Hoopla July 2021
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Ronald Fleming Retired commercial artist transformed old city incinerator into a Tulsa landmark At home with Eleanor Burns, the queen of quilting First responder captains tiki dinner cruises in Granbury Best-selling author finds muse in unsung hero of WWII
Self portrait by Ron Fleming
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Hoopla: News and Entertainment for Parker County Residents 55+
July 2021
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COX CONFECTIONARY STORE DATE UNKNOWN, UNIVERSITY OF NORTH TEXAS LIBRARIES, THE PORTAL TO TEXAS HISTORY, ; CREDITING WILSON COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY.
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Grape Root Beer BOTTLES Confectionary
CANDY CHERRY
Candy Bottles DR PEPPER Delicious
GRAPE GUZZLE
Treat
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July 2021
Volume 5, Issue 7
© 2021 Hoopla. All rights reserved. Hoopla is published monthly and available at more than 55 locations in Parker County and Western Tarrant County. For a complete list of distribution points, go to our website at www.hooplamagazine.com. Home delivery is available. You can contact us at Hoopla, P.O. Box 305, Weatherford, Texas 76086, or at the number below.
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Contributors
Puzzle Word List:
Find the following words in the puzzle. Pepsi Cola Soda Jerk Words are hidden and Malt Coca Cola
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Hoopla
Vanilla Slurp Guzzle Chocolate ROOT BEER Orange Crush
SLURP SODA JERK
Lara Cook • John English Rick Mauch • Mary H. McDow • Neil Sperry Janet Standifer • Dick Wolfsie Answer: Oiriginal ‘Saturday Night Live’ Cast Member Bill Murray, also known for roles in ‘Ghostbusters’, ‘Caddyshack,’ ‘Stripes, and ‘What About Bob?’
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This fresh-faced high school student turned 70 in 2020. He rose to fame on a popular live television series in the 1970s and went on to star in some of the most beloved films of the ‘80s and ‘90s. In 2016, he PUBLIC DOMAIN received the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor. He’s pretty particular on what roles he chooses these days and, infact, doesn’t even have a talent agent. Instead, he fields offers for scripts and roles using a personal telephone number with a voice mailbox that he checks infrequently. Who you gonna call if you can’t recognize him without his jumpsuit and proton pack? Just turn scroll further down the page. His name is upside down below the Hoopla masthead.
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July 2021
Hoopla: News and Entertainment for Parker County Residents 55+
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Fleming’s Masterpiece
RONALD FLEMING
Smithsonian artist Ronald Fleming is well known for his illustrations and wooden sculptures, such as the highlighted piece at left titled ‘Dragon Dance,’ but his most treasured piece of art was his home studio in Tulsa, now a historical landmark.
Artist’s home rose from the ashes of abandoned incinerator by John English Hoopla Correspondent Ronald Fleming remembers the day that changed his life. The Azle resident worked as a civil engineer for the City of Tulsa for several years and then went to work for Douglas Aircraft Company, where a single encounter changed his career path. “A new supervisor told me I would never make it as a commercial artist,” Fleming said. “I said, ‘If that’s how you feel about it, just cut me my last check and I’ll be on my way.’ That’s exactly what happened, and I started my own business—a commercial art company shortly thereafter.” The Oklahoma native began to work as a professional illustrator and wood turner and never
looked back. Fleming said that wood working became a great passion for him over the years that began at the ripe old age of eight. “When I was little, my dad was a butcher,” Fleming said. “He built our house and liked to work with wood. I would see him working and wanted to work with him. That’s how it all got started.” Fleming worked as an illustrator for 40 years and received numerous awards and recognition for his art. In 1991, Fleming, received the grand prize in the American Crafts Awards, and four years later, received one of the greatest accolades an artist can hope for when his work was displayed in the White House Collection of American Crafts exhiSee FLEMING, P. 4
RONALD FLEMING
Coors Light ad illustration also used in a 007 movie.
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Hoopla: News and Entertainment for Parker County Residents 55+
RONALD FLEMING
The atrium and hot tub area in Ronald Fleming’s former Tulsa home studio. Ronald carved all of the wooden staircases, doors, and even the beds.
FLEMING From Page 3
bition during the Clinton administration. “I had never had anything like that happen to me before,” Fleming said about the experience. “It was just great honor for me and something that I will never forget.” CYNTHIA HENRY His pieces have Ronald Fleming at a recent also been on display at the Smithreception spotlighting his artsonian American work and achievements. He Art Museum. drew the self-portrait on the Fleming has cover of this issue. worked with ebony, box elder and an assortment of other mediums, but said his favorite is pink ivory, an African hardwood, because of its color and texture. “I’m just very fond of it,” Fleming said As for inspiration, Fleming said he has many sources.
“I really can find it from anything,” Fleming said. “I could be walking down the driveway or in my wife’s garden and see the flowers, and I could feel inspired and head back to my studio to go to work.” Fleming’s studio in Tulsa was a wonderland of the most beautifully sculpted wooden vessels
July 2021
and something he cherished. He and his late wife, Patti, purchased an abandoned incinerator from the city of Tulsa for a mere $5,200 in the late 1970s. They saw potential. It had been built in 1939 and abandoned in 1940. Despite being in operation for one short year, Fleming said it took an entire year to shovel out the ashes remaining in the incinerator before they could really get started on the renovations. Ronald and Patti spent years transforming the industrial shell into one of the most exquisite homes in Tulsa. In fact, the home is an historic landmark and was a tourist attraction before it was sold to a new family. He replaced the industrial entries with heavy wooden doors, which were works of art in their own right. He and Patti, who was also an artist, filled the home studio with plants, art, family and everything they loved. After completing what Fleming called a lifelong project, it was a three-bedroom, 4,600-square foot mansion, which was named Hearthstone Studios. “I loved being in there,” Fleming said. “It was one of my favorite places in the world. I could spend hours in there working and thinking. I could clear my mind and create. It was wonderful.” Fleming said the process for creating his pieces varies, and he has no idea how long a project will take until its completed. “I get an idea for a piece of work, and then I go and search for the type of wood I think would look good,” Fleming said. “Then I go to work. I start to imagine the piece. It may take me a week or a month or a couple of months, and I don’t work on
The dining room adorned with art created by both Ronald and his wife.
See FLEMING, P. 5
RONALD FLEMING
July 2021
Hoopla: News and Entertainment for Parker County Residents 55+
RONALD FLEMING
Fleming’s wife, who loved horticulture, designed the landscaping in and around the studio. Fleming says much inspiration came from living there.
