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Silver Magazine April Issue

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

F o r A d v e r t i s i n g c o n t a c t G e n e @ 8 0 6 - 2 3 1 - 0 5 6 2

President Gene Lara806-231-0562

Editor Camey Maldonado806-231-9822

Sales Eric MuehlhausenShana OrtegaOliva Herrera

Contact Information806-231-0562806-367-9804

6 - Thrift Store Shopping 8 - Books, Books, Books 12 - Help for Heartburn14 - Anti-Aging Diet16 - Money Savings18 - Computer Shopping20 - Cures for Fido

April 2010

April is Organ Donation Month and this is something I feel whole-heartedly about. I want to share with you my views on organ

donation, in the hope that you will take them on board and give someone the ultimate gift after you have left this earth - the gift of life.

Today in the US there are at least 79,000 patients on the transplant waiting list. And another three thousand a month are added to this total each year. Not a lot you may say when the population is close to three hundred million, but now add twenty to thirty family and friends to each patient, and the number increases vastly.

Every day between 16 and 17 people die whilst waiting for a transplant. Again you may say not a lot but what if that 16th or 17th person is your family member? This is where you can help. By donating your

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

So, how can you help? All you have to do is get in touch with your local doctor and he will tell you all you need to know. You fill out one form, and receive a card; it really is that easy. Then, once you have passed away in many years to come, your organs will be removed and will give somebody else the chance of life.

After a transplant of a vital organ, the average survival rate is over 80%. That is a massive increase from the 20% that would live without the surgery. If you donate your organs you could possibly save the lives of 50 people. To me the gift of life is the most amazing gift anybody can give. This is why I have chosen to be an organ donor.

SilverMagazine

Camey

Are you creative? Love decorating? Into saving a buck? And love the thrill of the hunt, too? Then thrift shop decorating is for you!

Thrift shop decorating is FUN!

Let's face it: Whether we're talking flea markets, garage sales, thrift shops or estate sales, everyone loves a bargain. Add in the current economy, and thrift shopping bargains become even more appealing. You might find a wall mirror for $10... a table for $35... an old trunk for $65. Now, take bargain shop-ping to the next level by incorporating the item into your home with some cheap, yet chic decorating touches.

Use your creative eye Thrift shop decorating requires looking at items from a whole different perspective. Use your creative mind's eye to visualize the hidden potential of the item. How would it look refinished? Painted? With the legs cut down? Can it be a planter or a wall decoration? Will it look great in the living room beside the sofa or on your back patio near the door? Train your eye to see what it can be, rather than what it is. Then, assess the estimated cost of supplies for repair and your creative work to determine if the result will still be worth it.

Thrift shop items with potential

Tables -- They come in all styles and sizes. Have some fun with one. A little paint or a refinishing can work wonders. Cut down the legs of a tall table and make a coffee table. Love the legs, but the top is a mess? Cover the top in decorative tiles, or decoupage it to match your decor and protect it with glass. Now, show it off in a special place in your home.

Containers -- Jars, vases, baskets, boxes... They're all fun. Use the container the way it is or paint it, add a pretty ribbon and voila! You have attractive container for an interesting silk flower arrangement that will look beautiful anywhere.

Picture frames -- Frames are always smokin' deals at thrift shops, garage sales and flea markets. They're usually dusty with an ugly picture inside. A blink of your creative eye sees the frame cleaned up, painted and with some pretty pressed flowers under glass. Not bad for a frame that may have cost only $5!

Cheap and Chic

Lamps -- The poor thing looks absolutely beastly with its tattered and stained lampshade! But the base is the right color and is kind of "funky." Give that lamp new life and some personality with an inexpen-sive lampshade from Target or Walmart. It will look perfect on that bargain table you just refinished and placed behind the sofa.

Wrought iron -- Once in a while, you may come across an interesting piece of wrought iron with no particular function. Clean it up. Paint it. There's a wall somewhere in your home begging for a splash of iron art!

Mirrors -- Table mirrors, wall mirrors, or floor mirrors -- who doesn't love a mirror! And they do so much to brighten up our homes. If you're lucky, you'll love the mirror just as it is. Otherwise, use your magic wand to add shells, dried flowers, glass tiles or whatever creativity you can dream up.

Chairs -- Find that

one special chair, stationary or rocker, that "speaks" to you. Sit in it and bond with it. Then, take it home and create your masterpiece. Colorful chair cushions and covers can help give the chair a new look and are available at local department stores at reasonable prices.

