Siller Magazine April Issue

Page 1




April 2010

Content

6 - Thrift Store Shopping 8 - Books, Books, Books 12 - Help for Heartburn 14 - Anti-Aging Diet 16 - Money Savings 18 - Computer Shopping 20 - Cures for Fido President Gene Lara 806-231-0562

Sales Eric Muehlhausen Shana Ortega Oliva Herrera

Editor Camey Maldonado Contact Information 806-231-9822 806-231-0562 806-367-9804 You may submit any unsolicited writing, articles, or news information to our compliance department. We reserve the right to reject any material or advertisement without comment. Please include your name, and phone number for any questions we may have regarding any information you may have submitted for print. We strive to satisfy our advertising customers. We are committed to distributing our magazine on a consistent monthly basis; therefore, we will not be responsible for any material, information, or advertisement not camera ready after the deadline. To ensure quality of ad, content, or information for print, we encourage all our supporters to submit this information on or before the monthly deadline. For Errors and Omissions please contact our compliance department. Silver Magazine is published by, Blend Media. Reproduction of any material in this issue is forbidden without written consent. Anyone may pick up Sliver at any designated drop location. Removal of copies for any reason other than personal reading is subject to prosecution.

For Advertising contact Gene @ 806-231-0562


Silver Magazine

April is Organ Donation Month and this is something I feel whole-heartedly about. I want to share with you my views on organ donation, in the hope that you will take them on board and give someone the ultimate gift after you have left this earth the gift of life.

vital organs after you have passed away you can save lives. Of the 79,000 patients waiting for a transplant, over 10% of these are children under 18 years of age.

So, how can you help? All you have to do is get in touch with your local doctor and he will tell you all you need to know. You fill out one form, and receive a card; it really is that easy. Then, once you have passed away in many years to come, your Today in the US there are at least 79,000 organs will be removed and will give patients on the transplant waiting list. And somebody else the chance of life. another three thousand a month are added to this total each year. Not a lot you may After a transplant of a vital organ, the say when the population is close to three average survival rate is over 80%. That is hundred million, but now add twenty to a massive increase from the 20% that thirty family and friends to each patient, would live without the surgery. If you and the number increases vastly. donate your organs you could possibly save the lives of 50 people. Every day between 16 and 17 people die whilst waiting for a transplant. Again you To me the gift of life is the most amazing may say not a lot but what if that 16th or gift anybody can give. This is why I have 17th person is your family member? This is chosen to be an organ donor. where you can help. By donating your

Camey


Cheap and Chic Are you creative? Love decorating? Into saving a buck? And love the thrill of the hunt, too? Then thrift shop decorating is for you! Thrift shop decorating is FUN! Let's face it: Whether we're talking flea markets, garage sales, thrift shops or estate sales, everyone loves a bargain. Add in the current economy, and thrift shopping bargains become even more appealing. You might find a wall mirror for $10... a table for $35... an old trunk for $65. Now, take bargain shopping to the next level by incorporating the item into your home with some cheap, yet chic decorating touches. Use your creative eye Thrift shop decorating requires looking at items from a whole different perspective. Use your creative mind's eye to visualize the hidden potential of the item. How would it look refinished? Painted? With the legs cut down? Can it be a planter or a wall decoration? Will it look great in the living room beside the sofa or on your back patio near the door? Train your eye to see what it can be, rather than what it is. Then, assess the estimated cost of supplies for repair and your creative work to determine if the result will still be worth it. Thrift shop items with potential

Tables -- They come in all styles and sizes. Have some fun with one. A little paint or a refinishing can work wonders. Cut down the legs of a tall table and make a coffee table. Love the legs, but the top is a mess? Cover the top in decorative tiles, or decoupage it to match your decor and protect it with glass. Now, show it off in a special place in your home. Containers -- Jars, vases, baskets, boxes... They're all fun. Use the container the way it is or paint it, add a pretty ribbon and voila! You have attractive container for an interesting silk flower arrangement that will look beautiful anywhere. Picture frames -- Frames are always smokin' deals at thrift shops, garage sales and flea markets. They're usually dusty with an ugly picture inside. A blink of your creative eye sees the frame cleaned up, painted and with some pretty pressed flowers under glass. Not bad for a frame that may have cost only $5!


