Senior Connection Jan. 2012 Suncoast edition

Take Your Oxygen First VOLUME 23, NUMBER 1

Leeza Gibbons

Finding Peace Along I-95

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SUNCOAST

JANUARY 2012

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• Technology: Of Lovers and Liars • It’s On the Tip of My Tongue • Leaving Your Home • He Walked Above the Clouds

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Note to Self: Things to Think About in 2012 7. Laugh more! Yes, I want to laugh more in 2012.

Dear Readers,

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t’s that time of year again. No, let’s don’t try making actual resolutions, since we’re old enough to have gone through Janice Doyle, many stages with Editor the traditional New Year’s Resolutions thing.

There were years we were confident we could really change our weight or our income or a behavior. Other years we were so cynical (or so busy) that we didn’t even bother setting a simple goal. All of us have made resolutions which we didn’t keep.

So I’ve made a list of, not really resolutions, but ideas I want to keep reconsidering this year. I want to come back to them every so often as reminders of the person I want to be. That way I won’t get down on myself if I don’t live up to all of them by March 1 or some other self-serving date. Maybe something here will stir you to join me in looking at others and myself in a new and more humane light in 2012.

1. This year I want to take time to remember that, regardless of what I might think when I ponder on the world situation, God is still in control and we are but a “blip on the screen” of His time. My part in that? Psalm 100: 4, 5 says, “Enter His gates with thanksgiving, and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise His name. For the Lord is good and His love endures forever; His faithfulness continues to all generations.” So I will be more thankful and praise Him. 2. I will try to think about caregivers in my community more and do something for them when I can.

After talking with TV personality Leeza Gibbons (see the story about her in this issue), I want to help.

For me, at this time, it will be something simple that says, “I care.”

Senior Connection • January 2012 • page 2

8. Years ago Ann Landers advised to “Walk tall and smile more.

You’ll look 10 years younger.”

(10 years younger? Wow!) 9. I will say, “I love you” again and again. They are the sweetest words in the world.

Some years ago I had a friend who loved to read, as I do. She became caregiver for her husband who had Alzheimer’s. I would take bags of books to her periodically. It was always a warm feeling to know my book choices were keeping her company during the long days and nights she sat with her husband. I’m sure there’s another reader out there!

3. This year I will think “local” whenever possible in order to boost my hometown economy. I will give gift certificates to locally owned beauty shops, use an independently owned car repair shop and buy my veggies at local produce stands.

My home repairs and home improvement work will be done by people who are raising their families within my community.

4. I plan to do a little more exercise every week than I have been doing. Doctors tell us that just about anything we do to exercise makes a difference in our physical and emotional well-being. I walk several miles a week now—I’m just going to add a few more times around the block each week.

5. This is a hard one, but I will be better off if I cut a few hundred calories a week.

6. Most of all, I will remain flexible! Life is short, circumstances that are beyond my control will come up and my priorities will have to change. I can do this.

Humor Matters And now, just for fun, from the website Humor Matters™, take a look as Steven M. Sultanoff, Ph.D., a Mirthologist and Clinical Psychologist, gives us some just-forfun “affirmations” for the new year.

Read them and laugh with me. And remember, they’re all in good fun— not recommended lifestyle changes!

• I assume full responsibility for my actions, except the ones that are someone else’s fault.

• My intuition nearly makes up for my lack of wisdom and judgment.

• I need not suffer in silence while I can still moan, whimper and complain.

• I will strive to live each day as if it were my 50th birthday.

• Today I will gladly share my experience and advice, for there are no sweeter words than “I told you so!”

• I will no longer waste my time reliving the past; I will spend it worrying about the future.

• Before I criticize a man, I will walk a mile in his shoes. That way, if he gets angry, he’s a mile away and barefoot.

Now, didn’t it feel good to laugh at how we sometimes think!

Our staff wishes you a blessed and happy new year.

Pinellas/Pasco Edition

Published monthly by News Connection U.S.A., Inc.

General Manager: Dave Tarantul Publisher/Director of Events & Marketing: Kathy J. Beck kathy@srmagazine.com Editor: Janice Doyle janice@srmagazine.com

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Senior Connection • January 2012 • page 3

“Take Another Look”—The 27th Annual Florida RV Supershow

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There’s NOTHING like the Florida RV Supershow!

Wed. – Sat.: 9 am – 6 pm • Sunday: 9 am – 5 pm Admission; $10 for adults 2 Day Admission for the Price of One! Kids Under 16 FREE! Presented by the Florida RV Trade Association • www.frvta.org

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he Florida RV Trade Association (FRVTA) will host the 27th Annual 2012 Florida RV SuperShow, Wednesday, January 11 through Sunday, January 15. The Florida RV SuperShow will again be held at the Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa, Florida.

The theme of the 2012 Florida RV SuperShow is “Take Another Look,” and the event will have representation from every major RV manufacturer as well as hundreds of accessory exhibitors.

A favorite of all visitors to the SuperShow is the FREE entertainment.

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hat’s love got to do with it? A soldier and a clown cope with jealousy, ego and adultery in two of opera’s most popular one-act verismo masterpieces!

• Upright seating position for less back pain & clear view of the road

Sung in Italian with English translations above the stage.

• Relaxed arm position for more control

Visit operatampa.org to learn about the Cavalleria Rusticana & I Pagliacci special events before the opera too!

Jan. 27 • 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 29 • 2 p.m.

Carol Morsani Hall OPERA TAMPA SERIES MEDIA SPONSOR

TICKETS: 813.229.STAR (7827) • OPERATAMPA.ORG OUTSIDE TAMPA BAY: 800.955.1045 • GROUP SERVICES 813.222.1018 Senior Connection • January 2012 • page 4

From clowns and unicycle riders to barbershop quartets and bagpipe bands, the SuperShow has enough entertainment to keep everyone busy the entire day. And take advantage of the FREE shuttle service inside the SuperShow that will carry visitors from exhibit to exhibit.

Admission to the SuperShow is only $10 for adults, which includes a second day admission for the cost of one day, and children under 16 are free.

The SuperShow hours are Wednesday – Saturday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sunday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Wednesday is Senior Citizens Day with seniors receiving $1 off the cost of admission (not valid with other discounts).

Call (813) 741-0488 or visit online at www.frvta.org for more information.

Trail Sport 6201 Seminole Blvd.

Seminole, FL 33772

727-395-0509

Beach Cyclist Sports Ctr. 7517 Blind Pass Rd. St. Pete Beach, FL 33706

727-367-5001

For more dealers contact Biria USA: Tel: 201-461-1980 www.biria.com

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

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ednesdays Tai Chi for Movement and Balance. Palm Harbor Library. 1 p.m. For information, call (727) 784-3332.

donation. Everyone welcome for fun time. Info at (727) 595-8648.

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to Feb. 26 Seven Guitars, a play by American Stage Theater, 163 3rd St. N., St. Pete.

Information at americanstage.org or by calling (727) 823-PLAY.

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Hal Linden: “I’m Old Fashioned,” entertaining song and musings show at The Mahaffey, 400 First St. South, St. Petersburg. Info: (727) 892-5798.

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Cherish the Ladies, Irish band at Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center, 324 Pine Street, Tarpon Springs. 8 p.m. Tickets, $28. Unique blend of instrumental, vocal and step dancing. Tickets: (727) 942-5605 or tarponarts.org.

aturdays Morning Market at Al Lang Stadium parking lot (1st Ave. and 1st St. S.) 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Fresh and organic produce, gourmet baked goods, prepared foods, plants and flowers, arts and crafts. Info at saturdaymorningmarket.com or (727) 455-4921.

hrough 21 Beyond Swastika and Jim Crow: Jewish Refugee Scholars at Black Colleges exhibition at the Florida Holocaust Museum, 55 Fifth St. S., St. Pete. Admission: $14. Call (727) 820-0100 or visit tflholocaustmuseum.org.

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hrough Feb. William Emrich Photography & Florida Highwaymen Paintings on Exhibit at City Hall Art Gallery, 100 State St. W., Oldsmar. Info at (813) 749-1260.

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– 15 Gem, Jewelry and Mineral Show and Sale sponsored by the Pinellas Geological Society. Largo Cultural Center, 105 Central Park Dr., Largo. Info at (727) 894-2440.

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– 16 Arts & Crafts Festival at Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks.

Information at (352) 344-0657.

“A Night on the Town with the Rat Pack,” a tribute to the originals of the ‘60s: Frank, Dean and Sammy. Largo Cultural Center. Tickets: (727) 587-6793.

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Senior Citizen’s Club meets at Christ Lutheran Church, 3451 30th Ave. N., St. Pete.

Noon. Bring covered dish and $1

at one of our two matinee series!

Film about Admiral “Bull” Halsey showing at 2 p.m. Countryside Library.

Information at (727) 562-4970.

27 28

Pinellas Folk Festival—folk, gospel, country and bluegrass musicians on stages throughout Heritage Village! 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Suggested $5 donation. 11909 125th Street N., Largo. Please call (727) 582-2123 for more information.

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– 29 St. Pete Beach Art & Craft Festival, 595 Corey Avenue, St. Pete Beach. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Email info@artfestival.com or call (561) 746-6615 for details.

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The Matinee Opera Players perform scenes from operas, including La Bohème, La Traviata and Aida at Pinellas Park Performing Arts Center, 4951 78th Ave. N. Free. 2 p.m. For more information, please call (813) 447-9152 or email TampaOperaNews@hotmail.com.

Send Around Town news to Senior Connection Magazine, 1602 S. Parsons Ave., Seffner, FL 33584; please fax (813) 651-1989. News must be received by the 10th of the month prior to event (i.e.

January 10 for February event.)

Coffee Concert

The Sounds of Nature Featuring Debussy’s Clair de lune, Vivaldi’s Spring from The Four Seasons, and excerpts from Beethoven’s Symphony No. 6, Pastorale, Stuart Malina conducts the morning Coffee Concert featuring Concertmaster Jeffrey Multer, with complimentary coffee and doughnuts served before the performance.

Wed, Jan 18, 10am

© Thomas Bruce Studio

hursdays and Fridays Historical Herrmann’s Lipizzaner Stallions training sessions open to the public! 3 p.m. Saturdays 10 a.m. Donations welcome. No tickets needed. Stallions available for viewing any day of the week!

