Senior Connection - Hillsborough July, 2011 edition by Lifestyles After 50 Magazine

Happy Birthday Marilyn Monroe VOLUME 22, NUMBER 7

om c . e b we zin r u a i t o ag s i V rm .s w w ea s it

Fun Close to Home

• Housing Choices for Boomers • Ready, Set...Senior Games • Caregivers Must-Have List • Fido Goes to Figi

HILLSBOROUGH

JULY 2011

Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah-ing Over Gators and Crocs

watched assistants strap David in and do their safety check. I heard “Just take two or three steps and sit down.” hen the grandkids Imagine the scene. He was come, it may be standing harnessed and attached time for you to clip in and to the cable at the top of a ten-foot “zip” off with them on the square bright green platform which all-new Screamin’ Gator Janice Doyle, was tilted at a 30 degree angle. Zip Line at Gatorland in Editor Across the lower edge of said tilted Kissimmee. Even without platform there was nothing but air grandkids, zipping along at 25 miles and tree tops. Without a backward per hour through tree tops sounds look, he took two steps, sat down pretty cool. Or . . . downright stupid? I’m not one to miss a new adventure, in his harness and . . . off he went. Then I was at the top of the green so off my husband David and I went. tilted platform being safety inspected With tree tops and gators and big by Josh as he hooked my own harness crocodiles below, we did indeed straps and carabiners to the pulley. zip line 1,200 feet between towers I said to myself, “They wouldn’t which stand several stories tall. let you up here if wasn’t safe.” Zip lines owners take perfectly good “Take two steps and sit down,” money from people willing to be Josh said. I couldn’t retreat—going thrust off into thin air. That’s the economics. Here’s the physics: You move back down the steps would be too hard on my knees. So, two steps forward by gravity while wearing a down a platform with nothing to stop harness that is attached by belts and a me and I sat down in the harness. pulley to steel cables strung between It was awesome! I soared over tree towers. But it’s way more than an tops to Tower Two. Next I zipped economics and physics lesson!! over a pool where 30 gators sunned I first smelled trouble when we themselves. Then it was on to “de climbed several flights of wooden Nile” over gigantic African crocodiles. stairs to get to the top of the tower The highest and longest section of for launching. The second clue to cable traverses Gatorland’s breeding the truth of the situation was when I

Dear Readers,

built in Belfast as an awe-inspiring man-made structure. The new building and visitor attraction is ast month I visited being built right beside the Northern Ireland, birthhistoric site of the actual place of my grandparents Titanic’s construction. The on my father’s side. Finding six-story building is shaped St. Malchys in the heart like three ship’s bows and of Belfast—the church will comprise nine galleries where my grandmother was which focus on the educabaptized in 1877—made tion of the social history, the Irish in me feel real. industrial development I thought of the hardships and engineering advanceshe and her family went ments then and now. through and what hopes Publisher, Kathy Beck, The new museum will they had for coming to outside of St. Malchy’s. open in April 2012. America in the early 1900s. I am proud of my Irish heritage It made me think about our freedom and that more people will have the and what our ancestors endured for us opportunity to visit this new attraction to have a better life here in America. The city of Belfast with its rich histo- and learn more about Belfast and ry is opening the doors for a new icon, Northern Ireland. I feel lucky! To learn more about “Titanic Belfast,” the “Titanic Belfast.” It is a tribute to go to www.gotobelfast.com. 100 years ago when the Titanic was

Finding My Heritage

Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 2

Hillsborough, Pinellas/Pasco Published monthly by News Connection U.S.A., Inc.

David Lalmond and Janice Doyle soar over the treetops.

marsh. My calm abandoned me temporarily when I took the first of 83 carefully counted steps over a bridge connecting towers 4 and 5. Feet on two narrow boards, hands on cables on both sides and safety strap linked to a cable above. Finally (when I wasn’t scared any more) David and I were connected to parallel cables to “race” to the last tower over a peaceful pond with nary a gator is in sight. Luke, the zip line expert who trained the adventure staff, said, “The oldest person I’ve ever taken on a zip line was 86. We take care of the safety, but we can’t create the desire. That has to come with the person.” You decide for yourself. Are you willing to hook yourself to a pulley on a cable suspended in mid-air and hurtle safely out into space? If your answer is yes, and if you’re willing to pay a perfectly good $70 for the thrill of being so hurtled, put in your reservation at gatorland. com or call 800-393-JAWS. Look at it this way. It’s truly a grand adventure, and if nothing else, your grandkids will think you’re the coolest thing going!

Publisher, President: Kathy J. Beck kathy@srmagazine.com Editor: Janice Doyle Accounting: Vicki Willis Production Supervisor Graphic Design: Kim Burrell Production Assistant: Tracie Schmidt Customer Service: 1-888-670-0040 customerservice@srmagazine.com Advertising Sales: Hillsborough/Pinellas 1-888-670-0040 Tampa Bay Area Dena Bingham: (813) 653-1988 Pinellas/Pasco Judy Floyd: (727) 678-0315 Chuck Bingham: (813) 293-1550 Sun City Center Judy Coleman: (813) 653-1988 Distribution 1-888-670-0040 Corporate Advertising Ofﬁce: P.O. Box 638 Seffner, Florida 33583-0638

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Lee/Collier and Charlotte Counties: Southwest Edition Sarasota/Manatee Counties: Sarasota Edition

Lake/Marion Counties: Lake Edition

hare your memories of Elvis in 50 words or less. Send (with subject line: Elvis) to Janice@srmagazine.com or to News Connection USA, Inc., P.O. Box 638, Seffner, FL 33583.

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ATTENTION READERS: The articles printed in Senior Connection and Mature Lifestyles do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the Editor or the staff. The Senior Connection/ Mature Lifestyles endeavors to accept reliable advertising; however we cannot be held responsible by the public for advertising claims. Senior Connection/ Mature Lifestyles reserves the right to refuse or discontinue any advertisement. Our advertising deadline for the August 2011 issue is July 15, 2011. Magazines are out by the 7th of each month. All rights reserved.

Senior Artists Shine

or more than 30 years, the Hillsborough County Department of Aging Services has sponsored the Senior Painting and Craft Festival in recognition and appreciation of the skill, creativity and commitment of seniors in the community. There were 85 entries in this year’s event. Five winners were selected from each category. Senior Connection sponsored $700 in cash prizes awarded to the artists. Lynn Norton, Director of Education for the Arts Council, judged both paintings and crafts. Congratulations to the winners: Painting: People’s Choice Award: Marie Schadt First Place: Dee DeVane Second Place: Robert Malcolm Third Place: Marie Schadt Honorable Mention: Louise Anders Crafts: People’s Choice Award: Shirley McKee First Place: Robert Messer Second Place: Kay Seymour Third Place: Kitty Champagne Honorable Mention: May Glass

People’s Choice Award winner Marie Schadt with her painting, “Almost Sundown.” Special thanks to the University Area Community Development Corporation, Hillsborough County Parks and Recreation, and the Arts Council of Hillsborough County for furthering opportunities for seniors to participate in our community. To learn more about Hillsborough County Aging services, please call (813) 272-5160.

The Luggie Scooter Anywhere, Anyplace, Anytime.

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www.luggie-scooters.com Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 3

Marilyn Monroe Tells Her Story BY TRACIE SCHMIDT

ears ago, she serenaded the President; now it’s her turn. Marilyn Monroe—actress, singer, model—would have celebrated her 85th birthday last month. While the pop-culture icon quickly rose to fame and spent most of her adult life in the limelight, her personal life was very different from her screen persona. Affected by a troubled childhood, she yearned to be accepted for who she was. The events that led up to her untimely death at 36—suicide or accidental overdose—are still a mystery. But if she could come back for one more night, what would she say to her audience? Marilyn: Forever Blonde is an award-winning one-woman play that gives Monroe the chance to tell her story in her own words. Actress Sunny Thompson takes on the role, and with music and quotes from the

actress’ life, brings the As an acting project it star back for an intimate interested Thompson, but evening on stage. she was hesitant to play the “It’s a real rollercoaster role herself. “What woman ride,” says Thompson, in her right mind would “There’s comedy, little want to be compared with serious observations, Marilyn Monroe!” she said. poignant things, ‘aha’ Nonetheless, her performoments—the whole mance and her uncanny thing is really a gift for resemblance to the famous an actress to play.” actress made her a shoo-in for Sunny Thompson’s the part. I asked her what it first experience with took to prepare for the role. Monroe was seeing “I spent 14 months in her movies as a child. research,” she said. “Every “I loved all musicals, person that comes up in the not just Marilyn’s— play—Joe DiMaggio, for Actress Sunny Thompson there was Fred Astaire, example—you have to know as Marilyn Monroe. Ginger Rogers—all of your relationship to them.” those I loved, and that was my first All of Monroe’s mannerisms, from the experience with her,” she remembered. way she walked and spoke to the way Thompson was a singer and dancer she dressed and did her makeup—had in Las Vegas when her husband came to be spot-on. Thompson even sought to her with the script for the show, coaching by Jimmy James, a famous asking her to read a few scenes. Monroe impersonator from New York.

