The Best of Times December 2010

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Shreveport, LA 71103Permit No. 6

Friends and Family Album

“Celebrating Age and Maturity”

December 2010

2 December 2010 TheBestOfTimesNewS.com

Celebrate with Us!Join us for the Tour of Trees at the beautiful Tower at The Oaks. Choose Saturday or Sunday, 1 p.m. or 3 p.m., on one of these dates:

November 27 or 28December 4, 5, 11, 12, 18 or 19

January 1 or 2

Reserve Your Tour Time (318) 212-8225or request your tour time at oaksofla.com

With trees sparkling, fireplaces glowing and garlands adorning balconies, the Tower celebrates its first holiday season in grand style. Residents and staff invite you to enjoy a walking tour through this holiday wonderland.

Tower at The Oaks A Premier Healthy Lifestyle Community

600 East Flournoy Lucas Road ■ Shreveport ■ oaksofla.com ■ (318) 212-OAKS(6257)

December 2010 3 The Best Of Times


A monthly publication from TBT Multimedia, LLC

P.O. Box 19510Shreveport, LA 71149

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PublisherGary L. Calligas

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EditorTina Miaoulis Calligas

[email protected]

Account ExecutivesWilliam B. Combs

Philip MaxfieldStephanie Poole

Design & LayoutJessica Rinaudo

Katherine M. Branch

WebmasterJason P. Calligas

ContributorsJason Alderman, Lee Aronson,

Bud Bradley, Judge Jeff Cox, Joe Gilsoul, Andrea Gross, Mirabai Holland,

Terri Schlichenmeyer, Dr. Marion Somers

Council of AdvisorsTerri Brock, Senator Sherry Smith-Cheek,

Clara Farley, Dora Miller, Raymon Owens, Mary Anne Rankin,

and Mary Alice Rountree

THE FINE PRINT: All original content published in THE BEST OF TIMES copyright © 2010 by TBT Multimedia, LLC, all rights reserved. Replication, in whole or in part by any means is prohibited without written permission from the publisher. Opinions expressed are the sole responsibility of the contributor and do not necessar-ily reflect those of the publication, TBT Mulitmedia, its

publishers or staff. Always consult properly degreed and licensed professionals when dealing with all matters

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December 2010 • Vol. 19, No. 12Founded in 1993 as Senior Scene NewsISSN Library of Congress #1551-4366

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Where in the Issue is ?TINAEditor Tina Calligas appears in one of the photos in our

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DEC. 4: “Medicare Health Plans” - Billy Justice and Leslie Jones with Vantage Health Plan, Inc. www.vhpla.com

DEC. 11: “Memory Evaluation and Improvement” - Donesa Walker and Marie Romano Stroup with LearningRx

www.learningrx.com/shreveport

DEC. 18: “Who Gets Grandma’s Yellow Pie Plate” - Terry L. Foster with LSU Ag Center. www.lsuagcenter.com

DEC. 25: “The Toys of Christmas Past”

JAn. 1: “New Year’s Resolutions” - Betsy Williams with The Center for Families. www.thecenterforfamilies.com

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It's that time of the year. No, I'm not talking about the holidays. It's time for our annual photo feature. And what a fun album it turned out to be!! Covering seventeen pages, it's our biggest, happiest photo feature ever! Thanks to all who took the time to share their photos.

And speaking of fun - what could be better than an end-of-the year contest? Although you won't find my name listed in any of the captions, my photo is lurking about in our Friends and Fam-ily album. If you find it, you could win a prize package valued at $400! For details on how you can win, see

November was also the time for our annual convention. As noted on page 6, The Best of Times won another slew of awards. Gary and I are very grateful and honored, but the accolades are really a reflection of the hard work and dedication of our graphic designers, contributors and writers. It's their talent and commit-ment to excellence that brings this publication so much success. KUDOS!

As we prepare to celebrate this blessed time of year, I would also like to express my deepest gratitude to YOU, our loyal readers and advertisers. My prayer is that your heart and home be filled with joy and gladness this holiday season and throughout the new year. Tina


Shreveport/Bossier’s Premier Senior Publication

Celebrating Age and Maturity...and Publication Excellence

NatioNally RecogNized

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Senior IssuesLee Aronson’s “Laws of the Land” column

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Urgent Senior IssuesAmanda Newton’s feature article “Finding Love (& Marriage) After 50”

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Web Self Promotion

Website General Excellence

Table of Contents design Briefs/Shorts editorial content Column ReviewLizzie Lyles restaurant reviews

Feature Layout

— FiRst Place —

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NaMPa (NoRth aMeRicaN MatuRe PublisheRs associatioN) awarded The Best of Times twelve (12) national awards at their annual convention. Member publications are independently judged by the prestigious University of Missouri School of Journalism which is generally considered one of the top journalism schools in the world.


ecemberc o n t e n t s

Briefly 8 In the News10 STAT! Medical News

Special reportS12 Medicare Prescription

Drug Coverage

14 Holiday Ho-Hum by Dr. Marion Somers

advice

16 Money Matters by Jason Alderman Cut Your Taxes 17 Safe Shopping Tips by Bud Bradley

18 Laws of the Land by Lee Aronson Insurance Blues20 From the Bench by Judge Jeff Cox Custody Disputes: Parents

vs Nonparents

22 Moving Free with Mirabai

by Mirabai Holland Holiday

Moderation

columnS42 Traveltizers by Andrea Gross Christmas in America’s

Castles44 The Bookworm by Terri Schlichenmeyer “Amos Walker: The

Complete Story Collection”

in every iSSue45 Answers from the

Experts46 What’s Cooking? A Merry Maple Holiday

Menu48 Get Up & Go! A December calendar

full of place to go and things to see

50 Our Famous Puzzle Page Crossword, Sudoko,

Word Search 52 Gold Pages

ON THE COVER:Left: "Mimi" Anne Reed Miller with Jordis Anne Reed

Top right: Rob Franks & Scott Kennedy at Merion Cricket Club's Invitational Croquet Tournament, Philadelphia, PA, Sept., 2010 which set a record as the world's largest croquet tournament for the Guinness Book of World Records.

Bottom right: Kathy Booth (2nd from right) with daughters Shannon Furr, Martha Claire Booth, and Jessica Rinaudo

Dfeature

25 - 41 Friends, Family and Fun Photo Album


in the NEWS

New Coverage Medicare Rule to Take Effect in 2011

The Centers for Medicare & Med-icaid Services (CMS) recently released a final rule that implements portions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) that provide greater access to Medicare’s coverage of preventive services.

As a result of the new health reform law, beginning on January 1, 2011, people with Original Medicare will no longer have to pay a copay, coinsurance or deductible to receive preventive ser-vices that are recommended with a grade A or B by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. The law does not require Medicare private health plans (also known as Medicare Advantage plans) to cover these services without cost-sharing, but many plans already do so.

In addition, the rule implements an annual wellness visit, a new benefit under Medicare, for which Medicare consumers will pay nothing out of pocket. During this yearly visit, doctors can update a patient’s care plan, screen for cognitive impairments and measure height, weight and blood pressure, as well as other needed measurements based on the person’s family and medical history.

Examples of Medicare-covered preventive services that will no longer require people to pay out of pocket include: screening mammographies, tests such as colonoscopies and barium enemas to screen for colorectal cancer, and Pap tests to screen for cervical cancer.

A more detailed list of preventive services that will no longer require out-of-pocket payments is available at http://www.medicarerights.org/pdf/Medicare-Covered-Preventive-Services-2011.pdf.

The final rule also addresses payment rates to providers, and includes a cut of approximately 25 percent to Medicare Part B physician payments that are required under the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) formula, which was enacted as part of the Balanced Budget Act of 1997.

by Joe GilsoulIf you are unable to obtain health

care insurance because of a pre-existing condition, you may be in luck. Under the Affordable Health Care Act, as of July 1, 2010, outstanding coverage is avail-able through the Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan (PCIP) if you meet the following conditions: • You must be a citizen or national of

the United States or lawfully present in the United States. • You must have been uninsured for at

least the last six months before you apply. (Medicaid and Medicare count, so if you are on either you do not qualify. Some people now on Medicaid may go so far as to withdraw from Medicaid and apply for PCIP coverage six months later.) • You must have been denied coverage

due to a pre-existing condition. Denial need not be total but may be for only one pre-existing condition.

There are no limitations on your in-come or assets. Even a wealthy person who has been denied coverage may qualify.

This insurance is basically the same plan offered to all federal employees, including members of Congress. Unlike Medicaid, which relatively few physicians accept, and Medicare, which more and more physicians are refusing to accept, PCIP is administered by GEHA, a private nonprofit company that administers the federal employee's plan. It is accepted by nearly all physicians and other health care providers, and covers a very broad range of benefits.

Coverage starts within two to six weeks of your application. So, if you need a heart procedure that will cost $50,000 but you

The Uninsurable Can Now Purchase Outstanding Health Coverage

are not able to pay for it, if you qualify for PCIP you may schedule the procedure almost immediately.

The monthly rates depend on your age and are not affected by your medical condition: • Ages 0 to 34: $317 • Ages 35 to 44: $380 • Ages 45 to 54: $485 • Ages 55+: $675 The deductible for covered benefits

is $2,500. After that, you pay $25 for doctor visits, $4 to $30 for most prescrip-tion drugs and 20% as a co-pay. Routine health care is free and includes screenings, check-ups, and patient counseling to prevent illnesses, disease, or other health problems. Maximum out-of-pocket costs for the deductible and copays cannot exceed $5,950 per year, presuming you stay within your insurer's network.

Louisiana has two other high risk health insurance options, but seldom will either be preferable to PCIP.

For additional information about this remarkable benefit, see www.healthcare.gov, and for the other Louisiana high risk plans see www.lahealthplan.org.Joe Gilsoul is an attorney with Weems, Schimpf, Gilsoul, Haines, Landry & Car-mouche (A Professional Law Corporation)

Donate Unused PrescriptionsIf you have unused or discontinued prescriptions (non-narcotics only),

the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVdP) collects them and delivers them to the Northwest LA Interfaith Pharmacy in Shreveport. NLIP is a FREE pharmacy that provides medications at no charge to those

who cannot afford them, especially the elderly. Diabetic and heart medications are in great demand. If

you have any such medications, you may call Anna at St. Elizabeth Anne Seton Catholic Church (798-1887) to arrange a pick-up.


STAT!

Walking May Protect Your Memory Down the Road

A new study published in the online is-sue of Neurology® suggests that walking at least six miles per week may protect brain size and in turn, preserve memory in old age. The researchers found that those who walked the most cut their risk of develop-ing memory problems in half.

An Aspirin a Day May Keep Prostate Cancer at Bay

Men with prostate cancer who take antico-agulants like aspirin in addition to radiation therapy or surgery may be able to cut their risk of dying of the disease by more than half, ac-cording to a large study presented at the 52nd Annual Meeting of the American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO). The study in-volved men with localized cancer whose disease had not spread beyond the prostate gland.

