Lifestyles After 50 Suncoast Jan. 2013 edition

Defining Moments from 1963

Winter Wonderland Vacation

Discover the Fun

at the Florida

State Fair

Boomer Beat

www.LifestylesAfter50FL.com • Suncoast • FREE

January 2013

Super Recipes

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 2

The Value Of EyesightBY DAVID JEFFERY, Marketing Director,Eye Institute of West Florida

It is a fact of life that vi-sion changes as you age.

But do aging eyes have to compromise your lifestyle? The answer is simple: not any more. By the onset of cataracts, most people would have been challenged by the necessity of having to wear glasses. What if you had the option to remove cataracts and eliminate, or reduce, the need to wear glasses again? What would life be like for you and what is it worth? Technology for cataract surgery has advanced rapidly in the past two years and the results are truly remarkable. To remove a cataract and correct astigmatism using computer guided la-sers now allow surgeons to customize vision to individualized specifications

with a very high degree of accuracy. Cataract surgery in the hands of an experienced physician can help make life a lot simpler and comfortable. This new level of precision resulting in better outcomes for

patients, allowing for clearer, uncor-rected visual acuity, and reducing patients’ need for glasses, comes at a price above standard cataract surgery using traditional methods. Of course, Medicare and private insurance will pay a large portion of standard care, but the result will not eliminate the need for glasses for a full range of vision or correct astigmatism. Life will probably continue as before, wearing glasses daily and dealing with the added expense of maintenance for the remainder of life.

It is not every day we are afforded options like laser cataract surgery to turn back the hands of time to a day when our vision was great. Most surgeons will not over empha-size the prospect of being glasses-free but many patients do report no need for glasses again. For those that do, only a light pair of readers may be necessary to read fine print such as that on a medicine bottle. Many patients who undergo the advanced procedure also report seeing so well they are able to drive the next day and wish they had had the procedure sooner. Depend-ing on the lens implant you choose, you should be able to read road signs

and the car instrument panel and drive safely. Judging distance and speed, bright sunlight or headlights of

oncoming traffic at night are no longer a problem, and colors are more vivid. You can enjoy doing all the things you love to do (play golf, tennis, swim) without the hassle of glasses or contacts. For that one chance, which will you choose—the advanced procedure or returning to a lifestyle of glasses for a lifetime? Having to choose one over the other may have you weighing lifestyle

versus cost, but know this: cataract surgery can only be performed once. What is your eyesight worth to you? To learn more, call the Eye Institute of West Florida at (727) 581-8706.

Clearwater • Largo • St. Petersburg

727-565-4286www.eyespecialist.com

NeelDesai, MD

StephenWeinstock, MD

RobertWeinstock, MD

BLADELESS LASER CATARACT SURGERY

ExpERiENCED phYSiCiANS

YoU CAN TRUST


Dear Readers,

It’s that time of year again: Start

a new calendar and think about what we want to accomplish in a new year. For me, I’m going to start by trying to lose a few pounds and slow down to more fully enjoy beautiful flowers. Dear Husband has worked hours and hours over the past two years we’ve been married creating a backyard full of beautiful plants. This picture is just one of the twelve colors of hibiscus

now in bloom. And, because we also need to laugh, I want to share this poem again.

A Time For New Beginnings

Janice Doyle, Editor

Senior Entrepreneurs WantedDid opportunity for success come knocking at your door? We’re looking for stories of successful senior

entrepreneurs! If you took a unique opportunity and ran with it after you turned 50, briefly (100 words or less) tell about yourself and your business. We’ll choose several entrepreneurs to tell our readers about. Send your story

by email to [email protected] (subject line: Entrepreneur Story) or by snail mail to Attn. Janice, News Connection USA, Inc. P.O. Box 638, Seffner, FL 33583. Be sure to include your name, address and phone number.

The Month After ChristmasT’was the month after Christmas, and all through the house,

Nothing would fit me, not even a blouse;The cookies I’d nibbled, the eggnog I had to taste,

At the holiday parties had gone to my waist;When I got on the scales there arose such a number!

When I walked to the store (less a walk than a lumber),I’d remember the marvelous meals I’d prepared,The gravies and sauces and beef nicely rared;

The wine and the rum balls; the bread and the cheese,And the way I’d never said, “No thank you, please.”

As I dressed myself in my husband’s old shirt,And prepared once again to do battle with dirt,

I said to myself, as only I can,“You can’t spend a winter disguised as a man!”

So, away with the last of the sour cream dip.Get rid of the fruit cake, every cracker and chip.

Every last bit of cheese that I like must be banished,’Til all the additional ounces have vanished.

I won’t have a cookie, not even a lick.I’ll want only to chew on a long celery stick.

I won’t have hot biscuits, or corn bread, or pie,I’ll munch on a carrot and quietly cry.

I’m hungry, I’m lonesome, and life is a bore,But isn’t that what January is for?Unable to giggle, no longer a riot.

Happy New Year to all and to all a good diet!

The Winner Of The Book America's Best Pies Was

Sylvana Mielke Of Port Charlotte!

Congratulations!

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

Pinellas/Pasco Edition

General ManagerDave Tarantul

[email protected]/Director of Events & Marketing

Kathy J. [email protected]

EditorJanice Doyle

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Fax: (813) 651-1989www.lifestylesafter50fl .com

Attention Readers: The articles printed in Lifestyles After 50 do not necessarily refl ect the opinion of the Editor or the staff. Lifestyles After 50 endeavors to ac-cept reliable advertising; however, we cannot be held responsible by the public for advertising claims. Life-styles After 50 reserves the right to refuse or discon-tinue any advertisement. Our advertising deadline for the February 2013 issue is Jan. 15, 2013. Magazines are out by the 7th of each month. All rights reserved.

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Lifestyles After 50 Fun Fest!The 8th annual Lifestyles After 50

Fun Fest! will be held in the Spe-cial Events building, (Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. Entrance) at the Florida State Fairgrounds, Tampa, on Wednes-day, January 23 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This FREE event features over 85 exhibitors with information on health, wellness, lifestyles, travel and more. A friendly lunch will be available for $5 along with goodies from our friends at Costco and Perkins, with free coffee. Entertainment will fill the stage from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and include Richie Merritt of The Marcels, Russell Cortese as “Elvis,” William “Duece” Hulett “Best in Country,” as well as Fritzy the “One Man Circus” and much more. This year’s special treat will be singing sensations the Knockouts, performing all your favorites from the ‘50s and ‘60s. Get your own free caricature drawn by artist, Art Pressman. Check out the Fun Sports Center and take your chance on a hole-in-one to win a

prize. Plus, the all new Prize-A-Palooza offers chances to win $100 throughout the day. The Grand Prize will be a 2-night Stay at the Beau Rivage Resort in Biloxi, including round trip airline tickets for two! Tampa General Hospital will pro-vide total cholesterol and diabetes testing, plus body fat composition and blood pressure. Other screenings will include bone density, hearing and important health information. The annual Fun Walk warm-up and walk will begin at 9:15 a.m. in front of the special events building. Call (813) 653-1988 or 1-888-670-0040 for registration forms, or sign up on the day of the walk at 8:45 a.m. Admission is $3 for charity, and includes parking. Walkers will en-joy free continental breakfast and a T-shirt to the first 120 to register. Admission is FREE. Parking is $3. for directions, call (813) 621-7821 For more info, call (813) 653-1988 or visit online at www.lifestylesafter50fl.com.


