Lifestyles After 50 Suncoast May 2013 edition

Lifestyles www.lifestylesafter50fl.com • Suncoast • FREE

AFTER 50

Vol. 24 • May 2013

Join us for the

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May 23

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Inside this issue Unleash the Power of Age Making Every Minute Count Wardrobe Wake Up Dead Men Tell Tales

Unleash Your Hippie Power for Today’s Good

Dear Readers,

Remember these?

Tune in, turn on!

Flower Power Far out Peace Janice Doyle, Love the one Editor you’re with Groovy Yes, they’re sayings from the days of hippies, those free-spirited children of the 60s. Hippies drove VW vans painted in psychedelic colors, wore tiedyed clothes and smoked pot for fun. They said they would never trust anyone over 30, and they set about going against society by rejecting it.

It was a decade of pursuit—for equality for races and women. There were the anti-war protests, an environmental awareness movement and a longing for a simpler, earth-friendly way of life.

And there was the music. From Joan Baez to Jimi Hendrix, the music of the 60s lives on. In the book Hippies A to Z, writer Skip Stone says of that music: “The songs had an impact on the consciousness of not just hippies but all society…they hit us deeply, made us think, made us dream, made us feel as one people.”

Not every young person was a stoned and commune-living hippie, of course.

The American dream was alive and well. It was a great time to get a low-cost education; small business loans were out there for everyone, and

an individual could make a choice to become anybody he or she chose.

We experienced the power of songs and speeches and marches, of protests and plays and events like Woodstock.

Whether we participated in major movements or watched from the sidelines, we watched our world change as a result of the youth of our country.

Fifty years have passed. Both hippies and non-hippies became mothers and fathers, teachers and scientists, soldiers and airmen, policemen and bankers.

Now the society hippies said they didn’t trust supports them in their retirement.

A 1963 declaration Something else happened in 1963 that we were too young and cool to notice—May was declared Older Americans Month (originally Senior Citizens Month). Every year since then has seen a formal declaration for the month by the president and a challenge for everyone to recognize the older Americans as a part of the community.

So here’s the thing. On this fiftieth anniversary of that designator, the theme of Older Americans Month challenges you to regain the passion and power of the hippie days as you “Unleash the Power of Age!” We the older generation include some of our country’s best resources.

When the kids grow up and leave us with an empty nest or when we retire and leave the workforce, we have the opportunity to unleash our intellectual property, experience and know-how to better our communities.

No protest is needed. You can march or run or use a walker.

You can teach, create, grow, develop or use your skills in any one of a hundred different ways. From basic telephone skills to helping construct new paths on the Appalachian Trail, you can unleash your power. If you’re still singing, find a way to help others enjoy singing. If you are an environmentalist tree hugger at heart, engage in some “flower power” by planting trees.

Join a group like Senior Environment Corps or the Passport In Time program in national forests. Do psychedelic colors still intrigue you? Consider painting houses with Habitat for Humanity or the elderly in your neighborhood. (Well, maybe not in psychedelic colors.)

Pinellas/Pasco Edition Published monthly by News Connection U.S.A., Inc General Manager Dave Tarantul dave@lifestylesafter50.com

Publisher/Director of Events & Marketing Kathy J. Beck kathy@lifestylesafter50.com Editor Janice Doyle janice@lifestylesafter50.com

Accounting/Office Manager Vicki Willis vicki@lifestylesafter50.com Production Supervisor/Graphic Design Kim Burrell kim@lifestylesafter50.com Production Assistant Tracie Schmidt tracie@lifestylesafter50.com Customer Service 1-888-670-0040

Advertising Sales

1-888-670-0040 Central and South Pinellas Jolie Baetzel: (941) 237-8031

North Pinellas & West Pasco Jim Bouldin: (727) 946-0714

The best part is that every time you volunteer you yourself continue learning, growing and broadening your own horizons.

Go for it! The hippies wanted change to happen just because they said it should happen. Fifty years later we’re wiser and we know that some changes can only occur if one individual person makes a difference one day at a time.

Groovy, man! Unleash your power!

Tampa Bay Dena Bingham: (813) 653-1988 Hillsborough Chuck Bingham: (813) 293-1550 Lake/Marion/Sumter Rhonda Sakowski: (352) 812-5652 Our other editions: Hillsborough Edition: Hillsborough County Lake Edition: Lake/Marion Counties Sarasota Edition: Sarasota/Manatee Southwest Edition: Lee/Collier & Charlotte To learn more, call 1-888-670-0040 Distribution 1-888-670-0040

News Connection USA, Inc. P.O. Box 638 Seffner, Florida 33583-0638 (813) 653-1988 • 1-888-670-0040 Fax: (813) 651-1989 www.lifestylesafter50fl.com

FCOA Attention Readers: The articles printed in Lifestyles After 50 do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the Editor or the staff. Lifestyles After 50 endeavors to accept reliable advertising; however, we cannot be held responsible by the public for advertising claims.

Lifestyles After 50 reserves the right to refuse or discontinue any advertisement. Our advertising deadline for the June 2013 issue is May 15, 2013. Magazines are out by the 7th of each month. All rights reserved.

Lifestyles After 50 • May 2013 • page 2

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Around Town

W H AT ’ S H A P P E N I N G M AY 2 0 1 3

O

ngoing Women of Palm Harbor Newcomers Alumnae and Friends meeting, first Thursday of each month at East Lake Woodlands Country Club. Meeting, luncheon and entertainment. 11 a.m. 727-787-9336.

S

aturdays Gentle Yoga classes, 12:30 pm at Tarpon Springs Community Center, 400 S. Walton Ave. $5/class. Info: 727-942-5628.

4

Palm Harbor Community Chorus, 50s and 60s concert at the Palm Harbor Public Library, 2 pm. Free; donations accepted. Info at 727-786-2610.

5

Cinco De Mayo Celebration. Latin music and dance, food and drink, car show and more. 11 am to 6 pm. $13. Info and tickets at latinamericancelebration.com or call 800-514-3849.

7

“On the Home Front” Exhibit at the St. Petersburg Museum of History. Collection of WWII posters, uniforms, weapons and personal memorabilia from 1941 to 1945. 10 am – 5 pm. spmoh.org or 727-894-1052.

7 8

Beginning Tai Chi class at 1370 Main Street. Dunedin. 10:30 am; details at 727-734-0929.

Creative Exercise. A toning, stretching, laughing, dancing “I feel good” class with lively music.

Designed for those over 50. 10:15 to 11:15 am at Boyd Hill Nature Preserve, 1101 Country Club Way S., St. Petersburg. Details at 727-893-7326.

9

Happy Hour With the Historian.

Tales of local history and culture presented by experts. Includes a full bar. $5. 6 pm at St. Petersburg Museum of History. 727-894-1052.

11

League of Women Voters Meeting. Guest speaker: Dr. Michael A. Grego, Superintendent of Pinellas County Schools. $30 includes lunch. 10:30 am at Carlouel Yacht Club, Clearwater. Public welcome; info/register at 727-781-0546.

11

Sunken Gardens Workshop: beginning Bonsai techniques. $65.

18: Growing Phalaenopsis Orchids.

June 1: Bamboos for Your Florida Garden. All classes at 11:30 am.

Sunken Gardens, 1825 Fourth St. N, St. Petersburg.727-551-3102.

17

43rd Street Senior Citizen’s Club meeting at Christ Lutheran Church, 3451 30th Ave. N., St. Petersburg. Bring covered dish and $1 donation. Public welcome for fun and games. Info: call Mary Ann at 727595-8648 or Beverly at 727-328-1266.

18

Free Museum Day at Safety Harbor Museum and Cultural Center, 329 S. Bayshore Blvd. Tour the museum for free and enjoy an old fashioned ice cream social. 1 pm.

Registration required. 727-724-1562.

18

A Dash For Cover. A 5K race , 8:30 am and a 1 mile family fun walk at scenic John Chesnut Senior Park. $25 – $35.

Proceeds benefit Melanoma Research Foundation. 727-669-1951.

18

Clearwater Community Band concert at St. Petersburg College Clearwater Campus Arts Auditorium, 2465 Drew St., Clearwater.

Doors open 1 pm, jazz band performs at 2, concert band at 3 pm. Free (donations appreciated). 727-712-5877.

25

Flipping for Dolphins: Join Clearwater Marine Aquarium staff at Weedon Island Preserve to learn about their work with their four resident Atlantic bottlenose dolphins. Behavior, care and training techniques, 10 to 11 am. Free; registration required. 727-453-6500.

25

and 26 Crafty Fest. Arts, crafts and vintage treasures. 10 am at ArtPool Gallery, 2030 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. Free. 727-324-3878.

Send Around Town news to News Connection USA, Inc., P.O. Box 638, Seffner, FL 33583; fax (813) 651-1989 or email calendar@srnewsconnection.com. News must be received by the 10th of the month prior to event (i.e. May 10 for June event.)

Lifestyles After 50 • May 2013 • page 5

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Lifestyles After 50 • May 2013 • page 6

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May 25th at 10:00 am Free parking Complimentary refreshments

Armed Forces History Museum Keeps Heroes’ Memories Alive

BY TRACIE SCHMIDT

F

rom my place in the trenches I could hear the planes buzzing past, the staccato beats of steady gunfire overhead. Around me were uniforms, canteens and other items that brave soldiers once carried into battle. Some items made it back when the men and women did not, and remain to tell their stories.

This is the WWI exhibit at the Armed Forces History Museum (AFHM) in St. Petersburg, a collection of artifacts, vehicles, weapons and dioramas that cover military history all the way back to the Civil War. Many of the items come from a private collection started by John Piazza Sr. around 50 years ago. Out of a desire to honor our military history and share these items with others, he founded the museum and opened it to the public five years ago.

“Everybody says they are thoroughly impressed with the authenticity and the quality. They don’t expect to see this

to set foot on Utah Beach at D-Day, came over the speaker as I approached the shoreline. His boots rested nearby.

