Senior Connection Mar. 2012 Hillsborough edition

• Travel: Callaway Gardens • Surviving the Unimaginable • Baby, You Can Drive My Car • Help Me Stop Smoking

Tending Our Little Flock— It’s All It’s Cracked Up To Be Dear Readers,

“I

t shouldn’t be this much fun to keep happy healthy chickens in your own backyard… but it is!” (from the online Janice Doyle, blog: Chicken Editor Keeping Secrets) These days if I wonder where Dear Husband is, there’s a good chance he’s out back on a “tour de coup.”

Our mixed-breeds “girls”—hens named Katarina and Ophelia (blacks), Click and Cluck (reds) and Dominique (black and white)—require some sort of checking on five or six times a day.

Reality? Nothing much changes in their coop or attached chicken yard during any 24-hour period. We find it fun, however, to just go out and watch their antics. Or toss them some (quite expensive) cracked corn. Or just stand and talk to or about our girls.

How we became suburban chicken ranchers is one of those marriage things.

I said: “I always loved chickens growing up on a farm.”

DH heard: “Janice wants chickens.”

The new-aluminum-porch-salesman said: “Hauling away the old wood is included in the cost.”

DH heard: “We’re planning to take cedar 4 x 4s and 2 x 8s to the dump! Some of it is past using, but the rest…”

A day later I asked: “What’s your new book?”

DH replied: “Raising Chickens for Dummies.”

And that’s how DH became Facilities and Maintenance Director for our little chicken ranch and I became Acquisitions and Distribution Manager.

His hand sketches and lists of supplies were free. Wire fencing, nails, hinges and locks were definitely not. He was “man, the provider” as Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 2

with the other girls. he flashed his credit To say “sounds like card at Home Depot a bunch of old hens” and wielded his power makes sense as we listen saw on boards stretched to their universal sound over sawhorses. The of braaaaap, braaaap. man and his tools beA good alpha rooster came a thing to behold. tells the world when the And then one day our sun is about to rise and pleasant chicken kingthen crows again when the dom was completed. sun has followed up on Our future girls would the statement. We don’t go in and out from think our neighbors would coop to yard on a clever Katarina enjoy that information, so ladder; their covered there will be no alpha rooster on our yard fence would allow no predators. ranch. That means no fertilized eggs.

A wire floor on the raised coop area I never explained that to Katarina, and offered the Maintenance Director she recently tried to “brood,” sitting on easy cleanup for the anticipated six a nest day and night like a good “mothor seven pounds of manure each er hen.” We didn’t leave her “nest egg” chicken is predicted to provide each under her (lest it become “a bad egg”). year (think flower beds here).

You get the picture. We have We took DH’s credit card and made our way to the Tractor Supply store in fresh eggs which I, as Distribution Manager, figure are now costing us Plant City to shop for supplies. Waabout $5 each considering expenses terer? Check. Feeder? Check. Grower mash? Check. Magazines for backyard to date. Because of the girls’ mixed heritage, one red hen lays dark brown chicken people like us? Check. eggs, the other lays large creamIt was time to find our first girls. colored eggs, and our little black From ads on Craigslist, we finally hens lay small creamy white eggs. chose four babies and settled in to get For us – empty nesters that we connected in a small way to the earth, to the reality of food sources, to nature. are – raising chickens has become a point of conversation, a joint Cliches based on chickens come endeavor we created together. to mind.

The fresh eggs? Well, they’re “Pecking order”: Katarina and really all they’re cracked up to be.

Ophelia were—and still are—at the And, if this makes you homesick top of the pecking order. Guess what? to have chickens, it’s cheaper to They’re just a family of siblings watch a flock live on hencam.com. who’ve had to work out how to I’m not kidding! Someone put a live together, as one writer said. webcam on their backyard flock.

We added Dominique recently We’ll not be doing that. and discovered that our girls didn’t want a stepsister and the pecking became real. She now has her own little coop next to the bigger yard, and Cluck sometimes still rushes the fence trying to henpeck her.

In the ad “Great Senior Events” Ophelia was “mad as a wet hen” that ran in last month’s edition, the when we carelessly left the nest box date for the Senior Fun Fest at the door open and she “flew the coop.” I St. Petersburg Coliseum was incorfound her circling the chicken yard, rectly listed as March 28. The event rushing headlong at the fence every will be held on March 27, 2012. few feet trying desperately to get back

Correction

Hillsborough Edition

Published monthly by News Connection U.S.A., Inc.

General Manager: Dave Tarantul davet@srmagazine.com

Publisher/Director of Events & Marketing: Kathy J. Beck kathy@srmagazine.com

Editor: Janice Doyle

janice@srmagazine.com

Accounting: Vicki Willis Production Supervisor Graphic Design: Kim Burrell Production Assistant: Tracie Schmidt Customer Service: 1-888-670-0040 customerservice@srmagazine.com Advertising Sales: Hillsborough/Pinellas 1-888-670-0040 Tampa Bay Area Dena Bingham: (813) 653-1988 Pinellas/Pasco Judy Young: (727) 430-5502 Chuck Bingham: (813) 293-1550 Sun City Center Judy Coleman: (813) 653-1988 Glenn Bornemann: (813) 500-6190 Distribution 1-888-670-0040 Corporate Advertising Office: P.O. Box 638 Seffner, Florida 33583-0638

(813) 653-1988 888-670-0040 Fax: (813) 651-1989 www.seniorconnectionfl.com

News Connection U.S.A. Inc., is also the publisher of

Lee/Collier and Charlotte Counties: Southwest Edition Sarasota/Manatee Counties: Sarasota Edition

Lake/Marion Counties: Lake Edition

888-670-0040

ATTENTION READERS: The articles printed in Senior Connection and Mature Lifestyles do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the Editor or the staff. The Senior Connection/ Mature Lifestyles endeavors to accept reliable advertising; however we cannot be held responsible by the public for advertising claims. Senior Connection/ Mature Lifestyles reserves the right to refuse or discontinue any advertisement. Our advertising deadline for the April 2012 issue is March 15, 2012.

Magazines are out by the 7th of each month.

All rights reserved.

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H5594_SNP_ADV2_File and Use_12252011 Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 3

Join The Florida Orchestra for

Anthony Georgeson, Principal Bassoon © Thomas Bruce Studio

Music in the Mornings

Veterans Pinning Ceremony to be at Senior Fun Fest!

J oin us at the annual Senior Fun Fest on March 27 at the historic St. Pete Coliseum. This year we are pleased to include a special pinning ceremony that will take place at 1:30 p.m. in the main stage area. Show your gratitude to our nation’s heroes by attending this very special event. Presented

by Veterans Funeral Care and Suncoast Hospice, the ceremony will include: • Honor Guard to call appointed veterans to the stage

• Speech and Presentation by Major General Wayne E. Rollings (ret.)

• Presentation by active-duty officer • Official pinning ceremony

Coffee Concerts

Best-Loved Symphonies

• Gift of antique 48-star flag to the oldest veteran on stage.

Teddy Abrams conducts this morning Coffee Concert featuring select movements from Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5, Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4, and Haydn’s Symphony No. 94 (Surprise). Enjoy complimentary coffee and doughnuts as well as a pre-concert conversation one hour before the concert.

• National anthem

The Senior Fun Fest is produced by the Senior Connection each year to promote businesses and services in the senior community. The event will take place from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. The Senior Fun Fest includes entertainment, bingo, health screenings and more.

The St. Pete Coliseum is located at 535 4th Avenue North, St. Petersburg.

Call (727) 892-5202 for directions.

See you there! For more information about the Senior Fun Fest, please call (813) 653-1988.

OPERATAMPA

Thu, Feb 9, 11am

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Progress Energy Center for the Arts - Mahaffey Theater

Viennese Delights

Stuart Malina conducts this matinee concert that features Strauss Jr’s TritschTratsch Polka, Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro Overture, Lehar’s The Merry Widow Overture. Complimentary coffee and doughnuts will be served.

2011 – 2012 SEASON PRESENTED BY HOMES BY HELEN

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April 20 7:30 p.m.

April 22 2 p.m.

Thur, Mar 8, 11 am

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Progress Energy Morning Masterworks

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Fri, Mar 16, 10 am

Progress Energy Center for the Arts Mahaffey Theater

727.892.3337 or www.FloridaOrchestra.org For group benefits (10 or more) : 727.362.5443

Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 4 TFO-Senior Connection-Feb.indd 1

1/9/2012 11:36:18 AM

813.229.STAR (7827) • OPERATAMPA.ORG OUTSIDE TAMPA BAY: 800.955.1045 GROUP SERVICES: 813.222.1018 or 1016

TICKETS:

Events, days, dates, times, performers and prices are subject to change without notice.

Around Town

W H AT ’ S H A P P E N I N G M A R C H 2 0 1 2

T

hrough June 24 “Spies, Traitors and Saboteurs: Fear and Freedom in America” presented by Tampa Bay History Center, 801 Old Water St., Tampa. $10/senior. For information call (813) 228-0097.

T

his month Register for Watercolor Classes (beginning and intermediate). USF classes at Tampa Jewish Community Center, 13009 Community Campus Dr., April 2 – May 21; 12:30 - 2:30 p.m. Register: (813) 974-2403 x 1 or usfseniors.org.

10

Wynton Marsalis, Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra at Straz Center. Tickets start at $33.50. Call (813) 229-7827.

10

Video: “Kickstart your Health” followed by a Live Vegetarian Cooking Demonstration at SouthShore Library, Ruskin.

1 – 2:30 p.m. Free. (813) 273-3652.

12 13

“Fun with Orchids” class, Lutz Library. 6:30 p.m. (813) 273-3652.

Jane Seymour, actress and speaker, at benefit 2012 Women of Distinction Luncheon by Girl Scouts of West Central Florida. 11:45 a.m. A La Carte Event Pavilion, 4050 Dana Shores Dr. $100/person. Online: gswcf.org/wod or (800) 881-4475, ext. 1690.

13

Sonny & Perley present songs by women composers. SouthShore Library, Ruskin. 2 p.m. Free.

Call (813) 651-1989 for information.

16

“Magritte and Me,” Surrealism, balloons and magic for all ages! $21 for seniors (65+)/ advance tickets. Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Rd. (813) 269-1310.

18

Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance performs at the Straz Center, Tampa. Tickets at box office or (813) 229-7827.

23

– 25 Oldsmar Days and Nights Festival. Foods, classic rock music, carnival, parade, vendors and spring sunshine. Admission and parking free. (813) 855-4233

24

Relive History Cruise aboard the WWII American Victory ship. Maritime ceremonies, flyovers, reenactments. Depart 10 a.m.; debark 4 p.m. Tickets $110 at (866) 468-7630 or americanvictory.org.

Einstein on Food & Wine at MOSI. Tastings. 7 – 10 p.m. $70/ non-members, advance purchase.

Info: (813) 987-6000 and mosi.org.

24 26 27

Class: “Florida Native Plants” at Seminole Heights Library. 6:30 p.m. (813) 273-3652.

Senior Fun Fest at St. Pete Coliseum. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Veterans Pinning Ceremony, 1:30 p.m.

Entertainment, free stuff. More information at (813) 653-1988.

31

Coin & Currency Show and Sale

by Brandon Coin Club at Elks Lodge, 800 Centennial Lodge Dr., Brandon. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free admission.

Free appraisals. Free coin grab bags for children under 12. (813) 361-0740 or msentllc@tampabay.rr.com Send Around Town news to Senior Connection Magazine, 1602 S. Parsons Ave., Seffner, FL 33584; please fax (813) 651-1989. News must be received by the 10th of the month prior to event (i.e. March 10 for April event.)

vietnam veterans ceremony March 24: Join a Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day ceremony at Hillsborough Veterans Memorial Park, 3602 U.S. Highway 301 N., Tampa (1/2 mile south of Florida Fairgrounds).

Honors Medal of Honor winners and celebrates Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day. Speaker: Major General David J. Scott, U.S. Army, Retired. Tuskegee Airmen families and special guests; POW/MIA remembrance ceremony by Rolling Thunder; performance by the Last Patrol; wreath remembering the 58,230 lives lost during the Vietnam War. Museum tours. Bring picnic items to share for lunch following 11 a.m. ceremony. Info at (813) 672-1778.

presents “Night,” “In the Middle, Somewhat Elevated” and “Age of Innocence”

ONE NIGHT ONLY!

MARCH 24 Tickets: 813.229.STAR (7827) STRAZCENTER.ORG Group Services: 813.222.1018 or 1016

Events, days, dates, times, performers and prices are subject to change without notice.

Anywhere Tours of Florida, Inc. If You Have Ten People or More We Can Pick Up at Your Location, Call For Our Pick Up Locations.

Sun City, Pick Up at Parking Lot North of Library On North Pebble Beach and Kings Point.

March 1, 5, 12 ,27 and April 11 and 25, 2012, Hardrock Tampa – Pick up 8:45 am, returns 3:30 pm, pay $15.00* get $15.00 free play and a $5.00 meal voucher. Evening pick up is at 3:45 pm, returns 10:30 pm*. Pay $15.00 *get $20.00 free play and get a $5.00 meal voucher.

March 14 and April 10, 2012, Seminole Casino Immokalee – Pay $25.00 and get $30.00 in free play and a $5.00 meal voucher. Bus boards 8:00 am and returns 6:30 pm.

March 16, 26 and April 11, 2012 - 8:30 am – 4:30 pm, Tour Of Tampa and Ybor City - See Tampa’s landmarks and visit sites. Visit Ybor City and Ybor Visitors Center, have lunch on your own at Cuban restaurant, stop at a Cuban bakery for bread and pastries, pay $25.00.

