PROVIDENCE MEMORIAL HOSPITAL FREE SIERRA MEDICAL CENTER FREE SEMINAR CHILDBIRTH PREPARATION CLASSES INFO: HEARTBURN RELIEF

AND MAKOPLASTY
El Paso, TX Providence Memorial Hospitals childbirth experts and lactation consultants offer important classes free of charge for parents, future parents, grandparents and other adult family members who are preparing to, or have welcomed a new baby into their families. Classes vary from Childbirth Preparation, Breastfeeding, Pediatrician Q&A/CPR Demonstration, Teen Childbirth Preparation to Baby Care Basics and Childrens Class. Breastfeeding 1 Session: Discuss the advantages, joys and techniques to promote a successful breastfeeding experience. Learn to maintain a good breast milk supply and how to continue breastfeeding when you go back to work. Includes pumping, storing, freezing and thawing breast milk. Classes are from 7pm to 9:30pm. Class Dates: Aug. 2, Sep. 6, Oct. 4, Nov. 1, Dec. 6 All classes held in the Providence Memorial Hospital Auditoriums B and C located at 2001 N. Oregon. Please call 577-SPHN (7746) to register for classes. Classes are free for parents delivering their babies at the Sierra Providence Health Network or William Beaumont.

SPOTLIGHTEPNEWS.COM JULY 26, 2012 PAGE 2

PARTIAL KNEE RESURFACING

El Paso, TX Sierra Medical Center is offering two free seminars: Heartburn Relief on Thursday, August 2nd at 6p.m, and MAKOPLASTY Partial Knee Resurfacing on Wednesday, August 15th at 6pm. Both seminars will take place at the Sierra Medical Center Doctors Lounge (lower level of hospital) at 1625 Medical Center Drive and are FREE to the public.

HEARTBURN RELIEF FREE SEMINAR:

Date: Thursday, August 2nd, 2012 Time: 6:00pm Location: Doctors Lounge, Sierra Medical Center, 1625 Medical Center Drive Presenter: Dr. Jaime Gomez For More Information and to RSVP please call 915.577.7746

MAKOPLASTY PARTIAL KNEE RESURFACING FREE SEMINAR: Date: Wednesday, August 15th, 2012
Time: 6:00pm to 7:30pm Location: Doctors Lounge, Sierra Medical Center, 1625 Medical Center Drive Presenter: Orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Alvaro Hernandez, M..D. who specializes in Joint Replacement Surgery. For More Information and to RSVP please call 915.577.7746

El Pasoans cut water use by

half-a-billion gallons in 2012

Less is the New More lifestyle remains important as drought is projected to continue
EL PASO So far in 2012, El Pasoans have used 502 million fewer gallons of water than they did by this time in 2011. but more deeply; and seeking and fixing leaks around the home. But the need to conserve continues. While the monsoon rains have finally come and the summer heat has broken, drought preparation remains of paramount importance to the El Paso Water Utilities staff. Our drought years in the making wont be erased by a few days of welcome rain, Balliew said. Since recent rains have had only a negligible impact on the New Mexico reservoirs on which we rely, El Paso Water Utilities continues to anticipate a severely reduced river water supply in 2013. EPWU is drilling new wells, building new pipelines, and extending the network of purple pipes that deliver recycled wastewater for irrigation and industrial use. El Pasoans can stay informed and learn ways to conserve by visiting LessIsMoreEP.org and by finding EPWU on Facebook and Twitter.

Congratulations to El Pasoans for adopting the Less is the New More lifestyle, said
EPWU Vice President John Balliew. El Pasoans have yet again proven this community is a worldwide leader in water conservation. EPWUs multimedia, bilingual Less is the New More public outreach campaign focuses on following the citys yearround, oddeven watering schedule; watering lawns less frequently,

hool days, school days Sc

By Joe Olvera , 2012

SPOTLIGHTEPNEWS.COM JULY 26, 2012 PAGE 3

The song goes: School days, school days, good old golden rule daysreading and riting
and rithmetic all put together to make you sick LOL! I first read this so-called song, when I was a kid, in an Archie comic book. It reflected my sentiments exactly. Most kids, even today, are probably lamenting the end of summer vacation, the end of getting up late from bed, the end of endless summer days in which kids would finally fall into bed, exhausted from a full day of play and cavorting. But, no more. From now until next summer, its all about learning. Well, we all know how kids feel about the beginning of school, but, what about the teachers themselves? For Patsy Orona, a second-grade teacher at Vista Hills Elementary, its all a matter of educating her young pupils. Not only that, but (gasp), shes looking forward to it. I miss my kids, two months vacation is more than enough for me. Im ready to get back to work helping them learn about the world. Theyre so

PHOTO FOR ILLUSTRATION PURPOSES ONLY

young, so unencumbered their little minds are like sponges, they soak up everything you teach them and theyre eager for more. Orona practices what she preaches in that her oldest daughter, April, 24, is a graduate of the University of Texas at El Paso. Her son, Alex, 19, is already attending UT El Paso and plays on the band. Her youngest daughter, Christina, will also attend UT El Paso, or some other institution of higher learning. Mentally and physically, I am ready, Orona said. Summer is good, but, Im ready to go back. My biggest worry right now is getting my classroom ready. That means setting up the tables and chairs, decorating the doors and bulletin boards, just making the classroom a welcoming environment. Not only that, but, teachers must go to workshops and other seminars to prepare for the new school year, the new rules that must be followed. Orona said that, using her own money, she prepares little welcome gifts for her kids. She doesnt mind spending the money, because she knows the district cant afford it. Last year she spent $400 of her own money, but considers it money well spent. For her, the new school year starts on July 27. Orona is well aware of the problems the school districts of El Paso, Ysleta, and Socorro are having, but, she doesnt really pay attention to the politics. Her job is to teach the children, so that her focus is on that. Besides, Ive got a great administration at my school. Were led by Principal Mauricio Batres. Hes caring and attentive and very supportive. Linda Johnston, who will teach first graders this year, echoes Oronas senti-

ments in that all her energy must be dedicated to the kids. She teaches at Loma Verde Elementary in the Socorro ISD. She too is aware of some of the problems the district has faced, but, it doesnt faze her because her main concern is to educate the youngsters. Ive been teaching for 16 years, and have taught from sixth grade to first grade. Well, this is my first year with first graders, but, Im looking forward to it because they must depend on me if they are going to have a good future. Although students in Socorro dont start schooI until early next week, teachers are already preparing with workshops on staff development, and other necessities. I feel well-rested, ready for the new school year, Johnston said. I learned a lot last year, teaching older kids, but, teaching firstgraders is a whole different story. Teaching older kids, by the time I get them, they already know how to read. But, its different with young children. I have to start from scratch, teaching them to read, teaching them about Math, and other subjects with which they are not always familiar. Some are, because their parents already may have started them on that path, but, not everyone does that. However, parents are very helpful, I love their involvement. Johnston said she started her teaching career rather late, at age 39. She doesnt like the politics, but thats not really her concern. She knows whats going on, but, her focus has to be on the children. Im responsible to the kids, and I do appreciate it when the parents get involved, its good that they have a voice. I have a great deal of trust in the administration, because all the support staff is very cooperative, very concerned. My responsibility is to focus on the kids 100 percent.

