Volume 33, Number 9
September 2021
24 Pages
Lubbock, Texas 79401
In September & Inside
Texas Tech football Sept. 4 at Houston in NRG Stadium, Houston Sept. 11 vs Stephen F. Austin in Jones AT&T Stadium, Lubbock Sept. 18 vs Florida International in Jones AT&T Stadium, Lubbock Sept. 25 at Texas in Darrell K. Royal - Texas Memorial Stadium, Austin Oct. 2 at West Virginia in Mountaineer Field, Morgantown, WV. 3rd First Friday Art Trail 6th Labor Day 7th Buddy Holly’s 85th birthday Buddy Holly was born Charles Hardin Holley on Sept. 7, 1936, in Lubbock, Texas. th 9 Medication Cleanout ........................page 4 10th New Neighbors 10th-12th Cowboy Symposium 13th Grandparents Day 15th-Oct. 15 Hispanic Heritage Month 18th Caprock Jazz Concert ............. pages 1,10 22nd 1st day of fall 23rd Celebrity Luncheon to honor the best ..........................page 24 rd 23 Retired Teachers meet ................page 18 23rd-Oct. 2 Panhandle South Plains Fair Feed Seniors Now ...............................page 24 Cactus Theater shows ..........................page 2 Ranch Days ............................................page 2 9/11 Memorial ......................................page 12 The need for faith ................................page 19
Caprock Jazz Concert set for Sept. 18 By Allison Monacelli The Caprock Jazz Concert is set for 6 p.m. Sept. 18 at the Buddy Holly Hall, 1300 Mac Davis Lane. The concert will take place in the Crickets Theater at 7 p.m. A cocktail hour will begin at 6 p.m. prior to the show. Tickets can be purchased online at buddyhollyhall. com, by phone at 800-5143849, or in person at the Buddy Holly Hall box office Monday through Friday from noon to 4 p.m. Tickets are $100 plus taxes and fees. Performers for the concert are Adam Hawley and Tom Braxton, and the Emmet
Cohen Trio featuring Bruce Harris and the Hub City Jazz Orchestra. Adam Hawley is a guitarist with three albums that have produced seven No.1 hits. Hawley’s third record, “Escape,” outsold every other contemporary jazz album in the nation in 2020. Tom Braxton, a jazz saxophonist, has performed all over the country for more than two decades. Braxton’s albums have been on jazz charts including Billboard, RadioWave, SoothJazz.com, Groove Jazz Music, Capital Jazz Radio, and Amazon. Emmet Cohen is a musi-
cian in New York. Cohen’s trio has become a first-call rhythm section for top jazz vocalists & instrumentalists. Bruce Harris, a trumpeter, has performed in New York’s premier music venues and jazz clubs such as Smalls, Rockwood Music Hall, and Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola. Harris has also appeared on “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” and “The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon.” The concert is a major fundraiser for the Roots Historical Arts Council and the Caviel Museum of African American History in Lubbock.
Page 2 • September 2021 • Golden Gazette
Cactus Theater schedules upcoming shows The Cactus Theater at 1812 Buddy Holly is open. Box office hours each weekday afternoon are from 3 to 5:30 p.m. The box office is also open approximately one hour before doors open for the Saturday and Sunday shows. Tickets can be purchased online at cactustheater.com or by phone, 806-762-3233, or email boxoffice@cactustheater.com Here’s the lineup for September and beyond: Sept. 12 - Wynonna Judd & The Big Noise Sept. 13 - Billy Bob Thornton & The Boxmasters Sept. 23 - Live Voltage: AC/DC Touring Tribute Sept. 24 - Max Stalling Oct. 1 - Los Chicos del 512: Ultimate Selena Experience Oct. 2 - The Isaacs with guest Blackwater Draw Oct. 7 - Savoy Brown - Classic Rock from London! Oct. 14-15 - An Evening with Sinatra Oct. 29 - Malpass Brothers - Traditional Country Troubadours Oct. 31 - Music of John Denver - starring Jim Curry
For the last 50 years, the National Ranching Heritage Center has hosted Ranch Day to celebrate ranching history in Lubbock. Events are being held every Saturday for free from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. through early October instead of one allday event. “Every Saturday we’ll emphasize a different aspect of ranch life,” said Julie Hodges, Helen DeVitt Jones Endowed Director of Education. “When the pandemic prevented our annual Ranch Day activities two years in a row, we decided to take the activities and spread them out a little at a time every Saturday through early October.” The NRHC is open to the
every Saturday through Oct.2
public free of charge from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. on Sunday. The historic park closes daily at 4 p.m., but the indoor museum remains open until 5 p.m. Upcoming Ranch Day Saturday activities will include the following: • Sept. 4 - Historical Hand Tool Demonstration by Joe Rogers • Sept. 11 – ”Birds of Prey” presentation by South Plains Wildlife Rehab Center • Sept. 18 - Dutch Oven Biscuit Cooking at the Pitchfork Cookhouse • Oct. 2 - Texas Tech Therapeutic Riding Center offers free horseback rides for children
Golden Gazette • September 2021 • Page 3
Don’t you dare call them ‘Dolls’! Beginning in 1959, Barbie dolls captured the hearts of young girls everywhere, as well as the wallets of their parents. Competing toy outfits soon sought to offer a male rival—possibly a macho soldier—but how could boys ever be convinced to buy dolls? Rhode Island-based toy maker Hasbro came up with a simple solution: Never refer to them as dolls but as (one’s voice drops a bit lower here) “action figures.” Early on, the Hasbro outfit—owned by three brothers named Hassenfeld— had made headway into the highly lucrative toy field with such moneymakers as Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head. As with other companies, though, the trio was always on the lookout for profitable new endeavors.
Inventor Stanley Weston had sold the basic G. I. (for Government Issue) Joe idea to Hasbro. In 1962, company president Merrill Hassenfeld and Don Levine, the head of R & D (research and development) and a Korean War veteran, refined the toysoldier idea by creating a foot-high flexible plastic man with 21 “points of movement.” The proposed figures would be offered in the uniforms of the Army, Navy, Marines and Air Force, along with accessories such as weapons (grenade launchers and bayonets were particularly popular), helmets, and miniature vehicles. The soldier’s name would come from the 1945 movie The Story of G. I. Joe, which focused on war correspondent Ernie Pyle.
Hasbro’s plastic Joe arrived in fatigues, with an M-1 carbine cradled in his arms and a jagged battle scar across one cheek. To boys,
the term ‘doll.’ If anyone referred to it as a doll, they were fined.” Joe was introduced in August 1964 at several New
the toy man tacitly signified a chest-thumping patriotism. “The concept of doing a doll for boys in the early 1960s was a big risk,” Hasbro executive Kirk Bozigian admitted. “What parent would let his son play with a doll?” This was when Hasbro decided to market Joe as an action figure, Bozigian explained. “The sales force was forbidden to use
York City stores, most of which were skeptical about its success. But, even at a lofty retail price of $4 (about $25 now), Hasbro’s offering sold out within a week. In 1964 and 1965, sales of G. I. Joes accounted for 2/3 of Hasbro’s total sales as their military miniature became the most successful boys’ toy of all time. Changes came and went
during Joe’s time as a hot commodity. In 1967, he was provided with a female companion—G. I. Nurse Action Girl. But toy-buying boys weren’t interested, and the plastic lady soon vanished— only to become collectible years later. As the decade wound down, resistance to the Vietnam War eroded Joe’s popularity. In 1970, Hasbro recast him as a tree-hugging peacenik. “Adventure Team” Joe featured gear for hunting safaris, scuba-diving, and working archeological digs. Patriotic purists balked at the changes, but G. I. Joe would eventually live on through comic books, cartoons, films, TV shows, video games and even a breakfast cereal.
