Lifestyles After 50 Southwest March 2013 edition

March2013•Southwest•FREE www.lifestylesafter50fl.com

Spring is in the Air...Move Over, Annie OakleyWomenCarryingGuns

Veterans:Bataan March:An Untold Story

Travel:Whitewater Rafting

& Bluegrass

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Lifestyles After 50 • March 2013 • page 2


The Cosmo Girl Was One Smart CookieDear Readers,

“After you’re older, two

things are possibly more important than any others: health and money.” A perceptive statement. Quick! Who said it? Hints: The author of the statement died at age 90 last year. Contrary to the way we were raised in the 40s and 50s, she was among the very public females who believed that women were just as smart and capable as men and could achieve anything they wanted. In the 60s she was one of the fi rst women to break through the glass ceiling in the male-dominated business world. Who was it? Helen Gurley Brown, author of the 1962 book Sex and the Single Girl. The younger generation—if they knew of Helen Gurley Brown at all—thought of her as a joke. Just an anorexic old woman who was pictured when she was younger working from a pink silk-walled and leopard-carpeted offi ce. But for an older generation, Helen Gurley-Brown was a the person who, more than anyone else, personifi ed freedom from the personal and professional boundar-ies set by the women of her day. Decades before there was Sex and the City (which I’ve never watched), there was Sex and the Single Girl in 1962 (which I never read). Still,

I was aware that she shocked the world by publishing attitudes about women and sex that were as liberating as the birth control pill had been to their physical bodies when it was introduced in 1960. In her writing career with Cosmopolitan magazine, she became a powerhouse of business acumen as she put forth her ideas of career advancement for women. What I hadn’t realized until her obituaries is that she had a world of things to say about life and work which are sensible and realistic. Take this for example:

“Never fail to know that if you are doing all the talking, you are boring somebody.”

It pretty much says it all, doesn’t it? We’re often bored by the talkers around us.

Another quote: “I hope I have convinced you that the

only thing that separates suc-cessful people from the ones who aren’t is the willingness

to work very, very hard.” Helen Gurley Brown’s father died in Arkansas when she was ten (1932) and her mother moved her and her sister (paralyzed from polio) to California. Later Brown wrote: “I never liked the looks of the life that was programmed for me—ordinary, hillbilly and poor.” In high school, Brown set about working harder than anyone else, went to college and worked secretarial jobs before she became the fi rst woman

to hold a copywriter position at an advertising agency. She was a hard-working career girl in a man’s world.

“My success was not based so much on any great intelligence but on great common sense.”

As editor of Cosmopolitan magazine she changed the Good Housekeeping type magazine into a publication which, at its height, had three million circula-tion in 27 countries. She was obviously onto something as a business woman. How did her common sense play into that success? Here’s one example:

“The faster you get back to people, the less brilliant you have to be.”

Wow! Talk about common sense. How much time have you spent wait-ing on phone calls in the last month? And who cared? She did in her day.

“Dear Pussycat.” Have trouble remembering names? The older I get, yes, the more often I can’t for the life of me remember people’s names. Even as a young career girl, Helen Gurley Brown simplifi ed her life by calling everyone “Pussycat,” making them feel loved and desirable and they loved her back. I think the lady was on to some-thing! Her word—pussycat—doesn’t fi t my personality, but maybe I can come up with something to be a ge-neric catchall, an endearing loveable title to use when I see you without having to remember your name.Any suggestions?

Janice Doyle, Editor

Published monthly by News Connection U.S.A., Inc

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Around Town: Events In MarchThrough March 13 The

Marvelous Wonderettes, with songs from 1958 at Herb Strauss Theater, Sanibel Island. Tickets: $25 to $36. Call (239) 395-0900.

Through March 23 Sanibel Music Festival, musicians

from around the world. Weekends at Sanibel Congregational Church. $35. Phone (239) 344-7025.

Through April 6 The Sound of Music on stage at Broadway

Palm Theater, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Ft Myers, Tickets at (239) 278-4422or broadwaypalm.com.

7 and 14 Workshop on Florida Domicile Considerations

at Merrill Lynch Office, 13250 University Center Blvd., Fort Myers. Pre-registration required at (239) 432-6842 or [email protected].

9 SW Florida Symphony’s Masterworks Series performs

works by Shostakovich, Dvorak

and Galanta at BB Mann Hall. (239) 481-4849 or swflso.org.

9 Naples Philharmonic Orchestra concert at Shell Point Village.

Hear Prokofiev, Tomasi’s Trombone Concerto and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 2. $36. Call (239) 454-2067.

9 – 10 55th Annual Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival. Parade,

vendors, seafood at Lynn Hall Memorial Park, 950 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach. (239) 463-6986.

9 – 10 Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing weekend. Saturday presentations

and hands-on skills and practice ses-sions. Sunday fishing adventures and filleting. Matlacha Community Park. $49. Info at (954) 475-9068 or ladiesletsgofishing.com.

10 Sunday Sunset Concert Series in the Ampitheater at Alliance for

the Arts. Take lawn chairs, picnic, cooler, friends. 5 p.m. Members/$15; General Admission $20. Call (239) 939-2787.

15 “The Wisdom of Age – Honoring the Female Spirit”

is the theme of the Grande Dames Tea, presented by PACE Center for Girls of Lee County, that will honor three outstanding women from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Broadway Palm Dinner Theater, 1380 Colonial Blvd. $50. RSVP at pacecenter.org/lee or (239) 425-2366, ext. 25. Attendees are encouraged to wear their favorite party hat.

15 Evening With the Authors, a mingle and dine event

with Southwest Florida Reading Festival’s Best-Selling Authors. Presented by Lee County Library System. Reception and dinner. $45. Royal Palm Yacht Club, 2360 West 1st St., Fort Myers. (239) 533-4826.

17 Bluegrass in the Theater presented by the Acoustic

Music Society of SWFL. 2 p.m. $7/door. Foulds Theatre. Call (239) 939-2787 for details.

19 “Step Into Spring” Fashion Show & Luncheon to benefit

Candlelighters of SW Florida (assisting childhood and adolescent cancer pa-tients). Forest Country Club, South Fort Myers. Modeling by cancer survivors, siblings or parents. (239) 432-2223.

20 through April 13 The Fantastiks, musical love story

at ArtStage Studio Theatre. $25 to $45 at Florida Repertory Theatre, 2267 First St., Fort Myers. (239) 332-4488.

26 Florida Yards and Neighborhoods Class. Learn principles for

proper planting and maintenance of your yard. Noon to 4 p.m. $30. At Eco-Living Center, Rutenberg Park, 6490 South Pointe Blvd., Fort Myers. Call (239) 533-7504 to pre-register.

Send Around Town news to News Connection USA, Inc., P.O. Box 638, Seffner, FL 33583; fax (813) 651-1989 or email [email protected] by March 10 for April event.


Move Over, Annie Oakley: Women and GunsBY TRACIE SCHMIDT

As I stood there with the gun in my hand, I couldn’t help but notice

how shaky my aim was. I was ner-vous, of course—it was my first time. “Grip it with both hands. Move your thumbs a bit down and to the left. That’s it. Now lean forward some. You want to be in control when it recoils,” instructed Dr. Gerald Colbert, a certifi ed NRA instructor and former naval offi cer. It was a “dry fi ring,” part of the First Steps Pistol Course I was taking in Sarasota. One by one, students moved up to the front of the class, aimed at a target and pulled the trigger without ammunition, just to get a feel for how the gun handles. I was surprised by how light it was, by how easy it was to pull the trigger. That’s not all that surprised me. Every student that picked up the gun was female. “The class is typically around 45 percent women,” said Colbert. But he said it wasn’t unusual for him to see a class full. It’s a trend he’s noticed has been growing over the years, especially in response to local crime. Toni Parsons, 81, was taking the class with me. “My son is very much into gun shooting, and he took me shooting a few times. I want to improve at it, but basically it’s self defense,” she said. “I was always afraid to have a gun because I thought that, being a little old lady, a person would get the gun from me and use it on me. That’s partly why I’m taking the course, so I can become profi cient in using it and feel that I can use it as protection.” She’s not alone—women over 50 are a growing demographic for gun permits, according to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Division of Licensing. The number of annual concealed weapon license applica-tions for men and women rose from 28,618 in 1999 to 151,883 in 2012. In the month of January 2013 alone, 77,754 women aged 51 – 65 obtained a conceal carry permit—more than women from any other age group.

