Senior Connection - Suncoast May 2011 ediiton

VOLUME 22, NUMBER 5

SUNCOAST

MAY 2011

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This Month, Remember Mom’s Advice

BY JANICE DOYLE Dear Readers,

M

ay is always a busy month for magazines because so many special days Janice Doyle, have been plopped on Editor May’s calendar page over the years. We could focus on May Day, Mothers Day, Memorial Day and graduation. There’s even a No Socks Day in May as well as National Buttermilk Biscuit Day. As a special month, it’s also Older Americans Month and Jewish American Heritage Month.

We couldn’t focus on everything, but we have a great May issue for you to read!

To honor Mothers Day, I couldn’t resist once again sharing this little piece because I find it so meaningful myself.

Read it and let the memories flow!

The Stages of Motherhood

4 Years of Age: My Mommy can do anything.

8 Years of Age: My Mom knows a lot! A whole lot.

12 Years of Age: My Mother doesn’t really know quite everything.

14 Years of Age: Naturally, Mother doesn’t know that, either.

16 Years of Age: Mother? She’s hopelessly old-fashioned.

18 Years of Age: That old woman? She’s way out of date.

25 Years of Age: Well, she might know a little bit about it.

35 Years of Age: Before we decide, let’s get Mom’s opinion.

45 Years of Age: Wonder what Mom thinks about it?

65 Years of Age: Wish I could talk it over with Mom. And, just for fun, remember what our mothers said to us.

Of course, none of us were going to say these things to our own children— we were far too modern when our little ones came along!

• Always wear clean underwear; you never know when you’ll have an accident.

• Don’t make that face or it’ll solidify in that position.

• Be careful or you’ll put your eye out.

• What if everyone jumped into a well? Would you do it, too?

• You have enough filth behind those ears to grow potatoes!

• Close that door! Were you born in a barn?

• If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all.

• Don’t put that thing in your mouth; you don’t know where it’s been!

What’s inside We offer you a great selection of articles this month. Since May is Jewish American Heritage Month, we were honored when Tracie Schmidt of our staff was invited to interview Elie Wiesel last month. Read her article and learn how a teenaged Holocaust survivor went forward to influence the world. He’s an Older American we can honor in every way.

As you read the story about Wiesel, you will find nothing in his gentle wisdom that would tell you about a recent tragedy in his life. Wiesel is one of those who invested with Bernie Madoff—not just his personal money, but also over 15 million of the Wiesel Foundation for Humanity’s funds. Gone, and yet he never mentioned it in the interview.

There’s much diversity in this issue, from our ongoing love affair with jeans to the disconcerting facts about artificial sweeteners and fish oil.

You’ll want to sign up for a cruise aboard one of Royal Caribbean’s giant ships after you read the publisher’s article about her cruise on the Allure of the Seas. Be sure to take along the information you learn from our brand new column series “Deal Me In” for the tips you want about your gaming life.

For your feel-good pleasure, we’ll also let you in on some love stories as well as tell you how to eat right at KFC. Enjoy.

Older Americans: Connecting the Community

E

very May since 1963, people in towns and cities across the country have celebrated the enormous contributions of older Americans.

Older Americans Month is our chance to show appreciation and support for seniors as they continue to enrich and strengthen our communities.

This year’s theme—Older Americans: Connecting the Community—pays homage to the many ways in which older adults bring inspiration Senior Connection • May 2011 • page 2

and continuity to the fabric of communities. Their shared histories, diverse experiences and wealth of knowledge make our culture, economy and local character what they are today.

Older Americans are more active in community life than ever before, thanks in part to advances in health care, education, technology and financial stability over the last several decades that have greatly increased their vitality and standard of living.

We salute all of you for giving back and making a difference in your communities.

Contact your local Area Agency on Aging to find out about volunteer opportunities in your community.

In Pinellas and Pasco Counties, call (727) 570-9696. In Hillsborough and Manatee Counties, call (813) 7403888. In Lee and Sarasota Counties, call (239) 652-6900. For Lake and Marion Counties, call (352) 378-6649.

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

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 Frank Zaccaro: (813) 388-3200 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:

janice@srmagazine.com

News Connection U.S.A. Inc., is also the publisher of

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

Lake/Marion Counties: Lake Edition

888-670-0040

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 June 2011 issue is May 15, 2011.

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Senior Connection • May 2011 • page 3

Senior Connection • May 2011 • page 4

Morgan Exteriors To The Rescue

BY JANICE AND DAVID LALMOND

I

t was time to replace the back porch – a haven of rest where a porch swing hung from wood beams and comfortable seating made it a gathering place for friends. But, it didn’t take a practiced eye to see that leaks in the stained 30-year-old Fiberglass roofing had rotted the tops of the cedar beams.

Morgan Exteriors to the rescue! It’s a home remodeling company that services the Tampa Bay Area whose owner said, “We’re large enough to serve but small enough to listen. We pay attention to what we’re doing.”

Owner Kirk Morgan said, “We feel like we help people and if we help enough people they’ll help us. If we do a good job for you, you’ll tell 10 people. If we do a bad job, you’ll tell a hundred people.” Word of mouth references account for 35 to 40 percent of their work every month.

And now, we are among their very long list of satisfied customers telling other people about Morgan Exteriors, and the rustic wood screen porch fell away and was replaced by bright, clean white aluminum.

A company is only as good as the crew that works on your home.

“We set ourselves apart with our crews,” Morgan said. “They are our real success. They’re not going to bring a cooler of beer and drink on the job. They are my employees and I know them all.”

It’s a mutual feeling of respect.

Employees Teddy Penninger and Donald Peacoe told me that Morgan

Exteriors is the best company to work for because they don’t try to cut corners and if they need to go the extra mile for the customer, they do it.

The company gives a lifetime workmanship warranty on doors, windows, siding, soffits, doors.

“People aren’t used to that kind of service,” Morgan told us. That means that even five years later, at no cost to the customer, he’ll send someone out to replace a piece of siding that came off.

Morgan Exteriors does a lot of window replacement in the Tampa Bay area.

We’d had many calls from companies claiming new double-pane windows would cut our electric bills in half.

I simply didn’t believe it, so I asked owner Kirk Morgan about it. He said they tell customers replacement windows can save 20 to 30 percent on utilities. Now, that I can believe! The big factor with the new windows is that they eliminate “hot spots” that come with summer heat.

It’s a family business. Morgan’s wife works in marketing, his dad runs installations, one son works the area’s home shows and another son works marketing. Twenty-two employees keep it all humming for homeowners. Last year was a record year for Morgan Exteriors and they’re “on track to beat it this year.”

Meanwhile, at our house, the crew has “broom cleaned” up the area (as they did every day before leaving), a final survey has been done, the warranty work is completed, and it seems like a good time to christen the porch by hosting a pot luck dinner. Someone we invite is sure to need some exterior work done, and we know just who they can call!

Call Morgan Exteriors at (813) 9314663 or (727) 502-5300 or visit their booth at our Fun Fest on May 12 at the Seminole Recreation Center. Read customer comments on Angie’s List.

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Senior Connection • May 2011 • page 5

Enjoying High School Band—the Second Time Around

BY JANICE DOYLE

T

here’s excitement afoot at the venerable old Coliseum Tuesday nights in the spring. Aside from hearing a traditional band practice session for the Second Time Arounders, you might see groups of adults learning dance steps—steps that are far different from the classic ballroom dances typically associated with the Coliseum.

Some 400 people who have no trouble marching to a Sousa rhythm are practicing for what just might be the Ultimate Band Trip to the Calgary (Canada) Stampede in July.

The Rounders (as they are known) began in 1983 when Bill Findeison, then owner of the Bringe Music Store, and Herb Melleney, Executive Director of the St. Petersburg Festival of States celebration, wondered if former marching band members and auxiliary performers might “want to

perform just one more time.” An ad in the St. Petersburg Times invited former musicians and majorettes to attend just one rehearsal and then march in the upcoming Festival of States Parade. From the initial 75 people who came, history was made!

A little training and there they were, marching down the street playing “Stars and Stripes Forever.”

Now, about 500 people call themselves Rounders with auxiliary groups filling in performances with twirlers, flags, rifle lines, etc. With ages ranging from 18 to 84, the group has

enjoyed band trips to parades in places like Portland, San Antonio, Dublin, Ireland, and in New York for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Karen Mastenbrook, public relations coordinator for the group, says, “Many of the members are over 55 or retirees.

I see the older people around me enjoying the social aspect as well as continuing to learn. Many of our older members are also enrolled in Eckerd College New Horizons where they are learning new instruments. Sometimes they’ll take the new instrument they’re learning and march with it.”

She admits that it’s a big group and that even after 15 years as a Rounder, she’s still meeting people who have been there longer than she has. “It’s a fantastic social network of professional people and I have met so many wonderful people and many I call very good friends.”

In Calgary, about 300 Rounders will make five appearances including

being in the major parade as well as performing Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” as an exhibition band at two Showbands competition field performances. Mastenbrook says the dance is “looking so cool” in practices.

Eighty-year-old Ellis Rue has played the baritone horn with the Rounders. He says playing with the group “brings back memories of very pleasant experiences” as well as creates opportunities to make new friends and enjoy the social activities being in the band has provided.

“Just the privilege of playing under the wonderful conductor and founder Bill Findeison has made the experience a memorable part of my life for the past 24 years,” he says.

And for Rue and others with fond memories of high school or college band, that’s all it takes to enjoy it all—the second time around.

For photos and information about the Second Time Arounders, see their website: secondtimearounders.org.

Straz Center Rocks in May

JUNE 2

I

“BOOMER HEAVEN” “RAIN creates musical nirvana … makes the hair on the back of your neck stand up!

A thrilling bit of timewarping nostalgia …

Boomer Heaven!”

– Fort Worth Star Telegram ww.raintribute.com

Tickets: 813.229.STAR (7827) • STRAZCENTER.ORG Outside Tampa Bay: 800.955.1045 Group Services (12+ get a discount): 813.222.1018 Events, days, dates, times, performers and prices are subject to change without notice.

Senior Connection • May 2011 • page 6

f you want to relive those hippie counter-culture and sexual revolution days of the ‘60s, here’s your chance. Hair brought the songs that became anthems for the anti-Vietnam War’s peace movement and the beginnings of the genre called “rock musical.” It will be rocking the stage at the Straz Center from May “RAIN—A Tribute to the Beatles.”

24 to 29. Set in New York City, the play won the Best Beginning June 3, for anyone who has Musical Revival 2009 Tony Award. experienced the Baby Weight Blues, RAIN—A Tribute to the Beatles comes Motherhood the Musical. Hot returns to Tampa on June 2! ExperiFlash! From the successful producers of ence what Beatlemania was all Menopause The Musical. One reviewer about. From Ed Sullivan to Abbey called the show “the joyous journey Road—RAIN looks and sounds and loving look at the blessings and just like the Beatles. RAIN’s perils of being a mom at any age.”

