SEPTEMBER 2015
TM
SINCE 1980 — VolUME 35 • NUMBER 9
AGING IN Original Medicare vs. a Medicare Advantage Plan
When a person is turning 65, they need to decide
By Karyn Rizzo whether they want to go on Original Medicare or a
the importance of jewish history
PAGe 5 RIVIERA MAYA: MAGNIFICENT, MAGICAL & MEMORABLE
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Medicare Advantage Plan. They are usually barraged by insurance companies’ marketing collaterals and invitations to join them for meetings, lunches, dinners, etc. Medicare is a federal health insurance program for eligible individuals. It has no spousal / dependent coverage and does not cover long-term custodial care. It’s administered by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). You must be a U.S. citizen or legal, permanent resident of the U.S. for at least 5 continuous years prior to enrollment. You must be at least 65 years old or, if under 65, have been receiving Social Security disability income for at least 24 months, or have End State Renal Disease (ESRD) or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), known as “Lou Gehrig’s Disease.” The decision to have Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage Plan is a business decision. There are essential factors that need to be carefully considered when making this decision. First, let’s understand how Medicare works.
ORIGINAL MEDICARE COSTS Part A 2015 Premium: Free for most (need 40 work credits) 2015 Hospital Deductible $1260.00 Part B 2015 Premium Cost: $104.90 2015 Annual Deductible: $147.00 High Earners Part B Premiums Single Earners ($85000 - $107,000) $146.90 Single Earners (over $214,000) $335.70 See MEDICARE, Page 23
k l a T et’s
L INTERGENERATIONAL MEDDLING
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Are You Ready?
By Nurse Ruth Fanovich
Ready for what? To evacuate, that’s what! We live in Florida, and, as we all know, it does rain (and rain and rain). We sometime think we won’t be the ones that will be affected by troublesome conditions caused by rain, such as flooding; we don’t think we are the ones that will ever have to evacuate. Well, I think (hope) the recent, unprecedented weather conditions and flooding might have changed the minds of many. Get prepared, have a plan, and then, when it is raining, things will look a little bit brighter. Don’t wait until the last minute to ask yourself, “What should I do?” It may be too late, as many people found out this past week. If you should need to evacuate, first and foremost, you must have a destination. Could you stay with family or friends who live outside of your area? Go ahead and ask them now whether staying with them is an option. If not, do you need to look at motels, hotels or shelters? Think about what you would need to sustain yourself and your family, and please don’t forget to include your pets. Will you have cash on hand? You See FLOODS, Page 8 may ask, “Why cash?” Well, when floodwaters
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
SEPTEMBER 2015
Health Roundup
Nothing New Under the Sun By Dr. Anthony J. Adams We talk about dental implants as if they are something new. They are not. In 1931, a mandible fragment of Mayan origin was excavated in the Ulua Valley in Honduras. Within that fragment were embedded three carved shell teeth, apparently functional. They were carbon dated to 600 A.D. As early as 300 B.C., Etruscans were banding loose teeth with gold bands and rivets. Egyptian archaeologists have found loose teeth bound together with gold wires from 3000 - 2500 B.C. These early techniques are not too different than what is done today, but the materials have changed. Of even greater interest was the Egyptian belief that the body must be kept intact to house the soul in the afterworld, so such measures had much value. Today we know a mouth not intact will take you into the afterworld earlier than need be. Today we know the health of the body and mouth are very much entwined. At Healthy Body Dental, preservation or restoration of health is our
mission. It is rare to see a middle-aged person with a truly healthy mouth. 75 percent of American adults have oral inflammation in the form of gum disease. A person with oral inflammation is 27 times more likely to have a heart attack. 85 percent of people with heart attacks have oral inflammation. Inflammation, infection, tooth loss and loss of function make it impossible to have total-body health, function or longevity. A bad mouth will take you into the afterworld through the expression of other total-body diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer and others. Call Healthy Body Dental to schedule a complimentary exam and necessary X-rays. We can assess and inform you of oral conditions which may rob you of a long, healthy and vibrant life. We practice both traditional and alternative dentistry in a safe and comfortable atmosphere you will appreciate. Dr. Anthony J. Adams Healthy Body Dental 25877 US Highway 19 N Cypress Point Center Clearwater, FL 33763 (727) 799-3123 or www.healthybodydental.com
SEPTEMBER 2015
Senior Voice America
Health Roundup
Tips for Coping with Hemorrhoids If you suffer from hemorrhoids, you already know that this can be an uncomfortable and painful condition. It can be difficult to talk about, even with your doctor. However, keep in mind that hemorrhoids are actually common, affecting millions of Americans nationwide. Hemorrhoids may be caused by constipation, diarrhea, straining while going to the bathroom and even increased vein pressure or hormone changes during pregnancy. However, there are steps you can take to alleviate the problem or even avoid it. To help prevent hemorrhoids, which are enlarged blood vessels around the anus, located either externally or internally, and to relieve the associated pain, itching and discomfort, learning more can help. Here is what you should know: • • • •
Tailor your diet: A high-fiber diet is beneficial to your digestive system and can promote regular bowel movements. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables and legumes in your daily diet. Also, be sure to drink plenty of water and fluids. This will help your body process the added fiber. Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight in your abdomen can increase your chances of developing hemorrhoids. Take your time: Straining in the bathroom can increase pressure on rectal veins. So don’t rush. However, when you are done, get off the toilet and finish that magazine article another time. Sitting on the toilet longer than necessary can aggravate your condition. Get relief: Whether you’re at home or on the go, hemorrhoids may make life painful. Fortunately, there are over-the-counter treatments that can provide relief. But you probably won’t want to advertise your condition. If you’ve ever had your bag unpacked by TSA agents at the airport or sought relief in a crowded public restroom, you’ll know that understated and portable are the name of the game.
Check out a new discreet option! RectiCare Medicated Anorectal Wipes are recommended by colon and rectal surgeons nationwide. Containing the highest
non-prescription lidocaine strength available, the wipes form a protective coating over inflamed tissues to relieve pain, itching and discomfort of hemorrhoids and other anorectal disorders, while also temporarily protecting irritated and inflamed perianal skin. For more information, visit www.recticare.com. Don’t suffer in silence and don’t be embarrassed. Not only is your condition more common than you think, but taking steps to manage anal pain and discomfort can be easy and discreet.
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Senior Voice America
SEPTEMBER 2015
FROM THE PUBLISHER
TM TM
Senior Voice America, Inc. P.O. BOX 1379 Lutz, FL 33548-1379 Phone (813) 444-1011 • Fax (813) 422-7966 www.seniorvoiceamerica.com Staff Publisher: Evan Gold evan@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
The Trump Effect
Do you remember the 80’s when there was a groundswell of desire for Lee Iacocca to run for President? And then there was tremendous interest in Ross Perot. And today there is Donald Trump, Carly Fiorina and even Dr. Ben Carson. It seems that there is a desire of Americans to look beyond the politicians. To stop the political double speak and the endless circular conversations. There are millions of Americans who are desirous of straight talk. Think about why Barack Obama became President Obama. He portrayed himself an outsider. Someone who would bring sanity and change to the Beltway and give Americans what they wanted. Six plus years later we find him to be no different than the politicians who preceded him. Today more than ever, with the wolves at the gate, our country is at a pivotal point. I believe that is why Donald Trump and others are resonating with Americans. They are not giving us that political jargon. Whether we like or agree with the straight talk they are giving it to us. What we are seeing is probably what we will get. Whether you agree with what they say or not maybe it is time we consider really choosing from outside political circles. The politicians are the ones who keep getting us into these messes. It is the politicians who end up cleaning up financially when they leave or even are thrown out of office. And finally it is the politicians who we never really get a straight answer from. Those millionaires (you would be amazed at the net worth of our legislators) who sit in congress until they die or finally are found out to be ineffective. Look, I am not telling you that you should definitely vote for the outsiders, but I can tell you that if the press, current politicians and the “powers that be” are against all of them, maybe we need to ask why and take a harder look.
Evan Gold
ADVERTISING (813) 444-1011 Join our sales team. For information about opportunities throughout Florida and North America, email evan@seniorvoiceamerica.com.
Contributors Abne M. Eisenberg • Garrett Matthews Carolyn Shockey • Steve & Jeanne Wolfen Ruth Fanovich • Dr. Anthony Adams Jean Mlincek • Karyn Rizzo • Joyce Holly Mary Gynn • Lourdes M. Sáenz 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 EDITOR Every September, I remember my great-aunt Josie. I remember her up to her elbows in flour, loaves of fresh-baked bread mounted higher than my four-year-old head. And I see untouched Kansas farmland like it would have been the first time she laid eyes on her new home. This poem is for her. I Go Back to Kansas When I pin my hair up just so and tilt my chin winningly to the side the mirror silvers up an echo of Josie Old-Country nose built baker- big (enough to stoke the fire just so at the right moment and later to smell harvest coming up gold) On the boat bakers became farmers, moving West to let long rows of milo, soybeans, wheat and even peonies ruddy their Czech cheeks just so at the same time the Depression sucked up whole cities So I don’t resent the softness of my chin or the stronghold of my nose or the strength of my forearms writing this poem. I own the width of my working shoulders and the gnarled knuckle bones putting in bobby pins. This chin welcomed friends and this nose grew into new bronze under an adopted sun. These forearms fed strangers-in-a-strange-land children bread and these shoulders tamed the land— the land here. “Just so,” she said once “just so.” And I know these bones worked the Earth until wheat like heavy golden bodies stretched for miles.