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Wednesdays Tea Dances held at the Coliseum, downtown St.

Pete.$7 for dance and $10 for dance and instruction. (727) 892-5202.

10 Vegetable Gardening in Florida class by Nancy Bevilacqua,

Pinellas County Master Gardener. Palm Harbor Library, 2330 Nebraska Ave., Palm Harbor. 2 p.m. and 6:15 p.m. Free, registration requested. (727) 582-2603 or lawnandgarden.eventbrite.com.

11 – 13 Sunshine City Antiques & Collectibles Show. $6 admis-

sion. Furniture, art, pottery, jewelry, silver, toys, more. Antique Appraisal Fair Sat. and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.$5/item. (727) 892-5202.

11– 13 Jane Seymour Original Art Exhibition and personal

meet and greet with artist at Syd Entel Galleries, Safety Harbor. Jane Sey-mour personal appearances Sat., Jan. 13, 6 – 8 p.m. and Sun., Jan 13, 2 to 4 p.m. 247 Main St., Safety Har-bor. Information at sydentelgalleries.com or call (727) 725-1808 to RSVP.

11 – 13 Gem, Jewelry and Mineral Show sponsored by the Pinellas

Geological Society at Largo Cultural Center, 105 Central Park Dr., Largo. Free admission. Club meets fourth Tuesdays at Largo Library at 6 p.m. Information at (727) 894-2440.

12 19, and 26 Digital Photography Workshop by Parks and Rec

Dept. at Land O’Lakes Recreation Complex, 3032 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes. $50 for 3 sessions. 1 to 4 p.m. Call (813) 929-1220.

12 “Ron & the Classics” live music for dance at Colreavy

Hall, 820 Jasmine Way, Clearwater. Clearwater Singles social group. Info at scips.tripod.com. For additional information, call (727) 253-4874 or (727) 461-7104.

16 through March 3 “The Piano Lesson” by August Wilson

by American Stage Theatre. $29 to $59 tickets. Info: (727) 823-7529.

17 “Do It Again” Jazz CD release with Nicki Parrott and Rossano

Sportiello at the Palladium Theater, St. Pete. Call (727) 822-3590 for tickets.

25 Guy Harvey Film Festival: “Mystery of the Grouper

Moon.” 7 p.m. at Florida Gulf Coast Fishing Center, 12211 Walsingham Rd., Largo. $5. Phone: (727) 365-4660.

26 River City Ragtime Band plays for Dixleland & Ragtime

Dance at the St. Petersburg Polish American Society, 1343 Beach Dr., SE., St. Petersburg. Dixleland, Mardi Gras, Ragtime Standards, Blues, Swing, Polkas, Waltzes, Line Dances, Skits, Singalongs. 3 to 6 p.m. (727) 518-2939. Door Charge/$5.

29 – 30 Billy Elliot the Musical performance at Ruth Eckerd

Hall. Music, dance, drama. Tickets $50 to $70. Call (727) 791-7400. Send Around Town news to News Connection USA, Inc., P.O. Box 638, Seffner, FL 33583; fax (813) 651-1989 or email [email protected]. News must be received by the 10th of the month prior to event (i.e. January 10 for February event.)

Around TownW H A T ’ S H A P P E N I N G J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 3

See these in January at the Largo Cultural Center, 105 Central Park Dr. Largo. Info: (727) 587-6793. 5 “The Rat Pack Now,” Frank-Dean-Sammy act. 13 “Let’s Hang On,” Tribute show to Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons (“Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” more). 2 p.m. 25 – 27 The Stephen Sondheim Songbook, song and dance with music from the composer to raise money for the Suncoast Performing Arts Foundation. All tickets—buy in advance at largoculturalcenter.org or atthe door—add $5.

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Is Your Hospital

YOUR InsuranceIn-Network With?

AetnaAmerigroup*Blue Cross Blue Shield of FloridaCarePlusCoventryFreedom Health, IncHumanaMolina Healthcare of Florida

Optimum Health CarePhysicians United PlanPreferred Care PartnersSimply Healthcare Plans, Inc.Sunshine State Health PlanUnited HealthcareUniversal HealthcareWellcare

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New Options For Cataract PatientsA cataract is a clouding of the lens

in the eye that can affect your vision. There are several reasons why a cataract may form in your eye. Diabetes, smoking and expo-sure to the sun are often causes. Cataracts affect over 20 million Americans over the age of 40 and, ac-cording to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, cataract surgery is the most commonly performed ophthalmic procedure performed in the USA. St. Michael’s Eye & Laser Institute of Largo was pleased to be the first practice in Central Florida to perfom the LenSx® laser cataract procedure. The LenSx® procedure is a blade-less, computer-controlled laser that allows Dr. .Michaelos to plan and perform your surgery to exacting, individualized specifications not attainable with other surgical methods. With laser cataract surgery, Dr. Michaelos will customize your procedure to your own eye’s unique characteristics, virtually resulting in better vision outcomes while potential-ly making your procedure even safer. By adding computer control to key steps of cataract surgery, the LenSx® laser helps ensure the highest-precision surgical incisions. The LenSx® laser is unquestionably the most technologically advanced option for cataract patients. By using the first FDA approved femtosecond cataract laser for the eye, Dr. John Michaelos is able to provide better lens positioning of the replace-ment lens implant and provide a more gentle surgery. These technologies allow three of the most important parts of cataract surgery (the anterior cap-sulotomy, corneal incisions and lens fragmentation) to be accomplished safely and accurately before the patient even enters the operating room. The LenSx procedure provides a more precise measurement in the capsulotomy (opening) through which the cataract is extracted during your procedure. It also has the ability

to measure the thickness of your cornea for astigmatism correction. “Laser cataract surgery is the most precise and least invasive lens surgery we have ever perfomed at St. Michael’s Eye & Laser Institute,” said John Michaelos M.D. “Our patients are seeing our best results ever,” he added. Traditional cataract and lens replace-ment surgeries at St. Michael’s Eye & Laser Institute are among the safest and most successful procedures in medicine today. Due to our experience and commitment to excellence, our complication and infection rates are among the lowest in the world. While we will continue to offer cataract surgery utilizing traditional tech-niques, blade-free LenSx laser cataract surgery at St. Michael’s offers signifi-cant advantages for many patients. To learn more about Laser Cataract Surgery at St. Michael’s Eye & Laser Institute, please call 1-727-585-2200 or visit www.stmichaelseye.net.

