DECEMber 2011
HAPPY HOLIDAYS
SINCE 1980 — VolUME 31 • NUMBER 12
Technology Adds New Depth to the Great American Novel By Matt Wiseman, Editor Senior Voice America
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A Family Thing
MEMORY LOSS
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TASTE THE SEASON
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My Mom and Dad were voracious readers. I don’t think I ever saw them without at least one book nearby. My Dad was a minister and wrote a half-dozen books. My mother struggled with fiction and found success in magazines. Somewhere along the line, I started collecting rare books — first editions, signed firsts and out-of-print reference books. I’ve even got math books teachers let us keep when they were discontinued in school. For me there’s something magical about the simple linear
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experience of reading a good book. You can’t do anything else when you are reading. It requires your full attention. It’s both an escape and an exercise. And as someone who’s been trained as a typographer and a writer, I hope I never lose my appreciation for a well-crafted, hardbound book. At the same time, I’m a huge fan of the new digital formats. For reference books, the digital format is transforming scholarship and learning. Electronic indexing, hyperlinks and social highlighting and criticism, make finding relevant information easy. For fiction and non-fiction reading, the new medium offers several advantages, which include portability and group discussion. (See more on these advantages below.)
Please See GREAT AMERICAN NOVEL, Page 22.
Irrational Exuberance: Is This the Year of the Recovery? By Robert Harwood Do you remember this term, “Irrational Exuberance?” It was used by Alan Greenspan, then head of the Federal Reserve Bank, to describe investors illogical enthusiasm for the stock-market when indications were otherwise. The end result of this “Irrational Exuberance”? Many investors lost their life savings. I am concerned that in recent weeks when you watch financial reports on TV, or hear the “analysts” on the radio, everyone seems upbeat about the economy and is forgetting about the many problems that still remain. Goldman Sach’s just re-
Senior Voice America… in print, on the web and on the air. Tune in to AM 1250 WHNZ every Tuesday and Thursday, from 11 a.m. to noon. Publisher Evan Gold brings you the information to live an active mature lifestyle. Visit our new website, Tampa Bay’s leading news source for seniors, www.seniorvoiceamerica.com.
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CAN YOU HEAR ME?
Between Gutenberg in the 1450s and the year 2000 not much changed for readers. Sure books got less expensive (and there were a lot more of them), but the basic process of visiting a local bookseller or library, making a selection and sitting down in a comfortable spot for a good read did not change much for centuries. Now, of course, local booksellers are disappearing; but that does not mean the end of literature any more than the demise of drive ins meant the end of movies. In fact, I think it means we are entering into a new Golden Age for readers. In this issue of Senior Voice America, we take a brief look at the New World of books, including the last brick-and-mortar bookshops in our area, online options, e-readers, audiobooks, libraries and book clubs. We think you’ll find there’s never been a better time to be a book lover.
cently released a report calling for 18 percent growth in the S&P 500 this year, Byron Wien at Blackstone calls for an S&P 500 of 1500 by December of this year and you watch CNBC and get the feeling that if you don’t just jump back into the markets you are going to miss the “recovery” of a lifetime. They may be right with their predictions — nobody truly knows — but I think the enthusiasm is a little over blown. Let’s not throw “Caution to the Wind,” and repeat the mistakes from the past! (Stay rational!) There are still significant problems — such as our enormous federal deficit
Please See IRRATIONAL, Page 21.
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Senior Voice America
DECEMBER 2011
DECEMBER 2011
Senior Voice America
Health Roundup
Five Reasons to Address Your Hearing Loss important items in conversation or unconsciously withdrawing yourself from your duties. Correcting hearing problems can allow you to perform your job to the best of your ability. 2) Improve your social life. Whether you know it or not, hearing problems can cause you to communicate ineffectively with others, which can hinder relationship building. It may also cause you to decide not to participate in activities or social gatherings as you otherwise would. 3) Improve your relationship with your family. Communication is even more important in the intimate relationships you maintain with family members. When communication is interrupted by hearing loss, it can weaken those relationships without the intention of doing so. Hearing loss can affect the subtle communication that is so important to maintaining a strong bond with your loved ones. 4) Today’s hearing aids are no longer obtrusive. For example, U.S. hearing technology company Starkey offers invisible hearing aids that are worn deep in the ear canal or are hidden behind your ear. ©bigstockphoto.com
If you’re having problems hearing but haven’t yet done anything to address them, you’re not alone. Every day people put off getting help for hearing loss for a number of reasons that range from not wanting to show signs of vulnerability to being fearful of having to wear a bulky hearing aid. While these reasons are understandable, the benefits of getting hearing help far outweigh the reasons for avoiding seeing a hearing specialist. This is especially true when you take into account that hearing aids are more discreet than they’ve ever been — some can even be considered invisible. This makes it easy for someone to correct hearing loss without experiencing the discomfort or self-consciousness often associated with hearing aids. If you’re experiencing trouble hearing, here are five reasons to get help and visit a hearing care professional: 1) Increase your financial growth opportunity. If you have untreated hearing loss, there’s a good chance you aren’t reaching your full potential in the workplace, as you may be missing
5) Hearing aids work better than ever. Today’s hearing aids address the most common concerns of wearers, including virtually eliminating feedback (buzzing and whistling) and providing noise management technology that identifies and preserves speech even in the noisiest environments. Volume control has also become more sophisticated, so you don’t have to constantly make adjustment based on your environment. Finally, some hearing aids can connect directly with the media devices in your home including TV, MP3 player or stereo. When you get help for your hearing problem, you have the potential to improve your life in ways you may have never imagined. With the right hearing aid and treatment, you can improve the way you communicate, which can help you reach your full potential and improve your relationships with those who are important to you. The first step is to visit a hearing care professional to find out what course of action is right for you. To find a professional, visit www.starkey.com.
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Senior Voice America
DECEMBER 2011
Health Roundup
Keep Your Mental Edge as You Age Senior Voice America, Inc. PO Box 270 • Lutz, FL 33548 Phone: (813) 949-0006 • Fax: (813) 433-5181 www.seniorvoiceamerica.com Staff Publisher: Evan Gold evan@seniorvoiceamerica.com Associate Publisher: Timm Harmon timm@seniorvoiceamerica.com Broadcast Producer: Deb Goldman deb@seniorvoiceamerica.com Editor: Matthew Wiseman editor@seniorvoiceamerica.com Creative Director: Ed Luiso ed@seniorvoiceamerica.com Circulation Manager: Sharon Altman sharon@seniorvoiceamerica.com ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES • (813) 949-0006 Timm Harmon timm@seniorvoiceamerica.com Scarlett Waldron scarlett@seniorvoiceamerica.com Traci Olson traci@seniorvoiceamerica.com Join our sales team. For information about opportunities throughout Florida and North America, email evan@seniorvoiceamerica.com.
Contributors Christine G. Varner Would you like to write for Senior Voice America? Please email editor@seniorvoiceamerica.com
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If you’ve ever walked into a room to look for something but forgot what you were looking for, you’re familiar with the feelings of forgetfulness and frustration. Unless you take immediate action, these feelings may worsen each year. There are easy lifestyle choices you can make every day to sustain your mental edge as you age. Cognitive decline, including memory loss, is one of the top fears among people over the age of 55. More than half of baby boomers fear the loss of mental capacity and 41 percent are afraid their brain fitness has decreased in the past 10 years, according to a 2010 report in Today’s Dietitian. “New research shows that by changing our lifestyle habits we can help grow key parts of our brains, resulting in better memory, improved learning speed and mental agility,” said Majid Fotuhi M.D., Ph.D., chairman of the Neurology Institute for Brain Health and Fitness in Baltimore.
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THE SENIOR VOICE OF FLORIDA • EST. 1980
Give Your Brain a Physical Workout Exercise helps maintain a healthy body and brain. Research has found associations between physical activity and reduced risk of cognitive decline. Give your body and brain a workout by engaging in physical activities such as yoga, walking and weight lifting, at least 30 minutes every day. It helps keep cholesterol levels in check, maintains good blood flow and encourages the growth of new brain cells and connections.
Nourish Your Mind Help protect your brain cells from memory loss by following a diet that includes foods rich in good fats such as DHA, a major structural fat accounting for up to 97 percent of the omega-3 fats in the brain. DHA intake has been associated with a decreased risk of mental decline associated with aging. The body doesn’t make DHA on its own, so you need to consume DHA though food or supplements. “The more omega-3 fat you eat, the more it is incorporated into brain cells, the more flexible your brain cell membranes become, the better you think,
Better Living for Seniors The Guardian Association of Pinellas County The Florida Assisted Living Association
the more you remember and the happier you are,” said Elizabeth Somer, M.A., registered dietitian and author of Eat Your Way to Happiness. You can find DHA in certain foods, but another easy way to get it is by taking a daily DHA supplement like BrainStrong Adult, which contains 900 mg per serving of life’sDHA, which is clinically shown to improve memory in adults over 55, according to a study published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association.
Activate Your Mind Develop a “use it or lose it” philosophy when it comes to your brain. Studies have shown that brain cells, much like muscle cells, can grow bigger and stronger with cognitive challenges and stimulation. Pursuing education, learning a new language, reading, working crossword puzzles and even playing board games are fun ways to exercise your mind. Keep your brain active by engaging in brain-boosting activities you enjoy. Commit to learning something new each month.
Stay Socially Connected
Senior Voice America is published monthly and is distributed free of charge, courtesy of its advertisers. Distribution area includes Pinellas, Hillsborough and Pasco counties. Articles and advertising contained in this issue do not necessarily reflect the opinion or endorsement of the publisher, who does not verify advertiser claims and reserves the right to refuse or discontinue any advertising.
Friends and family are often the key to happiness and they just may be the key to brain health as well. Social interaction not only makes your life more fun and meaningful, but it also stimulates and protects your brain. Stay connected with others by being part of an in-person interaction, whether it’s in the workplace, a card club, a network of friends or a religious congregation. Seek out friends and family for emotional support to help manage stress and stay happy. Put your passions into action by volunteering for a cause you feel passionate about. By giving your brain a little more attention, you’ll not only lead a fuller life, but you’ll also be helping to keep your mental edge. ©bigstockphoto.com
Tune in to AM 1250 WHNZ... Tuesday & Thursday, 11am to Noon
For more about brain health, visit www.BrainStrongDHA.com.
DECEMBER 2011
Senior Voice America
Health Roundup
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There are More Benefits to Calcium Than Women Might Think
Eighty percent of women don’t get enough calcium from food alone, according to a recent study conducted by the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. That means women’s bodies are stealing calcium from their bones. Many foods like milk and other dairy products are well known to be prime sources of calcium. Calcium is a crucial nutrient that helps build and maintain bones, muscles and teeth. It also keeps us moving by helping to maintain muscle health and strength. But taking a calcium supplement alone isn’t enough. The NIH reports that vitamin D intake is also important because it improves calcium absorption. But many women are falling short of meeting their recommended daily calcium allowance — between 1,000 mg and 1,200 mg. In fact, many assume that a drop of milk in their morning cup of coffee will provide all the calcium they need for the day. Ladies may be surprised to learn that an eight ounce glass of skim milk only makes up 30 percent of the calcium they need each day. If you are not getting enough calcium or enough exercise, your body is more likely to steal the calcium it needs from your bones.
Risks of Not Enough Calcium One of the most common risks of not getting enough calcium is osteoporosis, a disease characterized by low bone mass and deterioration of bone tissue. Osteoporosis can lead to bone fragility. Without bone-density testing, you may not know you’re suffering from osteoporosis until you suffer a fracture — which happens to half of all women older than 50.
Starting Young If you think calcium is important only when you’re older, think again. The study also found that 90 percent of teenage girls aren’t getting enough calcium through diet alone. Since boys and girls between the ages of 9 and 18 years old need 1,300 mg of calcium per day, getting a head start on healthy habits can prove vital in providing a strong nutritional foundation as they get older.
Finding the Right Supplement If you don’t get enough calcium through your diet, then supplements, like Caltrate, are a good compliment to giving your body the nutrients it needs to help keep your bones strong and your body moving. These days, calcium supplements, like Caltrate, are available in tablets, soft chews and gummy forms and most can be taken with or without food. However, calcium alone isn’t enough. Calcium should be taken in conjunction with vitamin D because it helps the body absorb calcium for the development and maintenance of bones. It also supports mobility as it may help improve muscle health and strength. Caltrate helps replenish the calcium and vitamin D3 women need each day. To highlight that commitment, Caltrate is partnering with Susan G. Komen for the Cure as a national sponsor of Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure series. To learn more about the importance of calcium and vitamin D in your diet, for special offers and product information and to share your story about who, or what, moves you, visit Facebook.com/Caltrate.
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Senior Voice America
DECEMBER 2011
Health Roundup
How to Stop Your Foot Pain! By Dr. Bonnie Sanchez, DPM Board Certified ABPOPPM Your foot hurts because you are injuring it with every step you take. What I have found is that over the years your tendons, muscles and ligament have been stretched out like an overused rubber band creating laxity in you feet and ankles. This laxity causes a misalignment on the joints and bones of the feet and ankles. All of this leads to tired, painful feet. You have tired more expensive shoes, or shoe inserts from the drug store, or even possibly some very expensive inserts for your shoes that did not work. But, all you want is only to be pain free. My solution is to solve the underlying problem of this constant re-injury of your feet and ankles ev-
ery time you take a step. I do this by holding your feet in their unique ideal position with every step you take. I use full contact therapeutic orthotics that captures your ideal arch. The orthotics go into your shoes and by holding your arch in your ideal position, your muscles, tendons, ligaments, muscles, bones and joints can again work together properly. My patients have experienced relief from years of foot pain, some even no longer need a cane or walker, many have also experienced relief of ankle, knee, hip and back pain. If these are the types of results you are looking for, please contact my office to schedule an appointment and evaluation. Contact Dr. Bonnie Sanchez, DPM, in Pinellas at (727) 824-5100 and in Hillsborough at (813) 645-1993.
