Printed on recycled paper Volume 29 | Issue 9
PRIME TIME September 2019
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Table of Contents FEATURES 8 10 14 20 23
Ask A Health Care Professional
6 22 28 30
Shannon Wagers
Local Doctor Makes History
Financial Readiness For Retirement 50+ Expo Speaker Bios
Savvy Senior – Choosing A Good Stair Lift
COLUMNS Bugman
Dr. Muraida Herb Doc
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aking time to enjoy the outdoors is a simple way to boost your physical and mental well-being, no matter your age. Whether you venture out to the porch to watch the sunset or lace up your golf shoes for an afternoon on the course, there are
plenty of ways you can take in some fresh air. Going outside generally results in more physical activity than if you were to stay cooped up inside, and it’s an easy way to
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(continued on next page)
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Prime Time Publishing, LLC Home of Prime Time Monthly News Family Caregivers Resource Guide 50+ EXPO
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Seek Outdoor Entertainment (cont.) (continued from previous page)
socialize and interact with others. It also plays an important part in maintaining your vibrancy. Get inspired to spend some quality time outside with these ideas: Take up a hobby. Planting a garden or tending a flower bed is terrific motivation to spend more time outdoors, and you’ll have the bounty of your work to enjoy, as well. Even a box garden designed for a smaller space requires regular care, so you’ll find yourself outdoors on a consistent basis nurturing plants to grow.
keeping your muscles stretched helps maintain mobility. That might mean taking a walk or playing a round of golf. You could gather family or neighbors for a game of croquet or just move outdoors to do your daily stretches. Find a way to blend your daily exercise with the chance to get some fresh air for maximum benefits.
Take in a performance. Outdoor theaters offer numerous forms of entertainment from music concerts to plays. Before shopping for tickets, be sure to consider any discounts you might be able to use. For example, AARP members can find discounts on tickets for a wide range of events.
Go on a trip. The sights and sounds that go along with exploring somewhere new make it easy to enjoy spending time outside. Be sure to make plans for entertainment while you’re on the road, and rather than driving home in the dark or when you’re tired, consider making a hotel reservation through the AARP Travel Center. You might even consider organizing a weekend getaway with a partner or friend who shares your interest in discovering a new destination.
Increase your exercise. Even if you have some physical limits,
Enjoy a meal out. Dining al fresco is a treat when the
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weather cooperates, but you can incorporate a delicious meal as a bonus when you’re out and about even when the weather is less than ideal. You could opt to spend your wait time outdoors, or reward yourself after a walk with a special seafood, Italian or steak dinner. You might even pair the meal with a concert or a show for a truly enjoyable evening away from home. Get creative when you think about how you’ll make more time to spend outdoors and remember that resources exist to assist with planning and saving money along the way. Learn more at aarp.org/ memberbenefits.
Beverly Custer Richard Fagerlund Autumn Gray Jim Miller Dr. Gerard Muraida Dr. Shellie Rosen, D.O.M. Dr. Eugene Sun M.D. Shannon Wagers
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September 2019
The First Gold Rush By Shannon Wagers
N
early everyone has heard of the California gold rush of 1849. It led to the discovery of mind-boggling amounts of the precious yellow metal and laid the foundations of many family fortunes. But the first gold rush in the American West happened right here in the Land of Enchantment, preceding California’s by more than two decades. Tales about legendary cities of gold drew the earliest Spanish explorers to New Mexico in the 16th century. If they expected to find wealth rivaling that of the empires of the Aztecs of Mexico or the Inca of Peru, they were certainly disappointed. There were precious metals here, but many mineral deposits were overlooked, and prospecting was hazardous in outlying areas controlled by indigenous tribes who dealt harshly with intruders. One area where some mining operations did go on was in the
Cerrillos Hills south of Santa Fe, which lie at the northern end of a heavily mineralized belt extending south through the Ortiz and San Pedro mountains. The ancestors of the Pueblo Indians had been digging turquoise out of the Cerrillos Hills for centuries. Spanish colonists continued to mine turquoise (some of which found its way into the crown jewels of Spain) as well as modest amounts of silver, copper and lead. For some reason, the rich gold deposits of the Ortiz
range, a few miles farther south, went unnoticed. The opening of the Santa Fe Trail in the 1820s brought American prospectors into New Mexico for the first time, and within a few years they had discovered placer deposits in the eroded gravels and dry arroyos at the base of the Ortiz Mountains. According to one improbable tale, an ox that had strayed away from a prospector’s camp was later found dead. When the animal’s stomach was cut open to see what it had been eating that might have caused its demise, a large gold nugget was found. A more plausible story is that a recent arrival from Sonora noticed rocks in the area that resembled gold ores he remembered from back home, and upon further investigation he unearthed a few nuggets. However it happened, news of the discovery spread quickly back to the States, and by the spring of 1828, the rush was on. As many as 3,000 gold-seekers flocked to the area, and in 1833, the vein of gold-bearing quartz from which the placer deposits had eroded was located. Various companies filed applications for mining grants. These were quickly approved by the Mexican government, which, unlike the earlier Spanish colonial regime, actively encouraged commerce with the U.S. and welcomed foreign investment. Most of these claims were recognized as valid by the U.S. government after New Mexico was annexed in 1848. The area became known as the Old Placers Mining District. A stamp mill for crushing and refining the ore was set up in the nearby village of Dolores, now a ghost town about four
miles southeast of Madrid. New Mexico’s first railroad, constructed in 1868 with rails shipped in by wagon, was a 1.5-mile narrow-gauge line that brought ore from the diggings to the mill. The yield was more modest than the better-known strikes that followed in California, Colorado and the Klondike, but still significant. By the end of the 19th century, the Old Placers had produced an estimated 100,000 troy ounces of gold. Even more might have been produced, but the lack of available water to operate sluice boxes to wash the flakes of gold from the gravel of the placer deposits hampered extraction efforts. In the 1890s, inventor Thomas A. Edison devised a dry process for separating the gold using static electricity. He came to the Old Placers to try it out. It didn’t work. Gold mining has continued in the Ortiz Mountains with varying degrees of success, its profitability rising and falling with fluctuating gold prices. The lack of water continues to be a problem, and environmental concerns have discouraged the employment of some other methods of extraction, notably the use of cyanide, which was proposed in the 1990s. Today, there’s still a lot of gold in them thar hills just waiting for someone to mine it. But before you grab your pick and shovel and head out to get rich, be aware that the entire range is in private hands and not open to the public. However, a visit to the historic nearby towns of Cerrillos, Madrid and Golden, along the Turquoise Trail (NM Highway 14), also offers an enriching experience.
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September 2019
Ask A Health Care Professional Eugene Sun, M.D., Vice President and Chief Medical Officer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico
O
ur bodies are amazingly intricate, complex mechanisms designed to adapt, survive and thrive in a wide range of environments. All organs in the body have critical physiological functions necessary to maintain life. While all are vital,
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the brain stands above them all, both literally and figuratively. In this month’s issue, I will explore the brain, how it ages and how you can take steps to keep it (and yourself!) healthy and active.
What is the brain? The brain is an organ that weighs about three pounds and consists of more than 100 billion nerves that interconnect with each other
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in trillions of connections called synapses.
What does the brain do for the body? In a few words, almost everything you can think of. The lower brain (brainstem and cerebellum) maintains all basic physiological functions, such as temperature, breathing, circulation, sleep cycles, balance, muscle movement and many others — all without us having to think about those functions. Higher levels of the brain (cortex) allow us to think, speak, read, remember, imagine, smell, hear, compute and all the other myriad abilities that make the human experience unique and wonderful. What happens to the brain as we age? After about age 40, the number of neurons and synapses in the brain begin to decrease, resulting in gradual shrinking of the brain at about 5% per decade. As a result, it becomes more difficult for us to learn new things, perform multiple tasks or functions at the same time (multitasking), and remember things, both recent and longer term. These issues generally occur to all of us as we age, but not to the same extent. For example, studies have shown that up to 20% of 70-yearolds perform as well as 20-yearolds on tests of cognitive ability (I want to be one of those 70-yearolds someday!). In addition to declining cognitive ability and memory, age decreases the speed of our reflexes, as well as overall muscle strength and coordination. The risk of debilitating falls and injuries increases with age. What can I do to maintain my brain’s health and level of functioning? There are several things that you can do. One is to keep learning. Learning helps the nerves in the brain develop new connections and reinforces existing connections. It doesn’t matter what you learn or how you do it. You can read, solve problems in crossword puzzles or word jumbles, play games such as chess and bridge, or even just interact with other people. Good nutrition also helps your brain. Eat plenty of vegetables, fruits, grains, dairy and protein to ensure that your brain has all the
nutrients, vitamins and minerals it needs to thrive. Exercise regularly. This increases blood flow to your body and increases the brain’s use of oxygen. At a minimum, target walking at least three times a week for 30 minutes or more. If you are currently sedentary and have not been exercising at all, check with you doctor prior to starting a regular exercise program. Get adequate sleep with at least seven good hours nightly. During sleep your body and brain have time to recharge and restore. What other things can I do to keep my brain young? If you smoke, stop. In fact, if you use any type of tobacco, stop. Nicotine narrows blood vessels and raises blood pressure and heart rate. Limit use of alcohol. If you have any medical conditions — for example diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol or others — work with your doctor to keep those under the best control that you can. It’s important to do what you can to keep your brain healthy and active so that your brain can take care of you. Here’s to your health! If you have a health question that you would like to be considered in Ask a Health Care Professional, please email AskHealthcareProfessional@ bcsbsnm.com. BCBSNM will select questions that may appear. Questions will not be personally answered. The opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and not necessarily those of BCBSNM. This column is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical care.