Tampa engagement covers the Fab Cancellations at the Straz Center Four from the earliest beginnings include Pawn Stars: Gold & Silver through the psychedelic late ’60s Road Show (was scheduled for May and their long-haired hippie, 14) and Madagascar LIVE! (was hard-rocking rooftop days. scheduled for July 23 – 24).

Around Town W H AT ’ S H A P P E N I N G M AY 2 0 1 1

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very Friday Midday by the Bay—live music series in the Plaza (between the Mahaffey Theater and the Dali Museum).

Noon – 2 p.m. (727) 823-3767.

T

hrough 15 “Hedda Gabler” West Coast Players Theatre, 21905 U.S. 19 N. Seniors: $15.

Reservations at (727) 437-2363.

T

hrough 31 The Artwork of Richard Notkin; exhibition of teapots, tile-mural and more at the Florida Holocaust Museum. $14 admission. (727) 820-0100 or flholocaustmuseum.

4

– 7 “Asian Fire” Ikebana Exhibition of floral arrangements presented by Florida Craftsmen and St. Petersburg Ikebana Chapter 65.

Florida Craftsmen, 501 Central Ave., St Petersburg. Free. (727) 821-7391.

6

– 22 The Drowsy Chaperone, a spoof of the 1920s musical era, presented by Eight O’Clock Theatre at the Largo Cultural Center. $25 tickets. Call (727) 587-6793.

6

– 22 Everybody loves Opal, a comedy about “crazy optimism and dumb luck” by the St. Petersburg Little Theater, 4025 31st. Street S., St. Petersburg. $22 tickets. Call (727) 866-1973 or visit splt.org.

7

Night in the Islands with live Greek music, dancing and outdoor dining on the Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks. 6 to 11 p.m. Call (727) 936-1130.

14

Best-selling author Dennis Lehane discusses books and writing at the Largo Public Library. $25 advance tickets. Call (727) 586-7398.

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– 22 Trash & Treasures Sale at West Coast Players Theatre in Clearwater. 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Costumes, props, white elephant items. 21905 U.S. 19 N. (Left at the light at Best Buy on Drew St., and follow the service road for two blocks.) Call (727) 474-3386.

21

Socrates Café Philospher’s discussion at Palm Harbor Library. 1 to 2:45 p.m. Visit palmharborsocratescafe.blogspot.com.

21

Photography Hike at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. 8 to 10 a.m. Free. Register by May 20 at pinellascountyextension.org. Call (727) 453-6500 for information.

22

Rare Plant Sale for “Old Florida” charm. Sponsored by Rare Plant Network and Seminole Historical Society. Music, raffles, historical display. Parking at Seminole City Park. Sale across the street at 11500 74th Ave., Seminole. Call (727) 391-7808.

31

through July 3 Frankie and Johnny in the Clair de Lune, a romantic comedy by American Stage Theatre Company in the Raymond James Theatre. Tickets start at $29. Call the box office at (727) 823-7529 or visit americanstage.org

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12

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. May 10 for June event.)

Senior Fun Fest at Seminole Recreation Center.

Entertainment, vendors, games.

Hosted by Senior Connection. Call (813) 653-1988 for information. and 26 Bobby Tess and the Dixie Chaps play jazz at Bilmar Beach Resort, Treasure Island. 7 to 9:30 p.m. $7. Info at (727) 397-1875.

une 1 Coffee with a Curator at the Dali Museum (first Wednesdays).

10:15 a.m. Free. (727) 823-3767.

STEFAN SANDERLING, MUSIC DIRECTOR

COFFEE CONCERTS

Alastair’s Choice

Featuring Verdi’s Forza del Destino Overture, Gliere’s Russian Sailors Dance, and Piazzolla’s Tango No. 2, Alastair Willis conducts this morning Coffee Concert, with complimentary coffee and donuts served before the performance. Don’t miss the pre-concert conversation in the concert hall one hour before the performance.

Thu, May 19, 11 am Progress Energy Center for the Arts Mahaffey Theater

Sponsored by:

POPS Totally Awesome 80s

From the decade that brought us MTV, big hair, and Michael Jackson’s sequin glove, it’s a salute to some of the best-loved pop and rock artists of the 1980s with your orchestra playing music

by Madonna, Michael Jackson, Prince, Chicago, Cyndi Lauper, and more. Sarah Hicks conducts.

May 20 - 22

SERIES FINALE

MASTERWORKS Brahms’ Violin Concerto Acclaimed by The New York Times as “a brilliant violinist,” Augustin Hadelich performs Brahms’ Violin Concerto on a program overflowing with gorgeous music: Berlioz’ Béatrice et Bénédict Overture, Barber’s symphonic prayer Adagio for Strings and Stravinsky’s lyrical Pulcinella Suite.

Larry Rachleff conducts.

May 27 & 28

SEASON FINALE

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

Senior Connection • May 2011 • page 7 3/23/2011 12:48:31 PM

All New Senior Fun Fest in Seminole!

T

he Senior Fun Fest! is coming to the Seminole Recreation Center located at 9100 113 St. North, Seminole on May 12, 2011, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The event will feature “Senior Friendly” exhibitors with information on senior services, lifestyles, health and wellness, and more.

A Senior Friendly lunch will be available for only $3.50 along with free coffee and goodies throughout the day.

Genetic testing for macular degeneration will also be available.

Health Screenings Health screenings will be available including hearing, eye, spinal checks and bone density screenings.

JSA Medical Group will provide glucose and blood pressure checks along with important health information. The Parkinsons Research foundation and Macular Degeneration Association will provide free seminars throughout the day.

Games and Prizes Activities of the day include free Bingo games and the all-new Senior Friendly Sports Area. Try your sports skills to win prizes. Plus, over $1,000 in prizes will be given away.

Admission and parking are free.

For more info, call 1-888-670-0040 or go to www.SrMagazine.com. For directions, call (727) 391-8345.

Entertainment Enjoy live performances on stage throughout the day. Celebrate the “Best in Country Entertainment” with William “Duece” Hulett, and 60’s nd 70’s Crooner Eddy Dean, as well as Denise Looney, “The DJ with a Twist!” and dance exhibitions by the Fred Astaire Dance Studio.

Plus, Fritzy the “One Man Circus” will also be there!

See you there!

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Y0040_GHHH18LHHD File & Use 02092011 Senior Connection • May 2011 • page 8

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Bright Stars Finalists Shine

O

The 12 finalists on stage with emcees Holloway and Johnson.

n Wednesday, April 6, twelve talented seniors took the stage at Ruth Eckerd Hall. The performers were selected for the Senior Idol show after having been chosen as the top 55+ years young talent in their respective communities. Jen Holloway and Virginia Johnson emceed the show and were a huge hit with the audience and the performers. All performers sang or played audience favorites and they all supported each other as they watched the live feed back stage.

The proceeds of all the regional shows were donated back to the senior

community in each region, including The Good Life Games in Pinellas, The Senior Games in Hillsborough, Meals on Wheels PLUS in Manatee County, and CARES Adult Day Care in the Tri-Pasco area.

The show’s audience cast the winning ballots. For the first time in Sr. Idol history, we had a tie and each recipient received $500 cash and $500 to donate to their favorite local non-profit organization.

The winners were Troy Coman and Thomas “Tommy” Johnson, both of the Tri-Pasco area.

In our 25 years of hearing care, we’ve heard a lot of reasons why our patients’ lives were changed by wearing hearing aids. And now we’re sharing them with you, because we think that just like our past patients, once you find a hearing solution that is right for you, your life will only get better. To hear all of our stories, visit us at our stores, online, or on one of the many social outlets we take part in. See you soon!

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Join us on: Senior Connection • May 2011 • page 9

Elie Wiesel Connects Cultures, Generations Through His Work It was not easy to start thinking of Author and death as not being he theme for Older teacher, the norm—that it Americans Month this Elie Wiesel. was an individual year is “Connecting the tragedy. And then, Community,” and for writhow to adjust to er, philosopher and Holothe living? How to caust survivor Elie Wiesel, adjust to the other. the tradition of passing How to adjust to down wisdom from one love? Mostly it was generation to another and a total change.” encouraging communicaNot only was the tion between cultures and physical aspect religions has always been Photo by Cheryl Johnston of everyday life of great importance. a challenge, but the experience also Wiesel was born in Romania in 1928 caused him to deeply question his faith. and was only 14 when the German “Before the war, my faith was army swept through his village, forcing total,” he said. “I never thought all of the Jewish residents into the I could question God. Now I do.

Auschwitz, Buna and Buchenwald But I never divorced God. concentration camps. His loved “Before the war, I was so religious,” ones were separated, and of his five he continued. “I came from a Hasidic family members only himself and background and I wanted my faith to his two older sisters survived. be stronger and stronger. But what As a young man. Wiesel lived in did I know about suffering? Only Paris for a time after World War II and what I had read in the Bible and eventually became a journalist, writing to promote awareness of anti-Semitism, Talmud about previous centuries. oppression and indifference. He chroni- Jewish history is actually a history of cled his experiences in the concentration suffering. But in spite of the suffering,” he said, “faith must continue.” camps in the memoir Night—one of his most famous works—and over the Connecting the Community course of his life he has written several Of the ethical problems that the world books, plays, essays and memoirs. faces today, Wiesel sees indifference “I tried to be a witness, so I went and apathy as the greatest challenges. everywhere,” Wiesel said of his trips “I’ve spent years and years of my to countries such as Cambodia and life fighting indifference. It is because Bosnia, where he spoke out against violence and genocide. In 1986, he was so many people are indifferent to other persons’ tragedies, pain, that the awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts on behalf of oppressed peoples. problem becomes so acute it seems Wiesel became a citizen of the United insoluble,” he spoke. “Indifference has become a kind of religion.”

States in 1955 and has since devoted Wiesel cites the Holocaust as an his life to educating, writing and example; while it was one of the raising his family. He is currently the history’s darkest tragedies, most of professor of Judaic studies at Manhatthe world was unaware of it until after tan’s City College of New York and it had occurred. However, he stresses teaches classes at Florida International that similar horrors can be prevented Universities as a visiting scholar. with awareness and moral activism, and that hatred and indifference are not Rebuilding innate to mankind, but rather taught.

During one of his visits to Sarasota, “It’s not genetic. Ultimately, it’s a I had a chance to ask him what it choice,” he said. “It’s simply easier took to rebuild his life after his not to be involved. It’s easier not to experiences in the camps.

