May/June 2010
Lake Charles Edition
My Generation
!
Hit the Road, Jack... and Jill
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Party with Pizza
READ US
ONLINE
(Click on “Your Area”)
Common Foods that Help Prevent Wrinkles from Holly Clegg
Want to reach the and the rest of the mature market? Want to be seen in a high quality publication that is read cover to cover? Want to be part of a resource that is referenced again and again? Want to be one of a few instead of lost in the crowd?
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M AG A ZI N E
715 Kirby Street • Lake Charles, LA 70601 337-436-7800 lakecharles@savvyandsage.com www.savvyandsage.com May/June 2010
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from the publisher Greetings to all of our readers! Along with great weather (finally) the second issue of Savvy and Sage is here! We have been overwhelmed with the wonderful response we received from our first issue!. Thanks so much to all of you for your phone calls, e-mails and letters. Let’s hit the road! We explore all the fun you can have when you get into the RV lifestyle. Included are tips for buying the right vehicle for your needs, and what you should know about this super-popular form of travel. Speaking of fun, Elaine Marze recounts a delightful time spent with her grandchildren at The Dixie Stampede in Branson. And for all you golfers out there, we take a look at the latest improvements at Gray Plantation. Also in this issue, the always-entertaining Mike McHugh, The Jambalaya News’ own “Dang Yankee,” introduces his “My Generation” column. Feel like contributing to Savvy and Sage? “Writers Corner” gives you the opportunity to send in your poems and short essays. We hope you enjoy our latest issue. And remember, we value your feedback. Please let us know what you’d like to see in our publication. We’re here for you! Sincerely,
Phil and Lauren de Albuquerque
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Phil and Lauren de Albuquerque
Savvy & Sage Lake Charles Edition 715 Kirby Street Lake Charles, LA 70601 Phone: 337-436-7800 lakecharles@savvyandsage.com www.savvyandsage.com
May/June 2010
Dig ita NO l Onlin W ww e w.sa AVAI Versi o L vvy and ABLE! n sa
Apr/May 2010
Lake Charles
®
click on “Your Area”
My Generation
By Mike McHugh
READ US
ONLINE
!
Hit the Road, Jack... and Jill By Lauren de Albuquerque
ge.c
om
Common Foods that Help Prevent Wrinkles By Amy Austen
www.savvyandsage.com (Click on “Your Area”)
Party with Pizza
Recipes By Holly Clegg
on the cover Great weather is here. This issue’s cover celebrates the beauty of the outdoors. Get out there and have some fun!
features
My Generation 4
My Generation..................................4 It’s Tee Time!.....................................6 Get it Growing!.................................8 Hit the Road Jack...and Jill............11 The Dixie Stampede.......................13 Writers’ Corner.................................15 Common Foods that Help Prevent Wrinkles............16 Top 10 Web sites for Baby Boomers......................17 New Twist in Medicare Law.........................19 Puzzle Savvy......................................20 Party with Pizza...............................22 Downtown at Sundown..............27 Savvy Events......................................25 Fall Prevention Checklist............29 Obama Care.......................................31
It’s Tee Time! 6
Get it Growing! 8
Party with Pizza 22 Feature Writers Holly Clegg Elaine Marze Lauren de Albuquerque May/June 2010
www.savvyandsage.com
Contributing Writers Amy Austen Mike McHugh
Art Director Casy Leatherman
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Savvy Stories
My Generation Growing Old Without Apology By Mike McHugh
I
n 1965, the Who released “My Generation,” a song that, whether intended or not, turned out to be a defining theme for the millions of Baby Boomers who were coming of age. In the song, Pete Townsend boldly penned the line, “I hope I die before I get old.” Well, if you identified with that statement back then and are reading this today, obviously your hopes were dashed. This column is for you. Herein, we’ll reminisce about how we lived, and somehow lived through, those days in the ‘50s, ‘60s, and ‘70s, and contrast them to our lives today. How we traded in our tiedyes for designer silk neckties (mine happen to bear designs created by the late Jerry Garcia of the Grateful Dead). How we ditched our $2 Army surplus pup tents for Class A Diesel Motor homes with six-figure price tags complete with satellite dishes. How we thought there could never, ever be anything more “out there” than the music of Led Zeppelin until our children came home with Limp Bizkit loaded onto their I-Pods. First off, let me try to reassure you all that there’s no need to feel guilty about not having ended up as lawn fertilizer before the age of 30. To really understand this, we must examine the true meaning behind Mr. Townsend’s lyrics.
By the way, didn’t he and his band mates do a smash-up job at the Super Bowl halftime show this year, despite the disappointment we all suffered when he failed to smash any guitars during the performance? I lost a bet on that one. I mean, what could have stopped him? Really, what’s a measly guitar smashing compared to Janet Jackson’s “costume malfunction” a few years back? C’mon, Pete, you let me down, dude! By the way, did anyone else besides me notice how the NFL has gone exclusively to classic rock acts for halftime entertainment at the Super Bowl since that incident with Janet Jackson’s costume? All I’ve got to say is, times sure have changed. Did you ever imagine the day would ever come when the rock and roll heroes of our youth would be considered the safest choice for prime time? It makes me think back about 30 years, you may remember, when Reagan’s Interior Secretary, James Watt, ditched the Beach Boys’ gig on the Fourth of July and replaced them with Wayne Newton. I guess you couldn’t blame
Did you ever imagine the day would ever come when the rock and roll heroes of our youth would be considered the safest choice for prime time?
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May/June 2010
him. Those subversive, anti-American So, how did I handle a similar situation with my daughter when she expressed a songs of theirs about topics like girls, desire to get her surfing, and He just wanted us all, in the tongue pierced? hot rod Fords just couldn’t words of that great American I, being the new generation, openbe sung in the philosopher, Jimmy Buffet, to minded parent, shadows of did not express the Lincoln “grow older but not up.” indignation. Memorial. Rather, without any hesitation, I fetched Back to that pesky Who lyric. Was Pete my trusty cordless drill from the workTownsend really pining for a premature death? Of course not. All he was saying was that he didn’t want to grow up to become so closed-minded as our elders seemed to be at the time. He just wanted us all, in the words of that great American philosopher, Jimmy Buffet, to “grow older but not up.” That way, we’d surely avoid a repeat of the “generation gap.” I think we’ve managed to do quite nicely, haven’t we?
bench and offered to do the deed myself. OK, maybe that wasn’t such a good example. Maybe I should have taken Pete Townsend’s words literally, after all. Mike McHugh is a chemical engineer at Sasol North America in Lake Charles. He writes “The Dang Yankee” column in The Jambalaya News and lives in Moss Bluff with his wife, Susan.