Put ‘em up? Taken that way, one would start to think that we boomer women are just waiting for the tumbleweed to blow by at high noon; but that’s hardly the case. I put forth the question: Why arm yourself? About thirty women over 50, from different states, political affi liations and walks of life, responded back. The overwhelm-ing answer was self defense. Trish Shultz, 54, an Independent from Ellenton, said, “I’m single. I just think that the world has become unpredictable. People just want to protect their family and themselves. I don’t honestly agree with guns because it seems the killings have gone up, but I know I need a gun for self protection.” Earletta Maples, 71, a Democrat from Michigan said, “I carried a concealed weapon when I was a schoolteacher in downtown Detroit, Michigan, in the early 70s. I only had to pull it one time.” One night when she was stopped at a red light, someone approached her car. “He was looking in my window, and when I pulled my gun, he backed up all the way to the other side of the street.” Others carry for sport. Mary Sorge, 66, goes to the shooting range with her husband in Illinois and Arizona. Joann Altergott belongs to the Conto Wisconsin Gun Club. “I shoot mostly for recreation,” she says. According to the National Sporting Goods association, more women are participating in target shooting than ever. From 2001 to 2011, the number increased from 3.3 million women to just over 5 million. For hunting, it’s up almost 42 percent. A few women own a gun strictly for animal control. “I have a .22, and the

only thing I do with it...well, I have woodchucks that need to be gone,” said Margaret Dubois from Connecticut.

The Debate Of the women I interviewed, feelings about gun ownership varied. A little over half were against owning or using a gun personally, but not in favor of denying others the right to do so if they chose. Overall, most were against weapons like assault rifl es, and in favor of background checks before weapons can be issued. Those who were for gun ownership believed in the right to self defense, their constitutional right to bear arms, and that stricter gun laws only make it harder for law-abiding citizens to obtain fi rearms, while criminals fi nd a way to acquire them elsewhere.. Mary L.*, a Republican, worked for the army for 32 years and has been around guns her whole life. “My stepfather had a gun. I’ve never lived in a house where there wasn’t a gun. I de-cided to carry one for self defense,” she said. “My fi rst husband was in security, and I have his .38, and I believe in the NRA. Who wants to live in a house where you can’t protect yourself?” Those that were against believed that the number of guns in the populace is out of control and that the number of gun-related accidents, suicides and confl ict escalations far outweigh the number of people saved by using a gun in self defense. Deborah Healy of Sarasota said, “There are too many guns out there, and there’s just no reason for anyone to have the big, automatic assault rifl es. The police offi cers never know what they are going to face out there. My cousin’s a police offi cer, and I hear about all the kids that get shot accidentally—there’s no reason for it.” Still others believe that the issue might be resolved with non-lethal crime deterrents, like tasers, mace and so forth. Alice Valentine, 65, of Sarasota, is a fi rm believer in self-defense of the four-legged variety. She said: “I’m more into German shepherds than guns. They keep me safe and give you love back.”

Having women weigh in on the debate yielded a familiar question: Does arming more people make a society safer or deadlier? Despite strong arguments on both sides, it’s an issue that the nation has yet to resolve.

After the Class At the end of the class, all of us ladies headed off to the fi ring range to practice with live ammunition. Toni Parsons was up fi rst, and after a few minutes of applying what she learned in class, the 81-year-old came back with a target peppered with holes. “I want to bring it home and put it on my door—don‘t dare to enter here: sharpshooter inside!” she said as she held it up. I asked her how she felt after the class. “I feel safer knowing how to use a gun,” she answered. When my turn came, my experience was a bit different. I felt safer know-ing how to use a gun as well—but safer from the gun, not necessarily from an assailant. Knowing how to fi re it, handle it, store it, and how it worked gave me peace of mind should I ever fi nd myself confronted with one, defensively or otherwise. In this country, everyone is given the right to bear arms to defend ourselves and our fellow citizens, but what we are not given is the responsibility and the competence to do it safely and wisely. That’s up to the individual. Firing a gun for the fi rst time, know-ing that I had the power to kill another human being, made me want to be a more responsible person. For all of the women I interviewed, the decision to own a gun was a personal one. All I have to say is: look out, bad guys, Toni Parsons’ in town.”

*requested name be changed

Dr. Gerald Colbert gives Toni Parsons instruction on aiming a firearm.

Parsons presents her target after finishing the class.


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It’s the Irish In Me, B’gorryWhatever our roots, St. Patrick’s

Day and the wearin’ of the green are a part of March. Be sure to wear the green and enjoy these:

Top Irish American Films:In America – an Irish family in New York City

Boondock Saints – twins and the Boston criminal element

Far and Away – great fiddle music and Tom Cruise/Nicole Kidman in a weak immigrant story

P.S. I Love You – the old Irish sadness and great actresses (Hilary Swank and Kathy Bates)

Yankee Doodle Dandy – James Cagney as first generation Irish American George M. Cohan

The Sullivans – five Irish American brothers aboard the USS Juneau in WWII.

A Good Irish Joke: The Fame of Red Adair At the height of the 1991 Gulf War, the expertise of Red Adair (that well known fire fighter) was called upon to go out to the Gulf and put out the oil rig fires. On his way his plane landed in Ireland for an overnight stop, so Red took advantage and visited the local bar for a pint of the black stuff. On entering the bar, two old Irish boys witnessed him walk in and one said to the other. “Isn’t that Red Adair?” The other replied, “No.” The old boy then said, “I’m sure it is and I’m so sure that I will bet you a pint if I am wrong.” The doubting one said, “Ok” and they both went over to Red. The one said, “Are you Red Adair?” to which Red said he was. The doubting Irishman said, “Are you still dancing with Ginger Rogers?”

How To Say Hello Greetings in Ireland tend to vary

from place to place. In the southeast it might be “Well, boy.” Up north you might be greeted with “Bout ye.” In parts of Dublin, it could be “Howyiz,” while in County Cork you might be confronted with “Howsitgoin’ boy?” A more rural equivalent is “How’s she cuttin’?” A suitable reply is “Grand altogether” if you are in good form, or “Survivin’” if not.

Two Irishman Meet a Swiss Tourist A Swiss man, on holiday in Dublin, needed directions. He was standing outside Davy Byrne’s pub when he saw two youths walking by so he stops them and asks, “Entschuldigung, koennen Sie Deutsch sprechen?”

The two lads look at each other blankly and stare back at him.

“Excusez-moi, parlez vous Français?” He tries.

The two continue to stare.

“Parlare Italiano?” Still absolutely no response from the two lads. “Hablan ustedes Espanol?” The Dublin lads remain totally silent. The Swiss guy walks off extremely disappointed and downhearted that he had not been understood. One of the boys turns to the second and says, “Y’know, maybe we should learn a foreign language!” “Why?” says the youth, “That guy knew four languages, and it didn’t do him any good!”

An Irish BlessingMay the love and protection

Saint Patrick can giveBe yours in abundance

As long as you live.


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Maturity in Motion: So Much More Than EntertainmentBY CY FRANK

What lives in Southwest Florida, consists of 60 legs, is entertain-

ing, pleasant to the eye and an asset to the community? Additionally, they are an inspiration to all senior citizens ! These 60 legs belong to a team of 30 attractive ladies 50 to 75 years of age. They sing, dance and do comic routines performing in or near our community since 2006. Known as “The Calendar Girls,” they originally started as a halftime show for a local basketball team that had a very short life span. Katherine Shortledge, spokeswoman for the group, says, “Shortly thereafter, the dance team grew and incorporated as a not-for-profit LLC representing over 1000 years of dancing.” The dance numbers, costumes and songs, including sing-a-longs, are profes-sional and represent various themes from showgirls, cowgirls and beauty queens to Marilyn Monroe. All monies collected for shows are distributed to various charities.

As they say, practice makes perfect, and the Calendar Girls are no exception. They devote two full days per week to perfecting their dance routines before each performance. 130 shows are given each year, which translates to about 13,000 to 15,000 attendees per year. Katherine says, “All the practice, coordination, booking and shows—we are all volunteers.”