March 16, 2012, Boggy Bottom Ranch - St. Patrick’s Day – 200 Acre Ranch – In beautiful Keysville, FL – Pick up at 3 p.m. - returns 9 p.m. Includes: Motorcoach, Entertainment, Hayrides, Dancing. Food: BBQ Chicken, Ribs, Corned Beef, Cabbage, Cole Slaw, Baked Beans, Green Beer and more. $40.00 per person.

MUST HAVE A MINIMUM OF 30 PASSENGERS Anywhere Tours of Florida, Inc. For reservations or information – call our office at 813-620-3332 or visit our website – www.tampabus.com Ask about our day trips. ****All prices subject to change****

Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 5

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Call 727-892-5202 or 1-888-670-0040 • www.seniorconnectionfl.com Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 6

Live the Sporting Life for

BY EVELYN MACKEY

“W

hen all is said and done, it’s not the shots that won the championship that you remember, but the friendships you made along the way.”

Seniors universally know that regular exercise, along with a good diet, good medical care, good genes and a bit of luck, can postpone getting to that place called “old.” And today’s seniors are redefining “sports” as they accommodate damaged knees or hips—or as their bodies just plain say “slow it down, buddy.”

The thing is that they want to be outside living the sporting life because they still enjoy competing. An added bonus is that they don’t have to prove anything to anyone anymore as they adapt to less strenuous sports.

Here are some of the sports enjoyed in Florida:

Paddling Kayaking has become the favorite water sport for senior paddlers.

Kayaks are faster, easier to steer (because of the low profile) and easier to manage in strong wind than canoes. SOTs (Sit On Top) kayaks even come with a small wheel mounted under the stern to make it easy for one person to pick up and walk it to or from the water.

Paddle boats are yet another type of kayak propelled by your feet on pedals much like a cyclist would pedal—especially good for those with arm or shoulder problems who can’t wield the conventional paddle.

Lawn Bowling The sport of lawn bowling takes on the look of a scene straight out of The Great Gatsby with people dressed in white moving gracefully around a green court. It’s a fun lawn or court game where the objective is to roll slightly asymmetric balls so they stop close to a smaller ball (or bowl). Here in Florida it’s an outdoor sport which draws dozens of people who enjoy it as a low impact, therapeutic form of exercise.

Pickleball Pickleball is a court sport, sort of a combination of tennis and ping pong.

It’s played with lightweight paddles and whiffleballs with four players per court. Look around for a local group.

Shuffleboard Now being considered a “retro” sport by a younger generation, shuffleboard is a peaceful sport.

Health Fun and

There’s a soothing, quieting effect to the gentle scraping sound of the pucks on the court. Players use broom-shaped paddles to push weighted pucks down a narrow and elongated court hoping they’ll come to rest within a marked scoring area.

Of interest: The world-famous St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club is experiencing a surge in popularity by turning the club into a complete Friday night experience for all ages. Hundreds attend for food, music, dance and a feeling of acceptance. Trivia: In its heyday of the ‘30s through the ‘60s, the St. Pete club had 110 playing courts and a membership of over 5,000.

Horseshoes Horseshoes is an old sport, historically played most anywhere horses were found. The goal is to throw horseshoes at a stake in the ground with scoring based on how close the horseshoe gets to the stake.

Men and women who love this sport attest to its physical and mental attributes as an aid to staying young.

Physically there’s lots of walking, bending, resistance, etc. The mental workout includes using mental math, thinking for strategy, decision-making skills and much more. Add the social component and it sounds like the perfect sport!

Friendship

Cornhole Toss Cornhole or Corn Toss is a great driveway sport for ages 2 to 102.

It’s similar to horseshoes except you use wooden boxes called platforms and corn bags. Contestants take turns pitching their corn bags at the platform until a contestant reaches the score of 21 points.

This sport is more portable than horseshoes because it doesn’t require sandpits, so once you have your platform it becomes a takealong sport which builds flexibility and balance. It’s also great for those with mobility issues.

Other sports to consider are bocce ball, disc golf, badminton, archery—and good, old, free walking!

Helen Hayes was right when she proclaimed, “Resting is rusting.”

We can’t stop the clock, but we can slow its tick and enjoy life with sports and teammates.

Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 7

Yearning for the Past While Driving into the Future

BY JOHN C. LIBURDI

E

ven though many decades have passed since the Beatles song “Drive My Car” was a hit, Paul McCartney’s words still ring in our collective ears: “Baby you can drive my car.” Given that Paul was to be chauffeuring a lady star of the screen, the car had to be a grand automobile.

Such a car was easy enough to find back then, but a magnificent automobile might be rather difficult to find in this era of advanced technology and futuristic vehicles. My senility notwithstanding, one would have to agree that most of today’s cars look to be cold techno toys, not unlike scary UFOs. Back in the day, cars had real personality and powerful presence.

I yearn for the elegance of the sculptured fenders that graced my postwar Pontiac Torpedo, beautifully flared out with sweeping curves.

Like many other cars of the ‘40s, 50s and ‘60s era, its wheels were

adorned with big silver hubcaps, looking like four huge jewels.

I also miss the art deco hood ornaments that used to be on those cars, gleaming figures of jet aircraft, exotic animals and semi-nude women, all truly inspiring. Then there were those massive, curvy chrome bumpers of yesteryear, each one heavier than a trendy Smart car.

And much like that grouchy old lady at the counter in the burger joint once asked, “Where’s the beef?” I’m asking today’s automakers, “where’s the fins?”

The dramatic evolution of the automobile is clearly evident in today’s advertising hype.

Forget about the car’s mechanical attributes; instead, everyone is excited about how many channels the satellite radio receives, how the navigation system leads the driver by the nose to a given destination, and how upscale cars autonomously maneuver into a parking spot while the stupid humans inside just watch.

Now everyone is suddenly fascinated with those highly innovative push-button starters, like our cars had way back when.

Of course, people who market high tech autos hide the fact that a driver can’t yell at his kids in the back seat anymore; to do so would get the car’s computer all confused about the voice commands he previously screamed into the dashboard.

It’s true that my lingering love for old cars is largely a matter of infatuation, but it’s not that I’m stubbornly stuck in the past. The new cars are just becoming stranger and stranger to me as technology evolves.

I guess some of us are simply destined to suffer from future-shock.

Indeed, the day is coming when cars will travel without a driver at the wheel.

Research engineers are eagerly working to bring that concept into being.

When it happens, we’ll all be relegated to mere passenger status and, sad to say, Paul McCartney won’t be able to drive that big car for his Hollywood diva anymore.

On the bright side however, the two of them will be able to enjoy more time together in the rear seat, just like we did back in the good old days!

(Liburdi lives in the Charlotte, NC metro area. His recent book ItalianAmerican Fusion: Italy’s Influence on the Evolution of America is available at internet bookstores and on the Kindle e-reader.)

The Pontiac Torpedo.

AARP Driving Classes Take a class in March:

9

St. Francis Catholic Church, 4450 CR 579, Seffner. 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (813) 618-9115.

13

Florida Hospital, 3100 E. Fletcher, Tampa. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 1-877-482-4362.

19

Bruton Library, Plant City.

10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

(813) 757-9215.

26

Hyde Park Methodist Church, 500 W. Platt, Tampa. 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

(813) 289-1268.

Call the number given to make a reservation. The cost for AARP members is $12. Non-AARP members pay $14.

Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 8

Finally, a cell phone that’s… a phone with rates as low as $3.75 per week!

st ne Be Pho 2 ll 201 Ce of

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Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 9

Avoiding Ruffled Feathers: Safety And Tech Tips For Snowbirds

I

f you’ve spent the winter here, you’ve joined almost 1 million North American “snowbirds.” With technology has come new considerations for closing up the winter house and heading north. Best tips for leaving a house behind until next winter include:

Retirement Living

Security and Remote Monitoring Before the bags are packed, you may want to investigate new products that put technology to work while you’re gone. For peace of mind, new services now remotely monitor and control your home’s security and thermostat

from a smartphone or computer. You can remotely arm or disarm the alarm system and control lighting, household appliances and the thermostat. With connected cameras, you can monitor the home from anywhere in the worldeven receive instant text messages when doors are opened or closed.

Telecommunications Services David Gregg, of behindthebuy. com, shares the following advice on telephone, cable TV and Internet services: “Instead of making two separate calls, check out cablemover. com for disconnecting your TV, phone and Internet at your current home and reconnecting at your summer address.

And it doesn’t matter if your cable service provider is different in each location. The best part is, once you are ready to return, you can use the same service again to reverse the process.”

Freshen Up! A dormant home will inevitably become stuffy. Keep it return-ready with a new type of air purifier that cleans the air and prevents the spread of allergens such as mold or mildew. Air purifiers with true HEPA filters capture 99.9 percent of particles and impurities. Put the unit on a timer and your air purifier automatically senses air quality levels and neutralizes viruses/ bacteria, keeping your indoor air clean.

Don’t Forget the Basics Gizmos are great, but remember to turn off your refrigerator or turn it down to the lowest setting and unplug your electronics. For those items that can’t be unplugged, be sure to use a surge protector. Consider new devices that power down appliances and tech devices that consume phantom power (power you continue to use even after you hit the off button) saving you money on your electric bill.

For more tips and ideas on how to smooth your annual snowbird migration, check out cablemover.com. (NAPSA)

This Month at the Straz Center DRIVE IN. DENTS OUT. 25 T $ 100 OFF 27 10 11 27 FREE RENTAL CAR 21 It’s a good month at the Straz Center:

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Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 10

FAST, FLAWLESS, FOR LESS .

– April 1 Come Fly Away (the legendary vocals of Frank Sinatra).

National Geographic Live!

Beyond the Invisible: Secrets President Bill Clinton—Embracing of the Blue Holes with cave diver/ ecological anthropologist Kenny Broad.

Our Common Humanity.

• FREE EXACT Quote in 10 Minutes

• ONE DAY Repairs on Most Vehicles

Good vs. Evil: An Evening with Anthony Bourdain and Eric Ripert.

Sun City Center Fun

T

hese activities will be held at the United Community Church, 1501 La Jolla Ave., Sun City Center.

16

Fantastic Friday Dinner and Theater with an evening of song and dance by the University of Tampa Music and Theatre Department. $17 for 6 p.m.

catered dinner and show/ $5 for 7 p.m. show only.

Call (813) 634-1304.

23

Adult Spelling Bee sponsored by Community Church College as a fund raiser for the College. Participate or watch. Silent auction, refreshments.

7 p.m. $10. Info at (813) 634-8607.

It was painless.

No scar where the cancer was removed.

NO shots!

NO stitches!

NO pain!

As featured on “THE DOCTORS” NBC affiliate WFLA-8 and CBS affiliate WFTS-10 Seth B. Forman, MD Diplomate, The American Board of Dermatology 4915 Ehrlich Road • Tampa, FL 33624

813.960.2400

www.Formanderm.com New Medicare Patients Welcome

WE LOVE OUR SENIORS. You built our great country.

It is an honor to serve you!

Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 11

The EASY BOARDING Bicycle by

Quick Facts About Aging

An Upsurge in the 90-Plus Population ver the last 30 years, the ranks of Americans 90 and older have tripled, with three women for each man.

They now total 1.9 million, and a report from the U.S. Census Bureau says the number could reach 9 million by 2050. Factors fueling the aging boom include the decline in smoking, improved nutrition and public health, diabetes control and fewer strokes. Another factor: a higher educational level, which has been linked to better health. Forty percent of the men in the 90-plus group were married; 80 percent of the women were widows.

“Ranks of people reaching age 90 tripled since 1980: report” Reuters, Nov. 2011

Marathon RecordBreaker Is 100 Years Old It took him eight hours, and he came in dead last, but Fauja Singh was smiling when he crossed the finish line at the Toronto marathon. No wonder. At the age of 100, he had become the oldest person to ever complete the 26-mile run. Singh, who was born in rural India and wore a yellow turban for the race, entered his first marathon at age 89. He attributes his good health and longevity to his vegetarian diet, which does not include alcohol or cigarettes, and daily exercise—a walk or run of up to 10 miles a day.

Ed Payne, “Centenarian completes marathon, sets record” CNN, Oct. 2011

Lifestyle Changes May Boost the Memory Some basic lifestyle changes may help with age-related memory loss and perhaps more serious cognitive problems, according to a recent study published in the journal Lancet Neurology. Summarizing evidence from hundreds of studies, the findings indicate that up to half of all Alzheimer’s cases are associated with a group of risk factors that people can control including midlife obesity, depression, smoking and a couch-potato body and brain. Experts also point out that occasional memory lapses are rarely signs of incipient Alzheimer’s or dementia.

When younger people are forgetful, it’s usually because they’re distracted and not creating memories efficiently.

“Forgetfulness at an early age is rarely a sign of early dementia” The Washington Post, Oct. 2011

International Aging Traditionally, younger members of Canadian families have seen to the care of their parents as they aged. In fact, Canadian friends and family provide 80 percent of such caregiving. But according to a new report from the Institute for Research on Public Policy, that arrangement may be threatened for a number of reasons, including an insufficient number of family members available to provide care.

It is estimated that by 2031, 25 percent of women aged 65 or older will have no surviving children.

“Caregiver shortage ‘major cause of concern’” The Montreal Gazette, Nov. 2011

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BOOST® Sampling Tour Coming To You!

P

eople in the U.S. are living longer than ever before. Many seniors live active and healthy lives. But the simple fact is that, as we age, our health and nutrition needs change. To stay fit, it’s important to get the right amount of nutrition in your daily diet.

But even if you know which nutrients you need every day, if you don’t have much of an appetite or if health problems make eating difficult, it’s sometimes hard to fit in the calories, protein, vitamins and minerals that are essential for healthy aging.

Complete Nutritional Drinks can help seniors fill the nutritional gap that their meals don’t cover. BOOST® is offering samples of their product at upcoming Senior Fun Fests in St. Petersburg and Port Charlotte.

(Learn more about BOOST Complete Nutritional Drinks at boost.com.)

