Mature Lifestyles Lake/Marion Nov. 2011 edition

Boomers In Style

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VOLUME 22, NUMBER 11

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USS Alabama

• The Perfect Holiday!

• It’s a Small World After All...

• Into America’s Wild West • Facts On Aging

LAKE • MARION

NOVEMBER 2011

Veterans Day 2011—A Time for Honor The Sole Purpose of Honor Flights: To transport WWII Veterans to Washington, D.C. to be honored at their memorial

Dear Readers,

H

onoring the group Tom Brokaw referred to as our Greatest Generation has become a pasJanice Doyle, sion to some in this Editor country. Among other things, Honor Flights from all across the country daily deliver groups of WWII veterans to Washington, D.C. They go to visit the WWII Memorial, the Iwo Jima Memorial, Arlington Cemetery, the Korean Memorial and the Vietnam Wall. The veterans marvel at the size of the Pentagon, which was built during WWII. And some who go have never flown on commercial flights before.

If all goes as planned, by the time you read this, I will have served as escort to one of three female WWII veterans among the 71 heroes on the fourth Honor Flight of West Central Florida group—watch for story and photos in our December issue.

Honor Flight History In May, 2004, when the World War II Memorial was dedicated in Washington, D.C., some older veterans dreamed of going but realized they would not be able to make the trip. They lacked the ability to make the trip alone, and their families and friends often lacked the resources and time to complete the trip to the nation’s capital.

Mature Lifestyles • November 2011 • page 2

Honor Flights began in 2005 when six small planes flew out of Springfield, Ohio, taking twelve World War II veterans on a visit to the Memorial.

A waiting list of veterans wanting to make the trip led to flights on commercial airline carriers. Today, hundreds of veterans make the trip every week (except during the coldest winter months) and thousands of people support and honor them along the way.

The flights include wheelchairs and walkers for the aging veterans, and loading and unloading the planes and buses takes more time than usual— much more time than it took the men to get around during WWII, for sure.

The Ocala Honor Flight, making its fourth flight late in October, will take 98 veterans. Organizer Jim Hilty says, “We will have 98 veterans, 74 guardians, 6 paramedics, 3 doctors, 3 nurses and other medical staff going.”

Trips are free for the veterans; guardians pay their own way. Hilty says each trip for the Ocala group costs $80,000. Many companies as well as individuals help support the flights financially.

Honor Flights depart (very!) early in the morning and return late at night.

Those from longer distances (like South Dakota, etc.) spend the night in Washington before the flight home.

From the beginning, citizen support for Honor Flights has been terrific!

All across the country, huge groups of ordinary citizens meet at the local airports to cheer for the men and women as they leave and as they return—no matter the hour.

What they say Reports always say the Honor Flights are very moving, beautifully patriotic and an absolute joy to witness.

A guardian from the Midwest told me this about leaving the plane with his veteran after the long day: “This was not a usual 10 p.m. deplaning process. Police and Boy Scouts lined

the walkway saluting each hero. Flags waved. Inside the terminal was a crowd of hundreds—cheering, waving, crying, clapping, smiling, hollering, hugging!

The heroes were in no hurry. They shook hands. They smiled. Johnnie (my veteran) had remained stoic and unemotional all day, but now he truly felt the love and admiration being poured on him. He felt appreciated. A Shriner’s band played the Army Song, the Navy song, the Marine song, the Air Force song. Johnnie just stopped and stared and took it all in. He was finally getting his hero’s ‘Welcome Home,’ 60 years late. After a while he said, “I’m ready to go home now.”

All Honor Flight groups need financial support and volunteers, including citizens to greet the veterans at the airports.

Note: Even though there’s a national Honor Flight website, always get applications and contact information through your local group’s website: Honor Flight West Central Florida: honorflightwcf.org Ocala Honor Flight: ocalahonorflight.org Southwest: pchonorflight.org The Villages: villageshonorflight.org

Amazing Numbers: During WWII, the Coca-Cola Company sent 64 complete bottling plants to locations in Europe, Africa and the Pacific.

Over the course of the War, more than five billion bottles of Coke were distributed to grateful GIs – for a nickel a bottle.

Lake/Marion & Sumter

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H5427_NP_2_FileandUse_09282011 Mature Lifestyles • November 2011 • page 3

Do It Right—See Florida from a Kayak

BY EVELYN MACKEY

P

addle power! Traditional landmarks of old Florida are often best seen from a kayak. Imagine gliding through shallow waters and watching birds flitting about in the branches of Florida trees on the shore. Think of the peace and quiet, the wildlife, Places to paddle abound in central Florida, and Mary Prescott and her company—Florida from a Kayak, LLC—is ready to put you in a kayak

for one of their eco tours.

Mary, owner and operator of the company, says Lake County has 153 miles of blueways.

She finds that seniors are perfect for kayaking, even if they’ve never tried it before. In fact, she says “It’s one of those things people often say they had wanted to do all their lives.”

Prescott says “Kayaking is an ageless sport because it’s a no-impact sport.

You’re not going to do anything that could cause an injury. You get in and paddle, and we’re there when you get back if you need assistance in getting out of the kayak.” She’s also found that women really enjoy kayaking.

Mary and her staff rent visitors what are called sit-on-top kayaks, which are a very stable type of kayak.

The trips are on flat water (most of it only about two feet deep), and “you’re just enjoying the paddle.”

If it sounds perfect, but you’re still not sure, Florida from a Kayak also offers classes and pre-trip mini sessions to make sure people are comfortable with the experience. The guided tours are particularly good for the over-50 group because it provides “a support system for whatever might occur out there.” And what occurs is usually nothing but quiet enjoyment of nature— and perhaps the occasional face-plastering by an unseen and innocent spider web!

Thinking you’d like to experience coastal paddling or go to other parts of the state? Mary will arrange all the details for such trips as well.

On Lake County’s blueways, Florida from a Kayak offers daytime and evening tours; they’ll take you out so you can see whatever it is you’d like to discover about Florida waterways.

Mary’s father, who is 90 years old, is one of their kayakers and two of their regulars are in their 80s. Don’t be afraid to try seeing Florida from a Kayak!

Florida from a Kayak has recently relocated to the Cypress Cove Marina on Lake Minnehaha in Clermont.

For more information, call Mary Prescott at (352) 406-0904 or log on to floridafromakayak.com.

Selecting Clothes for the Boomer Woman I

t’s hard to be women “of a certain age.” Relationships, bodies and fashions change – and here’s the boomer woman trying to decide how to develop a personal style that doesn’t look too young. Worse still, she doesn’t want to look frumpy either.

Writers at Health.com made a list of mistakes boomer women need to avoid. Mistakes include: 1. Not realizing you need to change.

You do!

2. Not accessorizing. Go after jewelry to rejuvenate your look.

3. Wearing “mom” jeans. At any age, it’s time well spent to find well-fitted jeans.

4. Being self-deprecating. Don’t draw attention to “this old thing,” etc.

Mature Lifestyles • November 2011 • page 4

5. Not spending enough on your clothes. That purple button-down shirt on the JC Penny clearance rack is $15.

Why would you shell out $120 for pretty much the same thing at Nordstrom? Because it’s worth it. Clothes that fit right make all the difference in how good you look and feel. If they cost more, it means the designers have more spent time and effort making sure the piece will flatter its owner.

6. Comparing yourself to you 20 years ago. Don’t waste time pining for your “glory” years. Be the woman people say looks better now than she ever did 20 years ago.

7. Thinking there are hair rules.

Hair varies as much as body type, so the same rules don’t apply for everyone. Consult with your stylist —or your friends—to decide what look suits you—just don’t be afraid to change for the better look.

8. Using the wrong makeup. Just because you’ve always used a certain color on your eyes, cheeks or lips doesn’t mean it still looks good. As your face ages, make sure that your makeup choices and application techniques adapt with it.

9. Wearing the wrong bra. Over 80 percent of women wear the wrong bra size. It’s unlikely you’ll stay the same bra size throughout your whole life, so spend 10 minutes and get properly measured at Victoria’s Secret or a department store. The right undergarment can have a huge effect on how the rest of your clothes fit, giving your figure— and your self-confidence—a boost.

