are back now in Raeford.

“I love Highland Church, and I love Raeford Presbyterian, which is where Neal and I got married and where our girls were baptized,” she says of the church where she has been the director of music for 15 years.

Explaining what goes through her mind when preparing for a solo, McNeill says, “Well, the main thing is that I try to put my feelings into it. I like it when people say to me that they can tell I enjoy what I’m doing and that I believe what I’m singing. That people say they get so much from it is very humbling.”

There have been occasions when she has shared her faith as a speaker as well as a vocalist, making one think that she would be quite comfortable in the pulpit.

“I don’t know about that,” McNeill says, “but I do believe I could be an effective minister. Because my faith in Jesus Christ is strong.”

So is her voice.

Join us...

Thursday, October 22 Open House 4 to 6 p.m.

FA L L

676 NW Broad St

SOUTHERN PINES

Please RSVP by Oct.12 910-692-0683

info@outreachnc.com

Hors-d’oeuvres • Music • Wine & Beer Door Prizes • Remarks at 5 p.m.

Come Behind the Scenes and Meet the Team, Writers, Columnists, Photographers and Contributors who make OutreachNC possible.

Meet OutreachNC writers with new books published:

Cos Barnes | Thad Mumau | Ann Robson

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OCTOBER 2015 |

OutreachNC.com 53

S ch er

GREY MATTER See Grey Matter Puzzle Answers on Page 56

Aging Aloud Apples Aren’t Arise Autumn

Double Beaten Drown Bottle Eastern Burnt Characteristic Emerged Combined Funnel Ghost Ditch

15. ___ vera Gilpin 1. “The Whale” constellation 16. “O” in old radio lingo 21. Carafe size 17. Selecting by vote 22. Caribbean and 6. Curve others 10. Damon of “Good Will again 19. Arm bone 23. Uniform shade Hunting” 20. “Frasier” actress 25. Like some mushrooms 14. Express

ACROSS

54

OutreachNC.com | OCTOBER 2015

Grave Guards Handy Hangs Humor Hurled

27. Current 30. Dorm room staple 32. Which person?

33. Genealogy 35. Command 38. Debtor’s note 39. Ace 40. Death on the Nile cause, perhaps 42. Anger 43. Low-grade wool 45. Danger 47. Charlotte-to-Raleigh dir.

48. Edema 50. Good as new 52. Fine coating of oxide on metal 54. A-list 56. Sandler of “Big Daddy” 57. Categorize 59. Chic-___ Mountains in Quebec 63. Home to some Mongolian nomads 64. Calcium carbonate deposited by water 66. ___-bodied 67. Anger, with “up” 68. Overhangs 69. At no time, poetically 70. Its motto is “Lux et veritas” 71. Shift, e.g.

DOWN 1. Business firm, abbrev.

2. Fencing sword 3. Ticket info, maybe

India Irons Issue Needed Newer Nicer Notice Peered Poems Range Rinks Scenes Severe Sorted Stair Struck Thirst Towel Training Trusted Understand Unity Urgent Using Violates

4. Dissimilar 5. “Comprende?”

6. Fabric dyeing method 7. Snob 8. ___ of the above 9. Extent 10. More drab and colorless 11. Robust (hyph.)

12. Employing variations in pitch 13. Bait 18. Hue and cry 24. Whaling spear 26. Tiny bead of liquid 27. Move through water 28. 10 C-notes 29. King Aurthur’s knights (2 wds) 31. Boris Godunov, for one 34. “My bad!”

36. Coastal raptor 37. Cattail, e.g.

41. Comparison 44. Dirtier 46. Examine 49. Slight 51. Sweet liquid collected by bees 52. Heathen 53. Building block 55. Bank 58. “Mi chiamano Mimi,” e.g.

60. Bee structure 61. Aces, sometimes 62. British tax 65. Cabernet, e.g.

Changing hundreds of lives one at a time.

United Way of Moore County For information, call us at 910.692.2413.

To make a donation: Visit us online at www.UnitedWayMoore.com or mail your contribution to: United Way of Moore County PO Box 207, So. Pines, NC 28388

OCTOBER 2015 |

OutreachNC.com 55

GREY MATTER ANSWERS

SUDOKU

life

FITNESS

4 Tips for Fall Fitness

by Mike Robinson

T

he lazy days of summer have ended and if you’ve hit a slump in your fitness routine over the past few months, it’s time to get your body back in the groove for the fall and winter months. Below are four easy tips to get back into the workout routine:

CROSSWORD

1

Go Outside of Your Comfort Zone—Try something new!

