Mature Lifestyles Southwest July. 2011

Happy Birthday Marilyn Monroe VOLUME 22, NUMBER 7

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Fun Close to Home

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

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SOUTHWEST

JULY 2011

Mature Lifestyles • July 2011 • page 2

Marilyn Monroe Tells Her Story

BY TRACIE SCHMIDT

Y

ears ago, she serenaded the President; now it’s her turn.

Marilyn Monroe—actress, singer, model—would have celebrated her 85th birthday last month.

While the pop-culture icon quickly rose to fame and spent most of her adult life in the limelight, her personal life was very different from her screen persona. Affected by a troubled childhood, she yearned to be accepted for who she was. The events that led up to her untimely death at 36—suicide or accidental overdose—are still a mystery. But if she could come back for one more night, what would she say to her audience?

Marilyn: Forever Blonde is an award-winning one-woman play that gives Monroe the chance to tell her story in her own words. Actress Sunny Thompson takes on the role, and with music and quotes from the

actress’ life, brings the As an acting project it star back for an intimate interested Thompson, but evening on stage. she was hesitant to play the “It’s a real rollercoaster role herself. “What woman ride,” says Thompson, in her right mind would “There’s comedy, little want to be compared with serious observations, Marilyn Monroe!” she said. poignant things, ‘aha’ Nonetheless, her performoments—the whole mance and her uncanny thing is really a gift for resemblance to the famous an actress to play.” actress made her a shoo-in for Sunny Thompson’s the part. I asked her what it first experience with took to prepare for the role.

Monroe was seeing “I spent 14 months in her movies as a child. research,” she said. “Every “I loved all musicals, person that comes up in the not just Marilyn’s— play—Joe DiMaggio, for Actress Sunny Thompson there was Fred Astaire, example—you have to know as Marilyn Monroe.

Ginger Rogers—all of your relationship to them.” those I loved, and that was my first All of Monroe’s mannerisms, from the experience with her,” she remembered. way she walked and spoke to the way Thompson was a singer and dancer she dressed and did her makeup—had in Las Vegas when her husband came to be spot-on. Thompson even sought to her with the script for the show, coaching by Jimmy James, a famous asking her to read a few scenes.

Monroe impersonator from New York.

Taking on the personality of Monroe was another challenge.

“She went from high to low in a second. She’d say something like, ‘Gosh, it’s wonderful isn’t it?’ then, “Life’s just a chore.” She’d go from zero to 90 just like that—and you see it in her movies and in her acting,” Thompson said.

Thompson revealed two sides to Monroe; she was terrified of fame, but at the same time, believed that if she could become the most famous woman in the world, she could have the love and affection that she so craved. I asked Thompson what struck her most about the actress.

“How terribly funny she was,” she replied. “She could be depressed, but she always saw the bright side of things.

Very much so—and she needed to laugh—it was a survival thing for her.”

Marilyn: Forever Blonde is playing at the Asolo Theatre in Sarasota through July 10. For tickets or more information, call (941) 351-9010.

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Mature Lifestyles • July 2011 • page 3

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

watched assistants strap David in and do their safety check. I heard “Just take two or three steps and sit down.” hen the grandkids Imagine the scene. He was come, it may be standing harnessed and attached time for you to clip in and to the cable at the top of a ten-foot “zip” off with them on the square bright green platform which all-new Screamin’ Gator Zip Line at Gatorland in Janice Doyle, was tilted at a 30 degree angle.

Editor Across the lower edge of said tilted Kissimmee. Even without platform there was nothing but air grandkids, zipping along at 25 miles and tree tops. Without a backward per hour through tree tops sounds look, he took two steps, sat down pretty cool. Or . . . downright stupid?

I’m not one to miss a new adventure, in his harness and . . . off he went.

Then I was at the top of the green so off my husband David and I went. tilted platform being safety inspected With tree tops and gators and big

by Josh as he hooked my own harness crocodiles below, we did indeed straps and carabiners to the pulley. zip line 1,200 feet between towers I said to myself, “They wouldn’t which stand several stories tall. let you up here if wasn’t safe.”

Zip lines owners take perfectly good “Take two steps and sit down,” money from people willing to be Josh said. I couldn’t retreat—going thrust off into thin air. That’s the economics. Here’s the physics: You move back down the steps would be too hard on my knees. So, two steps forward by gravity while wearing a down a platform with nothing to stop harness that is attached by belts and a me and I sat down in the harness. pulley to steel cables strung between It was awesome! I soared over tree towers. But it’s way more than an tops to Tower Two. Next I zipped economics and physics lesson!! over a pool where 30 gators sunned I first smelled trouble when we themselves. Then it was on to “de climbed several flights of wooden Nile” over gigantic African crocodiles. stairs to get to the top of the tower The highest and longest section of for launching. The second clue to cable traverses Gatorland’s breeding the truth of the situation was when I

Dear Readers,

W

built in Belfast as an awe-inspiring man-made structure. The new building and visitor attraction is ast month I visited being built right beside the Northern Ireland, birthhistoric site of the actual place of my grandparents Titanic’s construction. The on my father’s side. Finding six-story building is shaped St. Malchys in the heart like three ship’s bows and of Belfast—the church will comprise nine galleries where my grandmother was which focus on the educabaptized in 1877—made tion of the social history, the Irish in me feel real. industrial development I thought of the hardships and engineering advanceshe and her family went ments then and now. through and what hopes Publisher, Kathy Beck, The new museum will they had for coming to outside of St. Malchy’s. open in April 2012.

America in the early 1900s.

I am proud of my Irish heritage It made me think about our freedom and that more people will have the and what our ancestors endured for us opportunity to visit this new attraction to have a better life here in America.

The city of Belfast with its rich histo- and learn more about Belfast and ry is opening the doors for a new icon, Northern Ireland. I feel lucky!

To learn more about “Titanic Belfast,” the “Titanic Belfast.” It is a tribute to go to www.gotobelfast.com.

100 years ago when the Titanic was

Finding My Heritage

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Mature Lifestyles • July 2011 • page 4

Lee, Collier & Charlotte Published monthly by News Connection U.S.A., Inc.

David Lalmond and Janice Doyle soar over the treetops.

marsh. My calm abandoned me temporarily when I took the first of 83 carefully counted steps over a bridge connecting towers 4 and 5.

Feet on two narrow boards, hands on cables on both sides and safety strap linked to a cable above.

Finally (when I wasn’t scared any more) David and I were connected to parallel cables to “race” to the last tower over a peaceful pond with nary a gator is in sight.

Luke, the zip line expert who trained the adventure staff, said, “The oldest person I’ve ever taken on a zip line was 86. We take care of the safety, but we can’t create the desire. That has to come with the person.”

You decide for yourself. Are you willing to hook yourself to a pulley on a cable suspended in mid-air and hurtle safely out into space?

If your answer is yes, and if you’re willing to pay a perfectly good $70 for the thrill of being so hurtled, put in your reservation at gatorland. com or call 800-393-JAWS. Look at it this way. It’s truly a grand adventure, and if nothing else, your grandkids will think you’re the coolest thing going!

S

hare your memories of Elvis in 50 words or less.

Send (with subject line: Elvis) to Janice@srmagazine.com or to News Connection USA, Inc., P.O. Box 638, Seffner, FL 33583.

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 Lee/Collier and Charlotte Counties – Southwest Edition Associate Publisher: Dave Kelly: (239) 823-3542 Sarasota/Manatee Edition Dave Tarantul Advertising Information: (941) 375-6260

Lake/Marion & Sumter 1-888-670-0040 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

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Hillsborough Pinellas/Pasco County: Counties: Hillsborough Edition Suncoast Edition

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

Magazines are out by the 7th of each month.

