Mature Arkansas

Mature Arkansas AUGUST, 2012

Sherry Walker’s New Cause PageS 12-15

ALSO in this issue

The Color of Your Money Page 20

You May Get a Refund Page 21

Tips to Finance Retirement Page 16-19

MATURE ARKANSAS

august, 2012

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letter to t he editor Dear Editor: ongratulations on the excellent July issue of Mature Arkansas. It opens discussions on caregiving, a much neglected aspect of mature living. Some time ago I wrote a Caregiver Survival Guide: I’m a Caregiver; I’m Special (But Not Perfect) As a caregiver -- I’ll do my best to take care of the person for whom I am a caregiver; I will make mistakes but I will make an honest effort to avoid and correct those mistakes and then I will forgive myself for any that need forgiveness, move on and not dwell on them.

I may feel such negative emotions as inadequacy, frustration, resentment, bitterness, depression, sorrow, even guilt but I will know that these emotions rise from the situation I am in, they are not character flaws or shortcomings on my part and I will not put myself down because of them and I will not let others impose such emotions on me.

Each time I feel one of these emotions, I will remind myself that I am giving up a large part of my life so that another person will live better than would be the case without my help.

I will educate myself as to how to discharge my responsibility as a caregiver and I will accept that responsibility; however, I will also insist on the authority to discharge that responsibility.

I will accept advice but not second guessing. Interested people who want to have input into my caregiving decisions are welcome to do so, but they must not wait until I have acted and then tell me, without documentation, that I did it wrong.

I’m a caregiver, not a doormat; I’m entitled to a life of my own. I insist that I be allowed to have it.

I will give to, and accept support from, other caregivers. No matter how busy I am, I will find time to reach out to, listen to and try to help other caregivers.

In spite of any difficulties I may have as a caregiver, I still have many blessings. I will count them frequently and remind myself to give thanks for them.

When my caregiving is over, I will know that I have met a challenge, that I have given love, discharged a duty, gone the extra mile, and I will cherish and relish the memories, peace of mind and satisfaction that follow.

I am special. I am a caregiver.

Again, congratulations, —Ken Forrester Maumelle

EDITORIAL n By Herb Sanderson

Supreme Court Decision Means Better Healthcare for Arkansans 50+

C

Dear Editor: his is a great editorial (June 2012 “End the Doping Scandal”). Thank you for writing on this horrific abuse.

These drugs are used to sedate residents in order to cut staff.

Residents don’t have the ability to ask for water, food, continent care, repositioning in their wheelchairs and beds, or even use of their call lights, just to name a few examples.

The data for Arkansas nursing homes that have residents on these drugs is staggering. I am sending you an email from CMS on their new initiative in dealing with this very serious issue. ­—Martha Deaver, President Ark. Advocates for Nursing Home Residents Conway

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he U.S. Supreme Court’s recent decision, to uphold the majority of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA), means that hundreds of thousands of Arkansans will continue to receive free preventive and wellness benefits under Medicare and the prescription drug “doughnut hole” will continue to shrink and ultimately close.

The law is closing the Medicare prescription-drug coverage gap, or “doughnut hole.” In just the first five months of 2012, 5,410 Arkansans saved a total of $3.46 million on prescription drugs within the doughnut hole. That’s an average of $687 in savings per person. The savings were even greater for plan year 2011—35,864 Arkansans received discounts totaling $21.1 million. Under the ACA, the doughnut hole continues to shrink until it is completely gone in 2020.

The ACA expands the number of Medicare recipients who are eligible for free preventive and wellness benefits. In Arkansas, 273,161 beneficiaries used one or more free preventive services in 2011. Preventive care helps protect older Arkansans from more serious health care problems later on and saves healthcare dollars.

The ACA is cracking down on Medicare fraud, waste and abuse, which has resulted in the recovery, so far, of over $4.1 billion for U.S. taxpayers.

The ACA also makes important insurance market reforms, such as eliminating pre-existing condition denials and establishing nationwide limits on age-based premium prices. It establishes tax incentives for businesses, along with health insurance “exchanges” to provide greater choices for both businesses and individuals. For those 50-64, afford-

The ACA is

cracking down on

Medicare fraud,

waste and abuse.

Mature Arkansas Publisher Alan Leveritt Editor Anne Wasson Art Director Mike Spain Photographer Brian Chilson Graphic Artist Bryan Moats Director of sales Katherine Daniels Circulation Director Anitra Hickman

ad Coordinators Roland Gladden Kelly Schlachter Production Manager Weldon Wilson Production Assistant Tracy Whitaker Office Manager Angie Fambrough Billing and Collections Linda Phillips

Mature Arkansas is published monthly by Arkansas Times Limited Partnership, 201 E. Markham St., 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 publisher is prohibited. Manuscripts and artwork will not be returned unless sufficient return postage and a self-addressed stamped envelope are included. The publisher assumes no responsibility for care or safe return of unsolicited materials. All letters will be treated as intended for publication and are subject to Mature Arkansas’ unrestricted right to edit or to comment editorially. All contents copyrighted 2012 Mature Arkansas.

Your Savings • AARP’s Doughnut Hole calculator at http://doughnuthole.aarp.org/ helps you estimate how much you can save on prescription drugs.

• The AARP Health Law Guide at www.aarp.org/healthlawguide is an easy-to-use online tool that allows you to create a personalized report of what benefits are, and will be, available to you — along with resources to access those benefits.

able health care will be available through these exchanges. Arkansas is moving forward with a federal-state partnership for our exchange, and AARP supports this effort; see http://hbe.arkansas.gov/ for more details.

AARP also supports Arkansas exercising its option to participate in the ACA’s expansion of Medicaid. It’s a good deal for Arkansas. The federal share of the cost will be 100 % through 2016, and then recede gradually to 90 % for 2020 and beyond.

Additionally, when Arkansas’ exchange is operational in January 2014, hundreds of billions of dollars in insurance subsidies will be available for Arkansans who meet income guidelines -- at no cost to Arkansas.

Coupled with the Medicaid expansion, this will offer the potential for states to reduce billions of dollars of currently uncompensated hospital care costs.

The ACA has many tangible benefits for Arkansans, especially those over age 50.

Mr. Sanderson is associate state director for advocacy for AARP Arkansas.

C O RREC TION We regret the error (July issue, pg. 26) in failing to include Hospice Home Care to the list of hospices serving central Arkansas.

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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.

GUEST EDITORIALS, on issues of interest to Arkansans over age 50, are encouraged. This is a forum for readers’ opinions and comment. Views expressed are not necessarily those of the Publisher. Contact the Editor at 501-375-2985 to discuss topics or send 300-500 word editorials to annewasson@arktimes.com All editorials are subject to editing and space limitations

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MATURE ARKANSAS august, 2012 3

the would - be g ourmet n B y bob wood

Food Sometimes a Gamble at Reno’s I

’ve eaten at Reno’s Argenta Café several times now, and I think my frequent lunch companion likes it more than I do. The place permits cigarette smoking (it’s essentially a bar that serves food), so that’s one strike against it. And, my dining experiences have been very uneven. That’s two. Take today, for instance.

I’ve eaten the Philly Cheese Steak ($8) before, and was really pleased with the sandwich. It’s flavorful, filling and quite good. But, for some reason, I opted to try the Argenta Burger ($7) since it was the first thing on the menu. That was a mistake.

How do you mess up something as simple and basic as a cheeseburger? You could start by over-cooking the meat until it’s dry and tough. I looked at the thing after my first bite, and it had that uniform light-grey color that meat gets when it’s cooked, and cooked, and then cooked some more: no pink and nothing remotely juicy. That’s too bad, too, because it was a large, ½ lb. burger, and some residual beef flavor might have been nice if the burger hadn’t undergone a mutation from organic patty into a building material.

I’m also a creature of habit, in that I like French fries with a burger. At Reno’s, the sandwiches come with homemade chips, pesto pasta or potato salad. I asked about adding fries and the waitress winced. Really,

she winced. “They’re extra,” she said, “two dollars.” Hmm. After mulling the necessity for a bank loan, I went with the fries. Again, not a good choice.

The fries were the “seasoned” variety, rather than just nice, crisp, gleaming French fries fresh out of a fryer. They had a good flavor, but seemed to have lived a significant part of their short, dull potato Reno’s fish tacos with homemade potato chips lives under a heat lamp. And, I love salt, but these guys were too salty for me. off a horse to take a look at.”