Unique furniture pieces -- A rolltop desk, glass cabinet or old sewing machine table can be refreshed and brought back to life as a lovely focal point to any room. Don't let these special finds pass you by.

Additional room accents -- Old steamer trunks, three-panel room dividers, Oriental rugs, coat racks, and ceramic planters are only some of the many unique rooms accents to catch your creative eye while thrift shopping. Use your talents to visualize their transformation into cheap, yet chic accents to your home.

The thrill of the hunt It's a jungle out there! All the big cats stalk their prey (of tagged items), come in for the kill (on the prime choices), pounce (to be first to grab it) and then drag the prize home for the family to enjoy. Ahhh, the thrill of the hunt! Ahhh, the satisfaction of thrift shop decorating! Go ahead... Let the fun begin.

Call 231-9822 for details

If your bookshelf has more than a year's worth of dust accumulated on the top, it may be time to consider giving up part of your collection. Saying goodbye to some of the classics may be too difficult but if you've got a series of books that you're looking to recycle, consider one of the following suggestions to give your used books a second lease on life.

Spread the loveWe all know that selling your old books for cold cash is a great way to make some extra change, but why not add a little spring in the next owner's step with an inspirational note? Instead of letting your old paperbacks collect dust on your bookshelf, pen a little letter of encouragement on the inside cover and sell it to your local used bookshop. And, encourage the next owner to do the same. That way, future owners not only have a great novel to read, but also some history of where the book has been.

Recycling children's booksNo matter how badly you wish for it, your little ones won't be little forever. Before you toss that copy of Where the Wild Things Are, ring up your grandkid's teacher or librarian. With today's budget cuts, we're willing to bet your grandkid's school can use the extra donations. This will help to ensure that future generations have the privilege of reading childhood classics like The Cat in the Hat.

Throw a partyThe less-than-stellar economic state has forced label-loving fashionistas to get creative with "recessionista" clothing-swap parties. Why not put those same principles to use and invite a group of your friends over for a book swap? Bring five to 10 of your recent reads and your favorite snack to share. Add a round (or two) of cocktails and enjoy!

Pass on your old pages

Donate to the IRCThe International Rescue Committee is a global network of first responders, humanitarian relief workers, healthcare providers and activists working to provide safety and sanctuary to refugees. They're on the ground in 42 countries and 24 cities in the US, so it'll be easy to find your local chapter. Books that will help refugees learn or improve on English and math skills are ideal. Plus, anything that doesn't get used is donated to Goodwill in exchange for money vouchers the families can use at Goodwill.

Start an in-office libraryDesignate an extra shelf in your company's office for employees to bring in their used books. Stock the space with your old novels for your coworkers to enjoy at their leisure. The only rule: take a book, leave a book!

Give to a charity book saleNonprofit volunteer groups across the country hold annual book sales to raise money for their various organizations. The Volunteer Nonprofit Service Association in Phoenix holds an annual event to raise funds for three different organizations: Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation, Literacy Volunteers of Maricopa County, and Toby House, Inc. This year they raised more than $400,000 in two days - amazing!

Make a Vet happyThey make the ultimate sacrifice to serve and protect our country. The least we can do is offer them a bit of entertainment and education, right? Find your local VA Hospital and see what kind of books they might need. Donating is easy and will no doubt be appreciated.

THURSDAY APRIL 88:30AM-5:00PMALZHEIMER’S CONFERENCEAMARILLO COLLEGE WEST CAMPUS$30.00 PER PERSON/ LUNCH INCLUDED

11:30 AMDOWNTOWN WOMEN’S CENTER LUNCHEONAMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/HERITAGE ROOM

8:00PMEQUUSAMARILLO LITTLE THEATERADVENTURE SPACE FACILITYRATED R FOR LANGUAGE

FRIDAY APRIL 910:00AM-7:00PMJUST BETWEEN FRIENDS TRADE SHOWAMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/REGENCY ROOM

8:00 PMWTAMU SHOWCASEAMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/AUDITORIUM

8:00PMCINDERELLAGLOBE NEWS CENTER$13.00-$48.00 PER PERSON

8:00PMEQUUSAMARILLO LITTLE THEATERADVENTURE SPACE FACILITYRATED R FOR LANGUAGE

SATURDAY APRIL 108:00AM-6:30PMJUST BETWEEN FRIENDS TRADE SHOW

AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/REGENCY ROOM

9:00AM-6:00PMHEALTHY KIDS DAYAMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/N. EXHIBIT HALL

