Life After 50 - October 2014

LOS ANGELES METRO OCTOBER 2014

southern california

lifeafter50.com

Rich

Little

In His Own Voice Sustaining Hope in the Wake of a Cancer Diagnosis New York, New York It’s a Holiday Town A Parkinson’s Primer Vital Information for Patients, Family Members and Friends

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Contents

October 2014

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23

Cover Profile

16 Rich Little – In His Own Voice

The legendary impressionist on his career, the showbiz and political giants he’s worked with, and how he really feels about getting older.

features 23 The Days Of Booze And Bunnies

Take a hop back in time to the excitement and entertainment of the Playboy Clubs.

27 Sustaining Hope in the Face of Breast Cancer

Valuable information on retaining hope if cancer is diagnosed.

29 A Parkinson’s Primer

Information, understanding and support for patients, family members, friends and care partners.

34 The Look Of Life After 50 – Dawn Wells

The “Gilligan’s Island” star has become a modern-day messenger for Mary Ann morals.

Cover photo by Sampsel and Preston Photography/Courtesy of RLP, Inc All material published within this issue of “Life After 50” and on www.lifeafte50.com is strictly for informational and educational purposes only. No individual, advice, product or service is in any way endorsed by “Life After 50” or Southland Publishing, Inc. or provided as a substitute for the reader’s seeking of individualized professional advice or instruction. Readers should seek the advice of qualified professional on any matter regarding an individual, advice, recommendations, services or products covered within this issue.

All information and material is provided to readers with the understanding that it comes from various sources from which there is no warranty or responsibility by “Life after 50” or Southland Publishing, Inc. as to its or their legality, completeness or technical accuracy.

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DePartments 06 50-Plus: What You Need to Know

A quick look at things 50-plusers should be aware of.

09 Financial Fitness

William Jordan addresses the concerns of retirees running out of money.

10 It’s The Law

Mitchell A. Karasov on making peace-of-mind provisions.

26 Cooking, Eating And Living Well

Jackie Keller on making research-tested happiness boosters your goal.

33 Tuned In To What’s On

The best in October television viewing.

39 Let’s Get Out

Looking to get out and about? Our October/November calendar has some great suggestions.

42 Traveling Around…The Corner…And The World

New York City offers must-see holiday magic that is unsurpassed and unforgettable.

46 And Finally…The Bookworm’s Best, A Look Back and Just A Thought Before We Go

Our October book suggestion, memory, and a little something to leave you with.

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Editor’s Note...

Coming Clean On “The Question”

G “

inger or Mary Ann?” While working on this month’s issue, which includes a feature on Dawn Wells, who played Mary Ann on “Gilligan’s Island,” I was besieged with that question by just about everyone who knew I would be interviewing her.

Right up there with “the chicken or the egg” and “the meaning of life,” it seems the “Ginger or Mary Ann” question is one that guys have been pressed to answer since the seven stranded castaways first crawled onto the shore of that desert isle back in 1964.

A pop-psychological parlor game question that is more typically asked to ascertain insight on a guy’s psyche rather than his simple preference as to whom he would prefer to be marooned with – the glamorous and worldly Ginger Grant or the all-American farmgirl Mary Ann Summers – the question, and its answer, have inspired endless (and usually alcohol-fueled) debates, essays, sermons and even psychological profiles.

As for the answer: since the question was first posed a half-century ago, the wholesome ingénue has always outpolled the sexy siren by a sizable margin.

Whenever I’ve been so questioned, I have typically skirted answering with the type of avoidance that members of Congress reserve for, well, everything.

While I did date a few Mary Anns, and even had a longterm relationship with one, the vast majority of females I have been romantically involved with have been Gingers. I also married the Gingeriest of Gingers.

So do I prefer the glamour-girl type? Maybe – although that doesn’t really fit with my other preferences. I am not a foodie. In fact, I have a real distaste for arrogantly fancy and fussy eats. I’m the

same with wine, which I like, but couldn’t tell a $5 bottle from a $5,000 one. I’ve never been enamored of cars. Whether it be the Rolls Royce of cars (which I guess, would in fact, be a Rolls Royce) or some sexy speedster, I couldn’t care less. Basically, I’m a pretty content chap with simple tastes, very few needs and hardly any wants. So perhaps it is the Mary Ann lack of pretension I am attracted to.

While “the question” was never posed to me directly by Wells (thank God!), she did offer her reasons as to why Mary Ann always betters Ginger when it’s asked. “Mary Ann didn’t flaunt her sex appeal, but she had it,” she told me. “She was attainable, as a girlfriend or a friend – someone you could trust. Everyone related to her – young boys, girls, moms, dads. She was a very giving person – a team player who had a strong moral compass. Ginger, on the other hand, was a movie star, and wanted to be treated like one. If you analyze all the characters on the show, she did the least to help in any situation. That was because she would have been used to having things done for her.”

Well, okay, I agree with that, although it doesn’t really do anything to secure my vote one way or another.

I guess, if you really want my answer as to what television character I would prefer to be marooned with on a desert isle, here it is: I would be thrilled with either Ginger or Mary Ann for a few weeks. By then, because I’m no builder or fisher or hunter, I’d probably be ready to turn in either of them for Angus MacGyver.

David Laurell, Editor-in-Chief

Advertising Director/Associate Publisher Valarie Anderson Editor David Laurell Editorial Assistants Steve Stoliar, Marie Giusto Blauvelt, Max Andrews Associate Editor Claire Yezbak Fadden Travel Editor Ed Boitano Art Director Ernesto Esquivel Account Executives Los Angeles/South Bay: Jackie Kooper Jackiek@lifeafter50.com Orange County: Herb Wetenkamp Herbw@lifeafter50.com San Diego County National Accounts: Phil Mendelson Phil@lifeafter50.com VP Of Finance Michael T. Nagami Human Resources Andrea E. Baker Business Manager Linda Lam Billing Supervisor Kacie Sturek VP Of Operations David Comden For advertising/distribution inquiries contact: Valarie Anderson (310) 822-1629 x 121, Valarie@lifeafter50.com To contact our editorial department: (818) 563-1007 davidl@lifeafter50.com To contact our travel editor: (818) 985-8132 eboitano@lifeafter50.com 5355 Mcconnell Ave LA CA 90066 Valarie Anderson Valarie@lifeafter50.com 310 822-1629 x 121 Follow us on face book ©2014 Southland Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved

4 LIFEAFTER50.COM October 2014

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A Read That’s Hard To Beat

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PLUS

What You Need to Know

By Claire Yezbak Fadden

ich in personal detail and the history of pop and Latin music from the 1970s and ’80s, the world-renowned singer, drummer and percussionist Sheila E’s justreleased autobiography, “The Beat of My Own Drum” (Atria Books, 2014), is a unique glimpse into this fascinating woman’s life. Born Sheila Escovedo in 1957, she started making music at the age of three, inspired by her legendary father, percussionist Pete Escovedo. Her memoir, rife with stories of Carlos Santana, Prince, Marvin Gaye, Lionel Richie and Ringo Starr, is also a heartbreaking and ultimately redemptive look at how the sanctity of music can save a person’s life. Having endured sexual abuse as a child, Sheila credits her parents, music and God with giving her the will to carry on and to build a lasting legacy.

The Signs Of Suicide

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lthough the initial shock and sting of Robin Williams’ death have subsided, Americans are still bewildered over why the beloved comedic actor took his own life. Sadly, the suicide rate for Americans from 45 to 64 has jumped more than 30 percent in the last decade, according to a recently released Centers for Disease Control report. And, as with Williams, the suicide rate among white, middle-aged men has jumped by more than 50 percent and is among the top five causes of death of men in their 50s. The situation is even more dramatic for white, middle-aged women, who experienced a 60 percent rise in suicide in that same period.

If you have a friend or loved one you may be concerned about, please find a way to have an open and honest discussion with him or her about your concerns. While some who are contemplating suicide are good at masking their intent, there are usually signs that may include: • Prolonged sense of sadness and depression • Withdrawal from friends and activities • Reduced ability to concentrate • Expressing excessive fears or worries • Extreme mood changes • Detachment from reality • Major changes in eating habits and/or alcohol or drug use • Excessive anger, hostility or violence • Talk of committing suicide If you know someone who displays any of those traits, offer encouragement and support, help them find a qualified help, and make an appointment. If you

ever find yourself in a situation that someone has done self-harm or is seriously considering doing so, call for emergency help right away.

• Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.

• Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at (800) 273-8255. Use that same number and press 1 to reach the Veterans Crisis Line.

Fifty Candles

Happiness Is Contagious

ifty years ago this month, the Free Speech Movement was launched at the University of California-Berkley; the Summer Olympic games opened in Tokyo; Martin Luther King Jr. won the Nobel Peace Prize; China became the world’s fifth nuclear power; the New York Yankees fired Manager Yogi Berra; Northern Rhodesia became the independent Republic of Zambia, ending 73 years of British rule; and the Rolling Stones made their first appearance on “The Ed Sullivan Show.” Notables born in October 1964 who are celebrating their 50th birthday this month include chef Bobby Flay, singer and songwriter Toby Mac, California State Attorney General Kamala Harris, actors Clive Owen and Michael Boatman, NASA astronaut Sandra Magnus and reality television show host Ty Pennington.

appiness spreads far and wide through a social network, according to researchers from the University of California San Diego and Harvard Medical School. The study of some 5,000 people shows that happiness loves company. Happy people tend to cluster together and, on the surface, people with more social contacts seem generally happier. Contentment spreads in a social network up to three degrees of separation: You are 15 percent more likely to be happy if directly connected to a happy person; 10 percent if it’s the friend of a friend who is happy; and six percent if it’s the friend of a friend of a friend. On average, every happy friend increases your own chances of being happy by nine percent, while each unhappy friend decreases it by seven percent.

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6 LIFEAFTER50.COM October 2014

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A Little More You Need To Know

Where You Need To Go Photos courtesy of Maria Bryk/Newseum

The Boomer List: Photographs By Timothy Greenfield-Sanders

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oday’s 50-plusers have had a profound impact on the world, shaking up attitudes about sex, race and politics, and leaving their mark on everything from science and technology to art and music. As part of a yearlong celebration of the last of the baby boomers turning 50 this year, the Newseum in Washington, D.C. has opened The Boomer List: Photographs by Timothy GreenfieldSanders, an exhibit featuring 19 large-format portraits of influential 50-plusers taken by Timothy Greenfield-Sanders – one born each year of the baby boom, from 1946 to 1964.

Greenfield-Sanders, an award-winning photographer and filmmaker, chose subjects who reflect the depth, diversity and talent of their generation. Among the 19 men and women selected for The Boomer List are actor Samuel L. Jackson, singer and songwriter Billy Joel, fashion designer Tommy Hilfiger, author Amy Tan, journalist Maria Shriver, environmentalist Erin Brockovich, and artist David LaChapelle.

In addition to the 19 portraits, a timeline of historic

New Words

Y

ou might not find them in a dictionary yet, but they’re a part of the everyday American vocabulary. Here’s what they mean.

Catfished: Being romantically deceived over social media outlets such as Facebook by someone who isn’t who they claim to be.

Cyberbaiting: The act of taunting someone until they lose self-control while recording the unprofessional behavior and then posting the video on social networking sites.

Jelly: Shortened version of jealous.

events that defined the baby boom generation will also be displayed along with a collection of iconic boomer artifacts including an original 1959 Barbie doll, a 1964 G.I. Joe action figure, a transistor radio and a U.S. Army draft card from 1965.

The exhibition, which will run through July 2015, will also features a “scent station” with memorable aromas familiar to boomers including whiffs of baby powder to represent the 76 million-plus babies born between 1946 and 1964; fresh-cut grass, a reminder of the move to the suburbs; and incense, evoking the musky aroma of rebellion, flower power and love-ins.

The Newseum is located at 555 Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, D.C. For more information, click on www. newseum.org.

The Most Important Thing To Know This Month

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hile most Americans are aware that October is football season, it is also National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This year, the National Football League is once again proud to support the cause with their nationwide campaign, A Crucial Catch that was established in 2009 and has raised more than $6 million to fight breast cancer. Presented in collaboration with the American Cancer Society, the program promotes breast cancer awareness and encourages women 40 and older to get annual mammograms to catch breast cancer in the early stages, when treatment is most successful.

During the 2014 campaign players are sporting special NFL shield/pink ribbon stickers on their helmets with pink sideline towels, gloves, and cleats also being provided. Coaches and team executives are wearing pink ribbon pins, and game officials are donning pins and special pink ribbon hats. Special footballs with pink ribbon logos are also being used in each game and all NFL football fields are featuring the A Crucial Catch pink ribbon stencil on their 25-yard lines.

In addition, many teams will extend the reach of the NFL’s nationwide platform through local grassroots efforts focused on promoting breast cancer screenings, honoring breast cancer survivors, and planning special in-stadium or pregame events in partnership with the society.

A Crucial Catch will also be highlighted on NFL Network and www.NFL.com with a special microsite, NFL.com/pink that will feature stories of women who have benefited from breast cancer programs in their community.

You can be a part of this exciting campaign in numerous ways: * Sign up online at www.NFL.com/pink, start a team and do fundraising to show your support.

You will be equipped with all the online tools you need. * Challenge your local schools and organizations to sign up and create teams and friendly competitions. * Wear pink throughout the month of October, on game day and every day. * Click on www.NFL.com/pink to bid on footballs and game-worn pink items that will be auctioned with all proceeds benefiting the American Cancer Society. You can also purchase pink-accent sideline hats and other pink campaign items at all NFL stadiums or by clicking on www.

NFLSHOP.com.

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8 LIFEAFTER50.COM October 2014

Financial Fitness William Jordan

William Jordan is a nationally recognized wealth manager and a wellknown speaker on financial and investment topics. To request a meeting to discuss William’s “Seven Percent Solution,” contact his office at (949) 916-8000 or click on www.WJAoc.com.

What If You Run Out of Money?

A

s a wealth manager and financial advisor to those in or soon to enter retirement, the question “What will happen if I run out of money?” is posed to me as often as any other. It is the first and most-significant issue to address.

The questions “Could I run out of money?” or “How much can I spend without running out of money?” are at the heart of financial planning. Spend too much too soon and a bad year such as 2008 can jeopardize your entire retirement.

Spend too little for too long, and you will wake up one day realizing you sacrificed your lifestyle needlessly and are now sitting on a pile of money you could not possibly spend.

Given this dilemma, I say, without hesitation, that most people who have actively saved for retirement work longer than they need to, retire later than they could, and spend less money in the first 10 years of retirement than they should.

If you hope to retire sooner or are already retired and would enjoy a higher level of income right now, read on.

How much can I spend?

In general, most financial advisors will use an annual income number between 4.1 and 4.7 percent of your investment portfolio. This means with a milliondollar portfolio, you are looking at between $41,000 and $47,000 of income. I believe we can do better.

Depending on the client’s situation, I have found that annual incomes of 5.2 to 5.7 percent are possible with no risk to principal, and incomes of 6.3 to as high as 7.2 percent are possible with some risk. The bottom line: someone with a million dollars could be receiving anywhere from $11,000 to $31,000 more income each year with the proper planning.

The first key factor is your safe-money rate of return. I have often written and spoken about how investors can earn seven percent on their safe money even in today’s environment, so I won’t elaborate on that point. However, if you have missed those articles, contact our office for a free copy of my book, “The Seven Percent Solution.”

The second key factor is your willingness to take any principal risk with your investments. Some clients prefer to have a plan giving them less income, but with no possible risk of running out of money. For some, knowing there is no way they could ever run out of money is well worth taking a lower annual distribution. For others, they are willing to leave some of their money in the stock market or other somewhat risk-oriented investments, because it will give them a higher income over their retirement. Regardless of your comfort with risk, odds are you are receiving less income from your investments than you should.

Ironically, some of those who come into my office looking for more income are taking less because they have too much risk in their portf portfolio, not because they don’t have enough. If you have too great a percentage of your assets in risky investments (stocks, for example), it forces you to be overly cautious with your spending. After all, if there is the chance you could lose half of your investments, as happened to many in 2008, you have to take as little income as possible to protect yourself against that worst-case scenario.

Without reviewing a specific portfolio, I can’t completely speak to the issues of

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Making Provisions For Protection and Peace Of Mind

Q

My wife and I bought long term care insurance years ago when we set up our family trust. I’m really glad we had these plans, because she ended up needing a few years of care at home. The plan only covered a fixed amount below the cost for the first two years, so we had to withdraw substantial sums from our IRA savings to cover the difference until she passed. It was getting tough for me to pay the premium, since I only have a fixed income, my home and IRA accounts. My son started paying for the insurance so I would have the coverage for the care I will need. He tried to get me a better policy to cover everything, but I’m not eligible. After I pass, I want to make sure that he is reimbursed for that amount, as well as any other expenses my other kids have fronted or may help with in the future.

What documents could I add to my trust so that I am assured they will get reimbursed?

Letting your son help you with the long term care premiums was a wise decision. As you know, the long term care insurance provides you with more care options and minimizes the depletion of your estate for actual care costs. In addition, the policy maximizes your benefits-planning options to cover all or a substantial portion of your care costs. To make sure that your kids stand a better chance to recoup any expenses paid out for you at the end of your life, you have some options in addition to modifying your trust.

Your trust should include a provision that identifies any monies paid out by your children and the plan for payment. You may want to consider allowing repayment before your death, in the event you need to apply for Long Term Care MediCal benefits. You may also want to use similar language in your power of attorney for finances since you also hold non-trust assets. It would also be advisable to sign a promissory note on reasonable terms, including but not limited to any interest rate, terms to trigger repayment, and the potential for any additional sums loaned.

Since your long term care policy didn’t cover a significant portion of your wife’s care costs, it’s reasonable to assume that your policy doesn’t either.

Taking that into consideration and the fact that you’re not eligible for a new or additional policy, you would be a good candidate for Long Term Care MediCal planning. Unfortunately, most people that have a long term care policy don’t believe they can receive the benefit, or they mistakenly think their long term care policy is sufficient. Once you’re eligible for this Long Term Care MediCal program, the government can cover certain care costs above long term care insurance. Your trust and power of attorney for finance should include language about Long Term Care MediCal planning. Since one of your goals is to protect your children’s ability to receive reimbursement, I would encourage you to have a MediCal plan done at the same time.

If you take the steps above, you will be giving yourself, as well as your thoughtful children, protection and peace of mind. I wish you all the best. ª

A

Chicago Doctor Invents Affordable Hearing Aid Outperforms Many Higher Priced Hearing Aids

Reported by J. Page Chicago: Board-certified physician Dr. S. Cherukuri has done it once again with his newest invention of a medical grade ALL DIGITAL affordable hearing aid.

This new digital hearing aid is packed with all the features of $3,000 competitors at a mere fraction of the cost. Now, most people with hearing loss are able to enjoy crystal clear, natural sound—in a crowd, on the phone, in the wind — without suffering through “whistling” and annoying background noise.

New Digital Hearing Aid Outperforms Expensive Competitors This sleek, lightweight, fully programmed hearing aid is the outgrowth of the digital revolution that is changing our world.

While demand for “all things digital” caused most prices to plunge (consider DVD players and computers, which originally sold for thousands of dollars and today can be purchased for less then $100), yet the cost of a digital medical hearing aid remained out of reach.

Dr. Cherukuri knew that many of his patients would benefit but couldn’t afford the expense of these new digital hearing aids. Generally they are not covered by Medicare and most private health insurance.

Nearly Invisible!

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hat you are about to read may be the most important information you’ve ever read. Here is why.

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Rich

Little

In His Own Voice Story by David Laurell

The legendary impressionist’s impressions on the show business and political giants he’s worked with, why he doesn’t do many current stars, and how he really feels about getting older

W

ith each October comes Halloween, the one day of the year in which everyone can revel in the fun of being someone else. In a way, every day, for well over 60 years, has been Halloween for Rich Little who, as the world’s premier impressionist, has vocally transformed himself into just about every well-known person and character of the 20th century from Alan Ladd (his childhood hero), Gary Cooper, Clark Gable, Johnny Carson, George Burns, Edith Bunker, Kermit the Frog and Dr. Ruth Westheimer, to United States Presidents John F. Kennedy, Lyndon Johnson, Richard Nixon, Gerald Ford, Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan, Bill Clinton, both George Bushes and Barack Obama.

Born in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada in 1948, Richard Little was the second of three sons born to medical doctor Lawrence Little and his wife Elizabeth. Having discovered his talent for mimicry by imitating his teachers in grade school, young Rich honed his uncanny ability to do voices by carefully listening to the greats of the silver screen that starred in the films being shown at an Ottawa movie theater where he served as an usher.

By the time he was in his early teens, Little had partnered with a friend, Geoff Scott, who also had the ability to do impersonations, and the duo began performing professionally in night clubs that they otherwise would not have been old enough to enter.

Further honing his performance skills by appearing in productions staged by Ottawa’s Little Theatre, Little went on to pursue a career in broadcasting. Securing a job as a radio disc jockey and talk show host, who liberally peppered his banter with impressions, Little once used his microphone to stage an April Fool’s Day stunt by hosting an afternoon show as Elvis Presley. While the fallout was less dramatic than the thousands of American radio listeners who panicked, thinking the nation was under attack by aliens, when Orson

16 LIFEAFTER50.COM October 2014

Welles broadcast his infamous “War of the Worlds” program in 1938, Little’s gag saw his station besieged by more than 500 Presley fans who believed the “King of Rock ‘n Roll” was actually broadcasting from the studio.

Continuing to perform in night clubs and on Canadian television programs, Little met and befriended singer Mel Tormé who, at the time, was working with Judy Garland on the creation of a new variety show. When “The Judy Garland Show” came to fruition on CBS in 1964, the booking of Little marked his American television debut and served as a springboard that would propel him to the summit of the mimic mountain when he was still in his early 20s.

Embraced by American audiences from his appearances on the variety shows of Ed Sullivan, Jackie Gleason and Glen Campbell, the 1970s saw Little became a semi-regular on “The Dean Martin Celebrity Roasts,” “The Julie Andrews Hour” and “The John Davidson Summer Show.” Little also released nine albums, hosted his own variety program, “The Rich Little Show,” starred on the show “KopyKats,” and, due to his successful appearances on “The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson,” was tapped to guest host the venerable latenight chat show. That guest-hosting experience, along with Little’s uncanny impression of the show’s legendary host, saw him cast as Johnny Carson in the 1996 HBO production, “The Late Shift,” which chronicled the fight between David Letterman and Jay Leno to become Carson’s successor.

As an actor, Little has appeared in numerous shows including “The Young and the Restless,” “Fantasy Island,” “Chips,” “Murder She Wrote,” “Hawaii Five-O,” “MacGyver,” “Police Woman” and “Mannix.” He has also stepped in to assist other actors when they were unavailable or unable to complete productions. When David Niven became too ill to complete work on the 1983 film, “Curse of the Pink Panther,” Little provided the actor’s voice in postproduction dubbing. He did the same for Peter Sellers who had passed away prior to the completion of 1982’s “The Trail

Photos by Sampsel and Preston Photography/Courtesy of RLP, Inc

ªCover Profile ª

October 2014 LIFEAFTER50.COM 17

of the Pink Panther.” Over the years, Little has also provided the voice for other actors including Stacy Keach, Gene Kelly and Ernest Borgnine.

Along with his work in entertainment. Little, who became a United States citizen in 2010, has always been involved in charitable work to raise funds for the homeless, animals in need, and children. He has been inducted into Miami Children’s Hospital International Pediatrics Hall of Fame and been honored by the naming of the Rich Little Special Care Nursery at Ottawa Civic Hospital.

The father of two adult daughters, as well as a grandfather, Little, who lives in Las Vegas, has been touring with his “Laugh A Little” comedy show as well as his self-written, one-man play, “Jimmy Stewart and Friends.” Currently writing a book and a show about his remarkable life, Little, who will turn 76 next month, recently sat down with Life After 50 to share his impressions on his career, some of the legends he has impersonated, why he does very few current celebrities and his thoughts on the passing of time.

Our visit with “The Man of a Thousand Voices” began by asking him to recall those early days of his career.

Rich Little (RL): While I owe so much to Mel Tormé, I always joke that it was the actor James Mason who gave me my big break – although I had never met him and he had no idea who I was. I had done a lot of television in Canada, where I met Mel, and we became instant friends. At the time, he was doing some musical work on a variety show that Judy Garland was planning and he pitched me for

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the show. He played a tape of me doing my act for Judy who wasn’t very impressed, until I did James Mason, whom she had starred with in “A Star is Born.” She got such a kick out of that impression she said: “Book him.” Years later, I met Mason, who didn’t know me from Adam and I thanked him for giving me my first break. He looked at me like I was crazy and mumbled something [laughing].

Life After 50 (LA50): You first realized you had a gift to mimic people’s voices when you were very young doing impressions of your teachers at school. But there’s a big difference between being able to do voices and doing standup comedy. Did you also always feel you had the ability to be a comedian?

RL: That’s right that I started imitating teachers at school, which always got great reactions. But I never intended to be a comedian. When I first started performing professionally, as a kid, the thought of being a comic was the furthest thing from my mind. I always thought of myself as an impersonator. But I realized very soon that no matter how good of an impersonator you may be, you do have to be a comedian to some extent, because you have to be able to say something funny.

I have been very fortune, since the early days of my career, to have had a lot of great writers provide me with material. When I was doing the Dean Martin roasts, the writers on that show provided me with a lot of material. I would change things, but what they gave me was very helpful. I was also doing a lot of variety shows when I first came to the U.S. and the writers from those shows also provided me with great material. So I started to keep scrapbooks filled

with material and later learned that is the same thing Milton Berle and Bob Hope and Jack Benny did. I still have those books. It’s a library of jokes and material for each character I do.

LA50: Are there any voices you really have down but don’t do in shows because you just don’t have the right material for them?

RL: Yeah, there are a lot of voices I do of more obscure character actors that I really don’t have material for. But the real reason I would not do them in a show would be because they are not that well-known. You have to stay with the ones people know. That is why I love singing impressions.

People love them and because you have builtin material with the song, they are immediately recognizable. If I do Dean Martin singing “That’s Amore,” it totally works.

LA50: Speaking of Dean Martin, those old roasts Dean did were among some of the best television ever produced.

RL: I loved doing them, of course, and I think the Sinatra roast was the best of them all. Those roasts showcased some of the world’s most incredible performers – the likes of which we will never see again. That really was the golden age of comedy.

I was in a restaurant in Florida awhile back and there was a picture on the wall that was taken during the Sinatra roast. And there I was, my baby face amongst these giants and superstars of show business. I looked at it closely and it was very sad because, out of the 20 or so in the picture, there are only a couple of us still around – Don Rickles, Ruth Buzzi.

LA50: The roast of Jimmy Stewart captured one of your most classic performances – when you tried to teach him how to “do” Jimmy Stewart.

RL: [laughing] That was one of my all-time favorites. It really was all impromptu. It had not been planned. Jimmy and I had never discussed what we would do. I just knew that I would show him how to do him and then, when he tried, tell him he was doing it badly. That was the premise, but he and I had never discussed it. It was totally all adlibbed and it just worked perfectly. At the end of the bit he said: [going into his Stewart impersonation] “Wah-wha-wah-well now that’s not very good is it?” And I said: “Not good! That’s the WORST Jimmy Stewart I’ve ever heard!” I said that even the audience could do it better than him and then gave the entire audience a lesson on doing Jimmy Stewart. We got very lucky with that one, because it just worked so perfectly. Jimmy was actually very funny, in a dry way. He had a great sense of humor and when I started doing that bit, he knew exactly what I was going for.

LA50: Along with Stewart, one of your most popular impressions has been that of Johnny Carson. You were the first one to point out all of his hand gestures and quirks and tics. So here’s an observation for you to comment on: In his later years, Carson seemed to curtail some of those mannerisms a bit. Do you think he became a bit more self-conscious about his gestures after you started doing him so spot-on?

RL: I think that is true, yeah. I remember one time watching Carson doing his monologue and right in the middle of it he caught himself doing some

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classic Carson gesture and he stopped and said” “My God I’m doing Rich Little!” Once, when I was on “The Dinah Shore Show,” I was doing Carson and, unbeknownst to me, Johnny was backstage. So there I was doing Carson and all of a sudden, I felt someone come up behind me and tap me on the shoulder. I turned around and it was HIM! So we both started to do all of his little tics and mannerisms to one another. That was another great moment.

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LA50: When you began working professionally and on up through the 1970s or so, you had a treasure trove of people you did impersonations of.

Do you think it would it be fair to say that the art and the act of being an impressionist is somewhat dying today because, frankly, there just aren’t that many distinctive voices out there anymore?

