JANUARY 2014
TM
SINCE 1980 — VolUME 34 • NUMBER 1
Here’s to You, Mrs. Robinson By Nick Thomas
Your hidden strength
PAGe 6
NAVIGATING THE MURKY MODIFICATION PROCESS
PAGE 10
INSURANCE PRODUCTS CAN IMPACT RETIREMENT
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When NASA honored June Lockhart last October, it would have been quite fitting to borrow the above lyrics from a popular Simon and Garfunkel song to salute the 88 year old actress! Best remembered by sci-fi fans for her role of TV space mom Maureen Robinson in the 60s series “Lost in Space,” June told me recently that the NASA recognition was a highlight of her long career, which includes a Tony Award, an Emmy nomination, and a couple of stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. “I was presented with the Exceptional Public Achievement Medal for my work with the space agency,” she explained. “I’ve been to two space shuttle launches and worked with NASA since the 1970s, addressing their employees and traveling on NASA’s behalf to promote the agency. So I’m absolutely thrilled by this recognition. No other actress has received this honor.” One of her memorable experiences occurred during a Space Shuttle mission in 1992. “I called NASA one day and spoke with astronaut Ken Reightler and told him I had a good wake-up song for them to use,” recalled June, referring to “The World is Waiting for the Sunrise,” a catchy 50s hit by Les Paul and Mary Ford. The song held special significance See LOCKHART Page 23
Florida Focuses on Keeping Seniors Safe and Mobile Florida leads the nation with more than 17 percent of its population age 65 years and older, and that number is expected to continue to grow in the years to come. Access to transportation is important to many older Floridians who cherish their independence. With such a large resident population of senior drivers and many more who vacation here during the winter months, it is fitting that Florida observes Older Driver Safety Awareness Week to help ensure seniors can continue enjoying their freedom while doing so in a safe manner. “More than 3 million of our almost 16 million drivers in Florida are age 65 or older,” said Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Executive Director Julie L. Jones. “Being able to remain active and productive members of their communities is important to our older residents, and by highlighting the importance of driver safety, we hope they can continue to safely enjoy this freedom.”
See SENIOR DRIVERS, Page 27
Senior Voice America…in print, on the web and on the air with Health, Wealth & Wisdom. Tune in to AM 1250 WHNZ Monday thru Friday, from 7 to 9 p.m. as Publisher Evan Gold brings you the information to live an active mature lifestyle. ime T w e N ot! Visit our new website, Tampa Bay’s leading news source Sl for seniors, www.seniorvoiceamerica.com.
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Senior Voice America
JANUARY 2014
JANUARY 2014
Senior Voice America
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Health Roundup
Lasik vs. Refractive Cataract Surgery By David Jeffrey, Marketing Director of The Eye Institute of West Florida Most of us probably know someone in their early 20’s or 30’s who has successfully undergone LASIK surgery and no longer needs to wear glasses. The vision correction procedure is over in seconds and most patients are able to see 20/20 without glasses. A LASIK surgeon slightly alters the surface of the cornea to refine the focal point in which objects appear on the retina and minimizes any astigmatism that may cause blurry or double vision. Although the results are alluring, LASIK is not for everyone. As our eyes age, they undergo very different vision changes than when we were younger; therefore, a different procedure may be necessary to correct blurry vision. As people approach their forties and fifties, they tend to push the newspaper a little farther away from their eyes and turn up the lighting to improve their ability to read fine print. This condition, called presbyopia, involves the natural crystalline lens inside the eye and not the cornea. The aging lens of our eyes begins to harden over time, causing the eye muscle to lose its ability to change the shape of the lens. This loss of accom-
modation is what is responsible for adjusting the focal point of objects appearing on our retina and bringing them into sharp focus. When the lens hardens enough it is called a cataract. LASIK, which change the surface of the cornea, will not stop the progression of presbyopia or cataracts. Cataract surgery is the only way to correct cataracts. During cataract surgery, a cataract surgeon replaces the natural lens with a new intraocular lens implant. Even people in their early 50’s are electing to have an early cataract surgery called Clear Lens Replacement (CLR). The benefits of CLR or cataract surgery are better vision, astigmatism correction, and a reduced dependency on glasses all the time. Refractive cataract surgery is different from traditional cataract surgery. Traditional surgery has a limited lens selection and does not correct astigmatism. Refractive cataract surgery, on the other hand, is a customized process that encompasses all the latest technologies available to best restore accommodation and corrects astigmatism. It involves the use of the most advanced lens implants, diagnostic services, operating room technologies and surgeon experience. Although results can vary, an investment to see your very best only comes around
once in a lifetime. Cataract surgery is only performed once. Although refractive cataract surgery and LASIK are two different procedures, they share a similar objective -- to refine vision outcome using a customized approach to vision correction. The surgeon will need to determine which lens implant will best match your lifestyle and use all the latest technologies to ensure the best possible results. Investing in an advanced procedure will require more upfront discussion with your surgeon so he can determine which lens is best for you. A series of presurgical measurements are taken to determine the corrective lens power needed for each eye. During surgery, lasers are used to create very small, one-way entry wounds through the corneal that are designed to heal rapidly. Lasers also soften the cataract for easy removal and can correct any astigmatism or the irregular shape of the cornea with computer accuracy and precision. The most well-equipped surgery centers now offer the new ORA System. During surgery, your surgeon uses the
ORA System to perform a refraction at the time of your procedure to verify presurgical data (measurements) made about lens strength and uses it to determine the most accurate lens implant power to refine your visual results. Refractive cataract surgery may bear additional costs over traditional surgery, but the procedure is more customized for each patient’s individual eye with a clearer outcome. The power to see your very best may depend on age and vision condition. Although LASIK results are what you seek, it may not offer you the corrective procedure suited for your condition. Listen to what your ophthalmologist has to say about your condition and what options can best correct your vision. Don’t be surprised if LASIK is not one of them.
TMTM
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Senior Voice America
JANUARY 2014
FROM THE PUBLISHER TM TM
Senior Voice America, Inc. P.O. BOX 340925 Tampa, FL 33694-0925 Phone (813) 444-1011 • Fax (813) 422-7966 www.seniorvoiceamerica.com Staff Publisher: Evan Gold evan@seniorvoiceamerica.com Associate Publisher: Timm Harmon timm@seniorvoiceamerica.com Managing Editor/Broadcast Producer: Deb Goldman deb@seniorvoiceamerica.com Editor: Julie Heidelberg julie@seniorvoiceamerica.com Creative Director: Lourdes M. Sáenz lourdes@seniorvoiceamerica.com ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES • (813) 444-1011 Timm Harmon timm@seniorvoiceamerica.com
New Year, New You!
Ah, if it was just that easy. Isn’t it amazing the endless marketing messages at the beginning of each year? How you can make yourself over, lose that weight, stop smoking etc. And by the time February or March rolls around, most of us realize we did not get any closer to those goals than we were on December 31st. So what’s the answer? Heck if I know. I have been trying to lose the same 20 pounds for the last three years and each January 1st I say, “THIS YEAR IS GOING TO BE DIFFERENT.” And guess what? It isn’t. I tell you, I do get on that treadmill by January 2nd, I am on the tennis court by the 4th and might even have walked two to three days in the neighborhood by the 7 th of January. But there are those insufferable people that do actually make those commitments and by March or April they have achieved their goal and posted their pics on Facebook and made us all feel like complete and utter losers. You know them, right? One of them lives in Maine and the other one in Phoenix. To their face we tell them how proud we are and then we slink back to our kitchens and stuff our faces with ice cream or Oreos in complete shame. But seriously, what do we do? Well, I say at the beginning of the year we unfriend all of those people we think can easily achieve their goals, because, at the end of the day, they are just going to make us feel bad. Then we get start on realistic goals we feel we can achieve. Find a friend/partner who has similar goals and encourage each other on a daily basis and chart your progress. Limit time with those individuals who you feel are going to encourage you, even just by their behaviors, to backslide. You don’t need to completely cut them off forever, but, for example, if you want to finally quit smoking, don’t put yourself in those old situations that enticed you to smoke until you feel you have kicked the habit. And tune into 1250am WHNZ for our radio show. We have lots of great guests and experts who can encourage you along your journey of self improvement, living a healthy lifestyle or just enjoying life a little more. From all of us at Senior Voice America, we wish you a very Happy and Healthy New Year.
Evan Gold
Join our sales team. For information about opportunities throughout Florida and North America, email timm@seniorvoiceamerica.com.
Contributors
FROM THE editor
Jean Mlincek • Abne M. Eisenberg Ruth Fanovich •David Jeffrey • Allen Borden
Your Attitude Defines You
Robert Killeen • Joe Pippen • June H. Young
Ro Martinez • Nick Thomas • Jon Lynn
There are many clichés to describe the notion that’s on my mind as I face the new year …
• • •
Robert & Chris Maggi Would you like to write for Senior Voice America? Please email editor@seniorvoiceamerica.com
Every cloud has a silver lining. Take the good with the bad. Make lemons out of lemonade.
Senior Voice is a Proud Member of Better Living for Seniors The Guardian Association of Pinellas County The Florida Assisted Living Association Senior Voice America is published monthly and is distributed free of charge, courtesy of its advertisers. Distribution area includes Pinellas, Hillsborough, Pasco, Sarasota and Manatee counties. Articles and advertising contained in this issue do not necessarily reflect the opinion or endorsement of the publisher, who does not verify advertiser claims and reserves the right to refuse or discontinue any advertising.
Tune in to 1250am WHNZ. Monday – Friday From 7-9pm
In our idealistic minds, the world is a beautiful place full of smiles and sunshine, but in reality, bad things happen all the time. How we deal with the “bad” and difficult times when we struggle sometimes defines us more than how we handle the “good” and easy times when we coast. Examples of “taking the high road” and “rising above it all” surround us if we just pause to look for them. For instance, consider a friend who becomes very ill. Suddenly, family and friends appear out of the depths of our personal histories to cheer and comfort us. Certainly, while there is suffering and strife, there is also love and compassion as well. We all face many challenges in our lives – death, divorce, financial stresses, substance abuse – but we do have a choice when we face hard times. If there is one thing in the world we can control, it is our own attitude and how we choose to deal with challenges. If you are searching for a self-improvement goal for 2014, there is infinite space to grow in the category of controlling your thoughts, words and actions, no matter what situation you face.
Julie Heidelberg
JANUARY 2014
Senior Voice America
Health Roundup
How to Manage Your Seasonal Allergies
Unfortunately, beautiful flowers and warm weather can also mean itchy, watery eyes, sneezing fits and nasal congestion. These days, pollen from plants and flowers typically are released earlier in the year than in the past, causing longer allergy seasons according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, which noted that 2012 was one of the worst such seasons on record. While there is no cure-all for seasonal allergies, popular over-thecounter (OTC) medications can provide relief for the most common symptoms. These guidelines can help you better manage your seasonal allergies.
Season for Sneezing Popular OTC antihistamines can provide relief from sneezing, runny noses and irritated, watery eyes by blocking the action of histamine, a chemical in the body that triggers congestion and upper respiratory discomfort.