Here’s how to do it right!

If these are what you can do wrong, what can you do right?

Kate Forgach has these suggestions for boomer women.

Shop for the right things. Look for tailored outfits that set off your best features without flaunting them.

Well-cut fashions will look pulled together without screaming OLD!

Buy for your curvier shape. Especially larger ladies have a much harder time walking the fine line between too tight and overly ample—and risk looking frumpy if it’s not right. Shop well.

Décolletage doesn’t do well on older bodies. Have a stock of chemises in the closet to fill in the gap of low-cut tops. Old cleavages aren’t usually fun to look at!

Granny arms? Bat wings? Whatever you call them, they’re part of aging.

Cover them with lightweight cardigans with raglan sleeves and slenderizing styles easily available today. And shop thrift stores for great jackets—and love that air conditioning in Florida!

Around Town

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

3

through 27 Theatre production of Steel Magnolias. Ocala Civic Theatre, Ocala. (352) 236-0927.

5

and 6 Mount Dora Plant and Garden Fair. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Free admission. Simpson’s Cove, Mount Dora. Call (352) 729-2170.

10

Gardening Series: Winter Plant Protection. 1 to 2 p.m.

Free admission. 4027 C.R. 106, Oxford. Details at (352) 793-2728.

10

– 12 Honeymoon Italia by the Way, Way, Way Off Broadway Players. 7 p.m. $14. Savannah Center, The Villages. (352) 753-3229.

12

Frank Sinatra from the Central FL Rat Pack, fundraiser for Outward Bound for Veterans. $20.

Lake Ridge Village, 353 Ardice Ave. Eustis. Call (352) 589-2353.

18

through Dec. 11 Theatre production of Sister Amnesia’s Country Western Nunsense Jamboree. Bay Street Players at State Theatre, Eustis. (352) 357-7777.

18

through Dec. 11 Theatre production of Pinocchio at Moonlight Warehouse Theatre, Clermont. Details at (352) 319-1116.

18

through Dec. 18 Theatre production of “Annie.” Ice House Theatre, Mount Dora. (352) 383-4616.

19

Handel’s Messiah by Ocala Symphony Orchestra.

7 p.m. $20. Queen of Peace Catholic Church, Ocala. 20 Same performance—6 p.m. at St. Mark the Evangelist Roman Catholic Church, Ocala. Call (352) 351-1606.

19

through Dec. 31 Exhibit: A Dicken’s Christmas: The Chili and Grilled Cheese Urban Family Collection. Appleton Sandwich Cook-Off. 3 to 7 p.m.

Museum, Ocala. (352) 291-4455.

Main Street Leasing Center, Mount Dora. More info at (352) 383-2165. through Jan. 22 Exhibit:

12 12

Chaplin: A Life in Concert with David Pomeranz. 7:30 p.m. $35. Mount Dora High School. (352) 383-1165 or mountdoraconcerts.com

12

The Leesburg Saturday Morning Market Not So Westminster Dog Show. 9 a.m. to noon. Strut your pooch. Downtown Leesburg. Call (352) 365-0053.

13

WestMUTTster Dog Show.

11:30 a.m. Competition: Best Kisser, Costume Look-a-like, etc. Free admission. Lake County Fairgrounds, Eustis. (352) 978-1343.

19

Katharine Hepburn: Dressed for Stage or Screen. Appleton Museum, Ocala. (352) 291-4455.

29

Pagliacci by Central Florida Lyric Opera. 5 and 7:30 p.m. English subtitles. $25 and $30. Savannah Center, The Villages. Details: (352) 753-3229.

Send Around Town news to Mature Lifestyles Magazine, 1602 S. Parsons Ave., Seffner, FL 33584; fax (813) 6511989. News must be received by the 10th of the month prior to event (i.e.

November 10 for December event.)

Mature Lifestyles • November 2011 • page 5

Great Shows and Performances Scheduled for 2012 at the Circle Square Cultural Center in Ocala, FL The exciting 2012 entertainment line-up at Circle Square

Cultural Center has been released and tickets are now on sale. The Cultural Center, located in beautiful Ocala, FL, hosts world class entertainment year round. The 830-seat venue has featured popular artists such as The Smothers Brothers, Charo, Frankie Avalon, Tony Orlando and many other energetic and fun entertainers. The 2012 winter/ spring schedule will not disappoint! A few highlights:

Lovin’ Spoonful – January 13, 2012 Combining the best of folk music and rock and roll, with a touch of country thrown in, Lovin’ Spoonful gave us such hits as “Do You Believe in Magic,” “Daydream,” “You Didn’t Have to be So Nice,” “Nashville Cats” and the anthem for a hot July evening, “Summer in the City”…all in the span of 4 years and 5 albums. On March 6, 2000 the band was officially inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame.

Lesley Gore – February 24, 2012 One night while performing at The Prince George Hotel, Lesley was discovered by the president of Mercury Records, Irving Green.

Recognizing her talents, Green rushed Lesley into recording a few demos and introduced her to producer Quincy Jones. With Jones’ great production skills and Lesley’s voice, success was fate. Leslie’s first release, “It’s My Party,” topped the charts. The nation was won over and crowned Lesley “Princess of Rock ‘n’ Roll.”

Debby Boone & Orchestra “Swing This” Show – March 23, 2012 Debby Boone’s new Big Band show titled “Swing This” is, in her own words, the party she has waited her whole life to throw. With songs including “Sing, Sing, Sing,” “Get Me to the Church on Time,” and “You and the Night and the Music,” Debby offers her own personal take on the exhilarating Vegas style Swing Songs that inspired her to

21st AnnuAl HolidAy open House

Arts & CrAfts, food, Wine, Live MusiC free AdMission noveMber 11th (10:00 A.M. - 5:00 p.M.) noveMber 12th (10:00 A.M. - 5:00 p.M.) noveMber 13th (11:00 A.M. - 5:00 p.M.)

Wine & CHoColAte FestivAl

feAturing LAkeridge Wines And godivA ChoCoLAte Arts & CrAfts, food, Wine, Live MusiC $2.00 donAtion to the AmeriCAn HeArt AssoCiAtion deCeMber 10th (10:00 A.M.-5:00 p.M.) deCeMber 11th (11:00 A.M.-5:00 p.M.)

Mature Lifestyles • November 2011 • page 6

become a singer in the first place.

The thrilling combination of a Big Band Swing orchestra and Debby’s “playful” vocal abilities demonstrates her “impressive range with jazz standards”, as claimed by The Columbus Ohio Dispatch. Audiences will not be able to resist the urge to get up and “Swing”! The upscale performance by Debby plus a 11-piece orchestra promises to bring “big city” performance to Ocala.

Plus, see who can “Fill the Blue Suede Shoes™” at an exciting and fun Elvis tribute artist contest on March 3rd!

These electrifying performances are sure to entertain audiences of all ages.

For more information on the 2012 entertainment line-up including times, dates and tickets, visit our website at www.

CSCulturalCenter.com or call 352-854-3670. The Circle Square Cultural Center is located at 8395 SW 80th Street in Ocala.

One in Four Older Americans Makes Community Impact T

he Corporation for National and Community Service indicates that 18.7 million older adults—more than a quarter of those 55 and older—contributed on average more than 3 billion hours of service in their communities per year between 2008 and 2010. The yearly economic benefit of this service to the nation equals more than $64 billion.

Robert Velasco II, acting CEO of the Corporation for National and Community Service said, “We celebrate the impact of the more than 450,000 Senior Corps volunteers who are helping to solve problems ranging from poverty and illiteracy to helping seniors continue to live independently.”

Three Senior Corps programs—Foster Grandparents, RSVP and Senior Companions—contribute to the health and vitality of their communities by meeting critical local needs.

Last year 29,100 Foster Grandparent

volunteers provided one-on-one tutoring or mentoring to more than 200,000 at-risk children.

RSVP, Senior Corps’ largest program, celebrates its 40th anniversary this year and engages more than 400,000 volunteers served 62 million hours through more than 65,000 organizations.