9:00AMWILEY HICKS JR ROPINGBENEFITING MAKE A WISHWILL ROGER RIDERS INDOOR ARENA

10:00AM-12:00PMSECOND SATURDAYBACKYARD HABITATSWILDCAT BLUFF NATURE CENTER$3.00 ADULTS/$2.00 SENIORS & CHILDREN

10:00AM- 10:00PMTANTALIZING TABLES TRADE SHOWAMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/HERITAGE ROOM

10:00AM5TH ANNUAL CHI OMEGA GOLF TOURNAMENTBENEFITING MAKE A WISHCOMANCHE GOLF COURSECALL 806-358-9943 FOR MORE INFO

3:00PMCINDERELLAGLOBE NEWS CENTER$13.00-$48.00 PER PERSON

7:05PMAMARILLO VENOM VSCORPUS CHRISTY HAMMERHEADSAMARILLO CIVIC CENTER COLISEUM$14.00-$28.00 PER PERSON

8:00PMCINDERELLAGLOBE NEWS CENTER$13.00-$48.00 PER PERSON

8:00PMEQUUSAMARILLO LITTLE THEATERADVENTURE SPACE FACILITYRATED R FOR LANGUAGE

SUNDAY APRIL 1112:00PM-3:00PMJUST BETWEEN FRIENDS TRADE SHOWAMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/REGENCY ROOM

2:30PMEQUUSAMARILLO LITTLE THEATERADVENTURE SPACE FACILITYRATED R FOR LANGUAGE

TUESDAY APRIL 1310:00AM-4:00PMJOB FAIRAMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/N. EXHIBIT HALL

THURSDAY APRIL 156:00PM-9:00PMTHIRD THURSDAY ART EVENTAMARILLO MUSEUM OF ARTFREE TO ATTEND

FRIDAY APRIL 167:00PMDIOCESE OF AMARILLO RALLYAMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/HERITAGE ROOM

8:00PMAMARILLO SYMPHONY“DISCOVER FAMILY”GLOBE NEWS CENTER

Silver Calendar

SATURDAY APRIL 178:00AM-10:30PMDIOCESE OF AMARILLO RALLYAMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/HERITAGE ROOM

10:00AM-2:00PMEARTH FESTWILDCAT BLUFF NATURE CENTERFREE TO ATTEND

10:00AMBOWL FOR KIDS SAKEBENEFITING BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERSWESTERN BOWL

8:00PMAMARILLO SYMPHONY“DISCOVER FAMILY”GLOBE NEWS CENTER

SUNDAY APRIL 183:00PMAMARILLO YOUTH CHOIR SPRING CONCERTGLOBE NEWS CENTER

8:00PMAMARILLO SYMPHONY“DISCOVER FAMILY’GLOBE NEWS CENTER

MONDAY APRIL 199:00AM, 10:15AM, 11:00AMWEEK OF THE CHILDHANDS ON PROGRAM FOR CHILDREN PANHANDLE PLAINS HISTORICAL MUSEUMCALL 651-2258 TO REGISTER

THURSDAY APRIL 227:30PMMIRANDA LAMBERT & CROSS CANADIAN RAGWEED

AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/COLISEUM$30.00 & $35.00 PER PERSON

FRIDAY APRIL 2311:00AMBEST OF TEXAS LUNCHEON$30.00 FOR LUNCH/ $20.00 FOR SPEAKER ONLY

6:00PM-8:00PM20TH ANNIVERSARY COORS COWBOY CLUB$50.00 PER PERSON INCLUDES BEST OF TEXAS GALA

8:00PMTHE BEST OF TEXAS GALAREX BAXTER BUILDING$30.00 IN ADVANCE/ $40.00 @ DOOR

SATURDAY APRIL 2410:00AM-12:00PMVEGETABLE GARDENING CLASSAMARILLO BOTANICAL GARDENSCALL OFFICE FOR MORE INFO

12:00PM-4:00PMBEST OF TEXAS“TOUCH A TRUCK”JOHN STIFF PARK

7:00PMBOB AND TOM COMEDY STARSGLOBE NEWS CENTER$32.50 PER PERSON

7:05PMAMARILLO VENOM VSCOLORADO ICEAMARILLO CIVIC CENTER COLISEUM$14.00-$28.00 PER PERSON

TUESDAY APRIL 277:30PMBROADWAY SHOW “RAIN- A TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES”

AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/AUDITORIUM

WEDNESDAY APRIL 287:30PMBROADWAY SHOW “RAIN- A TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES”AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/AUDITORIUM

7:30PMTRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA“BEETHOVEN’S LAST NIGHT 2010”AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/COLISEUM$50.50 PER PERSON

THURSDAY APRIL 297:30PMBROADWAY SHOW “RAIN-A TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES”AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/AUDITORIUM

FRIDAY APRIL 307:30PMHARRINGTON STRING QUARTETWESTMINSTER PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH$18.00 PER PERSON

SATURDAY MAY 111:00AM-1:00PMA MOTHER’S DAY TEACHILDERS’S PLACE$20.00 PER PERSON

7:00PM“DAZZLED TO DEATH” A MURDER MYSTERYAMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/HERITAGE ROOM

7:05PMAMARILLO VENOM VSABILENE RUFF RIDERSAMARILLO CIVIC CENTER/COLISEUM

April 2010

That grating, burning pain bubbling up your esophagus and into your throat is called heartburn. Nearly everyone will experience this painful condition at some time, usually brought on by stress, certain foods, age and lifestyle. Chronic heartburn - experienced two times or more per week - can be a sign of a more serious illness called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), for which you should see your doctor. However, if you have occasional heartburn, changes in your diet can greatly improve your digestive health and put an end to that fiery feeling in your chest and throat.

What causes heartburn?Heartburn occurs when you have an irritation of the esophageal lining because stomach acid seeps up through a valve, called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), and into your esophagus.

In addition to a weak LES, overeating and too much pressure on the stomach (often with pregnancy or obesity) can worsen heartburn. Foods that relax the LES are also to blame. These foods include: acidic

fruit, such as citrus and tomatoes, garlic, onions, chocolate, coffee and other caffienated beverages, alcohol, peppermint, and high-fat foods.

Stress, smoking and medications can also contribute to heartburn by relaxing the LES and/or stimulating the overproduction of stomach acid. And don’t underestimate the power of a tight belt – restrictive clothing can put pressure on your stomach and force acid back into your esophagus, too.

Natural remedies for heartburnThough you can take over-the-counter antacids or prescription acid-blocking medications, learning how to control heartburn through natural means, such as changing your diet, is a much more effective, healthy, and long-term approach.

Understand your heartburnBecome a “diet detective” as your first line of defense against heartburn. Learn more about your condition as well as offending foods you should avoid.

Help for heartburn

Keep a food journalIf you’re on a weight loss program, you may already be keeping a food diary. In addition to the types and amounts of foods you eat, to help reduce the occurrence of heartburn, start keeping track of how foods affect you. Ditch the foods that cause heartburn.

Drink water before eatingDrinking an 8-ounce glass of water 30 minutes before a meal can get digestion off to a good start. The lining in your stomach is made of mucous, which is 90 percent water…drinking water starts mucous production before you eat, and you’ll have less of a chance of heartburn. But don’t drink more than a glass of water since too much water can dilute your digestive enzymes.

Chew, and chew some moreIf you don’t chew well, it’s much harder for nutrients to be absorbed by the body. It can also set you up for heartburn. Digestion starts in your mouth – chew your food into very small pieces before swallowing.

Take digestive enzymesVisit your health food store and buy some digestive enzymes. Betaine hydrochloric acid supplements can help your body digest proteins by assisting your stomach’s own hydrochloric acid in processing food. Other helpful digestive enzymes to consider are bromelain and papain, both derived from tropical fruits.

Eat bitter herbsDandelion leaves can help the body produce more digestive enzymes; deglycyrrizinated licorice, which can help calm the digestive tract; and broccoli sprouts, which have been shown to eliminate the H. pylori, the bacteria associated with heartburn, ulcers, and even stomach cancer.

Up your probiotic intakeImproving your digestive health can reduce your risk of heartburn. Probiotics, like those found in yogurt, not only help with digestion,

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

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

Now's the time to stock your fridge with the five foods guaranteed to turn back the clock.

Age-Defying Food: Spinach How it keeps you young: When it comes to avoiding osteoporosis, calcium gets all the praise. But another major player is vitamin K. New studies suggest K can improve bone density and lower the risk of hip fracture. Leafy greens are a prime source -- one cup of fresh spinach supplies more than one and a half times your daily requirement.

