Shreveport/Bossier Edition
July/August 2010
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Old Home Remedies We the People
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Meeting the Needs of Your Older Pets Blog for Your Grandchildren Grill and Chill from Holly Clegg
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Publisher’s Note What a summer we have had! It’s been unbelievable to say the least! We’ve been busy as all get out while having as much fun as anyone could ever wish for. Fishing, swimming, winning the District All-Star Championship, and going on a cruise to Mexico is more than enough fun to last me a while. (See my sweet family to the right!) But, on top of that, for Father’s Day, my eight-year-old son, Fox, and I, went to see the last College World Series to ever be held at Rosenblatt Stadium in Omaha, Nebraska. I know a lot of folks out there could care less about college baseball, but anyone who has ever had a chance to go, would never forget it. What a phenomenal experience and wonderful memories! FYI, we have recently updated our mailing list and will continue to do so periodically. Because the list always changes, please hang on to your latest Savvy & Sage until your new one has arrived. If for some reason you don’t receive it, please fill out the complementary subscription card and mail it back to us. Thanks so much for your continued interest and readership! I truly hope that you have also had a wonderful summer, and let’s all pray that it cools off soon!
Greg Locke
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table of contents Remember: you can read us online too!
savvyandsage.com
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Old Home Remedies
8
We The People
11
In This Issue
Elaine Marze Royal Alexander
The Fishing Hole “Skeeter” Mills
14 Meeting The Needs Of Your Older Pets Debbie Ray
16 Your House As A Painting Karen Rhodes
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18 Blog For Your Grandchildren Debra Conrad
22 Don’t Be A Dinosaur
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Blake Rainey
24 Puzzles 26 Grill & Chill Holly Clegg
29 Keeping Washington Politics
Out Of The Oil Spill Response Sen. David Vitter
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30 New York Life Supports
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31 32
Paxton Youth Boxing What’s Happening In Shreveport Summer Fun In The Southern Sun Elaine Marze
36 Invite Butterflies Into 36
Your Landscape Dan Gill
38 Basic Coaching For
The Golfing Beginner Noel Malcombe
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Savvy & Sage has made every effort to maintain the accuracy of information presented in this magazine, but assume no responsibility for errors, changes or omissions. The opinions of the personalities featured in Savvy & Sage do not necessarily express those held by Savvy & Sage or The Locke Group, Inc. Savvy & Sage Magazine is published bi-monthly by Locke Group Inc. at 520 Spring Street, Suite 202, Shreveport, LA 71101. Phone 318.429.8311. Fax 318.429.8453. Email greg@savvyandsage.com. All rights reserved. Savvy & Sage is printed by Branch-Smith Printing, Fort Worth, TX, 800-315-4110.
July/August 2010
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Savvy Health
Old Home
Remedies BY ELAINE MARZE
P
rofessional medical care was not readily available to the general populace back in the days when more people lived in rural areas, and one-car families were the rule, not the exception. Prior to hospitalization provided by insurance and government programs, people sometimes waited until they were nearly dying before seeking medical help. Some of the home remedies many of us grew up with probably originated in pioneer days when folks self-medicated with herbs and “cures” handed down for generations. Some of that old-timey home healthcare survives today; perhaps to the dismay of modern physicians. During this age where the internet is available for researching ailments and the emergency room is open to all, it may be surprising to discover that old remedies are still being used. And, in an effort to bypass the many drugs that are prescribed “willy-nilly” (an old term meaning “haphazardly”) some people are turning back to the old ways while others never stopped using treatments they were familiar with as children. When people over 50 discuss the remedies of their youth, you can bet they remember how, when cold or
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flu-like symptoms presented themdrink three beers, one right after the came to visit us, she was not able to selves, mothers and grandmothers other, it will dissolve that stone.” walk up the stairs, but after a friend made us swallow a dollop of Vick’s Another one of the ladies had shared an old cure for arthritis with VapoRub Ointment regardless that this to say, “Beer has something in it her, she climbed the stairs with ease. the directions on the jar say that dissolves kidney stones, but you The special cure called for white not to take interhave to be raisins (can’t use dark raisins) to be nally. Vick’s was sitting on the soaked in gin, and then she had to Wet tobacco has also crammed bed to drink eat a specified number of raisins each been used to soothe bee up stuffy nostrils ‘em because day. She had been eating her special & wasp stings for generations. and slathered on you’ll probaraisins a week or so when Inez not heated flannel bly pass right only climbed our stairs, but she felt cloths to make smelly chest comout. And, it’s better if you don’t pass so spry after a dose of gin-soaked raipresses to cure head and chest colds. out on the floor!” sins that she crawled on the back of And, there is nothing like sitting next “No, no,” said another wise sage, a four-wheel ATV and took a wild, to some kid on the school bus who is “She needs to be sitting on the potty downhill ride on a bumpy dirt road! taking a Vick’s cure to open up nasal because beer runs right through you! My husband thought his momma passages! Vick’s has also been credAnd, when you can’t stand upright to was consuming a few more raisins ited with curing rashes. get to the potty, well … you know than the “cure” called for, but let it be I grew up in a small rural town what can happen.” known, Inez Marze never drinks the where home remedies were comI’m a Coke drinker, not a beer gin. She eats the raisins for medicinal monly considered smart doctoring. drinker, and since I cannot drink purposes only! Like when my brother was bitten by a three cokes one right after the other I’ve got to say though, that a jar snake, our step-father decided a wad I was very doubtful about being able filled with gin-soaked white raisins is of chewing tobacco would draw the to drink three beers, especially since not appetizing to look at, but is easy poison out just as well as any doctor the smell of beer nauseates me. But, to carry in a purse and when the pain could, and since my brother did not considering the choices of passing a comes on, the raisins are handy. Her die from the bite, it may have worked large stone, having surgery or tryjar of raisins doesn’t take up any more … or the snake may not have been ing to drink three beers … well, it room than a bottle of Ibuprofen, and poisonous. Wet tobacco has been wasn’t a difficult choice. Apparently they seem to help a lot more. used to soothe bee and wasp stings though, the ladies were right about Inez also keeps a Buckeye ball for generations. it taking three beers because I could in her pocket, or in the event she A few months ago my doctor said only drink two, and had to have surdoesn’t have a pocket, it is nestled I needed to have a kidney stone surgigery after all. in her bosom. Buckeye balls kept on cally removed because it was too large (Obviously there’s a vast amount the body are believed to help prevent to pass naturally. Having had kidney of untapped medicinal knowledge aches and pains caused by rheumastones before, I was not looking foramong seniors that needs to be investism. I’ve seen her pull out her buckward to the “passing” or to surgery tigated further, and may have home eye ball at various times trying to so I eagerly listened when a member health care website potential. Several educate the uninformed about its of a senior ladies Sunday school class home remedies whispered to me that she knew a cure deem alcoholic bevThe special cure called for kidney stones. It was on a Sunday erages to contain for white raisins... night at a local church when several miraculous healing silver-haired, born and bred Baptist properties – if used ladies gathered round to “advise” me per instructions.) on the cure. When my “You’re not going to want to do 82-year-old motherthis,” one lady said, “but if you will in-law, Inez Marze, July/August 2010
