Mature Arkansas, Dec 29 2011

Mature Arkansas DECEMBER 29, 2011

Dance Your Way to Health Dancing's good for body and soul Page 8

ALSO in this issue

The Gold Standard of BBQ page 4

Live Long and Healthy page 12

Try Social Media page 14

MATURE ARKANSAS

decemBER 29, 2011

1

LETTER T O t he editor

E D I T O RI A L

The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks doesn't forget about our veterans

The Village Can Help

I

illary Rodham Clinton famously wrote, on the African parable, it takes a village to rear a child. That village is also essential to care for older Arkansans.

A colleague’s 85-year-old grandfather, in the throes of early dementia, drove away from his home in October. He was last seen in a doughnut shop, 50 miles away from home at 5:00 AM, asking directions home.

His body was just found, near his home, next to his overturned car in a dry creek bed. The family and local authorities had been searching for him since October. We can only wonder if the outcome would have been different if “the village” had stepped up sooner.

Who was there to have “the talk” with him about not driving anymore? That’s a thorny issue for families to do alone. They need an outside authority to “take the blame” because no one wants to give up the independence their car provides.

Would the outcome have been different if someone who knew him had offered help or called the family from that doughnut shop?

We live in a society where, just perhaps, we mind our own business too much.

And often at the peril of those who are weaker, or lost, or struggling with dementia.

Would the outcome have been different if he had received a specific diagnosis of dementia? A heartbreaking diagnosis to be sure, but one that can push families to take proactive and positive actions. In early dementia, there’s still time to get your affairs in order and take precautions to guard against the inevitable confusion and lost episodes.

In just the last decade, deaths from Alzheimer’s disease—the best known of the many forms of dementia—have risen 66%.

During the same period, deaths have declined for most other major diseases.

Someone develops Alzheimer’s disease every 69 seconds. We will all eventually come face-to-face with this most hideous of diseases; one that robs us of our loved ones long before they die.

We will most certainly face it in our communities, possibly in our family and maybe in ourselves. Are we prepared? No individual is ever ready to face dementia; few families are prepared. But as a village, there are important things we can do.

enjoyed Bob Wood’s article about BPOE 1004 (Mature Arkansas, Dec. 15, 2011, pg. 12). Having been a member myself for only about 15 years, I am falling into the ranks of what can be described as one of the older members. We have a lot of younger members who have joined for the fellowship, charitable work and, of course, the joy of having a lounge to go to where, well, where everyone knows your name.

One correction, BPOE stands for the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks.

Thanks for the advertisement of our Beans and Soup Thursday.

This runs from September to April and offers potato, vegetable and chicken noodle soup on rotating Thursdays, along with beans. We do this as a part of fundraising events for our two main charities: the VA Hospital and the Conway Human Development Center.

A little trivia about the Elks, we are credited with helping create the first VA Hospital in the U.S. and we continue to support our vets. We provide those confined to the hospital with socks, underwear, clothing, books, pizza parties, etc. We believe we should never forget our veterans.

So again, thanks for the PR and ya’ll come back now, you hear!

Andy Phillips North Little Rock

We Want To Hear From YOU

Mature arkansas DECEMBER 29, 2011

MATURE ARKANSAS welcomes letters or emails from readers on any subject of interest to older Arkansans. Letters to columnists are also welcome.

Email your letters to annewasson@arktimes.com and include “letter” on the subject line.

Dance Your WaY to HealtH DANciNg'S gOOD fOR bODy AND SOUL page 8

ALSO iN ThiS iSSUE

The Gold Standard of BBQ pAgE 4

Live Long and Healthy pAgE 12

phone 501-375-2985

Try Social Media pAgE 14

MATURE ARKANSAS

decemBeR 29, 2011

1

Cover photo by brian chilson

Mature Arkansas Publisher Jim Gray Editor Anne Wasson Art Director Mike Spain Assistant to the Editor Paige Parham Account Executive Erin Holland Production Manager Weldon Wilson Production Assistant Tracy Whitaker ad Coordinators Roland Gladden Kelly Schlachter

Graphic Artists Bryan Moats Katie Cook Photographer Brian Chilson Controller Weldon Wilson Office Manager Angie Fambrough IT Director Robert Curfman Billing and Collections Linda Phillips Circulation Director Anitra Hickman

Mature Arkansas is published each week by Arkansas Times Limited Partnership, 201 East Markham Street, 200 Heritage Center West, P.O. Box 34010, Little Rock, Arkansas 72203, phone (501) 375-2985. Reproduction or use in whole or in part of the contents without the written consent of the publishers is prohibited. Manuscripts and artwork will not be returned or acknowledged unless sufficient return postage and a self-addressed stamped envelope are included. All materials are handled with due care, however, the publisher assumes no responsibility for care and safe return of unsolicited materials. All letters sent to Mature Arkansas will be treated as intended for publication and are subject to Mature Arkansas’ unrestricted right to edit or to comment editorially.

2 decemBER 29, 2011 MATURE ARKANSAS

By Anne Howard Wasson

H

Does “the village” recognize his worth as an elder of the tribe, as a source of

wisdom and guidance for

younger citizens?

Arkansas has a program called Silver Alert, modeled after the Amber Alert for missing children. Law enforcement can use it to send out statewide alerts for missing seniors or adults with dementia. Call your local sheriff first; he or she makes the decision about when to send the alert statewide, based on the possibility of imminent danger.

We can make sure our older loved ones are not isolated.

Socialization has a positive impact on both physical and mental health. Regular human contact can come in many forms: Volunteering, family time, exercise groups or gym attendance, religious activities, support groups, clubs or senior centers, hobbies, potlucks—the list is endless.

A good village does not segregate age groups. Did it foster opportunities for younger and older generations to connect? We know this helps both children and seniors in concrete ways. Could latch-key kids be directed to help seniors—both ages providing a presence that serves as supervision and enrichment for them both.

Is the village fostering a sense of purpose? Does it make a place for him to remain involved in community affairs? Does “the village” recognize his worth as an elder of the tribe, as a source of wisdom and guidance for younger citizens?

Does the village have adult day care services in place? Many families cannot afford to pay someone to watch over a senior who is no longer able to be left alone.

Families have to work and attend to the myriad details of life. And tragedies happen. A safe place to stay during the day gives families the break they need to earn a living and keep providing care.

Is the village paying attention, is it valuing its elders? Would this village help prevent heartbreaking stories such as my friends? You decide.