SPOTLIGHTEPNEWS.COM JULY 26, 2012 PAGE 4

Keep Your Home Safe from Burglaries

The Sin Fin Column

by Joe Olvera , 2012

Matute Rafael: El Pasos enigma

Will the real Matute Rafael please stand up! Calling himself only Matute, the El Paso radio star and comedian is one of the most enigmatic personalities in El Paso if not the most mysterious. Hes been on the air for more than 20 years, lately with radio station, El Gato, at KYSE FM-94.7 on your radio dial. He used to be with KBNA-FM, 97.5, and hes been making people laugh since then. Not much is known about him because he never shows his face and he never appears in person where he might be recognized. But, of course, no one has seen him, so how could he be recognized, if at all? EL PASO, TEXAS The El Paso Police Department is reminding the community the importance of taking a few extra moments during the day to ensure that their homes are secured. In some home burglaries residents leave a door or window open or unlocked allowing the burglar the opportunity to enter the home. In other cases burglars simply notice that there is no activity at the home and force a window or door open. The following are some tips that may help prevent your home from being burglarized. Always lock your doors and windows including all side gates and patio doors; Install a home security alarm system with a motion detector light feature; Do not leave any packages, electronics, and other valuables in plain sight; Try not to be predictable and vary the times you leave your home and the routes you take; Leave a radio and use timers for lights; Label all your valuables with your drivers license number; Do not leave your garage door(s) open; Organize or join a Neighborhood Watch Program on your street. Call your Regional Command Center (RCC) listed below and request a free home security survey (for residential properties only). Information for the Neighborhood Watch Program is also available at each listed telephone number. Hes funny, you know? And he comes out with some pendejadas that truly tickle the funny bone. He seems to be a Chicano because he says Chicano phrases, like: Ya sabanas, pa que cobijas? In other words, You already know, so why ask? Thats a phrase which only a Chicano born and raised in El Paso would know. He said once that he attended Bowie High School and that hes a Bowie Bear, but, who knows if hes really telling the truth. He also says words like Orale, or hay te guacho, and simon. One time, a guy with a gaysounding voice said to Matute that he was el rey del libertinaje. Matute immediately turned to Mario Castillo, his co-host, and said, te hablan, Mario. So, yes, he is quick with the adlibs and quick to make his listeners laugh. Unfortunately, the program went off the air, so we couldnt listen to Matutes banter with Mario. The station substituted the program with one from Los Angeles, with some guy who calls himself Piolin. I dont like that guy because he once made a crack about people with disabilities, trying to be funny. But he wasnt funny at all, only offensive. Kinda-sorta reminds me of another idiot who also has a show on El Gato, with La Corcholata. Hes like Piolin, thinks hes very funny, but, hes not. He once referred to President Obama as el buey. He calls himself Doggie, and probably because he has a voice resembling a snarling dog. He insults women and other folks. Oh, well, to each his own. But, back to Matute. Who is he, really? And why the mystery? His voice sounds like a cross between Donald Duck and Barney Fife. Hes got a thin, reedy voice, which makes me think that hes a small man, skinny and not very good looking, with a high-pitched voice which carries well on the air. I once heard from a reputable friend, Pedro Villagrana, that Matute is Mario Castillo, his long-time partner on The Morning Show. But, I have my doubts because Mario is about six feet tall, hefty, and has a deep, powerful voice. But, its not just the voice, its the personality. How could Mario, if Pedro is right, change not only his voice, but, his total persona to such a high degree? Besides the voice, Mario is a sober, serious man who would have to change completely to be Matute. Mario, himself, has denied it saying that hes not the man with a thousand voices. But, is he, or isnt he? Another candidate to be the mysterious Matute, and my wife, Julieta swears by it, is Abel Rodriguez. I seriously doubt it because Abel doesnt speak much Spanish and he has this loud, powerful voice. Ive known Abel since he had started as a cameraman for one of the local t.v. stations. In fact he once got into a tussle with someone who didnt want his picture taken, and tried to take the camera away. Abel has huge, powerful arms, so the guy didnt succeed. I last saw Abel a couple of weeks or more when I appeared on his show, with Hector Montes as the co-host. Again, I dont think its Abel. Julieta and I have a standing argument because she insists that it is Abel making like Matute. The thing is that Abel was involved in one of El Gatos commercials promoting the show, and the guy wearing a tigers mask had hairy arms. And, since Abel has hairy arms, she assumes that because of this. But, whoever really is Matute hes doing a great job. On the new show, with Mario and Carla, hes taken to giving advice on the air advice about immigration, juvenile delinquency, marriage you name it, hes ready with a quip and, sometimes, even gives good advice. The only thing I dont like is the canned laughter which turns on after every remark. It finds me saying, come on Matute, it wasnt that funny. The show really doesnt need canned laughter. Its funny enough without that ridiculous, phony laughter. You know of whom Matute reminds me? The late, great Steve Crosno. Crosno was also one to crack me up with his antics on the air. Not only did he play great music by such artists as Little Joe y La Familia, Sonny Ozuna, Fats Domino, and many others. But, he used to make me laugh with his Chicken Fat and Booze. LoL! So, come on, Matute come clean. Tell us who you are. Will the real Matute Rafael please stand Up? Youre driving me crazy, and Julieta says that Im crazy enough already. Simon, y Orale! Sin Fin

Pebble Hills RCC 915-599-5898 Mission Valley RCC 915-872-3600 Central RCC 915-838-8013 Northeast RCC 915-759-2004 Westside RCC 915-585-6000

SPOTLIGHTEPNEWS.COM JULY 26, 2012 PAGE 5

By: Doppler Dave Speelman

El Pasos Thunderstorms
This is the time of year that we get excited about. The months of July, August, September and even October are when we light up the sky with thunderstorms. What do you notice on typical thunderstorm days here in El Paso? Are there features of days that tend to characterize thunderstorm days from other days? We tend to associate thunderstorm days with warm or hot, humid days when you find yourself sweating a bit more along with being more uncomfortable.

