Lifestyles After 50 Southwest Jan. 2013 edition

www.LifestylesAfter50FL.com • Southwest • FREE

January 2013

Defining Moments from 1963 Winter Wonderland Vacation

Fairs & Festivals Galore Boomer Beat

uper ecipes S R

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 2

A Time For New Beginnings

Dear Readers,

I

t’s that time of year again: Start a new calendar and think about what we want to accomplish in a new year.

Janice Doyle, For me, I’m going Editor to start by trying to lose a few pounds and slow down to more fully enjoy beautiful flowers.

Dear Husband has worked hours and hours over the past two years we’ve been married creating a backyard full of beautiful plants. This picture is just one of the twelve colors of hibiscus now in bloom.

And, because we also need to laugh, I want to share this poem again.

Congratulations!

The Winner Of The Book America's Best Pies Was Sylvana Mielke Of Port Charlotte!

The Month After Christmas T’was the month after Christmas, and all through the house, Nothing would fit me, not even a blouse; The cookies I’d nibbled, the eggnog I had to taste, At the holiday parties had gone to my waist; When I got on the scales there arose such a number!

When I walked to the store (less a walk than a lumber), I’d remember the marvelous meals I’d prepared, The gravies and sauces and beef nicely rared; The wine and the rum balls; the bread and the cheese, And the way I’d never said, “No thank you, please.”

As I dressed myself in my husband’s old shirt, And prepared once again to do battle with dirt, I said to myself, as only I can, “You can’t spend a winter disguised as a man!”

So, away with the last of the sour cream dip.

Get rid of the fruit cake, every cracker and chip.

Every last bit of cheese that I like must be banished, ’Til all the additional ounces have vanished.

I won’t have a cookie, not even a lick.

I’ll want only to chew on a long celery stick.

I won’t have hot biscuits, or corn bread, or pie, I’ll munch on a carrot and quietly cry.

I’m hungry, I’m lonesome, and life is a bore, But isn’t that what January is for?

Unable to giggle, no longer a riot.

Happy New Year to all and to all a good diet!

Senior Entrepreneurs Wanted

Did opportunity for success come knocking at your door? We’re looking for stories of successful senior entrepreneurs! If you took a unique opportunity and ran with it after you turned 50, briefly (100 words or less) tell about yourself and your business. We’ll choose several entrepreneurs to tell our readers about. Send your story by email to janice@lifestylesafter50.com (subject line: Entrepreneur Story) or by snail mail to Attn. Janice, News Connection USA, Inc. P.O. Box 638, Seffner, FL 33583. Be sure to include your name, address and phone number.

Lee, Collier & Charlotte Edition Published monthly by News Connection U.S.A., Inc General Manager Dave Tarantul dave@lifestylesafter50.com

Publisher/Director of Events & Marketing Kathy J. Beck kathy@lifestylesafter50.com Editor Janice Doyle janice@lifestylesafter50.com Office Manager Vicki Willis vicki@lifestylesafter50.com

Administrative Assistant Nancy Spencer nancy@lifestylesafter50.com Production Supervisor/Graphic Design Kim Burrell kim@lifestylesafter50.com Associate Editor/Production Assistant Tracie Schmidt tracie@lifestylesafter50.com Distribution (941) 375-6260

Advertising Sales

Lee/Collier and Charlotte Nancy Kuehne: (239) 822-6150 Sarasota/Manatee Julie Simzak: (941) 685-1676 Kelly Shirmer: (843) 568-9044 Customer Service (941) 375-6260 dave@lifestylesafter50.com

News Connection USA, Inc. P.O. Box 638 Seffner, Florida 33583-0638 (941) 375-6260 • (877) 535-3749 Fax: (941) 375-8178 www.lifestylesafter50fl.com Our other editions: Sarasota Edition: Sarasota/Manatee Hillsborough Edition: Hillsborough County Suncoast Edition: Pinellas/Pasco Counties Lake Edition: Lake/Marion Counties To learn more, call 1-888-670-0040

(813) 653-1988 • 1-888-670-0040 Fax: (813) 651-1989 www.lifestylesafter50fl.com

FCOA Attention Readers: The articles printed in Lifestyles After 50 do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the Editor or the staff. Lifestyles After 50 endeavors to accept reliable advertising; however, we cannot be held responsible by the public for advertising claims. Lifestyles After 50 reserves the right to refuse or discontinue any advertisement. Our advertising deadline for the February 2013 issue is Jan. 15, 2013. Magazines are out by the 7th of each month. All rights reserved.

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 3

The EASY BOARDING Bicycle by Biria Naples Cyclery 813 Vanderbilt Beach Rd. Naples, FL 34108

239-566-0600

Engel’s Bicycles Int’l 27310 Old 41 Road Bonita Springs, FL 34135

239-498-9913

• Unisex step-through design engineered in Germany • Cross bar is only six inches from the ground, so you can easily step-through the bicycle • Upright seating position for less back pain and clear view of the road • Relaxed arm position for more control

Fort Myers Schwinn Cyclery 3630 Cleveland Ave. Fort Myers, FL 33901

239-939-2899

Acme Bicycle Shop 615 Cross St. #1116 Punta Gorda, FL 33950

941-639-3029

www.acmebicycleshop.com EA Bicycles 15630 McGregor Blvd.

Fort Myers, FL 33908

For more dealers contact Biria USA:

Tel: 201-461-1980 • www.biria.com

239-415-6600

Around Town W H AT ’ S H A P P E N I N G J A N U A RY 2 0 1 3

T

hrough 27 Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, drama by Tennessee Williams, performed at Laboratory Theater of Florida, 1634 Woodford, Fort Myers. $20 tickets. (239) 218-0481.

T

hrough Feb. 16 Fiddler on the Roof musical production at Broadway Palm Dinner Theater, with songs like “Tradition,” “Matchmaker, Matchmaker” and “Sunrise, Sunset.”

Tickets online or at (239) 278-4422.

4

– 13 Rumors production by Cultural Park Theater, 528 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral. $18 tickets. $16/seniors. Call (239) 772-5862

5 8 26Feb. 1 and 2

and 6 Estero Fine Art Show at Miromar Outlets. Juried show. Info: (941) 755-3088 or info@hotworks.org.

Afternoon tea 2 to 4 p.m. 25 and Ghost Walks (reservations only) . Koreshan State Also Historic Site. Call (239) 992-0311 or visit floridastateparks.org.

Lee County Community Band toe-tapping concert. 3 p.m.

Cape Coral High School, 2300 Santa Barbara Blvd., Cape Coral. Free; donations accepted. Band members are career musicians, amateurs and folks renewing skills from years past. Info: leecountyband.org or (239) 995-2097.

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Kayak Clinic—basic kayak and safety instruction plus paddle time. $40/equipment and lessons. GAEA Guides at Four-Mile Cove Ecological Park in Cape Coral. (239) 549-4606.

18

Sunshine Blues Festival. Two stages; beer and barbecue vendor. Centennial Park, 2000 W. First St. $49.50 admission. Information online at sunshinebluesfestival.com.

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“Willie & Company” ventriloquist act by Peggy Miller.

7 p.m. $12. Tara Woods, 19376 U.S. Hwy. 41 N., North Fort Myers. For more info, call Polly at (239) 731-0311.

10

24

11

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“New Technology For You” class at South County Library.

Look at and learn about new devices and what and how to buy. 9:45 a.m.

Register online at leelibrary.net/ services/programs. (239) 479-4636.

– 27 Intimate Exchanges, theater presentation of Laurence Olivier Award nominee/best New Comedy in 1984. At Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd.

(239) 936-3239. $18 tickets.

12

– 13 and 19 – 20 Medieval Faire

by Riverdale Kiwanis Club at Lakes Regional Park. Entertainment, jousting by new Riders of the Golden Age, street entertainers, arts and crafts, Medieval clothing and weapons, food and beverages for purchase. $15 admission. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (239) 839-8036.