As part of a 20-week Florida Sampling Tour, a number of expos and events attended by senior communities will be offering samples of different BOOST flavors and formulations.

Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 12

BOOST is also partnering with Walmart to sample the product at more than 70 stores. Giveaways include coupons, educational materials and a BOOST reusable tote bag. In addition, consumers can try the “Which BOOST is Right for You” iPad app.

“We are pleased to reach out to the Florida senior community through the BOOST Sampling Tour,” said Abigail Buckwalter, Marketing Manager.

“The tour will offer an immersive experience that educates seniors about the benefits of BOOST and inspires them on the road to healthy living.”

Join us for a great opportunity to meet our friends from BOOST at these upcoming Senior Fun Fests. March 27 at the St. Pete Coliseum, 535 Fourth Avenue North, St. Petersburg from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m, (727) 892-5202.

Also on April 12 at the Cultural Center of Charlotte County, 2280 Aaron Street, Port Charlotte from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (941) 625-4175. For more information about the Senior Fun Fests, call 1-888-670-0040.

Information from MetLife: MatureMarketInstitute.com.

Normal T-Score? Skip the Bone Density Test

Dermatology Francis A. Caban, M.D., P.A. Caban Skin Institute

W

omen over 67 with normal bone mineral density scores may not need screening again for 15 years, according to a new study. Prior to this, how often women should be screened was a topic that remained controversial and undecided.

“If a woman’s bone density at age 67 is very good, then she doesn’t need to be re-screened in two years or three years, because we’re not likely to see much change,” Margaret Gourlay, M.D. said. “Our study found it would take about 15 years for 10 percent of women in the highest bone density ranges to develop osteoporosis. That was longer than we expected, and it’s great news for this group of women,” Gourlay said.

Board Certified by the American Board of Dermatology

Specializing in Diseases of Skin, Hair and Nails • Mole Evaluation, Rashes, Acne, Psoriasis, Skin Ulcers, Dry Skin • Skin Cancer Evaluation and Treatment • MOHS Surgery for Skin Cancer or Radiation Treatment (no cutting, no stitches) They also learned that older postmenopausal women with a T-score -2.0 and below will transition to osteoporosis more rapidly, while women with T-scores higher than -2.0 may not need screening again for 5 to 15 years, Information from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine.

Come in for your yearly full body exam.

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901 N. Clearwater Largo Road • Largo, FL 33770 www.healthsouthlargo.com Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 13

Walk Better and Get Rid of Your Pain

BY DR. BONNIE SANCHEZ, DPM Board Certified ABPOPPM

Y

ou were designed to walk on natural forgiving surfaces like sand and soil. However, you walk, run and stand on unnatural hard, level and unforgiving surfaces. We have lost our “footprint,” that beautiful curving design that absorbs each steps’ impact and transfers energy into the spring in your step.

The loss of your footprint slows you down and results in pain throughout your body, not just your feet. As your feet attempt full contact with the ground, they roll over and flatten out. This functional change leads to aches and pains in your feet, ankles, knees, hips and even your back.

Neuropathy & Other Foot Problems?

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Bunions Heel Spurs Come See Orthotics My New Neuropathy Office Hammertoes Tendon Strain Plantar Fasciitis Ugly/Painful Toenails Diabetic Footcare & Shoes

Why suffer any longer? Come see us, your gentle touch Doctor of Podiatry.

Call to see the Doctor (727) 824-5100 or (813) 645-1993 Medicare, United healthcare, Blue Cross/Blue Shield and Other Insurance

Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 14

I restore your feet to their natural position by placing them in full ideal contact with your surroundings. This allows your feet, ankles, knees, hips, and back to function in harmony as they were designed.

This return to ideal position relieves many of your aches and pain.

Dr. Bonnie Sanchez is a Board Certified Podiatrist by the ABPOPPM. She is a native of Tampa and trained at the New York College of Podiatry. Dr. Sanchez has been a health care professional since 1979. Her telephone numbers are (727) 824-5100 in Pinellas and (813) 645-1993 in Hillsborough.

Medicare Answers Dear Marci, I just found out I am eligible for a Medicare Savings Program. How do I apply? —Yvonne

M

edicare Savings Programs (MSPs) help pay your Medicare costs if you have limited finances.

There are three main programs: QMB, SLMB and QI. Each program has different income eligibility limits.

You should call your local Medicaid office for exact rules on how to apply for an MSP in your state.

Many states allow you to submit your application online, through the mail or through community health centers or other organizations.

The list of documents that you will need to include with your application varies by state. Contact your local Medicaid office to find out what documents you need.

Examples of documentation that may be required include:

• Social Security card • Medicare card • Birth certificate, passport or green card • Proof of your address, such as an electric bill • Proof of your income, such as a Social Security Administration award letter, income tax return or pay stub • Information about your assets, such as bank statements, stock certificates or life insurance policies —Marci Marci’s Medicare Answers is a service of the Medicare Rights Center (medicarerights.org). To speak with a counselor, call (800) 333-4114.

Help Me Stop

Y

ou think you’ve tried everything and your question now is: What can I do to stop smoking if the “standard” treatments don’t work for me?

Q. I am an 84-year-old woman who

recently had stents placed in two coronary arteries. The doctors, of course, told me to quit smoking. I told them, as I have told all of my other doctors, that I have tried to quit but just can’t. I have tried the patch and Chantix, but neither worked.

Support groups aren’t for me. I have cut back, but that’s as far as so-called willpower goes. Hearing over and over again that I need to quit leaves me feeling depressed and weak. Is there some news about current or future approaches that might give me and others like me some hope?

A. Before I answer your question,

let me congratulate you for having tried to quit smoking and urge you to try again. It often takes smokers several “tries” before one takes hold.

As you have discovered, nicotine is a highly addictive substance. For most smokers, “willpower” alone is not enough. Fortunately, smokers today have a number of tools to fight tobacco addiction. Quit-smoking aids include nicotine replacement (nicotine patches, gums, lozenges, inhalers, and sprays), bupropion (Zyban, Wellbutrin), varenicline (Chantix), counseling and behavior-change therapy, and social support. None are miracle workers.

You mentioned having tried the nicotine patch. Dr. Nancy Rigotti, director of the Tobacco Research and Treatment Center at Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital, said that some smokers find success

moking!

by adding to the patch a short-acting nicotine replacement product, like nicotine gum, lozenges or an inhaler to handle breakthrough cravings the patch can’t counteract.

You also mentioned that Chantix didn’t help you. Some people find that Zyban works better for them than Chantix. Researchers are testing whether combining Zyban or Chantix with nicotine replacement is a safe and effective treatment for smoking cessation.

You also said that support groups aren’t for you. You don’t have to join a group to get support. You can get free, helpful support from the comfort of your home by calling the national quit line at 800-QUIT-NOW. For some people, support is the missing piece of the solution, says Dr. Rigotti.

For most smokers, “willpower” alone is not enough. Fortunately, smokers today have a number of tools to fight tobacco addiction.

Several new treatments are under development and investigation. On the medication front, a class of drugs called cannabinoid receptor antagonists may someday be used to help smokers quit. Also in the development pipeline are several anti-nicotine vaccines. They prompt the body to make antibodies to nicotine. When nicotine enters the bloodstream, these antibodies bind to it. If cannabinoid receptor antagonists or vaccines pan out as safe and effective smoking cessation aids—and that is a big if—it will be years before they are on the market.

Please don’t wait for treatments that may never materialize. You have already made a good start by cutting back. Now work with someone who specializes in smoking cessation to figure out a plan tailored for you. I hope this answer doesn’t make you feel weak but that it gives you some hope and power.

—Thomas Lee, M.D., Editor in Chief, Harvard Heart Letter.

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Astigmatism?

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Call toll-free 1-855-441-2020 to schedule a consultation today.

• To help you get rid of glasses and contacts*, we offer a wide range of treatment options that fit your needs, lifestyle & budget.

• Our ophthalmologists are some of the most experienced surgeons in the Tampa area. ©2012 LCA-Vision Inc. dba Visium Eye Institute. *Individual results vary, glasses may still be needed.

As with any surgery, there are possible risks. Call or visit our website for more information.

2202 North West Shore Blvd.

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BRANDON HEARING CENTERS You’ll hear the difference!

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Patty takes pride in her service to the community, celebrating more than 45 years in Brandon and Sun City Center.

Patty Paddock, BC-HIS Best of Brandon & South Shore 2007-2011 “We work together to find the best Hearing Aid for your need.”

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• Call for A FREE Hearing Test • Credit and debit cards accepted • We clean and service most makes and models of hearing aids.

2 locations to better serve you.

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205 E. Brandon Blvd., #C 1517 #C Shopping Center Dr. Brandon, FL 33511 Sun City Center, FL 33573 E-mail us at: BrandonHearingCenters@yahoo.com Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 15

When Should You Worry about “Senior Moments?”

E

Serving The Dental Needs of the Community Since 1974

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Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 16

veryone experiences occasional episodes of forgetfulness. When an older loved one has a few episodes of forgetfulness, friends and family members may wonder whether those misplaced keys or trouble finding the right word in a conversation is the result of normal age-related changes in memory or an early sign of something more serious. The characteristics of these forgetful moments often offer clues as to whether Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia may be the underlying problem. For example: Recognizing and discussing episodes of memory loss. If the person complains about memory loss and can provide details about the episode of forgetfulness, normal aging is more likely. With dementia, it’s common that the person affected will only complain about memory problems if she’s asked about them and won’t be able to recall specific instances.

Worry about memory loss. When dementia occurs, the person affected is often much less concerned about memory loss than her family members are. The reverse is true for normal age-related memory problems.

Losing the way. If your loved one doesn’t get lost in familiar surroundings but does sometimes pause momentarily to remember the way, normal aging is likely. But if

she gets lost in familiar territory while walking or driving and takes hours to return, Alzheimer’s or dementia should be a concern.

Word-finding problems.

Occasional trouble finding the right word probably isn’t worth worrying over, but frequent wordfinding pauses and substitutions—for example, calling the telephone “the ringer” or “that thing I use to call you”—are typical of dementia.

Changes in abilities and social skills. While it isn’t uncommon for an older adult to be unwilling to operate new devices or to fumble a bit with their cell phone or DVR, it’s a warning sign if the person has trouble operating common appliances like the dishwasher or has trouble using even simple new devices. Also, if the person has lost interest in social activities or if his or her social skills are in decline, it’s worth noting.

Of course, while these tips can help distinguish between normal age-related memory changes and dementia, concerns about memory problems should be brought to the attention of a doctor.

The above is from the book“A Guide to Alzheimer’s Disease,” available for $18 from Harvard Health Publications, online at health.harvard.edu/Alzheimers0112 or by calling 877-649-9457 (toll-free)

Elder Helpline 1-800-963-5337 www.agingflorida.com

What Is It About Coffee? affeine is the most commonly consumed psychoactive drug in the world, and some of its behavioral effects (such as arousal) may resemble those produced by cocaine, amphetamines and other stimulants.

Coffee consumption accounts for about 75 percent of the adult intake of caffeine in the United States, although that might be changing among younger adults with the growing popularity of energy drinks.

Health The caffeine content of coffee varies greatly depending on the beans, how they’re roasted and other factors, but the average for an 8-ounce cup is about 100 milligrams (mg).

Tea has about half as much caffeine as coffee. Decaffeinated coffee has some caffeine, but the 2 to 4 mg in an

8-ounce cup is a smidgen compared with the caffeinated version.

The lethal dose of caffeine is about 10 grams, which is equivalent to the amount of caffeine in 100 cups of coffee.

Caffeine gets absorbed in the stomach and small intestine and then distributed throughout the body, including the brain. The amount circulating in the blood peaks 30 to 45 minutes after it’s ingested and only small amounts are around eight to 10 hours later. In between, the amount circulating declines as caffeine gets metabolized in the liver.

Tobacco and marijuana accelerate caffeine metabolism, which reduces the time caffeine circulates in the body. Oral contraceptives slow it down, so they have the opposite effect.

Researchers have identified genes that influence a person’s natural risk of caffeine metabolism, which might explain why some people are

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150 exquisitely sensitive to caffeine while others are not.

Caffeine probably has 80** 100 multiple targets in the brain, but the main one seems to be adenosine receptors.

35* 50 Adenosine is a brain chemical that dampens brain activity. By hogging ad0 8 oz. “short” 8.4 oz. can 8 oz. cup enosine’s receptors, caffeine cup of Starbucks’ of Red Bull of Lipton sets off a chain of events “bold” coffee green tea that affects the activity of single tea bag steeped in 8-ounce cup dopamine, another important *35 mg presumes a**Per 8.4-ounce can brain chemical, and the the physiological and psychological areas of the brain involved effects of physical exertion. But, in arousal, pleasure and thinking. especially in the short term, it also has A part of the brain affected by negative effects that include raising Parkinson’s disease, called the striablood pressure, making arteries stiffer tum, has many adenosine receptors; and increasing levels of homocysteine, by docking on them, caffeine seems insulin, and possibly cholesterol. to have some protective effects.

Habitual use may cause some of these Outside the brain, caffeine effects to wear off. For some conditions, can be a performance enhancer, though, coffee may have some benefit boosting the strength of muscle despite, rather than because of, caffeine. contraction and offsetting some of

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HEARING LOSS

Lisa Ellen Tanner, Au.D., earned her Doctorate in Audiology from the University of South Florida. Dr. Tanner is the director of Advanced Diagnostics and Hearing Solutions. At Advanced Diagnostics and Hearing Solutions, Dr. Tanner offers hearing care for both children and adults. Dr. Tanner provides complete hearing evaluations, tinnitus evaluations and cochlear implant candidacy evaluations. She prescribes and fits the highest technology of hearing aids and assistive listening devices. In addition, Dr. Tanner offers cochlear implant programming/mapping for Advanced Bionics and Cochlear Americas processors and

FROM: Dr. Lisa Tanner

BAHA programming. Dr. Tanner is passionate about hearing health care. She offers many audiological services, as well as counseling and education in hearing preservation, hearing loss and tinnitus. Dr. Tanner is a licensed audiologist in the state of Florida, is certified, and is a member of the American-Speech-LanguageHearing Association. In addition, Dr. Tanner is a fellow of the American Academy of Audiology, the Florida Academy of Audiology and the Academy of Doctors of Audiology. Dr. Tanner serves on the Florida Board of the Hearing Loss Association and is an active member of Business Networking International.

