Lifestyles After 50 Southwest July 2013 edition by Lifestyles After 50 Magazine

Lifestyles

www.lifestylesafter50fl.com • Southwest • FREE

AFTER 50

Sparkling Drinks to Cool Your Summer

Vol. 24 • July 2013

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Meeting Mr. or Mrs. Right Boomers Retiring Fast Medicare + VA Benefits

Lifestyles After 50 • July 2013 • page 2

Volunteers Bring Life Experience To Kids In Need “There’s just a huge need for more mentors ixie” Dixon of for kids in this program,” Naples knows a says Dixon. “And I thing or two about thinking really think volunteering like a kid. As a Big Sister is an essential part of to 11-year-old Natalie, your life, especially it’s all about having fun. if you are retired.” Originally from PennsylDixon spends several vania, Dixon, 66, retired hours a month with her to Florida after a career charge, tutoring her and in corporate law and has sharing new experiences. been enjoying the chance Big Sister “Dixie” Dixon “My perception has to pursue her interests. always been that she Whether she’s busy making jewelry, needs to have fun, so I try to provide fun biking a six-day tour or volunteering activities,” Dixon says. “We’ve done for animal shelters or children’s a million things: gone roller skating, organizations, she likes to make the bike riding, to the beach or the swimmost of her time. She joined Big Broth- ming pool, cooking, recreation ceners Big Sisters (BBBS) about three and ters. At Christmas, we make Christmas a half years ago when Natalie was 8. cards.” Dixon has started a journal of BBBS matches adult volunteers their activities together and shared her (called “Bigs) with children (“Littles”) love of jewelry making with Natalie as in need of guidance and companionwell, and the pair have made earrings ship. Most of the kids come from and worked on other crafts together. single-parent or low-income families. So what does it take to be a Big?

BY TRACIE SCHMIDT

“D

“You need to be a person who is consistent and flexible,” Dixon answers. “You have to be sympathetic to them, and you have to understand that there may be things going on in their home that causes them to act in ways you may not know anything about.” Dixon also stresses how important the commitment to a Little is, and how much they rely on their Big to be there for them. Natalie lives with her grandmother and her twin sister Naomi, but the companionship that Dixon brings is just as important. “These kids need help, and sometimes their families are just too stressed by things to give them what they need,” she says about the importance of programs like BBBS. As far as her charge’s future goes, Dixon is hopeful. “It’s rewarding seeing her be happy, seeing her appreciate being together. She’s got a great grandmother who’s raising her very well, so I’m hoping that she’ll be a well behaved teenager

and I’m hoping that she will go for some further education after school.” Become a Big Right now, BBBS is hosting an initiative called 100 Men in 100 Days—a call to action to match 100 boys from the agency waiting list with a positive role model. “I’m hoping that other people will give it a try, because there’s really a huge need for mentors, especially for the boys,” encourages Dixon. It’s easy to join: applicants start out by choosing one of three programs: Community based, Sports based or School based. These programs guide the activities that Bigs and Littles participate in. Applicants then interview with a Match Manager who pairs them with a Little who shares similar interests. Volunteers are only required to spend a few hours a month with their Little, but even a short time can have a meaningful impact on a child. To learn more, or to join the program, visit bbbssun.org or call 941-488-4009.

Lifestyles After 50 • July 2013 • page 3

The Fun Is Gone! Give Me Back My Simple Life With Chocolate Dear Readers,

he lazy days of summer are here. Time for lounge chairs, cool lemonade and a good book. Be grateful for Doyle, air conditioning, salad Janice Editor lunches (no cooking!) and long hours of daylight. I receive press releases and information from a multitude of sources, all of which want free publicity in our magazine. Most of such information comes by email these days, and I can delete anything that doesn’t ﬁt our needs. Other times a newsy bit catches my eye and I keep reading. Let me give you an example. Chocolate! Chocolate used to be pretty straightforward—it came in a Hershey bar or chocolate chips or Ghirardelli if someone took a trip to San Francisco. Moms made chocolate cakes for special occasions. Life was simple. We now have so many choices, we’re picky about our chocolate. And we can blame it all on advertising. McCormick’s Flavor Forecast for 2013 noted these “trends” among those of us who are “chocolate consumers.” Who knew? Here are some examples of how we are labeled by manufacturers as chocolate consumers:

1. The Aware Shopper: This consumer is interested in products that are both environmentally-friendly and ethically produced, while also being convenient. Manufacturers use labels that are simple and transparent so consumers know exactly what they are buying. 2. Healthy Trafﬁc Jams: These consumers look for brands that communicate a “healthy indulgence.” These products are often promoted for their naturalness or nutritional value such as a source of vitamins D and E, sugar-free, or antioxidantenriched. Dark chocolate is also often touted for being good for the heart and blood circulation. 3. Gray but Healthy: Consumers are selecting products that can help them age more healthfully, which makes chocolate that provides collagen, protein and calcium especially appealing. 4. Just Say No: Gluten and lactose-free, anyone? Chocolate products that target consumers with allergies or intolerances to gluten, soy, dairy, certain preservatives and others have become more popular.

5. Protein Overdrive: Protein is a hot topic and there are many opportunities for chocolate to deliver protein—especially from plant-based alternatives such peas, nuts and seeds. 6. Beating the Sugar Demon: With diabetes on the rise, chocolate developers are coming up with sugar alternatives that still maintain the indulgence of chocolate. The number of chocolate products with claims of “no added sugar” has increased 130 percent from the first half of 2011 to the first half of 2012. 7. More with Less: Environmentally friendly packaging for chocolate is on the rise. 8. Interest at the Extremes: Intense flavors such as wasabi are being added to chocolate products and can help the elderly enjoy the experience more if they have less receptive palates. Where do you fit? It’s too much analyzing for me. Just get a life, folks—a simple life with lots of chocolate for no particular reason.

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 Michael Beauchemin: (941) 320-6270 Customer Service (941) 375-6260 dave@lifestylesafter50.com

News Connection USA, Inc. P.O. Box 638 Seffner, Florida 33583-0638 (813) 653-1988 • 1-888-670-0040 Fax: (813) 651-1989 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

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 August 2013 issue is July 15, 2013. Magazines are out by the 7th of each month. All rights reserved.

Lifestyles After 50 • July 2013 • page 4

Target Pharmacies are not located in all Target stores, hours vary by location, services of pharmacist may not be available at all times when Target stores are open. Free translation services available. ©2013 Target Brands, Inc. The Bullseye Design and Target are registered trademarks of Target Brands, Inc. 222498

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6/10/13 1:45 PM

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

hrough July 28 Les Misérables” at Naples Players, 701 Fifth Ave. S., Naples. Tickets and showtimes: 239-263-7990 or naplesplayers.org.

hrough Aug. 2 All Florida Juried Exhibit. See sculptures, paintings, photograph, prints and drawings from 29 talented Southwest Florida Artists at the Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. 239-939-2787.

Nature Walk with Bird Patrol Guide, 8:30 am at Lakes Regional Park in, Fort Myers. Free with $1 parking. Bring water, sunscreen and binoculars. Info: 239-533-7580.

15, 22, 29 Craft Corner: Knitting and Crocheting. Materials will be provided for newcomers, or bring your own project to work on. 3:30 to 5 pm at Cape Coral-Lee County Public Library. Info/RSVP to 239-533-4533.

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and 10 Cape Coral Social Club meetings. 11 Topic: Home Protection, 9:30 am. 20 “Roaring ‘20s” Dinner Dance. $25/person. Both events at Cape Coral Yacht Club on Driftwood Pkwy. For tickets and more info: call Flo Shepherd at 239-8411043 or Ann Parsons at 239-549-8016.

Free ice cream social and entertainment at Lake Kennedy Center, Cape Coral. 1 to 3 pm. RSVP at 239-574-0575.

