December 2012

DAMSELFLY FAMILY THEATRE COMPANY | COMMUNITY CALENDAR | CROSSWORD

Shelby Beckett Gainesville Author Channels Creativity in her New Novel

DECEMBER 2012

seniortimesmagazine.com

INSIDE

VOLUNTEERS OF THE YEAR

HOLIDAY HARMONIES

As Nominated by Peers and Community

Barbergators & G’ville Harmony Show Chorus

1

2

Would you like to experience the beneďŹ ts of Dental Implants?

Improved appearance. Dental implants look and feel like your own teeth.

And because they are designed to fuse with bone, they become permanent.

Improved speech. With poor-fitting dentures, the teeth can slip within the mouth causing you to mumble or slur your words. Dental implants allow you to speak without the worry that your teeth might slip.

Improved comfort. Because they become part of you, implants eliminate the discomfort of removable dentures.

Easier eating. Sliding dentures can make chewing difficult. Dental implants function like your own teeth, allowing you to eat your favorite foods with confidence and without pain.

Improved self-esteem. Dental implants can give you back your smile and help you feel better about yourself.

Improved oral health. Dental implants don’t require reducing other teeth, as a tooth-supported bridge does. Because nearby teeth are not altered to support the implant, more of your own teeth are left intact, improving your long-term oral health. Individual implants also allow easier access between teeth, improving oral hygiene. Implant don’t get cavities and never need a root canal.

Durability. Implants are very durable and will last many years. With good care, many implants last a lifetime.

Convenience. Removable dentures are just that; removable. Dental implants eliminate the embarrassing inconvenience of removing your dentures, as well as the need for messy adhesives to keep your dentures in place.

< Marilyn before, age 68 See my story at ExceptionalDentistry.com

The patient and any other person responsible for payment has the right to refuse to pay, cancel payment, or be reimbursed for a payment for any other service, examination or treatment which is performed as a result of and within 72 hours of responding to the advertisement for free, discounted fee, or the reduced fee, service, examination or treatment. ADA D9310.

PLUS...IV S edation available! G et a

FRE E S econd Opinion!

( $ 109 Value)

1BUJFOUT DPNF UP &YDFQUJPOBM %FOUJTUSZ GSPN BMM QBSUT PG 'MPSJEB UP FYQFSJFODF %S "SU BOE ,JN .PXFSZT XPSME DMBTT RVBMJUZ TFSWJDF BOE FYQFSJFODF JO DPTNFUJD SFDPOTUSVDUJWF JNQMBOU BOE TFEBUJPO EFOUJTUSZ ɨF EPDUPST XFSF GFBUVSFE JO Newsweek NBHB[JOF T

/FXCFSSZ 3PBE t (BJOFTWJMMF /FYU UP (BJOFTWJMMF )FBMUI 'JUOFTT

(352) 332-6725 ExceptionalDentistry.com Drs. Art & Kim Mowery have been featured in:

i /BUJPOXJEF -FBEFST JO %FOUJTUSZ BOE 4VSHFSZw TIPXDBTF JO UIF %FDFNCFS OBUJPOBM FEJUJPO

Isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t this the type of dentistry you deserve? %ST "SU BOE ,JN .PXFSZ

You’ve waited long enough With a home equity line of credit from SunState, there’s no better time to go on a dream vacation.

Log on, call or visit us today to talk to a credit expert.

Serving residents in the Greater Gainesville area for more than 55 years

352-381-5200

www.sunstatefcu.org

QUICK TURN-AROUND TIMES • HIGH COMBINED LOAN-TO-VALUE • NO MORTGAGE INSURANCE SunState Purchase HELOC is an open-ended line of credit. Minimum initial advance of $10,000.00 and subsequent advances of $500.00. MI - Mortgage Insurance, PMI - Private Mortgage Insurance.

3

4

22

28 14

32

28

CONTENTS DECEMBER 2012 • VOL. 13 ISSUE 12

departments 8 11 38

Tapas Community Calendar of Events

45 47 50

Theatre Listings Crossword Puzzle Reading Corner

PHOTO BY TOM MORRISSEY MAKEUP BY TRISH ALLEN & IMAGE INSIGHT

ON THE COVER – When most people are getting ready to retire, author Shelby Beckett is getting started with a new career as a novelist at age 75. Beckett began writing poetry in elementary school and finished her first novel (illustrated by a friend and still unpublished) at the age of 10. She has recently published her new novel, “Between,” which she has worked on for 12 years.

features 14

Volunteers of The Year As Nominated by Their Peers and Members of the Community

BY ALLYSEN KERR

22

columns 20

by Donna Bonnell

26

Enjoying Act Three

by Ellis Amburn

Spirit of Gainesville Local Author and Spiritual Teacher Channels Creativity in New Novel

Embracing Life

36

Healthy Edge

by Kendra Siler-Marsiglio

BY COURTNEY LINDWALL

28

Holiday Harmonies The Barbergators and the Gainesville Harmony Show Chorus Together Again

BY JEWEL MIDELIS

32

Players Take the Stage Developing Theater Company is Set to Perform at its New Outdoor Venue

BY BONNIE KRETCHIK

4

December 2012

WINNER! Congratulations to the winner from our NOVEMBER 2012 issue…

Kim Orr from Ocala, Florida

seniortimesmagazine.com

“The Shands Rehab team motivated me to get me moving every day. ” Helen Miyasaki Newberry, FL

Ask Helen Miyasaki about the key to her recovery from a stroke and she’ll tell you it was the positive energy of the team at Shands Rehab Hospital; people who literally taught her to walk again – and made her laugh even when she wanted to cry. At Shands Rehab Hospital, the only inpatient rehabilitation hospital in North Central Florida, each patient receives hours of intensive therapy every day, from dedicated UF physicians and Shands rehab nurses and therapists. When your doctor recommends rehab, know you have a choice. Choose Shands Rehab Hospital.

352.265.8938

Shands.org/Rehab

4101 NW 89th Blvd. Gainesville, FL 32606

5

6

FROM THE EDITOR œ ALBERT ISAAC

‘Tis the Season!

I know I ask this question every December, but I’m going to ask again — where’d the year go? Whoosh, another one bites the dust. And now it’s time for me to be thinking about which New Year’s Resolutions I’ll be breaking in the coming year.

This time I’d like to establish some new habits. I have read that it takes 21 days to form a new habit. This might be true for good habits, but I know I’ve picked up bad habits in far less time.

Perhaps 2013 is the year to ditch the bad for the good.

Breaking my tendency to procrastinate sounds like a good resolution to begin with. It would certainly make hitting my deadlines less traumatic, and also ease my lastminute Christmas-shopping stress. So that’s my plan.

Starting next year.

For the remainder of this year, I’m going to do my best to keep my head above water as all of us here at Tower Publications finish up our magazines.

This is the season for giving, of being

6

December 2012

thankful, and for being forgiving. Some of us hold grudges. I’ve certainly been known to harbor a few of these toxic emotions. But when we can forgive the transgressions of others, we free ourselves from harmful negative feelings.

I learned this while in high school, when a friend damaged the door to my car while arguing with another friend.

Days later, when I called to ask him to pay to fix it, he refused. For the rest of the year we didn’t talk. This was particularly awkward since we were all part of the same group of friends that hung out together all the time.

It wasn’t until after we had graduated that I decided to forgive him. Imagine his surprise when, for the first time in close to year, I spoke to him at a football game.

It felt good to forgive. And we are friends to this day.

Being grateful also feels good. It’s easy to focus our thoughts on the things that we don’t have while taking for granted the things that we do have. I’m often guilty of this bad habit. But when I’m thinking straight, I’m grateful for the many good things in my life. I may not have a lot of money, but I am rich.

This is the season for giving. I will admit to being somewhat of a Scrooge — but fortunately the Yin and Yang of the Universe has provided me with a very generous spouse. I like to think it all balances out.

So now, as we stand on the cusp of a new year, I would like to wish you all well. Thank you for reading and writing. s

Published monthly by Tower Publications, Inc.

www.seniortimesmagazine.com PUBLISHER

Charlie Delatorre charlie@towerpublications.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Albert Isaac editor@towerpublications.com Fax: 352-373-9178 ART DIRECTOR

Hank McAfee hank@towerpublications.com GRAPHIC DESIGN

Neil McKinney neil@towerpublications.com EDITORIAL INTERN

Cassie Ganter ADVERTISING SALES For more advertising information including rates, coverage area, distribution and more – call: 352-372-5468 or visit our website at: www.seniortimesmagazine.com ADVERTISING OFFICE

4400 NW 36th Avenue Gainesville, FL 32606 352-372-5468 352-373-9178 fax The articles printed in Senior Times Magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Tower Publications, Inc. or their editorial staff. Senior Times Magazine endeavors to accept reliable advertising; however, we can not be held responsible by the public for advertising claims. Senior Times Magazine reserves the right to refuse or discontinue any advertisement. If you would like to discontinue receiving Senior Times Magazine please call 352-372-5468 for assistance. © 2012 Tower Publications, Inc. All rights reserved.

If you would like us to publicize an event in Alachua or Marion counties, send information by the 13th day of the month prior.

All submissions will be reviewed and every effort will be made to run qualified submissions if page space is available.

352-3723-9178 (fax) editor@towerpublications.com

seniortimesmagazine.com

STAFF œ CONTRIBUTORS

BECAUSE MY SUPERHERO ALWAYS SAVES MY DAY.

clockwise from top left ALLYSEN KERR is a freelance writer and graduate of the University of Florida’s College of Journalism and Communications. allysenrenee@gmail.com BONNIE KRETCHIK grew up in Pennsylvania, but has spent her winters in Florida for the past 10 years. Aside from writing, Bonnie has been riding horses since the age of six. She enjoys running long distance and training for triathlons. bonniek83@hotmail.com JEWEL MIDELIS is a freelance writer and a student at UF’s College of Journalism. In her spare time, she enjoys going to the beach, camping at state parks and playing with her puppies. jmidelis91@yahoo.com COURTNEY LINDWALL is a Florida native, now studying journalism at UF. She loves telling and hearing good stories. In her little bit of free time, she enjoys hiking, camping and eating delicious food. c.lindwall@ufl.edu

December 2012

7 7

8

TAPAS œ DECEMBER

The 27 Club 64.252

FOOD COMA

MILLION

For many Americans, indulging in the traditional Thanksgiving Day feast often results in a post-meal nap. Because of the tryptophan in the poultry, people frequently blame the main dish for the lull more commonly referred to as a “food coma.” Even though tryptophan, an amino acid, does cause drowsiness, the turkey does not contain enough to cause this reaction.

In 2011, 64,252,000 people volunteered, which represents 26.8 percent of the population.

STUDIES SUGGEST THAT IN COMBINATION WITH THE HEAVY CARBOHYDRATE-LOADED SIDE DISHES AND RICH DESSERTS, THE TRIMMINGS ARE MORE TO BLAME THAN THE TURKEY ALONE. This being said, when trying to avoid the food coma, staying away from the side dishes can help.

A volunteer’s time is estimated to be worth more than $20 an hour.

— HISTORY.COM

FUN HOLIDAY TRIVIA During the holiday season, Poinsettia flowers represent over 85 percent of potted plant sales, which equates to over $220 million.

• U.S. ambassador to Mexico Joel Poinsett first introduced the plant in 1828.

• The New Year’s Ball, which first appeared in Times Square in 1907 on New Year’s Eve, was originally made of iron and wood. At the time, it was only decorated with 100 light bulbs. The modern ball is composed of Waterford crystal, 696 light bulbs, 96 strobe lights and 90 rotating pyramid mirrors.

• The Christmas tree in Rockefeller Center employs 25,000 bulbs — this is more than five miles of lights!

— FAMILYEDUCATION.COM and SOCYBERTY.COM

8

December 2012

An adult who volunteered previously in his or her youth is twice as likely to volunteer as those who did not.

— WWW.USFCA.EDU

This 2012 holiday season, volunteering is an great way to give back to the community.

Volunteering is a two-way street, and it can benefit you and your family as much as the cause you choose to help. Dedicating your time as a volunteer helps you make new friends, expand your network and boost your social skills.

seniortimesmagazine.com

ADVERTISEMENT

GASTROENTEROLOGY DECEMBER

Christmas Tree Tradition The first historical record of a Christmas tree was in fact not a tree at all, according to fun. familyeducation.com. During the holiday season of 1747, a wooden pyramid, decorated with apples and evergreen boughs, substituted for the evergreen trees that we recognize as Christmas trees today. After the public embraced the idea of the tree, the Christmas tree industry has grown significantly. The industry employs over 100,000 employees, plants over one million acres of trees, and grows between 34 and 36 million Christmas trees per year. By 1900, artificial trees began to surface.

People bought the first artificial Christmas trees via mail order through Sears and Roebuck and Company. Only costing 50 cents for a tree with 33 limbs, or a dollar for 55 limbs, the artificial trees we know today are much larger and pricier. Today’s artificial trees are made in Korea, Taiwan or Hong Kong, range in price from $200 to $2,000 and are composed of biodegradable plastics.

— HISTORY.COM

Each month, our practice receives hundreds of questions about colonoscopies and what to expect. We would like to help the community by featuring a question and answer column each month based on our experience and the usual questions that arise.

Dear Dr. Reddy, My husband was diagnosed with Gastroparesis, and his doctor thinks it is linked to diabetes. How can we mange this disease and the diabetes?

— Gretchen*, Gainesville Dear Grace, The cause of gastroparesis is unknown, but it may be caused by a disruption of nerve signals to the stomach. The condition is a common complication of diabetes and can be a complication of some surgeries. Your husband should have an Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) to confirm whether he has Gastroparesis.

His primary physician probably has record of these symptoms in your husband’s history: • Abdominal distention • Hypoglycemia • Nausea • Premature abdominal fullness after meals • Weight loss without trying • Vomiting People with diabetes should always control their blood sugar levels. Better control of blood sugar levels may improve symptoms of gastroparesis.

Changing your eating habits can help control gastroparesis: Your doctor or dietitian may prescribe six small meals a day instead of three large ones. If less food enters the stomach each time you eat, it may not become overly full. In more severe cases, a liquid or pureed diet may be prescribed.

The doctor may recommend that you avoid

high-fat and high-fiber foods. Fat naturally slows digestion—a problem you do not need if you have gastroparesis—and fiber is difficult to digest.

Some high-fiber foods like oranges and broccoli contain material that cannot be digested. Avoid these foods because the indigestible part will remain in the stomach too long and possibly form bezoars.

The primary treatment goals for gastroparesis related to diabetes are to improve stomach emptying and regain control of blood glucose levels. Treatment includes dietary changes, insulin, oral medications, and, in severe cases, a feeding tube and parenteral nutrition.

If you have gastroparesis & diabetes, food is being absorbed more slowly and at unpredictable times. Therefore to control blood glucose, you may need to: take insulin more often or change the type of insulin you take; take your insulin after you eat instead of before; check your blood glucose levels frequently after you eat and administer insulin whenever necessary; But please: consult with your primary physician before making any changes. *The name has been changed, and any similarity to any person, living or dead, is a coincidence.

Dr. Vishnu Reddy 7 Hill Gastroenterology, PA 316 SE 12th St, Ocala

352.401.1919 9

10

87 Years Old

Dick Van Dyke BORN DECEMBER 13, 1925

Richard Wayne “Dick” Van Dyke is an actor, comedian, writer and R producer with a career spanning 60 years. His film credits include prod starring roles in “Bye Bye Birdie,” “Mary Poppins” and “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” and in the TV series “The Dick Van Dyke Show” and “Diagnosis: Murder.”

Van Dyke enlisted in the United States Army Air Corps during World War II. He became a radio announcer, later transferring to the Special Services entertaining troops in the Continental United States.

“The Dick Van Dyke Show,” which won 15 Emmy Awards, aired on CBS from October 3, 1961 until June 1, 1966. In 1997, the episodes “Coast-toCoast Big Mouth” and “It May Look Like a Walnut” were ranked at 8 and 15 respectively on TV Guide’s 100 Greatest Episodes of All Time. In 2002, it was ranked at 13 on TV Guide’s 50 Greatest TV Shows of All Time.

A FEW OTHER NOTABLE

Birthdays this Month

Sandy Koufax December 30, 1935 (77)

“This idea of how everything is interconnected, and the impermanence of things. It sums up the human condition to me, and it helps me on my path.”

Woody Allen

Larry Csonka

December 1, 1935 (77)

December 25, 1946 (66)

Mary Tyler Moore

Stan Lee

December 29, 1936 (76)

December 28, 1922 (90)

63 Years Old

— JEFF BRIDGES Jeffrey Leon Bridges was born in Los Angeles, and grew up amid the happening Hollywood scene with big brother Beau Bridges. He is the son of well-known actor Lloyd Bridges and his wife Dorothy Dean Bridges. Both boys appeared on occasion on “Sea Hunt.”

10

December 2012

seniortimesmagazine.com

COMMUNITY œ FOOD BANKS

Affordable Housing for Senior Citizens

PHOTO COURTESY OF BREAD OF THE MIGHTY FOOD BANK Volunteers distribute bags of food at Kanapaha Church last May.

