Mature Lifestyles October 2011 Southwest edition

VOLUME 22, NUMBER 10

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Rails & Tales – Lake Neccudah

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Northern Ireland Treasures

• Just What the Doctor Ordered • New Technology Benefits Seniors • Tales of the Frugal Couponer • Investing in an Aging World

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Mature Lifestyles • October 2011 • page 2

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Mature Lifestyles • October 2011 • page 9/26/11 4:43 PM3

RVers and Florida—a Grand Love Affair

a ready-made group when the sun sets over the campground—finding neighboring RVers with whom to ust look at that couple share a glass of wine or even dinner. on the cover! Truth be I read that Prince Philip, the Duke told, there are many ways of Edinburgh, has been a patron of to live life in retirement England’s Caravan Club since 1952. and this one may be the best. Just maybe the ideal Janice Doyle, I doubt that he hits the open road as Editor a camper much, especially now that retirement is spending a he’s turned 90, but that doesn’t mean few years driving a comfortable RV he hasn’t wanted to. around our beautiful United States Remember the during the summer and ending up in classic VW CampFlorida for the mild winter weather. ervans of the early RVing is pretty awesome with to70s—filled with day’s RV interiors that rival a luxury American families home in décor and convenience. off to see YellowAs winter approaches, we Floridstone or painted in ians say let the migration of snowpsychedelic colors birds and RVers begin! Although and full of hippies? no one knows for sure, estimates According to a range from one million up as to the recent article in the Financial Times, number of seniors who spend some nostalgic investors are going bonor all of their winters in Florida. kers for those classics. Buy an old one and you can have it renovated Why an RV and why Florida? and retrofitted (to include TV, etc.)

Why RV? Dave Kelly, president at costs of, oh, maybe $20,000. of the Florida RV Association, says RVer John Laktin says for him many people RV because they have there’s all of the above as well as “the memories of camping with parents lure of the open road and seeing the or grandparents as children. “They’re country at our own speed.” His wife reliving the past,” Kelly says. “They Lois loves “setting up for a night or a enjoy the campfires, but they want week in a campground and stepping their conveniences”—conveniences which are found in today’s luxury RVs. out the door into woods and fresh air.”

They enjoy the socialization, too, In fact, mobile homes, campers and the contentment of inviting the camptents have always attracted certain ers next door to sit for an evening types of people. Opinions vary (usuenjoying idle conversation and comally by how much you yourself enjoy paring life stories. (I hear there may the activity) as to whether campbe some lies along the way, as well. ers are the independent type, those What was actually said was, “Janice, interested in the outdoors or people you can be anything you want to be who are loners. Today, they’re just as for one evening around the campfire, apt to be socialites who like to have

Dear Readers,

J

impress the heck out of people and leave before they find out you’re a total jerk or a complete nobody.”

Hmmm. Interesting thought.)

According to Dave Kelly, Florida offers a great many reasons for making the state a temporary home in the comfort of an RV. Of course, the weather in January is a major factor, but he also says that Florida offers “so many dealers that provide the products and services” for buying and maintaining an RV. Compared to many places up north, competition among dealers here assures owners of being able to get a good deal.

Kelly said Florida boasts 110,000 RV sites in 800 RV parks with an estimated five million campers visiting each year (not just seniors), making RVing a huge and valuable industry for our state. It doesn’t take much to imagine how much that means to our economy with purchases of gas, groceries, entrance fees, etc.

So, if you’re sitting outside your RV reading while enjoying your cup of coffee, we’re glad you’re here. And, hey, invite us over to share an evening—there are a lot of ‘wannabe’ RVers living here in Florida too.

P.S. The couple in the cover picture lives in North Port, Florida. We love them!

On The Road Again — Living The RV Life!

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his year, I knocked a big one off my bucket list when I took a camping trip to Yellowstone and the Tetons.

I tend to travel alone on trips like these, as most of my friends are attached to home and internet access. But one thing I’ve learned over the years is that you’re never alone when you’re camping. There’s a camraderie among campers and RVers.When the whole Mature Lifestyles • October 2011 • page 4

country is your backyard, everybody’s your neighbor, and I’ve found this philosophy holds true no matter where I travel.

I was pitching a tent in the Tetons when two senior RVing couples noticed that I was alone and offered to share their dinner with me. Dave and Karen, Brent and Marilyn were on a road trip from Twin Falls Idaho, spending retirement exploring America. We

talked all evening about grandkids and tall tales, places they’ve seen and where they’re headed next.

It may seem like a simple life to some—living on the road, sharing hamburgers with strangers—but for most RVers it’s a chance to make new friends and live life to its fullest, and I’ll never forget their hospitality. Happy Trails! ––Tracie Schmidt, Production

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

Publisher, President: Kathy J. Beck kathy@srmagazine.com Editor: Janice Doyle Accounting: Vicki Willis Production Supervisor Graphic Design: Kim Burrell Production Assistant: Tracie Schmidt Customer Service: 1-888-670-0040 customerservice@srmagazine.com Lee/Collier and Charlotte Counties – Southwest Edition Associate Publisher: Dave Kelly: (239) 823-3542 Sarasota/Manatee Edition Dave Tarantul (941) 375-6260

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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 November 2011 issue is October 15, 2011.

Magazines are out by the 7th of each month.

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Around Town

W H AT ’ S H A P P E N I N G O C T O B E R 2 0 1 1

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hursdays 2nd Chance Dance with The Second Act Band and sounds of the 40s, 50s and 60s.

BYOB and snacks. 7 to 9 p.m. $7 per person. Starting Thursday, Oct. 20. Lake Kennedy Senior Center, 400 Santa Barbara Blvd., Cape Coral. Call (239) 574-0575.

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Chocolate Fair at Cape Coral Yacht Club Ballroom. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free admission; many chocolate vendors. Phone (239) 574-0807 for more information.

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Victorian ghost stories with tea and cake in the parlor of Lady Octavia Ashford at the Burroughs Home & Gardens, 2505 First St. 1 p.m. $25. 28 Spirits on the Gulf wine and delicacies served up with ghostly tales. 7 p.m. Living history tours every Friday morning at 11 a.m. Tours – $10; Lunch – $10.

Information at (239) 337-0706 or Burroughshome.com.

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Dinner and Show at Cape Coral Yacht Club Ballroom. 50s through 80s music and tribute to Doo Wop & Motown. BYOB. Doors open at 6 p.m. 7 to 10 p.m.

Admission is $24. Phone (239) 574-0807 for information.

19

Halloween BINGO Extravaganza at Cultural Center of Charlotte County. Dinner at 4:30 p.m.; Bingo at 6:30 p.m.

Face Paint or mask for chance for special prizes!

Tickets are $35 with dinner ($25 for BINGO only). Tickets at (941) 625-4175 ext. 212.

21

– 23 and 28 – 30 Oktoberfest at German American Social Club. 2101 SW Pine Island Rd., Cape Coral. Music, drinks.

4 p.m. – midnight. Info at gasccapecoral.com. (239) 283-1400.

20

Preview the new Millennium Cognitive Café Brain Fitness Center, 3525 Bonita Beach Rd., Ste. 107, Bonita Springs. Noon to 3 p.m. 21 from 4 to 7 p.m. (239) 676-8034 or brainfitnesscafe.com.

22

Fall Festival at Fort Myers Christian Church. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free games, rides, displays and food. Bake sale. 5916 Winkler Rd. Call (239) 433-9696.