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10 September 2019
Local Doctor Makes History Leading U.S. Medical Group, Tackling Gun Violence By Autumn Gray
N
ew Mexico oncologist Barbara McAneny recently made history as president of the American Medical Association from 2018-2019. Not only was she the first New Mexican
and the first oncologist to lead the highly-influential advocacy organization in its 172 years, but the AMA also ratcheted up one of its most controversial stances under her leadership, reaffirming America’s gun violence a national health emergency and adopting a series of no-nonsense gun-related policies.
Albuquerque oncologist Barbara McAneny, 66, is inducted as president of the American Medical Association in June 2018. She was the first New Mexican to hold the prestigious position. Photo credit: AMA staff
McAneny, 66, says she spoke about the issue across the country over the last year. She spoke with Prime Time about it not long after the end of her tenure and
her return to Albuquerque, where she heads the New Mexico Cancer Center/New Mexico Oncology Hematology Consultants. She emphasized that no matter what side of politics you’re on heading into the 2020 election, if you care about health care, you must care about gun control. The AMA is the oldest and largest physician organization in the nation and has played an important role in the development of American health-care policy, from launching a war on smoking in the 1970s to fighting discrimination against AIDS patients in the’80s. It had in 2016 responded to the Orlando, Fla., Pulse nightclub shooting, which killed a record 49 people, by calling firearms violence a health crisis. However, the AMA strengthened its language as physicians took on the National
Rifle Association in a very public battle beginning in late 2018 when the NRA told “anti-gun doctors” to “stay in your lane.” McAneny and the AMA believe that as long as bullets are ending up in patients, gun violence is a medical priority. Since Orlando, there have been 14 mass shootings, two within 24 hours in early August. “We don’t get into whether this is a second amendment issue. We are not lawyers,” McAneny said. “We are doctors seeing these people shot in our ERs, in our intensive care units, and the devastation to human life is overwhelming. “Mass shootings are horrific, but seven kids die every day in this country of gunshots wounds. If we had a virus killing people at that rate, the entire country would be (continued on next page)
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Local Doctor Makes History (cont.) (continued from previous page)
rallying a cry that we need to do something about this.” Nearly 40,000 Americans are killed each year in acts of firearms violence and about 85,000 more are injured, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Guns send nearly 8,000 children to U.S. emergency rooms each year, according to a study in the Journal of the AMA. While New Mexico has been spared a mass shooting, our communities still see gun carnage. “It’s always been front of mind here because we lose a classroom of kids all the time; we just lose them one at a time,” McAneny said, adding that it’s not always death by homicide but also suicide and accidental gun deaths. Just as McAneny became AMA president, the group endorsed bans on assault weapons and on the possession of guns and ammunition by people under 21. It agreed to push for legislation that would allow relatives of suicidal people to seek court-ordered removal of guns from homes. The AMA in January issued written support for a bill that would expand the existing background check system to cover all firearm sales. McAneny says that one of “the most poignant moments” for her during her tenure occurred when a California trauma surgeon stated during testimony on health policy, “’If someone is shot with a single bullet pistol, I can often repair their liver or where they were shot; when someone is shot with an assault rifle, there’s nothing there to sew to anything else.’ “That image is horrific. That’s why we passed the assault rifle ban,” she said. While gun violence’s cost to American lives is known, the price we pay in health care as a result is not. Also not studied is its psychological effect on physicians, nurses and technicians, or on the generation of youth seeing shootings as a routine part of their existence. In fact, there has been little research around gun violence at all since passage of the 1996 Dickey Amendment. While it didn’t ban gun research, its effect
was to prevent studies by outlawing federal spending to either advocate or promote gun control. McAneny says that while she has no data to prove it, the toll of gun violence on health care costs is “enormous.” “We need those numbers and we need to face it head on,” she said. “We are the most expensive health care system on the planet, and we are the only one that has to deal with gun violence. And we have no idea how much it’s costing because they (the CDC) have not been allowed to study it.” According to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, U.S. health care spending grew 3.9 percent in 2017, reaching $3.5 trillion or $10,739 per person. National health spending is projected to grow at an average rate of 5.5 percent per year for 2018-27 and to reach nearly $6 trillion by 2027. “I am afraid - and I spoke on this from the (AMA) podium - I am very afraid for our health care system, that it is not sustainable. We as a nation have to figure out whether we want health care to be an industry and highly profitable for hospitals, health plans and pharma, or whether we want a system that delivers health care to patients, and we’re running out of time to make that decision.” Though McAneny’s AMA term is over, she will continue to play an active role with the organization as immediate past president. She says she is proud to have led an esteemed group that works with U.S. regulatory agencies, helps craft health care laws, works with congressional staff, revamps medical education, addresses chronic disease management, and “touches every physician and therefore every patient in the country.” “We have to recognize that some common sense gun laws will help. … And we also have to combat the culture of hate and racism that seems to be infecting our nation,” she said. “It’s less here in New Mexico because we value our multicultural state, but we are not immune.”
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12 September 2019
Ways To Make The World A Better Place For Seniors
B
y 2050, the senior population (adults age 65 and older) will be more than double that of the world’s youngest citizens, and the number of people living beyond age 80 is expected to triple over the next 30 years. As the aging population increases, some 11.3 million seniors are living alone, according to the Institute on Aging. In addition, women are twice as likely as older men to live by themselves.
Without proper support, seniors may face a wide range of issues including limited mobility, chronic conditions, improper nutrition and feelings of loneliness. For example, older adults can have problems chewing or may take medications which interfere with their appetites. However, research shows lack of companionship may be the biggest challenge. In fact, an AARP survey found 1 in 5 adults over the age of 40 were “socially disconnected,” which can impact health. People who reportedly experienced loneliness and isolation had lower mental well-being scores, and those who were dissatisfied with their level of social engagement were more likely to report a decline in cognitive function, as well.
While anyone can benefit from a kind gesture, seniors are some of the most in-need members in many communities. There is likely a wide range of opportunities to enhance the lives of seniors in your area. Numerous programs and agencies exist to help you determine the best way to make a difference. One example is Ready to Care, an initiative from Home Instead Senior Care that challenges people to complete weekly care missions. Each activity guides members through various ways to give to senior-related causes, learn about the aging crisis and issues impacting seniors, and serve seniors through small actions of kindness. Most care missions are simple acts, such as opening a door, learning about Alzheimer’s or helping with a chore. Each week, a new mission is delivered to participants’ phones via text message.
Small gestures, like these simple acts of kindness, can go a long way toward improving a senior’s day. Physical assistance: Most seniors are eager to retain their independence, but everyday tasks can pose fall risks or require exposure to harsh weather conditions that can be dangerous to older adults. • Offer to bring in the daily newspaper or mail. • Mow their lawn or offer to help with other yardwork. • Lend a hand in caring for pets, such as taking a dog for a walk or helping clean up waste from the yard. • Offer moral support and a sense of physical safety by volunteering to join them on a walk. Social support: Loneliness is common among seniors, especially those who live alone. Show seniors in your area they have a meaningful place in the community and options for companionship. • Offer a friendly wave and say (continued on next page)
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Make The World A Better Place (cont.) (continued from previous page)
hello when you see them out. • Invite them to dinner, either at your home or at a restaurant. • Have your children or kids you know in the area draw pictures or write letters. • Make a date for an afternoon or evening of entertainment, such as cards, a movie or board games. Practical solutions: For various reasons, some seniors may be unable to complete everyday tasks. Offer a helping hand in their daily routines when possible. • Lend your time to take them to run errands. • Deliver baked goods or a homecooked meal to improve access to nourishing foods. • Help arrange for professional assistance and services, such as an audit to ensure homes are safe. To find more ways you can care for the seniors in your community, visit imreadytocare.com. How You Can Help Consider these simple ways you
September 2019
can help the aging population by taking action and learning about issues impacting seniors:
• Lend your voice. Be an advocate for change in public actions and medical research for the aging society. If you’re an expert by experience, share your knowledge about senior-related issues and public policy measures. • Give from your heart. Less than 1% of charitable donations go to organizations that help seniors. Find senior-focused non-profits to give your next charitable donations to, such as one dedicated to raising awareness, inspiring change and accelerating progress in Alzheimer’s care and research. • Get prepared to care. Educate yourself on issues that impact seniors and complete small acts of kindness for seniors in your life. Sign up for weekly care missions and find additional information to better equip yourself to care for seniors at imreadytocare.com. • Give your time. Volunteer with local non-profit organizations that help seniors or offer support related to senior-affiliated issues.