813-643-6767

38034 Medical Ctr. Ave.

1425 South U.S. 301

SOLUTIONS

824 N. Parsons Avenue Brandon, FL 33510

Zephyrhills Sumterville

GET ANSWERS ABOUT

ASSISTED LIVING RESIDENCE

Assisted Living Facility License #9353

RSVP with Jan Reserve your seat TODAY Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 17

Hawthorne Village Retirement Community Hawthorne Estates Independent Living Apartments Discover the Estates...and simplify your lifestyle.

The Estates is an intimate, elegant community for those 55 or better. We offer our tenants freedom, comfort, convenience and best of all, affordability.

ost everyone wants to stay in their own home as they age. Today, that is referred to as “aging in place.” Often a simple solution can make that possible for you or someone you love.

Challenge: Difficulty getting up from a seated position from a chair or sofa.

At the Estates, our tenants enjoy an array of wonderful services, from our delicious meals served twice daily, to our housekeeping and linen services. We help lighten burdensome chores.

Imagine the convenience of no utility bills, taxes or ongoing home repairs. More importantly, all you pay is an affordable monthly rent.

For your safety, each elegant apartment is equipped with an emergency call system, smoke alarms, a complete sprinkler system, and a daily check-in system. Your spacious bathroom also includes many special safety features.

At the Estates you will meet old friends and make new ones. We encourage participation in our recreational, social, and educational events to give our tenants the opportunity to enrich their lives, while respecting their desire for privacy.

As the Estates Manager, I welcome you to come in for a tour of our lovely building. A variety of apartment styles are available on rental basis with no endowment fees. Let us help you simplify your lifestyle! We look forward to showing you all that we have to offer you here at Hawthorne Village.

Hawthorne Village

Patti Bramble Estates Manager

M

Aging In Place Solutions

Solution: Furniture risers can lift the legs of a couch up 3 – 4 inches. Ask a carpenter to put 4-inch risers on the back legs of a sofa and 3-inch risers on the front legs of a sofa.

Challenge: Getting in or out of bed

Solution: A bedrail/bedcane slides easily between the mattress and box springs of most beds. A bed pull-up strap will also enable someone to pull up (or turn to the side) of a bed from a prone position.

Solution: An electric seat assist is best used on a sofa or seat with a softer cushion.

Solution: Have a handyman build a 3-inch platform under a recliner to make getting up and down simpler.

Information by Adam Fine, Accessible Design & Consulting, Inc.

RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

v Hawthorne Health & Rehabilitation Skilled Nursing & Out Patient Therapy Hawthorne Inn Assisted Living

v

Hawthorne Estates Retirement Apartments

851 W. Lumsden Road • Brandon, FL 33511

(813) 661-8998

www.hawthornevillageofbrandon.com AL License #9949

A licensed, bonded and insured home care agency providing quality and compassionate assisted living in the comfort of your own home.

Spring Clean for Hospice

S

pring cleaning? Consider donating your gently used items to one of the Gulfside Regional Hospice Thrift Shoppes: Dade City: (813) 782-7200; Lutz (813) 909-0485; Zephyrhills (813) 788-5461.

To volunteer, call (727) 845-5707.

LifePath Hospice stores: Carrollwood (813) 969-2049; Tampa (813) 259-1028.

To volunteer: (813) 871-8737.

Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 18

Helping People Stay at Home & Healthier Longer

Is Now On and

Find fun pictures, videos and info, or share your comments with us!

Visit twitter.com/MaturLifeStyles (without the “e”) Or go to our website: www.seniorconnectionfl.com and click on our Facebook icon.

Caregivers assist you and your family with: • Personal Care • Homemaking • Medication Reminders • Home Cooked Meals • Bathing and Dressing • Transportation • Safety Monitoring • Companionship No minimum number of service hours and 24/7 RN Supervision

Call today for a free care assessment and Pre-Service Caregiver Interviews upon request Hillsborough, Manatee & Polk

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All Caregivers are employed by Arcadia – no independent contractors arcadiahealthcare.com/stpetersburg • arcadiahealthcare.com/tampa A tradition of quality and dependability since 1978

Do I Need a Pap Test at Age 75?

Q . I’m 75 years old and healthy. My doctor is still recommending annual Pap tests for me. I have no history of any problems in this area and have had normal Pap tests for years. Is this necessary at my age?

A. If you’ve had routine

normal Pap tests up to now, you’re unlikely to need further screening, as your risk for cervical cancer is very low. The three organizations that set guidelines for cervical cancer screening generally agree on this matter. The American Cancer Society recommends that Pap test screening be discontinued at age 70 in women who have had at least three normal Pap tests in the past 10 years and are not at increased risk for cervical cancer.

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force says that women at average

risk for cervical cancer can stop Pap test screening at age 65. And according to the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, women at average risk can stop screening between the ages of 65 and 70.

This guideline doesn’t apply if a woman has tested positive for human papillomavirus (the sexually transmitted virus associated with cervical cancer), or has been exposed to diethylstilbestrol (DES) in utero, or is HIV-positive or immune-compromised or otherwise at increased risk for cervical cancer (for example, because of a past history of the disease). In any of these circumstances, a woman should work with her clinician to develop an individualized screening program.

— Celeste Robb-Nicholson, M.D. Harvard Women’s Health Watch

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Honor Flight Scheduled T

he next Honor Flight of West Central Florida (HFWCF) is scheduled for Tues., April 3. The one-day flight will take 75 World War II veterans to Washington, D.C., to see the memorials built on the National Mall as a tribute to their service. Veterans will fly free and will be

accompanied by a guardian.

Volunteer guardians must be under age 76 and make a $400 tax deductible donation to help cover expenses.

Both guardians and veterans go to honorflightwcf.org to complete the application. Mail to HFWCF, P.O. Box 55661, St. Petersburg, FL 33732.

Walk for MS J

oin the Mid Florida Walk MS March 24 from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo, 1101 West Sligh Ave. Required registration for both the one- and two-mile walks begins at 5:30 p.m. and the walk kicks off at 6:30 p.m. Both walks are fully accessible and fun for the family. Walk as an individual, join a team or create a team. A $20 minimum donation is requested per participant.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, often disabling disease that attacks the central nervous system. For more information, please call (813) 889-8363 ext. 201.

Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 19

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Seven Ways to Exercise on the Cheap

BY KATE FORGACH

I

f you’re having trouble keeping up with highimpact aerobics and jogging, maybe you can still find ways to get your exercise. Try these tips:

1. Go It Alone: It takes discipline to maintain your own workout schedule, but joining an expensive health club isn’t really a necessity. We tell ourselves paying for membership will force us to exercise, but the thinning crowds after January attest to the fallacy of this concept.

2. Bring It Home: More than 10 million Americans use elliptical trainers. An equal number prefer a reclining stationary bike. Both

machines reduce stress on joints while eliminating the aching-back syndrome.

Fortunately, a lot of people buy such equipment and then use them as expensive clothes hangers. That means you should never have to buy a new machine. Craigslist is just filled with ads for home exercise equipment and some dealers offer refurbished machines. The key is to give it a whirl before handing over your cash or you, too, might end up with a pricey coat rack.

If you don’t already have an MP3 player, this should be your second investment. Nothing impels you through a home workout like hot tunes or an hour-long podcast of “Car Talk.”

3. Stay Limber: Stress is not the only province of youth; nor is muscle elas-

ticity. Yoga helps soothe frayed nerves, improves flexibility and, not incidentally, provides a great aerobic workout.

Pilates has many of the same advantages, but without all that Nirvana stuff.

There are countless DVDs and CDs to lead you through these exercises at home, but it’s important to be selective. You want an instructor who gives detailed instructions, like “keep your stomach flat,” “push away from the floor,” etc.

4. Get Outside: Recumbent road bikes are fairly expensive, but you can always pick up a traditional bike for cheap at garage sales, thrift stores, FreeCycle.org or the inevitable Craigslist. If you have shoulder or back problems, invest in high-rise handlebars and have a professional adjust the bike to your body shape and size.

5. Walk It Off: It costs nothing to cruise the neighborhood, checking out houses for sale while listening to music that moves you. Walking regularly with

a friend is a great motivator and maintaining a conversation while keeping a steady pace allows you to monitor the amount of exercise you actually get.

An article in AARP reports overweight people who walk 30 minutes per day, five days per week, can reduce their risk of diabetes by nearly 60 percent.

6. Pump It Up: Even if you just add weights to your arms and legs when walking, you’ll increase your body strength while getting a good cardio workout.

7. Mix and Match: Performing just one form of exercise won’t ensure you stay fit. A full regimen combines strength, flexibility and balance training (the latter provided by yoga and Pilates). Mixing it up each day also keeps the doldrums away.

The author is a Baby Boomer consumer specialist for Kinoli Inc. She has written about senior issues for 11 years as a Cooperative Extension specialist and for a wide variety of newspapers and magazines.

Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 21

Veterans Corner

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Ex-POWs: Surviving the Unimaginable and Dealing With It

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just threw my watch in the “Ten-ten AM, trash. I got it as a gift a while Thursday, back—and it was something November 30th, else. It had four different 2011” digital displays, about a dozen buttons, was waterproof to about a thousand feet, and I think it could even tell me the weather. I’ll never know, though, because, like I said, it’s in the trash. Turns out it couldn’t do the one thing I want a watch to do … tell me the correct time. It always ran a little slow, which was bad enough, but there were so many displays and they were so small that I couldn’t easy-to-understand voice. So whether tell the time even if it was accurate. you’re driving to an appointment or When I tried to reset it, I pushed the dining in a candlelit restaurant … you wrong button and set it on military time, are sure to know the exact time. Press and I couldn’t figure out how to switch it the button again and it will even tell you back. That was the last straw. Now, I’ve the day and date if you want. There’s got a great watch. It’s super-accurate, even an automatic hourly chime. easy-to-read, and it will even tell … yes tell … me the time. Best of all, I’ll never Try it for yourself… it’s risk-free. have to set it! This is the watch I’ve The US Atomic Clock cost billions to been waiting for. build and maintain, but you can have the next best thing for less than one Whether you travel or not… this watch is hundred dollars. Thanks to a special a necessity. This Talking Atomic Watch arrangement with the manufacturer, from firstSTREET maintains its we can offer you this watch at a phenomenal accuracy because it is special price with our exclusive designed to receive a signal from home trial. If you are not completely the US Atomic Clock in Fort Collins, amazed by the accuracy and quality Colorado. This clock is the standard of this product, simply return it within for time measurement worldwide… it 90 days for a “No Questions Asked” can go 20 million years without gaining refund of the product purchase price. or losing a second! It never needs to Call now. be set, because it automatically adjusts itself for daylight savings time and leap years.

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Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 22

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The most accurate watch in the world is of no use if you can’t read it. This timepiece is designed to tell you the correct time… anytime. It features a clear, uncluttered analog display that you won’t need reading glasses to see.

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POWs He talked about POWs. “Two things dward Dement, 88, is Commander are foremost in the memories of of the Florida Gulf Coast ChapWWII POWs held in Europe: winter’s ter of the American Ex-POWs and cold and the lack of food. The POWs former National Director of were young, but the the group. It is an elite group ones who suffered who have survived the unmost were the men imaginable and lived to talk who had a wife and about it, if not to outsiders, child back home. then at least to each other.

I was assigned to DeMent’s easy smile and deliver mail and I articulate speech make it easy saw their agony.” to forget that, during WWII, Some ex-POWs he and five others parachuted don’t want to join, from a damaged B-24 (part DeMent said, of the 456th Bomb Group) because they don’t in April 1944. He weighed like groups, but he Edward DeMent and 160 pounds that day over feels that as you framed memories of Yugoslavia and remembers get older there’s his POW days. hearing a dog bark as he more locked in landed in a fir tree and fell to the your mind and sharing helps you deal ground, dislocating both kneecaps with it. Men often don’t talk about and suffering many other injuries. their experiences to non-members but The captured men were treated enjoy sharing with other ex-POWs. well for a time in a camp supplied A few years ago, the director of the with food rations by the Red Cross National Prisoner of War Museum and with books and athletic equip(at Andersonville, Georgia) asked ment by the YMCA. (The pilot told DeMent to help them find a way the men to bail out, thinking he to extend the impact of the POW would go down with the plane.)

Museum. DeMent has worked with When Russia closed in to liberate the museum in planning and developthe camp, the men were forced ing a new mobile museum called to leave in twenty below zero “Victory from Within: The American weather, marching toward Stalag Prisoner of War Museum.”

Luft III outside of Munich. When DeMent will be honored later this that camp was liberated by General year at the unveiling of the 1,200 Patton himself on April 29, 1945, square foot traveling exhibit which DeMent weighed only 110 pounds. will introduce the public to the He went back to Chicago, married, prisoner of war story through worked and raised a family. Like present-day experiences. most POWs, Dement experienced Edward DeMent and others who flashbacks. A picture on the wall survived the unimaginable will of his Temple Terrace, Florida, then have a part of their story told apartment shows the crew of nine more widely. Other parts of their who flew over Yugoslavia on the story they talk about only among fateful day in 1944. Dement is the others who, like them, survived. only one still living. Also on the Other Ex POW chapters meet in wall are his Silver Star, three Purple Spring Hill, Port Charlotte, Sarasota Hearts, two Presidential Citations, and Dunnellon. For information, call four Battle Stars and much more.

