JANUARY 2015
TM
SINCE 1980 — VolUME 35 • NUMBER 1
Medicaid Liens on the Family Home
Frequently, homeowners who have accepted Medicaid benefits in their later years ask if there is a way to preserve their home from a Medicaid lien to benefit their survivors. They want the home to pass to their surviving relatives—usually, children. In our article titled, “O Gimme Your Home … and Your Buffalo, Deer, and Antelope, Too!” which appeared in the December 2014 “Senior Voice,” we mentioned that, during your lifetime, Medicaid treats your home as an exempt asset, although if your home is a very expensive one (generally, well over a half million dollars in assessed value), Medicaid can limit that exemption. The problem for most homeowners is not securing a Medicaid exemption for the home during life, but upon death. Medicaid can and does make estate recovery, including recording a lien on a family home that is in the estate of an owner who has accepted benefits. (Even if the home is in some form of joint ownership, or is an asset of a trust set up by the recipient homeowner, Medicaid treats it as an asset of the recipient homeowner, i.e. the deceased person who retains an interest in the home at the time of death and who has accepted Medicaid benefits.) Medicaid will reimburse itself out of the estate to the extent of the dollar value it has spent on that homeowner. Medicaid’s rules for imposing a lien on the home upon a recipient homeowner’s death make an exception, and no lien is imposed, if, at the time of death, the home is occupied by one or more of: (a) a spouse; (b) a child under age 21 years; (c) a legally blind or permanently disabled child of any age; (d) a sibling who has an “equity interest” See LIEN, Page 27
By Joyce Holly
top ten fitness and nutrition tips for older adults
PAGe 5
CO-STARS REMEMBER ELVIS THE ACTOR
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CHALLENGES WITH SELLING YOUR HOUSE WHEN DOWNSIZING Are you considering selling your house and downsizing into a smaller house, apartment or community? There are some items that you must know to ensure a more stress- and hassle-free sale of your current residence. In this article, we will cover some of the challenges to consider when selling your house. The challenges with selling a house include the following: Getting the house ready for sale; listing the house or otherwise putting the house on the market; showing the house; keeping the house in show-ready condition; the uncertainty of when the house will sell; finding a buyer, especially one that can qualify for a loan; and not knowing what you will actually receive as net profit from the sale of the house. Getting the house ready for sale: What are you going to need to do to get the house ready for sale? Do you know what a potential buyer is going to see? See HOUSE SALE, Page 10
By Ben Souchek
NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS YOU MUST ACT UPON
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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 2015
Health Roundup
Super-Simple Tips to Manage and Help Prevent Diabetes • Designate one chair at your table as your “eating chair.” Only eat if you are sitting in it—nowhere else. • Fast food can be calorie dense and low on nutrition. Avoid going over board by limiting your intake. That means either eating a child`s meal or picking a healthier, sometimes more expensive item from the menu, such as a salad or grilled chicken sandwich. • If you lead a sedentary lifestyle, it’s time to make a change. Set quotas for TV viewing. For example, one hour of news and one hour of entertainment. Or stay active while watching television by doing squats, crunches, lifting small weights or stretching. Get outdoors for at least 15 minutes a day—rain or shine! Walk, bike, garden, clean or play a To avoid overeating, don`t put serving bowls on the table. Fill plates in the kitchen, and leave game—it does not matter, as long as you are extras and leftovers far away. Instead, keep moving. • A structured meal plan and nutrition-rich veggies or a salad on the table to supplement foods can help you manage diabetes and weight meals. Include carrots, celery, cucumber, issues without needing to count calories, carbs pepper slices and cherry tomatoes. Eat as or points. Look for a program that meets the many as you like, rather than getting seconds nutritional guidelines of the American Diabetes of the main course. Association and that offers personal support in Cinnamon has been shown to help improve the form of certified diabetes educators, blood sugar levels. Fill an empty saltshaker with the spice, and leave it on the table. Shake a dietitians, food and glucose trackers, and an little on meat, potatoes and vegetables for the online support community. For example, health benefits and an added boost of flavor. Nutrisystem D is clinically proven to help
Nearly 10 percent of the U.S. population has diabetes, and another 37 percent of U.S. adults have prediabetes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Given the statistics, it’s no surprise that diabetes is a leading cause of death in the United States. Fortunately, there are concrete steps you can take to control the disease, according to experts. “Medication alone can’t solve diabetes. The solution must include healthier eating and living,” said Dr. Andy Baldwin, a board-certified family physician and ambassador for Nutrisystem, a weight loss program that has a specific plan designed for diabetes management. No matter what your health status is now, committing to a healthier lifestyle can help you manage diabetes or prevent the onset in coming years. Baldwin offered some suggestions for getting started. • •
people with Type 2 diabe- tes lose weight and lower their A1c, offering meals that contain the right balance of low glyce- mic carbs, fats and high protein foods. Meals are also fiber-rich to ensure participants feel full. More information can be found at www.Nutrisystem.com. Healthy habits can benefit your overall health, as well as reduce your risk for complications from diabetes.
JANUARY 2015
Senior Voice America
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Health Roundup
Did You Know: Probiotics Can Improve More Than Just Stomach Health If you’re familiar with probiotics, you probably know that these “good bacteria,” found in such foods as yogurt and pickles, are associated with good digestive health. But the health benefits of probiotics are more extensive than just improving digestion. Experts now say that paying attention to your probiotic intake, including the use of probiotic supplements, can potentially help you achieve better health, from developing a stronger immune system to reducing stress. “Probiotics have formed a vital part of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern diets for thousands of years and are credited, in part, for the remarkably low rates of chronic, age-related diseases that prevail in those regions,” said Michael A. Smith, M.D., senior health scientist with Life Extension in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., and host of “Healthy Talk” on www.RadioMD.com.
Gut Health The human gastrointestinal system has the all-important job of digesting food and absorbing nutrients. If it fails at this, you’ll quickly become malnourished. These tasks are managed mostly by bacteria, and not by your own body. Foods and supplements that replenish important bacteria are called probiotics. Additionally, probiotics are said to ease inflammation by decreasing production of inflammatory proteins called cytokines.
Immunity Your gut system is exposed to lots of dangerous bacteria, molds and fungi. A vast majority of your immune defenses are right there in the gut. Probiotics can help keep these critical defenses functioning properly.
Stress Management Have you ever experienced “butterflies” in your stomach? This sensation isn’t just “in your head.” The gut contains more than 100 million neurons. One particular nerve, the vagus nerve, communicates directly with your brain. When you’re stressed, your digestive system suffers as a result. But new research shows that probiotics can potentially alleviate these symptoms. Though more research is needed in this area, scientists are uncovering new
ways that your mind is connected to your gut.
Reaping the Benefits Start by incorporating more probiotics into your diet. Sources include yogurt, sour pickles, certain soft cheeses and miso soup. While these foods do supply a small dose of beneficial bacteria, Smith says that if you’re not already doing so, you should consider supplementing your diet with probiotic supplements or foods with added probiotics. “Thanks to new research and the emerging field of pharmabiotics, you can increase your intake with a broad spectrum of probiotic products, as well,” Smith said. Remember, not all probiotics are created equal—there are many strains and preparations on the market. One of the complications many commercial probiotics face is their inability to overcome hurdles in the digestive tract before hitting their target area, which can limit their beneficial effect. Additionally, some supplements only provide one type of bacteria. It’s important to get clinically effective strains in whatever product you choose. To learn more, visit www.Lef.org/FlorAssist or call, toll-free, 1-(855)-870-0682. An improper balance of good-to-bad bacteria can wreak havoc throughout the body. But by being proactive about probiotics, you can better achieve optimal health.
TMTM
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Senior Voice America
Staff Publisher: Evan Gold evan@seniorvoiceamerica.com Associate Publisher: Timm Harmon timm@seniorvoiceamerica.com Managing Editor/Broadcast Producer: Deb Goldman deb@seniorvoiceamerica.com Editor: Lauren Potts lauren@seniorvoiceamerica.com Creative Director: Lourdes M. Sáenz lourdes@seniorvoiceamerica.com ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES • (813) 444-1011 Timm Harmon timm@seniorvoiceamerica.com Join our sales team. For information about opportunities throughout Florida and North America, email timm@seniorvoiceamerica.com.
On our radio show we regularly speak about being a better you. Now I don’t mean about being a “better person,” what I mean is about being a better version of yourself. Being happier, more satisfied and enjoying life on your terms. Way too often as we all get older we have regrets of the things we did wrong, opportunities missed and general mistakes and missteps we made in our lives. And for some of us those things haunt us through the last days on earth. So what can we do to let those things or actions go? What can we do to not let those thoughts haunt or nag at us for the rest of our lives? So as the New Year kicks off and you have a desire to be a “new and better you” and purge those regrets here are some little tidbits from our experts. 1. Accept and own what happened. You know you can’t sweep it under the “mental” rug. Like cheating in golf, you know you kicked that ball from under the tree, so you have to own it. 2. Forgive yourself. While our family and friends forgive us, we can be our own worst enemy. There are many of us that never forgive ourselves for making mistakes or doing wrong and to move past what we have done we need to forgive ourselves for doing the deed. Especially if the offended party has forgiven you then you need to own that forgiveness. 3. Make amends whenever possible. Sometimes it is not possible or it could make a situation worse by confronting the party you have wronged. If you can’t make it up to that person, maybe charitable acts to strangers or organizations will help? 4. Don’t do it again! It is that simple. You know that thing you do when you visit your son or daughter-in-law that annoys them? The thing that has caused problems? The next time you are all together and from that point on be that person you want to be. 5. And “do the work.” If you want to be that person that is happy then work hard at making other’s happy and feel good about themselves. You will see how it comes back time and time again. And don’t be afraid to do the things that make you happy. Too often I find individuals that are unhappy with their lives, but don’t know how to change it. Sometimes it is just as easy as taking that first step and after that allowing your momentum to carry you. You never know where it will take you, but if you keep an open mind you never know you just might enjoy the ride. Hoping all of our readers have a great beginning to 2015 and tune in to 1250am between 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. and you just might win some tickets to a concert or event in Tampa Bay.
Evan Gold
Contributors Abne M. Eisenberg • Jon Lynn
FROM THE EDITOR
Carolyn Shockey • Nick Thomas Evelyn Levin • Ruth Fanovich • Richard Pells Jean Mlincek • Joyce Holly • Peggy Buchanan Ben Souchek • Don Ardell • Enrico Saltarelli Would you like to write for Senior Voice America? Please email editor@seniorvoiceamerica.com.
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
FROM THE PUBLISHER A New Year, A New You
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Senior Voice America, Inc. P.O. BOX 1379 Lutz, FL 33548-1379 Phone (813) 444-1011 • Fax (813) 422-7966 www.seniorvoiceamerica.com
JANUARY 2015
The New Year’s Now and Not Yet
I never know quite how to feel about January. Some years, I’d say we are amiable companions…and the month is one of newness, adventure and opportunity. Other years, I’d like January to, well, stuff her beginnings, and send me backward to the best moments of the year just passed. But January is unassailable. She is not swayed by my nostalgia or my erstwhile fear of moving forward. She carries with her changes and chances, and if I can figure out how to meet her with decisiveness and courage, she links her arm in mine, and we step into new things like we’re not afraid of failing. This year, I must work to make January a welcome guest. Perhaps, like me, your 2014 was full to the brim with wonderful experiences, new friendships, and old dreams accomplished. If that’s the case, I think it takes faith to hold the golden past with open hands and accept January’s relentless momentum. Faith, patient and hopeful, that she will bring even more and better reasons to wake up smiling. And, I think it’s safe to say, there’s likely to be an extra measure of grace along the way—these beginnings have big shoes to fill, and I know I, despite my best efforts, am going to mess up. Perhaps 2014 brought you more than your share of obstacles and sorrow. If that’s you, you’re not alone. I know these Januarys, too. May your 2015 step forward to meet you with the warmth and energy of an old friend, heralding a season of renewal, transformation and time to grow, to live in a different and stronger way. All of that to say, in the end, that our beginnings belong to us. No matter how our Januarys introduce themselves, the truth is that we can begin again anytime we have need. Don’t be afraid if February blows in on a gust of cold wind and demands a change. By March, the beginnings we were most afraid of may have burst into bloom.