All rights reserved.

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

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irst Fridays Art Walk in the downtown Fort Myers River District. 6-10 p.m. Tour art galleries and businesses. Free trolley service every 30 min. “After Party” from 10 to closing at Spirits of Bacchus.

Volunteers welcome. For more information, visit fortmyersartwalk.com.

T

hird Saturdays Fort Myers Music Walk begins at 7 p.m. Live music at over a dozen venues. Information at fortmyersmusicwalk.com.

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hrough August 6 Gallery Show at Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Ft. Myers.

Call (239) 939-2787.

7

through Aug. 13 Annie plays at the Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre in both matinee and evening performances. 1380 Colonial Drive, Fort Myers. Tickets: (239) 278-4422.

9

Tropical Dinner Dance at Tony Rotino Senior Center, 5817 Driftwood Pkwy., Cape Coral. 6 to 10 p.m. BYOB. $20/person. Reservations required at (239) 574-0807.

10

Luau anniversary celebration by The Calendar Girls for the Paws for Patriots program.

At The Dog Bar & Grille, 3522 Del Prado Blvd., Cape Coral. 3 to 7 p.m. Calendar Girls performance at 5 p.m. For more info about the group, call (239) 850-6010.

11

Peace River and Hunter Creek Estuary Bird Rookery Kayak Tour with GAEA Guides. 2 – 5 p.m.

Punta Gorda. All equipment provided and your guide is a Certified Florida Master Naturalist. $40/person. Many tours to choose from. Info and reservations: (239) 694-5513.

12

Plumeria and Desert Rose Seminar at Lee County Extension Office, 3406 Palm Beach Blvd., Fort Myers. 1 – 3:40 p.m. $8/person. Pay at the door. To register, please call (239) 533-7514.

15

Free Ice Cream Social to celebrate Parks & Recreation Month at the Lake Kennedy Senior Center in Cape Coral. 1 to 3 p.m. Call (239) 574-0575 for information.

19

“The Bird Sisters” by Rebecca Rasmussen book discussion at Lakes Library, 921 SW 39th Ter., Cape Coral. 2 to 3 p.m. Register online. Information at (239) 533-4500.

21

– August 28 “Run For Your Wife,” the story of a man with two lives (and wives) who suddenly has to explain it all. At the Off Broadway Palm Theatre. Show: $25. Dinner theatre: $46. Matinees: $42. Tickets and more info at (239) 278-4422.

26

A Midsummer Night’s Sing, an evening of music and fellowship to help feed the hungry presented at First Presbyterian Church, 2438 Second St., Fort Myers, at 7 p.m.

Bring cash donations and cans of food to benefit The Soup Kitchen of Community Cooperative Ministries (CCMI). For information, call (239) 334-2261 or visit fpcfortmyers.org

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and 31 MangoMania Tropical Fruit Fair, 2101 Pine Island Road at the German-American Social Club. Contact: (239) 283-0888.

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

Enjoy the Magic of Horses

Experience the magic of Arabian Nights on a day trip with the Kennedy Kruisers to Orlando. Arabian Nights is a palace of horses, a story of Scheherazade and a Broadway-style show on horseback all rolled into one. Enjoy the air conditioned ride to Orlando, dinner and the show for $74/member or $79/non-members.

Register at (239) 574-0575.

Mature Lifestyles • July 2011 • page 5

Patriotic Duo Brings Betsy Ross and Ben Franklin Back To Life

BY BILL STOKES

A

merican heroes Benjamin Franklin and Betsy Ross never lived together, but their present-day impersonators do.

Tavares residents Jeffry Gay and his wife, Connie, met at a high school drama festival in Massachusetts, again the next year at Salem College in Massachusetts and married six years later. They moved to Central Florida and their signature show, MurderWatch Mystery Theatre, was produced at Walt Disney World for 20 years.

The couple’s business, Dreamland Productions, is a traveling theatrical troupe that interacts with dinner theatre or various group audiences far and wide.

Several years ago, Jeffry looked at himself in the bathroom mirror and exclaimed in horror, “God, I’m getting old! I look like Benjamin Franklin!“ Voila—the character was born! Now, Jeffry transforms himself in one-man performances into the printer, inventor and statesman.

His wife, Connie, produces “Tea with Betsy Ross” in her own solo program as the legendary flag maker. She runs music and sound effects for Jeff’s appearances; he is at the board when Connie is the performer. In a matinee enjoyed recently at Lakes of Leesburg, B. Franklin circulated among his audience of 100 residents, chronicling his life, family, friends and enemies made throughout his 84 years.

Humor, drama and poignancy unquestionably brought Jeffry’s rendition of B. Franklin’s humanity home to his audience. Perhaps best known for his experiments with the nature of electricity, B. Franklin also invented swim fins, medical catheters and, in 1736, organized Philadelphia’s first volunteer fire department. Franklin also invented a more heat-efficient Mature Lifestyles • July 2011 • page 6

stove (named after him) and because he felt it would help improve society, refused to accept a patent. Moreover, he promoted environmental improvements and published – Born Boston, Jan. 17, 1706.

“Poor Richard’s – At 12, apprenticed in brother’s Almanac” under printing shop. an assumed name.

– Wrote first article for brother’s newspaper, Mr. Franklin signed it “Mistress Silence Dogwood.” served in such au– Opens own printing shop in Philadelphia. gust political bodies – Married Deborah Read; starts “fire insurance” program. as the Second Con– Writes and publishes “Poor Richard’s Almanac.” tinental Congress.

– Invents Franklin stove which works better He was ambassador than fireplaces to heat homes. to France, helped – Begins experiments with electricity. Invents lightning draft the Declaration of Independence and rod to protect homes from catching fire. was one of its signers. In 1790, only two – Becomes postmaster for all 13 colonies. Invents months before his death, he wrote a treaodometer to measure distance between routes. tise advocating the abolition of slavery.

– Helps write the Declaration of Independence.

Jeffry Gay as Jeff as Ben Franklin scattered laugh- Invents bifocals.

Ben Franklin provoking zingers throughout his talk, – Helps write the U.S. Constitution. (above) and notably in his explanation of inventing Connie Gay – Dies at 84; over 20,000 bifocal eyeglasses: “I was enjoying a as Betsy Ross people attend his funeral. book during a voyage to England. My (bottom right).

Source: AAA Going Places mission was to represent Pennsylvania /March-April in its fight with descendants of the Penn Connie confesses family over who should represent the Colony. I found I couldn’t see the horizon she cries at points during her interpretation of Betsy Ross, without changing my spectacles. Think“and,” she said, “some of my audience sheds ing it would be easier to have two-lens eyeglasses—one for distance and another a tear, too.” Such is the degree to which this couple’s audiences become involved. for near sight—I invented bifocals.” Jeff MurderWatch Mystery Theatre is a crowd asked for a show of hands from those wearing his innovation. Many hands went pleaser after 20 years, in which group or dinner theatre audiences are ensnared in up. “Ben” quipped, “You’re welcome!” a staged whodunit and follow clues to find the “real” perpetrator. All Dreamland The Rebirth Of Betsy Ross Productions’ shows are scripted, but are Connie Gay continues: “Our clients open enough for performers to ad-lib an began requesting another character to aside with the audience or to take advantage complement Jeff’s Ben Franklin. A close of an unexpected situation. Since all friend of mine had, years ago, taught me productions are enhanced by music, sound to cut a five-pointed star from folded effects and props, set-up takes several hours paper, so Betsy Ross seemed a natural.” for a one-hour show. Props are originals She has two versions of her oneor replicates the couple has acquired hour show: One with full sound and through the years of perfecting their arts. projected photographs, and another A telephone call to (352) 508-5523 or a visit online to www.murderwatch. more intimate presentation featuring com will bring an envelope of informative, colorful brochures explaining the a full service afternoon tea party. She wide scope of Dreamland Productions’ interactive offerings. All their shows enjoys the latter because it allows her are available for hire by communities, clubs, restaurants and hotels. (WSS) more interaction with her audiences.