A moment is taken during every performance to recognize veterans and raise awareness as well as cash to provide “a miracle with a tail” to an American veteran. Paws For Patriots is a part of the Southeastern Guide School of Palmetto which trains dogs for visually-impaired veterans. Training each dog for two years costs about $60,000 in donations. Katherine says, “The Calendar Girls are very proud of the fact that they have pro-vided the money needed for the train-ing of nine dogs, or over $540,000.” Paws For Patriots is not the only organization The Calendar Girls raise money for. They have planned and worked with various organizations including schools (many times with the guide dogs) that are considering or planning fundraising events for charitable causes. Both Shortledge and Linda Floyd have been members of the team since its origin in 2005. Linda says, “For me, it has been the ability to pay it

forward in the community, make new friends and help our heroes through the Paws for Patriots progam. It warms my heart every time we dance for the veterans and have our puppies-in-training in attendance. I think Lady Gaga hit the nail on the head when she said ‘I am changing the world one sequin at a time.’ This is what I feel the Calendar Girls are doing.” The Calendar Girls serve as a role model for women of all ages and prove that age is only a state of mind. “Maturity In Motion” says it all and is a phrase they have created and use as their motto. For all of them, it’s about the glamour, the dancing and raising money for Paws For Patriots. Other ladies interested should call about periodic open auditions. Call Katherine at (239) 850-6010 for information. If your group is interested in having the Calendar Girls make an appearance at an event, go to [email protected].

The Calendar Girls strike a pose in support of Southeastern Guide Dogs.

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March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013March 2013

Charlotte CountyCharlotte CountyCharlotte CountyCharlotte CountyCharlotte CountyCharlotte CountyCharlotte CountyCharlotte CountyCharlotte CountyCharlotte CountyCharlotte CountyCharlotte CountyCharlotte CountyCharlotte CountyCharlotte CountyCharlotte CountyCharlotte CountyCharlotte CountyCharlotte CountyCharlotte CountyCharlotte CountyCharlotte CountyCharlotte CountyCharlotte County

Charlotte County!

15 Marcille Wallis & Friends in Concert,

5 – 8 p.m., center stage.

16 Get Your Green On Expo, 10 a.m. – 8

p.m. Learn about green building. Info: (941) 575-3067.

18 Four Leaf Strum-mers Banjo Group,

11:30.

21 Military Heritage Museum will host a reception for women who have served in

the military or as “Rosie the Riveters”, 4 - 6 p.m.

23 “Salty Paws 4th Annual Easter Bone Hunt, 11 am-1 pm. Call 941 575-7599 for details.

Fishermen’s Village is on the waterfront in

8 and 9 Spring Bazaar. Arts, crafts and more.

9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

13 Spring-O Bingo Extravaganza. Up to

$2,450 in prizes! Dinner at 4:30, Bingo at 6:30. Prices: just Bingo/$25, or both/$35.

16 Elvis, The Concert Experience. $20.

($15 pre-purchase).

28 Back Home Again - A Tribute to

John Denver. Starring Tom Becker of the New Christy Minstrels. 7 p.m. $18.

All events at Cultural Center of Charlotte County, 2280 Aaron Street, Port Charlotte. Tickets, times and info: (941) 625-4175.

17 Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with

a dinner of Irish favorites at Charlotte Cultural Center from 4 – 7 p.m. $17 per person. Or buy both and save -- after dinner, see Tommy O’s St. Patrick’s Day concert for only $30. Info: (941) 625-4175.

16 St. Patrick’s Eve Celebration.

Travel ‘N Riverboat Show, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., 5 p.m. parade with Lee County Pipes & Drums. Live music with Emily Ann Thompson Band from 6 – 8 p.m., center stage. Food specials. Fishermen’s Vil-lage. Info: (941) 575-3067.

888-670-0040

Call for Special Rates and Marketing Packages for the Best of Charlotte County!

• 13th Annual Charlotte County Fit For Life Senior Games, Select dates/venues throughout March. Olympic-style events focus on athletic competition, camaraderie and recreational

opportunities. Tennis, shuffleboard, basketball, track and field, cornhole, bowling, table tennis, cycling and more.

Qualifier for State Championships. To participate or spectate, visit charlottecountyfl.com or call (941) 627-1074.

• Community Beach Cleanup, Mar. 9. 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Meet up at Pavilion #2 on Englewood Beach at Chadwick

Park, 2100 N. Beach Road, Englewood. Hot dog lunch served as thanks for the helping hand! (941) 681-3742.

• Bayshore Live Oak Park Community Dog Show: Mar. 23. 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Parade your pup in the amphitheatre. All dogs on leashes welcome. Prizes galore! 50/50 drawing.

Music and food/drink vendors. See charlottecountyfl.com for $5 entry forms. Bayshore Park: (941) 627-1628 ext. 101.

Helping Hands• R.S.V.P. (Retired & Senior Volunteer Program): (941) 613-2299.

• Meals on Wheels/Friendship Cafe Dining Sites: (941) 255-0723.• Elder Helpline of Southwest Florida: 1-800-398-4233.

Senior Centers and Resources• Senior Friendship Centers: (941) 255-0723 or friendshipcenters.org.

• Senior Choices of Southwest Florida: 1-866-413-5337 or srchoices.org.• O.C.E.A.N. (Our Charlotte Elder Affairs Network): (941) 235-4500 or ocean-fl.org.

, Select dates/venues throughout March. Olympic-style events Select dates/venues throughout March. Olympic-style events

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Top 6 Saint Patrick’s Day ParadesFor the Irish and those that love a

good party, here are the biggest, greenest and most Irish of all Saint Patrick’s Day Parades in the U.S.

1. New York City sees 150,000 marching band members, bag pipers and members of the Irish community parade along Fifth Avenue.2. Chicago holds its parade the Saturday before March 17. Look for the Chicago River to run Irish green. 3. Savannah draws 400,000 people to celebrate Saint Patrick’s contribution to the Christian faith. Check out two days of live Celtic music, games,

competitions, food and plenty of Irish beverages. On-the-day festivities include early morning mass, followed by a parade passing fountains running green!4. The huge ethnic community in Boston goes all out with parades,

Irish comedy, theatre and concerts and a 20-site Irish Heritage Trail.5. San Francisco goes green with a parade and all-day festival at the Civic Center Plaza. Eat your corned beef and cabbage here!6. Head for the Quad Cities for the USA’s only interstate parade. Held on a Saturday, the parade is cheered from Rock Island, Illinois across the Mississippi River to Davenport, Iowa by tens of thousands of onlookers. (WorldWeb.com)

or the Irish and those that love a good party, here are the biggest,

St. Patrick’s Day Parade, New York City

ethnic community in Boston goes all out with parades,

Fountains run green in Savannah, GA.

Jazz It Up In Charlotte CountyGo for the show or stay for the jam

session—these jazz events are sure to please. Call (941) 766-9422 or visit ccjazz.org for more information.

18 The CC Jazz Society presents Dixieland Jazz Night featuring

Bob Leary and his Sextet at The Culture Center of Charlotte County, 2280 Aaron St., Port Charlotte start-ing at 7 p.m. Admission is $20.

24 The annual Charlotte County Jazz Society picnic in the

Bayshore Live Oak Park from 1 to 4 p.m. The rhythm section will feature Joe Delaney on piano, Don Mopsick on bass, Phil Tirino on drums, and Fred Capitelli. You will need to bring your own food, beverages (no glass containers) and chairs. There are some picnic tables available. Bring an instrument and join the “jam” session. Free.


Diabetes And Eye Health: A Closer LookThose with diabetes should take

a good look at their eye health. That’s the word from the American Diabetes Association. It reports that nearly 26 million people in the United States have diabetes and 12,000 – 24,000 people lose their sight because of the disease each year. The American Optometric Association (AOA) encourages Americans with diabetes to schedule annual, dilated eye examinations to help detect and prevent eye and vision disorders that could lead to blindness.

Diabetic Eye Disorders People with diabetes are at a signifi-cantly higher risk for developing eye diseases including glaucoma, cataracts and diabetic retinopathy, one of the most serious sight-threatening complications of diabetes. Consider the following:• Those with diabetes are 40 percent

more likely to suffer from glaucoma than people without diabetes.

• Those with diabetes are 60 percent more likely to develop cataracts. People with diabetes also tend to get them at a younger age and have them progress faster. With cataracts, the eye’s clear lens clouds, blocking light and interfering with normal vision.

Diabetic retinopathy is a condition that causes progressive damage to the retina, the light-sensitive lining at the back of the eye. Damage to the tiny blood vessels that nourish the retina causes swelling of retinal tissue and clouding of vision. If left untreated, diabetic retinopathy can cause blind-ness. Since early warning signs of diabetic eye and vision disorders are often subtle or undetected, the AOA recommends that people—especially African Americans and Hispanics, who have a higher risk of developing diabetes—look for initial signs and

contact a doctor of optometry if any of the following symptoms are present: sudden blurred or double vision, trouble reading or focusing on near-work, eye pain or pressure, a notice-able aura or dark ring around lights or illuminated objects, visible dark spots in vision or images of flashing lights.