A Helping Hand An important part of the holiday season tradition is giving back to those less fortunate in the community. Giving back is a present in and of itself, and the rewarding feeling that comes from helping others in times of need may at times be more rewarding than anything in a box and wrapping paper.

In the Alachua County community, one particular issue in need of assistance is hunger and food insecurity. In 2010, nearly 19 percent of people in the area were in a state of food insecurity. Food insecurity refers to the availability of food and the access that a family has to the food necessary to maintain a healthy lifestyle for the members of the household.

Food hardship, which is defined as households that have not had sufficient money to buy food that the family needed, is an issue that goes hand-inhand with food insecurity. Almost 22 percent of residents in Alachua’s district 6 experienced food hardship from 2010 to 2011, while that same year 32.6 percent of residents in district three struggled with food hardship.

This holiday season, several food banks in the area strive to provide

support for these local issues. One of these facilities, the Bread of the Mighty Food Bank in Gainesville supplied the community with 4.8 million pounds of food throughout the year. Serving 74,000 meals in 2010, the St. Francis House in Gainesville is another option. The Catholic Charities of Gainesville is also home to the “Feed a Family” program, where for a $20 monthly donation, over 1,400 pounds of food can be purchased and served to families struggling with food insecurity or hardship.

These are just three examples of five food banks and soup kitchens in Alachua County. A critical component to keeping places like these up and running is the help from volunteers. Whether in the form of financial donations or donations of time and effort, any little bit helps. As many of us enjoy and relish in the joy that the holiday’s festivities bring, it is important to keep in mind the true spirit of the holidays: to give back to those less fortunate. One person’s graciousness can mean the world to someone who has nothing. s

Pine Grove Apartments Federally subsidized apartments for persons 62 and older.

• Studio & One-Bedroom Apartments.

• ADA accessible apartments are also available.

• Rent is based on income. for your appointment, call

352-373-1213 TDD: 800-955-8771 Total annual income limit for eligibility:

One Person $19,500 Two Persons $22,250 1901 NE 2nd Street Gainesville, Florida OFFICE HOURS: MON-FRIDAY 8am-12pm 1pm-4pm CLOSED SATURDAY AND SUNDAY

For more information on how to help, visit: www.foodpantries.org/ci/fl-gainesville.

December 2012

11 11

12

THE VILLAGE. MORE VALUE – AND MORE AFFOR

Our Vitality Program is just one of many ways we’re adding value to become a Villager, because special limited-time savings make our c details on the savings package that’s right for you!

Helping you live your best life. BY DESIGN. Our residents want to thrive at every age. So to help them live their best lives, we created our Vitality Program. It’s designed solely to help each resident better manage the unique issues we face as we age – and advances the idea that living happier, healthier, longer is a community-wide effort we wholeheartedly believe in. Nearly three-fourths of our residents participate in our voluntary program.

We think that’s a good sign residents embrace vitality as much as we do.

Better living, by design. That’s our approach.

How do we apply this kind of thinking all across our campus? We’ll show you. Call 1-888-774-3297 for your personal tour.

Better living, by design.

8000 NW 27th Boulevard | Gainesville, FL 32606 1-888-774-3297 www.TheVillageOnline.com

FFORDABLE!

alue to our residents’ retirement living experience. And right now is the best time to ke our community even more affordable than ever! Call 1-888-774-3297 today for

13

14

ALTRUISM

Volunteers of the Year As Nominated by Their Peers and Members of the Community

by Allysen Kerr

I

n October, SunState Federal Credit Union and Tower Publications Inc. teamed up to identify volunteers who were contributing to the nonprofit community as a whole.

The volunteers varied from teens to seniors and all have done more than their share to improve the lives of others and the local community.

Nominated by friends and family, these volunteers were then voted on by their supporters and respective charities. Each winner received an iPad 2 in appreciation of their work, as well as a donation toward the charity of their choice.

Here are their stories.

Leonard Boice, 55 1ST PLACE WINNER :: AGES 55+ Leonard Boice (opposite page, left) is the “do-it-all” guy at Another Way Inc., a domestic violence crisis center.

The Lake City native handles all of the maintenance and any work that needs to be done.

Leonard has been helping the organi-

14

December 2012

zation for the past two years. He found out about Another Way through his wife who works by the nonprofit.

“Whenever they need me, I’m there,” he said in a recent phone interview.

He volunteers because it is worthwhile and it is a good cause. The organization provides services to four counties in North Florida and Leonard travels where they need him.

“Sometimes there’s not money for things and the money they do have needs to be spent on other things,” Leonard said.

“Rather than paying a plumber to come in and costing over 50 bucks and hour…it may take me an hour and a half but they don’t have to pay that money out and they can use that money for something else. It’s pretty important.”

In addition to plumbing, he also helps with fundraising events. For the last two years, Leonard was the official tea maker at their annual benefit.

“The first year I did it was kind of touchy, but the second year they did it, I had it down pat,” he said.

Volunteering has helped Leonard fill up his schedule since he is currently unemployed.

Larry Tatterson, 68 1ST PLACE WINNER (TIE) :: AGES 55+ Larry Tatterson (opposite page, right) likes to take advantage of any opportunity to fire up his big grill. He believes that volunteering helps everybody out and he thoroughly enjoys it.

“People ask me if I’ll do it and I say, ‘Sure, I’d love to do it,” Larry said in a telephone interview.

“Larry is a familiar face in the community,” said Lindy Tatterson Eden, Larry’s daughter. “He has grilled hamburgers and hotdogs for the annual back to school bash at the Catherine Taylor Park in High Springs for the last three years. He also has volunteered to cook for events for his grandchildren’s school and martial arts fundraisers.”

Larry loves to meet new people and finds opportunities to do so during Alachua’s Spring and Harvest festival. seniortimesmagazine.com

PHOTOS BY TJ MORRISSEY

A cancer survivor, he finds the same opportunities at the cancer drive for the American Cancer Society

by SunState Federal Credit Union.

Larry was technically ineligible for the award because he is the father of one of the credit union’s employees. However, his good deeds couldn’t go unrecognized. The contest committee decided that instead of disqualifying Larry, they would “duplicate” the prize.

This means that another charity will receive $1,000.

Larry and his wife have lived in High Springs since 1979 and are parents of two daughters. s

Jade Salamone, 28 1ST PLACE WINNER :: AGES 19-54 Jade Salamone (page 16) loves bats.

Even more so, she loves volunteering

with the Lubee Bat Conservancy. Since 2011, Jade has been giving her time to help the international conservancy with its most important mission: “protecting biological diversity through the conservation of fruit bats.”

A South Florida native, Jade moved back to Gainesville from San Diego with her husband in 2010 to complete her residency at the Santa Fe Teaching Zoo. As an avid fan of bats, Jade jumped on the December 2012

15 15

16

PHOTO BY TOM MORRISSEY // MAKEUP BY TRISH ALLEN & IMAGE INSIGHT

“I think that works for every field,” she said. “You’re getting more people interested in it and then those volunteers go out and get everyone else interested in it.”

She believes that volunteer work makes it possible for more things to function well and for everyone to be a part of something in the community.

Jade’s volunteer work has also opened doors for internships. Last year she volunteered with a company that helps with woodpecker conservation.

Giving her time landed her an internship with the organization this fall.

Jade said that they organizations she volunteers with are very appreciative of their volunteers.

“That [appreciation] just makes you want to keep doing it.”

She graduates from Santa Fe’s Teaching Zoo program this December. s

Dixie Boston, 15 1ST PLACE WINNER :: UNDER 18

chance to volunteer with the conservancy after someone mentioned the opportunity.

Jade believes that volunteering makes a huge difference.

“I know for myself, I give a lot of my extra time because the people who are volunteering are the ones who, a lot of times, end of making it possible for places like Lubee’s to continue,” Jade said in a telephone interview.

Like many nonprofits, Lubee has a

16

December 2012

small staff and any extra help makes a big difference, she said.

“So getting someone who is really passionate about it, coming up there and giving up their time, I know it really helps improve the lives of the bats because they are getting all the care they can get,” Jade said.

Not only do the bats benefit from the volunteers, but the community does as well.

Dixie Boston (opposite page) has been quite a busy young lady. Between starting organizations, volunteering at animal shelters, her local dance studio, and playing for younger children, she is well on her way to becoming a philanthropist.

Her passion for giving is rooted in Dixie’s family values. Ever since she was a child, Dixie’s parents instilled in her the importance of volunteering and making a difference in the community.

Dixie said that her earliest volunteer experience was working with the Girl Scouts to do a couple of events. But she mostly remembers cleaning up the trails around the Suwannee River with various groups.

Cleaning the trails became such a priority that she started an organization called the Suwannee River Renewal Project. Every year on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, she and a team of volunteers, including the Girl Scouts, have seniortimesmagazine.com

PHOTO BY ALBERT ISAAC

gone out to clean the trails. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think volunteering is important because if no one gives and everyone takes, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not really a good dynamic, Dixie said in a recent phone interview. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no harmony and kind of a discord.â&#x20AC;?

She also encourages her fellow teens to get involved. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Not only is it good for the community, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s good for yourself and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s deďŹ nitely a feeling of self-satisfaction,â&#x20AC;? she said.

Dixie ďŹ gured out where she liked to volunteer by â&#x20AC;&#x153;dippingâ&#x20AC;? into everything she could ďŹ nd. â&#x20AC;&#x153;[But] most of my volunteer work is based off of stuff my family and I enjoy,â&#x20AC;? she said.

Her mother, Peggy Boston, is very proud of her and nominated her for the award. â&#x20AC;&#x153;She does a lot, and you know with volunteering you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t really get recognized, which clearly is not the reason we do it but it just never hurts to give you a boost, to make you feel like youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re being

appreciated,â&#x20AC;? Peggy said of Dixie. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When she sees something she wants to do it so a lot of times I have to rein her in.â&#x20AC;?

One thing is clear: Dixie ďŹ nds complete satisfaction everywhere she volunteers. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The projects that you complete you know that you did it out of your own time and your own resources and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s deďŹ nitely good to give back to a community thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s given so much to you,â&#x20AC;? she said. s

THE WINNERS UNDER 18 1st Place: Dixie Boston 2nd Place: Elizabeth Lovvorn AGE 19 -54 1st Place: Jade Salamone 2nd Place: Kristy Hancock AGE 55+ 1st Place Tie: Larry Tatterson and Leonard Boice 2nd Place: Aqueela Khuddus

Hear Everything â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Everywhere This Holiday Season!

Experience the most technically advanced hearing instruments available.

We always sell our Hearing Aids at Wholesale Price, so you never have to wait for a device to go on sale. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Accentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Peace of Mind Pricing.

ReSound Verso is: t &BTZ GPS QBUJFOUT UP VTF t 0VUTUBOEJOH JO CBDLHSPVOE OPJTF BOE t 1SPWJEFT )JHI 'JEFMJUZ .VTJD &YQFSJFODF

.BLF ZPVS BQQPJOUNFOU UPEBZ BOE FYQFSJFODF UIF )JHIFTU 2VBMJUZ PG $BSF GPS UIF -PXFTU $PTU BSPVOE Dr Baker, Dr Dornton and Dr Petrakis

(352)271-5373

Virginia (Jenny) V Petitto, M.D. B. Peti

: 1(:%(55< 5' 68,7( *$,1(69,//( ::: $&&(170' &20

December 2012

17 17

18

ADVERTISEMENT

‘It’s A Wonderf

I

ul Life”

t’s a Wonderful Life is just an old Frank Capra classic to most people, but to the people of SunState Federal Credit Union, it’s more than just a movie. For these volunteers and employees, the Bailey Building and Loan represents a way of doing business that SunState works hard to emulate every single day. Robert Hart, SunState’s Vice President of Marketing likes to think that it’s not just how they serve their members or the products and services they provide, but it’s more about where their heart is that really sets them apart.

“When people ask me about the

credit union, I always talk about George Bailey in the scene from It’s a Wonderful Life where he says your money is under your neighbor’s roof and his money is in the walls of a neighbor’s house and so on,” explains Hart. “It’s a simple way to explain how a cooperative like a credit union works. When George sums it up for the crowd with, ‘We don’t need the Mr. Potters of the world, we have each other,’ it really hits home.

That’s what SunState is all about.

Our credit union is about thousands of neighbors pooling their resources to help each other without having a Mr. Potter step in and take a cut off

the top. Our members know that, as an institution, we care and they know th l di id l care. thatt our employees as iindividuals If George Bailey really existed and he lived in Gainesville, I think he would consider our employees to have very rich lives, even if they don’t live in the biggest houses in town.”

George Bailey gave his life and career to the Building and Loan. If you ask employment experts today, they will tell you how rare it is these days for employees to stay with one company for very long. It’s different at SunState, where many employees and volunteers have given more than 20, 30, even 40 years of service to the community through their work at the credit union. Of them all, one name stands out, that of the late Marvis B. Roberts, Sr. As the story goes, in 1957, during a visit to Washington, DC, Roberts needed to cash a check and was directed to a credit union. He was impressed with the cooperative-style atmosphere and knewthat it was this innovative idea of people helping people -- rather than souvenirs -- that he would bring home. Upon his return from Washington, Roberts organized fellow employees to start Florida USDA Federal Credit Union. With an initial investment of $5 from each of the original 10 charter members, the credit union was up and running,

serving local employees of the USDA. Roberts understood the importance of providing a venue for people to pool their money in order to make loans to each other at the best possible rates. He knew that not only would a group operating cooperatively treat its members better, but also as a non-profit organization they could offer better rates than an outside company or bank that needed to pay out profits to stockholders.

Over the years, the credit union expanded its member base from only Florida USDA employees to anyone who lives, works, worships or attends school in Alachua, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist or Levy counties. So, in 1993, Florida USDA Federal Credit Union changed its name to SunState Federal Credit Union. Today, SunState has grown from a modest organization operating out of a desk drawer to one that serves members from nine locations as well as a robust online

presence. Marvis Roberts passed away in 1999, but his legacy has resulted in an organization that started with initial assets of $50 that have grown to almost $300 million, proving when people work together to help themselves, great things can happen.

One might think that the cost of such growth would be a loss in personal service, but that’s not so.

SunState has one of the highest employee-to-member ratios of any credit union in the country, because they are totally committed to customer service. Hart goes back to It’s a Wonderful Life and points out that Jimmy Stewart’s character, George Bailey, embodies the way SunState strives to operate because, “Who would you rather do business with, someone like Jimmy Stewart’s character George Bailey who cares about you, or the greedy Mr. Potter who cares only about your money and is always looking for a foreclosure?”

While the hearts of staff and management lean more to the ways of the old-fashioned Bailey Building and Loan, the financial services provided by SunState are advanced even for the 21st century, because making life easier for their members is the goal of SunState -- and easier means better.

“We provide so much for our members and want more people to know that they can take advantage of what we have to offer too,” Robert Hart explains. “We want our members to consider SunState not just as a credit union, but as their one trusted financial partner.”

Like George Bailey and his father in It’s a Wonderful Life, Marvis B. Roberts Sr., the founder of SunState, his desire to serve people and better the community lives on in everyone at SunState Federal Credit Union. It’s not about money, it’s about people. It’s not about profit, it’s about service.

Serving residents in the Greater Gainesville area for more than 55 years

352-381-5200

www.sunstatefcu.org

VISIT SUNSTATE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION AT ANY ONE OF THEIR CONVENIENT LOCATIONS TO FIND OUT HOW YOU CAN BENEFIT FROM BECOMING A MEMBER. MEMBERSHIP RULES APPLY.

19

20

COLUMN œ DONNA BONNELL

Embracing Life The Lamborghini Lesson

A

re you a Lamborghini or a clearance-lot car? Truthfully ponder that question for a bit. An accurate honest answer may be a difficult dilemma to decipher. The process was a perplexing one for me, yet enlightening.

My journey began when a speaker at a wellness group meeting posted a picture of a limited edition Gallardo Lamborghini. After the foofaraw from the audience subsided, our guest posed what seemed to be a simple straight-forward survey. He asked, “If you owned this exotic automobile, how would you preserve its worth?”

Obvious replies included: by filling its tank with the highest octane fuel available; by providing routine service from an expert mechanic; by pampering it inside and out with top of the line additives, oils and waxes. The virtuous doctor responded, “I only wish people valued their bodies as much as their vehicles.”

After a long pause he asked, “Are you giving yourself the same top-of-the line treatment — or do you treat yourself like a used trade-in?”

Enthusiastic energy in the room suddenly changed to that of exhaustion, as everyone silently evaluated their esteem issues. I embraced the opportunity to search my soul for self-worth — a project that lasted well beyond the confines of the one-hour lecture. Knowing that messages always appear when needed, I proceeded with an open mind and heart.

Almost immediately, I saw a Facebook

20

December 2012

status that hit home. I tried to find the author, but was not successful. It said, “If you’re not being treated with love and respect, check your Price Tag. Perhaps you have marked yourself down.

It’s you who tells people what you’re worth by what you accept. Get off the Clearance Rack and get behind the glass where they keep all the valuables.”

What a revelation! Not only do I always shop clearance racks, but have never desired a high-priced car. Perhaps my conservative spending character-

wounds required hard work — a challenge I have spent most of my adult-life trying to accomplish. However, reviewing my success in tangible terms raised my personal expectation bar a bit higher.