Well, haven’t we? Let me give you a personal example of how I, for one, have managed to be more open-minded with my children. When I was a teenager, I wanted to grow my hair long so that I could look cool like the guys in the Beatles. My father was dead set against this, and so to enforce my compliance, he cut my hair himself. This he did with the craftsmanship of a safari guide slashing a trail through the jungle with a machete. When I was really rebellious, as in the time when I bought my first Beatles record (which in his mind was only going to support their drug habit), he did the trim work with a chain saw. These haircuts seriously hindered my ability to get dates when I was in high school. About the only girl who ever showed any interest in me was one spacedout chick from my neighborhood (personal motto: “Better Living Through Chemistry”). The only thing that attracted her to me was that she swore that she could make out designs in my hair reminiscent of the Nazca lines she believed were drawn by aliens in Peru when they visited the Incas. The irony in this is that such haircuts are very much in vogue among today’s youth. May/June 2010
YOUR HEART
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Savvy Sports
It’s Tee Time! The Latest From Gray Plantation Golf Club
G
ray Plantation Golf Club continues to enhance its reputation as a long-standing member among the “best of the best” when it comes to golf in Southwest Louisiana. The magnificent 18-hole championship golf course, nicknamed “The Gray” is located within the master-planned community of Graywood.
ey’s vision stems from his experience at both the Austin and The Hills Country Club.
“I’m very proud to be welcomed into an environment filled with an outstanding group of visionaries,” Tracey said. “The Gray is an impressive mix of Southern charm and Cajun fire, with water coming into play on 11 of the 18 holes.” More than just a golf course, Since the course was designed The Gray continues to boost its with strategy in mind, The Gray stature with accolades such as is planning many more enbeing named in Golf Digest’s hancements over the next year “Top 100 Public Courses” and that will continue to add value. Tim Jaquez, left, Mark Moore & Kevin Tracey voted “Number 3 in Louisi“Currently, we are focusing our ana.” vision on our indoor teaching academy and practice facilities,” he said “Our value With a Texas Hill Country background, Kevin Tracey is at the heart of the way we work and the backbone of has joined The Gray as the new director of golf. Tracwhat we deliver,” he went on to say. “ With three Class
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May/June 2010
“A” PGA professionals on the Gray Plantation leadership team, we’re certain to help grow and enhance what is already an unparalleled golf experience.” Work is currently underway to upgrade the practice facilities and state-of-the-art teaching facility to include four target greens with bunkers, expanded teeing ground, launch monitor, and an indoor putting studio with the SAM putting system.
golf operations program for over 1,200 members. Tim has spent the last three years at Koasati Pines at Coushatta Casino Resort as the golf sales manager, where he conducted all golf activities and tournaments at the casino. “I look forward to incorporating
my knowledge of private club operations here at Gray Plantation. The opportunities at The Gray are endless with the team we have assembled,” he said. For more information about Gray Plantation, call (337) 477-1114.
Mark Moore is the new director of instruction. Mark taught with Hank Haney, Tiger Woods’ instructor, for the last 12 years and has several students competing on the PGA Tour. “I’ve had the good fortune of watching and learning from some of the game’s top teachers: Rob Akins, Hank Haney, Chuck Cook, David Leadbetter, and many others,” he said. “I consider Hank Haney to be the best I’ve ever seen. In my teaching, I draw from my experiences as a student with Hank, the countless hours of studying the golf swing, the thousands of lessons I’ve taught, and the times I have played and caddied on the Nationwide Tour to make sure my students get the most out of their time with me.” Complimenting Moore is Gray Plantation’s Tim Jaquez who also brings PGA Class “A” management experience from Barton Creek and Koasati Pines. Tim spent 10 years working for Club Corp., and seven at Barton Creek Resort and Spa where he helped coordinate the May/June 2010
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Savvy Gardener
Get it Growing! Gardening Tips for Spring: - Courtesy of the LSU Ag Center Research & Extension
Mid-Spring • Excellent hot-weather vegetables that can be planted now include cucuzzi, cushaw, eggplants, peanuts, pumpkin, Southern peas, hot peppers, lima beans, luffa gourd, okra and yard-long beans. Continue to plant transplants of tomatoes and peppers and seeds of snap beans, squash and cucumbers. • It’s time to move container plants you overwintered indoors to the outside if you intend to do so. Remember these plants have grown accustomed to low light and must be gradually introduced to brighter light conditions. Start them all off in shade and gradually introduce sun-loving plants 8
to more sun to avoid scorching. • Plant caladium tubers or plants this month. Caladiums are excellent for shady areas and combine beautifully with ferns, begonias, liriope, impatiens, hosta and coleus. • Control powdery mildew on ornamentals such as euonymus, roses, hydrangeas, crape myrtles, gerbera daisies and others with any fungicide labeled to do so. This disease appears as a fine, white powder on the foliage or flower buds. • Save some seed from you coolseason annuals to plant again this fall. Collect seeds this time of year from sweet peas, violas, cleome, nicotiana, poppies, calendulas and cosmos. Make sure the seed pods are mature before harvesting. www.savvyandsage.com
• Tomatoes are staked to keep the plants from sprawling on the ground where the fruit would be more likely to rot. Wait for the first cluster of flowers to appear and place the stake on the opposite side of the plant’s stem. All of the flower clusters will grow from the same side of the stem, and this will keep developing fruit from getting caught between the stake and the stem. • Constant watering rapidly leaches nutrients from the soils of container-grown plants. To replace them, use either soluble fertilizers or slow-release fertilizers. Soluble fertilizers must be applied every two weeks. Slow-release fertilizers provide nutrients over several months.
May/June 2010
Late Spring • Continue to plant hot-weather vegetables including mirlton, okra, sweet potatoes, watermelons and yard-long beans. • Excellent warm-season bedding plants to put in sunny areas now include abelmoschus, ageratum, amaranthus, balsam, begonia, blue daze, celosia, cleome, coleus (suntolerant types), coreopsis, cosmos, dahlberg daisy, dusty miller, gaillardia, gompherna, latana, lisianthus, marigold, melampodium, narrow-leaf zinnia, ornamental pepper, periwinkle, pentas, portulaca, purslane, rudbeckia, salvia, scaevola, sunflower, tithoMay/June 2010
nia, torenia, verbena and zinnia. • Excellent warm-season bedding plants for part-shade to shade include balsam, begonia, browallia, caladium, cleome, coleus, impatients, pentas, salvia and torenia. • Don’t forget to keep your compost pile evenly moist during dry weather. Dry organic matter will not decompose, but saturating it will create bad ordors. • Plant basil plants now and enjoy a wonderful fresh seasoning for summer cooking. Many herbs already in your garden, such as thyme, sage, oregano, lavender, french terragon, dill, cilantro, chives and parsely, are at their most productive now and will play out as the weathwww.savvyandsage.com
er gets hotter. Harvest freely and dry or freeze the extras. • Birds will peck holes in tomatoes just as you decide they are ripe enough to harvest. If birds are a problem, cover your plants with bird netting or harvest the fruit in the pink stage and ripen them inside. Bird netting also works well to protect fruit crops. • May is one of the busiest months in the flower garden. As cool-season annuals become unnattractive, the beds need to be cleaned out and replanted with warm-season annuals for color through the summer. Provided by the LSU Ag Center Research and Extension
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Savvy Travel
Hit the Road, Jack...and Jill Baby Boomers and the RV Life By Lauren de Albuquerque
Y
our children are out of the house, you’ve retired and you have time on your hands. There’s a world of things to do out there, and a world of places to go. So, why not go in an RV? If you do, you’ll be in good company: the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association recently reported that nearly 8 million American households have an RV, motor home or travel trailer, and that there are approximately 30 million RV enthusiasts in the U.S. Traveling around in an RV is an affordable, fun way to explore the country and share new experiences with your spouse. And with more than 16,000 public and privately owned campgrounds in the U.S., you’re bound to find plenty that will fit your needs.