Eye Health Tips In addition to having yearly, comprehensive eye exams, the AOA offers the following tips to help prevent or slow the development of diabetic eye diseases:

• Take prescribed medication as directed.

• Keep glycohemoglobin test results (“A1c,” or average blood sugar level) consistently under 7 percent.

• Stick to a healthy diet that includes omega-3s, fresh fruits and vegetables.

• Exercise regularly.

• Control high blood pressure.

• Avoid alcohol and smoking. For more information on eye health, visit www.aoa.org. (NAPSA)

Health


Planning Ahead Eases Grief for Loved OnesThough it’s not a topic most of us

want to think about, planning for what happens after your death and understanding your options can reduce the stress on grieving loved ones. The death of someone you care for, to-gether with wanting to make the right decision, leaves many families over-whelmed. Often these decisions must be made when a family is grieving and is least prepared to deal with them. My name is Sam Harmon. I am a Pre-planning Advisor with the Dignity Memorial® network, North America’s largest provider of funeral, cremation and cemetery services. I can help you make a plan now, helping to assure those left behind that your wishes are being honored. I work to educate people on the benefits of prearranging your funeral. We can set a time to help you decide what type of service you want, if it

should have religious elements, if it should be intimate or large, and if there are any unique requests that can be accommodated. We can also discuss purchasing cemetery property and all the options avail-able for memorialization and disposition of cremated remains. If you choose to fund your prearrangement, you can lock in today’s prices for products and services that likely will be more expensive in the future. I am available to meet by appoint-ment in your home or at the location of your choice. For more informa-tion about funeral planning, contact me at [email protected] or (239) 822-0185.

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BY FRED CICETTI

Q. I remember having lots of fevers as a kid, but now

that I’m older, I don’t get them like I used to. What gives?

The immune system doesn’t func-tion as efficiently in older adults

as it does in younger people. The body’s fever response to infection is not always automatic in elderly people. More than 20 percent of adults over age 65 who have serious bacte-rial infections do not have fevers. This brings us to germs, which are defined as microbes that cause disease. Infectious diseases caused by mi-crobes are the leading cause of death. Microbes are microscopic organ-isms that are everywhere. Some microbes cause disease. Others are essential for health. Most microbes belong to one of four major groups: bacteria, viruses, fungi or protozoa. Bacteria are made up of only one cell. Less than 1 percent of them cause diseases in humans. Harmless bacteria live in human intestines,where they help to digest food. Foods such as yogurt and cheese are made using bacteria. Some bacteria produce dangerous poisons. Botulism, a severe form of food poisoning, is caused by toxins from bacteria. However, several vac-cines are made from bacterial toxins. Viruses are among the smallest microbes.They consist of one or more molecules that contain the virus’s

genes surrounded by a protein coat. Most viruses cause disease. They invade normal cells, then multiply. There are millions of types of fungi.The most familiar ones are mush-rooms, yeast, mold and mildew. Some live in the human body, usually with-out causing illness. In fact, only about half of all types of fungi cause dis-ease in humans. Penicillin and other antibiotics, which kill harmful bacteria in our bodies, are made from fungi. Protozoa are a group of micro-scopic one-celled animals. In hu-mans, protozoa usually cause disease. Some protozoa, like plankton, are food for marine animals. Malaria is caused by a protozoan parasite. We become immune to germs naturally and artificially. Before birth, we received natural immunity from our mothers. Once we are exposed to a germ, we develop natural im-munity to it from special cells in our immune systems. Artificial im-munity can come from vaccines. Handwashing is a simple and effective way to stop the transmission of germs. Health care experts recommend scrub-bing your hands vigorously for at least 15 seconds with soap and water. It is especially important to wash your hands before touching food, after coughing or sneezing and after using the toilet.

If you would like to read more columns, you can order a copy of “How To Be A Healthy Geezer” at www.healthygeezer.com. All Rights Reserved © 2012 by Fred Cicetti.

The Healthy Geezer

Senior men (over 55) who would like

to play ball may check into the following:

Basketball: Estero Recreation Center, Mon., Wed., Fri. from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Call (239) 498-0415 for information.

Men’s Senior Softball: Three Oaks Park, 18251 Three Oaks Parkway, Fort Myers. Mon and Wed. 9 to 11 a.m. (239) 992-7290.

Senior Volleyball: Estero Recreation Center, Mon. and Wed. Call (239) 498-0415.

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Veterans Corner

Eluding death. Banding

together as one. With character tested, heroes emerge. These themes could apply to many World War II tales, but there are few that take readers to the far-flung battlefield of the Philippines during the Bataan Death March, and no other that shares the heroics of Lt. Clay Conner, Jr. He was an unlikely hero whose actions helped him and his men survive thirty-four months amongst an array of enemies. Resolve: From the WWII Jungles of Bataan, The Epic Story of a Soldier, a Flag, and a Promise Kept by military writer Bob Welch is an intriguing blend of courage, perseverance and the absolute resolve to live, even if it meant becoming a member of a native tribe. On April 9, 1942, thousands of U.S. soldiers surrendered as the Philippine island of Luzon fell to the Japanese. A few hundred Americans placed their faith in their own hands and headed for the jungle. Among them was Clay Conner Jr., a 23-year-old Army Air Force communications officer—a Duke cheerleader—who had never even camped out before.

An Untold True Story from the WWII Jungles of Bataan, by Bob Welch

Resolve is the story of how Conner eludes World War II’s Bataan Death March and galvanizes groups of disparate people—among them, a tribe of arrow-shooting pygmy Negritos—to survive the relentless pursuit of Japanese and communist soldiers. As months—and then years—pass, Conner’s mother, Marguerite, refuses to believe her son is dead. Will he prove her right? As in Welch’s previously cel-ebrated titles American Nightingale and Easy Company Soldier,

the keen insight into the feelings, fears and foibles of his characters is ever apparent in Resolve. “One’s ability to withstand the tough-est ordeals isn’t dependent on who we are when the challenge begins,

but on what we become when forced to rise to the occasion or die,” says Welch. Conner perse-vered, surviving a relentless pursuit of the enemy and to keep a promise, emerging from a Philippines jungle to present an amazed lieutenant general with a tat-tered American flag on a bamboo pole, symbolic of an un-likely victory won. “Resolve is more than a book about war,” adds Welch, “but about

groups of people whose strength in a common purpose negates whatever differences might threaten to divide them. And, amid a horrific war, about an unlikely hero who forged peace among them—and within himself.” More about the author onlineat bobwelch.net.

months amongst an array of enemies.

the WWII Jungles

writer Bob Welch

blend of courage,

as the Philippine

we are when the challenge begins,

Conner perse-vered, surviving a relentless pursuit of the enemy and to keep a promise, emerging from a Philippines jungle to present an amazed lieutenant general with a tat-tered American flag on a bamboo pole, symbolic of an un-likely victory won. “more than a book about war,” adds Welch, “but about

Author Bob Welch

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Fitness Training for Mature AdultsBY JIMMY BOWEN

Outlined below are several of the myths you may have read or

heard and the truths behind some com-mon wellness issues for senior adults.

Myth #1: Improvement of my heart health can only be attained by completing high intensity aerobic exercise for an extended period of time. If I’m not completely exhausted at the end of my workout I prob-ably didn’t do myself any good.Truth: A person does not need to maintain lengthy periods of intense ex-ercise to improve cardiovascular con-ditioning. A simple, consistent walking program around the neighborhood, at the mall or a local park will help you to increase your heart stroke volume, your energy levels and your well being. Grab a friend and do some walking.

Myth #2: Weight training is for growing big muscles, and if I try to lift weights I’ll probably hurt myself.Truth: A significant improvement in your fitness level can be attained with moderate elements of weight training. Adding a few extra pounds to your shopping cart, placing

your own groceries in your car and returning the cart to the store are all examples of simple weight training exercises. A productive element of resistance training added to your fitness program can be implemented and completed entirely in your own home using items you already have. No expensive machines to buy or need to visit a gym every day.

Myth #3: Eating healthy is expensive.Truth: It is true that engaging in a 100 percent organic diet is more expensive. But you do not have to ex-ceed your food budget. Eating healthy means limiting high fat content items and concentrating on items that will help you fuel your body the right way. Utilizing a trainer or designing a program on your own will result in many improvements. Be sure to consult with a professional before engaging in any exercise program to be sure the details are right for your conditioning level and physical circumstances. As the famous sports-wear company says ‘Just Do It!’ The author is a Certified PersonalTrainer and Senior Fitness Specialistat 50andBeyondFitness.comor (727) 504-4613.