FLEMING From Page 4
them all of the time.” In addition to turning wood, Fleming was often hired by cigarette companies, movie and music production companies, beverage companies and others to produce illustrations for book covers, movie posters and advertisements. He only sold the rights to use those images. The originals are filed away somewhere so his children “will have to deal with it.” Fleming now resides at Legacy Oaks of Azle, a senior living facility, where he is quite content. “It’s really nice,” Fleming said. “The
people are nice, the food is good and they take really good care of me. I’m able to do some of the things on the computer that I like to do, and it’s just a good place. I am very happy to be here.” With all of the success and recognition Fleming has received from his work, he said what he hopes viewers take away from his art is relatively simple. “I would like for people to just learn to love and appreciate art,” Fleming said. “That’s all. I just want them to enjoy it.”
RONALD FLEMING
Fleming, who raced cars for a few years, drew a DeTomaso Pantera with a jet engine.
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Hoopla: News and Entertainment for Parker County Residents 55+
July 2021
At home with Eleanor Burns by Sally Keller Hoopla Correspondent
Like most of us, longtime quilting show host Eleanor Burns stayed home for the last year, but that doesn’t mean she wasn’t working feverishly from her secluded cabin in Julian, Calif., a mountain town outside of San Diego. “In the mountains, this is how we entertain ourselves: We have our lunch with the jays, and we feed them peanuts. They do maintain social distance on the fence. They are all at least six feet apart!” She may have been at home, but her business was thriving during the pandemic since so many were looking for new hobbies and picking up old ones. “I continued working with my artist, Merritt Voigtlander, sending a lot of things through the mail. I had classes ready for people to make my quilts with me. Normally, I bring in the Julian Women’s Club. It’s our charity that we do. It’s here in the community. They come in and sew and we do an opportunity quilt. The money we raise goes to scholarships for the youth of Julian. We also make a country store. We sew little items and put them on sale. I also do a stage show, and we raise a lot of money for our community.” With most of that on hold, she worked on six new projects while making plans to tape in her studio again. Her son, Orion, was running the storefront and online business back in San Marcos, California. “We sold tons of elastic. People ordered online, so Orion put lockers outside our store. He put the orders in the lockers. People drove up, went to their locker and picked up their merchandise, went home and made their masks. They sent masks all around the country.” Eleanor has a unique story going from a desperate mom on food stamps to a cherished television personality and successful business owner. “When I was pregnant with my second son, we moved to California, and
my then husband, Bill, was in law school. Orion was born in California, and there I was with my crybaby and no income. That’s when I went to the Parks and Rec department and said, ‘I can teach! I can sew! I’m really good at it. I can teach Stretch & Sew!’” The Parks and Recreation department had other plans for Eleanor’s teachSee QUILTING, P. 7
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Hoopla: News and Entertainment for Parker County Residents 55+ 7
QUILTING From Page 6
ing abilities. They said, “It’s 1976. The whole community wants to commemorate the bicentennial, and they want quilting classes. Can you teach quilting classes?’ We were desperate. I said, ‘Sure, I can teach quilting. I can teach anything.’ So that is where it all started.” Putting together a class while tending to a needy baby and her toddler, Grant, helped Eleanor to hone her gift for quickly creating class materials and fast-paced techniques. “Orion would tell you, if he hadn’t been such a crybaby…there never would have been a Quilt in a Day, because I had to work it all out. I never had a teacher. I just looked at a quilt and tried to figure it all out.” In 1978, Eleanor’s husband told her it was time for her to write a book, and Log Cabin Pattern was born. “I taught [the book] first in my classes in the Parks and Rec building, and one day somebody said, ‘I just love this, and I made my quilt in a day!’ and that was the beginning!” A few years later, as a single mother, Eleanor rented a building in which to house her business. “I just had a lot of faith. Okay, I’m going to go on TV, so I rented this building that could accommodate a television studio. Did I have a camera, no. I didn’t know anything about television, but I had to do it myself with the help of my ‘lifetime producer/director’ Brian Steutel. I’ve had that building since ’83. I’ve worked everyday, every weekend – and now at 76, I’m taking it a little easy,” she giggled. “I still work everyday! I put on my ‘50s music really loud and sing along.” Eleanor advocates for people new to sewing to step into the quilt making arena. “I recommend you start with something easy, maybe get a precut and an easy pattern. Actually go through the process so you complete it. I think it’s great if women can send their quilt out for long arm quilting because if you get something that is quilted and finished, people are so proud!” She also says to senior quilters, “Join a group, just to get together with a couple of friends that can sew and share and go on retreats…it’s a wonderful thing! Your days go so fast!” Generations of people have watched Eleanor on television. “My grandson, Jonas, watches me, and he says, ‘Grandma, you have almost one hundred thousand subscribers, and you’re going to get some kind of plaque, and I want to see that plaque!”
Crossword (Puzzle solution is on P. 19) ACROSS 1 Follower of Mary 5 Cut corners 10 "Bonanza" brother 14 Soprano solo 15 Carreras is one 16 Madcap 17 Unload, as stock 18 Breathing apparatus 20 Unlikely story 22 1997 J-Lo title role 23 Witch's blemish 24 That and that 26 Type of arrest 29 Giant red star 33 Cream of the crop 34 Golfer's goal 36 Big rig 37 Pot-bellied pet 38 Hyundai model 41 Fish-and-chips fish 42 Say again 44 Away from the wind 45 Strike, in the Bible 47 Go over again 49 Did a tire maintenance job 51 "Same here!" 53 Pocket bread 54 Mall attraction 57 Full of energy 61 Exert too much 63 Cry in a mudslinging contest 64 Clay-rich soil 65 Philly footballer 66 Teaspoonful, maybe
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Copyright 2021 by The Puzzle Syndicate
67 Mayberry sheriff 68 Film with the tagline "Get ready for rush hour" 69 From the top DOWN 1 After all? 2 Carpet layer's calculation 3 Industrial mechanic 4 Sentimental songs 5 Geologic layers 6 Ship's backbone 7 Map inside a map 8 Shaggy locks
9 Rikers resident 10 Flowering shrubs 11 Postmark part 12 Soon, to a poet 13 Steve Urkel's pursuer 19 Take a load off 21 Overused 25 Summertime top 26 Bank heist, e.g. 27 Brady housekeeper 28 Swiss dwelling 30 Classroom performance 31 Over-dramatize 32 Went along (with) 35 ___-stop shop
39 Produces milk 40 Moving about 43 "Grey's Anatomy" extra 46 Roald Dahl title character 48 Prepares to shoot 50 Expressed a view 52 Oklahoma tribe 54 Robin Cook classic 55 Nobelist Pavlov 56 Eggheady sort 58 Carpet feature 59 Alleviate 60 Keene's Nancy 62 Eminem's music
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Hoopla: News and Entertainment for Parker County Residents 55+
The Alzheimer’s Walk Challenge by Dorthy Anderson Weatherford Area Alzheimer’s Walk Chair 2021 What do you think when you hear the word “Alzheimer’s” or “dementia?” If you are like most – sadness, panic, worry and anxiety. That’s what happened to me, when my brother and my two sisters were told in 2020 that our mother had “vascular dementia.” We knew nothing about Alzheimer’s. It is scary to see your loved one, who was so independent her entire life, become unable to care for herself. Normal everyday things, like getting dressed, taking a shower or eating, become something they no longer remember how to do. This not only scares the caregiver, but it scares your loved one, too. One particular morning, I handed my mother her toothbrush, she looked at it and looked back at me and asked, “What do I do with this?” That was when I knew I had to join the fight to find a cure to end this horrible, deadly disease. It is destroying so many families – emotionally and financially. I promised my mother and myself that I would work until my last breath to help find a cure. Through the years of working with the Alzheimer’s Association, I have witnessed first-hand how caring and compassionate they are with not only those living with Alzheimer’s or dementia but with their workshops, training for the caregivers, support groups, and 24/7 support. And it is highly rated for the donation amounts spent on program expenses versus administrative expenses. I want to challenge you today to become part of the Alzheimer’s Walk in your area by logging on to alz.org. We need your help in finding our first survivor. Can we count on your support?