All Stuffed Up? Decongestants like pseudoephedrine (PSE) relieve a stuffy nose by actually narrowing the blood vessels in nasal passages so you can breathe more easily. PSEs are now located behind the pharmacy counter because they are an ingredient that can be used to make the illegal drug methamphetamine (meth). Rest assured though, PSE has been safely used for decades. If you’re congested, consider treating your symptoms and doing your part to keep your community safer at the same time. Ask your pharmacist about new Nexafed 30mg pseudoephedrine HCl tablets, the next-generation PSE
that provides the same effective relief from nasal congestion as standard PSEs, but with technology that disrupts the extraction and conversion of pseudoephedrine into meth.
Itchy, Watery Eyes Over-the-counter eye drops that are specifically designed to treat allergy symptoms can be found in any drug store and can be very effective at reliving redness and washing away allergens. Also consider using an air purifier or humidifier in your house to help clear the air of possible irritants.
Eat for Allergy Relief According to experts, certain foods you may already be enjoying have allergy-fighting properties. For example, quercetin, found in oranges, broccoli and sweet potatoes, can help reduce your body’s reaction to pollen. Or, try loading up on salmon and walnuts, as omega-3 fatty acids are thought to alleviate itchy eyes and a runny nose. If you have questions or doubts about which medications may be best for you, talk with your pharmacist. And if symptoms worsen or last for more than two weeks, be sure to see your doctor. Rest assured, relief for seasonal allergy symptoms does exist! Visit your local drugstore or the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America’s web site for more information on how to treat seasonal allergies. You can check the daily pollen level in your area at National Allergy Bureau online. There’s no reason to miss out on the warm weather and all fun outdoor activities this time of year has to offer.
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JANUARY 2014
self help
Your Hidden Strength At times of great stress, people from whom we would least expect it rise to the occasion. What accounts for this unexpected display of courage and intestinal fortitude? Whether it is withstanding horrendous torture, surviving unbearable captivity or imprisonment, or winning a battle with cancer, these individuals should be studied to determine what accounts for their hidden strength. During WW II, a quiet and rather shy young man named Audi Murphy was rejected by the Marines and paratroopers because he was only 5’5” tall and weighed only 110 pounds. Finally, accepted into the Army, he distinguished himself by earning 33 medals and awards, plus the most distinguished award, the Congressional Medal of Honor. His bravery was a perfect example of his hidden strength. We all have hidden strengths. Despite the fact that we use only a fraction of our potential brain power, the same might apply to our mental and physical reserve. Slightly built women have been reported to lift the front end of an automobile to rescue their trapped husband. Mothers have been reported to perform equally Herculean tasks to rescue their endangered child. The first step toward realizing your hidden strength is to acknowledge that it exists. Olympic athletes, before entering any competition, must firmly believe that they can win. Before taking an examination, students must also convince themselves that they will do well. Preparedness also helps. Hidden strength is rarely challenged when things go well. It is only when some form of adversity occurs that we become tested. Most people can usually think of some event in their lives where they surprised themselves by overcoming a traumatic incident. Your hidden strength is like a bank account. You have invested it with capabilities that have served you well in the past. When you are threatened by one of life’s difficult trials, it is time to make withdrawals from that bank account. Countless books have been written about how to release your inner strength. They talk about such things as connecting with your spirituality, self-confidence, will-power, seeking out groups that address your problem, meditation, seeing the big
By Professor Abné M. Eisemberg
picture and trusting yourself. None of these approaches will provide you with a magic bullet as a sure-fire way of releasing your inner strength. Whenever the media reports an incident in which someone displayed an unbelievable example of inner strength, its source invariably remains an enigma. Clearly, the source is not tangible like a liver, heart, or spleen, but rather a paranormal phenomenon which defies a simple explanation. Survivors are constantly asked to what do they attribute their survival. Their answers seldom provide others with the secret to harnessing their own inner strength. Each person, by doing some serious and honest soul-searching, will find the answer to the question posed by this article. Professor Eisenberg was born in New York City and now lives in Belleair Bluffs, Fla. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps in World War II. His career consisted of teaching various aspects of interpersonal communication at four leading universities. His publications include 15 textbooks on the art of communicating. Send comments to aeisenberg3@tampabay.rr.com.
JANUARY 2014
Senior Voice America
self help
Oh, For True Communication Twitter. Tweet. Text. What profane-sounding terms for communication and its sacred root meaning “to commune.” On the other hand, twitter, tweet, and text aptly describe today’s electronic language, in my opinion. In my youth, frivolous communication was called chatter. I would like to say that times haven’t changed ... but they have -- drastically. For one, if we engaged in “chattering” back then, we certainly didn’t have a global ear. And we didn’t treat chatter with respect; it was considered an idle engagement with words. Sure, sure -- twittering, tweeting, and texting are legitimate forms of communication, but the abuse and misuse of these new tools is somewhat alarming. In fact, much of our social media communication today is diminishing our ability to really connect with one another -- to share in meaningful, relational, intimate communing. George Bernard Shaw may have been prophetic in describing the problem: “The single biggest problem with communication is the illusion that it has taken place.” When I was in the workforce a couple of years ago, I remember younger co-workers in particular spending their breaks and lunch hour texting, texting, texting. Made me wonder if they knew how to speak, to engage another’s eyes, to realize there were other people in the break room. Smile at me, please; at least say “hello.” Then, if you want to fixate so much on your texting that you walk into a wall -- or off the end of a pier somewhere -- have at it. One of the sad things about “communication” today is that we seem to strip communication devices of their authentic purpose: to communicate. Take email, for example. Back in the day, the “You’ve Got Mail” notice on one’s computer meant there was a personal word from a friend, but anymore email seems to be a vehicle for forwarding YouTube selections or 20 images of Nature’s beauty. Yes, these are entertaining, but “Fwd:” in the subject line usually dashes my hope of one-on-one communication, the thing I long for most in an email. Others are beginning to see that our “social” media formats aren’t all that social. For example, a significant number of Facebook users are taking a long break from “following” their friends on Facebook. Why? They are tired of personal information overload, “communication” that is often narcissistic or egotistical to a fault. So what if you broke your fingernail or had to pee seven times during the night. And how authentic are the hundreds of
“friends” one might have on these social media sites? A former Facebook subscriber recently lamented that 95 percent of his/ her friends wouldn’t get together for a beer “even if I begged them.” For those of us who don’t buy into the social media scene, there’s the ironic consequence of being “Unfriended.” Now, that’s really social, don’t you think? Yes, I can appreciate families using Facebook and other social media to keep up with one another, especially if they are geographically scattered, but, personally, I have a need for individual acknowledgement and affirmation that resents being lumped together with someone’s family, co-workers, bowling buddies, and the pharmacist at Walgreens. Give me snail mail with letters in long hand, or a phone call, where you at least have instant two-way communication -- and the sound of a human voice. Jean Mlincek is a freelance writer living in St. Petersburg, Fla.
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JANUARY 2014
CANCER ANSWERS MOFFITT.org |
www.facebook.com/MoffittCancerCenter |
twitter.com/MoffittNews |
youtube.com/user/MoffittNews
Hookah Smoking - Is It Safe? Today it seems that hookah bars are popping up in cities everywhere, as hookahs are being used to smoke flavored tobaccos in public social settings. That’s a red flag for Thomas Brandon, Ph.D., director of the Moffitt Cancer Center Tobacco Research & Intervention Program. He is concerned that many people consider hookah smoking as safer and less harmful than cigarettes. The mild-tasting and smelling tobacco and the use of water in the pipe to cool the smoke, making it less harsh when it is inhaled into the lungs, fuel that myth. But smoking a hookah is a serious health hazard, says Dr. Brandon, with just as many and possibly more harmful carcinogens than there are with cigarettes. According to a U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention report, hookah smokers are at risk for the same kinds of diseases caused by cigarette smoking, including oral cancer, lung cancer, stomach cancer, cancer of the esophagus and respiratory disease, as well as cardiovascular disease and premature death. The amount of smoke inhaled during a typical hookah “session” is vastly more than that inhaled from a single cigarette, says Dr. Brandon. Depending on how much smoke is inhaled and how many people are participating, a one-hour session on a hookah could be equivalent to anywhere from one pack of cigarettes to a whole carton.
Germs And Toxins There is also the potential for transmitting communicable diseases. Many people wouldn’t think of sharing a cigarette or a drink with five or six friends. When smoking a hookah, however, the mouthpiece is passed from person to person, setting the stage for exchanging disease-producing germs. “Sometimes, people use their own mouthpieces but not always,” says Dr. Brandon. “Sharing the mouthpiece is quite common.” In addition, the pipe may not be cleaned frequently. Dr. Brandon described seeing a hookah hose slit open lengthwise, revealing mold and accumulated “gunk” – a buildup of resin from the tobacco and saliva from the users. The potential for carbon monox-
ide toxicity is yet another health hazard, says Mary Martinasek, Ph.D., an assistant professor of public health at the University of Tampa. “The average nonsmoker may have zero to eight parts per million of carbon monoxide in their blood stream, but after smoking a hookah, that level can jump to 65 parts per million,” says Dr. Martinasek, who has conducted research on hookah smoking. By contrast, a person who smokes a pack of cigarettes a day may have carbon monoxide levels that range from 10 to 25 parts per million, especially right after smoking a cigarette. That’s because the heat source for the hookah is typically a piece of hardwood charcoal, which when burned can release high levels of hazardous chemicals, including carbon monoxide, arsenic, cobalt and nickel. Carbon monoxide exposure deprives the body of oxygen and can create symptoms such as headaches, nausea, rapid heartbeat and dizziness, which can impair cognitive function and driving ability, even sending people to the emergency room for treatment. “When we ask young people what is favorable about hookah smoking they say they feel relaxed and lightheaded – a slight buzz that gives them a legal high,” says Dr. Martinasek. “They don’t realize that carbon monoxide is creating that feeling. Unfortunately there currently isn’t a lot of educational material available, which is why it is so important to educate young people and dispel the myths that the water serves as a filter and hookah is a safe alternative.” Dr. Brandon is especially concerned about the trend because hookah could serve as a possible gateway to another generation becoming addicted to nicotine and gradually turning to daily cigarette use. 1-888-MOFFITT • MOFFITT.org
JANUARY 2014
Senior Voice America
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Health Roundup
Safe, Simple and Affordable Healthy Skin Tips for Men and Women Whether you are male or female, you likely have some key elements to your health routine like exercise, good food, rest, and regular medical and dental check-ups. Taking care of your skin probably isn’t a part of this important list — but it should be. Your skin is a living organ and a first line of defense against the outside world. Your skin protects you from environmental toxins and pathogens, gets rid of waste, regulates healthy body temperature and is ultimately the picture of health the world sees. Men are often guiltier of neglecting healthy skin care than women. Maybe skin care isn’t considered manly enough, or maybe men simply feel that beyond a good scrub and shave nothing else is needed. And the barrage of high-priced, celebrity-endorsed anti-aging products sold by powerhouse cosmetics companies for women contributes to the notion that skin care is a luxury for well-to-do women rather than an important aspect of a healthy everyday lifestyle. What’s not in your skin care products is just as important to your health as what is in your skin care
products. Control what goes on your body by making and using a few essential oilbased products yourself that that don’t contain any of the chemical preservatives and synthetic fragrances often found in expensive skin care products. Why pay for what you don’t need when you can create more affordable, natural and healthy skin care products — with a custom scent of your liking — on your own? One hundred percent pure and natural essential oils provide a natural way to scent your homemade skin care products. Here are the essential oil scents that tend to be favored by men and women and some do-ityourself natural alternatives to the commercial products cosmetic companies offer. • Masculine Scents — Cedarwood, Frankincense, Myrrh, Sandal- wood, Vetiver. • Feminine Scents — Geranium, Jasmine, Neroli, Rose, Ylang Ylang. • Neutral Scents — All citrus oils, Eucalyptus, Lavender, Patchouli, Peppermint
Cleanser Maintaining clean skin is important for men and women because a good wash removes the build up of accumulated toxins and allergens from the outside environment while it removes dead skin, oil, bacteria and odor. Cleansing stimulates cell turnover and renewal. A gentle, natural liquid soap made with a wholesome
The Lifestyle You Deserve. The Care You Need. The Name You Trust.
