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

Happy Birthday Marilyn Monroe VOLUME 22, NUMBER 7

om c . eb ne r w azi u g it o Vis rma .s w ww ea s it

Fun Close to Home

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

SUNCOAST

JULY 2011

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

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

Dear Readers,

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

Finding My Heritage

Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 2

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

David Lalmond and Janice Doyle soar over the treetops.

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

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

(813) 653-1988 888-670-0040 Fax: (813) 651-1989 www.srmagazine.com Send press releases to:

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Lake/Marion Counties: Lake Edition

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

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

Retina Specialist Joins Updegraff Vision

or over a decade, Dr. Steve Updegraff has been helping Tampa Bay residents see more clearly by removing their cataracts and using high-tech lens implants. This summer, he is expanding the eye care services offered at Updegraff Vision by welcoming a new doctor into the practice. “Dr. Heeral Shah is an exceptional ophthalmologist who has specialized training in medical disorders of the retina,” says Dr. Updegraff. “I’m extremely pleased she is joining our practice so that we can better serve our patients.” Dr. Shah will focus on caring for patients with retinal diseases, including macular degeneration, diabetic eye diseases and retinopathy of prematurity. Macular degeneration is one of the primary causes of vision loss in older adults, and Dr. Shah has performed extensive research on it. “I’ve studied

macular degeneration and genetics—looking at who gets the wet, more severe, type, and why,” she says. Macular degeneration occurs when the macula, the central area of the retina, begins to deteriorate. Because the macula affects visual acuity, its degeneration impairs the central vision needed for recognizing faces or activities such as reading and driving. There are two types of macular degeneration: wet (neovascular) and dry (non-neovascular). Wet macular degeneration is much more severe and can be managed with laser treatments. On the other hand, “dry macular degeneration is very common, but it’s not diagnosed as much,” says Dr. Shah. Because it is less severe than the wet type, patients with dry macular degeneration often don’t see a doctor about it. However, she cautions, “there’s always a chance

that it can become the wet kind, so it’s very important that you at least see someone to be diagnosed.” Dr. Shah will care for patients with both types of macular degeneration. The wet type can be managed with laser treatments and other therapies, all of which she will offer. Dr. Shah also recommends that patients diagnosed with dry macular degeneration come in for an exam at least once a year to ensure it is not progressing into the wet type. Dr. Shah is excited to be coming to Tampa Bay. “It was a really easy decision to come to Updegraff Vision,” she says. “At the end of the day, patient health is the bottom line. That’s very important to me.” Heeral Shah, M.D., is available for appointments beginning in July. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, please call Updegraff Vision at (727) 551-2020.

See the Best™ – Better than Ever Tampa • St. Petersburg

For years now, you’ve trusted your eyes to LASIK pioneer and world-class refractive surgeon Dr. Steve Updegraff. This summer, Dr. Updegraff is proud to welcome fellowship-trained retinal specialist Dr. Heeral Shah to Updegraff Vision. Whether you’re getting LASIK, high-tech lens implants, cataract surgery, or the latest treatments for diabetic disease of the retina and macular degeneration, the choice is clear.

Updegraff Vision. See the best™. Steve Updegraff, M.D, FACS

Heeral Shah, M.D.

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“Follow” us or “Friend” us to keep up with Mature Lifestyles news, the latest information and fun events in your area. Get your “Smile for the Day!” or share your comments with us! Find our Facebook page at www.facebook.com under “Senior Connection and Mature Lifestyles.” Or visit us on Twitter at www. twitter.com/MaturLifestyles (without the “e”).

Celebrate Your Freedom! Happy 4th of July from

AAAHC-approved ambulatory surgery center on site

(888) USA-2015 • www.updegraffvision.com Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 3

From the producers of Menopause The Musical ®

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

hrough 17 “Fernand Leger: Le Cirque” exhibition at Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art, 600 Klosterman Rd., Tarpon Springs. (727) 712-5762.

By Sue Fabisch

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

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

NOW PLAYING!

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

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

At the Museum T 13

his month at the Leepa Rattner Museum of Art, Tarpon Springs:

On the Easel: Akiko Sugiyama, “Otohime’s Robe” Art Presentation at Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art, Tarpon Springs. Noon. Presentation and discussion of the work. Free with admission.

“Art, Books and Community (ABC) Reading

Group” 1:30 p.m. Read and discuss books about modern art and enjoy light refreshments “Jackson Pollock: A Biography” by Deborah Solomon. Free with admission.

Visual Acoustics: The Modernism of Julius Shulman, Art video documentary discussion. 3 p.m. Free.

Call for information: (727) 712-5762.

elebrate the holidays at Gulfside Regional Hospice’s Thrift Shoppes the whole month of July when all of the Thrift Shoppe locations hold Christmas in July! Christmas items are available at all five locations during this annual event. Gulfside Regional Hospice Thrift Shoppe locations:

Hudson Thrift Shoppe: 12154 U.S. Highway 19 in Bayonet Point; Lutz Thrift Shoppe: 21780 S.R. 54;

Dade City Thrift Shoppe: 37925 Sky Ridge Circle;

Info about Gulfside Regional Hospice at grhospice.org or (727) 845-5707.

Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 4

New Port Richey Thrift Shoppe: 3601 Universal Plaza;

Zephyrhills Thrift Shoppe: 36504 State Road 54.

hrough 17 Uncle Bends, A Home Cooked Negro Narrative. Presented at Studio@620. One-man narrative by playwright/actor Bob Devin Jones as he cooks up beans and rice for audiences while telling original stories of a railroad cook, a quilt-making grandmother, a shoeshine boy, a Biblethumping preacher and a slave woman. 9 – 11 p.m. 620 1st Ave. S., St. Pete. Info: (727) 895-6620 or studio620.org.

hrough September Discovering Southwest Florida with Thomas Edison and Henry Ford exhibit at Heritage Village, 11909 125th St. N., Largo. From the permanent estate in Fort Myers. See “old Florida” as it was from 1885 to the 1940s. Information at (727) 582-2125.