The collection was the second thing that set the museum apart from others I had visited. The actual model battleships from the movie set of Tora! Tora! Tora! were the centerpiece of their Pearl Harbor exhibit. The museum is also noted for housing the only known uniform of Saddam Hussein, as high quality of a well as a collection of three Germuseum here,” said man military medals from a set Cindy Bosselmann, of only 27 ever made. Vehicles Director of Marketlike their 1944 M4A3 Shering and Promoman Tank and the 2 1/2 ton tional Events at Walk through WWI trenches DUKW amphibious vehicle the AFHM. are all still in working order.

Three things made the museum stand What impressed me the most, however, out to me; the first was how immersive was how alive the museum was. There the experience was. My two-hour were stories about local heroes like journey through the building took Lieutenant Baldomero Lopez, from me from the trenches in WWI to the Tampa, who sacrificed his life to shield dense jungle of the Ho Chi Minh trail. his troops from a grenade at the Battle of The recorded words of Col. Leonard Inchon. Veteran Bill Allen, once a POW Schroeder, the first American soldier in Korea, visits the museum twice a week AFHM’s working 1944 M4A3 Sherman Tank

and holds panel discussions with visitors.

Alexander Manson, a Navy veteran, was visiting. “After being in the service for almost seven years, I thought I’d try it out. I’m glad I did,” he said. I asked him if any of the exhibits brought back memories. “Oh yeah,” he replied. “The Vietnam era, especially—I was in during that time.”

I asked Bosselman why museums like the AFHM were so important.

“They preserve the memories of those that have fought so hard for our freedom that so many people these days take for granted,” she told me. “History is so important because it helps you prepare for the future. That’s what we’re doing here; we’re really proud of this museum.”

This month, at AFHM: Red, White and Craft Brews Fest, May 18, 5 – 9 pm.; Abilities Wine Tasting and Silent Auction, May 25, 7 pm.; Memorial Day Family Fun Fest, May 27, 10 am – 4 pm.

The Armed Forces History Museum is located at 2050 34th Way N., Largo.

To learn more, call 727-539-8371.

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Balloon Artist Gives Second Chance at Childhood

BY JANICE DOYLE

“N

o, Dad, you’re too old.”

These are probably words Robert Settles’ daughter should have known better than to have said to her dad, but she did. He had watched her twisting balloons into animal shapes and it captured his imagination. She showed him how, and after two weeks and breaking a few dozen balloons, Settles said, “It was in my hands.”

If you have attended one of the Fun Fests sponsored by this publication, you have seen creations Settles has made as a part of Florida Blue/ Blue Cross Blue Shield’s booth.

“I love working here because I see people who are having a second chance to act like a child when I give them a balloon,” Settles said. “They feel special because I created a balloon just for them.”

Lifestyles After 50 • May 2013 • page 8

Robert Settles, Balloon Artist

And then he added, “They know that somebody thought about them today. That’s really important.”

Making people feel important is a big part of who Robert Settles is.

His first balloons went to underprivileged kids in East St. Louis because, he said, he wanted to “give the kids something different.”

From there he took personalized balloon creations to events in Union Station in St. Louis and to

Laclede’s Landing. He devised a St. Louis Rams balloon helmet in 1998 and would go to the team’s rallies and events, becoming a St. Louis sensation.

He added special St. Louis Cardinals balloons to his repertoire as well and soon found himself working seven days a week between commissioned events and charity work.

When his wife became ill, they gave up the cold for Miami, and his balloon and clown work allowed him to have a flexible schedule to keep her doctor appointments while helping with their seven children.

The 57-year-old Settles has worked since age 8 when he began selling newspapers. “I did anything to make money. I used my dad’s loaner, a 1965 Buick Electra and by 17, I bought my first car, a ‘70 Chevy Nova. That was a classic. My dad made me take out a loan just for the experience.

I paid it off in five payments.”

Settles laughed and told this story about himself: He was working in Cincinnati as a busboy at Red Lobster when he was 17. He became known as the “dancing busboy” for the way he cleared a table in 30 seconds “which was unheard of.” Upper level management came to see him do it and told him if he wanted to move up in the company just let them know and they’d let him do what he wanted. He didn’t.

His work ethic and sensible outlooks? He learned it from his parents. Settles’ father worked four jobs at a time and his mom worked at the VA Hospital for 25 years.

For the past four years, Settles has been contracted for Florida Blue through MyFabEvents.com. You can catch him—Corney the Clown—at one of our future Fun Fests: May 23 at the Seminole Recreation Center in Seminole or June 27 in Plant City. After that, follow our event schedule to see him in late summer and fall in the area.

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Lifestyles After 50 • May 2013 • page 9

T

elevision star Lorianne Crook has seen a lot during her days of hosting the long-running All aboard the Holland America talk show Crook & Chase. But Eurodam for the Country Music nothing quite like what’s in store Cruise, Jan. 19, 2014! for her when she sets sail on the Country Music Cruise next January.

“Vacationing on a spectacular cruise, popping in and out of Caribbean islands, well, that’s the trip of a lifetime as it is,” she marvels, “but then to stroll down the deck and walk into concerts by Kenny Rogers or Vince Gill, Jo Dee Messina or Larry Gatlin—that’s heaven, absolute heaven for a country music fan like me.”

Vince Gill Crook will wear two hats (cowboy, Lorianne Crook of course) during the Country Music Cruise; one as a fan and another as host of the voyage.

Kenny Rogers “I absolutely love hosting television and radio shows.

When I was asked to be a part of the cruise, I thought it was a wonderful and really special opportunity to connect with people who may have seen my show throughout the years perform in and really hang out with them intimate venues in a whole new way I’ve just for guests never thought possible,” she of the Country explains. “And it is first class Music Cruise.

Restless Heart all the way—the stars, the food, And that’s not the islands we are going to,” she adds. all. The concerts keep on coming, “January can’t get here soon enough!” with live performances by Andy get up close and personal, the Red, The Country Music Cruise will set Griggs, Wade Hayes, Ty Herndon, White and Blue BBQ, a Boots and sail on January 19 on the breathtaking Jamie O’Neal, Warren Brothers and Buckles Ball, a Country Gospel Holland America Eurodam and travel Bryan White. Cruisers will dance hour, line dancing, Texas Hold’em through the Caribbean with a group the days away with poolside shows Poker Tournaments, Southern cooking of superstars so big, they share an

by Country Music’s #1 party band demonstrations, karaoke, contests astounding 350 hit singles between Chuck Mead (of BR549) & His and more. Plus world class dining, them and nearly 90 #1 hits, too.

Grassy Knoll Boys and side-splitting wine tastings, songwriter workshops Imagine seeing shows by Vince Gill, shows by comedian Jon Reep. and exclusive screenings of country Kenny Rogers, Larry Gatlin & The But this cruise is so much more music films and documentaries.

Gatlin Brothers, Patty Loveless, Jo than concerts. Travelers will “Country music fans are in for Dee Messina, Ronnie Milsap, and immerse themselves in the total something really special,” says Vince Restless Heart all within the span of country music experience and enjoy Gill, who is one of the headlining acts. a week, enjoying music that hundreds ‘round the clock entertainment with “Not only will they get to experience of millions of fans across the world dynamic panel discussions and a luxurious ocean cruise, but they can have loved as these incredible artists Q&As with the artists where fans enjoy exclusive concerts by country Lifestyles After 50 • May 2013 • page 10

music’s iconic superstars.

The cruise is destined to become a vacation destination in the years to come.”

The voyage gives fans the rare opportunity to see so many of their favorite singers all in one location, but for it to all take place among breathtaking ocean and island vistas on one of the most magnificent ships at sea is a rare and spectacular treat. “I couldn’t be more excited about performing on the Country Music Cruise and being a part of a vacation that my fans will never forget,” adds Kenny Rogers, who will bring 50 years of beloved hits to the stage onboard just weeks after his induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame.

While on the ship, vacationers will experience the very best in fine dining and beautiful accommodations while being pampered by the superb Holland America staff aboard Holland America’s m/s Eurodam, one of the world’s premier cruise lines. The ship will dock in several picturesque Caribbean towns, where travelers can explore the majestic beauty and vibrant culture of Grand Turk (Turks and Caicos), San Juan (Puerto Rico), and Philipsburg (Saint Maarten).

One of the little-known treasures of a cruise filled with as much entertainment as this one is the inclusive rate. When travelers book their cabins, they’re not just making a hotel reservation; they are booking a vacation brimming with amenities.

All concerts, entertainment, premier dining (including never-ending dessert buffets and round-the-clock room service), concerts, parties, activities and more are included in the fare.

Cabins are available now at www.CountryMusicCruise.com or by calling (toll free) 1-855-332-6868.

Early reservation Country Music Cruise fan rates start at just $1,925 per person.

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JANUARY 19-26 | 2014

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Lifestyles After 50 • May 2013 • page 11

New Specialists on Hand for Boomer Retirement

BY EVELYN MACKEY

“I

n the past, retirement was a destination,” Dorian Mintzer, a therapist and board-certified retirement transition coach based in Boston, told USA Today. “You had your retirement party and bought your condo in Florida. Now it’s a process. It’s a journey that can be daunting but can be very exciting, too.”

Many boomers will have to reinvent their lives, and they may have given the matter little thought, the January article noted. It further describes Mintzer and others like him as being in a new category of specialists. They are retirement coaches who aid in setting goals and making plans. Another group—certified senior advisors—find the most appropriate senior housing complex or guide healthcare decisions.

“What are you going to do when you retire?” someone may ask a 60-year-old. The funny answer is “Whatever I want to whenever I want to do it.” That may be easier than it sounds, especially for dual career couples who may have different ideas of when and how to be retired, the USA Today article pointed out.

A financial planner may be valuable in helping decide aspects of retirement by taking a good look at your finances and setting boundaries on future spending ability. Some questions he or she won’t be able to help you answer might be the following: 1. What are your goals for your retirement years? Do you know what you want to be able to say you’ve accomplished in the 20 or 30 or more years left in your life?

2. How will you define your life week by week, month by month, year by year without the job descriptions you’ve lived with?

