Sudden loss of balance
Eyes
Sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes
Face
Sudden facial weakness or drooping
Arms
Sudden weakness or numbness
Speech
Sudden slurred speech or difficulty speaking
4
SECONDS
Someone in the U.S. has a stroke*
*On average
When it comes to stroke, every second matters. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, don’t wait. Get help immediately. Learn the signs and symptoms of a stroke, and the location of your closest BayCare emergency room.
For more information: BayCareStroke.org
Sudden onset of a severe headache 22-2445450-1122
In 1988, President Ronald Reagan declared August 21, 1988 the first National Senior Citizens Day, a day to recognize older folks for their wisdom and achievements. Historically, older folks across the world have been valued for their vast knowledge, life experiences and contributions to civilization. There are 54 million Americans ages 65 and older – almost 17% of the population, and the fastest growing segment of society.
Florida has the second-highest percentage of senior citizens (21%) in the United States and that number is projected to reach 25% in the next few years. Florida also has four of the top 10 cities with the highest senior population — Clearwater, Hialeah, Cape Coral and Miami.
This August 21, spend some time on one of Florida’s beautiful white sand beaches, perfect for die-hard beachgoers and outdoor lovers. (Be sure to wear your sunscreen and stay hydrated!) The water temperature is perfect, almost like a big bathtub. The lovely breeze off the ocean invites picnicking under a big umbrella with lots of watermelon, fresh peaches, and cold tea.
If water sports, sunbathing, beachcombing and hunting for seashells
aren’t your cup of tea, there’s plenty for seniors to do indoors, too. The Straz Center for the Performing Arts in Tampa is showing LIZZIE: The Musical, Showstoppers, and TWILIGHT: Los Angeles 1992. The Manatee Performing Arts Center is showing Something Rotten!, and the Reilly Arts Center in Ocala has a different musical offering each week in August.
Another great way to celebrate is volunteering. Seniors donate a lot of time and money to charity (in fact, seniors are the most charitable age group). Find fun things that give back too at VolunteerFlorida.org.
So, on National Senior Citizens Day, August 21, celebrate a senior or two, including yourself. Spend the day with loved ones or a neighbor, especially if they live alone. And from the staff here at Lifestyles After 50, thank you for all you have done for America!
Lifestyles After 50 Volume 34, Issue 8
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If you love fresh flowers in the house but don’t often have them because they die so quickly, then you’re in luck! There are several easy things you can do to extend the longevity of those petals, whether from your garden or from a shop. Did you know AARP offers a discount on flowers at FTD.com or by calling FTD at 1-833-814-AARP (2277)?
When you buy flowers at a shop or supermarket, they usually come already cut, wrapped, and soaking in a bucket of water. Even so, many florists would advise you to trim the stems as soon as you get home. Here’s why:
Just like all living things, flowers possess a vascular system running through the stems to absorb water and nutrients and transfer them to the petals. During your travel home, the flowers are not submerged in water. This causes air to be drawn into the stems and will block the water absorption once you put them in the vase. To prevent this, cut a half inch (or more) of the stems with sharp pruning shears.
Immediately after trimming, submerge the flowers in the water to prevent more air bubbles from forming. Arrange your flowers into a desirable shape and use a rubber band on the stems before snipping to prevent unnecessary movements after cutting. Remove any leaves that will be located below the water line, as they can rot quickly and spread bacteria to healthy parts of the flower.
You’ll also need to watch the water you’re introducing to fresh flowers. Hot water is one of the worst mistakes
you can make as it will essentially cook the flowers – room temperature water is best. However, slightly cool water can help flowers like daffodils and tulips last even longer.
It is also important to change the water every two to three days (even daily, with certain varieties). As time goes by, the water will become cloudy
and filled with bacteria. Remember to wash the vase when you change the water to remove debris that sticks to the vase wall. It’s also helpful to trim the stems a bit, too, each time you change the water.
Every flower shop has its own secret mixture of flower food. Ask them to sell you some, purchase ready-made packets online, or try making your own at home. Typically, flower food contains three basic ingredients: sugar, acid, and antibacterial products. Sugar provides nourishment. Acid keeps the water pH level low to reduce wilting and help the flowers absorb water better; try citric acid from lemons or crushed vitamin C. The most common antibacterial products are bleach and spirits such as vodka or gin. Another unconventional, yet tried and true, method to keep fresh flowers last longer is by using crushed aspirin (salicylic acid).
BY RANDAL C. HILL
It’s hard to dream of becoming a professional baseball player when you can barely walk, but that didn’t stop Rickey Hill.
