Mature Arkansas

Mature Arkansas february 23, 2012

Running the little rock marathon Page 8

Italian ALSO in Best Food this issue page 6

Get a Good Night’s Sleep page 12

Shopping Tips: Homeowner’s Insurance page 14 MATURE ARKANSAS

febrUARY 23, 2012

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from th e editor

G U E ST E D I T O RI A L

Sleeping Well and Staying Home

Disdain for Vets Is Routine

By Anne Howard Wasson

By Cal Wasson, U.S. Army 1966-68

T

ey Stodola, think a Little Rock mayor can get to us? We’ve been screwed over by some of the biggest and best; Presidents even.

So your work to stop a vet center from locating on a shaky section of South Main really ain’t much. It’s not that it’s a hot property or anything. It’s just that the right people might have to drive by those smelly, crippled, nasty old veterans. Is this your best shot?

We’ve lived with this disdain for Vietnam vets, specially the broken ones, for four decades.

You’re not even close to former Secretary of State Robert McNamara, the architect of the Vietnam War, when he admitted in 1995 that he and the insiders knew the war was unwinnable from the start; South Vietnam was hopelessly corrupt; and the secret rationale for the war was to keep American industry at full tilt.

The 56,000 lost lives were just the cost of doing business. Yeah, top that Mayor.

At first, the news from the guys who made it back to the States was good: The drug checks are a joke and miniskirts are for real. Then in 1968, when U.S. casualties in Vietnam were at their highest, those letters turned dark.

“Stick your ribbons in your pocket, don’t say you were in-country and for God’s sake don’t wear your C.I.B” (Combat Infantryman’s Badge, the stamp that you were there). In other words, look like a clerk to avoid a stranger’s wrath. We had become the enemy. They didn’t like us then and on Little Rock’s Main Street they don’t like us now.

Most Vietnam vets are invisible. We have lower unemployment

his week, MATURE ARKANSAS starts a four-part series on sleep—the importance of sleep, symptoms of sleep problems, sleep studies and tips for getting a good night’s sleep…at any age.

In the second article of the series, Paige Parham will explain what to expect during a sleep study and what not to fear. Look for the second article in the March 8 issue.

Next week, the whole issue will be devoted to housing options.

We all want to live in our own home, but sometimes a change is needed or a new home better suits with revised retirement plans.

Considering all your housing options is an important part of planning your retirement. Decisions about housing may suddenly be forced upon you due to a change in health or the loss of a spouse.

Be ready for the unexpected by becoming familiar with your options.

Housing options vary widely--from completely independent living to completely dependent skilled nursing care in a nursing home.

Between these two ends of the continuum, there are numerous variations to suit every need and every retirement dream. And, remodeling your current home to make it easier to live in and care for is also an option.

Don’t miss a look at your housing options in next week’s Mature Arkansas, a magazine about YOUR future.

We Want To Hear From YOU MATURE ARKANSAS welcomes letters or emails from readers on any subject of interest to older Arkansans. Letters to columnists are also welcome. Email your letters to annewasson@arktimes.com and include “letter” on the subject line.

phone 501-375-2985

Subscriptions Available

Annual subscriptions to MATURE ARKANSAS are $60 per year, via the U.S. Postal Service. Send your check to: Mature Arkansas, P.O. Box 34010, Little Rock, AR 72203-4010. Allow three weeks for processing. Expect mail delivery to take about a week.

Mature Arkansas Publisher Alan Leveritt Editor Anne Wasson Art Director Mike Spain Assistant to the Editor Paige Parham Photographer Brian Chilson Director of sales Katherine Daniels Account Executive Erin Holland Production Manager Weldon Wilson Production Assistant Tracy Whitaker

ad Coordinators Roland Gladden Kelly Schlachter Graphic Artists Bryan Moats Katie Cook Controller Weldon Wilson Office Manager Angie Fambrough IT Director Robert Curfman Billing and Collections Linda Phillips Circulation Director Anitra Hickman

Mature Arkansas is published each week by Arkansas Times Limited Partnership, 201 East Markham Street, 200 Heritage Center West, P.O. Box 34010, Little Rock, Arkansas 72203, phone (501) 375-2985. Reproduction or use in whole or in part of the contents without the written consent of the publishers is prohibited. Manuscripts and artwork will not be returned or acknowledged unless sufficient return postage and a self-addressed stamped envelope are included. All materials are handled with due care, however, the publisher assumes no responsibility for care and safe return of unsolicited materials. All letters sent to Mature Arkansas will be treated as intended for publication and are subject to Mature Arkansas’ unrestricted right to edit or to comment editorially. All content © 2012 Mature Arkansas

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2 febrUARY 23, 2012 MATURE ARKANSAS

H

They didn’t like

us then and on

Little Rock’s Main

Street they don’t

like us now.

SeniorNet Keeps You Current

W

ould you like to know more about how to use your computer’s amazing capacity? SeniorNet can help. SeniorNet is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing adults 50 and over with access to computers and training, enabling them to enhance their professional and personal lives.

The program uses experienced volunteers who are familiar with computers to coordinate the program and teach the classes. SeniorNet students can get an introduction to basic computer usage, learn word processing, money-management software, genealogy, graphics, and using the Internet. There are classes for a wide range of interests, from beginners to those who want to learn a marketable job skill.

Classes meet twice a week for four weeks, beginning the first week of each month. There are 12 classes taught by Senior Net, with four being offered in any one month. March’s schedule is listed below.

Course fees are $45 for 16 hours of instruction, per individual, or $75 for couples attending together. There is a one-time $15 cost for student manuals. There is an initial $40 fee to become a member of

and make 20% more than our non-military peers. We have about the same drug abuse numbers as the rest of our age group. We sleep in our own beds. You won‘t notice us. It’s those pesky 75,000 that managed to come back severely wounded, those that lost arms and legs at three times the rate of World War II, those 15% who still suffer

from war-related PTSD. But don’t worry. There’s a much improved VA and some get disability checks.