“It was not so easy to adjust,” he said, look at those who suffer. But who “not only to the living, but to the death. says that life should be easier?”

BY TRACIE SCHMIDT

T

Senior Connection • May 2011 • page 10

One solution he suggests is to open the lines of communication between peoples and communities, especially in places like schools where different cultures and religions meet in an atmosphere that promotes the exchange of ideas.

“I’m sure that where you have colleges, you have Muslims. Meet them,” he urged. “Every month, organize something with you and your friends.

Say, ‘Come, lets have coffee together.

For an hour, two hours—let’s talk.’

“People want to know each other better. They want to know the good in the other person.”

Dreams and Ambitions I asked him if the ambitions he had when he was younger had come to pass, and if there were still things he wanted to achieve.

“My dream was really to become a teacher,” he replied. “A head of a Hasidic academy in a small village.

Here I am; I’m a teacher, and I’m the head of at least my department, and I have a special chair in Paris and here. So I do what I wanted to be.”

In his classes, Wiesel focuses on philosophy and draws from a variety of sources, encouraging both his students and himself to ask questions.

“It can be just history, it can be Danté, or maybe the Bible. I love the Bible.

With it, I question not only why people behave the way they do, I even question, ‘Why did God create man?’ Did he need problems?” he laughed. “He must have known that the moment he created us, there would be problems!”

Wiesel is also a disciplined writer; he wakes up at five every morning and writes for at least four hours every weekday, always busy working on new books. As far as accomplishments go, he only has one regret.

“The only thing I did want…at one point, I oscillated between music and philosophy,” he remembered.

“I wanted to become a conductor, because in Paris when I went from one orphanage to another, I was a choir conductor. And I felt, ah—that’s my goal in life! And for a few months I was really hesitating: philosophy, or music? Then I asked myself, what

good can I do for the world if I become a conductor? So I chose philosophy.”

When asked about the high points in his life, he replied, “Oh, I got married and had a son, then grandchildren.

I was asked by my students, what does it mean to be a grandfather?

And I said, I fell in love again!”

On Aging As a prolific writer, speaker and traveler, Weisel is always on the move, even at 83. But he still feels an intimate connection to his peers.

“Not because of my age, but my religion, I have a tremendous affection for older people. When I was younger and my grandfather came to visit, it was the best day of the month,” he remembered. “It is not so in America.

Here, children can’t live with their parents—they send them away. Mostly to Florida,” he laughed. “But why send their parents away, when they can learn so much from them?”

He encourages seniors to write down their experiences—not only to keep their own memories alive, but so future generations can learn from them.

“My fear is not only that a person would forget, but that a generation would forget—that the world would forget,” he cautioned. “As a writer, I compare everything to books. For someone with Alzheimer’s, life is like a book out of which, every day, you tear a page. At the end, the patient is like a book without pages anymore— just a cover and the last page. What can we do to retain that memory? Without it, nothing exists. It needs a language.”

Throughout his life, Elie Wiesel has faced illness and death, loss of loved ones and separation from familiar surroundings—issues that many seniors also face. I asked him if he had any advice for others his age.

“If you are a religious person,” he stated, “the first prayer you say in the morning is, “Thank you, God, for my waking up!” He smiled, and continued, “As long as I am alive, I have a choice. As long as I am alive, I don’t believe in death. With my last breath, I believe that every one of us is immortal. We must do everything we can to help each other.”

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Senior Connection • May 2011 • page 12

Seniors Celebrate Love Both Early and Late in Life I t’s always fun to hear a love story, isn’t it?

Brookdale Senior Living owns and operates a number of senior living communities throughout the U.S. and they have collected some of its residents’ own classic love stories.

The newest (and oldest) wedded couple within the Brookdale family met at The Kenwood Lake View in Chicago during 2007. Tom Stinchcomb, 89, had spotted Joan Garrison, 91, and a friend of hers standing in line at the buffet. Stinchcomb introduced himself to the ladies and asked if they’d mind if he joined them at their table. From then on, Stinchcomb took advantage of every opportunity to spend time with Garrison.

Before they were married, the couple lived in the same building but ten floors apart. Stinchcomb, always a gentleman, would see Garrison to her apartment to ensure she arrived safely after events they attended.

From there, their love blossomed culminating in their recent wedding.

Carriage Club Charlotte resident Emily Bauermeister has found love and romance three times.

Bauermeister met her third husband, Herman, at an elder hostel in Tennessee and knew immediately that she was going to marry him.

For a time she ignored Mr. Bauermeister’s attempts to get to know her, but they eventually went to dinner together. Shortly after they met, he started talking about marriage. They married and spent 25 years together.

“I can tell you first-hand these two were a match made in heaven,” said Jaynie Segal, life enrichment director for Carriage Club Charlotte.

“They were always holding hands, laughing, enjoying this special time in their lives together, always finding something to talk about and always finding time to steal a kiss.”

William Speir, resident of Cypress Village in Florida, took the time to write his wife, Bobbie, of 58 years an emotional poem titled “Dear Bobbie, Do You Remember?” The poem highlights their history together and ends, “The glue of love is still bonding us together – Love is what I remember.

Do you remember?”

When Carol Mitchell moved into the Classic West Palm Beach, a Brookdale Senior Living independent and assisted living community in Florida, she wasn’t looking for love. However, last June, Jack Levy was sitting in the lobby when he first spotted Mitchell on a tour of the community. She moved in two weeks later, and he next saw her swimming as he sat by the pool reading. He did not take his eyes off her and soon waved to her, beckoning her to join him.

They found they had a lot in common: books, theater, museums and even their favorite New York City restaurants. That night, Levy cooked dinner for Mitchell and they began seeing each other every day. He proposed later that year, and they wed in November 2010.

At the Heritage Raleigh, residents Flo Moore and John DeGraff met in November 2006. They met by discovering that they were both Republicans in that election year. They began playing bridge together and taking walks every day, holding hands and enjoying their friendship. Their love has survived his throat cancer and other health problems. Recently, they were sitting outside, holding hands, and a woman crossed the parking lot to where they were sitting to say, “I wish I had what you have!”

Don’t we all?

Full narratives of each story are available at www.facebook.com/ brookdaleseniorliving.

Allure of the Seas—Full of Imagination and Innovation find your way around, it is easy to maneuver.

Interactive touch screen guides offer room finder information—buttons telling what is going on right now and how many people are eating in each restaurant on board.

jog a lap around the perimeter of the fitness deck, where each lap is almost half a mile.

BY KATHY AND BILL BECK

R

oyal Caribbean’s newest ship, the Allure of the Seas, is a huge ship, which became an understatement once we were aboard. The ship can sail with 6,000 passengers and over 2,000 crew members aboard.

We joined passengers all along the promenade for a look at the “Move It! Move It!” DreamWorks Animation parade including characters like Shrek, Po from Kung-Fu Panda and Madagascar’s penguins in full costume.

Travel Both the Allure of the Seas and her sister ship Oasis of the Seas are the results of years of research and development into making the cruise ship itself a destination to enjoy in the Caribbean. These ships are not about seeing an island or visiting quaint port towns; they are all about the ship and its amenities.

They do, however, stop at several ports of call where new, clean facilities have been specially built to accommodate the size of the ships and the numbers of passengers who debark.

State-of-the-art technology makes the ships quite manageable. Veteran cruiser Kathy Clor and her husband of Sun City Center recently sailed aboard the Allure of the Seas and commented that once you

The Royal Promenade With pubs and clubs, karaoke and Latin dancing, the Royal Promenade Kathy and Bill Beck meet Princess Fiona from “Shrek.” is where the action happens. You can enjoy shopping and casual dining The Size and Function or take a trip in the Rising Tides Royal Caribbean has created the Bar—an elevator bar that ferries simplest and most orderly boardings guests between the Promenade and ever. Once aboard, even with over Central Park. There is something 8,000 people aboard, you don’t feel for everyone here; Kathy’s favorite that many people because the ship hangouts were the Cupcake Cupboard is divided into neighborhoods. And and the very first Starbucks at sea. there are enough speedy elevators that you never have to wait.

The distinct ship neighborhoods include the Boardwalk, Royal Promenade and Central Park, along with the pool and sports zone, the spa and fitness center, the youth zone, and the Entertainment Place, with its 1,300-seat theater, nightclubs, casino and ice arena.

Central Park Sold as an urban experience, guests walk on stone paths in Central Park among thousands of trees and shrubs. It feels like being in a city with five passenger decks of cabins rising on each side.

Guests can also walk or

The Entertainment Neighborhood In the entertainment neighborhood, the venues look like they came straight from Broadway. Chicago was fabulous. (On the Oasis, the musical Hairspray has played to raving crowds as well.) Entertainment offered includes a Cirque de Soleil-style water show, an ice skating show, the comedy

club, a jazz venue or the casinos (both smoking and non-smoking), a Latin music club or a karaoke room.

Searching for activity? How about four pools and 10 whirlpools, a rock-climbing wall, a basketball court, a miniature golf course, an ice skating rink, a shopping promenade and a fairground-style carousel.

The Food It is possible to eat all your meals at restaurants “free” (meaning the cost is included in your cruise fee). Restaurants with the word “specialty” have an added fee.

Among the 24 dining choices are Johnny Rockets, an Asian restaurant, a hot dog spot and a pizza place. Fine dining, including wine, can be had for $25 extra. Kosher meals are available in the main dining room.

Don’t Miss the Art! Both the Oasis and the Allure of the Seas feature vast collections of art pieces (over 9,000 commissioned works on each ship). On the Oasis, for example, two cast bronze trees reach toward the sky with individually cast butterflies perched on their limbs. Buy the Wonderbook when you get on board to appreciate the diversity of media.

Susan Zoeller, former owner of Cruise World in Tampa, says seniors love the ships and all of the new amenities. “I just love all of the different neighborhoods and our seniors do too. They offer so many choices in activities. We have had many groups sail on board the ships and they have all returned with RAVE reviews.”

Senior Connection • May 2011 • page 13

Making a Difference

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lsie DeMond dinner together, she wants decided to become Sam to experience new food a mentor with Adults tastes. Sam and his father Mentoring Children have even had Thanksgiving because she spent the dinner at Elsie’s home. first 16 years of her life Elsie feels that if she in an orphanage before gives Sam something going to a foster home. positive to look forward She says, “I know the to or something exciting pitfalls of not having to focus on, it’ll help him someone to talk to and have a good week. They to take time with you. play video games only as I would like to give to a reward for Sam, such as another child the love for a good report card.