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went barefoot, there were many occasions that called for turpentine and kerosene! l el ch it M a Turpentine is e & Rowen Inez Marz Bonn reputed to be excelBobb ie Sue & y Mo ore. lent for cuts and healing merits. My late father-in-law takes the soreness out also kept one in his pocket till his of stone bruises. I was dying day. told that two drop of turpentine on As previously stated, I was no a lump of sugar will rid children of stranger to home remedies growto me like they had the potential pinworms, and covering ringworms ing up, but when I married into the for danger. Inez’ daddy, Henry Will in fig milk will cure them. Marze-Dowden family, I consider Dowden, soaked his eight kid’s feet Bobby Moore is adamant that that I hit the in kerosene when his Grandpa Brooks cured him of mother-lode they had colds. ever having an ear ache again after Buckeye balls kept on the body of home remThen they had he packed Bobby’s aching ear with are believed to help prevent edy folk lore. to hold their feet a boiled dirt dauber’s nest when aches and pains caused I have written up in front of the Bobby was eight. He’s 62 now. by rheumatism. before about mud (not brick) Bobby’s dad had a recipe for drawing how my husfireplace to heat poison out of a wound that mixed band’s aunt shapes warped babies’ up their kerosene-soaked feet. sulphur and pine rosin. heads by squishing and squashing till Kerosene and turpentine were I have it on good authority that they are well-rounded. Aunt Rowena, necessary staples in home health care putting a collard leaf on a hot stove to 92, also gave her niece, Bonnie Sue, at one time. My mother had eight wilt and then laying it on a mother’s a sure-fire cure for Whooping Cough siblings and Grandma Byrd soaked breast will get her milk flowing and when her son, Robby, was sick. Auntie their feet ease soreness. Row told Bonnie Sue to boil a Blue in kerosene Then, if a Bay leaves added jay (yes, the bird) and have Robby and tallow baby has colic, to a pot of beans drink the broth. Robby’s daddy shot to protect a good mother will prevent gas. a Blue-jay which Bonnie Sue plucked them from will make and boiled. Robby drank the broth, sickness. weak tea from but as it turned out, he had pneuI remember when one of my aunts two or three sweet bay leaves to ease monia instead of Whooping Cough gashed her foot open. Grandpa held the colic. Also, bay leaves added to a so the benefits of drinking Blue-jay Charlotte Kaye down and poured pot of beans will prevent gas. broth may be unproven in the minds kerosene on her bleeding foot. Based Some of the remedies quoted in of some doubting Thomas’s. on her reaction, I figured it hurt. A this article came from Bonnie Sue’s Some of the old remedies seem lot. And since most country kids church ladies at Toledo Bend Baptist 6
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Church. Among those submissions a little “devil’s” nest growing on it. is a cure for boils which calls for Pull it (the devil’s nest) off, sew it in drinking one glass of tomato juice a little sack or cloth and tie it around mixed with one packet of yeast for the baby’s neck to prevent painful six days straight to dry up the boils. teething. Another remedy And, in case for boils is to eat Turpentine is reputed you are out of wasp one teaspoon of to be excellent for cuts spray and you must white sand from pull a wasp’s nest and takes the soreness a creek bed, or down, first rub out of stone bruises. make a poultice your hand underwith pine rosin or neath your armpit, raw salt bacon to bring it to a head. and you won’t get stung. Raw bacon fat laid on a splinter will I could go on and on listing remalso draw the splinter out, though the edies that some people may consider meat may have to “ripen” a bit on site silly, old wives’ tales, but others give to do the job right. credence to. What one person swears Other folk lore includes a remby, another will scorn, and I offer no edy for babies who are cutting teeth. guarantees for any of the remedies Find an old plank of wood that has written about here. Actually, I’ve left
July/August 2010
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some of the more unusual treatments out lest readers think this is pure fiction, but I surely believe more medical folk lore should be documented before it is forgotten. In fact, it may be wise to stop by the nearest senior ladies Sunday school class the next time you have an ailment -- unless you are a mite squeamish about eating gin-soaked white raisins or having your ear packed full of dirt dauber clay? Elaine Marze is a freelance writer who also works in public relations and advertising. She can be reached at elmarz7@yahoo.com.
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Savvy Politics
We People the
A look at The Red River
Tea Party
BY ROYAL ALEXANDER
M
any writers and political pundits have tried in recent months to analyze and dissect the Tea Party phenomenon sweeping the country. I must say that as an active participant from the very inception, the answer is really quite simple: we are citizen patriots in the traditional sense of those words. We don’t feel government knows better than we do how we should live our lives -- we think “We the People” do. We are weary and fed up with the intrusion of government into every aspect of American life, continually flouting the will and the “Consent of the Governed.” We are fearful of trillion dollar deficits and how they undermine the very vitality of the American econ-
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omy by stealing from the workers to allow the government to buy the votes of select special interests. And, while many of us may not be able to explain the complexities of the Federal Reserve, we all clearly understand the generational theft that is now being perpetuated by the government under accounting rules that put Bernie Madoff and the Enron executives in federal prison for many years; and we do grasp that our grandchildren will be $36,000 in debt the moment he or she is born. We also believe that the government should return to its fundamental obligations under the First Principles of the Constitution: Providing for a common defense and ensuring domestic tranquility, rather than spending our hard earned tax www.savvyandsage.com
dollars on the mating habits of fish, the genetics of grapes, the odor of pigs, sacrilegious and offensive socalled art that is pornographic and funded by National Endowment for the Arts, and now, with the new health care law just passed, the very real possibility of taxpayer funding of abortion. Further, while we favor targeted reforms, we also think the new health care law is unconstitutional because, among many things, it imposes a mandate -- unprecedented in our history--that virtually every American purchase health care, whether they need it, want it, or morally oppose some of the uses made of the money they are forced to pay for it. We also believe deeply in our July/August 2010
involved with the political process U.S. Constitution --- which we feel before. We have some Democrats is being violated daily with impuand Republicans in our group but nity and indeed, mockery --- and the largest number of our members that it means what it says: That the are Independents. We also have sevFirst Amendment’s promise of reeral Libertarians in the group as well ligious liberty extends to all of us, as a few Constitution Party and Noand is in truth, a freedom “of” reliParty folks. Our group is made up of gion, rather than a freedom “from” blacks, whites, Hispanics and Asians. religion; that “the right of the people We are men, women and children. to keep and bear arms shall not be We have single people and married; infringed” is real and clear. We also we have attorneys, doctors, single believe that the powers of the federal mothers who bring their children, fegovernment are limited and derived male business owners, blue collar and from the states, and that the 10th retired veterans. We have members Amendment’s command that “those who focus more on fiscal issues and powers not delegated to the federal some who focus more on social and government are reserved to the states religious ones. We welcome them all and to the people” is not merely for their diversity. Finally, while we a suggestion. know America is not perfect, we love Many in our local Red River Tea andPM firmly Party organization have &never TFG 1705 Cataract_Savvy Sage been 12/2/09 her 2:04 Page 1believe she is great
and that the world would be a much darker place without America in it. And, while we may appear “leaderless”--- a fact that drives mad the liberals and socialists who attack us --- we are not disorganized – and we all think for ourselves, rather than acting blindly on orders issued by an unelected “czar” who is unaccountable to the American people. We are truly the definition of a “grass roots” movement, and we are not going away. Royal Alexander Board Member, Red River Tea Party
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Savvy Hobbies
The
Fishing Hole BY “SKEETER” MILLS
H
ello fellow anglers! The fishing has been good the past few weeks. The weather for the most part has been just right, though some days it has been a little windy which makes for a rough lake. If any of ya’ll fish Toledo Bend then you know exactly what I mean. The temperatures have been in the mid 80’s to low 90’s lately. You need to bring plenty of fluids to drink while on the lake. Also, don’t forget the sunblock. Most days there has been some much needed cloud cover. One topic of concern for a lot of people is the giant salvinia. Giant salvinia is a sub-tropical, floating plant that can infest portions of a lake with ease. Everyone is cautioned to check their boat and boat trailer to make sure they are completely free of the salvinia so it is not transported to other lakes. The fishing on Toledo Bend has been pretty good. There are several patterns that have been producing quality bites. These patterns range from a shallow bite to a deep bite. Slow moving top water baits have been catching quite a few bass in the shallows early in the morning and at dusk. These baits include Chug Bugs, Frenzy Poppers, Stanley’s Ribbit, and Zoom’s Horny Toad. Most people who are throwing the Ribbit and Horny Toad are throwing them in the watermelon and watermelon red colors. When throwing the Ribbit or the Horny Toad, be sure
