Senior Connection Suncoast edition April 2011

VOLUME 22, NUMBER 4

The Wild Side of Quebec

The Cupid in Your Computer • Get A Job ... Your Age Can Help!

• Parkinson’s Foundation Helps Families • Question About Social Security • Mom Always Loved You Best!

SUNCOAST

APRIL 2011

Our Peers in Japan—Their Suffering and Comfort in the Tsunami Disaster

Our Peers in Japan—Their Suffering and Comfort in the Tsunami Disaster

BY JANICE DOYLE Dear Readers,

B

ecause of modern technology, we are tied to the rest Janice Doyle, of the world through Editor instant visual images.

As I observed the devastation caused by the tsunami in Japan, I couldn’t help thinking that thousands of those shown in shelters were my peers, people in their 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s whose desire for the comforts of home are very much like mine. Now they are without food, water and their own homes. Most have lost family members. All are suffering greatly.

I have lived in Japan. It is a unique country in all ways, from geography to architecture and from art to the customs and personal discipline which make it “work” in spite of the dense population in such a small geographical size.

One day I entered a middle school gymnasium to be a part of a program.

The entire student body was being seated as I arrived. As the several hundred students came in, class by class in order, they each stopped quickly and quietly to remove their shoes. They weren’t kicking them off into random piles, either.

As the first classes entered, they turned so the heels of their shoes touched the wall, toes pointed forward, until the wall was lined.

Subsequent classes created lines of shoes in front of that, finally reaching several feet out into the gym.

All the shoes were black and similar in style, yet at the end of the program, each pair was quietly claimed without a single problem.

Last week I read that in the shelters in Japan all the shoes are lined up inside the door. It was easy for me to imagine. It would not have occurred to them to have done otherwise.

And no one would have argued.

A picture in the March 19 Wall Street Journal shows a group of Senior Connection • April 2011 • page 2

seniors in a shelter lined up doing stretching exercises. It is an integral part of their society to take care of the little things (like shoes and daily stretching exercises) with self discipline and then look after the big things as they arise. Big things —like recovering from a tsunami.

In 2004, Hurricane Charley wreaked havoc on communities here in Florida.

Some of our readers could detail from that experience the immediate frustrations the Japanese seniors face (except that the Japanese are cold instead of hot). Many of you could walk them through the decisions they have to make as they rebuild their lives.

Nuclear threat What Floridians didn’t face is the radiation from the nuclear power plants.

All Japanese people know family stories of health problems from radiation exposure after the WWII bombings. They know the diseases well.

They know what might happen.

I have visited both Nagasaki and Hiroshima. I have seen the museums which tell the stories of August 1945 and the results of the bombs. The people of Japan made the transition then, quickly and boldly, from weapons of destruction to rebuilding their homes and communities. They will do it again, going from this natural disaster to rebuilding.

Sometimes now, years after living in Japan, a sight, a smell or a sound takes me back in my mind to the community in southern Japan which I knew best. Because of that familiarity, I can picture the communities destroyed by the tsunami—the shops, the signs, the children, the food.

One afternoon, my friend and I stopped to watch some boys about 10 or 11 years old playing baseball in a small corner of a park. Soon

they offered to let us take a turn at bat, and so we became a part of an American-Japanese baseball game, laughing with them as we ran bases, caught fly balls and pitched to them. Children having fun, like many caught up in the tsunami.

But as I write this, I also remember the Buddhist temple I passed every morning and evening on my way to and from work, with its huge iron bell just inside the door. As the months passed, I witnessed people making daily offerings, and I was also witness to occasional weddings and funerals.

Although I didn’t understand the words at funerals, I often stopped to sit on the steps and listen to the chanting of the sutra and smell the incense. It was such a contrast to my familiar Christian traditions.

Hillsborough, Pinellas/Pasco Published monthly by News Connection U.S.A., Inc.

Publisher, President: Kathy J. Beck kathy@srmagazine.com Editor: Janice Doyle 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 Floyd: (727) 678-0315 Chuck Bingham: (813) 293-1550 Frank Zaccaro: (813) 388-3200 Sun City Center Judy Coleman: (813) 653-1988 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.srmagazine.com Send press releases to:

janice@srmagazine.com

Rebuilding Life’s changes are often marked in cultures through religion. Although most Japanese claim no religion today, many of the living will help the country’s dead pass on to the afterlife in Buddhist temples. For the older generation of Japanese—my peers— the pain will be intense, the feeling of loss overwhelming. But they will find comfort in the familiar chants, in the burning of incense and in the deep, resonant ‘bong’ of the temple bell.

Then they will begin to rebuild.

My thoughts and prayers are with them.

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 May 2011 issue is April 15, 2011.

Magazines are out by the 7th of each month.

All rights reserved.

BY JANICE DOYLE Dear Readers,

B

ecause of modern technology, we are tied to the rest Janice Doyle, of the world through Editor instant visual images.

As I observed the devastation caused by the tsunami in Japan, I couldn’t help thinking that thousands of those shown in shelters were my peers, people in their 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s whose desire for the comforts of home are very much like mine. Now they are without food, water and their own homes. Most have lost family members. All are suffering greatly.

I have lived in Japan. It is a unique country in all ways, from geography to architecture and from art to the customs and personal discipline which make it “work” in spite of the dense population in such a small geographical size.

One day I entered a middle school gymnasium to be a part of a program.

The entire student body was being seated as I arrived. As the several hundred students came in, class by class in order, they each stopped quickly and quietly to remove their shoes. They weren’t kicking them off into random piles, either.

As the first classes entered, they turned so the heels of their shoes touched the wall, toes pointed forward, until the wall was lined.

Subsequent classes created lines of shoes in front of that, finally reaching several feet out into the gym.

All the shoes were black and similar in style, yet at the end of the program, each pair was quietly claimed without a single problem.

Last week I read that in the shelters in Japan all the shoes are lined up inside the door. It was easy for me to imagine. It would not have occurred to them to have done otherwise.

And no one would have argued.

A picture in the March 19 Wall Street Journal shows a group of Senior Connection • April 2011 • page 2

seniors in a shelter lined up doing stretching exercises. It is an integral part of their society to take care of the little things (like shoes and daily stretching exercises) with self discipline and then look after the big things as they arise. Big things —like recovering from a tsunami.

In 2004, Hurricane Charley wreaked havoc on communities here in Florida.

Some of our readers could detail from that experience the immediate frustrations the Japanese seniors face (except that the Japanese are cold instead of hot). Many of you could walk them through the decisions they have to make as they rebuild their lives.

Nuclear threat What Floridians didn’t face is the radiation from the nuclear power plants.

All Japanese people know family stories of health problems from radiation exposure after the WWII bombings. They know the diseases well.

They know what might happen.

I have visited both Nagasaki and Hiroshima. I have seen the museums which tell the stories of August 1945 and the results of the bombs. The people of Japan made the transition then, quickly and boldly, from weapons of destruction to rebuilding their homes and communities. They will do it again, going from this natural disaster to rebuilding.

Sometimes now, years after living in Japan, a sight, a smell or a sound takes me back in my mind to the community in southern Japan which I knew best. Because of that familiarity, I can picture the communities destroyed by the tsunami—the shops, the signs, the children, the food.

One afternoon, my friend and I stopped to watch some boys about 10 or 11 years old playing baseball in a small corner of a park. Soon

they offered to let us take a turn at bat, and so we became a part of an American-Japanese baseball game, laughing with them as we ran bases, caught fly balls and pitched to them. Children having fun, like many caught up in the tsunami.

But as I write this, I also remember the Buddhist temple I passed every morning and evening on my way to and from work, with its huge iron bell just inside the door. As the months passed, I witnessed people making daily offerings, and I was also witness to occasional weddings and funerals.

Although I didn’t understand the words at funerals, I often stopped to sit on the steps and listen to the chanting of the sutra and smell the incense. It was such a contrast to my familiar Christian traditions.

Hillsborough, Pinellas/Pasco Published monthly by News Connection U.S.A., Inc.

Publisher, President: Kathy J. Beck kathy@srmagazine.com Editor: Janice Doyle 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 Floyd: (727) 678-0315 Chuck Bingham: (813) 293-1550 Frank Zaccaro: (813) 388-3200 Sun City Center Judy Coleman: (813) 653-1988 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.srmagazine.com Send press releases to:

janice@srmagazine.com

Rebuilding Life’s changes are often marked in cultures through religion. Although most Japanese claim no religion today, many of the living will help the country’s dead pass on to the afterlife in Buddhist temples. For the older generation of Japanese—my peers— the pain will be intense, the feeling of loss overwhelming. But they will find comfort in the familiar chants, in the burning of incense and in the deep, resonant ‘bong’ of the temple bell.

Then they will begin to rebuild.

My thoughts and prayers are with them.

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 May 2011 issue is April 15, 2011.

Magazines are out by the 7th of each month.

All rights reserved.

The Cupid in Your Computer “W • Use a fairly recent picture and avoid flattering glam shots because you want very little discrepancy between the picture and what you really look like. It’s much smarter to elicit a comment such as, “My goodness, you’re much better looking in person!” instead of, “Oh my God, is this what you really look like?”

hen it comes to dating, the internet has broadened and widened the playing field and deepened the pool,” says Dr. Joy Browne, author of Dating For Dummies®, 3rd Edition. Some of her “rules” for venturing online:

• Be precise. “Think about who you are and what makes you unusual, and list both your successes and your failures,” says Dr. Browne. “Don’t allow yourself to wander into abstracts or use trite phrases. No moonlight strolls, walks in the park, or, ‘I’m a true romantic’; these descriptions of yourself are meaningless, overused and silly.

Remind yourself that a focused intent is time-saving, practical and useful, so be thoughtful and specific. You want your ad to be honest, compelling, eye catching, reflective of who you are.”

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• Don’t even think about using a picture of yourself with your arm around somebody of the opposite sex (duh). A picture with a friend is also a mixed message.

• Be careful about using props like a dog or a fancy car. This is about you, so it should be a good headshot of you alone.

• Women, don’t be tempted to be too sexy in your picture or you’re going to send the wrong message.

And guys; keep your shirt on.

Watch for more of Dr. Browne’s tips in future issues.

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A health plan and a stand alone prescription drug plan with a Medicare contract. A sales person will be present with information and applications. For accommodations of persons with special needs at sales meetings, call 1-866-836-5082 (TTY: 711) 8:00am to 2:00am EST – Monday – Friday. This is an advertisement. +HEDIS* Measures (11/2010).

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TMP 4/11 Senior Connection • April 2011 • page 3

Awareness Events At The Florida Holocaust Museum

OPERA TAMPA

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pril is Genocide and Human Rights Awareness Month at the Florida Holocaust Museum.

Here are some of their sponsored events for this month:

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Passion

Pardoll Family Lecture Series about experiences in Bosnia.

Sally Becker, humanitarian worker, and Maja Kazazic, a survivor child.

6:30 p.m. at the Museum. Free.

Betrayal

Redemption FRIDAY

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Call today to schedule a tour!

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3800 62nd Avenue North • Pinellas Park, FL 33781 Senior Connection • April 2011 • page 4

M

Rose Mapendo: Rwanda survivor. USF St. Petersburg, Campus Activities Center, 6th Ave. S and 2nd St. S. 6:30 p.m.

Details at (727) 873- 4872. Free.

Admission is $14 for adults. For more information, please call (727) 820-0100 or visit their website at flholocaustmuseum.org.

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Film Screening: Fambul Tok: Victims and perpetrators of Sierra Leone’s brutal war. 6 p.m. at Tampa Theatre, 711 North Franklin Street, Tampa. (813) 274-8981. $9, RSVP: (727) 820-0100, ext. 236.

LIC#AL10314

ay 1 Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day) at Florida Holocaust Museum. Speaker: Dr. Ken Hanson and commemorative ceremony. 2 p.m. Free.

Around Town

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

T

17

12

20

uesdays Upper Pinellas Singles, meets every Tuesday at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 750 San Salvadore Dr. in Dunedin. 6 p.m. dinner, entertainmnent, speaker; $7. Other social activities. Info: Hank (727) 424-3961.

Retired Officers Wives Club luncheon at Banquet Masters, 8100 Park Blvd., Pinellas Park. Info or reservations at (727) 595-4619.