Garrison Institute on Aging
“Healthy Food Demonstration” Lauriena Cruz, RDN with Natural Grocers
When: Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2021 from 3 to 4 p.m. Where: Academic Event Center, 3601 4th Street or Zoom Webinar https://ttuhsc.zoom.us/webinar/register/ WN_Xq6DO3X4Ti2WMAw_JX5ATA www.ttuhsc.edu/garrison For more information, call 806.743.7821 Follow us on Facebook @getfitlubbock SAVE THE DATE FOR THE NEXT LECTURE SERIES: Oct. 27
Page 4 • September 2021 • Golden Gazette
‘God’s love for dummies “Pieces of Fall” will feature music and a speaker. The “Sounds of Elegance” with Donna and Randy Hudson on the harp & cello is set for 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Sept. 14 at the Lubbock Christian Women’s Connection. Annalon Gilbreath will speak on “God’s Love for Dummies.” Cost for the luncheon, program and door prizes is $16, and the location is the Lubbock Country Club, 3400 Mesa Drive. RSVP by noon Sept. 10 to LubbockCWC@gmail.com or call Virginia at 806-781-4653.
Protect yourself and the ones you love. Get your immunizations. Everyone needs a flu shot every year. Adults need other immunizations as recommended by your physician. Contact us for assistance finding a clinic that provides immunizations. 806 18th Street 806.775.2933
Remove 10 pieces of litter every Tuesday
Keep Lubbock Beautiful
A new litter-prevention program: “10 on Tuesday”
Working toward a clean, litter-free city www.keeplubbockbeautiful.org 806-775-3149
New Neighbors membership luncheon, Sept. 10 The New Neighbors Club of Lubbock will hold its September Membership Luncheon on Sept. 10, at the Lubbock Women’s Club, 2020 Broadway. The meeting will start at 10:30 a.m., and cost of the meal is $17. Reservations are required at least 3 days prior to the event. Contact Peggy Dyess at 806-798-1314 (no texts). If unable to attend, cancel as soon as possible because all reservations must be paid for by the club. New Neighbors Club of Lubbock Texas was organized in 1978 to provide area residents an opportunity to meet, socialize and aid in civic endeavors. The group meets September through May for programs, as noted in the directory pub-
Oktoberfest set for Oct. 1 The 5th annual Oktoberfest is set from 6 to 9 p.m. Oct. 1 at the Texas Tech Frazier Alumni Pavilion. The Rotary Club of Metropolitan Lubbock does the festive fundraiser to benefit Lubbock Meals on Wheels and other nonprofits. Admission is $45 per person, which includes German food prepared by Top Tier Catering. An open bar will serve beer and wine. Music will be provided by BA Entertainment and a live band, a silent auction, a live auction, and a beer stein-lifting contest will add to the festivities. Tickets are available online at Oktoberfest Tickets or at Lubbock Meals on Wheels office, 2304 34th St., Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
People change for 2 main reasons: either their minds have been opened or their hearts have been broken. - Steven Aitchison
lished annually, and a variety of special interest groups meet at specified times. Fundraisers provide money for donations made to area civic non-profits. For more membership information, contact Virginia Ysasaga at 806-781-4653.
Medication cleanout set for Oct. 9 A Medication Cleanout is set for Oct. 9 at the Medical Pavilion, 3601 4th St., from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. It is a drive-thru event. Over-the-counter and prescription drugs should be kept in their original container. Begin cleaning out unused and no longer needed items and bring them by for safe disposal.
Roundtable, Oct. 2:
Homeless in Lubbock The next meeting of the Roundtable will be Oct. 2 when Chad Wheeler, CEO of Open Door, will talk about “What Can Be Done About Homelessness in Lubbock. September has Labor Day and Texas Tech home football games, thus no meetings. The Roundtable meets on Saturdays at Hillcrest Country Club from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The cost is $15. The group does collect donations of any amount to award to the Honors College at Texas Tech once a year. The scholarship funds will be presented at the beginning of December. For more information, contact Marie Evans, MEvans1398@aol.com
Golden Gazette • September 2021 • Page 5
Forget Taco Tuesdays – just make it every day! Dear Folks, You will want to enjoy these delicious tacos every day of the week - the Velvet Taco, a new Lubbock restaurant. These tacos are not only delicious and fabulous, you will now need to obliterate everything you’ve ever known about tacos. A dear friend gave me a tip about the Velvet Taco, so of course I had to check out all the details. Just the name piqued my curiosity, so daughter decided to employ Door Dash for our dinner delivery from V.T. OMG! GOURMET is the descriptive word here. We couldn’t believe our eyes. Even the plastic bags are beautiful. More on that later. We ordered a variety of tacos including: Kobe Bacon Burger, Grilled Flank Steak, Slow Roasted Angus Brisket, Fish and Chips, and MexiCali-Shrimp. All had flour tortillas, except the grilled flank steak, which used the corn tortilla, and all were prepared using soft tortillas. The brisket one was even wrapped in a Gruyere Cheese Crisp. Margaritas, you ask? Yes, folks, we ordered their “Kick Ass Margarita,” frozen, and it arrived perfectly slushy. Another delicious addition – their Blue Corn Tortilla and the “Elote” corn dip which contains fresh roasted corn off the cob, queso fresco, and other creamy ingredients – oh , so yummy! Stephanie, the manager, told me they use only fresh ingredients. They fry their own corn chips from the fresh Blue Corn Tortillas. She also informed me there is NO FREEZER on the premises. Everything is made
in-house even those fabulous pickles which topped my burger. Now for some important info about the V.T. It started in Dallas, and they recently celebrated their 10th anniversary, and arrived in Lubbock last March 30. Their slogan is ”Tacos Without Borders.” Now, about those plastic bags. Can you believe they feature Marie-Antoinette, that hated queen of the 18th century? She is pictured eating a taco from her right hand and holding that famous “cake” in her left. I’m told this framed image is hanging on the wall in their dining area. Someone truly has a hilarious sense of humor. The original Dallas location is still on Knox and Henderson. The corporation now boosts 25 restaurants nationwide. How’s that for success? Their menu consists of 4 veggies, 5 chicken, 4 fish, 3 beef, 3 pork tacos, plus 7 selections for the kiddos. There are 5 sides, 3 “boozy libations,” beer, and to please Queen M-A – a Red Velvet Cake. For your next special occasion a catering menu is available. Stephanie informed me they already delivered 1,000 tacos on one catering order. A take-home menu is also available. There is always a special weekly taco. Hours: Sunday – Thursday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday & Saturday 11 a.m. to midnight Velvettaco.com 806-370-9606 2401 Glenna Goodacre Blvd. Until next time, Cathy Easter
A free seminar for anyone 55 and over:
“Senior Hay Days”
Friday, October 1, 2021
TTUHSC Academic Event Center. 3601 4th St. 8:30 a.m. - Attendee Registration 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. - Fall Forum (light breakfast and full lunch included with reservation ONLY)
For reservations and information on the event, contact Lubbock RSVP at
806.743.7787 or rsvp@ttuhsc.edu
Lubbock RSVP In collaboration with
Vendors & community leaders to assist with questions or concerns for the senior population! Event is FREE and open to the public. Reservations are required limited seating!
Deadline to reserve spot is September 24, 2021.
Page 6 • September 2021 • Golden Gazette
Combating clutter for a healthy environment
A healthy home is important for any family. Clutter-free homes are healthy environments that make it easier for each member of your household to be the best version of themselves. Many caregivers feel a burden to clear everything at once, but keeping your space clear and clutter-free could be a small task to do daily, weekly, or monthly if you are caring for parents or an older loved one.