Lauren Potts
SEPTEMBER 2015
Senior Voice America
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OPINION
The Importance of Jewish History By Professor Abné Eisenberg What might the world be like today if, by magic, there was never anything called Judaism and, as a result, no Jews? The Old Testament tells us of a man named Abraham who is said to have lived in a place called Ur a little more than 2,000 years ago. Legend has it that a voice told him, “Go ahead to this land, walk along this route, and trust what you will find.” Scripture describes him as the Father of the Faith, of Judaism, Christianity and Islam. What impact has this story of Abraham had on other world religions? How would the Old Testament read without an Abraham? Moses led the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt in the 13th century B.C. and gave us the Ten Commandments. What would the world be like today if Moses never gave us the Ten Commandments? Someone named Jesus of Nazareth, (in Hebrew, Yeshua ben Joseph) entered upon the historical scene. His pilgrimage and ultimate crucifixion gave birth to Christianity. How would the New Testament read without a Jew named Jesus? The diaspora of Jews outside of Israel from the 6th century B.C., when they were exiled to Babylonia, continued up to the present time. Jews could be found in practically every country. Because Judaism stressed the importance of learning, it produced some of the most influential people throughout recorded history. The list of Jews who made a difference is staggering. In medicine, Karl Landsteiner gave us the ability to establish blood groups, Paul Ehrlick gave us chemotherapy, Lynn Margulis gave us the theory of symbiosis, Sigmund Freud put forward psychoanalysis, and Jonas Salk gave us a cure for polio. Hans Bethe described the energy of the Sun, Albert Einstein explored relativity, Edward Teller and J. Robert Oppenheimer had an understanding of atomic energy, Claude Levi-Strauss explored structural anthropology, and Richard Feynman explored quantum electrodynamics. The world would be a very drab place without music. The following Jews gave us a diverse collection of musical representations. In theater, there were Jewish composers such as Jerome Kern, Sigmund Romberg, Irving Berlin, George Gershwin, Richard Rodgers, Lorenz Hart, Oscar Hammerstein, Leonard Bernstein and David Belasco. Playwrights included Arthur Miller, George S. Kaufman, Neil Simon and Paddy Chavesky. Style-setters such as Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, Kenneth Cole and Levi Strauss were instrumental in shaping the world of fashion. Comedy gave us Fanny Brice, Al Jolson, Eddie Cantor, Milton Berle. Woody Allen and Jerry Seinfeld. In art, one cannot avoid names such as Marc Chagall, Frida Kahlo, Modigliani and Camille Pissarro. See HISTORY, Page 8 The film industry changed the face of the civilized world. Jewish pioneers Sam Goldwyn and Louis B. Mayer made it possible for millions
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Senior Voice America
SEPTEMBER 2015
project sugar
Teaching for Health Series (Vol. 1 No.7)
The Diabetic Foot — Take-Home Messages
“Diabetic neuropathy of the feet is not a single entity. It encompasses a variety of clinical
By Mary Gynn, RN, BSN, manifestations, the most common being pain, foot ulcers, and neuropathic unsteadiness,” said Dr. MSN/MS, Diabetes Educator Loretta Vileikyte, visiting associate professor at the University of Miami in Coral Gables, Fla.
Vileikyte and associates also attribute increased risk for depression to the nerve pain. Additionally, they claim that unsteadiness is a very important factor to be discussed with patients. This symptom is often neglected because patients rarely attribute unsteadiness to diabetes or neuropathy. Studies show that unsteadiness can be managed with gait training. In some instances, clinicians often fail to adequately explain the cause of neuropathic pain to patients and the connection to unsteadiness. Preventive self-care education can be associated with a decrease in developing foot ulcers and should be initiated early in the diagnosis of diabetes. Diabetes educators, in their self-management programs, need to include a demonstration to diabetics how to inspect their own feet daily, apply moisturizer to avoid dryness (not between toes as that area needs to stay dry), wear proper shoes, and understand that foot ulcers may be due to ineffective foot care. Diabetics do not understand that neuropathy (loss of sensation) may be causing or can cause their foot problems. Educational interventions do help patients understand their diabetes risk factors and how they can help themselves. It’s not enough for physicians to test for neuropathy. They must explain, in an understandable way, that neuropathy and other complications can be caused by diabetes. This can help teach diabetics about self-management at home. Also, referring to a diabetes educator is essential. Gradually, a team effort should be established to reduce or avoid the insidious development of diabetes complications, which can be painful and costly, and oftentimes result in unnecessary hospitalization. Foot care is an important quality of life issue, especially for older adults, as they need to maintain Dr. Bonnie Sanchez, ABPM Dr. Narmo Ortiz, FACFAS, CWS ambulatory ability. Factors that contribute to diabetic foot problems include: • Degree of walking or lack thereof, • Time spent in a hospital, • Lack of prior foot care and management, FOOT PAIN RELIEF WITH A GENTLE TOUCH BY BOARD CERTIFIED FOOT SPECIALIST! • Environment, • Joint deformities, Our expert Podiatrists quickly and effectively help you with your foot pain; FOOT, ANKLE, TOE AND TOENAIL • Leg and ankle edema, Now Featuring: Prosthetic Nails - making ugly nails beautiful in one treatment. • Current medications, and • Chronic disease. Offering you and your loved ones: Diabetic Foot Exams, Custom Orthotics, Braces and not so ugly Orthopedic Shoes. If you experience, Joint problems: Ankle Sprains, Bunions, Assessing patients’ lower extremities includes looking for swelling and painful feet, toenails, bunCrooked Bent Toes, Arthritis or Gout, we can help you. If you have skin or nail problems: Athlete’s Foot, Thick, Ugly or Discolored Nails, Dry Cracked Heels or Warts or other ions, infections, coldness and hammertoes, in particular in patients with vascular disease and a past history ugly spots, we can help you. Achilles’ Tendon, Heel, Arch or Ball of your foot Pain; we of disease. Previous amputation clearly indicates a major problem. can help you. Burning, Numbness or Tingling, we can help minimize your awful symp In sum, patient education is extremely important because of the numerous tasks involved in managtoms. Walking Problems; Unsteady Gait or Balance, please call us so, we can help you! ing diabetes. Diabetes educators have a responsibility to provide patients with information and help them determine how to use that information in their daily lives – to make well-informed decisions about how to With any problem we get you out of pain as soon as possible handle different situations that might arise. To be effective, diabetes educators must understand the values and then work on the root of your problem! and priorities of the lives of individuals with diabetes. While visits to the doctor are required, almost all diaFor Quick Effective Relief of Your Foot Pain — CALL NOW! betes care happens at home, at work and in the community. (813) 337-6551 Hillsborough • (727) 565-2711 Pinellas Mary Gynn, RN, MSN/MS, MPH, Diabetes educator is a member of AADE, FNA and APHA. She fawww.FitFeetFlorida.com cilitates diabetes workshops and diabetes education presentations. Visit www.teachingforhealth.com or contact her at (847) 533-1197, or at info@teachingforhealth.com.
STOP YOUR FOOT PAIN!
SEPTEMBER 2015
Senior Voice America
in your home
Why You Should Adopt a Dog Dogs make a house a home; there is no doubt about it. If you have ever thought about including a dog in your family, here are several reasons to consider moving ahead on adoption.
Health Benefits Between walks in the morning, walks in the evening and daily play time, dogs get everyone in the family active and moving each day—an important part of a healthy lifestyle. Dogs may have pervasive positive effects on human health, according to the National Institutes of Health, which reports that groups of new pet owners showed a significant reduction in minor health problems compared to those without pets. Other studies have shown that spending time with animals can reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Why Adopt? Between 6 and 8 million homeless pets enter shelters every year. Because shelters cannot handle all the dogs that need a place to live, many that don’t get adopted are euthanized. Adopting a dog is a conscientious decision to make, because it means you are saving a life. Furthermore, animals in shelters receive medical care during their stay. As an adopter, you can be better informed about the state of your new pet’s health, as shelters keep great records on vaccinations and other treatments. Lastly, adopting a pet is a much more affordable route to dog ownership than buying a dog from a breeder or store.
Where to Adopt
Dog adoption events are an excel-
lent way to meet lots of potential pets at once, helping you find a dog whose temperament would be a good fit for your home and family. Thankfully, many groups are helping to make such events happen. For example, Coldwell Banker Real Estate is teaming up with Adopt-a-Pet.com to organize the Homes for Dogs National Pet Adoption Weekend on Aug. 1-2, 2015. This nationwide event builds on the success of the “Homes for Dogs Project,” a national campaign hosted by Coldwell Banker and Adopt-a-Pet.com, which aims to find homes for 20,000 adoptable dogs in 2015. “It’s shocking to think of how many homeless dogs enter shelters each year,” said Sean Blankenship, chief marketing officer for Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. “That’s why we launched this program; between our 86,000 sales associates and the 15,000 Adopt-a-Pet.com shelters and rescues, we’re hoping that we can truly make a difference.” The Homes for Dogs National Pet Adoption Weekend is expected to be one of the largest adoption events of the year. A list of pet adoption events is available at www.adoptapet.com/ homesfordogs. To add laughter and love to your life, consider sharing it with a dog in need
Some Adoption Centers Near You Tampa - Baileys Way Rescue, Inc 440 Falkenberg Road, Tampa FL 33619 Adoption hours: Saturday 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Manatee County Animal Services One Haben Blvd., Palmetto FL 34221 Adoption hours: Saturday 11:00 am - 4:00 pm Sunday: 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm Forget Me Not, Inc 4404 E.. State Road 64, Bradenton FL 34208 Adoption hours: Saturday 11:00 am - 5:00 pm Sunday: 11:00 am - 5:00 pm TLC PetSnip (Community Outreach) Zelda’s K9 Rescue 1701 E. Gary Rd., Lakeland Fl 33801 Adoption hours: Saturday 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
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Senior Voice America
SEPTEMBER 2015
From HISTORY, Page 5
to experience every human emotion and live vicariously by watching moving and talking pictures. Jewish actors and actresses who have won Oscars for their outstanding and memorable work in film include Paul Mini, Rod Steiger, Louise Rainer, Dustin Hoffman, Richard Dreyfuss, Judy Holiday, Barbara Streisand, Norma Shearer, Adrien Brody and Marlee Matlin. It would serve no useful purpose to continue this name-dropping. It should become patently evident to the reader that a world without Jews would be markedly different and seriously impoverished. If none of these creative individuals had ever lived, every field into which they infused their talents and genius would have suffered irreparable harm. While some might argue that other non-Jews would have filled their shoes, would the way they would have been filled be exactly the same? Could there be an ingredient in the Jewish genome that enables them to excel in certain fields of endeavor? What explains their unique degree of success in so many diverse disciplines? From FLOODS, Page 1
come in, many times the electricity goes out, meaning no ATMs, gas pumps or stores taking credit cards. You will definitely need some cash. One thing I do because I live in the A zone (which means flooding, and, yes, evacuation plans), is keep an emergency suitcase ready to take with me should I need to evacuate. I keep it simple: copies of important documents, banking, homeowners’ insurance, family telephone numbers, medications, pet information and cash. Everyone needs an emergency plan. The middle of a crisis is not the time to plan. Plan now and give yourself a sense of security and a destination for relocation. If you don’t have family or friends in other parts of the area whom you can stay with, look for a location, perhaps a motel, that is considered high and dry, and then map the best way to get there. All roads leading out of the area to the nearest motels or hotels will be traffic jammed. Think outside the box; call ahead for a reservation, leave earlier than anyone else, and it will be smooth sailing...no pun intended. Hopefully, you will be in your car and not in a boat. Don’t be one of those people we’ve all seen on the news leaving their homes in a boat. If you don’t have a car or don’t drive, isn’t it time to make those emergency plans for Dart or the local emergency transportation in your area? All communities have emergency plans and places...it is time for you to be proactive and find out what your county has to offer. Sign up! Don’t kid yourself. Just because the water isn’t rising around you doesn’t mean you are free and clear of the flood conditions. If you are high and dry and surrounding areas are flooded, stay put. Maybe you could offer shelter to a friend in need. If you absolutely need to be somewhere, call to be sure the place you are going to is not flooded, and watch the news for any areas along your route that may be flooded. Call and reschedule routine appointments. Keep dry, stay safe, and Let’s talk! Provided by Ruth Fanovich, RN, LHRM, Owner, Care Placement Home Health Agency, Inc. and RMF Care Management, Inc. www. CarePlacementHH. com.
