Lifestyles After 50 Hillsborough Dec. 2012 edition

www.LifestylesAfter50FL.com • Hillsborough • FREE

AFTER 50

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December 2012

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So, Here Is Christmas Again!

Dear Readers,

“U

nto us a child is born...”

Those simple words announcing the birth of Christ over two thousand years ago Janice Doyle, have endured through Editor the ages to represent the season embracing late December.

But what we all know is that from August in the craft stores to New Years Day on the football fields, the common theme of Christmas is commerce, and the air is full of images to make our heads spin with expectations. Surely you, too, can expect one of those happy early morning family reunions over the aroma of Folgers coffee in a beautifully decorated home!

Perhaps you’d like to simplify.

Keep the basic carols. Watch a few light, familiar (or Hallmark Channel) movies. Give a friend or spouse another unneeded item to unwrap.

Call old friends and family. The problem is how to deal with the expectations—yours and others.

(I did hear about a man who smiled as he reported that last year his wife had not asked him to get the 25 boxes of Christmas decorations from the attic. He never said a word about it—smart man!)

I’m not anti-Christmas; I just believe that by having such a long, commercialized season children especially are the real losers instead of the winners, and that makes me sad.

There’s just no way to match the expectations set up by the ads and stories and visual images which surround us. It’s what makes a child keep opening gifts until there are no more and then say, “What else?” (And then he’s apt to be scolded for his attitude of ingratitude.)

I am a retired middle school language arts teacher (it used to be called English class). Each year on the day before the school Christmas vacation I gave each of my classes a little talk.

I explained that although movies and TV would have us believe that the Christmas season was going to be a time of perfect families, I knew that would not always be the case.

I would then lower my voice to a confidential tone and say that some of them would have less-than-ideal vacations because of alcohol, drugs, shouting, arguing, neglect and loneliness in their homes. As I spoke of behaviors which happen in homes somewhere in every neighborhood, I would see faces identifying—and hurting—with my message.

My little talk with them always ended the same way: “I wish I could magically make all of your homes into the wonderfully lovely and happy places we see on TV, but I can’t. And if you experience any of this, I want you to know I am so sorry.

Please know that I care. Try to be the very best person you can be, maybe even the only peacemaker in the house, no matter what.”

Invariably, one little guy—who maybe hadn’t said much all year— would mutter “Thanks, Mrs. Doyle” on his way out of the room. And I remember one year a girl sat in the back saying softly through the whole talk: “Uh huh. You got it, Ms. D. Uh huh.”

Let’s all promise this year to help alleviate unhappiness and suffering wherever we find it. Our world is hurting at every level and let’s each find ways to help, ways to bring peace to someone who is hurting.

So, yes, here is Christmas again.

Our gift to you would be what was said two thousand years ago: Peace on earth, good will to men.

Letter to the Editor

Hi there, I can’t thank you enough for the monthly editions of Lifestyles After 50. It’s very informative and has helped many people in this age category go forth in the everyday challenges in our lives.

It’s with great pleasure I go to the “Fun Fest” events and I greatly appreciate all of you and all that you do! You definitely have put a lot of fun and joy in my life and many of my friends have enjoyed participating in the many events.

Thank you and God bless you all. —Ruth Peterson

Hillsborough Edition Published monthly by News Connection U.S.A., Inc. General Manager Dave Tarantul dave@lifestylesafter50.com Publisher/Director of Events & Marketing Kathy J. Beck kathy@lifestylesafter50.com Editor Janice Doyle janice@lifestylesafter50.com Office Manager Vicki Willis vicki@lifestylesafter50.com Production Supervisor/Graphic Design Kim Burrell kim@lifestylesafter50.com Production Assistant Tracie Schmidt tracie@lifestylesafter50.com Customer Service 1-888-670-0040 customerservice@lifestylesafter50.com

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Tampa Bay Dena Bingham: (813) 293-1262 Hillsborough Chuck Bingham: (813) 293-1550 Gina Ambrosio: (813) 965-2750 Pinellas/Pasco Ken Barham: (727) 210-5120 Mike Heidemann: (727) 623-4006 Our other editions: Suncoast Edition: Pinellas/Pasco Counties Lake Edition: Lake/Marion Counties Sarasota Edition: Sarasota/Manatee Southwest Edition: Lee/Collier & Charlotte To learn more, call 1-888-670-0040 Distribution 1-888-670-0040

News Connection USA, Inc. P.O. Box 638 Seffner, Florida 33583-0638 (813) 653-1988 • 1-888-670-0040 Fax: (813) 651-1989 www.lifestylesafter50fl.com

FCOA Attention Readers: The articles printed in Lifestyles After 50 do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the Editor or the staff. Lifestyles After 50 endeavors to accept reliable advertising; however, we cannot be held responsible by the public for advertising claims. Lifestyles After 50 reserves the right to refuse or discontinue any advertisement. Our advertising deadline for the January 2012 issue is Dec. 15, 2012. Magazines are out by the 7th of each month. All rights reserved.

Lifestyles After 50 • December 2012 • page 3

Around Town

BALLET

W H AT ’ S H A P P E N I N G D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 2

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hrough 23 Henry B. Plant Museum’s Victorian Christmas Stroll, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. 14 decorated exhibit rooms; carolers singing, Charles Dickens, toys, gifts, Christmas stockings and Old Saint Nick. $13 for adults, $11 seniors. Hear Bells of Christmas free hand bell concert Sun., Dec. 9 from 2 – 4 p.m. (813) 258-7302.

THE GREAT IMPERIAL BALLET

Holiday Treat!

Soho Images will be on site during the three performances of The Nutcracker (Dec. 22-23) 90 minutes before curtain and during intermission to take holiday photos for you and your family!

Stop by and see them in the lobby during this time to get a keepsake of your family holiday tradition.

T

“Marvelous” costumes “with inventive, whimsical touches” (John Fleming, Tampa Bay Times)

“… This Nutcracker is a standout among the many.”

(Carrie Seidman, Sarasota Herald-Tribune)

DEC. 22-23

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ment, entertain Give live lasts a lifetime. t a the gift th

hrough 16 A “Tuna Christmas” holiday production at Masque Theatre. Fri. and Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 3 p.m. Seniors (60+) $12. ($2 off price with new, unwrapped toy or gift. Omar K. Lightfoot Center, 10901 N. 56th Street, Temple Terrace. (813) 983-1710.

T

hrough Jan 5, 2013 Tampa Downtown on ICE. Ice skating ($10/90 minutes), activities, lights, free movie (Dec. 28). Sponsored by Friend of Tampa Recreation. info@friendsoftamparec.org.

W

ednesdays Tai Chi with Bonnie Birdsall at Upper Tampa Bay Regional Library; 1:30 p.m. Fridays.

Same class at Charles Fendig Library, 2:30 p.m. Call (813) 273-3652 for information about either class.

6 For Reservations: 813-620-3332 Visit us at–tampabus.com

Hard Rock Tampa Pick up 9 a.m. Return 3:30 p.m.

Pay $15 Per Person Get $25 Free Play & $5 Meal Voucher Dec. 4, 18 • Jan. 8, 22 • Feb. 12, 26 Evening Pick Up 3:45 p.m., Return 10:30 p.m.

Seminole Casino Immokalee Pick up 9 a.m. Return 3:30 p.m.

Pay $15 Per Person Get $25 Free Play & $5 Meal Voucher Dec. 4, 18 • Jan. 8, 22 • Feb. 12, 26 Evening Pick Up 3:45 p.m., Return 10:30 p.m.

Boggy Bottom Food, Music and More! – $40 Call the office for more information.

Min. 30 passengers required! Ask about our day trips too!

All prices subject to change!

Lifestyles After 50 • December 2012 • page 4

Concert by Eastern Hillsborough Community Band at Clubhouse, Rice Creek Mobile Home Park, 10719 Rice Creek Drive, Riverview. $5 suggested donation. 7 p.m. Info: (813) 569-1771; info@ehcb.org.

7 8

Holiday Bingo and Buffet at Memorial Hospital. 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. 25 cents/card. RSVP to (813) 342-1313.

Christmas by Candlelight Concert

by Plant City Community Choir at Evangelical Presbyterian Church, 1107 Charlie Griffin Road, Plant City. 6 and 8 p.m. concerts. $12 at the door. Info at pccommunitychoir.com or (813) 493-1979.

8

Art in the Park, a local art festival, at Ybor City Saturday Market, 1800 E. 8th Ave., Tampa. Opens at 9 a.m. Information at (813) 241-2442.

8

Holiday Gift Expo at Strawberry Festival Expo Hall, Plant City. Specialty merchants offer unique items. 10 a.m. opening.

13

Oldsmar Senior Center Annual Holiday Luncheon.

11 a.m. Cypress Forest Rec Center, 650 Pine Avenue N., Oldsmar. RSVP

by Dec. 11 to (813) 749-1155.

13

“Tim & Scrooge,” a musical sequel to Dickens’ Christmas Carol, at Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Rd., Tampa. $8. Call (813) 269-1310.

14

Singles Dance sponsored

by Strawberry Singles Club.

Stardust Dance Center, 1405 S. Collins St., Plant City. $7 non members.

Dances every Friday (8 p.m. and Sunday 3 p.m.) (863) 409-7714 or strawberrysingles51@yahoo.com.

17

“Getting Through the Holidays” seminar at Harvester United Methodist Church, 2432 Collier Pkwy, Land O’Lakes.

5:30 p.m. RSVP: (727) 844-3946.

18

Grief Support Group at St. Joseph’s John Knox Parkinson’s Support Group (3rd Tuesdays). Call Briana at (813) 632-2443. Caregiver Support groups last Weds. of month.

Send Around Town news to News Connection USA, Inc., P.O. Box 638, Seffner, FL 33583; fax (813) 651-1989 or email janice@lifestylesafter50.com.

News must be received by the 10th of the month prior to event (i.e.

December 10 for January event.)

Coming to the Straz Center

4 – 9 Dixie’s Tupperware Party in Jaeb Theater

11 – 16 Sister Act 13 – 22 Holiday Inc., musical in the Jaeb Theater

22 – 23 The Nutcracker, The Great

Imperial Ballet by Patel Conservatory at the Straz Center. Tickets: $20.50 and up. (813) 222-1002.

Jan. 9 – 27 Wicked

Get tickets online at strazcenter.com or (813) 229-7827.

Dec. 5, 2012

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Lifestyles After 50 • December 2012 • page 5

Casey Could Go to Bat and Have Fun With These Guys

BY JANICE DOYLE

T

hey smile and joke a lot, but they make no apologies to each other for their slower steps as they move around the bases. And when you consider that all 110 men who make up the Brandon Senior Softball Association issues have to be tended are ages 60 to 90, slower Jack Peifer at bat. to. But every Tuesday and steps are not surprising.

Thursday morning from 9 “It’s just the greatest thing anybody to 11, these men will be on the ball can do,” says 78-year-old Jack Peifer, field near Dover if it’s at all possible. association president. “Almost all the They drive from as far north as guys played ball when they were kids, Wesley Chapel and from as far and now they can come back and act south as Wimauma because they like kids. They just enjoy themselves.” love to play. There’s encourageSo, here’s the thing about the eight ment mixed with typical baseball teams on the field one perfectly beaufield trash talk as the teams move tiful Florida morning when I watched around the dugouts and the fields. them play: Many of them have had “We have doctors, lawyers, fire chiefs, shoulders, hips and/or knees replaced. former pro baseball players, congressDoctor appointments have to be kept. men, politicians,” says Peifer. “It’s just Grandchildren come and go. Family a great bunch of players,” says Peifer.

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Alan Deamer, who was out a year with shoulder problems, is happy to be back on the field. “I just love this,” he says.

He plays with a former pro for the Phillies. And Jerry Heniak, who played for the Cardinals.