32755 Singletary, Myakka City. Info: hlipizzans.com or (941) 322-1501.

Sponsored by:

Ruth Eckerd Hall

Thu, Jan 19, 11am

Progress Energy Center for the Arts Mahaffey Theater

New Progress Energy Morning Masterworks

Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake Suite

Markus Groh returns to perform Bartok’s highly rhythmic musical roller coaster ride…Piano Concerto No. 2 with Bartok’s Divertimento and the sweeping balletic themes of Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake Suite. Stefan Sanderling conducts. Join us after the concert for “Lunch with the Musicians” for $25.

Concert tickets start at $15.

Sponsored by:

Fri, Jan 27, 10 am

© JM Lennon

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Music in the Mornings Dwight Decker, Principal Trombone © Thomas Bruce Studio

Around Town

Join The Florida Orchestra for

Progress Energy Center for the Arts Mahaffey Theater

727.892.3337 or www.FloridaOrchestra.org For group benefits (10 or more) : 727.362.5443

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Senior Connection • January 20124:49:58 • page 12/1/2011 PM 5

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he Pat Griebel dancers perform for nursing homes, assisted living facilities and private functions as well as “The Silver Follies Revue” in February, featuring lively Broadway and popular dance numbers in beautiful costumes. All dancers are over 55.

The photo above shows the dance troupe as they performed for the

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Claude Pepper Senior Center Christmas Party in December. Pictured from left to right: Louise Garone, Donna Harris, Linda Kobus, Joan Benson, B.J. Haupt, Rosemary Pelloni, Lynn Werner and Carole Turner.

For more information about this group, please contact Pat Griebel at (727) 375-7698 or (727) 505-7152.

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Senior Connection • January 2012 • page 6

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Offer Expires 02/12/12. Not valid with any other offer or coupon or if copied, transferred or where prohibited.

Dine-in only (no sharing). Valid at participating location only.Present coupon when ordering. Valid up to 2 people. Not valid on holidays.

Celebrate at the 7th Annual Senior Fun Fest!

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e can hardly wait for the 7th annual Senior Fun Fest! to be held at the Florida State Fairgrounds, in the Special Events building, Thursday, January 19 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

This FREE event features “Senior Friendly” exhibitors, information on health and wellness, senior lifestyles, travel and attractions, senior services and live entertainment throughout the day!

Entertainment: Enjoy all your favorite music from the 50s, 60s and 70s featuring Richie Merritt of the Marcels, Ken Brady of the Casinos, William “Duece” Hulett, Best in Country Entertainment, and Russell “Elvis,” Cortese. Bring your dancing shoes for some fun.

And of course, Fritzy the “One Man

Circus” and Luis, The Amazing Balloon Man will be doing their best to make you laugh.

Win prizes in free bingo games throughout the day.

Get your own free caricature drawn by artist Art Pressman. Check out the all new Senior Sports Center. Take your chance on a hole-in-one and win a prize! Stop by the James Rivard Buick GMC area and check out the new 2012 cars.

Grandkids Photo Contest There is still time to send in your photos for the “Grandkids are the Greatest” photo contest. Photos will be on display during the event and winners and prizes will be announced at 2 p.m. that day. Call (813) 653-1988 or go online for entry forms at www.seniorconnectionfl.com.

Free Health Screenings The Senior Fun Fest is a great place

to check on your health. The Healthy Vision Institute will provide a free DNA test to determine inherited risks for macular degeneration. Other free health screenings will include bone density, ear checks, blood pressure and glucose checks. These and other important screenings will be available throughout the day. The Alzheimer’s Association will also have their Memory Mobile on site for screenings and information during the day. Other screenings will be provided by St Joseph’s, Bay Care.

The Parkinson Research Foundation will provide information and seminars at scheduled times during the day.

Great Prizes and Giveaways There are lots of chances to win $1,000s in prizes and plenty of giveaways. Grand Prize: A two-night stay at the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino in Biloxi.

We have lots of good eats: free coffee and goodies from our friends at

Costco, a “Senior Friendly” lunch for $5, and a variety of lunch specials.

Join The Senior Fun Walk The Fun Walk is Thursday morning, Jan 19. Registration is at 8:30 a.m.; warm-up and walk begin at 9:15 a.m., in front of the Special Events Building.

Call (813) 653-1988 or 1-888-6700040 for registration forms, or sign up on the day of the walk. There is a minimum donation of $3 for local charites. Walkers will enjoy free continental breakfast, a walk certificate, a sponsor “Goodie” bag and a T-shirt to the first 120 to register.

Again, this year we are asking guests to bring in a donation of a non-perishable food item for the local food pantry at ECHO. Admission is FREE. Parking is $3. for directions, call (813) 621-7821.

For more information, please call (813) 653-1988 or visit online at www.seniorconnectionfl.com.

Senior Connection • January 2012 • page 7

From Leeza Gibbons to Caregivers:

Take Your Own Oxygen First the caregiver because we know that if we take better care of the caregiver, we will get better outcomes for the receiver. Taking your oxygen first is the really most selfless thing to do.

BY JANICE DOYLE

Leeza Gibbons

A

lzheimer’s disease doesn’t discriminate. It strikes men and women, rich and poor, famous and ordinary. I talked by phone with TV personality Leeza Gibbons, whose firsthand knowledge of Alzheimer’s Disease motivated her to become an activist for family caregivers.

Her grandmother died of the disease at the same time Gibbons’ mother received her own diagnosis. Now, when she is not gracing the airwaves, Gibbons (54) spends her time heading up Leeza’s Place, a place both online and in real life working on behalf of caregivers. “It’s a place for caregivers to get educated, empowered and energized as they care for someone they love.” Gibbons said they teach caregivers to “take your oxygen first, meaning nourish yourself, keep your body strong, take a break and forgive, forgive, forgive…the first steps to caring for your loved one.”

I asked her to tell us what she had learned.

Q: What are some practical ways to do that?

LG: We advocate that

caregivers take the first five minutes and the last five minutes of every day for personal reflection, to do some deep breathing and ask “where are my reserves? How am I doing emotionally? Am I feeling angry or resentful? Am I sad? Do I feel guilty?”

Acknowledge those feelings. Realize that you need support, that you can’t do this alone. We’re not infinite resources.

People roll their eyes when we say to take even a five-minute walk every day. But it allows you to get out of your environment so you can cope with greater skill. It gives you oxygen to your brain and your heart so that you will have more physical and emotional reserves to draw from.

Q: What is a practical way to help a caregiver?

LG: If someone asks to help, a great

first response by the caregiver is to ask them to prepare some veggies or healthy snacks and put them in zip lock bags so when you want to eat, the snacks you grab are healthy ones.

Q: At Leeza’s Place, Q: What can caregivers do to you recommend “take your own oxygen first”? scrapbooking. Why? LG: Scrapbooking and memorykeepLG: Walking the path of a caregiver is extraordinarily challenging and depleting at every level—spiritually, emotionally, financially, physically.

When we advocate “take your own oxygen first,” the idea is to shift focus from the diagnosed individual to

Senior Connection • January 2012 • page 8

ing give us validation. When we take the time to elevate an experience—a trip, a shared hug, a moment in time that was special—it lets us know that our life matters and that’s all any of us wants to know.

When we scrapbook, we suggest that you pull out photos that will make a loved one feel competent and in control of their lives. It can be multigenerational. An 8-year-old and 80-year-old can both cut, add to a page, tell about a moment in time.

Working together demystifies the experience for the child. Kids feel more secure if they have information, and if we make them a part of the process, their fear lessens. And journaling forces you to think about feelings.

Sometimes in caregiving, we hurt so much we run from our feelings.

Gibbons and her mother.

Q: Did you make a scrapbook with your mother?

LG: I did. I had a sense

of urgency to record her incredible life, to make sure my children knew how funny she was and how fancy she was and the way she loved to celebrate. It also allowed me to rewind to a time before me, to see her as a girl. Doing it was very healing for me.

Q: What was she like as a grandmother?

LG: My mom had been vocal and excited about having grandchildren. One time when she was visiting and my kids were very young, I remember feeling a cross between anger and resentment that my mother wasn’t really “present”

with the kids. I realize now it was the beginning stages of the disease and that she wasn’t comfortable in her own skin.

One of her big dreams was to take her grandchildren on a cross-country train trip. She never got to do that, so part of what I scrapbooked was what my mom’s hopes and dreams were about the grandchildren.

Q: Any bittersweet stories you want to share?

LG: When I was a little girl, Mom

would say, “When I die, don’t let your dad put me in high heels and pearls. I want to be buried in my pajamas.” I didn’t understand, but I carried that with me into adulthood.

We buried her in this comfortable gown and buying it was the last dutiful daughter experience that I did for her what she wanted.

Q: What about your father through all of this?

LG: My dad cared so lovingly for my mom. He’s an example of taking his oxygen. He found buddies that supported him, and I’m so proud of him.

Resources:

Leezasplace.com Alzheimersdisease.com

What caregivers can do: Offer up Words of Wisdom for others who are struggling.

Go to Alzheimersdisease.com through Feb. 29 to enter your caregiving tips. The top ten will receive gift certificates and be published on the site.

FREE ADMISSION PARKING $3 (Martin Luther King entrance)

Presents the 7th Annual...

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Jan. 19, 2012 • 10am to 3pm

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Bill Castner - “The King of Dance, Sing & Swing” William “Duece” Hulett, Best in Country Entertainment Russell “Elvis” Cortese

FREE HEALTH SCREENINGS FREE COFFEE & GOODIES

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Senior Friendly Lunch Available

Join the Fun! One mile “walk,” Jan. 19, 9:15 am, $3 minimum donation. Enjoy Continental Breakfast, T-Shirt, Sponsor “Goodie Bag” & Prizes to the Winners! Call 1-888-670-0040, go to www.seniorconnectionfl.com (MAIL DEADLINE 1/8/12) or sign up, Jan. 19 at 8:30 am.

EDUCATION • INFORMATION • ENTERTAINMENT Sponsored by...

Information 813-653-1988 or 1-888-670-0040 • www.seniorconnectionfl.com • Directions: 813-621-7821 or 800-345 FAIR Senior Connection • January 2012 • page 9

Is It Time to Pursue Your Dreams?

• Choose the back-to-school path and kick-start a dream or finish one you put on hold years ago.