What are the benefits of clearing clutter? As a home becomes more “lived in” over the years, an accumulation of physical representations of special moments happens. From gifts from loved ones, keepsakes, photos, furniture and items with fond memories
Keep high use items in a conveafter expired items are removed. nient place. Inventory and discard forgotten All of us take comfort in very fresh produce, herbs and leftspecific items. It could be a favorovers. Fresh produce, herbs, and ite blanket, a coffee mug, or a cozy leftovers have a limited shelf sweater. Whatever it is, the best way life. If you think the refrigerafor an older person to enjoy it is in a tor is a bit cluttered, take a few convenient way. Placing items straminutes to get rid of forgotten tegically encourages use that does produce and days old leftovers. not require a constant search to use a Create donation containers in treasured item. bedrooms to purge weekly. If Be sure to keep the home bright you have a surplus of useful genWhat changes can I make and open. tly used items, designate a confor older loved one’s Lighting the home properly has tainer as a donation box in the in their home or mine? benefits above and beyond sight bedrooms or pantry. Empty the Remove any slip or trip hazards itself. Some experts suggest using container in weekly or monthly from the floor. brighter bulbs, hanging colorful artintervals by donating to local It’s important to remove items like food pantries or thrift stores. worn rugs, excess furniture, exposed work, or opening windows, curtains, cords, or any other objects that will and blinds to let more natural light Consider hiring a professional in as well. to help you host an estate sale or obscure a clear moving path. online auction. If you notice clutWhat can I do to keep ter isn’t going away no matter my home clutter-free what you do, it could be time to after we’ve decluttered? hire professionals to clear clutWe have a list of ways you can ter. Caring Transitions can help declutter in 15 minutes or less to you host an estate sale or online keep your home safe for yourself and auction in addition to sorting and those you love. Pick up a print edition organizing items in your home. Designate a basket or bin for at any of our 100+ locations - CARINGTRANSITIONS mail. Use a basket in a conveto storing special items for friends or loved ones, treasured items continue to be acquired and admired. Quite often the memories attached to what we have is more powerful than the item itself. To put this accumulation in perspective it’s important to know the average American home has over 300,000 items. If you find you are running out of space, your clutter may be a hazard.
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nient area to hold recent mail. Clear the container once a week to stay clutter free. Clear the counter of rarely used appliances. Appliances tend to take up large amounts of space. One way to quickly give any space a facelift is clearing the counters by removing appliances that are rarely used to remove clutter. Keep an eye on expiration dates for pantry items and cosmetics. This is a task most families overlook or forget to do. The benefit in clearing the cabinets on a consistent basis is the extra space
I hit the golf ball any way I can and laugh if it goes in the lake. That’s the breaks. I’m just happy I can still hit that golf ball. As I’ve aged, I’ve become kinder to myself, and less critical of myself. I’ve become my own friend. I have seen too many dear friends leave this world too soon, before they understood the great freedom that comes with aging. Whose business is it, if I choose to read, or play on the computer until 4 a.m. or sleep until noon? I will dance with myself to those wonderful tunes of the 50s, 60s & 70s, and if I, at the same time, wish to weep over a lost love, I will.
Golden Gazette • September 2021 • Page 7
Your elected officials Contact your elected officials. Keep in touch during good times, offer solutions in not-so-good times.
President Joe Biden 202-456-1414, or comments line 202-456-1111 The White House, 1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW whitehouse.gov
U.S. Senator John Cornyn 806-472-7533 or 202-224-2934 517 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510 www.cornyn.senate.gov/contact
U.S. Senator Ted Cruz 214-599-8749 or 202-224-5922 127A Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510 www.cruz.senate.gov/?p=form&id=16
U.S. Representative Jodey Arrington 806-763-1611 or 202-224-3121 U.S. House of Representatives, Washington, DC 20515 Arrington.house.gov
Gov. Greg Abbott 512-463-1782 Office of the Governor, P.O. Box 12428, Austin, Texas 78711-2428 Gov.texas.gov
Texas State Senator Charles Perry 806-783-9934, 512-463-0128 P.O. Box 12068, Capitol Station, Austin, Texas 78711 11003 Quaker Avenue, #101, Lubbock, Texas 79424
Texas State Representative John Frullo 806-763-2366, 512-463-0676 P.O. Box 2910, Austin, Texas 78768 5717 66th Street, Suite 116-117, Lubbock, Texas 79424
Texas State Representative Dustin Burrows 806-795-0635, 512-463-0542 P.O. Box 2910, Austin, Texas 78768 10507 Quaker Avenue, Suite 103, Lubbock, Texas 79424
Lubbock County receives recognition for transparency efforts from Texas Comptroller
Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar announced Lubbock County is the latest local government entity to achieve specific transparency goals through the Comptroller’s Transparency Stars program. Lubbock County received a star in the area of Traditional Finances, which recognizes entities for their outstanding efforts in making their spending and revenue information available. Lubbock County became only the 15th county in Texas to achieve this goal. Transparency Stars recognizes local government entities that provide easy online access to important financial data. “By providing meaningful financial data in addition to visual tools and analysis
of its revenues and expenditures, Lubbock County has shown a true commitment to Texas taxpayers. This effort achieves the goals set by my office’s Transparency Stars program,” Hegar said. “I am pleased to award Lubbock County a star for its accomplishments.” “This recognition by the Comptroller’s office is a testimony of the dedicated work by the Lubbock County Auditor and her amazing staff,” says Lubbock County Judge Curtis Parrish. “Transparency in our finances is one of Kathy Williams’ top priorities, and shows Lubbock County’s commitment to sound, conservative fiscal budgeting.” The Comptroller’s office launched the Transparency
Stars program in March 2016 to recognize cities, counties and school districts making important strides to greater government transparency. Local government entities can apply for stars in the areas of: • Traditional Finances, • Contracts and Procurement, • Economic Development, • Public Pensions, and • Debt Obligations. For more information on the program, visit the Comptroller’s Transparency Stars website. I know I am sometimes forgetful. But there again, some of life is just as well forgotten. And, I eventually remember the important things.
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Page 8 • September 2021 • Golden Gazette
Trustpoint names new CEO April Holsey was recently named CEO of Trustpoint Rehabilitation Hospital of Lubbock. The hospital is recognized nationally for providing intensive rehabilitation services to patients throughout the Lubbock and the South Plains region who are recovering from disabling diseases or injuries, such as strokes, brain, spinal cord and orthopedic injuries. Holsey brings more than 10 years of extensive healthcare experience to the role. She has held various positions within the hospital since joining the team in 2011, serving in leadership roles responsible for clinical outcomes, business development, and strategic opera-
mance and success’, says Craig Bragg, Ernest Health Regional Vice President and former CEO of Trustpoint. “The West Texas community will benefit from her innovative approach to patient care and program development.” Holsey received her undergraduate degree from Lubbock Christian University and a Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Texas Tech University. As a physical therapist by April Holsey background, April is passiontions. Most recently, Holsey had served the hospital as ate about helping patients reach a higher level of indechief operating officer. “Ms. Holsey leads with pendence. principle and passion. She You don’t have to has been an instrumental hang on to things leader in the hospital, and that don’t serve you. has a solid record of perfor-
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Golden Gazette • September 2021 • Page 9
Less invasive procedure reduces risk for stroke Covenant Health has a new procedure to treat carotid artery disease and prevent future strokes. Covenant Medical Center is the first in Lubbock to utilize TransCarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR). TCAR (tee-kahr) is a clinically proven, minimally invasive, and safe approach for high surgical risk patients who need carotid artery treatment. Cardiovascular Surgeon Dr. Dennis Eastman performed the first TCAR procedure on 71-year-old Donald Brasher on June 29. Later that day he followed up with two more successful TCAR procedures. “Stroke is the leading cause of death in the United States with nearly 800,000 people experiencing a stroke each year,” Eastman said. “TCAR combines the best
principles of surgery and carotid stenting into a minimally invasive treatment with advantages from both worlds - surgical principles of neuroprotection and game-changing endovascular technology. TCAR has a significantly lower risk of stroke or death compared to transfemoral stenting or carotid endarterectomy (the “Gold Standard”) with improved procedural efficiencies. It’s a win-win for correctly selected patients.” “A patient will always benefit from receiving care with a multidisciplinary approach,” said Chris Lancaster, Covenant Health Chief Executive - Adult Market. “If there is a way to treat one condition while also mitigating risks for another, why we wouldn’t we take that route? This new procedure is just
another way we are offering our patients the highest quality of care in our region.” Carotid artery disease is a form of atherosclerosis, or a buildup of plaque, in the two main arteries in the neck that supply oxygen-rich blood to the brain. If left untreated, carotid artery disease can often lead to stroke. It is estimated to be the source of stroke in up to a third of cases, with 427,000 new diagnoses of the disease made every year in the U.S. alone. TCAR is unique in that blood flow is temporarily reversed during the procedure so that any small bits of plaque that may break off are diverted away from the brain, preventing a stroke from happening. A stent is then placed inside the artery to stabilize the plaque, minimizing the risk of a future stroke.