Taking on the personality of Monroe was another challenge. “She went from high to low in a second. She’d say something like, ‘Gosh, it’s wonderful isn’t it?’ then, “Life’s just a chore.” She’d go from zero to 90 just like that—and you see it in her movies and in her acting,” Thompson said. Thompson revealed two sides to Monroe; she was terrified of fame, but at the same time, believed that if she could become the most famous woman in the world, she could have the love and affection that she so craved. I asked Thompson what struck her most about the actress. “How terribly funny she was,” she replied. “She could be depressed, but she always saw the bright side of things. Very much so—and she needed to laugh—it was a survival thing for her.” Marilyn: Forever Blonde is playing at the Asolo Theatre in Sarasota through July 10. For tickets or more information, call (941) 351-9010.

Anywhere Tours of Florida, Inc. For reservations or information call Tonya at 813-620-3332 or website • www.tampabus.com IF YOU HAVE TEN PEOPLE OR MORE WE CAN PICK UP AT YOUR LOCATION. WE PICK UP AT THE LIBRARY ON NORTH PEBBLE BEACH, SUN CITY CENTER.

July 5, 19, & 26, Seminole Hardrock Casino -Tampa

(must have min 30 people) pay 15.00 per person - get 20.00 free play & 5.00 meal voucher pick up 8:45 am return 3:30 pm or pick up 4:15 pm return 10:30 pm.

July 11 & 22, Seminole Hardrock Casino - Immokalee

(must have min of 30 people) pay 25.00 per person - get 30.00 free play & 5.00 meal voucher pick up 8:00 am - returns 5:30 pm.

July 28, Tour of Tampa - given by Tampa native Wayne

Thyner pay 24.95 - see Tampa/Ybor City. 5 hour tour, lunch on your own at one of Ybor restaurants. Pick up at 9 am return 4 pm. Five hour tours - see places you may never see on your own. Thank You ...From All Of Us At Anywhere Tours of Florida. Call for details, all prices subject to change.

Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 4

Around Town

From the producers of Menopause The Musical ®

W H AT ’ S H A P P E N I N G J U LY 2 0 1 1

hrough summer “Henry Plant— King of Florida” exhibit outlines the secrets to Mr. Plant’s success and his vision, accomplishments and legacy. Henry B. Plant Museum, 401 W. Kennedy Blvd. $7/seniors. Phone (813) 254-1891 for information.

hrough Oct. 12 “Women of Ybor—125 Years of Influence” Museum Exhibit at Ybor City Museum. A historical narrative of Ybor City with the female perspective. $4 admission. 1818 East 9th Ave., Tampa. (813) 247-6323.

Take the grandkids to Kids Ahoy! Aboard the American Victory Museum Ship. Ship-wide scavenger hunt, arts and crafts project, snack and souvenir. Every Sat. 705 Channelside Dr. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (813) 228-8766.

– 17 Mamma Mia! Broadway musical at the Straz Center in downtown Tampa. Tickets start at $38.50. Online at strazcenter. org or phone (813) 229-7827.

AARP driving classes at Bruton Library, 302 McLendon St., Plant City 10:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Registration: (813) 757-9215.

“Ghosts of the Grey Lady” presented by Tampa Ghost Watchers. 9 p.m. to midnight aboard the American Victory Ship. 9 to 9:45 p.m. followed by time to roam the ship and maybe spot a ghost. $20/adults and $15/ seniors.Tickets at ghostseminars. com, (813) 228-8766 or aboard ship. 705 Channelside Drive.

Tampa Elvis Festival/Contest: a celebration of the King’s music. Elvis events scheduled from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Elvis tribute artists, Elvis memorabilia, food vendors, music/shows all day. At the All People’s Life Center, 6105 E. Sligh

Ave. Information at ElvisTampaTCB. com or e-mail elvistampatcb@yahoo. com. Elvis hotline: (813) 977-6011.

National Ice Cream Day with BlueBell Ice Cream at MOSI. 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Sample Ice Cream. Ice cream eating competition. 4801 Fowler Ave.,Tampa. (813) 987-6300.

$5 Day at Lowry Park Zoo. 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Free parking (offsite shuttle provided). Visit LowryParkZoo.com.

By Sue Fabisch

“riotous and perceptive … genuine, heartfelt” — The Tampa Tribune

“brings roars of recognition about a job that never ends” — St. Petersburg Times

– 27 “Murder on Budget Cruise Lines” Mystery Dinner Show at Spaghetti Warehouse in Ybor City, 1911 N. 13th St., Tampa. $29.95/dinner and show. Info: (813) 248-1720.

“Frankly Sinatra & Friends” dinner dance evening presented by Don Juceam and The Don Juceam Orchestra. Italian dinner. Free parking. Cash bar. Pepin’s Hospitality Centre. $49.95 per single; $89.95 per couple. 7 p.m. to midnight. (813) 600-3134. Send Around Town news to Senior Connection Magazine, 1602 S. Parsons Ave., Seffner, FL 33584; fax (813) 651-1989. News must be received by the 10th of the month prior to event (i.e. July 10 for August event.)

Dragon Boat Races Volunteers Needed

Visitors from over 30 countries will be in Tampa August 2 – 7 for the IDBF World Dragon Boat Racing Championship, 500 community volunteers are needed. Many opportunites are available. Uniforms, lunch on working days and complimentary parking provided. Visit TampaBayDragonBoats.com. Register at (239) 574-0575.

NOW PLAYING!

JAEB THEATER Tickets: 813.229.STAR (7827) STRAZCENTER.ORG

Group Services (10+ get a discount): 813.222.1018 Events, days, dates, times, performers and prices are subject to change without notice. (L to R) Jayne Trinette, Angela Bond, Juliana Black and Becca McCoy, 2011 ©Rob/Harris

Motherhood and Mama Mia! Bring Summer Fun to the Stage

rab your daughters and girlfriends and see Motherhood the Musical playing through July 17 at the Straz Center in Tampa. It’s a laugh out loud stage presentation as three experienced mothers bring a very pregnant neighbor up-to-date on motherhood. In the style of Menopause, the Musical, story and song mix to convey a message—that motherhood is for life. Two favorite songs, originals for this

play, emerge: “Costco Queen” and a very tender “I’m Danny’s Mom.” Coming July 12 – 17 to the Straz is the rousing Mama Mia! The return of this musical gives the Tampa area one more reason to sing “Dancing Queen.” If you’ve resisted seeing it before, get out of the heat and indulge in this high energy soap opera-style plot of “Who’s the real father?” kicked into high gear for a fun wedding.

See The Movie Classics

uly is a good time to see these movie classics at the Tampa Theatre, 711 N. Franklin Street, Tampa. All shows at 3 p.m.

9 17

and 10 Casablanca (Humphrey Bogart, Ingrid Bergman).

Gone with the Wind (Vivien Leigh, Clark Gable, Leslie Howard, Olivia de Havilland, Hattie McDaniel).

23 31 A

and 24 Sing-a-long Wizard of Oz (Judy Garland, Margaret Hamilton, Ray Bolger, Burt Lahr, Jack Haley). African Queen (Katharine Hepburn, Humphrey Bogart).

ug. 3 Bringing up Baby (Katharine Hepburn, Cary Grant).

Tampa Theatre: One of the Top Ten Iconic Showplaces in the World—Delta Sky magazine. See tampatheatre.org or (813) 274-8287. Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 5

Freedom Plaza Sun City Center

Exceptional Experiences Every Day Freedom Plaza offers an active, maintenance-free lifestyle with a life Care benefit that includes Predicitable long-term Care Cost, if ever needed. more than half of Freedom Plaza residents are retired military or federal employees. With life experiences that have taken them across the country and around the globe, you will find one of the most diverse resident populations anywhere.

Call (813) 634-1824 or 1 (800) 678-7684 to schedule your complimentary luncheon & tour. A Life Care Community Exceptional Experiences Every DaySM 1010 american eagle Blvd., apt. 114 Sun City Center, Fl 33573 www.brookdaleliving.com

Bocce Ball court • Fitness • Movies • cluBs • Bridge dancing • dining • shopping • golF • travel • And More! Sponsored by the Retired Officers’ Corp. Open to folks from all walks of life. Exceptional Experiences Every Day is a Service Mark of Brookdale Senior Living Inc., Nashville, TN, USA. 51111EF-RES04-0411 LB

Help May Be Available For Paying Your Medicare Expenses

Help may be available for paying your healthcare costs including: prescription drug and medical copayments if: you’re a Florida resident and your gross monthly income is $922.50 or less (single) or $1,224.17 or less (married)* Humana Medicare Advantage Plans can help you cover your dental, hearing and vision costs if: - you’re turning 65 - you have recently moved - you’re a retiree who has lost your health coverage Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 6

Senior Friendly Fest!

ey Seniors! Join us for the 3rd annual Senior Friendly Fest, August 4, 2011 at the Sun City Community Hall, South Campus. This event will bring all the great things that our Fun Fests are known for, and more! Free admission! Free parking! A Senior Friendly lunch will be only $3.50, or bring your own lunch. Free coffee and goodies will be provided by our friends at Costco. Over 70 Senior Friendly exhibitors will provide information on services and programs in the area. Free health screenings will be offered throughout the day. Entertainment will include the popular Denise Looney, the “DJ with

a Twist,” Richie Merritt of the “Marcels,” and introducing Troy Coman, Bright House Networks Bright Star Finalist. Enjoy Luis of A-1 Magic with his magic and balloons. Of course there will be free Bingo, a putting green, bean bag toss and basketball throw for prizes. There will be chances to win $1,000 in prizes and giveaways throughout the day. Come on out... bring a friend and enjoy the day inside the airconditioned Community Hall, located at 1910 S. Pebble Beach Blvd., Sun City Center. Doors open at 9 a.m. and close at 2 p.m. Call (813) 653-1988 for information. See you there!