Purchasing your RV..................... Not sure what type of RV to buy? Let’s start from the beginning. There are two basic types: motorized and towable.
Motorized RVs............................ Motorized RVs are motor homes that are capable of independent travel, which means that you don’t need another vehicle to pull your RV. But this means that you’ll need to purchase a trailer if you plan on taking your car with you. May/June 2010
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Motorized RVs are divided into three classes: Class A, Class B and Class C. Class A motor homes weigh up to 30,000 pounds and can be as long as 40 feet. Class B RVs are less than 20 feet long and weigh approximately 8,000 pounds. There are also Class C motor homes that weigh around 10,000 pounds and are around 30 feet long.
Towable RVs.............................. Towable RVs require another vehicle, such as a truck or SUV, to pull it. What makes this type of RV so attractive is that when you reach your campground, you simply release the RV, set it up, and leave it there for the duration of your stay while you take the car for shorter trips around the area. Travel trailers and fifth wheel trailers are the most popular models because they’re long and come with luxury interiors and more space. You can also find smaller campers, known as pop-up campers, which are also classified as RVs.
What to look for in an RV............. Once you decide what type of RV you want, you have to get into the details. Here are just a few things you need to consider: • Make sure there’s enough storage space for your needs, such as golf clubs, camera equipment, easels and paintbrushes, etc. 11
• Are the chairs and couch comfortable? Sit in them a while to make sure. Where are you planning on putting the TV? What about the bed? You’re not checking out the next day—this is YOUR bed. You’ll be stuck with it, so make sure you can sleep on it, and that there’s enough room for two. • Are the cupboards deep enough to hold a normal-sized dinner plate? Do they feel solid? • How many heater vents do you have, and where are they? Can the heater itself warm the entire unit? The same goes for air conditioning. • Most RVers tend to make more home-cooked meals rather than eat out. So confirm that there are enough stove burners, along with adequate kitchen counter space and electrical outlets. The very best thing you can do is talk to RV owners and ask them why they purchased their particular RV. Get on the Internet; talk to dealers; even rent one for a while. Do your research before you make an expensive mistake.
Loving the RV lifestyle................. Anne and Dale Scrivner of Sun City, Arizona, are a happily retired couple who thoroughly love the RV lifestyle. “We got our first RV in March of 1992,” Anne explained. “It was an older Coachman Class B motor home on a pick-up truck chassis. Most Class Bs back then were on a van chassis. We had two dogs, so we thought it would be easier to travel in.” All together, the Scrivners have owned four RVs. “In 1993, we bought a Class A motor home and traveled extensively throughout the West and Midwest,” Anne recalled. “In 1998, we switched to a 5th wheel trailer. It afforded more room and had slide-outs so it was much larger inside and more comfortable. One less motor to maintain was Dale’s reasoning.” This past January, they purchased their 12
Alfa. “It’s bigger. It has three 3 slide-outs, two refrigerators and a king-size bed,” she said. Anne believes they’ve logged over 100,000 miles since 1992. “We now spend about 20 to 26 weeks in the trailer every
uninhabitable, they were already in their home away from home—all they needed was to find an RV park. The Scrivners eventually moved back to Arizona, but they pass through Louisiana on occasion—in their RV, of course—so we get a chance to see them. Their dog Moe (or Meaux, as it was spelled when he lived in SWLA!) accompanies them on all their journeys. “We love RVing,” Anne said. “We feel it’s more enjoyable than going on a car trip and staying in motels. With our own kitchen and bath, it’s truly our home on wheels. We never did find a place where we would want a vacation house, but we’ve been to many Dale Scrivner with his latest purchase places that we’d like to return to, year, depending on where we’re going,” she so this works for us.” said. They have children and grandchildren Planning is important!................. all over the country, and visit them several times a year for long stays. They generalIn order to really enjoy RVing, you have ly make it a point to leave Arizona in the to plan, and plan carefully. Most RVers spring--before the intense heat sets in—and don’t just meander around aimlessly—even usually don’t return until the fall. though it may seem that way to the rest of They’ve made many memories along us. So, make sure you’ve mapped out where the way—some wonderful, some not so you’re headed, and that you know how long wonderful. “The absolute nightmare was it will take to get to your campground for when the Class A motor home would not the night. It case something entices you go uphill in Colorado,” Anne recalled. “We along the way that you hadn’t planned on, didn’t know Colorado fuel was low octane you’ll know how much time you have to and that we had two fuel pumps in that rig. spend there. We finally limped over Eisenhower Pass and The sights that you see are the true joys of onward to Springerville, Arizona, where we going on the road. So, plan the most scenic found someone who knew what he was doroutes, which may often be the roads less ing with the repairs. Mechanical knowledge traveled. The Internet, RV guides and loof these units is rare in a typical mechanic.” cal tourist bureaus have all the information The Scrivners visited us a few years afthat you need. And, it goes without saying ter my husband Phil and I moved to Lake that a GPS system and good road maps are Charles. They came for a Mardi Gras ball, a necessity, along with a first-aid kit and a and loved the area so much that they sold comprehensive checklist of everything you their home in Sun City and moved here. need to do when setting up (and breaking Unfortunately, Hurricane Rita came calling camp) at an RV campground. five months after they arrived. Make sure you connect with fellow RVOf course, they evacuated in their RV, ers that you meet along the way. You’ll find so they didn’t have to worry about finding that most of them have a wealth of informaa hotel room, and they were able to bring a tion to share, which will only enhance your lot more items with them than the average RV experience. So what are you waiting family traveling in an SUV. And when they for? Hit the road! were able to return and found their house www.savvyandsage.com
May/June 2010
e i x i D The ede p m a t S
e Marze
By Elain
S
avvy readers regularly ask me for suggestions on great places to take their grandkids or church groups; which attractions are worth the costs; and where the best food is. Older people do not particularly like to drive in crowded, break-neck interstate traffic, nor do they want to have to deal with criminal elements – so they keep coming back to Branson, Missouri. Yes, there is bumper-to-bumper traffic around show times, but it is slow and mostly genial. People feel safe walking the streets, even at night. I recommend Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede because there are so many reasons why it is the popular family attraction that it is. Yes, it is expensive. For a family of five, the cost is over $200, but for those who can afford it; it is worth every penny of your entertainment dollars. My husband and I recently took our five and seven-year-old granddaughters for their first visit to the Stampede, and though it is hard to imagine that any