Party Bridge. 11 am at Riverside Community Center, Ft. Myers. Details at 239-321-7530.

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Speak Up for a Child! Be a Guardian ad Litem Child Advocate! Lifestyles After 50 • July 2013 • page 6

Oil Painting 101. Learn how to stretch canvas, art history and painting basics. Thursdays at 7 pm at Riverside Community Center, Ft. Myers.$15/lesson. Info: call Joel Loeper at 239-574-8400.

Tropical Dinner Dance. Fullcourse dinner and live ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s music. $25/person. 6 to 10 pm at Rotino Center, Cape Coral. RSVP at 239-574-0807.

Sea Salt Summer Cooking School: “How to Shop & Create a Menu.” $65 class includes two glasses of wine, lunch and chef’s demonstration. 1186 Third St. S., Naples. RSVP at 239-434-7258.

The Curious Archaeology of Spanish Explorers in Florida. Learn what field work has told us about the first Spanish visitors and how new archaeology is changing the story. 11 am to 12 pm at East County Regional Library. 239-533-4212.

MangoMania Tropical Fruit Festival. Fruit, exotic fruit trees, and treats for sale along with family activities and live music. 10 am to 5 pm at the German-American Club, 2101 Pine Island Road, Cape Cora. $6/adults, free/children ages 9 and younger. Info: 239-283-4842.

Summer Jazz On The Gulf. Free concert at Naples Beach Hotel and Golf Club. 7 to 10 pm at Watkins Lawn, 851 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples. 239-261-2222.

History discussion; learn about simple relics from the Civil War. 2 to 3 pm at North Ft. Myers Library. Info at 239-533-4320.

Free Movie Matinee. Drinks/snacks for sale. 2 to 4 pm at Rotino Center, Cape Coral. 239-574-0807.

ug 3 Getting Ready for Fall Planting. Find out what plants are suited for our Florida environment and get the most out of your veggie patch with Master Gardener Karen Harty. 9:30 am to 10:45 am at East County Regional Library. For info, call Linda Dunn at 239-533-4212. Send Around Town news to News Connection USA, Inc., P.O. Box 638, Seffner, FL 33583; fax (813) 651-1989 or email calendar@srnewsconnection. com. News must be received by the 10th of the month prior to event (i.e. July 10 for August event.)

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Lifestyles After 50 • July 2013 • page 7

Steps for Meeting Mr. or Ms. Right

ear, stubbornness, ignorance, procrastination and resignation are among the deadly sins, according to relationship expert Ernest Quansah. “These are the psychological traits that singles use as excuses,” says Quansah, author of Do’s and Don’ts of Relationships: Nine Steps to a Deeper, Richer Love Relationship. “I hear it all the time; singles say they’re not rich enough, or they need to lose weight, or they just don’t think they’ll find what they want. But I say nothing is perfect, and if you think that you’ll only be good enough when you’ve lost five pounds, or have a nice car or a bigger house, then you will never be ‘good enough.’” While self-improvement is important, singles should not use excuses to put off what could be a meaningful, lasting relationship says Quansah, who takes a holistic approach to relationships. Here are his six questions to answer while pursuing love and true happiness:

• What is my goal? Jot down what you are really looking for. Are you looking for a lifelong partner, just a date on Valentine’s Day? Many “serial daters” and “twice married men and women” claim they want the real thing; however, often their behavior indicates the opposite. • What am I doing to achieve my goal? Striking a balance is important. Doing too much, like spending a lot of money on a new look or being too negative, can be relationship killers because they are not permanent solutions and this makes achieving your goal difficult. If you act like yourself,

you’ll be more comfortable and selfconfident—and those are attractive qualities! Remember who you are and what you love, but don’t be inflexible; love and relationship success are often about compromise. Taking note of what you have and haven’t done, and evaluating the effectiveness of those strategies, are the key to dating, relationship and marriage success.

• What might prevent me from achieving my goal? Fault finding can hinder the flow of success. Another obstacle may be placing artificial contingencies on your love connection, like comparing yourself to others. An objective, calm, and rational approach can help you map a course for meeting the man or woman of your dreams and achieving love relationship success. • What methods have not worked for me? Mistakes are to be expected – nobody’s perfect. But they should only be acceptable as long as you’ve learned

something from them. Look back and do a review. If you have approached dating or relationship success in ways that keep failing, it is time to change! • What methods have worked for me? Everybody has qualities that make them good at some things and not so great in other areas. Focus on your strengths; if you have used methods that brought you success in dating or in your marriage, you should use those methods because they will yield result. But do not be afraid to test the waters with new ideas. • What will it feel like when I succeed? If you cannot envision the taste of success, you may be less motivated to go the extra mile for true love. Think about how nice it would feel to have meaningful companionship, bring someone home to meet the family, and maybe even start a family of your own. For more, see Ernest Quansah’s website: relationshipadviceforsuccess.com.

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Martha Stewart’s Sparkling Limeade

(To make margaritas with this recipe, simply replace the quart of seltzer water with 2 cups tequila and salt the rims of the glasses. Serve over lots of ice.)

here are plenty of reasons to love summer fruit drinks, and not just as a cool treat on a hot day. They also pack a punch when it comes to healthy aging. Studies have shown that consumption of pineapple regularly helps fight against conditions like arthritis and indigestion because of a helpful proteolytic enzyme called bromelain, which aids in breaking down protein and has anti-inflammatory, anticlotting and anti-cancer properties. Citrus is another power fruit. Hesperidin, a flavonoid in oranges, helps to regulate high blood pressure. Limes, in addition to being excellent sources of Vitamin C, also contain calcium and folate, two nutrients that are important for post-menopausal women. In her book, “Alzheimer’s Disease, What If There Was a Cure?” Dr. Mary Newport describes how mediumchain fatty acids, like those found in coconuts, act as an alternative fuel in the insulin-deficient Alzheimer’s brain. Daily doses of coconut oil, she claimed, helped improve her ill husband’s cognitive function. Substitute green tea in your iced tea and gain an antioxidant boost, and do your eyes a favor by snacking on strawberries. According to a study by the Archives of Opthalmology, the berries can help decrease the possibility of contracting age-related macular degeneration by over one-third. Here are a few drink recipes that employ the benefits of fruit and take some of the heat out of summer afternoons: Lifestyles After 50 • July 2013 • page 10

1 cup water 1 cup sugar 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice, (from about 8 limes) 1 quart seltzer water Ice cubes Lime slices, for garnish (optional)

Cook 1 cup water and sugar until sugar has dissolved and mixture is clear, 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer to a pitcher; cool. To serve, stir together sugar-water mixture, lime juice and seltzer water. Pour over ice and garnish with lime slices, if desired.

Simple Strawberry Spritzer 32 oz. strawberries (frozen, unsweetened, thawed) 49 oz. white grape juice, chilled 25 oz. sparkling water, chilled Puree strawberries in blender until smooth. Combine strawberry puree, grape juice and sparkling water in a large pitcher; stir well. Enjoy!

Strawberry Lemonade

For the syrup 1 cup chopped fresh strawberries 2 Tbsp sugar 1 tsp lemon juice 2 Tbsp cold water 1 pinch salt For the lemonade 1 cup very hot water 2/3 cup sugar 1 1/4 cups fresh lemon juice (the juice from 4 – 5 large lemons) 4 1/2 cups cold sparkling water or 4 1/2 cups seltzer water Granulated sugar, optional for rimming the glass

To make the strawberry syrup, puree strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, water and salt in food processor or blender. Pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer to remove the seeds, pressing down to extract as much liquid as possible. To make the lemonade, combine the hot water and sugar in a pitcher. Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Mix in the lemon juice and water. Stir in the strawberry puree. To serve, rub a wedge of lemon around the rim of a glass and then dip in sugar. Fill with ice if desired and then lemonade. Garnish with sliced lemon or strawberries. Serve immediately.

