octoBER 2015
TM
SINCE 1980 — VolUME 35 • NUMBER 10
What Documents Should Be in Your Estate Plan? By Joyce Holly
the 7 most dangerous diy home renovations
PAGe 6
LIFE IS MEANINGLESS: Celebrate and Make the Most of this Reality
We trace our ancestors back about 200,000 years - a blink in cosmic time. Unlike the vast majority of species that ever existed, we’re still here. But hold onto your hat: We’re doomed as well. How long do we have? That depends. Countless natural or human-induced calamities could drop the cosmic curtain, such as an asteroid strike, thermonuclear war, a worldwide pandemic, a supernova or something bizarre, like the election of Donald Trump. Even if homo sapiens or our descendants hang on for a few billion years (improbable), in time, Ecclesiastes’ lament will come to pass: “All is futile, utterly futile.” Why? Because eventually our own sun is going to die. At first, it will start to expand, getting hotter and hotter. Earth will become a giant desert, and only insects and bacteria will remain. Later the oceans will boil off and everything will catch fire. When the sun explodes, Earth and our solar system will be gone with nary a trace. Look on the bright side. You will have been dead a long time before such things come to pass. The good news, not yet recognized by billions around the globe, is that there is no grand scheme, no divine plan, no overarching design. In my opinion, your existence is totally meaningless: You have no preordained role. You are inconsequential, like everyone and everything else. We are alone, all of us, with no loving or angry deity or savior to reward or to punish us. There is no sky god doing favors for prayers or inflicting harm if we don’t adhere to what the priests and preachers insist god wants us to do or not do. In my opinion, there is no hell below or heaven above. No afterlife of any kind, period. Your momentary presence on this planet as a somewhat advanced life form is a cosmic accident. It’s highly improbable—and a true wonderment. This life is it, and IT is not going to last very long, so try to include as much joy, art, music, drama and love into life as you can before you die. The end is near, so get on with it. Make no mistake: This is good news. In fact, it’s an incredibly wonderful and liberating perspective. It’s a sound reason to set a course to live well and die happy. Celebrate and shape your own meaningless existence in ways that mean something, many things, in fact, that are precious for you and those See LIFE, Page 27
By Donald B. Ardell
BASEBALL
PAGE 13
FINDING A PAYING FOR LONG-TERM CARE
PAGE 19
Making an estate plan can be time-consuming and confusing. Dying without one, however, is a very poor option, even if a person believes his or her estate is minimal. Except if one lives as a hermit apart from human contact, it is a disservice to one’s near and dear, what to speak of one’s favorite charities and causes, to die with no written estate plan. The value of the plan is not in how it disposes of tangible things, but in the positive memories of the decedent to which it contributes. On the other hand, dying with no written estate plan is a setup for squabbles among the survivors, however small the estate. Intestacy usually has damaging effects on the survivors’ impressions of the deceased. For many people contemplating making or revising an estate plan, it is confusing to understand what instruments a complete plan should include. Generally, the plan needs to include a dispositive instrument—an instrument that conveys property. This can be either a will or a trust. If See ESTATE, Page 22
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Senior Voice America
octoBER 2015
Health Roundup
Meet Dr. Anthony J. Adams There are general dentists. Cosmetic dentists. Biological dentists. Dental specialists. And then there is Healthy Body Dental. From Healthy Body Dental’s inception 31 years ago, we have observed the relationship between dental health and total body health for every patient we have treated. Dr. Adams is one of the first dentists to bring total holistic care to the area and has implemented new and old technology. Studies indicate oral health has a direct correlation with one’s overall health and well being. Healthy Body Dental provides and advocates care that supports the health of the total body. For example, periodontal disease is associated with a number of systemic conditions and can impact several diseases. Dr. Adams and his team work diligently to make certain the patient is equipped with the necessary knowledge to attain and maintain optimum health. “For many years, our health care system has focused on treating people after there is a problem,” Dr. Adams said. “As people become more aware, we recognize [that] by shifting our focus, we can prevent disease and promote overall good health. We can live healthier lives and feel better about ourselves. That is part of what we do at Healthy Body Dental. People want to feel good and look good. Each patient is unique and special. We take the time to help people achieve results by identifying and correcting problem areas.” We focus on the cause. not the symptom. At Healthy Body Dental, the patient is not a number, disease or ailment. The patient is a person who has the opportunity, with the doctor and his team, to provide for his or her
total health. Dr. Adams provides the necessary tools to facilitate the patient in taking an active role in designing a treatment to help him or her reach an optimum level of health and wellness. As no two patients are alike, Dr. Adams and his professional and compassionate team develop a minimally invasive and specific care plan tailored to the needs of each patient based on his or her requirements, health, lifestyle and needs. He takes the time to get to know each patient and formulate a care plan with an emphasis on prevention and healing. He delivers 360-degree care to each person who wants exceptional consideration and follow-through aftercare. If you seek exceptional attention, then you should consider our dental office, Healthy Body Dental, with Anthony J. Adams, DDS, in Clearwater, Fla. If you are looking for a new dentist, second opinion or a new smile, Dr. Adams and his team at Healthy Body Dental have the education, experience and skills to make your dental experience pleasant, comfortable and safe. In our mission, East meets West, old tradition meets new science, and beauty and comfort come together. We are practicing at a time in history when good science and more natural means for healthcare are merging, especially at Healthy Body Dental. It is such a good day for patients who want oral and whole-body health. Anthony J. Adams, DDS, PA, practices at Healthy Body Dental, located in the Cypress Point Shopping Center, 25877 US Highway 19 N, Clearwater, FL 33763. Call (727) 799-3123 or visit us online at www.healthybodydental. com.
octoBER 2015
Senior Voice America
Page 3
Health Roundup
Why You May Not Be Losing Weight When it comes to weight loss, the recommendation of “diet and exercise” has become a standard refrain from personal trainers, fitness gurus, magazines and even doctors. But the issue is more complex, according to experts. “There are underlying physiological, and, in some cases, pathological, mechanisms driving weight gain,” said Dr. Michael A. Smith, senior health scientist for Life Extension Foundation and host of “Healthy Talk” on RadioMD.com. “Until you address these issues, you won’t be as successful on any diet plan as you could be.” So far, research has identified nine weight gaining mechanisms: insulin resistance, hormone imbalance, excessive carbohydrate and starch absorption, muscle loss from low physical activity, low brain serotonin, slow resting metabolism, abnormal fat cell signaling, low adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase activity and diet imbalances. “Think of these nine mechanisms as pillars holding up an overweight frame burdened with too much body fat,” Smith said. A successful approach to weight loss will include a diet plan, an exercise regimen and specific nutrients for correcting the pillars supporting your weight gain, according to Smith. He offers some helpful tips to optimize your health and help you maintain a healthy weight:
• Supplement your diet with coenzyme Q10 in the ubiqui- nol form. If your levels are low, every cell, tissue and organ in your body will suffer, especially your heart. Other benefits include supporting healthy nerve and brain cells, healthy blood sugar, healthy body fat and increased vigor. • When your gut health is com- promised, it doesn’t matter how healthy a diet you eat—you won’t be able to access all the nutrition it provides. Take a probiotic supplement to promote beneficial bacteria and good digestive health.
•
Take a robust multivitamin that delivers ideal doses of a full spectrum of essential nutrients. From vitamin A to the mineral zinc, your body is totally dependent on these nutrients for optimal weight and health. Dosing vitamins and minerals at this “ideal” level can help optimize energy levels, promote hormonal balance, cardiovascular wellness, bone strength, digestive ease, visual acuity, cognitive agility, emotional stabili- ty, joint integrity, and help you maintain a healthy weight.
• To identify what is likely driving your weight gain, visit www.YourWeight LossRX.com. Download a free booklet that offers diagnostic quizzes and customized suggestions for lifestyle changes to make. The booklet can also direct you to specific nutrients shown in research to target your issues.
•
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential to your health, yet your body can’t make them. To support mental and cardiovascular health, promote cognitive agility and ease system inflammation, ensure your diet includes essential fatty acids by taking a supplement.
If you’ve ever wondered why it is so hard to lose weight, don’t just assume the answer lies in more exercise and fewer calories. By addressing the mechanisms driving your weight gain, you’ll be in the best possible position to succeed in your weight loss efforts.
TMTM
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Senior Voice America
octoBER 2015
FROM THE PUBLISHER
TM TM
Senior Voice America, Inc. P.O. BOX 1379 Lutz, FL 33548-1379 Phone (813) 444-1011 • Fax (813) 422-7966 www.seniorvoiceamerica.com Staff Publisher: Evan Gold evan@seniorvoiceamerica.com Managing Editor/Broadcast Producer: Deb Goldman deb@seniorvoiceamerica.com Editor: Lauren Potts lauren@seniorvoiceamerica.com Creative Director: Lourdes M. Sáenz lourdes@seniorvoiceamerica.com ADVERTISING (813) 444-1011 Join our sales team. For information about opportunities throughout Florida and North America, email evan@seniorvoiceamerica.com.
Contributors Abne M. Eisenberg • Garrett Matthews Carolyn Shockey • Steve & Jeanne Wolfen Ruth Fanovich • Dr. Anthony Adams Jean Mlincek • Karyn Rizzo • Joyce Holly Donald B. Ardell • Ben Souchek Would you like to write for Senior Voice America? Please email editor@seniorvoiceamerica.com.
Senior Voice is a Proud Member of Better Living for Seniors The Guardian Association of Pinellas County The Florida Assisted Living Association Senior Voice America is published monthly and is distributed free of charge, courtesy of its advertisers. Distribution area includes Pinellas, Hillsborough, Pasco, Sarasota and Manatee 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.
Tune in to 1250am WHNZ. Monday – Friday From 7-9pm
Who Thought of Awards for Participating?
I am sure most of our readers here have either coached a sport for one of their kids, been a team parent or at least had a kid in sports. I remember growing up in the ‘70s, where I participated in many sports, both individual and team, from being a tennis player, to a football, basketball and soccer player. Growing up in Miami afforded us play year-round. What I also remember is that you had to win, or, at least, come in second to get a trophy or some sort of award. When you lost you went home with nothing but disappointment, of course. But the last decade has really changed sports. More and more I find that basically all you need to do is show up to take home the hardware. Well, and let’s be for real, you don’t even have to show up all the time. So who created this nonsense? I blame it on the losers, yup. Those people that didn’t win when they were kids and have bad memories all got together and concocted how to award mediocrity. I can almost envision the conversation. Loser 1: Hey, remember when we were kids and we lost and never got anything? Loser 2: Yeah, that was a drag, and all the winners and finalists got trophies and they felt good about themselves. Loser 3: Oh right, and I remember that the next year the guys that received trophies were the ones that worked hard and excelled, isn’t that ridiculous. Loser 1: I know, and there were two guys that were on my team one year, when we came in last place, and they decided to hit the gym and practice more and then they won. Loser 2: This is nonsense, our kids shouldn’t feel bad about themselves when they lose. They should understand that they need to be rewarded for trying. Loser 3: So even the ones that are horrible at the game get trophies? And how about the ones that can’t make it all the time? Loser 2: Hey, their parents signed them up, so what the heck, give them one, too? Loser 1: So what you are saying is that it doesn’t matter how hard a kid tries, or practices or even shows up on time? He can make his team horrible or play half-assed, and well he might not even show up to the team pictures or award ceremonies he still gets an award? Losers 2 and 3 in unison: Yup. And that is why America looks nothing like it did years ago. In the immortal words of Yoda (yes, from Star Wars) “No! Try not. Do, or do not. There is no try.” You cannot paint a different picture of winning and losing. Trying is nice and it feels good, but when you sit in bankruptcy court the judge doesn’t award you for trying. When you lose the million-dollar account at the office and the company has to lay off people, your boss doesn’t keep you around because you had a perfect attendance record. In life, if you want to be successful, you need to show up, try and, in the end, DO. It is the DOING that makes things happen. We don’t have lights in our homes because Edison tried. In the end, he DID, and that is why we don’t bump our toes in the middle of the night walking to the bathroom. Well, at least not all the time.
Evan Gold
FROM THE EDITOR In honor of October, I’d like to share one of my favorite poems about Halloween. Beyond pumpkins and candy and costumes, I think this poem captures that strange shadow feeling we get when the things and people we’ve lost seem almost to be with us…even if just for a moment.