SEPTEMBER 2015
Senior Voice America
in your home
Garden Connect This is another new beginning for us, writing about all aspects of gardening. Since Steve’s recent retirement, our days are getting fuller and more enjoyable by following our dream and passion, which is gardening. Let us fill you in a little with our backgrounds. I, Jeanne, was born in West Tampa, Fla., when we all had a garden and bartering was the norm. I miss seeing the subtropical and tropical fruits like breadfruit—also known as buen pan, which means good bread. Breadfruit looks like a green textured bowling ball. The inside flesh is white like a potato and grows on a tree. Many delicious dishes can be made from this potato-looking breadfruit. We enjoyed watching a dear friend prepare and cook two main dishes of codfish stew (Bacalao) with chunks of breadfruit and mashed breadfruit stuffed with ground beef and then fried. Steve and I enjoyed these breadfruit dishes so much while we visited Puerto Rico. More information on breadfruit can be found by Googling, “University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, Breadfruit.” Recommended for USDA Zone 10a or protected environments. In 2008, Steve and I obtained our Master Gardener certificates from Pasco County, Fla. I owned and ran a health food business in the ‘80s. We were a military family and came back to Florida to settle down after traveling many years. We are excited to encourage hope in others for gardening. It is a matter of beautification and health for all ages. The latest buzz is the Moringa tree…Google it to learn more!
By Steve & Jeanne Wolfe
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Meet that Someone Special with a FREE listing in Senior to Senior
easy Recipe to make Breadfruit Chips Place breadfruit in a 375-degree oven for 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the size, peel it, slice and fry it in cooking oil. Sprinkle with salt. It should be crispy on the outside and soft and dense inside. Enjoy!
Sail roundtrip aboard the fun Carnival Paradise to Cozumel!
October 8, 2015 (4 nights)
Invites you for the
Sign up by S tickets t ept. 15 and get o the Fl orida O two free rchestra
2015 Senior Cruise
on Carnival’s Paradise from Tampa Special amenities: b HEALTHY LIFE SEMINAR b FITNESS SEMINAR b COCKTAIL PARTY WITH RADIO HOSTS EVAN & DEB b FITNESS CLASSES b $50.00 ON BOARD CREDIT PER STATEROOM Appreciate everything this ship has to offer including the relaxing Serenity Adult Only Retreat & Spa Carnival, Vegas style Majestic Casino, enjoy a cocktail by the resort style pool or at one of the many lounges aboard. Take in a Broadway style show or enjoy many other wonderful activities aboard this exciting ship! In Mexico, take an excursion to the Mayan ruins, relax on the beach, or do some shopping. It’s your choice! Rates starting from $269.00 per person, double occupancy — Taxes and fees: $70.67 per person Deposits are $150.00 per person ($300.00 per stateroom) & final payment is due on 8/10/15. Cabins are limited, so book early! Reserve your stateroom by contacting: Nancy M. Clark, A.C.C. - Cruise Planners/American Express (813) 527-6574 • Toll Free (855) 222-SAIL nclark@cruiseplanners.com • www.ACruiseForMe.com
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Senior Voice America
SEPTEMBER 2015
future planning
Pre-Need Planning with There are many advantages to arranging your cremation services in advance with National Cremation Society®. With National Cremation Society®, everything is included, and nothing is left to chance. With pre-planning: • You protect your family from having to make such decisions at a difficult time. • You make your wishes known to your loved ones. • You make your own decisions about the type of service, merchandise and price. • You prevent emotional overspending by family members who can only guess what you might have wanted. • Your funeral or cremation prearrangement moves with you, whether traveling or relocating. • You lock in today’s prices for services that may not be needed for many years. National Cremation Society® offers the Personal Planning Guide. A completed Personal Planning Guide provides a personal plan of action that helps relieve families of many of the decisions that must be made at the time of a loved one’s death. It also documents additional family information, such as military history, family heritage, estate information, insurance coverage and an inventory of personal property. National Cremation Society® provides this important reference document to all families free of charge. In order to make an informed decision when you pre-arrange cremation services, a family needs to have answers to the following six questions: • Are merchandise and services guaranteed? • What price range is affordable? • What do I want? • What if I move or travel? • What are the tax consequences, if any, to funding my arrangements? • Will this benefit my loved ones and family in the future? The staff at National Cremation Society® welcomes any questions you have. They want to be your source of information and help make your decisions as informed, intelligent, rational and caring as possible. Essentially, cremation pre-planning is a three-step process: (1) Having your
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727-835-7852 www.CareBridgeHC.Com
Serving Pinellas, Pasco, and Hernando Counties
plan paid for in advance, (2) Gathering and organizing your documents with the pre-planning guide, and (3) Making a decision about where your cremated remains will be placed. Why make the pre-arrangements? If you have ever made cremation arrangements after the death of a loved one, you already know the answer to that question. Funeral planning is difficult and emotionally exhausting while struggling with grief and shock. With the help of National Cremation Society’s® qualified staff, planning in advance gives you the ability to make informed, insightful decisions that will spare your loved ones from this task. Why pay ahead of time? Pre-funding protects your family from emotional overspending. There are funding options and payment plans to meet almost any situation. When funding the pre-arrangement, your cremation contract will identify the person selling the contract and the person purchasing the contract. The contract will contain complete descriptions and current prices of merchandise and services that are purchased. And, you lock in today’s prices, avoiding inflation. What if I prearrange with National Cremation Society® and then move? That’s fine; your prearrangements will move with you. National Cremation Society® has a growing network of offices to serve your needs. This transferability benefit is included in our cremation plans. If, for any reason, National Cremation Society® can’t perform the service, your money is safe, and your designated beneficiary will receive it. There is no additional charge for this benefit. Here are some commonly “misguided” thoughts about cremation pre-arrangements: • Who cares what happens to me when I depart? Maybe you don’t care, but your family or loved one will have to. Decisions made by them may be influenced by grief, not by reasonable thinking, and can result in emotional over-spending. • I don’t want to think about it. No one wants to think about his or her own death. You don’t want to think about a car accident or your home being destroyed either, but you probably have insurance on your car and home. • My insurance will take care of it. Insurance does not tell your loved ones how to plan your cremation services, which crematory to use or how much to spend. Often, the policy is not enough to cover the expenses, and sometimes the coverage has been canceled or has expired. Cremation services must be paid before cremation, and insurance assignments are not accepted. Insurance provides dollars only and does not give your family the information they need when they receive that phone call, usually in the middle of the night. • I can’t afford it. With the different payment plans, it may be more affordable than you think. National Cremation Society® offers payment plans for every budget. • My friend, attorney or family will arrange everything. Many decisions must be made, possibly by someone that you don’t trust or agree with. • My decisions are noted in my will. Do you even have a will? If so, does someone know where it is? Most wills are not read until after the cremation has taken place. • I don’t know what crematory to choose; I may be moving in the future. Our cremation plans are transferable, allowing your plans to move with you. • The family knows what I want. Discussions about death with your family are rarely taken seriously and often avoided or put off. • The government will take care of it; I’m a veteran. The government will take care of the expenses only if you are on active duty at time of death. • Social Security pays for my funeral. Social Security only pays a “survivor benefit” of $255.00 if there is an eligible spouse or dependent child. National Cremation Society holds seminars monthly. To register for a seminar or for more information, please call National Cremation Society® at (727) 536-0494.
SEPTEMBER 2015
Senior Voice America
self help
What Is, Is While the saying, “What is, is,” has some value, we tend to lump everything into this catch-all phrase. If one is addressing acceptance of a situation that is out of our control, then, “what is, is” is a good analogy. However, many times it is used as a copout for something we don’t want to deal with. Maybe we are just procrastinating, or we are fearful of the effects of addressing issues we’d rather let lay dormant, hoping they will go away. A gas tank running on empty will only go so long on fumes before the car comes to a stop. Something must be done about it. In this scenario, stopping at a gas station before the gauge goes to empty solves the issue. However, trusting your stars may find you in the middle of nowhere, and now the problem is compounded. Yet how many people do we know that are always running on empty? Avoidance almost always creates more anxiety in the long run, eating at you bit by bit until whatever it is is dealt with. Annoyances, be they a neighbor’s barking dog or someone blocking your parking space, can usually be put to rest by non-confrontational conversations. Health issues like heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes or an open wound will not improve without intervention. Likewise, a dripping facet will continue to drip and run up the water bill. When it comes to a leaking roof, we’re talking big-time consequences if it’s ignored. Ignoring problems does not work, and, in the end, things get a lot worse and costlier to fix. Taking a proactive position can prevent problems from surfacing, whether it’s your health or house or relationships. Ignorance is not bliss, and it’s much easier on the nerves and peace of mind if we address things sooner rather than later. Other “What is, is” issues, like rising grocery prices, taxes or the weather, are pretty much beyond our control, but we can address those issues, too, if we wish; doing what we can to shop more frugally might help, but there is not much we can do about the weather other than move. It’s our call to accept what we can and go on or to put our energy in trying to change things if we feel the cause is worth it and our efforts can make a difference. In the end, if one doesn’t avoid the inevitable but meets it head on before it becomes a mountain, we will be able to prevent the zapping of our finances, energy and peace.