Balance sheet of life
The most destructive habit – worry. The greatest joy – giving. The greatest loss – loss of self-respect. The most satisfying work – helping others. The ugliest personality trait – selfishness. The greatest ‘shot in the arm’ – encouragement. The greatest problem to overcome – fear. The most effective sleeping pill – peace of mind. The most crippling failure
disease – excuses. The most powerful force in live – love. The most dangerous act – gossip. The world’s most incredible computer – the brain. The worst thing to be without – hope. The deadliest weapon – the tongue. The two most power-filled words – I can. The greatest asset – faith. The most worthless emotion – self-pity.
The most beautiful attire – a smile. The most prized possession – integrity. The most powerful channel of communication – prayer. The most contagious spirit – enthusiasm. LIFE ends when you stop DREAMING. HOPE ends when you stop BELIEVING. LOVE ends when you stop CARING. FRIENDSHIP ends when you stop SHARING.
The first patient Brasher said he is happy with the results. “I didn’t mind being the first one [patient] because after he explained to me what we were going to do, and then I did the extra research as well, I was confident that this was the right thing to do,” Brasher said. Before TCAR, the main treatment option for severe carotid artery disease was an open surgical procedure called carotid endarterectomy (CEA). CEA removes plaque from inside the carotid artery to restore normal blood flow to the brain, but the large incision leaves a visible scar the length of the neck and carries risks of surgical complications, including bleeding, infection, heart attack, and cranial nerve injuries that can cause issues
with swallowing, speaking and sensation in the face. The TCAR procedure was developed by Sunnyvale, California-based Silk Road Medical, Inc. and includes the ENROUTE® Transcarotid Neuroprotection (NPS) and Stent System – the first devices designed and FDAapproved specifically for TCAR. More than 20,000 TCAR procedures have been performed worldwide through clinical trials and commercial use. TCAR has been studied extensively, and the clinical data have been excellent. Additional information about TCAR is available at http://silkroadmed.com/disease-and-treatment-options/. If you would like to speak to a physician about cardiac health, call Cardiology Associates at (806) 725-1801.
What a difference your lunch hour can make! Once a week, or once a month, use your lunch hour to deliver a hot, nutritious meal to someone who is homebound.
You will make their day, and they will make yours. Call
806-792-7971 for more info.
Lubbock Meals on Wheels www.LubbockMealsOnWheels.org
Page 10 • September 2021 • Golden Gazette Wrinkles mean you laughed, gray hair means you cared, and scars mean you lived.
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GOLDEN GAZETTE is published monthly by Word Publications, 1310 Ave. Q, Lubbock, Texas 79401.
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Golden Gazette • September 2021 • Page 11
Be True to You
The bad news: Life doesn’t come with an easy-to-follow manual. The great news: Life doesn’t come with an easy-to-follow manual. That’s right, for better or worse, you’re left to your own devices to figure out how the trajectory of your life will look. You’re the CEO. The head honcho. The boss of you. So, while sometimes it feels like we’re supposed to do things at a certain time, in a certain order, and in a certain way, the truth is, it’s all up to you. So, do it all backward. Do it out of the traditional “order.” Skip some stuff. Do some stuff twice. The most important thing to keep hold of is who you know you are, and who you want to be. - GrowingBolder.com
Page 12 • September 2021 • Golden Gazette
Located at the World Trade Center in New York City, the 9/11 Memorial Museum tells the story of 9/11 through media, narratives, and a collection of monumental and authentic artifacts, presenting visitors with personal stories of loss, recovery, and hope. www.911memorial.org
Hope, resilience, and unity. Largest showroom in Lubbock.
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It’s been 20 years since 9/11. Despite the shared grief in the aftermath of 9/11, hope, resilience, and unity lifted us up as a nation. Twenty years later, these lessons are more important than ever. The 9/11 Memorial & Museum stands as a beacon of healing and renewal – a physical embodiment of the compassion shown to one another, the resolve demonstrated to the world, and how, in the face of unfathomable loss, we rose as one. During this 20th anniversary year, we share the history and lessons learned with a new generation, teach them about the ongoing repercussions of the 9/11 attacks, and inspire the world with memories of fortitude, strength, and resilience.
Each year on the anniversary of 9/11, the families of victims gather for a ceremony on the 9/11 Memorial Plaza to read aloud the names of the 2,983 men, women, and children killed in the September 11, 2001 attacks and February 26, 1993 bombing of the World Trade Center. Six moments of silence
mark the times when each of the World Trade Center towers was struck, when each tower fell, and the times corresponding to the attack at the Pentagon, and the crash of United Airlines Flight 93 in Pennsylvania. From https:// www.911memorial.org/20thanniversary and NeverForget.org Map folds out to 34.5” x 22.5”
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Golden Gazette • September 2021 • Page 13 3 Beatitudes in Psalm We are all familiar with the Beatitudes of Jesus in the fifth chapter of Matthew. But Psalm 84 contains three beatitudes. The first talks about our relationship with God - about being with him and worshiping him and praising him. “Blessed,” said the psalmist, “are those who dwell in your house; they are ever praising
Seeds of Hope you.” Indeed, we are truly blessed that his invitation to us is “Come, now is the day of salvation” - an invitation to be with him today and every day throughout eternity. To dwell in his presence forever. The second beatitude we find is “Blessed are those whose strength is in you, who have set their hearts on pilgrimage.” Throughout this life we are not on our own to struggle with the difficulties of life. His strength is always available to us when we are weak, weary and worn out. He knew pilgrimage would be long and difficult, so he made himself available to us whenever we call on him. And, perhaps the last Beatitude actually sums up the other two: “O Lord Al-
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mighty, blessed is the man who trusts in you.” I’m going home A young college student was dying from cancer at home. He had been heavily sedated for days. Every now and then his mother would sit by his bedside and ask, “Dennis, are you here?” He would answer her, “Yes, Mom, I’m still here.” On the day of his death, however, he responded to her question, “No, Mother. I’m going home.” Above his bed in an empty room are the words: “I hear you, Christian, happy, unafraid, for you hear a song from the other side of death.” His restoration Many of us struggle through difficult times and painful days because of past
memories. We recall with pleasure what God has done in the past with gratitude knowing that it was his mercy and grace that enabled us to get through difficult days and long nights. Because of those joyous memories, we base our hope in him that he will shepherd us through dark valleys and sunless days. In Psalm 85 the author is apparently reflecting on a loss suffered by Israel in a military battle. They looked at their loss as punishment from God. But the Psalmist does not focus on the loss; he focuses on the fact that God has brought them out of captivity in the past and forgave them of their sins. With confidence and boldness he says, “Restore us again, O
God, our Savior.” The message for us to take away from this Psalm is that in times of depression, defeat and darkness we must remember God’s grace in the past and pray in the present for his restoration. Tempered by mercy Sometimes when we look at our past and are buried with the guilt of our sins, we are fearful of going to God and asking for his grace in these moments. We feel that we are undeserving and unworthy. We approach his throne of grace in fear and trembling, wondering if we have any right to ask for forgiveness, cleansing and restoration. But when these thoughts plague us, we must remember that God’s judgment is always tempered by his mercy, and he will always forgive us, restore us, and revive us again.