Senior Companions support independent living of older adults. Last year, 14,684 Senior Companion volunteers provided 12 million hours of service to more than 60,000 elderly adults, allowing them to maintain independent living in their own homes.

To learn more about these programs, visit GetInvolved.gov. To read volunteer stories, check out the national service blog at NationalService.gov.

To learn more locally, please call RSVP of Lake/Sumter Counties at (352) 365-1995 or RSVP of Marion County at (352) 291-4444.

Mature Lifestyles • November 2011 • page 7

Thanksgiving—the Perfect Holiday

BY JANICE DOYLE

• Except for the WWII years of 1939 to 1944, the Detroit Lions have hosted a football game every Thanksgiving since 1934.

I

t’s easy to love Thanksgiving Day as a holiday. It’s not political, and you don’t have to buy gifts for anyone.

It’s a holiday with a few longstanding traditions, all fairly innocent in the long run. It’s just about a big meal with a few standard dishes, morning parades and afternoon football. No gifts, just family and friends. No big expense for decorations, just a pumpkin or two sitting around and a pie in the oven.

I keep hearing it called “Turkey Day.” Good grief! Every major religion’s checklist surely includes being thankful. Can we really have become a nation running scared of saying and showing thankfulness? I don’t think so.

Here are a few ideas to make your Thanksgiving Day interesting.

Turkey Trivia: • The long fleshy skin that hangs over a turkey’s beak is called a snood.

• The color of a wild turkey’s naked head and neck area can change to blue when mating.

• When turkeys reach maturity they can have as many as 3,500 feathers!

• John F. Kennedy spared a turkey on November 19, 1963, three days before he was assassinated. There was at that time no tradition of turkeys being granted presidential pardons around Thanksgiving; Kennedy simply did it spontaneously.

• Faster than a speeding bullet—wild turkeys can run up to 55 miles an hour!

• Approximately 88 percent of Americans eat turkey on Thanksgiving, but more than 94 percent of Thanksgiving dinners include cranberry sauce.

• In the past ten years, more men are enjoying cooking the traditional Thanksgiving meal.

• The busiest air travel day of the year in America is the Sunday after Thanksgiving. The second-busiest day is the Wednesday before.

• For the first few years of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade, animals from the Central Park Zoo marched along with bands, other entertainers and store employees. 1927 saw the appearance of the first big-animalshaped floats, such as Felix the Cat, but they were filled with air, not helium.

The following year, floats were filled with helium. The rest is history.

Thanksgiving Jokes To Share The pro football team had just finished their daily practice session when a large turkey came strutting onto the field. While the players gazed in amazement, the turkey walked up to the head coach and demanded a tryout.

Everyone stared in silence as the turkey caught pass after pass and ran right through the defensive line. When the turkey returned to the sidelines, the coach shouted, “You’re terrific! Sign up for the season, and I’ll see to it that you get a huge bonus.”

“Forget the bonus,” the turkey said, “All I want to know is, does the season go past Thanksgiving Day?

Q: What’s a turkey’s favorite song?

A: “I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas”

An industrious farmer was experimenting with breeding to perfect a better turkey.

His family was fond of the leg portion for dinner and there were never enough legs for everyone. After many frustrating attempts, the farmer was relating the results of his efforts to his friends at the general store get together.

“Well I finally did it! I bred a turkey that has six legs!”

They all asked the farmer how it tasted.

“I don’t know,” said the farmer. “I never could catch the darn thing!”

Mature Lifestyles • November 2011 • page 8

Frank Sinatra’s Special Thanksgiving

On the day Frank Sinatra died in 1998, Patsy’s Restaurant in New York City was packed with his friends and fans. Why? It was his favorite restaurant. Here’s the story: Sinatra’s career and personal life was in a serious decline in 1952 before his Oscar-winning performance in From Here to Eternity and before his reinvention as a crooner of the 1950s from his boy next door image of the 1940s. Patsy’s Restaurant owner and chef Scognamillo says Sinatra was alone at the restaurant the night before Thanksgiving, and many of the other customers walked right past him without acknowledging him. He was depressed.

Sinatra said he wanted to eat Thanksgiving dinner at Patsy’s, and the owner didn’t have the heart to tell him that the restaurant was normally closed for the holiday. They made the reservation, called up the staff and told them to bring their families in for Thanksgiving and invited some other guests to fill out the restaurant.

They opened for Thanksgiving for Sinatra who had a 3 p.m. reservation, and only later did Sinatra find out that it had been opened just for him.

Final Thought

Take time to be thankful.

Remember the words of this old hymn: Count your many blessings; name them one by one.

Count your many blessings; see what God hath done.

Count your blessings, name them one by one, And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.

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Y0070_NA015979_72675_WCM_ADF_ENG File and Use 09172011 ©WellCare 2011 EH05_FL069_LAKE_11/1/2011 NA_08_11 J30751_W40888_EH05_10x9.8125_ENG_NE_WG_MLEF_110111_72665.indd 1

10/11/11 AM 9 Mature Lifestyles • November 201111:07:21 • page

Introducing

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IMPORTANT CONSUMER INFORMATION: DoubleTime offer valid on Basic 19 plan and applies to new Jitterbug customers only. Offer ends 1/3/12. Offer valid until plan is changed or cancelled. Jitterbug is owned by GreatCall, Inc.Your invoices will come from GreatCall. All rate plans and services require the purchase of a Jitterbug phone and a one-time set up fee of $35. Coverage and service is not available everywhere. Other charges and restrictions may apply. Screen images simulated.There are no additional fees to call Jitterbug’s 24-hour U.S. Based Customer Service. However, for calls to an Operator in which a service is completed, minutes will be deducted from your monthly balance equal to the length of the call and any call connected by the Operator, plus an additional 5 minutes. Monthly rate plans do not include government taxes or assessment surcharges. Prices and fees subject to change. 1We will refund the full price of the Jitterbug phone if it is returned within 30 days of purchase in like-new condition. We will also refund your first monthly service charge if you have less than 30 minutes of usage. If you have more than 30 minutes of usage, a per minute charge of 35 cents will apply for each minute over 30 minutes. The activation fee and shipping charges are not refundable. Jitterbug is a registered trademark of GreatCall, Inc. Samsung is a registered trademark of Samsung Electronics America, Inc. and/or its related entities. Copyright © 2011 GreatCall, Inc. Copyright © 2011 by firstSTREET for Boomers and Beyond, Inc. All rights reserved.

Mature Lifestyles • November 2011 • page 10

The USS Alabama—“Damn the Torpedoes, Full Speed Ahead”

BY DAVID LALMOND

M

obile Bay went into U.S. Naval history because of the famous order issued by Admiral David Farragut at the Battle of Mobile Bay during the American Civil War: “Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead!” Through the years, the saying became a part of American slang—it felt good to use the word “damn” and have it be in a famous quote. Who could argue with that?

Keeping Mobile military history alive today is the WWII Battleship USS Alabama (BB60) which rests in Mobile Bay as a part of Battleship Memorial Park. The ship served in the Pacific during WWII, earning nine Battle Stars and shooting down 22 enemy airplanes.

A tour of the Alabama is an impressive experience.

The massive warship is 680 feet long (half as long as the Empire State Building is tall) and displaces more than 44,500 tons of water.

Each of her four propellers weighed more than 18 tons and combined could move her through the water at speeds of up to 28 knots (32 mph). The Alabama is 194 feet tall (more than a 20-story building).

Visitors have access to every part of the ship and see what conditions the sailors had to endure during their time aboard. Today’s visitor can walk the decks. From the main deck there are seven decks to explore upward and four decks below the main deck that are open to explore.

Three tour routes are suggested and they include the bridge, the galley, the bunks and even a visit to the brig.

Many visual displays of memorabilia bring memories of days past to visitors, especially former members of the Navy.

Uniforms and equipment authentic to the naval service are displayed.

The stories of men who served aboard the Alabama are presented in a video that runs continuously aboard the ship.