Edward DeMent at (813) 985-3783.

BY JANICE DOYLE

E

St. Petersburg Museum of Fine Art Celebrates Human Creativity

BY JANICE DOYLE

E

ven if you’ve never before been held spellbound by a study of ancient Egypt, the current special exhibition at the Museum of Fine Arts in St. Petersburg is likely to do just that.

“Ancient Egypt – Art and Magic: Treasures from the Fondation Gandur pour l’Art” is at the museum until April 29.

The private collection—here in its world premiere—tells the story of how the elite of a society prepared for their journey into the afterlife.

Art pieces on exhibit provide insights to the key ideas of Egyptian civilization: the materials (stone, alabaster, papyrus, wood), colors (from natural sources and preserved by the dry Egyptian climate for thousands of years) and writing. Much of the art of the culture portrayed in various ways the magical powers of regeneration around them. The color black, for example, represents fertility because black was the

color of the silt deposited in the Nile Valley during annual floods which regenerated the desert soil for crops.

The exhibit’s first gallery traces the 14 periods of Egyptian history over 4,000 years. One gallery shows impressive stone and alabaster vessels. Another room contains a collection of shabtis, small figures placed in a tomb to do the ritual work in the deceased’s afterlife. There’s a granite statue of Rameses the Great and, in the last gallery, two notable sarcophagus lids.

Museum Director Kent Lydecker said the exhibition contains 101 objects, all telling stories and “. . . each story is more fascinating than the one before.”

Of the Museum of Fine Arts, Lydecker said, “I’m enormously proud of this museum. Nobody does it better (than this staff). We offer quality, excellence and engagement.”

He described the museum as “encyclopedic,” meaning that it has a comprehensive art collection which “celebrates human creativity of all times and all places throughout history.”

Ideally located one block from Hillsborough Bay in beautiful South Tampa, Bayshore Presbyterian Apartments offers quality affordable housing for seniors by providing a wide variety of activities and outstanding amenities in an active setting. If you are looking into ways to enjoy the very best in senior living, be sure to schedule a personal visit. Come see for yourself what makes Bayshore Presbyterian Apartments a wonderful place to live.

Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 24

On a museum tour, Lydecker pointed out that as visitors move from room to room, they also move from one part of the world to another through art: India, China and Japan, Greek theater, America, Europe. One unique piece I found was a Medieval ivory piece. A lovely little collection of photography puts the old photos we have as family into perspective as art. On the second floor, nineteenth century photographs of Egypt from the museum’s collection capture the land of the pyramids before tourism.

“Give yourself permission to slow down,” Lydecker suggested, as a way to really appreciate the true treasures which make up the St. Petersburg Museum of Fine Arts. Good advice.

And you won’t be sorry you did.

Through April 29: “Ancient Egypt: Art and Magic” special exhibition.

Open Monday – Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Info at (727) 896-2667 or online at fine-arts.org.

Bayshore Presbyterian Apartments — A Community of Friends

Celebrates 43 Years...

• One bedroom & studio apartments • Utilities included • On-site maintenance & management office • 24 hour staff coverage • Beautiful outdoor courtyard • Social Services Coordinator • Spacious common areas • County Lunch Program • Active Residents’ Association, planned activities & special events • Coin operated laundry room • On-site beauty salon, library & T.V. lounge

Lydecker came to the museum a year ago as director, he said, in part because of its extensive collection. He also complimented the vision of the museum’s founders who emphasized having an education component which serves the area well. (All school children who visit with their classes leave with a family pass, for example.)

• Free County transportation to grocery • Easy access to public transportation • Fire sprinkler system • Bathroom emergency call button • Persons of all faiths welcome

For more information, call 813-839-3381 or TDD 800-955-8771 Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 4 p.m., except holidays.

2909 Barcelona Street Tampa, Florida 33629 seniorhousing@tampabay.rr.com

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elcome to Bayshore Presbyterian Apartments, a senior housing community located one block from Hillsborough Bay in beautiful South Tampa.

As you sit leisurely on our shady front porch you will surely notice the lovely azaleas in full bloom during the spring.

Come inside and you will be greeted by one of our 24-hour staff members. At Bayshore Presbyterian Apartments, we see you as more than a tenant. We see you as a resident, as a part of our community and our lives.

The minute you move here, you will be immediately absorbed into the community. Many of our residents tell us that the main reason they chose to live here was because of our outstanding amenities and fun-filled activities. Our residents are the key to our success for the past 43 years. Residents have many choices when it comes to finding the

right place to call home. We know how important it is to provide affordable apartments, a friendly and professional management staff and a place where people feel comfortable and part of a community of friends.

We are proud of our great community and committed to providing quality housing and services based on the highest standards of excellence. We believe that our values and superior standards define who we are and set us apart from everyone else.

Come and see for yourself what makes Bayshore Presbyterian Apartments a wonderful place to live. As soon as you step foot in the door, you will see that this is where you belong.

For more information, please call (813) 839-3381 (TDD 800-955-8771) Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m., except holidays.

Y ’all Come. Let’s Go to Callaway Gardens!

New at the Gardens is an adventurous two hours on the TreeTop Adventure.

All four of us are in the very late 60s to mid-70s age range, but there we were lined up in helmets and safety harnesses letting guides get us started on the obstacle ropes and zip line course for all ages. The brochure says you can “leap, swing and whiz” your way through it. We didn’t do any of those specifically, but we took it one challenge at a time, cheered each other on, laughed a lot at ourselves and enjoyed the whole thing immensely.

BY JANICE DOYLE

“Y

’all come.” The words are the Song of the South. It might be an invitation to experience places with a long history, beautiful flowers, long walks on wooded paths and charming cottages amidst pines and azaleas. So, y’all come and meet us at Callaway Gardens!

Travel If you have friends you’d like to relax with—or if you want to just stop on your way to somewhere else—there’s no place like Callaway Gardens. Any time of year is a good time to be there, but the Gardens are especially wonderful in the spring as the azaleas bloom. It’s time to go!

Located on I-85 southwest of Atlanta, it’s a day’s drive from west Florida to Callaway Gardens. My husband and I joined our good friends there. We stayed in one of the two-bedroom, two-bath cottages nestled into the woods, brought our own food, and everywhere we looked for two days, the woods were full of azalea bushes. An inn and villas are also available for lodging, and you’ll find several restaurants on the grounds.

Cabins at Callaway

Year-round fun Every season provides a great reason to visit Callaway Gardens! Beyond ongoing superb golf and tennis possibilities, there’s a full schedule of things to do. Don’t think it’s all about spring azaleas, by any means.

Robin Lake Beach turns into the center of activity for family activities and festivals. There’s a hot air balloon festival for Labor Day, a Spangled Beach Party for the 4th of July, a Fall Festival and, during the Christmas season, Fantasy in Lights has become an annual tradition for many people.

Winter at the Gardens (January through March) finds programs which connect people socially—think of staying in a cozy cottage with a fireplace by night and enjoying social activities like bridge or tennis by day. Maybe you’d like a class or a Mystery Dinner Weekend. The calendar is packed with possibilities, and many special rates are available throughout the winter.

FDR’s “Little White House”

A don’t-miss side trip Warm Springs, a hidden jewel in central Georgia, is a 15-minute drive from Callaway. Franklin Roosevelt’s Little White House is there. It is where he came to soak in the springs.

You’ll enjoy the history and learn how the Georgia mountain people affected his presidential decisions.

Warm Springs Village is lined with quaint streets and 100-year-old restored buildings—just lovely.

For more information, call 1-800-CALLAWAY (225-5292) or visit callawaygardens.com.

What’s at Callaway Gardens?

You’ll find floral beauty in the 40-acres of azaleas and other garden delights as you drive the roads or hike the trails through the property. Better yet, pick up a bike and follow the 10-mile paved trail that winds through the woods, with stops at all the major attractions.

At the John A Sibley Horticultural Center, it’s easy to spend an hour or more wandering through the five acres of gardens: a tropical rain forest, a Mediterranean garden, a desert plot and much more. We loved the sculptures and the indoor waterfall.

Landscape Photography – Azaleas: March 31 – April 1: $115.

The Gardens include the Virginia Close-up and Macro Photography – Butterfly: April 21 – 22: $115 Hand Callaway Discovery Center, a lovely building full of Herbaceous Plant Propagation: March 10 or March 17: $75 displays and informaPlant Fair and Sale: March 22 – 25, tion. A Backyard Callaway Gardening School: March 22 – 23, Fees vary.

Wildlife Habitat and Vegetable Gardening A to Z: March 30: $55 Birds of Prey program interest the critter Planting your Season Vegetable Garden: April 21: $45 crew in a group.

Spring Watercolor Painting: April 21 – 22: $225 More than 1000 Special 3-Day Plein Air Painting: April 23 – 25: $395 The Butterfly Center butterflies live in Pine Needle Basket Making: April 28: $65 the Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center. After spotting Gemstones & Freshwater Pearls Jewelry Design and Making: May 5: $115 four or five, we slowed our steps Workshop fees include admission to Callaway Gardens. To register, and looked more closely to find the call 1-800-225-5292 or email education@callawaygardens.com. hidden beauties among the plants.

Spring Workshops and Classes at Callaway Gardens

Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 25

Automobile Accidents

We provide prompt, aggressive representation for victims of automobile accidents.

Temple Terrace Senior Expo

E

njoy a free day of live entertainment, bingo, door prizes, free health screenings and more at the Temple Terrace Senior Expo, Friday, March 16 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Temple Terrace Family Recreation Complex, 6610 Whiteway Drive, Temple Terrace.

Over 40 senior citizen focused agencies and businesses will be available to answer your

Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 26

questions at this free event!

Glucose and blood pressure screenings will be available for free, and a free “to go” lunch will be provided by Hillsborough County Aging Services. For early risers, a free continental breakfast will also be provided by BJ’s wholesale club at 8 a.m., while supplies last!

For more information, please call (813) 506-6600.

Do Your Research Before Buying Financial Products A

bulletin from the FDIC (Federal Deposit Insurance Co.) tells consumers to always, always, always do research before purchasing “variable life insurance” or a “variable annuity.” Both products are part insurance and part securities.

The first is a type of “whole life” insurance product (also called “permanent life” insurance) for which the policyholder’s cash value is invested in one or more portfolios of securities.

The second product is an annuity, for which the consumer invests through the insurer in a variety of investment options, typically mutual funds.

Insurance companies issue both products, and anyone who sells them must be registered under state insurance laws and state and federal securities laws.

Finance

Things to think about “Before you invest in a variable life insurance or variable annuity product, be sure that you fully understand how the product works, the risk of loss and the applicable fees and surrender charges,” said Victoria Pawelski, an FDIC Policy Analyst.

“Carefully evaluate whether the product is suitable for you given your investment objectives and time frame.

And beware of high-pressure sales tactics from sales representatives who may have an incentive to generate high commissions and fees.”

What to watch for Although these products provide taxdeferred earnings, you can lose money investing in them. Income and value can move up and down. That’s what the “variable” in the name means.

These products also may carry relatively high sales commissions, fees and “surrender charges” if you withdraw money early, typically within the first five to eight years after purchasing the product but sometimes after a longer period.

So, think of variable annuities as long-term investments that can tie up your money for many years.

The older you are, the less likely a variable annuity is suitable for you.

Of special concern is that securities and insurance regulators have reported an increase in unsuitable sales of variable products to older investors, who experts say should generally stick to low-risk, low- or no-fee financial products instead of those with potentially high risks and fees.

For more help For more information about insurance and annuities, the National Association of Insurance Commissioners has a website (insureuonline.org) that includes a special alert for seniors on annuities. The NAIC also provides information on how to contact your state insurance regulator to verify that a company and an individual agent are licensed to sell in your state.

For additional guidance about variable annuities and what to consider before buying, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission has published investor tips at sec.gov/investor/pubs/varannty.htm.

Also consider going to the website of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (finra.org), the largest nongovernmental regulator of securities firms operating in the United States.

It publishes investor alerts and provides background and disciplinary information about securities firms and brokers that sell these products.

DCSD

Debt Counsel for Seniors & the Disabled Representing Seniors And The Disabled Who Are Living On Social Security, Disability, Pensions Or Federal Benefits And Who Can No Longer Pay Their Credit Card Debt In The Following Practice Areas: • Debt collection abuse • Harassing phone calls • Threats of arrest • Unlawful garnishment of federally protected funds

800-992-3275 ext. 1304 Attorney James S. Giardina Offices: Tampa, FL

Free Tax Preparation Assistance M ore than 12,000 free tax preparation sites are open nationwide this year. The IRS sponsors both the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and the Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs.

The VITA program offers free tax help to people who earn less than $50,000. Most locations offer free electronic filing. The TCE program offers free tax help to people who are age 60 or older.

As part of the TCE program, AARP operates the Tax-Aide free tax preparation program during the filing season.

Trained and certified AARP Tax-Aide volunteers help taxpayers with low-to-moderate income, with special attention paid to those 60 and older.

Local VITA site information is available through a new online tool on the IRS Website: www.irs.gov. Taxpayers can search the word “VITA” in IRS. gov and click on the option “Free Tax Return Preparation For You by Volunteers,” followed by ”Find a

United Community Church, Sun City Center: (813) 634-3502 (Mon. – Fri. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.)

Ruskin Family Center (813) 633-5679 (Sat. 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.)

Jimmie Keel Library (Thu. and Fri. noon – 4 p.m.)

Bloomingdale Library (Tue. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.; Thu. noon – 4 p.m.)

VITA site near you” to access the tool.

Site information is also available by calling the IRS toll-free number: 1-800-906-9887.

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide offers free help for older taxpayers and people with limited incomes. Go to the site listed during the following times to schedule an appointment unless a phone number is given. Do not call a public library to make an appointment.