Lauren Potts
JANUARY 2015
Senior Voice America
Health Roundup
Top 10 Fitness and Nutrition Tips
for Older Adults
By Peggy Buchanan
Today’s adults are living longer, healthier lives, due in part to better fitness and nutrition programs. With the number of Americans 65+ expected to represent 20 percent of the U.S. population by 2050, exercise and diet are more important than ever. The tips below can help older adults live longer, healthier and better lives and enhance overall wellness into their later years. 1. Fight afternoon fatigue – Fatigue is a common problem among older adults, especially after lunch. Having a glass of water and a high-antioxidant food like a prune can revitalize the body and stimulate the mind. 2. Exercise from the neck up – Keeping the brain active and fit is imperative to the health of older adults. Not only does it stave off memory-loss illnesses, like Alzheimer’s and dementia, but it also fosters executive function. Try word games and recall exercises. For example, find five red objects during a walk in the neighborhood, and record them when back home. 3. Pole walk – Walking poles allow for more balanced mobility than walkers or canes. When walking with poles, you engage the muscles of the upper tor so, which increases upper body strength and cardiovascular endurance. Consult with a physician before making the switch to poles. 4. Dine in duos – Those who share meals with others eat less than those who eat alone. This is an easy weight-loss tactic and one that fosters social interaction and engagement. While this is easy for those aging in community, older adults aging in their homes can attempt to have meals with family or friends at least several times a week. 5. Break routine – Routine limits brain stimulation. Introduce new foods or new ways of eating the same food. For example, replace canned peaches with freshly sliced ones. Try taking a different route to the grocery store or church. 6. Sole Support— As we age, the fat pads on the bottom of the feet compress, creating fatigue and pain. Consider wearing supportive shoes for better stability and socks that have extra padding and a wicking agent to keep feet dry and comfortable. 7. Tend and Befriend— Volunteering your time to help others has been documented to be beneficial to your health. The experience of bonding, nurturing and socializing can release hormones capable of suppressing anxiety and psychological stress responses. 8. Get good sleep— Good quality and quantity of sleep not only allows muscles and joints to rest and repair, but also provides the downtime for the brain necessary to maintain good mental acuity. 9. Take your time—Slow down and smell the roses! Rushing around creates high anxiety and increases the risk for falling. By taking your time and being more mindful, the ability to focus and inhibit distractions maximizes cognitive ability. 10. Dance like there’s no tomorrow— Older adults getting regular physical exercise are 60 percent less likely to get dementia. Exercise increases oxygen to the brain and releases a protein that strengthens cells and neurons. Dance involves all of the above, plus the cerebral activity present in learning and memory. Peggy Buchanan is the coordinator of vitality/wellness programming for Front Porch and the director of fitness, aquatics and physical therapy at Vista del Monte Retirement Community in Santa Barbara, Calif.
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Senior Voice America
JANUARY 2015
Health Roundup Are You Getting Your Eyes Checked Often Enough? Are you taking good enough care of your eyes? According to a new study, your gender and where you live may indicate if you are practicing good eye health. Women go to eye doctors 28 percent more than men, according to the 2013 Eye Health Index released by VSP Vision Care, the largest not-for-profit vision benefits and services company in the country. Analysis showed that women, who are statistically at greater risk for eye-related diseases, make a more concerted effort to care for their eyes. The research also concluded that Boise City, Idaho, is the top city where more residents took care of their eyes in 2012. Boise City had the highest rate of eye exams compared to any other city on the index for the past two years. Other cities ranking in the top 10 eye-healthy cities are Sacramento, Oklahoma City-Tulsa, Wichita, Columbus (Ohio), Des Moines, Birmingham, Denver, Raleigh and the San Francisco Bay Area. In addition to identifying vision correction needs, eye doctors are often first to detect signs of serious health conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. More details about the new study, along with eye care tips, can be found at www.vspblog.com/healthyeyes.
EVAN AND DEB RECOMMEND: VIM & VIGR Compression Socks Compression socks were initially used to help increase blood circulation in diabetics, but, over the past several years, they have been reinvented for a multitude of benefits. VIM & VIGR, an inventive and stylish line of compression socks for men and women, uses advanced Gradient Pressure™ knitting technology to energize legs by increasing the circulation of freshly oxygenated blood. These dynamic and fashionable socks prevent and reduce spider and varicose veins, inhibit swelling and alleviate leg soreness and heaviness. These knee-high socks are available in a choice of wool, cotton or nylon that helps support a healthy lifestyle by boosting the flow of fresh blood to your legs, whether you have a sedentary or highly active job. Research shows that excessive hours sitting or standing at a time can be harmful to leg circulation and oxygenation. VIM & VIGR’s combination of innovative compression technology and stylish designs results in socks that work as hard as you do. “Our ultimate goal at VIM & VIGR is to help more people experience the benefits of compression socks every day,” said Michelle Huie, founder and president of VIM & VIGR. “Many of us have jobs that require us to sit or stand for long periods of time, and this can have serious health and energy implications that affect your quality of life. VIM & VIGR breathes life back into your legs, but still allows you to express your own personality.” This line of socks offer a compression level of 15-20 mmHg (millimeter per mercury), with graduated pressure that is tightest at the ankle and becomes less so as it continues up the leg. The socks are specially designed with a contoured leg and heel, as well as a soft toe pocket for added comfort. VIM & VIGR brings style and breakthrough compression technology together in order to broaden the market beyond athletic recovery and medical necessity.
JANUARY 2015
Senior Voice America
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humor
You Have My Sympathy, Cyrano! For almost all of my life, I’ve wanted to have a nose job. But then I found out the name of the procedure—rhinoplasty—and I decided to stick with the schnoz. I mean, I have my dignity. Did the person who named this procedure not realize the humiliating image the term “rhinoplasty” conjures up? Why lay this term on someone who already hates his or her snout? I mean, it’s bad enough that Mother Nature seems compelled to add warts, carbuncles and boogers to something that’s already considered ugly, don’t you think? Sometimes I want to ask God the Dr. Phil question when it comes to noses: “What were you thinking!” Seriously, with all due respect to the Creator, some noses are duds: the pig’s snout, the bird beak, the ski jump, the honker, the hook, the bulbous Karl Malden proboscis, and, last but not least, “da nose” of all noses—the Jimmy Durante schnoz. Big noses, in general, garner little appreciation. The talk is always about eyes, lips or boobs—and it seems the bigger these are, the better. Not so with the schnoz. Tell me, ye of the Big Nose Sisterhood, how romantic is it to hear, “I’m enamored of your nose,” or “I could get lost in your nostrils”? Uh, huh. Big noses simply ain’t pretty. Mine looks like the honker on Snuffy Smith, the comic strip character. Trust me, no one with a nose like that fares well in life. Just look at Cyrano and Pinocchio, poor fellows. Sure, there’s Barbara Streisand, known not only for her voice but for her extra-long nose. But, let’s face it, her nose opened the door for a slew of ethnic-looking actresses; my nose just opens mouths. Even as a child, I was aware of my big nose. Ever hear the saying, “She can’t see past the nose on her face”? That was me. It was always there, blocking my view. I began to feel cross-eyed straining to see beyond it. I do not jest. Then, in high school, I would often go to the cafeteria concession stand at lunchtime to get an ice-cream bar or a Three Musketeers. There was always the same smarty-pants student volunteer behind the counter who would yell,
By Jean Mlincek
“Duck! She’s turning our way!”—implying that my nose would knock over the entire crew. Go ahead and laugh. Snort, if you choose. I will feel avenged by the latter. Even Hollywood, which glamorizes everything, has made a spectacle of big noses. Consider a couple of the “big nose jokes” (about 20 of them!) from the movie “Roxanne”: “It must be wonderful to wake up in the morning and smell the coffee . . . in Brazil,” or “Laugh and the world laughs with you. Sneeze and it’s goodbye Seattle.” My Mom used to say, “Jeanie, a nose is a nose is a nose.” Who nose? Maybe she was right.
Jean Mlincek is a freelance writer who resides in St. Petersburg, Fla.
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Senior Voice America
TINSELTOWN talks
Co-stars Remember Elvis, the Actor For many, the title, “King of Rock and Roll” is reserved for one man: Elvis Presley. Had he lived, the King would have celebrated his 80th birthday on Jan. 8, 2015. Unlike most departed singers, who are remembered largely for their music, Elvis lives on through a phenomenal number of appearances in scripted motion pictures—31 in all—beginning with “Love Me Tender,” in 1956, and ending 13 years later with “Change of Habit” in 1969. His movies provide a unique glimpse into another dimension of one the 20th century’s greatest entertainers. Although his films were often dismissed due to weak and predictable scripts, critics generally regarded Elvis as a surprisingly good actor. But what Donna Butterworth with Elvis in the 1966 did co-stars think about working with film, “Paradise, Hawaiian Style.” Elvis? In 1966, 10-year-old Donna Butterworth co-starred in “Paradise, Hawaiian Style,” the second Elvis film set in Hawaii. “My mom and dad took me to see ‘Blue Hawaii’ when I was just a little girl, and I fell in love with him right then and there,” Butterworth said. “I used to listen to his records, and I couldn’t get enough Elvis.” Butterworth recalled filming her first scene on the cliffs of Makapuu, on Oahu. “I had to run up into Elvis’s arms, and call out, ‘Uncle Rick, Uncle Rick!’ But I had only met him a few minutes before that,” Butterworth said. So, when the director called ‘action,’ I ran up and got in his arms, and his face was about four inches from my face. After all the anticipation of meeting Elvis Presley and working with him, I just froze. I couldn’t believe I was so close to this beautiful man! All the crew cracked up, because they knew I was so enamored. In fact, Elvis laughed the hardest—he just loved to laugh.” Unlike Butterworth, 7-year-old Susan Olsen wasn’t an Elvis fan when she briefly appeared in the talent contest audition scene in Elvis’s second-to-last film, “The Trouble with Girls” (1969). “I couldn’t understand all the hype over him, and I didn’t even think he was good-looking!” said Olsen, who went on to play youngest daughter Cindy on the popular ‘60s TV show, “The Brady Bunch.” That changed after their first brief encounter. “I remember that a bunch of the kids’ mothers suddenly started screaming. Elvis had come out of his dressing room, and they crowded around him for autographs. I thought, ‘What the heck! I’ll See ELVIS on Page 23
By Nick Thomas
JANUARY 2015
CANCER ANSWERS® MOFFITT.org |
www.facebook.com/MoffittCancerCenter |
twitter.com/MoffittNews |
youtube.com/user/MoffittNews
CONNECT WITH US Moffitt Cancer Center Provides Toll-Free Hotline To Help With Cancer Questions
Nothing causes feelings of worry, fear and uncertainty like cancer. And there are few people in the world who haven’t been touched by it. If you or someone you know has received a cancer diagnosis or is seeking information about cancer screenings, we are here to help. We have a team of registered oncology nurses available to provide informational and educational answers within a service called Cancer Answers®. Our team assists callers from Florida, the U.S. and around the world with answers to their cancer questions. Cancer Answers® offers the same service to non-English speaking and international callers. The conversations that take place set Moffitt apart from many other cancer care facilities. Moffitt is the only National Cancer Institute (NCI) designated comprehensive cancer center based in Florida and one of 41 such centers nationwide. Moffitt is one of few cancer centers that provides a registered nursestaffed cancer information service. Our nurses use a patient-information technique called telephone triage, which allows patients to receive im-
mediate guidance to questions regarding symptoms, diagnoses and treatments. While the nurses cannot provide diagnosis or treatment options, they can direct patients to the appropriate online resources, referrals or help with pre-registration for appointments. Our nurses can also provide information about clinical trials and studies available at Moffitt. You can reach Cancer Answers® by calling 1-888-MOFFITT (1-888663-3488) and select option #2. If you connect with us after hours, leave a message and we’ll return your call the next business day. Our registered nurses are also available online via Live Chat between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. EST. You can also reach the team by email at CancerAnswers@Moffitt.org. Remember - If you have a question that needs an immediate answer, you should call your physician or another medical professional. If you have a medical emergency, call 911 or other local numbers used for emergencies. The information given by the Cancer Answers® service is for educational purposes and is not intended to replace the advice you receive from your physician.