RL: I totally understand what you’re saying. There are a lot of great – really great – actors out there today. But they are not of the same caliber of those from the 1940s through the 1970s. They don’t have, as you say, the distinctive voices.

There are no John Waynes or Humphrey Bogarts or Clark Gables today.

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LA50: If you stood onstage and did a Matthew McConaughey or Brad Pitt or a George Clooney impersonation, no one would know who you were doing.

RL: That’s right. They wouldn’t. Although they are the biggest stars of today.

You could do George Clooney to absolute perfection and I don’t think you would get the slightest reaction from an audience. The same is true of Tom Hanks or Matt Damon. They are great actors, but their voices are not distinctive like a Kirk Douglas or a Cary Grant.

LA50: Do you think that is due to the cultural homogenization of those who grew up in the television generation. Unlike those who grew up prior to the 1950s or early ‘60s, when people had very distinctive regional dialects or accents, those who grew up from the ‘60s on, no matter where they were from, listened to broadcasters and performers who had been trained that mannerisms and accents were distractions and so they developed that broadcast and acting school “I’m-from-nowhere” delivery.

RL: Yeah, that’s a very insightful observation and I think you’re right. I mean, look at the current crop of big stars on television and in the movies. There is no one who has the distinctive voices or mannerism of a Jimmy Stewart or a Gary Cooper or a Bob Hope, or Johnny Carson or Jack Benny. Now there were those from that past that I could never get, and even if I did get them to perfection, they would not have resonated with an audience because they were not distinct or unique. Rock Hudson is a perfect example of that – a huge star, but not one who would work for an impersonator. You have a lot more of that today. I can’t, off the top of my head, name a current star other than Jack Nicholson and Clint Eastwood that would be immediately recognizable if done by an impressionist.

Certainly no one under 50.

LA50: However, that is a different story when it comes to politicians, huh?

RL: Politicians, especially presidents, have always been the bread-and-butter for any impressionist. You have no choice when it comes to presidents – you HAVE to do them.

LA50: And you have done your impressions of many of them in their presence. Was that ever a bit intimidating?

RL: Well, I once did Nixon in front of him and it went over like a lead balloon [laughing]. He had no idea I was doing him and kept looking around uncomfortably saying: [going into his Nixon impression] “Pat, Pat…why is this young man speaking in such a peculiar way.” Oh, it was just terrible. But most of them loved it. I was once talking to Reagan and telling him how I had studied him and that I noticed he always begin everything he said with the word “well” and would then look down before he started talking. I asked him why he did that – always looked down – and he said: [doing Reagan] “Well, Rich – and there I go with the ‘well’ – if you owned a horse ranch you would find yourself always looking down, too.” [laughing] He was great.

LA50: Who are your audiences today? I mean, it’s sad to say, but it’s hard to imagine people under 30 even knowing who you would be doing half the time.

RL: That’s right. Young people today don’t come to my shows, because they have no interest in anything from the past. When I was a kid, I was always interested in the past. I was fascinated with the history of show business. I watched all the

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old stars and knew all their names I listened to the big bands. But today’s kids are only interested in their computers and their phones. They seem to have no interest in history and very little in conversation. When I was a kid, I loved to sit up on our stairs and eavesdrop on the conversations my parents had with their friends. I loved to hear what they were discussing and their different voices and laughs. I can’t imagine a kid doing that today. There seems to be – with the rare exception – a complete lack of interest in things from the past with young people today. They don’t know who John Wayne or Ed Sullivan or Jimmy Stewart or Humphrey Bogart were. And even if they know the names, or what they looked like, they wouldn’t know who I was doing if I were doing them. So I don’t get a young crowd, especially in Vegas where it tends to be older folks who go to the shows. Younger people are at the Hard Rock and going to concerts. They’re not coming to see me.

LA50: Rich, what is a typical day like for you when you are not working?

RL: Well, I work a lot. If I’m not doing a show, I’m working on my material.

I have also been working on a new show that will be about my life and all the giants of this world I’ve crossed paths with throughout my career. So I’ve been working on that and I’m also writing a book about my life that will be called “Little by Little: People I Have Known and Been.” When I’m not working, I like to read. I love biographies. I also love to watch movies – mostly the old ones. I see friends and will occasionally play golf – if no one is watching.

LA50: Your golf game could use some work?

RL: I was out on the course recently and had really duffed the ball badly off the tee and some kid who had been standing down the hill watching me yelled out: “That’s the worst Tiger Woods impression I’ve ever seen!”

LA50: One last question for you Rich. Every day we’re all getting a little bit older. Can you share your impression on aging?

RL: Yes! It sucks and there isn’t anything you can do about it [laughing].

For more information on Rich Little and his upcoming show schedule, click on www.richlittle.com. ª

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The Days of Booze And Bunnies In her new book, author Patty Farmer lets readers take a “Bunny” hop back in time to the bygone era of exhilarating excitement and entertainment at the Playboy Clubs

By David Laurell

S

o much has been written about Hugh Hefner and the Playboy organization – its philosophy and role in popular culture. But nothing had been written about the Playboy Clubs,” says author Patty Farmer, whose new book, “Playboy On Stage: A History of the World’s Sexiest Nightclubs” (Beaufort Books, 2014) will be released on November 17. “My book has nothing to do with anything that went on at the Playboy Mansion and in the grotto – none of that tabloidy-type stuff that has been written about many times over. My book is about the first-rate entertainment that was provided by the Playboy Clubs that, for over 20 years, were the largest employers of entertainment in the United States.”

When the first Playboy Club opened in Chicago in 1960, the nightclub concept had been in full swing across America for over 40 years. From New York’s Stork and Cotton Clubs to the hot spots of Los Angeles, such as Ciro’s and the Cocoanut Grove, supper and nightclubs had been gathering places for celebrities and the partying jet-setting elite since they began springing up in the 1920s.

While the addition of yet another night spot would have otherwise garnered little attention during the late winter of 1960, from the moment its doors were opened, the foray of Playboy Enterprises into the world of live adult club entertainment proved to be more than merely noteworthy.

“

The Hatching Of Hef’s Hutchs The Chitown Playboy Club, as well as the ones that soon followed in numerous cities throughout the U.S. and abroad, featured a Living Room where local musicians and magicians performed, a Playmate Bar, a Dining Room, and a Club Room that presented world-class entertainment. Admission to, and an evening at, the Playboy Club, was a sign of status for “key-holding” members and their guests, who were served food, cocktails and cigarettes (each priced at $1.50) by Playboy Bunnies, who had already become cultural icons via Playboy magazine.

“When Hugh Hefner opened that first Playboy Club, he gave regular guys the key to participate in his own personal dream,” says Farmer. “The clubs made the average guy feel special. I think the singer Fabian, whom I interviewed for the book, summed it up very well when he said that for the couple of hours a person was at a Playboy Club, they were made to feel like they were suave millionaires.”

Farmer says it was that premise – making the average guy feel special – that was at the core of the club’s success.

“Hefner was a brilliant businessman for many reasons,” Farmer opines. “And he has always been the ultimate host. I have been to his home quite a few times and he has always made me feel that I am welcome and wanted there. I think that had a lot to do with how people felt when they came to the clubs. When anyone stepped into a Playboy Club, they were made to feel that they had been extended a personal invitation to be there and that there was an excitement and an appreciation that they were there.”

While the opportunity to be a member and receive special treatment at a local Photo courtesy of Bettmann/Corbi October 2014 LIFEAFTER50.COM 23

“When Hugh Hefner opened that first Playboy Club, he gave regular guys the key to participate in his own personal dream.”

– Patty Farmer

Photo by Christina Krupka

yacht, golf or country club was beyond the financial reach of many, that coveted bunny-headed metal key (replaced by a “key card” in 1966) that gave one membership and entrance to a Playboy Club, could be attained by anyone who could fill out a brief application and write a check for $25.

“That was a part of Hefner’s brilliance,” says Farmer. Anyone, of any means, could become a member, and yet he gave a feeling of exclusivity to everyone who had a key. Any guy in the 1960s and ‘70s who had a Playboy Club key felt like they were hot stuff – like they were James Bond, who in one of the films [1971’s “Diamonds Are Forever”], opens his wallet and his Playboy Club card falls out.”

Citing Hefner as a genius at branding, Farmer says he took a word – “playboy” – which simply meant a bachelor who liked the finer things in life, and made it into something that, through the magazine and clubs, represented a lifestyle that resonated with people around the world.

“It was a little bit naughty, but it was something that gave a guy the sense of having made it – of having achieved a certain level of success,” says Farmer. “Again, that was a part of Hefner’s genius, that he could totally convince these young guys in their 20s, who, for the most part, had lives that were very average and not exceptional, that they were special. They may have even been still living with their parents, but once in a Playboy Club, they were suave and sophisticated playboys in their own right. Remember, Hefner’s audience were the children of those who lived through the Great Depression. They were people who, by the time they were in their 20s, had much more than their parents had when they were their age. Hefner and Playboy understood that and stepped right in to teach them things their parents couldn’t – how to properly stock a bar, what stereo equipment to purchase and what music to play, how to dress – how to establish a more sophisticated and worldly image and a lifestyle than their parents ever knew. Young people in the ‘60s and ’70s ate that up.”

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The Influenceof Playboy’s Power

While Farmer’s exceptionally well-researched and written tome chronicles the history of the Playboy Clubs, from their heyday to their waning days in the late 1980s and early 1990s, the book dwells mostly on the entertainment side of the clubs.

“When I decided to do this book, I wanted to tell the story of how important the Playboy Clubs were in providing a venue for singers and musicians and comedians of the era,” Farmer explains. “That had never been done before and I wanted the entertainers who worked those clubs – and in many cases, who got their start there – to share their amazing stories. I’m an entertainment historian and I love letting the entertainers themselves tell their stories – it’s an insider’s perspective that no one else can offer.”

According to Farmer, while many books have been written about the Playboy empire and Hefner, no book has covered the company’s impact on 20th-century entertainment. “At the height of their popularity in the mid 1960s and early ‘70s, the Playboy Clubs were, collectively, the largest employers of talent in the United States,” says Farmer. “As such, they exerted a powerful influence on the culture – and politics as well.”

The impact of the latter is pointed out in the book by the pioneering African-American humorist Dick Gregory, who recalls that Hefner and his staff were not only color blind in their hiring of talent, but also used the clubs, as well as the magazine, as a means of furthering an agenda of civil rights and gender equality.

Although Hefner himself was primarily a jazz fan, the range of acts presented in the clubs was always diverse.

From Tony Bennett, Liza Minnelli, Diahann Carroll and Ann-Margret to Sonny and Cher and Ike and Tina Turner,

on any given evening the Playboy Club’s spotlight shone down on a Who’s Who of talent, including Trini Lopez, Lily Tomlin, David Brenner, Jerry Van Dyke, Mitzi Gaynor, Steve Rossi, Joan Rivers, Bobby Rydell, and an up-andcoming impressionist from Canada, who just happens to grace our current cover – Rich Little.

Tapped to play the Miami Playboy Club on very short notice, Little, who was just starting his career in the U.S., told his agent he was working on a new act that he could not have ready that soon. “Don’t worry,” Little’s agent shot back. “With all those Bunnies serving drinks and dinner in skimpy outfits, no one will be paying any attention to you.”

“I played the Miami and Chicago clubs,” says Little, who once had a clandestine relationship with a Bunny (something that was strictly prohibited by Playboy). “When you played a Playboy Club you knew you would always have a very hip audience. They were typically younger crowds who were just great audiences because they were there purely to have a good time. I always felt it was an honor to play a Playboy Club.”

Along with Little’s memories, Farmer’s book also provides the first-hand and behind-the-scenes accounts of numerous entertainers and company insiders including Playboy executive Victor Lownes, singers Lainie Kazan, Al Jarreau and Marlena Shaw, and comedians Larry Storch, Lily Tomlin and Shecky Greene.

“I think, with our world being in the terrible shape it is in today, there are people who look back to that ‘Mad Men’ era – the Playboy Club era – as a time of sophistication and excitement,” says Farmer. “I’m one of them. I was not of the legal age to ever go to a Playboy Club during their heyday, and yet, as I did my research and interviews for this book, I constantly found myself yearning for that time.” ª

A Bunny Hop Back In Time “Playboy on Stage: A History of the World’s Sexiest Nightclubs,” is a page-turning record of what it felt like to be under the spotlight, backstage, and in the audience at the world’s best-loved “key clubs.” Written by Patty Farmer, a businesswoman and former model who divides her time between New York, Southern California and France, it transports readers back to the halcyon night-life days, as did her previous book, “The Persian Room Presents: An Oral History of New York’s Most Magical Night Spots” (Vantage Press, 2012).

For more information on Patty Farmer and to order her books, click on www.patty-farmer.com

October 2014 LIFEAFTER50.COM 25

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hink about the most-important relationships in your life. What are the characteristics of the people to whom you feel closest? Happy couples describe their partners as interested and responsive. Besides existing relationships, curious people act in certain ways with strangers that allow relationships to develop more easily. Research shows that curious people ask questions and take an interest in learning about partners, and intentionally try to keep interactions interesting and playful.

Here are a couple of things we know about social relationships. In a recent blog in Scientific American magazine, Ingrid Wickelgren writes: “People who are a part of a group are also far better equipped to conquer an internal foe – the threat of bad health.”

In a study published earlier this year on the health benefits of social relationships, researchers provided evidence that social ties and increased contact with family and friends are associated with a lower risk of death in young women with breast cancer. Another presented a similar conclusion with respect to surviving heart surgery. What’s more, a 2010 meta-analysis of 148 other studies showed that social connection doesn’t just help us survive health problems – the lack of it actually causes them.

Wickelgren goes on: “Many languages have expressions such as ‘hurt feelings’ that compare the pain of such social rejection to the pain of physical injury. We now know that those are more than just metaphors. There are two components to physical pain, an unpleasant emotional feeling and a feeling of sensory distress, associated with different structures in the brain. Social pain is also associated with a particular brain structure. This connection between physical and social pain reflects the tie between social connection and the physiological processes of the body.”

So the health message is clear – if you reach out socially, you’ll engage your curious self, minimize the pain of social isolation, and live more fully. As John Lennon wrote so poetically, “You may say I’m a dreamer, but I’m not the only one. I hope someday you’ll join us. And the world will live as one.”

What five goals would lead you to lasting happiness?

In her book, “Creating Your Best Life” (Sterling, 2011), Caroline Adams Miller describes research-tested happiness boosters and techniques for building selfefficacy. The book collects and integrates studies and research on relationships, passion, self-regulation, positive emotions, flow, strengths, exercise and values as they relate to creating an ideal life.

When I did this exercise, my goals were: 1. To savor (this means slowing down some, which is really hard for me to do).

2. To strengthen (in my world, that’s to physically strengthen, which I do daily).

3. To emphasize the positive (as in looking at the glass as half-full).

4. To develop my personal relationships (this means taking more time for people).

5. To be more mindful in the moment (this means being less distracted).

To accomplish these goals and others, it’s important to remember that goals not only need to be SMART (Specific, Measureable, Action-oriented, Realistic and Timed), they also have to be value-driven, intrinsic, enveloping and exciting. You should make your goals “approach” goals – not “avoidance” goals, recommends Miller.

Value-driven goals that are more compelling have a greater likelihood of being pursued, and goals that foster independence and empowerment will help you create ª a life filled with vitality and…happiness.

Sustaining Hope in the Face of Cancer October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a chance to raise awareness about the importance of screening for early detection and retaining hope if cancer is diagnosed

By Deborah J. Cornwall and Maxine Andrews

A

bout one in eight American women will get breast cancer at some point during her life.

After skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common kind of cancer in women. The good news?

Many women can survive breast cancer if it’s found and treated early. A mammogram, the screening test for breast cancer, can help find breast cancer early.

If breast cancer, or any type of cancer, has touched you, or someone you love, you are well aware that it challenges you in more ways than just physically.

One of the things that is most challenged when a cancer diagnosis is given is hope.

realistic the goals, the more likely they are to inspire hope, even if the patient is terminal.

HOPE – A CURIOUS THING

CULTIVATE HUMOR

Hope is about looking forward to something positive and refusing to give up. It’s about persisting in the face of adversity, even when the odds and the facts seem to be working against you. It’s about creating positive energy that can nourish both body and soul.

Having done interviews with 86 personal caregivers who cared for 107 patients with over 40 different cancers, and interacting with dozens of families affected by cancer, it became eminently clear that sustaining hope in the face of cancer is both critical and problematic. All of these caregivers agreed that you aren’t your cancer, and that looking beyond the cancer to envision a “new normal” was key to retaining hope. Among their top suggestions in keeping hope alive were to:

SET REALISTIC GOALS

Is the feasible objective to become cancer-free, prolong life despite cancer, or help relieve patient pain and anxiety as death approaches? The more

LIVE LIFE WHILE YOU HAVE IT, CREATING JOY EVERY DAY

No matter how sick they are, the person you’re caring for will always appreciate a surprise. Maybe it’s a bouquet of daffodils, the opportunity to snuggle with a favorite pet, looking through old photos, or eating chocolate-covered strawberries.

Creating pleasure for the person with cancer creates positive and hopeful memories for both of you.

Many caregivers found that humor was an important stress reliever, even toward the end of a patient’s life. When he knew he was dying, one cancer patient answered the question of how he was doing by saying he’d given up buying green bananas. It was black humor, but it lightened the mood. Less morbid humor can be generated by playing games, reminiscing about amusing stories or watching a funny television show or movie together.

KNOW WHAT YOU’RE DEALING WITH AND USE IT TO YOUR ADVANTAGE

For many patients, information was a source for hope. It might have been about the diagnosis, or treatment options, or a physician’s depth of expertise treating a particular type of cancer. A physician’s candor about the potential consequences of each option and the range of outcomes he’s achieved stimulated hope, even in the most serious of situations. One patient, whose options had

become very limited after two years of rigorous chemotherapy and radiation, found a transplant surgeon willing to do ground-breaking 20-hour three-team “ex vivo resection” surgery removing six abdominal organs so he could remove a deadly tumor that was wrapped around several of her blood vessels and vital organs. Once she knew what she was dealing with, her rigorous research created optimism.

MAKE DELIBERATE CHOICES WHEN ACCESSING INFORMATION Several patient/caregiver teams found that they each had a different appetite for data, and so one would become a data fiend while the other kept more distance and only accessed the broader data about the disease and its prognosis when specific information was needed. They preserved hope by being selective.

INTERPRET DATA CAUTIOUSLY

Several patient/caregiver teams decided that statistics about the broader patient population with a particular diagnosis weren’t necessarily relevant to them. This wasn’t denial; rather, it was recognition that every projection of aggregate survival rates includes a full range of outcomes, some more desirable than others. One patient and his wife explained, “The survival facts [the doctor] gave were tough, so we decided to ignore them because he didn’t say that was true in 100 percent of the cases. Whatever the low percentage is who live longer, we decided that we’d be in it. Now we’re at four years, so it’s working.”

October 2014 LIFEAFTER50.COM 27

FORESTALL LATER REGRETS

Almost every caregiver described trying to do everything possible to ensure they’d have no regrets, no matter how the course of treatment ended. That meant not only going through the normal routines of treatment, but also pressing for management of side effects such as pain and nausea to increase patient comfort and expressing love for the patient every day. Hope isn’t restricted to survival situations. One man, who had a 13-year battle with cancer, was joined by his wife in diligently seeking out clinical trials and breakthroughs in treatment. This gave them hope and options that kept him alive for 27 months after being told he had six weeks to live.

Today, his widow describes their experience as a victory, in spite of his death, and she’s been a passionate advocate for cancer research funding ever since. Decisions about when a patient will die, and where, are also part of creating hope for loved ones. As one patient’s wife said, “We had to be ready because we had to go on. There was a point where it’s all about the people who

live. It’s not about the person who dies. It’s about what will make it okay for the ones who live.”

Orchestrating the readiness of children for such an outcome is part of this planning.

LIFE WITHOUT HOPE IS NOT LIFE

The Russian author Fyodor Dostoevsky said, “To live without hope is to cease to live.” Hope feeds the courage to keep going during challenging and uncertain treatments. It’s what allows family cancer caregivers to carry on every day. It’s what allows people to undertake unthinkable treatments, and it’s what allows exhausted caregivers to heal in the aftermath.

Deborah J. Cornwall is an experienced advocate on behalf of cancer patients and their families.

She is the author of “Things I Wish I’d Known: Cancer Caregivers Speak Out,” a book based on interviews with 86 cancer caregivers and dozens of patients and survivors. For more information or to purchase the book, click on www.thingsiwishidknown.com. ª

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A pArKInSon’S prImer While a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease must be accompanied by information, understanding and support for the patient, it is equally important to provide those resources for family members, friends and care partners Special to Life After 50 • By Delle Willett

N

amed after British apothecary James Parkinson in the early 1800s, Parkinson’s disease is the second most-common neurological disease after Alzheimer’s. In Southern California, about 100,000 people have Parkinson’s; nationally about one million, and globally about six million. And yet, despite these staggering numbers, Parkinson’s is not a wellunderstood disease.

Most people with Parkinson’s start showing

wHAt IS pArKInSon’S?

Parkinson’s disease is a degenerative neurological condition that affects a person’s movements due to a lack of the chemical dopamine in the brain. A diagnosis can be overwhelming. It can mean a future of facing a condition that decreases the quality of life and affects multiple aspects of body and brain function. Additionally, the lack of dopamine in the brain (which helps control the mind’s reward and pleasure centers) can lead to depression, anxiety and severe mood swings. Parkinson’s can also be accompanied by sleep apnea or night terrors and/ or restless-leg syndrome. Many people experience stiffness and pain, especially in their neck, shoulders and lower back.

With all of this to deal with, it’s not surprising that anxiety and depression each affects approximately 40 to 50 percent of those who have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s, with 67 to 92 percent of these individuals experiencing both. And for many, the depression starts years before any movement symptoms show up.

medIcIneS And tHerApIeS

Jerry Henberger, executive director of Southern California’s Parkinson’s Association, says the gold standard for treatment for Parkinson’s is levodopa (L-Dopa) – an oral drug that increases dopamine levels, providing relief from the main symptoms of the condition, improving motor function and mobility, and enabling participation in everyday activities – dramatically enhancing the life of those suffering with the disease.

First tested by neuroscientist Oleh Hornykiewicz in 1961 and approved in 1967 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, levadopa is not the final answer. Levodopa therapy is generally effective throughout the course of the disease. However, as Parkinson’s progresses, it takes more levodopa to relieve symptoms and relief is often incomplete or inconsistent. It is also important to know that

symptoms between the age 55 and 65, although there are also early-onset cases – such as with actor Michael J. Fox – where a diagnosis can come as early as one’s 20s or 30s.

Parkinson’s seems to occur more commonly in men than women, based primarily on studies of death rates and prevalence. While scientists, scholars and drug companies around the world have yet to zero in on the cause, there are drugs and therapies to manage the symptoms. adverse side effects, such as involuntary writhing movements and body spasms (dyskinesias), are common with patients using the drug.

Working with their neurologist, patients can take other drugs as adjunct therapies, helping to offset these problems for a short time, but the continuing loss of dopaminergic neurons causes a relentless stream of physical, mental and emotional challenges.

These challenges were memorably depicted in “Awakenings,” a 1990 film based on a 1973 memoir

by British neurologist Oliver Sacks, portrayed (ironically, due to the revelation that he had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s) by the late Robin Williams, who, in 1969, discovered beneficial effects of the then-new drug, levodopa.

In addition to drug therapy, an option to be considered is deep-brain stimulation (DBS), which combines neurology, neurosurgery and electrical engineering. Similar to a pacemaker for heart problems, tiny electrodes are implanted in the patient’s brain and powered by a subcutaneous control device embedded near the collar bone to deliver a weak but constant electric current that reduces or eliminates some of the person’s symptoms.

While the use of DBS is promising, it is not an option for everybody and it doesn’t necessarily help with depression, anxiety, posture or instability issues that typically come with Parkinson’s.

mIndS And motIon HeAltH ServIceS

“Behaviors and mental processes are swayed by social-cultural influences such as the presence of others, cultural, societal and family expectations, and peer and other group influences. Exercise is a key therapy, as is maintaining a positive state of mind,” says Henberger.

With this in mind, the association developed and began its unique Minds and Motion Health Services program a year ago. Through this therapeutic

lifestyle program, Parkinson’s patients, their families and care partners, are helped to effectively address the symptoms.

The program, which focuses on state of mind, voice/swallowing, and movement challenges, is designed to support other medical services provided by the patient’s physician and is administered in collaboration with major medical groups and hospital systems throughout Southern California.

treAtIng tHe StAte oF mInd

Parkinson’s disease is a highly individualized condition and by its very nature is unpredictable, often creating stress and anxiety for the person diagnosed as well as their family and friends. For this reason, professional counseling and support should be considered by spouses, family members, friends and neighbors – anyone who is involved with the patient.

“It’s not always just coping with Parkinson’s that brings people to see a counselor,” says the association’s Dr. Arika Johnson, Psy.D. “As time goes by, people need help dealing with the secondary things that are happening as a result of having Parkinson’s. For example: they can’t work or drive any longer; they are having problems with memory, they can’t take care of a pet, or stay in their home any longer.”

And when patients take drugs for their moods, it can exacerbate the disease’s symptoms, which underscores why therapy becomes so important.

“Ideally, with counseling, a person can learn the skills to cope with the disease and feel better,

October 2014 LIFEAFTER50.COM 29

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decreasing the need for psychotropic medication, improving his quality of life and slowing the progression over time,” explains Johnson.

Throughout the counseling sessions, the person’s progress is tracked for progress and trends. “Our body is so complex, yet we’ve found that by treating symptoms and carefully tracking a patient’s progress over time, we can help people live a stronger, healthier, happier life; and early indications are that this network of programs may actually show that the progression of the disease is slowed,” says Henberger.

About 40 to 50 percent of people with Parkinson’s will experience dementia as the disease progresses. To help determine the level of dementia and possible complications of memory loss, the association also offers confidential neuropsychic evaluations. These evaluations are designed to help family members with providing optional and optimum care for their loved ones.

Counselors are also qualified to help a patient decide if he or she is a good candidate for DBS, which requires testing cognitive memory, attention span, overall awareness, and general health.

Counseling services are available through the Parkinson’s Association in its offices in Santa Monica, San Diego, La Jolla and Chula Vista and will soon be available in Orange County.

The association has insurance arrangements with Medi-Cal, Medicare and most major insurance programs.

“Singing has natural therapeutic value for the Parkinson’s voice,” says Hesley. “Symptoms such as reduced voice volume and slurred articulation are addressed. There are also social and emotional benefits such as engaging in a communal effort, camaraderie, companionship, creativity and the joy of making music together.”

Tremble Clef participants experience the power of performance when they share their music with community groups. “We feel fortunate to be able to educate the public by demonstrating the abilities, talents and positive energy of Parkinson’s people,” adds Hesley.

With groups in San Diego, North San Diego County, South and North Orange County, Tremble Clefs is free and open to all Parkinson’s patients, their care partners and family members.

Participants learn speech therapy and music therapy techniques to improve posture, breathing and vocalizing, which lead to stronger voices.

Movement-to-music enhances balance and coordination by providing the critical ingredient of rhythm. No previous singing experience is required; just a willingness to participate and have fun at one’s own ability and comfort level.

The association has also recently announced it will be starting a Tremble Clefs program in Los Angeles, headed up by Sheldon Reynolds, the retired lead guitarist and vocalist for the group Earth, Wind and Fire, who has himself been diagnosed with Parkinson’s.

ImprovIng voIce And SwAllowIng muScleS

mAnAgIng movement dISorderS

In addition to individual voice-therapy for improving voice and swallowing issues caused by Parkinson’s, a group voice-therapy program called Tremble Clefs is available in Southern California.

Speech therapist Karen Hesley developed the program in 1994 specifically for people with Parkinson’s.

The most highly recommended activity for people with Parkinson’s is exercise, which helps alleviate the symptoms of the disease as well as the person’s moods through the release of endorphins, which are known to decrease feelings of pain, reduce the negative effects of stress, and lead to feelings of well-being.

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disorders are available through the association’s network of physical and occupational therapists, and various qualified partners who help people with balance, strength and endurance through exercise and physical activities such as Tai Chi, yoga, Zumba and boxing.

Parkinson’s patients are encouraged to be active and have a regular regimen of activities such as walking, swimming, dancing and bike riding – all proven to be valuable exercises.