14

through May 11 Gayle Lerman DeCoste art show at the Francis Wilson Playhouse, 302 Seminole St., Clearwater. Tuesday – Friday. Info: (727) 474-3386.

14

Tampa Bay Symphony concert under the direction of Dr. Jack Heller, 7:30 p.m. at Mahaffey Theater, St. Pete (same concert at 4 p.m. on Sunday, April 17 at Straz Center, Tampa.) tampabaysymphony.com.

Tickets at the door: $20. For more information, call (727) 522-8459.

15

through May 8 RENT by American Stage in the Park, Demens Landing Park. $11 tickets for lawn seating. 8 p.m. (727) 823-7529.

16

Film Screening: Fambul Tok: Victims and perpetrators of Sierra Leone’s brutal war. 6 p.m. at Tampa Theatre, 711 North Franklin Street, Tampa. $9. Please RSVP by calling (727) 820-0100, ext. 236.

“My Big Fat Italian Funeral,” a murder mystery dinner show

by MurderS She Wrote. Dinner: Chef Robert Hesse of Fox 13’s Hell’s Kitchen at Psspaghetti’s Italian Restaurant and Market, Clearwater. $30/dinner and show. 6 p.m. Call (727) 797-9615.

27

Hydroponics class at St. Petersburg Main Library, 3745 9th Ave. N. 2 to 3:30 p.m.

Register online at Pinellascountyextension.org or (727) 582-2100.

Send Around Town news to Senior Connection Magazine, 1602 S. Parsons Ave., Seffner, FL 33584; fax (813) 651-1989. News must be received by the 10th of the month prior to event (i.e. April 10 for May event.)

At the Largo Cultural Center

Art in the Park in Oldsmar, R.E. Olds Park. Free admission. Opens 10 a.m. Call (813) 749-1260 or visit MyOldsmar.com.

See these in April:

“Songs for a New World.”

Music and lyrics by Jason Robert Brown at the Palladium, SPC, 253 5th Ave. N., 3 to 5:30 p.m. (727) 822-3590 or newamericantheater.org.

Dr. Etta/Family Specialist, Female Comic of the Year Award-winner. 7 p.m. $30/door.

17 17

“The Oster Conspiracy of 1938: The Unknown Story of the Military Plot to Kill Hitler and Avert World War II” in Heritage Village: Pinellas Room, 11909 125th St. N., Largo. 2 p.m. Dr. Terry Parssinen, presenter, professor of history at the University of Tampa.

For info, call (727) 582-2233.

9 10 15 22

Closeup Magic Competition by Tampa Bay Magic Club. 8 p.m. $27/door.

– 17 Rodgers & Hammerstein Songbook song and dance presentation. $30/door.

Trashy Fashion Show 4. $10.

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Senior Connection • April 2011 • page 5

Mark Your Calendars for Fun & Entertainment!

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Seminole Recreation Center May 12, 2011•9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

9100 113th Street N., Seminole, FL 33772 Senior Friendly Sports Center

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Call 1-888-670-0040 • www.srmgazine.com • 727-391-8345 Senior Connection • April 2011 • page 6

Dance Exhibitions by Fred Astaire

Fun Activities in Central Florida

8

– 9 Central Florida Dragon Boat Festival on Lake Dora in Tavares. See long skinny boats with Chinese dragon heads and tails with as many as 20 paddlers per boat. Race is the 9th at 9:15 a.m.

Info: cfdragonboat.org or (352) 343-2531.

9

Spring Jazz Stroll at Harry P. Leu Gardens, Orlando. Live jazz, candlelit walkways. Bring picnic meal and blanket or chairs. Lawn seating only. Cost: $15 – $20. Info: leugardens.org or (407) 246-2620.

22

– 24 Free Easter Weekend Open House tour of The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, the largest collection of Tiffany glass in the world. Info: morsemuseum.org or (407) 645-5311.

24

85th Annual Easter Sunrise Service at Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales. Free admission, 6 a.m. – 8 a.m. 60-bell carillon and Lake Wales Chorale. Easter buffet served in the Blue Palmetto Café for an additional fee. Admission: Free. Info: boktowergardens.org or (863) 676-1408.

Come Discover One of Florida’s Premier Age 50 & Up Independent/ Active Apartment Community Homes.

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30

Concert under the Stars. Take your picnic and enjoy a moonlit evening with the Imperial Symphony Orchestra and carillon.

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Complimentary Continental Breakfast • Fitness Center Computer Room & Library • Convenience Store & Hair Salon Playground for Visiting Grandkids • Arts/Crafts Room Party Room • Climate Control Halls & Stairways Planned Weekly & Monthly Events • Sparkling Pool Games Room • Weekly Games including Bingo Elevators For Easy Access • Laundromats on Site

Pictures by Tina Brunner

ast month, the Senior Fun Fest was held at the historic St. Petersburg Coliseum. “Everything was just great,” said Pat Bellaire; “I found an Easter egg and won a prize, too!”

Kathy Beck, the publisher of this magazine—Senior Connection—said things went very well and everyone had a good time. Over 3,000 Seniors attended throughout the day. We pride our publication and our events on providing important information and good entertainment.

Lexington Club is in a Non-Evacuation Zone Pet Friendly Community

727-446-2582

Our next event is at the Seminole Recreation Center on May 12.

For more information about upcoming events, call (813) 653-1988 or go to www.srmagazine.com.

1200 South Missouri Ave. Clearwater, FL 33756 (opposite Georgie Boy Restaurant) We also accept Clearwater Housing Section 8 voucher.

Senior Connection • April 2011 • page 7

S e n d I n a C lown !

lowns are supposed to be funny, aren’t they? They work to entertain us, often by silly antics that make us laugh. An unbelievable number of them emerge, center ring, from a tiny car. They squirt water from a flower in some unsuspecting person’s face. They trip and fall, although it appears nothing is in the way. This is the humor of the unexpected that we knew and loved from the time we were children.

But the idea of clowns in Nursing Homes puzzled me. Surely, in that setting, those unexpected behaviors would be inappropriate, maybe even dangerous. Nursing home residents are at an entirely different stage of life, often preparing for death. It’s hard to see what’s funny about that.

It turns out that therapeutic clowns behave differently from those who entertain in the circus.

Shobi Dobi, a world-renowned caring clown, author and teacher, explains the difference this way: “The circus…clown directs and entertains…the (therapeutic) clown listens to the (person) and then acts accordingly. The focus is on the connection. (Clowns) can be found sitting, quietly listening to a patient… whatever is needed at the moment.”

According to Clown Patty Wooten who is also a nurse, author and leader in the field of therapeutic humor, clowns in nursing homes are there because people need to know Senior Connection • April 2011 • page 8

L

E IN

G

C

stay fully absorbed in the moment.

With a clown by your side, you are no longer alone on your path.

And, with a clown by your side you may, for the moment, step away from any regrets of the past, fears of the future and pain in the moment. From the moment when you nod yes, inviting into your room that clown who is shyly peeking around the door, you are engaged in uis Campaneria a “now-time” heart of A-1 Magic to heart connection has entertained with magic that might, perhaps, and balloons full time for put a twinkle in the past 22 years. your eye or even a “At last count, I can make about smile on your face.

1000 different balloon animals, not So, please, to mention how many balloon hats Send In A Clown. and many other types of balloon Photos by Tina Brunner creations,” Luis says. “The smiles on seniors’ faces makes it worth every balloon that popped while learning this art. When I meet a new event I love to hear them G H coordinator, U comment, ‘Balloons?

Does he A L E know there aren’t going to be P L e’s a clown, O any kids here?’

All I have to PE an actor, a say is, ‘watch!’” juggler and a friend who Visit his website at makes it his mission to bring A1magic.com. about the laughter that causes healing to the body, spirit and soul.

He’s Charlie Chaplin, a unicyclist and a four-legged man who keeps seniors laughing wherever he goes.

Fritzy, the one-man circus, is a regular at the Fun Fests and Senior Extravaganzas hosted by this publication. He says, “I’ve never met a senior I didn’t like. Seniors are never concerned about being the first one to laugh, and they also love to be hugged!” Once at a Fun Fest, he said out loud, ‘Free hugs today!’ and seniors “actually started a hug line. Don’t tell any of them, but it’s me who really needs all the hugs! They love attention and I’m just the guy to give it to them.”

“I love them all!” says Fritzy, the clown who creates laughter that “does the heart good like medicine.”

Visit Fritzy’s website at fritzybrothers.com.

ENT MA E RT K IN A

BY ANN THOMAS

that someone cares about them. Everyone needs a safe space where they can relax and feel nurtured.

Therapeutic clowns are able to provide this safe space partly because they have no other agenda. They are not responsible for medications, meals or laundry. They are free of the “rush” and “fuss” that come with those other jobs. They are not there to “fix” the person.

They are there only to connect in a caring and loving way to wherever that person is at the moment. In this way their purpose seems to be similar to other caring visitors, including those of the four legged variety.

So then, why are they in clown costume? Why go through the extensive training and expensive perfecting of costume when it seems it could be done in everyday clothes without training?

The answer is that the costume changes things, both for the clown and the patient. The costume helps the clown move outside of their ego.

They, like any actor, become someone else and are able to put aside personal needs and assume an open vulnerability, an open heart. And, for the patient, there is an instant recognition that the clown is not part of the staff and therefore not someone who either requires something of them or is intending to do something to them.

The visual recognition says, without words, that the clown is someone who understands play and therefore, like anyone who knows how to play, is able to

ES V O RL

H

Improving Memory H

ave you become more forgetful over the years?

Rest assured that the minor memory lapses that occur with age are not usually signs of a serious neurological disorder, such as Alzheimer’s disease, but rather the result of normal changes in the structure and function of the brain.

Want to keep your brain sharp?

Keep learning and stay physically and mentally active. Those strategies boost your “brain bank,” improving the brain’s capacity to withstand damage associated with disease or injury.

Alzheimer’s disease doesn’t affect everyone in the same way. In people whose brains are being damaged by the disease, some continue to function normally while others suffer severe memory loss and other problems. Two components help explain the difference.

The first, called brain reserve capacity, is the number of nerve cells and nerve-to-nerve connections (synapses) in the brain. In theory, a person who has

more brain “hardware” is able to maintain memory and thinking skills even when some of the hardware is damaged.

The second element, cognitive reserve, reflects the brain’s ability to develop and use alternative nerve pathways or thinking strategies when disease or injury damage parts of the brain. People whose brains have alternate networks or cognitive strategies are less likely to experience disruption in their mental processes.

Many things can reduce brain reserve capacity, including strokes, injury and toxins, and there is little you can do to rebuild this genetically determined brain feature. But you can influence cognitive reserve.

The bottom line: Virtually any activity that stretches your brain can bolster your cognitive reserve. Engaging your brain with intellectually stimulating activities will afford your brain greater protection down the road.

providing 25 years of better hearing

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In our 25 years of hearing care, we’ve heard a lot of reasons why our patients’ lives were changed by wearing hearing aids. And now we’re sharing them with you, because we think that just like our past patients, once you find a hearing solution that is right for you, your life will only get better. To hear all of our stories, visit us at our stores, online, or on one of the many social outlets we take part in. See you soon!

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Senior Connection • April 2011 • page 9

Mom Loves You Best:

Siblings and Estrangement in Midlife Listless Siblings have little

Our People Make the Difference

SM

interaction with each other as adults and are indifferent to each other. If there were a traffic light for siblings, they would be the blinking yellow.

You do not show much interest in each other and are not sure exactly how to feel. You suspect something happened in your past to make you so uninvolved.

BY CATHY JO CRESS, MSW

W

Hometown Reunions in youR new

Hometown.

Whether you are an established resident or have recently moved to the Tampa Bay area, chances are you still have a soft spot in your heart for your old neighborhood. And this year, Lake Seminole Square and Freedom Square are making it easier to reconnect with people from your neck of the woods. Enjoy an afternoon of appetizers, cocktails and entertainment as you get caught up on the old times back home. Make plans now to be here when we host former residents from your home state.

oHio & WEst virGiniA Tuesday, April 19 at Freedom Square

illinois & WisConsin Tuesday, May 24 at Lake Seminole Square

nEW JErsEY & nEW YorK Tuesday, June 14 at Freedom Square

All EvEnts ArE from 2 to 4 p.m.