If you or someone you know has a concern, call 1-888-MOFFITT (1-888-663-3488) or visit MOFFITT.org.
Marlyn Mason and Elvis in “Trouble with Girls.”
JANUARY 2015
Senior Voice America
around the home
Tips to Prevent Slips and Falls in Your Bathroom Roughly 234,000 injuries occur in the bathroom annually, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. And while children and adults over 70 are the two groups most at risk, more than half of all injuries involve people between ages 25 and 64. A few safety prevention measures can make your bathroom safer: • Grab bars: Gripping things like shower doors or towel bars can lead to injury. Reduce your risk of failing in the tub or shower by installing a grab bar. • Seats: For those with balance concerns, a seat, chair or bench in the shower can be a good idea, as shower floors can become particularly slick. Also, remember to use a shower mat. • Toilet safety: Elevated toilet seats can help those with mobility issues ease onto the seat. Safety bars are another smart addition. If aesthetics are a priority, check out manufacturers who put a premium on design and whose products meet the safety requirements set forward by the Americans with Disabilities Act. For example, Moen Home Care offers safety fixtures in varying styles and finishes like chrome, brushed nickel and old world bronze. More information can be found at www.Moen.com/homecare. With a few additions to your bathrooms, you can make them serene, stylish and safe.
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Page 10 From HOUSE SALE Page 1
Senior Voice America Or, do you have the funds to spend to get
the house ready for sale? I have heard numerous times from sellers that they have been told by agents that they would need to paint, put new floor coverings in and possibly update the kitchen and bathrooms, etc., if they want to put their house on the market. Do you want to be living in the house while all this is happening? Do you have or want to spend the money for these items? Real estate agents typically want to list houses that are in nice condition. It will generally make their job (selling the house) easier if it is. The question for yourself is: Do you want the expense and potential hassle of this? If your expectations are to get “top dollar” when selling your house, the house better be in better condition than the competition. As mentioned earlier, if it has been several years since updating items, most buyers are going to expect the item to be updated or will discount the house if it is not. And most buyers will typically think they need to spend more money than what is really needed to update a house. Most buyers do not have the experience of what it takes to update a house, if needed, or the imagination of what they could do with a house. Listing and putting the house on the market: To start, a real estate agent will typically be a little more optimistic about the selling price than is realistic. If you decide to list, one of the things you need to do is to have the agent show you the statistics of the market for your area. Not just some, but all of the stats. You want to know what your competition is, if you list your house. You want to know what houses were on the market but didn’t sell. And, you want to know what sold, at what price it sold, how long it took to sell and the condition of the house that sold. You will also want to compare your house to similar houses, such as a ranch, raised ranch, split entry, etc. It is generally not accurate to compare a ranch to a two-story or split-entry house. The condition of the houses that sold is very important. Did the “top price”
JANUARY 2015
comparables have new kitchens with granite countertops and new cabinets, new bathrooms with tiled baths and showers, etc.? Showing your house: Are you prepared to get your house into show-ready condition and keep it that way until your house is sold? One of the frustrating items to deal with when listing a house is calls from agents, at inconvenient times, who just happen to be in the area and would like to show your house. Do you work with that inconvenience, and let them show the house, or do you say no, and possibly lose a potential buyer for your house? One of the other concerns I hear from sellers is the thought of not knowing who may be walking through the house. Is the person that is looking at and walking through the house a real buyer, or someone who is checking the house out for what valuables might be in the house? Not knowing when the house will sell: One of the most common concerns I hear is wondering when the house will sell. I talk with people often, who say, I would like to sell my house and move, but I don’t know when I’ll be able to move into the house or apartment that I’m looking at. Or, I can move, but I don’t want to have a vacant house that I would be worried about taking care of. With a vacant house, you still need to or should keep utilities on, you still need to keep it clean and in showing condition if it’s on the market, and you will need to get insurance for vacant houses, which is much more expensive, due to the increased risk for insurers of vacant houses. Finding a buyer that can qualify for a loan: If you list your house, you are also most likely looking for a buyer that will need to get a loan to buy your house. If you’re able to find a buyer, it is only the first of three or four hurdles to get over before actually selling the house. You have a buyer and a signed agreement to sell your house. Now what? First, the buyer will most likely want a whole-house inspection. You can’t blame the buyer for wanting this inspection. After all, buyers typically aren’t house experts and want to make sure they are not buying a house with defects. However, depending on the buyer and the market conditions, the inspection can turn into another Continues on next page
JANUARY 2015
Senior Voice America
negotiating opportunity for the buyer at the expense of you, the seller. Depending on the house inspector, this can be a smooth process, or it can turn into the buyer nickel-and-diming you for any item they can identify. I encountered one inspection that even identified a light bulb not working as a “deficiency” that the buyer wanted corrected. The inspector, in an effort to be as thorough as possible, will find any and all items, no matter how small, as deficiencies. What you, the seller, and the buyer ultimately do about those deficiencies is up to your negotiations. Since most buyers will be getting a loan to purchase your house, the lender will most likely get an appraisal on the house. The appraiser’s job, as the inspector, is to make sure there are no known deficiencies with the house. The lender wants to know that they will not be loaning money on a house where there would be a risk to their loan. If there are deficiencies, the lender will want those corrected before making the loan. Again, this will lead to a negotiation between buyer and seller as to who will pay for them. Depending on the current credit markets, how quickly or easily a loan will close can IF YOU vary greatly. I’ve worked with lenders who have performed as expected, and I have had the misfortune to work with lenders that seemed to invent excuses as to why they could not fund a loan. Until the loan is funded, and the sale is “closed,” you will have the concern of wondering if the house will actually sell and close. Unfortunately, in a situation where the buyer is getting a loan, the sale of your house is essentially held hostage to the buyer’s lender and their ability to fund the loan. NET proceeds from the sale of your house: This is the big unknown when it comes to selling your house traditionally. When you put your house on the market, there is typically no way of knowing what you will actually net from the sale of your house.
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Senior Voice America
TRAVEL
Should You Go Formal on a Cruise? We are asked this many times as travelers prepare for their cruise experience. Almost every cruise line has adopted a country club atmosphere for its main dining rooms. However, most still typically have one formal night on a short cruise, and two formal nights on a cruise of seven nights. While dressing up for the evening is a personal choice, the fact that you are on vacation, you are relaxed and you may already have that tan from your days in the sun mean that you have the recipe for a great photo opportunity. On formal nights, the on-ship professional photographers have special backdrops set up, ensuring you will have a picture that you will be happy to purchase. Packing formal wear may be the reason most people are hesitant in the first place. Begin by packing carefully and thoughtfully. Staterooms have large closet space, so consider bringing a favorite hanger for your formalwear, so it will be properly stored in the closet. For ladies, dresses and pantsuits are fine. Choose your footwear carefully: Remember, you are on a moving vessel. For gentlemen, you are welcome to bring a tuxedo. However, dress slacks and a jacket are fine. Ties are optional. If you have still decided that you do not
By Enrico Saltarelli
want to be formal, you are still welcome to dine in the main dining room on formal nights. For ladies, you will want to pack something comfortable that is casually elegant, while gentlemen will want to pack dress pants, a collared shirt and closed toe shoes. Remember, comfort is still the No. 1 consideration. You are, after all, on vacation. Each cruise line does things a little differently, so it is always best to check with your travel agent, who can provide you with the most up-to-date information. Enrico Saltarelli of Salty Breeze Cruise Planners can be reached at esaltarelli@ cruiseplanners.com. Photos: Angela Mann Photography Www.angelamannphotography.com Makeup and Hair: Monique McLaughlin www.makeupandhairbymonique.com Stylist: Ro Martinez www.modelingatanyagebook.net Model: Terri Beach
JANUARY 2015
JANUARY 2015
Senior Voice America
Page 13
Health Roundup
Nature’s Cure for Arthritis May Have Been Found in Unlikeliest of Places Scientists discover hyaluronic acid, a natural joint lubrication compound, in the comb of roosters!
In 1996 scientists successfully
extracted and purified the hyaluronic acid found within the rooster’s
comb,
FDA-approved
creating product
a
now
for
the
treatment and relief of knee pain resulting from Osteoarthritis.
Nature has provided the hu-
man race with medical breakthroughs
throughout
recorded
history. One example occurred in 1796, when Edward Jenner developed a method to protect people from smallpox by exposing them to the cowpox virus. In his famous experiment, he rubs pus from a dairymaid’s cowpox pustule into scratches on the arm of his gardener’s 8-year-old son, and then exposes him to smallpox six weeks later (which he does not develop). The process becomes known as vaccination, from the Latin, “vacca,” for “cow.” Jenner is sometimes called the founding father of immunology.
Now, although medicine has come a long way since the 18th century, mod-
ern-day scientists are still discovering the healing powers of nature in the unlikeliest of places every day. One current example of this resides in the red crest of the rooster’s comb. You see, this anatomical feature of male chickens is primarily made of a naturally occurring substance called hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is also present in humans, and is a primary ingredient in synovial fluid, the body’s natural joint lubricant.
As we age, and under the stress of continued use, the body synovial fluid
can become depleted, especially in the knees, which are the bodies largest weight-bearing joint. This can lead to a reduction in joint space, resulting in loss of cartilage, swelling and discomfort, as well a reduced strength and limited range of motion. This process results in a condition known as Osteoarthritis of the knee, sometimes referred to as “wear and tear arthritis.”
Until recently the primary arthritis treatments for Osteoarthritis of the
knee were limited to corticosteroid injections, physical therapy, knee replacement surgery, or simply learning to live with the pain and frustration of a mobility limited lifestyle. That is, of course, until the rooster came along… In 1996 scientists successfully extracted, purified, and concentrated the hyaluronic acid found within the rooster’s comb into a product used for the treatment and relief of knee pain resulting from Osteoarthritis known as Hyalgan. This product is now used as an alternative to surgery around the globe and has helped countless individuals regain their mobility and alleviate pain.
Locally a group of forward thinking physicians have combined Hyalgan
injections performed under guidance with unloading knee bracing and specialized physical therapy protocols to deliver highly successful clinical outcomes for their patients. This unique protocol is covered by most major insurance carriers including Medicare.
To learn more about this procedure and if it may be the right solution for
your chronic knee pain please call Bain Complete Wellness at (813) 435-3978 or visit them online at www.NoPainTampa.com
Reflections Recently, I read a plastic surgeon’s advertisement that stated that how you see yourself on the outside influences how you feel about yourself on the inside. While that may be true, I tend to think that it’s just the opposite. How you feel about yourself on the inside influences how you project yourself to others. A reflection in the mirror is the exact replica of its subject. But a troubled person, with self-worth and esteem issues, often sees something entirely different than what is reflected back to them. This brings to mind a young patient I had when working in an eating disorder unit. She was about 5 feet tall and maybe 75 pounds. She perceived herself as obese, and would move about the facility hugging a bed pillow in front of herself so no one would see how heavy she was. The mirrors in her room were not distorted—nor was her vision. She saw herself entirely different in the mirror of her mind. I admit the ads for liposuction get my attention, especially when my clothes get a little tight, and I find a few folds of adipose tissue here and there. I no longer wear a belt that definitely emphasizes my previously small waist. That is no more, as I have been quite busy trying to keep up with my hips. Botox really seems like an answer when I use my 5x magnification mirror to “shave” my chin with the tweezers and see all the new wrinkles that weren’t there the last time. So I’ve purchased a 3x magnifying glass as an alternative, hoping to spare the enticement of repetitive injections, and, with my luck, end up looking like I have a mask on. The older we get, the more there is we have to accept, like graying and thinning hair on the head, but growing profusely everywhere else; the sagging and flapping of everything; failing eyesight and hearing; and teeth that fall out and need to be replaced by a mouthful of plastic that also falls out or floats. That’s not to say that we don’t do what we can to minimize the traumas and try to confront the inevitable, but it’s a continual challenge. Adjust we must. While I will be the first to tell you what I see in the mirror isn’t what it used to be, I try to find styles that are more attractive on my aged figure, and camouflage my less-than-perfect body. The truth be told, I was never mistaken for Bridget anyway. Hairstyles and makeup that enhance the face and brings out our better qualities go a long way to make the best of what we have. For you guys reading this, parting your hair at the ear and doing a “comb-over” isn’t cool, especially when the wind blows. Bald is beautiful. The realization is this: What truly matters is what we are on the inside, as it reflects who we really are—something no mirror can capture, but is readily seen by everyone we meet, in the sparkle of the eyes, a smile, humor and a caring attitude. While plastic surgery has its place, many people find that inner work still needs to be done, as plastic surgery didn’t fix the misery they carry inside. As we start another year, strive to let your inner beauty define you. Do what you can to present your best self to the world, and love who you are, wrinkles and all. It is an “inside job.” Seen in “Reader’s Digest”: “I don’t want to brag or make you envious, but I can still wear the same earrings I wore in high school.”