“How well a former pro player does depends on how they stayed in shape before their 60th birthday.

Some got involved in jobs and couldn’t stay in shape,” Peifer says.

There’s a 78-year-old who had never played baseball before but wanted to give it a try. “He can’t hit the ball, can hardly throw the ball, but we let him play every time and we give him 10 or 12 strikes and he hits the ball and is happy.”

Peifer himself played semi-pro and for Navy Special Services when he was young.

See Spot.

And here’s the other thing about the games: They’re very simple. Teams call their own games. And there’s the safety factor. The joints required to run the bases aren’t what they were 40 or more years ago. That’s why there’s an expanded home plate made of wood. Peifer says, “If the ball hits the wood it’s a strike, and if it doesn’t it’s a ball. Keeps it simple.”

Dual bases at home and first base avoid collisions. Pitchers can pitch from behind a screen if they so choose.

The rules are the same as ASA except 11 men are in the field instead of just 9. “We have our share of arguments, all in good taste and all in fun.” Yes, Casey, the batter of poetry fame, would love this kind of game.

Watch the Brandon Senior Softball Association play at 9 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at the William Owen Pass Sports Complex, 1300 Sydney Dover Road in Dover. For info, call Jack Peifer at (813) 326-0432.

League dues are $20 annually.

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Tel: 201-461-1980 • www.biria.com 813-319-3735 Lifestyles After 50 • December 2012 • page 6

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WE LOVE OUR SENIORS. You built our great country.

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��� � � � � � � � �Sock Monkey: The Holidays Past Insurance Discounts ForSharing Mature Drivers of our kids’ house, I knew I wanted great pleasure he had given to me so They were charming, soft, to appear on Christmas morning in a many years ago when I was a child. cuddly and a favorite of many unique pair of pajamas—it is fun to It is always fun to see this affable children—myself included. be the “outrageous” grandmother. little sock fellow sitting atop heads And then they disappeared, going I eagerly ordered sock monkey and being wrapped around jackets as the way of Gumby and Your Pokey, Mr. Take Class Online! pajamas and slipper-socks online for he keeps people warm. But mostly, the Bill and Mr. Potato Head.

Yet there

BY CJ GOLDEN • Study at your leisure, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. myself and Donna and got smaller thrill I get from seeing the rebirth of they were again—the appealing little ec. 25 is a day to bring families and dolls in an assortment versions of the socks for each of the sock monkey in sharing a piece of colors and • Simply read the course materials online and then answer a few quizis questions. friends together, share good food and sizes, replicas embroidered the grandchildren.

Donna ordered of my childhood with my children and onto • There is no need to attend boring classes or listen to long lectures. cheer and remember Christmases past. two pairs of Rockford Red Heel grandchildren. They understand that cuddly lap blankets and fashioned • After course will issue a state-certifi ed certifi cate for youthey to are And that is just what occurred last year withwe instructions for us to in their sock monkey items into scarves, winter hats completion, and slippers. ofsocks turngift into company receive your discount for aathree year period. when I spent Christmas with my children They were the perfect make our own socktomonkey dolls. experiencing bit of the young girl foryour two ofinsurance and grandkids—and a sock monkey.

Much to my pleasure, the kids were Grams was so many years ago. And my friends, gals who I knew would Let me explain: While rifling through quite amused when Donna and I apthat is what holidays are all about— enjoy the whimsy of these items and Take Your Mature Driver Course On The Internet! holiday catalogues last year, I noticed the would be able to recall their own peared in our pajamas and slippers. And bridging the years and bringing the you have and are 55their years of age or older, you are WIRE) resurgence of the once ubiquitous sock they were License delighted at receiving generations together.

(SENIOR childhood sock If monkey dolls.a Florida Driver’s monkey. These charming little creatures own pairs of sock monkey foot wear.

It wasn’t long before I started to spotnow eligible complete motor vehicle accident prevention course that will allow first appeared in the early 1900s when ting adults and teens alike wearing all The piece de resistance came when you to receive a mandatory reduction on your insurance rate for three years. several very ingenious and talented manner of sock monkey paraphernalia. Donna produced the sock monkey kits women started fashioning Rockford and we spent much of the morning I saw that this was a gift my grandRed Heel work socks into monkey making personable little dolls— children would appreciate as well. dolls for their children. The fad caught I hadn’t realized, however, the profound complete with the hair color, button on and in short order children around of sharing this little guy eyes and hats of the kid’s choices.

Floridabegan Department Highwaysignificance Safety the country toting theirofown with the children. Gearing up for my And thus, this charming little fellow, sock monkey dolls, each with its own Course & Motor Vehicle Approved Christmas Eve overnight stay with my having been reborn, gave to my personal touches and characteristics. husband and daughter Donna at another family’s newest generation the same

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Lifestyles After 50 • December 2012 • page 9

e id u G y a d li o H r u o Y r— Gifts With Characte Geek Turns Chic Gifts Not Your Typical Gift Ideas Education The gift of education is the greatest gift and something your grandkids will not outgrow. A Florida Prepaid College Plan or Florida 529 Plan are tax-exempt plans and offer a variety of savings options to suit any budget. With the Florida Prepaid College Plan, families have the ability to lock in today’s plan prices and prepay tuition and fees at Florida’s 11 universities and 28 colleges.

Where Do Missing Things Go When They Just Disappear?

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For The Foodie How about a gift box of 6 handmade 2 oz. jumbo lump blue crab cakes plus a pint of Maryland Red Vegetable Crab Soup. The products are from the Kent Island Crab Cake plant on Chesapeake Bay.

For Someone With Arthritis Pick a Pilot pen with Dr. Grip Center of Gravity (COG) to make writing simple again. The pens are ergonomically designed to reduce stress on the hand for a comfortable, effortless writing experience.

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Garmin Fenix GPS Watch (around $399)

Ho, Ho, Ho: Give A New Recliner

Being a tech-obsessed geek has never been more fashionable and col lines form for the latest candy- colcomput ored phones, cameras and computers. Young and old alike have an eye for style and an affinity for gadgets.

You may not know what a tablet is in today’s gadget world, but if “they” have one, their gadgets can go stylish in one of these trendy cases.

It’s a classic holiday gift—a new recliner. But it’s easy to get stumped by all the choices today. Recliners are not your dad’s favorite plaidcovered chair anymore. Here are some tips: When choosing a recliner, consider the size, shape and fit of the chair. Here are five tips from Ekornes, makers of the Stressless recliner, to help you easily choose a recliner that fits your physical and aesthetic needs:

1. Choose a size. Keep in mind not only how much physical space you have for a new recliner but also the size of recliner that will fit your shape as well. “Recliners with attached ottomans will never fit your exact shape and size,” says Janet Odum, of Ekornes. “Choose a chair with a feature that allows you to unlock the ottoman so it tilts when you recline, which takes pressure off your knees, ensuring a more comfortable position.” And make sure the piece fits your personal size needs.

2. Consider longevity. Consider the quality of fabrics, leathers, woods and metals and remember that while quality recliners cost more up front, the right recliner will provide years of comfort and support.

(Stressless recliners are built to last between 20 and 25 years.)

3. Narrow down your style preferences. No longer bulky pieces, new designs and materials offer a variety of modern and sleek chairs or love seats.

4. List your must-have features. Recliners now also offer a variety of features, including lumbar support and articulating headrests to cradle the head and neck in the reclining position. Also look for a sleep function to fully recline and a dual support base, ensuring that the base of the recliner will provide even support whether you’re sitting or in the full reclining position.

5. Still stumped? Go with a classic model to last through any future home décor preferences.

To learn more about the variety of recliners available, and to find a store near you, visit ekornes.com/us/stressless-recliners. (Family Features)

Lifestyles After 50 • December 2012 • page 10

Rugby by Ralph Lauren (about $100)

Boden Women’s Tablet Case (about $25)

Haute and Healthy For the fitness friends among us, get the Fitbit Ultra Wellness Monitor to measure steps, distance and calories and then upload wirelessly to a website for graphs and charts of steps, active steps, distance and sleep quality. It helps track diet, heart rate, blood pressure, glucose and works with both PC and Mac – no additional subscription fee to track activity online. It has an iPhone app and an Android app and integrates with an increasing number of other apps and fitness tracking sites.

High-Tech Watch Many different types of high-tech watches from GPS watches to health watches that monitor heart are available. Many also double as USB flash drives, phones, SD card readers and even spy cameras!

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S

ince 1995, amateur, commercial and professional bakers have competed in the National Pie Championships to determine who makes the best pies in America.

The new book, America’s Best Pies: Nearly 200 Recipes You’ll Love is a collection of some of the award-winning pies from the American Pie Council/Crisco national Pie Championships.

Recipe Inside the book, you’ll find sections for apple pie recipes, cherry pie recipes, followed by sections of chocolates, custards, peanut butter, pumpkin, raisin, special dietary and much, much more. Most have pictures alongside the recipe.

Each recipe comes with a recipe for crust and there are numerous variations on your mother’s basic pie dough recipe—like this one:

2 c flour 1 c cake flour 1 1/2 Tbsp sugar 1 tsp salt 8 Tbsp frozen butter, cut up 1/2 c plus 2 Tbsp frozen Crisco, cut up 2 Tbsp vinegar 1 large egg yolk 4-5 Tbsp ice water 1/2 c crushed cornflakes Egg glaze: 1 egg white plus 1 Tbsp water To make crust: blend dry ingredients; cut in butter and shortening with a pastry blender.

Add egg yolk, vinegar and minimum amount water. Toss until mix begins to clump together. If it looks dry, sprinkle on more water.

Form dough into ball and flatten into a 6-inch disk for single shell or divide in half and make two disks for double-crust pie.

Wrap dough and chill 1 hour or overnight.

Soften to room temp, roll out for crusts.

Here’s a sample of a pie that could grace any holiday table:

Lifestyles After 50 • December 2012 • page 12

Oreo Almond Crust 24 Oreo cookies 1 c almond slivers 4 Tbsp butter, melted Filling 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cut in half 4 oz dark chocolate melted in the microwave 4 oz milk chocolate melted in microwave (do not melt until ready to prepare 3rd layer) 3/4 c Cool Whip 12 oz jar red raspberry preserves (seedless) To make crust, grind cookies and almonds in food processor. Add melted butter. Press into pie tin; bake 10 minutes. Cool before adding filling.

To make filling: beat 4 oz cream cheese.

Add melted dark chocolate. Beat until smooth and spread into crust. Freeze

until set. Meanwhile, microwave preserve 30 seconds or until liquid. Cool slightly and pour over chocolate layer. Freeze until preserves are cool and have returned to gel state. Beat remaining cream cheese until smooth and add melted milk chocolate. Beat til smooth. Beat in Cool Whip. Spread over raspberry layer.

Freeze until set. Garnish with Cool Whip rosettes, chocolate curls and shavings.

Enter to win a copy of the book “Americaʼs Best Pies.” Enter early! Weʼll draw a winnerʼs name on Dec. 18 and mail the book in time for you to use as a Christmas gift if youʼd like. Submit your name, address and phone number by mail: News Connection USA, Inc., P.O. Box 638, Seffner, FL 33583, Attn: Pies. Or by email: janice@lifestylesafter50.com (subject line: Pies). Drawing Dec. 18.

For the Car-Lover: The Gift of Speed and Performance

“T

he experience is unique,” says David Lalmond, 71, who drove a black Lamborghini for 8 laps at the Exotic Driving Experience on the Walt Disney World Speedway in Orlando.

“There are no intersections and no speedometers. It’s just driving one of the world’s finest automobiles.”

Marie, 65, from Ohio, checked an item off her bucket list by driving a yellow Lamborghini. Two dads and their three 30-something sons from Boston drove Porsches and

Y

es, ICE! is back at Gaylord Palms Nov. 10 through January 1 —featuring DreamWorks’ Merry Madagascar. It’s two million pounds of icy fun!