The Shadow on the Stone by Thomas Hardy
I went by the Druid stone That broods in the garden white and lone, And I stopped and looked at the shifting shadows That at some moments fall thereon From the tree hard by with a rhythmic swing, And they shaped in my imagining To the shade that a well-known head and shoulders Threw there when she was gardening. I thought her behind my back, Yea, her I long had learned to lack, And I said: ‘I am sure you are standing behind me, Though how do you get into this old track?’ And there was no sound but the fall of a leaf As a sad response; and to keep down grief I would not turn my head to discover That there was nothing in my belief. Yet I wanted to look and see That nobody stood at the back of me; But I thought once more: ‘Nay, I’ll not unvision A shape which, somehow, there may be.’ So I went on softly from the glade, And left her behind me throwing her shade, As she were indeed an apparition— My head unturned lest my dream should fade.
Lauren Potts
octoBER 2015
Senior Voice America
Page 5
Health Roundup
What You Should Know for the 2015-2016 Influenza Season When will flu activity begin and when will it peak? The timing of flu is very unpredictable and can vary in different parts of the country and from season to season. Most seasonal flu activity typically occurs between October and May. Flu activity most commonly peaks in the United States between December and February. What should I do to protect myself from flu this season? CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine for everyone 6 months of age and older as the first and most important step in protecting against this serious disease. People should begin getting vaccinated soon after flu vaccine becomes available, if possible by October, to ensure that as many people as possible are protected before flu season begins. However, as long as flu viruses are circulating in the community, it’s not too late to get vaccinated. In addition to getting a seasonal flu vaccine if you have not already gotten vaccinated, you can take everyday preventive actions like staying away from sick people and washing your hands to reduce the spread of germs. If you are sick with flu, stay home from work or school to prevent spreading flu to others. What should I do if I get sick with the flu? Antiviral drugs are prescription drugs that can be used to treat flu illness. People at high risk of serious flu complications (such as children younger than 2 years, adults 65 and older, pregnant women, and people with certain medical conditions) and people who are very sick with flu (such as those hospitalized because of flu) should get antiviral drugs. Some other people can be treated with antivirals at their health care professional’s discretion. Treating high risk people or people who are very sick with flu with antiviral drugs is very important. Studies show that prompt treatment with antiviral drugs can prevent serious flu complications. Prompt treatment can mean the difference between having a milder illness versus very serious illness that could result in a hospital stay. Treatment with antivirals works best when begun within 48 hours of getting sick, but can still be beneficial when given later in the course of illness. Antiviral drugs are effective across all age-and risk groups. Studies show that antiviral drugs are under-prescribed for people who are at high risk of complications who get flu. This season, three FDA-approved influenza antiviral drugs are recommended for use in the United States: oseltamivir, zanamivir and peramivir.
What flu viruses does this season’s vaccine protect against? Flu vaccines are designed to protect against the main flu viruses that research suggests will be the most common during the upcoming season. Three kinds of flu viruses commonly circulate among people today: influenza A (H1N1) viruses, influenza A (H3N2) viruses, and influenza B viruses. All of the 2015-2016 influenza vaccine is made to protect against the following three viruses: an A/California/7/2009 (H1N1)pdm09-like virus an A/Switzerland/9715293/2013 (H3N2)-like virus a B/Phuket/3073/2013-like virus. (This is a B/Yamagata lineage virus) See FLU, Page 10
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Senior Voice America
octoBER 2015
in your home The 7 Most Dangerous DIY Home Renovations One in five DIY-ers tackling home renovations ends up in the hospital each year due to accidents, according to the Home Safety Council. Don’t become a statistic. Here are the seven most dangerous DIY home renovations you should leave to the experts.
Tree Trimming & Removal Trees don’t always fall in a predictable manner, creating a hazard for yourself and your property. It’s best to consult a certified arborist, no matter how handy you are with power tools. “If a tree falls during a storm, a DIY mishap, or a careless neighbor’s landscaping project, take photos and contact your claims adjuster as soon as possible,” said Erie Insurance Vice President and Product Manager Joe Vahey. “Your adjuster can help evaluate the damage and explain how your homeowners insurance can help.”
Asbestos Removal
Many homes built before 1980 contain asbestos. Before renovating, it’s a smart idea to have your home inspected for asbestos-containing materials by accredited professionals. Leave clean-up to experts, and limit your exposure to the area. Inhaling airborne fibers may cause harmful respiratory problems.
Roof Repair When faced with severe storm damage, homeowners often look for a quick fix for roof damage. Rather than running the risk of falling or injuring yourself, have your homeowners insurance claims adjuster verify damage and schedule repair work with an experienced company. In the long run, this will save you time and money and help you avoid injuries.
Electrical Repairs While it may be easy to change a light switch or install a ceiling fan (make sure your power is turned off before you start), replacing circuits and other larger projects should be done by professionals. This will prevent shocks, injuries and potential fires, while ensuring your home is up to building codes if you eventually plan to sell.
Gas Appliance Repairs Properly cutting off or hooking up gas lines can be tricky, so leave gas appliance repairs to the professionals to protect against potential gas leaks and carbon monoxide poisoning.
Knocking Down Walls If you’re looking for an open floor plan, think before tearing down walls yourself. Do you know which walls are load-bearing and where plumbing or electrical lines are located? Professionals will know how to best navigate the project from start to finish so you stay safe, and your home stays intact.
Pest Control Not all pest-control products should be handled by the average consumer. Keep your family safe by hiring a pest control company to handle toxic substances properly. More renovations safety tips and information on homeowners insurance can be found at www.ErieInsurance. com. Before taking on your next big project, think about where you can bring in the pros to save time and money in the long run, and keep your family safe and sound. If accidents do occur during the DIY renovation process, be sure to loop in your insurance claims agent to help assess any damage.
octoBER 2015
Senior Voice America
in your home
Garden Connect Though it’s still too hot to maintain a garden, we can do a lot of preparation for the fall/winter garden. No. 1: We can start seeds or cuttings in containers. Try to find a semi-shady spot. Remember to water daily or put inside of a plastic bag with a tie to keep moist. Too dry or too wet is not good, and small containers dry out quickly if left outside when it doesn’t rain. Here is a list of some cool weather plants: lettuce, cabbage, broccoli, mustard greens, broad-leaf mustard greens, collards, spinach, kale, Asian greens, chard, arugula, leek (most of the greens), carrots, beets, potatoes, radish, fennel, celery, cauliflower, turnip, rutabaga and winter squash. Keep these in your folder for future reference. A good idea is to use folder tabs. Note down the seed names that you are planting this fall. We’ve learned from a friend that grew up on a home farm that wherever her dad buried kitchen scraps the crop came up bigger and better. Note ‘kitchen scraps’ does not include meat or protein matter – crushed eggshells are OK. If you have melons, calabaza or pumpkins from the previous crop, continue to put mulch, leaves, pine straw, etc. surrounding them, as the rainy season is waning. We lost ours due to too much moisture. Jeanne and I need to stress that you should build up the land as we do, continually, to prevent rot (drowning plants). As you know, we had an extraordinarily wet summer. Now it is becoming mild—thank God! We hope you have some wonderful gardening experiences. Why don’t you share them with us? Our email address is whtdovefarm@yahoo.com. We want to give some praise and acknowledgment to MaryHelen Zopfi and her husband for all of the joy of recycling she brings and her project for the senior citizen home of growing things in halved rain barrels on stands. Hip, hip hooray! We will resume Garden Connect meetings at our White Dove Farm on November 21st.
By Steve & Jeanne Wolfe
OCTOBER GARDENING TIPS FROM UF/IFAS GARDENING CALENDAR Bedding Plants: Even though temperatures are sti ll warm, begin planting for the cooler months ahead. Digitalis (foxglove), petunia, and shasta daisy are good plants or the fall garden. Bulbs: There are many daffodils that are suitable for Florida. Fragrant varieties include ‘Carlton’, ‘Fortune’, ‘Silver Chimes’, ‘Thallia’, and ‘Sweetness’. Herbs: A wide range of herbs can be planted from seeds or plants this month. Some to try are dill, fennel, oregano, and sage. Vegetables: Plant crops now that will grow and produce through the winter months. This includes beet, Brussels sprout, carrot, and onion. What to Plant Lawn weeds: The time to control winter weeds in lawns is before they appear. Pre-emergent herbicides must be applied at the right time to be effective. Apply when nighttime temps are 55-60°F for 4-5 days. Avoid weed and feed products. Strawberries: Prepare beds and set strawberry plants this month. If there isn’t room for a bed, try planting them in large containers. Either way provide daily watering until plants are established. For more information http://solutionsforyourlife.ufl.edu/ lawn_and_garden/calendar.
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Senior Voice America
octoBER 2015
in your home
Easy Interior Upgrades to Add Beauty to Your Home Making home upgrades? Why not make style a priority? There are many easy ways to add beauty to your home in the most unlikely spaces. Striking Bathroom
Performance and aesthetics can intersect when making bathroom changes. Upgrade water-hogging appliances with modern, efficient models that are stylish and easily maintained. These choices can save you money on water bills and time on cleaning day. Some designs, such as the Cascade high-efficiency toilet (HET) from Mansfield Plumbing, even promote health. Its rimless design eliminates the germs and bacteria that hide in difficult-to-access areas. Both the round front bowl and elongated SmartHeight bowl design are approved to meet EPA standards for water efficiency, using just 1.28 gallons per flush—a savings of 20 percent more water than older models. If you have young children at home, consider adding a stylish Elementary juvenile toilet to a bathroom. Less than a foot high, the child-sized toilet makes potty training much more fun and successful. Quick Design Elements
Installing decorative polyurethane millwork pieces makes for a fast, easy project, even for novice doit-yourselfers. Only have an hour? Use out-of-the-box-and-onto-the-house pieces from a brand like Fypon, which come pre-primed and ready for installation. Try these five transformative projects: • Surround your foyer entryway with pilasters and a crosshead. While you’re at it, surround room dividers with pilasters and a crosshead to make transitioning between rooms a unique experience. • Add a two-piece ceiling medallion around the top of a light fixture or ceiling fan in less than 10 minutes. Interlocking pieces snap together quickly. • For a bathroom upgrade, install moisture-resistant pilasters on both sides of your shower stall and a door crosshead overhead. • Give tops of bathroom and kitchen cabinets style with corbels. Accent a boring kitchen island with decorative brackets or corbels. • Add a large sunburst window pediment half round above a bed to serve as a decorative headboard. Add Style Anywhere Even your most utilitarian spaces deserve a style makeover. And windows are a good place to start. Whether your home is modern, contemporary or traditional, say goodbye to plain panes and consider something more interesting and elegant. Acrylic block, glass block or decorative glass windows in any room—even a closet—add privacy and light. Brands like Hy-Lite offer vinyl-framed decorative glass windows with silk-screened designs. Their Home Designer Collection features a range of styles, including baroque, prairie, mission and metro, to complement any home. Tired of slinking down into your tub so that neighbors can’t see you? Replacing your standard bathroom windows with privacy windows (including those that open to allow in fresh air) can make your bathing experience more enjoyable and private. Make a house a home with projects that improve the look and performance of interior spaces.
octoBER 2015
Senior Voice America
humor
A Liberation of Sorts Remember corsets, a part of women’s undergarments in the 18th century? Probably influenced by the fantasies of men who wanted women to have tiny waists and big busts, because it only stands to reason the excess had to go somewhere. One can only wonder what the bottom half looked like hiding under all the petticoats. This was at a time when it was a woman’s duty to please her man’s fancy, regardless of how uncomfortable the garments were to breathe, eat, or sit in. History tells us that it was in the 1920’s that corsets gave way to girdles and bras. Speaking from experience, (I was born too early) I can still feel the pain of a broken stay that kept the girdle from rolling at the waist, jabbing into my side. In order to keep the girdle in place, it needed garters attached to silk stockings, with seams, no less, to hold it down. Sort of like anchors on a tent. So now the thinner hips gave way to a thicker waist and midriff. That is, unless you fell for the long-line bra that had thirty hooks and eyes and also needed garters and stockings to anchor it in place, giving way to the bulging shoulder look. Then came the panty girdle, which was more apt to stay in place and came in various lengths—some of which came to the knees for a slimming thigh look. It also meant we could forgo the panties over the girdle, which was a must with a girdle, just in case the wind blew or someone was looking up from a manhole cover. A new type of garter came on the scene which was just a roll of elastic that you slid over your old thigh high stockings and rolled to just above or below the knee, whichever would cause the lesser of the swelling of the ankles. Then, in the ‘50s, we got something new: the seamless panty hose. They have made them now so that they have tummy control and anything else you may want to improve on. But about this same time, there was an exciting era on the horizon—the bra burners of the ‘60s. We have them to thank for a woman’s right to dress however she is comfortable. Well, I even saw an elderly, buxom lady in the grocery store the other day going braless and wearing a smock-like top. And she must have had a 60-inch waist with everything that went south. For her, it was OK. Never fear. For those of us who just want firmed up or to hide the cellulite dimples, now shapers are in, made by women for women and claiming to be comfortable. They are also for those that are less endowed. There are even some with pads in the derriere, so you can look like Kim Kardashian. Or, if you choose, you can have a whole-body stocking for a pretend see-through look. Wow. Let Madonna wear her corsets as outerwear (like she really needs them). She must think they’re sexy. Or is it a fetish of sorts for the attraction of the men in the audience, like in the good old days? Unfortunately, I’ve always had a shape that’s more than ideal and have resorted to all the help I could get over the years. But now comfort is the name of the game for me, and what is left after the abs workout at the gym is going au naturale. Thanks to the bra burners and my preference for comfort in my golden years, I’ve been liberated, as has the lady in the grocery store who prefers freedom as a tradeoff for her enlarged waistline. I haven’t got to the point yet that I can go braless in public, but the corsets and girdles are nowhere to be seen in my drawers—no pun intended.