July 2021
As seniors, do we really need any more advice? I just received my 304th copy of • Take time to appreciate your the Oscar Mayer bologna. the AARP Bulletin. This publicapartner’s skin. (I thought that sound• Do the dishwasher boogie: Do tion has arrived in my mailbox every what you hate and turn it into a ed very romantic. Then AARP added: month since I turned 50. I never read party. For example, dance in front of “Be on the lookout for moles.” Well, the Bulletin when I was in my 50s that kind of ruined the mood.) the dishwasher as you load it. This because I resented being seen as a • Once a week, try to learn somewill remind you both how much fun thing new. (I did this over the last senior in those days. Now I’m in my you can have together. (Mary Ellen month and now I have four new 70s and, quite frankly, and I waltzed around things I’m lousy at.) I still don’t want anythe recycling bin afone telling me how ter we rolled it to the • Decorate healthfully. If you to eat healthy, boost curb Sunday night. generally keep chocolates on the by Dick Wolfsie my brain power, sleep The neighbors all cocktail table, hide them. (AARP is Humorist well, soothe my gut, or laughed at us because assuming if you are old enough to improve my memory, they knew that pickup get their AARP Bulletin, you won’t remember where you hid them.) or how to choose the best walk-in wasn’t until next week.) • Finally, do an hourly posture tub and chair lift. • Choose fragrance-free products. In the May issue, I glanced at the (For Mother’s Day, I bought Mary El- check: Sit or stand tall with your feet len a fragrance-free perfume. Did she flat on the floor. Look straight ahead, lead article: “60 Ways To Live Longer, Stronger, Better.” ever wear it? I’ll never know.) bringing your shoulders back and Here are some of the actual en• Bring plants into your home: slightly tuck in your chin. (Then take tries, with a few snide comments by Plants make you feel relaxed and free a selfie. But trust me, it won’t matter. me, added in parentheses. of stress. (Wait a second, aren’t those You’ll still look 30 years older than • Make your bed every morning. plants still illegal in some states?) you really are.) According to a survey by the National Sleep Foundation, people the who make their bed every morning the the sleep better. (I told Mary Ellen that I was willing to let her make the bed from now on. She told me it isn’t who the makes the bed, it’s the fact the bed is made. I was hoping to get away with that.) Eagle CrestVilla, Villa, nurturing independence • Change your sheets every SunEagle nurturing independence EagleCrest Crest Villa, nurturing independence day. People who change their sheets andpromoting promoting individuality and individuality and promoting individuality every Sunday are less likely to deEagle Crest Villa, nurturing independence Specialized programs, designed to stimulate Specialized programs, designed to the Specialized programs, designed tostimulate stimulate the the velop allergies that disrupt sleep. Specialized programs,and designed to stimulate the promoting individuality mind, body and spirit, integrated into everyday mind, body and spirit, are integrated into mind, body and spirit, areare integrated intoeveryday everyday mind, body and spirit, are integrated into everyday (No wonder I can’t sleep. We always life in our unique, nurturing environment. life inin our unique, nurturing environment. life our unique, nurturing environment. Specialized to stimulate the life in our unique, programs, nurturingdesigned environment. change sheets on Saturday.) Our customized plans of care are Our customized plans ofspirit, care aredeveloped developed Our customized plans of care are developed mind, body and are integrated into everyday Our customized plans of care are developed to improve the physical, emotional, cognitive, • Take a “do not disturb” break. toto improve the physical, emotional, cognitive, life in ourphysical, unique, nurturing environment. improve the emotional, cognitive, to improveand thespiritual physical, emotional, cognitive, recreational well-being each recreational spiritual well-being of each Ourand customized plans of careof are developed Close your eyes for five minutes and recreational and spiritual well-being each recreational and spiritual well-being ofofeach resident. Life enrichment programs utilize toLife improve the physical, emotional, cognitive, resident. Life enrichment programs utilize resident. enrichment programs utilize don’t open them for anyone. (I tried resident. Life enrichment programs utilize exercise, music and art totospiritual further enhance recreational and well-being of each exercise, music and art further enhance exercise, music and artto tofurther further enhance exercise,resident. music and art enhance that this past Friday just before I Life enrichment programs socialization, cognition, confidence and socialization, cognition, confidence and utilize socialization, cognition, confidence and socialization, cognition, and andconfidence art to further enhance ultimately, quality of heard the Amazon delivery truck ultimately,exercise, qualitymusic oflife. life. ultimately, quality of life. socialization, cognition, confidence and ultimately, quality of life. To schedule your private tour, To schedule your private tour, call 817-444-3275. pull up. I raced outside to get my ultimately, quality of tour, life. To schedule your private call 817-444-3275. contact Heatheryour Holman at 817-444-3249. To schedule private tour, call 817-444-3275. To schedule your private tour, call 817-444-3275. new headphones and collided with LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED IN AZLE FOR OVER 20 YEARS my mailbox.) LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED IN AZLEFOR FOR OVER 20 YEARS LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED IN OVER YEARS LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED INAZLE AZLE FOR OVER 2020 YEARS • Store fruit in the front of the ACCEPTING PRIVATE PAY ACCEPTING PRIVATE PAY ACCEPTING PRIVATE PAY ACCEPTING PRIVATE PAY VA AND LONG TERM CARE INSURANCE fridge. You will be more apt to eat a VA AND LONG TERM CARE INSURANCE VA LONG TERM CARE INSURANCE VAAND AND LONG TERM CARE INSURANCE NO COMMUNITY FEES healthy snack that way. (Great idea, NO COMMUNITY FEES NO COMMUNITY FEES NO COMMUNITY FEES 113 Denver Trail • Azle • 817-444-3249 but now I’ve stepped on the quart of 113 Denver Trail • Azle • 817-444-3249 113 Trail 113Denver Denver Trail• Azle • Azle• 817-444-3249 • 817-444-3249 www.eaglecrestvilla.com blueberries that scattered all over www.eaglecrestvilla.com www.eaglecrestvilla.com www.eaglecrestvilla.com the kitchen floor when I jammed my arm to the back of the fridge to reach