22

“Fall for the Arts” event by Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd. Fort Myers. Free.

10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Live music, theatrical performances, demonstrations and much more. $35/Alliance members; $50/non-members. Visit Artinlee.org or call (239) 939-2787.

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Marco Island Beach Music Festival. Music, food, activities. Proceeds benefit American Cancer Society. Marriott Hotel, 400 S. Collier Blvd., Marco Island.

Information at 800-438- 4873 or marcoislandbeachmusicfest.com.

Casino Style Games & Internet!

12135 S. Cleveland Ave. • Fort Myers, FL 33907

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Cancer Awareness Bicycle Ride. 10, 20, and 30-mile routes start at Danny’s Downtown Restaurant, Punta Gorda. $25/ lunch, etc. Register at Acme Bike Shop or active.com/INFO or (941) 258-3400.

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ov. 4 and 5 Holiday Craft Bazaar

by Shell Point Crafters Group from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Arts, crafts and jewelry by residents. Woodlands Commons at Shell Point Village.

Onsite restaurants available for lunch or snack. Door prizes. Free admission. Call (239) 454-2057 for details.

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. October 10 for November event.)

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Mature Lifestyles • October 2011 • page 5

They say you’re as young as you feel. we agree.

There’s a good chance the SilverSneakers® Fitness Program is offered by your Medicare health plan, Medicare Supplement carrier or retiree group as one of your benefits. A SilverSneakers membership includes access to all basic amenities, group exercise classes, health education and fun social activities at nearly 10,000 fitness locations. Don’t miss out on one of the best ways to be healthy and stay independent! Visit www.silversneakers.com or call 1-888-423-4632 today to find out if you already have this great benefit.

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Mature Lifestyles • October 2011 • page 6

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Conductor Michael Hall and the Southwest Florida Symphony.

ickets are now available for The Southwest Florida Symphony concerts to be held at Shell Point Retirement Community’s Village Church. Buy tickets for two concert performances for $32 ($20 each for individual concerts). Those two are Schumann and Brahms on November 7 and Bruch and Beethoven on March 23.

The symphony orchestra presents “Timeless Treasure—Holiday Pops” concert on December 19 and includes vocalist Sara Dell’Omo. Tickets for this concert are available now for $25.

To purchase tickets or for more information, please call (239) 4542067 or visit shellpoint.org/concerts.

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Education, Awareness and Volunteers Keep Lee County Beautiful

BY JANICE DOYLE

S

ome things are very simple in Rudy Busch’s mind. For example, he would say that if you educate the public, they will work together to “Keep Lee County Beautiful.” That philosophy has served him well during 22 years as Executive Director of Keep Lee County Beautiful (KLCB).

Success is measured in tons of trash that was not on the Gulf beaches and inland rivers of Lee County this year compared to twenty—or even ten—years ago.

Some of his plans seem quite simple, like the signs and the 30 shiny litter receptacles placed at handy spots along the beach. But the truth is that as the beaches are cleaner, people are proud of that and help keep them clean.

Other plans came from citizens and took coordinating and insight by someone who knew how to get it done, like Busch. Several years ago when foreclosed and abandoned homes became a blight in Cape Coral neigh-

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time and talent with borhoods, 70 residents the community’s identified the problem business sector. and asked for help.

Last month, Busch Busch said, “Several coordinated the Coastal private corporations Cleanup in Lee County got together and (an event held around provided a commercial the world on the third mower, shovels, rakes, Saturday of every yard equipment.

Volunteers clean and sort September). Over Volunteers went litter on land and sea.

2,000 volunteers, out every Saturday including to clean up. They seven busloads cleaned up 1300 of school kids, abandoned properparticipated. ties last year. The An important economy has feature of Coastal improved this year, Cleanup is the but volunteers still use of a data card by each group of do six or seven properties each week.” volunteers to “document every single KLCB serves as “a conduit between thing that is put in a trash bag.” the public and private sector.” The Does it matter? Yes, says Busch. “We KLCB slogan is “Volunteers REALLY can tell by the decreasing tonnage year DO make it happen.” But, adds Busch, after year that education and awareness volunteers can’t do it without the have made a difference. There’s no support of the corporate and business comparison in the illegal dumping groups, and so he combines volunteers 20 years ago compared to today.” who have the valuable resources of

Lee County has made a name for itself with its Waste-to-Energy plant where every pound of solid waste is turned into energy. “We didn’t lobby for it.

We educated so people wanted the most efficient and cleanest system.”

What can you do? “We have 18 grass roots programs,” said Busch. “We use all kinds of talent and experience and interests.” Find your niche to help Keep Lee County Beautiful!

Some of the programs: • Litter Lookout • Great American Cleanup every spring.

• Monofilament Madness (Oct. 30) to find fishing line and save our birds.

• Leave the Scene Clean Calendar Art Contest • Litter-free event planning for groups • Adopt a Shore The Keep Lee County Beautiful office is at 8211 College Parkway, Ste. 182, Ft. Myers. To volunteer, call (239) 3343488 or visit their website at klcb.org.

Please enclose this form with your entry. (make sure to sign the bottom) Your n i d n e Mail to: News Connection USA, S ow!

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Selected photos will be published in upcoming issues of Mature Lifestyles magazine. Photos will be on display at the Senior Friendly Extravaganza, November 4, 2011 at the Harborside Event Center, 1375 Monroe St. Ft. Myers 33901.

Call 1-888-670-0040 for more information.

X1st Place Winner $75 X 2nd Place Winner $50 X 3rd Place $25 X Grand Prize Winner $125 Mature Lifestyles • October 2011 • page 8

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NO professional photos. Please no photos by e-mail.

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Mature Lifestyles • October 2011 • page 9

Rails and Tales—Meet the Mayor of Lake Neccudah

BY TRACIE SCHMIDT

I

n a quiet mountain valley, about 45 minutes north of Denver, there’s a town you won’t find on any map.

You’ll know it by the rumble of the train tracks and the clear reflection of the Rockies on the town’s namesake: Lake Neccudah.

The mayor can trace his roots back to turn-of-the-20th century settlers who reclaimed the city after the mining bust had left it all but a ghost town.

An imposing man, he towers over the city—quite literally—as he monitors the comings and goings of the town’s residents and two major rail lines.

of your focus, so you have no room to think about your problems,” he laughs.

Between 60 and 70 buildings, cars, three trains and over 400 people are all airbrushed or painstakingly hand-painted. If there’s one thing he’s a stickler for, it’s HO scale—a standard among train modelers.

“These are not toys, they’re miniatures,” he emphasises, “and I want to make everything as authentic as possible.”

The Saga of Lake Neccudah The mayor gave me the grand tour, and as the Lake Neccudah Pacific chugged over mountain passes and into town, past Bingham Lumber, Riverbend Campground, the local soda fountain and elementary school, I couldn’t help but get caught up in the small stories unfolding below me. In one part of town, folks were skinny dipping at a pool party while others gathered at a local fairground to celebrate “Founder’s Day.” “I would bring people in to see the layout, and I just started developing stories about the townsfolk,” Bingham shares.