Here are the main three items on the menu that thunderstorms desire:

Heat:
This ingredient takes a while to develop. Typically by the late afternoon and evening we feel those temps climbing quickly. Heat causes unstable air. This plume of warmer air is less dense than colder air and wants to rise like a helium filled balloon shooting off in the sky after being released.

Moisture:
While our heat is rising we need to add this moist air. After all, thunderstorms are full of millions of little droplets of water attaching themselves to very small particles of dust and sand (called condensation nuclei). This surface moisture, near the ground, is pushed in by the wind, typically a southeast wind. Or, the moisture is blown in by thunderstorms that develop in the region.

Weather Trivia:
The typical thunderstorm is how many miles in diameter?
A. B. C. D. E. 1 mile 3 miles 10 miles 15 miles 20 miles
Answer: D 15 miles.

Triggers:
Our next menu item for thunderstorms is a trigger. We need these potential storms to climb high in the atmosphere and bust through the more stable (warmer) air above. This is aided by such weather boundaries as fronts, and low pressure systems such as an upper level disturbance. If the air high above the ground is too warm, then you might not get any storms regardless of any fronts or low pressure systems meandering through.

Doppler" Dave Speelman is the chief meteorologist at KVIA-TV in El Paso. You can watch his forecasts at 4, 5, 6 and 10 pm on ABC-7 (channel 6 cable). If you would like Doppler Dave to address (explain) any weather issues you can email him at Dopplerdave@kvia.com.

THURSDAY

JULY 26

JULY 27

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

JULY 28

JULY 29

SUNDAY

JULY 30

MONDAY

JULY 31

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

AUG 1

Partly Cloudy 30% Rain

High: 94 Low: 75

Partly Cloudy 30% Rain

High: 95 Low: 74

Partly Sunny 20% Rain

High: 95 Low: 73

Partly Sunny 10% Rain

High: 94 Low: 75

Mostly Sunny 20% Rain

High: 95 Low: 71

Mostly Sunny 10% Storms

High: 94 Low: 74

Partly Sunny 20% Rain

High: 93 Low: 73

sley ron Mo By Sha

It's time to do your fashion homework, even if it is still the middle of summer. You can study up on some of the latest trends and make your shopping that much easier, according to Todd Christiansen, divisional merchandising manager for Lands' End Kids.
A survey conducted by Lands' End revealed that 3 out of 5 parents love to shop with their kids "because they love seeing the new styles and products." And a whopping 96 percent of parents said they would share first-day-of-school pictures on Facebook.

g their re doin rents a a er. If e that p ollars go furth ough es sens d thr ir "It mak e y te a r ake the art or th only money c h to m fall ap resear kpacks it's not replace ids' bac f their pants, k a k e s to ees o time it t the kn ut the asted, b that's w them."

So what fashion trends will kids be posing in for those Facebook photos? Here's a roundup of the latest must-haves for girls and guys going back to school:
"The key for girls to make the grade this back-toschool season is color," says Jennifer Coccaro, senior merchandise manager for Lands' End Kids. "Color is everywhere, whether as a striking statement in pencil-fit pants and skirts or a more subtle surprise in shoes and accessories."

Colored bottoms Look for denim and corduroy in the season's hottest silhouette the pencil leg. It doesn't have to be tight, just slim and trim. Mix it up with a fun skirt with a ruffled hem that has a little bit of flounce. Space-dye style The trendy, striated space-dye pattern is fun and comfortable when done in French terry separates such as hoodies, longsleeve dresses, ruffled knit skorts and rolled-up pants. Detailed Tees. Forget the plain Jane T-shirts. This fall, dress up everyday jeans or
skirts and blazers with Tees embellished with delicate ruffles and pin-tuck detailing.

Dresses and Leggings. They're the perfect duo offering style and comfort. Solid color
leggings make a great accent for any printed dress, while mixing-and-matching prints and patterns lets girls create their own personal looks.

Long-Sleeve V-neck cardigans. To top it all off these cardigans are the most versatile layering pieces that can add a playful pop of color to any outfit. Longer lengths are perfect because you can belt them for a more tailored look.

For the boys:

"Boys will break the mold in back-to-school this back-to-school season with looks that are rugged, tailored and comfortable," says Adam Napier, senior merchandise manager for Lands' End Kids. Here are five must-haves for the boys on your backto-school shopping list:

Graphic rugbies The stripes are on the back-toschool playing field. Embroideries, screen prints and dip dying make the Rugby shirt a go-to-fashion-must-have for the guys. Cadet-inspired pants. These rugged pants are a sure
style hit this fall. Dressed up or down, these are the official pants of fall. Continues on page 8 Girls jump for joy this back-to-school season with colorful pants that mix and match with ruffled Tees and hoodies. (www.landsend.com)

EnErgy ExprEss by Marilynn prEston

Hot Topics! The Secret Link Between Heat Illness and Health Reform
Drink plenty of water
but not so much that you risk flash-flooding your system, which can also create a breakdown. This is what preventing heat illness looks like. It's up to you to take it on board and practice the basics of self-care avoiding doctors, drugs and emergency room visits. Personal responsibility also figures in when it comes to the Affordable Care Act, in a few crucial ways. For starters, when Gov. Mitt Romney was explaining to the citizens of Massachusetts why it was fair and good to require everyone in the state to sign up for medical insurance, he invoked the "Personal Responsibility Principle" as the reason. Health care is something we all use, he argued, so we should all be responsible for sharing in the costs by buying insurance and not expecting a free ride. In Romney's state, insurance companies adjusted to the mandate by offering a wider choice of lower-cost policies, and there were subsidies, too. Now 98 percent of the people in Massachusetts are insured, and by all accounts, it's working very well. The Personal Responsibility Principle can't stop at citizens buying insurance. If health care reform is to happen in the best possible way, personal responsibility needs to override greed and ignorance throughout the system. Primary-care doctors, for example, have to do more than push pills and fill hospital beds. They have to take responsibility for keeping people well, by focusing their patients on smart eating, regular exercise and stress reduction. Since most of them don't have the time or expertise to guide you toward a healthier lifestyle, in the new system they will need to do the responsible thing and hand you over to a community health care specialist, wellness coach, nurse-practitioner or physician's assistant all new job growth categories. You know who'll be losing their jobs under the Affordable Care Act? The people at insurance companies who used to deny your claims because of "pre-existing conditions." (Being a woman is my personal favorite.) That can't happen to kids anymore, thanks to health care reform. And starting in 2014, it can't happen to any of us. The president needs to take responsibility for that, over and over. And you, dear reader, will need to take personal responsibility, too, if we want this historic shift to a more effective and humane system to succeed.

