Senior Voice - Februry 2011 by Senior Voice America

VOL. 31 • NO. 2

COMPLIMENTARY COPY

FEBRUARY 2011

Florida’s Leading Newspaper For Active, Mature Adults

Discover Your Family History By Matthew Wiseman, Editor Senior Voice of Florida I never met Vesta Darst. She died in 1964, about four years before I was born. Vesta is my great grandmother, so I owe her my existence; but I also owe her my entire family history. Had she been Bonnie Smith, my first cousin, 2x removed, born about the same time as Vesta, I never would have tied my branch of the family tree to one of three larger Wiseman family trees in the United States. Without her, I could never trace my history back to Revolutionary America and possibly the court of Henry VIII. I first took an interest in genealogy in 1997. I was attending the funeral of an aunt in Southern Ohio, and my dad introduced me to one of his cousins, Donald Wiseman of South Shore, Ky. Dad told me Donald was the “family historian,” and the two of us talked for more than an hour about our shared history — something I knew very little about. I gave Donald my address in Florida; and a week later I got a package that included photocopies of old computer printouts and handwritten family charts going back to about 1900. I read them over and added a little I learned from some water damaged pages of a family Bible I found in my grandmother’s house. One of the names on Donald’s chart was Vesta Darst. In 2001, when my wife was pregnant with our first boy, I started to look through the family charts again, searching for a name to give our son. I got curious about our family history beyond what Donald gave me, so I turned to the internet, which had matured considerably since the late ‘90s. I was scanning a Wiseman Family Tree online and the name Vesta Darst popped up. That tree showed her marriage to my great grandfather, James Franklin

Wiseman, but it listed no children. In that moment, I discovered more than 200 years of history. That one connection took me back to Colonial America and Berks County, Pa. Since then, my interest in genealogy has grown to obsession. More than once, I’ve worked through the night on a lead to document the life of a relative. And with the tools available today, it’s easy to discover and document hundreds of years of history in a way you can share it with anyone, including grandchildren yet to come. I’ve gotten most of my history worked out with free services and interviews with family members. I’ll outline some of those free services in this article. Any genealogy project begins with the people and records within reach. Once you have all your notes together, you’ll eventually want to take advantage of Ancestry.com, the premier website for genealogy. There is a monthly fee for Ancestry. com. It’s about $20, but you can turn the service on and off; so if you’ll be away for the summer, turn it off till you come back. Your account will remain. Still, you’ll want to download your file just to be safe. Before taking on the expense of Ancestry.com, I recommend starting with the family around you… parents, grandparents, cousins, aunts and uncles. Try to get a basic chart of your generation, the succeeding generation and the preceding generation. Family Bibles are great resources. The information you want is at least dates of birth and death. If you can find marriage dates, that helps, too. The great thing about Ancestry.com is that it has digitized thousands of records from all over the world. Census records are online — along with birth, death and marriage records. Even military records are online.

This photo taken about 1890 went without identification until a cousin carefully removed it from a frame to see the notes below. The baby is my great grandfather. This is my grandmother’s handwriting, and it’s clearly a ball-point pen. She probably wrote this note and framed the photo in the 1950s.

My 6x great grandfather (b. 1759) served in the Revolutionary War. My grandfather holding my father just before going off to serve in the 105th Fleet Hospital on New Caledonia about 1942. My aunt is on the left.

Please See FAMILY, Page 3.

Health Roundup..................... 4-7 Crossword..................................9 Good Life Games......................10 Senior Voice Survey.................11 Senior Happenings............ 12-13

The Florida Orchestra.............14 Senior Fitness..........................15 Dollars and Sense....................16 Living........................................17 Entertainment.................... 18-19

Senior Gourmet.......................20 Senior to Senior......................21 Residences and Services..........22 Classified Ads...........................23 Home Improvement.................23

PAGE 2

Gulfport Tuesday Fresh Market Every week, the Gulfport Tuesday Fresh Market features a variety of plants, herbs and flowers for sale to brighten homes and gardens. Expert gardening advice is free! The Fresh Market takes place 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each Tuesday year-round on Beach Blvd. below 29th Ave. South in Gulfport’s Waterfront Arts District. Mel’s Green Genes Nursery offers an assortment of plants and flowers, specializing in plants that attract and nurture butterflies and other pollinators. Her colorful booth is full of blooming plants ready to display in decorative containers, or ready to find a home in yards and gardens. Mel can tell you all you need to know about attracting butterflies to your little corner of Florida. These colorful varieties are offered at affordable prices for any budget. Two vendors offering herbs and gardening wisdom share a Fresh Market booth in which they alternate from week to week. Every other week, Willow Herbal Delight Gardens brings an enterprise well-known to many Bay Area gardeners. Willow Lamonte is an herbal and organic gardening expert who is always willing to share her wealth of knowledge of all things green. Bring your organic gardening questions to Willow and enjoy a conversation about herbs and their uses and plants and how to care for them. Willow offers a selection of organic culinary and medicinal herb plants from her own gardens, including rare and hard-to-find species. She also sells organic seeds, soil improvements and an assortment of books on organic gardening and green living. Children’s books on nature and gardening are one of her specialties. Alternating weeks with Willow is Organic Living, offering organic herb, fruit, vegetable and decorative landscape plants. They also are more than happy to share advice on organic gardening. One of their specialties is a line of soil amendments, including a garden mineral mix which includes a long list of trace minerals and elements to boost the health and nutrition of garden plants, much in the way that a healthy diet and vitamins do for people. These unique soil nutrients are far superior to the chemical fertilizers sold in most commercial garden centers. Anyone who appreciates fresh flowers will find something affordable at Karen’s Florist. Karen offers ready-made bouquets starting at only $5. Pick up a dozen roses for only $12. Karen now features a variety of colorful orchids at reasonable prices, each longlasting and easy to care for. Karen can advise you on how to tend your orchids and cut flowers to keep them lovely as long as possible. These will brighten your own home for weeks and they also make a perfect gift for hosts/hostesses. The Fresh Market features nearly 40 other vendors. An assortment of produce is offered, including but not limited to, local, organic and hydroponic fruits and vegetables. Now is the time to buy fresh Florida citrus and strawberries. Other vendors also offer local honey, teas, seafood, cheese, fresh breads, pastries, nuts and granola, gourmet and ethnic foods, candy, bath and body products and much more. Many other unique items are available from over 40 vendors. A variety of local artists and crafters also offer their wares. Live music is always featured during each market. The village in which the Market takes place includes a variety of independent shops, boutiques and restaurants. For more information, contact Daniel Hodge at (727) 366-4086 or email dan@igc.org.

SENIOR VOICE

FEBRUARY 2011

My Family Split and Scandal No one has confirmed this story, but family letters indicate the first generation of Wisemans in America began in about 1700 when Isaac Wiseman was born on board the Canterbury while his GENEALOGY parents crossed from England to the Colonies. I like to tell my wife that as hard as I may be to live with, at least I’ve never taken her to sea in late pregnancy and asked her to give birth during winter on the North Atlantic. Isaac (b. 1700) also had a son Isaac (b. 1738). His sons, Joseph (b. 1759) and John (b. 1760) served in the Revolutionary War. The Rev. John Wiseman served at Valley Forge and was a circuit-riding preacher founding a number of churches including the Old Rehobeth Methodist Church in Monroe County, (West) Virginia. His wife, Sarah Green(e), was apparently a cousin to Gen. Nathanael Greene, Washington’s top general. Joseph Wiseman, my 6x great grandfather, was father to Samuel (b. 1792) who was father to Thomas R. (b. 1816). Here’s where it gets interesting: These folks all lived in and around Monroe County, Virginia, which is in present day West Virginia. There’s quite a history in this region during the Civil War, including a vote about which side to take. Thomas, my 5x great grandfather, was 13 and got involved with 17-year-old Frances Long. The two were married in 1832 — after my 4x great grandfather, William Hamilton Wiseman, was born in 1829. I have found several books on my family history. All of them lose track of Thomas, but not his brothers who were quite well known in Ohio and West Virginia. Census records show he lived in Ohio for a time and that’s where my 4x great grandfather William Hamilton grew up and joined the 27th Ohio Volunteer Infantry in 1861. Thomas moved back to Monroe County about

the time Frances died. He went on to have three more wives and 20+ children. My theory is Thomas and Mary got packed off to Ohio to work his father’s Ohio land grant. No one talked about these two kids or their love child, who grew up in Ohio and worked as a furnaceman in the famous Hanging Rock Region. (Iron was a huge industry in the 19th Century.) While Thomas’ son, William, was fighting for the Union, his brothers, Alexander (b. 1837) and John N. (b. 1840) fought for the Confederacy’s 22nd Virginia Infantry. A father at 13. A son fighting a war against his uncles... that would make for one strange Thanksgiving dinner. Fortunately for me, William fathered nine children before dying in South Carolina after the 27th OVI linked up with Gen. Sherman. He died on the same day Sherman began his push into the Carolinas. I don’t know yet if he died from disease, prior wounds, or of if he was killed in action. Recently, I found a distant cousin online who had the text of three letters from William to his wife during his service in the 27th OVI. The letters say he suffered from malaria, which claimed about two lives for every one who died in battle. The letters also mention some of his children by name and talk about his work as a teamster, running a mule wagon with supplies. One letter makes a political joke about Morgan’s Raid (the only Confederate incursion North of the Ohio River) and a local supporter of Clement Vallandigham, an Ohio politician who supported the right of secession. “I was sorry to hear the Rebs had took John Andres’ horses from him. I don’t know what he’ll do to pack his Vallandigham paper run. I’m sorry they did not get him.”

— Matthew Wiseman, Editor

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PRODUCTION AND PRE-PRESS Potato Communications, Inc. matt@hotpotato.us The Senior Voice of Florida is published monthly and is distributed free of charge, courtesy of its advertisers. Distribution area includes Pinellas, Hillsborough and Pasco counties. Articles and advertising contained in this issue do not necessarily reflect the opinion or endorsement of the publisher, who does not verify advertiser claims and reserves the right to refuse or discontinue any advertising. editor@seniorvoiceflorida.com • www.seniorvoiceflorida.com

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FAMILY, From Page 1. Once a person is deceased, you can find a wealth of information about them — everything from their social security number to where they were born and where they died. With old phone directories and Census records, you can see exactly where they lived and maybe even see the house with Google Street View. Once you enter a person in your family tree on Ancestry.com, the site looks for that person in its records and compares that person to others listed in other user trees. The site gives you hints indicated by a blinking leaf over the person’s name. You look at the hint and decide if it’s a match, accepting or ignoring the hint. There are several computer applications that will help you organize the information, including Family Tree Maker, which costs about $50 and works directly with Ancestry.com if you have a paid account. There are other applications around; but you want one that can import and export GEDCOM files, which is a standardized format for holding family tree information. This is also the kind of file you’ll want to download periodically from Ancestry.com as a backup. Here are some free resources to help you get started: • Google — Start by simply googling names of relatives. It helps if the name is distinctive like my great grandma, Vesta Darst. Also, use a hyphen and no space in the name. That ensures the two or three words in the name follow each other in the text. For instance, the page where I found Vesta Darst can be found by typing the following in Google: “Vesta-ViolaDarst.” Without the hyphens, I would get pages where those three names appear, likely three different people. Now the work begins. For Vesta, the page at Fortunecity.com had little about her. However, it does give me a hyperlink to my great grandfather, and that’s the big piece of the puzzle. Google will also search the Ancestry. com trees that are published by users of the paid site. Keep in mind, that birth and death dates as published are not always accurate. Eventually, you’ll will want to confirm each date with an official document like a birth or death certificate. These “vital records” documents go back a long way — death certifications in particular. Anytime a person’s path crosses government, there is a record. Census, jury duty, taxes, school, wills, deeds… these are all available online once a person is deceased and some time has past. • Google Books — Google has taken on a project of digitizing hundreds of thousands of out-of-print books whose copyright is in the public domain. Google Books also indexes and catalogs many other books that remain under copyright. It’s amazing what you can discover just by typing in names. Just about every town has a book on its history. Your people were probably listed. I’ve had great luck, simply creating a Wiseman family

SENIOR VOICE SENIOR VOICE bibliography and working through that book by book. By googling the titles of books in my bibliography, I found digitized copies of some that Google Books has not scanned. One of them has proved invaluable in completing my tree. • Find-a-Grave — This website, www.findagrave.com, can give you a ton of clues. Volunteers catalog and photograph grave sites. If you know where someone is buried and you can’t find their grave specifically on the site, file a request. A volunteer who lives in that region will create a report for you. Meanwhile, you’ll be invited to take on the same task for others who may need information from a cemetery near you. • Libraries — Most libraries have free access to Ancestry.com. You can’t save items to your user account from the library unless you log in to your paid account, but it still gives you a free way to access all the documents offered by Ancestry.com. If your family has lived in the same place for generations, the library there may have documents and books that will help. There’s a long way to go in cataloging and scanning all these old books. Sometimes, going right to the source is the best approach. University libraries will also have useful collections. • The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints — The church graciously shares its complete genealogy database with the public. It’s free, it’s easy to use and it’s extensive. Regardless of your faith, it’s likely your family is here. Visit www.familysearch.org and give it a try.