Carry On
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July 2021
Hoopla: News and Entertainment for Parker County Residents 55+
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Hoopla: News and Entertainment for Parker County Residents 55+
July 2021
Permission to step aboard Aledo resident captains one of Granbury’s most unique attractions by Rick Mauch Hoopla Correspondent Kirk Grable did not grow up a fan of “Star Trek.” But when your name is Kirk and you’re a captain, well, there’s simply no way not to capitalize on that combination. Which is exactly what the Aledo resident has done with Captain Kirk’s Tiki Cruises, with locations in Port Aransas and Granbury. “As a child I did watch the old “Star Trek.” I wasn’t a massive fan, but it was something to do. Captain Kirk just seemed like an obvious name based on the massive success of the show,” he said. And yes, he does do a spot-on impression of Captain James T. Kirk of the Starship Enterprise, which is worth listening to on his company’s promotional line. With having a home in both Port Aransas and Aledo, Grable and his family spend time traveling back and forth. One day an idea hit him. “We were looking for a great program in Port Aransas that catered to adults who did not want the child presentation and wanted to have fun, but there really wasn’t anything out there like that,” he said. So, in August of 2020, they started such a business. Starting the cruises in Port Aransas was a clear choice as the city is near a large body of water. Aledo, not so much. Still, he wanted a second location. So when a friend suggested Lake Granbury, which is one of the state’s largest bodies of water, it seemed like a nobrainer. “Granbury is the perfect community as they are centered around the lake and tourism,” Grable explained, adding that growing up in Weatherford, “I
grew up naturally going to Granbury.” Captain Kirk’s Tiki Cruises has two boats, one is a yacht in Port Aransas and the other is a tiki boat in Granbury. He is also always considering other locations. “We might expand to other locations if they have the tourist numbers and we can make a successful run at it,” he said. Grable conducts many of the cruises himself. He has years of nautical experience on vessels, as well as training and education courses by the Coast Guard. “I grew up on and around boats and have a master Coast Guard license, as well as all of my captains have their Coast Guard license,” he said. So on Captain Kirk’s Tiki Cruises, you are indeed sailing with a bonafide captain. Should the situation arise, folks can rest assured that Grable and his crew are specialized in rescue training. In fact, Grable, a paramedic, has traveled far and wide helping in response to disasters, including Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans and the 9/11 terrorist attacks in New York 20 years ago. “I was a rescue specialist with Texas Task Force One. I was on Blue Team. They were the FEMA team that responded to New York, as well as New Orleans, and then went to the Olympics in Utah for stand-by,” he said. “I spent about five years on this team. “Each day, as a paramedic, I have helped folks in their worst disaster. I have responded to tornado areas, for example Mansfield and other things along those lines.” Cost for a standard cruise in Port Aransas is $50 per person and $55 in Granbury. There are also specialty cruises that are unique pricing based on the experiences and clients’ re-
COURTESY
Got weekend plans? You do now! Check out Captain Kirk’s Tiki Cruises on Lake Granbury. They’re docked behind Mesquite Pit on Pearl Street. quests. Dinner cruises are available. The 30-foot-long vessel in Granbury is docked at Mesquite Pit on Pearl Street. The restaurant works with Grable to offer the unique dining experience.
“We just want folks to enjoy when they leave land and go out with us on the cruise,” said Grable. “Have a boat load of fun.”
July 2021
Hoopla: News and Entertainment for Parker County Residents 55+ 11
Mini Pecan Lemon Berry Tarts
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June 2021
Mini Pecan Crusts: Nonstick cooking spray 2 cups pecan pieces 1/4 cup butter, melted 2 tablespoons sugar Lemon Filling: 1/2 cup lemon curd 1/2 cup blueberries, raspberries or combination powdered sugar, for dusting 1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Line mini muffin tin with paper liners or spray with nonstick cooking spray. 2. In food processor, blend pecan pieces, butter and sugar until mixture forms coarse dough. 3. Scoop about 2 teaspoons pecan
mixture in each muffin tin. Use back of wooden spoon or fingers to press mixture evenly along bottom and up sides of each muffin cup. 4. Bake 12 minutes, or until crusts are golden brown. Allow crusts to cool completely before removing from pan. 5. To assemble crusts: Spoon 1 teaspoon lemon curd into each mini pecan crust. Top with one raspberry or three small blueberries. Dust with powdered sugar, if desired. Source: American Pecan Council. Visit AmericanPecan.com for more snacking tips and recipes.