For addresses, please visit aarp.org/applications/VMIS Locator/taxAideLocations.action.

American Legion Post 152, 11211 Sheldon Rd. (Mon. 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.)

Platt Library (Tue. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.)

West Tampa Library (Mon. 1 – 5 p.m.)

Tampa Workforce Center, 9215 N. Florida Ave. (Wed., Thu., Fri. 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.)

Seffner-Mango Library (Mon. and Fri. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.)

78th St. Library (813) 494-2610 (Wed 1 p.m. – 6 p.m; Fri. 3:30 – 6 p.m.)

Naming Minor as a Beneficiary of Life Insurance a Mistake

BY WILLIAM R. MUMBAUER, Attorney

www.flwillstrustsprobate.com

A

reader asks: My recently divorced son has been advised by his life insurance agent to remove his former wife as beneficiary of his life insurance policy and make the former couple’s daughter the primary beneficiary. I am concerned that this is not the right thing to do since my son’s daughter, my granddaughter, is only 8 years old. What do you think?

The Law And You Answer: While I agree that your son should remove his former wife as beneficiary as soon as possible, he may be making a serious mistake by naming his minor daughter as primary beneficiary of his life insurance policy. Should your son die before his daughter attains adulthood, which is 18 in most states, including Florida, the establishment of a court-supervised Guardianship over the life insurance proceeds would be necessary. A Guardianship is expensive to set up and costly to administer while your granddaughter awaits adulthood

and, more likely than not, the court would select your granddaughter’s mother, your son’s former wife, to control the Guardianship money. Additionally, should your granddaughter die before age 18, all money in the Guardianship account would be inherited by her next-of-kin, which is, of course, her mother.

A better approach would be for your son to name his estate as beneficiary of his life insurance policy and the proceeds would be distributed under his will, which would have the proceeds flow into a testamentary trust for the benefit of your granddaughter. The benefits of this are that the testamentary trust could be written in such a way that your granddaughter doesn’t have to receive all of the money at age 18, as the testamentary trust could direct that she receive the money held in the trust when she attains a more mature age. Finally, the testamentary trust could name a person or persons other than the child’s mother to receive remaining funds should your granddaughter not live long enough to receive all of the money.

The downside of your son naming his estate as beneficiary of his life insurance policy is that the proceeds must go

through probate, and the cost of your son’s probate will be more expensive as attorney fees in probate are usually based on a percentage of the estate. Finally, it exposes the life insurance proceeds to the claims of your son’s creditors.

The best approach would be for your son to set up a revocable living trust. This has all of the benefits of a testamentary trust but without the delays and expense associated with probate.

Mr. Mumbauer, a fifth generation Floridian, has maintained a law practice in Brandon, Florida since 1980 with emphasis on estate planning. He takes special pride in representing the senior community by maintaining a sensitive and practical approach to problem solving.

He is a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, the Elder Law Section of the Florida Bar and is a participating attorney in the AARP Legal Services Network.

He is also a Mentor in probate law and has been qualified by the Second District Court of Appeal in Florida as an expert witness in matters involving the drafting of wills.

Mr. Mumbauer’s Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review Rating for Legal Ability is High to Very High and his General Recommendation Rating is Very High. His articles are based on general principles of law and are not intended to apply to individual circumstances.

Don’t put off estate planning any longer. Call

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• Free, no obligation consultation.

• Single will $150 • Husband and wife wills $200 Costs, if any, extra The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. Before you decide, ask the lawyer to send you free written information about his qualifications and experience.

Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 27

Expert? What Makes an Expert?

HOME LIGHTINGBreakthrough

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he following are quotes by those considered “experts” in their fields at one time:

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The Balanced Spectrum floor lamp brings many of the benefits of natural daylight indoors for glare-free lighting that’s perfect for reading. ®

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tudies show that sunshine can both lift your mood and enhance your energy levels. But as we all know, the sun does not always shine. Now, however, there’s a solution to the problem– The Balanced Spectrum® floor lamp will change not only the way you see, but also the way you feel about your living and work spaces.

It brings the benefits of natural daylight indoors, simulating the full spectrum of daylight.

Experience sunshine indoors at the touch of a switch. This amazing lamp is not only easy on the eyes, it is easy on the hands as well, featuring a special “soft-touch, flicker-free” rocker switch that is easier to use than traditional toggle or twist switches. And its flexible gooseneck design enables you to get light exactly where you need it. The hightech electronics, the user-friendly design, and a bulb that lasts 10 times Technology revolutionizes the light bulb • Save almost $61 over the life of the bulb • 8,000 hours bulb life • Energy efficient • Shows true colors

longer than an ordinary bulb–all these features make the Balanced Spectrum® floor lamp a must-have.

Try the Balanced Spectrum® floor lamp for the best value ever! Now more than ever is the time to spread Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 28

“This ‘telephone’ has too many shortcomings to be seriously considered as a means of communication. The device is inherently of no value to us.” ~ Western Union internal memo, 1876.

“Everything that can be invented has been invented.” ~ Charles H. Duell, Commissioner, U.S. Office of Patents, 1899.

Humor sunshine all over the room in your home at this fantastic low price!

The Balanced Spectrum® floor lamp comes with firstSTREET’s exclusive guarantee. Try this lamp for 90 days and return it for the product purchase price if not completely satisfied.

Balanced Spectrum® floor lamp . . . . . . . . . . . was $59.95 Call now for $10 instant savings!

Only $49.95 each + S&H *Order two Balanced Spectrum® floor lamps and get FREE shipping on both lamps. *Free shipping within the contiguous 48 states only.

Please mention promotional code 44043.

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1-877-499-6576

We accept all major credit cards, or if you choose, you can pay by check over the phone.

To order by mail, please call for details.

www.balancedspectrum.com

Copyright © 2009 by firstSTREET for Boomers and Beyond, Inc. All rights reserved.

41479

The Balanced Spectrum’s 27-watt compact bulb is brighter than a 100-watt ordinary light bulb. With the lamp’s sharp visibility, you will see with more clarity and enjoyment in close tasks such as reading, writing, sewing, and needlepoint. It is especially helpful for aging eyes.

“Drill for oil? You mean drill into the ground to try and find oil? You’re crazy.” ~ Drillers who Edwin L. Drake tried to enlist to his project to drill for oil in 1859.

“Airplanes are interesting toys but of no military value.” ~ Marechal Ferdinand Foch, Professor of Strategy, Ecole Superieure de Guerre, France.

“The wireless music box has no imaginable commercial value. Who would pay for a message sent to nobody in particular?” ~ David Sarnoff’s associates in response to his urgings for investment in the radio in the 1920s.

“There is no likelihood man can ever tap the power of the atom.” ~ Robert Millikan, Nobel Prize in Physics, 1923.

“Stocks have reached what looks like a permanently high plateau.” ~ Irving Fisher, Professor of Economics, Yale University, 1929.

“The bomb will never go off. I speak as an expert in explosives.” ~ Admiral William Leahy, U.S. Atomic Bomb Project.

“I think there is a world market for maybe five computers.” ~Thomas Watson, chairman of IBM, 1943.

“The super computer is technologically impossible. It would take all of the water that flows over Niagara Falls to cool the heat generated by the number of vacuum tubes required.” ~ Professor of Electrical Engineering, New York University.

“Computers in the future may weigh no more than 1.5 tons.” ~ Popular Mechanics, forecasting the relentless march of science, 1949.

“We don’t like their sound, and guitar music is on the way out.” ~ Decca Recording Co. rejecting the “Beatles,” 1962.

“I don’t know what use any one could find for a machine that would make copies of documents.

It certainly couldn’t be a feasible business by itself.” ~ The head of IBM, refusing to back the idea, forcing the inventor to found Xerox.

“But what is it good for?” ~ Engineer at the Advanced Computing Systems Division of IBM, 1968, commenting on the microchip.

“There is no reason anyone would want a computer in their home.” ~ Ken Olson, president, chairman and founder of Digital Equipment Corp., 1977.

“640K ought to be enough for anybody.” ~ Bill Gates, 1981.

“A cookie store is a bad idea. Besides, the market research reports say America likes crispy cookies, not soft “Man will never reach the moon regard- and chewy cookies like you make.” less of all future scientific advances.” ~ Response to Debbi Fields’ idea ~ Dr. Lee DeForest, Father of Radio of starting Mrs. Fields’ Cookies. and Grandfather of Television.

“If I had thought about it, I wouldn’t “I’m just glad it’ll be Clark Gable have done the experiment. The who’s falling on his face and not literature was full of examples that said Gary Cooper.” ~ Gary Cooper on you can’t do this,” ~ Spencer Silver his decision not to take the leading on the work that led to the unique role in “Gone With The Wind.” adhesives for 3-M Post-It Notepads.

Canine Alopecia—Causes and Symptoms

BY SARAH A. (BALAGUER) SANTIAGO, DVM, MS

A

lopecia, or hair loss, is a common problem many dogs experience for a multitude of reasons.

Certain breeds may be predisposed to specific patterns of hair loss. For example, Boxers are commonly afflicted with seasonal flank alopecia in which the sides of their abdomen have temporary hair loss with skin discoloration. One gender may be more susceptible to alopecia over the other. Male dogs that develop a testicular cancer called a Sertoli cell tumor can have hair loss on their torso until the cancerous testicle is removed.

Caring For Your Pet Age can play an important role in diagnosing the underlying cause for hair loss. Dermatophytosis, or a ringworm infection, can be a

cause of alopecia in a young dog.

Demodicosis, or the non-contagious form of mange, is another common skin parasite that can lead to hair loss in young dogs due to the presence of mites in oil and sweat glands and hair follicles of the skin. Classic patterns of alopecia are often seen in middle aged to older pets when the hair loss is secondary to certain endocrine diseases. Dogs with hypothyroidism often present with hairless tails and no other clinical signs. Another endocrine

disease known as Cushing’s or Hyperadrenocorticism often leads to symmetrical truncal alopecia.

Allergies are also a common cause of alopecia in dogs. If the areas of alopecia are associated with skin redness, scabs and/or bumps, the hair loss may be secondary to self trauma.

Pets that suffer from various forms of allergies often chew, lick or rub their skin excessively for itch relief. Flea allergic pets oftentimes present with a mohawk of fur along their lower backside, or with severely salivary stained rump fur from their excessive grooming. Paws may experience hair loss and salivary staining as well due to environmental or food allergies.

Thus, as described above, a vast array of medical conditions can lead to alopecia in dogs. If your pet is currently experiencing a form of hair loss, your family veterinarian is the most reliable source of information to help you and your not-so-furry loved one get back to normal.

10931 Boyette Road, Riverview

671-3400

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• Blood Analysis • Xrays • Behavioral Consultation • Lab Work • Boarding & Grooming Facilities • Reptiles & Birds welcome too!

Office Hours By Appointment Mon. – Thurs. 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Fri. 7 – 6:30 p.m.

Sat. 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

March 2012 Fishing Forecast

I

of March. Look for these n March we usually begin fish in deeper water off to see snook move out the flats. The schools will of the rivers and into their be easy to spot with these springtime spots, but this 30-lb.-plus fish swimyear is far from typical. With ming near the top of the the warm weather of Januwater column. Try using ary and February, the snook a 3/8 oz. jig head with a migration to their spring (L) Capt. Danny Guarino Burkley gulp shrimp. and summer spawn is in Look for the big bait full gear, albeit in smaller pods to arrive this month with schools numbers due primarily to the cold of mackerel not too far behind. In fact, winter of 2010. Catch reports of snook a few reports of Spanish mackerel being have been encouraging this past fall caught at the mouth of Tampa Bay have but nowhere near the levels of 2009. been popping up since mid-February.

Redfish and trout should be up on Capt Danny Guarino is a lifelong resithe flats and I do expect the bite of dent of the Tampa area and full-time fishbig trout to be off the wall. Look for ing guide on Tampa Bay. (813) 956-2010. grass beds in the three-foot ranges.

The Southshore flats should also hold Sign up for the SouthShore Professional a few schools of redfish if we keep Fishing Tournament, hosted by The Resort the boat traffic off the grass and on and Club at Little Harbor, 611 Destiny the outside of the sandbar on the Drive, Ruskin, to benefit charities serving eastern side of Tampa Bay. Shrimp the children of the SouthShore Communior scaled sardines will be the bait of ties. May 10 – Children’s Tournament, choice for these springtime favorites.

3 – 5 p.m, banquet at 6 p.m. Professional Schools of big black drum should tournament: May 12, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Info: make an appearance by the beginning southshoreprofish.com. (813) 645-3732.

Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 29

All New Senior Fun Fest Comes to the Coliseum!

Presents...

Enter Now!

Nothing Captures the love of a grandparent for a grandchild more than a great photo!

Could Your Grandchild’s Photo be a Winner?

Selected photos will be published in upcoming issues of Senior Connection magazine.

Photos will be on display at the Senior Fun Fest, March 27, 2012 at the St. Petersburg Coliseum, 535 Fourth Ave. North, St. Petersburg, Florida 33701 X 1st Place Winner $75 X 2nd Place Winner $50 X 3rd Place - Tickets to the Clearwater Aquarium X Grand Prize Winner Two Tickets to Busch Gardens

RULES:

Photos can be: 3” x 5” up to maximum size 8 1/2” x 11”, printed on photo paper only. Maximum 3 entries per person.

NO professional photos. Please no photos by e-mail.

Please enclose this form with your entry. (make sure to sign the bottom) Mail to: News Connection USA, P.O. Box 638, Seffner, FL 33583-0638

Health Screenings Free health screenings will include hearing and vision screenings, spinal checks, glucose, blood pressure and bone density checks, and other important health screenings.

