December 2013

MEALS O N WHE EELLS | TI NSELTOWN TALK S: ROD SERLI NG | EVENT CALENDAR

Life by Design Meet two-time Emmy Award winner and resident designer at the Hipp — Marilyn A. Wall

DECEMBER 2013

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INSIDE

TO REMEMBER, TRACKING THE POLAR BEAR TO HEAL Survivors of Suicide Memorial Garden

An Adventure in Northern Canada

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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.

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December 2013

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CONTENTS DECEMBER 2013 • VOL. 13 ISSUE 12

ON THE COVER – Get to know designer Marilyn A. Wall. She’s “Hipp” and she works there too. A founding member of the Hippodrome Theatre, this creative artist brings her designs to life for each production at our local state theater.

PHOTO BY ERICKA WINTERROWD

columns

departments 10 14 40

Tapas Community Page Calendar of Events

45 49 50

Theatre Listings Crossword Puzzle Reading Corner

22

Embracing Life

by Donna Bonnell

24

Tinseltown Talks

by Nick Thomas

31

by Ellis Amburn

features 18

To Remember, To Heal Memorial Garden for Those Left Behind by Suicide

BY COURTNEY LINDWALL

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6

Marilyn A. Wall

32

Hands On Volunteers Make a Difference Daily

39

Healthy Edge

by Kendra Siler-Marsiglio

BY DARLA KINNEY SCOLES

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Tracking The Polar Bear

Life by Design

An Adventure in Northern Canada

BY ERICKA WINTERROWD

BY MARY W. BRIDGMAN

December 2013

Enjoying Act Three

WINNER! Congratulations to the winner from our NOVEMBER 2013 issue…

Roseclaire Galvin from Ocala, Florida

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Effective therapy, compassionate care, positive outcomes.

UF HEALTH SHANDS REHAB HOSPITAL We bring together a multidisciplinary team to provide individual treatment plans for each person in our care.

Our team approach helps rehab patients achieve better results faster. doctors who specialize in rehabilitative medicine • physical, occupational and recreational therapists • speech language pathologists • rehabilitation psychologists • case managers • dietitians • rehabilitation nurses Our team is dedicated to helping people improve the quality of their lives while dealing with the effects of trauma or disease.

For more information or to schedule a tour, call 352.265.8938 or visit UFHealth.org/rehab.

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FROM THE EDITOR œ ALBERT ISAAC Published monthly by Tower Publications, Inc.

www.seniortimesmagazine.com PUBLISHER

Charlie Delatorre charlie@towerpublications.com

Happy Holidays!

I can hardly believe that another year is coming to a close. Just yesterday I was 18 years old, embarking on my college journey. I was barely an adult, with my whole life spread out before me. Seems it took a long time to hit 30. But, boy, time has sure sped up since that landmark.

Watching the kids grow up is both exciting and scary. How is it possible that my daughter is pushing 30 and has children of her own? Yesterday she was a baby. As the song goes, where are you going my little one? “Turn around and you’re two, turn around and you’re four, turn around and you’re a young girl going out my door.”

They do grow up fast.

Now, Thanksgiving is behind us and Christmas is looming. We still have a youngster in the house (preteen) and I imagine Christmas will be a lot less rambunctious than in the past. However, the clock is ticking and I have yet to buy a single present. Fortunately, my wife has been shopping throughout the year so she’s got the family covered, but I’m going to have to get on the ball and soon.

Like today.

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December 2013

It’s also time to be thinking about which New Year’s Resolutions I’ll be making and breaking in 2014. I’ve been meaning to resolve not to procrastinate so much but can’t seem to get around to it.

I was also hoping to eat better and exercise more – resolutions I seem to make and break every single year.

But THIS time it will be different!

Or will it? Only time will tell. I am, after all, a creature of habit. And now I’ve had 50-plus years to develop my traits. Perhaps I should see a hypnotist.

Or therapist. Or hypnotherapist.

At any rate, speaking of the holidays, these are the days to be thinking about giving. Volunteering is one way to give.

To that end, we are kicking off the first in a series of stories about volunteering opportunities. In the coming months, writer Darla Scoles will venture out to “volunteer for a day” and report back to us about her experiences. Her first adventure: Meals on Wheels.

The holidays are among the hardest of times to deal with the loss of a loved one. Learn about the Survivors of Suicide Memorial Garden that opened in the Cofrin Nature Park to honor the memory of those who have been lost to suicide.

Lastly, even though we live in Florida, during this time of year I often think of “The Polar Express,” even though I have yet to see the movie (remember that procrastinator thing?). So, I thought it fitting to include a travel piece about Polar Bears. Cool, right?

Enjoy! s

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Albert Isaac editor@towerpublications.com Fax: 352-416-0175 ART DIRECTOR

Hank McAfee hank@towerpublications.com GRAPHIC DESIGN

Neil McKinney neil@towerpublications.com EDITORIAL INTERNS

Courtney Lindwall Natanya Spies ADVERTISING SALES

Melissa Morris melissa@towerpublications.com direct: 352-416-0212 For more advertising information including rates, coverage area, distribution and more – contact Melissa Morris 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. © 2013 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.

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STAFF œ CONTRIBUTORS

Thank you forr making ak a child ild d smile! ssmile Art of Affection Photography

JUNIOR LEAGUE OF GAINESVILLE

Junior League of Gainesville graciously thanks all sponsors and volunteers of the 23rd Annual Miracle on Main Street for brightening the holidays for children in our community.

OUR PARTNERS COLDWELL BANKER M. M. PARRISH REALTORS

clockwise from top left ERICKA WINTERROWD is a graduate student in multimedia journalism at the University of Florida, where she also received her BFA in theatre performance.

When she isn’t scribbling down her thoughts she enjoys gardening, collecting gnomes, and fawning over a Malti-Pom named Doodle. emwinter@ufl.edu

MARY W. BRIDGMAN is a retired lawyer who grew up in Alachua County. Her work has appeared in national, regional, and local publications. Mary, an active member of the Writers’ Alliance of Gainesville, is an alumna of the University of Florida. marybridgman@msn.com

Senior Times

The Salon @716

A Better Massage • Alachua County Public Works • Bailey’s Gym • Bella B Gifts Cabot Creamery • Chacon Diaz & Di Virgilio Wealth Management Dampier Septic • Dell Graham, P.A. • Embers Wood Grill Florida Museum of Natural History • Florida Skin Cancer & Dermatology Specialists Gallery of Hair Design • Genghis Grill • Santa John IFAS|Office of Conferences & Institutes • UF TREEO • Kara Winslow Make-up Artist M&S Bank • Sweat Life Fitness • Pampered Chef by Jen Hillan • Paramount Plaza Sports Authority • Party Lite by Kara Winslow • Danielle Osbrach • Storter Childs Residence Inn by Marriott Gainesville I-75 • Swamp Head Brewery • Scruggs & Carmichael, P.A. Sebastian Ferrero Foundation • The Gainesville Sun • UF Conference Department UF Vet School • University Athletic Association

DARLA KINNEY SCOLES remembers taking a high school journalism class and falling in love with the process. Oodles of years, one husband, three daughters and multitudinous stories later, she’s still in love with it all. That, and dark chocolate. darlakinneyscoles@gmail.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

BIKE DONORS Karen Pearson • Kristin Pickens • Taylor McGrath • Megan Jansen • Kelly Bradley Mandy Parrish • Jennifer Garrett • Allyson Zant • BRG Realty Ventures LLC • Cynthia Birk Gail Dispenza • Audley Harris • Hebah Fox • Colleen Crabbe • Jane McKinney Prentiss Ladkani • Cynthia Townsend • Tracy Stubbs • Olga Del Sol • Garrett Bell Charise Holcome • Lauretta Fogg • Danielle Gamble • Amanda Parrish • Carol Dungan Arin Sandora • Kelly Haager 8 Betty Riker • Annette McNally • Laura Gillman Elizabeth Harlan • Russell Bauer • Morgan & Adam Lee • Charlotte Mixon • Anita Smith Sherry Houston • Kenneth Tenney • Morgan Lampp • James Doxey Ilene Silverman • Casey Family

December 2013

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TAPAS œ DECEMBER

Myth: Busted Do gluten-free diets work for everybody?

DECK THE HALLS HERE ARE A FEW INTERESTING FACTOIDS ABOUT THE CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY 1. Norwegian scientists have hypothesized that Rudolph’s red nose is probably the result of a parasitic infection of his respiratory system.

2. The Germans made the first artificial Christmas trees out of dyed goose feathers.

3. Each year more than 3 billion Christmas cards are sent in the U.S. alone.

4. All the gifts in the Twelve Days of Christmas would equal 364 gifts.

5. The world’s largest Christmas stocking measured 106 feet and 9 inches long and 49 feet and 1 inch wide. It weighed as much as five reindeer and held almost 1,000 presents. It was made by the Children’s Society in London on December 14, 2007.

6. Christmas trees have been sold in the U.S. since 1850.

7. Christmas trees usually grow for about 15 years before they are sold.

— RANDOMHISTORY.COM

FIRST FLIGHT 1903 DEC 17

Near Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, Orville and Wilbur Wright make the first successful flight in history of a selfpropelled, heavier-than-air aircraft. Orville piloted the gasolinepowered, propeller-driven biplane, which stayed aloft for 12 seconds and covered 120 feet on its inaugural flight.

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December 2013

Gluten-free diets are becoming more popular, and people are convinced that foods such as gluten-free pizza, pasta and cookies are the answer to staying healthy and losing weight. But gluten is not harmful, and there are many misconceptions about the healthy approach to balancing gluten. According to huffingtonpost.com, for people who don’t have medical reasons or issues with digesting their food, gluten-free diets will not necessarily be beneficial.

Although maintaining a diet without gluten is necessary for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, for anyone with a normal digestive system cutting gluten will not lead to the anticipated weightloss results. Another misconception is that gluten is limited to bread, pasta and other wheatbased foods. However, according to Everyday Health, unexpected foods such as cheese, pickles and hot dogs — and even certain medications and cosmetics — can also contain gluten. More gluten-free food items are becoming available, but not all of them are low fat or carb-free.

Therefore, gluten-free diets do not work for everyone, and there are better options to look better and feel healthier.

seniortimesmagazine.com

Pearl Harbor Day:

ational Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, also known as Pearl Harbor day, honors the numerous Americans in service who lost their lives after the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor by the Japanese Navy in 1941. According to history.com, obscure facts about the tragedy include: 23 sets of brothers died aboard the U.S Arizona and out of the 37 pairs of trios of brothers, only one full set of brothers, Kenneth and Russell Warriner, survived. Also, the entire U.S. Navy Band Unit 22 was

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lost after the bombing, and the death of an entire band in action has never happened at any other time in American history. More than 70 years after the USS Arizona’s wreckage, up to 9 quarts of oil continue to leak into the harbor every day. Although its not a federal holiday, memorial services are held each year and activities such as wreath-laying ceremonies, speeches, luncheons and school activities continue to commemorate those affected by one of the most deadly attacks in American history.