• Take a sabbatical to work at your dream. Getting away from the work routine can help you prioritize your goals.

BY EVELYN MACKEY

A

re you a Baby Boomer contemplating the question, “What do I want to be when I grow up?” You may want to remain active and engaged, make a contribution to your community or recapture dreams that you let go earlier in your life. If you’re still working, those may just be dreams—how will you turn them into reality?

Many paths can lead you to what’s next in pursuing your dreams. Here are a few ideas:

• The volunteering path lets you use your skills and can take you next door or around the world.

• Take a radical path—become an activist for a cause. Or maybe becoming an entrepreneur or innovator fits your life better.

One man’s dream “Ever since I was a child, I wanted

to be a pro golfer,” said Keith Gockenbach, who retired from a career as an engineer to take his shot at joining the senior tour. “When I finally got to a point in my life when I could take my shot, I did. I learned a lot more about living life than I did about golf.”

Gockenbach’s book Inside, Outside and On The Ropes includes some life tips he found on the way to the dream:

spending two years on lessons and never becoming very good. And, I’ve certainly had more people say to me, “I admire you for chasing your dream,” than I’ve had say or even imply, “You’re crazy to try.”

• If you don’t enter, you can’t win.

It’s easy to be stopped by the daunting odds that face a pro every week, trying to get on the Champions Tour.

After shoulder surgery, I passed on entering three qualifiers where I could have qualified with a low round, as I later did at Sarasota. But when I didn’t enter, I eliminated that opportunity.

• Every stroke counts. I know from playing in the qualifiers that one shot here or there can make the difference between qualifying and going home empty-handed. Life works the same way. When you’re driving a car, focus on safe driving. When you meet someone, take the extra two seconds to learn their name. Give your full attention, even if it’s less than a minute.

Every interaction in life deserves a positive approach and relaxed focus. It’s a good habit to develop.

• The greatest regrets in life are for things you didn’t do, not the things you did and did poorly. People usually regret stopping after only a few piano lessons a lot more than

So, if there’s a dream in your head, what can you do to start making it come true? As retirement years stretch before the boomers, there are dreams waiting in the wings.

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New Books I

nto the Wilderness

by Deborah Lee Luskin is a love story set in Vermont in 1964. It tells the story of Rose Mayer, a sixty-four-year-old Jewish widow from New York, who buries her second husband and wonders what she’s going to do with the rest of her life. Reluctantly, she visits a son in Vermont, in a town where there are neither sidewalks, Democrats nor other Jews. There, she meets Percy Mendell, a born and bred Vermonter who has never married, never voted for a Democrat and never left the state. When they meet, sparks fly.

Pursuing Happiness…

One More Time is a witty novel about life and love in an adult community

by Mary Lou Peters Schram.

This fun book doesn’t guarantee a fulfillment of all the women’s dreams, but it’s a fun read.

Let the Rain Fall by Rachel Norby takes on the question of “Does true love exist?” Is it possible to convince someone spited by love to give it a second chance? These are some of the questions that Katherine, now age 75, addresses as she tells her story to the three eccentric sisters at New Horizons Assisted Living.

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An Active 55+ Adult Community Spacious 1 and 2 bedroom homes with large screened lanais Variable lease terms available to meet your individual needs FREE cable television, water, pest control and rubbish collection included in your rent FREE daily transportation to local grocery stores, pharmacies, library, area shopping malls and the new Largo Community Center FREE membership to the Bonsai Holistic Spa & Fitness Center Two recreational clubhouses that include computers with Internet access, billiards and heated outdoor swimming pools An active social calendar including resident parties, travel excursions, health expos, group classes and activities galore Optional concierge services available: dinner meal delivery, housekeeping and laundry Pet friendly up to 25 lbs.

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Call Today for More Information (727) 585-3723 101 Imperial Palm Drive • Largo, Florida 33771 • www.imperialpalms.com Senior Connection • January 2012 • page 11

Seniors Can Partner with County Education System

BY JANICE DOYLE

I

f you’ve ever wished you could go back to school, the Gus A. Stavros Institute may be just the place for you.

It’s where all Pinellas County fifth graders and eighth graders go for “real life” hands-on free enterprise experiences. Fortunately, the Institute also hosts opportunities for seniors in their special “real life” experiences as a part of the Pinellas Education Foundation.

On February 24 the Pinellas Education Foundation will host its annual Senior Expo just for those, oh, ages 60 to 90ish.

This year’s Senior Treasure Exploration will help seniors, says Jacqulyn Schuett, Associate Director of Planned Giving & Marketing. “We’ll help people look at all of the things you consider treasures and help answer questions.

How do you determine what to save?

How do you determine what to pass on? Is there something of my history to preserve in scrapbooking, archiving or other means?” Experts will help seniors determine if there’s someone to help

in the downsizing process and what documenting might need to be done.

The Seniors and Scholars Breakfast Series (next one is Jan. 18) attracts retired educators and their friends to the Institute. Schuett says, “We’ve tried to keep people active and interested in what’s happening in education and informed them about activities we’re providing them to stay involved. The breakfasts offer a series of speakers relevant for seniors taking care of their health, wealth other concerns about staying useful and active and part of the community.”

The breakfasts also include tours of the Institute and the Foundation, where some decide to become volunteers. Schuett says that all participants leave the breakfasts “captivated by

seeing that what we provide is a powerful way for students to learn real-life skills.”

The Stavros Institute is integral to the Pinellas County Schools curriculums.

Over 18,000 students a year spend a day there. Enterprise Village –attended one day a year by every fifth grade student in the county – teaches students about America’s economic system. They arrive after six weeks of study in their classrooms with an assigned job which they perform for the day in simulated areas of the Village (bank, radio station, Sweetbay, etc).

There’s Finance Park which teaches eighth-grade students personal financial management in a realistic setting.

Students arrive at the Park and are presented with a real-life situation (married

Barrington Terrace Jan. Events

C 18 26 29

heck out this calendar of events at Barrington Terrace Assisted Living & Memory Care Community: – Referral Networking Breakfast at 9 a.m.

– Caregiver Support Group at 10 a.m.

– Mother and Daughter Brunch – Time For Assisted Living? 10 a.m.

All events are open to the public at no cost! Please RSVP to all events Location: Barrington Terrace 333 16th Ave. SE., Largo, FL 33771 RSVP – (727) 588-0020.

Senior Connection • January 2012 • page 12

or single, income amount, etc.) and “spend the day determining how to spend their money and whether they will end up in red or black.”

The Career Cove provides high school students with resources, including college scholarships.

Volunteers may serve as mentors and tutors for the Foundation’s Doorways Scholars Program (in cooperation with Take Stock in Children). These scholars come from disadvantaged backgrounds and need extra help to become successful in further education or training.

Schuett says other volunteers do mailings and office work assisting the busy staff at the Foundation.

The Pinellas Education Foundation is rated #1 in the U.S. because of the outstanding partnership between education and the business community. It’s a partnership that pays off every day.

To participate in any of the programs at the Foundation, call (727) 588-4816 or email by logging on to pinellaseducation.org.

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Move Over Vegetarians, Make Way for Flexitarians I f you’ve cut your meat consumption, you are among a growing number of consumers. The number of those who follow strict vegetarian or vegan diets in the U.S. is relatively small.

Others are termed “occasional” vegetarians (also called flexitarians) and can be categorized into two groups, semi-vegetarians and meat reducers. Semi-vegetarians follow a vegetarian diet part of the time but still eat some meat and dairy products.

Meat reducers are not trying to follow a vegetarian diet but are just trying to reduce the amount of meat they eat.

An article in Food Technology magazine tells how manufacturers are increasingly targeting these groups with better-tasting products, attractive packaging and product variety.

Large food manufacturers like Kraft Foods, ConAgra Foods, General Mills and others have acquired smaller vegetarian food producers or launched their own lines of vegetarian food products.

Three-quarters of MorningStar Farms’ consumers are flexitarians, meaning the company is developing new flavors and products that appeal to these consumers.

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Senior Connection • January 2012 • page 14

Veterans Corner

A Green Beret in Vietnam: When We Walked Above the Clouds

W

riter H. Lee Barnes lives in Las Vegas and teaches English and Creative Writing at the College of S. Nevada—a far cry from his days on the battlefield as a member of a Special Forces Author A-team in Vietnam.

H. Lee Barnes Typical of many young men in the early ‘60s, Barnes was in college and drifting along as an average student when a letter from his Draft Board made the decision of what he would be doing for the next couple of years of his life. He enlisted in the Army and became, much to his own surprise, a member of the elite Green Beret.

There are the legends of the Green Berets and their clandestine, special operations that are celebrated in story and song, and then there’s the reality of one soldier’s experiences. In When We Walked Above The Clouds: A Memoir of Vietnam by H. Lee Barnes, readers share first-hand the day-to-day loss and drudgery that more accurately conveys the daily grind and quiet desperation behind the polished-for-public-consumption accounts of military heroics.

Barnes tells what it was like to be a Green Beret; first in the Dominican Republic during the civil war of 1965, and then at A-107, Tra Bong, Vietnam, where he eventually came to serve as the advisor to a Combat Recon Platoon which consisted chiefly of Montagnard irregulars.

While Barnes sees his months of simply doing what the mission demanded as nothing to get excited over (after all, bad coffee, heat, insects, sickness, killing rats, cleaning guns and building bunkers make up the routine nature of war), he communicates how this predictability makes the

intensity of patrols and attacks all the more menacing, and his book makes for a very sobering read.

He recalls a particular routine patrol that had gone wrong and four of his own and a large number of Vietnamese and Montagnard tribesmen were killed. As he lifted a buddy’s decomposed body off the ground, both a hatred for the enemy and the stupidity of the war emerged and he began his own patrols.

He learned to do what few other Americans in his outfit could— climb the treacherous mountains and survive the unforgiving conditions as well as a native. Learning to trust the jungle and all its dangers, he felt more alive than he had before or ever has since.

Barnes’s story is one of loss—of morale lost to alcoholism, teammates lost to friendly fire, of missions that were aborted and those that were endlessly and futilely repeated. As the story advances, so does the attrition— teammates get transferred, innocence is cast off and confidence in leadership dwindles. But against this dark background, Barnes manages to honor these men who nonetheless carried the day.