Ben Franklin Fun Facts

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

Veterans Corner

Veterans Conquer a Mountain at All Ages

BY JORDAN SCHUPBACH

F

or 25 years, the National Disabled Veterans Winter Sport Clinic has been helping Veterans find adventure in the mountains of Colorado.

And for 25 years, Florida resident Clinton Hale has experienced it.

Hale, 62, has been a participant in the Winter Sports Clinic every year since its inception in 1987. “Early on it was just a few of us…maybe 50. Now, it’s huge!” he says.

Hale makes the journey to Snowmass from Florida each year, eagerly waiting his turn to hit the slopes.

He’s learned a lot during his various Clinics, like the wisdom of waiting inside where it’s warm instead of standing in line in the snow for his gear. When it comes to ski equipment, he prefers the monoski because “it looks cool,” but for him, the trip to the mountains each year isn’t just about the skiing.

“When I come here, I make it a goal to impart some of the lessons I learned in life to some of the new guys,” he says. “And I learn from them, too. They know things that I’m still trying to figure out.”

He certainly has some life lessons to offer. Hale entered the Air Force as a Combat Controller in 1966, and in 1983, he injured his back while on a training exercise.

“Life has inherent risks. You just deal with them as they come.”

At an event with participants whose military service spans from World War II to the current conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, “new guys” doesn’t just mean “young guys” at the Winter Sports Clinic. One first-timer is Frank Kozel, an 88 year-old WWII Veteran. Kozel, who was injured on a reconnaissance mission during the War, made the trip from Cleveland. Some might

question why an 88 year-old would strap himself into a ski apparatus and hurl himself down a mountain. Kozel’s answer is simple: “I believe that every day, you should do something that you fear—it keeps you young.”

The Winter Sports Clinic has been a source of motivation and encouragement for both Kozel and Hale. “My first trip here, I learned that I can do anything I set my mind to do,” said Hale. For him, that means working, staying active and helping to raise funds for his Florida team to come each year.

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Veteran Clinton Hale on a sit-ski.

That also means skiing with a broken leg. “I broke it trying to ski on my own the first year that the Winter Sports Clinic was at Snowmass,” he says with a laugh. “They put a cast on it and I was skiing again the next day.”

The Winter Sports Clinic has seen many changes over the years. And after 25 years, what’s the best thing about the Winter Sports Clinic? “The camaraderie,” says Hale without hesitation. “I have developed some great friendships. I love to see some of the old-timers and make new friends.

It’s like a family here, it really is.”

That’s what keeps Hale coming back, and what drives him to spread the word to other veterans who are eligible to attend. His message to them is simple: “Get out here! You just don’t know what you’re missing.

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Mature Lifestyles • July 2011 • page 7

Tin Can Sailors Get the Crew Back Together

BY TRACIE SCHMIDT

“O

nce you’re in there and you’re operating them, they’re all called ‘tin cans.’ I remember a lot of cartoons that had a sailor riding a tin can like he’s riding a bronco,” retired Navy veteran Bob Schwartz joked.

The ‘tin cans’ are U.S. Navy destroyers— heavily armed and armored warships that were used to defend carrier ships during World War II and other military operations.

“You usually had four destroyers— tin cans—around a carrier, battleship or cruiser for protection. Our job was to take the torpedoes so they wouldn’t hit the carrier ships, which were full of men, women and supplies.” Schwartz explained. “That was our function— rescue and running interference so the big ships wouldn’t get damaged.”

He had a chance to see a lot of the world and meet new comrades in service. 53 years later, Schwartz and three of his friends decided to start the “Tin Can Sailors” group to bring other veterans together.

“I have about 80 members now,” Schwartz said. “I started it to see how many WWII, Korea and Vietnam veterans we had Bob Schwartz (at the podium) with General Wisecup and the Tin Can Sailors. out there. A lot of these guys, all retired, served 21 to 28 years. I Schwartz was a diesel engineer on a was on board with one guy, Joe tin can during the latter part of World Rex—we hadn’t seen each other for War II, and while he was fortunate 50 years.” The two of them now run a enough not to be caught in the heavy poker game at their monthly meetings. fighting, he provided rescue for A typical meeting usually involves a downed pilots at sea via whaleboat and speaker, lunch and a card game or two, took ships into foreign ports for repair. but mostly it’s an excuse to get the “I joined the Navy at 16 years old, crew back together for a few tall tales. got out in 1950, and then I did four “We usually have a bull session more years of Reserve. I’ve been in where we tell sea stories and lie the Pacific, through the Canal and and all that,” he laughed. “We into Norfolk, and at the island of were a very tight group. I don’t Vieques on mock invasions and so care where you go, if a guy was on forth,” Schwartz described his travels. a tin can, we would melt and gel

together. We were rough riders on the high seas, let me tell you.”

Every now and then a high-ranking U.S. Naval officer will make an appearance as a guest speaker— Schwartz and the other Tin Can Sailors invite the public in to share their stories. Funds raised from these meetings have been donated by the group to children’s charities.

Schwartz says that the group is planning visits from speakers like Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff – Admiral Mullen, and Chief of Naval Operations – Admiral Roughead, in the near future.

“Anybody that’s been in the Navy, on tin cans, DDS or DES, we welcome them as well as anybody who just wants to come in for a meeting and see what we’re doing,” Schwartz said.

Monthly meetings are held at the American Legion Post 159, 1770 East Venice Avenue, Venice. For more information, or to join the Tin Can Sailors, call (941) 497-1050.

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Mature Lifestyles • July 2011 • page 8

tirement Community. One of Shell Point’s experienced retirement counselors will explain the numerous benefits recieved when becoming a resident at Shell Point.

The meetings will be held at 10 a.m. in the Game Room, located in The Woodlands neighborhood, on the following dates: July 13, 19 and 27, and Aug. 2, 10, 16, 24 and 30.

of the island community, model units in The Woodlands and Eagles Preserve, as well as information on the many amenities that are available to residents. Admission to is free; however, seating is limited, so reservations are required and may be made by calling (239) 466-1131 or 1-800-780-1131.

Landscape Photography Contest T

he Ted Todd Insurance Agency is holding a photo contest to capture the beauty and essence of the local beaches and scenery.

The contest is open to both amateur and professional photographers, and the grand prize winner will receive an Apple iPad 2 and will be recognized for their work. All digital photo submissions should be 300 dpi or higher resolution, include the name

of the location, and be submitted by e-mail to photos@tedtoddins. com no later than July 15, 2011.

Selected finalists will have their photos posted to their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ TedToddInsurance and the public will vote from July 16 to July 24, 2011.

For contest information, contact Heather Daugherty at (239) 561-1100 or e-mail photos@tedtoddins.com.

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God Bless You!

BY JIM MCDEVITT

S

SUMMER CELEBRATION FIREWORKS EXTRAVAGANZA! Saturday, July 30th 7:05 PM - Hammond Stadium Fireworks Following The Game!

Box Seats are $9.50 General Admission Seats are $7.50

ooner or later, everyone sneezes.

People who hear you sneeze, even in a public place, often automatically ask God to bless you even though they may not know you. They may not even like you.