Perhaps I had settled for a life of doing for everyone else in the hopes of earning their love. It is not the fault of others that I have chosen to put me at the bottom of my to-do list. Today I take ownership and responsibility for those self-destructive choices.

Over the years, I have progressed by slowly and painfully modifying my personality deficiencies. When I psychologically parked my worn out body beside the other unkempt losers in the clearance lot I took a giant step. I began to treat myself with an occasional manicure, pedicure and professional hair color. It took time to get past the guilt, but nowadays I keep regular appointments. Success feels good.

Will I ever own a Lamborghini? I seriously doubt it. Will I ever purchase high-priced designer clothing? No, prob-

“I have progressed by slowly and painfully modifying my personality deficiencies. When I psychologically parked my worn out body beside the other unkempt losers in the clearance lot I took a giant step.” istics paralleled my lack of self-worth.

The concept forced me to wonder why I have never felt worthy enough to graduate from the clearance rack to designer clothing. As a Senior, I should have made that transition years ago.

There was a lot of wisdom shared in (what I have lovingly labeled) The Lamborghini Lesson. Likewise, the passage found on Facebook was thought-provoking. Unfortunately, making significant change is more complicated than simply saying, “Yes, they are right.”

Increasing the value of me required much more than buying an outfit at a fancy boutique. Deprogramming deep-rooted

ably not. Truthfully, those items are not even on my wish list.

What I will do is strive to increase my own personal price tag. By doing so, I will be worthy of fulfilling my needs and desires. When I begin to slip back into my old clearance-rack habits, I will remember the quote from Dave Pelzer (an inspirational author), “When you please others in hopes of being accepted, you lose you self-worth in the process.” s Donna Bonnell is a freelance writer who moved to Newberry in 1983. She enjoys living and working in the town she now calls home. donna@towerpublications.com

seniortimesmagazine.com

Coat Drive Helps Local People in Need Stay Warm Have you noticed that nice little nip in the air lately? Feels good when you ďŹ rst step out of your home in the morning doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t it? But for the nearly 2,100 persons experiencing homelessness these cool mornings are a warning of colder weather to come.

Why not take this opportunity to go through your closets and pull out your cold weather coats so theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re ready for that ďŹ rst real cold snap?

Then, while youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going through them, pull out any that you are no longer planning to use. The Alachua County Coalition for the Homeless and Hungry, Inc. (ACCHH), a 501Š(3) nonproďŹ t, is collecting new, and clean, gently used outerwear such as coats, jackets, sweatshirts and sweaters. Gloves, mittens, scarves, hats, sleeping

on Eyes

bags, tents and blankets are also welcome. Especially needed are LARGE and EXTRA LARGE adult sized coats and jackets.

Bring your clean, gently used coats to the Alachua County Housing Authority, 703 NE 1st Street in Gainesville between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Coats will be accepted now through March 1, 2013.

All donated coats will be distributed free of charge through Coalition member agencies to local people in need.

Formed in 1994 and incorporated as with the IRS as a 501Š(3) nonproďŹ t in 2002, ACCHH is a community-wide partnership that coordinates the services of more than 40 area agencies working to move Alachua Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nearly 1,800 homeless men, women and children off the streets and into safe, affordable housing. For more than a decade, the Coalition has served its member agencies, low-income households â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the working poor - and the homeless, as a clearinghouse for information and direction on service coordination, gaps analyses, advocacy and program development. s

Providing State of the Art Comprehensive Eye Care

Seeing is Believing t Cataract Surgery with No Stitches, No Needles t Diabetic, Glaucoma & Macular Degeneration Evaluations t Comprehensive Eye Exams t Contact Lens Exams t Latest, Most Oxygen Permeable Contact Lenses t Optical Shop on Site

Call today and schedule an appointment with Dr Aria Murphy or Dr Jenny Petitto

(352)372-9414 : 1(:%(55< 5' 68,7( *$,1(69,//( ::: $&&(170' &20

December 2012

21 21

22

SIXTH SENSE

Spirit of Gainesville Local Author and Spiritual Teacher Channels Creativity in New Novel

by Courtney Lindwall

S

he sits, still and calm, asking for his presence.

Her eyes are closed, but when they re-open, she will be gone. It will be Jared instead. He does not predict the future, and he won’t pretend to be perfect.

But he will answer your questions.

Jared is another type of being — and he only speaks through Shelby Beckett.

Beckett, 75, is a local spiritual consultant from Gainesville who uses channeling to learn more about the spiritual world before and after death. Recently, Beckett finished her novel, “Between,” which weaves in information she has learned from 40 years of knowing Jared.

“The story really just came to me,” Beckett said. “It’s grown. It’s expanded.”

“Between” is the story of Stacy Addison, a beautiful young girl in a coma, caught between this world and the next.

With an unusual power to spiritually heal, she becomes tempted to stay in the next world and fulfill her dreams of

22

December 2012

transforming others.

But Addison is faced with choices — a theme, Beckett said, that is crucial throughout the whole story.

“Between” is her third published work, but only her first novel. She has been writing it for 12 years, through nine different drafts. But the ideas behind the story come from even further back in Beckett’s life.

She earned degrees in Latin and Greek from the University of Akron as an undergraduate and a Master’s degree in archaeology from the University of Cincinnati. Through her studies, she learned about mythology, which she incorporates into her book.

During her time in school, Beckett was not always spiritual. In fact, she began as a skeptic. Her life had become a melting pot of beliefs, and she was not sure what she believed.

“I don’t mind people being skeptical because I was a skeptic once myself,”

23

PHOTO BY TOM MORRISSEY // MAKEUP BY TRISH ALLEN & IMAGE INSIGHT

24

PHOTOS BY KRISTIN KOZELSKY

she said.

And then she met Jared.

She was a member of a spiritual study group in Ohio, where her husband was stationed at a military base. Each week the group would perform some type of experiment. One week, the experiment involved having a communicator write through the participants, who would hold a pencil against a sheet of paper and wait for a message.

24

December 2012

For some, a message would not come.

For others, their hands would move a little bit, maybe forming letters. For Beckett, her hand began to immediately write.

She wrote letters and words — and then she wrote sentences.

The being Beckett had begun to channel was not a human, from the past or present. His name was unpronounceable, he told her. He was a being she did not understand — one she

had never encountered. But he said she could call him Jared.

Beckett began a 40-year friendship with him, during which she began teaching classes so others could ask questions of Jared, too. He taught her about life after death and why she should not be afraid. He taught her the importance of listening and learning through mistakes.

She is now able to channel Jared simply by “tuning in.” In fact, she said, tuning in has become easier than tuning out.

“I feel it like a pulsation on the right side of my face,” Beckett said.

But Beckett knows she has to be careful when opening up her mind to channeling because “there are a lot of energies out there who would really like to have a voice,” she said.

The wisdom she has gained from her friendship with Jared has inspired the basis of the novel, although the story seniortimesmagazine.com

BOOK SIGNINGS Book Gallery West 4121 NW 16th Blvd., Gainesville Saturday, January 19 @ Noon Sacred Earth Center 1029 NW 23rd Ave., Gainesville Tuesday, December 11 @ 7:00 p.m.

itself is purely fiction.

Addison, the young heroine of the story, is in a coma after a train accident — an accident modeled after an experience from Beckett’s childhood.

Once Addison has been introduced to the “Between,” characters pull her in different directions. There is the “Ominous Power” that struggles to keep Addison from going back home. There is the mentor Max, a cat who gives advice along the way. And then there is the husband and daughter that Addison left behind — the ones who she would miss the most.

Beckett hopes the story will provide a sense of comfort to readers about death.

certain direction,” she said.

Beckett often tells a story about a woman she knew through one of her spiritual classes. The woman had dreamed that her

One of the most important spiritual lessons Beckett has learned is that the future is fluid, open to change based on the decisions we make.

“There is no end to the journey,” Beckett said, describing this life as the “tip of the iceberg” or the “edge of the meadow.” Jared has taught her this.

Beckett’s other two published works, “What You Believe is What You Receive” and “How to Live Happily Ever After,” focus on Jared’s other spiritual teachings. Letting go of the bad, forgiving yourself and remaining positive are pieces of guidance Beckett now lives by.

Another one of the most important spiritual lessons Beckett has learned is that the future is fluid, open to change based on the decisions we make.

“Everything we choose turns us in a

son had died in a car accident. The dream was vivid; she knew the place.

In the dream, the son was wearing a jacket, a jacket she knew he owned.

When she woke up from the dream, the first thing she did was hide her son’s jacket. She had made a choice, Beckett said. She chose to change the outcome.

And when the son was in the car accident that his mother had predicted, Beckett recalled, the boy did not die.

Beckett has been hearing stories such as this one, giving advice and channeling Jared for decades, now. She has lived in Gainesville since the late ‘80s. Her husband, Pete Beckett, has been in Gaines-

ville 20 years longer. He has also been her biggest help in editing along the way.

“It was a lot of wonderful reading,” he said.

Beckett said that her husband would cook while she would write, and then he would be the first person to give feedback on her work. He is now happy that “Between” is finished and ready to be shared.

“It’s very rewarding to be able to get to this point and help others,” he said.

The two met at a dance on New Year’s Eve in 1999 and have been together ever since. Her husband worked for a long time at funeral homes, although he is now retired. Beckett, who was expecting to do the same, is surprised that she is now starting a new career at 75.

She wants her novel to inspire any Seniors who think they cannot start new projects. Working on “Between” has made life more interesting and exciting, she said.

“If you really feel you’ve got something to say, go ahead and say it.” s December 2012

25 25

26

COLUMN œ ELLIS AMBURN

Enjoying Act Three Yvonne De Carlo

“H

oward Hughes was hardly what I’d call a passionate lover,” Yvonne De Carlo told me.

As a child I’d loved her in “Salome, Where She Danced” in 1945. Now I was sitting next to her in Manhattan’s Italian Pavilion as a book editor auditioning a Senior star to see if she was worth $40,000, the advance I’d paid her ghost, Hector Arce, for his last book.

“Howard read a lot of stuff on the art of lovemaking,” she added. A man should explode, Hughes explained, and a woman should implode.

Talk bored her, but Hughes, a lanky, klutzy billionaire, activated her maternal instinct, and she activated his fetishes, possessing what Anthony Quinn called a goddess-like body. For Hughes her main attraction was “a nice set of lavalieres [translation: ornamental pendants].”

He met her folks, took her golfing, and taught her how to fly, or at least to take off and land, saying that nothing of importance happened in between.

When he crash-landed in Beverly Hills, Lana Turner and Linda Darnell visited him in the hospital. Yvonne knew the jig was up, and soon went on to an even more notorious playboy, Prince Aly Khan.

They were perfect for each other because Yvonne was everything his wife was not. Rita Hayworth couldn’t speak French and demonstrated no interest in

26

December 2012

the things rich women like: the races, riding, and decorating mansions.

Aly had style, money, and subtle ways as a lover: He didn’t dominate so much as tease. During a visit to Chateau de l’Horizon, his home on the Riviera, he took her to the stables and showed off his prize stud Tabriz.

Watching Tabriz nip and nuzzle a mare, Yvonne realized where Aly learned his amorous style.

Eventually, when he started talking about Gene Tierney, and how the Aga Khan, his father, had threatened to disinherit him if he ever married an actress, Yvonne knew it was time to move on again, quipping, ”Men, no matter what their promises, rarely leave their spouses, the louses.”

Besides, it was time to pay attention to her career. She returned to Hollywood and got the role of a lifetime, playing Moses’s wife in Cecil B. DeMille’s “The Ten Commandments.”

DeMille told her, “Yvonne, your great-great-grandchildren will watch this film one day.”

First, she had to survive the rigors of a DeMille shoot. On location in Egypt for the parting of the Red Sea, ten airplanes buzzed her and Charleton Heston, their propellers making enough wind to knock her down. Heston managed to stand his ground on a hilltop,

and exhorted thousands of extras to enter the path between the roiling waters.

A monster blockbuster, the picture would be shown on TV every Christmas for the next 57 years, and Yvonne went on to star with Clark Gable in “Band of Angels” and Alec Guinness in “The Captain’s Paradise.”

Finding love at last with a muscular movie stuntman, Bob Morgan, she had two sons, but the marriage fell apart after he was injured while filming on a moving train and lost a leg.

At age 49 she starred on Broadway in “Follies.” Stephen Sondheim cut her big ”Foxtrot” number in Boston, but by the time they reached New York he gave her something better: the showstopper “I’m Still Here.” Her claim to immortality rests on that song and her turn as Lily Munster on the hit CBS/TV series.

After our late 1970s lunch in New York, I visited her at her home in Hollywood, where she screened “Salome” for fans. Sitting next to me was her strikingly handsome son Bruce, who told me he was in college. We had lively conversation about literary classics.

Though Hector Arce died in 1979, I went ahead and paid Yvonne to write her memoir. She never delivered it, at least not to me. It finally came out under another imprint in 1987, dedicated to “all the kings, princes, lords, millionaires, and truck drivers I have known.”

I’d had too much fun schmoozing with Yvonne to be resentful, and was touched to learn, in 2007, that Bruce had been her caregiver in her last years, spent in a Nipomo, California, retirement community and the Motion Picture Hospital in Woodland Hills, California. s Involved daily in volunteer community service, Ellis Amburn, a High Springs resident, is the author of biographies of Roy Orbison, Elizabeth Taylor, and others. He can be reached at ellis.amburn@gmail.com.

seniortimesmagazine.com

“ c a P v a a t r o O w s

FASTEST INTERNET

DIGITAL TELEPHONE with all your ƒavorite ƒeatures

in America Rated by PCMag.com†

FREE

HBO®, SHOWTIME®, Cinemax®, & STARZ® for 3 months

TV with

100%

INTERNET ESSENTIAL TELEPHONE PREMIER TV ECONOMY

BEST DEALS

Only

online

75

$

digital picture quality

FREE

A MONTH FOR 6 MONTHS*

professional installation

866.936.7188 cox.com † “Fastest Internet” claim reprinted from www.pcmag.com, August 31, 2011 with permission. © 2011 Ziff Davis, Inc. All rights reserved.

“More people” claim based on a comparison of Q3 2011 Centris market share data report for consumers with a bundle of TV, phone and Internet in Cox service areas. © 2012 Cox Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. *Offer expires 06/30/12 and is available to residential customers in Cox FL/GA service areas. $75/month is only available for new subscriptions to all of Phone Premier, Internet Essential, and Cox TV Economy with 1 digital receiver, and HBO, Showtime, Cinemax, and Starz free for months 1-3. Other equipment options available and prices may vary. After promotion period, regular rates apply. See www.cox.com for pricing. All 4 premium channels are $20/mo. in months 4-6; regular rates thereafter. Free install limited to standard pro install on up to 1 prewired outlet. Phone Premier includes Primary Phone line, features, voicemail, and unlimited domestic long distance. Unlimited plan long distance minutes are limited to direct dialed long distance calls within the United States, U.S. Virgin Island &amp; Puerto Rico and may be used only for residential, non-commercial voice calls. Usage that is not consistent with such use may subject your account to review and/or suspension or termination of your service. Prices exclude additional installation/activation fees, additional equipment charges, inside wiring fees, additional jacks, taxes, surcharges and other fees. Telephone modem may be required for Telephone service. Telephonemodemuses household electrical power to operate and has backup battery power provided by Cox if electricity is interrupted. Telephone service, including access to e911 service, will not be available during an extended power outage or if themodemismoved or inoperable. Telephone service provided by an affiliated Cox entity. STARZ and related channels and service marks are the property of Starz Entertainment, LLC. SHOWTIME® and related marks are trademarks of Showtime Networks Inc., a CBS company. HBO® and related channels and service marks are the property of Home Box Office, Inc. Cinemax® and related channels and service marks are the property of Home Box Office, Inc.©2011 Home Box Office, Inc. All rights reserved. Digital receiver rental not required to view broadcast channels. To receive broadcast signals in digital quality, paid subscription to a minimum of Starter/limited basic and a digital receiver rental required. If you own a One-way Digital Cable Ready (DCR) TV or other display device that is CableCARD™ compatible, you may rent either a CableCARD or a digital set top receiver in order to receive digital broadcast signals. In order to receive Interactive TV services offered by Cox, such as the Interactive Programming Guide (IPG), OnDemand, and Pay-Per-View, youmust rent a digital set top receiver. If you wish to lease a CableCARD in lieu of a digital receiver, youmust obtain the CableCARD fromCox. CableCard is a registered trademark of Cable Television Laboratories, Inc. (CableLabs®) and is used with permission. Installation fees, taxes, franchise fees and other surcharges are additional. Other restrictionsmay apply. Cable modem required for Internet services. For best performance, use of Cox approved cable modem is recommended. Uninterrupted or error-free Internet service, or the speed of your service, is not guaranteed. Actual speeds vary. Not all services and features available everywhere. A credit check and/or depositmay be required. Other restrictionsmay apply. © 2012 Cox Florida/Georgia All rights reserved.

27

28

MUSIC MAKERS

Holiday Harmony The Barbergators and the Gainesville Harmony Show Chorus, Together Again

by Jewel Midelis photography by kristin kozelsky

D

uring their warm-ups, they can sing the ABCs forwards and just as fast backwards.