CAsuAl AttirE

Complimentary cocktails and appetizers.

reservations are required. frEEdom squArE A life Care retirement Community 7800 Liberty Lane Seminole, FL 33772

lAKE sEminolE squArE A Waterfront retirement Community 8333 Seminole Boulevard Seminole, FL 33772

(727) 398-0244

(727) 392-3932

www.brookdaleliving.com Our People Make the Difference and Daily Moments of Success are Service Marks of Brookdale Senior Living Inc., Nashville, TN, USA. SEM-ROP01-0611

Senior Connection • April 2011 • page 10

e are all Shakespeare, and our family is our stage. Sisters and brothers are characters on that stage, acting out their lives. As years go by we become playwrights recounting life events through family stories. Most sibling tales are good yarns, but in some stories bad things happen. Some of those unhappy memories become “I Hate You” stories for midlife siblings.

Siblings can be divided into several types. By going through this list, you can both tell what kind of relationship you have with your sibling and whether you just might be the type to have a sibling with an “I Hate You” story.

Beloved Siblings care deeply about each other, see each other often and regularly and think of each other as best friends.

Buddy Siblings are like beloved

siblings, but the caring between you is feet deep instead of yards deep. You don’t see them every day but you really like them. They are not your best friends.

Reliable Siblings are close but

usually live far way. You do not see or make contact with each other frequently. You have strong family bonds, and this sibling connection can be clamped into place in a family crisis and then released when things go back to normal. Reliable siblings are like an air mattress.

They can be blown up at any time.

Seething Siblings are full of anger.

You have a childhood hurt from a sibling that you feel deeply. You ignore him or her and don’t have much contact except perhaps on required holiday visits. You are not physical or violent with your anger, but it sometimes seethes inside.

Irate Siblings have a bone to pick

with a sibling about something that happened when you were younger.

It may have involved aggression or violence. Cain and Abel come to mind. Brothers and sisters who experienced sibling rivalry can fall into this category if violence and aggression and even sexual violence may have come into play.

If you believe that you and one of your siblings are one of the last three types—Listless, Seething, or Irate—you probably have an “I Hate You” story.

Even uninvolved or listless siblings can have extremely negative feelings toward a sister or brother. A listless sibling thinks about the sibling and feels something is the matter but can’t pinpoint the reason.

If you have any of these last three sibling relationships, you can get to the bottom of your sibling story by forgiveness. Then, as you face the aging-parent-care stage in midlife, you’ll be able to field a family sibling team to solve a parent’s problems. This is a critical family step.

Plus, reuniting with an estranged sibling gives you the rest of your life to spend with the longest, deepest relationship of your life.

Garden Beauty Takes Wing A

butterfly garden will make your yard attractive and bring these beautiful insects into your life. It’s a way to have fun and it’s easier than you may think.

You don’t need a huge yard to get started. Even a few strategically placed pots on your patio will entice butterflies if you select the right flowers. When planning for your garden, choose a sunny spot since butterflies need sun to keep their bodies warm enough to fly. It also helps to look at setting your garden in a sheltered area if possible – a fence or larger plant will do nicely.

The most successful butterfly gardens will include two types of plants: flowers for butterflies to drink (nectar plants) and leaves for baby butterflies—caterpillars—to eat (host plants). The butterfly life cycle begins with a female butterfly laying eggs on host plants. When the eggs hatch, the larvae (caterpillars)

eat the plants. It may seem odd to grow a plant that will be eaten up, but you will attract—and keep—more adult butterflies by providing food for their babies. Butterfly caterpillars are very picky and usually eat only one or two specific host plants. For example, a monarch caterpillar that runs out of milkweed leaves to eat will die rather than eat a different plant.

When it comes to plant choices, some gardeners prefer to select only native species while others choose a mixture of native and non-native plants. The choice is really up to you and what you think looks best for your garden.

Some recommended nectar plants for our area include pentas (avoid the dwarf variety), lantana, salvia, porterweed, gaillardia, jatropha, cosmos, verbena, and golden dewdrop.

When you are looking for host plants, look for milkweed, parsley, fennel, passionvine, cassia, pipevine, and citrus trees. If you’re short on

Simple Steps to Staying Safe

I

f you are a woman who travels alone frequently, there are a few simple steps you can take to help ensure your safety on the road and to protect yourself in a dangerous situation.

Selective parking: Whether it’s an outdoor parking lot or a covered garage, make sure the lot and space you are parking in are well lit. Avoid parking away from other cars and be aware of parking beside commercial vans without glass side panels, where potential attackers could be hiding. When you return to your car, quickly survey your surroundings.

Have your keys in hand: Before you leave the store, take the time to find your keys and have them in hand as you walk to your vehicle.

Time spent rummaging in your purse when you get to your car may leave you open to a potential attack. The keys in your hand can also be used as a weapon.

space, butterflies will find plants such as red pentas or milkweed irresistible. Butterfly plants are easy to find at local home improvement stores and nurseries and are often identified as butterfly attractors.

Group your flowers together to make them more enticing. Use a variety of sizes and heights to attract different types of butterflies. A butterfly garden should not require a lot of care, particularly if you select native plants that are adapted to our conditions here on Florida’s west coast. New plants will require watering, but established butterfly gardens should be droughttolerant and low maintenance.

One final tip—don’t use pesticides in your yard to control pests. You will risk killing the butterflies you are trying to attract. Besides, many of the bugs you see may actually be butterfly caterpillars.

The butterflies you attract will depend on the plants in your

neighborhood. If there’s an oak tree around, you may get hairstreaks; if there’s an orange tree, you may see giant swallowtails. Most backyard butterfly gardeners in Pinellas County can count on attracting monarchs, gulf fritillaries, and sulphurs at a minimum. The more butterfly plants you add, the more butterflies you will see.

For more ideas on how to set up your own yard, visit the butterfly garden at the Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. And there’s a new butterfly garden at Hammock Park, 1900 San Mateo Drive, Dunedin.

any bags, run and make a lot of noise that will draw attention to you. Do not go with the person to another location regardless of

promises that you won’t be hurt. If you feel you’re being followed by another car, call 911 and drive to a police station or hospital. (NAPSA)

Avoid playing Good Samaritan: While your heart might be in the right place, it’s not a good idea to stop to help someone when you are by yourself. Call 911 and let the dispatcher know the location of the person who is stranded.

Have a plan if trouble arises: If you are approached by a person in or around your car, drop

Senior Connection • April 2011 • page 11

Barrington Terrace Offers the Best in Assisted Living and Memory Care

Y

STEFAN SANDERLING, MUSIC DIRECTOR

C OFFEE CO NCERTS

Alastair’s Choice

Featuring Verdi’s Forza del Destino Overture, Gliere’s Russian Sailors Dance, and Piazzolla’s Tango No. 2, Alastair Willis conducts this morning Coffee Concert, with complimentary coffee and donuts served before the performance. Don’t miss the pre-concert conversation in the concert hall one hour before the performance.

Thu, May 19, 11 am Progress Energy Center for the Arts Mahaffey Theater

Sponsored by:

POPS

ou’ve never seen senior living quite like this!

Conveniently located in a residential area off of Seminole Boulevard on 16th Ave SE in Largo, Barrington Terrace is dedicated to offering quality, state-of-the-art Assisted Living and Memory Care for seniors.

You will find, as others have, that The Terrace Advantage means the best in compassionate care; and this care is what sets them apart from the rest.

Along with the selection of affordable apartments, residents of Barrington Terrace and their families enjoy peace of mind with licensed nurses available 24 hours a day as well as on-site therapy and rehabilitation services. And, if you’re looking for an active lifestyle, they have that too!

After completing the Social Profile interview, their Activities Director will ensure your engagement needs are taken care of. Whether it’s a game of Wii, participating in daily exercise,

Totally Awesome 80s

“After Moving Mom to Barrington Terrace, I Finally Have Peace of Mind”

From the decade that brought us MTV, big hair, and Michael Jackson’s sequin glove, it’s a salute to some of the best-loved pop and rock artists of the 1980s with your orchestra playing music

by Madonna, Michael Jackson, Prince, Chicago, Cyndi Lauper, and more. Sarah Hicks conducts.

May 20 - 22

Angelina Casavecchi and her daughter, Barbara Swenson

Sponsored by:

Brahms’ Violin Concerto

Don’t just take our word..here’s what families are saying: “The staff is very loving and kind. They treat my parents like they are family.”

Acclaimed by The New York Times as “a brilliant violinist,” Augustin Hadelich performs Brahms’ Violin Concerto on a program overflowing with gorgeous music: Berlioz’ Béatrice et Bénédict Overture, Barber’s symphonic prayer Adagio for Strings and Stravinsky’s lyrical Pulcinella Suite.

Larry Rachleff conducts.

“When dining with my mom, it feels like a restaurant. The quality of the food and services are great.”

Join us on April 13th at 6pm to learn how to save $14,000.00 a year towards Assisted Living costs

SEASON FINALE

For more information: call 727.892.3337 or visit www.FloridaOrchestra.org For group savings (10 or more) : 727.362.5443 Senior Connection • April TFO-Senior Connection-Apr.indd 1 2011 • page 12

Barbara Swenson, Largo Loving Family Member

Come Experience the Barrington Terrace Advantage: • Wellness program overseen by a licensed nurse • On-site therapy and rehabilitation • Specialized neighborhood for memory care

MASTERWORKS

May 27 & 28

computer classes or just reading a book in their outside courtyard, they offer something for everyone.

The Evergreen Program provides specialized care in coping with Alzheimer’s and other memory disorders with staff specially trained to understand the progression of memory disorders and to care for those with memory impairments. Evergreen offers an individual plan of care for each resident with structured activities, integrating daily living tasks and engaging residents at all levels. Monthly caregiver support groups are hosted at the community and open to all.

Residents and their families are saying they have “found peace of mind at Barrington Terrace.” Visit or call today and become a Barrington Terrace resident! (727) 588-0020.

Ask them about funding resources!

Respite and day programs also available. Barrington Terrace of Largo: www.bt-largo.com. ALF License #7933

3/7/2011 11:08:32 AM

Call: 727-558-0020

333 16th Ave. S.E., Largo, FL 33771 www.bt-largo.com ASK ABOUT OUR MOVE IN SPECIAL! Assisted Living License #7933

JFW0311

Veterans Corner

Affordable Housing For Senior Citizens

Tampa Woman Remembers Her Black Army Unit’s WWII Job: Sorting Mail

BY JANICE DOYLE

A

Tampa WWII veteran became a staff sergeant sorting mail.

That’s right. In fact she helped sort out two and a half years’ worth of mail—millions of pieces— and get it where it belonged.

Evelyn Johnson was part of the only unit of African Americans in the Women’s Army Corps to serve overseas during World War II, the all-black 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion.

In March, Johnson was a special guest when the Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg hosted “In the Mood,” a concert of music from the 40s.

The 855 women of the 6888th were given the task of sorting through millions of undelivered cards, letters and packages destined for the seven million American troops serving in Europe.

The massive backlogs were piled from floor to ceiling in warehouses and airplane hangars. When they finished in Birmingham, England, they were sent to Rouen, France, where they found millions more pieces to sort.

Led by Major Charity Adams Earley, the first African-American woman officer, the women worked around the clock in three shifts sorting mail. Problems they encountered included poorly labeled mail (things like “Buster Smith, Army, England”) and the constant mobility of the troops—soldiers often were on the way to another location by the time their mail caught up with them.

Johnson said the biggest thing she learned in the military was “to listen!” Like others who have served in the military, training and service differed. She said, “When I crossed the ocean, I was a trained medical clerk. I didn’t know anything about the postal service. But I learned.”

Dressed “to the nines” for her March outing to the Mahaffey, it was easy to believe Johnson when she talked about the uniforms in the 40s. “I love

Creekside Manor I & II

are federally subsidized apartments for persons 62 and above.

Special access apartments are also available.

Studio & 1 Bdrm. Apartments.

Rent is based on income.

Located in a quiet Clearwater neighborhood For appointment Womens Army Corps Veteran, Evelyn Johnson.

fashion,” she said. “My mother saw to it that I wore the right kind of clothes and clothes that would make a statement. When military women came to our town (before she joined the WACs) in their uniforms, I was impressed. They were well tailored and well fitted. I liked them.”

When she returned home to Buffalo, New York, after the war, she found that she was treated well, unlike the experience of many black women from the South. “My mother had taken my letters to the NAACP, my church, my friends. So they knew what I’d been doing.”