Not Just for the Holidays

Early Menopause Linked to Future Cardiovascular Disease

Women who experience early menopause appear to have more than twice the risk of having a heart attack, stroke or other cardiovascular disease event later in life than do women who do not go through early menopause, a new study indicates. Early menopause was defined as going through menopause before age 46, either naturally or surgically through removal of both ovaries. Researchers at the University of Alabama in Birmingham noted that it is important for women to know that early menopause is a potential risk factor for cardiovascular disease so they can be mindful of modifiable risk factors, such as high cholesterol and blood pressure, by exercising and following a healthy diet. Cardiovascular disease is the number one killer of American women.

Zap CataractsUsing a laser to take apart a lens cloud-

ed by cataracts can make the tricky eye surgery easier and more precise, doctors recently reported. The surgeons employed a laser to break up the damaged lenses before taking them out and replacing them with an artificial lens. The procedure appears to increase safety, improve preci-sion and reproducibility, and standardizes the procedure. Surgeons at Stanford University in California reported that the new approach could make the procedure less dependent on surgical skill and allow for greater consistency. Cataracts form when the eye's lens is damaged, often aging or long-term exposure to sunlight, clouding vision. The lens is a small bag of fluid that helps focus light in the eye. The U.S. National Eye Institute says more than 1.5 million such procedures are done every year in the United States, making it the most common surgical procedure.

Cranberries aren’t just for the holidays. That’s because cranberries contain benzoic acid, which has been shown to inhibit the growth of lung cancer, colon cancer, and

some forms of leukemia. Buy bags of cranberries now, while they are in season

and at their nutritional peak, and pop them in the freezer for later. (RealAge.com)

Older Adults Watch More TV, But Enjoy It Less

Older adults watch two to three times more tele-vision than younger people, but they derive much less pleasure and stress relief from it, according to a study in the American Journal of Preventive Medi-cine. The findings came from a sample of nearly 4,000 Americans ages 15 to 98. Among reading, socializing, hobbies and other choices, television was the most popular activity in all age groups. In general, older adults tend to report feeling as happy and satisfied with life compared to younger and middle-age groups, but they watch more TV and enjoy it less than younger people do. Other stud-ies have shown that too much TV-viewing leads to increased risk for obesity diabetes, loss of bone density and dementia.


Your guide to what's new

and what to do for 2011

Family Features

Whether you’re approaching age 65 or already enrolled in Medicare, the annual enroll-

ment period for 2011’s Medicare plans is an important time. When it comes to prescrip-tion coverage, seniors are seeing some of the biggest changes since the Medi care prescrip-tion benefit became avail able in 2006.

The changes - from having fewer options to premium increases to new dis counts on brand-name drugs — are enough to make anyone’s head spin. But, seniors who don’t take the time to research their options and choose the plan that best suits their needs could leave hundreds of dollars in annual premium savings on the table.

In fact, according to a recent study by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, only about 10% of participants change plans annually. Staying put and not investi gating your options, however, could impact your overall costs. But how do you know if you have the best plan already or if you should consider a different plan? Luckily, there are a few tools that can help with the decision-making process. But first, let’s start with the basics and what is changing this year.

Access to private plansBeneficiaries have access to the Medicare

drug benefit, known as Part D, through private plans approved by the federal government, either through stand-alone prescription drug plans (PDPs) or Medi-care Advantage prescription drug plans (MA-PDs). According to a Kaiser Family Foundation study in Oct. 2010, of those who purchase Part D coverage, 38% opt for stand-alone plans. Twenty-four percent are enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans.

Plan options in 2011While shopping around could save many

seniors money, some beneficiaries have no option other than to find a new plan for next year. For 2011, the federal govern ment directed insurers to eliminate dupli ca tive Part D prescription drug plans and plans

with low enrollment. That means a third fewer prescription drug plans will be offered nationwide next year compared to 2010, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation, and many of the remaining options may come with higher premiums.

And with the federal government chang ing the way it reimburses health plans through Medicare Advantage, some insurers have quit offering their Medicare Advantage plans for next year. If your plan is no longer being offered, you may need to find alternative coverage.

Enrollment periodsBeneficiaries have a six-week annual enroll ment period — from Nov. 15 to Dec. 31 — to

pick a Part D plan for 2011. For Medicare Advantage enrollees, it is especially important to pick the right plan during that period. Unlike previous years, people enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans can no longer switch to other Medicare Advantage plans during January, February and March. However, while this “open enrollment period” will not be avail able in 2011, after Jan. 1, enrollees can still leave their Advantage plan and go back to original Medicare.

“Doughnut hole” reliefHere’s some good news: there is a new 50 percent discount on the formulary’s brand-

name drugs for those who land in the program’s coverage gap, also called the “doughnut

Getty Images


hole.” In addition, plans will pay 7 percent of the cost for generic drugs in the gap. This applies to drugs that are on the plan’s formulary. If they aren’t on the formulary there may be no discount, so make sure you check.

How to compare plansEach plan has different features and each

person has unique prescrip tion needs so it’s important to find the plan that is best for you. Here are some things to keep in mind:•Cost and coverage: Plans vary in the

coverage offered and how much they cost. Consider the cost of premiums and whether it includes prescription coverage while in the gap.• Pharmacy: Some plans restrict where

you can use your drug plan. Deter mine whether your desired pharmacy is included in the plan you choose. For example, new this year are some plans whose monthly pre-miums fall well below the average price for Part D policies. However, these lower-cost plans come with some restrictions. The co-pays and coinsurance for prescription drugs are lowest when using preferred pharmacies; they increase for outside pharmacies.• Formulary changes: Insurers may

change drug formularies each year. Make sure you enroll in a Part D plan that covers your medications.•Other limitations: In some cases,

a plan may limit the circum stances un-der which a drug is covered. Certain medications may only be cov ered after prior authorization, after you’ve tried other drugs through a process called step therapy, or in certain doses and quantities.

Comparing plans can be overwhelming, but there are easy-to-use online tools such as www.PlanPrescriber.com that can take you through a four step process to narrow down your options and identify the most cost-effective plan. If you have a low income and struggle to pay for your prescription drugs, you may qualify for the Extra Help/Low-Income Subsidy (LIS) program. For more information, go to http://www.PlanPre-scriber.com/medicare-part-d/extra-help/ or https://secure.ssa.gov/apps6z/i1020/main.html. For additional resources on Medicare, go to Medicare.gov.

Though it may seem overwhelming at first, taking the time to research your best option for Medicare prescription drug coverage could really pay off.

How to maximize your cost savingsin 2011, there are lots of changes on tap when it comes to medicare advantage and prescription drug plans. But open enrollment is a great time to review your coverage. these DOs and DON’ts can help ensure you are maximizing your cost savings.

DO check to ensure your medications are still covered. Check your prescription drug plan each year because insurers may change which medications are covered. you can enter your medications on websites like www.PlanPrescriber.com to see which drugs are covered and compare the projected costs with other plans.

DO pay attention to the drug limita tions in your plan. even if your medication is on the formulary, a plan may limit the circumstances under which a drug is covered. they may only be covered after prior authorization, after you’ve tried other drugs through a process called step therapy, or in certain doses and quantities.

DO consider all your options. medicare supplemental plans, or medigap, have their own sixmonth open enrollment period, beginning the day you turn 65 and are enrolled in medicare Part B. the enrollment period for medicare advantage and standalone prescription drug plans is Nov. 15 to Dec. 31 2010.

DON’T go on auto-pilot. many plans change cost and drug coverage annually. What worked last year for you could cost you more money this year in terms of higher prescription drug costs and other outofpocket expenses.

DON’T be afraid to ask for help from qualified professionals. you can get help through your state Health insurance assistance Program (sHiP), PlanPrescriber, licensed health insurance agents who are certified to sell medicare, family members or by calling 1800medicare.

DON’T think that stable premiums = stable coverage. Just because your premiums haven’t gone up doesn’t mean that you are getting the same plan for the same price next year.


The holiday season is a time of happiness and excitement. We start to

feel it - as early as November - as homes are decorated with lights, stores are overrun with shoppers and radio stations are playing festive music. Of course, the holidays can also bring on feelings of sadness, nostalgia and loneliness for some. But I'm a big believer in not letting those feelings get the best of us - no matter what the circumstances. There are so many ways to find enjoyment in the season and bring yourself some cheer. Consider these ideas

to ward off holiday loneliness:

l Build social connections by joining a group or activity at a local senior center, communi-ty center or religious institution. Look for things like Wii tourna-ments, craft groups, trips to museums, and more. If you've recently lost someone close, find out if there is a support or

bereavement group for people in the same boat (widows/widow-ers, etc.). This can be a tremendous comfort, especially at this time of year.

l Take a class at a local university or recreation center

- many offer adult education courses in the arts, music, language, cooking and more. Keeping your mind sharp and using your creative skills truly does wonders.

l Volunteering is one of the best ways you can keep feeling young, vibrant and connected to others dur-ing the holidays. With my own children spread out across the country, I spent last Thanksgiving morning

peeling potatoes for a local soup kitchen in NYC. It was an incredibly rewarding and satisfying experience.

l Honor the name of a loved one. Even if you're not feeling social, you can do something that holds special meaning for a loved one. This can be as simple as planting a tree in their name, sponsoring a brick at Ellis Island or making a contribution of your time or money to their favorite charity.

Dr. Marion SoMerS

Holiday Ho-HumHow to banish those "bah, humbug" blues


What if you're feeling fine, but you're caring for an older loved one who may not be looking forward to the holidays? There are also many ways to help the elderly combat loneliness and participate in the joy of the season.

While younger people are often busy running around getting gifts, making food and putting up the decorations for the holidays, elder loved ones may be lamenting past occasions when they were at a happier place in their lives. Others might not even be aware that the holidays are here. But there are a few things you can do to make your loved ones feel like they're a vital part of the holidays.

l Communicate early and often. Especially if you're not going to be spend-ing the holidays with an older relative, the sound of your voice over the phone can bring great comfort. Call them while you're trimming the tree, hanging the lights or preparing to sit down and eat so they feel included in your activities. Ask them about their plans as well. Make sure you put any grandchildren and great-grandchildren on the phone, so they can hear their voices too.

l Send/share family photos. Old family photos can bring back fond memo-ries and remind your loved ones of the important role they still play in your family. Create a scrapbook or photo album that you can mail or - even better - look through together in person. Include names and dates to help trigger their memory.

l Include them in the festivities. If your loved one will be with you for the holidays, give them an active role. Involve them in things like wrapping the presents, chopping the nuts or beating the eggs. You could also make your elder the guest of honor who lights the candles or recites a special prayer or story if that occurs in your family. Many elderly also like to sing holiday songs - it's part of their long-term memory and can help them recall good times. Whatever your plan, it has to be something that makes your elder feel pres-ent and in the middle of things in a genuine way.