July/August 2010
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to let the bass take the bait for a split The crappie and bream have brush hogs. Spinner baits are still second or two. If you ‘hook set” too been biting pretty good, too. Several working fairly decent too. early, you’ll pull the bait right out of anglers have been catching good slabs On Sibley Lake in Natchithe fish’s mouth. Another tactic to try of crappie on shinners and jigs in about toches, the top water bite is good. in the shallows is a Wacky Rig. Most 20 to 25 feet of water. The bream Anglers are using a Ribbit or the anglers are have been Horny Toad and they are still catchusing a hitting the ing some quality fish on them. PopNoodling is where you w ater me lc r i c k e t s pers and Chug Bugs are working, pull a catfish out of a hole or on, wateron shallow too. Anglers are throwing a brush stump with your hands. melon red, beds (2 to 6 hog around docks and grass beds. watermelon ft) in most In the upcoming months, many candy, or red bug trick worm. You can coves and around some islands. anglers will be fishing at night. also throw a Senko Wacky Rig but I haven’t had as much time as I Nighttime is when a lot of your big many anglers are throwing it weightwould like to fish Vernon Lake this fish will be caught. Before dark, a less. One bait that I haven’t used year. While talking to a friend of Carolina rigged fluke or senko will yet but have heard several anglers mine, he told me he has caught some catch some quality bass, as will a catching some good fish on is the good fish on watermelon and water- DD-22 Crankbait. Also, try a Texas YUM Money Hound. The Money melon red soft plastics. Something rigged red bug, plum apple, or a Hound looks like a Zara Spook but it that a lot of people are doing now on watermelon red or candy Mag II. is a soft plastic bait without the treble Vernon Lake is noodling. Noodling After dark a majority of the anglers hooks. It can be rigged Texas style is where you pull a catfish out of a will use a Texas rigged Mag II without a weight and popped across hole or stump with your hands. On or an Ol’ Monster worm in a the top of the water. Vernon b l u e b e r r y, Once the sun comes up many Lake several red bug, Nighttime is when a lot of anglers are moving out to deeper people are or plum your big fish will be caught. apple color. water where they are throwing noodling on DD-22 Crankbaits, Carolina Rigs, the old road Some anglers and Texas Rigs. Most soft plastics bed and around the boat ramps. The will also throw a black buzzbait being used with the Carolina Rig and asphalt was left on top of the road or spinner bait to get that reaction Texas Rig are flukes, baby brush hogs, and the catfish are fanning out a sec- strike. lizards, and Mag II worms. The coltion under the asphalt and creating Remember to be courteous and ors include watermelon, watermelon an entrance to a hole, where they are mindful of the other boats on the lake. red, red bug, and plum apple. Don’t laying their eggs. My neighbor, on a Don’t forget to wear your life jackets. forget to dye the tails of your baits recent trip with his son, pulled sev- They save lives. Have fun and enjoy with Zoom’s Spike It Garlic scented eral Opelousas catfish, or flatheads, your fishing experience. Also, feel free Chartreuse dye. out from under the road bed. The to send me your favorite fishing stobiggest weighed approximately 35 ries. Until next time... pounds. They also had several 20 to 25 pounders. In the past, we have pulled several 80 pounders out from under the old road bed. On the Red River in Pool 3 near Natchitoches, several patterns are working. Crankbaits in a shad Skeeter is a member of the West color are working on the Central Bass Club in Leesville, La., inside of the rocks on the main and regularly fishes tournaments river. In the oxbows, anglers are flip- in area lakes. ping the bushes with watermelon red email: williammills001@yahoo.com 12
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Pet Savvy
Meeting the needs
Older Pets of Your
BY debbie ray
D
epending on the size and breed of your older pets, you may have noticed that it is a bit slower when chasing a ball, struggles a bit more getting up the first thing in the morning or loses its breath a bit quicker. The aging process wears down your pet in much the same way it does us, but on a much faster pace. While most human beings live to be 70+, a dog, depending on many factors, often lives for 10 years or less. Many dogs begin showing health/age related problems at different ages. This is related in a large way to the size of the animal. Despite all those size and age brackets there is no one hard and fast rule. The best way to judge is based on the individual animal and the changes in its own behavior and health. The best thing you can do for an older animal is to keep it healthy and not over or under weight. Also, keep your older pets exercised, but be careful not to overdo it. There are certain things you should look for in your pet as you do your grooming rituals. On the next page, find a list of several things to watch for, especially in your older pets.
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Teeth / Gums
Body / Coat Condition
Check your pet and see what is normal for it as “normal” may be different from one dog to another. Changes in gum color can indicate potential problems. Foul breath can be another warning sign as well as loss of weight, pawing at the mouth, excessive salivation, swallowing difficulty or other signs of pain.
Keeping your dog in shape cuts down on a lot of potential health problems - heart disease, etc. If the coat becomes overly flaky or there is excessive hair loss, your dog may have a hormonal problem which can be diagnosed through a simple blood test.
Lumps / Bumps Check your pet for these as you groom the animal. Masses are common and in most cases are benign but if you find a new one of these, consult your vet to have it checked as cancer is quite common in dogs, particularly those who have not been spayed or neutered early in life.
Heart Disease Changes in sleeping habits or coughing through the night can be indicators of canine heart disease. Frequent checkups can often prevent these types of diseases. Consult your vet with
any questions that you may have concerning your older pets. The needs of an older animal are often different so it is very important to maintain communication with much veterinarian concerning all your pets health problems or changes which are included in this advancing age process. Debbie Ray, owner of www. pedigreedpups.com and www.totalgerman-shepherd.com. Check out pedigreedpups.com for more info. Article written & reprinted with permission of: http://www.pedigreedpups.com. Purebred Dogs, Puppies and Dog Breeders “Your New Best Friend” Copyright 2005. All rights reserved.
Eyes If you notice a change in the dogs eyes, such as a bluish-gray tint, consult with your vet to see exactly what is the cause and what treatment is involved. Cataracts, genetic diseases and other causes are often the root of sight loss in older animals.
Mobility Arthritis is common in the older pets but other problems such as degenerative joint disease may be at the root of that stiffness in the mornings. Antiinflammatory drugs or steroids are often prescribed to aid in this problem. Common aspirin can also help but is often used as a last resort due to side effects.
Thirst / Elimination Changes Changes such as increased thirst or having to “go” more often are indications of potential kidney or bladder disease or maybe even diabetes. Check with your vet. July/August 2010
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Depression, extreme sadness Confused thinking, difficulty concentrating Hallucinations; hearing voices Misuse of alcohol or medications Disorientation Numerous unexplained physical ailments Difficulties coping with daily living Excessive fears, anxieties or suspiciousness 15
Savvy Home
Your House as a
Painting BY KAREN RHODES
O
ne effective way to tackle the decorative layout of your home is to approach it as you would a piece of art. There are several aspects of a painting that an artist will take into consideration in order to create a pleasing composition and the same goes for the rooms in your house or apartment. These are some of those key elements to keep in mind.
Framing
One of the most important, fundamental and overlooked aspects of painting is an appreciation of the frame. This does not refer to the wooden strips that a picture is “framed” in, in order to hang it up; but, rather, it refers to the relationship between the body of the painting and the area beyond its edges. Every artist makes the conscious decision to end his or her painting somewhere, to mark off a small area in which to create his or his art, to limit the scope of the painting and separate it from the rest of the world. In a home, think of each room as a distinct painting, and the boundaries of each room as its frame. When decorating, keep these frames in mind, and decorate within - as op16
posed to through - them. In other words, keep the elements of one room’s décor clearly within that room. You may establish a theme for the entire house, or for one floor, or for one multi-room space, but do not blend rooms into each other. Keep each room clearly defined; keep each painting inside its frame. Make it clear where the kitchen ends, and where the living room begins.