By Carolyn Shockey
Carolyn Shockey, BMSc, is an ordained minister, retired RN and substance abuse counselor. She is currently studying for her master’s degree in metaphysics. She has written two books and numerous articles geared to seniors. She can be reached at ajourney636@gmail.com.
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Senior Voice America
JANUARY 2015
Senior Happenings Florida Gulf Coast Clusters Dog Show
Free, confidential help with all Medicare questions, long-term care planning, and prescription assistance resources. 12:30 p.m. Free. The Library is located at 4125 East Lake Road, East The largest dog show cluster in the state comes to TamLake, FL. For more information (727) 773-2665. pa Bay, featuring 10 American Kennel Club all-breed dog shows, conformation, junior showmanship, obedience triFlorida RV SuperShow als, rally trials and free show tours to learn all about AKC Florida State Fairgrounds dog shows. Visitors can go behind the scenes and learn January 14 -18 how a dog is judged and meet dog handlers. Visitors may The theme of the 30th annual event is, “Take It Outalso bring their dogs not entering the show to participate in the Doggie Fun Zone, an obstacle course for dogs (entry side” to adhere to the growing interest in outdoor recrefee is $12). There will be vendors and a food court avail- ation, including outdoor kitchens, televisions and stereos. able. Presented by the Clearwater Kennel Club, Inverness The event will have representation from every major RV Florida Kennel Club, Manatee Kennel Club, Pasco Florida manufacturer as well as hundreds of accessory booths exKennel Club and Tampa Bay Kennel Club. Starting at 7:00 hibitors, seminars and free shuttle service. A favorite of all visitors is the free entertainment, from clowns and unicya.m. Free admission; $5 parking. Florida Classic Park is located at 5360 Lockhart Road, cle riders, to barbershop quartets and bagpipe bands. This year, the Supershow will host the exhibit, The Wall That Brooksville, FL. For more information (813) 415-1111. Heals, a Vietnam Veterans Memorial. From 9:00 a.m. Gem, Jewelry and Mineral Show and Sale Price: $10; 16 and younger free. The FL State Fairgrounds are located at 4802 U.S. 301 Largo Cultural Center N., Tampa, FL. For more information (813) 741-0488 or January 9, 10 & 11 www.frvta.org. Take in the natural beauty of cut gems, and sparkling silver and gold jewelry, as the Pinellas Geological Society, Manatee County Fair along with area gem and mineral clubs, hosts 39th annual Manatee County Fairgrounds show and sale, with unique ornaments, wire wrap, beadJanuary 15 - 25 ing, hourly drawings ($1.50 donation for drawing) and colThe fair is a showcase for the best of Manatee County, lections of rocks and minerals. From 10:00 a.m. Free featuring exciting exhibits and vendors, livestock shows admission. Largo Cultural Center is located at 105 Central Park and auctions, competitions, a thrill-packed midway, a vaDrive, Largo, FL. For more information: (727) 709-3236. riety of great entertainment and, of course, fair food — all packed into ten days and nights. Swing Dance Friday Located at 1402 14th Avenue W., Palmetto, FL. For more information (941)722-1639 or www.manateecounLargo Community Center tyfair.com.
Florida Classic Park January 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 16, 17 & 18
Charcoal Drawing Class
Brandon Recreation Center Monday 5, 12, 19 & 26
Carol Karow, a Ringling College of Art + Design graduate, will teach beginner Charcoal Drawing Classes weekly on each Monday for one hour from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. The course will study light and shadow on an object for threedimensional drawing. Charcoal Drawing study is “basic” even for computer drawing. Cost is $6.00 per class. Students bring their own charcoal supplies. The Recreation Ctr. is located at 510 E. Sadie St., Brandon, FL. For more information (813) 681-7324 or (813) 635 -8179. Who We Are: Opening Reception
Art Center Manatee January 8 - 31
January 9, 16, 23 & 30
Savoy Swing provides the music to keep you swingin’ All Veterans Career Fair A juried, invitational exhibition of work by Florida Art- around the dance floor. Come early for a pre-dance lesson. Straz Center for the Performing Arts ists Group Area III artists, which will remain on display Price: $8, $7 with rec. card. 7:00 p.m. January 15 through the month of January. Reception starts at 5:00 The Largo Comm. Ctr. is located at 400 Alt Keene We’re partnered with DAV to deliver this career event p.m. Free. Road, Largo, FL. For more information (727) 518-3131. for anyone who has served, is active duty, in the National The Art Center is located at 209 Ninth St. W., BradenGuard and Reserves, and their spouses. There will be Winter Jam ton, FL. For more information (941) 746-2862. hundreds of jobs available for veterans and spouses with Amalie Arena many companies available! 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Pre-regThunder by the Bay January 10 ister for FREE here: https://events.recruitmilitary.com/ Downtown Sarasota Grammy-nominated, platinum selling Christian rock- events/tampa-all-veterans-job-fair-january-15-2015. January 8 - 11 ers Skillet will headline the 20th annual tour with Jeremy For more information (513)677-7047 or dturner@reGreat looking motorcycles, a “Born to be wild” party Camp, Francesca Battisetelli, Building 429, About A Mile, cruitmilitary.com. with live music, and a biker’s street festival all in one. You For King and Country, Family Force 5 and evangelist Tony Sunshine Music and Blues Festival even have the chance to get on your own bike and win a Nolan. NewSong will host once again. From 6:00 p.m. cool grand during this fun weekend as the Thunder By The Price: $10 door only. Vinoy Park Amalie Arena is located at 401 Channelside Dr., TamBay Sarasota Motorcycle Festival! Sporting Clays tournaJanuary 17 ment with lunch on Thur. at the Knights Trail Range in pa, FL. For more information (813) 301-2500 or www. Once again, the award-winning Tedeschi Truck Band Venice; $500 per team or $125 for individual. Festival’s jamtour.com. will headline this year’s festival featuring their best lineKick Start Party on Fri., 7:00 p.m. at the Francis Ballroom up yet on two stages, with a wider array of craft beers and Downtown Dunedin Art Festival at Louie’s Modern, 1289 N. Palm Ave., Sarasota. Whiskey, menus from a wider variety of food vendors. Grace Potter, Main Street Dunedin Wine, Craft Beer, & Cigar Tastings, Open Bar, Food StaDickey Betts, The Chris Robinson Brotherhood, Los Lotions and music. Dress: Biker chic/casual. 7 p.m. - 12 a.m. January 11 bos, The Both ( Aimee Mann and Ted Leo), Sean ChamAdmission tickets are $100 each with a limited amount A wide variety of unique and affordable handmade art bers and more will also perform. From 11:00 a.m. Price: available and must be purchased in advance and on line. by approximately 100 crafters from across the country. $39.50 early bird, $49.50-$99.50. Sat. festival from 11:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m. with live enter- From 10:00 a.m. Vinoy Park is located at 501 Fifth Ave. NE., St. Peterstainment and street vendors. Sun. the 16 Class Bike Show The festival will take place at 271 Main St., Dunedin, burg, FL. For more information www.sunshinemusicandtakes place. You can register your bike from 10:30 a.m.. - FL 34698 Price: Free. For more information (561) 746- blues.com. 1:30 p.m. for $15 an entry. 1st and 2nd place trophy win- 6615 or www.artfestival.com. 23rd Annual Sarasota Dollhouse Miniatures Festival ners in each class will be announced at 4:00 p.m. K-9 Partners for Patriots fundraiser For all event details www.thunderbythebay.org. Ramada Marina Hotel Managing Your Money
Palm Harbor Library January 8
Participants can join the Florida Master Money Mentors for a money managing workshop. Discussions will include, evaluating wants and needs, setting financial goals, building a spending and savings plan and using a money management calendar as a tracking and planning tool. Adult participants in the class can request a Florida Master Money Mentor. 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Free; registration required. Palm Harbor Library is located at 2330 Nebraska Ave., Palm Harbor, FL. For more information call Nan Jensen at (727) 582-2104.
Cove restaurant January 12
January 17 - 18
A Sock Hop to benefit K-9 Partners for Patriots, a nonprofit organization that supplies and trains dogs for veterans with PTSD at no cost to the veteran. The event includes a silent auction. Food and bar available. DJ services donated by Annie. From 5:00 p.m. $5 donation at the door to benefit K-9 Partners for Patriots. The Cove restaurant is located at 3192 Shoal Line Blvd., Hernando Beach, FL. For more informaiton (352) 597-3878.
A festival to be enjoyed by collectors and lovers of dolls, teddy bears and more. Saturday ($18) preview 5:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m. includes refreshments, weekend admission, early sales and preview gathering with the Artisans Exhibits from the Private Collection of Sarasota and Bradenton Club Members - Sunday 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Adults $7, under 12 $3. The Ramada Marina Hotel is located at 7150 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL. For more informationwww. mollycromwell.com.
SHINE Medicare Help
Clearwater Distance Classic
East Lake Community Library January 13
Clearwater Downtown Merchants Association January 18
JANUARY 2015
Senior Voice America
Page 15
Senior Happenings Athletes can choose the distance that suites their abilities from 5K to 50K. The USATF certified road races take runners over bridges, causeways and through parks. Starting at 7:05 a.m. Price: $18-$75. Event takes place at 320 Cleveland St, Clearwater, FL. For more information (727) 447-0500 or www.active.com. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Leadership Breakfast St. Pete
Coliseum January 19
This 29th annual breakfast is designed to bring the St. Petersburg community together to celebrate Dr. King’s legacy and to present leadership awards to community members. Frederick Douglass Haynes III, pastor and social activist, serves as key note speaker. From 7:30 a.m. Price: $25 advance, $30 at the door. The Coliseum is located at 535 Fourth Ave. N, St. Petersburg, FL. For more information (727) 892-5202 or www.mlkbreakfast-stpete.com.
Gift of Gold
Carrollwood Country Club January 24
This year’s Hillel Academy fundraiser will follow “A Night on the Red Carpet” theme with silent auctions, musical entertainment by Dueling Pianos, attendee photographs by Robin Reiss Photography and a kosher buffet. 7:30 p.m. Price: $75. The Carrollwood C. C. is located at 13903 Clubhouse Dr, Tampa, FL. For more information (727) 421-7733. St. Pete Beach Community Yard Sale
St. Pete Beach Community Ctr. & Horan Park January 24
More than 50 vendors sell hand crafted and gently used items inside and outside the waterfront facility. From 8:00 a.m. Free (items individually priced). Event location is at 7701 Boca Ciega Drive, St. Pete Beach, FL. For more information (727) 363-9245.
Tampa Bay Black Heritage Golf Classic
Texas Hold ‘Em Benefit
Rogers Park Golf Course January 19
In part of the Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival, this 9th annual tournament is meant to provide networking opportunities to people of all cultures while providing a four person scramble with food and prizes. Benefits The First Tee of Tampa Bay. Starting at 12:00 p.m. Price: $95. Rogers Park is located at 7911 N. Willie Black Dr., Tampa, FL. For more information (813) 629-1945 or www. tampablackheritage.org. Lumps and Bumps
Aging Well Center January 21
Orthopedic oncologist David Cheong, MD, will discuss concerns for lumps and bumps on your body, and when to seek treatment. Noon. Free The Aging Well Ctr. is located at 1501 N. Belcher Rd., Clearwater, FL. For more information (727) 724-3070. Tea Dance Series
Derby Lane Poker Room January 25
Put on your best poker face for tournament to benefit Brain Tumor Alliance that raises awareness of brain tumors, raises funds for research and helps improve quality of life for those with brain cancer. Check-in at 1 p.m., tournament starts at 2:00 p.m. Price: $50, includes appetizers and one beer. Derby Lane is located at 10490 Gandy Blvd., St. Petersburg, FL. For more information (727) 781-4673 or www.texasholdem.braintumoralliance.org. Advancements in Hip Surgery
Bardmoor Medical Arts Building January 27
Orthopedic surgeon Andrew Cooper, MD, will discuss various hip pain solutions, including a new approach with a faster recovery. 12:00 p.m. Free. Event takes place at 8839 Bryan Dairy Road, Largo, FL.