13

Rotino Roadshow—Antique and Collectibles Fair. Appraisals for $5 per item appraised.

11 a.m. to 3 p.m. At Rotino Center, Yacht Club Community Park. Call (239) 574-0807 for information.

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 4

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“More Than a Trifling Affair: The Archeology of the Civil War in Southwest Florida” program by the Florida Public Archaeology Network at North Fort Myers Library. 2 to 3 p.m. (239) 533-4320 for information.

PugFest, Cirque du Pug, a fundraiser for the Library System Reading Festival (in March).

Admission free;$5 donation/family suggested. Noon to 4 p.m. at Bell Tower Shops, Corner U.S. 41 and Daniels Pkwy, Fort Myers. Information at (239) 337-READ (7323) or readingfestival@leegov.com.

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Gulf Coast Symphony Orchestra plays Hollywood Hits. 7 p.m. $42 and up. Call (239) 277-1700.

Send Around Town news to News Connection USA, Inc., P.O. Box 638, Seffner, FL 33583; fax (813) 651-1989 or email janice@lifestylesafter50.com.

News must be received by the 10th of the month prior to event (i.e.

January 10 for February event.)

o act N tr n o C

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GreatCall® created the Jitterbug with one thing in mind – to offer people a cell phone that’s easy to see and hear, and is simple to use and affordable. Now, they’ve made the cell phone experience even better with the Jitterbug Plus. It features a lightweight, comfortable design with a backlit keypad and big, legible numbers. There is even a dial tone so you know the phone is ready to use. You can also increase the volume with one touch and the speaker’s been improved so you get great audio quality and can hear every word. The battery has been improved too– it’s one of the

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IMPORTANT CONSUMER INFORMATION: DoubleTime offer valid on Basic 19 Plan and applies to new GreatCall customers only. Offer ends 3/31/13. Offer valid until plan is changed or cancelled. All GreatCall phones require a one-time set up fee of $35. Coverage and service are not available everywhere. You will not be able to make 9-1-1 calls when cellular service is not available. Rate plans do not include government taxes or assessment surcharges and are subject to change. No roaming or long distance charges for domestic calls within the U.S. There are no additional fees to call GreatCall’s 24-hour U.S. Based Customer Service. However, for calls to an Operator in which a service is completed, minutes will be deducted from your monthly balance equal to the length of the call and any call connected by the Operator, plus an additional 5 minutes. 1 We will refund the full price of the GreatCall phone if it is returned within 30 days of purchase in like-new condition. We will also refund your first monthly service charge if you have less than 30 minutes of usage. If you have more than 30 minutes of usage, a per minute charge of 35 cents will apply for each minute over 30 minutes. The activation fee and shipping charges are not refundable. Jitterbug and GreatCall are registered trademarks of GreatCall, Inc. Samsung is a registered trademark of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Copyright ©2012 Samsung Telecommunications America, LLC. Copyright ©2012 GreatCall, Inc. Copyright ©2012 by firstSTREET for Boomers and Beyond, Inc. All rights reserved.

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 5

A Few Defining Moments From

T

he first disco opened in the Whisky A Go-Go night club in Los Angeles.

The first inductees into the Pro Football Hall of Fame were announced.

Travel, financial and commercial transactions by U.S. citizens to Cuba were made illegal NASA’s Mercury program, which put men in space, was completed with the June launch of Mercury 9.

Bob Dylan released “Blowin’ in the Wind.”

other things. He delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech on the National Mall, putting civil rights at the top of the political agenda.

In August, James Meredith became the first black person to graduate from the University of Mississippi.

In September, CBS Evening news began the first half-hour weeknight news broadcasts.

In Britain, the Beatles recorded “Twist and Shout” and “I Want to Hold Your Hand.”

Flight A members, Mercury Program

The “red telephone” was established between the Soviet Union and the U.S. in June.

LSD was taken for the first time in July, opening the way for the drug culture yet to come.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

In August, Martin Luther King led a March on Washington, demanding a law prohibiting racial discrimination in unemployment and a $2 per hour minimum wage for all workers among Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 6

Studebaker ceased production in South Bend.

And finally, the Motor Trend’s Car of the Year choice was the American Motors (AMC) Rambler.

Cost of Living

President John F. Kennedy

of president. It was a difficult time to become president with the mounting troubles in Vietnam where the Viet Cong Guerrillas had killed 80 American Advisers and in the U.S. The continued campaign for civil rights by the black community caused violent reactions from whites including Mississippi, Virginia and Alabama where the black civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. was arrested.

Technology

1963 was the first year for: • touch tone phones • zip codes • lava lamps • tape cassettes • pull tab cans for sodas

• Yearly Inflation Rate: 1.24% • Year End Close Dow Jones Industrial Average: 762 • Average Cost of new house: $12,650.

• Average Income per year: $5,807.

• Gas per Gallon: 29 cents • Average Cost of a new car: $3,233.

• Loaf of bread: 22 cents • Bedroom Air Conditioner: $149.95

Popular Culture This was the year State Mutual Life Insurance invented the Smiley Face that was soon found on anything and everything around the world.

Popular Musicians • Roy Orbison • Buddy Holly • The Drifters • Jim Reeves Popular TV Programs • The Virginian • Lassie • The Andy Griffith Show • The Flintstones • Mister Ed • The Avengers • The Dick Van Dyke Show Popular Films • The Birds • Cleopatra • The Longest Day • Lawrence of Arabia • Mutiny on the Bounty • To Kill a Mockingbird

News The biggest news from 1963 was the assassination of the U.S. President Kennedy on November 22. This thrust Lyndon Johnson into the role

1963

The “Beatles”

Can Seniors Be Safe Drivers?

I t’s an ongoing question—can seniors be safe drivers? The answer varies from one person to the next. Here are 8 tips that could save your life: For most Americans, driving is such a regular part of everyday life that we don’t think twice about slipping behind the wheel. Years in the driver’s seat give us a lot of valuable experience, but there’s a downside, too: As we age, our risk of getting in car accidents goes up.

Road safety analysts predict that by 2030 when the last of the baby boomers has turned 65, seniors will be responsible for 25 percent of fatal car crashes.

Here’s what you can do to stay safe: Listen to your body.

Aches and pains can impair your driving ability, but sometimes you can mitigate them with simple adjustments. Do your hands ache from gripping the steering wheel? Try a padded steering wheeel cover. Does you back hurt during longer trips?

Get an orthopedic seat cushion.

Test your eyes and ears.

Today, 6.5 million Americans over age 65 suffer from severe vision loss, according to the CDC. Any changes to vision and hearing can make driving dangerous. Visit your doctor for regular check-ups to make sure your eyes and ears are in tip-top shape.

Consider a new car.

Many older adults find that a vehicle with large mirrors and dashboard gauges, and that is easy to get in and out of, makes driving a lot more comfortable. Check out carfit.com, a service offered by AAA that tests your vehicle to find out if it’s ideal for you.

Stay physically active.

Regular exercise can help keep your body performing well behind the wheel. Try yoga to improve your flexibility and sterengthen your core for comfortable long drives and light weight lifting to keep your arms from getting tired.

Experience the difference experience makes!!

Celebrating Our 20th Anniversary Reliability, Integrity, Damage-Free WE OFFER THE FOLLOWING SERVICES:

Drive only in good weather. 17 percent of car crash fatalities occur during bad weather. Stay off the road when the weather is inclement, and you’ll lower your chances of getting in a crash.

Limit distractions. AAA estimates that 25 to 30 percent of all accidents are caused by a distracted driver. To keep from being one of them, get settled before you press the gas pedal, choose your radio station and adjust your mirrors and seat. If you’re using directions, make sure you’ve printed out and reviewed them beforehand, or if you have a GPS, enter your destination before you start driving. Put your cell phone in the back seat to keep yourself from answering calls or texts.