one special chair, stationary or rocker, that "speaks" to you. Sit in it and bond with it. Then, take it home and create your masterpiece. Colorful chair cushions and covers can help give the chair a new look and are available at local department stores at reasonable prices. Unique furniture pieces -- A rolltop desk, glass cabinet or old sewing machine table can be refreshed and brought back to life as a lovely focal point to any room. Don't let these special finds pass you by. Additional room accents -- Old steamer trunks, three-panel room dividers, Oriental rugs, coat racks, and ceramic planters are only some of the many unique rooms accents to catch your creative eye Lamps -- The poor thing looks absolutely beastly with its tattered and stained lampshade! But the base while thrift shopping. Use your talents to visualize their transformation into cheap, yet chic accents to is the right color and is kind of "funky." Give that lamp new life and some personality with an inexpen- your home. sive lampshade from Target or Walmart. It will look The thrill of the hunt perfect on that bargain table you just refinished and placed behind the sofa. It's a jungle out there! All the big cats stalk their prey (of tagged items), come in for the kill (on the prime choices), pounce (to be first to grab it) and then drag Wrought iron -- Once in a while, you may come the prize home for the family to enjoy. Ahhh, the across an interesting piece of wrought iron with no thrill of the hunt! Ahhh, the satisfaction of thrift shop particular function. Clean it up. Paint it. There's a decorating! Go ahead... Let the fun begin. wall somewhere in your home begging for a splash of iron art! Mirrors -- Table mirrors, wall mirrors, or floor mirrors -- who doesn't love a mirror! And they do so much to brighten up our homes. If you're lucky, you'll love the mirror just as it is. Otherwise, use your magic wand to add shells, dried flowers, glass tiles or whatever creativity you can dream up. Chairs -- Find that

Call 231-9822 for details


Pass on your old pages If your bookshelf has more than a year's worth of dust accumulated on the top, it may be time to consider giving up part of your collection. Saying goodbye to some of the classics may be too difficult but if you've got a series of books that you're looking to recycle, consider one of the following suggestions to give your used books a second lease on life. Spread the love We all know that selling your old books for cold cash is a great way to make some extra change, but why not add a little spring in the next owner's step with an inspirational note? Instead of letting your old paperbacks collect dust on your bookshelf, pen a little letter of encouragement on the inside cover and sell it to your local used bookshop. And, encourage the next owner to do the same. That way, future owners not only have a great novel to read, but also some history of where the book has been.

Recycling children's books No matter how badly you wish for it, your little ones won't be little forever. Before you toss that copy of Where the Wild Things Are, ring up your grandkid's teacher or librarian. With today's budget cuts, we're willing to bet your grandkid's school can use the extra donations. This will help to ensure that future generations have the privilege of reading childhood classics like The Cat in the Hat. Throw a party The less-than-stellar economic state has forced label-loving fashionistas to get creative with "recessionista" clothing-swap parties. Why not put those same principles to use and invite a group of your friends over for a book swap? Bring five to 10 of your recent reads and your favorite snack to share. Add a round (or two) of cocktails and enjoy!


Donate to the IRC The International Rescue Committee is a global network of first responders, humanitarian relief workers, healthcare providers and activists working to provide safety and sanctuary to refugees. They're on the ground in 42 countries and 24 cities in the US, so it'll be easy to find your local chapter. Books that will help refugees learn or improve on English and math skills are ideal. Plus, anything that doesn't get used is donated to Goodwill in exchange for money vouchers the families can use at Goodwill. Start an in-office library Designate an extra shelf in your company's office for employees to bring in their used books. Stock the space with your old novels for your coworkers to enjoy at their leisure. The only rule: take a book, leave a book!

Give to a charity book sale Nonprofit volunteer groups across the country hold annual book sales to raise money for their various organizations. The Volunteer Nonprofit Service Association in Phoenix holds an annual event to raise funds for three different organizations: Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation, Literacy Volunteers of Maricopa County, and Toby House, Inc. This year they raised more than $400,000 in two days - amazing! Make a Vet happy They make the ultimate sacrifice to serve and protect our country. The least we can do is offer them a bit of entertainment and education, right? Find your local VA Hospital and see what kind of books they might need. Donating is easy and will no doubt be appreciated.


Silver Calendar THURSDAY APRIL 8 8:30AM-5:00PM ALZHEIMER’S CONFERENCE AMARILLO COLLEGE WEST CAMPUS $30.00 PER PERSON/ LUNCH INCLUDED 11:30 AM DOWNTOWN WOMEN’S CENTER LUNCHEON AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/HERITAGE ROOM 8:00PM EQUUS AMARILLO LITTLE THEATER ADVENTURE SPACE FACILITY RATED R FOR LANGUAGE FRIDAY APRIL 9 10:00AM-7:00PM JUST BETWEEN FRIENDS TRADE SHOW AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/REGENCY ROOM 8:00 PM WTAMU SHOWCASE AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/AUDITORIUM 8:00PM CINDERELLA GLOBE NEWS CENTER $13.00-$48.00 PER PERSON 8:00PM EQUUS AMARILLO LITTLE THEATER ADVENTURE SPACE FACILITY RATED R FOR LANGUAGE SATURDAY APRIL 10 8:00AM-6:30PM JUST BETWEEN FRIENDS TRADE SHOW

AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/REGENCY ROOM 9:00AM-6:00PM HEALTHY KIDS DAY AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/N. EXHIBIT HALL 9:00AM WILEY HICKS JR ROPING BENEFITING MAKE A WISH WILL ROGER RIDERS INDOOR ARENA 10:00AM-12:00PM SECOND SATURDAY BACKYARD HABITATS WILDCAT BLUFF NATURE CENTER $3.00 ADULTS/$2.00 SENIORS & CHILDREN

8:00PM CINDERELLA GLOBE NEWS CENTER $13.00-$48.00 PER PERSON 8:00PM EQUUS AMARILLO LITTLE THEATER ADVENTURE SPACE FACILITY RATED R FOR LANGUAGE SUNDAY APRIL 11 12:00PM-3:00PM JUST BETWEEN FRIENDS TRADE SHOW AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/ REGENCY ROOM

2:30PM EQUUS AMARILLO LITTLE THEATER ADVENTURE SPACE FACILITY 10:00AM- 10:00PM TANTALIZING TABLES TRADE SHOW RATED R FOR LANGUAGE AMARILLO CIVIC TUESDAY APRIL 13 CENTER/HERITAGE ROOM 10:00AM-4:00PM JOB FAIR 10:00AM AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/N. 5TH ANNUAL CHI OMEGA GOLF EXHIBIT HALL TOURNAMENT BENEFITING MAKE A WISH THURSDAY APRIL 15 COMANCHE GOLF COURSE 6:00PM-9:00PM CALL 806-358-9943 FOR MORE INFO THIRD THURSDAY ART EVENT AMARILLO MUSEUM OF ART 3:00PM FREE TO ATTEND CINDERELLA GLOBE NEWS CENTER FRIDAY APRIL 16 $13.00-$48.00 PER PERSON 7:00PM DIOCESE OF AMARILLO RALLY 7:05PM AMARILLO CIVIC AMARILLO VENOM VS CENTER/HERITAGE ROOM CORPUS CHRISTY HAMMERHEADS AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER 8:00PM COLISEUM AMARILLO SYMPHONY $14.00-$28.00 PER PERSON “DISCOVER FAMILY” GLOBE NEWS CENTER


April 2010

SATURDAY APRIL 17

AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/COLISEUM

AMARILLO CIVIC

8:00AM-10:30PM

$30.00 & $35.00 PER PERSON

CENTER/AUDITORIUM

AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/HERITAGE

FRIDAY APRIL 23

WEDNESDAY APRIL 28

ROOM

11:00AM

7:30PM

DIOCESE OF AMARILLO RALLY

BEST OF TEXAS LUNCHEON

BROADWAY SHOW

10:00AM-2:00PM

$30.00 FOR LUNCH/ $20.00 FOR SPEAKER

“RAIN- A TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES”

EARTH FEST

ONLY

AMARILLO CIVIC

WILDCAT BLUFF NATURE CENTER FREE TO ATTEND

CENTER/AUDITORIUM 6:00PM-8:00PM 20TH ANNIVERSARY COORS COWBOY

7:30PM

10:00AM

CLUB

TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA

BOWL FOR KIDS SAKE

$50.00 PER PERSON INCLUDES BEST OF

“BEETHOVEN’S LAST NIGHT 2010”

BENEFITING BIG BROTHERS BIG

TEXAS GALA

AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/COLISEUM

SISTERS WESTERN BOWL

$50.50 PER PERSON 8:00PM THE BEST OF TEXAS GALA

THURSDAY APRIL 29

8:00PM

REX BAXTER BUILDING

7:30PM

AMARILLO SYMPHONY

$30.00 IN ADVANCE/ $40.00 @ DOOR

BROADWAY SHOW

“DISCOVER FAMILY” GLOBE NEWS CENTER

“RAIN-A TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES” SATURDAY APRIL 24

AMARILLO CIVIC

10:00AM-12:00PM

CENTER/AUDITORIUM

VEGETABLE GARDENING CLASS SUNDAY APRIL 18

AMARILLO BOTANICAL GARDENS

FRIDAY APRIL 30

3:00PM

CALL OFFICE FOR MORE INFO

7:30PM

AMARILLO YOUTH CHOIR

HARRINGTON STRING QUARTET

SPRING CONCERT

12:00PM-4:00PM

WESTMINSTER PRESBYTERIAN

GLOBE NEWS CENTER

BEST OF TEXAS

CHURCH

“TOUCH A TRUCK”

$18.00 PER PERSON

8:00PM

JOHN STIFF PARK

AMARILLO SYMPHONY

SATURDAY MAY 1

“DISCOVER FAMILY’