ICE! is Florida’s frigid Christmas tradition, with over 20,000 square-feet of frosty 9-degree bliss played out in a winter wonderland of exciting handcarved sculptures. And this

then gave high fives all around while comparing the speeds they’d achieved on the track straightaway.

Now, in addition to the long-time stock car driving experience offered at the Richard Petty Driving Experience (next to Magic Kingdom), anyone with a driver’s license can get behind the wheel of a “supercar” and live the dream of going from 0 to 60 in 3 to 4 seconds, braking on a dime and taking corners like a pro.

The Exotic Driving Experience makes a great gift! Driving Experiences start at $169. Thrill Rides with a professional driver behind the wheel are available for $99.

Junior Rides are available, too.

Reservations can be made at exoticdriving.com or by calling (855) 822-0149.

year it’s really all that it’s cracked up to be, featuring two-story tall ice slides carved entirely from two million pounds of ice and an all-new tribute to the unforgettable DreamWorks’ Animation TV classic Merry Madagascar.

And while you’re thawing out from all the ice, you can bask in the dazzling lights of the Christmas décor throughout the resort and the spirited Luminescence Christmas show. Visit ChristmasAtGaylordPalms. com for more info.

Save your energy

and focus on the important things in life.

Let the energy experts at Tampa Electric show you how to save on energy costs.

When you participate in our free Home Energy Audit, one of our energy analysts will visit your home and identify areas where you can save valuable energy.

You’ll also learn about our other energy-saving programs including Energy Planner, Ductwork and more.

Visit tampaelectric.com/save to schedule your free Home Energy Audit today or call 813-275-3909.

Stop at our table on January 23 at the Florida State Fairgrounds from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Bring this ad and receive a free energy-saving kit, made available through Tampa Electric’s Energy Education Outreach program.

Lifestyles After 50 • December 2012 • page 13

A Day in the Animal O.R. SARAH STALNAKER, DVM

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ne of the most common questions I receive as a small animal veterinarian is whether anesthesia is safe for the four legged members of their family. Many people have heard stories of pets dying while under anesthesia, even during simple procedures such as spays, neuters or dental cleanings.

Caring For Your Pet With the advancements in anesthetics and monitoring systems today, the probability of this occurring is extremely rare, less than 0.1%. However, it is still normal to be nervous when your cat or dog is undergoing anesthesia. Come with me on a journey through a day in the operating room.

I’ll explain what happens after you drop your pet off for their procedure.

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First, I perform a physical exam to screen for any obvious health problems that might increase surgical risks.

These might include a heart murmur or arrhythmia, pale gums or even enlarged lymph nodes.

Then blood is drawn to check for normal kidney and liver function, and to confirm that your pet is not anemic.

I call clients immediately to discuss any issues that are detected during the pre-anesthetic screening process. An intravenous catheter is placed in some animals depending on the type of procedure and their health status. Each pet is then weighed and preoperative pain medications are administered.

An injectable anesthetic is given into one of the veins on the pet’s leg.

Next, I insert an endotracheal tube which seals the windpipe and prevents

any regurgitation of food or liquids during surgery. This tube provides oxygen and anesthesia during the procedure.

Monitoring of the heart rate, respiratory rate, oxygen levels in the blood and body temperature are performed continuously during and after surgery by a trained veterinary technician. The pet is never left without direct monitoring by the veterinarian and technician.

Finally, the surgery is completed and your pet is moved into recovery. They are placed on a heating pad wrapped in thick towels and then a blanket is placed over them that circulates warm air to prevent their temperature from dropping. Some pets wake up quickly and are ready for attention, while others seem to enjoy sleeping in the warmth for hours. During this time, the endotracheal tube is removed and vital signs continue to be monitored until recovery is complete. Soon I will call to inform you on how the surgery went and when you can come to take your beloved pet home.

Veterans Corner

Thirty Days With My Father—A Memoir of the Effects of Generational PTSD

C

hristal Presley was Presley says, “Over the 30, overwhelmed by 30 days, we began to form life and feeling unworthy, a relationship, and I got to when she called her father ask him a lot of really hard and asked him to answer questions about his behavior her questions about the when I was a kid. I wanted to Vietnam War for 30 days. know why he hated me—be“I had thought my cause I thought he did—and family was the only family why he would close himself haunted by the after effects in a room and not let us in.” of war,” she says, recountAs he talked, she realized ing a childhood spent in she thought he still hated her.

Christal Presley fear of her father’s rage, In fact, it shifted Presley’s threats, isolation and dewhole life to pression. After the conversations, learn that he she started blogging about what felt his wife she’d learned, and it opened the and daughter floodgates for other children “were his very of veterans to say “That’s my soul, and he story, too.” The emails she gets hadn’t locked now number in the thousands. himself away Without knowing quite because he hated how it happened, Presley us but because has become the voice for a he loved us and generation of children of knew that he Vietnam War veterans. They was dangerous, are victims of “generational gravitating from PTSD,” suffering PTSD as depression to a result of a parent’s sufferrage. He knew he ing. Many haven’t spoken was capable of to their fathers in 20 or 30 years. hurting us and Presley started therapy at 18. Over was protecting us from himself.” time she discovered there were As the 30 days progressed, she could unhappy pieces of her life she “needed tell he was glad to talk. At first his to deconstruct” which could only be voice was shaky and Presley said done with her dad’s input. So she she “cried a lot.” She finally asked asked him for 30 days. “I wanted to him how he felt about the conversahave an ending point. I was taking tions they were having. “He said he a huge risk that it would be a total loved talking to me. He said was so disaster, and I wanted to be able to proud of me. I never knew that.” say that I’d seen it through. I knew I Knowing that now, she wrote could stand anything for 30 days.” her story for others to see the pain The first call ended in his hanging and reconciliation of the effects of up on her. But she called back—and wartime trauma and its aftermath. kept calling. By day five they were The memoir Thirty Days With My face to face. She says, “He was Father: Finding Peace From Wartime talking about the war and it wasn’t PTSD is Christal Presley’s memoir. all horrible things like I thought it The daughter and father now talk three would be. He told me about the war or four times a week, and she says, from a historical perspective. I hadn’t “He’s interested in my life and he realized he understood that part of it.” and my mother both love the book.”

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Grief and the Holidays

I

f you’re dealing with the recent death of a family member or close friend, cancer survivor Deborah Cornwall recommends that you be willing to change family rituals.

Consider focusing the holidays around family and friends in a new setting.

Instead of having family come to your house, think of going to a new place. Or schedule a family trip over the holidays so you and your loved ones can be together in a stimulating and new environment that would give them lots to see, do and talk about.

Lifestyles After 50 • December 2012 • page 15

Medicare Answers D

ear Marci, I recently signed up for Medicare and my Part B premium is being taken out of my Social Security check each month. I cannot afford to pay my premiums. Are there any programs that can help me pay for Medicare Part B? —Darrell

Dear Darrell, Yes, you might qualify for a Medicare Savings Program (MSP), which is an assistance program that helps people with limited income pay for the Medicare Part B premium.

There are three common MSPs, and each one has different eligibility limits. The three main MSPs are: • Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB)

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Lifestyles After 50 • December 2012 • page 16

The Healthy Geezer

BY FRED CICETTI

Q

. I’ve noticed that I can’t drink a cup of regular coffee after mid-afternoon. It keeps me awake at night. I used to be able to drink coffee at dinnertime and it never bothered me. Is this another age thing?

Uh-huh. Sensitivity to caffeine—the pick-me-up in coffee—tends to increase as you get older. Children metabolize caffeine quicker than adults.

About 90 percent of Americans consume caffeine daily. More than half of all American adults consume more than 300 milligrams of caffeine every day, making it America’s most popular drug.

Caffeine occurs naturally in many plants, including coffee beans, tea leaves and cocoa nuts. It is therefore found in a wide range of food products.

Caffeine is added artificially to many others, including a variety of beverages. The most common sources of caffeine for Americans are coffee, tea, colas, chocolate and some over-the-counter medications.

Here are some useful numbers to help you determine how much caffeine you take in: A 6-ounce cup of coffee—100 mg A 6-ounce cup of tea—70 mg A 12-ounce can of cola—50 mg An ounce of chocolate—6 mg One tablet of Extra Strength Excedrin—65mg One tablet of Anacin—32 mg One tablet of Maximum Strength NoDoz—200 mg For most people, 200 to 300 milligrams a day aren’t harmful. But, if you are sensitive to caffeine or use certain drugs, you may want to cut down or eliminate caffeine from your diet. Your caffeine consumption is worth discussing with your doctor.

Caffeine can cause restlessness, anxiety, irritability, muscle tremors,

sleeplessness, headaches, nausea, diarrhea and abnormal heart rhythms.

Some medicines and supplements interact negatively with caffeine.

These include some antibiotics and bronchodilators. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about whether caffeine might affect the medicines you take.

In the practice of medicine, caffeine is useful as a cardiac stimulant and also as a mild diuretic. Caffeine is an addictive drug. It stimulates like amphetamines, cocaine, and heroin.

If you feel you have to have caffeine every day, then you are addicted to it. Eliminating caffeine suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms, such as headaches and fatigue. These symptoms usually pass after several days.

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Here are some tips if you want to chase the caffeine monkey: • Read labels carefully for ingredients and keep track of the caffeine you consume.

• Gradually reduce the amount of caffeine you take in. This will enable you to acclimate to less caffeine and reduce the effects of withdrawal.

• Start drinking decaffeinated coffee, tea and soda.

• Brew your tea for less time to cut down on caffeine. Or try herbal teas, which are caffeine-free.

• Check the caffeine content in overthe-counter medications that you take.

If you can, switch to caffeine-free forms of the medications you need.

If you would like to read more columns, you can order a copy of “How To Be A Healthy Geezer” at www.healthygeezer.com. All Rights Reserved © 2012 by Fred Cicetti.

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For people with Medicare

The Service You Want… The Care You Deserve

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A Health Plan with a Medicare contract. The benefit information provided herein is a brief summary, not a comprehensive description of benefit. For more information please contact the plan. Benefits, Formulary, Pharmacy network, premium and/or co-payments/co-insurance may change on January 1st 2014. You must continue to pay your Part B premium. You may be able to get extra help to pay for your prescription drug premiums and costs. To see if you qualify for getting extra help, call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) (TTY/TDD 1-877-486-2048) 24 hours a day, 7 days a week; The Social Security Office at 1-800772-1213 between 7 am and 7 pm Monday through Friday TTY user should call 1-800-325-0778; or Your State Medicaid Office. You can also contact Florida Healthcare Plus Customer Service Department at 1-866-988-2210, we are open 7 days a week 8am to 8pm October 15, 2012 until February 14, 2013 then Monday through Friday 8am to 8pm. (TTY/TDD users should call 1-800-955-8770). This info is available for free in other languages, contact Florida Healthcare Plus for additional information. *Limitations, copayments, and restrictions may apply.

H4199_MKT_FLY_120_FILE&USE_08162012 Lifestyles After 50 • December 2012 • page 18

Chronic Pain and Dental Disease

L

ast week I met Devin for the first time. Devin is a healthy-looking guy in his late twenties and even after talking to him you would never know that he suffers from chronic pain. What you might notice, however, is the fact that Devin hides his smile. “Ever since I started on the pain meds ten years ago, my teeth have deteriorated. They are just crumbling away. It’s very frustrating and debilitating,” he explains.

In the past ten years Devin has undergone nine surgeries for his condition called hydrocephalus, which means that the brain does not drain its fluid properly. Devin suffers from intense head- and neck aches. “I really wish I could just stop taking my medications and one time I tried, but then I am so miserable, I cannot lead a normal life.