The true-life sports drama “The Hill” was written by Angelo Pizzo, who penned the script for “Hoosiers,” the basketball film that USA Today calls the greatest sports film of all time and directed by Jeff Celentano. “I set out to make an iconic film,” says Celentano. “A beautiful, sweeping and powerful inspirational story.”
Rickey Hill (Jesse Berry as young Rickey, and Colin Ford as a teen) grew up dirt-poor in a small Texas town in the 1970s, and from the time he was four years old, Rickey’s older brother pitched rocks that Rickey batted with a stick. (The family budget wouldn’t stretch to a storebought bat and ball). He could hit better than anyone his age, but Rickey was burdened by the clunky leg braces he wore due to a degenerative spinal disease. His high-flown goal of becoming a
baseball phenomenon appeared to be impossible.
His pastor father (Dennis Quaid) hoped his son will follow him into the ministry. Rickey’s career goal, though, is to be the best hitter in pro baseball. “You can’t play baseball!” bellows his father. “You’re gonna get ridiculed and wind up with an injury that you’ll never get over!”
By high school, the hard work pays off when Hill is able to cast off the cumbersome steel braces. As before, none of his peers can match his prodigious batting skills.
At age 18, he has a chance to try out for a major league team, but the opportunity divides his family. His father proclaims that only a miracle could bring Rickey the life he dreams of, but Rickey’s mother (Joelle Carter) explodes, “He’s special! They said he’d never walk and he ran! How many miracles do you need?”
The Briarcliff Entertainment release premieres August 25.
World Senior Citizen’s Day (August 21) is an opportunity to celebrate and appreciate senior citizens for their services, accomplishments, and dedication they have given in their lives.
In 1988, President Ronald Reagan signed the promulgation of 5847, “National Day of the Third Age.” The first celebration of the day was August 21, 1991. The day is intended to increase awareness of the factors and issues that affect older adults, such as health deterioration and elder abuse, but it is also a day to recognize and acknowledge the contributions of older people to society.
“For all that, they have achieved throughout their lives and for all that they continue to do, we owe our gratitude and sincere greetings to our senior citizens. We can show our gratitude and appreciation better by making sure our communities are good places. Age and maturity, places where older people can participate as much as possible and find the encouragement, acceptance, support and services they need to continue living a life of independence and dignity.”
— Ronald Reagan by Kevin Carson
In times past, grandparents were for mini vacations, special treats and extravagant birthday and Christmas gifts. Nowadays, it seems more and more grandparents are becoming extended parents. They are either completely raising the grandchildren or at least helping with school, extra circular activities, homework, school projects and going to teacher conferences.
Tracie Goff – known as Nonnie to her five “grandloves” – is one of these grandmothers who helps with her grandchildren. Some days Nonnie sits in four separate car lines to get her grandchildren to and from school. She acts as the backup transportation system when their parents cannot get them to school or pick them up at the end of the school day.
“Another thing I help with is getting ready for the school year,” says Nonnie. “The supply list seems to get longer and longer each year, and they outgrow their clothes so fast. I look for sales to help bring down the cost.” Nonnie also has a special craft room in her home. “There have been many times where the grands will come down and ask for supplies or ask if I will help them with a project,” she says. Each of her five grandchildren has special and unique needs. “Each grandlove is unique in their own way and has their own likes and dislikes,” she says. “I have a cowgirl, a baseball player, a preacher man, a scientist and an adventurer. Helping meet their needs and honoring their personalities is something I enjoy.”
Recipe adapted from Love and Lemons, image from Love and Lemons
If you’ve never tried watermelon in a savory dish before, you’re missing out! The juicy, fresh melon pairs perfectly with its creamy, spicy ingredients. Of course, substitute your favorites to customize this
Ingredients:
• 5 cups cubed watermelon (about 1” cubes)
• 1 cup peeled cucumber, seeded and diced
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 avocado, peeled and cubed
Dressing:
• 3 Tablespoons olive oil
• 4 Tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1/4 cup fresh mint or basil leaves, chopped
• 1/2 a jalapeno pepper, sliced (optional)
• 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds, toasted walnuts, almonds, or pecans (optional)
Method:
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
• zest of 1 lime
BY: RANDAL C. HILL
In the summer of 1973, Bobby “Boris” Pickett’s original “Monster Mash” reached the American Top 10 for a second time. Pickett sang lead with a Hollywood band called the Cordials. One evening, while performing the old Diamonds’ hit “Little Darlin,’ he delivered the song’s monologue in the voice of Boris Karloff. The audience loved it, and Pickett and bandmate Lenny Capizzi soon decided that such nonsense could become a Halloween novelty tune.