My friend ordered the Baja Fish Tacos Our tab was $29.59 with tip for a burger, ($8.95) and had much better luck. The tacos fries, fish tacos, tea and one beer. use blackened Tilapia for the filling, adding lettuce, tomato and orange aioli (sounds Reno’s Argenta Café so much more impressive than mayonnaise 312 Main Street seasoned with garlic). I thought the tacos were North Little Rock good. Would have liked some lemon wedges to 501-376-2900 go with the fish, but that’s just me. The homemade chips were pretty good, but, as a friend Mr. Wood, a Little Rock writer and designer, is of mine says, “not something you’d get down often hungry.

MEDI CAR E MAT T ERS n B y Sall y J o h nson

Medicare Covers Vaccines Y

ou probably know it’s smart to get a flu shot every fall. Medicare pays for it, and it’s the best way to protect yourself from an illness that causes more than 200,000 hospitalizations and 36,000 deaths in the United States every year--most of them people over 65.

There are three other Medicare-covered vaccines you should discuss with your doctor: • The pneumonia vaccine protects you against the most common types of bacterial pneumonia. Most people need the vaccine only once, around age 65. Some people who have a higher risk of getting pneumonia should get the vaccine at a younger age; they may need a booster shot after five years. You could be at higher risk if you smoke; have asthma; have lung, heart, or kidney disease; or have another health condition or take a medication that makes your body less able to fight off infections.

• The hepatitis B vaccine is important for people who have a higher risk of getting this virus, which can cause serious liver disease 4 august, 2012 MATURE ARKANSAS

and even death. People who have kidney disease or hemophilia, who live with someone who has hepatitis B, or have other risk factors should talk to their doctor about getting this vaccine.

• The shingles vaccine is a one-time shot that protects against shingles, a painful, blistering skin rash caused by the chicken pox virus. Anyone who has had chicken pox can get shingles, and the chances increase with age. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends everyone over age 60 get the shingles vaccine. It is covered by all Medicare Part D plans.

Even though Medicare covers these important vaccines, many people still don’t get their shots. It’s the easiest way to protect yourself against these serious illnesses, so be smart and get vaccinated.

Mrs. Johnson is Benefit/Relations Director with the Arkansas Foundation for Medical Care. For answers about Medicare or Medicaid, call her toll free at 888-354-9100.

By Jeanne W e i, M D , P h D

Tips to Avoid Dehydration T

he sense of thirst in older people declines with age. While we used to be able to count on our sense of thirst to help us take in enough fluid to regulate the body’s balance of sodium and water, now that we’re older, we may not feel the thirst when we should. Additionally, when the older body is deprived of water, its capacity to respond by conserving fluid and concentrating the urine is impaired.

Such a situation can become more complicated if you are sick from any kind of illness. The illness and/or its treatment with certain medications may even cause dehydration. Add this to the summer’s scorching heat and you could get into real trouble.

Dehydration is the most common fluid disturbance in older people.

It is difficult for even experienced healthcare professionals to detect early. But if dehydration goes untreated, it causes severe illness and can have grave results in up to half of older dehydrated patients.

Causes of dehydration Increased fluid loss in older people can be caused by: • Fever and illness, such as diabetes, vomiting, diarrhea, or swallowing disorders • Medications (diuretics, laxatives and stimulants such as methylphenidate) • A warm environment – like summer in Arkansas • Diminished response to a loss of fluids • Difficulty getting fluids because of immobility.

Symptoms You are likely becoming dehydrated if you have these symptoms: • Transient feelings of dizziness or “haziness in the head” • Weakness associated with getting up from a lying down or sitting position may be a sign of low blood pressure, which can occur with dehydration.

• Dryness of the mucous membranes.

• Individuals taking a fluid pill to control blood pressure can become dehydrated if the intake of oral fluids has not kept up with the fluid loss.

Treatment If you become severely dehydrated, fluid must be replaced immediately either by drinking water or electrolyte solutions, or intravenously in the hospital.

• Encouraging fluid intake of water and fluids with some salt (tomato juice is especially helpful), will help prevent dehydration during warm weather.

• Drink at least four to six glasses of liquid every day—water, milk, vegetable juices, Gatorade, Powerade, club soda and decaffeinated beverages.

• Eat melons and other water-based foods such as smoothies, soups, ice cream.

• Limit your intake of caffeinated and alcoholic beverages; they are diuretics and can increase fluid loss.

• Stay indoors during extremely hot temperatures.

• Wear a hat and sunglasses to protect from overexposure to the sun.

Dr. Wei is executive director, Reynolds Institute on Aging and chairman, Reynolds Dept. of Geriatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock.

YouR House Is MoRe THan a HoMe Q: Are there any special requirements to get a reverse mortgage?

A: As long as you own a home, are at least 62 years old, and have enough equity in your home, you can get a Reverse Mortgage. There are no Income or Credit requirements.

Q: What if I have an existing mortgage?

A: You may qualify for a reverse mortgage even if you still owe money on an existing mortgage. However, the reverse mortgage must be in a first lien position, so any existing loans must be paid off. You can pay off the existing mortgage with a reverse mortgage.

For example, let›s say your home is worth $100,000 and you owe $30,000 on an existing mortgage. Based on your age, home value, and interest rates, you qualify for $65,000 under the reverse mortgage program. Under this scenario, you will be able to pay off ALL the existing mortgage and still have $35,000 left over to use as you wish after paying closing costs and pre-paids.

Q: How do I receive my money?

A: You can choose to receive the money from a reverse mortgage all at once as a lump sum, fixed monthly payments either for a set term or for as long as you live in the home, as a line of credit, or a combination of these.

Q: How Much Money Can I Get? A: The amount of funds you are eligible to receive depends on your age (or the age of the youngest spouse in the case of couples), the appraised value and interest rates. An example: Rates are at an all time low right now, therefore you receive more cash today. If rates go up, you’ll qualify for less cash out.

Q: What happens to my spouse if I die? Does she have to move out? What about my kids?

A: ABSOLUTELY NOT!!! As long as she is on the loan, nothing happens. She can live in the home until she chooses not to. Your kids still inherit the home. No change there.

Q: How can I use the proceeds from a reverse mortgage?

A: The proceeds from a reverse mortgage can be used for anything, whether it’s to supplement retirement income to cover daily living expenses, repair or modify your home,, pay for health care, pay off existing debts, cover property taxes, prevent foreclosure or to take a DREAM VACATION!!!

If you would like to speak with Jason or Brian about your specific situation, with no obligation or fee, feel free to call us here in Little Rock at 296-9037 or email Jason at jhornsby@topflitefinancial.com.

415 N. McKinley Street, Suite 280-c • little rocK 501.296.9037 • www.topflitefinancial.com Top FliTe Financial is an equal housing lender regulaTed

by The arkansas securiTies commissioner nmls #’s 642857, 257818, 282088, 4181. license #’s 102216, 101990.

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☛

Those who bring sunshine to the lives of others cannot keep if from themselves. — Sir James Barrie

☛

CALEN D AR P I C KS

August’s Awesome Events

By A.H. Wasson

CLASSES

Aug.—Yoga classes; Quapaw Community Center, 500 Quapaw Ave., Hot Springs; Mon. 10:15-11:15 AM; Wed. 5:30-6:30 PM; Sat. 10:0011:30 AM. Call 501-623-9922.

plants and animals inspired by Renaissance traditions. FREE. Aug.-Travelers Baseball;Dickey-Stephens Park, foot of Broadway Bridge, North Little Rock. $6-$12, children under 2 free. Home games: Aug. 1st -7th; 15th-21st; 28th-31st; and FINAL HOME GAMES of the season: Sept. 1st-3rd; all games 7:10 PM; Sun. games 6:00 PM.

Aug. —Zumba Gold classes, sponsored

by CareLink, modify for active older people the regular Zumba moves and pacing, also for beginners of any age.

Aug.—Little Rock Zoo, Jonesboro Dr., In Little Rock at: War Memorial Park, Little Rock; $10; $8 for 60+ • UAMS Institute on Aging, Aqua Zumba & children 12 and under; 9:00 AM-5:00 PM. Call on Mon. & Fri. 1:00 PM and Fri. 11:00 AM for 501-666-2406. Giraffe Encounter at 1:30 PM, Zumba Gold (call 526-5779) Saturdays & Sundays.

• B e ss C h isum S t e p h e n s Community Center on Tues. & Thurs. 11:15 AM; Zumba Gold (call Chuck Burks teaches yoga 664-4268) at Wildwood Park. Photo • Pulaski Heights United courtesy Wildwood Park for Methodist Church on Tues. the Arts. & Thurs. 2:00 PM; Zumba Gold (call 664-3600) In North Little Rock at: • Indian Hills Church on Mon., Wed., Fri.; 3:15 PM for Zumba Gold (call 835-2838) • Lakewood United Methodist Church, Mon. & Fri., 2:45 PM for Zumba Gold (call 753-6186).