By Carolyn Shockey
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Senior Voice America
From FLU, Page 5
octoBER 2015
When should I get vaccinated?
CDC recommends that people get vaccinated against flu soon after vaccine becomes available, if possible by October. It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body and provide protection against the flu. Doctors and nurses are encouraged to begin vaccinating their patients soon after vaccine becomes available, preferably by October so as not to miss opportunities to vaccinate. Those children aged 6 months through 8 years who need two doses of vaccine should receive the first dose as soon as possible to allow time to get the second dose before the start of flu season. The two doses should be given at least four weeks apart.
What kind of vaccines are available in the United States for 2015-2016? A number of different private sector vaccine manufacturers produce flu vaccine for use in the United States. This season both trivalent (three component) and quadrivalent (four component) influenza vaccines will be available. Different routes of administration are available for flu vaccines, including intramuscular, intradermal, jet injector and nasal spray vaccine. Intramuscular (IM) vaccines will be available in both trivalent and quadrivalent formulations. (High dose vaccines, which are IM vaccines, will all be trivalent this season.) For people who are 18 through 64 years old, a jet injector can be used for delivery of one particular trivalent flu vaccine (AFLURIA® by bioCSL Inc.). Nasal spray vaccines will all be quadrivalent this season. Intradermal vaccine will all be quadrivalent.
How much flu vaccine will be available this season? Flu vaccine is produced by private manufacturers, so supply depends on manufacturers. For this season, manufacturers have projected they will provide between 171 to 179 million doses of vaccine for the U.S. market. (Projections may change as the season progresses.) When will flu vaccine become available? The timing of vaccine availability depends on when production is completed. If everything goes as indicated by manufacturers, shipments may begin as early as July or August and continue throughout September and October until all of the vaccine is distributed. Where can I get a flu vaccine? Flu vaccines are offered by many doctor’s offices, clinics, health departments, pharmacies and college health centers, as well as by many employers, and even by some schools. Even if you don’t have a regular doctor or nurse, you can get a flu vaccine somewhere else, like a health department, pharmacy, urgent care clinic, and often your school, college health center, or work. When most healthy people with regular immune systems are vaccinated, their bodies produce antibodies and they are protected throughout the flu season, even as antibody levels decline over time. Older people and others with weakened immune systems may not generate the same amount of antibodies after vaccination; further, their antibody levels may drop more quickly when compared to young, healthy people. For everyone, getting vaccinated each year provides the best protection against influenza throughout flu season. It’s important to get a flu vaccine every season, even if you got vaccinated the season before and the viruses in the vaccine have not changed for the current season. Look for vaccination locations near you by going to http://flushot.healthmap.org. Information provided by the CDC. For more log into http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/season/ flu-season-2015-2016.htm.
octoBER 2015
Senior Voice America
Page 11
future planning
10 Things Everyone Should Know About Planning Cremation Services
It Is My Wish
Taking care of your pre-arrangements is a wise decision that shows you care. Planning a cremation service isn’t the easiest thing in the world. Nor is it the easiest subject to talk about. That’s why we compiled this information. It answers some of the more common – and more difficult – questions that people have. It planned and coordinated, and this can be a complicated task, especially if not also tells you why many people find pre-arranging a cremation service to be a thought through in advance. Also, final expense insurance does not protect against inflation. It is just an insurance policy designed to deliver a predetersensible decision. mined lump sum. Our trusted prearranged plan guarantees cremation service and price. 1. Cremation service arrangements need to be documented. Many people think they have taken care of everything by writing a will, establishing a living trust or even purchasing their cemetery plot. That’s not the case. A will simply leaves instructions for the handling of an individual’s financial affairs, while a living trust usually only clarifies certain general wishes regarding medical treatment. The cremation service itself still remains to be planned. You should make sure that your wishes are shared in writing with several people you can trust – family members, friends and your pre-arrangement counselor.
9. Consider planning and prepaying arrangements. Planning a cremation service can take care of the details. It also relieves loved ones of the worry or making assumptions about the deceased’s wishes. But only pre-funding can take care of the actual expense of the cremation service. And it’s a sensible financial decision. If you decide to plan and prepay for cremation service arrangements, be sure to let your family know. Also, keep your prearrangement documents in a safe place. Check with your bank before placing copies in a safety deposit box to make sure that the box is not sealed at the time of death.
2. Find out what government benefits are available. Unfortunately, most government benefits are severely limited. Regardless, these benefits should be collected. However, most people find that additional 10. Talk with a local pre-arrangement counselor. Arranging a cremation service can seem complicated, but there’s always funding is necessary for the type of cremation service they deem appropriate. someone who can help you. Pre-arrangement counselors are trained professionals who can be a vital and 3. Decide the final disposition. Burial, scattering at sea or keeping the urn at home with a family member is a supportive resource for you. With years of experience, they can explain all the very personal decision influenced by an individual’s faith and beliefs. It should be options available and help you make informed decisions. They can also guide you specified in the will and with prearrangement documents, as well as clearly dis- through the process. cussed with family members and loved ones. Whatever your decision, there are government forms to be processed, fees to be paid and perhaps a celebration of National Cremation Society holds seminars monthly. To register for a seminar or for more information, please call National Cremation Society ® life service to be planned. at (727) 536-0494. 4. Be informed about the choices available. At time of loss, there are many practical decisions to be made. Unfortunately, this is often the time when we’re least able to approach the subject rationally. That’s why you should find a pre-arrangement counselor you can trust, someone you feel is absolutely the right person to handle the arrangements. The best time to do this is before it becomes a necessity. 5. Incorporate the wishes of family members if appropriate. A cremation service is an important part of the grieving process. For family members and loved ones alike, the cremation service allows them an opportunity to express their sadness, share memories and pay their last respects. A cremation service is a time when the opinions of the family should be considered. Prearranging is an excellent way to discuss and resolve these issues. Ultimately, however, this is a personal decision and should be made by you. This is one instance where you can have it your way. 6. A prearranged cremation service and Medicaid assistance. If you’re planning on applying for Medicaid assistance, for yourself or a loved one, a prearranged funeral agreement can be extremely beneficial in meeting your needs. In most states, a prearranged cremation service is treated as an exempt asset for Medicaid qualification purposes when ownership of the policy is irrevocably assigned. This allows you to prearrange the cremation service you desire while maintaining assistance eligibility. Many states have no maximum limit to the cost of a prearranged cremation service. Please consult with your attorney before applying for Medicaid assistance to learn more about your state’s requirements. 7. Don’t be afraid to ask about prices. The costs of arranging a cremation service can vary considerably from company to company. Be careful to choose a funeral home which presents its prices – the cost of the service, cemetery plot or cremation, memorialization, and so on – clearly and simply. Unfortunately, cremation service costs are also subject to inflation. Making your own prearrangements allows you to compare prices and freeze the cost against inflation. 8. Why final expense insurance may not be enough. Insurance provides a lump sum benefit. Keep in mind, however, that even with this insurance in place, the actual cremation service itself still needs to be
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Senior Voice America
The Final Curtain
Recently I had a client who was in a Hospice Care Center. She wanted to go home for her final days. She missed her many pets and wanted to spend her final days with her family in a familiar place. Unfortunately, she didn’t make it home. Honestly? She could have gone home. So what happened? Her family was not basing their decisions on her living will or her wishes; instead, they based them on what was convenient for them and the facility. Not to be harsh, but situations like this happen all the time. We listen to how health care providers need time, sometimes days, to plan a discharge. We forget this is America, and we have the right to be discharged from a facility when we want to, not on a facility’s time frame. It should not (and does not) take days to arrange a discharge. When given the responsibility and authority of being someone’s Power of Attorney (POA) or Health Care Surrogate (HCS) to make decisions with regard to the final days of his or her life, do not allow a facility to dictate where these days will be spent. On behalf of a loved one or person we are representing, we can say, “NO, we are taking them home now and we will call a wheelchair
By Nurse Ruth Fanovich
L A R G O S H O W - Oct. 3 1 & Nov. 1 Largo Minnreg Hall 6340 126th Avenue, Largo www.minnreg.com Sat. 9-5. Sun. 9-4 Concealed Weapons Classes Available Sat. 2pm - Sun. 1pm Permit Classes $60 per person
octoBER 2015
Admission $9 includes raffle to win a gun Mention you saw the ad in Senior Voice and get $1.00 off admission.
120 tables of guns, accessories, etc.
For more info: nextgunshow.com • Contact Guy: 727-776-3442
transportation service or an ambulance ourselves, if need be.” You can do this. You have the right. You must honor the person for whom you are POA/HCS. Remember, it is not about how you or the health care system wants it. It is about what your loved one designated you to do. Think about yourself. You prepare a will, a living will, and give POA and HCS powers to a person trusting that he or she will protect your right to die at home with dignity. How would you feel if your written wishes were not honored? If they were violated because it wasn’t convenient for the healthcare system to discharge you—they needed to make arrangements—and your advocate said, “OK.” SPEAK UP! Say, “No, I’m sorry, but we want our loved one discharged today.” Allow them to go home for whatever time they may have left. You have the right and the moral obligation to at least try. Again, is it easy? I will be the first one to tell you it is hard dealing with the emotions that surround someone’s final days. If it is truly your loved one’s wish to be at home for their final days, when you do step up and assure this happens, the reward is peace...for you and your loved one. What are your thoughts? What have you experienced? Let’s talk! Provided by Ruth Fanovich, RN, LHRM, Owner, Care Placement Home Health Agency, Inc. and RMF Care Management, Inc. www.CarePlacementHH.com.
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Baseball His name was Jack and he loved to watch kids play baseball. He was older than our fathers, but not as old as our grandfathers. He didn’t have children, so he adopted the players on my small town’s Little League teams. Jack played no favorites. In his eyes, we were all superstars. Every afternoon, he assumed the position – half-standing, half-leaning against the fence behind the home team’s dugout. “How ya doing?” he said to the grown-ups. “Attaboy,” he said to the players. You could strike out four times and be dropped to ninth in the batting order. You could boot every ground ball and be exiled to right field. It didn’t matter to Jack. “Attaboy,” he’d holler. “Keep after ‘em, kid.” The Little League field can be a lonely place if you stink. Jack’s encouraging words raised our spirits and helped dry our eyes. The coach could threaten to trade us for a whole new team. Our dads could joke about fathering a bunch of losers. It didn’t matter. We knew we always had Jack. He looked into our eyes while we talked as if the words actually mattered. We knew he’d never tattle to our parents or the coach. Folks in town whispered that Jack was slow, but we didn’t believe them. The man had a computer for a brain. He knew your team’s won-loss record. He knew the last time you got more than one hit in a game. The league never had to provide extra seating for our games. Three rows of dusty bleachers were more than enough. Parental attendance was hit and miss. Attendance of grown-ups who didn’t have children on the field was pretty much miss. Except for Jack. He must’ve had some kind of job, but he never talked about it. A job meant dealing with grown-ups and Jack preferred to be with children. Adults thought he was crazy for going on and on about the home run Harold McCall hit that went over the road and landed in the service bay of Ratliff’s Transfer, a distance that grew by 10 feet at each retelling. But he had a captive audience when he told us, and we happily added to the legend. Jack had a beat-up convertible that seemed to stretch from third base to home plate. If your team won three games in a row, it was tradition that the coach buy milkshakes at the Custard Stand across town. Nobody wanted to go with him. You could sit in a station wagon any time. We piled in Jack’s ride. I played a game with my ball cap, using it to gather air like a bulldozer scoops dirt. I pretended to dump the contents under the seat and then reached up to get another supply. The wind fluttered my shirt, bent my ears and curled my hair. “Attaboy,” Jack hollered. At that moment, at least, everything was right with the world.