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Page 14 • September 2021 • Golden Gazette
Are you thin skinned? If you are a senior like me, you are sometimes surprised to look down at your arm and see a bloody or bruised spot. Yesterday I had a bloody spot on one arm and a bruised spot on the other. It didn’t used to be this way, did it? As we get older, the skin gets thinner, and we need to protect and care for our skin more than we did when we were young. Just think of the older people you knew who had a sore that would not heal, like my Grandpa did. It ultimately led to his death. So, I am not kidding when I say we have to care for our skin. One of the reasons is simply our skin gets thin. Thin and easy to tear. Most of the time I do not even know how I got the bruise or blood. Many people our age live alone. Often vision isn’t as good as it once was. And how can you see your back anyway? Or the top of your head. When I am working on patients, I often see parts of their body they can’t see. I always say something to my patient if I see something
that looks suspicious. I had a woman on the table and was standing at her head, working on her head, when I felt and saw a place that looked like it could be a problem. I said, “The next time you see your doctor or dermatologist, just ask him or her to look at this place on your head.” At the time, I did not consider that she had suffered through her husband’s cancer. At our next visit, she told me she left my office and went straight to her doctor, who was able to get her right in. (That is the first miracle!) He told her yes, she needed it removed, and it was a basal cell cancer. Before I said anything, she had no idea she had a problem. Hairdressers can often spot problems, as can massage therapists, estheticians, and manicurist. Many older people can’t see their feet very well and especially the back of them. So hopefully all the people who see your body can help you stay current with any skin issues. I’ve seen many people who have spots or growths
Because he is your son. One day as you’re brushing the hair out of your little boy’s eyes, or wiping jelly off his sticky fingers, he looks up and gives you a smile that lights him up from inside out, and you think to yourself – it doesn’t get any better than this. But it does. Because he grows up and becomes a good man and a good friend. And his smile still lights up your world.
on their skin. The spots and growths all look different. I tell people that skin is such a specialty, they really need to be checked out by a dermatologist. I don’t remember the older people I knew when I was a kid having many skin problems. What has happened in the last 60 years to make everyone need to see a dermatologist? What changed? I’m not really a fan of the tattoos that are so popular. Much of the color paint has metals in it, and I spend my time trying to pull toxic metals out of people. I’m not a friend to all the piercings either because some metals will make people’s skin sensitive to the metal. If someone is considering a tattoo or a piercing, ask them to look up the acupuncture point where they will have the tattoo or the
Golden Gazette • September 2021 • Page 15
piercing. The piercing I have for my pierced earrings goes right where the acupuncture point is for the eye. I have macular degeneration. Hum…is there a connection? You know, I would have been fine without the piercings. It was a hard decision for me to make, and I didn’t until I was 26 years old. I can say, “I wonder what if,” but that cow is out of the barn, so to speak. It just goes to show that it might be best if we did not do anything to change the body. It doesn’t really need decorating. We can have rings on our fingers and toes, necklaces, and clip-on earrings. There are many fashion statements,
like jewels in the hair or cowboy/girl boots. I’m sure I am showing my age by not completely welcoming current style culture. But, if we are lucky, we will all get old, and each of us will have to live with what we have done to ourselves. Even in old age, most people will never know because cause and effect are not always easy to link. Just ask any doctor, “What causes cancer?” “What causes rheumatoid arthritis?” “What causes lupus?” There is an awful lot of “we don’t know.” Since we don’t know, everything and anything we have done to our body might be part of the root cause.
Page 16 • September 2021 • Golden Gazette
I
t is great to get out more and ‘see’ friends and neighbors in the recent months. Of course, with the re-opening, the increase in virus hospitalizations are causing all to step back and use caution again. If you can, I encourage you to get the vaccine. We will continue to use safe practices for events and provide safety measures. The Healthy Aging Lecture Series will resume on Sept. 22. The event will be held at the Academic Event Center, 3601 4th St. at 3 p.m. The Center is located on the north side of the main entrance. There is ample parking around the center. The speaker will be Lauriena Cruz, RDN from Natural Grocers. She will have a healthy food demonstration to share. The session will also be available on Zoom. Use the following
Garrison Institute on Aging
TEXAS TECH HEALTH SCIENCES CENTER
By link to join the session https// ttuhsc.zoom.us.webinar/register/WN_Xq6DO3X4Ti2WMAw_JXSATA. You can join the session by phone, tablet or computer. For questions on this session and others, please call the office 806-743-7787 or 806-7437821. The Care Partner Academy has resumed in-person sessions. A session was held in August and featured Caitlin Corey, Equal Justice Works Fellow, with the Legal Aid of Northwest Texas. She presented the ‘Hidden Dangers of COVID-19.’ It detailed the increase of fraud and scams on seniors. Contact the office if you need more information. The next session is sched-
uled for Sept. 14. Allison Childress, PhD, RDN, CSSD, LD, Texas Tech University will speak on what we should focus our diets on as we age. The sessions can provide you with professional education and offer caregivers the opportunity to ask questions and join in discussions. For more information, contact me at 806743-1217 or email at joan. blackmon@ttuhsc.edu. The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) has scheduled a “Senior Hay Days” for Friday, Oct. 1 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The topics to be discussed are Identity Theft, Exercise, Nutrition, Emergency Services, and Car Care. The event is free and open to the public. A light breakfast and lunch is provided. Reservations are required. It will be held at the TTUHSC Academic Event Center, 3601 4th St. For information and reservations, call 806-743-7787 or rsvp@ttuhsc.edu. Comfort Keepers has partnered with Lubbock Meals on Wheels to assist in providing weekend packs for seniors who cannot provide a healthy meal for themselves. The Feed Seniors Now program has 350 recipients (with more on a wait list) who benefit from this program. If you or a group would like to join the effort,
you can do so by conducting a food drive or fundraiser. Volunteers will be at 4 local Walmart’s (114th & Quaker, Loop 289 & Quaker, 82nd & Milwaukee, 4th & Frankford) on Sept. 25 for on-site collections. Items requested should be single-serve and non-refrigerated. Pickups and drops offs are available. For specific items and more information, contact LMOW at 806-792-7971 or the RSVP office. Medication Cleanout for Lubbock area will be held Oct. 9 at the Medical Pavilion, 3601 4th St., from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. It is a drive-thru event. Over the counter and prescription drugs should be kept in their original container. Mark your calendars now and begin cleaning out unused and no longer needed items. Volunteers Wanted. Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) is looking for volunteers. Many of the non-profits sites have started to operate at full capacity – volunteers are needed.