So this was the lesser of two evils”.

Few people are aware of the negative impact that chronic pain medications can have on your teeth. They tend to get brittle and more susceptible to decay. The fact that most pain meds can cause dry mouth only adds insult to injury. Saliva is a very important protective factor for teeth and its absence can result in rapid tooth loss.

Devin is excited to get his teeth fixed so he can chew foods properly and smile again. His front teeth are completely broken off at the gumline and lots of back teeth are severely decayed. Devin has multiple abscesses deep in bone where root tips from broken teeth had festered and his gums are in pretty bad shape as well.

Devin wanted to save as many teeth as possible, but he was also prepared to lose all of them. Since there are some teeth that are still in good shape, we decided to pull all hopeless teeth, fabricate partial dentures and then anchor those with dental implants once Devin is free of infection. I am really excited to be part of Devin’s journey to good oral function and a handsome smile!

Dr. Sarah Jockin lives and practices in Tampa, FL. To read more of her articles or contact her for a free consultation, visit ImplantDentistTampa.com or call (813) 960-9500.

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Lifestyles After 50 • December 2012 • page 19

Ways to Improve Your Bone Health

Savannah Court

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Savannah Court is an elegant yet comfortable community offering 24-hour access to a well trained and friendly staff. The private or semi-private spacious suites offer sun filled windows, kitchenettes and full private baths.

• Restaurant Style Dining Experience • Housekeeping, Laundry and Maintenance Services • Vibrant Activities Program • Transportation for Outings and Medical Appointments • Cable is included within the monthly rental fee • Secured exterior doors and emergency call system for added safety • Day Service and Short Term Respite Program available Call us today, stop by for a visit, join us for lunch, or all of the above. You are always welcome!

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t is nearly impossible to get adequate calcium from diet alone. Supplements can help bridge the gap to ensure you are getting enough of this essential mineral. However, choosing a supplement can be daunting. Pharmacy and health food store shelves are lined with an overwhelming number of calcium and other bonebuilding supplements. Many claim to be superior but we have to look to science to support those claims.

People are also concerned about product purity, as it was recently revealed that some supplements may be contaminated with heavy metals and other undesirable ingredients.

Here are some pros and cons of bone-health supplements:

Coral calcium: These supplements are made from limestone, which is a form of calcium carbonate. Some companies selling coral calcium have made exaggerated health claims about the benefits

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Lifestyles After 50 • December 2012 • page 20

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in people 55 and older. It is a chronic disease affecting more than 10 million Americans, and early detection is key to saving your sight.

Protect your vision from fading away.

Call the Foundation Fighting Blindness today for a free info packet about preventing and managing AMD.

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of these supplements. As a result, there has been FDA and FTC action due to lack of data to support claims.

Calcium carbonate: This is the least expensive and most widely found type of calcium. Calcium carbonate is quite bulky, meaning the tablets are very large and often hard to swallow. Thus chewables are preferred.

Heavy metal contamination with calcium carbonate has been a recent issue.

Calcium citrate: Citrate provides less elemental calcium and is more expensive than carbonate.

However, it may be a better choice for those with low stomach acid.

Eggshell calcium: The latest research shows that one of the cleanest and most absorbable forms of calcium comes from eggshells. It is called ESC. It’s so easily absorbed by the body that you need to take less of it than other forms of calcium.

Eggshell supplements are safe, natural, gentle on the stomach and do not contain contaminants. There are also products available now made with natural eggshell membrane, or NEM, to support joint health. This is a significant advantage since joint health is critical for mobility, flexibility and quality of life. There are a variety of products that include ESC or NEM showing up in the marketplace.

Other supplements to consider: It is often difficult to get a sufficient amount of magnesium and vitamin D from food. Both of these nutrients are essential for bone health. Likewise, boron, copper, manganese, phosphorous, vitamin K, silicon and zinc are other nutrients involved in bone formation.

Final Thoughts Osteoporosis is preventable, not inevitable. There are various ways to build strong bones and protect ourselves against osteoporosis. A diet that is rich in calcium, magnesium and vitamin D, regular weightbearing exercise and nutritional supplements are key elements in our personal fight against osteoporosis.

7 Tips for Choosing a Retirement Community

I

f you’re here just visiting, you may be thinking you’d like to buy your own place. No doubt you’ve discovered that there are many choices to consider when it comes to retirement living.

Whether researching a retirement community for yourself or a loved one, it’s important to ask the right questions, keeping in mind factors such as present and future needs, community location and financial situation, among other considerations.

Retirement Living Here are some tips from ACTS Retirement-Life Communities that will put you on the right path toward finding a retirement community to best meet your needs now and for the long-term.

1. Check the background of the community: Find out who owns and manages the community, as well as the track record of management. Determine if the community is accredited for meeting high standards in services, operations and finances. Review the financial performance of the organization, including any credit ratings the company has received from agencies like Standard & Poor’s or Fitch.

2. Consider future health needs: Retirement communities today offer many amenities and services but

5. Use a services and amenities check list: Get a complete information packet that includes application for admission, fee schedules, floor plans and the resident contract. Compare each community’s pricing to amenities, programs and services that are important to you.

not all provide medical care, making another move a possibility should health needs change. Continuing care retirement communities are the only type of senior community that offers independent living, assisted living and skilled nursing care on a single campus. Some CCRCs even offer specialized programs such as memory care, home health care and adult day programs as part of their services.

3. Get detailed information about fees: Learn what all fees do and do not include, when fees are subject to increase and under what conditions. Ask about the average fee increase over the past five years. Consider the financial advantages and disadvantages of the contract options the community offers.

4. Meet with residents and tour the community: Arrange an appointment to tour the community, meet with residents and staff and sample the food and the service. Notice if the community is clean, well maintained and secure.

6. Ask about recreational and social activities: Find out what kind of social, cultural, educational, spiritual and wellness activities are available. Is there an activities director on staff to plan entertainment, events and trips? Is transportation available?

7. Consider location and find out if there is a waiting list: Is the community located near family, friends, doctor’s office, place of worship and shopping? Find out if there is a waiting list to move into the community and how it works.

Rocky Creek Retirement Village Assisted Living Facility License #5227

Retirement Living We offer a wide variety of Independent Living Options, from 1bed 1bath to 4bed 4bath, units. Included are the following: water, garbage, basic cable, sewer and lawn service

Assisted Living Our full range of Assisted Living services are designed to help you maintain your health, so you can live as independently as possible. These include assistance with bathing and dressing, medication management, emergency response system LPN/CNA scheduled at all times.

Let us help you create the lifestyle you always wanted...

Call Us Today!

(813) 884-3388 Ext 231 8400 W. Waters Ave. Tampa, FL 33615 www.rcrp.com Lifestyles After 50 • December 2012 • page 21

Smart Financial Moves for Late 2012/Early 2013

BY BILL LOSEY, CFP®

REVERSE MORTGAGE FACTS

Robert Harris

• Federally insured • No income/credit requirements • Live in your home mortgage free • Retain ownership and equity rights • Heirs not responsible for deficiencies • Use the cash any way you want • HARP & Traditional Refinances

Reverse Mortgage Specialist

Learn the Truth about Reverse Mortgages!

727-804-6605 robert@streamlinefg.com www.streamlinefg.com

Car Break-in! Are You Covered?

Y

GPS, window: “Your auto policy covers the car and anything that’s permanently attached,” explains Angela Preciado, USAA auto product management director. The coverage for your insured auto would include the broken window and the GPS, as long as the system is permanently attached. If it isn’t, it would be considered personal property within the

vehicle and would be covered—along with any other personal property—up to a limit of $250.

Computers, ring: The laptop and iPad are covered up to the personal property limit of a renters or homeowners insurance policy. A personal computer endorsement can be added to those policies for special coverage for the laptop and iPad. Since insurance coverage begins after you pay your deductible, it makes sense to add a computer endorsement to a homeowners policy, which usually has a much higher deductible than a renters policy.

There are limitations for theft of jewelry under the renters and homeowners policies. It’s recommended to secure a valuable personal property policy (around $5 a month and no deductible) for jewelry with a value over $1,000.

Lifestyles After 50 • December 2012 • page 22

• Make a charitable gift before New Year’s Day. If you give cash, you need to document it. If you pledge $2,000 to a charity in December but only end up gifting $500 before 2012 ends, you can only deduct $500.

Does the value of your gift exceed $250? If so, document it and file Form 8283 when your total deduction for non-cash contributions or property in a year exceeds $500.

Finance

Specializing in the Tampa Bay Area

ou parked in a well-lit restaurant parking lot. Your laptop and iPad were on the back seat, and your diamond ring was in the glove compartment.

While you were at dinner, thieves smashed your window and stole your computer, iPad, ring and the car’s GPS system. You have auto insurance and renters insurance policies.

What’s covered? And what’s not?

W

hat can you do to lower your 2012 taxes? Before the year fades away, you have plenty of options. Here are a few that may prove convenient:

• Contribute more to your retirement plan. If you haven’t turned 70½ and you participate in a traditional (i.e., non-Roth) qualified retirement plan or have a traditional IRA, you can reduce your 2012 taxable income by the amount of your contribution. If you are self-employed and don’t have a solo 401(k), a SIMPLE plan or something similar, consider establishing and funding one before the end of the year.

In 2012, you can contribute up to $17,000 in a 401(k), 403(b) or profit-sharing plan, with a $5,500 catch-up contribution also allowed if you are age 50 or older. You can put up to $11,500 in a SIMPLE IRA in 2012, $14,000 if you are 50 or older.

The $2.99 Special

W

• Practice tax loss harvesting. You could sell underperforming stocks in your portfolio—enough to rack up at least $3,000 in capital losses. If it ends up that your total capital losses top all of your capital gains in 2012, you can deduct up to $3,000 of capital losses from your 2012 ordinary income. If you have over $3,000 in capital losses, the excess rolls over into 2013.

Are there other major moves that you should consider? Your to-do list might be long, for much financial change may occur in 2013…

• Pay attention to asset location.

Here are two big reasons why tax efficiency should be a priority as 2012 leads into 2013: Next year, dividend income is slated to be taxed as regular income. So tax on qualified stock dividends could nearly triple for the wealthiest Americans.

Capital gains taxes for high earners are scheduled to jump 33% in 2013.

Long-term capital gains are now taxed at 15% for those in the highest four income brackets; that rate is supposed to rise to 20% next year.

Federal taxes are poised to rise next year, but one little detail isn’t getting enough publicity: the planned 3.8% Medicare surtax scheduled to hit single/joint filers with AGIs over $200,000/$250,000 will not apply to qualified payouts from Roth accounts.

Talk with a qualified financial or tax professional today. Vow to focus on being healthy and wealthy in the New Year.

“You mean I’d have to pay for not taking the eggs?” my wife asked incredulously.

e went to breakfast at “YES!” stated the waitress. a restaurant where the ‘senior special’ was two eggs, bacon, “I’ll take the special then,” hash browns and toast for $2.99. my wife said.

“Sounds good,” my wife said.

“But I don’t want the eggs.”

“Then, I’ll have to charge you $3.49 because you’re ordering a la carte,” the waitress warned her.

“How do you want your eggs?” the waitress asked.

“Raw and in the shell,” my wife replied. She took the two eggs home and baked a cake.

Three Golden Rules for Selling Your Fine Jewelry N

o matter what the price of gold, there’s no shortage of businesses offering to turn your treasures into cash. If you’re thinking of selling your gold jewelry, USAA’s graduate gemologists Craig Wright and Kevin Adkins offer these seven tips to help you make sure you’re getting a fair price.

1. Stick to Reputable Dealers The gold rush has attracted some unlikely buyers. Stick with established, reputable dealers. Look for gemologists listed on the American Gem Society website and read online reviews.