By Carolyn Shockey
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Senior Happenings the ceremony, food and beverages will be available for pur- 7-15. chase in the post. Stop by early and view the memorial, The FL St. Fairgrounds are located at 4802 U.S. 301 N, which includes items from all attack sites. 9:00 a.m. Tampa, FL. The VFW Post is located at 14736 Edward R. Noll Drive, African Violet and Gesneriad Celebration Spring Hill, FL. For more information (352) 796-0398. Tribute to Heroes Memorial Service
Memorial Site at Riverwalk September 11
Participate in this special ceremony taking place at Riverwalk’s Emergency Services Memorial to pay tribute to those who died on 9/11 as well as honoring local public Labor Day Picnic and Bluegrass Festival service employees and local emergency workers who risk Brandon Elks Lodge their lives daily to protect the community. Sponsored by the Manatee Fire Chief’s Association, the event is open to September 7 Celebrate your day off with food, drinks, family and the public and takes place from 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Event location: Memorial Site at Riverwalk, Bradenmusic. Headliner, Hwy 41 South along with Hudson Creek ton, FL. and Sassafrass perform in the grand hall. Plus, games, a bounce house and water slide for the kids. 11:00 a.m. Pinellas Park Art Society Exhibit Price: Donations accepted; cost for food. Stirling Art Studio Brandon Elks Lodge is located at 800 Centennial Lodge Drive, Brandon, FL. September 11 - 30 The reception is in conjunction with Dunedin’s Art and Country Fest Wine Walk. Remains on display through the month of Snook Haven September. 5:30 p.m. Free. Stirling Art Studio is located at 730 Broadway, September 7 Come out to celebrate Labor Day at the 3rd Annual Dunedin, FL. Country Fest featuring Kim Betts & Gamble Creek Band as Tampa Theatre Winefest well as Gator Creek Band and more. 11:00 a.m.- 7:00 p.m. Tampa Theatre Tickets: $10 at the door. Country Fest will take place at Snook Haven, 5000 E. September 11 - 13 Venice Avenue, Venice, FL. The theme for this year’s giant annual movie-themed wine festival is Napoleon Wineamite and includes food Ministry & Mental Health from local restaurants, wine pairing, premium tasting, The Great Life Church grand tasting, wine brunch and the 95 pt+ tasting. Benefits the theater’s artistic, educational programs and restoSeptember 8 Presented by Springbrook Hospital in association with ration efforts. Event starts at 7:00 p.m., with Premium BayCare, the event is for church leaders and those involved Tasting from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and the Grand Tasting in ministry, mental health and addiction. The event aims from 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Tickets: $50-$85 tastings; to strengthen the partnership between faith communities $250 pairing; $40 brunch; $250 95 pt+ tasting. The Tampa Theatre is located at 711 Franklin St., Tamand mental health providers. Lunch will be available for pa, FL. For more information (813) 274-8982 or www. purchase. 9:00 a.m. Price: $5 registration fee. The Great Life Church is located at 14494 Cortez Blvd., tampatheatrewinefest.org. Brooksville, FL. YMCA 9/11 Run to Remember Working Women of Tampa Bay Conference Spring Hill
Straz Center for the Performing Arts September 10
The third annual conference features the author of I Know How She Does It: How Successful Women Make the Most of Their Time, Laura Vanderkam. Th. 6:00 p.m., Fr. 9:00 a.m. Tickets $25 networking reception, $100 early bird general admission, $150 early bird VIP. The Straz Center is located at 1010 N MacInnes Place, Tampa, FL. Jaws and Richard Dreyfuss
Capitol Theatre September 10
A 40th anniversary screening of the “don’t go in the water” horror phenomenon Jaws. Times movie critic Steve Persall conducts a talk back with film star Richard Dreyfuss after the screening. Benefits the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. 7:00 p.m. Tickets: $39.50-$75. The Capitol Theatre is located at 405 Cleveland St., Clearwater, FL. 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony
VFW Post 10209 September 11
University of S. Fl. Botanical Gardens September 12
The colorful family of plants that include African violets are showcased at Tampa Bay Gesneriad Society’s annual celebration, with the easy care house plants on display and for sale, plus advice for growing them. There are Episcias, Achimenes,Gloxinias and more for sale at the Plant Shop. For more information, email Anne Martinez at 4jam@tampabay.rr.com. 9:00 a.m. Free admission. The USF Botanical Gardens are located at 12210 USF Pine Dr., Tampa, FL. For more information (813) 974-2329. Festival Del Sabor (Flavor Fest)
Ybor City September 12
The family-friendly event showcases the sabor (flavor) of Tampa Bay’s Hispanic culture through food, music and art. Festival del Sabor features a recipe contest and cookoff to find Tampa Bay’s best arroz con pollo, with cash prizes awarded. 11:00 a.m. Free (items individually priced). Festival’s location: 1800 E Eighth Ave., Tampa, FL. Rockin’ Wings Festival
Payne Park September 12
Sample some of Sarasota’s best wings while enjoying live music, vendors, face painting, games, a motorcycle show and a kids zone. Benefits the Lazarus Foundation Kids Force. 12:00 p.m. Tickets: $5, 12 and younger free. Payne Park is located at 2050 Adams Ln., Sarasota, FL. Repticon Lakeland Reptile & Exotic Animal Show
The Lakeland Center September 12 & 13
This is a 5K memorial run and 1-mile walk in remembrance of the terrorist attacks from Sept. 11, 2001. A continental breakfast will follow. Commemorative T-shirt available for purchase, available at the Y’s member service desk. 7:00 a.m. Free (registration required). Event location: 1300 Mariner Blvd., Spring Hill, FL.
September 12
Repticon Lakeland Reptile & Exotic Animal Show 2015 promises to be another historic event filled with top-quality reptiles and amphibians, presentations, and more! Event features vendors offering reptile pets, supplies, feeders, cages, and merchandise as well as live animal seminars and frequent free raffles for coveted prizes. Exciting, educational, family-oriented fun for everyone! Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (VIP Entry at 9:00 a.m.) Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Tickets: adults – $10, children (5-12) – $5, under 5 – Free. Visit our website for special offers on 2-day and VIP tickets. The Lakeland Center is located at 701 West Lime Street, Lakeland FL. For more information www.repticon.com.
9/11 Memorial Stair Climb
I Like It Hot Festival
Citrus High School September 12
Minnreg Building September 12 & 13
To honor the 343 firefighters, 60 law enforcement officers, eight emergency medical technicians and 125 military personnel who died in the World Trade Center Towers and Pentagon building, climbers will scale 110 floors to symbolize the floors in the World Trade Center. Add an optional challenge and do it wearing full firefighter gear and air tank. Benefits the National Fallen Firefighter Foundation. 7:00 a.m. Tickets: $35 advance, $45 day of. Citrus H. S. is located at 600 W. Highland Blvd., Inverness, FL. For more information (352) 422-1581 or www.imathlete.com.
Turn up the heat with fiery foods, searing sauces, salsas and more at the 15th annual spicy food festival with a pepper eating contest, amateur hot sauce competition, a hot hula hoop competition, spicy lolly lick-a-thon, amateur salsa competition, free samples and hundreds of pepper plants for sale. Get $1 off admission with the donation of a canned food item. 10:00 a.m. Tickets: $5, 12 and younger free. The Minnreg Bldg. is located at 6340 126th Ave. N, Largo, FL. For more information (727) 423-8433 or www. ILikeItHotFestival.com.
Flavor Run 5K
Mad Beach Bike Fest
Florida State Fairgrounds Madeira Beach Hosted by the Retired New York City Firefighters of September 12 September 13 Spring Hill, the event is to remember and honor the vicThis untimed 5K race puts a whole new twist on the Bike enthusiasts will show their classic, antique, new tims of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Light refreshments will be served prior to the ceremony. The ceremony popular color runs adding fruit-flavored powder, live en- and customized motorcycles at this 10-class festival with will include the posting of colors, lowering the flag to half- tertainment, health vendors, finisher medals and fresh live music, chance drawings, food and vendors. 10:00 a.m. staff, the laying of wreaths and a 21-gun salute. Following fruit at the finish line. 9:00 a.m. Tickets: $60, $25 youth Free.
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Senior Voice America
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Senior Happenings Festival’s location: 15004 Madeira Way, Madeira Beach, FL. SCIPS 50+ Dinner
Kally-K’s Steakery Fishery September 15, 22, 29
SCIPS 50+ Singles hosts a Weekly Dinner on Tuesdays, running through the end of year. 6:00 p.m. Kally-K is located at 1600 Main St., Dunedin, FL. Flicks and Food Trucks
Channelside September 17
Grab some grub from 15 to 17 gourmet food trucks offering a wide variety of tastes, beers and micro-brews. Then find a seat to watch independent short, 10- to 15-minute films with live music between films. 6:00 p.m. Free (food/drink additional). Event location: 1120 E Kennedy Blvd., Tampa, FL. Benefit Wine Tasting
Tampa September 17
Benefit for the Humane Society of Pinellas no-kill animal shelter, with more than 40 premium wines like Dominus 2008, Mount Veeder, Newton and others from Fine Wines & Spirits Warehouse, along with cheeses. 6:00 p.m. Tickets: $25, $40 per couple. Event location: 3613 S Beach Drive, Tampa, FL. Dancing with the Stars Fundraiser
Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club September 18
Five well known Pinellas residents will compete in a Dancing with the Stars style competition. Includes a social hour, cash bar, dinner, dancing and mixed entertainment. Benefits Tarpon Springs High School Band. 6:00 p.m. Tickets: $75. The Innisbrook Resort is located at 36750 U.S. 19 N, Palm Harbor, FL. Friday Fest
Van Wezel September 18
Enjoy an evening on the Bayfront at the 14th annual summer music fest series with live music by Reverend Barry & Funktastic Soul Featuring The Hellacious Horns. This closes out the season’s series. Bring your lawn chair or blanket, food and drink vendors available, outside food and drink is prohibited. Rain or shine, it moves indoors in case of inclement weather. 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is located at 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL . You Should Be Dancing
Ruth Eckerd Hall September 18
The main stage is transformed into a “disco inferno” for Ruth Eckerd’s Saturday Night Fever inspired 10th anniversary celebration with a seated dinner, dancing to live music by the Southtown Fever Band, cocktails and a silent auction. Benefits education programs of the Marcia P. Hoffman School of the Arts. 6:30 p.m. Tickets: $250$350. Ruth Eckerd Hall is located at 1111 N. McMullen-Booth Road, Clearwater, FL. For more information (727) 7917400. Tampa Bay Boat Show
Florida State Fairgrounds September 18 - 20
Three days of boats, trailers, watercrafts, fishing seminars and exhibits, showcasing area boat dealers and manufacturers, with the latest in boating, fishing supplies and accessories. 10:00 a.m. Free, $6 parking. The FL St. Fairgrounds are located at 4802 U.S. 301 N,
Tampa, FL. For more information (727) 893-8523.