If you have a desire to get out and share your time and talents with those in need in our community, contact our office. We will find the right place for you. Contact the office at rsvp@ttuhsc.edu or 806-743-7787. • Why was school easier for cave people? They had no history to learn. • Why did the broom get a poor grade in school? Because it was always sweeping during class. • Why was the teacher wearing sunglasses to school? She had bright students. • What is the king of all school supplies? The ruler. • What kind of school do you go to if you are ____? • …an ice cream man? Sundae School …a giant? High School …a surfer? Boarding School …King Arthur? Knight School September 11 – A day to remember-never forget.
My wife asked me why I spoke so softly in the house. I said I was afraid Mark Zuckerberg was listening. She laughed. Alexa laughed. Siri laughed. For Mother’s Day, they say we can meet up to 8 people without any problems. But I don’t know 8 people without problems.
Golden Gazette • September 2021 • Page 17
‘Maggie May’ by Rod Stewart One has to wonder: Somewhere in England in 1971, was there a woman in her mid-40s—and possibly wearing a Mona Lisa smile—who heard “Maggie May” and realized that she might have been the inspiration for Rod Stewart’s breakthrough rock tune? We’ll probably never know. Roderick David Stewart was born in London in 1945, the youngest of five children of a construction foreman and a stay-at-home mother. He quit school at age 15 to work a variety of menial jobs, including that of gravedigger. Music became Rod’s freetime obsession, and he took up the guitar, the banjo, and the harmonica, although he always preferred singing. Later, mimicking such American soul stars as Sam Cooke and Otis Redding, Stewart sang with numerous bands before ending up in the iconic UK outfit Small Faces. He recorded both as the Small Faces front man and a solo artist. The first two Rod Stewart albums didn’t bring him fame or fortune, but his third effort—Every Picture Tells a Story—made Rod Stewart’s name known throughout the music world, thanks to a hit single based on an event from his adolescence.
Years before America’s Woodstock and Monterey Pop concerts, England had the Beaulieu Jazz Festival. Held annually since 1956 in the town of Hampshire, the outdoor gathering offered music as well as a chance for hip young Brits to dress in bizarre outfits and “get wild” away from their own neighborhoods. In July 1961, Rod and some pals snuck onto the fes-
tival grounds and headed for the beer tent. There Stewart met a woman about twice his age. “One thing led to the next, and we ended up nearby on a secluded patch of lawn,” he recalled years later. Rod admitted that his “going all the way” for the first time lasted mere seconds. But that experience, brief as it may have been, would provide his ticket to superstardom a decade later.
Inspired by his introduction to manhood, Stewart eventually filled about 20 notebook pages with a fantasy yarn about a complicated and erratic relationship. He later developed that tale into a story-song about the trials and tribulations of a life shared with an older lady. I feel I’m being used gives way to I love you anyway before the ultimate proclamation I wish I’d never seen your face. Rod and guitarist pal Martin Quittenton created “Maggie May,” the slightly tweaked title being gleaned from “Maggie Mae,” an old Liverpool folk song which
the Beatles had included as a snippet on their Let It Be album. Curiously, Stewart’s multi-million-selling “Maggie May” had almost been left off his Every Picture Tells a Story LP, as the tune had no chorus and no hook, just a bunch of rambling verses. The future smash— recorded in just two takes— was released as the B-side of Rod’s 45 “Reason to Believe,” a Tim Hardin ballad. But disc jockeys soon flipped the single, and seemingly overnight “Maggie May” handed the sandpaper-voiced rock ‘n’ roller his first international winner.
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Retired Teachers to meet Sept. 23 The Lubbock-South Plains Retired Teachers Association is the local unit of Texas Retired Teachers Association. The group meets once a month at the Lubbock Women’s Club, 2020 Broadway, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cost is $18, and reservations are required to navrkal@swbell.net. The Sept. 23 program is on the United Way. Other programs are: Oct. 14 – Fall Conference Nov. 18 – Lubbock Volunteer Center Dec. 16 – Celebrate the Season with Family Jan. 27 – Phishing Scams & Officer Elections Feb. 24 – Preparing Your Home for All Kinds of Weather March 24 – Membership Kick Off April 28 – Scholarship Winners May 26 – Officer Induction Officers are Terri Navrkal, president; Dennis Hargrove, immediate past president; Karen Turner, 1st VP membership; Marjorie Malek-Ahmadi, 2nd VP/PR; Cindy Andrews, secretary; Valerie Addington, treasurer; Elizabeth “Ann” Hilgers, legislative chair; Lynn Stigler, CVS chair; Debbie Cooper, healthy living chair; Bettye Ruth Wilson, I&PS chair; Jesse Garza, member benefits; Eric McKnight, retirement ed. chair; Robert Cooper, foundation representative; Candis Conard, hospitality chair; Elaine Milam, LWC liaison. The group works to promote the professional, economic, intellectual, social, and healthy well-being of Region 17’s retired school employees and their spouses who receive Texas retirement benefits plus retirees from other Texas districts and other states. The group encourages volunteerism in the community, as well as providing advocacy for all public school and higher education retirees.
The goodness of masking 1. Make-up needed on only half of face. 2. No bad breath exchanges. 3. No one sneezing or coughing on you. 4. No one can see food stuck in your teeth. 5. A mask somewhat lessens the 2nd-hand smoke effect. 6. No one knows if you are smiling or frowning. 7. A mask can be a fashion statement. 8. When cold weather sets in, a mask is warm. 9. Guys who don’t want to shave – it’s OK. 10. And maybe, just maybe, we’ll keep someone from getting sick.
Golden Gazette Crossword Puzzle
ACROSS
1. Destiny 5. Monkeys 9. Annual horse race in England 14. Egg-shaped 15. Predict 16. Rock 17. Trundle 18. Leather shorts 20. Sesame plant 21. Given to scratching the ground for food 22. Appetite 24. Smeared 28. Conceal 29. Off-Broadway theater award 31. Fur scarf 32. Crown of the head 33. Antelope 34. Male sheep 35. Think 36. Move to and fro 37. Low in pitch 38. Abstract being 39. Annoy 40. Diplomacy 41. Very skilled person 42. Admirable 43. Republic in the Caribbean 44. Ancient city in S. Egypt 46. Tedium 49. Zealous environmentalist 52. Period of human life 53. Coming before 56. Showing unusual talent 57. Paddled 58. Hawaiian goose 59. Worry 60. Hearth 61. Sledge 62. Soviet news service
DOWN 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 19. 21. 23. 25. 26. 27.