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North Texas seniors competing in area pageants encourage others to join the fun
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Hoopla: News and Entertainment for Parker County Residents 55+
July 2021
A legend in her own right Telegram’s first female sports writer pens historical novel on WWII hero by Rick Mauch Hoopla Correspondent Sometimes in the process of sharing an inspiration, one becomes an inspiration themselves. Such is the case with Marjorie Herrera Lewis, author of “When the Men Were Gone,” a bestselling novel about a woman who defied the odds and found great success in a profession dominated by men. The book tells the story of Tylene Wilson, an assistant principal in Brownwood, who stepped in as the head high school football coach in 1944 when, as the book’s title says, most of the men over age 18 and under 45 were off fighting in World War II. In real life, Wilson coached at Daniel Baker College, which consolidated with nearby Howard Payne in 1952. Lewis, likewise, worked as a football coach (assistant) at Texas Wesleyan University, and before that was a beat writer for the Dallas Cowboys of the NFL for both the Fort Worth StarTelegram and Dallas Morning News papers. “I first heard about Tylene when I wore a T-shirt to be allergy tested. My T-shirt was one of my older daughter’s alma mater, and it said The University of Tulsa Football,” Lewis recalled. “The nurse, Jean Vanwaters, who was testing me, told me she also loved football, that all the women in her family loved football because her great aunt had
been a football coach.” Lewis started asking her questions about her great aunt, and she went on to tell Lewis that “Aunt Tylene” coached football during World War II in Brownwood. “I couldn’t believe what I was hearing, so by the time my appointment ended, we’d agreed I’d write her aunt’s biography,” Lewis continued. “While doing my research, I came across enough confirmation, but not enough information for a biography, so the only way I could memorialize what she had done was to write a novel. That’s what I did. I wrote a story around things I knew to be true.” As Lewis was researching Tylene’s life, she realized how much they had in common. “I’d been a sports writer, and she had been a football coach, so we both knew what it was like in a ‘man’s world.’ The more I learned about her, the more I became motivated to become a football coach myself,” Lewis said. Like Tylene, Lewis learned to love sports at a young age. When she was growing up, her favorite sport was the one in season. “I grew up in a football, basketball, baseball family, so those were my three favorites. My father played baseball as an undergraduate at Saint Mary’s College of California, and my mother, who grew up jumping on and off moving trains, dreamed of playing college
COURTESY
Marjorie Herrera Lewis football,” Lewis said. “I have great memories of my dad and me playing catch. I was probably about 9 or 10 when he taught me how to catch his curveball and fastball. My mom taught me football. I have great memories of the two of us listening to Notre Dame football on the radio and she’d explain what was happening to me. Together they taught me basketball, which was my favorite to play as a kid.” Lewis grew up in Santa Fe, New Mexico as the second oldest of five children with parents William, now a retired dentist, and Corine Herrera, a retired accountant. She played every sport she could, from backyard badminton and croquet to high school basketball, softball, volleyball, bowling, snow skiing and flag football. She even played a little tennis and golf. She had an opportunity to walk on to her
university basketball team at Arizona State but passed on the chance. “A part of me wishes I had, but at the time, I didn’t want to focus on college basketball when I could also play intramural football, tennis, softball, and even arm wrestling,” she said. Instead, Lewis focused on writing. She got a master’s degree from the University of Texas-Arlington and a master’s in fine arts from Mountainview in New Hampshire, where she studied creative writing fiction, graduating in 2016. “I pursued the MFA degree so I could give Tylene’s story my best effort, knowing novel writing would be quite different from journalism and AP style writing,” she said. “I loved everything about it, including all the hard work and long nights. One thing that stands out was, once I See LEWIS, P. 13
July 2021
Hoopla: News and Entertainment for Parker County Adults 55+
LEWIS From Page 12
decided to write the book in first perone that I’ll always remember was son, I decided to write at night when when Herschel Walker supplanted my family and ‘the world’ was asleep. Tony Dorsett, and after the game, At around midnight, I’d sit at the table Dorsett ditched the press. My editor inunder the kitchen table light, put on a sisted I get a quote, so I drove out to ToBrownwood letter jacket, put a picture ny’s house. He wasn’t thrilled when he opened the door to find me standing of the real Tylene and her husband, John, beside my computer, get the cof- there, but we ended up having a great fee going, and I’d sit and write, telling conversation, and I got the exclusive.” readers what I thought Tylene would But, like Tylene, there were those tell us. Occasionally, I’d softly play big who doubted her ability band music on my phone, and I’d just “I was covering the Dallas Cowboys’ send myself to 1944.” training camp in Thousand Oaks, CaliLewis’ own love of competition and fornia in 1986. It was the first day of the first week of camp, and the playperforming under pressure led her ers on the field were to enter the world mostly rookies and of sports writing. In free agents trying to 1984, she became the make the team. I was first woman hired as on the sideline taking a sports writer at the notes, including what Fort Worth Star-Telegram. In 1986, she beplayers looked to have came the first woman a shot at making the assigned to the Dallas team and who looked Cowboys beat. Lewis to be in over their started writing for heads,” she recalled. – Author Marjorie Herrera Lewis The Dallas Morning “When practice News in 1989. During ended, I was walking away from the field when I heard her career with these two papers she cleats on the concrete getting faster covered the Dallas Cowboys, Dallas Mavericks, Texas Rangers, Wimbledon and louder. I figured someone was trying to catch up with me, so I stopped and the Davis Cup. and turned to my left. A free-agent And there is no greater pressure in caught up to me, turned to me, looked that world than covering “America’s me in the eyes and said, “You don’t beTeam,” the Dallas Cowboys. long here.” I looked at him, thought of “I loved my experience as a sportswriter, especially during the days of what I’d seen in his first practice, and I the great newspaper wars with the said, “I just watched you practice, and Star-Telegram, Dallas Morning News, I’m going to be here a lot longer than and the Times Herald. The pressure you are.” As it turned out, he was cut, was intense, but it was as close as I and I never saw him again.” could get to high-level competition, When Lewis became a coach herand I thrive on competition,” she said. self, she drew from Tylene’s experiences. “Covering the Cowboys was a highlight of my career. The tough part was “I enjoyed coaching, and I came so many stars were in the later years to see that Tylene’s experience in the of their careers, and in 1986, my first 1940s and mine in 2017 were similar season on the beat, the team snapped in that I discovered, as she did, young its 20 seasons without a losing record men can be open to learning from by going 7-9. The mood at the practice a female coach if they know they’ll facility wasn’t always high, so that was learn something,” Lewis said. “I had a bit rough. no problem with the young men. A “Several stories come to mind, but See LEWIS, P. 14
“I would be so honored if any part of my life story inspired other women.”
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Hoopla: News and Entertainment for Parker County Residents 55+
July 2021
n Highly-Anticipated Book Releases - July 2021
LEWIS From Page 13
couple coaches? They weren’t as open-minded, but so it goes.” Lewis said two Hollywood producers have spoken to her about turning her book into a movie, including one who brought the book Still Alice (Julianne Moore won an Oscar playing the title character) to the screen. “I’m really excited about the possibilities,” she said, adding that she would love to see six-time Oscar nominee Amy Adams play Tylene. In the meantime, Lewis is about halfway through the manuscript of her second historical fiction novel. As for the future, she’s hoping to coach football again, and at the moment she’s working on a doctorate in English pedagogy and technology and teaching a couple sections of media ethics at the University of North Texas, so she stays busy. Through it all, Lewis still finds it hard to think of herself as an inspiration, though she knows that, like her own hero Tylene, she is. “It’s kind of strange to me to think of myself in that way, but I would be so honored if any part of my life story inspired other women,” she said. “My mother was a huge inspiration to me, and if someone were to think of me in the way I think of her, or in the way I think of Tylene, it would be unbelievable.” And what advice does she think Tylene would have for girls and young ladies eager to pursue their own dreams? “I think Tylene would say the same thing my mom would say, and that is, ‘You belong any place you want to be.’ I don’t think Tylene would be intimidated by what may appear to be a barrier, and she’d encourage women to do what they want to do despite what might be perceived as a challenge,” Lewis said. “I’d agree with that. “Sometimes doors will close, but if you’re prepared and willing to keep moving forward, doors will open.”