Coliseum January 21 & February 4
Get some exercise and make friends in an afternoon of ballroom dancing to live and taped music. Instructions available starting at 11:30 a.m. Price: $7, $10 dance and instruction. The Coliseum is located at 535 Fourth Ave. N, St. Petersburg, FL. For more information (727) 892-5715. Tampa Bay Home Show
Tropicana Field January 23 - 25
The largest home show in Florida’s west coast brings the area’s top home improvement experts, along with more than 500 exhibits with everything related to Florida homes, home improvement, home entertainment and landscaping. Also includes live entertainment, seminars, demonstrations, giveaways and do-it-yourself ideas from experts. Starting at 10:00 a.m. all three days. Free. Tropicana Field is located at 1 Tropicana Dr., St. Petersburg, FL. For more information (727) 893-8523 or www.tampabayhomeshows.com. Forks & Corks University: Half Day
Michael’s on East January 24
You Had Me at Pinot, and Amore Vino Italiano! Learn what makes a world-class pinot noir in morning session, with panelists from Martin Ray, Saintsbury, other wineries. Big, bold and beautiful cabernets are the focus, with California’s leading producers including Hook and Ladder Winery, Alexander Valley Vineyards, Silverado Vineyards. Afternoon session explores Italian wine regions and varieties. Four course luncheon and wine pairings. 9:30 a.m. $95, plus service charges for full day, $60, plus service charges for half day. Michael’s on East is located at 1212 East Ave. S, Sarasota, FL. For more information (941) 366-0007 or www. dineoriginal.com/forksandcorks.
Gasparilla 2015 EVENTS
Street Festival Curtis Hixon Park January 30 & 31
The captain of Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla and his band of marauding buccaneers celebrate their successful invasion with a Pirate Street Festival near Curtis Hixon Park. Includes pre and post parade music and a fireworks display from the river. 10:00 a.m. Free. Curtis Hixon Park is located at 600 N. Ashley Dr., Tampa, FL. For more information (813) 251-3378 or www.gasparillapiratefest.com.
Invasion Brunch Tampa Convention Center January 31
downtown waterfront to watch the spectacle as fullyrigged pirate ship Jose Gasparilla sails into the south end of Hillsborough Bay with hundreds of pirates aboard, cannons booming and a massive flotilla accompanying it. The ship docks at the Tampa Convention Center around 1:00 p.m., where the mayor will surrender the key to the city into the hands of the captain of Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla. Free. After their invasion, hundreds of pirates get down to the serious business of the day: tossing thousands of beads to hundreds of thousands of people who line the streets along Tampa’s waterfront. This parade brings more than 130 units, including colorful floats, marching bands and pirate krewes. It begins at Bay to Bay Boulevard and follows Bayshore Blvd. to Brorein St., Brorein, Ashley Dr. and ends at Cass St. The 2015 grand marshals are U.S. Army Command Sergeant Major James C. Faris and actor and TV show host Mario Lopez. The Glazer Children’s Museum will be closed all day because of limited parking and difficulty accessing the museum through the parade route. Price: Free. Reserved seating $45. For more information www.gasparillapiratefest.com. Pinellas Folk Festival
Heritage Village January 31
Dozens of the Tampa Bay area’s premier folk musicians will be playing traditional folk, gospel and country music on stages throughout Heritage Village. Participants can take part in a variety of historical demonstrations and activities. Free parking and a shuttle to the event entrance will be located on 119th St. between Ulmerton and Walsingham roads. A $5 donation is requested for adults and children older than 12. 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Heritage Village is located at 11909 125th St. North, Largo. For more information (727) 582-2123 or www.pinellascounty.org/heritage.2695.
Email Your
Senior Happenings to:
This is one of the prime viewing spots to see the GaspaLourdes@Seniorvoiceamerica.com rilla invasion unfold. Enjoy a breakfast buffet and entertainment as you await the arrival of the Jose Gasparilla. The Deadline for the When the ship docks, you’ll get a close-up view of the piFebruary Issue is January 15th rates as they arrive at the convention center dock. In addition to a breakfast smorgasbord, the brunch includes a cash bar with limited selections of beer and spirits. DISCOUNT PRESCRIPTION DRUGS 10:00 a.m. Price: $70$79.50. The Convention Ctr. is located at 333 S Franklin Two Locations - Apollo Beach and Sun City Center St., Tampa, FL. For more Viagra 100mg $4 & up (per pill) information (813) 251-3378 Cialis 20mg $4.50 & up (per pill) or www.gasparillapirateCymbalta 30mg #100 $146 fest.com. Celebrex 200mg #100 $160 Pirate Fest Invasion & Spiriva 18mg #90 $163
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Senior Voice America
JANUARY 2015
k l a T et’s
L
The Changing Face of Healthcare By Nurse Ruth Fanovich
Healthcare is ever-changing. Since the 1980s, when insurance companies and Medicare put in place stricter pay reimbursements, the business side of healthcare began to take precedence over patient care. We began seeing less of the RN at the bedside and in outpatient settings. Doctors began hiring ARNPs and physician’s assistants who could see patients for them. Some doctors opened several offices to expand their territories. More programs and titles emerged: med techs, patient care technicians and physician’s assistants, to name a few. With technological advances, we are further decreasing the need for hands on care. We are replacing nurses at the bedside and downsizing the medical staff, using machines and robots to replace humans and thereby cutting costs. I recently watched a presentation where offsite technicians monitored vital signs on intensive care patients via computers; this allows for fewer staff. Yes, the ever-changing face of healthcare. However, some areas are turning back the hands of time...Remember when the family doctor made house calls and actually saw you when you were admitted to the hospital? Remember when you were sick, and you could call and see the doctor the same day? Fortunately, some healthcare professionals want to get “back to the bedside,” offering a more personalized, quality medical care. I am seeing more and more ARNPs venture out and establish their own practice of hands-on care. There are also concierge doctors stepping up, who make their own hospital “rounds,” offer service after business hours, and can and will visit their patients in their homes. I recently met with two female physicians who make house calls. Yes, I said house calls! Instead of having to face the burden of going out for yet another doctor appointment, a chronically ill person can be seen in the comfort of his or her own home. The physicians call their practice Horizon Palliative Care Partners. Palliative medicine helps patients at ANY stage of a serious illness, regardless of life expectancy. They work alongside your primary care physician to improve your overall care, not take his or her place. Both are innovative and needed. It’s the new boutique medical practice. Many different kinds of diseases benefit from palliative medicine services, including cancer of any type, dementia, kidney or liver disease, stroke and Parkinson’s, just to name a few. They can help you understand your illness and help you establish goals for your care. They also focus on alleviating increasing symptoms that come along with illnesses (fatigue, pain, nausea, vomiting, anxiety, depression, etc.). With quality symptom management at home, their goal is to not only improve quality of life but to also reduce the time spent seeking care in the hospital setting. In this everchanging face of healthcare, it feels good to know there ARE options. If you’re looking for some, Let’s Talk! Provided by Ruth Fanovich, RN, LHRM, Owner, Care Placement Home Health Agency, Inc. and RMF Care Management, Inc. www.CarePlacementHH.com.
JANUARY 2015
Senior Voice America
Page 17
self help
Growing Older Growing older is not a disease or a condition. It’s a process that everyone has to go through, unless you die young, of course. So, you hot, young babe, who looks at me with disdain, wondering if I forgot to iron my neck this morning, just bear in mind that your neck will wrinkle and sag, just like mine. “Never,” you say, “I’ll go plastic.” Go ahead. Have one surgery or have 101, but sooner or later, your body will catch up with you, and you’ll be given a seat on the bus, or get an offer to have your groceries carried out to your car or be addressed as “ma’am:” all of which you’ll be grateful for, because you will have learned that aging is inevitable—and the preferred option. The golden years. Ah, if only they would increase in value, similar to the way that the price of gold has risen in the past several years. But the golden years seem tarnished at times, and I believe that’s often due to our level of expectations. What was adorable in infancy— diapers, for example—is far from adorable in old age, but let’s face it, folks: It can happen across the board, and we have to be grateful for what we avoid, bearing in mind that it all can be part of the process. The process, the process, the process. That doesn’t mean we have to succumb to a lesser ability to do things. As we discover in life to pick and choose our battles, so we must discover when we can push ourselves and when we must ask for help. I have pain in my body, so I can be crotchety and nasty, and besides, I am old, and old people are different from other people. No, no and no. You haven’t been paying attention. Old people are just babies with a hell of a lot of years added on. My cousin is 85, and she refuses to reveal her age. She claims to be 70, and no one doubts her. What does that mean? No one is rude enough to tell her that she looks old for 70, because she does. Why does it matter, anyway? Our society has conditioned us to cringe when we old folks mention our ages. We have to get past that. I live in a senior complex where no one can be under 55, but most are over 70, and, here, age is a badge of honor, especially if you’re 90 and still do the meringue or talk on the phone and drive, which further proves that age and wisdom don’t go hand in hand. Do I sometimes reflect back on what was and what I was? Absolutely. I’m human, and I admit to all the frailties therein. But I had an interesting moment last week. I had been to see my cardiologist—from 75 on, everyone has a cardiologist—and he expressed himself as pleased with my general condition. I stood later, waiting for the elevator, thinking that I could have another 20 years. As I stood there, pondering my future, a man bumped into me and then apologized. “It’s my fault,” I said, “I shouldn’t just be standing here, but I was trying to decide what I am going to do with the rest of my life.” I had never seen this man before, and I will probably never see him again, but he spent the next ten minutes with me, making suggestions as to what I might do. Oh my, oh my, there can be some delicious moments when they are least expected. I finally ignored my mother’s admonitions about not talking to strangers, and what fun! Wish I had broken more rules earlier in life. What rules have you broken lately? Consequences?