Specialty Shun Capital of Florida Former measure of length Remove by melting Poetry Root of the taro Prophet Feeling shame Shoulder scarf of fur Long-leaved lettuce Single unit Cardinal number Ascending Travel on Call to mind Magical incantation Heat excessively Edible roots
29. Evergreen tree 30. Ruin 32. Blow with the fist 33. Pitcher 35. Flesh 36. Period of the year 37. Small child 39. Go before 40. Inhabitant of Turkey 43. Having a coat 45. Slant 46. The sesame plant 47. Leers 48. Confronts 50. Fish appendages 51. Spool 53. Hawaiian food 54. Hurried 55. Unit of energy 56. Toward the stern Solution on P. 21
Golden Gazette • September 2021 • Page 19
The need for faith and spirituality along the caregiving journey Caregiving can be a fulfilling, loving journey, but it is also one that is often filled with stress and anxiety. Family caregivers may worry how they are physically and financially going to take care of their aging loved one. Older adults worry because their lives are changing, and they don’t want to be a burden to others. In order to find strength and make the most of the caregiving journey, it’s important for family caregivers to find an outlet, said Dr. Lakelyn Hogan, Home Instead gerontologist and caregiver advocate, in a the webinar: Faith’s Role in the Caregiving Journey. “For many people faith is that outlet,” Hogan said. When discussing faith, religion and spirituality, it’s important to note they all speak to individualized beliefs. While many people belong to a faith community and find comfort in that experience, not everyone is religious. However; we all have a spiritual dimension that can be nourished through connections. Just as beliefs are deeply personal, the approach to incorporating these beliefs and activities is as unique as the person. One Husband’s Caregiving Story That was certainly true for devoted husband and father Carlen Maddux, when he became the primary caregiver after his wife’s early
onset Alzheimer’s diagnosis at age 50. For five years, he managed the caregiving responsibilities and found ways to cope. But eventually, the stress took a toll, and he looked to others—including a nun, a minister and a spiritual healer—for advice. After meeting with the healer, what eventually gave the couple peace was a faith and feeling of God’s presence that they found within themselves, said Rick Hamlin, executive editor of Guideposts magazine. “In a course of several days through prayer, he had this incredible vision, and this is an amazing thing, of God’s tent,” Hamlin explained. “There was this tent just covering him and his wife and his family. And feeling that shelter, he held on to it. “He found it was less difficult to do some of those chores with his wife. Whatever it was, that feeling of God’s presence was there. And getting her dressed in the morning, which sometimes could be a source of struggle, instilled confidence and trust that she could share or feel, even though the words weren’t shared.” Just as Maddux’s faith helped him through the dementia caregiving journey, it’s important to note those living with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia may lose the ability to
initiate beloved spiritual activities. Care partners play a key role in supporting a loved ones’ faith and spiritual journey. Spirituality is not dependent on cognition. Memory care expert and author of “The Best Friends Approach to Dementia Care,” David Troxel offers these tips to help find focused time for spiritual activities during the day. How to incorporate faith & spirituality into daily caregiving • Regularly attend or watch a religious service • Share or read prayers and scripture together • Sing or listen to hymns (music can have a dramatic impact for loved ones living with dementia) • Meditate and/or discuss important life events and accomplishments • Spend time outdoors connecting with nature Positive effects of faith and spirituality Whether it’s because we have seen friends and family who have passed or because we have more time to reflect, as we age, our faith and spirituality tend to grow stronger. In fact, in a recent Reli-
gious Landscape Study, 70 percent of adults over age 65 said they believe in God with absolute certainty; the number drops to 51 percent in the 18-29 age group. There are a variety of reasons why spirituality is so important, especially for caregivers and older adults. Slows cognitive decline. In studies, spirituality and religion appear to slow cognitive decline in older adults with dementia, and help people deal with their disease and have a better quality of life. Improves physical health. Studies have found that religious involvement is associated with less heart disease, hypertension, and mortality rates. Helps develop coping strategies. As in Maddux’s case, his
faith was his way of coping with stress and the emotional demands of caregiving and gave him a renewed energy, which also positively affected his wife. Provides a sense of community. Especially for older adults who may feel socially isolated, faith provides them a way to feel connected, whether by physically attending services with others or simply by feeling connected and part of something bigger through prayer. - HomeInstead.com What did mom need to know about dad before she married him? 1. His last name. 2. She had to know his background. Like is he a crook? Does he do drugs? 3. Does he make at least $800 a year? Did he say NO to drugs and YES to chores?
Page 20 • September 2021 • Golden Gazette
About those Social Security Retirement Benefits credits (10 years of work) longer you wait to retire (up to be eligible for retirement to age 70), the higher your benefits. retirement benefit. You can find out more How much will your about future Social Security retirement benefit be? benefits by signing up for Your retirement benefit any Social Security account is based on your average at the Social Security webearnings over your working site, ssa.gov, so that you career. Higher lifetime earncan view your online Social ings result in higher benefits, Security Statement. Your so if you have some years of statement contains a detailed How do you qualify for no earnings or low earnings, record of your earnings, as your benefit amount may be retirement benefits? well as estimates of retireWhen you work and pay lower than if you had worked ment, survivor, and disability Social Security taxes, you steadily. Your age at the time benefits. earn Social Security credits. you start receiving benIf you’re not registered for You can earn up to 4 credits efits also affects your benefit an online account and are not each year. If you were born amount. Although you can yet receiving benefits, you’ll after 1928, you need 40 retire early at age 62, the receive a statement in the mail every year, starting at age 60. You can also use the Retirement Estimator calculator on the Social Security website, as well as other benefit calculators that can help you estimate disability and survivor benefits. Social Security was originally intended to provide older Americans with continuing income after retirement. Today, though the scope of Social Security has been widened to include survivor, disability, and other benefits, retirement benefits are still the cornerstone of the program.
Retiring at full retirement age Your full retirement age depends on the year in which you were born. If you were born on Jan. 1 of any year, refer to the previous year to determine your full retirement age. If you retire at full retirement age, you’ll receive an unreduced retirement benefit.
Retiring early will reduce your benefit You can begin receiving Social Security benefits before your full retirement age, as early as age 62. However,
if you retire early, your So- your benefit will increase by cial Security benefit will be a certain percentage. This less than if you wait until percentage varies depending your full retirement age to on your year of birth. If you begin receiving benefits. were born in 1943 or later, Your retirement benefit your benefit will increase 8 will be reduced by 5/9ths of percent for each year that 1 percent for every month you delay receiving benefits, between your retirement date up until age 70. and your full retirement age, Working past your full up to 36 months, then by retirement age has another 5/12ths of 1 percent thereaf- benefit: It allows you to add ter. For example, if your full years of earnings to your retirement age is 67, you’ll Social Security record. As receive about 30 percent a result, you may receive less if you retire at age 62 a higher benefit when you than if you wait until age 67 do retire, especially if your to retire. This reduction is earnings are higher than in permanent — you won’t be previous years. eligible for Your full retirement age is: a benefit If you were born in: 1943-1954 66 increase 66 and 2 months once you 1955 66 and 4 months reach full 1956 66 and 6 months retirement 1957 1958 66 and 8 months age. 1959 66 and 10 months How67 ever, even 1960 and later though your monthly benefit will be Working may affect your less, you might receive the retirement benefit same or more total lifetime You can work and still benefits as you would have receive Social Security rehad you waited until full retirement benefits, but the tirement age to start collectincome you earn before you ing benefits. That’s because reach full retirement age may even though you’ll receive affect the amount of benefit less per month, you might that you receive. Here’s how: receive benefits over a longer • If you’re under full reperiod of time. tirement age: $1 in benefits Delaying retirement will will be deducted for every $2 in earnings you have above increase your benefit For each month that you the annual limit • In the year you reach delay receiving Social Security retirement benefits full retirement age: $1 in past your full retirement age, benefits will be deducted for (See Retirement, Page 22)
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Be A PArt oF history Donate to the Lubbock Roots Historical Arts Council. The East Lubbock GateWay project is helping re-develop East Lubbock. Donations may be made at any City Bank location. Roots is funded by donations, fundraisers and grants. Shirley Green, executive director of the Roots Historical Arts Council, can be contacted at sagreen3@yahoo.com or 806-535-2475 for more information.