SPOTLIGHTEPNEWS.COM JULY 26, 2012 PAGE 7

The nation's unfolding discussion about the Affordable Care Act

and what it means to you and to me, your most personal trainer won't go away. It's too important to ignore and too complicated to fully explain, but it's worthwhile pursuing because, let's face it, what's more important than your health and well-being? On the other hand, it's blistering hot in many parts of the country. Crops are dying, and so too are some recreational athletes who don't understand the risks of heat illness. When is it too hot to run, to bike, to walk or play tennis? What's a smart strategy for staying active while avoiding collapse? So I'm torn. What should I focus on this week? How to exercise at 100 degrees or the most important piece of health care reform in 100 years? And then it struck me. The two are mutually dependent on one simple but profound idea: personal responsibility. If you want to prevent heat illness, you've got to be willing to learn and practice some new behaviors. The same is true for your role in health care reform, but let's begin with the 3 C's Coping with Climate Change:

a drug you see advertised on TV "is right for you." Instead, conspire with
your health team to take fewer drugs, based on the healthier choices you make. Continues on next page

Stop asking your doctor if

Don't exercise outdoors at the hottest time of the day. Switch to

early morning or late afternoon. Or shift your workout indoors.

Never push yourself to the point of dizziness, exhaustion or dehydration. Be aware of how
your body is responding to high temps, and respect the signals it sends you.

SPOTLIGHTEPNEWS.COM JULY 26, 2012 PAGE 8

Your Horoscope
The full Aquarius moon is the star of this transitional week. The close of July comes with the delicious tension of a highly productive waxing Capricorn moon, and finally things burst open on August 1 with the "lightning moon." There's a superhero quality to this time, and it's most auspicious to explore your own special powers. May the lightning moon announce your power to you like a bolt from above. ARIES (March 21-April 19). Each goal you have is glorious as it stands independently. But when you put all of your goals together, you may find they are in conflict with one another. It's a momentum-blocker for sure. Luckily, you have a strong intuition about how to prioritize and press onward. TAURUS (April 20-May 20). Even though you sometimes wish you could invest time and money into a better education, you also realize the truth of the matter: No matter how much you learn or what you know, it won't add up to a thing unless you also take action. This week you'll get into action and do more than those with fancy credentials. GEMINI (May 21-June 21). Too many options produce an uncomfortable, unproductive state of confusion. Get clear on your No. 1 goal, and spend the better part of your time on it. It's not enough to simply narrow your focus. Put blinders on, horsey style, so you can't even see other options. CANCER (June 22-July 22). Reorganizing your life may produce an overnight improvement, though it will take about seven days to do the organizing. Take on a little restructuring each day, and by next Sunday, you'll be poised to make the transformation you've

By Holiday Mathis

week 07/26- 08/01

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19). Before you launch into your hardworking mode, note that this week's patterns are atypical. Oddly enough, days filled with leisure lead to your most productive period yet. So parcel out the work involved in that mammoth task you have to accomplish between lengthy, lazy, silly stretches of doing nothing at all. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18). There is great freedom in letting go of what was and what should have been. However, you may not be in the mood for great freedom. The comfort of a familiar mindset also has benefits. Either way, you'll be working through what happened or didn't happen through writing, talking and artistic expression. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20). What you want to happen may not be practical. Also, there are many involved, and their wants are not the same as yours. But you're likely to stay lighthearted and playful. So, things will get complicated but deliciously so because you keep coming at them with a fun-andgames perspective. THIS WEEK'S BIRTHDAYS: Because you're receptive to new influences, adventures ensue. In August, a relationship feels preordained and features pleasingly fateful events. You claim a space in September and use it for work, sanctuary and personal expression. You'll be promoted in November. December offers reunions and travel. There will be a showcase in January. Make the most of it by preparing for several weeks beforehand. In February, start training or go into business. April brings a windfall.

DEAR ABBY by Abigail Van Buren

been wanting for some time now. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22). Even though you'll be turning in work to someone else this week, the truth is that you are ultimately running your own business. You're the one who is intimately in touch with what you gain and invest and how the action is moving your professional goals along. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22). Here's something to keep in mind as you go about your week: Everyone is multidimensional. Don't underestimate those around you or assume you know their next move. Also, don't assume you know what you are capable of. There's more to you than you know. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23). Objective wanting is when you like the idea of something. Really wanting something is when you're willing to invest your energy, time and being into the thing you want. You're still on the fence about how far to take a certain "want." Why rush to decide? Stand back and observe for a while. You won't regret it. SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 21). Don't be fooled into thinking that the person who is handed opportunities will be more successful than you. The one who carves out opportunities is far better off because that person won't have to wait for the next great offer. Life isn't about getting a chance; it's about taking a chance. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21). Life has the feel of a scavenger hunt. A series of small, easily solvable predicaments will lead you down this winding path of a week. There may be a prize at the end, but it's nothing compared to the fun and satisfaction that come from solving each puzzle.

TRAVELING WITH A STRANGER IS RISKY WAY TO SAVE MONEY

DEAR ABBY: I am planning a trip to Thailand next year and would like to find a traveling partner. I don't care whether the person is male or female. My plan is to visit the country and rent a cabin for a month. My interest is solely to share expenses and have a platonic relationship with my travelmate because going alone is very expensive. Thanks for whatever input you can give me. -- TRAVELER FROM KANSAS CITY DEAR TRAVELER: You're welcome. My "input" is to urge you to rethink this. I do NOT recommend that you go to a foreign country and rent a cabin in the middle of nowhere with someone you don't know because it could be dangerous. What if there is a medical emergency or your companion has misrepresented him- or herself? Traveling, even with someone you DO know, can present problems unless you have a high degree of compatibility and similar habits. Lowbudget tours are available, and I urge you to research them. ** DEAR ABBY: A few weeks ago my husband and I were having an argument. He stormed out of the house and was killed in a wreck while talking to his brother on his cellphone. His family blames me for arguing with him. While I feel sad that the last thing we did was argue, I feel his brother should shoulder some of the blame because he was on the cellphone with him, which is illegal in our state. Luckily, no one else was hurt in the crash, but I am very hurt that "John's" family is so angry at me. Please remind folks not to drive while on a cellphone. -- IDAHO WIDOW DEAR WIDOW: Please accept my sympathy for the tragic loss of your husband. It is important you understand that your former in-laws are angry at the fact that he is dead, and are looking for someone other than him to blame for their pain. If your brother-in-law knew John was on his cellphone while driving, then I'm sure he carries some guilt about it. But the fault lies with your husband, rest his angry soul. P.S. If your letter serves as a reminder to readers not to use a cellphone -- or text -- while driving, his death will not have been in vain. ** DEAR ABBY: I am dating a recently divorced man who was married to a very controlling woman for 31 years. I love him very much and see myself with him in the future. However, at the age of 53, he is interested in pursuing a singing career. I dated a musician for 16 years and I do not want a relationship with another one. I'm pretending to be supportive because I don't want to be another woman telling him what to do or stifling his dreams. Inside I am dreading it. I become physically ill when I think of losing another man to music. On the other hand, I can't imagine my life without him. Should I continue to pretend to support him and hope he fails, or let him know that I don't want to be with a musician? -OUT OF TUNE IN DAYTON, OHIO DEAR OUT OF TUNE: It is in neither of your best interests for you to continue lying to him because the truth will come to light eventually. He is not the person you dated for 16 years, so let him pursue his dream. The odds of a 53-year-old man becoming an overnight national sensation are long, but after 31 years of misery with his ex, if he can enjoy some success on the local level, please don't begrudge him. ** Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Write Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069. ** Good advice for everyone -- teens to seniors -- is in "The Anger in All of Us and How to Deal With It." To order, send your name and mailing address, plus check or money order for $7 (U.S. funds) to: Dear Abby, Anger Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447. (Shipping and handling are included in the price.)
COPYRIGHT 2012 UNIVERSAL UCLICK