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I’ve worked on and off for years, to get the dates for people in my family tree confirmed. I still have work to do on the basics and but I’m also adding photos, letters and newspaper clippings and maps. Once my boys are old enough, we’ll take a trip to the battlefields, churches and capitals where our grandfathers served and died. My oldest son is eight and he’s been studying history at school. Knowing his grandfathers served in World War II, the Civil War and the Revolutionary War gives him a hunger for history he would not have without the personal connection. I think that’s the real value in this hobby. It’s also given me a great chance to reconnect with cousins I have not seen since childhood and to meet new family I never knew existed. Ancestry.com gives you a free twoweek trial. I recommend gathering as much information as you can from the free sources, schedule some time to take advantage of the free trial and see how far you can get. Since this is now a regular hobby for me, I keep my Ancestry.com account on. The site is also accessible from my iPad and iPhone, so I can work on my family tree from anyplace I happen to be. This article is dedicated to Donald Wiseman of South Shore, Ky. His work inspired my hobby. When I made some big discoveries late last year, I tried to contact him and found he had died just a few weeks prior.

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HEALTH ROUNDUP

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ous volunteer opportunities available to help care for patients and families during their most difficult times. In addition to patient care volunteering, other volunteer opportunities are available at Gulfside’s administrative offices and at any of the five Gulfside Regional Hospice Thrift Shoppes. Volunteers must be at least 16 years old to volunteer at the hospice. For more information or to reserve a space for the orientation, call Gulfside’s volunteer coordinators Heather De Los Santos at (813) 780-1235 or Kathie Poole at (727) 845-5707. The mission of Gulfside Regional Hospice is to provide compassionate, quality care to individuals and their loved ones as they face life-limiting illnesses. For more information about Gulfside Regional Hospice services, call (727) 845-5707 or visit www. GRHospice.org.

FEBRUARY 2011

SENIOR VOICE

PAGE 5

HEALTH ROUNDUP

WHO INVENTED PEANUT BUTTER? No-one knows. Nevertheless, the making of peanut butter can be traced back to almost 1000 BC. No word on if it was creamy or crunchy.

Do You Have Swollen Legs? By Mark J. Alkire, M.D., FACS Understanding swollen legs is complex. Healthy leg veins contain valves that open and close to assist with the return of the blood back to the heart. However, if these valves fail, venous reflux disease can develop and the blood flowing out of the legs causes swelling because it is not able to return to the heart properly. With time, the swelling and edema in the feet and the lower portions of the legs can become worse. There can be symptoms which include leg heaviness, fatigue, pain, which can be described as crampy pain. Visually varicose veins and spider veins can continue to get worse. All of these skin changes can ultimately result in skin ulcers. Swollen limbs are initially the start. It is the beginning of a cascade of problems that can be treated. The most important assessment is to understand that superficial venous reflux disease is progressive. The symptoms will worsen over time if they are left untreated.

When talking about the swollen foot the most important aspect is to understand if you are a candidate that can be helped , not only medicine, but also other additional treatments. A common procedure that is used now is called the VNUS closure procedure. The closure procedure is performed on outpatient basis with ultrasound before and after the procedure. The leaking valves and the reflux of blood can be shown to be improved and those areas that have the blood that is not returning to the heart properly can be treated selectively and individually. At the time of this procedure, which is performed in the office, a tiny catheter delivers radiofrequency energy to the vein wall. As this energy is delivered, the catheter is withdrawn and the vein wall is heated causing a scar. This will shrink the vein and the vein will close. Most patients feel that the procedure is quick, it is nearly pain free and they can be active following this type of treatment. More than 95

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SENIOR VOICE

FEBRUARY 2011

HEALTH ROUNDUP

Reduce Your Waist and Waste Improving your waistline and reducing your personal waste are connected in more ways than you’ve probably thought about. Here are four changes you can make to your everyday life that will also make a positive impact on your health and the earth: • Eat local, organic foods. By making sure that you are purchasing locally grown, organic foods, you are also reducing the amount of energy it takes to transport the food to your area. When you eat locally, it means that the food has to travel a much shorter distance to make it onto your plate, therefore reducing its impact on the environment. It also allows you to know that you are eating some of the freshest produce available to you, which are packed with vitamins you need to improve your health. • Drink more water, but ditch the disposable plastic bottle. We often mistake thirst for hunger, so grabbing some water might quench both a craving and your thirst. Water is a far better choice than calorie-ridden sugary beverages. • Eat more fruits and vegetables. The health benefits of increasing the amount of vegetables in your diet are well-documented, as vegetables are a low-fat, low-calorie source of essential nutrients. But did you know that when you eat less meat and more vegetables, you’re also reducing your carbon footprint?

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According to a 2008 Economic Information Bulletin from the USDA, the food market produces hundreds of pounds of meat each year per American to meet demand — an amount that has not been good for our nation’s waistlines. The production of meat uses many more resources than fruits and veggies, which is why Dorfman recommends going meatless at least one day a week. For a fun and healthy way to learn more about how your food is sourced, ride a bike or jog over to a local farmers market. • Power of the pedal, or your feet. On your way to becoming healthier, you’re sure to include exercise in your plan. Sometimes though, exercising can have a greater purpose than just working your muscles and improving cardiovascular health. Consider including daily chores into your workout plan, as it will help you fit in your workout while also leaving your car on the curb. Bike or walk to the grocery store to do your weekly shopping. If you decide to take up the quest to improve both the health of yourself and the planet, you’re not alone. Contestants on NBC’s “The Biggest Loser” are also learning about ways they can help the environment while losing weight this season. Tune into the show and take the FilterForGood Pledge at www.filterforgood.com to learn more and get involved.

Home Remedies: What Works

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Whether motivated by the need to cut costs in an uncertain economy or the desire to simplify their lives, many Americans are looking for information about home remedies and self-care. Mayo Clinic experts offer guidance, both in a new book and online, for anyone interested in trying some home remedies: • Chili pepper seed, when used as a rub applied directly to the skin, may ease aching joints. • Ginger is thought to relieve nausea and many Asian cultures incorporate it into their diets as a digestive aid. • A neti pot, a small pot with a long spout, may help reduce sinus inflammation caused by allergies. • Insomniacs may find relief by inhaling the fragrance of lavender. • Plant-derived compounds like soy have estrogen-like effects that may help ease hot flashes for women going through menopause. • A humidifier may help ward off colds by increasing the moisture in the air of your home. Cold viruses thrive in dry conditions. • Vinegar is thought to reduce nail fungus. Soak your feet for 15 to 20 minutes in a mixture of one part vinegar, two parts warm water. Rinse your feet well and pat dry when done.

The Mayo Clinic Book of Home Remedies also recommends you keep certain items on hand for general care and minor firstaid issues, including: • Bandages of various sizes, gauze, paper or cloth tape, antibacterial ointment and antiseptic solution to deal with cuts. • Cold packs, gauze, burn spray and an antiseptic cream to treat burns. • Aids such as a thermometer, aspirin (for adults only) and acetaminophen for children to treat aches, pain and fever. • Cold packs, elastic wraps and finger splints for sprains, strains and fractures. Remember, however, that serious injuries require treatment from a medical professional. “Home remedies may not be appropriate for treating every situation all the time; when in doubt, it is always best to consult a medical professional,” Hagen says. “But it may be possible to care for minor health issues at home, or to use home remedies to enhance the care you’re already receiving from your doctor.” Mayo Clinic Book of Home Remedies is available at bookstores nationwide. You can find more health guidance on home remedies and many other health issues at www.MayoClinic.com.

FEBRUARY 2011

SENIOR VOICE

PAGE 7

HEALTH ROUNDUP

Tips for Healthy Skin, Hair and Nails Dermatologists are medical doctors who have extensive training, experience and passion for keeping skin, hair and nails healthy throughout a person’s lifetime. Here are 10 tips to keep you healthy looking from head to toe. 1) Protect yourself from the sun. Help prevent signs of aging, such as age spots and fine lines, as well as significantly decrease your risk of developing skin cancer by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing and seeking shade when appropriate. 2) Do not use tanning beds. Ultraviolet light from the sun and tanning beds can cause skin cancer and wrinkling. If you want to look like you’ve been in the sun, consider using a sunless self-tanning product (such as a lotion, foam or spray), but continue to use sunscreen with it. 3) Perform a skin self-exam. Examining your skin for suspicious moles and other lesions could save your life. Use the American Academy of Dermatology’s body mole map, located at www.melanomamonday. org, to record your moles and learn how to perform a proper skin exam. 4) Don’t skip the hair conditioner. Dermatologists recommend using a conditioner after every shampoo. While a conditioner cannot repair hair, it can increase shine, decrease static electricity, improve strength and offer some protection from harmful UV rays. 5) Eat a healthy diet. A diet rich in fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains and other healthy foods can lead to healthier skin. Be sure to include some lean protein in

your diet. Our skin is made of protein, so some protein is necessary for healthy skin. 6) If your skin feels dry, moisturize. After bathing is the best time to moisturize so that you can trap water in the skin. If your skin still feels dry with regular moisturizing after bathing, apply moisturizer a few times throughout the day. 7) Stop smoking. People who smoke expose their skin to toxins that accelerate the aging of their skin. And, the repeat puckering to inhale can cause deep lines around the lips. Frequent squinting to avoid getting smoke in one’s eyes can cause noticeable crow’s feet. 8) Manage stress. To keep your skin looking its best, it is important to effectively manage stress. Chronic stress can wreak havoc on your skin, hair and nails. It can worsen many skin conditions, including psoriasis, acne and rosacea, cause brittle nails and ridging of the nails and lead to hair loss. 9) Don’t bite your fingernails. You can transfer infectious organisms between your fingers and mouth. Also, nail biting can damage the skin around your fingers, allowing infections to enter. 10) If you have acne, do not pick, pop or squeeze the blemishes. People mistakenly believe that picking and popping pimples will get rid of them quickly. The truth is doing any of these can irritate the skin, make acne worse and increase the risk of scarring. For more healthy skin, hair and nail tips, visit the American Academy of Dermatology’s website at www.aad.org.

EAT HEALTHY IN 2011 While lifestyle and diet resolutions are not new, the New Year is still a welcome and opportune time to make a fresh start in healthy eating, including developing better snacking habits.

Here are some tips for following up season’s greetings with more reasoned eatings:

• Think big picture. Many diet and health experts agree that a more general, practical approach to snacking is easier to adhere to than a specific and often rigid diet. Balance and moderation may not be the most buzzworthy terms, but they are the basis of success.

• Follow your natural instincts. As more people resolve to eat green and clean, especially at the start of another year, a growing number of organic and natural food products are available at their supermarket. Snyder’s of Hanover, for instance, continues to expand its popular line of organic snack foods, such as its latest offering, Organic Braided Twists.

• Gain some control. Like moderation and balance, watching one’s portions isn’t a trendy notion, but it is a tried-and-true approach to healthy snacking. Sitting down at the computer or in front of the television with pre-packaged bags of pretzels, like 100 Calorie Packs from Snyder’s of Hanover, ensures that you won’t go overboard — or over recommended portion sizes.

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SENIOR VOICE

FEBRUARY 2011

FISHING LINES By Capt. Ric Liles I hate to say it but fishing in the Tampa Bay area right now is hit or miss. I know that’s not the message that is good for my business but it’s the truth. I refuse to shout how great the fishing is when it’s slower than normal. With the fronts lining up and rolling over us every few days that is what is expected from the bite? We get a day or two that the bite is good; and then we get a front that causes the winds to pick up, the water temps to drop and the barometer rises. Those are the days that we have to really work for the fish and be very patient. I get a chuckle out of the guys that are always having banner trips and catching more fish than they thought possible on these miserable days. At least that is what they say at the bait shop. Imagination and exaggeration can both be funny attributes. In the winter months our menu is smaller, and we do not have the variety of species to target. Trout are always a winter time

P.J. Kane and his nephew Loudan Hicks with a nice Bonnethead Shark Loudan caught on a recent fishing trip with Capt. Ric and Reel Simple Fishing Adventures. favorite. They do not feel the effects of the lower water temperatures as most of our fish and I think they have a little better taste when caught in the winter months. This is the time of year that Trout take center stage for most inshore anglers.