The original title was “Monster Twist,” but at the time Chubby Checker’s “The Twist” was fading and being overtaken by DeeDee Sharp’s dance hit “Mashed Potato Time,” so the lyrics were altered accordingly:
I was working in the lab late one night // When my eyes beheld an eerie sight
For my monster from his slab began to rise // And suddenly to my surprise
(He did the Mash) // He did the Monster Mash (He did the Mash) // It was a graveyard smash
In a small bowl, combine the dressing ingredients and whisk until well combined.
In a large bowl, gently toss all the salad ingredients with the dressing. Serve room temp or cold.
In Pickett’s takeoff of Mary Shelley’s creation, a benevolent monster throws a dance party with other horror-based creatures of lore (Dracula, the Wolfman…). The song came to the attention of Gary S. Paxton, a Los Angeles record producer who had created his own label, Garpax Records.
Paxton devised the sound effects for the one-hour recording session. A coffin lid creaking open was created by pulling a nail out of wood. A bubbling cauldron was really a straw in a glass of water. Chains falling onto the studio floor provided the clatter of clanking shackles.
A hastily assembled Garpax album — “The Original Monster Mash” — climbed into the LP Top 20 and included such blessedly-now-forgotten tracks as “Blood Bank Blues,” “Graveyard Shift,” “Transylvania Twist,” and “Me and My Mummy.”
Pickett claimed that “Monster Mash” sold 4 million copies. “I’ve been paid,” he said, “so I’m gonna believe it.”
Q. Is it true that pesticides are responsible for people getting Parkinson’s disease?
Although genetics is very important in Parkinson’s disease (PD), environmental exposures also increase a person’s risk of developing it. Scientists have known for some time that farm workers who used pesticides, or people who lived or worked near fields where they could inhale drifting pesticides, have an increased risk of PD.
First described in 1817 by British physician Dr. James Parkinson, PD affects 1 in 100 people over the age of 60. (It can also affect younger people, although the average age of onset is 60.) The progression of symptoms may take 20 years or more, but in some people, the disease progresses much more quickly. PD affects at least half a million people in the United States, including 62-year-old actor Michael J. Fox (“Family Ties,” “Back to the Future,” “Stuart Little”).
PD is a complex disorder of the central nervous system. After Alzheimer’s, PD is the second most common neurodegenerative disease in the United States. Its defining symptoms include tremor, slowness of movement, rigidity, and impaired balance and coordination. As these symptoms become more pronounced, patients may have difficulty walking, talking, or completing simple tasks. They also may experience depression, difficulty sleeping and other problems.
In the early 1960s, scientists determined that the loss of brain cells was causing PD. The cells that were depleted produced dopamine, a chemical that helps control muscle activity. Today, PD is treated with drugs and surgery.
Medications for PD fall into three categories:
1) drugs that increase the level of dopamine in the brain;
2) drugs that affect neurotransmitters in the body to ease some of the symptoms;
3) medications that help control the non-motor symptoms such as depression.
Surgical treatments for PD include pallidotomy and thalamotomy, procedures involving removing or destroying parts of the brain that are “misfiring” – in some cases, symptoms of PD can be alleviated.
Because these procedures are invasive, they are usually reserved for severely afflicted Parkinson’s patients who do not get adequate relief from medications and are rarely used today.
A third option is deep brain stimulation (DBS). Scientists have found that they can mimic the effects of pallidotomy by implanting an electrode in the brain in a way that calms the abnormal neuronal firing.
A fourth option is focused ultrasound, a noninvasive procedure. Guided by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), high-intensity, inaudible sound waves are emitted into the brain. Where these waves cross, they create high energy. This high energy creates heat, destroying a very specific area in the brain connected to tremor.
A wide variety of complementary and supportive therapies are also used for PD. Among these are rehabilitation techniques to help with gait and voice disorders, tremors and rigidity, and cognitive decline. Exercise may help people improve mobility.
While Parkinson’s is a complex disease, research has progressed a great deal in recent years. Halting the progression of PD, restoring lost function, and even preventing the disease are now considered realistic goals. For more information, visit the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research at www. michaeljfox.org.
All Rights Reserved © 2023 by Fred Cicetti
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Adapted from a story by Sara Moniuszko, CBS News, updated July 15, 2023
About one in five seniors say they occasionally or consistently sleep in another room from their partner, according to a survey from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM).
The practice of sleeping separately is known as a “sleep divorce,” and is meant to help you fall asleep and stay asleep without disruptions such as snoring, stolen covers or early alarms.