He began writing them down to keep everything together and ended up with a 200 page manuscript. He was planning on publishing it when one of his friends suggested that he start a webCharles (Chuck) Bingham, an actual site so that others could see his town resident of Valrico, FL, has been buildand share its story. A few months later, ing this fictional town by hand for the Saga of Lake Neccudah was online. about 16 years. Using wood, asphalt tile, sawdust, paint, scale models, The Community panoramic murals and other materials, At Lake Neccudah’s site, you can Bingham has transformed a room in read the history of the town in full and his house into a bustling western town catch up on the latest news, photos and that has taken on a life of its own. anecdotes from the residents. Visitors “My grandfather in England, Samuel can watch videos of police reports and Dunwell, was a railroad engineer, take an aerial tour of the city, or if they and I have been fascinated by trains like, rent an apartment in town and since I could remember,” Bingham become part of the story themselves. says about the inspiration behind Bingham was surprised by how his town. “My dad would take me quickly a simple hobby could down to the station and I loved to become an interactive world. watch them coming and going.”

“I got going on this, and it just kind of His model started small, as a way grew! Right now, I have visitors from to relax after a long day’s work.

173 cities and 22 different countries,” “I’d come home, I’d be all stressed, Bingham says. He expects the town to but then I would put on my magnifier, grow even more in the years ahead. take out my finest bristle brush and To learn more, visit lakeneccudah.com start painting miniatures. It takes all or e-mail chuck@lakeneccudah.com.

Mature Lifestyles • October 2011 • page 10

Lake Neccudah: History and Fun Facts ingham came up with the name “Lake Neccudah” using an anagram of his name, his wife’s and his daughter’s. But according to myth, Lake Neccudah takes its name from a loosely translated Indian phrase meaning “where the mountains meet the plains.”

B

• Lake Neccudah was founded on July 29, 1859 to support miners who worked the Colorado gold rush from 1858 – 1861.

• In late 1873, five local merchants pooled their resources and founded the Lake Neccudah Rail Road Company to serve the area’s mining and growing agricultural businesses.

• In 1947 a British immigrant named Harold Bingham came to Lake Neccudah seeking to rebuild a life for his wife and two small sons. The current mayor (who is famous for his pool parties) is a direct descendant!

• Every October, Lake Neccudah residents host an annual “Harvest Days” festival to give thanks for blessings.

start your own model train hobby:

odel trains have been around since the 1890s—from intricate clockwork models made in Germany to electric-powered, made-to-scale Lionel trains. There are sets for every collector, and their size and detail are limited only by the builder (and his budget). The largest model train in the world is the Miniatur Wunderland in Hamburg, Germany: miniatur-wunderland.com.

Bingham spent around $12,000 over the course of several years building Lake Neccudah. Part of it was handmade, but a savvy collector knows how to get parts for less. When he first started out, he would look for models at swap meets, finding deals and exchanging stories with fellow enthusiasts.

“The internet has killed local hobby

M

shop meets,” Bingham admits sadly.

However, there are still great deals to be found online, and if you’re willing to make the trip, regional train shows are great places to go model-hunting.

Parts Online: internettrains.com; modeltrainstuff.com.

Train Shows: The Great Train Expo: trainexpoinc.com; 61st H&R Train Show: hrtrains.com.

Can’t get enough trains? Or maybe you’re just starting out and you need a few tips from the pros.

Try joining a local model railroad club, and meet some friends.

Nearby club: Scale Rails of Southwest Florida, Ft. Myers: scalerails.org.

Or, check out a local railroad museum: RealRail: realrail.org; Florida Railroad Museum: frrm.org.

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Problem Free Silver Coins • Pre-1964

Gold Coins

Dimes ............ 90¢ & up Quarters...... $2.25 & up Half Dollars . $4.50 & up Half 1965-70 .. 65¢ & up Dollars 1935 & Before .......$12.00 & up

$1.00..............$90 & up $2.50............$150 & up $3.00............$500 & up $4.00.......$15,000 & up $5.00............$215 & up $10.00..........$425 & up $20.00..........$900 & up

625-0666

Tiffany • Loetz • Daum • Handel Pairpoint • Cameo • Art Glass

4200 TAMIAMI TRAIL, PORT CHARLOTTE Call For Home and Bank Appointments

Mon. – Fri. 10 to 6 • Sat. 10:30 – 4:00

Sterling Flatware, Tea Sets, Bronzes, Silver & Gold Boxes, Enameled Objects, Dolls, Mechanical Toys, Military Items Mature Lifestyles • October 2011 • page 11

World Series Baseball Thoughts

Oktoberfest

Saturday, October 8th, 2011 Family friendly FREE festivities include:

◆ 10 am-6 pm East Elementary School PTO Pumpkin Patch ◆ 10:00 am-10:30 am, Center Court, performances by East Elementary and Sallie Jones School Chorus ◆ 11 am-12 Noon, Center Court 2nd Annual Wiener Dog Derby ◆ 2-4 pm, Center Stage Steinswingers Oompah Band performing German and Bavarian Polkas, Waltzes and Marches ◆ 5-9 pm, Center Stage Schuplattler Gruppe Alpenrose dancers and Peter & Edith performing your favorite German tunes ◆ Village restaurants will feature German food specialties.

Fishermen’s Village is located off Marion Avenue in Punta Gorda.

From I-75 take exit #164, turn left onto Hwy. 17 and proceed 3 miles to the Village.

For more information, call 941 639-8721 or visit Fishville.com. Follow us on

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hot dog at the ball game beats roast beef at the Ritz.

—Humphrey Bogart

Baseball is the only field of endeavor where a man can succeeed three times out of 10 and be considered a good performer. —Ted Williams

No game in the world is as tidy and dramatically neat as baseball, with cause and effect, crime and punishment, motive and result, so cleanly defined. —Paul Gallico

Baseball is almost the only orderly thing in a very unorderly world. If you get three strikes, even the best lawyer in the world can’t get you off. —Bill Veeck

5th Annual Welcome Back Collector Car Show!

S

ave the date! On November 12, 2011, check out the 5th Annual Welcome Back Collector Car Show and Open House presented by the Veteran Motor Car Club of America, S.W. Florida Region.

See antique cars from 1910 to 1987 and enjoy live music, office

tours, food and beverages. Free admission and parking to the public.

The show will be held at the Sun Newspapers Offices, 23170 Harborview Rd., Port Charlotte, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, please call Don Royston at (941) 575-0202.

A 55 and Over Resident Owned Adult Community on the Caloosahatchee River in North Ft. Myers, Florida

800-676-3005 • 239-543-3005

50 AVAILABLE LOTS FOR NEW HOMES! • Lease or purchase your waterfront or interior lot.

• 24 hr. Manned Gated Entry • Two Pools and Spa • Social Activities for All • Marina with Boat Launch and Slips.

Directions:

I-75, Exit 143 (Bayshore Road).

West 4 miles to New Post Road.

Turn left and follow to security gate.

Driving East on Bayshore, we’re 2 miles East of Business 41.

Pet Section Available Old Bridge Village Co-op, Inc. Licensed Real Estate Corporation

14533 Paul Revere Loop, North Fort Myers, FL 33917 • website: www.oldbridgevillage.net • Hours: M – F 9 – 4, Sat. 10 – 3 and Sun. by appt.

Mature Lifestyles • October 2011 • page 12

The Best of Charlotte County

October 2011

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“The “Kool Kats,” Francine and Chris, play a mix of standards and contemporary music every Mon. evening. Doors open at 6:30. Complimentary cake and coffee at 9 p.m. Refreshments are available. Cost: $5.