Monday-Friday Menorah Manor is the premier senior lifestyle and senior healthcare provider serving Florida’s Gulf Coast and offering a continuum of services, including: • The Bernard L. Samson Nursing Center • The Toby Weinman Assisted Living Residence (License #10306) • The Inn on the Pond (License #AL12158) • The Irv Weissman Adult Day Center • Renew You Short-term Rehabilitation • The Kelly and Stuart Lasher Rehabilitation Center • The Geriatric Assessment Program • The Toby Weinman Jewish Hospice Program (A Service of Menorah Manor & Suncoast Hospice) • The Bresler Alzheimer’s and Related Disorders Program • The Ida and Jules Lowengard Synagogue For more information or to schedule a tour, call today!
St. Petersburg Campus 727-345-2775 255 59th Street North St. Petersburg, FL 33710 www.MenorahManor.org
Clearwater Campus
Inn on the Pond Assisted Living Residence
727-735-6200
2010 Greenbriar Blvd. Clearwater, FL 33763 www.InnOnThePond.org
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7 to 9 pm on 1250am WHNZ
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vegetable oil such as olive or sweet almond is the best cleanser you can use. Good old-fashioned soap is a very effective cleanser — but it might be drying for sensitive individuals or with repeated use, so make sure you follow up with moisturizing oil afterwards. Ingredients: 1 cup unscented liquid vegetable oil-based soap Continues on Pg.11
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Senior Voice America
JANUARY 2014
LEGAL ADVIcE
How to Navigate the Murky Modification Process By Allen Borden, Attorney
A lot of homeowners find themselves in a position where their house is valued at less than what they owe
on the mortgage. This is commonly referred to as being “upside down” or “underwater.”
If that wasn’t bad enough, with a lot of mortgages having variable rates and the economy slowing
enough to make companies cut hours, pay, and even jobs, it is not hard for some people to fall into circumstances where they can’t afford their mortgage payments anymore. The first thing homeowners attempt is a modification of their mortgage.
Modification is a tempting, albeit, extremely difficult option for those homeowners who need to cor-
rect their financial situation. Whether you are trying to reset the payments, change the interest rate from a variable to a fixed, lower the interest rate, or even reduce the principal, working with some of the banks out there can be a daunting task.
Homeowners have made complaint after complaint regarding the dismissive and careless
way banks have treated them after requesting a modification.
For example, it is not uncommon to hear from banks, “We didn’t get any paperwork,” even
though the homeowner has a fax receipt or an e-mail receipt. Then, by the time the bank does get your paperwork into its system, they frequently claim the paperwork is outdated and they need updated paperwork.
When the bank finally admits they’ve received everything and process your paperwork, it’s a shot in the dark if they
will even offer a modification. And in the event one is offered, it often times isn’t very helpful.
Understanding how the banks view modifications gives a little insight into why they act in such a non-productive way. Banks in general have very rigid guidelines that are
created from the top tiers of management and trickle down in the form of a checklist for the lower level employees. It’s typically a “one size fits all” answer to a problem that has many shades of gray. Due to their inflexibility, many modifications are denied even though, in the end, it would be more beneficial for both parties.
A homeowner can do their own modification; however, an attorney who has dealt with the ins and outs of mortgage modification can be very helpful and make the experi-
ence a lot less stressful. If you do wish to go it alone, here are some tips on modifying your mortgage.
• Always send documents with return receipt requested mail so you have their signature proving they received the documents.
• If you choose to get behind on your mortgage so that they will entertain a modification offer, do not spend that money. Instead, put the mortgage
• Be persistent and annoying. Call the banks constantly, get names and ask about the status of your modification. The more you harass them, the more likely they are to
push your case through.
• Make sure you fill in every line of the forms they send you. Write “N/A” if the question doesn’t apply to you, but make sure you put some kind of answer so they can’t say
payment aside just in case you get denied; that way you can catch up on the mortgage payments immediately.
you didn’t fill out the paperwork properly.
• Set aside your paystubs, bank statements and tax returns so you are ready to update the bank at a moment’s notice.
JANUARY 2014 From HEALTHY SKIN, Page 9 2 tablespoons water or unflavored green tea 48 drops essential oil or blend of oils of your choice Combine soap, water (or tea) and essential oils in a small bottle. Apply about 1 tablespoon to a soft, wet washcloth and gently scrub damp skin in a circular buffing motion (not for too long or with too much force). Rinse with warm (not hot) water.
Moisturizer It’s essential to re-hydrate the skin after cleansing. Washing with soap lifts away dirt, makeup and dead skin, leaving skin bright and pores clear, but it also strips skin of its natural protective (and wrinkle-fighting) oil known as sebum. A light-bodied, absorbent and non-clogging oil such as grapeseed, jojoba or rosehip oil can be applied to still-damp skin after rinsing off your liquid soap-based cleanser to perform the same function as costly lotions and creams at a fraction of the price. Ingredients: 1/2 cup grapeseed oil 1/2 cup jojoba oil 48 drops essential oil or blend of oils of your choice Combine all ingredients in a small bottle, apply a teaspoon to the palm of hand, rub hands together and smooth over damp, freshly cleansed skin. The oil will seal in moisture and protect against dehydration.
Toning and Hydrating Mist As the day goes on, you’ll inevitably lose your fresh glow. Some areas of your skin might become increasingly dry, while others might be oily. A simple mixture of pure water and protecting essential oils like lavender and geranium can help diminish an oily appearance and moisturize dry areas while the oils provide healthy protection. Ingredients: 1 cup water
Senior Voice America 48 drops essential oil or blend of oils of your choice Small spray mister bottle Combine water and essential oils in bottle, shake vigorously and apply 2-3 spritzes of the mist to skin, smooth over surface if needed. Good skin care isn’t as much effort as heavy lifting or running a marathon, but it’s a tool of health maintenance that can be as beneficial as hitting the gym. Man or woman, you should add it to your health routine. For more information and valuable skin care tips, visit www.auracacia.com.
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Senior Voice America
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91-Year Old Local Author Publishes Successful Espionage Novel By David J. Theroux Paul R. Theroux is the author of the acclaimed, new book, Q-23: A Novel of Espionage and Racqueteering. A 91-year old, 35-year, Tampa-area resident and an elder of the extended, creative Theroux family, he is a cousin of novelists Paul, Alexander, and Peter Theroux, and this is his first novel. Paul was born the third of Michigan State professor Frank Theroux’s seven children—all of whom have had long-time Florida connections. The professor’s love of tennis inspired his children to take up the game—especially Paul, who not only wound up with shelves of trophies but also an inspiration for Q-23. Following being an Air Corps officer in World War II, Paul entered the fire insurance industry, with executive positions at State Farm and other firms. His marriage to Marjorie Withrow resulted in three children who spent their childhoods in a succession of hometowns. The same wanderlust that drove Paul to move his family six times in 20 years kicked in after he retired to Florida—and became a world traveler. So how does one combine fascination with adventure, intrigue, mysteries, travel and tennis? If you’re Paul, you author Q-23. In the book, Roger Pate is a chemist who discovers a revolutionary new formula, but does not expect to be murdered for it. His friend, Kurt Strong, a private investigator, is not naïve about those
who prefer squelching innovation threatening the status quo. But the clock is ticking and both men face an escalating, violent situation in order to outwit a powerful enemy. Unexpectedly the benign world of research and development takes on a sinister cast and ordinary men must do extraordinary things to survive.
BOOK REVIEWS “I have just read Q-23 with pleasure. It is ingenious, well-observed, and specific . . . . My congratulations to my cousin and namesake with my wish that the novel finds many readers.” —Paul E. Theroux, author, The Great Railway Bazaar and other books “Paul Theroux’s novel joins the ranks of Therouxs whose writing is well worth reading. The story embedded in Q-23 is as clever as the title. I was hooked from the get-go.” —Kenneth Elzinga, author, Murder at the Margin “I have found Q-23 fascinating. I could not put it down. . . . Theroux has one vivid imagination and yet everything is so plausible. The book is short as are the chapters, a great formula for a quick, easy, informative and interesting read. Highly recommended!” —Don Newman, former HHS Undersecretary; author, Newman’s Musings
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JANUARY 2014
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Practice What You Preach By Nurse Ruth, RN, LHRM
Do you take your own advice? What I mean is do you practice what you preach?
As a nurse, I try to educate my patients on ways to avoid getting sick by boosting their immune system. So, I suggest and encourage them to:
1. Get plenty of rest/sleep. 2. Stay hydrated and eat healthy. 3. De-stress and take time to smell the roses. 4. ENJOY the day.
Well, I didn’t get enough sleep and forgot about letting go of what stresses me. The result? Overlooking two out of four meant that I became sick! This time of year with viruses, respiratory infections, and not to mention the dreaded flu, we can become, excuse my expression, “sick as a dog!” When we don’t get enough rest, we become fatigued, which wreaks havoc on our body. This changes hormone levels (which are our body’s chemical messengers) in men and women and our systems become out of balance. We then become more easily overwhelmed when coping with our day to day stressors. The results? We become physically ill … maybe even depressed.
What can we do to make ourselves feel better?
1. Make sure we get plenty of rest. We’ve just finished the holiday season and this puts a lot of demands on us. Regroup and rest to restore yourself. 2. Avoid fast food, eat healthy and don’t skip meals. Our body needs nutrition and hydration. 3. The hardest is managing our stress levels. Everyone manages stress differently so if walking, jogging or yoga aren’t your tools to manage stress, curl up with a good book or find something that works for you. Stay healthy and have a Happy New Year! If you have a concern, viewpoint, or comment with regard to this article, Let’s Talk! Provided by Ruth Fanovich, RN, LHRM, Owner, Care Placement Home Health Agency, Inc. and RMF Care Management, Inc. www.CarePlacementHH.com.