Support tHrougH groupS

Support groups bring together those in similar circumstances, offering an opportunity to gain strength and learn from each other’s experiences and challenges. At meetings held once or twice a month, programs vary and include guest speakers, discussions, potluck dinners and – since laughing is excellent therapy – just plain fun.

A list of Parkinson’s disease support groups, meeting times and locations can be found on the association’s website www.parkinsonsassociation.org.

An InvItAtIon From tHe dIrector

“We believe that the body has remarkable regenerative capabilities, and with the support of our programs, people can better handle the biological and psychological symptoms to slow the progression of the disease,” says Henberger.

“We hope that Life After 50 readers will reach out to us if they are in need of our services.”

For more information on Parkinson’s disease, the Tremble Clefs and other services, contact the Parkinson’s Association at (877) 737-7576 or click on www.parkinsonsassociation.org.

Author Delle Willetts is a Southern Californiabased journalist who wishes to express deep gratitude to her sister, Donne Willett, who was

diagnosed with Parkinson’s 13 years ago, for her help in researching and writing this article.

“Donne gave me videos to watch and papers to read, and pointed out every place in the article that needed more clarification and fact-checking,” says Delle. “I, along with our younger sister, Denny, am happy to be Donne’s care partner. ª

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Gracepoint – New Series, Fox –

Premieres Thursday October 2 at 9 p.m.

This American remake of the British hit series “Broadchurch” retains the dark storyline about a murder investigation of a young boy that rocks a small seaside town, but shifts the locale to California. David Tennant reprises his lead role as a high-ranking police official who arrives in town with a troubled past, though this time he also comes with an American accent. Anna Gunn, Jacki Weaver, Nick Nolte, Michael Peña, and Kevin Rankin also star in the 10-part series, which promises to have a different ending than the original.

Mulaney – New series, Fox –

Premieres Sunday October 5 at 9:30 p.m.

This Lorne Michaels-produced sitcom wants to be the next “Seinfeld” – at least Fox is already touting it as that. The semi-autobiographical, multicamera comedy (taped before a live studio audience) is a vehicle for stand-up comedian John Mulaney (a former “Saturday Night Live” writer), who plays a young aspiring comedian trying to take his career to the next level. Martin Short, Nasim Pedrad, Elliott Gould, Seaton Smith, and Zack Pearlman also star, while Penny Marshall and Lorraine Bracco will guest star.

The Affair – New Series, Showtime – Premieres Sunday October 12 at 10 p.m. (also OnDemand) This new one-hour series explores the emotional and psychological effects of an extramarital affair. The 10-episode drama, from the creative team behind HBO’s “In Treatment,” depicts the effects of an extramarital affair from both his and her perspectives. The provocative series stars Dominic West as Noah, a New Yorker who begins an affair with local waitress Allison, played by Ruth Wilson, while vacationing in Long Island. With Allison married to a tough cowboy, played by Joshua Jackson, and Noah married to his college sweetheart, played by Maura Tierney, lives are turned upside down.

The Best In October Television Viewing

By Sandi Berg

Death Comes To Pemberley – New Miniseries, PBS – Premieres Sunday October 26 at 9 p.m.

An adaptation of renowned mystery novelist P.D. James’ witty and inventive continuation of Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice,” this two-part miniseries picks up the story six years after the marriage of Elizabeth and Darcy. As preparations are being made for a ball at their Pemberley estate, the discovery of a corpse brings an abrupt and shocking halt to the proceedings – and a threat to all that Darcy holds dear. This beautifully done series stars Matthew Rhys, Matthew Goode and Anna Maxwell.

Tuned In To What’s On Garage Sale Mystery: All That Glitters –

New original movie, Hallmark Movies and Mysteries Channel – Premieres Sunday October 26 at 9 p.m.

This new two-hour Hallmark Movies and Mysteries Original Movie world premiere stars perennial Hallmark favorite Lori Loughlin. A contemporary mystery, it is part of the network’s all-new, Original Mystery Wheel Franchise, kicking off the launch of the re-branded network previously known as Hallmark Movie Channel. Steve Bacic and Sarah Strange also star in the film, which is the second in the “Garage Sale Mystery” series starring Loughlin as a sleuthing yard-sale treasure hunter who uses her keen eye to solve crimes. The “Garage Sale Mystery” movies are based on the book by bestselling author Suzi Weinert.

October 2014 LIFEAFTER50.COM 33

Dawn Wells

A Modern Day Messenger For Mary Ann Morals Story and Photos by David Laurell

O

f the bazillions of people who have roamed this Earth since the beginning of time, it has only been over the past 60 years that an infinitesimal few have created legendary characters that, through the medium of television, have infiltrated the culture and psyche of the world’s inhabitants.

Venture to the deepest, darkest and most primitive corners of the globe and you will still find those who will recognize the likes of Ralph Kramden, Lucy Ricardo, Archie Bunker, Arthur “Fonzi” Fonzarelli and Captain James T. Kirk.

Let’s be overly generous and say that, perhaps, there have been 100 or so of these iconic character creations that have secured their place in the pantheon of pop culture. Of that exclusive clique, a more-than-decent argument could be made that seven of them came from one show – “Gilligan’s Island.”

While the CBS sitcom was only in production for three seasons, from 1964 to 1967, ask just about anyone – whether they were born during the latter years of the Wilson Administration or the early ones of Obama’s – to name those seven stranded castaways and they will easily rattle them off (usually in song): “Gilligan, the Skipper too, the millionaire and his wife, the movie star, the Professor and Mary Ann.” Portrayed, respectively, by Bob Denver, Alan Hale, Jr., Jim Backus, Natalie Schafer, Tina Louise, Russell Johnson and Dawn Wells, those castaway characters, thanks to syndication, live on, although, sadly, the real life actors who gave them life, do not. With the passing of Johnson, earlier this year at the age of 89, there are now only two living cast

34 LIFEAFTER50.COM October 2014

members of the iconic show – Louise, who played the glamorous movie star Ginger Grant, and Wells, who gave life to Mary Ann Summers, the ingénue from a Kansas farm.

“I travel all over the world,” says Wells, who turns 76 this month. “And no matter where I go, they know ‘Gilligan’s Island.’ It’s just unbelievable. I was once in a part of the Solomon Islands where no white woman had even been. We had canoed up to a little village where these huts were built on stilts out on a coral reef, and the chief’s wife kept looking at me. Finally she said: ‘I know you.’ I was shocked.

Then she told me she had attended nursing school on the island of Honiara in 1979 and used to watch the show. So there I was in this primitive, remote island with no running water and yet someone knew ‘Gilligan’s Island.’ I have had this happen in Rwanda, in Beijing – all over the world.”

Wells, a self-proclaimed homebody who lives in Southern California’s San Fernando Valley and has just released her latest book, “What Would Mary Ann Do? A Guide To Life” (Taylor Trade Publishing, 2014), was born and raised in Reno, Nevada. After graduating from Reno High School, she attended Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri, where she majored in chemistry and then transferred to the University of Washington in Seattle, where she graduated in 1960 with a degree in theater arts and design. In 1959, Wells was crowned Miss Nevada and represented her state in the 1960 Miss America Pageant.

The Dawn of Dawn

The encouragement and prompting of a professor at the University of Washington coupled with the

exposure she received during her reign as Miss Nevada provided Wells with the push to see if she could establish an acting career.

“I went to Hollywood and figured I’d give myself a year to see what may happen,” Wells recalls. “If things didn’t work out, my plan was to pursue my original goal of going to medical school.”

Arriving in Tinseltown during the heyday of television, Wells says she was just a kid who had no idea what she was doing when she first set foot on Burbank’s legendary Warner Bros. Studios lot.

“I had an interview with Jack Warner,” she recalls.

“I remember being brought to his office where he was sitting behind his big desk. I was totally intimidated, but I’m a talker, so I just started talking and ended up being in with him for 40 minutes.”

Following her meeting with Warner, Wells’ agent called her to say she had just gotten off the phone with the studio head who revealed that he and the young actress had engaged in quite a conversation.

“We had discussed all sorts of things and current events, which I guess wasn’t the way the typical interview went between him and young actresses,” laughs Wells. “But I’ve always believed we’re more than just our talent. I’ve always drawn from that and taken it to heart. So even though he was this powerful studio head, I just talked with Jack Warner like I would with anyone and we connected in a way that was more than the ‘Look at me! Look at me!’ that I’m sure he got from a lot of the actresses he met with. What did I know? I was so naïve, I had no idea that it was a big deal that we had a conversation until my agent explained that Jack Warner didn’t have the highest regard for actors and that was not at all typical.”

Young Wells made such a good impression on Warner, she was brought into the studio’s fold and began making regular appearances in early Warner Bros. Television classics such as “77 Sunset Strip,” “Cheyenne,” “Maverick” and “Hawaiian Eye.”

Casting For Castaways

In late 1963, television producer Sherwood Schwartz was working on a new series about a small group of tourists who, while taking a three-hour boat tour, get caught in a violent storm and end up marooned on an unchartered desert island. The pilot for the show was shot in Hawaii, wrapping production on November 22, the day President John F. Kennedy was assassinated.

Somewhat different than the “Gilligan’s Island” everyone has come to know, the pilot did include Gilligan, the Skipper, and the Howells, but not the Professor, Ginger or Mary Ann. The original cast was rounded out with a high school teacher played by John Gabriel, a sexy secretary played by Kit Smythe, and a stereotypically “dumb blonde” played by Nancy McCarthy.

After testing the pilot, it was determined the latter three characters weren’t working with audiences and Schwartz decided to redefine and recast those roles as a professor, a glamorous movie star and a Kansas farm girl.

“When I got the call for that audition, all I knew was that the pilot had been shot with other actors and that they were looking to replace some of the characters,” Wells recalls. “For me, it was just another audition.”

Making her way to the 20th Century-Fox lot to meet with Schwartz, she impressed the producer in much

the same way she had done with Warner.

“Like I say, I’m a talker, so we had a nice conversation about the character of Mary Ann and, after hearing about her, I really felt I knew how she should look and how she would dress and wear her hair,” says Wells. “So they called me in to screen test at CBS Television City and when I got there, I found out there were about 300 people there to audition for Mary Ann and Ginger and the Professor. I remember seeing Raquel Welch come in and thought: ‘Well, that’s the end of me.’ I wasn’t nervous at all because, to me, it was just another run-of-the-mill audition, but they kept calling me back for more tests.”

Ultimately offered the role of Mary Ann, Wells joined the new cast that included Johnson as the Professor and Louise as the movie star. The revamped show resonated both with test audiences and CBS, who picked up the show for their 1964 season.

Filmed at the CBS Radford Studios in Studio City, “Gilligan’s Island” was shot on the same stage that would later be used for “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” and “Roseanne.” The show’s famous lagoon, also located on the lot, was designed so that it could be drained and double as a parking lot when it was not being used for filming.

“I was thrilled to get the role of Mary Ann, but I had no idea if the show would make it. None of us did,” says Wells. “When we were doing the series, the critics panned it and called it the most stupid thing they ever saw. So we weren’t sure what would happen.”

What did happen was what often happens – the professional critics hate a show that Americans

embrace. “Gilligan’s Island” went on to enjoy solid ratings throughout its three-year run and saw its seven characters become indelible icons of popular culture.

Recalling Her Castaway Castmates

Asked what first comes to mind when she thinks of her fellow castmates, Wells says Alan Hale was the kindest, warmest and most jovial human being she has ever known, while Bob Denver was a great intellect and gentle soul.

She bursts out in a hearty laugh when asked for her memories of Jim Backus. “He was cheap, cheap, cheap,” she snaps. “The biggest skinflint I’ve ever met. But he was funny and really knew his comedy.

He was generous in sharing his comedic intellect and understanding with Sherwood and the directors and with Natalie. There’s not a lot of actors who are willing to do that.”

As for her feelings about Natalie Schafer, Wells says she always felt like she was the daughter Schafer never had. “We were very close and I always admired her,” says Wells. “She had an incredible sense of style.”

Wells enjoyed a close relationship with Denver and Schafer until the end of their lives, as she did with Johnson. “Russell and I really connected,” says Wells. “He had the best sense of humor of anyone in the cast. He always kept me laughing. We had been close from the very start. I think that may have been because he and I had been lumped together as ‘the rest’ for the first year of the show. He really took care of me. There was never a romantic or sexual

October 2014 LIFEAFTER50.COM 35

attraction between us, but we really loved one another and always remained close friends.”

As for her thoughts on the actress who played the character hers was most associated with, Wells sighs when asked about Tina Louise.

“Tina and I never had a problem with one another,” she says matter-of-factly.

“But we never had anything in common – nothing! It was fairly well-known that she was not happy doing the show and I’m sure that became even worse for her because, as the years went by, Mary Ann always won out when it came to the ‘Ginger or Mary Ann’ question. I’m sure that has been awful for her. Tina was such a beauty. She was a real movie star who, before ‘Gilligan’s Island,’ had been in feature films and on Broadway. I was just a kid from Nevada and she was a New York star. Had we not been cast together, we would have never been the types who would have connected with one another. She was always very private and didn’t have the sort of sense of humor I had. The only connection we ever had was one I write about in my book. She had just gotten married and wanted to prepare a Thanksgiving dinner, which she had never done before.

So she asked me if I would teach her how to do it, which I did. I ran into her daughter [novelist, screenwriter and television writer/producer Caprice Crane] once and she told me her mother would tell that story every Thanksgiving – how I had her over to my house to teach her how to make the dinner. Honestly, I think she was a very shy person and I never got to know her well. But I never thought she was a b-i-t-c-h. I never saw her be anything other than a total professional.”

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When CBS dropped “Gilligan’s Island” in 1967, Wells and her husband, talent agent Larry Rosen, divorced, and she went on to embark on a successful theater career. Over the years she has also appeared in numerous television and feature film roles, reprised her character of Mary Ann in various “Gilligan’s Island” reunion specials and movies, and done a one-woman show at the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas in the mid 1980s.

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Wells also wrote “Mary Ann’s Gilligan’s Island Cookbook” (Rutledge Hill Press, 1993), established the Wishing Wells Collections that made clothing for people with limited mobility, founded the Idaho Film and Television Institute and, to this day, continues to lend her support to the Denver Foundation, a charity chaired by Bob Denver’s widow, Dreama Denver, that enriches the lives of individuals with special needs.

Dawn Of Today

Having never had children or remarried, Wells today shares her primitive Africanand-South-Seas-island-art-decorated home with her “sleek and sexy” cat, Veronica, whom she named after the character from the “Archie” comics.

Having just released her latest book in September, Wells says that from the very beginning, her goal was to make the book a guide to help people of all ages deal with the complexities of today’s world.

“I don’t know how many people would have really been interested in reading about Dawn Wells’ life, so I never wanted to do a typical autobiography,” she explains pragmatically. “However, when I would think back on all the people I’ve met over the years – generation after generation of people – who watched ‘Gilligan’s Island’ and were impressed by the morals and values they saw in Mary Ann, that gave me an idea. I really think it is the character – Mary Ann – that people have always related to, not Dawn Wells. So that is why I wanted the book to be about how Mary Ann would deal with all types of situations that people of all ages deal with in today’s world.”

An inspirational, heartwarming and humorous tome that blends advice, anecdotal sidebars with cute-as-a-bug drawings, “Gilligan’s Island” memories and photographs from Wells’ private collection, the book offers twelve chapters on how Mary Ann would respond to today’s culture and challenges. Part-memoir and partetiquette guide that, at times, critics may say, leans a bit more Pollyanna than Mary Ann, Wells is unrepentant when it comes to espousing what she calls: “Mary Ann morals.”

“I am certainly more sophisticated and worldly than Mary Ann,” says Wells. “I grew up in Nevada, with legalized gambling and prostitution. But I always had Mary Ann morals. There is, and always has been, a core of Mary Ann in me, and I think there is a message that Mary Ann has to give. I’m not preaching and presenting this as a goody-two-shoes guide to life that you have to follow. It is just giving people – young people – the option and understanding that they do have choices. It asks readers to think about values, about right and wrong. Young people today are living in a Kardashian world where teenagers think having $500 purses is the norm. It’s a book about how to keep your sanity and morality in today’s world.

How to incorporate the goodness from inside of you instead of being dictated by whatever is going on around you and what the Kardashians say is successful.”

Along with providing readers with insights as to how Mary Ann would handle growing up in today’s world, she also addresses how her character might handle aging. It is a philosophy that very much mirrors her own.

“I don’t know if a positive attitude comes naturally or you have to learn it or force it,” says Wells. “All I can say is that people who are not positive – the ones who complain about everything – seem to attract more to complain about. I think if you cultivate and feed into negativity, it grows around you and takes over your life. I look for joy and anything that is positive. I know that is not easy for people who have serious health issues and have dealt with devastating losses. And I am very grateful, because I know I’ve been blessed. But I just see aging as another stage of life. It can be, and in many cases is, a more difficult stage. I think, just as we had to discover who we were when we were kids, and when we first started school, and when we became teenagers, and then stepped out into the real world, we also have to find out who we are as an older person – what our significance is at this stage of our lives. I’m always looking forward to what’s next. I have a million things I would love to do, so the thought of sitting rocking in a chair never crosses my mind.”

To learn more about Dawn Wells, get autographed photos or to order her new ª book, click on www.dawnwells.com

October 2014 LIFEAFTER50.COM 37

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Let’s Get OUt A Preview of Upcoming Events for October/November By Claire Yezbak Fadden

LA/Ventura October/November 2014

eNteRtAINMeNt WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 15 THE TRIP TO BOUNTIFUL Mother Watts (Cicely Tyson) is an elderly woman forced to live with her overprotective son (Blair Underwood) and domineering daughter-in-law (Vanessa Williams). Her dream is to return for one last time to her small hometown in Bountiful, Texas.

Her journey becomes a heartbreaking but ultimately life-affirming and inspiring tale that examines the fragility of memory and celebrates the enduring power of hope, faith and family. Theatre Group/Ahmanson Theatre At the Music Center, 135 N. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. Tues.-Sun. through Nov. 2. $25-$115.

(213) 628-2772. centertheatregroup.org.

THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST A satire of the Victorian era, this is considered one of the best-loved comedies in the English literary canon. Wilde’s play savages the intricacies of manners and social mores of that time and is one of the first encapsulations of what we now know as gay sensibility, generally considered to be a cornerstone of theatrical work. A Noise Within, 3352 East Foothill Blvd., Pasadena. Wed.-Sun. through Nov. 22. $34-$40. (626) 356-3100. anoisewithin.org.

GLENDALE NOON CONCERTS Calico Winds. First Baptist Church of Glendale, 209 N. Louise St., Glendale. Free. (818) 2422113. glendalenoonconcerts.blogspot.com.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16 WEDDING BAND As World War I rages in Europe, two individuals wage their own battle against America’s racist color line, risking their lives for the right to marry. Alice Childress’ masterpiece tells the story of two people in love who yearn to be together as husband and wife, but are kept apart by society’s mores and laws prohibiting interracial marriage. The Antaeus Company, 5112 Lankershim Blvd., North Hollywood.

Thurs.-Sun. through Dec. 7. $30-$34. (818) 506-1983. antaeus.org.

GLORIOUS! Based on a true story, this comedy invites us into the world of Florence Foster Jenkins, a New York socialite of great passion, considerable wealth and zero talent who fancied herself an opera diva. International City Theatre, Long Beach Performing Arts Center, 300 E. Ocean Blvd., Long Beach.

Thurs.-Sun. through Nov. 2. $32-$47. (562) 436-4610. internationalcitytheatre.org.

MARJORIE PRIME Eighty-five-year-old Marjorie (Lois Smith), a clever, wry woman, finds that her memory is failing. She is living out her days at an assisted living facility where she is frequently visited by her anxious, quick-witted daughter, Tess and her kind, easygoing son-in-law, Jon.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 19

VOICES OF LIGHT/THE PASSION OF JOAN OF ARC

The Los Angeles Master Chorale (LAMC), led by Grant Gershon, launches its new season, with a spectacular multi-faceted cinematic and musical event featuring Richard Einhorn’s 1994 work “Voices of Light/The Passion of Joan of Arc.” The evocative piece, written for orchestra, chorus and soloists, provides a haunting backdrop to the rarely seen restored version of Carl Dreyer’s silent film masterpiece.

Thought to have been lost in a warehouse fire, the film was discovered in a janitor’s closet at a Norwegian mental institution in 1981, and is now considered by critics to be among the 10 best films ever made. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. (213) 972-7282. lamc.org.

With the urging of Jon and the facility and despite Tess’s misgivings, a mysterious young man, joins the group with the hope that he can help reverse Marjorie’s decline. Center Theatre Group/Mark Taper Forum At the Music Center, 135 N. Grand Ave., Los Angeles.

Through Oct.19. $25-$70. (213) 628-2772. centertheatregroup.org.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17 ORPHANS Two brothers live in a dilapidated North Philly row house. Treat, the older, and a violent, predatory thief, has assumed the role of head of household. Phillip, a reclusive and sensitive man-child, would never survive without his brother. In their horrifying way, they are a family, until one night when Treat kidnaps a drunken wealthy man. Westchester Playhouse, 8301 Hindry Ave., Westchester. Also Oct. 18. $20. (310) 645-5156. kentwoodplayers.org.

THE TEMPEST One of Shakespeare’s final works, “The Tempest” tells the tragicomic tale of Prospero,

The Duke of Milan and his daughter, Miranda, who are marooned on an island by Prospero’s brother, Antonio. When Antonio’s ship is run aground by a massive storm, he and his comrades must navigate an isle rife with spirits and temptation. A Noise Within, 3352 East Foothill Blvd., Pasadena. Wed.-Sun. through Nov. 22. $34-$40. (626) 356-3100. anoisewithin.org.

HANSEL AND GRETA (SIC) BLUEGRASS A new version of the classic story set in depression-era Kentucky features the rollicking bluegrass sounds of The Get Down Boys. 24th Street Theatre, 1117 West 24th St, Los Angeles. Dates vary through Nov. 16. $10$24. (213) 745-6516. 24thstreet.org.

CHOIR BOY At the Charles R. Drew Prep School for Boys, a young black man knows what is expected of him. Work hard, fall in line and if you’ve got the voice for it, use it to praise God in the school choir. Within these walls, Pharus Young, with the voice of an angel and a keen

mind, should be a star. But in the face of Drew’s time-honored traditions, can music overcome silence? Gil Cates Theater, Geffen Playhouse, 10886 Le Conte Ave., Los Angeles.

Through Oct. 26. Prices vary. (310) 208-5454. geffenplayhouse.com.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18 BROOMSTICK Set in Appalachia and written entirely in verse, this charming and mesmerizing solo play stars Jenny O’Hara as a wacky, bizarre old woman, who just may be a witch, living in an odd little shack. A funny, poignant and spell-binding tale of the magic of the human heart. The Fountain Theatre, 5060 Fountain Avenue, Los Angeles.

Thurs.-Sun. through Nov. 30. $34. (323) 6631525. fountaintheatre.com.

OTHELLO Disinformation, deceit and blunt ambition: Washington politics as usual? Talk show pundits? No, it’s Shakespeare’s classic tale of power, lust and jealousy. Odyssey Theatre, 2055 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles. Fri.-

October 2014 LIFEAFTER50.COM 39

CALeNDAR

October/November 2014 LA/Ventura printing presses with the assistance from the ethereal printers in the dead letter department.

International Printing Museum, 315 Torrance Blvd., Carson. Also Nov. 1. $13. (310) 5157166. printmuseum.org.

THEATRICUM BOO-TANICUM Wander Theatricum’s wooded grounds, where you’ll find a haunted house, ghost stories, pumpkin carving, game booths, edibles and things that go bump in the night. Perfect for ghosts and goblins of all ages. Will Geer’s Theatricum Botanicum, 1419 N. Topanga Canyon Blvd., Topanga. $5-$20. (310) 4553723. theatricum.com.

NOVEMBER SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 2 THE NEW CHRISTY MINSTRELS Their influence in pop and folk music is undeniable, with chart-topping hits such as “Green, Green,” “This Land Is Your Land,” and the Oscar-winning “Chim Chim Cher-ee.”

Special guest, gospel-folk musician Barry McGuire. Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, 12700 Center Court Drive, Cerritos. $40$60. (562) 467-8818. cerritoscenter.com.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24

SERGIO MENDES

Sergio Mendes commands international attention with his uniquely exhilarating blend of pop-inflected Brazilian jazz. Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, 12700 Center Court Drive, Cerritos. $45-$75. (562) 467-8818. cerritoscenter.com.

Sun. through Dec. 14. $25-$30, (310) 4772055 x2. odysseytheatre.com.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 19 THE DANCE OF DEATH Written in 1900, “The Dance of Death” depicts the dissolution of a marriage between Edgar, an artillery captain, and Alice, a former actress. This couple, married for a quarter century, lives on a remote Nordic island – the ideal setting for feelings of claustrophobia and dysfunction. When Kurt, Alice’s cousin arrives in their manipulative marital landscape, the intensity escalates into a deadly battle of wills. A Noise Within, 3352 East Foothill Blvd., Pasadena. Wed.-Sun. through Nov. 23. $34$40. (626) 356-3100. anoisewithin.org.

WESTERN MUSIC ASSOCIATION JAM Musicians and cowboy poets perform stories and songs of the romantic days of the Old West, contemporary music of the American West and songs of the open range and the American cowboy. The Autry National Center, 4700 Western Heritage Way, Griffith Park, Los Angeles. $6-$10. (323) 667-2000. theautry.org.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24

40 LIFEAFTER50.COM October 2014

THE FOUR TOPS This American vocal quartet from Detroit, Michigan helped to define the city’s Motown sound of the 1960s. The group’s repertoire has included soul music, R&B, disco, adult contemporary, doo-wop, jazz and show tunes.

Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza, Fred Kavli Theatre, 2100 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks. $41-$76. (805) 449-2787. toaks.org.

this feat in just over a decade of playing and recording music on the ukulele.

Pepperdine University, Smothers Theatre, 24255 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu. $25$50. (310) 506-4522. arts.pepperdine.edu.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25 LEON RUSSELL Saban Theatre at BHPAC 8440 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills. $35-$75. (888) 645-5006. sabantheatre.org.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 30 JAKE SHIMABUKURO It’s hard to find an artist who has entirely redefined an instrument by his early 30s. But Jake Shimabukuro has already accomplished

DIA DE LOS MUERTOS Celebrate the joyous tradition of Mexico’s Day of the Dead with food, music, dance and a graveyard where you can make your own altar for your departed loved ones. 24th Street Theatre, 1117 West 24th St, Los Angeles. Free.

(213) 745-6516. 24thstreet.org FREE FIRST SUNDAY Free admission to the Museum of Ventura County including its galleries and any special events. Museum of Ventura County, 100 East Main St., Ventura. First Sunday of each month.

(805) 653-0323. venturamuseum.org.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5 GLENDALE NOON CONCERTS First Baptist Church of Glendale, 209 N. Louise St., Glendale. Free. (818) 242-2113. glendalenoonconcerts.blogspot.com.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 28 VENTURA BLUEGRASS JAMS Milano’s Italian Restaurant, Patio, Ventura Harbor Village, 1559 Spinnaker Dr., Ventura.

(805) 658-0388. milanositalianrestaurant.com.

BRUCE DAVIDSON/PAUL CAPONIGRO Two American Photographers in Britain and Ireland. The exhibition features approximately 150 works by the photographers to examine the work of two master photographers as they trained American eyes on enduring landscapes and changing cultural scenes. Huntington Library, Art Collection and Botanical Gardens, MaryLou and George Boone Gallery, 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino. Through March 9. $12-$15. (626) 405-2100. huntington.org.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8 THINGS THAT GO BUMP IN THE NITE, PART II Tired of the same old chainsaw shenanigans at the neighborhood haunted house or zombie party? Listen to ghostly storytellers share some non-traditional tales from Kipling, Dickens or Saki. This recreation of the odd and strange includes a chance to print out your own messages from beyond on antique

WAYNE NEWTON Saban Theatre at BHPAC 8440 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills. $45-$125. (888) 645-5006. sabantheatre.org.

AUTUMN FESTIVAL Delve into the arts, cuisines, cultures, and marine environments of Asia. The festival highlights the traditions and cultures of

CALENDAR

October/November 2014 LA/Ventura Japan, China, Korea and the Philippines featuring traditional crafts, music, dance, demonstrations, cultural arts exhibits, ethnic cuisine and storytelling. Move to the sounds of taiko drumming, watch dancers, acrobats and martial arts demonstrations. Aquarium of the Pacific, 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach. Also Nov. 9. $15-$26. (562)590-3100. aquariumofpacific.org.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 9 HYE-JIN KIM Winner of the 2009 Concert Artists Guild Competition, violinist Kim also won first prize at the Yehudi Menuhin Competition at the age of 19. Pepperdine University, Raitt Recital Hall, 24255 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu. $22$28. arts.pepperdine.edu.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 11 VENTURA BLUEGRASS JAMS Milano’s Italian Restaurant, Patio, Ventura Harbor Village, 1559 Spinnaker Dr., Ventura.