Johnson said, “I’m an honorary, charter, lifetime member of the Women in Military Service for America Memorial in Washington.”

She’s also a member of AmVets and the Tampa WAC Veterans group.

After the war, Johnson used the GI Bill to train as a dental hygienist. In the 60s and 70s she was a professional model, at times posing with the Eiffel Tower and other French landmarks as a backdrop. Today, in her 90s, she is still very active. “I go wherever I’m invited. I exercise. I’m always planting or digging in my yard. I do exercises in the house and dance to music on the radio. I’ve gotta keep moving.”

The National Postal Museum offers a brief history of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion on its website: postalmuseum.si.edu.

Call (727) 441-8400

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Senior Connection • April 2011 • page 13

Foundation Supports Parkinson’s Disease Patients and Families

P

arkinson’s Disease is a chronic and progressive brain disorder named after the British physician, James Parkinson, who first accurately described its symptoms in 1817.

Very simply, Parkinson’s is caused by a lack of the chemical messenger dopamine in the movement centers of the brain. Besides a lack of dopamine, PD can be aggravated by genetic factors, exposure to pesticides or industrial toxins and the process of aging itself.

Health The four primary symptoms of Parkinson’s are tremor or trembling in hands, arms, legs, jaw and face; rigidity or stiffness of the limbs and trunk; bradykinesia, or slowness of movement; and postural instability or impaired balance and coordination. Patients may also have difficulty walking, talking or completing other simple tasks.

The disease is both chronic and progressive. Parkinson’s is not usually inherited.

Early symptoms are subtle and occur gradually.

Typically symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease begin on only one side of the body, although later they appear on both sides. Often the patient manifests slowness and difficulty of movement at first, then perhaps notices tremors in his hand when it is relaxed but which go away when he moves.

Amanda Smith, Creative Director of the Parkinson Research Foundation in Sarasota, notes that there is no cure for the disease which affects as many as a million people in the U.S at this time.

The newest method of treating the symptoms of Parkinson’s is DBS or Deep Brain Stimulation. This is a

surgically implanted, battery-operated medical device called a neurostimulator—similar to a heart pacemaker and approximately the size of a stopwatch—that delivers electrical stimulation to targeted areas in the brain that control movement, blocking the abnormal nerve signals that cause tremor and PD symptoms.

The Foundation works to improve the quality of life for patients with Parkinson’s Disease. Smith says, “What sets us apart from other Parkinson’s Disease organizations is that we provide tools and resources for our patients who live with the disease. Michael J. Fox gives the disease a lot of exposure, but we work to help the patients.”

The Foundation sponsors two cruises a year for patients and their

families and/or caregivers. Smith says, “We take experts in the field like neurologists and we invite patients and families. The best part is to see patients who when they have a tremor in the grocery store might be looked at funny, but on our first cruise we had 125 patients so when they all had a tremor no one even noticed. We see them come alive.”

Presentations at sea, classes like yoga and voice aerobics, caregiver sessions and doctor availability make it a unique experience. Smith says, “It’s a strictly physical disorder and the mind is not affected. So they have great spirits and are eager to learn. We love providing them with a unique way to have access.”

One Parkinson’s patient who thought his traveling days were over, said, “This cruise has given me back hope for the future.”

Parkinson Research Foundation information at (941) 870-4438 or online at parkinsonresearchfoundation.org.

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Senior Connection • April 2011 • page 14

Save Your Sight!

ASK ABOUT OUR NEW DNA TESTING FOR MACULAR DEGENERATION Join Us For A Complimentary Educational Event for People Living with Diabetes April 13 and May 15 Call 727-738-5900 for more information.

Full Service Diabetic & Senior Eye Care

Visit our Designer Optical Boutique for all budgets at the New Port Richey location

Three Locations to Serve Your Vision Needs

1. Clearwater/Dunedin

Dr. James P. Powers Medical Director & Co-Founder Board Certified Ophthalmologist Vitreoretinal Surgeon

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CALL TODAY! 727-738-5900 Live A Healthy Life With Healthy Vision

New Test For Macular Degeneration Risk More April

A

s most baby boomers know, the aging population of Americans only continues to increase—and rapidly. A large aging population proposes many implications for the state of healthcare in America, as more and more seniors begin to face the same health problems, including legal blindness. The leading cause of blindness in Americans over 55 years of age is age-related macular degeneration (AMD) which currently affects over 9.1 million people in the U.S. alone. AMD is a degenerative eye disease that is caused when the retina, the interior of the eye, begins to deteriorate, leading to a loss in detailed vision and often progressing to legal blindness.

Overall life expectancy continues to rise and baby boomers continue to age. As a result, the number of people with age-related macular degeneration is expected to increase from the current figure of 9.1 million to almost 20 million by 2020.

The Macular Degeneration Association (MDA), a non-profit health organization dedicated to providing AMD patient education, recognizes AMD’s potential to become a major health problem in the very near future.

MDA is passionate about funding and developing sophisticated patient education programs designed to improve macular patients’ quality of life. In addition to educating current AMD patients, MDA is now committed to educating the senior population at large by providing access to cuttingedge genetic testing technology.

Until recently, no test existed to help determine a patient’s inherited risk for AMD. Macula Risk (ArcticDX, Toronto, Ontario) is a genetic test specifically designed to determine genetic predisposition to AMD and vision loss attributed to the more advanced stage of the disease.

Macula Risk genetic test separates individuals into one of five macula risk (MR) categories, with MR 3 through

5 representing an increased risk for the more advance stage of the disease.

This accounts for approximately 20 percent of the general population.

MDA’s recent partnership with Eye Solutions makes the genetic test available to seniors at any of the MDA patient education events.

This test provides a genetic profile screening to help identify those at risk and aids in tailoring a distinct management approach for those with AMD. With various researchers devoted to advancing treatment options for AMD, genetic testing is at the frontier of macular science.

The Macular Degeneration Association recently partnered with Senior Connection and Mature Lifestyles Magazine to present a series of educational seminars in conjunction with ongoing Senior Fun Fests! For more information about these events, please contact Danielle Auger at (941) 870-4399 or e-mail info@ maculardegenerationassociation.org.

Meetings

19

Alzheimer’s Family Support Group at Claude Pepper Senior Center, 6640 Van Buren St., New Port Richey. For more information, call (727) 844-3077.

23

Bay Area Button Society at Safety Harbor Library at 1 p.m. (4th Saturdays) 25 (4th Mondays) at Pinellas Park Library.

9 a.m. Please call (727) 581-7068 for details.

25

Democratic Women at Golden Coral, 10050 Ulmerton Rd., Largo. Wendy Grassi of Planned Parenthood is speaker.

11:30 a.m. Questions: please call (727) 581-4630.

Senior Connection • April 2011 • page 15

Help Centers and Support Groups Featured Organizations

Provides educational materials and free unbiased insurance counSHINE seling to Florida elders, caregivers and family members. 1-800-963-5337. rea Agency on Aging of Pasco-Pinellas, Inc. Volunteers and A professionals work closely with seniors, families and caregivers to locate the services they need. 9887 4th Street N., Suite 100, St. Petersburg. (727) 570-9696.

✦ Free 24 Hour Front Desk Coverage ✦ Free Scheduled Shuttle Bus Service ✦ Non Evacuation Zone

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We will be glad to take you for a tour of our Beautiful Property.

on Wheels Volunteers deliver hot, nutritious meals daily to homeMeals bound seniors. 1-800-368-2411 x 3341.

ARES Home care, adult day services, senior activities and more. Rao C Musunuru, M.D., Enrichment Center, 12417 Clock Tower Parkway, Hudson. 1-888-718-2110.

☎ 727-347-5191

Support Groups

250 58th Street N. St. Petersburg, Florida 33710 www.philipbenjamintower.org

EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY

irst Tuesdays Free blood pressure screenings until 2 p.m. at St. Anthony’s Finformation, Hospital East Lobby. 1200 7th Avenue North, St. Petersburg. For more call (727) 825-1100.

T

hird Tuesdays Alzheimer’s Support Groups. 1:30 p.m. at the Claude Pepper Senior Center, 6640 Van Buren St, New Port Richey. For details, call (727) 844-3077. Third Thursdays at 2 p.m. at The Residence at Timber Pines, 3140 Forest Rd., Spring Hill. (727) 992-1358.

Q

: What is the difference between Social Security disability and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) disability?

A: The Social Security Administra-

tion runs two major programs that provide benefits based on disability: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and SSI. SSDI is financed with Social Security taxes paid by workers, employers and selfemployed persons. To be eligible for a Social Security benefit, the worker must earn sufficient credits based on taxable work to be “insured” for Social Security purposes. Disability benefits are payable to blind or disabled workers, survivors or adults disabled since childhood who are otherwise eligible. The amount

Senior Connection • April 2011 • page 16

of the monthly disability benefit is based on the Social Security earnings record of the insured worker.

SSI is a needs-based program financed through general revenues.

SSI disability benefits are payable to adults or children who are disabled or blind, have limited income and resources, meet the living arrangement requirements and are otherwise eligible. The monthly payment varies up to the maximum federal benefit rate, which may be supplemented by the State or decreased by countable income and resources.

To learn more about SSDI and SSI disability benefits, visit socialsecurity.gov and click the links along the top of the page for Disability and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

Tuesdays Parkinson’s Support Group. 12 p.m. at The Palms of Largo, Third 400 Lake Avenue NE, Largo. (727) 437-1600.

Thursdays and Saturdays Adult Low-Impact Aerobics. $6/ TLakesuesdays, class. Tues. and Thurs. from 7 – 8 p.m. Sat. from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Land O’ Recreation Complex, 3032 Collier Parkway, Land O’ Lakes. (813) 929-1220. ednesdays Cancer Support Group at Bay Pines Medical Center, W 10000 Bay Pines Boulevard, Bay Pines. 12:30 – 2 p.m. (727) 398-6661 ext. 5204. ednesdays Mental Health Support Group. Community Hospital, 5637 W Marine Parkway, New Port Richey. Resource Room. 7 to 8:30 p.m. Call (727) 992-9653.

S

econd Thursdays Caregiver Coffee. Encouragement, information and helpful hints. Reservations not needed; coffee breaks are free. Conference Room 2 at N. Pinellas Community Service Ctr., 2675 Tampa Rd. (S.R. 584), Palm Harbor. 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. (727) 523-3435. onthly Diabetes Classes. Discuss nutrition and health issues related to M managing diabetes. Pasco Regional Medical Center, Medical Plaza I, Suite 107, off State Road 52, Dade City. Call (352) 521-1100 for dates/times.

Long-Term Care and the New Health Care Law

BY RON POLLACK, Executive Director, Families USA

I

f you’re doing some financial planning, you will want to include long-term care needs you or your spouse might have in the future. You also need to consider the new Affordable Care Act—the new health care law signed into law in 2010.

Retirement Living Long-term care is expensive and Medicare does not cover the costs.

And there are other reasons to plan ahead, to learn about your options for care before you need help. That way, if you need care suddenly, you and your family won’t have to scramble. Equally important, you won’t end up in a nursing home just because no one knew alternatives were available.

Long-term care isn’t only about nursing homes. There are many options for care and support that can help you stay at home longer or even avoid a nursing home altogether. The “home- and community-based services” that can help you stay at home range from homemaker help, such as help preparing meals, to care provided by health professionals like nurses, and a lot in between: personal attendants can help you with daily activities and adult day services and respite services can give family caregivers a needed rest. You may want training to learn new skills if, for example, you start having vision trouble, or perhaps home modifications can help you get around your house better so you can keep living at home.