You’ll have the confidence of knowing it’s all backed by a company that has served in the healthcare community for 50 years. We’re here with a helping hand. Call today: TAMPA TGI Friday’s 2501 E. Fowler Ave. July 13th • 11:30 am

BRANDON Golden Corral 815 Providence Rd. July 19th • 2:00 pm

RUSKIN Ozzie’s Buffet 3074 College Ave. July 20th • 11:00 am

TAMPA Red Lobster 11601 N. Dale Mabry July 19th • 10:00 am

PLANT CITY Buddy Freddy’s 1101 Goldfinch Dr. July 21st • 10:00 am

1-800-304-3530 (TTY: 711) 8 a.m. to 2 a.m. EST, Monday – Friday

A Health plan with a Medicare contract. A sales person will be present with information and applications. For accommodations of persons with special needs at sales meetings, call 1-800-304-3530 (TTY: 711) 8 a.m. to 2 a.m. EST, Monday – Friday. *Other qualifications may apply. Must qualify for assistance. Y0040_GHHH2C2HH2 File & Use 06012011

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9 am to 2 pm SUN CITY CENTER Community Hall, South Campus 1910 South Pebble Beach Blvd. Sun City Center, FL 33573

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Denise Looney “DJ with a Twist” Singing and spinning your favorite tunes. Doo Wop by Richie Merritt, (The Marcels, The Clovers) Introducing Troy Coman Winner of Bright House Networks Senior Idol Finalist Magic & Balloon Art by Louis of A-1 Magic

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Information 813-653-1988 • Directions: 813-633-3500 • www.srmagazine.com Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 7

Military Retirees Provide a Helping Hand BY JANICE DOYLE

OAA lets officers—whether retired, active duty, reserve or National Guard—know that “We’ve got your back.” MOAA—Military Officers Association of America—as a national organization deals with issues such as pay, allowances, health care, pharmacy and TRICARE (the military’s health care program). Two local chapters, one in Tampa which meets at MacDill AFB and one in Sun City Center, support the national organization, but they also work extensively with local projects. Retired Navy Captain Frank Kepley says the Sun City Chapter has lunches and speakers, and that they provide scholarships and present awards to JROTC members in four area high schools. As a retired oral maxillary surgeon who worked in VA hospitals in Chicago and Tampa, Kepley recognizes

the importance of MOAA fighting for veterans eligible for care with service-related issues. As Congress promotes raising Tricare premiums for veterans, Kepley says, “We feel we paid our premiums by moving around with the service, being in harm’s way, etc.” That chapter as well as the 400+ member MOAA Tampa chapter pour financial and volunteer efforts into James A Haley VA The Sun City Center MOAA Chapter awarded Hospital’s Operation Helping Sarah Heyl a $2,000 scholarship. (L to R) Hand and Fisher House. Brigadier General, Royal Marines, retired Operation Helping Hand (OpHH) Colin Howgill, Sarah Heyl and Sun City was formed to provide assistance MOAA President Major, U.S. Air Force, retired and support for the families of Kirk Faryniasz. (Photo courtesy of MFST) active duty wounded and injured. Hand-in-hand with OpHH is the As the wounded come to Haley local Fisher House which both Veterans Hospital (one of five VA MOAA chapters also support. Fisher poly-trauma centers in the U.S.), they House Foundation donates “comfort must often stay from a few weeks homes,” built on the grounds of major or months to over a year. OpHH’s military and VA medical centers to help includes paying airfare for house family members to be close family members to come to Tampa, to a loved one who is injured. gasoline coupons, rental cars, etc.

Neuropathy & Other Foot Problems? Yes, You Can Feel Great About Your Feet Again! We Have Your Treatment Plan

BRANDON HEARING CENTERS You’ll hear the difference!

Patty takes pride in her service to the community, celebrating more than 45 years in Brandon and Sun City Center.

New Location & Expanded Hours

Dr. Bonnie Sanchez

Bunions Heel Spurs Come See Orthotics My New Neuropathy Office Hammertoes Tendon Strain Plantar Fasciitis Ugly/Painful Toenails Diabetic Footcare & Shoes

Why suffer any longer? Come see us, your gentle touch Doctor of Podiatry.

Call to see the Doctor (727) 824-5100 or (813) 645-1993 Medicare, United healthcare, Blue Cross/Blue Shield and Other Insurance

Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 8

Donald Dvornik, a retired Navy public affairs officer and a vice president for the Tampa MOAA chapter, says, “Our chapter holds a monthly dinner right in the spinal cord injury center (at James A. Haley VA Hospital) for incoming wounded injured in Afghanistan and Iraq. They come with their families from other parts of U.S. This has become a real focus for our chapter.” Since there’s a huge turnover among the patients, the MOAA group present bouquets of roses to spouses or mothers as well as goodie bags which include gift cards to help with expenses while they’re here. “We want to tell them we’re there to help,” Dvornik says. It’s all a part of telling a fellow military member that “we’re covering your back.” For information about the Tampa Chapter of MOAA, call (813) 9682835 or online at moaatampa.org. For information about the Sun City Center chapter, call (813) 642-0801.

Patty Paddock, BC-HIS Best of Brandon & South Shore 2007-2010 “We work together to ﬁnd the best Hearing Aid for your need.” –Patty Paddock

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Veterans Corner

HOME LIGHTINGBreakthrough

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or 25 years, the National Disabled Veterans Winter Sport Clinic has been helping Veterans find adventure in the mountains of Colorado. And for 25 years, Florida resident Clinton Hale has experienced it. Hale, 62, has been a participant in the Winter Sports Clinic every year since its inception in 1987. “Early on it was just a few of us…maybe 50. Now, it’s huge!” he says. Hale makes the journey to Snowmass from Florida each year, eagerly waiting his turn to hit the slopes. He’s learned a lot during his various Clinics, like the wisdom of waiting inside where it’s warm instead of standing in line in the snow for his gear. When it comes to ski equipment, he prefers the monoski because “it looks cool,” but for him, the trip to the mountains each year isn’t just about the skiing. “When I come here, I make it a goal to impart some of the lessons I learned in life to some of the new guys,” he says. “And I learn from them, too. They know things that I’m still trying to figure out.” He certainly has some life lessons to offer. Hale entered the Air Force as a Combat Controller in 1966, and in 1983, he injured his back while on a training exercise. “Life has inherent risks. You just deal with them as they come.” At an event with participants whose military service spans from World War II to the current conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, “new guys” doesn’t just mean “young guys” at the Winter Sports Clinic. One first-timer is Frank Kozel, an 88 year-old WWII Veteran. Kozel, who was injured on a reconnaissance mission during the War, made the trip from Cleveland. Some might

question why an 88 year-old would strap himself into a ski apparatus and hurl himself down a mountain. Kozel’s answer is simple: “I believe that every day, you should do something that you fear—it keeps you young.” The Winter Sports Clinic has been a source of motivation and encouragement for both Kozel and Hale. “My first trip here, I learned that I can do anything I set my mind to do,” said Hale. For him, that means working, staying active and helping to raise funds for his Florida team to come each year.

Veteran Clinton Hale on a sit-ski.

That also means skiing with a broken leg. “I broke it trying to ski on my own the first year that the Winter Sports Clinic was at Snowmass,” he says with a laugh. “They put a cast on it and I was skiing again the next day.” The Winter Sports Clinic has seen many changes over the years. And after 25 years, what’s the best thing about the Winter Sports Clinic? “The camaraderie,” says Hale without hesitation. “I have developed some great friendships. I love to see some of the old-timers and make new friends. It’s like a family here, it really is.” That’s what keeps Hale coming back, and what drives him to spread the word to other veterans who are eligible to attend. His message to them is simple: “Get out here! You just don’t know what you’re missing. It’s the best event that VA has.”