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14 September 2019
Financial Readiness For Retirement By Beverly Custer
W
hen it comes to retirement savings and readiness, the statistics for women compared
to men are alarming. A study by the National Institute on Retirement Security found that women over the age of 65 had an average income 25 percent below that of men of the same age, making them 80 percent more likely to be impoverished. As age increases, so does the disparity. For single and minority women, the disturbing trend worsens. Due to a variety of factors such as the wage gap, divorce, or careers that began later in life due demands of raising a family, women save less than half of what men do, according to a June 2019 article on Forbes.com. However, the future doesn’t have to be a
FOUR HILLS
hardship if women make some decisions now to plan for their retirement readiness.
Holly Strickland, a client services manager at Retirement Extender in Albuquerque, became unexpectedly single in midlife and has developed a personal strategy that will enable her to be financially prepared at retirement. “My own personal plan is to work until at least age 70 and delay filing for Social Security benefits until I reach the full retirement age. This will allow me to ‘double-dip’ and receive Social Security income to add to my savings the last four years of work,” she said. “I will still apply for Medicare benefits when I turn 65 because if you need to at that time but you do not, coverage may be delayed and cost more. Also, if you are divorced and were married for at least 10 years, you may qualify for receiving benefits on your ex-spouse’s record if you meet certain conditions.”
“Taking into consideration that women tend to have a longer life expectancy than men and that my grandparents lived until their late 80s and 90s, I anticipate a similar life expectancy. This means that even if I retire at 70, I should plan on having to rely on retirement savings and Social Security for another 15-20 years.” Anticipating and planning for health-related issues is also practical, said Strickland. She suggests considering a long-term care insurance policy to ensure that if you do get sick or become unable to care for yourself, you will have the care you need and (continued on next page)
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Financial Readiness For Retirement (cont.) (continued from previous page)
the policy to pay for some or most of the cost. Strickland also advises taking advantage of employer-matched IRA/401k salary reduction contributions and to contribute at least the minimum of what your employer does. “That is free money,” she said. However, before you do anything, Tom Crow, president of Crow Financial Advisors in Albuquerque, suggests assessing your current situation and making some calculations. Here are a few tips Crow provides to get you started: • You know what you’re bringing in and spending per month now. Ask yourself, “How is that likely to change in the future and in retirement?” Some expenses might go up (family, medical, travel and food); others might go down (tuition, mortgage, fuel). • Check in often with Social Security to see what your estimated benefit will be, and consider any pensions or annuities to determine how much income in retirement you might be able to count on. Also, consider the difference between that and what you think you’ll need to spend. That’s the amount that will have to be made up by your other retirement savings. • Access online calculators to help you determine your savings goals. Several are available at
no charge and will tell you how much you need to save to reach a specific dollar amount by a certain time. “It really comes down to income vs. outflow and living on a budget with enough margin to allow for emergencies,” he said. Retiring comfortably is a matter of being able to live within your means now. However, nationally respected personal finance expert Suze Orman suggests women take an even more aggressive approach to saving for retirement: “Live below your means but within your needs,” she said in a recent interview with AARP. “Spend what you need, not what you can afford.” For example, if you need a vehicle, she says, take out the least amount of money you’ll need for a loan. She explains that even though you may be able to afford a more expensive car, you’ll have fewer payments and ultimately enjoy life more when you pay it off. She then advises that you continue to drive the car for as long as possible without having a car payment at all. Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help or to ask any professionals you speak with about how they get paid. Registered Investment Advisors are bound by law to act as fiduciaries, said Crow, and are also regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority.
FREE MEMORY ASSESSMENT For more information please contact us at:
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PRIME TIME
16 September 2019
Fall Leaves By Beverly Custer
W
hat better way to welcome the cooler weather and transitioning seasons than to take a drive or hike to see New Mexico’s changing fall leaves. A treasure in the high country, quaking aspens are at their most resplendent for viewing in late September through midOctober. Quaking aspens, as opposed to bigtooth or Korean aspens, get their name from their flat stemmed leaves which “quake” or tremble in the slightest breeze. Gamble oak and other trees, like the netleaf hackberry and mighty
cottonwoods lining our rivers and streams, also add strips of fire and gold to fall’s turquoise skies. If you capture them at the height of their colorful display, then you’re lucky indeed. While it’s difficult to pinpoint the exact times the trees will be at their peak, Gennaro Falco, Santa Fe National Forest Service’s forestry program manager, suggests checking the U.S. Forest Service website, https://www.fs.fed.us/ fallcolors/2018/index.shtml, before planning an outing. It provides the most current information for fall color progression and even has a fall foliage prediction map. “Several factors go into predicting when the foliage is at their peak, including genetic variations among species, a hard frost, and the elevation of wherever you’re planning to go,” says Falco, adding that the highest vistas will begin changing color earlier than at the lower elevations. Here are some popular routes for spectacular viewing:
Fourth of July Canyon on the eastern side of the Manzano Mountains becomes alive with color in the fall when the indigenous bigtooth maple trees are awash in reds, oranges, pinks and yellows. It’s a popular destination not only for viewing the changing leaves but also for camping and hiking. Maple and oak trees line much of the canyon and creek along the trail. Take New Mexico Highway 337 in Tajique, then Forest Road 55, where it
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The Sandia Crest Byway, part of the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway in the Cibola National Forest, is a mile above Albuquerque and two miles above sea level, making it the highest scenic drive in the Southwest. Nestled among the conifers and evergreens on State Road 536 just off of Highway 14, you’ll find beautiful displays of fall color. If you’re up for a moderate hike, the North Sandia Crest Trail beginning along the rim of the Sandia Mountains is purported to hold one of Albuquerque’s best held secrets in autumn: a large secluded grove of golden aspen. However, the drive up to the crest offers equally impressive scenery outside of your car window, as the trembling aspen burst with fiery color amid a backdrop of juniper, fir and spruce.
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is approximately seven miles to the campground. Jemez Mountain Trail Scenic Byway begins just off of Highway 550 and State Road 4 in San Ysidro. The 66-mile route takes travelers through Jemez Pueblo and the Village of Jemez Springs, a road that eventually meanders through the cottonwood-lined Jemez River. Further up the byway toward Los Alamos is the spectacular Valles Calderas, where the best viewing of the golden aspens will be. Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway in the Carson National Forest is an 85-mile loop starting and ending in Taos. It centers around Wheeler Peak, the highest in New Mexico, at just over 13,000 feet. Traveling north from Taos on Highway 522, the three-hour trip (without stops) takes you through Questa, where you’ll head east on Highway 32 to Red River and on to Eagle’s Nest. This is where you’ll find the pinnacle viewing experience as you drive to Angel Fire, then loop back into Taos again. A bit further north, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad offers fall foliage tours September
(continued on next page)
PRIME TIME
September 2019
Fall Leaves (cont.) (continued from previous page)
25-29 out of Chama on the Galloping Goose No. 5, including through Cumbres Pass (elevation of more than 10,000 feet) and Toltec Gorge. Some of the trips cross the Colorado border several times. See https:// cumbrestoltec. com/ for more information. Additionally, many of the ski areas around the state have chairlift rides for viewing the fall splendor. On weekends in September and
during the week of Albuquerque’s natural beauty of the Land of International Balloon Fiesta, Enchantment. You might also want October 5-13, Ski Santa Fe to take along a blanket, choose will be running its fall foliage a comfortable spot on the forest chairlift from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., floor, close your eyes and listen to weather permitting. Tickets can be the sounds of the quaking aspen, purchased for $12 for a one-way described as the most “active” tree trip to the summit for those who in America. prefer to hike back down; roundtrip tickets cost $16. The trip is free for seniors 72 and older, as well as for children under 46 inches tall. There are other events to enjoy at Ski Santa Fe during the season as well, including the Plein Air Painting Festival at the end of September, where A MEDICAL BILLING COMPANY visitors can experience BUILT ON INTEGRITY outdoor painting, music and other festivities. • Affordable for large or small businesses Wherever you go in our national forests this fall, be sure to take your binoculars, canteens, picnic lunch, protein bars, comfortable shoes or hiking boots, and a reliable camera to capture the
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PRIME TIME
18 September 2019
Prime Time 50+ Expo Coming October 16 By Beverly Custer
S
from a variety of senior- and health care-related fields, including inhome health care, dentistry, massage therapy, retirement living, insurance and more.