(805) 658-0388. milanositalianrestaurant.com.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 13 RACING DEMON The first play in David Hare’s trilogy dealing with British social institutions in the aftermath of Thatcherism focuses on four Church of England clergymen who are attempting to minister to an economically and racially mixed parish in South London’s Southwark diocese.

L.A. Theatre Works at the James Bridges Theater, UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television, 235 Charles E. Young Drive, Los Angeles. Also Nov. 14-16. $15-$60. (310) 8270889. latw.org.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14 MEMPHIS From the underground dance clubs of 1950s this musical bursts off the stage with explosive dancing, irresistible songs and a thrilling tale of fame and forbidden love. A radio DJ wants to change the world and a club singer who is ready for her big break. Inspired by actual events. Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza, Fred Kavli Theatre, 2100 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks. Wed.-Sun. through Nov. 23. $34-$74. (805) 449-2775. cabrillomusictheatre.com.

EXHIBITIONS PRIDE AND JOY The Texas Blues of Stevie Ray Vaughan. With his astonishingly accomplished guitar playing, Stevie Ray Vaughan ignited the blues revival of the 1980s and bridged the gap between blues and rock like no other artist had since the late 1960s. His tragic death in 1990 at age 35 cut short a brilliant career in blues and American rock ‘n’ roll, just as he was on the brink of superstardom. Exhibition includes: several guitars, including Vaughan’s “Number One” Fender Stratocaster, early family photographs, original stage outfits, including Vaughan’s famous Indian headdress and handwritten lyrics. The Grammy Museum at L.A. Live, Fourth Floor, 800 W. Olympic Blvd., Los Angeles. Through July 2015. $12-$13. (213) 765-6803. grammymuseum.org.

BURNING DOWN THE HOUSE This exhibition brings together the works of Ellen Brooks, Jo Ann Callis and Eileen Cowin.

Long known for using photography to narrative ends, Brooks, Callis and Cowin, who emerged simultaneously in 1970s Southern California, challenge both the role of women and their chosen medium in multi-layered, provocative images. Pasadena Museum of Art, 490 East Union Street, Pasadena. Through Jan. 11. $5-$7. Wed.Sun. (626) 568-3665. pmcaonline.org.

MEXICAN-AMERICAN BASEBALL IN VENTURA COUNTY Baseball was a way to build unity, strengthen friendships, hone skills and to forget -- for nine innings -- that they were different. It became a source of pride for the players as well as the residents of the barrios and ultimately was the great equalizer. This exhibit focuses on the American sport that saturated communities across the nation including the Mexican barrios of Ventura County. The exhibit features artifacts, photographs and stories from local communities.

Museum of Ventura County, 100 E. Main St., Ventura. Through Nov. 30. $3-$4. (805) 653-0323. venturamuseum.org.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT Selections from the Frederick R. Weisman Art Foundation. This exhibition spotlights a diverse group of contemporary artists who comment on our relationship to the natural world. It features works by artists such as Ed Ruscha, Joe Goode, Peter Alexander, Chuck Arnoldi, and many younger talents. Pepperdine University, Frederick R. Weisman Museum of Art, 24255 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu. Tues.-Sun. through Nov. 30.

Free. arts.pepperdine.edu.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25

SCARIUM OF THE PACIFIC

Discover creatures lurking in the depths of the sea. This spooktacular educational event is fun for the whole family. Enjoy special Halloween programs, including the annual children’s costume contest, the creepy coloring contest, face painting, magic shows, underwater pumpkin carving, spooky storytelling, kooky crafts and eerie animals in the Great Hall. Aquarium of the Pacific, 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach. Also Oct. 26. $15$26. (562)590-3100. aquariumofpacific.org.

CALIFORNIA DREAMIN’ The Sounds of Laurel Canyon 1965-1977: Explore the story of the Los Angeles rock scene from the mid-1960s to mid-1970s, a golden age of music, creativity and culture. The Grammy Museum at L.A. Live, Special Exhibits Gallery, 800 W. Olympic Blvd., Los Angeles. Through Nov. 30. $12-$13.

(213) 765-6803. grammymuseum.org.

ROUTE 66: THE ROAD AND THE ROMANCE Learn the facts and fiction surrounding the most famous road in America through more than 200 artifacts that trace the history of the road and its impact on American popular culture. See the oldest existing Route 66 shield along with vintage gas pumps and neon art. Read from the pages of John Steinbeck’s original handwritten manuscript for “The Grapes of Wrath” and Jack Kerouac’s typewriter scroll of “On the Road.” Be moved

by Dorothea Lange’s powerful photographs and Woody Guthrie’s Martin guitar, along with countless objects adorned with the Route 66 moniker or acquired along the route. The Autry National Center, Gamble Firearms Gallery, 4700 Western Heritage Way, Griffith Park, Los Angeles.

Through Jan. 4. $6-$10. (323) 667-2000. theautry.org.

Get the Word Out. E-mail your announcements to Claire Fadden, cfadden@lifeafter50.com. Include a brief description, location, date, time, cost, phone and website. Submission does not guarantee publication. Deadline for the November/December calendar is Oct. 1.

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For more information please contact : DrugStudyUCLA@gmail.com or call 310-794-1021 Upon completion, you will receive $150 Study conducted by AC Burggren, Ph.D. UCLA Dept of Psychiatry October 2014 LIFEAFTER50.COM 41

Traveling Around…The Corner…And The World

You Must Spend Christmas Time In The City New York City offers holiday magic that is unsurpassed and unforgettable

By Max Andrews • Photos courtesy of MSG Entertainment

N

o matter what the season, a visit to New York City will always provide you with an exciting, entertaining and memorable time of historical, cultural and gastronomical delights, but the Big Apple takes on a unique aura during November and December that can only be described as magical. One can roam the globe during the holiday season and never experience anything that even comes close to matching the majestic vibrancy of Christmastime in New York.

In a world that offers uncountable opportunities – both man-made and natural – for the curious and excitement-seeking traveler, there are some things that simply must be experienced, and spending a Christmas in Gotham is one of them. There are so many things to see and do during the holiday season – endless opportunities that will make you feel as though you have been sucked into one of those classic Christmas films you’ve been watching since you were a kid.

The sparkling decorations and lights on midtown buildings, hotels, department stores and boutiques, the twirling ice skaters, heralding angels and towering Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center, and the glittering window displays along Fifth Avenue serve as a reallive Candy Cane Lane that could capture the wide-eyed wonder and infuse the warmth of goodwill toward men even in old Scrooge himself.

While there are few things as magically surreal as having lunch at Tavern on the Green in a snow-covered Central Park, warming yourself with some hot cocoa after a skating session under the watchful eyes of Prometheus in Rockefeller Center, or sipping a lateevening toddy in some tucked-away tavern in Tribeca or Greenwich Village as a sultry chanteuse transforms traditional carols into bluesy ballads, let’s be honest – there is one thing you simply must do if you are in New York in December – attend the Radio City Christmas Spectacular.

As unique today as it was during its debut performance in 1932, the show features over 140 performers, lavish sets, costumes and an original musical score. The revue, which stars the worldfamous Rockettes, combines singing, dancing and 42 LIFEAFTER50.COM October 2014

humor in spectacular stage settings. From the 36 Rockettes and their 72 legs moving in perfect synchronization, to the parade of the wooden soldiers, a high-tech dazzling snow scene, and an unforgettable living Nativity with live camels, sheep and donkeys, it is a show that simply has to be seen to be believed.

“Each holiday season, the Radio City Christmas Spectacular brings families, friends and loved ones together like nothing else, and this year, we are proud to present the most immersive experience yet,” said Don Simpson, executive vice president of productions for MSG Entertainment. “The 2014 production will combine traditional favorites and dynamic new numbers, including the return of a beloved classic that features the Rockettes as rag dolls.

We are dedicated to providing our fans with a holiday tradition they can look forward to, beginning with the moment they arrive at Radio City.”

Have A Rockette Moment

After you have arrived at the legendary theater and marveled at the Swarovski Christmas tree decorated with over 10,000 crystals and suspended above Radio City Music Hall’s Grand Foyer, be sure to make your way up to the First Mezzanine and have your photo taken with one of the Rockettes. The lines do get long, so arrive early.

Or Make It A VIP Rockette Experience

You can also arrange to take a dance class with members of the Rockettes who will teach you choreography from the show. This VIP experience, with very limited availability, also includes a mock audition, a question and answer session, a photo op and more. The price for this once-ina-lifetime experience, which also includes a ticket to the show and the

Radio City Stage Door Tour is $225 and can be booked through www.broadwaydancecenter.com. What better Christmas present could you give to yourself than the life-long memory of having danced with a real Rockette?

Go Behind The Scenes

The Radio City Stage Door Tour offers an insider’s look at Radio City Music Hall. On this guided tour, you’ll be shown Art Deco masterpieces, learn the secrets of how the Christmas Spectacular comes together, and meet a Rockette. Tours run daily and are $24 for adults and $18 for those over 62.

If spending the holidays in New York sounds good to you, the time to act is right now. The 2014 Radio City Christmas Spectacular will run from November 7 through December 31 and tickets are available now at www.Ticketmaster.com or by calling (866) 858-0007. For more information on the show, the VIP Rockette Experience or tour, click on www. ª radiocitychristmas.com.

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Our Studio, one, and two-bedroom condominiums provide ample space and the comforts of home to relax after a fun-filled day. Our heated pool is open seasonally with hot tub open year-round. Our on-site resort amenities serve as the premier spot to relax and enjoy South Lake Tahoe. Call today (866) 469-8222 or visit www.8664myvacation.com.

PISMO COAST VILLAGE RV RESORT – Located right on the beach, this beautifully landscaped RV resort features 400 full hookup sites, each with complimentary Wi-Fi and cable TV, on 26 grassy, tree-lined acres. Enjoy general Store, children’s arcade, restaurant, laundromat, heated pool, bicycle rentals and miniature golf course. The resort offers the ideal location for wineries, golf or Hearst Castle. Pismo Coast Village RV Resort was awarded the 2007/2008 National RV Park of the Year. Ask about our mid-week fall specials. (888) RVBEACH or www.PismoCoastVillage.com

BIG SUR LODGE is located in ancient groves of redwood and oak trees in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Big Sur, California. Guests are invited to THE BEACH HOUSE INN is an intimate oceanside property located step back in time to an earlier, more peaceful era. Our 61 cottage-style on the Pacific Coast Hwy 1 in Fort Bragg, California. Choose from 30 guest rooms, each with its own deck or porch, are located on a hillside, within walking distance of our restaurant, gift shop, and grocery store. luxurious rooms with amenities such as fireplaces, large TVs, HBO, Your stay at the Big Sur Lodge includes free access to Pfeiffer Big Sur extended cable, WI-FI, private balconies and large soaking tubs for two. Framed by an Estuary, natural creek views are captured by the State Park, Andrew Molera State Park and Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. (800) 424-4787 or www.BigSurLodge.com balcony windows - with the beach and bicycle path just a 500 foot RIVERSIDE DOWNTOWN PARTNERSHIP – Riverside is home to a walk away. Ideal for travelers and bird fans alike, the Beach House Inn number of historic landmarks and special attractions, ranging from is minutes by car to Fort Bragg or Mendocino. Designated pet-friendly THE CURLY REDWOOD LODGE is one of northern California’s most unique lodges. It was built from one curly redwood tree that produced 57,000 board feet of lumber. We are 5 minutes away from the Redwood National and State Parks; right across the street from our lovely harbor and beaches. After a day of hiking the redwood forests or walking our pristine beaches you can relax at the lodge and watch the beautiful sunsets over the harbor and smell the fresh ocean air. What a storybook ending to a Available October 1 through November 25, 2014 perfect day! (707) 464-2137 or www.CurlyRedwoodLodge.com

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Contents

October 2014

18

27

Cover Profile

18 Rich Little – In His Own Voice

The legendary impressionist on his career, the showbiz and political giants he’s worked with, and how he really feels about getting older.

features 27 The Days Of Booze And Bunnies

Take a hop back in time to the excitement and entertainment of the Playboy Clubs.

31 Sustaining Hope in the Face of Breast Cancer

Valuable information on retaining hope if cancer is diagnosed.

34 The Look Of Life After 50 – Dawn Wells

The “Gilligan’s Island” star has become a modern-day messenger for Mary Ann morals.

39 A Parkinson’s Primer

Information, understanding and support for patients, family members, friends and care partners.

Cover photo by Sampsel and Preston Photography/Courtesy of RLP, Inc All material published within this issue of “Life After 50” and on www.lifeafte50.com is strictly for informational and educational purposes only. No individual, advice, product or service is in any way endorsed by “Life After 50” or Southland Publishing, Inc. or provided as a substitute for the reader’s seeking of individualized professional advice or instruction. Readers should seek the advice of qualified professional on any matter regarding an individual, advice, recommendations, services or products covered within this issue.

All information and material is provided to readers with the understanding that it comes from various sources from which there is no warranty or responsibility by “Life after 50” or Southland Publishing, Inc. as to its or their legality, completeness or technical accuracy.

34

46

DePartments 06 50-PLuS: WHAT YOu NEED TO KNOW

A quick look at things 50-plusers should be aware of.

09 Financial Fitness

William Jordan addresses the concerns of retirees running out of money.

10 It’s The Law

Mitchell A. Karasov on making peace-of-mind provisions.

30 Cooking, Eating And Living Well

Jackie Keller on making research-tested happiness boosters your goal.

42 Tuned In To What’s On

The best in October television viewing.

43 Let’s Get Out

Looking to get out and about? Our October/November calendar has some great suggestions.

46 Traveling Around…The Corner…And The World

New York City offers must-see holiday magic that is unsurpassed and unforgettable.

50 And Finally…The Bookworm’s Best, A Look Back and Just A Thought Before We Go

Our October book suggestion, memory, and a little something to leave you with.

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Editor’s Note...

Coming Clean On “The Question”

G “

inger or Mary Ann?” While working on this month’s issue, which includes a feature on Dawn Wells, who played Mary Ann on “Gilligan’s Island,” I was besieged with that question by just about everyone who knew I would be interviewing her.

Right up there with “the chicken or the egg” and “the meaning of life,” it seems the “Ginger or Mary Ann” question is one that guys have been pressed to answer since the seven stranded castaways first crawled onto the shore of that desert isle back in 1964.

A pop-psychological parlor game question that is more typically asked to ascertain insight on a guy’s psyche rather than his simple preference as to whom he would prefer to be marooned with – the glamorous and worldly Ginger Grant or the all-American farmgirl Mary Ann Summers – the question, and its answer, have inspired endless (and usually alcohol-fueled) debates, essays, sermons and even psychological profiles.

As for the answer: since the question was first posed a half-century ago, the wholesome ingénue has always outpolled the sexy siren by a sizable margin.

Whenever I’ve been so questioned, I have typically skirted answering with the type of avoidance that members of Congress reserve for, well, everything.

While I did date a few Mary Anns, and even had a longterm relationship with one, the vast majority of females I have been romantically involved with have been Gingers. I also married the Gingeriest of Gingers.

So do I prefer the glamour-girl type? Maybe – although that doesn’t really fit with my other preferences. I am not a foodie. In fact, I have a real distaste for arrogantly fancy and fussy eats. I’m the

same with wine, which I like, but couldn’t tell a $5 bottle from a $5,000 one. I’ve never been enamored of cars. Whether it be the Rolls Royce of cars (which I guess, would in fact, be a Rolls Royce) or some sexy speedster, I couldn’t care less. Basically, I’m a pretty content chap with simple tastes, very few needs and hardly any wants. So perhaps it is the Mary Ann lack of pretension I am attracted to.

While “the question” was never posed to me directly by Wells (thank God!), she did offer her reasons as to why Mary Ann always betters Ginger when it’s asked. “Mary Ann didn’t flaunt her sex appeal, but she had it,” she told me. “She was attainable, as a girlfriend or a friend – someone you could trust. Everyone related to her – young boys, girls, moms, dads. She was a very giving person – a team player who had a strong moral compass. Ginger, on the other hand, was a movie star, and wanted to be treated like one. If you analyze all the characters on the show, she did the least to help in any situation. That was because she would have been used to having things done for her.”

Well, okay, I agree with that, although it doesn’t really do anything to secure my vote one way or another.

I guess, if you really want my answer as to what television character I would prefer to be marooned with on a desert isle, here it is: I would be thrilled with either Ginger or Mary Ann for a few weeks. By then, because I’m no builder or fisher or hunter, I’d probably be ready to turn in either of them for Angus MacGyver.

David Laurell, Editor-in-Chief

Advertising Director/Associate Publisher Valarie Anderson Editor David Laurell Editorial Assistants Steve Stoliar, Marie Giusto Blauvelt, Max Andrews Associate Editor Claire Yezbak Fadden Travel Editor Ed Boitano Art Director Ernesto Esquivel Account Executives Los Angeles/South Bay: Jackie Kooper Jackiek@lifeafter50.com Orange County: Herb Wetenkamp Herbw@lifeafter50.com San Diego County National Accounts: Phil Mendelson Phil@lifeafter50.com VP Of Finance Michael T. Nagami Human Resources Andrea E. Baker Business Manager Linda Lam Billing Supervisor Kacie Sturek VP Of Operations David Comden For advertising/distribution inquiries contact: Valarie Anderson (310) 822-1629 x 121, Valarie@lifeafter50.com To contact our editorial department: (818) 563-1007 davidl@lifeafter50.com To contact our travel editor: (818) 985-8132 eboitano@lifeafter50.com 5355 Mcconnell Ave LA CA 90066 Valarie Anderson Valarie@lifeafter50.com 310 822-1629 x 121 Follow us on face book ©2014 Southland Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved

46 LIFEAFTER50.COM October 2014

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50

A Read That’s Hard To Beat

R

PLUS

What You Need to Know

By Claire Yezbak Fadden

ich in personal detail and the history of pop and Latin music from the 1970s and ’80s, the world-renowned singer, drummer and percussionist Sheila E’s justreleased autobiography, “The Beat of My Own Drum” (Atria Books, 2014), is a unique glimpse into this fascinating woman’s life. Born Sheila Escovedo in 1957, she started making music at the age of three, inspired by her legendary father, percussionist Pete Escovedo. Her memoir, rife with stories of Carlos Santana, Prince, Marvin Gaye, Lionel Richie and Ringo Starr, is also a heartbreaking and ultimately redemptive look at how the sanctity of music can save a person’s life. Having endured sexual abuse as a child, Sheila credits her parents, music and God with giving her the will to carry on and to build a lasting legacy.

The Signs Of Suicide

A

lthough the initial shock and sting of Robin Williams’ death have subsided, Americans are still bewildered over why the beloved comedic actor took his own life. Sadly, the suicide rate for Americans from 45 to 64 has jumped more than 30 percent in the last decade, according to a recently released Centers for Disease Control report. And, as with Williams, the suicide rate among white, middle-aged men has jumped by more than 50 percent and is among the top five causes of death of men in their 50s. The situation is even more dramatic for white, middle-aged women, who experienced a 60 percent rise in suicide in that same period.

If you have a friend or loved one you may be concerned about, please find a way to have an open and honest discussion with him or her about your concerns. While some who are contemplating suicide are good at masking their intent, there are usually signs that may include: • Prolonged sense of sadness and depression • Withdrawal from friends and activities • Reduced ability to concentrate • Expressing excessive fears or worries • Extreme mood changes • Detachment from reality • Major changes in eating habits and/or alcohol or drug use • Excessive anger, hostility or violence • Talk of committing suicide If you know someone who displays any of those traits, offer encouragement and support, help them find a qualified help, and make an appointment. If you

ever find yourself in a situation that someone has done self-harm or is seriously considering doing so, call for emergency help right away.

• Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.

• Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at (800) 273-8255. Use that same number and press 1 to reach the Veterans Crisis Line.

Fifty Candles

Happiness Is Contagious

ifty years ago this month, the Free Speech Movement was launched at the University of California-Berkley; the Summer Olympic games opened in Tokyo; Martin Luther King Jr. won the Nobel Peace Prize; China became the world’s fifth nuclear power; the New York Yankees fired Manager Yogi Berra; Northern Rhodesia became the independent Republic of Zambia, ending 73 years of British rule; and the Rolling Stones made their first appearance on “The Ed Sullivan Show.” Notables born in October 1964 who are celebrating their 50th birthday this month include chef Bobby Flay, singer and songwriter Toby Mac, California State Attorney General Kamala Harris, actors Clive Owen and Michael Boatman, NASA astronaut Sandra Magnus and reality television show host Ty Pennington.

appiness spreads far and wide through a social network, according to researchers from the University of California San Diego and Harvard Medical School. The study of some 5,000 people shows that happiness loves company. Happy people tend to cluster together and, on the surface, people with more social contacts seem generally happier. Contentment spreads in a social network up to three degrees of separation: You are 15 percent more likely to be happy if directly connected to a happy person; 10 percent if it’s the friend of a friend who is happy; and six percent if it’s the friend of a friend of a friend. On average, every happy friend increases your own chances of being happy by nine percent, while each unhappy friend decreases it by seven percent.

F

48 LIFEAFTER50.COM October 2014

H

A Little More You Need To Know

Where You Need To Go Photos courtesy of Maria Bryk/Newseum

The Boomer List: Photographs By Timothy Greenfield-Sanders

T

oday’s 50-plusers have had a profound impact on the world, shaking up attitudes about sex, race and politics, and leaving their mark on everything from science and technology to art and music. As part of a yearlong celebration of the last of the baby boomers turning 50 this year, the Newseum in Washington, D.C. has opened The Boomer List: Photographs by Timothy GreenfieldSanders, an exhibit featuring 19 large-format portraits of influential 50-plusers taken by Timothy Greenfield-Sanders – one born each year of the baby boom, from 1946 to 1964.

Greenfield-Sanders, an award-winning photographer and filmmaker, chose subjects who reflect the depth, diversity and talent of their generation. Among the 19 men and women selected for The Boomer List are actor Samuel L. Jackson, singer and songwriter Billy Joel, fashion designer Tommy Hilfiger, author Amy Tan, journalist Maria Shriver, environmentalist Erin Brockovich, and artist David LaChapelle.

In addition to the 19 portraits, a timeline of historic

New Words

Y

ou might not find them in a dictionary yet, but they’re a part of the everyday American vocabulary. Here’s what they mean.

Catfished: Being romantically deceived over social media outlets such as Facebook by someone who isn’t who they claim to be.

Cyberbaiting: The act of taunting someone until they lose self-control while recording the unprofessional behavior and then posting the video on social networking sites.

Jelly: Shortened version of jealous.

events that defined the baby boom generation will also be displayed along with a collection of iconic boomer artifacts including an original 1959 Barbie doll, a 1964 G.I. Joe action figure, a transistor radio and a U.S. Army draft card from 1965.

The exhibition, which will run through July 2015, will also features a “scent station” with memorable aromas familiar to boomers including whiffs of baby powder to represent the 76 million-plus babies born between 1946 and 1964; fresh-cut grass, a reminder of the move to the suburbs; and incense, evoking the musky aroma of rebellion, flower power and love-ins.

The Newseum is located at 555 Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, D.C. For more information, click on www. newseum.org.

The Most Important Thing To Know This Month

W

hile most Americans are aware that October is football season, it is also National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This year, the National Football League is once again proud to support the cause with their nationwide campaign, A Crucial Catch that was established in 2009 and has raised more than $6 million to fight breast cancer. Presented in collaboration with the American Cancer Society, the program promotes breast cancer awareness and encourages women 40 and older to get annual mammograms to catch breast cancer in the early stages, when treatment is most successful.

During the 2014 campaign players are sporting special NFL shield/pink ribbon stickers on their helmets with pink sideline towels, gloves, and cleats also being provided. Coaches and team executives are wearing pink ribbon pins, and game officials are donning pins and special pink ribbon hats. Special footballs with pink ribbon logos are also being used in each game and all NFL football fields are featuring the A Crucial Catch pink ribbon stencil on their 25-yard lines.

In addition, many teams will extend the reach of the NFL’s nationwide platform through local grassroots efforts focused on promoting breast cancer screenings, honoring breast cancer survivors, and planning special in-stadium or pregame events in partnership with the society.

A Crucial Catch will also be highlighted on NFL Network and www.NFL.com with a special microsite, NFL.com/pink that will feature stories of women who have benefited from breast cancer programs in their community.

You can be a part of this exciting campaign in numerous ways: * Sign up online at www.NFL.com/pink, start a team and do fundraising to show your support.

You will be equipped with all the online tools you need. * Challenge your local schools and organizations to sign up and create teams and friendly competitions. * Wear pink throughout the month of October, on game day and every day. * Click on www.NFL.com/pink to bid on footballs and game-worn pink items that will be auctioned with all proceeds benefiting the American Cancer Society. You can also purchase pink-accent sideline hats and other pink campaign items at all NFL stadiums or by clicking on www.

NFLSHOP.com.

October 2014 LIFEAFTER50.COM 49

Chicago Doctor Invents Affordable Hearing Aid Outperforms Many Higher Priced Hearing Aids

Reported by J. Page Chicago: Board-certified physician Dr. S. Cherukuri has done it once again with his newest invention of a medical grade ALL DIGITAL affordable hearing aid.

This new digital hearing aid is packed with all the features of $3,000 competitors at a mere fraction of the cost. Now, most people with hearing loss are able to enjoy crystal clear, natural sound—in a crowd, on the phone, in the wind — without suffering through “whistling” and annoying background noise.

New Digital Hearing Aid Outperforms Expensive Competitors This sleek, lightweight, fully programmed hearing aid is the outgrowth of the digital revolution that is changing our world.

While demand for “all things digital” caused most prices to plunge (consider DVD players and computers, which originally sold for thousands of dollars and today can be purchased for less then $100), yet the cost of a digital medical hearing aid remained out of reach.

Dr. Cherukuri knew that many of his patients would benefit but couldn’t afford the expense of these new digital hearing aids. Generally they are not covered by Medicare and most private health insurance.

Nearly Invisible!

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The doctor evaluated all the high priced digital hearing aids on the market, broke them down to their base components, and then created his own affordable version— called the MDHearingAid® AIR for its virtually invisible, lightweight appearance.

Affordable Digital Technology Using advanced digital technology, the MDHearingAid®AIR automatically adjusts to your listening environment—prioritizing speech and de-emphasizing background noise.

Experience all of the sounds you’ve been missing at a price you can afford. This doctor designed and approved hearing aid comes with a full year’s supply of long-life batteries. It delivers crisp, clear sound all day long and the soft flexible ear buds are so comfortable you won’t realize you’re wearing them.

Try It Yourself At Home With Our 45 Day Risk-Free Trial Of course, hearing is believing and we invite you to try it for yourself with our RISK-FREE 45-day home trial. If you are not completely satisfied, simply return it within that time period for a full refund of your purchase price.

Can a hearing aid delay or prevent dementia?

A study by Johns Hopkins and National Institute on Aging researchers suggests older individuals with hearing loss are significantly more likely to develop dementia over time than those who retain their hearing. They suggest that an intervention—such as a hearing aid—could delay or prevent dementia by improving hearing!

“Satisfied Buyers Agree AIR Is Best Digital Value!”

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s a wealth manager and financial advisor to those in or soon to enter retirement, the question “What will happen if I run out of money?” is posed to me as often as any other. It is the first and most-significant issue to address.

The questions “Could I run out of money?” or “How much can I spend without running out of money?” are at the heart of financial planning. Spend too much too soon and a bad year such as 2008 can jeopardize your entire retirement.

Spend too little for too long, and you will wake up one day realizing you sacrificed your lifestyle needlessly and are now sitting on a pile of money you could not possibly spend.

Given this dilemma, I say, without hesitation, that most people who have actively saved for retirement work longer than they need to, retire later than they could, and spend less money in the first 10 years of retirement than they should.

If you hope to retire sooner or are already retired and would enjoy a higher level of income right now, read on.

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Depending on the client’s situation, I have found that annual incomes of 5.2 to 5.7 percent are possible with no risk to principal, and incomes of 6.3 to as high as 7.2 percent are possible with some risk. The bottom line: someone with a million dollars could be receiving anywhere from $11,000 to $31,000 more income each year with the proper planning.