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Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 9

Patriotic Duo Brings Betsy Ross and Ben Franklin Back To Life BY BILL STOKES

merican heroes Benjamin Franklin and Betsy Ross never lived together, but their present-day impersonators do. Tavares residents Jeffry Gay and his wife, Connie, met at a high school drama festival in Massachusetts, again the next year at Salem College in Massachusetts and married six years later. They moved to Central Florida and their signature show, MurderWatch Mystery Theatre, was produced at Walt Disney World for 20 years. The couple’s business, Dreamland Productions, is a traveling theatrical troupe that interacts with dinner theatre or various group audiences far and wide. Several years ago, Jeffry looked at himself in the bathroom mirror and exclaimed in horror, “God, I’m getting old! I look like Benjamin Franklin!“ Voila—the character was born! Now, Jeffry transforms himself in one-man performances into the printer, inventor and statesman. His wife, Connie, produces “Tea with Betsy Ross” in her own solo program as the legendary flag maker. She runs music and sound effects for Jeff’s appearances; he is at the board when Connie is the performer. In a matinee enjoyed recently at Lakes of Leesburg, B. Franklin circulated among his audience of 100 residents, chronicling his life, family, friends and enemies made throughout his 84 years. Humor, drama and poignancy unquestionably brought Jeffry’s rendition of B. Franklin’s humanity home to his audience. Perhaps best known for his experiments with the nature of electricity, B. Franklin also invented swim fins, medical catheters and, in 1736, organized Philadelphia’s first volunteer fire department. Franklin also invented a more heat-efficient Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 10

stove (named after him) and because he felt it would help improve society, refused to accept a patent. Moreover, he promoted environmental improvements and published – Born Boston, Jan. 17, 1706. “Poor Richard’s – At 12, apprenticed in brother’s Almanac” under printing shop. an assumed name. – Wrote first article for brother’s newspaper, Mr. Franklin signed it “Mistress Silence Dogwood.” served in such au– Opens own printing shop in Philadelphia. gust political bodies – Married Deborah Read; starts “fire insurance” program. as the Second Con– Writes and publishes “Poor Richard’s Almanac.” tinental Congress. – Invents Franklin stove which works better He was ambassador than fireplaces to heat homes. to France, helped – Begins experiments with electricity. Invents lightning draft the Declaration of Independence and rod to protect homes from catching fire. was one of its signers. In 1790, only two – Becomes postmaster for all 13 colonies. Invents months before his death, he wrote a treaodometer to measure distance between routes. tise advocating the abolition of slavery. – Helps write the Declaration of Independence. Jeffry Gay as Jeff as Ben Franklin scattered laugh- Invents bifocals. Ben Franklin provoking zingers throughout his talk, – Helps write the U.S. Constitution. (above) and notably in his explanation of inventing Connie Gay – Dies at 84; over 20,000 bifocal eyeglasses: “I was enjoying a as Betsy Ross people attend his funeral. book during a voyage to England. My (bottom right). Source: AAA Going Places mission was to represent Pennsylvania /March-April in its fight with descendants of the Penn Connie confesses family over who should represent the Colony. I found I couldn’t see the horizon she cries at points during her interpretation of Betsy Ross, without changing my spectacles. Think“and,” she said, “some of my audience sheds ing it would be easier to have two-lens eyeglasses—one for distance and another a tear, too.” Such is the degree to which this couple’s audiences become involved. for near sight—I invented bifocals.” Jeff MurderWatch Mystery Theatre is a crowd asked for a show of hands from those wearing his innovation. Many hands went pleaser after 20 years, in which group or dinner theatre audiences are ensnared in up. “Ben” quipped, “You’re welcome!” a staged whodunit and follow clues to find the “real” perpetrator. All Dreamland The Rebirth Of Betsy Ross Productions’ shows are scripted, but are Connie Gay continues: “Our clients open enough for performers to ad-lib an began requesting another character to aside with the audience or to take advantage complement Jeff’s Ben Franklin. A close of an unexpected situation. Since all friend of mine had, years ago, taught me productions are enhanced by music, sound to cut a five-pointed star from folded effects and props, set-up takes several hours paper, so Betsy Ross seemed a natural.” for a one-hour show. Props are originals She has two versions of her oneor replicates the couple has acquired hour show: One with full sound and through the years of perfecting their arts. projected photographs, and another A telephone call to (352) 508-5523 or a visit online to www.murderwatch. more intimate presentation featuring com will bring an envelope of informative, colorful brochures explaining the a full service afternoon tea party. She wide scope of Dreamland Productions’ interactive offerings. All their shows enjoys the latter because it allows her are available for hire by communities, clubs, restaurants and hotels. (WSS) more interaction with her audiences.

Ben Franklin Fun Facts

1706 1718 1722 1728 1730 1733 1744 1746 1753 1776 1784 1787 1790

Presidential Libraries Debut New Passport Program

n addition to your National Park Passport, you will also want the new “Passport to Presidential Libraries.” Purchase the booklet and each time you visit one of the Presidential Libraries, you will receive a special stamp.

Dizziness or Balance Issues?

The Passport includes dedicated spaces for stamps as well as fascinating information related to each Presidential Library. The Passports can be purchased at any Presidential Library or the National Archives Gift Shop in Washington D.C. for $5. For more information, please call (404) 865-7109.

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God Bless You! BY JIM MCDEVITT

ooner or later, everyone sneezes. People who hear you sneeze, even in a public place, often automatically ask God to bless you even though they may not know you. They may not even like you. Ever since I can remember, everyone in my vicinity has been saying “God bless you” when I sneeze. I have no clue how this tradition started but I do know I have said “God bless you” all my life to anyone I hear sneezing. It was just the right thing to do, like holding a door open for a lady. Heck, when I was a cop and arrested someone I would say, “God bless you” if the perpetrator sneezed while I was putting him in handcuffs.

Humor Here’s the thing though. Lately I’ve noticed my wife only gives me one “God bless you” when I sneeze. Sometimes I sneeze four or five times in a row, but I only get one “God bless you.” When did it become fashionable to limit these blessings? Is there some kind of limit on blessings I don’t know about? I’m tempted to say “God bless me,” out loud to make sure I get all my God blesses. If my wife starts sneezing one sneeze after the other, I keep my blessings coming. I don’t have a limit. I was taught if a person is sneezing, you just keep those blessings coming until they stop sneezing. If my dog sneezes, I say “God bless you.” To find out more about these blessings, I did some internet research. Here is what I found out. There are several possible explanations for this tradition. In Eastern Asia, as early as 1000 B.C., there was a belief that a sneeze was a sign someone was talking about you at that very moment. One sneeze meant something being said about you was good, while two sneezes meant something bad was said. I

have discounted this belief because it would mean someone like President Obama would be sneezing all day long, since someone somewhere is always talking about him night and day and he’s not sneezing like that. In Polish tradition, there was a belief that your mother-in-law was talking about you if you sneezed. No explanation was provided if your mother-in-law sneezed. In Pakistan, there is a superstition that if a man sneezes, his wife is thinking fondly of him. I guess if you’re single, it’s just a sneeze. In Christian circles, some attribute the saying, “God bless you” to Pope Gregory the Great (540 – 604 A.D.) who became Pope at the start of the plague. I understand he started blessing people when they sneezed in the hope, no doubt, that they weren’t coming down with the plague. Current science says each sneeze can send 40,000 droplets flying around to spread disease to anyone within reach. Current advice to sneezers is not to use your hands to cover your sneeze, but to use your arms. They say using your hands means you will spread those 40,000 droplets all day long over anything you touch. The best advice I have is that if you are flying and seated next to someone who is sneezing, you should have a blanket handy and throw it over their head and say, “God bless you.”

Seniors Look Forward To Games In Kissimmee “W

e weren’t the biggest, but we were told often that we were the best run games in the state,” declares Randy Fisher, athletics supervisor for the city of Kissimmee’s parks and recreation department. Not at all shy about his enthusiasm for the event, Fisher is one of the chief architects putting building blocks in place for the return of the state-sanctioned Senior Games to Kissimmee and Osceola County, September 10 – 17. Interest is high and things are taking shape quite nicely, according to Fisher. He has fielded upwards of 30 calls a week about the event since it was announced in March. Those calls are coming from seniors throughout the state and from various retirement communities. Most of the callers want to know about the events and how to register, which will officially open after the

Independence Day holiday. Other callers have said: “Thanks for bringing it back” and “It’s about time.” Such comments confirm what Fisher came to realize in 1993 when the concept of the games was first introduced as part of a statewide initiative from the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness. Fisher knew then and now that seniors want and

actively participate in carefully structured athletic activities. He’s been at the front line of offering those activities. For 13 straight years beginning in October 1994, he helped coordinate the activities that would attract hundreds of athletes to the Kissimmee-St. Cloud Senior Games. During that period, Fisher estimates more than 7000 seniors made the trek to Kissimmee to compete in events such as archery, billiards, swimming, basketball shooting, bowling, horseshoes, track and field, shuffleboard, golf, cycling, race walking, 5k run, pickle ball, tennis, table tennis and more. That was before the economic downturn forced budget cuts and a three-year suspension of the games. Now, the event is poised for a triumphant return, thanks to a goldmedal team Fisher says is committed to bringing the glory back to the

Kissimmee-St. Cloud Senior Games. The team includes elements of Osceola County government, the city of St. Cloud, the town of Celebration as well as the Good Samaritan Village and the Osceola County Council on Aging. Together, they’re putting together a week-long slate of competitions that will be jointly promoted by the city of Kissimmee and the Kissimmee Convention & Visitors Bureau, Osceola County’s tourism promotion department. Information on the events and how to register will be available on www. Kissimmeeparks.org as well as on www.SRGames and VisitKissimmee. com. Callers may also get more information at (407) 518-2504. All qualifiers at the Kissimmee-St. Cloud Senior Games will be eligible to compete at the Florida State Senior Games Championship, to be held in Polk County, December 3 – 11.