What services are available will depend on where you live. Many seniors rely on state programs, like Medicaid, for their care. In states whose Medicaid programs invest more on home- and community-based services, there are generally more of these services available

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program, Community Living Assistance Services and Supports (CLASS), that will help pay for care. CLASS will be available to working adults, The Affordable Care Act The good news is that the Affordable regardless of age or health, probably in 2013. To be eligible for benefits, Care Act-the new health care law-includes several new programs that will you’ll first need to be enrolled for five help people who need long-term care years. After that, if you need long-term care, the program will provide an stay at home longer. New programs average benefit of at least $50 a day will give states financial incentives to expand the home- and community- ($18,250 a year), adjusted for inflation. based services they offer. Educational You can use that money to pay for assistance or other things you need grants will ensure that there is an to help you stay in your home. The adequate, and adequately trained, program pays as long as you need care. workforce to provide home care as You still need to do your homethe population ages. Starting in 2014, work – plan your finances and learn the spouse of someone receiving what’s available where you live. care at home will be protected from having to spend all the couple’s assets The Administration on Aging’s ElderCare Locator, at 1-800-677in order for their husband or wife 1116 or eldercare.gov, can help you to qualify for Medicaid; today, that find services in your community. protection exists only if the person You can learn more about the new opneeding care is in a nursing home. tions in the long-term services section of The law also includes a new volunFamilies USA’s website, familiesusa.org. tary federal long-term care insurance for everyone-even for people who don’t use Medicaid.

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• Close to beaches • Grocery store within walking distance • On the busline • Close to medical facilities Visit: http://prospect.presidioproperty.com • On Site Wellness Center • Tiled bathrooms with heat lamps, ceramic tile recess, grab bars • All maintenance is paid by the property and completed promptly • Lighted parking on site • Exterior windows open for fresh air • Small pets welcome • Subsidized TV cable.

Senior Connection • April 2011 • page 17

Discover The Springs South Pasadena’s Hidden Treasure

Welcome to The Springs at Boca Ciega Bay, located in beautiful South Pasadena on the campus of The Fountains at Boca Ciega Bay. We’re not your typical skilled nursing facility.

We are a 109 bed Medicare certified Rehab Center offering a variety of health care services: • Skilled Nursing • Wound Care • Social Services • Full scale beauty salon • Individualized activities • State-of-the-art Rehab.

We offer Customized Rehab programs 7 days a week both in-patient and out-patient including Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy.

We specialize in: • Orthopedic • Stroke/Neuro • Cardiac programs by utilizing state-of-the-art equipment including Anodyne therapy and Natilus equipment, just to name a few.

We make admissions easy! We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our experienced and licensed Nurse Liaison, Catresa Bowie, will meet you at hospital bedside or in your home.

If you have a surgery planned, why not come in for a tour and take the mystery out of the admission process. Call Catresa Bowie at (727) 599-1390.

The Springs At Boca Ciega Bay 1255 Pasadena Ave. St. Petersburg, FL 33707

(727) 828-3500

Senior Connection • April 2011 • page 18

Type 2 Diabetes: From Old Dogmas to New Realities

for blood pressure and C for cholesterol. Three quarters of people with diabetes have high blood pressure. any old dogmas about type 2 diabetes prevail even though Old Dogma: recent research has led to new Losing weight will always rapidly understandings and treatment options. control blood glucose. The dogma The new reality? Take action early people hear from their providers and often. Don’t delay; don’t deny. that, if you’d only lose weight, your Here are four old dogmas dispelled blood glucose would be lower. and the new realities explained: New Reality: Old Dogma: Research shows that the greatest imType 2 isn’t the serious kind of pact of weight loss on blood glucose diabetes. Typically diagnosed later is in the first few years after diagnosis. in life, people just need to follow a In fact, the biggest bang per pound is healthy eating plan, lose a few in the prediabetes phase (when most pounds and perhaps over the years, people don’t know they have prediabethey’ll need a “diabetes pill.” tes). With loss of 5 – 7 percent of body weight and 150 minutes of physical New Reality: Recent research underscores that type activity, research has shown people can prevent or delay the progression to 2 is a progressive disease and the progression is typically kicked off nearly a type 2. Once insulin production is on its dwindling course, weight loss will decade before diagnosis. Insulin resistance due to excess weight mixed with have less impact on glucose control. a positive family history is the common The reality is that if blood glucose is out of control, it’s time for medication. culprit. By the time of diagnosis, most people have already lost half to Old Dogma: three quarters of their insulin-making People with type 2 diabetes must pancreatic beta cells. Expert guidelines follow a low carbohydrate diet. now recommend starting individuals New Reality: on a medication to treat the insulin Nutrition recommendations for resistance right out of the starting gate. people with type 2 diabetes from It’s now known that insulin production the American Diabetes Association will dwindle further over time. Most and other health authorities echo people will need a progression of the recently unveiled U.S. 2010 blood glucose-lowering medicines over Dietary Guidelines for carbohydrate the years. The good news: research consumption: about 45 to 65 shows early, aggressive management percent of our daily calories should to control blood glucose can slow this come from carbohydrates. progression. Healthy eating, losing To get and stay healthy with a few pounds and being physically type 2 diabetes means facing active will always offer an assist. the diagnosis promptly, taking Old Dogma: action immediately and continuBlood glucose control is goal number one. ously tracking and controlling blood glucose, blood pressure and blood New Reality: cholesterol. Don’t delay; don’t deny.

Having type 2 diabetes, it is said, Hope Warshaw, a registered dietitian carries a risk factor equivalent to and certified diabetes educator, is the having had a heart attack or stroke. best-selling author of eight books inThe most common complications cluding Diabetes Meal Planning Made of type 2 are heart and blood vessel Easy, Real Life Guide to Diabetes and diseases, not eye or kidney disease, Guide to Healthy Restaurant Eating. as is often thought. Focus squarely on Learn more at hopewarshaw.com. the ABCs: A for glucose control, B

BY HOPE WARSHAW

M

Treating Leaky Bladders Can Help Improve Women’s Health

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illions of women suffer from stress urinary incontinence (SUI), the leakage of urine when laughing, coughing or other activities. What many don’t realize is that SUI isn’t just an annoyance—it’s a medical condition that, untreated, can have serious consequences.

Isolation, anxiety, and depression are some of the many health risks that can be associated with SUI. The condition can also limit a person’s participation in enjoyable activities. Leaky bladders make exercising difficult, which can lead to weight gain. Wet skin due to constant leakage may be associated with skin rashes and infections. SUI can also increase the risk of urinary tract infections.

The health impact of SUI is often great enough that effective treatment can make a real difference. Sometimes, special exercises/lifestyle changes are suggested, but these options may not be enough.

And many women don’t want the risks/ long recovery time associated with surgery. A new non-surgical treatment called Renessa® may be an option.

With Renessa, a small device is inserted into the urethra to gently heat small areas of tissue at the base of the bladder. This heating causes natural collagen in the tissue to become firmer, which can decrease leaks. Treatment can be performed in a doctor’s office in about an hour, and women can safely resume activities the same or next day. Treatment effect is typically seen within 60 to 90 days. Overall, about 75 percent of patients are improved.

“My patients have been very happy with the treatment,” said Dr. David Jacob, a local physician. “Their symptoms are improved and they are able to return to their busy lives quickly.”

Side effects of Renessa are typically mild and temporary and most resolve shortly after treatment. “The Renessa treatment changed my life,” said Evelyn R*, a 67-year-old Tampa resident. “Don’t wait. Get treated.”

For info, visit www.Renessa.com or call Dr. David Jacob at (727) 248-0671. *Patient names have been changed.

“I had my leaky bladder treated in a doctor’s office ...without surgery.”

Treatment in the doctor’s office in about an hour.

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Risks: Adverse events (complications) are typically mild and temporary and most resolve shortly after treatment. Reported complications include dysuria (discomfort during urination), hematuria (blood-tinged urine), urinary tract infection, and urine retention (inability to empty the bladder). Infrequently, worsening incontinence symptoms have been reported.

Volunteers Needed To Help Feed The Hungry V

olunteers are needed to deliver hot, nutritious meals to the homebound in the Clearwater area. If you have 1 and 1/2 hours, midday, to help in your own neighborhood, you could make a real difference in someone’s life. Currently, we have a desperate need for volunteers to deliver in the Clearwater area. Meals are picked

up at Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Neighborhood Family Center (1201 Douglas Ave, Clearwater) and delivered to the homebound in that area (maps and directions are provided).

Please call Pat Hazell from Neighborly Meals on Wheels at (727) 573-9444, ext. 4190 to start helping your community today.

Senior Connection • April 2011 • page 19

Medicare Answers D ear Marci, My sister and both of my parents have had glaucoma, and my doctor thinks I should get screened. Will Medicare pay for it? —Clayton

Dear Clayton, Yes. Medicare covers 80 percent of the cost of an annual (every 12 months) glaucoma screening if you are at high risk for glaucoma, after you pay your annual Part B deductible. The screening must be performed or supervised by an eye doctor who is licensed to provide this service in your state.

If you are in a Medicare private health plan, you should contact your plan to see what rules and costs apply.

In addition to people with a family history of glaucoma, those at high risk for the disease include people with diabetes or high blood pressure, African-Americans age 50 and older and

“ATTENTION: Seniors With Retirement Savings!”

“Retirees Make These Mistakes, Losing Thousands Of Dollars!”

A nationally known financial expert says many seniors who have savings accounts make these mistakes, costing themselves and their families thousands of dollars! They risk their retirement security, increasing the chance they could outlive their money. This is true whether they handle retirement savings themselves, or with help from a professional!

Visit our website at: www.srmagazine.com HEALTH • FINANCE TRAVEL • EVENTS CALL 1-888-670-0040 for more information Senior Connection • April 2011 • page 20

Are YOU needlessly losing thousands of dollars? Find out NOW, by getting this eye opening FREE report that reveals retirement savings secrets that banks and insurance companies don’t want you to know!

Call toll free, 800-507-1409, 24 hours a day for a FREE recorded message and get this report. CALL NOW, before it’s too late!

Hispanic-Americans age 65 and older.

—Marci Marci’s Medicare Answers is a service of the Medicare Rights Center (www.medicarerights.org), the nation’s largest independent source of information and assistance for people with Medicare. To speak with a counselor, call (800) 333-4114.

To subscribe to “Dear Marci,” the Medicare Rights Center’s free educational e-newsletter, simply e-mail dearmarci@medicarerights.org.

Healthcare is Not Cheap!

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nsurers and consumers spent $52.2 billion on prescription drugs in 2008 for outpatient treatment of metabolic conditions such as diabetes and elevated cholesterol, according to the latest News and Numbers from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). Metabolic medicines were the class of drugs with the highest level of spending in 2008.

According to data from the federal agency, purchases of metabolic drugs by adults age 18 and older accounted for 22 percent of the nearly $233 billion spent overall to buy prescription medicines in 2008.

Ranked by total spending, here are the four remaining top therapeutic classes of outpatient prescription drugs in 2008:

• Central nervous system drugs, used to relieve chronic pain and control epileptic seizures and Parkinson’s Disease tremors —$35 billion.

• Cardiovascular drugs, including calcium channel blockers and diuretics—$29 billion.

• Antacids, antidiarrheals and other medicines for gastrointestinal conditions—$20 billion.

• Antidepressants, antipsychotics and other psychotherapeutic drugs —$20 billion.

Overall purchases of these five therapeutic classes of drugs totaled nearly $156 billion, or two-thirds of the almost $233 billion that was spent on prescription medicines used in the outpatient treatment of adults. (From Newswise)

Quick Facts About Aging

Walk Faster, Live Longer he speed at which you walk could determine how long you live, says a new study conducted at the University of Pittsburgh. Researchers looked at nine studies of 35,000 seniors and discovered that just 19 percent of the slowest 75-year-old male walkers lived 10 more years, compared to 87 percent of the fastest walkers. For women, the figure was 35 percent of the slowest walkers versus 91 percent of the quickest. The study results may lead some physicians to incorporate walking speed into a routine assessment since it can provide many clues about vitality. (“Your Walking Speed May Predict Your Life Span” The Boston Globe)

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Working in Retirement As the New Normal Today, one in five workers age 50+ has retired from a previous career and has what is aptly called a “retirement job.”

A report released by the Families and Work Institute in 2010 found that working in retirement is a new career stage.

The majority of working retirees are full-time and enjoy what they do and 75 percent plan to keep working. The motivating factor was not necessarily the money, but rather making a contribution, being productive and keeping active. (“Working in Retirement: A 21st Century Phenomenon” Families and Work Institute) An Aging Population Prefers to Age in Place Older adults who wish to remain in their homes as they age are getting help from senior “villages” which are cropping up around the country. With 55 existing and another 120 planned, these communities provide their mem-

bers with medical, shopping, social services and activities. These villages are aimed at keeping people in their homes into their 70s, 80s, and possibly 90s. By 2020, the 55+ age American households are expected to reach 45 percent. (“Senior Villages Take Root As Movement Matures” usnews.com)

Beatitudes Nursing Home: A Blessing for Alzheimer’s Patients There is no effective medical treatment for dementia, but at the Beatitudes Nursing Home in Phoenix, Arizona, the Alzheimer’s patients receive a good dose of unconventional, nonpharmaceutical care that calms them and can even make them smile. This seemingly revolutionary caregiving solution is giving them what they want. New research suggests that positive emotional experiences can diminish stress and behavior problems.