Dr. Marion Somers, Ph.D., is an elder care expert and the author of Elder Care Made Easier as well as the caregiving iPhone apps Elder 411 and Elder 911.

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Cut Your Taxes

For many, mid-November through New Year's Day is a blur of activity when

important tasks get ignored. Who has time to review their benefits and tax paperwork when holiday planning looms overhead?

But what if spending a few minutes on such mundane tasks could shave hundreds of dollars off your taxes? Here are a few suggestions:

Review your 401(k). If you haven't already maxed out, ask your employer if you can make a catch-up contribution to your 401(k), 403(b) or 457 plan before year's end. Most people can contribute up to $16,500 in 2010, plus an additional $5,500 if they're over 50.

If you make pretax contributions, your taxable income is reduced, which in turn lowers your taxes. Plus, if your employer offers matching contributions (essentially, free money), be sure to contribute at least enough to take full advantage of the match. The "Retirement Contribution Effects on Your Paycheck" calculator at www.dinkytown.com can help estimate the impact on your taxes.

Note: The maximum 2010 contribu-tion to a regular or Roth IRA is $5,000 ($6,000 for those 50 and older), but you have until April 15, 2011.

Money MATTERS

JasonAlDerMAn

Exhaust your FSA balances. If you par-ticipate in employer-sponsored health care or dependent care flexible spending accounts (FSAs), which let you use pretax dollars to pay for eligible expenses, be sure to spend the full balance before the

plan-year deadline (sometimes up to 75 days into the following year); other-wise, you'll forfeit the remaining balance.

You can use your health care FSA for copayments, deduct-ibles and medical devices (e.g., glasses, contact lenses, braces); however, effective January 1, 2011, over-the-counter medi-cines will only be eligible with

a doctor's prescription (an exception is made for insulin), so you may want to stock up now. Read IRS Publication 502 for a complete list of allowable and non-allowable expenses at www.irs.gov.

Charitable contributions. If you itemize de-ductions this year, charitable contributions made to IRS-approved organizations by December 31, 2010, are generally tax-deductible. (See IRS Publication 78 for a complete list of organizations.) If you've got extra cash now and want to lower your 2010 taxes even further, consider moving up donations you would have made in 2011.

Energy tax credits. Allowable tax credits for certain energy-efficient improvements to principal residences will be reduced after Decem-ber 31, 2010, unless Congress votes to extend 2010 levels. Until then, you can claim a tax credit for 30 percent of the total cost of eligible products purchased in 2009 and 2010, up to a maximum combined credit of $1,500 per household.

Eligible products include: biomass stoves; heating, ventilating and air condition-ing (HVAC) systems; insulation; roofs (metal and asphalt); windows and doors; and non-solar water heaters. Carefully review the Energy Star website (www.energystar.gov/

taxcredits) to make sure your purchases qualify.

Gifts. You're allowed to bestow a total of $1 million in gifts during your lifetime before the federal gift tax kicks in. One way to exceed that limit – and avoid hav-ing to file a Gift Tax Return – is by giving separate, annual gifts of up to $13,000 per year, per person. (Married couples filing jointly can give $26,000 per recipient.) Rules for gift and estate taxes are complex, so read IRS Publication 950 and consult your financial advisor.Jason Alderman directs Visa's financial education programs. To Follow Jason Alderman on Twitter: www.twitter.com/PracticalMoney


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by Bud Bradley, Vice President of Shopping Centers at AlliedBarton Security Services (www.alliedbarton.com)

As the holiday season gets into full swing, some crooks and predators are celebrating their “holiday cheer” with assorted mayhem, misdeeds and misdemeanors. Observe these tips for a safe holiday season:• Stay Alert - Thieves and predators are on the lookout for

body language that conveys vulnerability. Criminals look for easy marks such as people who are preoccupied with infants or small children, on a cell phone or fumbling with packages. Walk confidently and be alert. Keep your shopping bags in your sight at all times, and don’t burden yourself with too many packages.•Don’t be Flashy – Displaying large sums of cash is a power-

ful lure to greedy thieves. Use checks or credit cards whenever possible and never leave your credit card on a store counter or out of your sight. Instead of signing the back of your credit card, write “See ID.” Store clerks should verify ownership of the card before processing it.•Keep Your Purse Close – Carry your purse close to your

body with the clasp or flap secured and facing toward you. For safety reasons, long straps on shoulder-style bags should never be placed over the head. Never leave your purse on a store counter, or on the floor in a restroom or dressing room. • Stay Together, Shop Together – There is safety in numbers,

so shopping with friends whenever possible is highly recom-mended. However, if you are shopping alone, ask mall security for an escort to or from your car.•Report Suspicious Activity – Report suspicious people or

situations to mall security. •Collect Cash with Care – Avoid using unfamiliar ATMs

when possible. ATM skimmers are devices that are deceivably placed on the ATM by thieves to access your personal informa-tion or account. Avoid this by using ATM machines inside bank lobbies, under video surveillance, that are less likely to be tam-pered with. Shield the keyboard as you enter your PIN and keep your card in your possession. Don’t accept help from strangers at the ATM and if the machine keeps your card, call your bank immediately.• Avoid Parking Lot Isolation – Parking lots are targeted

locations for the theft of valuables from vehicles. Parking in an isolated area rolls out the welcome mat for criminals, so park near other vehicles or in high pedestrian and vehicle traffic areas. Plan your visit so that you are parked in a well lighted area during hours of darkness. You can also avoid becoming an easy target for theft by storing packages and valuables out of sight in your vehicle or placing them in the trunk. Make sure that your windows are closed and doors are locked. •Be Proactive, Be Ready – Avoid becoming an easy mark

by being aware of noises and movements and having your keys in your hands, ready to open your vehicle. Be sure to look into the vehicle’s front and rear seat before entering it, and lock your vehicle as soon as you get in. If someone approaches your vehicle inquiring about directions, do not open your door or roll your window down. If you have car trouble, remain in your car and use a cell phone to call for assistance, or return to the mall and notify security.

Shopping Safety Tips


lee AronSon

LAWS of the land

Insurance BluesBack in the late 1980’s there

was a fellow in Texas who worked for a music company. I’m going to call him Chops, which is not his real name.

Anyway, Chops had a pretty good job. In addition to his salary, he also got some nice ben-efits, including health insurance. But his health insurance had a cap: the absolutely positively most the insurance would pay for medical care over Chop’s lifetime was one million dollars. That’s not something Chops was worried about. After all, a million dollars is a lot of money.

He wasn’t even worried when he got di-agnosed with a serious medical condition. He went to his employer and told them everything about his diagnosis in March 1988. Chops followed his doctor’s orders and was able to continue to work. But in July 1988, the Music Company informed its employees, including Chops, that

starting immediately, changes would be made in their medical coverage. Although the million dollar lifetime limit would remain, the lifetime limit for one particular diagnosis was changing. There was now a lifetime maximum of $5,000 for benefits payable for claims related to this one particular diagnosis.

Care to guess what this one particular diagnosis was? That’s right, it was the serious medical condition that Chops happened to have. No other limitations were placed on any other catastrophic illnesses. Now Chops was worried. With a million dollar limit, he didn’t need to worry about paying for his health care out of his own pocket. But he exhausted the new $5,000 limit on coverage for his illness in only 5 months. Which meant that the insurance company wouldn’t pay another penny ever again for any more treatment related to this diagnosis.

Seem fair to you? It didn’t to Chops. So he sued. The case went all the way up to the United States Supreme Court. The result: “an employer has an absolute right to alter

the terms of medical coverage available to plan beneficiaries.” Chops was out of luck.

And that was the law of the land for the next 20 some odd years. But due to a new law that just went into effect, not any more. Before this new law, many health plans set a dollar limit on what they would spend for your covered benefits during the entire time you were enrolled in that plan: otherwise known as a lifetime limit or lifetime cap. But under this new law, The Affordable Care Act, lifetime limits or


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caps on health insurance are almost always illegal. Chops would have been pleased.

And while I’m on the subject of insur-ance, I want to tell you about a recent case that involved my old High School. I went to private school in New Orleans. As you can imagine, a private high school has to have a lot of different kinds of insurance. And one of the types of insurance my old high school had was something called a Business Income insurance policy. The way these policies work is if something happens to temporarily shut down your business, like a fire, then the insurance will pay you your lost profit while the business is shut down.

In my high school’s case, the something that happened to shut them down was Hurricane Katrina. “The school suffered major damage to its physical structure, which caused the school to be closed

for over 2 months. As a result, [the school] suffered a very substantial loss of tuition revenue/income for the school year 2005-2006, totaling approximately [three

million dollars.]” So the school asks the insurance company to pay up. The

insurance company refused because the Business Income insurance policy the school bought had a $350,000 limit.

Because my alma matter felt $350,000 was inadequate to cover three million dollars in lost profit, they sued the insur-ance company, arguing that no one told them that there was a $350,000 cap on their insurance. They argued that their insurance agent should have told them about the cap and should have advised the school that the amount of insurance it had purchased was not sufficient and should have recommended that they buy more. In the end, the Louisiana Supreme Court held that the school was wrong when it argued that no one told them about the $350,000 limit because it was clearly stated in the written policy. And although the school “was grossly underinsured for the extraordinary loss of tuition income caused by the hurricane…it is not the agent’s responsibility to advise a client that it is underinsured; instead, it is well settled that the necessary coverages are best deter-mined and calculated by the insured.”Lee Aronson is an attorney with Legal Ser-vices of North Louisiana. His practice areas include consumer protection law, housing law and health care law.


Judge Jeff Cox

from the BENCH

Custody Disputes Involving Parents versus Nonparents

In the last few weeks, I have had several custody cases involv-ing parents versus nonparents. Most of these situations involve family members who are trying to get custody of a child from a parent who is not fit to raise the child. The nonparent may be a grandparent, aunt, uncle, or even cousins. In a few of these cases, I have had an unrelated person seeking to gain custody from a parent. In looking at these cases, the Louisiana Civil Code provides guidance.

Louisiana Civil Code Article 133 states:If an award of joint custody or of

sole custody to either parent would result in substantial harm to the child, the court shall award custody to another person with whom the

child has been living in a wholesome and stable environment, or otherwise to any other person able to provide an adequate and stable environment.

The parent of the child is always given preference. In reading the comments under Article 133, the courts have interpreted that a parent has a paramount right to raise their child. This right rises to a constitutional right of the par-ent to raise the child. In order to take a child from a parent, evidence must shown that the child remaining with the parent would result in substantial harm to the child.

According to the cases listed in the comments under Article 133, the evidence must show two factors in order that a child be removed from a parent and given to a nonpar-ent. The first factor that must be shown is that substantial harm would result to the child if they remained in the custody of the parent.