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Know your medications.

Some medications can cause drowsiness, which can lead to accidents. Always talk to your doctor or pharmacist about possible side effects. If you’re not supposed to operate a vehicle while taking your medications, don’t.

Take a refresher course.

If you had to take a highschool biology test now, how well would you do? It’s been that long since you’ve learned the rules of the road, so consider updating your driving skills in a local or online class. Some insurance companies will even lower their premiums if you do.

(See the AAA website to find a class.)

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Contact us for more information: 1-888-670-0040 Visit us on the web: www.lifestylesafter50fl.com Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 7

STIR UP SOME SUPER BOWL FUN W

hen it’s Super Bowl time— or any party, for that matter —you can stir up some fun with easy-to-make appetizers that are sure to please the whole crowd.

These four recipes are a breeze to make and all share one simple secret ingredient—Musselman’s Apple Butter. Here are some delicious ideas for turning these dips and sauces into great party appetizers.

Recipe Quick and Easy BBQ Sauce

Makes: 6 to 8 servings

1 cup Musselman’s Apple Butter 1 cup chili sauce

Mix ingredients. Brush on chicken wings or shrimp during the last few minutes of grilling. It is simple to make BBQ pulled pork, as well as the sauce for a crockpot of meatballs or bacon-wrapped smoked sausages.

Apple Butter Mustard Dip

Kickin’ Horseradish Sandwich Spread

Caramel Apple Dip

1 cup Musselman’s Apple Butter 1/2 cup Dijon mustard

1 cup Musselman’s Apple Butter Creamy horseradish sauce depending on spice level (1/4 cup for light, 1/2 cup for mild, 1 cup for hot)

1 cup Musselman’s Apple Butter 1/2 cup caramel sauce

Makes: 6 to 8 servings

Mix ingredients. Delicious with just hard or soft pretzels. Set out a plate of cheese cubes or mini egg rolls for dipping, and you have easy snacking.

Makes: 6 to 8 servings

Mix apple butter with desired amount of horseradish. This tastes great with roast beef, chicken, or pork—try mini sandwich sliders or pinwheel wraps. Another great idea is to use the spread as a dip for chicken tenders, sweet potato fries or even veggie chips.

Makes: 6 to 8 servings

Mix ingredients. Set a dish of this warm dip on a pretty tray and surround it with freshly sliced apples or pears, and simple gingersnap cookies. For a family fun dessert, dip marshmallows and then roll them in chopped nuts.

For more ways to stir up some fun at your party, visit www.musselmans.com.

(Family Features)

The Ultimate Burger Super Bowl: Fun Facts

B

Photo by Redsie

urger toppings are like football teams—everybody has their favorites, and they swear by ‘em. You could do it Philly-style with melted cheese, onions and green peppers; Chicagostyle with fresh relish and spicy slaw; or throw some barbeque sauce and fried onions on top, Texas-style. Swiss and mushrooms, bleu cheese and cajun spices, even mac and cheese—burger toppings abound; but the secret to the ultimate burger is a juicy, flavorful patty.

This recipe for the ultimate patty comes from Kittencal at Food.com: Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 8

Kittencal’s Juicy Hamburger 2 lbs ground beef 1 egg, slightly beaten 1 ounce envelope dry onion soup mix (can use the whole package if desired) 2 tablespoons fresh minced garlic (or use 1 teaspoon garlic powder) 1/4 cup dry breadcrumbs (or crushed soda cracker crumbs, more if needed) (optional) 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper 1 -2 tablespoon Frank’s red hot sauce (or 1-2 teaspoons crushed chili flakes, or can adjust to heat level) (optional) Directions: 1. In a bowl, crumble the ground beef with clean hands. Add in the dry soup mix, egg, garlic, breadcrumbs or crushed soda cracker crumbs, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper and hot sauce (if using).

2. Mix until combined, adding breadcrumbs or cracker crumbs as needed to hold the mixture together (do not overwork the meat or it will be tough).

3. Divide the ground beef into 6 equal patties (or make 8 small patties).

4. Using your large finger or the back of a small spoon, make a shallow dent into the center of each patty (about 1-inch wide).

5. Place the patties onto a large plate or a small cookie sheet; cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 6 – 24 hours to blend flavors.

6. Grill or pan fry the burgers until cooked through (if desired, sprinkle a small amount of seasoned salt on top while cooking the patties). Serve on toasted buns with choice of condiments.

7. For extra juiciness; shape the hamburger into a ball. Press 1 tablespoon cold butter into the middle and seal the meat around the ball, then flatten into patties.

The first Super Bowl was held in Memorial Coliseum in Los Angeles on Jan. 15, 1967. The Green Bay Packers beat the Kansas City Chiefs, 35 – 10.

Super Bowl Sunday is the second biggest day of the year for food consumption in the US. Thanksgiving is first.

Every year, more than 700,000 footballs are made for official NFL use. 72 of them are set aside for use during the Super Bowl.

Which NFL team has played in the most Super Bowls? The Pittsburgh Steelers and Dallas Cowboys have each played in 8 of them.

The Steelers have won six of those games (also a Super Bowl record).

The Cowboys have a 5 – 3 record.

The Super Bowl is the second most watched sporting event in the world. The first is soccer’s Champions League Final.

(From internet sources)

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Sterling Silver Flatware • Sterling Silver Tea Sets • Franklin Mint Coins Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 9

The Best of Charlotte County

January 2013

T 9

hursdayx “Ingroov” Big Band Music. 2 – 4 p.m. $3 admission.

Caribbean Lunch.

11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. $13. Jerk Chicken, Roast Pork, Coconut Rice, Mango Salad and more.

23

Bedtime Bingo. Party in your pajamas!

Up to 2,450 in prizes Dinner included. $35. 4:30 p.m..

26

“Greg and the Groovemakers” music and dancing, $10, 7 – 10 p.m.

All events at Cultural Center of Charlotte County, 2280 Aaron Street, Port Charlotte. Tickets, times and info: (941) 625-4175.

FEATURED EVENTS • Post Holiday Weight Loss Challenge, Jan. 7 – Apr. 10. A 12-week challenge for two-person teams. $30 per person includes: opening weigh-in dinner party and program on Jan. 7; free week at the fitness salon; weekly weigh-ins, awards reception at the end of the challenge. Top three teams with the highest percent of weight loss will split half the money raised. Register at Charlotte Cultural Center Fitness Salon, 2280 Aaron St., Port Charlotte. (941) 625-4175 ext. 263.

CC Jazz Society presents Arnie Krakowsky with Amanda Carr at The Culture Center of Charlotte County, 2280 Aaron St., Port Charlotte starting at 7 p.m. To learn more. call (941) 766-9422 or visit www.ccjazz.org.

27

• Lifestyles after 50 Fun Fest, Jan. 10 – 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Robarts Arena, Sarasota. Live music, free health screenings, information, prizes and more. Free adm. 1-888-670-0040.

Join Us For Our Feb. 2013 Edition!

Helping Hands

12

• R.S.V.P. (Retired & Senior Volunteer Program): (941) 613-2299.

• Meals on Wheels/Friendship Cafe Dining Sites: (941) 255-0723.

• Elder Helpline of Southwest Florida: 1-800-398-4233.

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Senior Centers and Resources

Charlotte Symphony Orchestra Jazz Ensemble and Taste of the Village, 6 – 8 p.m.

Music and Dancing in Center court along with the “flavors” of the Village Eateries! (941) 575-3067.

21

Jazz Jam Session Sponsored by the CC Jazz Society. Join in or just listen at the Port Charlotte Golf Club, 22400 Gleneagles Terrace, Port Charlotte. For info, call (941) 766-9422 or visit their website at www.ccjazz.org.