Maybe you’ve tried working out in a gym before but felt that it wasn’t your thing. What is for everyone, however, is exercise, and there are many different ways you can stay healthy and active without going to the gym. Try something new to you such as a hiking club, a Zumba workout, gardening, swimming or biking. Don’t be intimidated by what’s out there. I always recommend trying something that scares you the most—you may just end up enjoying it.

2

Look for Activities That You Enjoy Doing—Just like in life, the more you enjoy something, the more likely you are to stick with it. If you know that you absolutely hate the idea of running on a treadmill three days per week, but you love to dance and you work up a sweat when you do it, then guess which one I would recommend for you? Exercise is supposed to be an enjoyable experience so if you can commit to dancing three days per week for a minimum of 20 minutes, then crank your favorite song and dance like no one is watching!

WORD SEARCH

3

Give Yourself a Pep Talk EVERY DAY—Confidence and believing in yourself is huge for kick-starting a new workout program.

If you don’t believe that you’ll be able to stick to the program, you will most likely not get the results that you desire. It’s inevitable that the day will come when you don’t feel like going to the gym or you start to question the speed of your results, but if you keep your eyes on the prize and remain positive, and remind yourself of your vision for yourself, then you drastically increase the likelihood of achieving your desired results.

4

Action, Action, Action—You can’t just wiggle your toes in the water forever. At some point, you have to jump in all the way. It’s the same approach when it comes to your fitness. Stop talking about doing it, and start working toward your desired goals. You’ll NEVER regret a day that you worked out.

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OutreachNC.com | OCTOBER 2015

Robinson is a long-time American Council on Exercise (ACE) Certified Professional and owner of MZR Fitness. In 2015, Robinson was named IDEA Personal Trainer of the Year. For more information, visit www.acefitness.org.

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OutreachNC.com 57

BETTER WITH AGE SERIES

by Carrie Frye | Photography by Diana Matthews

1930 Dodge Brothers Touring Sedan

O

wned now by Steve and Marion Moss of Aberdeen, this green 1930 Dodge Brothers Touring Sedan has had only four owners and was orginally purchased in Pennsylvania before traveling to Moore County.

Leo Arey, a friend of the Mosses’, previously owned the classic from 1956 until he passed away in 2002.

“I love old cars, and this one was special since it belonged to my friend,” Steve says. “It is mostly original with the exception of being repainted its orginal color.”

The Dodge Brothers, John and Horace, formed their car company in Detroit in 1900. Still ranking second in American auto sales in 1920, both brothers died of unrelated illnesses in that year, leaving the company to their widows.

Dodge was eventually sold to Chrysler in 1928.

In 1930, the new Dodge line offered six- and eightcyclinder models when gas averaged 10 cents per gallon. The four-door sedan with seating for five was the most popular model, with 33,000 produced.

The Mosses appreciate the 1930 sedan’s roomier interior, privacy shades in the back window, wooden spokes and big headlights.

Inside the storage compartment under the front seat, the couple found a crumpled envelope. Surprisingly enough, they were able to trace the envelope back to a family who still lives in Vass, and the son who had learned to drive in his father’s 1930 sedan.

The classic sedan’s odometer now tallies 63,000 miles and is always ready for the next joy ride.

“It certainly gets people’s attention,” Steve says. “It is fun to drive, and we drive all over Moore and Hoke counties.”

“ 58

OutreachNC.com | OCTOBER 2015

The most amazing thing about driving a classic is all the people you meet wherever we go.

People always wave.

—Marion Moss

”

OCTOBER 2015 |

OutreachNC.com 59

life

GAME ON

Auman Takes the Mound

by Thad Mumau | Photography by Diana Matthews

60

OutreachNC.com | OCTOBER 2015

The mural of Howard Auman pitching was painted by Scott Nurkin, a Chapel Hill artist. It is the first in a series of a dozen planned to go up throughout Sanford, each from a significant chapter in the city’s history.

life

I

f you drive along Horner Boulevard in downtown Sanford, there on the corner of Wicker Street you will see a mural two stories high of a baseball pitcher. He is in his follow-through, and the baseball he has just released is coming right at you.

The likeness is of Howard Auman, whose strong right arm carried the Sanford Spinners to the Tobacco State League championship in 1946, their first of three straight titles. Auman was a 22-game winner for that 1946 team.

This past spring, Auman and his wife of 68 years, Maxine, were riding around town one day when they came upon the big picture painted on the side of a building. Howard was surprised.