John L. Michaelos, M.D. St. Michael’s Eye & Laser Institute

Tampa Bay’s Premier Eye & Laser Center

1018 West Bay DriveLargo, Florida 33770

Phone: 727.585.2200www.stmichaelseye.com

Why LaserCataract Surgery?

Bladeless laser refractive cataract surgery is now a reality, andit's available at St. Michael's Eye & Laser Institute in Largo.

Traditional cataract surgery is considered to be one of thesafest and most successful procedures performed in medicinetoday. Now, a technological breakthrough with the bladelesslaser cataract surgery is available that has significantly improved the precision of several of the most critical steps in cataract surgery.

With laser cataract surgery Dr. Michaelos at St. Michael's Eye &Laser Institute will customize your procedure to your eyesunique characteristics, resulting in better visual outcomes whilepotentially making cataract surgery even safer.

Find out why Dr. Michaelos and St.Michael's were chosen to be thefirst group in Central Florida to perform Laser Cataract Surgery!Your vision will thank you!

"Laser cataract surgery is the most precise and least invasive lens surgery we haveever done. Our patients areseeing our best results ever!" John L. Michaelos, M.D.


BY EVELYN MACKEY

Floridians shopping at their neigh-borhood Publix grocery store are

aware of the diversity of ages in the employees. “Not many folks can say that they have four different genera-tions working with and for them,” says Shannon Patten, Media & Community Relations Manager at Publix headquar-ters in Lakeland. “We hire associates as young as 14 years of age and our eldest, active associate is 96 years young.” She continues, “We find that mature workers come to Publix looking for a second career at a place where they can interact and give back to their commu-nities. Our associates, regardless of age, recognize our family-oriented values and find our track record appealing—in our 82 year history, we’ve never had a lay-off.”

That is not true in many companies today, even though 75 percent of Americans 50 and older expect to work well into the traditional period of retirement—many because they must, and others by choice. Not every company is able to adapt its workplace and job descriptions to accommodate older workers like Publix can. Frank McVay, a registered nurse with WellStar Health Systems in Marrietta, Georgia, thought he would work into his seventies. Nursing, his second career, was his dream. Injured on the job four years ago, Frank called it quits last year when 12-hour shifts and lifting and moving heavy patients became too much. “I just couldn’t keep up with the demands of the job,” he says. He was 58 years old. His story proves nothing is easy. Despite expectations, people continue to retire early—at age 64 for men; 62 for women. For occupations involving work that is physically demanding and mentally taxing, it’s

even earlier. Most nurses, for example, retire at age 55, fully 40 percent of them for health reasons. Karen Mathews, the Director of Work Life Services for WellStar’s 12,000 employees, says she sees too many Franks: “Some of our best people are aging out of the jobs we rely on for quality service.” WellStar’s nurses average 42 years of age, and that’s a big group heading into retirement at the same time that an aging population will increase demand for health services. According to Spiva, the company estimates that replacing an experienced nurse costs between $75,000 and $100,000. “So yes,” she says, “we’d like to hang on to the older worker.”

What companies do Harley-Davidson has a gym at its Menomonee Falls, Wis., factory where workers get exercise routines tailored to their jobs. The company also has train-ers ready to ice down inflammations be-tween shifts at one of its engine plants.

To avoid the early retirement of key workers, some employers have redesigned work areas to minimize kneeling or awkward twisting of muscles and joints. Others have gone even further. Duke Energy Corp. offers a special stretching program for its line technicians (people who make repairs on power lines) before they start a shift. That’s a skill requiring about eight years of training. And right now, the average age of line techni-cians at Duke Energy is 50 to 55. Shannon Patton of Publix cites ca-maraderie, stability and great benefits for having over 25 percent of their workforce composed of associates 50 and over (of 153,500 associates).

Work Longer—But How? And Where?


A Few Defining Moments

The first disco opened in the Whisky A Go-Go

night club in Los Angeles. The first inductees into the Pro Foot-ball Hall of Fame were announced. Travel, financial and commercial transactions by U.S. citizens to Cuba were made illegal NASA’s Mercury program, which put men in space, was completed with the June launch of Mercury 9. Bob Dylan released “Blowin’ in the Wind.” The “red telephone” was established between the Soviet Union and the U.S. in June. LSD was taken for the first time in July, opening the way for the drug culture yet to come.

In August, Martin Luther King led a March on Washington, demanding a law prohibiting racial discrimination in unemployment and a $2 per hour minimum wage for all workers among

other things. He delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech on the National Mall, put-ting civil rights at the top of the political agenda. In August, James Meredith became the first black person to graduate from the University of Mississippi. In September, CBS Evening news began the first half-hour

weeknight news broadcasts. In Britain, the Beatles recorded “Twist and Shout” and “I Want to Hold Your Hand.” Studebaker ceased production in South Bend.

And finally, the Motor Trend’s Car of the Year choice was the American Motors (AMC) Rambler.

Cost of Living• Yearly Inflation Rate: 1.24% • Year End Close Dow Jones

Industrial Average: 762 • Average Cost of new house:

$12,650. • Average Income per year:

$5,807. • Gas per Gallon: 29 cents• Average Cost of a new car: $3,233. • Loaf of bread: 22 cents• Bedroom Air Conditioner:

$149.95

News

The biggest news from 1963 was the assassination of the U.S. President Kennedy on November 22. This thrust Lyndon Johnson into the role

of president. It was a difficult time to become president with the mounting troubles in Vietnam where the Viet Cong Guerrillas had killed 80 American Advisers and in the

U.S. The continued campaign for civil rights by the black community caused violent reactions from whites includ-ing Mississippi, Virginia and Alabama where the black civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. was arrested.

Technology 1963 was the first year for:• touch tone phones• zip codes• lava lamps• tape cassettes• pull tab cans for sodas

1963From

Popular CultureThis was the year State

Mutual Life Insurance invented the Smiley Face that was soon found on anything and every-

thing around the world.