Golden Thirds
One of the first rules (or, less strictly, guiding principles) of artiswww.savvyandsage.com
tic composition is the rule of golden thirds: the simple concept that a composition’s main focus should be located somewhere on a set of imaginary lines that criss-cross a canvas at the horizontal and vertical intervals of one-third and two-thirds. In order to apply this concept to home decorating, visualize all the planes (floor, walls, ceiling) of a room, and use your imagination to “draw” the golden thirds across them. Then, try to concentrate your decorations along these lines. For example, establish a line one-third of the way July/August 2010
down your living room wall, and use it as guide as to how high to hang a set of paintings or other wall hangings; or, “draw” a line two-thirds of the way across your kitchen floor and place your kitchen table overtop of it. Usually, you’ll want to use one or two big elements, such as furniture, in combination with golden thirds so as to utilize the lines without making them obvious. In a more general way, the rule of golden thirds leads away from static, unimaginative, and rigid symmetry by forcing the artist - or decorator away from the very middle part of the composition.
Palette
After the frame is set, and the composition and concept complete, a painter decides on a palette with which to colour his or her painting. A good palette is usually minimal,
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featuring perhaps three colours that are then used and mixed to create an artwork with a dominant colour scheme, and therefore a strong character. In home decoration, a palette can take the form of at least three things: colors, just as in a painting; specific objects, like a collection of spoons or a set of rugs; or themes or motifs, such as seashells for the bathroom or arches for a hallway. The key to using any one of these types of palettes is to pick elements that both fit a room by themselves and that provide ample opportunities for fruitful combinations. And, also keep in mind that because each room is “taken in” at once, it is more important to make sure that the palette in each room is solid than it is to make sure that, say, the rug in the living room matches the one in your bedroom.
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Conclusion
Although home decoration is a different art than painting, both are, indeed, still arts. Therefore, the methods, techniques and theories that have been perfected throughout history in painting can be quite easily adapted to fit decorating. As American music composer Lukas Foss said: “Most people think an artist tries to be original, but originality is the last thing that develops in the artist.” So, even when no one notices that your beautiful new dining room is based on “a van Gogh”, they won’t miss that it’s still beautiful - and that’s all that matters. Karen Rhodes is a lifelong resident of the Chattanooga area and is a successful REALTOR®. Check out http:// www.ChattanoogaRealEstateToday. com for more information on Chattanooga and it’s surrounding areas.
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Tech Savvy
Blog
Grandchildren for your
BY DEBRA CONRAD
I
t is a fact that a lot of baby boomers have grandchildren. Some of you may have lots of grandchildren. Now is the time to keep connected. A blog is an easy, low-tech way to stay in touch. I am not going to define blogs, or give you a long history on blogging. It is a technology that has been available for years, but now it’s the hip thing to do. If you have ever thought of having a travel journal or cooking lessons for your family, this is the way to go. Doesn’t it seem that the grandkids are far more advanced in technology? They have a language of their own, and they rarely share. Often, you will find kids on a computer, cell phone or mp3 player and catching their attention is difficult. You want to be able to relate to them,
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but you’re not sure of the best way to communicate effectively. Blogging is one of these ways. If you use email to replace snail mail then you are on the right track. Diving into a new element of technology can be daunting, but don’t be afraid, starting a blog is easy and there are a lot of great reasons to start one. One great benefit is that the whole family can visit a blog, anytime. The pages never go away, so information is never lost. Blogs are also interactive. When you post to your blog, others can comment about that post so you can start a virtual dialogue with your family and friends. Blogs also allow photos. Say, for example, you want to write about your tomato plants. You can talk about how they have grown, how many tomatoes you have this year and then snap a photo with your digital camera and upload it for everyone to see. Another cool element of blogging is the option to record your voice. You can set up your blog to have little conversations recorded, or for those of us with granchildren out of state, you can record yourself reading a book aloud, and that recording would be posted for everyone to hear. You could even record your grandaughter’s favorite lullaby to sing her to sleep before bed without even being there. It’s hard to utilize all of these tools simply with email, and it may July/August 2010
even sound too technical, but baby boomers will find setting up a blog is as easy as setting up a new email account. You’ve heard of Google; it’s a household verb now. We don’t do a search online anymore, we Google it. Google has a service called Blogger. This page has all the information to get you started. http://www.blogger.com/start. The best part is it’s all free! You could be the coolest grandparents on the block, so take the plunge boomers; it’s easy and painless. Debra Conrad writes articles and blogs on technology for seniors. Read one of her other articles about MP3 players for baby boomers and other technology information at www.ipod-info.com/Why_Would_a_Baby_ Boomer_Need_an_iPod_.html
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One great benefit is that the whole family can visit a blog, anytime.
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have you failed to protect your assets? None of us knows what the future will hold so do yourself and your family a favor and call our offices now to safeguard those you love! Let our nationally recognized team of specialists • Protect your nest egg • Protect your savings from market risk • Protect you from nursing home spend-down requirements • Qualify you for nursing home care under Medicaid • Educate you about essential financial planning
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Rainey Asset Management uses the expertise of Matson Money, Inc. (CEO Mark Matson) to coach investors to help find financial peace of mind while establishing a true purpose for their money.
Stock picking, market timing and past performances investing do not work.
Savvy News
D INOSAUR Don’t Be A BY blake rainey
T
here is a lot of scientific evidence that the earth was once populated by different species of dinosaurs. Some were meat eaters; others were not. Some dinosaurs were land based while others could fly. Yet with all the diversity that existed between them not a single class of the species survives today. Why? If we can believe the scientific theories taught, the world as the dinosaurs knew it changed and changed drastically. They were unable to adapt and therefore became extinct. If they could have adapted to the changes they might still be roaming parts of the earth today. I believe the ability to adapt to change is a key factor in the success of our business and the type of assistance we are able to offer our clients. Many of you have experienced changes with us as our business evolved over the years. The first change came in 1999, when dad 22
invited me to enter the business with him. It took time before some clients felt comfortable dealing with “the son” instead of “Mr. Steve”. Next, in 2007 we opened an office in Florida. That necessitated me taking over more control of the Shreveport office so dad could focus on Florida. In July of last year we began to recruit and train agents and attorneys in Florida so that we could help even more families and in turn aid those agents and attorneys become more successful in their individual practices. As we all know, change rarely occurs without a fair amount of challenges which Dad and I had to face and overcome during the last couple years. Dad and I work great together but we (especially me) had to learn how to manage individually. We have spent countless hours teaching and coaching agents and attorneys as well as attending training classes ourselves to increase our expertise and abilities. www.savvyandsage.com
Meanwhile, clients still come in with needs and concerns that have to be dealt with. At last count we have over 2,200 active clients based out of the Shreveport office. Well, now we are proud to announce another change. Rainey Asset Management. Inc. is a new company that we have started in order to give fee based investment advice to our clients. We have long preached that if it is money that you do not want to lose or cannot afford to lose then it does not belong in the market. WE STILL BELIEVE THAT! However, we know that many of you, for one reason or another felt that an annuity did not meet your investment objective. Many have asked us in the past to handle their portfolios, but we had to tell them that we did not offer that service. Now we do. However, I did not want to be just like the other guys out there who claim to know the best stocks July/August 2010
or when the market was going up or down. My experience of looking over your statements the past ten years tells me that what “they” are doing for you, for the most part, does not work. Or, to paraphrase: STOCK PICKING, MARKET TIMING AND TRACK RECORD INVESTING DOES NOT WORK! That is why we are aligning ourselves with industry experts that rely on Nobel prize-winning academia, not guesswork, or whatever the corporate office is telling their brokers to put people in. If you are going to invest prudently, you have to have a global outlook and know what your investment objectives are. We have spent thousands of dollars and many hours of ongoing education, in addition to specialized training, to be able to offer a means for those of you who want to invest in the market to do so in such a way that it will give you purpose for your money, peace of mind and understanding of what you are investing in and why. We will be your coach and will provide to you ongoing investor education affording those of you who want to learn, the opportunity to do so. Do not forget however, that if you want absolute safety combined with the potential for growth, we need to go right back to discussing the proven benefits of the Fixed Indexed Annuities. This is a very exciting time for us. Rainey Asset Management, Inc. will be able to offer an expanded range of service that will compliment the services already provided by S.A.F.E. Planning, Inc. Look for more articles and information to come in the future as well as workshops geared toward our current clients called the Investor Coaching Series. Our website, www. raineyassetmanagement.com is in the works along with other social media such as Facebook and Twitter. July/August 2010
As you can see, we are adapting to change. Are you ready to take a hard look at your personal situation to evaluate whether or not you are positioned to weather the changes that are coming? Don’t be a dinosaur and refuse to adapt to change or your life savings could become extinct.