Grandparent Name Address City Phone

State

Entertainment Enjoy live performances on stage throughout the day. Celebrate the ‘60s with Richie Merritt of The Marcels, William “Duece” Hulett—the “Best in Country Entertainment” as well as Denise Looney, “The DJ with a Twist!” Don’t miss Bill Castner, “King of Dance,” and Luis of A1-Magic with his amazing balloon art. Of course, Fritzy the “One Man Circus” will be there, along with many more entertainers!

Zip

E-mail

Photo Title Sender’s Age(s)

Subject’s Age(s)

Subject’s Name Photo release signature Entries must be received by Mar. 20, 2012 to be entered in the Photo Contest. (Send your photos in early so we can share them with our readers). Photos will be returned within 45 days after contest ends, if you include a self-addressed stamped envelope (large enough to fit your photo) and name and address on the back of the photo.

Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 30

H

ey Seniors! Join us for the annual Senior Fun Fest! at the St. Petersburg Coliseum, March 27, 2012, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Historic Coliseum is located at 535 Fourth Avenue North, St Petersburg.

This event features “Senior Friendly” exhibitors with information on senior services, lifestyles, health and wellness, travel and more. A Senior Friendly lunch of a hot dog, chips and soda will be available along with other menu items. Free coffee and goodies will be offered throughout the day.

SPC

Games and Prizes Activities of the day include free Bingo games and the Senior Friendly Sports Area. Try your sports skills to win prizes!

Thousands of dollars in prizes will be given away throughout the day, including tickets to Busch Gardens and the Florida Orchestra.

The Grand Prize drawing at the end of the day will be a two-night stay at the Beau Rivage Resort and Casino in Biloxi, including round trip airline tickets compliments of the St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport.

Honor our Veterans At 1:30 p.m. we will hold the most important highlight of the day. Help us show our gratitude to our esteemed military veterans for their service.

Veterans Funeral Care and Suncoast Hospice will present a special pinning ceremony. We encourage everyone to join us and witness this ceremony, which will include the following: • An Honor Guard to call appointed veterans to the stage • Speech by a military veteran • Presentation by an active-duty officer • Gift of an antique 48-star flag to the oldest veteran on stage • National anthem “Grandkids are the Greatest” Again this year we present the “Grandkids are the Greatest” Photo Contest. The photos will be on display throughout the day.

Winners will be announced at 2 p.m.

The entry deadline is March 20.

Easter Egg Hunt Since Easter is late this year we decided to have our Easter Egg Hunt early. Official Senior Connection Easter Eggs will be hidden in the Coliseum throughout the day. Find one and win a prize!

Admission and parking are free.

For more info, call (813) 653-1988, or for directions, call (727) 892-5202.

Visit our website: seniorconnectionfl.com.

See you there!

Senior Idol Show

April 4, 2012 - 7:00 p.m.

Ruth Eckerd Hall 1111 McMullen Booth Road • Clearwater, FL 33759

For Information call: Pinellas: 727-329-2618 – Susan Juhl and Nicole Woodring Hillsborough: 813-436-2296 – Andrea White and Chrissy Crumpton Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 31

FREE INFORMATION SERVICE Senior Connection & Mature Lifestyles for information please return completed form to:

News Connection USA, Inc. • P.O. Box 278 • Laurel FL 34272-0278

Name: Address: City:

State:

Phone:

Age:

Zip: Date:

E-mail: ❏ Single ❏ Married ❏ Are you a Group Leader?

Please contact me by: ❏ Mail ❏ Phone ❏ E-mail Counties of interest: ❏ Lee ❏ Charlotte ❏ Collier ❏ Hillsborough ❏ Pinellas ❏ Pasco ❏ Lake ❏ Marion ❏ Sarasota ❏ Manatee SEND INFORMATION ON AREAS(S) CHECKED BELOW AUTOMOBILES: TRAVEL: ❏ Automobile Sales ❏ Cruises ❏ Land Tours ❏ Maintenance and Repairs ❏ Hotels/ Resorts ❏ Recreational Vehicles ❏ Local Attractions ❏ Getaway Packages RESIDENTIAL LIVING: ❏ Mfd/FactoryBuilt Homes HOUSING OPTIONS ❏ RV Resort ❏ Independent ❏ Apartments ❏ Assisted Living ❏ Villa/Condo/Single Family ❏ Senior Apartment ❏ Golf Community ❏ Continuing Care/LifeCare PERSONAL HEALTH: FINANCIAL/ LAW: ❏ Physicians ❏ Reverse Mortgages ❏ Dentists ❏ Retirement planning ❏ Eye Care ❏ Trusts ❏ Alternative Health ❏ Estate planning ❏ Weight Loss ❏ Guardianships ❏ Supplements ❏ Elder Law ❏ Home Health LEISURE TIME: ❏ Prescription Drugs ❏ Golf ❏ Hearing ❏ Gambling ❏ Spas/Gym ❏ Boating ❏ Medical Supplies ❏ Theater INSURANCE: ❏ Dining In/Out Art O’Connor ❏ Medicare HOME IMPROVEMENTS: Won a $25 Gift ❏ Health ❏ Sunrooms Certificate to ❏ Long-term care ❏ Pools/spas Home Depot! ❏ Auto ❏ Contractor ❏ Life ❏ Home Modifications ❏ Home OTHER: All entries will be collected by News Connection U.S.A. for future promotions, special offers, and marketing.

Win a $25 Gift Certificate to Home Depot!

When you complete this form and mail it back, your name will be entered to win a $25 gift certficate to Home Depot.

(Drawing held the 20th of each month.) SC/HILLS

Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 32

The Useful Art of Table Insurance Discounts and Partner Selection For Mature Drivers

BY MARK PILARSKI

D

ear Mark: I am a relatively new/ occasional blackjack player and once in a while a hand comes up that advanced players would double-down on. However, being a low-roller, I do not really want to put more money out. On two different occasions, a player (usually a man) placed his own money alongside mine since he said it is a good bet. If the hand is a winner, should the winnings be shared, or is it mine to keep? —Mary P.

solution. Next time, you can ask, “do go want to partner up with me on this one?” instead of offering carte blanche to both the opportunity and winnings.

Since your “partnership” occurred but twice, I believe sharing the winnings is the appropriate resolution.

You would be making a big mistake in letting any player cherry-pick your double down opportunities, like an 11 against a six, plus, there are scenarios where you would want to take an additional hit(s) if you decide not to double down. For instance, you are dealt a 10, and the dealer is showing a 7, 8, 9, 10, or an ace. You hit, draw a three, giving you a 13.

Basic strategy would dictate that you take another hit. You can’t, because you just allowed some gentleman to control play and reap all the profits.

If you cannot take full advantage of double down opportunities, Mary, perhaps you should be playing on a lower denomination table.

Have a Florida’s Driver’s License and are 55 years of age or older?

Take Your Class Online!

• Study at your leisure, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Dear Mark: I am a snowbird • Simply read the course materials online and then answer spending the winter in Biloxi.

In Theafellow playerquestions. who offered few quiz one of your articles you advised the unsolicited playing advice, and in best cards to hold a 9/6to machine.

• There is no need to attend boring classes or on listen your case, ready cash, was correct in Maybe I am not going to the right long lectures. that doubling down is a good bet. casinos, but all I have seen here are • After of course weeither will8/6 issue a state-certifi ed When dealtcompletion, a pair of favorable or 7/5.

—Snowbird Bob cards,certifi normally a 9, 10, or an 11, the cate for you to turn into your insurance company to With a craving for some seafood casino gives you the opportunity to receive your discount for a three yearMahoney’s, period. I, too, hope at Mary double the amount of your wager.

to mosey on down to the Gulf The strategic reason for doubling Coast sometime this winter.

In the Take Your Mature Driver Course On The Internet! down is that you are more likely to meantime, Bob, a good reference as win the hand than to lose, and having If you have a Florida Driver’s License and are 55 years of to machine selection here, there, or this advantage, you should always agethe ormaximum older, you are now to complete anywhere is Steve motor Bourie’svehicle American wager amount pos- eligible Casino Guide.

According to thea sible.

The only disadvantage to accident prevention course that will allow you to receive 2012 guide, some of the best video doubling is that you are allowed mandatory reduction on your insurance rate for three years. poker games on the Gulf Coast for to draw just one additional card. lower limit players Option B is that if you happen to Florida Department of Highway Safetyare 9/6 Double Double Bonus (98.98%), 9/6 Jacks or be light in the pocketbook, yes, you & Motor Vehicle Approved Course may double for less than your original Better (99.54%) and 8/5 Bonus Poker (99.17%) and a version of Deuces bet. When the rules permit doubling, Wild called Illinois Deuces (98.9%). you may double your wager by any The tiger hunt is now on you to amount up to, but never more than, locate and scrutinize each paytable the original bet. Since doubling down and find which ones give you the has a built-in edge over the house, I lowest house edge. You’re on the do not recommend doubling for less. chase, Bob, so readers here are expectTeaming up with a player when half ing a full accounting. (SENIOR WIRE) of your double is open is a possible

To Register go to:

www.seniordriverclass.com

or call 1-800-771-2255

Social Media Explained

BY YVONNE CURLEY

I

t’s hard to keep up with new technology since today’s technological world requires conveying a message in several styles and methods, depending on which social media you’re using. Let me try to explain.

We’ll start with something we understand: an old fashioned, handwritten (in perfect cursive penmanship!) touristy postcard to Aunt Suzy.

Dear Aunt Suzy, I’m back in Iowa visiting the old hometown. Since Mom died, the house here has sold and the new owners have painted it a horrible blue color. A few changes in town – Main St. Donut Shop is long gone. I’m sitting in a Dunkin’ Donuts next to the super WalMart north of town on the new bypass. See you in June. —Love, Betty

Here’s the way that it’s done in social media: Twitter: I’m eating a donut.

Facebook: I like donuts.

Foursquare: This is where I eat donuts.

Instagram: This is a vintage photo of where I eat donuts.

YouTube: Here I am eating a donut.

LinkedIn: My skills include eating donuts.

Pinterest: Here’s a donut recipe.

Last FM: Listening to “Donuts.”

G+: I’m a Google employee who eats donuts.

Whew! Now the world knows!

Word Search Mar. 2012

In the grid below, twenty answers can be found that fit the category for today. Circle each answer that you find and list it in the space provided at the right of the grid. Answers can be found in all directions – forwards, backwards, horizontally, vertically and diagonally. An example is given to get you started. Can you find the twenty answers in this puzzle?

Last Month’s Answers

February Sudoku Jim McMillan is last month’s winner!

Congratulations!

Win Great Prizes!

New winner selected each month

Good Luck!

Mar. Sudoku

Sudoku requires no arithmetic skills.The object of the game is to fill all the blank squares with the correct numbers. Each row and each column of 9 numbers must include all digits 1 through 9 in any order. Each 3 by 3 subsection of the 9 by 9 square must include all digits 1 through 9 as well. Good luck! The first correct answers selected from the drawing on Mar. 21 will win.

Send your answers along with your name, address and telephone number to: SENIOR CONNECTION OR MATURE LIFESTYLES 1602 S. PARSONS AVE., SEFFNER, FL 33584

WIN! WIN! WIN! GREAT PRIZES!

SUDOKU MUST BE RECEIVED BY MAR. 21, 2012

Word Search Answers From

February 2012

Send your answers along with your name, address and telephone number to:

The first correct answers selected from the drawing on March 21 will win.

MYSTERY WIN! WIN! WIN! MYSTERY SENIOR CONNECTION or PRIZE! PRIZE! MATURE LIFESTYLES GREAT PRIZES! 1602 S. PARSONS AVE. SEFFNER, FL 33584 (Puzzles must be received by Mar. 21, 2012.)

Veronica Devine is last month’s winner!

Congratulations!

&

Florida’s Award Winning Senior Magazine

Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 33

Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 34

Enjoy a Savory Springtime Brunch W

hen spring is in the air, it’s the perfect time to bring family and friends together for a welcoming brunch.

When planning your menu, be sure to have plenty of savory dishes on hand to satisfy your guests. And rest easy, you don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen to prepare your feast.

Using ingredients already full of flavor, such as Johnsonville Breakfast Sausage, lets you create memorable brunch dishes without a lot of work.

Recipe These recipes are simple yet satisfying—and leave you plenty of time to enjoy the company gathered around your table.

For more savory brunch recipes, visit johnsonville.com.

Amazing Muffin Cups

Prep Time: 20 minutes; Cook Time: 25 minutes; Yield: 12 servings.

3 cups refrigerated shredded hash browns 3 tablespoons melted butter 1/8 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon pepper 12 links Johnsonville Original Breakfast Sausage 6 eggs 2 cups (8 ounces) shredded 4-cheese Mexican blend cheese 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper Chopped fresh chives or green onions, for garnish

Place 12 paper liners in a muffin pan; spray liners with cooking spray.

In bowl, combine hash browns, butter, salt and pepper. Press hash brown mixture into the bottom and up the sides of the muffin cups. Bake at 400°F for 12 minutes or until lightly browned.

Meanwhile, cook sausage according to package directions; cut into 1/2-inch pieces.

Divide sausage between muffin cups.

Combine eggs, cheese and bell pepper. Pour over sausage.

Sprinkle with chives. Bake for 13 to 15 minutes or until set.

Easy Sausage Roll-Ups

Prep Time: 15 minutes; Cook Time: 15 minutes; Yield: 16 roll-ups 1 package (12 ounces) Johnsonville Breakfast Sausage Links 2 containers refrigerated crescent rolls (16 rolls total) 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 2 tablespoons sugar

Prepare sausage according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Unroll crescent roll dough according to directions on package. Place one cooked sausage onto one end of a dough triangle. Roll dough around sausage according to directions on dough package and place on jelly-roll pan with the seam side down. Repeat with remaining sausage and dough. (You will have 2 extra rolls. Bake and enjoy with jam.)