3-12. Call 501-767-3461.

Now through Sept. 17—“Astronomy, It’s a Blast;” Museum of Discovery, 500 Pres.

Clinton Ave., Little Rock; Tues.-Sat. 9:00 AM-5:00 PM; Sun. 1:00-5:00 PM. $10; $8 for seniors and children under 12. Call 396-7050 or visit amod.org

TAKE A FRIEND Aug—family-friendly, original live comedy at The Joint; 301 Main St., North Little Rock, Fri. & Sat. 8:00 PM; $20, reservations recommended, call 372-0205.

Aug. 9 or 23—play Dominoes or Poker—all skill levels welcome; Ester Nixon Library, 703 W. Main St., Jacksonville; 6:00 PM; Dominoes meets 2nd Thurs. of each month; Poker on 4th Thurs. FREE. Call 457-5038.

A u g . — A r k . C i v i l Wa r Sesquicentennial Events include (all FREE) : Aug. 6-19—Civil War Ark. Traveling Exhibit; Ark. State Library in Little Rock (682-2053) Aug. 16—Civil War 1861-1865 program; Herzfeld Library in Benton SecondThurs.—Greater Little (501-778-47660 Rock Camera Club; Main Library, Au g . 25 — A Di v i d e d A r k .

100 Rock St., Little Rock; 6:00 PM; seminar; Old State House Museum speakers, discussion, digital and film in Little Rock (324-9685) cameras; FREE. Call 614-9098.

Aug.28—CivilWarRoundtable, lecture on the Sultana; 2nd Presbyterian Church in Little Rock (RMeadows@aaamissouri.com) Aug.—Invasion or Liberation?

Aug.—Hatha Yoga classes, taught by Chuck Aug. 9-11—36th Annual Hope exhibit; Butler Center for Ark. Studies Burks; Wildwood Park for the Arts, 20919 Denny Rd., Watermelon Festival; Fair in Little Rock (320-5700) Little Rock; every Sat. 10:00 AM. FREE; all levels welcome.

Park, Hope; includes world’s largest Aug.—Civil War in Ark. exhibit; Contact Sheridan@wildwoodpark.org watermelons by the slice, the waterHistoric Ark. Museum, Little Rock melon Olympics, huge arts and craft (324-9351) sale, antique car show, live music and Now through Sep. 4—“ Odyssey’s Aug.—Battle Colors of Ark. -exhibit children’s activities. More at 870-777-3640 or Shipwreck Pirates and Treasures,” of battle flags; Old State House Museum, Little hopemelonfest.com plus continuing hands-on exhibits; Rock (324-9685) Nowthrough Aug.11—Harry Potter’s Mid-America Science Museum, 500 Mid-America Aug. 13, 20, 27 and every Mon.— World; Main Library, 100 Rock St., Little Rock’s Blvd., Hot Springs; Tues.-Sat. 10:00 AM-5:00 PM, Conversational Spanish lessons; River Market. The exhibit explains the potions, Sun. 11:00 AM-5:00 PM; $9; $7 for 65+ and ages Oley Rooker Library, 11 Otter Creek Ct., Little

TAKE THE GRANDKIDS

6 august, 2012 MATURE ARKANSAS

Rock; 6:00-7:00 PM; meets every Mon. For beginners; lots of review. FREE. Call 907-5991.

Aug.25—Shred-It Event; Bank of the Ozarks parking lot, Maumelle; $5-$10; 9:00 AM-1:00 PM; sponsored by Counting on Each Other, a non-profit that provides dental and hearing assistance for low-income seniors. Call 851-4344.

Now through Aug. 25—“Outside the Pale: The Architecture of Fay Jones;” Laman Library, 2801 Orange St., North Little Rock; Mon.Thurs. 9:00 AM-9:00 PM; Fri.-Sat. 9:00 AM-5:00 PM; Sun. 1:00-5:00 PM, FREE. Call 758-1720.

Third Mon.—“Preservation Conversations;” Quapaw Quarter Association, 5:00 PM beer and wine; program 5:30-6:30, FREE. Discussion continues over dinner at Lulav Restaurant. Call 371-0075.

• Now through Sep 9—11th National Drawing Invitational: New York, continues the Arts Center’s long commitment to drawings of American artists and features New York artists.

• Now-Aug. 25—The AAC’s Museum School summer art classes; full list of classes at arkarts.com Aug. 17—Argenta ArtWalk, every third Friday from 5:00 – 8:00 PM, Main Street, North Little Rock. Call 993-1234.

Now through Sept. 8—Montage 24; Hearne Fine Art, 1001 Wright Ave., Suite C, Little Rock. Exhibit features selections from artists the gallery has represented over past 24 years. Weekdays 10:00 AM-5:00 PM, Sat. 11:00 AM-5:00 PM. FREE. Call 372-6822.

FARMERS’ MARKETS

Aug. 11—Gourmet Second Saturday Chef Series; River Market Pavilions, 400 Pres. Clinton Ave., Little Rock; 9:00 & 10:30 AM; local chefs demonstrate veggie and fruit preparation. Call 375-2552 or visit rivermarket.info Conway’s On-Line Farmers’ Market—Visit Conway.locallygrown. net Order Sun. - Tues. by 9:00 PM; pick up order on following Fri. 4:00-6:00 PM at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 925 Mitchell St. Annual membership $25 per household.

Conway Farmers’ Market, 717 Parkway St., Tues, Thurs, Sat. 7:00 AM-1:00 PM; third Thurs. 4:00-8:00 PM. Call 501-329-8344.

Hot Springs—Tues. 5:00 -8:00 PM; Thurs. 7:00-11:00 AM; Sat. 7:00 AM-noon; Historic Downtown Farmers’ Market, 121 Orange St.; FREE parking. Tuesday evening market includes live music, kids’ activities and other entertainment.

Visit hotspringsfarmersmarket.com Hot Springs—Spa-City Co-Op. Visit spacity.locallygrown.net/market for a huge assortment of food and other products; place order from Sat.-Tues. by 9:00 PM, every other week.

Little Rock—Tues. and Sat. through October 27; 7:00 AM-3:00 PM; River Market Pavilions, 400 Pres. Clinton Ave. Call 375-2552 or visit rivermarket.info Little Rock’s Hillcrest Neighborhood, Pulaski Heights Baptist Church, 2200 Kavanaugh; Sat. 7:00 AM-noon, 2200 Kavanaugh Blvd.

Little Rock’s Bernice Garden, 1401 S. Main St., Sun. 10:00 AM-2:00 PM; call 617-2511.

North Little Rock—Sat. 7:00 AM to noon—The Argenta Farmers’Market, 6th & Main streets.

ART Now through Aug 17—“Magic and Medicine;”Sequoyah National Research Center’s Wiggins Native American Art Gallery, UALR’s University Plaza, Suite 500, S. University and Col. Glenn, Little Rock; weekdays 8:00 AM- 5:00 PM; FREE. Curator and Cherokee artist Robert Taylor will display works from Center’s collection and his new pieces. Call 501-569-8336.

Aug.—Arkansas Arts Center exhibits, 9th & Commerce St., Little Rock, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM weekdays (closed Mon.); 11:00 AM-5:00 PM weekends.

FREE. Call 372-4000 or visit arkarts.com Exhibits include: • Now through Aug. 19—The Rockefeller Influence, exhibit focuses on Gov. & Mrs. Rockefeller’s role in establishing the Arts Center.

Born at the close of World War I and on the cusp of the Roaring Twenties, Dorothy Howell Rodham and Virginia Clinton Kelley came of age in a changing America. The Great Depression and World War II defined their Generation, and both women overcame obstacles to provide nurturing homes filled with love and support. Their lives were an inspiration to their family, friends, and those who knew them.

June 11, 2012 – November 25, 2012

1200 President Clinton Avenue • 501-374-4242 • clintonpresidentialcenter.org MATURE ARKANSAS

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CALEN DAR P I C KS Now through Sept. 15—Southern Women in the Arts; Thompson Fine Art; 429 Main St., North Little Rock; 10:00 AM-5:00 PM, Sat. 10:00 AM-2:00 PM; FREE. Call 664-2787.

☛

Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished. — Lao Tzu

☛

Aug.—Museum of Contemporary Art, featuring 2 exhibits: “The Lost Highway” and“Art of Masks of the World;”Ozark Bathhouse, 425 Central Ave., Hot Springs; Wed.-Sat. 10:00 AM-4:00 PM, Sun. Noon-3:00 PM; $5, 12 and under free. Call 501-609-9966.