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Kissimmee/St. Cloud Senior Games September 10-17 Compete in 23 events. Bring your friends and family along to cheer you on and enjoy the fun of attractions and activities in Kissimmee. For more information or to request a registration form, please call 407.518.2504 or see SRGames.VisitKissimmee.com. Sponsored by:

Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 13

Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s I

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Visit www.twitter.com/MaturLifeStyles or Like “Senior Connection and Mature Lifestyles” on www.facebook. com for the latest news and fun events in your area. Get your “Smile for the Day!” or share comments with us! Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 14

imothy Vavra, D.O., of Loyola University Health recommends the following screenings for all men:

• Colorectal cancer every 10 years by colonoscopy, then a yearly fecal occult blood test (which can find blood in the stool) or, every five years, a fecal blood test combined with a sigmoidoscopy. • Prostate cancer test for men over 50 who have a life expectancy of at least 10 years. Be sure to talk to your doctor about these tests.

Diet, Exercise and Weight Loss

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ccording to an April article in Obesity magazine, women who both improved their diet and exercised regularly shed an average of nearly 11 percent of their starting weight. This degree of weight loss may not bring an obese individual to a normal weight, but it can bring health benefits (reduced risk of diabetes, heart disease and cancer). Significant notes: • The study involved overweight-to-obese, sedentary, postmenopausal women ages 50 to 75—a group with high rates of overweight and obesity.

• The greatest weight loss was achieved by women who both changed their diet and exercised

regularly. They reduced calories by cutting fat intake and boosted the consumption of low-calorie foods, and they did regular aerobic exercise.

• Exercise not only promotes weight loss and prevents weight gain over time, it also helps with balance, strength and fitness. • The women who lost the most weight and body fat kept a food journal, writing down everything they ate and drank (except water and no-calorie drinks. • Other successful weight loss strategies included preparing meals at home and eating out less often at restaurants—two things that give you the most control over calories. The National Cancer Institute funded the research.

‘Til Death Do You Part…

For Richer or Poorer ingles need 40 percent more than couples to maintain the same retirement lifestyle. Put another way, it costs one person about 75 percent of what two would pay, according to the American Academy of Actuaries. In retirement planning for both groups, financial advisors are noting how couples can use their situation to an advantage. It may be pooling risks, with savings supporting the survivors, tag-teaming their investments so that their portfolios complement one another or purchasing a longevity annuity which could amount to considerable savings compared to what a single person would spend. Linda Stern, “Singles, Couples Face Own Retirement Issues,” Reuters.com.

In Sickness and in Health How one long-married spouse fares emotionally and physically can greatly impact the other, a study conducted by the University of British Columbia and Pennsylvania State University reveals. The research looked at 1,700 couples ages 76 – 90 married more than 40 years over a 15-year span. Researchers discovered a strong association between such depressive symptoms as loneliness, unhappiness and restlessness, and physical limitations (i.e., cooking, climbing stairs). The link has been found among individuals, but never before to spouses, and suggests practitioners consider the health of the other spouse when treating their patient. “Physical and Emotional Health of Older Couples Linked for Better or Worse, Study Finds,” Science Daily.

Perturbed by Passwords BY RICHARD SHERMAN

hen filling out online log-ins and some forms, why do I have to type in my e-mail address and password twice? It’s not hard to do, but it’s a pain in the neck. Is there a reason for that? Yes, there is. Its primary purpose is, of course, to ruin your day, and secondarily, to make sure whatever you enter is correct. There is always a chance that a finger can slip when typing something the first time, resulting in an inadvertent tpyo. Typing it twice virtually eliminates that possibility. Because we’re required to remember so many usernames and passwords, while most browsers remember them, it’s a good idea to keep a copy in a

secure location in case you ever need to manually enter them. In the alternative, you can use a password manager such as Roboform (www.roboform.com). I keep passwords in a document file that I renamed something only I know, changing the file extension in the process, and moving the file to an undisclosed location on an external drive. I also send the file to one of my Gmail accounts as an attachment, so it’s safe and secure in a remote location, out of harm’s way, yet I can access it at any time. I recently started using Gmail, thanks to your recommendation. I like it a lot, but what I can’t figure out is how to e-mail something I copied from Excel. When I paste a portion of my spreadsheet into the body of my Gmail message, it loses its formatting. How can I avoid that? I recommend sending data as an attachment rather than placing

it within the body of an e-mail to avoid formatting issues such as you describe. The process of attaching a file involves little more than clicking the “Attach” button and selecting a file, so it’s not a particularly arduous activity. If your recipient has a large font selected as the default, for example, or is using a text-based format and your Excel data is inserted in the body of a message, all native formatting (within Excel) will be removed. But if you send it as an attachment, when the recipient opens your Excel or Word document, he or she will see it within their own Excel, Word or other compatible application, and it will appear exactly as you sent it. As senders, we cannot control what others see when we paste anything into the body of a message. Having said that, to send Excel snippets (ExSnips?) within a Gmail message, send it as Rich Formatting, not Plain Text. Directly above where

you enter your message in the Compose window of Gmail, you will see “Rich Formatting” that you can click to enable. Then copy and paste the Excel data into your message and it should be fine. If not, think “attachment.” I received an alert advising that I needed to update my Adobe Flash Player if I was using an older version. I don’t know how to locate the Adobe Flash Player to check which version I have. I am feeling very dumb again. Thanks for being there, Mr. M. A very easy way to determine the version is to simply play a YouTube (www.youtube.com) video. Right-click the video when it’s playing and it will display the version of the Flash player being used. For answers to your questions by e-mail, or to subscribe to Mr. Modem’s award-winning weekly newsletter, visit www.MrModem.com.

Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 15

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Cut Out The Fat, Save Your Skin! BY DR. NORMAN

ow does a diet high in fat increase the risk of skin cancer? According to several new studies in the International Journal of Cancer and noted in the Harvard Health Letter, “Saving Your Skin”—high-fat diets may increase risk of skin cancer. By now, most people know that skin cancer is the price many sun worshippers pay for their golden tans. But they may not know that eating a diet high in fat may also promote the development of basal and squamous cell carcinomas—the two most common forms of skin cancer in the United States. As early as 1939, animal studies indicated that mice fed a high-fat diet who were exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation developed cancer at higher rates than those on lower fat regimens.

save your heart but you can save your skin from skin cancers. So eat more salads and fruits, go for more walks and save your skin.

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osmetic surgeons say their typical patients are energetic, active people who are less interested in hiding their age than they are in looking as youthful as they feel. These patients find that an aging face erodes self-confidence. A typical question such a patient should ask herself is, “Why should I go on looking like this when every other part of me feels young?” A good cosmetic surgeon will try to make each patient’s face retain its own individuality after surgery and strive to make changes that are almost imperceptible to others. From “Defying Age” by Dr. Miriam Stoppard.

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Finally, a cell phone that’s… a phone!

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Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 18

Soon-to-be Boomer Retirees Want Homes to Support Pursuit of Life’s Passions BY JEFF GERSH

oday’s boomers are well-connected online, describe themselves as “full of life” and say retirement is a time to reinvent and discover themselves, according to Trilogy by Shea Homes’ online survey of boomers. The survey drew over 85 percent of participants from Trilogy’s Facebook pages and Twitter feeds. It also found boomers are not only focused on connecting with others and staying near loved ones but also on making a difference, and they are not slowing down anytime soon. Boomers ranked traveling (58%), having a balanced lifestyle (51%), being more active (46%) and having more “me” time (46%) as priorities in retirement.

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did not want to put off living our life anymore. We wanted to be around people who are like us. We wanted to be involved in sports and doing lots of things culturally,” said Terri. When choosing where to live, many boomers are actively pursuing plush amenities and benefits, but they should also consider how an active adult club will “feel” when all lots are sold. Active adult communities with established clubhouses or those currently being built out can also provide a good value, since they may have been able to obtain discounts on the land. Those that are just being planned may have to reduce club and home space to accommodate land costs and still compete on price. When considering a new home, resale or staying with an existing

residence, boomers rank green features (which can save as much as 40 percent on energy usage) high on their list of priorities. Today’s boomers are also considering factors many have not before—such as having a space for a home office—as many transition into retirement. Boomers should ask themselves what is important in retirement: Location? Having access to amenities/ activities? Maintaining connectedness with family, friends, others? What do I want to be doing? How important is customizing my home? Have I always had a specific dream or ideal in mind? All of these questions weigh in on determining the best environment to pursue one’s retirement dreams. For info, contact jeff.gersh@ sheahomes.com, or see trilogylife.com.