This is also the time of year that catching Sheephead is at its best. The bay is full of nice Sheephead right now and can be found at most of the passes and on the deeper flats. The Trout and Sheephead are both species that will oblige themselves to a fresh shrimp. Try using a piece of shrimp or a fid-

dler crab for the Sheephead. I have found a couple of schools or Redfish on the flats but with the water being gin clear they are very hard to approach unless the wind conditions are perfect. I caught a few the other day while I was out scouting but had to use 3/8 oz. jigheads to get the distance I needed on the cast. Most of the Redfish that have been caught on my boat have been small and caught in the river. They are fun on light tackle and seem to be plentiful on the days that we have decent weather. The most dependable bite that I have had lately has been the Shark bite. We are still catching a good number of Bonnethead Sharks at the area utilities and an occasional Blacktip. These guys are very fun on light tackle and provide a fantastic fight. For most anglers that is what their fishing for anyway — the fight. Warmer weather is around the corner and I can’t wait. Until next time, good luck and be safe on the water. Remember: don’t let your kid be the one that got away, take them fishing. For charter information you can call (813) 601-2900, email CaptainRic@msn. com, or visit www.ReelSimpleFishing.com

JUDI’S GEMS By Judith Sabghir Gannon February has always been special to me. Many years ago, when I was in sixth grade, my best friend and I created a tradition for George Washington’s birthday. We always went shopping in downtown Washington, D.C. Both of us looked forward to our day together, because it really started the night before with a pajama party at my house. Sometimes we were up most of the night planning our strategies and figuring out which stores to hit first. Armed with notes from our parents, which allowed us to use their credit cards, we were geared up to buy out the stores. One year, 1961, stands out in my memory. By 7:30 a.m., Sharyn and I were waiting for the bus to take us downtown. Like other kids growing up in the ‘60s, we took public transportation everywhere. No matter how cold it was outside, we never gave up our George Washington sales. Our parents trusted us to be careful and return by sunset. We just loved the freedom to shop by ourselves and have a girl’s day out — without our moms! Our biggest decision was to determine where to start our shopping spree. Would it be Woodward & Lothrop, Lord & Taylor, or The Hecht Company? We

loved Woodward & Lothrop, and it had some great bargains. Limiting our choices made shopping so much easier. Besides, our parents issued a few rules about overspending, so we tried to be frugal. This year the two of us would do something unique. We would buy some of the same clothes in different colors. That way, if we became bored with our choices, we could always switch outfits. Despite our best intentions to find the same clothes, only one dress could be duplicated. Mine was peach and Sharyn’s was a soft mint green. These were typical shirt waist dresses that buttoned half way down the front. Each dress sported a belt and then flared out, totally enhanced by petticoats. Even today, I can still visualize the black stitching on the upper part of the bodice. By the end of the day we were exhausted, and our overflowing bags were a sure sign of success. Filled with enthusiasm, we devised our strategy for switching dresses at an upcoming dance party. The party would be held in two weeks, which just happened to be my 12th birthday. Luckily my parents had a huge basement that served as a piano studio and party central. Our night to switch finally arrived, and we needed to time everything perfectly. Sharyn and I changed our clothes just in time for the cake cutting. When we walked down the basement stairs, everyone had a quizzical expression. They just couldn’t quite figure out what had changed. That was exactly the reaction

we wanted. After the cake was cut, we went back upstairs and redressed in our original dresses. We were a lot more excited than anyone else, but at least we had some fun. I will treasure the memory. Our shopping tradition continued for three more years, until it was time to enter high school. Sharyn moved to New York, so I lost my favorite shopping buddy. However, I did not lose my best friend. Distance may have separated us; but to this day, we continue to cherish our friendship of 55 years. Judith Sabghir Gannon is a freelance writer who resides in Wesley Chapel. She spent many years teaching adults and children in the public and private sector. For the past 20 years, she has devoted herself to improving the quality of life for senior adults. Jewish liturgical singing and leading prayer services is her passion.

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FEBRUARY 2011

SENIOR VOICE

PAGE 9

THEME: ASTRONOMY ACROSS

DOWN

1. Day before holiday, pl.

1. Formerly

5. “Owner of a Lonely Heart” band

2. Field mouse

8. Debilitating spray

3. Twelfth month of civil year

12. Film form

4. Precipitates a mixture of rain and snow

13. Metal cleat on horseshoe

5. “Do you ____?” search engine

14. Farm towers

6. Run off together

15. Uncontrolled swerve

7. Type of terrier

16. Sailor’s call

8. Our galaxy

17. Intestinal obstruction

9. Toward the lee

18. Stargazer

10. ____ d’etat

20. Round wicker basket

11. It turns host into hostess

21. California resort lake

13. Fresh breath lozenge

22. Put down

14. Rope-making plant fiber

23. Complete failure

19. Goldman ____

26. Common site in southwestern U.S.

22. False statement

30. Found behind the plate

23. Pyrotechnic device

31. Most famous telescope?

24. Forcefully urge

34. Song for solo voice

25. Copycat’s behavior

35. Glasses

26. Margarine

37. Opposed Wade

27. Wipe out

38. Bluish-green, pl.

28. Inside of a jacket

39. Strange and spooky 40. Richard Gere played one in 1980 film 42. “Monkey ____, monkey do” 43. Final resting place for heroes (Greek mythology)

29. Cuts with a laser 32. Fill to capacity 33. Cranberry habitat 36. UTI

45. Yellowish brown fossil resin, pl.

38. Halley’s is probably most famous of its kind

47. Explosive TV network

40. Belly

48. Tutor’s student

41. Cover with soap

50. Arrogant snob

44. Metal bar

52. 5.88 trillion miles

46. On the far side

56. Demoted from being a planet

48. A close game

57. Shrek, e.g.

49. Finno-____ family of languages

58. Aquarium show star

50. Theatrical performance

59. Acquired behavior pattern

51. Bumpkin

60. Fan sound

52. “About Last Night...” actor Rob

61. Matchstick game, pl.

53. Great Lake

62. Coloring substances

54. Pinnacle

63. And so on

55. Wood file

64. “____ Purple” band

56. Highest degree

Solution, Page 21.

WEB SITE OF THE MONTH: WWW.AUDIOBOOKWORM.COM Audiobookworm, an online audio book rental service, delivers its extensive collection of best-selling audio book titles to subscribers digitally. The service gives Audiobookworm subscribers the option to instantly download their favorite titles in an easy-to-use, take-it-with-you digital format. (Also available, mail-service delivery on either CD-ROM or cassette tape). Audiobookworm’s Digital Download service starts at $19.95 per month, and first-time users can try the service for free for two weeks. Audio books are also the ideal answer for the elderly, beginning readers, or anyone with sight restrictions. With the

new digital download service option, ordering is as easy as: 1) choose a title and checkout, 2) instantly download the title for immediate playback and, 3) at the end of the loan, the title is automatically returned to the collection – with nothing more to do.

Audio titles will be available in the industry-standard WMA format for easy playback on your home computer or on hundreds of portable devices, including MP3 players. The OverDrive Audio Book technology contains advanced accessibility features that make it easy for blind and visually impaired listeners to enjoy titles. Users simply choose their favorite book, download the book for instant, on-the-go

playback using an audio device, or listen offline on the subscriber’s PC. You can try the service for free for two weeks. You can also give the membership as a gift. Many people give gift memberships to their friends and family for birthdays, holidays, and just for fun. To purchase a gift, call the customer service department at (888) 583-8333. They can also help you determine the best package and length of membership for your friend or family member. All gift memberships and certificates can be delivered to you or your recipient instantly via email, or within several days via the US Postal Service.

GOT A SUGGESTION FOR WEBSITE OF THE MONTH? EMAIL A LINK TO EDITOR@SENIORVOICEFLORIDA.COM.

PAGE 10

SENIOR VOICE

FEBRUARY 2011

SPORTS

Good Life, Good Times Good Life Games 2011 Event Venues 3/5 3/10 3/12 3/13 3/14 3/15 3/16 3/17 3/17 3/18 3/19 3/21 3/22 3/23 3/24 3/25 3/25 3/26 3/27 3/27 3/28 3/29 3/30 3/31 4/3 4/4-5 4/6-7

Sat Thu Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Thu Fri Sat Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Fri Sat Sun Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Sun M-T W-T

Table Tennis Mah Jongg Swimming Bocce Ball Bowling – Mixed Doubles Golf – Par 72 Bowling – Doubles Shooting Archery Bowling – Singles Basketball Pickleball - Doubles Pickleball - Mixed Doubles Horseshoes Volleyball Fitness Challenge Weight Lifting Field Events Track Events Road Race Golf Specialty Golf – Par 62 Cycling – Road Race Cycling – Time Trials Billiards Shuffleboard – Singles Shuffleboard – Doubles

Ross Norton Recreation Center, Clearwater Freedom Square, Seminole The Long Center, Clearwater Italian American Club, Clearwater Sunrise Lanes, St Petersburg Clearwater Golf Club, Clearwater Seminole Lanes, Largo Wyoming Antelope Club, Pinellas Park Wyoming Antelope Club, Pinellas Park Seminole Lanes, Largo The Long Center, Clearwater Seminole Recreation Center, Seminole Seminole Recreation Center, Seminole Ed Wright Park, Clearwater The Long Center, Clearwater Millennium Gym, Largo Millennium Gym, Largo Clearwater High School, Clearwater Clearwater High School, Clearwater Clearwater High School, Clearwater Largo Golf Course, Largo Largo Golf Course, Largo Ft DeSoto Park, St Petersburg Ft DeSoto Park, St Petersburg Side Pockets Billiards, Largo Clearwater Shuffleboard Club, Clearwater Clearwater Shuffleboard Club, Clearwater

Good Life Games The Long Center 1501 N Belcher Road – Clearwater, Florida 33765 727-669-1361 ext- 233 www.goodlifegames.org

The 2011 Good LIfe Games are scheduled March 5 through April 7 with the Award Picnic on Sunday, April 10. Good Life Games, Inc., is a non-profit 501 (C)(3) registered Florida CH22531 charitable organization that promotes healthy lifestyles and encourages adults 50+ to enhance the value and vitality of their lives through athletic and recreational competition, social events, volunteerism and other activities. It is a countywide public/private partnership of cities, centers, agencies, organizations and clubs, media and corporate sponsors and volunteers joined together physically and financially to present the events. The 2011 Good Life Games of Pinellas County is sanctioned by the State of Florida to qualify the top five competitors (individuals or teams) to participate in the Florida State Senior Games held in December in Polk County. Rules for Florida State Senior Games Qualifying events can be found online at www.flasports.com. (Click on Senior Games.) The National Senior Games are held every two years. The upcoming National Senior Games will be held in

2011 in Houston for the State qualifiers from 2010. The 2013 National Senior Games will be in Cleveland. For the 2012 State Qualifiers. Check www.nsga.org for updates. Who is Eligible? Anyone age 50 or older by Dec. 31, 2011, including non-Florida residents, is eligible to participate in the Good Life Games. Age groups for most events are in five-year increments, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75-79, 80-84, 85-89, 90-94 and 95+. Some of the events will feature 10-year age-groups. Some events allow playing down in age. Doubles and team events are determined by the age of the younger partner/ player/teammate. Most events have separate divisions for men and women. Professional Athletes are not eligible to compete in the sport in which they received money or other significant compensation, as a primary source of income, within the last 20 years. Persons who compete in a sport in which minor amounts of money are given are not deemed professionals. For more information, visit www.goodlifegames.org.

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FEBRUARY 2011

SENIOR VOICE

PAGE 11

SENIOR VOICE SURVEY Help us to know you better and you could win two tickets to

The Florida Orchestra • The Renaissance Festival • Tampa Bay Rays • Tampa Bay Lightning In order to bring our readers the most important and desirable information we ask that you take a few minutes to fill out the survey below and mail back this survey to our office. You can also fill out this survey on our website at www.seniorvoiceflorida.com. All returned surveys will be entered into a drawing to win tickets to different events in the Bay Area listed above. There will be four Lucky Winners! 1) Are you a full time Florida resident? Yes No 2) How many months do you live in Florida? 1 2-4 5-7 8-11 3) Where do you live outside of Florida?

16) Have you ever used the “Classified Ads in Senior Voice? Yes No

4) Would you consider a subscription to have the paper mailed to you when you are not in Florida? Yes No 5) How often do you pick up a copy of Senior Voice of Florida Once a year 2-4 times a year 5-7 times a year 8-11 times a year Every issue 6) How many people live in your household? 1 2 3 or more 7) Do you own a computer? Yes No 8) How often do you use your computer? Don‘t Own a Computer Daily Three times or more a week Weekly Monthly 9) Would you like to read Senior Voice on the internet? Yes No 10) Would you be interested in training on how to use the computer? Yes No 11) Where do you pick up Senior Voice?

18) Do you use coupons? Yes No

12) What type of articles are you interested in (Pick top 5) Travel Vision Loss Hearing issues Finance Legal Sports Medical Exercise Dating Fishing Food Entertainment Medicare coverage Assisted Living choices Local Happenings Computer or Internet help or training Restaurant Review 13) During election season, would you like to see more information on the candidates and how they stand when it comes to matters important to seniors? Yes No 14) Do you like the crossword puzzle each month? Yes No 15) Have you recommended or told friends about an article you saw in Senior Voice? Yes No

17) Have you ever used the “Senior to Senior” section? Yes No

19) Have you ever used coupons from Senior Voice? Yes No 20) What type of coupons would you like to see in Senior Voice?

21) What age group are you? Under 50 50-54 55-59 60-64 65-69 70-74 75-79 80 or over

Local Doctor Helps Legally Blind to See Again! By Elena Lombardi Freelance Writer

If you are like the millions of Americans experiencing vision loss from diseases such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, retinitis pigmentosa, Stargardt’s disease and other vision limiting conditions, there is hope. Even if you have been told “nothing more can be done,” you owe it to yourself to seek a second opinion and get a low vision exam from an International Academy of Low Vision Specialists (IALVS) trained optometrist. IALVS member Dr. Edward Huggett, uses telescopic, miniature microscopes and prismatic glasses to help those with vision deficiencies perform such activities as reading, writing, playing sports and games, watching TV and, in some cases, even driving. Said one patient, “I used to be able to read only one or two words at a time; with these glasses, I can see several words, which helps me read more efficiently and to see my computer.”

22) Income sources Social Security Only Social Security and Pension Social Security and Investments/Savings Social Security and Family Government Retirement Plan 23) Do you work? No Full Time

Part Time

24) In terms of retirement are you: Where you thought you would be Better than you though you would be Not quite where I thought I would be 25) Do you listen to the radio? Yes No

26) Would you listen to a radio show that addressed issues important to seniors? Yes No 27) How often do you travel for pleasure? Once a year 2-4 times a year 5 or more times a year I don’t travel 28) Do you travel to see family Yes No 29) Do you own a car Yes No 30) Are you Single

Divorced

31) Do you live in a Private House Condominium Assisted Living Facility Apartment Retirement Community

MAIL YOUR COMPLETED SURVEY TO: SENIOR VOICE | PO BOX 270 | LUTZ, FL 33559

Widowed

Dr. Huggett and patient, Harry Jones reading with telescopic glasses “People don’t know that there are doctors who are very experienced in low vision care,” said Dr. Huggett. Macular degeneration is the most common eye disease amongst the senior population. As many as 25% of those over 65 have some degree of degeneration. The macula is one small part of the entire retina, but it is the most sensitive and gives us sharp images. “Our job is to figure out everything and anything possible to keep a person functioning visually,” said Dr. Huggett. “ Special reading glasses begin at $500 and telescopic glasses range from $1,500 – $2,500, a small price to pay for better vision and more independence. If you or someone you care about is struggling with vision loss, call Dr. Huggett today. He will speak with you over the phone, for FREE to see if you are a candidate for low vision care.