Aug.—Hot Springs Photo Competition; Fine Arts Center of Hot Springs; 626 Central Ave., Hot Springs, 11:00 AM-5:00 PM, closed Sun and Mon.; open until 9:00 PM on 1st & 3rd Sat. for Gallery Walk. Call 501-624-0489.

Third Thurs.— Conway ArtWalk; downtown Conway; 5:00-8:00 PM; FREE. Call 329-8249.

Now through Aug. 18—“Still Crazy…,” an exhibit of watercolors, oils, prints, drawings and sculptures by Warren Criswell, Cantrell Gallery, 8206 Cantrell Rd., Little Rock; Mon.-Sat. 10:00 AM- 5:00 PM; FREE.

MUSEUMS

-$4+tax. Call 371-8320 or visit AIMM.museum Aug.—Old State House Museum; 300 W, Markham St., Little Rock. Permanent and special exhibits focusing on Arkansas life, politics, government; Mon.-Sat. 9:00 AM- 5:00 PM; Sun. 1:00-5:00 PM. FREE; call 324-9685.

N ow t h ro u g h J a n. 6— His to r ic Arkansas Museum; 200 E. Third St., Little Rock, “Barbie: The 11” Icon; also, “We Walk in Two Worlds: The Caddo, Osage and Quapaw in Arkansas,” weekdays & Sat. 9:00 AM-5:00 PM; Sun.1:00 -5:00 PM. $2.50; $1.50 for 65+; 17 and under $1. Call 324-9351.

Quapaw Bathhouse, 413 Central Ave., Hot Springs; $10, includes appetizers. Guest artist every 4th Fri.; 6:00 PM. Call 501-767-0211.

Second Sun. & Fourth Fri.—An Evening of Jazz; Hall of Stars, 5001 W. 34th St., Little Rock; Sun. 6:00 PM; Fri. 7:30 PM; $10. Call 590-0177.

First and third Sun.—Traditional Irish music; Hibernia Irish Tavern, 9700 Rodney Parham Rd., Little Rock; 2:30- 5:00 PM; FREE. Second and fourth Mon.—Arkansas Celtic Music Society; Khalil’s Pub, 110 S. Shackleford Rd., Little Rock; 7:00-9:00 PM; FREE. Call 501-224-0224.

First & Third Wed.—Ark. C e lt ic M usic S o ci e t y; Something Brewing, 1156 Front St., Conway; 7:00-9:00 PM; FREE. Call 501-602-5508.

Enjoy an afternoon of tinkering at Museum of Discovery.

Photo: Explorium Tinkering Studios

Third Fri.—Ark. River Blues Society; Cornerstone Pub & Grill, 314 Main St., North Little Rock; 8:00 PM; $3 members, $5 non-members.

Call 879-833-3498.

DANCING

Aug 4—Ark. Discovery Network tinkering event, Museum of Discovery, 500 Pres. Clinton Ave., Little Rock; noon to 4:00 PM. Over 30 stations will offer fully supplied workplaces to make things, largely from recycled materials, and take home with you—from circuit boards to jewelry making; taking apart a real car to making a rag doll, and many more. All ages welcome. Call 537-3078 or visit museumofdiscovery.org\

Now through S e p t. 1 6 — “ P l ay Ball! The St. Louis Cardinals;” Clinton Presidential Center, 1200 Pres. Clinton Ave., Little Rock; Mon.-Sat. 9:00 AM-5:00 PM; Sun. 1:00-5:00 PM; $7; $5 seniors and students; $3 ages 6-17; free for active military & children under 6. Call 374-4242. Other exhibits: Now through Nov. 25—“Dorothy Rodham & Virginia Kelley.”

N ow t h ro u g h J a n. 5— “A Vo ice Through the Viewfinder: Images of Arkansas’Black Community by Ralph Armstrong;” Mosaic Templars Cultural Center, 501 W. Ninth St., Little Rock; Tues.-Sat. 9:00 AM-5:00 PM; FREE. Call 683-3620.

Aug.— The U.S.S. Razorback Submarine tours; docked at the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum, 120 Riverfront Park Dr., North Little Rock; Wed.- Sat.10:00 AM-6:00 PM; Sun. 1:00-6:00 PM. Adults -$6+tax; 62+, military & 12 and under

8 august, 2012 MATURE ARKANSAS

MUSIC

F i r s t T h u r s . o f e ac h m o n t h — Bluegrass Jam; Garland Co. Library, 1427 Malvern Ave., Hot Springs; 5:30-7:30 PM; all acoustic, all ages; FREE. Call 501-623-4161

Saturdays, “Pickin’ Porch;” Faulkner County Library, 1900 Tyler St., Conway, Sat. 9:30 AM, FREE. Call 501-327-7482.

Second Sat.—Ark. Dulcimer Society; Pulaski Heights Baptist Church, 2200 Kavanaugh Blvd., Little Rock; hammered and mountain dulcimers welcome; 2:00-4:00 PM; FREE. Call 661-1129.

Aug. 24— Arkansas Jazz Experience;

Aug. 9—The Arts in Motion: Tango; Arkansas Arts Center (AAC), 9th & Commerce St., Little Rock; 7:00 PM; FREE for AAC members, $10 non-members.

An evening for dance experts and people with no dance experience.

No partner required. Starts with Tango lessons; after the lessons, guest can practice their new moves.

Call 372-4000.

M o n d ay s — S c o t t is h Country Dance Society, Park Hill Presbyterian Church, 3520 JFK Blvd., North Little Rock. Beginner’s class 7:00-8:00 PM; no experience or partner required; $5. Call 821-4746.

Fridays—Country Dance Society, Park Hill Presbyterian, 3520 JFK Blvd., North Little Rock, 7:30-9:30 PM every 1st, 3rd, 5th Fri. No experience needed, all ages welcome. $4 for society members, $5 nonmembers. Call 501-603-5305.

Dances and dance lessons at Bess Stephens Community Center, 12th & Cleveland Streets, Little Rock: Country Dancers; 7:00-9:00 PM, 1st, 2nd, 3rd Sundays (501-821-9353)

SAVE THE DATE August — AARP's Driver Safety Classes Refresher safety course teaches defensive driving and completion guarantees a discount auto insurance.

Date 9th 9th 9th 9th 13th 14th 15th 15th 16th 18th 21st 28th 29th

Arkansas City Hot Springs Vil. Bryant Hot Springs Conway Little Rock Hot springs Vil. Little Rock Jacksonville Hot Springs No. Little Rock Hot Springs Vil. Benton Hot Springs

Time 8:30 8:30 1:00 1:00 9:00 8:30 9:00 9:30 8:30 9:00 8:30 8:00 8:30

Location McAuley Center Indian Springs Baptist Ch Mercy Hospital Conway Library St. Vincent Vil. United Meth Church Baptist Health (Room 20) St. Jude Catholic Church Irwin Agency Baptist Medical Center Christ of the Hills Church Benton Sr. Center Irwin Agency

Contact Phone 501-084-5594 501-847-4722 501-622-1033 501-329-6859 501-552-3333 501-922-1030 501-227-8478 501-982-4891 501-623-7066 501-227-8478 501-922-4503 501-623-7066

Ballroom, Latin and Swing Social Dance Association; 7:009:00 PM, 1st, 2nd, 4th Fridays (501-664-4268) Little Rock Bop Club; 7:00-9:00 PM, every Wed. (501-350-4712) Square Dance, 2:00-4:00 PM, every Thurs. (501-490-1197) Fridays—Spa City Bop and Swing Dance Club, VFW, 2231 E. Grand Ave., Hot Springs, 7:00 PM, 2nd, 4th 5th Fri., $2. Free lessons with $20 membership at 7:00 PM Thurs. Call 501-760-7375.

Aug.—Quapaw Community Center dancing includes ballroom lessons, Thurs. 7:00-10:00 PM (call 501-623-9922); Clogging, Tues & Thurs, 8:30-11:00 AM; Line Dancing, Tues.& Thurs. 11:00 AM-noon; 500 Quapaw Ave., Hot Springs. Call 501-623-9922.

Saturdays—Merry Mixers Dance Club; Coronado Center, Hot Springs Village, 1st Sat., 7:00-10:00 PM, $7.50; 3rd Sat., 7:30-10:30 PM, $10.

Call 501-922-1709.

Saturdays—Burns Park Dancing; Burns Park Hospitality House, North Little Rock; polka, waltz and potluck supper; $10. Call 680-2994.

Wednesdays—Village A Team Square Dancers, Coronado Community Center, Hot Springs Village, 7:30 PM; $5 for guests.