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lot At resthAven Lot at Resthaven near mausoleum. $5,195 value. Make me a reasonable offer. Call 806407-5493. 11/20
Frame repairs, new lenses, new frames and/or adjustments. Serving West Texas since 1977! Midwest optical, 253334th, 806-797-5534 1/21
765-6367
Golden Gazette • September 2021 • Page 21
3 cemetery plots for sale in Seminole. $300 each. Call 432788-7322. 6/21
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Page 22 • September 2021 • Golden Gazette
Retirement benefits (Continued from Page 20)
every $3 you earn over the annual limit (a different limit applies here) until the month you reach full retirement age Once you reach full retirement age, you can work and earn as much income as you want without reducing your Social Security retirement benefit. And keep in mind that if some of your benefits are withheld prior to your full retirement age, you’ll generally receive a higher monthly benefit at full retirement age, because after retirement age the SSA recalculates your benefit every year and gives you credit for those withheld earnings
Retirement benefits for qualified family Even if your spouse has never worked outside your home or in a job covered by Social Security, he or she may be eligible for spousal benefits based on your Social Security earnings record. Other members of your family may also be eligible. Retirement benefits are generally paid to family members who relied on your income for financial support. If you’re receiving retirement benefits, the members of your family who may be eligible for family benefits include: • Your spouse age 62 or 100 years ago everyone owned a horse, and only the rich had cars. Today, everyone has a car, and only the rich have horses. Oh, how the stables have turned.
older, if married at least one year • Your former spouse age 62 or older, if you were married at least 10 years • Your spouse or former spouse at any age, if caring for your child who is under age 16 or disabled • Your unmarried child under age 18 • Your unmarried child under age 19 if a full-time student (through grade 12) or over age 18 and disabled if disability began before age 22 Your eligible family members will receive a monthly benefit that is as much as 50 percent of your benefit. However, the amount that can be paid each month to a family is limited. The total benefit that your family can receive based on your earnings record is about 150 to 180 percent of your full retirement benefit amount. If the total family benefit exceeds this limit, each family member’s benefit will be reduced proportionately. Your benefit won’t be affected.
How do you apply for Social Security Retirement Benefits?
The SSA recommends that you apply three months before you want your benefits to start. To apply, fill out an application on the SSA website, call the SSA at 800-772-1213, or make an appointment at your local SSA office. Source: Zach Holtzman
Don’t throw that out!
5 common items worth more than you think Are there priceless items in your cupboards and closets? The answer could be yes! From priceless paintings to retro comics, you could have more money in your home than you think. Experts at Mental Floss remind readers to find treasure in “collectibles of any kind” and even consider taking a second look at those dusty old toys and sickeningly retro Pyrex casserole dishes your grandmother used to warm up meatloaf in. Those things may just bring in hundreds of dollars. If you are ready to sort the gems from the junk in your home, here is a list of 5 commonly uncommon items worth a second look before they’re tossed in the trash. Vinyl records What’s old is spinning around to make a comeback, especially when it comes to vinyl records. Your vinyl collection could be worth thousands in the right condition. Music historians at loudersound.com say the range of what the records are worth falls in two categories “some have an evergreen value, while other valuable vinyl records fluctuate in price depending on buying trends, band anniversaries, and other notable events, including the death of an artist.” Board games Check your closets and
attics for board games that could give your bank account a boost. Personal finance expert Cynthia Measom mentioned some sets are worth close to $1,000 or more. A still-sealed 1974 anniversary edition of Monopoly was valued just under $2,500, and in 2011 a craftsman created a gold-plated Monopoly board and set valued more than $2 million, according to Smithsonian Magazine. Books and cookbooks Don’t judge your books by the cover. Take a closer look at your book collection to see if it includes valuable items worth more than you expect. Interior design expert John Linden said, “A first-edition copy of James Joyce’s Ulysses, for example, is valued at around $8,000.” If there are vintage cookbooks in the mix with your book collection, they could also be worth more than expected, even if they are well used. Lunch boxes If you still have your daughter or son’s elementary school lunch boxes in the cabinet, keep an eye out for items that may be worth more than you expect. Selfproclaimed history and sci-fi nerd Alex Daniel wrote, very few “items encapsulate the pop culture obsessions of their era better than lunch boxes.” The value on these
small unique time capsules can jump in value over time. Surprising items like “a Jetsons 1963 lunch box can pull in $1,650 these days, while a rare 1954 Superman box can be worth as much as $16,000.” Tools Before you replace your tool set or that of a loved one, check to see if the old set is a classic coveted by collectors. Experts at BestLife.com say “classic tools fetch a pretty impressive price, and that’s especially true of a few particularly high-value items. For example, a Chaplin No. 1 plane recently went for $7,700, while a rare John Deere Wrench (of which just 100 were made) sold for $16,500.” As you clean your attic and closet storage, remember to open old boxes especially those that haven’t been opened from move-to-move. If tackling the attic feels like a daunting task, consider hiring experts like Caring Transitions that can help you clear and declutter your space in addition to finding a happy home for hidden gem valuable items with tools like CTBIDS. - CaringTransitions.com The greatest discovery of my generation is that a human being can alter his life by altering his attitudes. – William James
Golden Gazette • September 2021 • Page 23
Covenant Medical Group cardiologists Dr. Jason Strefling and Dr. Mohammad Otahbachi have moved their clinic to a free-standing location on 21st Street.
2 cardiologists move to new location To make visits easier on patients, Covenant Medical Group cardiologists Dr. Mohammad Otahbachi and Dr. Jason Strefling have moved their clinic out of Covenant Medical Center to a free-standing clinic close by. The new clinic office is on 21st Street between Memphis Avenue and Louisville Avenue. The free-standing clinic will allow for more convenient parking and easier access for patients. Telephone and fax numbers for both physicians will remain the same: Dr. Mohammad Otahbachi, M.D. – phone 806-725-1801, fax 806-723-7535 Dr. Jason Strefling, M.D. – phone 806-725-1801, fax 806725-1922. The remaining Covenant Medical Group cardiologists, Dr. Kyler Barkley, Dr. Marc Levine, Dr. James Moss, Dr. Paul Walter, and Dr. John Zias will remain in the clinic on the 2nd floor of the Heart Center of Covenant Medical Center.
There are so many times when we need our children more than they need us. They have no clue what they truly do for our soul.
Funding by the Newby Family
“Hungry? What to eat? Allison Childress, PhD, RDN, CSSD, LD Asst. Prof. , Texas Tech University
Discussion will address what to eat as we age.
12 noon, Sept. 14
Safety precautions will be in place.
Call 806.743.1217 to make your reservation.
Will be held at 6630 S. Quaker Ave, Suite G, Lubbock.
Page 24 • September 2021 • Golden Gazette
Celebrity Luncheon to honor the best in the community, Sept. 23 The 36th Annual Celebrity Luncheon is set for 11:30 a.m. Sept. 23 at the Lubbock Memorial Civic Center. Reservations are required, and tickets can be purchased at bit.ly/awclbk36thCelebrityLuncheon. The Lubbock Professional Chapter of the Association for Women in Communications hosts the event. The Celebrity Luncheon is an event honoring individuals, groups, and businesses in the community who have made Lubbock and West Texas a better place and who have created positive media attention. AWC Lubbock celebrates their positive achievements and contributions by presenting them with one of four distinguished awards. The 36th Celebrity Luncheon will recognize both the 2020 and 2021 honorees as a result of the cancellation of the previous event due to COVID-19 restrictions. Headliner awards will be presented to Lubbock-Cooper ISD Superintendent, Keith Bryant; Lubbock Police Department Officer, Thomas Thompson; Texas Tech Athletic Department; Texas Tech School of Veterinary Medicine, Lubbock COVID Update Committee; Lubbock Fire Department Lieutenant, Brady Robinette; Texas Tech Biological Threat Research Laboratory. Gold Medal winners for public service will be awarded to Eddy Morelock; Jim and Jere Lynn Burkhart of the Burkhart Center for Autism Research; Kat’s Alley Cats; Unpack Ministries, Lubbock Economic Recovery Taskforce. Sally Post will received the Mary Ann Edwards Professional Communicator Award. The Louise Allen Award will go to Picoso’s Mexican Kitchen. The George Mahon Award and the Beth Pratt Communicator of the Year awards will be announced at the luncheon. Funds raised provide scholarships for members of the Texas Tech student AWC chapter, and support professional development of the AWC professional chapter members.
A Step in Time
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