www.savvyandsage.com
Rainey Asset Management, Inc. is a Registered Investment Advisor with the State of Louisiana. Blake Rainey is president of Rainey Asset Management and S.A.F.E. Planning in Shreveport, LA. For more info, call (888) 836-2738.
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Puzzle Savvy
1. Dense black coal used for jewelry 4. Take as booty 7. Bone 10. _____ Gardner 11. Female sheep 12. _____ Claire, Wisconsin 13. Material Girl 15. Trinitrotoluene 16. Harass with petty annoyances 18. Spread here and there 21. Vilify 24. Acutely sensitive
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25. Large bound package 26. A sailor exempt from night watch 28. Passed, archaic 29. Pleasant odors 31. Deed 33. Vienna _____ 37. Payable on demand 38. Tax collector 39. Cable _____ 40. Unusual 41. Born of 42. A female gamete
1. A predicament 2. Adolf & _____ 3. A small boy 4. Resume 5. Has 6. Flogs 7. A refuge 8. Scottish form of ‘JOHN’ 9. On the contrary 14. Device to remove bottle caps 17. Ornament lavishly 18. Water _____
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19. Strew or spread for drying 20. Connected 22. Brew 23. _____ Light 27. Used on violin bows 28. Motive 30. Female horse 31. Fuss 32. Something that’s chewed 34. A quark 35. A choke or a joke 36 Energy unit
July/August 2010
Answers for both of these puzzles are located on page 40.
Dr. Gary Booker is pleased to announce a new research study testing an investigational medication for Alzheimer’s Disease. All research related procedures and study medication will be provided at no cost to those who qualify. Qualified participants must be: • Diagnosed with Mild to Moderate Alzheimer’s Disease • 50 to 90 years of age • In generally good health, or have stable medical conditions • Have a caregiver that has regular contact with the participant Patients who are currently taking Aricept or Exelon may be eligible to participate in the study and will be able to continue taking their current medication.
July/August 2010
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&
Food Savvy
BY holly clegg With the heat of summer brings the perfect grilling season, and I always look forward to the flavor the grill brings to meats and veggies. Everyone has their favorite grilling style but I think the secret is in the sauce. For a twist on barbecue sauce, try my Glazed Barbecue Chicken. And, for a quick time saver, I often turn to World Harbor sauces and marinades—from the Thai to Teriyaki, from meat to chicken, these delicious sauces can take you around the world with the flavors of barbecue. Impress guests at your cookout with the exciting and bold flavors from Eastern spices. Tex-Mex Corn on the Cob adds savory flavors and color to your plate. Grilled corn with fresh spices and you will have no need to add high fat condiments. When grilling out, make sure you chill out with an ice cold Strawberry Smoothie. Breakfast, noon, or night - this anytime refreshing beverage will help you cool down in the hot summer months. And add a little rum if that’s your preference!
TEX-MEX CORN ON THE COB Here’s a recipe that spices up fresh corn while adding color to your platter. With so much flavor, it’s ready to eat without extra condiments. Makes 6 servings 3 tablespoons butter, melted 1/2 teaspoon chili powder 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano leaves 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt Salt and pepper to taste 6 ears cooked fresh corn 1. In small bowl, mix together the butter, chili powder, cumin, oregano, garlic and salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle over a platter of cooked fresh corn. Nutrition information per serving: Calories 130, Protein (g) 3, Carbohydrate (g) 17, Fat (g) 7, Calories from Fat (%) 43, Saturated Fat (g) 1, Dietary Fiber (g) 3, Cholesterol (mg) 0, Sodium (mg) 122, Diabetic Exchanges: 1 starch, 1 fat 26
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GLAZED BARBECUE CHICKEN Update your barbecue chicken with this sauce featuring the exciting, bold flavor of hoisin sauce, available in the Chinese section at most supermarkets. Grilling is great but this recipe is also fabulous when broiled or baked in the oven. Makes 6 servings 4 teaspoons Dijon mustard 1/2 cup bottled chili sauce 1/2 cup hoisin sauce 1 teaspoon minced garlic 2 tablespoons honey 1/2 teaspoon dried crushed red pepper flakes Salt and pepper to taste 6 large chicken breasts, skin removed 1. In bowl, mix together mustard, chili sauce, hoisin sauce, garlic, honey, and red pepper flakes. Salt and pepper chicken, coat with sauce to marinate in refrigerator until ready to cook. 2. Grill chicken on medium high fire until cooked, 10 - 15 minutes on each side or broil in oven 15 minutes on each side or until done. Nutrition information per serving: Calories 196, Protein (g) 5, Carbohydrate (g) 35, Fat (g) 5, Calories from Fat (%) 21, Saturated Fat (g) 3, Dietary Fiber (g) 2, Cholesterol (mg) 14, Sodium (mg) 371, Diabetic Exchanges: 2.5 other carbohydrate, 1 fat
STRAWBERRY SMOOTHIE A fruit smoothie starts your day on a naturally sweet note and it’s a super way to begin with the five fruits a day. If the strawberries aren’t sweet, just add a little sugar to the mixture. Makes 3 cups 2 cups fresh strawberries, stemmed and halved 1 banana 1/2 cup orange juice 1 cup crushed ice 1. In food processor or blender, process strawberries, banana, orange juice and ice until smooth. Serve immediately. cont. on next page -->
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Terrific Tip: Put your banana in the freezer and it will keep the smoothie colder and you always have a banana. Frozen fruit may be used for smoothies.
--> cont. Strawberry Smoothie Nutrition information per serving: Calories 63, Protein (g) 0, Carbohydrate (g) 15, Fat (g) 0, Calories from Fat (%) 0, Saturated Fat (g) 0, Dietary Fiber (g) 2, Cholesterol (mg) 0, Sodium (mg) 1, Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fruit
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. You can check out Holly’s Web site at www.HollyClegg.com or her blog The Healthy Cooking Blog
HOT OFF THE PRESS Look for my new woman’s lifestyle cookbook coming out in August, Holly Clegg’s trim&TERRIFIC® Too Hot in the Kitchen: Secrets to Sizzle At Any Age with 200 Simple and Sassy Recipes!!!!