3. What new opportunities do you look forward to with the added time?

Travel? Adventure?

Mentoring? Volunteering?

4. What skills do you have to make the future happen the way you see it? It’s easy to be pulled in many directions by the whims of family and friends who now see you with time that could be spent with them. It is often very difficult to set your own schedule and define your own retirement.

Do you need a retirement or life coach?

AARP figures show that one of the more than 76 million boomers turns 50 every 7.5 seconds. Every coming year, over 4 million men and women will join the ranks of the 50-plus age group. People turning 50 today have half of their adult lives ahead of them, according to William Novelli of AARP.

Goal-oriented boomers are known for consumption and may be wiser about what money does and doesn’t provide. But they may need a coach to help them decide how to use that knowledge. They’ve found a gap between where they are in their current lives and where they would like to be. A coach may help them expand their thinking, clarify goals and hold them accountable for working to achieve their vision.

Following dreams requires planning. Without proper planning and commitment (and maybe coaching), a retiree who had dreams of taking on worthy projects or pursuing an education might wake up at age 75 and look back at the jumble of the prior 15 years spent doing whatever someone else suggested and feel the years have amounted to very little compared to the possibilities he or she imagined.

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1986 Palm Harbor #240 3 BR, 2 BA. 1152 Sq. Ft. $14,900

1987 Homes of Merrit #248 2 BR, 2 BA. 1,248 sq ft $21,900

1984 Jacobsen #68 2 BR, 2 BA. 1152 Sq. Ft. $15,000

1992 Jacobsen #163 2 BR, 2 BA. 1056 Sq. Ft. $15,500

1990 Fleetwood #237 2 BR, 2 BA. 1008 Sq. Ft. $14,900

1991 Palm Harbor #169 2 BR, 2 BA. 1,064 sq ft $26,500

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Veterans Corner

Homeless Vets Get Second Chance Living at the Ritz

BY JANICE DOYLE

I

ts architecture hints of an elegant bygone lifestyle: Stained glass windows in the lobby, a sparkling pool, hand-painted tiles on the stair risers, an awning-covered walkway. It’s the Volunteers of America of Florida’s Ocala Ritz Veterans Village which houses 52 once-homeless veterans from the Ocala area. It’s a secure, safe and clean housing solution in a supportive environment free of drugs and alcohol.

Government statistics say that nearly 13 percent of the homeless adult population are veterans. What to do?

Enter Volunteers of America, a faith-based organization which for 117 years has stepped forward to help America’s most vulnerable. The agency’s ministry of service helps connect veterans to re-integrate back into society and self-sufficiency.

In Ocala, Volunteers Of America bought The Ritz Historic Inn which was a landmark property on Main Street. It had weathered foreclosures, bankruptcies and many owners since being built in 1925. The agency spent over two years renovating and turning it into the attractive and useful place it is today.

Wendy Whitescarver, the agency’s Resource Development Manager, says, “The community of Ocala really stepped up to assist in making the veterans a home.” Individuals, groups and businesses donated labor, cash, furniture, skills and time to make it a home for those who qualify.

Dolly Rodriguez, Health Services Manager for the facility, says, “It’s a place where a veteran’s basic needs are met so they don’t have to worry.” They begin to move their lives forward again.

The one-time hotel lobby is now a community room which turns into a training room, class room, computer lab, meeting room or party space, depending

on the need. Former apartments now provide individual rooms with lounge areas and community kitchens.

Residents (both men and women and currently ranging in age from 24 to 65) work with staff to develop their life plans and set goals. If they have income, they must pay 30 percent toward their rent. Assistance is given to finding necessary health or counseling services.

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Rodriguez says, “A lot of what we do here is encouragement. Change is uncomfortable and difficult and sometimes the need is to talk to the proper person who can help. They can come here and regain their self-sufficiency.

They each knew how in the military and we want them to do that again.”

Finances for Volunteers Of America’s program comes from VA grants, federal and state funding sources.

How can you help? Call or visit The Ocala Veterans Village and offer whatever skills you have from possible classes you might teach to speaking to community groups to bringing your group for a special project. Gently used furniture is also welcome.

Volunteers Of America has similar veterans housing programs throughout Florida in Gainesville, Lake City, Jacksonville, Tallahassee, Punta Gorda, Tampa (women), Key West, Miami, Pensacola and Cocoa. They can all use volunteers and donations. The agency also provides similar services for elderly and special needs populations.

Info: Dolly Rodriguez, 352-562-7872 or email Wendy Whitescarver at wwhitescarver@voa-fla.org.

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Lifestyles After 50 • May 2013 • page 13

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Lifestyles After 50 • May 2013 • page 15

Wardrobe Wakeup—My Clothes and I: We Just Don’t Get Along Anymore

BY EVELYN MACKEY

B

oomers and seniors know the romance is over when the clothes that made them feel confident, successful and put together years ago no longer work. Bodies evolved into new shapes but wardrobes haven’t, according to Lois Joy Johnson, fashion editor and author of the book Wardrobe Wakeup.

Johnson has worked more than 20 years re-defining how women dress after 40.

She wants women to have more style and flatter from their same old clothes through updating and restoring “lazy” clothes.

“Clothes are a necessity, fashion is an option and style is your choice.”

At this age, says Johnson, “When it comes to clothes, our relationship is emotional. We used to dress to fit in, stand out or move up. Now we dress only for ourselves…at least that’s our line and we’re sticking to it.”

She says bodies change, sag and shift even if weight goes up, down or stays the same. What to do about the clothes for such a body? Here are some tips:

1. Edit. Anything beyond rejuvenation goes out. If it’s frayed, pilled, stiff, too mini, too clingy, way too big, too saggy or small—out! Then organize by color. After color, group and organize by fabric texture, tailored or not, print or floral, solids, etc. Once completed,

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layering and accessorizing will be easy. Hang or shelve like items by color (cluster jackets, tops, pants, etc.)

2. Wear one color head to toe.

“Big-time designers like Michael Kors, Ralph Lauren, Donna Karan and Georgio Armani often use the one-color strategy in their collections,” notes Johnson. An exact match gives you the slimmest look, but don’t drive yourself mad; just stay in the same color group for a sleeker line.

3. Wear black with navy like fashion editors do, pairing them by color intensity (same degree of darkness or brightness, etc. Black with navy, charcoal or brown with burgundy are examples).

Do the same with light colors, say white with sand or rose with coral.

4. A longer neck and legs are game changers. Use skin-tone flats or

pumps on the bottom and necklines that dip below your collarbones. Johnson cautions that if you go too low and reveal cleavage it can sabotage the whole mission. Unbuttoned shirts form a good V-neck, for example.

5. A nip and a tuck freshens everything.

Tailoring tricks include getting rid of shoulder pads and raising shoulder lines. Nip waists for a thinner look on straight-cut jackets, etc. Pants are tough, says Johnson. New styles with improved proportioning and design details solve a lot of issues. Ditch the old ones for best fit possible.

6. Layer clothes like a stylist for an updated look, but beware creating a sloppy, frumpy look. Learn to let go of the old-time perfection that came with shirts buttoned up to the neck and cleanly tucked in at the waist. That look dates you!

Johnson is the author of “Wardrobe Wakeup: Your Guide to Looking Fabulous at Any Age.”

Take Good Care of Your Teeth

T

ake time to develop five habits recommended by dentists that adults do each day to keep oral hygiene in top shape.

1. Use an Electric Toothbrush At more than 30,000 strokes per minute compared to the average of 100 strokes per minute with a manual toothbrush, electric toothbrushes work harder by pushing fluid between teeth and around the gum line, which provides a more effective cleaning. It will help prevent gum inflammation, gingivitis and periodontal disease.

2. Floss at Night The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentists recommends flossing at night because during sleep cycles, less saliva is produced to naturally clean teeth and gums, so oral bacteria are free to do more damage. Go to bed with your mouth as clean as possible.

3. Select the Right Toothpaste Be skeptical of any toothpaste that

promises to “whiten” teeth.

Such products remove surface stains and make the tooth look lighter, but not change its inherent color. To lighten or bleach teeth, schedule a professional in-office whitening treatment, or use overthe-counter name brand bleaching products that work on the internal aspect of the tooth, not just the external aspect as a toothpaste does.

4. Don’t Forget Mouthwash 5. Eat Foods Good for Healthy Teeth Research studies show that certain foods naturally cleanse your teeth including fruits like strawberries and pineapple, veggies like kale and broccoli, onions and wasabi (a type of Japanese horse radish) and quinoa.

All of these contain vitamins and minerals for good dental health.

The Healthy Geezer

BY FRED CICETTI

Q

. I have arthritis in my knee.

I’m thinking about trying acupuncture, but my friends think I’m nuts. What do you think?

S

everal recent studies show osteoarthritis symptoms can be relieved with acupuncture. One Scandinavian study reported that 25 percent of patients canceled their plans for knee surgery after acupuncture.

About 15 million Americans have tried this needle therapy. The World Health Organization recommends it for more than 40 conditions as diverse as asthma and nausea from chemotherapy. The Food and Drug Administration regulates acupuncture needles.

So, no, I don’t think you’re nuts.

By the 3rd century B.C., the Chinese had documented a medical system that is based on qi (pronounced “chee”), a concept of vital energy that is believed to flow throughout the body.

Qi is said to regulate a person’s physical, spiritual, emotional and mental balance. Advocates of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), say qi is affected by yin (negative energy) and yang (positive energy). When the flow of qi is disrupted and yin and yang are unbalanced, the condition leads to pain and disease, according to TCM. Treatments that are integral to this ancient system are herbal and nutritional therapy, restorative physical exercises, meditation, acupuncture and remedial massage.

To correct the flow of qi, acupuncture uses superfine metal needles inserted into the skin at more than 2,000 “acupoints” along pathways known as “meridians.” It is believed that there are 12 main meridians and 8 secondary meridians. The points can also be stimulated with heated herbs, magnets, mild electrical

current, manual pressure, low-frequency lasers or even bee stings.