“You need to shop around for a gold buyer the same as you would when buying a car or home to make sure you are getting fair value,” says Adkins.

2. Go with Reasonable Expectations Pricing your gold is a little trickier than you might think. If you have a 3-ounce gold necklace, for example, you can’t simply multiply the current per-ounce price of gold by three.

That’s because the quoted price is for pure gold. The value of your jewelry depends on just how pure it is. To

figure that, divide the number of karats by 24. For example, 12-karat gold is 50 percent pure and would only have a top-line value of half its gold weight.

The karat purity is usually stamped somewhere on the jewelry, such as 12k or 18k. Jewelry bought overseas may instead be stamped with a number indicating its purity: Instead of 18k, it may read 750, indicating 75 percent purity.

Realize that whoever is buying your gold needs to make a profit, too. “Generally, businesses buying gold from the public will sell it to refiners for about 90 percent or more of its scrap value.

To profit, they have to give you less than what they get,” explains Wright.

3. Shop Around The more sellers you talk to, the greater your chance of getting a better price. As a first step, call ahead and ask how much a business is currently paying per gram of gold. That’s a quick way to narrow the field and save time and hassle. Once you’re down to two or three competitive buyers, bring your piece to them to get a firm offer. When you’re at the store, take an active and engaged role. Watch the buyer weigh it and don’t hesitate to ask questions.

Take special caution if you’re selling gold watches. “To weigh it, buyers will need to remove the movement and the crystal. They may charge you for that. If you change your mind, you could be stuck with a broken crystal or a poorly reassembled watch,” says Wright. Information from USAA.

Shopping for Electronics?

T

ips for holiday shopping:

• Negotiate, especially on electronics. Be informed and sweet talk the sales associates (no bullying!).

• Consider buying refurbished electronics, often good as new without the high price tag. Open-box items?

Ask about the remaining warranty before purchasing.

• Skip the extended warranties. Most experts agree they’re not worth the cost; your credit card will often offer additional protection.

FREE INFORMATION SERVICE Lifestyles After 50

for information please return completed form to:

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Win a $25 Gift Certificate to Home Depot!

When you complete this form and mail it back, your name will be entered to win a $25 gift certficate to Home Depot.

(Drawing held the 20th of each month.)

P Last Month’s Winner Was: P P Ferne Lamb — Congratulations! P

Lifestyles After 50 • December 2012 • page 23

Cracker Country Seeks Volunteers in Preparation for the Florida State Fair

E

very year during the Florida State Fair, Mildred W. & Doyle E. Carlton Jr. Cracker Country opens its gates and welcomes Fair goers into Florida’s past. With the Fair just around the corner, February 7 – 18, 2012, the museum is in full swing looking for volunteers to help teach rural Florida’s history.

Cracker Country offers a variety of opportunities to match the diverse interests of potential volunteers.

Roles such as historic interpreter, maintenance, gardening, sewing, spinning, model train displays, store clerks, office work, outreach,

and more. Training is provided and experience on all levels is welcome.

“Volunteering at Cracker Country is rewarding because it offers volunteers the opportunity to make a difference in their community, promote the preservation of Florida’s unique past, meet new people and gain museum experience, specialize in a specific area of interest and work in a team atmosphere,” said Jennifer Becker, Museum Supervisor. “In addition, volunteers can generally schedule their work to accommodate family, work, or other responsibilities.

We strive to have a flexible and

Lifestyles After 50 Events!

Mark your calendar for these great FREE events near you, brought to you by Lifestyles After 50 magazine. Find great information, entertainment, health screenings, prizes, giveaways and more! Call 888-670-0040 or visit our website at www.lifestylesafter50fl.com for details.

December 5, 2012, (10am-3pm) 6th Fun Fest & Jamboree!, Plant City, FL, Strawberry Festival Grounds. Live Music, Dancing, Free Bingo, Health Screenings, Sports Area. Free Coffee & Muffins. Fun Games & Prizes. Free Parking & Admission.

January 10, 2013, (10am-3pm) Lifestyles After 50 Fun Fest, Robarts Arena Sarasota, FL. Live Music, Free Bingo, Free Health Screenings. Sports Center, Free Admission.

January 23, 2013, (10am-3pm) 8th Lifestyles After 50 Fun Fest, Florida State Fairgrounds, Tampa, FL. Live Music, Free Bingo, Free Health Screenings. Sports Center, Free Admission & $3 Parking. “Grandkids Are The Greatest Photo Contest.” Fun Walk.

February 15, 2013, (10am-3pm) 2nd Lifestyles After 50 Fun Fest, Bradenton Municipal Auditorium, Bradenton, FL. Live 50s and 60s Music, Trivia, Free Bingo Games, Free Health Screenings, Free Coffee & Goodies, Prizes.

February 26, 2013, (8:30am-1pm) 17th Fun Fest and Backwoods Walk at Museum of Science And Industry (MOSI), Tampa, FL. Exhibitors, Prizes, Free Entertainment, Free Health Screenings, Coffee, Free Admission to MOSI and $2 Parking. Free Bingo Games for Prizes! Walk starts at 8am; Fundraiser for Kids Science Classes.

Lifestyles After 50 • December 2012 • page 24

rewarding environment that people can be excited to be part of.”

Cracker Country and its staff and volunteers is part of the Florida State Fair Authority, which oversees the operations of the Florida State Fair, as well as non-fair events throughout the year.

During the Florida State Fair, museum visitors explore the grounds and interact with costumed volunteers to take part in the customs of the past. Guests can take home a newspaper printed on an antique printing press or try a taste of real sugar cane before watching its juice being boiled into syrup. Other activities include visiting crafters and demonstrators throughout the museum grounds, observing how tools were used in the early 1900s, discovering the art of spinning, woodcarving, blacksmithing and making cow whips in the time of Florida’s pioneers.

Cracker Country is Tampa’s only living history museum. Its collection of thirteen original buildings dating back from 1870 – 1912 were relocated from across the state of Florida beginning in 1978 when the museum was established by Mildred W. & Doyle E. Carlton, Jr. Since then the museum has played an essential role in teaching the traditions of rural Florida. The museum welcomes the public to learn through hands-on activities the way of life for Florida’s pioneers—chores, school lessons, farming, locomotives, family responsibility, and bartering.

For more info about Cracker Country’s volunteer program please contact Jennifer Becker, Museum Programs Supervisor, at (813) 627-4225 or Jennifer.Becker@freshfromflorida.com.

� � � � � ����Discounts ���������� Insurance ������������������

For Mature Drivers

����a��Florida’s Have ����������� Driver’s License ��������� �������� and are 55 ����������years ������� of age or older? ���� ������������

Take Your Class Online! ���at��� ���leisure, ������ • Study your 24�� hours week. �����a day, 7 days a�� ���������������� • Simply course materials online and then answer a few quiz questions. ����read ���the ���������������� � � � �� �� �� • There is no need to attend boring classes or listen to long lectures. �� �������������� ��������������������� • After completion, of course we�� will issue a�� state-certified certificate for you to

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Take Your Mature Driver Course On The Internet!

If you have a Florida Driver’s License and are 55 years of age or older, you are now eligible to complete motor vehicle accident prevention course that will allow you to receive a mandatory reduction on your insurance rate for three years.

Florida Department of Highway Safety & Motor Vehicle Approved Course

To Register go to:

www.seniordriverclass.com

or call 1-800-771-2255

Pinellas Auditions: January 16 - 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Japanese Garden Mobile Estates 19709 U.S. Highway 19 North Clearwater, FL 33764-1006 Senior Talent Show: February 6, 2013 - 7:00 p.m.

Largo Cultural Center 105 Central Park Drive • Largo, FL 33779 SENIOR IDOL SHOW - April 1, 2013 at 7 p.m.

Ruth Eckerd Hall 1111 McMullen Booth Road • Clearwater, FL 33759

Hillsborough Auditions: January 23 - 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Brandon Community Center 503 East Sadie Street • Brandon, FL 33510 February 16, 2013 - 3:00 p.m Spoto High School 8538 Eagle Palm Drive • Riverview, FL 33578 Senior Talent Show February 16, 2013 - 3:00 p.m.

Spoto High School 8538 Eagle Palm Drive Riverview, FL 33578

Participants must be at least 55 years young. Only solo & duet acts, no groups please. Please bring your own instruments and your own tape/cd or accompanist to the audition. A piano will be available. Audition on first-come first-serve basis. No Entry Fee to audition.

Ten Acts will be chosen from the auditions to perform at the show!

For Information call: Pinellas: 727-329-2618 – Susan Juhl and Nicole Woodring Hillsborough: 813-436-2296/813-436-2114 – Andrea White and Chrissy Crumpton

A F T E R 50

Lifestyles After 50 • December 2012 • page 25

Surprising Way to Gain Confidence and Health A

SIGN UP O T DAY!

One mile “FUN” Walk around Florida State Fairgrounds Walkers Receive: T-Shirt, Continental Breakfast, & PRIZES to the Winners!

Jan. 23, 2013

Florida State Fairgrounds, 4800 Hwy. 301 N. • Tampa, FL 33610 Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. • $3 Parking

Warm Up by Silver Sneakers Walk starts at 9:15 a.m., $3 minimum donation for local charities.

Please make checks payable to: News Connection USA, Inc. er Join us Aft . .. lk the Wa

FREE!

Jan.23, 2013 • 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. • Florida State Fairgrounds Join the Fun! SEND This Walk Form Today!

Fill out this form and mail it with your $3 donation to:

News Connection USA, Inc. P.O. Box 638 Seffner, FL 33583-0638 YES! I would like to join the Lifestyles After 50 Fun Walk Jan. 23, 2013!

MAIL DEADLINE Jan. 10 or Register at the Florida State Fairgrounds 8:30 a.m., Jan. 23, 2013 Walk starts at 9:15 a.m.

Age Name Address City

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E-mail Address Signature Sponsored by...

Date

In consideration of our acceptance of this entry, I for myself, my heirs, devises, executors, administrators and assign hereby waive, release, discharge any and all claims against Florida State Fairgrounds or News Connection USA, Inc., or anyone sponsoring or conducting this event or their employees, representatives or successors for any and all damages or injuries I may suffer. I hereby, grant permission for the free use of my name and pictures in any broadcast or account of this event.

FAIR

Lifestyles After 50 • December 2012 • page 26

new study shows that older people who adopt new technology are more confident and healthy.

It may be a surprise that the fastest-growing segment of social media users are over the age of 45, and particularly, those 65 and over. The study suggests that seniors who regularly surf the net, use communication tools like Skype, Facebook and Twitter feel more “connected” with their friends, loved ones and communities.

Today’s research shows that about 25 percent of people aged 80 years and above and more than a third of those between 65 – 79 were willing to learn new technologies.

“In order for people to remain integrated within a world that increasingly relies on new technology, it is important that older people are offered

opportunities to adopt and use the new technologies, such as computers, smart phones, personal tablets and the internet,” said Dr. Helen Feist.

New, easy-to-use technologies such as iPhones, iPads and other tablets encourage older adults to try other technologies, as well. They eventually become more comfortable with technology overall and are more willing to accept new technology into their lives and homes. The study reports that tablet technology has made it 30 percent easier for older adults to use the internet.

“Older adults who adopt new skills as they age improve their confidence, health, enjoy richer levels of social and civic engagement and are more resilient to life stressors and crises,” said Dr. Feist. From Newswise.

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Lifestyles After 50 • December 2012 • page 27

San Diego: This Time, Leave the Port and Head over the Hills for

BY JANICE DOYLE

I

f hearing “Anchors Aweigh” stirs your soul, San Diego may be in your past. A trip back to the port can offer a trip down memory lane as well as some new adventures. Generations of men have either trained at a Navy or Marine facility in the San Diego area or shipped out on one of the ships attached to the Pacific Fleet.