Kilpatrick’s Rose-Neath Funeral Homes, Crematorium and Cemeteries, Inc.
www.rose-neath.com 318-222-0348 1815 Marshall Street Shreveport, LA 71101 F u ne r a l Home s | P re -Ne e d | C e me t e r ie s | Flowe r Shop 28
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July/August 2010
Keeping Washington Politics Out of the Oil Spill Response BY sen. david vitter
I
t’s been two months since the oil spill, and as folks all along the Gulf Coast continue to deal with the personal, economic and environmental effects of this tragedy, I’m alarmed that some in Washington have seized upon this very real and ongoing crisis as an opportunity to further their political agendas. Instead of real solutions, in typical Washington fashion, the policies following this spill are not solutions at all, but setbacks for people all along the coast. Some of my Senate colleagues and this administration have used the spill as an excuse to place a moratorium on offshore drilling – a decision that will destroy tens of thousands of jobs in the Gulf as energy companies move their businesses away from the coast. This decision isn’t helping Louisianians – it’s shutting down huge parts of our economy and will only cost us more jobs and economic devastation. Liberals have also capitalized on this tragedy as an excuse to raid the Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund – money intended to pay for damages caused by an oil spill – to pay for new government spending instead. And recently, the Senate rejected an effort to keep the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency from moving forward with one of the most significant economy-destroying regulations in the history of this country – cap and tax. Such a move would make energy more expensive and jobs more scarce, putting a tremendous burden on American families who are already struggling to make ends meet. And it would particularly hurt Louisiana because our economy is so dependent on oil and gas production. Yet proponents reference the catastrophe off our coast as justification for it all. Louisianians deserve more than the use of the on-going tragedy in the Gulf to force job-killing policies on them. This is a time for the federal government to focus on solving the crisis at hand, and I will continue to fight against any efforts by my colleagues or this administration to use it as a mechanism to create policies that will shut down huge parts of our economy. Senator David Vitter is focused on putting Louisiana first as an independent and outspoken reformer, and on advancing mainstream conservative principles. He serves on the Committees on Armed Services; Banking, Housing and Urban Development; Commerce, Science and Transportation; Environment and Public Works; and Small Business and Entrepreneurship.
July/August 2010
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NEW YORK LIFE SUPPORTS PAXTON YOUTH BOXING WITH A $10,000 COMMUNITY IMPACT GRANT New York Life Insurance Company’s Community Impact Grant program, which began in 2008, awards nonprofit organizations that are supported by New York Life agents, field managers and employees and address the needs of the community. Over $500,000 was granted to 43 nonprofits through this program in 2009. Managing Partner, Joe Colvin and Council President, Tim C. FitzGerald of New York Life’s Shreveport General Office congratulate Coach Ray Paxton and Assistant Coach Donnie Jackson from Paxton Youth Boxing Club, Inc. on receiving a $10,000 Community Impact Grant to support the Paxton Youth Boxing. Mr. FitzGerald, through his long association with boxing and Paxton’s Boxing Club, was instrumental in arranging this grant.
Pictured L-R: Managing Partner of New York Life’s Shreveport General Office, Joe C. Colvin; Paxton Youth Boxing Club representatives, Coach Ray Paxton and Assistant Coach Donnie Jackson; and New York Life’s Council President, Tim C. FitzGerald.
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Jan/Feb 2010
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Acupuncture by Elaine Marze Stages of Senior Care A Step-by-Step Guide
M AG A ZI N E
Shreveport Symphony Returns
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July/August 2010
Savvy Events
What’s Happening in Shreveport fifth Annual Taste of Culture July 24, 6:00-9:00 pm
The Taste of Culture is scheduled for Saturday, July 24, 2010, at the Skybox at Independence Stadium. The Taste of Culture presents food delights from around the world from Korea, Japan, China, Philippines, Black American, Cajun, Creole, Mexico, Greece, Scotland, Iran and many more, as well as cultural entertainment. There will be a Silent Auction for participants to place bids for exciting gifts such as weekend stays at local casinos and chain hotels, gift certificates to elite restaurants in Shreveport and Bossier City. There will be wine tasting and beers offered from around the world to try. Tickets will be $35 per person. To order tickets: 424-1380.
Life Draw Sessions Thurs., July 1-29, 6:00-8:30 pm Life Drawing figure study for professionals and students alike is now available at artspace. The cost to attend is $15 per session, $10 for students with ID. Participants must provide their own supplies. Tables and easels will be on site for artists to use. Libations and snacks may be purchased from the cafe. Presented by artspace. For more info: 673-6535.
July/August 2010
Big Things Come in Small packages August 21, 2:00-3:00 pm
“He took ordinary things - like pencils, honed his craft and became successful. You don’t have to have money. Take your gift and have trust, faith and belief in yourself and you can be successful, just like he was.” –Pam Harris, Principal of Ruston Elementary School. Ruston artist Reggie McLeroy will share his wildlife artwork, his “Lil’ Daddy” comic strip wisdom, and his inspirational story in this Artist Talk. FREE. Presented by Reggie McLeroy. Norton Art Gallery.
The ACS Baron’s Ball August 21, 7:00 pm Casual event with a western flare including a fun-filled evening of gaming, prizes, food, drinks, auction items and goody bags for each guest. Fox Creek Farms, Shreveport. For more info: 219-1668.
2010 Collector’s Choice Wine Tasting and Auction August 27, 6:30 pm
les misérables: school edition July 22-August 1
The heartfelt epic, Les Misérables travels the depths of loss, longing, and invokes human emotions felt throughout the world. Les Misérables: School Edition, produced by Shreveport Little Theatre & Academy, is setting the stage for one of the most anticipated shows of the summer. The production is directed by SLT Resident Director Jared Watson, with musical staging and fight choreography by Laura Beeman, and musical direction by Adam Philley. Box Office: 300 Ockley Dr. in Shreveport. Open Mon.-Fri. from noon to 4 p.m. (318) 424-4439. All performances at Marjorie Lyons Playhouse. Dates: July 22, 23, 24, 30, & 31 @ 7:30pm; July 25 @ 2pm & August 1 @ 2 pm – interpreted in American Sign Language. Tickets: $22.00 – ask about our group rates; $10.00 – Student Rush Tickets.