Most acupuncture patients feel little or no pain as the needles are inserted. Some people are energized by treatment, while others feel relaxed. Improper needle placement, movement of the patient, or a defect in the needle can cause soreness and pain during treatment.

Relatively few complications from acupuncture have been reported to the FDA. However, inadequate sterilization of needles and improper administration have led to complications.

When done improperly, acupuncture can cause serious problems such as infections and punctured organs.

Western scientists don’t know how acupuncture works. However, studies show that stimulating acupoints causes multiple biologic responses. For example, this stimulation can prompt the release of the body’s natural pain-killing endorphins.

If you are interested in acupuncture, ask your doctor about it. Healthcare practitioners can be a resource for referrals to acupuncturists.

More medical doctors, including neurologists, anesthesiologists, and specialists in physical medicine, are becoming trained in acupuncture.

About 10,000 acupuncturists practice in the United States. Most are state-regulated. About 4,000 doctors have completed a recognized acupuncture training program.

Look for an acupuncture practitioner who is licensed and credentialed. And, check with your insurer before you start treatment to see whether acupuncture will be covered for your condition.

If you would like to read more columns, you can order a copy of “How To Be A Healthy Geezer” at www.healthygeezer.com. All Rights Reserved © 2013 by Fred Cicetti.

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Lifestyles After 50 • May 2013 • page 17

When Every Second Counts Stroke Center Accreditation Makes The Difference

When faced with the symptoms of stroke, every second counts. That’s why Edward White Hospital, Largo Medical Center, Northside Hospital and St. Petersburg General Hospital are committed to the highest standard of emergency care and we are proud to have achieved The Joint Commission’s Accreditation as Advanced Primary Stroke Centers. Northside Hospital is one of the only hospitals in the area to be designated as a Comprehensive Stroke Center by the state.

Warning Signs of Stroke: • Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body • Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding • Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes • Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination • Sudden, severe headache with no known cause

When showing signs of Stroke, or in case of emergency, always dial 911 and ask to be taken to a Certified Advanced Primary Stroke Center.

To get an educational stroke brochure call:

1-855-422-2228 www.EdwardWhiteHospital.com www.LargoMedical.com www.NorthsideHospital.com www.StPeteGeneral.com

Lifestyles After 50 • May 2013 • page 18

Medicare Answers D

ear Marci: My pharmacist told me that my Medicare prescription drug plan will cover my drug, only if I undergo step therapy.

What is step therapy? —Bria

Dear Bria, Step therapy is a type of coverage restriction that Medicare prescription drug plans, also known as Part D plans, place on certain drugs.

If your Part D plan requires you to try step therapy, this means that you must try a similar, less expensive drug to treat your condition before the plan will cover the drug that was originally prescribed to you.

If your doctor feels that step therapy may be harmful to your health or that the cheaper drug may not be as effective as the prescribed drug, ask your doctor to help you request an exception to the plan’s coverage rules.

Lifestyles After 50 • May 2013 • page 19

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, 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 (727) 599-1390.

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(727) 828-3500

Lifestyles After 50 • May 2013 • page 20

5 Myths About

Massage Therapy

H

ow long have people been enjoying massages? Try centuries! Evidence can be found in Egyptian tombs and ancient Chinese medical texts.

Today’s massage therapists manipulate tissue to achieve deep relaxation and promote healing.

Applying skillful touch and pressure, they help treat injuries and health problems. Massage therapy can also prevent injury and enhance wellness.

But some myths about massage therapy persist. Below, Center for Integrative Medicine massage therapist Tracy Segall helps counter misconceptions.

Health Myth 1: A massage is a massage —no matter where you go.

Fact: Not all massages are created equal. In the spa setting, massage techniques involve the whole body and promote relaxation. Massage therapy in a clinical or hospital setting is given by licensed professionals who are trained to find and focus on problem areas.

You may come in with backache, for example, and learn that the problem begins in your ankles. Massage therapists promote healing and may work with other medical professionals to improve the results of treatment.

Myth 2: Massage therapy mainly involves moving muscles.

Fact: Massage does more than manipulate muscles. Massage can stretch tightened areas of the fascia, a seamless tissue layer connecting muscles, bones and organs. Massage can manually move fluids to loosen joints, reduce swelling and make movement easier. For example, synovial fluid, which normally lubricates the joints, can build up painfully in arthritic joints. And lymph, a fluid that normally moves through the body to fight infection, can cause painful swelling.

Massage may help increase circulation of the blood, which moves nutrients through the body and speeds healing.

Myth 3: The effects of massage are temporary.

Fact: A good massage therapist does more than address temporary aches and pains. He or she wants you to be as comfortable as possible after the massage’s effects wear off. Muscles have a long memory. Holding them in an awkward position—such as craning your neck forward to see a computer at work—can cut off nerve pathways. This triggers neck and shoulder tension, upper back pain, and sometimes numbness and tingling down through the hands. Regular massages let a therapist address your pain patterns and re-educate muscles to improve body mechanics and posture.

Myth 4: Massages don’t help migraines—lying down in a dark room is the only cure.

Fact: Massage therapy is a complementary treatment for migraine headaches. Applying pressure to trigger points in the neck, shoulders, head and even face can help release tension. This may interrupt pain signals that would otherwise travel up to the blood vessels supplying the brain. Problems in the way these blood vessels function are believed to produce migraine symptoms: severe headache, visual disturbances, nausea and light sensitivity.

Myth 5: Don’t interrupt a therapist during a massage, even if it hurts.

Fact: Massage therapy is unlikely to be painful. You may feel uncomfortable while a massage therapist applies deep pressure to release a “knot” of muscle tissue. But if pain or discomfort persist, speak up. Sensations that are painful in a “good” way should be temporary.

Don’t hesitate to talk to your massage therapist about any discomfort. He or she will want to know and will make adjustments accordingly.

Dead Men Do Tell Tales

W

e hear it all the time: “Everything has changed.” It seems to be even more true than you might think. Think about this for a minute: The Twitter for the president of the United States ranks No. 6, trailing behind rock stars Justin Bieber and Katy Perry by millions of followers.

But have celebrities always trumped achievers for public attention?

Sociologist Patrick Nolan decided to test the notion that public fascination with celebrities had grown during the 20th century while interest in achievers or producers such as scientists, inventors or industrialists and religious figures had waned.

Notable Deaths Using The New York Times obituaries as a cultural barometer, he analyzed 100 years of obits from 1900 – 2000, working from the newspaper’s “notable deaths” section. Nolan expected his theory to hold true, but

what he didn’t expect to find was just how strong the evidence would be.

“Most striking are the simultaneous increases in celebrity obituaries and declines in religious obituaries. They document the increasing secularization and hedonism of American culture at a time when personal income was rising and public concern was shifting away from the basic issues of survival,” Nolan said.

“The magnitude of these trends is seismic. While the Greeks may have looked to their gods for guidance and entertainment, we’ve turned increasingly to our celebrities – entertainers and athletes.”

The results showed that obituaries of entertainers and athletes steadily rose in rank across the 20th century, moving from seventh in 1900, to first in 1975 and 2000, at which point they accounted for 28 percent of obits.

Religious obits in 1900? 4th in rank.

In 2000? not even one among the Notable Deaths. A similar pattern was

seen among manufacturing and industry-related obits, and business/finance obits “halved over the century,” he said.

Why the differences?

We live in a time of surplus, of producing more than what is needed to keep people clothed, fed and housed.

Nolan said, “Surplus creates options. A person who once made $5 beyond their basic needs for food and shelter had to decide whether to save it or buy something. A person who makes more than $100 after paying their bills has more options. That’s when thinking shifts from survival to how to spend one’s time, including leisure activities. The economy has generated this potential.”

It’s easier to lazily cater to our passions, pace and appetites with plenty of money. Nolan said, “Obesity wasn’t a major problem 100 or 200 years ago when people struggled to get enough food. Now we’re banning 16-ounce sodas and cutting down fast-food in school cafeterias.” Newswise

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Lifestyles After 50 • May 2013 • page 21

The Wisdom of “Rhoda”

BY STAN CRAIG

R

ecently Valerie Harper, best known for playing Rhoda Morgenstern on TVs “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” and its spinoff, “Rhoda,” was diagnosed with a rare brain cancer and told she has as little as three months to live. Both in real life and in the roles she has played, Valerie Harper comes across as someone who is filled with life, with a great sense of humor and a bright smile.

Retirement Living Valerie Harper knows what we all know—that every member of our family, everyone we are acquainted with, everyone—will die. Beyond that, here is the wisdom of “Rhoda:”

• Immortality is not reality.

• Talking about death can lift away the curtain of fear.

Talking about death can allow us to prepare ourselves and our family for what we all know is inevitable. A living will is a vital document that every hospital will ask about upon patient admission. A durable power of attorney for healthcare allows you to appoint someone to speak on your behalf if you are no longer capable of doing so.

Appointing an executor, writing a final letter of gratitude, preparing and planning your own funeral or memorial service can take away much of the uncertainty surrounding serious illness and death.

There is even medical evidence that

understanding, discussing and accepting hospice and palliative care can extend your life. Harper says in her interview, “It feels awfully good to be open and honest, face it and see what you can do.”

• Optimism is a gift we give ourselves and those around us.

Even in the midst of the sadness of a terminal and incurable brain disease, Valerie Harper remains hopeful and optimistic. “I am more than hopeful,” she says. “I have an intention to live each moment fully.”

She had a choice to either sit at home in a dark room, buried in grief, or to step out, face what was coming and do so with grace, dignity. The choice she made sends a powerful message to all of us.

• Living each day as fully as possible makes it possible to face even difficult days.

Her form of cancer is a rare disease attacking the fluid-filled membrane

IND

IAN

RO

CKS

RD

S

Nearly all of us live our lives as if we are immortal. Procrastination is one of the key traits that every human shares,

especially when it comes to preparing for the end of life. We somehow believe that death is going to happen to someone else. At least 5 of 10 of adults who have family do not have a will. Without a will, the state will decide everything.

That can have tragic consequences.