By Garret Matthews
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Senior Voice America
octoBER 2015
Senior Happenings Come dance and socialize with us every Friday 7:00 Poker Tournament Benefit p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Large, padded wooden floor. Live music. Tampa Palms Golf & Country Club Coffee, ice and water furnished. BYOB and snacks. October 12 $5 admission couples and singles welcome. Professional dealers dole out the cards for this tournaEvent location: from US 19 go East on 62 Ave. N. Turn ment with buy-backs and open bar. Benefits the Florida right at 3rd traffic light, onto 21 St., then left at stop sign. Medical Center Foundation of Caring. 6:00 p.m. Price: For more information (727) 522-8329. $100-$7,500 buy-in. The Palms Golf & CC is located at 5811 Tampa Palms Vault of Souls Blvd., Tampa, FL.
The Vault October 9 & 10
Brooksville Woman’s Club annual Victorian Tea
Gentile Foundation Classic
20th Annual Arts & Crafts Event
TPC Tampa Bay October 9
St. Paul United Methodist Church October 10
Ringling Museum of Art October 15
Community Health Seminars: Diabetes and Men’s Health
Morton Plant Hospital October 7
Health experts from Morton Plant Mease invite the community to attend upcoming health seminars in October focusing on weight loss surgery, breast cancer, and preventing heart disease and stroke. 10:00 a.m. Free. Morton Plant Hospital is located at 6600 Madison St., New Port Richey, FL.
Each player will receive the opportunity to golf with a celebrity golfer, a polo, a golfer gift, beer coupons, admittance to the reception, awards and more. Benefits The Gentile Family Foundation and Shelton Quarles’ (who will be in attendance) IMPACT Foundation. 10:30 a.m. Tickets: $250. TPC T.B. is located at 5300 W. Lutz Lake Fern Rd., Lutz, FL. Celebrate Oktoberfest
Camelot Community Care October 9
Tampa’s new reservations only haunted attraction imBrooksville Woman’s Club merses you into the story line to a point where you become October 14 & 15 a character in the show. Each room is explored in the first Founder’s Week event. Enjoy a relaxing, old-fashioned person and unfolds your destiny. There is no time limit tea, with all the accompaniments. 12:00 p.m. Tickets: $10, and the living must find their own way out. Make a reserincludes tea, finger sandwiches, baked goods and music. vation at thevaultofsouls.com. Slots available between 6 The Brookville Woman’s Club is located at 131 S. Main p.m. and 2 a.m. every Friday and Saturday in October. St., Brooksville, FL. 6:00 p.m. Tickets: $100 and up. The Vault is located at 655 N. Franklin St., Tampa, FL. Ringling International Arts FestivalCelebration For more information (813) 494-6868.
85 vendors, door prizes, a children’s activity center and pumpkin patch! The event is Saturday, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., both inside and outside the Christian Life Enrichment Center. Original items, handcrafted and created by the artists themselves. $1.00 donation at the door with the proceeds going toward the homeless and other select ministries in the church. St. Paul UMC is located on the corner of Highland Ave and Rosery Rd., Largo, FL. For more information please call (727) 585-0273 (church office) or email JudyLazanis@ coastalpgi.com.
“Tampa Bay’s most authentic Oktoberfest” by the GerRain Barrel Workshop & Master Gardener Plant Sale man American Society of Pinellas features live German Hernando County Utility Department oompah music, Gulf Coast Enzianer Schuhplattler Verein Folk Dancers, a variety of imported beers, homemade cuiOctober 10 sine and German vendors. 4:00 p.m. Tickets: $6; children To attend workshop, you must pre-register and send 12 and under free. payment to HCUD. Write ‘Rain Barrel Workshop Oct. 10’ Camelot Comm. Care is located at 8098 66th St. N., on the envelope. No walk ups permitted. 9:30 a.m. Tickets: Pinellas Park, FL. $68, includes a completed rain barrel (Hernando County Utilities customers receive a one-time $25 credit on their Oktoberfest dance water bill). The H.C. Utility Dept. is located at 21030 Cortez Blvd., Hernando County Shrine Club Brooksville, FL. October 9
Presented by the German American Club of Spring Florida Viking Fest Hill, the event includes music, food and dancing. Dress Tampa Garden Club code: Trachten/club casual. No shorts or jeans. Music provided by Manni Daum and Son. Bring your own beverage. October 10, 2015 4:00 p.m. Tickets sold in advance only. No tickets sold at In commemoration of Leif Ericson’s Day, take a step the door. Tickets are $18 for members, $22 for guests. back in time to an old Viking village with a “ghost” guided The Hernando Shrine Club is located at 13400 Montour tour, mead and ale brewing, dying and spinning, period St., Brooksville, FL. costumes, Viking combat reenactment, a ship display, storytelling and music. An optional Scandinavian dinner Oktoberfest Tampa show is available ($25, $10 ages 10 and younger). 2:00 p.m. Tickets: $5. Curtis Hixon Park The Tampa Garden Club is located at 2629 Bayshore October 9 - 11 Blvd., Tampa, FL. For more information (813) 251-5059. Tampa’s waterfront park is transformed into a giant beer garden featuring traditional dancing, food and beer. The biggest draw is the games, which range from stein races (running an obstacle course without spilling any of the beer in both hands) to Carry the Wench, tug of war, keg stack and more. Fri. 4:00 p.m., Sat. & Sun. 11:00 a.m. Tickets: $8, $20 weekend (advance). The Curtis Hixon Park is located at 600 N. Ashley Drive, Tampa, FL. For more info (813) 397-8722 or www.oktoberfesttampa.com. Dance for your Health
St. Petersburg October 9, 16, 23 & 30
Legoland’s Brick-or-Treat
Legoland Florida October 10 & 11
This spooky, kooky event is included with regular admission and takes place on weekends through out October. It features themed treat stations with candy, a scavenger hunt in Miniland USA, a giant Lego hearse, Lego building contest, fireworks and a kids only costume contests. Included with admission. 10:00 a.m. Tickets: $75, $65 seniors and ages 3-12. 1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven, FL. For more information (877) 350-5346 or www.legoland.com.
The four-day festival of contemporary music, theater and dance presents seven performances that represent the many and varies cultures of Asia. Included in the ticket price is free admission to the galleries and gardens, as well as Jazz Sunsets and Gatehouse Gatherings. 6:00 p.m. Tickets: $30-$35; $27-$31.50 members. Ringling Museum is located at 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, FL. Magnolia Fest
Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park & Campground October 15 - 18
The four-day live music and arts and crafts festival celebrates its 19th years with a variety of genres from rock ‘n’ roll and blues, to bluegrass, cajun, country and reggae. Headliners include, Tedeschi Trucks Bands, The Avett Brothers, Keller Williams Grateful Gospel, Lake Street Dive and many more. 2:00 p.m. Price: $50-$400. The campground is located at 3076 95th Drive, Live Oak, FL. For more information (386) 364-1683 or www. magnoliafest.com. Tarpon Springs Oktoberfest
Downtown Tarpon Springs October 18
A German biergarten will be surrounded by food vendors, arts and crafts, continuous music, dancing, games, keg tappings and contests for costumes, beer stein holding, best beard and best chicken dance. 10:00 a.m. Free. Fest location is on Orange Street Between Safford and N. Pinellas Avenues, Tarpon Springs, FL. Sacred Heart Fall Festival
Sacred Heart Interparochial School October 18
Sacred Heart’s annual community event features carnival rides, live bands, mixed entertainment, food, games and craft vendors. Benefits Sacred Heart Interparochial Catholic School. 12:00 p.m. Free; $12-$20 (rides). Sacred Heart is located at 7951 46th Way N., Pinellas Park, FL. 10th Annual Jewish Book Festival
Tampa October 18, 20 - 22, 27
Featured authors in the Festival of Books & Conversations are selected from approximately 250 authors of new books represented each year by the Jewish Book Council in New York City. The 2015-16 Festival will include: Oct. 18-Champagne Brunch featuring Sarah Wildman (Paper Love, Searching for the Girl My Grandfather Left Behind),
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Senior Happenings 10:30 a.m. Tickets are $10. Musical Evening Featuring Author Eddie Shapiro (Nothing Like a Dame, Conversations with the Great Women of Musical Theater), 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $12 and include one complimentary cocktail, hors d’oeuvres and desserts. On Oct. 20, Coffee & Conversation with Lynda Lippman-Lockhart (The Laundry Room). 7 p.m. On Oct. 21, A Conversation: Contemporary Israel Featuring Dan Ephron (Killing A King, The Assassination of Yitzhak Rabin and the Remaking of Israel). Tickets are $10 and include a Kosher Israeli-Style Dinner Buffet; reservations requested. 6:30 p.m. On Oct. 22, Coffee & Conversation with Barbara Post-Askin (Reflections of Liberty, A Memoir). Tickets are $5 and include a Continental Breakfast. 10:00 a.m. That same evening, A Conversation: Fatherhood Featuring Joshua Braff (The Daddy Diaries), 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $5 and include libations and snacks. On Oct. 27, luncheon with Judith Viorst (Wait For Me and Other Poems About the Irritations and Consolations of a Long Marriage), at Maggiano’s Restaurant, Westshore Mall. Tickets are $18 and include a family-style Italian luncheon and cash bar; advance reservations requested. 11:30 a.m. And at 7:00 p.m., A Talk About Jewish Genetics. Free event open to the entire community. Most events located at 13009 Community Campus Dr., Tampa, FL. For information please contact Ms. Brandy Gold at 813-769-4725; brandy.gold@jewishtampa.com. Tequila and Tapas
Hot Beach Bar & Restaurant October 19
Sample a flight of tequilas, paired with Chef Paul Daubert’s tapas. 6:00 p.m. Price: $25, plus tax and gratuity. Hot Beach is located at 17814 Gulf Blvd., Redington Shores, FL. Shine Medicare Help
The Palm Harbor Chamber of Commerce October 20
Confidential, unbiased help with all Medicare questions, long-term care planning, and prescription assistance resources. Registration required. 12:30 p.m. Free. The Palm Harbor Chamber of Comm. is located at 4125 East Lake Road S, Palm Harbor, FL. Rock the Runway
The Club at Treasure Island October 21
The St. Anthony’s Hospital Auxiliary presents its 63rd annual luncheon and fashion show featuring the latest by Dillards. Benefits programs and services at the hospital. 11:00 a.m. Tickets: $50. The Club is located at 400 Treasure Island Causeway, Treasure Island, FL. WingHouse Charity Golf Classic
Cypress Run Golf Club October 22
Foursomes tee off for this scramble style tournament with lunch, a shotgun start, on course contests, food sampling and an auction. Benefits the Pediatric Cancer Foundation. 11:30 a.m. Price: $225, $400 foursome. Cypress Run Golf Club is located at 2669 St. Andrews Blvd., Tarpon Springs, FL. Sarasota Pumpkin Festival
Payne Park October 23
This Halloween themed festival says it has something for everyone -- and this year, you can try the flying trapeze. Put on your trick-or-treat costume and come out for live music, hay rides, face painting, mazes, a large variety of cuisine and tons of games and activities for all ages. See a circus show, costume parade, pie-eating contest, pumpkin patch and safe trick or treating. 12:00 p.m. Price: $10,
$7 students ages 12-18, $5 ages 4-11, 3 and younger free. Rides additional. Payne Park is locateed at 2050 Adams Lane, Sarasota, FL. For more information (941) 219-8410 or www.sarasotapumpkinfestival.com. Fall Festival
Village Presbyterian Church October 24
Decorated cars will have their trunks open and filled with candy for trick or treating at this festival with pumpkin painting, a bounce house, cookie decorating, face painting, games and photo opportunities. Costumes are encouraged. 10:00 a.m. Free. Village Prest. Church is located at 13115 S Village Drive, Tampa, FL. Tampa Pig Jig
Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park October 24
he family friendly festival on the waterfront includes 50 barbecue teams, local celebrity judging, live music by the Eli Young Band and Mark Bryan of Hootie and the Blowfish, food trucks and a mechanical bull. Benefits NephCure Kidney International. 12:00 p.m. Tickets: $25, 11 and younger free. Curtis Hixon Park is located at 600 N Ashley Drive, Tampa, FL. Sarasota Pumpkin Festival
Payne Park October 24 & 25
This Halloween themed festival says it has something for everyone -- and this year, you can try the flying trapeze. Put on your trick-or-treat costume and come out for live music, hay rides, face painting, mazes, a large variety of cuisine and tons of games and activities for all ages. See a circus show, costume parade, pie-eating contest, pumpkin patch and safe trick or treating. 12:00 p.m. Price: $10, $7 students ages 12-18, $5 ages 4-11, 3 and younger free. Rides additional. Payne Park is located at 2050 Adams Lane, Sarasota, FL. For more information (941) 219-8410 or www.sarasotapumpkinfestival.com. Rocktoberfestival
Historic Downtown Palm Harbor October 24
A rock and roll themed Oktoberfest combines lots of beer and food with live music by Stormbringer, the Black Honkeys and Jeriko Turnpike. 4:00 p.m. Free. Fest. location is along Fla. Ave., Palm Harbor, FL. Guavaween
Cuban Club October 24
Now a ticketed party instead of a street parade, this year’s Guavaween takes on a post-apocalyptic theme in a Mad Max-style setting and steam punk fashion. Live music includes AC/DC tribute band Highway to Hell, local rockers Scream Machine, and a costume contest will award $1,000 for the top costume. 21 and older only. 6:00 p.m. Tickets: $12-$25 general; $65-$85 VIP. The Cuban Club is located at 2010 N. Avenida Re-
publica De Cuba, Tampa, FL. For more information (813) 248-2954 or www.guavaweentampa.com. Pints for Paws Beer Festival
Lakeland Center Jenkins Arena October 24
Bring your leashed dog to this beer festival with sampling of more than 90 brands of beer, live entertainment, a food truck rally, sampling glass and soft pretzels. 21 and older only. Benefits the Humane Society of Polk County. 6:00 p.m. Tickets: $31.50 advance, $41.50 day of. Lakeland Ctr. is located at 701 W Lime St., Lakeland, FL. U.S. Women’s National Team Vs. Brazil
Citrus Bowl October 25
Witness the second leg of a two game set for the World Cup champion U.S. Women’s National soccer team against Brazil. 2:30 p.m. Tickets: $31-$297.50. The Citrus Bowl is located at 1610 W Church St., Orlando, FL. Lake Ashton Annual Craft Fair
Lake Ashton Clubhouse Ballroom November 14
The fair showcases about 45 indoor and outdoor craft booths hosted by talented regional crafters. Proceeds from booth rentals and the bake sale will be used towards dedicated pickleball courts for Lake Ashton. 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Free. Free parking is available on both sides of the Clubhouse. The Clubhouse address is 4141 Ashton Club Drive, Lake Wales, FL. Mention to gate attendants that you are attending the fair. Annual Lighthouse Arts & Crafts Fair
Southport Springs Golf & Country Club November 14
Vendors will be presenting a large variety of high quality crafts including Christmas decorations, jewelry, fabric, pottery, woodcraft, and much more. Also bake sale and a Chinese auction of crafts donated by each crafter. (You don’t need to be present for the drawing to win.) 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Club is located on Chancey Rd., one mile East of Morris Bridge Road, Zephirhills, FL.