According to the cases listed in the comments under Article 133, substantial harm can be shown by neglect of the parent, behavior of the child when they are with the parent, home of the parent, and fitness of the parent to raise the child and pro-vide for the child’s education. If substantial harm can be shown, then the next factor must be considered.

The next factor which has to be considered is the environment of the nonparent and whether placing the child with the nonparent is in the best interest of the child. The nonparent has to provide the child with a wholesome and stable environment. In other words, the nonparent must be providing the child with all the things a parent should be providing the child. These things include but are not limited to education, extracurricu-

lar activities, church, adequate meals, and adequate living arrangement.

If the person seeking custo-dy is a nonparent, they have a tough legal battle to prove that they are in a better position to raise a child over a parent. Our law gives the paramount right to parents to raise their chil-dren, even if they are marginal in their ability to raise the child and another person may do a better job. Nonparents need to give strong consideration when seeking custody of a child where a parent is involved due to the nature of the law written in this area. Judge Jeff Cox is the 26th Judicial Court Judge for Bossier/Webster Parishes, Division C.


It’s starting again. All that advice about how not to gain weight, how to reduce stress and how to stay on your fitness program during the holidays. Well good luck with that. For years I’ve been giving out advice of my own. Moderation I’ve always say, “Just take a little taste of everything”.

Exercise on holiday mornings. Huh? Well, I’m throwing up my hands this year, kind of.

I’m not going to tell you to just take a little taste of pie when you really want to eat the whole piece, nor to bypass that great stuffing that you only eat once a year. Life is short and this behavior is not the culprit anyway. The fact is holidays

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Holiday Moderation: Bah, Humbug!

When you’re a tourist in your own state, the whole state

benefits. In fact, the Louisiana tourism industry has an

annual economic impact on our state of $9.4 billion. And

when you invite your friends and family to visit you in

Louisiana, the impact is even greater. For a complete

calendar of events, visit our website.

When you go to a nightclub,

SINGS.ALL LOUISIANA

© 2010 The Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation & Tourism

LouisianaTravel.com

ite.

are a time to embrace life, be social and enjoy activities bordering on the excessive.

And when you come right down to it, it’s not what you do during the holidays, it’s what you do the rest year.

So, if you really need to hear about moderation in your daily life, here goes.

Know that every pound equals 3500 calories and all calories are not created equal. Some are more nutritious than others and some are downright empty. Try to make healthy food choices, watch your portion size and read your labels.

Get at least a half an hour of moderate exercise most days of the week.

Take a few minutes to do something for yourself, something you like, every day.

For instance, every morning when I get up, I kiss my cat.

If you’re already doing this then you’ve got nothing to worry about this holiday season.

If not, you have my humble suggestion for a New Year’s resolution.Mirabai Holland M.F.A. legendary fitness pioneer, specializes in preventive and rehabilitative exercise. Her Moving Free® approach to exercise is designed to provide a movement experience so pleasant it doesn't feel like work. Send your Moving Free with Mirabai questions to: [email protected]. www.easyexercisevideos.com ©2010

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East Texas Eye Doctor Helps Legally Blind to See AgainDiplomate in Low Vision Care trains Dr. Larry Chism to help those with macular degeneration to keep reading and driving.By Elena LombardiFreelance Writer

Carole Buckels wearing bioptic telescope driving glasses.

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Donald Paquette, 72, a former assessor from anaheim, California thought that his driving days were over. “i could not read the street signs soon enough and i couldn’t pass the vision test at the DmV office.”

Gonzalo Garcia, 74, albuquerque, New mexico, wanted to be able to read and write more easily. He wanted to see the nails and screws when he tried to use them in home repairs. He wanted see his grandchildren singing in the church choir. But he thought those days were over when he was diagnosed with macular Degeneration.

California Optometrist, Dr. richard J. shuldiner and east texas optometrist, Dr. larry Chism, are using miniaturized binoculars or telescopes to help people who have lost vision from macular degeneration or other eye conditions.

“some of my patients consider us the last stop for people who have vision loss,” said Dr. Chism, a low vision optometrist who has just completed training with Dr. shuldiner in California.

“amazing!” says Donald. “i can read the street signs twice as far as i did before and even see the television better!” Dr. shuldiner also provided special prismatic reading glasses to make the newspaper a little easier to read.

macular Degeneration is the most common eye disease amongst the senior population. as many as 25% of those over 65 have some degree

of degeneration. the macula is one small part of the entire retina, but it is the most sensitive and gives us sharp images.

When it degenerates, macular Degeneration leaves a blind spot right in the center of vision making it impossible to recognize faces, read a book, or pass the drivers vision test.

the experts do not know what causes macular degeneration. But major factors include uV light from the sun, smoking, aging, and improper nutrition.

Vitamins can help. the results of two studies, areDs and last demonstrated a lowered risk of progression by about 25% when treated with a highdose combination of vitamins.

a new, proprietary supplement based on the scientific studies is available from these doctors.

Nine out of ten people who have macular degeneration have the dry type. there is no medical treatment except for vitamins. the wet type involves leaky blood vessels that can sometimes be sealed with hot or cold laser. unfortunately it’s a temporary fix. Newer treatments, such as macugen injections try to prevent leakage.

“Our job is to figure out everything and anything possible to keep a person functioning,” says Dr. Chism. “Whether it’s driving, reading, watching television, seeing faces,

playing bridge…we work with whatever is on the persons “wish list”.

even if it’s driving. louisiana and texas allow the use of telescopic glasses for safer driving.

Carole Buckles, 71 of arcadia, California came on the advise of a friend. “i wanted to be able to keep driving and do the fun things in life.” One of those fun things is baseball. “i love going to baseball games and now i can see those close plays again,” she says.

Bioptic telescopic glasses were prescribed to read signs and see traffic lights farther away. as Carole puts it, “these telescope glasses not only allows me to read signs from a farther distance, but makes driving much easier. i’ve also used them to watch television so i don’t have to sit so close. Definitely worth the $1975 cost. i don’t know why i waited two years to do this; i should have come sooner.”

“telescopic glasses usually cost over $2000”, says Dr. shuldiner, “especially if we build them with an automatic sunglass”.

Not all low vision devices are that expensive. reading glasses start at $500 and hand magnifiers under $100. every case is different because people have different levels of vision and different desires.

Dr. Chism also provides special prismatic reading glasses to make the newspaper a little easier to read.

Dr. larry Chism speaks to every patient on the telephone before scheduling the one hour low vision evaluation appointment.

Call Dr. Chism, toll free,

at 1-888-243-2020 for a FREE telephone interview.


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•��Special�needs�planning�–�Protect inheri-tances or settlements received by persons with disabilities that would otherwise simply re-place government benefits.

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Friends, Family and Fun

Bella Mainiero, Sara Oberle, Victoria Mainiero, Kaitlyn Olds, Lucas MainieroQueen Mother Lynda Herzog Pope with her

Prince Lewis Pope.

Judson Reed & his new puppy Margaret and Jim Elrod

Denise Gresens and Donna Cavanaugh

Gofor Clown with Rosie Burks

We annually showcase snapshots of our readers in a special photo section. This year we put out

the call for those best of times moments for a “Friends, Family, and Fun” album. The overwhelming response was heart warming. Our album is full of happy, smiling people proudly posing with their friends, children, grandchildren, and pets. You’ll find yourself smiling as well as you page through these pages. Enjoy!


A reunion of former employees of Webster

Council on Aging celebrated the 95th birthday of

Opal Corbin (left). With her are Joyce Shirley,

Patsy Dees, Cynthia Sibole, Sarah Woods, and

Nell Blackburn.

Above: Spar Airport Park Community Center Seniors Domino

Tournament winners Refus “Champ” Combs

and Henry “Dock” Peck

Right: Cheryl Thibodeaux

with aunt Mary Barnes,

daughter Alison Clayton,

and granddaughter Lauren

Clayton

Brookie Walker celebrated her 60th with Bridge buddies (standing) Jan Glasgow, Chloe Thornton, Debbie Grand, Abby Averett, Marianne Mosteller, Meg Goorley ; (seated) Brookie, Charlcie Bain, and Barbara Chaney

The graduation of Gordon Neal Blackman III at Texas A&M. This picture includes three generations of the Blackman family. Left to right are: Gregory with Andrew on his shoulders, Neal, Rachel, Gordon Sr., Gordon Jr., Caroline, George, Michelle, and Mary

Sheryl Little with grandson

Connor Dean

Mark and Jessica Rinaudo with their dogs Leela and Bonnie

90th birthday party for Felix Pinnix – (back): Vickie holding Connor, Clay, Sean with Miles, Melody, Jeff, Thad and Sherry; (front) Patricia, Hope and Kate, Felix, Kelsie and Karolyn

Jeri Holloway and Eli

Ann Rhads, Frances Jones, Betty

Hensley, and Jim Burham

Best friends Katelyn Roberts and Kathryn Rogers

Bob and Sandra Corley in Branson

Archer Thompson & “Yiayia” Tricia Thompson

Christopher Tanner Head as Billy the Exterminator.

Buster, the granddog of Mae Zakris


Take chargeDON'T TURN YOUR BACK ON BACK PAIN


When you think of women’s health issues, spinal fractures probably don’t come to mind. But they should. These common fractures can not only be disfiguring, but deadly.

Spinal fractures are the most common osteoporotic fracture; over 900,000 spinal fractures occur every year in the United States alone, according to industry estimates and research. They occur more often than hip fractures in any one year. They also increase the risk of death. Unlike a hip fracture, the risk of death following a spinal fracture (link to: http://www.spinalfracture.com) continues to increase progressively, so it is important to treat spinal fractures soon after they occur. Sadly, only about one third of these fractures ever receive medical attention.

The main cause of spinal fractures is osteoporosis, which silently robs you of the density in your vertebrae — bones we often take for granted. Think of the vertebrae in your spine as a stack of square building blocks with mesh interiors. Osteoporosis causes the mesh architecture inside the blocks to deteriorate, eventually causing micro-fractures. As micro-fractures accumulate, the blocks become weaker and less able to resist the stresses we expect them to handle. Many times, what seems like very minor stress can cause fractures and the vertebrae to collapse, which causes the vertebrae to become compressed. You may notice you are getting shorter, and gradually you will notice a curving forward of your spine. This is called kyphosis.

Besides loss of height, some other changes occurring in your body might be due to spinal fractures. Do your clothes not quite fit right? Are you developing a “tummy” that you never had? Do you eat less because you get full so fast? Are you short of breath from small exertions?

With spinal fractures, what was once a nice sturdy compartment for your internal organs gradually becomes smaller and smaller, compress-ing your stomach, lungs and digestive tract. The compression keeps your lungs from expanding fully, makes your heart work harder and your entire digestive track is pushed forward between your ribs and hips.