“We know that poor sleep can worsen your mood, and those who are sleep deprived are more likely to argue with their partners. There may be some resentment toward the person causing the sleep disruption which can negatively impact relationships,” Dr. Seema Khosla, a pulmonologist and spokesperson for the AASM. “Getting a good night’s sleep is important for both health and happiness, so it’s no surprise that some couples choose to sleep apart for their overall well-being.”
The group’s survey of 2,005 adults in the U.S. found that 43% of millennials engage in sleep divorce, followed by 33% of those in Generation X, 28% of those in Generation Z and 22% of baby boomers.
“Although the term ‘sleep divorce’ seems harsh, it really just means that people are prioritizing sleep and moving into a separate room at night when needed,” Khosla added.
“There are benefits for some partners to sleep separately,”
Dr. Erin Flynn-Evans, a consultant to the AASM. “Studies demonstrate that when one bed partner has a sleep disorder it can negatively affect the other sleeper. For example… when one has insomnia. Similarly, when… one is a night owl the other is an early bird, these differing sleep preferences can negatively impact both partners’ sleep.”
On the other hand, sleeping with your partner can help in detecting conditions you may have been unaware of, as sleep clinicians use reports from bed partners to help identify sleep disorders.
“For example, a person might report that their bed partner snores loudly, prompting them to seek treatment for sleep apnea,” said Flynn-Evans.
Dr. Daniel Shade, a sleep specialist with Allegheny Health Network, said if couples are honest with themselves, they’ll likely know whether there’s a problem. “You’re snoring and thrashing about… or you have to use the bathroom many times in a night,” Shade said, noting other factors that may also affect sleep, like differing preferences in light, temperature or even TV usage at night.
But, if there are no sleep problems, Shade said sleeping in the same bed is better. “We release oxytocin and some other chemicals that are called ‘the cuddling hormones,’ and things that give us a good feeling and bring us closer to that person… we’re with.”
Mahin Baha, MD Brandon Area Primary Care Brandon Internal Medicine
Anil Bhatia, MD Anil Bhatia, MD Tampa Internal Medicine
Rekha Bhoomi, MD Gulf Coast Primary Care New Port Richey Family Medicine
Elizabeth Biggers, DO Biggers Family Medicine Brandon Family Medicine
Joel Biggers, DO Biggers Family Medicine Brandon Family Medicine
Barbara Calderon, MD veriMED Health Group Carrollwood & Land O Lakes Internal/Geriatric Medicine
Jay Chowdappa, MD Apollo Medical Group New Port Richey Internal/Geriatric Medicine
Jorge T. Cisneros, MD veriMED Health Group Carrollwood & Land O' Lakes Internal Medicine
Inelvis Del Rio Ramos, MD veriMED Health Group Trinity Family Medicine
Jonathan Dychko, MD Health Home Primary Care Sun City Center Internal Medicine
Zubair Farooqui, MD New Tampa Internal Medicine Tampa Internal Medicine
Adam Greenfield, DO ASG Doctors New Port Richey & Port Richey Family Medicine
Ihtasham Habib, MD Internal Medicine Physicians Lutz & Riverview Internal Medicine
John Hanna, MD Internal Medicine MD, LLC Hudson Internal Medicine
Tatiana L. Hernandez, MD Tatiana L Hernandez, MD Trinity Family Medicine
Nadia Jivani, MD veriMED Health Group South Tampa Internal/Geriatric Medicine
Jin M. Kim, DO Jin M Kim, DO Tampa Family Medicine
Miguel Mazariegos, MD veriMED Health Group Bell Shoals in Brandon Family Medicine
Orlando E. Mieles, MD Santurce Medical Center Brandon Primary Care
Osvanny Nodal, MD Nodal Medical Center Port Richey & Tampa Family Medicine
Auxi Peachey, MD veriMED Health Group Riverview Internal Medicine
Octavio Perez-Velasco, MD Octavio Perez-Velasco, MD Tampa Family Medicine
Osmani Piloto, MD veriMED Health Group Sun City Family/Internal Medicine
Orlando Portal, MD Orlando Portal, MD Riverview & Tampa Internal Medicine
Rafael Ramirez-Pepen, MD veriMED Health Group Riverview Internal Medicine
Udayabhsker Reddy, MD Gulf Coast Primary Care New Port Richey Internal Medicine
Al William Robaina, MD RMC Medical Apollo Beach Internal Medicine
Harry Choi, MD veriMED Health Group Brandon Internal Medicine/ Nephrology
Pablo Serrano-Lopez, MD veriMED Health Group Plant City Primary Care
Jason Stibich, MD Brandon Area Primary Care Brandon Internal/Geriatric Medicine
Lisset Maria Suarez, MD Lisset Maria Suarez, MD Tampa Family Medicine
Charles Talakkottur, MD TLC Medical Tampa Internal Medicine
David Thiele, MD veriMED Health Group Plant City Family Medicine
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Vigel Varkey, MD veriMED Health Group Trinity Family Medicine
Zulayne Vera, MD veriMED Health Group North Tampa Primary Care
As with all vintage recipes, use this as a starting point! Feel free to switch out fruits for your own favorites.
Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup cold butter (1 stick)
• 2 1/4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 cup flour
• 8 oz. cream cheese
• 1 cup sugar, divided
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 banana, cut into 1/2” circles
• 2 kiwis, peeled and diced
Method:
• 6-8 fresh strawberries, cleaned and sliced
• 1 fresh peach, peeled and diced
• Maraschino cherries, halved
• 2 Tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
1. Using a blender or two forks, mix the cold butter with the powdered sugar and flour until crumbly. Pat into pizza pan or 9” x 9” pan, going up the sides.
2. Bake 10 minutes at 350 and allow to cool.
3. Beat the cream cheese, 1/3 cup of sugar and vanilla together until creamy. Spread over cooled crust.
4. Arrange cut fruit in a pretty pattern. (Note: Grandma’s recipe says you can also use well-drained canned fruit.)
5. In a small saucepan, combine the cornstarch, pineapple juice, lemon juice, and 1/2 cup of sugar. Cook over medium heat until thick and bubbly. Cool, then pour over the “pizza” to seal the fruit.
Information from Social Security Administration
Q: I will be turning 65, just what is Medicare? (L. Del Monte, Greenacres)
A: Medicare is our country’s health insurance program for people 65+. You may also qualify if you have permanent kidney failure or receive disability benefits.
Parts A and B
Sign up for Medicare through Social Security. You can sign up for Part A only, or both Part A and B.
Part A (hospital insurance)
Part A helps pay for inpatient care at hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and hospice. It also covers some outpatient home health care. Part A is free if you worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years. You may also be eligible because of your current or former spouse’s work.
Part B (medical insurance)
Part B helps cover services from doctors and other health care providers, outpatient care, home health care, durable medical equipment, and some preventive services. Most people pay a monthly premium for Part B. (The exact premium depends on your income level: find out more at Medicare.gov.)
Parts C and D
Private companies run Parts C and D. The federal government approves each plan. Costs and coverage types vary by provider.
Part C (Medicare Advantage)
Part C is known as Medicare Advantage. It’s an alternative to Parts A and B that bundles several coverage types, including Parts A, B, and usually D. It may also include vision, hearing, and dental insurance. You must sign up for Part A or Part B before enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan.
Part D (prescription drug coverage)
Part D helps cover prescription drug costs. You must sign up for Part A or Part B before enrolling in Part D.
As new residents continue to move to Florida in droves, nowhere in the state is growing faster than Sumter County. Sumter added 10,103 residents for a population of 144,970 – a 7.5% increase. Nationwide, Sumter County ranks second in growth for all counties with a population over 100,000, trailing only Kaufman County in Texas. Kaufman, a suburb of Dallas, added 14,150 new residents.
“A place like The Villages is like a unicorn,” said Rich Doty of the University of Florida. “It has a strong brand that continues to attract retirees. And as the people keep coming, other towns are growing, like Wildwood.”
For the sixth consecutive year, The Villages was once again the No. 1 masterplanned community in the United States. The Villages boasts more than 3,100 resident lifestyle clubs run by resident volunteers, 747 holes of golf — more than anywhere else in the world — 113 recreation facilities with 110 pools, 241 pickleball courts and 15 softball fields.
“This is a world-class community that provides its residents with an outstanding lifestyle,” said John Rohan, director of The Villages Recreation and Parks. “There’s a synergy with the vision of what the developer created to allow residents to remain active and healthy. You see it with the accessibility of the recreation centers, the squares and restaurants, the churches and other support centers conveniently located all within the community.”
But it’s the residents themselves who bring the community to life, Rohan said. The appeal of the lifestyle is why about 400 people a month are moving to The Villages. “Nowhere can you go and find what we have here,” says Rohan. “That’s why you see everyone moving here. This is the ultimate residential location to move to. There’s no place like this.”