L A R G O

E BAY DR

Valerie Harper, “Rhoda”

around her brain and is being treated with chemotherapy. Even so, she is planning to appear on an upcoming episode of a series,” Hot in Cleveland,” that will unite many cast members from the “Mary Tyler more Show.”

“I’m alive. I’m feeling good. I’m trying to live every moment as much as I can.”

It’s an attitude we would expect from someone as filled with life as “Rhoda.”

Just knowing what Valerie Harper knows can make a difference both now and tomorrow for you and for your family.

Stan Craig is author of “ForeTalk: 7 Critical Conversations for Living in the Season of Now.”

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Love You, Mom W

hat would motherhood have been like without the late Erma Bombeck’s humor?

Have a laugh for Mother’s Day.

teasing the dog when he wasn’t teasing the dog and who had to wear girls boots the last time it snowed. – Erma Bombeck

Mothers have to remember what food each child likes or dislikes, which one is allergic When your mother to penicillin and hamster fur, asks, “Do you want who gets carsick and who isn’t a piece of advice?” kidding when he stands outside it’s a mere formality. Erma Bombeck, 1927 – 1996 the bathroom door and tells you It doesn’t matter if what’s going to happen if he you answer yes or no. You’re going doesn’t get in right away. It’s tough. If to get it anyway. – Erma Bombeck they all have the same hair color they tend to run together. – Erma Bombeck All of us have moments in our lives that test our courage. Taking children My theory on housework is, if the into a house with white carpet is item doesn’t multiply, smell, catch one of them. – Erma Bombeck on fire or block the refrigerator door, let it be. No one cares. Why Everyone is guilty at one time or should you? – Erma Bombeck another of throwing out questions that beg to be ignored, but mothers seem to The age of your children is a key have a market on the supply. “Do you factor in how quickly you are served want a spanking or do you want to go in a restaurant. We once had a waiter to bed?” “Don’t you want to save some in who said, “Could I get you your of the pizza for your brother?” “Wasn’t check?” and we answered, “How about there any change?” – Erma Bombeck the menu first?” – Erma Bombeck Have you any idea how many children it takes to turn off one light in the kitchen? Three. It takes one to say, “What light?” and two more to say, “I didn’t turn it on.” – Erma Bombeck I remember buying a set of black plastic dishes once, after I saw an ad on television where they actually put a blowtorch to them and they emerged unscathed. Exactly one week after I bought them, one of the kids brought a dinner plate to me with a large crack in it. When I asked what happened to it, he said it hit a tree. I don’t want to talk about it. – Erma Bombeck Kids have little computer bodies with disks that store information.

They remember who had to do the dishes the last time you had spaghetti, who lost the knob off the TV set six years ago, who got punished for

When mothers talk about the depression of the empty nest, they’re not mourning the passing of all those wet towels on the floor, or the music that numbs your teeth, or even the bottle of capless shampoo dribbling down the shower drain. They’re upset because they’ve gone from supervisor of a child’s life to a spectator. It’s like being the vice president of the United States. – Erma Bombeck

Who, in their infinite wisdom, decreed that Little League uniforms be white?

Certainly not a mother. – Erma Bombeck

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Lifestyles After 50 • May 2013 • page 23

Alzheimer’s VS The Bucket List—Making Every Minute Count playing the drums or traveling the country in their RV. They even decided to learn Spanish, and joined a Spanish church in Palmetto and back up north so they would have some way to practice.

They soon made fast friends.

BY TRACIE SCHMIDT

I

f someone told you that you only had about 10 years left to enjoy life to its fullest, what would you do?

Patti Kuhn, a retired teacher and nurse, knew she was at risk for Alzheimer’s disease; both her mother and grandmother had it. She went in for testing at NYU to be sure.

“I’m in seven research studies,” she said. “The first study I was in determined that I have the gene for Alzheimer’s. I also found out that parts of my brain are unable to efficiently metabolize the glucose it needs to run.

There are other things in my body that indicate I will probably have Alzheimer’s in five to ten more years,” she told me.

Given that diagnosis at the age of 60, Kuhn decided to set out and learn and do everything that she always wanted to do with what time she had remaining to her. Where to begin? Dancing, she said.

The Bucket List Kuhn spends winter in Palmetto and summer in Pennsylvania. She started with swing dancing lessons and joined a local Kuhn in Las Vegas team up north. at the 2006 Senior Kuhn impressed America Pageant her teammates so much that she was asked to perform for Senior America as a contestant for Ms. Senior Pennsylvania.

“I wasn’t allowed to have a live partner, so I made a dummy,” she said, hoisting a manikin in a WWII uniform, hat and shades next to her. “He’s named Sam, after his Uncle Sam, and I performed and won Ms. Senior Pennsylvania dancing to the song “Bugle Boy.” She went on to the Senior America competition from there and eventually became involved in the organization, performing for senior events, nursing homes, retirement centers and hospitals, “just encouraging people to get up and move, and enjoy life and keep learning,” she said.

The most rewarding part of her journey, Kuhn mentioned, is the people

Lifestyles After 50 • May 2013 • page 24

Patti Kuhn, “Sam” and Jerry Hottinger.

she meets. At the VA hospitals she visits, Sam in his uniform often Flying lessons: power brings back strong memories. glider and helicopter.

“We meet wonderful, wonderful people with “At both Spanstories,” Kuhn said. ish churches “When we danced, a lady they don’t speak called me over and told any English. We me the whole story of her went in knowhusband who served and ing only ‘Si’ and had Agent Orange and ‘No,’ but we died. So I dedicated that persisted with one song to her husband that and even Richard. I cry a lot, just though we get a because people’s lives touch me.” lot of things confused, we have a good But even Sam could only keep up for time with them and they have a good so long; Kuhn needed a true partner. time laughing at us,” Kuhn smiled.

She found one in Jerry Hottinger, a retired statistician and mathematician. On The Road With Patti “Jerry went to work for 35 years, “I met Jerry five years ago on a 8 to 5, and all of a sudden I come dance team. He’s a ballroom dancer along and his life turned upside and didn’t really know swing, so down,” Kuhn said about her partner.

I taught him swing and he taught I asked Jerry Hottinger why me ballroom. Now we’re partners he decided to take on all of in the dance of life,” Kuhn said.

It was only the beginning for the two of these activities as well.

“We met at a turning point in our them. Hottinger shared Kuhn’s passion lives,” he replied. “Basically, we both for trying new things, and it soon took wanted to do things we didn’t do them beyond dancing into volunteering earlier in life now, while we are physiwith the IRS, preparing taxes for senior cally and mentally fit. What we do is citizens and low-income residents. She usually something new and challenggot a real estate license, motorcycle ing. Our only regrets are if we don’t license and pilot’s license at age 60 do something we could have done.” and flies a Robinson 44 helicopter for I asked him how he felt when he the coastguard on search and rescue learned that Patti was at risk for and observation missions. Hottinger Alzheimers, and if he was prepared is learning boat crew duties as well. for how it may change their life.

When they’re not volunteering, “When she told me very early on, I you can find them checking other knew I wanted to be there for her and things off the list: skiing, golfing, help as best I could if it did indeed kayaking, entering the Senior Games,

happen,” he said. “At this time, it is hard to believe that it will happen. But if it does, I think it will be much later in life. To be prepared, I try to learn from her and others (including staff at NYU and researchers) coping with the disease and to be as prepared as possible.”

There are two things about Patti that he believes will never change, no matter what: her determination and adventurousness.

Fighting Alzheimer’s Not only are Kuhn and Hottinger doing all of this for the fun of it, but studies suggest that the onset of Alzheimer’s may be slowed or prevented by regular physical and mental activity.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, in the study of 800 men and women aged 75 and older, those who were more physically active, more mentally active or more socially engaged had a lower risk for developing dementia. And those who combined these activities did even better.

Physical exercise, even a limited amount of light exercise like walking, gardening or doing yoga for 30 minutes a day, helps blood flow to the brain and wards off Alzheimer’s risk factors like heart attacks, strokes and diabetes. And keeping the brain active through enriching activities and social experiences helps create new mental pathways, generate new brain cells and strengthen old connections.

So the future is not necessarily set in stone for Patti Kuhn, and while she has taken on more activities than most people would attempt at once, she shows no sign of slowing down.

“You know, a lot of people think that I’m crazy for doing all of this, and that’s okay because I’m old, I don’t really care what other people think.” she laughs. “I’m doing it for myself. Knowing that I have the gene and I have maybe five or ten more years, that does make a difference.

But time is short for everyone; we never know how short our time is.”

Her next great adventure: becoming a magician’s assistant. Keep an eye out for Patti, Jerry and Sam—you never know where they’ll turn up next.

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Know Your A-Fib Options There are new treatment options available for atrial fibrillation to reduce symptoms and improve your heart’s rhythm, including innovative CryoAblation therapy, which Northside Hospital is proud to be the only hospital in the county to provide.

Wednesday, May 29 • 12:00 Noon presented by Francisco Cardona, MD – Cardiac Electrophysiologist Northside Hospital Auditorium • 6006 49th Street N, St. Petersburg (2nd floor of Medical Office Plaza next to hospita

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What To Expect When Going to the ER Knowing what to expect on a trip to the ER can provide reassurance to you and your family. We take care of all your emergencies every single day.

Monday, May 13 • 10:30 a.m. presented by Frank Biondolillo, DO – Emergency Medicine Medical Director, St. Petersburg General Hospital Emergency Department Freedom Square • 7800 Liberty Lane, Seminole

HEART ATTACK 101: What is a STEMI? Learn the signs and symptoms of heart attacks thanks to the expertise of Dr. Klein.

Friday, May 31 • 12:00 Noon presented by Jesse Klein, DO – Interventional Cardiologist Largo Medical Center • 201 14th Street SW, Largo

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Lifestyles After 50 • May 2013 • page 25

BY FYLLIS HOCKMAN

“T

Innsbruck

he slower you walk, the sooner you’ll get there.” Those words, uttered by Wolfgang Wippler as we climbed a mountainside trail in Austria, seemed to make little sense.