The nursing home allows patients to eat what they want when they want it, take baths in the middle of the night and engage in activities that they did before they became ill. (“Giving Alzheimer’s Patients Their Way, Even Doses of Chocolate” The New York Times, Jan. 1, 2011)

Still Collecting a Paycheck in Her 90s Five hours a day, 98-year-old Rosa Finnegan reports for work on the production floor of a manufacturing company, Vita Needle in Needham, Massachusetts, where close to half of the employees are well past retirement age. Rosa says she didn’t expect she’d need a paycheck at this stage of life, but after becoming a widow in her 80s, she needed a new life plan. Along with her paycheck, working at Vita Needle has given her a new sense of community. (“In Their 90s, Working for More Than Just a Paycheck” NPR “Morning Edition) “Quick Facts About Aging” is from Met Life Mature Market Institute.

Senior Connection • April 2011 • page 21

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Choose Healthy Snacks F

oods with a high glycemic index are digested more quickly than foods with a low glycemic index. Rapidly digested foods can flood your bloodstream with sugar. A quick surge of insulin to clear the sugar can leave your blood sugar too low after just a few hours, and when this happens you feel hungry; you’re apt to overeat and possibly gain weight. Fiber slows digestion and therefore lowers a food’s glycemic load.

By increasing the bulk of foods and creating a feeling of fullness, fiber may also help you avoid overeating and becoming overweight.

Snacking and eating healthfully needn’t be mutually exclusive. There are plenty of healthy foods that are quick and easy to eat such as fruits, veggie sticks and moderate amounts of nuts. Because typical snack foods like Senior Connection • April 2011 • page 22

chips, candy and crackers have a high glycemic load, these foods won’t keep you feeling sated for very long. So you run the risk of overeating.

Here are some tips for choosing foods with a low glycemic load: • Look for non-starchy, non-sugary foods like raw vegetable sticks, bean dips and fruits such as apples, pears, peaches and berries.

• Low-fat yogurt is another good snack choice, but avoid yogurt with “fruit on the bottom,” which is basically sugar syrup. Add your own fruit instead.

• When choosing grain-based snacks, look for whole-wheat crackers and natural granola.

Think before you choose a snack and stay healthy.

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n 2008 the Taco Bell Fresco line (freshness) made the “run for the border” eating place a favorite for those wanting fast food without high calories.

The book Eat This, Not That by David Zinczenko says, “After all these years, the Taco Bell warhorse, the hard-shell taco, is still the best option on the menu, especially now that it’s available Fresco-style.” The hard-shell variety weighs in at 450 calories for three tacos, 21g fat and 750 mg sodium. A close runner-up is the Fresco Ranchero Chicken Soft Tacos at 340 calories, 8g fat and 1,480 mg sodium.

Running just a few more calories but less sodium is the half pound Beef Combo Burrito, and the lowest calorie menu item to fill you up is the Steak Gordito Supreme (just 290 calories, 13g fat and 55 mg sodium).

Other good menu choices for those counting calories, fat and sodium

include the following: Nacho Cheese Chicken Gordita and a Soft Chicken Taco (500 calories); two Fresco Rachero Chicken Soft Tacos (340 calories); the Pintos ‘n Cheese (180 calories).

The danger at any restaurant—fast food or not—are the sauces and dressings. Avoid them if you can.

For example, at Taco Bell, the Zesty Dressing on the Border Bowl can be replaced by an extra dose of salsa to save a whopping 240 calories. Do it!

At Taco Bell, the secret is to skip the nachos, which are deep-fried tortilla chips, taco meat and a covering of nacho cheese sauce.

The problems lie in the fried chips, of course, but also in the fact that their cheese sauce is made with partially hydrogenated oil. Skip it!

Taco Bell is quite a good place to enjoy fast food if you stick to the twoitem combos, which are usually below 600 calories and 25 grams of fat.

The Centenarian Will Serve You Now

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etirees make up the majority of volunteers at Meals on Wheels, a nationwide program that serves close to one million Americans. In Orange County, Florida, an organization called Seniors First counts on 350 delivery people, most of whom are in their mid 60s.

One retired Florida volunteer, Irene Johnston, with a keen memory and passion for helping others has been helping out for years. Only her age sets her apart from most other volunteers. She is 100 years old.

From Orlando Sentinel, January 24, 2011.

Senior Fun Fest, St. Pete Coliseum Lots of great photos were sent to Senior Connection magazine for the latest Grandkids Are The Greatest Photo Contest. Check out the winners that were selected at the Senior Fun Fest last month. The judges had a lot of fun looking through all of the photos and it was tough to pick the winners. Thanks to everyone who shared their memories with us!

Grand Prize

“Who’s The Guy?” Submitted by Dorothy Bouchard.

She won $100!

First Prize

“Happy Kid” Submitted by Roland Dumaine.

He won $75!

Second Prize

“I Love Elmo” Submitted by Geraldine Short.

She won $50!

Third Prize

“Me and My Best Friend” Submitted by Tom Moran.

He won $25!

Senior Connection • April 2011 • page 23

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Investing In An Aging World

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 • April 2011 • page 24

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n the majority of the world’s countries, people are having fewer children and they are living longer. Even in the least-developed parts of the world, for the past 20 years fertility rates have been steadily declining while life expectancies have been on the rise. Although the financial markets are influenced by many forces, especially over short time periods, demographic forces can have a powerful pull on long-term market performance.

Understanding how the three trends below may influence the performance of various investments may help you maximize your portfolio.

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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.

BY JEFFREY SEWARD, JD, Ph.D Senior Vice President, Trust Services M&I Wealth Management

Trend 1: More people around the world are in their prime earning years.

Right now, the world median age is about 29, though it’s close to 40 in developed countries1. Middle-aged people in their prime earning years are more inclined to save than the young or old.

Result: A large and growing number of people are socking away money for retirement. As populations age, the supply of capital is likely to continue to grow, helping tamp down interest rates and support prices of financial assets.

What you can do: You may find it challenging to earn acceptable returns in a low interest rate environment.

Step up your savings while you can in the highest-yielding investments with which you’re comfortable.

Trend 2: People are living longer.

The average life expectancy worldwide now stands at almost 68 years. In developed regions, it’s about 77 years.

Result: Many people are postponing retirement and working longer. That, along with shaky public pension and healthcare programs, may motivate people to seek investments that retain the buying power of their money over time, even if it means taking on greater risk.

What you can do: Despite the poor performance of the past decade, equities have historically outpaced inflation more consistently than other investments. There’s a strong case for maintaining a portion of your assets in equities, even after retirement.

Trend 3: The retiree segment is growing.

Not only is the world getting older, but the population of older persons is itself aging. Among those 60 years or over, the fastest-growing segment is age 80 and over.

Result: Most people have an innate desire to minimize risk, and that tends to grow more acute in retirement when they start utilizing their savings and investments to maintain their lifestyles. A secular shift toward greater risk aversion would likely favor bonds over stocks.

What you can do: Diversification and innovation are likely to become more important in coming years.

Consider balancing your stock/bond portfolio with investment products that provide guaranteed income.

While it’s good to be aware of the demographic trends that may affect the markets, don’t let them dictate your plan. Stay focused on your objectives and work with a financial professional to identify strategies most likely to help you achieve your personal financial goals.

The source for the statistics cited in this article is the United Nations World Population Database.

This article provides insights from M&I Wealth Management that may be useful to you in assessing risks and opportunities in the current environment related to your financial and wealth planning needs. The information contained herein should not be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice, and readers are encouraged to consult their tax, legal and investment professionals with specific questions applicable to their own financial situations. Past performance is not necessarily a guide to future performance.

1

Senior Job Seekers…Your Age Is An Asset

BY DR. JOHN DRAKE

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inding a job in today’s economy is tough; it’s even tougher for the 50+ crowd. While age discrimination is illegal, younger job competitors outnumber us and often are favored.

Like it or not, age bias is prevalent in the job marketplace.

The good news is that seniors have assets that younger job seekers often lack: broad work experience, maturity, strong work ethic and often a history of company loyalty. Seniors also bring stability to the job.

“If seniors don’t let their age trip them up, most of them can make a FPGM_55882_41066_10x4.75:FPGM-55882_10x4.75 good case for being hired,” says John Drake, co-author of Finding A Job When Jobs Are Hard To Find. Here are some actions you can take to reduce age bias:

1. Overtly display energy and vitality.

You will need to back up statements about your energy level by mentioning (in cover letters, applications and resumes) your participation in activities such as the sports you play, gym workouts, volunteer work. During job interviews, weave in comments about your activities and ability to work long hours (if that is true about you).

Look vital. Sit erect and, without being “gushy,” express enthusiasm and excitement about the job in question and about the organization. For example: “I am really excited about the challenges this job offers” or “I can’t wait to get started on a project like that.”

Practice in front of a mirror creating a more positive image by smiling more often and emphasizing thoughts via use of hand gestures.

2. Become computer/electronics with MS Word and Excel. If not, take a few computer classes. If you don’t have one, get a smart phone. Be conversant

3/24/11 AM be Page 1 savvy. You8:43 should at ease

about popular apps and be skillful in using them. You don’t want to appear to be rooted in outdated technology.

3. Don’t draw attention to your age. Be careful about numbers used in resumes, applications and during job interviews.

Specifically: Don’t provide the years of your graduations, list only jobs from the past 15 – 20 years and try to avoid providing your driver’s license number.

4. Capitalize on your contacts. By far, the biggest slice of your job searching time should be spent on networking.

5. Psychologically prepare for your interview. Your interviewers will often be significantly younger than you and may come across as disrespectful of your age and/or achievements. By expecting such behavior and gearing yourself to “go with the flow,” you will be able to minimize any defensive responses.

6. Overcoming the “generation gap.” An issue of concern for many interviewers is your ability to fit in

with a much younger work group. You can counter this concern by subtly weaving into the interview how you are in touch with current lifestyles via your high school/college age children, your participation in groups comprised of younger members—civic, church, etc. and situations in which you successfully adapted to a quickly changing job demand or environment.

The bottom line is that by making your job search your full time job and by thinking positively about your age and maturity, you can get ahead of the pack. Keep in mind that your age is not a handicap but rather an asset that brings with it strengths that younger candidates cannot offer.

Author John Drake was CEO of the world’s largest outplacement firm and is co-author of “Finding a Job When Jobs are Hard to Find.” Dr. Drake is also author of the best selling “The Perfect Interview: How to Win the Job You Really Want.” Copyrighted 2011

by John D. Drake. All rights reserved.

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lens provides 2.5X plus variable magnification, to easily cover an entire page without glare or hot spots. The ultra-flexible gooseneck positions the lens exactly where you need it, and unlike that magnifier in the drawer, you’ll always know where this one is.

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Senior Connection • April 2011 • page 25

Summer in the Berkshires?

How refreshing.

Welcome to Jiminy Peak, the 4-season resort in the Northern Berkshires of Massachusetts.

Each summer, we host lots of people who are looking for a great New England summer vacation. We offer short or long-term lodging – including 2-4 bedroom condos. The Berkshires is home to world class arts & culture, history, outdoor adventures and more. It’s more than a breath of fresh air. It’s a whole summer of it.

Call us at 1-800-882-8859 or go to jiminypeak.com

Fishermen’s Village Presents JP040 MatureLifestyle_qtrSQ.indd 1

Rachmaninoff to Rockin’ Latin Dance Rhythms

A

t the next morning Coffee Concert, Alastair Willis conducts The Florida Orchestra in a “A Musical Tour of Vienna” featuring Principal Clarinetist Brian Moorhead performing highlights from Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto. The program also includes such Johann Strauss, Jr. favorites as Tales from the Vienna Woods and music by Beethoven, Gluck, Suppé and Brahms. Enjoy a pre-concert talk one hour before curtain time, complimentary coffee and Krispy Kreme doughnuts prior to the concert and commentary about the music throughout the performance. April 6 at 10 a.m. at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater, and April 7 at 11 a.m. at Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg.