You have some very good You have some very good You haveChoices some very good in Living.

Choices Choices in in Living.

Living. u Do you need help for aging parents? u Are you looking for alternatives to living in a nursing home? u for yourself, u Do Do you you need need assistance help for aging parents? a family member or friend? uso,Are Dotheyou need help foralternatives aging parents? u you looking living may in a nursing If Choices infor Living ResourcetoCenter be able tohome? help you. u youneed looking for alternatives to living in a nursing u Are Do you assistance for yourself, a family memberhome? or friend?

CALL toll-free: 1-866-801-3435 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. / Monday through Friday.

If so, the ChoicesCALL in Living8toll-free: Resource Center may be able to help you.

1-866-801-3435 CHOICES uso,DotheyouChoices need assistance for yourself, a family friend?

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8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. / Monday through JO -JWJOH Friday.

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MATURE ARKANSAS

decemBER 29, 2011

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Restaurant g u ide

The Gold Standard in Little Rock Barbecue

By Bob Wood

I

s there any other name that evokes as much barbecue nostalgia in Little Rock as“The Shack?”

I don’t think so and it’s practically Pavlovian.

When you mention the name to some folks, their eyes begin to mist up and they struggle for appropriate words to describe their personal experiences with the place. I’m not kidding.

Casey Slaughter opened the doors of The Shack in Little Rock in 1938. The place proceeded to become synonymous with excellent BBQ sandwiches in Little Rock. No small accomplishment, that.

I spent most of my adolescence growing up in Baltimore, Maryland, but my parents were Arkansans who returned most summers to visit their folks. This entailed long, hot car trips from East to South. And, I always knew when we were getting close. My Dad would grudgingly pull the Ford over for gas (let’s just say he was not one to be easily deterred from his 550-mile daily goal by a little whining and pleading from the backseat). The car would stop, the doors would fly open, and we would all make our mad dashes to the service station’s “restroom.”Afterward, I would discover cold Dr. Peppers chilling in the station’s drink cooler.

Ahh. My mother was more of a Grapette fan, but the wonderfully sweet taste of a “10, 2

4 decemBER 29, 2011 MATURE ARKANSAS

and 4” Dr. Pepper meant we had entered the mystical South.

Later, I had my first real BBQ at The Shack and I was stunned. It didn’t taste like any other thing I had ever eaten before. It was chopped, smoked pork, topped with shredded cabbage. The vinegary, sharp sauce was difficult to describe.

It was very different. But, most importantly, it was very, very good. I was hooked.

And that, my friends, is the provenance of H.B.’s Bar-B-Q on Lancaster Road, off 65th Street.

The late H.B. Slaughter was Casey’s brother — a direct, lineal descendant to legitimate barbecue royalty, i.e., the Smoked Pork Rothschilds of

Best BBQ in Little Rock.

Little Rock.

Today, I had a jumbo, chopped pork (if you ever doubted how misguided Texans truly are, just consider their fixation with beef ) sandwich, with BBQ beans, French fries and, yes, a Dr. Pepper. The sandwich was excellent.

The fries were from the freezer, but cooked very well. And, the beans were good, but … different. There was some spice lurking in the background I just couldn’t figure out.

I asked Ginny, the smiling face, big heart and excellent waitress of H.B.’s, what it was.

“Maple extract,” she said. Never would have guessed that one.

H.B.’s is open weekdays from 10:00 AM until 6:00 PM and they ONLY take cash. The tab for my plate, drink, and my friend’s hamburger (I pretended not to know her) and water came to $14.51. It’s also a tiny place and not very accessible; there might be a ramp somewhere, but I didn’t see one.

A visit to H.B.’s is pretty much like entering Doc Brown’s DeLorean, i.e., you leave 2012 and arrive in 1965. And, sometimes that can be very nice, indeed. It’s worth the effort to find, so give it a try.

HB’s BAR-B-Q, 6010 Lancaster Road, Little Rock, phone 565-1930.

CAitor LENDAR ed i al PICK S

Do You Want to Keep Learning neW things?

New Year's Eve Parties

By Paige Parham

Dec. 29 - 10th Annual Eclectic Collector Exhibit at Historic Arkansas Museum, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM. This exhibit features many toys and photographs of children with toys from the Civil War era, from a Little Enfield (child-sized version of the 1862 Model British Enfield rifled musket) to a Civil War era wooden drum with drumsticks. $1 for children; $2.50 for adults; call 501- 324-9351 for more information.

Dec. 31 - The Empress of Little Rock, 2120 Louisiana Street, Little Rock will host its New Year’s Eve Wine Dinner Dance at 8:00 PM. One of the top New Year’s Eve parties in central Arkansas, the evening includes food, wine, dancing, entertainment, excitement and the beginning of the New Year. The wine dinner dance at 8:00 PM will be followed by dancing in the parlors. Receive custom made Victorian mementos and dine to the strains of the 1870s Steinway piano.

Victorian attire encouraged but not required. Tickets are $200 per couple. For more information, visit www.theempress.com or contact Jessica Ledbetter at 501- 374-7966.

aDVentures in Learning

eight Week Winter term starts January 18, 2012 More than 30 Different Courses only $60 History • Current Events • Literature • Geography Language • Travel • Art • Fitness And More Adults Of All Ages • Daytime Classes Wednesdays & Thursdays

Complete Schedule Online at www.lifequestofarkansas.org

Second Presbyterian Church • 600 Pleasant Valley Drive • Little Rock

501-225-6073

➧

Does chronic constipation worry you?

Dec. 31 – The Arkansas Queen Riverboat has two ways to spend your New Year’s Eve. The early dinner cruise boards at 6:00 PM and will return to dock at 8:30 PM. Dinner features prime rib, salmon, veggies and dessert; dinner and cruise $48.95. The party cruise boards at 9:30 PM and will return at 12:30 AM. The party cruise is $29.95 and includes a champagne toast at midnight, party favors and on-board entertainment by the Jay Jackson Band. Cruises include a five to seven mile trip on the river and provide great viewing of the twin cities’ skyline. Free parking at the dock at 100 E. Riverfront Park Drive, North Little Rock. Reservations, call 501-372-5777.

Jan. 1 – First Day Hike, Pinnacle Mountain State Park, 11901 Pinnacle Valley Road, Little Rock. Start your New Year’s resolution to get outside, exercise and connect with nature at Pinnacle Mountain State Park and it’s FREE. Join a park interpreter from 2:00-3:00 PM for an easy hike around the paved Kingfisher Trail of Pinnacle Mountain. This is a beginners hike over a gentle half-mile loop trail. Call 868-5806 for more information.