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Bingo from 11:45 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. in Centennial Hall. Game packs start at $12.

• Oktoberfest: Oct. 8. Pumpkin Patch from10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Student chorus, Wiener dog derby, German Oompah band and Schuplattler Gruppe Alpenrose dancers throughout the day. German food specialties. Vote for your favorite scarecrow in “Scarecrows on Parade” for a chance to win a prize! Free admission. Fishermen’s Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. (941) 575-3007.

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• Hook Kids on Fishing: Oct 15. Bring your grandkids for clinics on fishing, conservation, fishing safety and knot tying. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. First 100 kids to register (ages 6 –16) receive free rod, reel and tackle box. Fishermen’s Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. Pre-registration required. Call (941) 639-0969.

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

• Fall For the Arts Festival: Oct. 22. A free family event. Watch area performing groups dance, sing, play instruments and act in mini-performance on the open air amphitheater. Visual artists demonstrate their talents in painting, drawing, sculpting and mixed media demonstrations. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Alliance for the Arts,10091 McGregor Blvd. , Fort Myers. (239) 939-2787.

Join Us For Our Nov. 2011 Edition!

Helping Hands

7

Singer/Guitarist Ron Harrison performs, 5 – 9 p.m., Center Stage.

12

Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7 – 9 p.m., Center Court. (941) 575-8188.

22

Fine Arts & Crafts Show, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Free admission.

Call (352) 344-0657.

Fun Events Near Charlotte County Halloween Bingo at the Charlotte Cultural Center.Tricks and Treats for everyone!

Halloween Dinner at 4:30 p.m., Bingo at 6:30 p.m. Come face-painted or masked and receive a chance for special prizes, including free Bingo packages! Tickets are $35 with dinner ($25 for Bingo only). First 50 to buy a Bingo ticket will receive a free 6 on Bingo cards. To order tickets, please call (941) 625-4175 ext. 212 or visit the Cultural Center Finance Office: 2280 Aaron Street, Port Charlotte.

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FEATURED EVENTS

and 19 Pinochle: Tues. from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Contract Bridge: Weds. from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Happy Halloween!

• 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.

Give Thanks!

Senior Centers and Resources • 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.

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Annual Barktoberfest Pet Costume Contest. 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., Center Court.

Presented by Salty Paws. Pre-registration required. Please call (941) 575-7599 for more info.

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 • October 2011 • page 13

Veterans Corner

News and Observations for Veterans Veterans Promotion – AARP Driving Course is Free during November ll military personnel over 55— active duty, retired, guard, or reserve—are eligible to receive a free DSP (Driver Safety Program) classroom course during November. Spouses (including widows and widowers) are also eligible to take the class as space permits.

All participating veterans must complete a Veteran Participant Form, to be provided by the instructor during the course. All registrations will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.

The offer does not apply to online courses. There are no exceptions to this rule.

To locate a course, call the national toll free number 1-888-227-7669 or online at aarp.org/findacourse.

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Barrington Terrace Assisted Living and Memory Care

• Unique building designed for seniors - no stairs, steps or elevators • Wellness Center under the direction of an R.N. • Specially designed neighborhood to meet the needs of residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other memory impairments • On-site Rehabilitation and Restorative Care • Knowledgeable staff with over 150 years of combined experience

• Affordable pricing with uncompromised care

2010 THE BEST OF SOUTHWEST FL RECIPIENT CALL TODAY FOR MORE INFORMATION Shared Suite Options • Respite Stay Program

23 9/334- 2500 DON’T JUST TAKE OUR WORD: “The lifestyle at Barrington Terrace is great...mom is busier than we are some days!” ~ Family Member

BARRINGTON TERRACE OF FT. MYERS 9731 Commerce Center Court, Ft. Myers, FL 33908

239/334-2500 • www.bt-ftmyers.com Assisted Living Facility #10100

Mature Lifestyles • October 2011 • page 14

Hang up and Log on!

24/7 Access to VA Prescriptions is now possible with My HealtheVet. With two clicks of your computer mouse VA Prescriptions can be filled by registering for My HealtheVet! Online programs include View Appointments, Health Calendar, Secure Messaging and Online Prescription Refill.

To start, first, visit MyHealth.va.gov and register for a basic account.

Check “VA Patient” when registering. Once registered as a “VA Patient” on My HealtheVet, go to “Prescription Refill” to start. VA Prescriptions can be refilled any time from any computer with internet access.

My HealtheVet has other features to help take charge of your health. By upgrading with a one-time In Person Authentication (IPA) you can use upgraded features. This includes Secure Messaging, Wellness Reminders and Appointments. To upgrade, watch the IPA Video, print the form and bring it in to a local VA facility. Once upgraded, you have access to current and future My HealtheVet features.

Learn more about My HealtheVet by visiting MyHealth.va.gov or contacting Todd Wright, My HealtheVet Coordinator, at (618) 997-5311

VHA Services Report VHA (Veterans Health Administration) services were found to be either similar or better than the private sector for several chronic disease treatments, including cancer, researchers reported in the medical journal Annals of Internal Medicine.

Hero Miles for Wounded Warriors Having family around helps wounded warriors find a new “normal” in their life. The Hero Miles program provides family members commercial airline flights to the injured service member in the hospital or to rehabilitation programs through donated frequent flyer airline miles.

The 2005 Defense Authorization Act created Operation Hero Miles.

Currently, Air Tran, Alaska, American, Delta, Frontier, United-Continental and U.S. Airways participate in the program. Participants in the frequent flyer miles programs may donate their miles to Hero Miles through the airline’s frequent flyer program. Fisher House has information on their Hero Miles website with details about the process (fisherhouse.org/programs/hero-miles).

The process for a family member to use Hero Miles usually begins when a caseworker in military or Veterans Administration medical facilities refers a family member to apply for a flight to join their injured or wounded Airman.

The Hero Miles administrator coordinates the request from a servicemember or their families with the caseworker and makes the airline reservations.

To date, Hero Miles has provided more than 25,000 airline tickets donated by American people to servicemembers and their families.

There is at least one Fisher House at every major military medical center to assist families in need and to ensure that they are provided with the comforts of home in a supportive environment.

Monthly Plan * Premium Attention Florida Residents with Medicare…

Annual Election Period ends December 7, 2011.

Get a Medicare Advantage plan that’s right for you.

BlueMedicareSM Regional PPO includes: > No monthly plan premium* > No referrals > Freedom to choose your doctors and hospitals nationwide > Prescription drug, dental, vision and hearing coverage included > $0 copayments for home delivery pharmacy (90-day supply of generics)** > Exclusive Member Discount Programs and online coupons for popular products

Get your FREE Information Kit now!

Choose one of these convenient ways to find out more…

Call toll-free 1-800-617-7294 24 hours a day, everyday.

(TTY users dial 1-800-955-8771.)

Visit us online at www.flbluemedicare.com/value.

Stop by your local Florida Blue center or contact your local agent.

*You must continue to pay the Medicare Part B premium, unless paid by Medicaid or another third party. ** Excludes Tier 4 Generics.

A Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract and a Medicare-approved Part D sponsor.

These contracts are renewed annually, and the availability of coverage beyond the end of the current contract year is not guaranteed. Exclusions, limitations, copayments, coinsurance and deductibles may apply.

The benefit information provided herein is a brief summary, not a comprehensive description of benefits.

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida is an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

For more information contact the plan.