Salute a Senior VolunteerThe search is on for Florida’s

outstanding senior volunteer. The Salute to Senior Service program, spon-sored by Home Instead, Inc. honors the contributions of adults 65 and older who give at least 15 hours a month of vol-unteer service to their favorite causes. Nominations are due by March 31. State winners then will be selected by popular vote at SalutetoSeniorService.com from April 15 to April 30. From those state winners, a panel of senior

care experts will pick the national Salute to Senior Service honoree. Each state winner receives $500 for their favorite nonprofit organizations and their stories will be posted on the Salute to Senior Service Wall of Fame. In addition, $5,000 will be donated to the national winner’s charity of choice. SalutetoSeniorService.com. for info and nomination forms: Completed forms also can be mailed to Salute to Senior Service, P.O. Box 285, Bellevue, NE 68005.

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www.SalvationArmyLeeCounty.org

Consignment Shopping

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Find Consignment Shops, Resale Shops,Thrift Shops and Antique Shops conveniently located in Lee, Charlotte & Collier Counties.

For more information on how you can advertise contact Nancy Kuehne at 239-822-6150.

Join us for an informative event featuring noted gerontologist and personal trainer Lorie Eber where you can listen, laugh and learn about healthy aging.

Listen. Laugh. Learn.

Covenant Retirement Communities does not discriminate pursuant to the federal Fair Housing Act.

Covenant Retirement Communities is a ministry of the Evangelical Covenant Church

RightWhereYouBelong.org

Event: Healthy Aging seminar

When: 10:30 a.m. – noon, Wednesday, March 13

Where: Covenant Village of Florida 9215 West Broward Blvd. Plantation, FL 33324

RSVP: Contact Kellie at 954-598-9250 or [email protected]

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Team physicians for the Everblades, Miracle baseball, Minnesota Twins and several local high school football teams.

John Kagan, M.D. Michael Jugan, D.O. Pedro Monserrate, M.D. Peter Curcione, D.O. David Sudderth, M.D. Peter Walimire, D.P.M. John Kagan, M.D. Michael Jugan, D.O. Pedro Monserrate, M.D. Peter Curcione, D.O. David Sudderth, M.D. Peter Walimire, D.P.M.

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It’s a boom that is turning out to be a bust! In baby boomer’s

health, that is. Baby boomers have higher levels of hypertension, diabetes, high choles-terol and higher rates of disability than their parents. They are also more likely to be obese and less likely to exercise. A new study compared health status, functional and work disability, healthy lifestyle character-istics and presence of chronic disease. “Despite their longer life expectancy over previous generations, U.S. baby boomers have higher rates of chronic disease, more disability and lower self-rated health than members of the previous generation at the same age,” the study authors wrote. “On a positive note, baby boomers are less likely to smoke cigarettes and

experience lower rates of emphysema and [heart attacks] than the previous generation.” Dr. Dana E. King, professor and chair of family medicine at West Virginia University in Morgantown, led the study which found that 40 percent of the baby boomers were obese, compared to 29 percent from the older group. Many fewer baby boom-ers get regular physical activity as well. A whopping 52 percent said they aren’t active, while only 17 percent of the over-baby boomer-age group could say that. King expressed concern in one interview that boomers may be relying too much on medication to solve their health problems. He added that drugs should be used in conjunction with a healthy lifestyle, not instead of one. Disability was defined conservatively said one researcher. “To be considered disabled you had to be walking only with an assistance device, such as

a cane, or only able to climb up 10 steps, have trouble stooping down or walking a quarter of a mile.” Boomers consistently had a higher level of dis-ability than their parents’ generation. Nancy Copperman, a public health initiatives director, noted that baby boomers are definitely moving less than their parents did. She said, “Our parents didn’t have the conveniences we have. Now, often both parents are working and spending less time doing manual

labor. Instead of mowing the lawn or cleaning the house, they might hire someone to do it,” she noted. Moderate drinking was more common among the boomers compared to the previous generation (67.3 percent vs. 37.2 percent). In addition, while life expectancy is higher for boomers than it was for the previous generation, more boomers are unhealthy by their own admission. Only one in 10 baby boomers reported being in excellent health compared to one-third of

their parents who reported the same. It is predicted that as baby boomers move into their 60s and 70s, they will utilize the healthcare system more than ever before. Doctors’ offices will be busier than ever before, and the need for healthcare professionals will skyrocket in the next decade. “The Status of Baby Boomers’ Health in the United States: The Healthiest Generation?,” March issue of JAMA Internal Medicine.

Baby Boomers Are Not as Healthy as Their Parents

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Fad Diets May Be Damaging to the HeartCrash diets and calorie-restricted eat-

ing plans can lead to heart damage. Many diet pills being sold under the weight loss umbrella are also not FDA approved and have, in some cases, been linked to heart problems and even death. Repeated crash dieting can increase your risk of a heart attack and severe calorie restriction can cause heart muscle loss. “Cutting out too many calories and going on yet another crash diet could—literally—wear your heart out, says Mohammed Saghir, M.D., Cardiologist at Bradenton Cardiology Center. “The same goes for diet pills containing too much caffeine or other stimulants.” Overuse of diet pills containing caffeine can have very negative ramifications on the heart. “Excessive use may cause arrhyth-mia (or irregular heartbeat), elevated blood pressure and rapid heart rate. In extreme cases, the pills may trigger ventricular fibrillation, a lethal condi-tion wherein the ventricles of the heart muscle develop a chaotic rhythm and cease their contractions, upon which the heart stops pumping blood to the rest of the body,” Dr. Saghir explains. While weight control is critical for keeping the heart muscle in shape—the food you eat matters just as much. A heart-healthy diet can reduce your risk of heart disease or stroke by 80 percent, according to the American Heart Association. Dr. Saghir has these tips for healthy weight loss and how to eat to protect your heart in the new year.

1. Don’t “diet.” A crash diet may work if you’re trying to fit into a dress by next month. But if you’re trying to improve your heart health, cycling through different fad diets won’t help. Diets that demonize one type of food—whether it’s carbs or fat—don’t work either. Instead, take a sensible approach. Focus on lean meats, vegetables and whole grains to get long-term benefits for your heart and your waistline.

2. Avoid caffeine. If you have atrial fibrillation, caffeine and other stimulants can trigger symptoms.3. Sea salt is still salt. Most Americans think sea salt is a low-sodium alternative to regular table salt. The truth is it has the same amount of sodium. Any type of salt increases your blood pressure. The guideline is no more than a teaspoon a day. If you already have high blood pressure, you should eat even less. And, it doesn’t just come from the salt shaker. Up to 75 percent of the salt we consume comes from processed foods such as soups and frozen meals. If your food comes in a can or a box, check the sodium content.4. Choose meats wisely. Red meat is usually high in saturated fat, which is bad for your heart. That doesn’t mean you have to banish meat from your diet. Just be savvy. Choose the leanest cuts and always cut off the fat. Look for cuts such as sirloin, flank, rump roast, and tenderloin. Or, choose pork tenderloin, turkey or chicken breast, as an alternative.5. A little wine may be good, but a lot is not. Yes, studies show that drinking modest amounts of alcohol—not just wine—has heart benefits. “But don’t assume that if a glass is good, a jug must be better,” Dr. Saghir warns. Excess alcohol—more than one drink a day for women or two for men—increases your risk for heart problems. It drives up blood pressure and can trigger irregular heartbeats in people with atrial fibrillation. More information at (941) 748-2277.

Lifestyles: 1/4 page (4.9167” x 4.8056”)

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Dr. Jonathan Frantz Offers Revolutionary Cataract Eye SurgeryThe same innovation

used for all-laser LASIK is now revolution-izing cataract surgery. In May 2012, area Cataract and LASIK Specialist Jonathan M. Frantz, MD, FACS, became the first surgeon in southwest Florida to offer Bladeless Laser Cataract Surgery with Alcon’s LenSx, a computer-controlled laser that ensures the highest-precision surgical incisions. This is the greatest advancement in cataract surgery in 20 years. Leading eye surgeons throughout the world consider bladeless cataract surgery the wave of the future. As a surgeon who has often introduced new technology to our area, Dr. Frantz is thrilled about bringing the future of cataract surgery to our area now. By adding computer control to the three key steps of cataract surgery, the LenSx laser is unquestionably the most

technologically advanced option for cataract patients. Patients have the choice of having traditional cataract surgery or the LenSx blade-less laser cataract surgery, which is considered a premium enhanced procedure that requires an out-of-pocket fee. Standard cataract surgery is covered by insurance, but those patients should

expect to wear glasses. To learn more about cataracts and bladeless laser cataract surgery, you may schedule an appointment online at www.bettervision.net or call (239) 418-0999. Jonathan M. Frantz, MD, FACS, and his team of nine doctors at Frantz EyeCare offer a broad spectrum of patient-focused comprehensive care from eye exams and eyewear to bladeless laser cataract removal, treatment of eye diseases, blade-less iLASIK, and eyelid surgery with office locations in Fort Myers, Naples, Cape Coral, Punta Gorda, and Lehigh Acres.