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Having a home to support all of their passions also ranked high—boomers primarily want it to be easy to take care of (59%), followed by the foundation for a vibrant future (40%). But making the leap to a new home is not always an easy decision, especially in the current economy with owners sometimes unable to get as much as desired for an existing home. Though home sales may be down across the country 15 percent year over year, not every development or area is following this trend. Sunshine and beautiful weather are limited, commanding higher prices for homes in areas like Florida. Many boomers, including Terri and Ron Fraser, recent Trilogy homebuyers in the Orlando area, are putting a priority on living the active, engaged life they’ve always wanted. “No one has the crystal ball to know when the best time is, but for us, we

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American Care Medical Centers Reaches out to the Community

merican Care Medical Centers, which recently expanded to West Tampa, is not your typical doctor’s office. The practice focuses on meeting the social and economic needs of the community, as well as providing a caring atmosphere to people in need. The new center, located at 8726 W. Waters Avenue, offers primary care medical services and a multitude of other benefits.

“The combined goals of serving our patient population, as well as bearing in mind the economic needs of the communities we serve, make for a powerful win-win partnership for all concerned.” They have an on-site pharmacy, an on-site laboratory, an activity room with exercise equipment, and a nondenominational prayer room for their patients to use during office hours. They provide a monthly food supplement bag to those who qualify and, best of all, they even provide courtesy transportation to the primary care physician and specialist appointments. As if that isn’t enough, each medical center also has an office for people to go to apply for social services, such as Medicaid and food stamps. American Care truly brings the Medical Home model of health care to their patients! You may be wondering where they got their start. American Care Medical Centers began operations in August 1995 with one medical center in Miami-Dade County. In May of 2005, they opened and continue to operate the first Tampa location at 11211 N. Nebraska Avenue. Since then, American Care has grown to encompass

11 medical centers throughout the State of Florida, with two additional locations currently under construction and others in the planning phase. Despite their phenomenal growth, their mission remains the same: to provide the highest quality medical care and services for their members. American Care is dedicated to establishing and maintaining meaningful, successful, and long-term relationships with their Members and Providers. Carmen Garcia Wiedenhoeft, Community Outreach Manager, stated in a press release, “It has been our experience that the combined goals of serving our patient population, as well as bearing in mind the economic needs of the communities we serve, make for a powerful win-win partnership for all concerned” The West Tampa location currently accepts Medicare and Medicaid plans, including WellCare, CarePlus, Coventry and Physicians United Plan. They also offer two of their own commercial plans: HealthFlex, which costs $50 per month, but is subject to income restrictions, and the Premier Plan, which is available for $30 a month and has no income restrictions. American Care Medical Centers are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. For more information, please call (813) 802-5404 or (813) 712-1726. You can also visit the American Care website at www.americancare.com.

Medications 101:

How Much Do You Know? W hile everyone needs to be careful when taking medications, older adults face particular challenges. Often, they take more than one medicine at a time and they may not metabolize drugs as well as they once did, raising the risk of complications. Answering these true or false questions from home care company Interim HealthCare may help reduce side effects and improve the efficacy of any medications being taken:

Questions—True or False:

1. Filling your prescriptions at the same pharmacy is a good idea. 2. All drugs need to be refrigerated.

3. If you miss a dose, the best thing to do is wait for the next time you need to take one. 4. Stop taking the drug once you feel better.

5. If you can’t remember to take your medicine at the right time of day and in the right amount, use charts, calendars and weekly pillboxes. 6. Certain foods can interact with medications.

Answers:

1. True. That way, your records are in one place. This allows the pharmacist to know what you are taking and tell you if a new drug may cause interactions if taken with another drug at the same time. 2. False. However, all drugs should be stored away from children and animals. Many must be stored away from heat and direct light and not in the bathroom or other damp place. If a drug is not stored correctly, it can reduce its effectiveness.

3. False. Some drugs should be taken as soon as you realize you missed a dose; with others, you should wait until the next dose. Be sure to ask your doctor or pharmacist how to proceed with the drug you are taking. 4. False. Take the medicine until you are finished or until the doctor tells you to stop. 5. True. All these reminder systems can work, but if you become more forgetful, supervision may be required.

6. True. Grapefruit juice can increase the levels of some medicines in your blood. Eating a calcium-rich dairy product can stop antibiotics from working. These are just two examples. Check with your physician or pharmacist for more insight. Always ask your doctor what each prescribed drug is, why you are taking it, when you should take it and what side effects to watch for. Supervising medication is one of the many jobs a home health care aide can perform. For more information, visit www.interimhealthcare.com. As seniors age, they may forget to take the medications that are prescribed to them and not report side effects to doctors. (NAPSA) Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 21

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just threw my watch in the trash. I got it as a gift a while back—and it was something else. It had four different digital displays, about a dozen buttons, was waterproof to about a thousand feet, and I think it could even tell me the weather. I’ll never know, though, because, like I said, it’s in the trash. Turns out it couldn’t do the one thing I want a watch to do … tell me the correct time. It always ran a little slow, which was bad enough, but there were so many displays and they were so small that I couldn’t tell the time even if it was accurate. When I tried to reset it I pushed the wrong button and set it on military time, and I couldn’t figure out how to switch it back. That was the last straw. Now, I’ve got a great watch. It’s super-accurate, easy-to-read, and it will even tell … yes tell … me the time. Best of all, I’ll never have to set it! This is the watch I’ve been waiting for.

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This Talking Atomic Watch from firstSTREET maintains its phenomenal accuracy because it is designed to receive a signal from the US Atomic Clock in Fort Collins, Colorado. This clock is the standard for time measurement worldwide… it can go 20 million years without gaining or losing a second! It never needs to be set, because it automatically adjusts itself for daylight savings time and leap years.

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The most accurate watch in the world is of no use if you can’t read it. This timepiece is designed to tell you the correct time… anytime. It features a clear, uncluttered analog display that you won’t need reading glasses to see. Best of all, you can press a button and it will tell you the time in a clear, easy-to-understand voice. So whether you’re driving to an appointment or dining in a candle-lit restaurant… you are sure to know the exact time. Press another button and it will even tell you the day and date if you want. There’s even an automatic hourly chime.

Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 22

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Get Out of the Sand Trap: Treating Your Knee Pain BY DR. JOSEPH MARKENSON

any pros and U.S. Open contenders have endured knee pain and injury throughout their golf careers. But you don’t have to be a pro, or even a scratch golfer, to have knee pain. Approximately 24 percent of amateur golfers will find themselves sidelined by knee pain.

Health Many of my patients think that being diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis (OA), which impacts the lives of more than 10 million American adults, means the end of their favorite pastime. The good news is that golf is a very adaptable sport that can be modified to meet the physical capabilities of almost anyone. For immediate pain relief, and to decrease swelling, I recommend my patients elevate and ice the knee for

five minutes at least twice a day. Strengthening the muscles surrounding the knee through exercise will also help alleviate knee pain. One example is to do isometric quadriceps exercises, which can easily be done at home. Using the elliptical machine, stationary bike or just walking for twenty minutes are low-impact routines that will help strengthen muscles to support cartilage. You might also decrease knee injuries and pain by changing your golf equipment. The Arthritis Foundation suggests using clubs with lightweight graphite shafts and perimeter-weighted heads to help absorb shock and lower compression golf balls. Getting a golf bag with a wheeled cart and switching to spikeless golf shoes, reducing the chances of catching your foot and

Eating Healthy at Pizza Hut A

merica’s first pizza chain is a tricky place to eat without breaking your daily sodium bank. Want a pizza? Not even one of their 9-inch personal pies has fewer than 1,000 calories (the meat lover’s has 1,500 and 31 grams of saturated fat!). What does that mean? You can actually eat an entire medium (12-inch) Thin ‘N Crispy Ham & Pineapple Pizza for the same calorie count. Or stay on track with two slices of the Thin ‘N Crispy Supreme 14-inch pizza for 840 calories—but a LOT of sodium and fat. Whatever you do at Pizza Hut, avoid their The Edge Meaty Pizza (two slices of their 14-incher has 900 calories and 58 grams of fat, plus a whopping 2,480 mg of sodium). Get the wings! Six All American Traditional Wings can taste great for only 320 calories, 9g fat and 1,100 mg sodium. However, six of their Garlic Parmesan Bone-out Wings rack up 840 calories, 60g of fat and 2,430 mg of sodium.