BRING YOUR BAGGAGE AND DON’T PACK LIGHT
BY MARIANNE CRONIN
When Helen Ellis and her lifelong friends arrive for a reunion on the Redneck Riviera, they unpack more than their suitcases: stories of husbands and kids; lost parents and lost jobs; powdered onion dip and photographs you have to hold by the edges; dirty jokes and sunscreen with SPF higher than they hair-sprayed their bangs senior year; and a bad mammogram. It’s a diagnosis that scares them, but could never break their bond. Because women pushing fifty won’t be pushed around. In these twelve gloriously comic and moving essays, Helen Ellis dishes on married middle-age sex, sobs with a theater full of women as a psychic exorcises their sorrows, gets twenty shots of stomach bile to the neck to get rid of her double chin, and gathers up the courage to ask, “Are you there, Menopause? It’s Me, Helen.” THE COMFORT BOOK
BY MATT HAIG
The new uplifting book from Matt Haig, the New York Times bestselling author of “The Midnight Library,” for anyone in search of hope, looking for a path to a more meaningful life, or in need of a little encouragement. “The Comfort Book” is Haig’s life raft: it’s a collection of notes, lists, and stories written over a span of several years that originally served as gentle reminders to Haig’s future self that things are not always as dark as they may seem. In-
Locally Owned and Operated Since 1958
corporating a diverse array of sources from across the world, history, science, and his own experiences, Haig offers warmth and reassurance, reminding us to slow down and appreciate the beauty and unpredictability of existence. ITS BETTER THIS WAY BY DEBBIE MACOMBER
It’s been nearly six years since Julia Jones had her heart broken. After her husband became involved with another woman, she did everything she could to save their marriage, to no avail. Distraught after selling the family home, Julia moves into a condominium complex that offers the warmth and charm of a fresh start. Now, having settled into her new community and sold her successful interior design business, she’s embraced a fulfilling new life, one that doesn’t seem to need a man in it. Her beloved father’s trusty saying is ringing truer than ever: It’s better this way. But when Julia meets a handsome new resident, she can’t help but be drawn to him. Heath is a welcome change from the men she’s encountered on the occasional—mostly disastrous— dates her sister has eagerly planned for her over the years. Their friendship blossoms into an unexpected love. However, they soon realize that combining families proves to be a challenge, even though their four children are adults.
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July 2021
Hoopla: News and Entertainment for Parker County Adults 55+
15
How does Social Security fit into retirement? vided you’re at least 62 and your spouse Here’s something to think about: You could spend two, or even three, decades has filed for Social Security benefits. in retirement. To meet your income Survivor benefits are another imneeds for all those years, you’ll generally portant consideration. When you pass need a sizable amount of retirement asaway, your spouse would be able to resets. How will Social Security fit into the ceive up to 100% of your benefit or his/ picture? her own retirement benefit, whichever For most people, Social Security won’t is higher. Thus, delaying Social Security be enough to cover the cost of living in retirement. Nonetheless, Social Security could not only increase your own benefit, but also the benefits are still benefit for your valuable, so you’ll BOBBY VARLICHI surviving spouse. want to do whatAn additionever you can to maximize them. al issue to think Your first move about, when The actual cannon that fired the first shot for Texas independence on October 2, is to determine by Mary H. McDow planning for how 1835. As Santa Anna approached the town of Gonzales and told the soldiers to surwhen you should Edward Jones Adviser Social Security render, the soldiers raised a flag on the cannon stating, “Come and take it!” Just 202 start taking Sofits into your redays after the skirmishes at Gonzales, the Battle of San Jacinto was won, giving Texans cial Security. You tirement, is your independence. The cannon is on display at the Gonzales Memorial Museum. can begin collecting benefits when you reach 62 – but should you? If you were to earned income. If you’re younger than full retirement age, your benefit will turn 62 this year, your payments would be reduced by $1 for each $2 you earn only beby about 71% of what d get if Edited Margie E.you’ Burke above a certain amount, which, in 2021, (Puzzle solution is on P. 19.) you waited until your full retirement Difficulty: Easy is $18,960. During the year you reach full age, which is 66 years and 10 months. retirement age, your benefit will be re(“Full retirement age” varies, depending on when you were born, but for most duced by $1 for each $3 you earn above people today, it will be between 66 and a set amount ($50,520 in 2021). But once 67.) Every month you wait between now you hit the month at which you attain and your full retirement age, your benefull retirement age, and from that point fits will increase. If you still want to delay on, you can keep all of your benefits, no taking benefits beyond your full retirematter how much you earn (although ment age, your payments will increase your benefits could still be taxed). by 8% each year, until you’re 70, when One final point to keep in mind: The they “max out.” Regardless of when you more you accumulate in your other refile, you’ll also receive an annual cost-oftirement accounts, such as your IRA and living adjustment. 401(k) or similar employer-sponsored So, when should you start claiming plan, the more flexibility you’ll have in your benefits? There’s no one “right” answer for everyone. If you turn 62 and managing your Social Security benefits. you need the money, your choice might So, throughout your working years, try be made for you. But if you have suffito contribute as much as you can afford cient income from other sources, you’re to these plans. in good health and you have longevity in your family, or you’re still working, it might be worthwhile to wait until your full retirement age, or perhaps even lon(Answer appears elseger, to start collecting. wherekey in consideration this issue)is spousal This article was written by Edward Another benefits. If your own full retirement ben- Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Adviser, Mary H. efit is less than 50% of your spouse’s full McDow, 102 Houston Ave., Suite 203, retirement benefit, you would generally be eligible to claim spousal benefits, pro- 817-598-0882. Member SPIC
July 2021
Money Matters
Come and take it!
nSUDOKU Sudoku
8
3
5
HOW TO SOLVE:
4
1
2 7 9 5 6 8
2 4
1
1
9
2
4
4 8 9 8 7
Copyright 2021 by The Puzzle Syndicate
3
Each row must contain the numbers 1 to 9; each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9; and each set of 3 by 3 boxes must contain the numbers 1 to 9.
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Hoopla: News and Entertainment for Parker County Residents 55+
July 2021
n Live Theatre Picks – August 2021
BIG RIVER: THE ADVENTURES OF HUCKLEBERRY FINN
Broadway on the Brazos Granbury Opera House 133 E. Pearl St., Granbury Ticket Info: 817-579-0952 Tentative Dates: Aug. 13 - Sept. 6 Synopsis: Mark Twain’s timeless classic sweeps us down the mighty Mississippi as the irrepressible Huck Finn helps his friend Jim, a slave, escape to freedom at the mouth of the Ohio River. Their adventures along the way are hilarious, suspenseful and heartwarming.