DECEMBER 2011
Senior Voice America
Health Roundup Memory Loss: Like a Stealth Bomber? By Christine G. Varner, Executive Director The Villas of Belleair, Memory Care Community Memory loss is such a strange thing. You can’t see it. You can’t touch it. You can’t hear it. You can’t smell it. You can’t taste it. Staring into the eyes, ears, nose or throat with the naked eye cannot give you a clue. Palpation and percussion of the head or neck will reveal nothing. Listening to the chest or smelling of the breath won’t work either. The usual tools that Mom used to diagnose our childhood illnesses or that the family doctor or office nurse could employ are worthless. Memory loss is like a brewing storm — you just don’t know it’s coming if you’re not paying attention. Or, it is like a stealth bomber — you never even saw it coming until the bomb hits. Unfortunately, the disease that will ravage the brain and steal the memory is a pretty sneaky entity. Those of us who are already touched by this illness have an inside track on new medications, diagnostics and approaches to diagnosing and treating the memory disorder. Yet still, we are where we are — probably not ever having guessed that we would be here. Those who have not yet been touched may have a niggling worry in the back of their mind. They may have a family history or a predisposing gene. They may know someone who has dealt with this illness. For the most part, though, these folks walk through their daily routines not suspecting that their lives may change at any moment. When memory loss begins to become apparent, we can deny, we can rational-
ize and we can make excuses. But as the loss becomes more pronounced, the disease has already snuck in the back door and has probably been living with us for some time already. The ravaging of the brain cells has already begun — slowly but surely robbing us of the one we knew. Standing before us is the loved one who looks all the word like the person we have known. Their hair is the same color, their smile the same, their walk and gestures so familiar. Yet, all the while we are looking at that same corporeal body, the essence… the mind… the thoughts… habits… behavior… are slipping away. By the time we can deal with the early losses, another progression of the disease process has snuck in. We see a subtle, or sometimes, marked change. More and more, the losses take their toll and soon the corporeal body begins to fail as well. Only now can we see it, touch it, hear it so clearly. Memory loss is indeed a strange thing, an insidious thing, a terrible thing. And still, we are where we are — never having guessed that we would be here. Would that we could change it. Would that we could make it go away. Would that a “cure” can be found. In the meantime, we support one another with an understanding that no one, no one who has not been touched will know. We hug each other and say, “I know.” We face the inevitable together. can be saviors for some of us. And we understand that we have been blessed — blessed with our friends and family support, blessed for having the chance to remember even though they have forgotten — blessed to have had them in our lives and our love.
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Senior Voice America
CANCER ANSWERS
Survive – and Thrive! During the Holiday Season The holidays are upon us and as we start planning this season’s holiday parties with friends and family, we can’t but think of the culinary pleasures and indulgences that we succumb to during this time each year. After the tables are clean and dishes put away, what remains for many of us are those bulges of fat we acquired along with the presents – in the waist, hips and chin that become sore reminders of those extra calories and fat that we wish we had have walked away from, explains Moffitt Cancer Center Researcher and Professor, Nagi Kumar, Ph.D., R.D., F.A.D.A. With a little planning and determination, however, you can make healthy selections and avoid many wrong choices. This holiday season involve your network of family and friends to help you put together some creative ways to have fun while helping to fight cancer. Focus on things to do that will help you laugh and enjoy yourself while spending good times with others. These simple suggestions can help serve as a guide to a healthier lifestyle and healthy eating, not only during the holidays but also throughout the year.
1) Get Moving! Exercise doesn’t have to be complicated. Experts say that walking 40-45 minutes a day can be just as healthy as going to a gym. Consider the benefits of walking for both exercise and quality time with your friends and family members during the busy holiday season. Staying active helps maintain a healthy weight – which is important in lowering your risk for cancer, heart disease and stroke.
2) Include the colors of the holidays also in the foods you eat. Include 8-10 vegetables, fruits and whole grains, rich in yellow, green, red and orange colors that signify they are full of phytochemicals, or plant chemicals, shown to help fight cancers as well as heart disease. “Our knowledge about what causes and prevents cancer and other chronic diseases like heart disease has expanded significantly over the past decade, and we know that substances found in these plant foods are potentially preventive in terms of lowering one’s risk of cancer and heart disease,” Dr. Kumar says. “Most importantly, they contain complex carbohydrates, which are the “good carbs” – rich in fiber and naturally low in calories.”
3) Plan for some indulgence: If you are going to be at a party, adjust your intake during lunch or breakfast that day to allow for a special treat for yourself. For example, consider indulging in a small piece fresh pumpkin or sweet potato pie that is filled with antioxidants. The American Cancer Society recommends avoiding alcohol. Alcoholic drinks are full of calories, and drinking them could weaken one’s resolve to eat better. If you decide to indulge, however, avoid heavy holiday drinks and opt for a light beer or a glass of wine instead. Healthy beverage choices include sparkling water or hot green tea or apple cider.
4) Do not go to the party or the dinner table hungry. Try not to skip your meals all day. Drink more water or 100% fruit or vegetable juices. Plan ahead by eating a small snack like whole grain crackers and cheese or some walnuts or almonds before you set out.
5) Be assertive, take charge of your eating. Keep in mind you don’t have to eat everything, nor do you have to finish your plate. It is your choice – pick the leaner meats and plenty of vegetables and whole grain foods. Stay away from cured, salty meats and those items that are oozing butter. And remember, be subtle about your approach to healthy eating; after all, you probably want to be invited back the next year!
For more tips on healthy holiday eating, visit: www.insidemoffitt.com/holiday-eating-tips
DECEMBER 2011
Health Roundup
Fewer Seniors with Pain Ask Questions About Treatment By Connie Leon, PharmD The American Pain Foundation recently released a survey showing that 17 percent of adults with chronic pain who have tried to reach their primary pain care providers with questions face difficulties. The top three questions relate to treatment side effects (62 percent), duration of treatment (55 percent) and cost (41 percent). “Concerns about side effects, how long to stay on a treatment and affordability of care are all factors that ultimately play a role in the success or failure of a pain treatment program,” said Micke Brown, BSN, RN, director of communications for the American Pain Foundation. “It’s important for people with pain who are under the care of a health care provider to be able to easily reach their providers when they have questions. Open lines of communication and trust between providers and their patients are critical for safe and effective pain management.” The survey found that 28 percent of Americans report issues with chronic pain, a number that is consistent with national research estimates. However, that prevalence rose to 37 percent of adults aged 55-64 and 39 percent of adults aged 65 and older. Approximately 80 percent of adults with chronic pain are currently seeing a pain care provider. This number jumps to 93 percent for adults age 65 and older. Interestingly, only 35 percent of people age 55-64 and 36 percent of people 65 and older had questions about their treatment after the fact, compared to 43 percent of the general population. “Many people accept pain as a part of growing older,” said Ms. Brown. “And, while it’s good to see that many people over 65 are seeking treatment for their pain, it’s interesting that we found a lower percentage of people who have questions. It makes us wonder if fewer people do have questions, or perhaps are just not comfortable asking them.” A reported 80 percent of adults with pain are currently seeing a pain care provider of any sort. In the South, 81 percent report seeing a pain care provider, but this number jumps to 90 percent of people with pain living in Florida. And, while one in four (26 percent) Florida residents in pain reported seeing a specialist for their pain none reported seeing a pain specialist in the state, which may indicate concerns ©bigstockphoto.com
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about pain treatment. The survey also found that 14 percent of adults living with chronic pain who have questions about their pain treatment have not tried to reach out to their providers. The top two reasons cited for not speaking up are not wanting to “bother” their healthcare provider and fear of looking like a “complainer.” Among those who’ve tried to reach the pain care provider they see most often with questions about treatment, 17 percent said it is “Very” or “Somewhat” difficult to reach them. However, only 9 percent of these people who are over the age of 65 expressed difficulties. In comparison, 33 percent of these people aged 3544 said that they had difficulty reaching their health care provider with questions about their pain care treatment. “Not only do older adults have fewer questions about pain treatment, they may be accepting difficulty in reaching their pain care providers as just a normal part of their care. We want to get the word out that it’s important to ask questions if you have them and be persistent if you’re not getting those questions answers. Being stoic and living with pain won’t do you any good. You deserve to have your pain treated,” said Ms. Brown. Information about pain and tools to help with health care provider communication are available at APF’s website, www.painfoundation.org. Additionally, information about pain treatment safety for both consumers and health care providers is available at APF’s PainSAFE™ site, www.PainSafe.org. The national survey commissioned by APF and conducted online by Harris Interactive in August 2011 among 2,118 adults 18 and older of which 619 currently live with chronic pain, also found that nearly half (43 percent) of those who have sought out pain treatment options had questions about their treatment after they left their provider’s office. Connie Leon, PharmD, is an American Pain Foundation Action Network Leader for the state of Florida (www. painfoundation.org). Connie is a pain and palliative care clinical pharmacist who has been moved to advocate for the rights of people with pain through her daily experiences. She is also the president of the Florida Pain Initiative (www.floridapain.org or fpi@florida. usa.com).
DECEMBER 2011
Senior Voice America
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HOLIDAY TIME
The Tastes of the Season — Savory, Sweet, Traditional and Scrumptious The holiday season is fast approaching — and this year there are some new tastes joining traditional favorites to tempt even the most temperamental palates. Industry trend watcher Andrew Freeman predicted earlier this year that one of the trends for 2011 would also include a search for simplicity and pure flavors, using powders and dried ingredients. You’ll see many of these flavorings as food manufacturers roll out their holiday fare this fall and winter. According to the Cooking Channel, one of the biggest trends is adding a modern touch to homemade foods. Food manufacturers like The Kansas City Steak Company are embracing the trend and adding some interesting flavors to their products. “Our customers are asking for more tasteful adventures for their holiday menus,” says Edward Scavuzzo, President of Kansas City Steak Company. “We know that spice consumption in this country is at an all-time high — according to McCormick & Company spice con-
holiday season. 1) Espresso is a wonderful flavor enhancer to spice rubs. Whether it’s added to a steakhouse rub or enjoyed in a cappuccino, the deep, rich flavor of espresso adds a depth of flavor to foods that’s rich and satisfying. 2) Sun-dried tomatoes add earthy flavors to recipes. Whether they’re incorporated into chicken roasts or meatloaf, chili or salad, the intense tomato flavor adds both texture and the perfect bite to holiday recipes. 3) Healthful and flavorful, cherries are sure to make your holiday meal sparkle. Whether tart or sweet, cherries are considered an antioxidant super food and will be present in many holiday treats this year. Watch for them to be matched with other fruits,
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sumption is growing more than three times as fast as the population. Today’s pantry consists of about 40 different seasonings, compared to less than 10 in the 1950s. We have been providing our customers with top-of-the-line meats since 1932. We love blending these flavor trends into our product mix and adding them to our more traditional and always flavorful, steaks and roasts.” Here are some flavor trends to watch for this
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See TasTES, on Page 12.
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Senior Voice America
DECEMBER 2011
HOLIDAY TIME
Holiday Cleaning Hints
Kitchen • Tackle the Fridge — Clear out food and leftovers that are past their prime. Wipe down shelves and make room for batches of holiday cookie dough and perishable food gifts you might get. Wipe down the handles and doors with Windex Multi-Surface Vinegar. It gently cleans even stainless steel with a streak-free shine and a fresh, clean scent. • Declutter — Clear everything off the counters that isn’t involved in cooking. Put whatever has been slowly piling up, like mail and magazines, in piles: throw away, keep and recycle. This will make clearing the clutter more manageable.
• Clean the Stovetop — Crumbs can build up in the space between the stove and the countertop. Use a stiff brush to loosen and remove them in no time. Once the crumbs are gone, wrap the bristles with a cloth dipped in warm soapy water to degrease that area.
Bathroom • Let the Light In — Take down your bathroom light fixtures and clean them with Windex Original Glass Wipes. Dust off your light bulbs too — you’ll be surprised at how much brighter the bathroom looks when you’re done. • Soap Up the Sink — Use an old toothbrush to get behind the sink faucet and knobs and don’t forget the sink pedestal or lower cabinets where dust, hair and makeup can build up. • Spruce Up — Fresh, neatly folded towels, scented hand soaps and a seasonal candle go a long way toward making a bathroom look and feel welcoming.
Living room • Freshen Up Fabrics — Get pet hair off of upholstery with your favor-
ite pet hair remover. Vacuum upholstered surfaces, then spot clean and use a fabric freshener where needed. Add a few seasonal pillows or throws for a fresh look guests will love. • Make It Shine — Dust can build up on your most valuable electronics including computers, televisions and other items in your living room. Whether it’s Windex Electronics Spray, Dry Cloths, or Wipes, the gentle formula removes dust, dirt and grime from household electronics, leaving behind only a streak-free shine. • Get Rid of Smudges — Doorknobs, light switches, phones and more can get smudges and fingerprints. Give them a good cleaning with Windex Original Glass and Surface Wipes — this is a great job for the kids to tackle.
Celebrating 75 Years of Shine
Just in time for the holiday entertaining season, these easy tips will make your house a shiny, clean and welcoming place for all your holiday guests, whether they’re planned or not. For more cleaning ideas or to share your own tips and traditions, visit www.facebook.com/windex.
To celebrate its 75th birthday, Windex is looking back through history and inviting families to share their tried and true traditions and shining moments. Visit the brand’s Facebook page to share your family’s holiday traditions and get ideas from others for starting new ones.
Photo courtesy of Getty Images
The holidays are a great time to make memories with friends and family and a clean and inviting home sets the tone. From family traditions and cookie exchanges to visits from out of town guests, you want your home to always have that special holiday shine. Windex has been helping homes sparkle for the holidays — and every day — for 75 years. Here are some hints to help you keep your home clean and inviting all season long.
DECEMBER 2011
Senior Voice America
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HOLIDAY TIME
Pair Thoughtful Food and Drink with Gifts to Make Them Special In tight economic times, putting together thrifty yet thoughtful presents doesn’t have to be difficult. With a dash of creativity and a sprinkle of detail, it’s easy to whip up the perfect present with the right personal touch, says Emmy award-winning chef and cookbook author, Giada De Laurentiis. “I love to add a homemade element, whether it’s a freshly baked dessert or custom wrapping, because it makes the gift that much more unique and personal,” De Laurentiis says. “I also find that
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pairing a present with a favorite bottle of wine adds a delicious and elegant touch.” Whether you’re trying to find the perfect gift for an outdoorsy friend or the host of a holiday gathering, De Laurentiis shares her customized gift ideas that make it easier than ever to give a perfectly personal (and price conscious) present: • For the movie fan — As the granddaughter of famed film producer Dino De Laurentiis, Giada knows just what a movie aficionado wants. She suggests choosing a colorful popcorn bowl and adding a bag of gourmet popcorn kernels, an herb-infused olive oil, a favorite light-bodied white wine like Pinot Grigio and a classic movie on DVD. “Giving the gift of a movie night is the perfect touch for cinema enthusiasts,” De Laurentiis says. “Plus, the infused olive oil gives the popcorn a special gourmet flair without breaking the bank.” • For the travel enthusiast — A travel-themed gift basket is a great match for any jetsetter, and De Laurentiis enjoys spicing this one up with a little Italian flare.
In a canvas tote bag, pop in a popular travel book, a portable clock, a pocket translator and a batch of your favorite biscotti. “I sprinkle green and red sugar crystals on top of my holiday biscotti for a festive garnish,” De Laurentiis says. “Also, this kind of Italian cookie pairs nicely with a crisp, fruity Italian wine like Bella Sera Moscato.” • For the epicurean — A cookbook is a classic choice to give your favorite foodie, so why not spruce it up Giada-style? “I like to include a finished product of one of the recipes so the recipient can get a flavor of what’s inside,” she says. Pair those with a favorite bottle of wine — “You can’t go wrong with a smooth Bella Sera Pinot Noir,” De Laurentiis says — and place everything in a decorative wicker basket with a colorful ribbon and your epicurean gift is cooked to perfection. • For the outdoor adventurist — A portable butane camping stove is a must-have for every outdoor enthusiast. Accompany it with cooking utensils, a sturdy skillet, a batch of homemade Italian flat bread and a versatile red wine like Merlot and you’ve created the ultimate camping cookout gift. “A
cooking kit is perfect for your ourdoorsy friends or relatives because it contains practical items they can use for many of their excursions,” De Laurentiis says. When it comes to baking flat bread, De Laurentiis suggests brushing the dough with extra-virgin olive oil to get a crispy, shiny crust. • For the romantic — Whether you’re gifting a hopelessly romantic friend or a newlywed couple, De Laurentiis suggests giving the gift of love with a stylish container full of freshly baked chocolate desserts. Along with it, she adds a pair of wine glasses and a bottle of dry, light-bodied red wine, such as Chianti. “With a delicious dessert and the zesty touch of Chianti, this gift idea is the perfect combination of sweet and spicy romance,” De Laurentiis says. • For the holiday gathering host/hostess — A bottle of wine is always a thoughtful hostess gift and appreciated at holiday get-togethers. “Bella Sera wines pair wonderfully with a variety of foods, so bring bottles of both red and white to a holiday party,” De Laurentiis suggests. “That way everyone can choose their favorite and truly get in the holiday spirit.”