Elvis memorabilia, food vendors, music/shows all day. At the All People’s Life Center, 6105 E. Sligh Ave., Tampa. Visit ElvisTampaTCB. com or e-mail elvistampatcb@yahoo. com. Elvis hotline: (813) 977-6011.

“Damon Fowler Group in Concert,” at Side Door Cabaret, Palladium Theater, 253 5th Ave. N., St. Pete, 8 p.m. $13. Call for tickets (727) 822-3590.

through Sept. 4 Barefoot in the Park at American Stage Theatre. Neil Simon’s play from the ‘60s—a romantic comedy about marriage that has stood the test of time. 163 3rd St. N. Tickets: $29 – $50. Phone: (727) 823-7529.

Selena Gomez with special guests at Ruth Eckerd Hall. 7 p.m. Tickets are $39 to $78. Call (727) 791-7400 for details.

ug. 3 Coffee With a Dali Curator (first Wed. monthly) at The Dali Museum, downtown St. Pete. 10:15 a.m. coffee and refreshments followed by presentation from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Info online or at (727) 823-3767.

– 17 I Hate Hamlet, a summer story about New York City and the pursuit of stardom. $20 tickets. Largo Cultural Center, 105 Central Park Dr., Largo. Tickets at (727) 587-6793. – 10 One Act Play Festival by West Coast Players. Nine plays – see one or all. Fri. and Sat. at 8 p.m.; Sun. matinee at 2 p.m. $15 for all. No reservations. More at wcplayers.org or (727) 437-2363.

– 31 “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change” presented at New American Theater, Bay Walk Center, 183 2nd Ave. N. Comedy with four actors playing 40 roles. $27.50. Reservations online at newamericantheater.org, or box office (727) 575-9241.

Cool Art Show. Juried art show, fine art and crafts at the Coliseum. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Free admission and parking. Info at (727) 736-2976.

Tampa Elvis Festival/Contest: a celebration of the King’s music. Elvis events scheduled from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Elvis tribute artists,

“Greatest Horn Band Hits of All Time” played by the Late Night Brass at The Pier in St. Pete. 1 to 4 p.m. Call (812) 985-0639.

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

Dunedin Golf Carts on the Street Effective July 1, golf carts will be allowed in the City of Dunedin on many roadways as an alternative mode of transportation. Owners must register with the City’s Permitting Dept., 737 Louden Ave. Annual registration fee is $10. Decal and Operator’s Manual issued at registration. Details at (727) 298-3210.

Upper Pinellas Singles This Month

f you’re single and looking for activities this month, join the Upper Pinellas Singles group at DuBois Hall, Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 750 San Salvadore Dr., Dunedin. Dinner at 6, program at 6:30 p.m.

6:30 p.m. Steve Ketaltis on guitar, singing ‘50s and ‘60s hits.

12 19 26

Crime Watch Speaker.

Betty Dodge’s Line Dancing Group. George Trimitsis, Artist and Scientist.

Friday night is restaurant night; they also have social events and picnics. For details, call: (727) 725-5453 or (727) 424-3961.

Congratulations! to Heather LaMae Armstrong from Zephyrhills

Who won two tickets to Cirque Du Soleil’s “Allegria”, which played June 22 – 26 at the St. Pete Times Forum. Look for more contest drawings in upcoming editions of Senior Connection magazine!

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Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 5

The Vibrant Chihuly Collection at One Year

BY JANICE DOYLE

year ago the Chihuly Collection of glasswork “bookended” Beach Street in St. Petersburg as an arts destination. The new Dali Museum is at the south end of Beach Street, the Chihuly at the north end and the Museum of Fine Arts in the middle. With several smaller galleries scattered along the street, it’s a cultural haven. The Chihuly took several years and a couple of false starts to become the fascinating museum visitors find today. Inside the building designed for this particular collection of Dale Chihuly’s works, visitors find his signature style. Even if you’ve seen his work elsewhere, a visit through the museum is a vivid and flamboyant arts experience. Wayne Atherholt, Director of Marketing and Communications, says the museum “lets you get up close and personal with the glass. Here you walk around the actual pieces. It’s a

presents...

& Collette Vacations

completely different Morean experience than seeing Arts Center one of his chandeliers The Chihuly at the Atlantis in Collection is owned Nassau, for example. by the Morean Here you can see Arts Center. With the workmanship.” roots dating back Docents like Tom to 1917, the Center Kaltenbaugh explain focuses on art and the techniques Chihuly arts education. On uses for his works. We Central Avenue is learned that he was the their main building first glass artist to let where dozens of art gravity work to create classes are offered assymetrical works of every year. Next art and that some of to it, the Glass Dale Chihuly, “Mille Fiori,” the Macchias (oddly Studio & Hot Shop 2010. Photo by Terry Rishel. shaped, brightly offers classes in colored vessels) have an inner layer of glass blowing and demonstrations white glass which affects the colors. every day from 1 to 5 p.m. The One room holds the Float Boat, old Train Station on 22nd Street another the Mille Fiore, each South houses the Morean Arts containing hundreds of individual Center for Clay, the largest such glass treasures to admire. The stunarea in the state with outdoor ning Ruby Red Icicle Chandelier kilns, class areas and much more. is the museum’s centerpiece. Each venue features retail areas.