Elsie DeMond and Sam. and encouragement Elsie tells Sam, “I’m here that I received (at the foster home).” to help guide you to make the best Elsie mentors a boy named Sam decisions.” According to Elsie, “I and tries to make a difference in his think I get more out of it than Sam life, and helps prepare him to face does. I really look forward to my the challenges life will bring. Sam time with him.” lives with his father and Elsie tries to Adults Mentoring Children of Gulf do with Sam what “normal families” Coast Jewish Family & Community would do. They go to the library, the Services serves children of all faiths mall, the movies, or to Sawgrass Lake and backgrounds. To learn more, call Park or the beach. When they cook Bev at (727) 479-1841.

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Veterans Corner

Veteran Writes Novel about Vietnam

Candy.” When I asked how much of the book is true, n real life, George Ratz he answered, “I let people went to Vietnam as a decide for themselves. signalman with the U.S. Usually spies won’t tell Army and then worked you if they were spies.” six years for the NaResearching the details of tional Security Institute. the book was very important He followed that with to Ratz. “Those who have a career in the mining been there know the industry which took geography. They him all over the world. know when something Someone along the way isn’t right.” probably said, “You Like many Author and should write a book.” Vietnam veteran, other veterans, Ratz Whether they said it himself returned from George Ratz or not, Ratz has just Vietnam with scars – published “George’s Candy” which with Post Traumatic moves with rapid-fire speed through Stress Disorder. the many adventures of a double Retired now and living in Brunswick, agent and his spy named Candy.

Georgia, he said, “I got the help I The novel’s plot begins with a needed. PTSD never leaves you. You package to be delivered to Saigon. don’t become cured, but you learn to The narrator takes the reader down cope with it. From place to place and the streets filled with the destitute person to person you’re always trying locals, into the jungles, the bars to prove yourself as to why you do and back to the States. Safely in the what you do. That’s the difficult part.”

U.S., he learns that the woman he One way he copes is by helping met in Vietnam—Candy—needs other veterans. He has gone from him to come back and rescue her. participating in group meetings to As a double agent, he and Candy find working individually with veterans as themselves in the Vietnamese tunnels well as with parents and families of and in mysterious debriefings. There returnees from Iraq and Afghanistan. are dealings with Navy Seals, FBI and Ratz said thinking up the plot for Special Forces before they leave the “George’s Candy” came easily for country. Candy proves herself valuhim. He started writing after his able as a sailor, a pilot and land travyounger daughter wanted to know eler as well. There seems to be no end more about his life before she to their adventures as they make their was born. That effort became a way from one tight spot to another. very long story and eventually The main character in the book strug- the first chapter of the book. gles with what has become known His wife helped with typing and as PTSD. And even as a toughened friends became readers and gave spy who can seemingly take on any suggestions. A golfing buddy’s wife difficulty, he recognizes times when owned the publishing company he must control his emotions; at one Ratz used, and she recommended point he says, “I am afraid this dethe other contacts needed to make briefing has taken too long. I feel the the book become a reality. toll on me could reach a point where it A true page-turner spy novel, would require someone’s intervention “George’s Candy” is a good read to bring me back to the present.” and an excellent adventure.

Ratz told me he has spent the Available through Barnes and last three years writing “George’s Noble and Amazon.

Our People Make the Difference

SM

BY RALPH MCCLURG

I

Hometown Reunions in youR new

Hometown.

Whether you are an established resident or have recently moved to the Tampa Bay area, chances are you still have a soft spot in your heart for your old neighborhood. And this year, Lake Seminole Square and Freedom Square are making it easier to reconnect with people from your neck of the woods. Enjoy an afternoon of appetizers, cocktails and entertainment as you get caught up on the old times back home. Make plans now to be here when we host former residents from your home state.

illinois & WisConsin Tuesday, May 24 at Lake Seminole Square

nEW JErsEY & nEW YorK Tuesday, June 14 at Freedom Square

All EvEnts ArE from 2 to 4 p.m. • CAsuAl AttirE

Complimentary cocktails and appetizers.

reservations are required. frEEdom squArE A life Care retirement Community 7800 Liberty Lane Seminole, FL 33772

lAKE sEminolE squArE A Waterfront retirement Community 8333 Seminole Boulevard Seminole, FL 33772

(727) 398-0244

(727) 392-3932

www.brookdaleliving.com Our People Make the Difference and Daily Moments of Success are Service Marks of Brookdale Senior Living Inc., Nashville, TN, USA. SEM-ROP01-0611

Senior Connection • May 2011 • page 15

Medicare Answers D ear Marci, I am 65 and just became eligible for Medicare. How much will I pay for preventive services? —Paul Dear Paul, Starting in 2011, consumers who have Original Medicare will no longer pay coinsurance or a deductible for certain preventive care services recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Recommended services, which are 100 percent covered, include: • diabetes screening • medical nutritional therapy • blood tests for heart disease • bone mass measurement • screening mammograms • pap smears, pelvic exams and clinical breast exams • colon cancer screening (fecal occult blood test, flexible sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy) • prostate cancer screening (PSA test) • flu shot • pneumonia vaccine • hepatitis B vaccine • annual wellness visit

See the best.™

Tampa • St. Petersburg

Are You Worried About Macular Degeneration?

For nearly two decades, you’ve known you could trust world-class refractive surgeon Dr. Steve Updegraff for cataracts and high-tech lens implants.

Now, you can count on us for even more.

This summer, Dr. Updegraff is proud to welcome a fellowship-trained retinal specialist, Heeral Shah, M.D., to Updegraff Vision.

Whether you have macular degeneration, cataracts, or diabetic disease of the retina, you know who you can trust.

Steve Updegraff, M.D., FACS Medical Director, Updegraff Vision Senior Connection • May 2011 • page 16

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If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, deductibles and copays may apply to these preventive services in 2011.

However, private plans cannot charge you anything for the flu or pneumonia vaccine. In addition, Medicare Advantage plans cannot require that you get a referral in order to get a screening mammogram or a flu shot. Check with your plan to see how it covers preventive services.

Be sure to follow the Medicare guidelines for receiving these services in order to ensure that Medicare will cover them. Some are covered only once every few years, and others are covered only if you meet specific criteria. —Marci Marci’s Medicare Answers is a service of the Medicare Rights Center (www.medicarerights.org). To speak with a counselor, call (800) 333-4114.

To subscribe to “Dear Marci,” e-mail dearmarci@medicarerights.org.

Taking Care at Barrington Terrace

D

uring May, join any of these at Barrington Terrace Assisted Living and Memory Care Residence, 333 16th Ave., Largo.

10

CarePartner Night: Fellowship and Education for families caring for seniors. Held on the second Tuesday of every month from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. RSVP by calling Dawn at (727) 242-0757.

11

Ladies Tea and Open House—a free afternoon of pampering, beauty and health for all ladies. 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. RSVP to Diane at (727) 588-0020.

26

Caregiver’s Support Group.

Held on the fourth Thursday of every month from 10 –11 a.m.

For more information, please contact Connie at (727) 588-0020.

Midlife Sibling Forgiveness is Doable

BY CATHY CRESS

F

orgiveness is doable and forgiving your siblings achievable. The new book Mom Loves You Best: Forgiving and Forging Sibling Relationships proposes a ten-stage process that will allow you not only to forgive your siblings but forgive yourself as well. These ten stages will help you move toward exoneration, feel better about yourself, mend the past with your brother and sister and repair that potholed childhood road so you and your siblings can move into the future as a united family.

The 10-step program starts with how to express your pain on paper, say it out loud to tell your sibling story. It will help you move from the past to the present to soothe that hurt. A critical next step is to find ways to care for yourself in the present and engage in activities that help you soothe and emotionally heal yourself.

Retirement Living The Mom Loves You Best steps provide the tools to uncover your family rules that told you and your siblings how to behave, perhaps very badly, towards each other. They progress to give you a chance to put yourself in your brothers’ and sisters’ shoes and see what led to such emotional damage in the first place.

As you take the steps recommended and do the exercises to expose your long-ago youthful sibling wound to the here and now, and uncover how you and your brother or sister are still hurting you in the present, you can unearth your pain over your siblings and reveal ways to make yourself healthy and happy. Using your

positive feelings, you can tell your sibling your “I Hate You” story and give him or her a chance to understand your weary, sad feelings and hear his or her side of the story. You can then “give peace a chance” and allow yourself to reestablish a relationship.

Forgiveness can be just for you and does not always have to involve your brother or sister.

The book shows you how to make peace with yourself with or without an apology.

If your sibling does wish to reconcile, steps can be taken which let you accept that request for forgiveness.

If your sibling says he is sorry, you can then establish a new family relationship and end the blaming and angry feelings.

Finally, using forgiveness and all the ways you value yourself, you are guided to how to put together a team relationship with your family. You can help plan a family reunion, allow your children to be full participants in family rituals, start to solve your parents’ aging problems and really forge that new sibling relationship in your adult life that leads to a fulfilling connection for the second half of your life.

Your sibling relationship is the longest thread of your life—longer than you and your children, greater than the time you spend with your spouse. Retying that lifelong knot can bring the next 50 years of your life incredible joy and comfort.

Gloria Steinem famously said that all she had to say to her sister was “Verner’s Gingerale” and they both knew a whole chunk of their childhood. Bring back the person who knows that secret language and love. Try reconciling with your sibling—at any time of your life.

Senior Connection • May 2011 • page 17

The Caregiver Hour

BY KIM LINDER, Host of The Caregiver Hour radio show

Older Americans Month 2011

I

t’s wonderful to honor Older Americans anytime, but this year’s theme, “Older Americans: Connecting the Community” during the month of May is significant. Older adults have been the fabric of our communities for hundreds of years, and they realize now that, in order to be connected, they need to embrace modern computer technology. As a host of a radio show, I have interviewed senior caregivers who have declared they have fallen in love with e-mail, Facebook and Skype and use them to connect to children, grandchildren and friends who are closeby or thousands of miles away. They know that things aren’t the way they used to be, but they are wise enough to hold on to what is important to them, which is family and community.

Older Americans—enjoy your month!

The New Age of Caregiving

J

oin us for an inspiring, fun and informative day for caregivers at The New Age of Caregiving Symposium. Mark your calendar for Friday, September 23, 2011 at Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater, from 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. For details, call (727) 798-2663 or visit newageofcaregivingsymposium.com.

Most older Americans will face the challenge of caregiving sometime in their lives. There are 1 million caregivers in the Greater Tampa Bay Area who are older Americans that have the desire to make well-informed, wellmeaning and well-inspired decisions for their loved ones. As overwhelming as caregiving can be for some of us, there are wonderful resources, experts and integrative approaches to help us create balance in our lives. Our goal is to support you, guide you and hear your voice as a caregiver. Please join us on Friday, September 23, 2011.

Baby Cheetah Gets a New Puppy Pal

J

ust a month after Busch Gardens took in a cheetah cub whose mother wasn’t caring for it, the park’s animal care team has identified the perfect four-legged friend for the 8-week-old cat: a 16-week-old female yellow Labrador puppy.