• Let’s Go Fishing! Weds. evenings beginning Jan. 9, 7 – 9 p.m. A six week introductory course in Florida Fishing for beginning anglers. Topics include fishing techniques, tackle selection, rigging, lures, cast nets, fish identification, regulations and more. Register by calling (941) 637-1655.

Fishermen’s Village Fine Arts & Crafts show, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Info: (352) 344-0657.

Jazz It Up!

It’s Heart Month!

• Senior Friendship Centers: (941) 255-0723 or friendshipcenters.org.

• Senior Choices of Southwest Florida: 1-866-413-5337 or srchoices.org.

• O.C.E.A.N. (Our Charlotte Elder Affairs Network): (941) 235-4500 or ocean-fl.org.

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Home, Health & Wealth Showcase, 10 a.m.

– 6 p.m. Meet with leaders in the industry for personal estate planning, wellness and home repair/beautification.

Fishermen’s Village is on the waterfront in Punta Gorda. Call (941) 575-3007 for details.

Charlotte County!

Call for Special Rates and Marketing Packages for the Best of Charlotte County!

888-670-0040

Lifestyles After 50 Is Your Connection To The Seniors Of Charlotte County Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 10

Veterans Corner

NEED HELP NAVIGATING MEDICARE?

U.S. Veteran Charities: Beyond Lip Service SEAL Team 6 Author Discusses Value of Legit Nonprofits

W

ith the war in Afghanistan set to end in 2014, and the Iraq war having ended two years ago, charities that help veterans and their families may be busier than ever— but without the public awareness generated by an ongoing conflict.

Support for the war effort in Afghanistan is on par with the unpopular Vietnam War during the early 1970s, according to a recent Associated Press-GfK poll; only 27 percent of Americans support the effort in Afghanistan. A fundamental difference between then and now, however, is Americans’ nearly unanimous support of U.S. troops, says J. L. Narmi, author of SEAL Team 6, bin Laden and Beyond.

“The vitriol expressed toward our Vietnam veterans by many was disgusting, but I think we learned from that injustice, and most Americans think the troops deserve much more support than they’re getting,” says Narmi, who comes from a military family.

All proceeds from his book sales will go to support veterans’ charities.

“The problem is that funding, whether it’s through government or private charities, doesn’t match the expressed support,” he says. “And I worry that will only get worse as these soldiers move out of the public eye and try to take up peace-time lives.”

Narmi cites some good resources for Americans looking for quality charities that support the troops: • The Wounded Warrior Project (woundedwarriorproject.org): With advances in protective gear and life-saving medical technology, fewer troops are coming home in coffins than in previous wars, but more are coming back with lifelong injury. This charity seeks to foster a generation of well-adjusted

wounded service members, and to raise public awareness about their needs and how fellow military men and women can help each other.

• The Navy SEAL Foundation (navyseal foundation.org): As detailed in Narmi’s novel, SEALs are among the most physically and mentally talented individuals in the world. But they, along with their families, endure enormous stressors, many of which are never discussed due to the nature of their duties. This charity supports these elite warriors and their families.

• Charity Navigator (charitynavigator.org): Whether or not you think you know about the legitimacy of a charitable organization, it doesn’t hurt to take a few minutes to verify an organization’s status.

This site is widely recognized by investigative reporters to be a reliable resource in reporting a nonprofit’s activity. The above two groups, in which Narmi has donated money, have been verified via Charity Navigator.

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Still not sure? …Skepticism is understandable. It seems the more we hear or read about charities, the more we learn that we shouldn’t simply take their word for how donations will be spent.

Media coverage spotlights those outlier groups that are clearly fraudulent; however, most charitable organizations are absolutely streamlined, with workers donating their time or receiving a minimal wage. It has never been easier to verify a charity’s reputation.

“If everyone who said they support the troops gave just a modest amount to help a veteran who has risked his or her life for our freedom, we would come across far fewer tragedies on the news about vet-related joblessness, homelessness and suicide,” he says.

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 11

Television Acoustics Breakthrough

Six Hidden Benefits of Exercise

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hysically, when you find you can no longer climb stairs or walk easily from the car to the mall door, it’s time to look to exercise. Otherwise, “It’s possible to find yourself getting into a downward spiral of less and less physical activity,” writes Dr. Miriam Stoppard in her book Defying Age. The benefits of exercise go far beyond how your clothes fit and keeping major diseases like high blood pressure and heart disease at bay.

These six hidden benefits of exercise go a long way toward keeping your body, mind and spirit younger longer.

With regular physical exercise, you will…

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produces younger looking, more blemish-free skin: “The increase in circulation and perspiration that occurs with exercise delivers more nutrients to your skin while allowing impurities and waste to be removed,” says Dr. Eudene Harry, author of Live Younger in 8 Simple Steps. “The result? A healthier complexion!”

Feel great! Physical

activity releases endorphins, the brain chemicals that boost your mood and make you feel happy.

They relieve stress and enhance your self-esteem and self-confidence. Exercise has also been shown to increase neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which give the body a natural high and promote better sleep.

Any type of physical activity increases the rate at which antibodies flow through the blood stream, resulting in better immunity against sickness. The increased temperature generated during moderate exercise makes it difficult for certain infectious organisms to survive.

Eat well! Exercise controls your 80312

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f there is one thing people like to argue about… it’s television. Even if they can agree what to watch, most people disagree about the volume. That’s because most people require different volume levels, in order to understand and enjoy their favorite shows and movies. What’s more, if one of them is doing something else, like reading or sleeping– the last thing they want to hear is a blaring television.

When forced to compromise and listen to TV at the same volume– everyone loses.

Now, thanks to innovative digital audio technology, anyone can listen to the TV at the volume they desire without disturbing others. Best of all… the audio is so spectacular you’ll want to use it all the time. Here are a few reasons why the PTLS is the best thing to happen to television since the remote.

Look good! Exercise

appetite, according to Dr. Stoppard.

We have an appestat in our brains, which is a switch that tells us when we’re full and should stop eating.

Exercise turns it on (stop eating!).

Another effect of exercise is that the muscles tell the brain what they need—and it won’t be fat and sugar. Rather, burning calories will send you toward vitamin-rich fruits and veggies and complex carbs.

Think clearly! Scientists believe

that exercise is good for the brain by enhancing the heart’s function, which means there’s a richer supply of blood for your memory and mental function.

Stand tall! In your 20s, you stood

erect; in your 60s, if you stand tall, straighten your shoulders and hold your head up, you can take ten years off your age because back, neck, abdominal and pelvic muscles are toned and strong.

Dr. Stoppard also says that erect posture is protection against developing backache, digestive problems and heart disease. An erect spine means lungs work more efficiently and the feet are steadier.

Just like your mother told you, stand up straight.

Be constipated? Heavens, no!

Exercise increases the contractions of the wall of the intestine, helping to move things along through the intestinal tract more easily and decreasing the time it takes to pass through the large intestine.

Dr. Harry advises waiting an hour or two after eating before exerting yourself since exercising too soon after a meal can divert blood flow away from the gut and toward the muscles, weakening peristaltic contractions (and slowing down the digestion process).

Dr. Harry includes the usual caveat for exercising: Talk to your doctor and do not overdo exercising or you won’t see all of these benefits. And research shows that asking a friend to join you in an exercise program increases socialization, a key factor in overall wellbeing and feelings of optimism.

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Refractive Lensectomy Permanently Improves Vision in Patients Over 45

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eople visit our practice looking for ways to improve their vision. Sometimes this simply requires getting a prescription for glasses; but many times patients are looking for a way to permanently improve their vision without depending on glasses or contacts.