We really don’t expect more.

Last week, reading at Hot Springs’ Poet’s Loft, retired Air Force Officer and published poet, 69-year old Steve Manning of Garland County, caught this gutwrenching reality:

IT’S OKAY TO ASK FOR DIRECTIONS With so many paths to choose, it’s easy to get lost on your way to a secure retirement. The right directions can make all the difference.

I can help you create a road map and choose the investment vehicles that align with your needs.

Call today for more information or to schedule a consultation.



Keep Sending the Checks Turn off the street light I’d like to get some sleep in my split-level cardboard box in the alley off Main Street USA. Just keep sending the checks.

Keep your colored ribbons Your certificates of praise parades on Main Street and fine speeches.

Just give me some proof that when I return I can have the good life at cheap prices. …Would you take me fishing in your bass boat or is that just for show?

With just one arm I can hold the rod but I cannot crank the reel.

Would you help me?

Give me some sign please.

Would you take me golfing at your country club?

I dearly loved the game.

I would walk slower now on my one leg.

Or would that delay the members who must hurry back to important business?

I used to love the game of bridge.

Now, with half a brain it takes me longer to count points.

Would you partner me, or would you find my slowness tiresome?

LPL Financial LPL Financial John L Ostner, ChFC®, CLU® John L Ostner, ChFC®, CLU®

Individual Wealth Manager Individual Wealth Manager AR Insurance Lic. #25859 301 Natural ResourcesAR Dr Insurance Lic. # 25859 #202 Little Rock, AR 72205 301 Natural Resources Dr, #202 (501) 228-5030 Fax Little Rock, AR 72205 (501) 228-2259 Office (501) 228-5030 Fax (800) 309-2259 Toll Free john.ostner@lpl.com (501) 228-2259 Office

(800) 309-2259 Toll Free john.ostner@lpl.com

Member FINRA/SIPC

Member FINRA/SIPC

MKT-06075-0410 Tracking #638101 MKT-06075-0410 Tracking #638101

Feb. 24-26 Statehouse Convention Center, LR

On second thought, never mind.

Just keep sending the checks.

From Camera of the Mind, Stephen Manning, Authorhouse, 2011b

SeniorNet and a $30 annual fee thereafter. However, membership is not required to register for classes. The annual membership provides access to any local SeniorNet Classroom Learning Center. Fees for individual classes vary at each location.

March Computer Classes March classes at SeniorNet at the Reynolds Institute at UAMS in Little Rock are:.

Mon. & Wed., 10:00 AM – Introduction to Computers Mon. & Wed., 1:00 PM – Digital Photography Tues. & Thur., 10:00 AM – Basic Spreadsheet (Excel) Tues & Thur., 1:00 PM – Photo Editing Parking is free and convenient. The courses are taught at the Reynolds Institute on Aging at UAMS, Room 1155. To register, call 501- 603-1262 or email Joan McKinstry at seniornetjoan2@gmail.com There is also a SeniorNet program in Hot Springs at St. Joseph’s Mercy Health Center. Contact Coordinator Hank Clemente at 501-622-1121 or visit http://www.hotspringsseniornet.net

Don’t miss presentations by nationally known experts Chris Olsen & Kelly D. Norris GOLD SPONSORS LRCVB Steve & Merilyn Tilley Clark Trim & Henrik Thostrup

PLATINUM SPONSOR

Fri.-Sat 10-6 Sun.10-4 Free parking at Dickey-Stephens, $1 shuttle to show.

For more info: arflowerandgarden.org or call 501-821-4000.

BRONZE SPONSORS Allan & Carol Mendel River Valley Horticultural Products

MATURE ARKANSAS

febrUARY 23, 2012

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☛ The mind is its own place, and in itself can make a Heav’n of Hell, a Hell of Heav’n. — John Milton ☛

CALEN DAR P I C KS

Shows Feature Flowers, Gardens, Home Fix-up Ode to Joy, Carmina Burana, Chinese Culture

By Paige Parham

Feb. 24- 26 – Home Builders Association Home Show at Verizon Arena, North Little Rock, Fri. noon – 7:00 PM, Sat. 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Sun. 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Come see new and innovative products, including green and energy efficient products and services; workshops; demonstrations; and prizes. Admission $8; free for children 12 and under.

Feb. 24 - 26 – “We All Hear Voices” by Benton physician-playwright Sam Taggart at the PUBLIC Theatre, 616 Center Street, Little Rock; Fri. and Sat. at 7:30 PM, Sun. at 2:00 PM. Tickets are $14, seniors and members of the military are $12, children under six are free. Call 410-2283 or visit www. ctlr-act.org for tickets or information.

Feb. 25-26 - Arkansas Symphony Orchestra presents “Ode to Joy,” Robinson Center Music Hall, Little Rock; Sat., 8:00 PM, Sun., 3:00 PM. Actor George Takei narrates and Director Philip Mann conducts the ASO in their performance of Schoenberg’s “A Survivor from Warsaw” and Beethoven’s “Symphony No. 9 in D Minor.” For tickets and additional information, visit www.arkansassymphony.org or call 666-1761.

Feb. 25-26 - Arkansas Glasshopper Inc. Depression Era Glass and Pottery Show at the Hall of Industry, State Fairgrounds, 2600 Howard Street, Little Rock; Sat. 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Sun. 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM. This must-shop destination for collectors

Feb. 23 – James Earl Jones at Reynolds Performance Hall, University of Central Arkansas, Conway. The most distinctive voice in show business today salutes Black History Month with“Shakespeare in the Minority Key.”Tickets are $10-$40. For more details: www.uca.edu/reynolds or phone 450-3406.