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TAPAS œ DECEMBER

Steven Spielberg

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BORN DECEMBER 18, 1946

One of the most significant filmmakers in history, Steven Spielberg is an American film director, screenwriter and producer.

From science fiction and adventure to deeper Years Old themes such as the Holocaust, war and terrorism, his films have focused on many different genres in a span of four decades. He was born in Cincinnati, Ohio and grew up in a Jewish family, often suffering from acts of anti-Semitic bullying in high school. He attended but dropped out of California State University, Long Beach to pursue a career in the entertainment industry. His career and passion for filmmaking began when he was an unpaid intern for Universal Studios in the editing department, which is where he created his first short film, “Amblin’” in 1968.

Spielberg is also the co-founder of DreamWorks movie studio. His awardwinning and most popular work throughout his career includes “Schindler’s List,” “Saving Private Ryan,” “Jaws,” “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” and “Jurassic Park.” His reputation as a legendary filmmaker has made him Hollywood’s best-known director — not to mention, one of the world’s wealthiest.

A FEW OTHER NOTABLE

Birthdays this Month Jimmy Buffet

Diane Sawyer

December 25, 1946 (67)

December 22, 1945 (68)

Jeff Bridges

Steve Garvey

December 4, 1949 (64)

December 22, 1948 (65)

Samuel Jackson

Dick Van Dyke

December 21, 1948 (65)

December 13, 1925 (88)

“We’re not meant to be perfect.

It took me a long time to learn that.” — JANE FONDA Lady Jayne Seymour Fonda, better known as Jane Fonda, is not only an American actress, but also a writer, political activist and former model. She was born in New York City in 1937 and first became famous in the 1960s after staring in films such as “Barbarella” and “Cat Ballou.” She won numerous awards and nominations throughout her 50 years as an actress, including two Academy Awards, an Emmy Years Old Award and three Golden Globes. Fifteen years after she retired, she returned to film in 2005 with “Monster-in-Law” and “Georgia Rule” in 2007.

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COMMUNITY œ GAINESVILLE COMMUNITY BAND

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!

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December 2013

The Band Plays On Back in 1974, the Gainesville Community Band got its start with 11 members. Since then the group has grown to its current size of about 80 musicians.

Everyone associated with the band — from the conductor to the musicians to everyone behind the scenes — works on a volunteer basis. Membership is a diverse cross-section of Gainesville and includes doctors, realtors, retirees, students, tradespersons and more.

“That’s maybe what I enjoy the most,” Poe said. “In my past life I’ve dealt with college kids, parents and fellow professors who are centered towards music. But here I’m talking to someone in a different profession completely, and we have the bond of music in common.”

Poe has led the GCB since 2003.

A music teacher and band director who retired after a 38-year career in education, he has continued the group’s evolution by upgrading venues and

music selections while keeping concerts free of charge and family friendly.

“A community band represents the community they’re in,” Poe said. “When I took over, the band was playing a lot in the parks, but that has changed. People with air conditioning don’t go to the parks and watch a concert like they once did. Now we do all of our concerts inside except Fanfares and Fireworks, which always has a good turnout.” s

UPCOMING PERFORMANCES December 15, at 2:00 pm Santa Fe Performing Arts Center will feature songs of the season “A Bright Christmas.”

February 23, 2014 at 2:00 pm Santa Fe Performing Arts Center will feature an extraordinary musician - Bill Prince - from Jacksonville. seniortimesmagazine.com

SunState Federal Credit Union has been serving its members for more than 55 years. Visit us today to see the difference it makes to do your banking at the place where Joe and Cathy work.

Meet Cathy Ratliff…

“I try to mirror what SunState Federal Credit Union strives to be – a place where people and service really matter. For over 27 years I have tried each day to do everything I can to make our members happy.”

CAT CA THY RA THY TH RATL TLIF TL IF FF SSF SS FCU El FCU Elec ectr ec t on tr onic ic Serv Se rvic rv icces Sup upe ervi viso vi sorr so

…and Joe Akins “When I see one of the big banks, I just see a building.

When I look at SunState Federal Credit Union, I see the people that make us unique.”

JO OE AK AKIN INS IN S SS SFC FCU Pr P essid dentt & CE EO

352-381-5200 • www.sunstatefcu.org December 2013

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CHARITY OF THE MONTH

Gentle Carousel Therapy Horses OCTOBER 2013 WINNER – 2,188 VOTES

He is just a few feet tall, but Magic the miniature horse can fill a room with joy.

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nown for his black coat, blue eyes and (of course) tiny size, Magic visits those who need him most.

He is the most famous on his team of 27 miniature horses — all therapy animals that visit hospitals, hospices, assisted living programs and disaster relief areas.

They are part of a larger organization, Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses, which has won $1,000 in the October SunState Federal Credit Union’s Charity of the Month contest with 2,188 votes on Facebook.

The registered nonprofit was founded and is run by Debbie Garcia-Bengochea and her husband Jorge. It began about a decade ago when the couple purchased their first two miniature horses for their North Florida ranch.

The horses would graze in a pasture in front of their bedbound neighbor’s window. With curiosity piqued, the neighbor one day asked them to bring the miniature horses closer so he could have a better look.

Immediately, the neighbor was thrilled.

He was so excited to see the tiny horses that he got out of bed to pet and play with them. It was then that Debbie and Jorge realized the emotional power these pint-sized animals could have.

Since then, the couple has bought and bred an entire team of horses and traveled the world bringing comfort and happiness wherever they go.

The team has found international success.

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December 2013

Magic was named one of Time Magazine’s 10 most heroic animals, and on the Reader’s Digest list of Hometown Heroes, Magic was the only animal that made the cut. The AARP also named Magic the most heroic pet in America.

The Carousel therapy horses are now Breyer Model horses, becoming a part of the classic toy legacy. And some of the horses are now working outside of Athens, Greece, in orphanages, hospitals, schools and programs for the elderly.

But even though it has found success worldwide, the North Florida organization remains involved at home.

Outside of visiting those in need, Gentle Carousel runs an award-winning literacy program called Reading is Magic. The miniature horses visit local libraries, schools and at-risk youth programs to bring stories to life and inspire young readers.

Whether visiting young children touched with illness or communities faced with disaster, Gentle Carousel’s miniature horses bring larger-than-life joy to everyone they meet. s Learn more at www.facebook.com/TherapyHorses.

TO NOMINATE A CHARITY OF YOUR CHOICE OR TO VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE NOMINEES, VISIT:

www.facebook.com/SunStateFCU and click on “Charity of the Month”.

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SunState Federal Credit Union has been serving its members for more than 55 years. Visit us today to see the difference it makes to do your banking at the place where Joe and Tannia work.

Meet Tannia Weaver…

“At SunState, we are a member er sservice ervice tteam. eam.

My primary responsibility is to o work work k directly with our employees to o ensure ensure they provide the highest levell off service to our members. Whatt we do really matters and I witnesss the results every day. That’s the he best part of my job here.”

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…and Joe Akins “When I see one off the big banks, I just see a building. g.

When I look at SunState Federal Credit Union, I see e the people that make us unique.”

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352-381-5200 • www.sunstatefcu.org December 2013

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THE UNEXPECTED

To Remember, To Heal Memorial Garden for Those Left Behind by Suicide

written by Courtney Lindwall photogrphy by Kristin Kozelsky

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ix.

It is the average number of people greatly affected by each suicide. They are the survivors. The mothers and fathers, husbands and wives. The friends and brothers, sisters and grandparents.

This number is now embodied at Cofrin Nature Park in the Survivors of Suicide Memorial Garden, which had its opening ceremony on Nov. 14. The garden is a project of Alachua County’s Friends of the Crisis Center.

Tucked into the trees, the memorial is a spot for reflection. It features a butterfly garden, a labyrinth for walking, benches, a trellis, and sculptures representing the six lives left behind.

Friends of the Crisis Center is a nonprofit partnered with the Alachua County Crisis Center, which provides a 24/7 suicide intervention phone hotline.

The Crisis Center works with a team of about 60 volunteers to answer tens of

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December 2013

thousands of calls a year.

Judy Broward, the memorial garden director, is a survivor herself. Her son committed suicide in 2003. He was 27.

Through a decade of mourning, re-

The idea for the garden began eight years ago.

Cofrin Nature Park, located at 4810 NW 8th Ave., was donated to the city by Gladys Cofrin, who had been involved

“We’ve had various groups come out to help. Girl Scouts, Master Gardeners, UF groups, VA groups, groups from a fraternity. It’s been amazing.” membering and healing, Broward became involved with the Crisis Center. She found resources and support, especially at the group meetings with other survivors.

Eventually, she was asked to take over the memorial garden project.

“For me, it’s been a labor of love,” Broward said. “It has been therapeutic to go out there and not only to be outside and work in the garden, but to feel like I’m working on something that is lasting — that will always be there for me and other survivors to go and to grieve and to heal.”

with the Crisis Center and stipulated that part of the land would be used as a memorial garden.

Friends of the Crisis Center requested design ideas from a landscape architecture class at UF. From the group, student Barbara Denaham’s design was selected.

“I just loved the whole plan,” Broward said, whose favorite part was the “labyrinth” inspired by the one at the Chartres Cathedral in France.

The memorial garden’s labyrinth is 30 feet across, and the winding pathway inseniortimesmagazine.com

Survivors, volunteers and project directors come together for the Survivors of Suicide Memorial Garden dedication on Nov. 14 at Cofrin Nature Park. A project of Friends of the Crisis Center, the garden features sculptures by artist Greg Johnson (bottom left) that symbolize suicide’s survivors. The garden also features a walking “labyrinth” with personalized bricks dedicated to lost loved ones. Eight years in the making, the garden now offers a space to mourn, heal and remember.

side spans nearly a quarter-mile. Bricks with dedications to lost loved ones line the final path.

UF student Denaham worked with a second professional landscape architect, John Adams, to finalize the garden’s design.

In their vision, a visit to the memorial garden would replicate the differ-

ent stages of grief. For Wendy Brant, president of Friends of the Crisis Center, the idea of the garden as an experience is one of its most beautiful aspects.

“The first thing you happen upon is the trellis area. It is meant as a meeting area. When you first lose someone, you’re surrounded by people and you need people to help you get through,”

Brant said. “As you progress through the garden, it leads you to the labyrinth where you’re beginning to contemplate and reflect and meditate. It’s much more introspective.”

The sculptures, which depict the survivors surrounding their lost loved one, offer an area for remembrance. It then leads out to the oldest bench by December 2013

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Friends of the Crisis Center, a local nonprofit, has worked with community volunteers and supporters to make the memorial garden a reality. The organization supports The Alachua County Crisis Center, a 24/7 hotline for crisis and suicide intervention. Many involved with the project are survivors themselves.

the creek side where visitors can hear children playing at the playground.

“It reminds you that there is other life,” Brant said.

Through a slow process of permits and approvals, the garden truly began to come alive two years ago.

“It really has become a community garden,” Broward said. “We’ve had various groups come out to help. Girl Scouts, Master Gardeners, UF groups, VA groups, groups from a fraternity. It’s been amazing.”