CRAFTING

Mon.—Knitting Circle; Roosevelt Thompson Library, 38 Rahling Circle, Little Rock; 1:00 PM. FREE. All ages, all skill levels welcome. Call 821-3060.

Mon.—Knits & Purls; Adolphine Terry Library, 2015 Napa Valley Dr., Little Rock, 5:00 PM; FREE, refreshments provided. Call 228-0129.

Sept. 7--Put OnYour Dancing Shoes:ViralVideoVolunteers Needed. The Hot Springs Village Property Owners’Association Marketing Department is looking for volunteer dancers to participate in a viral video (flash mob) during the Visitor Center Grand Opening. Contact dbotkin@ hsvpoa.org to volunteer. Not sure what a successful flash mob looks like? Look at this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VQ3d3KigPQM Sept. 14-23—The 2012 Arkansas Senior Olympic Games; Hot Springs. Designed for both fun and serious 50+ athletes; qualifying event for 2013 National Senior Games. Out-of-state athletes encouraged to compete. List of event and registration form at www.srsports or call 501-321-1441 or toll free 800-720-7276.

Call CareLink at 501-372-5300 or 800-482-6359 Beverly and her coworkers at CareLink’s Information & Assistance office are skilled in helping older people and their families find services.

We provide information and assistance to make sure you get the services you need, whether they come from CareLink or another agency.

Last year more than 18,000 people in Faulkner, Lonoke, Monroe, Prairie, Pulaski and Saline Counties were CareLinked with information and resources to help them stay active and independent.

Make a call to CareLink or visit carelink.org to get help without feeling helpless.

Thurs.—Fiddlesticks Knitting Group; Amy Sanders Library, 31 Shelby Dr., Sherwood; 1:00-3:00 PM; all skill levels. FREE. Call 835-7756 Fri.—Pinnacle Piecemakers Quilting Circle; Roosevelt Thompson Library, 38 Rahling Circle, Little Rock; all skill levels; 10:00 AM. FREE. Call 821-0360.

www.carelink.org

Aug. 21—Sit & Stitch; Main Library, 100 S. Rock St., Little Rock; Noon; all skill levels of knitting, croquet, embroidery. FREE. 918-3000.

MATURE ARKANSAS

august, 2012

9

HERE'S LOOKING AT YOU n By Rita and the fashionistas

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A p a r t m e n t s A beautiful affordable community based on income for the elderly, disabled and handicapped.

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irror, mirror, oh my GAWD! We all remember that day--after the beach, during the flight, or in the hotel room—where the harsh light of not-home revealed skin that looked and felt…well…OLD! No flex, no bounce-back, and it stayed exactly where you pushed it. GACK! What will revive our skin? Even our guy-pals see the first scruff of grey-beard crinkle and panic. What to do?

The Fashionistas and I explored this care-crossroads and found most of us have a reliable quick fix with over-the-counter products. The House of Olay reigns supreme, boasting that they dominate with half of 50+ women and men seeking advanced skin care. Their age-blasting arsenal includes the Regenerist collection, which regularly clobbers other costly department store products. Olay wins the first-line of defense in the skin wars, providing well-documented results for help and protection.

With Regenerist, along with metro-packaged 7 in One simple treatments, Olay satisfies the yearn for supple skin.

If you need more care and better progress in the better-face-fight, try the time-tested Estee Lauder RE-Nutriv regimen. It includes Lift Crème, Age-Correcting lotions, Night Repair and the breakthrough science of Perfectionist wrinklelifting serum technology.

The advent of “serum” has swept the wrinklescene with fire-hose intensity. Both soothing and clinical, serums applied after cleansing and preparation are said to infuse skin with hyper-effective hydration. Lauder’s 1-2-3 Re-Nutriv program provides “a multi-vitamin booster for skin enhancement and restoration,” according to the skinsavvy Fashionista Debbie Murphy.

Our Fashionistas have located the ultimate central Arkansas, noninvasive, skin improvement battleground at Conway Cosmedic

Hydrate all day!

Lots of water promotes all good things in skin

Photos.com, Comstock

Amenities • Community Area • Beauty Shop • Gardening • Library • 5 Laundromats • Planned Activities • Weekly trips to local grocery and Wal-Mart

10 august, 2012 MATURE ARKANSAS

Dare to Care for Your Skin

Where to Shop • Olay products, at Walgreen’s, Kroger and drug stores, ranging from $5 to $65 www.olayskincare.com • Estee Lauder, at Dillard’s in Park Plaza Mall and other locations.

• Debbie Murphy, cosmetic artist, 501-661-0053 • Conway Cosmedic Clinic, Sharon Meador, MD, 505 Dave Ward Drive, Suite 3B, Conway; 501-932-0912; www. conwaycosmedic. com Skin care products and services from $12 to $1,200.

Clinic. Overwhelmingly positive clients, praising post-accident and skin disorder recovery, led us to the door of this amazing skin mecca. Dr. Sharon Meador painstakingly oversees laser services, luxury aesthetics, advanced skin care and treatment, as well as treating rosacea, psoriasis and other skin woes. This upscale yet affordable clinic offers the most adventuresome cadre of mainstream and exotic offerings, such as Laserpeel, Micro-derm, Broadband Light Therapy, Botox, Dermafrac, plus an array of homecare devices from Clarisonic and Tanda. Clients like having a doctor for individual diagnosis, treatment, and advanced care of aging and problem skin.

The Fashionistas also recommend two simple tricks for good skin: • Exfoliate before any treatment. Dead skin is a roadblock to radiant skin.

• Hydrate all day! Lots of water promotes all good things in skin and body care. Don’t wait until you are thirsty.

Rita Mitchell Harvey, former owner of Elle, loves keeping an eye on all things fashionable.

Arkansas Advocates for Nursing Home Residents P.O. Box 165641 • Little Rock, AR 72216 • (501) 450-9619 www.aanhr.org MissioN stAteMeNt: “To protect and improve the quality of care and life for residents in Arkansas nursing homes.”

MOnThLy MeeTing 2nd Monday of each Month • 10 am to 12 pm (no Aug. or Dec. Meeting) First Assembly of god Church • 4501 Burrow Road • north Little Rock “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute.

Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” Proverbs 31:8 niV

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12 august, 2012 MATURE ARKANSAS

By Kay e R i s s e r

P hoto g r aphy b y B r ia n C hilso n

Sherry Walker’s Newest Issue Campaign: AARP Arkansas

I

f it’s not a marriage made in heaven,

it’s the closest thing to it. Long-time political consultant Sherry Walker has brought her teaching and lobbying talents to AARP, and AARP Arkansas has gained an outstanding new president. Walker’s volunteer leadership of the statewide advocacy organization will be enhanced by her rich skill set and years of Arkansas political experience. Her initial training as an educator and each job she has held since have led her to this position.

Now, it will be her voice leading AARP’s advocacy work for all citizens over 50 throughout Arkansas.

“Currently, AARP is working on the ‘You've Earned a Say’ program,” Walker says. “We're engaging AARP members across the state in conversations about Social Security and Medicare. We're hearing that they don't want those conversations (about changes in Social Security and Medicare) to go on behind closed doors. They've earned the right to participate,” Walker emphasizes.

With a career military man as a father, Walker’s education was like that of most “army

brats,” she says. “We didn’t move as much as some families, but I spent some time in Hawaii, started first grade in Washington, D.C., lived in Fort Smith, and ended my high school years in Oklahoma City.” Walker says her roots run deep in Arkansas. Her grandfather was a farmer from “near England,” and, according to locals, was often the person others consulted on farming matters. For Walker’s father, however, farming “was not his calling;” he enlisted in the military during World War II. Walker says she and her father were “avid Razorback fans,” and that helped her decide to attend the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville.

After earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees, she began teaching high school English and working as a librarian at Fayetteville High School.

While teaching, Walker entered the political arena for the first time. She took a year’s leave from teaching to serve as the elected, full-time president of the Arkansas Education Association (AEA). Walker says she quickly learned that politics affects most decisions in education. At the end of her AEA term she

I learned my first big lesson: Politics can be a very tricky business.

returned to teaching.

“I ran for a seat in the state legislature (against the incumbent) because I had been supported by people in the community and by the Labor Council,” she says.

With three candidates in the race, she and the other candidate agreed to give their backing to whoever made it to the runoff. “He threw his votes to the opponent instead, and that’s when I learned my first big lesson: Politics can be a very tricky business,” she says.

“I have a great regard now for anyone who puts their name on a ballot,” Walker adds, “but you end up asking, ‘What did I do to make those who didn’t vote for me angry?’ Then it becomes, ‘Who am I going to anger the next time?’ When you look at it from than angle; if that’s what it takes to win, it’s not much of a victory!”