It wasn’t long, though, before their truth became evident. I began to pant due to exertion and the Innsbruck, the thin air at 7,500 feet above historic capital of the sea level. Next to go were Tyrol region since my legs, increasingly grateful 1420, is a good place for our snail-like pace. As to begin an explorawe caught and then passed a tion. In Old Town, younger couple who had becobblestone streets gun the climb minutes before are lined by elegant us at a faster gait, I understood multi-story 15th and my guide’s tortoise-and-hare Goldenes Dachl 16th century houses approach to walking up a mountain.

(Golden Roof) and buildings capped That was my introduction to hiking by onion-shaped in the Tyrolean Alps, sheer peaks domes.

Some of the Renaissance that rise sharply from green-carpeted and Baroque buildings today house valleys in the western panhandle of cafes and souvenir shops, but even Austria. If mention of Austria conjures those nods to modern commercialism up images of tiny villages of flowerbedecked chalets, cows and sheep graz- can’t hide their graceful facades.

The most famous and photographed ing on hillsides so steep you wonder highlight is the Goldenes Dachl how they stand, and people who cling (Golden Roof), a graceful third-story proudly to their traditions, you’re balcony built in 1420 on what became probably picturing the state of Tyrol.

Emperor Maximilian’s Innsbruck residence. Covered by more than 2,600 gilded copper tiles, it served as a royal box from which to view tournaments Vienna is aptly famous for its architectural treasures, musical riches, and festivities in the square below. atmospheric coffeehouses and sinfully The “holiday villages” tempting, artery-clogging, whipped Along with its architectural riches, cream-covered desserts. But the museums and other treasures, Innscraggy mountains, lush alpine meadbruck provides a perfect home base for ows and gentle valleys dotted by toyexcursions into the surrounding counlike villages that characterize the Tyrol tryside. The offering of inviting small have a unique magic of their own. towns includes 25 “holiday villages.”

Travel

Lifestyles After 50 • May 2013 • page 26

Accommodations include hotels, bed-and-breakfast facilities and farmhouses that welcome guests. Driving throughout the compact region is easy, on well-paved and clearly marked roads.

An alternative is the excellent public transportation system, which includes postal buses, trains and cable cars that provide easy access throughout the area.

Traveling to several of the Tyrolean villages around Innsbruck, I first was struck by their similarities. A graceful church usually occupies the central position. Traditional alpine houses—made of pine that has weathered to a rich, dark patina, and balconies festooned with an explosion of colorful flowers—stand adjacent to rambling farmhouses up to 500 years old that were enveloped as the towns grew around them.

Lovely miniature places of worship, often built and used by several neighbors, are enticing. Many of these tiny chapels, most with only four to eight narrow pews, were constructed during

times of plague, as convenient places at which to pray for health and for the souls of the dead. Today, they are used primarily for local funeral services.

Each mountain village has intriguing differences. Seefield, a town of about 4,000 residents, is only a 15-minute ride outside Innsbruck up a winding, hilly road. Although one of the more touristy villages, it doesn’t present a crowded feeling in summer. Of special interest is the Baroque Seekirchl Church, with its eight little pews.

The town of Igls helped launch the area’s tourism business beginning in the 1920s. The focus then, as now, was on health and the clear mountain air that visitors come to breathe.

Little Lans is known for several outstanding restaurants and for a lake area where locals gather to swim, sun and socialize.

Gasse is easy to miss. Home to only about three dozen families, the village offers an opportunity to see mailbox-like structures in front of homes that are used by residents to deposit a note with their order for fresh bread, which the local baker leaves the next morning.

Whenever I hike now, even near home, I conjure up these and other images of the Tyrolean area of Austria in all of its beauty. I’ll also remember and abide by Wolfgang Wippler’s wise words of advice.

For more information, contact the Austrian National Tourist Office at 212-944-6880 or austria.info.

A Truly Taxing Discounts ��Insurance �For ��Mature ���Question �Drivers ���

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BY MARK PILARSKI

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ear Mark: I have a question regarding my tax liability on a win. I am a slot payer who occasionally hits jackpots above $1,200. I have always declared my wins, but never deducted my losses, mostly because I fail to document them. Any suggestions would be welcome. — Phil D.

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statement should show three totals on it: coin-in, coin-out, and net win/loss.

By the way, you can only offset your jackpot wins against losses as long as you itemize your deductions, rather than taking the standard deduction on your tax return. Gambling losses can just be used to counterbalance gambling winnings during that same tax period, plus, you may not carry losses forward, or back, to any other tax year.

For documenting your gambling losses, I recommend you buy the Lady Luck Gambling Diary. This diary complies with revenue procedure 77 – 29 and can be had for as little as $3 at the Gamblers Book Club (gamblersbookclub.com), or call 1-800-522-1777.

Remember, Phil, the burden of proof falls on your shoulders, so the better your records, the better your chances of surviving an audit.

Reportable gambling winnings, Phil, can come from the casino games as well as lotteries, online poker, raffles, bingo, horse racing, Tiddlywink tournaments—you name it. If it’s any form of gambling wins, you’re on the hook to Uncle Sam for your windfall. Fortunately, the Internal Revenue Service also allows you an offset to those taxes by reporting your losses, just so long as you keep impeccable records. Gambling Dear Mark: You always state, “set Takeare Your Class winnings reported on taxOnline! form loss limits and win goals.” Is it 1040 on the Other Income Line. an aunrealistic goal when playing • Study at your leisure, 24 hours day, 7 days a week.

As a loss-claimant, you will need to blackjack to buy-in for $100 and try to • Simplyyour read course substantiate lossthe claims with amaterials online and then answer win $500 – $1,000? Do you feel this is flawlessly descriptive a fewdocumented, quiz questions. possible or improbable? — Steve R. gambling diary.

Yourneed gambling • There is no to attend boring classes or listen to diary should have the date and type Glued to a Naugahyde stool at long lectures. of gambling event, name and location a blackjack game with a hundred • After of course we will issue a state-certified of the casino,completion, poker room, racetrack, bucks expecting to win $1,000 is, etc., table or cate slot machine certifi for younumber to turn intoatyour company best, insurance improbable. Odds-on youto wherereceive the gambling took place and your discount for a three yearyour period. will lose C-note long before total dollar amount lost. You are also you win $500, let alone a grand. permitted to use canceled checks, What I meant by “win goals” was Take Your Mature On The Internet! airline tickets, credit-card cashDriver Course “realistic” win goals, like a 50 – 100 advances, percent return on your original If youbank havewithdrawal a Floridastatements Driver’s License and are 55 years of$100 made at the casino, legitimate losing stake, 500 or 1000 percent on your agestubs or older, you statements are now eligible to not complete motor vehicle betting and yearly money. True winners know how to accident prevention thatquit will allow to receive a of your wins and losses fromcourse the when theyyou are ahead, and that’s casino as additional confirmation. mandatory reduction on your insurance rate forwin three years. by taking the small and running.

For those who use a Player’s Card, What I am not asking you to do here which I highly recommend, your total is Florida Department ofquit Highway Safetystreak, but, Steve, on a winning action is recorded with the casino I don’t want you to lose it all chasing & Motor Vehicle Approved Course maintaining a paper trail copy of your the near impossible. (SENIOR WIRE) win/loss total that you can request as proof of your play. To get access Gambling Wisdom of the Month: to your win/loss record from your “Poker, n. A game said to be Player’s Card, just call the casino and request it. The casino will send played with cards for some you a statement, sometimes upon purpose to this lexicographer written request, recapping your unknown.” — Ambrose Bierce play for that year. Typically, your

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

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Lifestyles After 50 • May 2013 • page 27 4/10/13 3:32 PM

F

ifty years ago David Leong was struggling for Springfield, Missouri, locals to accept foods from his homeland in China.

He created Chef David Leong and cashew chicken his son Chef Wing Yee. Photo: Springfield to serve at his Visitors Bureau.

Leong’s Tea House and within a few years “Springfield -Style Cashew Chicken” appeared on menus coast to coast.

To make his Cashew Chicken, Laong took fried chicken chunks and covered them with Chinese oyster sauce, cashews and chopped green onion.

Here are two versions of the classic that use healthier chicken breast rather than the classic fried chicken:

Cashew Chicken

1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes 1 Tbsp cornstarch Salt and pepper 2 Tbsp vegetable oil 6 cloves garlic, minced 8 scallions, white and green parts separated, each cut into 1-inch pieces 2 Tbsp rice vinegar 3 Tbsp hoisin sauce 3/4 cup raw cashews (4 ounces), toasted White rice, cooked

Toss chicken with cornstarch until chicken is coated; season with salt and pepper.

In a large nonstick skillet, heat 1 Tbsp. oil over medium heat. Cook half the chicken, tossing often, until browned, about 3 minutes. Transfer to a plate.

Add remaining oil and chicken to skillet along with the garlic and white parts of scallions. Cook, tossing often, until chicken is browned, about 3 minutes. Return first batch of chicken to pan. Add vinegar; cook until evaporated, about 30 seconds.

Add hoisin sauce and 1/4 cup water; cook, tossing, until chicken is cooked through, about 1 minute.

Remove from heat. Stir in scallion greens and cashews. Serve immediately over white rice, if desired.

(Hoisin sauce is used both at the table and as a seasoning in cooking.)

Cashew Chicken Salad

Cooked chicken strips 1 (12-ounce) container cole slaw 1 (8.5-ounce) can mandarin oranges in light syrup, drained 1/3 cup cashews, chopped 1 Tbsp olive oil, optional

Slice chicken strips diagonally.

In a bowl, toss together all ingredients. Reserve some cashews for garnish and serve.

(Food Network’s Semi-Homemade Cooking)

Outdoor Activities

Fort De Soto Turns 50 elebrate the 50th anniversary of the park on May 11 beginning with a sea oat planting at 9 am (sign up at 8 am). Other events include a re-dedication ceremony and water ski show at 10:30 am, as well as an afternoon of music, barbecue, giveaways and exhibits.

Fort De Soto Park, St. Petersburg.

More info at 727-582-2267 or www.pinellascounty.org/park.