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DECEMBER 2011
HOLIDAY TIME TASTES, Continued from Page 9. meats and sides throughout the season. 4) Aged beef continues to make the holidays special. One taste trend that will never go out of holiday style: luscious, tender steaks and perfectly juicy roasts. The centerpiece of any holiday meal is still a great choice for wowing your most treasured friends — you name it, meats like Wagyu Kobe Beef, USDA Prime Chateaubriand and Roasted Steakhouse Rub Tenderloin Roast (some of Kansas City Steak’s best-selling items) are holiday favorites every year. There’s just something about taking a bite of a juicy, flavorful steak that makes your day memorable. 5) Don’t forget the old-school favorites. Berkshire Pork, roasts of all kinds, grandma’s special casserole — comfort foods extraordinaire. These foods burst with flavors of the season, rich with memories of years gone by. When planning those special holiday meals, it’s always good to have a handy guide to pair these new flavors with the perfect complementary sauces, sides and complementary wines. Gourmet guides like the one that Kansas City Steak offers free to consumers from its website, provide quick, easy tips to add some holiday flair to your special gatherings. Many other companies also offer
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helpful tips and techniques to help you get the most extraordinary flavor for your food dollar — all while impressing your guests with your unique gourmet touches that are sure to make the moments memorable. Whether you’re craving more adventurous holiday menu choices this year or sticking with the more traditional flavors of the season, you’re sure to find many treats to explore online and in your local grocery store. Start planning for your best holiday yet.
DECEMBER 2011
Senior Voice America
Health FACTS
Heartfelt Testimony from Patients a Tribute to the Power of Healthy Vision “Bless you… your expert care has given me the gift of continued sight.” It was an emergency. Mildred Pollock, of Palm Harbor, was referred to Healthy Vision Institute from her general ophthalmologist. That very same day, Mildred was rushed to Healthy Vision Institute’s Clearwater office. “Her Age-related Macular Degeneration went from the dry form to the wet form very quickly, requiring immediate treatment,” explains HVI founder and medical director, Dr. James P. Powers, a vitreoretinal surgeon and board certified ophthalmologist. “I believe that Dr. Powers’ quick response and expert intervention saved my sight,” Mildred said. “I am confident, had I not been blessed to come under Dr. Powers’ expert care, I would not be seeing as I do today.” Mildred has now been under watchful care at HVI for nearly six years. Her vision has remained stable. During the Christmas holidays, Dr. Powers treated Ben Kincer, of New Port Richey, for a severe detached retina in his right eye. “Dr. Powers gave me his personal cell phone number just in case I had any problems that needed immediate attention,” explains Mr. Kincer. “This tells me what a caring and dedicated doctor he is. Dr. Powers saved the vision in my right eye, and I am forever grateful to him.” To help tri-county residents in Pinellas, Hillsborough and Pasco counties find out if they are at risk for AMD, Healthy Vision Institute, Tampa Bay’s leading diabetic and senior vision care center, has teamed up with ArcticDx, Inc., a world-renowned molecular diagnostic company, to exclusively provide the first DNA test to determine inherited risk for AMD. “It’s revolutionary to be able to let my patients know that they are at risk for macular degeneration. From that point forward, we can watch for signs, educate patients about the symptoms of the disease and develop an individualized treatment regimen,” explains Dr. Powers. Selected by ArcticDx for his specialized skill and experience with AMD patients, Dr. Powers has invested in providing the most technologically advanced solutions for predicting, diagnosing and treating AMD. HVI’s 1-2-3 Save Your Sight Treatment Plan includes the new macular degeneration DNA test to predict your risk, guaranteed to be covered by insurance for qualified patients. Secondly, the plan includes high definition, multi-modality eye imaging with HRA Spectralis technology to detect asymptomatic early stages of wet AMD. HVI has success stabilizing further progression and has an astonishing 40-50 percent success rate improving patients’ vision by three lines or more on the eye chart. Thirdly, look for HVI’s upcoming treatment for macular degeneration (EYLEA™) by Bayer and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals. With more than 100,000 patient visits,
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HVI is leading the way in the Tampa Bay area to predict, detect and prevent blindness. With office locations in New Port Richey, Dunedin and St. Petersburg, HVI services patients with AMD, diabetic retinopathy and other retinal diseases including vein occlusions, macula holes/puckers, retinal tears and detachments. HVI also offers the services of a board certified optometrist and a highly-skilled staff of optical technicians to assist with all eye care needs. In addition to helping seniors and diabetics preserve their vision for many years to come, HVI has 15 supplementary services and benefits to save you money, reduce your stress and shorten your appointment wait time, including reserved scheduling for all AMD patients.
15 Patient Benefits 1) Complete Senior & Diabetic Eye Care 2) Trustworthy Leadership 3) DNA Genetic Testing for Macular Degen- eration 4) Multi-Mode Testing 5) 24-Hour Doctor Availability 6) Optical Boutique for all Ages and Budgets 7) New Healthy Sight™ Vision Aid Program 8) Vision Saver Preferred Program 9) Patient Appreciation Programs 10) Transportation Assistance and Home Care Services 11) Prescription Assistance Program Free Home Delivery 12) Grants, Foundations and Financial Aid 13) Patient Referral Award Program 14) Patient Advocate: One-on-one Services Consultation 15) 1-2-3 Save Your Sight Treatment Plan Call Healthy Vision Institute at (727) 7385900 for an appointment. Reserve your seat for an upcoming educational Lunch & Learn seminar offering the new DNA test and complimentary eye screening. To learn more visit www.HealthyVision.org.
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Senior Voice America
DECEMBER 2011
Health FACTS The First and Only Laser Cataract Procedure in Central Florida Now Available at St. Michael’s Eye & Laser Institute in Largo John Michaelos M.D of St. Michael’s Eye & Laser Institute Tampa Bay’s Premier Eye & Laser Center. John M. Michaleos, M.D., is pleased to announce that St.Michael’s Eye & Laser Institute in Largo is the first and only practice in Central Florida to offer the latest advancement in cataract surgery: the LenSx laser for the treatment of cataracts. The LenSx laser is an advanced, precision-based technology that operates with unmatched accuracy and computer control, allowing the surgeon to customize your Premium Lens cataract procedure to your unique vision needs. The LenSx laser, in conjunction with one of their Premium Lens cataract procedure options, offers the most technologically advanced treatment for cataract patients. The LenSx laser revolutionizes the way today’s cataract surgery is performed. Until now, cataract surgery required the use of a manual surgical blade, but with recent FDA approval, selected cataract surgeons across the country can utilize the LenSx laser and eliminate the need for a surgical blade. This laser approach to cataract surgery allows your surgeon to further improve
Open: M-F 8am to 4pm EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY
the accuracy and predictability of the procedure, providing patients with increased precision and a faster healing time. With the impressive technological advancements that are made daily to improve our lives and restore our good health it is difficult to imagine that cataract surgery has been performed the same way for years — until now! The cloudy and distorted vision cause by cataracts can now be restored with a quick, bladeless surgery. The LenSx allows precision that is unmatched by the traditional cataract surgery performed by hand. Guided by the operating surgeon, the LenSx Custom Cataract System uses two new technologies that together create the controlled accuracy you expect from the experts in eye care. With an OCT Scan the surgeon is able to view the eye’s 3-D anatomy. OCT enables the surgeon to program and perform a comprehensive, computer-controlled surgical procedure. Also, using the first FDA approved femtosecond cataract laser to be used in the eye, Dr. Michaelos is able to provide better lens positioning of the replacement lens implant and provide a more gentle surgery. These technologies allow three of the most important parts of cataract surgery (the anterior capsulotomy, corneal incisions and lens fragmentation) to be accomplished safely and accurately before the patient even enters the operating room. Patients have asked for years, “When will you be able to remove my cataract by laser?” St. Michael’s Eye & Laser Institute is pleased to confirm this concept is now a reality for all those needing cataract surgery. Dr. Michaelos and the team at St.Michael’s Eye & Laser Institute are honored to have been selected as the first and only practice in Central Florida with the LenSx technology. They were
chose chosen for their extensive cataract experience and international reputation as leaders in the eye care field. We invite you to call and learn more about the LenSx laser and their Premium Lens cataract procedures. Call (727) 585-2200 now to schedule your consultation and learn about your options to eliminate cataracts. You may also visit their website at www.stmichaelseye. com to learn more. Dr. Michaelos started his practice in Largo and brought with him the skills needed for new technologies that were available for laser vision correction, improved techniques for cataract surgery and new cosmetic procedures. He continues to keep up to date with the latest technology through continuing education. Dr. Michaelos was one of the first ten physicians in Florida to implant the Multi-Focal lens, known as ReStor, making him one of the most experienced in the area. St. Michael’s Eye and Laser is the only center in North Florida to be honored as an Alcon Center of Excellence. His specialties include: General Ophthalmology, Refractive Lensectomy, Corneal Transplants, Cataract & Lens Exchange Surgeries and Cosmetic Procedures.
DECEMBER 2011
Senior Voice America
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Health FACTS
Edema: What is it? By Drs. Edward Izzo and Mark Alkire Advanced Vein and Vascular Solutions Edema is a medical term for that area of the body that has significant swelling. Swelling is normally in the lower extremities and this is from a collection of fluid. This fluid is called interstitial fluid, but it is determined by the imbalance that is demonstrated by the difference in the secretion and the impaired removal of fluid within the body. Although edema is now recognized to have many causes, an old-fashioned name for this cause was dropsy, which again referred to the abnormal accumulation of fluid beneath the skin. If an area of the skin has pitting edema, this is defined when pressure is applied to a small area and the indentation can persist for some time after the release of pressure. This is often seen at the level of the ankle, on to the top of the foot, as well as the lower calf. Pitting edema is very common and is often related to water retention. We recognize that often times pitting edema can be s result of heart failure or pregnancy, but it is very common with varicose veins. When varicose veins are the mechanism of this increased pressure also called hydrostatic pressure, the veins themselves can become dilated in that the fluid that normally traverses to the capillaries through small veins also called venules collects within the feet and often times cannot be relieved unless the foot is placed in an elevated position. This elevation allows the capillaries to allow the fluid to be evacuated and with time can often be resolved. However, when the foot is again placed into a dependent position, the fluid will re-accumulate.
It is not uncommon for venous hypertension to develop within the lower extremity, so that not only this pitting edema occurs, but discoloration and scarring of the subcutaneous tissue results in a permanent deformity. Varicose veins are commonly referred to with the veins in the legs, although varicose veins can occur elsewhere within the body. The most common position is in the lower extremities. With this, the veins do have leaflet valves that do prevent blood from flowing backwards, which is called reflux and it is common for the leg muscles to help the veins pump the blood to the heart, which is effective against the edema that results from gravity. If, however, the valves no longer meet properly or the valves do not work, this allows the blood to flow backwards and at this point, the veins Šbigstockphoto.com become enlarged. As the veins become larger, these varicose veins can become painful, especially when standing or walking. It is not uncommon for them to itch and scratching can even cause ulcers. Traditional surgical treatment has been vein stripping to remove the effected veins. However, now less invasive treatments are available, which include radiofrequency ablation, as well as Endovenous laser. If you have concerns regarding varicose veins, edema, swelling or pain, please do not hesitate to contact our offices. You may visit Dr. Alkire and Dr. Izzo at any of our four locations conveniently located in downtown Tampa, Town and County, Largo and Sun City Center. We accept most major insurances and our staff will be happy to answer any of your questions. In Pinellas, call (727) 871-8346 or (727) 871-VEIN; In Hillisborough, call (813) 258-2273 or (813) 258-CARE.
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DECEMBER 2011
Senior Happenings rant.com or call (727) 596-6282. Dec. 6
Capitol Classics Film Series Capitol Theatre (Ruth Eckerd Hall)
Dec. 2
First Friday Music Series Dowtown St. Petersburg There’s plenty of great food and fine dining in the area so come out and hang out with this diverse crowd. Enjoy the free live music in a unique, convenient and safe environment. What are you waiting for? Get downtown and Get down with the fun! Join the festivities between Second and Third streets on Central Avenue. For more information visit www.firstfridaystpete.com. Dec. 3
Create a Tabletop Tree Sunken Gardens Don’t have space for a big tree? Linda Worle shows how to make a holiday tabletop tree of succulent plants. Reservations required. Sunken Gardens is located at 1825 Fourth St. N, St. Petersburg. 11:30 a.m. For more information, call (727) 551-3102. Dec. 3
Guided Hike Brooker Creek Preserve Get up close to the environment in this guided nature hike. See how the land has changed over time and discuss the ecological footprints left by those changes. Wear close-toed shoes, bring water and a hat. Best for ages 6 and up. Brooker Creek Preserve is located at 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. 9 a.m. For more information, visit www.brookercreekpreserve.org or call (727) 453-6800. Dec. 3-4
Miniature Train Rides Largo Central Park Kids of all ages can ride the miniature trains of Largo Central Railroad. Largo Central Park is located at 101 Central Park Drive. For more information, visit www.lcrailroad.com or call (727) 587-6775. Dec. 5
French Cuisine Cafe Largo Expand your international cuisine repertoire in class that makes classic French dishes. Cafe Largo is located at 12551 Indian Rocks Road No. 18, Largo. 6:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.cafelargorestau-
This portion of the series features the 1953 drama/romance From Here to Eternity, starring Burt Lancaster, Montgomery Clift and Deborah Kerr. In the film set in 1941 Hawaii, a private is cruelly punished for not boxing on his unit’s team, while his captain’s wife and second in command are falling in love. Capitol Theatre (Ruth Eckerd Hall) is located at 405 Cleveland St., Clearwater. 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.rutheckerdhall.com or call (727) 791-7400. Dec. 6
SHINE Offers Medicare Seminars Clearwater Aging Well Center Clearwater’s Aging Well Center, in cooperation with the Florida Department of Elder Affairs agency SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders), will host seminars for older adults who have questions regarding their Medicare choices for the coming year. Pre-registration is recommended. Clearwater Aging Well Center is located at 1501 N Belcher Road, Clearwater. 2:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.clearwaterfl.com/gov/depts/parksrec/aging/index.asp or call (727) 562-3070. Dec. 7
Ostomy Support Group St. Anthony’s Hospital Get information that will help you find the tools to get back into an active life. Share your triumphs and knowledge with those who are now facing surgery. St. Anthony’s Hospital is located at 1200 Seventh Ave. N, St. Petersburg. 6:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.stanthonys.com or call (727) 418-0820.
try fee is $10 per car and prizes for Best in Show will be awarded for each decade. Spectator entry is free and all ages are welcome. Largo’s Car Show Series event is proudly sponsored by Imperial Palms Apartments. Largo Community Center is located at 400 Alt Keene Road, Largo. 11 a.m. For more information, visit www.largocommunitycenter. com or call (727) 518-3131. Dec. 13
Brain Tumor Support and Awareness Group Miles for Hope This monthly brain tumor support group gives emotional support, provides information about treatment options and gives helpful strategies on how to manage life with brain cancer. Miles for Hope is located at 1684 N Belcher Road, Clearwater. 5:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.milesforhope. org or call (727) 781-4673. Dec. 13
Capitol Classics Film Series Capitol Theatre (Ruth Eckerd Hall) The Bishop’s Wife stars Cary Grant, Loretta Young and David Niven. A bishop trying to get a new cathedral built prays for guidance. An angel arrives, but his guidance isn’t about fundraising. Capitol Theatre (Ruth Eckerd Hall) is located at 405 Cleveland St., Clearwater. 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.rutheckerdhall.com or call (727) 791-7400. Dec. 1-4
St. Petersburg Power and Sailboat Show Mahaffey Theater
Community professionals will discuss the elements of hoarding including cleanup, de-cluttering, social dynamics, psychological issues, family considerations, legal issues and estate liquidation. Call to register. Westminster Suncoast is located at 6909 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. St. S, St. Petersburg. 10 a.m. For more information, visit www.westminsterretirement.com or call (727) 432-0307.