tainment. The “Asian redneck” as the entertainment can satisfy both a precomedian-juggler called himself, kept school age child as well as a senior citithe adults laughing with his clean humor zen, Dixie Stampede can and does do so. while the little people were fascinated In addition to Branson, the Stamby his constantly changing juggling act pede’s unique dinner show also has establishments in Myrtle Beach, South -- which also kept us older folks oohing Carolina and Piand aahing. The pre-show is definitely geon Forge, Tenworth the effort to get there an hour nessee. Each is early. Horse lovers will want to stop by the stalls to check out the horses before set in an 85,000 the pre-show. square foot arena featuring a delicious four-course meal, 32 horses, Longhorn The food is excellent! Our girls steers, and dancers and riders in fabuwere excited about getting to eat with lous costumes. Audience participation their fingers (no forks available) and adds to the fun. The dinner show is based when I told them they would each on a friendly rivalry between North have a “whole” chicken, Kinsley quickand South which ly asked, “A The Carriage Room is conducive to whole chicken? the waving of pre-show, featuring David Lucas, Don’t they even flags ($2 each). cut its head was superb entertainment. Our girls got off?” She is our persnickety one and was relieved when caught up in it and loved the fact that her “whole” rotisserie chicken came this was one dinner where they could cooked and headless. The amount of stomp, clap and holler without somebody telling them to be still. food served is very generous to the exThe Carriage Room pre-show, featent that take-out bags are provided for turing David Lucas, was superb enterleftovers. The creamy vegetable soup,
People feel safe walking the streets, even at night.
May/June 2010
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which Makenna held onto until the end of the meal, is particferent. America is celebrated in a red, white and blue mountularly delicious. Each of us also received a slice of hickory ed musical that many youngsters do not get to see very often. smoked pork loin, corn on the cob, a potato, biscuit and apple All in all, if I were rating Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede, I turnover. Diners have a choice of iced tea, Pepsi and coffee – would give it an A-plus. From beginning to end, the performers, with refills. crew and management have it down to a fine art. Dolly’s The costumed wait dream of a spectacular fun show along with a delicious staff are friendly, meal has been accomplished, in my opinion. For older enthusiastic and people who are not physically able to stand in lines all day accommodating. at Disney World, While they were or who don’t care efficiently serving to slide down wathe four course dinter slides or ride ner they were also Six Flags roller cheering for the curcoasters, Dixie rent performance Stampede is a peron the arena floor fect way to spend and encouraging time and share Granddaughter Kinsley. audience participamemories with the tion. I credit them for adding to a wonderful evening. youngest members Granddaughter Makenna. The equestrian c a s t m e m b e r s and their of their families. beautiful mounts had our wanna-be cowAge is not a factor; as their advertisement promises, this is the girl granddaughter riveted as they did trick riding “most fun place to eat.” I agree. and musical numbers. When members of the audience were led Elaine Marze is a freelance writer who also works in down to the arena floor to take part in the action, it just addpublic relations and advertising. She can be reached ed to the fun and laughter. Typically in Branson, the show’s at elmarz7@yahoo.com. finales highlight patriotism, and the Dixie Stampede is no difProject14:Layout 1 4/12/10 4:14 PM Page 1
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Savvy Writers
Writers’ Corner Do you have a poem or short essay about your “Golden Years” that you’d like us to publish?
Endurance
Please e-mail your submissions to lauren@thejambalayanews.com. We will select a few for publication.
•
No small thing
this betrayal of my body.
Heedless of my unspoken commands it does as it will.
Still I rebel, choosing not to surrender… Exhorting my wobbly legs to move, my trembling hands to still, my speeding heart to slow. When did this happen, this cruel theft?
Irreplaceable things were taken from me while I carelessly cooked away.
Fair warning ---- there will be no white flags here, no giving in.
This is a battle, perhaps ill matched, but my will, my resolve, is strong. I will endure! •
Sybil Christine Ventura
Lake Charles
May/June 2010
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Savvy Health
FOODS Common
that Help Prevent Wrinkles by Amy Austen
Y
ou are what you eat, right? This is probably one of the oldest phrases in the English language, but it still remains true. What you eat will not only end up on your hips, but it will make an appearance on your face as well! It turns out there are quite a few foods that help prevent wrinkles, and they are not as distasteful or boring as you may think. It is true that most of the foods that are really good for the human body are anything but appetizing. Yet, when it comes to foods that prevent wrinkles and keep the skin youthful and radiant, the common foods on this list are quite delicious. Even better, they are easily found in your local supermarket and you probably already eat some of them from time to time.
antioxidants You have probably heard a lot about the benefits of getting antioxidants into the body for weight loss and overall health benefits, but this is one of the best things you can do for your skin as well. Most of the foods that help prevent wrinkles happen to be very rich in antioxidants of some sort, which will help nourish and replenish the skin so it fights off the signs of aging such as wrinkles, lines, sagging, and sun spots. Some of the most common foods that prevent wrinkles by pumping your body full of antioxidants include: • Leafy green vegetables such as spinach and kale • Dark orange colored vegetables such as carrots, orange peppers, and squash • Dark, rich colored berries such as blueberries, raspberries, and dark purple grapes • Tomatoes 16
These foods that help prevent wrinkles get their power from their rich colors and tend to be more powerful when eaten raw. The only exception is tomatoes, which tend to have more antioxidants after cooking.
healthy fats It doesn’t seem like fat would be anywhere near a list of healthy foods that help prevent wrinkles, but every organ in the body relies upon fat sources to function properly. That includes the skin! The trick is to eat healthy fats which do not clog your arteries and leave a greasy film over your pores. Some of the healthy foods that prevent wrinkles by providing essential fats include: • Salmon • Almonds • Olive Oil Salmon in particular is one of the most beneficial foods that help prevent wrinkles because it also combats a variety of other problems within the body. The best tip you can ever receive for keeping your skin tight, youthful and blemish-free is to take care of your body as a whole. Get in shape, eat for nourishment, not satisfaction, and you will not only have clear skin, but you will feel your best as well. Visit www.soft-clear-skin.com and discover effective foods that help prevent wrinkles and diminish fine lines, dry skin, and other signs of aging.