The first key factor is your safe-money rate of return. I have often written and spoken about how investors can earn seven percent on their safe money even in today’s environment, so I won’t elaborate on that point. However, if you have missed those articles, contact our office for a free copy of my book, “The Seven Percent Solution.”

The second key factor is your willingness to take any principal risk with your investments. Some clients prefer to have a plan giving them less income, but with no possible risk of running out of money. For some, knowing there is no way they could ever run out of money is well worth taking a lower annual distribution. For others, they are willing to leave some of their money in the stock market or other somewhat risk-oriented investments, because it will give them a higher income over their retirement. Regardless of your comfort with risk, odds are you are receiving less income from your investments than you should.

Ironically, some of those who come into my office looking for more income are taking less because they have too much risk in their portf portfolio, not because they don’t have enough. If you have too great a percentage of your assets in risky investments (stocks, for example), it forces you to be overly cautious with your spending. After all, if there is the chance you could lose half of your investments, as happened to many in 2008, you have to take as little income as possible to protect yourself against that worst-case scenario.

Without reviewing a specific portfolio, I can’t completely speak to the issues of

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My wife and I bought long term care insurance years ago when we set up our family trust. I’m really glad we had these plans, because she ended up needing a few years of care at home. The plan only covered a fixed amount below the cost for the first two years, so we had to withdraw substantial sums from our IRA savings to cover the difference until she passed. It was getting tough for me to pay the premium, since I only have a fixed income, my home and IRA accounts. My son started paying for the insurance so I would have the coverage for the care I will need. He tried to get me a better policy to cover everything, but I’m not eligible. After I pass, I want to make sure that he is reimbursed for that amount, as well as any other expenses my other kids have fronted or may help with in the future.

What documents could I add to my trust so that I am assured they will get reimbursed?

Letting your son help you with the long term care premiums was a wise decision. As you know, the long term care insurance provides you with more care options and minimizes the depletion of your estate for actual care costs. In addition, the policy maximizes your benefits-planning options to cover all or a substantial portion of your care costs. To make sure that your kids stand a better chance to recoup any expenses paid out for you at the end of your life, you have some options in addition to modifying your trust.

Your trust should include a provision that identifies any monies paid out by your children and the plan for payment. You may want to consider allowing repayment before your death, in the event you need to apply for Long Term Care MediCal benefits. You may also want to use similar language in your power of attorney for finances since you also hold non-trust assets. It would also be advisable to sign a promissory note on reasonable terms, including but not limited to any interest rate, terms to trigger repayment, and the potential for any additional sums loaned.

Since your long term care policy didn’t cover a significant portion of your wife’s care costs, it’s reasonable to assume that your policy doesn’t either.

Taking that into consideration and the fact that you’re not eligible for a new or additional policy, you would be a good candidate for Long Term Care MediCal planning. Unfortunately, most people that have a long term care policy don’t believe they can receive the benefit, or they mistakenly think their long term care policy is sufficient. Once you’re eligible for this Long Term Care MediCal program, the government can cover certain care costs above long term care insurance. Your trust and power of attorney for finance should include language about Long Term Care MediCal planning. Since one of your goals is to protect your children’s ability to receive reimbursement, I would encourage you to have a MediCal plan done at the same time.

If you take the steps above, you will be giving yourself, as well as your thoughtful children, protection and peace of mind. I wish you all the best. ª

A

See our digital issue at www.

52 LIFEAFTER50.COM October 2014

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Low-level laser therapy is not just the medicine of the future. For many people who know about it, it is the “medicine” they use now. The problem of trying to explain the healing powers of low-level laser therapy is...

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Call 1-800-303-6923 ...after you are connected, at the prompt, press the code number - 6529 - into your keypad then leave your name and mailing information. That number again is 1-800-303-6923, Code 6529. Your free report ... and free gift (if you’re one of the first 200 callers) will be sent to you via 1st Class Mail.

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Rich

Little

In His Own Voice Story by David Laurell

The legendary impressionist’s impressions on the show business and political giants he’s worked with, why he doesn’t do many current stars, and how he really feels about getting older

W

ith each October comes Halloween, the one day of the year in which everyone can revel in the fun of being someone else. In a way, every day, for well over 60 years, has been Halloween for Rich Little who, as the world’s premier impressionist, has vocally transformed himself into just about every well-known person and character of the 20th century from Alan Ladd (his childhood hero), Gary Cooper, Clark Gable, Johnny Carson, George Burns, Edith Bunker, Kermit the Frog and Dr. Ruth Westheimer, to United States Presidents John F. Kennedy, Lyndon Johnson, Richard Nixon, Gerald Ford, Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan, Bill Clinton, both George Bushes and Barack Obama.

Born in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada in 1948, Richard Little was the second of three sons born to medical doctor Lawrence Little and his wife Elizabeth. Having discovered his talent for mimicry by imitating his teachers in grade school, young Rich honed his uncanny ability to do voices by carefully listening to the greats of the silver screen that starred in the films being shown at an Ottawa movie theater where he served as an usher.

By the time he was in his early teens, Little had partnered with a friend, Geoff Scott, who also had the ability to do impersonations, and the duo began performing professionally in night clubs that they otherwise would not have been old enough to enter.

Further honing his performance skills by appearing in productions staged by Ottawa’s Little Theatre, Little went on to pursue a career in broadcasting. Securing a job as a radio disc jockey and talk show host, who liberally peppered his banter with impressions, Little once used his microphone to stage an April Fool’s Day stunt by hosting an afternoon show as Elvis Presley. While the fallout was less dramatic than the thousands of American radio listeners who panicked, thinking the nation was under attack by aliens, when Orson

60 LIFEAFTER50.COM October 2014

Welles broadcast his infamous “War of the Worlds” program in 1938, Little’s gag saw his station besieged by more than 500 Presley fans who believed the “King of Rock ‘n Roll” was actually broadcasting from the studio.

Continuing to perform in night clubs and on Canadian television programs, Little met and befriended singer Mel Tormé who, at the time, was working with Judy Garland on the creation of a new variety show. When “The Judy Garland Show” came to fruition on CBS in 1964, the booking of Little marked his American television debut and served as a springboard that would propel him to the summit of the mimic mountain when he was still in his early 20s.

Embraced by American audiences from his appearances on the variety shows of Ed Sullivan, Jackie Gleason and Glen Campbell, the 1970s saw Little became a semi-regular on “The Dean Martin Celebrity Roasts,” “The Julie Andrews Hour” and “The John Davidson Summer Show.” Little also released nine albums, hosted his own variety program, “The Rich Little Show,” starred on the show “KopyKats,” and, due to his successful appearances on “The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson,” was tapped to guest host the venerable latenight chat show. That guest-hosting experience, along with Little’s uncanny impression of the show’s legendary host, saw him cast as Johnny Carson in the 1996 HBO production, “The Late Shift,” which chronicled the fight between David Letterman and Jay Leno to become Carson’s successor.

As an actor, Little has appeared in numerous shows including “The Young and the Restless,” “Fantasy Island,” “Chips,” “Murder She Wrote,” “Hawaii Five-O,” “MacGyver,” “Police Woman” and “Mannix.” He has also stepped in to assist other actors when they were unavailable or unable to complete productions. When David Niven became too ill to complete work on the 1983 film, “Curse of the Pink Panther,” Little provided the actor’s voice in postproduction dubbing. He did the same for Peter Sellers who had passed away prior to the completion of 1982’s “The Trail

Photos by Sampsel and Preston Photography/Courtesy of RLP, Inc

ªCover Profile ª

October 2014 LIFEAFTER50.COM 61

of the Pink Panther.” Over the years, Little has also provided the voice for other actors including Stacy Keach, Gene Kelly and Ernest Borgnine.

Along with his work in entertainment. Little, who became a United States citizen in 2010, has always been involved in charitable work to raise funds for the homeless, animals in need, and children. He has been inducted into Miami Children’s Hospital International Pediatrics Hall of Fame and been honored by the naming of the Rich Little Special Care Nursery at Ottawa Civic Hospital.

The father of two adult daughters, as well as a grandfather, Little, who lives in Las Vegas, has been touring with his “Laugh A Little” comedy show as well as his self-written, one-man play, “Jimmy Stewart and Friends.” Currently writing a book and a show about his remarkable life, Little, who will turn 76 next month, recently sat down with Life After 50 to share his impressions on his career, some of the legends he has impersonated, why he does very few current celebrities and his thoughts on the passing of time.

Our visit with “The Man of a Thousand Voices” began by asking him to recall those early days of his career.

Rich Little (RL): While I owe so much to Mel Tormé, I always joke that it was the actor James Mason who gave me my big break – although I had never met him and he had no idea who I was. I had done a lot of television in Canada, where I met Mel, and we became instant friends. At the time, he was doing some musical work on a variety show that Judy Garland was planning and he pitched me for the show. He played a tape of me doing my act for Judy who wasn’t very impressed, until I did James Mason, whom she had starred with in “A Star is Born.” She got such a kick out of that impression she said: “Book him.” Years later, I met Mason, who didn’t know me from Adam and I thanked him for giving me my first break. He looked at me like I was crazy and mumbled something [laughing].

Life After 50 (LA50): You first realized you had a gift to mimic people’s voices when you were very young doing impressions of your teachers at school.

But there’s a big difference between being able to do voices and doing standup comedy. Did you also always feel you had the ability to be a comedian?

RL: That’s right that I started imitating teachers at school, which always got great reactions. But I never intended to be a comedian. When I first started performing professionally, as a kid, the thought of being a comic was the furthest thing from my mind.

I always thought of myself as an impersonator. But I realized very soon that no matter how good of an impersonator you may be, you do have to be a comedian to some extent, because you have to be able to say something funny. I have been very fortune, since the early days of my career, to have had a lot of great writers provide me with material. When I was doing the Dean Martin roasts, the writers on that show provided me with a lot of material. I would change things, but what they gave me was very helpful. I was also doing a lot of variety shows when I first came to the U.S. and the writers from those shows also provided me with great material. So I started to keep scrapbooks filled with material and later learned that is the same thing Milton Berle and Bob Hope and Jack Benny did. I still have those books. It’s a library of jokes and material for each character I do.

62 LIFEAFTER50.COM October 2014

LA50: Are there any voices you really have down but don’t do in shows because you just don’t have the right material for them?

RL: Yeah, there are a lot of voices I do of more obscure character actors that I really don’t have material for. But the real reason I would not do them in a show would be because they are not that well-known. You have to stay with the ones people know. That is why I love singing impressions.

People love them and because you have builtin material with the song, they are immediately recognizable. If I do Dean Martin singing “That’s Amore,” it totally works.

LA50: Speaking of Dean Martin, those old roasts Dean did were among some of the best television ever produced.

RL: I loved doing them, of course, and I think the Sinatra roast was the best of them all. Those roasts showcased some of the world’s most incredible performers – the likes of which we will never see again. That really was the golden age of comedy.

I was in a restaurant in Florida awhile back and there was a picture on the wall that was taken during the Sinatra roast. And there I was, my baby face amongst these giants and superstars of show business. I looked at it closely and it was very sad because, out of the 20 or so in the picture, there are only a couple of us still around – Don Rickles, Ruth Buzzi.

LA50: The roast of Jimmy Stewart captured one of your most classic performances – when you tried to teach him how to “do” Jimmy Stewart.

RL: [laughing] That was one of my all-time favorites. It really was all impromptu. It had not been planned. Jimmy and I had never discussed what we would do. I just knew that I would show him how to do him and then, when he tried, tell him he was doing it badly. That was the premise, but he and I had never discussed it. It was totally all adlibbed and it just worked perfectly. At the end of the bit he said: [going into his Stewart impersonation] “Wah-wha-wah-well now that’s not very good is it?” And I said: “Not good! That’s the WORST Jimmy Stewart I’ve ever heard!” I said that even the audience could do it better than him and then gave the entire audience a lesson on doing Jimmy Stewart. We got very lucky with that one, because it just worked so perfectly. Jimmy was actually very funny, in a dry way. He had a great sense of humor and when I started doing that bit, he knew exactly what I was going for.

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LA50: Along with Stewart, one of your most popular impressions has been that of Johnny Carson. You were the first one to point out all of his hand gestures and quirks and tics. So here’s an observation for you to comment on: In his later years, Carson seemed to curtail some of those mannerisms a bit. Do you think he became a bit more self-conscious about his gestures after you started doing him so spot-on?

RL: I think that is true, yeah. I remember one time watching Carson doing his monologue and right in the middle of it he caught himself doing some classic Carson gesture and he stopped and said” “My God I’m doing Rich Little!”

Once, when I was on “The Dinah Shore Show,” I was doing Carson and, unbeknownst to me, Johnny was backstage. So there I was doing Carson and all of a sudden, I felt someone come up behind me and tap me on the shoulder. I turned around and it was HIM! So we both started to do all of his little tics and mannerisms to one another. That was another great moment.

LA50: When you began working professionally and on up through the 1970s or so, you had a treasure trove of people you did impersonations of.

Do you think it would it be fair to say that the art and the act of being an impressionist is somewhat dying today because, frankly, there just aren’t that many distinctive voices out there anymore?

RL: I totally understand what you’re saying. There are a lot of great – really great – actors out there today. But they are not of the same caliber of those from the 1940s through the 1970s. They don’t have, as you say, the distinctive voices.

There are no John Waynes or Humphrey Bogarts or Clark Gables today.

LA50: If you stood onstage and did a Matthew McConaughey or Brad Pitt or a George Clooney impersonation, no one would know who you were doing.

RL: That’s right. They wouldn’t. Although they are the biggest stars of today.

You could do George Clooney to absolute perfection and I don’t think you would get the slightest reaction from an audience. The same is true of Tom Hanks or Matt Damon. They are great actors, but their voices are not distinctive like a Kirk Douglas or a Cary Grant.

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LA50: Do you think that is due to the cultural homogenization of those who grew up in the television generation. Unlike those who grew up prior to the 1950s or early ‘60s, when people had very distinctive regional dialects or accents, those who grew up from the ‘60s on, no matter where they were from, listened to broadcasters and performers who had been trained that mannerisms and accents were distractions and so they developed that broadcast and acting school “I’m-from-nowhere” delivery.

RL: Yeah, that’s a very insightful observation and I think you’re right. I mean, look at the current crop of big stars on television and in the movies. There is no one who has the distinctive voices or mannerism of a Jimmy Stewart or a Gary Cooper or a Bob Hope, or Johnny Carson or Jack Benny. Now there were those from that past that I could never get, and even if I did get them to perfection, they would not have resonated with an audience because they were not distinct or unique. Rock Hudson is a perfect example of that – a huge star, but not one who would work for an impersonator. You have a lot more of that today. I can’t, off the top of my head, name a current star other than Jack Nicholson and Clint Eastwood that would be immediately recognizable if done by an impressionist.

Certainly no one under 50.

LA50: However, that is a different story when it comes to politicians, huh?

RL: Politicians, especially presidents, have always been the bread-and-butter for any impressionist. You have no choice when it comes to presidents – you HAVE to do them.

LA50: And you have done your impressions of many of them in their presence. Was that ever a bit intimidating?

RL: Well, I once did Nixon in front of him and it went over like a lead balloon [laughing]. He had no idea I was doing him and kept looking around uncomfortably saying: [going into his Nixon impression] “Pat, Pat…why is this young man speaking in such a peculiar way.” Oh, it was just terrible. But most of them loved it. I was once talking to Reagan and telling him how I had studied him and that I noticed he always begin everything he said with the word “well” and would then look down before he started talking. I asked him why he did that – always looked down – and he said: [doing Reagan] “Well, Rich – and there I go with the ‘well’ – if you owned a horse ranch you would find yourself always looking down, too.” [laughing] He was great.

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“I was the face of Laguna Woods TV for 44 years, when it came time for me to retire there was only one person I called William Jordan at William Jordan Capital.”

LA50: Who are your audiences today? I mean, it’s sad to say, but it’s hard to imagine people under 30 even knowing who you would be doing half the time.

RL: That’s right. Young people today don’t come to my shows, because they have no interest in anything from the past. When I was a kid, I was always interested in the past. I was fascinated with the history of show business. I watched all the old stars and knew all their names I listened to the big bands. But today’s kids are only interested in their computers and their phones. They seem to have no interest in history and very little in conversation. When I was a kid, I loved to sit up on our stairs and eavesdrop on the conversations my parents had with their friends. I loved to hear what they were discussing and their different voices and laughs. I can’t imagine a kid doing that today. There seems to be – with the rare exception – a complete lack of interest in things from the past with young people today. They don’t know who John Wayne or Ed Sullivan or Jimmy Stewart or Humphrey Bogart were. And even if they know the names, or what they looked like, they wouldn’t know who I was doing if I were doing them. So I don’t get a young crowd, especially in Vegas where it tends to be older folks who go to the shows. Younger people are at the Hard Rock and going to concerts. They’re not coming to see me.

LA50: Rich, what is a typical day like for you when you are not working?

RL: Well, I work a lot. If I’m not doing a show, I’m working on my material.

I have also been working on a new show that will be about my life and all the giants of this world I’ve crossed paths with throughout my career. So I’ve been working on that and I’m also writing a book about my life that will be called “Little by Little: People I Have Known and Been.” When I’m not working, I like to read. I love biographies. I also love to watch movies – mostly the old ones. I see friends and will occasionally play golf – if no one is watching.

LA50: Your golf game could use some work?

RL: I was out on the course recently and had really duffed the ball badly off the tee and some kid who had been standing down the hill watching me yelled out: “That’s the worst Tiger Woods impression I’ve ever seen!”

LA50: One last question for you Rich. Every day we’re all getting a little bit older. Can you share your impression on aging?

RL: Yes! It sucks and there isn’t anything you can do about it [laughing].

For more information on Rich Little and his upcoming show schedule, click on www.richlittle.com.

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The Days of Booze And Bunnies In her new book, author Patty Farmer lets readers take a “Bunny” hop back in time to the bygone era of exhilarating excitement and entertainment at the Playboy Clubs

By David Laurell

S

o much has been written about Hugh Hefner and the Playboy organization – its philosophy and role in popular culture. But nothing had been written about the Playboy Clubs,” says author Patty Farmer, whose new book, “Playboy On Stage: A History of the World’s Sexiest Nightclubs” (Beaufort Books, 2014) will be released on November 17. “My book has nothing to do with anything that went on at the Playboy Mansion and in the grotto – none of that tabloidy-type stuff that has been written about many times over. My book is about the first-rate entertainment that was provided by the Playboy Clubs that, for over 20 years, were the largest employers of entertainment in the United States.”

When the first Playboy Club opened in Chicago in 1960, the nightclub concept had been in full swing across America for over 40 years. From New York’s Stork and Cotton Clubs to the hot spots of Los Angeles, such as Ciro’s and the Cocoanut Grove, supper and nightclubs had been gathering places for celebrities and the partying jet-setting elite since they began springing up in the 1920s.

While the addition of yet another night spot would have otherwise garnered little attention during the late winter of 1960, from the moment its doors were opened, the foray of Playboy Enterprises into the world of live adult club entertainment proved to be more than merely noteworthy.

“

The Hatching Of Hef’s Hutchs The Chitown Playboy Club, as well as the ones that soon followed in numerous cities throughout the U.S. and abroad, featured a Living Room where local musicians and magicians performed, a Playmate Bar, a Dining Room, and a Club Room that presented world-class entertainment. Admission to, and an evening at, the Playboy Club, was a sign of status for “key-holding” members and their guests, who were served food, cocktails and cigarettes (each priced at $1.50) by Playboy Bunnies, who had already become cultural icons via Playboy magazine.

“When Hugh Hefner opened that first Playboy Club, he gave regular guys the key to participate in his own personal dream,” says Farmer. “The clubs made the average guy feel special. I think the singer Fabian, whom I interviewed for the book, summed it up very well when he said that for the couple of hours a person was at a Playboy Club, they were made to feel like they were suave millionaires.”

Farmer says it was that premise – making the average guy feel special – that was at the core of the club’s success.

“Hefner was a brilliant businessman for many reasons,” Farmer opines. “And he has always been the ultimate host. I have been to his home quite a few times and he has always made me feel that I am welcome and wanted there. I think that had a lot to do with how people felt when they came to the clubs. When anyone stepped into a Playboy Club, they were made to feel that they had been extended a personal invitation to be there and that there was an excitement and an appreciation that they were there.”

While the opportunity to be a member and receive special treatment at a local Photo courtesy of Bettmann/Corbi October 2014 LIFEAFTER50.COM 69

“When Hugh Hefner opened that first Playboy Club, he gave regular guys the key to participate in his own personal dream.”

– Patty Farmer

Photo by Christina Krupka

70 LIFEAFTER50.COM October 2014

yacht, golf or country club was beyond the financial reach of many, that coveted bunny-headed metal key (replaced by a “key card” in 1966) that gave one membership and entrance to a Playboy Club, could be attained by anyone who could fill out a brief application and write a check for $25.

“That was a part of Hefner’s brilliance,” says Farmer. Anyone, of any means, could become a member, and yet he gave a feeling of exclusivity to everyone who had a key. Any guy in the 1960s and ‘70s who had a Playboy Club key felt like they were hot stuff – like they were James Bond, who in one of the films [1971’s “Diamonds Are Forever”], opens his wallet and his Playboy Club card falls out.”

Citing Hefner as a genius at branding, Farmer says he took a word – “playboy” – which simply meant a bachelor who liked the finer things in life, and made it into something that, through the magazine and clubs, represented a lifestyle that resonated with people around the world.

“It was a little bit naughty, but it was something that gave a guy the sense of having made it – of having achieved a certain level of success,” says Farmer. “Again, that was a part of Hefner’s genius, that he could totally convince these young guys in their 20s, who, for the most part, had lives that were very average and not exceptional, that they were special. They may have even been still living with their parents, but once in a Playboy Club, they were suave and sophisticated playboys in their own right. Remember, Hefner’s audience were the children of those who lived through the Great Depression. They were people who, by the time they were in their 20s, had much more than their parents had when they were their age. Hefner and Playboy understood that and stepped right in to teach them things their parents couldn’t – how to properly stock a bar, what stereo equipment to purchase and what music to play, how to dress – how to establish a more sophisticated and worldly image and a lifestyle than their parents ever knew. Young people in the ‘60s and ’70s ate that up.”

The Influenceof Playboy’s Power

While Farmer’s exceptionally well-researched and written tome chronicles the history of the Playboy Clubs, from their heyday to their waning days in the late 1980s and early 1990s, the book dwells mostly on the entertainment side of the clubs.

“When I decided to do this book, I wanted to tell the story of how important the Playboy Clubs were in providing a venue for singers and musicians and comedians of the era,” Farmer explains. “That had never been done before and I wanted the entertainers who worked those clubs – and in many cases, who got their start there – to share their amazing stories. I’m an entertainment historian and I love letting the entertainers themselves tell their stories – it’s an insider’s perspective that no one else can offer.”

According to Farmer, while many books have been written about the Playboy empire and Hefner, no book has covered the company’s impact on 20th-century entertainment. “At the height of their popularity in the mid 1960s and early ‘70s, the Playboy Clubs were, collectively, the largest employers of talent in the United States,” says Farmer. “As such, they exerted a powerful influence on the culture – and politics as well.”

The impact of the latter is pointed out in the book by the pioneering African-American humorist Dick Gregory, who recalls that Hefner and his staff were not only color blind in their hiring of talent, but also used the clubs, as well as the magazine, as a means of furthering an agenda of civil rights and gender equality.

Although Hefner himself was primarily a jazz fan, the range of acts presented in the clubs was always diverse.

From Tony Bennett, Liza Minnelli, Diahann Carroll and Ann-Margret to Sonny and Cher and Ike and Tina Turner,

on any given evening the Playboy Club’s spotlight shone down on a Who’s Who of talent, including Trini Lopez, Lily Tomlin, David Brenner, Jerry Van Dyke, Mitzi Gaynor, Steve Rossi, Joan Rivers, Bobby Rydell, and an up-andcoming impressionist from Canada, who just happens to grace our current cover – Rich Little.

Tapped to play the Miami Playboy Club on very short notice, Little, who was just starting his career in the U.S., told his agent he was working on a new act that he could not have ready that soon. “Don’t worry,” Little’s agent shot back. “With all those Bunnies serving drinks and dinner in skimpy outfits, no one will be paying any attention to you.”

“I played the Miami and Chicago clubs,” says Little, who once had a clandestine relationship with a Bunny (something that was strictly prohibited by Playboy). “When you played a Playboy Club you knew you would always have a very hip audience. They were typically younger crowds who were just great audiences because they were there purely to have a good time. I always felt it was an honor to play a Playboy Club.”

Along with Little’s memories, Farmer’s book also provides the first-hand and behind-the-scenes accounts of numerous entertainers and company insiders including Playboy executive Victor Lownes, singers Lainie Kazan, Al Jarreau and Marlena Shaw, and comedians Larry Storch, Lily Tomlin and Shecky Greene.

“I think, with our world being in the terrible shape it is in today, there are people who look back to that ‘Mad Men’ era – the Playboy Club era – as a time of sophistication and excitement,” says Farmer. “I’m one of them. I was not of the legal age to ever go to a Playboy Club during their heyday, and yet, as I did my research and interviews for this book, I constantly found myself yearning for that time.” ª

A Bunny Hop Back In Time “Playboy on Stage: A History of the World’s Sexiest Nightclubs,” is a page-turning record of what it felt like to be under the spotlight, backstage, and in the audience at the world’s best-loved “key clubs.” Written by Patty Farmer, a businesswoman and former model who divides her time between New York, Southern California and France, it transports readers back to the halcyon night-life days, as did her previous book, “The Persian Room Presents: An Oral History of New York’s Most Magical Night Spots” (Vantage Press, 2012).

For more information on Patty Farmer and to order her books, click on www.patty-farmer.com

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T

hink about the most-important relationships in your life. What are the characteristics of the people to whom you feel closest? Happy couples describe their partners as interested and responsive. Besides existing relationships, curious people act in certain ways with strangers that allow relationships to develop more easily. Research shows that curious people ask questions and take an interest in learning about partners, and intentionally try to keep interactions interesting and playful.

Here are a couple of things we know about social relationships. In a recent blog in Scientific American magazine, Ingrid Wickelgren writes: “People who are a part of a group are also far better equipped to conquer an internal foe – the threat of bad health.”

In a study published earlier this year on the health benefits of social relationships, researchers provided evidence that social ties and increased contact with family and friends are associated with a lower risk of death in young women with breast cancer. Another presented a similar conclusion with respect to surviving heart surgery. What’s more, a 2010 meta-analysis of 148 other studies showed that social connection doesn’t just help us survive health problems – the lack of it actually causes them.

Wickelgren goes on: “Many languages have expressions such as ‘hurt feelings’ that compare the pain of such social rejection to the pain of physical injury. We now know that those are more than just metaphors. There are two components to physical pain, an unpleasant emotional feeling and a feeling of sensory distress, associated with different structures in the brain. Social pain is also associated with a particular brain structure. This connection between physical and social pain reflects the tie between social connection and the physiological processes of the body.”

So the health message is clear – if you reach out socially, you’ll engage your curious self, minimize the pain of social isolation, and live more fully. As John Lennon wrote so poetically, “You may say I’m a dreamer, but I’m not the only one. I hope someday you’ll join us. And the world will live as one.”

What five goals would lead you to lasting happiness?

In her book, “Creating Your Best Life” (Sterling, 2011), Caroline Adams Miller describes research-tested happiness boosters and techniques for building selfefficacy. The book collects and integrates studies and research on relationships, passion, self-regulation, positive emotions, flow, strengths, exercise and values as they relate to creating an ideal life.

When I did this exercise, my goals were: 1. To savor (this means slowing down some, which is really hard for me to do).

2. To strengthen (in my world, that’s to physically strengthen, which I do daily).

3. To emphasize the positive (as in looking at the glass as half-full).

4. To develop my personal relationships (this means taking more time for people).

5. To be more mindful in the moment (this means being less distracted).

To accomplish these goals and others, it’s important to remember that goals not only need to be SMART (Specific, Measureable, Action-oriented, Realistic and Timed), they also have to be value-driven, intrinsic, enveloping and exciting. You should make your goals “approach” goals – not “avoidance” goals, recommends Miller.

Value-driven goals that are more compelling have a greater likelihood of being pursued, and goals that foster independence and empowerment will help you create ª a life filled with vitality and…happiness.

Sustaining Hope in the Face of Cancer October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a chance to raise awareness about the importance of screening for early detection and retaining hope if cancer is diagnosed

By Deborah J. Cornwall and Maxine Andrews

A

bout one in eight American women will get breast cancer at some point during her life.

After skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common kind of cancer in women. The good news?