(866) 674-2030 Edward J Huggett, Jr., O.D., P.A

www.IALVS.org PAID ADVERTISEMENT

PAGE 12

SENIOR VOICE

FEBRUARY 2011

SENIOR HAPPENINGS FEB. 11-21

FEB. 23

MARCH 3

Florida State Fair

Brain Aneurysm Support Group

Story Time for Grownups

State Fairgrounds • Tampa

FEB. 3 Story Time for Grownups

Palm Harbor Library

Bring your imagination and relax after the holidays with Thrilling Tales, a story time for grownups offered the first Thursday of every month. Palm Harbor Library is located at 2330 Nebraska Ave., Palm Harbor. For more information, visit www.tblc.org/phl/ or call (727) 784-3332. FEB. 4 Daughters of the American Revolution

Tarpon Springs Public Library

The Princess Chasco Chapter meets the first Friday of every month October through May (no meeting in December). Any woman 18 or older who can trace her lineal descent from a patriot of the American Revolution is eligible. Tarpon Springs Public Library is located at 138 E Lemon St., Tarpon Springs. 1:30 p.m. For more information, visit tarponspringslibrary.org or call (727) 943-4922. FEB. 5 Dunedin Garden Club

Dunedin Public Library

The Dunedin Garden Club meets the first Saturday of every month September through May; bring a small plant for plant exchange. Dunedin Public Library is located at 223 Douglas Ave., Dunedin. 1 p.m. For more information, visit www.dunedingov. com/home.aspx?page=departments/library/ library or call (727) 736-4395. FEB. 5 $5 Day at the Zoo

Lowry Park Zoo

Load all the kids into the car and get ready to visit all your favorite animals. Everyone gets into the zoo for $5 today. Lowry Park Zoo is located at 1101 West Sligh Ave., Tampa. For more information, visit www.lowryparkzoo.com or call (813) 935-8552. FEB. 9 Salon

East Lake Community Library

The dictionary’s definition of “salon” is an assembly of guests in a fashionable household, especially a gathering of major literary, artistic, and political figures from the 17th to the early 20th centuries. Fast-forward to 2011 and claim your seat at the library’s roundtable. East Lake Community Library is located at 4125 East Lake Road, Palm Harbor. For more information, call (727) 773-2665.

The 2011 Florida State Fair runs through Feb. 21 and includes rides, games, animal exhibits, demonstrations and, of course, lots of fried food stuffs that have no business being fried. Florida State Fairgrounds is located at 4802 U.S. 301 N, Tampa. For more information, call (813) 621-7821. FEB. 13 Sunsation Show Chorus

St. Dunstan’s Anglican Church

The group presents “Potpourri of Melody,” an assortment of tunes including Broadway, jazz and classics. 3 p.m. St. Dunstan’s Anglican Church is located at 403 First Ave. SW, Largo. $15. For information, call (727) 541-4501. FEB. 15 Writers and Authors Group Meeting

Tiffany’s Restaurant

Tampa General Hospital Community Health Center

This group allows those who have had brain aneurysms to share their experiences and find emotional and medical support and resources. Call to RSVP. Tampa General Hospital Community Health Center is located at 740 S. Village Circle, Tampa. For more information, call (813) 844-7707. FEB. 23-26 Herman’s Hermits

Busch Gardens

Busch Gardens big band concert series returns to the Stanleyville Theater. Features Herman’s Hermits, the British pop/rock group that got little respect in the ‘60s. Nearly 35 years later, their work is now highly regarded and well known by all ages. For more information, visit www.buschgardens.com. FEB. 26 Tropical Bamboo

The Writers and Authors Group meets for lunch every third Tuesday of the month. This group of avid writers read their work for review, help with finding publishers and agents, give writing exercises with member critiques and share encouragement and fellowship. Tiffany’s Restaurant, 35000 US Highway 19 N, Palm Harbor. 1 p.m. For more information, call (727) 785-9530.

Expand your gardening horizons and get answers to plant care questions in weekly horticulture programs. Sunken Gardens is located at 1825 Fourth St. N, St. Petersburg. 11:30 a.m. For more information, visit www.stpete.org/events/ index.asp or call (727) 551-3100.

FEB. 15

Composting for Local Soil

Acting Classes

American Stage

Use improv exercises and games, listening exercises, concentration and moment-to-moment work to become an expressive, confident stage actor Meets Tuesdays Feb. 15 through April 19. Price: $225, $200 subscribers American Stage is located at 163 Third St. N, St. Petersburg. For more information, visit www.americanstage.org or call (727) 823-7529. FEB. 15 Florida Herb Society Meeting

Clearwater Garden Club

The Florida Herb Society meets monthly and provides education in the growing and preservation of herbs for use in culinary, medicinal, and decorative purposes. Refreshments and herbal swaps begin at 6:30 p.m. Visitors are welcome. Rebecca Conroy, a local beekeeper and natural living teacher of Rebecca’s Bees, will demonstrate how to create homemade and herbal cleaning supplies. Clearwater Garden Club is located at 405 Seminole St., Clearwater. 6:30 p.m. For more information, call (727) 443-7032.

Sunken Gardens Plant Talks

FEB. 26 Boyd Hill Nature Preserve

Learn proper home composting techniques for a nutrient-rich soil and flourishing gardens. Boyd Hill Nature Preserve is located at 1101 Country Club Way S, St. Petersburg. 1 p.m. For more information, visit www.stpete. org/boyd/ or call (727) 893-7326. FEB. 26 Diabetes Support Group

Tampa General Hospital Community Health Center

This group provides a forum for people living with diabetes and their family/ friends to facilitate self-management. Tampa General Hospital Community Health Center is located at 740 S. Village Circle, Tampa. 1 p.m. For more information, call (813) 844-7707. MARCH 2 Orchid Essentials

Belleair Garden Club

The Belleair Garden Club offers different horticulture workshops and meetings each month with help for the home gardener. Program by Michael Polen of Art Stone Orchids covers the basics of orchid care. Belleair Garden Club is located at 903 Ponce de Leon Blvd, Belleair. For more information, call (727) 586-4021.

Palm Harbor Library

American Legion Post 7

The 10-piece River City Banjo Band plays dixieland, singalong and string band music every Monday night. American Legion Post 7 is located at 1760 Turner St., Clearwater. For more information, call (727) 447-9204. MONDAYS Tai Chi/Qi Gong

Largo Community Center

Learn this ancient relaxing form of exercise taught by Bob Ailes. This is a low impact exercise based Chinese Tai Chi (Yang style) principles. You’ll learn short forms, Nu Moom, Sh Kyu, Qi Gong Healing/Anti-Aging as recommended by Dr. Oz on Oprah. A great class for energy, mental and physical fitness. Four week sessions, Mondays, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. $20 for Largo residents, $25for non-residents, $37 without recreation card. The Largo Community Center is located at 301 W Bay Drive, Largo. For more information, visit www.largo.com or call (727) 587-6740. MONDAYS Food Addiction Meetings

Hope Lutheran Church • Noon

Hope Lutheran Church is located at 1801 62nd Ave. N, St. Petersburg. For more information, visit www. Foodaddictsanonymous.org or call (727) 526-7460. MONDAYS Walking Club

Coffee Pot Park • 5 p.m.

Ongoing walking club, led by Dr. Karen Reese. Will start out slowly and build from there. Coffee Pot Park is located at 3001 First St. N., St. Petersburg. For information, call (727) 821-7400. MONDAYS LiveStrong Exercise for Cancer Survivors

YMCA of North Pinellas

Ongoing gentle exercise class for cancer survivors and those currently in treatment. YMCA of North Pinellas is located at 4550 Village Center Drive, Palm Harbor. For more information, visit www.suncoastymca. org/pinellas.htm or call (727) 772-9622.

FEBRUARY 2011

SENIOR VOICE

PAGE 13

SENIOR HAPPENINGS MONDAYS

THURSDAYS

Dancing for Seniors

Free Yoga for Stress Relief

Healing Meditation

Seniors can enjoy an evening of dancing to mixed music by the Ellis Hale Combo. $5 Hale Senior Activity Center is located at 330 Douglas Ave., Dunedin. For more information, visit www.dunedingov.com/home. aspx?page=departments/LeisureServices/ haleactivitycenter or call (727) 298-3299.

Ongoing free stress relief yoga classes offered as a gift to the Tampa Bay community during these challenging times. Lotus Room Yoga is located at 1101 W. Kennedy Blvd, Tampa. For more information, visit www.yogalotusroom.com or call (813) 254-6777.

Ongoing healing meditation class for cancer survivors and those currently in treatment. Hosted by the YMCA North Pinellas Branch. Free. Allegro at Eastlake is located at 1755 East Lake Road, Tarpon Springs. For more information, visit www.theallegro.com/el/ or call (727) 943-8878.

MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS AND FRIDAYS

Dunedin Walking Tour

Hale Senior Activity Center

Toning and Fat Burning Class

St. Pete Beach Community Center

People of all ages can lose weight and inches while revving up energy and improving overall health. Classes run Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings. St. Pete Beach Community Center is located at 7701 Boca Ciega Drive, St. Pete Beach. 7 a.m. For more information, visit www.spbrec.com or call (727) 363-9245. TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS Tai Chi

Hale Senior Activity Center

Learn at a relaxed pace. Tuesdays and Thursdays. $4. Hale Senior Activity Center is located at 330 Douglas Ave., Dunedin. For more information, visit bit.ly/93Z80n or call (727) 298-3299. TUESDAYS Mindful Moves: Dance for the Wise

St. Pete Beach Community Center

An interpretive dance class for seniors to help them get exercise through creative movement. $6 per class, $20 per month. St. Pete Beach Community Center is located at 7701 Boca Ciega Drive, St. Pete Beach. For more information, visit www. stpetebeach.org or call (727) 363-9245. WEDNESDAYS Grief Support Group

LifePath Hospice

An eight-week grief support group with 90-minute sessions. The group is called “New Beginnings.” For information, call (813) 877-2200. WEDNESDAYS Yogani Studios

Yogani Studios

Instructor Michael Gregory helps you learn to turn off the daily stresses of your life with mindful meditation. Yogani Studios is located at 1112 W Platt St., Tampa. 6 p.m. For more information, visit Meditation-Tampa.com or call (941) 323-3372.

Lotus Room Yoga

THURSDAYS Dunedin Historical Museum

A docent will lead an informative, interesting and often humorous onehour walking tour through Dunedin. $15 per person. Dunedin Historical Museum is located at 349 Main St., Dunedin. For more information, visit www.dunedinmuseum.org or call (727) 686-6750. THURSDAYS Promenade Square Dancing

Pinellas Park Senior Center

The Pinellas Park Senior Center is located at 7625 59th St., Pinellas Park. 6 p.m. For more information, visit www.pinellas-park. com or call (727) 462-2628. THURSDAYS Tai Chi For Beginners

Oldsmar Senior Center

Learn basic techniques for strength and relaxation. Register in advance, space limited. Oldsmar Senior Center is located at 127 State St. W., Oldsmar. For more information, call (813) 749-1155. FRIDAYS Square Dancing

Largo Community Center

Every Friday night from 7:30 to 9:45 p.m. $5 per person. Largo Community Center is located at 65 Fourth St. NW, Largo. 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.largocommunitycenter.com or call (727) 518-3131. FRIDAYS Free Accupuncture Clinic

Sunshine Senior Center

Patrons of the Sunshine Senior Center are invited to visit a free communityformat mini-acupuncture clinic on Fridays at 9:30 a.m. Acupuncture and Oriental medicine has been practiced in the U.S. for at least 150 years. Acupuncture medicine is being used by senior Americans each year. Sunshine Senior Center is located at 330 5th Street North, St. Petersburg. For more information, visit bit.ly/9pxsCe or call (727) 893-7101.