Sparkling Green Tea Lemonade

If you think green tea is boring and tasteless, then try this. The sparkling fizz makes it taste fresh and feel good on your throat, while the sugar, lime and green tea add a zingy sensation to the old taste.

2 cups very hot water 3 bags green tea 3 tablespoons white sugar 2 cups chilled seltzer water 2 teaspoons lime juice 1 lime, sliced (optional) Put tea bags in pitcher. Pour in the hot water into a glass pitcher and steep for 5 minutes; remove and discard the tea bags. Stir the sugar into the tea until completely dissolved. Chill in refrigerator for 35 minutes. Pour the seltzer water and lime juice into the tea. Float the lime slices atop the mixture.

Oldest Boomers Retiring at a Quick Rate N

ow turning 67 years old, the first set of baby boomers, those born in 1946, continue to be myth-busters according to a new study: “Healthy, Retiring Rapidly and Collecting Social Security: The MetLife Report on the Oldest Boomers.” The report says the earliest boomers aren’t necessarily “working ‘till they drop,” as was predicted. More than half (52 percent) of the 1946 boomers are now fully retired. Of those, 38 percent say, “I’m ready,” while 17 percent cite health reasons and 10 percent attribute a job loss. Twenty-one percent remain employed full-time and 14 percent are working part-time; of those, most plan to retire fully by age 71. Sandra Timmermann, director of the MetLife Mature Market Institute said, “The boomer retirees are poised to remain active and engaged. As their nests empty they seem to be largely feeling healthy and positive. On the negative side, a good half of this group may not have achieved their retirement savings goals and are not confident about paying for the next phase of their lives.”

McKenzie Millis & Vivian Ciulla

• 86 percent are collecting Social Security benefits; 43 percent began collecting earlier than they had planned. • Only 14 percent of oldest boomers are working part-time or seasonally; 4 percent are self-employed. • Long-term care rose to the top of the list of retirement concerns; 31 percent reporting concern about providing for themselves or their spouses. • Despite the fact that they are worried about long-term care, just under a quarter owns private long-term care insurance.

Survey Results • 82 percent want to age in place and do not plan any future moves.

• Eight percent are “upside down” on their mortgage, owing more than the value of their home. • The average number of grandchildren is 4.8.

• 79 percent of oldest boomers have neither of their parents living, but more than one in 10 are providing regular care for a parent or older relative; for many, the level of care has increased. • Oldest boomers continue to believe they will see themselves as “old” at the age of 78.5.

• 16 percent of the oldest boomers see themselves as being sharpest mentally now, in their 60s, but the largest group (30 percent) believes they were sharpest in their 40s. • More than 40 percent of the oldest boomers are optimistic about the future. Nearly a quarter of those are optimistic about their health, and two in 10 feel good about their personal finances. • More than half of the oldest boomers feel their generation is leaving a positive legacy for future generations. Values and morals and good work ethics were the top two items cited.

Meet Our Assisted Living Experts (of course, when we say “our” we really mean “your”)

Navigating the myriad decisions in determining if Assisted Living is right for you or your loved one is just plain difficult. Levels of care. Different facilities. Quality. Affordability. All factors in ensuring an optimized quality of life. If you’ve got a question — or a whole list of them — meet with our assisted living experts, McKenzie or Vivian, today. With the well being of the individual as their highest priority, they’ll give you answers that can assist you in making the most informed decisions possible. When you do, we also invite you to tour Shell Point’s newest assisted living facility, The Springs. With beautiful surroundings and Shell Point’s proven reputation, The Springs offers an affordable option on a month-to-month basis.

Meet with our experts and visit The Springs today!

Appointments and tours can be arranged by calling (239) 454-2077 13901 Shell Point Plaza • Fort Myers, Florida 33908 www.shellpoint.org/springs

The Springs Assisted Living is part of Shell Point’s Integrated Healthcare System. Shell Point is a non-profit ministry of The Christian and Missionary Alliance Foundation, Inc. ©2013 Shell Point. All rights reserved. SPG-147-13

Lifestyles After 50 • July 2013 • page 11

How Do I Know What It’s Worth?

ith the runaway popularity of Antiques Roadshow, Pawn Stars and other shows amazing audiences by identifying the hidden value in their bric-a-brac and family heirlooms, families across the nation are sifting through their attics and basements in search of that special something that could make them rich. According to John Reznikoff, a leading document and signature authenticator, “both sellers and collectors need an impartial expert to verify significant

documents, manuscripts, letters, relics and autographs in many categories from sports and cinema to space exploration and presidential history.”

FAQ’s About Collectibles:

Who may own important historical autographs & documents? Many people believe that original letters and documents signed by George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, John Hancock and Albert Einstein, to name just a few, can only be found in museums and university libraries. In fact, many families have, over the generations and to this day, been fortunate to have far-sighted individuals who have appreciated these embodiments of history. Why do people collect these items? The fascination and allure of holding in one’s own hands a letter that played a pivotal role in the development of a

Lifestyles After 50 • July 2013 • page 12

country, an idea or an accomplishment is deeply compelling. Since historical autographs exist in almost every conceivable field of human endeavor, there are items to capture the imagination of most any collector.

What autographs are most popular? The most popular autographs are those of American presidents with Lincoln, Washington, Jefferson and John F. Kennedy heading the list in terms of monetary value. Leading scientists, composers, sports figures, Hollywood legends, writers and military figures are all avidly collected. These are all part of the panoply of historical autographs available to collectors. What makes an autograph valuable or collectible? Many factors go into the valuation of an historical autograph, leading to a wide range of prices. A personality who has left an indelible mark on history or society will continue to

attract the interest of people everywhere. A document or letter penned in the hand of this personality carries an intrinsic mystique and is therefore desired by collectors. There are in existence autographs and artifacts forever linked to highly-regarded individuals in countless fields of interest and therefore virtually limitless avenues for a collector to pursue. How do I know an autograph is authentic?

The world of collecting is full of pitfalls—forgeries, unscrupulous dealers and misinformation. The best way to make sure your item is authentic is to have it appraised by a recognized expert in the field. John Reznikoff is the first and only expert to combine his primary work as an autograph authenticator with the exacting discipline of forensic document examination, even having worked on several murder cases.

Medicare Answers D

oes Medicare cover vision services? —Jan

Dear Jan, Medicare generally does not cover routine eye care. It will pay for some eye care services, if you have a chronic eye condition, such as cataracts or glaucoma. In these cases, Medicare will cover: • Surgical procedures to help repair the function of the eye. • Eyeglasses or contacts only if you have had cataract surgery during which an intraocular lens was placed into your eye. • An eye exam to diagnose potential vision problems.

If you have diabetes or you are at high risk for glaucoma, Medicare will pay for an eye exam once every 12 months to check for eye disease due to either condition.

The Longest Road is a Great Read 16,000 miles; 14 states; 4 months; 2 English setters; one 1962 Airstream Globetrotter named “Ethel.”

ere’s your summer reading assignment: Philip Caputo’s The Longest Road: Overland in Search of American from Key West to the Arctic Ocean. Standing on the weatherworn shores of the Alaskan coast, Pulitzer Prize winning author Philip Caputo watched Inupiat Eskimo schoolchildren pledge allegiance to the same flag as the children of the Cuban immigrants in Key West, six thousand miles away. He began to wonder: How does the United States, as diverse as it is large, remain united? In 2011, in a nation mired in war abroad and rocked by the greatest

economic calamity since the Great Depression, Caputo loaded his wife and two English setters into an Airstream camper and hit the open road in search of answers. The book follows their epic four month road trip. The book is full of the author’s acute observations and his honest observations of our patchwork nation. Only an author like Caputo can make one extremely readable book that becomes a book of geography, sociology, marriage, science, racial relations, Native Americans… and so much more.