One of the biggest contributions to the project has come from Gainesville artist Greg Johnson, who designed the garden’s sculptures.

Broward first approached Johnson about creating artwork for the memorial in April of 2013.

She discussed with Johnson the idea of suicide’s six survivors.

Although every case differs, Broward had read a study that, on average, each suicide will deeply affect six lives, she said.

Johnson’s concept of the seven basalt columns was born – six survivors and the lost loved one.

Basalt is a stone formed through the cooling of lava near the surface of the Earth. Johnson felt the medium was perfect — a stone made strong through time and made up of memories.

Johnson wanted the sculptures to be lifesize, to represent the individuals left behind after suicide.

There would be six columns formed in a circle. A group of three columns represents the immediate family the individual left behind — with one of the three stones shorter than the others to represent a younger sibling. A group of two columns represents close friends.

20

December 2013

seniortimesmagazine.com

PHOTO BY COURTNEY LINDWALL

And a sixth column stands alone, representing a now-solitary life partner.

The seventh basalt column lies broken in the center of the circle. It is the lost life.

The sculptures were intentionally abstract. Johnson said he did not want his interpretation of grief to be too speciďŹ c â&#x20AC;&#x201D; he wanted everybody to relate to the artwork.

He did not want to overwrite their experiences, he said.

For Johnson, connecting with this project also â&#x20AC;&#x153;expanded his sense of sensitivity to othersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; loss and grief,â&#x20AC;? he said.

It has also expanded his view of himself as an artist. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a very interesting place to be as an artist,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re so interested in making pretty things, but this is a much more transformative process for me. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m moving people in more than just an aesthetic way. I have given them mechanisms to deal with their own loss.â&#x20AC;?

Wendy Brant, who has been a volunteer with the Crisis Center in some capacity since 1987, said she hopes that the garden will also bring attention to the available resources for survivors suffering loss.

The Crisis Center not only offers a 24/7 hotline, but also has support groups and consults with groups on crisis intervention. The garden will also continue to be the location of events for survivors, such as the Survivors of Suicide Day Candlelight Vigil on Nov. 23.

Although the memorial is focused primarily on suicide, Brant emphasized that the garden is for anyone who has been touched by loss.

Grief is universal. Grief is consistent, Brant said.

But the important thing is â&#x20AC;&#x201D; healing is universal, as well. s For more information about the garden, visit www.friendsofthecrisiscenter.org.

If you are experiencing a crisis or just need to talk, please call the Alachua County Crisis Center at 352-264-6789 or the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).

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COLUMN œ DONNA BONNELL

Embracing Life Embrace Life – From the Inside Out

J

ohann Wolfgang von Goethe, a great German literary figure (born in 1749), said, “Things which matter most should never be at the mercy of things which matter least.”

Goethe’s quote has been around for centuries. Yet it remains a timeless reminder, especially during the holidays.

In fact, his advice may be more applicable nowadays.

to consume our essence? Do we merely exist in a state of false self-worth, driven by the materialist outer world?

Zhuangzi, the 4th Century BCE Chinese philosopher, expressed it well: “When he tries to extend his power over objects, Those objects gain control over him.

He who is controlled by objects Loses possession of his inner self.”

This Christmas consider scaling back on giving trivial trinkets and invest your valuable time with family and friends.

Goals in today’s global society can be summarized in a simple equation: The ability to purchase personal possessions + pretentious presents + investment portfolios = success. Owning state-ofthe-art cell phones to send misspelled, generic, emotionless text messages has become more important than spending time with loved-ones. Time means money. The more money we have, the more we can buy. The more we attain, the more affluent we feel. Like Ebenezer Scrooge, in Charles Dickens’s 1843 novel, “A Christmas Carol,” I say “Bah, humbug!”

Where have we gone wrong? Could it be that we have been socially conditioned to adapt to the stressful conditions of life? Has reaping the monetary rewards for completing our daily drudgery become the accepted social norm?

Have we allowed our gluttonous egos

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December 2013

Zhuangzi was (and still is) correct!

Objects are not trophies proving our triumphs. In fact, in most cases, they inhibit the development of our inner self.

Inner life is our authentic being – our conscious. It is where our love, empathy, creativity and earthbound purposes reside. Many of us need a bucket of cold ice water doused on our psyche to re-awaken those important inner qualities. How do we begin to accept that challenge?

Regular readers know I had to search for solutions. My insight came from Nido Qubein, author of “Seven Choices for Success and Significance.”

He advocates that success is secular and significance is spiritual. Qubein says, “It doesn’t matter how you define your own spirituality. Spiritual matters are always finer, deeper, and longer lasting than secular matters.”

Qubein’s book provided the kick-start

I needed to solve this puzzling dilemma.

Fans, fame and fortune are the spotlights of success. Significance, however, focuses on faith, family, friends and our reason for existence. Success is not bad, it is not an accident, nor is it a reward for virtue. Most importantly, to merely succeed financially is not significant.

Success becomes significant when used to affect the world positively. In order to accomplish whatever our divine mission might be we need to live life from the inside out. We begin by defining our innermost desires, motives and values. Adding our unique personalities and strengths to the magical mix, empowers us to move mountains for humanity.

At the same time, we are responsible for choosing our own emotions. It is difficult not to blame others for feeling anger. Harboring resentment is easy, but optional.

Constant change and impermanence are a part of reality. Inner peace builds resiliency to bear the daunting difficulties and provides calmness to face the frenetic outer life.

Ultimately, it means realizing whatever we want to experience starts within and then shows up in our external world.

The challenge is continual. There are times when I achieved significant success and others when I gravely failed.

Living life from the inside out allows forgiveness for temporarily forgetting our purpose. We are only human.

This Christmas consider scaling back on giving trivial trinkets and invest your valuable time with family and friends.

It will spur your soul to redirect energy on important issues beyond the festive season. Your gift to others will be planting seeds of joy and hope. Collectively, we can make 2014 the year to embrace life from the inside out. 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. dbnewberry@aol.com

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Tinseltown Talks The Real Rod Serling

by Nick Thomas

I

t’s been called one of the most influential programs in the history of television drama. “The Twilight Zone,” an anthology series that aired in the early 1960s, was created by Rod Serling (1924-1975), a veteran of radio and World War II. Both influenced his career as a writer.

“When he returned from war in the Philippines, he went to college and wrote for the campus radio station,” daughter Anne Serling recently recalled to me. “He later wrote plays for commercial radio, then television. He said writing was a way to get the war trauma ‘out of his gut.’”

During the show’s five year run, Serling was executive producer and chief writer, penning more than half of the some-150 episodes. But he is best remembered as the program’s stone-faced host, whose foreboding narrations introduced the show each week. In biographies after his death, the master storyteller of chilling sci-fi and fantasy tales was often described as dark and depressed, inaccuracies that led Anne “to set the record straight” in her own book about her father.

“He was described as a tortured soul, but that wasn’t my father at all,” said Anne, who published “As I Knew Him: My Dad, Rod Serling” in 2013. “Although the war left scars, he was also a very positive, fun, down-to-earth person. My friends adored him and any apprehension they had about meeting him would instantly dissolve because he could make anyone feel at ease.

He was brilliantly funny at home, a great practical joker, and was always at the dinner table each night.”

As a child, Anne had little knowledge of her father’s career.

“I knew he was a writer, but didn’t know what he wrote about until I was about 7. Some mean boy on the school playground asked if I was ‘something out of the Twilight Zone,’ but I had no idea what that meant because I wasn’t allowed

24

December 2013

to watch much TV during the week — my mother’s rule! A few years later, we watched ‘Nightmare at 20,000 Feet’ together, the episode where William Shatner sees a gremlin on an airplane wing. I remember looking at my father and thinking ‘this is what you write?’ It was a bit scary.”

Praised for his original fiction writing, Serling was also highly respected for raising social issues in some episodes although controversial topics were subject to the censors’ whim. So he frequently concealed his intent in fantasy.

“He famously once said he could have aliens say things that Democrats and Republicans couldn’t,” Anne recalled.

Several Twilight Zone actors also shared vivid memories of Serling. seniortimesmagazine.com

Theodore Bikel is well-known to fans of “My Fair Lady” as Henry Higgins’ rival linguist, the nosey Zoltan Karpathy. In July, 1960, Austrian born Bikel appeared on a Hollywood TV talk show, “Caucus with Backus,” and was verbally assailed by fellow guests — glamorous silent film actress Corinne Griffith and beloved character actor Adolphe Menjou.

“We were talking politics and they said I had no right to open my mouth because I wasn’t born in this country,” recalled Bikel. Appalled, Serling appeared on a later program defending Bikel’s right to freedom of speech.

“I will never forget how Rod came to my defense. I later appeared in the Twilight Zone episode ‘Four O’Clock,’ in 1962.”

Ann Jillian and Mariette Hartley were teenagers when they first met Serling.

“I was 13 when I starred in the episode, ‘Mute,’” Ann recalled. “I was very excited about doing the popular show. Mr. Serling made me feel at ease and didn’t talk down to me.”

And after seeing him on TV, a gutsy 14-year old Mariette Hartley telephoned Serling and asked him to speak to her Connecticut high school drama club.

“He said he would be delighted and I can still see him sitting in the teacher’s desk at the front of the classroom talking to us,” Mariette said.

“Years later, when I started working in Hollywood, I met him again when his limousine pulled up as I was walking out the studio. He remembered coming to my class. I told him I was looking for work and within a couple of months he gave me the wonderful gift of working in ‘The Long Morrow’ episode.”

Today, Serling continues to inspire other moviemakers. J.J. Abrams, director of the new Star Trek films, has called “The Twilight Zone” a big influence on his career and reportedly has secured the rights to adapt Serling’s last, never-produced script, “The Stops Along the Way.” Until then, Rod Serling’s work is still available for your viewing pleasure, almost nightly, on classic TV cable channels… in The Twilight Zone. s Nick Thomas has written features and columns for more than 350 magazines and newspapers. He can be reached at his blog: http://getnickt.blogspot.com

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CHARACTER STUDY

Life by Design Marilyn A. Wall

story and photography by ericka winterrowd

M

arilyn A. Wall was born with a little bit of magic, it seems. Inside her costume shop on the third floor of the Hippodrome Theatre, ornate masks, giant dragonheads, and a monster tail made out of a dryer hose are just some of the things that adorn her walls. Layers upon layers of fabric are stacked on the back wall, creating a color palette that any artist would recognize. Through laughter and joyful tears, she recollects the stories that make up the play of her life.

A two-time Emmy Award winner and resident designer at the Hippodrome

had a dog and a horse and I trained them to have a little circus. I made them little costumes and I taught my dog how to ride my horse.”

Her parents could sense at an early age that their daughter was drawn to the arts.

“Wherever I was, I’d draw what I saw.

I’d draw palm trees in Cuba and oceans in Trinidad,” she said.

After spending her sophomore year in Trinidad, her family moved to Memphis where she finished high school and applied to the University of Florida. She would eventually graduate from UF with degrees in art, theater and journalism.

“I think what was so great is that I had the chance to fail that kids don’t often get these days.”