Beer Night St. Pete
Downtown St. Petersburg September 25
Brandon Beer and Burger Throw Down
The Pole Barn September 19
Taste your way through the best beer and burgers Brandon has to offer at festival with cornhole tournament (at 2:00 p.m.), live entertainment and vendors. Samples from Microbrewery Beer Garden, and select People’s Choice Craft Brew. Vote for Best Burger in the Bay winner (announced at 6:00 p.m.) Additional food, beer and wine available for purchase. Portion of proceeds benefit Boys and Girls Club of East Hillsborough. Starting at 1:00 p.m. $5 entry fee. The Pole Barn is located at11349 Bloomingdale Ave., Riverview, FL. For more information (727) 674-1464. City: Fashion+Art+Culture
Tampa Museum of Art September 19
The sixth annual fashion and cultural event features a runway show by New York-based designer Zang Toi presenting his spring 2016 fashion line. Includes appetizers, open bar, wine, champagne, craft beers, dessert, entertainment and dancing. 7:00 p.m. Tickets: $150. Tampa Museum of Art is located at 120 Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, FL. Volunteer Reunion
Palm Harbor Library September 20
A “Volunteer Reunion” is being planned for Sunday, from 2:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. If you have worked or volunteered at the library, right from the beginning, Palm Harbor Library is looking for you. This is a once in a lifetime event. Your presence will help make it a day to remember! The Palm Harbor library is located at 2330 Nebraska Ave, Palm Harbor, FL. For information or to R.S.V.P., call (727) 784-3332 x 3006. Food Truck Wars
Central Park in Downtown Winter Haven September 20
More than 100 top local and regional craft brews and ciders along with restaurant cuisine, at upscale, all inclusive tasting that celebrates Tampa Bay’s robust craft beer scene. Portion of proceeds benefits the St. Petersburg Arts Alliance and the Waterfront Parks Foundation. Must be 21 or older. From 5:30 p.m. Price: $65 advance, or $80 day of event, if available; $95 VIP. Event location: Fifth Avenue NE and Bayshore Drive, St. Petersburg, FL. Night of the Iguana
TPepin’s Hospitality Centre September 25
This annual “Iguana” themed event includes food samples by area restaurants, live entertainment, cocktails and a silent auction. Benefits the Make A Wish Foundation Central and N. Florida Chapter. 7:00 p.m. Tickets: $85. TPepin’s Hospitality Centre is located at 4121 N 50th St., Tampa, FL. 3rd Annual Suncoast Spearfishing Challenge
Marina Jack’s September 25 - 27
It’s the 3rd Annual Suncoast Spearfishing Challenge. The event is hosted by Marina Jack’s and benefits a new charity each year. The marina includes full amenities, fuel dock, ship’s store and ground transportation. Sponsor party Sept. 24 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Registration Sept. 25 by 8:30 p.m. Awards presentation Sept. 27 1:00 p.m. 5:00 p.m. Each year, for this exciting underwater hunt and challenge, there is free entry for military, fire fighters, EMS and law enforcement personnel. Marina Jack’s is located in the Sarasota Bay Front. For more information www.suncoastspearfishingchallenge.com. Oktoberfest
Motorworks Brewing
Event features over 40 gourmet food trucks from all September 26 - 28 over the state competing for 5 prestigious prizes awarded Enjoy this traditional festival in Bradenton. Along with by celebrity judges. 5 categories: the Spirit Award, Top Sales, Delectable Desserts, Casual Cuisine and the cov- a Lederhosen contest, enjoy many of the beers brewed on eted People’s Choice Award. Lots of food choices from site, German food from local food trucks and caterers and Thai and Mexican dishes to lobster and everything in be- their beautiful beer garden, known as the largest in the tween...don’t forget dessert because there will be plenty of Sunshine State. Fri. from 3:00 p.m., Sat. & Sun. from that too. Admission free, food costs run from $3 to $18. 11:00 a.m. Free admission. Festival location: 1014 9th St., W., Bradenton, FL. There will be a special kid’s area and live music from Band Haven for even more fun. 2:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Central Park is located at 5th Street SW, Winter Haven, FL. Lourdes@Seniorvoiceamerica.com The Deadline for the October Issue is September 15th Best of the Bay
Email Your Senior Happening to:
Downtown St. Petersburg September 23
Celebrate 25th anniversary of the award party, with 25 food and beverage tasting stations, and guest presenters awarding Creative Loafing’s ‘Best of the Bay’ to area restaurants, businesses, and other organizations. 6:00 p.m. Tickets: $25 advance, $35 at door. Event location: 400 First St. S, St. Petersburg, FL.
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Senior Voice America
SEPTEMBER 2015
travel
Riviera MayaMagnificent, Magical and Memorable Thinking of taking a vacation out of the ordinary, with sun and salty waves mixed with plenty of history and magic? The Riviera Maya is the booming tourist coast of Mexico, extending along the Caribbean coast of the Yucatan Peninsula in the state of Quintana Roo. This paradisiacal coastline was originally just a conglomerate of fishing villages that slowly grew with construction of the many hotels. It now forms the world-renowned tourist corridor that offers services for all budgets and tastes. In 1999, the area previously known as the Cancun to Tulum Corridor was baptized with the title of Riviera Maya, and it now includes the tourist destinations of Playa del Carmen and the island of Cozumel, as well as the lesser-developed sister cities of Puerto Morelos and Puerto Aventuras. As it continues its growth and urban development, the Riviera Maya has become the No. 1 tourist destination in all of Mexico, and one of the most visited among world sites. An ideal vacation destination for those who love nature and sea-related activities, the Riviera offers breathtaking, beautiful white sandy beaches with clear turquoise waters that are hard to match. Coastal waters are home to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, or Belize Barrier Reef, second longest in the world and a true treasure of natural underwater beauty, which is highly admired by the many who practice the sports of scuba diving and snorkeling. There is much more to add to your vacation by enjoying the many adventure-filled opportunities, such as jungle tours, discovering the mysterious glory of swimming in cenotes, and visiting archeologically important sites, such as Tulum on the coast, or Chichen Itza and Coba, which are inland. Then there are wonderful ecological amusement parks that have been developed in the last decade, including the renowned Xcaret, Xel-Ha and Xplore, all of which include many water sports, offer the opportunity to swim in underground river formations, to view Mayan ruins, native flora and fauna, participate in adrenaline-filled activities and be entertained by folkloric colorful shows. The average tourist will find suitable lodging in Cancun or Playa del Carmen to fit any budget and please the most eccentric tastes. Cancun alone has more than 32,000 rooms, which cater from luxury all-inclusive resorts to small boutique hotels to more budget accommodations, you can choose whatever plan suits you and your family. The same goes for Playa del Carmen, which has recently undergone rapid development of hotels and resorts, luxury residential condominium buildings, restaurants, boutiques and entertainment venues. The hotels and resorts chain Oasis has made its presence felt in the entire Riviera by offering a variety of locations that range from the business suites in downtown Cancun to the moderate, to luxurious all-inclusive resorts that can cater to families with children, such as The Pyramid, Oasis and Palm. They have also extended into other venues, such as the Oasis Sens, which is an adult-only, romantic and risquĂŠ environment, and the Oasis Tulum, for those searching for the relaxation amidst spectacular natural wonders, away from the crowds, but with upscale, first-class service, and finally the Oh!, which are more budget-friendly accommodations, but offer the benefit of using facilities at other resorts and even include the use of a Smart car. We have found in our many stays with the Oasis family that attention to detail is a guarantee, and that the many restaurants available offer the best quality and gourmet variety for a truly culinary experience. Oasis also makes a great effort to blend in local history, decor and culture into all their venues, including very professional entertainment, ranging from musical groups, top name live concerts to full Las Vegas-style shows. Visiting one of these locations will enhance any vacation. Nature is the main source of fun and activities in this region, with water sports providing the bulk of recreation. Aquaworld is a company that will cater to all your water adventure needs, and Continues on next page
By Lourdes M. SĂĄenz, Creative Director
SEPTEMBER 2015
Senior Voice America
they are very conveniently located in the Cancun hotel zone. Try everything from fishing and scuba diving to motorized tours on individual speedboats (or wave runners through the jungle in Nichupté Bay), to parasailing and mini-sub excursions, to a visit to the amazing underwater museum, MUSA, with more than 470 sculptures, to family-friendly snorkel trips. We participated in this last one, labeled “Paradise Sub and Snorkel,” in which we were transported to the minisub and were taken along part of the reef at Punta Nizuc, able to take in the beautiful views of sea life, corals and some of the MUSA sculptures in a comfortable, air-conditioned environment. Then we headed to the other platform ship, enjoyed cold drinks, and got ready for snorkeling in small groups accompanied by our guide (Special thanks to Aldo!). We swam in a safe environment and at a good pace to the nearby reef, which offered us such abundance of tropical sea life activity and perfect visibility that I must say it has to be my very best snorkeling adventure ever! The Aquaworld team is perfectly capable, friendly, fun and entertaining. Another amazing opportunity offered by a partner company of Aquaworld is at Dolphinaris, with six different locations throughout the Riviera Maya and varied activity packages that allow the participant to experience the marvelous dolphins la musa firsthand, ranging from interaction to swimming and other actividel oc eano © rober to diaz ties, to the most extensive, which is being a trainer for a day. All of them are offered in a very nice location with professional staff, have wonderful photo and video souvenirs for sale, and, in general, provide a very family-friendly atmosphere where memories will be made to treasure forever. Other tour companies cater to the adrenaline seeker and are very conscious of the safe-keeping of the natural environment in the Riviera. Alltournative Offtrack Adventures, an award-winning organization, offers great tours that honor their name by immersing the participant in all that nature has to offer, including extreme sports and loads of fun. This is not for the faint of heart, but if I can do this at my almost-half-century mark, then it can be done and enjoyed by most! We joined two tours—first the Jungle Maya, which took our small group deep into the jungle in a fast truck ride. We participated in a Maya purification ceremony with a shaman, and then rappelled into the beautiful Yaxmuul Cenote. Cenotes are natural swimming holes formed by the collapse of porous limestone bedrock, which has revealed a secret subterranean world of groundwater pools. Even if you have already experienced these wonderful scenarios, they manage to grab your attention with their magical and serene beauty. Swimming in these cold, clear waters is memorable. The tour takes you on exciting ziplines high above the greenery of the forest, and then another swim and snorkel into the Nohoch Nah Chiich cavern, surrounded by millenary stalactites and stalagmites. This was a truly amazing experience, swimming quietly in the darkness and having our guide illuminate the depth of these awesome rock formations. Words will not do justice to the magic of this moment. See RIVIERA, Page 19
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SEPTEMBER 2015
humor
Shot Put By Garret Mathews I don’t know what you did last night, but I had a track and field tournament. Well, field. I have a 16-pound shot put that I fling to keep fit, and in hopes one of the neighbors will call the cops to report Paul Bunyan is loose. My only competition was a second-grader up the street whose heave could be measured in inches and a squirrel that chose not to participate even after I offered to pay its entry fee. Ah, winning. The good feeling never goes away. I’ll take your questions. Isn’t a shot put a strange toy for an adult? Not really. I look at the thing as a marble that received too much human growth hormone. Is there a secret to flipping the shot put farther than a little neighbor kid? Yes. You must have a good grunt, one that is uniquely your own. I favor “HARRUMGOOSBUH,” but “PUCKAPUCAAWHOOSH” works just as well. So that’s why a shot-putter’s face always looks like he’s being tasered? Yes. You must also have the proper swagger; the stiffer the legs, the better. Our role model is Frankenstein’s monster. Do you practice safe shot put? Not always. Some almost-grown-ups who were on my kids’ baseball teams years ago came over and we played catch with it. One guy dropped the thing on his foot. We laughed hysterically. I can honestly say that’s the highest level of guyness ever achieved in my yard. Is there some other reason to throw a heavy weight other than for the amusement of tiny male minds? Yes. I do not own a gun. Prowlers to our abode will receive a face full of shot put. It should make for an interesting mug shot down at the station. You sound anxious for this to happen. I’m leaving the light on. Is there any credence to the rumor that shot-putters lack intelligence? I prefer to think we are sneaky smart. You buy expensive products to kill your grass. We throw the shot put. Is there some sort of inner peace a shot-putter achieves after a particularly good hurl? I don’t know about Zen, but the moles hate the round ball and that’s good enough for me. One last question: What’s the best thing that can happen when throwing the shot put? A moon landing.