EnErgy ExprEss...
Continued from page 7

Exercise more. Eat real food, in reasonable portions. Learn to cook and enjoy simple, healthy meals. Meditate daily. Make sure your kids eat well and play often. And liberate yourself by learning to embrace change, not fear it.
ENERGY EXPRESS-O! START TODAY This is your life. You are responsible for it. You will not live forever. Don't wait. Natalie Goldberg Marilynn Preston fitness expert, well-being coach and speaker on healthy lifestyle issues is the creator of Energy Express, the longest-running syndicated fitness column in the country. She has a website, http://marilynnpreston.com and welcomes reader questions, which can be sent to MyEnergyExpress@aol.com.
COPYRIGHT 2012 ENERGY EXPRESS, LTD.

Back To School Trends....

For the boys:
Continued from page 6

Hoodies By now, a collegiate favorite, the hoodie is updated with a lining of super-soft cotton Sherpa fleece.

Five-pocket corduroy pants Jeans may be an all-time basic, but cords are back in style in pigment-dyed rich colors such as rust, blue, mahogany and gray. Long-sleeved button downs Whether it's a colorful
washed oxford or a long-sleeve plaid shirt, these are classics that will mix and match with denims and cords alike.
Sharon Mosley is a former fashion editor of the Arkansas Gazette in Little Rock and executive director of the Fashion Editors and Reporters Association.
COPYRIGHT 2012 CREATORS.COM

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Now Showing THE WATCH

Open Nationwide 07/27/12 Runtime 98 min MPAA Rating R for some strong sexual content including references, pervasive language and viollent images. Starring Ben Stiller, Vince Vaughn, Jonah Hill, Richard Ayoade, Rosemarie DeWitt Genre Comedy, SciFi/Fantasy Synopsis Four everyday suburban guys come together to form a neighborhood watch group, but only as an excuse to escape their humdrum lives, one night a week. When they accidentally discover that their town has become overrun with aliens posing as ordinary suburbanites, they have no choice but to save their neighborhood -- and the world -- from total extermination.

Premiere Cinemas
6101 Gateway West S.15 Schedule good for July 27th
ABRAHAM LINCOLN VAMPIRE HUNTER 2-D (R) 11:00a 1:50p 4:40p 7:45p 10:35p *BRAVE 2-D (PG) 10:50a 11:25a 1:35p 2:10p 4:20p 5:00p 7:05p 7:45p 9:50p 10:30p *CARTAS A ELENA (NR) 10:30a 1:20p 4:05p 6:50p 9:40p CHILD'S PLAY (R) 7:30p *ICE AGE: CONTINENTAL DRIFT 2-D (PG) 10:10a 11:15a 12:45p 1:50p 3:20p 4:25p 5:55p 8:30p *ICE AGE: CONTINENTAL DRIFT 3-D (PG) 10:45a 1:20p 3:55p 6:30p 7:00p 9:05p 9:35p MADAGASCAR 3: EUROPE'S MOST WANTED 2D (PG) 10:45a 11:15a 1:40p 2:05p 4:25p 4:50p 7:10p 9:55p 10:25p *MAGIC MIKE (R) 10:05a 10:50a 1:00p 1:45p 4:00p 4:40p 6:55p 7:35p 9:50p 10:30p *SAFETY NOT GUARANTEED (R) 12:05p 2:35p 5:05p 7:35p 10:05p *SAVAGES (R) 10:00a 11:45a 1:20p 3:00p 4:35p 6:15p 7:50p 9:30p *THE AMAZING SPIDERMAN 2-D (PG-13) 10:15a 1:35p 7:10p 10:35p *THE AMAZING SPIDERMAN 3-D (PG-13) 10:45a 11:15a 12:30p 2:05p 2:35p 3:50p 4:55p 5:25p 5:55p 8:15p 8:45p 9:15p *THE AMAZING SPIDERMAN 3-D DBOX(PG-13)11:15a 2:35p 5:55p 9:15p * -- denotes Pass Restricted features

CINEMARK CIELO VISTA

Gateway West Blvd/Cielo Vista Mall

Schedule good for Friday July 27th

Step Up RevolutionPG-1399 Mins RealD 3D 11:00am | 2:00pm | 5:00pm | 8:00pm Digital Cinema 10:00am | 1:00pm | 4:00pm | 7:00pm | 10:00pm The Watch R98 Mins Digital Cinema 10:10am | 11:10am | 1:10pm | 2:10pm | 4:10pm | 5:10pm | 7:10pm | 8:10pm | 10:10pm The Dark Knight Rises PG-13165 Mins Digital Cinema 10:00am | 10:45am | 11:30am | 12:15pm | 1:45pm | 2:30pm | 3:15pm | 4:00pm | 5:30pm | 6:15pm | 7:00pm | 7:45pm | 9:15pm | 10:00pm | 10:45pm Katy Perry: Part of Me PG95 Mins RealD 3D 10:05am Ted R106 Mins Digital Cinema 10:25am | 1:25pm | 4:25pm | 7:25pm | 10:25pm Tyler Perry's Madea's Witness Protection PG-13114 MinsDigital Cinema 1:05pm | 4:05pm | 7:05pm | 10:05pm To Rome With LoveR95 MinsDigital Cinema10:40am 1:40pm 4:40pm 7:40pm | 10:40pm PrometheusR124 MinsDigital Cinema 9:15pm For Greater GloryR145 Mins Digital Cinema10:05am | 1:50pm | 5:30pm Moonrise KingdomPG-1393 Mins Digital Cinema 10:20am | 1:20pm | 4:20pm | 7:20pm | 10:20pm Marvel's The AvengersPG-13140 Mins RealD 3D11:15am | 6:30pm Digital Cinema 2:45pm | 10:15pm