C

Celebrate Forest Day On May 18, join other outdoor enthusiasts at Brooker Creek Preserve in Tarpon Springs for sessions on a wide variety of forest-related topics. Choose one or all of the following: Forestry Hike (9 – 10:30 am); Forest Hydrology (11 – 11:45 am); Bugs of the Forest (1 – 2 pm); and Tree Identification (2:30 – 3:30 pm). Free (registration required) at 727-453-6800.

Lifestyles After 50 • May 2013 • page 28

Learn Online Networking Skills T

he AARP is not just your Mother’s Early Meal Deal Discount program anymore. The AARP is acutely aware of the changing senior demographic and now provides a tangible way to connect seniors to seniors utilizing technology to stave off isolation.

AARP now has a dating site— aarp.org/dating. The organization wanted to get in the game because they were aware that isolation is a big issue for older people, according to AARP’s Nataki Edwards.

He said, “It’s not necessarily about getting married. It’s about the companionship and having fun things to do with someone else.”

Senior Citizens Service of Clearwater provides a place and classes for being with others whie learning computer

basics or exploring the virtual world of dating which so many seniors have found empowering and fulfilling.

Class sizes are limited to 8 to 10.

Advance reservations can be made by calling 727-442-8104. Enrollment is on a first come, first served basis.

Beginner classes are Monday, Wednesday, Friday.

“Beyond Basics” classes are on Tuesdays and Thursdays. These sessions will cover email, surfing the web (including dating websites), downloading photos and intermediate troubleshooting. In addition to the classes, use of the computers is provided to the senior community free of charge.

Facilities are located at 1204 Rogers Street, Clearwater.

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Lifestyles After 50 • May 2013 • page 30

n the day I was born, the nurse wrapped me in a pink baby blanket and brought me to Mama who took one look and began to cry. The nurse chalked it up to postpartum depression, so she was unprepared for what happened next.

“I don’t know whose baby this is, but it’s NOT mine,” Mama wailed. “Take her back and bring me MY baby.” The nurse persisted that it was her baby.

Mama took another look and shook her head. “There is simply no way I gave birth to a child this ugly. Take her back. Now.”

Humor I don’t know who convinced Mama otherwise, but I went home with her and she decided to turn me into a Shirley Temple doppelganger.

She often recited the tale of my first day on earth while attempting to transform me into Shirley. She sang, whistled and hummed to me.

She put bubbles in my bath water.

When I looked at myself in the mirror, Shirley Temple did not look back at me.

On my seventh birthday, instead of a new doll she gave me a Toni home permanent. Mama said Shirley didn’t play with dolls; Mama said Shirley had curls. Ringlets. And since Shirley was the holy grail of seven-year-old girls and their mothers, she was determined to put enough ringlets in my hair to make my head bounce like a slinky.

She plopped me down in the bathroom one morning to begin the arduous work of transformation. Home perms were the rage at that time and they were cheap. Instead of paying $15 for a professional perm, the frugal

housewife could have curls for $2.

It was a nobrainer for Mama.

The permanent wave solution smelled like rotten eggs, but the stink was nothing compared to the tight curlers Mama used on me.

“Ow! Ow! That hurts,” I whined for the three hours it took her to wrap each strand of hair on my head for what she hoped would be transformed into sausagelike ringlets, Shirley-style. Madam Makeover continued winding me up and nearly snatching me baldheaded.

“All done,” she finally announced, grinning like she had discovered plutonium in the back yard.

When I looked at myself in the mirror, Shirley Temple did not look back at me. The stringy blonde locks that had previously hung down to my shoulders like coils of dirty rope were no longer there. I found not one ringlet either sausage-style, banana-style or Shirleystyle. Corkscrews sprang from my head in no particular direction, poking out harem-scarem from here to Sunday as if each lock of hair had been forced into an electric socket till it sizzled.

Daddy came home right about that time. He took a long look at me as if I were somebody else’s child and then suggested to Mama that they might ought to take me to see Doctor Cone.

She spun around big as you please and looked him square in the eye.

“She’s not sick. She’s my little Shirley Temple girl. Isn’t she pretty?”

“Oh for gawd’s sake,” Daddy said before moseying on down to the kitchen to pour himself a stiff one.

At school the next morning, Miss Dibble announced, “Today is school picture day. Be sure to smile for the camera.” To this day, I totally hate Toni home perms.

Last Month’s Answers

April Sudoku

Think it through; you’ll get it!

1. What do you call a man who spent all summer at the beach?

Tangent

Jillian Coss is last month’s winner!

Congratulations!

Win Great Prizes!

New winner selected each month

Good Luck!

May Sudoku

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

Send your answers along with your name, address and telephone number to: NEWS CONNECTION USA, INC. P.O. BOX 638, SEFFNER, FL 33583

WIN! WIN! WIN! GREAT PRIZES!

Sudoku muST bE REcEIvEd by mAy 21, 2013

Word Search

2. What do you say when you see an empty parrot cage?

Polygon 3. What do you call a crushed angle?

A Rectangle 4. What did the Italian say when the witch doctor removed the curse?

Hexagon 5. What did the little acorn say when he grew up?

Geometry

6. What do you call an angle which is adorable?

Acute Angle

7. What do you use to tie up a package?

A Chord

8. What do you call a fierce beast?

A Line

9. What do you call more than one L? A Parallel 10. What do you call people who are in favor of tractors?

Protractors

11. What should you do when it rains?

Coincide

Word Search May

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 April

Howard Granert is last month’s winner!

Congratulations!

Send your answers along with your name, address and telephone number to: News CoNNeCtioN UsA, iNC. P.o. BoX 638, seFFNeR, FL 33583

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

Mystery Prize!

WIN! WIN! WIN! GREAT PRIZES!

Mystery Prize!

(Puzzles must be received by May 21, 2013.)

Lifestyles After 50 • May 2013 • page 31

Lifestyles After 50 • May 2013 • page 32

&

Mr. Modem

by Richard Sherman Sometimes when I drag a file from one location with the intention of placing it in another location, I fumble with the mouse and it winds up in the wrong spot. When that happens, is there some way I can cancel what I just did so I can start over?

MOVING IN SUPPORT A HEALTHY+ HIP! A Second Chance with OFCTRL Z They say you can’t teach old dogs new tricks and I am definitely an older dog. I have been using Windows XP since it came out years ago. Do you have a crystal ball handy so you can tell me how long XP will be around? Thanks Mr. M.

Technically, Windows XP, which was released on October 25, 2001, is “no longer around” in the sense that it was replaced by Vista (released January 30, 2007), Windows 7 (released October 22, 2009), and Windows 8 (released October 26, 2012).

Windows does provide a The fact that XP is no longer the new second chance of sorts in the kid on the block doesn’t mean that it’s form of an Undo keystroke command is the best active and losing weight are your just computer to disappear from for this typeMoving of oopsie.

(It’smedicine. a techni-Keepinggoing two of the ways that you can fight osteoarthritis pain. In fact, for or cause any particular problems other cal term.) The universal Undo comevery pound you lose, that’s four pounds less pressure on each than those associated with any aging mand is CTRL + Z, which works just knee. For information on managing pain, go to fightarthritispain.org. operating system. Sometimes older opabout everywhere within Windows. erating systems become less cooperative You can use it copying or moving than they were in their youth—someobjects, pasting and even when editing a document or spreadsheet. (If thing to which I can relate. If that occurs and you have the original XP installation only life had an Undo command...)

• Ride a stationary bike, either an upright or a recumbent version CD, you have the option of having it (whichever is more comfortable).

At first reinstalled.

XP newly installed you may feel some stiffness, but today as youris the same XP newly installed in 2001. joints getaswarm and loosen up you’ll notice motion in your XP hip.

If you improved don’t have the original

installation disk, you’re not out of • Wear shoes that luck.

Windows XPprovide is stillshock available for absorption and comfort. Use inserts purchase.

Look on amazon.com and that further cushion your step. you will find several retailers who still have in its original shrink-wrapped • Theitcartilage in the hip requires box.

Some new PC purchasers opt regular rhythmic movement–loading unloading of your body weight–to toand have Windows 8 removed and keep producing synovial fluid, Windows 7 or XP installed in which its place.

• One of the most pleasurable ways to keep your hips in shape is with water If you are a funny-papers enthusiast, exercises.

When you do exercises in might also GoComics.com ayou swimming pool,enjoy the buoyancy of where you will findthe hundreds of comic the water minimizes load placed upon at the time, stripsyour and body someand, of the bestsame editorial provides resistance.

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and middle-of-the-road •right-leaning, Ordinary swimming is excellent. If you editorial cartoons. site iskeep free, have a kickboard, useThe it: You’ll your but you canshape, upgrade thehelps Pro your legs in great andtothat version hips.

With(gocomics.com/help/pro) or without the kickboard, for do kick: It’s gentle on other your .99the perflutter month which, among hips and most knees.

You can also benefits, eliminates advertising.do helps keep the cartilage pliable and the frog kick and scissors kick ifby For answers tothe your questions plump.

Bicycling and swimming both you’re pain free when you do (As e-mail, or to subscribe to Mr.them.

Modem’s I know this is a strange quesprovide this without applying excessive I’ve mentioned, the frog kick and the tion, but I didn’t know who else I award-winning weekly newsletter, visit force to the hip joint. scissors kick aren’t good(SENIOR for peopleWIRE) with www.MrModem.com. could ask: Is there a site for old comic knee problems because they create too strips, “Smokey Stover?”

• If youspecifically have limited range of motion in much twisting.)

Mr. Modem’s Don’t Miss one hip, engage in gentle stretching or ‘Em Site therun Month Proving definitively thathelp you can • Buoyancy yoga to keep limber.

This will also belts letofyou in the water your hips in alignment, thereby provide excellent results. (And findstay anything online, there miniis in- andwww.getridofthings.com: This site mizing further injury or damage. they’re fun!) You to don’t needyou to know is dedicated helping banish deed a smokey-stover.com siteNever where stretch if there is any pain, and always how to swim to get a great workout common annoyances from your life. you will find Smokey cartoons, as well avoid extreme stretches such as splits. when you’re wet.