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May/June 2010
Tech Savvy
Top 10 Web sites for Baby Boomers By Dwight Carson
A
re you a boomer? The following Web sites will help you in your search for friendships, travel, jobs, and all things baby boomer.
their special interests. It’s called www.cRANKy.com and is run by
Social Networking
This Web site uses consumer research on Internet surfing habits and
Often called the “MySpace for the 50-something crowd,” the social networking Web site www.eons.com is the place to meet, exchange photos and just gather and talk with folks your age. Baby boomers find that they can share stories from their past and meet people from all over the world who are just like them.
something in the traditional search engines—according to its creator. then adjusts the results to boost the placement of these sites so that users can see them higher on the list. It’s in an easier-to-read format as well.
Nostalgia
www.iRememberJFK.com and is packed with stories about old cars,
Everyone is blogging these days, so why shouldn’t we? Two 50-somethings started www.aginghipsters.com so they could share their time spent growing up in the 60s and 70s. Topics include music, politics, careers, children and aging and more. There’s also a bulletin board for other bloggers to post their views.
gadgets and other things that make our memories so wonderful. This site is great for collectors of 50s and 60s memorabilia.
Women’s Issues
Check out BoomerGirl.com, created by a Kansas City woman who
wanted to share her humorous adventures with her children and ag-
This is a search engine especially created for baby boomers and
May/June 2010
from the fact that baby boomers get cranky when they can’t find
This Web site focuses on the way things used to be. It’s called
Blogging
Search Engine
the same people who brought you Eons. The Web site name derives
ing parents. The site offers great destinations for girlfriend getaways, recipes and stories.
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Another great Web site for women is www.boomerbabesrock.com,
which offers empowering and inspiring information. It’s run by Alison
Bottke and her friends, who want to teach and empower women to be stronger and know that they cannot do it all.
Www.boomerwomenspeak.com is for mature women who want to
share their stories and exchange recipes and information on just about anything. An added bonus is the countless resources available on this Web site.
Travel
Want to travel? See www.elderhostel.org for its extensive log of
travel destination and hotels that cater to the baby boomer generation. You may search the world from this page, and plan your trip for any time of year that suits your schedule.
Another interesting Web site for great travel information is
www.travelocity.com/aarp. This site has special baby boomer only information and deals, from hotel reservations to airline bookings.
Baby Boomer Jobs
If you’d like to join the workforce again, try www.retiredbrains.com
for up-to-the-minute information on where to find a part-time, fulltime or temporary job.
Dwight Carson writes on topics such as Technology and Lifestyle, Widgets. Visit Top 10 Web sites For Baby Boomers. www.systemdisc.com/technology-and-lifestyle
The Perfect Fit
312 Pujo Street Lake Charles 337-433-5855 Barbara DuBose Fashion Consultant
ProFessional Custom Fitting mother oF the Bride & groom Special OrderS – Special OccaSiOn Worth ColleCtion starFire designs 18
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May/June 2010
Savvy News
Chubby Checker
Announces New “Twist” In Medicare Law
I
f you’ve been thinking about applying for extra help with your Medicare prescription drug costs, then now’s the time to get on the dance floor and hop to it.
There are income and resource limits a person needs to meet to qualify for the extra help. But the new Medicare law eases those requirements in two ways:
Chubby Checker, the GRAMMY Award-winning rock and roll legend most known for his hit, “The Twist,” has teamed up with Michael J. Astrue, Commissioner of Social Security, to tell people about a new “twist” in the law. The change in the law makes it easier for people with Medicare to qualify for extra help with their prescription drug costs.
• The cash value of life insurance no longer counts as resource; and
“The changes in the Medicare law will allow hundreds of thousands of Americans who are struggling to pay their prescription drug costs to get extra help during these tough economic times,” said Commissioner Astrue. “I am thrilled that Chubby Checker has volunteered to help us spread this important message through a new television, radio, and Internet spot as well as pamphlets and posters.”
A bonus “twist” is that the application you file for extra help can now start the application process for Medicare Savings Programs as well—state programs that provide help with other Medicare costs. These programs help pay Medicare Part B (medical insurance) premiums. For some people, the Medicare Savings Programs also pay Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) premiums, if any, and Part A and B deductibles and co-payments.
“Listen up, America! For 50 years, people of all ages and backgrounds have danced the Twist,” Chubby Checker said. “Now it’s important everyone learn about this new twist in the law. Check it out at www.socialsecurity.gov.” April/May 2010 May/June 2010
• Assistance people receive from others to pay for household expenses, such as food, rent, mortgage, or utilities, no longer counts as income.
To learn more about the extra help program and to view the new television spot featuring Chubby Checker, visit Social Security online at www.socialsecurity.gov/extrahelp.
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1. Counterfeit 4. _____ Trick 7. European automobile maker 10. Wife of Juan Peron 11. Formerly ‘CLAY’ 12. An expert 13. Ranks above a lieutenant 15. Bind 16. Feel indignant about 18. Pops 21. Simultaneous discharge of bombs 24. Metric area units
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25. Change course 26. Parts of a chromosome 28. Lateral surfaces 29. Prophet 31. _____ Offensive 33. Japanese female entertainers 37. Malt beverage 38. Strive 39. College degree 40. Prehistoric 41. Cunning 42. Mo.
1. Ask for alms 2. St. 3. One of twelve sons of Jacob 4. Rodentlike mammals 5. Expression of pity 6. Playing pieces in Mahjong 7. Struggled 8. Communications company 9. Very small 14. Frequently made of rubber 17. Military organizations
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18. Droop 19. One-hundredth of a krone 20. Indicated 22. V 23. Alternatives 27. Heroic legends 28. Viscous 30. Overlay with wood 31. Faith 32. Right-angled annex 34. Medical plan 35. ‘Good Morning America’ network 36 College entrance exam
May/June 2010
If you’re 50 or better, want to meet new people, learn more about your health, travel and just have fun – then Senior Circle is for you. Member Discounts
Healthy Perks
• • • •
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Save money, live healthy and have fun. Join the Circle.
Lunch and Learn Meet New Friends Exercise Programs Group Activities Group Travel
And that’s just the beginning. There are new programs and offerings available all the time! Dues are just $15 a year. Call 337-475-4002 to learn more and become part of the Circle.
Women & Children’s H O S P I T A L
w w w. w o m e n - c h i l d r e n s. c o m * when staffing and availability permit
May/June 2010
48218_WCH_SC_9x5_4c.indd 2
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4/9/10 9:58 AM
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Food Savvy
y t r a P zza i P with
With so much going on from graduations to weddings, the celebration of mothers and fathers, and grandparents, there are plenty of occasions to have a party. And nothing is more perfect for a party than pizza! Quick and easy, there is no need to order out when you can easily have hot-out-ofthe-oven pizza in the comfort of your own home. These varieties of pizza are a great way to sneak in nutrition to please all ages, with the addition of delicious toppings such as nuts, fruit and veggies. Feel free to add your favorites too! I love to keep pizza crusts on hand to throw together party-pleasing pizzas at a moments notice.