Allegro at Eastlake

FRIDAYS Friday Night Movies

Pioneer Park

Series of films presented by the City of Dunedin’s Parks and Recreation Department and the Community Redevelopment Agency. Dress up as your favorite character or thing from each weeks film. Pioneer Park is located at Main Street and Douglas Ave, Dunedin. For more information, visit www.dunedingov.com or call (727) 812-4530. FRIDAYS Senior Excursions

St. Pete Beach Community Center

Don’t sit at home. Join other seniors for adventure and fun on these weekly “Luncheon Excursions.” St. Pete Beach Community Center is located at 7701 Boca Ciega Drive, St. Pete Beach. For more information, visit www. spbrec.com or call (727) 363-9245. FRIDAYS Square Dancing

Largo Community Center

An evening of square dancing to area favorite caller Allen Snell. $5. Largo Community Center is located at 65 Fourth St. NW, Largo. For more information, visit www.largocommunitycenter.com or call (727) 518-3131. FRIDAYS AND SATURDAYS Sunsets at Pier 60

Pier 60

Bring your blankets, low lawn chairs or towels to plop on Clearwater Beach at Pier 60 and watch free movies. Concessions will be for sale. (As always, no alcohol permitted on the beach.) The shows start around dusk. Free. Pier 60 is located at 10 Pier 60 Drive, Clearwater Beach. Dusk. For more information, visit www.sunsetsatpier60.com or call (727) 434-6060. SATURDAYS Guided Hike

Weedon Island Preserve

Weedon Island Preserve is a wonderful example of how nature can persevere throughout a 2,000-year history of hu-

man presence on the island. The natural world and humans are permanently linked here, and evidence of this is easily seen through our various hike programs. Guided hikes through coastal mangrove and upland ecosystems of the Preserve are held each Saturday of the month. Experienced volunteers lead guided hikes for the general public that examine the best of our cultural and environmental attributes. These weekly-guided hikes are free. Admission to the Preserve and the hike is free, but you must pre-register by calling (727) 453-6500. For more information, visit weedonislandpreserve.org or call (727) 453-6500. SATURDAYS Guided Hikes

Brooker Creek Preserve

Take a walk through time on these Saturday morning guided hikes along the Education Center Trail. This threequarter-mile walk explores how the land has changed over time. A guide discusses the ecological footprints left by those changes. Sturdy closed-toe shoes are a must, and water and a hat are recommended. Pre-registration is required by noon on the Friday before the hike. Free. All ages welcome. Children younger than 6 may find this hike challenging. 9 to 10:30 a.m. Brooker Creek Preserve is located at 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. For more information, visit www.brookercreekpreserve.org or call (727) 453-6800. SATURDAYS Swing Dance Saturdays

Largo Community Center

Make some friends and dance the night away to live sounds by Right Steps Studio. Come early for a dance lesson from 7-8 p.m. $5. Largo Community Center is located at 65 Fourth St. NW, Largo. For more information, visit www.largocommunitycenter.com or call (727) 518-3131. SATURDAYS Suncoast Genealogy Society

Palm Harbor Library

Suncoast Geneology Society will be offers an eight-week course on Beginning Genealogy at the Palm Harbor Library, 2330 Nebraska Ave, Palm Harbor. The course will be offered on Saturdays from 2-4 p.m. The registration fee of $35 includes materials and handouts. Contact Howard Smith, (727) 669-7220, to register or for more information Palm Harbor Library is located at 2330 Nebraska Ave., Palm Harbor. For more information, visit www.tblc.org/phl/ or call (727) 784-3332.

EMAIL YOUR SENIOR HAPPENINGS TO SV@HOTPOTATO.US. THE DEADLINE FOR THE MARCH ISSUE IS FEB. 15.

PAGE 14

SENIOR VOICE

Let the Journey Begin...

FEBRUARY 2011

THE FLORIDA ORCHESTRA

MASTERWORKS

Gershwin’s Concerto in F

Stewart Goodyear plays Gershwin’s high-energy and blues-laced Concerto in F on a program with Osvaldo Golijov’s new Sidereus and Dvorak’s Symphony No. 8 with its sparkling Bohemianinspired melodies. Stefan Sanderling conducts.

Feb 18 & 20 MASTERWORKS

The orchestra joins forces with The Master Chorale of Tampa Bay for one of the most life-affirming works of music: Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9. The program opens with Arnold Schoenberg’s ethereal hymn for eternal peace, Friede auf Erden (Peace on Earth). Stefan Sanderling conducts.

Feb 25 - 27

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Alastair Willis conducts The Florida Orchestra in a program showcasing the various sections of the orchestra. The music includes Benjamin Britten’s Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra and selections from Kurt Weill’s Three Penny Opera Suite, along with music by Ralph Vaughan Williams, Aaron Copland and Richard Strauss. Attendees enjoy complimentary coffee and Krispy Kreme doughnuts prior to the concert and the conductor provides animated commentary about the music throughout the performance. This concert is Thursday, Feb. 10, at 11 a.m., at the Progress Energy Center for the Arts — Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg. On the cusp of Valentine’s Day, the next Raymond James Pops concert, “The Great American Songbook,” promises to get you in the mood with everybody’s favorite ballads and romantic songs by Johnny Mercer, George Gershwin, Cole Porter, Duke Ellington, Richard Rodgers, Irving Berlin and more. The featured vocalists are Broadway stars with Florida connections: Teri Dale Hansen is a graduate of Florida State University and Norm Lewis hails from Eatonville, Fla. Among the songs on the program are The Man I Love, Begin The Beguine, S’ Wonderful, Some Enchanted Evening, Over the Rainbow, My Funny Valentine, Shall We Dance? and many more. Andrew Lane conducts these concerts on Feb. 11 and

12 in Tampa and St. Petersburg. Lauded by the San Francisco Chronicle as simply “breathtaking,” pianist Stewart Goodyear is the soloist on the Masterworks series in Gershwin’s high-energy and blues-laced Concerto in F. The program also includes Osvaldo Golijov’s newly commissioned Sidereus and Dvorak’s Symphony No. 8 with its sparkling Czech-inspired melodies. The 2009 Taki Concordia Conducting Fellow, Mihaela Cesa-Goje of Romania, will conduct the Golijov work and Stefan Sanderling will conduct the Gershwin and Dvorak works. These concerts are Feb. 18, 19 and 20 in Tampa, Lakeland and Clearwater, respectively. The following Masterworks concert is a glorious celebration of hope and the human spirit as Music Director Stefan Sanderling leads The Florida Orchestra and The Master Chorale of Tampa Bay in Beethoven’s monumental Symphony No. 9. The evening opens the TFO premiere of Arnold Schoenberg’s delicate and ethereal hymn for eternal peace, Friede auf Erden (Peace on Earth). These concerts are Feb. 25, 26 and 27 in Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater. The Florida Orchestra regularly performs at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts in Tampa, Progress Energy Center for the Arts — Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg and Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater. For tickets or information, visit www.floridaorchestra. org or call (727) 892-3337 or (800) 662-7286.

SUNCOAST DIXIELAND JAZZ SOCIETY The Suncoast Dixieland Jazz Society is sponsoring the following concerts: • Feb. 10 — Bobby Tess and The Dixie Chaps will play from 7 to 9:30 p.m. At the Bilmar Beach Resort, Treasure Island. Admission: $7. • Feb. 20 — Wally’s Warehouse Waifs from Michigan will play from 1-4 p.m. Banquet Masters, 8100 Park Blvd., Pinellas Park. Admission: $15 members, $20 guests. • Feb. 24 — Bobby Tess and the Dixie Chaps will play from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Bilmar Beach Resort, Treasure Island. Admission: $7. Information: (727) 522-6877

FEBRUARY 2011

SENIOR VOICE

FITNESS

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Exercise for Seniors Being physically active on a regular basis is one of the healthiest things you can do for yourself. Studies have shown that exercise provides many health benefits and that older adults can gain a lot by staying physically active. Even moderate exercise and physical activity can improve the health of people who are frail or who have diseases that accompany aging. Staying physically active and exercising regularly can produce long-term health benefits and even improve health for some older people who already have diseases and disabilities. That’s why health experts say that older adults should aim to be as active as possible. Although exercise and physical activity are among the healthiest things you can do for yourself, some older adults are reluctant to exercise. Some are afraid that exercise will be too hard or that physical activity will harm them. Others might think they have to join a gym or have special equipment. Yet, studies show that “taking it easy” is risky. For the most part, when older people lose their ability to do things on their own,

it doesn’t happen just because they’ve aged. It’s usually because they’re not active. Scientists have found that staying physically active and exercising regularly can help prevent or delay many diseases and disabilities. In some cases, exercise is an effective treatment for many chronic conditions. For example, studies show that people with arthritis, heart disease, or diabetes benefit from regular exercise. Exercise also helps people with high blood pressure, balance problems, or difficulty walking. Some people may wonder what the difference is between physical activity and exercise. Physical activities are activities that get your body moving such as gardening, walking the dog and taking the stairs instead of the elevator. Exercise is a form of physical activity that is specifically planned, structured and repetitive such as weight training, tai chi, or an aerobics class. Including both in your life will provide you with health benefits that can help you feel better and enjoy life more as you age.

Five Gym-Free Fitness Ideas Fitness should be fun and affordable. It should not be boring, time-consuming or costly. Make your exercise routine a bit more exciting this year with some fitness activities you can do without an expensive gym membership. 1) Sports hoop your way to slimmer shape — The thought of hula hoops probably conjures memories from your childhood, but the fact is hula hooping is a great fitness activity. Sports Hoops are large, weighted fitness hoops that adults use to tone and lose weight. These affordable hoops are easy and fun to use and can help you lose weight. If you’re a certified personal trainer looking for something new and exciting for your clients, consider attending a certified trainer program where you’ll learn the knowledge and tools to facilitate your own fitness hoop class and instruct personal training sessions. 2) Try a new activity you’ve never done before — There’s no better way to get your blood pumping and your body moving than trying something you’ve never done before. Always wondered what it’s like to rock climb? Sign up for a class, or see if your local sports store has a free rock climbing wall. How about trying ice skating, surfing or even acrobatics? If a new activity is a little intimidating, you may not want to do it alone. Ask a friend to do it with you and you’re sure to get a great workout and a wonderful memory.

3) Join a walking or running group — Walking and running are great physical activities that burn calories and tone the body. Discover the parks and neighborhoods around you by planning regular walks. Consider finding a walk/ run buddy to keep you motivated. Or, look online to find walking and running groups that plan regular outings and offer a supportive, team environment. 4) Take up a sport — Remember how much fun it was to play sports growing up? Adult teams can be just as fun, providing great exercise and camaraderie. Does your work or church group have a softball team? Maybe your friends like to bowl and you could form a bowling team. From broom ball, tennis, golf and more, team sports keep the spirit of healthy, friendly competition alive. 5) Visit your library and request workout DVDs — The library is a great community resource and it can also help keep you in shape. Because checking out books and DVDs is absolutely free, the library is the perfect place to research new types of exercise to spice up your normal routine. Try searching for Pilates, yoga and aerobic DVDs. You likely can request them to be sent to your preferred pickup location too. Some books and DVDs are geared toward specific age groups, so teens, adults and even seniors can find appropriate workout inspiration.

PAGE 15

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PAGE 16

SENIOR VOICE

What You Should Know About Reverse Mortgages Now that family members are living longer and healthier lives, reaching retirement age no longer means growing old. At the same time, many worry that their retirement savings is not sufficient to provide a more comfortable life during their non-working years. For your own peace of mind, it’s important to plan for the future by considering what you might need to “age in place.” If you’re 62 or older, it may be helpful to learn more about how a reverse mortgage may help you live a life with less worry and fewer restraints. “A reverse mortgage offers older adults many options, because they can continue to own and live in their homes — while also possibly helping them to pay their bills, make home improvements, travel, help children and grandchildren financially and a lot more,” says Chris Bruser. A reverse mortgage is a way for older adults to access the equity in their homes to pay for their needs and wants while continuing to live in and own their homes. Homeowners age 62 or older who live in the home as their principal residence are eligible.

The home has to have little or no debt remaining on it and meet U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s minimum property standards. A reverse mortgage allows borrowers to retain ownership of the house. They can continue to live in it as long as they want and the loan doesn’t have to be repaid until they permanently leave or sell the home. However, they are still responsible for paying property taxes and homeowners insurance and keeping the house in reasonable condition. “The reverse mortgage process can be easy and there is a lot of information and resources available to help you learn more about it,” says Bruser.” Bruser suggests that you speak with a reverse mortgage professional to learn more about reverse mortgages. MetLife Bank offers free, educational materials, including a comprehensive information planner kit and video to consumers who want more information about a MetLife Bank reverse mortgage. Chris Bruser can be reached at (813) 464-5221.

MetLife Bank

Use Your Home to Stay at Home If you’re a homeowner age 62 and older and find it hard to cover your everyday expenses, a MetLife Bank reverse mortgage may be able to help you.

DOLLARS AND SENSE

Some Seniors Carry a Large Credit Card Debt Younger generations of Americans have long looked up to their elders as paragons of good financial common sense. The “Greatest Generation” managed to get through the country’s toughest economic conditions with a dogged attitude about saving and minimal spending. So it’s surprising to find out that many seniors are facing high levels of credit card debt. A study by the University of Michigan Law School showed that 7 percent of the people filing for bankruptcy between 1991 and 2007 were aged 65 and older — the fastest growing age segment to file. Two-thirds of older Americans pointed to high credit card debt as their reason for choosing to file bankruptcy, and seniors had a 50-percent higher credit card debt than younger people who were filing. Contributing factors to this trend include the rising cost of medical care and decreased income after retirement. Many seniors also deal with the loss of a spouse and subsequently the loss of a secondary, or even primary, income. Seniors also may be hesitant to talk about their financial issues, not wanting to be seen as asking for help. With a growing number of seniors filing for bankruptcy, it’s apparent that many feel powerless to get out of debt. However, there are options available that are not as drastic as bankruptcy. Financial expert and best-selling author David Bach stresses that it is possible for many seniors to overcome their debt,

without declaring bankruptcy. “Bankruptcy should be a last resort,” Bach says. “And that means you need to know about your options to pay off debt before you come to the conclusion of filing bankruptcy. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by debt, but there are smarter ways to eliminate it.” Bach, whose latest book, Debt Free for Life: The Finish Rich Plan for Financial Freedom, outlines a plan for getting out of debt, points to Debt Wise, an online tool from credit reporting agency Equifax, as one of his favorite methods to help oneself get out of debt. “I like Debt Wise because it uses the same methods I’ve been teaching for decades to help people pay off their debts faster and save on interest, but it does so automatically,” says Bach. “The tool pulls the debts listed in your Equifax credit report so you can set everything up in a matter of minutes, keep yourself on track and monitor your progress.” For seniors, it might seem like it’s too late to tackle debt and that the only way out is to choose bankruptcy. However, by utilizing a system to prioritize debts and structure a payment plan, seniors can often get out of debt — credit card or otherwise — without turning to bankruptcy. For this fiercely independent segment of the population, using a simple tool that can help them overcome debt can offer a new lease on life.