They can sing the phrase “Mami might move to Miami and maybe Mami might not” faster than the average person can say it. They can sing soft oohs and hum like the wind howling in the distance.

These women from the Gainesville Harmony Show Chorus, who have trained their vocal chords to do just about anything, will showcase their talents this holiday season.

Gainesville Harmony Show Chorus member Hilda Brown said her group is going to perform “Holiday Harmonies” with the Gainesville Barbergators, a men’s chorus, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Dec. 15.

The groups’ voices will reverberate throughout the concert stage at the Santa Fe College Fine Arts Hall. Admission to see the show is $15 per person.

Brown said this Christmas show is

28

December 2012

going to be different compared to other years because the men and women’s groups will be performing as one.

“We’ve done Christmas shows, but we’ve never done anything like this,” she said.

Brown, who joined the chorus after she moved to town, said all ages — from children to students to grandparents — are encouraged to sit back and hear the harmonies.

This is the first year the chorus has joined with the Santa Fe Collegiate Veterans to raise money for the newly developed Santa Fe College Scholarship Fund that will be named after the two musical groups.

Brown said a portion of the proceeds will go to the fund to help returning veterans with their education.

Co-director Diane Sherley said she has been a charter member of the group for more than 35 years.

Sherley said her father was a barber shopper, and he would sing in a barbershop quartet. In 1965, she and her family moved from Indiana to Florida, where her father joined a chorus in Gainesville.

After learning about the original Barbergators, local women became inspired to commence a musical chorus of their own.

“My mother, myself, my sister and other barbershop wives got together to start our own thing,” Sherley said. “Our family used to sing in churches, and I was always in the high school choir.”

Sherley said she is eagerly anticipating performing with the Barber Gators. seniortimesmagazine.com

December 2012

29 29

30

“We haven’t done this in many, many years,” she said. “It’s nice for the audience to hear the men’s voices.”

She said the men’s voices are much deeper and fuller compared to the women’s, which creates a variety of different dynamics; both of the groups “ring” together.

The Barbergators and Harmony Chorus Show are going to sing such Christmas classics as “The Christmas Waltz,” “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” “Jingle Bells,” “We Wish You a Merry Christmas,” a combination of “Silent

30

December 2012

Night” and “Night of Silence,” and more.

“We have always had a good relationship with the men’s chorus,” Sherley said. “We are very excited.”

Sherley’s daughter and co-director, Chanda, said she was 14 years old when she decided to join the choir group.

“It just seemed natural,” she said.

The co-director said there is nothing like entertaining, but what remains truly dear to her heart are the friendships made among the women in the group.

“We all come together for the love of music, but it just becomes more than

that,” she said. “It’s truly a second family.”

Sharleen Simpson said she has been part of the chorus for almost three decades.

The local resident said she has sung throughout her whole life — from harmonies with her family as a child to songs in college to melodies in Paraguay.

“Singing is always something I’ve done,” she said.

The retired nursing professor said she has always been a believer in people finding and channeling a creative outlet.

And for her, it is the gift of song.

“It keeps you sane,” she said.

The group is also seeking girls 14 years and older to join the chorus, Simpson said.

“We welcome everyone, especially the younger ones,” she said.

Although some women have been group members for more than 30 years, others joined less than a year ago.

Gail Keeler, who has been a member for about seven months, said the biggest challenge was memorizing all of the song lyrics.

“They’re like a well-oiled machine,” she said about the group, “and I’m just trying to learn the lyrics. They are so helpful though.”

Keeler said there is nothing more beautiful than the sound of the women performing together. seniortimesmagazine.com

Ference Insurance Agency

Douglas Wheat

352-448-3693 doug@fiemail.com 14029 W. Newberry Rd, Suite 50 Newberry, FL 32669

“When I have been in the audiences, I get goose bumps,” she said. “They were singing, and I was awestruck. It was just beautiful.”

Dick Moyer, the president of the Barbergators, said he grew up as a pianist and has been part of the group for about four years.

“Someone urged me to go to the Barbergators, and I loved it,” he said. “It’s a very good, interesting mix of people. I’m certainly not one of the top singers, but you work at it, and you can get it.”

Moyer said the group is unlike traditional barbershoppers.

“Barbershopper is the harmonic structure,” he said. “We do all kinds of things, and some of it does conform to barbershop harmonies. But, we can arrange almost any song to fit in the genre.”

The Barbergator member said he is really looking forward to performing and singing with the women.

“It is fun working with them,” Moyer said. “They are very, very good — very professional, very polished.”

Moyer said the Barbergators and Gainesville Harmony Show Chorus performance will be great for the city of Gainesville during the holiday season.

“It’s fun,” he said. “I think both groups offer something to Gainesville, which is something lovely to have.” s

Gainesville Harmony Show Chorus Holiday Show will be held on Saturday, December 15 at 7:00 p.m. in the Santa Fe College Fine Arts Hall. Partial proceeds to benefit the Santa Fe College Scholarship Fund and Collegiate Veterans Society. Call 352-3954181 or visit www.sfcollege.edu/finearts for more information.

Florida Blue is a trade name of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida Inc., an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. 74706-0912

One-Bedroom Apartments with Utilities We do Business in Accordance with the Federal Fair Housing Act The Gainesville Housing Authority (GHA) is accepting housing applications at The 400 Building for Senior and Disabled Adults (accessible units available). These one-bedroom units are located at 400 NW 1st Avenue and utilities are provided.

Applicants must meet eligibility screening criteria (income and security background check). Rents are subsidized and are based on family income. The 400 Building for Senior and Disabled Adults is convenient to shopping, downtown, and transportation.

Contact Becky or Lisa @ (352) 872-5500 TDD (352) 872-5503

December 2012

31 31

32

BREAK A LEG

Players Take the Stage Developing Theater Company is Set to Perform at its New Outdoor Venue

by Bonnie Kretchik

I

magine attending an outdoor performance on a beautiful December afternoon in a peaceful, serene setting. The actors and actresses range in age from six to 60, each bringing to the performance their own talents and range of experiences.

Some boast an impressive and professional acting resume while others will take to the stage for the first time.

The excitement in the air is palpable as this unique group of performers assemble for the first time as a cast.

People may anticipate having to travel to take in such a show, to maybe bigger cities like Orlando or Tampa. However, this performance takes place in Ocala.

The Damselfly Family Theatre Company is a small group of individuals who love their craft. They have been developing the tightknit company since its founding in 2009. The group’s upcoming performance, “The Snow Queen” will debut this December at Sholom Park.

32

December 2012

“It’s going to be a great show and the outdoor setting fits the play perfectly,” said Kim Lynette-Hawksey, the founder of the company. Lynette-Hawksey is no stranger to the theater, having written

intentions, has always seemed to “plant” theater wherever she finds herself.

“I’ve found that my gift is as a theater planter,” she said, noting that while her original intention had been to act, she

“We bloom where we are planted, and right now this is where I’m planted.” and produced her first play at age 11 and acted in, directed and produced over 400 productions in her career.

“I didn’t come from a traditional ‘theater family,’” she said. “My parents weren’t involved, but I just always knew I wanted to act.”

Throughout the span of her career, Lynette-Hawksey has been a member of speech teams, competed in beauty pageants, and earned a scholarship to the prestigious American Academy of Dramatic Arts in the 1970s.

She has lived in many different cities throughout her life and, regardless of her

found herself in the roles of writer, producer and director more often than not.

And now she is in Marion County where she has once again “planted theater.” Upon first arriving to the area, she helped found Saints on Stage, a theater group at St. John Lutheran School where her son is a student.

“There was no theater program when we moved here,” she said. “Theater is always last on everybody’s list.”

Her knack for “theater planting” — along with her passion for the art form and just a touch of fate — is what led to the founding of Damselfly and the use of seniortimesmagazine.com

The Snow Queen will be performed: December 8 - 1:00 p.m. & December 9 - 2:00 p.m.

Sholom Park, 840 SW 80th Avenue, Ocala Admission is free and open to the public Call 352-427-1628 for more information

PHOTO BY ROB SENECHAL Ruby and Giselle Martinez along with Brittany Higginbotham rehearse for their opening-night performance of The Snow Queen.

its latest venue, Sholom Park.

She founded the theater company a few years after a tragic medical error took the life of her 25-year-old daughter, Dianna, in 2004.

“I was so disillusioned with everything

after she died, I vowed I’d never work in theater again,” she said recalling those dark days. But she turned to her art to help heal from the tragedy and wrote an original play, “Damselfly,” about the life of her daughter. The Damselfly Fam-

ily Theater Company was founded as a springboard for the play and the newly formed group of actors’ first performance was at Rasmussen College in March of 2009 where it was met with great success.

“I didn’t know how I could get it done, December 2012

33 33

34

Florida Eye Specialist Institute

Dr. Latif Hamed, M.D. FAAO AMERICAN BOARD OF OPHTHALMOLOGY VOTED IN

Best Doctors America

NEW PATIENTS WELCOME! ROUTINE EYE EXAMS FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY ON-SITE OPTICAL SAME-DAY GLASSES

ARE YOU TIRED OF GLASSES? CATARACTS SLOWING YOU DOWN? ADVANCED CATARACT CT SURGERY WITH ASTIGMATISM CORRECTION MPLANT & MULTIFOCAL IMPLANT •

•

No Shot, No Stitch, No Patch Cataract Surgery Enhanced Cataract Procedure with ReStore and Crystalens NEW Glaucoma Treatment Eyelid Plastic Surgery Double Vision/ Strabismus Dry Eye Therapy NEW Macular Degeneration treatments Neuro Ophthalmology

•

•

®

•

• •

• •

•

• •

• •

Routine Eye Examinations Laser Surgery Diabetic Retinopathy Flashers and Floaters Botox Injections Second Opinions

ABOUT DR. HAMED

Former professor and Chief of Division at UF Shands Recipient of the HEED Fellowship Award Honor Award recipient from the American Academy of Ophthalmology

Fellowships at the prestigious Bascom Palmer Eye Institute and at John Hopkins Personally trained dozens of eye surgeons practicing worldwide Authored several widely used ophthalmic reference texts

“Now whether I’m reading a putt, reading an email or reading to my granddaughter I’ve got my Zoom back. I don’t have to depend on glasses all the time.”

Gary Player, GRAND SLAM GOLF CHAMPION AND MULTIFOCAL IMPLANT PATIENT

ADVANCED LASER SURGICAL & MEDICAL EYE CARE Accepting all new Medicare Plans!

Most insurance plans accepted and filed for you.

call

352-237-0090

but I knew I could,” she said. So, as has been her style all her life, Lynette-Hawksey found herself in the midst of forming a theater company from scratch.

“This is where my heart is and this is what has helped me heal,” she said, noting that the name of the company and the original play is in reference to a dragonfly tattoo that Diana had on her shoulder.

Slowly but surely more and more actors began to surface, some with stage and television experience to their credits and some who have never read a line.

More performances followed including “Dr. Doolittle” and “Tom Sawyer.” As the company expanded, a new opportunity to perform at the Sholom Park became just the ticket for the Damselfly players to select a new play to fit their latest venue.

“Through a friend of a friend I met Robert Colen, the nephew of Sholom Park founder, Sidney Colen,” Lynette-Hawksey said. She explained that Sidney had always wanted to see theater performed in the park and as fate would have it, Lynette-Hawksey had been married in Sholom Park years earlier so the setting holds a special meaning to her as well.

“We bloom where we are planted,” Lynette-Hawksey said. “And right now this is where I’m planted.”

The upcoming production of “The Snow Queen” is an adaptation of the fairytale by Hans Christian Anderson written in 1845. The story centers around two children, Kai and Gerda, who are neighbors and best friends. One snowy night, Kai’s grandmother regales the children with stories of an evil snow queen when, as Lynette-Hawksey said, “something happens.”

“It’s a story about good triumphing over evil and love always winning in the end,” she said, not wanting to give the story away. She explained that fairytales were originally written for adults so there are very deep and psychological themes running throughout. However, she said that the performance is appro-

3230 SW 33RD RD. OCALA, FLORIDA

seniortimesmagazine.com

GAS

DOLLARS ECONOMY BUSTER COUPONS BELOW

DENTURE DOLLARS

410

$ $90

PHOTO BY ROB SENECHAL Kim Lynette-Hawksey, founder of Damselfly Family Theatre Company.

t

( D714 0 )

(D5110, D5120)

With Coupon

140

$

Same Day Service*

t

Complex Tooth Extraction ( D7210 )

On - Site Lab

Financing Available FL Medicaid Accepted For Dentures Only t

t

Affordable Dentures - Gainesville, P. A. Stephan M. Showstark, D.M.D. General Dentist

Springhill Commons Shopping Center 9200 NW 39th Ave, Ste 200, Gainesville FL No Appointment Necessary

(352) 376-8229 GAS DOLLARS

15

$

OFF

Any Denture or Denture Package

DENTURE DOLLARS 2 0 1 0 7 - 8 - V 1 .2

priate and fun for all ages.

“We’ve got songs, we’ve got animals coming to life, we’ve got a Scandinavian crow with a Long Island accent,” she said describing the dynamics of the performance. “It really is a lot of fun and I think the audience will enjoy it.”

She explained that she wanted a piece that was spiritual in nature during this time of year, but not attached to any particular religion.

“I wanted everyone to have access to the play and to enjoy it regardless of religion,” she said. And while Damselfly is still in the evolving stages of a theater company, Lynette-Hawksey has every reason to believe the production will be a success.

“The setting is sublime and while we don’t have a ton of props and a costume closet, we have a lot of love for each other and our art and the audience will see that in the performance,” she said, noting that Damselfly is referred to as a “family theater company” because she considers everyone involved a part of a family.

Lynette-Hawksey already has her sights set on a spring production at Sholom Park and will also be teaching an acting class in January at On Top Of The World. She holds open auditions and hosts a workshop for those with little or no acting experience.

While her daughter’s death was a tragedy that almost took her away from the theater, it also inspired her and helped her recover. The Damselfly Family Theatre Company is more than just a group of actors, they are group of people who love each other and love what they do. And in Lynette-Hawksey’s opinion, that is what it takes to make for a great show. s

Routine Tooth Extraction

Economy Full Set

50

OFF

$

Any Custom Denture or Higher

Offers good only at Affordable Dentures-Gainesville, P. A. $50 denture discount good on any one individual denture purchase at the Custom level or higher – Full Upper or Lower, Partial, or Full Set. $15 gas discount good on any one individual denture purchase, or package denture purchase at any level. The denture and gas coupons can be combined on any one individual denture purchase at the Custom level or higher. Coupon must be presented at time of initial payment and cannot be combined with any other coupons, discounts, package price, insurance benefit or prior order. Offer expires 04/30/13 and may change without notice.

1-800-DENTURE

AffordableDentures.com/gas *Same Day Service on Economy Dentures, in most cases, if in by 7:45 a.m. Additional fees may be incurred depending on individual cases. We gladly accept Cash, Checks with ID, Visa, MasterCard, and Discover as payment for our services. Advertised fees effective through 11/22/13. These are minimum fees and charges may increase depending on the treatment required. THE PATIENT AND ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS A RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT, OR BE REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT THAT IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED FEE, OR REDUCED FEE SERVICE, EXAMINATION OR TREATMENT.

December 2012

35 35

36

COLUMN œ KENDRA SILER-MARSIGLIO

Healthy Edge Hepatitis C Virus Update: Baby Boomers, Get Tested!

B

orn between 1945 and 1965? The Centers of Disease Control (CDC) recommends that you have a one-time testing for Hepatitis C virus (HCV).

Although Baby Boomers represent a third of the U.S. population, they account for approximately 75 percent all HCV infections and HCV-associated mortality.

If you’re a Boomer, you’re at the highest risk for hepatocellular carcinoma and other HCV-related liver diseases.

Yet, a recent American Gastroenterological Association survey shows that the vast majority of Boomers don’t take HCV seriously. They think they’re not at risk for HCV. If you’re a Boomer, please consider getting tested for this silent (but treatable) killer.

What is HCV? HCV causes liver inflammation. Because its initial presentation is so mild, most people have no clue they’re infected.

If you acquire HCV, one of the only outward signs you may notice is flulike symptoms. Inside, your liver tissue could become irreversibly damaged and scarred over time.

Of every 100 persons infected with HCV: • 75–85 develop chronic infection • 60–70 develop chronic liver disease • 5–20 develop cirrhosis in 20–30 years • 1–5 die from HCV complications, such as liver cancer or cirrhosis.

HCV is the leading cause of liver

36

December 2012

transplants. Fortunately, treatments are available that can clear the HCV infection from your body.

In a minority of cases, people who get HCV can fight off the infection without treatment. Since most people require treatment to kick the virus, and our immune system function seems to decline as we age, ignoring testing or treatment is not a safe bet.

Who should get tested?

The CDC suggests that you get tested for HCV, if you fall under one of the below categories: • People born between 1945 and 1965 (recent recommendation) • Blood transfusion or solid organ transplant recipients before July 1992 (testing blood for HCV began in 1992) • Chronic hemodialysis recipients • Vietnam-era veterans • Current or former injection drug users (even if you only injected once) • Clotting factor recipients before 1987 • Those with a known HCV exposure

Is there a cure?