Jan. 3 – Little Rock Wind Symphony Chamber Players“Sunday Serenade,” 3:00 - 4:15 PM; St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 2223 Durwood Rd, Little Rock. Enjoy a Sunday of Sarabandes, Serenades, and Soliloquies of great works for chamber winds. Sponsored by Chris Vanlandingham.

Admission: $10; $8 seniors, students Free. For more information, visit www. lrwindsymphony.org or call 501-666-0777.

Arkansas Gastroenterology is conducting a research study of an investigational medication for chronic constipation.

Potential study candidates: • Are at least 18 years old • Have been diagnosed with chronic constipation • Have fewer than 3 bowel movements a week (without the help of laxatives) • Are willing to take study medication or a placebo

You Could Earn up to $200.00 over 5 visits to our facility For more information or to schedule a screening, contact us at:

Arkansas Gastroenterology 3401 Springhill Dr, Suite 400 North Little Rock, AR 72117 501-945-9300

MATURE ARKANSAS

decemBER 29, 2011

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COitor NSUMER ed i al t ip

Early Retirees Need Health Coverage

By Ron Pollack, executive director, Families USA

P

lanning on retiring early? Be sure you still have health insurance.

Here are some places to look:

Keep watching for the date you

Early retiree coverage See if your employer provides early retiree health coverage. Many employers got help paying for retiree coverage through the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA), which encouraged them to maintain retiree benefits during these tough economic times and to reduce plan costs for retirees. In 2010, about 4.5 million retirees and dependents benefited from this help.

Spouse's employer plan Ask if you can get coverage through your spouse’s employer. If your spouse’s plan offers you coverage, you have a “special opportunity” to enroll when you lose your own jobbased coverage, even if it is not the normal open enrollment season.

COBRA Ask your employer if you are eligible for COBRA (or other “continuation” benefits). Be sure to apply and pay premiums within the deadlines. Though COBRA is expensive (you pay the full cost of premiums), it is probably a better deal than you could get if you shopped for an individual plan. Under COBRA, you won’t be charged more due to your health, and you can’t be denied coverage due to any pre-existing conditions.

Disability status If you are retiring due to disability, check with the Social Security Administration about applying for benefits. You will have to wait a number of months to receive Medicare, but applying for Social Security gets the process started.

Disabled veterans and federal employees should check their options under the Veterans Administration and the Federal Employees Health Plan, respectively. If your income is low and you have a permanent disability, you may 6 decemBER 29, 2011 MATURE ARKANSAS

can apply for

Medicare

— usually three months before you turn 65. You’ll need to apply soon

thereafter

to avoid late penalties. also qualify for Medicaid. There is no waiting period for Medicaid.

Uninsured options If you have no insurance now, before you retire, you may have trouble finding a plan that will accept you. Try the Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan, www.pcip.gov. This plan, established under the PPACA, covers people who have been uninsured for at least six months and who have a health condition or who have been turned down by other insurers based on their health. Premium costs are similar to costs for healthy people.

Once you find coverage for now, keep watching for the date you can apply for Medicare — usually three months before you turn 65. You’ll need to apply soon thereafter to avoid late penalties.

Full coverage in 2014 When the PPACA is fully implemented in 2014: • Adults will have more options for affordable insurance. You will be able to buy a policy through an “exchange” where you can easily compare plans. Insurance companies must

provide simple, easy-to-understand summaries of benefits.

• Many middle-income individuals and families will qualify for tax credits to help them pay the cost of premiums, and they will get help with other plan costs.

• Insurance companies can no longer reject you or charge you more based on your health status or pre-existing conditions. This is a provision that will help many people in the 55 to 64-year-old age group. Studies show that uninsured people in this age group are especially likely to have chronic conditions, forgo needed care, and to have been turned down by insurers based on their health status.

• More low-income adults will be able to get help through the Medicaid program. Most adults who earn less than 133% of the federal poverty level (about $19,564 for a family of two) will qualify. Older adults who have lost jobs and those with temporary disabilities will benefit from this Medicaid improvement.

For more information about your options and rights, go to www.familiesusa.org/ resources/program-locator/

Medicare

Man

CON SUMER tip

Transition Refills Can Help

Annual Wellness Visits and Eyecare Q. I feel fine so why should I go to the doctor for an Annual Wellness Visit?

A. Medicare Part B and Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C) pay the full cost for an Annual Wellness Visit for people who have had Medicare Part B longer than 12 months. There is no cost for the visit because the Part B deductible and 20% coinsurance do not apply and neither does the Part C copayment. The Wellness Visit is not a routine physical examination.

It is to develop or update a prevention plan with your doctor based on your current health. Preventive care helps prevent and identify disease early to increase the effectiveness of treatment.

Q. Does Medicare pay for eye care?

A. Medicare pays for eye care on a very limited

A

basis for chronic eye conditions, including: • People at high risk for glaucoma receive an annual eye exam. Those considered high risk include people with diabetes, those with a family history of glaucoma, African Americans age 50 and older, and Hispanics over 65.

• cataract surgery to replace the eye’s natural lens with a man-made intraocular lens • one pair of eye glasses after cataract surgery • an eye exam to diagnose potential vision problems, if the problems indicate a serious eye condition.

Submit questions to Medicare Man via email address insurance.shiip@arkansas.gov or call toll free 800-224-6330.

MEDIC AR E MAT T ERS

By Sally Johnson

Prescription Drug Safety Tips I

’ve been writing all month about Medicare’s prescription drug coverage and how to save money on your medications. Let’s focus on something even more important: taking drugs safely.

More than 700,000 people in the United States go to the emergency room each year because they’ve gotten sick from medications prescribed for them. And 120,000 of these people have to be admitted to the hospital for more treatment.

Older adults, who tend to take more medications prescribed for them, are more than twice as likely to be harmed.

There are some simple steps seniors can take to help prevent problems.

• Keep a list of all your medications, including how much you take and how often.

• Always read and follow directions on prescription bottles, especially for antibiotics and pain relievers.

• If your doctor says you you’ll need to have your blood monitored because you’re taking a certain medicine (such as warfarin, insulin for diabetes, or heart medicine), make sure you do it.

• Ask questions if you’re not sure you understand something.