The St. Petersburg Power & Sailboat Show, the largest boat show on the Gulf Coast, is set to sail into the Progress Energy Center for the Arts Mahaffey Theater Yacht Basin and Albert Whitted Park in St. Petersburg. The show will feature an impressive selection of power boats and sailboats in water and on land, including a 40,000-squarefoot tent housing all types of marine gear. Show-goers will find hundreds of power boats and sailboats including family cruisers, runabouts, fishing boats, magnificent sailing yachts, personal watercraft and much more. Mahaffey Theater is located at 400 First St S, St. Petersburg. For more information, visit www.showmanagement.com/st_petersburg/ event/ or call (800) 940-7642.
Dec. 10
Dec. 14
Holiday Car Show Largo Community Center
Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group The Fountains at Boca Ciega Bay
Dec. 9
Hoarder Symposium Westminster Suncoast
See some of the area’s most impressive hot rods and classic cars. Show off your own, or browse a showcase of the finest cars from the past several decades. Cars of all ages are welcome. En-
Families and caregivers coping with loved ones with Alzheimer’s can find answers, resources and support from peers and professionals.
The Fountains at Boca Ciega Bay is located at 1255 Pasadena Ave. S., St. Petersburg. 10 a.m. For more information, visit www.watermarkcommunities.com/bocaciegabay/ or call (727) 812-3930. Dec. 15
Dixieland Jazz Bilmar Beach Resort The Suncoast Dixieland Jazz Society sponsors Bobby Tess and the Dixie Chaps, performing from 7 to 9:30 p.m. at the Bilmar Beach Resort on Treasure Island. Admission is $7. For information, call (727) 522-6877. Dec. 17
Gulfport Art Walk Downtown Gulfport Browse works by more than 50 artists and crafters and enjoy live entertainment. Along Beach Boulevard, meet independent artists, local authors and entertainers. Live musicians, including Uniquely Original’s Community Drum Circle, the New Horizons Band, Caribbean Cowboy and others, will play. The Industrial Art Center offers glass-blowing mini classes during the Art Walk. For more information, visit gulfportflorida. us/gulfport-art-walk or call (727) 322-5217. Dec. 18
Dixieland Jazz Florida Botanical Gardens The Suncoast Dixieland Jazz Society sponsors Bobby Tess and the Dixie Chaps, performing from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at the Florida Botanical Gardens, Largo. Admission is $2. The concert is free. For information, call (727) 522-6877. Dec. 23
Holiday Lighted Boat Parade Tampa Convention Center Watch festively decorated boats spread holiday cheer as they motor and sail around Davis Island, Harbor Island and through Garrison Channel. Best viewed from Channelside, the SS American Victory Ship, Davis Islands, Harbor Island and the Convention Center. Tampa Convention Center is located at 333 S Franklin St., Tampa. 6:30 p.m. For more information, call (813) 274-8511. Dec. 27
Sleep Apnea Support Group St. Petersburg General Hospital A.W.A.K.E. St. Petersburg General Hospital is organizing a health awareness group for persons with sleep apnea, their family members and friends. The program is part of the American Sleep Apnea Association’s “Alert, Well And Keeping Energetic” network. groups bring individuals together in a format that fosters support, allows for an exchange of information and gives
DECEMBER 2011
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Senior Happenings assistance to those affected by sleep apnea. Monthly meetings will feature pertinent topics presented by medical professionals as well as the sharing of ideas and concerns. Together, our A.W.A.K.E. participants can help each other with similar interests, problems and solutions. St. Petersburg General Hospital is located at 6500 38th Ave. N, St. Petersburg. For more information, visit stpetegeneral.com or call (727) 341-4055. Sundays
Music Fest by the Bay The Pier Every Sunday The Pier hosts a new musical act for your listening pleasure at the Waterside Courtyard. Featuring local bands and musicians from a four county area with Top 40, Southern Rock, Classic Rock, Jazz and other types of music for your listening and/or dancing pleasure. The Pier is located at 800 Second Ave. NE, St. Petersburg. For more information, visit www.stpetepier.com or call (727) 821-6443. Sundays
Yoga in the Park Curtis Hixon Park A free one-hour yoga class in Curtis Hixon Park. Designed for all levels and be offered every Sunday evening at 6 p.m. Bring your mat and water bottle to the north side terraces. Come out and experience Yoga while watching the sunset over the city skyline in beautiful Curtis Hixon Park. Curtis Hixon Park is located at 600 N Ashley Drive, Tampa. 6 p.m. For more information, visit www.tampasdowntown.com or call (813) 221-3686. Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays
Basics Computer Classes Senior Services of Clearwater “Basics” class includes the basics of the computer itself, how it works, overview of the internet, email, how to use it, setting up your computer for favorites, computer health, networks and basic trouble shooting. Meets Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Senior Citizens Services of Clearwater is located at 1204 Rogers St., Clearwater. 10 a.m. For more information, call (727) 442-8104. Mondays and Wednesdays
Zumba Gold Hale Senior Activity Center Zumba Gold is specifically designed to bring the same exciting Latin and international dance rhythms from the original Zumba program to the active older adult population. It is very suitable for the true beginner and other populations that may need exercise
modifications. The benefits of the Zumba Gold program are multifaceted. There is a cardio element which helps strengthen the cardiovascular system. But because it’s also a weight-bearing exercise that helps with the bones. The Zumba Gold class is designed to keep people moving and help preserve, restore and improve range of motion. That in turn, can help with posture. Good posture not only helps you look better but can help make everyday activities easier to do. Hale Senior Activity Center is located at 330 Douglas Ave., Dunedin. For more information, visit bit.ly/93Z80n or call (727) 298-3299. Mondays and Fridays
Duplicate Bridge St. Pete Beach Community Center $1 per person. St. Pete Beach Community Center is located at 7701 Boca Ciega Drive, St. Pete Beach. For more information, visit www.spbrec.com or call (727) 363-9245. Mondays and Fridays
Tai Chi and Qi Gong Largo Community Center Learn this ancient relaxing form of exercise taught by Bob Ailes. This is a low impact exercise based Chinese Tai Chi (Yang style) principles. You’ll learn short forms, Nu Moom, Sh Kyu, QI Gong Healing/Anti-Aging. Largo Community Center is located at 400 Alt Keene Road, Largo. 10:30 a.m. For more information, visit www.largocommunitycenter.com or call (727) 518-3131. Monday, Wednesday, Friday 92
Forever Fit Largo Community Center A less intensive 45-minute workout for men and women that is safe and effective for those who want to be active and fit. Largo Community Center is located at 400 Alt Keene Road, Largo. 10 a.m. For more information, visit www.largocommunitycenter. com or call (727) 518-3131.
Mind strength and body strength combined equal Tai Chi. The discipline utilizes slow and graceful movements centering on mind and body control and is taught by an instructor from the Taoist Tai Chi Society. Hale Senior Activity Center is located at 330 Douglas Ave., Dunedin. 9:30 a.m. For more information, visit bit.ly/93Z80n or call (727) 298-3299. Wednesdays
Tai Chi Azalea Park & Center Lean to improve your level of energy, circulation, body coordination, flexibility and balance. Taught by instructor Hong Gu who has practiced Yang style of Tai Chi Chuan for more than 20 years. Azalea Park & Center is located at 1600 72nd St. N, St. Petersburg. 7 p.m. For more information, call (727) 893-7150. Thursdays
Spanish for Travel Largo Community Center Learn the basic vocabulary, pronunciation and common phrases to make your trip more enjoyable. Four week course, $30 resident/$37.50 non-resident. Largo Community Center is located at 400 Alt Keene Road, Largo. 6 p.m. For more information, visit www.largocommunitycenter.com or call (727) 518-3131. Thursdays
Chair Yoga Hale Senior Activity Center Seniors can us this series of low impact, gentle chair movements to maintain strength, have more flexibility and increase range of motion. Hale Senior Activity Center is located at 330 Douglas Ave., Dunedin. For more information, visit bit.ly/93Z80n or call (727) 812-4531. Thursdays
Aspiring Writers Workshop Largo Community Center
simple exercise Tools designed for all ages and abilities. These exercises, based on everyday movements that are natural and focus on the healthy longevity of the body and mind. The 21 Tools have creative, imaginative names, so they are easy to remember. They are simple to do at home. The movements are designed to be performed seated in a chair, yet they can be done on a bed, standing near or behind a chair, down on the floor, or standing. Almost anyone can do them, regardless of most physical conditions. Senior Citizens Services of Clearwater is located at 1204 Rogers St., Clearwater. 9 a.m. For more information, visit agelessgrace.com or call (727) 442-8104. Fridays
Art on the House Tampa Museum of Art Fridays are free at the Tampa Museum of Art from 4 to 8 p.m., courtesy of Hill Ward Henderson law firm. The 66,000-square-foot Cornelia Corbett Center building is currently showing its renowned collection of ancient world antiquities, as well as collections on American modernism and one on the realism movement. Tampa Museum of Art is located at 120 Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa. 4-8 p.m. For more information, visit www.tampamuseum.org or call (813) 274-8130. Fridays
Planetarium Shows St. Petersburg College Families with children ages 5 and older are invited to the “star theater” that can accurately simulate the night sky at any time or location on Earth. Weather permitting, the rooftop observatory will be open after the shows for kids to check out the stars and planets using their own eyes and telescopes. St. Petersburg College is located at 6605 Fifth Ave. N, St. Petersburg. 7 p.m. For more information, call (727) 341-4320.
Do you dream of writing the next great American novel? Maybe you aspire to be a reporter or perhaps you want to leave a legacy for your family, maybe you just want a new hobby, well this workshop is for you. Exciting hands on instruction and innovative teaching material to help you reach your dreams. Largo Community Center is located at 400 Alt Keene Road, Largo. 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. For more information, visit www.largocommunitycenter.com or call (727) 518-3131.
Movies in the park. Bring your blanket and a cooler. Enjoy a classic film every Friday. Pioneer Park is located at Main Street and Douglas Ave, Dunedin. 8 p.m. For more information, visit www.dunedingov.com or call (727) 812-4530.
Thursdays
Fridays and Saturdays
Tuesdays
Ageless Grace Exercise Senior Services of Clearwater
Sunset Cinema at Pier 60 Pier 60
Tai Chi Class Hale Senior Activity Center
Ageless Grace is a fitness and wellness program created by Denise Medved. The program consists of 21
Bring the family to Clearwater’s Pier 60 for a free film screening every Fri-
Tuesdays
Breakfast Bunch Hale Senior Activity Center Mease Manor Retirement Community invites all area seniors to gather with friends at this weekly breakfast of eggs, pancakes, sausage, bacon, fruit, coffee and juice. Hale Senior Activity Center is located at 330 Douglas Ave., Dunedin. 8:30 a.m. For more information, visit bit.ly/93Z80n or call (727) 298-3299
Fridays
Friday Night Movies Pioneer Park
Please See HAPPENINGS, Page 26.
Email your Senior Happenings to happenings@seniorvoiceamerica.com. The deadline for the next issue is the 15th.