Feb. 24 – Mardi Gras in Arkansas, Next Level Events, 1400 West Markham, Little Rock, 8:00 PM. Tickets-$20 in advance; $25 at the door. Rivaling anything you can find on Bourbon Street, “Mardi Gras in Arkansas” brings the best of the Big Easy to Little Rock with live music, complimentary wine and beer, cash bar and beads galore. For more information call 501-666-8816 or e-mail JPedigo@arclubs.org

4 febrUARY 23, 2012 MATURE ARKANSAS

will feature dealers from several states. Special displays of rare glass and glass identification are also on the schedule. Admission is $5 and is valid for both days. For more details call 868-4969.

Feb. 26 – Little Rock Wind Symphony presents“Carmina Burana”at Second Presbyterian Church, 600 Pleasant Valley Drive, Little Rock, 3:00 PM. Michael Chance conducts and Jamie Lipton dazzles on a theme and variations for euphonium. Sponsored by Bob and Jo Ann McQuade. Admission is $10, $8 for seniors, students are free. For more information, visit www.lrwindsymphony.org or call 666-0777.

Feb. 26 – Party Like a Hollywood Star Academy Awards Party, Ford Theatre, 1020 Front Street, Conway, 5:00 10:00 PM. All the glitz and glam of Hollywood

comes to Downtown Conway. This Academy Awards watch party will feature a red carpet, paparazzi and champagne. Admission is $35 per person; $60 a couple, in advance; $45 per person at the door. All proceeds benefit the UCA Digital Filmmaking Feature Film Fund. For tickets, go to www.movieparty.eventbrite.com Feb. 27- 28 - Shen Yun, Robinson Center Music Hall, Little Rock, 7:00 - 9:30 PM. For 5,000 years in China, culture was heralded as a divine gift. Based in New York, Shen Yun Performing Arts seeks to revive China’s glorious and once-majestic traditions by creating a production worthy in its beauty of this noble history. Sure to enrich your life in powerful, lasting ways. Tickets: $50-$120 at any Ticketmaster location; charge by phone at 800-745-3000; Celebrity Attractions, 244-8800 or online at www.ticketmaster.com. For more information visit www.shenyun2012.com

Feb. 24- 26 – Arkansas Flower and Garden Show, Statehouse Convention Center, 7 Statehouse Plaza, Little Rock. Fri. and Sat., 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Sun. 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. The 21st annual event includes educational gardening seminars, amazing indoor garden displays, over 100 booths with garden-related items for sale, a juried flower show, children’s activities, a professional florist’s design competition, and a silent auction benefiting scholarship and community beautification grant programs. Tickets-$8 for adults, $6 for seniors 60+ and members of the military; free for children under 12. Parking is free at Dickey-Stephens Park, and you can take the shuttle for $1. For more information, call 821-4000 or visit arflowerandgardenshow.org

Feb. 28 – The Science Café will explore “The Science of Sleep,” 7:00 – 9:00 PM at Vieux Carre/The Afterthought, 2721 Kavanaugh Blvd., Little Rock. Speakers will be sleep experts Dr. Raghu Reddy, Dr. Edgar Garcia-Rill and Dr. David Davila. Admission is free and food and beverages will be available to purchase. Can’t attend? Listen to KUAR-FM89 at 6:06-6:30 PM, Feb. 28, for insights on this topic by one of the panel members.

Feb. 29 - Brown Bag Lunch Lecture – “African-American Fraternal Headstones in Arkansas,” at the Old State House Museum, 300 West Markham, Little Rock, noon -1:00 PM. Dr. Blake Wintory will discuss fraternal organizations and Arkansas’ African-American cemeteries that are dotted with monuments from fraternal organizations like the Supreme Royal Circle of Friends, Knights and Daughters of Tabor, and Mosaic Templars of America. Admission is free.

Bring a sack lunch; beverages are provided.

For more information visit www.oldstatehouse. com, or call 324-9685.

CORRECTION

The Pruning Workshop at the UAPB Extension Complex will be held March 1 (not March 10), at 9:30 AM. We regret the error in information that was provided to us.

MATURE ARKANSAS

febrUARY 23, 2012

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☛ Where words fail, music speaks — Hans Christian Andersen ☛

Feb. 24-26 – FOCAL Three-Day Used Book Sale, Main Library, 100 Rock Street, Little Rock. Fri. and Sat., 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Sun. 1:00 – 5:00 PM. Paperbacks are $.50 and hardbacks are $1. FOCAL members receive 50% off “gently read” books and 25% off new merchandise at River Market Books and Gifts. Memberships are available at the door. Call 918-3000 or visit cals.org for more information.

☛ It takes two to speak the truth—one to speak and another to hear. — Henry David Thoreau ☛

Restaurant g u ide n By bob wood

Vesuvio: A Pricey Non-Bistro L

ast weekend, a friend and I went to Vesuvio Bistro for dinner. The Italian restaurant violates at least two known conventions: first, any restaurant in a motel can’t be good, and, second, it’s not a “bistro.”

Vesuvio IS good. Not great, but good. And, it resides within the Best Western “Premier” Governors Suites (what’s a “governor’ suite”?) on Merrill Drive in west Little Rock.

Regarding the “bistro” thing, let me indulge in some quick pedantry.

Though folks disagree, the origin of the term “bistro” likely occurred during the Russian occupation of Paris after the Napoleonic Wars.

The soldiers would go into a restaurant and say “Hurry, hurry.” The Russian pronunciation of the word is “bystro.” So, a “bistro” became a place where you could get a quick bite to eat, something to drink and get out.

Vesuvio isn’t a bistro, but of course neither are the countless Vesuvio’s Tilapia Piccata other “bistros” in central Arkansas.

These places seem to think that adding Pasta entrées range from $13 to $19, fish “bistro” to their name makes them somehow and steak dishes go up from there to $30. more sophisticated. Mais non, monsieur.