Ever since I can remember, everyone in my vicinity has been saying “God bless you” when I sneeze. I have no clue how this tradition started but I do know I have said “God bless you” all my life to anyone I hear sneezing. It was just the right thing to do, like holding a door open for a lady. Heck, when I was a cop and arrested someone I would say, “God bless you” if the perpetrator sneezed while I was putting him in handcuffs.

Humor

Join Us For Happy Hour Fridays From 6-7 PM At Friday home games (except July 1st), relax with $1.00 beer and soda, as well as FREE hot dogs. Enjoy a great night out with family and friends!

GREAT TICKETS AVAILABLE! Box Seats - $8.50 General Admission - $6.50 Senior discounts also available.

Fireworks games are $9.50 for box seats and $7.50 for General Admission seats.

Buy tickets on-line at www.miraclebaseball.com

For more information, call 239-768-4210

Buy One Regular Priced Ticket, Get One Half Off! Offer available for Miracle home games in July, 2011 (not valid on July 1st, 3rd and 30th.) Only good for Miracle home games at Hammond Stadium. May not be combined with any other offer. mls-sl 0711

Mature Lifestyles • July 2011 • page 10

Here’s the thing though.

Lately I’ve noticed my wife only gives me one “God bless you” when I sneeze. Sometimes I sneeze four or five times in a row, but I only get one “God bless you.” When did it become fashionable to limit these blessings? Is there some kind of limit on blessings I don’t know about? I’m tempted to say “God bless me,” out loud to make sure I get all my God blesses. If my wife starts sneezing one sneeze after the other, I keep my blessings coming. I don’t have a limit.

I was taught if a person is sneezing, you just keep those blessings coming until they stop sneezing. If my dog sneezes, I say “God bless you.”

To find out more about these blessings, I did some internet research.

Here is what I found out. There are several possible explanations for this tradition. In Eastern Asia, as early as 1000 B.C., there was a belief that a sneeze was a sign someone was talking about you at that very moment. One sneeze meant something being said about you was good, while two sneezes meant something bad was said. I

have discounted this belief because it would mean someone like President Obama would be sneezing all day long, since someone somewhere is always talking about him night and day and he’s not sneezing like that.

In Polish tradition, there was a belief that your mother-in-law was talking about you if you sneezed.

No explanation was provided if your mother-in-law sneezed. In Pakistan, there is a superstition that if a man sneezes, his wife is thinking fondly of him. I guess if you’re single, it’s just a sneeze. In Christian circles, some attribute the saying, “God bless you” to Pope Gregory the Great (540 – 604 A.D.) who became Pope at the start of the plague. I understand he started blessing people when they sneezed in the hope, no doubt, that they weren’t coming down with the plague.

Current science says each sneeze can send 40,000 droplets flying around to spread disease to anyone within reach. Current advice to sneezers is not to use your hands to cover your sneeze, but to use your arms. They say using your hands means you will spread those 40,000 droplets all day long over anything you touch.

The best advice I have is that if you are flying and seated next to someone who is sneezing, you should have a blanket handy and throw it over their head and say, “God bless you.”

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Seniors Look Forward To Games In Kissimmee “W

e weren’t the biggest, but we were told often that we were the best run games in the state,” declares Randy Fisher, athletics supervisor for the city of Kissimmee’s parks and recreation department.

Not at all shy about his enthusiasm for the event, Fisher is one of the chief architects putting building blocks in place for the return of the state-sanctioned Senior Games to Kissimmee and Osceola County, September 10 – 17.

Interest is high and things are taking shape quite nicely, according to Fisher. He has fielded upwards of 30 calls a week about the event since it was announced in March.

Those calls are coming from seniors throughout the state and from various retirement communities.

Most of the callers want to know about the events and how to register, which will officially open after the

Independence Day holiday. Other callers have said: “Thanks for bringing it back” and “It’s about time.”

Such comments confirm what Fisher came to realize in 1993 when the concept of the games was first introduced as part of a statewide initiative from the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness. Fisher knew then and now that seniors want and

actively participate in carefully structured athletic activities.

He’s been at the front line of offering those activities. For 13 straight years beginning in October 1994, he helped coordinate the activities that would attract hundreds of athletes to the Kissimmee-St. Cloud Senior Games. During that period, Fisher estimates more than 7000 seniors made the trek to Kissimmee to compete in events such as archery, billiards, swimming, basketball shooting, bowling, horseshoes, track and field, shuffleboard, golf, cycling, race walking, 5k run, pickle ball, tennis, table tennis and more.

That was before the economic downturn forced budget cuts and a three-year suspension of the games.

Now, the event is poised for a triumphant return, thanks to a goldmedal team Fisher says is committed to bringing the glory back to the

Kissimmee-St. Cloud Senior Games.

The team includes elements of Osceola County government, the city of St. Cloud, the town of Celebration as well as the Good Samaritan Village and the Osceola County Council on Aging.

Together, they’re putting together a week-long slate of competitions that will be jointly promoted by the city of Kissimmee and the Kissimmee Convention & Visitors Bureau, Osceola County’s tourism promotion department.

Information on the events and how to register will be available on www.

Kissimmeeparks.org as well as on www.SRGames and VisitKissimmee. com. Callers may also get more information at (407) 518-2504.

All qualifiers at the Kissimmee-St. Cloud Senior Games will be eligible to compete at the Florida State Senior Games Championship, to be held in Polk County, December 3 – 11.

GET GAMES IN THE

Kissimmee/St. Cloud Senior Games September 10-17 Compete in 23 events. Bring your friends and family along to cheer you on and enjoy the fun of attractions and activities in Kissimmee.

For more information or to request a registration form, please call 407.518.2504 or see SRGames.VisitKissimmee.com.

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Mature Lifestyles • July 2011 • page 12

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Monthly rate plans do not include government taxes or assessment surcharges. Prices and fees subject to change. 1We will refund the full price of the Jitterbug phone if it is returned within 30 days of purchase in like-new condition. We will also refund your first monthly service charge if you have less than 30 minutes of usage.

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Mature Lifestyles • July 2011 • page 13

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on your case How We’re Helping Seniors Protect Themselves from Fraud

Hurricane Season Security

A

s we enter the 2011 Hurricane Season, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office encourages residents to prepare early for the possibility of a devastating storm and to know in advance what you can do to keep from becoming a victim of fraud once the storm has passed.

1. Shop prospective contractors in case you need someone to repair your roof, pool cage or home. Early research with the Department of Business Regulations and the Better Business Bureau on a company’s track record can save you from making a big financial mistake during an emergency.

2. Gather all of your medical records and property insurance papers, immunization records and other important documents and place them in a rugged, weatherproof container or send copies to a family member who lives outside of the area for safekeeping.

Mature Lifestyles • July 2011 • page 14

3. Plan ahead and be extra prepared if you have a relative or friend who has special needs. Check early for hurricane shelters that meet their needs.

4. Establish an out-of-town phone number with family and friends to relay messages about your whereabouts and safety after the storm.

5. Put shutters, window and door protection in place when instructed by local weather and law enforcement officials. Do not put them up too soon due to safety and fire hazards.

6. Begin creating your hurricane emergency kit. Have at least 3 to 5 days of food and water per person, along with other important items such as a flashlight, can opener, battery-operated radio or television and a corded phone.

To learn more, contact your Crime Prevention Specialist to arrange for them to come out and talk to your group or neighborhood: (239) 477-1400.

When is the Right Time for Cataract Surgery?

sensitivity to glare or the feeling of having a film over the eyes.