Many women can survive breast cancer if it’s found and treated early. A mammogram, the screening test for breast cancer, can help find breast cancer early.

If breast cancer, or any type of cancer, has touched you, or someone you love, you are well aware that it challenges you in more ways than just physically.

One of the things that is most challenged when a cancer diagnosis is given is hope.

realistic the goals, the more likely they are to inspire hope, even if the patient is terminal.

HOPE – A CURIOUS THING

CULTIVATE HUMOR

Hope is about looking forward to something positive and refusing to give up. It’s about persisting in the face of adversity, even when the odds and the facts seem to be working against you. It’s about creating positive energy that can nourish both body and soul.

Having done interviews with 86 personal caregivers who cared for 107 patients with over 40 different cancers, and interacting with dozens of families affected by cancer, it became eminently clear that sustaining hope in the face of cancer is both critical and problematic. All of these caregivers agreed that you aren’t your cancer, and that looking beyond the cancer to envision a “new normal” was key to retaining hope. Among their top suggestions in keeping hope alive were to:

SET REALISTIC GOALS

Is the feasible objective to become cancer-free, prolong life despite cancer, or help relieve patient pain and anxiety as death approaches? The more

LIVE LIFE WHILE YOU HAVE IT, CREATING JOY EVERY DAY

No matter how sick they are, the person you’re caring for will always appreciate a surprise. Maybe it’s a bouquet of daffodils, the opportunity to snuggle with a favorite pet, looking through old photos, or eating chocolate-covered strawberries.

Creating pleasure for the person with cancer creates positive and hopeful memories for both of you.

Many caregivers found that humor was an important stress reliever, even toward the end of a patient’s life. When he knew he was dying, one cancer patient answered the question of how he was doing by saying he’d given up buying green bananas. It was black humor, but it lightened the mood. Less morbid humor can be generated by playing games, reminiscing about amusing stories or watching a funny television show or movie together.

KNOW WHAT YOU’RE DEALING WITH AND USE IT TO YOUR ADVANTAGE

For many patients, information was a source for hope. It might have been about the diagnosis, or treatment options, or a physician’s depth of expertise treating a particular type of cancer. A physician’s candor about the potential consequences of each option and the range of outcomes he’s achieved stimulated hope, even in the most serious of situations. One patient, whose options had

become very limited after two years of rigorous chemotherapy and radiation, found a transplant surgeon willing to do ground-breaking 20-hour three-team “ex vivo resection” surgery removing six abdominal organs so he could remove a deadly tumor that was wrapped around several of her blood vessels and vital organs. Once she knew what she was dealing with, her rigorous research created optimism.

MAKE DELIBERATE CHOICES WHEN ACCESSING INFORMATION Several patient/caregiver teams found that they each had a different appetite for data, and so one would become a data fiend while the other kept more distance and only accessed the broader data about the disease and its prognosis when specific information was needed. They preserved hope by being selective.

INTERPRET DATA CAUTIOUSLY

Several patient/caregiver teams decided that statistics about the broader patient population with a particular diagnosis weren’t necessarily relevant to them. This wasn’t denial; rather, it was recognition that every projection of aggregate survival rates includes a full range of outcomes, some more desirable than others. One patient and his wife explained, “The survival facts [the doctor] gave were tough, so we decided to ignore them because he didn’t say that was true in 100 percent of the cases. Whatever the low percentage is who live longer, we decided that we’d be in it. Now we’re at four years, so it’s working.”

October 2014 LIFEAFTER50.COM 73

FORESTALL LATER REGRETS

Almost every caregiver described trying to do everything possible to ensure they’d have no regrets, no matter how the course of treatment ended. That meant not only going through the normal routines of treatment, but also pressing for management of side effects such as pain and nausea to increase patient comfort and expressing love for the patient every day. Hope isn’t restricted to survival situations. One man, who had a 13-year battle with cancer, was joined by his wife in diligently seeking out clinical trials and breakthroughs in treatment. This gave them hope and options that kept him alive for 27 months after being told he had six weeks to live.

Today, his widow describes their experience as a victory, in spite of his death, and she’s been a passionate advocate for cancer research funding ever since. Decisions about when a patient will die, and where, are also part of creating hope for loved ones. As one patient’s wife said, “We had to be ready because we had to go on. There was a point where it’s all about the people who

live. It’s not about the person who dies. It’s about what will make it okay for the ones who live.”

Orchestrating the readiness of children for such an outcome is part of this planning.

LIFE WITHOUT HOPE IS NOT LIFE

The Russian author Fyodor Dostoevsky said, “To live without hope is to cease to live.” Hope feeds the courage to keep going during challenging and uncertain treatments. It’s what allows family cancer caregivers to carry on every day. It’s what allows people to undertake unthinkable treatments, and it’s what allows exhausted caregivers to heal in the aftermath.

Deborah J. Cornwall is an experienced advocate on behalf of cancer patients and their families.

She is the author of “Things I Wish I’d Known: Cancer Caregivers Speak Out,” a book based on interviews with 86 cancer caregivers and dozens of patients and survivors. For more information or to purchase the book, click on www.thingsiwishidknown.com. ª

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October 2014 LIFEAFTER50.COM 75

Dawn Wells

A Modern Day Messenger For Mary Ann Morals Story and Photos by David Laurell

O

f the bazillions of people who have roamed this Earth since the beginning of time, it has only been over the past 60 years that an infinitesimal few have created legendary characters that, through the medium of television, have infiltrated the culture and psyche of the world’s inhabitants.

Venture to the deepest, darkest and most primitive corners of the globe and you will still find those who will recognize the likes of Ralph Kramden, Lucy Ricardo, Archie Bunker, Arthur “Fonzi” Fonzarelli and Captain James T. Kirk.

Let’s be overly generous and say that, perhaps, there have been 100 or so of these iconic character creations that have secured their place in the pantheon of pop culture. Of that exclusive clique, a more-than-decent argument could be made that seven of them came from one show – “Gilligan’s Island.”

While the CBS sitcom was only in production for three seasons, from 1964 to 1967, ask just about anyone – whether they were born during the latter years of the Wilson Administration or the early ones of Obama’s – to name those seven stranded castaways and they will easily rattle them off (usually in song): “Gilligan, the Skipper too, the millionaire and his wife, the movie star, the Professor and Mary Ann.” Portrayed, respectively, by Bob Denver, Alan Hale, Jr., Jim Backus, Natalie Schafer, Tina Louise, Russell Johnson and Dawn Wells, those castaway characters, thanks to syndication, live on, although, sadly, the real life actors who gave them life, do not. With the passing of Johnson, earlier this year at the age of 89, there are now only two living cast

76 LIFEAFTER50.COM October 2014

members of the iconic show – Louise, who played the glamorous movie star Ginger Grant, and Wells, who gave life to Mary Ann Summers, the ingénue from a Kansas farm.

“I travel all over the world,” says Wells, who turns 76 this month. “And no matter where I go, they know ‘Gilligan’s Island.’ It’s just unbelievable. I was once in a part of the Solomon Islands where no white woman had even been. We had canoed up to a little village where these huts were built on stilts out on a coral reef, and the chief’s wife kept looking at me. Finally she said: ‘I know you.’ I was shocked.

Then she told me she had attended nursing school on the island of Honiara in 1979 and used to watch the show. So there I was in this primitive, remote island with no running water and yet someone knew ‘Gilligan’s Island.’ I have had this happen in Rwanda, in Beijing – all over the world.”

Wells, a self-proclaimed homebody who lives in Southern California’s San Fernando Valley and has just released her latest book, “What Would Mary Ann Do? A Guide To Life” (Taylor Trade Publishing, 2014), was born and raised in Reno, Nevada. After graduating from Reno High School, she attended Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri, where she majored in chemistry and then transferred to the University of Washington in Seattle, where she graduated in 1960 with a degree in theater arts and design. In 1959, Wells was crowned Miss Nevada and represented her state in the 1960 Miss America Pageant.

The Dawn of Dawn

The encouragement and prompting of a professor at the University of Washington coupled with the

exposure she received during her reign as Miss Nevada provided Wells with the push to see if she could establish an acting career.

“I went to Hollywood and figured I’d give myself a year to see what may happen,” Wells recalls. “If things didn’t work out, my plan was to pursue my original goal of going to medical school.”

Arriving in Tinseltown during the heyday of television, Wells says she was just a kid who had no idea what she was doing when she first set foot on Burbank’s legendary Warner Bros. Studios lot.

“I had an interview with Jack Warner,” she recalls.

“I remember being brought to his office where he was sitting behind his big desk. I was totally intimidated, but I’m a talker, so I just started talking and ended up being in with him for 40 minutes.”

Following her meeting with Warner, Wells’ agent called her to say she had just gotten off the phone with the studio head who revealed that he and the young actress had engaged in quite a conversation.

“We had discussed all sorts of things and current events, which I guess wasn’t the way the typical interview went between him and young actresses,” laughs Wells. “But I’ve always believed we’re more than just our talent. I’ve always drawn from that and taken it to heart. So even though he was this powerful studio head, I just talked with Jack Warner like I would with anyone and we connected in a way that was more than the ‘Look at me! Look at me!’ that I’m sure he got from a lot of the actresses he met with. What did I know? I was so naïve, I had no idea that it was a big deal that we had a conversation until my agent explained that Jack Warner didn’t have the highest regard for actors and that was not at all typical.”

Young Wells made such a good impression on Warner, she was brought into the studio’s fold and began making regular appearances in early Warner Bros. Television classics such as “77 Sunset Strip,” “Cheyenne,” “Maverick” and “Hawaiian Eye.”

Casting For Castaways

In late 1963, television producer Sherwood Schwartz was working on a new series about a small group of tourists who, while taking a three-hour boat tour, get caught in a violent storm and end up marooned on an unchartered desert island. The pilot for the show was shot in Hawaii, wrapping production on November 22, the day President John F. Kennedy was assassinated.

Somewhat different than the “Gilligan’s Island” everyone has come to know, the pilot did include Gilligan, the Skipper, and the Howells, but not the Professor, Ginger or Mary Ann. The original cast was rounded out with a high school teacher played by John Gabriel, a sexy secretary played by Kit Smythe, and a stereotypically “dumb blonde” played by Nancy McCarthy.

After testing the pilot, it was determined the latter three characters weren’t working with audiences and Schwartz decided to redefine and recast those roles as a professor, a glamorous movie star and a Kansas farm girl.

“When I got the call for that audition, all I knew was that the pilot had been shot with other actors and that they were looking to replace some of the characters,” Wells recalls. “For me, it was just another audition.”

Making her way to the 20th Century-Fox lot to meet with Schwartz, she impressed the producer in much

the same way she had done with Warner.

“Like I say, I’m a talker, so we had a nice conversation about the character of Mary Ann and, after hearing about her, I really felt I knew how she should look and how she would dress and wear her hair,” says Wells. “So they called me in to screen test at CBS Television City and when I got there, I found out there were about 300 people there to audition for Mary Ann and Ginger and the Professor. I remember seeing Raquel Welch come in and thought: ‘Well, that’s the end of me.’ I wasn’t nervous at all because, to me, it was just another run-of-the-mill audition, but they kept calling me back for more tests.”

Ultimately offered the role of Mary Ann, Wells joined the new cast that included Johnson as the Professor and Louise as the movie star. The revamped show resonated both with test audiences and CBS, who picked up the show for their 1964 season.

Filmed at the CBS Radford Studios in Studio City, “Gilligan’s Island” was shot on the same stage that would later be used for “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” and “Roseanne.” The show’s famous lagoon, also located on the lot, was designed so that it could be drained and double as a parking lot when it was not being used for filming.

“I was thrilled to get the role of Mary Ann, but I had no idea if the show would make it. None of us did,” says Wells. “When we were doing the series, the critics panned it and called it the most stupid thing they ever saw. So we weren’t sure what would happen.”

What did happen was what often happens – the professional critics hate a show that Americans

embrace. “Gilligan’s Island” went on to enjoy solid ratings throughout its three-year run and saw its seven characters become indelible icons of popular culture.

Recalling Her Castaway Castmates

Asked what first comes to mind when she thinks of her fellow castmates, Wells says Alan Hale was the kindest, warmest and most jovial human being she has ever known, while Bob Denver was a great intellect and gentle soul.

She bursts out in a hearty laugh when asked for her memories of Jim Backus. “He was cheap, cheap, cheap,” she snaps. “The biggest skinflint I’ve ever met. But he was funny and really knew his comedy.

He was generous in sharing his comedic intellect and understanding with Sherwood and the directors and with Natalie. There’s not a lot of actors who are willing to do that.”

As for her feelings about Natalie Schafer, Wells says she always felt like she was the daughter Schafer never had. “We were very close and I always admired her,” says Wells. “She had an incredible sense of style.”

Wells enjoyed a close relationship with Denver and Schafer until the end of their lives, as she did with Johnson. “Russell and I really connected,” says Wells. “He had the best sense of humor of anyone in the cast. He always kept me laughing. We had been close from the very start. I think that may have been because he and I had been lumped together as ‘the rest’ for the first year of the show. He really took care of me. There was never a romantic or sexual

October 2014 LIFEAFTER50.COM 77

attraction between us, but we really loved one another and always remained close friends.”

As for her thoughts on the actress who played the character hers was most associated with, Wells sighs when asked about Tina Louise.

“Tina and I never had a problem with one another,” she says matter-of-factly.

“But we never had anything in common – nothing! It was fairly well-known that she was not happy doing the show and I’m sure that became even worse for her because, as the years went by, Mary Ann always won out when it came to the ‘Ginger or Mary Ann’ question. I’m sure that has been awful for her. Tina was such a beauty. She was a real movie star who, before ‘Gilligan’s Island,’ had been in feature films and on Broadway. I was just a kid from Nevada and she was a New York star. Had we not been cast together, we would have never been the types who would have connected with one another. She was always very private and didn’t have the sort of sense of humor I had. The only connection we ever had was one I write about in my book. She had just gotten married and wanted to prepare a Thanksgiving dinner, which she had never done before.

So she asked me if I would teach her how to do it, which I did. I ran into her daughter [novelist, screenwriter and television writer/producer Caprice Crane] once and she told me her mother would tell that story every Thanksgiving – how I had her over to my house to teach her how to make the dinner. Honestly, I think she was a very shy person and I never got to know her well. But I never thought she was a b-i-t-c-h. I never saw her be anything other than a total professional.”

After The Isle

When CBS dropped “Gilligan’s Island” in 1967, Wells and her husband, talent agent Larry Rosen, divorced, and she went on to embark on a successful theater career. Over the years she has also appeared in numerous television and feature film roles, reprised her character of Mary Ann in various “Gilligan’s Island” reunion specials and movies, and done a one-woman show at the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas in the mid 1980s.

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Wells also wrote “Mary Ann’s Gilligan’s Island Cookbook” (Rutledge Hill Press, 1993), established the Wishing Wells Collections that made clothing for people with limited mobility, founded the Idaho Film and Television Institute and, to this day, continues to lend her support to the Denver Foundation, a charity chaired by Bob Denver’s widow, Dreama Denver, that enriches the lives of individuals with special needs.

Dawn Of Today

Having never had children or remarried, Wells today shares her primitive Africanand-South-Seas-island-art-decorated home with her “sleek and sexy” cat, Veronica, whom she named after the character from the “Archie” comics.

Having just released her latest book in September, Wells says that from the very beginning, her goal was to make the book a guide to help people of all ages deal with the complexities of today’s world.

“I don’t know how many people would have really been interested in reading about Dawn Wells’ life, so I never wanted to do a typical autobiography,” she explains pragmatically. “However, when I would think back on all the people I’ve met over the years – generation after generation of people – who watched ‘Gilligan’s Island’ and were impressed by the morals and values they saw in Mary Ann, that gave me an idea. I really think it is the character – Mary Ann – that people have always related to, not Dawn Wells. So that is why I wanted the book to be about how Mary Ann would deal with all types of situations that people of all ages deal with in today’s world.”

An inspirational, heartwarming and humorous tome that blends advice, anecdotal sidebars with cute-as-a-bug drawings, “Gilligan’s Island” memories and photographs from Wells’ private collection, the book offers twelve chapters on how Mary Ann would respond to today’s culture and challenges. Part-memoir and partetiquette guide that, at times, critics may say, leans a bit more Pollyanna than Mary Ann, Wells is unrepentant when it comes to espousing what she calls: “Mary Ann morals.”

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“I am certainly more sophisticated and worldly than Mary Ann,” says Wells. “I grew up in Nevada, with legalized gambling and prostitution. But I always had Mary Ann morals. There is, and always has been, a core of Mary Ann in me, and I think there is a message that Mary Ann has to give. I’m not preaching and presenting this as a goody-two-shoes guide to life that you have to follow. It is just giving people – young people – the option and understanding that they do have choices. It asks readers to think about values, about right and wrong. Young people today are living in a Kardashian world where teenagers think having $500 purses is the norm. It’s a book about how to keep your sanity and morality in today’s world.

How to incorporate the goodness from inside of you instead of being dictated by whatever is going on around you and what the Kardashians say is successful.”

Along with providing readers with insights as to how Mary Ann would handle growing up in today’s world, she also addresses how her character might handle aging. It is a philosophy that very much mirrors her own.

“I don’t know if a positive attitude comes naturally or you have to learn it or force it,” says Wells. “All I can say is that people who are not positive – the ones who complain about everything – seem to attract more to complain about. I think if you cultivate and feed into negativity, it grows around you and takes over your life. I look for joy and anything that is positive. I know that is not easy for people who have serious health issues and have dealt with devastating losses. And I am very grateful, because I know I’ve been blessed. But I just see aging as another stage of life. It can be, and in many cases is, a more difficult stage. I think, just as we had to discover who we were when we were kids, and when we first started school, and when we became teenagers, and then stepped out into the real world, we also have to find out who we are as an older person – what our significance is at this stage of our lives. I’m always looking forward to what’s next. I have a million things I would love to do, so the thought of sitting rocking in a chair never crosses my mind.”

To learn more about Dawn Wells, get autographed photos or to order her new ª book, click on www.dawnwells.com

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A PARKINSON’S PRIMER While a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease must be accompanied by information, understanding and support for the patient, it is equally important to provide those resources for family members, friends and care partners Special to Life After 50 • By Delle Willett

N

amed after British apothecary James Parkinson in the early 1800s, Parkinson’s disease is the second most-common neurological disease after Alzheimer’s. In Southern California, about 100,000 people have Parkinson’s; nationally about one million, and globally about six million. And yet, despite these staggering numbers, Parkinson’s is not a wellunderstood disease.

Most people with Parkinson’s start showing

WHAT IS PARKINSON’S?

Parkinson’s disease is a degenerative neurological condition that affects a person’s movements due to a lack of the chemical dopamine in the brain. A diagnosis can be overwhelming. It can mean a future of facing a condition that decreases the quality of life and affects multiple aspects of body and brain function. Additionally, the lack of dopamine in the brain (which helps control the mind’s reward and pleasure centers) can lead to depression, anxiety and severe mood swings. Parkinson’s can also be accompanied by sleep apnea or night terrors and/ or restless-leg syndrome. Many people experience stiffness and pain, especially in their neck, shoulders and lower back.

With all of this to deal with, it’s not surprising that anxiety and depression each affects approximately 40 to 50 percent of those who have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s, with 67 to 92 percent of these individuals experiencing both. And for many, the depression starts years before any movement symptoms show up.

MEDICINES AND THERAPIES

Jerry Henberger, executive director of Southern California’s Parkinson’s Association, says the gold standard for treatment for Parkinson’s is levodopa (L-Dopa) – an oral drug that increases dopamine levels, providing relief from the main symptoms of the condition, improving motor function and mobility, and enabling participation in everyday activities – dramatically enhancing the life of those suffering with the disease.

First tested by neuroscientist Oleh Hornykiewicz in 1961 and approved in 1967 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, levadopa is not the final answer. Levodopa therapy is generally effective throughout the course of the disease. However, as Parkinson’s progresses, it takes more levodopa to relieve symptoms and relief is often incomplete or inconsistent. It is also important to know that

symptoms between the age 55 and 65, although there are also early-onset cases – such as with actor Michael J. Fox – where a diagnosis can come as early as one’s 20s or 30s.

Parkinson’s seems to occur more commonly in men than women, based primarily on studies of death rates and prevalence. While scientists, scholars and drug companies around the world have yet to zero in on the cause, there are drugs and therapies to manage the symptoms. adverse side effects, such as involuntary writhing movements and body spasms (dyskinesias), are common with patients using the drug.

Working with their neurologist, patients can take other drugs as adjunct therapies, helping to offset these problems for a short time, but the continuing loss of dopaminergic neurons causes a relentless stream of physical, mental and emotional challenges.

These challenges were memorably depicted in “Awakenings,” a 1990 film based on a 1973 memoir

by British neurologist Oliver Sacks, portrayed (ironically, due to the revelation that he had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s) by the late Robin Williams, who, in 1969, discovered beneficial effects of the then-new drug, levodopa.

In addition to drug therapy, an option to be considered is deep-brain stimulation (DBS), which combines neurology, neurosurgery and electrical engineering. Similar to a pacemaker for heart problems, tiny electrodes are implanted in the patient’s brain and powered by a subcutaneous control device embedded near the collar bone to deliver a weak but constant electric current that reduces or eliminates some of the person’s symptoms.

While the use of DBS is promising, it is not an option for everybody and it doesn’t necessarily help with depression, anxiety, posture or instability issues that typically come with Parkinson’s.

MINDS AND MOTION HEALTH SERVICES

“Behaviors and mental processes are swayed by social-cultural influences such as the presence of others, cultural, societal and family expectations, and peer and other group influences. Exercise is a key therapy, as is maintaining a positive state of mind,” says Henberger.

With this in mind, the association developed and began its unique Minds and Motion Health Services program a year ago. Through this therapeutic

lifestyle program, Parkinson’s patients, their families and care partners, are helped to effectively address the symptoms.

The program, which focuses on state of mind, voice/swallowing, and movement challenges, is designed to support other medical services provided by the patient’s physician and is administered in collaboration with major medical groups and hospital systems throughout Southern California.

TREATING THE STATE OF MIND

Parkinson’s disease is a highly individualized condition and by its very nature is unpredictable, often creating stress and anxiety for the person diagnosed as well as their family and friends. For this reason, professional counseling and support should be considered by spouses, family members, friends and neighbors – anyone who is involved with the patient.

“It’s not always just coping with Parkinson’s that brings people to see a counselor,” says the association’s Dr. Arika Johnson, Psy.D. “As time goes by, people need help dealing with the secondary things that are happening as a result of having Parkinson’s. For example: they can’t work or drive any longer; they are having problems with memory, they can’t take care of a pet, or stay in their home any longer.”

And when patients take drugs for their moods, it can exacerbate the disease’s symptoms, which underscores why therapy becomes so important.

“Ideally, with counseling, a person can learn the skills to cope with the disease and feel better,

October 2014 LIFEAFTER50.COM 81

A NEW STUDY FOR PEOPLE WITH MILD TO MODERATE ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE

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Participants will receive the study drug or a placebo. During this study, if you taking Aricept or Namenda, you will continue to take it along with the study drug or placebo. Studies already done have shown that this investigational drug appears safe. It may work by protecting brain cells which would result in improved memory. But, this has not been proven yet. We are doing this study to find out if this is true.

The study will enroll 450 patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease at many research sites across the United States. Total participation time is about 14 months, which includes screening, about one year of study treatment, and follow up to check safety.

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decreasing the need for psychotropic medication, improving his quality of life and slowing the progression over time,” explains Johnson.

Throughout the counseling sessions, the person’s progress is tracked for progress and trends. “Our body is so complex, yet we’ve found that by treating symptoms and carefully tracking a patient’s progress over time, we can help people live a stronger, healthier, happier life; and early indications are that this network of programs may actually show that the progression of the disease is slowed,” says Henberger.

About 40 to 50 percent of people with Parkinson’s will experience dementia as the disease progresses. To help determine the level of dementia and possible complications of memory loss, the association also offers confidential neuropsychic evaluations. These evaluations are designed to help family members with providing optional and optimum care for their loved ones.

Counselors are also qualified to help a patient decide if he or she is a good candidate for DBS, which requires testing cognitive memory, attention span, overall awareness, and general health.

Counseling services are available through the Parkinson’s Association in its offices in Santa Monica, San Diego, La Jolla and Chula Vista and will soon be available in Orange County. The association has insurance arrangements with Medi-Cal, Medicare and most major insurance programs.

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In addition to individual voice-therapy for improving voice and swallowing issues caused by Parkinson’s, a group voice-therapy program called Tremble Clefs is available in Southern California. Speech therapist Karen Hesley developed the program in 1994 specifically for people with Parkinson’s.

“Singing has natural therapeutic value for the Parkinson’s voice,” says Hesley. “Symptoms such as reduced voice volume and slurred articulation are addressed. There are also social and emotional benefits such as engaging in a communal effort, camaraderie, companionship, creativity and the joy of making music together.”

Tremble Clef participants experience the power of performance when they share their music with community groups. “We feel fortunate to be able to educate the public by demonstrating the abilities, talents and positive energy of Parkinson’s people,” adds Hesley.

With groups in San Diego, North San Diego County, South and North Orange County, Tremble Clefs is free and open to all Parkinson’s patients, their care partners and family members.

Participants learn speech therapy and music therapy techniques to improve posture, breathing and vocalizing, which lead to stronger voices. Movement-tomusic enhances balance and coordination by providing the critical ingredient of rhythm. No previous singing experience is required; just a willingness to participate and have fun at one’s own ability and comfort level.

The association has also recently announced it will be starting a Tremble Clefs program in Los Angeles, headed up by Sheldon Reynolds, the retired lead guitarist and vocalist for the group Earth, Wind and Fire, who has himself been diagnosed with Parkinson’s.

mAnAgIng movement dISorderS

The most highly recommended activity for people with Parkinson’s is exercise, which helps alleviate the symptoms of the disease as well as the person’s moods through the release of endorphins, which are known to decrease feelings of pain, reduce the negative effects of stress, and lead to feelings of well-being.

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Therapies for multiple expressions of movement disorders are available through the association’s network of physical and occupational therapists, and various qualified partners who help people with balance, strength and endurance through exercise and physical activities such as Tai Chi, yoga, Zumba and boxing.

Parkinson’s patients are encouraged to be active and have a regular regimen of activities such as walking, swimming, dancing and bike riding – all proven to be valuable exercises.

SENIORS BEWARE

Support tHrougH groupS

Support groups bring together those in similar circumstances, offering an opportunity to gain strength and learn from each other’s experiences and challenges. At meetings held once or twice a month, programs vary and include guest speakers, discussions, potluck dinners and – since laughing is excellent therapy – just plain fun.

A list of Parkinson’s disease support groups, meeting times and locations can be found on the association’s website www.parkinsonsassociation.org.

An InvItAtIon From tHe dIrector

“We believe that the body has remarkable regenerative capabilities, and with the support of our programs, people can better handle the biological and psychological symptoms to slow the progression of the disease,” says Henberger. “We hope that Life After 50 readers will reach out to us if they are in need of our services.”

For more information on Parkinson’s disease, the Tremble Clefs and other services, contact the Parkinson’s Association at (877) 737-7576 or click on www.parkinsonsassociation.org.

Author Delle Willetts is a Southern California-based journalist who wishes to express deep gratitude to her sister, Donne Willett, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s 13 years ago, for her help in researching and writing this article.

“Donne gave me videos to watch and papers to read, and pointed out every place in the article that needed more clarification and fact-checking,” says Delle. “I, along with our younger sister, Denny, am happy to be Donne’s care partner. ª

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ronald a. marron, attorney at law October 2014 LIFEAFTER50.COM 83

Gracepoint – New Series, Fox –

Premieres Thursday October 2 at 9 p.m.

This American remake of the British hit series “Broadchurch” retains the dark storyline about a murder investigation of a young boy that rocks a small seaside town, but shifts the locale to California. David Tennant reprises his lead role as a high-ranking police official who arrives in town with a troubled past, though this time he also comes with an American accent. Anna Gunn, Jacki Weaver, Nick Nolte, Michael Peña, and Kevin Rankin also star in the 10-part series, which promises to have a different ending than the original.

Mulaney – New series, Fox –

The Best In October Television Viewing

Premieres Sunday October 5 at 9:30 p.m.

This Lorne Michaels-produced sitcom wants to be the next “Seinfeld” – at least Fox is already touting it as that. The semi-autobiographical, multicamera comedy (taped before a live studio audience) is a vehicle for stand-up comedian John Mulaney (a former “Saturday Night Live” writer), who plays a young aspiring comedian trying to take his career to the next level. Martin Short, Nasim Pedrad, Elliott Gould, Seaton Smith, and Zack Pearlman also star, while Penny Marshall and Lorraine Bracco will guest star.