The 24th Annual Prime Time 50+ Expo Health Fair brought to you by BlueCross BlueShield of New Mexico will be returning to the Embassy Suites near Downtown Albuquerque from 8 a.m.-1:30 p.m. October 16. There, you will have the chance to chat with representatives
“We like to describe the Expo as a health fair and more,” Rivord said. “We have all these vendors offering their services, the community gets to talk with these folks - doctors and many other health care professionals. Health screenings are offered all day, such as blood pressure, glucose, cholesterol and hearing tests. Walgreen’s will be offering free flu shots from 8:30 a.m.-noon on a first-come, firstserved basis.”
ipping drinks, noshing on a burrito and enjoying the rhythms of a renowned musician sounds like a relaxing way to experience some fine local entertainment. How about the opportunity to also win prizes, speak one-on-one with doctors and other health care professionals and browse 70 vendor booths, all at no cost?
David Rivord, publisher of Prime Time Monthly, explains that this long-running event has offered our senior community a chance to participate in and advocate for their health in an informal, convenient venue.
As in years past, the fair is sponsored by BlueCross BlueShield of New Mexico, the New Mexico Cancer Center, Stryker,
OneAlbuquerque Department of Senior Affairs, and the Hearing and Vision Center. Rivord expects 7501,000 people will attend.
the Roger Burns Band, will be performing a variety of music from 12-1 p.m., and prizes will be drawn throughout the event.
The City’s Department of Senior Affairs will again be offering free transportation from Albuquerque’s senior center facilities to the fair, making attending convenient and easy. Additionally, there will be ample free parking at the venue, 1000 Woodward Place NE (Lomas & Interstate 25).
Rivord said that New Mexico is growing the most within its senior population, which makes the health fair a timely and important event.
Attendees can expect to hear local health care professionals give informative talks at breakout speaker sessions. A crowd favorite,
“The original owner of Prime Time publishing started the health fair, and it has just gotten more popular since then.” That was 24 years ago. Rivord can be reached for questions at 880-0470.
Robert Benjamin
~ New Mexico Landscape Series ~ Limited Edition Giclées by Robert Benjamin www.RobertBenjamin.com RobertBenjaminLandscapes@live.com
Meet Robert Benjamin at the 50+ Expo Photo depicts actual Overture resident.
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PRIME TIME
September 2019
24TH ANNU AL
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19
PRIME TIME
20 September 2019
50+ Expo Speaker Biographies Sun received his medical degree from the University of New Mexico School of Medicine. He trained in internal medicine at the hospitals of the University of Pittsburgh and is board certified in internal medicine. He received his master of business administration degree from the University of Washington in Seattle.
Before joining BCBSNM, Sun worked for Kaiser, Regence Blue Shield, PacifiCare, Merck, and Molina Healthcare of New Mexico, among other companies. He is on the board of the American Lung Association in New Mexico and is past president of the Board of Directors at the Roadrunner Food Bank. Additionally, he is a member of the New Mexico Medical Society, the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society and Beta Gamma Sigma Business Honor Society.
Dr. Eugene Sun
Born and raised in Albuquerque, Dr. Eugene Sun has served as vice president and chief medical officer for Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Mexico for seven years.
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Sun is a contributing writer for Prime Time Monthly with his column, Ask a Healthcare Professional.
Kathi Rieger
Kathi Rieger is the founder and owner of Medicare Benefits Advisor LCC, offering Medicare health insurance consultations and enrollment services on a no-fee basis. She has an office in Albuquerque and represents all the locally available Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement and Medicare Prescription Drug plans. Because seniors’ preferences, health issues and resources differ widely, Rieger’s goal is always to “fit the plan to the person,” she says. After a plan has been chosen, Rieger takes care of most of the often-complex paperwork required for enrollment. Rieger studied accounting and finance at Chabot College in California and has continued her professional development with courses at the University of New Mexico and other institutions. Her long-term goals include continuing to assist seniors and families with advice and support as lives and situations change; staying current with changes in the health care market; and serving as a source of support for other advisors, especially those new to the field. Rieger lives in Albuquerque with her husband, Ron. The couple, married for 35 years, have two grown children and a very spoiled dog. Rieger enjoys camping, hiking, reading, volunteering and staying active. Contact Rieger if you’d like to schedule a private, complementary “getacquainted meeting”
about your health insurance needs and concerns, and is available to speak at group events. She conducts free webinars and workshops on Medicare planning throughout the community. Kathi can be reached at Kathi@ medicarenewmexico.com or at 505.871.3300.
Dr. Amyn Alidina – Medical Oncologist
Dr. Alidina has been with NMCC since 2005 and has been practicing in the field for almost 30 years. Dr. (continued on next page)
PRIME TIME
50+ Expo Speaker Biographies (cont.) (continued from previous page)
Alidina’s dedication to helping cancer patients and increasing access to care for all people led him to Tanzania for two years to work as an oncologist at Aga Khan Hospital in Dar es Salaam. Dr. Alidina has also held a variety
of teaching roles through the course of his career, including as a Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University of New Mexico from 2005 through 2014. Dr. Alidina’s presentation will be on “Cancer screenings at every age”
Dr. Pranshu Bansal – Medical Oncologist
Dr. Bansal joined NMCC in 2017 after completing his fellowship in Hematology and Oncology at the University of New Mexico. He has authored multiple articles on the topics of gastrointestinal and lung cancers and has a keen interest in targeted therapy and immunotherapy for lung cancer. As the Clinical Research Director, Dr. Bansal also oversees the clinical trials program.
September 2019
21
Dr. Bansal’s presentation will be on “What are clinical trials?”
Dr. Susan Guo – Radiation Oncologist
Dr. Guo was born in Taipei, Taiwan and moved to Holmdel, New Jersey at the age of seven. She received her BA in French from Columbia College and her MD from the College of Physicians and Surgeons at Columbia University. Dr. Guo completed a transitional year internship and residency in Radiation Oncology at the Cleveland Clinic, where she served as Chief Resident from 2011 through 2012. In her spare time, she enjoys yoga, traveling,
and running 5ks and loves hiking around the state. Dr. Guo’s presentation will be on “NMCC’s non-surgical treatment for skin cancer”
PRIME TIME
22 September 2019
Ask The Bugman Email questions to AskTheBugman.com or call (505)385-2820
H
ere are some tips you can use to control pests without using toxic pesticides: Ants You can repel ants with a wide variety of products, including cinnamon, baking soda, Comet
cleanser, cedar oil, medicated baby powder, Tide, talcum powder, chalk, coffee grounds, borax, garlic, broken egg shells, bone meal, black or red pepper, peppermint, paprika, chili powder and mint leaves. If the ants have a preferred food in your home, such as apple sauce, peanut butter, canned cat food, Karo syrup, jelly or similar products, you can mix in small amounts of boric acid or borax or aspartame. Mix about 2 percent of any of these products in the food. Make sure you keep these baits away from children and pets. If the ants are dying near the baits, you are making it too strong and need to make a fresh batch with less boric acid or borax. If you smoke, always wear plastic gloves when making ant baits or they will sense the tobacco smoke on the baits and not go to it. Ants do not like cigarette or cigar smoke. A good inexpensive and effective commercial bait is Terro Bait. It is made from
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boric acid and is much better than the baits the pest industry uses. Cockroaches There are a number of good baits available for controlling cockroaches. You can put out equal amounts of baking soda and sugar in flat containers and they will take it. Niban Bait is a very good commercial product made from boric acid and is easier to use than homemade mixtures in areas where roaches are very common. While you can’t buy Niban in stores, it is available online at www.pestcontrolsupplies.com. When using Niban, place it under and behind appliances, around hot water heaters, inside lower cabinets, in the garage and other places roaches will hide. One of the best ways to control cockroaches outside is to place several pie pans filled with beer around your home. Roaches love beer and you will find many dead roaches in the pans in the morning. You can also put down some duct tape, sticky side up, in the house or garage, in a location where it won’t get stepped on. Roaches are attracted to the glue and will get stuck on the tape. It will also catch crickets. Earwigs Earwigs are small insects with a distinct pair of pincer-like appendages at the tip of their abdomen. They feed on a variety of living and dead plant and animal material. Normally they stay outside, but occasionally they wander into a home. The best way to keep them out is to make sure your doors close tightly. If doors are problematic, install door sweeps. You can trap a lot of earwigs outside by placing a damp, rolled up newspaper in the yard. The earwigs will crawl into the flaps of the paper at night, and you can dispose of it in the morning.