Popular Musicians• Roy Orbison • Buddy Holly • The Drifters • Jim Reeves

Popular TV Programs• The Virginian

• Lassie• The Andy Griffith Show

• The Flintstones • Mister Ed

• The Avengers • The Dick Van Dyke Show

Popular Films • The Birds• Cleopatra

• The Longest Day • Lawrence of Arabia

• Mutiny on the Bounty • To Kill a Mockingbird

Flight A members,Mercury Program

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

President John F.

Kennedy

The “Beatles”


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BY JANICE DOYLE

Back in the ‘60s, Ray Rourke was a long-haul truck driver

in Massachusetts. It was the begin-ning for later owning his own truck-ing company. His wife, Jan, grew up in Rhode Island “in a town so small the police and fire station were in the same building,” she says. In his younger years, Ray drove a ‘32 Ford hot rod—today called a Rat Rod. About 15 years ago, the couple got interested in classic cars when Ray got a 1956 Ford pickup and they started going to classic car shows. Now Jan has her own red ‘56 Ford Fairlaine with lake chrome side pipes and a continental kit on the back that says “lost in the ‘50s.” Jan says, “I started thinking it would be fun to really get involved with shows, and that was the beginning of Jan’s Cruiz-Ins. I love meeting the people. They show me

pictures and tell me about all the time and money they put into their cars.” The Rourkes sponsor Jan’s Cruiz-In every Tuesday night at Prime Time Restaurant, U.S. 19, Port Richey from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. There’s entertainment, music, door prizes, plaques, trophies, cash drawings and raffles with proceeds from the shows to benefit charities. (No cruise-ins during July and August.) Cruiz-Ins are always different as 30 to 100 cars come and go. During the winter when all the snowbirds are here, the car shows can draw up to 150 cars. At the shows, Jan says, “I dress up like Marilyn Monroe, a car hop, or sometimes a bunch of us wear our poodle skirts at the shows and then you really feel like it is the ‘50s and ‘60s.”

Nostalgia for 1963 Frequent car Cruiz-In participants are Jerry and Mary Ann (Jakubiak) Kacz-marek in their red 1963 Chevy Impala. It is a two-door hardtop with a 327 engine and 250-horsepower automatic. They have had the car since 1980 when it had just 63,000 miles on it.

Mary Ann says, “They sure don’t make them like that anymore. Through the years it has never failed us.” The car has no air conditioner, although it could have had one. Jerry once passed up a ’63 Chevy for $150 which had an air conditioner he could have put in his car. Several years later he saw an air conditioner like it for sale at $1,000. Oops! “Our car drives like a Lincoln with its big wheel base,” he says. Among other things, he has added power steering, steel belted radial tires and front wheel disc brakes. Taking his car—or his 1931 Pon-

tiac or 1992 Corvette convertible—to car shows is a family thing. Jerry says, “Car people are just incredible. It’s not just a guy thing anymore. It makes me feel good that my wife enjoys it too. For information, call Janice & Ray Rourke at (727) 841-9122.

(L to R) Jerry and Mary Ann Kaczmarek and their ‘63 Chevy Impala; Jan and Ray Rourke.

Skilled Nursing Unit at Edward White HospitalLocated on the 3rd floor of the hospital this 30-bed unit has 4 private rooms, 13 semi-private rooms, and an Activities Room. The average length of stay for each resident is anticipated to be between 7-11 days.

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The Skilled Nursing Unit has been awarded a 5-Star Rating by The Agency for Healthcare Administration (ACHA). This rating is based on nursing home resident assessments conducted by the centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (cMS). edward White hospital’s Skilled nursing Unit excelled when evaluated in three essential areas: health inspections, rn Staffing, and Quality Measures. These key areas can give an indication of the quality of care an individual nursing home will be able to provide.

• MdS coordinator• recreational Therapist• registered dietician• Social Worker

For more information contact 1-888-243-3627.

Your Community Hospital2323 9th Ave. N • St. Petersburg, FL 33713 • EdwardWhiteHospital.com


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a $10 rebate on these classes. Book clubs, Red Hat clubs, office, sorority, date nights, theme and team build-ing parties are just a few fun events to celebrate here. Paint, canvas and brushes are provided.

Local artists will lead you step by step. No experience is necessary. Choose from over 2600 paintings. Two-hour classes are $35 per person and three-hour classes are $45 per per-son. Located at 2527 Central Ave. in the Grand Central District of St. Pete. Office hours are 2 –7, M-F. Classes are held Monday – Saturday and some Sunday afternoons. Most classes begin at 7 p.m. Go online to www.paintingwithatwist.com/stpetersburg to see the upcoming classes and prices. Pick a painting on the Calendar Tab and sign up online or call (727) 327-4488.


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STIR UP SOME SUPER BOWL FUNWhen it’s Super Bowl time—

or any party, for that matter—you can stir up some fun with easy-to-make appetizers that are sure to please the whole crowd. These four recipes are a breeze to make and all share one simple secret ingredient—Musselman’s Apple Butter. Here are some delicious ideas for turning these dips and sauces into great party appetizers.

Quick and Easy BBQ Sauce Makes: 6 to 8 servings 1 cup Musselman’s Apple Butter 1 cup chili sauce Mix ingredients. Brush on chicken wings or shrimp during the last few minutes of grilling. It is simple to make BBQ pulled pork, as well as the sauce for a crockpot of meatballs or bacon-wrapped smoked sausages.

Apple Butter Mustard Dip Makes: 6 to 8 servings

1 cup Musselman’s Apple Butter

1/2 cup Dijon mustard

Mix ingredients. Delicious with just hard or soft pretzels. Set out a plate of cheese cubes or mini egg rolls for dipping, and you have easy snacking.

Kickin’ Horseradish Sandwich SpreadMakes: 6 to 8 servings

1 cup Musselman’s Apple ButterC reamy horseradish sauce depending on

spice level (1/4 cup for light, 1/2 cup for mild, 1 cup for hot)

Mix apple butter with desired amount of horseradish. This tastes great with roast beef, chicken, or pork—try mini sandwich sliders or pinwheel wraps. Another great idea is to use the spread as a dip for chicken tenders, sweet potato fries or even veggie chips.