Do you think you’ve got the cutest pet? Show him or her off in the next issue of Lifestyles! We’re looking for the best dressed and most festive companions that our audience has to offer. See information on how to submit your fur baby for publication below.
Send us a little bit about your pet (100 words or less) along with the best photo in their modeling portfolio and what city you live in to Michele.Baker@lifestylesafter50.com with the words “Cutest Pet” in the subject line, or through our Facebook at www.facebook.com/LifestylesAfter50. Submissions must be before the 15th of every month, otherwise it will be held for a potential feature in the following issue’s publication. Include your name, phone number and Florida city. Submissions are published on a basis of what space is available.
Are you an aspiring writer, poet or artist? Or maybe you want to try your hand at any of the above? We want to share your art! Read directions on how to submit your work below:
Send your short story or poem (150 words or less) or a photo of your artwork to Michele.Baker@ lifestylesafter50.com with the words “Creative Corner” in the subject line, or through our Facebook at www.facebook.com/LifestylesAfter50. Please include which Florida city you currently live in and your name. Artwork must be before the 15th of every month, otherwise it will be held as potential news for the following issue’s publication. Artwork is published on a basis of what space is available.
Riding and competing with horses have been lifelong enjoyable hobbies for Marsha Nelson. Even though she has retired from riding full time and does not compete she still has her pal, Bradley.
The life-long rider receives companionship from Bradley. She is up early every morning to feed and groom him. He is turned out every day depending on the weather. Then it is time for his supper and just before dark Bradley gets a bedtime snack.
While Marsha and Bradly have both retired, they still pal around together. “I will hop on him once in a while as well as the grand kids,” she said. Feeding, grooming and an occasional ride keep the avid horse rider active.
Byron Nelson finds joy and peacefulness in music. He also gets great fulfillment in sharing his love for music with others.
In 2015 he and his wife came to First Baptist Church of Midway. After playing the guitar since he was 14, he learned to play the mandolin because he was told that is what they needed for the Praise Team.
For the last year he has enjoyed coordinating the songs for the Praise Team. After being asked to fill in one Sunday, and since no one told him to stop, he is still on the “job.”
“I guess I’ve got the job and I finally know why the Lord has let me live this long,” Byron explained.
Soon, at 72 years young, Byron has plans to restart his band. The band will play bluegrass, traditional country, gospel and beach style music. “I have all kinds of favorite songs to play and sing.”
My daughter and I are in Kathmandu, the mysterious capital of Nepal. The crowded marketplace is alive with wafting smells from rich Asian spices, incense, and vehicle exhaust. We watch the people as they push the massive bells for prayer.
Our guide Kamil tells us we are in luck. The healer is here today, and we join to watch. A long line of people with different kinds of infirmities are crowded around an area that has numerous bed-like concrete slabs. The healer or doctor, the Dhami Jhankrior, is dressed in a long back overcoat with huge laden pockets.
According to Kamil, the young man we are observing has terrible headaches. As he reclines on one of the concrete slabs, the healer passes something over his head as he closes his eyes and prays for him and calls out evil spirits. He snaps his fingers, and the man jumps up and sees a great light. He pays the healer, who is already getting ready for his next patient.
We move on to our next adventure: the Himalayas from the skies. At 6 the next morning, we fly “Buddha Air” in the smallest plane I have ever seen. Everyone is guaranteed a window because there is only one seat on each side of the aisle.
If one could ever wish for a close encounter of a mountain kind, this is it. Nepal contains most of the highest mountain ranges and shares eight of the world’s ten highest peaks. Taking off from Kathmandu airport, which has the most
rigorous security, we hold our breath at the sound of the loud motor. As we approach the mountains, we follow majestic ranges up and down. We fly between sparkling peaks; yes, we think we can almost touch them. Mountains create unforgiving winds. Is it our imagination that we were suddenly pushed upward? Flying between these mountains can be quite scary.
We then emerge to glimpse lakes and glaciers with clear water flowing down. Suddenly Mount Everest is in front of us. Breathtaking. We are above the clouds. Viewing the mountains from the top of the world is a sobering experience. How humbling: we have experienced an exercise in perspective, capable of making two small humans feel much smaller and even less significant.
The hour passes rapidly. Somehow our fears subside too.
We are now retracing our flight and will land in the airport soon. We had to say this was quite an encounter of a mountain kind. And to remind us, we were given a tee shirt proclaiming, “I flew over the Himalayas on Buddha Air.”
Summer is usually the most anticipated time of the year. People plan their vacations or create off-time to engage in activities usually foreign to other times of the year. It’s a time for taking road trips, or, if you live in Florida, you can sit tight and be visited by northern relatives making their road trips to see you.