Spiders To control spiders around your home, control the lighting at night that attracts flying insects, aka their food. Keep trash and rubbish out of your yard. If you have firewood, stack it in a place that gets a lot of sunlight and cover it with black plastic. It will get so hot under there that spiders and other insects / arachnids won’t go in the wood. Seal any cracks or crevices around the house that would allow hunting spiders inside. If your doors do not close tightly, install door sweeps on them. If you find webbing around your
home, sweep it or hose it down often. The spiders will get tired of having their webs destroyed and move someplace else. Make sure your bed isn’t touching the wall. This will make it difficult for spiders to get into bed with you. Don’t leave clothing on the floor. If you do, completely shake it out before putting it on. If you have a stray spider you need to kill, spray it with a mixture of half rubbing alcohol and half water mixed with a little liquid dish soap. That will kill any bugs. I also have a free handbook on non-toxic pest management that is available via email to askthebugman2013@gmail.com.
PRIME TIME
D
ear Savvy Senior, What do I need to do to get Social Security disability benefits? I’m 60 years old and have some health problems that won’t allow me to work, but I’ve read that getting disability benefits is difficult. Laid Up Lenny Dear Lenny, Getting Social Security disability benefits when you’re unable to work can be challenging. Last year, more than 2 million people applied for Social Security disability benefits, but two-thirds of them were denied, because most applicants fail to prove that they’re disabled and can’t work. Here are some steps you can take that can help improve your odds. Get Informed The first thing you need to find out is if your health problem qualifies you for Social Security disability benefits. You generally will be eligible only if you have a health problem that is expected to prevent you from working in your current line of work (or any other line of work that you have been in over the past 15 years) for at least a year or result in death. There is no such thing as a partial disability benefit. If you’re fit enough to work part-time, your application will be denied. You also need not apply if you still are working with the intention of quitting if your application
September 2019
23
How To Get Social Security Disability Benefits When You Can’t Work
is approved, because if you’re working your application will be denied.
Your skill set and age are factors too. Your application will be denied if your work history suggests that you have the skills to perform a less physically demanding job that your disability does not prevent you from doing. To help you determine if you are disabled, visit SSA.gov/ planners/disability/qualify. html and go through the five questions Social Security uses to determine disability. How to Apply If you believe you have a claim, your next step is to gather up your personal, financial and medical information so you can be prepared and organized for the application process. You can apply either online at SSA.gov/applyfordisability or call 800-772-1213 to make an appointment to apply at your local Social Security office, or to set up an appointment for someone to take your claim over the phone. The whole process lasts about an hour. If you schedule an appointment, a “Disability Starter Kit” that will help you get ready for your interview will be mailed to you. If you apply online, the kit is available at SSA.gov/disability/ disability_starter_kits.htm.
It takes three to five months from the initial application to receive either an award or denial of benefits. The only exception is if you have a chronic illness that qualifies you for a “compassionate allowance” (see SSA.gov/ compassionateallowances), which fast tracks cases within weeks.
If Social Security denies your initial application, you can appeal the decision, and you’ll be happy to know that roughly half of all cases that go through a round or two of appeals end with benefits being awarded. But the bad news is with backlog of around 800,000 people currently waiting for a hearing, it can take 12 to 24 months for you to get one. Get Help You can hire a representative to help you with your Social Security disability claim. By law, representatives can charge only 25 percent of past-due benefits up to a maximum of $6,000 if they win your case. It’s probably worth hiring someone at the start of the application process if your disability is something difficult to prove such as chronic pain. If, however, your disability is obvious, it might be worth initially working without a representative to avoid paying the fee. You can always hire a representative later if your
initial application and first appeal are denied. To find a representative, check with the National Organization of Social Security Claimants’ Representatives (NOSSCR. org, 845-682-1881) or National Association of Disability Representatives (NADR.org, 800-747-6131). Or, if you’re lowincome, contact the Legal Services Corporation (LSC.gov/find-legalaid) for free assistance. Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.
PRIME TIME
24 September 2019
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HANDYMAN/YARD/LANDSCAPE Electrician 30 years’ experience. Licensed, Bonded, Insured. Senior rates apply. LIC # 350669 Call Peter @ 505 688-8520 - Visit us at: currentsecurityandelectric.com Handyman - Swamp cooler, winterized, electrical, plumbing, carpentry. Affordable door and window replacement, bath and kitchen remodels. Free estimates. Call 463-4744 HOMEOWNERS HANDYMAN SERVICES Carpentry, decks, doors, electrical, fences, painting, patios, plumbing, porches, rock, sprinklers, tile, windows. Free estimates 505-313-1929 PR Landscaping Lawn care – Tree Trimming Yard Work – Reliable – Honest Call 319-8430 Please leave a message.
HEATING/AC/PLUMBING
Relax on the front porch of this beautiful new 3BR/2Bth Cavco Home located in the Albuquerque Meadows age 55+ Mobile Home Community. Cathedral ceilings accentuate the open floor plan that includes a large living room that flows into the dining room. Located in the front of the home, the kitchen brags of new stainless steel appliances, plenty of cabinet & counter space, and room for a breakfast table. The nice-sized master bedroom has a walk-in closet and a ceiling fan and the master bathroom has double sinks and a walk-in shower. Your overnight visitors will enjoy the nice guest bedrooms and the guest bathroom that has a tub/shower combination. This home comes with a manufacturer’s one-year warranty, tape & textured walls, refrigerated air, and a covered carport. We have three to choose from, so come choose your location! Call Pat or Craig at (505) 821-1991.
Call Us For
Evaporative Cooler Start-ups & Refrigerated Air & Plumbing
Enjoy your morning coffee and views of the mountains on the large front deck of this 2+BR/2Bth home located in the Albuquerque Meadows age 55+ Mobile Home Community. The bright and open floor plan has so much to offer. Enter the large living room that is adorned with clerestory windows and a cathedral “cove” ceiling. The kitchen brags of a walk-in pantry, lots of cabinet and counter Call Us for Cooler Start-Ups and space, a skylight, and a brand-new All appliances, including Conversion to Refrigerated Air dishwasher. the washer & dryer will stay. The dining room is located just off the kitchen and the Seller is leaving a Heating and Air Conditioning pretty dining table and hutch for the new owner. There is a nice sitting Plumbing room off of the master bedroom that could be used as an office or Lic. #034393 a den. The guest bathroom has a www.ANCAE.com tub/shower and a skylight, and the guest bedroom can accommodate a queen-sized bed. The master HELP WANTED bedroom can accommodate a king sized bed and has a large walk-in Now hiring for all shifts. closet, and the master bathroom has Call Home Instead Senior Care if you a walk-in shower. This home comes are looking for meaningful work. Help with irrigated flower beds in front, a us support our community seniors in new roof, a 12x7 shed, a 2 yr. old staying vital and independent! Ask for Kathy or Bernadette at 884-0353 hot water heater, and refrigerated air. for more information and to set up an Call Pat or Craig at (505) 821-1991. interview. Enter the living room of this pretty
ANCAE
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3BR/2Bth home from the large private deck. You will love the cathedral ceilings and skylights of this light and open floor plan. Speakers throughout the house allow you to set the mood with your music. The formal dining room is large enough for your buffet and china hutch, or the breakfast nook can provide an intimate setting for two. The large kitchen provides lots of cabinet and counter space, and features a center island. All appliances including the washer, dryer, GenAire cooktop, refrigerator, and dishwasher will stay. The master bedroom is large enough for a king-sized bed and has a walk-in closet and ceiling fan. The two good-sized guest bedrooms both have walk-in closets. The guest bathroom has a skylight and a tub/ shower combination. The huge master bathroom brags of another closet, a walk-in shower, double sinks, and a dressing table. This home located in the Albuquerque Meadows age 55+ Mobile Home Community is cooled with a Master Cool swamp cooler and the yard is completely fenced for your pet. There are two storage sheds for all your extras. Call Pat or Craig at (505) 821-1991.
2 BEDROOM 2 BATH, OPEN FLOORPLAN! $29,900 4-HILLS LESLIE 505-922-5323
1680 SQ. FT. 3 BEDROOM 2 BATH IN IMMACULATE CONDITION! NEWER WINDOWS AND REFRIGERATED AIR! 4-HILLS JOE 505-550-9187
LANCER 2 BEDROOM 2 BATHS. SOLID HOME, ALL APPLIANCES STAY! 4-HILLS LESLIE 505-922-5323
GREAT LOCATION! 3 BDRM 2 BATH, UPGRADES GALOUR, 2 LIVING AREAS AND A SCREENED IN PORCH! $78,900 4-HILLS JOE 505-550-9187
ROOM FOR RENT Fully furnished room Quiet neighborhood One female only No smoking Application – Background check 3 month lease $415 plus deposit 805 698-5817 Basement Spacious Effiency Clean Fully Furnished $400 per month 505-242-3303
SELL YOUR HOME “We will buy your house, no commission, quick closing, no updates or improvements needed, no realtors no hassles. We also have nice rooms for rent.” 505 234-1150 HOME SERVICES Haircuts For Homebound Call Rose at 505-263-6570 WANTED TO BUY Vintages Tools, fishing, hunting items. Also buying old metal toys, watches, jewelry, military items and all license plates. Please call 505-363-4813 WEIGHT LOSS Drop A Dress Size Now! No Gimmicks! ABQ LIPOLIGHT treatments are non-invasive, targeted fat reduction and body sculpting. We use the ONLY authorized and verified system in NM. AbqLipoLight.com Call Judy 505-710-5377 VOLUNTEERS
The City of Albuquerque Department of Senior Affairs RSVP (Retired Senior Volunteer Program) is recruiting volunteers 55 years of age and older for the following opportunities. For more information call 767-5225.