Y0011_71872RA 0911 File & Use 09192011 BMRPPO 72067-0911 Mature Lifestyles • October 2011 • page 15

Live Longer—Make Friends

W

hy are friends so great for our health? It turns out that friends may help us make healthier choices in food. And many psychologists now think that without a strong base of social support, people are much more vulnerable to the damaging effects of stressful living.

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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. ®

• Meal preparation/cooking • Companion Care • Overnight and 24-hour Care • Doctor Appointments • Transportation

• Shopping • Housekeeping Services • Memory loss assistance • Sight impaired assistance • and much more!

Licensed #232083 • Bonded • Insured

Call us today! It’s like getting a little help from your friends

®

Phone: (239)-243-8555 Email: helpingseniors@comcast.net www.seniorshelpingseniors.com/SouthwestFlorida/ ©2011 Each office is independently owned and operated. All trademarks are registered trademarks of Corporate Mutual Resources Inc. Not all services available in all areas.

Mature Lifestyles2 • October 2011 • page 16 Evan 6-21-2011.indd

6/20/2011 2:17:47 PM

Better with Age In a recent study, seniors over 70 who kept in touch with friends were less likely to die over a 10-year period— phone contact counted too.

Life Support Is your crew undermanned? It’s never too late to make friends. Reach out! Others will do the same for you.

Make A Difference Day

or more than 20 years, USA WEEKEND Magazine and HandsOn Network have joined together to sponsor Make A Difference Day, the largest national day of community service. Make A Difference Day is a celebration of neighbors helping neighbors. Millions of Americans will unite in a common mission to improve the lives of others on Make A Difference Day, Saturday, October 22, 2011.

Thousands of projects are planned each year from coast to coast involving corporations, communities, nonprofit organizations, entire states and individual Americans.

Make A Difference Day is supported

by Newman’s Own, which provides $10,000 donations to charities selected by each of 10 national honorees.

On October 22, HandsOn Network together with USA WEEKEND and Newman’s Own will not only seize the moment to inspire, equip and mobilize corporations, nonprofit organizations, families and individuals of all ages to improve their communities, but also engage them to Get HandsOn! throughout the year.

Make A Difference Day is the most encompassing national day of helping others.

Everyone can participate. Find a need in your community and use the

power of Make A Difference Day to mobilize your family, your neighbors, even your entire town into a day of action. Last year, on its 20th Anniversary, more than 3 million Americans volunteered to help an estimated 20 million people in need of food, clothing, shelter, care and love.

RSVP of Lee County, locally sponsored by Senior Friendship Centers, will be involved in this day of service as part of the Corporation for National and Community Service. There will be several events occurring within Lee County. Past projects have included cleanup projects in neighborhoods, yard work and house cleaning for frail seniors, and collecting toiletries for those in need. Please join us in helping our neighbors and community members. If you are interested in becoming involved in your community, contact Margaret Baugher at 275-1881 ext. 203 or visit daytabank. handsonnetwork.org/ to find all the opportunities in your county.

John Kagan, M.D.

Michael Jugan, D.O.

FUL L S PECTR UM OF TR EATMENT

• Sports injury • Work-related injury • Age, heredity, disease

Pedro Monserrate, M.D.

Peter Curcione, D.O.

Athletic Orthopedic and Reconstructive Center offers a full spectrum of sports medicine and reconstructive orthopaedic care including the surgical and non-surgical treatment of sports and work-related injuries and orthopaedic conditions caused by age, heredity and disease.

Our team of board certified orthopaedic surgeons specialize in the following: • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome • Arthroscopy • Fracture Care • Sports Injuries • Knee, Hip, Shoulder, Hand • Fracture Care and Foot Surgery • Arthritis Surgery Team physicians for the Everblades,Miracle baseball and several local high school football teams.

For a consultation or to attend a free seminar call one of our offices today.

www.bone-fix.com

3210 Cleveland Ave. Suite 100 Fort Myers, FL 33901 239-936-6778

2721 Del Prado Blvd.

Suite 260 Cape Coral, FL 33904 239-574-0011

3400 Lee Blvd.

Suite 105 Lehigh Acres, FL 33971 239-368-8277 Mature Lifestyles • October 2011 • page 17

Fort Myers Presbyterian Apartments 16 story highrise on the Caloosahatchee River, near the Edison Ford Winter Estates

Residents must be 62 or older

Apartments start at $346/month

Check us out on phhf.com

Maximum allowable income for an individual - $34,550 Maximum allowable income for a two-member household - $39,450

Remain on Your Feet

BY YVONNE CURLEY

T

V made everyone familiar with the phrase “Help, I’ve fallen and I can’t get up,” the trademark of Life Alert Emergency Response.

Most everyone over 50 is aware of the potential for bad falls and the subsequent need for medical assistance. But it’s true that falls and frailty can make independent living impossible. In the book The Science of Staying Young, authors John Morley and Sheri Colberg say that the best course is knowing how to prevent falls in the first place.

1925 Virginia Ave. • Fort Myers, FL 33901

What it means Fake it until you make it. Rather than curling up into a ball when in pain, this research suggests that a person should do the opposite. Curling up in a ball may make the experience more painful because it will make you feel like you have no control over your circumstances, which may in turn intensify your anticipation of the pain. Standing or sitting up straight Mature Lifestyles • October 2011 • page 18

• Food-associated low blood pressure

• Environmental factors (uneven surfaces, poor lighting for example)

• Sight problems (poor vision from cataracts, glaucoma or macular degeneration)

TDD 1-800-955-8771 Florida Relay.

Caregivers Need to Let Go Caregivers often try to baby those for whom they are caring to help make things easier and alleviate stress. In doing this, they force those they are caring for into a more submissive position.

This possibly renders their patients more susceptible to experiencing pain.

Rather, this research suggests that caregivers take a more submissive position and surrender control to those who are about to undergo a painful procedure to lessen the intensity of the pain experienced. (Newswise)

• Alcohol in excess

• Drugs (medication effects)

239-332-1050

creates a sense of power and control over a situation.

Keeping your chin up and assuming a dominant posture might really work to manage emotional pain.

It may be that it makes remembering a distressing emotional event less painful.

• Strength problems (particularly in quadriceps muscles)

• No freedom (restraints that keep you from being physically active)

a non-profit corp

others have been telling their children to stop slouching for ages. It turns out that mom was onto something and that poor posture not only makes a bad impression but can actually make you physically weaker.

According to a recent study, adopting dominant poses makes people feel more powerful, in control and able to tolerate more distress.

SAFE AND SOUND

• Artherosclerotic disease (fainting)

Fort Myers Presbyterian Apartments

Mom Was Right—Good Posture Makes You Tougher M

Two other things to know about falls is that dementia doubles the risk and that any new disease impacts your health even if it is only temporary.

The authors put the risk factors into an easy-to-remember form with SAFE AND SOUND:

• Orthostasis (dizziness or disorientation with standing)

One study showed that for every 287 calories per day those aged 70 to 82 expended doing anything active, they increased their chances of living longer by 68 percent.

Falling down occasionally is inevitable at any age, they state, and the more active you are the more apt you will be to fall at some point. They encourage readers to learn to minimize the impact of falls rather than stop being active in the hopes of not falling. One in three people over age sixty falls each year and 95 percent of all hip fractures are the result of falls.

The major risk factors for falls are muscular weakness, poor vision, medication effects, unsteady balance and getting up to go to the bathroom in the night. What to learn from this?