1. Heavenly Mlles.
2. Nag
3. Not just tacit 4. Mom, dad, or madam 5. Take place 6. Friend at the école 7. Greek letter
Spring
Bit of cereal
Take advantage of
German article
Personally, I would like to take a long train trip, something other than a mystery dinner theater excursion. My brother and I traveled from Tampa to Cincinnati many decades ago when we were just young whippersnappers, and it was quite an adventure. My wife Joy and I would like to go on another cruise while we’re still young. One highlight of our very first cruise was a formal dinner at a round table, seated with strangers, as we expanded our horizons beyond just us and the two friends we traveled with. People began a discussion of their cruise histories: “this is our seventh cruise,” “this is our tenth,” etc. I chimed in, “This is our first time, and we’re loving it!” A lady with a thick accent yelled to her husband across the table: “Hey Murray! We got a coupla voygins sitting heah!” Gentle mealtime teasing aside, it turned out to be the most relaxing 10 days of our lives, comparable to getting deep neuromuscular massages.
Of all the activities available on that ship, the one we most enjoyed was the art auction. We took home a fair number of paintings, most of which we sold recently to help pay for acupuncture sessions for Joy.
I personally love it at sea, looking in all directions and seeing nothing but horizon, is quite humbling, making one feel small and insignificant. It was nicer than being in the Navy since we weren’t being fired upon, nor were we firing at anyone else. (I know the torpedo rumor was unfounded, because I started it.)
Nowadays, what could be almost as relaxing would be going back to nature and taking a nice, affordable canoe trip down a Florida river teeming with otters, wading birds and other wildlife. I’d make sure Joy was wearing a full life vest, since she now has so much titanium in her she would sink straight to the bottom otherwise. As with the cruise, we would not be firing at anyone nor be fired upon since we’re not paddling in Georgia with banjos playing in the background.
If you have unique cruise memories, share them with Mike at micwrighthamo@gmail.com.
Take Flight | Oct 4 & 5
Natural Wonders | Nov 8 & 9
Mythic Masterpieces | Nov 29 & 30
From the Beginning | Jan 10 & 11
Center Stage | Feb 7 & 8
Waltz Into Spring | May 1 & 2
Packages start at $150. Subscribers save $5 per ticket compared to single-ticket price.
Sunday October 22 for the NASCAR Cup Series 400 . Race time 2:30 p.m. with departures from the Sarasota-Bradenton area and Largo. $249 per person includes grandstand seat in Turn 4, pit pass and roundtrip motorcoach transportation. A portion of ticket proceeds is being donated to the American Legion to benefit Veterans programs. This trip is open to everyone. to purchase.
Exclusive early bird ticket and motorcoach transportation offer to the Daytona 500 Sunday February 18. 3:00 p.m. with departures from the SarasotaBradenton Clearwater-Dunedin, Largo, Seminole and St. Petersburg areas. Just $179 per person includes a race ticket with the ticket value alone of $220. Our package includes your ticket and bus transportation for just $179. A portion of ticket proceeds is being donated to the American Legion to benefit Veterans programs. Option to add UNOH Fanzone/Pre-Race Access for just $86 (a $110 Value) .
ANTONIO & DALLAS
Sunday September 24- Friday September 29. 6 days/ 5 nights includes 3 nights on Riverwalk and 2 nights in Dallas. $2249 per person (double occupancy includes: roundtrip airfare roundtrip airport transportation, five nights lodging including three on the Riverwalk ,nine meals, Tours of San Antonio, Dallas, Fort Worth. Alamo, Imax film “The Price of Freedom”, El Mercardo, private canal barge, Southfork Ranch, George W. Bush Library, Sixth Floor Museum, Cowboys Stadium Tour, Billy Bob’s Texas, free time on the Riverwalk
NEW ENGLAND FALL FOILAGE TOUR
Monday – Friday October2-6 5 days/4 nights $1599 per person (double occupancy) . Round trip transportation to Tampa airport, round trip air from Sarasota to Manchester, NH, motorcoach transportation throughout tour. 4 nights lodging in Tilton, NH, nine meals including a Lobster Bake with entertainment, Ride on the Cog Railroad to the Summit of Mt Washington and back, Cruise on MS Mt. Washington, Guided Tour of Kennybunkport , Walkers Point, Stonewall Kitchen, Scenic train ride with boxed lunch, fully escorted with local tour guide.