Everything is á la carte. Wines are available The entrance to Vesuvio Bistro is inside by the glass or bottle, and single-servings the motel/hotel/suites, down a short flight range from $7 to $12 for relatively modest of stairs. Folks with mobility issues should pours. You can check out their menu at www. call ahead for an alternative. The interior of vesuviobistro.com the restaurant is quite nice, with white tableOur appetizer of sautéed Shitake mushcloths, dimmed lighting, an attractive bar and rooms over grilled polenta was excellent — ignorable artwork on the walls. We went on maybe the best thing we ate. As an entrée, I a Saturday night and the place was packed. had a rigatoni “special,” and my friend had They accept reservations, and calling ahead the ostentatious Spaghetti Chitarra prepared is definitely a good idea on weekends. at table-side. The latter consists of noodles I had a Manhattan before dinner. Oddly, mixed with sautéed Shitake mushrooms this is a cocktail that can be easily messed swirled inside an enormous, hollowed-out up. But, the bartender at Vesuvio seems to wheel of Parmesan cheese, then put on your be good, and it was very tasty. They have a plate with a flourish. Way too much drama wide selection of “designer” Martinis and for me, but a sure crowd-pleaser for the they’re all atmospherically priced at $10.50. expense-account set.

This segués nicely to my principal complaint I also happen to think that an Italian about Vesuvio — it’s sort of expensive. restaurant should make all its own pasta.

As I said earlier, the food quality on our It’s not that hard, and fresh pasta is very, single visit ranged from very good to OK. very different from commercial pasta. The

6 febrUARY 23, 2012 MATURE ARKANSAS

chef Mario Batali once said that, in true Italian cooking, “It’s all about the pasta; not the sauce.” Evidently, Vesuvio makes a few pastas for their specials, but relies on foodservice pasta for the vast majority of their dishes.

So, let me sum this up: my experience at Vesuvio was a good one. It likely has the best Italian food in central Arkansas, but, at the same time, it doesn’t have much competition.

The food is tasty, ranging from very good to OK. Everything is á la carte, cocktails and wines are pricey, so your dinner bill will add up quickly — ours was $136.89 with tip.

And, maybe that’s not bad. But, as I paid my bill, I couldn’t help remembering that, in December, I’d had much better--and less expensive-- Italian meals in New York City.

Vesuvio Bistro, 1501 Merrill Drive, Little Rock; phone 501-225-0500.

Mr. Wood, a Little Rock designer and writer, is often hungry.

“Adding life to days, when days can no longer be added to life.”

Medicare

Man

Documents Needed Before Dementia Q. My Dad has dementia. I’m worried there may come a time when he won’t make good decisions about his health. How do I become the authorized person to make these decisions?

A. It’s best for your father to make his own decisions while he is competent and to decide for himself who should manage healthcare decisions if he’s not able to do so. He should consider appointing a healthcare proxy through a written and signed document like a medical power of attorney, durable power of attorney for health, or the appointment of a healthcare agent. This document would allow the appointed person to make medical decisions when he is no longer able to make them himself.

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progresses, what papers do we need to file in the event I need tocare take Providing in a 50 mile radius around each location. over?

A.. A power of attorney document lets your loved one appoint someone Annual subscriptions to MATURE as his “agent” or “attorney in fact” to manage his financial affairs. Issues ARKANSAS are $60 per year, via like Medicare and nursing home payments are considered financial the U.S. Postal Service. Send your check matters. Provide copies of the power of attorney to Medicare and all to: Mature Arkansas, P.O. Box 34010, medical providers in addition to the healthcare proxy paperwork.

MEDI CAR E MAT T E R S n By S all y Jo hnson

Cholesterol and Your Heart

O

ur third Q&A with Dr. Doug Holloway of Arkansas Cardiology explains why high cholesterol is one of the leading contributors to heart disease.

Q: What is cholesterol and how does it affect the heart?

Dr. Holloway: Cholesterol, made by our bodies, is a building block for cell walls. The liver produces all we need — we really don’t need any in our diet. It’s a waxy material that wants to deposit in our arteries and clog them, leading to heart attack or stroke.

Q: What qualifies as high cholesterol?

Dr. H: You should focus less on total cholesterol and instead look at LDL, the “bad” cholesterol part of your total cholesterol reading.

Someone with established heart disease or diabetes needs an LDL level below 70; the rest of us should strive for below 100.

Q: How often should I have my cholesterol checked?

Dr. H: Have cholesterol checked every two or three years, assuming you are not being treated for a heart condition or other health problems.

Q: How can I lower my cholesterol level?

Dr. H: Avoid saturated fats by not eating a lot of red meat or fried foods. Work on getting down to your ideal body weight and eating the right things. If you cannot get your cholesterol down, medications can be used.

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Little Rock, AR 72203-4010. Allow three weeks for processing. Expect mail delivery to take about a week.

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Mature Arkansas 24, 2011

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MAYORYS PAT HA ENJOYS HIS JOB

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MATURE ARKANSAS

febrUARY 23, 2012

7

“W

You’re

Never too Old hen Betty Williams crossed the finish line of her first marathon (26.2 miles), her children and grandchildren presented her with 26 roses and two rosebuds for each mile she

”

to Start 20% of runners over age 50

By Erica Sweeney

photography by

brian chilson

completed. n She was 66, and not only was it her first marathon, but it was the first-ever Little Rock Marathon.

walk and run the course, n Since then, Williams has participated in the full or half but Elaine says they “walk a little more every year.”

Little Rock Marathon every year. This year, to celebrate The Gimblets are both 64, and have been runners her recent 75th birthday and the marathon’s 10th annivermost of their lives. Ron sary, she plans to run and walk the full course once again. began running in 1978; Elaine in 1983. They have The 2012 Little Rock Marathon is run over 30 marathons each.

March 3-4, and all events, except the 5K, Bill Rahn, 60, says he was always active are sold out. and first began running long distances In 2011, there were 1,584 runners and when his three children were involved walkers age 50 and older participating in in youth soccer. He often traveled with the full Little Rock Marathon, half marathem to events and rather than “standing thon, relay and 5K, according to Sharon around,” he went on long runs.

Lee, the marathon’s media contact. That’s Rahn was planning to run the Dallas about 20% of all participants. The oldest Marathon, but when he heard about the person to participate was 87, Lee says. first Little Rock Marathon, he signed up Williams says she was always a walker immediately. He has since run the maraand had always wanted to do a marathon thon every year.