Email Your Senior Happening to: Lourdes@Seniorvoiceamerica.com
The Deadline for the November Issue is October 15th
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Senior Voice America
octoBER 2015
travel
Ways to Save Money on a European Family Vacation
Dr. Bonnie Sanchez, ABPM
Dr. Narmo Ortiz, FACFAS, CWS
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If a European vacation seems like a financial stretch, take note: There are plenty of ways to see the continent affordably. With transportation deals and budget accommodations, families visiting Europe can stretch their dollars. Here are some economical traveler’s tips for families who want to do and see more while abroad:
Daily Deals Daily deal websites, so popular in the United States, can also help you find discounts on overseas restaurants, attractions and accommodations. Save on international data fees by downloading mobile apps in advance so you can find great deals on the fly.
Travel by Train Once in Europe, traveling by rail is an efficient and authentic way to explore more of the continent. Forget the stress of navigating foreign roads and highways by car; train travel lets you relax and experience scenery while connecting to historic and culturally rich destinations. “As more high speed lines between city-centers become available, train travel is becoming faster, more convenient and more affordable than ever before,” said Melanie Albaric, Marketing & Communications Manager at Rail Europe. By booking one of the many European rail passes through Rail Europe, the largest distributor of European rail products in North America, you can get access to free rail travel for children, an offering now available on the Eurail Pass product line, the Swiss Travel Pass, the German Rail Pass and the BritRail Pass. The company combines the maps, schedules and fares of more than 50 different train companies across Europe, creating a one-stop shop for travelers and travel agents to plan and book European rail travel. For more information about discounts for families or to book travel, visit www.raileurope.com or call 1-888-382-7245.
Family-Friendly Lodging Think beyond the pricey hotel. When it comes to clean, safe and comfortable places to stay throughout Europe, travelers have never had so many options. If you think of a hostel as a place only for college partiers or rugged backpackers, think again. There are plenty of family-friendly hostels throughout Europe that can accommodate the needs of a traveling family. A little Internet research can point you in the right direction. Additionally, community-based sites, such as Airbnb, can help connect travelers with comfortable accommodations abroad that meet a range of budgets. Don’t write off Europe as a vacation destination for your family. With the right tips and tools, you can visit more cities and see more sights.
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finances
BEYOND ANGRY BIRDS:
Using Technology for Your Finances
In addition to providing news, entertainment and access to social networking, mobile devices and apps can also
make tracking your investments and the financial markets more convenient than ever before. Though this is good news for those who are interested in learning more about how their investments perform, be careful not to let these tools guide your financial decisions.
Apps and widgets that allow you access to fast information can be more of a hindrance than a help if they dis-
tract you from your long-term financial goals. Instead of becoming overwhelmed by the amount of information available at your fingertips, become strategic. Select a few apps or online tools and put them to work for you in the right way – by simplifying your finances and helping you make educated decisions. Here are some to consider:
Enjoy easy access – Consumer banking and trading platforms have become more accessible with the
advent of smartphones and tablets. To give yourself quick, secure access to your personal banking, credit card,
brokerage and other financial accounts, download your bank’s verified app. Having all of your accounts in one place
makes it much easier to check on things on-the-go, while they’re fresh in your mind.
Know the lay of the land – The financial markets produce mountains of data, which can make it difficult to understand how your investments are performing
beyond the day-to-day. Fortunately, interactive tools like Smart Money’s Map of the Market can help you cut through the daily chatter to get to the things you
need to know – how specific sectors and the biggest players in your portfolio are performing.
Get daily intel – If you’re interested in seeing how your investments are performing day-to-day, there are a number of online resources available that
can supplement traditional consumer financial news. For example, apps like Mint.com
and
Market
Scan
offer
reports
on
individual
stocks,
including
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Senior Voice America
octoBER 2015
self help
What Good is an Apology? By Professor Abné Eisenberg An apology is saying the right thing after doing the wrong thing. An unkind word cannot ever be retracted. Most of us have said or done things for which we are truly sorry. Expressing our remorse or regret should simply increase our awareness of what we have done and remind us not to do it again. It may not, however, heal or remedy the harm it has inflicted upon the person whom we have offended. By acknowledging your shame or regret, you give the person you have wronged the power to forgive you. A perfect apology always requires that it be tailored to the recipient and the situation. Apologies having the reputation of being repeated over and over again. How should apologists be treated? Should criminals accused and convicted of violent crimes be absolved of their guilt by their simply saying they are sorry? Many a jury member is inclined to vote in favor of a criminal who openly expresses contrition. If the individual knowingly committed a crime, under what circumstances should that person be excused? Jurisprudence takes into consideration such things as intent, the actual act, and its consequences. If someone of sound mind intentionally murders a spouse, should the person saying, “I’m sorry,” be taken into consideration by a jury? Why? In what way does such an admission make the pain and suffering of the family any more bearable? In any apologetic situation, both the apologist and the apologee must be rendered separate but not equal in treatment. The injured party should always be extended greater favor and consideration than the perpetrator. The British author, Gilbert K. Chesterton, had this to say about an apology: “A stiff apology is a second insult. The injured party does not want to be compensated because he has been wronged; he wants to be healed because he has been hurt.” Interpersonal communication often links an apology with forgiveness. In the Christian confessional, the penitent who expresses genuine regret and remorse for a wrongdoing is usually met with priestly absolution and penance. This raises an interesting question: Should such absolution be impervious to the enormity or seriousness of the confession; should it be unconditional? Just how much weight should an apology carry? Behavioral psychologists place a greater emphasis on what people do than what they say. While the verbal aspect of any interaction should not be ignored or devalued, actions should always take precedence over words spoken. Humanistic psychologist Clark Moustakes leveled this forceful charge: “Accept everything about yourself – I mean everything. You are you and that is the beginning and the end – no apologies, no regrets.” While this approach sounds extremely harsh and unfeeling, it addresses the question of responsibility squarely. People who intentionally hurt others or do things that inflict great harm should be held accountable. An example must be set so that others clearly understand that such behavior is unacceptable. We are living in a time in which extraordinary public acts of contrition have become so commonplace that one pundit describes the atmosphere as “apology mania.” Public official in every walk of life fill our tabloids with apologies for various indiscretions. Just how willing should the general public be to excuse their behavior simply because they said they were sorry? While a great many people were willing to excuse their behavior because they ultimately owned up to their actions, the reality is that what they did was wrong. They were fully aware of the fact that they were coerced to admitting that a right and valuable deed was a wrongdoing. How should we handle the next apology? Forgive or forget? In most instances, our response will affect not only our own self-respect and self-worth but also that of those whose apologies we accept. Ultimately, we will all, at some point, be confronted by the question, “What good is an apology?” Professor Eisenberg was born in New York City and now lives in Belleair Bluffs, Fla. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps in WWII. His career consisted of teaching various aspects of interpersonal communication for 60 years at leading universities. Send comments on his articles to aeisenberg3@tampabay.rr.com.
octoBER 2015
Senior Voice America
future planning
Finding and Paying for Long-Term Care
Long-term care is on the minds of many people, regardless of their current health situation. Deciding what direction to go when choosing long-term care providers can be very confusing. Now that more people are living longer, we’re all facing decisions that didn’t exist in the past. What programs are available to help pay for long-term care? Unless you were able to benefit from a long-term care policy purchased early in life, then the National and State programs can be used to pay for care. If a person is receiving disability benefits or is 65 and older, Medicare can then offer Skilled Nursing, Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapies in wherever a person calls home. This does need to be ordered by a primary care physician and is one way to receive the care needed at no charge. For those who have served in the military and been honorably discharged, there are some low- to no-cost benefits and programs available. The Aid & Attendance benefit and many other benefits may cover private-duty help in the home and assisted living when needed. There is an asset cap to these programs. However, if a veteran or spouse is depending on low to little assets, the County Veteran Service Offices can help apply for benefits at no charge.
By Karyn Rizzo
• Visit the National Association of County Veteran Service Officers at http://nacvso.org/find-a-service-officer/ to learn more. • To find a low-cost service to help with the application of benefits, contact Elder Veterans Legal Aid Group at (800) 878-2149. If there are more than $80,000 in assets, contact an Elder Law Attorney who specializes in VA benefits to begin the application. To find an elder law attorney in your area, go to www.naela.com. • For information on the VA Health System and to meet with a Benefits officer, go to www.VA.org. • To access the Social Security Disability Application Online, visit http://www.ssa.gov/disabilityssi/. There are four steps in the Online Disability Application Process: Provide background information, provide disability information, sign medical release, and confirmation (it takes about two hours). Many states offer long-term care through Medicaid, and this can be an option for many needing private-duty assistance in the home and/or assisted living. In some states, a Personal Needs Trust can be established by an elder law attorney to qualify for the Medicaid benefits to pay for needed care. If a Medicare recipient is living strictly on their SSI or SSD income, he or she most likely qualifies for Community Medicaid and other state programs. To apply for Medicaid, begin the application online at www.medicaid.org (enter state). Karyn Rizzo, owner of Elite Marketing & Consulting, has more than 20 years’ experience working in the healthcare industry. She is the author of the bestselling “Aging in America: Navigating our Healthcare System.” The expanded version is now available, including helpful tips on choosing physicians, Medicare and Medicaid plans, senior housing, assisted living centers, rehab/nursing centers, mental health programs, and accessing benefits for retired military and their spouses, as well as in-depth coverage on how to prevent fraud, neglect and abuse of the elderly. Visit www.agingguidebook1.com, email agingguidebook@gmail.com or call (727) 452-1300 for more information.