Spinal fractures can occur spontaneously or from the minimal stress of day-to-day activities. Sometimes there is no pain and the fracture goes unnoticed, but sometimes there is extreme pain.

For Marian Williams, 80, of Salem, Va., it was both spontaneous and very painful. As she was walking down the stairs in her home, “It felt like something slipped in my back. It started hurting right away, and the pain quickly became unbearable. I couldn’t do anything. Even when I was lying down or sitting down, it hurt,” she said. “It hurt to move. It hurt to

breathe. I never had pain like that before. It was excruciating.”

Marian was admitted to the hospital and referred to Dr. Van Lewis, a neuroradiologist in nearby Roanoke, who recommended a minimally invasive surgery known as KYPHON (R) Balloon Kyphoplasty. During this procedure, two tiny incisions are made in the back and balloons are inserted through small tubes into the fractured bone. The balloons are then carefully inflated in an attempt to raise the collapsed bone. The balloons are then removed, creating cavities in the bone that are filled with bone cement. A clinical study has shown that those who undergo this procedure experience improved quality of life, faster back pain relief and quicker return of physical function than patients who opt for non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy or pain medication. The benefits were sustained on average throughout 12 months. While spinal fractures may be associated with mortality, no data exists currently to show that KYPHON Balloon Kyphoplasty improves the mortality rate.

The complication rate with KYPHON Balloon Kyphoplasty has been demonstrated to be low. There are risks associated with the procedure (e.g., cement leakage), including serious complications, and though rare, some of which may be fatal. This procedure is not for everyone. A prescription is required. Please consult your physician for a complete list of indications, contraindications, benefits, and risks. Only you and your physician can determine whether this procedure is right for you.

Three days after being admitted to the hospital, Marian was treated with balloon kyphoplasty. “When I woke up from the surgery, they took me back to my room and told me to lie flat for two hours ... the excruciat-ing pain was gone,” Marian said.

Marian no longer has excruciating back pain and is back to her regular activities, which include lifting light weights, using the weight machines and taking low-impact aerobic classes at her gym three times a week.

For a free, informational packet on KYPHON Balloon Kyphoplasty, potential patients and physicians can call [phone number to be inserted here]. More information about spinal fractures can be found on the Internet at www.spinalfracture.com (link to: http://www.spinalfracture.com/) or www.kyphon.com. (link to: http://www.kyphon.com/us/home.aspx) or by writing to Medtronic, Inc., 1221 Crossman Ave., Sunnyvale, CA, 94089. KYPHON Balloon Kyphoplasty incorporates technology developed by Dr. Gary K. Michelson.

Standing Tall: What Women Need to Know about Spinal Fractures

Take chargeDON'T TURN YOUR BACK ON BACK PAIN


Top Left: Patrice Gaydos, Patricia Thompson, Lily Mijalis, Tina Cosse, Melanie Salter, Sophie Duke, Lisa Skamangas, Sophia Kastanos, Mitzi Theo and Annie Solice

Tricia Thompson with grandchildren Phillip, Thomas, Archer and Anna Thompson

Brian & Yvonne Davlin, Kaitlin, Susan & Tim Weaver and Mary Yawn

Holli Hennessy, Dianne Lane, Cindy Harris

and Claudia Lyles

Sarah and Ryan Wagley with cousin Layne Humphrey

Jessica Lee and Andrew Pate were married on July 24th at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Shreveport. Pictured are (left to right): Jeff Lee, Carrie Beth Burns, Bethany Lawler, Jeremy Rury, Eva Deeds, Jessica Lee Pate, Andrew Pate, Alex Pate, Jonathan Pate, Lauren Pate, Tyler Perkins.

Matt Head with daughter Mackenzie Margaret and Ronnie Wagley,

daughter Mary Ann Wagley, and grandchildren Sarah, Jacob and Ryan Wagley

Bob Griffin and Wiley Massey

Mary Jo Houston celebrating her 100th birthday with granddaughter Nancy Houston and great granddaughter Lindsey Liu

Above: Jerry Lee, Kim Gaspard, and Bob Brotherton pheasant hunting in S Dakota

Aaron and Victoria Mainiero with Mason


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Larry LafitteMore than a musical performance!

Larryengagestheaudienceasheminglesamongthem,encouragingthemtosingalongandparticipateinthefunandlaughter.

Songsforpersonsofallagesandmusicaltaste.

Performancesatnursinghomes,retirementcommunitiesandotherfacilities

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Sandy Botzong, Karen Kennedy, Barbara Chaney,

Maggie McElroy, and Frances Washburne

Ray Peebles, Tom Trenney and Fred

McClanahan at an organ concert

Malynn and Nolan Hable

Caroline Moore, Jane Wehlander, and Nell Reeves

Librarian Penny Boster, Counselor Pam Reeves,

Principal Nancy Doerner and Assistant Principal

Cathy Turner dressed for Halloween at

Princeton Elementary

Ronnie and Donna Grimaldi

Melvin Reed & Melvin Reed Jr

Doris & Jim Harper, Frank Eberhardt, Jim McCoy, Donnie Lawless, and Inez Ford


Margaret d’Aquin emails this photo to family members on their birthday

Senior Care at Brentwood Hospital

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Sandy Botzong, Karen Kennedy, Barbara Chaney,

Maggie McElroy, and Frances Washburne

Ray Peebles, Tom Trenney and Fred

McClanahan at an organ concert

Malynn and Nolan Hable

Caroline Moore, Jane Wehlander, and Nell Reeves

Librarian Penny Boster, Counselor Pam Reeves,

Principal Nancy Doerner and Assistant Principal

Cathy Turner dressed for Halloween at

Princeton Elementary

Ronnie and Donna Grimaldi


Doris & Jim Harper, Frank Eberhardt, Jim McCoy, Donnie Lawless, and Inez Ford


Margaret d’Aquin emails this photo to family members on their birthday

The hours James Nix spends with his grandchildren are perhaps his most cherished time. After all, he almost never got the chance to even see his grandchildren. Back in 1981, while working for the electric company, James came in contact with some high voltage that left him seriously injured and burned. Both of his arms were amputated as a result, but with strong determination James has been able to overcome new challenges one day at a time. “It all just depends on you and your positive attitude about things,” explains Nix. “When somebody tells you that you can’t do something, prove them wrong!” That same kind of determination drives our practitioners and tech-nicians to keep improving the devices we fit and fabricate. We want to make life a little easier for those we serve. But we also believe that while biomechanics, technology, and mathematical precision play a large part in the services we provide, the true heart of our work is based on the human touch rather than the scientific one.

Giving the Human Touch

ORTHOTICS • PROSTHETICS

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www.SnellsOandP.com

Serving Shreveport (2 locations), Bossier City, Monroe, Alexandria, Ruston, Minden, Natchitoches, Coushatta, and Mansfield.

Returning independence to our patients since 1911


Ashley Beard, Victoria Mainiero and Kyra Maxey

Cousins Nic Hults & Judson Reed

Leonard and Denise GresensDan Waters (center) helps gradson Lee (left) and son Mike with a school project

Sheryl Little with daughters Michelle Wagley and Jennifer Humphrey

Mackenzie Head with her date Anthony are ready for homecoming

Shawn, son of Joshua and Elizabeth CarrollConstantine and Aliki Pappas on the

first day of school

Edwina Hill, Bryan Wooley, Debbie Martin, and

Earlene ColemanBill Kent, Kay Kent, Iris Cotton

Happy Birthday Charlie Simmons

\

T he O’Malley girls have a passion for knitting. Known as the Knit

Knackers, they share their passion at Horizon Bay.

Offering the perfect balance of supportive services and personalized health care with an active, engaged lifestyle, we empower you to lead the fulfilling and rewarding life you deserve. We’d love for you to continue your story with us.

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Your story continues here...Knit Knackers“Knit one, purl two isn’t the only thing that connects us.”

For more information or to visit, call today!

(318) 747-2114 Resident experiences portrayed by models.105219_10


Ashley Beard, Victoria Mainiero and Kyra Maxey

Cousins Nic Hults & Judson Reed

Leonard and Denise GresensDan Waters (center) helps gradson Lee (left) and son Mike with a school project

Sheryl Little with daughters Michelle Wagley and Jennifer Humphrey

Mackenzie Head with her date Anthony are ready for homecoming

Shawn, son of Joshua and Elizabeth CarrollConstantine and Aliki Pappas on the

first day of school

Edwina Hill, Bryan Wooley, Debbie Martin, and

Earlene ColemanBill Kent, Kay Kent, Iris Cotton

Happy Birthday Charlie Simmons


Bunko buddies (seated) Helen Palmer, Lynn

Homza and Barbara Chaney; (standing) Debbie

Eason, Debbie Grand, Brenda Kennon, Libby

Alexander, Med Goorley, Susan Smelley, Jean

Gamble and Judy Brainis

Erma Scull, Carolyn Bounds, JoAnn Quaid,

Hugh Scott Coyle, Betty Williams

Bill Hines with Dee and Billy Palmer

Bob and Carolyn Franklin at the John F Kennedy

Hyannis Museum

Linda Goldsberry, Sheryl Little, Marcy Everett

and Joan Bergeron

Ed Jacobs and Barbara Colvin at St Pat’s Day lunch

50th anniversary party for Chris and Anita Miaoulis. Back row: P.J. Lowentritt, Tonya Lowentritt, Anita Miaoulis, Chris Miaoulis, Nick Miaoulis, Monique Stubbs and Marc Stubbs, Sr. Middle row: Marc Stubbs, Jr., Marley Stubbs, Mallory Stubbs and Sherri Miaoulis. Front row: Olivia Lowentritt and Daniel Lowentritt.

Garrett Lavell Simmons

Stephanie Vosley and Mary Anne Rankin at a golf tournament hosted by with BCOA


Pyra Calligas with grandchildren Alexa, Louis and Jason Calligas

Aaron Mainiero, Jan Starnes, Lori Mainiero, Victoria Mainiero, Stacey Crews

Mayor Cedric Glover with Paul,

Kori & Trinity A (children of Stephanie Vosley)

Mark Burley, Jeff Lee, Danny Martin

Mamie Organ, Lavada Long, Patricia Smithey, and

Gerry Jackson

Rosie Burks, Val and Norm Tawwatters, Angie

McFarland.

Kay Constantine, Magdalene Calambakas, Kiki Mitchell, and Sandra Polizos

Indoors tennis team members Debbie Grand, Neal Mottet, Barbara Head, Abby Averett, and Susan Smelley

Connie Waters (left) nominated sister-in-law Mary McIntosh for the LA Volunteer Service award

Tina Yampanis with her aunt Angel Pappas and mom Helen Yampanis


Pyra Calligas with grandchildren Alexa, Louis and Jason Calligas

Aaron Mainiero, Jan Starnes, Lori Mainiero, Victoria Mainiero, Stacey Crews

Mayor Cedric Glover with Paul,

Kori & Trinity A (children of Stephanie Vosley)

Mark Burley, Jeff Lee, Danny Martin

Mamie Organ, Lavada Long, Patricia Smithey, and

Gerry Jackson

Rosie Burks, Val and Norm Tawwatters, Angie

McFarland.