There is no proven method to cataract is a clouding prevent cataracts from forming. of the normally clear If your cataract develops to the lens within your eye, point that it affects your daily acwhich results in blurred tivities and even with prescription or distorted vision. lenses you are unable to see well No one knows exactly enough to do the things you want what causes cataracts, but to do, then you should have a it is known that a chemicataract evaluation to determine if cal change occurs within surgery is needed. During surgery, Dr. Jonathan your eye to cause the lens the eye’s natural lens is removed Frantz to become cloudy. This and replaced with an artificial lens. may be due to advancing age, heredity Medicare and most insurances or an injury or disease. Excessive cover the cost of cataract surgery. exposure to ultraviolet radiation in Jonathan M. Frantz, M.D., FACS, sunlight, cigarette smoking or the use is medical director of Florida Eye of certain medications are also risk Health and one of Southwest Florida’s factors for development of cataracts. leading cataract and LASIK surgeons.

Some indications that a cataract He has offices in Fort Myers, Cape may be forming include blurred Coral, Punta Gorda, Lehigh Acres or hazy vision, the appearance of and Naples. Call (239) 418-0999 spots in front of the eyes, increased or visit www.bettervision.net.

BY JONATHAN M. FRANTZ, M.D., FACS Frantz Cataract Center at Florida Eye Health

A

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Become part of the award-winning SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) program. You will help Medicare beneficiaries and their caregivers make informed decisions about Medicare and other health insurance issues, including prescription assistance programs. SHINE also provides assistance and information regarding long-term care insurance and planning.

SHINE is part of a nationwide network of state health insurance programs funded through grants from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the federal Medicare agency. SHINE is a program of the Florida Department of Elder Affairs in partnership with the Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida.

SHINE volunteers receive intensive training, provide individual counseling, education, and assistance at SHINE sites, via telephone and over the internet. Services are free, unbiased and confidential.

Volunteers also make educational presentations to community groups and participate in local health fairs, senior fairs and outreach events. Assignments are matched to the skills and interests of the volunteers, empowering them to make a difference in the lives of elders and their caregivers.

To become a volunteer, you need to: ✸ Complete required SHINE training ✸ Be computer literate ✸ Be willing to serve at least 16 hours a month; and ✸ Not be affiliated with any insurance company, agency, product or service (including being licensed to sell insurance in Florida).

As a volunteer you will receive ongoing mentoring and support through the Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida, your local SHINE volunteer network, and the Florida Department of Elder Affairs. Join the SHINE team of volunteers, and make a real difference in the lives of elders in your community. Volunteer Trainer position also available. This is a non-paid position where you will be providing training to volunteers. For further information please contact the Elder Helpline at 1-800-963-5337.

To learn more, call the Elder Helpline at 1-800-963-5337.

Mature Lifestyles • July 2011 • page 15

Will Your Pet Be A Disaster Victim?

I

t’s that time of year Plan Ahead: again: hurricane Update the Information season. You peruse on Your Pet’s Collar the latest emergency or Micro-chip pamphlets and might Collars can become detached. even attend a hurA micro-chip is the best way for ricane seminar. You you both to be reunited should restock emergency you become separated. If you supplies, and because haven’t done that, contact your you’ve just returned vet. For a low cost micro-chip from walking Max, implant, check with your local you remember to Humane Society. If your pet throw in a couple of Jan Nieman and Sasha. already has a micro-chip but the cans of dog food and information is outdated (moved, diffigure Kitty can take care of herself in ferent phone, snowbird location, cell the home. You are ready! Or are you? phone number), contact the chip proRemember the poignant TV coverage vider (there are several) and update it. of Katrina’s helpless pets tied to porch posts as flood waters crept up the Prepare a Pet Disaster Kit steps? How about the photo of dogs Jot down items your pet will need waiting for rescue? Pets separated for five days. Pack enough food from families were helpless because and water in water-tight containers their owners hadn’t thought ahead (remember bowls). What goes in or cared enough to plan for them. must come out, which means litter Don’t let your pet become a statistic. boxes, plastic bags, pet scoopers

Home Care for Seniors by Seniors OUR LOVING, COMPASSIONATE CARING SENIORS ARE THERE TO HELP. There’s a huge difference in the kind of home care you can receive from someone who really understands what your life is like as a senior. The concerns you have. The need for independence. At Seniors Helping Seniors services our in-home providers are carefully matched with you to provide the best comfort, companionship and safety so you can maintain your independence and stay in your own home.

and paper toweling should be on your list. Bring your veterinarian’s phone number, medications, feeding schedule and rabies information.

Current photos and pet descriptions will help you and your pet reunite should you become separated. If you don’t own sturdy leashes, harnesses or carriers, purchase them now.

Perhaps a disaster occurs while you’re not home. Your pet may be fearful during the event and hide, so plan ahead by giving a trusted neighbor your key. She should be aware of your pet’s favorite hiding places, habits and where its leash and disaster kit are located. Agree on a time and location to meet later.

Find a Secure Place Ahead of Time Should you choose to remain in your home, keep your pet’s disaster kit in an easy-to-retrieve location.

If you decide to evacuate, don’t leave your pet tethered outside—it’s a death sentence. Check ahead for pet-friendly motels or a friend’s home. Many counties do not have emergency shelters that accept pets, and if they do, it’s likely you and your pet will be housed in separate areas.

If you think you’ll only be gone for a few hours, take your pet with you as you may not be allowed to return.

Don’t Wait Until a WeatherRelated Event Arrives If you’re not sure where to go, check your phone book or websites for pamphlets from your county’s hurricane preparedness guidelines, emergency management programs or local Humane Society or ASPCA.

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

BY JEFF GERSH

T

oday’s boomers are well-connected online, describe themselves as “full of life” and say retirement is a time to reinvent and discover themselves, according to Trilogy

by Shea Homes’ online survey of boomers. The survey drew over 85 percent of participants from Trilogy’s Facebook pages and Twitter feeds.

It also found boomers are not only focused on connecting with others and staying near loved ones but also on making a difference, and they are not slowing down anytime soon.

Boomers ranked traveling (58%), having a balanced lifestyle (51%), being more active (46%) and having more “me” time (46%) as priorities in retirement.

Having a home to support all of their passions also ranked high—boomers primarily want it to be easy to take care of (59%), followed by the foundation for a vibrant future (40%).

But making the leap to a new home is not always an easy decision, especially in the current economy with owners sometimes unable to get as much as desired for an existing home.

Though home sales may be down across the country 15 percent year over year, not every development or area is following this trend.

Sunshine and beautiful weather are limited, commanding higher prices for homes in areas like Florida.

Many boomers, including Terri and Ron Fraser, recent Trilogy homebuyers in the Orlando area, are putting a priority on living the active, engaged life they’ve always wanted.

“No one has the crystal ball to know when the best time is, but for us, we

did not want to put off living our life anymore. We wanted to be around people who are like us. We wanted to be involved in sports and doing lots of things culturally,” said Terri.

When choosing where to live, many boomers are actively pursuing plush amenities and benefits, but they should also consider how an active adult club will “feel” when all lots are sold. Active adult communities with established clubhouses or those currently being built out can also provide a good value, since they may have been able to obtain discounts on the land. Those that are just being planned may have to reduce club and home space to accommodate land costs and still compete on price.

When considering a new home, resale or staying with an existing

residence, boomers rank green features (which can save as much as 40 percent on energy usage) high on their list of priorities.

Today’s boomers are also considering factors many have not before—such as having a space for a home office—as many transition into retirement.

Boomers should ask themselves what is important in retirement: Location? Having access to amenities/ activities? Maintaining connectedness with family, friends, others? What do I want to be doing? How important is customizing my home? Have I always had a specific dream or ideal in mind?