Keep healthy, strong, stable and physically active with special emphasis on balance and strength exercises.

• Unsteady balance

• Nocturia (frequent need to urinate during the night

• Delirium

Tips to prevent falls: Do your strength and flexibility exercises, remove floor clutter and throw rugs, correct your vision and improve lighting.

Simply said, the more active you remain, the less likely you are to lose that capacity. One study showed that for every 287 calories per day those aged 70 to 82 expended doing anything active, they increased their chances of living longer by 68 percent. The study included volunteering, walking, providing care to others and doing household chores.

Amazingly, the book notes that watching TV uses almost less energy than sleeping.

So, no matter your circumstances, move, move, move.

Just What the Doctor Ordered: Your Favorite Pastime

BY DR. JOSEPH MARKENSON

T

he social aspects of your golf game, spending time with your friends and family, may do wonders for your well-being, but chronic knee pain can make you feel like never lifting a club again.

Many of my patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA) have bought into the myth that physical activity will make knees feel worse. However, nothing could be further from the truth, with the right treatment plan. Regular physical activity has actually been shown to improve some arthritis symptoms and promote general health. So a round of golf with friends and family may be a good way to keep your knees working well.

Maintaining an active lifestyle can strengthen muscles, improve functionality and ease pain for people with knee OA.

The American College of Rheumatology recommends physical activity for managing the condition. While it may seem counterintuitive to do something that hurts in order to ease the pain, walking, aerobics and strength training have all been shown to do just that.

In fact, a study in the Annals of Internal Medicine showed that exercise and physical therapy improved function in people with knee OA and may have helped delay or prevent the need for surgery.

Researchers at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine recently concurred with earlier studies, saying that even a small increase in physical activity helped people with knee OA walk faster.

They also found that staying active reduced pain, depression and fatigue.

There is no “one-size-fits-all” way to treat knee OA. The unique nature of each individual’s condition usually requires the need for personal evaluation by a healthcare professional. That is why finding the right pain management regimen is an important part of helping patients get and stay active.

Treatments are tailored to each patient based on your individual needs. Options include over-thecounter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or, if pain is persistent, speak with your doctor about prescription treatments. Some of the latest advances in topical pain treatments include newer diclofenac applications, which can potentially

offer significant gastrointestinal safety benefits for certain patients. Beginning in 2000, a doctor-prescribed diclofenac patch, gel, and topical solution were approved separately for use in the United States.

Early action is key, and exercise is an important tool in treating OA. Walking 18 holes is the equivalent of walking 10,000 steps, making golf just one sport that may prove beneficial for people with knee OA. As with returning from any injury, it is important to stay motivated.

Whatever activity you choose, I recommend my patients record their progress and encourage their own movement. One way to do this is through the Arthritis Foundation’s Movement Tracker. To find out more information, visit www.arthritis.org.

Dr. Joseph Markenson is an attending physician at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City and professor of clinical medicine at Weill Cornell Medical College.

All Mammograms read and interpreted by local, board-certified radiologists Mammograms performed on the latest digital, state of the art equipment Eight locations in Southwest Florida & Mobile Mammo for your convenience

Mature Lifestyles • October 2011 • page 19

Free Long-Term Care Planning Guide For Women

Booklet Explains Issues And Options For Women With Spouses and Women Living Alone ong-term care affects more women the majority of than men, yet few women have done women over 50 anything to learn about their risks or under- estimate planning options. the risk of Women generally live longer lives than needing longmen and, as a result, are significantly more term care and likely to need long-term care. Women are have no plan far more likely to suffer from Alzheimer’s in place. The disease and almost one million women organization over age 65 currently reside in nursing reports that home settings versus 335,000 men. roughly twoJoseph Ferrara “Long-term care is clearly a woman’s thirds of the $6 issue”, explains Joseph Ferrara, President billion in yearly long-term care insurance of Joseph Ferrara Insurance Services claims benefits are paid to women. located in Ft. Myers. “Women provide Every woman over 50 needs to have a the majority of care for their spouses or plan in place, Ferrara explains. The best other aging family members, and because time to start is prior to retirement when they live longer than men are far more you have the greatest number of available likely to eventually need long-term care options to choose from. themselves”.

A free copy of A Woman’s Guide To Planning for long-term care is important Long-Term Care Insurance Protection for women who are married, living with published by AALTCI can be obtained partners or residing alone. According to by contacting: a study by the American Association for Joseph Ferrara at 239-931-9555 or Long-Term Care Insurance (AALTCI), by email at JFinsurance@msn.com.

L

Global Graying: Investing in an Aging World

BY JEFFREY SEWARD, JD, PH.D, Senior Vice President, Trust Services M&I Wealth Management

I

n the majority of the world’s countries, people are having fewer children and they are living longer.

Even in the least-developed parts of the world, for the past 20 years fertility rates have been steadily declining while life expectancies have been on the rise. Although the financial markets are influenced by many forces, especially over short time periods, demographic forces can have a powerful pull on long-term market performance.

Understanding how the three trends below may influence the performance of various investments may help you maximize your portfolio.

Finance Trend 1: More people around the world are in their prime earning years.

Right now, the world median age is about 29, though it’s close to 40 in developed countries. Middle-aged people in their prime earning years are more inclined to save than the young or old.

Result: A large and growing number of people are socking away money for retirement. As populations age, the supply of capital is likely to continue to grow, helping tamp down interest rates and support prices of financial assets.

What you can do: You may find it challenging to earn acceptable returns in a low interest rate environment.

Step up your savings while you can in the highest-yielding investments with which you’re comfortable.

Trend 2: People are living longer.

The average life expectancy worldwide now stands at almost 68 years. In developed regions, it’s about 77 years.

Result: Many people are postponing retirement and working longer. That, along with shaky public pension and healthcare programs, may motivate people to seek investments that retain the

Mature Lifestyles • October 2011 • page 20

buying power of their money over time, even if it means taking on greater risk.

What you can do: Despite the poor performance of the past decade, equities have historically outpaced inflation more consistently than other investments. There’s a strong case for maintaining a portion of your assets in equities, even after retirement.

Trend 3: The retiree segment is growing.

Not only is the world getting older, but the population of older persons is itself aging. Among those 60 years or over, the fastest-growing segment is age 80 and over.

Result: Most people have an innate desire to minimize risk, and that tends to grow more acute in retirement, when they start utilizing their savings and investments to maintain their lifestyles. A secular shift toward greater risk aversion would likely favor bonds over stocks.

What you can do: Diversification and innovation are likely to become more important in coming years.

Consider balancing your stock/bond portfolio with investment products that provide guaranteed income.

While it’s good to be aware of the demographic trends that may affect the markets, don’t let them dictate your plan. Stay focused on your objectives and work with a financial professional to identify strategies most likely to help you achieve your personal financial goals.

Statistics cited in this article are from the United Nations World Population Database.

This article provides insights from M&I Wealth Management that may be useful to you in assessing risks and opportunities in the current environment related to your financial and wealth planning needs. The information contained herein should not be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice, and readers are encouraged to consult their tax, legal, and investment professionals with specific questions applicable to their own financial situations. Past performance is not necessarily a guide to future performance.

Creative Ways to Make Long-Term Care Protection More Affordable

save you both money. Depending on the company, you can save 10 – 15 Long-Term Care Insurance Specialist percent each by doing that.