Louisiana Association for the Blind is holding its Collector’s Choice Wine Tasting and Auction on August 27. Proceeds made from the event go towards improving, supporting and creating new programs to meet LAB’s mission: Improving the quality of life for the blind through training, services, and employment. The Wine Auction will be held at Sam’s Town Casino and Hotel. For sponsorship, donation or tickets: Heather Stephens at 635-6471 or hstephens@lablind.com. www.savvyandsage.com
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Savvy Travel
Summer Fun In The Southern Sun
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Panama City Beach
Florida BY ELAINE MARZE
F
Phaedra swims with Miah, the dolphin, at Gulf World July/August 2010
irst of all, let me say that the beaches and water were oil-free while we were in Panama City, Florida the last week in May! The sands were white and the water so clear that we could see sting rays swimming in the Gulf from the balcony of our fifth floor Splash Resort condo. Also known as the Emerald Coast, this part of Northwest Florida was our destination of choice for a vacation with our daughter, son-in-law and three young grandchildren because of the wide variety of attractions available and the beautiful beaches. It is more economical to rent a room or condo that is not on the beach, but miles of white sandy beaches are accessible to the public from numerous walk-ways off Front Beach Road. Land shuttles and shuttle-boats are continuously heading to and from popular Shell Island and other places of interest. RVer’s will be happy to know there are numerous campgrounds available in the Panama Beach area including St. Andrews State Park which can accommodate rigs up to 40 feet. The 1,260 acre state park is located on a peninsula with over 1.5 miles of beach on the Gulf of Mexico and Grand Lagoon. My husband and I chose to take an airboat tour on the Swamp Thang where Captain Debi Gregg combined the thrill of an airboat ride with some ecological education. As regular readers are aware, my husband does not feel comfortable riding in anything driven by a woman, but Captain Debi, who holds a USCG 50 ton Master License, got several thumbs up from him during our ride. On the tour, we were shown an osprey nest and witnessed an osprey diving for fish in addition to learning about their nesting habits. We also saw an eagle’s nest, made an island stop to catch (and release) crabs, and we tracked some locally well-known alligators into their swampy habitat. For passengers who were not fast enough to catch a glimpse of the alligators, back at the Swamp Thang boat dock, passengers took turns holding and having their photos taken with a live baby gator provided by Debi and crew. My husband was familiar with airboats from his days 33
in the rivers of Vietnam, but they were new to me, and after having ridden in one – I really want one of those “thangs”. Our young deck hand, Casey, was full of jokes and information as we skimmed, spun, and slid across inches or feet of water looking for wild critters. Captain Debi’s husband, Richard Gregg, retired as an airline pilot after 35 years and until 2009 he did Seaplane Tours. Now he and Debi captain their two airboats. They are open year round, so call 850-2341532 for reservations. Sometimes vacationers buy tickets for attractions that do not meet their expectations, but the two hour pirate cruise we took with the grandkids surpassed our expectations. Sea Dragon tickets and boarding is on Grand Lagoon at The Lighthouse Marina behind the Boatyard Restaurant. Captain “Fearless” Phil takes his vessel out into open waters
near Shell Island. Captain Phil knows just where the dolphins hang out. It was exciting watching them leaping in and out of the waters around our ship, but the real action came in the organized water gun shootouts, sword fights, limbo contest and other activities led and monitored by the captain and his able pirate crew. While the adults sat back and relaxed, the kids found a buried-beneath-thebriny-sea treasure chest that they hauled in through their combined efforts and then split the spoils. Space does not allow me to describe all the fun activities aboard the Sea Dragon, but Captain Hook never had it so good! If you have young ones with you, be sure to schedule time on the pirate cruise. While in Florida, it is wise NOT to feed the wild dolphins unless you do not mind paying the $20,000.00 fine (at least that was the amount quoted to us). And, be aware that many of the “Swim with the dolphin tours” actually should say, “Swim in the same water as the dolphins.” But, to have an up
close and personal encounter with these fascinating sea creatures, I recommend the dolphin swim at Gulf World Marine Park that my daughter, Phaedra, and I took. Not only did we get to interact alone and together with a dolphin named, Miah, we each took a ride across deep water holding onto Miah’s fin, an amazing experience. Then during a separate dolphin show, granddaughters Kinsley and Makenna, were chosen to “help” the trainer with the performing dolphins. Photo opportunities were available for a small fee where participants shook “hands/ fins” with dolphins. Gulf World also has shows featuring trained birds and sea lions that are as good as any I’ve ever seen. Children and adults were thrilled by the feats these creatures performed, and there is also a reptile show that most of our group enjoyed. Personally, the sight of snakes wrapped around a person’s body tends to give me the willies, but other people loved the show so do not skip the reptile show at Gulf World until you try it. There are wonderful restaurants in Panama City specializing in Southern, Cajun and Creole cuisine, and seafood fresh from the Gulf of Mexico is notaKinsley shakes hands / fins with a gulf world dolphin. bly delicious. The crab legs served at Bishops Family Buffet were well worth the price. We also tried Dirty Dick’s Crab House for oysters, crab claws and cheesy Captain Phil & the grandkids crab dip. Sharky’s is right on the beach and has live music so it draws a lot of tourists. They even have a pirate-ship playground for the kids. We noticed that the restaurants on Front Beach Road seem pricier than those located inland so decide if the atmosphere is worth the cost to you. Captain Debbie lets Elaine’s husband sit in the driver’s seat of ‘Swamp Thang’ Another good seafood restaurant
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I can recommend is The Back Porch, located right at the entrance of Pier Park shopping district, but our favorite place to dine was Bayou Bills Crab House at 23100 Front Beach Road. Not everybody can go to Florida before the summer rush begins, but Phaedra took the girls out of school so we could go the last week in May while the weather was pleasant and the nighttime ocean breezes were cool. To our surprise, May is discount month in Panama City Beach, and many of the businesses participate so keep it in mind for next year. One example of the May discount was at Gulf World where the standard $150 for the Dolphin Swim was reduced to $120. Our grandkids had a blast crabbing and collecting shells along the white sugary-sand beaches, and Grandma (me) found out I can still move pretty fast when motivated by a spilled bucket of crawly crabs. In spite of not having a beach-babe body, we older girls and guys can relax to the sound of the surf. The continuous adventure involved in marine life viewed by a few grandchildren certainly keeps things interesting. There are many activities available in Panama City Beach such as scuba diving, fishing, jet skiing, snorkeling, kite boarding and para sailing, just to name a few. The locals we met were friendly and welcoming, doing their part to make tourists want to return to this part of the Florida Emerald Coast. On the return trip we came through Alexandria and Pineville, Louisiana and stopped for supper at a restaurant recommended to us by one of my brothers. We had to get off I-10 to find Stalnaker’s, but it was well worth the effort. The kids were charged by age. Four-year-old Colton’s dinner was $4.00; five-year18July/Aug 2010
old Makenna’s was $5.00. The boiled shrimp were plump and seasoned just right, and our waitress, Cheri Jordon, went above and beyond “duty” to bring each of the kids a bowl of peeled shrimp to save them some work. Then, during the excellent meal, Cheri brought out bowls of fried oysters for us to try. The seating capacity of the restaurant can
easily accommodate a tour bus load so when senior tour groups are driving through that area, make plans to stop at Stalnaker’s. Call 318-6401361 for hours and directions. Elaine Marze is a freelance writer who also works in public relations and advertising. She can be reached at elmarz7@yahoo.com.
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Windrush Grill COME HOME TO PROVENANCE, where you’ll find a charming Looking for a place to satisfy that grill craving? and inviting Traditional Neighborhood Development reminiscent of yesterday’s small town community. Families of all ages can choose from a wide array of custom home styles and sizes from town homes and bungalows to waterfront cottages. Find the perfect place that feels like home.
Bring your appetite to Windrush Grill, we have what you are looking for. Whether you’re needing a grilled chicken sandwich or an old fashioned hamburger, stop in today and let us satisfy your craving.
Sunday - Thursday 10:00 am to 10:00 pm Friday and Saturday 10:00 am to 11:00 pm.
HOME SITES: $34,000 - $103,000 HOMES FROM: $185,000 to $1,000,000+
Call (318) 683-0399 for more information. www.yourprovenance.com HOMES OPEN FOR TOUR SUNDAYS 2-5 pm
Now Open at Provenance: • • • •
Superior Dry Cleaning Edward Jones Investments Pie Works Red River Bank & US Postal Unit
Chestnut Park Townhomes Tucked just behind Windrush Village in Provenance, a newly designed group of townhomes is emerging with wonderful views of Windrush Lake and the privacy of an interior park.