Two FDA-approved drugs — Vertex Pharmaceuticals’ telaprevir and Merck’s boceprevir — directly attack the most common strain of HCV. When added to the standard HCV treatment regimen (i.e., an interferonbased drug and another class of antiviral

medication called a nucleoside analog), these antiviral drugs can cut treatment times from one year to six months.

Patients getting treatment for the first time do best, but even some patients with more challenging cases can reach HCV-free status. Ask your doctor about testing and how to proceed if you test positive for HCV.

If you have HCV, what else do you need to know?

The CDC suggests that those with HCV can avoid spreading the virus to others by taking the following precautions: • Practice safe sex (there’s a risk, albeit low, of transmitting HCV to sex partners).

• Avoid sharing personal items that might have blood on them (e.g., toothbrushes, razors).

• Cover cuts and sores.

HCV isn’t spread by sneezing, coughing, hugging, hand holding, sharing eating utensils or drinking glasses, or through food or water. In the absence of blood-to-blood contact, there’s no evidence of HCV transmission.

CDC suggests that you can protect your liver and health by: • Avoiding alcohol.

• Considering hepatitis A and B vaccination, especially if liver disease is present.

• Checking with your doctor before taking any medicines or supplements.

• Building an emotional support system.

• Getting to your proper weight and maintaining it by eating healthy and exercising.

In Gainesville, the HCV support group meets at Trinity United Methodist Church. For more information, email sstreit58@hotmail.com or call 352-2650680 ext 46524. s Kendra Siler-Marsiglio, Ph.D. is the Director of the Rural Health Partnership at WellFlorida Council. To learn more about HCV, visit www.IDHepC.org.

seniortimesmagazine.com

12-21-12

37

38

CALENDAR UPCOMING EVENTS IN ALACHUA & MARION TRASHFORMATIONS Through December 31 5:30pm GAINESVILLE - Natural History Museum, Hull Road and Southwest 34th Street. Ever wonder how milk jugs morph into beautiful wading birds or how gears and gadgets become gigantic bugs?

See how middle school, high school and college students transform “waste” into creative works of art! 352-846-2000. www.gvlculturalaffairs.org.

THE CHAMPIONSHIP SEASONS Through January 5, 2013 Times Vary GAINESVILLE - The Thomas Center, 302 NE Sixth Ave. THE CHAMPIONSHIP SEASONS - Through the Lens of the Gainesville Sun features more than 50 of the paper’s finest photographs documenting UF’s three National Championship football seasons. The work on display will convey the vast range of human emotion from the 1996, 2006 and 2008 football seasons. 352-393-8532. www.alachuacounty.us.

CELEBRATE DESIGN Through January 5 Times Vary GAINESVILLE - Thomas Center, 302 NE Sixth Ave. This exhibition includes a selection of projects from the local AIA (American Institute of Architects) chapter and the national AIA organization. AIA is professional association seeking to further the profession and public awareness. 352393-8532. www.gvlculturalaffairs.org.

Office, 2800 NE 39th Ave. This program has been approved to issue certificates evidencing completion of a personal financial management instructional course in compliance with the Bankruptcy Code.

Bring the case number. Pre-register by calling 352-955-2402. alachua.ifas.ufl.edu.

Dates Vary 6:00pm - 9:00pm GAINESVILLE - The Oaks Mall, 6419 Newberry Road. Special time with Santa for furry friends.

Bring a favorite tail wagger for a portrait with Santa on the following Monday nights: Dec. 3, Dec. 10 and Dec. 17. Capture that special moment and take home the memory that will last a lifetime. Photo packages available for purchase. Santa welcomes dogs and cats only. www.theoaksmall.com.

NONPROFIT STARTUP 101 Tuesday, December 4 3:00pm GAINESVILLE - Santa Fe Center for Innovation and Economic Development, 530 W. University Ave. Consider turning a passion of helping people into a nonprofit organization. Presenters are the co-founders of the Nonprofit Center of North Central Florida Chris Johnson, executive director; and Kari Brill, director of business and program development. 352395-5053. www.sfcollege.edu/cied.

PTI LEADERSHIP COUNCIL MEETING Tuesday, December 4

Through January 6

2:30pm - 4:00pm GAINESVILLE - Senior Recreation Center, 5701 NW 34th St. This business meeting is open to PTI Members, and visitors who are considering becoming members. 352367-8169. eldercare.ufandshands.org.

FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT WORKSHOP — BANKRUPTCY Monday, December 3 12:30pm - 4:30pm GAINESVILLE - Alachua County Extension

38

December 2012

Wednesday, December 5 7:30pm GAINESVILLE - Phillips Center, UF. The Trey McIntyre Project burst onto the national dance scene in 2005 and has quickly established itself as a power among contemporary companies. Known for its “fresh and forwardthinking choreography (The Washington Post),” the group is guided by Trey McIntyre’s unparalleled ear for musical structures, with a repertoire covering multiple genres.

352-392-ARTS. performingarts.ufl.edu.

ANNIE MOSES BAND CONCERT Wednesday, December 5

ST. NICK’S PET PICKS

THE MODERN IMPULSE Times Vary GAINESVILLE - Harn Museum, Southwest 34th Street and Hull Road. The Modern Impulse showcases more than 135 photographs, books, illustrated magazines and films drawn from four regions that were among the era’s most prominent centers of photographic innovation — France and the Czech Republic in Europe, and New York and California in the U.S. 352-392-9826. www.harn.ufl.edu.

TREY MCINTYRE PROJECT

CELEBRATING THE END OF THE WORLD, MAYA STYLE Wednesday, December 5 7:00pm - 9:00pm GAINESVILLE - Museum of Natural History, Hull Road and Southwest 34th Street. Is the sky really falling? Will the world really end? Learn more about the Mayans and their predictions while exploring their culture and traditions at this free evening event. 352-273-2061. www.flmnh.ufl.edu.

7:00pm GAINESVILLE - Trinity United Methodist Church, 4000 NW 53rd Ave. They create a sound that is both refreshing and familiar with their blend of fiddle, jazz and classical influences fused with soaring, folk-inspired vocals. This family is pulling new fans from across musical genres to their eclectic style of music making and is a tapestry of Americana favorites and original tunes. Cost is $8. 352-376-6615. www.trinitygnv.org.

WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP COUNCIL LUNCHEON Thursday, December 6 11:00am - 1:00pm GAINESVILLE - Gainesville Golf and Country Club, 7300 SW 35th Way. Heart-warming updates on ReadingPals and Elementary Essentials.

Bring new or gently read books to fill up the Book Nook shelf that day! Complete holiday shopping with 15-percent of the proceeds benefiting United Way. All proceeds benefit the Women’s Leadership Council initiative. Cost is $40. 352-333-0854. wlclunch.eventbrite.com.

HERE WE COME A CAROLING! Thursday, December 6 TBA GAINESVILLE - Senior Recreation Center, 5701 NW 34th St. Gary Langford, the popular and recently retired University of Florida Professor of Music and local jazz musician will review Christmas music over the years. He will play CDs of various popular Christmas music styles. He is currently the Music Director and Conductor of the Alachua County Youth Orchestra.

352-367-8169. eldercare.ufandshands.org.

TOBACCO FREE PARTNERSHIP OF MARION COUNTY Thursday, December 6 3:30pm - 5:00pm OCALA - United Way of Marion County, 1401 NE Second St. Meetings are open to the community. Join to address all tobacco issues affecting Marion County. RSVP by Dec. 3. 352-682-1915. www.tfp-marion.org.

seniortimesmagazine.com

NOT YOUR GRANDMOTHER’S EMBROIDERY Thursday, December 6 9:30am - 11:55am GAINESVILLE - Senior Recreation Center, 5701 NW 34th St. Quilters of Alachua County Day Guild’s Machine Embroidery Bee will show the ways modern sewing machines create amazing projects. Join QACDG for a guided tour of embroidery today, see how these new machines push the envelope and open creative doors. 352-373-7791. www.qacdg.org.

SERVICES FOR SENIORS SERIES Thursday, December 6 10:30am - Noon GAINESVILLE - Tower Road Library, 3020 SW 75th St. The Gainesville Alliance of Professionals Helping Seniors discusses Family Legacies. Learn how to start and guide legacy conversations.

Participate in a discussion of values, wishes, goals and dreams. Learn and discuss the four pillars of your family legacy: Values and life lessons, personal possessions of emotional value, financial and real estate, instructions and wishes to be fulfilled. 352-333-2840. www.aclib.us.

HOPE ILLUMINATES CANDLELIGHT REMEMBRANCE Friday, December 7 6:00pm - 9:00pm OCALA - Highland Memorial Park, 1515 NE Third St. The remembrance will include music performed by the Oakcrest Baptist Church Hand Bell Choir accompanied by the Memorial Baptist Church Children’s Choir, an inspirational speaker, a memorial video tribute, and an interactive candle lighting followed by a cookie and hot chocolate social. Free. 352-671-6466.

CANDLELIGHT VISITS Friday, December 7 6:00pm - 9:00pm GAINESVILLE - Historic Haile Homestead, 8500 SW Archer Road. A rare opportunity to experience the 1856 original plantation house decorated for the holidays and stunningly illuminated by the glow of candles and soft lights, much as it may have looked when the Haile family lived there. $10 donation; children, free. Free refreshments.

352-336-9096. www.hailehomestead.org.

OCALA’S BIGGEST HOLIDAY OFFICE PARTY Friday, December 7 7:00pm - 11:00pm OCALA - Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club, 8300 NW First Lane Road. Ocala’s Biggest Holiday Office Party and War of the Hoses benefiting Children’s Home Society and Kids Central, Inc. 352-6296229. www.goldenocala.com.

The Nutcracker December 14 — December 16 Times Vary GAINESVILLE - Phillips Center, UF. Dance Alive National Ballet presents its 47th Annual Nutcracker. Entrancing, enchanting and exciting, The Nutcracker is a ballet for the young at heart of all ages. 352-392-ARTS. performingarts.ufl.edu.

Car Show w n Cruise-In Saturday, December 8 6:00pm - 9:00pm GAINESVILLE - Springhilll Commons, 9200 NW 39th Ave. Ca Carr Sh Show Show/Cruise-In ow/C /Cruiise-In In h hosted osted by the Gainesville Street Rods. Founded more than 20 years ago by a group of automobile lovers who meet to show and tell “all that will listen” about their Street Rods and/or Classic Cars. Free. 352-658-1477. www.gainesvillestreetrods.com.

CHRISTMAS CONCERT Friday, December 7 7:00pm ALACHUA - First Baptist Church of Alachua, 14005 NW 146th Ave. “Welcome to our World,” a Christmas concert.

386-462-1337. fbcalachua.com.

SLEEPING BEAUTY AND THE SAVING PRINCE Saturday, December 8 6:30pm - 8:00pm GAINESVILLE - Santa Fe College Fine Arts Hall, 3000 NW 83rd St. With a passion for dance and a heart for worship, Doxa Dance Company presents its second annual ballet production of Sleeping Beauty and the Saving Prince, a classic tale of unconditional love. A familyfriendly night at the theater. 352-8701208. www.doxadancestudio.com.

16TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE Saturday, December 8 10:00am - 5:00pm MICANOPY - 508 Tuscawilla Road. Art, crafts, live music and frivolities bring together an array of friends and neighbors from close and far. This has become a tradition on Micanopy’s Tuscawilla Road. 352-466-4973.

HOLIDAY COOKIE WALK Saturday, December 8 11:00pm OCALA - First Congregational United Church of Christ, 7171 SW Highway 200. Join the cookie walk and select from dozens of delicious cookies, including sugar free and gluten free.

Stock up for holiday guests; a great holiday gift. 352-237-3035. www.uccocala.org.

December 2012

39 39

40

A AFTERNOON WITH M.W. AN GORDON G SSunday, December 9 2 2:00pm - 4:00pm G GAINESVILLE - Headquarters Library, 401 E. U University Ave. M.W. Gordon, local author of tthe Macduff Brooks Fly Fishing Mysteries, will bbe reading from and signing his first novel: ““Deadly Drifts.” Gordon spent his career as a llaw professor and legal consultant, traveling aand lecturing. He also served on panels that rresolved trade disputes between Mexico and C Canada. 352-334-3939. www.aclib.us.

Jingle Bell Ball

G GENEALOGY: REUNITE WITH FAMILY ANCESTRY F

Friday, December 7 @ 7:00pm

Monday, December 10 M

GAINESVILLE - Thomas Center, 302 NE 6th Ave. Begin the holiday season with Thomas Center Associates annual Jingle Bell Ball, a festive night of dinner and dancing.

The ball is catered by Chef Brothers and music is provided by Vic Donnell Trio with special guest Russ Robinson. Holiday attire. 352-334-5064. www.gvlculturalaffairs.org.

HANDEL’S MESSIAH Saturday, December 8 7:30pm GAINESVILLE - University Auditorium, UF. A Choral Masterwork, Maestro Dr. Will Kesling directs the Gainesville Civic Chorus and Philharmonic Orchestra in a presentation of George Frideric Handel’s “Messiah.” Tickets are available at Ticketmaster, and the UF Auditorium box office, $20 (Seniors and students $5 discount). www.gcchorus.org.

CASSELS CHRISTIAN ACADEMY FUNDRAISER Saturday, December 8 4:00pm - 7:30pm STARKE - Cassels Christian Academy, 202 W. Market Road West. The Beck Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge Dealership of Starke will join with parents and teachers at Cassels Christian Academy during their Christmas celebration for a fundraiser. Parents and guests will have an opportunity to earn a $10 contribution for the school from the Chrysler brand by testdriving a 2012 Chrysler Town & Country. 904-3689907. www.casselschristianacademy.com.

LESSONS AND CAROLS SERVICE Sunday, December 9 11:00am - 7:00pm GAINESVILLE - United Church of Gainesville, 1624 NW Fifth Ave. Spend some time reveling in the beauty of traditional and non-traditional Christmas music offered by instrumentalists, and adult, youth and children’s choirs interspersed with the heart-warming story of Jesus’ birth. 352-378-3500. ucgainesville.org.

40

December 2012

NEVER FORGOTTEN, ALWAYS REMEMBERED

N Noon - 1:00pm GAINESVILLE - Headquarters Library, 401 E. University Ave. Explore library resources for researching genealogy and family history with retired librarian Bobby Powell. 352-334-3900. www.aclib.us.

BASICS OF ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE/DEMENTIA

Sunday, December 9

Tuesday, December 11

2:00pm OCALA - Hospice of Marion County Center for Caring & Education, 3231 SW 34th Ave. Hospice of Marion County and the Interfaith Alliance of Marion County invite the public to a community tribute. This service will honor those no longer with us through devotional music, inspirational readings and a memory writing wall. The nondenominational memorial is open to anyone who wishes to remember a loved one. Free.

352-854-5230. www.hospiceofmarion.com.

DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

ALACHUA COUNTY YOUTH ORCHESTRA WINTER CONCERT Sunday, December 9 7:30pm GAINESVILLE - Phillips Center, UF. Free public performance of the Alachua County Youth Orchestra. The ACYO features talented middle school and high school string, brass, woodwind and percussion players. acyo.org.

HOLIDAY TRADITIONS: A MUSICAL CELEBRATION Sunday, December 9 4:00pm GAINESVILLE - Phillips Center, UF. Joyous sounds of the season fill the Phillips Center at a heart-warming “kids helping kids” holiday concert. Gather the family and friends and attend this festive performance by the Alachua County Youth Orchestra, the Gainesville Youth Chorus and area high school choral groups. Support Stop Children’s Cancer and UF Pediatric Clinical Trials. For tickets contact 352-377-2622. www.StopChildrensCancer.org.

3:00pm - 4:30pm OCALA - Brentwood Assisted Living Community, 4511 SW 48th Ave. The Alzheimer’s Association is presenting a free workshop on the symptoms, risk factors, treatments and other available resources for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Call 800272-3900 to register. www.alz.org/cnfl.

Monthly Meeting Wednesday, December 12 11:00am - 1:00pm GAINESVILLE - Wesley United Methodist Church, 826 NW 23rd Blvd. December program — Holiday Celebration, a festive concert with the Gainesville Harmony Show Chorus. The price of the lunch is $12, payable at the door. Checks should be be made out to Gainesville Chapter NSDAR. RSVP to Judith Del Buco 386-454-7214 or search. gene@yahoo.com. Deadline to RSVP is Dec. 7.

BASICS OF ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE/DEMENTIA Wednesday, December 12 3:00pm - 4:30pm GAINESVILLE - Headquarters Library, 401 E. University Ave. The Alzheimer’s Association Central and North Florida Chapter is coordinating a free educational presentation at the Alachua Library. They will discuss the difference between Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, risk factors, symptoms, treatments and resources. Call 800-272-3900 to register. www.alz.org/cnfl.

seniortimesmagazine.com

MUSEUM NIGHTS: KWANZAA Thursday, December 13 6:00pm - 9:00pm GAINESVILLE - Harn Museum of Art, Hull Road and Southwest 34th Street. To mark the Kwanzaa holiday season, the Harn will present a program that introduces the evening with an invocation by elders of the Gainesville community. Enjoy musical performances and tours of African American and African works in the Harn’s collection. 352-392-9826. www.harn.ufl.edu.