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Senior Happenings exhibitors of antique furniture, art, pottery, jewelry, silver, toys and glass. The event also features an Antiques Appraisal Fair. Show hours: Friday, 5-8pm, Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Admission $6. The Coliseum is located at 535 4th Ave. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33701. For more information (727) 892-5202. Walk Run for the Arts
AL Lopez Park January 11 Event is from 8:00 a.m until 12:00 p.m. For additional information contact Art Keeblea at (813) 276-8250 or Keeblea@tampaarts.org. A Look Back by Bok Tower Gardens
Bok Tower Gardens January 1 - February 23 Take a look back at important milestones throughout our first 85 years. This new historical timeline and exhibit will include lesser-known facts, stories, photographs and artifacts from the Bok Tower Gardens Chao Research Center. This exhibit is curated by Librarian Joy Banks and Pinewood Estate Coordinator Elyse Justice. Included with admission. From 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Included with admission. Bok Towers is located at 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales, FL 33853. For more information www.boktowergardens.org or (863) 676-1408. Spirit of the Buffalo Pow Wow
International Market World January 10, 12, 17 and 19 Enjoy this Native American Celebration hosted by the International Market World in Auburndale. The annual Spirit of the Buffalo Pow Wow brings Native American dancers and drumming, demonstrations, food, crafts and more. Over 1200 unique vendors make up the International Market World family of shops. The farm fresh produce will change your kitchen menu, and the alligator show will make you change your mind about gators. Cost: adult $5.00, children under 4 free. The International Market World is located at 1052 U.S. HWY 92 West, Auburndale, Florida 33823. For more information (863) 665-0062 or www.intlmarketworld.com. HHO Games presents Green Energy Exposition
An Evening with Garrison Keillor
Carol Morsani Hall January 12 Minnesota writer, humorist and author (including Lake Wobegon Days), Garrison Keillor is best known as the host of the radio broadcast A Prairie Home Companion. His trademark segment is the News From Lake Wobegon, a monologue about a fictional Midwest town “where all the women are strong, all the men are good looking and all the children are above average.” Tickets from $35.50-$55.50. Carol Morsani Hall is located at Straz Center for the Performing Arts - 1010 N. W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa, FL 33602. For more information www.strazcenter.org. Terry Smith Art Demonstration
First Christian Church January 14 The Zephyrhills Art Club will meet on Tuesday, January 14th at 7 pm. Terry Smith a well known wildlife artist will present a demonstration. There will be member competitions/displays, door prizes, refreshments and timely discussion. The ZH’s Art Club meets on the second Tuesday at 7:00 p.m. each month. All Pasco County residents who are interested in art are welcome to attend the meetings. The First Christian Church is located at 6040 8th Street, directly east of the Post Office. For more information, please call Nelida (813) 782-2723. NATURAL HISTORY SPEAKER SERIES: Fish of Lake Maggiore
Boyd Hill Nature Preserve January 14
Raymond Watson of FWC will bring to light the challenges faced by our local fishery. What fish can be found here? Are they safe to eat? 7:30 p.m. Free. See the latest in cutting edge technology for saving The Boyd Hill Nature Preserve is located at 1101 fossil fuel. Learn from the inventors how to save fuel Country Club Way S., St. Petersburg, FL 33705. For and save the atmosphere. Find out how you can de- more information (727) 893-7326. crease your home electricity bill. Hands on look at new 2014 Florida RV SuperShow and currently marketed inventions for using less fossil fuel. Attend seminars given by inventors on how to build Florida State Fairgrounds a device to double mileage. Purchase products that can January 15 - 19 renew and restore high mileage engines to like new. DisThe Florida RV Trade Association will host the 29th cover devices for creating energy onboard diesel and Annual 2014 Florida RV SuperShow still at the Florida gasoline powered vehicles . See the new Merrick ReState Fairgrounds in Tampa and having the representaformer which literally cracks fuel on board to double tion from every major RV Manufacturer as well as hunmileage. All in all, you will find information that can dreds of accessory booths exhibitors. A two-day pass save many dollars and reduce pollution. will give access to the public to two full days to see evMOSI is located at 4801 E. Fowler Ave, Tampa, FL erything at the SuperShow at no additional cost. Hun33617. (813) 987-6000 or www.mosi.org. dreds of RVs on display and educational seminars, the SuperShow is the place to trade-in your old RV or obtain Sunshine City Antiques and Collectibles Show all the information needed to get acquainted with the The Coliseum RV Lifestyle. Some of Florida’s finest campgrounds and January 10 - 12 resorts will have booth exhibits to show attendees the This nationally recognized show features nearly 100 best camping opportunities found anywhere. Entertain-
MOSI January 10 - 12
ment of clowns, unicycle riders, Barbershop Quartets and Bag Pipe Bands. A FREE shuttle service inside the SuperShow will carry visitors from exhibit to exhibit, so nothing will be missed. Admission to the SuperShow is only $10.00 for adults and that includes a second day admission for the cost of one day. Children under 16 are FREE. Hours are Wednesday - Saturday 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. and Sunday 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Wednesday is Senior Citizens Day with seniors receiving $1.00 off the cost of admission (not valid with other discounts). The Florida State Fairgrounds is located at 4800 U.S. 301, Tampa, FL 33610. For more information (813) 7410488, or www.frvta.org. Free Senior Seminar
The Inn on The Pond January 16 “An Ounce of Prevention: A Prescription for Lifelong Health Planning” will be presented by Dr. David Bernstein, a highly respected physician who is board certified in both Internal Medicine and Geriatrics practicing in Clearwater. His 30 years experience have provided him with opportunities to observe and empathize with thousands of adults as they age. His compassion and ability to see the souls of his patients has compelled him to share his stories in his book “I’ve Got Some Good News and Some Bad News: YOU’RE OLD Tales of a Geriatrician.” 1:30 p.m. Refreshments will be provided. The Inn on the Pond, 2010 Greenbriar, Blvd, Clearwater, FL 33763. For more information please call (727) 302-3710. St. Pete Beach Classic
St. Pete Beach January 17 - 19 The 2014 edition of the race will feature a Sunday morning half-marathon and the expansion of the Expo to include both Friday and Saturday. In addition to the half-marathon, races include Trio & Duo, 10K run, 5K run and kid’s runs. The activities will kick off with the opening of the Expo on Friday and conclude with the half-marathon awards and post-race party on Sunday. All the event activities will be centered at the Sirata, including the Health & Fitness Expo, beach parties, bonfire, post-race awards and the start and finish lines for all the races. Our event is different than any other, including: beach party, bonfire, certified course distances, great post-race food (not just bananas and bagels), awards in 5 deep in 5-year age groups starting with 9 & under and going to 75+, finishers medals, long sleeve tshirts and much more! For more information www. stpetebeachclassic.com. Festival of Chocolate
MOSI January 18-20 Florida’s largest all-chocolate themed event. With chocolate indulgences, a live cake decorating competition and the Great American Candy Run, this year’s Festival of Chocolate cannot be missed. 10:00 a.m. Admission $10.00; children under 12 attend for free. MOSI is located at 4801 E. Fowler Avenue, Tampa, FL 33617. Monster Jam
Raymond James Stadium January 18 Be a part of the action, the roar of amazing trucks, the incredible tricks and the chance to meet the driv-
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Senior Happenings ers up close. 7:00 p.m. Ticket prices: from super value $15 to Total Access Pass $100 (all tickets $5 more day of show.) Tickets will also be available at the Raymond James Stadium box office. Raymond James Stadium is located at 4201 N. Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa, FL 33607.
Following another successful invasion of Tampa, the Pirates gather on Bayshore Boulevard for a victory parade, which begins at 2:00 p.m. at the south end of Hillsborough Bay, sails north to Seddon Channel (between Davis Island and Harbour Island), continues North and docks at The Tampa Convention
Winter Birds - Talk and Walk
The Gasparilla Invasion Brunch
Boyd Hill Nature Preserve January 18
The Tampa Convention Center
This is your opportunity for reserved seating along the Tampa Convention Center’s Riverwalk. The Jose Presentation & hike led by DVD author Joe LaFGasparilla will sail up Seddon Channel and dock “table leur. For beginning & experienced birders. Binoculars side” at the Convention Center. This colorful event inavailable. , From 2:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. Free. The Boyd Hill Nature Preserve is located at 1101 cludes a buffet brunch, live entertainment and a reCountry Club Way S., St. Petersburg, FL 33705. served seat with the best view in Tampa of the historic Gasparilla Invasion of the pirates, presented by Ye For more information (727) 893-7326. Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla. Brunch is from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Reserved tickets: $68 adult, $58 child Sunshine Music and Blues Festival (ages 3-12; children two and under admitted free) Vinoy Park Reservations at www.GasparillaTreasures.com or January 19 call (813) 251-8844. Enjoy the music, the rhythms, the food and fun. Gasparilla Parade of the Pirates Line-up: Tedeschi Trucks Band, Galactic, Leon Russell, Hot Tuna (Acoustic), Stanley Clarke, The Ringers The Gasparilla Parade of the Pirates consists of feat. Jimmy Herring, Bobby Lee Rodgers, Oli Brown over 130 units, including over 90 colorful floats, 14 (Music starts at noon - 2 stages.) marching bands, 50 participating Krewes and, of Vinoy Park is located at 701 Bayshore Dr. N.E., St. Pe- course, those infamous YMKG pirates. The parade tersburg, FL 33701. For more information (727) 893- begins at Bay to Bay Boulevard and Bayshore Boule7441 or www.sunshinemusicandblues.com. vard. It continues along Bayshore Boulevard to BroLakeland PigFest
Tiger Town Stadium January 24 - 25 The 18th Annual BBQ Contest, includes BBQ vending, lots of food, live music, kids play area and more. Join the over 150 competition barbecue teams for a weekend of good eatin’, good friends, and good tunes to benefit Lakeland-area charities. Admission is free. The good eatin’ will cost you some grub. Stop by a Pig Bucks booth (located near all entrances) and exchange your cash for Pig Bucks, the official currency of the Lakeland Pig Fest. By purchasing food from competition teams, you are supporting their efforts and local charities. The Lakeland Pig Fest is a Kansas City Barbecue Society (KCBS) sanctioned event. The event will open to the public at 3:00 p.m. on Friday until 10:00 p.m. and on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Visit www.lakelandpigfest.net for more information.
Events 2014 The Gasparilla Invasion
(Beginning at Bay to Bay and Bayshore) January 25
rein Street, turns east on Brorein Street, then north on Ashley Drive. The parade ends at Cass Street & Ashley Drive. 2:00 p.m. – approx. 5:30 p.m. Free event with possible reserved seats at cost of $38. Gasparilla Pirate Fest Street Festival Along with the invasion and pirate parade, downtown Tampa will also host the Pirate Fest street festival along Florida Avenue, from Kennedy Boulevard to Channelside Drive. The 2014 Pirate Fest Street Festival will feature stages of live entertainment and food. From 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. Free. For stage entertainment throughout the day www.gasparillapiratefest. com. Snowbird Extravaganza
The Lakeland Center January 28 - February 1 One of the largest mature lifestyle shows in North America; Snowbird Extravaganza is the Canadian Snowbird Association’s flagship event, held in Florida since 1993 and in Lakeland for the past nine years. Snowbirds flock from all over Florida to attend this event, which is one of the largest mature-lifestyle events in North America. This fun-filled event includes hundreds of exhibits, keynote speakers, interactive feature areas, and world-class entertainment. In addition to all of the Extravaganza Feature Areas and the main stage in the beautiful Youkey Theatre, this event boasts three additional stages: the Bingo stage in Exhibit Hall, where attendees can stop for a quick Bingo break, the Medipac Stage in Sikes Hall, and the Hospitality Stage in Jenkins Arena. 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Admission is FREE.