Younger people may choose to have iLASIK, which changes the shape of their cornea. However, as we age, the lens inside of our eye loses its ability to focus both near and far. So someone over 45 may choose a procedure called a Refractive Lensectomy, which corrects nearsightedness or farsightedness by replacing the eye’s natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens that has the correct power for the eye to see well. Presbyopia, a progressive condition typically requiring individuals over 40 to use reading glasses, can be corrected using a multifocal ReSTOR lens which allows them to see at all distances.

Refractive lensectomy uses the same techniques as bladeless laser cataract surgery with the LenSx laser, which Dr. Frantz introduced to southwest Florida in May 2012.

Insurance does not cover refractive lensectomy as it is considered an elective procedure. We can discuss out-of-pocket charges and flexible payment plans when you visit our office for your evaluation.

To make an appointment online, visit www.bettervision.net or call Frantz EyeCare at (239) 418-0999.

Jonathan M. Frantz, MD, FACS, is named in Best Doctors in America and The Guide to America’s Top Ophthalmologists. He and his team of doctors at Frantz EyeCare offer a broad spectrum of patient-focused comprehensive care from eye exams and eyewear to bladeless laser cataract removal, treatment of eye diseases, bladeless iLASIK, and eyelid surgery with offices in Fort Myers, Naples, Cape Coral, Punta Gorda, and Lehigh Acres.

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When Does A Loved One Need Help?

BY CHARLES M. COSTELLO Certified Senior Advisor and founder of Senior Companion Care, LLC

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our checklist should include the following observations:

Appearance and hygiene – Consider oral care and trimmed nails, haircuts and grooming, clean clothes, and dressing appropriately for weather or the occasion.

Physical health – Monitor symptoms of chronic diseases such as diabetes, arthritis, emphysema or high blood pressure. Be alert to sudden weight gain or loss, incontinence or fatigue.

Also pay attention to vision or hearing problems, bad breath, swollen feet or limping. All may be indications of a more serious health issue.

Medication and Nutrition – Are vitamins and medications administered as prescribed? Are special dietary needs being managed? Do they regularly receive fresh, nutritious meals.

Household Safety – Are the home and yard clean and well-maintained?

Are handrails needed in the bathroom?

Smoke alarms and security systems working properly? Is the loved one protected from phone or door-to-door fraud?

Social Life – Are they engaged with senior centers or church and communicating with friends and family?

Financial Affairs – Are insurance policies, bank accounts, and routine bills being managed properly?

Easy-to-use checklists for assessing a senior’s need for assistance at home Mental health – Make note of are available free from Senior Comdepression, anxiety or psychosis. panion Care, LLC. Just call or send Look for forgetfulness and wandering, email to Charles M. Costello, Certimood swings and diminished interest fied Senior Advisor, (239) 689-4286 Lifestyles: 1/4 page (4.9167” x 4.8056”) in communicating. or Charles@scc-florida.com.

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Five Ways to Help Avoid Caregiver Burnout E

lder Care Expert A. Michael Bloom offers these practical coping strategies for the 60 million American family caregivers to recharge their energy while avoiding burnout, and he notes that “the life you save may be your own.”

1. Put chocolate in your pill box.

Caregivers rarely provide themselves with rewards that release stress.

Determine your special “chocolate” (which is a metaphor for something that provides ultimate joy) and dose yourself regularly so you create enduring satisfaction and success during the long journey of care.

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ruce Paul, owner of Mobility Medic, does not want to see people left behind because of a medical condition that has placed limitations on their ability to be mobile. His company provides mobility equipment to keep people moving while providing for quality of life.

Mobility Medic is proud of its attention to personalized, caring service for each and every one of its clients. Staff provides in-home service as well as service at their showroom/repair

center. They sell (at discounted prices), repair and rent most brands of scooters, power wheelchairs, lift chairs and standard wheelchairs. They install car lifts, stair lifts and ramps both modular and portable) as well as install grab bars and tub lifts in the home.

Please call Mobility Medic at (239) 223-3728, fax # (239) 541-1018 for info and hours. Email address is mobilitymedic@comcast.net. You can also visit them on Facebook.

2. Get those stressful thoughts out of your head and say YES to requests for support. Set a 5 – 10 minute time block at least once per week to deal with your stress. Make a list of all the issues rolling through your mind. Put

the items on paper and make plans to address them. When a friend or family member asks how they can help, be prepared with this list of tasks that others can perform to lighten your load.

3. Schedule regular breaks.

Seek assistance from friends, relatives or volunteers so you take a class, go to the gym, go on a date with your partner or enjoy other fun recreational activities.

4. Use High Tech to Deliver High Touch. Free, easy-to-navigate systems to build support networks can be found at seniorcaresociety.com. Through these online communities, family caregivers can post vital medical and support information, use an online calendar to schedule volunteer assistance for activities/appointments and send updates with just the click of a button.

5. Low Tech Packs a Punch, Too. Old school options such as calendars, post-it-notes and dry erase boards are just as effective. Create an information binder for family, friends and volunteers so vital medical and support needs are at their fingertips.

For caregivers who are serious about exploring ways to recharge your caregiving energy now, learn more or take a Free Caregiving Burnout Risk Assessment by visiting bloomforcoach.com.

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What To Know About Eye Diseases And Diabetes

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ore than 18 million people in the United States suffer from diabetes, a disease that impairs your body’s ability to regulate blood sugar. When a person’s blood sugar is out of control, their lenses will swell, causing nearsightedness. For this reason, it is generally recommended that your prescription for corrective lenses be changed only when your blood sugar is under control.

Proactive Care Helps Prevent Diabetic Retinopathy

People with diabetes increase their chances of lifelong good vision when they control their blood glucose and see a Retina Specialist regularly. For the past 27 years, Dorothy Parkinson has maintained a disciplined approach to her diabetic condition. “By taking good care of myself, I help prevent my diabetic retinopathy from getting worse, she says.

Dr. Sunil Malkani, Retina Specialist, explains retinopathy “as a condition that damages the tiny blood vessels in the back of the eye that nourish the retina. This tissue is responsible for capturing light and relaying information to your brain.” Dorothy describes this condition as having spots in your vision that are blurry.

“It’s like looking through a windshield with water spots that never go away.”

Adds Dr. Malkani, “An eye exam is often the only way to diagnose changes in the vessels of your eyes,” That is why regular exams are extremely important.

Frequently Asked Questions About Diabetes and Eye Disease Q. What is diabetic retinopathy?

A."Diabetic retinopathy is a condition in which high blood sugar causes a weakening of the blood vessels that supply the retina,” explains Sunil M. Malkani, M.D., Retina Specialist.

This weakening causes the blood vessels to swell and form balloon-like sacs that may leak or hemorrhage.

Q. What are the warning signs?

A. Diabetic retinopathy is usually silent, however some people experience: • Blurred vision • Vision that worsens, improves, and then worsens again • Sudden loss of vision, • Seeing "cobwebs" or "spots" Q. How is diabetic retinopathy treated?

A. Laser surgery may be used to seal leaking vessels. If the vitreous is clouded with blood, a vitrectomy must be performed whereby the clouded or diseased vitreous is removed and replaced with a clear artificial solution.

Sometimes painless injections are also needed to treat the abnormal vessels in the retina.

Sunil M. Malkani M.D., a fellowship trained retina specialist, treats patients at Malkani Retina Center with three locations throughout Southwest Florida. During your appointment, he will take into consideration your age, medical history, lifestyle and overall retinal health so he can provide you with the best possible treatment options.

Dr. Malkani, a renowned vitreoretinal specialist, is a graduate of Wake Forest School of Medicine and a former Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology at the University of Florida. His surgical expertise includes treating Diabetic Retinopathy, Macular Degeneration, Retinal Detachments, Macular Holes, Epiretinal Membranes and other diseases of the retina.

He is currently involved in Macular Degeneration and Diabetic Retinopathy Research and has had his work published in many Sunil M. Malkani, M.D. ophthalmic journals and presented at the American Academy of Vitreoretinal Diseases & Surgery.