The two have been spending supervised play times together each

day. Eventually, the pair will live together and even travel together, helping the park’s education team teaching the public about the plight of cheetahs in the wild and the importance of Busch Gardens’ conservation efforts. Guests can see them at Jambo Junction in the Nairobi area of the park. Visit buschgardens.com for tickets.

One-Day Volunteers Need V

Senior Connection • May 2011 • page 18

olunteers are needed to help when one hundred tons of food come in to the RCS Food Bank during a six-hour time span on Sat., May 14. The Food Bank is located at 700 Druid Road in Clearwater.

The Letter Carriers food collection drive will use volunteers at the Post Office

to load and unload trucks, and at the Food Bank to sort the items for distribution to individuals and families in the community. Several shifts are used. Call Rachel Thurber at (727) 584-3528, ext. 407 to volunteer.

Please remember to wear closed-toed shoes in the warehouse!

Get Screened for Oral Cancer W hen Oscar winner Michael Douglas disclosed his late-stage oral cancer diagnosis last year, new light was shed on this hidden health threat. Oral cancer is uncontrolled growth of cells that can affect the lip, tongue, mouth or throat. It can first appear as a tiny sore or spot anywhere in the mouth but often has no symptoms in the early stages.

In the U.S., 35,000 people are diagnosed with oral cancer each year, making it the sixth deadliest form of cancer (deadlier than cervical, brain, ovarian or skin cancer). About 70 percent of the time, it cannot be detected until it reaches a more advanced and potentially disfiguring stage. With early detection patients have a nearly 90 percent survival rate.

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Two Ways To Dodge Dementia

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ou could slash your risk of Alzheimer’s by 60 percent (yes, 60 percent!) with just two healthy habits: Eat like a Greek, and go for a walk.

A large, 5-year study showed that the people in their 70s who were the most active and adhered the best to a Mediterranean-style diet were 61 – 67 percent less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease compared with the least active and least Mediterraneanminded of the group.

Why a Walk Helps First, the walking part of the equation.

The most active in the study group got about an hour and a half of exercise weekly. That’s just a few 30-minute walks a week – a pretty manageable commitment. Better yet, aim to walk 30 minutes every day.

The link is likely because the blood flow from activity nourishes brain tissue and stimulates the generation of neurons, synapses and blood vessels.)

Mediterranean Magic Then, the diet. People with the lowest dementia risk ate the highest amounts of fruit, veggies, legumes and fish, but less meat and dairy products. Monounsaturated fats, like olive oil, also accounted for more of their fat intake than saturated fats. These nutrient-dense, healthy-fat-focused foods could help protect brains against disease and cognitive decline and help protect the body from lots of other bad things, too. It likely works because of the high levels of vitamins C and E and flavonoids which keep arteries healthy – and that keeps blood flowing steadily to the brain. (Info from RealAge.com).

Senior Connection • May 2011 • page 19

Fish Oil Questioned as a Treatment for Heart Disease I

t may be okay for prevention. But eating fish is a better strategy than gulping pills.

Fish oil has been flying high as a supplement for the past few years. It has garnered a reputation as an easy way to protect the heart, ease inflammation, improve mental health and lengthen life. Americans spend more than $1 billion a year on over-the-counter fish oil.

Health But fish oil may have hit its “Black Tuesday.” In a two-week period at the end of November 2010, reports from four randomized controlled trials—the gold standard of medical research— showed that fish oil in one form or another didn’t work any better than placebo at preventing recurring heart problems among heart attack survivors or people with atrial fibrillation.

Senior Connection • May 2011 • page 20

Flip-flop on benefits British physiologist Hugh Sinclair kindled interest in the heart-healthy properties of oily fish and fish oil in the 1940s by suggesting they helped keep the Inuit (Eskimo) people healthy in spite of their high-fat diet. Some long-term follow-up studies showed that people who eat one or more servings of fish a week are less likely to have heart attacks or heart rhythm problems or die from sudden cardiac arrest. A few randomized trials in the 1990s that added fish or fish oil to the diet supported this notion.

So why do the results of the latest trials tell a different story? The early trials were done before the widespread use of heart-protecting medications such as statins, ACE inhibitors, aspirin and beta blockers. Without them,

fish oil by itself could have made a difference. The use of state-of-the-art medical therapy in the more recent trials could have drowned out any small benefit provided by fish oil.

Of course, it is also possible that the trials weren’t large enough or didn’t last long enough to have shown a benefit from fish oil. If that’s the case, any benefit from fish oil is small.

These findings don’t mean fish oil is a complete flop. It may work against heart disease if started earlier, before cholesterol or high blood pressure damages coronary arteries. It could (stress on “could”) fight other types of cardiovascular disease or problems like depression. And it is a good treatment for high triglycerides. But if you already have heart disease, taking fish oil doesn’t seem to do much good.

Eat fish Medical research tends to practice what philosophers of science call reductionism—trying to understand

the nature of something complex (like nutrition and health) by reducing it to the interactions of its parts. If you have heart disease, taking fish oil doesn’t seem to replace eating fish, says Dr. Robert H. Eckel, past president of the American Heart Association and former member of its nutrition committee. The benefit could be due to fish oil in its natural state (in fish), something else in fish or maybe the fact that eating fish means eating less red meat.

What if you just don’t like fish?

Then make sure your doctor has prescribed the best medical therapy for your condition and you are following his or her advice. That is far more important than taking fish oil.

And what about the American Heart Association’s recommendation that people with documented coronary artery disease take in at least 1 gram of omega-3 fatty acids per day from oily fish or a supplement? “I think the time has come to reconsider those guidelines,” says Dr. Eckel.

Laugh for Better Blood Vessels

L

augh your way to better blood vessel function by watching a funny flick.

Laughter relaxes blood vessels and increases blood flow—the exact opposite of what your blood vessels do when you are stressed.

In a small study of healthy men and women with normal blood pressure, watching a funny movie increased blood flow. If funny movies aren’t your style, spend time with the people who tickle your funny bone.

Blood vessels are lined with a layer of cells called endothelium; they regulate blood flow by helping blood vessels expand and contract.

In the study, healthy men and women watched either a funny movie or an intense, violent one while researchers measured blood flow through an artery in their upper arm.

Watching the funny movie caused blood vessels to dilate, increasing blood flow by about 22 percent. The action movie caused mental stress and

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blood vessel constriction, decreasing blood flow by about 35 percent.

Having relaxed blood vessels decreases strain on the heart.

Researchers aren’t exactly sure how mood states affect blood vessels.

Different mood states may alter levels of hormones, such as cortisol, that affect blood vessel function or nitric oxide function. Nitric oxide is a chemical messenger that promotes blood vessel relaxation. Proper diet and regular exercise are the mainstays of improving blood vessel health, but laughing often is a great adjunct.

Learn health tips at RealAge.com.

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Senior Connection • May 2011 • page 21

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Social Security Questions and Answers

Q

: Is there a time limit on how long you can receive Social Security disability benefits?

A: Your disability benefits will continue as long as your medical condition does not improve and you remain unable to work. Social Security reviews your case at regular intervals to make sure you are still disabled.

How often your medical condition is reviewed depends on how severe it is Senior Connection • May 2011 • page 22

and what the likelihood is that it will improve. For more information, read the publication “What You Need To Know: Reviewing Your Disability,” available at socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10068.html.

If you are still receiving disability benefits when you reach full retirement age, they will automatically convert them to retirement benefits. Learn more about disability benefits by visiting socialsecurity.gov and selecting the “Disability” tab along the top of the page.

The Cupid in Your Computer Part Two

D

r. Joy Browne, author of Dating for Dummies, 3rd Edition, says, “When it comes to dating, the Internet has broadened and widened the playing field and deepened the pool.” In addition to being precise and choosing a picture carefully, here are more tips from her book: Make your English teacher proud.

Check and then double-check your grammar, spelling and punctuation.

Nothing will make you look more like a doofus than misspelled words or incorrect grammar. Browne advises, “Ask a discreet friend to read your listing to see if it makes sense and has no major lapses of logic, taste or grammar. Another set of eyes will often catch something you’ve missed.”

Keep the fibs to a minimum. Browne says that on an Internet dating site,

age, weight and sexual history tend to be the general minefield of fibbing. Use the following guideline:

• Your age should certainly be within several years of your actual age – no decade reductions. Beware of saying things like “salt and pepper hair” if you haven’t had any hair on your head since dirt was invented.

• Make sure any physical description roughly correlates with what your mirror reflects, not what your heart desires.

• Beware of women who use “code” and say they’re “voluptuous,” which translates into “35 pounds overweight.”

If you’re a little heavy, then say, “I’m a little heavy. I can live with it. Can you?”

Remember: Sooner or later the intent is to meet face to face, and neither of you should be unpleasantly surprised.

• As for sexual history, don’t go there! Your indiscretions are best forgotten or dealt with in the confessional or therapy, but certainly not on a website with strangers.

Eight Things to Do After Losing Your Wallet

L

osing your wallet or purse is stressful. This to-do list from the Federal Citizen Information Center helps you prioritize: 1. Make a list of what you had in your wallet and tackle the important things first.

2. Immediately cancel all your credit and debit cards, letting your bank know that your wallet was lost or stolen. Request new copies of the card with a new account number.

3. If you were the victim of theft, file a police report so there is an official record.

4. Report a missing driver’s license to your state’s department of motor vehicles and request a new copy.

5. Alert the fraud departments of the three major credit reporting companies. They will place a fraud alert on your name and Social Security num-

ber, and you can request that they alert you before opening a line of credit in your name. (Equifax: 1-800-525-6285; Experian (formerly TRW): 1-888-3973742; Trans Union: 1-800-680-7289) 6. Request a replacement Social Security card and consider not carrying it in your wallet in the future.

7. Contact either your company’s HR department or your health insurance provider directly to get a replacement insurance card. If you’ve lost a Medicare card, contact the Social Security Administration to get a replacement.

8. For other club membership, video rental and bonus club cards, you’ll have to contact each company individually.

Having your cards lost or stolen can be traumatic. But these tips from the Federal Citizen Information Center can help you recover. The only thing you’ll have left to do is pick out a new wallet.

Can Wii Fit Make You Fit?

P

laying two Wii Fit video games— Step and Hula—can provide adequate exercise to improve health and physical fitness, reports a study in the March issue of The Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research.

Wii Fit Step and Hula games “can be used as an effective mode of physical activity to improve health in adult women,” according to the study.

However, the researchers emphasize that players “should strive to participate at higher (intermediate) game levels” to gain exercise benefits.