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DECEMBER 2011
Entertainment Oy Vey in a Manger
David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts Dec. 2 The Kinsey Sicks, America’s favorite dragapella beautyshop quartet, present their hit holiday show Oy Vey in a Manger. With songs like “God Bless Ye Femmy Lesbians,” “Harried Little Christmas,” and “’Tis the Season to Drink Stoli,” they blend glorious fourpart harmonies with campy and outrageous humor. David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts is located at 1010 N MacInnes Place, Tampa. 7 p.m. For more information, visit www.tbpac.org or call (813) 229-7827. SLUT Energy Theory
David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts Dec. 4 Slut Energy Theory is a powerful, unsentimental and original work about incest and abuse that challenges concepts you’ve ever held about victimhood, survivor trauma and feminist energy and reconfigures them in a new ways. This is the story of a poor, uneducated and motherless black girl born in 1912 in rural Arkansas who is sexually abused by her father throughout her childhood. Living in a complete absence of positive role models or healthy sexual information, this girl has no capacity to know her life should be different. Slut Energy Theory offers us a disturbing, raw perspective on child abuse, a subject that’s not easy to talk about, watch or joke about and creates an evening that’s both theatrically entertaining and also meaningful to anyone watching whose lives have been touched by abuse. David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts is located at 1010 N MacInnes Place, Tampa. 4 p.m. For more information, visit www.tbpac.org or call (813) 229-7827. Trans-Siberian Orchestra
St Pete Times Forum Dec. 10 The holiday season’s most exciting spectacle Trans-Siberian Orchestra will return to the St. Pete Times Forum on Saturday, Dec. 10 for two unforgettable performances. The orchestra, known for its exceptional music set to a dazzling array of lights and pyrotechnics, will hold two shows, a matinee at 3 p.m. and an evening performance at 8 p.m. St Pete Times Forum is located at 401 Channelside Drive, Tampa. For more information, visit www.stpetetimesforum.com or call (813) 301-2500. Eleven Reflections on September
David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts Dec. 8-11
Eleven Reflections on September is a poetry/spoken word-based, multimedia performance on Arab American experience, Wars on/of Terror and “the constant, quiet rain of death amidst beauty” that each autumn brings in a post-9/11 world. This production is based on the series of poems Andrea Assaf has been writing since 2001, spanning the fall of the towers, the ongoing wars and the current revolutions sweeping through the Arab world. David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts is located at 1010 N MacInnes Place, Tampa. For more information, visit www.tbpac.org or call (813) 229-7827. Every Christmas Story Ever Told
Tarpon Springs Cultural Center Dec. 8-11 Instead of performing Charles Dickens’ beloved holiday classic for the umpteenth time, three actors decide to perform every Christmas story ever told and Christmas traditions from around the world, seasonal icons from ancient times to topical pop-culture and every carol ever sung. A madcap romp through the holiday season! Tarpon Springs Cultural Center is located at 101 S Pinellas Ave., Tarpon Springs. 8 p.m. For more information, visit www.tarponarts. org or call (727) 942-5605. A Christmas Story
David A. Straz Jr. Center Dec. 6-11 Based on the popular Christmas movie inspired by the writings of radio humorist Jean Shepherd, A Christmas Story, The Musical! chronicles young and bespectacled Ralphie Parker as he schemes his way towards the holiday gift of his dreams — a Red Ryder Action Air Rifle BB Gun. A kooky leg lamp, outrageous pink bunny pajamas, a maniacal department store Santa and a double-dog-dare to lick a freezing flagpole are just a few of the distractions that stand between young Ralphie and his Christmas wish. Produced by the film’s original Ralphie, Peter Billingsley, A Christmas Story, The Musical! is a perennial holiday classic that will entertain the whole family. For the official website, visit achristmasstorythemusical.com. David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts is located at 1010 N MacInnes Place, Tampa. For more information, visit www.tbpac.org or call (813) 229-7827. Christmas at the Pops
Mahaffey Theater Dec. 10-11 The Florida Orchestra presents voices of the Master Chorale. Join the orchestra in a holiday celebration, complete with sing-along Christmas carols. Mahaffey Theater is located at 400 First
St S, St. Petersburg. For more information, visit www.mahaffeytheater.com or call (727) 892-5798. Footloose
Masque Community Theatre Dec. 2-11 One of the most explosive movie musicals in recent memory bursts onto the live stage with exhilarating results. When Ren and his mother move from Chicago to a small farming town, Ren is prepared for the inevitable adjustment period at his new high school. What he isn’t prepared for are the rigorous local edicts, including a ban on dancing instituted by the local preacher, determined to exercise the control over the town’s youth that he cannot command in his own home. Footloose celebrates the wisdom of listening to young people, guiding them with a warm heart and an open mind. The Lightfoot Recreation Center is located at 10901 56th Street, Temple Terrace. For more information, visit masquetheatre.net or call (813) 506-6630. Shrek the Musical
Mahaffey Theater Dec. 16 Based on the Oscar®-winning DreamWorks film that started it all, brings the hilarious story of everyone’s favorite ogre to life on stage. Shrek the Musical is part romance, part twisted fairy tale and all irreverent fun for everyone. Mahaffey Theater is located at 400 First St S, St. Petersburg. 8 p.m. For more information, visit www.mahaffeytheater.com or call (727) 892-5798. Holiday Revue
Carrollwood Cultural Center Through Dec. 17 Celebrate the season with a revue of holiday songs, made fresh by some new arrangements and tied together with original stories of celebration, love and the occasional family disaster. No matter what holiday you celebrate, it will be the happiest, most musical Christmahannukwanzasolstice ever. Carrollwood Players is located at 4333-5 Gunn Highway, Tampa. For more information, visit www.carrollwoodplayers.org or call (813) 265-4000. Annie
Francis Wilson Playhouse Dec. 1-18 1933 and the depths of the Depression. Annie (11 years old) is living in the Municipal Orphanage on New York’s Lower East Side. Miss Hannigan is the principal in charge of the orphanage and needs no lessons on being compared to the wicked witch of the West. Annie decides to escape and try and find her parents. Naturally, this proves
unsuccessful. However, Grace Farrell, secretary to the millionaire Oliver Warbucks is searching for an orphan that she might invite back to the Warbucks’ household to celebrate Christmas. Francis Wilson Playhouse is located at 302 Seminole St., Clearwater. For more information, visit franciswilsonplayhouse.org or call (727) 446-1360. Miracle on 34th Street
St. Petersburg City Theatre Dec. 2-18 The holiday show that will make you believe… a magical event for the whole family. St. Petersburg City Theatre is located at 4025 31st St. S, St. Petersburg. For more information, visit www.splt.org or call (727) 866-1973. The Blue Room
Stageworks Theatre Dec. 2-18 A contemporary riff on the oncebanned La Ronde!, An exploration of lust, class and the power of sex. A sensation in London and New York, this scandalous play is full of erotic energy as one actor and one actress play all 10 partners in a continuous daisy chain of sexual liaisons. Funny. Razor sharp. Stageworks Theatre is located at 1120 E Kennedy Blvd., Tampa. For more information, visit stageworkstheatre.org or call (813) 2518984. Signs of Intelligent Life in the Universe
Gorilla Theatre Dec. 2-18 Jonelle Meyer is chameleon-like in this sidesplitting yet dramatic tour de force. Gorilla Theatre is located at 4419 N Hubert Ave., Tampa. For more information, visit www. gorillatheatre.com or call (813) 879-2914. The SantaLand Diaries
New American Theater Dec. 8-18 Based on the outlandish and true, chronicles of David Sedaris’ experience as Crumpet the Elf in Macy’s SantaLand display, this hilarious cult classic features comic encounters during the height of the holiday crunch. NPR humorist and best-selling author of When You Are Engulfed in Flames, Me Talk Pretty One Day and Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim, David Sedaris has become one of America’s pre-eminent humor writers. Recommended for mature audiences. New American Theater is located at 183 Second Ave. N, St. Petersburg. For more information, visit www.newamericantheater.org or call (813) 784-0536. My Mother’s Italian, My Father’s Jewish
Capitol Theatre (Ruth Eckerd Hall)
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Entertainment Dec. 17-18 Ah, the holidays. A time of peace, a time of joy, a time of loving and giving — a time of remembering why you left home in the first place! The award-winning writer and comedian who brought us two previous shows in this hilarious series brings us home to Grandma’s for a holiday dinner you won’t soon forget, one that may sound all too familiar. Steve Solomon is back with more outrageously funny stories of the eccentric characters in his family so many have come to know and love. It’s another laugh-filled evening of family chaos, Steve’s next installment in hilarity! Capitol Theatre (Ruth Eckerd Hall) is located at 405 Cleveland St., Clearwater. For more information, visit www.rutheckerdhall. com or call (727) 441-8868. St. Petersburg Opera: Seasonal Sparkle
Palladium Theater Dec. 19 The centerpiece of this festive performance will be a semi-staged peformance of highlights from Act 1 & 2 of La Boheme. Set in Paris on Christmas Eve, the Boheme scenes will feature principal singers chosen from our national auditions and will showcase our 35-piece orchestra, chorus and children’s chorus. Entertaining and educational, for novice and expert alike, the program will be rounded out with seasonal favorites such as Ave Maria, the Hallelujah Chorus, O Holy Night and portions of the Nutcracker ballet. Maestro Sforzini will guide the entire family through the world of opera with insightful commentary and his signature style. Palladium Theater is located at 253 Fifth Ave. N, St. Petersburg. For more information, visit www.stpeteopera.org or call (727) 822-3590. Holiday, Inc.
David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts Dec. 16-22 Hang on to your stockings as the season comes to life with Holiday, Inc. Filled with dazzling effects, stunning costumes, Broadway caliber performers, lovable characters, high energy dance numbers and a chart-topping song list, it will be the holiday show experience that is as close to the Big Apple as you can get. Visit www. holidayinctheshow.com for a preview. David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts is located at 1010 N MacInnes Place, Tampa. For more information, visit www.tbpac.org or call (813) 229-7827. My Fair Lady
Asolo Reperatory Theatre Through Dec. 23 It’s the musical by which all others are measured and with good reason— this Lerner and Loewe classic features
some of the most unforgettable songs and characters in musical theatre history. When linguistics professor Henry Higgins wagers that he can turn Cockney flower girl Eliza Doolittle into a proper lady, they undergo a transformation neither of them could have anticipated. Experience this glorious musical in an innovative and fresh production. Asolo Reperatory Theatre is located at 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. For more information, visit asolo.org or call (800) 361-8388. White Christmas
Manatee Players Dec. 2-23 Based on the beloved, timeless film, this heartwarming musical adaptation features 17 Irving Berlin songs and a book by David Ives and Paul Blake. Veterans Bob Wallace and Phil Davis have a successful song-and-dance act after World War II. With romance in mind, the two follow a duo of beautiful singing sisters en route to their Christmas show at a Vermont lodge, which just happens to be owned by Bob and Phil’s former army commander. The dazzling score features well known standards including Blue Skies, I Love a Piano, How Deep is the Ocean and the perennial favorite, White Christmas. Manatee Players is located at 102 Old Main St., Bradenton. For more information, visit www. manateeplayers.com or call (941) 748-5875. The Sensuous Senator
Early Bird Dinner Theater Through Dec. 23 Senator Douglas is running for President on a “morality” platform. When his wife Lois leaves to attend a conference in Chicago he does not hesitate to invite over his secretary and lover, Veronica. Finding her unavailable, he has an escort agency send voluptuous Fiona. All seems well until his elderly Congressional colleague and neighbor locks himself out and asks to spend the night. Then Congressman Jack Maquire drops in unexpectedly and Fiona, unsure who her client is, zeros in on him. Meanwhile, Veronica changes her plans and appears on the scene. Early Bird Dinner Theater is located at 200 South McMullen-Booth Road, Clearwater. For more information, visit www.earlybirddinnertheatre.com or call (727) 446-5898. An Ideal Husband
American Stage Through Dec. 24 “Scandals used to lend charm to a man — now they crush him.” In Oscar Wilde’s classic comedy, fate catches up to Sir Robert Chiltern when a mysterious woman produces a letter revealing a past misdeed. Suddenly, a choice must be made between public scandal and private shame. Insider trading,
government scandal, morality in politics… whoever thought a 120-year-old comedy could feel so new? American Stage is located at 163 Third St. N, St. Petersburg. For more information, visit www. americanstage.org or call (727) 823-7529. Moscow Ballet’s Nutcracker
Mahaffey Theater Dec. 26-27 The Moscow Ballet celebrates its 19th annual tour to 60+ cities across North America in 2011 with top awardwinning dancers. Eighty impeccably trained Russian dancers perform the Great Russian Nutcracker, the beloved Christmas story, with amazing leaps, spins and lunges. Set to Tchaikovsky’s famous score, this production features lavish costumes, charming larger-thanlife Russian puppets and nine fanciful backdrops, that are hand-painted and embellished with 3D effects — a must see for the whole family! Visit www. nutcracker.com for a preview. Mahaffey Theater is located at 400 First St S, St. Petersburg. For more information, visit www.mahaffeytheater.com or call (727) 892-5798. A Christmas Carol: The Musical
freeFall Theatre Dec. 8 through Jan. 1 An enchanting new musical adaptation of the Dickens classic is destined to become a Bay Area holiday tradition. With a soaring and inspirational score and faithful incarnations of all of the memorable characters, Dickens’ ghost story leaps from the page and delights with stunning theatricality, lush scenery and costumes and surprising special effects. Plan early to get your seats for this perfect holiday evening out. freeFall Theatre is located at 6099 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. For more information, visit www.freefalltheatre.com or call (727) 498-5205. Howie Mandel
Capitol Theatre (Ruth Eckerd Hall) Jan. 4 Actor and comedian Howie Mandel brings his stand-up comedy to town. The Toronto-born entertainer has been in show business for more than 30 years and is known for being a judge on America’s Got Talent and as host of Deal or No Deal. Capitol Theatre (Ruth Eckerd Hall) is located at 405 Cleveland St., Clearwater. For more information, visit www.rutheckerdhall. com or call (727) 791-7400. Lil Rev: Jews N Blues
Tarpon Springs Cultural Center Jan. 4-5
of songs, stories, humor and instrumental magic in “Jews N Blues.” This one-man show celebrates the Jewish contribution to American roots and blues music. From ragtime and jazz to rock and roll, Jews have made major creative contributions. Listen as Lil Rev weaves an amazing tale of Jews whose passion, persistence and creativity has helped to paint the American popular landscape with an unforgettable vocabulary of poetic lyric and melody. Singing his own compositions, historical anecdotes, a few choice covers and playing some romping blues instrumentals, Lil Rev strikes at the heart of America music and like the classic blues of long ago brings forth joy, sorrow and utter determination. Tarpon Springs Cultural Center is located at 101 S Pinellas Ave., Tarpon Springs. For more information, visit www.tarponarts.org or call (727) 942-5605. New Century Opera: Tristan and Isolda
Tarpon Springs Cultural Center Jan. 6 One of the greatest of all tragic love stories, Tristan and Isolda tells the ancient Celtic legend of an impossible love: the two title characters love each other desperately, in spite of the betrothal of Isolda — an Irish princess — to King Mark of Cornwall. Wagner’s glorious, romantic score brings the story to life with vividness and passion. Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center is located at 324 Pine St., Tarpon Springs. For more information, visit www.tarponarts.org or call (727) 942-5605. Sauce Boss Bill Wharton
Largo Cultural Center Jan. 6 Bill Wharton, “The Sauce Boss” mixes his own spicy Florida Blues and hot sauce right into the gumbo on stage and at the end of the show, everyone eats for free. Largo Cultural Center is located at 105 Central Park Drive, Largo. For more information, visit www.largoarts.com or call (727) 587-6751. Next to Normal
Florida Studio Theatre Through Jan. 7 The 2010 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. Set to a compelling contemporary score, “Next to Normal” is an emotional powerhouse of a musical about a family trying to take care of themselves and each other. Nominated for 11 Tony Awards. Florida Studio Theatre is located at 1241 North Palm Ave., Sarasota. For more information, visit www.floridastudiotheatre.org or call (941) 366-9000.
Join America’s favorite Jewish folk- Please See ENTERTAINMENT, Page 26. singer, Lil Rev, for a heartfelt evening
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Senior Voice America
DECEMBER 2011
TRAVEL
Vegas Never Fails to Please
By Evan Gold, Publisher Senior Voice America Las Vegas is well known for its exciting nightlife and shows, but it also offers a jackpot of great scenery and side trips. For many years we have traveled to Las Vegas for either conventions or short vacations. Generally, we spend most of our time on The Strip. This time we decided to get out and about. What we found was some great adventure. What is so funny about Las Vegas is that you can always find something new and different. And with the current downturn in the economy, you can find some very good deals. There is probably no time better than now to get out and explore Las Vegas. Here are some of the best deals and most fun we found.