Ophthalmology as well as other national conferences.

Malkani Retina Center’s Fort Myers’ office is located at 9201 Cypress Lake Drive. Their Naples office is at 875 105th Avenue North and the Punta Gorda office is located at 2825 Tamiami Trail, Building B, Suite #1. For additional information or to schedule an appointment, please call (239) 324-4888 (Lee and Collier Counties) or (941) 404-4606 (Charlotte County), or visit them online at www.mrcmd.com.

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 19

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Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 20

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Work Longer—But How? And Where?

BY EVELYN MACKEY

F

loridians shopping at their neighborhood Publix grocery store are aware of the diversity of ages in the employees. “Not many folks can say that they have four different generations working with and for them,” says Shannon Patten, Media & Community Relations Manager at Publix headquarters in Lakeland. “We hire associates as young as 14 years of age and our eldest, active associate is 96 years young.”

She continues, “We find that mature workers come to Publix looking for a second career at a place where they can interact and give back to their communities. Our associates, regardless of age, recognize our family-oriented values and find our track record appealing—in our 82 year history, we’ve never had a lay-off.”

That is not true in many companies today, even though 75 percent of Americans 50 and older expect to work well into the traditional period of retirement—many because they must, and others by choice.

Not every company is able to adapt its workplace and job descriptions to accommodate older workers like Publix can. Frank McVay, a registered nurse with WellStar Health Systems in Marrietta, Georgia, thought he would work into his seventies. Nursing, his second career, was his dream. Injured on the job four years ago, Frank called it quits last year when 12-hour shifts and lifting and moving heavy patients became too much. “I just couldn’t keep up with the demands of the job,” he says. He was 58 years old.

His story proves nothing is easy.

Despite expectations, people continue to retire early—at age 64 for men; 62 for women. For occupations involving work that is physically demanding and mentally taxing, it’s

even earlier. Most nurses, for example, retire at age 55, fully 40 percent of them for health reasons.

Karen Mathews, the Director of Work Life Services for WellStar’s 12,000 employees, says she sees too many Franks: “Some of our best people are aging out of the jobs we rely on for quality service.” WellStar’s nurses average 42 years of age, and that’s a big group heading into retirement at the same time that an aging population will increase demand for health services.

According to Spiva, the company estimates that replacing an experienced nurse costs between $75,000 and $100,000. “So yes,” she says, “we’d like to hang on to the older worker.”

What companies do Harley-Davidson has a gym at its Menomonee Falls, Wis., factory where workers get exercise routines tailored to their jobs. The company also has trainers ready to ice down inflammations between shifts at one of its engine plants.

To avoid the early retirement of key workers, some employers have redesigned work areas to minimize kneeling or awkward twisting of muscles and joints. Others have gone even further. Duke Energy Corp. offers a special stretching program for its line technicians (people who make repairs on power lines) before they start a shift. That’s a skill requiring about eight years of training. And right now, the average age of line technicians at Duke Energy is 50 to 55.

Shannon Patton of Publix cites camaraderie, stability and great benefits for having over 25 percent of their workforce composed of associates 50 and over (of 153,500 associates).

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 21

Winter In Wonderland– O

Great Vacation Ideas

ptions abound for taking exciting winter vacations, whether to mild or snowy climates. Here’s a roundup of ideas to take advantage of.

Yellowstone on Skis for five days of cross-country ski trails (from $1,995) Winter Wolf Discovery (from $705) Winter in Wonderland park exploration (from $1,385)

Getaway Packages and Adventure Packages have different options and prices. Info at 1-307-344-7311 or 866-439-7375 or on their website at YellowstoneNationalParkLodges.com.

Yellowstone “Lodging & Learning” The Yellowstone Association Institute (YAI) offers five “Lodging and Learning” sessions in the winter. Sponsored in part by the Yellowstone National Park Lodges and Xanterra Parks & Resorts (the managing company of park lodging, restaurants and activities), vacation packages offer accommodations in either Old Faithful Snow Lodge or Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel.

Rick Hoeninghausen, a director for the program, says, “Our wildlife viewing, cross-country skiing and geology all stand alone as worldclass, but combined they create an unparalleled experience.”

Each program includes accommodations, some meals and a “Snow Card” good for 10 percent off meals, in-park transportation, tours, ski shop services and most retail items.

Some Lodging & Learning package components vary based on location.

Choose from the following:

Old Faithful Winter Expedition (from $1,075/per person/double) Winter Wildlife Expedition for the wildlife observers (from $665) Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 22

The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, Alberta, Canada

Dragon (“Gum Lung”) It takes a team of over 100 men and women from the martial arts group White Crane to carry this dragon throughout the streets of San Francisco.

For info, go to chineseparade.com and make your reservations today!

If you want winter with everything taken care of in grand style, book a winter escape to The Fairmont Banff Springs with genuine Rocky Mountain adventure. Spend your day snowshoeing on top of the world in magnificent Banff National Park or dogsledding in the wilderness of the Canadian Rockies. Then escape to the ultimate in comfort and relaxation at The Fairmont Banff Springs resort.

Travel

Chinese New Year Parade One of the top 10 parades in the world, this year over 100 units will participate in the Chinese New Year Parade in San Francisco on February 23, 2013. A San Francisco tradition since just after the Gold Rush, the parade continues to delight and entertain the many people who come to watch it on the street (or buy bleacher seats on the parade route). Now sponsored by Southwest Airlines, it is one of the few remaining night illuminated parades in the country.

Nowhere in the world will you see a lunar new year parade with more gorgeous floats, elaborate costumes, ferocious lions, exploding firecrackers, and of course the newly crowned Miss Chinatown U.S.A. and her court.

One entry loved by everyone is the spectacular 268-foot-long Golden

Luxury in the Canadian Rockies

Rodeo San Antonio Dig out the cowboy hat, shine the belt buckle and put on those boots that were made for walkin’ as you head for the mild weather in San Antonio and the annual Stock Show and Rodeo Feb. 7 through 24. You’ll find a roster including 21 rodeo performances, star-studded entertainment as well as a Cowboy Golf Classic, a Texas BBQ Cookoff, and the Go Rodeo Ball.

All of the Rodeo staples are included: Grand Entry, Saddle Bronc Riding, Tie-Down Roping, Barrel Racing, Bullriding, Calf Scramble, Steer Wrestling and Mutton Bustin’.

Get all the details and order event tickets online at sarodeo.com.

Originally built in 1888 and modelled after a Scottish castle, the hotel has constructed its own upscale version of a mineral pool infused with healing salts from thermal waters in Europe. There’s also an outdoor heated pool and jacuzzi.

The hotel offers choices from cozy rooms tucked away in quiet corners of the castle all the way to spacious suites with panoramic mountain views. The Fairmont Banff Springs hotel’s Willow Stream Spa is considered the most deluxe spa in the Canadian Rockies. The spa can be a place to spend your days in indoor luxury relaxation or combined with days outside in vigorous activities.

No hurry! Winter lasts several more months in Banff.

See package prices at fairmont.com/ banff-springs.

Money DOES Grow On Trees I f you’re wondering about adding some landscaping to your property this winter, consider these facts, because it’s possible that money really DOES grow on trees.

Landscaping can add between 7 and 15 percent to a home’s value. Mature trees can bring a recovery value of 100 to 200 percent at selling time. (Kitchen remodeling brings a 75 to 125 percent recovery rate, bathroom remodeling a 20 to 120 percent recovery rate, and the addition of a swimming pool a 20 to 50 percent recovery rate.)

Landscaping can reduce temperatures by as much as 9 degrees Fahrenheit and can lower air conditioning costs by up to 50 percent by shading the windows and wall of a home.

Trees can reduce bothersome noise by up to 50 percent and can mask unwanted noises with pleasant sounds.

How much does landscaping add if you’re planning to sell your house?