The San Diego area is home to the largest military complex in the world, with an estimated 170,000 military and family members.

Travel

We enjoyed the drive on Route 79 with charming mountain communities. Here are some suggestions about what to see and do:

• First stop: San Vicente Resort near the town of Ramona for golf, tennis, swimming and hiking plus restaurants on site for true relaxation.

• Ramona, the town, embraces its Wild West and pioneer roots through displays at the Guy B. Woodward Museum in town. Check the town’s website for rodeos and pow wows.

• Dudley’s Bakery as you drive through the village of Santa Ysabel is known for yummy breads and pastries!

Naval Base San Diego is homeport to more than 50 ships. And you can tour the USS Midway, an aircraft carrier with a long and noble history.

Movies featuring the area include Top Gun with Tom Cruise, who flew out of Miramar Naval Air Station, and Sands of Iwo Jima where John Wayne raced up a hill at Camp Pendleton, the setting for the WWII battle.

Hotel Del Coronado

Across a bridge from downtown, be sure to see one of the last of the great hotels, the Hotel Del Coronado.

Central to the complex is the 1888 original turreted wooden hotel with its sparkling white clapboards and red tile roof. This landmark has been the site of numerous movies such as Some Like it Hot. San Diego County Ready for a new adventure?

Then do what we did and head for the mountains east of the city and the Anzo-Borrego Desert.

Desert Adventure California Overland Tours

The Gold Rush Hotel

• Julian is a hilly town known for gold mines in the past and apple orchards today. Stay at the legendary Gold Rush Hotel (fabulous breakfast!) right in the middle of town. Eat apple pie at one of the cafes early because the town closes up at dark and is a haven for restful sleep. Check the Julian website for the many festivals they hold.

• The nearby California Wolf Center offers understanding of both the Mexican and Alaskan wolves. There’s a great education center and easy live viewing of both species. Only open weekends.

Then it was over the mountain and down, down, down via switchbacks to the town of Borrego Springs on the floor of Borrego Valley in the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.

The town is fast turning into a haven for retirees and boomers.

We stayed at the Santa Fe-style Borrego Valley Inn with an aviary of finches. There are two pools, one with “clothing optional” designation.

Lifestyles After 50 • December 2012 • page 28

• We took a California Overland offroad excursion in an open air military truck to experience the desert. Our guide pointed out where Patton’s army trained before heading to Africa and where training is still held by the military at times. The tour bounced us along rough roads, dry lake beds and into the Badlands, wind caves, slot canyons and more. Jeep tours are also available.

• Don’t miss the Anza-Borrego Park Headquarters, literally built into the desert to conserve energy and to be unobtrusive. Great displays inside and outside hiking trails radiate from the visitor center.

Communities in the world. Ask around for stargazing opportunities offered by various groups.

On your way either in or out of San Diego proper, you’ll pass within a few feet of the Olaf Wieghorst Museum and Western Heritage Center in El Cajon.

His famous paintings portray the 19th century American West and the museum has collections of memorabilia to bring alive memories of Western heroes. You’ll recognize his paintings.

Great collection—don’t miss it. For more info, see sandiego.org

• If you’re not prepared, the sight is startling. What are those creatures in the middle of the desert? Galleta Meadows sculptures are a giant welded metal managerie by Ricardi Breceda.

Dozens of statues through the valley now include notable humans as well.

• When the sun goes down, the desert wakes up. Stargazing is popular in Borrego Springs, one of three certified Dark Sky

Dragon sculpture by Ricardi Breceda

Stretch Your ➻ Strategy The private TVUntil It Whimpers Television Acoustics Breakthrough

BY MARK PILARSKI

listening system ear Mark: Where I play, all the D table games on the weekend have you’ll want to minimum table limits of $10 – $25 a hand, which is far too expensive use… even for my $50 – $100 bankroll.if I have actually lost my entire bankroll in less than 20 minutes. What your recomthere’s noisone mendation for a game that will at least give me some —Jay M. else instaying thepower? room!

a royal, and your payday will be considerably more than what you’d be making while trying to slug it out on a blackjack table at $10 a whack.

Dear Mark: Does losing a hand to lousy play from a fellow player alter the cards on the following hands? —Alex B.

Your question, Alex, highlights one of many popular myths when it comes to playing blackjack, which is(PTLS) that poor play from one System hand influences future cards.

The remaining cards in any deck(s) do not recognize the play of previous hands.

Thethe next hand remains an that bring sound directly to your ears. independent event, and your chances The hi-fidelity of winning orpassive losingnoise are the same isolation speakers stay gently in your ears whether you, or a fellow player, without creating pressure or discomfort. won, lost, or even misplayed, the preceding 5, 10, 15 hands.

Easy to set-up andor use.

For starters, Jay, let’s change up the Thisyou’re new Personal TV Listening game playing: lower your bet size, maintain making that out canbut help millions getbets more have a casino advantage of less than of their favorite past time. two percent. Sticking to this strategy f there is one thing people like to argue will keep you in action longer and about… it’s television. Even if they temper the flow of your hard-earned can agree what to watch, most people money thethe house’s catch-basin. disagreeinto about volume.

That’s because Since where and when you play have most people require different volume such high table limits, allow me to levels, in order to understand and enjoy lead to theshows videoand poker trough.

It theiryou favorite movies.

What’s This plug and play system comes with does involve skill of identifying more, if one some of them is doing something Dear Mark: Does numbers everything you needpicking and the powerful paytables, plus, you will need to use else, like reading or sleeping– the last thing attransmitter video keno involve luck, covers a room up patterns, to 35 by 35 your playis the game television. smart. they noggin want totohear a blaring or is itItbased on previous numbers feet. features rechargeable batteries When forced to compromise and listen to that or have I that have give you up tonot 24 been hours drawn? of listening TV at the same volume– everyone loses. usually play nine spots and have yet from a full charge.

Now, thanks to innovative digital audio to hit my numbers solid. —Fred G. technology, anyone can listen to the TV at the volume they desire without disturbing others. Best of all… the audio is so spectacular you’ll want to use it all the time. Here are a few reasons why the PTLS is the best thing to happen to television since the remote.

High Definition Audio.

TV video technology has stratimproved When playing perfect basic dramatically in thewith pasta few years, egy on a machine decent paybut the audio quality has remained relatively schedule, you can reduce the house unchanged.to well Unlike other advantage under onecomparable percent. systems, PTLS provides Look for a 9/6 (nine for theperformance full qualitysixstereo sound non-progressive (up to 120dB)– house, for a flush) putting you in the acoustic sweet spot of machine or an 8/5-er (same as above) the room– no matter where you are sitting.

with a progressive meter attached that Fully at Customizable. reads least, $2,200 on a quarter The Adjustable Digitalmachine.

Tone control and $8,800 on a dollar enhances and intelligibility Both thedialogue quarter clarity and dollar machines to suit your hearing.

You’ll hear everything will give you a decent long-term from stagebut whispers lifeliketosound payback, if youtowant play effects. for anLightweight extended and period of time, like hours comfortable. onThis end,system a drop the denomination is in designed to rest on your toshoulders a quarterwith machine give you small,with powerful earbuds some serious staying power. Hit

Exclusive home trial.

Why spend time arguing withkeno, your loved Picking numbers at video ones when you could be enjoying Fred, is based strictly on luck. Theyour favorite TV movies together numbers are shows chosenand at random with again. The PTLS comes with firstSTREET’s each draw being an independent event, exclusive home trial, so if you are not so playing past numbers, patterns, or completely satisfied with it for any reason numbers you feel are “due,” does not you can simply return it within 30 days for work.

Video keno uses microprocessor a full refund of the product purchase price. technology and randomized sequencCall today

ing. On a properly functioning video keno Personal machine, no specific number Television or combination of numbers is any Listening more likely to appearSystem than any other number orCall combination numbers. now forof the The upshot here, Fred, is that lowest price ever andvideo keno is a negative-expectation get free extra earbuds for game PTLS with a hefty house edge. AdditionPlease mention Promotional code 49440. ally, the odds of hitting a nine45574. of

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Lifestyles After 50 • December 2012 • page 29

BRIDGE BITES

From The American Contract Bridge League

BY BRIAN GUNNELL

Remove Excess Fat Without Surgery

T

his month we feature a terrific opening lead, found in real life

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Call: 813.978.0020 www.physicalmedicinecenter.net Lifestyles After 50 • December 2012 • page 30

Imagine yourself as East, if you will, looking at the N-E hands. West, the good doctor, leads the Spade Ten. A strange-looking lead, don’t you think? It’s not fourth best, not top of a sequence. Has the doctor’s legendary common-sense finally deserted him?

While you are puzzling over that bizarre opening lead, Dummy plays the ♠Q and you gleefully ruff. What next, Mr East? West found a grand opening lead, and life would be even grander if only you could get back

Introducing Dr. Goodlead to West’s hand for a second ruff. If that is to happen, West must have ♦A or ♣A. Any clues as to which?

The opening lead is your muchneeded clue. West led an unnecessarily high Spade, and is trying to tell you something. Yes, he is advertising the Ace in the higher-ranking sidesuit! So, after ruffing, you shoot back a Diamond to West’s Ace and get your second Spade ruff. Down one!

Doctor G’s lead from ♠KT5432 was not without risk, but he saw no appealing alternative, and he reasonably concluded that East had no more than two Spades (due to non-support in the auction). He didn’t necessarily expect a void, but singleton was also a possibility (in which case West would later win the ♥A and give East a second-round Spade ruff).

What just happened was a Suit Preference signal, whereby, in certain situations, the play of a high card says “I have the higher-ranking suit,” vice versa with a low card. This defensive signal is a rare bird on opening lead, it usually comes later in the hand and even then only in specialized situations. Dr. Goodlead gave us the caviar, we’ll have some meat-and-potatoes examples in later Bridge Bites.

Visit acbl.org for more about the fascinating game of bridge or email marketing@acbl.org. To find a bridge club in Florida, go to district9acbl. org/D9Clubsmap.htm. Bridge article provided courtesy of St. Petersburg Bridge Club: www.stpetebridge.org.

From all of us at u 212

Humor For The Holidays

Unknown Reindeer

T

he game show contestant was only 200 points behind the leader and about to answer the final question—worth 500 points! “To be today’s champion,” the show’s smiling host intoned, “name two of Santa’s reindeer.”

The contestant, a man in his early thirties, gave a sigh of relief, gratified that he had drawn such an easy question. “Rudolph!” he said confidently, “and... Olive!”

The studio audience started to applaud (like the little sign above their heads said to do) but the clapping quickly faded into mumbling, and the confused host replied, “Yes, we’ll accept Rudolph, but could you please explain... ‘Olive?!’”

“You know,” the man circled his hand forward impatiently and began to sing, “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer—had a very shiny nose. And if you ever saw it, you would even say it glowed. *Olive,* the other reindeer...”

All I Need To Know I Learned From Santa

1. Encourage people to believe in you.

2. Always remember who’s naughty and who’s nice.

3. Don’t pout.

4. It’s as much fun to give as it is to receive.

Last Month’s Answers

November Sudoku Alberta Maltby is last month’s winner!

Congratulations!

Win Great Prizes!

New winner selected each month

Dec. Sudoku

5. Some days it’s ok to feel a little chubby.

Sudoku requires no arithmetic skills.The object of the game is to fill all the blank squares with the correct numbers. Each row and each column of 9 numbers must include all digits 1 through 9 in any order. Each 3 by 3 subsection of the 9 by 9 square must include all digits 1 through 9 as well. Good luck! The first correct answers selected from the drawing on Dec. 21 will win.