United Way Offers Free Income Tax Preparation

With a reverse mortgage, you can: > Continue to live in and own your home as long as you continue to be responsible for paying property taxes, homeowner’s insurance, and maintenance of the home as your primary residence > Tap into the equity you’ve built in your home to pay for the things you need > Make no monthly mortgage payments—the loan is not due until the last borrower permanently leaves or sells the home* At MetLife Bank, we’re dedicated to helping our customers maintain their financial independence, so they can focus on what’s most important in their lives. Should you decide that a reverse mortgage is right for you, I will work with you through every step of the loan process. Contact me to find out if a reverse mortgage is right for you.

Chris Bruser Reverse Mortgage Consultant 813-464-5221 *Although there are no monthly mortgage payments, interest accrues on the portion of the loan amount disbursed. All loans are subject to property approval. Certain conditions and fees apply. Mortgage financing provided by MetLife Bank, N.A., Equal Housing Lender. © 2010 MetLife, Inc. R0410101757[exp0411][All States][DC] © 2010 PNTS

FEBRUARY 2011

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The Prosperity Campaign is an internal program of the United Way of Pasco County that offers free income tax preparation. Last year approximately 6,500 returns were prepared through the program with more than $6 million being refunded to Pasco County tax payers. Almost $1.2 million of that was Earned Income Tax Credits. There are 10 sites throughout Pasco County that prepare returns from the end of January to April 15. All returns are prepared by volunteers that have been trained and certified by the IRS. This year there will be approximately 140 volunteers. Each site electronically files returns and has the ability to do direct deposit, usually within 10 business days from when the returns are filed.

All returns are prepared by appointment making it easier for the clients as well as the volunteers. To make a tax return appointment, simply call 2-1-1. This is a three digit number just like 9-1-1, except 2-1-1 is for information and referral for health and human services. The information and referral specialist will schedule an appointment at the most convenient time and location for the client. The United Way of Pasco County’s mission is to advance the common good in our community by creating opportunities for a better life and addressing the underlying causes of problems thus creating long-lasting changes. If you have any questions please contact Kristen King at (727) 835-2028 or via email at kristen.king@unitedwaypasco.org.

FEBRUARY 2011

SENIOR VOICE

PAGE 17

LIVING

DID YOU KNOW

Garden Superstars Spruce Up Spring From cool miniature fountains to going native in the garden, spring 2011 promises great plants and products that will help you spruce up your home with pizzazz and ease. “People are clamoring for eco-friendly plants and products that are attractive and perform well,” says Susan McCoy, garden writer and trend spotter. McCoy predicts these garden superstars will chase away the winter blahs and get gardeners raring to go outside: • Keep the dog, lose the spots — Got pets? McCoy does and has discovered new SpotGone!, an Organic Materials Review Institute-listed organic product that turns those yellow, burned-looking patches where her dog does his “business” into lush, green grass again. The all-natural and easy-to-sprinkle pellets take out the excess salt and nitrogen from the soil, allowing grass to grow back and stay “naturally” green and healthy. It’s free from chemicals so it’s safe to use around kids and pets. It complements any lawn care system and has no foreign grass seed, so your lawn grows back uniformly and not “patchy.” Just shake what you need on pet urine spots, high-traffic areas or lawn damage from de-icers. Look for SpotGone! at www.natraturf.com. • Roll out the welcome — Looking for an instant, affordable facelift for your home? You can spruce up any doorway with the wide array of eco-friendly, all-natural coir doormats from Imports Unlimited. McCoy’s impressed with the new spring Garden Collection that features “Dahlias” in bright, bold colors and stunning “Bamboo,” as well as fun and fanciful

“Hippie Bird.” All 200 selections are by prominent artists and are either 100 percent hand-woven cocofiber, decorated in richly colored, fade-resistant dyes or all-weather recycled rubber. Choose from formal, classic, contemporary or whimsical to greet guests with a work of art right at your doorstep. • Go native — Want to see more birds, bees and butterflies in your garden? Attracting wildlife while you beautify your landscape has never been easier. American Beauties Native Plants has a wide array of native shrubs, trees, ornamental grasses and perennials that are perfect for your region. Hand-picked for their beauty, these native charmers will attract and provide shelter and food for wildlife, with minimal need for fertilizer, water and pest control. Plus, you’ll be making a contribution to The National Wildlife Federation Certified Wildlife Habitat program. • Splish, splash — Now you can bring the soothing sight and sounds of fountains onto your terrace or indoors with the new mini fountain collection from Campania International. Their Arabesque fountain, at only 18 inches tall, offers double the pleasure with a basin that makes a great planter and an etched design that will complement any space. Whether you want to decorate your terrace or liven up a room or windowsill in your home or office, adding a mini fountain is an affordable luxury. Spring — and gardening season — will arrive before you know it. Be prepared when warm weather arrives by keeping up-to-date on the latest products and trends that can help spruce up your outdoors.

“Plants act as the ‘lungs of the earth’ by giving off oxygen and taking in carbon dioxide,” says former NASA research scientist Dr. B.C. Wolverton, author of How to Grow Fresh Air and co-author with Kozaburo Takenaka of Plants, Why You Can’t Live Without Them.

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A LITTLE ‘THANKS’ GOES A LONG WAY If you are fortunate enough to have received a trove of goodies from friends, family and colleagues over the holidays, there is no better way to show appreciation than with an old fashioned “thank you” note. Before too much time passes, take a few minutes to thank those who remembered you.

Even in the digital age, it’s still fun to receive a handwritten note or there are a variety of online choices that allow you to send a note that can be digitally delivered. When thanking friends and family for gifts, include specifics about what you received and how you plan to use the gift. For example, if you received a kitchen gadget, let the giver know the first meal you plan to make with it. If you received a picture frame, let them know who you’ll be commemorating. A thank you note may be especially appreciated if the gift giver let you pick what you wanted. If you received a gift card, shop soon and be sure to let the giver know what you used the card for.

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PAGE 18

SENIOR VOICE

FEBRUARY 2011

ENTERTAINMENT HOW TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS...

PEKING ACROBATS

Show Palace Dinner Theatre

Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall

Power, sex, ambition, greed… it’s just another day at the office. In the grand tradition of The Producers and A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum comes one of the most delightfully irreverent musicals of all time. Show Palace Dinner Theatre is located at 16128 U.S. 19, Hudson. For more information, visit www.showpalace.net or call (727) 863-7949.

The Peking Acrobats transport unique and timeless tradition into the 21st Century with a careful blending of state-of-the art technology and ancient artistry. Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is located at 777 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. For more information, visit www.vanwezel. org or call (800) 826-9303.

THE 39 STEPS

Sarasota Opera House

Through Feb. 27

Florida Studio Theatre

Through Feb. 20

Offbeat classic spy thriller packed with more than 150 off-beat characters (played by a cast of four actors), an on-stage plane crash and some good old-fashioned romance. Florida Studio Theatre is located at 1241 North Palm Ave., Sarasota. For more information, visit www. Floridastudiotheatre.org or call (941) 366-9000. BRASSY BROADS: THE NEXT GENERATION Florida Studio Theatre

Through March 26

Brassy and sassy revue is a fast-paced, energetic tribute to the classic broads of the 20th century (think Mae West, Sophie Tucker, Bernadette Peters and Bette Midler), with contemporary variations of old standards. Florida Studio Theatre is located at 1241 North Palm Ave., Sarasota. For more information, visit www. Floridastudiotheatre.org or call (941) 366-9000. LOOKING Venue Actor Studio

Feb. 3-20

Comedy about middle-aged singles looking for and finding, love. Staged by Venue Ensemble Theatre. A portion of the proceeds from ticket sales will benefit Neighborly Care Network (Meals on Wheels). Venue Actor Studio is located at 9125 U.S. 19 N, Pinellas Park. For more information, visit www.nukkad-usa.org/vas/index. htm or call (727) 822-6194. MEL BROOKS YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN Ruth Eckerd Hall

Feb. 8-13

A wickedly inspired re-imagining of the Frankenstein legend based on Mel Brooks’ classic comedy masterpiece, the story follows bright young Dr. Frankenstein (that’s Fronkensteen) as he attempts to complete his grandfather’s masterwork and bring a corpse to life. Ruth Eckerd Hall is located at 1111 N. McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater. For more information, visit www.rutheckerdhall.com or call (727) 791-7400.

Feb. 11

DON GIOVANNI Feb. 12 through March 18

The two-act opera by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart is an odd mix of bawdy comedy and chilling suspense. Sung in Italian with English supertitles. Sarasota Opera House is located at 61 N Pineapple Ave., Sarasota. For more information, visit www.sarasotaopera.org or call (941) 366-8450. TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD Francis Wilson Playhouse

Feb. 17-27

Based on the book by Harper Lee, the story addresses social status, racial injustice and the destruction of innocence. Six year old Scout Finch learns some hard live lessons when her father defends a black man accuses of raping a white woman. Francis Wilson Playhouse is located at 302 Seminole St., Clearwater. For more information, visit franciswilsonplayhouse. org or call (727) 446-1360. DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall

Feb. 7-9

Classic musical love story filled with unforgettable characters, lavish sets and costumes and dazzling production numbers. Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is located at 777 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. For more information, visit www.vanwezel. org or call (800) 826-9303. MOVE OVER, MRS. MARKHAM Stage West Community Playhouse

Feb. 10-20

A comedy by popular playwright Ray Cooney and co-writer John Chapman, featuring madcap fun with adultery and fornication. Stage West Community Playhouse is located at 8390 Forest Oaks Boulevard, Spring Hill. For more information, visit www.stagewest.net or call (352) 683-5113. 42ND STREET Show Palace Dinner Theatre

Through April 24

A romantic spoof of 1930s-era showbiz, with Busby Berkeley-style dances, a chorus girl made into an overnight star and songs like Lullaby of Broadway,

We’re in the Money and the title song. Doors open two hours before show time for cocktails and buffet. Dinner and show, $48; show only, $37, plus tax and tip; 12 and younger, $29 and $24. Show Palace Dinner Theatre is located at 16128 U.S. 19, Hudson. For more information, visit www.showpalace.net or call (727) 863-7949. FORBIDDEN BROADWAY David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts

Through Feb. 20

Forbidden Broadway has been spoofing show tunes, the characters and plots of Broadway musicals since 1982 in New York. Now there’s a version of the cabaret show playing the Jaeb Theater of the David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts, running through Feb. 20. With a six-member company, it was directed by Edward Staudenmayer, who has put in 15 years as actor and director with the New York show; he was also the White Rabbit in the Straz’s production of Wonderland. David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts is located at 1010 N MacInnes Place, Tampa. For more information, visit www.tbpac.org or call (813) 229-7827. MICKEY’S MAGIC SHOW Mahaffey Theater

March 4-6

Master Magician Mickey Mouse and his dazzling assistant Minnie join forces with professional illusionists in this show featuring Disney characters including Donald and Goofy, Cinderella and her Fairy Godmother, Alice in Wonderland and the Mad Hatter and Disney Princesses Jasmine, Belle and Show White. Show combines actual magic with the magic of Disney story lines. Mahaffey Theater is located at 400 First St S, St. Petersburg. For more information, visit www.mahaffeytheater.com or call (727) 892-5798. SHIRLEY MACLAINE Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall

Feb. 10

Academy Award-winning actress, dancer and author Shirley MacLaine has enraptured live audiences and moviegoers for five decades. In this frank and provocative evening, MacLaine combines a montage of memorable film moments with private revelations about her extraordinary life, career and spiritual journey. Come share this evening with one of America’s true entertainment icons. Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is located at 777 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. 8 p.m. For more information, visit www. vanwezel.org or call (800) 826-9303.

CLAY AIKEN Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall

Feb. 12

Clay Aiken launched his career journey seven years ago on American Idol where his talent and down-home charm won over millions of viewers. He will be performing some of his songs from his recently released album, Tried and True, such as Can’t Take My Eyes Off Of You, Misty and What Kind of Fool Am I. Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is located at 777 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. 8 p.m. For more information, visit www. vanwezel.org or call (800) 826-9303. THE LION IN WINTER Gorilla Theatre

Through Feb. 6

For sheer bloody-minded, backstabbing, double-crossing behavior, few families can beat the Plantagenets. James Goldman’s historical play, set in the twelfth century, focuses on the family of King Henry II and reveals some of that English royal family’s less savory behavior. Gorilla Theatre is located at 4419 N Hubert Ave., Tampa. 7 p.m. For more information, visit www.gorillatheatre.com or call (813) 879-2914. SUNSATION SHOW CHORUS St. Dunstan’s Anglican Church

Feb. 13 at 3 p.m.