Theatre for the past 40 years, it is safe to say Wall knows how to tailor a man’s suit. But that was not always the case for this Iowa native. The daughter of a Navy Commander pilot, the progression of her craft spans many states and countries.

“I moved every two years,” Wall said.

“I didn’t have those kinds of friendships like lifetime friends have, but I always

26

December 2013

The friendships she made during this time became the deep connections she had always longed for and would eventually bring the founding members of the Hippodrome together for the first time.

“We had always been the edgy little group who did wild things we weren’t supposed to do. One time we climbed up to the top of the roof of the Constans seniortimesmagazine.com

Along with the costumes, Marilyn Wall designs the accessories that accompany each character in productions at the Hippodrome. Inception of the character begins with her artistic sketches. She then brings her drawings to life by painting in her lines while wearing her favorite painting dress. She poses the question, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Why wear jeans and an old shirt when I can be creative and glamorous at the same time? It doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t matter if I need to dab my paint brush on it either, it only makes it better.â&#x20AC;?

December 2013

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PHOTOS BY ERICKA WINTERROWD A designer’s hands produce living art, which transforms an actor into the character. From page to stage, Marilyn Wall’s unique ability to dazzle the eye sets her apart. Her artistic talents and hard work have won her praise and recognition from her peers, even resulting in two Emmy Awards.

Theatre and put a big sign up, because we were doing these one-acts called Six Quickies. And uh, we got in trouble for that,” she said with a chuckle.

She remembers getting the call from founding member Greg von Hausch who told her he was starting a theater and wanted her to join him.

“There was a total of six of us, and we met around this little table while we were trying to come up with what we were going to name it. The Purple Onion, the Lost Hour, and then a friend of ours came up with Hogtown Hippodrome.

We later shortened it to Hippodrome.”

The group of young renegades rented a vacant 7-Eleven where they performed plays for the community in the early ‘70s.

“We made our lights out of coffee

28

December 2013

cans sprayed black with light bulbs in them, and I ended up designing a lot of the sets and the costumes,” she said. “I didn’t really know how to sew, so I would just glue them together. We couldn’t wash them because they would have fallen apart, so by the end of the run they would be a little pungent, shall I say.”

In need of a better way to put the costumes together, Wall taught herself to sew at age 22. It was not until she was older that she realized the importance of learning that new skill. “ I think what was so great is that I had the chance to fail that kids don’t often get these days,” she said. “I’d try something, maybe it was great and maybe it wasn’t. I’d just pick my stuff up and dust myself off, and go on to the next show.”

After getting married and having two of her three children right away, Wall took a much-needed hiatus from working in the theater until her children were in nursery school. When the stage summoned her again, she fully dedi-

cated herself to designing at the Hippodrome. She still managed to find an audience to entertain with her comedic talents though.

“I always loved making people laugh.

I think I’m a pretty funny person, kind of goofy. My kids love that. They never think it’s odd if I show up with a rubber rat tied to my head,” she said.

A veteran of not only the stage but film and television design as well, Wall’s credits include working with movie stars such as Ed Harris and Blair Brown in the film “Flash of Green,” as well as working in the White House for HGTV’s White House Christmas Special. In addition, Wall won two Emmy Awards when designing makeup and wardrobe for the actors and puppets of the children’s television show “Salsa,” produced

by Georgia Public Broadcasting.

“Experiences like that are talent, luck and a little bit of a crapshoot when they fall in your lap,” she said. “I feel like I’ve had a really blessed career. I’ve had some amazing opportunities that were just gifts from the higher worlds.”

It seems that her ability to collaborate is what makes her a true artist and follows along with her one rule when Hollywood comes calling: “I won’t do wardrobe if you’re so famous that I can’t meet you.”

She said what she loves most about being a costume designer is being able to talk to the actor about their character. Wall likes to keep things real.

Her humility is apparent in every word she speaks.

After she reads the play she meets with actors and asks them to give her seniortimesmagazine.com

some adjectives that they would use to describe their character. She takes great pride in being able to adjust the costume for the actor no matter what.

“I’ve had to rebuild costumes many times to fit the needs of the actor, and I never mind doing it because actors just give us so much. The older the actor gets, the more I just want to worship at their feet because their gift of storytelling is just so important. I’m always so honored to be a part of it,” she said.

Nell Page, an actor at the Hippodrome since 1974, recounts the

first time she met Wall.

“She was so enthusiastic and so beautiful,” Page said. “She even had embroidery on her clothes, jeans and purse.

Everything about her had so much love and so much sparkle and creativity that people were in awe of her. We still are.”

What is her favorite show out of the 40 years at the Hipp as costume designer?

“A Christmas Carol is my favorite show,” she said with a tear in her eye.

“I love the redemption in the story, and I just love when the little kids come up here to the costume shop for their fitDecember 2013

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tings. They’ll be on their cell phones and iPads at age 12 and I get to take them back to a different time, a simpler time.”

A Christmas Carol is a Gainesville favorite during the holiday season and this year the show is in its 37th consecutive year. Even after all these years, it is apparent that this spirited Senior never tires of bringing the classic tale to life each year.

“The Hippodrome is a place you just cannot forget — you feel that in every show you’re involved with here, especially A Christmas Carol,” she said. “I think it’s because of the collaboration and the good feelings and support you get in the storytelling. There is something special about this theater. It’s one of a kind, and I was just lucky enough to get swept up in the dream.”

Lauren Caldwell is the artistic director at the Hippodrome and has known Wall since the ‘80s.

“Marilyn is sincere,” Caldwell said.

“She is a person that roots for the underdog. She is beyond hysterical, brave, warm, and will give you her last dime out of the bank. I mean, I just can’t think of anything that Marilyn wouldn’t do for someone and she’s genuine in that too.

She’s a gem.”

Now, as a grandmother of two granddaughters age 4 and 1, she said her favorite costumes are the ones she gets to make for them each Halloween. She asks the girls to draw out exactly what they want to be that holiday. She will then design the costumes exactly the way they appear from their drawings — a professional version, of course.

If she could give any advice that she has learned throughout the years it is to not be afraid to go to the edge in life, work, love and art.

“You might surprise yourself with what you can do,” she said. “Even now at 64 years young I still surprise myself.

How cool is that?” s

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December 2013

seniortimesmagazine.com

COLUMN œ ELLIS AMBURN

Enjoying Act Three Betty Hutton took me to her bedroom and invited me to stay for the night.

I

was speechless. The legendary star of “Annie Get Your Gun” and “The Greatest Show on Earth” was hitting on me, but as her editor I was interested only in getting the book for which I’d paid a mid-five-figure advance.

It had been a long, strange day. I’d flown from New York City to Providence, Rhode Island, accompanied

by Betty’s Hollywood agent Mike Hamilburg. She met us at the airport, a startling sight in platinum blond curls, bizarre for a woman in her 60s.

Mike took the back seat of her vintage Cadillac, and I sat in front, watching Betty drive like a pro, and noting her still shapely figure, clad in bright yellow slacks and a white blouse. Her lipstick gash red, she was determined to give the world the same blond bombshell they’d loved in such classic films as “The Greatest Show on Earth” and “Annie Get Your Gun.” Touching and eerie, she looked like something out of Madame Tussaud’s waxworks.

“This is what my life is all about today,” she said, stopping at a rectory where she cared for retired priests. In the kitchen she cooked breakfast for an unwed pregnant girl who’d appeared at the back door.

Betty then drove Mike and me to nearby Newport, where she resided in one of the posh resort’s stateliest mansions, newly converted into luxury condos.

“I’ve fixed you boys spaghetti and meatballs,” she said, disappearing into the kitchen, where she mysteriously remained throughout lunch.

Joining Mike and me at the table was her mentor, a priest who matter-of-factly related how Paramount Studios’ No. 1 box-office star had landed in his lap.

After years of being Paramount’s cash cow, she was fired for demanding the studio assign her husband to direct her latest film.

“We found her cowering under the house, took her in, gave her a room upstairs, and performed an exorcism.”

“I was full of demons,” Betty interjected, her familiar breathy voice emanating from the hand-through window between the kitchen and dining room.

“She was so strong she threw a chest of drawers down the stairs at us,” he said.

“Father brought me to God,” Betty added. “I don’t make a move without him.”

Later, when we were alone, I asked Betty what had ended her Hollywood career.

“Men,” she replied, explaining they’d been her problem from the start, when her discoverer, bandleader Vincent Lopez, sexually abused her. After years of being Paramount’s cash cow, she was

fired for demanding the studio assign her husband to direct her latest film.

“In the end I was desperate,” she told me. “I got involved with an 18-year-old African-American and said, ‘Just take care of me, and you can have everything I’ve got.’ He backed a truck up to the house, loaded it, and cut out.”

The next thing she remembered was coming to in Providence, somehow having traversed the North American continent in a nervous breakdown.

She put me up that night in the home of a friend who was out of town, thoughtfully placing bowls of Hershey Kisses throughout the house. Next morning, I was back at Betty’s for a breakfast that was weird but edible — a warm avocado holding a soft-boiled egg.

I inquired how she planned to get her book written.

“I thought you’d do it,” she said.

I tried to explain she needed a collaborator and that my job as her publisher required my presence in New York.

“But you’re the only one I trust,” she said.

I suggested she talk her story into a tape recorder, but she recoiled at the idea, fearful of recording devices.

When I said her rooms could be wired, she looked at me in alarm and said, “Microphones hidden in the draperies? What if someone gets hold of the tapes?”

“Well, you’ll be going public eventually…”

“I’ll ask Father.”

Fortunately an editor, who must gamble the publisher’s money to acquire desirable authors, is allowed a certain number of write-offs. My bestsellers by Shelley Winters and Priscilla Presley more than compensated for Olivia de Havilland, Yvonne de Carlo, and Betty Hutton, all of whom failed to deliver.

Only Olivia returned her advance. s Ellis Amburn, a HarperCollins author, is also a free-lance editor. He can be contacted at ellis.amburn@gmail.com.

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HANDS ON

Meals on Wheels Volunteers Make a Difference Daily

story and photography

by Darla Kinney Scoles

E

very year in the United States, millions of volunteers log billions of hours, worth billions of dollars to the communities in which they live. Every volunteer experience, however, is an individual interaction that impacts the singular life of the giver as much as it does the cumulative effort of all involved.

Finding the ideal volunteer-and-opportunity match is vital to maintaining a high level of volunteerism and a high sense of satisfaction among those who serve. It’s a delicate balance, but there are key factors involved in choosing a service experience that will help ensure success in both the happiness factor and impact quotient.

One person can make a difference.

Opportunities exist from working with monkeys to making daily phone calls to Hospice patients. It just takes finding the one right connection to make it happen and to keep it satisfying. Idealist.org has some helpful suggestions on how to choose the best-fitting volunteer experience: STEP ONE: Identify potential partner organizations

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The best way to start a search is to look at organizations that are already familiar — perhaps through donations made, work previously done in the community, or advertising seen in local media. Is there a group that has a good reputation in the area? Check them out. Also talk to friends, colleagues and family. Visit area volunteer centers and search online with sites such as www. serve.gov, www.volunteermatch.org or Volunteer Select at the United Way of North Central Florida’s website. Make a list of potential opportunities.