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future planning
Intergenerational Meddling As a person ages, one way to preserve peace of mind and family harmony is for all concerned to be circumspect about meddling. All too often, we see instances in which families get it wrong. Adult children may try to intrude unnecessarily in the life of a parent, often out of self-serving motives. Parents may be overbearing and meddlesome in the lives of adult children. For an example of the first type, consider the case of lonely, aging widower Moe. This was a classic instance of adult children trying to deprive a parent of a second chance at marital happiness because of wanting to keep his estate intact for themselves. Moe, very lonely after the death of his spouse, had three daughters, none of whom lived at home with him. He considered remarriage. However, when he began to court an attractive widow, the daughters jointly mounted a campaign to protect their inheritances by intruding in the relationship in not-so-subtle ways, including bringing false charges against the lady to police and to Adult Protective Services. The woman was scared away. Only after losing his lady love did Moe do what he should have done sooner: consult a lawyer. The lawyer prepared a will. Moe circulated photocopies to the three daughters. The relevant passage of the will had a conditional disinheritance clause that went approximately as follows: The rest, remainder and residue of my estate I devise as follows: provided I am married at the time of my death, fifty percent to my surviving spouse; the remaining fifty percent to be allocated in three approximately equal shares (subject to my Personal Representative’s sole and absolute discretion) to my daughters Eenie, Meanie and Miney, with the share of any daughter who predeceases me to lapse and to be allocated to the survivor or survivors of them; provided, however, that if I am unmarried at the time of my death, then the foregoing devises shall all lapse and I intentionally, and with conscious thought, exclude my daughters from taking under my estate. In that event, I devise the rest, remainder and residue of my estate in its entirety to the American Cancer Society, or to its successor in interest, in memory of my first wife Brunhilde, for its public charitable and/or medical research purposes. Guess what? Moe is now contentedly remarried. The reverse situation, where parents intrude too much into the lives of adult children, or are too toxic for adult children to handle, is also commonplace. If you are a senior with adult children, you need to show the respect to them that you require from them for yourself. Here’s an example. Nan, an adult child of a cantankerous father, received a letter from him, reading, in part, “By working hard all my life, I’ve amassed an estate of six figures. It is too bad you don’t care about being nice to me. That money could have made your old age very comfortable.” While still in her twenties, the father had refused to attend Nan’s college graduation (on the rationale that the daughter “didn’t deserve it”). Thereafter, the daughter had decided to stop making herself available for the backbiting, meddling and unremitting criticism typical of her father’s style of dealing with his children. She essentially wrote the father out of her life. She would not provide him with information about her lifestyle, career or anything else that he might seize upon to criticize and belittle her. Life events came and went, and Nan never told her father about them. For instance, she married a fine man. Not only did she not invite her father to the wedding, she never even told him she was married. At the time the father wrote the “six figures” letter to the daughter, he was in the dark about the fact that she and her husband had made a wonderful life for themselves and already amassed an estate of seven figures. The daughter never told the father how foolishly he came across. She left her father’s nasty letter unanswered and went on with her life. The King James Bible, Proverbs 11:29, says, “He that troubleth his own house shall inherit the wind.” It might likewise say, “He that troubleth his own house shall devise the wind.” If you have a relative who is closely enough related to have an expectancy of taking under your estate plan—a spouse, son, daughter, etc.—and you have a good reason to disinherit the person, then do so, by all means; make sure the estate plan enunciates a brief and concise reason why you are doing so. During life, however, avoid manipulating people with the tasteless and ghoulish suggestion that they will gain or lose something from your passing. You might just find that they get mad enough to do something to make you go sooner! Joyce Holly is a retired attorney and the author of “Ten Stupid Things Aging Americans Do to Mess Up Their Lives and Financial Situation” as well as the novel, “An Inconvenient Old Woman.” Holly’s books are available for purchase on Amazon.com.
By Joyce Holly
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Senior Voice America
SEPTEMBER 2015
remembering
Farewell to My 91-Year-Old Friend All of us who knew my downstairs neighbor, Anna, age 91, are pretty certain she greeted the arch-foe Death with a high five. Anna passed away July 15 of this year. It’s what she wanted. To be sure, if you knew anything at all about Anna, you knew this was her elusive desire. It was the main thing she talked about if you stopped by to chat with her as she sat outside her apartment. I believe she even had a version of “the” conversation with Queenie, her adopted feral cat, as if an animal with nine lives could comprehend Anna’s lament over one. For sure, Anna felt that her time here on this planet was excruciatingly too long. At least that was the word I heard from her for the decade I knew her. Who knows what goes through the mind of a 91-year-old woman who lost both her beloved husband and son some 20-plus years ago and, a year ago, a sister-like friend who helped ease that awful feeling of invisibility and loneliness that often besieges the elderly. The truth is, Anna was loved, and those of us who knew this lady were astounded by her vitality, especially in light of her melancholy. Sometimes I would look out my upstairs window and gasp to see Anna, even at 90, up on a step-stool trying to wax the roof of her garnet red 1989 Buick Century. I would protest that she should let me do that monthly ritual, but she would have none of it. That was Anna. Strong. Independent. Proud. When hospice nurses came to her apartment to help her the last several months of her life, she often would shoo them out the door. “I don‘t need someone to tell me how to clean a house or warn me about tripping over a rug!” She would protest. She was insulted when medical personnel or others would discuss her prognosis as if she weren’t right there in the room with them. Despite her professed hearing loss, Anna seemed to catch every word of those particular conversations. In some respects, you had to smile at her rants, because Anna won more than one round for dignity. She had stereotypes of the elderly down for the count, that’s for certain. When hospice insisted she use a walker, she referred to it as “that thing!” Trust me, she was hell on wheels when she would push it across the apartment parking lot to get her mail. “You know, Anna, that we do have a 10 mph speed limit,” I would tease her. Even before the walker, she would strut straight-backed to the mailbox like a woman who had served seven stints in the military. Anna never acted her age, and she certainly never looked her age, either. Sometimes I would pull into my parking space and see her sitting outside her apartment, the wind blowing the scarf around her neck, and her wiping a stray wisp of hair off her face with a regal air. Her hairstyle mimicked Katharine Hepburn’s or Eleanor Roosevelt’s, and she possessed a beauty not defined by cosmetics but by her own inward spirit. Even while in deep sadness, Anna had a keen sense of humor. We were discussing her funeral service wishes one day, and she said her priest nixed her song request: “Please Release Me, Let Me Go”, a tune made popular by Engelbert Humperdinck back in the ‘60s. I think she was kidding about making the request, but with Anna, one never knew for certain. One thing I do know for sure: She will be sorely missed.
By Jean Mlincek
Jean Mlincek is a freelance writer who resides in St. Petersburg, Fla.
Health, Wealth & Wisdom
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SEPTEMBER 2015
Senior Voice America
Our second tour was nATiVes, which, as the capital letters point out, is a four-wheeler ride through the Mayan jungle trails. This was a fun and thrilling afternoon of fast riding, visiting points of interest like Mayan ruins, caves, and a typical family farm as well as a refreshing swim in another beautiful and clear cenote. All of Alltournative’s guides are very knowledgeable and courteous, and go out of their way to help each participant feel safe and enjoy the activities to the fullest (Special thanks to Jonathan!) We have worked with them on other occasions, but these two trips were definitely memorable, and we will surely visit them in the future. Thumbs up to this company for their arduous labor of safekeeping the natural environment of the region through the preservation of its flora and fauna, as well as integrating the local inhabitants of the communities through employment in IF YOU food service, as guides and photographers, thus helping prevent migration and the disintegration of this important cultural group. Weather you are searching for that relaxing getaway, a family-fun vacation or the thrill of a lifetime, the Riviera Maya offers the best of both worlds, a combination of the natural pristine environment and the comforts of civilization. From Cancun’s hotel zone with its skyline, hustle and bustle to the untouched coastlines of the Yucatan peninsula, to islands full of tropical flavor like Cozumel or Isla Mujeres, it is all only a short flight from the Tampa Bay Area, and it will welcome you with soft breezes, salty air and a friendly smile. So take off your shoes and leave your footprint in the whitest of sands in this bit of paradise, the Riviera Maya. From RIVIERA, Page 15
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Senior Voice America
SEPTEMBER 2015
Entertainment Ethan Coen’s Almost an Evening
Straz Center - Shimberg Playhouse September 9 - October 4
Three satiric shorts by Oscar-winning screenwriter Ethan Coen. “Raising Arizona,” “Fargo,” “No Country for Old Men,” “Burn After Reading” – the Coen brothers’ films are some of the most critically acclaimed and iconic of our time. Now, one half of the duo adds playwriting to his eclectic bio. Almost an Evening ran to sold-out houses OffBroadway in 2008. The overall theme of the collection of hilarious shorts is hell – both on Earth and in the hereafter. Clever, provocative, and as engaging as the best fiction, these plays showcase yet another talent of one of our most celebrated contemporary writers. 8:00 p.m. Tickets: $28. Ed Sheeran
Amalie Arena September 10
Sheeran is still riding high with the chart-topping success of his current single “Thinking Out Loud.” Already one of the biggest songs of 2015, “Thinking Out Loud” has earned Sheeran the highest charting of his career at multiple formats, going to #1 at Top 40, Hot AC, and adult radio, as well as holding the #2 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 for a staggering eight consecutive weeks. “Thinking Out Loud” is the third single from Sheeran’s RIAA-certified platinum album “x” (pronounced multiply), which recently won “Best British Album” at the 2015 BRIT Awards and was nominated for “Album Of The Year” at the 57th Annual GRAMMY Awards. This concert features special guest appearance by singer/songwriter Christina Perri and Jamie Lawson. 7:30 p.m. Tickets $56.25 & $66.25. Lillette Jenkins-Wisner
Ruth Eckerd Hall - Murray Studio Theater September 10 -13
The legendary jazz pianist, known as “Queen of the Keys,” presents her farewell concert. Featuring pianist Jade Simmons, who will portray Lillette in the upcoming biopic and musical stage play, Lillette’s Rhythm Club, which the concert will include highlights from. 8:00 p.m. Tickets: $50. Zappa Plays Zappa
Jannus Live September 11
Frank Zappa’s son, Dweezil Zappa, is at the helm of the band as it recreates Frank Zappa and The Mothers of Invention’s final album, One Size Fits All on its 40th anniversary. It promises to be a thoughtful recreation of one of Zappa’s most complex albums with a non-traditional orchestral rock sound. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $25.50. Jannus Live is located at 200 First Ave. N, St. Petersburg, FL. For more information (727) 565-0550. Arnez J.