The group presents “Potpourri of Melody,” an assortment of tunes including Broadway, jazz and classics. St. Dunstan’s Anglican Church is located at 403 First Ave. SW, Largo. $15. For information, call (727) 541-4501. DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts

Through Feb. 9

Classic musical love story filled with unforgettable characters, lavish sets and costumes and dazzling production numbers. Tickets start at $38.50. David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts is located at 1010 N MacInnes Place, Tampa. For more information, visit www.tbpac.org or call (813) 229-7827. BOEING BOEING FSU Center for Performing Arts Cook Theatre

Through April 23

A high style, knee-slapping romp through the age of glamorous, jet-setting air travel. The debonair Bernard, an architect living in Paris, is juggling relationships with three vivacious flight attendants — each of whom believes she is his only girl. All goes well until his friend Robert arrives for a visit and the airlines decide to change their schedules! Chaos and fun take off as Bernard’s clever plans unravel. High fly-

FEBRUARY 2011

SENIOR VOICE

PAGE 19

ENTERTAINMENT ing fun! Boeing Boeing recently enjoyed a successful Broadway revival with 279 performances. FSU Center for Performing Arts Cook Theatre is located at 5555 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. 8 p.m. For more information, visit www.banyantheatercompany.com or call (941) 552-1032. BOB NEWHART WITH DEANA MARTIN Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall

Feb. 24

Bob Newhart’s career has spanned two successful television shows, 14 feature films, sold millions of albums worldwide and still performs to sell-out crowds. Performing some of his great standards such as The Driving Instructor, Sir Walter Raleigh and The Submarine Commander, these timeless classics are enjoyed by young and old alike. Joining Newhart is Deana Martin, daughter of Dean Martin, who will sing some of her father Dean’s classics. Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is located at 777 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. For more information, visit www.vanwezel. org or call (800) 826-9303. JUNGLE BOOK David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts

Feb. 27

Join Mowgli as he embarks on a life being raised by wolves and his misadventures with his new friends-a panther named Bagheera and a crazy Bear, Baloo. David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts is located at 1010 N MacInnes Place, Tampa. For more information, visit www.tbpac.org or call (813) 229-7827. THE GONDOLIERS Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center

Feb. 5-13

The Gilbert & Sullivan Players present The Gondoliers, or the King of Barataria, was produced at the Savoy Theatre in 1889 and is doubly famous among Gilbert & Sullivan’s work for possessing perhaps the most sparkling and tuneful music of them all and for being the last opera to be produced before the lamentable and unnecessary quarrel between Gilbert, Sullivan and D’Oyly Carte. Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center is located at 324 Pine St., Tarpon Springs. For more information, visit www.tarponarts. org or call (727) 942-5605. BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts

Feb. 2-20

Winner of 10 2009 Tony Awards, including Best Musical. The story follows Billy’s journey as he stumbles out of the boxing ring and into a ballet class, where he discovers his dream to dance.

Contains some strong language. David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts is located at 1010 N MacInnes Place, Tampa. 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.tbpac.org or call (813) 229-7827. THE DIXIE SWIM CLUB Early Bird Dinner Theater

Through Feb. 27

Comedy about five women who were swimming teammates in college and their yearly reunions at a North Carolina beach cottage. Seating at 4 p.m. for Thursday-Sunday evening shows, 11 a.m. for Thursday and Saturday matinees. Early Bird Dinner Theater is located at 200 South McMullen-Booth Road, Clearwater. For more information, visit www.earlybirddinnertheatre.com or call (727) 446-5898. 12 ANGRY MEN FSU Center for Performing Arts Cook Theatre

Through March 26

A gripping contemporary classic about a young man on trial for allegedly murdering his father, but one lone juror among the 12th is not convinced the boy is guilty. As he examines all the possibilities of what might have happened the night of the murder, his open-minded outlook convinces the other jurors there is a possibility of innocence after all. This engrossing courtroom drama will keep you on edge to its final moments. FSU Center for Performing Arts Cook Theatre is located at 5555 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. For more information, visit www. banyantheatercompany.com or call (941) 552-1032.

2011 Bay Area

THE ODD COUPLE David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts

Feb. 3-20

Jobsite Theater presents an unsanitized revival of the Tony Award winning comic masterpiece. David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts is located at 1010 N MacInnes Place, Tampa. 8 p.m. For more information, visit www.tbpac.org or call (813) 229-7827. THE COMPLETE HISTORY OF AMERICA Eleanor Dempsey Performing Arts Center

Feb. 4-13

Comedy by The Reduced Shakespeare Company, known for their madcap, seemingly improvisational vaudevillian entertainments, presents “600 years of American history in 6,000 seconds.” Staged by the B, A.D. Company. Eleanor Dempsey Performing Arts Center is located at 13651 Hays Road, Hudson. For more information, visit www. ed-pac.org or call (727) 857-2604.

Weekends | February 26 - april 17, 2011 plus Friday, March 11 | 10 aM - 6 pM | rain or shine!

Free parkinG! | 800-779-4910 visit us at www.BayarearenaissanceFest.com

PAGE 20

SENIOR VOICE

FEBRUARY 2011

SENIOR GOURMET

Comfort Food for Florida Winters Spicy Chuck-Wagon Soup 2 tbsp. all-purpose flour 1 tbsp. paprika 1 tsp. plus 1 tbsp. chili powder, divided 2 tsp. salt 1 tsp. garlic powder 1 boneless beef chuck roast (3 lbs.), cut into 1-inch pieces 1/4 cup vegetable oil 2 medium onions, chopped

1 can (28 oz.) stewed tomatoes, undrained 1 can (10-1/2 oz.) condensed beef broth, undiluted 1 bay leaf 1/4 to 1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper 5 medium red potatoes, cubed 4 medium carrots, sliced 1 can (11 oz.) whole kernel corn, drained

In a large resealable plastic bag, combine flour, paprika, 1 tsp. chili powder, salt and garlic powder. Add beef, a few pieces at a time, and shake to coat. In a large soup kettle, brown beef in oil in batches. Stir in the onions, tomatoes, broth, bay leaf, cayenne and remaining chili powder. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add potatoes and carrots. Cover and simmer 35-40 minutes longer or until meat and vegetables are tender. Add corn and heat through. Discard the bay leaf before serving. Yield: 10 servings (4 quarts).

Hearty Garlic Potato Soup From a basic potato soup, personal touches were added to come up with this comforting recipe. The addition of garlic is wonderful. 8 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes 1 large carrot, peeled and chopped garlic cloves, peeled 2 cloves garlic, peeled

1/2 pound bulk Italian sausage small onion, chopped 1/4 cup butter 1/4 cup all-purpose flour cups milk 2 tsp. minced fresh parsley tsp. salt 1/2 tsp. chicken bouillon granules 1/2 tsp. seasoned salt 1/4 tsp. pepper

Place potatoes, carrot and garlic in a Dutch oven and cover with water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until tender. Drain. Place 3 cups potato mixture in a bowl and mash. Set aside mashed potatoes and remaining potato mixture. In a skillet, cook sausage and onion over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain and set aside. In a soup kettle, melt butter. Stir in flour until smooth; gradually add the milk. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until soup is thickened. Add parsley, salt, bouillon, seasoned salt and pepper; mix well. Add mashed potato mixture; cook and stir until heated through. Add reserved potato and sausage mixtures. Heat through. Yield: 12 servings (about 3 quarts).

Bacon Scalloped Potatoes 2 teaspoons butter 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1/4 teaspoon salt 3/4 cup milk

2 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced 2 small onions, sliced 3 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled

In a saucepan, melt butter. Stir in flour and salt until smooth. Gradually add milk. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. In a greased 1-quart baking dish, layer the potatoes and onions. Pour white sauce over the top. Cover and bake at 350 degrees for 65-75 minutes or until potatoes are tender. Sprinkle with bacon. Yield: 2 servings.

Ladle out satisfying servings of Spicy Chuck-Wagon Soup, Hearty Garlic Potato Soup or Chicken Vegetable Soup (shown below, from top). Who wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t welcome some on a chilly day? Recipes and photo courtesy of Taste of Home.

Chicken Vegetable Soup This recipe is low in fat but doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t taste like it. Even picky children like this vegetable-packed soup. 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes 2 cups chicken broth, divided 1 tsp. Italian seasoning 1 garlic clove, minced 1/4 tsp. paprika

4 small red potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces 3 small carrots, cut into 1/2-inch pieces 5 celery ribs, cut into 1/2-inch pieces 1 medium onion, cut into wedges 2 tbsp. chopped celery leaves 2 tbsp. all-purpose flour 2 tbsp. minced fresh parsley

1-1/2 tsp. lemon juice In a large saucepan, combine chicken, 1-3/4 cups broth, Italian seasoning, garlic and paprika. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 10 minutes. Add potatoes, carrots, celery, onion and celery leaves. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until vegetables are tender. In a small bowl, combine flour and remaining broth until smooth; add to pan. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Stir in parsley and lemon juice. Yield: 4 servings.

FEBRUARY 2011

SENIOR VOICE

PAGE 21

SENIOR TO SENIOR WOMAN SEEKING MAN

Subscribe Today! Don’t miss A Single Issue! Now you can get the Senior Voice of Florida delivered right to your mailbox! It’s just $14 for a one-year subscription to Florida’s Leading Newspaper for Active, Mature Adults.

Name: Address: City:

State: Visa

MasterCard

Check

Attractive WD F 65, 5’7”, 140 lbs., ISO W M 6580 friend with benefits for LTR. I love to traveling, sports, arts and much more. fishfree01@aol.com, St. Petersburg.

Card Number: Exp: Signature: Credit Card orders maybe faxed to (813) 433-5181. Mail Payments To: Senior Voice of Florida PO Box 270 • Lutz, FL 33548

EMAIL: SRTOSR@SENIORVOICEFLORIDA.COM

Senior to Senior

™

PO Box 13436 St. Petersburg, FL 33733 Email: srtosr@seniorvoiceflorida.com Fax Toll-Free: (866) 239-3913

I am a:

Lady

Gentleman

Loves Life WD W 63, Looking for love and caring LTR. I’m a retired healthcare worker and blonde. ISO a tender loving man. (727) 623-4043, St. Petersburg. Natural Blonde blue eyes, kind with good morals. Good cook. ISO a gentleman with same qualities who is also a good dresser for friendship. Ages 68-78. (727) 345-3489, St. Petersburg.

Zip:

Phone: Payment:

Tall, slim, attractive, fun, loving blonde A snowbird now, Floridian later. ISO W M, NS 65-73. Let’s talk and see if we can enjoy winter together. (513) 205-6314, Clearwater.

Friend to Friend

Please include the following FREE AD of up to 30 words describing me or what I look for in a friend or a date:

D W F NS ND Young at Heart looking to find a soul mate that has lots of love to give. If that’s you call me. (813) 802-5640, Tampa.

S W F 5’5”, 130 lbs., seeking S M 5’10” for taller, 55-70 years old. I like sports, walks on the beach, movies, theater, dinners and much more. (727) 678-4240, Largo. Healthy blonde and attractive S W F 53, 5’6”, Likes flea markets, yard sales, walks on the beach, dancing, movies and dining out. Sports fan, baseball and football. (727) 386-7296, Clearwater.

D J F 65, ISO gentleman 62-67 for friendship and companionship. Dining and dancing. You will not be bored with this attractive stylist professional lady. Good conversation. (727) 504-1132, St. Petersburg. S F NS ND Mid 60’s , 5’2”, 112 lbs., ISO a friend with benefits. If you are healthy and between 5565, 6 ft or taller. Please in the Tampa area, let’s talk. (813) 933-3748, Tampa. Slim, attractive fun-loving WD W F ISO 70+ gentleman for togetherness, dining, movies, day trips, friendship, possible romance and many activities. PO Box 7805, St Petersburg, FL 33734.

Phone: First & Last Name: City: To the Seeker: Your name will not be published, only your phone number or P.O. Box.A new form must be sent each month for the ad to continue. The publisher reserves the right to edit all material. Senior Voice of Floridamakes no promises and bears no responsibility for results or non-results. Fraudulent or unauthorized entries are a Federal offense. Submissions are accepted on a first-come basis, until page is full. Unused submissions will be carried over to the following month. Coupons must be received by the 10th of the month.

CROSSWORD ANSWERS • FROM PAGE 9

I am a young 75 blonde F 5’4”, 146 lbs., SOH, I have been told I have a great personality. How about you? (727) 441-2428, Clearwater. MAN SEEKING WOMAN I am a 64 year old male, tall, dark, slim with a home abnd a car. ISO a petite blonde with green eyes for LTR. (727) 623-9532, St. Petersburg.

S W M 59, 5’8”, 228 lbs., ISO NS W F for LTR or friendship. (727) 940-4183, Palm Harbor.

S W C M 77, 5’7”, 178 lbs., desires meeting a SWF about 75 or younger. I like dancing, day trips and playing bluegrass music. (727) 535-8585, Largo. Retired and kind hearted S W M NS D 71, 5’9”, SOH, from California. ISO a lady 60+ who is honest, fun-loving and enjoys travel and togetherness for a LTR. Snowbirds welcome. (727) 479-4421 after 4 p.m., Clearwater.

S W M SD 65, 5’10”, 155 lbs. , I am a smoker who is romantic and likes sports, malls, the beach, dancing. ISO SWF under 60 and less than 135 lbs. for romance and marriage. (727) 331-0700, Clearwater.

W WD S C M NS 64, 6’, 195 lbs., I am handsome and fit. I like tennis and church. ISO fit Christian who likes music and dancing. (727) 519-5597, Largo. Dark hair S W C M 55, 5’7”, 150 lbs., ISO SWCF, full figured, not fat, 55+ for good conversation, friendship, holding hands, TV and possible LTR. (727) 808-7225, Hudson.