Caramel Apple DipMakes: 6 to 8 servings1 cup Musselman’s Apple Butter1/2 cup caramel sauce Mix ingredients. Set a dish of this warm dip on a pretty tray and surround it with freshly sliced apples or pears, and simple gingersnap cookies. For a family fun dessert, dip marsh-mallows and then roll them in chopped nuts. For more ways to stir up some fun at your party, visit www.musselmans.com.(Family Features)

Recipe

The Ultimate Burger

Burger toppings are like football teams—everybody has their favor-

ites, and they swear by ‘em. You could do it Philly-style with melted cheese, onions and green peppers; Chicago-style with fresh relish and spicy slaw; or throw some barbeque sauce and fried onions on top, Texas-style. Swiss and mushrooms, bleu cheese and cajun spices, even mac and cheese—burger toppings abound; but the secret to the ultimate burger is a juicy, flavorful patty. This recipe for the ultimate patty comes from Kittencal at Food.com:

Kittencal’s Juicy Hamburger2 lbs ground beef1 egg, slightly beaten1 ounce envelope dry onion

soup mix (can use the whole package if desired)

2 tablespoons fresh minced garlic (or use 1 teaspoon garlic powder)

1 /4 cup dry breadcrumbs (or crushed soda cracker crumbs, more if needed) (optional)

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper1 -2 tablespoon Frank’s red hot

sauce (or 1-2 teaspoons crushed chili flakes, or can adjust to heat level) (optional)

Directions:1. In a bowl, crumble the ground beef with clean hands. Add in the dry soup mix, egg, garlic, breadcrumbs or crushed soda cracker crumbs, Worcestershire sauce, black pepperand hot sauce (if using).

2. Mix until combined, adding bread-crumbs or cracker crumbs as needed to hold the mixture together (do not overwork the meat or it will be tough).3. Divide the ground beef into 6 equal patties (or make 8 small patties).4. Using your large finger or the back of a small spoon, make a shallow dent into the center of each patty (about1-inch wide).5. Place the patties onto a large plate or a small cookie sheet; cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a mini-mum of 6 – 24 hours to blend flavors.6. Grill or pan fry the burgers until cooked through (if desired, sprinkle a small amount of seasoned salt on top while cooking the patties). Serve on toasted buns with choice of condiments.7. For extra juiciness; shape the ham-burger into a ball. Press 1 tablespoon cold butter into the middle and seal the meat around the ball, then flatten into patties.

Photo by Redsie

Super Bowl: Fun FactsThe first Super Bowl was held

in Memorial Coliseum in Los Angeles on Jan. 15, 1967. The

Green Bay Packers beat the Kansas City Chiefs, 35 – 10.

Super Bowl Sunday is the second biggest day of the year

for food consumption in the US. Thanksgiving is first.

Every year, more than 700,000 footballs are made for official

NFL use. 72 of them are set aside for use during the Super Bowl.Which NFL team has played in

the most Super Bowls? The Pitts-burgh Steelers and Dallas Cowboys

have each played in 8 of them. The Steelers have won six of those games (also a Super Bowl record). The Cowboys have a 5 – 3 record.

The Super Bowl is the second most watched sporting event

in the world. The first is soccer’s Champions League Final.

(From internet sources)


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Dear Rebecca, yes, you might qualify for a Medicare Savings Program (MSP), which is an assis-tance program that helps people with limited income pay for the Medicare Part B premium. While the primary purpose of an MSP is to help pay Medicare premiums and Medicare-related costs, another benefit of this program is that by enrolling into an MSP, you are automatically enrolling into Part B. MSPs also eliminate any premium penalties you may have for delaying enrollment into Part B. To qualify for an MSP, you must have Medicare Part A and meet


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Nov/Dec/Jan

Can Seniors Be Safe Drivers?It’s an ongoing question—can seniors

be safe drivers? The answer varies from one person to the next. Here are 8 tips that could save your life: For most Americans, driving is such a regular part of everyday life that we don’t think twice about slipping behind the wheel. Years in the driver’s seat give us a lot of valuable experience, but there’s a downside, too: As we age, our risk of getting in car accidents goes up. Road safety analysts predict that by 2030 when the last of the baby boomers has turned 65, seniors will be respon-sible for 25 percent of fatal car crashes. Here’s what you can do to stay safe:

Listen to your body. Aches and pains can impair your driving

ability, but sometimes you can mitigate them with simple adjustments. Do your hands ache from gripping the steering wheel? Try a padded steering wheeel cover. Does you back hurt during longer trips? Get an orthopedic seat cushion.

Test your eyes and ears. Today, 6.5 million Ameri-cans over age 65 suffer

from severe vision loss, according to the CDC. Any changes to vision and hearing can make driving dangerous. Visit your doctor for regular check-ups to make sure your eyes and ears are in tip-top shape.

Consider a new car. Many older adults find that a vehicle with large

mirrors and dashboard gauges, and that is easy to get in and out of, makes driving a lot more comfortable. Check out carfit.com, a service offered by AAA that tests your vehicle to find out if it’s ideal for you.

Stay physically active. Regular exercise can help keep your body performing

well behind the wheel. Try yoga to improve your flexibility and sterengthen your core for comfortable long drives and light weight lifting to keep your arms from getting tired.

Drive only in good weather. 17 percent of car crash fatalities occur

during bad weather. Stay off the road when the weather is inclement, and you’ll lower your chances of getting in a crash.

Limit distractions. AAA estimates that 25 to 30 percent of all accidents

are caused by a distracted driver. To keep from being one of them, get settled before you press the gas pedal, choose your radio station and adjust your mirrors and seat. If you’re using directions, make sure you’ve printed out and reviewed them beforehand, or if you have a GPS, enter your destination before you start driving. Put your cell phone in the back seat to keep yourself from

answering calls or texts.

Know your medications. Some medications can cause drowsiness, which

can lead to accidents. Al-ways talk to your doctor or pharmacist about possible side effects. If you’re not supposed to operate a vehicle while taking your medications, don’t.

Take a refresher course. If you had to take a high-school biology test now,

how well would you do? It’sbeen that long since you’ve learned the rules of the road, so consider updating your driving skills in a local or online class. Some insurance companies will even lower their premiums if you do. (See the AAA website to find a class.) Info from Griswold Home care.


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Maybe the Problem is Being Almost AddictedEmergency room visits by

people age 50 and older in-volving pharmaceutical misuse and abuse increased 121 percent between 2004 and 2008. Mil-lions of people worldwide use addictive drugs to feel good, to relieve anxiety, to keep up with friends or to realize any num-ber of other perceived benefits. These occasional users of all ages might fit the definition of “almost addicted.” Between the estimated 10 percent of the population who have a diagnos-able addiction problem and those who don’t use drugs at all falls a group of regular users who oftentimes don’t realize how they’ve become almost addicted. Whether their drug of choice is just to “relieve stress” or a hallucinogen, people who find them-selves in the almost addicted zone are nearly always struggling with a host of relationship or quality of life issues.

In Almost Addicted: Is My (or My Loved One’s) Drug Use a Problem?, authors J. Wesley Boyd and Eric Metcalf show that the state of being “almost addicted” offers users the opportunity to turn their lives around before sliding into true addiction. A person in an “almost addict-

ed” state is outside of normal behavior but doesn’t meet traditional criteria for substance abuse or dependence. Their behavior, however, causes problems for the person or those around him or her. If not stopped, the person has the potential to progress to a diagnosis of true drug abuse or drug dependence. The book offers insight into helping someone who is almost addicted as well as treatment options. For more info, or to order the book, see TheAlmostEffect.com. Published by Harvard Health Publications.