Tampa Improv September 11 - 13
To those in the know Arnez J. is quickly emerging as one of the hottest, most talked about comedic artists in the game. His raw energy, talent and comedic skill quickly landed Arnez the coveted hosting slot on BET’s longestrunning comedy series “Comic View” for two seasons joining the ranks of hosts such as D.L. Hughley and Cedric the Entertainer. Fri. 8:00 p.m. and 10:30 p.m., Sat. 7:30 p.m. and 10:00 p.m., Sun. 7:00 p.m. 21 and over. Tampa Improv is located at 1600 E 8th Ave C-112, Tampa, FL. www.improvtampa.com. Martin Lawrence: Live Doin’ Time
Straz Center of the Perf. Arts September 12
The comedic legend, actor and producer rose to fame with his ‘90s sitcom, Martin, and went on to star in numerous hit movies, including Bad Boys, Big Momma’s House and Life, but his career all started with his stand up. 8:00 p.m. Tickets: $39.50-$110. Van Halen
MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheater September 13
Van Halen are one of the world’s best-selling bands of all time, having sold more than 80 million records, charting the most number-one hits in the history of Billboard ‘s Mainstream Rock chart. Formed in Pasadena, California in 1972, they became a staple of the Los Angeles music scene during the mid-1970s, and upon its release, their self-titled first album was acclaimed as both a hard rock and heavy metal album, reaching No. 19 on the Billboard pop music charts; one of rock’s most commercially successful debuts. Ranked 7th on VH1’s list of the top 100 hard rock artists of all time, they are one of only five rock bands that have had two studio albums sell more than 10 million copies in the U.S. Their 6th studio album, 1984, that was the pinnacle of their commercial success. The album’s lead single, “Jump”, became an international hit and their only single to reach number one on the Billboard Hot 100. Blues sensation Kenny Wayne Shepherd will be supporting the band. 7:30 p.m. Tickets $13.50 - $143. Kelly Clarkson
MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheater September 15
On top of being a new mom and promoting her new album, Piece by Piece, Clarkson will also embark on a tour that stops in Tampa with singer-songwriter, Eric Hutchinson and a cappella sensations and Grammy Award winners, Pentatonix. 7:00 p.m. Tickets: $20-$99.50. Lou Reed’s Berlin
South Florida Museum September 18
Enjoy a Florida folk concert by Beartoe before a screening of Lou Reed’s Berlin, in which Lou Reed reteams with producers to stage live performances of the now classic release at venues across the globe. 6:30 p.m. Tickets: $7, $5 members. S. FL Museum is located at 201 10th St. W, Bradenton, FL. Luke Bryan
MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheater September 18
The country star makes his way back to Tampa, yet again, this time for the “Kick The Dust Up Tour.” Luke Bryan was a successful songwriter before his debut single ‘All My Friends Say’ became a hit in 2007. The Georgia-born singer wrote ‘Good Directions’ for Billy Currington as well as tracks for others, but it was clear he had too much talent and charisma to remain in the shadow of Music City’s biggest stars. Bryan’s breakout song was ‘Country Girl’ from 2011. The single and several televised live performances cleared his path to superstardom. Three singles from ‘Tailgates and Tanlines’ went Platinum, and in April 2013, he was named the ACM’s Entertainer of the Year. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $25.50 - $65.50. Rev. Barry & Funktastic Soul Featuring The Hellacious Horns
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall September 19
Free - Outdoor Event! Voted “Best Musical Group” in the 2015 Herald-Tribune Reader’s Choice Awards! This su-
per-tight 8-piece show band plays the best-loved funk/motown/soul & disco hits of the 60’s, 70’s & 80’s, complete with a 4 piece horn section! You’ll dance all night to the greatest hits of Earth Wind & Fire, Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, Kool & the Gang, James Brown and MORE. Come see the high-energy show that audiences all over the Suncoast are raving about! 5:00 p.m. Super Freestyle Explosion
Amalie Arena September 19
Eleven of the biggest Freestyle music legends of the 1980s will take the stage at 7:30 p.m. in what will be one of the biggest concerts of the year. Tampa audiences and Freestyle fans will be on their feet to see their favorite artists perform the biggest rhythmic radio dance hits that emanated in the late 80s out of Miami and spread like wild fire on radio throughout the country…and such songs are still in major rotation today. The stage will come alive with performances by: Stevie B., Taylor Dayne, Lisa Lisa, the original Cover Girls, Freestyle, Debbie Deb, Johnny O, Cynthia, Lil Suzy, Lisette Melendez and JJ Fad. Eleven acts! One night only! For more information visit www.freestyleexplosion. com. Tickets: $34.50 - $62.50 (Gold Circle VIP). Rodnay Carrington
The Lakeland Center September 19
Rodney Carrington has been making audiences laugh for almost twenty years with his unique brand of stand-up comedy. The country singer-songwriter has recorded eight major label comedy albums which have sold more than two million copies … two of which have been certified Gold. He recently started his own record label “Laughter’s Good” and released two albums under the new label in October 2014. Rodney re-released “C’Mon Laugh You Bastards” which features 3 new songs, as well as an album of all new material called “Laughter’s Good.” In addition to starting his own record label, Rodney started a new YouTube series in October 2014 called “Bit By Bit.” In the series, he releases new material one piece at a time on a weekly basis. 7:00 p.m. Tickets $25 - $179.75 VIP (The VIP package includes a premium seat and a meet and greet with Rodney Carrington.) Variety Monthly show
Temple Beth David September 20
Variety show featuring the Mikki Taylor-Behner and Jim Behner. 2:00 p.m. Tickets: Advance $13 per person/ $15 at the door, includes dessert and coffee. Temple Beth David is located at 13158 Antelope St., Spring Hill, FL. Dinner for Six
Gypsy Stage September 20
The comedy presented by Gypsy Stage follows a group of friends who, after too much wine at a dinner party, set out to produce a play they’d seen 20 years earlier and deemed “the greatest play ever.” But as they begin the production, they realize their youthful perceptions about the play may have been off. 5:00 p.m. Tickets: $12. Gypsy Stage is located at325 Main St., Dunedin, FL. For more information (727) 210-2783 or www.gypsystage.com. Billy Idol
Ruth Eckerd Hall September 24
SEPTEMBER 2015
Senior Voice America
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Entertainment Rock icon Billy Idol is bringing his King and Queens of the Underground Live world tour to Ruth Eckerd Hall! The London Souls will open the show. Billy Idol was an early architect of the sound, style and fury of punk rock. His lip-curling sneer and fistpumping persona vaulted him into the mainstream as one of MTV’s first megastars, making him one of the most recognizable faces in pop music, while selling out arenas everywhere he played. He has sold 40 million albums while scoring numerous platinum albums worldwide, nine top 40 singles in the U.S. and 10 in the U.K. including Dancing With Myself, White Wedding, Rebel Yell, Mony Mony, Eyes Without A Face, Flesh For Fantasy and Cradle Of Love. 8:00 p.m. Tickets: $53.25 **$150. (**$150 Dinner Package includes a premium seat, pre-show dinner and a voucher for free valet parking. Artist does not appear at dinner.) 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.
The play explores the struggles, shifting loyalties and unwavering hopes that come with having next to nothing in America. Contains strong language. 8:00 p.m. Tickets: $19, $15 students, $17 each groups of 10 or more. West Coast Players Theatre is located at 21905 U.S. 19 N, Clearwater, FL.
Janet Jackson
Capitol Theatre September 26
Amalie Arena September 24
Stepping Out Dinner/Dance Competition
The Lakeland Center September 25
The 6th Annual Stepping Out for Education is Polk County’s version of Dancing with the Stars. Six community celebrities are taught two ballroom dances by a professional partner, then perform them in front of judges. Sponsorships along with $1 votes cast for dancers to win the coveted “People’s Choice” Award, raise funds to support programs and services provided by the Polk Education Foundation. Visit polkeducationfoundation.org to learn more. 6:00 p.m.-6:45 p.m. cocktails with cash bar; 7:00 p.m. program and dinner. Tickets: $75. Delbert McClinton
Unbreakable World tour brings Janet Jackson, is one of the most influential entertainers of the modern era. Her music has won her 6 Grammy Awards, 2 Emmy Awards, a Golden Globe Award, a nomination for an Academy Award along with dozens of American Music Awards, MTV Video Music Awards, BET Awards and Billboard Music Awards. She has received accolades as an actor as well, including the NAACP Best Supporting Actor award. Janet is a published author, choreographer, dancer, businessperson, philanthropist and one of biggest-selling artists in popular music history. With sales of over 160 million records worldwide, Janet Jackson stands as one of the best-selling artists of all time. 8:00 p.m. Tickets: $46.25 - $126.25.
The Capitol Theatre welcomes back three-time Grammy award winner Delbert McClinton, one of the most respected figures in American roots music and an international star in the realms of blues and traditional music as he combines the genres into his own unique sound. Last year, Delbert released his 28th album Blind, Crippled And Crazy – a blend of R&B, country, blues and rock ‘n’ roll with humor, heart and roadhouse virtuosity. The album reunited Delbert with his long time friend and musical running partner Glen Clark, making these twelve songs the first that they have recorded as a duo since 1973. The album opener Been Around a Long Time sets a tone of self-deprecating humor, as does the album’s title. 8:00 p.m. Tickets are $50 - $60.
Good People
Go 6 Worship Concert
West Coast Players Theatre September 25
Pinellas Park Performing Arts Center
September 26
A Christian rock concert with local praise and worship bands including the Kenny Beers Band, Sevenfold/Mission 180, the Posse Band, Vanilla Bean, Friday Night Live Band and the Weller Band. Numerous local ministries will be represented in a non-denominational setting. 6:00 p.m. Tickets: $5 advance, $10 at the door. Pinellas Park Perf. Arts Ctr. is located at 4951 78th Ave. N., Pinellas Park, FL. Rays Summer Concert Series: Steve Aoki
Tropicana Field October 3
A free concert shortly following games. In addition to their game tickets, fans can watch the various acts from the field by purchasing field access passes for $15. 8:00 p.m. Price: Included with game’s ticket. Tropicana Field is located at 1 Tropicana Drive, St. Petersburg, FL. The Florida Orchestra
Straz Center October 2 Mahaffey Theatre October 3 Ruth Eckerd Hall October 4
Rachmaninoff: Piano Concerto No. 3 Copland: Symphony No. 3 Michael Francis, conductor Valentina Lisitsa, piano The Tampa Bay Times Masterworks series opens with new Music Director Michael Francis leading The Florida Orchestra in Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 3 featuring pianist Valentina Lisitsa. The program also includes Aaron Copland’s Symphony No. 3, hailed by many as the “Great American Symphony,” with its musical climax being the theme from Copland’s own Fanfare for the Common Man as a statement on the country’s post-war optimism. Arrive early to hear musical guests share inside stories about the music and the composers for all Masterworks concerts. Pre-concert conversations begin one hour before curtain time in the concert hall. For tickets and information www.floridaorchestra.org.