Oxygen consumption, energy expenditure and other measures of the body’s response to exercise were assessed as players advanced through different levels of each game. It should be noted that at the starting levels, neither Step nor Hula produced high levels of oxygen consumption or perceived exercise intensity.

However, at the intermediate level the energy expenditure was equivalent to a fairly brisk walking pace of 3.5 miles per hour.

At the intermediate level of the Hula game, players could burn approximately five calories per minute.

The study results suggest that the Wii Fit can be used as an effective activity for promoting physical health with the benefits increasing as you move to the intermediate or higher game levels. (From Newswise)

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Vantage...a tale of espionage is a cautionary tale in the post 9/11 era when America has been too quick to forget about the Russians. Set in our nation’s capital, San Antonio, and Moscow, covert agent Alexander Novikov and unsuspecting research psychologist Mark Singer rush headlong toward each other on a collision course. Singer’s cutting edge research in enhanced imaging is secretly funded by the CIA at the state-of-the-art Whitmore Institute in Washington. As Novikov draws close in a daring attempt to steal Singer’s research for the motherland, the CIA stumbles onto a money laundering scheme involving one of its own and members of Washington’s elite. eBook available at: http://www.amazon.com or http://www.barnesandnoble.com Senior Connection • May 2011 • page 23

All I Want Are Some Jeans That Fit

BY CINDY PHILLIPS

I

did it again. I spent hours going store to store convinced I could find them. I must have tried on a hundred pairs, putting on one leg and then the other, shimmying as I tugged them up toward my waist. A few times I actually thought I was going to make it only to be disappointed as the material ran out even though my backside kept going. Why can’t I find a pair of jeans that fit?

We Boomers invented the perfect jeans. We made them popular. We faded them, acid-washed them, colored them, added stretch to them, cut them into shorts and frayed their bottoms. We paired them with t-shirts, crew neck sweaters, buttondown shirts, tank tops, blazers and

sequined satin blouses. We wore them with sneakers, boots, high heels, top-siders and flip flops.

I remember my first pair of jeans.

Actually, they were my sister’s first pair of jeans. The first time I saw them, I was in awe. They were like nothing I had ever seen. When she let me try them on, it was nirvana. Even though she was five years older than me, those jeans fit each of us like a custom-made glove.

As I prepared to go off to college, my mother took me shopping for clothes.

By this time, I had my own jeans and knew exactly what I needed.

They were the Levi’s with the red tag. You didn’t have to try them on, you simply looked for your size, waist times length, and took them to the

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Senior Connection • May 2011 • page 24

decided to come to a complete halt when they got halfway up my behind.

Who could think this would be comfortable for a Boomer body already struggling with self-image issues? Who thought this would look attractive on a bulging Boomer belly? Who came up with this idea?

Not only do I now have a love-hate relationship with every pair of jeans I own, but I am also experiencing relationship issues with all my shirts.

“Pick me, wear me today,” they call out from the closet. It is disheartening to have to look at them and say, “No, I can’t wear you today, you simply aren’t long enough to cover the chasm from where my jeans end and you begin.”

It’s time for a Boomer to start a new jeans company to design the denim to fit our ever-changing bodies. I have the perfect name for the line—C.Y.A. Jeans. Any takers?

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I had three pairs of those jeans and I alternated them each day. I could typically get at least two wearings from each, and then it was time to wash and dry them. It’s not that they were dirty, but they needed tightening up. There was no better feeling in the world than slipping on those Levi’s straight out of the dryer. Sometimes, while struggling with the freshman five, I had to lay on the bed to get them zipped up. But once I closed that top button and stood up, the view from the back was exquisite.

And then something went terribly wrong.

Those jeans that I had revered all these years rebelled. They started going by names like True Religion and Jordache.

And for some totally unexplainable reason, they

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Awesome Classics to the Totally Awesome ‘80s

T

he next Masterworks promises to take concertgoers on a sonic adventure through diverse musical worlds. The evening opens with John Adams’ Doctor Atomic Symphony with its pervasive sense of fear about the destructive forces of the atomic bomb.

However, as if to reassure the audience that good, beauty and hope will prevail, this is followed by Anton Bruckner’s glorious Symphony No. 4, “Romantic.” Stefan Sanderling conducts these concerts on May 13, 14 and 15 in Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater.

At the next morning Coffee Concert, Alastair Willis conducts the orchestra in a program of spirited highlights from Puccini’s Madame Butterfly, Dvorak’s Symphony No. 9, Verdi’s La Forza del Destino, Bernstein’s West Side Story and more. Attendees enjoy complimentary coffee and Krispy Kreme doughnuts prior to this concert, which is May 19 at 11 a.m. at the Progress Energy Center for the Arts, Mahaffey Theater, in St. Petersburg.

The final Raymond James Pops concert of the season salutes the best-loved pop and rock artists of the 1980s. Dubbed “Totally Awesome 80s,” the orchestra will play music

by Madonna, Guns N’ Roses, Phil Collins, Prince, Chicago, Cyndi Lauper, Elton John, Bon Jovi and more. Sarah Hicks conducts these concerts on May 20, 21 and 22 in Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater.

Acclaimed by The New York Times as “a brilliant violinist,” Augustin Hadelich is the soloist in Brahms’ Violin Concerto for the final Masterworks concert of the season, which also includes Berlioz’ Béatrice et Bénédict: Overture, Barber’s symphonic prayer Adagio for Strings and Stravinsky’s lyrical Pulcinella: Suite. Music Director of the Rhode Island Philharmonic Larry Rachleff conducts these concerts on May 27 and 28 in Tampa and St. Petersburg.

For tickets or concert information, visit their website at floridaorchestra. org or call 1-800-662-7286.

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Screenwriters and Actors J

oin the Florida Screenwriters & Actors Connection, an interactive group where members have their screenplays read aloud.

Beginner or professional writers can learn from readings and critiques. Seniors interested in acting can take part (a great help for cold reads).

FSAC meets on the first Tuesdays at the East Library on Drew St. in Clearwater from 12 to 4 p.m., and on the third Thursdays at Panera Bread in the Bardmoor Shopping Center, 10810 Starkey Rd., Largo, from 12 to 4 p.m. Free. Call Barbara at (727) 572-6345 or e-mail bharrington2@tampabay.rr.com.

Fishing the National Wildlife Refuge System I

f you want happiness for a day, go fishing, holds a Chinese proverb.

Cast your line in a national wildlife refuge, enthusiasts might add, and you can also relish spectacular scenery and glimpse wildlife in its natural setting.

Refuge fishing caters to all tastes. An online Guide to Fishing on National Wildlife Refuges is searchable by state, species, region and amenities (such as boat launches and rest facilities). More than 270 of the Refuge System’s 553 refuges are open to fishing; some 7 million anglers visit refuges each year. Visit fws.gov/ refuges/fishingguide for details.

Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge This Florida refuge’s 12 offshore islands are surrounded by shallow

water, mud flats and oyster bars that teem with saltwater fish.

Catch: Spotted sea trout, redfish, mullet. Summer only: Spanish mackerel and tarpon.

Fishing type: Saltwater. Boat fishing.

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Amenities: Bait and tackle nearby; public rest facilities; boat launch; kayaking; Visitor Contact Station at the Lower Suwannee NWR on Hwy. 347.

Other things to know: Visitor Contact Station (at Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge) is open weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., except on federal holidays.

Circle the Wagons for the AARP Spelling Bee

I

t’s time for a “Whether you enjoy “spell.” You can reading the dictionary sit a spell, or you can to keep your mind sharpen your skills for sharp or just meeting the 16th annual AARP other like-minded National Spelling Bee adults, the AARP June 17 and 18 in National Spelling Bee Cheyenne, Wyoming. Photo Credit: Kenneth Jarecke; Contact Press Images always proves to be Open to anyone age exciting and highly 50 or older, the Bee attracts spellcompetitive,” said Tim Summers, ers from all over the United States AARP Wyoming Director. “Many of who compete for gifts and prizes. the spellers prepare year-round for In celebration of the competition, this competition, and we’re pleased Cheyenne is offering city-wide events to be able to provide a forum for and attractions all weekend long, as folks to test themselves. And while well as a special hotel rate at The they are here, they can also enjoy Little America Hotel and Resort. In Cheyenne’s many attractions and addition, a free pre-Bee workshop, events that coincide with the Bee.” “Gray Matters: Training the Grownup Information about the Bee, Brain,” will feature interactive sesincluding schedule, sample word sions that explain the impact of diet, lists, contest details and offitness and relationships on brain ficial rules can be found at aarp.org/ health, and answer your questions. spellingbee or 1-877-926-8300.

Senior Connection • May 2011 • page 26

D Me In eal

Will a Roll of Quarters 4.5 Yards Long Last the Weekend?

BY MARK PILARSKI

D

ear Mark: Is $600 enough of a bankroll for playing quarter slots for a weekend casino trip? —Theresa S.

That depends, Theresa, on which quarter machines you choose to play and the speed at which you play them.

A $600 bankroll on a two- and three-coin machine should be enough to keep you playing for a weekend just so long as you’re not Speedy-Gonzales-fast when hitting the credit button.

Characteristically, a player yanks a handle or pushes a button once every ten seconds. On a 3-coin quarter machine, wagering 75 cents per spin, that’s $4.50 per minute, or $270 per hour.

Since the average quarter machine returns approximately 92 percent to the player, over the long run you will lose around $22 for every hour of play. Four, 4-hour sessions will cost you $352, which is less than your stated bankroll. Simple

“Rithmetic” states you probably won’t tap out and that $600 is enough.

But I couldn’t help thinking of those quarters, each 1.75 mm thick, in one immense coin roller, stretching 4.5 yards, and why it won’t work on all quarter machines. A $600 bankroll wouldn’t be enough for a multi-coin/ multi-line slot machine where you’re betting 50 quarters per spin, which buys you fewer than 50 spins. If you’re on a cold machine you could bust after 10 minutes of play Another alternative, Theresa, is that I sweet-talk you into playing video poker instead. Even poor play on a video poker machine will give you a better payback than most “reel” slot machines do, and that $600 bankroll will last even longer.

Dear Mark: My husband left a cold video poker machine and within two minutes, someone else sat down on the machine he was playing and instantly hit a four-of-a-kind, followed a few minutes later by a royal flush. Would

Word Search

another $10 in that machine have gotten him the same hands? —Sherry F.

I share your disappointment, Sherry, in giving up on a cold machine only to see someone else plop down in front of it and good fortune suddenly bless the newcomer.

Yet, the chill comfort I can provide you is in letting you know that all machines cycle through thousands and thousands of outcomes each and every second. Your husband would have had to hit the deal button at the exact same instant that the following player did in order to have had that four-of-a-kind, let alone the royal. A millisecond difference, earlier or later, would have produced a less juicy outcome.