As well as safeguarding your skeleton, spinach keeps your eyes sparkling and clear. Years of exposure to sunlight can damage the center of your eye's retina, leading to macular degeneration and blindness. But spinach is the number one source of zeaxanthin and lutein, nutrients that make up part of the retina. There, they soak up harmful light before it can do cumulative damage.

Age-Defying Food: Curry Powder How it keeps you young: Curry helps maintain your mental muscle. In fact, some parts of India, where it's eaten daily, have one-fourth the U.S. rate for Alzheimer's. Curry is packed with turmeric, a spice that's rich in the antioxidant curcumin. Researchers at UCLA believe that curcumin wards off Alzheimer's by preventing the growth of amyloid plaques, sticky proteins that are toxic to brain cells. In addition, it shields us from harmful free radicals (formed when we metabolize oxygen), which attack our cells, damaging tissue and organs. Those strikes increase in frequency in the body as we get older. Curry prevents those assaults from happening in the brain, where they can impair

Anti-Aging

Diet

Age-Defying Food: Tomatoes How they keep you young: Don't toss your sunscreen, but filling up on tomatoes may help protect your skin, according to German researchers. Volunteers swallowed a daily shot of tomato paste mixed with olive oil or just plain olive oil for 10 weeks. After daily exposure to UV light, the tomato group had 40 percent less sunburn than those who consumed only olive oil. The magic ingredient? Lycopene, which protects skin from the oxidation that results from sun damage and leads to wrinkles. Drizzling tomatoes with a little healthy fat like olive oil helps you better absorb the lycopene, as does cooking or chopping this red fruit.

Age-Defying Food: Almonds How they keep you young: Almonds are packed with hard-to-get vitamin E (just one small handful delivers half your daily dose), a nutrient that keeps you agile and graceful. When researchers from several leading medical schools looked at the impact of different vitamins and minerals on speed, coordination, and balance in people over age 65, the only one that made a difference was vitamin E. Volunteers with the weakest physical performance had the lowest levels of E, whereas more agile participants had adequate amounts of the vitamin in their system. Researchers surmise this power vitamin keeps you coordinated by neutralizing those troublesome free radicals in both your muscles and nervous system.

Age-Defying Food: Chocolate How it keeps you young: Dark chocolate doesn't just satisfy that intense craving that so many of us have, it also lowers blood pressure. That's heart-healthy news since blood pressure typically rises as you get older, increasing your risk for heart attack and stroke. Lucky for your waistline you don't need much chocolate to benefit from its blood pressure-lowering effects. German researchers recently found that just a quarter of an ounce of dark chocolate per day (the amount in one-seventh of most chocolate bars) trimmed two to three points off hypertensive patients' blood pressure. The reason? Cocoa is rich in flavonols, potent plant chemicals that encourage blood vessels to relax, keeping them youthful, supple and pliable.

Just because the economy looks bleak doesn't mean you have to deprive yourself and your

family. Here's how to spend less, but have more.

You don't need us to tell you times are tight. Between the rising cost of gas and groceries, a disheartening recession, and the shaky job and housing markets, you've probably spent more than a few hours worrying about your finances. But tightening your belt doesn't mean choking your spirit; you can still enjoy the things you love.

You don't have to deprive yourself, but you do have to become more conscious of how you're spending your money. Living well is about spending in alignment with your values, not frittering money away on things that don't matter to you. Your first step: Become clear on what you

most appreciate in life, whether it's taking annual vacations or having a souped-up cell phone. There are ways to do the things you enjoy for cheap or free. There's a thrill to getting that beautiful thing or experience while also saving money. So you can live a rich life

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

Learn the art of the haggleNo matter where or when you're shopping, or for what, the day of the fixed price is over. If you don't ask, 'Is that the best you can do?' you're doing yourself a disservice, especially with big-ticket items, including home appliances and furniture. The best way to negotiate is by framing the price reduction as a win-win proposition.

Butter up your favorite brandsCompanies love hearing from loyal customers and will often send them coupons or free samples. Pen an enthusiastic letter or e-mail to the customer service department of your favorite conditioner, snack food, or cleaning product; it could save you cash while you continue to enjoy name-brand products.

Vacation in not-so-hot destinationsCheck Internet travel sites like Travelzoo and Expedia for discounted rates and package deals. Try to book your vacation in the off-season, it is not as crowded and usually half the price of vacationing in prime vacation season.