PRIME TIME
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Classifieds Alzheimer’s Association The Alzheimer’s Association NM Chapter invites those interested to become volunteers. Volunteer positions are varied and can involve clerical work, event participation, health fairs, group facilitators and Helpline counselors. Some positions require background check. Hours of work are flexible to meet the needs of the volunteer and the association. Positions are available Monday thru Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. You have been touched by this disease or know of someone with the disease we would very much like to talk to you. For more information call 767-5225. Benefits Connection Center: Help Seniors and People with Disabilities get the benefits they need Volunteers are needed on an ongoing basis for the Benefits Connection Center. As a volunteer at Adelante’s Benefits Connection Center, you can help seniors and people with disabilities find out what benefits they are eligible to receive. Working in the Center. To volunteer, you must be able to answer calls pleasantly, following a basic script, and perform administrative tasks like keyboarding, printing, and faxing. Training will be provided. You must be able to speak clearly and hear well on the phone. Doing outreach. Several individuals are needed to help with outreach. This important volunteer role would help educate seniors and people with disabilities about the Benefits Connection Center and what it can do to help them apply for benefits for which they may qualify. Come make a difference in the lives of low-income New Mexicans! Volunteer at Adelante’s Benefits Connection Center. Call 505.341.7186 or send an email to Volunteer@ GoAdelante.org Catholic Charities Senior Transportation Service Driver: (Use of your own vehicle is required) Provide transportation for individuals age 60+ to medical appointments, grocery shopping and business office. Volunteer must have a good driving record, patient, courteous, polite, and pleasant. Volunteers are needed any day of the week and weekends are optional. Mileage reimbursement if required. Senior Transportation Ride Coordinator: Answer phones, confirm ride requests and match rider and driver. (Coordinate rides). Enter information into the data base, complete rider intakes over the phone and mail packets.
Volunteer must have good phone etiquette, patient, and be familiar with data entry. You must take an Abuse Awareness training class. 2-3 volunteers are needed 2.5 hours per day, 5 days per week. For more information call 767-5225. CASA (City of Albuquerque Senior Affairs) Kitchen Looking for volunteers to support a state-of-the-art commercial kitchen that prepares food for seniors in the community. Hours are anytime between 4:00a.m. – 12p.m, Monday through Friday. Participate in preparation and distribution of food. Follow proper procedures in handling of food, portion control, sanitation, nutritional requirements and safety procedures. Some food handling experience is preferable; however volunteers will be trained for areas of help where are needed. Most volunteer activities will involve food prep (slicing, dicing, serving, and packaging) and kitchen sanitation (wiping, sweeping, mopping and dish washing). Call the RSVP office at 505-767-5225 for more information. The Foster Grandparent Program (FGP) Advisory Council Needs members to join its efforts in promoting awareness and educating the community about FGP and senior issues. Council members advocate on behalf of FGP volunteers, evaluate the Program’s effectiveness, and assist in the recognition of Foster Grandparents by raising funds and in-kind resources. The Council currently meets once a month at the Barelas Senior Center. For more information call 767-6412. Foster Grandparent Program (FGP) is looking for volunteers age 55 and older who are interested in making a difference in a child’s life. Foster Grandparent volunteers must be willing to serve an average of 20 hours per week and must be able to pass a background check, physical, and tuberculosis test. Foster Grandparent volunteers serve one-on-one with children, working with them to build their social and emotional development as well as help improve their literacy skills. Volunteers receive mileage reimbursement, supplemental liability insurance, meals while on duty, pre-service and monthly trainings, and recognition throughout the year. Volunteers can also receive a small stipend if they meet the income guidelines. Call 764-6412 for more information and to apply today. (continued on next page)
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CROSSWORD PUZZLE ACROSS 1. Written slander 6. Agreement 10. Wood trimmer 14. Speak to a crowd 15. Repeat 16. Norm’s order on “Cheers” 17. Pear varieties 18. Alvin, Theodore & Simon 20. Suffix for insist or consist 21. Murder 23. First name in cosmetics 24. Unkind 25. Valley 27. Consideration 30. Harbor bird 31. Shake back and forth 34. Son of Seth 35. Small part for a big star 36. See 2 Down 37. Capital city 41. Poet’s contraction 42. Before dawn 43. Crooked 44. Endeavor 45. Preceding periods 46. Ends prematurely 48. Small bills 49. Extended family 50. Portion 53. Unruly heads of hair 54. Small child 57. Fare collector 60. Free of extra words 62. “Zip-__-Doo-Dah” 63. 100 centesimos 64. Not smooth 65. Boxer Max 66. Flat-bottomed ship 67. Full DOWN 1. Ear part 1
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PRIME TIME
26 September 2019
Classifieds Department of Senior Affairs Home Services is looking for volunteers to assist with yard work, minor home repairs, painting, building of wheel chair ramps and modified steps. Experience in minor home repairs and yard cleaning the use of yard tools, shovels, rakes and painting preferred but not required. Days/hours are open depending on volunteer. Time commitment: M-F 7:30-3:00. On the job training will be provided. Meals on Wheels Of Albuquerque Looking to fill three volunteer positions: Each position only requires volunteering your time one day per week, Monday – Friday, Driver: Deliver meals to hungry neighbors in our community (10:30 a.m.-1 p.m.). Use of personal vehicle is required. Site Coordinator: Liaison between Staff and Drivers at one of 4 pickup locations (9:45 a.m.- 1 p.m.) Kitchen Volunteer: Assist in cupping salads/desserts (7 a.m.-9 a.m.) or plating meals (9 a.m.-10 a.m.). For more information, call 505-767-5225 Ombudsman Program Ombudsmen are advocates and problem solvers for residents in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Please apply if you are looking for a rewarding experience that makes a difference in the lives of the
elderly. Time commitment: 3 hours per week, any day Monday-Friday. For more information call 767-5225. Ronald McDonald Family Rooms at Presbyterian and UNM Hospitals The Ronald McDonald Family Rooms at Presbyterian and UNM hospitals offer a place for parents to rest and regroup right at the hospital, just moments away from their sick child. The Family Rooms are open seven days a week and are staffed by hospital volunteers. The Family room volunteers greet families, maintain visitor data, stock food, drinks, and help families with their needs. Volunteers are asked to work one, three hour shift per week. The shift times vary slightly at each hospital and are between the hours of 9:00 a.m.– 9:00 p.m. Please call 505-767-5225 for more information. Shalom House: David Specter Shalom House offers a complete package of senior living and care services. Residents are independent seniors who need a little help sometimes. Shalom house is looking for a volunteer to help serve meals on Thursday’s from 11a.m.-1p.m. Duties would include checking in meals from delivery source, setting up the meal site, serving meals and calling in the meals for the next day. Please call 505-767-5225 for more information.
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September 5 ¡HAH! Happy Arte Hour, at National Hispanic Cultural Center, 5:30 p.m. Enjoy creative fun in a relaxed, artistic social setting. The suggested donation is $5. Call Elena Baca, 246-2261; visit nhccnm.org.
Calendar ART September 21 Craft Fair September 21, 2019 - 9-3 Admission – FREE 10th Annual Jubilee in Los Lunas – West on Hwy 6 off I-25 Various artists, bake sale, plant sale, and a raffle from our local businesses. Proceeds will be donated for a scholarship fund to UNM Valencia and to the Valencia County Animal Shelter.