The Gainesville Civic Chorus and Philharmonic Orchestra Dr. Will Kesling • Music Director & Conductor

Perform in Concert

COON HOLLO CHRISTMAS Thursday, December 13 6:00pm - 9:30pm MICANOPY - Coon Hollo, 22480 N. Highway 441. Free admission includes outdoor Christmas classic movies under the stars, a nativity hayride, choirs, carolers, lights, and a gingerbread house contest. Also enjoy a horse-drawn “sleigh” ride, pictures with Santa and even an ice slide (Saturday night only) for an additional charge.

352-591-0441. coonhollocornmaze.com.

HOLIDAY LUNCH Friday, December 14 11:30am - 1:00pm GAINESVILLE - Eastside High School, 1201 SE 45th Terrace. Holiday lunch prepared by the students of the “Hungry Ram,” Eastside’s acclaimed Culinary Arts Institute. By popular request, the menu will again include their own key lime pie. Music by the “Generations” Quartet. $17 per person. Sign up at a PTI program or call Lee Wiegand at 352-336-8172

by Dec. 6. eldercare.ufandshands.org.

7:30 pm Saturday December 8, 2012 U N I V E R S I T Y O F F L O R I DA AU D I T O R I U M Tickets are $20 with a $5 Discount for seniors and students through Ticket Master and the PCPA box office 352.392.2787

You’re Invited... ... for a courtesy consultation!

CHOCOLATE AND CHAMPAGNE HOLIDAY GALA Saturday, December 15

If you are afraid to smile, but more afraid of what it will require to help you regain optimal oral health, relax! With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Angel Reyes and his staff know how to help and will give you many options so that you can decide what’s best for you.

8:00pm GAINESVILLE - Phillips Center, UF. Dance Alive National Ballet presents dining, dancing and shopping — all rolled into one great party!

With the Nutcracker Winter Wonderland as the backdrop, dance onstage to the fabulous sounds of Gosia and Ali, dine on gourmet delights, sip on complimentary champagne and wine, indulge in decadent desserts, and enjoy exclusive holiday shopping at a silent auction. 352-392-ARTS. performingarts.ufl.edu.

GAINESVILLE HARMONY SHOW CHORUS HOLIDAY SHOW Saturday, December 15 7:00pm GAINESVILLE - Santa Fe College Fine Arts Hall, 3000 NW 83rd St. The Gainesville Harmony Show Chorus and the Gainesville Barbergators join to bring the best of Holiday Harmony. Price TBA. 352-395-4181. www.sfcollege.edu/finearts.

Call for a courtesy consultation.

You’l be glad you did!

Angel I. Reyes DMD, MAGD.

352-376-6366

3731 NW 40th Terrace, Gainesville

& Associates COMPREHENSIVE & IMPLANT DENTISTRY

December 2012

41 41

42

CHACALA ON HORSEBACK Saturday, December 15 10:00am - Noon GAINESVILLE - Paynes Prairie, 100 Savannah Blvd. This a BOH (Bring your Own Horse) event!

Enjoy a ranger-guided tour on horseback down the lovely Chacala trail. Contact Amber Roux for more information and to RSVP. Park admission is $4 per individual, $6 per vehicle.

352-466-4966. www.floridastateparks.org.

NEWBERRY MAIN STREET FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS Saturday, December 15

Downtown Countdown Monday, December 31 9:00pm - 12:30am GAINESVILLE - Bo Diddley Community Plaza, Southeast First Street and East University Avenue. New Year’s celebration. The free concert. At the stroke of midnight, there will be showers of streamers and confetti along with the sounds of noisemakers passed out to the audience earlier in the evening. Headlining the concert is the band Fast Lane. This six-piece band plays a blend of R&B, funk, soul and rock and roll. 352-393-8746. ballarddg@cityofgainesville.org. www.gvlculturalaffairs.org.

1:00pm - 8:00pm NEWBERRY - Main Street. Vendors start in the afternoon for family fun, Christmas Parade begins at 5 p.m., followed by Santa and Mrs. Claus in the Pocket Park and music through 8 p.m. 352-472-2112. NewberryMainStreet.org.

Dec. 15, Dec. 16 4:00pm GAINESVILLE - Phillips Center, UF. Dance Alive National Ballet presents the perfect ending to a perfect day! After enjoying The Nutcracker performance, meet the Sugar Plum Fairy and her court — touch a snowflake, tease a mouse, enjoy a tea party only a Sugar Plum Fairy could present. Holiday photos available. A wonderful memory for a child or grandchild. 352-392-ARTS.

Noon – Midnight HIGH SPRINGS – Ginnie Springs. Live bands, food, vendors. $10 per person with toy; $20 per person without a toy. Toys donated to area children by the Christian Motorcycle Association.

Gates open at 9 a.m., bands begin at noon.

352-318-3190. www.toysoldierrun.com.

THE GAINESVILLE POPS CHRISTMAS CONCERT

A HOLIDAY TO REMEMBER

Saturday, December 15

Dec. 15, Dec. 16

3:00pm GAINESVILLE - First United Methodist Church, 419 NE First St. The Gainesville Pops presents music for the whole family in its Fifth Annual Christmas concert, “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year.” Selections include music from “How

Times Vary OCALA - Our Lady of the Springs Parish Hall, 4047 NE 21st St. A musical revue of favorite Christmas and holiday songs for every age. Dinner Theatre presentation. Meal includes turkey, ham, mashed potatoes, gravy, stuffing, sweet potatoes — all the

Erica Canova, M.D. Jennifer Thompson, P.A.-C Tara Andrisin, P.A.-C

352-332-4442

www.GainesvilleFLDerm.com December 2012

Times Vary OCALA - Ocala Breeders Sales Complex, 1701 SW 60th Ave. Be wowed by spectacular holiday music from Ocala Symphony Orchestra. Favorites like “Sleigh Ride” and a narrated version of “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” will be side-by-side with music from the movies, and the music of Chip Davis’ Mannheim Steamroller.

Dec. 15 at 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 16 at 3:00 p.m. 352-351-1606. ocalasymphony.com.

Saturday, December 15

GENE GENERAL NER RAL DERMATOLOGY SKIN CANCER SURGERY MOHS SURGERY SKIN CANCER SCREENING

42

Dec. 15 - Dec. 16

SUGAR PLUM TEA

New Patients Welcome!

114 NW 76TH DRIVE GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA

OSO POPS! GOES THE HOLIDAYS, A MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER CELEBRATION

TOY SOLDIER RUN

MEDICARE AND ALMOST ALL INSURANCE PLANS ACCEPTED

Anthony Aulisio, M.D. Keith Whitmer, M.D. Miranda Whitmer, M.D.

the Grinch Stole Christmas,” the classic carol “Good King Wenceslas” in a jazzy style, and Leroy Anderson’s wintry holiday song, “Sleigh Ride.”

Free. 352-339-6839. gainesvillepops.com.

Advertise Here for as little as $219 per month!

To request more information and a copy of the rate card, please contact us through our website.

www.seniortimesmagazine.com seniortimesmagazine.com

holiday traditions! There will be holiday punches, a cash bar, raffle baskets and Christmas gifts for sale from the gift box. Dec. 15 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 16 at 1 p.m. $30 per person. 352-236-2274.

FESTIVAL OF NINE LESSONS AND CAROLS Sunday, December 16 5:00pm GAINESVILLE - First Presbyterian Church, The annual Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, based on the renowned Festival of King’s College, Cambridge, celebrates the Advent season. The community is invited to come and to sing and hear lessons and carols for Advent and Christmas with choirs and congregation. Music includes the familiar carols and traditional songs of the season. 352-377-6577. www.1stpc.org.

FALL SUNDAYS Sunday, December 16 2:00pm - 4:00pm HIGH SPRINGS - James Paul Park, 110 NW First Ave. The City of High Springs will present a free fall concert in the park series, featuring local musicians and talent at James Paul Park, located behind city hall. This a great opportunity to explore High Springs. Bring blankets, lawn chairs, refreshments! 352-275-4190.

ATTRACT BIRDS TO YOUR YARD Tuesday, December 18 2:30pm - 4:00pm GAINESVILLE - Senior Recreation Center, 5701 NW 34th St. Ron Robinson, a local bird expert, will feature photos about how to create a backyard habitat that appeals both to birds and humans. He will also show photos about the birds people may attract locally, as well as tips on how to control pesky squirrels and raccoons.

352-367-8169. eldercare.ufandshands.org.

“THE LITTLE MATCH GIRL” ACT II Wednesday, December 19 10:00am GAINESVILLE - Phillips Center, UF. Gainesville Ballet Theatre proudly presents Act II of “The Little Match Girl,” an original ballet choreographed by Joni Messler adapted from the Hans Christian Anderson fairy tale. In this act of the original story ballet, the Little Match Girl envisions dolls and stuffed animals from the toy store and sweets from the candy store as they come to life and dance just for her.

352-372-9898. gainesville-ballet-theatre.org.

PROLONGING INDEPENDENCE AND SAFE MOBILITY Thursday, December 20 2:30pm - 4:00pm GAINESVILLE - Senior Recreation Center, 5701 NW 34th St. The University of Florida,

Institute on Aging, provides a program of interest to Seniors each month. Alexander Crizzle, Ph.D., Associate Director of the Institute on Mobility, Activity and Participation, will discuss driving transition and how to prolong independence and safe mobility for seniors.

352-367-8169. eldercare.ufandshands.org.

ALIEN INVADERS Friday, December 21 10:00am - 5:00pm GAINESVILLE - Museum of Natural History, Hull Road and Southwest 34th Street. Aliens aren’t just from outer space! Learn about the invasive species living in the backyard!

352-846-2000. www.flmnh.ufl.edu.

PNINA BECHER Monday, December 31 2:00pm and 5:00pm GAINESVILLE - Squitieri Studio Theatre, UF. Experience the blending of fine wines, beautiful piano playing and elegant ambiance.

World-renowned pianist Pnina Becher pays musical tribute to famous composer Domenico Scarlatti, as the audience follows his journey through the wine countries of his life. Scarlatti’s sonatas are played in five parts and the wines selected for this performance are paired perfectly with each piece Becher will play.

352-392-ARTS. performingarts.ufl.edu.

Families

Live colorfully…

Call today to schedule your family portraits — on location or at our studio.

352-332-1484 lotusphotostudios.com December 2012

43 43

44

Gainsville Social Security Office has New Hours

Lock in 2012 rates and save $1,000's ©2012 HARVEST MANAGEMENT SUB LLC 17531

Life here is more fun!

Free Events for Seniors Call, RSVP & Visit Today!

Seniors, join Atrium at Gainesville for our free events!

Toys for Tots Dessert Extravaganza Saturday, December 8th at 2 PM Music, Dancing, Desserts & More for a Good Cause!

The Gainesville Social Security office will be open to the public Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. — a reduction of 30 minutes each weekday. In addition, beginning January 2, 2013, the office will be closed to the public at noon every Wednesday.

While agency employees will continue to work their regular hours, this shorter public window will allow them to complete faceto-face interviews and process claims work without incurring the cost of overtime. The significantly reduced funding provided by Congress under the continuing resolution for the first six months of the fiscal year makes it impossible for the agency to provide the overtime needed to handle service to the public as it has done in the past.

Most Social Security services do not require a visit to a local office. Many services, including applying for retirement, disability or Medicare benefits, signing up

Let's Talk Seniors- Free local services Wednesday, December 12th at 2 PM Presented David Lynn of Blind Services New Year's Eve Bash Monday, December 31st at 7 PM Entertainment by Mr. October with Refreshments

Atrium at Gainesville Independent Retirement Living

2431 NW 41st St, Gainesville, FL 32606 352-356-4072 | theatriumatgainesville.com

44

December 2012

for direct deposit, replacing a Medicare card, obtaining a proof of income letter or informing us of a change of address or telephone number are conveniently available at www.socialsecurity.gov or by dialing our toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213. People who are deaf or hard of hearing may call our TTY number, 1-800-325-0778. Many of our online services also are available in Spanish at www.segurosocial.gov. seniortimesmagazine.com

THEATRE Acrosstown Repertory Theatre.....................619 S. Main Street, Gainesville Curtis M. Phillips Center ........................................... 315 Hull Road, Gainesville Fine Arts Hall Theatre - SFC ........................... 3000 NW 83rd St., Gainesville Gainesville Community Playhouse ....... 4039 N.W. 16th Blvd., Gainesville Hippodrome State Theatre................................. 25 SE 2nd Place, Gainesville UF Constans Theatre ................................................. Museum Road, Gainesville Nadine McGuire Blackbox Theatre ................... Museum Road, Gainesville Insomniac Theatre Company ............................E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala Ocala Civic Theatre ..................................4337 East Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala High Springs Community Theater .......... 130 NE 1st Avenue, High Springs

352-371-1234 352-392-ARTS 352-395-4181 352-376-4949 352-375-4477 352-273-0526 352-392-1653 352-897-0477 352-236-2274 386-454-3525

ACROSSTOWN REPERTORY THEATRE

HIPPODROME STATE THEATRE

Come Back Little Sheba Through December 16

A Christmas Carol Through December 22

An eight-person drama featuring an alcoholic doctor and his wife, both of whom are fascinated with the sexuality of their young boarder and her boyfriends, and lament the lost days of their own youth, as symbolized by a lost dog.

A Gainesville tradition for the entire family.

Join Scrooge, Marley, the Cratchits and a host of Christmas ghosts for this holiday favorite. Dazzling special effects, an original adaptation and a timeless message of goodwill have made “A Christmas Carol” one of the most popular Hippodrome productions of all time.

GAINESVILLE COMMUNITY PLAYHOUSE

White Christmas Through December 23

A Tuna Christmas Through December 23

Two ex-GIs, now famous stage performers, Bob and Phil, decide to help their old commanding general save his struggling winter resort by mounting a musical revue.

This family musical is chock full of Irving Berlin songs, such as “Sisters,” “Snow,” “Count Your Blessings Instead of Sheep,” “I’ve Got My Love to Keep Me Warm,” “I Love a Piano,” “Let Yourself Go,” and of course the title song, “White Christmas.”

Those wacky characters from Tuna, Texas, have once again entered the heated Yuletide lawn display contest. Socialite Vera Carp hopes to win another consecutive victory, but she faces stiff competition from the crusty proprietor of Didi’s Used Weapons and from a pair of cowboy-loving Tastee Creme waitresses. Don’t miss tour-de-force performances for two actors in multiple roles!

DAMSELFLY FAMILY THEATRE COMPANY

The Snow Queen Dec. 8, 1:00pm; Dec. 9, 2:00pm “The Snow Queen” is one of Hans Christian Anderson’s most memorable holiday stories and this classic tale of Good triumphing over Evil comes to colorful life at Sholom Park, located at 6840 SW 80th Ave. in Ocala. “The Snow Queen” is free and open to the public.

HIGH SPRINGS COMMUNITY THEATER

Christmas Belles Through December 16 In this Southern farce by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope and Jamie Woolen, squabbling sisters, family secrets, a surly Santa, a vengeful sheep and a reluctant Elvis impersonator cause a church Christmas program to spins hilariously out of control.

Living the Gospel in Downtown Gainesville!

The Rev. Louanne Loch, Rector Dr. John T. Lowe, Dir. of Music

Sunday Services 8:00am 10:30am 6:00pm

Wednesday Service 12:15pm

100 NE 1st Street Downtown Gainesville (352) 372-4721 www.HolyTrinityGNV.org The Episcopal Church welcomes you ...and we do mean YOU!

December 2012

45 45

46

NATIONAL MARKETPLACE COMPILED ADS FROM FLORIDA PRESS SERVICE, CPF, NANI, SAPA, CADNET & AMERICAN CLASSIFIEDS Bring your certified artwork to be considered for Art Auction consignment. November 17 & 18. Noon to 5pm at Baterbys Art Gallery.

9101 International Drive, Ste. 1008,  Orlando, FL 32819. Call (866)537-1013 or visit www.Baterbys.com for more information.

Top Pay for Limited Experience! 34 cpm for 1 Mos OTR Exp Plus Benefits, New Equip & 401K (877)258-8782 www.addrivers.com Drivers - HIRING EXPERIENCED / INEXPERIENCED TANKER DRIVERS! Earn up to $.51/mile! New Fleet Volvo Tractors! 1 Year OTR Exp. Req. - Tanker Training Available. Call Today: (877)882-6537 www.OakleyTransport.com DRIVER TRAINEES NEEDED NOW! Learn to drive for Stevens Transport!

Earn $700 per week! No experience needed! Local CDL Training. Job ready in 15 days! (888)368-1964 AIRLINES ARE HIRING Train for hands on Aviation Maintenance Career. FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified - Housing available CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance (866)314-3769 NURSING CAREERS begin here – Train in months, not years. Financial aid if qualified. Housing available. Job Placement assistance. Call Centura Institute Orlando (877) 206-6559 AIRLINE CAREERS Become an Aviation Maintenance Tech. FAA approved training. Financial aid if qualified - Housing available. Job placement assistance. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance (866)314-3769 ATTEND COLLEGE ONLINE from Home. *Medical, *Business, *Criminal Justice, *Hospitality. Job placement assistance.

Computer available.

Financial Aid if qualified.