Kay Constantine, Magdalene Calambakas, Kiki Mitchell, and Sandra Polizos

Indoors tennis team members Debbie Grand, Neal Mottet, Barbara Head, Abby Averett, and Susan Smelley

Connie Waters (left) nominated sister-in-law Mary McIntosh for the LA Volunteer Service award

Tina Yampanis with her aunt Angel Pappas and mom Helen Yampanis

Shreveport l ittle theatre

BroaDWaY BelterS: A Benefit for SLT’s Phoenix Project x2

June 25 - 27, 2010

piNKaliCioUSDecember 4, 2010

a ChriStMaS CarolThis Holiday Season!

leS MiSeraBleSJuly 22 – August 1, 2010

reNtOctober 14 - 24, 2010

pippiN(a co-production with SLTAcademy

& SLT’s Mainstage)

laSt oF the reD hot loverSSeptember 9 - 19, 2010

i love YoU, YoU’re perFeCt, NoW ChaNGe

November 4 - 14, 2010

a StreetCar NaMeD DeSireJanuary 6 -16, 2011

little Shop oF horrorSMarch 3 - 13, 2011

pippiNApril 28 - May 8, 2011

Call (318) 424-4439 or email [email protected]

Or Visit Our Box Office - 300 OCKLEY at Youree Dr.www.shreveportlittletheatre.org


have a hard time imagining what I’d do with a 175,000 square foot home

— or even with a relatively small 60,645 square foot home. (For comparison’s sake, the average new home in the United States is 2,500 square feet.) But then, I’m not a Vanderbilt or a Hearst.

Their homes — The Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC and the aptly named Hearst Castle in San Simeon, CA — are among the largest homes in the United States, and at Christmas they are opulent, outrageous and — in these recessionary times — over-the-top.

The Biltmore EstateIt’s not easy to impress

relatives, especially when their last name is Vanderbilt. But young George III — grandson of Cornelius, the great railroad tycoon — managed to do just that when he invited his family to Christmas Eve dinner back in 1895.

His relatives traveled by private railway from New York to the then-small town of Asheville, North Carolina. There amid the mountains of southern Appalachia, George welcomed them to his new home, a luxurious estate that

rivaled the grandest French chateaux. His niece, Gertrude, was appropriately awed. “I have seldom enjoyed a place so much,” she reportedly exclaimed.

Of course, even without Christmas glitter, the estate is statistically and artistically staggering:

• The mansion, the largest in the United States, is more than three times the size of the White House, and the grounds are more than nine times the size of New York’s Central Park.

• The 250 rooms, about a third of which are open to the public, include 65 fireplaces, 35 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms,

three kitchens, an indoor bowling alley and a heated swimming pool.

• More than 50,000 objects of art are on display, including paintings by Renoir and Whistler and several 16th-century Flemish tapestries.

Now add to this the Christmas stats: nearly 100 decorated Christmas trees, ranging from a small, tabletop model to a 35-foot Fraser fir that sits in the seven-story Banquet Hall; more than 1,000 wreaths and bows; 1,450 poinsettias, miles of evergreen garlands and, according to floral displays manager Cathy Barnhardt, “bazillions of ornaments.”

This year the giant fir will be laden with child-pleasing decorations, including dolls, tops and even tricycles and toy trains. This is designed to reflect those early Christmases when the Vanderbilts hosted massive family-friendly Christmas parties for their employees and gave a present to each child who lived on the estate.

While Vanderbilt was most concerned with his own home, he also wanted to provide livable space for his workers. In 1889 he purchased property near the estate, tore down the dilapidated buildings and built a planned

Christmas in America’s Castles

by Andrea Gross (www.andreagross.com)

Photos:(left and bottom) Christmas at the Biltmore Estate courtesy of Biltmore Company. (Right) Christmas at Hearst Castle, photo courtesy Hearst Castle®/California State Parks


community in which all streets radiated out fan-shape from the focal point, All Souls Church. Biltmore Village was incorporated as a town in 1893, two years before Vanderbilt moved into his own mansion.

The first weekend in December the Village ushers in the holiday season by turning on thousands of lights. Strolling vocalists and instrumentalists — all dressed in turn-of-the-century costumes — offer free entertainment.

Vanderbilt would have like that and, I must admit, so do I!(www.biltmore.com/ Reservations advised.)

Hearst CastleSome 2500 miles away and several decades later, another

American tycoon began building an equally extravagant mansion, this one a Spanish style extravaganza designed by renowned architect Julia Morgan. William Randolf Hearst, the mega media mogul, took 28 years to finish his estate in San Simeon, California. It included one main house, three guesthouses, two pools, several tennis courts, 127 acres of gardens, and a zoo that contained more than 300 animals including zebras, kangaroos and yaks. (The zoo and one swimming pool have since been dismantled.) Many of Hollywood’s biggest stars visited regularly, especially during the holidays.

Hearst had the house decorated lavishly during the Christmas season, with huge trees laden with handmade garlands, brilliant poinsettias and elaborate ornaments. Today photos of Hearst’s holiday parties are used to recreate that festive atmosphere from mid-November through December.

After Hearst’s death, the family gave the property to the State of California. It has since been deemed a State Historical Monument and is run by the Park Service, which has set up six different tours.

I opt for the Evening Tour, when docents dress in period costumes and lights sparkle on the trees. The feeling is magical, and I can almost hear Bing Crosby crooning “White Christmas.” I feel as if — in more ways than one — I’m spending Christmas amongst the stars.(www.hearstcastle.org/ Reservations advised.)

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Terr

i SC

HLI

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EYER

the BOOKWORM

You’ve got your week all planned out.There’s a detective show on Mondays.

Two on Tuesdays, both at the same time (you’ll record one). Wednesdays, there are two of them back-to-back. There’s just one you want to watch on Thursday and Friday each, which leaves the weekend to catch up on repeats and the occasional odd cop show. What can you say? You’re a fan.

Dying for a decent detective drama? Then shut off the TV and grab “Amos Walker: the Complete Story Collection” by Loren D. Estleman. If you think CSI is the B-E-S-T, just you wait…

In 1980, author Loren D. Estleman introduced Private Investigator Amos Walker to the world. Walker is smart but he makes mistakes. He has a sarcastic wit that crooked cops

and criminals rarely catch. And he has a knack for solving the worst crimes com-mitted in and around Detroit.

In celebration of Walker’s 30th “anniversary”, Estleman pulls together every one of his Amos Walker stories, and he gives fans a brand-new one.

In “Needle”, an old man with a faded tattoo on his forearm shoots a young intruder lurking in his back yard. When Walker arrives, he finds a tattoo on the corpse’s face: a newly-gotten swastika. It’s a clear case of a homeowner protecting his property, until Walker aimlessly

pages through a photo album.

Redline Records’ Sheilah Sorrell is in trouble and she won’t say why, but her friend Ansel Albany knows it must be big so he calls his old pal Amos Walker. Sheilah is no more forthcoming to Walker than she is to Albany, but in “Deadly Force”, Walker knows she’s being smacked around by her boyfriend, Ronnie

Madrid. When Madrid shows up dead, Sheilah sings a different tune.

And when Max the Seeing Eye dog is stolen, his owner grieves. Max was not

just a working dog, he was a beloved companion and in “Dogs”, his owner hires Amos Walker to find her boy. Walker

immediately knows that it’s more than a Cave Canum case; this crime has gone to the dogs in more ways than one.

Though the stories in “Amos Walker: The Com-plete Story Collection” are set in modern times, you

have to concentrate to keep that in mind. That’s because each short tale has the dis-tinct feel of a flickery old black-and-white 1930s detective movie, and to fans of this genre, that’s irresistible.

Author Loren D. Estleman’s main character, Amos Walker, is a PI with a conscience, a man who gives money back to clients who pay too much, and who remembers his friends, even if they’re in prison. Walker isn’t flashy; he drives an old beater and lives in a flat he barely visits. He’s no womanizer, but he’s good with a gun, he’s got brains, and wow, I liked that.

Be aware that “Amos Walker: The Complete Story Collection” is, at 600 pages, a brick of a book. But if you’re a fan of detective novels, get this one and you’ve got the rest of this year all planned out.

The Bookworm is Terri Schlichenmeyer. Terri has been reading since she was 3 years old and she never goes anywhere without a book. She lives on a hill in Wisconsin with two dogs and 12,000 books.

“Amos Walker: The Complete Story Collection” by Loren D. Estleman©2010, Tyrus Books, $32.95, 600 pgs


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Should I wait for our physician to raise the possibility of hospice, or should I raise it first?

The most frequent comment hospice agencies hear from their patient’s and families is “I wish I would have known about ‘it’ sooner.” In 2008, 35.4% of those served by hospice died or were discharged in seven days or less - a timeframe way too short to realize the full benefits of hospice care. Ide-ally, discussions about adding the benefits of hospice services to an individual’s care regimen should begin when it appears that a cure may not be possible for a life-limiting illness and within the context an individual’s goals for treatment. It would not only be appropriate, but also prudent to initiate the conversation with your physician about hospice services.

aNSWerS FrOM The eXPerTS

Come Hear the Music Play

TICKETS & DETAILS:www.shreveportsymphony.com

318.227.8863Tickets start at $17

MICHAEL BUTTERMAN, MUSIC DIRECTOR

SHREVEPORTSYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

UPCOMING CONCERTSGo for the Gold | Sat., Jan. 8A Pair of Fives | Sat., Feb. 5

The Sounds of New Orleans | Fri., March 4

Season Finale | Sat., May 14 All concerts start at 7:30 PM

HOLIDAY POPS SAT., DEC. 18, 2010—7:30 PM

Riverview TheaterShreveport Symphony Orchestra

Kermit Poling, conductor Gale Odom, soprano

Seva May, altoHoliday Pops Childrens’ Chorus

Connie Lerchie, director

A local tradition for many years, the SSO’s Holiday Pops concert

will put you in the holiday spirit—guaranteed!

FREE SHUTTLE SERVICEShuttle picks up at Artspace

and Regions Bank parking garage at the corner of Milam & Market Streets.

My father is taking many prescription medications and is about to be admitted to a nursing home for rehab care from hip surgery. How will he get prescriptions refilled and will Medicare cover them?

The hospital’s discharging physi-cian will write orders for medications. Generally, the nursing home’s primary pharmacy will dispense the meds and they will be delivered to the center the same day. As to cost, if your father admits under Medicare Part A, the medications are paid for by the nursing center. If he admits as private pay, either your father or his prescription drug plan will be billed for the costs. If he is eligible for Medicaid and has been awarded benefits, the pharmacy will bill Medicaid for reimbursement.