All of these questions weigh in on determining the best environment to pursue one’s retirement dreams.

For info, contact jeff.gersh@ sheahomes.com, or see trilogylife.com.

‘Til Death Do You Part…

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

Linda Stern, “Singles, Couples Face Own Retirement Issues,” Reuters.com.

S

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

“Physical and Emotional Health of Older Couples Linked for Better or Worse, Study Finds,” Science Daily.

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Mature Lifestyles • July 2011 • page 17

July 2011

6

Key West Luncheon.

11 to 2 p.m. Seafood, Mojo pulled pork, Key Lime pie and more. $12. Tickets: (941) 625-4175, ext. 212.

The Best of Charlotte County

8

– 10 Christmas in July.

Largest summer craft show in the county. 9 – 4 p.m.

12

“Happy Travelers” Day Trip to Seminole Hard Rock Casino, $38.

Call (941) 625-4175, ext. 204.

20

Square Dancing.

7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. $3.50/person.

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

7

9 13 22

The GoldTones perform doo-wop music 5 – 9 p.m., Center Stage.

Independence Day! July Fun Events Near 4 Charlotte County

11

Open Mic Night presented by Peace River Center for Writers, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. July’s program will be a unique tribute to America and its veterans.

Michael Haymans, local attorney, poet and musician, will moderate this patriotic program and introduce local artists, musicians, veterans, and poets who will share their vision, reality, and experience of what it means to be an American. Free admission; public is invited to attend.

1200 West Retta Esplanade # 57A. Punta Gorda. Detais at (941) 639-8721.

FEATURED EVENTS • Muscle Car City’s Monthly Car Show. July 16 and every third Saturday. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 3811 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda.

Car show and musical entertainment. Free. For details, visit musclecarcity.net or call (941) 575-5959 • Peace River Audubon Society Field Trip. July 16 and every third Saturday. Explore birding destinations in southwest Florida and have fun with neighbors who share your interests. 7 a.m. Visit peaceriveraudubon.org/field_trips.htm or call (941) 613-6753.

• Downtown Punta Gorda Gallery Walk. July 21 and every third Thursday. 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. A lively gathering of artists and musicians plus shops and eateries in the charming Punta Gorda Historic District. Call (941) 639-3720 for more info.

• Flatsmasters Fishing Tournament. July 23. Start time, safe light, 6:30 – 7 a.m. Weigh in at 3:30 p.m., Harpoon Harry’s. Information: visit flatsmasters.com or contact Jerry Cleffi at (941) 628-0702.

Helping Hands Muttini Mingle, a Pawtastic Yappy Hour for people and their pets.

Presented by Salty Paws.

5:30 – 8 p.m. Live music

by Singer/Guitarist Paul Cottrell.

Happy

• 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.

Senior Centers and Resources

Join Us For Our Aug. 2011 Edition!

Continuing Education Opportunities

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

• Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida: (239) 652-6901 or aaaswfl.org.

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

• Charlotte County Council On Aging: (941) 627-2177 or charlottecoa.org.

Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7 – 9 p.m., Center Court.

Punta Gorda’s own, Jim Morris, performs trop rock music 5 – 9 p.m.

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

Charlotte County!

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

239-823-3542

Mature Lifestyles Is Your Connection To The Seniors Of Charlotte County Mature Lifestyles • July 2011 • page 18

The Life List: Ten Items All Caregivers Must Have

B

eing a caregiver can be one of the most challenging, complicated and rewarding jobs you’ll ever do.

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

you’re also reminded ahead of time to call the pharmacy for a refill.

Retirement Living

3. Good pill cutter. Depending on the prescription, you may have to cut pills in halves or quarters to get the right dosage.

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

2. Updated list of all medications.

Keep a list of all medications and their dosage information with you at all times. Take a current copy with you to every doctor’s appointment and keep a copy in every possible place where you may need it at a moment’s notice (or in case you leave the house without it by mistake) like your purse, coat pockets, and vehicles. Tack a copy by the phone and the patient’s bed for easy access.

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

always call for medical assistance before the problem becomes severe.

5. Latex or non-latex gloves. Gloves that are the right size are necessary to protect both the patient and the caregiver from harmful germs, and they can be used for protection in a variety of situations—from serving food to cleaning up messes.

6. Hydrogen peroxide. Peroxide is good for cleaning wounds, getting bloodstains out of clothing and bedding and being used like a mouthwash for mouth sores.

7. Rubbing alcohol. Now for the big guns! Alcohol is a wound sterilizer as well as a good cleaning agent for places like handrails and doorknobs.

8. Digital thermometer (with covers). Digital thermometers with plastic covers are fast, accurate, user-friendly and easy to read.

9. Good blood pressure monitor. There are plenty of fully automatic, accurate

digital machines available for purchase for in-home use. Look for versions that measure blood pressure correctly on the upper arm at heart level with readings given on a digital display.

10. Plenty of paperwork. You’ll need to have a calendar for organizing appointments, tests and a schedule of caregiving help. Keep a three-ring binder for storing medical test results and patient notes in one place. Have all pertinent phone numbers posted near every phone. The note that doesn’t get documented or the question that doesn’t get answered may be the one that gets you into the most trouble.

“While being a caregiver is one of the most challenging experiences of my life, it has also been one of the most rewarding,” Aldrich concludes. “Having the support and help of others who have been there can be a huge help. The peace of mind you’ll get from being prepared is one of the most precious gifts you can give yourself as a caregiver.”

Senior Friends Living a healthier lifestyle is easier when you have the support of like-minded people.

At H2U, that’s exactly what you’ll find – active, engaged members who never take good health for granted. Join H2U today, and you become part of this special group that enjoys:

Join the club!

Timely health and wellness information

An extensive health library

Print and online newsletters

Discounts from national and local sources

Quarterly magazine delivered to your home Interactive health tools

Invitations to hospital-sponsored activities An extensive calendar of events and activities to keep you active Special member rates for our indoor pool and rehab/fitness center

Membership has privileges...

For more information, please call

941-625-3164

3280 Tamiami Trail, suite 493 • Port Charlotte, FL 33952 www.FawcettHospital.com • www.H2U.com Mature Lifestyles • July 2011 • page 19

The Gift of Time is Priceless!

H

ave you heard the buzz words “time philanthropy”? This is the latest lingo for the word “Volunteerism.” But ask yourself—what does “group volunteerism” mean to you and how can you or a group you are a member of really make a difference locally in the lives of our seniors?

As you can see from the example below, all it takes is a little effort…

Over the past three years, alumni from the Notre Dame Club of SWFL have teamed up with Senior Friendship Centers and “adopted” various projects. Each year, this communityminded club has undertaken projects such as visiting our Adult Day Services program clients. Last year they painted and refurbished one of our Friendship Cafés/ Community Centers, and this year their volunteer commitment helped launch an exciting new program within the Nutrition Department in Lee County: “Friendship Food Bags.”

Through volunteerism and vision, this alumni group helped launch this small but significant food program for our area seniors. Friendship Food Bags were created in direct response to

the growing hunger and food insecurity that our local senior population continues to struggle against. Senior Friendship Centers will continue to coordinate this ongoing project and will be seeking volunteer local businesses who can offer to hold food drives each month and collect “senior friendly” food items. We will also be seeking volunteer groups (like our friends at the Notre Dame Alumni Club of SWFL) to assist with the delivery of these Friendship Food Bags. This is just one way that local volunteers can help resolve the senior hunger issues in the area.

So you see, time philanthropy is basically one person, one group and one agency combining efforts and time to make a huge impact to positively change the lives of our local seniors. If you or your group would be interested in local individual or group volunteer opportunities to meet the needs of our local seniors, please contact us at (239) 275-1881.