After 10 years, “I left teaching for economic MATURE ARKANSAS

august, 2012

13

reasons. As a single woman, I just couldn’t make it on that salary.”

She joined Houghton Mifflin Publishing’s Riverside Division as a consultant, assisting school districts in selecting textbooks and educating teachers how to teach from those books. Besides requiring that she move to Little Rock, the job involved extensive travel. The travel was wearing on her and it was increasingly difficult to stay connected to her family and community.

The challenge is huge but welcome.

She ended that job when she married Bill Walker in 1984. He was working on a joint project between the Arkansas General Assembly and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UALR).

In 1987 he was promoted to Vice Chancellor for University Advancement at UALR. Walker’s next job was as the first paid lobbyist for the League of Women Voters (LWV) in Arkansas.

She says the LWV is policy driven and educational, and “it seemed to bring all my interests together.”

One of the legislative friends she worked with, both as AEA President and as the LWV’s lobbyist, was David Matthews of Rogers. He got the General

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Assembly to include a constitutional amendment to establish a small claims court as one of three amendments referred to the general election ballot. Matthews put her in touch with Chief Justice Jack Holt, with whom she began working statewide as campaign manager to get voters to approve the issue. With that success, Walker says she had found her true calling: political consulting on issue campaigns.

Walker’s other political victories have had significant and lasting impact on Arkansas public policy.

These include working to create the Judicial Discipline and Disability Commission, enact the Campaign Finance Act of 1990, raise the constitutional millage limit to support public libraries, safeguard Medicaid funding with the defense of the two-cent soft-drink tax and defeat an effort to abolish property taxes in Arkansas. “While I developed the strategies and was often the official spokesperson for the campaigns, their successes were dependent on developing and working with statewide coalitions of diverse groups and organizations,” Walker says.

In the late 1980s and early 1990s, she shared offices with two other consultants, Ron Copeland and Mary Dillard. It was Dillard that Walker succeeded as AARP Arkansas president when Dillard retired last year. “We worked together on policy projects but had separate identities,” says Walker.

“We were so compatible in our interests and positions, we created a very nurturing environment for each of us.” Walker says she represented a few candidates for statewide races, including Jim Guy Tucker for Lieutenant Governor, “but I still preferred issues.”

Walker is especially proud of the 1994 “soft drink tax” campaign to raise state matching funds for the Medicaid program, then facing a huge funding shortfall. Spearheaded by the aging network, Walker helped publicize and promote the issue, which was subsequently approved by voters. Of that victory, Walker says proudly, “Coca Cola and

Sherry Walker will lead the 329,205 members of AARP in Arkansas.

PepsiCo spent $4.5 million before the 1994 general election (to get the tax repealed), but the vote was 65% to 35% to keep the tax.”

Returning to the field of education, Walker joined the staff of the University of Arkansas System in Little Rock as director of planning and resource management; later moving to the UA System’s Winthrop Rockefeller Institute as its first director of programs.

“The Rockefeller programs,” she says, “were interesting, diverse and concerned with issues of Arkansans, including the arts, education and public policy.”

The Rockefeller Trust had provided a grant to develop an educational conference center on Petit Jean Mountain, where former Governor Rockefeller owned a ranch. Walker was asked to be director of programs and, “That’s how I got to the mountain,” she exclaims. “One of the best perks of that position was I got to listen to National Public Radio on the (110-mile roundtrip) drive.” She calls NPR’s discussion of issues “energizing.”

As AARP Arkansas President, Walker says, “One priority of mine is to make Arkansans aware that there is much to be gained by getting involved with AARP, not only after retirement, but before retirement. The fact is a great number of our members are still working.” The organization has 329,205 members in Arkansas.

“Although I am about education writ large, I am also a policy wonk,” Walker says. “I didn’t realize how broad AARP activities and programs were until I actually sat in the driver’s seat. The challenge is huge but welcome,” she says. “When I went through the Greater Little Rock Leadership Program, I realized I had to have a cause, a passion. I know now that AARP is worthy of my time and effort--there IS a cause here.”

A great number of our members are still working.

• Active lifestyle

Mature Arkansas Subscriptions Available Annual subscriptions to MATURE ARKANSAS are $15 per year for 12 issues, 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

august, 2012

15

A U GUST RETI R EMENT T I P S : F I N A N C E S n B y A nne H . W asson

R

etirement is a modern luxury. Our grandparents didn’t stop working until they were too ill to keep going. Retirement meant the end of life. In 1900, the average life expectancy was 47. Today, about 75% of Americans will celebrate their 65th birthday and people 85+ are the fastest growing segment of our population.

Retirement can be a fabulous time of life with fulfilling volunteer activities, part-time or self-employment, or perhaps devoting yourself to a favorite hobby full-time.

A fabulous retirement, one that lets you explore your dreams or start a new business, requires stable and adequate finances. Are you prepared to finance your retirement for 20 or even 30 years?

We’ve asked six top financial advisors to tell us what mistakes to avoid, as well as what positive steps to take, so your money will provide the retirement you’ve earned.

Have you planned for long-term care?

Jason Hornsby, branch manager for Top Flite Financial in Little Rock, says the biggest mistake he sees his clients making is failing to plan for their long-term care needs. “Everybody thinks the government is going to take care of them,” Hornsby says. ”Social Security and Medicare are there to handle income and healthcare

needs. Unfortunately, neither of those government programs pays for an extended nursing home stay (about $5,000 per mo.) or for in-home care (around $2,500 per mo.). Once you spend your lifetime of savings and get down to your last $2,000, Medicaid will pay for nursing home care and some in-home care,” Hornsby explains.

He says many of his clients save their whole life for retirement and often must spend it paying for nursing home and other long-term care needs.

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Tips to Finance Your Retirement Are you prepared?

Keep socking away as much as possible until you retire.

Are your credit cards paid off?

John Ostner, CLU, says carrying debt into retirement is one the biggest mistakes early retirees make. Ostner, a chartered financial consultant and owner of Retirement Advisors of Arkansas in Little Rock, says, “Debt is the largest and most frequent mistake. An abundance of credit card debt is the absolute worst financial mistake possible,” he warns. “We advise people to pay off all credit card debt before retiring, for it is visible evidence of living outside your means.

If you can’t pay it off while working, how can you possibly pay it off when you’re no longer

earning an income?” Ostner advises getting rid of credit card debt by age 50 because if you are forced into early retirement, the debt becomes a significant burden.

Jeff Knoedl, RFC and president of Knoedl Retirement Advisors of Maumelle, warns against, “adding more debt, such as a new car or larger house, instead of reducing debt during retirement.”

Another way some retirees “add debt” in retirement, according to Ostner is “needy” children. He says that “children who need financial

The Good Life Starts Here!

Crown Point Retirement is licensed by the state as an Assisted Living Level II facility. We can care for you or your loved one up to the level of care that forces many people into nursing homes.

Assisted Living facilities are designed to respect the individual needs of those who require some assistance in daily activities, but do not require 24-hour skilled medical care.

We have 5 different apartment options to choose from. Our caring staff is prepared to make you feel at home throughout changing health conditions.

We Accept Medicaid.

Crown Point Retirement Center and Assisted Living 501 South Rose • Sheridan, AR 72150 870-942-4623 www.crownpointretirement.com 16 august, 2012 MATURE ARKANSAS

help for any number of reasons can be devastating to retirement planning.”

Optimize Social Security benefits Taking Social Security benefits too early is the most frequent mistake pre-retirees make, according to Gary Robertson, LUTCF, FSS, and a PlanMyBenefit.com of Maumelle preferred counselor. Robertson says there are three serious financial mistakes pre-retirees make when deciding when to take their Social Security benefits: “File early while still working (benefits fall subject to the “earnings test”); filing early with no need for the income, and not understanding certain election strategies.”

The earnings test is applied to anyone who starts retirement benefits early (age 62). The Social Security Administration (SSA) will withhold $1 for every $2 you earn over $14,640 until the year in which you reach your normal retirement age (NRA). Once you attain NRA no earnings test applies.

Robertson adds that many divorced people, “are not aware that they may be entitled to a portion of their ex-spouse's benefits, even if the divorced spouse is deceased. And very few individuals are aware of any of the switching opportunities available to them.”

Ostner says it is a mistake to distrust the Social Security system. “Many people take the benefits as soon as they are available at 62, because they simply don’t trust the system to either be in existence for their lifetime or believe they might die quickly and want to at least get some of their money back,” he says.

“The delay of payments each year after 62 creates an additional 8% income gain for each year until age 70.”