I am a 50-year-old female who has worn contacts and glasses for my nearsighted condition for years. Will the new eye procedures eliminate my need for contacts or glasses?

After age 40, most people become presbyopic, meaning you lose your near vision. There are many options for people who want to reduce their dependence on glasses or contacts. Some people are great candidates for LASIK, while others would benefit more from the ReStor Multifocal Lens Implant. In order to know exactly which procedure is best for you, you should be examined. Call 212-3937 today to learn about all of the options available to you.

Is Osteoarthritis (OA) hereditary?OA does have a genetic predisposi-

tion. Common forms of OA of the hands has a familial component. Obesity is a modifiable risk factor for bilateral (both) knee OA and weight loss will reduce the risk of OA in the knee. Obesity, surprisingly, does not show an increased risk of hip OA, but does show increased risk of hand OA. Whether adipose tissue releases OA-causing growth factors or hormones is not known at present, but what is known is that weight loss does have an identifiable improvement in OA of the knee.


Maple Rib Roast 6 to 8 servings 5 pound rib roast, bone-in Salt and pepper to taste1 cup maple syrup1/3 cup Dijon mustard2 Tbs. fresh rosemary, finely chopped2 Tbs. fresh thyme, finely chopped2 Tbs. freshly ground black pepper Ready-made bordelaise sauce Rosemary sprig for garnish

Preheat oven to 400°F. Place roast, with bones side up, in roasting pan. Using a knife, make incisions in the fat. Season entire surface with salt and pepper. Cover ends of bones with aluminum foil.

In bowl, combine maple syrup and mustard, and baste roast with mixture. In another bowl, combine herbs and pepper, then season entire roast. Roast for 30 minutes.

Reduce temperature to 300°F and cook for another 2 hours until the meat is done, but still rare (around 135°F). Wrap roast in aluminum foil and let sit for 10 minutes prior to carving. Garnish with rosemary. Serve with bordelaise sauce and Maple Caramel ized Vegetables.

Pumpkin & Maple Syrup Mini Tarts6 mini tarts6 3-inch unbaked, mini tart crust shells 1 egg1 cup pumpkin purée 1/3 cup maple syrup 1/8 tsp. ground ginger 1/8 tsp. ground cloves¼ tsp. ground nutmeg ½ ts. ground cinnamon ½ cup whipping cream Maple syrup to taste

Preheat oven to 375°F. In bowl, beat egg with pumpkin purée and maple syrup. Add spices and cream. Mix well to obtain a consistent mixture. Pour mix ture into crust shells. Bake in center of oven for 15 minutes, or until pump kin mixture is firm.

Whip cream with a splash of maple syrup (to taste) until stiff. Serve tarts hot or cold with a garnish of whipped cream, and sprinkle with maple sugar.

Family Features

The holidays are a time to celebrate the warmth of friendship, the love of

family and the joy of the season. And when it comes to the holiday meal, you want a menu to match the mood and make everyone feel at home. Pure Canadian maple syrup is a versatile, all natural ingredient that adds com plexity and depth to your holiday recipes. The flavorful, yet subtle sweetness in maple syrup brings out the best in savory dishes like a beautiful rib roast, succu lent roasted root vegetables, and an almost decadent sweet potato purée. For more flavorful ways to savor your holiday meals, visit the Federation of Quebec Maple Syrup’s website, www.purecanadamaple.com, and follow on Twitter @PureCanadaMaple.

Sweet Potato Purée with Pecans & Maple Syrup 5 medium-size sweet potatoes ½ cup butter ½ cup maple syrup ¼ cup sour cream 1 tablespoon chives, finely chopped ½ cup oven-roasted whole pecans

Preheat oven to 350°F. Using a knife, pierce sweet potatoes several times. Put on cookie sheet and bake for 1 hour, or until soft. Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes.

Peel sweet potatoes. Put in a food processor, along with butter, maple syrup and sour cream, and mix to obtain the consistency of a purée. Put purée in a bowl, add chives, and gently mix together. Put roasted pecans on top and serve.

Maple Caramelized Vegetables6 to 8 servings2 medium carrots, peeled 2 medium parsnips, peeled 1 sweet potato, peeled 1 fist-size celery root, peeled 1 zucchini 1 tablespoon butter ¼ cup maple syrup ½ cup broiled whole pecans

Salt and pepper, to taste Pieces of maple sugar, to taste

Cut vegetables into julienne strips and steam all, except for zucchini, for 5 minutes. Add zucchini strips and steam for 2 more minutes. Remove from heat.

Melt butter in frying pan. Add maple syrup and cook for 1 minute while stirring.

Add vegetables and coat in maple sauce. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.

Serve vegetables with broiled pecans. Sprinkle with maple sugar pieces, if desired.

Merry Maple HOLIDAY MENUA


Be The Dinosaur: Life in the Creta-ceous Traveling Exhibition - Through January 5. Sci-Port Discover Center, Corner of Lake St. and Clyde Fant Park-way on the Shreveport riverfront. Tuesday - Friday*: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m; Saturday: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday: Noon - 6 p.m. Go beyond looking at dinosaur fossils and actually have the opportunity to become a dinosaur! Explore the mysteries and theo-ries of dinosaur behavior in an detailed environment so detailed that digital winds carry virtual odors and photorealistic flora grow. (318) 424-3466. www.sciport.org. Senior 60+ discount available.

FAMILY FUNBring the family for Hands-On Art.

Every Saturday 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. and De-cember 27 - 30 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. artspace, 710 Texas Street in downtown Shreveport. $7

FORUMDementia & Alzheimer's Forum

- Presented by the Pennington Biomedi-cal Research Center’s (PBRC) Institute for Dementia Research and Prevention. Tuesday, December 7. 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Seating and exhibits will be avail-able at 4:30 p.m. Summer Grove Baptist Church, 8924 Jewella Road, Shreveport. Free and open to the public. Seating is limited. Register early at idrp.pbrc.edu or call 1-877-276-8306.

GENEALOGY“The GENCOM Genealogy/Computer

Group will have their monthly meet-ing Sunday, December 5 at 2:00 at the

Hamilton Branch of the Shreve Memorial Library, 2111 Bert Kouns Industrial Loop, Shreveport. The program for the meeting will be “Producing a Family History Port-folio: A Few Features of Microsoft Word and Adobe Acrobat” presented by Philip Adderley, Certified Genealogist. The meeting is free and open to the public. For information call 318-773-7406.”

HOLIDAYChristmas in Roseland - Fridays, Sat-

urdays & Sundays through December19 . 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. American Rose Center, just off I-20, Exit 5 in Shreveport, LA. $5 per person or $20 per carload. Ages 2 and younger are free. Purchase tickets online at www.christmasinrose-land.org.

Tour of Trees - December 4, 5, 11, 12, 18 and 19; January 1 and 2. 1:00 p.m. or 3:00 p.m. Tower at the Oaks, 600 E. Flournoy Lucas Rd, Shreveport. Residents and staff invite you to enjoy a walking tour through this holiday wonderland. Reserve tour time by calling 212-8225 or request your tour time at oaksofla.com. No charge.

KREWE OF ELDERSChristmas party - Saturday, December

11, 2010, from 6:00 p.m., until 11:00 p.m., at the American Legion Hall located at 5315 South Lakeshore Drive, Shreve-port, Louisiana. Entertainment provided by A.J. Cascio and The Two Tone Band. Buffet dinner. Turkey, Dressing and Ham provided. Members and guests are asked to bring a casserole, covered dish or des-

DRIVER SAFETYAARP Driver Safety Program - A 4

hour classroom refresher course for drivers age 50+ which may qualify participants for an automobile insurance premium reduction or discount. Participants must preregister. $14 for non-AARP members; $12 for AARP members (AARP card required at registration). Correct change or checks payable to AARP accepted.• December 9 - 12:00 Noon. Bossier

Council on Aging, 706 Bearkat Dr., Bossier City. Contact: Kathy Thomas – 318-741-8302; Instructor: Ray Branton

ExHIBITThe Making of...The Fantastic Flying

Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore - Through Jan. 29. artspace, 710 Texas St. in down-town Shreveport. Monday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.; Tuesday thru Friday 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.; Saturday 12 - 5. For more info call (318) 673-6535 or visit artspaceshreve-port.com.

“We Provide indePendent Medicare SolutionS”

call: 318-213-6432 for More inforMation

or See uS onlineWWW.redriverinSuranceGrouP.coM

Get Up & Go!


sert. Free if bring food; $10.00 per person without food. Info. 635-4901, 752-9175.

MOVIE

Silver Screenings Matinee and Luncheon for Seniors - "An Affair to Remember" starring Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr. Dec. 14. 10:30 a.m. Robinson Film Center, 617 Texas in downtown Shreveport.. $5.75 for the film only; $14 for film and lunch. Call (318) 459-4122 to RSVP.

MUSICShreveport Symphony Orchestra

"Holday Pops" - Saturday, December 18. 7:30 p.m. at Riverview Theatre on Clyde Fant Parkway in downtown Shreveport. Single Ticket Prices: $42, $37, $27 - Adults; $17- Students Call 318-227-8863 for tickets. www.shreveportsymphony.com

Night of Praise - Presented by Price Harris Ministries. January 7 at 6:30 p.m. Calvary Baptist Church, 9333 Linwood Ave., Shreveport. Guy Hovis and Aaron Wilburn. Choir from Rose Park Baptist Church. The Needham's and The Allen Family. NO CHARGE.

Nena Wideman Piano Competition - Sponsored by the Shreveport Symphony Guild and hosted at the Hurley School of Music on the Centenary College campus. Preliminaries: December 3, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. and December 4, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Semifinals are Sunday, December 5, 1 p.m. - 6 p.m. Finals: Concert with Shreveport Symphony Orchestra at First Baptist Church, Shreveport on January 8 at 7:30 p.m. Free and open to the public. Contributions accepted at the door for the final round.