The Raymond James Pops offers a sizzling salute to New York’s famed hot spot The Copacabana: “Hot! Hot! Hot! A Night at the Copa.”

Featuring award-winning ballroom dancers Andrzej and Jennifer Przybyl,

Grammy Award-winning arranger Victor Vanacore and the orchestra will heat up the hall in a night of Latin dance rhythms. In the lobby prior to the concerts, dancers from the Fred Astaire Studios will be sharing fancy footwork for a variety of Latin dances. April 8, 9 and 10 in Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater.

At the next Masterworks concert, the orchestra and Music Director Stefan Sanderling are joined by Russian pianist Lilya Zilberstein in Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 3 and the music of Finnish composer Jean Sibelius—En Saga and his Symphony No. 7. To find out more about the composers and stories behind the music, join Stefan Sanderling in the concert hall one hour before curtain time for a pre-concert conversation.

April 15, 16 and 17 in Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater.

For tickets and info, call 1-800-6627286 or visit floridaorchestra.org.

12/21/10 5:30 PM

3rd Annual Southwest Florida

Bridal Show & Expo Free Admission!

Brides Can Register: In Person at

Sunday, April 10th, 2011 12 noon – 5:00 p.m.

Charlotte Bridal

Located in Bell Plaza 2395 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte

Or Online at

CharlotteBridal.biz

Brides-To-Be Renewal of Vows Second Time Around Visit Us Online at www.FishVille.com Or Call 941.639.8721 Join Us At Fishermen’s Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, FL 33950 Senior Connection • April 2011 • page 26

FEATURING: Informal Modeling by Shops At Fishermen’s Village and Charlotte Bridal Boutique Visit With Experts In The Bridal Industry Catering Service, Photography, Makeup, Invitations, Decorations, Music & More!

Event Sponsors: Fishermen’s Village Charlotte Bridal Boutique & Formal Wear LarGlo Travel & Cruises itravel4less.biz Do-All Rental

Join the official Seniors Fan Club of the Tampa Bay Rays for only Season Ticket Holder Price $15 (excludes ticket vouchers)

$25!

All Rays fans 55 and older can join the Golden Rays and receive:

• Official Golden Rays T-Shirt • Official Golden Rays Tote Bag • Golden Rays Membership Card • Coupons for merchandise and concession items • Invitations to exclusive Golden Rays events • Special offer for discounted tickets for select Rays home games • Get 2 ticket vouchers to use for your choice of the games listed:

G R GR

One ticket for voucher #1

One ticket for voucher #2

April 21 vs. CWS

May 3 vs. TOR

June 27 vs. CIN

August 9 vs. KC

August 22 vs. DET

August 24 vs. DET

Adventure Awaits!

BY DAVE KELLY

D

oes a visit to the Orlando area conjure up visions of princesses, castles, and a mouse with big ears? Disney is a wonderful destination, but what if you are just a little more adventurous? What if you like a little more “zip” in your vacation?

As it turns out, Orlando and the Orange County area are STILL the best places to go! Over the past few years, a number of local attractions have arisen in the area, and they offer some great outdoor fun. So we packed our bags, laced up our tennis shoes and headed out to find adventure.

We started with an experience that’s traditionally Florida. As we pulled in to Boggy Creek Airboat Rides in Kissimmee, Lake Tohopekaliga gleamed in the summer sun like a beckoning jewel.

After checking out the old-time Florida souvenirs in the unique gift shop, we loaded up with about a dozen other “Eco-Tourists” and headed out onto the lake. Pushing through tall grasses, we skirted the shoreline and were amazed at the teeming wildlife on display for us.

There were snowy egrets wading in the shallows, deer hiding near the marshy shore and gators aplenty that gazed at us as we sped by. The time spent in the sunshine, digesting what it means to be one with the Florida wilderness, was time that will never be forgotten.

From there, it was off to the hot air balloon ride! Aerophile Orlando’s Characters in Flight in Lake Buena Vista offers a ride in a giant tethered balloon that soars 400 feet into the sky. From there, you get a breathtaking 360-degree view of Walt Disney World Resort and the

Downtown Disney Area. The balloon itself is attached to a gondola that is 19 feet in diameter and holds up to 29 people and the pilot at a time. Guests board from a specially designed platform and then, once in the air, revel in a spectacular view of vistas up to 10 miles away!

It’s a don’t-miss experience for the adventurous spirit.

The highlight of the day was our trip to Florida EcoSafaris for our Zipline Safari. Part of Florida Forever, which encompasses over 4700 acres of pristine wilderness (and a working cattle ranch!), the Zipline Safari is a nature tour like none other. Along our two and a half hour journey we soared through the treetops, sometimes as much as 55 feet above the ground below. While making our way across sky-bridges, we learned about Florida’s natural flora and fauna from our expert guide. Reaching speeds up to 25 miles per hour, we kept on the constant lookout for such native Florida wildlife as bears, deer, alligators and so much more. When we got back to the main cabin, we also found that Florida EcoSafaris offers hiking, camping and even a Coach Safari, where you can travel in comfort aboard special open-air safari coaches.

So what are you waiting for? All of these unique outdoor experiences are only a short trip away. Check below for contact information and call to make your reservations today—you’ll enjoy Florida’s great outdoors!

Boggy Creek Airboat Rides: 2001 E. Southport Rd., Kissimmee.

(407)-344-9550. bcairboats.com.

Aerophile Orlando: 1501 E. Lake Buena Vista Dr., Lake Buena Vista. (407) 938-9433.

Florida EcoSafaris: 4755 N. Kenansville Rd., St. Cloud.

(407) 433-5567. foreverflorida.com.

© Disney/Pixar. © Mattel, Inc. All Rights Reserved. MR. POTATO HEAD and MRS. POTATO HEAD are trademarks of Hasbro and are used with permission. © Hasbro. All Rights Reserved.

Orlando Attractions—

SAVE $5 on Tickets!+ +Excludes Rinkside Dining and VIP seats. Valid for select performances. No double discounts.

MAY 19 - 22

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There are 3 ways to redeem your savings: 1. Bring this ad in person to the St. Pete Times Forum Box Office 2. Call at 1-800-745-3000 and mention code SAVE 3. Log on to Ticketmaster.com and enter code SAVE For full show schedule and to buy tickets, go to www.disneyonice.com

Happy Passover

Tarpon Springs Activities T 15

his month in Tarpon Springs:

Talent Show at Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center. Singers, dancers, poets, more. $5.

7 p.m. (727) 942-5628 or tsrdonline.com.

16

– 17 Arts and Crafts Festival, Tarpon

Springs Docks. Free admission.

Opens 10 a.m. Call (352) 3440657 or visit tnteventsinc.com

30

Greek Cooking Classes. Saturdays through May 21 at Safford House, 23 Parkin Court.

12 to 2 p.m. Register at (727) 942-5605 or tarponarts. org. $10 supplies fee per class.

Senior Connection • April 2011 • page 27

Journey Through The Wild Side of Quebec

BY TRACIE SCHMIDT

Q

uebec is a province where culture and nature are inseparable.

Glacier-carved fjords, maple forests and arctic seas teeming with marine life coexist with cities powered by wind and water, where people delight in the arts and celebrate the connection between man and the environment.

If you’re traveling by RV or only visiting for a week, Gaspe peninsula and the shores around the Gulf of St. Lawrence are great places to experience the natural beauty of Quebec.

Travel Perce I started my journey in the coastal town of Perce (French for “pierced”), which gets its name from an arched limestone formation just off of the mainland. Ferries make regular trips around Perce Rock as well as stops on Bonaventure Island, home to the largest colony of gannets in the world.

After about a 45-minute trek across the island up a gentle incline, I was met with a raucous sea of birds. White-colored gannets with black-tipped wings and patches of light orange on their heads swooped by, landing only a few feet away from me. When summer is over they head back to the Gulf of Mexico, where they can be seen flying solo off the coast of Florida.

Stay: Hotel-Motel Le Mirage.

Dine: Maison du Pecheur.

Senior Connection • April 2011 • page 28

Exploramer Next, I headed northwest along the coast to SainteAnne-des-Monts.

This drive is part of the Quebec Lighthouse Trail, and I couldn’t resist stopping by the town of La Martre to see North America’s last working non-automatic lighthouse. I felt like a kid again as I climbed the narrow stairs of the red wooden lighthouse, listening to the gears turn and seeing the town far below through faceted lenses.

In Sainte-Anne-des-Monts you’ll find Exploramer, an interactive aquarium and museum. Visitors can get hands-on with the marine life in the Gulf of St. Lawrence by taking a sea excursion or exploring touch tanks. Inside, I saw creatures uniquely adapted to life in the arctic, explored an undersea garden and lounged in a beanbag chair while ocean images floated overhead.

If you’re feeling adventurous, the nearby Blue Fork—a restaurant specializing in sustainable seafood—offers creative dishes with ingredients like sea urchin and sea cucumber.

Stay: La Maison William Wakeham, in Gaspe. Gaspe is a great base point for most of the destinations on the peninsula.

Dine: Brise Bise Restaurant.

Matane Reserve A short drive from Sainte-Anne-desMonts is the Matane Wildlife Reserve, a 60 sq. kilometer conservation park that is famous for its moose. This is one of those rare places where you can travel for miles without seeing another living soul. The cabins there are spacious and comfortable, and being so far from civilization meant zero noise and light pollution—nights were filled

with the stillness of the forest and countless stars. At dawn, I traveled by kayak down a nearby stream in hopes of spotting a moose, and later on I climbed an observation platform on one of the many trails and heard a female calling her calf a few feet away. Stay/tour packages offer a host of guided treks, programs and activities; plan to set aside a few days to truly explore this wonderful reserve.

Reford Gardens Continuing along the coast to the southwest will bring you to Grand Metis, home of the Reford Gardens.

Created in the 1920s, the gardens are unique for their success in adapting rare species to Quebec’s climate.

I visited in June and was treated to a rare sight: Blue Poppies in bloom—a flower that is usually only found in the Himalayas.

At the Estevan Lodge Restaurant, Chef Pierre-Olivier Ferry uses flora from Reford Garden in his dishes. I tried a “Flowering Spoon”—a small salad of begonia, lemon basil, pansy and other flowers and herbs with a touch of sea salt and honey. It was like a bite of Spring.

Photo by Croisieres AML

back whales and dolphins.

Dressed in warm layers, I climbed aboard one of Croisieres AML’s zodiacs and was amazed by what we were able to see in a single excursion. Minke whales breached beside our boat, rolling over to display their pink bellies before dipping back beneath the waves. A pod of white beluga whales followed in the wake of a nearby ship, and a fin whale—the second largest whale in the world—surfaced just beyond the zodiac to exhale a plume of air and seawater before arching its long body into a dive. It was a sight I’ll never forget.

Stay and Dine: Hotel Tadoussac.

Photo by quebecmaritime.ca

Whale Watching After taking the Rimouski-Forestville ferry across the St. Lawrence River, blue signs with white whales on them began appearing on the side of the road—clear markers that I was on the Whale Route.

The town of Tadoussac, overlooking the Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Conservation Area, is a famous destination for whale watching. I stopped by the Marine Mammal Interpretation Center to get a better idea of what I’d be seeing. The plankton-rich waters of the estuary draw all types of wildlife, from grey seals and seabirds to hump-

Jardin Des Glaciers Northeast of Tadoussac in Baie Comeau was the last stop on my journey.

Jardin Des Glaciers, a new state-ofthe-art science and exploration center, tells the story of the ancient geology and peoples of Quebec in an immersive multimedia presentation. It’s worth spending a couple days here—you can see how fossils are excavated from an ancient seabed or zipline through the Adrenalin Zone. A must-see for natural history and outdoor adventure enthusiasts.

Stay: Le Grand Hotel.

Dine: Hotel Le Manoir dining room.

To learn about more outdoor experiences, visit quebecmaritime.ca./en.

Need a New iRon? I

t all began with an iPhone...

March was when my grandson celebrated his 15th birthday and I got him an iPhone. He just loved it. Who wouldn’t?

I celebrated my birthday in July and my wife made me very happy when she bought me the iPad I wanted.

My granddaughter’s birthday was in August, so I got her an iPod Touch.