SOUTHERN BOYS: SONS OF SHARECROPPERS
In partnership with Jubilee Theatre Bass Performance Hall 525 Commerce St, Fort Worth Ticket Info: 817--212-4280 Tentative Dates: July 29 - August 15 Synopsis: What is it to pursue the American Dream? Johnny, one of many sharecroppers during the Reconstruction Era, dreams of a life beyond the fields. Can he convince his fellow sharecroppers to leave the black codes of the Mississippi Delta behind?
Thank you, Parker County! Honored As
by East Parker County Chamber of Commerce
7
$ 99 + Tax
plus Chips and 16 oz. drink (Regularly over $10)
FORTUNATE SON: A TRIBUTE TO CREEDENCE CLEARWATER REVIVAL
Musical performance Granbury Opera House 133 E. Pearl St., Granbury Ticket Info: 817-579-0952 Tentative Dates: August 6-7 Synopsis: One of the nation’s most popular Creedence Clearwater Revival tribute bands will be rock the stage at Granbury Opera House stage for three shows on August 6-7.
HE REIGNS Join us in Worship
Business of the Year Pork Sandwich
BONNIE & CLYDE
Off Broadway Casa Manana 3101 W Lancaster Ave, Fort Worth Ticket Info: 817-332-2272 Tentative Dates: Aug. 6-8 Synopsis: At the height of the Great Depression, Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow went from two smalltown nobodies in West Texas to America’s most renowned folk heroes and law enforcement’s worst nightmares. Fearless, shameless and alluring, it’s an electrifying story of love, adventure and crime. This show is suitable for mature audiences.
River of Faith is a new, spirit-filled church that meets in the heart of Weatherford at the 20th Century Club. Join Pastor Debra Camp and the worship team each Sunday at 10:45 a.m.
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July 2021
Hoopla: News and Entertainment for Parker County Adults 55+
Life in Grace
by Lara Cook North Side Baptist Church
I forgot something The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. – Psalm 23:1;4 NIV I recently forgot something important. Well, maybe I didn’t forget it as much as I just ignored it for a while. I forgot that “The Lord is my Shepherd, I lack nothing.” So far, 2021 has been a crazy, stressful year for me – some good stress, and some I could definitely do without. I know it has been a crazy, stressful year for all of us, but my daughter got married in May, so on top of everything else, we had a wedding to get ready for. I am so happy for her, and us. We love our new sonin-law and know he will be a great husband to our daughter. That’s good stress! Some of us have also been through some dark valleys since the calendar turned over on January 1, 2021. The dark valley is where Satan gets us if we let him. Valleys are part of our journey. Sometimes God leads us through valleys extremely slow, but He never leaves us there. He is always by our side and always moving us forward, just not as fast as we want Him to. Many of us are familiar with the version of Psalm 23:4 that says, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death…” Often, we take the Bible literally, meaning we think of the “valley of the shadow of death” to mean dying a physical death. I like the NIV version that says the darkest valley because we can all relate to a dark valley. There are lots of valleys
of death, or dark valleys, in life. Some dark valleys we may experience are: • Marriage problems or divorce • Loss dream/vision • Financial problems • Loss of loved ones/friendships The Lord promises to be our shepherd if we let Him. Too many times, we take the shepherd’s staff from His hand, jump in front of Him and try to lead Him in the direction we want to go. Taking our eyes off Him and looking at our circumstances will cause us to panic and feel out of control, leading
us to take things into our own hands. I forgot that He was my Shepherd and would take care of me. I got overwhelmed by all the valleys and took over because I felt like I needed to “do something,” even though I didn’t know what to do. I took the staff right out of His hand, and I paid a price. It took a toll on my health, my emotions, and almost stole a beautiful season away from me – my daughter’s wedding. I was exhausted from trying to carry it all. Taking control of everything only pulls it all down on top of us, crushing us beneath the weight.
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How many times do we feel like we are at the end of ourselves, and we just can’t take any more – any more financial problems, any more troubles in marriage, any more discipline problems with kids, or any more conflict with family or friends? When we are at the end of ourselves, we are exactly where God wants us. It is only when we come to the end of ourselves that we realize we need our Good Shepherd. He loves us and cares for us more than anyone and we lack nothing in Him. He is all we need in any and every circumstance of life.
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Hoopla: News and Entertainment for Parker County Residents 55+
July 2021
Dreaming of fall already Why try to candy-coat it? This is a tough time to garden here in North Central Texas. You worry about the effects the heat will have on your plants, and you have to worry about the effects it’s going to have on you as well. I’m a native Texan. I’ve been through these battles before. Read on, and I’ll help you. Plant: • Fall vegetables. Tomato transplants and pumpkins from seeds come first. Choose small- to midsized types in both crops for best production, and nurture them carefully for their first few days. Peppers will be next on the list (mid-July), followed by beans, squash, cucumbers and corn (August 1). • Hot-weather color. Buy transplant types that will hold up to the conditions you have for them and be sure they’re vigorous when you buy them at the garden center. Avoid bargain close-outs. • Crape myrtles in full bloom to ensure you’re getting the colors you want. Double check each variety’s mature size to be sure it will fit into your surroundings. Wrap the plant as you transport it home to protect it from highway winds. • New turfgrass, but water the new grass a couple of times daily for short intervals initially to help it get new roots started. Prune: • Spent flower stalks and brown foliage from spring-blooming pe-
rennials to tidy the garden up. • Any remaining dead branches from winter-killed stubble in trees, shrubs. You can probably make final assessments on almost all shade trees, although if you want to continue to wait on by Neil Sperry oaks to leaf out, Gardening Expert some are still making that effort. It’s been surprising how well most have resprouted already. • Keep mowing lawn at recommended height. Raising the cutting height does not improve summer durability. It encourages weeds.
Timely Tips
Fertilize: • Bermuda lawns to keep them growing actively. Apply a high-quality, all-nitrogen food every 8 weeks during the growing season. Do not fertilize St. Augustine or zoysia turf in the heat for fear of exacerbating gray leaf spot fungus. • Keep annual flowers and vegetables growing vigorously with watersoluble, high-nitrogen fertilizer.