Total Wellness FairVisit the Largo Community Center,

400 Alternate Keene Road, on Thursday, January 31 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for “Getting It Together in 2013: Total Wellness Fair,” presented by the city of Largo Volunteer Corps Advisory Board (VCAB) and the Retired & Senior Volunteer Program of Pinellas county (RSVP). The Wellness Fair will feature health screenings, wellness information,

hands-on activities and healthy living tips, as well as informational displays, product demonstrations, benefit information and educational materials. Enjoy live music, healthy snacks and a chance to win door prizes, raffles and giveaways. You can also take this opportunity to sign up for volunteer service op-portunities in the community. For more info, call (727) 518-3131.


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8 Ways To Quell The Fire Of HeartburnHeartburn is a common problem.

It’s caused by the backwash of stomach acid into the esophagus, the tube connecting the mouth and stomach. This is formally called gas-troesophageal reflux disease (GERD). More than just a minor discomfort, heartburn can significantly reduce quality of life. “Heartburn can cause damage to the esophagus and even in-crease the risk of cancer if ignored and untreated,” says Dr. William Kormos of Massachusetts General Hospital.

These eight steps can help ease heartburn:1. Eat in a heartburn-smart way. Large meals put pressure on the muscle that normally helps keep stomach contents from backing up into the esophagus. The more you eat, the longer it takes for the stomach to empty, which contributes to reflux.

Try smaller, more frequent meals and don’t wolf down your food.2. Avoid late-night eating. Having a meal or snack within three hours of lying down to sleep can worsen reflux, causing heartburn. Leave enough time for the stomach to clear out.3. Don’t exercise right after meals. Give your stomach time to empty; wait a couple of hours. But don’t just lie down either, which will worsen reflux.4. Sleep on an incline. Raising your torso up a bit with a wedge-shaped cushion may ease nighttime heartburn. Wedges are available from medical supply companies and some home goods stores. Don’t just prop your head and shoulders up with pillows. Doing so can increase pressure on the stomach by curling you up at the waist.5. Identify and avoid foods associated with heartburn. Common offenders include fatty foods, spicy foods, tomatoes, garlic, milk, coffee, tea, cola, peppermint and chocolate.

Carbonated beverages cause belching,which also causes reflux.6. Chew sugarless gum after a meal. Chewing gum promotes salivation, which helps neutralize acid, soothes the esophagus and washes acid back down to the stomach. Avoid peppermint gum, which may trigger heartburn more than other flavors.7. Rule out medication side effects. Ask your doctor or pharmacist whether any of the medications you take might cause pain resembling heartburn or contribute to reflux.8. Lose weight if you need to. Being overweight puts more pressure on the stomach and pushes stomach contents into the esophagus. Tight fitting clothing and belts that come with weight gain may also be a factor.

When to consider medication:

If the lifestyle steps above don’t get heartburn under control, the most

effective treatment is a type of drug called a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). It works by drastically reducing acid secretion by the stomach. You can get some PPIs over-the-counter—for example, lansoprazole (Prevacid) and omeprazole (Prilosec). Others are available by prescription only. A PPI can get heartburn under control, but many people end up taking one indefinitely. This isn’t ideal since research has linked PPIs to increased susceptibility to bacterial infection and long-term risk of hip fracture, among other potential risks. After a PPI cools your heartburn symptoms, ask your doctor if you can taper it off and then combine good pre-ventive measures with targeted use of other medicines to keep heartburn from returning. H2 blockers are good for this purpose. They include cimetidine (Tagamet), ranitidine (Zantac), famoti-dine (Pepcid), and nizatidine (Axid). If your symptoms persist, you may need additional testing.

Health


Discover The SpringsSouth Pasadena’s Hidden Treasure

Welcome to The Springs at Boca Ciega Bay, located in beautiful South Pasadena on the campus of The Fountains at Boca Ciega Bay. We’re not your typical skilled nursing facility. We are a 109 bed Medicare certified Rehab Center offering a variety of health care services:

• Skilled Nursing • Wound Care• Social Services • Full scale beauty salon • Individualized activities • State-of-the-art Rehab. We offer Customized Rehab programs 7 days a week both in-patient and out-patient including Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy. We specialize in:

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We make admissions easy! We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our experienced and licensed Nurse Liaison, will meet you at hospital bedside or in your home. If you have a surgery planned, why not come in for a tour and take the mystery out of the admission process. Call (727) 599-1390.

The Springs At Boca Ciega Bay1255 Pasadena Ave.

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Five Ways to Help Avoid Caregiver BurnoutElder Care Expert A. Michael Bloom

offers these practical coping strate-gies for the 60 million American family caregivers to recharge their energy while avoiding burnout, and he notes that “the life you save may be your own.”

1. Put chocolate in your pill box. Caregivers rarely provide themselves with rewards that release stress. Deter-mine your special “chocolate” (which is a metaphor for something that provides ultimate joy) and dose your-self regularly so you create enduring satisfaction and success during the long journey of care.

2. Get those stressful thoughts out of your head and say YES to requests for support. Set a 5 – 10 minute time block at least once per week to deal with your stress. Make a list of all the issues rolling through your mind. Put the items on paper and make plans to address them. When a friend or family member asks how they can help, be pre-pared with this list of tasks that others can perform to lighten your load.

3. Schedule regular breaks. Seek assistance from friends, relatives or volunteers so you take a class, go to the gym, go on a date with your partner or enjoy other fun recreational activities.

4. Use High Tech to Deliver High Touch. Free, easy-to-navigate systems to build support networks can be found at seniorcaresociety.com. Through these online communities, family caregivers can post vital medical and support information, use an online cal-endar to schedule volunteer assistance for activities/appointments and send updates with just the click of a button.

5. Low Tech Packs a Punch, Too. Old school options such as calendars, post-it-notes and dry erase boards are just as effective. Create an information binder for family, friends and vol-unteers so vital medical and support needs are at their fingertips.

For caregivers who are serious about exploring ways to recharge your care-giving energy now, learn more or take a Free Caregiving Burnout Risk Assess-ment by visiting bloomforcoach.com.


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Q. I heard that marijuana helps glaucoma. I’d like to try it,

but won’t I get in trouble?