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Senior Voice America
JANUARY 2015
Entertainment news
Voices of Change: Eight War Babies Who Entertained America Born between 1939 and 1945, singer/songwriters, directors and actors from the “war baby” generation are largely responsible for reshaping American music and film after World War II. Here’s a look at 12 war baby entertainers and how elements of their childhoods were instrumental in shaping their careers. Do you find yourself stopping on “Taxi Driver” every time you run across it while channel flipping? Or shedding a tear each time you watch “The Godfather?” How about singing along to “Mrs. Robinson” when it’s on the radio, or adding tunes by Bob Dylan and Joan Baez to new playlists you create? If so, you owe a “thank you” to the war babies. Born between 1939 and 1945, the war babies are often overshadowed by the two generations that bookend them: the “greatest generation” and the baby boomers. And while boomers often take a lot of the credit for reshaping American culture in the second half of the 20th century, the war babies had by far the biggest impact on American postwar music and movies. In my book “War Babies,” I look closely at this distinctive generation, focusing on individuals who were instrumental in shaping the country’s culture and politics during the past half-century. Here, I explain how elements of American life influenced eight war baby entertainers as they were growing up in the 1940s and 1950s: Francis Ford Coppola was born in Detroit in 1939. As a child, Coppola contracted polio—the most dreaded disease of the first half of the 20th century. Confined to a bed, he created a puppet theater, a traditional form of Italian entertainment, one he reproduced in the early 20th century segment of “The Godfather: Part II.” The experience of polio also taught Coppola how to flourish alone, entertaining himself. Martin Scorsese was born in 1942 in Queens. As a boy, Scorsese (like Coppola) was ill; he had severe asthma and was unable to play sports or engage in other physically demanding activities. So Scorsese was isolated from other people, a lonesome introvert spending much of his childhood staring out the window of his house and later his apartment in Little Italy in Manhattan. As an adult, Scorsese’s movies captured the vibrancy and violence of the streets in Little Italy. Robert De Niro, whose background is both Italian and Irish, was born in New York in 1943 and grew up in Little Italy. As a young man, De Niro studied Method acting, which emphasized the need for an actor to draw on his or her own psychological resources and on memories and past experiences. It’s easy to see how De Niro’s upbringing in Little Italy prepared him for his Oscar-winning role as Vito Corleone in Coppola’s “The Godfather: Part II.” Faye Dunaway was born in 1941 in relatively impoverished conditions in Florida. She picked cotton as a child and had a difficult, painful relationship with her father, a career soldier who had affairs with other women. All of these experiences inspired in Dunaway an early ambition to flee from her feelings of childhood alienation, escape to the big city, and become a star. It was precisely these incipient influences that prepared her for the movie role of a lifetime in 1967, as Bonnie Parker in “Bonnie and Clyde,” another desperate, lonely young woman who hungers for fame. Bob Dylan wasn’t always Bob Dylan—he was born Robert Zimmerman in 1941 in Duluth, Minnesota. Like many war babies who became filmmakers or songwriters, Zimmerman came from a musical background; his father played violin. Zimmerman himself, even as a child, was taciturn, remote and secretive—qualities that would mark his persona as an adult. He devoted a good part of his youth to listening to blues and country music on the radio. By the late 1950s, as he embarked on his own singing career, Zimmerman renamed himself Bob Dylan in honor of one of his favorite writers, Dylan Thomas. Joan Baez was born in 1941 on Staten Island to a Mexican father and Scottish mother. Baez soon moved with her parents to Menlo Park, California, where her father studied at Stanford for a master’s degree in mathematics and taught military engineers during the war. But, despite his background in math and physics, he was a pacifist and refused to work on the atomic bomb at Los Alamos. His pacifism influenced his daughter, who became a lifelong pacifist herself. While growing up in California, Baez began experimenting with rhythm and blues on a ukulele. From childhood, she was also blessed with an exquisite singing voice—one she learned early to develop as a way of fitting in, as half-Mexican, with her white cohorts. Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel were both born in 1941 and grew up in Queens. Simon came from a family of professional musicians and loved to listen to his father perform in bands. When Simon was 11 years old, he became friends with a classmate, Art Garfunkel, who lived just three
By Richard Pells
JANUARY 2015
Senior Voice America
Page 19
blocks away. Garfunkel’s grandparents had migrated to America from Romania, so both he and Simon came from similar Jewish backgrounds and harbored similar musical ambitions, which Garfunkel’s parents (like Simon’s) encouraged. Once they discovered that they appreciated each other’s voices in harmony, they started to perform as a teenage duo in the 1950s in school and before audiences, even making a recording—all this before they emerged in the 1960s as two of the most poetic singers of the war baby generation. Of course, this is only a small sampling of war baby entertainers and artists who modernized music and film in America. The point is, members of this unique generation (which has been unfairly overshadowed by the boomers) were born, grew up and became adults during the most stressful and transformative years of the 20th century—and their responses to the crises they faced were ingenious. Using their own pasts, experiences and private struggles, they crafted a cultural revolution from which we’re still reaping the benefits today. About the Author: Richard Pells is the author of “War Babies: The Generation That Changed America.” He received his B.A. from Rutgers University in 1963 and his Ph.D. in history from Harvard in 1969, where he taught for three years. Subsequently, he was awarded fellowships from the Rockefeller Foundation, the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars, and the Guggenheim Foundation, as well as six Fulbright chairs and lectureships for teaching abroad, particularly in Europe and Asia. Currently, he is Professor of History Emeritus at The University of Texas at Austin. Pells is primarily interested in 20th century American culture—movies, radio, television, art, music, literature and the theater, all of which are reflected in his five books. Through his work, readers are treated to a history of American cultural life from the 1930s to the present. “War Babies” is a prime example of the concerns and issues that have shaped Pells’ career. To learn more, please visit www.richardpells.com. War Babies: The Generation That Changed America (Cultural History Press, 2014, ISBN: 978-0-99066980-7, $17.99, www.richardpells.com) is available at bookstores nationwide and all major online booksellers.
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Senior Voice America
JANUARY 2015
finances
New Year’s Resolutions That You Must Act Upon! The holidays are almost over, and the New Year is fast approaching, but, like so many years past, there are New Year’s resolutions that you must not put off. To ensure a safe and secure retirement future, the 5Ps (Pre-Planning Prevents Poor Performance) requires that you take action and not put it off! Resolutions to protect your family: Your family is of primary importance, and you must take action in order to protect their future. Make sure that you have adequate life insurance to protect your human life value in the event of untimely death. Also, protect your income stream in the event of a disability that prevents you from earning money to support your family’s financial needs: Purchase a disability insurance policy to replace any lost after-tax income. As we continue to see, health insurance is also a necessity to offset the rise of healthcare costs, which can bankrupt family assets. Lastly, long-term care is important as we age and may become unable to care for ourselves at home, and the cost of a long-term care facility that can care for us continues to rise. Create a will or a living trust to ensure that your assets pass to the family based on your wishes for distribution. A health care surrogate and a “Do Not Resuscitate” directive will ensure that your health wishes are followed. Resolutions to protect your business: If you are a business owner, there are similar actions to ensure that your business continues to operate. Life insurance is critical, because you are in control of the business that could cease to operate upon your death. If you have a partner, also have a buy-sell agreement in place, to ensure that you or your partner have the funds to keep the business operating in the event of the untimely death of you or your partner. The same is true of disability insurance: If the owner or partner is unable to work and manage the business, they still require a continued income to meet financial needs. Also, indicate what you want done with the business when you cease working. Do you want the business to continue, be sold or closed? Resolutions to protect your retirement: Your retirement assets need to be protected from loss to ensure a safe and adequate lifestyle in retirement. As we age, time begins to work against us, and we can no longer recover from major losses in our retirement investments. Protect the funds that you absolutely cannot afford to
By Jon Lynn
lose in guaranteed assets, such as CDs, Money Market funds or annuities. My clients prefer annuities over fixed-income options from banks that are currently paying less than inflation. Consider index annuities that offer higher potential gains that are protected from loss after the annual gains are realized. Also, continue to monitor your account statements, and work with your financial advisor to make changes if and when changes are needed. Resolutions to protect your estate: Have your estate valued by a CPA to determine what your estate taxes will be, and how those taxes will affect your estate’s net value. You can then implement an Irrevocable Life Insurance Trust, ILIT, to pay any estate taxes due and pass on your entire estate to your family. It is important to regularly review your estate assets to make sure that it is still up-to-date, due to any changes to the assets you have included in your estate plan. When assets are sold or changed, these changes must be reflected in your estate plan. As we all tend to procrastinate in taking the actions that we know we must do, just as we do with our New Year’s resolutions, inaction and lack of implementation can drastically and negatively affect our family lifestyle after we are gone. Good intentions are of no use, as we know where that road leads. If you love and care about your family, do not continue to hesitate. Act now!
Health, Wealth & Wisdom
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Tune in as Evan and Deb bring the experts that will enhance your everyday life and bring a smile to your face.
Monday - Friday from 7-9 pm on 1250am WHNZ radio We want to hear your Voice…Call-ins welcome!
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JANUARY 2015
Senior Voice America
Page 21
opinion
Egocentric Physicians Most physicians have been trained in a system that emphasized paternalism. It is a situation in which physicians, who occupy positions of authority, treat their patients as though they are children, who need to be told what to do, rather than adults who should be informed as to why they should do it. Because of their superior knowledge and skill, their overall opinion of what their patients think and feel has less relevance and value. Consistent with the Hippocratic oath physicians take upon graduation, they are supposed to take care of their patients by making the proper decisions for them. Because of the heavy patient load with which most doctors must cope, taking time to sit down with a patient and explain his or her diagnosis, treatment plan, and prognosis is not cost-effective. It is more expedient for them to simply tell the patient what to do, hand him or her a prescription and set a date for the next appointment. In 1847, the American Medical Association published this edict: “The obedience of a patient to the prescriptions of his physician should be prompt and implicit. He should never permit his own crude opinions as to their fitness to influence his actions to them. A failure in one particular may render an otherwise judicious treatment dangerous, and even fatal.” This edict illustrated a strictly paternalistic approach to patient management. In 1990, the AMA shifted ground and published another ruling: “Patients have the right to make decisions regarding the healthcare recommended by their physicians. Accordingly, patients may accept or refuse any recommended medical treatment.” This version featured autonomy as a more contemporary approach to healthcare. Another reason many physicians have inflated egos is because they have become accustomed to being treated as gods. In hospitals, they are the cocks of the walk. Nurses and assistants who blindly obey orders follow them around. Their egocentrism makes them resent being challenged. They feel threatened by patients who ask too many questions, and favor treating only patients who blindly do what they are told. For decades, psychologists have tried to better understand the role that ego plays in the healing arts. There is a consensus that it exerts a strong influence on how doctors and patients interact with one another. In medicine, this distinction is crucial. While a number of medical schools now offer a separate course in doctor-patient communication, only the surface of this pressing need has been scratched. This article should prompt you to ask, “Is my physician paternalistic or authoritarian?” Does he/she treat you like a child, expecting you to do as you are told, or does your doctor involve you in an intelligent discussion of your options? The second method has proven to be the more effective road to wellness. The contemporary practice of medicine has changed markedly since the days of the old-fashioned physician. Corporate medicine has transformed physicians into cogs in a mammoth therapeutic machine. Spending too much time with a patient is unacceptable. Physicians are urged to prescribe more expensive tests. Profit is the primary motive. Physicians caught up in this assembly line approach have become even more egocentric. Many find the corporate environment an excellent medium to further nurture their ego. It seems that being on the staff of large hospitals and clinics adds to their credibility. In order for physicians to become less egocentric and more altruistic, they should strive to embrace this axiom: “ Salus aegroti suprema lex,” or, “The welfare of the sick is the supreme law.” Since profit has become the holy grail in medicine, the playing field in healing has yet to be leveled.
By Professor Abné M. Eisenberg
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Senior Voice America
JANUARY 2015
around the home
New Garage Door Technology Makes Your Life Safer; Secure remote location, perhaps to grant access to a family member or allow a delivery. • Electronic eyes - New garage door openers come with safety sensors that prevent the door from closing if something were to be underneath. If an object breaks the beam of infrared light spanning the width of the door, the garage door won’t close - and if something were to cross the sensor as the door is closing, it would cause the door to reverse direction and open up again. This can help protect small children and pets from being struck by the closing door. • Timers for closing - You’ve probably forgotten to close your garage door after pulling out of the driveway at least once in your life, leaving your home and property wide open to anyone passing by. New garage door openers allow you to customize the settings on your garage door opener to ensure that the door will close after one minute, five minutes or even 10 minutes of being open. • Power out? Not a problem - The harsh winter weather can leave many homes without power for extended periods of time. LiftMaster openers are within the home. The majority of homeowners use the garage as the main entrance way into their equipped with battery backup, which is very useful during a power failure in homes, making the garage door and its opener imperative to the security of the severe weather conditions, providing your family with reliable, uninterrupted access to your home and automobiles in the garage. home, protecting the people and property behind it. Before, garage doors only opened and closed to let your car in and out of the ga- • Shed light on safety - Exterior lights also have seen technology upgrades and rage and you had to be there to do it. But garage doors and openers have improved when placed next to your garage, can deter unwanted visitors. Save money dramatically in the last decade to do more. If you’re interested in upgrading your with solar powered lights, or lights that are motion-activated to brightly home’s security and curb appeal, don’t forget to check out some of the newest high- shine when something approaches the garage. In addition to discouraging tech features: unwanted visitors, lights also give your family members a safer environment • Control from anywhere around the world: Garage door openers are high when arriving home after dark. tech now and the LiftMaster openers with MyQ Technology allow you to Using new technology in and around your garage helps you maintain security control your garage door - as well as other household items - from inside your house, while at the office or even from halfway across the world by using and safety and can improve your life in so many different ways. Learn more about your computer or smartphone. This technology lets you monitor if the garage how the LiftMaster garage door openers with MyQ Technology can benefit your door is opened or closed and allows you the freedom to operate it from a home and your family at www.LiftMaster.com. As the American home has continued to evolve with the speed of new technology, so has the garage. In order to keep up with the everyday busy lives of homeowners and the need for these homeowners to spread out and utilize all the space within their homes, garages have become a new frontier for functioning space
JANUARY 2015 get one too.’ So I went up to him—and I’m not making this up—when he looked at me, I thought, ‘Oh, I get it! I see why they like him so much.’ He had this special aura about him. I was just dumbstruck; I couldn’t say anything. He signed the photo, handed it to me, and said, ‘Here ya go, darling.’” Elvis’s leading lady in “The Trouble with Girls” came away with more than just an autograph. Marlyn Mason snagged an on-screen kiss. “It was a comedy kiss,” said Mason, indicating that the only fireworks were the real ones in the movie scene. She took an unusual approach to get the required reaction from Elvis. Just after the fireworks scene, Elvis came up behind her and started rubbing her shoulders. “I just turned around, off camera, and started undoing Elvis’s belt and trousers!” Mason said. “Well, I didn’t get very far, because it wasn’t a long scene. Elvis got this funny look on his face, which you can see in the film. He was great fun to work with, because I could throw anything at him, and he’d just throw it right back.” Mason also recalled a private moment when Elvis shared thoughts about his acting. “The saddest thing Elvis said to me was, ‘I’d like to make one good film, because I know people in this town laugh at me.’ I’ll never forget that,” Mason said. “But he was always down to earth and comfortable with himself. Some of that dialogue was so corny, but he managed to bring a realness to it. And I think that’s just how he was in real life. He was a natural comedian, and his timing was just impeccable. I just found him to be a very genuine person.” Despite his fame, Will Hutchins says Elvis didn’t play the celebrity, although he was usually accompanied on most of his films by pals – the so-called Memphis Mafia. “On the set, Elvis was like a host—a Southern gentleman—making sure everyone was having a good time,” said Hutchins, who first worked in “Spinout” (1966). The following year, he costarred with Elvis in “Clambake,” which featured a lot of ad-libbing and fooling around on the set. “It was, more or less, a de-facto stag party, because Elvis was getting married soon after the filming was finished,” Hutchins said. “Elvis and his buddies would set off firecrackers. It was pretty wild, but a lot of fun. For the director’s birthday, they had a From ELVIS Page 8
Top: Marlyn Mason and Elvis in “Trouble with Girls.” Right: Two scenes of Will Hutchins and Elvis in “Clambake.”