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Bad Ideas Won’t Solve Bad Hair Days, Says Expert

Misinformation can be just as stubborn as frizz or those

pesky flyaways—it’s difficult to manage, impossible to reason with and it just keeps coming back, says longtime hair-care advocate and health scientist Audrey Davis-Sivasothy. “Old wives’ tales and ineffective products that claim to treat or rehabili-tate hair often have a placebo effect because people want them to work,” says Davis-Sivasothy, author of Hair Care Rehab. “But many of these ideas and products actually do the opposite of what’s intended, and they delay the user from seeking out real solutions.”

Davis-Sivasothy debunks the following common hair-care myths:• Myth: There’s a magic pill (or oil, serum or balm) to grow our hair faster, stronger or thicker. Unfortu-nately, no. Hair growth is genetically predetermined and controlled by our hormones. Unless the magic pill affects our genes or hormones, there’s no hope that it might make our hair grow. (This includes prenatal vitamins. Credit the upsurge in hormone levels during pregnancy for those vibrant tresses!) Basic vitamin supplements can offer slight improvements in hair quality, but only if our body truly lacks the particu-lar vitamin or mineral being taken.• Myth: Trimming will make your hair grow stronger, longer, faster or thicker. Since hair is dead, cutting the ends has no effect on what happens at the scalp. Strands will grow at the same predetermined rate each month, and in-dividual strands will grow in at the same thickness as before. While trimming or

cutting the hair does seem to give the appearance of thicker hair, this is only because all of the freshly trimmed hairs now have the same, clear endpoint.• Myth: Expensive products do more! Not necessarily. Always look for ingredients over brand names. There are just as many poorly formulated high-end products as there are bargain ones—and just as many worthy expensive productsas there are bargain ones, too!• Myth: Products made for or mar-keted to a particular race/ethnicity cannot be used by those of other backgrounds. False! The ingredients in a product matter much more than to whom the product is marketed. In fact, most products have the same set of three to five base ingredients. Products for “ethnic” hair types tend to be more moisturizing and have more oils and proteins than those for other hair types. Damaged hair needs a good dose of moisture, proteins and oil to regain its healthy appearance. The

same holds true for products mar-keted to those with color-treated hair. Even if your hair is not dyed, using a product for color-treated hair can be beneficial because these shampoo for-mulas tend to be gentler (to preserve easily washed away hair color) and conditioners tend to be super-condi-tioning, but lightweight, to help reduce dryness from the coloring process. • Myth: Washing your hair too often leads to dryness. This depends. Hair can be cleansed as often as you like without dryness, provided you use the proper products to retain moisture. Those who generally have naturally drier hair types (including those of us with curls and highly textured hair) often shy away from frequent cleansing—but water is not the enemy! It’s the stripping shampoos and mediocre conditioners we use that are to blame. Using the proper moisturizing and conditioning products at wash time will actually increase your hair’s hydration.

Photo by Noel Hendrickson

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How to Help Children with Grandparent DivorceBY KATIE SAINT, MA, BCBA

Grandchildren may be confused, angry and/or sad about grand-

parents separating. They may have questions like, “If they quit loving each other, will they quit loving me?” The questions they ask can be hard to answer and throw you off guard. You may plan to give my children a short answer as to why Grandma and Grandpa do not want to live together anymore, and hope they don’t bring it up again. Unfortunately the short answer may not satisfy a four-year-old. He may want to know if they would ever get back together, or if the family could teach them to get along. They may be upset because the other grandparent isn’t visiting. To aid in the grieving process, it is good to let children know that the decision to live at separate houses is final. A child having false hope that their grandparents will move back

together is not good for accepting this change. You can say, “They tried everything they could and it did not work. Now they feel the best decision is to live in separate houses.” It is important to point out to children that their love from their grandparents will not change. Just because Grandma and Grandpa do not love each other doesn’t mean they will quit loving the child. Be intentional about having children spend time with Grandma and Grandpa. This can help children see that Grandma and Grandpa are still the same.

Children may be concerned that Mom and Dad will split up too. A child may ask the parent when they are going to move out like Grandma did. Let the child know that just be-cause Grandma and Grandpa separated doesn’t mean Mom and Dad will too. Children often communicate their anxiety with behaviors. Doing things like drawing pictures, asking them questions about how they are feeling and reading books like, “When Grand-parents Divorce” can help children adjust more quickly and reduce any negative feelings they might have. For older children, you can ad-dress the issues directly. Explain to them what will change and what will stay the same. EX: “Grandma will live at ______,and Grandpa will live at ______. Holidays will be like this. Grandma and Grandpa still love you just the same and are excited for you to come visit them.”

Allow children of all ages to ask as many questions as they like and try to be open and honest with them. Avoid talking bad about either grandparent. Keep in mind as you talk with them that you would like to preserve the relationship between the grandchild and the grandparent.Remember these two important tips:1. If you feel like your children are struggling, and you don’t feel like you have all the tools you want to handle it, see a counselor. A counselor or therapist can help your whole family process through this major life change. 2. Any child going through a hard time will benefit from extra quality time with a loved one.

together is not good for accepting

Katie Saint is the author of “When Grandparents Divorce.”

Free Tax AssistanceAARP Foundation Tax-Aide offers

free help for older taxpayers and people with limited incomes. Go to the site listed below at a time listed to schedule an appointment unless a number is given. Do not call a public library to make appointment.

Lee CountyCape Coral Library

Wed, 9:30 am – 7:30 pm and Thu, 9:30 am – 2 pm South County Library

Thu, 9 am – 12 pm; Fri and Sat, 9 am – 3 pm N. Fort Myers Library

Fri, 9 am – 5 pm; Sat, 9 am – 1 pmSunny Grove Park

20850 S. Tamiami Tr. Thu, 9 am – 3 pm

and Fri, 9 am – 1 pmLakes Library

Fort Myers. Mon, 9 am – 8 pm; Tue, 9 am – 1:30 pm

East County Library, Lehigh Acres Wed and Thu, 9:15 am – 3:30 pm

North Fort Myers Community Center Mon, Wed, 9 am – 1 pm)

Northwest Regional Library519 Chiquita Blvd. N., Cape Coral

Fri, 9 am – 5 pm Grace Community Center

N. Fort Myers. Tue, 10 am – 3 pm; Wed, 3 pm – 6:30 pm; Thu, 10 am – 3 pm

VFW17770 Pine Ridge Rd.,

Ft. Myers Beach. Tue, 9 am – 5 pm Info at www.aarp.org/applications/VMISLocator/taxAideLocations.action.

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Medicare Answers

Dear Marci: I need help paying for my prescription drugs. I do not

qualify for Extra Help. Are there any programs that can help me? —Daniel

Dear Daniel, If you don’t qualify for Extra Help, the federal assistance program that helps people with Medicare pay their prescription drug costs, you may still qualify for other prescription drug assistance programs.

Word Search MarchIn the grid below, twenty answers can be found that fit the category for today. Circle each answer that you find and list it in the space provided at the right of the grid. Answers can be found in all directions – forwards, backwards, horizontally,

vertically and diagonally. An example is given to get you started. Can you find the twenty answers in this puzzle?

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See the Lee County Band in ConcertThe Lee County Community

Band will serve up something for every taste when it performs a free concert, under the direction of Richard Bradstreet, at Cape Coral High School, March 10 at 3 p.m. The 60 band members are musicians from all walks of life—career musicians, amateurs, and folks renewing skill from years past—who reside in Lee, Collier, and Charlotte Counties.

March’s line-up pays tribute to the Irish with a medley of Irish tunes, as well as Dixieland music and a tribute to Louis Armstrong. The band also will perform the Overture to The Barber of Seville, by G. Rossini; a medley of Broadway hits by Rodgers and Hammerstein; and marches by Fillmore and Sousa. For details, visit.leecountyband.org or call Norman Jones: (239) 995-2097.

The Rose of TraleeIt’s March and time to pull those lovely Irish songs out of your memory.

Fellas, here are the lyrics of one to sing to your sweetheart. Don’t remember the tune? Go to ireland-information.com/irishmusic/

irishsongs-music-lyrics-midis.htm and get singing!