The legendary reenactment of the historic pirate invasion, which began in 1904. At 11:30 a.m. the ship Jose Gasparilla will magically appear at the south end of Hillsborough Bay to then be met by a multitude of pleasure crafts all intent on defending the City of Tampa. They quickly see the error of their ways and join the Captain and his Krewe’s flotilla. The Gasparilla Flotilla then makes its way north across Hillsbor- Einstein on Food & Wine’s 2nd Annual Annus Mirabilis Dinner ough Bay and into Seddon Channel (the channel MOSI between Davis Island and Harbour Island). Amidst a January 31 volley of cannon fire, the City is defenseless as the Einstein on Food & Wine’s second annual AnJose Gasparilla docks at the Tampa Convention Cen- nus Mirabilis dinner will be held on Friday, Jan. ter at 1:00 p.m. 31, at 7 p.m. in a private home on beautiful Bay-
shore Boulevard. This incredible evening of fine dining, free-flowing wine and fascinating conversation benefits the education programs at MOSI. The highlight of the evening will be comedic chef Alex Thomopoulos, who will create the menu and provide culinary demonstrations. 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
MOSI is located at 4801 E. Fowler Avenue, Tampa, FL 33617.
Budweiser’s Smoke on the Water BBQ Competition
Lake Cannon, Winter Haven February 1 Come enjoy this annual competition, benefiting the Citrus Center Boys & Girls Clubs of Winter Haven, Lake Wales and Haines City. The 10th Annual Budweiser Smoke on the Water BBQ Competition returns to Winter Haven as the 2012 Florida BBQ Association State Championship. Funds raised benefit the Citrus Center Boys & Girls Clubs of Winter Haven, Lake Wales and Haines City. More than 80 teams from across the country will compete for the Florida State Grand Champion title. Unique entertainment includes a Cypress Water Sports Ski Show on beautiful Lake Cannon. 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Cost: $1 admission (Children 12 and under are free.) Premier parking will be available for $5. Lake Cannon is located at 2400 Havendale Blvd., Winter Haven, FL. For more information www.boysandgirlsbbq.com. 2014 Wisconsin-Upper Peninsula Michigan Potluck Picnic
First Methodist Church Hall February 8 A Potluck Picnic of WIS & Upper MI. residents and former residents will be held at the First Methodist Church Hall in Zephyrhills. Registration will start at 10:00 a.m., with activities starting at noon. Bring a dish that serves 10-12, and your own place setting. Meat, coffee and dessert will be furnished. Bring your own drinks (NO ALCOHOLIC beverages allowed). $4.00 donation per person. Entertainment and door prizes will be provided. The First Methodist Church is located at 38635 5th Ave., Zephyrhills, FL. For more information, contact Jim Leitzke at (813) 780-1549.
Email Your Senior Happenings to: Happenings@Seniorvoiceamerica.com
The Deadline for the February Issue is January 15th DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT ANNUITIES OR
LIFE INSURANCE? Contact JON LYNN (813)774-1862 or clynnlutz@aol.com 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE HELPING CLIENTS SUCCEED
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self help
Seniors and Computers — The Benefits Senior Citizens Services of Clearwater holds regularly scheduled classes for senior citizens at various levels, beginning with true beginners. Classes are designed to accommodate the senior student exclusively. Social interaction combined with a relevant classroom experience diminishes isolation and feelings of depression among seniors. With the New Year right around the corner, it’s time to take on the “new age” day! Senior Citizens Services in Clearwater holds computer class instruction at a comfortable pace weekdays from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The “Back to Basics” class is held on Monday, Wednesday and Friday and includes an additional free, one hour follow up personalized session. The seven hour course is offered to seniors for $25.00. To effectively facilitate one-on-one interaction and personalized instruction, class size is restricted to 8 - 11 students per session. Please call SCS at 727.442.8104 for upcoming classes or see our Facebook page for additional information and details: http://www.facebook.com/clearwaterseniorcitizens. Classes for “True Beginners” who are interested in learning the first steps of computer usage, are encouraged to attend. “Basics” class topics include preliminary facts about the computer itself, how it works, an overview of the internet, setting up a computer for personal favorites, steps to maintain computer viability and basic computer trouble shooting techniques. The session is open to a question and answer forum as class size and time allow. The course culminates with handouts detailing computer terms as well as favorite senior friendly internet websites. The next level is “Beyond Basics,” with a Tuesday & Thursday class schedule and designed with the informed student in mind. These classes cover Windows operating systems, word processing, creating files and folders as well as necessary steps to ensure virus free, computer health. Additional topics are in large part be determined by level of student interest, subject inquiry and level of expertise. Session is open to a question and answer forum as class size and time allow. Computer classes offered by SCS are designed to assure that the senior student is at ease and comfortable, while learning the invaluable methods needed to connect to the community at large via computer. In addition to our daily classes, we provide free use of our computers to the senior community. There is no reason any senior citizen should feel isolated or disconnected from the internet community, as SCS has an open door policy for every senior in the community seeking computer assistance. According to an August 22nd, 2005 WebMD Health News article by Miranda Hitti; “Older adults who use computers report fewer depression symptoms than seniors who don’t use computers. The reasons for the pattern aren’t clear, but the key might be connecting with other people and learning via computers. “Given the social and informational nature of older adults’ computer practices -- e-mail, chat rooms, and health information gathering, for example -- it seemed likely that this would be beneficial to an individual’s overall mental health,” says researcher Kathleen Triche, DSW, CSW, in a news release. SCS is located at 1204 Rogers Street, Clearwater, Florida 33756, (off of South Missouri Avenue & next to McDonald’s). Hours of operation are from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Senior Citizens Services is a not for profit organization, long recognized for its tireless advocacy and action for the senior community. We are dedicated to providing exceptional quality of life forums, classes, activities and alternatives for all senior citizens, and striving, always, to make each day just a little nicer for seniors. For further information contact Robert Wittenberg, Executive Director, Senior Citizens Services, Inc. at (727) 442-8104.
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ADVICE FOR CAREGIVERS
Where Caregivers Can Turn for Answers to Medicare Questions FREAETIONS! LT
U CONS
Call Alan Borden, Esq. If you’re one of the 66 million Americans who care for an aging, disabled or seriously-ill family member or friend, you’re probably doing everything from running errands, to coordinating doctor appointments, to helping find longterm care. Fortunately, caregivers have resources they can turn to for help and support. And they can find out about them through Ask Medicare, a service developed by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Ask Medicare offers tips online at www.medicare.gov to help caregivers address numerous challenges, including: • • • • •
Enrolling in Medicare and compa- ring prescription drug plans. Coping with chronic illnesses and understanding the ways Medicare can support care and treatment. Finding the best nursing home or assisted living arrangement. Managing health care transitions, such as when someone is dis- charged from the hospital. Finding local organizations that can provide additional support for caregivers and their loved ones.
“Caregivers are part of a nationwide community of people who sacrifice a lot for others,” says Susie Butler, acting deputy director, Partner Relations Group, Office of Public Engagement, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. “We want caregivers to know they’re not alone.” The Ask Medicare site highlights the challenges caregivers face each day, offers a free quarterly e-newsletter with Medicare program updates and links to state and local organizations that help with meals, transportation and caregiver training. “Ask Medicare is an online one-stop shop where caregivers can get all the support they need,” says Ms. Butler, “It has interactive tools that help caregivers compare doctors, hospitals and nursing homes, find local home health agencies and dialysis facilities and learn which servic-
es are covered by Medicare.” Caregivers for older Americans can also link to additional resources through CMS’s sister agency, the Administration on Aging. On the AoA site they’ll find the Eldercare Locator, which can point them to services in their own communities as well as national organizations, such as the American Association of Retired Persons, the Alzheimer’s Association and the Family Caregiver Alliance. Ask Medicare has links to their caregiving resources, too. To find out more about Ask Medicare visit www.medicare.gov (key search: caregivers.) or www.floridashine.org (for local help information.)
Other federal resources for caregivers Administration on Aging www.aoa.gov Centers for Disease Control and Prevention www.cdc.gov U.S. Dep. of Health and Human Services www.hhs.gov National Cancer Institute www.cancer.gov U.S. Department of Health & Human Services - HHS.gov: Office on Disability www.hhs.gov/od U.S. Social Security Administration www.ssa.gov Caregiver Support (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs) www.caregiver.va.gov Women’s Health (U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services) www.womenshealth.gov
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LEGAL ADVIcE
Choosing an Attorney By Joe Pippen
Q. How would a new Florida resident choose an attorney?
A. There are many methods available for you to choose a new attorney. Consider the following: 1. Ask friends, neighbors or co-workers about lawyers they have used and with whom they have had successful experiences. 2. Contact your state, city or county bar association and ask for the names and phone numbers of attorneys who handle cases within your needs. 3. Look for advertisements. Many attorneys advertise in the yellow pages and/or newspapers, and these ads often state their specialties, office hours and locations. 4. If you live near a law school, you may wish to contact the dean’s office or law professors for a recommendation. you regarding your case, and how long does the attorney estimate your case will take to process? 6. What are the attorney’s fees? Attorney fees are negotiable and should be a factor in making your decision. Some attorneys charge flat fees, others Is there a charge for the initial consultation? Many attorneys do not charge hourly rates, and others take retainers or work on a contingency charge for the initial meeting. basis. The hourly rate can vary a great deal from attorney to attorney. What percentage of his or her practice is devoted to cases like yours? Many attorneys can handle a variety of legal matters, while others devote Whatever fee arrangement you ultimately decide upon, it is best that it be in writing. The writing can also provide a written estimate of the costs most of their time to one area. Does the attorney have references from past similar cases? This informa- and how bills may be itemized. tion may or may not be available since most attorneys may be very Remember, when you choose an attorney, you could be choosing an advisor, hesitant to release client names for ethical reasons. confidant, and possibly a friend for life — GOOD LUCK! Will he/she personally work on your case or delegate it to others? What are the billing arrangements, how will progress reports be made to
Some questions you may wish to ask the attorney before or during the initial meeting are as follows: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
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self help
Colors of the Seasons
By Ro Martinez The way we dress communicates volumes. Our choices say a lot about our style and how we feel. An all black outfit without a touch of color, jewelry, or any type of accessory may feel stuffy and dark, while the same outfit with turquoise jewelry or a purple scarf may feel very elegant and fashionable. Versatile colorful accessories can be used over and over again and can be worked into many seasons.
Winter Winter is the perfect time for layering fashion pieces for warmth and style. When weather gets gloomy, cold or rainy, dressing in fun colors brightens anyone’s day. For a fashion boost, invest in a colorful wrap. Keep one in your car for those times when the restaurant or office is cooler than expected.
Spring Spring is a season that inspires me to make room for summer or vacation clothes that are brighter in color and lighter in fabric. Temperatures are perfect for spending more time outdoors. Remember to keep a bright colored wrap or large scarf in the car for those chilly nights.
Summer
Summer means steamy days and nights make it
ideal to vacation on the beach. Beach or resort wear gives you the opportunity to have fun and be creative. Colors should be bright — electric bright. It’s a great time to use our creative license and take chances.
Fall Fall is my favorite time of year because colors become deeper and fabrics richer. Scarves are the most economical way to add a pop of color. A lightweight scarf worn under a business jacket adds color to a boring suit. Heavier scarves provide warmth on cool mornings or evening out with friends. Adding color to your wardrobe does not have to break the bank, focus on a few key pieces. A colorful hat punches up last year’s blazer. Bright colored boots can be worn with thick colorful tights under a sweater dress. A wrap in an unexpected shade can be layered over a plain sweater or favorite jacket. Relax, get creative, and start to communicate with color. Ro Martinez, author, model, and modeling coach, has been in the business over 25 years. Her book, Modeling at Any Age is a step-by-step, comprehensive, easy-to-read guide for modeling and how to flourish in the industry. For information on becoming a model or actress, visit www.modelingatanyagebook. net.