“It was the first time he had seen it,” she says, “and he said, ‘Why did they want to put my picture up there? I’m not a celebrity.’

“I said, ‘Well, Howard, they are doing things that are historical, and you sure are historical.’

“He just laughed and laughed.”

Auman died at the age of 93, a few weeks after he saw that mural.

The truth is, that while the painting of him pitching a baseball tells of the city’s success on the diamond, it also symbolizes the city itself and the people who worked so hard to make it grow and prosper.

He was a poster boy for the “greatest generation” described by Tom Brokaw. Tall and slender and distinguished looking, Auman was a man of honesty and integrity. His handshake was a signed contract, his nod of agreement an assurance that he would do the best he possibly could.

“Howard was my sweetheart,” Maxine says, smiling. “Almost from the time I met him.”

He was from West End, one of 10 children, and went to Wake Forest University on scholarship to play baseball and basketball. He transferred to what was then called Campbell College and after two years there, he was drafted into the Army.

Auman spent more than three years in the military and went overseas near the end of World War II.

CONTINUED PAGE 62

OCTOBER 2015 |

OutreachNC.com 61

life

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 61

After leaving the Army in 1946, he agreed to pitch for the Spinners.

“Howard was working in the family’s peach business,” Maxine recalls, “and he said he would play ball for the Sanford team, but only for the home games. He explained that he had to work during the day and could make it to the evening games in Sanford.”

The Spinners got considerable mileage out of Auman’s right arm. He was a workhorse, pitching 256 innings on the way to a 22-8 record and propelling Sanford to the Tobacco State League title.

In the fall, he returned to Campbell, but left school in January. As property of the Chicago Cubs, he would be heading to spring training and would not have been able to complete the semester. He and Maxine were married in March.

“It was a Saturday night, March 15,” she says. “For our honeymoon, we went to Macon, Georgia, for spring training.”

The 25-year-old righthander put together a sterling season for the Macon Peaches of the single-A Sally League. He pitched 273 innings and won 20 of 34 decisions. The next year, he moved up to double-A Shreveport, where he appeared in 38 games, working 188 innings and finishing 13-11.

In 1948, the Cubs invited Auman to their major league spring training camp and assigned him to Los Angeles of the triple-A Pacific Coast League. But he was seldom used and was sent back to Shreveport where he spent two more seasons. His career concluded at Texarkana in 1951.

“Howard really felt he was going to the majors when he went out to California,” Maxine says. “He didn’t understand why he didn’t pitch more there and was very disappointed. He sure did enjoy the time he had in professional baseball, though.

“What made him a great pitcher were his control and how fast he could throw. I loved seeing him fire that fastball of his. I went wherever he went; that was where we lived. I was in the stands for almost all of his games. I enjoyed watching him, and I grew to really 62

OutreachNC.com | OCTOBER 2015

like baseball. I still do.”

Auman managed a team in Robbins for one season, while working in a textile plant. Moving to Fayetteville, he bought a grocery store and ran it for five years. The family (by that time including daughters Anne and Kay) moved to Sanford in 1960.

He worked for Singer Furniture Company, where he refinished furniture, until retiring in 1982. He continued to do refinishing in his backyard shop for more than 30 years. It was something he enjoyed tremendously, but nothing ever replaced baseball.

“Howard loved the game,” Maxine says. “He wasn’t bitter about not making it to the majors, but he and I did talk sometimes about what might have been if expansion had taken place sooner.”

(There were 16 major league teams until expansion began in 1961. Today there are 30. That means there are around 360 big league pitchers. Many minor league pitchers who reached triple-A prior to expansion would likely have gotten a shot at the majors had they still been active.)

“He talked about that a lot, because teams never have enough pitching. There is a good chance he would have made it had he come along 10 or 12 years later.

“His memories, though, were good ones,” Maxine says, “of baseball and of his life.

“So are mine.”

Mumau has been a writer for more than 48 years, covering some of the sports greats, including Michael Jordan, John Wooden, Jack Nicklaus and Dean Smith. He can be reached at rutabega12@aol.com.

life

B E L L E W E AT H E R

Will Companion App Really Be Your Friend?

by Celia Rivenbark

Y

ou will never walk alone. No, seriously, never. As long as you have the new “Companion” app on your cell phone, every step you take, every move you make, every bond you break, I’ll be watching you.