Editor’s note: This is a winner! It’s travel, geography, history, economics, sociology. Oh, and there’s the personal story of a marriage surviving such a trip, too. I loved every word of it. Lifestyles After 50 • July 2013 • page 13

Reaching For Relief From Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

e place a tremendous amount of demand on our hands, fingers and wrists every day, requiring them to perform an unlimited number of tasks without giving it much thought. But for people with pain and weakness due to carpal tunnel syndrome, some of those tasks may not be so easy. Carpal tunnel syndrome is very common in adults and generally affects women more often than men. Symptoms can range from a tingling sensation and numbness to radiating pain, weakness and loss of grip strength. It can become difficult to open a jar, turn a door knob, button a shirt, grip a car steering wheel or type on a computer keyboard. In addition to causing discomfort during the day, carpal tunnel symptoms can be severe enough to awaken many people from a deep sleep at night.

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Lifestyles After 50 • July 2013 • page 14

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What causes carpal tunnel syndrome? The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway or “tunnel” on the palm side of the wrist that protects the meridian nerve and the flexor tendons as they pass between the forearm and the hand. Sometimes the tissue surrounding the flexor tendons becomes inflamed and swollen, which narrows the tunnel and puts pressure on the meridian nerve. Symptoms typically start gradually and get progressively worse over time. According to the American Association of Orthopedic Surgeons there is usually no one single cause of carpal tunnel syndrome, however medical experts agree that there are several contributing factors, including: • Work or recreational activities that require repetitive movements or create vibration of the hand and wrist. • Wrist fractures, dislocation or bone spurs.

• Medical conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, gout, lupus, thyroid disease and kidney disease. • Fluid retention related to pregnancy, menopause or obesity.

• Anatomy—smaller than average carpal tunnels can be an inherited tendency in some families. In addition, women tend to have smaller carpal tunnels than men. • Age—the risk of developing carpal tunnel increases with age.

Treatment Options: A number of treatment options are available for carpal tunnel syndrome. Splinting or bracing the wrist may help relieve tingling and numbness by keeping the wrist in a neutral position. Anti-inflammatory medication and ultrasound-guided steroid injections can help reduce swelling. But outpatient minimally invasive surgery may be a more permanent solution to relieve pain and worsening disability. Surgical treatment involves cutting the ligament inside the carpal tunnel to create more space. As the ligaments grow back together during the healing process, it will naturally create more space in the carpal tunnel, eliminating compression on the meridian nerve. Minimally invasive carpal tunnel surgery has an excellent success rate. An estimated 500,000 people undergoing the procedure annually. Although recovery is individual, most patients can begin light activity within a few days of surgery and can expect to recover grip strength and resume a full range of activities in about four to six weeks. The physicians of Athletic Orthopedic and Reconstructive Center (AORC) are devoted to providing the highest level of quality care and treatment of the musculoskeletal system which includes the bones, joints, ligaments, muscles and nerves. For more info on ways to maintain healthy joints and bones or to discuss treatment options, call 239-936-6778 or visit www.bone-fix.com.

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239-368-8277 Lifestyles After 50 • July 2013 • page 15

Dad needs you and Hope too. Find the support your family needs. 855-454-3102 • HopePACE.org Hope PACE® is a federally funded, joint Medicare and Medicaid program.

Does Your Loved One Need Help? I f you’re wondering if your loved one needs day-by-day help or care, note these questions. If several are true, it might be time to look for help. 1. Difficulty walking – unsteady when standing or having had recent falls. 2. Poor grooming/ personal hygiene, soiled clothes.

3. Loss of appetite – changes in eating or cooking habits.

4. Spoiled/outdated food in fridge – little nutritious food in the house.

5. Diminished driving skills – recent accidents, near misses.

All Medical Care Medication Dental Care Transportation In-home Support Adult Day Care Meals

6. Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed.

Participants may be fully and personally liable for the costs of unauthorized or out-of-PACE program agreed services. In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Ave SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call 800-795-3272(voice) or 202-720-6382(TTY).

Lifestyles After 50 • July 2013 • page 16

8. Difficulty concentrating – poor judgment.

9. Memory loss – forgetfulness, confusion. 10. Mishandled medications.

11. Persistent fatigue – lack of energy. 12. Personality changes – irritability or sudden mood changes.

13. Unopened mail – past due bills, mishandled finances.

14. Poor housekeeping/ home maintenance – unsafe conditions. Information from Granny Nannies.

Tips From Your Pharmacy Aisle

BY SHERRY TORKOS, BSC, PHM

oday’s pharmacies are wonderful resources for our growing “seasoned citizen” population, one-stop shops for everything from products to help with mobility, bathing and grooming to medication management. Some of my top picks include: Medication management: Pill reminders and organizers help keep medications organized and remind the person to take their medication. Pill crushers make large pills easier to take.

Serving Charlotte, Collier and Lee Counties

7. Reluctance to socialize.

Mobility aids: For those with limited mobility, or who are recovering from hip or knee surgery or injuries, look for these innovative products: • The Reacher Grabber Tool for reaching things on the floor or above your head. It has a unique trigger lock that eliminates the need for a constant grip, which is helpful for people who have arthritis. It’s also got a special

dressing hook at the tip to help retrieve shoes and socks, and pull them on. • Travel Seat + Cane. This handy, lightweight item provides people with a stable seat whenever and wherever they need it. It also functions as a walking cane with a comfortable grip handle. • Jar Opener E-Z Claw for opening jars, bottles, doorknobs and containers. Vitamins and Supplements: The enormous selection can be confusing! Focus on these: • Fiber supplements. • Food thickeners and ready to eat meals such as Ensure and Boost. • Multivitamins. Ask your pharmacist to recommend a product to meet your needs. Sherry Torkos is an award-winning pharmacist, author of 16 books and booklets and a fitness enthusiast. www.sherrytorkos.com.

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Let’s start with the computer itself. It features the latest touch screen technology, so if you can dial a phone, you can use this computer. If you’d rather use a keyboard and a mouse, we’ve included those too. The keyboard features large lettering and the trackball mouse is easy to use. The speakers enable you to turn up the volume if you have trouble hearing, and there is even a built-in camera for taking photographs of yourself and for video chat.

• Email- Photos of grandchildren, jokes from friends– now you’re connected • Internet- It’s informative, entertaining and interactive– WOW can take you anywhere • Social Media- From Facebook to Twitter, keep up with friends and family • Video Chat- It’s fantastic… and it’s free.

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WOW! The perfect name for this amazing computer. I have been using it for about a month and thoroughly enjoy the speed and ease in which I am able to download pictures from my camera and share them with family and friends via email. Everything is so easy to use at the touch of my fingertips. To be able to chat with and see my grandchildren is as though they are here with me. I haven't begun to explore all the benefits of this computer. It has opened up a whole new world for me. I love it, love it, love it! – Carol K., Benbrook, TX Lifestyles After 50 • July 2013 • page 17

Turn Chaos into Control After the Death of a Loved One S

settling the present and erial entrepreneur for planning the future. Susan Alpert capEach year, approximately tured the good life with 1.2 million Americans lose her husband of 46 years, their spouses. Alpert decided Larry. She had a great she would help these survifamily and a successful vors. She offers these tips career, including runfor handling the immediate ning several multimilaftermath of a spouse’s death. lion dollar companies. “After a fairy-tale wed• Define your workspace. ding, we lived ‘happily Susan Alpert Establish a workplace where ever after’—as happy you will deal with the paperwork, as real-life gets—except, of course, phone calls, etc. If you have that’s not really the end of the story,” says Alpert, author of “Driving Solo”. an office or guest room, either is a good choice. Do not use your living room, kitchen or bedroom—the places where you live. Your work space will be focused “Ten months after my husband was diagnosed with leukemia, I lost him— on the past, and your living space should be devoted to along with my passion and ability the present. Supply your to focus on a purpose for living.” workspace with stamps and She was overwhelmed with the envelopes, stapler, paper amount of financial, legal, civic and clips, file cabinet, etc. personal paper work necessary for

Retirement Living

Lifestyles After 50 • July 2013 • page 18

• Keep a contact binder near your telephone to record the dates, names, numbers, and relevant notes regarding all phone conversations. This contact book is an essential resource that you will use often, and a great time-saver. This chronological listing makes it easy to identify at a glance with whom you spoke and when. Dedicate this binder to matters pertaining solely to the business aspects of your loss.