For more great recipes, pick up a copy of Holly Clegg’s cookbook. It makes a perfect gift for Mother’s Day!
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May/June 2010
APPLE, BRIE, AND BROWN SUGAR PIZZA Oh my goodness….this is the absolute best!! Imagine a thin crisp crust topped with rich, creamy Brie and cinnamon apples. This pizza could be served for brunch, a snack or a light dessert. Makes 8 slices 1 (13.8-ounce) can refrigerated pizza crust 4 ounces Brie, rind removed and thinly sliced 1 large baking apple, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced 3 tablespoons chopped pecans 3 tablespoons light brown sugar 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
r refe :Ip s t i b d e Ti appl ific Terr y Smith rt and ny n a Gran y are t e Brie. A ed e k as th liment th nd, unba . u p e o s r u d com , thin y be a e g m r la ust a cr pizz
SHRIMP DELUXE PIZZA Shrimp and a great assortment of my favorite fresh ingredients make this an amazing pizza. For a vegetarian pizza, simply omit the shrimp. Makes 6–8 slices 1 (12-inch) thin pizza crust 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon minced garlic 1 tablespoon dried basil leaves 1/4 pound sliced mushrooms 2 cups fresh baby spinach 1/2 pound medium peeled shrimp, seasoned and cooked 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes 1/4 cup chopped red onion 1/4 pound fresh sliced Mozzarella cheese, or 1 cup shredded, part-skim, Mozzarella cheese
1. Preheat oven 450˚F. 2. On top of pizza crust, arrange Brie and apple slices concentrically around crust. In small bowl, mix together remaining ingredients, sprinkle over apples. 3. Bake 10–12 minutes or until cheese is melted and apples are tender. Slice, serve. Nutritional information per serving: Calories 193, Calories from fat (%) 33, Fat (g) 7, Saturated Fat (g) 3, Cholesterol (mg) 14, Sodium (mg) 328, Carbohydrate (g) 26, Dietary Fiber (g) 1, Sugars (g) 10, Protein (g) 6, Diabetic Exchanges: 1 1/2 starch, 1 medium-fat meat
1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Coat crust with oil and garlic. Sprinkle with basil. 2. In small nonstick skillet coated with nonstick cooking spray, sauté mushrooms about 5 minutes or until tender. Add spinach, stirring until wilted. 3. Evenly spoon spinach mixture over crust and top with remaining ingredients. Bake 8–10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and crust is browned. Nutritional information per serving: Calories 189, Calories from fat (%) 35, Fat (g) 8, Saturated Fat (g) 3, Cholesterol (mg) 65, Sodium (mg) 265, Carbohydrate (g) 17, Dietary Fiber (g) 1, Sugars (g) 2, Protein (g) 13, Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 ½ medium-fat meat
Terrific Tidbit: Fresh mozzarella cheese has different texture and taste than packaged mozzarella cheese. Slightly higher in fat but I think worth the flavor. May/June 2010
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sauce. Sprinkle evenly with Gouda, Mozzarella, red onion, chicken and green onions. 4. Bake 8-10 minutes or until light golden brown. Nutritional information per serving: Calories 303, Protein (g) 24, Carbohydrate (g) 29, Fat (g) 9, Calories from Fat (%) 27, Saturated Fat (g) 5, Dietary Fiber (g) 1, Cholesterol (mg) 58, Sodium (mg) 612, Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch
HOLLY CLEGG Holly Clegg, author of the best selling trim&TERRIFIC™ cookbook series including a diabetic cookbook with the ADA and Eating Well Through Cancer, has sold almost 1 million copies. Holly has appeared on national shows including Fox & Friends, NBC Weekend Today, and The 700 Club. Known as the healthy “Queen of Quick,” her focus is on fast, easy and healthier recipes using everyday ingredients.
BARBECUE CHICKEN PIZZA With a purchased crust and leftover or rotisserie chicken, this scrumptious pizza is easy to make. Add different toppings or leftover vegetables. For a short cut, pick up frozen grilled cooked chicken strips or breasts-I keep them in the freezer. Makes 8 servings 1 pound skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces Salt and pepper to taste 3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoon barbecue sauce, divided 1 (10-ounce) can prepared pizza crust or Boboli crust 1 cup shredded Gouda cheese 1 cup shredded part-skim Mozzarella cheese 1 small red onion, thinly sliced 2 green onions, chopped 1. Preheat oven 425°F. 2. In large nonstick skillet, season chicken with salt and pepper and stir-fry over medium heat until done. Remove to bowl and toss with 2 Tablespoons barbecue sauce. 3. Coat nonstick pizza pan with nonstick cooking spray. Unroll dough and place in pan; starting at center, press out with hands. Spread pizza crust with remaining 3/4 cup 24
You can check out Holly’s Web site at www.HollyClegg.com or her blog The Healthy Cooking Blog Project6:Layout 1 3/16/10 10:33 AM Page 1
Let Our Home Be Yours! Retirement brings the freedom to follow your heart and pursue new interests. Let us bring the peace of security, contentment and happiness to you. Enjoy exercising and water aerobics with FREE membership to OLQH Family Life Center, right next door.
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Celebrating Our 15th Anniversary!
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May/June 2010
Savvy Events
Buddy Guy at Delta Event Center May 8 On Sat., May 8, Buddy Guy will be playing his many blues hits at the Delta Event Center at Delta Downs for a onenight-only performance, starting at 8 p.m. He’s a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, a chief guitar influence to rock titans like Hendrix, Clapton, Beck, and Vaughan, a pioneer of Chicago’s fabled West Side sound, and a living link to that city’s halcyon days of electric blues. Buddy has received five GRAMMY Awards, 23 W.C. Handy Blues Awards (the most any artist has received), the Billboard Magazine Century Award for distinguished artistic achievement, and the Presidential National Medal of Arts. Don’t miss him! Tickets start at $20 and are available online at www.deltadowns.com or www.ticketmaster.com.
Starks Mayhaw Festival May 13-15 Mayhaw jelly, Mayhaw butter, Mayhaw berries…it must be time for the Starks Mayhaw Festival! This tart little berry has been celebrated throughout the South, but especially in Starks. Try your hand at jelly making and catch a glimpse of the Mayhaw Queen and her court. This family-friendly festival has carnival rides for the kids and kids at heart, and live music for those dancin’ May/June 2010
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fools! There will be plenty of Mayhaw berries and jelly to go around, and of course, some delicious Southwest Louisiana fare as well. The festival will be held at the corner of Highways 109 and 12 in Starks, May 13 and 14 from 4-10 p.m., and May 15 from 8:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. Get there early on Saturday morning for hot biscuits, homemade jelly and fresh-churned butter. Admission is free. For more information, call (337) 743-6297.