57, says she walked “sporadically” when she was younger. In 2004, they decided to commit to running and walking the marathon. “The more we walked, it just made me want to run,” Joy says. Lynn says lowering his cholesterol was his incentive for becoming a regular runner and walker.

Lou Peyton began running in 1968 and has run many marathons and half marathons over the years. At 68, she’s running the half Little Rock Marathon this year.

Training goals Setting goals is important for marathoners.

Many first-timers, especially those over 50, simply hope to finish the race. Later, their goals become more ambitious, says Hobbit Singleton, who along with her husband, Tom, are the official Little Rock Marathon coaches.

“We have to do what we can, for as long as we can. Just getting out there is winning.” but didn’t know how to train. When she saw an article in the newspaper about the first Little Rock Marathon and its training program, she signed up.

Ron and Elaine Gimblet have participated in the full Little Rock Marathon every year since it began. They both 8 febrUARY 23, 2012 MATURE ARKANSAS

Lynn and Joy Rockenbach plan to take part in their fifth half Little Rock Marathon this year. During the race, the Rockenbachs alternate between five miles of running and three miles of walking.

Lynn, who will be 70 soon, says he was a walker for about 20 years, and Joy,

Williams’ goal for her first marathon was just to finish. This year, she hopes to complete the marathon in less than seven hours. Williams says this will be her last full marathon, but plans to continue doing 5Ks and half marathons.

The Rockenbachs’ goal for their first

RIGHT: At 75, Betty Williams will be competing in the Little Rock Marathon, March 3-4 ON THE COVER: Elaine and Ron Gimblet, who have been in every Little Rock Marathon, shown here training for the 10th.

half marathon was also just to finish. This year, they want to complete the half marathon in two hours, 55 minutes. “We’ve gotten faster as we’ve incorporated more running,” Joy says.

Elaine Gimblet says this year she would like to “break six hours and not have to work too hard.” Peyton hopes to run the half marathon in under two and a half hours, but says she “won’t be devastated” if she doesn’t make it.

Rahn, owner of Snap Fitness in Little Rock, says training for a marathon takes a lot of work.

“You can’t get up the morning of the race and run. You have to put in time,” he says. “If you’re competitive, it keeps you focused on your goal.”

Rahn’s goals have progressed since he first began the marathon. His first goal was to finish in less than four hours, and then to qualify for the Boston Marathon, which he plans to run in April. His best time, 3:21, was in last year’s Little Rock Marathon, and he hopes to beat that this year.

Couch potato to marathoner The Singletons, both 58, provide a free 26-week program, where they can “take someone straight off the couch and build up to a marathon,” says Hobbit.

The program includes a schedule that builds incrementally over time. Runners and walkers complete shorter distances on their own on weekdays. On Saturdays, the group meets to run or walk longer distances. Hobbit sends out a weekly training email that includes 1,400 names, but not everyone shows up each week, she says.

“It’s a big time commitment to train, but you are never too old to start,” says Hobbit, who is a marathon walker, but does not usually participate in the Little Rock Marathon. Instead, she enjoys watching the people she’s helped train cross the finish line. “Little Rock is not my race. It’s theirs,” she says.

“We like helping people get through a race,” Hobbit says. Rahn says the Singletons’ group is a great place for new runners to start. He joins the Saturday group as part of his training.

The Rockenbachs run four miles during MATURE ARKANSAS

febrUARY 23, 2012

9

Bill Rahn: “You have to put in your time...it keeps you focused on your goal.”

running and climbing, we need yoga to stretch everything out again.”

McDaniel says runners over 50 should be concerned with injury prevention and maintaining flexibility. He says running can be hard on the body, and that people over 50 often take up to five times longer to recover from injury than younger runners. “Flexibility decreases as we age, and it is the central thing that keeps us from injury,” he says.

Why they do it

weekdays and join the Singletons’ group on Saturdays. Three days a week they do weight training.

Certified Personal Trainer Jeff McDaniel privately trains runners for the marathon.

He says cross training is just as important as running the distance. Runners should focus just

as much on building core and overall strength, as well as cardio endurance, he says.

The Gimblets run five miles, four times a week and longer runs on weekends. They also rock climb at a gym or outside three times a week and do yoga twice a week. Elaine says, “As much as we tighten our muscles with

Running and walking bring a great deal of camaraderie, says Ron. People often train with partners or in groups, which also creates accountability. Elaine says it helps “if you know someone is waiting for you and will give you all kinds of grief it you don’t show up.”

Elaine says she loves having someone to talk to when she runs and walks. A running buddy is a close relationship. She and Ron were running partners for five years before they started dating. They have been married for 23 years.

“My rule is I don’t run so fast that I can’t talk at the same time,” Elaine says.

Training can be very peaceful, says Williams, who gets up at 4:30 AM to run and walk three days a week. “You see so many beautiful sunrises,” she says. “It feels good to get out.

I like the quiet time, seeing the flowers and birds. It keeps my head on straight and starts my day.”

Elaine says she’s “toying with becoming just a walker,” adding that even if running becomes too difficult as people age, they should keep walking. “Keep doing something that’s fun, if running becomes not so fun,” she advises.

“When I was younger, I said I would run until they peel me off the asphalt,” Ron adds.

Running is less time consuming than other sports, Ron says: “You just put on a pair of shoes and shorts and you’re out the door.”

Peyton says, you can do it anywhere at any time. And, “you don’t have to be fast,” Williams says. “Anyone can be a runner.”

“I like the quiet time, seeing the flowers and birds. It keeps my head on straight and starts 10 febrUARY 23, 2012 MATURE ARKANSAS

Joy and Lynn Rockenbach (right) will be running their fifth Little Rock Marathon next month. Joy’s advice: “...put one foot in front of the other and think positive.”

“It becomes habitual,” Rahn says. “The question becomes, what time am I going to run, not am I going to run.”