Failing to “coordinate a couple’s Social Security elections with their retirement income plan, or not having established a retirement income plan,” Robertson says can be an expensive mistake. “Remember, Social Security is a guaranteed, inflation-adjusted, tax-preferred, lifetime income. Most sources of income do not share those four facts,” he says.

Consider inflation Ostner says it is dangerous planning mistake to ignore the impact of inflation. “Living longer is a wonderful opportunity, but money tied up in fixed savings accounts and CDs will be ravaged by creeping inflation, and your retirement income will buy a lot less.”

Are you planning?

“Retirees can expect to live possibly 30 years.

They must get the right mix of risk and safety of their retirement assets, to avoid running out of money,” advises Joe Marriott, president of Marriott Wealth Advisors, Inc. of Lonsdale.

“Too much risk can be a sure fire recipe for having to work another five years or even worse, having to go back to work after five years of retirement. How much risk should you take?” Marriott says, before you answer that question you must first determine how much money you will need for a comfortable Moving accounts retirement. “Many retirees are effectively very surprised at how expensive “At retirement, one of the most costly the first three years of retirement mistakes,” according to Gary Garrison, presiare,” he says. dent of Asset Protection Wealth Management Knoedl says it can be a costly mistake “to get in Little Rock, “is receiving your 401K by check advice from an adviser who is not a retirement payable to you. There is a mandatory federal specialist and speculating (gambling) by trying 20% withholding tax deducted from your lump to manage their own money with an online sum, when the check is mailed to you. account. This is dangerous because most H d an n tio The better approach is to do a direct rollinvestors buy and sell based on emotions,” he ca va to you how We can show r! over to an IRA (individual retirement account). says. nnies on the dolla pe an pay just When the lump sum payment is sent directly to He advises a visit to www.arkansas.bbb. another financial institution, the full payment org and www.ethics.net to make sure your is sent, and it’s non-taxable until withdrawn,” financial adviser does not have a history of CORONADO CENTER s Entetc. t he says. complaints, bankruptcy, felonies, We ertaini men th h d s e n r ng f TUESDAY, APRIL 15 a e & R n I n . o format d i ive! acat lar! provide 7PM-8PM F l to v Refinancing might help Don’t go into retirement with your mortgage still in the 8% range, advises Ostner. “Don’t ignore the marvelous re-financing options available today,” he says.

Ostner advises against borrowing from your 401K plan. “The ‘elephant in the room’ is that sudden job loss that forces a taxable distribution of that loan amount,” he says. “Unless the person can come up with a quick repayment, then the taxes from that distribution can be stunning!”

Retirees can

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Robertson says, when choosing a financial adviser, ask about “the adviser’s experience and credentials. Don’t assume that just because the firm’s name is recognizable the individual you get has the knowledge, tools and ability to set up a proper retirement plan.”

Robertson notes that the SSA will not help you determine when to start your benefits. “In fact, they are prohibited from giving any advice as to when would be the best time to start benefits or when you might want to use a switching technique,” Robertson says. “They are only allowed to give amounts at given ages unless you are aware of exactly what to ask.”

Ostner says widows are often financially vulnerable when planning for retirement. “Many women have ignored the financial side of their married life and sometimes men just haven’t been good planners. We advise women to participate in the planning process and take an active role in the actions taken on their behalf,” he says.

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What you can do now Our experts also offer concrete recommendations about positive steps to ensure your retirement income is sufficient and stable.

• Keep saving. “The most important financial action is to keep socking away as much as possible until you retire,” Garrison says. For many baby boomers, this means staying in the work force in some capacity (free-lance consulting, work part-time, or capitalize a hobby).

According to an AARP survey, about 80% of baby boom-generation retirees want to keep working after they retire.

• Reduce your exposure in the stock market. Garrison says this will “significantly reduce risk in your retirement plan. This will protect the lump sum you have worked years to accumulate from a potential significant drop in the market and drop in your retirement plan just before retiring. You can’t afford a big loss because of lack of time to make it back,” he says.

• Protect income of surviving spouse by insuring that your income will continue to them after your death.

• Proper planning is most important, according to Ostner. “A well thought out plan doesn’t need to be complicated, but it does need to be discussed, written and agreed to by both parties, if married,” he says. He works with couples to agree on what their required or fixed expenses are and what’s optional or variable. He adds, “Provision needs to be made for surprises, for they’re almost always negative-the a/c goes out, roof leaks, uninsured medical expenses and the list goes on and on.”

• Start on your long-term care planning in your early 50s, Ostner advises, ”while health is usually still good enough to enact an insurance solution, if possible.”

• Pay attention to your distribution plan. Robertson says your retirement income plan becomes your distribution plan prior to retirement.

But, “the two have very different purposes. “Accumulation, preservation and distribution are distinct phases and often times include legacy planning as well. A distribution plan needs to make sure you will not outlive your assets,” he says.

Robertson suggests creating your retirement distribution plan at

Many retirees are very

surprised at how expensive the first

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least five years prior to retiring.

It should include: Social Security, pensions, 401-K or 403-B plans, IRAs, other sources of income, as well as the health of the individual or couple.

“The benefit of starting at least five years prior to retirement is so your advisor can make sure your accumulated assets are safe from market losses, that your retirement income will meet your current and future (inflated) needs, also look at expected taxes and inflation during retirement,” Robertson says. “Very few people look at the tax implications of retirement income and how that will affect taxes owed on their Social Security benefits.”

• Plan to protect income for life. Knoedl says taking a fixed monthly income from a variable account (i.e. stocks, bonds, mutual funds) can be dangerous. Instead, consider fixed and hybrid annuities to build an income plan or personal pension that will protect yours and your spouse’s income for life. Stay away from variable annuities that have high fees and are subject to market volatility. Knoedl advises rolling over 401-Ks or other qualified plans to an IRA. Traditional pension plans are disappearing and have been replaced with 401K plans, IRAs and other self-directed retirement-funding options.

Knoedl advises single people and widowed persons to be more cautious. “Bad financial advice could delay or keep them from retiring because they have no spouse’s income.”

• Plan to reduce taxes and fees. “What we have found in our practice is that people are frustrated by the fact that they purchased financial or insurance products and then found out how they affected their retirement planning later,” according to Joe Marriott. ”You and your advisor cannot just focus on accumulating assets. You must plan ahead to cut future tax bills, avoid unwanted risks, reduce investment expenses and obtain adequate rates of return.”

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hen I write about investing and personal finance, I sometimes get caught up in terms that may be intimidating and confusing.

One of the most tried-and-true investing concepts is that of risk versus reward. For our purposes, I’ll use three color-coded categories: Red, yellow and green. Look at them as traffic signals on your investment journey.

RED: Stop and look; these offer high potential returns, but are potentially much riskier than other investments. “Red” investments include stocks, stock-based mutual funds and exchange-traded funds.

Volatility is abundant in the “red” zone. If you pursue investing here, you should stop and look carefully at market conditions, your financial situation, your distance from retirement and your risk tolerance.

For most mature investors, the “red” group would ideally make up a percentage of their portfolio but it should decrease with time.

YELLOW: Proceed with caution; the “yellow” group of investments has mid-level returns and carries corresponding mid-level risk. Bonds and bond-based mutual funds

It’s never too late to create a diverse investment portfolio.

CONSUMER

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ome Arkansas health insurance customers may have a refund coming this summer, thanks to the Affordable Care Act. Nationwide, about 12.8 million consumers will receive $1.1 billion in refunds, due to the new healthcare reform law’s requirement that insurance companies spend 85% of the premiums they collect on actual healthcare (80% for individual and small-group plans). If insurers spend less than that, they have to send customers a rebate for the difference.

Here are the preliminary figures of what insurers will owe Arkansas customers, according to Consumers Union: Individual Market: Golden Rule Ins Co: $17,449 Humana Ins Co: $242,900 Mega Life & Health Insurance Co.: $273,296 Total: $533,645 Large Employer Market (more than 50 employees): Connecticut General Life Ins. Co.: $124,684 United Healthcare Ins Co: $1,416,386 United Healthcare of AR Inc: $45,540 Total: $1,586,610

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fall into this category. As the color indicates, it’s wise to mix these into a portfolio with lower-risk assets. The “yellow” group finds a seat in many portfolios as the investor passes major adulthood milestones— after children have entered elementary school, for example, or as job promotions come along. As their retirement timetable shortens, investors should begin shifting from “red” to “yellow” investments to reduce exposure to risk and to transition into our third category.