• Non-family notifications to make immediately: You will need to notify your lawyer, accountant, financial advisor, banking institutions and the Social Security Administration to advise them of the situation. Keep records of your calls in your contact binder. Make certain you ask what you must do to follow through. Have them repeat it. When possible, get it in writing. An e-mail or fax is as good as a hard copy. • Keep your receipts!: While it may be the farthest thing from your mind now, many of the expenses associated with this process can be reimbursed via the estate or itemized and deducted on your tax return. These include costs associated with documentation (e.g., photocopying, postage, and mileage) as well as records and receipts relating to funeral expenses. Later, you can check with your legal and tax advisors for current rules and regulations, and to discuss whether you qualify for these write-offs. For more information, visit the website at susanalpertconsulting.com.

Lifestyles After 50 • July 2013 • page 19

BY EVELYN MACKEY

hink of Hollywood’s grand romances— like Bogie and Bacall or Newman and Woodward. But Bologna and Taylor? Sure you know them. Character actor Joseph Bologna has starred in numerous TV shows and movies, most notably as Michael Caine’s best friend in Blame it on Rio and as comic King Kaiser in My Favorite Year. His wife Renee Taylor is known as Fran Drescher’s mother, Sylvia Fine, on The Nanny for which she received a Best Supporting Actress Emmy nomination. She’s also been in Happily Divorced, How I Met Your Mother and Shake It Up. More recently she co-starred in Tyler Perry’s Temptations: Confessions of a Marriage Counselor with Kim Kardashian and Vanessa Williams. In the movie, Taylor plays a pharmacist, but, from experience, could be the marriage counselor as she introduces her husband of 47 years as her boyfriend. She told a reporter, “It was a dramatic movie but it was about what happens when you commit adultery… how painful it is for everybody, and I guess I was the comic relief. Everybody else in it was very serious…but I had a wonderful time.” Her current live one-woman comedy show titled My Life On A Diet is about true diets she has been on, and the movie stars she met, from Joan Crawford to Marilyn Monroe, whose advice she sought about what to eat to make her as famous and as slim as they were. Lifestyles After 50 • July 2013 • page 20

50-year marriage In 1965 Bologna, an Italian Catholic boy from Brooklyn, married Taylor, a Jewish girl from the Bronx. Their wedding was telecast from TV host Merv Griffin’s studio.

is If Ever You Leave Me, I’m Going With You. Renee, 80, is known as much for her brilliant smile as she is for her capacity to look like a sad sack when her husband is her straight man on stage. It’s that famous face of hers, whether Renee Taylor and sad or smiling,

Now married for over 50 years, Taylor and Bologna have each had individual careers, but they’ve also made a name as a couple for their husband Joseph Bologna. writing. In 1970, they shared an Academy Award nomination for Best Writing of a Screenplay Based on Material from Another Medium for the silver screen version of their Broadway hit Lovers and Other Strangers. Highlights of their successful collaborations also include It Had To Be You, Bermuda Avenue Triangle and Acts of Love and Other Comedies. Taylor as “Sylvia” With great good on “The Nanny.” humor they tell how they renew their marriage vows every seven years…in a different religious ceremony each time (Catholic, Jewish, Hindu etc). A later stage collaboration which includes stories about their marriage

that made her ask Cindy Cohen, her personal makeup artist, to develop a firming serum that would immediately tighten her face and de-puff the area under her eyes before performing on stage and screen. Now Renee Taylor is becoming even more famous for creating a face tightening serum called faceLOVE™, which has received rave reviews for its ability to work instantly and effectively. With just a few drops of this better-than-Botox product, faceLOVE™ diminishes fine lines and wrinkles, de-puffs eyes and instantly tightens and smoothes skin. faceLOVE™ has peptides in it, protein, which is healthy for the skin and works in seconds… which is amazing. One $55 bottle will last for several months, and it comes with free shipping and a free lipstick. The name faceLOVE™ came, says Taylor, because she wants women’s faces to feel like when your grandmother holds your face in her hands and you feel loved. Visit www.rtfacelove. com or you can also call toll free at 855-502-3002.

Two Optometrists Join Frantz EyeCare Medical Team

ocal Cataract and from Northern Illinois LASIK Specialist University. She most Jonathan M. Frantz, recently worked as an MD, FACS, is pleased optometrist at the VA to announce that Dan Clinic in Port Charlotte. Jefferies, OD, and Both doctors are memJamie Hogan, OD, bers of the American have joined the mediOptometric Association. cal team at Frantz Dr. Jefferies sees Jamie Hogan, OD (L) EyeCare. As optompatients in the Naples and Dan Jeffreries, OD (R) etrists they are primary office and Dr. Hogan eye care providers who specialize in ex- sees patients in the Fort Myers and amination and diagnosis of eye diseases, Cape Coral offices. To schedule an vision conditions, testing for eyeglasses appointment, call the Naples office at and contact lenses, and provide pre- and 239-430-3939 or the Fort Myers office at post-operative care of surgery patients. 239-418-0999 or visit bettervision.net. Dr. Jefferies graduated from Indiana Jonathan M. Frantz, MD, is named University School of Optometry and in Best Doctors in America and The received his Bachelor of Science degree Guide to America’s Top Ophthalmolofrom Ball State University in Indiana. He gists. He and his team of doctors at worked in private practice in the Naples Frantz EyeCare offer comprehensive area for 17 years, then moved to Oregon eye exams, laser cataract removal, and recently returned to southwest Florida. treatment of eye diseases, bladeless Dr. Hogan graduated from Illinois iLASIK, and eyelid surgery with office College of Optometry in Chicago locations in Fort Myers, Naples, Cape and received her Bachelor of Science Coral, Punta Gorda, and Lehigh Acres.

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Dr. Matthew Holtan Offers New Non-Surgical Facelift Dentures

inally after all those years of making dentures the same way and getting the same poor results, new technology has given us a solution for denture wearers. When dentures are designed with optimum neuromuscular dimensions, stable and relaxed muscles result. The sunken in look from unnatural dentures is eliminated. Our dentures have resulted in patients who look 20 years younger and who could eat normally again! Facelift Dentures offer many advantages over traditional dentures in both health and aesthetics. Although more expensive than traditional dentures, there is no comparison to the benefits Facelift Dentures give their wearers. The benefit of having a denture that maintains and supports your face as well as allows you to eat whatever you want is much more appealing than one that leads to jawbone deterioration and an aged appearance.

Using principles of neuromuscular dentistry, Dr. Holtan is able to restore the natural dimensions of the face using an advanced electrical stimulation technique known as TENS. TENS allows for the most advanced recording of a patient’s bite and natural dimension of the face. Used in conjunction with the highest quality teeth, Facelift Dentures are a true fountain of youth. Facelift Dentures can be made in conjunction with dental implants for support and stability, or with remaining natural teeth or without any teeth at all. Dr. Holtan is offering no-fee consultations and analysis at both his Naples, FL and Cape Coral, FL locations. Please call for more information.