The Shows Always a great place for some of the best and most lavish shows in America. Vegas again did not disappoint. • Elvis Cirque de Soleil: While my all-time favorite performer could not be there, the spirit of Elvis was. This was a truly fantastic show, and how they intertwined video footage of Elvis within the show was brilliant. All of the songs had Elvis singing them with live performers accompanying some of the songs. As usual the dancing was typical Vegas: perfection. And the acrobatics of Cirque also lived up to the standard they are known for. The most impressive aspects of the show were the quality of the music and the rarely seen video footage they played with some of the songs. This really is a show not to miss, especially if you are an Elvis fan. • Remembering the Caveman: Over the years I had seen this show advertised and never really paid much attention to it. This year my wife and I decided to venture in and see what it was all about. And what a treat it was. At first glance you might think this show is the anti-Roseanne show; however, it is more a hysterical comparison of what relationships are all about. Kevin Burke does a great job with this oneman show. And while you will laugh out loud on your own — you, as a couple, can really get something out of this at
the same time. “One of the best regular compliments that I have received is that this show helps couples improve their marriage” says Kevin Burke. Another must see show and worth every penny. The only disappointing part of the show is that it had to end. • Blue Man Group: Believe it or not, we had never seen this show either. In your face shows are all the rage right now, from Blue Man to Tony and Tina’s wedding to Stomp, there are so many shows that bring the entertainment right to your seat. Blue Man built their franchise on alternative musical instruments and expanded it with some unique comedy. The comedy did not disappoint at all. These three performers were brilliant in how they could impart perfect delivery with never uttering one word. As for the music that was interesting, but they lost me a little bit as some of the songs would go on for a while. I am glad we went, but can’t say it is for everyone. But it was entertaining.
customers over the years. This is a must when you are in town. Ask for the Fruit Bowl and plan on splitting it with two or more people. • Dal Toro: Very nice spot in the Palazzo, make sure you sit outside and people watch. You will easily feel like you are in Europe with the design of the decor and while you look right onto the strip you are never bothered by the traffic. The seafood matches the quality of the beef. • Buffets: For those of you who want volume and quality many of the hotels are now offering 24-hour buffet passes. The Caesars group of hotels offers a pass for $45 that gives you access to eight of their buffets for 24 hours. This is probably one of the best deals you will find. The World Buffet was just enormous and had more food than you could imagine. Very good value if you are looking to pack it in. Our favorite buffet was Caesars. While it did not have the variety of the World, it did have plenty of food and the quality was excellent. Imperial Palace: thumbs down.
Museums and Sights
Hotels
Dining Dining in Vegas has changed dramatically. In a place where so many people would hit the $2.99 buffets and be perfectly happy, Vegas has some of the finest dining in the world. And you can easily get whatever you want whenever you want. And as the economy boomed the restaurants flourished and the prices soared. But as the economy has turned the meal deals are everywhere. Here are a few of the places we tried. • The Peppermill: Easily one of my favorites, open 24 hours the Peppermill has great food for any meal. And the value is one of the best in the City. You need to get away from the chains and hotels and make your way to a favorite spot of some Vegas’ well-known celebrities. Stars like James Caan, Totie Fields and …… all have been regular
• The Mob museum: Couldn’t believe the amount of property they had from some of the biggest mobsters of the 20th Century. They actually had the living room of Benjamin “Bugsy” Siegel. If the mafia interests you this is a “do not miss.” • Atomic Energy Museum: In a word: Awesome. Off the strip, this museum is not as well known, but it is well worth a trip. Incredible information and one you need to drag the youngsters to. Vegas, has a longstanding role in atomic energy and they show it off here. There is so much information here this takes more than an hour, but is well worth it. • Gold Mine Tour: Pink jeep tours is one of the best tour operators in the area and they can get you to so many great locations. We chose a tour that was a bit closer than the Grand Canyon, which they can take you to. While this gold mine is not operating, the owners give you an amazing tour of a gold mine with some interesting history to it. This is also the site of the filming of a number of movies, including 2000 Miles to Graceland. This is about a four-hour trip and well worth the time and cost.
The Peppermill Fruit Bowl • The Titanic: Nice assortment of relics, very interesting and impactful. Shows what happens when you let companies dictate safety measures. Worth the price of admission.
Right now with an abundance of hotels you are hard pressed to find a better time to visit Las Vegas. We stayed at Caesars Palace and just can’t say enough positive about the resort. It has everything and is right in the middle of the strip, which gives you easy access to so many places and not far from the monorail. The monorail is a great way to easily get along the strip and cost efficient. With Caesars luxury and rich Vegas history and tradition there is a sense of the historic Vegas that so many people miss. Or if you just want some time to spend by the pool you will have to choose which of the four you want and each one is more spectacular than the other. One thing to note when choosing your hotel is look carefully at the nicer hotels, there are some really great deals from many of the nicer hotels.
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Senior Voice America
IRRATIONAL, Continued from Page 1. and other obligations our government has incurred, to the tune of more than $107 trillion dollars — that make it hard for me to believe that our problems are behind us, and it will be clear sailing in the future. For the next year to 18 months, I am “cautiously optimistic.” expect to see our markets to continue on an upward trend, but I don’t agree with the “great” enthusiasm we are seeing on TV. I would say it is a little irrational and maybe even a touch of “Irrational Exuberance.” The reason I believe the markets will rise in the short term is not that the financial markets are repaired or that our government has finally decided to follow a path of fiscal responsibility, it is simply because the Federal Reserve has decided to pump hundreds of billions of dollars into the economy this year, and it can’t help but buoy the markets in the short term. Additionally, the fact that next year, 2012, is an election year, I expect to see further stimulus and therefore the potential for more growth. What’s going to happen as the election approaches or shortly after the presidential elections, all bets are off. Our country’s current debt load and the future tax increases it will take to pay off this massive debt, have to hurt our economic growth and our government’s fiscal irresponsibility will most likely come back to haunt us sometime soon. Our “stimulus” programs will probably result in high inflation rates, and we now have the ingredients for a “Carter like” period with high inflation and a slow economy. They called this” stagflation” and it was a very challenging period for the United States. I remember it well: my father was a senior engineer with Honeywell and worked in the defense industry. Honeywell had to make cuts, and my father was unemployed for a significant period of time. One of my concerns is that the analysts are a little too bullish and seem to be ignoring many of the warning signs. I do believe that in the long term we
will land on a more solid foundation, we always have, but for the time being there are still so many problems out there that could cripple a sustainable recovery. States and municipalities are facing a severe budget crises, and we don’t know how the federal government will deal with this. Will they bail them out like they did the banks and AIG? If they do, what will that mean to our deficits and future taxes? If they don’t what will happen to the markets? We just went through the worst recession in 80 years with more than 8 million jobs lost. Until we see people going back to work in significant numbers and a new attitude toward spending I do not think we will see a sustainable recovery. The environment clearly is improving, but all the evidence points to a rebound that’s likely to remain choppy with several challenging years in front of us. How should you deal with the current uncertainty? If you are one of our clients you understand the emphasis I place on keeping your costs in check and securing the income you need to live on. There are still great yields out there and strategies you can employ to guarantee that you will not outlive your life savings. Remain cautious; and if you are retired, minimize any risks to the money you may need to live on. Position yourself to take advantage of short-term growth while maintaining a cautious approach to the markets. We never know when the next downturn will come, so keep your financial plan “rational” and don’t ride the rollercoaster of “irrational exuberance.” Put your safety nets in place and carefully take advantage of the growth we may see over the next year or so. For a second opinion on your portfolio, give us a call at (800) 989-1427 or email us at info@harwoodfinancialgroup.com. We will provide you with a complimentary consultation and show you our very comprehensive and conservative approach to securing your financial future.
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GREAT AMERICAN NOVEL, Continued from Page 1.
Real Book Stores Real bookstore are disappearing fast. Look around and you’ll see some independent booksellers and used book stores. These (and libraries) are like catherdrals for the serious book lover. Keep reading this article and you’ll find a list of book stores in our area. We hope you will visit some of them over the holidays. Email me editor@seniorvoiceamerica.com if I’ve left any off. For decades my favorite bookstore has been Haslam’s at 2025 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. Haslam’s has a great mix of new books, used books and collectible books; and it’s a favorite stop for touring authors. Jack Kerouac who spent his final years in Gulfport — just a few miles away — used to visit Haslam’s and rearrange the shelves so his books were more prominently displayed. Legend has it the Bard of the Beatniks haunts Haslam’s today. His books are said to fall from the shelves at times or be mysteriously rearranged. My Tampa friends tell me Inkwood Books at 216 S. Armenia is another lo-
cally owned, independent bookseller with a great collection. The great thing about these independent shops is you never know what you will find till you visit. All around the Tampa Bay Area, there are bookstore chains like Barnes & Noble and Books-A-Million. Walmart and Target also have growing book departments. While brick-and-mortar bookstores may be disappearing, those that re-
My prized possession: The cover of my first-edition copy of “For Whom the Bell Tolls.” main offer a nice selection, and they are usually paired with a place to read and enjoy coffee, tea and other light fare. Bookstores are a great place to meet friends or work if you have a mobile job.
Buying Books On Line In addition to big retailers like Target, Walmart and Barnes & Noble, which carry the latest books, Amazon.com has quietly emerged as the “world’s largest” bookseller. From any computer or connected mobile device, you can visit Amazon.com and order virtually any book. In addition to current titles, Amazon’s network of resellers offer used books (as well as
DECEMBER 2011
used CDs). Amazon.com is probably the biggest reason we’re seeing the decline of local booksellers. Amazon.com is like TV to the movie industry or Apple’s iTunes for the music industry. It’s a game changer. If you have a smartphone like Apple’s iPhone or some Android phones, you can actually scan the barcode on a book you see while your out shopping. You’ll know immediately if Amazon has it in stock, the price and you can order it right there from your phone, getting it shipped to your home or elsewhere if it’s a gift. Shopping like this can be done with more than books. For instance, if you have grandkids who live elsewhere, you can scan the barcode of a toy at your local Walmart and have Amazon deliver it gift wrapped to their door. Barnes & Noble is another big online bookseller. BN.com has a wonderful selection and prices comparable to Amazon. The two sites compete a lot; and you can often find better prices or free shipping by comparing the two.
also the priciest starting at $499. There’s a lot you can do with an iPad and most users are very pleased with it. Amazon’s Kindle starts at $79 and it’s the best if you do a lot of reading outdoors. Kindle uses a process called e-ink that makes it the best read in direct sunlight. It’s also got great battery life. The new Kindle Fire and the Color Nook are both designed to compete with iPad. They start at about $200. I’ve had an iPad for about 18 months, and I love it. I’m also hoping to get a basic Kindle for Christmas — just because it’s lighter and better for reading outdoors. All three devices and booksellers offer the latest books instantly. Classics are available, too. Many of the classics are free. E-books cost about $10 to $20 for a new book. Prices are about half what you would pay for the same book in hardback. If you’re a book-a-month reader, an e-reader will pay for itself
Apple’s iPad 2 (right) will run Kindle and NOOK software in addition to thousands of other apps. iPad can almost replace a laptop for many people. The latest model offers video chat and much more. My wife and I make a lot of purchases on-line. We have family throughout the U.S. and Canada, and we probably buy 90 percent of all non-clothing gifts on-line. For us, paying a $75 annual fee at Amazon to be a “Prime” member turns out to be a good deal. With the Prime membership, all eligible purchases are shipped free via twoday service. There are other benefits, too, but it really is convenient to scan something while you’re shopping and have it show up at your home in two days. Shopping across borders is easy, too. You can order off the retailer’s site in Canada (or whatever country you like) and pay with a U.S. credit card. The item is shipped, and you do not have to hassle with Customs forms.
Barnes & Noble offers the NOOK reader (right). The latest NOOK is color and offers games and other applications in addition to books and video.
E-Readers Both Amazon and Barnes & Noble are also in the e-book business. Apple is, too. Amazon offers the Kindle reader, Barnes & Noble has the NOOK and Apple has the iPad, which is an e-reader and much more. All three devices can be bought on-line or at retailers like Target and Walmart. If you’re thinking of getting an ereader, I recommend trying all three to see what you like better. The iPad has the most features — it’s almost as functional as a laptop computer — and it will actually let you read the books you buy from Amazon and Barnes & Noble. It’s
pretty quickly. All e-readers also have benefits for people with vision issues. First, the text can be scaled up or down to a size that makes reading comfortable. Also, some books can be read aloud by the device to let you listen to the book if your eyes get tired. This feature is not the same as an audiobook (see below); it’s a computer voice reading to you. It’s a nice feature, but some find it a little cold and hard to follow. Apple, Amazon and Barnes & Noble
Please See GREAT AMERICAN NOVEL, Page 24.
DECEMBER 2011
Senior Voice America
Page 23
Dollars and sense
Five Steps for a Smart Financial Start in 2012 By Wayne Altman Ameriprise Financial If you pay attention to the news, you’ve seen governments around the world struggling to balance their budgets and stay afloat. Ironically, the basics of balancing the income and expenses of a country are not that different from what you do with your own finances — and it can be just as much of a challenge. But a well-planned budget is an invaluable tool if you want to improve your financial position. Here are five things you can do now to make setting and reaching your 2012 financial goals a lot easier.
If it’s clear you don’t have sufficient money coming in each month, consider ways to up your income. Do you need to work overtime, go after that promotion, pursue a new career or get a second job? If you’re stuck where you are, circle back to your spending habits. You may need to downsize your house or car, stop eating out or cut up your credit cards. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the ideas you generate when you take the time to examine the numbers with a clear head and a critical eye.
Step One: Organize Your Bills Start by gathering all of your monthly, quarterly and annual financial obligations. Next, look back through your check register or your bank statements and collect data of all the products and activities that drain money from your wallet. Then list and categorize these expenses. Standard categories include food, clothing, general household, transportation, entertainment and so on. Saving for various things should be on the list, too, since it takes money out of circulation, if only for the time being. You’ll be ahead of the game if your budget accounts for “unplanned” expenses such as a visit to the emergency room (now an especially costly adventure, thanks to high deductible medical plans) and car or home repairs. While you may not be able to name what financial burden will arise in the next 12 months, you can be sure something will cause you to part suddenly with some of your hard-earned money. If you have cash set aside for just those occasions, then you can pay the expense and avoid a crisis. If not, you risk defaulting on other obligations, damaging your credit and causing all too much stress in your life.
Step Two: Scrutinize the Numbers To create a realistic budget, examine and adjust the expenses you’ve identified above against your take-home pay. Highlight areas that are out of whack. One way to evaluate the numbers is to break down your budget categories by percentages. Ideally, your housing costs should not exceed 30 percent; transportation expenses should not exceed 20 percent; and food should fall under 15 percent of your total expenses. Look online for guidelines and see where your spending exceeds recommendations.
Step Three: Fix What You Don’t Like To change your financial reality, set realistic and stretch goals that will improve your bottom line. When you identify a target — for example, to trim $100 from your monthly food budget — break it down. What does this mean for you on a daily or weekly basis? Maybe you need to buy items in bulk, purchase off-brand, clip more coupons or employ some other cost-saving strategy. Be creative and rise to the challenge.
Step Four: Follow Your Budget There’s no point in making a budget if you don’t intend to act on it. Keep your budget in front of you and document your expenses on a daily basis. Then adjust your spending as necessary. Monitoring your budget this way can make your money more manageable and give you the feeling of being in control.