Canyon Country featuring Arizona & Utah Departing October 13 – 21, 2011

Highlights... Scottsdale • Oak Creek Canyon Kaibab National Forest Grand Canyon • Lake Powell Monument Valley Bryce Canyon National Park Zion National Park • Las Vegas 9 Days • 12 Meals: 7 Breakfasts • 5 Dinners

Per person rates: Double $2,549; Single $3,249; Triple $2,519 Included in Price: Round trip air from Tampa International Airport, air taxes and fees/surcharge of $50 (subject to increase until paid in full), hotel transfers Not included in price: Cancellation waiver and insurance of $165 per person

For more information contact Collette Vacations • (877) 872-4331

Booking number: 460821 Departure Date: October 13, 2011 Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 6

Tour: Canyon Country Group Name: Senior Connection

So, while the arts have been turned upside down with budget cuts in the last few years, St. Petersburg has actually become a destination connecting people to art at the local level. And the Chihuly is a huge part of that. For more details, visit MoreanArtsCenter.org or call (727) 822-7872. Notes about visiting: Chihuly parking means meters. Bring quarters. All Morean Arts Center locations including the Chihuly are linked by the city trolley system. A $19 ticket for all four locations is available. The lovely 400 Beach restaurant next door offers great indoor and outdoor dining.

uly 11: $11 Day—price of admission ticket for all four centers. (Regular price $19).

uly 16: One Year Anniversary Celebration Day at the Chihuly —Fire Dancers and Drummers procession in Straub Park at 8:30 p.m.

Give a Little. Get a Lot

BY JOY NICCUM

ean Pagnotta had just retired and felt she needed more to do when she read an article about the need for mentors for children. She was shocked to learn there were 60 or 70 children on a list waiting for mentors. Three years ago Jean was matched with Logan, now 13. Logan will tell you he really likes Jean’s cooking—especially her meatballs and Italian sausages. The two of them began doing things at Jean’s house like cooking and playing board games, brain-teasers and cards. She and Tom, her husband, began attending Logan’s baseball practices and games. Logan started playing clarinet in the school band, and Jean and Tom attended his band concerts. They took Logan to plays and concerts. Tom taught Logan to barbeque—especially Italian sausages.

STEFAN SANDERLING, MUSIC DIRECTOR

This summer Logan’s family moved out of state, and Jean and Tom were sad to say goodbye to Logan. They will keep in touch with him by e-mails, phone calls and letters. Jean said, “This relationship will continue. I’m so glad Logan has been in our lives.” They’re waiting to be matched with another child. If you’d like to make a difference in a child’s life by spending a few hours a week, please call Bev at (727) 479-1841. Adults Mentoring Children has children waiting. Become a mentor! Give a little. Get a lot.

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

Affordable Housing For Senior Citizens

Creekside Manor I & II

are federally subsidized apartments for persons 62 and above. Special access apartments are also available. Studio & 1 Bdrm. Apartments. Rent is based on income. Located in a quiet Clearwater neighborhood For appointment

Call (727) 441-8400

TDD: 727-447-3018 TOTAL INCOME LIMIT One person $20,800 u Two persons $23,800 YOUR MONTHLY RENT IS NO MORE THAN 30% OF YOUR ADJUSTED GROSS INCOME. 1318 Franklin Street u Clearwater, Fla. Office Hrs. Mon.–Fri. 8–12 & 1–4 Closed Saturday & Sunday

We invite you to another season of delightful morning concerts of symphonic favorites. Enjoy all 7 concerts in St. Petersburg or a 3-concert package in Clearwater. In addition to complimentary coffee and doughnuts prior to the concerts, attendees will enjoy lively commentary by the conductor and Pre-Concert Conversations in the hall one hour before curtain to learn more about the music and composers featured on the program.

7-Concert Series in St. Petersburg starting at $134

Sponsored by:

Thursdays at 11 am, PROGRESS ENERGY CENTER FOR THE ARTS MAHAFFEY THEATER

3-Concert Series in Clearwater starting at $58 Wednesdays at 10 am, RUTH ECKERD HALL

For more information: call 727.892.3337 or visit www.FloridaOrchestra.org For group savings (10 or more) : 727.362.5443 TFO-Senior Connection-June.indd 1

Senior Connection • July 201111:47:49 • page 4/11/2011 AM 7

Presidential Libraries Debut New Passport Program

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

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 $1015/mo.

Accepting Medicaid Diversion Assisted Living Facility Lic. # AL11209

Help May Be Available For Paying Your Medicare Expenses

Help may be available for paying your healthcare costs including: prescription drug and medical copayments if: you’re a Florida resident and your gross monthly income is $922.50 or less (single) or $1,224.17 or less (married)* Humana Medicare Advantage Plans can help you cover your dental, hearing and vision costs if: - you’re turning 65 - you have recently moved - you’re a retiree who has lost your health coverage Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 8

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

Power of Now Hidden Treasures! Class Series B J oin a series of eight classes on the book The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle. Classes will be presented beginning July 9 at 10:30 a.m. by Rev. Ted Leitho at the Gulfport Library, 5501 28th Ave. S., Gulfport. Register for the free classes by calling (727) 893-1074.

ayview Gardens will host “Hidden Treasures in Your Home,” presented by Dale Smrekar, on August 9 at 11 a.m. A light lunch will be served and visitors can bring one item for a free appraisal. Tours of the community will be provided. RSVP by August 1 at (727) 669-5261. Bayview Gardens is located at 2855 Gulf to Bay Blvd., Clearwater.