Send your answers along with your name, address and telephone number to: NEWS CONNECTION USA, INC. P.O. BOX 638, SEFFNER, FL 33583

6. Make your presents known.

7. Always ask for a little bit more than what you really want.

8. Bright red can make anyone look good.

9. Wear a wide belt and no-one will notice how many pounds you’ve gained.

10. If you only show up once a year, everyone will think you’re very important.

11. Whenever you’re at a loss for words, say “HO, HO, HO!”

Word Search December

In the grid below, twenty answers can be found that fit the category for today. Circle each answer that you find and list it in the space provided at the right of the grid. Answers can be found in all directions – forwards, backwards, horizontally, vertically and diagonally. An example is given to get you started. Can you find the twenty answers in this puzzle?

Good Luck!

WIN! WIN! WIN! GREAT PRIZES!

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Word Search Answers From

November

Send your answers along with your name, address and telephone number to: NEWS CONNECTION USA, INC. P.O. BOX 638, SEFFNER, FL 33583

The first correct answers selected from the drawing on December 21 will win.

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Beverly Gould is last month’s winner!

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Lifestyles After 50 • December 2012 • page 31

EE FR IFT t $35 G da

When Grandparents Divorce

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Copyright © 2012 by first STREET for Boomers and Beyond, Inc. All rights reserved.

Lifestyles After 50 • December 2012 • page 32

BY KATIE SAINT, MA, BCBA

T

he divorce rate for couples over 50 has more than doubled since 1990.

Empty nest syndrome combined with retirement often is a difficult adjustment that can cause conflict in marriages, leading to divorce. The stigma associated with divorce is starting to lift as well, so people who would have begrudgingly “stuck it out” are no longer feeling the need to do so. The research states that divorce causes distress for parents, children and grandchildren of any age.

• Infants cannot understand the reasons why, but they do feel the emotional tension in the home. This often displays in irritability, and change in eating or sleeping habits.

• Toddlers can become more clingy or needy when stress increases in the home. This can also be expressed in anger toward parents or siblings that appear to be unrelated to the source of stress. It is common for developmental regression to happen. For example, a child who is potty trained might start having accidents, or a child might start to suck her thumb again.

Sleeping patterns may be interrrupted.

• Preschool and elementary-age children often blame themselves and may have increased anxiety about how their roles will change. For example, they may worry about if they will see Grandma and Grandpa, or if their grandparents will still love them. They may also have nightmares and sleeping problems. It is common for children this age to become aggressive and angry toward parents, grandparents and siblings under this kind of stress.

• Teens may express their struggles by withdrawing from friends, family and special interests. They may feel driven to take care of one or both of their grandparents. They may start to question their own beliefs about marriage, divorce and relationships. They may act out by doing drugs, sexual activity, swearing or aggression.

• Young Adult children of divorced parents often respond stronger than people would think. Expecting your adult

children to take it in stride might not be realistic. This can completely change the relational dynamics. Children’s worldviews can be challenged by this, they might start to question their childhood memories, and they might even struggle with guilt. “My parents said they stayed together all those years because of me.”

Adult children might view the situation as not just their parents separating, but rather that they are “losing their family.”

• Age 30+ — An interesting dynamic that happens when parents of adult children divorce is the parents often heavily depend on the children to transition through the divorce. Parents can forget that their children are grieving, see how capable they are and rely on them to do things that their spouses used to do. This can become a tremendous stress to adult children.

• Parents divorcing in the 50+ age bracket face their own special adjustment problems. They often have family and friends that are 20 to 30 year-long friendships that are discontinued due to the divorce. They may have habits or activities that they never had to learn how to do because their spouse took care of them, and now they are forced to learn how.

Severity of symptoms will greatly vary in all ages based on the situation.

Katie Saint is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and author of “When Grandparents Divorce.” For more info go to revitalizecounselingservices. com. Article from Grandparents.com.

Trust Administration Almost Never Needed

might be necessary is when the trust is a party to a lawsuit or if there is a significant www.flwillstrustsprobate.com problem with the trust of some sort, such as ambiguous language, that requires reader asks: My father recently died.

Although I had no reason to think there court involvement to straighten out.

99 percent of the time after the maker of a would be any complications, I still decided Revocable Living Trust dies, the successor to visit the lawyer who prepared my dad’s trustee need only use common sense and revocable living trust to see if there might be any legal loose ends I needed to attend follow the directions in the trust, first by colleting all trust assets—which may include to as I am the person named as successelling real property and investments— sor trustee in the trust. To my surprise, the lawyer insisted that a court-supervised then by making sure all creditors are paid, remembering to set aside sufficient funds to administration of the trust would be required. When the lawyer explained exactly cover any taxes that may be due and, finally, what a trust administration would entail, it after making an informal accounting to all beneficiaries, simply make distribution sounded an awful lot like a probate to me, according to the terms of the trust. which is exactly what dad was trying to However, attorneys will often caution avoid by doing his trust in the first place. a successor trustee that the statute of Also, I should mention that the lawyer’s limitation for creditors to make claims fee to handle the trust administration would not be cheap. What do you think? against the trust (or if trust assets have already been distributed, against the Response: Run, I repeat, run, from this successor trustee personally) is two lawyer as fast and as far away as you can. years from the maker’s death. If the Only in exceedingly rare circumstances trustee is truly concerned about this, the is a court-supervised trust administration statutory claims period can be shortened necessary or even advisable. Instances that to 90 days by a court supervised trust come to mind when a trust administration administration and publishing a notice

BY WILLIAM R. MUMBAUER, Attorney

A

to creditors in a local newspaper for two weeks. Summary administration is very simple, relatively inexpensive, and takes less than 120 days to complete.

However, many, if not most, successor trustees are intimately familiar with the maker’s finances and, therefore, who their creditors are, since the successor trustee is usually a child of the maker and therefore usually doesn’t feel the need to take the extra step of instituting a summary administration to shorten the claims period and certainly not a court-supervised trust administration.

Mr. Mumbauer, a fifth generation Floridian, has maintained a law practice in Brandon, Florida since 1980 with emphasis on estate planning. He takes special pride in representing the senior community by maintaining a sensitive and practical approach to problem solving.

He is a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, the Elder Law Section of the Florida Bar and is a participating attorney in the AARP Legal Services Network. He is also a Mentor in probate law and has been qualified by the Second District Court of Appeal in Florida as an expert witness in matters involving the drafting of wills. Mr. Mumbauer’s Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review Rating for Legal Ability is 4.4 out of 5 Distinguished and his Martindale-Hubbell Client Review Rating is 5 out of 5 Preeminent. His articles are based on general principles of law and are not intended to apply to individual circumstances.

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(813) 634-9900 or 1 (877) 346-5600 Lifestyles After 50 • December 2012 • page 33

Technology Simplified

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I just wanted to tell firstSTREET that I am having a great time on my WOW Computer. I am learning something new everyday. I am 79 years old and cannot believe that I am typing and sending e-mails to all my friends now. My daughter and granddaughter are so excited now that I have a computer. They use computers on their jobs everyday, but they cannot believe what you can do on this computer. It is wonderful...Thanks.

– Johnnie E., Ellijay, Ga Lifestyles After 50 • December 2012 • page 34

NEW

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From the moment you open the box, you’ll realize how different the WOW Computer is. The components are all connected; all you do is plug it into an outlet and your highspeed Internet connection.

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This is a completely new touch screen system, without the cluttered look of the normal computer screen. The “buttons” on the screen are easy to see and easy to understand. All you do is touch one of them, from the Web, Email, Calendar to Games– you name it… and a new screen opens up. It’s

so easy to use you won’t have to ask your children or grandchildren for help.

Until now the very people who could benefit most from E-mail, and the Internet are the ones that have had the hardest time accessing it. Now, thanks to the WOW Computer, countless older Americans are discovering the wonderful world of the Internet every day. Isn’t it time you took part?

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Have you ever said to yourself “I’d love to get a computer, if only I could figure out how to use it.” Well, you’re not alone.

Computers were supposed to make our lives simpler, but they’ve gotten so complicated that they are not worth the trouble. With all of the “pointing and clicking” and “dragging and dropping” you’re lucky if you can figure out where you are. Plus, you are constantly worrying about viruses, spam and freeze-ups. If this sounds familiar, we have great news for you. There is finally a computer that’s designed for simplicity and ease of use. It’s the WOW Computer, and it was designed with you in mind.

BY HENRY ADAMS

A

t The Florida Orchestra’s next Tampa Bay Times Masterworks concert, guest conductor Julian Kuerti will be joined by French cello virtuoso Xavier Phillips for Prokofiev’s landmark cello work Sinfonia Concertante.

This program also includes Schubert’s majestic Symphony No. 9, The Great.

Concerts are Dec. 7, 8 and 9 in Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater.

Conductor Stuart Malina sets a seasonal mood at the next morning Coffee Concert, “Winter Wonderland,” with Vaughan Williams’ Fantasia on Green Sleeves, Rimsky-Korsakov’s The Snow Maiden Suite, Mozart’s “Sleigh Ride” from Three German Dances and music from Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker, together with works

by Bizet, Delius, Prokofiev and Hum-

perdinck. Concertgoers enjoy complimentary coffee and doughnuts prior to the concert.

Dec. 20 at the Progress Energy Center for the Arts – Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg.

A long-standing tradition in Tampa Bay is celebrating the season at the Raymond James Pops’ “Holiday Pops” concert. Conductor Stuart Malina and the orchestra are joined by the 150 voices of The Master Chorale and vocalist Hilary Kole in this festive concert for the entire family. Concertgoers are invited to bring canned food donations for Tampa Bay Harvest’s food bank. Four performances over Dec. 21, 22 and 23 in Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater, which include both 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. concerts at the Mahaffey Theater.

Tickets and info: floridaorchestra.org; (727) 892-3337 or 1-800-662-7286.

Join The Florida Orchestra for

Music in the Mornings at one of our Coffee Concerts!

2012/2013 Season

© Thomas Bruce Studio

The Florida Orchestra Celebrates the Holiday Season in December

Coffee Concerts

Winter Wonderland Stuart Malina leads the orchestra in a holiday themed program with Vaughan Williams’ Fantasia on Green Sleeves, Rimsky-Korsakov’s The Snow Maiden Suite, Mozart’s “Sleigh Ride” from Three German Dances and music from Sponsored by: Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker.

Thu, Dec 20, 11am

Progress Energy Center for the Arts Mahaffey Theater

Coffee Concerts

Symphonic Shakespeare Enjoy complimentary coffee and doughnuts with Stuart Malina leading the orchestra in a program of Beethoven’s Coriolan Overture and music from Mendelssohn’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Nicolai’s Merry Wives of Windsor, among other works.

Thurs, Jan 3, 11am

Progress Energy Center for the Arts Mahaffey Theater

Sponsored by:

© Alan Wycheck

727.892.3337 or www.FloridaOrchestra.org For group savings (10 or more) : 727.362.5443 TFO-Lifestyle50-Dec.indd 1

Lifestyles After 50 • December 2012 • page 35 11/6/2012 5:01:10 PM

Seniors Getting Together

WOMEN SEEKING MEN

4119 SEEKING CHRISTIAN GENTLEMAN Former airline stewardess and model, 5’4”, 104 lbs., widow, slender, white with Ph.D. in healthcare. Fulbright scholar, eats healthy and exercises. Likes sports and animals. Loves the Lord. Florida.

4178 SEEKING COMPATIBLE GENTLEMAN 55+ I’m 5’4”, 120, ISO sincere, NS, ND, understanding, FF and companion. I walk, read, sight-see, relax, music. HWP, picture.

Looking for romance. Pasco County.

4194 ISO EASYGOING, FIT BILINGUAL, financially able to take me dancing, traveling and many other things we may like to do together. I’m tall, slender, older than 60 but young at heart. Very active.