By Sandi Berg

Tuned In To What’s On

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Let’s Get OUt A Preview of Upcoming Events for October/November By Claire Yezbak Fadden

eNteRtAINMeNt WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 15 BRIGHT STAR Based on an original story by Steve Martin, this musical tells a beguiling tale that unfolds in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina between 1923 and 1945. Billy Cane, a young soldier just home from World War II, meets Alice Murphy, the brilliant editor of a southern literary journal. Together they discover a powerful secret that alters their lives. Old Globe Theatre, Donald and Darlene Shiley Stage, Conrad Prebys Theatre Center, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park, San Diego.

Through Nov. 2. $29-plus. (619) 234-5623. theoldglobe.org.

DINNER WITH MARLENE San Diego playwright Anne-Charlotte Harvey imagines a magical dinner in Paris with Marlene Dietrich and an intriguing party of artists, writers and socialites just before the outbreak of World War II. Lamb’s Players Theatre, 1142 Orange Ave., Coronado. $22plus. Tues.-Sun through Nov. 16. (619) 4376000. lambsplayers.org.

October/November 2014

Community Center, 245 E. Bonita Ave., San Dimas. $7. (909) 394-6290.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17 SILVERADO DAYS The celebration for the 58th year of this festival includes food, game booths, arts and crafts, carnival rides. Compete in the World Amateur Arm Wrestling Championship, amateur horseshoe contest, pie-eating contest, hog calling, baby contest, dog show and a chili cook-off. William Peak Park, 7225 El Dorado Dr., Buena Park Also Oct. 18-19. silveradodays.com.

ZEALOT Mecca, Saudi Arabia. The British consul pours tea for the American undersecretary of state, avoiding her questions—with answers to ones she hasn’t even asked. This is diplomacy at work. In the street below, a group of Saudi women sets in motion a carefully planned protest and the results are devastating enough to ignite a battle of wills and wits—now that a life hangs in the balance. South Coast Repertory, Segerstrom Stage, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. Dates vary through Nov. 16. $22-plus. (714) 708-5555. scr.org.

BIG HORSE CORN MAZE AND HARVEST FESTIVAL Held at a family-owned farm, this annual eventcovers 11 acres, and boasts Southern California’s largest, authentic corn maze.

Experience the challenges of the sevenfoot-tall-cornstalk, multi-path puzzle plus hay-wagon rides and pig races. This year’s corn maze design honors those who have served our country. Big Horse Feed and Mercantile, 33320 Temecula Pkwy, Temecula.

Through Oct. 31. $9. (951) 389-4621. bighorsecornmaze.com.

HARVEST FESTIVAL This year’s highlights include musical performances, gourmet food sampling, live entertainment and a Kidzone. Some 300 artists and craftspeople showcase unique handmade works, including Halloween and Christmas decor, handmade wearable art, garden decorations, unique holiday gifts, jewelry and pottery. Del Mar Fairgrounds, 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar. Also Oct. 18-19. $7-$9. (800) 346-1212. harvestfestival.com.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18

OKLAHOMA! This Rogers and Hammerstein classic tells the story of cowboy Curly McLain and his romance with farm girl Laurey Williams.

Features songs “Oh, What A Beautiful Morning,” “Surrey With the Fringe On Top” and “I Can’t Say No.” Welk Resorts Theatre, 8860 Lawrence Welk Dr., Escondido. Dates vary through Nov. 16. $45-$75. (888) 802-7469. welktheatre.com.

WIN, PLACE OR DIE . . .

Interactive mystery comedy dinner theater set at the Thoroughbred Club at Upson Downs Race Track. Everyone who’s anyone is here, including movie stars, a gossip columnist, a politician, a debt-ridden track owner and a jockey who may be in for the ride of his life.

Mystery Cafe Dinner Theater, Imperial House Restaurant, 505 Kalmia St., San Diego. $60.

Fri.-Sat. through Nov. 1. (619) 466-2200. mysterycafe.net.

THE ROYALE When a crooked boxing promoter hatches a plan for “the fight of the century,” a fighter just might land a place in the ring with the reigning heavyweight champion. Loosely based on real events, Marco Ramirez’s new play brings to life the sights and sounds of the early 20th century boxing circuit, and the ultimate fight for a place in history. The Old Globe, Sheryl and Harvey White Theatre, Conrad Prebys Theatre Center, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park, San Diego. $29-plus. Through Nov. 2. (619) 234-5623. theoldglobe.org.

BRICK-OR-TREAT This not-too-spooky Halloween celebration features nighttime trick-or-treating on one of two Brick-or-Treat Trails, festive music, and entertainment, interaction with the Boo Crew, a Halloween-themed musical and a dance party. New this year, a fun “Ghost Cruise.”

Kids can help build a giant Lego vampire model. Legoland California, One Legoland Dr., Carlsbad. Saturdays through Oct. 25. Prices vary. $68-$78. (760) 918-5346. legoland.com.

MAGICAL HALLOWEEN Dinner, entertainment and raffles. San Dimas

San Diego/Orange County/Inland Empire

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 19 INTIMATE CLASSICS Featuring Sirena Huang, Paul Galbraith, Jeffrey

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16

THE YEAR OF MAGICAL THINKING

Based on Joan Didion’s memoir, this remarkable story of loss, journey and the ultimate triumph of the human spirit is a tribute to an extraordinary marriage and a love letter to Didion’s daughter. Starring stage and screen actor Linda Purl and directed by Jenny Sullivan. Laguna Playhouse, Moulton Theatre Main Stage, 606 Laguna Canyon Rd., Laguna Beach. Through Nov. 2. 19. $36-$66. (949) 497-2787. lagunaplayhouse.com.

Siegel, Jiayan Sun and Han Bin Yoon, the singular series focuses on virtuosos of various classical instruments including the violin, guitar, piano, and cello. California Center for the Arts, Escondido @ The Center Theater, 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido. Prices vary.

Sundays through May 3. (800) 988-4253. artcenter.org.

CHAMPAGNE JAZZ Featuring David Sanborn. Thornton Winery, 32575 Rancho California Rd., Temecula. $85. (951) 699-0099. thorntonwine.com/ champagne-jazz-series.

CLASSICS AT THE MERC Chamber performances by the region’s best professional musicians. Old Town Temecula

Community Theater, The Merc, 42051 Main St., Temecula. Sundays. $12. (866) 653-8696. temeculatheater.org.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 21 JERSEY BOYS The story of how four blue-collar kids became one of the greatest successes in pop music history. Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Famers The Four Seasons: Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito and Nick Massi, wrote their own songs, invented their own sounds and sold 175 million records worldwide – all before they were 30. San Diego Civic Theatre, Third and B St., 1100 Third Ave., downtown San Diego.

Through Oct. 26. Prices vary. (619) 570-1100. broadwaysd.com.

October 2014 LIFEAFTER50.COM 85

CALeNDAR

October/November 2014 San Diego/Orange County/Inland Empire It’s hard to find an artist who has entirely redefined an instrument by his early 30s. But Jake Shimabukuro has already accomplished this feat in just over a decade of playing and recording music on the ukulele.California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido. Prices vary. (800) 988-4253. artcenter.org.

NOVEMBER SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1 HARVEST CELEBRATION This self-guided wine country tasting adventure celebrates the culmination of the Temecula Valley grape-harvest and the promise of the 2012 vintages. Enjoy food pairings with barrel- and tank-samplings of wines not yet available to the public. Visit the 35 member wineries for two fun-filled days of wine and food sampling. Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association, 34567 Rancho California Rd., Temecula. Multiple check-in locations. Also Nov. 2. Prices vary. (800) 8019463. temeculawines.org.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 2 CLASSICS AT THE MERC Chamber performances by the region’s best professional musicians. Old Town Temecula Community Theater, The Merc, 42051 Main St., Temecula. Sundays. $12. (866) 653-8696. temeculatheater.org.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 11

PIPPIN

With a beloved score by Tony nominee Stephen Schwartz, this musical tells the story of a young prince on a death-defying journey to find meaning in his existence. Will he choose a happy but simple life? Or will he risk everything for a singular flash of glory. This captivating new production features sizzling choreography in the style of Bob Fosse and breathtaking acrobatics by Les 7 Doigts de la Main. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Segerstrom Hall, 600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa. Through Nov. 23. $29-plus. (714) 556-2787. scfta.org.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 23 JAZZ AT THE MERC Old Town Temecula Community Theater, The Merc, 42051 Main St., Temecula. $15. (866) 653-8696. temeculatheater.org.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24 ICARO In a magical tale about man’s engrained desire to escape, Icaro (Daniele Finzi Pasca) is a clown who struggles against destiny. Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Dr., Irvine.

Through Oct. 26. $32-$40. (949) 854-4646. thebarclay.org.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25 THE HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES The world-renowned sleuth returns in a new dramatic telling of the most famous and admired detective story ever written.

The supremely rational Sherlock Holmes is thrust into an atmosphere of lonely moors, ancient secrets, deadly threats, and ghostly apparitions. Can Sherlock find the science behind the “supernatural” menace? LifeHouse Theater, 1135 N. Church St., Redlands.

Weekends through Nov. 16. $14-$18. (909) 335-3037 ext. 21. lifehousetheater.com.

86 LIFEAFTER50.COM October 2014

MUSIC OF LIGHT The Center Chorale presents works centered on the theme of light, in a shimmering blend of chorus and hand bells. California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido. Prices vary. (800) 988-4253. artcenter.org.

CHARLIE MUSSELWHITE Mississippi born Musselwhite is one of the most revered blues harmonica players in the world and a mainstay on the Blues Festival circuit. His list of collaborators is a virtual who’s who of blues and rock greats including Howlin’ Wolf, Muddy Waters, Big Joe Williams, Little Walter, Sonny Boy Williamson, John Lee Hooker, Tom Waits, Eddie Vedder and Ben Harper. Poway Center for the Performing Arts Foundation, 15498 Espola Rd., Poway. $33$49. (858) 748-0505. powayarts.org.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 26 THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” is the only stage collaboration from two masters of the American musical theatre, composer Alan Menken and lyricist Stephen Schwartz. In this brand new production, a lush, emotionally rich score highlights the music’s orchestral power and choral beauty in an intimate retelling of the famous love story. La Jolla Playhouse,

UCSD Campus, Wiess Theatre, 2910 La Jolla Village Dr., La Jolla. $87-$99. Through Dec. 7.

(858) 550-1010. lajollaplayhouse.org.

LIVE JAZZ ON THE PATIO Jimmy and Enrique. Bernardo Winery, Tasting Room Patio, 13330 Paseo Del Verano Norte, San Diego. Free. bernardowinery.com.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 28 HAGEN QUARTET Lukas Hagen and Rainer Schmidt, violins; Veronika Hagen, viola and Clemens Hagen, cello. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Segerstrom Hall, 600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa. Through Nov. 23. $29-plus. (714) 5562787. scfta.org.

ART OF ÉLAN: ARIA San Diego soprano Priti Gandhi in Respighi’s Il Tramonto. The program also features Argentinean composer Heitor VillaLobos, Baroque master Henry Purcell and Italian opera icon Giacomo Puccini’s lush Chrysanthemums quartet. San Diego Museum of Art, 1450 El Prado, Balboa Park, San Diego. $20-$25. (619)232-7931. sdmart.org.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31 JAKE SHIMABUKURO

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 6 SAN DIEGO ASIAN FILM FESTIVAL This year the festival features 100 movies from more than 20 countries. This is one of the largest exhibitions of Asian international and Asian American cinema in North America.

Along with narrative features, it showcases documentaries, short films, animation and films by local high school students. Films shown at four locations. Through Nov. 15.

Ticket prices vary. sdaff.org.

MICHAEL ANDREW SINGS SINATRA An award-winning singer in the style and tradition of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Bobby Darin and Sammy Davis, Jr., Michael Andrew has been a featured guest artist with orchestras across America. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa. $39-plus. (714) 556-2787. scfta.org.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 7 THANKSGIVING DINNER Dinner, entertainment and raffles. San Dimas Community Center, 245 E. Bonita Ave., San Dimas. $7. (909) 394-6290.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8 JOHNNY MATHIS Since his first two hits, “Wonderful, Wonderful” and “Chances Are” hit the top of the charts in 1956, Johnny Mathis has continued to entertain legions of fans with his beautiful style and way around a song. Center for the Arts,

October/November 2014 San Diego/Orange County/Inland Empire Segerstrom Hall, 600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa. $59-plus. (714) 556-2787. scfta.org.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 9 LIVE JAZZ ON THE PATIO Chini and Camberos. Bernardo Winery, Tasting Room Patio, 13330 Paseo Del Verano Norte, San Diego. Free. bernardowinery.com.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 13 LIVE! AT THE MUSEUM The Upside. Laguna Beach Live, The Ranch at Laguna Beach, 31106 S. Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach. $7. (949) 715-9713. lagunabeachlive.org.

JAZZ AT THE MERC Old Town Temecula Community Theater, The Merc, 42051 Main St., Temecula. $15. (866) 653-8696. temeculatheater.org.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14 ABSURD PERSON SINGULAR Meet three couples in their kitchens on Christmas Eve of three successive years. The first couple is the up-and-coming Hopcrofts in their new, gadget-filled kitchen anxiously giving a party for their bank manager and his wife and an architect neighbor. The following Christmas Eve finds the holiday event in the untidy flat of the architect and his wife. Then there is the large Victorian style kitchen of the bank manager and his wife. Outwardly the three are quite different.

What they have in common are their behindthe-scenes disasters. Riverside Community Players, 4026 14th St., Riverside. Weekends through Nov. 30. $15-$18. (951) 686-4030. riversidecommunityplayers.org.

eXHIBItIONs SCENIC VIEW AHEAD The Westways Cover Art Program, 1928-1981.

One of the largest exhibitions of works from the member magazine of the Automobile Club of Southern California. The cover art program began in 1928, with the Auto Club commissioning paintings from major artists working in Southern California for the cover of each issue of its member magazine. With 55 artworks on view, the exhibition traces prominent styles of art through most of the 20th century, such as California scene painting, pop art, and assemblage art. The Irvine Museum, 18881 Von Karman Ave., Ground Floor, Irvine. Tues-Sat. through Sept.

2015. (949) 476-2565. irvinemuseum.org.

ELIZABETH TURK: SENTIENT FORMS In a multi-media installation, Turk continues her exploration of the recurring themes of time, matter and space. The exhibition features marble sculptures from her “Cage and Collars” series, the fragility and fluidity of which are a stark contrast to the heavy materials from which they are made. It also includes X-ray mandala LED illuminated prints, an installation of scholar stones, and a “cabinet of curiosities” consisting of objects and drawings that have played a part in the artist’s imaginative and working processes.

Laguna Art Museum, Main Level Gallery, 307

CALeNDAR

Cliff Dr., Laguna Beach. Through Jan. 25.

Closed Wednesdays. $5-$7. (949) 494-8971. lagunaartmuseum.org.

THE AVANT-GARDE COLLECTION In the 1960s it was cutting-edge to employ imagery from popular culture, and by the 1970s performance and installation were the bywords of innovation. In the 1980s new media and appropriation appeared on everybody’s radar for the first time, while the 1990s, in retrospect, were all about identity politics and post-colonialism. Due to the pluralist tendencies of the 21st century that make the notion of avant-garde seem quaint, the challenge for artists to produce work that conceals the influence of generations past is more demanding than ever. Orange County Museum of Art, 850 San Clemente Dr., Newport Beach. Through Jan. 4. $10-$12.

(949) 759-1122. ocma.net.

NEW VISIONS Art and Invention in the 19th Century.

Photography captured people, places and architecture of the 19th century.

This exhibition displays how pioneering photographers brought the world to people with images. The Grand Tour of Europe, Egypt and the Holy Lands, and the American West are presented in the selection that includes featured artists: James Anderson, Eadweard Muybridge, Samuel Bourne, Francis Frith and William Henry Jackson. Museum of Photographic Arts, Balboa Park, 1649 El Prado, San Diego. Through Feb. 8. $7-$8. (619) 2387559. mopa.org.

COLORES DE LA MUERTE: A DAY OF THE DEAD FESTIVAL This exhibition explores the rich history of Mexico, featuring 15 large sculptures from the 55-piece, Tren de la Historia on loan from El Museo de Arte Popular in Mexico City. The sculptures chronicles the turning points of the Mexican Revolution from uprisings and rebellions as early as 1810 to the war for independence reaching its resolution in 1920.

Designers from the University of Tijuana CUT will construct a monumental altar that honors Mexican author Octavio Paz, 100 years after his birth. California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido.

Through Nov. 9. (800) 988-4253. artcenter.org.

LITA ALBUQUERQUE: PARTICLE HORIZON The exhibition highlights Pigment Figure No. 1, consisting of a human figure in a horizontal position and is made of plaster and covered in blue pigment. The figure lies in a state of suspended reality, at one time referencing the past self, at another alluding to the future, the never-ending now. The sculpture and the earth around it give form and shape to the matter that surrounds and composes the everyday.

Laguna Art Museum, Segerstrom Gallery, 307 Cliff Dr., Laguna Beach. Through Jan. 25.

Closed Wednesdays. $5-$7. (949) 494-8971. lagunaartmuseum.org.

A GRAND ADVENTURE: AMERICAN ART OF THE WEST The exhibit brings together 40 significant classic and traditional artworks from private collections. The artworks span nearly 100

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 12

WICKED

Based on the best-selling 1995 novel by Gregory Maguire, this musical has won more than 50 major awards. Long before that girl from Kansas arrives in Munchkinland, two girls meet in the Land of Oz. The one born with emerald green skin is smart, fiery and misunderstood. The other is beautiful, ambitious and very popular. How these two friends grow to become the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good makes for a delightfully entertaining performance. San Diego Civic Theatre, Third and B St., 1100 Third Ave., downtown San Diego. Through Dec. 7. Prices vary. (619) 570-1100. broadwaysd.com.

years dating from the latter half of the 19th century through the early decades of the 20th century. Landscape and genre paintings of the American west by Bierstadt, Moran, Russell, Remington and Henry F. Farney are featured with artworks from the Taos Society of Artists, Santa Fe Art Colony, and California Impressionists including E.I. Couse, Walter Ufer, Edgar Payne, Carl Oscar Borg, Guy Rose, Granville Redmond, and Maynard Dixon among others. Palm Springs Art Museum, Annenberg Wing, 101 Museum Dr., Palm Springs. Through Jan. 4. $4-$5. (760) 3224800. psmuseum.org.

THE DISCOVERY OF KING TUT The discovery of King Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922 is considered the most famous discovery in the history of archaeology, and in modern times, the context of its discovery has been lost. The exhibit allows visitors to experience a rush of excitement as they step into a moment only ever witnessed by Howard Carter, Lord Carnarvon and a handful of others. Through stunning and scientifically produced replicas, the exhibition invites visitors to enjoy the magnificent splendor of these priceless Egyptian treasures. San Diego Natural History

Museum, 1788 El Prado, Balboa Park, San Diego. 15-$27. Through April 26. (619) 2323821. sdnhm.org.

SPITTING IN THE WIND “Art From the End of the Line” by Richard Allen Morris, John Baldessari, Bob Matheny and Russell Baldwin. The exhibition is focused on, but not limited to, the late 1950s and the 1960s, when these young artists frequently saw each other’s work and participated in the same exhibitions. Although the four friends produced some of the most vigorous, humorous and unconventional art in the region, their efforts were often stymied by San Diego’s rather limited capacity to appreciate them. Oceanside Museum of Art, Bob and Estelle Gleason Gallery, 704 Pier View Way, Oceanside. Through November 2. $5-$8. (760) 435-3720. oma-online.org.

Get the Word Out. E-mail your announcements to Claire Fadden, cfadden@lifeafter50.com. Include a brief description, location, date, time, cost, phone and website. Submission does not guarantee publication. Deadline for the November/December Calendar is October 1.

October 2014 LIFEAFTER50.COM 87

Traveling Around…The Corner…And The World

You Must Spend Christmas Time In The City New York City offers holiday magic that is unsurpassed and unforgettable

By Max Andrews • Photos courtesy of MSG Entertainment

N

o matter what the season, a visit to New York City will always provide you with an exciting, entertaining and memorable time of historical, cultural and gastronomical delights, but the Big Apple takes on a unique aura during November and December that can only be described as magical. One can roam the globe during the holiday season and never experience anything that even comes close to matching the majestic vibrancy of Christmastime in New York.

In a world that offers uncountable opportunities – both man-made and natural – for the curious and excitement-seeking traveler, there are some things that simply must be experienced, and spending a Christmas in Gotham is one of them. There are so many things to see and do during the holiday season – endless opportunities that will make you feel as though you have been sucked into one of those classic Christmas films you’ve been watching since you were a kid.

The sparkling decorations and lights on midtown buildings, hotels, department stores and boutiques, the twirling ice skaters, heralding angels and towering Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center, and the glittering window displays along Fifth Avenue serve as a reallive Candy Cane Lane that could capture the wide-eyed wonder and infuse the warmth of goodwill toward men even in old Scrooge himself.

While there are few things as magically surreal as having lunch at Tavern on the Green in a snow-covered Central Park, warming yourself with some hot cocoa after a skating session under the watchful eyes of Prometheus in Rockefeller Center, or sipping a lateevening toddy in some tucked-away tavern in Tribeca or Greenwich Village as a sultry chanteuse transforms traditional carols into bluesy ballads, let’s be honest – there is one thing you simply must do if you are in New York in December – attend the Radio City Christmas Spectacular.

As unique today as it was during its debut performance in 1932, the show features over 140 performers, lavish sets, costumes and an original musical score. The revue, which stars the worldfamous Rockettes, combines singing, dancing and 88 LIFEAFTER50.COM October 2014

humor in spectacular stage settings. From the 36 Rockettes and their 72 legs moving in perfect synchronization, to the parade of the wooden soldiers, a high-tech dazzling snow scene, and an unforgettable living Nativity with live camels, sheep and donkeys, it is a show that simply has to be seen to be believed.

“Each holiday season, the Radio City Christmas Spectacular brings families, friends and loved ones together like nothing else, and this year, we are proud to present the most immersive experience yet,” said Don Simpson, executive vice president of productions for MSG Entertainment. “The 2014 production will combine traditional favorites and dynamic new numbers, including the return of a beloved classic that features the Rockettes as rag dolls.

We are dedicated to providing our fans with a holiday tradition they can look forward to, beginning with the moment they arrive at Radio City.”

Have A Rockette Moment

After you have arrived at the legendary theater and marveled at the Swarovski Christmas tree decorated with over 10,000 crystals and suspended above Radio City Music Hall’s Grand Foyer, be sure to make your way up to the First Mezzanine and have your photo taken with one of the Rockettes. The lines do get long, so arrive early.

Or Make It A VIP Rockette Experience

You can also arrange to take a dance class with members of the Rockettes who will teach you choreography from the show. This VIP experience, with very limited availability, also includes a mock audition, a question and answer session, a photo op and more. The price for this once-ina-lifetime experience, which also includes a ticket to the show and the

Radio City Stage Door Tour is $225 and can be booked through www.broadwaydancecenter.com. What better Christmas present could you give to yourself than the life-long memory of having danced with a real Rockette?

Go Behind The Scenes

The Radio City Stage Door Tour offers an insider’s look at Radio City Music Hall. On this guided tour, you’ll be shown Art Deco masterpieces, learn the secrets of how the Christmas Spectacular comes together, and meet a Rockette. Tours run daily and are $24 for adults and $18 for those over 62.

If spending the holidays in New York sounds good to you, the time to act is right now. The 2014 Radio City Christmas Spectacular will run from November 7 through December 31 and tickets are available now at www.Ticketmaster.com or by calling (866) 858-0007. For more information on the show, the VIP Rockette Experience or tour, click on www. ª radiocitychristmas.com.

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That’s why we are known as Alaska’s Playground. Order your free guide at www.kenaipeninsula.org

KODIAK ISLAND CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU Kodiak, Alaska’s Emerald Isle, offers miles of scenic coastline for beachcombing in quiet solitude while eagles soar overhead. Worldclass fishing, bear viewing, whale watching, birding, and unspoiled the Alaska Railroad’s adventure packages and day trips include the HAINES is like no other destination.

With fascinating history, scenery make Kodiak the best place to experience pure Alaska. finest accommodations and sightseeing tours along the rail belt. intriguing culture, breathtaking scenery and adventure to last a Museums, picturesque harbors, shopping, restaurants serving the (800) 544-0552 or www.AlaskaRailroad.com lifetime, there’s no question that your time spent in Haines will be freshest seafood and kind hospitality round out your experience in “the real Alaska.� Kodiak - the only way to see Alaska. (800) 789CLIPPERSHIP MOTORHOMES, INC. was founded in 1982 and has enjoyed and remembered for years to come. Journey on up the Inside Passage and discover your Haines adventure!

(800) 458-3579 4782 or www.Kodiak.org remained a family owned and operated business ever since. Our goal or www.Haines.ak.us RUBY RANGE ADVENTURES THE ALASKA RAILROAD JUNEAU CONVENTION & The stunning northern landscapes VISITORS BUREAU - A quick of Canada’s Yukon and Alaska two hour flight north from await your arrival, and Ruby The Adventure Capital of Alaska Seattle on Alaska Airlines puts Range Adventure has the guides you in the midst of glacierand knowledge to make your covered coastal mountains and journey an experience of a lush green rainforest. Along lifetime. Combining close-knit with jaw-dropping scenery, groups on a wide range of Juneau’s a humpback whale guided tours, we can whisk Explore haven, a salmon fishing you away in a bus or van along the Road

Haines

ENJOY GETTING THERE as much as being there.

Less Traveled

Ask About Early Booking Savings!

See the REAL Alaska Up-Close on a Small Ship Cruise or Private Yacht Charter

CORDOVA

CLIPPERSHIP

ut our Ask abDoiscount 10% e After 50 for Lifeaders!

R

Š Glenn Aronwits

The Alaska Railroad connects many of Alaska’s most popular destinations. Browse schedules, day trips and vacation packages at AlaskaRailroad.com.

800.544.0552

JUNEAU ALASKA

Order Your Free Juneau Guide

Juneau Convention & Visitors Bureau www.traveljuneau.com/50 1-888-587-2201

CORDOVA Alaska’s Hidden Treasure

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

AWARDED BY THE BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU OF ALASKA

SEWARD • WHITTIER • ANCHORAGE • TALKEETNA • DENALI • FAIRBANKS

GLACIERS WILDLIFE WILDERNESS

{ ALASKA’S HIDDEN TREASURE }

RHOME RENTAL O T S MO

MAKE RESERVATIONS EARLY!

1-800-421-3456

5401 Old Seward Highway, Anchorage, AK 99518

email: info@clippershiprv.com

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Contact us for a Free Vacation Planner 800-458-3579 | 907-766-2234 www.haines.ak.us | hcvb@haines.ak.us

www.clippershiprv.com

Get off the beaten path.

Cordova, Alaska Get off the beaten path.

Cordova, Alaska 907.424.7260 For more information call 907-424-7260 or visit www.cordovachamber.com www.cordovachamber.com

(800) 789-4782 www.Kodiak.org

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historic highways to gold rush towns of the Yukon and Alaska or guide rooms are also available. Enjoy the upcoming coming holidays at the Beach House Inn. Ask about our Life After 50 special. (707) 961you down a river by canoe deep into the untamed wilderness. Our 1700 or www.beachinn.com specialty is escorted camping and trekking tours, backpacking and hiking vacations. (867) 667-2209 or www.RubyRange.com THE BEACHCOMBER MOTEL ON THE BEACH is nestled on the SEWARD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE - Known as the ‘Gateway to dramatic Mendocino Coast with direct access to the beach and the Kenai Fjords National Park’ Seward is a picturesque town located 126 ten-mile Coastal Trail. Steps from the Pacific Ocean, guests enjoy miles south of Anchorage. Discover our bustling harbor and historic spectacular views from every suite and room. Luxuriate on spacious decks, ideal for watching the sunset or barbecuing your catch of downtown filled with quaint shops and art galleries. Experience the day. New Pet Suites available. Be sure to visit Glass Beach and trophy sport fishing, glacier and wildlife cruises, sailing, hiking, kayaking, flight seeing and more. A wide range of accommodations, MacKerricher State Park. The Beachcomber Motel offers the perfect location to enjoy the upcoming holidays. Ask about our Life After 50 restaurants, RV parks, tent camping, and visitor services are special. (800) 400-SURF (7873) or www.TheBeachcomberMotel.com available. (907) 224-8051 or www.Seward.com

CALiFoRniA

a time. With 60 spacious 1 and 2 bedroom suites featuring all of the amenities of a home, Lido Restaurant, The Spa at Dolphin Bay and an array of activities, guests can experience the best of the Central Coast. (800) 516-0112 or www.thedolphinbay.com THE LODGE AT LAKE TAHOE - Centrally located in South Lake Tahoe.