To order, send a check for $19.00 (includes tax and shipping) to: Elite Marketing & Consulting or Karyn Rizzo P.O. Box 7221 Seminole, FL 33775
Make sure to include your name and return address.
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real estate
Options when Selling a House and Downsizing Are you considering selling your house and downsizing into a smaller house, apartment, or community? There are some items that you must know to ensure a more stress and hassle free sale of your current residence. In this article we will cover the options a seller has when downsizing their house. If someone wants to sell a house, there are only a few options. Enlist the assistance of a real estate agent. Market the house yourself, For Sale By Owner. Or call a company or individual that “Buys Houses.” Utilizing a Real Estate Agent. Real Estate agents, as most anything, have their positive and negative aspects. Positive aspects are that when performed well, they provide a good service to expose your house to a large potential market. They can also reduce a lot of the stress of selling a house by communicating with buyers and their agents so you don’t have to. Negative aspects are, when you don’t have a good agent, selling a house can be a very bad experience. Is the agent marketing your house as well as they can or should be? Or are they just literally sticking a sign in the yard, putting your information on the MLS (Multiple Listing Service) and waiting for something to happen. Worse, are they putting the wrong information in the MLS. Are they placing pictures on the MLS that show your house in a positive light, or pictures that make your house look like it has been foreclosed by a lender or should be? When potential buyers are looking online at houses, you want to make sure that your house looks as good as it can to them. Are you prepared for the other potentially stressful items when listing your house? Are you going to get and keep your house in show ready condition? When agents are showing prospective buyers houses and decide at the last minute they’d like to see yours, will you mind receiving a phone call that they would like to show your house in the next 30 minutes? Do you mind showing your house evenings or anytime a potential buyer wants to see it? Do you mind total strangers who may or may not be serious buyers walking through your house? Especially when it comes to open houses, you (or the agent) doesn’t have complete control over who goes through your house. One of the biggest things to realize when listing your house, is that the agent has no “skin in the game.” Yes, they should be working for you but the reality is they don’t have much to lose if
By Ben Souchek
your house doesn’t sell except for the time they have put in. A common problem I see is that an agent is overly optimistic about what a seller will Net from the sale if they list their house in an effort to get a listing. When the seller does list, and the house doesn’t sell, they start to work on the seller for a price reduction, with other price reductions to follow until the house sells or the listing expires. This can create a very unrealistic expectation for a seller of what they think they will Net from the sale of the house. Marketing your house For Sale By Owner. There certainly is an appeal to marketing your house yourself and hopefully saving the 5 to 7% commissions that would be paid to a real estate agent. This hopeful savings can disappear very quickly though. The bottom line is, you still need to do something to attract a buyer. How will you attract potential buyers? A sign in the yard, with maybe a flyer box? Newspaper ads or other publication? Flyers at work or in stores or businesses in the area? Do you have the abilities to get your house “online” and exposed to everyone looking for a house to buy on the internet? One way or the other, you need to get out the message that your house is for sale to attract potential buyers. A seller may get lucky, and combined with a hot housing market, be able to find a buyer. More likely however, this will require time, money, and a good deal of effort to be successful in finding a buyer. If you are fortunate enough to find a buyer, are they actually able to buy the house? Do they have the funds or ability to get a loan to buy? One of the most frustrating things when selling a house is to find a buyer, be told that they have been pre-approved for a loan, only to find out this so called “pre approval” was conditional on a number of items that the lender hasn’t bothered to Continues on Next Page
Health, Wealth & Wisdom
The Leading Information Source for Seniors in the Entire Tampa Bay Area ! Looking for medical or financial information? Relevant news for seniors or mature adults? Or just a healthy perspective on life & intelligent discussion?
Tune in as Evan and Deb bring the experts that will enhance your everyday life and bring a smile to your face.
Monday - Friday from 7-9 pm on 1250am WHNZ radio We want to hear your Voice…Call-ins welcome!
follow us on Facebook and Twitter www.seniorvoiceamerica.com Deb and Evan
octoBER 2015
Senior Voice America
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check yet. It seems that many lenders don’t collect all the information needed from the potential sold, but allow the seller to remain in the house until they are ready to move. buyer to make a final decision about the loan until the buyer has found a house to buy and has a The buyer will allow a seller to leave whatever “stuff” they may want to leave in the house contract to buy it. when they move. This is one item that will make it easier for a seller to move. The seller doesn’t By the way, this can also happen with buyers when listing a house with an agent, when have to worry about leaving the house spotless, like when selling to a traditional buyer. the agent doesn’t know what they should be asking of the buyer and/or agent. The buyer can customize or tailor an offer or solution to what a seller really needs. Some Also, depending upon the current economic and lending climate, loans may be more dif- times these needs are different than just a cash purchase, and it takes a true professional comficult for buyers to secure. The banks and underwriters may get more selective of who they give pany to be able to provide the best offer and solution for each seller. loans to. Something like this is out of our control. A good, professional company will have experience working with probate or estate situations Does your potential buyer have an agent? Even if you do not have an agent to list the and be able to provide a great service to assist a seller in navigating these types of situations. house, many buyers are still represented by an agent and will want the seller to pay the buyer’s They can assist in arranging for a moving company to make the move as stress free as possible. agent commission. As with many things, this is negotiable, but if you have an agent bring you a One big benefit of working with a professional house buying company is that you are in conbuyer and you want to sell, you will likely end up paying the commission. trol of the sale. You decide when to sell. You decide when to move. And, you are likely to have buyers that will attempt to negotiate a lower price knowing that you’re not using an agent. The potential buyer knows you are trying to save the 5 to 7% for Author Ben Souchek is the foremost authority on the realities of what to expect when sellnot using an agent, and they will likely look to reduce the price of the house by at least that ing a house. For additional information go to www.DownsizeMyHouseBook.com. much. Again this is negotiable, but you’ll have to decide how much you want to sell the house, how much they want to buy the house, and hope for the best outcome. Selling to a company that “buys houses”. Selling to a company that buys houses, like the other avenues, has its positives and negatives. The negatives; Real or perIF YOU ceived thought that a seller may net less from the sale of their house than if HAVE they sell with an agent or FSBO, the thought of “all those investor buyers do is give low ball offers,” the thought of if they tell me they can buy for cash will they actually be able to, does this person or company really know what they’re doing, etc. The positives; can sell my house quickly, can sell my house “as is” and don’t have to worry about doing any repairs or updating, Just like the other selling avenues, if a seller contacts or is contacted by a non professional company or buyer, it could be a less than satisfactory outcome. I have encountered buyers that said they could buy with cash, but realized later the only way they could do that was to apply for a loan or line of credit on the house they were buying, therefore not a cash buyer at all. To protect yourself with this type of situation, ask for a proof of funds or at least contact the title company you are closing with as a reference and ask if the buyer is “real” and if they can do what they say they can. Some buyers will also make an offer for a house, and then nickel and dime a seller by deducting the closing costs, fees, etc. like an agreement through a real estate agent would after * the fact, sometimes significantly changing the net amount a seller thought they would receive from the sale. Some buyers will even give a seller an offer for their house without even looking at the house. A seller should look at this with skepticism and ask the question of how would this potential buyer be able to make an offer without even seeing the house? Some of the positives, when working with a professional home buying company can be; They truly are a cash buyer and can close quickly or whenever a seller wants them to. They buy a house “as is” and do Just visit the pharmacy, not come back and nickel and dime a and we’ll do the rest. seller unless an inspection shows items the buyer’s own inspection would not be able to discover, such as a founda*Applies to Tier 1 generics. tion inspection or other potentially 13MD0039 hidden item. The buyer can close giving a seller the peace of mind that the house is
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Senior Voice America
octoBER 2015
the plan includes a trust, the plan should also include a “pourover will,” an instrument conveying into trust any assets titled at the time of death in the decedent’s own name (assets not titled in the name of the trust). A trust, unlike a will, has the advantage of shielding the assets held in trust from probate. Assets conveyed into trust by a pourover will are not shielded from probate. What the pourover will accomplishes, however, is to subject the assets to the same dispositive provisions as are stated in the trust, so that they are distributed in accord with the same directives as the assets owned in the name of the trust at the time of death. Without a pourover will, there could ensue a contested and prolonged probate in regard to the non-trust assets. The estate plan may also include a general durable power of attorney. This instrument provides for a designated agent to handle financial transactions on behalf of the signatory while the latter is alive. In previous issues of Senior Voice America, I have discussed GDPOAs and their characteristics (“Pitfalls of General Durable Powers of Attorney,” April 2014, and “General Durable Powers of Attorney and Their Limitations,” August 2015). The previous articles do not discuss one important aspect of GDPOAs, the characteristic of being “springing” or “nonspringing.” Simply put, a springing GDPOA is one that, by its own terms, takes effect only upon some well-described future occurrence. Usually, that occurrence is the signatory’s incapacity. A non-springing GDPOA takes effect as soon as executed and conveys the authority to transact in the signatory’s assets to the designated agent immediately. The springing GDPOA may seem a good choice for people who are not sure they want power over their property to accrue to someone else while they are capable. However, springing GDPOAs are becoming more uncommon; the non-springing type, more and more, is the only GDPOA that an estate planner will prepare for a client. The reason is that, increasingly, financial institutions, such as banks, where a GDPOA will be presented and which will be asked to honor the GDPOA’s terms, will not accept a GDPOA that explicitly says it is to take effect on the signatory’s incapacity. Why not? Well, imagine that a dispute eventually arises between the estate of the signatory and the survivors who feel too much of the property was removed from the signatory’s assets before death by use of the GDPOA. The lawyer for the angry survivors may take the bank to court and may grill the bank’s representative in a manner suggesting that the bank did not act responsibly to conserve the assets. The lawyer could demand, “Why did you honor this instrument at that time? What made you think it was in effect at that time?” The representative might reply that the bank understood that the signatory was incapacitated at the time. To that, the lawyer might retort, “How did you know the signatory was incapacitated then? Are you a doctor?” One can readily see why banks are less and less comfortable with honoring a springing GDPOA. If you are creating an estate plan or have created one and it includes a springing GDPOA, check with the financial institutions that manage your assets. Be sure they are still honoring the springing type before you include a springing GDPOA among your documents. If they are not, it is a good idea to include a non-springing GDPOA in the estate plan, in case assets have to be mobilized for your care while you are still living but incapacitated (such as in your final illness). Only create a GDPOA if the agent you name therein is absolutely, completely trustworthy. Other documents that an estate plan should include are healthcare advance directives. In most states, at a minimum, these include a separate “living will” (aka Hospital Directive), and a healthcare power of attorney. A living will does not name an agent. It is addressed to healthcare institutional staff and is intended to take effect when the signatory is terminal—not expected to survive a medical situation. The purpose of the living will is to put on record any limitations the signatory prefers to impose on active care in a terminal situation, such as refusing tube-feeding or respirator intervention. A healthcare power of attorney, on the other hand, names an agent. It addresses the potential situation in which the signatory needs lengthy care and cannot make his or her own decisions about that care due to incapacity, yet is not terminal. The designated agent stands in the shoes of the signatory to consult with medical providers in those circumstances. I have seen form versions of healthcare directives that attempt to combine the functions of a living will with a healthcare power of attorney in a single form. Usually, such forms are confusing. Most, moreover, are not sufficiently explicit in their terms to give adequate direction to medical providers. A medical provider will shrug and ignore a living will that merely refuses “heroic measures,” for instance, because to a medical provider, that phrase is meaningless. A living will should state that when terminal, the signatory either refuses or allows tube-feeding, respirator intervention, antibiotics to treat infection, IV fluids, transfusions, etc. And it is preferable that the healthcare power of attorney be a separate instrument, since it addresses an entirely separate situation. If the individual does not want to be revived or resuscitated by paramedics (an ambulance crew) if found unresponsive, the estate plan should also include an instrument known as the “DNR-DNI” (“donot-resuscitate-do-not-intubate”) form. The rules for its format and content differ from state to state. A good estate planning professional should know how to prepare one correctly, and, together with the full-sized form, should provide a wallet card version. From ESTATE Page 1
Joyce Holly is a retired attorney and the author of “Ten Stupid Things Aging Americans Do to Mess Up Their Lives and Financial Situation.” She is also the author of the novel, “An Inconvenient Old Woman.” Holly’s books are available for purchase on amazon.com.