Nearly fifty years later, Barnes writes that “Vietnam is the only thing in my life that isn’t fiction,” and his book stands as a tribute to the contribution the men of this elite group made, both the routine and the brave.

Vet H. Lee Barnes today is a hiker and biker who loves to tour the highways of the southwest and occasionally rambles down its inviting back roads...just curious to see what’s around the next corner.

For more information on this award-winning author, please visit: hleebarnes.net.

M

Services to Help You Stay at Home

any older adults prefer to stay at home as they age. It’s natural to want to stay at home as you grow older. But is this the right choice for you or your loved on? Sometimes small changes are needed to make it possible to age in place—the term for being able to stay in your own home safely and comfortably.

What can help me stay at home?

You may be used to handling everything for yourself, dividing up duties with your spouse or relying on family members for help. But as circumstances change, it’s good to be aware of all the home care services available that might be of help. What you may need depends on how much support you have, your general health and your financial situation. Think about these factors: Household maintenance Keeping a household running

smoothly takes a lot of work, including laundry, shopping, gardening, housekeeping and handyman services.

Then there are bills as well as financial and healthcare management.

Transportation Transportation is a key issue for older adults. Investigating transportation options can help you keep your independence and maintain your social network.

Home modifications If your mobility is becoming limited, home modifications may include grab bars in the shower, ramps to avoid or minimize the use of stairs or even installing new, more convenient bathrooms.

Personal and health care This can sometimes be done by trained professionals who come to your home for a fee.

From helpguide.org.

Affordable Housing For Senior Citizens

Creekside Manor I & II

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Yes! You can move into Grand Villa Senior Living from your current assisted living community without interrupting your Veteran, Diversion, or Private Pay Benefits.

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750 Starkey Rd., Largo, FL 33771 www.LargoSeniorLiving.com Senior Connection • January 2012 • page 15

“Tip of the Tongue” Forgetting

R

emember in November when Rick Perry failed to retrieve the name of one of the federal agencies he would abolish if elected president— namely the Department of Energy? That was most likely an example of a very common phenomenon called “Tip of the Tongue” or TOT, says a University at Buffalo psycholinguist.

“TOT occurs when we know the meaning of the word or words we want to retrieve but are unable to access their sounds,” says Gail Mauner, Ph.D., Departments of Psychology and Linguistics.

She says that often, when we are in a TOT state, we have partial access to the form aspects of a word or phrase—that is, we might be able to say what the first letter is

Senior Connection • January 2012 • page 16

or how many syllables it has but are not able to retrieve the entire word.

These events are typically not a measure of intelligence, nor are they evidence of a lack of knowledge, she says. She noted that Rick Perry, as a governor of Texas, is likely to be quite knowledgeable about the Department of Energy.

TOT states are more common for words that are infrequent (like “protractor”) and for proper names.

She says such incidents increase as we get older.

When a word is not produced very frequently, Mauner says the connections between its meaning and its sounds may be weak. (Newswise)

How come some folks in nursing homes pay almost nothing?

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Dear Dorian,

Yes, you can switch from your Medicare Advantage (MA) plan to Original Medicare during the Medicare Advantage Disenrollment Period (MADP). You can only make this coverage change if you have a Medicare Advantage (MA) plan, and you can only switch into Original Medicare.

You cannot switch from one MA plan to another. The MADP occurs every year from January 1 to February 14.

If you have a Medicare Advantage plan you will be able to switch to Original Medicare with or without a stand-alone prescription drug plan.

Changes made during this period will become effective the first of the following month. For example, if you switched from a Medicare Advantage plan to Original Medicare and a

Resolve to ask for help when needed

h

Resolve to accept help when offered

h

Resolve not to be afraid to ask questions

h

Resolve to seek out and attend support groups

h

Resolve to learn everything I can about my Resolve to seek out and use respite care services

This year, turn to Arden Courts to help make your New Year bright!

There are many resources available for those who care for loved ones living with dementia. Protect yourself this New Year from experiencing emotional and health concerns by taking advantage of the many helpful resources in our community.

Arden Courts has many resources to help you keep those New Year’s Resolutions: Assisted Living Facility License #9403, 9193, 9248, 9709

D

h

h

Medicare Answers

stand-alone prescription drug plan in February, your new coverage would begin March 1.

Remember, if you are enrolled in a Private-Fee-For-Service (PFFS) plan with a stand-alone drug plan, you must keep your stand-alone prescription drug plan if you switch to Original Medicare during the MADP. Marci’s Medicare Answers is a service of the Medicare Rights Center (www.medicarerights.org), the nation’s largest independent source of information and assistance for people with Medicare. To speak with a counselor, call (800) 333-4114.

To subscribe to “Dear Marci,” the Medicare Rights Center’s free educational e-newsletter, simply e-mail dearmarci@medicarerights.org.

To learn more about the services that Medicare will cover and how to change plans, log on to Medicare Interactive Counselor at the Medicare Rights Center’s website at www.medicareinteractive.org.

Resolve to take better care of myself

loved one’s illness

Email: info@BDeckerAssociates.com Our site: www.BDeckerAssociates.com

ear Marci, I enrolled into a new Medicare Advantage plan during Fall Open Enrollment, but I don’t like it.

Can I switch out of this plan? —Dorian

h

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6525_FL Clust_4.916x9.812_1.indd 1

Senior Connection • January12/16/11 2012 •11:39:15 pageAM 17

Seven Ways Grieving Affects Your Health Eating disturbances.

BY D. KEITH COBB, M.D.

T

The nervous system chemicals that contribute to our emotional state also affect healthy hunger signals. Eating too much (trying to self-comfort using food) and eating too little (loss of appetite) are commonplace among those who’ve suffered a loss.

he toll of grief goes beyond an emotional cost. Our mental struggles also affect our physical health. Don’t hesitate to see your physician for advice and help as you go through this difficult time. Here are seven common symptoms that mourners experience.

Health

Fatigue and insomnia.

The inability to sleep easily, deeply and through the night is common under these circumstances and may take months or years to improve. Chronic insomnia can lead to chronic fatigue.

Abdominal pain and “heartache.”

The emotional pain recognition site in the brain is located near the region that senses and interprets sensations, including pain, from the stomach and other abdominal organs. When we suffer emotionally, the brain responds by releasing neurochemicals we experience in our body as an intense aching in our upper abdomen and lower chest.

Mood swings and irritability.

Grieving people often feel as if they are going insane. That’s because anxiety is a frequent component of

Functional impairment. Anxiety and

stress resulting from extreme grief can cause the mourner to experience noticeable impairment in concentration, decision making and even physical reaction time, known as psychomotor retardation.

It can be hazardous to your health to do any activity—such as driving, skiing, roof work, etc.—when you’re under severe duress from mourning.

Sensitivity to aches and pains.

Intense grief leads to feelings of depression, rejection, despondency and

loneliness. All of these understandable emotions are brought on by a decrease in serotonin and norepinephrine, the compounds that help to relieve pain and boost mood. These “feel-better” chemicals are abnormally low in the brains of grieving and depressed people, so it’s normal for grievers to be more sensitive to aches and pains.

Exacerbated medical problems.

It is a well-described phenomenon that existing medical problems often worsen and healing slows down when a person is under extreme stress, such as that caused by the profound burden of mourning. This is why people who are in mourning often have chronic medical complaints.

D. Keith Cobb M.D. is an internal medicine physician and the author of “The Grief Survival Handbook: A Guide from Heartache to Healing” (Trafford Publishing). Learn more about him at drkeithcobb.com.

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• At least one person 62 or older • Or disabled under 62 Must be capable of caring for your apartment.

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Building Features

• Fire sprinklers throughout • Limited entrances to building • Smoke detectors in every apartment • Emergency call buttons in every apartment • 24-hour desk clerks • Library • Coin operated laundry • All electric kitchen • Central heat & air conditioning • Ample closets & kitchen cabinets

bereavement, and the neurochemicals that produce it also contribute to irrational mood swings and uncontrollable irritability.

• On Site Wellness Center • Heat lamps and grab bars in tubs and showers • Maintenance work orders completed within 24 to 48 hours • Lighted parking on site • Exterior windows open for fresh air • Small pets welcome (15 lbs. limit) • Subsidized TV cable.

Senior Connection • January 2012 • page 18

• Fully equipped 1BR apt.

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The Healthy Geezer

you may be permitted to play golf, walk and dance. However, more strenuous sports, such as tennis or . I’m considering having a running, may be discouraged. hip replaced. What are the There can be complications from odds that this operation will work? joint-replacement surgery. These include infection, blood clots, loosA: The American Academy of Orening of the prosthesis, dislocation thopaedic Surgeons says joint reof the joint, excessive wear, prosplacement surgery is successful in thetic breakage and nerve injury. more than 9 out of 10 people. And There are remedies for all of these replacement of a hip or knee lasts complications, but sometimes the at least 20 years in about 80 percent correction will take more surgery. of those who have the surgery.

Surgeons are refining techniques In the procedure, an arthritic or and developing new ones, such as damaged joint is removed and reminimal-incision surgery. There is placed with an artificial joint called a surgical alternative to total hip a “prosthesis.” Artificial joints are replacement. It’s called hip resurmedical devices that must be cleared facing. The primary difference in or approved by the FDA before they hip resurfacing is that the surgeon can be marketed in the United States. doesn’t remove the ball at the top The goal of surgery is to relieve the of the thigh bone. Instead, the dampain in the joint caused by the damaged ball is reshaped, and then a age done to cartilage, the tissue that metal cap is anchored over it. serves as a protective cushion and Hip resurfacing, unlike hip replaceallows smooth, low-friction movement, preserves enough bone to permit ment of the joint. Total joint replacea total replacement if it is necessary ment is considered if other treatlater. Resurfacing is not recomment options will not bring relief.

In an arthritic knee, the damaged ends mended for patients with osteoporosis, of the bones and cartilage are replaced a disease that makes bones porous and vulnerable to fractures. Some with metal and plastic surfaces that are shaped to restore knee function. In healthcare experts advise getting a replacement hip joint, not a resuran arthritic hip, the damaged ball and facing, if you are older than 65. socket of this joint are replaced by a If you would like to read more metal ball and plastic socket. Several columns, you can order a copy of metals are used, including stainless steel, alloys of cobalt and chrome, and “How to be a Healthy Geezer” at healthygeezer.com. All Rights titanium. The plastic material is durable and wear-resistant polyethylene. Reserved © 2011 by Fred Cicetti.