Mix cinnamon and sugar together and sprinkle evenly over roll-ups. Bake according to directions on dough package. Serve hot.

Suggestion: Serve with warm maple syrup, honey or your favorite preserves for dipping. (FamilyFeatures.com)

Stay Connected!

Be Inspired M Find Great Recipes M Read Your Paper Online

Go to: www.seniorconnectionfl.com ENTER OUR TRIVIA CONTEST ONLINE & WIN!

Click on CONTESTS (red bar upper right). Answer Our Trivia Questions & Send Us Your Answers. Correct Answers Will Be Entered for a Drawing on April 1st!

M Places to Go M Things to Do M Contests M Great Local Stories M Great Events Senior Connection and Mature Lifestyles

and 1602 S. Parsons Ave. Seffner, FL 33584 Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 35

Seniors Getting Together

WOMEN SEEKING MEN

4093 CHRISTIAN WWBF, 63, ATTRACTIVE, honest, sincere, who loves the Lord. ISO a true Christian black gentleman who believes in the same.

Love good home cooking, sports, fishing.

A good SOH. 55 – 72. FF, write. Tampa.

4103 TALL GERMAN WOMAN Heart of gold, loyal, fun, likes travel, nature, arts and museums. Looking for same cultured men. Military or Fed. retiree. Picture please. NS, NDrg, TLC. Tampa.

4106 SEEKING CUTE 59 – 65 YO HONEST, one-woman man. IQ, “Patriotic,” conservative with SOH. Love travel? Rent RV? Love Ford Mustangs (rear-drive), beaches, sm dogs! NS/ SD/NDrg. I’m 5-5”, HWP, pretty w/blonde hair.

Let’s dance—make bucket list! Bay area.

4110 KIND, COMPASSIONATE ITALIAN WWF, FF with a sincere, generous, honest man, 68 – 72 years young. I like outdoors, dining out, going to church, country music, good conversation. Send photo.

4112 SLENDER, ATTRACTIVE W, WW seeks lovable 75 plus gent for sharing good times. Enjoy dining, dancing, travel, movies, thrift stores, togetherness, caring for each other. St. Petersburg.

4115 SEEKING NICE GENTLEMAN Petite, single, educated Filipina, NS/ND, kind, honest, caring, loving and sincere Likes church, nature, music, travel and home life.

ISO honest, decent gentleman 60 – 70 for friendship. Tampa.

MEN SEEKING WOMEN 4094 SEEKING A LOVING LADY, 70+ YY, enjoys movies, dining out, travel, dancing and more.

I’m W, M, WW, 5’8”, 175 lbs., NS, SD, Zephyrhills.

4109 SWM 59YY, LOOKING FOR SOMEONE who likes music, boat rides, sunsets, car racing and movies. NS, ND, friendship or more.

RUN YOUR AD FOR ONLY $6 A MONTH

SENIORS GETTING TOGETHER Personal Ad Placement

Deadline for ads is the 15th of the month prior to placement.

Only $6 to place an ad!

Mark The Edition(s) You Would Like To Run Your Ad In: Hillsborough & Suncoast (Pinellas/Pasco) Lake/Marion Counties Southwest/Charlotte (Fort Myers/Port Charlotte)

Ad Copy • Please Print Neatly • 30 Word Limit Title (First 4 Words):

City (No Charge):

If more room is needed, please use separate sheet. Mail this form along with $6 for each ad per month (add $4 for each additional edition/market in the same month).

We cannot accept your ad without it. This information is confidential.

Name: Address: City: Phone:

State:

Zip:

E-mail:

MAIL TO: SENIORS GETTING TOGETHER, C/O NEWS CONNECTION, USA, INC. 1602 S. PARSONS AVE., SEFFNER, FL 33584

Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 36

4113 SCM, 57, ISO HEALTHY YOUNG attitude Christian lady who wishes respect, total love. Let’s travel, walk, talk. Your age unimportant; interest in fitness is. I’m finanially secure. Send photo and phone. St. Petersburg.

SEEKING TRAVEL COMPANION 4107 WOMAN SEEKING FEMALE TRAVEL COMPANION for Italy in my condo. I have one lady and I need two more for a great time. May 5 – 18. She will share expenses and have an unforgettable vacation! I live in Largo, FL.

Commonly Used Abbreviations: F-Female, M-Male, S-Single, D-Divorced, WWWidow, A-Asian, B-Black, H-Hispanic, I-Indian, W-White, C-Christian, J-Jewish, YO-Years Old, YY-Years Young, ISO-In Search Of, SOHSense Of Humor, SM-Smokes, S-Light Smoker, NS-Non Smoker, ND-Non Drinker, SD-Social (Light) Drinker, DR-Drinks, NDrg- No Drugs, LTR-Long Term Relationship, HWP-Height & Weight Proportional, R-Retired, P-Professional, FF-Friendship First, TLC-Tender Loving Care.

Stroll Downe Memory Lapn To The Ho

TO RESPOND TO AN AD

Write a letter to the person you want to contact. Place that letter in a stamped envelope and write the ad number on the bottom left hand side of the envelope. Place your stamped, numbered envelope(s), along with $2 for each letter enclosed, into another envelope and address it to: News Connection USA, Inc. Seniors Getting Together 1602 S. Parsons Ave.,Seffner, FL. 33584 TO PLACE AN AD

Send your ad, stating what category you would like it placed in, your edition(s), along with a $6 fee for 30 words (25¢ for each additional word, abbreviations not charged) to the News Connection USA, Inc. address listed above. Ads received by the 15th of the month will appear in the following issue. No more than three ads will be accepted each month per person. The editor reserves the right to edit any ads for space or content. In order to protect our readers’ privacy, we will not include phone numbers, e-mail or home addresses in the ad copy. City or area included at no charge.

Calling All Bachelors and Belles

Fabulous 50s Parties & Dances

M

Freedom Plaza Dance

Who’s Playing:

eet that special Class Reunions • Birthdays • Anniversaries Sock Hop Dances • Community Events someone or Retirement Parties • Senior Adult Events just cut a rug at School Events • Office or Home/Backyard Parties these Friday Original Decorations • Live 50s Characters Night Dances Dancers • Original 50s Music Contact Us For Your Next Event: at the Zendah 727.348.7532 ✭ 727.277.1355 Grotto

Hall, garye123_99@yahoo.com 4402 W. Ohio fabulousfiftiesparties.com Ave.,Tampa, from 7:30 – 11:30 p.m.

J

oin the Freedom Plaza Dance Club March 15 for a free dance lesson at 6:15 p.m. and open dancing from 7 to 9:30 p.m.

Freedom Plaza Retirement Community is located at 1010 American Eagle Blvd., Sun City Center. Public invited. No RSVP required. Live music, cash bar, good fun. Call (813) 633-1992 for information.

March 9: Joey Royal

March 16: Mike Unwin— St. Patrick’s Day Dance March 23: Joey Royal March 30: DJ Tony

Admission is $7 for members and $9 for non-members. For more information, please contact Bud Collins at (813) 971-0817.

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Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 37

BRIDGE BITES

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT ATTEND A FREE EXCITING BREAKTHROUGH HEALTH SEMINAR SERIES

From The American Contract Bridge League

BY BRIAN GUNNELL

• Would you like to sleep better and have more energy?

• Do you understand what causes aging & health problems as you age?

T

his month we take a look at “trump promotion.” Put yourself in the West seat, defending 4♠.

• Do you know what is the leading cause of over 200 diseases and cancer?

• Do you know what Science Researchers are now saying about your health issues?

• Would you like to know there is now a PROVEN SCIENTIFIC answer to the above?

• Come and listen to people who give testimony to this SOLUTION! • We will show you how you can help us get the word to others with their health problems and get paid while having lots of fun!

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813-924-4800 Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 38

To start with, please locate a sheet of paper or your morning slice of toast (marmalade side facing up). Place it diagonally across the diagram, so that only the West and North hands are showing. As West, your opening lead is the ♣A on which Partner plays the Seven and Declarer the Nine. Next, you cash the ♣K (everyone following the suit), then the ♥A. You’ve cashed your three winners, where’s the setting trick? A Diamond ruff? No, Partner

A Couple Of Upper-Cuts had two Clubs, and can hardly have more than two Spades. He cannot have 2=9=0=2 distribution, with that shape he would surely have pushed on to 5♥. The only other possibility is a trump trick. Yes, indeed! The magic card here, amazingly enough, is the Spade Six! You lead another Club, and if East ruffs with the Six he forces Declarer to overruff with an honor, promoting a trick for your ♠J! This form of trump promotion is known as an upper-cut, and East must ruff with the Smashing Six to deliver the knock-out blow. Ruffing with the Feeble Four would be no more than a tickle under Declarer’s chin.

A Second Upper-Cut! Next, imagine that East is Declarer, playing in 4♥. South cashes the ♠A, ♠K, and leads a third Spade, which North ruffs with the ♥J. Another upper-cut, promoting South’s ♥T? No, Declarer simply pitches away his Diamond loser and makes his contract. Let’s have a do over. After cashing the top two Spades, South cashes the ♦K, and then leads the third Spade.

Now Declarer really is done for, this time the upper-cut sets the contract.

Visit acbl.org for more about the fascinating game of bridge or email marketing@acbl.org.

To find a bridge club in Florida, go to district9acbl.org/D9Clubsmap.htm.

Bridge article provided courtesy of St. Petersburg Bridge Club: stpetebridge.org.

“Spring Thing!” Coming J

oin “Spring Thing!”—downtown Plant City’s street fair Saturday, March 31 from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m.

The Historic Downtown area will host qualified appraisers to assess antiques, fine art, collectibles and jewelry at the Train Station Depot, 102 N. Palmer St. A fee of $5 will be

charged for each appraisal. Enjoy antique dealers, local artists, hand-crafters plus entertainment for the whole family in the area.

March 31 is also the kickoff for the Plant City Fresh Market which will be offered every Saturday.

For more information, call (727) 415-2081.

Oldsmar Seniors Involved Year Round

O

Senior Haircuts $8

ldsmar Senior Center offers diverse programs either free or at minimal cost and can be discounted with a Recreation Center Card. Participants ages 50 and older enjoy: O.S.C.A.R.S. (Oldsmar Senior Center Art Recreation Social), F.A.B. (Fiber Arts Bunch), Woodworking, Billiards, Tai Chi, Senior Socials and day trips.

Gray Matters, the Senior Center Newsletter, is available at the Senior Center, City Hall, Public Library, Cypress Forest Recreation Center, Gull Aire Village and online at myoldsmar.com (under City Departments, then Leisure Services).

Oldsmar Senior Center, 127 State St. West, Oldsmar. Info: (813) 749-1155 or e-mail briefler@myoldsmar.com.

Unique Vacation Hotel for Cats Only! ✦ Featured on Nationwide TV ✦ Reasonable rates ✦ Huge windows on tropical gardens ✦ Vet on call ✦ Soft music, lots of loving & petting

15501 Boyette Rd. Riverview

Master Barber AB (50+) located at Barber Unisex Clipper and Scissors Over Comb Old Fashioned Cuts

PLEASE CALL 5MIN. AHEAD AS COMING IN FOR HAIRCUT We also do Ladies Cuts - Ask for AB

• Pre-Planning Available • Cremation • Local Burial • Out-of-State Burial/Transfer • Anatomical Donation • Grief Counseling/Grief Support • Spacious Chapel and Family Rooms • Children’s Play Room • Conveniently Located in Sun City Center • Hearing Impaired Service Available • Golf Cart and Wheelchair Accessible • Sponsor of Toys for Tots Program • Member of Apollo Beach, Riverview, Ruskin and Sun City Center Chambers of Commerce • We Accept all Insurance Funded Pre-Arrangement

Located inside Riverview Flea Market Same Shopping Center as Ruth’s Steakhouse

Best Quality Work & Prices in Town 7415 US Hwy. 301 S. Riverview Closed Mon. & Tues.

Business Phone: 813-900-9949

Open: Wed.,Thurs., Fri., & Sat. 10am – 6pm, Sun. 1 – 5pm

American Legion Hall

BINGO

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Seniors! u 212

Post 26

Plant City, FL Baker & Woodrow Wilson

Every Sat. night 6:30 p.m. – 10 p.m.

1851 Rickenbacker Drive Sun City Center, FL

Public Welcome

(813) 634-9900 or 1 (877) 346-5600

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Call: 727-785-7947 or 727- 455-1237

e-mail: Russell.Elvis@yahoo.com • website: www.russellelvis.com

u

u

Two restaurants…one location Great food. Great service. Great night.

THE PRESERVE

THE CREEK

Casual fare offering flat screen TVs, daily drink specials and the best wings in town. Call to hear about our nightly all-you-can-eats!

A stress-free white tablecloth fine dining atmosphere offering a fresh, never frozen menu paired with the South Shore’s finest wine list.

Cypress Creek Golf Club 1011 Cypress Village Blvd., Ruskin 813-634-8888, ext. 2

OZZIE’S BUFFET BAR & GRILL “Great American Home Cooking”

Open for:

Breakfast ~ Lunch ~ Dinner

LUNCH & DINNER BUFFET NOW SERVING Welcome Back Friends! Crab Legs & Whole Evening Entertainment!

6pm – 9pm, Wednesday & Thursday

Lobster Specials

American • Caribbean Italian • Oriental Best Fried Chicken in town Best Jamaican Jerk Chicken

Lobster or Crab Dinner

with 2 sides. Buffet not included.

Hours: Mon. – Thurs. 11 a.m. – 8 p.m Fri. – Sat. 11 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. Sun. 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Catering & Take-out Available • Banquet rooms Available

3074 E. COLLEGE AVE.

Ruskin, FL off 674

PH. (813) 641-1300

Healthy Choices Available SENIOR DISCOUNT Located at Sun Port Plaza

Senior Connection • March 2012 • page 39

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