COMMUNITY EVENTS Genealogy Conference with Julie Miller on the U.S. National Archives. Saturday, September 28, 2019, a full day presentation concerning the research available from the Archives, including Passenger Lists. Cost is $30 to $35. Preregistration required. Check our website for more September - 2019 New Mexico Health Network - If you are a business or organization looking to market
Silver Horizons - Silver Helping Seniors: Every month, Silver Horizons partners with the City of Albuquerque to provide free groceries to over 3,500 seniors, and to about 1,200 grandchildren many of these seniors are raising. Together, we are making a big, positive difference in the lives of so many of our elderly. But we can’t help these struggling seniors without volunteers. Opportunities to help include volunteering in Silver Horizons’ food warehouse, distributing food and helping seniors shop at food markets, and joining our volunteer staff at Silver Horizons’ thrift store. Please call 767-5225 to learn more. Storehouse New Mexico: Support New Mexico’s largest food pantry. Storehouse provides FREE food to people who are struggling. Customers select their own food once a calendar month. Storehouse is a private pantry, not a government agency. Changes in food supply/ donations result in changes in food service. Volunteer hours include Wednesday through Friday from 8a.m.-4p.m. Please call 505-767-5225 for more information. Mileage reimbursement is available to RSVP volunteers. RSVP is part of Senior Corps and is administered by the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS). The purpose of RSVP is to recruit and meet like minded people and business owners who provide a service or products for New Mexico’s 50+ demographic then step right up. The New Mexico Health Network is New Mexico’s newest networking organization designed specifically for you to mix and mingle with others face to face. Get to know those that help to better shape our aging population. No membership fees so come one call all. We meet on the third Thursday of every month in Albuquerque. For more information on our next meet up in September call Joe Herrera at 505-933-2118 Sundays, Through October Rail Yards Market, 777 1st Street SW, Sundays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Featuring produce, food, art, music and community from local artisans, growers, and musicians. Admission is free. Visit railyardsmarket.org.
senior volunteers into public, government and non-profit organizations to meet community needs. For information on these and more volunteer opportunities call 767-5225. Road Runner Food BankHealthy Food Center (HFC): HFC is a medical referral food pantry. People experiencing both food insecurity and a nutrition related chronic condition are screened and referred to HFC. Clients are then able to visit the pantry once a week to select fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy, protein and other healthy items Volunteers are needed Monday thru Saturday for various positions including Front Desk, Checkout, and Stocking. Shift hours vary. Please call 505-7675225 for more information. Los Volcanes Fitness Center: Looking for a volunteer to serve on Saturdays between the hours of 8am to 4pm for 2 to 4 hours based on need. Duties would include: Scanning members as they enter the facility to workout, help answering member questions, giving a tour of the facility to interested members and answering phones. Additional assistance may be required by staff when busy and things arise. For more information, call 505-767-5255. Rate - $1 per word, $10 minimum Box Border - Additional $10 Bold First Line - Additional $5 Photo - Additional $5 Call 880-0470
Sundays, Through October 27 Mile-Hi Farmers’ Market, at 2000 Alvarado Drive NE, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Visit farmersmarketsnm.org/ markets/mile-hi-farmers-market. Saturdays, Through November 2 Downtown Growers’ Market, every Saturday at Robinson Park, Central & 8th Avenue, 8 a.m.-noon. Yoga (all skill levels), 9-9:45 a.m. Featuring fruits and veggies, food artisans, and a variety of artists, live local music, and more. Visit downtowngrowers.org. Sundays, Through November 3 Corrales Growers’ Market, Sundays, 500 Jones Road, Corrales, south of the Post Office, 9 a.m.-noon. Shop for seasonal produce while enjoying local musicians, honey, bread, cheese, eggs, preserves and meat, and more. Visit corralesgrowersmarket.com.
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Calendar Through November 9 Los Ranchos Growers’ Market & Art Market, 6718 Rio Grande Blvd NW, Los Ranchos, Saturdays, 7 a.m.-noon. Shop for local produce, plants, eggs, jams/jellies, pastries, honey, burritos, coffee, and unique products handcrafted by New Mexico artists. Visit losranchosgrowersmarket.com. September 6 6th Annual Barelas Fiesta, at 801 Barelas Rd SW, Barelas Park (in between the Senior Center and Community Center), 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Featuring food, Car show, flu shots, kids activities, door prizes and more. For those 50 years plus, visit the Barelas Senior Center and sign up membership which includes breakfast, gardening, fitness classes, bingo, trips, dances, arts & crafts and more. Memberships are $20 and include participation at all City of Albuquerque Senior & Multigenerational Centers. Call 311; cabq.gov/seniors/events/6thannual-barelas-fiesta. September 5-15 2019 New Mexico State Fair, EXPO New Mexico: Home of the State Fair, 300 San Pedro Drive N.E., Sunday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Featuring PRCA rodeo and performances by nationally-known country recording stars, plus Indian and Spanish villages, art, agriculture, animals, entertainment, food, carnival rides, exhibits and shopping. Admission is adults, $10; seniors (65 plus) and kids (6-11), $7; children 5 & under, free. Call 222-9700, visit statefair.exponm.com. September 10 Free Legal Advice for Veterans from the VA and the State Bar of New Mexico Employment, Family Law, Landlord-Tenant, and much
September 2019
more, at New Mexico Veterans Memorial, 1100 Louisiana Blvd. SE, 8:30-10:30 a.m. Admission is free. Call 256-2042. September 13, 14, 15 PetSmart National Adoption Event – The City of Albuquerque’s Animal Welfare Department with PetSmart Stores and PetSmart Charities, will participate in the National Adoption Weekend. Animals will be available for adoption at two locations, PetSmart Everyday Adoption Center, 350 Eubank Blvd. NE, and 2100 Louisiana Blvd. NE (Winrock), Friday & Saturday, 10:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m.; Sunday, 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Adoption Fee is $10 (onsite only). Call 311; visit cabq.gov/pets, then click on animal welfare events. September 14 Salud y Sabor Celebrates Perú: Contemporanio, at the National Hispanic Cultural Center, 1701 Fourth Street SW, 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. A free day of food, art activities, storytelling, live music aimed at providing families with an opportunity to connect around nutrition, cooking, healthy lifestyles, culture and more. Call 246-2261; visit nhccnm.org. September 19 YogaZo at the Albuquerque Museum, 2000 Mountain Road NW, 6:30 p.m. YogaZo is a Mobile Yoga Studio that focuses on yoga classes for everyone, whether it’s your first go at yoga or you are a seasoned practitioner. Admission is free. Call 311; visit cabq.gov/yogazo-august or yogazoabq.com. September 26 NHCC Book Club, at the National Hispanic Cultural Center, 1701 Fourth Street SW, 5:30 p.m. The NHCC Book Club meets once a month to talk about that month’s selected book. Book for September: The House of Broken Angels (2018) by Luis Alberto Urream. Members who purchase their books through Bookworks get a 10% discount. To join the NHCC Book Club, register online at nhccnm.org or call 246-2261.
September 28-29 Harvest Festival at Casa San Ysidro, at Casa San Ysidro, 973 Old Church Road, Corrales, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Featuring the state’s finest artists with examples of retablos, bultos, incrusted straw crafts, tinwork, pottery, colchas, and jewelry. Casa will join with Corrales neighbors in a free event to celebrate the fall harvest. Call 311; visit cabq.gov/events. September 28 Saturdays, September 28, October 12, 26; November 9, 23; December 14 CNM Ethics and Fundamentals of Guardianship & Conservatorship CNM Workforce Training Center 5600 Eagle Rock Ave, NE, Albuquerque, NM Training for guardians, conservators and interested others. CEU’s. Instruction covers related law, medicine, behavioral health, biomedical ethics, and guardianship/ conservatorship practice. Course info and registration link: ethicsinbusinessnm.com/ continuing-ed November 29 MANZANO DEL SOL ANNUAL HOLIDAY BAZAAR 5201 Roma NE/256-6222 Friday, November 29/10-3 Tables still available/no charge
DANCE September Learn Salsa, Salsa Rhythm and Timing and more, at Hiland Dance Studio, 130 Jackson NE, Suite A. Admission is $8 for 16 Class Card. Call 268-1558; check the website for times and more information, hilandstudio.com.
September 3, 10, 17, 24 Tuesdays: ¡Baile! Rueda de Casino, at National Hispanic Cultural Center, 1701 Fourth Street SW, beginners 6-7 p.m., intermediate 7-8 p.m. Admission $5-$10, (pay what you can). Call 246-2261; visit nhccnm.org.
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MUSIC September 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Sunday Chatter, at Las Puertas, 1512 1st Street NW. Chatter weaves together traditional and contemporary classical music with programs that include a reading by the poet/speaker. Admission is $5-$15. Visit Chatterabq.org. September 14 Moonrise Concert: Stray Dawgs, at Open Space Visitor Center, 6500 Coors Blvd NW, 5-9 p.m. Featuring Dusty Desert Bluegrass, family-friendly event. Bring a picnic or enjoy food from a local food truck. Admission is free. Call 311; visit cabq.gov/events.
MUSEUMS September 6 First Friday Fractals, at The New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science, 1801 Mountain Road NW, 6 p.m. Explore the world of fractals in this award-winning planetarium show. Admission is $5-$10. Call 841-2800; visit nmnaturalhistory.org. September 6 Free Friday! Free admission for all on the first Friday of every month at the Balloon Museum, 9201 Balloon Museum Drive, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Explore the history, science, sport, and art of ballooning and other innovative forms of flight. Call 768-6020; visit balloonmuseum.com.
THEATRE September 27–October 6 Sandia Performing Arts Company presents the world premiere of Rosalie’s Magic Rocks, a tale of how life changes for an enterprising young Latina, at National Hispanic Cultural Center, 1701 Fourth Street SW, Friday & Saturday, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m. Admission is $20 with $2 discount for seniors, students, and NHCC members; $12 for children 12 and under. Call 246-2261; visit nhccnm.org.