Running and walking have myriad health benefits, and research affirms that the more active we are as we age, the better we feel, both mentally and physically.

“A lot of people have health problems because they don’t get off the couch, except to go to the table. We don’t want to live like that,” says Joy, who works with obesity prevention programs at the Arkansas Department of Health and Department of Education.

“You can be in a bad mood and come back from a run and whatever was bothering you, isn’t anymore,” says Peyton.

“When you run long distances,” Rahn says. “It gives you a chance to think about stuff and clear your head. It’s good to get time to yourself.”

“It changes your head,” Lynn says. “You learn that you can take yourself home and live well in the world. And, it’s fun.”

“It makes me feel good, makes me feel young to get out there,” says Peyton, who works at Easy Runner. “I’m tricking myself but it works. We have to do what we can, for as long as we can. Just getting out there is winning.”

The actual marathon day can bring a mixed bag of emotions. Williams says she’s a “nervous wreck,” adding, “It makes me feel so good to be able to do it. If I keep going, I can make it,” she adds.

Elaine says she gets excited and looks forward to seeing “everyone I’ve ever known in the running community.”

Joy says during the half marathon, her competitiveness “kicks in and it’s a sad thing to see.”

“I don’t think logistically,” she says. “I think about who’s there that I know. I get caught up in the excitement, which isn’t always good. I rely on Lynn to pace us. I run smarter if I do what he does.” Lynn says he primarily thinks about the actual course.

“Just get in your head, put one foot in front of the other and think positive,” says Joy.

my day.”

Tips for New Marathoners • Don’t do too much too soon. Start slow and gradually build on it, says Hobbit Singleton, official Little Rock Marathon coach. “You can go out three miles, but you have to get back,” she says.

• Set realistic goals. Don’t set yourself up for failure, says Singleton.

• Perform three to five minutes of flexibility and myofascial, or tissue quality, exercises before a run, says Certified Personal Trainer Jeff McDaniel. High knee jogging (or high knee marching) increases stride and helps with hip mobility, and light jogging uphill naturally improves stride, he says.

• Avoid overtraining. “Make the easy days, really easy,” McDaniel says.

• Mix it up. Cross training, such as swimming, biking or yoga, is important, says McDaniel.

• Keep up strength training. McDaniel says lean muscle mass helps prevent injury and core workouts “help stride and prevent lower back pain.”

• Take care of your feet. Gary Smith, 70, owner of Easy Runner, says a good shoe should fit your style of running and be sized correctly, which can be done at a specialty store. “It’s so important to have a shoe that works.”

• Talk to your doctor. Individuals new to running should visit their doctor before beginning a training program.

• For training schedules for all lengths of races go to: http://littlerockmarathon.racesonline.com/ index.cfm?fuseaction=site display&page_id=4849 MATURE ARKANSAS

febrUARY 23, 2012

11

health n B y Pa ig e Par ham

Getting a Good Night's Sleep EDITOR’S NOTE: This is the first in a four-part series on sleep—what sleep issues are normal and what issues need medical attention. Next week, we’ll cover what happens during a sleep study—what to expect and what not to fear.

I

The optimal amount of sleep an adult needs varies due to a number of factors. It is generally thought that if daytime sleepiness is present, the person is not sleeping enough or getting a good quality of sleep. The accepted amount of sleep for adults, per the National Sleep Foundation’s website www.sleepfoundation. org, is generally seven to eight hours per night.

t’s normal for sleeping patterns to change as we age. According to the National Sleep Foundation, some of us need less and less sleep as the years pass; others can stay up Symptoms of poor sleep later and wake earlier with no ill effects. It’s Common symptoms of sleep deprivation also common for the sleep that we do get to include memory loss, fatigue, difficulty in be of a lesser quality. Tossing and turning to find a comfortable position, breathing problems, restlessTypical room used leg syndrome, and sleep apnea are for a sleep study. common complaints among aging sleepers.

Dr. Paul E. Wylie, director of the Arkansas Center for Sleep Medicine, says, “Daytime sleepiness is the most common symptom that someone has a sleep problem.” Wylie says there are more than 50 different sleep disorders, with unique treatments for each kind. “The most common types of sleep disorders seen in aging people are insomnia, sleep apnea and snoring. Insomnia is usually treated by a primary care doctor, but for problems like apnea and snoring, patients are referred to a specialized sleep clinic,” he says. concentrating, decreased sex drive, and feeling Sleep essential to health sleepy or even falling asleep in inappropriate No matter what your age, getting a goodsituations. night’s sleep is the most important compoGetting too little sleep can heighten your nent of taking care of yourself. It is a necessary risk of cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes process for life to continue. While sleeping, and other physical ailments. Weight gain is also the body enters a heightened anabolic state, linked to poor quality sleep. Wound healing where the body is repaired or built up and is slower when sleep problems are present. obtains energy for growth. The immune system There are also psychological symptoms associis rejuvenated during sleep. Your brain and body will not function properly if you cannot consistently get a minimum number of hours of good quality sleep. “Enough” sleep is defined as the amount of sleep you need to stay awake and alert at all points of the day, until bedtime.

“Enough” sleep is defined as the amount of sleep you need to stay awake and alert at all points of the day

12 febrUARY 23, 2012 MATURE ARKANSAS

ated with a lack of sleep, including depression, alcoholism or drug abuse and bipolar disorder.

About 90% of adults diagnosed with depression suffer from sleep difficulties.

Treatment options There are many options available for the diagnosis and treatment of sleep-related problems.

Your doctor will consult with you, gather your medical history, help you set up sleep logs at home, perform screening studies for issues like apnea, and give you a better idea of your specific sleep issues. Your doctor can refer you to a specialized clinic for testing, if necessary.

Wylie says he can diagnose and treat patients with apnea at his clinic but often finds underlying physical problems as well.

“Sleep apnea and snoring are both related to weight,” he explains.