Photography: www.angelamannphotography.com Hair and Makeup: Monique McLaughlin www.makeupandhairbymonique.com
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FINANCES
What You Don’t Know About Insurance Products Can Impact Retirement! By Jon Lynn Today I received a question in response to my November article about life insurance from a retired lady and former teacher. Now in her 8o’s, she was debating on cancelling her permanent life insurance in order to stop paying premiums and minimize expenses. As we spoke, I realized that she did not know all of her available options, nor did her advisor, whom she had spoken to prior to calling me. Many people don’t know that in the depression of 1929, when banks and other financial industry companies went broke due to the stock market crash, life insurance companies continued to pay life insurance death benefits and annuity payments to their clients. Even today, with all of the financial turmoil, insurance companies have remained intact while the financial services components have lost significant assets and some have been bailed out by federal government loans. Meanwhile, the insurance commissioners in all of the 50 states require that the insurance side of the business must maintain sufficient assets to cover all outstanding debt requirements and obligations. How can these insurance products affect your retirement?
Life insurance Permanent cash value life insurance offers several options, such as convertibility and reduced paid-up life insurance. Convertibility is the option to convert the policy and the cash value within into an annuity, which can provide a lifetime income stream for a period of time up to death and beyond. By electing a periodcertain annuity, the client can guarantee payments for a selected period of years, perhaps continuing to beneficiaries even beyond the client’s death. For example if a client elects a policy with a 10-year period-certain annuity
payout and dies five years later, the beneficiary heirs will receive a continued payout of five more years to ensure the 10 year payout as agreed upon by the client. I advise my clients to never elect a lifetimeonly annuity because all payments stop at death and any unused funds revert to the insurance company rather than family heirs. The reduced paid-up life insurance option allows the client to cease making insurance premium payments and reduce the life insurance into a paid-up life insurance policy in the amount of a death benefit that the cash value will support. Having life insurance at death can help the family pay the funeral costs and other expenses that occur at death. Using life insurance proceeds can take the financial burden off of the surviving heirs at a very difficult time of loss.
Annuities Fixed income annuities or fixed index annuities can allow the client to earn a fixed amount of investment income much like a certificate of deposit at a bank, or invest the assets in a variety of stock indexes or indices such as the S&P 500, NASDAQ 100 or FTSE. These products provide investment options, liquidity and protection against loss of funds during these economically treacherous times. They are also protected by the Insurance Commissioners Florida Department of Insurance up to $300,000 in distributions, much like the FDIC insures bank deposit assets. Today, financial shows on TV and radio talk about financial planning alternatives, and many offer free consultations which they say normally would cost $2500 to clients with retirement assets of $250,000 or more. I never charge a fee to consult with clients because I believe that the amount of assets a client possesses shouldn’t matter to the advisor. The funds are equally important to clients, no matter how much or how little they have to invest. Retirement is a stage in life that re-
quires the retiree to be more proactive than the working person. However, successful retirement requires that one confront four important factors during their working lives. First, time has the greatest impact on a successful retirement; starting young when time is working for us rather than waiting until time begins to work against us is a must. How much we put aside for the older person we hope to become is secondary: try to save 10 percent of what you earn every year including raises and bonuses. Equally important is our investment results, whether we make or lose money in our retirement funds. The timing of those results cannot be ignored. For example, in 2008/2009, many people lost 50 percent of their retirement assets and have only recently recouped their losses. After five years of no gain, they have lost the time value of money that their assets could have earned during those years. Finally, income taxes must be considered as we can only withdraw five percent of our retirement assets annually to ensure that we don’t run out of money during retirement. For example, if you need only $40,000 per year for expenses and are in a 20 percent tax bracket, you will actually need to withdraw $50,000 and pay $10,000 in income tax to net $40,000. If you have adult children, life insurance can provide a tax-free retirement option via Section 7702 of the IRS code. Unlike 401-k, 402-B and IRA or Roth IRA options, using the Sec. 7702 cash value permanent life insurance allows the person to accumulate cash value income taxfree, access the cash value as a tax-free loan prior to age 59 1/2, leave an income tax-free death benefit to heirs should the
policy owner die prior to retirement, and access a retirement income as total or as supplemental income, also income taxfree. While you may not be eligible for this option due to age or ill health, consider your adult children or grandchildren that you can gift premiums to and benefit them. Retirement can be successfully achieved when you know all of your alternatives and make the decision to stop planning and actually take action. If you know all of your options and refuse to act on them, nothing ever changes. In my thirty years in the financial industry, it still amazes me how few people take the responsibility to act in order to benefit both themselves and their families. Today in the U.S.A., probably the richest nation on earth, only five out of every 100 people beginning their working business career can afford to retire at the conventional age of 65. You must take all the action necessary to achieve your retirement goals! He who hesitates is lost! Jon Lynn can be reached at 813-7741862, clynnlutz@aol.com, or at his web site, www.retirementcpr4u.com.
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Senior Voice America
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in the community
It’s a January Theatre Bonanza at Asolo By June Hurley Young All eyes are on the Asolo Repertory Theatre in Sarasota where, traditionally, the winter season opens with three plays in revolving repertory. It’s an opportunity for Tampa Bay fans to book each play, choose the night or matinee performance and reserve a seat. “Philadelphia Here I Come” is about a young man who leaves his Irish homeland to come to America. He fantasizes that this will be a land of Cadillacs, Coca Cola, and pretty girls. It opens Jan. 10, 2014 and plays to April 12. Politics and intrigue are center stage in “Other Desert Cities” Jan. 17 to Feb. 27. Ex-Senator Lyman Wyeth has the ideal career, the perfect family and a worry free life. Then his daughter writes memoirs and reveals some shameful happenings that shatter the family and keep the audience on the edge of their seats until the suspenseful conclusion. Jan. 12 through April 13, “Vanya, Sonia, Masha and Spike”, the 2012 Tony Award Best Play performs on the Asolo Mainstage. Two sisters have a “ho-hum” kind of life as they occupy the family farmhouse. When the third sister, a movie star, returns with her boyfriend the adventure begins. Rivalry, regret and uproar transform the play into a hilarious comedy. Now is the time to plan three trips to Sarasota and to take part in this exciting 2014 series. The Asolo Repertoire Players perform on the Mainstage of the FSU Center for the Performing Arts on the Ringling Museum grounds, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail (US route 41), Sarasota. Call (800) 261-9288 for reservations.
with
Health, Wealth & Wisdom Start 2014 with all the best senior information! From medical experts to timely financial information; Relevant news for seniors and mature adults; a healthy perspective on life & intelligent discussion and news from around the Bay Area Tune in as Evan and Deb bring you experts that will enhance your everyday life and bring a smile to your face.
ime New Tot! Sl
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JANUARY 2014
FINANCES
Let’s Stop Funding Uncle Sam’s Retirement! By Robert & Chris Maggi, Maggi Tax & Financial Advisory Group Happy New Year! As you know, change is expected in 2014 with taxes and health care, but as one of your New Year’s resolutions, we’d like to recommend that you stop funding Uncle Sam’s retirement and get serious about your own tax free retirement plan. Understand there are many new tax strategies and concepts to plan for a better retirement. However, as always, procrastination is not a retirement plan. As hosts of a weekly radio show, we hear lots of stories, and everyone we speak to has a different and unique financial situation. In a financial world where everything is topsy-turvy, how do we provide successful outcomes for the many clients we have met and served? My son Chris and I have a fiduciary responsibility to do the best thing for you, not the broker or company. We take nothing for granted. Our job as financial advisors is to guarantee you will never be poor. In the economic world we currently find ourselves in, the search for certainty, guarantees and the avoidance of poverty trumps all other issues. For many of you and for many of our clients, it’s simply a matter of survival. It does not have to be that way. Why? Because you have the power to do something about it. Meet with a professional tax advisor who understands taxes, insurance and investments. That’s what we do at Maggi Tax Advisory & Financial Group. We help. When people die before they complete their financial journeys, we can complete it for them. When interest rates are ridiculously low, we can provide the financial miracles of compound interest, tax-deferred compound interest, and the greatest financial miracle of all, financial leverage. The greatest challenge to me and over my 20 years of experience is getting you to be ready, willing and able to take action. Sometimes you may be intimidated discussing your retirement, but remember, the longer you wait the worse it can get. Let me give you two examples of why it’s so important to start your retirement plan and stop funding Uncle Sam’s retirement. One client met with our firm and we did everything correct. We had beneficiaries set up, we had the will, durable power of attorney, health care surrogate and living will completed. When my client passed away and visited the angels in the sky, all their accounts passed to their beneficiaries and not Uncle Sam. The other client was not so lucky. When my second client passed away, he failed to listen and did not set up his accounts correctly. The bottom line? Probate! Guess whose retirement he planned for? Uncle Sam’s! You can ignore meeting with a tax professional or tax advisor as long as you want to. But when it comes to the end, you cannot ignore Uncle Sam and
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the tax man. Please do not be afraid; instead, ask yourself these questions: • When you die who do you want to get your retirement accounts? • How would you feel if you lost all your retirement in the stock market? • Better yet, can you afford to lose one penny? • We are in a new year, so don’t you want to do it right? • Do you think taxes will be higher in the future? Do you want to pay them? • Do you think benefits will be lower? Are you okay with a lower standard of living for you and your family? This all sounds very challenging but it’s time to take control. Happy New Year and remember, this should be your year to stop funding Uncle Sam’s retirement and start your own tax-free retirement plan! Robert and Chris Maggi host a weekly radio show every Saturday, from 5pm to 6pm on 970 WFLA AM radio, called The Maggi Tax & Financial Hour, where they discuss taxes, insurance, investments and ways to have a tax-free retirement.
JANUARY 2014
Senior Voice America
From LOCKHART Page 1 because the lyrics were written by her father, beloved character actor Gene Lockhart. “So I went to Mission Control in Houston and at around 2 am they played the song for the crew of the Columbia mission,” she explained. “Then a voice from space came over the speaker: ‘Some of us up here want to know what Lassie’s mother is doing in Mission Control at 2 o’clock in the morning!’” “Lassie,” one of the TV’s longest-running shows (1954-1973), was June’s other big hit in which she dispensed maternal wisdom, this time for six seasons as a farm mom. Later, she morphed from matriarch to medic as Dr. Janet Craig for three seasons on “Petticoat Junction.” “Petticoat Junction was a delight to do with wonderful scripts,” said June. “It was great playing comedy after ‘Lost in Space,’ which was more dramatic, and ‘Lassie,’ which didn’t have many laughs.” On the big screen, 12-yearold June made her debut in the 1938 holiday classic, “A Christmas Carol,” alongside both her parents, Gene and Kathleen Lockhart, who played the Cratchits. While she went on to costar with greats such as Gary Cooper in “Sergeant York” and Judy Garland in “Meet me in St. Louis,” “A Christmas Carol” is special since it was the only time she appeared with her parents in a motion picture. But it was memorable for other reasons, too. “My daughter, Junie, and granddaughter, Christianna, have never let me forget that the first words I ever spoke in movies were: ‘I know, I know – sausages!’” said June, referring to her on-screen guess for the contents of a food package Mr. Crachit brings home. “We all shriek with laughter when we watch it now.” In addition to being an advocate for NASA and many other causes, June continues to work and co-starred in the comedy spoof “Zombie Hamlet,” which had its world premiere at the 2012 Palm Beach International Film Festival and was just released on DVD in December. In 2013, she appeared in the interactive movie series “Tex Murphy,” a gaming platform that combines animation with full-motion video of real actors. “That was a new experience and I really enjoyed it. And in December, I also celebrated my 80th year as a paid performer in the business! I made my debut at the age of eight in ‘Peter Ibbetson’ at the Metropolitan Opera House.” While actors are used to receiving accolades for career milestones, June admits to still being quite overwhelmed by the NASA recognition and is, she says, “over the Moon about it!” From top to bottom: June Lockhart in a scene of “Lassie”; Congratulations, Mrs. Robinson! scene of “A Christmas Carol” with June and her parents; Nick Thomas has written features and columns for June Lockhart in character as more than 350 magazines and newspapers. Hester Beauchamps in “ZomHe can be reached at his blog: http://getnickt.blogspot.com. bie Hamlet.”