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
SEPTEMBER 2015
Senior to Senior Woman Seeking Man DBFC NS; 60 yrs old, 5’9 medium build in good health. Looking for BM C NS ages 55 – 70 yrs old for friendship; possible LTR who enjoys and appreciates life, their health and companionship. Tampa, FL (813) 8021360. DWF, retired, healthy, looking for eternal love. Must be honest, loyal, SOH, affectionate, tall, 60 -72. ISO gentleman for dining, karaoke, swimming, movies, getaways, casinos, concerts. No baggage and must have car. Tampa, FL (813) 515-5366. SWFNS, young looking 71, 5’2 128lbs, likes movies, walks, dining in or out, reading. ISO WM, Christian, similar interests, 60 – 65 yrs for LTR. Tampa (813) 362-2427. WDW Little Blonde, green eyes – been told I am cute, sweet and fun SOH and LTR call and we can talk and maybe meet for lunch. Holiday (727) 484-2205. SWF NS, ND looking for NS gentleman from 58-65 likes to walk, flea markets, dining out, relaxing at home, only sincere need reply. I am 60 plus, 5”2, 125lbs for LTR. Pasco County (813) 395-6129. DWFM young at heart 55yrs – old fashioned, honest, very sincere lady ISO sincere man that loves company, going out places and not ashamed to show your love. Call me. Tampa. (813) 802-5640. WD WF NS SOH 62 ISO WM NS 60 – 65 that is laid back, neat and clean person, love pets, I’m a laid back and clean person. Largo area or close. Not a good cook. (727) 333-7778 WF WD SOH like friend about the same age 73 – 78, animal lover, watch out for each other, go for walks, short trips, dancing. I’m German tired of being alone. Please give me a call. Lakeland-Winterhaven. (863) 686-4742. WF ISO WM – Early 70’s SOH, educated HWP No facial hair – good common sense, honest, healthy and clean. No wise guys. No jail birds. Just friends like years ago. Only Tampa. (813) 951-1900. D W F NS SD 62, ISO LTR, must have SOH, loyal, honest, enjoy dining out, bingo, flea markets, movies, romantic walks on beach or staying home. Must love animals. Tampa. (813) 270-2932. SWF NS SD 60’s ISO active, healthy, caring SOH M 58- 75. I am spunky, kind, considerate, good attitude. I like walks, outdoors, music, dancing, just enjoying each other’s company. Lets live, love, laugh. North Tampa Area. (813) 312-7647. W W F, 62, 5’8”, XL, NS, ND, honest, pretty, professional ISO LTR 58 – 67 degreed, like reading, movies, art, dining out, travel. St. Pete (727) 545-9058.
man Seeking WOMan SWM NS ND enjoys healthy lifestyle ISO SWF for LTR romantic partner, life is better when shared. I am easy going, dependable and lonely. Call me. St. Pete (727) 5014093. I am a lonely single male, looking for a lonely woman to share the good life and times. Largo. (630) 201-5862. NS ND H Retired 71 yrs old looking for a good lady to make a home. I have a nice apartment. I don’t like women with tattoos. Brandon (813) 900-4861 NS M W 155 lbs looking for LTR, dining - Tampa Bap-
Senior to Senior Abbreviations M: Male F: Female S: Single D: Divorced WD: Widowed W: White B: Black H: Hispanic J: Jewish
Meet that Someone Special with a FREE listing right here in
Senior to Senior
C: Christian ISO: In Search Of LTR: Long Term Relationship NS: Non-Smoker ND: Non-Drinker SD: Social Drinker SOH: Sense of Humor
SWM 67 Retired Ohio Teacher ISO a retired, trim, traveler, dancer, walker, financially comfortable, hugger, thrift shopper, positive, 55 – 67 WF. Largo – St Pete. (410) 215-5512. Naturist DWM 73 5’10” 220lbs neat preppy traveled degreed. ISO younger shapely F to honor and hang-out with at Pasco naturist resorts. Coffee first. All amiable skin colors. Land O’ Lakes. (904) 229-9082. W M D 5’9 – 175lbs, 65 seeks companion 55 to 65 NS – SD Pinellas Park, FL for dating and warm relationship – dinner and cuddle. Pinellas Park (727) 460-4113. M NS, SD seeking a nice lady in her 70’s or 80’s in good health, I’m 78 and lonesome. In good health, romantic, passionate about life. Prefer Tampa. (813) 654-0164. SWM NS ND enjoys healthy lifestyle ISO SWF for LTR romantic partner, life is better when shared. I am easy going, dependable and lonely. Call me. St. Pete (727) 501-4093.
friend Seeking friend DWFM 55 ISO a good friend to do things with – church, out to eat, shopping or just company, drinking ice tea. It’s so lonely alone. Please call. Tampa (813) 8025640. WF WD SOH like friend about the same age 73 – 78, animal lover, watch out for each other, go for walks, short trips, dancing. I’m German tired of being alone. Please give me a call. Lakeland-Winterhaven. (863) 686-4742. WM ISO WM for friendship. I am honest, friendly and sincere. Like mostly anything. Tampa. (706) 3613484. Help, M, F, S, ISO, NS, who would be interested in a yard or garage sale at your home. Clearwater or St. Pete preferred. Sept, Oct, Nov. (727) 319-8899.
tist Church, only sincere need reply. Tampa (813) 215-1366. SWM 58, 185lbs, 5”11, I enjoy fishing, reading, tv, cooking and yard, live alone, own house, native, raised on Snell Isle, two adult sisters, Army Veteran, never married, two adult daughters, one married, mother, love family. St. Pete (727) 249-7494. Call me to talk about happy times, S, Kelt, VirSenior to Senior™ ile, 5”11, 170lbs, grandpa, Mail to: Senior Voice America healthy, honorable, sciencebased thinker, NS, ND, No P.O. BOX 1379, Lutz, FL 33548-1379 druggies or bullies. Listens, Email: sr2sr@seniorvoiceamerica.com chooses to enjoy positive, fun, loving, happy, content Fax: (813) 422-7966 times. St. Pete. (727) 2350166. Hello – S B M 50. I’m a good person in shape. I like to exercise and have fun. ISO W M 40-60’s in shape for friendship. Tarpon Springs. (727) 481-4948.
EMAIL: sr2sr@seniorvoiceamerica.com
SEPTEMBER 2015
Senior Voice America
Page 23
From MEDICARE Page 1
MEDICARE SUPPLEMENTAL/ “Medigap”
Pays for payment gaps in Original Medicare (co-pays, etc.) Provided by Independent Health Insurance Companies (costs vary) All benefits have to be the exact same, regardless of differing costs (shop diligently) Enrollment Period: Up to 6 months following Medicare Part A & B
MEDICARE ADVANTAGE PLANS “HMO /Managed Care” Part A & B Services covered (co-payments may apply) May reimburse for part or all of Part B premiums May include Prescription Drug Coverage May include vision, hearing, dental, travel, etc. Must use in-network Primary Care Physician and providers May charge high daily co-payments for hospital, Skilled Nursing Centers, and some specialty treatments and surgeries Requires authorization by Insurance Case Manager or Primary Care Physician for specialty physicians Requires authorization for home health services One year mandatory trial period. (May disenroll if relocating). Enrollment Period: Oct. 15-Dec. 7 Disenrollment Period: Jan. 1-Feb. 14 Some seniors and families have found out the hard way that not all Advantage Plans are always “advantageous” for them. The insurance companies are in the business of making and saving money. So they receive money from our government to provide services Medicare offers to their beneficiaries, at a profit. They also have extremely large marketing budgets and sales tactics that can be very confusing to seniors and their families. First tip: The insurance company with the larger marketing budget is not necessarily going to be the company that provides the most benefits. Florida offers, through the Department of Elder Affairs, the SHINE program (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders). Contact SHINE at 1(800) 963-5337. Their volunteer counselors offer expertise on Medicare, Medicaid, Prescription Assistance, and Long-Term Care Planning & Insurance. Some Medicare Advantage plans reimburse some or all of the Medicare Part B premium, and many seniors struggling to survive on Social Security and/or shrinking pensions are often tempted to save money by joining one. Furthermore, if a beneficiary is in good health, they may receive many offers from different companies. The company benefits when their members are in good health, as they lose money by having to authorize costly hospital and specialty treatments. In a nutshell, Medicare Advantage Plans are for healthy people. So if you’re in reasonably good health (no hospital stays, serious diseases, chronic diseases, etc.) they can be an affordable option, especially if there are no large assets or pensions to live on. Seniors living strictly off of their Social Security income and/or Social Security disability income may qualify for their local or state community Medicaid. Florida Community Medicaid program will sometimes pay what Original Medicare does not pay in co-payments, deductibles and prescription drug coverage. Many seniors meet the poverty requirements to be eligible for Medicaid in their state but have never applied. To be directed to your local state website, visit www.medicaid.gov. ENROLLMENT is coordinated by the Social Security Administration (SSA), or Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) Initial Enrollment Period: 7 months prior to 65th birth month General Enrollment Period: Jan. 1-March 31. Coverage starts July 1. Annual Election Period/Fall Open Enrollment: Oct. 15-Dec. 7. Changes effective Jan. 1. For those already in Medicare, join or switch Medicare Advantage Plans, return to Original Medicare, or add, drop or switch Medicare Prescription drug plans. Medicare Advantage Disenrollment Period: Jan. 1-Feb. 14. Unenroll from any Medicare Advantage Plan and return to Original Medicare with optional standalone drug coverage. Karyn Rizzo, owner of Elite Marketing & Consulting, has more than 20 years’ experience working in the healthcare industry. She is the author of the bestselling “Aging in America: Navigating our Healthcare System.” The expanded version is now available, including helpful tips on choosing physicians, Medicare and Medicaid plans, senior housing, assisted living centers, rehab/nursing centers, mental health programs, and accessing benefits for retired military and their spouses, as well as in-depth coverage on how to prevent fraud, neglect and abuse of the elderly. Visit www.agingguidebook1. com, email agingguidebook@gmail.com or call (727) 452-1300 for more information.
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
SEPTEMBER 2015