Check with an association with which n these economic “belt-tightening” days we live in, doing the right thing you or your employer may belong. with future planning isn’t always easy. There are many association groups that offer discounts to not only the But as we all know, the ebb and flow members, but also their employees and of the economy will eventually right relatives. A few examples would be: itself and we cannot afford to wait the Florida Bar, The Florida Medical for that to happen. When protecting Association, the FICPA, the Florida your assets against the expensive outChiropractic Association, etc. to name of-pocket costs of a Long-Term Care only a few. I happen to be the Appointneed, it is of utmost importance to ed Representatives for these groups, take care of this to take advantage of and that will save you money as well. your youth and relative good health.

Sometimes things like this cannot wait. Even losing weight and improving Here are a few ideas I’ve come up with: your overall health is not only good for you personally, but it can also change When purchasing a plan, think about your rate class and save you 15 – 20 self-insuring part of the cost. Clearly, percent in Long-Term Care premiums. having something in place rather than There are really too many ways to not acting will be better in the long save to mention. The bottom line run than nothing at all. Instead of insuring the entire estimated cost—i.e. is, when you talk with someone who is a Specialist, and sells only $200 per day—think outside the box; Long-Term Care insurance plans, you reducing the daily benefit by $50 per will always save. You’ll save time, day and deciding to self insure the confusion and premiums by being rest is still better than no plan. It will able to understand and compare. Be save a good bit of premium too. prepared. Plan ahead. Feel free to call Instead of purchasing a 5 percent me anytime with concerns or questions. automatic compound inflation rider, consider CPI or maybe a 3 percent Rosemarie Hurley, Owner of Senior compound inflation rider. Your benefit Insurance Solutions, has worked in the senior will still grow, but not as aggressively, healthcare market for 21 years. She is a Cerbut again, it’s better than trying to tified Senior Advisor and has been a Longself-insure the whole expense.

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Mature Lifestyles • October 2011 • page 21

Northern Ireland’s Treasures

strung the rope bridge 30 meters above the sea to allow them to access the best places to catch migrating salmon.

Now the bridge presents a challenge to visitors to enjoy the same view and high thrills crossing the bridge.

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

BY KATHY BECK

among the towering tubes of stone makes the ancient myths of Finn McCool and Benandonner on giant’s pathway to Scotland seem highly probable.

Both the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge and the Giants Causeway are part of the NationalTrust.org.uk.

M

y visit to Northern Ireland was such a wonderful way to learn about my Irish heritage. Here is the rest of the story of my visit.

After learning about all things Titanic in Belfast it was time to head further north.

Our first stop was in Carrickfergus at the Andrew Jackson Cottage—a traditional thatched Ulster –Scots farmhouse built in the 1750s. Andrew Jackson (1767 – 1845)was the 7th President of the United States of America, and his parents emigrated from Ireland in 1765. The centre displays a collection of Ulster patchwork quilts and farm machinery.

Next, we traveled back up along the Causeway Coastal Route to Ballintoy, through the stunning villages of Glenarm, Carnlough and Cushendall. We made a short stop in Torr Head for a fantastic view of Scotland and panoramic cliffs.

Further up the Coastal Route, we arrived at the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge in Ballintoy. The hike up to the bridge was exhilarating with stunning views and fauna and bird life. Take the dare to cross this Indiana Jones-style bridge! For more than 350 years, fisherman have

ings and costumed demonstrators depict life in Ireland in the 1800s.

A full scale replica emigrant ship and the dockside galley give you a real impression of the way it was for our ancestors to make the trip to the New World. When stepping off the ship on the other side, you are in America where log homes, farms with crops and animals depict the new life for the Irish in America. The museum also includes an indoor Emigrants’ exhibition and Centre for Migration Studies library which is accessible to all visitors. (folkpark.com.)

Whiskey sampling at Bushmill’s Distillery

After getting back on the Causeway we headed to Bushmills. Bushmills Irish Whiskey is made at Ireland’s oldest working distillery in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. The distillery celebrated their 400th anniversary of the original license to distill whiskey granted to the Bushmills area in 1608. You can tour the “Grain to Glass” distillery to learn some trade secrets, watch whiskey making take place and enjoy a wee taster, too!

Explore the Giant’s Causeway Amazing! The Giant’s Causeway is recognized as one of the natural wonders of the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It consists of thousands of hexagonally-shaped basalt columns, some up to 160 meters high, formed 60 million years ago from volcanic lava. You have to see it to believe it.

The sense of geological violence is palpable in the place, and standing

Kathy Beck on the Giant’s Causeway

Only about an hour away is Galgorm Manor, Ballymena—a wonderful spa and resort. It was just what I needed after such an exciting day. (galgorm.com.)

On our next day we had the opportunity to stop at Ballaghy Bawn.

This 17th-century stronghold contains a guide to archaeology, history and nature around Bellaghy Bawn. It features Seamus Heaney’s poetry films and broadcasts. As luck would have it, it was a beautiful day to visit the country side and take a step back in time.

Last, we had the opportunity to visit the Ulster American Folk Park, which tells the story of emigration during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries.

The Old and New World layout of the Park illustrates the various aspects of emigrant life on both sides of the Atlantic. Traditional thatched build-

Ulster American Folk Park

My last night I spent in a Castle at Belle Isle, Fermanagh. The castle is situated in the heart of the Bell Isle Estate, which dates back to the 17th century. I had the Red Room and dinner was served by their Bell Isle Cookery School, which offers cooking classes throughout the year. To learn more about all that Bell Isle has to offer, visit belleisle-estate.com.

Thanks to the The Northern Ireland Tourist Board for making this such a delightful trip.

To learn more, visit their website at discovernorthernireland.com.

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Mature Lifestyles • October 2011 • page 22

ation

Buying a Used RV? Get a Deal, Not a Headache

BY TERESA AMBORD

A

re you in the market for a good used RV? There are plenty of them out there. But how can the average buyer tell the difference between a good deal and a headache waiting to happen?

Before you buy, do your homework. There are lots of resources available to help you make the right decision. Chuck Woodbury, the editor of RVtravel. com says “If I had to boil down my advice, it would be that buyers should take their time with their purchase and do their homework.”

With gas prices high, many RV owners are looking to sell, but whatever you do, don’t get in a hurry. Here are some tips I learned from Woodbury and from other seasoned RV dwellers.

• Check the condition of the upholstery, carpet, kitchen, and bathrooms. If they haven’t been well cared for, there is good reason to believe that the working parts underneath have also been neglected.

• Check for strong odors that might indicate the unit had been generally neglected.

• Don’t forget to check the tires, battery, air conditioner and the refrigerator to make sure they are all in good shape.

• Will your family fit comfortably in the RV?

How to Check for Water Damage The source of water damage may not be obvious. You need to check the RV from top to bottom. Check for the smell of mold or mildew, any discoloration in the ceiling, around all openings to the outside, the insides of all cabinets, open areas where there is equipment and spongy areas in the floor.

If you do find water damage but the RV is otherwise sound, take it to a qualified RV technician to find out how bad the damage is and what the cost to repair it is. If the damage compromises the integrity of the vehicle, it may not be worth the fix. On the other hand, you might find the damage is mostly cosmetic and well worth the repair.