The Alabama has been used for various events including the Hollywood movie “Under Siege.” On the grounds of the park there are displayed many aircraft of vintage WWII through Iraqi Freedom. Also for visitors is a WWII submarine, the USS Drum (SS-228).

You may walk the deck and “go below” while visiting the submarine that earned 12 Battle Stars during WWII. The Alabama, the Drum and the museum are great places to take grandchildren for a half day of exploration. There are no elevators.

Veterans Promotion— AARP Driving Course is Free during November

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ny military personnel—active duty, retired, guard, or reserve —is eligible to receive a free DSP (Driver Safety Program) classroom course during November. Spouses (including widows and widowers) are also eligible to take the class as space permits.

All registrations will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.

The offer does not apply to Online Courses. There are no exceptions to this rule.

To locate a course, call the national toll free number 1-888-227-7669 or online at aarp.org/findacourse.

You never have to set this watch… in fact you never even have to look at it.

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I

just threw my watch in the “Ten-ten AM, trash. I got it as a gift a while Thursday, back—and it was something October 27th, else. It had four different 2011” 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 easy-to-understand voice. So whether tell the time even if it was accurate. you’re driving to an appointment or When I tried to reset it, I pushed the dining in a candlelit restaurant … you wrong button and set it on military time, are sure to know the exact time. Press and I couldn’t figure out how to switch it the button again and it will even tell you back. That was the last straw. Now, I’ve the day and date if you want. There’s got a great watch. It’s super-accurate, even an automatic hourly chime. easy-to-read, and it will even tell … yes tell … me the time. Best of all, I’ll never Try it for yourself… it’s risk-free. have to set it! This is the watch I’ve The US Atomic Clock cost billions to been waiting for. build and maintain, but you can have the next best thing for less than one Whether you travel or not… this watch is hundred dollars. Thanks to a special a necessity. This Talking Atomic Watch arrangement with the manufacturer, from firstSTREET maintains its we can offer you this watch at a phenomenal accuracy because it is special price with our exclusive designed to receive a signal from home trial. If you are not completely the US Atomic Clock in Fort Collins, amazed by the accuracy and quality Colorado. This clock is the standard of this product, simply return it within for time measurement worldwide… it 90 days for a “No Questions Asked” can go 20 million years without gaining refund of the product purchase price. or losing a second! It never needs to Call now. be set, because it automatically adjusts itself for daylight savings time and leap years.

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Mature Lifestyles • November 2011 • page 11

What Makes RAO a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence?

It Starts With The Quality, Expertise And Accuracy Of Full Service Imaging

T

he chance of a woman having invasive breast cancer during her lifetime is about one in eight.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States, making annual screening mammograms more important than ever. For many women, there is some confusion about when and where they should get a mammogram.

The doctors at Radiology Associates of Ocala (RAO) agree with the American Cancer Society and the American College of Radiology that women have their first mammogram between the ages of 35 and 40 to establish a healthy baseline, then continue to have them every year from age 40 to catch changes early when they’re smaller and easier to conquer.

mammography creates sharper, faster images, enhanced viewing angles, immediate storage and transfer to your doctor, easy comparison with previous exams, shorter exam times and the potential for less exposure to radiation.

Sometimes your self-exam, doctor’s exam or mammogram may indicate a change in your breast tissue, requiring more extensive testing. Of course you want answers that are quick, accurate and in the hands of doctors with exceptional experience. RAO has 35+ years serving the Marion County area and a team of 17 Board Certified radiologists, including specialists in the most sophisticated and extensive breast imaging technologies available, including:

• Breast MRI –When used in conjunction with mammography, Why digital mammography is better a breast MRI can provide valuable The benefits of digital over tradiinformation for the detection and RAO_PACS_MatureLife_webpromo.pdf 9/20/11 9:41:52 AM tional film are clear. RAO’s digital characterization of breast disease.

Mature Lifestyles • November 2011 • page 12

• Breast Ultrasound – Breast ultrasound uses painless, noninvasive high-frequency sound waves to capture pictures of internal structures of the breast.

• Stereotactic Biopsy – When a tumor or nodule is captured by mammogram or ultrasound but is too small to be felt, stereotactic biopsy (using x-ray guidance) is used to find its exact location so your RAO doctor can carefully guide a biopsy needle to obtain tissue for testing.

• Ultrasound-Guided Biopsy – When a breast ultrasound or mammogram shows an abnormality, ultrasound guidance is used to direct the doctor’s instruments to the site of the abnormal growth so that a tissue sample can be taken.

In addition to providing comprehensive breast imaging services,

RAO is the only local imaging center to use Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS), giving your doctor immediate access to your imaging results. We are the only centers with hospital privileges at Munroe Regional Medical Center, Ocala Regional Medical Center, and West Marion Community Hospital.

These are among the reasons that RAO’s Women’s Imaging Center and TimberRidge Imaging Center have been named among Florida’s elite 5% of Breast Imaging Centers of Excellence by the American College of Radiology. We think our caring and understanding play a big role, too.

RAO offers digital mammography without a doctor’s referral and hours designed to fit your schedule. Call us any time for an appointment and discover the difference a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence can make.

For more info, call (352) 671-4300.

Tried-and-True Advice for Medicare Enrollment

I

f there’s one mantra for the open enrollment season, it’s “review your options.” Every year, the Medicare Rights Center advises people with Medicare to carefully consider how they get their Medicare benefits; most people are allowed to make a change only during Fall Open Enrollment (through Dec. 7). Certain universal advice applies, no matter what Medicare coverage you have:

• Review all of your coverage options even if you are happy with your current coverage because plans change their costs and benefits every year.

• Read your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC), which lists changes in your

plan, such as the premium and copays, and will compare the benefits in 2012 with those in 2011. Many plans make changes every year, and your current plan may not be your best choice for 2012.

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• Shop around to find a plan that best meets your needs and makes the most financial sense to you.

If you have Original Medicare and a supplemental plan (often called a Medigap) and are happy with your coverage, you do not need to make a change.

If you decide to enroll in a new plan, do so by calling 800-MEDICARE rather than the plan itself.

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All proceeds benefit patient care at Cornerstone Hospice.

CORNERSTONE HOSPICE SEEKING DONORS OF REAL ESTATE If you have been thinking about making a substantial gift to CORNERSTONE HOSPICE Cornerstone Hospice – perhaps you should consider Real Estate.

A gift of cashOF or securities this time may not be practical.Your SEEKING DONORS REALatESTATE personal residence, farm, vacation home, commercial property,

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For more information on “How to Give Real Estate,” contactMature Lifestyles • November 2011 • page 13 Ted Williams at Cornerstone Hospice:

Sleep and Aging A

University of Chicago research team kept a group of healthy young college men in their 20s up until one o’clock in the morning every night for six nights. Then they woke them at five in the morning. After just six nights with only four hours of sleep, the young men had the cortisol levels typical of men in their 60s.

Simply put, chronic sleep loss or inadequate sleep is aging and disease promoting, according to the book The Life Extension Revolution by the Life Extension Foundation.

They offer these helps for those with occasional or chronic insomnia:

l. In general, vitamins tend to be

stimulating, while minerals are lightly sedating. Take your vitamins in the morning and any additional mineral supplements at night.

2. Baths with Epsom salts can also

help promote sleep. The salts contain high amounts of magnesium, which is absorbed through the skin. Use several

handfuls of Epsom salts in a bath of warm water and soak for 15 to 20 minutes.

3. Exercising in the evening can create a surge of stimulating hormones that make it difficult to fall asleep. Try to exercise in the morning or afternoon.

4. If your hormone regimen calls

for progesterone, take it in the evening as it tends to be sedating.

5. Melatonin is a hormone produced

by the pineal gland that can help induce sleep by regulating the body’s circadian rhythms (the synchronization of our sleep/wake cycles with day and night). Published studies have found that 3 mg of melatonin at bedtime can increase the speed of falling asleep, the duration of sleep and the quality of sleep.

Alzheimer’s Caregivers Online C

aring.com is an online destination for family caregivers. The website includes Steps & Stages™ which includes a custom care guide, stage-based newsletter and online support groups for caregivers.