Senior Voice America cake and pushed it right in his face!” Wilda Taylor appeared in three Elvis Presley films, but strutted into Elvis movie history as exotic dancer Little Egypt in “Roustabout” (1964). “We rehearsed for about two weeks,” Taylor said. “Elvis was in and out of rehearsal hall every so often between his other busy filming days for the other scenes. He knew his material and music well, and I grew to admire him a great deal. It’s amazing, through the years, how many people know about me and Little Egypt from that film. Oddly enough, I really didn’t know much about Elvis before we worked together, but I found him to be a lovely, darling person, and I was just pleased to be a small part of his life.” With each passing decade since his death in 1977 at age 42, the Elvis legend and legacy continue to grow. When viewed in the context of the often zany ‘60s TV and film period, it is gratifying that there exists such an extensive film library of the most celebrated entertainer in history. Nick Thomas teaches at Auburn University in Montgomery, Ala., and has written features, columns and interviews for
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JANUARY 2015
Entertainment Dancing with the Prima Donnettes
Twelfth Night
Don Williams
FL Studio Thtr. Goldstein Cabaret January 6 - February 6
Shimberg Playhouse - Straz Ctr. January 8 - 11, 15 - 18, 22 - 25, 29 - February 1
Lakeland Ctr. - Youkey Theatre January 10
The musical examines the women’s movement through popular music, from dynamic ‘50s girl groups like The Chiffons and The Chordettes to empowering artists of the ‘70s such as Aretha Franklin and Cher. 6:00 p.m. Tickets: $18-$36. Vanessa Williams
Capitol Theatre January 5
One of the most respected and multi-faceted performers in the entertainment industry today, having sold over 25 million records worldwide, Vanessa is one of just a few artists to score #1 and Top 10 hits on Billboard’s Album and Singles charts in the combined areas of Pop, Dance, R&B, Adult Contemporary, Holiday, Latin, Gospel and Jazz. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $68.75 - $103.75. VIP Boxes available, contact for details. Hairspray
FL Studio Theatre - Gompertz January 7 - 11
In 1962 Baltimore, Tracy Turnblad, a big girl with big hair and an even bigger heart, has only one passion: to dance. She wins a spot on The Corny Collins Show and, overnight, is transformed from outsider to irrepressible teen celebrity. 8:00 p.m. Tickets: $18$49. TFO Coffee: Lights, Camera, Action
Mahaffey Theater January 8
Stuart Malina conducts this morning concert featuring select movements from Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 21, Williams’ Theme from Schindler’s List and Rachmaninoff’s Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini. Come early for pre-concert conversation with free coffee and doughnuts. 11:00 a.m. Tickets: $24-$42. The Beach Boys
Ruth Eckerd Hall January 7
Members of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and winners of the NARAS Lifetime Achievement Award for their classic songs that epitomize the spirit of the California lifestyle, they have become an American icon to a worldwide audience. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $40 - *$150 (*$150 Dinner Package includes a premium seat, pre-show dinner and a voucher for free valet parking. Valet service begins 15 minutes before pre-show dinner doors open.) The Beach Boys “Club Kokomo” VIP Event - $225.00 includes premium seats, meet and greet before the show, join the soundcheck, get exclusive re-mastered albums and a photograph with Mike Love & The Beach Boys. Limited availability. 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.
Jobsite Theater puts Shakespeare’s the hilarious tale of a girl disguising herself as a man to be near the count she adores, only to be pursued by the woman he loves, against the backdrop of Ybor City in 1926. Through Feb. 1. Tickets: $28, $14 rush for students/ seniors/military/Theatre Tampa Bay members; $14 previews (Jan. 8-9).
He is called the “the Gentle Giant of County Music” because of his unique blend of commanding presence and that laid-back, easy style which appeals to all audiences—cutting across national and genre boundaries. Don was the CMA Male Vocalist of the Year in 1978 and his “Tulsa Time” was the ACM Record of the Year for 1979. 8:20. Tickets $35 - $45.
St. Petersburg State Symphony
Cuff Me: 50 Shades of Grey
Van Wezel Perf. Arts Hall January 8
Capitol Theatre January 10
That’s the one in Russia, not in Florida. The symphony, formed in 1882, is celebrated as one of the greatest orchestras in the world and brings acclaimed conductor Vladimir Lande and superstar Xiayin Wang on piano. 8:00 p.m. Tickets: $20-$70. Alan Jackson
Univ. of S. Florida Sun Dome January 9
The country legend will come to Tampa during his 25th anniversary tour celebrating his robust catalog of hits from Drive to Gone Country, to Chattahoochie, to It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere, his jam with Jimmy Buffett. 7:00 p.m. Tickets: $25-$75. Univ. of S. F. Sun Dome is located at 4202 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa, FL. (813) 974-3004. Broadway Cabaret
Opera Central, Preis Hall January 9
The cast of upcoming The Barber of Seville takes a break from opera and perform favorite Broadway selections. The June cabaret was a sellout. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $75. (Includes dessert and beverage.) The Preis Hall is located at 2145 First Ave. S, St. Petersburg, FL. www.stpeteopera.org. Girls Night Out Comedy Show
Largo Cultural Center January 9
Stand up comedians Mary Tischbein, Catherine Maloney and Robin Savage combine forces to present one of the funniest Girls Night Out shows around. 8:00 p.m. Tickets: $24.50$39.50. Largo Cultural Center is located at 105 Central Park Drive, Largo, FL. Winter Jam
Amalie Arena January 10
Grammy-nominated, platinum selling Christian rockers Skillet will headline the 20th annual tour with Jeremy Camp, Francesca Battisetelli, Building 429, About A Mile, For King and Country, Family Force 5 and evangelist Tony Nolan. NewSong will host once again. 6:00 p.m. Tickets: $10 door only. For more information www.jamtour.com.
Cuff Me! The Fifty Shades of Grey Unauthorized Musical Parody! is the unauthorized hilarious parody of the Fifty Shades of Grey book phenomenon! Grab your girlfriends and get ready to laugh at this sexy, and hysterical romp that will have you dancing in the aisles as the cast of four belts out hilarious parodies of popular hit songs while spoofing the Fifty Shades of Grey book! Written by Bradford McMurran, Jeremiah Albers and Sean Michael Devereux of the improv group The Pushers. It was conceived by Tim Flaherty, who is also a contributing author along with Sonya Carter, who will direct. 5:00 p.m. & 8:00 p.m. Tickets: $39 - $49. Elvis Birthday Bash
Ruth Eckerd Hall January 11
Back by popular demand, the top two “Elvises” return with one phenomenal show! Scot Bruce as the young Elvis and Mike Albert as the Las Vegas Elvis, along with the Big “E” Band offer a rockin’ birthday party celebration of America’s first rock ‘n’ roll icon. 1:00 p.m. Tickets: $18 - $35. Peace Mem. Series: Piano Extravaganza
Peace Memorial Presb. Church January 11
The new season returns with a sixconcert series featuring a variety of performers and programs. A light reception will follow where you can meet the musicians. Featuring 2 pianos, 4 pianists, 8 hands, and 40 flying fingers, Rebecca Penneys and her former students who are now professional artists. $5-$10 donation. The Peace Memorial Church is located at 110 S Fort Harrison Ave., Clearwater, FL. The Fire and Rain Band
Largo Cultural Center January 12
“Sweet Baby James’ fans will believe its 1975 again with the James Taylor tribute. The Fire and Rain Band performs upbeat songs like “Your Smiling Face,’ “How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You),’ plus other mellow songs such as, “You’ve Got a Friend,’ and “Carolina in My Mind.” 2:00 p.m. Tickets: $24.50, $21.50 Group (10+). Largo Cultural Ctr. is located at 105 Central Park Drive, Largo, FL.
JANUARY 2015
Senior Voice America
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Entertainment Foreigner
Met. Opera Live in HD: The Merry Widow
ABBA - The Concert
Van Wezel Perf. Arts Hall January 12
Park Place Stadium 16 January 17
Ruth Eckerd Hall January 23
The band’s mix of blustery blues and pop continues to captivate generation after generation with enduring anthems including Juke Box Hero, Feels Like The First Time and Hot Blooded. 8:00 p.m. Tickets: $52-$74. St. Petersburg Opera: Figaro
The Music Gallery of Clearwater January 15, 16, 25
Figaro, Figaro, Figaro. Join Maestro Sforzini as he explores the title character in The Barber of Seville and previews pieces from this famous Rossini work. You’ll be singing, “Figaro! Figaro! Figaro!” too. Opera artistic director Mark Sforzini leads a program designed to enhance your understanding of opera and preview shows in the season. Program is repeated Friday mornings at 11:00 a.m. at St. Petersburg’s Museum of Fine Arts. Jan. 15, 6:00 p.m.; Jan. 16, 11:00 a.m.; Jan.25, 2:00 p.m. Tickets: $20, $15-$17 seniors/students. The Music Gallery is located at 5990 Ulmerton Road, Clearwater, FL. For more information (727) 530-3304 or www.stpeteopera.org. I Get a Kick: A Sinatra Cent. Celebration
Raymond James Theater January 16
Paul Wilborn and the Blue Roses pay tribute to Frank Sinatra turning 100 in 2015 in a cabaret show with songs and stories from his legendary career. You’ll enjoy Sinatra classics by Cole Porter, George Gershwin, Sammy Cahn, Jimmy Van Heusen, Johnny Mercer, Harold Arlen, Rodgers and Hart and more. 8:00 p.m. Tickets: $15 advance, $18 at the door. Grits and Glamour
Lakeland Center - Youkey Theatre January 16
From the road to the red carpet, on center stage or under the honky-tonk spotlight, Pam Tillis and Lorrie Morgan are a force to be reckoned with their high heels. Combined, these ladies have recorded 28 top 10 hits, sold more than 18 million records and recorded twelve number #1 songs, have gathered Grammys, CMA Awards, movie credits, television appearances, and starring Broadway roles! 7:30 p.m. Tickets $36 - $44.