• Manicured, fancy gardens which will require time and money to tend usually won’t add to the offering price. (Landscaping like that is for your own enjoyment.) It may be a $40,000 investment, but it won’t add $40,000 to the value of your house.

The same goes for expensive fences and stone walls. They look nice, but buyers don’t pay up for them.

• A house with no landscaping is unappealing. Conversely, you don’t have to spend a fortune on plants, either. Just keep it “typical with the neighborhood” say realtors.

• Curb appeal. “A good first appearance on a home can add as much as 5 percent to 10 percent to the value of the home,” says John Aust, of the National Association of Real Estate Appraisers. “Homes in a neighborhood tend to vary about 10 percent from house to house, assuming all other things are the same.” Welllandscaped yards with mature trees and bushes that provide privacy not only fetch higher prices—they sell more quickly than houses with little or no landscaping, by impressing buyers before they even walk into a house.

• Shape unsightly or overgrown trees and shrubs. Regardless of the season, it’s a good idea to tackle any overlooked pruning chores because nothing says neglect like a bunch of dead branches. The idea is to show how well not only your house but your garden has been maintained.

Information from Gallup, Money magazine, American Public Power Association and Society of Real Estate Appraisers, frontdoor.com and bankrate.com).

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increase in number by about 90 percent. A national survey of retired professional women found that most of those who were still on the job were not in financial need and were primarily motivated by a love of their work.

Info from Sloan Center on Aging & Work, Boston College, Sept. 2012.

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he 1963 Corvette convertible in the picture is owned by Clayton LaBounty. He bought the car in ’72 and drives it about 1,000 miles a year since it is just one of six vehicles he owns.

Left to right in the photo: members of the Red Hot Chili Peppers Car Club and what they remember about 1963.

John Cassetta was working at Bethlehem Steel Shipyards in Quincy, Mass.

He remembers hearing about the assassination of JFK on his car radio.

Clayton LaBounty was in Greensboro, North Carolina, working in a Ford garage in 1963. Ted Deily was on the high seas most of the year aboard the

destroyer USS Eversol. Dewey Wilhelms was working for Bell Telephone company. He recalls that he was in an underground splicing center when his co-workers told him JFK had been shot. Richard Granger was in the U.S. Army stationed in Ft. Jackson, SC. Club information at (239) 574-8041.

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Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 25

sz

FREE INFORMATION SERVICE Lifestyles After 50

BRIDGE BITES

From The American Contract Bridge League

for information please return completed form to:

News Connection USA, Inc. • P.O. Box 278 • Laurel FL 34272-0278

Name:

BY BRIAN GUNNELL

Address: City:

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E-mail: o Single o Married o Are you a Group Leader?

Please contact me by: o Mail o Phone o E-mail SEND INFORMATION ON AREA(S) CHECKED BELOW HOUSING OPTIONS AUTOMOBILES: o Sales, Maintenance and Repairs o Independent o Assisted Living PERSONAL HEALTH: o Senior Apartment o Hospitals o Continuing Care/LifeCare o Physicians FINANCIAL/ LAW: o Dentists o Reverse Mortgages o Eye Care o Retirement planning o Alternative Health o Trusts o Weight Loss o Estate planning o Pharmacies o Funeral Planning o Home Health o Elder Law o Prescription Drugs o Hearing HOME IMPROVEMENTS: o Spas/Gym o Sunrooms o Medical Supplies o Pools/spas o Contractor LEISURE TIME: o Home Modifications o Golf o Biking o Home Security Systems o Theater o Flea Markets RESIDENTIAL LIVING: o Consignment/Thrift Shopping o RV Resort o Jewelry o Apartments o Recreational Vehicles o Villa/Condo/Single Family o Gambling o Golf Community o Pet Supplies/Services INSURANCE: TRAVEL: o Medicare o Cruises o Land Tours o Health o Hotels/ Resorts o Long-term care o Local Attractions o Auto o Home o Getaway Packages o Life OTHER: SW

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When you complete this form and mail it back, your name will be entered to win a $25 gift certficate to Home Depot.

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Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 26

P

erhaps East should have tried 5♦ over 4♠; that would be a cheap sacrifice if 4♠ is making. Instead, she guesses to defend and must find a nice defensive play if she is to justify her shyness in the bidding.

You are that shy East, so try looking at only the N-E hands. West leads the ♦K, won by Declarer’s Ace. A Diamond is ruffed in Dummy, followed by a Spade to Declarer’s Ace. Then a Club to Dummy’s Jack and your Queen. What next?

At this point, you cannot play a Club or a Diamond without blowing a trick, so you must shift to a Heart.

Which Heart? It seems routine to play a low Heart, but let’s stop and think.

Voices for Kids of Southwest Florida

We’ve Got You Surrounded

If Declarer has the ♥K it won’t matter what you do, so let’s assume that West has the King. If West has the ♥J to go along with that King, then you can shift to any old Heart; again, it won’t matter. So the case to worry about is the one you see looking at all four hands.

Look what happens if you shift to a low Heart. Dummy plays low, West must play the King, losing to the Ace. That’s only one Heart loser for Declarer. The required shift is the Heart Ten! Your Ten and Eight have Dummy’s Nine “surrounded” and that’s what makes the surprising shift to the Ten the winning play. The Ten is covered by the Jack, King and Ace, after which East’s Q8 sits over Dummy’s 92, providing two Heart tricks for the defense.

Surrounding plays don’t happen every day, and are easy to miss in the heat of battle. But now that you are an expert on the subject you will no doubt spot this one right away:

East’s J9 surrounds Dummy’s Ten and it is a shift to the Jack which is the winning play, picking up the whole suit.

Visit acbl.org for more about the fascinating game of bridge or email marketing@acbl.org. To find a bridge club in Florida, go to district9acbl. org/D9Clubsmap.htm. Bridge article provided courtesy of St. Petersburg Bridge Club: www.stpetebridge.org.

www.VoicesForKids.org

Speak Up for a Child! Be a Guardian ad Litem Child Advocate!

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and Visit www.twitter.com/ MaturLifeStyles or click the Facebook icon on lifestylesafter50fl.com for the latest news, contests and fun events in your area.

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If You’re So Smart, Prove It! Back & Forth

Determine the pair of words associated with each pair of clues.

One word in each pair is the other one spelled backwards. (Answers are upside down at the bottom.)

Example: brief sleep, used on a stove Answer: nap, pan 1. big swallow, a stopper 2. firearms, tight 3. mouth excretion, pointed ends 4. cooking container, child’s toy 5. smack, friends 6. foot movements, home animals 7. pierce, cave dwellers 8. roadside barrier, fibber 9. clothing, boast 10. strong taste, insect 1. gulp, plug 2. guns, snug 3. spit, tips 4. pot, top 5. slap, pals 6. step, pets 7. stab, bats 8. rail, liar 9. garb, brag 10. tang, gnat

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Word Search January

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?

Last Month’s Answers

December Sudoku Sidney Bobb is last month’s winner!

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Win Great Prizes!

New winner selected each month

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Jan. Sudoku

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

Send your answers along with your name, address and telephone number to: NEWS CONNECTION USA, INC. P.O. BOX 638, SEFFNER, FL 33583

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Word Search Answers From

December

Send your answers along with your name, address and telephone number to: NEWS CONNECTION USA, INC. P.O. BOX 638, SEFFNER, FL 33583

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

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Carol Mason is last month’s winner!

Congratulations!

MYSTERY PRIZE!

(Puzzles must be received by Jan. 21, 2013.)

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 27

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 4119 SEEKING CHRISTIAN GENTLEMAN Former airline stewardess and 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. Florida.

MEN SEEKING WOMEN 4195 JOSEPH, 78 YEAR OLD MAN widowed 6.2 ft., 185 lbs. My interests are travel, music, opera, dining out,

many interests in internet reading of all history here and international.