Dear Mark: Thanks for sharing your great insights about gambling in the casinos. Reading your material quells lots of myths about how slot machines react to gamblers. My question is, are there general casino rules concerning money that a customer finds left on a

slot machine, or if when the Player’s Club card is inserted a voucher prints out with money on it? Can the customer keep the findings? —Grady K. According to them, and we all know who “them” is, ‘taint yours.

“Sea gulling,” i.e. purposively circling the casino looking for orphan credits on a slot machine, vouchers, change on the floor, chips under roulette wheels, or half-eaten sandwiches in the coffee shop, is illegal.

That doesn’t mean there are not opportunists making a full-time occupation of cruising the casino and scavenging the millions lost each year by gamblers who forget their stored credits (winnings).

Clearly, you’re not a slot stalker looking for an easy score. But a tip to you and other slot-playing patrons: before you walk away from any slot machine, don’t forget to press the cash-out button. Millions are lost each year by gamblers forgetting their stored credits. (SENIOR WIRE)

Word Search May 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

April 2011

Otto Sandleben is last month’s winner!

Congratulations!

&

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

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

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

Senior Connection • May 2011 • page 27

Midday By the Bay T

he classic Mahaffey Theater and iconic new Dali Museum join forces to present Midday By the Bay, a free lunchtime entertainment series in the green space between these two renowned venues.

Locals are invited to stroll, bike or drive to the Plaza on their lunch break to celebrate these amazing spaces and hear some of the best entertainment in the area while overlooking the beautiful Tampa Bay. Attendees can create their own picnic, “brown bag” lunch or purchase a snack or sandwich from one of the local vendors.

Upcoming Events: The Jim Morey Band. This four-piece band plays original jazz-flavored roots and funky music with one hand in Storyville, New

6

• • • • • • • •

Spacious Studio, 1 & 2 BR apts.

Walk or Kayak to Honeymoon Island FREE Sewer, Water & Cable Rich Social Activities Elevators Beautiful Clubhouse Heated Swimming Pool Prompt & Courteous Maintenance Staff • FREE scheduled Call Toll Free transportation services 727-734-8479 (Save Gasoline) • Prices start at just 444 North Paula Drive $615 per month Dunedin, Florida 34698 • NO BUY-IN FEES www.scottishtowers.com

EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY

Senior Connection • May 2011 • page 28

Orleans and the other picking confetti out of Tom Wait’s old hat. Visit www.jimmorey.com.

13

Rebekah Pulley.

This artist has been writing, recording and performing her blend of indie-folk and Americana music for well over a decade now. Her haunting vocals and poetic lyrics have made her a favorite among fans and critics alike. Along the way, she has garnered five “Best Of The Bay” awards from Tampa’s Creative Loafing, including Best Singer/Songwriter and Best Acoustic Act. Visit www.rebekahpulley.com.

For more details about Midday By the Bay, visit MahaffeyTheater.com and thedali.org, or call (727) 892-5706.

The Best of May Matinees

BY JUNE HURLEY YOUNG

T

ake in a matinee this month. At the Largo Cultural Center, the Eight O’Clock Theatre presents the Tony Award-winning The Drowsy Chaperone, which is a spoof of the musicals of the ‘20s. Afternoon matinees run from May 6 – 22. Call the Largo Cultural Center at (727) 587-6751.

In Sarasota, the Asolo Repertory Theatre winds down its matinee season with the suspense play Deathtrap, May 4 –12 on the Mainstage. Some days are 2 p.m. performances; some are 8 p.m.

During that same time in the Cook Theatre, see The Innocents about a gay man in the 21st century. Four matinee performances are offered; other dates have evenings only.

Beginning May 19 and running through June, the Asolo offers the musical monologue George Gershwin, Alone.

With several matinee performances offered (as well as evenings), it’s a treat for an afternoon of entertainment.

George is the story of the famous composer’s tragic life, even though his music and lyrics are the life pulse of American music. The Asolo box office is at 1-800-3618388. See a matinee for a perfect afternoon outing.

The Not-So-Sweet Truth about Sweeteners D

r. David Friedman was featured in the March edition of Healthy Living Magazine on the “BitterSweet Truth about Artificial Sweeteners.”

What about artificial sweeteners? Friedman says commonly found restaurants packets of yellow, blue and pink, artificial sweeteners are formulated with an array of toxic chemicals that lead to imbalances in the body and can cause ailments like depression, arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease and even cancer!

Sucralose, in the yellow packet, is commonly sold as Splenda. Sucralose got its origins as an insecticide repellant and is formulated by taking

tar derivative and has no food value whatsoever.

Many chemicals are used to formulate Saccharine, one of them being ammonia.

You may want to reach for a healthy alternative like xylitol.

real sugar and chemically modifying it with chlorine to make it calorie-free.

Acetone (used in nail polish remover), benzene (a toxic carcinogen found in gasoline), toluene (used in glues and paints), and methanol are added to the mix. If that’s not bad enough, the formulation also includes formaldehyde!

Aspartame, in the blue packets sold as NutraSweet and Equal, is the most contested product in FDA

history—more complaints are received on aspartame’s adverse reactions as a food additive than anything else in existence. Aspartame’s main ingredient, phenylalanine, can interfere with proper mental function and wreak havoc on the nervous system.

Saccharine, in the pink packets commonly sold as Sweet‘N’Low, was linked to cancer in animals in the 1960s and 70s. Saccharine is a coal

HEY S SENIOR

Xylitol is a natural, low-calorie, diabetic-friendly sugar alternative extracted from the birch tree. Xylitol also helps reduce cavities and has received official endorsements from several national dental associations, making it the ideal sugar alternative for chewing gums and candy.

In conclusion, look to nature, not chemists, for sweeter and far safer choices.

Dr. Friedman is a “Health Expert” for Lifetime Network’s morning show.

Join Us For These Great Free Events!

Produced by:

May 12, 2011, (9am-2pm) Senior Fun Fest Pinellas County, Seminole Recreation Center Exhibitors, Free Entertainment, Free Health Screenings, Free Coffee & Snacks, Prizes.

June 30, 2011, (9am-2pm) 3rd Senior Fun Fest & Jamboree!

Plant City, FL Strawberry Festival Grounds Over 100 Exhibitors, Live Music,

Dancing, Free Bingo, Health Screenings, Senior Sports Area. Free Coffee & Muffins. Fun Games & Prizes. Free Parking & Admission.

August 4, 2011, (9am-2pm) 3rd Senior Friendly Fest Sun City Center-Community Hall South Campus, Sun City Center, FL Denise “D.J. with a Twist!” 50s & 60s Trivia, Senior Sports Area, Dancing, Live Music, Free Bingo Games, Over 60 Exhibitors, Free Coffee & Snacks, Prizes September 23, 2011, (9am-2pm) 15th Senior Fun Fest & Crazy Legs Walk Brandon

Community Center, Brandon, FL Denise “D.J. with a Twist!” 50s & 60s Trivia, Live Music, Free Bingo Games, Over 50 Exhibitors, Free Coffee & Snacks, Prizes.

December 6, 2011, (10am-3pm) 4th Senior Fun Fest & Jamboree!

Plant City, FL Strawberry Festival Grounds Over 100 Exhibitors, Live Music,

Holiday Festival, Dancing, Free Bingo, Health Screenings, Senior Sports Area.

Free Coffee & Muffins. Fun Games & Prizes. Free Parking & Admission.

Call Toll Free: 1-888-670-0040 • Sponsorships & Booths Available Kathy Beck, Publisher/CEO 813-653-1988 Kathy@srmagazine.com Senior Connection • May 2011 • page 29

Seniors Getting Together Attention SGTers!

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

WOMEN SEEKING MEN 3983 SEEKING COMPATIBLE GENTLEMAN 63 – 75 I am 69yo, 5’3”. 140 lbs. H, W, C, NS, SD, FF. Attractive, honest and loving, looking for someone to share life, travel, exercises, music, etc.

Recent photo would be nice.

3989 SWF RED HEADED “LEO SEEKING LEO” I’m 86 yrs, old. 5’6”, 140 lbs. Italian from Miami via Brooklyn, NY. Love crosswords, plants, NASCAR, horse races and the “Dolphins.” ISO good-looking gent, 70s, mustache a plus. Photo/phone.

4002 SEEKING NICE, POLITE MALE W, NS, SD. I like walks, movies, slow dancing, dinner. Age: late 60s. Possible LTR. Like to travel.

Small frame. I enjoy life. 5 ft. Like to have fun. Call me! Pinellas/Pasco.

4004 TRANSPLANTED SPUNKY CALIFORNIA ARTIST WF, 68, widow, featured in TBMetro April/ May, seeks a buddy, possibly LTR. Please have sense of humor, adventurous, NS, NDrg, SD. Please send phone/photo. Tampa.

4006 HEALTHY, SLENDER, ATTRACTIVE WDWF seeking good gentleman friend, 75 plus, for sharing fun times, possible

RUN YOUR AD FOR ONLY $6 A MONTH

SENIORS GETTING TOGETHER Personal Ad Placement

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

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:

E-mail:

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

Senior Connection • May 2011 • page 30

romance. Enjoy dancing, beaches, movies, travel, flea markets, togetherness, much more. St. Pete.

4010 FILIPINA WOMAN 60 yrs. old. Weight: 116; height: 5’3”. A nursing assistant, caring, faithful, nice and cute. Seeking SWM who is nice, gentle and caring.

1038 SEEKING CHRISTIAN GENTLEMAN Former airline stewardess & model, 5’4”, 104 lbs., widow, slender, white with Ph.D. in healthcare. Fulbright scholar, eats healthy and exercises. Likes sports and animals. Loves the Lord. Fort Myers.

MEN SEEKING WOMEN 3992 SEEKING VERY NATURAL WOMAN I am looking for a woman in her late 50s or early 60s. Going for walks, movies, going out to eat, staying home watching tv. Send phone number. Pasco County.

4003 SEEKING ASIAN OR LATIN LADY FF/LTR. I am D,W, Latin, 67 years old, like sports, gardening, movies, walking. ND, NS and mellow. Please send photo, include telephone number or letter. Must be Christian.

4005 SWM, 66, 5’7”, 150 LBS. Seeking relocatable slim, healthy, romantic, non-smoking gal, best friend, companion to share new life, new home near Gulf beaches. Please send photo/ description. I’ll send mine.

Commonly Used Abbreviations: F-Female, M-Male, S-Single, D-Divorced, WW-Widow, A-Asian, B-Black, H-Hispanic, I-Indian, W-White, C-Christian, J-Jewish, YO-Years Old, YY-Years Young, ISO-In Search Of, SOH-Sense Of Humor, SM-Smokes, S-Light Smoker, NS-Non Smoker, ND-Non Drinker, SDSocial (Light) Drinker, DR-Drinks, NDrgNo Drugs, LTR-Long Term Relationship, HWP-Height & Weight Proportional, RRetired, P-Professional, FF-Friendship First, TLC-Tender Loving Care.