• Always use the same pharmacy – if you see more than one doctor, you might get prescriptions for medications that shouldn’t be taken together. If the same pharmacy fills all your prescriptions, it’s easier to catch that kind of mistake.

Medications can work miracles to improve our health and quality of life, but they can also harm or even kill if taken incorrectly, so make sure you take precautions to protect yourself.

Sally Johnson is Benefit/Relations Director with the Arkansas Foundation for Medical Care.

transition refill is a one-time, 30-day supply of a drug that Medicare drug plans (Part D) must cover. This option is for new plan members or existing members whose drugs will no longer be covered during the next calendar year. Transition refills (or transition fills) let you get temporary coverage for drugs that aren’t on your plan’s formulary (list of covered drugs) or that have coverage restrictions on them.

Transition fills are not for new prescriptions. You can only get one if you were already taking the drug before you signed up for the plan or before the plan stopped covering it. You have 90 days after you join a plan to get a transition fill. If you’re an existing member of a plan, and your plan changes the coverage rules for your drug for the new calendar year, you have 90 days from the start of the year. Transition fills are temporary and usually you only get one.

If you realize your medication is being filled as a transition refill, call your doctor right away to talk about appealing your Part D plan’s decision or switching to a different drug your plan does cover. The plan must send you a notice within three business days to let you know that the prescription is being filled as a transition fill.

All Medicare Part D drug plans must offer transition fills. The same rules apply to drugs-only plans and Medicare Advantage plans that cover health and drugs. To get a transition refill, your pharmacist may need to call the Part D plan and ask them to cover the drug without restrictions. The plan may need to give something called an override code so the pharmacist can bill correctly.

—Medicare Rights Center

MATURE ARKANSAS

decemBER 29, 2011

7

anc� � Health and Happiness in the

�

By Erica Sweeney

D

ancing is fun, anyone would agree. Yet, when the music takes

Hays Center Director Charley Baxter. “It’s hold, most people don’t realize just how good it is for the body really important and soul. n Square dancing, line dancing and country and for us to maintain balance and strength western dancing improve overall physical, mental and emotional health as we age. It’s better and wellness. It can decrease stress, enhance self-esteem and improve for us to get up and around,” he says. cardiovascular health, brain function, balance, flexibility and coordinaStaying active tion. Dancing releases endorphins that “make us happy and alleviate and being part of a community is pain,” says Todd Price, CareLink’s Health and Wellness coordinator. essential for seniors, who can sometimes Dancing keeps your body in constant motion suffer from depression or general anxiety. for an extended period of time and gives you “You feel revived, energetic, renewed. You energy, says Brenda Griffin, 2011 president of feel good about yourself,” says Velma Smart the Arkansas State Square Dance Federation of the Maverick Mixers square dance club in and president of the national Singles Square Mabelvale. “You get a good workout in a night Dancers USA. During one hour of dancing, a of dancing, mentally and physically, and it’s 160-pound person can burn over 250 calories. good fellowship.”

Line dancing is a “fun way to exercise and The list of benefits goes on, but most impornot boring like regular exercise,” says Mary tant, it’s just plain fun. “Dancing is a big old tub Jo Wicks, 73. She regularly attends line dance of love. It’s an absolute joy,” says Anne classes at the Patrick Henry Hays Senior Cother, 80, a line dance instructor at Citizens Center in North Little Rock. “When I the Hays Center. “It’s body, mind and hear music, I want to dance, even if I’m tired. spirit all combined. You can’t get that I’ve been known to dance down the aisle of a anywhere else,” grocery store,” she says.

Peggy Brown has regularly attended All movement is good movement, fitness line dance classes at the Hays Center since it experts tell us. Dancing combines camaraderie opened in 2003. The 83-year-old sometimes and music with all of the benefits of exercise. instructs the class. She says dancing makes her This is particularly important as we age, says feel happy and keeps her active. “I’m afraid to

quit,” she says. “I’ll become inactive.

We just enjoy it. We can really get with it if we have good music.”

Dancing helps forget pains, physical, mental or emotional, says Olga Hedrick, 73. A native of Spain, she has been dancing all her life, but didn’t start line dancing until about 15 years ago. Now, she teaches line dancing classes at a senior center in Sherwood with rock ‘n’ roll and Latin-style music and attends classes whenever she can.

Dancing also provides an outlet for meeting new people and becoming part of a group, another important aspect of positive aging, says Baxter, 63. “It’s really important for seniors to be part of something. Being part of a group gives them a reason to be here at a specific time. It gives them a reason to get up and get dressed,” he says.

Smart, 57, says her fellow square dancers are like an extended family. Betty Gilliam, 67,

Dancing is a big old tub

8 decemBER 29, 2011 MATURE ARKANSAS

met her husband, Billy, while square dancing.

“You meet the nicest people,” says Gilliam.

“You’d give them your house keys. Square dancers love each other.”

The Maverick Mixers square dance club enjoys getting together as much as they enjoy square dancing.

Brian Chilson

There is such camaraderie among square dancers that each dance begins with a hug (the actual square dance term is “yellow rock”) as a greeting to fellow dancers, says Smart. At the end of a dance, dancers perform moves to thank one another and the caller.

“The hugs are contagious and make you feel better,” says Griffin. “You can walk in in a bad mood and walk out in a better mood. You start smiling and feeling good. Dancing is good for the soul.”

While all types of dance involve constant

the mind active,” Baxter says.

“You move your feet and arms differently each time with the music and it’s fun. They forget they are actually exercising,” Price says.

“Other activities have the same movement over and over. With dance, there are different songs and different routines. It keeps it exciting. It’s always new and refreshing.”

There is also variety in partners and music.

Line dancing and square dancing can incorporate all types of music: country, rock ‘n’ roll, even holiday music. Maverick Mixers caller Bill Strawn, 66, says his group most often dances to country music.

Singles enjoy line dancing because it doesn’t require a partner.

Singles are also welcome at square dancing and country dancing events, where dancers often switch partners. Baxter and Price say women often outnumber men at the dance classes at

of love. It’s an absolute joy.” movement, the movement is varied, forcing dancers to concentrate on steps and the flow of the dance. This is great brain stimulation.

“That little bit of change in a dance step keeps

their centers.

In square dancing, dancers focus on the caller’s direction. Smart says her group dances 16 beats per minute and everyone has to focus to stay in sync. Dances can be slower or faster depending on dancers’ skill levels and the caller’s direction.