The MET series features Lehar’s The Merry Widow. Renee Fleming stars as the beguiling femme fatale who captivates all Paris in Lehar’s enchanting operetta. Also being shown at Hyde Park Cinebistro in Tampa and Citrus Stadium 20 in Tampa. 12:55 p.m. Tickets: $25, $23 senior, $19 child (prices vary by theater). Park Pl. Stadium is located at 7200 U.S. 19 N, Pinellas Park, FL. TFO: Tchaikovsky’s Violin
Ruth Eckerd Hall January 18
Tito Muñoz, guest conductor, Jennifer Koh, violin. Performance opens with A. Schoenberg: Canto, followed by Tchaikovsky: Violin Concerto and Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 4. Armed with flare and panache, Jennifer Koh promises to set afire Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto, followed by his beloved favorite, Symphony No. 4. 7:30 p.m. Tickets $17.50 - $47.50. Barbara And Frank
Ruth Eckerd Hall January 19
The 2014-15 season includes returning favorites the Blue Suede Shoes and the Glenn Miller Orchestra, with some new additions to the music series including The Bronx Wanderers. 1:00 p.m. Tickets: $18$25 single tickets; $180 12-show package. The Book of Mormon
Carol Morsani Hall - Straz Center January 20 - February 1
The hit musical comedy about two 19-year-old missionaries dispatched from Utah to Uganda from the creators of South Park returns by popular demand. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $38.50-$163.50. Michael Bolton
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall January 21
The multiple Grammy-Award winning singer/songwriter who has recorded and performed with a variety of musical icons including, Luciano Pavarotti, Placido Domingo, Jose Carreras, Bob Dylan, Lady Gaga and more, will return to the historic stage. 8:00 p.m. Tickets: $74-$94.
The concept, originally created in collaboration with Swedish company Viva Arts, combines the best ABBA tribute groups with members of the original ABBA band dazzling audience members with fantastic performances while playing the most iconic hits from ABBA. Audiences and press agree: “this is the closest to ABBA you’ll ever get.” 8:00 p.m. Tickets are priced at $35 - *$125 (*$125 Dinner Package includes a premium seat, pre-show dinner and a voucher for free valet parking. Valet service begins 15 minutes before pre-show dinner doors open.) 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. Puccini’s La Boheme
Ruth Eckerd Hall January 23 A poet living in Paris with artist friends falls for a fragile seamstress in failing health as Teatro Lirico D’Europa performs one of the world’s favorite operas in Italian with English supertitles. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $35-$75. TFO Masterworks: Romeo and Juliet
Straz Center for the Perf. Arts January 23 - 25 Under the direction of guest conductor Gerard Schwarz, the orchestra presents Barber’s Mutations from Bach for Brass and Timpani and Copland’s Piano Concerto. 8:00 p.m. Tickets: $15-$45. Martina McBride
Ruth Eckerd Hall January 24 Backed by an 11-piece band, Martina’s live show brings the iconic sounds of the ‘50s and ‘60s from her ‘Everlasting’ album alive. The four-time CMA Female Vocalist of the Year puts her own spin on some of her favorite R&B and soul classics. 8:00 p.m. Tickets are priced at $45 - *$135 (*$135 Dinner Package includes a premium seat, pre-show dinner and a voucher for free valet parking. Valet service begins 15 minutes before pre-show dinner doors open.)
VENUE ADDRESSES AND CONTACT INFORMATION FL Studio Theatre 1241 North Palm Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236 (941) 366-9000 www.floridastudiotheatre.org Midflorida Credit Union Amphitheatre 4802 N. US Highway 301 Tampa, FL 33610 Telephone: (813) 740-2446. www.midflorida.com/amphitheatre 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 Straz Center — 1010 North Macinnes Place, Tampa, FL 33602. Telephone: (813) 229-7827. www.strazcenter.org Amelie Arena 401 Channelside Dr. Tampa, FL 33602. Telephone: (813) 301-6500. www.ameliearena.com American Stage Theatre 163 3rd Street North St. Petersburg, FL 33701 Telephone: (727)823-7529 www.americanstage.org Van Wezel Perf. Arts Hall 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236 (941) 953-3368 www.vanwezel.org
When It Comes to Entertaining Get out from behind your mask and list your Event for Free right 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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Senior Voice America
JANUARY 2015
Senior to Senior Woman Seeking Man S W F NS ND looking for M NS 58-65, likes to walk, flea markets, dining, relaxing at home. Only sincere reply, I’m 55+, 5’3”, 125 lbs., LTR. Feel free to leave a message. Pasco County (813) 782-7174. All I want for Christmas is a companion/friend around my age. I’m 78, W WD NS sincere, clean, good cook. Largo/Clearwater area. Lets talk (727) 565-5455. Christian lady ISO C S M 65+, 5’7”+, for LTR to enjoy life at church, beach, dance, travel and cruises. Let’s meet and see. Largo (727) 247-9253. W F ND NS looking for a nice gentleman, likes to walk, see movies, dining, sitting down and talking, and dancing as well. Tampa (813) 231-0122. S W F NS ND looking for clean, well groomed gent, 70-85, good health, dancer, traveler, good shape, good SOH. I’m all the above except a gent. Port Richey (727) 869-7210. S WD W F Brunette hair, weight 112 lbs., 83, looking for a special W M ND NS 82-84. St. Petersburg (727) 578-4018. Blonde, 5’7”, 130 lbs., white, like flea markets, real estate investments, hamburgers, ice cream, walks. Open to relocating. Call, lets chat. St. Pete (727) 773-7188.
man Seeking WOMan Avid outdoorsman sought by naturist gal for even more adventures as loving LTR pair: rv-ing, camping, Harley-ing, kayaking, au-natural. Each: healthy, 60’s, tall, solvent, freethinkers. No wannabes, plz. worktrvlfun@juno. com +photo. One woman man. S W M 6’, 178 lbs., NS, likes fishing, baseball ISO S W F, 60 & under, NS SOH. Please no players. Largo (727) 580-5848. WD W M C 5’4”, 164 lbs. ISO lady to share mobile home. Clearwater US 19N, free rent, utilities, cable, internet, for companionship and mutual help. Clearwater (727) 223-9064. S W/latin M 71 years old, C NS ND SOH ISO LTR, with latin, oriental or W F. I like almost everything. Please call evenings, Tampa (813) 833-3211.
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
ter, must be slim, LTR SD walks on beach. Treasure Island (727) 827-2059. M 65, looking for slim lady, 50-70. I’m a nice person. Call (727) 938-6990. Very young, 71, 5’9”, 160 lbs., looking for female who believes character matters more than anything. NS, SD, would like written correspondence first. Tarpon Springs (407) 393-8199. Business owner, 60s, seeks blue eyed, slender blonde, 45-55 yrs of age, empty nester who likes dining out, movies, reading, travel. Seeking LTR and holding tight. Sarasota (617) 512-6572.
Meet that Someone Special with a FREE listing in Senior to Senior S W M 61, retired 5’9”, 175 lbs. NS ND looking for LTR. I like nature, walks, bicycling. ISO woman to be there for each other. New Port Richey(727) 484-6613. S W M 5’8” 130 lbs. Hi lapis, its me again. Have not found right one, looking for sexy lady, any race, age 30-55. Tampa (813) 735-3943. S W M NS SD 5’6”, 185 lbs., SOH ISO retired W F or Asian F for fun, daytime adventures, American legion, togetherness, shopping, TV, dining. A little crazy like me, Tyrone mall area, St. Petersburg (727) 545-4148. Handsome, sexy W M ISO B F, love goddess for daytime interracial dates. Age and marital status open. Tampa (813) 277-8748. D ND H M ISO LTR. I’m 5’10’, 200 lbs., 57, into classic rock, spiritual, shy, tired of being alone, enjoy hanging out and will try new things. Age unimportant, passionate one woman man. Smoker ok. St. Petersburg (813) 606-3011. Retired marine, 66 year old, W. Race doesn’t mat-
friend Seeking friend W M 68, like friend about the same, likes bike riding and more. PO BOX 8883, Lakeland, FL 33806. 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. Pete (727) 642-4229. Looking for friend then more. I like swimming, jet skis, kissing, hugging, dancing, listening to music, eating out, the beach and walks. Tampa (813) 260-6467. Hello I’m M, in good shape that likes to have fun, ISO W/M in shape, 40-60. Please be discreet. Tarpon Springs (727) 550-7928. F NS SD SOH 5’8”, 70 years old, animal lover, esp. cats, old movies and music, water gardens, seeks friend maybe with view to share large home, near golfing — watch out for each other.
Senior to Senior™ Mail to: Senior Voice America
P.O. BOX 1379, Lutz, FL 33548-1379 Email: sr2sr@seniorvoiceamerica.com Fax: (813) 422-7966
Senior to Senior is sponsored by
EMAIL: sr2sr@seniorvoiceamerica.com
JANUARY 2015
Senior Voice America
From LIEN Page 1 in the home, and who has resided in the home at least one year prior to any admission of the recipient homeowner to a medical institution; or (e) an adult child who is living continuously in the home since the recipient’s death and has lived in the home at least two years prior to any admission of the recipient homeowner to a medical institution and who can prove he/she provided care that delayed the need for such admission. In the case of (a), (b), and (c) above, however, Medicaid can execute on a lien later; as to (a), when the surviving spouse dies; as to (b), when the child dies or moves out of the home; and as to (c), if the surviving child recovers, or in some states, when the child dies or moves out of the home. Medicaid may also execute on a lien in the case of (e), if the adult child dies or ceases to live in the home. There is no reliable way to preserve the home from a Medicaid lien unless the owner gifts away or sells away all interest in the home at least five years (the “Medicaid lookback period”) before accepting benefits. When an owner gives away the home, the gift can be made outright via recording a quitclaim deed, or by putting the home into an irrevocable trust for the benefit of some beneficiary other than the donor, or, possibly, by other means, but, no matter how the gift is made, the owner cannot retain any interest. For instance, the owner cannot avoid the lookback period by giving away the home while recording a retained life estate (right to occupy the home until death). Gifting the home for the purpose of avoiding a Medicaid lien has several pitfalls. For instance, it may delay the senior in applying for Medicaid benefits he or she needs. Also, the donee that accepts ownership of the home may promise to care for the senior in the home but may fail in that obligation. Any balance on a mortgage on the home at the time of gifting may become due in full. The owner’s Medicaid recipient status may make it impossible to obtain a reverse mortgage, since mortgage companies are aware that a Medicaid lien has primacy over any outstanding mortgage obligation owed to a private lender when the owner dies. And, depending on the senior’s overall financial circumstances at the time of the gift and at death, the gift may subject the senior to state gift taxes, as well as to state and federal income taxes, and may subject the senior’s estate to federal gift taxes and to state and federal death taxes. It can be a better alternative for the senior who may need Medicaid assistance in five years or more to sell his or her home and use the proceeds to move into rental accommodations. Of course, this defeats the interest many seniors have in preserving the family home for surviving relatives. As is well known, Medicaid also imposes stringent restrictions on both the income and the assets of the recipient and, as well, the income and assets of the recipient’s spouse (“Rule of Spousal Impoverishment”). People in their forties and fifties contemplating eventual retirement, and who can afford the premiums, may do well to consider purchasing long-term care insurance as an alternative to relying on Medicaid. Joyce Holly is a retired attorney and the author of “Ten Stupid Things Aging Americans Do to Mess Up Their Lives and Financial Situation.” She is also the author of the novel, “An Inconvenient Old Woman.” Holly’s books are available for purchase on Amazon.com.
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great food in tampa bay 5901 Sun Boulevard St. Petersburg, FL 33715
(727) 867-8000 At Boardwalk Pasta & Seafood in St. Petersburg, you can be sure of enjoying fabulous food at fantastic prices. More than just pasta and seafood, you are sure to enjoy our family-friendly atmosphere and live entertainment too!
Senior Special: Mon. – Wed. from 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. - Choose one entrée from Beef-Chicken-Pasta & or a Fish dish. All meals include entrée, salad, a side and a non-alcoholic beverage for $8.00. Located in the Isla Del Sol Shopping Center, behind Regions Bank at Sun Blvd. & Pinellas Bayway. www.boardwalkpastaandseafood.com
The Art of Fine Italian Cuisine 232 N. Dale Mabry Hwy • Tampa, FL 33609
813.875.6660
www.donatellorestaurant.com
Tampa’s Authentic Italian Restaurant since 1984
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Senior Voice America
JANUARY 2015