STEP TWO: Determine fit Create a chart from the list compiled in step one, with critical fit factors to consider for each organization or activity. Think about the activity or role involved, time commitment, support structure, issue or cause, and any other important personal considerations such as transportation, age, or location.

By checking off these key components for each experience on the list, it is easier to narrow the choices. To ultimately decide between several equally matched

volunteer roles, factor in less tangible points such as which will help in personal or professional goals, or which best utilizes unique skills or talents.

STEP THREE: Get to know the organization and opportunity At this point in the process, start checking out the organizations behind the volunteer opportunities identified.

Visit websites to find out more and then contact the volunteer coordinator to ask lingering questions, voice personal concerns and to learn about the process of signing on as a volunteer.

STEP FOUR: Make a decision It may be that all these previous steps helped whittle down the potentials list to one or two contenders. If not, take a look at the volunteer opportunities left standing and ask which sound most interesting, fun or challenging (or conversely, which might be boring or too difficult). If all things remain equal, put the choices in a hat and draw one at random!

The bottom line is to choose the volunteer opportunity that best fits one’s seniortimesmagazine.com

Dorothy Hayes (above left) and Susan Thiele often visit when Thiele delivers a meal to the 80-year-old Gainesville resident.

Meals on Wheels recipient, Rachel Nelson (bottom right), looks forward to greeting her volunteers. “Sometimes they have time to chat and I always enjoy that,” Nelson said.

interests, availability and goals. Saying no to a bad fit is good for both the volunteer and organization. Plus, the volunteer who thrives in their position is the best possible partner for an organization to have.

It may even take more than one try to find the right place. Not to worry. Volunteering is a choice. If one situation doesn’t work out, chances are the next one will.

All that is left to do now is to fill out the application, pick a date, send an email — whatever the process is to get started. >> Each month Darla Kinney Scoles participates firsthand in, and then shares with readers, a local volunteer experience opportunity. The needs are great. The rewards, even greater.

Meals on Wheels >> THE NEED: Each weekday except for Thursday, approximately 300 meals are served to Seniors in Alachua County via the Meals on Wheels program. Some are delivered to private residences; some are served at congregate meal sites. Every bite is critically needed to keep the county’s elderly population healthy — and happy.

Said 78-year-old meal recipient Nancy Virginia Bruce, “You never know in life what is going to happen as you age. Meals on Wheels has really helped me out, and I enjoy seeing my delivery people every day. They’ve been really good to me.

Delivering meals is a kind thing to do.”

Jeff Lee, Manager of Program Opera-

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Meal delivery is free and so are the smiles from 20-year-old Jake Thiele, who cheerfully spends two hours, once a week, running a Meals on Wheels route with his mother.

In addition to the meals delivered to homes, seven congregate meal sites serve up daily lunch as well. A variety of activities, such as arts and crafts and education programs, also take place at these sites, where recipients volunteer as servers.

tions at Elder Care of Alachua County, said it takes at least 50 volunteers to keep the vital program functioning each day. Often, though, there are not enough people to fill that need and Elder Care office staff end up delivering meals.

“We are always in need of more

out for each geographically dense route.

Food must be delivered between 10:30 – 2:30 daily and most helpers are asked to commit to one day each week.

A ride-along with volunteers Susan and Jake Thiele was an exercise in efficiency and love as the duo — with 2 1/2 years ex-

“I am only one, but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something. And because I cannot do everything, I will not refuse to do something I can do.”

— Helen Keller volunteers,” Lee said. “And the need will only rise as the elderly population increases. I think if people would try delivering meals just once, they would fall in love with it. You go out knowing you are going to impact lives.” >> THE WORK: Impacting those lives involves a vehicle, of course, and about two hours out of a day. Meals are sorted, packaged and ready for delivery drivers at the Alachua County Senior Recreation Center by 10:00 a.m., along with a detailed print-

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perience — breezed through their regular 10- to 15-stop route with ease and frequent expressions of gratitude from clients.

The route did take about two hours, with most stops a quick in-and-out experience and a few involving a bit of a visit with a cherished resident. A couple of deliveries required signatures, but most did not. The pair was always greeted with a kindness. >> THE REWARDS: “This is the one day of the week when I know where I am in the world,”

Susan said. “I don’t have any questions as to the value of my day. It’s also really relaxing for me to do this. I’m just driving a route and delivering cheer, away from a day’s usual busyness and any interruptions.”

Born with both Down Syndrome and Autism, Jake looks forward to Meals on Wheels day as well — but for different reasons. High-fives, hugs and the oftheard expression, “thank you,” create a “warm and amazing experience” for 20-year-old Jake, according to Susan.

“People with disabilities are always receiving services,” Susan said. “With this experience, he can see the other side of that now and know that he is giving. This is just a wonderful opportunity for both of us.” >> THE FIT: Lee said the Meals on Wheels volunteer roster includes individuals such as Susan and Jake, businesses that rotate employees to serve on a regular basis, and even a back-up pool of those who cannot commit to a certain day on a regular basis, but who call in on Monday and offer a day when they are free that seniortimesmagazine.com

particular week. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also a great ďŹ t for moms who would like to volunteer while their children are in school, and for retirees with free time,â&#x20AC;? said Lee. The on-site meals are served by several of the meal-recipients themselves, with an Elder Care staff member present to facilitate the operation.

Said Susan Thiele, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think this would be a great thing to do with a friend. It could be a day out together and that might make people more comfortable with volunteering.â&#x20AC;?

HOW TO GET INVOLVED: Meals on Wheels is a program of Elder Care of Alachua County. To volunteer visit www.ufhealth.org/volunteering, call 352-265-9040, or stop by the Alachua County Senior Recreation Center at 5701 N.W. 34th Blvd. to begin the volunteer application process.

Thanks to you! -Darla s

Annual Coat Drive Even though we still have a few more days on the calendar until it is ofďŹ cially winter the chilly nights are upon us. Here is your opportunity to make sure that nobody goes without such a basic necessity as a coat this winter.

Lazarus Restoration Ministries, Inc. is collecting new and clean gently used outerwear such as coats, jackets, sweatshirts and sweaters. Gloves, mittens, scarves, hats, sleeping bags, tents, blankets and non-perishable food items are also welcome. Especially needed are LARGE and EXTRA LARGE adult sized coats and jackets. With just the few days of colder weather weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had so far, our supply of winter wear is already depleted.

Items can be dropped off at Lazarus Restoration Ministries, Inc. on Mondays between 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. People are also welcome to browse the clothes closet or visit the pantry of nonperishable food items during the same time.

All donated coats will be distributed free of charge to local people in need.

In addition, people may call 352-3173928 for a special appointment during other days of the week if needed.

Drop off or pick up items at 3019 NE 20th Way, Gainesville. P.O. Box 5163, Gainesville, FL 32627.

"SF ZPV NJTTJOH PVU PO MJGF T TQFDJBM NPNFOUT Many local churches, theatres and meeting rooms now have an Audio â&#x20AC;&#x153;Loopâ&#x20AC;? System so their members can hear everything more clearly.

8F DBO HFU ZPV JO UIF iMPPQw XJUI UIF MBUFTU UFDIOPMPHZ PS BDUJWBUF UIF TFUUJOH JO YOUR EFWJDF $BMM "DDFOU ZPVS MPDBM IFBSJOH MPPQ FYQFSUT UPEBZ /FXCFSSZ 3E 4VJUF t (BJOFTWJMMF '- |

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GREAT WHITE NORTH

Tracking the Polar Bear An Adventure in Northern Canada

by Mary W. Bridgman

I

f you want to see a polar bear, some place besides a zoo that is, the closest option takes two days of travel, even by air. Churchill, Manitoba, hailed as the polar bear capital of the world, is best accessed by flying to the provincial capital of Winnipeg, an interesting destination itself. Most pilgrimages to Churchill begin there, where tour participants meet up with their groups, spend the night and catch the two-and-a-half hour flight north.

Polar bears come ashore in the area around Churchill during July, when ice covering the Hudson Bay melts. Unlike other bears, they experience a “walking hibernation” until late November, when the bay refreezes and they return to the ice to hunt ringed seals. During the months ashore, the bears usually do not eat, living off blubber they accumulate during the feeding season. As temperatures drop, polar bears head to the coast, where they test the ice until it is frozen solid. They begin to congregate in midOctober, leaving about a month later.

Churchill supports a booming tourist trade centered on the annual polar bear

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migration. Eighteen tundra buggies are licensed by the government to take visitors out to the bay to see the large creatures. The buggies are equipped with six-wheel drive and huge tires that creep over the rocky, frozen terrain. Accommodating up to 30 or more passengers, the buggies are spacious, equipped with an open-air viewing area in back. Visitors stay aboard all day, until the light begins to fade around 4:00 p.m. Lunch of soup and sandwich is served on board. Although the buggies do not have running water, they are equipped with restrooms.

The first day our group went out, we spotted two polar bears before we reached the tundra buggy. Bears sometimes walk into town, so caution is urged. If a bear becomes a nuisance, it is captured and placed in a holding facility located near the airport until it can be safely released.

Bigger than grizzly bears, mature male polar bears can reach a weight of over 1,300 pounds and a height of 10 feet. Normal lifespan is about 20 years, although the bears can live much longer in captivity.

While out on the tundra, the first sign of a polar bear’s presence is often the move-

ment of a yellowish form against the white snow. If the bear is further out, it may show up as a gray spot on the horizon. Tundra buggies are equipped with binoculars and spotting scopes that help watchers bring the creatures into view. No matter how it happens, catching sight of a polar bear in its natural environment is a thrill.

It’s not unusual for a bear to approach the buggy, stand on its hind legs and peer at the humans who are looking back at him. The tables are turned — unlike a visit to the zoo, where people gaze at penned animals, the people are in a cage of sorts, looking out at the wild animal in its accustomed habitat.

At times we witnessed as many as three buggies lined up observing the same bear. For the more committed polar bear watchers, there is a “snow train” — a contraption consisting of several living compartments strung together, pulled from place to place by a tundra buggy.

Sometimes we rode on the tundra, at speeds no faster than we could walk, for an hour or more before spotting a bear.

Then, suddenly, several would appear from different directions. Some would seniortimesmagazine.com

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY MARY BRIDGMAN The refraction of light from ice crystals causes “sundogs,” bright spots of light in the sky that appear around the sun. Tourists spend up to eight hours a day viewing polar bears from specially equipped tundra buggies. Ben and Mary Bridgman brave subzero temperatures for a dogsledding adventure.

dig beds in the snow and snooze, raising their heads from time to time to check us out or pick up scents. Other bears were almost playful, rolling on their backs, paws in the air.

Spending the majority of the hunting season in a solitary quest for food, male bears become more social during their time ashore. When the temperatures drop prior to the return of the ice, the large mammals become more active, awakening their muscles and reflexes by sparring with one another. Standing erect, they may swat their massive paws

at each other, taking an occasional nip with their impressive teeth.