Griffin says the average age of a square dancer is over 50, with some in their 80s and 90s. Griffin and the others hope to attract more people to their clubs, which are diminishing.

Gilliam says when she began square dancing in the 1970s, there were about 60 square dance clubs in the state; now, there are only about 20.

Gilliam and her husband live in Monticello and drive 200 miles to Monroe, Louisiana, every Monday night to dance because there are no clubs in their area.

Even though the skill and ability of dancers can vary, individuals of all ages, levels and abilities can participate in dance. Dancers simply do what they can do. “Having two left feet MATURE ARKANSAS

decemBER 29, 2011

9

photo courtesy carelink

Bonnie Robertson, who along with her husband, Richard, started country and western dancing in the early 1990s, when they were in their 40s. They decided to take lessons after seeing an elderly couple dancing at BJ’s (now Electric Cowboy nightclub in Little Rock). Country and western dancing offers such a variety, blending country music with ballroom dancing, twostep and line dancing.

“We have fun, kid around, laugh and act silly,” says Bonnie Robertson, 64. “We don’t feel any older than we did when we were in college.”

“You’re never too old to learn anything,” says Connie Evans, a line dance instructor at the Jacksonville Senior Wellness and Activity Center. “Once they start, they want to learn more and they are very enthusiastic about learning new things.”

There are square dance, line dance and country dance clubs all over the state. Club get-togethers are social events with plenty of dancing and fellowship, and sometimes even food. There are often themed dances and parties, and lessons are provided.

The Robertsons are part of the Little Rock Country D a n c e rs c l u b, w h e re newcomers are always welcome, Robertson says.

The Maverick Mixers provides lessons to newcomers, giving them the opportunity to dance with “angels” (the term for experienced square dancers). Griffin, 57, says lessons familiarize individuals with the dance and help them learn the calls and the associated movements.

In square dance, there are about 50 basic move-

Line dancing groups meet three times a week at the Hays Center in North Little Rock.

doesn’t hurt as long as you can take direction and know left and right,” says Gilliam.

The ladies at the Hays Center line dance class all agree that it doesn’t matter how good a dancer a participant is. Anyone can join the class. “We don’t care if you mess up,” Wicks says.

“It’s never too late to start dancing,” says

When I hear music, I want to dance, even if I’m tired.

Want to Start Dancing?

Square Dancing The Maverick Mixers dance on the first, third and fifth Saturdays at 7:30 PM at the American Legion Hut at Mann Road and Leah Lane in Mabelvale. For more information, call 501-8606624. Fees to join the club are $8 a month for singles and $15 for couples.

Visit the Arkansas State Square Dance Federation website for more information about square dance clubs in your area: www.assdf.com.

Line Dancing CareLink offers line dance and country dance classes throughout central Arkansas for anyone 60 and older. Class times and locations vary for each senior center. For information, contact your local senior center or call 501-372-5300.

10 decemBER 29, 2011 MATURE ARKANSAS

ments and six levels from beginning to challenging.

Strawn says it takes about 20 weeks to learn to square dance. “You don’t need three years of Julliard,” he says. “We’re very patient with newcomers.”

There is very little cost associated with these dance events. “You won’t go anywhere else and dance and have as much fun for such a little cost,” says Griffin. “It’s great exercise and great fun. You won’t go wrong square dancing.”

And, what’s dance without a little competition? In the fall, CareLink holds an annual Dancing with the Seniors contest. There are five categories: line dance, country dance, rock ‘n’ roll dance, novelty dance and best-all-around senior center director team. The 2011 competition featured about 20 teams.

There are square dance competitions all over the country. Griffin, Smart and Gilliam have been all over the country square dancing. In 2014, Little Rock will host the 63rd National Square Dance Convention. It is expected to bring about 7,000 people to the

The Patrick Henry Hays Senior Citizens Center in North Little Rock offers line dance classes on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays at 10:00 AM to anyone over 50 who is a member of the center. Contact the center at 501-9754297 for more information about classes and memberships.

Country and Western Dancing The Little Rock Country Dancers club meets on the first, second and third Sundays at the former Stephens YWCA, 1200 S. Cleveland and 12th St., Little Rock. Lessons are given from 6:00-7:00 PM, with social dancing from 7:00-9:00 PM. Admission is $5. For more information, visit the club’s website at www.countrydancersoflittlerock.com

city, Griffin says. North Little Rock hosted the National Singles Square Dance USA convention in 2007. Square dance is Arkansas’ official state dance.

The Robertsons competed in about 50 country dance competitions in the 1990s and have won their share of titles. Now, they sponsor the Arkansas Country Classic, a competition held every September, that is part of the American Country Dance Association.

Competition categories are based on skill level and age. Classes and workshops are also offered during the competition.

Whether competing or dancing for fun, the benefits of dancing for seniors are almost too numerous to count. More importantly, it is the feeling that dancing brings to each individual and the benefits they gain from it that truly matter.

“When the music starts, you don’t have a care in the world,” says Strawn. “All your aches and pains, everything vanishes.”

Hedrick says she never gets tired of dancing. “I’m the first one when the music starts,” she says. “And, I can’t stop until the music stops. Dancing is my life.” And, when the music gets in you and worries vanish, it’s hard to slow down enough to realize how good it is for you.

HEALTH n B y R e be cca Pearrow , C T R S

Prevent Leading Cause of Injury F

alls are the number one cause of injury for seniors.

Every year, a third of people over 65 will take a tumble.

Falls are the most common reason why seniors have to visit an emergency room. Fully 25% of elderly people who break a hip will die within six months. More than half who survive a fall are discharged to a nursing home. Nearly half of those patients are still in a nursing home a year later. Falls also contribute to the majority of admissions to an inpatient rehabilitation facility.

One little fall can drastically alter your life. It can feel like your world is turned upside down by doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation and the new need to use mobility equipment. Throughout my years working as a therapist in rehab, I’ve heard numerous patients say, “If only I could go back in time and relive that five seconds of my life!”

The most common injuries from a fall are hip fractures, head injury, pelvic fractures, spine injury, broken wrists and shoulder injuries. Depending on individual needs, treatment may include physical, occupational or speech therapy.

Inpatient rehabilitation is a short-term stay to provide intensive therapy to quickly regain previous function and return the patient to home. The goal of rehab is to restore your independence and have all the necessary equipment and services set up at home.

Here are a few fall prevention tips to help you avoid rehab altogether: • Engage in regular mild exercise for at least 15 minutes a day. Walking is generally the best form of exercise. Stronger muscles and limber joints actually help prevent falls.