7:00PM

11:00AM-1:00PM

GLOBE NEWS CENTER

BOB AND TOM COMEDY STARS

A MOTHER’S DAY TEA

GLOBE NEWS CENTER

CHILDERS’S PLACE

$32.50 PER PERSON

$20.00 PER PERSON

WEEK OF THE CHILD

7:05PM

7:00PM

HANDS ON PROGRAM FOR CHILDREN

AMARILLO VENOM VS

“DAZZLED TO DEATH” A MURDER

PANHANDLE PLAINS HISTORICAL

COLORADO ICE

MYSTERY

MUSEUM

AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER COLISEUM

AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/HERITAGE

CALL 651-2258 TO REGISTER

$14.00-$28.00 PER PERSON

ROOM

THURSDAY APRIL 22

TUESDAY APRIL 27

7:05PM

7:30PM

7:30PM

AMARILLO VENOM VS

MIRANDA LAMBERT &

BROADWAY SHOW

ABILENE RUFF RIDERS

CROSS CANADIAN RAGWEED

“RAIN- A TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES”

AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/COLISEUM

MONDAY APRIL 19 9:00AM, 10:15AM, 11:00AM


Help for heartburn That grating, burning pain bubbling up your esophagus and into your throat is called heartburn. Nearly everyone will experience this painful condition at some time, usually brought on by stress, certain foods, age and lifestyle. Chronic heartburn experienced two times or more per week - can be a sign of a more serious illness called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), for which you should see your doctor. However, if you have occasional heartburn, changes in your diet can greatly improve your digestive health and put an end to that fiery feeling in your chest and throat. What causes heartburn? Heartburn occurs when you have an irritation of the esophageal lining because stomach acid seeps up through a valve, called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), and into your esophagus. In addition to a weak LES, overeating and too much pressure on the stomach (often with pregnancy or obesity) can worsen heartburn. Foods that relax the LES are also to blame. These foods include: acidic

fruit, such as citrus and tomatoes, garlic, onions, chocolate, coffee and other caffienated beverages, alcohol, peppermint, and high-fat foods. Stress, smoking and medications can also contribute to heartburn by relaxing the LES and/or stimulating the overproduction of stomach acid. And don’t underestimate the power of a tight belt – restrictive clothing can put pressure on your stomach and force acid back into your esophagus, too. Natural remedies for heartburn Though you can take over-the-counter antacids or prescription acid-blocking medications, learning how to control heartburn through natural means, such as changing your diet, is a much more effective, healthy, and long-term approach. Understand your heartburn Become a “diet detective” as your first line of defense against heartburn. Learn more about your condition as well as offending foods you should avoid.


Keep a food journal If you’re on a weight loss program, you may already be keeping a food diary. In addition to the types and amounts of foods you eat, to help reduce the occurrence of heartburn, start keeping track of how foods affect you. Ditch the foods that cause heartburn. Drink water before eating Drinking an 8-ounce glass of water 30 minutes before a meal can get digestion off to a good start. The lining in your stomach is made of mucous, which is 90 percent water…drinking water starts mucous production before you eat, and you’ll have less of a chance of heartburn. But don’t drink more than a glass of water since too much water can dilute your digestive enzymes. Chew, and chew some more If you don’t chew well, it’s much harder for nutrients to be absorbed by the body. It can also set you up for heartburn. Digestion starts in your mouth – chew your food into very small pieces before swallowing. Take digestive enzymes Visit your health food store and buy some digestive enzymes. Betaine hydrochloric acid supplements can help your body digest proteins by assisting your stomach’s own hydrochloric acid in processing food. Other helpful digestive enzymes to consider are bromelain and papain, both derived from tropical fruits. Eat bitter herbs Dandelion leaves can help the body produce more digestive enzymes; deglycyrrizinated licorice, which can help calm the digestive tract; and broccoli sprouts, which have been shown to eliminate the H. pylori, the bacteria associated with heartburn, ulcers, and even stomach cancer. Up your probiotic intake Improving your digestive health can reduce your risk of heartburn. Probiotics, like those found in yogurt, not only help with digestion,

they also boost your overall health. Probiotics also better the absorption of B vitamins.


Anti-Aging

Diet The Anti-Aging Diet Do you have a friend who looks 25, even though she's well over 40? Or an 80-something aunt with more spunk than your 13-year-old? You probably chalk it up to good genes -- or, in the case of your age-immune pal, Botox. But, surprise, slowing down the aging process is something you have control over. It boils down to primarily one thing: your diet. The foods you eat make a huge difference in how your body responds as you get older. Sure, consuming the right things can fend off ills like cancer and heart disease, but that's just the beginning. What you eat shapes all aspects of aging, including your strength and stamina, how quickly you finish that Sudoku puzzle, and the number of lines you see when you look in the mirror.