After completing a brief stage assessment, each caregiver receives a personalized care

guide which can be updated as new symptoms arise.

Stage Groups connect caregivers whose loved ones are at a similar stage of dementia, a place where caregivers can share their experiences, get advice, feel less isolated and laugh and cry with those who understand.

To join, visit caring.com/ alzheimers-support.

Elder Helpline 1-800-963-5337 www.agingflorida.com Mature Lifestyles • November 2011 • page 14

A Clear Vision of Age-Related Macular Degeneration

BY STEPHEN ROSE, PH.D.

But as the disease advances, they may experience blurring in their central vilurry vision and blind spots sion, especially during detail-oriented may be more than just signs of tasks like reading. Doctors diagnose aging—they can be indicators of AMD by identifying yellow deposits age-related macular degeneration called drusen that collect underneath (AMD). This complex disease affects the retina. Most people initially suffer more than 10 million Americans and from dry AMD, which occurs when is the leading cause of blindness for the cells in the eye’s macula slowly people over 50. Promising research break down to gradually blur central is advancing new treatments and vision. Some cases of dry AMD teaching us more about the disease, progress to the wet form, which causes but people must take preventive rapid, advanced vision loss because measures and understand the imporabnormal blood vessels grow under tance of early diagnosis to protect the macula and leak blood and fluid. their sight; especially as aging baby A person seeing straight lines as wavy boomers are becoming more at risk. is a classic symptom of wet AMD. Genetics often play a role in AMD, but the heredity link is complicated as many people develop the condition without family history of it, while Early diagnosis depends on detecting those with affected parents may warning signs and making regular vis- never suffer vision loss. A number of its to an ophthalmologist. A person suf- additional factors are associated with fering from the early stages of AMD AMD, including cigarette smoking, may not notice changes in their vision. bright sunlight, cardiovascular disease,

B

Health

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hypertension and diet.

The National Eye Institute conducted the AgeRelated Eye Disease Study (AREDS), which found that a dietary supplement containing a combination of vitamins and minerals reduced people’s risk of developing advanced AMD. The supplement is available over the counter, but should only be taken after consulting a doctor. Studies have also linked consuming lower amounts of dietary fat to decreased chances of developing advanced AMD. Foods high in healthy omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish and nuts, as well as colorful vegetables rich in carotenoids may also help prevent AMD. Current research holds promise for new AMD treatments. The biopharmaceutical company Advanced Cell Technology recently launched a clinical trial of a cellular therapy derived from stem cells that could preserve

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and restore vision of AMD patients. Oxford BioMedica is conducting a gene therapy human study that could be a long-lasting approach to halting vision loss from AMD, with only a single treatment. And, Regeneron is seeking FDA approval of a therapy for wet AMD that requires less frequent treatment injections than existing treatments like Lucentis, which is FDA-approved for AMD, and Avastin, a cancer drug which is often prescribed off label to AMD patients.

Dr. Stephen Rose is the Chief Research Officer for the Foundation Fighting Blindness, a national nonprofit dedicated to advancing research for AMD treatments and the entire spectrum of retinal degenerative diseases. Additional AMD information and research updates are available at FightBlindness. org or by calling (800) 683-5555.

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(352) 787-3034 Mature Lifestyles • November 2011 • page 15

When the Nurse Comes to Your House

BY FRANCES C. HANSEN

T

he scene is getting increasingly familiar. A knock on the door and the patient opens up to a strange person with a couple of bags hanging off her shoulders. “Hello. I’m your home care nurse.” From total knee replacements to infected wounds and from pneumonia to post-operative status, home care is on the increase.

With limitations on the number of days people can stay in the hospital for specific diagnosis, technical assistance has found its way into the home.

What do patients and families look for when the nurse comes to their home? At their door is another stranger in the medical field with which they must establish trust. With staffing down in all areas, patients may, in fact, see several nurses during the course of their recovery.

In essence, home care has become like a mini-hospital on wheels with the objective being to

teach, comfort and prevent further complications that might mean going back into the hospital.

The nurse usually comes in on the day of hospital discharge or the next day to see you, the patient. You must endure the home visit, which can take up to two hours and even longer if the nurse hasn’t honed her interview skills. The patient then will undergo a head-to-toe assessment.

The nurse needs to ensure that the patient understands proper medication, dosage, side effects and changes to report to the physician. Follow-up visits to the doctors are documented.

Patients may be assisted with appointment calendars and medication pre-pours. Do they understand their diagnosis and treatment? Are they compliant with their blood sugar checks as the doctor ordered?

The nurse establishes a care plan with the patient, including how many visits are anticipated in the sixty-day certification period and specific steps

of care to follow. Patients must be educated on changes to report to the medical staff, signs of infection and other diagnosis-specific functions.

If the patient needs care beyond the certification period, orders are obtained from their physician to extend it, all within compliance with Medicare and Medicaid guidelines or private insurance authorization.

Physical therapy, occupational therapy or social work may follow.

The aim is to guide the patient and their family to independence.

Patient and Nurse Responsibilities It is important for the patient and family to realize the truth that the health providers are there to serve them, not the other way around. If they find that the nurse is rude and seemingly has no “bedside” manner, they need to speak up about it.

Someone close to the patient may help mediate between the patient and the nurse.

Time is another factor. The nurse is a professional and should demonstrate responsibility when it comes to arranging the visit time and then be there on time or let the family know they’ll be late. The patient needs to understand that the nurse has others to see and that she schedules patients to work progressively in the area. Openness and honesty are important. No questions should be off limits, such as knowing the purpose of a medication—even if the nurse needs to investigate it with the physician. It could be that you don’t need the medication anymore.

In summary, an informed patient is a happy patient. Less anxiety by the patient and more trust in the home nurse help the healing process. Open communication is a must for both sides.

Hopefully the time of recovery in your home will become a thing of the past that you can look back on with accomplishment and satisfaction, knowing that you participated in the plan of care to help yourself get better.

Prostate Cancer: Take Control of Your Health

BY CONSTANTINE MANTZ, M.D.

E

ach day in the United States, 579 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer. In Florida, 38 men are diagnosed every day. According to the National Cancer Institute, the number of men diagnosed with prostate cancer is greater than that of women diagnosed with breast cancer on an annual basis. Approximately 32,000 men die of prostate cancer annually.

Men need to understand the risks of prostate cancer, testing and diagnosing, treatments available and how to determine the right treatment plan for each individual. It also means raising awareness to help catch prostate cancer early, as well as raising much needed funds for treatment and research.

Doctors at The Prostate Cancer Institute in Fort Myers suggest these steps men can take today to improve their health: Mature Lifestyles • November 2011 • page 16

• Take control of your health care with regular medical check-ups. Understand your risk of developing prostate cancer.

• Build a relationship of trust with your physician(s). Ask questions and demand answers.

• If diagnosed with prostate cancer, understand your treatment options and even whether or not treatment is absolutely necessary.

• If you are referred to a treatment center, ask questions about who owns the center and if there is a financial relationship between the doctor and the center. Understand your rights about where you can go for treatment.

• Become an advocate for men’s health. Speak up and get involved.

Constantine Mantz, M.D. is a radiation therapist and director of research at 21st Century Oncology.

More at MensCancerCenter.com.

Home, Safe Home C

reating a safe home is easy and inexpensive. Here are a few tips you can implement to ensure your family’s safety: • Keep your air conditioning system in good shape and free of leaks, which could cause falls, by having it professionally cleaned and checked annually.

• A malfunctioning air conditioning system can allow mold to grow in your home, presenting health risks.

Change your filters monthly.

• Visually check your water heater annually for signs of rust or leaking.

If it’s more than five years old, check it monthly. If it’s leaking or signs of rust are found, contact a professional to replace the water heater.

• Change the batteries on your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms at least once a year. Test them every six months to make sure they work.

• To avoid a fire, clean your dryer filter after every load. Also, clean

the dryer’s exhaust duct and regularly check under the dryer to remove dust and debris as needed.

• Visually inspect the hoses on your clothes washer, dishwasher and ice maker for signs of bubbles or cracks.