You’ll have the confidence of knowing it’s all backed by a company that has served in the healthcare community for 50 years. We’re here with a helping hand. Call today: ST. PETERSBURG Red Lobster 6151 34th St. North July 13th 1:30 pm

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

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

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

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

Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 9

Veterans Corner

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tudies show that sunshine can both lift your mood and enhance your energy levels. But as we all know, the sun does not always shine. Now, however, there’s a solution to the problem– The Balanced Spectrum® floor lamp will change not only the way you see, but also the way you feel about your living and work spaces. It brings the benefits of natural daylight indoors, simulating the full spectrum of daylight. The Balanced Spectrum’s 27-watt compact bulb is brighter than a 100-watt ordinary light bulb. With the lamp’s sharp visibility, you will see with more clarity and enjoyment in close tasks such as reading, writing, sewing, and needlepoint. It is especially helpful for aging eyes.

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

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

Veteran Clinton Hale on a sit-ski.

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

Seniors Look Forward To Games In Kissimmee “W

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

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

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

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

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Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 11

Marilyn Monroe Tells Her Story BY TRACIE SCHMIDT

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

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

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

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God Bless You! BY JIM MCDEVITT

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

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

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

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The Cupid in Your Computer

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Part Four

r. Joy Browne, author of Dating For Dummies®, 3rd Edition, has eleven “Dos and Don’ts for Finding a Date at a DotCom.” Here are two: 1. Meet publicly and make sure someone knows where you are. Remember that the person you meet online is a stranger! If you wouldn’t get into a car with a stranger, don’t do any of these things with someone you meet online. “Meet in a public place and make sure that somebody you know and trust is aware of your whereabouts,” Browne asserts. “This is indeed still real life.”

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intimacy with a resulting loss of inhibitions. When you’re dealing with strangers, as you are in online dating, inhibitions serve as a valuable and healthy function. So if you lose your inhibitions without knowing to whom you’re making yourself vulnerable, you put yourself in a careless and dangerous situation. “I know that receiving those first e-mails from an online dating prospect is a thrill,” says Browne. “But a week or two of fantasy fun is sufficient, and then it’s time to bite the bullet and actually meet face to face, with a brief pit stop at phone calls so you can at least be assured of gender and voice recognition. If you spend any more time in fantasyland, you’re creating an artificial sense of intimacy, which is very difficult to overcome. Remember that you want dating, not danger, as the eventual outcome.”

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Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 15

Retirement CPR: Creating and Protecting Retirement BY JON LYNN

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

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

Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 16

Fixed interest offers the least amount of risk. However, money market

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PROSPECT TOWERS of Clearwater, Inc.

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Intersection of Chestnut St. and S. Myrtle Ave.

727-447-5701 Efficiency $422 - $496 One Bedroom $539 - $634

Utilities included in the rent. Cable is an additional $18/mo.

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

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

Prospect Towers is a 17 story apartment community for 208 residences.

Non-Profit housing for the elderly. • Close to beaches • Grocery store within walking distance • On the busline • Close to medical facilities Visit: http://prospect.presidioproperty.com • 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 • July 2011 • page 17

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Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 18

‘Til Death Do You Part…

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

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

The Life List: Ten Items All Caregivers Must Have Discover The Springs

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

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

Retirement Living 2. Updated list of all medications. Keep a list of all medications and their dosage information with you at all times. Take a current copy with you to every doctor’s appointment and keep a copy in every possible place where you may need it at a moment’s notice (or in case you leave the house without it by mistake) like your purse, coat pockets, and vehicles. Tack a copy by the phone and the patient’s bed for easy access. 3. Good pill cutter. Depending on the prescription, you may have to cut pills in halves or quarters to get the right dosage.

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

always call for medical assistance before the problem becomes severe.

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

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

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

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

South Pasadena’s 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, Catresa Bowie, 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 Catresa Bowie at (727) 599-1390.

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

(727) 828-3500

Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 19

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

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

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

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

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

Taking Care at Barrington Terrace

uring July, join us at Barrington Terrace Assisted Living and Memory Care Residence, located at 333 16th Ave. SE in Largo.

CarePartner Night, Education and support for caregivers, 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Barbara Correll with Mederi CareTenders speaking on “Managing Diabetes through Nutrition and Weight Management.”

Skin Cancer Alert 15

ccording to the American Cancer Society, this year alone, more than 68,100 new cases of melanoma are expected nationally. Precautions include avoiding sun exposure during midday hours, using sunscreen and avoiding tanning beds. Early detection of melanoma can be found by following a simple ABCD assessment:

Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 20

Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other half.

Border irregularity: The edges of a mole are ragged, notched or blurred. Color: The pigmentation of a mole is not uniform, with variable colors of tan, brown or black. Diameter: The mole is greater than six millimeters (the size of a pencil eraser).

Tropical Party with live island music, drinks and delights. 3 p.m.

Learn about post hospital recovery stays, assisted living services and funding sources. Light luncheon provided, 1 p.m.

Caregiver support group meeting, 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.

RSVP required for these events; call (727) 588-0020 or e-mail dmcgauley@arborcompany.com.

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

Men, Get To a Doctor! T imothy Vavra, D.O., of Loyola University Health recommends the following screenings for all men: • High blood pressure.

• Diabetes test every year with a fasting blood test.

• Cholesterol screening once every five years if normal, or more often if levels are borderline. • Colorectal cancer every 10 years by colonoscopy, then a yearly fecal occult blood test (which can find blood in the stool) or, every five years, a fecal blood test combined with a sigmoidoscopy.

• Prostate cancer test for men over 50 who have a life expectancy of at least 10 years.

Be sure to talk to your doctor about these tests.

Diet, Exercise and Weight Loss

ccording to an April article in Obesity magazine, women who both improved their diet and exercised regularly shed an average of nearly 11 percent of their starting weight. This degree of weight loss may not bring an obese individual to a normal weight, but it can bring health benefits (reduced risk of diabetes, heart disease and cancer). Significant notes:

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

• Exercise not only promotes weight loss and prevents weight gain over time, it also helps with balance, strength and fitness. • The women who lost the most weight and body fat kept a food journal, writing down everything they ate and drank (except water and no-calorie drinks.