Age-Defying Food: Curry Powder How it keeps you young: Curry helps maintain your mental muscle. In fact, some parts of India, where Now's the time to stock your fridge with the five it's eaten daily, have one-fourth foods guaranteed to turn back the clock. the U.S. rate for Alzheimer's. Curry is packed with turmeric, a Age-Defying Food: Spinach spice that's rich in the How it keeps you young: When it comes to avoiding antioxidant curcumin. osteoporosis, calcium gets all the praise. But another Researchers at UCLA believe major player is vitamin K. New studies suggest K that curcumin wards off can improve bone density and lower the risk of hip Alzheimer's by preventing fracture. Leafy greens are a prime source -- one cup the growth of amyloid of fresh spinach supplies more than one and a half plaques, sticky proteins that times your daily requirement. are toxic to brain cells. In addition, it shields us from As well as safeguarding your skeleton, spinach keeps harmful free radicals (formed your eyes sparkling and clear. Years of exposure to when we metabolize oxygen), sunlight can damage the center of your eye's retina, which attack our cells, damaging leading to macular degeneration and blindness. But tissue and organs. Those strikes spinach is the number one source of zeaxanthin and increase in frequency in the body lutein, nutrients that make up part of the retina. as we get older. Curry prevents There, they soak up harmful light before it can do those assaults from happening in cumulative damage. the brain, where they can impair


Age-Defying Food: Tomatoes How they keep you young: Don't toss your sunscreen, but filling up on tomatoes may help protect your skin, according to German researchers. Volunteers swallowed a daily shot of tomato paste mixed with olive oil or just plain olive oil for 10 weeks. After daily exposure to UV light, the tomato group had 40 percent less sunburn than those who consumed only olive oil. The magic ingredient? Lycopene, which protects skin from the oxidation that results from sun damage and leads to wrinkles. Drizzling tomatoes with a little healthy fat like olive oil helps you better absorb the lycopene, as does cooking or chopping this red fruit. Age-Defying Food: Almonds How they keep you young: Almonds are packed with hard-to-get vitamin E (just one small handful delivers half your daily dose), a nutrient that keeps you agile and graceful. When researchers from several leading medical schools looked at the impact of different vitamins and minerals on speed, coordination, and balance in people over age 65, the only one that made a difference was vitamin E. Volunteers with the weakest physical performance had the lowest levels of E, whereas more agile participants had adequate amounts of the vitamin in their system. Researchers surmise this power vitamin keeps you coordinated by neutralizing those troublesome free radicals in both your muscles and nervous system. Age-Defying Food: Chocolate How it keeps you young: Dark chocolate doesn't just satisfy that intense craving that so many of us have, it also lowers blood pressure. That's heart-healthy news since blood pressure typically rises as you get older, increasing your risk for heart attack and stroke. Lucky for your waistline you don't need much chocolate to benefit from its blood pressure-lowering effects. German researchers recently found that just a quarter of an ounce of dark chocolate per day (the amount in one-seventh of most chocolate bars) trimmed two to three points off hypertensive patients' blood pressure. The reason? Cocoa is rich in flavonols, potent plant chemicals that encourage blood vessels to relax, keeping them youthful, supple and pliable.


Spend less enjoy more Just because the economy looks bleak doesn't mean you have to deprive yourself and your family. Here's how to spend less, but have more. You don't need us to tell you times are tight. Between the rising cost of gas and groceries, a disheartening recession, and the shaky job and housing markets, you've probably spent more than a few hours worrying about your finances. But tightening your belt doesn't mean choking your spirit; you can still enjoy the things you love.

without being rich, it just takes some creativity and a chutzpah, Ă la these real-world ideas: Stock up on homegrown food If you can't plant seeds in your own backyard (or don't have time), join a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) service; there are now approximately 1,000 nationwide. Members pay about $25 a week during growing season to get fresh, seasonal produce delivered to their door or to a neighborhood drop-off. Visit local harvest.org to get a list of CSAs in your area.

Learn the art of the haggle No matter where or when you're shopping, or for what, You don't have to deprive yourself, but you do have to the day of the fixed price is over. If you don't ask, 'Is that become more conscious of how you're spending your the best you can do?' you're doing yourself a disservice, money. Living well is about spending in alignment with especially with big-ticket items, including home your values, not frittering money away on things that don't appliances and furniture. The best way to negotiate is by matter to you. Your first step: Become clear on what you framing the price reduction as a win-win proposition. most appreciate in Butter up your favorite brands life, whether Companies love hearing from loyal customers and will it's taking often send them coupons or free samples. Pen an annual enthusiastic letter or e-mail to the customer service vacations or department of your favorite conditioner, snack food, or having a cleaning product; it could save you cash while you souped-up continue to enjoy name-brand products. cell phone. Vacation in not-so-hot destinations There are Check Internet travel sites like Travelzoo and Expedia for ways to do discounted rates and package deals. Try to book your the things you enjoy for vacation in the off-season, it is not as crowded and usually cheap or free. half the price of vacationing in prime vacation season. There's a Take a chance on a student thrill to Contact hairdressing or massage schools in your area to getting that connect with stylists and bodyworkers in training. These beautiful students are required to practice on real-life clients, thing or usually with supervision, before receiving professional experience certification, and services will cost you a fraction of the while also usual price. The students take a little longer, but saving surprisingly, their work is second to none, they want it to money. So you can live a be perfect to impress their teachers! Find a reputable beauty school near you at beautyschoolsdirectory.com. rich life