• Keep cooking appliance surfaces clean to prevent grease build up that can also cause a fire.

• It is always a good idea to have a fire extinguisher in the house—and to know how to properly use it.

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Mature Lifestyles • November 2011 • page 17

Top Five Mistakes in Evaluating Assisted-Living Facilities

HOME LIGHTINGBreakthrough

A floor lamp that spreads sunshine all over a room.

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The Balanced Spectrum® floor lamp brings many of the benefits of natural daylight indoors for glare-free lighting that’s perfect for reading.

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tudies show that sunshine can both lift your mood and enhance your energy levels. But as we all know, the sun does not always shine. Now, however, there’s a solution to the problem– The Balanced Spectrum® floor lamp will change not only the way you see, but also the way you feel about your living and work spaces.

It brings the benefits of natural daylight indoors, simulating the full spectrum of daylight.

Experience sunshine indoors at the touch of a switch. This amazing lamp is not only easy on the eyes, it is easy on the hands as well, featuring a special “soft-touch, flicker-free” rocker switch that is easier to use than traditional toggle or twist switches. And its flexible gooseneck design enables you to get light exactly where you need it. The hightech electronics, the user-friendly design, and a bulb that lasts 10 times Technology revolutionizes the light bulb • Save almost $61 over the life of the bulb • 8,000 hours bulb life • Energy efficient • Shows true colors

longer than an ordinary bulb–all these features make the Balanced Spectrum® floor lamp a must-have.

Try the Balanced Spectrum® floor lamp for the best value ever! Now more than ever is the time to spread Mature Lifestyles • November 2011 • page 18

Retirement Living

sunshine all over the room in your home at this fantastic low price!

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The Balanced Spectrum’s 27-watt compact bulb is brighter than a 100-watt ordinary light bulb. With the lamp’s sharp visibility, you will see with more clarity and enjoyment in close tasks such as reading, writing, sewing, and needlepoint. It is especially helpful for aging eyes.

n his new book titled What Your Doctor Won’t Tell You about Getting Older, Mark Lachs, M.D., writes an insider’s survival manual for outsmarting the health-care system.

As the Director of Geriatrics for a hospital, he says he has seen many mistakes made when a family decides to move patients. Here are his “top five” mistakes patients and families make in evaluating assisted-living facilities:

most care possible” is the considerate thing to do.

What this may do is put him or her in an overly restrictive environment where their skills may deteriorate.

An example: a patient gets a wheelchair and then stops walking. It’s easier than physical therapy, but it may create excess disability.

3. Overemphasizing amenities and décor: Some impressive long-termcare facilities are nothing to look at.

Conversely, some beautiful places may leave a lot to be desired on the care front. Balance your investigation.

1. Underestimating care needs: Often adult children have not lived with a parent or been around them enough to have a good picture of how someone is really functioning. It’s often, he says, only when a caregiving spouse dies or needs to be hospitalized that the full extent of impairment becomes unmasked because that spouse has been filling in the gaps.

4. Failing to consider the impact of geography and social networks: Having to make new friends is difficult and anxiety-producing at any age. And remember that many people won’t visit a person in a facility, so buddies may be left behind, creating social isolation. Families may select a place based on appearances or amenities and then not be able to see Mom very often because the distance is too great for the family’s schedule.

2. Overestimating care needs: The other side of the coin is that patients may be placed in nursing homes when they could have received the care they needed at a good assisted-living facility or even at home with some augmented services. Families may think that getting Mom or Dad “the

Mark Lachs, M.D., is Director of Geriatrics, New York Presbyterian Health System.

5. Overall poor due diligence: The decision to move to a facility is one of the biggest decisions you will ever make or help make. It needs to be treated seriously and thoroughly.

The USPS Decline W

ith technology fast taking the race with the USPS, the Postal Service continues to maintain its enormous pre-technology infrastructure, both human and mechanical.

According to an article in The New York Times, The Postal Service has 574,000 employees (nation’s second-largest civilian

employer, after Wal-Mart), runs 215,625 vehicles (world’s largest civilian fleet) which cover 1.25 billion miles annually and consume 399 million gallons of fuel. Its carriers serve 151 million homes, businesses and post office boxes.

Stamped mail declined 47 percent since 2001 and junk mail dropped only 8 percent over the same period.

To Have a Will or Not Have a Will?

Dr. Marion Answers The Question “H

ow important is it to have a will?”

– Jeremy in Georgia, 67

A

will is a crucial document that must be taken care of well in advance of the end of your elder’s life. Do not allow your elder to die intestate (without a will). When your elder doesn’t have a will, the state may take over. It can become very complicated, and you’re sure to lose a hefty percentage of the true value of the estate. By making a will and assigning power of attorney, an elder will feel comforted that his/ her wishes will be carried out.

Finance Wills are often changed, so be ready to execute more than one

document over time. And remember, anytime someone signs a will, there must be a witness. The original should be kept with the lawyer and a copy should be included with your elder’s other legal documents.

Complications also arise when a second family or step-family is involved. All variables should be well thought out, such as who is included and not included in the will. One way to leave someone out of a will is to give them $1. This way, they can’t say they were overlooked or that your elder was incompetent. A plan was put in place to include them. I’ve seen this happen far too frequently. Anyone who contests a will can hold up the process for years, even if they have limited legal grounds to stand on.

It’s very important to appoint the right person as executor or executrix of the will. Your elder must have

Properly Liquidate a Loved One’s Home W hen a loved one will no longer be returning to their home, the family needs to secure the assets in the newly abandoned home. Here’s how: • Secure the contents by changing the locks since you don’t always know who may have keys.

• Remove gold and precious stone jewelry from the house.

• Remove small valuable items such as sterling silver flatware, gold pocket watches, etc.

• Have an appraiser identify items of significant value to be transferred to a more secure location.

• After this process, the family needs to look for money which may be hidden in the house.

• Start in the bedroom closet.

Look in pockets, linings, shoe boxes, old purses, zippered compartments, etc.

• Check dressers, commonly top drawers.

• In the rest of the house, look for cookie jars, false bottom cans, freezer areas including ice cube trays for jewelry and coins.

• In the garage, look for canning jars and cans which may have been used to hide money.

When you liquidate items of unusual value, make sure you know the market value of the item by using a professional estate liquidator and/or estate sale company.

Information from Dale Smrekar, Professional Estate Liquidator. Call (813) 244-4160 or visit online at downsizingadvisoryservice.com.

confidence that he or she will carry out the full instructions of the will. Often, the executor of a will has retired or died or moved or is otherwise unreachable. This is one reason why the executor is usually a family member, a trusted family friend or a lawyer. Someone must be named as the beneficiary to your elder’s estate or it will be left to the state. Sadly, I’ve seen this happen many times, and family members can do little except deal with their shock.

Don’t draft your elder’s will yourself or allow him/her to do it either. If a will is not prepared in accordance with state laws, it could easily be challenged by other heirs and family members who are unhappy with its contents. This leaves the estate open to hefty legal fees and prolonged maneuvers that could have easily been avoided.

A word about taxes. When a will is executed after someone has passed away, the executor has the responsibility to pay all of the bills and taxes before the heirs can be paid. The law allows only nine months to pay the taxes for the estate that is being probated. After nine months of non-payment, additional fines and penalties are imposed on the estate. So make sure this is handled well ahead of time to lessen any loss to your elder’s estate.

Editor’s note: It is always wise to consult with an elder law attorney for help with all legal matters.

Dr. Marion (Marion Somers, Ph.D.) is a geriatric care manager and elder care expert. She is author of “Elder Care Made Easier”), iPhone apps (www. elder911.net) website, columns, public service announcements, and more. For more information, visit DrMarion.com.

I apply online for Q Can retirement benefits?

Q: If both my spouse and I are

:

A: Yes. It’s quick

and easy. Apply online and save yourself a trip to the office. Once you submit your online application electronically, in most cases, you’re done. There are no forms to sign or documents to send in. If we do need more information to process your application, a representative will contact you. For more information about applying online, visit our website at www.socialsecurity.gov or call us toll-free at 1-800772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778).

entitled to Social Security benefits, is there any reduction in our payments because we are married?