CINEMARK 14 - EL PASO
West side of El Paso at Mesa & I-10

Schedule good for Friday July 27th

Step Up Revolution PG-1399 Mins RealD 3D 9:55am | 12:55pm | 3:50pm | 7:20pm | 10:25pm Digital Cinema 8:55am | 12:05pm | 3:15pm | 6:25pm | 9:35pm The Watch R98 Mins Digital Cinema 9:05am | 10:15am | 12:00pm | 1:40pm | 3:05pm | 4:45pm | 5:50pm | 8:00pm | 9:00pm | 11:00pm The Dark Knight Rises PG-13165 Mins Cinemark XD 10:30am | 2:45pm | 7:30pm | 11:25pm Digital Cinema 9:00am | 9:30am | 10:00am | 12:50pm | 1:30pm | 2:15pm | 4:40pm | 6:00pm | 7:00pm | 8:30pm | 10:00pm | 10:55pm Ice Age: Continental Drift PG94 Mins RealD 3D 10:45am | 1:25pm | 4:15pm | 7:05pm | 9:40pm Digital Cinema 9:10am | 11:55am | 3:00pm | 6:05pm | 9:10pm Savages R131 Mins Digital Cinema 9:15am | 12:35pm | 4:20pm | 7:45pm | 11:15pm The Amazing Spider-Man PG-13135 Mins RealD 3D 2:55pm | 9:45pm Digital Cinema 9:25am | 12:45pm | 6:50pm Ted R106 Mins Digital Cinema 9:05am | 11:50am | 2:35pm | 5:25pm | 8:15pm | 11:05pm Brave PG95 Mins RealD 3D 9:20am | 12:05pm | 6:35pm Digital Cinema 4:05pm | 10:10pm

EAST POINTE MOVIES 12 Schedule good for 07/27 - 08/02 I-10 & Lee Trevino
BATTLESHIP(PG-13) 11:10a 2:05p 6:20p 9:15p CABIN IN THE WOODS (R) 11:55a 2:40p 5:05p 7:35p 9:55p CHIMPANZEE(G) 2:20p 7:05p DARK SHADOWS (PG-13) 11:35a 2:10p 4:50p 7:25p 10:00p DR. SEUSS' THE LORAX 2-D(PG) 12:00p 2:15p 4:30p DR. SEUSS' THE LORAX 3-D(PG) 11:20a 1:35p 3:50p 6:05p 8:20p GIRL IN PROGRESS(PG-13) 11:40a 2:00p 4:35p 6:50p 9:25p JOURNEY 2 THE MYSTERIOUS ISLAND 3-D(PG) 11:50a 2:35p 5:15p 7:30p 9:50p ROCK OF AGES(PG-13) 11:30a 4:20p 9:05p SNOW WHITE AND THE HUNTSMAN (PG-13) 11:15a 2:30p 6:30p 9:40p THE DICTATOR(R) 11:25a 1:50p 4:40p 7:10p 9:20p THE HUNGER GAMES(PG-13) 11:00a 2:05p 5:10p 7:00p 8:30p 10:05p WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN EXPECTING(PG-13) 11:05a 1:40p 4:10p 6:40p 9:10p

TINSELTOWN
Las Palmas i-10 @ Zaragosa

Schedule good for Friday July 27th

Step Up Revolution PG-1399 Mins RealD 3D 9:30am | 12:10pm | 2:50pm | 5:30pm | 8:10pm | 10:50pm Digital Cinema 10:45am | 1:25pm | 4:05pm | 7:05pm | 9:45pm Midnight Showtimes (Late Friday Night) 12:10am The Watch R98 Mins Digital Cinema 10:00am | 11:20am | 12:45pm | 2:05pm | 3:30pm | 4:50pm | 6:15pm | 7:30pm | 9:05pm | 10:25pm Midnight Showtimes (Late Friday Night) 12:05am The Dark Knight Rises PG-13165 Mins Cinemark XD 11:05am | 3:00pm | 7:00pm | 10:40pm Digital Cinema 9:45am | 10:25am | 11:45am | 12:25pm | 1:00pm | 1:40pm | 2:20pm | 3:40pm | 4:20pm | 5:00pm | 5:40pm | 6:20pm | 7:40pm | 8:20pm | 9:00pm | 9:40pm | 10:10pm | 11:40pm | 11:55pm Ice Age: Continental Drift PG94 Mins RealD 3D 9:55am | 12:50pm | 1:15pm | 4:00pm | 6:30pm | 7:10pm | 9:50pm | 11:50pm Digital Cinema 10:15am | 11:15am | 2:25pm | 4:55pm | 5:35pm | 8:05pm | 10:05pm | 10:30pm Savages R131 Mins Digital Cinema 9:50am | 1:05pm | 4:25pm | 7:35pm | 10:45pm Katy Perry: Part of Me PG95 Mins RealD 3D 11:30am | 2:15pm | 5:05pm The Amazing Spider-Man PG13135 Mins RealD 3D 10:30am | 2:00pm | 5:15pm | 8:30pm | 11:45pm Digital Cinema 12:00pm | 3:20pm | 6:45pm | 10:00pm Magic Mike R110 Mins Digital Cinema 9:40am | 12:30pm | 4:10pm | 7:20pm | 10:15pm Ted R106 Mins Digital Cinema 10:35am | 1:30pm | 4:30pm | 7:15pm | 10:35pm Tyler Perry's Madea's Witness Protection PG-13114 Mins Digital Cinema 7:45pm | 10:55pm Brave PG95 Mins RealD 3D 10:05am | 3:50pm | 9:10pmDigital Cinema 2:10pm | 7:25pm

Schedule good for 7/27

AMAZING SPIDERMAN 2D (PG13)