• The study involved overweight-to-obese, sedentary, postmenopausal women ages 50 to 75—a group with high rates of overweight and obesity. • The greatest weight loss was achieved by women who both changed their diet and exercised

• Other successful weight loss strategies included preparing meals at home and eating out less often at restaurants—two things that give you the most control over calories. The National Cancer Institute funded the research.

Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s I f someone you love is showing several of these signs, talk to your doctor.

Healthy Brain

1. Memory loss 2. Difficulty performing familiar tasks 3. Problems with language 4. Disorientation of time and place 5. Poor or decreased judgment

6. Problems with abstract thinking 7. Misplacing things 8. Changes in mood or behavior 9. Changes in personality 10. Loss of initiative (Reprinted with permission of the Alzheimer’s Association) Advanced Alzheimer’s

The Truth About Cosmetic Surgery C

osmetic surgeons say their typical patients are energetic, active people who are less interested in hiding their age than they are in looking as youthful as they feel. These patients find that an aging face erodes self-confidence. A typical question such a patient should ask herself

is, “Why should I go on looking like this when every other part of me feels young?” A good cosmetic surgeon will try to make each patient’s face retain its own individuality after surgery and strive to make changes that are almost imperceptible to others. From “Defying Age” by Dr. Miriam Stoppard.

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Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 21

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

Whether you travel or not… this watch is a necessity.

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

Easy to Read, Even easier to hear.

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

Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 22

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Ear Problem Explained Q

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

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

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Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 23

Stay Close to Home for Fun This Summer family and enjoy getting another room at a 50 percent discount. Little ones can enjoy the Resort’s Loggerhead Kids Club and gameroom. (Promo code BOOMERS.) Through Sept. 30, there’s a Road Trip package which includes a $25 gas card and other discounts for just $149 per night. Promo code: ROAD. Enjoy this relaxing, service-friendly resort on A1A in Jupiter, Fl—just 12 miles from downtown West Palm Beach. Online or at (800) 228-8810.

DeLeon Springs (L) and the Old Spanish Sugar Mill (R).

Flip For Fun s there a Fountain of Youth? Find the spot where Ponce de Leon said he found the famed fountain an hour north of Orlando. Start the day by making your own pancakes at the The Old Spanish Sugar Mill inside DeLeon Springs State Park Recreation Area. Right beside the headwaters of the Fountain of Youth, owners Peter and Marjorie Schwarze have been letting people cook their own breakfasts since 1961. You pour the batter, ﬂip the cakes and choose your toppings—truly you can have it your way! Order lots of tasty sides, too.

Travel Since there’s often a long wait to get in, you can put your name on the list and take The Fountain of Youth Eco/ History Tour boat tour next door. Narrated boat tours run from DeLeon Springs to Lake Woodruff in the Woodruff Federal Wildlife Refuge and operate 10 and 11 a.m. trips and 12 and 1 p.m. trips (minimum of 8 passengers must go). This is a great way to see the delicately preserved eco-system of the St. John’s River. Also available here are kayaks, canoes and paddleboats to rent. Call (386) 837-5537 for the Eco-tour. Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 24

Orlando – After Hours! Casual Elegance So you say you’ve “done Orlando”, Jupiter Beach eh? Experienced Disney, outlet Resort & Spa is ofmalls and the ubiquitous souvenir fering wonderful specials shops? But hey, we’re not kids this summer in Jupiter, Florida. anymore—so what’s there to Ah, the beach setting. For our daily do after the sun goes down? walk, we enjoyed stepping from As it turns out, the Orlando area the boardwalk and patio area is loaded with after-hours right to a tranquil stretch fun. For starters, there’s Jupiter Beach of beach. And one night the Sleuth’s Mystery Resort and Spa. we stretched out in one Dinner Theater on of the hammocks and International Drive listened to the waves in Orlando. At hitting the beach Sleuth’s, you step as we watched a into a world of full moon rise comedy where over the ocean. you become Dinner at the detective as Sinclair’s was a you try to solve seafood lover’s the night’s treat. (A don’tmiss menu item is the lobster crabcake appetizer at dinner.) Choose white tablecloth service or patio casual three meals a day. Resort amenities include the luxurious spa, where you can enjoy a massage and then their hot liquid chocolate (wow!). There’s a billiards room, an outdoor ﬁrepit and lounge area, ﬁtness room, lighted tennis courts and a business center for checking e-mails. The Beach Boomers package, starting at just $169 per night, includes daily gourmet breakfast for two, two-for-one bike rentals and discounts at Sinclair’s. Take the

murder mystery. In addition to enjoying a delicious dinner, you’ll spend about two hours helping the other guests solve the nights’ dastardly crime. Use the clues that are all around you—and your intuition—and you just might receive a nice prize when you show off your winning guess! Up for something a little more unique? Head to the Treasure Tavern, Orlando’s hottest nighttime show and dining experience. Treasure Tavern is an unrivaled one-of-akind dining experience combining Cirque, burlesque, comedy magic, live music and delicious food. But be careful—there’s no telling when Madame Gretta just might pull you up on stage and poke a little fun at you for the amusement of all the guests! So the next time you head out to the Orlando area, don’t forget to enjoy the area’s most unique nightlife! Sleuths Mystery Dinner Theater is located at 8267 International Drive; call 1-800-393-1985 for info. Treasure Tavern is at 6400 Carrier Drive, just of I-Drive. Call 1-877-318-2469 for tickets and reservations.

Travels reported by Dave Kelly and Janice Doyle.

Sleuths (Above) and Treasure Tavern (Below).