A: No. We independently calculate each spouse’s Social Security benefit amount.

Each spouse receives a monthly benefit amount based on his or her own earnings. Couples are not penalized simply because they are married. If one member of the couple earned low wages or did not earn enough Social Security credits to be eligible for retirement benefits, he or she may be eligible to receive benefits as a spouse.

Mature Lifestyles • November 2011 • page 19

When the Frost Is On the Pumpkin...

A

ssociated mostly with the fall months, it’s time once again to enjoy one of fall’s most familiar sights—pumpkins at your neighborhood fruit stand.

Archeologists throughout North and South America dig up pottery representing the many varieties of pumpkins and squashes grown by Native Americans who were growing these tasty vegetables for hundreds of years before the Europeans arrived.

Recipe Native Americans of the eastern U.S. considered them nearly as important as corn and beans. Even the seeds were ground into meal for gruel or bread. Colonists ate them daily, according to food historians.

Today gardeners revel in growing bigger and better pumpkins for

personal satisfaction. One World Pumpkin WeighOff winner last year was over 1,500 pounds.

It’s time for the pumpkins to arrive. Some say the smaller the pumpkin, the better the flavor. Others say the bigger the pumpkin, the better the jack-o-lantern.

Have it your way.

Pumpkin is rich in phosphorus, calcium, iron and vitamins A and C. So, what can you do with a pumpkin besides make a jack-o-lantern? Roast the salted seeds at 250 degrees for 30 to 60 minutes, cool and enjoy.

For cooks who like to take the easy way, try this easy cake. Just “dump” the ingredients in and bake!

1 tsp. allspice 1 yellow cake mix 1 cup butter, melted 1 cup chopped nuts

Easy Pumpkin “Dump” Cake Ingredients: 1 lg. can pumpkin (29 oz.) or use fresh 1 can evaporated milk 4 eggs 1 cup brown sugar 2 tsp. cinnamon ½ tsp. nutmeg

Preparation Directions: 1. Mix first 7 ingredients well.

2. Pour into 9 x 13 greased pan.

3. Sprinkle dry cake mix on top of mixture.

4. Sprinkle nuts over cake.

5. Pour butter over cake.

6. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour, or until cake tester comes out clean.

Variations: • Mix up a boxed cheese cake mix and swirl it into the pumpkin.

• Substitute spice or butter pecan cake mix for the yellow cake mix.

• Drizzle cream cheese icing over the cake once it is baked and sprinkle with pecans or walnuts.

Stay Connected!

and

H Places

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Local Stories H Great Events

H Be Inspired H Find Great Recipes H Read Your Paper Online

Senior Connection and Mature Lifestyles

Go to: www.seniorconnectionfl.com Mature Lifestyles • November 2011 • page 20

Hero Dog Hallmark Special

E

very dog has his day—and this is it. Exclusively on Hallmark Channel Friday, November 11 at 8 p.m., the inaugural American Humane Association Hero Dog Awards™, presented by Cesar® Canine Cuisine, will celebrate the special relationship between canine and human and recognize extraordinary acts of heroism performed by ordinary dogs. Winners will be presented in categories including Law Enforcement and Arson Dogs, Service Dogs, Therapy Dogs, Military Dogs, Guide Dogs, Search and Rescue Dogs, Hearing Dogs and Emerging Hero Dogs.

The winner of the top prize of American Hero Dog for 2011, a guide dog named Roselle, was

Last Month’s Answers

Oct. Sudoku

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Win Great Prizes!

New winner selected each month

Good Luck!

Nov. Sudoku

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

Send your answers along with your name, address and telephone number to: SENIOR CONNECTION OR MATURE LIFESTYLES 1602 S. PARSONS AVE., SEFFNER, FL 33584

honored for having led her blind master down 78 flights of steps at the World Trade Center following the 9/11 attacks. Hosted by Carson Kressley, the 90-minute Hallmark Special will also feature presenters Betty White, Paula Abdul, Faith Ford, Julianne Hough, Michael Vartan, Peter Fonda and many others.

Word Search

WIN! WIN! WIN! GREAT PRIZES!

SUDOKU MUST BE RECEIVED BY NOV. 21, 2011

Word Search Nov. 2011 In the grid below, twenty answers can be found that fit the category for today. Circle each answer that you find and list it in the space provided at the right of the grid. Answers can be found in all directions – forwards, backwards, horizontally, vertically and diagonally. An example is given to get you started. Can you find the twenty answers in this puzzle?

Answers From

October 2011

Wafa Munzer is last month’s winner!

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&

Florida’s Award Winning Senior Magazine

Send your answers along with your name, address and telephone number to:

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

MYSTERY WIN! WIN! WIN! MYSTERY SENIOR CONNECTION or PRIZE! PRIZE! MATURE LIFESTYLES GREAT PRIZES! 1602 S. PARSONS AVE. SEFFNER, FL 33584 (Puzzles must be received by Nov. 21, 2011.)

Mature Lifestyles • November 2011 • page 21

Into America’s Wild West

BY TRACIE SCHMIDT

S

unscreen. Check. National Parks passport, check. Stetson and riding gloves? Check and check.

Look out, Wild West, here I come.

This year, I left for Wyoming to fulfill a lifelong dream to visit Yellowstone and the Tetons, and to see how people live, work and play at one of the oldest dude ranches in the state.

The 7D Ranch Early in the morning, I headed north from Cody, WY to the Chief Joseph Scenic Highway, a wild ride across mountain passes and canyon lands. Halfway through, a road branches off into a wide valley rimmed with glacier-capped mountains. This is the Sunlight Basin, home to the 7D Ranch. It was purchased in 1958 by Dr. DeWitt “Doc” Dominick, and it’s been in their family ever since. Meade and Andrea Dominick run the show now, and they do their best to make every guest feel like part of the family.

Travel

The ranch is around 275 acres of aspen, pine and fir forest, red and yellow rim rock, meadows of aromatic sage and grazing land for herds of cattle and horses. They can accomodate up to 32 guests in spacious, cozy cabins and meals are home-cooked with ingredients straight from the ranch.

This was my first time at a dude ranch, and I wasn’t sure what to do first. As it turned out, they had quite a

day planned. After a hearty breakfast, I met my companion for the trip—a spunky horse named Red Wyatt—and I was off for a day of riding. With trails named “Skyline,” “Indian Caves” and “Screaming Woman,” you were sure to find adventure no matter which one you picked. My group set out on a trail named “Memorial”—Doc Dominick’s favorite spot—and enjoyed a bird’s eye view of the ranch and the Abrasoka mountains. It was breathtaking.

Days are filled with riding, fly fishing, skeet shooting, cookouts, children’s activities, games in the recreational hall or just lounging in a hammock. Pack trips and day trips into Yellowstone are also popular. At night, s’mores by campfire, hayrides or a Wicki-Up—a traditional Indian sweat lodge—are the order of the evening. I enjoyed a quiet night with new friends and saw a presentation on wolves by a local wildlife biologist.

Then it was off to my cabin for a snooze by a crackling wood stove.

The ranch is open from mid June to mid September, and different activities are available depending on the season. The 7D is a great place to bring your grandkids, but during adult-only weeks, it also offers a peaceful refuge.

Norma Price, 86, was visiting with her daughter Nancy and son-in-law Tom. Tom and Nancy had spent their honeymoon on the ranch, and for the three of them, vacationing at the 7D was a tradition.

I asked what brought them back.

“The scenery, and the riding when I was able,” Norma said fondly.

For Nancy, the variety of activities and accommodation of the staff make the ranch special. “Whatever you want to do—if you want to go fishing or go out on a hike, just ask; they’ll make it happen,” she said.

To book a stay at the 7D Ranch, visit 7dranch.com or call (307) 587-9885.

Learn more and start your own Wyoming adventure: visit wyomingtourism.org.