And your idea that maybe the pasta is the way to go at Pizza Hut? Forget it! Their All Natural Chicken Alfredo Pasta (with a serving as ¼ of a full pan) wallops your digestive system with 33 g of fat and 1,190 mg sodium. One last word about Pizza Hut: Any order of pasta at Pizza Hut shoots your system with half a day’s worth of sodium and saturated fat. Keep to a simple thin crust basic pizza. Information from “Eat This, Not That!” By David Zinczenko.

tripping, are also simple adaptations that will go far on the fairway. If your knee pain persists, you may want to speak with your doctor about prescription options; including oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or newer topical options such as a diclofenac gel, patch or solution. Topical NSAIDs are especially important to consider in adults aged 65

and older who may experience gastrointestinal issues. While treating your pain, be sure to ease back into your game by playing fewer holes and using a golf cart. Don’t return to a full swing prematurely, especially when using a driver or long irons. This might place enough stress on the knee to risk re-injury. Just as golf pros have been able to come back from knee pain and win the U.S. Open, you might be able to get back into your game by treating your knee pain Dr. Joseph Markenson is an attending physician at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City and professor of clinical medicine at Weill Cornell Medical College. For more information, visit Arthritis Today at www.arthritis.org/golf.

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Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 23

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Home Health Mates...Question & Answer Take The Guesswork Out of Finding the Best Home Health Care

BY BRUCE MUENTER

received many inquiries over the past month on how to select home health care and the questions that need to be asked to make an informed decision. Joe from Sun City asked; “I am bombarded with information, but all any agency seems concerned about is selling me services. In many cases, I am not sure what to ask.” Joe, believe it or not that continues to be the question that the majority of readers need answered. In an attempt to trim the information down, here are the top five questions any prospective client should be asking:

1. Is your agency licensed and accredited? Licensing and accreditation are the nucleus of any home health agency. Without licensing, they would cease to operate. Ask if they have had any violations, and what were the reasons. You should also go to the AHCA (Agency for Health Care Administration) for Florida. Here, you can look up past performance issues and see if they have been corrected. Accreditation is a little trickier as this has historically been an optional quality approval in Florida; but in 2010 it became mandatory for all new agencies. Regardless of whether the agency had to or not is irrelevant. Any agency concerned about quality will be accredited by one of three agencies: CHAP (The Community Health Accreditation

I would encourage you to e-mail me at bmuenter@homehealthmates.com or send your questions to: News Connection, USA, P.O. Box 638, Seffner, FL 33584, Attn. Editor – Home Health Mates. I will answer all questions you may have, including the ones that we do not feature in Senior Connection magazine. Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 24

Program), ACHC (The Accreditation Commission for Health Care) and JCAHO (Joint Commission). If they said this is not really important, then they just told you enough about their concern for quality. 2. Is your plan of care supervised by a Director of Nursing? Your plan of care should be assessed in the beginning and evaluated monthly by a RN with no extra charge. If they charge you for this service, then you have not done your shopping. 3. Do you have hourly minimums? You should not pay for service that is not needed. If the agency tells you that a minimum amount of hours is needed for their services, then you have not shopped around for the right agency. Don’t buy more than you need. 4. How do you hire employees, and are they your employees?

What is their process for hiring (experience of minimum one year in home health care). Licensed? Bonded? Insured? Ask to see the certificate of insurance. Do they work directly for the agency or are they contract employees? Private caregivers also increase your liability…in other words, if they fall in your house while working, then you’re personally liable. 5. What separates you from other agencies? What is their customer satisfaction rating? Do they even know? What percent of their customers end up in the hospital or rehab with the agency’s care? Does the agency let you meet the caregiver free of charge prior to the initial visit? Do you have a choice? These five steps will allow you to make an informed decision. As always, feel free to call me at 813-884-5040 if you have any questions, or visit my website at: www.homehealthmates.com/ tampa.php. Have a great month!

Ear Problem Explained Q

. I have a feeling of fullness in my ears that won’t go away. I think it has been diagnosed as something called eustachian tube dysfunction. I have been to several otolaryngologists. Nothing has worked. Suggestions?

eardrum than the outside, so the eardrum may cave in slightly. This causes that sensation of fullness. In serious cases, fluid Eustachian Tube accumulates behind the eardrum because pressure is so low that fluid from surrounding tissues and blood vessels gets pulled into the middle ear. Some people try nasal sprays and A. People with a persistent sensation of over-the-counter antihistamines and fullness in the ear should get it checked decongestants for eustachian tube out by a physician. Occasionally, dysfunction, but there’s no evidence hearing loss can create such a feeling. that they are effective for this purpose. Temporomandibular joint (sometimes Doctors are faced with problems referred to as TMJ) disorders, which that can’t be fixed. This may be one affect the joint that connects the jawbone to the skull, can also create the of those situations. I would think sensation. But a diagnosis of eustachian about trying biofeedback or some other kind of mind-body technique. tube dysfunction does make sense. The fullness sensation may not go The eustachian tube, which connects away completely, but people can train the middle ear to the nasal cavity, helps their brains so that bothersome, even to equalize the air pressure on either painful, symptoms are less troubling. side of the eardrum. If your eustachian tube is blocked or not working properly, — Jo Shapiro, M.D., Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston there’s less pressure on the inside of the

Warning: Heat Kills And Pets Are Susceptible! J ust like people, pets can suffer heatstroke at any hour of the day—even in the shade. Symptoms include excessive panting, drooling, weakness, disorientation and seizures. It is not uncommon for an animal in heatstroke to refuse water.

Tips for protecting pets from Florida’s dangerous heat: • Make shade and fresh water available and plentiful at all times. • Use caution at all times when exercising dogs. • Reduce risks to very active dogs that don’t know their own limitations. • Limit outdoor exposure of older pets, heavy-coated (fur) breeds, and brachycephalic dogs (those with

pushed in noses), such as bull dogs, pugs, Pekinese, Boston and Yorkshire Terriers, to name a few.

• Advise guardians of your pet’s individual needs.

Like humans, pets suffering from heatstroke require immediate first-aid:

• Lower the body temperature by submerging in cool (not icy) water, or by running a hose over its body. Cool the head and neck areas first.

• Place the victim in an air-conditioned space. Do not attempt to force a heatstroke victim to drink water. • Seek immediate medical attention and evaluation for any victim of heatstroke.

Information from hillsboroughcounty.org/animalservices.

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Retirement CPR: Creating and Protecting Retirement

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Medicare Q and A Q

: My provider just asked me to sign an Advance Beneficiary Notice. What does this form do?

A: An Advance Beneficiary Notice

(ABN), also known as a “waiver of liability,” is a notice that suppliers and medical providers are required to give you when they offer you services or items they know or have reason to believe Medicare will determine

Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 26

to be medically unnecessary for you, and therefore, will not cover. Providers are not required to give you an ABN for services or items explicitly excluded from Medicare coverage. In addition, ABNs apply only if you are in Original Medicare, not if you are in a Medicare private health plan (HMO, PPO or PFFS). For more information, call 1-800-Medicare or visit medicare.gov.

inancial health, like physical health, requires that a person has a goal and the discipline to take positive action to achieve that goal. Having worked in the financial industry since 1983, I have seen little change in the public’s financial health or habits. In fact, government studies reveal that only five out every 100 workers can successfully retire and maintain their lifestyle. Why, in the world’s richest country, is that true? Even if we have personal discipline and financial goals, there are three factors integral to a successful retirement.

Finance #1 is TIME. The sooner we start to save, the harder and longer our money can work for us! Using the “Rule of 72” we can calculate how quickly our savings will double, quadrruple, or more. #2 is CONTRIBUTIONS. The more we can set aside when we are younger, the greater our savings will be when we reach retirement. #3 is INVESTMENT RESULTS, which can drastically impact our retirement plans. Over the past decade, too many people have experienced losses of 30 percent to 50 percent of their retirement funds and are forced to keep working and are unable to retire. Once a person decides which investment option is best suited for their needs, they must further consider which investment strategy best fits their risk tolerance. The three strategies are fixed interest; the Market (either stocks or real estate) and Indexing. Fixed interest offers the least amount of risk. However, money market

rates and CDs are at historically low rates and currently not keeping up with inflation. Following the Rule of 72, a fixed interest account earning 1 percent will double every 72 years. Also, inflation is running around 3 percent and reducing our purchasing power.

The Market, either stocks or real estate, offers higher potential gain but also a major risk of loss. As we have seen in the 1987, 2001 and 2008 stock market drops, investors suffered significant losses, impacting their retirement plans. Likewise, as we have seen throughout the United States, the real estate market has experienced severe depreciation and losses in both commercial and residential property values. The Index strategy has been rising in popularity due to higher potential gains combined with eliminating the risk of loss of principal and any annually credited interest added. Indexing is tied to the various stock indices such as the SP500, NASDAQ 100 or the FTSE rather than stocks or mutual funds. Limited by participation rates and CAPs, the index strategy can offer double digit returns in up markets coupled with no risk of loss in a down markets. Should the stock market have negative results, the participant has no gain for the year but, more significantly, would suffer no loss. When the market recovers and begins to rise the participant will participate in the subsequent gains. Once you have decided on which retirement option to utilize and which investment strategy fits your risk/ reward tolerance; the most important step is to take action and begin protecting your retirement income. And of course, “Enjoy your retirement!” For more information, call (813) 774-1862 or e-mail the author at clynnlutz@aol.com.