The two most common joints requiring this form of surgery are the knee and hip, which are weight-bearing. But replacements can also be performed on other joints, including the ankle, foot, shoulder, elbow and fingers.

After total hip or knee replacement you will often stand and begin walking the day after surgery. Initially, you will walk with a walker, crutches or a cane.

Most patients have some temporary pain in the replaced joint because the surrounding muscles are weak from inactivity and the tissues are healing, but it will end in a few weeks or months.

Exercise is an important part of the recovery process. After your surgery,

BY FRED CICETTI

Q

Q

: How does Social Security decide if I am disabled?

A: If you are an adult, you must be unable to work for a year or more because of a medical condition or combination of medical impairments. Overall, we use a five-step evaluation process to decide whether you are disabled. The process considers any current work activity you are doing. It also considers your medical condition and how it affects your ability to work. To be found disabled: • You must be unable to do work you did before you became disabled and we must decide you cannot adjust to other work because of your medical condition; and • Your disability must last, or be expected to last, for at least one year or to result in death.

Social Security pays only for total disability. We do not pay benefits for partial or short-term disability.

For more information, read our publication Disability Benefits at socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10029.html.

Q: If I go back to work, will I automatically lose my Social Security disability benefits?

A: Social Security has several work incentive programs to help people who want to work. You may be able to receive benefits and continue your health care coverage during a trial work period. For information about Social Security’s work incentives and how they can help you return to work, you should: For details, visit socialsecurity.gov or call toll-free at 1-800-772-1213.

Senior Connection • January 2012 • page 19

Technology—Of Lovers and Liars T

wo stories from the world of technology caught our eye recently.

The first is heartwarming; the second shows that people will be people, no matter what.

Ed proposed to Molly on Valentine’s Day and they married in June surrounded by 25 friends and family.

Liar, Liar, Hard Drive on Fire It’s the face-to-face meeting that makes the difference. A Finding Love at new study finds that commuAges 90 and 82 nication using computers for It’s never too late to find instant messaging and email love. Just ask 90-year-old increases lying compared to Molly Holder and 82-yearface-to-face conversations, old Ed Nisbett who got and that email messages are married in June and honmost likely to contain lies. eymooned in Jamaica. The Underlying this is the connewlyweds met last Nocept of deindividualization, vember—on Match.com.

Molly joined Match.com (PRNewsFoto/Breezes Resorts where as people grow psy& Spas and Match.com) chologically and physically “on impulse” and quickly made a digital connection Match.com newlyweds, further from the person they ages 90 and 82, are in communication with, with Ed through their honeymooning at Breezes there is a higher likelihood shared interest in reading Grand Negril, Jamaica. of lying, researchers say. poetry and drinking The takeaway: The internet allows scotch. When the Tallahassee, Florida, people to feel freer, psychologically couple met in person in January, no speaking, to use deception, at least one could doubt that their chemistry when meeting new people. was instant. With no time to waste,

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Senior Connection • January 2012 • page 20

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Hearing Loss and Invisible Hearing Solutions H earing loss is one of the most common conditions affecting older adults. Approximately 36 million (17 percent) of American adults say that they have some degree of hearing loss. Roughly one-third of Americans 65 to 74 years of age and 47 percent of those 75 and older have hearing loss.

Hearing loss comes in many forms. It can range from a mild loss in which a person misses certain high-pitched sounds, a wax build-up that creates a temporary hearing loss, to a total loss of hearing. It can be hereditary or it can result from disease, trauma, certain medications or long-term exposure to loud noises.

The most common form of hearing loss, presbycusis, is the loss of hearing that gradually occurs in most individuals as they grow older.

Sadly, many people affected with hearing loss are reluctant to seek help.

Untreated hearing loss poses considerable negative social, psychological, cognitive and health effects.

A thorough hearing test is the first step in determining if you do in fact have hearing loss. A hearing test is a quick, painless and non-invasive test performed by a Hearing Healthcare Provider. The test begins with a thorough case history, which assists the hearing professional with specific health information that may provide insight into hearing loss causes and will assist them in determining the prescribed course of action.

Following the test, the hearing professional will discuss the results with you and may provide further recommendations, including treatment options like hearing aids.

If you suspect you have a hearing loss it is important to have your hearing tested as soon as possible.

The “use-it or lose-it” principle applies to our hearing; the sooner you treat hearing loss, the better the outcome of treatment.

Today’s hearing aids are super-small (many completely invisible) and stylish, but it’s their performance that makes them so attractive.

Ultra-miniature computers using parallel processing can analyze, shape and deliver sound to each ear’s prescription needs. This results in soft sounds being audible and speech clear, even in background noise.

If that weren’t enough, these hearing devices are now wireless, allowing for hands free Bluetooth connections to your TV, cell phone and even your car’s navigation system. As technology gets more advanced, it becomes more readily available at multiple price points.

“Invisible Hearing Aids” have been receiving a lot of press lately, most recently with Matt Lauer on the TODAY show. During the segment they discussed different types of hearing devices available today and the Lyric hearing device was specifically mentioned. Invisible hearing devices like the Lyric fit very deep in the ear canal and are worn 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, even in the shower.

Having “always on” hearing allows you to be at your best at all times and removes the need for daily insertion and changing of batteries.

There are many hearing solutions to bridge those frustrating communication gaps. Enjoy reconnecting with your loved ones again.

It’s a New Year and a great time for new beginnings for better hearing.

To learn more about hearing loss and hearing correction, or to schedule a free hearing test and consultation, call Sound Advice Hearing Solutions at (727) 822-2132 or visit www.soundadviceflorida.com.

Senior Connection • January 2012 • page 21

The Insulated Glass Standard: Double Pane Windows

O We Have A Ton of Manufacturer’s incentives to share with you!

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ne of the most notable advancements in window technology (since men figured out how to make glass) is the double pane window.

Much more than a sheet of glass separating the indoors from the outdoors, double pane windows serve as insulation by utilizing dead air space.

A single pane window is great for looking through and stopping the weather, but is it insulating? Double pane windows—two panes of glass with a gap in between— are the standard for insulated glass. The space in between the two panes is filled with either air or an inert, non-toxic gas, like argon.

Energy Star® qualified windows offer the following benefits:

• Energy savings—realistically, 15 to 25 percent. (Replacing individual windows rather than upgrading entire homes or floors will not yield intended energy savings. Old windows will still leak air even if you install one double-paned one.)

• Improved comfort—because they can block 70 percent or more of the solar heat in summer and reflect radiant heat indoors during winter. This eliminates “hot spots” in summer’s intense heat and “cold spots” in winter’s chill.

• Protection of the home’s interior— things like photos, furniture, flooring and window treatments which become faded or discolored.

• Reduced condensation—which can damage window sills and encourage growth of mold.

• Noise reduction of up to 80 percent.

Options

Double-pane windows are easily crafted into whatever type or shape of window you desire. Common double-paned replacement window styles that are manufactured include • Double Hung Windows • Casement Windows • Bow Windows • Bay Windows • Fixed Windows • Picture Windows Along with window style options, homeowners also have glass and window frame options. Here is a list of these options.

Types of Glass:

• Clear Glass • Heat-Absorbing Glass • Low Emissivity (Low-E) Glass • Reflective Glass

Costs

Double pane windows cost more than single pane windows.

Prices vary depending on size, shape, style and the glazing of glass.

A qualified representative can guide you in choosing what you need.

Quality matters to get the full comfort and energy/cost savings available with double pane windows.

Both window quality and professional installation are key.

Word of mouth is one of the best ways to find window professionals. Joseph Shumaker of Morgan Exteriors in Lutz reminds homeowners interested in replacing their windows that “your windows are only as good as the installation. Know that you’re using a professional who gives a lifetime warranty.”

Information from Energy Star®, doorandwindow.com and homeguide123.com.

Energy Star®, a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency program, helps us all save money and protect the environment through energy efficient products and practices.

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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.

Senior Connection • January 2012 • page 23

Discover The Springs South Pasadenaʼs Hidden Treasure

Welcome to The Springs at Boca Ciega Bay, located in beautiful South Pasadena on the campus of The Fountains at Boca Ciega Bay. We’re not your typical skilled nursing facility.

We are a 109 bed Medicare certified Rehab Center offering a variety of health care services: • Skilled Nursing • Wound Care • Social Services • Full scale beauty salon • Individualized activities • State-of-the-art Rehab.

We offer Customized Rehab programs 7 days a week both in-patient and out-patient including Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy.

We specialize in: • Orthopedic • Stroke/Neuro • Cardiac programs by utilizing state-of-the-art equipment including Anodyne therapy and Natilus equipment, just to name a few.

We make admissions easy! We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Our experienced and licensed Nurse Liaison, will meet you at hospital bedside or in your home. If you have a surgery planned, why not come in for a tour and take the mystery out of the admission process. Call (727) 599-1390.

The Springs At Boca Ciega Bay 1255 Pasadena Ave. St. Petersburg, FL 33707

(727) 828-3500

Senior Connection • January 2012 • page 24

Ask Dr. Marion

M

y mother is 85 and lives alone. She is adamant about staying in her own home, but I worry about her safety.

How can I make sure her surroundings are as safe as possible? —Katherine, 58, Ohio

You’re right to be concerned; the most innocent rooms in the house can be potential danger zones for the elderly. But with a few common sense steps, you can make your mom’s home a safer place. I recently partnered with Medical Alert to develop a reference guide called Elder Home Safety (download it free at MedicalAlert.com). Some highlights: • Look around each and every room to assess potential hazards. Get rid of that electric blanket, toss those throw rugs in the hallway—they’re an accident waiting to happen!

Check the batteries in the smoke and CO2 detectors. And so on.

• Increase the wattage of light bulbs for better sight, replace round doorknobs with levers for easier opening and set the temperature of the water heater no higher than 120 degrees F. • In the kitchen: consider replacing regular dishes with non-breakable styles.

• In the bathroom: I cannot say enough about safety rails. Add them inside and right outside the shower or tub and also by the toilet.

• Consider technology: phones with larger buttons, computerless e-mail services, home monitoring systems that protect your elder while preserving their privacy, etc.