Mature Lifestyles • November 2011 • page 22

Yellowstone

O

ur national parks are our birthright as Americans, preserved so that every citizen can experience the same thrill of discovery that our country’s first explorers felt. You can spend weeks discovering all there is to see in Yellowstone. But if you are only there for a couple days, here are some must-sees.

Old Faithful Inn and Old Faithful: Visit the century-old rustic log resort, see the worldfamous geyser and other geothermal features, easily accessible by boardwalk.

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: Follow trails along the canyon’s rim for spectacular views, or take a short hike down to Lower Falls.

Mammoth Hot Springs: Explore an alien landscape of calcified waterfalls and multi-colored pools. The Roosevelt Arch is five miles north.

Animals: Herds of bison and elk, as well as the occasional wolf pack or grizzly bear, frequent The Lamar River Basin and Hayden valley. Best times: according to locals, early spring and fall. Bring binoculars.

Best Stays in the Park – Hotels: Old Faithful Inn, Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel, Roosevelt Lodge, Canyon Lodge, Lake Hotel. Reservations recommended at least 4 –6 months in advance. RVs: Fishing Bridge.

Camping: Canyon, Madison, Indian Creek and Norris.

Good Eats: Old Faithful Dining Room (RSVP: 1-866439-7375); lunch at Lake Hotel’s 1920’s-style dining room; or Roosevelt Lodge’s Old West Dinner Cookout.

For more information, visit nps.gov/yell or reserve at yellowstonenationalparklodges.com.

Grand Teton

A

bout an hour south of Yellowstone is Grand Teton national park. Its highest peak reaches 13,775 ft., and this majestic range is a favorite spot for hikers, photographers and nature-lovers alike.

Here are some ways to explore this amazing park: Ferry/Hike: At Jenny Lake, catch a ferry across to the base of the Tetons and enjoy a scenic hike to Hidden Falls, Inspiration Point or Cascade Canyon.

Scenic Drives: Take the 43 mile Scenic Loop Drive, accessed at Jackson Lake Junction, Moran Junction and Moose Junction. Side trip: Snake River Overlook for a panoramic view of the Tetons.

Aerial Tram: At Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, catch a cable tram ride to the top of Rendezvous Peak, 10,450 ft. $20 – $25. Visit tram-formation.com.

Whitewater Raft or Float Trip: The Snake River flows past the base of the Tetons. Spot wildlife, enjoy mountain scenery or ride the rapids. Dave Hansen Whitewater & Scenic River Trips: (800) 732-6295.

Best Stays in the Park: Jackson Lake Lodge; Jenny Lake Campground (tents only); Colter Bay Village campground and marina.

More info: nps.gov/grte or gtlc.com/lodging/.

It’s A Small World, After All W hen Henry Biernacki was 17 years old, he hopped a Greyhound bus from Colorado to Mexico with nothing but a small backpack, the clothes on his back and a few bucks in his pocket.

He hasn’t stopped moving since. Today, Biernacki is an airline captain with Virgin America and he has traveled to more than 120 countries, but his travel habits haven’t evolved much since his teen years. No five-star hotels or limousines for him. Most of the time, he’ll get on a plane the same way he boarded that bus—backpack, clothes on his back, a few bucks in his pocket.

In fact, back in 1997, he toured 40 different countries over 11 months, spending only $3,700 the entire trip.

He slept on the streets, in airports and, at times, in a guest house. And that’s why he thinks he’s been so fortunate.

For him, it wasn’t about seeing the world—it was about meeting the people along the journey.

“I know how to speak four languages, but I found the one universal language is human kindness,” said Biernacki, author of No More Heroes (globalhenry. com), a novel loosely based on the true stories of his travels.

“Once you get past the politics and the religions and the cultures, people all around the world value pretty much the same things we do.

They respect a hard day’s work, learning about someone new and living a healthy pleasant life.”

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Mature Lifestyles • November 2011 • page 23 10/13/11 9:52 AM

GP-0627-11 Sr Connection/Mature Life Mag - ACC Ad [4.9167x9.8125].indd 1

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Screen respondents carefully. Always meet in public places and have your own transportation. Don’t divulge your home address. Be sure to provide a way for your correspondent to respond to you – phone number, e-mail address or Post Office Box address. Contact the authorities if you feel threatened or harassed by an individual. Be patient and careful – a good relationship and your personal safety are worth the wait!

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TO RESPOND TO AN AD

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

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

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Mature Lifestyles • November 2011 • page 24

veryone wants to live at home without worry, regardless of their age or medical condition, but sometimes it’s not as easy as we’d all like. However, there are certain devices that provide peace of mind by giving people the ability to get help at the push of a button. These systems are called Personal Emergency Response Systems and one of the most trusted is AlarmForce’s AlarmCare.

AlarmCare is a two-piece system that consists of a pendant and the Alarm-

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AlarmCare is an essential tool for living at home, regardless of your age or medical condition.

AlarmCare costs $0/down and only $28/month. In addition, there’s no contract required.

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Mature Lifestyles • November 2011 • page 25

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Information & Directions call: 1-888-670-0040 • www.seniorconnectionfl.com Mature Lifestyles • November 2011 • page 26

BRIDGE BITES

From The American Contract Bridge League

It Pays To Count

BY BRIAN GUNNELL

B

efore seeing the auction, imagine that you are South, playing in 2♠. Looking just at the N-S hands, how would you tackle the trump suit?

The percentage play to avoid a second loser is to cash the Ace (a precaution against West having the singleton King), then cross to Dummy and lead towards the Queen.

That gets the job done whenever East has the King and it is doubleton or tripleton.

As you can see, that is not a success on the actual hand. Declarer loses two trump tricks and ends up going down one. Now let’s replay the hand, this time bearing in mind the auction.

West leads the ♣A and East plays the Queen (showing the Jack). Clubs are continued and you ruff the third round. Next, you cash the ♠A, and lead a Heart which East wins. A Heart comes back, won on the board, and it’s time to lead a Spade. Is there any reason for Declarer to be inspired

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now and play a low Spade from hand?

Yes, there is! Declarer needs only to remember West’s Double of 1♠ and do some counting. West has 7 points in Clubs, a maximum of 3 in Diamonds and none in Hearts. That’s not enough for his bidding! He surely has the ♠K and Declarer’s only chance is that West started with King doubleton.

Such an easy hand for those who take the trouble to do a little counting.

Visit www.acbl.org for more about the fascinating game of bridge or email marketing@acbl.org.

To find a bridge club in Florida, go to http://www.district9acbl. org/D9Clubsmap.htm.

Bridge article provided courtesy of St. Petersburg Bridge Club; online at stpetebridge.org.

More Activities 5

and 6 Downtown Clermont Art Fest. Admission is free.

Montrose Street in Downtown Clermont. (352) 460-0904.

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and 6 All Breed Dog Shows by the Lake Eustis Kennel Club. Lady Lake Equestrian Center, 40810 Grays Airport Rd. 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Free ad-

Personal Care ◆ Errands Transportation ◆ Light Housekeeping Medicine Reminders Home, Facility or Hospital CNA’s and Companions

mission; $5 parking. (Regular Kennel Club meetings held 7 p.m. on the 4th Wednesday each month. Lady Lake Library.) Information at lakeeustiskennelclub.com or call (407) 519-0417.

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and 12 Library Book Sale by Friends of Belleview Library, 6007 SE. Earp Rd., Belleview. Thousands of books. Info at (352) 245-2767.

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Leesburg Main Street Christmas Stroll. 6 to 9 p.m. Free admission. Downtown Leesburg.

Please call (352) 365-0053.

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Light Up Eustis. 5 to 9 p.m.

Downtown Eustis and Ferran Park. Please call (352) 357-8555 for more information.

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31st Annual Light Up Mount Dora. 5 p.m. Annual lighting ceremony. Downtown Mount Dora and Donnelly Park. (352) 383-2165.

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Holiday Happening. 6 to 8 p.m.

Free. Downtown Square, Ocala. More info at (352) 368-5517.

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Venetian Gardens Light Up Ceremony. 6 p.m. Venetians Gardens, Leesburg. (352) 365-0053.

Mature Lifestyles • November 2011 • page 27

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