PRIME TIME
28 September 2019
Screening For Seniors
Dr. Gerard Muraida
The Doc Is In Dr. Muraida is a Hospice and Palliative Care Specialist.
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verywhere I turn, I see discounts and specials aimed at attracting seniors to sample the wares. Medicine is not excluded. Health screening offerings also abound. But are all these screenings and recommendations necessary? The National Institute of Health recommends that seniors exercise L O B E
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regularly. Moderate intensity of aerobic activity totaling 150 minutes or more each week is the goal. Last month I spoke of the benefits of dancing. Don’t forget about walking, cycling or a spin class, and even light gardening or yard work. If weight training is desired, low weight with more repetitions is best for muscle tone and endurance. The old adage, “You can’t outexercise your diet” is very true. A healthful diet includes fruits and vegetables, lean meats such as seafood and poultry, minimal dairy, legumes, nuts, seeds and healthful fats. Try to eliminate sugar-sweetened beverages, refined sugars and sugar substitutes. If you are a vegetarian or vegan, be sure to eat adequate amounts of plant-based proteins. As we age, our immune system ages as well. This means that to protect our bodies, we must bolster our defense mechanisms. Vaccines are a good way to do this. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has several recommendations for older adults:
A STORY OF AMERICA, ONE SONG AT A TIME.
BEGINS SUN SEPT 15 7pm KNME 5.1 nmpbs.org
• An annual flu shot is in order, in addition to a tetanus booster every 10 years. • If you regularly come into contact with a newborn, ask your health care professional whether a Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) is necessary. • Pneumonia vaccines are quite effective in limiting or preventing certain types of pneumonia. Two pneumonia vaccines, one year apart, for everyone 65 and older are recommended. The CDC recommends getting PCV13 (Prevnar) first, followed by PPSV23 (Pneumovax). • Most of us had chicken pox as children and therefore are at risk for a recurrence of the dormant virus as shingles. Two doses of the shingles vaccine, Shingrix, separated by two to six months, for everyone 50 and older is recommended. You should get this vaccine series even if you’ve had shingles before or have had the older version of the shingles vaccine, Zostavax, which isn’t as effective as Shingrix.
Now for the trickier part. Screening tests are important to help prevent new chronic diseases from arising or for early detection. However, these tests are age-sensitive and depend upon your personal health history for appropriateness. The organization that produces guidelines for doctors to follow is called the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force. It recommends: • A blood pressure test at least every year. • A cholesterol test performed every three to five years depending on the results. • A type 2 diabetes test every three years if you’re overweight or obese and between ages 40 and 70. Family risk factors may dictate more frequent screening. • A one-time ultrasound screening for aortic abdominal aneurysm, if you’re a man between ages 65 and 75 and if you’ve ever smoked. • A bone density test for women, first at age 65 and then in later years depending up on your results and your healthcare provider’s recommendations. Men should consider beginning bone density screening at age 80. • Screening for Hepatitis C, HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. Cancer Screenings Cancer screening can be confusing. Sorting through your personal risk factors in a conversation with your health care provider can help make decisions clearer. In general, breast
cancer screening recommendations vary from every one to two years up to age 75. After that age, continued screening is a decision made by you and your provider. Most women can stop regular cervical cancer screening after age 65. However, if you have certain risk factors, including history of treatment for a high-risk precancerous lesion, you may need to keep screening. For colorectal cancer screening, several options exist, including a colonoscopy every 10 years, a stool test every year, sigmoidoscopy every five years with a stool test every three years, and more. Most people should stop colorectal cancer screening at age 75. In terms of prostate cancer screening, consensus has been reached between the American Urologic Association and the USPSTF. Both organizations recommend against performing all routine prostate-specific antigen (PSA)-based screening for prostate cancer, as well as all screening in men older than 70, men younger than 40 and average-risk men ages 40-54. The USPSTF recommends against prostate cancer screening for men 70 and older. Even for men younger than that, screening may offer little benefit, so talk with your doctor about whether getting tested is right for you. Mental health screening should always be at the forefront. Be sure that any signs of depression, memory impairment, alcohol excess, partner abuse or tobacco use are investigated. If you smoke, try to quit. Seek help from your health care provider. Be sure that a home safety evaluation is conducted. Fall prevention is key to limiting accidents in the home. A full annual skin survey should be performed, including on the feet. An annual thorough dental examination and routine dental cleaning should also be conducted one to two times per year. Always check with your health care provider before changing medications, starting supplements or beginning new exercise regimens. Here’s to your health!
PRIME TIME
September 2019
It’s easy to grow a lasting legacy with The Education Plan. Be a part of the educational paths your loved ones choose. You’ve invested much of your life growing your family, so help ensure that your investment continues into the future, with The Education Plan. With benefits like easy consolidation, tax deductibility and contributions for legacy and estate planning, this 529 savings plan is the perfect answer to preparing for the future.
Take 15 minutes to plan for their future at TheEducationPlan.com The Plan is offered by the Education Trust Board of New Mexico. Investors should consider before investing whether their or their designated beneficiary’s home state offers any state tax or other benefits that are only available for investment in such state’s qualified tuition program, such as financial aid, scholarship funds, and protection from creditors and consult a tax advisor. Tax benefits are subject to certain restrictions. Not FDIC insured nor guaranteed and may lose value. Carefully consider Plan investment objectives, charges, fees, expenses and risks, including loss of principal. Plan documents are available at www.TheEducationPlan.com and contain this and other information. Read them carefully before investing. ©2019 Oppenheimer Funds Distributor, Inc., distributor of the Plan. EP1111.379.0519
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30 September 2019
Back To School For Taste Buds: Choosing Seasons Over Salts
Shellie Rosen, DOM
Herb Doc
Shellie Rosen is a Doctor of Oriental Medicine. She can be reached via her website at Bodyvolve.com
The American Heart Association warns that in the U.S., more than 40 percent of African Americans have high blood pressure (among the highest in the world). Saliva protein imbalances and hedonic desensitization from consistent overuse can lead to over-salting foods. The Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry describes a connection between sensitivity in taste buds and specific proteins in saliva. As food has become increasingly industrialized and mass-produced, salt has offered companies a low-cost, high-reward choice to stabilize products and increase flavor.
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eplacing salt with herb blends can increase nutrition and food satisfaction, and lower blood pressure. Herb blends are packed full of flavor and can win the love of even the most addicted salt fans. According to the American Heart Association, Americans consume more than double the amount of sodium necessary – 3,400 mg vs. the recommended 1,500 mg per day. Processed foods, prepared beverages and snacks are often heavily laden with sodium from salt. Sodium is essential for survival and an incredible nutrient for good health, but in excessive amounts, it can be life-threatening. The most common adverse side effect from too much dietary sodium is high blood pressure.
Behavior change is the No. 1 way to deal with sodium-related high blood pressure, even when genetics is a factor. Begin a low sodium regimen by first choosing meats that have not been injected with sodium solution.
DO YOU GET IT?
The food industry’s lack of culinary spices has, in part, led to a growing number of individuals developing sodium related high blood pressure, causing many high risk (and deadly) health factors. Using herb blends in place of salt creates dynamic flavor profiles with no extra effort. By merely considering herbal blends in the kitchen, an individual could cut their sodium intake without sacrificing flavor.
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Be conscious of high salt levels in condiments (dressings, sauces, and pickled foods especially), and choose products with “no salt added” labels whenever possible. Individuals who take medications with high levels of sodium may especially want to minimize or eliminate dietary sodium.
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The AHA notes that sodium consumption is 65 percent from store-bought foods, 25 percent from eating out and 10 percent from home cooking. Make changes where you can, and replace salt by sprinkling herb blends into eggs, sandwiches, soups, meats, fish, pasta, salads, French fries, and popcorn whenever possible. Bragg Organic Sprinkle is a popular organic option. It contains rosemary, onion, garlic, thyme, red bell pepper, carrot, tomato, black pepper, basil, Bragg organic extra virgin olive oil, parsley, tarragon, lemon peel, orange peel, Bragg organic apple cider vinegar, celery seed, dill seed, oregano, sage, ginger, coriander, bay leaf, turmeric. Take taste buds back to
school and re-educate them on what food is supposed to taste like when the one-note flavor of salt isn’t hijacking it. Get creative and enjoy an abundantly blessed season of new flavors. Dr. Shellie L. Rosen, DOM, L.Ac. Feeling Adventurous? Make Your Own Blend: • 2 tablespoons dried oregano • 2 tablespoons dried basil • 1 tablespoon dried rosemary • 1 tablespoon dried thyme • 1 tablespoon dried marjoram • 1 tablespoon dried sage • 1 tablespoon garlic powder • 1 tablespoon onion powder • 1 tablespoon black pepper • 1 tablespoon parsley
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