11:00 | 2:10 | 2:40 | 5:20 | 8:30 | 11:45 | 12:10am AMAZING SPIDERMAN 3D (PG13) 11:30 | 5:50 | 9:00 BRAVE 2D (PG)11:30 | 1:55 | 4:20 | 6:45 | 9:10 DARK KNIGHT RISES, THE (PG13) 10:30 | 12:00 | 12:30 | 1:30 | 2:05 | 3:30 | 4:00 | 5:00 | 5:40 | 7:00 | 7:45 | 8:30 | 9:15 | 10:30 | 11:20 | 12:00am ICE AGE:CONTINTENTAL DRIFT 2D (PG) 10:30 | 12:50 | 3:10 | 5:30 | 7:50 | 10:10 ICE AGE:CONTINTENTAL DRIFT 3D (PG) 11:15 | 1:45 | 4:15 | 7:05 | 9:35 MAGIC MIKE (R) 1:50 | 7:35 SAVAGES (R) 10:45 | 4:30 | 10:15 STEP UP 4: 2D (NR) 12:30 | 3:00 | 5:25 | 7:50 | 10:15 STEP UP 4: 3D (NR) 11:30 | 2:00 | 4:30 | 7:15 | 9:45 | 12:15am T.P.MADEA WITNESS PROTECTION (PG13) 10:30 | 1:15 | 4:00 | 7:15 | 10:00 TED (R) 10:45 | 1:25 | 4:05 | 7:00 | 9:40 | 12:15am THE WATCH (R) 10:50 | 12:00 | 1:25 | 2:35 | 4:10 | 5:10 | 6:50 | 7:45 | 9:25 | 10:15 | 12:00am

PREMIERE MONTWOOD 7 2200 N. Yarbrough

Schedule good for 7/27 - 8/2

BATTLESHIP (PG-13) 12:00p 3:05p 6:10p 9:05p DARK SHADOWS (PG-13) 11:50a 2:20p 4:50p 7:15p 9:40p PIRATES! BAND OF MISFITS (PG) 12:15p 2:25p 4:40p ROCK OF AGES (PG-13) 11:10a 1:40p 4:10p 6:45p 9:20p

SNOW WHITE & THE HUNTSMAN (PG-13) 11:00a 1:40p 4:20p 7:00p 9:40p THE DICTATOR (R) 7:10p 9:30p THE HUNGER GAMES (PG-13) 11:05a 2:05p 5:05p 8:05p THE LORAX (PG) 11:00a 1:05p 3:10p 5:20p 7:25p 9:25p

SPOTLIGHTEPNEWS.COM JULY 26, 2012 PAGE 13

Nightlife calendar
July 27th SUPERNITE W/ NANCY August 6th

Saint Motel and

Races@Lowbrow Palace
Sept 1st

SUN CITY MUSIC FESTIVAL Sept. 1st &

2nd SCMF LABOR DAY WEEKEND MG Events & Disco Donnie present 2nd Annual SCMF // SUN CITY MUSIC FESTIVAL 3 stages // 1 weekend // Massive Music Festival

WHANG (LCD SOUNDSYSTEM, THE JUAN MACLEAN, DFA RECORDS) with opening sets by THE DA (DJ SET) FORE (juarez / terrible children) 18+ WELCOME $10 PRESALE TIX

SPOTLIGHTEPNEWS.COM JULY 26, 2012 PAGE 14

Thomas Gold
It has been a landmark year for Thomas Gold you couldnt step inside the worlds finest clubs this year without hearing a Thomas Gold original track, collaboration or remix blasting from the speakers at some point during the evening.

New Music July 31st

Benny Benassi - Cavo Paradiso 12

As a DJ, quite simply, Thomas Gold is known for having amongst the most impeccable programming and mixing skills in the business. When asked by DJ Mag to name their upcoming DJ/producer of 2011, Swedish House Mafia, Axwell, Sander van Doorn, Cosmic Gate (and more) had one name in common Thomas Gold. As a producer, Thomas Gold focuses on quality over quantity. As a DJ, Thomas Gold played all the right places. The impressive list includes coveted spots on Swedish House Mafias legendary Masquerade Motel Miami, EDC Las Vegas Swedish House Mafia (main) stage, Size Matters Governors Island, NYC, Tomorrowland main stage, Pacha Ibiza alongside Swedish House Mafia, Creamfields UK main stage and SHM stage, Escape From Wonderland Halloween Size Matters Stage, Sankeys Club, Manchester, Space Miami (headline), Pacha NYC (headline) and Ministry Of Sound (headline), among others.

Blur - 2 CD Reissues Blur - Blur 21 Box Set Neil Diamond - Hot August Night (40th Anniversary) Reel Big Fish - Candy Coated Fury Mike Jones - Greatest Hits & Dirty Dubstep Locust - Molecular Genetics From the Go Marillion - This Strange Engine Pond - Pond Quantic Soul Orchestra - Pushin' On Joshua Radin - Underwater Rick Ross - God Forgives I Don't

Soundtrack - Sparkle Joss Stone - Soul Sessions Vol. 2

Testament - Dark Roots of Earth Thenewno2 - Thefearofmissingout Toadies - Play.Rock.Music Various Artists - Putumayo Presents Arabic Beat Various Artists - Rough Guide to China Various Artists - Rough Guide to Scandinavia Various Artists - Rough Guide to Undiscovered World Versus the World - Drink.Sing.Live.Love.

SPOTLIGHTEPNEWS.COM JULY 26, 2012 PAGE 15

NEXT UP...

SPRINT CUP
Race: Curtiss Shaver 400 at the Brickyard Where: Indianapolis Motor Speedway When: Sunday, 12 p.m. (ET) TV: ESPN 2011 Winner: Paul Menard (right)

NATIONWIDE SERIES
Race: Indy 250 Where: Indianapolis Motor Speedway When: Saturday, 4 p.m. (ET) TV: ESPN Inaugural race

CAMPING WORLD TRUCKS

Race: Pocono Mountains 125 Where: Pocono Raceway When: August 4, 12:30 p.m. (ET) TV: SPEED 2011 Winner: Kevin Harvick

By RICK MINTER / Universal Uclick

2011 winner: Time is now to work on this year

Jeff Burton, is 19th in the standings, 120 points away from 10th. Realistically, the only way either Menard or Burton could make the 12-driver field for the 10-race, season-ending, championshipdeciding Chase is to win a race or two in the next six races, the final ones of the 26-race regular season. During the off-week before the Brickyard, Menard had time to participate in the NASCAR teleconference and reflect on his win of a year ago. We were fortunate enough to win the race last year and kiss the bricks, and [would] like to do that again, for sure, he said. He said he often thinks back to his heartwarming win over Jeff Gordon, Regan Smith and Jamie McMurray. Ive got the trophy in a spot right between my bedroom and the kitchen, so I walk by it a dozen times a day at least, he said. Ive got a lot of little things, pictures. A fan at a Menards store a couple of months back gave me some T-shirts from the race, from the inaugural race in 1994, up to last years race. Little keepsakes like that. One lady made him a quilt. Its a huge quilt that Ive got in our living room downstairs, he said. Just a bunch of things. Its not really well organized, a lot of pictures, some montages and stuff, but got a little bit here and there throughout the house. A lot of reminders every day for sure. Backing up his Brickyard win is going to be difficult, and is going to require improved performance from his team, as he acknowledged. In order to contend for race wins, we have got to get better, and we all understand that, and we are all working hard towards it, he said, adding that he was encouraged by his performance at Pocono Raceway, a long track with flat turns that has similar characteristics to Indy. We had a good run, qualified third and finished ninth at Pocono and a lot of those things translate back over to Indy, he said. I look forward to going to Indy. We are bringing a new car. Its one that we ran at Richmond, but we wrecked it, broke the throttle and wrecked the car. Continues on next page