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Entertainment A Tribute to Jimmy Buffett & Summertime Fun
Ramon Theater January 11 As part of Ramon Theater’s 2014, enjoy Live Bait Band playing hits by Jimmy Buffett such as Cheeseburger in Paradise, Come Monday, Hot-Hot-Hot, Margaritaville to name a few and others by such artists as Alan Jackson, Kenny Chesney, Bob Marley and KC & The Sunshine Band. “Get an attitude adjustment.” Wear your favorite beachwear and flip-flops. Ramon Theater is located at 15 East Wall Street, Frostproof, FL 33843. For more information (863)635-7222 or www.ramontheater.com. Girls Night: The Musical
The Lakeland Center January 11 Girls Night: The Musical has been thrilling audiences and earning raves from critics throughout North America since it began touring after its sensational Off-Broadway debut. This touching and hilarious ‘tell-it-like-it-is’ musical takes audiences on a journey into the lives of a group of female friends. And, audience members can’t help but laugh, cry and even find themselves singing and dancing in the aisles as some of the most popular hit songs of the 80s and 90s make this musical a fan favorite! 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Katharine McPhee
Ruth Eckerd Hall January 11 Actress and Columbia recording artist Katharine McPhee spent the past two years shooting the highly anticipated Steven Spielberg/NBC TV series SMASH in New York City. Katharine is currently in the studio working on her next solo record, due out later this year. McPhee’s self-titled debut album exploded on the Billboard 200 and was the best charting debut for a female artist within a two year period. Katharine has co-starred in the hit Adam Sandler comedy House Bunny and costarred in episodes of CSI-NY, Community and The Family Guy. Katharine was featured on two hit PBS specials Foster and Friends and Chris Botti in Boston alongside STING, Andrea Bocelli and John Mayer. Comedian Tim Wilkins will open the show. 7:30 p.m. Tickets $50 - $100. The Addams Family
Ruth Eckerd Hall January 11 The Addams Family is the recent smash-hit musical comedy that brings the darkly delirious world of Gomez, Morticia, Uncle Fester, Grandma, Wednesday, Pugsley and, of course, Lurch to spooky and spectacular life. Come meet the family. We’ll leave the lights off for you. Two shows, 2:00 p.m.
and 7:30 p.m. Enjoy a sumptuous buffet prior to the performance for only $25 per person (includes tax). Doors open two hours prior to the performance. (Available for lunch and dinner.) Show tickets: $35 - $100. An Evening with Drew Carey
The Lakeland Center January 10 Celebrated producer, writer and actor, Drew Carey is returning to the stage and his stand-up roots! The famed host of “The Price is Right” and “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” and star of the hit sitcom “The Drew Carey Show” is coming to Lakeland for a special evening of laughs that will keep you in stitches! For mature audiences only. Show time 8:00 p.m. Tickets $45. Enjoy Center Stage Cafe pre-show buffet dining for $17.95; seating two hours before the show. TFO: Bravo Beethoven!
Ruth Eckerd Hall January 12 Marcelo Lehninger, conductor; John O’Conor, piano. Hailed for his “exquisite playing” by The New York Times, Irish pianist John O’Conor is the soloist in the powerfully dramatic Piano Concerto No. 3 in this all-Beethoven concert that opens with the Egmont Overture and concludes with the buoyant and charming Symphony No. 6, “Pastorale.” 7:30 p.m. Tickets $17.50 $42.50. TFO Coffee: Musicians in the Spotlight
The Mahaffey Theatre January 16 Stuart Malina conducts yet another morning Coffee Concert at The Mahaffey. Join us for this musical event featuring Copland’s Quiet City, Debussy’s Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun and Britten’s Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra, along with select movements from Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 and Tchaikovsky’s Serenade in C Major. 11:00 a.m. Complimentary coffee and doughnuts will be served an hour prior to the concert. Famous Tate Pro Rodeo Classic
The Lakeland Center January 17 -18 Experience Polk County’s largest wild-west extravaganza as the Famous Tate Pro Rodeo Classic rides into Lakeland for another amazing weekend! Top PRCA cowboys and cowgirls travel from across the nation to compete in the eight traditional rodeo events earning points needed to qualify for the National Rodeo Finals in Las Vegas! Grab your boots and spurs for a night of fun for the whole family. The estimated prize purse is over $35,000 from events including: bull riding, bareback
bronc riding, women’s professional barrel racing, tie down roping, and more. Ticket prices start at $20.00; Silver Horseshoe Seats; $25.00 Golden Horseshoe Seats; $45.00 Gold Buckle Seats; Friday and Saturday night is “Kids Night At The Rodeo” two kids get in free with paid adult admission on gold and silver horseshoe seats. Billy Joel
Tampa Bay Times Forum January 17 Billy Joel will headline a solo arena concert in Tampa for the first time since 2006. Billy Joel is one of the highest grossing touring artists in the world. Having sold over 150 million albums globally, Billy Joel’s music has remained among the most popular in the world. The singer/songwriter/composer is the sixth best-selling recording artist of all time and the third best-selling solo artist. Billy Joel has received six GRAMMY® Awards, including the prestigious Grammy Legend Award. He has been inducted into the Songwriter’s Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and has received numerous industry awards. His music has also served as the inspiration and score for the hit Broadway play “Movin’ Out” which took home two Tony Awards, including Best Orchestration and Best Choreography. Recently, Joel was honored by Steinway & Sons with a painted portrait that hangs in Steinway Hall in Manhattan. Joel is the first non-classical pianist to be immortalized in the Steinway Hall collection. 8:00 p.m. Tickets $39.50 - $119.50. Jamey Johnson
The Mahaffey Theatre January 17 Platinum-selling singer/songwriter Jamey Johnson is one of the most respected artists in country music today. His 2008 album, That Lonesome Song, was certified platinum for 1 million in sales, and his 2010 ambitious double album, The Guitar Song, received a gold certification. In addition, he won two Song of the Year trophies, for “Give It Away” and “In Color,” both from the Academy of Country Music and the Country Music Association, and has received five Grammy nominations. He has received tremendous praise from The New York Times, Rolling Stone, The Wall Street Journal, Washington Post and other publications. Last year Johnson released his fourth studio album, a duet tribute album to late songwriter Hank Cochran. The GrammyGrammy-nominated Living for a Song: A Tribute to Hank Cochran paired him with Willie Nelson, Alison Krauss, Emmylou Harris, Ray Price, Elvis Costello, George Strait, Vince Gill and Merle Haggard. 8:00 p.m. Tickets $29.50 - $49.50.
Adam Trend - A New Wave of Magic
Largo Cultural Center January 18 Adam Trent has been described as Justin Timberlake meets David Copperfield. Not only is he one of the youngest international award winning magicians in history, US News & World Report magazine identified him as one of ”The 10 Most Influential Youths in the Nation”. Recently, the Disney Channel presented Adam Trent in a feature performance of his very own. Adam Trent is undoubtably taking the magic world by storm, blending innovative stage illusions with charming wit, dancing, music and emotion to create an experience that is part magic show, part concert, and part stand up comedy. Witness for yourself how Adam Trent is rapidly shattering the stereotype of the typical magician. 8:00 p.m. Tickets $19.50 - $29.50 ($5 more at the door.) The Largo Cultural Center is located at 105 Central Park Dr., Largo, FL 33770. For more information (727) 587-6793. ABBA The Concert
Ruth Eckerd Hall January 18 ABBA The Concert, A Tribute To ABBA, one of the greatest pop phenomena returns to the bay area. This group has been touring North America for more than a decade and audiences and press agree: “this is the closest to ABBA you’ll ever get.” The concept, originally created in collaboration with Swedish company Viva Arts, combines the best ABBA tribute groups with members of the original ABBA band. The group sells out concerts across the United States, dazzling audiences with fantastic performances while playing the most iconic hits from ABBA, including Mamma Mia; S.O.S.; Money, Money, Money; The Winner Takes All; Waterloo; Gimme, Gimme, Gimme; and Dancing Queen. 8:00 p.m. Tickets are $100*, $75, $50, $39 (*$100 Dinner Package includes a premium seat, preshow dinner and a voucher for free valet parking.) Enjoy a sumptuous buffet prior to the performance for only $20 per person (includes tax). Doors open two hours prior to the performance. Due to limited seating, we suggest advance purchase. TFO: Bartók & Brahms
Straz Center January 24 Called a “prodigious and aristocratic violinist” by The Plain Dealer, Concertmaster Jeffrey Multer performs Bartók’s vivacious and gypsy-intoned Violin Concerto No. 2.The evening also features Brahms’ Symphony No. 2 and Steven Stucky’s Radical Light with its wealth of moods and orchestral colors.
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Entertainment Joana Carneiro conducts. 8:00 p.m. Tickets $15 - $45
$18 advance purchase, $22 at the door.
Patsy Cline Tribute Show
First Christian Church January 26
Plant City Entertainment Theater January 25 Extraordinary one woman show highlighting the life and hit songs of this legendary artist. 8:00 p.m. Tickets: Members $10, Seniors/Students $12, Adults $14. Plant City Entertainment Theater is located at 101 N. Thomas St., Plant City, FL. For more information or tickets (813) 754-4929. Vince Gill
The Lakeland Center January 25 Enjoy one incredible evening with Vince Gill at The Lakeland Center. Vince Gill has sold more than 26 million albums. He has earned 18 CMA Awards, including Entertainer of the Year in 1993 and 1994. He is tied with George Strait for having won the most CMA Male Vocalist Awards (five), and is currently second only to Brooks and Dunn for accumulating the most CMA Awards in history. Gill is a member of the Grand Ole Opry, and has received 20 Grammy Awards to date, the most of any male Country artist. Besides being known for his talent as a performer, musician and songwriter, Gill is regarded as one of Country Music’s best known humanitarians, participating in hundreds of charitable events throughout his career. Show 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Tickets: $36.50 – $46.50. Parking: $7.