Unlike other bears that are omnivorous, meaning they eat berries and insects as well as meat, polar bears are carnivorous.

Although polar bears are often depicted as cuddly and non-threatening, they can be quite dangerous to humans. During our trip, whenever we were outside, one of the guides was assigned to watch out for bears.

Out on the ice, polar bears search for breathing holes indicating the presence of seals that must surface periodically to breathe. When the seal rises, the bear

nabs it with powerful jaws, biting the smaller creature’s head, killing it instantly by crushing the skull. If the bear’s aim is not accurate, it will be badly scratched by the seal’s sharp flipper claws. Many of the bears we saw bore scars on their muzzles of such encounters.

Reduction in sea ice caused by global warming may threaten the polar bears’ long-term survival, shortening their feeding season. Our guide said current bear populations are not going hungry, but simply producing fewer offspring.

Perhaps the most coveted sight on the December 2013

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tundra is a mother polar bear with her twin cubs. Occasionally, a female bear will produce triplets, but that is rare.

Ever vigilant to protect her young, the mother rises frequently to sniff out any male bears that might threaten them.

Male bears are known to cannibalize cubs, although our guide said the behavior was intended primarily to cause the female to go into heat again so that the male could mate with her.

Our last day on the tundra yielded a sow with two coy — cubs one year old.

Although she didn’t come as close as we

a driver. Both the driver and one of the passengers stand. The sled master cautions passengers to keep their mouths closed during the ride, noting that the dogs aren’t outfitted with diapers. Longhaired and lean, the dogs didn’t look like the fuzzy huskies I expected to see.

The driver spoke to them as we completed the “Ididamile” course laid out for us, using the familiar terms “gee” and “haw” to indicated right and left turns.

For a thin-blooded Floridian, Churchill offers temperatures that are almost unbearable, especially when sailing

Accessible only by air and train during the coldest months, it offers a few eating establishments, several souvenir shops and one large combination grocery/hardware store where prices are understandably high. Although wireless service is available, cell phone signals are less reliable, creating a refreshing absence of folks glued to electronic communication devices. All of the businesses are locally owned; no microwaved fast food is served.

Our visit to Churchill also included a stop at the Eskimo Museum, which is

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY MARY BRIDGMAN Helicopters allow tourists to spot polar bears from the air. While not ideal for an up-close-and-personal observation, flying in the helicopter offers a scenic view of the landscape and a unique perspective for viewing polar bears.

would have liked, she was clearly visible, as were her playful offspring.

In addition to bear watching aboard a tundra buggy, visitors to Churchill can take helicopter flights and do the same thing from a different perspective. The helicopter can’t get as close to the bears, but provides an interesting perspective.

Two of the bears we spotted from above moved quickly across the snow, looking back over their shoulders at the helicopter as if annoyed by the racket of its rotors.

Another option for entertainment in the far north is dog sledding. Six dogs are harnessed to a specially built sled that accommodates two passengers and

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across the snow in a dogsled. The thermometer registered five degrees Fahrenheit that day, but wind chill, together with gusting blasts of snow, made it seem colder. Though my heavy jacket, fleece pullover and waterproof snow pants kept my legs, arms and torso warm, the insulated gloves on my hands did little to protect them from the piercing cold.

Without anything to protect my face except sunglasses, the ice crystals hitting it felt like hundreds of small needles. I completed the mile, but just barely.

Churchill is a friendly town, blanketed in white for much of the year, with about 1,000 permanent residents.

filled with tools utilized by indigenous far-northerners, as well as carvings made from stone and animal bones and tusks.

We were treated to an unexpected view of the northern lights, or aurora borealis, although they didn’t feature the colors I expected. Instead, we saw large, greenish milky pulses of light cascading across the sky.

On our final night in Winnipeg, I suggested that our group plan a reunion trip to Churchill in July, when playful white beluga whales return to the Hudson Bay to feed, give birth and molt their skin.

We’re on for 2015. And we may even spot a few polar bears. s seniortimesmagazine.com

COLUMN œ KENDRA SILER-MARSIGLIO

Healthy Edge Give Your Smile Some Love

W

hen was the last time you went to the dentist? If you can’t remember — or it was “a few years ago” — you’re not alone. Read on to know why the dentist’s chair is important to visit once a year.

As we age, our teeth become less sensitive to pain. It’s not that they’ve toughened up; it’s that the nerves inside our teeth have shrunk.

On the surface, that sounds good, huh?

Think again. As Seniors, we become prone to cavities (again). By the time a cavity hurts, it may have done so much damage that the affected tooth can’t be saved.

Two other serious mouth-related conditions that disproportionately affect Seniors: gum disease and oral cancers.

Again, you may not feel the pain until the condition is difficult to treat — as well as expensive. Protect your mouth and your health by getting an annual dental check-up.

What causes the cavity resurgence in Seniors?

One of the reasons many Seniors become prone to cavity development is dry mouth — a common medication side effect. Dry mouth can cause plaque build up, oral infections (including fungal) and difficulty swallowing. To alleviate dry mouth and protect your teeth from it, the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends the following tips: • Use over-the-counter oral moisturizers • Tell your healthcare provider that

you are having dry mouth. He or she may adjust your medication • Drink water frequently • Stimulate saliva production with sugar-free gum or lozenges • Use a humidifier to keep the air you breath moist • Avoid foods and beverages that exacerbate dry mouths (e.g., coffee, alcohol, carbonated drinks, fruit juices) To better protect your teeth from cavities, your dentist may apply a fluoride gel or varnish.

Why should I be concerned about gum disease?

Plaque build-up can also cause gum disease. Gum disease sneaks up on people. It’s typically painless until it’s severe. Left untreated, gum disease destroys your teeth’s “support system” (gums, bone, ligaments), causing teeth to fall out. Gum disease can be reversed or prevented with regular dental visits.

Why should I be concerned about mouth-related cancers?

About 35,000 people per year are diagnosed with mouth or throat cancer.

The average age of mouth-related cancer diagnoses: 62 years old. According to the ADA, symptoms of mouth-related cancers include open sores, white or reddish patches, and changes in the lips, tongue and lining of the mouth that lasts two weeks or longer. Your dentist will check for mouthrelated cancers. Early detection saves lives.

How should I prepare for a dental visit?

Here’s the information your dentist needs to maximize your check-up: • Your medications (include vitamins, herbal remedies and over-thecounter drugs) • Your medical conditions and allergies • Contact information for your healthcare providers and previous dentist • Your personal emergency contacts • Dental insurance • Your dentures or partials, even if you don’t wear them

What if I don’t have a dentist?

The ADA can help you Find-aDentist™. Visit www.mouthhealthy.org/ en/find-a-dentist to find ADA dentists near you.

How can I take care of my mouth between visits?

Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste. Most dentists recommend a toothbrush with soft bristles to prevent enamel loss.

If you have arthritis or other conditions that restrict movement, consider an electric toothbrush. Also, try a floss pick or those little brushes that are made specifically to clean between teeth instead of hard to use floss.

How do I pay for dental care?

Unfortunately, Medicare doesn’t cover routine dental care. However, organizations like AARP offer members supplemental dental insurance plans.

Discount dental plans are another option. You (or tech-savvy loved ones) can search the National Association of Dental Plans website for dental plans: nadp.org With these tips, give yourself and others a healthy edge with your beautiful smile. s Kendra Siler-Marsiglio, Ph.D. is the Director of Rural Health Partnership at WellFlorida Council.

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CALENDAR UPCOMING EVENTS IN ALACHUA & MARION LADY GAMERS

PRIMETIME INSTITUTE CLASS

First Friday of Every Month

Tuesday, December 3

1:30pm HIGH SPRINGS - Woman’s Club, 40 NW 1st Ave. The Lady Gamers meet for fun, friendship and food — and don’t forget the cards, board games and any other activities you would like to bring to the group.

2:00pm - 4:00pm GAINESVILLE - Senior Recreation Center, 5701 NW 34th Blvd. “Mountaintop Removal Coal Mining.” Jason Fults is a founder of Gainesville Loves Mountains, a local group advocating for the limitation of mountaintop coal mining. He will explain how mountaintop removal affects the environment when coal companies harvest the coal in this manner. 352-332-6917.

MUSIC IN THE PARK Third Sunday of Every Month 2:00pm - 4:00pm HIGH SPRINGS - James Paul Park and Community Garden, 200 North Main St. Every third Sunday, come enjoy local music and fresh air out in the park. Bring lawn chairs, refreshments, and blankets. Admission is free. 352-275-4190.

ARTWALK GAINESVILLE Last Friday of Every Month 7:00pm - 10:00pm GAINESVILLE - Bo Diddley Plaza. Self-guided tour of downtown’s galleries, eateries and businesses.

Pick up a map near Bo Diddley Plaza, visit more than a dozen spots, including local landmarks like the Hippodrome and The Sequential Artists Workshop. Watch live performances throughout the night, as well. www.artwalkgainesville.com.

PRIMETIME INSTITUTE CLASS Thursday, December 5 2:00pm - 4:00pm GAINESVILLE - Senior Recreation Center, 5701 NW 34th Blvd. “The Uniquely Wonderful Gift Anyone Can Give.” Dr. Moira Jackson and Mr. Dana Lucas will discuss the work of the Anatomical Board of the State of Florida and the irreplaceable value of the education afforded to medical, dental, physical therapy and nursing students from those who donate their remains. The donation procedure, as well as testimonials from students, doctors and patients, will be presented. 352-332-6917.

AARP CHAPTER

CELEBRATE THE SEASON WITH QACDG

Second Wednesday of Every Month (September thru May)

Thursday, December 5

11:00am HIGH SPRINGS - St. Madeleine’s Family Center, 17155 NW Highway 441. Come visit the monthly AARP meeting for a meet-andgreet at 10:30 a.m., a presentation often including a guest speaker at 11 a.m., and a noon covered-dish luncheon. 386-454-9834.

THE ART OF LORELAI ESSER Through January 4 Times Vary GAINESVILLE - The Thomas Center, 302 NE 6th Ave. This major immersive installation of threedimensional sculptures, mobiles and wall reliefs created from repurposed materials features pieces from Gainesville resident Lorelei Esser’s over 35 years as a visual artist. 352-334-5067.

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9:00am - Noon GAINESVILLE - Senior Recreation Center, 5701 N. W. 34th St. Pot-luck luncheon and lots of fun and camaraderie for the quilters and their friends. Quilters of Alachua County Day Guild (QACDG) meets monthly the first Thursday. Refreshments at 9:30 a.m., meeting begins 10 a.m. Guests are welcome. For more information on the guild, call Beverley Hilton, 352-373-7791, or go to www.qacdg.org.

SANTA VISIT & TREE LIGHTING Friday, December 6 6:00pm - 8:00pm ALACHUA - City of Alachua Municipal Complex, 15100 NW 142nd Ter. & Main St. Free. 386-418-6100.