Paul Menard kisses the bricks after winning the 2011 Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. (NASCAR photo) year ago, Paul Menard scored a surprising victory in the Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, delivering his father John Menard an Indy win that had eluded him in years of owning and sponsoring cars at the famed track. Besides his breakthrough Cup win, Paul Menard scored three other top-five finishes last year, made a run at a Chase berth and wound up a career-best 17th in Sprint Cup points.

As the circuit returns to the Brickyard this week, Menard is 15th in the standings, 79 points away from 10th place and a Chase berth. Hes still seeking his first top-five of the season and has four top 10s in a year that has seen his Richard Childress Racing organization struggle to find speed at many tracks. Although one teammate, Kevin Harvick, is sixth in the standings, he has just three top-five finishes, the fewest of any driver in the top 10. The other teammate,

SPOTLIGHTEPNEWS.COM JULY 26, 2012 PAGE 16

Budget-minded Kia Rio comes full circle

By Christopher A. Randazzo

Paul Menard...

Years ago when I

last drove a Kia Rio, I had mixed emotions about the entry level car from the Korean automaker. The Rio drove fine and was comfortable, but it was hardly a car that was exciting to drive, look at or be in. Basically it was a good but forgettable form of transportation. For 2012, Kia has redesigned the Rio and showing that the third times a charm, this third generation Rio is so impressive it will be hard to forget. Like those before it, the new Rio is available as a four-door sedan or a five-door hatchback. Its debatable which looks better I prefer the hatchback but everyone will agree that the new look of the Rio is a huge leap forward from the styling it had in its previous years. Credit goes to ex-Audi designer Peter Schreyer for giving the Rio its modern-day looks including its

switches for the climate control and are easy to use. And in typical Kia fashion, there are plenty of storage bins, cupholders and a huge glovebox. Like the previous Kia, the new Rios interior is well thought-out and very functional; the real difference now is that it is also very attractive and looks more expensive for what you would expect for in a car in this price range. rakish A-pillars and Kias traditional grille design. The new Rio is larger than the car it replaces and it shows with a roomier and nicer cabin. Up front seats are nice and comfortable and should accommodate just about anyone. The rear seat is roomy for most as long as youre under the six-foot mark. Behind the split-folding rear seat of the hatchback is a cargo space that can hold about 15 cubic feet of whatever. Fold both the seats down and that jumps to almost 50 cubic feet. The trunk in the sedan can carry 13.7 cubic feet of cargo. All those numbers are very respectable for a vehicle in this class. The Rio driver is met with a nicely felt steering wheel in front of a hooded instrument cluster. Thumbs up to Kia for making all the gauges analog as opposed to mixing in a digital gas gauge or temp gauge like others are doing. The center stack houses cool toggle-style The Rio shares its platform and powertrain with the Hyundai Accent its corporate cousin. It uses a 1.6 liter direct injection four-cylinder (same as the previous Rio) and makes a good 138 horsepower and 123 lb-ft of torque. Base LX models get a six-speed manual transmission while the mid-level EX and sporty SX get a six-speed automatic. The EPA rates all Rios at 30 mpg in town and 40 mpg on the highway. Continues on page 18

Paul Menard (right) signs an autograph for a fan at Pocono Raceway on August 5, 2011. (NASCAR photo)
Continued from page 15 This will be the first true test of this new car, and its been a pretty good one so far. So, hopefully, all goes well and we can repeat. Menard said that while hell be playing the role of and accepting the honors of defending winner this week, hes more focused on what happens when he straps in his car for practice, qualifying and the race on Sunday. What happened last year was great, and Ill always cherish it, he said. I have a lot of memorabilia from it, but the time now is to work on this year. And for him theres no bigger race on the schedule. I know for the sport, Daytona is considered the Super Bowl, but for me personally, theres no race I would rather win than the Brickyard 400, and to be a two-time winner there would be even better yet, he said.

SPOTLIGHTEPNEWS.COM JULY 26, 2012 PAGE 17

SPOTLIGHTEPNEWS.COM JULY 26, 2012 PAGE 18

Budget-minded Kia Rio...

Continued from page 16 My tester was an EX five-door hatchback. Being an EX, it had features that the base model comes with like A/C and power accessories, but also gets nicer alloy wheels, a chrome grille, cruise control and a better audio system. A convenience package for the EX (an extra $1000) added in fog lights and a rear backup camera. The SX By The Numbers: model really decks out the Rio with 17 alloy wheels, a sport tuned suspension, dual exhaust tips and LED front and real lighting. Options on the SX include a sunroof, heated seats and a navigation system. As I drove my Signal Red Rio around for a week, I was surprised to find it being a fun-todrive small car. Now, its no Mini Cooper, but for what it is, it drove well, staying planted in corners, and gave me plenty of feedback. It felt very light on its feet, so not a lot of power is needed from the 1.6 liter four to get it going. And in some ways that a good thing, for the Rios motor gets a bit buzzy above 3,000 RPMS. The sixspeed automatic did its job nicely, but I would like to see Kia offer the higher-end Rios with the six-speed manual. Still, the Kia Rio is a real eyeopener and easily impressed everyone that rode with me. I used to say that Kia made the best boring cars. I cant say they are boring anymore. Using the underpinning from the previous generation which did its job well and now giving it a styling and interior makeover, the Kia Rio has come full circle.

2012 Kia Rio EX 5-door

Base Price: $16,500.00 Price as Tested: $18,345.00 Layout: front-engine / front-wheel drive Engine: 1.6 liter direct-injection 4-cylinder Transmission: 6-speed automatic Horsepower: 138 hp Torque: 123 ft/lb EPA Fuel Economy: 30 city / 40 highway mpg [Visit me at www.carsbycar.blogspot.com or email me at autocran@gmail.com]

SPOTLIGHTEPNEWS.COM JULY 26, 2012 PAGE 19