Marijuana can help your glaucoma and it

could definitely get you in trouble because it’s illegal. Marijuana refers to the parts of the Cannabis sativa plant, which has been used for medicinal purposes for more than 4,800 years. Doctors in ancient China, Greece and Persia used it as a pain reliever and for gastro-intestinal disorders and insomnia. Cannabis as a medicine was com-mon throughout most of the world in the 1800s. It was used as the primary pain reliever until the invention of aspirin. The United States, in effect, made prescriptions for Cannabis il-legal through the Marijuana Tax Act of 1937. The only opponent to the legislation was the representative of the American Medical Association. Marijuana contains at least 60 chemicals called cannabinoids. THC is the main component responsible for marijuana’s mind-altering effect. Marinol (dronabinol), a prescrip-tion drug taken by oral capsule, is a man-made version of THC One of THC’s medical uses is for the treatment of nausea. It can improve mild to moderate nausea caused by cancer chemotherapy and help reduce nausea and weight loss in people with AIDS. Older people, especially those with no marijuana experience, may not tol-erate THC’s mind-altering side effects as well as young people. Doctors gen-erally prescribe several kinds of newer anti-nausea drugs with fewer side effects before resorting to Marinol. Glaucoma increases pressure in the eyeball, which can lead to vision loss. Smoking marijuana reduces pressure in the eyes.Your doc-tor can prescribe other medications to treat glaucoma, but these can lose their effectiveness over time.

Researchers are trying to develop new medica-tions based on cannabis to treat pain. THC may work as well

in treating cancer pain as codeine. A recent study

found that cannabinoids significantly reduced pain

in people with mul-tiple sclerosis, a disease of the

nervous system. Though some doc-tors and patients

suggest marijuana has a legitimate use, the federal gov-ernment disagrees. The law classifies marijuana as

one of the “most dangerous drugs that have no recognized medical use.” The penalties for posses-sion of marijuana can range from a small fine to a prison sentence. Along with the legal implications of smoking marijuana are the health problems such as memory impair-ment, loss of coordination and the potential for withdrawal symptoms and hallucinations. And, inhaling marijuana smoke exposes you to substances that may cause cancer. One study has indicated that the risk of heart attack more than qua-druples in the first hour after smok-ing marijuana. The researchers suggest that a heart attack might be caused by marijuana’s effects on blood pressure, heart rate and the capacity of blood to carry oxygen. Most polls show that about three out of four people approve of medical marijuana. This has led to the intro-duction of bills in Congress that would eliminate federal controls in states that approve medical marijuana. None of these bills has been voted into law. Marijuana is now available by prescription in many states. However, federal agencies con-trol the power to prescribe. 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


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Veterans Corner

SEAL Team 6 Author Discusses Value of Legit Nonprofits

With the war in Afghanistan set to end in 2014, and the Iraq

war having ended two years ago, charities that help veterans and their families may be busier than ever—but without the public awareness generated by an ongoing conflict. Support for the war effort in Afghanistan is on par with the unpopular Vietnam War during the early 1970s, according to a recent Associated Press-GfK poll; only 27 percent of Americans support the effort in Afghanistan. A fundamental differ-ence between then and now, however, is Americans’ nearly unanimous support of U.S. troops, says J. L. Narmi, author of SEAL Team 6, bin Laden and Beyond. “The vitriol expressed toward our Vietnam veterans by many was disgust-ing, but I think we learned from that injustice, and most Americans think the troops deserve much more support than they’re getting,” says Narmi, who comes from a military family. All proceeds from his book sales will go to support veterans’ charities. “The problem is that funding, whether it’s through government or private charities, doesn’t match the expressed support,” he says. “And I worry that will only get worse as these soldiers move out of the public eye and try to take up peace-time lives.” Narmi cites some good resources for Americans looking for quality charities that support the troops:

• The Wounded Warrior Project (wounded-warriorproject.org): With advances in protective

gear and life-saving medical technol-ogy, fewer troops are coming home in coffins than in previous wars, but more are coming back with lifelong injury. This charity seeks to foster a generation of well-adjusted

U.S. Veteran Charities: Beyond Lip Service

wounded service members, and to raise public awareness about their needs and how fellow military men and women can help each other.

• The Navy SEAL Foundation (navysealfoundation.org): As detailed in Narmi’s novel, SEALs

are among the most physically and mentally talented individuals in the world. But they, along with their families, endure enormous stressors, many of which are never discussed due to the nature of their duties. This charity supports these elite warriors and their families.

• Charity Navigator (charitynavigator.org): Whether or not you think you know about the legiti-

macy of a charitable organization, it doesn’t hurt to take a few minutes to verify an organization’s status. This site is widely recognized by investigative reporters to be a reliable resource in reporting a nonprofit’s activity. The above two groups, in which Narmi has donated money, have been verified via Charity Navigator.

Still not sure? …Skepticism is under-standable. It seems the more we hear or read about charities, the more we learn that we shouldn’t simply take their word for how donations will be spent. Media coverage spotlights those outlier groups that are clearly fraudulent; however, most charitable organizations are absolutely streamlined, with work-ers donating their time or receiving a minimal wage. It has never been easier to verify a charity’s reputation. “If everyone who said they support the troops gave just a modest amount to help a veteran who has risked his or her life for our freedom, we would come across far fewer tragedies on the news about vet-related joblessness, homelessness and suicide,” he says.


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Find The Medicare SupplementalCoverage That’s Right For You

BY ALYN TOWNE, III

I sit behind a mahogany desk, I wear a suit, I am a financial planner; I

do not sell Medicare supplements! That’s what I told my insurance wholesaler the first three times he tried to make an appointmentwith me. Then one day he walked into my of-fice, sat down and gave me his pitch. I thought, like most people, that you have to have health insurance; but if you do not use it, it is like throwingyour money away. Once I learned about this Medicare supplement, I thought it was the greatest thing since sliced bread. I want to tell everyone about it. The most comprehensive coverage,any doctor, any hospital—we hearthat a lot. The first company to issue a Medicare supplement policy where

you keep control of most of your money—I never heard that. Four years ago, my father, who has been in the financial services for more than four decades, turned 65. He made me sit in the meet-ings when he grilled the salesman about Medicare supplements. He wanted to know all the facts before he chose a plan. Each salesman had their pitch, and when my father probed further they got quiet, closed their brochures and left. When I learned about this supple-ment, my father was the first person I pitched. If there was an angle I was not seeing, he would find it. Instead, he signed up on the spot. In these tough economic times, don’t waste your money and don’t sacrifice the best coverage. Learn about Medicare supplemental coverage. Call Sterling Insurance, Inc. at (727) 384-5555.