The pale moon was rising above the green mountainThe sun was declining beneath the blue sea

When I strayed with my love to the pure crystal fountainThat stands in beautiful vale of Tralee.

She was lovely and fair as the rose of the summerYet, ‘twas not her beauty alone that won me

Oh no! ‘Twas the the truth in her eye ever beamingThat made me love Mary, the Rose of Tralee.

The cool shades of evening their mantle were spreadingAnd Mary all smiling was listening to me

The moon through the valley her pale rays was sheddingWhen I won the heart of the Rose of Tralee.

Though lovely and fair as the rose of the summerYet, ‘twas not her beauty alone that won me

Oh no! ‘Twas the the truth in her eye ever beamingThat made me love Mary, the Rose of Tralee.

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A Slippery Slope for the Weary Wallet

BY MARK PILARSKI

Dear Mark: Where I play black-jack, there are only six-deck

shoes. They just removed the last single-deck 3/2 games and replaced them with 6/5 games. Do you get more blackjacks on a single-deck game to make up for the reduced blackjack payoff? — John P.

You’re on to something, John, in that blackjacks do occur more frequently on a single-deck than on multi-deck games. On a single-deck game, if your first card is an Ace, 16 of the remaining 51 cards, or 31.37 percent, are a face or 10-value card that would complete your blackjack. On a six-deck game, 96 of the remaining 311 cards, or 30.87 percent, would give you your snapper. Now immediately delete the above informa-tion from your brain’s hard drive. Erased yet? Good! True, John, in the past, I have recommended that players play on single-deck blackjack games, simply because with perfect basic strategy, the house edge shrinks to a paltry 0.15%. However, that is based on single-deck games where blackjacks are paid three to two. The swizz going on now is that casinos like yours are advancing Single-Deck Blackjack, but offering merely 6 to 5 for a blackjack. With this new single-deck version, a player’s blackjack is paid just 6 to 5 rather than the usual 3 to 2. To illustrate, if you bet $10 and get a blackjack, you get only $12 instead of the $15 you once received. The house keeps your hard-earned extra three dollars. Above, I stated that the house edge against the perfect basic strategy player was a meager 0.15%; well, now that casino advantage has soared to 1.45%. Given a choice between a six-deck game and 6 to 5 single-deck blackjack, avoid the latter. A six-deck shoe game is three times more advantageous for you than is 6 to 5 single-deck blackjack.

Dear Mark: Who sets blackjack table limits? Are dealers allowed to raise or lower limits? — Danny B.

Table limits are set to establish both the minimum and maximum amount of money you can wager on any one bet. You cannot wager more than the maximum posted on the table game nor less than the table minimum. Table limits can vary from casino to casino, pit to pit, and even table to table. As to who sets table limits, generally it is either a games shift manager or a pit boss working that particular pit, based, of course, on customer traffic. Casinos try their best to keep the inmates from running the asylum, so you won’t see dealers arbitrarily bumping up table limits.

Dear Mark: In Pai Gow poker, is the joker wild in every situation?— Jason C.

In Pai Gow poker, the joker acts as a special card, but not in every scenario. The Joker can only benefit your hand as an ace, or as a wild card to complete a straight, a flush, a straight flush or a royal flush. (SENIOR WIRE)

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BY TRACIE SCHMIDT

here’s nothing like being on the water to make you forget your

troubles. Add a little Bluegrass to the mix, and it’s pure heaven. Once a year, Echo River Trips invites Grammy-nominated musicians Laurie Lewis and Tom Rozum along for the ride on a four-day whitewater excursion on the Rogue River in Oregon. As an avid Bluegrass fan, I jumped at the chance to experience this twist on the traditional rafting trip.

The gang met up in Galice, Oregon to load up and head out on our adventure. It was all adults this trip, many of them with grown children, but that didn’t keep us from acting like kids. On trips like these, days are spent lazing on the gear raft to the steady rhythm of the guide’s oars, enjoying the teamwork of a six-person paddle boat, or braving the Rogue’s class III rapids in a one-man inflatable raft called a “ducky.” The latter was a favorite among the guests. “The scenery is amazing—the adventure’s in the duckies,” said Jeffery Lewis of California, a retiree who spends his free time traveling and enjoying the outdoors. There’s plenty of time to try all three, whether you want to relax during a rough section of the river or test your mettle against the rapids. The guides make regular stops along the way to give everyone a chance to stretch their legs, enjoy a picnic lunch by the river or take in the sights, whether it’s a hike to an old gold-

panner’s homestead and a dip in a cold spring, or a trip to Zane Grey’s cabin, a famous author of western novels who drew inspiration from life on the river. It’s not hard to see why—with rocky grey cliffs and waterfalls, deep green water, mist-shrouded evergreens and abundant wildlife, there’s no shortage of scenery along the way. Osprey circled overhead as we drifted down the Rogue, and we even spotted deer grazing and a black bear fishing on the banks of the river. After pitching my tent for the night (gear is provided by Echo, or you can bring your own), I sat down to a hearty meal of marinated steak kabobs with onions, peppers and mushrooms, roasted potatoes and blue cheese pe-can pear salad. Meals are healthy and savory; there’s always fresh fruit and vegetables on hand to snack on, and vegetarian entrees are served as well. At night, Laurie Lewis and Tom Rozum fiddled, mandolined and sang long after the embers of our campfire died down, while guests shared laughter and stories of their travels. I asked Lewis and Rozem what they enjoyed most about the trip. “Unplugging,” said Lewis with a wry grin. “Getting away from all the sounds of machinery into nature. Into the sounds of water, the river.” “I like everything,” Rozum said. “I just love being outside. It’s important to get out into nature once in awhile.” For me, the best part of the trip was the people. Our guides—Nick, Mike, Kayla and Jennifer—were experienced and friendly. Nick and Mike rescued my wayward ducky on

more than one occasion, Kayla and I geeked-out about our favorite books and Jennifer was a first-class camp chef. Each guide is trained in first aid and swift water rescue and knows every twist and turn of the Rogue. For Nick, the river is like a second home. “Being on the river is such a spiritual place,” he told me. “It’s a lifestyle. Echo is like my family.” For guest Lisa Pratt, it was a chance to spend time with other bluegrass fans and meet two of her favorite musicians. She brought her guitar along for the trip, got a few tips from the pros and had a chance to perform

some original music during an im-promptu talent night. “Playing along with Laurie and Tom, it’s something I’ll never forget,” she exclaimed. There were jokes and skits, crazy cos-tumes galore—everyone got involved. And on the last day, we all lashed our rafts together and drifted down the home stretch of the river while Lewis and Rozum sang “I’m In Love With A River Guide” and “Going Away.” It was a bittersweet ending to an unforgettable trip. To plan your own adventure, visit echotrips.com or call (541) 386-2271.

Travel

Grants Pass, Oregon is not only the gateway to the Rogue River, but to the Redwood Highway as well. Check out these nearby must-sees!

Oregon Caves National Monument 30 mins. south of Grants Pass, just outside of Cave Junction. 90-minute tours of the spectacular marble cave system depart from the ranger station every 30 minutes. Bring warm clothes and be in good shape, as the half mile trek through the mountain includes more than 500 stairs. Well worth the trip! Stay: The Chateau at the Oregon Caves—one of the Great Lodges of the National Parks. Open May through Oct. Oregoncaveschateau.com.

Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park 90 mins. south of Grants Pass. Home to the Grove of Titans, where some of the largest trees in the world are said to be hidden. Visit Stout Grove for a short, easily accessible trail (0.6 mi.) through some truly humbling giants, or take a longer trek on Boy Scout Tree Trail (5.2 mi.) to really explore the park. Stay: The park offers choice camping, but can fill up quickly, so book in advance. Parks.ca.gov/?page_id=413

Adventures in Oregon

Grants Pass, Oregon is not only the gateway to the Rogue River, butto the Redwood Highway as well. Check out these nearby must-sees!

what they enjoyed most about the trip. Grants Pass, Oregon is not only the gateway to the Rogue River, butto the Redwood Highway as well. Check out these nearby must-see

Musicians Laurie Lewis and Tom Rozum perform on the

Rogue River in Oregon.