With a little effort, you should be able to create a safe environment for your mom, so she can stay in her home longer—without stressing you out.

Visit DrMarion.com for more info.

Estate Planning Frequently Asked Questions What is a Durable What is Medicaid planning?

Power of Attorney?

Medicaid planning allows Durable Power of a nursing home resident to Attorney is a document avoid using his/her assets to that authorizes another pay for nursing home care. person to act for you. That What are trusts? person is called your agent.

A trust is an agreement This document allows your dealing with assets. The agent to avoid the time and Beverly Shaw, P.A. Settlor is the creator of the significant cost of petitioning Trust who appoints a Trustee the court to appoint a guardian to act to hold the legal title to the assets for you if you become incompetent. for the benefit of the Beneficiary.

What is a Living Will and Health Do I need a trust?

Care Surrogate Designation?

Trusts offer a number of important A Living Will is a declaration to benefits, including probate avoidance; health care providers that expresses guardianship avoidance; and control your wishes regarding life-sustaining of distribution and management of procedures if you have a terminal assets during life and after death. illness or if you are in a persistent Call today for a free consultation vegetative state. You may direct that concerning estate planning and such life-sustaining procedures be asset protection. withheld or withdrawn, or you may direct that they be used to sustain your Beverly Thomson Shaw, P.A. 5521 Central Avenue life. A Designation of Health Care St. Petersburg, FL 33710 Surrogate appoints an agent to make (727) 327-9222 decisions related to your health care.

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Bidding Farewell to Your Home Insurance Discounts

The invention of the year is great news for your ears Perfect Choice HD™ is easy to use, hard to see and costs far less than hearing aids… it’s like reading glasses for your ears™!

some old photos of your home which include favorite memories from your years living here. You will have this book to look through if you become homesick during the adjustment phase in your new home or just as a fun way to remember your current home and your good memories.

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institute, there is Perfect Choice HD. It’s designed to accurately amplify sounds and deliver them to your ear. Because we’ve developed an efficient production process, we can make a great product at an affordable price. The unit has been designed to have an easily accessible battery, but it is small and lightweight enough to hide behind your

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1-877-671-5845 Perfect Choice HD is not a hearing aid. If you believe you need a hearing aid, please consult a physician.

3. Consider those who will benefit from the home you are passing on.

It may be hard when you’re leaving a long-time residence to consider the value of what you are passing on to the new owner, but this passing on is often the wonderful result of this process. I went back and visited the home where I grew up and saw how much the young family who bought my parents’ house was enjoying it.

BY SUE RONNENKAMP They have done some wonderful remodeling, and the house and f you’re preparing for your own downsizing, or if you’re right-sizing yard look fully lived in again.

If you live in a neighborhood where for a new stage of life, think about many of the older houses are being how you might say goodbye and bring torn down or totally remodeled, it closure leaving Class your current home.

Taketo Your Online! may be harder to think of letting You may not feel that this is a high yourafear that your • Study yourofleisure, 24else hoursgoabecause day, 7 ofdays week. priority in theatmidst everything home will disappear once you• must do related move,materials but current Simply read to theyour course online and then answer you sell it. Remember that you had it is important.

Bringing some level a few quiz questions. the wonderful gift of living in the of closure with your current home, • There is no need to attend boring or for listen homeclasses you created manytoyears. and allowing yourself time to grieve Once you decide to pass your home longarelectures. this loss, essential parts of the on to new owners, please accept transition Treat endings with we • Afterprocess. completion, of course will issue a state-certified that they do have a right to a totally as much importance as beginnings and certificate for you to turn intodifferent your insurance company to picture of what they want use this opportunity to say goodbye. receive your discount for a three period. theiryear own dream home to be.

1. Make plans for bringing closure 4. Realize that you can create a new with your Your currentMature home. OneDriver way is Course Take TheFully Internet! home for On yourself. realize that by recalling your favorite memories you can create a new home of this home—room-by-room, alone License and are 55 yearsfor If you have a Florida Driver’s ofyourself anywhere you live.

What you are or with or friends.

Tears may age family or older, you are now eligible to complete motor vehicle leaving is just a house. You are taking come with this process, but that’s accident prevention course that willtrue allow you toyou receive your home with and cana creokay —leaving a place you have ate it again wherever you living. mandatory reduction on your insurance rate for threeareyears. called “home” can be very emotional.

Remember: Home is where you Maybe plan a party, especially fitting are, home is what you create, home Florida Department of Highway Safety if this is the house where you raised is not the physical your family. Ask each&person prepare Approved Course structure.

MotortoVehicle to share a favorite memory of your Sue Ronnenkamp is a retirement home. Make sure everyone leaves with living and transition expert. Her work your new address and phone number so focuses on planning ahead, embracing they can stay in touch after your move. change, moving forward, and living every season of life to the fullest.

2. Create a memory book for your For more information, visit Sue’s home, maybe with one of your website at AgeFullLiving.com. children or grandchildren. Include (SENIOR WIRE) current pictures of your home and

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Take the Grandkids—A Day Trip Just for Fun

BY AMY WITHEROW

W

e stopped recently in Sebring and spent several hours in the incredibly wonderful Children’s Museum of the Highlands with Brandon, 4, and Caitlin, 7. Linda Crowder, Museum Director, has spent over 20 years creating exhibits that children will love.

There are more than 20 areas of play, and kids can spend hours just enjoying themselves. Parents and grandparents are encouraged to play as well—as I did with some of the more popular exhibits. They include a grocery store, a diner, a model train, a race car, an airplane, a fire truck, a postal truck, a fire tower, a construction area, a television station, a hospital, a theater stage and a bank area (complete with safe deposit boxes).

Each area is well-maintained and the quality of the exhibits speaks highly to the ingenuity of Crowder, who is the museum’s only full-time employee, serving as everything from director to maintenance person.

Brandon tries on wigs in the theater.

Crowder says, “The museum is ideal for children ages 2 – 12, especially 4 – 9 year olds, but even middle schoolers enjoy visiting. Older kids like the optical illusions, which involve more reading than the other exhibits.”

Younger siblings can enjoy a toddlerfriendly play area in the middle of the

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playgrounds within a 10-minute walk of each other and offers a tram tour, which might be better for older kids since it requires remaining seated for 75 minutes. The tram travels into remote areas of the park where visitors might see alligators, turtles, wading birds and more. Or, you can take a walk on the elevated boardwalk over the Caitlin flies the cypress swamp. kid-sized airplane.

A day trip to Sebring is well worth the drive. The Our family went to Dee’s, which grandkids (and their grandparents) was right across the street. Dee’s is are sure to have a great time! family-friendly down-home cooking.

The museum is located at If you choose not to return to the 219 N. Ridgewood Dr., Sebring. museum after lunch, consider spendOpen Tuesday through Saturday. ing a couple of hours in the afternoon Call (863) 385-KIDS (5437) or visit at the nearby Highlands Hammock State Park. The park has three separate childrensmuseumhighlands.com.

museum, surrounded by padded walls that can double as benches for adults.

There are several local lunch options, and the attendant at the front desk will be happy to stamp your hand if you plan on returning after your meal.

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• After completion, of course we will issue a state-certified certificate for you to turn into your insurance company to receive your discount for a three year period.

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or call 1-800-771-2255 Senior Connection • January 2012 • page 27

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Senior Connection • January 2012 • page 28

Finding PEace on I-95–Road Trip Must-Sees

BY STAN AND SANDRA PHILLIPS

W

hen the Martin Luther King Memorial opened recently on the Mall in DC, we started thinking about the other amazing statues you can see right off the exits of I-95. You can turn your next trip into a treasure hunt to find these carved jewels.

Travel DC – King of Peace

DC Exit 19B: 27 years in the making, a National Memorial to Martin Luther King opened to the public on the 48th anniversary of his “I have a dream” speech. The Mall in Washington, D.C., always a sacred place for monuments dedicated to expresidents, now honors King for his accomplishments as well.

The sculpture shows King emerging from rough stone with his brow furrowed, arms crossed and looking out over the horizon. Long granite walls flanking the sides feature 14 of King’s most famous quotes.

The Chinese sculptor Lei Yixin wanted to show him deep in thought and named it the Stone of Hope.

The words were borrowed from his speech, “From a mountain of despair, a stone of hope.”

King proves that one person can truly change a nation. mlkmemorial.org.

DE – Lady of Peace

DE Rte. 9 Exit: You can’t miss Our Lady Queen of Peace, high on a hill with her arms outstretched in front of Holy Spirit Church, with the sun bouncing off the 33’ high stainless steel statue.

Father Sweeney started the project with the power of prayer. A committee used “Rosary Checks” to record the number of rosaries that an individual prayed for the building of a statue. The goal was for 500,000. Not only did the number of rosaries prayed exceed this, but unsolicited donations came in before any formal fund raising began.

This sculpture by Charles C. Parks is sometimes referred to as “Our Lady of the Highways,” since it sits majestically on the approach to the the Delaware Memorial Bridge. ourlady-de.org.

MD – Disturbing his Peace MD Exit 2A: In the newest city along I-95, National Harbor, see if you can find the giant who appears to be emerging from the sand, struggling to free himself.

It’s called “The Awakening,” and kids use him as a playground.

Created in 1980 by J. Seward Johnson Jr., the sculpture is actually five separate aluminum pieces buried in the sand. The left hand and right foot barely protrude, while the bent left leg and knee jut into the air. The 17-foot high right arm and hand reach farther out of the earth. The bearded face seems to be yelling as he struggles to emerge from the earth. nationalharbor.com.

NC – End of War – Beginning of Peace

NC Exit 150A: Directly off this exit, at the entrance to the Quantico Marine Base, you can see a re-creation of the famous WWII Iwo Jima Statue created by Felix de Weldon.

It is majestically lit up at night.

In a 35 day fight for Iwo Jima, an island that was crucial for U.S. bombing raids on Japan’s main islands, 6,821 marines were killed. On February 23, 1945 U.S. Marines from the 28th Regiment, 5th Division, raised the U.S. flag atop Iwo Jima’s Mount Suribachi.

After being cast in Brooklyn, NY, the original statue actually was driven down I-95, headed to Arlington National Cemetery, where you can still see it.