Matthew J Holtan DDS

860 111th Ave N Suite 5 Naples, FL

239-593-4915

819 Del Prado Blvd S Cape Coral, FL

239-772-3700

Lifestyles After 50 • July 2013 • page 21

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For Veterans and Spouses

ignity Memorial providers are devoted to celebrating the significance of lives that have been lived, which is why we have always made service to veterans and their families a priority. Dignity Memorial providers have a rich heritage of serving veterans, and are proud to have handled arrangements for seven U.S. Presidents and thousands of rankand-file veterans from coast to coast. Dignity Memorial has the endorsement of some of the most prominent veteran organizations in the nation. In fact, membership in a participating veteran’s service organization qualifies you to receive exclusive savings and benefits when you use the services of a Dignity Memorial provider. Many of the men and women who protected our freedoms do not receive the proper respect they are entitled to at their passing. Sometimes this is because their families and funeral providers may be unaware of the

veterans benefits available. That is why we are pleased to provide you with a Veterans Planning Guide. This booklet, formulated by Dignity Memorial, will take an important step for your future peace of mind, and help you secure all the veterans burial benefits you are entitled to. While you may qualify as a veteran for certain burial benefits, they do not come automatically. The Veterans Planning Guide covers the benefits that are available to veterans and their spouses, including eligibility requirements. To receive your free Veterans Planning Guide, and further info regarding your benefits, contact Sam Harmon at 239-822-0185, or SamRHarmon@aol.com.

Yoga And Meditation

ind your center at these beginnerfriendly classes year you:

Five Ways to Meditate: In this two hour workshop, learn techniques to break the stress cycle and create greater harmony in our personal and work lives. July 17, 7 to 9 pm at Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. $30. Instructor: Debbie Padnuk. 239-939-2787.

Gentle Flow Yoga: Every Saturday

at Newton Park, 4650 Estero Blvd, on Ft. Myers Beach. 7 pm. Release tension and rejuvenate while the sun sets. This class will nurture your mind, body and soul by helping to alleviate stress and promote conscious relaxation. Open to all levels, from beginner to advanced yogi. $10. Instructor: Aleksandra Eifler. 239-297-9622.

Classes At The Greenmarket

he community is invited to visit the Alliance For The Arts Greenmarket at 10:30 am on first and third Saturdays in July and August to participate in the 2013 Urban Farming Workshop Series. Learn how to produce food in small areas in cities and towns using organic, bio-intensive methods. Pre-registration is not required and the workshops are free, but a $5 donation to support future programs

is appreciated. The Greenmarket is located at 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. Info: 239-939-2787.

Classes in July: The Urban Chicken Coop: How To’s for Fresh, Organic Eggs. 10:30 to 11:45 am.

6 20

Intro to Organic Beekeeping on Yards and Rooftops. 10:30 to 11:45 am.

Veterans Corner

How Does Medicare Fit With VA Benefits? BY JANICE DOYLE

Can I have both Medicare and VA coverage? —Richard

ear Richard, yes, you can have both Medicare and VA (Veterans Affairs) coverage. If you have been honorably discharged or released from the military, naval or air service, you may be able to get health coverage through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). You can also have Medicare if you are eligible for Medicare due to age, disability, End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or Lou-Gehrig’s disease (ALS). However, keep in mind that Medicare and VA benefits do not work together. Medicare does not pay for care that you receive at a VA facility. In order for Medicare to cover your care, you must receive care at a Medicare-certified facility that works with your Medicare coverage. Additionally, in order for your VA coverage to cover your care, you must usually receive health care services at a VA facility. Bear in mind that you may want to consider enrolling in Medicare Part B (Medicare medical insurance), even if you have VA coverage. Having Medicare Part B may guarantee you medical coverage outside the VA health system. Additionally, if you delay enrolling into Medicare Part B when you are first eligible to do so, you may incur a premium penalty and experience gaps in coverage. Some veterans use their VA drug coverage to get their medications, since VA drug coverage may offer more generous prescription drug coverage than Medicare Part D, the Medicare prescription drug

benefit. Since VA drug coverage is also considered creditable (as good or better than the Medicare prescription drug benefit), those who use VA drug coverage can get their medications from a VA facility and delay enrolling into Medicare Part D without penalty. If you have questions about VA benefits and coverage, contact the VA Health Administration Center at 1-800-733-8387 or 1-877-222-VETS (877-222-8387).—Marci The above is from Marci’s Medicare Answers, a service of the Medicare Rights Center (www.medicarerights. org), the nation’s largest independent source of information and assistance for people with Medicare.

Shocking statistic:

Right now, the number of homeless male and female Vietnam era Veterans is greater than the number of service persons who died during that war.

VA Tackles Long Claim Waits

On May 15, the VA announced that it is mandating overtime for claims processors in its 56 regional benefits offices through the end of fiscal year 2013 to help eliminate the backlog, with continued emphasis on highpriority claims for homeless veterans and those claiming financial hardship, the terminally ill, former Prisoners of War, Medal of Honor recipients, and veterans filing Fully Developed Claims. As of May 17, the paperless claims processing system known as the Veterans Benefits Management System, or VBMS, has been deployed to 46 out of 56 regional office locations, and about 18 percent of VA’s current claim inventory is in an electronic format. (From va.gov/healthbenefits.)

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BEFORE OR AFTER THE SHOW TREAT YOURSELF TO INCREDIBLE FOOD OFFERS at JIA - Stalla - Coast - The Buffet. See restaurant for details. For tickets, visit BEAURIVAGE.COM or the Beau Rivage ticket office, or call the ticket office at 1.888.747.7711.

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Not retroactive. Schedule subject to change. Space is limited. Anyone under 21 must be accompanied by a legal adult at all times. Valid ID required. *Limited availability. 48 hour advanced booking required. 24 hour cancellation policy. Package rates are per room and limited to one package per trip. Two show tickets are per room, per stay, valid only during package trip and cannot be transferred. Package cannot be combined with any other package or promotions. Room packages not available during blackout dates of July 4-6 and July 9-11, 2013. Not available to persons attending meetings, groups or conventions. Non transferrable. A deposit for full package price is required and charged at time of reservation. Must be 21 to reserve a room and check into Beau Rivage. Beau Rivage charges a daily Resort Fee. This daily Resort Fee is in addition to the daily room rate charge and local and state taxes. Theater seating is based on availability and on a first come first served basis. Additional restrictions may apply. Beau Rivage management reserves all rights. ©2013 MGM Resorts International®.

Lifestyles After 50 • After_50_FUNAMBULA_Ad_6.1.13.indd July 2013 • page 24 BR_SnowBirds_Lifestyles

5/13/13 2:48 PM

or call 1-800-771-2255

Solo Women Travel Group BY SUZANNE TASKOWITZ

y love of travel began over 30 years ago as a young teacher studying and exploring all of the beautiful places in the world. I vowed that one day I would visit these destinations and experience the magic firsthand. In 1999, on sabbatical from my position as a social worker and armed with a child’s map of the most amazing places in the United States, my husband and I spent three months traveling throughout America. We visited Old Faithful, the Badlands, Pier 39 in San Francisco, Napa Valley, the Painted Desert, Grand Canyon, San Diego and the islands of Hawaii, seeing everything with first time wonder and enthusiasm! The more I traveled, the more I wanted to share this experience with others and thus began my second career. I help my clients become travelers, not tourists, with a hands on

approach; I escort them to worldwide venues or manage their independent travel programs. I am most proud to sponsor and host the wonderful members of our Solo Women Travel Group. In December, we will enjoy three days of “Christmas in Manhattan” for some last minute shopping along with Broadway and the Radio City Music Hall Christmas show. During 2013, we have additional trips planned for Greece, St. Augustine, Florida and Israel. I will be traveling this summer to Canada, Alaska, England and Ireland. There is no substitute for experience! I hope that you will allow me to help you explore this exquisite world we call home. Join us…everyone is welcome! To learn more, please visit our website at www.itg-elite.com or call 1-239-877-2552.