Senior to Senior Abbreviations M: F: S: D: WD: W: B: H: J:

Male Female Single Divorced Widowed White Black Hispanic Jewish

C: ISO: LTR: NS: ND: SD: SOH:

Christian In Search Of Long Term Relationship Non-Smoker Non-Drinker Social Drinker Sense of Humor

WD W M 73, Looking for a lady 65-75. I like dining out, movies and books. (727) 323-0046, St. Petersburg. USAF Veteran S W M NS C 6’1”, 220 lbs., ISO attractive fit lady who likes humor, music, small dogs, walking, bicycling, billiards. Conversationalist. (727) 441-2903, Clearwater. S W M NS ND C seeking SWF 55-62. I am 56 years old, 5’6” and tired of being alone. Looking for LTR and a SOH. (813) 250-2870, Tampa. NS ND M 66, 6’1”, 190 lbs., I like baseball, billiards and fishing. ISO WSF under 55. Nice looks with a good figure. No Players. (727) 796-8756, Safety Harbor. Happy non-smoking 60ish gentleman ISO a financially secure 60ish lady for companionship and laughter. Share a mobile home and expenses. We can have a happy life together. (727) 278-6428, Clearwater. I am looking for a Latin lady. Height-weight proportioned and in your 60s. As a Latina I know you are romantic, that’s what I like about you. So give me a call. (727) 938-4900, Holiday. M NS ND 84, 6’, ISO a younger tall lady for LTR who has excess energy and is able to make music with me. Enjoy life. (727) 726-6844, . M 75, seeks 60+ F under 5’5” who is plump. NS, ND for close intimacy. No baggage, must be honest. (727) 329-6143, Clearwater. Ehere are the snows of yesteryear? Creative fellow, mid 60s, ISO serene, attractive soul mate. Progressive but not PC. Ready for a full relationship. (727) 799-3414, Ext. 14, Clearwater. S W M 6’, Few extra pounds, ISO a nice lady for companionship and possible LTR. (727) 365-2008, Largo. Love to cuddle? S W M NS SD SOH 55, 5’10”, Former radio DJ who is athletic, green eyes, trim beard/mustache. ISO SWF who is intelligent, honest, romantic and down to earth for a LTR. (727) 492-8164, St. Petersburg. FRIEND TO FRIEND Petite LADY ISO DWM 55-65 for companionship, friendship and travel. Possible LTR. (727) 474-5040, Clearwater. Dopey W M Average height, weight and health. Enjoys RV traveling, flea markets, etc. Shy and socially inept. ISO M F similar. Write PO Box 7609, Seminole, Fl 33775. , Seminole. Must love dogs and Steeler football WD W F 78, ISO NS, SWM near my age. Call after noon, let’s see if we have anything in common.. (727) 531-3554, Largo. Sincere straight S W F 59, I enjoy parks, travel, dancing, etc. ISO a girlfriend to chum around with or a kind good man. (727) 734-2891, Dunedin.

PAGE 22

SENIOR VOICE

RESIDENCES

The Landings of St Andrew 5852 Sea Forest Dr. • New Port Richey

411 First Ave N. St. Petersburg. FL 33701 • Great Downtown Location • Non Evacuation • Over- 55 Community • Why Buy-In? Rent Instead! • Delicious Chef-Prepared Dinner • Housekeeping & All Utilities, Inc. · Pet Friendly! See our ad on Page 3 or call for more information

0806@NCR.Org

www.WRH Realty.com

A beautiful 55 plus affordable housing apartment community. Situated 1/2 mile from the Gulf of Mexico First month rent free! Apartments start At $559. Community bus, pool, exercise room, and much more. Call for Details!

(727) 843-8900

(727) 894-6788

FEBRUARY 2011 BATHROOM UPGRADES THAT DON’T COST A BUNDLE You don’t have to spend lavishly to elevate the luxury quotient of your home’s bathroom. Skylights are one “luxury” upgrade that can be done on a moderate budget.

When it comes to creating a comfortable, energy-efficient ambiance in a room, it’s hard to beat Mother Nature. Natural light helps reduce dependency on artificial light sources and the electricity they consume and can have a positive effect on mood and overall health.

Affordable Senior Housing St. Petersburg 1035 Arlington Ave N St. Petersburg, FL 33705 Phone: (727) 896-5148 TTY: (800) 955-8771

You may hesitate to add a large, clear window to a bathroom, but skylights are a great way to add the luxuriousness of natural light without compromising on privacy. Choose a venting style, which can also be a cost-effective way to help vent humidity, steam and odors from a bathroom. New styles, like Velux America’s No Leak Skylight, eliminate leak worries; when properly installed, Velux skylights are no more prone to leaks than any other properly installed, quality window. Visit www.veluxusa.com to learn more.

SERVICES

MetLife Bank Reverse Mortgage

420 Bay Ave • Clearwater An affordable solution for Caring, Compassionate Service in the comforts of your own home. • Companionship • Escorts • Hospital Recovery • Simple Grooming and Dressing • Shopping & Errands • Laundry & Housekeeping • Safe Stabilization

Do you have arthritis, a general loss of mobility, or getting in and out of your bath is too difficult? We offer a Safer Bathing Experience! As General Contractors we can deliver expert installation with a lifetime guarantee. All at prices that fit your lifestyle and budget.

TIME TESTED TRUST Providing Medicaid/VA Planning Asset Protection KNOWLEDGE IS POWER Together we can discover your options Maureen Rulison, President

(727) 445-4076

813-448-3711

727-687-1647

License No. 228385

WALK-IN TUBS

www.walkinbathtubsFL.com

www.medicaidforseniors.com

We offer free Medicare Supplement quotes from leading companies like AARP and Mutual of Omaha. The enrollment period to switch from a Medicare Advantage to a Medigap has been extended to Feb. 15. If you already have a Medigap or are only on Medicare A & B you may purchase a new one at any time through the year.

(800) 495-1915 14219 Walsingham Ave., Suite L Largo, FL 33774

For years, MetLife has helped its customers build their financial independence—so they can focus on what’s most important in their lives. Now, MetLife Bank, a MetLife company, can help homeowners age 62 and older throughout the reverse mortgage process by providing information regarding this important mortgage option.

Chris Bruser MetLife Bank Reverse Mortgage Consultant

813-464-5221 All loans are subject to property approval. Certain conditions and fees apply. Mortgage financing provided by MetLife Bank, N.A., Equal Housing Lender.© 2010 METLIFE, INC. L0910133131[exp1011][All States][DC]

Superior and yet affordable Medicaid Planning and Filing We will provide to you our knowledge, technical skills and professional integrity so you can rest assured knowing that your loved one is well taken care of, even if his/her income and assets are exceeding Medicaid guidelines. Ljiljana (Lily) Cajic, Medicaid Specialist 15950 Bay Vista Dr., Suite 360 Clearwater, FL 33760 (727) 530-7500 mpfilc10@gmail.com

Direct Cremation Service no funeral services $945 Complete Incl. urn and death certificate Plan-ahead arrangements available Mark Grande, President (727) 785-0973 (24 hrs) 29399 US Hwy 19 N., Suite 370 Clearwater, FL 33761 www.EternalCremations.com Member of Better Living for Seniors and Guardian Association of Pinellas

Tampabay Massage Therapy

• • • •

& Wellness Center, Inc . (727) 392-2458 Massage relieves pain Improves Range of Motion Reduces Anxiety & Depression Feel Great – No Side Effects! AUTO INJURY CASES - PIP

Use Your FSA Benefits here! www.TampabayMassageTherapy.com

DON’T WAIT UNTIL IT’S TOO LATE TO CHANGE YOUR WIPER BLADES

Retired and Bored? Background in Sales?

We have a position for you! Take those skills you’ve acquired and put them to use selling for Senior Voice. Who better to sell for us than our readers? Full and part time positions open immediately. Flexible hours and areas.

Call Todd Goldman at (813) 949-0006

Clear vision is essential to safe driving, especially in the wintertime. Neglect your wiper blades and you may find yourself in hazardous weather situations with limited vision. The most important aspect of driving is being aware of your surroundings. When the weather takes a turn for the worse, a driver’s best friend is a set of wiper blades that leave your windshield with a consistent, clean, clear wipe. So when should you change your wiper blades? Whenever you see signs of wear like cracking or discoloration. Another indicator that it’s time for new wiper blades is by the quality of the wipe. Streaking or unwiped areas are a dead giveaway. If the blades make noise or chattering sounds, then they need to be replaced. If you’ve been procrastinating about changing your windshield wiper blades, take a few minutes today to change them. You’ll be glad you did.

FEBRUARY 2011

SENIOR VOICE

Invest in Smart Upgrades Before Selling Your Home Many seniors start thinking about selling their large home and moving into communities with full maintenance programs. Stop painting the house and stop being tied down to yard work all weekend. So now the hard part begins. They have lived in the house for many years. The kitchen, bathrooms and laundry room are out dated. The housing market is down and they want to make their house look great. What do they have to do? First, be cautious of all the signs along the side of the road that display “cheap prices.” They may or may not have insurance or any of the proper certificates to perform the work. An accredited place to check a company out is the Better Business Bureau or Angie’s List. (You must be a member.) Next, chain stores would love to totally redecorate your home. The question that must be asked, “what do I need to do for my home to sell?” It would be ideal to contact a reputable realtor in your area. Don’t sign any contract at this time just get his or her opinion on changes that have to be done to make your home more appealing to buyers. Getting a couple different quotes is best.

As you do your home work preparing the home improvements keep in mind the kitchen and master bath are the two areas the purchaser will focus on. Older homes usually have Formica counter tops which will not help in the sale of the home. Corian counters are better but old Corian will show its age. Granite is the counter top of choice with quartz right behind it. Both are priced similar with granite often less expensive. The cabinets in the home might be old but are probably fine with a little clean-up or possibly re-facing rather than new cabinets. The flooring could be an issue if the colors are from the ‘60s or ‘70s. Vinyl flooring must go and an inexpensive tile floor installed in the kitchen and bathrooms. Check out carpet deals in the area for the rest of the house. The key to this type of remodel is getting the most resale value for the money you spend. If you would like a professional opinion or quote, please contact Stone Saver, Inc., by calling (813) 949-7906 or visiting www. stonesaver.net. Stone Saver is located at 300 W. Lutz Lake Fern Rd., Lutz.

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Aging in Place Allows You to Keep Your Heart at Home Many Americans are “aging in place,” and they’re looking for ways to make their homes safe and comfortable for the long term. With just a few modifications, retired couples can make their homes perfect sanctuaries for their golden years. • Staying connected is important for many seniors, especially if they aren’t able to get out of the house as frequently as they used to. There are video/television systems and services available that allow you to chat with a person from a care program while sitting at your dining room table. Program staff can also monitor your house and contact a relative or emergency service if they notice you haven’t moved in awhile. • Independence is also very important, and this is especially true in the bathroom. Climbing over a bathtub wall becomes more difficult as people age and can also make the bathroom very dangerous for slips and falls. A walk-in bath has an easy step-in, step-out design with anti-slip floors and internal grip bars that allow you to safely — and independently — bathe in your own. • If you plan to stay active in your

community, you may need to make adjustments to your vehicle so you can safely and easily negotiate the controls from behind the wheel. Car manufacturers are adapting vehicles to accommodate seniors with such options as seats that swivel to face out the door. Other available adapters are dashboards that push back until the driver is in the seat and ready to start the car, buttons to control the radio and temperature on the steering wheel and sliding cabinets that help a person load items into the trunk — and get them out easier. • Make your home easily accessible. At least one entrance should be level with the walkway — you may need to build a ramp to accomplish this. Also consider changing the door handles to lever style so if a person is suffering from arthritis, they can still easily open the door. Finally, installing a good light at all the entrances will allow you to easily see where you are going and any potential obstacles that might be in your way. With a few modifications, your house can be a very comfortable and safe haven for many years to come.

LARGO ROOM FOR RENT Private bedroom and bath. Lady or gentleman, 70+. Use of kitchen, washer. Must have car. References. $350 per month. (727) 584-8926

LOVE TENNIS Subscribe Today to TennisLife (800) 600-4364 GET FIT FOR 2011 Jazzercise Lite (800) 348-4748 RETIRED AND BORED? Background in Sales? We have a position for you! Take those skills you’ve acquired and put them to use selling for Senior Voice. Who better to sell for us than our readers? Full and part time positions open immediately. Flexible hours and areas. Call at (813) 949-0006

Classified Ads Place your classified ad in the Senior Voice today. Clean out your garage, sell that car, advertise your services. Ads are priced from $40 for up to 20 words, plus a phone number. Additional words are $5. To place your ad, call (800) 600-4364, Ext. 221, or complete the form below and mail with a check payable to Senior Voice at PO Box 270; Lutz, FL 33548. You can also email your ad to sharon@ggpubs.com Deadline: 20th of the month for the next monthly issue. Name:

Phone:

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CLASSIFIED ADS

Heading: YOUR AD

Place your classified ad in the Senior Voice today. Clean out your garage, sell that car, advertise your services. Ads are priced from $40 for up to 20 words, plus a phone number. Additional words are $5. To place your ad, call (800) 600-4364, Ext. 221, or complete the form below and mail with a check payable to Senior Voice at PO Box 270; Lutz, FL 33548. You can also email your ad to sharon@ggpubs.com.

State:

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RBC Access USA from RBC Bank

Bleed:

Date Produced: 11/15/10

If you’re a Canadian living in the U.S., you have very unique banking needs. Fortunately, you have a very unique bank. RBC Access USA allows you to transfer money instantly, provides you with exclusive home lending solutions and allows you to take advantage of your Canadian credit history when applying for loans. You can also pay U.S. and Canadian bills with free online bill pay. It’s just another way we’re putting you first, wherever you are.

TRIM: 10” X 12.67”

CROSS BORDER AD

RBC Bank gives you easy access to your money on both sides of the border.

Live Area: n/a

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RBCC2090

FEBRUARY 2011

Insertion Date: January

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SENIOR VOICE

Publication: SENIOR VOICE

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Get access to your money seamlessly with RBC Access USA. Call 1-800 ROYAL 5-3 or visit a banking center today | rbcbankusa.com

Member FDIC. ©RBC Bank (USA) 2011. ®Registered trademark of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under license. RBC Bank is a trade name used by RBC Bank (USA) and its branch offices operate under this trade name. Loans subject to credit approval.

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