NC – Keeping the Peace

NC Exit 52B: “The original Iron Mike is a statue that represents all paratroopers in the U.S. Army,” said Paul Galloway of the Airborne and Special Ops Museum foundation. It’s a 15-foot statue depicting the airborne trooper who is always watching, waiting and alert. It has been Fort Bragg’s most prominent symbol since 1961, but was replaced there six

years ago with a bronze replica. Now everyone can see the original standing outside the Airborne and Special Ops Museum in Fayetteville, NC. The statue was the creation of the wife of a former deputy post chaplain.

Mike’s stance reflects an airborne soldier who has completed a combat jump. PFC Michael A. Scambellure, an 82nd Airborne Division soldier who received the Silver Star for his heroic actions in Sicily, originally inspired the statue. Notice his jaw set with determination, the grenade at the ready, the trench knife at the boots and the Thompson 45. asomf.org.

ME – Piece of Chocolate

ME Exit 42: If you’ve come north to see a moose, you will not be disappointed if you stop here. Lenny the chocolate moose is made of 1,700 lbs. of milk chocolate. He was unveiled on July 1, 1997 after having been sculpted on-site in about four weeks.

The shop was opened in 1926 by Len Libby, a master candymaker who was retired but bored. In 1949, Len Libby sold his business to Fernand Hemond, who had apprenticeed here while still in college.

Since you can’t eat Lenny, you will have to choose amongst treats like raspberry cream, coconut roll, peanut butter log, molasses chip, chocolate pretzel and more. If that wasn’t enough, they have 18 kinds of truffles and sugar-free options too. 419 U.S. Route 1. lenlibby.com.

For an exit-by-exit guide on lodging, food, gas, fun facts, attractions and more, read “Drive I-95 5th Edition” or visit drivei95.com.

Senior Connection • January 2012 • page 29

Ever Wonder...

W

hy does the sun lighten our hair, but darken our skin?

Why can’t women put on mascara with their mouth closed?

Why don’t you ever see the headline “Psychic Wins Lottery?”

Why is “abbreviated” such a long word?

Why is it that doctors call what they do ‘“practice?”

Why is lemon juice made with artificial flavor, and dish washing liquid made with real lemons?

Why is the man who invests all your money called a broker?

Why is the time of day with the slowest traffic called rush hour?

Why isn’t there mouse-flavored cat food?

Why didn’t Noah swat those two mosquitoes?

Why do they sterilize the needle they use for lethal injections?

You know that indestructible black box that is used on airplanes? Why don’t they make the whole plane out of that stuff?!

Why don’t sheep shrink when it rains?

Why are they called apartments when they are all stuck together?

If con is the opposite of pro, is Congress the opposite of progress?

If flying is so safe, why do they call the airport the terminal?

Senior Connection • January 2012 • page 30

National Park Service Passes Available by Mail

L

ifetime passes to America’s national parks for senior citizens and Americans with disabilities are now available through the mail or at national parks.

Many parks have trails, campsites and picnic areas that are accessible to people with limited mobility and to wheelchair users. The Senior ($10) and Access (free and available regard-

less of age for those with permanent disabilities) passes provide admission to federal recreation sites that charge entrance or amenity fees. Both passes require a $10 processing fee to receive by the mail. Download and print applications at nps.gov.passes, complete along with proper documentation and applicable document processing fees.

Parking Fees Going Up

P

arking fees are going up to $5 at three of Pinellas County’s largest waterfront parks—Fred Howard in Tarpon Springs, Sand Key in Clearwater and Fort De Soto south of Tierra Verde.

One daily fee allows visitors to visit any or all of these three parks. No feeding

the meters or watching the clock. All three parks in one day? Sure. Leave and come back later that day? Sure.

An annual parking pass is $75 ($55 for seniors) for your favorite park. Information at pinellascounty.org/parks or call (727) 582-2100.

Continuum of care – allowing you and your family peace of mind as lifestyle needs change. Pets Welcome Call For More Information 727-669-5261 www.bayviewgardensonline.com 2855 Gulf to Bay Blvd. • Clearwater, FL 33759 Single Story Villas for Independent Living

Prices starting at $1035/mo.

Accepting Medicaid Diversion Assisted Living Facility Lic. # AL11209

Senior Connection • January 2012 • page 31

When the Telegraph was Twitter, BRIDGE BITES She was a Media Rock Star

A

mericans are mesmerized by superstar pin-ups, an attraction that can outlive the seductress herself. Case in point: Nearly 50 years after her death, Marilyn Monroe returned to the silver screen recently in “My Week with Marilyn,” starring Michelle Williams.

With all respect to that blonde seductress, author and historian Michael Foster says an even older femme fatale could be an even bigger box-office draw.

Alas, he notes, few know the name Adah Menken, darling of soldiers on both sides in the Civil War. The actress had more chutzpah than Monroe and showed a lot more skin than World War II’s favorite pin-up, Betty Grable, write Foster and coauthor Barbara Foster in their new biography, A Dangerous Woman.

“When the telegraph was Twitter, Adah owned the media. Her scandals made front-page headlines,” Foster says. “Long before Demi Moore posed naked on the cover of Vanity Fair, Adah was ‘“The Naked Lady.”And by the time she died at age 33, she had matched Elizabeth Taylor husband for husband—five—by the same age.”

A number of recent movies and TV episodes have been based on Adah Menken. In “Bonanza,” she was played by Ruth Roman. “Sophia Loren played her in ‘Heller in Pink Tights’ opposite Anthony Quinn,” says Foster. “In the recent movie ‘Sherlock Holmes,’ Rachel McAdams plays an athletic, seductive Irene/Adah. The Sherlock Holmes story ‘A Scandal in Bohemia,’ filmed several times for TV, features Irene Adler playing a character clearly based on Menken.”

From The American Contract Bridge League

BY BRIAN GUNNELL

O

f course they are! You just lead towards the AQ or KJ or some such holding, and, when fate is kind, an extra trick materializes. But, if they can, experienced players will avoid the whims of fate, as in this deal.

Last Month’s Answers

Dec. Sudoku

Pauline Pare is last month’s winner!

Congratulations!

Win Great Prizes!

New winner selected each month

Good Luck!

Jan. 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 Jan. 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

WIN! WIN! WIN! GREAT PRIZES!

SUDOKU MUST BE RECEIVED BY JAN. 21, 2012

Senior Connection • January 2012 • page 32

West leads the Q♥, and Declarer can see a certain loser in Hearts and another in Diamonds. So, if 4♠ is to make, then Declarer must avoid losing two Clubs. Any ideas?

One way to play Clubs (after drawing trumps) is to finesse the Ten, hoping that West has the King and the Queen.

Finesses Are Easy

That’s somewhat unlikely (around 25 percent). Another possibility is to finesse the Eight, and later finesse the Ten, hoping that West has K9 or Q9. That’s a 37 percent chance. Or, Declarer might run the Jack, giving himself the extra chance that West might neglect to cover with his honor.

Which finesse will you choose?

The correct answer is that you don’t care for any of these finesses, you much prefer the 100 percent method! Draw trumps, cash the red suit winners and exit with a Heart (or a Diamond). The defenders can take their Heart and Diamond tricks but now their goose is cooked.

If they lead another red card then Declarer pitches a Club loser from one hand and ruffs in the other hand (the so-called “ruff and sluff”). And if they break open Clubs then Declarer will lose only one trick in the suit. Yes, finesses are easy, especially when you can avoid taking them!

Visit acbl.org for more about the fascinating game of bridge or e-mail marketing@acbl.org.

To find a bridge club in Florida, go to district9acbl.org/D9Clubsmap.htm Bridge article provided courtesy of St. Petersburg Bridge Club; online at stpetebridge.org.

Check Us Out Online!

Senior Connection Is Now On and

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Visit www.twitter.com/MaturLifeStyles or click the Facebook icon on seniorconnectionfl.com for the latest news, contests and fun events in your area.

Share your comments with us!

Nutritionally Hot Recipes for Oatmeal A

steaming hot bowl of oatmeal provides a delicious—and healthy—start to a day. And we’ve all heard that eating oats may help protect against high cholesterol, diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity.

Here are three ideas to boost the nutrition further:

Recipe • Make oatmeal with calcium-rich milk instead of water. Follow the same directions given for water, just use milk instead.

• Kick the nutrition up another notch by serving oatmeal with antioxidantrich berries, either fresh or frozen.

• Sprinkle oatmeal with cinnamon for sweetness and possible health benefits.

Word Search

Stir mixture once more and transfer to an 8 x 8 baking pan that’s been coated generously with cooking spray. (You could also use two small loaf pans.)

Bake in preheated 350 degree oven for 35 minutes. To serve, cut into squares and drizzle each serving with maple syrup.

Recipe from mrbreakfast.com.

Baked Banana Raisin Oatmeal

3 eggs 2 very ripe bananas, mashed 3 c. quick or old-fashioned oats 1 ½ c. low-fat milk ½ c. raisins ½ c. honey ¼ c. oil 1 tsp. baking powder 2 tsp. cinnamon 1 tsp. vanilla Lightly beat eggs. Add all remaining ingredients. Stir until well combined.

Let mixture set at least 10 minutes for oats to absorb some of the liquid.

Orange Cranberry Slow Cooker Oatmeal

1 c. old fashion rolled oats 1 c. chopped apple 1/2 c. dried cranberries 1 tbsp. butter melted 1 tbsp. cinnamon 1/8 tsp. salt 1 c. orange juice 1 c. water

Spray the inside of slow cooker with non stick cooking spray. Stir all the ingredients together in a bowl.

Poor into slow cooker. Cook on very low or warm for 9 hours. Serves 6.

Word Search Jan. 2012

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

December 2011

Marion McClain is last month’s winner!

Congratulations!

&

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 January 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 Jan. 21, 2012.)

Senior Connection • January 2012 • page 33

Senior Connection • January 2012 • page 34

Senior Connection • January 2012 • page 35

Seniors Getting Together WOMEN SEEKING MEN 4080 SEEKING NICE GENTLEMAN White, Christian female, never smoke, wine with my dinner (a glass). Honest, healthy, music, exercises, travel, etc. Please send a recent photo.

4087 SEEKING NICE GENTLEMAN White, single female, 71 years young, NS, ISO someone for companionship, eating out, movies and sports.

4089 HONEST, KIND, PRETTY, FUN young 75 WWF looking for kind, intelligent, healthy, gentleman open to love and true togetherness, friendship and more. Good music, conversation, reading, going out, all pleasantries.