It Pays to Sound Like You Know What You’re Doing Know ahead of time what you are looking for so you don’t end up buying a unit just because the price fits your budget. Check out enough models so that you know what floor plans are

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comfortable for you. A good prebuying tip might be to take a weekend trip in a rental RV to see if the floor plan is a good fit for your family.

Woodbury advises not buying from a private party unless you first have it checked out by an RV technician and (if motorized) a mechanic. Take the rig for a good test drive on the open road to see if you feel comfortable driving it.

Never buy an RV from a campground or a parking lot, said Woodbury. No deal is good enough to take that chance. Finally, Woodbury cautions shoppers about buying prior rental units which may not have been properly cared for. That’s why, he said, you must check every detail or you could get stuck with a “bum rig.” That doesn’t mean that every detail has to be perfect.

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(888) 313-8883 for specific pricing Mature Lifestyles • October 2011 • page 23

Life Gets Easier for Senior Techies

1. Dumb Phones I was bereft when my ancient Razr phone disappeared as it was so easy to use and is no longer available. In looking for a replacement, I found most phones have tiny black buttons and keyboards designed more for texting and playing online than for making calls. Some manufacturers are listening to these concerns, however, and creating phones specifically for my brethren. Think Jitterbug and the Doro PhoneEasy series.

2. Intelligent Phones Intel is working on a phone for those who have memory problems. Using caller ID tech, it’ll display a photo of the person calling, the user’s relationship to the caller and information about their last conversation. It would be even more helpful if Intel would create a human-implant screen that would jog my memory upon meeting people I “know.”

BY KATE FORGACH

T

he older I get, the more I appreciate the body of my youth. As a Baby Boomer dealing with hearing loss (too much rock music), memory loss (not enough Gingko), and unbending knees (too much biking), I appreciate every bit of senior assistance. That gratitude extends to manufacturers developing products tailored for those with reduced capacity or not familiar with our rapidly changing tech world. While some of the following examples weren’t originally designed with America’s elders in mind, they still offer great benefits to those who don’t want to get totally left behind.

Here are seven changes age hath wrought in today’s technological world.

Word Search Oct. 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?

3. Nana Technology Companies like Accenture and Intel have teamed up with universities and other researchers in the development of gadgets that make life easier. These include smart walkers users can retrieve by remote control, pillboxes that remind you to take your pills and mailboxes that let you know when mail has arrived.

4. Tablet Computers I’d give my AARP membership for an iPad. The screen is a joy, the touchpad keyboard is nice and big, and, most importantly, it’s entirely intuitive.

Apple’s security technology also nearly eliminates spyware and viruses, which are a nightmare to eradicate.

In general, touchscreens are easier for seniors to use. It took me just 30 minutes to get an elderly friend up and running on her new Motorola Xoom tablet. Unable to type anymore due to arthritis, the light touch required for these screens opened a whole new world. We loaded a few useful apps, made Google her home page, set up a Gmail account and she was off.

5. E-readers Few books are printed in large type anymore, but e-readers can make every book easy to read. The Kindle, for example, allows users to boost the font size with a touch of a button and the resolution improves with every release. The Barnes & Noble NOOK boasts a full-color display that makes reading even easier.

6. Durable Tech Cases Otterbox has cornered the market on hardcore cases for phones, e-readers, laptops and just about everything else that can be dropped, smashed or end up in water.

7. Online Shopping Shopping the e-commerce way is so much faster and easier for those facing diminished capacities. Plus, the selections are much larger, it’s often also possible to find better prices, and free shipping codes bring your purchase directly to the door without a delivery fee. Isn’t technology wonderful?

The author is a senior-consumer expert for Kinoli Inc.

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Mature Lifestyles • October 2011 • page 24

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Mature Lifestyles • October 2011 • page 25

Tales of the Frugal: Couponing Gone Awry

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Mature Lifestyles • October 2011 • page 26

hands. Upon exiting the store, Cuevas was pursued by a Walmart employee who demanded she return to “the scene of the crime” and even chased her vehicle as Cuevas left the parking lot.

4. Coupon Capers Lock your doors, 1. “I Didn’t Know close your drapes and it Was a Crime.” hold tight to your...er...

That’s what she said. newspapers; there’s a Seriously. Earlier this new kind of criminal in month, compulsivecoupon-clipper Jamie TLC’s “Extreme Couponing.” town. As arrests of selfproclaimed “discountVanSickler was charged seeking thieves” escalate around the with larceny theft, a misdemeanor country, police warn concerned citicarrying a potential jail sentence and zens of an increase in newspaper theft. hefty fine. Caught in the act by a newspaper-carrier-turned-sting-agent, 5. Discount Diva Dishonored VanSickler took 185 leftover Sunday On the cusp of a new season newspapers, indicating to police of Extreme Couponing, coupon she didn’t realize it was a crime. enthusiasts cried foul when one of the featured shoppers was recognized as Jaime Kirlew, aka “Diva for Coupons.” Kirlew made a name for herself on YouTube, unwittingly filming her unscrupulous strategy of barcode 2. “No [Coupon] for You!” When a mother of ten tried to redeem matching during a shopping trip to Target. After receiving numerous coupons at her local Kroger store in nastigrams, Kirlew quickly threw her Georgia, the store manager allegedly enabler (BeCentsAble) under the bus refused to take her clippings and and later admitted to coupon fraud. called her a “habitual coupon user.”

This southern momma is not only the From CouponSherpa.com, one of only victim of “coupon discriminafour websites operating under the tion,” as other shoppers around the brand name TheFrugals.com and country hit roadblocks at the register. dedicated to helping consumers save money and live more frugally.

3. Just Another Day at Walmart April Cuevas was temporarily banned from all Walmarts after an altercation involving competitor coupons. When the cashier refused to take the coupons, management was called and a series of unfortunate events ensued. Cuevas misinterpreted the intentions of four male shoppers headed her way during the argument and attempted to film them. A supervisor alledgedly scolded her and tried to knock the iPhone from her trembling

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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!

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These contracts are renewed annually, and the availability of coverage beyond the end of the current contract year is not guaranteed.

Exclusions, limitations, copayments, coinsurance and deductibles may apply.

The benefit information provided herein is a brief summary, not a comprehensive description of benefits.

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida is an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

For more information contact the plan.

Call toll-free 1-800-617 24 hours a day, everyd (TTY users dial 1-800-9 Visit us online at www.flbluemedicare.co orStop by your local Flor contact your local agen

*You must continue to pay the Medicare Part B premium, unless paid by Medicaid or another third party. *You must continue to pay the Medicare Part B premium, unless paid by Medicaid or another third pa A Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract and a Medicare-approved ** Excludes Tier 4 Generics. Part D sponsor. *You must continue to pay the Medicare Part B premium, unless paid by Medicaid third party.year is not guaranteed.

These contracts are renewed annually, and the availability AofMedicare coverage Advantage beyond theorganization endorofanother the current with acontract Medicare contract and a Medicare-approved Part D sponso Exclusions, may apply. ** Excludes Tier 4 limitations, Generics. copayments, coinsurance and deductibles These contracts are renewed annually, and the availability of coverage beyond the end of the current con The benefit information providedwith herein is a brief summary, not aacomprehensive description benefits.

A Medicare Advantage organization a Medicare contract and Medicare-approved PartofDcoinsurance sponsor. and deductibles may apply.

Exclusions, limitations, copayments, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida is an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

Y0011_71872RA 0911Tier File 4& Generics.

Use 09192011 ** Excludes BMRPP0