Wild Beast Feast May 15
back for the Super Bowl champion New Orleans Saints. Cocktail attire is required, as the evening will feature elegant surroundings, gourmet dining, music and an auction. Funds raised at the event will directly benefit the community through the continued funding of biomedical research and ongoing educational programs. Tickets are $100 per person. For more information about the event or to purchase tickets, call Laura Broussard at the American Heart Association at (337) 781-2198.
Sulphur Heritage Days May 28-29
Step into spring with a song in your heart and join the Lake Charles Symphony at the Wild Beast Feast, featuring culinary creations of teams composed of local sportsmen. They will be serving up savory delicacies of game, pork, poultry, and seafood. Also, you will not want to miss out on the glamorous auction offering exclusive dinners, vacations and hunting trips, and more. This family event will be at the Brick House, located at 110 Pine St.; from 5-8 p.m. Admission is $30 for adults and $15 for children ages 7-14 at the door. Advanced tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for children. For more information about the Lake Charles Symphony and upcoming concerts, call (337) 433-1611 and visit www.lcsymphony.org.
Celebrate the rich heritage of Sulphur with the city that was founded, funded and conceived on the discovery of--sulfur! Once known as “The Richest 50 Acres in the World,” the discovery of sulfur put presentday Sulphur on the map in the late 1800s. This year, the 7th annual Sulphur Heritage Days celebrates the discovery of this mineral the weekend before Memorial Day. While you’re at the festival, on the grounds of Heritage Square, in between Ruth and Huntington Streets, sneak away to the Brimstone Museum, at 900 S. Huntington St., to see more about the sulfur mining process, and see how the town grew up. Head outside to celebrate with arts and crafts booths, carnival rides and even the queens of the festival! Be sure to pick up some of that delicious food, or try your hand at whipping up a Cajun specialty in the Jambalaya Cookoff. Celebrate with locals and tourists alike in this tight-knit community. For more information on the festival, call Sulphur City Hall at (337) 527-4505. For information on the cook-off, call (337) 527-0357.
American Heart Association Heart Ball May 21
Catch–A–Concert Series Mondays June 7-July 4
The SWLA chapter of the American Heart Association has scheduled its annual Heart Ball for May 21 at the Historic Calcasieu Marine Building. The black and goldthemed event will begin at 6:30 p.m. and will feature guest speaker Tracy Porter, corner-
If you like good music and the great outdoors, then grab your favorite blanket or comfy lawn chair and soak in the music each Monday evening during the Catch-a-Concert Series by the Lake Charles Community
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Band. The free concerts start at 7 p.m. at the Lake Charles Civic Center Arcade Pavilion. Music-lovers are encouraged to bring a picnic dinner and enjoy the sunset over the lake. The band, under the direction of Rod Lauderdale and Leo Murray, will play musical favorites from past and present. In case of rain, the concerts will be held at the Mezzanine at the Lake Charles Civic Center. For more information, contact the Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau at (337) 436-9588 or visit www.visitlakecharles.org.
0ld Time Boxers’ Reunion June 6 We’re calling all Louisiana high school boxers from 1931-1958 for the Old Time Boxers’ Reunion! Catch up on great stories with great people. The event will be held on June 6 at Burton Coliseum on Gulf Highway in Lake Charles. Purchase your $5 reunion raffle ticket today for a chance to win an autographed George Foreman Boxing Glove with display case, a 1930’s boxers’ painting and a George Foreman Grill. For more information, contact Sonny Brunson at 528-2483
Ninth Annual Lake Charles High School Reunion: All Graduating Classes - July 17 For nearly a decade, Lake Charles High School has held an open reunion for all classes. This year, there will be a special tribute to the band and cheerleaders. The open reunion will be at 10 a.m. at Lake Charles-Boston Academy of Learning, 1509 Enterprise Blvd., on Sat., July 17. Band members who are interested in attending or performing at the reunion should contact Shelley Galloway Johnson at sjohnson@visitlakecharles.org or Charlotte LaFargue Rewerts at crewerts@juno.com.
May/June 2010
Downtown at Sundown is on the Horizon!
The City of Lake Charles and the Arts and Humanities Council of Southwest Louisiana recently announced the line up for the 12th Annual Downtown at Sundown concert series. The event will take place at the Downtown Merchants parking lot at the corners of Ryan and Broad streets from 6-9 p.m. on four consecutive Fridays. The free shows feature a variety of music from local and regional bands. Also offered are food and beverage booths, tabletop galleries, art sales and children’s activities. Events such as Downtown at Sundown help establish downtown Lake Charles as a thriving urban community offering something exciting for its residents, businesses and visitors. Corporate sponsorships have made it possible for an estimated number of 2,000 attendees each week to gather and enjoy the family-friendly event. The American Press, Entergy, Global Industries, and Whitney National Bank
nd ssard a T Brou Steppers o ec the Zyd
have been faithful sponsors and continue as sponsors once again this year. Mayor Randy Roach said, “We greatly appreciate the support of our Downtown at Sundown sponsors and encourage everyone to come out and enjoy this year’s concert series. The public’s enthusiasm over the years for Downtown at Sundown has helped make this event an increasingly popular attraction for our area, and we are grateful for their continued support.” Downtown at Sundown reaffirms downtown Lake Charles as the premier destination for young professionals, business people, and families alike. This year’s line-up will be:
May 14 Travis Matte and the Kingpins May 21 Whiskey South May 28 T-Broussard and the Zydeco Steppers June 4 Static
Travis Matte
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Whiskey South
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For the first installment of the concert series, downtown Lake Charles will erupt with the explosive Zydeco music of Travis Matte and the Kingpins. In 2004, the group released their first album entitled Dis Ain’tcha Momma’s Zodico, and since their appearance in the Louisiana music world, Zydeco music hasn’t been the same. The group blends together various musical styles and influences that go beyond just Zydeco, in-
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cluding rock and hip-hop. There’s no better way to ignite this year’s
Lake Charles Civic Center. Concertgoers are encouraged to bring their lawn chairs; however, no outside beverages or pets are allowed on-site. For more information, call the Arts and Humanities Council at 337-439-2787 or visit www.artsandhumanitiescouncilswla. org.
Downtown at Sundown! If inclement weather prevails, the concerts will be held inside the
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April/May May/June 2010
Savvy Tidbits
A Home
Fall Prevention Checklist for Older Adults
E
ach year, thousands of older Americans fall at home. Many of them are seriously injured, and some are disabled. In 2002, more than 12,800 people over age 65 died and 1.6 million were treated in emergency rooms because of falls. Falls are often due to hazards that are easy to overlook but easy to fix. This checklist will help you find and fix those hazards in your home. The checklist from the National Institute on Aging asks about hazards found in each room of your home. For each hazard, the checklist tells you how to fix the problem. At the end of the checklist, you’ll find other tips for preventing falls.