NEIL SPERRY
Choose the right crape myrtle at the nursery by shopping now while they’re in full bloom. Remember to check the maturity size on the tag.
n Question of the Month
“My St. Augustine is developing large yellowed areas that soon turn brown. What is causing that, and what can I do?” It’s almost assuredly either gray leaf spot fungus or chinch bugs. I’ll give you the symptoms. You’ll have to make the decision. Gray leaf spot: This fungus On the lookout: shows up in hot weather. Infected • Tender new growth may strugSt. Augustine (also attacks zoysia) gle in the hot weather. Keep your has an overall yellowish cast. On plants fully hydrated. close inspection you see diamond• Newly planted shrubs should be shaped fungal leaf spots on the watered every 2-3 days by hand usblades. They’ll be gray/brown and ing a water wand and water breaker BB-sized. It often follows applicaor bubbler so you can run the hose tions of nitrogen fertilizer. at full volume without washing the The remedy: Discontinue fersoil out of the planting hole. Soak tilization with nitrogen between them with an amount of water equal June 15 and early September. Apply to the pot size from which they were Azoxystrobin (Scotts Disease EX) if planted. Sprinkler or drip irrigation you see the spots. alone will not be sufficient. Chinch bugs: These insects will
always be found in the hottest, sunniest parts of a St. Augustine lawn, never back beneath shade trees. They appear in the hottest part of the summer, late June through mid-September. Affected grass will appear wilted ( folded, glossy, dark green blades), but watering won’t help them perk up. If you get down on all fours and part the grass with your fingers, you’ll find BB-sized black insects with irregular white diamonds on their wings. They’ll be most active at the interface between green and browning grass. The remedy: Watch for the telltale signs of wilting, usually in the same spots each year. Confirm presence of the insects. Treat with an insecticide labeled for chinch bugs. Your independent nursery, hardware store or feed store will have what you need.
July 2021
Hoopla: News and Entertainment for Parker County Adults 55+
Dementia cure scams Question: Is there a cure for Alzheimer’s di“helps lots of illnesses, not only Alzheimer’s,” “may sease? help with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.” I am frequently asked if there is a cure for AlzPer the FDA, there is no cure, no product or heimer’s disease. Often caregivers contact me FDA-approved treatment that can stop or reverse Alzheimer’s symptoms or back up claims that a to ask about supplements and medications that product can reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease claim to cure Alzheimer’s disease and other related dementias involving memory loss. We all so at this time. Consumers should also avoid products claiming to cure or treat a broad range of unredesperately desire to find that cure for our loved lated diseases with their product. (i.e. also decreaones. This disease is a health condition which is relentless and can affect so many older adults. ses aches and pains, etc.). Answer: As the natural aging process progresThere are prescription medications that have ses, the older adult brain changes in ways that also been approved by FDA to treat people who have decrease the ability to accurately read social cues. been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Most of With this being said, older adults are vulnerable these medications work best for people in early or to scams that produce false hopes related to Alzmiddle stages of the disease process by slowing heimer’s cure scams. The climbing growth of our down the symptoms, such as memory loss; however, they do not stop the progression of the disease. population correlates with the increased amount Check with the Alzheimer’s of marketers who have latched Association list of commonly on to the older adult population and promote products that recommended supplements make unproven claims they and detailed information: can prevent, treat, delay, or by Janet Standifer https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/treatments/aleven cure Alzheimer’s disease. Parker County ternative-treatments. As with Fortunately, the U.S. Food Dementia Care Trainer any supplement, consult with and Drug Administration your physician before taking (FDA) is recognizing these any supplements to discuss their effectiveness and companies that prey on people who so desperately contraindications. seek a cure. Go online to report any suspected Alzheimer’s Word of Caution: The FDA reported, in some cases, supplements found on the internet are falsely scams to the FDA at www.fda.gov/alzheimershealthfraud. The FDA takes action against companilabeled as dietary supplements, are either ineffective, may cause harm and/or may negatively intees marketing unapproved drugs making make falract with prescription medications. se claims. You can also file a complaint with your The Alzheimer’s Association and the FDA have attorney general. If a supplement was taken that provided a list of questions to ask before purharmed your loved one, report it to the Departchasing these products. The list of questions may ment of Health and Human Services. help you determine if the treatment or suppleWe are still striving to cure Alzheimer’s disease. ment is worth taking. Join us for the Alzheimer’s Walk to step towards 1. Does the product appear on the FDA’s list of conquering this disease. Unproven Alzheimer’s Disease Products, which is References: Today’s Caregiver, Casey Kelly-Barton; FDA.gov available at: https://www.flickr.com/photos/fdaphotos/albums/72157706539397114 ? Disclaimer: I am not a physician nor can I re2. Does the product claim to cure Alzheimer’s commend supplements or medications. Speak or dementia? with your healthcare provider regarding supple3. Does the product claim to reverse dementia ments and medications. symptoms? 4. Does the product state that it can reduce the Janet Standifer: J Standifer Consulting, LLC, Derisk of Alzheimer’s by half? mentia in Perspective 817-901-4658, www.jstandi5 Some products are marketed with vague, ambiguous language which is misleading to the puferconsulting.com, janet@jstandiferconsulting.com blic with terms such as: “scientific breakthrough,”
Dementia In Perspective
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SUDOKU
n Find The Frog 8 3 4
Difficulty: Easy
DeAnne Newbury of Weatherford found him. Did you? Last month, the frog was sitting on a leaf on the bottom right-hand side of the picture on page 18. DeAnne will receive a $25 gift certificate to Target. Do you like winning prizes? Enter this month’s contest! Simply submit your name, address, phone number, and a brief description of where you find the hidden frog (not the frog at right) to Hoopla, P.O. Box 305, Weatherford, Texas 76086 or e-mail seniors@hooplamagazine.com. Contestants will be entered into a drawing for a $25 gift card to Baker’s Ribs in Weatherford. Make sure you pick up next month’s issue to see if you’ve won! Winners must contact Hoopla within 90 days to claim their prize.
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4 8 Solution 1to Crossword: 9 9 8 7
L A M B S K I M P A T E N O R Z A R I A S E L L R E S P I R A Copyright 2021 by The Puzzle Syndicate S E L T A L L T A L E W A R T T H O S E C A R D I A C A N T A H O L E S A L I S T E L A N T R A P I G E C H O A L E E S M R E T R A C E R O T A D I T T O P I T C I N E M A S P I R I L O V E R S T R A I N E A G L E D M A R L S P E E D A A N D Y
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Solution to Sudoku:
9 2 8 1 3 5 7 4 6
1 3 5 4 7 6 2 8 9
4 7 6 2 9 8 5 1 3
8 5 9 7 4 3 1 6 2
3 4 7 6 1 2 9 5 8
2 6 1 8 5 9 4 3 7
6 1 3 5 2 7 8 9 4
5 9 2 3 8 4 6 7 1
7 8 4 9 6 1 3 2 5
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Hoopla: News and Entertainment for Parker County Residents 55+
July 2021