Take a chance on a studentContact hairdressing or massage schools in your area to connect with stylists and bodyworkers in training. These students are required to practice on real-life clients, usually with supervision, before receiving professional certification, and services will cost you a fraction of the usual price. The students take a little longer, but surprisingly, their work is second to none, they want it to be perfect to impress their teachers! Find a reputable beauty school near you at beautyschoolsdirectory.com.

Spend less enjoy more

Make talk cheapFor expensive cell phone bills go to the web to find a better deal. Enter billshrink.com, a Website that analyzes one of your monthly statements for free and recommends the best packages for you, taking into account who you call the most and when, the features you use, and which company offers the best coverage in your area. BillShrink will soon expand into the credit card market, directing users to the best card for their individual spending habits.

5 Things to Ask Yourself Before You BuyMoney can't buy happiness, but it can sometimes buy stuff that makes you happy. Before you fork over your hard-earned cash for a purchase, determine whether you're investing in something that will truly add joy and utility to your life. Ask yourself:

1. Is this something I will use at least once a week? Will it be useful for at least a year?

2. Will this thing make me smile at least 10 times? Will it contribute to lasting memories?

3. Have I recently seen an ad for this item or experience? If so, am I secretly kidding myself that it will make me as skinny and giddy as the actress in said ad?

4. What am I willing to give up for this purchase? Would I be willing to eat ramen noodles for a week or give up my premium movie channel to finance it?

5. Can I wait until this goes on sale to buy it? Or at least 24 hours? (Hint: The answer to this one is always yes!)

Offer good through April 30, 2010.

Computers can cost anywhere from a couple hundred dollars to thousands of dollars. How do you find the computer that is perfect for you while at time ensuring you aren't paying too much money?

Desktop versus laptopThe first thing you need to do is determine whether you should purchase a desktop or a laptop. Laptops are portable, sleeker and more stylish; however laptops don’t always make the most sense. Desktops are generally less expensive, more customizable and cheaper to repair. When purchasing a new computer on a budget, you should initially lean toward a desktop.

How much power?Once you’ve figured out whether you want a desktop or a laptop, the next aspect you need to determine is how powerful of a computer you need. It’s always tempting to go with the top of the line model, however that is rarely the right way to purchase a new computer. The speed of a computer is expressed in megahertz or gigahertz, while the memory is expressed in RAM. These are numbers you should consider when determining how much power and memory you need.

Be truthful with yourself concerning how you will be using your new computer. If the computer will simply be for browsing the internet and word processing, you can easily get by with the cheapest computer models. Even a store like Wal-Mart sells cheap computers that can handle the basics. Look for computer coupons or sales in your local newspaper. Stores like Best Buy and Circuit City tend to have good computer deals. You can even consider purchasing a used or refurbished computer when your computer needs are limited.

Think twice about softwareAs you are ordering your new computer, don’t automatically assume that you need the latest and greatest software that is on the market. Oftentimes you can actually re-use the software you have on an older computer. Why re-purchase the software if you already own it?

If the license for the software you need is non-transferable or you need new software, but sure to check for cheaper (or even free!) alternatives. For example, Microsoft Office can cost hundreds of dollars. A comparable application called Open Office can be downloaded and used free of charge.

You can save additional money by not opting for any subscription based anti-virus software. Instead, you can use one of the many free anti-virus software programs available all over the internet.

Bargain

computerhunting for a

Extended warranties and service agreementsMany studies have shown that purchasing extra computer warranties and service agreements beyond the standard manufacturer warranty aren’t worth the money. You should remember that you aren’t expecting the computer you are purchasing to survive ten or twenty years. You are expecting the computer to last two to three years. With the way technology is improving and changing, computers become obsolete quicker than just about anything you can purchase.

Generally, you should avoid extended agreements that end up costing you more than 33% of the original purchase price. Although, there are circumstances where a warranty or a service agreement makes sense. If you are purchasing a laptop and there’s a chance it may be stolen, or you travel extensively and it could get damaged, an extended warranty should be considered. If you are new to computers and don’t have any computer knowledge, a service agreement can help you solve any problems that may arise.

If an extra warranty or a service agreement makes you sleep better at night, go ahead and add it to your purchase. On the other hand, if you are confident that your computer will be safe and you can handle fundamental computer troubles, decline the extra coverage to save even more money.

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

Try these home remedy tips for dogs.