No, wait. That’s Sting. I meant to say a designated friend will be watching you. Companion, which is free for iPhones and Androids, was invented by five University of Michigan students who wanted to feel safer during those long walks back to the dorm late at night.

Using GPS technology, a real-life companion can follow your progress on his phone screen even if he doesn’t have the app on his phone. If your dot isn’t moving he can ask “Are you OK?” If there’s no response in 15 seconds, an alert is sent. There’s even an “I feel nervous’ button that you can use to alert the police to your location.

Helicopter parents everywhere are ecstatic with this new app, but I worry that it will lead to a false sense of security. Will your child boldly walk into a rough neighborhood and explain to the potential mugger: “See this red dot on this green line? That’s me. And I am going to hit the “I feel nervous” icon and, wait, GIMME BACK MY PHONE!” Police will be getting a lot more calls and, yes, if it saves one person from peril, that’s reason enough to install the app. But what if the app leads to app-athy? After all, it’s possible the phone just fell in the toilet, and now not only have the police been alerted but also you will have to go to the phone store tomorrow, where an entirely different

kind of crime will occur (“Wait! How much?).

We have become a very nervous nation indeed. And not without reason. But would it be so crazy to just use common sense and go in a group to the library, frat party, monkey bars? We’re so into our phones that we barely look up while walking. The “I feel nervous” icon won’t help you if you’ve strolled into oncoming traffic while tweeting lyrics to a Mumford & Sons song like it’s something you actually wrote. So now you’re injured AND you’re a plagiarist.

This app is just getting started, we’re told. With the “silver tsunami” of baby boomers heading into old age, some people think Companion is going to be a great way to monitor mom and pops from long distance. I like to call these people “idiots.”

I’m a baby boomer, and I can’t even get my TV to get off the blank screen that says “Component 1.” I will have the cops at my house 24/7 if someone tries to monitor my route. Sometimes it just makes more sense to stroll in packs, talk to one another and call your mama instead of watching her blue dot mosey on the green line from bingo to water aerobics.

Rivenbark is the author of seven humor collections. Visit her website at www.celiarivenbark.com.

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OutreachNC.com 65

Generations

by Carrie Frye

OutreachNC asked adults and children our October question. Share your answer on our Facebook page.

What do you like to do to help others?

If friends are in trouble, I do everything I can to help them get through their problems. —Margaret, 79

I gave a person on the side of the road some chips!

I like to help people who are physically unable to do things like mow their lawn, cut down a tree, trim their bushes or build a handicapped ramp. If I see a need and that person can’t accomplish it, I will step in to get the job done. —Mike, 53

Giving advice is nice. —Alyson, 8

I like to look straight at a person, give them a big smile and say hello as though they matter to me. —Lynn, 60 Giving people a job who need one or helping a friend with a project. —Joseph, 50 I help folks with opening doors for them and seeing that they get to where they need to go. I always try to smile at everyone, as a smile goes a long way. —Marilyn, 60 I like to volunteer with my church to serve meals at the women’s homeless shelter. —Kathy, 53 I like to help people by making bags for the homeless with clothes, food and toys for people in need. —Carolyn, 76 Happy to help with yard work, home maintenance or transportation when there is a need. —P.D., 64 Having a listening ear and being supportive.

—Diana, 50

I like to be kind or make a stranger laugh. You never know what someone is going through or thinking that day, and a kind word can make all the difference.

—Laurie, 55

—Landon, 9

Give them something to make them smile, like a piece of candy. —Cecilia, 8 Picking up trash because I want a clean city. —Heather, 8 I help teach little kids how to swim underwater and teach older kids how to dive and do cool jumps. —Oliver, 8 Helping others is a reward because you make a friend. —H.C., 8 Getting a Band-Aid for my friend’s scraped knee. —M.T., 8 I help others by giving them compliments. —A.M., 8 Helping others gives me a good feeling, and it gives the person I help a good feeling, too. —L.C., 8 I try to be a good influence. I’m a leader, not a follower.

Hopefully, someone will follow in my footsteps. —D.L., 8 You can help others by sticking out your hand after they have fallen. —S.B., 8 Help others get out of trouble. —Jessiah 7 Standing up for people when they are being bullied gives me a good feeling. —J.J., 8 I pick up my neighbor’s pine cones for her. —E.B., 8 Help Dad cut limbs off trees. —Clayton, 7 If I am helping with chores, I am usually happy to help as long as I am not cranky. —E.D., 8 I like to lend a paw or lap full of comfort whenever possible.

—OutreachNC Co-editor Jeeves, 2

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