“If a person is overweight, their airways can become constricted and cause problems with breathing. Treatment for this type of disorder is usually prescribing the use of a positive air pressure machine (often referred to as a CPAP.) This device forces air into the respiratory system so the patient gains a more restful sleep,” he explains.

Sleep disorders such as insomnia can usually be treated by a patient’s primary care doctor. The use of sleep medications is sometimes advised, but only in the short-term—less than six weeks. Wylie says he does not like using drugs because they lose effectiveness and suppress certain brain functions.

Wylie says cognitive behavioral therapy is often a useful treatment. This treatment seeks the root cause of sleep problems by exploring the patient’s thoughts, behaviors and sleeping environment. “Insomnia is generally a behavioral problem; therefore the treatment would depend on the patient’s pre-bedtime activities and habits,” he adds.

leep medicine is a branch of medicine specializing in diagnosis and treatment of sleep disturbances. If you feel your lack of quality sleep is becoming a health issue, it is probably time to speak to your doctor about treatment options.

The following sleep clinics serve central Arkansas: • The Arkansas Center for Sleep Medicine, Dr. Paul Wylie, Little Rock; 501- 661-9191 or www.arsleep.com Services include evaluation and treatment of all types of sleep disorders, in-clinic sleep studies, prescriptive devices such as positive air pressure machines and FDA-approved mouthpieces.

• Arkansas Neurology, Dr. Timothy Freyaldenhoven and Dr. Keith Schluterman, Conway; 501- 932-0352 Services include diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders such as narcolepsy, insomnia, sleep apnea and restless leg syndrome.

Overnight sleep studies in the sleep lab include diagnosis and treatment.

• Baptist Health Sleep Clinic, Dr. Jason Williams and Dr. David Davila, Little Rock; 501- 212-1902 or www.baptist-health. com/neurology/sleep/ Services include in- and outpatient consultations, comprehensive long-term follow-up for all sleep disorders, sleep logs, long-term sleep/wake monitoring, sleep apnea screening, adult polysomnography, multiple sleep latency testing and maintenance of wakefulness tests for truck drivers and pilots.

R PICKS CALENDA

By Paige Parham

CELEBRATES your achievements and inspirational stories

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Mature Arkansas ➧

Sleep Clinics in Central Arkansas

URE MKAATN SAS AR TS SENIOR CPEE ENHAN S’ SENIOR HEALTH Page 8

CITY CK LITTLE ROCK JOAN ADCO DIRECTOR , ANIMAL YEAR. WITH RAIN DOG OF THE VILLAGE BRIAN CHILSON PHOTO BY

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DECEM BER

8, 2011

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EDUCATES with health and consumer news to stay healthy, independent, and ready to embrace new beginnings and opportunities

If you would like your event, classes or volunteer opportunities included in our Calendar, email maturecalendar@arktimes.com or call Paige Parham at 501-375-2985.

• Baptist Health Sleep Disorders Center, Dr. Tim Cook, Dr. Gary Goza, Dr. Stan Kellar and Dr. Charles Schultz, North Little Rock; 501-202-3400 or http://www.baptist-health.com/neurology/sleep/ Services include comfortable, hotel-like ambiance with technologically advanced polysomnographic recording capability, study interpretations and post-study patient care.

• The Sleep Clinic of Arkansas, Dr. Gary Goza and Dr. David Anderson, Little Rock, 501- 312-0070 or www.gozasleep.com Services include diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders such as sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, narcolepsy and insomnia.

• St. Joseph’s Mercy Sleep Center, Dr. Nizar Suleman and Dr. Eyad Abochale, Hot Springs; 501- 622-1000 or www.mercy.net Accredited by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, the center is a one-stop shop for patients experiencing sleep disturbances.

Spending the night in the sleep lab is much like staying in a hotel and followed by development of an individual treatment plan at the follow-up visit.

• University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), Dr. Raghu Reddy, Little Rock; 501- 686-8000 or http://www. uamshealth.com/?id=5596&sid=1 The UAMS Ear, Nose and Throat clinic encompasses a wide range of doctors and specialties, including sleep disorders such as sleep apnea and snoring. A doctor’s referral is not necessary at this clinic unless your insurance requires one.

shop local support our community MATURE ARKANSAS

febrUARY 23, 2012

13

INSURANCE CHECKUP n By Jay Bradford, Arkansas Insurance Commissioner

Homeowner's Insurance Shopping Tips I

f you are shopping for homeowners insurto market their products: direct marketing, ance, premium quotations are a useful tool to independent agents or exclusive agents. compare different companies’ products. When Direct marketers sell insurance over the asking for price quotations, it is imperative that Internet and by telephone. In some cases, you give the same information to each agent or consumers can save money with direct company. To give an accurate quote, the agent marketers because these companies do not or company will usually request the following have to pay insurance agents a commission to information: Description of the house, its sell their policies. Companies can pass along distance from the nearest fire department and some of these savings to the consumer. fire hydrant, square footage, security devices, Independent agents represent several a picture of the house and the coverages and companies. Therefore, you can obtain quotes limits wanted by the home owner. from more than one company from one agent.

The New York Times Syndication Sales Corporation Not all insurance companies use insurExclusive agents are used by some insurance 500 Seventh Avenue, New York, N.Y. 10018 ance agents to sell their products. For Insurance companies.

These companies call their agents Information Call: 1-800-972-3550 For Release Thursday, February 23, 2012 Formethods Release Friday, February 17, 2012force. Exclusive agents can companies generally use one of three an exclusive agency

Independent agents represent several companies.

Therefore, you can obtain quotes from more

only offer coverage from the company they represent.

Therefore, you can only obtain a quote from one company for each exclusive agent with whom you speak. Some consumers prefer to pay an additional premium for the opportunity to have a local agent available to them.