Less than a mile east of the I-49 Interchange at Southern Loop in Shreveport www.savvyandsage.com
April/May 201035
Savvy Gardener
Invite butterflies into your landscape BY dan gill
LSU Ag Center Horticulturist
N
ot satisfied with the occasional, chance appearance of butterflies, many gardeners are creating butterfly gardens with plants specially chosen to invite them into the landscape. A large number of beautiful native butterflies will visit gardens that provide for their needs. Louisiana is on the migration route of the monarch butterfly. This butterfly winters in Mexico and crosses the Gulf of Mexico to migrate to the northern United States in spring and then travels south back down to Mexico in the fall. So, many Louisiana gardeners plant milkweed in their gardens to provide for the monarch’s needs. To plant a butterfly garden properly, you need a general understanding of the life cycle of butterflies. They pass through four distinct
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stages – egg, caterpillar (larvae), chrysalis (pupae) and butterfly (adult). Although they may look very different at each stage, it is important to understand that a caterpillar is not a different creature, it is simply a baby butterfly or moth. Although some of the butterfly caterpillars, such as gulf fritillary larva, appear to be heavily armed with spines, none is able to sting. Moths are closely related to butterflies and also have a caterpillar stage. Some moth caterpillars do sting. Butterfly caterpillars feed voraciously on plant leaves. Each type of butterfly caterpillar will feed specifically only on certain plants, and the adult female butterfly will lay her eggs only on those plants that will properly www.savvyandsage.com
nourish her offspring. Monarch butterfly caterpillars only feed on milkweed plants, for instance. Gulf fritillary caterpillars prefer species of passion vines; the parsley worm, which grows up to be the Eastern black swallowtail, feeds on parsley, dill and fennel; sulfur butterflies lay their eggs on cassias; and the preferred food of long-tailed skipper larva is bean leaves. The orange dog caterpillar, which feeds on citrus trees and disguises itself to look like bird droppings, grows up to be the spectacular giant swallowtail butterfly. Gardeners plant these plants, called larval food plants, in the hopes that butterflies will lay eggs on them and that they will July/August 2010
be consumed by caterpillars. This is one of the few situations where a gardener actually hopes a plant will be eaten by caterpillars. Needless to say, the use of pesticides is not permitted in areas dedicated to butterfly gardens. Remember that caterpillars are picky about the plants they will feed on, and they’ll generally only feed on the larval food plants you provide for them. You do not need to be concerned that they will attack and damage other types of plants in your landscape. Adult butterflies feed primarily on nectar from flowers. Many commonly grown garden flowers are attractive to butterflies, and the more kinds of flowers you include in your garden, the better chances you’ll have to attract butterflies. Certain nectar plants, however, seem to be especially irresistible to butterflies. Some of the best are butterfly weed, coneflower, wild ageratum, butterfly bush, lantana, pentas and salvias. Don’t be disappointed if at first you don’t see butterflies flocking to your yard in droves. Remember, a butterfly garden is an invitation, not a command performance. The more plants you put in, and the longer you stick with it, the m o r e likely you are to see butterflies. After July/August 2010
a while, spotting a butterfly will be more common. And the first time you find caterpillars on your milkweed, parsley or passion vine, the happy excitement makes it all worthwhile. In addition to plants, other features are helpful in attracting these delights of color and movement. Butterflies cannot drink from open water, so a shallow pan filled with pebbles can be placed in the garden to be filled with water whenever you irrigate or it rains. Some butterflies like the juice from fruit, so rather than throwing away leftovers of fermenting fruit or the peelings, place them in the garden for a few days. A piece of watermelon or rind is a tasty treat. Basking spots are also important. As insects, butterflies are cold-blooded and depend on the warmth of the sun for energy to maintain proper body temperature. Locate your butterfly garden in an area that receives the morning sun and warms up early. This is especially important in spring and fall when nights are cool. Most larval and nectar food plants grow best in sites that get six to eight hours of direct sun a day. Butterfly gardens strive to attract, welcome and nurture these fascinating and lovely insects that add so much to the pleasures of gardening. With their abundance of bright, colorful flowers, these gardens also can www.savvyandsage.com
contribute to the beauty of the overall landscape. Don’t forget to include children in the process. They are delighted by the changing stages in a butterfly’s life cycle, and it’s a great way for them to learn more about nature. Provided by the LSU Ag Center Research and Extension
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Savvy Sports
Basic Coaching for the
Golfing Beginner BY NOEL MALCOMBE
G
olf continues to be one of the most popular sports in the world and it seems that almost everyone you know plays the game. It can be an especially cathartic pass time for retirees. But what do you do if you’re a beginner and your golf lessons aren’t yet paying off? The thing that beginner golfers need to remember is that golf is a game of patience and practice that is based on technique. At possibly no other place is the adage ‘practice makes you perfect’ more applicable than in the game of golf. The more you practice the technique the more success you’ll have on the golf course. The most important basic that regulates almost the entire game of golf is ‘the swing’. This is to be mastered if you wish for success. Unless you have the swing right, you will most likely fail at the rest of the parts of a golf game. The first step in learning your swing is getting the grip down to a science. Ask your instructor to show you how to place your hands in the right gripping position. If you don’t do this correctly you won’t be set up well to hit the ball. If you pay attention to other golfers, you will notice that everyone moves a bit differently through the swing. The grip is the part that stays uniform. The grip and swing are obviously important to the outcome of your golf game, and so is the stance. Begin by using the correct stance when you use your driver. In time you will also learn a different stance to go with each club in your golf bag. When you’re practicing you need to make sure that your stance is as wide as your shoulders at all times when using a driver. The only time your stance will be a little shorter is when the drive that you’re attempting is a narrow shot of 60 yards or less. One of the important things that you need to concentrate on when you’re going to swing is that you have the target and aim correctly 38
aligned. With time and practice you’ll be able to get a good feel for your golf swing and stance and how to use them together. Having perfected the swing with the driver, as you move down the list of clubs, the position of the ball is also moved back slightly. When you are using a driver, the requirement is to hit the ball into an upward motion rather than a lower motion. Your posture plays another important part in perfecting your golf game. The right posture is important in achieving the correct stance. If you fail to distribute your weight correctly you are liable to end up with a weak swing. Remember when you’re starting to play golf that if you give yourself the right foundation and practice your technique, you won’t end up quitting forever in frustration. When it comes to your weight distribution you’ll need to get a real feel for what you need for your game. When you execute a good golf swing you’ll find that your body will move back from your rear foot in the back motion while at the same time your front foot will hold the weight on the forward motion. Each club needs a different pattern and time for the weight shift to take place. This is mastered with practice and time. Mastering the game of golf takes time and practice. Give yourself lots of time to perfect one part of your game at a time rather than tackling all the techniques at once. Don’t forget to ask for advice from other players that are having the kinds of games that you want to have. Noel Malcombe runs a very interesting website at RB Golf, it’s one of the webs most up-to-date Golf sites, while you’re there sign up for the free newsletter. If you want to read more Golf articles go to: http://www.rbgolf.com/ articles
www.savvyandsage.com
July/August 2010
Providing Stay-at-Home Solutions
Acorn Superglide 120 Stairlift Why compromise your lifestyle and freedom because of difficulty getting up and down the stairs? A stairlift could be your key to retaining independence. The Acorn Superglide 120 has evolved over time to make it one of the most technologically advanced stairlifts in the world. $
3,499
T ASK ABOU PRODUCT RENTALS
July/August 2010
Leg Lifter Designed to provide independence for people who are unable to lift their legs from a bedside sitting position onto the bed. Lightweight and compact for easy portability and transporting. Slimline design fits in confined spaces. Folds flat against the bedside when not in operation. Quiet, gentle and smooth operation. $
1,999
Archimedes Bathtub Lift A stylish and lightweight actuator driven bathtub lift that provides maximum support and comfort for the user. The Archimedes is attractive, light and portable. It separates into three parts (the heaviest of which is 11.5 lbs.). It has a high backrest and longer seat for increased support. $
1,195
Ramps Make your life accessible with a variety of styles to meet your needs and home design. Affordable ramp rental options are available when purchasing a permanent ramp is not optimal for your home or location. This is often the best option for short-term disabilities, rental properties, or stays with family members.
Prices Vary
Call us today for a free, professional in-home evaluation!
(318) 564-2829 www.savvyandsage.com
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Go ahead, look at the answers! Who are we going to tell? Here are the answers to the puzzles on pages 24 and 25.
速
520 Spring Street, Suite 202, Shreveport, LA 71101
JA10-SB
40 18
www.savvyandsage.com
July/August April/May 2010
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SCB.107.09
On occasion just need a break. being lonely & seriously ill. “You would have to Volunteer training look far and wide to find will give you the anything that will fill your heart and soul with more joy, more satisfaction, to work with patients and more peace.” and their families. –Jean Bailey, Volunteer Interested? Call Terri Catlett Hospice of Shreveport/Bossier 318-865-7177 • 1-800-824-4672 • www.hospicesb.com