4197 SINGLE GENTLEMAN SEEKING LADY 30 – 60 years who enjoys life, travel, pool, spa, fishing, companionship. Send recent photos, interests, personal information, so our dreams can come true. Will respond discreetly, confidentially. Cape Coral, Ft. Myers.

4201 DIVORCED WHITE MALE, 66, on life’s last adventure, seeks SWF on SSI to accompany me. Must be: NS, C, SD, HWP, looking for LTR. Has no cats or children at home. Photo and email are necessary. Lee County.

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

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SENIORS GETTING TOGETHER Personal Ad Placement

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

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Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 28

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.

MEET OTHER SENIORS Over 2,000 seniors have met through Seniors Getting Together. Send in your ad today!

American Legion Post 38

Lunches served Mon. through Fri., 11a.m. – 1 p.m. Lunch specials: • Wing night Weds., 5 – 7 p.m.

• Dinner Friday nights, 5 – 7 p.m.

• Breakfast Sundays, 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Location 1857 Jackson St., Downtown Ft. Myers.

Florida Birding Trips

C

heck out the birds this month: Wed., Jan. 23, 8 a.m.

Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge (west of Daytona Beach).

Birding trips take place on the fourth Wednesday of every month through April. Meet at the parking lot closest to the ponds.

Spacecoast Birding and Wildlife Festival Wed., Jan. 23, to Mon, Jan. 28 at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, Fla. The 16th annual event is the largest birding and wildlife festival in the United States. The festival includes field trips to Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.

Creativity Equals Longevity R

ecent studies at Purdue University have found that openness (mental flexibility, a willingness to entertain new ideas and creativity) is good for your health in general. But to improve your survival rate, you need to focus on the creativity element.

In a sample of older men, only greater creativity predicted longer survival, demonstrating its protective role even at an advanced age. Creative people tend to be less stressed when presented with an emotional or physical problem because they see it as a challenge to be overcome rather than an unyielding obstacle.

From Scientific American, September 9, 2012.

Last Month’s Answers

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Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 29

���������Insurance Goofs— Discounts �����TheDealer �Road ��to�Riches � ������������������

For Mature Drivers

so there is a 69 percent chance that the dealer does not have a blackjack. Add to that you are sitting on one ten-point ear Mark: I was recently playcard, and with a quick scan of the ing blackjack at one of Detroit’s table, you will probably note additioncasinos, and I was dealt a blackjack al ten-point cards; consequently, the with the dealer showing an ace. I chances now become even greater than opted not to take “even money” as 69 percent that the dealer doesn’t posI had always thought you shouldn’t sess one. Therefore, Suzanne, based on take insurance. After checking her the 3 to 2 payoff that you receive for a hole card and turning over a face card for a dealer blackjack, the dealer blackjack, even if you possess a snapper, you will make more money over told me I was wrong, that it was not the long run by never taking insurance the same as insurance, that it was or even money. Suzanne 1, Dealer 0. free money. Was the dealer correct?

As to your second question, when Also, I recently had another situyour dealer’s handicraft at dealing cards ation and wonder if what I did was falters, the dealer is not the one who correct. Playing blackjack again, settles any squabble. All authoritative the dealer inadvertently pulled two moves are made by a pit boss. Now, cards and dealt them both to the first switching hats and speaking as a former player. She called over the pit boss pit boss, my decision would have who proceeded to give the top (first) duplicated the one you received. That card to the first player, burned the is not to say that different pit bosses second card and then had the dealer Takedealing Yourthe Class continue rest of Online! the hands, couldn’t render contrary conclusions.

All the same, giving everyone at the including heratown.

Theleisure, pit boss 24 thenhours • Study your a day, 7 days a toweek. table the opportunity withdraw their gave everyone at the table the option • Simply read the course materials online and then answer wagers was something I always did. of playing their hand or pulling back Further, on your second question, questions. their abetfew andquiz folding their hand. The an 18classes against a or facelisten card will dealer showed face card.toEveryone • There is ano need attend boring to NOT make you a long-term winner at at thelong table,lectures. except me, pulled back. blackjack; so, you actually should I had a hard 18. I figured that was • After completion, of course we willpulled issue a state-certifi have your bet. Even a 19 ed will a decent hand and gambled I’d more often thancompany win when the cate for Iyou to What turn intolose your insurance to have certifi a chance to win. didn’t. dealer’s upcard is a 10 or an ace.

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Next time a pit bull playing gambling Safety referee corrects Florida Department of Highway a dealer gaff you When I pitched cards, it amazed & Motor Vehicle Approved Courseand gives this same opportunity, yank your me how many players jumped on the bet. The House 1, Suzanne 0. opportunity of taking even money, or insurance, when I showed an ace.

Gambling Wisdom of the Week: Except for counting cards, making “Retirement is like a long vacation either of these wagers is fiscally not a in Las Vegas. The goal is to enjoy sound move, even if, as in your case, it the fullest, but not so fully that being dealt a blackjack. The reason being, Suzanne, ten-point cards (10, J, you run out of money.” —Jonathan Q, K) make up 31 percent of the deck, Clements. (SENIOR WIRE)

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New Books Art f you got “too soon old” without learning to be a great artist, here’s help. The Wrinklies’ Guide to Drawing: New Pursuits for Old Hands by Richard Pomfret is a an easy-to-follow manual to help mature readers exercise their brains and try something new.

The book begins with basic drawing techniques and advice on materials and goes on to cover drawing landscapes, animals, cartoons and still life.

Other “Wrinklies” easy guide books include The Wrinklies Guide to Gardening, The Wrinklies Guide to Home Computing and The Wrinklies Guide to Keeping Supple.

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iPads AARP’s book iPad: Tech to Connect takes the complex little flat-screen iPad and teaches how to tap, swipe and pinch to get places. Then it shows and tells how to download apps and connect with friends before advising on ways to protect and secure the little machine. Large text and clear visuals make the book easy to use.

Caregiving Dr. Ruth’s Guide for the Alzheimer’s Caregiver by Dr. Ruth Westheimer is the author’s simple, straightforward message for caregivers: You are not alone. The book includes resources, strategies, tips, tricks and attitudes to create the most

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supportive environment possible for both patient and caregiver. She deals with behavior management, home safety, doctor interaction and facilities.

Computers The easiest way to get what you want from your computer is to use The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Using Your Computer—for Seniors. This book is packed with what a beginner needs to know to get started in every aspect of computers. It is written to be understood and is full of practical, easy tips and instructions.

Money If you now have time to learn money management, you might like Managing Retirement Wealth, An Expert Guide to Personal Portfolio Management in Good Times and Bad by Julie Jason.

The author is a portfolio manager who includes real-life scenarios, rewards, risks and direction for a variety of investments. The book is written to help retirees establish a system to get on course and stay on course with goals.

{ { Book Giveaway!

We’re giving these books away!

Email your name, mailing address, phone number and the title of the book you are interested in winning to janice@lifestylesafter50.com (subject: Book Giveaway) or send by snail mail to Attn: Book Giveaway, News Connection USA, Inc., P.O. Box 638, Seffner, FL 33583. We will draw a name for each of the five books on Jan. 22. Winners will be announced in our February issue.

& H E A LT H F A I R

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Learn how to make your investments work for you

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Discover great travel opportunities

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Search out ideal retirement living choices

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Health, recreation, fitness, and much more

H E A LT H T E S T I N G S & SCREENINGS Free “Educational Seminars” Hourly Drawings & Door Prizes 2 Full Days of Great Entertainment

Tuesday & Wednesday January 8 & 9 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

HARBORSIDE EVENT CENTER (Downtown Fort Myers, corner Monroe Street & Edwards Drive)

F R E E A D M I S S I O N & PA R K I N G

AT CITY GARAGE ONLY

S P O N S O R E D B Y:

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 31