What is Normal and What is Not? You’re invited to a Tropical Party at...

eepa Snow, a nationally recognized educator on issues related to dementia care, has helped The Arbor Company deepen its commitment to enhancing the quality of life for residents throughout their assisted living and memory care communities. She recently gave a presentation at Barrington Terrace of Largo, an Arbor Community where she also provides in-depth training for all Arbor employees through a Dementia Care specialist training program. Here are a few highlights: Normal Aging Changes: • Slower to think and do. • Know the person but not the name. • Reminded of the past. • For you, it’s harder than before… • Prompts help! (reminders) • You can learn new things—it just takes longer! Not Normal Aging Changes: • Can’t think or do the same. • Can’t place the person. • Confused about past versus now.

• For you, it’s totally different. • Reminders don’t help! • You can’t hold onto new stuff.

Six Warning Signs: 1. Memory loss for recent or new information—repeats self frequently. 2. Difficulty doing familiar, but difficult tasks—i.e., managing money. 3. Getting confused about time/place. 4. Difficulty problem solving or reasoning. 5. Misplacing things. 6. Changes in mood or behavior.

Check It Out; It Might NOT be Dementia • Worsening of another medical condition • Medication side-effect • Unrecognized hearing or vision loss • Depression • Delirium from an acute illness • Untreated pain—emotional or physical • Other things… So get it checked out—carefully and thoroughly!

For more information or to join a caregiver support group, call Diane at Barrington Terrace: (727) 588-0020 or visit bt-largo.com.

Word Search

July 15 at 3 p.m • Enjoy Music, Drinks and Delights – Island Style • Prize for the Best Tropical Outfit • Information and Tours of the community will be provided • Live Entertainment and Lots of Fun! Summer Move-In Special!

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

Answers From

June 2011

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Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 25

Fido in Fiji and Hairballs in the Hamptons Consider your pet’s health. Has your pet had a recent veterinary check-up? Does your pet’s age or physical condition make it an ideal candidate for travel? If Fido’s flying, plan ahead! Buses, trains and cruise ships do not typically allow pets. Most airlines allow pets to travel in the cabin or as cargo. The ASPCA recommends that pet owners not fly their animals unless the pets are small enough to fit under the passenger seats. If you’ve already committed to transporting your pet on a commercial airline, the ASPCA offers a list of helpful tips for safe air travel with your pet.

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47 )

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

47 )

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Georgia Peach Commission Gears Up for A Plentiful Peach Season

Check Us Out Online! Senior Connection is now on

ummer is here and so are delicious Georgia peaches. Each year, Georgia produces more than 2.6 million cartons—or 63 million pounds—of peaches between mid-May and midAugust, and expectations are that the 2011 crop will meet or exceed that level. Try these very cool recipes.

Recipe Peachy Chicken Salad

1/3 cup mayonnaise 2 tbsp. milk Salt/pepper to taste 1 tsp. chopped fresh tarragon 2 � cups cubed cooked chicken 1 cup seedless red grapes, halved 1 cup frozen tiny peas, thawed 2 large peaches, peeled and chopped 1 cup pecan halves, toasted

and

Stir mayonnaise, milk and seasonings until smooth. Add chicken and toss to coat. Stir in other ingredients. Serve over lettuce.

Georgia Caprese Salad with Lime Vinaigrette Dressing:

Juice and zest of 1 lime 1 tbsp. champagne or white wine vinegar 1 tbsp. water 1 tbsp. honey 1/2 tsp. salt 1/4 cup olive oil 2 tbsp. chopped fresh mint

Eating Healthy at Pizza Hut A

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

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

Salad: Combine 2 (4-oz.) balls of fresh, water-packed mozzarella, 4 ripe peaches, unpeeled, each cut into 8 wedges, and 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves. Cut cheese into 1-inch pieces and gently toss with peaches and basil leaves. Prepare dressing: Combine lime juice, zest, vinegar, water, honey and salt. Slowly whisk in olive oil and set aside. Whisk mint into dressing and toss about 2 tablespoons (or more to taste) with salad. Season salad with freshly cracked pepper and serve.

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Call: 727-785-7947 or 727- 455-1237 e-mail: Russell.Elvis@yahoo.com website: www.russellelvis.com Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 27

New, Complete Disney Guide I f visitors are coming, you’ll want to hand them the The Complete Walt Disney World 2011 before they head to Orlando. This thorough guidebook rates and reviews 700 attractions, restaurants, shops and hotels and offers hundreds of tips. It’s chock full of detail about how to see and do everything having to do with Disney. New in this year’s book:

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An example of how complete the guide is—on page 163 there’s an itinerary (as there is for each park) for spending a day in Animal Kingdom so your group can enjoy a day at the right speed to experience the whole park. Included are times to send someone from the group to get the Fastpasses for a later ride. Good stuff!

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ear Mark: A replay of the old Steve McQueen, Eddie Robinson movie “The Cincinnati Kid” was shown on TV. I assume you have seen it. Of course Texas Hold ’em has pretty much supplanted stud poker as the gambling game of choice, has it not? Is that because hope springs eternal as the common cards are turned, or what? Which is more intellectually stimulating? —Lawrence E.

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Hope Springs Eternal

Near the end of “The Cincinnati Kid,” Lancey (Edward G. Robinson), called the Cincinnati Kid (Steve McQueen) $3500 and then raised him $5000 on a hand most rank amateurs of the game wouldn’t make: trying to draw to an inside straight flush. Folding is what most skilled players would have done. On the other hand, we’ve all had bad beats like the Kid, who lost to Lancey while sitting pretty with a full house of aces and 10s. “It gets down to what it’s all about. Making the wrong move at the right time,” so said Lancey. As for poker, its earliest reference is in 1834 among the writings of Jonathan H. Green. Green mentions the rules to what he called the “cheating game,” then being played on Mississippi riverboats. Green, who couldn’t find reference to it in Hoyle, decided to name the game Poker. The game Green described was played with 20 cards and used only aces, kings, queens, jacks and tens. Up to four people could play; each was dealt five cards. The nowstandard 52-card deck ultimately replaced the 20-card deck, and during the Civil War modifications such as open cards (stud poker), the straight and the draw were established. It wasn’t until 1967 that Texas Hold ‘em was introduced in Las Vegas by the likes of gambling legends Doyle Brunson and Amarillo Slim.