• Undertake daily activities in a safe manner.

Since you now know the statistics about falls, use more caution in daily tasks. Reach

Walking is generally the best

form of exercise. Stronger muscles and limber joints actually

help prevent falls.

and bend slowly and carefully. Take time to recover your balance when rising.

• Be careful with pets. They can get under your feet or cause a fall with leashes.

• At least a third of falls involve environmental hazards in the home. Use the following tips to make your home as safe as possible.

• Remove throw rugs! Our therapists always warn patients during home evaluations about the dangers of throw rugs. People are resistant to getting rid of throw rugs because they want to keep their carpet clean. But wouldn’t you rather live in your own home with stained carpet than live in a nursing home?

• Use a firm cushion to elevate the seat of your comfy chair to assist with rising from a seated position. This is a situation where we know falls are more likely to occur. It’s wise to decrease the distance between up and down.

• Keep electrical and phone cords out of traffic areas.

• Be sure pathways between furniture are wide and easy to maneuver with wheelchairs, walkers or canes.

• The bathroom is the number one place falls occur. We are more vulnerable as we bend, squat, stoop, and balance on one leg while dressing or stepping into the tub. Always be sure the floor is dry. In front of the tub is the only place in your home that a rug is a good idea. Install and use grab bars at tub and toilet.

They are inexpensive at home improvement stores but be sure they’re installed properly using the wall’s studs. Use bath or shower benches. Add non-skid abrasive strips or mats in the bottom of showers and tubs.

• Have someone move all frequently used kitchen items to lower shelves.

• Never leave the dishwasher or oven door open.

• Have a lamp beside the bed and always turn it on when making a trip to the bathroom in the middle of the night. And be sure to put on your glasses too. Dark+groggy+poor vision=falls. Make sure there’s nothing sitting in the pathway to the bathroom. Keep a phone by your bedside.

• Install handrails at all stairways and entry steps.

• The most important thing is to always have a way to get help quickly. There are several choices of personal emergency response systems (PERS) such as LifeLine or Helpline. Or get in the habit of always carrying a cell or cordless phone with you wherever you go. Using your cell phone is a less expensive helpline than buying a PERS. Take it to the bathroom with you, since we know that is a dangerous area. If you go outside, always take the phone.

Program emergency numbers into the phone and use ICE--In Case of Emergency. This communicates to first responders (firefighter, ambulance) whom you want them to contact if you are involved in an emergency.

Ms. Pearrow works with inpatient rehabilitation for the White County Medical Center in Searcy.

MATURE ARKANSAS

decemBER 29, 2011

11

answers from t h e doc tor n B y D avi d S. Bac h man , MD

Live Long and Healthy Q. I am a new grandmother who hasn’t always taken care of my health. What should I do to be sure I have time to watch this child grow up?

A. You’ve chosen a great motivation to improve your health and extend your life. To reach your goal, sacrifices may be required and some health habits may have to be changed.

These tips should help you to spend a long and healthy life with your new grandbaby.

Keep moving The evidence is overwhelming--people who exercise live longer than people who don’t.

Dozens of studies show regular physical activity reduces the risk for heart disease, stroke, diabetes, some forms of cancer and depression.

Exercise may even help you remain mentally sharp as you age. Most experts recommend a minimum of 30 minutes of walking a day.

Always check with your doctor before starting an exercise program.

Maintain a sense of purpose Finding hobbies and activities that have meaning for you contribute to a long life. A strong sense of purpose reduces your risk of dying from stroke, heart disease or other causes and reduces your risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

Make sleep a priority Good quality sleep can lower the risk of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, mood disorders and helps you recover from illnesses faster. Sleeping less than five hours a night raises the risk of premature death.

Wear safety gear The fifth most common cause of death is accidents. Wear safety gear such as seat belts--they reduce the risk of death or serious injury by half; when bicycling, always wear a helmet.

Forgive others Letting go of grudges has surprising health benefits and they increase with age. Chronic anger is linked to decreased lung function, heart disease, stroke and other ailments.

Forgiveness reduces anxiety, lowers blood pressure and helps you breathe more easily.

Get spiritual People who attend religious services live significantly longer than people who never attend.

Drink in moderation Heart disease is less common in moderate drinkers than in people who do not drink at all. However, heavy drinking pads the belly, boosts blood pressure and can cause a host of other health problems. If you don’t drink, don’t start.

12 decemBER 29, 2011 MATURE ARKANSAS

Make friends Science has given you one more reason to be grateful for your friends--they might help you live longer. Very social older people are less likely to die when compared to people with few friends.

Stop smoking Giving up cigarettes (all tobacco or smoking products) can lengthen your days. According to a 50-year British study, stopping by the age of 30 could lengthen your lifespan by 10 years; stopping by age 40, 50 or 60 boosts life expectancy by nine, six and three years, respectively.

Choose your friends wisely Your friend’s habits rub off on you, so cultivate friends with healthy lifestyles. Studies indicate obesity is socially contagious. Your chance of becoming obese increases by 57% if you have a close friend who is obese. Smoking is another addiction that spreads through social ties. But the good news is, stopping smoking is also contagious.

Meditation is an effective way to manage stress.

Lose weight If you are overweight, slimming down can protect against diabetes, heart disease and other life-shortening conditions. Belly fat appears to be the most harmful. A five-year study shows that walking and eating more fiber are the best methods to get rid of it.

Get married Married people tend to outlive their single counterparts. Many researchers attribute the difference to the social and economic support marriage provides. While a current marriage offers the greatest benefit, people who are divorced or widowed have lower rates than people who have never been married.

Take a nap A nap is standard in many parts of the world and scientific evidence shows it can help you live longer. Researchers think naps help your heart by reducing stress hormones. A recent study of 24,000 patients suggests that regular nappers are 37% less likely to die of heart disease than occasional nappers.

Manage your stress Stress management may help prevent heart disease. If you already have heart disease, you may actually reverse it by controlling stress.

Although avoiding stress is not a viable option for most people, there are effective ways of controlling it--yoga, meditation, prayer, deep breathing or taking a walk.

Protect your DNA As we age, the length of our chromosomes becomes shorter, making us more vulnerable to disease. New research suggests lifestyle changes can boost an enzyme that increases chromosome length. Other studies found that diet and exercise can protect chromosomes. Healthy habits may slow aging at the cellular level.