Greater Vision Gospel Trio
Come enjoy a concert by the award winning gospel trio Greater Vision at 3:00 p.m; doors open at 2:00 p.m. A love offering will be received for the group. The Singing News Magazine and the Southern Gospel Music Association have named Greater Vision Gospel Music’s Favorite Trio. They have also received numerous honors for Song of the Year, Album of the Year, Video of the Year, and Artist of the Year. Additionally, Rodney Griffin has been named Songwriter of the Year every year since 1998, as well as being named Favorite Baritone multiple times. Gerald Wolfe has been named Favorite Male Vocalist seven times. The First Christian Church is located at 6040 8th St., Zephyrhills, FL. 33241. (Next to the post office.) For additional information please contact Deeana at (813) 782-1071. Glenn Miller Orchestra
Ruth Eckerd Hall January 27 More than sixty years since the public first embraced the successful Miller sound, both the legend and the music live on. The Glenn Miller Orchestra, featuring music director Nick Hilscher and The Moonlight Serenaders, is the most sought-after big band in the world today for both concert and dance engagements. 1:00 p.m. Tickets $18 - $35. Enjoy a box lunch starting at 11:00 a.m. for $8.
Dream Lovers
Willie Nelson & Family
Ramon Theater January 25
Ruth Eckerd Hall January 29
A tribute to Bobby Darin and Connie Francis. Jimmy Mazz & Marcy Downey will bring you the best songs of these two legends such as: Splish Splash, Beyond The Sea, Mack the Knife and more. Marcy sings Lipstick on Your Collar, Who’s Sorry Now, Where the Boys Are and others. 7:00 p.m. Tickets
Ruth Eckerd Hall is proud to announce Willie Nelson & Family in concert. Sasha Dobson will open the show. If ever the words “living legend” were more than just public relations bluster, the application would be to Willie Hugh Nelson. The iconic Texan is the creative genius behind historic recordings like
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Crazy, Hello Walls, Red Headed Stranger and Stardust. His career has spanned six decades. His catalog boasts more than 200 albums. He’s earned every conceivable award and honor to be bestowed on a person in his profession. He has also amassed reputable credentials as an author, actor and activist. Show 8:00 p.m. Tickets are $150, $100, $68.50, $58.50 & $48.50. $150 tickets include a premium seat, pre-show dinner, and a voucher for free valet parking. Enjoy a sumptuous buffet prior to the performance for only $25 per person (includes tax). Doors open two hours prior to the performance. Due to limited seating, we suggest advance purchase. Barry Manilow
Tampa Bay Times Forum January 31 Multi-million selling artist, Barry Manilow is coming to Tampa Bay! Manilow, the undisputed #1 Adult Contemporary Artist of all time, will bring his high-energy, hit-packed concert to cities across the nation and around the world. With more than 50 Top 40 hits like, “Mandy,” “Can’t Smile Without You” and “Copacabana (at The Copa),” Manilow will perform for one night only at the Tampa Bay Times Forum. With worldwide record sales exceeding 80 million, Barry Manilow’s unparalleled career encompasses virtually every arena of entertainment, including performing, writing, composing, arranging, and producing. A Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee, Manilow has produced, arranged, and released more than 40 albums during the course of his career. He has also written and produced songs for Barbra Streisand, Bette Midler, Dionne Warwick, and many more. He has been honored with a Grammy, two Emmys, a Tony Award, an Oscar nomination, and a top selling autobiography. 7:30 p.m. Tickets $7.24 - $157.24.
VENUE ADDRESSES AND CONTACT INFORMATION The American Stage Theater — 163 3rd Street North, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. Telephone: (727) 823-7529. www.americanstage.org The Beatrice Friedman Symphony Center — 709 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236. Telephone: 1(866) 508-0611. The Historic Capitol Theatre 405 Cleveland Street Clearwater, FL 33755 Telephone: (727) 791-7400. www.rutheckerdhall.com The Lakeland Center — 701 W. Lime St. Lakeland, FL 33815. Telephone: (863) 834-8100 www.thelakelandcenter.com The Mahaffey Theater — 400 1st. St. South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. Telephone: (727) 892-5798. www.themahaffey.com Ruth Eckerd Hall — 1111 McMullen Booth Rd. Clearwater, FL 33759. Telephone: (727) 791-7400. www.rutheckerdhall.com The Players Theatre 838 North Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34236 Telephone: (941) 365-2494 www.theplayers.org The Straz Center — 1010 North Macinnes Place, Tampa, FL 33602. Telephone: (813) 229-7827. www.strazcenter.org The Tampa Bay Times Forum — 401 Channelside Dr. Tampa, FL 33602. Telephone: (813) 301-6500. www.tampabaytimesforum.com The Tarpon Springs Performing Art Center — 324 Pine Street Tarpon Springs, FL. 34688 Telephone: (727) 942-5605. www.tarponarts.org Van Wezel Hall — 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. FL 34236. Telephone: (941) 955-7676. www.vanwezel.org
When It Comes to Entertaining Get out from behind your mask and list your Event for Freeright here on the SVA ENTERTAINMENT PAGES!
Email your event information no later than the 15th of the month for the following month listings to: entertainment@seniorvoiceamerica.com
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JANUARY 2014
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Senior to Senior Abbreviations M: Male F: Female S: Single D: Divorced WD: Widowed W: White B: Black H: Hispanic J: Jewish
C: Christian ISO: In Search Of LTR: Long Term Relationship NS: Non-Smoker ND: Non-Drinker SD: Social Drinker SOH: Sense of Humor
who enjoys hugs, kisses and cuddling. Age and looks do not matter. Hudson (727) 389-7147.
WD B F NS 60+, Diahann Carroll look-alike, former New Yorker, ISO quick-witted WD/D M 56-65 animal lover; enjoy baking, the beach, 50-60’s, R&B, dancing, scrabble and cruises. Lutz, dcookiemomstir@yahoo.com.
friend Seeking friend
I am a WD 68, petite redhead. Likes the beach, movies, flea markets. Trinity (727) 372-8915.
S W M ISO M/F LTR 35-60, likes many, dislikes few. Looking for friendship/relationship. Open-minded, will try anything & everything new. Very passionate. St. Petersburg (727) 278-2937.
I am a senior, walk with cane. I have had 3 children. I love coffee, smoking, vodka, and seafood. Love boat casinos, no cheap men. Tarpon Springs (727) 678-8794.
S B M 47, fit, I like to watch movies and have fun. ISO W/M, 40-50s in shape with good hygiene. Tarpon Springs (727) 550-7928.
Cute, chubby young lady, 5’6”, 69, loveable, sincere, caring, fun to be with. Seeking gentleman for LTR. Tarpon Springs (727) 940-3654.
D C B F 65 yrs. young, 5’5” ISO gentleman 60 & up for friendship, NS ND. I like day trips, movies, yard sales. Pinellas Park (813) 419-9419.
man Seeking WOMan
S W M ISO M for a relationship to do things with and spend some quality time together. I am very openminded and very passionate. St. Petersburg (727) 798-2438.
Handsome, 50’s, 5’8”, HWP, D W NS SD, enormous SOH. ISO nice figured, yummy slim lady willing to participate in fantastic love and fun forever. Your destiny is waiting. Tampa (813) 260-2342. S W M professional, 6’, ISO healthy, attractive, fit NS lady, age 55-65, for companionship, dating, travel. Tampa (813) 957-5709. Romantic interlude, W M NS ND, 62, handsome, sexy ISO open passionate female for daytime dates. Age, race, marital status open. Lets talk. Tampa (813) 277-8748. Nice looking, good shape ISO W F slim under 65 yrs.
I’m 5’6”, 153 lbs., likes to travel and dine out. St. Pete (727) 398-3034. S W M ND NS 5’6”, 180 lbs., Tyrone mall area ISO W/ AF fun retired, for daytime adventures, happy hour, shopping, restaurants, TV, relaxing, cuddling, being a couple. St. Petersburg (727) 545-4148. S W M tall, slim, active 60s, ISO attractive, sincere, honest NS lady. Age, nationality not important. Please call. St. Petersburg (727) 322-6197. S W M 65 ISO slim lady under 65 for LTR. Retired marine, lives on beach. Treasure Island (727) 827-2059. WD W M 63, 5’9”, 230 lbs., retired, NS SD SOH, likes motorcycles & old cars. ISO honest, loving lady. Pinellas Park (727) 657-9063. D W M 5’8” blue eyes, 190 lbs., 62 yrs. old, NS SD SOH ISO F companionship. Must be spiritual, remember the 60s and willing to feed me when I’m 64. Largo (727) 614-1849.
I am looking for a good friend to do things together. Very passionate. ISO Friendship, between 55-60. I’m 5’7”, hazel eyes, 53 yrs. old. Ruskin (813) 260-6467. I am new to this area and I would like to meet an open minded male that is also retired but active. Dunedin (727) 736-3807. Attractive 56 year old lady, medium build. Seeking friendship. Tampa (407) 529-6139.
Senior to Senior™ Mail to: Senior Voice America
P.O. BOX 340925, Tampa, FL 33694-0925 Email: sr2sr@seniorvoiceamerica.com Fax: (813) 422-7966
S W M NS ND 169 lbs, 5’9”, 68 yrs. young. Physically fit & attractive ISO S D W F, looking for a kind loving relationship. Zephyrhills (215) 880-9794. S W M 50+, 5’8”, 140 lbs., looking for woman 30-50 yrs. old, likes dinner, movies, clubs, quiet nights @ home or nights on the town. Tampa (813) 735-3943. W M mid 60s, former model, fit, salt/pepper hair, seeks attractive, curvaceous female. Interests include Broadway, boating. You won’t be disappointed. Bradenton (941) 749-5326. 68 yr. old S W M, looking for affectionate woman
EMAIL: sr2sr@seniorvoiceamerica.com
JANUARY 2014
Senior Voice America
Page 27
From SENIOR DRIVERS Page 1 FLHSMV offers these tips to assist older drivers:
For more information and additional resources to help older drivers remain mobile and independent, visit the Safe Mobility for Life Coalition’s website at www.safeandmobileseniors.org. FLHSMV is an active member of the coalition.
Florida’s Guide for Aging Drivers One of the first resources we have developed is our Guide for Aging Drivers. We designed this driver’s guide to help older Floridians continue to drive as long as safely possible while sharing information to help prepare them for the day when they retire from driving. The guide was created to be a printed version of the transportation safety and mobility information contained on this website in consumer-friendly language.
If you would like to receive* a free copy of this guide, please contact: Pepper Institute on Aging and Public Policy Safe Mobility for Life Resource Center 636 West Call Street Tallahassee, FL 32306 Email: safe-mobility-for-life@fsu.edu *Please allow 5-8 business days to receive your guide in the mail.
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CLASSIFIED order form Place your classified ad in the Senior Voice America today. Clean out your garage, sell that car, advertise your services. Ads are priced from $25 for up to 20 words, plus a phone number. Additional words are $5. To place your ad, call (813) 444-1011, or complete the form below and mail with a check payable to Senior Voice America, P.O. Box 340925, Tampa, FL 33694-0925. You can also email your ad to sharon@seniorvoiceamerica.com Deadline: 20th of the month for the next monthly issue. NAME _________________________________________________ ADDRESS _______________________________________________ CITY ______________________________ STATE ____ ZIP __________ PHONE __________________________________________________ EMAIL___________________________________________________
YOUR AD
• Plan your day so that you do most of your driving when visibility is greatest and traffic is lightest, such as mid-morning and after lunch. • Plan the route to your destination to minimize left turns. • Look twice both ways before making a turn or entering an intersection. • Minimize lane changes. When you change lanes, be sure to use your signals. • Turn the volume on your radio down or turn off the radio completely. • Have your vision and hearing tested annually. • Heed warning labels on medications. Even prescription drugs can im pair driving and judgment. • Consider alternative transportation options.
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Senior Voice America
JANUARY 2014