Solo Women Travel Group Travel with Suzanne & Experience the World! Our Current 2013 & 2014 Trips

Greece – Sept. 25 – Oct. 4 Israel – Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Tiberias, Dead Sea - Nov. 6 –14 Christmas in Manhattan – Dec. 3 – 6 Celebrity Catholic Singles Cruise – Jan. 18 – 25 Monthly Meeting Held at Pinchers Crab Shack in Naples Tin City. Call for information.

The International Travel Group 888-664-2664 • www.itg-elite.com

5 Tips For The Traveling Woman

o you’re a woman and you want to see the world—on your terms. Join the crowd of an estimated 32 million women in the past year, according to the Travel Industry Association. “It’s the new trend in travel and, really, it’s a no-brainer,” says Ruth Yunker, an intrepid solo traveler and author of Paris, I’ve Grown Accustomed to Your Ways, a humorous recounting of her extended stay in Paris as part-time resident, part-time tourist. “We value our independence and we have the means to get up and go, so why not?” Yunker says. If this is your dream, Yunker offers valuable advice: 1. So you want to travel. Buy a nonrefundable airline ticket six months in advance. Don’t get stopped by all the details. You can, and will, worry about all the other details later. But

baby, with this ticket, you are now on your way. 2. Bring a few creature comforts from home— like at-home comfy wear. 3. Pack only clothes you currently actually wear rather than a ton of new clothes. The old clothes fit you now and you know without thinking how to look pulled together. 4. Bring some currency from your destination country with you. In the mayhem of the airport, do you really want to be finding the currency exchange? Just getting to the hotel/ apartment will be job enough. 5. Once at the hotel, unpack your toilet articles and arrange them in the bathroom in the same order you do at home. Ruth Yunker is an author, humorist, columnist, blogger and diehard world traveler.

Lifestyles After 50 • July 2013 • page 25

Eat Your Fingers Off

Last Month’s Answers

June Sudoku

Carolyn Fischer is last month’s winner! Congratulations!

Win Great Prizes!

New winner selected each month

Good Luck!

July Sudoku

Sudoku requires no arithmetic skills.The object of the game is to fill all the blank squares with the correct numbers. Each row and each column of 9 numbers must include all digits 1 through 9 in any order. Each 3 by 3 subsection of the 9 by 9 square must include all digits 1 through 9 as well. 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: NEWS CONNECTION USA, INC. P.O. BOX 638, SEFFNER, FL 33583

WIN! WIN! WIN! GREAT PRIZES!

Sudoku muST bE REcEIvEd by July 21, 2013

Word Search July

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?

ecoding the meaning of words is a sophisticated process, one we often struggle with even within the same language. But add another language to the mix and the risk for miscommunication can rise starkly and often humorously. Some of the greatest business blunders have occurred when American companies exported certain products abroad without properly researching the impact of the local translation.

Humor For example, Kentucky Fried Chicken tried to translate its classic slogan “finger-lickin’ good” into Chinese characters. The unfortunate

Word Search

result was a plea for KFC consumers to “eat your fingers off.”

Coors beer encountered a similar challenge when translating its slogan “turn it loose” into Spanish. Would you really want to drink a beer that encouraged you to “suffer from diarrhea? When the pope was going to visit Miami, a region with a strong religious following among Hispanics, T-shirts that were meant to say “I saw the Pope!” (el Papa) instead joyfully announced that “I saw the Potato!” (la Papa). And who can forget the classic Ford Nova? When exported to Mexico, it did not do well. No wonder. In Spanish, “no va” means “doesn’t go.”

Answers From June

Send your answers along with your name, address and telephone number to: News CoNNeCtioN UsA, iNC. P.o. BoX 638, seFFNeR, FL 33583

Lifestyles After 50 • July 2013 • page 26

The first correct answers selected from the drawing on July 21 will win. Mystery Prize!

WIN! WIN! WIN! GREAT PRIZES!

Mystery Prize!

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

Gloria Gonzales is last month’s winner! Congratulations!

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Lifestyles After 50 • July 2013 • page 27

Seniors Getting Together 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. 4260 WOulD lIKE a ChrIStIaN MaN I’m 89 and would like a good friend from 85 – 95 and reasonably attractive. Any dare to take a chance on a winner? 4263 SW laDy SEEKING SWM 65 – 75 I am 65, 5’3”, retired, children grown. Want friendship/romance. I enjoy the beaches and honesty. 4271 SEEKING aftErNOON COMpaNIONShIp, R, P, WW, W, hWP, let’s talk and see what we can enjoy together. I don’t drive at night. No golf, sailing or casinos. 4272 aSIaN pEtItE SlENDEr WOMaN seeking Christian gentleman.

Non-smoker, non drinker. I have dark hair, brown complextion, 5’. Likes gardening, travel, dancing, cooking, music. Fun-loving. I’m 70 YO, looks younger than age, 65 – 78 years old okay. Tampa.

MEN SEEKING WOMEN 4256 SWM, NS, SD, NDrG likes fun, surprises, daily chats, computers, great food, dancing, exercise, travel. Christian, purpose-driven culture. Two great sons. 6’4”, 196 lbs., 68 Y. Downtown St. Pete. Must be over 25 < 75. 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.

RUN YOUR AD FREE IN AUGUST!

SENIORS GETTING TOGETHER Personal Ad Placement

Find Your Summer Romance! Run Your Ad Mark The Edition(s) You Would Like To Run Your Ad In: Free In The Aug. Edition! Deadline for ads is the 15th of the month prior to placement.

Hillsborough & Suncoast (Pinellas/Pasco) Lake/Marion Counties Southwest/Charlotte (Fort Myers/Port Charlotte)

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

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Lifestyles After 50 • July 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

Check Us Out Online! Lifestyles After 50 Is On

and

tO plaCE aN aD

Send your ad, stating what category you would like it placed in, your edition(s), 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.

Visit www.twitter.com/ MaturlifeStyles or click the Facebook icon on lifestylesafter50ﬂ.com for the latest news, contests and fun events in your area. Share your comments with us!

Midsummer Night’s Sing

he 16th Annual “A Midsummer Night’s Sing” will be held Tuesday, July 23, at First Presbyterian Church, 2438 Second St., downtown Fort Myers. There will be a 90-minute performance of hymns, sing-alongs, instrumentalists and special guests beginning at 7 pm to benefit the Community Cooperative Ministries (CCMI

– The Soup Kitchen). About 2,000 children and families will benefit from the summer program. The Hymn Sing is sponsored by First Presbyterian Church and the Galloway dealerships. Admission is free, but visitors are urged to bring cash donations and cans of food. For more info, call 239-334-2261.

History For Young and Old 26 A

dults and grandkids will enjoy these events at Charlotte County Historical Center, 22959 Bayshore Rd., Charlotte Harbor. Preregistration required for both at 941-629-7278.

– 26 On Grandma’s Lap, summer camp. Kids and grandkids learn to celebrate the lives and times of their ancestors while recording stories and events from their own life. $100.

The Siege of Vicksburg roundtable discussion. In July of 1863 two decisive Civil War engagements changed the course of the American Civil War: the Battle of Gettysburg and the Siege of Vicksburg. Join the center in a discussion on the effects of Vicksburg, especially the changing role of the state of Florida. A commemoration of the American Civil War sesquicentennial. $2. 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm.

Wherever you live in Northern Lee & Charlotte Counties there is a Walgreens store nearby

Last Month’s Answers

Enter

Last Month’s to Win! Winner Is Mary Calpino Congratulations!