Be conscientious An 80-year study found one of the best predictors of a long life is a conscientious personality. Researchers measured attributes like attention to detail and persistence. They found that conscientious people do more things to protect their health and make choices that lead to stronger relationships and stronger careers.

CO NSUMER t ip

A Cell Phone in Your Future

By Jane Purtle, DA

M

any of us wonder how we managed our lives before cell phones. It’s there in your pocket to help keep in touch when you’re on the road, to manage your life every day, to take calls when you’re not available, and to provide a lifeline in case of an emergency. Improving technology has made it possible for everyone to say connected and independent, whatever their status in life.

If you haven’t been able to get a wireless phone, you may qualify for a FREE Access Wireless phone.

Under a government-supported program designed to ensure that everyone can get a mobile phone, individuals can qualify for a free cell phone in one of two ways.

You can qualify if you have a low income.

These are the current income levels: • household of one-$14,702 • household of two-$19,859 • household of three-$25,016 • household of four-$30,173.

You may also qualify because you are enrolled in certain government programs. These programs include: • National School Lunch Program • Food Stamps—now called SNAP • Supplemental Security Income (SSI) • Medicaid • Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) • Federal Public Housing Assistance • Low-Income Energy Assistance Program.

The phone can be used for making calls, sending text messages and accessing 911 services. The plan is limited to 150 minutes a month but can be upgraded for a small fee. Only one phone per household is available under the plan.

To apply, call toll free 800-464-6010 for more information and to have an application sent to you. You will have to provide copies of certain documents when you apply, depending on how you are qualifying.

Once an individual has qualified for the program, the phone will be sent via the mail and the first year’s service will begin.

Disabled Arkansans Disabled Arkansans have another program called TAP (Telecommunications Access Program) that will help them get the kind of phone necessary to meet their needs. Available equipment might include an amplified phone, a captioned telephone, a talking phone with Braille characters, a hands-free remote controlled phone or other equipment.

To qualify through the TAP program, an individual must be certified by a qualified professional as unable to use a standard telephone, must live in Arkansas and must meet income eligibility guidelines. A costsharing option is also available for those over the maximum income limit.

For more information about TAP, to see equipment, or to receive an application, call 501-686-9693 or toll free 800-981-4463. You may also visit an Arkansas Rehabilitation Services office in your area to see the equipment and make application.

You may qualify

for a FREE Access Wireless phone.

GARDENIN G

Are My Evergreens OK? Q. Some of my evergreens are losing needles and some are yellowing. I’ve not noticed this before, what can I do to stop it?

A. You may not need to do anything. During autumn, evergreens normally lose their older growth, according to Jim Robbins, extension horticulture specialist for the University of Arkansas, Div. of Agriculture.

“Common landscape plants, such as pines and arborvitae, drop a certain set of needles all at the same time, giving the impression that the plant is sick,” Robbins explains. “This significant needle drop is normal.”

Robbins says there are ways to tell whether the needle

drop is due to stress or is the normal fall drop. One way to tell is the location of the brown needles. If they are in the plant’s interior and there are lots of yellow needles all about the same age or same position, then, “What you are seeing is normal needle drop,” Robbins says.

He says if the needles are turning yellow and dropping in patches toward the outside of the plant, then it’s more likely you have a diseased plant or an insect problem.

Other common landscape evergreens, such as magnolia, also have a seasonal leaf drop but for magnolias, that occurs in April as the new growth appears.

MATURE ARKANSAS

decemBER 29, 2011

13

Th e Ag e o f T e chnology n B y K ell y Fer guson

Think About Social Media P

aula Deen, one of the most iconic Southern for her personally and professionally. seniors around, has had to learn a thing The working grandmother travels a lot, so or two about technology. The successful having a personal Facebook account means businesswoman knows people and how to easy access to her family at all times. This communicate with them. Because the way includes live online chatting, photo albums people communicate has significantly shifted and videos. Professionally, Deen has a page to include needing technology and “tools of fans can “like” just to feel connected to her and the trade,” Deen has had to learn to use social all the work she’s doing with her many product media to grow her business. lines, from cooking to furniture.

Granted, the 65-year-old has a team of people Many of our readers are still working or working for her, but her “voice” still is remarkrunning a small business. Keeping up with able online and in social media. Many people, of current trends in technology and social media The New York Times Syndication all ages think, “if Paula can do it, I can do it.” It’s is essential Sales in theCorporation workplace. It might also open 500 Seventh Avenue, New York, N.Y. 10018 made her brand. So, folks, Paula can Facebook. doors personally and professionally you never For Information Call: 1-800-972-3550 For Release December 29,2011 2011 Paula can Tweet. Let’s explore what that meansThursday, thought possible.

For Release Friday, December 23,

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ANSWER TO PREVIOUS PUZZLE S F A L C O R E A W S K T A B O S R B SI A T S

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14 decemBER 29, 2011 MATURE ARKANSAS

The point is, it’s worth exploring. Ask your children or younger co-workers. Did you know I get Hints from Heloise on Twitter? As a 30-something mommy, it’s helpful to have good quality tested advice available on the social media I use.

My mother will be 65 in March. She was a history and government teacher for more than 30 years in three states. When she retired in 2002, there was a sense of loss for her. She got a cell phone right away and her children were soon bombarded with calls during those “free nights and weekends.”

When Facebook became available several years later, I begged her to get involved. She refused for a long time. Then a few photos of my baby daughter convinced her it might be great to No. 1124 Edited by Will Shortz 1118 be online to see those. Then, she started to get friend requests. These 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 are requests from a Facebook user 13 14 16 15 15 asking you to be connected with 16 17 18 18 17 them and share information.

It began with family and close 20 21 19 20 21 friends (she couldn’t believe how 23 24 25 26 25 22 23 24 many were already signed up).

27 28 29 26 27 28 Then, came the real gems … her 31 31 32 33 33 29 30 32 34 former students. Thirty years of 34 35 36 37 35 36 students just wanting to say, “thank 38 39 40 38 41 37 39 you,” or “you were my favorite,” or “hey Mamma Ferguson, look at my 42 43 44 45 41 46 47 48 49 40 42 family now!”