NASHVILLE COUNTRY CHRISTMAS at GAYLORD OPRYLAND RESORT
Friday-Monday December 15-18 Nashville Country Christmas $1979 per person (double occupancy). includes roundtrip airfare, roundtrip bus to Tampa Airport, 3 nights lodging at Gaylord Opryland Resort., 6 Meals, four shows including Christmas Dinner show in ballroom at Gaylord Opryland Resort with Darryl Worley and friends, Amy Grant & Vince Gill at the Ryman, General Jackson Showboat Luncheon Cruise with entertainment., Grand Ole Opry, Country Music Hall of Fame, guided city tour of Nashville, Delta Flatboat ride, Treasures for the Holidays, Ice.
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Going to see your doctor is probably never on your list of things to do for fun; however, it’s important in maintaining your health, especially for adults 65 and older. Patients who have an ongoing relationship with their primary care physician have fewer health incidences and unnecessary ER visits. That’s why you need a doctor that you’re comfortable with and who you trust. One you can turn to 24/7.
It can be hard to find that doctor with whom you truly connect. Healthcare has become so rushed. It’s like doctors compete to see the most patients. Sadly, that doesn’t leave much time for one-on-one time.
That was the key difference Dan and Tina DiFrancesco noticed with VIPcare after moving from Pennsylvania.
....
“They make you feel like you’re the only one,” Tina said. “It’s really the first doctor that I’ve had like that.” ....
Dan had two doctors before visiting VIPcare. He admits they were nice but immediately noticed a different experience upon switching.
“The doctors, they care,” he said. “You get an X-ray or something, they call you, ‘how did you make out.’”
By taking the time to know you and your health history, your primary care physician can provide you with the unique care you need and deserve. No more running around from doctor to doctor for answers. Your doctor is your direct link to comprehensive care. ....
“The whole office, they follow up,” Tina said about her VIPcare experience. “The next day, they’re on the phone with you. It’s great.” ....
Real health care is getting you healthy and keeping you healthy. Find a trusted partner in your health and get the care and attention you deserve.
Opened in 1971, Walt Disney World is the most popular theme park in the world, with 20 million visitors annually. In fact, Disney goes above and beyond in making sure every detail of each park is perfect, anticipating your needs and wants, and then placing just the right restaurant, gift shop, or restroom right in your path.
Although there is no senior discount, Florida residents can save big on admission to Orlando’s Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Verify your Florida residency and take advantage of a 4-day park pass for $58 per day plus tax. (There’s also a 3-day pass available.) Or consider a Resident Annual Pass, starting at $399 plus tax (Pixie Dust Pass).
Worried about whether you’d enjoy the parks? Never fear! According to TouringPlans.com (users rate each attraction on a scale of 1-5 stars), the park most likely to be a hit with seniors is EPCOT – four attractions out of the top nine. Five attractions are musical acts (marked with *), including the overall winner, Candlelight Processional. In April 2023, the top attractions for senior adults were:
• Candlelight Processional (EPCOT)* – 4.95
• Mariachi Cobre (EPCOT)* – 4.83
• Kilimanjaro Safaris (Animal Kingdom) – 4.79
• Soarin’ (EPCOT) – 4.77
• Avatar Flight of Passage (Animal Kingdom) – 4.76
• Voices of Liberty (EPCOT)* – 4.72
• Dapper Dans (Magic Kingdom)* – 4.70
• Star Wars Rise of the Resistance (Hollywood Studios) – 4.70
• Fantasmic! (Hollywood Studios)* – 4.70
Disney Parks also have an unwavering commitment to providing a welcoming, inclusive environment and accessible experiences
for all guests. Their Disability Access Service (DAS) assists Guests who have difficulty tolerating extended waits in a conventional queue environment due to a disability by offering them specific times to enter attractions.
There are also many other services available, including strollers, wheelchairs and electronic conveyance vehicles (ECVs) for rent; assistive listening, sign language interpretation, reflective captioning, audio description, audio tours, braille and large print guidebooks, tactile maps, and stationary braille maps; and companion restrooms and break areas.
For seniors, nostalgia and the excitement of taking grandkids to the park are also great motivators. In short, it doesn’t matter if you’re 8 or 80, Disney has no age limit. As Walt himself said, “Laughter is timeless, imagination has no age, and dreams are forever.”
Experience the magic at Disneyworld.com.
Glaucoma is a disease caused by increased intraocular pressure (IOP) resulting either from a malformation or malfunction of the eye’s drainage structures.
Glaucoma is often called “the silent thief of sight” because there is often no pain or symptoms present until noticeable, irreversible vision loss occurs. At St. Luke’s, we have a team of experts to take care of your medical and surgical needs.