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Volunteer Opportunity

lorida’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program needs volunteers to join its corps of dedicated advocates who protect the rights of elders who live in nursing homes, assisted living facilities and adult family care homes. The program’s local councils are seeking additional volunteers to identify, investigate and resolve residents’ concerns. Special training and certiﬁcation is provided. All interested individuals who care about protecting the health, safety, welfare and rights of long-term care facility residents—who often have no one else to advocate for them—are encouraged to call tollfree at 1-888-831-0404 or visit the program’s website at ombudsman. myﬂorida.com.

reader asks: I have a fully funded “living” trust. My home, my bank accounts and my non-IRA investments have all been retitled to my trust. Unfortunately, I seem to have misplaced the original copy of my trust agreement. Will this cause a problem?

The Law And You Response: Your situation demonstrates why when I prepare a living trust for a client, in an effort to avoid what happened to you, I always insist that a duplicate original trust agreement be executed with the duplicate original being kept in a separate and secure location. If your living trust cannot be found and you die or become incapacitated, a probate and/or guardianship will be required. But this would not be the worst of it. Because your assets are held by a trust—a trust which is now lost—

your personal representative and/or your guardian will be faced with the daunting task of clearing title to the assets. With your real estate, this could include the necessity of filing a lawsuit known as a Quiet Title action. With your cash, it could mean a lawsuit to establish a constructive trust. Such lawsuits are expensive, time consuming and generally unpleasant undertakings. Not to mention the fact that your assets may end up being distributed in a manner wholly different than what you had intended. Fortunately, as you are still alive and competent, you have the opportunity to correct the problem. Contact the attorney who prepared your living trust and ask the attorney to prepare a document known as a Restatement of Trust. The Restatement of Trust is, for all intents and purposes, a new living trust; but because it relates back to your original trust, all of the assets in the original living trust will be automatically absorbed into the new trust document. You might remind your attorney that had he or she prepared duplicate

originals of your living trust in the first place, the Restatement of Trust would not now be necessary and perhaps your attorney will waive or reduce the fee for preparing the new document.

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 MartindaleHubbell Peer Review Rating for Legal Ability is High to Very High and his General Recommendation Rating is Very High. His articles are based on general principles of law and are not intended to apply to individual circumstances.

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The Life List: Ten Items All Caregivers Must Have

eing a caregiver can be one of the most challenging, complicated and rewarding jobs you’ll ever do. It is detail-oriented, physically and emotionally taxing and can require lightning-fast decision making that could potentially affect the outcome of a person’s recovery. Joni Aldrich, author of Connecting through Compassion: Guidance for Family and Friends of a Brain Cancer Patient, says there are ten basic must-have tools caregivers need to have on hand:

1. Seven-day, multiple-section pill organizer. Caregiving is a very detail-oriented job where medications, doses and timing are involved. Having a pill organizer can be a lifesaver (and a sanity saver) for you and your patient. Aldrich recommends using one with slots for every day of the week and different times for each day. Fill their pill organizer ahead of time so you’re also reminded ahead of time to call the pharmacy for a refill.

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2. Updated list of all medications. Keep a list of all medications and their dosage information with you at all times. Take a current copy with you to every doctor’s appointment and keep a copy in every possible place where you may need it at a moment’s notice (or in case you leave the house without it by mistake) like your purse, coat pockets, and vehicles. Tack a copy by the phone and the patient’s bed for easy access.

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3. Good pill cutter. Depending on the prescription, you may have to cut pills in halves or quarters to get the right dosage.

4. Over-the-counter oral antihistamine. Mild allergic reactions usually respond to non-prescription allergy medications such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl). A liquid or “fast-melt” type of Benadryl can be better than pills, if the reaction is in their mouth or if there’s stomach upset. And

always call for medical assistance before the problem becomes severe.

5. Latex or non-latex gloves. Gloves that are the right size are necessary to protect both the patient and the caregiver from harmful germs, and they can be used for protection in a variety of situations—from serving food to cleaning up messes. 6. Hydrogen peroxide. Peroxide is good for cleaning wounds, getting bloodstains out of clothing and bedding and being used like a mouthwash for mouth sores.

7. Rubbing alcohol. Now for the big guns! Alcohol is a wound sterilizer as well as a good cleaning agent for places like handrails and doorknobs. 8. Digital thermometer (with covers). Digital thermometers with plastic covers are fast, accurate, user-friendly and easy to read.

9. Good blood pressure monitor. There are plenty of fully automatic, accurate digital machines available for purchase for in-home use. Look for versions that measure blood pressure correctly on the upper arm at heart level with readings given on a digital display.

10. Plenty of paperwork. You’ll need to have a calendar for organizing appointments, tests and a schedule of caregiving help. Keep a three-ring binder for storing medical test results and patient notes in one place. Have all pertinent phone numbers posted near every phone. The note that doesn’t get documented or the question that doesn’t get answered may be the one that gets you into the most trouble. “While being a caregiver is one of the most challenging experiences of my life, it has also been one of the most rewarding,” Aldrich concludes. “Having the support and help of others who have been there can be a huge help. The peace of mind you’ll get from being prepared is one of the most precious gifts you can give yourself as a caregiver.”

Ask Boyette: Pets and Heat Stroke BY DR. SARAH STALNAKER

ince summer is upon us, I’d like to know more about heat stroke and how to prevent it.

Caring For Your Pet Summer can be a great time for outdoor fun at the beach or on picnics. Tragedy can strike, however, if proper precautions are not taken to prevent heat stroke. At our practice, most cases of heat stroke are seen in dogs, especially those that have a heavy coat, are overweight, or have a very short muzzle such as English bulldogs and pugs. Older dogs in general have more health problems such as heart or respiratory disease than younger animals. This makes them more susceptible to heat stroke. Heat stroke is an emergency that requires immediate veterinary attention.

It is therefore important for owners to recognize the early warning signs of this condition. Your pet may become less energetic and its breathing rate increase as its temperature starts to rise. Unlike humans, dogs can only sweat from their paw pads. Normally, they will pant to cool off, but in a crisis such as heat stroke, their body will be unable to compensate for the rapid increase in body temperature in this manner. Normal gums are usually pink with some black pigmentation. If the gums become pale pink or white, this can indicate that your pet is going into shock from overheating. Heat stroke can strike in a matter of minutes during the hottest days of the summer, so prevention is vital. Just like children, dogs and cats can overheat when left in a car for even a few minutes, regardless of whether the windows are left partially open or not. Without treatment, your pet can collapse, go into a coma or even die.

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Dogs that stay indoors in air conditioning should be watched while they are outside and exercised during cooler times of the day. Dogs that live outside should be kept in shaded areas with plenty of water available. A small children’s swimming pool can even be used by dogs to take a dip in when they feel hot, as long as it too is in the shade. Following simple precautions and keeping a close eye on your pets in hot weather can save them from this potentially fatal disease.

Ask Boyette Do you have a topic you would like to know more about? Send us your questions and we will answer them in this column. E-mail us at ask boyette@boyetteanimalhospital. com, or mail us at Ask Boyette c/o Boyette Animal Hospital, 10931 Boyette Rd., Riverview, FL 33569.

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Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 30

More Violence in PG-13 Movies Than Before

and presentations of substance abuse—the same criteria members of the MPAA’s Classification and Ratings Administration (CARA) consider when assigning a rating to a film. “Our quantitative content analysis of 45 films indicated a significant increase in violent content in these films, despite the ratings remaining the same,” says the Stonehill College professor. “We searched for evidence of ‘creep’ in all categories, but our results pointed to one conclusion,” he says. “In the PG-13 rating category, the only area of adult content on the rise was violence.” Said another way, today’s PG-13 movie was yesterday’s R movie. It parallels often-heard comments that movies have changed—and not for the better.

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f you questioned the rating of the last PG-13 movie you went to see (typically someone says, “I can’t believe that was PG-13. It seemed like an R movie.”) You were right. A new study shows a “ratings creep” in the United States, according to an article in the Journal of Children and Media based on research at Stonehill College by Ron Leone. His latest study shows that films rated PG-13 today are significantly more violent than those with the same rating a generation ago. Leone and his colleagues analyzed the content of a sample of PG-13 movies from three different years: 1988, 1997 and 2006. They documented each incident of violence, sexual content, nudity, use of adult language

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Fido in Fiji and Hairballs in the Hamptons

STEFAN SANDERLING, MUSIC DIRECTOR

Coffeeconcerts 2011/2012 Season Introducing... Stuart Malina, Coffee Series Conductor “I’m extremely excited to be conducting the Coffee series with The Florida Orchestra this upcoming year. I enjoy making music with this wonderful orchestra, and I’m looking forward to getting to know the audience better in this unique series of concerts.”

ummer travel season is approaching with 62 percent of households owning one or more pets, “What shall we do with the cat and dog?” is now a common question on the checklist of many travelers. Here are tips to help pet owners consider the family pets in their travel planning: Carefully consider if your pets should stay or go. Think about your lodging accommodations and trip agenda. Be sure to verify that your hotel, resort or campground is pet friendly. Hotels impose restrictions that can include the size and number of pets, expensive non-refundable pet fees and rules against pets being left unattended in hotel rooms.

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