Sometimes, exclusive agents may work for a lower rate of commission than independent agents. This is Edited by Will Shortz No. 0119 0113 because companies do not have to give the agent an incentive to write 1 2 3 4 5 6 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 of Highlands Across 31 of “Star 57 1 2 3 4 5 6 77 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 58 Bit Answer that Across 35 George What twisty their product over another compaTrek” attire 1 *Rumpus avoids arrows warn 15 16 1 Eaters of halal 15 16 58 Attack from 32 The Wildcats of ny’s product. The lower commission answering 9 Spanning drivers of food above the N.C.A.A. 17 18 17 structure, especially on commissions 15 Some 59 Writer’s field 37 Figure Bring into 34 on being 61 Something to 8 Like many mall 16 *Excitement 19 20 21 settle for renewal business, can represent 18 19 coat 38 Scotland’s Hit film directed fixtures?

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A TL EI ME N PMRE YM EV O IT KE ER A S S Annual 25 admonishment Done to ___ Annual subscriptions subscriptions are are available available for for the the best best of of Sunday Sunday C A EM SP S O L A D BC U P B E N the language in the contract, contact crosswords crosswords from from the the last last 50 50 years: years: 1-888-7-ACROSS. 1-888-7-ACROSS. enders, 26 Match Foundering call AT&T RM K P AE QCA ET NA T LE LR C O S T S 25 CI O AT&T users: users: Text Text NYTX NYTX to to 386 386 to to download download puzzles, puzzles, or or visit visit your insurance agent or company T NE ES AT R MN O RR U I S I HS TA AL SI 27 briefly nytimes.com/mobilexword for for more more information. information.

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14 febrUARY 23, 2012 MATURE ARKANSAS

than one company.

hobbi es n B y Pa ig e Par ham

Helps Parkinson’s disease patients, too

T

ai Chi is a type of Chinese martial art, but most Tai Chi students use it as a strengthening, meditative exercise--not as a combat sport. The numerous health benefits of Tai Chi are appreciated worldwide and have recently been endorsed by many Western physicians. More and more doctors are recommending it to their older patients.

What is Tai Chi? The art of Tai Chi (known in China as T’ai chi ch’uan), is practiced for both defense training and its numerous health benefits.

Tai Chi is an excellent way to relieve tension and stress, as it emphasizes complete relaxation. It is a form of meditation, or what has been called “meditation in motion.” Unlike the hard martial arts, Tai Chi is characterized by soft, slow, flowing movements that emphasize force, rather than brute strength.

The movements are executed carefully and with precision.

Local martial arts studio Academy of Kali & Wing Chun offers a style of Tai Chi called the Simplified Sun Style method. They emphasize breathing and continuous slow movement. These movements are practiced until they become natural and you can easily use the movements in your everyday life.

Chi Gung is the breath work or breathing part and is used to help reenergize the body and mind through movement and precise breathing techniques. Academy owner Sifu Robert McClung says, “The practice of Tai

Mala Daggett Chi has numerous health benefits – from lessening the pain of arthritis to improving balance. It will work and strengthen all parts of the body.”

Benefits of Tai Chi A recent report on National Public Radio reported that Tai Chi helps Parkinson’s disease patients. Parkinson’s can cause problems with tremors, balance and motor control. Because Tai Chi forges a connection between mind and body, it can be a perfect choice for Parkinson’s patients.

The movements strengthen core muscles and improve balance. The meditative

properties have been proven to be effective at relieving stress.

Mala Daggett, a Little Rock Tai Chi instructor, began practicing in 1995 after a back injury. “I had a blown disc that nicked my spinal cord. I was having a hard time recovering from the surgery. I could do no other exercise. It just felt right.” Daggett is responsible for starting the Tai Chi program at UAMS in the Center for Aging and Physical Therapy. In 2000, Daggett began training instructors at the Centers on Aging across the state. After starting the practice of Tai Chi out of necessity, she has developed a sincere passion for its benefits and wants to help others improve their own health. “This is a passion for me, not a necessity,” Daggett says.

“Tai Chi balances our autonomic nervous system,” Daggett says. “It’s incredible how our bodies switch from fight-or-flight responses on a constant basis. The practice of Tai Chi promotes a balance to this system so that we can regain control of our responses.”

Daggett says, as Tai Chi reduces stress, it also reduces blood pressure. “Tai Chi can improve flexibility in arthritis patients, improve balance and posture in patients with Parkinson’s and Multiple Sclerosis and even treat children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, it’s really a wonderful thing,” Daggett says. She says some prisons have implemented Tai Chi programs to keep prisoners calm and un-stressed, without the use of prescription drugs.

Tai Chi Options N

o matter what level of physical activity you enjoy, there are classes to help you improve your quality of life.

• Laoshi Marsha McClung, of the Academy of Kali & Wing Chun, teaches Simplified Sun Style Tai Chi, on Thursdays, 7:00 - 8:00 PM, 3000 Kavanaugh, Suite 102A, Little Rock.

• The McClungs also host a class at the Centers for Youth and Families’ Community

Center (formerly Stephens YWCA), 1200 S. and Out for Older Adults.” It can be obtained Cleveland Street, Little Rock. These classes are directly from Daggett by calling 501- 626-2720 geared towards those over 55 and are every or emailing mala.daggett@nexuslearning.

Saturday at 10:15 AM. McClung has adapted biz. Cost is $35 plus shipping and handling. her teaching to include people who require a seated posture. The cost is included in the • Daggett also hosts workshops for those Centers’Community Center membership. For interested in learning to teach Tai Chi. The next more information call 565-8069 or visit www. workshop is March 22, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM and kaliandwingchun.com requires no experience or equipment. Cost is $140 and includes a copy of her DVD. To register, • Mala Daggett has produced a DVD of contact Daggett by calling 501- 626-2720 or her techniques, “Balance and Strength, Inside emailing mala.daggett@nexuslearning.biz MATURE ARKANSAS

febrUARY 23, 2012

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☛ A society grows great when old men plant trees whose shade they know they shall never sit in. — Greek Proverb ☛

Tai Chi Improves Balance, Strength

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16 febrUARY 23, 2012 MATURE ARKANSAS