Open 24 Hours 805 Cape Coral Pkwy., Cape Coral, 33990 ................ 239-945-1076 1800 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte, 33948 ................. 941-625-4847 22449 Edgewater Dr., Port Charlotte, 33980.............. 941-625-4346

This month’s winner is

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Other Stores - Call For Hours 4 N.E. Pine Island Rd., Cape Coral, 33909 ................ 239-242-2231 6 Del Prado Blvd., Cape Coral, 33990 ....................... 239-458-2204 2710 Del Prado Blvd., Cape Coral, 33904 ................. 239-574-1932 1606 Del Prado Blvd., Cape Coral, 33990 ................. 239-458-7427 2409 Santa Barbara Blvd., Cape Coral, 33914 .......... 239-458-8576 611 Burnt Store Rd., Cape Coral, 33991 .................... 239-690-4939 1534 Cape Coral Pkwy., Cape Coral, 33914 .............. 239-541-2035 17970 N. Tamiami Trail, Cape Coral, 33903............... 239-599-3005 16000 N. Cleveland Ave., North Fort Myers, 33903 ... 239-656-3419 13501 N. Cleveland Ave., North Fort Myers, 33903 ... 239-997-4332 6370 Bayshore Rd., North Fort Myers, 33917 ............ 239-658-1424 3795 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda, 33950 ................... 941-505-8882 1930 Kings Highway, Port Charlotte, 33980 ............... 941-764-8444 3001 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte, 33952 ................. 941-235-6399

Myron L. Guisewite Congratulations !!!

Last Month’s Answers

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I want information on: Travel / Cruises Recreation / Leisure Entertainment / Events

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• Local and World News • All Your Favorite Events

• Great Stories & Information • Travel, Finance, Health & More! Lifestyles After 50 • July 2013 • page 29

July 2013

ondays “Monday Night Dancing. Live music. 7:30 – 10 p.m. Cake and coffee served. $5.

The Best of Charlotte County

FEATURED EVENTS

Laughter Therapy Class. Lighten your load and gain health benefits. 10 to 11 am. $9. ”Vocal Vixens” Dinner Theatre featuring Jazz and Pop by “Just Friends.” $13. 7 pm. Bon Jovi Tribute by “Keep The Faith.” 7 pm. Tickets: $15/adv, $20/door.

• 3rd Annual Lemon Bay Sunrise Rotary Cajun Festival and 4th of July Fireworks, July 4, 11 am to 9:30 pm. The Cajun Fest will be held on Dearborn St. Enjoy live Cajun music and plenty of food—jambalaya, gumbo, crawfish, burgers and more. Music begins at noon; family fun all day. Fireworks at dusk. Free. lemonbaysunriserotary.info.

20 27

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

5th Annual “Hooked on Habitat” Redfish Tournament. $2,500 grand prize. Festivities start with a seafood captain’s dinner by Peace River Seafood. Cash prizes and raffles! Fish for a great cause – proceeds support Habitat For Humanity. Laishley Marina, Punta Gorda. Advance registration required - $300 per boat (3 anglers). For additional information, call 941-639-3162 or visit their website at charlottecountyhfh.org.

• Christmas in July Bazaar, July 12 – 14, 9 am to 4 pm at The Cultural Center of Charlotte County. Handmade crafts, free cookies, punch and pictures with Santa. Free face painting for children. Treats, cupcake decorating. Music, prizes and raffles, classes and fitness fun. 941-625-4175, ext. 230. • Fishermens Village Pirate Fest 2013, July 26, 12 to 6 pm; 27, 10 am to 8 pm, and 28, 11 am to 5 pm. Free piratethemed activities and events including mermaids, a fire show, boat parade, Pirate’s Ball and more. Fishermens Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, 57A, Punta Gorda. 941-575-3067

Join Us For Our Aug. 2013 Edition!

Helping Hands

Just For Fun performs your favorite dance and variety tunes, 5 – 9 pm, center stage.

Enjoy classics and dance music with singer Denny Pezzin, 5 – 9 pm, center stage.

• 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 • 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.

Punta Gorda’s own Jim Morris performs Trop Rock Music from 5 – 9 pm on the center stage.

Dance the night away to oldies tunes with The Doo Wop Crew, 5 – 9 pm on the center stage. Fishermen’s Village is on the waterfront in Punta Gorda. Call 800-639-0020 for details.

Charlotte County!

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888-670-0040

Lifestyles After 50 Is Your Connection To The Seniors Of Charlotte County Lifestyles After 50 • July 2013 • page 30

CMC_Halfpage_Ad.pdf

American Humor

(Editor’s note: There is much happening in our country today which is not funny, not humorous. Much is sad and disheartening. However, we as Americans have a history of being able to laugh at ourselves. So, have a few laughs this month as you celebrate our freedom!) Say, do you happen to know Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address? No, I didn’t even know he had moved home. Joe: I can trace my ancestors all the way back to Columbus. Bud: Back to 1492? Joe: No, to Ohio.

What breed of dog rides a horse named Macaroni? Yankee poodle!

She’s always late. Her ancestors arrived in America on the June Flower.

“You should be ashamed,” the father told his son, “When Abraham Lincoln was your age, he used to walk ten miles every day to get to school.” “Really?” the kid said. “Well, when he was your age, he was president.”

5:31 PM

JANUARY 19-26 | 2014

The National Short-Sleeved Shirt Association says: Support your right to bare arms!

“This is a test of the Emergency Broadcast System. If this had been an actual emergency, do you really think we’d stick around to tell you?”

2/19/13

“Real Country Music… a Real Good Time!” GRAND TURK

SAN JUAN

S T. M A A R T E N

H A L F M O O N C AY

HOLLAND AMERICA M/S EURODAM

Q: How many American tourists does it take to change a light bulb in a foreign country? A: Fifteen. Five to figure out how much the bulb costs in local currency, four to comment on how “funny looking” the light bulbs are, three to hire a local person to change the bulb, two to take pictures and one to buy postcards in case the pictures didn’t come out.

VINCE GILL

KENNY ROGERS

RONNIE MILSAP

Keep Cool At The Library A MY

JO DEE MESSINA

RESTLESS HEART

ANDY GRIGGS

WADE HAYES

TY HERNDON

JAMIE O’NEAL

WARREN BROTHERS

BRYAN WHITE

HOST:

PLUS COUNTRY MUSIC’S #1 PARTY BAND CHUCK MEAD (OF BR 549) & HIS GRASSY KNOLL BOYS

& THE GATLIN BROTHERS

CMY

All programs are free and open to the public. A sign language interpreter is available with five business days notice to library staff. Information about Lee County Library System is available for your convenience 24/7 at leelibrary.net where you can find out about library services, programs, locations, view an online events calendar or place a hold on library items. Telephone reference is available at 239-479-4636. K

e TS th EN m D ro SI d f RE o an DA n t S 3 RI io TE 1/1 O at FL rt RA /3 R po N 5 s FO an FA IL r L NT ER h T IA U FF c EC LE O oa L C SP AB IA tor Y! AIL EC Mo RR AV U SP y r H LY xu N Lu O

LORIANNE CROOK

TOLL FREE 855.332.6868 855.33COUNTRY

r Po

CountryMusicCruise.com

Examples of events: uly 23 Chess Anyone? Rise to the chess challenge and join the fun. Everyone is welcome. Bring a personal chess set, if preferred. 5:30 to 6:30 pm at Cape Coral – Lee County Public Library. 239-533-4533. ug 5 Books ‘N Bites. Monthly social hour to discuss books or movies that have piqued your interest. Coffee and refreshments provided. 10:30 am to 11:30 am at North Fort Myers Library. 239-533-4320.

EE FR

ll the libraries of the Lee County Library System offer a large and varied selection of programs, classes and activities for people of all ages throughout the year. Adult programs include free computer, budgeting, coupon, car care, craft, scrapbooking, Chess, foreign films, photography, genealogy and literacy programs as well as author presentations and book and poetry discussions to name a few! “If you don’t find a program you are interested in you can always suggest a program to your neighborhood library,” says Sheldon Kaye, Lee County Library System Director. “These programs truly enrich the community. Whether the programs are for fun or for educational purposes, the programs are entertaining and are offered all throughout the year.”

PATTY LOVELESS

LARRY GATLIN

Lifestyles After 50 • July 2013 • page 31

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