Make talk cheap For expensive cell phone bills go to the web to find a better deal. Enter billshrink.com, a Website that analyzes one of your monthly statements for free and recommends the best packages for you, taking into account who you call the most and when, the features you use, and which company offers the best coverage in your area. BillShrink will soon expand into the credit card market, directing users to the best card for their individual spending habits. 5 Things to Ask Yourself Before You Buy Money can't buy happiness, but it can sometimes buy stuff that makes you happy. Before you fork over your hard-earned cash for a purchase, determine whether you're investing in something that will truly add joy and utility to your life. Ask yourself: 1. Is this something I will use at least once a week? Will it be useful for at least a year? 2. Will this thing make me smile at least 10 times? Will it contribute to lasting memories? 3. Have I recently seen an ad for this item or experience? If so, am I secretly kidding myself that it will make me as skinny and giddy as the actress in said ad? 4. What am I willing to give up for this purchase? Would I be willing to eat ramen noodles for a week or give up my premium movie channel to finance it? 5. Can I wait until this goes on sale to buy it? Or at least 24 hours? (Hint: The answer to this one is always yes!)

Offer good through April 30, 2010.


Bargain hunting for a computer Be truthful with yourself concerning how you will be using your new computer. If the computer will simply be for browsing the internet and word processing, you can easily get by with the cheapest computer models. Even a store like Wal-Mart sells Computers can cost anywhere from a couple hundred cheap computers that can handle the basics. Look for dollars to thousands of dollars. How do you find the computer coupons or sales in your local newspaper. Stores like Best Buy and Circuit City tend to have computer that is perfect for you while at time good computer deals. You can even consider ensuring you aren't paying too much money? purchasing a used or refurbished computer when your computer needs are limited. Desktop versus laptop The first thing you need to do is determine whether Think twice about software you should purchase a desktop or a laptop. Laptops As you are ordering your new computer, don’t are portable, sleeker and more stylish; however laptops don’t always make the most sense. Desktops automatically assume that you need the latest and are generally less expensive, more customizable and greatest software that is on the market. Oftentimes cheaper to repair. When purchasing a new computer you can actually re-use the software you have on an older computer. Why re-purchase the software if you on a budget, you should initially lean toward a already own it? desktop. How much power? Once you’ve figured out whether you want a desktop or a laptop, the next aspect you need to determine is how powerful of a computer you need. It’s always tempting to go with the top of the line model, however that is rarely the right way to purchase a new computer. The speed of a computer is expressed in megahertz or gigahertz, while the memory is expressed in RAM. These are numbers you should consider when determining how much power and memory you need.

If the license for the software you need is non-transferable or you need new software, but sure to check for cheaper (or even free!) alternatives. For example, Microsoft Office can cost hundreds of dollars. A comparable application called Open Office can be downloaded and used free of charge. You can save additional money by not opting for any subscription based anti-virus software. Instead, you can use one of the many free anti-virus software programs available all over the internet.


Extended warranties and service agreements Many studies have shown that purchasing extra computer warranties and service agreements beyond the standard manufacturer warranty aren’t worth the money. You should remember that you aren’t expecting the computer you are purchasing to survive ten or twenty years. You are expecting the computer to last two to three years. With the way technology is improving and changing, computers become obsolete quicker than just about anything you can purchase. Generally, you should avoid extended agreements that end up costing you more than 33% of the original purchase price. Although, there are circumstances where a warranty or a service agreement makes sense. If you are purchasing a laptop and there’s a chance it may be stolen, or you travel extensively and it could get damaged, an extended warranty should be considered. If you are new to computers and don’t have any computer knowledge, a service agreement can help you solve any problems that may arise. If an extra warranty or a service agreement makes you sleep better at night, go ahead and add it to your purchase. On the other hand, if you are confident that your computer will be safe and you can handle fundamental computer troubles, decline the extra coverage to save even more money.