Submitted by: Kristina Rodriguez, Director of Nutrition & Community Engagement.

SAVE THE DAY!

September 17, 2011 “Run for the Ages” 5K Run/Walk—All Ages Location: Lover’s Key State Park 8700 Estero Boulevard, Ft. Myers Beach For additional information, please contact Eric Flusche at 239-275-1881 or e-mail eflusche@friendshipcenters.org

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Frequently Asked Long-Term Care Questions Q. Don’t people usually prefer to stay with family or in their own homes when they need care?

A. Of course it is preferred, and usually it is tried before anything else, but statistically, 69.9 percent of people move into assisted living facilities.

BY ROSEMARIE HURLEY, CSA Long-Term Care Insurance Specialist

Q

. When deciding how much insurance to buy, how many years will I need this?

A. According to some recently published statistics, the average stay in an assisted living facility is 21 months.

10 percent of people in nursing homes will stay there five years or longer.* As for staying at home with home care, unfortunately since it is so difficult to monitor, (family helping, agency hiring, etc.), there are no published stats.

Please keep in mind that the policies sold today are comprehensive. That means you can use them for a variety/ combination of services. Oftentimes, people begin care at home for a couple of years and then move to assisted living, and then usually go to a nursing home for very serious care. Using 5+ years of your policy is very easy to do, given that natural progression.

Q. What are the numbers of policy utilization between men and women?

A. There are over 1 million women currently in receiving a variety of care, versus only 400,000 men.** Even now, women are living longer than men, but with the new generation of seniors on the cusp, this stat is changing. More baby boomer women have had families and jobs, contributing to the stressors that their moms did not have, which is shifting the longevity numbers and evening the score for the future.

Q. Are there many assisted living

facilities to choose from?

A. There are currently 30,000 assisted living communities in the U.S.***

Depending on the circumstances that arise with living with family, and the added physical and emotional stress that can be involved, the outcomes can surprise most people. The demands of having to work, the extra living space and maintaining harmony in the home have much to do with the success of living with family. I will also mention that many people prefer having their own furniture, developing friends and enjoying a social life outside of the family. Sometimes the flexibility of maintaining independence goes a long way to make life as an older senior more satisfying and richer.

Of course, it depends on the person. *Medicare.gov **Dept. of Health and Human Services National Center for Health Statistics ***AALTCI.org

Rosemarie Hurley, President of Senior Insurance Solutions, has worked in the senior healthcare market for over 20 years. She is a Certified Senior Advisor and has been a Long-Term Care Insurance Specialist for more than 17 years. She is the Past President of Health Underwriters, a Past President of the Rotary Club of Estero, Member of the Bonita and Estero Chambers of Commerce, and a graduate of Toastmaster’s International. She represents all of the finest insurance companies in the industry. Can be reached at (239) 274-6678 in Estero, or at her website: www.longtermcareinsurance-online.com.

Planning for Long-Term Care is so important.

Learn all you can about something that can jeopardize the financial future of your entire family.

Rosemarie Hurley, CSA, has 16 years experience as a Long-Term Care Specialist.

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Men, Get To a Doctor!

T

imothy Vavra, D.O., of Loyola University Health recommends the following screenings for all men: • High blood pressure.

• Diabetes test every year with a fasting blood test.

• Cholesterol screening once every five years if normal, or more often if levels are borderline.

• Colorectal cancer every 10 years by colonoscopy, then a yearly fecal occult blood test (which can find blood in the stool) or, every five years, a fecal blood test combined with a sigmoidoscopy.

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

Skin Cancer Alert Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s

A

ccording to the American Cancer Society, this year alone, more than 68,100 new cases of melanoma are expected nationally. Precautions include avoiding sun exposure during midday hours, using sunscreen and avoiding tanning beds.

Early detection of melanoma can be found by following a simple ABCD assessment:

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

Border irregularity: The edges of a mole are ragged, notched or blurred.

Color: The pigmentation of a mole is not uniform, with variable colors of tan, brown or black.

Diameter: The mole is greater than six millimeters (the size of a pencil eraser).

I

f someone you love is showing several of these signs, talk to the doctor.

Healthy Brain

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

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

Mature Lifestyles • July 2011 • page 21

Stay Close to Home for Fun This Summer family and enjoy getting another room at a 50 percent discount.

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

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

Flip For Fun s there a Fountain of Youth? Find the spot where Ponce de Leon said he found the famed fountain an hour north of Orlando.

Start the day by making your own pancakes at the The Old Spanish Sugar Mill inside DeLeon Springs State Park Recreation Area. Right beside the headwaters of the Fountain of Youth, owners Peter and Marjorie Schwarze have been letting people cook their own breakfasts since 1961. You pour the batter, flip the cakes and choose your toppings—truly you can have it your way! Order lots of tasty sides, too.

I

Travel Since there’s often a long wait to get in, you can put your name on the list and take The Fountain of Youth Eco/ History Tour boat tour next door.

Narrated boat tours run from DeLeon Springs to Lake Woodruff in the Woodruff Federal Wildlife Refuge and operate 10 and 11 a.m. trips and 12 and 1 p.m. trips (minimum of 8 passengers must go). This is a great way to see the delicately preserved eco-system of the St. John’s River.

Also available here are kayaks, canoes and paddleboats to rent. Call (386) 837-5537 for the Eco-tour.

Mature Lifestyles • July 2011 • page 22

Orlando – After Hours!

Casual Elegance So you say you’ve “done Orlando”, Jupiter Beach eh? Experienced Disney, outlet Resort & Spa is ofmalls and the ubiquitous souvenir fering wonderful specials shops? But hey, we’re not kids this summer in Jupiter, Florida. anymore—so what’s there to Ah, the beach setting. For our daily do after the sun goes down? walk, we enjoyed stepping from As it turns out, the Orlando area the boardwalk and patio area is loaded with after-hours right to a tranquil stretch fun. For starters, there’s Jupiter Beach of beach. And one night the Sleuth’s Mystery Resort and Spa. we stretched out in one Dinner Theater on of the hammocks and International Drive listened to the waves in Orlando. At hitting the beach Sleuth’s, you step as we watched a into a world of full moon rise comedy where over the ocean. you become Dinner at the detective as Sinclair’s was a you try to solve seafood lover’s the night’s treat. (A don’tmiss menu item is the lobster crabcake appetizer at dinner.) Choose white tablecloth service or patio casual three meals a day.

Resort amenities include the luxurious spa, where you can enjoy a massage and then their hot liquid chocolate (wow!).

There’s a billiards room, an outdoor firepit and lounge area, fitness room, lighted tennis courts and a business center for checking e-mails.

The Beach Boomers package, starting at just $169 per night, includes daily gourmet breakfast for two, two-for-one bike rentals and discounts at Sinclair’s. Take the

murder mystery. In addition to enjoying a delicious dinner, you’ll spend about two hours helping the other guests solve the nights’ dastardly crime. Use the clues that are all around you—and your intuition—and you just might receive a nice prize when you show off your winning guess!

Up for something a little more unique? Head to the Treasure Tavern, Orlando’s hottest nighttime show and dining experience. Treasure Tavern is an unrivaled one-of-akind dining experience combining Cirque, burlesque, comedy magic, live music and delicious food. But be careful—there’s no telling when Madame Gretta just might pull you up on stage and poke a little fun at you for the amusement of all the guests!

So the next time you head out to the Orlando area, don’t forget to enjoy the area’s most unique nightlife!