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

Home Remedy Tip #1: Vitamin E isn’t only good for treating those pesky wrinkles on your face; it’s also great for your dog’s dry skin. You can give a doggy massage by applying vitamin E oil to the skin, or go all "Hollywood" and pop your dog a pill (of vitamin E, that is).

If you give the vitamin orally, check with your vet on the recommended dosages for your specific dog breed.

Home Remedy Tip #2: Flavorless electrolyte-replacing liquids (e.g., sports waters or pediatric drinks) not only help athletes replenish fluids and babies rehydrate after illness, it can also supply your sick pooch’s body with much needed fluids after a bout of diarrhea or vomiting.

Consult your veterinarian as to the appropriate dosage amounts when using these types of liquids on your dog.

Home Remedy Tip #3: Deliciously plain yogurt is a healthy treat

for your dog. The live acidophilus in the yogurt keeps the bad bacteria in the intestines down to a manageable level. If your dog is on antibiotics, a little yogurt will help keep yeast infections at bay. You can also give your dog acidophilus pills -- wrapping the pills in bacon is strictly optional.

Puppies are especially prone to yeast infections, so a little plain yogurt as a snack (or even dessert) can help keep things in balance.

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

cures cures for fidofor fido

Home Remedy Tip #5: An itchy dog can be quiet an annoyance, especially as it goes around scratching itself on any piece of furniture it can reach. Forget the backscratcher. Buy some finely ground oatmeal (as in baby oatmeal cereal) and stir it into a bath of warm water. Your dog will thank you, trust us. Dogs with skin allergies, infections, and other diseases which cause itchiness have been shown to gain immediate relief with this approach, too.

Home Remedy Tip #6: Dogs can be like kids at times, and as such they are bound to suffer from wounds and swellings occasionally. Try treating these ailments with Epsom salt soaks and hot packs next time. A bath consisting of Epsom salt and hot water can help reduce the healing time and the swelling, especially when combined with prescribed antibiotics (and under veterinary supervision).

If soaking the dog in the Epsom salt (twice a day for five minutes) isn't convenient for your schedule or the location of the dog's wound, a clean towel drenched in the same solution can be applied to wounds with an almost identical effect.

Home Remedy Tip #7: Does your dog have fleas? Never fear, try some borax powder. The standard stuff at the store will work wonders on the fleas by poking holes in their crunchy insect exoskeletons.

A good way to make sure those parasitic suckers get annihilated is to sprinkle the borax on your floor then sweep or vacuum up the excess. Those invisible borax crystals left behind will kill the fleas and you won't even have to lift a finger. It's inexpensive and practically non-toxic compared to an appointment with the exterminator.

Home (or holistic) remedies aren't just for those Hollywood types anymore. It's important to take care of your dog when it's feeling a little under the weather, and on a day-to-day basis. Most of all, it'll help keeping your baby from crying like a hound dog.

COUNSELING SERVICES:

ALZHEIMER’S’ ASSOCIATION415 SW 8TH AVE STE 300AMARILLO, TEXAS 79101806-373-5313www.alz.org/txstar

FAMILY SUPPORT SERVICES1001 S. POLK STREETAMARILLO, TEXAS 79101806-342-2500www.fss-ama.org

EMERGENCY CARE SERVICES:

AMARILLO URGENT CARE1915 COULTERAMARILLO, TEXAS806-352-5400

AMARILLO SENIOR CARE CLINIC14 MEDICAL DRIVEAMARILLO, TEXAS 79106806-358-8300

TRIUMPH HEALTHCARE7501 WALLACE BLVDAMARILLO, TEXAS 79124806-468-9185

HEALTH SERVICES:

AMARILLO SPEECH, HEARING & LANGUAGE CENTER1300 WALLACE BLVDAMARILLO, TEXAS 79106806-359-7681www.amaspeechhearing.org

JO WYATT CLINIC1411 AMARILLO BLVD EASTAMARILLO, TEXAS 79107806-351-7200

TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF DISABILITY

3501-L WEST 45TH

AMARILLO, TEXAS 791009806-376-7214www.dads.state.tx.us

OUTREACH HEALTH SERVICES1616 S KENTUCKY STE 140AAMARILLO, TEXAS 79102806-353-9907www.outreachhealth.com

HOME HEALTHCARE SERVICES:

ACCOLADE HOME CARE6300 I-40 WEST, STE 210AMARILLO, TEXAS 79106806-352-3900

CENTRAL LINE INFUSION1301 S. COULTER STE 201AMARILLO, TEXAS806-352-1212

COMPASSION HOME CARE1301 S. COULTER STE 402AMARILLO, TEXAS 79106806-351-8522www.compassionhomecare.us

GOODCARE HEALTH SERVICES4107 S.W. 49TH

AMARILLO, TEXAS806-373-7373

INTERIM HEALTHCARE1901 MEDI PARKAMARILLO, TEXAS806-467-1156

LONG TERM CARE:

ODYSSEY HEALTHCARE6900 I-40 WEST STE 150AMARILLO, TEXAS806-372-7696

MISCELLANEOUS SERVICES:

AMARILLO SENIOR CITIZENS ASSOCIATION1220 SOUTH POLKAMARILLO, TEXAS 79101806-372-3381

RETRIED & SENIOR VOLUNTEER SERVICES321 SW 7TH AVENUEAMARILLO, TEXAS 79101806-373-8389www.pcsvcs.org

SENIOR AMBASSADORS COALITIONPO BOX 2024AMARILLO, TEXAS 79105806-372-3381www.sac-panhandle.com

MOBILITY SERVICES:

OPEN ROAD MOBILITY6103 STAR LANEAMARILLO, TEXAS 79109806-353-2747www.openroadmobility.com

RETIREMENT HOMES:

THE ARBORS1910 MEDI PARKAMARILLO, TEXAS806-457-4700

CHILDERS PLACE6600 KILGORE AMARILLO, TEXAS 79106806-350-2200www.bivinsfoundations.org

THE CRAIG METHODISTRETIREMENT COMMUNITY5500 W. 9TH AVENUEAMARILLO, TEXAS 79106806-352-7244www.sears-methodist.com

Directory Of Services

NUTRITION:

FAITH CITY MISSION401 SOUTH EAST 2ND

AMARILLO, TEXAS 79105806-373-6402www.faithcity.org

HIGH PLAINS FOOD BANK815 ROSS STREETAMARILLO, TEXAS 79102806-374-8562

MEALS ON WHEELS219 W. 7TH

AMARILLO, TEXAS 79101806-374-1521www.amarillomealsonwheels.org

WEST TEXAS GROCERY DELIVERYAMARILLO, TEXAS806-433-1403

PHARMACIES:

AVONDALE PHARMACY5135 PLAINSAMARILLO, TEXAS806-352-2708

D&S PHARMACY3324 S. GEORGIA806-352-27113500 N.E. 24TH

806-383-3377

SOUTHPARK PHARMACY5901 S. BELLAMARILLO, TEXAS806-358-2428

VALMED HOME HEALTH & PHARMACY#3 CARE CIRCLEAMARILLO, TEXAS 79106806-350-6337www.valmed-hhs.com

REHABILITATION:

NORTHWEST TEXAS REHABILITATION HOSPITAL7200 W. 9TH

AMARILLO, TEXAS 79106806-468-2900www.rehabcare.com

RESPIRATORY SERVICES:

QUALITY RESPIRATORY SERVICES & REPAIR6633 CANYON DRIVEAMARILLO, TEXAS806-352-4140

SENIOR CITIZEN’S SERVICES:

ADULT PROTECTIVE SERVICES7132 W. I-40 # BAMARILLO, TEXAS806-463-5114

AREA AGENCY ON AGING415 WEST 8TH

PO BOX 9257AMARILLO, TEXAS 79105806-331-2227www.theprp.org

PANHANDLE SUPPORT SERVICES1502 SOUTH CLEVELANDAMARILLO, TEXAS 79102806-373-0392www.pcsvcs.org

WIDOWED PERSONS SERVICE OF AMARILLO2207 WEST 7TH- THE CANYONSAMARILLO, TEXAS 79106806-374-9772

STATE AGENCIES:

ELDER ABUSE HOTLINE1-800-252-5400

FOOD STAMPS1-806-376-7214

MEDICARE HOTLINE1-800-633-4227

SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION1-800-772-1213

TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF AGING & DISABILITY HOTLINE1-800-252-9240

TEXAS VETERAN COMMISSION1-800-252-3036

TEMPORARY ASSISTANCE SERVICES:

AMERICAN RED CROSS806-376-6309

SALVATION ARMY806-373-6631

TRANSPORTATION:

LE FLEUR TRANSPORTATION OF TEXAS900 S. NELSONAMARILLO, TEXAS 79104806-367-1476www.LeFleur.net

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