4196 WOMAN SEEKING MAN W, WW, in good health, 70 – 79, HWP, SOH, loves fun times, ISO travel partner, cruises, day trips, movies, dining, dancing, NS, ND. Photo appreciated, has transportation. Brandon.

4198 LOOKING FOR LAST LOVE 70, slim, NS, ND (wine occasionally).

NDrg. Blond, blue eyes, 5’ 5”, 140 lbs. wish for LTR gentleman of about same age to 75, LTR. Largo.

4200 NORTH PINELLAS C, F, W, WW, R, NS, ND, NDrg, petite, attractive, energetic, creative, enjoy learning, economically minded, health conscious, ISO friendship and companionship.

MEN SEEKING WOMEN 4179 SEEKING MY LAST LOVE Financially secure, in-shape 68 year old widower seeking my last love. Slim lady to share my life. Photo and bio appreciated. Will answer all. Leesburg.

4187 LETS TALK W, M, D, 70, 6’, 190, healthy, exercise, NS, ND, NDrg. You are attractive, slender or petite lady, W, S, NS, ND, NDrg. 4193 GENTLEMAN, W, D, ISO LADIES who do not have children and are D, WW, S, W, NS, ND, NDrg, to start a group for people without children.

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Blue eyes, between 55 – 65 years. (If you have a disabled child, that is ok.)

LTR in St. Petersburg. Photo + Bio. 4204 PINELLAS COUNTY W, M, 58, 5’9”, 160, ISO female, 58 to 65, HWP, NS, looking for laidback woman, fishing, beach, taking day trips, looking for romance too. Send photo, letter. Madeira Beach.

MEET OTHER SENIORS Over 2,000 seniors have met through Seniors Getting Together.

Send in your ad today!

Commonly Used Abbreviations: F-Female, M-Male, S-Single, D-Divorced, WWWidow, A-Asian, B-Black, H-Hispanic, I-Indian, W-White, C-Christian, J-Jewish, YO-Years Old, YY-Years Young, ISO-In Search Of, SOHSense Of Humor, SM-Smokes, S-Light Smoker, NS-Non Smoker, ND-Non Drinker, SD-Social (Light) Drinker, DR-Drinks, NDrg- No Drugs, LTR-Long Term Relationship, HWP-Height & Weight Proportional, R-Retired, P-Professional, FF-Friendship First, TLC-Tender Loving Care.

Mark The Edition(s) You Would Like To Run Your Ad In: Hillsborough & Suncoast (Pinellas/Pasco) Lake/Marion Counties Southwest/Charlotte (Fort Myers/Port Charlotte)

Ad Copy • Please Print Neatly • 30 Word Limit

Title (First 4 Words):

If more room is needed, please use separate sheet. Mail this form along with $6 for each ad per month (add $4 for each additional edition/market in the same month).

We cannot accept your ad without it. This information is confidential.

Name: Address: City: Phone:

State: E-mail:

Zip:

MAIL TO: ATTN. / SENIORS GETTING TOGETHER, NEWS CONNECTION, USA, INC. • P.O. BOX 638., SEFFNER, FL 33583

Lifestyles After 50 • December 2012 • page 36

TO PLACE AN AD

Send your ad, stating what category you would like it placed in, your edition(s), along with a $6 fee for 30 words (25¢ for each additional word, abbreviations not charged) to the News Connection USA, Inc. address listed above. Ads received by the 15th of the month will appear in the following issue. No more than three ads will be accepted each month per person. The editor reserves the right to edit any ads for space or content. In order to protect our readers’ privacy, we will not include phone numbers, e-mail or home addresses in the ad copy. City or area included at no charge.

Getting the Most for Your Travel Dollar

Only $6 to place an ad!

City (No Charge):

TO RESPOND TO AN AD

Write a letter to the person you want to contact. Place that letter in a stamped envelope and write the ad number on the bottom left hand side of the envelope. Place your stamped, numbered envelope(s), along with $2 for each letter enclosed, into another envelope and address it to: News Connection USA, Inc. Seniors Getting Together 1602 S. Parsons Ave.,Seffner, FL. 33584

A

s prices for flights go up, getting the most for your travel dollar becomes a challenge.

Looking around online may be time consuming but dollarwise.

Flight prices can vary significantly depending on the day or time of departure, so being truly flexible with travel dates and time of booking is the best way for consumers to reap financial benefits, according to

CheapFlightsFinder.com, which compares up to 16 flight comparison sites.

It stands to reason that Fridays and Sunday evenings are popular times for people to fly because weekend travelers want to maximize the period they are away without having extra days off work. Therefore, flying on these days will often be the most expensive, but in fact no day should be ruled out if the maximum saving is to be made. Wednesday is usually the cheapest day of the week to fly, followed by Tuesday.

When booking any flight, the more flexible you can be, the more likely it is that a savings can be made; this often includes repeating searches as costs can go up and down, day to day, just as exchange rates do.

Information from CheapFlightsFinder.com.

Last Month’s Answers

Last Month’s Winner Is Linda Taylor Congratulations!

Enter to Win!

Walgreens now offers the Zostavax vaccine for shingles at all of its locations!

If you’ve ever had Chicken Pox, ask your Walgreens Pharmacist about the Zostavax vaccine recommended for those 50 years and older to help prevent shingles.

This month’s winner is

Enter To Win!

Our Pharmacies Offer Services and Programs that Save You Time and Money! Inquire About:

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Last Month’s Answers

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Our “Go 90” Program - 3 prescription refills in one and for 3 months you’re done!

Our Prescriptions Savings Club - Members get special discounts off the cash price of thousands of brand-name and generic medications as well as numerous other benefits when they use their card throughout the store.

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Walgreens accepts most major prescription plans, including: CVS Caremark, United Healthcare and Blue Cross Blue Shield Florida!

For the Walgreens Store Nearest You Call

FILL IN ANSWERS & WIN MONEY!

1-800-WALGREENS

Send your answers for a drawing. First correct answers selected from the drawing on Dec. 19 will receive $20 cash!

Send to: News Connection USA, Inc., P.O. Box 638, Seffner, FL 33583

I want information on: Travel / Cruises Recreation / Leisure Entertainment / Events

Insurance Elder Law / Financial Housing Options Reverse Mortgages

(1-800-925-4733) or visit us on-line at: www.walgreens.com

Personal Health & Fitness Home Improvements Automobiles

Hot! Hot! Just off the Press

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• Local and World News • All Your Favorite Events

• Great Stories & Information • Travel, Finance, Health & More!

Lifestyles After 50 • December 2012 • page 37

Lifestyles After 50 • December 2012 • page 38

&

Mr. Modem

by Richard Sherman Is there a way of converting a PDF file into a standard Word Document?

Yes, there sure is. I use the free online PDF to Word (www. pdftoword.com) converter. It’s self explanatory and very easy to use: You browse to and select the PDF file you want to convert, provide your email address, and the converted DOC file will be emailed to you. For users who need to convert Word DOC files to PDF format, it will probably come as no surprise that there is also a free Word to PDF converter, located at www.wordtopdf.com.

American Legion Hall

BINGO

Convert PDF Files to Word Format How can I enlarge my Quick Launch bar buttons? I’m using Windows XP and my aging vision needs more assistance. I have a large screen, but I need larger buttons. Help!

We can relate and by “we,” I am referring to my trifocals and me.

You can definitely enlarge the Quick Launch buttons. In fact, you have a vast selection of sizes to choose from ranging from Small to Large. On second thought, that IS the vast selection, Small or Large.

Once you have mulled the choices over and made a decision, right click an empty area of the Quick Launch bar (to the right of the last icon that appears, for example), then select View > Large Icons. The icons will instantly enlarge to a much more reasonable size, if you ask me. You do not have to restart your computer for this change to take effect.

What is the difference between Google Earth and Google Maps?

Besides the spelling (I couldn’t resist), Google Earth (www. google.com/earth) presents a phenomenal airborne view of the planet from which you can zoom in—like you’re free falling from outer space—to an address or other selected location.

If you want to see Google Earth in action without actually installing it, go to YouTube.com and search for “Google Earth.” There are lots of Google Earth videos that will demonstrate how it works and how it zooms in using satellite photography.

Google Maps provides road maps from which you can obtain driving directions, for example. It’s web-based, so there is nothing to install. The best way to get a handle on it is to simply visit Google Maps at www.google. com/maps, and have fun exploring.

Mr. Modem’s DME (Don’t Miss ‘Em) Sites of the Month Geni.com: Geni is a free genealogy

service that enables families to learn about their ancestry and discover new relatives. More than 100 million people have created their respective family trees and are sharing photos, videos and documents by inviting relatives to join the collaboration.

Geni.com is browser based, so there is no software to install. Simply click a person’s profile in the tree, then edit, add or delete information as you go. The Basic plan lets you add up to 100 people and offers 1GB of storage for photos, documents, and videos. Plus and Pro plans, which offer more features and storage, are available for a monthly fee. www.geni.com.

For more information about Mr. Modem’s technology tips eBooks and award winning weekly computer help newsletter, featuring his personal answers to your questions by email, visit www.MrModem.com.

(SENIOR WIRE)

Post 26

Plant City, FL Baker & Woodrow Wilson

Every Sat. night 6:30 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Public Welcome

(813) 752-8608

$2 OFF for

seniors

Unique Vacation Hotel for Cats Only! ✦ Featured on Nationwide TV ✦ Reasonable rates ✦ Huge windows on tropical gardens ✦ Vet on call ✦ Soft music, lots of loving & petting

15501 Boyette Rd. Riverview

Come meet “Winter” the dolphin who lost her tail in a crab trap, now swims freely.

Senior $2offAdmission

(55+)

Good forGood up to Not Not valid with other for6uppeople. to 6 people. valid with otheroffers. offers.

ExpiresDecember December 31, Code XSCA Expires 31,2011.

2012.

Code XSCA

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Clearwater Marine Aquarium 249 Windward Passage • Clearwater, FL 33767

(727) 441-1790

www.SeeWinter.com Lifestyles After 50 • December 2012 • page 39

Your Plan Humana $0 monthly Plan Premium Doctor’s office visits and hospital coverage Prescription drug coverage Convenient mail-order delivery of prescriptions Fitness program – gym membership at no additional cost Unlimited rides to your doctors or gym+ Dental, Vision and Hearing coverage Preventive coverage

Give your Medicare plan its annual checkup!

24-hour nurse advice line Over-the-counter medication benefit Wellness program Emergency coverage at home and when you travel And more we haven’t listed!

To find out if a Humana plan is right for you, call to schedule an in-home appointment or to find a neighborhood meeting.

1-800-421-7870 (TTY: 711) 8 a.m. – 8 p.m., 7 days a week Compare your current plan with Humana Gold Plus® (HMO).

You’ll find that Humana may give you the benefits you really want.

With more than 50 years of healthcare experience, you can count on Humana to help you get more of the benefits you want in a Medicare plan.

DON’T FORGET! The Medicare Advantage annual enrollment dates are Oct. 15 – Dec. 7.*

Humana is a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract. You must continue to pay your Medicare Part B Premium. If you are a member of a qualified State Pharmaceutical Assistance Program, please contact the program to verify that the mail-order pharmacy will coordinate with that program.

The benefit information provided here is a brief summary, but not a comprehensive description. For more information contact the plan. Limitations, copayments, and restrictions may apply. A sales person will be present with information and applications. For accommodation of persons with special needs at sales meetings, call 1-800-421-7870 (TTY: 711), 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week. Applicable to Humana Gold Plus® (HMO) plans: H1036-025, 040, 052, 054, 067, and 164. *Medicare beneficiaries may enroll in the plan only during specific times of the year. Contact Humana for more information. +Transportation to plan-approved locations, some limitations and restrictions may apply.

H1036_GHHHB51HH CMS Accepted

TMP 12/12