SCHEV authorized. Call www.CenturaOnline.com 888-203-3179 Earn up to $75000!! FT/PT. Training Available Pharmacy Discount Plans Call for Bonus1-877-308-7959 ext231

46

December 2012

SURROGATE MOMS NEEDED! Most generous compensation and benefits programs offered anywhere, starting at $25,000.

Healthy, non-smoking, 21-39, prior birth without complications, no criminal background. Confidential, compassionate services.

Reasonable expenses will be paid. OpenArmsConsultants.com MEDICAL CAREERS begin here ‚Äì Train ONLINE for Allied Health and Medical Management. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. SCHEV authorized. Call 888-203-3179 www.CenturaOnline.com Drivers - Class A Flatbed, HOME EVERY WEEKEND! Pay 37c/mi, Both ways, FULL BENEFITS, Requires 1 year OTR Flatbed experience. (800)572-5489 x227, SunBelt Transport, Jacksonville, FL TIRED OF LIVING PAYCHECK TO PAYCHECK? There’s great earning potential as a Professional Truck Driver! The average Professional Truck Driver earns over $700/wk*! 16Day CDL Training @ NFCC/ Roadmaster! Approved for Veterans Training. CALL TODAY! (866)467-0060 *DOL/BLS 2012 ABSOLUTE AUCTION 79+/- Bank Owned Assets in GA, NC, TN Nov. 27 @ 6pm, Lithia Springs, GA. Nov. 28 @ 6pm, Ellijay, GA. Online & Live Bidding. GAL AU-Co002594, NCAL8935, TN5733 RowellAuctions. com (800)323-8388

TOP CASH FOR CARS, Any Car/Truck, Running or Not. Call for INSTANT offer: 1-800-454-6951 Direct To Home Satellite TV $19.99/mo. Free Installation FREE HD/DVR Upgrade Credit/Debit Card Req. Call 1-800-795-3579 CREDIT REPAIR SPECIALIST Have a 720 score? You can! FREE CONSULTATION888-316-2786 ext102 www.raisemycreditasap. com HIRING: Workers Needed to Assemble Products at Home. No selling, $500 weekly potential.

Info.

1-985-646-1700 DEPT. CAD-4085 Surfing USA. Now hiring 10 spontaneous individuals.

Travel full time. Must be 18+. Transportation and hotel provided. Call Shawn 800-716-0048 AIRLINE CAREERS begin here - Become an Aviation Maintenance Tech. FAA approved training. Financial aid if qualified - Housing available. Job placement assistance.

Call AIM (866)453-6204 Meet singles right now! No paid operators, just real people like you. Browse greetings, exchange messages and connect live. Try it free. Call now 1-888-909-9905 CANADA DRUG CENTER. Safe and affordable medications. Save up to 90% on your medication needs. Call 1-888-734-1530 ($25.00 off your first prescription and free shipping.)

Foreclosed Mobile Home with land ready to move in.

Great value. Approx 1500 sq ft. 3 Br/ 2 Ba. Serious offers only. No renters. Call (850)308-6473

CASH FOR CARS, Any Make or Model! Free Towing. Sell it TODAY. Instant offer: 1-800-864-5784

PREGNANT? CONSIDERING ADOPTION? You choose from families nationwide. LIVING EXPENSES PAID. Abby’s One True Gift Adoptions. 866413-6292, 24/7 Void/Illinois

ATTEND COLLEGE ONLINE from Home. *Medical, *Business, *Criminal Justice, *Hospitality. Job placement assistance.

Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. SCHEV Authorized 800-494-3586 www.CenturaOnline.com

BLOWN HEADGASKET? Any vehicle repair yourself.

State of the art 2-Component chemical process.

Specializing in Cadillac Northstar Overheating.

100% guaranteed. 1-866780-9038 www.RXHP.com

20 Acres Free! Buy 40-get 60 acres. $0- Down, $168/ mo. Money Back Guarantee No Credit Checks! El Paso, Texas 1-800-8437537 www.sunsetranches. com

RST, an international advertising company specializing in promoting vacation property resale and rentals. www.rstsite. com 877-299-4778 Wants to purchase minerals and other oil and gas interests. Send details to P.O. Box 13557 Denver, Co. 80201 Yearbooks Up to $15 paid for high school yearbooks 1900-2012. www. yearbookusa.com or 214-514-1040 CA$H PAID- up to $26/ Box for unexpired, sealed DIABETIC TEST STRIPS. Hablamos Espanol.

1-800-371-1136

Give your baby a loving, financially secure family.

Living expenses paid. Call Attorney Charlotte Danciu 28 years experience.

1-800-395-5449 www. adoption-surrogacy.com FL Bar # 307084 GIVE YOUR BABY THE BEST IN LIFE! Many Kind, Loving, Educated & Financially Secure Couples Waiting. Living & Medical Expenses Paid. Counseling & Transportation Provided.

Former Birth Moms on Staff! FLORIDA ADOPTION LAW GROUP, P.A. Jodi Sue Rutstein, M.S.W., J.D. Mary Ann Scherer, R.N., J.D. 1-800-852-0041 Confidential 24/7 (#133050&249025)

DIABETIC TEST STRIPS Wanted Check us out Online! All Major Brands Bought Dtsbuyer.com 1-866-446-3009

ADOPTION 888-812-3678 All Expenses Paid. Choose a Loving, Financially Secure family for your child 24 Hrs 7 Days Caring & Confidential. Attorney Amy Hickman.

(FL Lic. #832340)

Abortion Not an Option?

Unplanned Pregnancy?

Adoption is a Wonderful Choice. Living Expenses Paid.

Secure, Loving, Families Await. Call 24/7 1-877-341-1309 Attorney Ellen Kaplan (FL #0875228)

CASH FOR CARS! We Buy ANY Car, Truck or Van! Running or Not. Get a FREE Top Dollar INSTANT Offer NOW! 1-800-558-1097 We’re Local!

RUN FIREWORKS TENT $$ EARN THOUSANDS $$ Call 813-234-2264 / 1-239-6931598 Hernando, Hillsborough, Lake, Lee, Orange, Pasco, Pinellas, Seminole, Sumter Counties only need to apply. Galaxy Fireworks!

GEORGIA LAND SALE! Great investment! Relax & enjoy country lifestyle!

Beautifully developed 1Acre-20Acre homesites.

Augusta Area. Beautiful weather. Low taxes/Low down.

Financing from $195/month. Call Owner 706-364-4200 HUTCHINSON ISLAND - LUXURY, LOCATION! 4400sf 4Br/3Ba, Gourmet kit. Master has stone jacuzzi.

Reduced to $635,000. Lease option or rent possible. Brokers welcome. 954-270-5242 NORTH FLORIDA LAND LIQUIDATION 80 ACRES Hunting $2800/acre. 40 ACRES Hunting w/owner financing $3625/acre. 5 Acres restricted $39,000.

Brochure/specifics: 1-800294-2313 x3073. 7 Days a week 7-7. A Bar Sales, Inc.

SURROGATE MOTHER NEEDED Please help us have our baby! Generous Compensation Paid. Call Attorney Charlotte Danciu 1-800-395-5449 FL Bar # 307084 VIAGRA/ CIALIS! Save $500.00! Get 40 100mg/20mg Pills, for only-$99! +4-Bonus Pills FREE! #1 Male Enhancement. Discreet Shipping.

Buy The Blue Pill Now 1- 888-800-1280 AT&T U-Verse for just $29/ mo! BUNDLE & SAVE with AT&T Internet+Phone+TV and get a FREE pre-paid Visa Card! (Select plans).

HURRY, CALL NOW! 800-327-5381 Bundle & Save on your Cable, Internet Phone, And More. High Speed Internet starting at less than $20/mo. Call Now! 800-364-0861 DIABETIC TEST STRIPS WANTED!!! Get the Most Cash, up to $27 per box!

Shipping Paid! Must be Sealed & Unexpired. Call Tony 813-528-1480 tonyteststrips@hotmail.com

DIRECTV Ultimate BUNDLE! TV plus Hi-Speed Internet plus Phone all for $29.99/month. LOCK in savings for 2 years on best packages! Call TODAY for details 1-888-686-0179 DISH Network. Starting at $19.99/month PLUS 30 Premium Movie Channels FREE for 3 Months!

SAVE! & Ask About SAME DAY Installation! CALL - 888-418-9787 Every baby deserves a healthy start. Join more than a million people walking and raising money to support the March of Dimes. The walk starts at marchforbabies.org. *REDUCE YOUR CABLE BILL!* Get a 4-Room AllDigital Satellite system installed for Free and programming starting at $19.99/mo. Free HD/DVR upgrade for new callers, Call Now. 1-800-795-7279 SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS. WIN or Pay Nothing! Start Your Application In Under 60 Seconds. Call Today!

Contact Disability Group, Inc. Licensed Attorneys & BBB Accredited. Call 888-903-1353 START WITH Rotary and good things happen!

Locate the nearest club at www.rotary.org. This message provided by PaperChain and your local community paper.

SWIM SPA LOADED! Brand New with Warranty, 3 Pumps, LED lighting, Ozone Deluxe Cover, maintenance free cabinet.

Retails for $18,900. Sacrifice $8995. Can deliver.

727-851-3217 * ADOPT * Athletic Professional Couple, Stay home Mom, Gracious Home in Horse Country awaits baby. Expenses Paid. FLBar42311 DAL SING ESQ 1-800-552-0045 *Larry & Mary* DIVORCE $50 - $240* Covers Child Support, Custody, and Visitation, Property, Debts, Name Change… Only One Signature Required! *Excludes govt. fees! 1-800-522-6000 Extn.

300 Baylor & Associates

seniortimesmagazine.com

CORRECTLY COMPLETE THE CROSSWORD PUZZLE AND MAIL IT TO US FOR YOUR CHANCE TO $

Win a 50 Gift Card you can use anywhere that accepts American Express!

One Prize awarded per month through random drawing of a correct and complete entry. Winners will be contacted by Tower Publications and should receive their prize within 30 days of being chosen. Please do not call or email to request winner information.

Submit completed entries to: Senior Times Mailbag 4400 N.W. 36th Avenue â&#x20AC;˘ Gainesville, Florida 32606

Name:

Phone:

Address:

City, State, Zip:

December 2012

47 47

48

READER ADVISORY: National Trade Associations we belong to have purchased the classifieds on these pages. Determining the value of their service or product is advised. In order to avoid misunderstandings, some advertisers do not offer employment but rather supply the readers with manuals, directories and other materials designed to help their clients establish mail order selling and other businesses at home. Under NO circumstance should you send any money in advance or give anyone your checking, license ID, or credit card numbers. Also beware of ads that claim to guarantee loans regardless of credit and note that if a credit repair company does business only over the phone it is illegal to request any money before delivering its service. Toll free numbers may or may not reach Canada.

PREGNANT? CONSIDERING ADOPTION? Talk with caring adoption expert.

You choose from families nationwide. LIVING EXPENSES PAID. Call 24/7 Abby’s One True Gift Adoptions. 866-413-6298.

FL License #100013125 ROOF REPAIRS ROOF OVERS Mobile Home Roof Specialist & Flat Roof. Free Insurance Inspections. Lic/ Ins CCC1327406. All Florida Weatherproofing & Construction. 1-877-572-1019 AIRLINES ARE HIRING – Train for hands on Aviation Maintenance Career. FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified – Housing available. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance 866-314-6283

AVIATION MAINTENANCE / AVIONICS NOW TRAINING PILOTS! Financial aid if qualified. Job placement assistance. Call National Aviation Academy! FAA Approved. Classes Starting Soon! 1-800-659-2080 NAA.edu MEDICAL CAREERS begin here. Train ONLINE for Allied Health and Medical Management. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. SCHEV authorized. Call 888-203-3179 www.CenturaOnline.com NURSING CAREERS begin here – Train in months, not years. Financial aid if qualified. Housing available. Job Placement assistance. Call Centura Institute Orlando (888)220-3178

48

December 2012

$$$ ACCESS LAWSUIT Cash Now!! Injury Lawsuit Dragging? Need $500$500,000++ within 48/ hours? Low rates Apply Now By Phone! 1-800-5688321. www.lawcapital.com LEATHER LIVING ROOM SET and SOLID WOOD BEDROOM SET New, never used, in original factory boxes, sacrifice Only $975 each. Can deliver. Call Tom 407-574-3067 NOW HIRING: Companies desperately need employees to assemble products at home. No selling, any hours. $500 weekly potential. Info. 1-985-646-1700 DEPT. FL-820 PART-TIME PERSONAL ASSISTANT Preparing papers for meetings, managing & reviewing filing & office systems, commissioning work on the principal’s behalf, errands, sourcing & ordering stationery & office equipment kevin.hardy@aol.com Top of the line RV park lot for rent, monthly or seasonal. Across from beach on Hwy A1A between Vero Beach and Fort Pierce.

Boat docks, tennis and heated pool overlooking the ocean. Call 352-347-4470 or Email: lwhy2@aol.com.

WESTERN CAROLINA REAL ESTATE Offering unbelievable deals on homes and land in the beautiful NC mountains. Call for free brochures, foreclosures, and area information.

800-924-2635 ATTENTION DIABETICS with Medicare. Get a Free Talking Meter and diabetic testing supplies at No Cost, plus Free home delivery!

Best of all, this meter eliminates painful finger pricking! Call 888-377-3536 CARS/TRUCKS WANTED! Top $$$$$ PAID! Running or Not, All Years, Makes, Models. Free Towing! We’re Local! 7 Days/Week. Call Toll Free: 1-888-416-2330

Canada Drug Center is your choice for safe and affordable medications.

Our licensed Canadian mail order pharmacy will provide you with savings of up to 90 percent on all your medication needs. Call Today 888372-6740 for $10.00 off your first prescription and free shipping. Prescriptions Dispensed from Canada are Dispensed by: Health One Pharmacy. License Number: 21791 FUENTE DE REJUVENECIMIENTO NATURAL 3 PRODUCTOS Collageno-Elastin Resveratrol Collageno Hydrolsate Tratamiento Para Un Mes . . . $99.00 Super Especial: AHORRE el 20% Tratamiento Oro Telefono: 1-888-785-9580 www. prolifevitamins.com CASH FOR CARS: All Cars/ Trucks Wanted. Running or Not! Top Dollar Paid. We Come To You! Any Make/ Model. Call For Instant Offer: 1-800-871-9638 PREGNANT? CONSIDERING ADOPTION? Talk with caring adoption expert.

You choose from families nationwide. LIVING EXPENSES PAID. Call 24/7 Abby’s One True Gift Adoptions 866-413-6296 Florida Agency #100021542 DONATE YOUR CAR to CHILDREN’S CANCER FUND of AMERICA and help end CHILDHOOD CANCER. Tax Deductible.

Next Day Towing. Receive Vacation Voucher. 7 Days 1-800-469-8593

VIAGRA 100MG and CIALIS 20mg! 40 Pills + 4 FREE for only $99. #1 Male Enhancement, Discreet Shipping.

Save $500! Buy The Blue Pill! Now 1-888-796-8870 Earn up to $75000!! Interviewing for FT/PT Positions Now. Training provided.

Pharmacy/Dental/Vision Discount Plans. Call Now for Special Bonus! 1-877308-7959 X-231 NOW ACCEPTING!!! - up to $1000 WEEKLY PAID IN ADVANCE!!! MAILING BROCHURES or TYPING ADS ONLINE for our company. FREE Supplies! Genuine Opportunity. PT/FT. No Experience Needed! www.

HelpMailingBrochures.com Dish network / Directv / Cable /High Speed Internet Starting @14.95/mo. Call now 1-866-418-4935. New Customers Only, 1st 100 Customers Receive $25.00 Visa Card! 1-866-418-4935 **OLD GUITARS WANTED! ** Gibson, Martin, Fender, Gretsch, Epiphone, Guild, Mosrite, Rickenbacker.

Prairie State, D’Angelico, Stromberg, and Gibson Mandolins/Banjos. 1920’s thru 1980’s. TOP CASH PAID! 1-800-401-0440 AIRLINE CAREERS begin here – Become an Aviation Maintenance Tech. FAA approved training. Financial aid if qualified – Housing available. Job placement assistance. Call AIM (888) 686-1704

Bundle & Save on your CABLE, INTERNET PHONE, AND MORE. High Speed Internet starting at less than $20/mo. CALL NOW! 800-291-4159

ATTEND COLLEGE ONLINE from Home. *Medical, *Business, *Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance. Computer available.

Call 800-510-0784 www.

CenturaOnline.com

$90 Laptops, $30 TV’s, $8.50 Smart Phones, $4.50 Jeans, $1 DVD’s. Brand Name Electronics, Apparel, Furniture, Toys, Cosmetics from over 200 leading liquidators. Visit CloseoutsOnline.com

CA$H PAID-UP TO $27/ BOX for unexpired, sealed DIABETIC TEST STRIPS! 1 DAY PAYMENT & PREPAID shipping. SE HABLA ESPANOL. Emma 1-888776-7771. www.Cash4DiabeticSupplies.com

CASH FOR CARS: All Cars/ Trucks Wanted. Running or Not! Top Dollar Paid. We Come To You! Any Make/ Model. Call For Instant Offer: 1-800-864-5960 MEDICAL CAREERS begin here – Online training for Allied Health and Medical Management. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. SCHEV certified.