4091 ATTRACTIVE DBF, 71, 5’5” full figure, healthy, BS degree, good values and morals, NS, SD, sincere. Enjoys God-given pleasures of life. Seeks same qualities in tall SBM, 70-plus for friendship. Will exchange photographs.

4093 CHRISTIAN WWBF, 63, ATTRACTIVE, honest, sincere, who loves the Lord. ISO a true Christian

black gentleman who believes in the same. Love good home cooking, sports, fishing. A good SOH. 55 – 72. FF, write. Tampa.

4095 POLITE COUNTRY GAL, not vulgar, 62, has no criminal background, ISO snowbird male for friendship. Phone or pen pal ok.

MEN SEEKING WOMEN 4081 EAST INDIAN MALE, 64 YEARS, professional, seeking a soulmate. White female, petite, attractive, into the spiritual nature. Photo. St. Petersburg.

4082 SEEKS BLACK FEMALE DWM, 58, 5’9”, 190 lbs., sense of humor, great personality, NS, SD. Enjoys beaches, basketball, dining, travel, casino and more. Seeking BF, any age. Please send photo and phone. Pinellas County.

4084 LETS TEE IT UP 76 YO WM, HWP, WW, financially secure, SD, NS, NDRG, ISO lady golfing partner.

Ability not important; enthusiasm is. Also interested in dining, walks,

RUN YOUR AD FOR ONLY $6 A MONTH

SENIORS GETTING TOGETHER Personal Ad Placement

Deadline for ads is the 15th of the month prior to placement.

swimming, movies and more, including possible LTR. Hillsborough.

4086 W, WW, 71 YRS, 5’7”, 160 lbs., smoker, likes dining out, walks, flea market, etc. Seeks lady 60 – 75 yrs. for LTR. Tarpon Springs.

4090 ISO PHYSICALLY FIT CHRISTIAN LADY, willing to relocate to my new home on SE side of Plant City, FL. I’m retired and tired of being alone. Plant City.

4094 SEEKING A LOVING LADY, 70+ YY, enjoys movies, dining out, travel, dancing and more. I’m W, M, WW, 5’8”, 175 lbs., NS, SD, Zephyrhills.

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

Mark your calendar for these great FREE events near you, brought to you by Senior Connection magazine! Find great information, entertainment, health screenings, prizes, giveaways and more! Call 888-670-0040 for more info.

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

Ad Copy • Please Print Neatly • 30 Word Limit

February 23, 2012, (9 a.m. – 1 p.m.)

16th Senior Fun Fest and Backwoods Walk Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI), Tampa, FL Exhibitors, Prizes, Free Entertainment, Health Screenings, Coffee. FREE Admission to MOSI and $2 parking. FREE Bingo Games for prizes! Walk starts at 8 a.m., fundraiser for kids science classes.

Title (First 4 Words):

City (No Charge):

Name: Address: City: Phone:

State:

Zip:

E-mail:

MAIL TO: SENIORS GETTING TOGETHER, C/O NEWS CONNECTION, USA, INC. 1602 S. PARSONS AVE., SEFFNER, FL 33584

Senior Connection • January 2012 • page 36

TO PLACE AN AD

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

Great Senior Events!

Only $6 to place an ad!

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

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

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

Fun Fest!

March 28, 2012, (10 a.m. – 3 p.m.)

2nd Senior Fun Fest, St. Petersburg Coliseum Live Music & Entertainment All Day, Free Bingo, Free Health Screenings, Free Coffee and Goodies, Senior Sports Area, $1,000s in Prizes & Giveaways & more! “Grandkids Are the Greatest” Photo Contest! Free Admission.

May 23, 2012, (9 a.m. – 2 p.m.)

Seminole 2nd Senior Fun Fest, Pinellas County Rec. Center Seminole Recreation Center Fun Fest Exhibitors, Free Entertainment, Bingo, Free Health Screenings, Free Coffee & Goodies, Prizes.

Last Month’s Answers

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ALARMCARE FILL IN ANSWERS & WIN MONEY!

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

Send to: News Connection USA, Inc., 1602 S. Parsons Ave, Seffner, FL 33584

I am interested in: Travel / Cruises Recreation / Leisure Entertainment / Events

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Send your answers for a drawing. First correct answers selected from the drawing on June 19th will receive $20 cash! Send to: Mature Lifestyles, 220 W. Brandon Blvd., Suite 203, Brandon, FL 33511

Senior Connection • January 2012 • page 37

Pinellas Auditions: January 18 - 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Japanese Garden Mobile Estates 19709 U.S. Highway 19 North Clearwater, FL 33764-1006 Senior Talent Show: February 11, 2012 - 2:00 p.m.

Largo Cultural Center 105 Central Park Drive • Largo, FL 33779 SENIOR IDOL SHOW – APRIL 4, 2012 – 7:00 p.m.

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

Hillsborough Auditions: January 18 - 9:00 a.m. to noon Sun City Center Chamber of Commerce 1651 Sun City Center Plaza • Sun City, FL 33573 January 25 - 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m Brandon Community Center 502 East Sadie Street • Brandon, FL 33510 Senior Talent Show February 18, 2012 - 3:00 p.m.

Spoto High School 8538 Eagle Palm Drive Riverview, FL 33578

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

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

For Information call: Pinellas: 727-329-2618 – Susan Juhl and Nicole Woodring Hillsborough: 813-436-2296 – Andrea White and Chrissy Crumpton Senior Connection • January 2012 • page 38

Timeless Advice about Worry W orrying is one behavior shared by just about everybody. Yet we all know that worrying never got a project done or solved a personal problem.

Here is timeless, practical advice on handling worry in a high-pressure world.

Use this 3-step formula for solving worry situations:

a. Analyze the situation and figure out the worst case scenario.

b. Prepare yourself to accept the worst possible consequence, whatever it is, and then resolve to find a way to live with the results.

c. Concentrate on how you can improve the worst case situation you’ve already accepted mentally.

F

ree educational workshops titled “Social Security Planning for Boomers: What Everyone Needs to Know” have been scheduled at these times and places: Thursday, Jan. 12: 3 p.m. at Palm Harbor Library.

$2 OFF for

In the Security of your Home

seniors

This information is from the website dalecarnegie.com.

Boomer Retirement Seminars A New Generation of Retirees Prepares to Collect Benefits

Personalized Computer Training

Tuesday, Jan. 24: 6:30 p.m. at Dunedin Community Center.

Thursday, Feb. 2: 6:30 p.m. at Clearwater Campus Library of St. Petersburg College.

Thursday, Feb. 9: 6:30 p.m. at Oldsmar Library.

Seating is limited and reservations are recommended. Individuals may reserve space by calling (727) 799-4723.

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

Senior $2offAdmission

(55+)

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

Expires December 31, 2011.

XSCA Expires January 31, 2012.Code Code XSCA

Clearwater Marine Aquarium 249 Windward Passage • Clearwater, FL 33767

(727) 441-1790

www.SeeWinter.com

H How to Login – Create Your ID & Password H Create, Read, and Send Emails H How to Open & Navigate Through a Website H Connect With Family & Friends & More

www.rentahand.com Call for an appointment

727-347-3424

At the Palladium

Wings of a Dove On the wings of a snow white dove He sends his pure sweet love A sign from above On the wings of a dove When troubles surround us When evils come The body grows weak The spirit grows numb When these things beset us He doesn’t forget us He sends down His love On the wings of a dove

6 and 7 Damon Fowler Group at Side Door.

14 “Turn Around, Look at Me,” The

Ultra-Plush E-Z Attach Stays Cool Washable Por table Durable

Vogues in Concert. $25.

27 Rhonda Vincent & The Rage, contemporary bluegrass.

28 Boogie Woogie Blues Piano Stomp—four boogie woogie and blues pianists on two grand pianos Multiple discounts available through the box office. Call (727) 822-3590 or visit mypalladium.org.

BRANDON Auto Clinic of Brandon ...... 813-654-8686 Xtreme Powersports ......... 813-626-6060 BROOKSVILLE Sunrunner Automotive ...... 352-596-2314 Napa Auto Parts ............... 352-796-4936 Master Auto/Air ................. 352-799-6444 Brooksville Transmission.. 352-796-6544 General Auto Parts ........... 352-796-2522 CLEARWATER M & M Ultrasports ............. 727-412-8020 Stouts Auto Service .......... 727-216-6622 DADE CITY Reliance Auto Center ....... 352-567-5281 HOLIDAY NAPA Auto Parts .............. 727-934-4651 HUDSON White’s Quality Trans ........ 727-862-1968 County Line Collision........ 727-861-7009

Don’s Love Doves

(727) 856-1571

www.donslovedoves.com

OLDSMAR Murray Motive ................... 813- 854-5115 PINELLAS PARK George’s Performance ..... 727- 521-2206 PORT RICHEY Parts Depot ....................... 727-844-5588 RUSKIN Thompson’s Auto Parts .... 813-645-3204 Walker’s Tire & Auto ......... 813-645-0736 ST. PETE Park Auto Service ............727-521-2910 Royal Edger ......................727-573-1700 Bob Lee’s Tires.................727-822-3981 Complete Auto Parts ........727-895-3821 Miles Automotive ..............727-323-0180 J.C. Automotive ................727-866-0044 St. Pete Power Sports ......727-456-6088 Suncoast Auto & Tire .......727-520-1148 SEFFNER Schembries Auto Serv...... 813-685-5654

SUN CITY Killingsworth Automotive .. 813-634-4758 Sun City Automotive ......... 813-634-4758 TAMPA John Erb’s ......................... 813-908-3333 Storm Automotive ............. 813-469-0055 Atlantic Automotive ........... 813-936-1510 Tony’s RamTech................ 813-877-6642 Insty Tune & Lube ............. 813-960-3908 Santiago Chopper ............. 813-671-9097 Xtreme Powersports ......... 813-626-6060 Mad Hatter ........................ 813-933-4179 Mad Hatter ........................ 813-374-9230 Mobile Auto Serv. ............. 813-892-3603 ZEPHYRHILLS “A” Team Cycles................ 813-763-3013

If you or your business would like to get AMSOIL products at Wholesale CALL 800-411-6160

Senior Connection • January 2012 • page 39

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