SANTA CRAWL Friday, Dec 6 5:00pm - 10:00pm GAINESVILLE - Downtown. The Downtown Santa Crawl focuses on making the holiday season better for children within the community. For this evening full of holiday cheer, dress up in your best Santa, Mrs. Claus outfit or holiday themed ensemble and go with Pledge 5 to spread holiday cheer as the group travels from place to place downtown! Bring a toy donation to give to local charities as they collect for gifts to give to local kids in Gainesville. Come out to enjoy food and drinks, while giving to a good cause.

TREE LIGHTING CELEBRATION Saturday, December 7 6:00pm - 8:00pm GAINESVILLE - Thomas Center. Caroling by the Singers of the Reformation and the Gainesville Harmony Show Chorus, as well as holiday music on the hammered dulcimer and autoharp by Jim and Joyce Lillquist of the Gypsy Guerrilla Band. Holiday decorations on the giant tree and around the building, which are annually provided by the Thomas Center Associates. Santa will be on hand to visit with the children. Light refreshments will be served. 352-393-8746.

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE HAPPY ENDINGS! Saturday, December 7 1:00pm - 3:00pm GAINESVILLE - Alachua County Headquarters Library. Local romance novelists Abigail Sharpe, Lee Roland, and Shelby Reed will be giving a discussion on their latest books, their writing processes, and their novel inspirations, as well as answering questions. The authors will have books for sale and will be happy to sign them.

GUIDED TOUR AT KANAPAHA Saturday, December 7 10:00am - Noon GAINESVILLE - Kanapaha Botanical Gardens. Guided tours the first Saturday of every month. The docent will be Master Gardener, Alicia Nelson. Regular admission price for non-members and members are admitted free of charge. www.kanapaha.org.

CANE DAY Saturday, December 7 9:00am - 3:00pm NEWBERRY - Dudley Farm Historic State Park, 18730 W Newberry Rd. Come celebrate Ms. Myrtle Dudley’s birthday by grinding sugar cane in the original method and making cane syrup.

There will be farm tours, craft demonstrations, music and children’s activities. 352-472-1142.

seniortimesmagazine.com

CONCERTS AT FIRST UNITED ED METHODIST CHURCH Saturday, December 7 3:00pm OCALA - First United Methodist Church, 1126 East Silver Springs Blvd. Marion Civicc Chorale - Christmas Concert. 352-537-0207.

07.

FESTIVAL OF THE NATIVITY Y Dec. 7 and Dec. 8 GAINESVILLE - The Church of Jesus Christt of Latter-Day Saints. Saturday, Decemberr 7th 1-8pm, and Sunday December 8th from 6-9pm. 352-472-1142.

HOMESTEAD HOLIDAYS Sunday, December 8 12:00pm - 4:00pm GAINESVILLE - Historic Haile Homestead, 8500 SW Archer Rd. Stroll through the 1856 56 plantation home decked out in an array off traditional greenery and Victorian finery. See the Homestead’s famous “Talking Walls,” docents in Victorian costume and craft demonstrations.

Enjoy live holiday music performed by the violin students of Jennifer Kitts-Guzman. Sip hot cider and browse a selection of homebaked goodies. Free. 352-336-9096.

LESSONS AND CAROLS Sunday, December 8 11:00am - 7:00pm GAINESVILLE - United Church of Gainesville, 1624 NW 5th Ave. Enjoy the 22nd annual service of Lessons and Carols; traditional and non-traditional Christmas music offered by our instrumentalists and our adult, youth and children’s choirs. The program will be interspersed with the heart-warming story of Jesus’ birth. Call 352-378-3500 for more information.

CHRISTMAS CONCERT Sunday, December 8 6:30pm OCALA - First United Methodist Church, 1126 East Silver Springs Blvd. FUMC Praise Band - Christmas Concert. 352-537-0207.

PRIMETIME INSTITUTE CLASS Tuesday, December 10 2:00pm - 4:00pm GAINESVILLE - Senior Recreation Center, 5701 NW 34th Blvd. “Social Security Strategies.”

Maximize your Social Security income, reduce income taxes on your SS benefits and learn which accounts to spend down first to

Holiday Lights Friday, December 6 5:00pm - 10:00pm GAINESVILLE - The Opera House, 110 SE First St. This holiday-themed event features a storefront decorating contest with all the local businesses participating; ice skating courtesy of the City of Gainesville in the Bo Diddley Community Plaza; photos with Santa; and toy collecting to benefit Toys for Tots. Join Gainesville’s largest happy hour with food and drink specials at over 35 locations, carriage rides, huge raffle, and block party! Donate new, unwrapped toys for discounted VIP admission.

Chocolate & Champagne Holiday Gala Saturday, December 21 8:00pm GAINESVILLE - Phillips Center. A spectacular dining and dancing experience on the Phillips Center main stage. Special attraction - ‘Dancing with the Stars!’ Vote for your favorite celebrity dancer and Dance Alive partner for an evening of fun, silent auction and the Gosia and Ali band. Price: $100. 352-371-2986.

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the Homestead at night. $10 donation per person, under 12 free. $7 if purchased at the Homestead Holidays. 352-336-9096.

UPTOWN ART HOP Friday, December 13 6:00pm - 9:00pm GAINESVILLE - Thornebrook Village, 2441 NW 43rd St. Celebrate the season with a night of gallery hopping and Christmas shopping at Thornebrook Village. The event is free and open to the public. 352-378-4947.

JINGLE BELL BALL Friday, December 13

Season of Hope Race

7:00pm GAINESVILLE - Thomas Center, 302 NE 6th Ave. A festive night of dinner and dancing.

The ball is being catered by the Chef Brothers and music is being provided by Vic Donnell Trio with special guest Russ Robinson. Holiday attire. $85 ticket price. 352-372-3845.

Saturday, December 14

HOLIDAY HELPERS DRIVE

6:00am

Ongoing OCALA - MCFR Headquarters, 2631 SE 3rd St. Help Marion County Fire Rescue firefighters meet the needs of families who are struggling to eat, stay warm and bring joy into their homes during the holiday season by donating clothing, toys and non-perishable goods to under-privileged children. Firefighters can accept only new, unwrapped items. Drop off items at MCFR Headquarters or at any of the MCFR career stations. Contact: Merrie Smith: 352-291-8000.

GAINESVILLE - Gainesville Hawthorne Trail, 3300 SE 15th St. Join Tyler’s Hope and The UF Center for Movement Disorders and Neurorestoration for their 4th annual Season of Hope Run on the Gainesville Hawthorne Trail. There are both 5K and 15K races available. Learn more about registration at www.tylershope.org.

maintain your retirement income at a higher level for a longer time. Presented by Patrick J. McNamara, founder of the Gainesville Alliance, which is part of a national network of local Alliances formed to provide a qualified source for senior-specific services. 352-332-6917.

season with the Historic Ocala Preservation Society Annual Christmas Historic Home Candlelight Tour. Santa, refreshments, and entertainment will be at the Park. Tickets: $10 pre-sale for adult, and $12 evening of tour. www.historicocala.org or 352-237-5332.

DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

PRIMETIME HOLIDAY LUNCHEON

Wednesday, December 11

Friday, December 13

Time TBA GAINESVILLE - Wesley United Methodist Church, 823 NW 23 Ave. “Land of Flowers” celebrating 500 years of Florida. A musical concert, Annemiek Pronker, Director. Gainesville chapter meetings are held the second Wednesday of the month, October through May. Luncheon price is $12. Reservations are required by December 6. No-shows will be billed. For more info: gainesvilleDAR@gmail.com. 352-337-1283.

11:30am GAINESVILLE - Eastside High school, 1201 SE 43rd St. Come enjoy a holiday meal, prepared and served by Institute of Culinary Arts students.

Reservations and prepayment of $15 per person required by Friday, Dec. 6. Call or email Lee Wiegand at 352-336-8172, eleew@cox.net.

CANDLELIGHT TOUR Friday, December 13 6:00pm - 9:00pm OCALA - Turnipseed Park, between SE 12th St. and SE 13th Ave. Get in the spirit of the

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December 2013

Through Dec. 13

HOLIDAY HARMONIES Saturday, December 14 3:00pm - 7:00pm GAINESVILLE - P.K. Yonge Auditorium, 1080 SW 11th St. The Gainesville Harmony Show Chorus and the Gainesville Barbergators present a unique musical experience for the family. Tickets may be purchased ($15): www. gainesvillechorus.com or www.barbergators. com or at the door. Partial proceeds benefit the “Harmony Scholarship for Returning Veterans” at Santa Fe College and UF. 352-378-6837.

CANDLELIGHT VISITS

NEWBERRY FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS

Friday, December 13

Saturday, December 14

6:00pm - 9:00pm GAINESVILLE - Historic Haile Homestead, 8500 SW Archer Rd. Music by the violin students of Jennifer Kitts-Guzman.

Refreshments included! Fundraiser for our visitor’s center. A rare opportunity to see

3:00pm - 8:00pm NEWBERRY - Downtown. Vendors can set up for free and sell their arts and crafts. Santa and Mrs. Clause will be in the park downtown to visit with everyone. Entertainment and food will be in abundant. www.newberrymainstreet.com.

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Benefiting the

Thank You

ű - Presenting Sponsors

Additional Sponsors

Congenital Heart Center at UF

Home Magazine • Business Report • Gainesville Today • The Village Journal • Good Life Community Magazine Crime Prevention / Custom Home Entertainment • Healthy Steps Pediatrics • Business in the Heart of Florida Giggle Magazine • InterMed Biologics • Tyler’s Hope for a Dystonia Cure • Neuberger Berman • Footstone Photography 98.5 KTK • Country 103.7 The Gator • The Sky 97.3 FM • ESPN Gainesville • Wells Fargo • Epic Medical Records Kaufman Rossin & Co. • Clear Creek Farm • Holland and Knight • Rountree-Moore Auto Group • Live Oak Stud • Liberty Air Royal Restrooms • Showcase Enterprises, Inc. • Doug and Macky Barrett • Trematerra Custom Homes The Greene Hazel Community Foundation • Kids Doc Pediatrics • Ponikvar & Associates • DeLuca Toyota Dr. Arlan and Edith Rosenbloom • Mindtree • Coleen DeGroff, eXp Realty • Richard Allen and Susan Mastin Maytree Foundation Venture Realty • Charles Perry Partners, Inc. • Sumtotal Systems • The Hartley Press, Inc. • The Family of Bev Millard Causseaux, Hewett, & Walpole, Inc. • Gradell Farm • Sleep Inn & Suites • Duke Insurance Agency Front Street Commercial Realty Group • Sunshine State RVs • Two Men and a Truck • UF Health Department of Dermatology Edward W. Feldt and Joan F. Jones Fund • Gil and Becky Levy – Consultants & Analysts • Lang Jewelers • Barry Bullard Homes Brian and Amber Crawford • D.E. Scorpio Corporation • Campus USA Credit Union • Exactech • Brook Ledge Horse Transport Ken and Angela Cornell • Nancy E. Decker Pool Cleaning • Aquatic Training Institute • WCA • SunBelt Moving Co. Yvette Godet D.M.D. • Rembert Family Foundation • JF Consulting Services • Alachua Conservation Trust • Michael and Allison Haller Richard and Pam Astrom • Ajax Building Corporation • Crystal Kornblau • McDonald’s of Alachua Sequel Bloodstock • Gray, Ackerman & Haines, P.A. • Stonecliff Farm • Harold and Bonnie Jean Lyons • Ocala Poker and Jai Alai NetJets • Blue Highway • Banyan Biomarkers • Dr. David and Cheryl Kays • Dr. Ira and Gerri Gessner • Dr. Jim and Pam Duke Melvyn H. Fruit Company • Allen and Amy Musikantow • Avery and Twyla Roberts • Eric and Heather Fields • Florida Credit Union The Rosenberg Family • Signature Brands • Steve and Cynthia Perez • Donald and Mary Lou Eitzman • Southeast Car Agency The Orthopaedic Institute • GE Capital Transportation Finance

Proceeds benefit the UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital.