September came, so for my wife’s birth-day I bought her an iRon. It was around then that the fight started.

What my wife failed to recognize is that the iRon can be integrated into the home network with the iWash, iCook and iClean. This unfortunately activated the iNag app. Which led me to the iHospital and iGet out Thursday.

The Joke’s On Us F

or those of you who watch what you eat, here’s the final word on nutrition and health. It’s a relief to know the truth after all those conflicting nutritional studies.

1. The Japanese eat very little fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.

2. The Mexicans eat a lot of fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.

3. The Chinese drink very little red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.

4. The Italians drink a lot of red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.

5. The Germans drink a lot of beer and eat lots of sausages and fats and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.

Conclusion: Eat and drink what you like.

Speaking English is apparently what kills you.

WEEKENDS • Now through April 17 • Weekends & Friday, March 11th 10 AM – 6 PM • RAIN OR SHINE! FREE PARKING! • 800-779-4910

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Walk or Kayak to Honeymoon Island FREE Sewer, Water & Cable Rich Social Activities Elevators Beautiful Clubhouse Heated Swimming Pool Prompt & Courteous Maintenance Staff • FREE scheduled Call Toll Free transportation services 866-654-9093 (Save Gasoline) • Prices start at just 444 North Paula Drive $615 per month Dunedin, Florida 34698 • NO BUY-IN FEES www.scottishtowers.com

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Senior Connection • April 2011 • page 29

Seniors Getting Together Attention SGTers!

Screen respondents carefully. Always meet in public places and have your own transportation. Don’t divulge your home address. Be sure to provide a way for your correspondent to respond to you – phone number, e-mail address or Post Office Box address. Contact the authorities if you feel threatened or harassed by an individual. Be patient and careful – a good relationship and your personal safety are worth the wait!

WOMEN SEEKING MEN 1038 SEEKING CHRISTIAN GENTLEMAN Former airline stewardess & model, 5’4”, 104 lbs., widow, slender, white with Ph.D. in healthcare. Fulbright scholar, eats healthy and exercises. Likes sports and animals.

Loves the Lord. Fort Myers.

3981 CHRISTIAN W F Attractive, petite, ISO honest gentleman, NS, LTR, SOH, likes dancing a

little, movies, 68 to 70s. Maybe live together in your home or mine. Only God will know!

3983 SEEKING COMPATIBLE GENTLEMAN 63 – 75 I am 69yo, 5’3”. 140 lbs. H, W, C, NS, SD, FF. Attractive, honest and loving, looking for someone to share life, travel, exercises, music, etc.

Recent photo would be nice.

3989 SWF RED HEADED “LEO SEEKING LEO” I’m 86 yrs, old. 5’6”, 140 lbs. Italian from Miami via Brooklyn, NY. Love crosswords, plants, NASCAR, horse races and the “Dolphins.”

ISO good-looking gent, 70s, mustache a plus. Photo/phone.

3991 SEEKING 75ISH YO NEAT GENTLEMAN SWM, NS, SD(ok), SOH. Would enjoy a good friend, maybe more. I enjoy movies, cards, games, most activities, dining out

RUN YOUR AD FOR ONLY $6 A MONTH

and in, good conversation, slow dancing and travel. All answered.

3993 SEEKING INTELLIGENT RETIRED GENTLEMAN with a sense of humor who has seen a bit of the world. Age not important—health is. No smokers. Social drink—ok. I am 5’2”, normal weight, good health.

Some say good looking, adventurous white woman. St. Petersburg.

3997 I WANNA DANCE SBF, 57, new to south Hillsborough. Would like a NS gentleman dance partner to attend festivals, concerts, other social/cultural events. Dutch treat.

Straight/gay/race not important.

3999 SEEKING INTELLIGENT NEW FRIENDS ‘70’s Lady, feminist, loves books, writing, politics, movies, art, theater, concerts, cats, cooking/baking and libraries; no baggage. F, WW, W, C, NS, ND, NDrg, SOH, P, FF. Tampa.

MEN SEEKING WOMEN

SENIORS GETTING TOGETHER

3992 SEEKING VERY NATURAL WOMAN I am looking for a

Only $6 to place an ad!

Commonly Used Abbreviations:

Personal Ad Placement

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

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):

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.

Mentors Needed 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 • April 2011 • page 30

V

olunteers are needed at Gulf Coast Jewish Family & Community Services to give the gift of time to one child. Volunteers spend a few hours a week doing simple activities with the child such as reading, baking, fishing, gardening, teaching a craft, visiting a park with a child, or just listening to a child. We have children throughout Pinellas County waiting for mentors! To learn how you can make a lasting difference in the life of a child, call Bev at (727) 479-1841.

woman in her late 50s or early 60s. Going for walks, movies, going out to eat, staying home watching tv. Send phone number. Pasco County.

3994 52, 5’10” 182 LBS. NATUROPATH SBM ISO a fullfigured SWF between 50 – 62 for LTR. Must be a NS and a very light drinker. I enjoy flea markets, cooking, weight lifting, working, fishing, camping, cuddling and the Dallas Cowboys.

“How ‘bout dem Cowboys?”

3996 QUIET, CLEAN MALE, RETIRED loves the water, seeking a white female, fair hair, blue eyes between 49 to 69 yrs young for LTR in St. Pete or around.

4001 SEEKING A SLIM, ROMANTIC FEMALE ISO slim, romantic blonde w/ green eyes for LTR. I am 64 years old, psychotherapist, works with prisoners. I have a car and a home on the water.

Photo please. St. Petersburg.

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.

Silverliners to Meet T

he Silverliners, former flight attendants of Eastern Airlines, will meet on Saturday, April 16, at noon at the Rusty Pelican Restaurant, 2425 Rocky Point N., Tampa. This is the Florida Gulf Coast Chapter of Eastern Airlines Silverliners. Former flight attendants from other airlines are also invited to become members.

Florida Gulf Chapter has adopted Southeastern Guide Dogs as their local philanthropy. The national organization has been responsible for a cabin at Paul Newman’s “Hole in the Wall Gang” Camp in Connecticut.

Hillsborough County Silverliners may get information from Adrienne Love at (813) 677-2909. Pinellas residents may contact Barbara Bukata at (727) 785-3546.

Last Month’s Answers

Enter

This Month’s to Win! Winner Is Florence Geida Congratulations!

This month’s winner is

Enter To Win!

Last Month’s Answers

March Sudoku

Myron L. Guisewite

Dora Grober and Phyllis Frantz are last month’s winners! Congratulations!

Congratulations !!!

Win Great Prizes!

New winner selected each month

Last Month’s Answers

Good Luck!

April 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 The brochure ofSPCA’s 9 numbers must "Our Best Friends Deserve Better Plans" has all theinclude latest information all digits on Estate Planning for Pets and Florida's Pet Trust Law is FREE! This brochure helps pet owners plan for their 1 throughand 9 initany petsorder. in case of an emergency or in case their pets outlive them. Use this Each 3 by 3 order form to order your free materials. subsection of the 9 by 9 square must Send Me Information! include all digits 1 Clip and mail this coupon through 9 as well.

Name: The first correct Address: answers selected from the drawing City: State: Zip: on Apr. 21 will win.

Good luck!

Home Phone: Work Phone: Send your answers along with your name, address and telephone number to: E-mail: SENIOR CONNECTION OR MATURE LIFESTYLES I/We have included the in my/our plan. FL 33584 1602 S.SPCA PARSONS AVE.,estate SEFFNER, Mystery WIN! WIN! WIN! GREAT PRIZES! Prize!

(Sudoku must be received by April 21, 2011.)

Please send me the following information Best Friends Deserve Better Plans brochures Pet Alert Wallet Card In-Case-Of-Emergency Window Decal Information and notices on Estate Planning for Seminars

LEARN HOW TO PLAN FOR YOUR PETS IN AN EMERGENCY

FILL IN ANSWERS & WIN MONEY!

Send your answers for a drawing. First correct answers selected from the drawing on April 19 will receive $20 cash!

Send to: News Connection USA, Inc., 1602 S. Parsons Ave, Seffner, FL 33584

I am interested in: Travel / Cruises Recreation / Leisure Entertainment / Events

Insurance Elder Law / Financial Housing Options Reverse Mortgages

Personal Health & Fitness Home Improvements Automobiles

Name Address City

Age

Phone

E-mail

State Zip

SC/Hills and Sun

FILL IN ANSWERS & WIN Senior MONEY! Connection • April 2011 • page 31

Send your answers for a drawing. First correct answers selected from the drawing on June 19th will receive $20 cash! Send to: Mature Lifestyles, 220 W. Brandon Blvd., Suite 203, Brandon, FL 33511

Bright House Networks would like to thank everyone who participated in our Bright Stars Senior Talent Shows this year.

All proceeds from ticket sales from the Regional Shows went to benefit local senior non-profit organizations.

Bright House Networks was pleased to assist the following organizations that do so much for our seniors each and every day: Pinellas ticket proceeds went to benefit Good Life Games 2011 Tri-County ticket proceeds went to benefit CARES Adult Day Care Manatee ticket proceeds went to benefit Meals on Wheels PLUS Hillsborough ticket proceeds went to benefit Tampa Bay Senior Games The winners from each of our regional shows have been chosen to perform at the Bright House Networks Senior Idol Show:

April 6, 2011 - 7:00 pm • Ruth Eckerd Hall 1111 N. McMullen Booth Road • Clearwater, FL 33759 • 727-712-2759 Tickets - $6 each General Admission Twelve terrific acts will be performing, Jen Holloway and Virginia Johnson will host the show culminating with the selection of one performer who will be named Tampa Bay Senior Idol 2011.

Be sure to tune in to Tampa Bay On Demand Channel 340 in late April to see Bright House Networks Tampa Bay Senior Idol 2011 show again! The Tampa Bay Senior Idol will receive $500 from Bright House Networks and will choose the charity of their choice to receive $500. Then tune in to find out who the audience will select as the Tampa Bay’s Senior Idol.

Thanks to Humana for being our Senior Idol Sponsor!

Senior Connection • April 2011 • page 32

Substitute Guacamole and Boost Your HDL California Confetti Pizza I f you’re trying to raise your HDL (“good” cholesterol) level, you’re replacing unhealthy fats with healthier fats in your diet.

To do that, think avocados. The oils and fats found in the fruit are “good” fats and can help lower your cholesterol. The avocado is a great source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fat which helps raise levels of HDL and protect arteries while lowering levels of LDL (“bad” cholesterol). Avocados also contain more beta-carotene than any other fruit, offering important antioxidant properties.

Wholly Guacamole is fresh, prepared, preservative-free guacamole available at local supermarkets.

The same company makes Wholly Salsa, low in calories and high in nutritional value. Use it to zest up sandwiches, potatoes and rice.

Here are some easy ideas from the makers of Wholly Guacamole and Wholly Salsa:

• Get off the ranch. Veggies usually served with ranch dressing can be served with guacamole or salsa. For example, one tablespoon of ranch dressing has 140 calories (130 from fat) while guacamole has 60 calories, only 45 of which come from fat.

• A burger usually topped with ranch dressing or high-calorie mayonnaise is tasty when topped with guacamole or salsa.

• Instead of topping a hot dog with ketchup, try salsa or guacamole.

• Chicken salad is delicious with guacamole, and for extra-tasty texture, add corn and beans.

• Crab cakes usually served with mayonnaise are especially tasty when served with spicy guacamole or salsa.

Try this recipe:

Word Search

4 oz. Wholly Guacamole 1 12-inch purchased, baked pizza bread shell 1 tbsp. olive oil (+ as needed) 1/2 cup of corn kernels, fresh or canned, drained 1/2 cup tomato salsa 1/2 cup thinly sliced green onions 1/4 cup chopped Anaheim chile 1/4 cup red bell pepper 1 cup Feta Cheese 1 tbsp. chopped, fresh oregano

Brush pizza bread shell with olive oil. Spread salsa over shell. Spread “Wholly Guacamole” over salsa. Sprinkle corn, green onions, Anaheim chile, bell pepper, cheese and oregano.

Drizzle 1 tbsp. olive oil. Bake at 450F until cheese is lightly browned—or 10 minutes.

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Word Search Apr. 2011 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?

Answers From

March 2011

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&

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Senior Connection • April 2011 • page 33

Senior Connection • April 2011 • page 34

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Senior Connection • April 2011 • page 35

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