50 44 51 52 47 43 45 46 Needless to say, my mother 53 54 55 56 50 48 49 now has her own online voice. She 57 58 59 60 51 52 53 54 still gardens and goes out with her 61 62 63 55 56 friends and cooks with her Paula 64 65 66 57 58 Deen pots and pans, but she spends a few hours a week on social media Sharon Delorme Puzzle by Joe DiPietro learning something new, having 28 Nobelist Niels 48 a he39 1955 Belmont 44 Hardly Hockeylike East 33 Musical Demeritscuts? fun and gaining satisfaction in the and Preakness man town 32 Alphabet quartet 43 34 Italian Lead-incode to anof winner that 45 Moves Venerated 49 furtively silence process.

34 Waiting room exciting shared its name symbol query with a U.S. city announcement 44 Old West trading 54 Soccer injury You don’t have to be Paula Deen 47 site More chalky 35 30 Carryall “Love Sneakin’ 38 post Paraphrase to understand the value of social 49 Schedule Up on You” 36 Feudal lord 46 Gems, precious 56 Letter 39 Duds singer, 1994 addendum, for 50 Fashion media. Think about beginning the metals, etc., in 37 Something to short designer Jacobs 32 settle How some 41 Spain Usher, e.g. new year with a new outlook about calorie counters 58 in oldwith Rome 52 I, Suffix solid 38 Practically in 47 Kid or 43 Billy Visit,the as a site, eventually want social media. In future columns, one’s Jesse James 59 53 Enclothe Rejections to lookface good with “to” I will discuss details about social For answers, call 1-900-285-5656, $1.49 a minute; or, with a credit card, 1-800-814-5554. media. This column is just to get Annual subscriptions are available for the best of Sunday you thinking about it. crosswords from the last 50 years: 1-888-7-ACROSS. AT&T users: Text NYTX to 386 to download puzzles, or visit nytimes.com/mobilexword for more information.

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If you Twitter, these are great ladies to follow! @Paula_Deen, @ HeloiseHints, or me, @RockAKelly

g i vi ng ba ck

Animals Offer Unique Way to Give Back

By Paige Parham

Y

ou’re probably most familiar with the Humane Society of Pulaski County through their many tee-shirts and bumper stickers featuring their slogan, “Warm Hearts for Cold Noses.” As the best-known animal charity in Arkansas, the Humane Society, in many ways, helps humans as much as they do animals. The Humane Society of Pulaski County is popular with many people because they are a “no kill” shelter. They do not euthanize any healthy or “mendable” animal.

There are many opportunities to volunteer with the Humane Society of Pulaski County.

They need people to spend time with and help care for the animals and there are a lot of behind-the-scenes needs as well. If you’re interested in working with animals in a hands-on capacity, there are jobs which include socializing, training, feeding and cleaning the dogs and cats. Volunteers sometimes take the animals to off-site adoption events, to sporting events, to festivals and to local nursing homes.

Other volunteer opportunities include working in the administrative office, answering telephones, transporting donated goods and supplies and helping with maintenance around the facility.

local nursing homes, hospitals and area facilities for over 20 years, making the day brighter for thousands of elderly and disabled Arkansans.

Puppy Love is one of their programs that takes puppies and small dogs to visit residents of nursing homes, assisted living facilities and women’s shelters. The animals provide a

unique way to brighten the day for these folks and the animals love the attention.

If you would like to be part of this program, attend an orientation and learn how you can get involved. If you know of a facility that would enjoy these visits, contact info@warmhearts. org or call 227-6166.

Senior Pets for Seniors

“A Holiday Gift for Pets & People”

Special events and fundraising volunteers help with a variety of projects, such as Reigning Cats and Dogs, the Day Planner, Dog Washes and Pet Photos with Santa. These volunteers work on planning committees, seek donated items, coordinate individual events and work on the day of the event.

The Humane Society of Pulaski County’s facilities are located at 14600 Colonel Glenn Road, Little Rock, phone 501- 227-6166 or on the web at warmhearts.org Spotlight on Volunteering:

Puppies Love Seniors

There is a special team of volunteers that work with older Arkansans in nursing homes and they’re a pretty hairy crowd. The Humane Society of Pulaski County’s Outreach and Humane Education programs have taken animals to

Aging Arkansas,Arkansas the award-winning statewide shelters senior newspaper, joins Central animal and with city animal services, shelters and rescue groups rescue groups unite toacross linkthe state to link

FREE Senior Pets to Senior People

Connectingseniors seniorswho whoneed need companionship companionship with pets Connecting withsenior a displaced whoneeds need aloving December 2011of December. senior pet who lovinghomes homeis isourourgoalgoalforfor the month If you are or know of a senior 62+ who wants to start 2012 with the perfect new furry friend, If you know a senior or are a senior 65+ who wants to call one ofTOthe willwith waive adoption feesfriend, on call FINDnumbers A SENIORbelow PET now. During December, this startfacility the new year the perfect new furry senior pets for senior adopters. Consider receiving a gift love thisthis season. above.

Duringof December, facility will Inneutered __________________________ (TOWN)givingtheor number

waive adoption fees on neutered senior petsANIMALS for senior HOT SPRINGS/MALVERN MAUMELLE FRIENDS OF THE PAWS & CLAWS 501-776-5972 a 501-517-7536 gift of love this season.

Call_______________________ (FACILITY) adopters. ConsiderN.giving 501-525-6594 BRYANT ANIMAL CONTROL LITTLE ROCK ANIMAL SERV. JACKSONVILLE ANIMAL CONTROL 501-653-0765 501-791-8577 For contactOUT numbers in other Arkansas locations, 501-982-2916 CABOT ANIMAL SERVICES OF THE WOODS ANIMAL RESCUE At _________________________ (PHONE) LAST CHANCE ARKANSAS see the list of participants 501-843-2021 501-993-0440. in December’s 501-590-9785 CONWAY ANIMAL CONTROL PULASKI COUNTY HUMANE SOC. Aging Arkansas newspaper.

LITTLE ROCK ANIMAL VILLAGE 501-450-6160 501-227-6166 501-376-3067 FELINE RESCUE & REHAB (FURR) SHERWOOD ANIMAL SERV. MAUMELLE ANIMAL SERVICES 501-661-0956 501-834-2287 501-851-6219 HOT SPRINGS ANIMAL SERVICES SALINE COUNTY HUMANE SOC. BENTON ANIMAL CONTROL

Not a subscriber? Call for a free trial subscription copy 501-262-2091 to be mailed to your home today.

501-376-6083 501-557-5518

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL SENIOR PETS FOR SENIORS 501-224-5383 MATURE ARKANSAS

decemBER 29, 2011

15

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16 decemBER 29, 2011 MATURE ARKANSAS