Visit www.NochedeGala.org

December 2013

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HIGH SPRINGS CHRISTMAS PARADE

WINTER CONCERT

PRIMETIME INSTITUTE CLASS

Sunday, December 15

Thursday, December 19

Saturday, December 14

7:30pm GAINESVILLE - Phillips Center. The Alachua County Youth Orchestra’s (ACYO) free performance showcases middle school and high school students under the direction of UF Professor Emeritus Gary Langford.

This year’s Winter Concert features: Frescobaldi’s Toccata, Tchaikovsky’s Romeo and Juliet, Bizet’s Farandole, Polar Express, Jingle Bells Forever, A Hanukkah Festival and Sleigh Ride. www.acyo.org.

2:00pm - 4:00pm GAINESVILLE - Senior Recreation Center, 5701 NW 34th Blvd. “Socioemotional Aging.”

How do our social lives, emotions, and goals change as we age? Presented by UF Psychology Department. 352-332-6917.

6:00pm – 9:00pm HIGH SPRINGS - Downtown. Traditional Christmas Parade with great sights and sounds of the season. 386-454-3120.

ALACHUA CHRISTMAS PARADE Saturday, December 14 2:00pm ALACHUA - Downtown. Traditional Christmas Parade with great sights and sounds of the season.

BAND CONCERT Sunday, December 15

TRAINS AT THE HOLIDAYS Dec. 14 - Dec. 30 11:00am - 5:00pm OCALA - Central Florida College in the Webber Center, 3001 SW College Rd. Two large model train layouts will be running, alongside many displays. Join the 18th annual event, usually attended by 4 to 5 thousand people every year, hosted by the Ocala Model Railroaders Historic Preservation Society. The College is located on Hwy. 200 across from Paddock Mall in Ocala. Closed Christmas and Christmas Eve. www.ocalamodelrailroaders.com.

2:00pm GAINESVILLE - Santa Fe Performing Arts Center, Santa Fe College. The Gainesville Community Band presents “A Bright Christmas,” featuring songs of the season. www.gnvband.org.

UF CARILLON RECITAL Sunday, December 15 3:00pm - 3:50pm GAINESVILLE - UF Campus, Century Tower Carillon. The annual carillon concert will take place outside UF’s iconic Century Tower.

Come take part in this Gainesville tradition for the holidays. www.arts.ufl.edu/carillon.

CAMELLIA SHOW Jan. 4 & Jan. 5 Times Vary GAINESVILLE - Kanapaha Botanical Gardens.

This two-day event features prize-winning camellias of all sizes, shapes and colors.

Regular admission price for non-members and members are admitted free of charge. Info: www. americancamellias.org. 352-372-4981. s 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.

352-416-0175 (fax) or email: editor@towerpublications.com

Families

Live colorfully…

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

352-332-1484 lotusphotostudios.com 44

December 2013

seniortimesmagazine.com

THEATRE

OCALA CIVIC 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

In this Ocala Civic Theatre youth production, Hans, Chrissy and Andy are all set to tell the tales of Hans Christian Andersen when they are unexpectedly transported to a world where storytelling is their only way back home. Featuring four of Andersen’s stories, this comedic play is sure to delight actors and audiences alike. www.ocalacivictheatre.com.

HIPPODROME STATE THEATRE

A Tuna Christmas November 29 - December 22 Season’s greetings from Tuna, Texas where the Lion’s Club is too liberal and Patsy Cline never dies. Now in its 11th year at the Hipp, those hilarious characters from Tuna are back to fill your holidays with cheer. www. thehipp.org.

A Christmas Carol November 30 - December 21 The entire family will enjoy the dazzling special effects and timeless message of redemption in this heartwarming Dickens classic, now in its 37th consecutive year at the Hippodrome. www.thehipp.org.

ACROSSTOWN REPERTORY THEATRE

Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol November 29 - December 22 In this fast-paced, hilarious and deeply moving soon-to-be Christmas classic, five actors bring dozens of Dickens’ characters to life and take you on a fantastic journey sure to put you in the Christmas spirit. www.acrosstown.org.

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

GAINESVILLE COMMUNITY PLAYHOUSE

Seussical November 29 - December 22 This show is a fantastical, magical, musical that has lovingly brought to life all of our favorite Dr. Seuss characters, including Horton the Elephant, The Cat in the Hat, Gertrude McFuzz, lazy Mayzie, and a little boy with a big imagination — Jojo. Seussical will be fun for the whole family! 352-376-4949.

HIGH SPRINGS COMMUNITY THEATER

The Homecoming December 6 - 22 This Christmas comedy based on the popular TV show “The Waltons” takes place on Christmas Eve, 1933. Clay Spencer has found work in a town nearly 50 miles away from his wife Olivia and their eight children. He is due home at any moment, but as the snow continues to fall, the family begins to worry. While searching the storm for his father, Clay-boy meets friends and neighbors who help him “find” more of his father than he ever knew was missing. www.highspringscommunitytheatre.com. 386-454-3525.

The Tales of Hans Christian Anderson December 6 - 8

The Nutcracker December 13 - 22 The Marion Ballet Theatre is putting on this Christmas classic for the 33rd year in a row. The Marion Ballet Theatre is a private, nonprofit organization that uses volunteers ranging in experience and age for its productions. www.ocalacivictheatre.com.

CURTIS M. PHILLIPS CENTER

“Hello, Dolly!” Starring Sally Struthers December 2 Winner of 10 Tony Awards including best musical, “Hello, Dolly!” is one of the most enduring Broadway classics.

Emmy Award-winning Sally Struthers stars as the strong-willed matchmaker Dolly, as she travels to Yonkers, N.Y. to find a match for the Horace Vandergelder. Featuring an irresistible story and unforgettable songs, “Hello, Dolly!” has been charming audiences around the world for nearly 50 years.

352-392-2787.

The Nutcracker December 20 - 22 Dance Alive National Ballet presents this Christmas classic — the story of Clara, the sugar plum fairy, the Mouse King and the Nutcracker prince. 352392-2787.

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BOOK REVIEW BY

TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER

Furious Cool: Richard Pryor and the World That Made Him

BY DAVID HENRY & JOE HENRY c.2013, Algonquin Books of Chapel Hill $25.95 / $32.95 Canada 400 pages

D

irty, nasty, ďŹ lthy.

Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what your mother claimed â&#x20AC;&#x153;those wordsâ&#x20AC;? were.

You said them onceâ&#x20AC;Ś and were never allowed to say them again in her presence.

They were bad words.

They were dirty â&#x20AC;&#x201D; unless, of course,

Richard Pryor said them. Then they were hilarious, fall-down-funny, and in the new book â&#x20AC;&#x153;Furious Coolâ&#x20AC;? by David Henry and Joe Henry, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll read a few of them, and more.

Peoria, Illinois is like â&#x20AC;&#x153;[w]hatever you think of when you hear the name,â&#x20AC;? Richard Pryor once said to an audience in 1966.

He was born there, the son of a vaudevillian and a prostitute, and was raised in his grandmotherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bordello. There, as a small boy, he learned to get laughs â&#x20AC;&#x201D; though his childhood was overall rough and marked with things little boys should never see.

When he was just 19, Pryor married his pregnant 16-year-old girlfriend, the ďŹ rst of his many marriages. He was unemployed then, but â&#x20AC;&#x153;soaked up everythingâ&#x20AC;? he saw while lounging around, watching TV. Shortly after his son was delivered prematurely, he left his young wife, moved back to his fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s house, and began performing at local Peoria clubs.

From there, Pryor bounced around between Toronto, New York and Las Vegas. He played the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Chitlin Circuit,â&#x20AC;? performed on The Ed Sullivan Show, and learned to mimic Bill Cosbyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s act. For a time, Pryor left the stage and moved to California to live a â&#x20AC;&#x153;ďŹ&#x201A;ower childrenâ&#x20AC;? existence with his second wife then, following a brief separation from her, he moved to Berkeley where he spent his days reading the works of Malcolm X.

It blew his mind. It also changed his act.

Embracing the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Nâ&#x20AC;? word and inspired to â&#x20AC;&#x153;speak truth,â&#x20AC;? Pryor revolutionized comedy with the â&#x20AC;&#x153;raw language of the streets.â&#x20AC;? People ďŹ&#x201A;ocked to concerts and comedy clubs where he performed. His genius poured forth.

But though his stage career soared, Pryorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s personal life was in shambles. He loved cocaine, cognac, women and guns, but the four together was a bad mix and his behavior â&#x20AC;&#x153;grew increasingly bizarre.â&#x20AC;?

His addictions out of control, he sought help and entered a hospital in 1979.

Later, he insisted to everyone that he was â&#x20AC;&#x153;off drugs for real this time.â&#x20AC;?

He lied. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Furious Coolâ&#x20AC;? is a wonderful, wonderful book. But I was wrung out when I ďŹ nished it, as if I had watched a car accident in excruciatingly slow motion.

Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a testament to authors David Henry and Joe Henry, both of whom had a relationship with Pryor at the end of his life, and who had access to his story.

Here, Henry & Henry give us a sense of the once-in-a-lifetime genius that Pryor was, but because we know how this tale unfolds, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s painful to read. We watch his self-destruction through these pages, and feel powerless.

And yet â&#x20AC;&#x201C; â&#x20AC;&#x153;Furious Coolâ&#x20AC;? is impossible not to enjoy. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ďŹ lled with history, memories, laughs, and yes, an abundance of profanity â&#x20AC;&#x201D; but if you want to read a story of a complicated comedy genius, it would be a dirty shame to miss it. 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.

1415 Fort Clarke Blvd.

Gainesville, FL 32606 r )BSCPS$IBTF DPN

50

December 2013

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AD VERTISEMEN 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.

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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

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“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.

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Marian’s Story When Marian Dolan experienced the worst pain she’d ever felt, she came to the ER at North Florida Regional for help.

General Surgeon Peter Sarantos and ER Physician Kerry Henderson worked together with registered nurses and paramedics to cure Marian’s pain and offered hope and comfort along the way.

Today, Marian is going strong and enjoying the things in life that she loves.

The full story about the people who were there when Marian needed them most is on our website.

The ER at North Florida Regional. Lifesaving care for life’s emergencies.

www.NFRMC.com/ER 1973 2013