octoBER 2015
Senior Voice America
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Entertainment Metropolitan Opera Live and Encore in HD: Il Trovatore: Encore
Regal Park Place Stadium 16 October 7
The MET series presents Verdi’s Il Trovatore. Also being shown at Hyde Park Cinebistro in Tampa, Woodland Square 20 in Oldsmar, Citrus Stadium 20 in Tampa, Royal Palm 20 in Bradenton, Regency 20 in Brandon and Grove 16 in Wesley Chapel. 6:30 p.m. Tickets: $24, $22 seniors, $18 students, $16 children (live); $18 (encore). Regal Park Place Stadium is located at 7200 U.S. 19 N, Pinellas Park, FL. Last of the Red Hot Lovers
Jimmy Ferraro’s Studio Theatre October 9 -11
A middle aged, overweight man tries to join the sexual revolution, but his attempts to seduce three women fail hilariously in this Neil Simon comedy. Fri. & Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2:30 p.m. Tickets: $28. The Jimmy Ferraro’s Studio Theatre is located at 5732 Main St., New Port Richey, FL. Giselle
Tampa Ballet Theatre October 9 - 11
Tampa Ballet Theatre will be debuting their 2015-2016 season with the production of the ballet Giselle. Giselle is a dark, classical romantic ballet about a young peasant girl who dies of a broken heart after discovering that her lover is engaged to another. The Willis, a group of spirits of young women who dance men to death, summon Giselle from her grave. They target her lover, but Giselle saves him from the wrath of the Willis. This classical ballet will be re-staged by Artistic Director, Lindsay Clark. Oct. 9 & 10 7:00 p.m., Oct. 11 - 2:00 p.m. Tickets: $25.00 The Tampa Ballet Theatre is located at 12720 Dupont Circle, Tampa, FL. For more information (813) 814-0587. Florida Orchestra Pops: A Night at the Oscars
Straz Center October 9 Ruth Ecker Hall October 11
New Music Director Michael Francis opens the pop series with a selection of award-winning music from films including, The Godfather, Rocky and more. 8:00 p.m. Second Annual Sarasota Choral Festival
First United Methodist Church October 10
The 110+ voices of Key Chorale join with local choirs and singers, creating a festival of sound. Key Chorale members will sing works by several contemporary composers including Fair Ines by Eric Barnum, Jubilate Deo by Peter Anglea, Peace Flows Into Me (Sara Teasdale) by Jake Runestad, and Lux Nova (‘Lux Aurumque’ Reimagined) by Eric Whitacre. 4:00 p.m. Tickets: $20 Adults / $10 Students. First United Meth. Church is located at 104 S. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota, FL. Tickets available online www.KeyChorale.org or at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall Box Office. Hispanic Heritage Concert
Coachman Park October 11
Singer-songwriter, Olga Tañòn, known for hits in pop ballads, meringue, salsa and boogaloo headlines a day of family-friendly activities and a variety of Latin-inspired, local food vendors. Other performers include Cuban-inspired, international recording group Gente De Zona and more. Lawn chairs and blankets are permitted. 12:00 p.m.
Tickets: $20, $25 day of; $75-$85 VIP. Coachman Park is located at 301 Drew St., Clearwater, FL. (800) 514-3849 or www.myclearwater.com. Imperial Symphony Orchestra Tea and Symphony
The Lakeland Center - Lake Hunter Room October 13
Tea and Symphony Rehearsal. Sip a cup of tea, enjoy a glass of wine and mingle at the ISO’s music enrichment programs or pre-concert lectures. Maestro Mark Thielen invites you to learn more about the life, times and music of each concert’s featured composers and guest artists. 5:45 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Tickets: $36 - $46 (per series.) Clearwater Jazz Holiday
Coachman Park October 15
prodigy. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $20. Metropolitan Opera Live and Encore in HD: Otello
Park Place Stadium 16 October 17 & 21
The MET series features Verdi’s Otello. Also being shown at Hyde Park Cinebistro in Tampa, Woodland Square 20 in Oldsmar, Citrus Stadium 20 in Tampa, Royal Palm 20 in Bradenton, Regency 20 in Brandon and Grove 16 in Wesley Chapel. Oct. 17, 12:55 p.m., on Oct. 21, 6:30 p.m. Tickets: $24, $22 seniors, $18 students, $16 children (live); $18 (encore). Park Place Stadium 16 is located at 7200 U.S. 19 N., Pinellas Park, FL. For more information (727) 525-7777. A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder
Straz Center - Carol Morsani Hall October 20 - 25
The 36th annual four day event features a variety of jazz artists performing on the beautiful waterfront setting of Coachman Park. This year’s headliners include Sheryl Crow, The O’Jays, Gladys Knight, Buddy Guy, The Avett Brothers, Big Sam’s Funky Nation and many more. 4:30 p.m. Tickets: $15-$150, 12 and younger free. Coachman Park is located at 301 Drew St., Clearwater, FL.
The 2012 Tony Award winner for Best Musical tells the hilarious story of Monty Navarro, a distant heir to a family fortune who sets out to slay his way through the line of succession, and be done in time for tea. Tue. - Thur., 7:30 p.m., Fri. & Sat., 8:00 p.m., Sun. 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $40-$95.
Alvin and the Chipmunks Live!
ISOrchestra: Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4
Mahaffey Theater October 15
The Lakeland Center - Youkey Theatre October 20
The world famous chipmunk trio is joined by the “Chipettes” to present rock hits by One Direction, Maroon 5, Carly Rae Jepson and Elvis Presley. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $27.50-$57.50. Rick Springfield
Van Wezel Perf. Arts Hall October 15
For all of his accomplishments as an actor, best-selling author, and documentary subject, Rick Springfield’s first love is music. He has toured for over 30 years and this year he returns to Sarasota with his hits! His concerts are legendary with their rock-heavy, high-energy full-band sets. He has sold 25 million records and has 17 top-40 hits, including “Don’t Talk to Strangers,” “An Affair of the Heart,” “I’ve Done Everything for You,” “Love Somebody and Jessie’s Girl.” 8:00 p.m. Tickets: $60 - $70. Ringling International Arts Festival
Asolo Repertoire Theatre October 15 - 18
The four-day festival of contemporary music, theater and dance presents seven performances that represent the many and varies cultures of Asia. Included in the ticket price is free admission to the galleries and gardens, as well as Jazz Sunsets and Gatehouse Gatherings. Acts include: Ronnarong Khampa, Peni Candra Rini, Jen Shyu - Solo Rites: Seven Breaths, The Cambodian Circus, Orkes Sinten Remen, TAO Dance Theatre. Contact theatre for show times. Tickets: $30-$35; $27-$31.50 members. Asolo Repertoire Theatre is located at 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL. Deathtrap: A Thriller-Two Acts
Ruth Eckerd Hall October 15 - 18 & 22 - 24
Deathtrap: A Thriller In Two Acts by Ira Levin. How far would you go for success? Once-great playwright, Sidney Bruhl, is struggling to regain his glory and create another hit thriller. Unfortunately, the well has run dry – until Clifford (one of his former students) asks for advice on the play that he’s written. Clifford’s work is brilliant, so Sidney invites him to his secluded home to review the play… but might have something more sinister planned for his young
The ISO will debut it’s 50th season with “Overture to a New Day,” commissioned for the ISO’s anniversary. Guest artist Andy Liu, a graduate of Harrrison School for the Arts who also studied with Robert MacDonald, will perform “Schumann’s Piano Concerto in a minor.” 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $15 - $35. Jason Aldean
MidFL Credit Union Amphitheatre October 23
The reigning three-time ACM Male Vocalist, cowboy hat-wearing country star comes to Tampa during his Burn It Down tour with openers, Cole Swindell, Tyler Farr and Dee Jay Silver. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $25.50-$65.50 through Ticketmaster. TFO Masterworks: Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons
Straz Center October 23
Featuring violin and leader, Lara St. John the program will also include Bach’s Violin Concerto No. 2 and The Four Seasons of Buenos Aires by Piazzolla. 8:00 p.m. Silence! The Musical
Straz Center October 23
This unauthorized parody of The Silence of the Lambs has power ballads about decapitated heads, dancing serial killers and musical numbers like Papa Shtarling and Are You About a Size 14? 8:00 p.m. Tickets: $28. UB40
Mahaffey Theater October 23
The pioneering reggae-pop group now featuring Ali Campbell, Astro and Mickey Vitrue will perform all the hits that catapulted them to the forefront including, Red, Red Wine, (I Can’t Help) Falling In Love, Kingston Town, One In Ten and Food For Thought. 8:00 p.m Tickets: $42.50-$175. 95.7 Beats By The Bay
Vinoy Park October 24
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Entertainment Sexy singer-actor, Tyrese Gibson whose latest album Black Rose debuted at No.1 will headline the inaugural R & B festival. Joining him on the lineup are Anthony Hamilton, Blackstreet, 112, Whodini and Rob Base. 5:00 p.m. Tickets: $45.50-$250. Vinoy Park is located at 501 Fifth Ave. NE., St. Petersburg, FL.
Advance tickets are $13 per person/ $15 at the door, includes dessert and coffee. Temple Beth David is located at 13158 Antelope St., Spring Hill, FL.
The Ultimate Doo Wop Show
The Grammy Award-winning Latin pop star is touring in support of his new album, “A Quien Quiera Escuchar.” 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $24-$126. The Amway Ctr. is located at 400 W Church St., Orlando, FL.
Van Wezel Perf. Arts Hall October 24
Original artists from the recent recordbreaking PBS-TV music specials, “50 Years of Doo-Wop” are back on the road performing live, treating concert-goers to the songs they danced to at sock hops, while allowing younger audiences to discover that DooWop is feel-good music no matter what your age. An impressive list of those original artists who will be part of The Ultimate Doo-Wop Show are: Lou Christie (Lightnin’ Strikes, The Gypsy Cried, Two Faces Have I, Rhapsody in the Rain), The Original Drifters (On Broadway, There Goes My Baby, This Magic Moment, Some Kind of Wonderful), Jimmy Beaumont & The Skyliners (Since I Don’t Have You, Pennies from Heaven, This I Swear), The Crystals (Da Doo Ron Ron, Then He Kissed Me, He’s a Rebel), The Edsels (Rama Lama Ding Dong),and Rockin’ Robin’s Rhythm Kings (Buzz, Buzz, Buzz, Harlem Nocturne). 8:00 p.m. Tickets: $45.66 - $77.76. PNC Bank Concert: The Svyati Duo
University of Tampa Sykes Chapel October 25
This year’s series includes performances by organist Eric Plutz with The Tampa Brass, The Svyati Duo, comprised of cellist Rebecca Hepplewhite and organist Julian Collings and many more. Free. Sykes Chapel is located at 401 W Kennedy Blvd., Tampa, FL. Temple Beth David monthly show
Temple Beth David October 25
John Timpanelli and cast pay tribute to some of the great songwriters who were great singers, including Neil Sedaka, Paul Anka, Barry Manilow, Peter Allen and Elton John to name a few. 2:00 p.m. Tickets:
Ricky Martin
Amway Center October 25
So You Think You Can Dance
Ruth Eckerd Hall October 27
The Primetime Emmy®Award-winning show So You Think You Can Dance returns to Ruth Eckerd Hall for its Season 12 Tour. Featuring the Top 10 finalists, fall’s hottest ticket will include this season’s most popular routines as well as original pieces created specifically for the nationwide tour. The Season 12 tour lineup includes the following Top 10 finalists: Team Stage’s Gaby Diaz, Edson Juarez, Jim Nowakowski, Hailee Payne and Derek Piquette; and Team Street’s Megan “Megz” Alfonso, Eddie “Neptune” Eskridge, Virgil Gadson, Jessica “JJ” Rabone and Jana “Jaja” Vankova. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $43.25 - $160*. * Dinner Package includes a premium seat, pre-show dinner and a voucher for free valet parking. Valet service begins 15 minutes before pre-show dinner doors open. Artist does not appear at dinner. Other special VIP packages available. Kansas 2nd Show
Capitol Theatre October 28 & 29
Don’t you cry no more! After four decades, countless hit songs and thousands of performances, Kansas will play at the intimate Capitol Theatre for the very first time in October. Kansas, a “garage band” from Topeka released their debut album in 1974 after being discovered by Wally Gold. The band has produced eight gold albums, three platinum albums (Leftoverture, Point of Know Return, Best of Kansas), one platinum live album (Two for the Show) and a
million-selling gold single Dust in the Wind. Kansas appeared on the Billboard charts for over 200 weeks throughout the ‘70s and ‘80s and played to sold-out arenas and stadiums in North America, Europe and Japan. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $39.50 $69.50. A limited number of Meet & Greet Experiences and Premium Merchandise Packages are available from the Kansas Fan Club. Capitol Theatre is located at 405 Cleveland St., Clearwater, FL. Taylor Swift
Raymond James Stadium October 31
Taylor Swift brings her 1989 World Tour to the Tampa Bay area with guest artists Vance Joy and Shawn Mendez. 7:00 p.m. Tickets $80 - $220. Raymond James Stadium is located at 4201 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa, FL. TFO: Halloween Pops
Straz Center, Carol Morsani Hall October 30 Ruth Eckerd Hall November 1
It’s a night of symphonic sounds and soaring songs from such Broadway shows as The Phantom of the Opera, Jekyll and Hyde, Sweeney Todd, Cats, and Beauty and the Beast...along with music from films, including Harry Potter, Star Wars, The Witches of Eastwick and more. Jeff Tyzik conducts. Oct. 30, 8:00 p.m. Tickets: $15 $45. Nov. 1, 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $17.50 $47.50. America’s Got Talent Live
Capitol Theatre November 4
The exciting debut tour will include some of the show’s most captivating and entertaining talent including Season 8’s favorite comedian, Taylor Williamson, Season 9’s powerhouse performer Emily West, Season 8’s comedic hand balancing duo The KriStef Brothers and the memorable “junk rock” performers, Recycled Percussion, from Season 4, with more acts to be announced soon. This live event will provide thrills for the whole family and excite audiences across country. 7:00 p.m. Tickets: $35 - $60. VIP packages available.