Call 800-510-0784 www.

CenturaOnline.com Meet singles now! No paid operators, just people like you. Browse greetings, exchange messages, connect live. FREE trial. Call 1-877-737-9447 Music Lessons for All Ages!

Find a music teacher! TakeLessons offers affordable, safe, guaranteed music lessons with teachers in your area. Our prescreened teachers specialize in singing, guitar, piano, drums, violin and more. Call 1-888-706-0263!

VIAGRA 100MG and CIALIS 20mg! 40 Pills + 4 FREE for only $99. #1 Male Enhancement, Discreet Shipping.

Save $500! Buy The Blue Pill! Now 800-213-6202 WORK ON JET ENGINES – Train for hands on Aviation Maintenance Career. FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified – Job placement assistance. Call AIM (866) 854-6156.

Motorcycles Wanted CASH PAID Select watercraft, ATV, snowmobiles. FREE National Pickup-NO Hassle.

1-800-963-9216 www.

SellUsYourBike.com www.

USAPowerSportsMi.com Mon-Fri 9-7 (cst) ARE YOU PREGNANT? A married couple (in our 30’s) seeks to adopt.

Stay-at-home mom. Financial security. Expenses paid. Call Ann & Michael 1-800-505-8452 ADOPTION? PREGNANT? We can help you! Housing, Relocation, Financial & Medical Assistance available. You Choose Adoptive family. Forever Blessed Adoptions.

Call 24/7.

1-800-568-4594 (Void in IL, IN)

PREGNANT? CONSIDERING ADOPTION? Call Us First! Living Expenses, Housing, Medical and continued support afterwards. Choose Adoptive Family of Your Choice. Call 24/7. ADOPT CONNECT 1-866-743-9212.

A UNIQUE ADOPTIONS, LET US HELP! PERSONALIZED ADOPTION PLANS. FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE, HOUSING, RELOCATION AND MORE. GIVING THE GIFT OF LIFE? YOU DESERVE THE BEST. CALL US FIRST! 1-888-6378200. 24 hour HOTLINE. WANTED JAPANESE MOTORCYCLE KAWASAKI 1967-1980 Z1-900, KZ900, KZ1000, ZIR, KZ1000MKII, W1-650, H1-500, H2-750, S1-250, S2-350, S3-400 Suzuki GS400, GT380, CB750 CASH PAID. FREE NATIONAL PICKUP. 1-800772-1142, 1-310-721-0726 usa@classicrunners.com Diabetic Test Strips Wanted Check us out online! All Major Brands Bought Dtsbuyers.com 1-866-446-3009 TOP CASH FOR CARS, Call Now For An Instant Offer.

Top Dollar Paid, Any Car/ Truck, Any Condition. Running or Not. Free Pick-up/ Tow. 1-800-761-9396 TIRED OF Living Paycheck to Paycheck? Earn Serious Money in the Wireless Industry! Turnkey Franchise Opportunity Starting at $299.

1-888-426-3127 w w w. N WA 1 . G e n e r a l Mobile-Service.com SIMPLE SYSTEM FOR CREATING WEALTH! Feed Your Bank Account Weekly! Start Today! Please Visit:www.MyRetirementCASH.com Toll Free # 1-877-275-6748 My Computer Works: Computer problems?

Viruses, spyware, email, printer issues, bad internet connections - FIX IT NOW! Professional, U.S.-based technicians. $25 off service.

Call for immediate help.

1-888-582-8147 Need Your High School Diploma?

Finish from home fast for $399! Nationally Accredited. EZ Pay. Free Brochure. www. diplomaathome.com Call 1-877-661-0675 MOVIE EXTRAS Earn up to $300 per day. No experience required. All looks and ages. Call 1-877-744-4964

seniortimesmagazine.com

AVIATION CAREERS - TRAIN IN ADVANCE STRUCTURES AND BECOME CERTIFIED TO WORK ON AIRCRAFT. FINANCIAL AID FOR THOSE WHO QUALIFY. CALL AVIATION INSTITUTE OF MAINTENANCE 1-888-212-5856

Wrap

up

guaranteed,

Holiday

delivered–to-

the-door Omaha Steaks!

SAVE 68 percent PLUS 2 FREE GIFTS - 26 Gourmet Favorites

ONLY

$49.99.

ORDER Today 1- 888-6893245 use code 45102ALM or

DIRECTV * Limited Time offer! Get the 2012 NFL Sunday Ticket Included with Choice Package for $29.99/month (1yr)! Call 1-800-248-6173 today!

your

Shopping with 100 percent

www.OmahaSteaks.

com/hgc85 THE OCEAN Corp. 10840 Rockley

Road,

Houston,

Texas 77099. Train for a New Career. *Underwater Welder. Commercial Diver.

* REDUCE YOUR CABLE BILL! * Get a 4-Room All Digital Satellite system installed for FREE and programming starting at $19.99/mo. FREE HD/ DVR upgrade for new callers, SO CALL NOW. 1-800-725-1835.

Ever Consider a Reverse Mortgage? At least 62 years old? Stay in your home & increase cash flow!

Safe & Effective! Call Now for your FREE DVD! Call Now 888-418-0117.

*NDT/Weld Inspector. Job Placement

Assistance.

Financial for

Aid

those

available

who

qualify.

1-800-321-0298.

WANTS

TO

purchase

minerals and other oil & gas interests. Send details P.O. Box 13557, Denver, Co 80201 STANLEY LYND is home of $197 over invoice on all new models of cars, trucks, suvs, vans and crossovers, save dollars, largest selec-

EARN YOUR HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA at home in a few short weeks.

Work at your own pace.

First Coast Academy. Nationally accredited. Call for free brochure. 1-800-6581180, extension 82. www. fcahighschool.org * REDUCE YOUR CABLE BILL! * Get a 4-Room All Digital Satellite system installed for FREE and programming starting at $19.99/mo. FREE HD/ DVR upgrade for new callers, SO CALL NOW. 1-800-935-9195.

HELP

WANTED!!!

$1000

a

week

mailing

brochures

from

home!

Supplies!

Helping

FREE

Make

Home-Workers since 2001!

Genuine Opportunity! NO experience required. Start Immediately! www.Mailing-

$$$ ACCESS LAWSUIT Cash Now!! Injury Lawsuit Dragging? Need $500$500,000++ within 48/ hours? Low rates. Apply Now By Phone! 1-800-5688321. wwwlawcapital.com

FEELING OLDER? Men lose the abilityto produce testosterone as they age.

Call 888-414-0692 for a FREE trial of Progene- All Natural Testosterone Supplement.

Canada Drug Center is your choice for safe and affordable medications.

Our licensed Canadian mail order pharmacy will provide you with savings of up to 90 percent on all your medication needs. Call Today 877-644-3199 for $25.00 off your first prescription and free shipping.

Diabetes/Cholesterol/ Weight LossBergamonte, a Natural Product for Cholesterol, Blood Sugar and weight. Physician recommended, backed by Human Clinical Studies with amazing results. Call today and save $15 off your first bottle! 877-815-6293.

ATTENTION SLEEP APNEA SUFFERERS with Medicare. Get FREE CPAP Replacement Supplies at NO COST, plus FREE home delivery! Best of all, prevent red skin sores and bacterial infection! Call 888-470-8261.

Central.NET TRUCK DRIVERS WantedBest Pay and Home Time!

Apply Online Today over 750

Companies!

One

Application, Hundreds of Offers! www.HammerLaneJobs.com

ATTENTION DIABETICS with Medicare. Get a FREE Talking Meter and diabetic testing supplies at NO COST, plus FREE home delivery! Best of all, this meter eliminates painful finger pricking! Call 877-517-4633.

VIAGRA 100MG AND CIALIS 20MG! 40 pills + 4 FREE for only $99. #1 Male Enhancement, Discreet Shipping.

Save $500!

Buy The Blue Pill! Now 1-800-491-8751 MANTIS Deluxe Tiller. NEW! FastStart engine. Ships FREE.One-Year MoneyBack Guarantee when you buy DIRECT. Call for the DVD and FREE Good Soil book! 888-485-3923

LOCAL PHONE SERVICE with long distance starting @ $19.99/mo. Taxes not included. No contract or credit check. Service states may vary. Call today: 1-888-216-1037 Meet singles right now! No paid operators, just real people like you. Browse greetings, exchange messages and connect live. Try it free.

Call now 1-888-909-9978.

MEDICAL CAREERS begin here - Train ONLINE for Allied Health and Medical Management. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. SCHEV authorized. Call 1-877-206-7665 www.CenturaOnline.com AIRLINES ARE HIRING Train for hands on Aviation Maintenance Career. FAA approved program. Financial Aid if Qualified - Housing available. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance.

1-866-724-5403.

GEORGIA LAND SALE! Great investment! Relax & enjoy country lifestyle!

Beautifully developed 1 Acre - 20Acre homesites.

Augusta Area. Beautiful weather. Low taxes/Low down.

Financing from $195/month. Call Owner 1-706-364-4200.

tion of trucks in the area, Dodge,

Chrysler,

Jeep,

Dodge charger, dodge dart, ram 1500, ram 2500, ram 3500, crew cab, quad cab, regular cab, 4x4, dually, 4x2,

challenger,

chrysler

town & country, chrysler 200,

chrysler

300,

jeep

libery, jeep grand cherokee, 2 door, 4 door, convertible,

CASH for unexpired Diabetic Test Strips! Free Shipping, Friendly Service, BEST prices and 24 hour payment! Call Mandy at 1-855-578-7477 or visit www.TestStripSearch.com

vehicle incentives, dodge durango, dodge avenger, jeep grand cherokee laredo, military discount available, dodge nitro, diesel, jeep patriot, 0% available on select models. 877-775-8410. www.stanleylynd.com

DRIVERS: ALL Miles Paid (Loaded & Empty)! Home on the weekends! Running Class-A CDL Flatbed.

Lease to Own-No money down! Call: 866-823-0323 METAL ROOFING buy direct from manufacturer! 30 colors instock, residential, commercial, guaranteed quality service, quick response!

888-393-0335 www.gulfcoastsupply.com

OCEAN

CORPORA-

TION - DIVE INTO A NEW CAREER!

COMMERCIAL

DIVER,

UNDERWATER

CONSTRUCTION, WELD

NDT

INSPECTOR,

WEEKS

OF

FINANCIAL

30

TRAINING, AID

AVAIL-

ABLE FOR THOSE WHO QUALIFY,

JOB

PLACE-

MENT ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE,

10840

ROCKLEY

ROAD, HOUSTON, TEXAS Promotional prices start at $19.99 a month for DISH for 12 months. Call Today and ask about Next Day Installation. 1-800-413-3897.

DISH Network’s LOWEST All-Digital Price! As low as $24.99/mo w/FREE HD for life and limited time BONUS! 1-800-580-7972.

CDLJOBLINK LLC company paid and sponsored CDL Training and driving jobs in your area. 1-800-819-7236 www.CDLJoblink.com

77099, 800-321-0298, EDUCATION, EMPLOYMENT, WELDING, JOBS,

INSPECTION,

CAREER.

www.

oceancorp.com

December 2012

49 49

50

BOOK REVIEW BY

TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER

Proof of Heaven EBEN ALEXANDER, M.D. 208 pages, c.2012, Simon & Schuster $23.99 / $27.99 Canada

N

obody packs a suitcase like you do.

A weekend away? No problem. Cram everything you need in a tote and go.

A two-week cruise? Again, no problem. You can roll, fold, and stuff half-acloset in a carry-on and still have room for a book.

It’s a gift. You’re like a squirrel when

50

December 2012

it comes to packing, but there’s one trip you’ll have to make someday and you won’t have to pack a thing.

Yes, you’re going to die.

But what happens and what awaits us on our final journey? In “Proof of Heaven”

by Eben Alexander, M.D., you’ll read about one man’s weeklong experience, and the inspiring souvenirs he brought back.

It all started with a middle-of-the-night backache.

Neurosurgeon Eben Alexander awoke from the pain and headed for a warm bath, thinking it might help.

It didn’t, and neither did a backrub from his wife, Holley. The pain, in fact, intensified.

By mid-morning, Alexander was nearly unconscious.

Rushed to the hospital, he landed in the ICU, surrounded by baffled doctors who believed that he’d somehow acquired spontaneous E. coli meningitis.

His spinal fluid and the outer portion of his brain were filled with pus. There was no brain activity, and no precedent: the affliction was a 1-in-10-million rarity.

But something amazing was happening to Eban Alexander.

Alexander says his first notion was that he was surrounded by primordial jelly, aware but not aware, and he could

hear sounds. Working his way upwards and toward “dazzling darkness,” he was greeted by a beautiful woman who took him on a breathtaking journey on a butterfly wing. She told him three things: he was loved, he was valued, and there was nothing he could do wrong.

One week after Alexander’s coma began, doctors informed Holley that he had virtually no chance of recovery yet, literally, as they were walking to his room to stop treatment, he opened his eyes. Within months, fully recuperated, he started to cautiously talk about his journey, because what he saw, he says, opened his mind and his heart.

No doubt, “Proof of Heaven” is a thinking-person’s book.

Filled with serious science, medical information and awe-inspiring theology, author Eban Alexander, M.D. gives his readers a lot to chew on. But this memoir isn’t just that: Alexander also gives us an abundance of absorbing back-story, so we know why his spiritual journey was mindbogglingly significant and why he believes that it unfolded as it did.

What’s interesting is that Alexander was a skeptic once, and now he struggles to convince the skeptics.

The only bumps in the road here are that he wrestles with descriptions of his experience. He admits that mere words don’t do his visions justice, but he tries anyhow — which is magnificent at first, then just repetitious.

Even so, most of this book will stick with you for a long time after you close its back cover, making you seriously contemplate what you’ve read. Whether you’re a believer or an undecided scoffer, I think “Proof of Heaven” will pack a wallop. s Terri Schlichenmeyer has been reading since she was 3 years old and she never goes anywhere without a book. She lives with her two dogs and 11,000 books.

seniortimesmagazine.com

ADVE RTI S E M E N T

Beating the Holiday Blues CARETENDERS HELPS CLIENTS DETERMINE IS IT THE BLUES OR DEPRESSION?

E

veryone feels blue sometimes.

The holiday season affects people in a variety of ways.

For some it brings about hope and joy, for others it stirs up feelings of loneliness and despair. If you find yourself in the second category, try some of these tips and tricks to beat the holiday blues.

TIPS & TRICKS TO BEAT THE BLUES: Be Realistic – Don’t compare your situation to anyone else. Be kind to yourself and seek support when you need it.

Create New Traditions – Life is ever changing. Don’t hold on to the past so tightly that you can’t make your present enjoyable.

Help Others – You are never too young, too old, or too financially strapped to help others. A kind word, a genuine smile, or a helping hand can go a long way to change someone’s day – including your own!

Grieve – Remember with joy those who are no longer here to celebrate this holiday season with you. Allow yourself time to enjoy, remember, and heal.

Forgive – Offering forgiveness to others is a wonderful holiday gift. You will

more than likely find that the gift is one that also benefits you.

“I wondered if my family could manage all the care I needed after leaving the hospital.”

Love – Love everything! From the silly songs to the twinkling lights, find a way to love this holiday season…and most importantly love yourself!

For many seniors the ideas above will work. However, when the feelings of sadness and “the blues” don’t go away he or she may be clinically depressed. Identifying depression in older adults is not always easy. Many older Americans grew up in a time where depression was not understood as a biological illness. They may fear being labeled as “difficult” or “weak” when they cannot overcome these feelings.

Is your loved one having a hard time finding motivation to get dressed in the morning? Has his or her appetite diminished? Do they appear to have lost the will to live? Are the things that they once looked forward to no longer appealing? If so, Caretenders’ comprehensive behavioral health nursing program might be the answer.

Call today if you feel you or your loved one could benefit from help in managing the troubles listed here.

Remember, depression is a medical illness that will not simply go away, but it can be managed with the help of Caretenders’ senior advocacy team.

A Special Kind of Caring...

That’s The Caretenders Tradition A dedicated team of compassionate, highly skilled healthcare professionals who treat their patients like family is our hallmark.

• SKILLED NURSING • PHYSICAL THERAPY • OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY • CERTIFIED HOME HEALTH AID • CARDIAC CARE • DIABETIC CARE • ORTHOPEDIC REHAB • UROLOGY CARE • SPEECH THERAPY • OUTPATIENT RECOVERY

Committed To The Highest Quality Home Care Services.

SERVING ALACHUA COUNTY AND SURROUNDING AREAS

4923 NW 43rd Street, Suite A Gainesville, Florida 32606

352-379-6217 Call For More Information About How Caretenders Can Help You.

LIC# HHA299991306

51

52

North Florida Regional is Gainesville’s only Top Performer on Key Quality Measures At North Florida Regional, we are committed to quality and are recognized for that commitment by some of the most respected organizations in healthcare. For the second year in a row, The Joint Commission, the nation’s leading accreditor of healthcare organizations, recognizes North Florida Regional Medical Center for being among the nation’s best for heart attack, heart failure, pneumonia and surgical care. As our $62 million expansion moves forward, we are proud to be the only hospital in Gainesville to receive this recognition. www.NFRMC.com