Our Studio, one, and two-bedroom condominiums provide ample space and the comforts of home to relax after a fun-filled day. Our heated pool is open seasonally with hot tub open year-round. Our on-site resort amenities serve as the premier spot to relax and enjoy South Lake Tahoe. Call today (866) 469-8222 or visit www.8664myvacation.com.

PISMO COAST VILLAGE RV RESORT – Located right on the beach, this beautifully landscaped RV resort features 400 full hookup sites, each with complimentary Wi-Fi and cable TV, on 26 grassy, tree-lined acres. Enjoy general Store, children’s arcade, restaurant, laundromat, heated pool, bicycle rentals and miniature golf course. The resort offers the ideal location for wineries, golf or Hearst Castle. Pismo Coast Village RV Resort was awarded the 2007/2008 National RV Park of the Year. Ask about our mid-week fall specials. (888) RVBEACH or www.PismoCoastVillage.com

BIG SUR LODGE is located in ancient groves of redwood and oak trees in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Big Sur, California. Guests are invited to THE BEACH HOUSE INN is an intimate oceanside property located step back in time to an earlier, more peaceful era. Our 61 cottage-style on the Pacific Coast Hwy 1 in Fort Bragg, California. Choose from 30 guest rooms, each with its own deck or porch, are located on a hillside, within walking distance of our restaurant, gift shop, and grocery store. luxurious rooms with amenities such as fireplaces, large TVs, HBO, Your stay at the Big Sur Lodge includes free access to Pfeiffer Big Sur extended cable, WI-FI, private balconies and large soaking tubs for two. Framed by an Estuary, natural creek views are captured by the State Park, Andrew Molera State Park and Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. (800) 424-4787 or www.BigSurLodge.com balcony windows - with the beach and bicycle path just a 500 foot RIVERSIDE DOWNTOWN PARTNERSHIP – Riverside is home to a walk away. Ideal for travelers and bird fans alike, the Beach House Inn number of historic landmarks and special attractions, ranging from is minutes by car to Fort Bragg or Mendocino. Designated pet-friendly THE CURLY REDWOOD LODGE is one of northern California’s most unique lodges. It was built from one curly redwood tree that produced 57,000 board feet of lumber. We are 5 minutes away from the Redwood National and State Parks; right across the street from our lovely harbor and beaches. After a day of hiking the redwood forests or walking our pristine beaches you can relax at the lodge and watch the beautiful sunsets over the harbor and smell the fresh ocean air. What a storybook ending to a Available October 1 through November 25, 2014 perfect day! (707) 464-2137 or www.CurlyRedwoodLodge.com

Buy One Night, Get One Night Half-Off

Guided Wilderness Tours in Alaska and Canada

Explore with us the true North America. Luxury Sightseeing • Canoeing • Hiking • Fishing

1-888-667-2209 • RubyRange.com

DOLPHIN BAY RESORT & SPA - Set along the rugged California Coast, just south of San Luis Obispo on California’s Scenic Highway 1, Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa is centrally located in Pismo Beach.

The Dolphin Bay is the ideal hotel for romantic getaways or family vacations where guests stay anywhere from two nights to months at

Restrictions and blackout dates apply.

The Lodge

Enjoy the Drive World-class Fishing • Kayaking • Sailing • Hiking Camping • Dog Sledding • Wildlife & Glacier Viewing

at Lake Tahoe

Cherish the Stay

• One & Two-Bedroom Condos • Partial/Full Kitchens • Centrally located

Seward Chamber of Commerce & Conference and Visitors Bureau PP.O. Box 749 • Seward, AK 99664

Phone: (907) 224-8051 • VisitSeward@Seward.net

Call Today!

Rates from

$89/night!

Seward Named #1 of Top Five US Destinations for 2010 by TripAdvisorÂŽ

An Oceanside Property on a Bird Estuary, nestled in Fort Bragg on Pacific Coast Hwy 1

866.469.8222

LA50

The Sur coastline offers Only dramatic a five hourBig drive from the LA area, the dramatic Big Sur coastline offers breathtaking views from California’ s breathtaking views.

Enjoy the tranquility, and Pacific Coast Highway.

Enjoy the spend the night surrounded by ancient oaks tranquility and cool ocean air, and spend and redwoods at the Big Sur Lodge. the night surrounded by ancient oaks Mention this adatfor and redwoods thea Big Sur Lodge. complimentary breakfast.

Or Visit Us

www.8664myvacation.com

PISMO COAST VILLAGE

PISMO COAST VILLAGE RV RESORT was awarded the 2007/2008 National RV Park of the Year

Your base for exploring Central California

A recreational resort, nestled right on the beach. 400 fully developed sites with picnic tables, fire rings, Wi-Fi, utilities and satellite TV hookups all included in one price!

RV RESORT

Mention this ad for 10% off your room rate.

Ask About Our Fall Midweek Discount

Big Sur Lodge

Reservations: Call 888-RV-BEACH

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park 707-961-1700

www.beachinn.com

Beachcomber Motel On the Beach

47225 Highway One, Big Sur, CA 93920 âoâWWW BIGSURLODGE COM

165 Dolliver St., Pismo Beach, CA 93449

www.PismoCoastVillage.com

With the Pacific Ocean at its front yard

Nestled On The Mendocino Coast Suites, Barbecues & Hot Tub Suites

Downtown Riverside is an oasis of authenticity. It’s a real place, with real history, real culture, real cuisine, and real discoveries.

New Spa with Stone Massage Whale Watching Visit The Redwoods World Famous Glass Beach

Stroll, shop, dine, and be pampered.

800-400-SURF (7873) www.TheBeachcomberMotel.com

90 LIFeAFter50.cOM OctOber 2014

66255GS

The Ideal Place to Enjoy the Holidays!

www.curlyredwoodlodge.com

(707) 464-2137

www.RiversideDowntown.org 951.781.7335

www.facebook.com/RiversideDowntownPartnership

HAWAii

Turtles!” Join Baja Expeditions on a wildlife cruise aboard a luxury 45ft Catamaran, watch a sea turtle lay eggs at night, relax for a BANYAN HARBOR RESORT is exceptionally suited to accommodate weekend at Isla Espiritu Santo eco-camp, or schedule a coastal groups and families for your vacation to Kauai, Hawaii. Each tropical kayaking expedition. Baja Expeditions has your bucket list covered! vacation rental offers separate living, dining, and sleeping areas, plus 800-843-6967 or www.bajaex.com fully-equipped kitchen. With amenities that include a heated pool, PACIFIC DELIGHT TOURS - Air inclusive China Tours from barbecue grills, tennis court, and shuffleboard, the Banyan Harbor Resort offers plenty of fun leisure activities for your next vacation to $2,599*. Explore all of our Asia destinations: China, Hong Kong, Kauai. Ask about our $119 special for two-bedroom, fully-equipped Singapore, Japan, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, condominiums. Add a car rental for $39 per day. (800) 422-6926 or Indonesia, and India. For more information: Call (800) 221-7179 or visit www.PacificDelightTours.com www.VacationKauai.com

SURF & SAND LODGE is located on the beach in Fort Bragg, and Northern California’s spectacular and rugged Mendocino Coast – the ideal location to explore Fort Bragg, Glass Beach, Macke richer State Park and the Mendocino Coast. We have 30 beautiful and luxurious rooms, 24 with an ocean view. intERnAtionAL We also have rooms with fireplace and spa tub for two. Enjoy the magnificent ocean, whale watching, and beautiful sunsets, all from your own private balcony. Remember, it’s fun to spend the holidays at the beach. Ask about our BAJA EXPEDITIONS - “See up close and personal grey whales at Laguna San Ignacio. Make new friends with Sea Lions and Sea Life After 50 special. (707) 964-9383 or www.surfsandlodge.com

CoLoRAdo & UtAH COLORADO TRAILS RANCH - What you need is a week unwinding and exploring the wonders of our first class guest ranch. Colorado Trails Ranch is not far from Durango, in lovely Southwest Colorado. Set in the spectacular panoramas of the San Juan Mountains, our dude ranch resort offers lifetime experiences for singles, groups and entire families. There isn’t one difficult activity in our perfectly personalized programs. The food is delicious, the comfort is wonderful and you’ll feel like a well cared member of the family. (800) 323-3833 or www.ColoradoTrails.com

TARA TOURS specializes in tours to Latin America with more excitement and mystery one could experience in a lifetime of travel. Tara Tours can take you there, with great service and tour programs, designed with your desires and budget in mind.

Experience the majesty of Machu Picchu, Rio de Janeiro’s “Cidade Maravilhosa,” indigenous market of Chichicastenango; Peru’s * Amazon Jungle; the incredibility of the Galapagos Islands, Chile and Argentina’s Patagonia,the ruins of Tikal, Easter Island, and natural beauty of Costa Rica.

(800) 327-0080 or www.TaraTours.com

No Mortgage Payments for Life!

HoUSinG & RELoCAtion

RUBY’S INN & RV PARK is the closest accommodations to southern Utah’s Bryce Canyon National Park. We offer 368 deluxe guest rooms, restaurants, general store and gallery, conference center, car care, and a RV park and campground. Our guests can enjoy swimming pools and spas, or browse the general store, shops and gallery. We feature year-round activities including cross-country skiing, horseback rides and scenic flights. Ruby’s Inn and Bryce Canyon National Park are open all year. (866) 878-9389 or www.RubysInn.com

On the Stunning Mendocino Coast

Luxurious Beachfront Lodging • 50 Yards from the Pacific Ocean!

Whalewatch from Your Private Balcony! • Designated Pet Rooms Fireplaces & 2-Person Spa Tubs • Easy Walk to Downtown Fort Bragg Mountain bike trails within 20 miles of the motel Kayaking, Sportfishing & Surfing

*FHA-Insured HECM Mortgage. Must be 62 or better to qualify.

(888) 688-6556

SurfSandLodge.com • 707.964.9383 A WESTERN ADVENTURE OF A LIFETIME!

Utah’s only Active-Adult Golf Community w w w. s u n r i v e r. c o m

BANYAN HARBOR VACATION CONDOS Banyan Harbor RESORT

Exceptional VALUE AT $119 per night

A first-class dude ranch in the mountains outside of Durango.

Horseback Riding Fly Fishing River Rafting Western Dancing Campfire Cookouts

Ask About Our Discount Weeks!

(800) 323-3833 www.ColoradoTrails.com

BrYcE CaNyOn NaTiOnAl PaRk, UtAh

ClOsEsT AcCoMmOdAtIoNs To BrYcE CaNyOn NaTiOnAl PaRk 1.866.878.9398 | RuBySiNn.CoM

From $3,299*From $3,299*

Spend twelve days on a tour of Beijing, Xi’an, Chongqing, Yangtze River Cruise, and Shanghai. Feel the splendor of Four Seasons and Shangri-La hotels, and a package of luxurious amenities with Executive Suites onboard Victoria Cruises. Grand time guaranteed!

12 Day Imperial China & Yangtze River Gold Experience®

One and Two Bedroom Condos w/ Full Kitchen, AC & Washer / Dryers Block from Kalapaki Beach, Restaurants and shopping, Triple AAA rated Free WiFi, Tennis, Parking, Shuffle Board and Pool w/Great Views

Compact Car Add $32 per day!

Managed by Outrigger Lodging Services

Call Toll Free (800) 422 6926 • www.Vacation-Kauai.com Email reservations@banyanharbor.net

BAJA EXPEDITIONS

BrYcE CaNyOn GrAnD HoTeL HiStOrIc RuBy’S InN

RuBy’S Rv PaRk & CaMpGrOuNd

SUNRIVER - ST. GEORGE is southern Utah’s premier master-planned active adult lifestyle community. Built in an unspoiled, rural location, SunRiver St. George provides a quiet, superbly planned community with occupancy limited to at least one resident 55 or older. From the golf course layout and community center design to the floor plans of our sensational SunRiver St. George homes, the active adult lifestyle is our central point of focus. SunRiver St. George is “building a lifestyle, not just homes.” (888) 688-6556 or www.SunRiver.com

Wildlife Cruises Aboard Luxury 45ft Catamaran Coastal Sea Kayaking Expeditions Weekend at Isla Espiritu Santo Eco-Camp Sea Lions, Sea Turtles & Whales

Baja Expeditions has your bucket list covered!

800.843.6967 • www.BajaEx.com

From $3,299* *Prices are per person based on double occupancy and do not include transpacific air or initial arrival and departure transfers. CST 2098539-20

www.pacificdelighttours.

(800) 221-7179

LLA50-062014

fascinating museums to one-of-a-kind outdoor adventures. Visitors to downtown Riverside can enjoy its historic architecture while shopping in a number of unique boutiques, dining at a range of restaurants, or enjoying performances at venues such as the Fox Performing Arts Center. Many other Southern California attractions are within easy driving distance so Riverside is a great base for vacations in Southern California. For more information visit www.RiversideDowntown.org, www.facebook.com/ riversidedowntownpartnership or call 951-781-7335

MACHU PICCHU PRIVATE From US$1,996 pp/dbl Including all private tours, 6 nights hotel acc., local airfare and more!

1-800-327-0080

tara@taratours.com www.taratours.com/peru.htm OctOber 2014 LIFeAFter50.cOM 91

And Finally...

The Bookworm’s Best A Life After 50 book review

by Terri “The Bookworm” Schlichenmeyer

Cosby: His Life and Times

By Mark Whitaker

F

or many years, you spent every Thursday night in the living room of a friend – and you never left your easy chair.

Those Thursday nights were appointments you wouldn’t think of missing, and you always left with a smile. The Huxtable family was just like your family, and in his new book, “Cosby: His Life and Times,” Mark Whitaker will give you a behind-the-scenes look at that iconic show and its star.

William Henry Cosby, Jr. was born into a storytelling family. Though his father was mostly absent, young Cosby was heavily influenced by his paternal grandfather, a spiritual man who loved telling Bible stories.

Cosby sometimes had a hard time understanding his grandfather’s Southern accent, but the elder man’s methods of holding an audience stuck with him forever. After dropping out of high school, home from a stint in the Navy (where he worked in the Hospital Corps and got his GED), Cosby left Philadelphia and headed to New York City. There, he slept on the storeroom floor of a Greenwich Village club and performed on a rickety stage beneath a leaky ceiling. Eventually, it paid off: word got around that he was a funny guy, one who didn’t rely on profanity or racial material to get laughs. Cosby soon had a manager, a wife, and a seat next to Johnny Carson on “The Tonight Show.”

For Cosby, it was a golden time: his comedy career was soaring, he was starring in a television espionage drama – “I Spy” – and he’d become a father. Offstage, however, the nation was working its way through the Civil Rights Movement and, for Cosby, this created a strong urge to be actively involved. He insisted on the hiring of more African Americans for backstage positions and assisted others in their onstage careers. He was also became a fierce advocate for education (he had once wanted to be a teacher), and created children’s programming with that in mind.

In 1984, having heard that Cosby was open to the possibility of a sitcom, producers Marcy Carsey and Tom Werner asked for a meeting. They had something in mind for a very different kind of show. They soon found out Cosby had some ideas of his own. Reading “Cosby: His Life and Times” is like visiting your childhood. Who among us hasn’t felt like we’ve always known Fat Albert and the Huxtable family? Who didn’t want to run away and live with Cliff and Claire?

Not many, I’d guess, and that’s why readers will be surprised at what Whitaker has uncovered and shares. Not only are we treated to the good in Cosby’s life, but the warts as well – both onstage and off. I devoured this comfortfood page-turner with gusto, and believe you will find it equally as tasty. So grab a copy of “Cosby: His Life and Times” and head for your easy chair.

“Cosby: His Life and Times” by Mark Whitaker, 2014, Simon & Schuster, $29.99, 544 pages The Bookworm is Terri Schlichenmeyer, who lives on a hill with two dogs and more than 12,000 books. You can read all of Terri’s book reviews, updated weekly, at www.lifeafter50.com. Just click on “Entertainment” and then “Book Reviews.”

A Look Back

W

hile ghosts and devilish goblins dominated the Halloween costume market for many years, that changed in the 1950s when Ben Cooper, Inc. began licensing and manufacturing costumes based on icons of popular culture. Having already hit Halloween gold with Davy Crockett, Superman, and Zorro costumes, 1964 saw the company, known as the “Halston of Halloween,” bank heavily on the popularity of The Beatles and put out costumes depicting John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr.

The Mop Top costumes were made of thin fabric with a silk-screened image on the front and a mask with “authentic” hair that sold for less than $3 through nationwide retailers. Hugely popular with those who trickor-treated 50 years ago this month, these costumes have gone on to become coveted collectibles. Today, Cooper’s Beatle masks sell for $100 to $250 depending on condition with the rare find of a full costume in its original box garnering between $500 and $800.

92 LIFEAFTER50.COM October 2014

Just A Thought Before We Go

The harvest moon hangs round and high It dodges clouds high in the sky, The stars wink down their love and mirth The autumn season is giving birth.

Oh, it must be October...

– Pearl N. Sorrels

October 2014 LIFEAFTER50.COM 93

94 LIFeAFter50.cOM OctOber 2014

HAWAii

Turtles!” Join Baja Expeditions on a wildlife cruise aboard a luxury 45ft Catamaran, watch a sea turtle lay eggs at night, relax for a BANYAN HARBOR RESORT is exceptionally suited to accommodate weekend at Isla Espiritu Santo eco-camp, or schedule a coastal groups and families for your vacation to Kauai, Hawaii. Each tropical kayaking expedition. Baja Expeditions has your bucket list covered! vacation rental offers separate living, dining, and sleeping areas, plus 800-843-6967 or www.bajaex.com fully-equipped kitchen. With amenities that include a heated pool, PACIFIC DELIGHT TOURS - Air inclusive China Tours from barbecue grills, tennis court, and shuffleboard, the Banyan Harbor Resort offers plenty of fun leisure activities for your next vacation to $2,599*. Explore all of our Asia destinations: China, Hong Kong, Kauai. Ask about our $119 special for two-bedroom, fully-equipped Singapore, Japan, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, condominiums. Add a car rental for $39 per day. (800) 422-6926 or Indonesia, and India. For more information: Call (800) 221-7179 or visit www.PacificDelightTours.com www.VacationKauai.com

SURF & SAND LODGE is located on the beach in Fort Bragg, and Northern California’s spectacular and rugged Mendocino Coast – the ideal location to explore Fort Bragg, Glass Beach, Macke richer State Park and the Mendocino Coast. We have 30 beautiful and luxurious rooms, 24 with an ocean view. intERnAtionAL We also have rooms with fireplace and spa tub for two. Enjoy the magnificent ocean, whale watching, and beautiful sunsets, all from your own private balcony. Remember, it’s fun to spend the holidays at the beach. Ask about our BAJA EXPEDITIONS - “See up close and personal grey whales at Laguna San Ignacio. Make new friends with Sea Lions and Sea Life After 50 special. (707) 964-9383 or www.surfsandlodge.com

CoLoRAdo & UtAH COLORADO TRAILS RANCH - What you need is a week unwinding and exploring the wonders of our first class guest ranch. Colorado Trails Ranch is not far from Durango, in lovely Southwest Colorado. Set in the spectacular panoramas of the San Juan Mountains, our dude ranch resort offers lifetime experiences for singles, groups and entire families. There isn’t one difficult activity in our perfectly personalized programs. The food is delicious, the comfort is wonderful and you’ll feel like a well cared member of the family. (800) 323-3833 or www.ColoradoTrails.com

TARA TOURS specializes in tours to Latin America with more excitement and mystery one could experience in a lifetime of travel. Tara Tours can take you there, with great service and tour programs, designed with your desires and budget in mind.

Experience the majesty of Machu Picchu, Rio de Janeiro’s “Cidade Maravilhosa,” indigenous market of Chichicastenango; Peru’s * Amazon Jungle; the incredibility of the Galapagos Islands, Chile and Argentina’s Patagonia,the ruins of Tikal, Easter Island, and natural beauty of Costa Rica.

(800) 327-0080 or www.TaraTours.com

No Mortgage Payments for Life!

HoUSinG & RELoCAtion

RUBY’S INN & RV PARK is the closest accommodations to southern Utah’s Bryce Canyon National Park. We offer 368 deluxe guest rooms, restaurants, general store and gallery, conference center, car care, and a RV park and campground. Our guests can enjoy swimming pools and spas, or browse the general store, shops and gallery. We feature year-round activities including cross-country skiing, horseback rides and scenic flights. Ruby’s Inn and Bryce Canyon National Park are open all year. (866) 878-9389 or www.RubysInn.com

On the Stunning Mendocino Coast

Luxurious Beachfront Lodging • 50 Yards from the Pacific Ocean!

Whalewatch from Your Private Balcony! • Designated Pet Rooms Fireplaces & 2-Person Spa Tubs • Easy Walk to Downtown Fort Bragg Mountain bike trails within 20 miles of the motel Kayaking, Sportfishing & Surfing

*FHA-Insured HECM Mortgage. Must be 62 or better to qualify.

(888) 688-6556

SurfSandLodge.com • 707.964.9383 A WESTERN ADVENTURE OF A LIFETIME!

Utah’s only Active-Adult Golf Community w w w. s u n r i v e r. c o m

BANYAN HARBOR VACATION CONDOS Banyan Harbor RESORT

Exceptional VALUE AT $119 per night

A first-class dude ranch in the mountains outside of Durango.

Horseback Riding Fly Fishing River Rafting Western Dancing Campfire Cookouts

Ask About Our Discount Weeks!

(800) 323-3833 www.ColoradoTrails.com

BrYcE CaNyOn NaTiOnAl PaRk, UtAh

ClOsEsT AcCoMmOdAtIoNs To BrYcE CaNyOn NaTiOnAl PaRk 1.866.878.9398 | RuBySiNn.CoM

From $3,299*From $3,299*

Spend twelve days on a tour of Beijing, Xi’an, Chongqing, Yangtze River Cruise, and Shanghai. Feel the splendor of Four Seasons and Shangri-La hotels, and a package of luxurious amenities with Executive Suites onboard Victoria Cruises. Grand time guaranteed!

12 Day Imperial China & Yangtze River Gold Experience®

One and Two Bedroom Condos w/ Full Kitchen, AC & Washer / Dryers Block from Kalapaki Beach, Restaurants and shopping, Triple AAA rated Free WiFi, Tennis, Parking, Shuffle Board and Pool w/Great Views

Compact Car Add $32 per day!

Managed by Outrigger Lodging Services

Call Toll Free (800) 422 6926 • www.Vacation-Kauai.com Email reservations@banyanharbor.net

BAJA EXPEDITIONS

BrYcE CaNyOn GrAnD HoTeL HiStOrIc RuBy’S InN

RuBy’S Rv PaRk & CaMpGrOuNd

SUNRIVER - ST. GEORGE is southern Utah’s premier master-planned active adult lifestyle community. Built in an unspoiled, rural location, SunRiver St. George provides a quiet, superbly planned community with occupancy limited to at least one resident 55 or older. From the golf course layout and community center design to the floor plans of our sensational SunRiver St. George homes, the active adult lifestyle is our central point of focus. SunRiver St. George is “building a lifestyle, not just homes.” (888) 688-6556 or www.SunRiver.com

Wildlife Cruises Aboard Luxury 45ft Catamaran Coastal Sea Kayaking Expeditions Weekend at Isla Espiritu Santo Eco-Camp Sea Lions, Sea Turtles & Whales

Baja Expeditions has your bucket list covered!

800.843.6967 • www.BajaEx.com

From $3,299* *Prices are per person based on double occupancy and do not include transpacific air or initial arrival and departure transfers. CST 2098539-20

www.pacificdelighttours.

(800) 221-7179

LLA50-062014

fascinating museums to one-of-a-kind outdoor adventures. Visitors to downtown Riverside can enjoy its historic architecture while shopping in a number of unique boutiques, dining at a range of restaurants, or enjoying performances at venues such as the Fox Performing Arts Center. Many other Southern California attractions are within easy driving distance so Riverside is a great base for vacations in Southern California. For more information visit www.RiversideDowntown.org, www.facebook.com/ riversidedowntownpartnership or call 951-781-7335

MACHU PICCHU PRIVATE From US$1,996 pp/dbl Including all private tours, 6 nights hotel acc., local airfare and more!

1-800-327-0080

tara@taratours.com www.taratours.com/peru.htm OctOber 2014 LIFeAFter50.cOM 95

And Finally...

The Bookworm’s Best A Life After 50 book review

by Terri “The Bookworm” Schlichenmeyer

Cosby: His Life and Times

By Mark Whitaker

F

or many years, you spent every Thursday night in the living room of a friend – and you never left your easy chair.

Those Thursday nights were appointments you wouldn’t think of missing, and you always left with a smile. The Huxtable family was just like your family, and in his new book, “Cosby: His Life and Times,” Mark Whitaker will give you a behind-the-scenes look at that iconic show and its star.

William Henry Cosby, Jr. was born into a storytelling family. Though his father was mostly absent, young Cosby was heavily influenced by his paternal grandfather, a spiritual man who loved telling Bible stories.

Cosby sometimes had a hard time understanding his grandfather’s Southern accent, but the elder man’s methods of holding an audience stuck with him forever. After dropping out of high school, home from a stint in the Navy (where he worked in the Hospital Corps and got his GED), Cosby left Philadelphia and headed to New York City. There, he slept on the storeroom floor of a Greenwich Village club and performed on a rickety stage beneath a leaky ceiling. Eventually, it paid off: word got around that he was a funny guy, one who didn’t rely on profanity or racial material to get laughs. Cosby soon had a manager, a wife, and a seat next to Johnny Carson on “The Tonight Show.”

For Cosby, it was a golden time: his comedy career was soaring, he was starring in a television espionage drama – “I Spy” – and he’d become a father. Offstage, however, the nation was working its way through the Civil Rights Movement and, for Cosby, this created a strong urge to be actively involved. He insisted on the hiring of more African Americans for backstage positions and assisted others in their onstage careers. He was also became a fierce advocate for education (he had once wanted to be a teacher), and created children’s programming with that in mind.

In 1984, having heard that Cosby was open to the possibility of a sitcom, producers Marcy Carsey and Tom Werner asked for a meeting. They had something in mind for a very different kind of show. They soon found out Cosby had some ideas of his own. Reading “Cosby: His Life and Times” is like visiting your childhood. Who among us hasn’t felt like we’ve always known Fat Albert and the Huxtable family? Who didn’t want to run away and live with Cliff and Claire?

Not many, I’d guess, and that’s why readers will be surprised at what Whitaker has uncovered and shares. Not only are we treated to the good in Cosby’s life, but the warts as well – both onstage and off. I devoured this comfortfood page-turner with gusto, and believe you will find it equally as tasty. So grab a copy of “Cosby: His Life and Times” and head for your easy chair.

“Cosby: His Life and Times” by Mark Whitaker, 2014, Simon & Schuster, $29.99, 544 pages The Bookworm is Terri Schlichenmeyer, who lives on a hill with two dogs and more than 12,000 books. You can read all of Terri’s book reviews, updated weekly, at www.lifeafter50.com. Just click on “Entertainment” and then “Book Reviews.”

A Look Back

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hile ghosts and devilish goblins dominated the Halloween costume market for many years, that changed in the 1950s when Ben Cooper, Inc. began licensing and manufacturing costumes based on icons of popular culture. Having already hit Halloween gold with Davy Crockett, Superman, and Zorro costumes, 1964 saw the company, known as the “Halston of Halloween,” bank heavily on the popularity of The Beatles and put out costumes depicting John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr.

The Mop Top costumes were made of thin fabric with a silk-screened image on the front and a mask with “authentic” hair that sold for less than $3 through nationwide retailers. Hugely popular with those who trickor-treated 50 years ago this month, these costumes have gone on to become coveted collectibles. Today, Cooper’s Beatle masks sell for $100 to $250 depending on condition with the rare find of a full costume in its original box garnering between $500 and $800.

96 LIFEAFTER50.COM October 2014

Just A Thought Before We Go

The harvest moon hangs round and high It dodges clouds high in the sky, The stars wink down their love and mirth The autumn season is giving birth.

Oh, it must be October...

– Pearl N. Sorrels

October 2014 LIFEAFTER50.COM 97

98 LIFEAFTER50.COM October 2014