GREEN: Good to go; green should be the foundation of most investment strategies. The “green” group features certificates of deposit, fixed annuities and index annuities. Many of the “green” components have been around for several decades, and while they don’t offer flashy returns they are a comparatively secure way to invest. If you have a low tolerance for risk, or a short timeline before retirement, a portfolio made up primarily of “green” vehicles is most appropriate. It’s also sound strategy for investors to incorporate a higher percentage of “green” investments into their mix as time for retirement draws near and ultimately arrives. Investment vehicles with a high rate of return carry a high risk of loss. Conversely, those investments with a low return rate have lower risk. Your goal should be to balance your investments using the “red-yellow-green” model in a way that can maximize your returns and minimize your risk.

It’s never too late to create a diverse investment portfolio. Work with a financial advisor to get a personalized set of recommendations suited for your lifestyle and retirement goals.

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Small Employer Market (50 or fewer employees): United Healthcare Ins Co: $655,243 USAble Mutual Ins Co: $5,011,680 Total: $5,666,923 Insurance companies must refund/rebate by August 1, 2012. They may either send you a check or reduce the first month’s premium due after August 1, 2012. For group plans through employment, employers must share refunds with their workers based on the percentage of the total premium that the worker paid.

Who won’t get a refund Because government plans like Medicare and Medicaid have highly efficient administrative costs (about 3%), beneficiaries of these plans will not receive a refund.

Medicare Advantage plans, free-standing Part D prescription drug plans, and Medicare supplement policies (medigap) are subject to separate standards and will not owe rebates his year. However, Medicare Advantage plans will be held to this standard beginning in 2014.

Beneficiaries of the Veteran Affairs Healthcare System, TRICARE and self-insured plans are not subject to this requirement.

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At the Senior Evaluation & Counseling Center we work with families dealing with a loved one who is experiencing: • Disorientation or confusion • Difficulty recognizing familiar objects or people • Increased irritability or aggressiveness • Increased withdrawal from social contract • Poor judgment with money or possessions • Changes in self care or hygiene • Problems with medication compliance

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Th e Ag e of T echnology n B y K ell y F erguson

Grandparents Need a Smart Phone

M

ike Ferguson now has a smart phone. cell phone companies for generally making Dear Readers: You must be thinking, plans “unlimited calling, anytime.” We have “Who is that and why should I care?” a reprieve from the 9:00 PM Saturday phone Mike Ferguson, 63, is my Dad, and despite calls with Dad. the harassment from his children and my Mom, This summer, my parents took a road trip he has been a hold out for the smart phone for to Holiday World in Santa Claus, Indiana, with a long time. my 4-year-old daughter. This trip — filled with My Mom jumped on board early. She has roller coasters and water parks and lots of sugar Facebook, and realized the importance of — was an adventure. needing to update her grandkiddos’ accomDad wanted one thing before the trip — plishments or share a photo of her roses as the smart phone. I was amazed and a little quickly as humanly possible.

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Dad had done his research and The phone New York Times Sales Corporation 1-800-972-3550 620 Eighth Avenue,Call: New York, N.Y.a10018 one. He liked being able to call all ofFor us Information on “free knew having smart phone would make this For Thursday, 2, 2012 For Information Call:August 1-800-972-3550 nights and weekends,” and he did. Thanks to trip easier.

For Friday, July a6,lot 2012

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He could

check his email

He had these benefits: • To p - q u a l i t y, 8-megapixel photos he can send to me (or to my mom to share on Facebook from her phone). He also had a handheld photo album.

• Voice-activated location information about restaurants, places for potty breaks, weather information and road conditions.

• Handheld GPS (global-posiEdited by Will Shortz No. 0628 tioning satellite) navigation Edited by Will Shortz No. 0601 56 Singer with the • Downloadable apps for finding 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 43 Attempt 1990 #1toalbum 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 cheap gasoline, coupons and even “To the recall theExtreme” 14 15 16 11 12 13 passed? games for my daughter to play while 58 Con 17 18 19 59 “___ gets halfway 44 Stunned, in a way 14 they waited for dinner and in line at 15 16 around the world 20 21 22 45 German the park. …”

18 composer with a 17 24 25 26 • He could check his email right 60palindromic Apple salesname 23 19 20 61 Applesauce from the phone, and that was the real 27 28 29 30 eponym 21 22 selling point. Dad loves his email.

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1-800-814-5554. bucket for couples Annual are available forfor thethe best of of Sunday Annualsubscriptions subscriptions are available best Sunday 19 Map (out) crosswords last 5050 years: 1-888-7-ACROSS. crosswordsfrom fromthe the last years: 1-888-7-ACROSS. 15 Valentine verse AT&T to to 386 to to download puzzles, or visit AT&Tusers: users:Text TextNYTX NYTX 386 download puzzles, or visit 24 Lucy’s man starter nytimes.com/mobilexword forfor more information. nytimes.com/mobilexword more information.

25 Render harmless Online Today’s puzzle and more than 2,000 past Onlinesubscriptions: subscriptions: Today’s puzzle and more than 2,000 past 16 Reach an ($39.95 a year).

28 Mrs. ___, “Beauty puzzles, puzzles,nytimes.com/crosswords nytimes.com/crosswords ($39.95 a year). agreement Sharetips: tips:nytimes.com/wordplay. nytimes.com/wordplay. and the Beast” Share solvers: nytimes.com/learning/xwords.

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22 august, 2012 MATURE ARKANSAS

right from the

phone, and that was the real

selling point.

Dad loves his email.

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HI K I NG W I T H LEE HI L L E R

Sunset Trail Spectacular …any time of day or year

T

he first time I hiked the Sunset Trail in Hot Springs National Park I was enthralled by the diversity of terrain, wildlife and plants.

Mixed forests give way to rock ridges, then descend into grassy meadows. Most trails within Hot Springs National Park are less than two miles. The Sunset stretches 10 miles. Divided into three sections, hikers can complete a single portion or the entire trail. Each section has its own unique features or it makes a wonderful all-day-hike--from the top of West Mountain around to the National Park Campground at Gulpha Gorge.

Section one (2.9 miles): The trailhead and parking are located at the top of the West Mountain Road, with its entrance on Whittington Ave. this section includes the stone ruins of a hiker’s hut built in 1924, many rock formations, plus the always soaring black and turkey vultures. The trail begins by traversing a rocky ridge among mixed hardwood trees.

It’s a perfect place to spot a variety of beautiful songbirds including the tiniest warblers. At the fork on Music Mountain (the highest point in the park at 1,405 feet) keep right and you will travel down into a forest sprinkled with wildflowers and rock formations. This section of the Sunset Trail ends at the Black Snake Rd. parking area.

Section two (2.8 miles): Trailheads are located on both Black Snake and Cedar Glades roads. The middle section crosses Sugarloaf Mountain and is the most remote location in the park. In late spring to autumn, wildflowers add vibrant color to the trail edges. From Black

Sugar Loaf Mountain’s Sunset Trail Snake Rd., a steep incline leads to the ridge top portion of the trail. The path soon seems to veer to the right, but please keep left to stay on the trail. The mixed forest leads you to a marked spur for the Balanced Rock Trail (best viewed late autumn to early spring as leaves can obscure the view). The last part of the trail is a steep downward slope covered in loose rock and ends at Cedar Glades Rd. Section three (4 miles): The trail head is located at the parking area at Cedar Glades Rd. The grassy entry quickly gives way to a hardwood and pine forest and it one of the best areas in the park to spot white tail deer.

You will cross a gravel service road but keep

going straight along the trail. Two miles in, the trail forks offering a side trip out to the Fordyce Peaks (round trip within park boundaries is three miles). At the bottom of the next mile the trail exits at the Ricks/Fordyce pond. Follow the pond and stream to the end of Stone Bridge Rd. and cross the road. Behind the barbeque restaurant is the hidden continuation of the Sunset Trail that follows the old Gorge Rd. leading you to Gulpha Gorge campground.

Wildlife and wildflowers are plentiful along all sections of the Sunset Trail and vary with the seasons. In sections or hiking the whole trail, the Sunset is worth the journey because of the everchanging scenery and abundant wildlife.

Sunset Trail Maps available: At the Fordyce Bath House on Central Ave. or online at http://www. nps.gov/hosp/planyourvisit/hiking-trailslist.htm# Trail head: Hot Springs National Park, top of West Mountain Points of interest: Stone bridge, Balance Rock, views and wildflowers Level: Rugged/moderate to difficult Duration: 4-6 hours if hiking whole 10 mi.

Footwear: Boots Wheelchair access: No Ricks/Fordyce Pond at the end of the Sunset Trail.

Photos by Lee Hiller, HikeOurPlanet.com

MATURE ARKANSAS

august, 2012

23

24 august, 2012 MATURE ARKANSAS