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Count Dracula may have been a scary fellow, but Count Signals can be

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You lead a high Heart, ruffed in Dummy. Then a Club is played to Declarer’s Jack. Do you win this trick? And how do propose to set the contract? You could grab your ♣A and lead your trump. That will stop a second Heart ruff in Dummy. The danger is that, after drawing trumps, if Declarer has a second Club, she will be able to run the Clubs, pitching away all her red suit losers. Does that mean you should duck the first Club trick? Not necessarily, that

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Sweet Ways to Cook with Sweet CornFlorida’s fresh corn is in, and these

recipes make the most of it. Executive Chef and Culinary Ambassador, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services say, “From fritters and soup to enchi-ladas and corn on the cob with some surprising toppings, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this healthful grain.”

Sweet Corn and Black Bean EnchiladasYield: 6 to 8 servings1 Tbsp. oil1/2 c. onion, chopped1 c. fresh Florida sweet corn kernels2 bell peppers, diced1 tsp ground cumin1 c. salsa1 can low sodium black beans,

rinsed and drainedSalt and pepper

10 6-inch corn tortillas2 c. shredded Monterey

Jack cheese, divided1 8-oz can enchilada sauce

Lightly spray an 11 x 7-inch (2-quart) baking dish with pan release cooking spray. Cook onion, corn and bell peppers for 3 minutes. Add cumin, salsa and black beans, and continue to cook for two minutes. Season. Remove pan from heat and let cool slightly. Place an even amount of the filling mixture and cheese in

each tortilla. Carefully roll up each tortilla, and place seam side down in sprayed baking dish. Pour enchilada sauce over rolled en-chiladas, spreading to coat all tortillas. Sprinkle with remaining 1 cup cheese.Bake 25 to 30 minutes at 350 degrees until bubbly. Serve with diced avo-cado, salsa and sour cream, if desired.

Sweet Corn and Ricotta FrittersYield: 4 to 6 servings2 ears corn, kernels removed1/2 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped fine4 oz. low-fat ricotta cheese2 eggs, beaten1/3 c. self-rising flourSalt and pepperOlive oil (for shallow pan frying) In medium-sized bowl, combine corn, cilantro, ricotta, eggs, flour, salt and pepper. In a small amount of olive oil in preheated sauté pan, add spoonfuls

of corn mixture to hot pan. Cook on both sides until golden brown. Serve with low-fat sour cream if desired. (Family Features)

Sweet Ways to Cook with Sweet Corn

Recipe

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Olive oil (for shallow pan frying)

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1/2 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped fine

Olive oil (for shallow pan frying)

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Ireland and the ShamrockEven though the Celtic harp is the

official emblem of Ireland, in the hearts and minds of people all over the world, the shamrock is the most uni-versally recognized symbol of Ireland. It is the emblem of the official airline of Ireland, Aer Lingus. Every year on St. Patrick’s Day, Aer Lingus flies freshly cut shamrock to the Irish embassies all over the world so that Irish diplomats and

uniformed personnel can uphold the “Wearing of the Green” tradition on their beloved national holiday.

Ireland and the Shamrock

Big RockAn Irishman by the name of

O’Malley proposed to his girl on St. Patrick’s Day. He gave her a ring with a synthetic diamond. The excited young lass showed it to her father, a jeweller. He took one look at it and saw it wasn’t real. The young lass returned to her future husband.and protested vehemently about his cheapness. “It was in honor of St. Patrick’s Day,” he smiled. “I gave you a sham rock.”

Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

Mar. 17From Your Friends At

Celebrating St. Augustine’s

heritage means a culinary history like no other. For March (or any other month), eat, drink and be Irish at Meehan’s Irish Pub on the waterfront in downtown St. Augustine. They’re serving up phenom-enal food choices and ongoing stories by the staff about close encounters of the “spirit” kind in the 1914-era building. Look for the chef to cook up tradi-tional food like corned beef and cab-bage, but he’ll also incorporate Irish influences, such as Beggar’s Purse—pastry wrapped around chicken pot pie with an ale and cheese sauce. John Meehan, owner of Meehan’s, is hosting a 10-day Celtic Festival this month. Last year he brought in 50 musicians from Europe and had 10

days of music from 6 to 9 p.m. “Don’t look for green beer,” he says. “Mee-han’s will give you the authenticity of both food and spirits.” His staff is trained to help visitors find their perfect combination of the two—and they’ll throw in a good story as well. Out back, Meehan’s Backyard is an island cafe and tropical bar with lighter fare such as Conch Chowder or a Sloppy John.


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“All my friends have new cell phones. They carry them around with them allday, like mini computers, with little tiny keyboards and hundreds ofprograms which are supposed to make their life easier. Trouble is…my friends can’t use them. The keypads are too small, the displays arehard to see and the phones are so complicated that my friends endup borrowing my Jitterbug when they need to make a call. I don’tmind… I just got a new phone too… the new Jitterbug Plus. NowI have all the things I loved about my Jitterbug phone alongwith some great new features that make it even better!

GreatCall® created the Jitterbug with one thing in mind – to offerpeople a cell phone that’s easy to see and hear, simple to use and affordable. Now, they’ve made the cell phone experience evenbetter with the Jitterbug Plus. It features a lightweight, comfortabledesign with a backlit keypad and big, legible numbers. There iseven a dial tone so you know the phone is ready to use. You canalso increase the volume with one touch and the speaker’s beenimproved so you get great audio quality and can hear everyword. The battery has been improved too– it’s one of the

longest lasting on the market– so you won’t have tocharge it as often. The phone comes to you with your account already set up and is easy to activate.

The rate plans are simple too. Why pay for minutes you’ll never use? Thereare a variety of affordable plans. Plus, you don’t have to worry about

finding yourselfstuck with nominutes– that’sthe problem withprepaid phones.Since there is nocontract to sign,you are not lockedin for years at atime and won’t besubject to earlytermination fees.

Now, when you sign up for our Basic 19 plan,you’ll double your monthly minutes for the same price. The U.S.-based customer service isknowledgeable and helpful and the phone gets service virtually anywhere in the continental U.S.Above all, you’ll get one-touch access to a friendly,and helpful GreatCall operator. They can look upnumbers, and even dial them for you! They arealways there to help you when you need them.

Call now and get a FREE Car Charger – a$24.99 value. Try the Jitterbug Plus for yourself for 30 days and if you don’t love it,just return it for a refund1 of the product purchase price. Call now – helpful Jitterbug

experts are ready to answer your questions.

Monthly Minutes

Monthly Rate

Operator Assistance

911 Access

Long Distance Calls

Voice Dial

Nationwide Coverage

Friendly Return Policy1

Basic 14

50

$14.99

24/7

FREE

No add’l charge

FREE

YES

30 days

Basic 19

100

$19.99

24/7

FREE

No add’l charge

FREE

YES

30 days

DoubleTime200

We proudly accept the following credit cards.

4756

7

Jitterbug Cell PhoneAsk how you can get DoubleTime for Life! Please mention promotional code 49640.

1-888-808-7522www.jitterbugdirect.com

Order now and receive a FREECar Charger for your Jitterbug –a $24.99 value. Call now!

Available in Silver and Red.

IntroducingDoubleTime!

Double your monthly minutes for life

with activation by 03/31/13

IMPORTANT CONSUMER INFORMATION: DoubleTime offer valid on Basic 19 Plan and applies to new GreatCall customers only. Offer ends 3/31/13. Offer valid until plan is changed or cancelled. All GreatCall phones require a one-time set up fee of $35. Coverage andservice are not available everywhere. You will not be able to make 9-1-1 calls when cellular service is not available. Rate plans do not include government taxes or assessment surcharges and are subject to change. No roaming or long distance charges for domestic calls withinthe U.S. There are no additional fees to call GreatCall’s 24-hour U.S. Based Customer Service. However, for calls to an Operator in which a service is completed, minutes will be deducted from your monthly balance equal to the length of the call and any call connected bythe Operator, plus an additional 5 minutes. 1 We will refund the full price of the GreatCall phone if it is returned within 30 days of purchase in like-new condition. We will also refund your first monthly service charge if you have less than 30 minutes of usage. If you have morethan 30 minutes of usage, a per minute charge of 35 cents will apply for each minute over 30 minutes. The activation fee and shipping charges are not refundable. Jitterbug and GreatCall are registered trademarks of GreatCall, Inc. Samsung is a registered trademark of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Copyright ©2013 Samsung Telecommunications America, LLC. Copyright ©2013 GreatCall, Inc. Copyright ©2013 by firstSTREET for Boomers and Beyond, Inc. All rights reserved.

No

Contra

ctBetter

Sound and

Longer Battery Life

Finally, a cell phone that’s… a phone

Introducing the all-new Jitterbug® Plus. We’ve made it even better… without making it harder to use.

NEW

More minute plans available. Ask your Jitterbug expert for details.

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