Step Five: Check in with a Financial Advisor There are books and websites that can teach you the finer points for preparing and following a budget. But there’s nothing quite like being in the presence of someone who can share their financial knowledge. Consult a financial advisor for an honest assessment of your financial health and take advantage of insights and strategies that can help you improve your finances in 2012 and beyond. Wayne T. Altman is a Financial Advisor with Ameriprise Financial, 5426 Bay Center Drive, Suite 200, Tampa, FL 33609, Phone: (813) 868-8713. He is licensed/registered to do business with U.S. residents in the states of Florida, Indiana, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Texas. The views expressed here reflect the views of Ameriprise Financial as of Sept. 14, 2011. These views may change as market or other conditions change. Actual investments or investment decisions made by Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates, whether for its own account or on behalf of clients, will not necessarily reflect the views expressed. This information is not intended to provide investment advice and does not account for individual investor circumstances. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index (S&P 500), an unmanaged index of common stocks, is frequently
used as a general measure of market performance. The index reflects reinvestment of all distributions and changes in market prices, but excludes brokerage commissions or other fees. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. International investing involves increased risk and volatility due to potential political and economic instability, currency fluctuations and differences in financial reporting and accounting standards and oversight. Risks are particularly significant in emerging markets. There are risks associated with fixed income investments, including credit risk, interest rate risk and prepayment and extension risk. In general, bond prices rise when interest rates fall and vice versa. This effect is usually more pronounced for longer-term securities. Investment products, including shares of mutual funds, are not federally or FDIC-insured, are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed by any financial institution and involve investment risks including possible loss of principal and fluctuation in value. Diversification helps you spread risk throughout your portfolio, so investments that do poorly may be balanced by others that do relatively better. Diversification does not assure a profit and does not protect against loss in declining markets. Brokerage, investment and financial advisory services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. Some products and services may not be available in all jurisdictions or to all clients.
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Senior Voice America
GREAT AMERICAN NOVEL, Continued from Page 22. also sell audiobooks, which is the new term for what we used to call books on tape. Audiobooks are released like ebooks. You download them. They can be abridged or unabridged. They can sometimes cost more than the hardback book, depending on the title, author and presenter. Books are often read by the author, but they are also presented by professional actors. Audiobooks are great for driving, exercising and even relaxing with your eyes closed. The devices offered by Apple, Amazon and Barnes & Noble will also play audiobooks. E-readers can also replace magazines and newspapers. Just as you subscribe to Time or Sports Illustrated, you can get the on-line version. Many magazines give you the downloadable version free with your print subscription, others offer pricing for download only. If you like reading magazines, you’ll probably want the more expensive color e-reader or an iPad. Audiobooks are also available on CDs or even cassettes. Many libraries offer these formats as well. Buying used CDs is usually hassle free. As long as they are in good condition, they should play for you. Amazon often has used audiobooks on CD for sale. With a computer, you can usually copy CDs to your e-reader or other de-
vice. Apple’s iTunes is a free and easy application for doing this. Most iPad users will want a PC-based version of iTunes anyway to help back up the device. Macintosh computers come with iTunes already installed. Another big advantage of e-readers is you will never have to read alone. Since thousands of people all over the world are reading the same book as you, you can see “popular highlights” share your highlights or even discuss the book on line. Highlights are just like an old-fashioned highlighter, but it’s on the device. You can even pick your colors… pink, blue, yellow, etc. You can share your highlights or see what other have shared. There are times you can even have online chats with an author. You can share highlights with your local book club, make notes… all the wonderful things you’re used to doing with markers, post-its and even dogears. I really like the built-in dictionaries in e-readers. If I run across a word I don’t know, I can highlight it, and the dictionary will open in a bubble, telling me the definition of the word. E-readers also have games and some will let you store family photos as well. The newer ones have video and music, too.
DECEMBER 2011
Book Clubs
Wilson’s Book World
Oprah’s Book Club touched off a trend in the country, making reading a social occasion. You can find a lot of great recommendations at www.oprah.com or why not start your own book club in your neighborhood, at your church or synagogue, or at work? Visit www.my-bookclub.com and you can get advice on how to start your own club or find one near you that’s open to new members. Either way, reading and discussing a book with friends is a great way to work out your brain, learn something new and enjoy the company of friends.
2394 Dr. M L King St N • (727) 896-3700
Area Book Stores
1413 Cleveland St. • (727) 443-7444
St. Petersburg
Barnes & Noble 2501 Tyrone Blvd. • (727) 384-5200
www.barnesandnoble.com Books At Park Place
www.wilsonsbookworld.com Gulfport
Small Adventures Bookshop 3107 Beach Blvd. S • (727) 347-8732
www.smalladventuresbookshop.com Clearwater
Barnes & Noble 23654 US 19 N • (727) 669-1688
www.barnesandnoble.com Blue Moon Books Paperback Palace 1293 S Missouri Ave. • (727) 461-2160 Tampa
Almost New Book Store 3637 Henderson Blvd. • (813) 873-8906
3619 49th St. N • (727) 388-9093
Barnes & Noble
Haslam’s Book Store
11802 N Dale Mabry Hwy (813) 962-6446
2025 Central Ave. • (727) 822-8616
www.haslams.com Lighthouse Books
www.barnesandnoble.com Barnes & Noble
1735 First Ave. N • (727) 822-3278
213 N Dale Mabry Hwy (813) 871-2228
Page After Page Inc
www.barnesandnoble.com
3737 16th St. N • (727) 520-1232
Please See GREAT AMERICAN NOVEL, Page 29.
DECEMBER 2011
Senior Voice America
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Page 26
Senior Voice America HAPPENINGS, from Page 17. day and Saturday. Bring a blanket or low sitting chair and watch a movie on the jumbo screen. Weather permitting. Pier 60 is located at 10 Pier 60 Drive, Clearwater Beach. For more information, visit www.sunsetsatpier60.com or call (727) 434-6060. Saturdays
Hot Yoga Highland Recreation Complex and Family Aquatic Center Experience muscle tone development, release of toxins and increased weight loss with Highland’s Hot Yoga Class. Performed in a room heated to 85 degrees, participants benefit from increased flexibility as they develop strength, balance and range of motion. Highland Recreation Complex and Family Aquatic Center is located at 400 Highland Ave. NE, Largo. For more information, visit www.largo.com/department/ division.php?fDD=13-255 or call (727) 518-3016. Saturdays
Guided Hike Weedon Island Preserve Hike through coastal mangroves and upland ecosystems. Learn about the coastal environment and the early residents of this area. Bring water and hat. Recommended for ages six and older. Weedon Island Preserve is located at 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg. For more information, visit weedonislandpreserve.org or call (727) 453-6500. Every Day
Silver and Gold Network Largo Community Center Are you in need of a friend or are new to the Community Center and do not know your way around? Let us help you with our wonderful programs at the Community Center. Call Eileen at (727) 518-3131 for more information. Largo Community Center is located at 400 Alt Keene Road, Largo. For more information, visit www.largocommunitycenter.com or call (727) 518-3131.
DECEMBER 2011
ENTERTAINMENT, from Page 19. Million Dollar Quartet
David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts Jan. 3-8 Million Dollar Quartet is the smash hit Broadway musical, inspired by the true story of the famed recording session that brought together rock ‘n’ roll icons Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins for the first and only time. On Dec. 4, 1956, these four young musicians were gathered together by Sam Phillips, the “Father of Rock ’n’ Roll” at Sun Records in Memphis for what would be one of the greatest jam sessions of all time. Million Dollar Quartet brings that legendary night to life with an irresistible tale of broken promises, secrets, betrayal and celebrations featuring timeless hits including “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Fever,” “That’s All Right,” “Sixteen Tons,” “Great Balls of Fire,” “I Walk the Line,” “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On,” “Who Do You Love?,” “Matchbox,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” “Hound Dog” and more. David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts is located at 1010 N MacInnes Place, Tampa. For more information, visit www.tbpac.org or call (813) 229-7827. Aesop’s Fables
Ruth Eckerd Hall Jan. 7-14 Classic fables come to life! For centuries, the wit and wisdom of Aesop’s fables have been passed down from one generation to the next. In a lively storytelling style that invites interactive participation, Aesop’s Fables brings to life familiar favorites like The Lion and the Mouse, The Hare and the Tortoise and The Fox and the Grapes along with tales not so familiar. Fun and chock full of imagination, Aesop’s Fables is a perfect introduction to some of the world’s most cherished stories and to the magic of live theater! Ruth Eckerd Hall is located at 1111 N. McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater. For more information, visit www.rutheckerdhall.com or call (727) 791-7400. Odd Couple
Carrollwood Players Jan. 6-28
Florence Unger and Olive Madison, that is, in Neil Simon’s hilarious contemporary comic classic: the female version of The Odd Couple. Instead of the poker party that begins the original version, Ms. Madison has invited the girls over for an evening of Trivial Pursuit. The Pidgeon sisters have been replaced by the two Constanzuela brothers. But the hilarity remains the same. Carrollwood Players is located at 43335 Gunn Highway, Tampa. For more information, visit www.carrollwoodplayers.org or call (813) 265-4000. Upstairs/Downstairs at the Tampa Bay
Henry B. Plant Museum Sundays Theatrical, single-character vignettes bring turn-of-the-century hotel staff members and guests to life. The rotating list of characters includes Maggie Stroud (1920 Laundress), Arthur Schleman (1895 Hunting and Fishing Guide), Otis Freedman (1905 Head Waiter), Edith Roosevelt (1901 First Lady), Henry A. Dobson (1898 Spanish-American War Soldier) and Richard Harding Davis (1898 war correspondent/novelist). Henry B. Plant Museum is located at 401 W Kennedy Blvd., Tampa. For more information, visit www.plantmuseum.com or call (813) 254-1891. A Thousand Cranes
Ruth Eckerd Hall Dec. 3-10 This is the true story of Sadako Sasaki, just 2 years old when an atom bomb exploded over Hiroshima and 12 when she was afflicted with radiation sickness. Legend claims a person who folds a thousand paper cranes will be granted a wish. Sadako began folding cranes, wishing to be well, wishing an atom bomb would never be dropped again. Before her death, she folded 644 cranes. Her friends and classmates folded 356 more to make a thousand. Her spirit of hope and strength continues to inspire young people around the world to work for peace. Ruth Eckerd Hall is located at 1111 N. McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater. For more information, visit www.rutheckerdhall.com or call (727) 791-7400.
Unger and Madison are at it again.
Every Tuesday & Thursday 11:00 Am To Noon on 1250 am WHNZ with Your Host Evan Gold
DECEMBER 2011
Senior Voice America
Page 27
HOLIDAY GIFTS
Impress Your Guests with Holiday Etiquette 101
Five Ideas for Practical Yet Fun Gifts for Kids
©bigstockphoto.com
HOLIDAY TIME
You’ve spent the entire day in the kitchen cooking the perfect holiday meal. But it’s an hour before your guests arrive and you find yourself standing in front of the table listening to that little nagging voice inside your head. Do the water glasses go to the right or left? What side does the knife go on? Should you go ahead and put food on the table before guests arrive, or wait until everyone gets there? “We hear from so many panicked people this time of year looking for a crash course in how to set the table and proper manners,” says etiquette coach Jill Slatter. “Most of us are stretched so thin juggling work, school and home that we don’t have time to sit down together for a proper meal except at the holidays and then the pressure is on to be perfect.” Slatter is the etiquette expert for Replacements, Ltd., billed as the world’s largest retailer of old and new china, silver, crystal and collectibles. Based on their most frequently asked questions, Slatter shares a holiday etiquette 101 crash course that’s sure to help you impress your guests.
Set the Perfect Table Forks to the left, knives and spoons to the right. The sharp side of the knife blade should be turned toward the dinner plate. Only include utensils in your place setting that will be used for the courses you are serving. “If you’re not serving soup or salad, you certainly don’t want an extra spoon or fork in your place setting,” Slatter says. “Not only will those get in the way and create extra work for you, the extra utensils may confuse your guests.” The bread plate goes on the left of the dinner plate, glasses on the right. Wait to pour. Water glasses should be the only glasses filled before your guests arrive. Iced tea, wine and other beverages should be poured once everyone is seated. Wine glasses should be filled halfway, not to the rim. Salad and bread should be the only food on the table when your guests arrive.
Are You the Hostess with the Mostest? Remember, the hostess always sits last. Passing isn’t just in football. Always pass food around the table counter clockwise to the right and refrain from serving yourself first. Always
pass the salt and pepper as a set, even if you’re only asked for one. Can your guests see each other? Sure those flowers you spent hours arranging for the centerpiece are pretty, but they will only get in the way if your guests have to crane their necks to see each other. Make sure your guests can look over any table adornments.
Be a Gracious Guest “There is nothing more disruptive than a cell phone ringing at the dinner table,” says Slatter. “Turn your phone on vibrate, or better yet, don’t even bring it to the table. Holiday gatherings mark the time to enjoy the company of the people you are with, rather than ignore them by chatting with someone who’s not even there.” Wait for the signal. Your hosts will let you know when it’s okay to begin eating. They may offer a blessing or statement or perhaps start by passing a dish. If you’re not sure which utensil to use with each course, start on the outside and work in toward the dinner plate. If you need to excuse yourself temporarily, gently place your napkin on your chair to indicate you will be coming back. Signify you’re finished with the meal by placing your napkin to the left of the dinner plate and your fork and knife side by side diagonally across your plate with the sharp side of the knife blade facing inward and the fork tines up. “Another big question we hear concerns what to do if you accidently break a piece of the host’s dinnerware,” adds Slatter. “You should certainly offer to replace the broken piece especially if it has sentimental value for the host or hostess.” Slatter says don’t lose hope if your host doesn’t know the name of the pattern or the manufacturer; you can always take advantage of Replacements’ free pattern identification service. If you’re still in doubt about holiday etiquette 101, help is just a mouse click away. You can watch more of Slatter’s tips on Replacements’ YouTube channel. You can also find cheat sheets of place setting guides diagramming how to set the table for various meals at the company’s website, www.replacements. com.
The holidays are great times to be a kid. But as any parent can attest, gifts sometimes end up gathering cobwebs. Here are five things to consider as you search for a gift that will get a lot of use. • Consult with the parents. It won’t ruin the surprise if you take the time to find something that he or she could truly use. Parents know their children best. • Books or magazine subscriptions. Books are a great gift. A subscription to a magazine carries the added bonus of being a new gift every time it arrives. • Add some fun to clothing gifts. Throw in a fun clothing item with something more practical. You can never go wrong with a pair of jeans for the utility aspect and then a fun T-shirt from your recipient’s favorite TV show or movie. • The gift of tickets. Tickets to a kid-friendly concert or another event are a great option. You could also opt for a pass to a science museum or zoo. Personalize it by offering to take the child somewhere fun. • Give something that’s alive. Not a cat or dog, but a fun and unique plant can be a fascinating gift. Pairing this with a child-friendly book about the type of plant you are giving or gardening in general. By finding a practical gift that the child in your life is sure to love, you’ll make sure that the happiness you’re hoping to give continues long after the holidays are over.
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Senior Voice America
DECEMBER 2011
COMMUNITY
We have one of the finest Cancer Centers in the country right in our back
Making a Lasting Donation
cash is deductible up to 50 percent of your adjusted gross income and an amount over the 50% threshold can be carried over up five additional years. • Securities—Stocks or other investments that have increased since you purchased them and that you’ve owned for more than a year can be a substantial gift with a low net cost to you. You receive the deduction at today’s market value and don’t pay capital gains tax on the increased value.