SUPPORT GROUPBereavement Support Group - Every

Thursday, 5:30 p.m. Hospice Family Room, 3300 Albert L. Bicknell Drive, Suite 3.


across1 Furtive utterance5 "the stranger"

novelist10 resided15 Jumble19 scale sequence20 stove supplier21 Fiber used for

fishing nets22 Org. concerned

with ergonomics23 school founded

by Henry Vi24 like a ruined

roux25 Nice thoughts?26 Palindromic

time27 1929 song co

written by Fats Waller

30 monetary policy maker, informally

32 "Gotta go!"33 time in an ad34 Broad lowlands36 23rd Greek

letter38 snatched

violently40 shell container?44 tenderloin cut50 mediation org.

established by FDr

52 express discontent

53 WWii photo site, briefly

54 Bout of indulgence

55 Capital of Delaware?

56 requiem57 record59 eleventh hour63 Name on a

compact64 Not snookered

by65 Fort erie's prov.66 Creator of

sublime lines67 Blossom bits68 longish coat70 False

appearance71 revered tibetan72 Firmly

established75 tapered

transport76 Court addition?77 Pain in the neck81 year's record82 "Just passing

through"84 Black, to a bard85 Blog comments86 Bit of work87 Helpless, in a

way89 Govt. smog

watchdog90 Hot pair91 Cheer

alternative92 Construction

site sight95 tickle pink97 Buckwheat

noodle99 many a bunt, on

a scorecard100 Doesn't split102 Colorful pet

store purchases106 reach one's

destination110 its members

travel in a world of their own

113 Gulf War defense weapon

116 morlock prey117 lowtech note

taker119 City on the Po120 Damaging

downpour121 Pull up stakes,

briefly122 muscat native123 you might get

a ticket for one124 Nerve

wracking exam, for some

125 Finely honed126 Big name in

russian ballet127 Has a quick

look128 Cross a

stream, say

Down1 Courthouse

entries2 "socrate"

By Gail Grabowski; Edited by Rich Norris and Joyce Nichols LewisTELL ME NO MORE

composer3 rock4 Oldstyle photo5 Colombian city6 Not to be missed7 Fast ballroom

dance8 release, in a way9 Greet informally10 Club with a big

head11 Dry riverbed12 Fix, as text13 alibi, maybe14 research site15 Wellmeaning

error16 since17 Flat, e.g.18 What a student

might raise28 Boom sites29 lots31 Fathers and

sons35 avoid a strike,

e.g.

37 selfdestruct39 Consumer

application41 Vital supply line42 silent films idol

Conrad __43 mini exhibits?44 everydog45 "Bingo!"46 tV series

filmed on Oahu47 Qom native48 Daring exploit49 Figure on a pay

stub51 Belarusian's

neighbor56 Judge58 Wartime

operation60 Get up on61 shoot the

breeze, e.g.62 american of

Japanese descent67 Curfew setters69 troubles

70 sacred river of india

71 Fruit high in vitamin C

72 Palatable73 Govt. security74 First name

in wilderness photography

75 Part of a hightech tangle

76 Not active78 alpine denizen79 "in your

dreams"80 tree trunk

bulge82 Prayer object83 "Platoon"

setting, for short88 slate and salon91 "Don't worry

about it"92 radioactive

sort?

93 swallow something hook, line and sinker

94 revue with fancy footwork

96 Old telecom giant

98 Holy roman emperor, 120915

101 Primitive projectile

103 itinerary104 Based on __

story105 unsportsman

like look107 Jeweled topper108 tale of an

ancient siege109 "ally mcBeal"

lawyer110 schmo111 s. Grant foe?112 lacquered

metalware

Solution on page 53


SUDOKU - Fill in the blank squares in the grid, making sure that every row, column, and 3 x 3 box includes all digits 1 through 9.

BlitzenChimney

CometCupid

DancerDasherDonner

elf

Giftsnicholas

north PolePrancerPresentsreindeerrooftoprudolph

SantaSleighSnowToysTree

VixenWorkshop

Solution on page 53


G Pold aGes

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business partners, for without

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resource would not be possible.Hill Crest Memorial

601 Hwy. 80 EastHaughton, LA 71037

(318) 949-9415

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Call today to receive a FREE Family Planning Portfolio

Have you made prearrangements for your family, or do you still have that to do?

Leaving these decisions to your children on the worst day of their lives is a

terrible emotional burden.

Ambulance Services

Balentine Ambulance Service (318) 222-5358

balentineambulance.com

Artificial limbs and Braces

Snell’s Orthotics and Prosthetics (318) 424-4167

snellsoandp.com

Associations and organizations

BluePrint Louisiana

(866) 483-3920blueprintlouisiana.org

Bossier Council on Aging

(318) 741-8302bossiercoa.org

Caddo Council on Aging

(318) 676-7900caddocoa.org

Sci-Port LA’s Science Center

(318) 424-3466sciport.org

Shreveport Little Theatre

(318) 424-4439shreveportlittletheatre.org

The Robinson Film Center

(318) 424-9090robinsonfilmcenter.org

The Best of Times (318) 636-5510

thebestoftimesnews.com

webster Council on Aging(318) 371-3056webstercoa.org

Care Providers

Comfort Keepers(318) 934-0090

comfortkeepers.com

elder Kare(318) 469-1711

elite Health Solutions

(318) 213-5483elitehealthsolution.com

Family Care Services

(318) 671-1799familycareservices.net

Louisiana CareTenders, LLC

(318) 868-3983louisianacaretenders.com

Cemeteries/funeral Homes

Centuries Memorial

(318) 686-4334centuriesmemorialfh.com

Hill Crest Memorial

(318) 949-9415hillcrestmemorialfh.com

Clinical research Studies

Dr. Gary Booker (318) 227-9600

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Counseling Services

HealthGuide(318) 780-4307

healthguidenurse.com

educational Courses

Bible Correspondence Course(318) 797-6333

LearningRX/Shreveport(318)671-0310

learningrx.com/shreveport

LearningRX/Bossier City(318) 742-8004

learningrx.com/shreveport

emergency response Systems

Acadian OnCall(800) 259-1234

acadianmedicalalertsystems.com

estate Planning/legal Services

Guerriero & Guerriero

(318) 841-0055theinjuryattorney.com

The elder Law Practice of

Joseph Gilsoul and Kyle Moore (318) 222-2100weems-law.com

entertainment Services

Singing with Larry Lafitte

(318)393-8287

Hearing Care Services

Shreve Hearing Aid Service (318) 797-7733

Home Health Care

(Medicare Certified)

Ark-La-Tex Home Health, Inc (318) 747-6180

arklatexhomehealth.com

United Home Health Care of Shreveport

(318) 798-7777unitedhomehealthcare.com

Hospice Care Providers

LifePath Hospice(318) 222-5711

lifepathhospicecare.com

St. Joseph Hospice (318) 222-8723

stjosephhospice.com

Home Infusion Services

IV Plus(318) 683-5139

Insurance

Arcadian Community Care(888)261-1061

arcadiancommunitycare.com

Cornerstone Financial Services(318) 861-8607

Humana

(800) 833-0632humana.com

Red River Insurance Group

(318) 213-6432redriverinsurancegroup.com

Vantage Health Plans

(888) 823-1910vhpla.com

Medical

KYPHON Balloon Kyphoplasty

(877) 459-7466kyphon.com

Physician Services

Dr. Gary Booker (318) 227-9600

jgarybookermd.com

Mid South Orthopaedics (318) 424-3400

Pierremont eye Institute

(318) 212-3937shelbyeye.com

Vision – SourceDr. Larry Chism(888) 243-2020

visionsource-longview.com



Psychiatric Care

Brentwood Hospital (318) 678-7500

psychiatricsolutions_brentwood.com

Red River Behavioral Center

(318) 549-2033

radio Stations

AM 1130 KwKH96.5 KVKI

Townsquare Media Radio Station

(318) 688-1130kwkhonline.com

Senior living options

Azalea estates Assisted Living

(318) 797-2408azaleaestates.com

Horizon Bay Assisted Living

(318) 747-2114horizonbay.com

Kingsley Place of Shreveport (318) 524-2100emeritus.com

NurseCare of Shreveport (318) 221-1983

nursecareofshreveport.com

Southwood Gardens Apartments

(318) 682-4022

Southwood Square Apartments(318) 671-1888

Summerfield estates

(318) 688-9525holidaytouch.com

Spas/Skin Care/Hair Care

Jeany Mitchell’s Skin

Technology (318) 347-3567

Sam Stroope, Hairstylist

(318) 868-8708

Telephone Book

User-Friendly Phone Book(318) 865-1280

www.shreveport247.com


Come to a free information session to find out more:

A health plan with a Medicare contract. A sales person will be present with information and applications. The benefit information provided herein is a brief summary, but not a comprehensive description of available benefits. For more information contact the plan. For accommodation of persons with special needs at sales meetings, call 1-800-219-7542, (TTY: 711), 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week.

Why Humana Gold Plus® is my Medicare plan.

H1951_GHA0B60HH File & Use 10202010 11/10

MonroeCatfish Cabin

1400 Louisville Ave.Dec. 1, 15 & 29

11 a.m.

ShreveportJohnny’s Catfish & Seafood

5130 Bert Kouns Industrial Loop

Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23 & 302 p.m.

ShreveportPiccadilly Cafeteria

1133 St. Vincent Ave.Dec. 2 & 16

11 a.m.

Bossier CityRyan’s – Bossier City

2400 Airline Hwy.Dec. 7 & 15

10 a.m.

MindenCissie’s Exacta Inn1404 Sibley Rd.

Dec. 7 & 219 a.m.

West MonroeGranny’s Country

Cooking Restaurant2400 Cypress St.

Dec. 7 & 2111 a.m.

BastropGranny’s Country

Cooking Restaurant1713 E. Madison

Dec. 9 & 23 at 11 a.m.

West MonroeWingate Inn & Suites

228 Blanchard St.Dec. 13 & 27

3 p.m.

Call today to reserve your seat:

1-800-219-7542 (TTY: 711)8 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week

“I think my favorite thing with Humana is that I have so much flexibility within the confines of an HMO… because we have such a huge selection of providers.”

Bill L. – Humana Gold Plus (HMO) Louisiana member

VHP429

1.888.823.1910www.VHP-Medicare.com

• No monthly premiums• No deductibles• $5 Primary Care office visit co-pays• X-rays & Lab covered 100% (No separate bills from Radiologists and Pathologists)• Worldwide emergency coverage• Dental and Vision coverage• Free generic drugs• Great local customer service

MEDICARE ADVANTAGE PLANS WITH:* Dental & VisionBenefits Now

Available

*There are several plans to choose from and all of these benefits may not be available in every Vantage Medicare Advantage plan. Vantage Health Plan is a health plan with a Medicare Advantage contract. You may be eligible to enroll in a Vantage Medicare Advantage plan if you reside in our service area and are currently entitled to Medicare Part A and enrolled in Part B. The benefit information provided herein is a brief summary, but not a comprehensive description of available benefits. Benefits, premiums, and co-payments/co-insurance amounts may change on January 1, 2012. For more information, contact Vantage at (888) 823-1910 or TTY (866) 524-5144, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. H5576_4002_01_CY11 FILE&USE 10/15/2010

... Vantage took such good care of

me and my medical bills...

Dr. Charlie Hennigan, SMS Shreveport, Louisiana1961 - 1965 Houston OilersAFL All Star

Why do I Love my

Vantage Medicare Advantage?

The Best of Times December 2010

Documents

Transcript of The Best of Times December 2010