Floors
Look at the floor in each room.
√√When you walk through a room, do you have to walk around furniture? Ask someone to help move the furniture so your path is clear.
√√Do you have throw rugs on the floor? Remove the rugs or use double-sided tape or a non-slip backing so the rugs won’t slip. √√Are there papers, books, towels, shoes, magazines, May/June 2010
boxes, blankets, or other objects on the floor? Pick up everything. It’s always important to keep objects off the floor.
√√Do you have to walk over or around wires or cords (such as lamp, telephone, or extension cords)? Coil or tape cords and wires next to the wall so you can’t trip over them. If needed, have an electrician put in another outlet.
Stairs and Steps
Look at the stairs you use both inside and outside your home.
√√Are there papers, shoes, books, or other objects on the stairs? Pick everything up and always keep objects off the stairs. √√Are some steps broken or uneven? Fix loose or uneven steps.
√√Are you missing a light over the stairway? Have an electrician put in an overhead light at the top and bottom of the stairs. √√ Do you have only one light switch for your stairs (only at the top or only at the bottom of the stairs)? Have a light switch installed at both the top and
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29
bottom of the stairs. You can even get light switches that glow.
√√Has the stairway light bulb burned out? Have a friend or family member change it. √√Is the carpet on the steps loose or torn? Make sure the carpet is firmly attached to every step, or remove the carpet and attach non-slip rubber treads to the stairs.
√√Are the handrails loose or broken? Is there a handrail on only one side of the stairs? Fix loose handrails or put in new ones. Make sure handrails are on both sides of the stairs and are as long as the stairs.
Kitchen
Look at your kitchen and eating area.
√√Are the things you use often on high shelves? Move items in your cabinets. Keep things you use often on the lower shelves (about waist level). √√Is your step stool unsteady? If you must use a step stool, get one with a bar to hold on to. Never use a chair as a step stool.
Bedrooms
Look at your bedroom floor (and walk-in closet if you have one)
√√ Is the light near the bed hard to reach? Place a lamp close to the bed where it’s easy to reach.
√√Is the path from your bed to the bathroom dark? Put in a night-light so you can see where you’re walking. Some night-lights go on by themselves after dark.
Other ways to prevent falls
√√Exercise regularly. Exercise makes you stronger and improves your balance and coordination.
√√Have your doctor or pharmacist look at all the medicines you take, even over-the-counter medicines. Some can make you sleepy or dizzy. √√Have your vision checked at least once a year by an eye doctor. Poor vision can increase your risk of falling.
Bathrooms
Look at your bathroom floor and tub or shower area.
√√Is the tub or shower floor slippery? Put a non-slip rubber mat or self-stick strips on the floor of the tub or shower.
Never use a chair as a step stool.
√√Do you need some support when you get in and out of the tub or up from the toilet? Have a carpenter put grab bars inside the tub and next to the toilet.
√√Get up slowly after you sit or lie down.
√√Wear shoes both inside and outside the house. Avoid going barefoot or wearing slippers.
√√Improve the lighting in your home. Put in brighter light bulbs. Florescent bulbs are bright and cost less to use. It’s safest to have uniform lighting in a room. Add lighting to dark areas. √√Hang lightweight curtains or shades to reduce glare.
√√Paint a contrasting color on the top edge of all steps so you can see the stairs better. For example, use light color paint on dark wood.
Other Safety Tips
√√Keep emergency numbers in large print near each phone.
√√Put a phone near the floor in case you fall and can’t get up—or always keep your cell phone on you. √√Think about wearing an alarm device that will bring help in case you fall and can’t get up.
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April/May May/June 2010
?
How Does Obamacare Affect Long-Term Care Planning By Blake Rainey
A
lot of people are asking what affect the new health care laws will have on them and their families as it relates to the long-term care issues that we typically address, primarily from the standpoint of Medicaid and long-term care payment. If you are concerned or unsure of the ramifications of this new law, you should know that very little will be changed by way of this legislation regarding these issues. There is a provision that will allow for payroll deduction for a “government-funded” long-term care benefit, but it will not likely affect current retirees at all. As to the End of Life Counseling and such, it remains unclear to me exactly what that will ultimately look like. Many believed that this legislation would bring in vast changes to the existing rules and regulations for Medicaid Long-Term Care (LTC). Inasmuch as I have read the law and the multiple compilations that summarize what the law says, I have not found anything that changes the existing guidelines. You may remember that the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005 made some sweeping changes to the rules and caused families and planners alike to adjust their methods of protecting assets and securing eligibility. We could certainly see changes in the future, but the current legislation doesn’t call for it. Furthermore, I had lunch with a small group of local businessmen including Congressman John Fleming recently, and May/June 2010
his comments lead me to believe that much of the law will still see major changes as repeal challenges and lack of funding will alter the outcome of much, if not all, of the legislation. So, if you thought that planning for longterm care was not available since the health care bill passed, nothing could be further from the truth. Now, let’s look at the other side of the coin: This legislation that seems to promise health care for everyone is not a golden ticket for your retirement. Do not be comforted that this law will enact any benefits for you if you need to go into a nursing home. IT WILL NOT. The longterm care side of Medicaid is very different than community-based Medicaid. There are different income and asset limitations for the LTC program, and while the costs of this side of Medicaid are astronomical, the powers that be knew it needed to be a topic for another day and not dealt with within the scope of the health care reform battle that has been going on for the last year or so. Changes are sure to come, and some will be for the better. For example, it appears that Louisiana is taking steps to implement the ability to get Medicaid benefits in the home or assisted living facility on a broader basis than has previously been experienced in the Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) program. My understanding is that it is not fully available at www.savvyandsage.com
this time, but it is certainly an avenue that we will continue to watch for, and we will do our part to make it known to the public when it is available. Alternatively, the National Association of State Medicaid Directors (NASMD) has requested that CMS, the federal end of the Medicaid program, review its policy towards certain planning techniques that allow planners to help preserve assets for their clients. The request by NASMD seems to be somewhat of a cry-baby attempt to have CMS override what the previously mentioned Deficit Reduction Act of 2005 states clearly as acceptable practices. I don’t expect this request by NASMD to get much traction, but as always, we will be on top of any proposed changes. In summary, our new health care law will have sweeping affects on the delivery of health care in our country. At this point, it will have little affect on the long-term care side of the Medicaid program. Those of you who are concerned about these issues should deal with a professional that has a vested interest in these changes and has a practice that handles them daily. This should allow you to keep abreast of changes as they come, and how they affect you and yours. Blake Rainey is an employee of S.A.F.E Planning in Shreveport, LA. For more information, call (888) 836-2738. 31
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