©bigstockphoto.com
It’s that time of year when most Americans that give to charities start thinking hard about where to give a donation. You want to ensure the money will go to a cause that is important to you, the funds will be used wisely and you want to feel like you can help make a difference, but where can you achieve those goals. One of the first questions to consider is whether an organization is “Needy” or “Worthy”? And in reality, part of that question solves itself… all charitable organizations need donations to survive and continue to do the work they pride themselves in. But are they worthy? When choosing a charity to become involved with, one has to determine if they are truly worthy of your hard earned money. Do they help people in your community? Do you have friends or family members who have benefited from the work of the charity? Is the charity a large employer in the area so the money stays local? Have you heard good things about the organization? Many local organizations rely on financial support to continue their missions. Here are a couple that serve us well in Tampa Bay.
yard in the Moffitt Cancer Center. “Year-end gifts help us uphold the yearround commitment we make to our patients to find a cure for cancer,” says Susan Stern, the vice president of the Moffitt Cancer Center Foundation. In Pinellas County, we have The Pinellas Education Foundation. “Whether you provide your time, money or knowledge, giving back to the community can have a profound effect” says Robin McGowan, vice president at
• Life Insurance—There are many ways to give through life insurance. Policies that are no longer needed can be gifted. You may be able deduct the replacement value on paid up policies, or deduct the premiums for a policy you donate to your charity.
the Pinellas Education Foundation. “We exist to enhance the educational opportunities in Pinellas County, but could not do it without the generous hearts and minds of those who are helping us create a lasting legacy through education. Providing a good education is vital to sustaining and ensuring future prosperity in our communities. We are pleased to be able to play a part in that.”
• IRA’s—This may be the last year for this type of donation. A law enacted in 2006 allows individuals age 70 ½ or older to transfer up to $100,000 directly from an IRA to certain charitable organizations without creating federal income taxes. This may not be for everyone, but if you don’t rely on the income your IRA pays out, discuss this with your financial advisor to see if this would be a good choice for you.
And finally, we have always been big fans of Meals on Wheels in both Pinellas and Hillsborough. When expressing their thanks for past donors support, Ed O’Carroll, President of Meals on Wheels of Tampa says “Your donations allow us to expand our service, to reach more people in the Tampa community and touch the lives of the homebound and seniors.”
• Time—And as always while not deductible, yet still very rewarding, there may be something you can do for the charity. For many of us time is our most valuable asset and by volunteering at the charity near and dear to your heart you can help them tremendously.
Once you have narrowed down the charity or charities of your choice the questions are: When should I give? How do I give? What can I give? What is the best thing to give tax wise? Here a few examples, but most charities will have staff that can help, and this article is not intended to be tax or legal advice so it is important to consult your CPA or Attorney for detailed answers or what is best for you. When? If you itemize your deductions, then your gift must be given by Dec. 31st to be deducted on your 2011 tax return. This is important because your donation may make the cost of donating a charitable gift less than the value you gave to the charity. By example look at someone in the 28 percent tax bracket that made a donation of $1,000 today. The end result for that person would be as if they only spent $720. The $280 difference is the amount of taxes paid that will be reduced by as a result of the donation. What? Several types of gifts are still possible this year and easy for many of us. Here are a few examples: • Cash—Nothing is easier. A gift of
While these are difficult economic times for many of us, it has also been challenging for the charities that serve our community. By supporting our local charities, we are in turn supporting all of Tampa Bay.
Here are a few of our favorite Bay Area organizations. Moffitt Cancer Center Stephanie Wilson 800-456-3434 EXT 1403 www.moffitt.org/giving Pinellas Education Foundation Jacqulyn Schuett 727-588-4816 EXT 2119 www.pinellaseducation.org Meals on Wheels of Tampa 813-238-8410 www.mowtampa.org Neighborly Care Network “Meals on Wheels” www.neighborly.org
DECEMBER 2011
Senior Voice America
Senior Voice Recipe Challenge Could there be a Frugal Gourmet inside of you? Are you Tampa Bay’s Julia Childs? Time to show Tampa Bay that you’re the next Emeril or Rachel Ray.
This Month’s Recipe Challenge will be Soup or Chili! It’s that time of year… time when those pesky cold fronts move down from the Great White North! (If it was really “great” would we all be down in sunny Florida?) Time for a big bowl of your favorite soup, you know, the one that fills the house with wonderful smells and just oozes with flavor. Rich meaty thick soups or the vegetable soup you were raised on. Do you serve it in a bowl… a cup… or a bread bowl? Does your chili sound the fire alarm or just warm you right down to your toes? So breakout the recipe box or the computer files
for your favorite winter warm-me-up, and share it with your friends at Senior Voice America. Great food is a thing of beauty. And the best recipe in the world is one you get to share! So send in your favorite recipe you know will make the world a better place. Our staff will prepare them in the Senior Voice America kitchen and select the top two and announce the winners in the January issue. Each winner will receive two vouchers for tickets to a Florida Orchestra performance of their choice, and have their recipe published in the January issue in time for others to enjoy his winter.
November’s “Holiday Treats” Recipe Challenge Winners! Congratulations to our recipe challenge Win-
Page 29
GREAT AMERICAN NOVEL, Continued from Page 24.
Book Swap of Carrollwood 13144 N Dale Mabry Hwy • (813) 963-6979
www.bookswapfl.com Inkwood Books 216 South Armenia Ave. • (813) 253-2638
www.inkwoodbooks.com Mojo Books & Music 2558 East Fowler Ave. • (813) 971-9717
www.mojotampa.com Old Tampa Book Co. 507 North Tampa St. • (813) 209-2151
www.oldtampabookcompany.com Bradenton
Books-A-Million 4225 14th St W • (941) 748-3911
www.booksamillion.com Sarasota
A. Parker’s Books 1488 Main St. • (941) 366-1373
www.aparkers.com Annie’s Paperback Express 3251 17th St #90 • (941) 365-5267
Barnes & Noble Booksellers 4010 S. Tamiami Trail • (941) 923-9907
www.barnesandnoble.com
ners. Thanks to everyone that submitted your great Holiday recipes. I’m afraid we didn’t think
Books-A-Million
about how much weight we might gain when we
6591 Stickney Point Road • (941) 922-7804
said we’d cook and eat the recipes you submit-
www.booksamillion.com
ted… but boy are they good! Our two winners are
Circle Books
each receiving two vouchers for the Florida Or-
478 John Ringling Blvd. • (941) 388-2850
chestra performance of their choice.
Viennese Crescent Cookies Submitted by Ginny Dinello of Berkley Michigan Ingredients: 1 Cup ground walnuts 1 Cup butter ¾ cup sugar 2 ½ Cups sifted flour 1 ½ tsp. Vanilla Extract Powdered Sugar Directions: Combine ingredients and knead and shape into balls or crescent shape. Bake on ungreased cookie sheet at 350 degrees of 15 to 17 minutes or until slightly golden brown. Cool 2 minutes and roll in powdered sugar while still warm. Enjoy!
Custard Pie Submitted by Genevieve Gawrych of Zephyrhills Ingredients: 4 eggs ½ Cup sugar ¼ tsp. salt
½ tsp. Almond flavoring ½ tsp. vanilla extract 2 ½ Cup scalded milk
Directions: Combine ingredients and pour into an uncooked pie shell. Sprinkle with a couple dashes of cinnamon and nutmeg. Bake at 400 degrees for 25 to 30 minutes. (No longer)
Send your recipe to: Senior Gourmet, PO Box 270 Lutz, FL 33559 Recipe will not be returned. There will be two monthly Senior Voice Recipe Challenge winners. Winning prizes are subject to change. Senior Voice America, Inc., reserves the right to reprint the recipe without compensation to the individual submitter. Submission of the recipe signifies you are the owner of the recipe and that it is not copyright protected and gives Senior Voice America, Inc., permission to reprint.
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Senior Voice America
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S W C F, NS, ND 67, 5’1, 130lbs Speaks fluent Italian. Looking for S W C M, NS, ND with good old fashioned values 68-75, 5-8 to 5’10 and physically fit. Likes traveling to Italy, dining out, listening to music (big band & jazz), walks on the beach, reading the bible and going to church. Must be financially secure and marriage minded. (727)441-6802 S C NS, ND slim lady ISO computer or dancing expert. Must be NS, ND, SOH 57-62 LTR working, business or professional S M good temper, good looking. Dunedin. After 9pm (727) 488-7420
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Senior Voice America... in print, on the web and on the air. Tune in to AM 1250 WHNZ on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11 a.m. to noon. Also visit our new website, www.seniorvoiceamerica.com.
Senior to Senior Abbreviations M: F: S: D: WD: W: B: H: J:
Male Female Single Divorced Widowed White Black Hispanic Jewish
C: ISO: LTR: NS: ND: SD: SOH:
Christian In Search Of Long Term Relationship Non-Smoker Non-Drinker Social Drinker Sense of Humor
Christian who likes music and dancing. Largo (727) 519-5597 Thoughtful, loving B M, intelligent seeking friend preferably female for correspondence to share and exchange knowledge and good times. Tampa (813) 400-5742 D Italian with lots of love to give. Will respect you for life. I am honest. Age & looks not important honesty is. Financially secure is a plus. St. Pete (727) 498-6995
Will share the journey! WD, NS, ND, W, C, lively 70’s. Palm Harbor (727) 772-7736
SWM, 55, NS, ND, SOH, 5’10 190 lbs with green eyes, trim beard and mustache. Seeking slim, intelligent, affectionate, stable, SF, homebody type, who cooks and enjoys music, movies, sports, eating out and wants LTR. I’m up late. Pinellas only. (727) 492-8164
In my 60’s 5’5 135lbs NS, ND, W C F, dancing, travels, fishing, church, beach ect.. ISO one gentleman with like interests for LTR or more. Largo. cooperrose8@aol.com
Med build S B C M 62 seeking an intelligent, affectionate S C F 50-70 for conversation, dating. Loves the simple things in life. Leading to LTR. ST. Pete (727) 557-8208
Retired slim lady interested in meeting ND, NS single Caucasian gentleman 80+ for friendship, still active with outgoing personality. Seminole, Largo, Clw area. PO Box 834 Largo FL 33779
S W C M 78 5’6 178lbs desires meeting S W F about 75 or younger. I like beaches, day trips, dancing & playing bluegrass music. Largo (727) 535-8585
man Seeking WOMan
Address:
DECEMBER 2011
I’m looking for you. If you are a triple S women, w/f or Latina 60+, height weight proportioned willing to commit, love and all that is good in life. Call me for details. I’m open 24/7 YES (727) 992-2342 SWM 78 5’7 155lbs Good Shape-ISO lonely 70-80 yr affectionate, petite size SWF to spend time with doing ordinary things and just love each other. St.Pete (727) 415-2604 Nice looking male 5’6 in shape seeking slim S W F under 70 yrs who likes to travel & have fun. St.Pete (727) 398-3034 Lady wanted in 70’s. M ISO someone who is sensitive, loving, affectionate and likes life. Please call and let’s talk. St Pete (727) 6234221 Great Guy, W 72, NS, 5’9, retired, still searching for that special lady. I enjoy beach walks, movies, travel, ect. Must have SOH and really desire a LTR. Snowbirds welcome. Clw (727) 284-4259 S W M 85, 5’8, 190 lbs. NS, ND. Seeking senior lady 75-85 for dining out, travel & friendship. Palm Harbor (727) 452-4840 W WD S C M NS, 65, 6” 195lbs. I am handsome and fit. I like tennis and church. ISO
W M 61 ISO 50+ W F uninhibited, down to earth, sensual, honest & caring. Who is looking for friendship & someone to be there. Pinellas Park (727) 222-8657 S W M 67yrs 6’0 185 lbs NS, ND, likes baseball, fishing, billiards SOH. ISO S W F under 55yrs nice looking SOH financially secure NS. Iam poor but a nice guy. Safety Harbor (727) 796-8756 I am 64, Male, tall, professional Asian. Seeking a white petite, attractive, spiritual into yoga, around 60-69 yrs young. LTR (727) 623-9532 59, 6’0 170lbs looking for ladies 45-65 Catholic prefer church goer. Likes walks on the beach in the moonlight, happiness, love, listening and have a great time. PO Box 2211, St. Pete FL 33701 Friend to Friend Handsome man 55 seeks a good friend female for good companionship and quiet, friendly evenings listening to relaxing music with enjoyable conversation and delightful dining. Let’s enjoy good company. Largo (727) 539-1715 S W M 59 5’8 175lbs ISO active, healthy M/F for friendship. greenhornet068@gmail.com. Largo (727) 524-3137
DECEMBER 2011
Senior Voice America
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if you have a service geared to seniors, let them know about it with an ad here! Call today (800) 600-4364 to find out more.
CLASSIFIED ADS Place your classified ad in the Senior Voice America today. Clean out your garage, sell that car, advertise your services. Ads are priced from $40 for up to 20 words, plus a phone number. Additional words are $5. To place your ad, call (800) 600-4364, Ext. 221, or complete the form below and mail with a check payable to Senior Voice America at PO Box 270; Lutz, FL 33548. You can also email your ad to sharon@ggpubs.com Deadline: 20th of the month for the next monthly issue. Name:
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Bathroom Design Updates Help Homeowners Age in Place From humanity’s first steps on the Moon to the rise of nanotechnology, Baby Boomers have witnessed significant changes in our world. And true to their forever-young mentality, Boomers refuse to make sacrifices as they adapt their environment to meet evolving needs as they age. Falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries among those 65 and older and most occur in the bathroom. If you or a loved one is thinking about staying in home as you age, consider these bathroom upgrades to improve safety and accessibility:
Update Tubs and Showers Stepping over a bathtub wall can be a risk for anyone with mobility issues. Although showers can eliminate the step-over risk, the threat of slipping and falling remains. For a generation who grew up taking baths, continuing to enjoy that comfort and experience is important. Much to consumers’ frustration, the institutional nature of walk-in tubs required bathers to give up aesthetics, sacrifice the comfort of a lounging position and lose the indulgent experience of whirlpool jets and other hydrotherapy options. The Kohler Elevance Rising Wall bath offers a safe and stylish solution. With the comfort of traditional bathing and security of a step-in tub, bathers enter when the wall is lowered and raise the wall with minimal effort (less than 5 pounds of force). The optional BubbleMassage offers a more relaxing soak and built-in grab bars provide extra stability and support. After the bath, the tub drains in less than two minutes. Showers and tubs of any type should be fitted with grab bars. Modern designs, such as the Kohler Belay hand rail, marry functionality and aesthetics to ensure homeowners don’t have to sacrifice style or safety.
Consider Mobility Issues Decreased mobility is often a part of the aging process. Replacing a traditional 14- to 15-inch toilet with a taller 17- to 19inch Comfort Height model can significantly improve ease of use. Just as grab bars are vital in the shower or tub, firmly anchored grab bars can provide additional support near the commode. Those with arthritic hands may struggle with knobs on faucets and doors. Replacing knob-style faucet handles and round doorknobs with sleek lever-style handles can help ease use. Manufacturers offer a range of designs that reflect the latest design trends while making life easier. While aging brings a change in ability for many people, transforming the bathroom into a relaxing, accommodating space makes it easier to age in place safely and gracefully.
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DECEMBER 2011