Home Remedy Tip #1: Vitamin E isn’t only good for treating those pesky wrinkles on your face; it’s also great for your dog’s dry skin. You can give a doggy massage by applying vitamin E oil to the skin, or go all "Hollywood" and pop your dog a pill (of vitamin E, that is). If you give the vitamin orally, check with your vet on the recommended dosages for your specific dog breed. Home Remedy Tip #2: Flavorless electrolyte-replacing liquids (e.g., sports waters or pediatric drinks) not only help athletes replenish fluids and babies rehydrate after illness, it can also supply your sick pooch’s body with much needed fluids after a bout of diarrhea or vomiting.

cures

for fido

Whenever you're feeling under the weather, you can go and take medication for whatever ails you. But did you know you can treat your dog with some simple home remedies, too?

Consult your veterinarian as to the appropriate dosage amounts when using these types of liquids on your dog. Home Remedy Tip #3: Deliciously plain yogurt is a healthy treat for your dog. The live acidophilus in the yogurt keeps the bad bacteria in the intestines down to a manageable level. If your dog is on antibiotics, a little yogurt will help keep yeast infections at bay. You can also give your dog acidophilus pills -wrapping the pills in bacon is strictly optional. Puppies are especially prone to yeast infections, so a little plain yogurt as a snack (or even dessert) can help keep things in balance.

Try these home remedy tips for dogs. Common Home Remedies for Your Dog Elvis may have sang "you ain’t nothin’ but a hound dog, cryin’ all the time." But it's not like you want your dog to have the blues and mope around feeling sick all day. Don’t worry because we have some easy home remedies to cheer up your pet. (Of course, check with your vet first!)

Home Remedy Tip #4: Chamomile tea. This tea uses the natural disinfecting effects of the chamomile plant to settle upset doggy tummies. It can also alleviate minor skin irritations once it is chilled in the fridge and sprayed onto the affected area on the dog's raw skin. The dog should feel an immediate soothing effect as the chilled tea kills the yeast and/or bacteria on the skin.


Home Remedy Tip #5: An itchy dog can be quiet an annoyance, especially as it goes around scratching itself on any piece of furniture it can reach. Forget the backscratcher. Buy some finely ground oatmeal (as in baby oatmeal cereal) and stir it into a bath of warm water. Your dog will thank you, trust us. Dogs with skin allergies, infections, and other diseases which cause itchiness have been shown to gain immediate relief with this approach, too. Home Remedy Tip #6: Dogs can be like kids at times, and as such they are bound to suffer from wounds and swellings occasionally. Try treating these ailments with Epsom salt soaks and hot packs next time. A bath consisting of Epsom salt and hot water can help reduce the healing time and the swelling, especially when combined with prescribed antibiotics (and under veterinary supervision). If soaking the dog in the Epsom salt (twice a day for five minutes) isn't convenient for your schedule or the location of the dog's wound, a clean towel drenched in the same solution can be applied to wounds with an almost identical effect. Home Remedy Tip #7: Does your dog have fleas? Never fear, try some borax powder. The standard stuff at the store will work wonders on the fleas by poking holes in their crunchy insect exoskeletons. A good way to make sure those parasitic suckers get annihilated is to sprinkle the borax on your floor then sweep or vacuum up the excess. Those invisible borax crystals left behind will kill the fleas and you won't even have to lift a finger. It's inexpensive and practically non-toxic compared to an appointment with the exterminator. Home (or holistic) remedies aren't just for those Hollywood types anymore. It's important to take care of your dog when it's feeling a little under the weather, and on a day-to-day basis. Most of all, it'll help keeping your baby from crying like a hound dog.


Directory Of Services COUNSELING SERVICES: ALZHEIMER’S’ ASSOCIATION 415 SW 8TH AVE STE 300 AMARILLO, TEXAS 79101 806-373-5313 www.alz.org/txstar FAMILY SUPPORT SERVICES 1001 S. POLK STREET AMARILLO, TEXAS 79101 806-342-2500 www.fss-ama.org EMERGENCY CARE SERVICES: AMARILLO URGENT CARE 1915 COULTER AMARILLO, TEXAS 806-352-5400 AMARILLO SENIOR CARE CLINIC 14 MEDICAL DRIVE AMARILLO, TEXAS 79106 806-358-8300 TRIUMPH HEALTHCARE 7501 WALLACE BLVD AMARILLO, TEXAS 79124 806-468-9185 HEALTH SERVICES: AMARILLO SPEECH, HEARING & LANGUAGE CENTER 1300 WALLACE BLVD AMARILLO, TEXAS 79106 806-359-7681 www.amaspeechhearing.org JO WYATT CLINIC 1411 AMARILLO BLVD EAST AMARILLO, TEXAS 79107 806-351-7200 TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF DISABILITY

MISCELLANEOUS SERVICES:

3501-L WEST 45TH AMARILLO, TEXAS 791009 806-376-7214 www.dads.state.tx.us

AMARILLO SENIOR CITIZENS ASSOCIATION 1220 SOUTH POLK AMARILLO, TEXAS 79101 OUTREACH HEALTH SERVICES 806-372-3381 1616 S KENTUCKY STE 140A AMARILLO, TEXAS 79102 RETRIED & SENIOR 806-353-9907 VOLUNTEER SERVICES www.outreachhealth.com 321 SW 7TH AVENUE AMARILLO, TEXAS 79101 806-373-8389 HOME HEALTHCARE www.pcsvcs.org SERVICES: ACCOLADE HOME CARE 6300 I-40 WEST, STE 210 AMARILLO, TEXAS 79106 806-352-3900 CENTRAL LINE INFUSION 1301 S. COULTER STE 201 AMARILLO, TEXAS 806-352-1212 COMPASSION HOME CARE 1301 S. COULTER STE 402 AMARILLO, TEXAS 79106 806-351-8522 www.compassionhomecare.us GOODCARE HEALTH SERVICES 4107 S.W. 49TH AMARILLO, TEXAS 806-373-7373 INTERIM HEALTHCARE 1901 MEDI PARK AMARILLO, TEXAS 806-467-1156 LONG TERM CARE: ODYSSEY HEALTHCARE 6900 I-40 WEST STE 150 AMARILLO, TEXAS 806-372-7696

SENIOR AMBASSADORS COALITION PO BOX 2024 AMARILLO, TEXAS 79105 806-372-3381 www.sac-panhandle.com MOBILITY SERVICES: OPEN ROAD MOBILITY 6103 STAR LANE AMARILLO, TEXAS 79109 806-353-2747 www.openroadmobility.com RETIREMENT HOMES: THE ARBORS 1910 MEDI PARK AMARILLO, TEXAS 806-457-4700 CHILDERS PLACE 6600 KILGORE AMARILLO, TEXAS 79106 806-350-2200 www.bivinsfoundations.org THE CRAIG METHODIST RETIREMENT COMMUNITY 5500 W. 9TH AVENUE AMARILLO, TEXAS 79106 806-352-7244 www.sears-methodist.com


NUTRITION:

REHABILITATION:

STATE AGENCIES:

FAITH CITY MISSION 401 SOUTH EAST 2ND AMARILLO, TEXAS 79105 806-373-6402 www.faithcity.org

NORTHWEST TEXAS REHABILITATION HOSPITAL 7200 W. 9TH AMARILLO, TEXAS 79106 806-468-2900 www.rehabcare.com

ELDER ABUSE HOTLINE 1-800-252-5400

HIGH PLAINS FOOD BANK 815 ROSS STREET AMARILLO, TEXAS 79102 806-374-8562 MEALS ON WHEELS 219 W. 7TH AMARILLO, TEXAS 79101 806-374-1521 www.amarillomealsonwheels.org WEST TEXAS GROCERY DELIVERY AMARILLO, TEXAS 806-433-1403 PHARMACIES: AVONDALE PHARMACY 5135 PLAINS AMARILLO, TEXAS 806-352-2708 D&S PHARMACY 3324 S. GEORGIA 806-352-2711 3500 N.E. 24TH 806-383-3377 SOUTHPARK PHARMACY 5901 S. BELL AMARILLO, TEXAS 806-358-2428 VALMED HOME HEALTH & PHARMACY #3 CARE CIRCLE AMARILLO, TEXAS 79106 806-350-6337 www.valmed-hhs.com

RESPIRATORY SERVICES: QUALITY RESPIRATORY SERVICES & REPAIR 6633 CANYON DRIVE AMARILLO, TEXAS 806-352-4140 SENIOR CITIZEN’S SERVICES: ADULT PROTECTIVE SERVICES 7132 W. I-40 # B AMARILLO, TEXAS 806-463-5114 AREA AGENCY ON AGING 415 WEST 8TH PO BOX 9257 AMARILLO, TEXAS 79105 806-331-2227 www.theprp.org PANHANDLE SUPPORT SERVICES 1502 SOUTH CLEVELAND AMARILLO, TEXAS 79102 806-373-0392 www.pcsvcs.org WIDOWED PERSONS SERVICE OF AMARILLO 2207 WEST 7TH- THE CANYONS AMARILLO, TEXAS 79106 806-374-9772

FOOD STAMPS 1-806-376-7214 MEDICARE HOTLINE 1-800-633-4227 SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION 1-800-772-1213 TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF AGING & DISABILITY HOTLINE 1-800-252-9240 TEXAS VETERAN COMMISSION 1-800-252-3036 TEMPORARY ASSISTANCE SERVICES: AMERICAN RED CROSS 806-376-6309 SALVATION ARMY 806-373-6631 TRANSPORTATION: LE FLEUR TRANSPORTATION OF TEXAS 900 S. NELSON AMARILLO, TEXAS 79104 806-367-1476 www.LeFleur.net

Visit us at

silveramarillo.com



Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.