It wasn’t many years thereafter for Hold ‘em to eventually replace seven-card stud as the most popular poker game in U.S. casinos. Texas Hold ’em’s popularity at present is because of the granddaddy of all tournaments, the World Series of Poker which is based on Texas Hold ’em, the game’s exposure to film, television and literature, internet advertising and play, and the Cinderella story of Chris Moneymaker, who had never played in a “live” tournament before winning the main event in the 34th annual World Series of Poker Championship in 2003. My guess is that players in general would lean towards Hold ‘em as more “intellectually stimulating” because with draw poker, you wager only twice, but with Hold ‘em, you are betting four times, so tactical betting comes into play more. As for “hope springs eternal”: for some it comes from the community cards on the board, for others from the fact that Moneymaker—a rookie of just three years playing experience— qualified at an online tournament in which he parlayed an entrance fee of only $40 to a win of 2.7 million. Calculate all you want the risk/ reward ratio that reflects the Moneymaker formula of $40 to win 2.7 million through the online route, or spin in your mind, “if he can do it, so can I,” but Moneymaker got decent cards throughout, got away with a whole lot of bluffing, had loads of luck, and like Lancey, made the wrong moves at the right time. Dear Mark: Do any slot makers still make the old mechanical slot machines? —Julie R.

You may stumble upon a one-armed bandit from days of old in a downtown joint in Reno or Las Vegas, but as to a company manufacturing them, the answer is no. They became obsolete, Julie, for a whole host of reasons; but mainly, the machines from yesteryear were much easier to cheat on than today’s machines. (SENIOR WIRE)

Seniors Getting Together WOMEN SEEKING MEN

together. Former college May Queen and instructor, faithful, loving, 5’5”, 126 lbs. 1038 SEEKING CHRISTIAN GENTLEWCWW lonely for you. Sun City Center. MAN Former airline stewardess & model, 4029 MATURE WHITE FEMALE Fixed 5’4”, 104 lbs., widow, slender, white with income, seeks friendship, pen pals, NS/ Ph.D. in healthcare. Fulbright scholar, ND/NDrg, no criminal background. Be eats healthy and exercises. Likes sports 62+, male with morals and composure. and animals. Loves the Lord. Fort Myers. 4031 QUIET FEMALE, TAMPA FL I 4017 SENIOR LADY—YOUNGER like anything to do with water; also ACTIVE LIFESTYLE likes to wind like movies, plays, concerts, travel and down and watch old movies on tv, dancing. am 63 yrs. old. Would love to do crosswords. Has an eye open meet a man close by, don’t mind driving, for “The Him.” Age not an issue. closer would be more fun. I have a 3 yr. 4023 SEEKING CUTE 59 –65YO HONold female cat, which is great. Tampa. EST, ONE-WOMAN MAN. IQ, “Patriotic,” 4032 FUNTELLECTUAL, YOUTHFUL, conservative with SOH. Love travel, have MATURE 59, P, NS, HWP seeks creative, RV? Love ford Mustangs (rear-drive), academic genius gentleman for beaches, SM. Dogs? NS/SD/NDrg. I’m spiritual rapport that rocks, including 5’5”, HWP w/pretty blond hair. Let’s fun in the sun, movies, NPR, classical/ dance—make bucket list! Tampa Bay. pops concerts, good food for thought 4025 ISO W CHRISTIAN MALE 75 and beyond! Hillsborough County. or over, NS/ND, NDrg for LTR, TLC, share my home in Largo. SOH love MEN SEEKING WOMEN to share my love, slim, small, lonely, need a companion. Must have car. 4015 WANTED MATE FOR LIFE ISO slim 4027 SEEKING LONELY CHRISTIAN petite lady 60 – 70 YO. I am 73, still workGENLEMAN in 80s who enjoys travel, ing, NS, SOH, SD,. Like casinos, movies, dinners out, walking, Bible reading etc. Have 2/2/1 condo . Palm Harbor.

4018 SEEKING NATURAL HIRSUTE FEMALE Whether you’re a Frida Kahlo look-alike or an unrepentant hippie chick, as a pleasant hirsute lady, you’re my type of woman. I’m an attractive, pleasant, very youthful senior man. Phone number please. Thank you! Tampa. 4022 SEEKING SPECIAL LADY White female, late 60s or 70s, healthy, romantic, NS- NDrg, LTR., going for walks, movies, going out to eat, stay home watching TV. Tampa/Brandon. 4024 LOVES ASIAN GALS SWM, 65’, 5’6”, 175, NS, ND, SD. ISO AF for LTR/marriage. Be youthful, active, loyal, patient, romantic, cute, fun. 4026 I AM A MALE, TALL, DARK seeking a white (not tan) petite female, around 50 – 64 yrs. old, interested in meditation and yoga. LTR, St. Petersburg. 4028 PINELLAS COUNTY MAN SEEKING WOMAN Very adventurous man, 54, is seeking a woman who is a real swinger, 54 plus. I want a woman who is adventurous, loves the good things in life and enjoys new things that are exciting and different. Lets have a ball! Largo.

RUN YOUR AD FOR ONLY $6 A MONTH

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SENIORS GETTING TOGETHER Personal Ad Placement

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

Only $6 to place an ad!