Sleuths Mystery Dinner Theater is located at 8267 International Drive; call 1-800-393-1985 for info. Treasure Tavern is at 6400 Carrier Drive, just of I-Drive. Call 1-877-318-2469 for tickets and reservations.

Travels reported by Dave Kelly and Janice Doyle.

Sleuths (Above) and Treasure Tavern (Below).

Humor: New Texting Codes

F

or late life texters, these are some new texting codes you might need: ATD: at the doctor. BFF: best friend fell.

BTW: bring the wheelchair. BYOT: bring your own teeth. FWIW: forgot where I was.

GGPBL: gotta go, pacemaker battery low. GHA: got heartburn again.

IMHO: is my hearing aid on? LMDO: laughing my dentures out. OMMR: on my massage recliner.

ROFLACGU: rolling on floor laughing and can’t get up. TTYL: talk to you louder!

We have to laugh, don’t we!

Volunteer Opportunity F

lorida’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program needs volunteers to join its corps of dedicated advocates who protect the rights of elders who live in nursing homes, assisted living facilities and adult family care homes. The program’s local councils are seeking additional volunteers to identify, investigate and resolve residents’ concerns. Special training and certification is provided.

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All interested individuals who care about protecting the health, safety, welfare and rights of long-term care facility residents—who often have no one else to advocate for them—are encouraged to call tollfree at 1-888-831-0404 or visit the program’s website at ombudsman. myflorida.com.

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

Booking number: 460821 Departure Date: October 13, 2011

Tour: Canyon Country Group Name: Senior Connection Mature Lifestyles • July 2011 • page 23

Last Month’s Answers

June Sudoku

Last Month’s Answers

Enter

Roney Sorensen is last month’s winner!

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New winner selected each month

This Month’s to Win! Winner Is Howard Meyer Congratulations!

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July Sudoku

This month’s winner is

Enter To Win!

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 July 21 will win.

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

Myron L. Guisewite Congratulations !!!

Last Month’s Answers

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SUDOKU MUST BE RECEIVED BY JULY 21, 2011

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Please send me the following information Mature Best Friends Deserve Lifestyles • July Better 2011 •Plans pagebrochures 24 Pet Alert Wallet Card In-Case-Of-Emergency Window Decal

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Retirement CPR: Creating and Protecting Retirement

BY JON LYNN

F

inancial health, like physical health, requires that a person has a goal and the discipline to take positive action to achieve that goal.

Having worked in the financial industry since 1983, I have seen little change in the public’s financial health or habits. In fact, government studies reveal that only five out every 100 workers can successfully retire and maintain their lifestyle.

Why, in the world’s richest country, is that true?

Even if we have personal discipline and financial goals, there are three factors integral to a successful retirement.

Finance #1 is TIME. The sooner we start to save, the harder and longer our money can work for us! Using the “Rule of 72” we can calculate how quickly our savings will double, quadrruple, or more. #2 is CONTRIBUTIONS. The more we can set aside when we are younger, the greater our savings will be when we reach retirement. #3 is INVESTMENT RESULTS, which can drastically impact our retirement plans. Over the past decade, too many people have experienced losses of 30 percent to 50 percent of their retirement funds and are forced to keep working and are unable to retire.

Once a person decides which investment option is best suited for their needs, they must further consider which investment strategy best fits their risk tolerance.

The three strategies are fixed interest; the Market (either stocks or real estate) and Indexing.

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

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

Word Search Answers From

June 2011

The Market, either stocks or real estate, offers higher potential gain but also a major risk of loss. As we have seen in the 1987, 2001 and 2008 stock market drops, investors suffered significant losses, impacting their retirement plans. Likewise, as we have seen throughout the United States, the real estate market has experienced severe depreciation and losses in both commercial and residential property values.

The Index strategy has been rising in popularity due to higher potential gains combined with eliminating the risk of loss of principal and any annually credited interest added. Indexing is tied to the various stock indices such as the SP500, NASDAQ 100 or the FTSE rather than stocks or mutual funds.

Limited by participation rates and CAPs, the index strategy can offer double digit returns in up markets coupled with no risk of loss in a down markets. Should the stock market have negative results, the participant has no gain for the year but, more significantly, would suffer no loss. When the market recovers and begins to rise the participant will participate in the subsequent gains.

Once you have decided on which retirement option to utilize and which investment strategy fits your risk/ reward tolerance; the most important step is to take action and begin protecting your retirement income. And of course, “Enjoy your retirement!”

For more information, call (813) 774-1862 or e-mail the author at clynnlutz@aol.com.

Brenda Relford is last month’s winner!

Congratulations!

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Florida’s Award Winning Senior Magazine

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

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

The first correct answers selected from the drawing on July 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 July 21, 2011.)

Mature Lifestyles • July 2011 • page 25

Fido in Fiji and Hairballs in the Hamptons

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ummer travel season is approaching with 62 percent of households owning one or more pets, “What shall we do with the cat and dog?” is now a common question on the checklist of many travelers. Here are tips to help pet owners consider the family pets in their travel planning: Carefully consider if your pets should stay or go. Think about your lodging accommodations and trip agenda. Be sure to verify that your hotel, resort or campground is pet friendly.

Hotels impose restrictions that can include the size and number of pets, expensive non-refundable pet fees and rules against pets being left unattended in hotel rooms.

Consider your pet’s health. Has your pet had a recent veterinary check-up? Does your pet’s age or physical condition make it an ideal candidate for travel?

If Fido’s flying, plan ahead! Buses, trains and cruise ships do not typically allow pets. Most airlines allow pets to travel in the cabin or as cargo.

The ASPCA recommends that pet owners not fly their animals unless the pets are small enough to fit under the passenger seats. If you’ve already committed to transporting your pet on a commercial airline, the ASPCA offers a list of helpful tips for safe air travel with your pet.

888-599-5859

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1

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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 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.

4017 SENIOR LADY—YOUNGER ACTIVE LIFESTYLE likes to wind down and watch old movies on tv, do crosswords. Has an eye open for “The Him.” Age not an issue.

4029 MATURE WHITE FEMALE Fixed income, seeks friendship, pen pals, NS/ND/NDrg, no criminal background. Be 62+, male with morals and composure.

MEN SEEKING WOMEN 4018 SEEKING NATURAL HIRSUTE FEMALE Whether you’re a Frida Kahlo look-alike or an unrepentant hippie chick, as a pleasant hirsute lady, you’re my type of woman.

I’m an attractive, pleasant, very youthful senior man. Phone number please. Thank you! Tampa.

4028 PINELLAS COUNTY MAN SEEKING WOMAN Very adventur-

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

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For more information, please call (404) 865-7109.

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.

BOOKKEEPER/ACCOUNTING ASSISTANT Seeking an Accounting Assistant, to handle accounts receivable, accounts payable, collections and other accounting office duties.

This position requires the utmost accuracy and strong attention to detail. Required skills include QuickBooks, Excel, and Outlook, and ten-key by touch. Position will require a background check and verifiable references.

Please send your resume to: sjohn081@gmail.com Qualifications: • Computer experience • Strong communication • Ability to work unsupervised

Doing Our Part This Publication Supports Recycling Mature Lifestyles • July 2011 • page 27

Is this a place for excitement?

3 Yes!

keeping cool?

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wellness?

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independence for life? #1 rated Life Care?

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3 Yes!

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Feel positive about your financial future, with powerful asset protection. Feel secure about your health care, surrounded by the highest-rated team. Feel appreciated in a community famous for our at-your-service staff. See why we’ve earned an 11-year reputation for senior living with dignity and distinction.

Call 877-437-4424 today, because now is the best time to say “Yes!”

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CYP100074-YES ad 10x9 [MAY]MECH.indd 1

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