Everything from allergies to wrinkles, as Smokey memorabilia. It also includes from adware to unsightly static cling— artist Bill Holman’s other creations, Taken from Prime For Life Functional Fitness For Ageless Living, you will learn how to get rid of it here.

by Randy Raugh, MPT Spooky the Cat and Nuts and Jolts.

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Pierce has been a member of the Society of Certified Senior Advisors since 1998 and has devoted his career to helping individuals plan for the protection of their assets through the use of Medicaid planning, Long Term

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Pierce Financial Advisors Specializes In: • Health Savings Accounts • Co-Pay Prescription Program • Annuity/IRA Maximization • Tax and Investment Planning • Asset Protection Planning • Cost-Effective Life Insurance Planning • Long Term Care Insurance Options • Mortgages Call Pierce Financial Advisors, LLC., today at (813) 417-7824 to learn how they can help you, or stop by their office at Central Pasco Professional Building, 4111 Land O’ Lakes, FL. Lifestyles After 50 • May 2013 • page 33

Join The Florida Orchestra for our

Season Finale Concerts

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for information please return completed form to:

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2012/2013 Season

Tampa Bay Times Masterworks

Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7 Principal Flute Clay Ellerbroek brings to life the wonderfully joyous, playful and tuneful melodies of Liebermann’s Concerto for Flute and Orchestra on this concert with Mendelssohn’s The Hebrides (Fingal’s Cave) and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7.

Tito Muñoz conducts.

May 17 - 19

In honor of Ambassador Mel and Betty Sembler’s 60th wedding anniversary

Tampa Bay Times Masterworks

Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring The concert opens with Messiaen’s symphonic meditation Le offrandes oubliées (The Forgotten Offerings)…followed by the raw energy and breath-taking beauty of nature with the surging seas of sound in Debussy’s La Mer. The evening concludes with the pagan-intoned orchestral power of Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring. Tito Muñoz conducts.

Entries will be collected by News Connection U.S.A. for future promotions, special offers, and marketing.

May 24 & 25 Tickets: $15, $30 & $45 727.892.3337 or www.FloridaOrchestra.org For group savings (10 or more) : 727.362.5443 Lifestyles After 50 •1 May 2013 • page 34 TFO-Lifestyle50-May.indd

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Please contact me by: o Mail o Phone o E-mail SEND INFORMATION ON AREA(S) CHECKED BELOW INSURANCE: AUTOMOBILES: o Medicare o Automobile Sales o Health o Life o Maintenance and Repairs o Long-term care o Recreational Vehicles HOUSING OPTIONS RESIDENTIAL LIVING: o Independent Living o Mfd/FactoryBuilt Homes o Assisted Living o RV Resort o Senior Apartment o Senior Apartments o In-Home Care o Villa/Condo/Single Family o Alzheimer’s/Dementia Care o Golf Community PERSONAL HEALTHCARE: CAREGIVER RESOURCES o Rehab Hospital o Family Counseling o Physicians o Caregiver Support o Dentists o Dementia Care o Eye Care HOME IMPROVEMENTS: o Hearing o Sunrooms/Home Improvement o Foot Care/Arch Supports o Pools/spas o Weight Loss o A-C Repair/Plumbing/Electrical o Supplements TRAVEL: o Home Health o Cruises o Land Tours o Prescription Drugs o Hotels/ Resorts o Medical Supplies o Local Attractions LEISURE TIME: FINANCIAL/ LAW: o Golf o Funeral Planning o Gambling o Retirement/Estate planning o Boating o Trusts/Wills o Theater o Medicare/Medicaid Assistance o Dining In/Out o Elder Law/Guardianships o Fitness/Gyms/Spas OTHER: SUN

4/9/2013 10:26:46 AM

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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 4119 seeking ChRisTiAn genTLemAn Former airline stewardess and 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. Florida.

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between 62 – 78 years old. I’m 70 YO. Looks younger than age.

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Please be at least 5’5” tall and have enough money to take me out and show me a good time. Tampa area. men seeking Women 4235 WidoWeR seeks WidoW 78 year old recent widower seeks recent widow ages 60 - 80. Lives both in Florida and New York.

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

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Ad Copy • Please Print Neatly • 30 Word Limit

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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).

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MAIL TO: ATTN. / SENIORS GETTING TOGETHER, NEWS CONNECTION, USA, INC. • P.O. BOX 638., SEFFNER, FL 33583

Lifestyles After 50 • May 2013 • page 36

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

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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.

Four Cemetary Lots

The Pier Celebrates 40 Years

T

he St. Petersburg Pier will close to the public on May 31 to make way for a new Pier in 2015.

To celebrate the life of the inverted pyramid, which opened 40 years ago in 1973, a week-long festival will be held from May 25 to 30 at the Pier.

Events will include decades of music

Sylvan Abby, Clearwater West Lawn $8,000 727-446-3739

over the years featuring local performers, historic water ski shows, a Tea Dance, salsa dancing, and on the last day, skytracker lights in the sky, confetti cannons and fireworks. Info: visit stpetepier.com or call 727-821-6443.

Memorial Day Fun

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24

25, 26 Oldsmar Freedom Fest on State Street. Family fun, food, music and more. 10 am to 10 pm. Military salute on Sun. Free. Info: utbchamber.com.

27

Memorial Day Family Fun Fest.

Military dress up/photo ops, arts and crafts, food, rides on WWII vehicles and more. 10 am to 4 pm at Armed Forces History Museum, Largo. $10/adults, $5/youth. 727-539-8371.

27

We Salute You—A Tribute To Our Veterans. May 27.

Outdoors: noon to 4:30 pm. BBQ luncheon, family activities and entertainment. No tickets required.

Indoors: 5 – 10 pm. Dinner, Honor Guard, guest speakers and wartime memorabilia. $10. Both events at Riverside Grill House, Tarpon Springs. 727-474-0382 or www. wesaluteyou.us for tickets/info.

Last Month’s Answers

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Viva Florida at Heritage Village H 19 M eritage Village is celebrating the anniversary of Ponce De Leon’s arrival 500 years ago with exhibits that highlight the historic people, places, events and culture of Florida:

ay through Dec. “For God and Gold:” This new exhibit features reproduction weapons, nautical items, clothing, camp gear, religious items and other items to tell the story of everyday life during the ocean

crossing and the subsequent exploration and colonization of Florida.

Presentation: “Early Footprints in the Sand,” exhibits of pre-Columbian pottery, family crafts and storytelling and a time capsule dedication. Noon to 4 p.m. Free.

Heritage Village is located at 11909 125th St. N., Largo. To learn more, call 727-582-2123.

Lifestyles After 50 • May 2013 • page 37

Lifestyles After 50 • May 2013 • page 38

Bright Stars Senior Idol Winner Announced E

the performance ach year, talentof a lifetime! ed seniors over The Senior 55 years young take IDOL receives the stage to enter$500 and an tain and help raise additional $500 money for senior to donate to the charities throughout Talented seniors from across the the Tampa Bay area. Tampa Bay area competed for the title charity of her The top three acts of Tampa Bay Bright Stars Senior IDOL! choice. Christine has chosen from each of the Pet Pal Animal Shelter to be the four regional shows took the stage on beneficiary; Pet Pals is a no kill, nonMonday, April 1 at Ruth Eckerd Hall profit animal shelter in St. Petersburg. in Clearwater, with Virginia Johnson Over $10,000 was raised at the of Tampa Bay On Demand as this regional shows and donated to the folyear’s Celebrity Hostess and Emcee.

Christine Joyce was chosen by audience lowing nonprofit organizations serving the senior community: Hillsborough vote as the 2013 Bright Stars Senior IDOL! Christine performed a beautiful County – Senior Games; Manatee rendition of “Delilah” and “Somewhere County – Meals on Wheels PLUS; PiOver the Rainbow.” A native of the UK, nellas County – Good Life Games; Tri Christine spoke of her excitement and County (Hernando, Citrus, Pasco and Polk counties) – CARES Elfers Center. appreciation to be a part of the Senior Please check out Brighthouse.com/ IDOL family, and what a thrill it was Community for more info. to finally check this off her bucket list,

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www.lakeneccudah.com Mayor Chuck Bingham invites you to: Take a Video Tour • Read the Weekly Gazette Check Our Community News for Gossip

BRANDON Auto Clinic of Brandon ...... 813-654-8686 Xtreme Powersports ......... 813-626-6060 BROOKSVILLE Sunrunner Automotive ...... 352-596-2314 Master Auto/Air ................. 352-799-6444 Brooksville Transmission.. 352-796-6544 General Auto Parts ........... 352-796-2522 CLEARWATER JDs Cycle Shop ................ 727-827-2994 M & M Ultrasports ............. 727-412-8020 Stouts Auto Service .......... 727-216-6622 DADE CITY Reliance Auto Center ....... 352-567-5281 HOLIDAY NAPA Auto Parts .............. 727-934-4651

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If you or your business would like to get AMSOIL products at Wholesale CALL 800-411-6160

Stamp Honors 500 Years

I

n honor of the 500th anniversary of Florida’s discovery, the US Postal Service issued the 2013 La Florida Forever stamp.

The new stamp celebrates the state’s floral abundance. The four stamps show hibiscus, yellow cannas, morning glories and passionflowers. The stamp pane includes on the selvage an imagined scene of explorers traveling in a small boat along a river or channel surrounded by tropical foliage. La Florida stamps are being issued as Forever® stamps.

$2 OFF for

seniors

Come meet “Winter” the dolphin who lost her tail in a crab trap, now swims freely.

Senior $2offAdmission

(55+)

Good forGood up to Not Not valid with other for6uppeople. to 6 people. valid with otheroffers. offers.

Expires December 2011. Code Code XSCA Expires May 31,31, 2013.

XSCA

Clearwater Marine Aquarium 249 Windward Passage • Clearwater, FL 33767

(727) 441-1790

www.SeeWinter.com Lifestyles After 50 • May 2013 • page 39

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