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

Ad Copy • Please Print Neatly • 30 Word Limit Title (First 4 Words):

City (No Charge):

If more room is needed, please use separate sheet. Mail this form along with $6 for each ad per month (add $4 for each additional edition/market in the same month). We cannot accept your ad without it. This information is conﬁdential.

Name: Address: City: Phone:

State:

Zip:

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

or late life texters, here are some texting codes you might need: ATD: at the doctor. BTW: bring the wheelchair. BYOT: bring your own teeth. FWIW: forgot where I was. IMHO: is my hearing aid on? LMDO: laughing my dentures out. ROFLACGU: rolling on floor laughing and can’t get up. TTYL: talk to you louder! We have to laugh, don’t we!

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 Complete Automotive Care ..........352-799-0298 CLEARWATER M & M Ultrasports ........................727-412-8020 Stouts Auto Service .....................727-216-6622 DADE CITY Reliance Auto Center ..................352-567-5281 DUNEDIN Jeff Rhodes Isuzu Powersports ..727-216-2886 HOLIDAY NAPA Auto Parts .........................727-934-4651 HUDSON White’s Quality Trans...................727-862-1968 County Line Collision ..................727-861-7009

4030 I AM A MALE, A COUNCELLOR, a Hindu, lives on water, seeking a slim, petite white lady around 50 to 70 yrs. young. LTR. St. Petersburg. TO RESPOND TO AN AD

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

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

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.

LUTZ Dale’s Auto Service .....................813-264-0007

SEFFNER Schembries Auto Serv ................813-685-5654

OLDSMAR Murray Motive ..............................813- 854-5115

SUN CITY Killingsworth Automotive .............813-634-4758 Sun City Automotive ....................813-634-4758

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 Yacht Power Products ................727-822-2628 Rick Stroud Auto ........................727-549-1911 Modded Motorsports ..................727-432-0270

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........................813-6719097 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 • July 2011 • page 31

Medications 101:

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

Questions—True or False:

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

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

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

Answers:

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

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

6. True. Grapefruit juice can increase the levels of some medicines in your blood. Eating a calcium-rich dairy product can stop antibiotics from working. These are just two examples. Check with your physician or pharmacist for more insight. Always ask your doctor what each prescribed drug is, why you are taking it, when you should take it and what side effects to watch for. Supervising medication is one of the many jobs a home health care aide can perform. For more information, visit www.interimhealthcare.com. As seniors age, they may forget to take the medications that are prescribed to them and not report side effects to doctors. (NAPSA) Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 32

July 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. The first correct answers selected from the drawing on July 21 will win. Good luck! Send your answers along with your name, address and telephone number to: SENIOR CONNECTION OR MATURE LIFESTYLES 1602 S. PARSONS AVE., SEFFNER, FL 33584 Mystery WIN! WIN! WIN! GREAT PRIZES! Prize!

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ear readers, Crossword Puzzle Clues 62 and 63 Across, and clues 56 and 57 Down were accidentally dropped from last month’s crossword puzzles. The clues were: 62 Across: Prominent; 63 Across: Make corrections City: Zip: in; 56 Down:State: Sense of self esteem; 57 Down: Ridicule. Answers are published in this edition. My sincerest Home Phone: Work Phone: apologies go out to everyone who looks forward to our E-mail: puzzles each month. Everyone who sent in a puzzle last I/We have included SPCA in my/our estate plan.into our prize drawing. monththe was automatically entered Sincerely, —Tracie Schmidt, Production Assistant Send Me Information! Clip and mail this coupon Name: Address:

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Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 34

Perturbed by Passwords BY RICHARD SHERMAN

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

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

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

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

Clearwater Marine Aquarium The Turtle Trail Announces New Expansion

learwater Marine Aquarium strives to educate and inspire the world’s population to maintain and preserve our waters and marine life for future generations. Their vision is to build a world-class facility that enables us to care for thousands of marine animals and provide an environmental education to millions. CMA is embarking upon a $12 million campaign to expand their current facility rapidly, before the release of Dolphin Tale. The growth will provide CMA the opportunity to host thousands of visitors—each giving them the chance to educate and further their mission. Features include: • Doubling the sea turtle rehabilitation capacity. • New 1.4 million gallon Dolphin Pool Complex with stadium seating.

• Enhanced surgical facilities. • Educational exhibits and signage. • Expanded viewing areas and lobby. • Education enhancements with additional classroom space. • Multi-level parking garage and lot The public can become involved in many ways, including through the newest opportunity, Winter’s Path. Personalized paver stones, which will surround the new facility, are currently available for purchase for as little as $100 each. This striking design element will also allow the public a permanent way to show their support of CMA’s mission of Rescue, Rehabilitation and Release of marine animals. Clearwater Marine Aquarium is located at 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater. For more information, call (727) 441-1790 or visit seewinter.com.

himsically hand-painted sea turtles lead the trail to Gulf Beaches Historical Museum’s latest exhibit which educates visitors on the fragility of the turtle’s nesting season. Learn about the various types of sea turtles and how you can help protect this natural treasure. Also learn about the roots of Passa-Grille, an exhibit that chronicles the 100 years after incorporation. Gulf Beaches Historical Museum is located at 115 10th Avenue, St Pete Beach. Open only Friday, Saturday and Sunday in summer. Always FREE admission. Call (727) 552-1610 for more information, or visit www.gulfbeachesmuseum.com.

$2 OFF for

seniors

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

Senior $2offAdmission

(55+)

Good for up to 6 people. Not valid with other offers. Expires December 31, 2011. Code XSCA

Clearwater Marine Aquarium 249 Windward Passage • Clearwater, FL 33767

(727) 441-1790

www.SeeWinter.com Senior Connection • July 2011 • page 35

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