4009 SEEKING INTENSELY ROMANTIC LADY This male works extremely hard at looking and being his absolute best. Her age utterly unimportant. Sincere loving is. This is to be a permanent relationship.

4011 QUIET, CLEAN MALE, RETIRED, Iives on the Bay, does meditation and yoga, seeking a while female, fair hair, blue eyes, between 45 yrs. to 75 yrs. for LTR in St. Pete or around.

4012 ITALIAN-AMERICAN, 60’S, 225 LBS. in shape, seeking well educated, good morals, slender, SD, NS, WW, Catholic for friendship first. Kindly send photo and description. Thanks. Apollo Beach.

4013 I AM SEEKING a slim white female, blonde, green eyes, forever LTR. I am male, 64 yrs. old. I am a Hindu. I have a car and a home in St. Petersburg. All answered.

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.

Last Month’s Answers

Enter

This Month’s to Win! Winner Is Annette Dentale Congratulations!

This month’s winner is

Enter To Win!

Myron L. Guisewite Congratulations !!!

Last Month’s Answers

May 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 May 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!

(Sudoku must be received by May 21, 2011.)

Last Month’s Answers

April Sudoku Donald Reynolds is last month’s winner!

Congratulations!

FILL IN ANSWERS & WIN MONEY!

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

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

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

Insurance Elder Law / Financial Housing Options Reverse Mortgages

Personal Health & Fitness Home Improvements Automobiles

Name Address City

Age

Phone

E-mail

State Zip

SC/Hills and Sun

FILL IN ANSWERS & WIN MONEY!

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

Win Great Prizes!

New winner selected each month

Good Luck!

Firearms Safety Classes A

firearms safety class is being offered on both May 4 and May 21, 2011, at the Hernando Sportsman’s Club to meet the need for a firearms orientation program for new gun shooters. Completion of this class also provides required documentation to apply for a Florida concealed carry permit. The class starts at 9 a.m. and is approximately five hours long. Preregistration is required. Cost: $50.

Classes will be held at the Hernando Sportsman’s Club, 16121 Commercial Way, Brooksville. For more information, please call (352) 597-9931 or visit their website at hernandosportsmansclub.com.

Senior Connection • May 2011 • page 31

Eat Healthy at KFC

G

ood choices at KFC include the KFC Snackers Honey BBQ (2 sandwiches for 420 calories, 6 g fat and 940 mg sodium) or the Honey BBQ Sandwich at 490 calories, 14 g fat but a whopping 1,080 mg sodium.

Beware the condiment trap in a place like KFC! Their Garlic Parmesan Dipping Sauce tastes fabulous with just about anything, but it comes at a cost of 130 calories. It’s a tricky soybean-oil-

based sauce with more calories than a KFC Original Recipe Drumstick (oooh, so yummy). Skip the sauce!

Two more to beware of here are the Crispy Twister which loads up a crispy chicken serving inside a carb-loaded tortilla and tops it off with a load of fat in the “pepper mayo sauce.” Don’t do it. Also pass if you see their Boneless Honey BBQ Hot Wings (720 calories, 40 g fat and 2,080 mg sodium).

LUTZ Dale’s Auto Service .....................813-264-0007 BRANDON Auto Clinic of Brandon .................813-654-8686 Xtreme Powersports ....................813-626-6060 Santiago Chopper........................813-671-9097 NAPA Auto Parts .........................813-689-7168 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

Senior Connection • May 2011 • page 32

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

Advance Auto Parts ...................727-520-9310 Advance Auto Parts ...................727-327-4532 Rick Stroud Auto ........................727-549-1911 Modded Motorsports ..................727-432-0270

PINELLAS PARK George’s Performance ................727- 521-2206

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

PORT RICHEY Parts Depot

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

727-844-5588

RIVERVIEW Thomp. Auto Parts.......................813-677-4201 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 Advance Auto Parts ...................727-526-2401

TAMPA John Erb’s ....................................813-908-3333 Speedy Transmission ..................813-971-3766 Atlantic Automotive ......................813-936-1510 Tony’s RamTech ..........................813-877-6642 Insty Tune & Lube ........................813-960-3908 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

French Toast Means Doing Breakfast Right F Orange French Toast 2/3 cup orange juice 1/4 tsp. salt 2 eggs 2/3 cup fine dry bread crumbs Bread slices

or Mother’s Day, an ordinary day or a visit from the grandkids, making French Toast means doing breakfast right. It’s an all-purpose meal that can be made the night before or be quickly put together in the morning. Gotta love it!

Recipe Heart Smart French Toast 1 whole egg, slightly beaten 2 egg whites 1 tbsp. honey 1/4 tsp. cinnamon 1/4 cup skim milk 1 mashed, overripe banana 10 slices whole wheat bread Mix egg, egg whites, honey, cinnamon, milk and banana. Spray heated griddle with cooking spray.

Dip bread in egg mixture, turn to coat both sides. Cook on griddle till done.

Beat together 2/3 cup orange juice, eggs and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Dip bread slices into egg mixture and into bread crumbs, coating evenly on both sides.

Fry in small amount of hot shortening until golden brown.

Overnight French Toast 1 loaf (1 pound) French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes 8 eggs, lightly beaten 3 cups of 2% milk 4 tsp. sugar 1 tsp. vanilla extract 3/4 tsp. salt

Topping: 2 tablespoons butter 3 tablespoons sugar 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon Maple syrup, optional

Place bread cubes in a greased 13-in. by 9-in. baking dish. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla and salt. Pour over bread. Cover and refrigerate for 8 hours or overnight.

Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. Dot with butter. Sprinkle with combined sugar and cinnamon.

Cover and bake at 350 degrees for 45 – 50 minutes or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.

Let stand for 5 minutes. Serve with maple syrup if desired.

Some Say “No Way” to Cutting Costs in Retirement

E

ighty-five percent of those turning 65 this year have no plans to downsize their homes, while others say they don’t intend to reduce any expenses in retirement. That’s according to an AARP survey of 801 adults. How will they finance their lifestyle?

More than half of employed respondents expect to work until they’re age 70 or older. Another study also found that those who don’t have enough money to retire said they would delay retirement and save money rather than reduce their standard of living.

From U.S. News and World Report, January 4, 2011.

Insurance Discounts For Mature Drivers Take Your Class Online!

• Study at your leisure, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

• Simply read the course materials online and then answer a few quiz questions.

• There is no need to attend boring classes or listen to long lectures.

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

Have a Florida’s Driver’s License and are 55 years of age or older?

Florida Department of Highway Safety & Motor Vehicle Approved Course

Take Your Mature Driver Course On The Internet!

If you have a Florida Driver’s License and are 55 years of age or older, you are now eligible to complete motor vehicle accident prevention course that will allow you to receive a mandatory reduction on your insurance rate for three years.

To Register go to:

www.seniordriverclass.com

or call 1-800-771-2255 Senior Connection • May 2011 • page 33

Cirque Du Soleil Comes to Bay Area W

Join the official Seniors Fan Club of the Tampa Bay Rays for only Season Ticket Holder Price $15 (excludes ticket vouchers)

$25!

All Rays fans 55 and older can join the Golden Rays and receive:

• Official Golden Rays T-Shirt • Official Golden Rays Tote Bag • Golden Rays Membership Card • Coupons for merchandise and concession items • Invitations to exclusive Golden Rays events • Special offer for discounted tickets for select Rays home games • Get 2 ticket vouchers to use for your choice of the games listed:

G R GR

One ticket for voucher #1

One ticket for voucher #2

April 21 vs. CWS

May 3 vs. TOR

June 27 vs. CIN

August 9 vs. KC

August 22 vs. DET

August 24 vs. DET

www.raysbaseball.com

ith its always daring aerial acrobatics, powerfully moving vocal performances and incredibly inventive clowns, Cirque du Soleil is legendary for providing entertainment experiences that appeal to all ages and are applauded by audiences worldwide.

This summer, one of Cirque du Soleil’s signature shows, Alegria, will be performed in the St. Pete Times Forum for the first time from June 22 – 26.

Alegria is Spanish for elation, joy and jubilation and exemplifies those attributes with its flamboyant costumes, original music

ELVIS ese R u s s e l C o rt

performed live, elaborate sets and always astonishing mix of athleticism and artistry that combines strength, skill and speed.

This more than two-hour spectacle showcases the high-energy Aerial High Bars where aerialists fly into the grasp of catchers swinging more than 40 feet above the stage, the Mongolian art of contortion, the daring Fire-Knife Dance and the vibrancy of Power Track, a dynamic display of synchronized choreography and tumbling on a trampoline system hidden beneath the stage floor. In Russian Bars, artists soar through the air and perform spectacular somersaults and mid-air turns, landing on bars perched on the sturdy shoulders of catchers.

Tickets are available for all performances at www.cirquedusoleil.com/ alegria or by calling 1-800-745-3000.

TRIBUTE Artist SCHEDULE A SHOW! • Singing Telegrams • Birthday Parties • Anniversaries • Weddings • Corporate Events You name it!

• Reasonable prices • Professional sound equipment and background music.

• Shows include top quality costumes.

• Half hour – 2 hour shows.

Call: 727-785-7947 or 727- 455-1237 e-mail: Russell.Elvis@yahoo.com website: www.russellelvis.com Senior Connection • May 2011 • page 34

Presented by...

FREE

Hey rs! o Seni

and

Join Us ....

June 30, 2011 9 am – 2 pm

rry At the Strawbe ds Festival Groun

2202 W. Reynolds St. Plant City, FL

Dancing • Live Music Free Health Screenings BINGO • Games and Lots More!

Plant City

Fritzy IOR N E LY S ND E I FR NCH LU

Senior Friendly Sports Center Denise Looney

Eddy Rivers

Richie Merritt

$1000s in Prizes & Giveaways!

Play & Win!

Free Coffee & Goodies

FREE PARKING

“Senior Friendly” Exhibitors

EDUCATION • INFORMATION • ENTERTAINMENT

Parkinson’s & Macular Degeneration Educational Seminars

Call: 813-653-1988 for more information • Directions 813-652-9194 • www.srmagazine.com Senior Connection • May 2011 • page 35

Wednesday’s are WILD on !

A M A DR !

N O I T !

AC E R U T N E V AD Tampa Bay’s only FREE 24 hour Movie Channel!

Digital 32.2 BrightHouse 630 Verizon 463 Comcast 229 FREE MOVIES 24 HOURS A DAY