VENUE ADDRESSES AND CONTACT INFORMATION FL Studio Theatre 1241 North Palm Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236 (941) 366-9000 www.floridastudiotheatre.org Midflorida Credit Union Amphitheatre 4802 N. US Highway 301 Tampa, FL 33610 Telephone: (813) 740-2446. www.midflorida.com/amphitheatre The Historic Capitol Theatre 405 Cleveland Street Clearwater, FL 33755 Telephone: (727) 791-7400. www.rutheckerdhall.com The Lakeland Center — 701 W. Lime St. Lakeland, FL 33815. Telephone: (863) 834-8100 www.thelakelandcenter.com The Mahaffey Theater — 400 1st. St. South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. Telephone: (727) 892-5798. www.themahaffey.com Ruth Eckerd Hall — 1111 McMullen Booth Rd. Clearwater, FL 33759. Telephone: (727) 791-7400. www.rutheckerdhall.com The Straz Center — 1010 North Macinnes Place, Tampa, FL 33602. Telephone: (813) 229-7827. www.strazcenter.org Amelie Arena 401 Channelside Dr. Tampa, FL 33602. Telephone: (813) 301-6500. www.ameliearena.com American Stage Theatre 163 3rd Street North St. Petersburg, FL 33701 Telephone: (727)823-7529 www.americanstage.org Van Wezel Perf. Arts Hall 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236 (941) 953-3368 www.vanwezel.org
When It Comes to Entertaining Get out from behind your mask and list your Event for Free right here on the SVA ENTERTAINMENT PAGES!
Email your event information no later than the 15th of the month for the following month listings to: entertainment@seniorvoiceamerica.com
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Senior Voice America
octoBER 2015
Senior to Senior Woman Seeking Man NS SD 60’s ISO active, healthy, caring SOH M 58 75. I am spunky, kind, considerate, good attitude. I like walks, outdoors, music, dancing, just enjoying each other’s company. Lets live, love, laugh. North Tampa Area. (813) 312-7647. W W F, 62, 5’8”, XL, NS, ND, honest, pretty, professional ISO LTR 58 – 67 degreed, like reading, movies, art, dining out, travel. St. Pete (727) 545-9058. SBWF C, petite, attractive, fun and healthy, ISO 60 plus NS, caring, thoughtful gentleman to share movies, museums, concerts, travel, dining and conversation. Serious replies only. Clearwater (727) 398-8222. Meet single seniors of all ages nationwide, seeking lifetime companionship. For details call (800) 884-4256. DWF NS, young looking, 5’2,125lbs, likes reading, movies, long walks, dining in or out. ISO WM, healthy, Christian, SOH for LTR. Tampa. (813) 362-2427. SWF SD NS 60’s, spunky, good attitude, kind, loyal, thoughtful, frugal, ISO healthy active countryish M 5875. Likes walks, music, dancing, exercise, enjoying each other’s company, quiet times. North Tampa Area. (813) 312-7647. DWF Princess seeking her Prince. Honest, sincere in 50’s. In shape, great SOH. Love animals, cooking, the beach and more. No head games. No drugs. Looking for the same in my Prince. Pasco County. (727) 364-9304 or leave v.m. DWFM young at heart 55 yrs - old fashioned, honest, very sincere lady ISO sincere man that loves company, going out places and not ashamed to show your love. Call me. Tampa. (813) 802-5640. WFWD SOH like friend about the same 73 -78. Animal lover, watch out for each other, go for walks, short trips, dancing, a.s.on. I’m German. Tired of being alone. Lakeland-Winterhaven. Please give me a call (863) 686-4742.
man Seeking WOMan M NS, SD seeking a nice lady in her 70’s or 80’s in good health, I’m 78 and lonesome. In good health, romantic, passionate about life. Prefer Tampa. (813) 654-0164. SWM 77 NS 5’10 172lbs, attractive, good health, Christian, likes travel, reading, music, easy to get along with. Dunedin Area. (973) 885-8013. I am an 85 year old widower 5’8 tall looking for a lady that likes music. I live in Kings Point part of Sun City Center, Florida. Looking for a lady that lives in Kings Point or Sun City Center. (813) 282-6796. M, WD, ISO Woman for intimate relationship close to or in Zephyrhills. (813) 395-6812. DBM 68 looking for lovely female friend to share life’s beauty. Come as you are. (Baby Boomers) welcome. St. Petersburg. (727) 579-0175. WMD, 5’9 170lbs, lean machine and clean. 65 looking for committed relationship 55 to 65. N.S., S.D. for hugs and kisses in Pinellas Park. Movies, Dinners, Flea Markets, walks. SOH. Love comes natural. Pinellas Park, FL. (727) 460-4113. Retired outdoorsman, healthy SWM ISO healthy WF nature lover for hiking, camping, visiting Florida Springs, road trips, size unimportant. Just be fit. I’m 6’ HWP. LTR. Serious calls only. St. Pete Area. (727) 501-4093.
Senior to Senior Abbreviations M: Male F: Female S: Single D: Divorced WD: Widowed W: White B: Black H: Hispanic J: Jewish
Meet that Someone Special with a FREE listing right here in
Senior to Senior
C: Christian ISO: In Search Of LTR: Long Term Relationship NS: Non-Smoker ND: Non-Drinker SD: Social Drinker SOH: Sense of Humor
not a sugar daddy. Holiday, FL. (727) 938-6990. DBM 68, NS, ND, Retired, Healthy, ISO Asian Female 55 – 65 for sincere long term friendship and more. I am easy going, laid back and wanting to enjoy the remaining years. Oldsmar. (813) 304-3975. SWM 54 NS Down to Earth. I like Flea Markets, Music. I am ISO A S F who is honest, fun, loving, for a LTR. New Port Richey. (727) 271-6644. J W M 55 ISO J F for LTR – J.P., P.O. Box 8487, Tampa FL 33674. (no phone). S,M,W Tall, Slim, 82 years old, ISO slightly younger lady, W – C, F, NS, SD, SOH a must to be able to cope with this old coot who needs a partner for dinner, theatre, friendship, etc. I am mobile – mostly around Sun City Center. 2609 Newcomb Ct, Sun Ciety Ctr, FL 33573-8002. (no phone). SWM NS Well groomed, young 62 ISO LTR with female. I am a little country and a little city. A lot funny and a lot serious. Enjoy fun indoors and out. Palm Harbor. 727-742-4801. WMS 65, 175lbs NS seeks lady companion LTR 55 to 65 NS to share the good things in life and warm relationship in Pinellas Park or close to. S.O.H. Retired handy man, financially secure. Pinellas Park. 727-460-4113. Retired Gentleman ISO female for auto road trips, bus trips, cruises, share adventures, excitement, expenses. Serious replies only please. Madeira Beach, St Pete Area. (727) 501-4093.
M WD NS SOH. Active 70, like to travel, dancing. friend Seeking friend Zest for life, age, race not important, walks on beach, dinWFWD SOH like friend about the same 73 -78. Animal ing out. Please call. Pasco County. (315) 405-2406. Are we compatible? Single Virile 5’11, 165lbs. Keltic lover, watch out for each other, go for walks, short trips, Healthy Grandpa, NS, ND, Non- Religious. I am a listener, dancing, a.s.on. I’m German. Tired of being alone. Lakeland-Winterhaven. Please give me a call (863) 686-4742. thinker, independent, Democrat. I care, I am honorable, positive, alive, active, fun Senior to Senior™ loving. Call me to talk about happy times. St. Petersburg. Mail to: Senior Voice America (727) 235-0166. P.O. BOX 1379, Lutz, FL 33548-1379 SWM looking for FeEmail: sr2sr@seniorvoiceamerica.com male 70 plus. I am 5’9 200lb, good shape looking Fax: (813) 422-7966 for LTR. Retired, love to dance, beach, tv, movies, flea markets. Call to talk. Dunedin. (727) 560-6922. I am 66yrs and want slim lady any age, independent, nice and enjoys life and intimacy. I am a nice person but
EMAIL: sr2sr@seniorvoiceamerica.com
octoBER 2015
Senior Voice America
From LIFE Page 1 you love and care about. In no way does this mean you will ignore the well being of all around you. On the contrary, we know from Viktor Frankl, Irving Yalom and many great thinkers, existential philosophers focused on conscious choices for meaning in this life, that service to others is the surest path to happiness. Many who could afford to engage in lavish self-indulgence have chosen instead to devote themselves to causes and service to their fellow men and women and derive enduring satisfaction from doing so. The list of such notables is long. Examples include former presidents Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton, investors Bill Gates and Warren Buffett, and celebrities Sonny Bono and Angelina Jolie. Here’s what Apple CEO Tim Cook told a graduating class at George Washington University on May 17 of this year: “There are problems that need to be solved, injustices that need to be ended, people that are still being persecuted, diseases still in need of cures. No matter what you do next, the world needs your energy, your passion, your impatience with progress. History rarely yields to one person, but think and never forget what happens when it does. That can be you. That should be you.” You might go one more step: Learn about and adopt a wellness lifestyle. Then you will truly make the most of your possibilities. While there will be no ultimate, cosmic and pre-ordained purpose to your life, you will have filled your time with extraordinary meaning and purpose of your own design. May your life be epic and triumphant. Don Ardell lives in St. Petersburg, Fla.. He is a world champion triathlete and the author of 16 books on quality of life, as well as the publisher of the Ardell Wellness Report. He recently spoke on meaninglessness at the 2015 performance of “Ignite Tampa Bay.”
in the community Abilities Guild to Host “Dancing Through the Decades” To Benefit Abilities, Inc. The Abilities Guild invites you to show your support of our veterans by joining their “Dancing Thru the Decades” celebration. It is being held on Saturday, Nov. 7, 2015 at the Belleair Country Club, located at 1 Country Club Ln, Belleair, FL, 33756. All proceeds benefit the Abilities Guild Veterans Mall. The evening will begin at 6:00 p.m. with a cocktail hour (cash bar), hors d’oeuvres, and silent auction. Dinner will follow and include complimentary wine. Shimmy, swing, rock, pop, twirl: Dance the night away with live entertainment! Cocktail or costume attire. Reservations required, tickets are $100 per person and angel patron tickets are $150. Seating is limited. For more information or to make reservations, call Jodi Martino at (727) 244-7971. Abilities, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit support organization that has helped thousands of Floridians and military veterans with disabilities obtain jobs and affordable housing. Thanks to Abilities, people with disabilities who were once dependent upon government and families for support are now contributing to the economic strength and vitality of their communities as wage-earners and taxpayers.
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The Art of Fine Italian Cuisine 232 N. Dale Mabry Hwy • Tampa, FL 33609
813.875.6660
www.donatellorestaurant.com
Tampa’s Authentic Italian Restaurant since 1984
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Senior Voice America
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