Bay Pines VA Volunteer Receives National RecognitionChuck Mirasola, a

volunteer at the Bay Pines VA Health-care System, received a national award from the National Council of Hospice and Pal-liative Professionals (NCHPP) during the organization’s clinic team conference in Orlando, Fla. on Nov. 6. The event was held at the Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. The 71-year-old U.S. Army veteran was one of only three volunteers recognized nationally for receiving the NCHPP’s “Volunteers are the Foundation of Hospice Award,” for his commitment and service to Veterans and their families during his time as a volunteer in the facility’s hospice and palliative care unit.

Originally from Buffalo, N.Y., Mira-sola served in the U.S. Army from 1963 – 65. Mirasola started volun-teering at the Bay Pines VA in 1997 shortly after a 35-year career at the Ford Motor Com-pany. He volunteered in locations all over the facility to include grounds keeping, the information desk and patient transport. Then, about eight years ago, he started volunteering in the hospice and palliative care unit.

“I wanted to volunteer in the hospice unit because of the safe and caring environment,” said Mirasola. “Remarkable things happen on the hospice unit every day—I wanted to be part of that and thought that I could make a difference.”

Since his time in the unit, Mirasola has completed more than 12,500 hours of volunteer work performing various tasks from cooking and serving food to listening to war stories, consoling families and honoring the memory of those veterans who pass away. While his jobs are many, Mirasola said his favorite part of volunteering is being able be there for all veterans, but especially those who do not have family available to visit them during the last days of their lives. “I like to be someone (veterans) can talk to; someone they can trust and feel comfortable with,” he said. “It gets pretty emotional sometimes, but I feel like I have a responsibility to take care of them during a time when they may feel uncertain and scared. Sometimes you only have to listen, and that makes all the difference.” Beth Whidden, a nurse man-ager on the unit, described Mirasola as a vital member of the hospice team and someone who is a “shining star and pillar of support” for veterans, their families and hospice employees.

“Chuck goes above and beyond his duties as a volunteer every day,” she said. “He is a special and caring person that has a real connection with the veterans who come to our unit. While he won’t admit it, he is more than deserving of the recognition he will receive in November and we are all proud of him.” Mirasola is one of approximately 1,450 volunteers currently enrolled through the Bay Pines VAHCS Voluntary Service program. Like Mirasola, these volunteers dedicate their time to veterans and their families while completing various tasks and functions to include park-ing lot attendants, shuttle drivers, clerical support, patient transport, appointment reminder phone calls, voting assistance and much more. To learn more about how to volunteer your time or donate to the Bay Pines VA, please visit baypines.va.gov/giving.

Chuck Mirasola, Bay Pines VA Volunteer


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January at the DaliCheck out the Dali Museum this month:

8 and 9 The Year of Magical Thinking by Joan Didion. $20/senior. 7 p.m.

10 Dali Condensed – Dali’s Early Years (1910s – 1920s) 6 p.m. $5.

12 Film: Prospero’s Books.1 p.m. Free

15 Persistence of Memory Memoir Writing: Finding

Memoir Momentum, by Margo Hammond. 10:30 a.m. $65.

17 The Genius Next Door: An inter-active evening with the brightest

minds in St. Petersburg. $5. 6 p.m.

19 Film: Romeo & Juliet. 1 p.m. Free

26 Film: Rosencrantz and Guil-denstern are Dead. 1 p.m. Free.

Information: (727) 823-3767

New Book by Local AuthorMy Buddha Wears

Bifocals, a new book by Kathleen Sands of St. Pete Beach, is full of insights into the joys and dilemmas of being a baby boomer. Sands takes the reader with her through loves lost and found, career insights and life-changing

situations with and about her parents. She shares her insights about her mid-life body and emotions. As she writes, “We come to love our story, if we are lucky, precisely because it is our own.” Fellow boomer women will identify with Sands and her travels into the next stageof life.

Live Your Retirement DreamIf you’ve been thinking about making

Florida your home, look no further than Island In The Sun in Clearwater. This active 55+ housing com-munity offers an array of amenities that include a swimming pool and spa, shuffleboard, billiards room, library, state-of-the-art fitness center and community center. But what makes Island In The Sun stand out most is its friendly staff and dedication to meeting the needs of its residents. The community offers onsite management, 24/7.“I want visitors to know that we put residents first,” says Scott Brown, regional sales manager. “We have a wonderful community manager named Robin Grimm who lives there. We feel it is important that whoever runs the community also lives in the community.” Island In The Sun offers double-wide manufactured housing in a variety of styles, as well as lots for custom housing and annual and seasonal rental proper-ties. Houses average around $18,000.

Current special: purchase a home and receive three months free lot lease.

Activities The large community center is a hub for Island- and resident-sponsored clubs and events. You’ll find card games, crafts, bingo, dancing, dinners and social events. And the adventure doesn’t end there—you’re only a short drive away from sunny beaches and local attractions like Busch Gardens, Disney World, the Buccaneer stadium,Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center and much more. It’s the perfect location to enjoy a retirement filled with fun and relaxation. Brown invites you to take a tour and experience the Island In The Sun difference yourself. “I think it’s very important when someone is looking for a place to live, that they talk not only to the salesperson and community manag-er, but to the residents as well,” he said. “Our residents are our best salespeople.” To learn more or schedule a tour, call 1-888-523-1810.


New BooksArt

If you got “too soon old” without learning to be a great artist,

here’s help. The Wrinklies’ Guide to Drawing: New Pursuits for Old Hands by Richard Pomfret is a an easy-to-follow manual to help mature readers exercise their brains and try something new. The book begins with basic drawing techniques and advice on materials and goes on to cover drawing land-scapes, animals, cartoons and still life. Other “Wrinklies” easy guide books include The Wrinklies Guide to Gardening, The Wrinklies Guide to Home Computing and The Wrinkl-ies Guide to Keeping Supple.

iPads AARP’s book iPad: Tech to Connect takes the complex little flat-screen iPad and teaches how to tap, swipe and pinch to get places. Then it shows and tells how to download apps and connect with friends before advising on ways to protect and secure the little machine. Large text and clear visuals make the book easy to use.

Caregiving Dr. Ruth’s Guide for the Alzheimer’s Caregiver by Dr. Ruth Westheimer is the author’s simple, straightfor-ward message for caregiv-ers: You are not alone. The book includes resources, strategies, tips, tricks and attitudes to create the most supportive environment pos-sible for both patient and caregiver. She deals with behavior management, home safety, doctor interaction and facilities.

Computers The easiest way to get what you want from your computer is to use The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Using Your Computer—for Seniors. This book is packed with what a beginner needs to know to get started in every aspect of computers. It is written to be understood and is full of practical, easy tips and instructions.

Money If you now have time to learn money management, you might like Managing Retirement Wealth, An Expert Guide to Personal Portfolio Management in Good Times and Bad by Julie Jason. The author is a portfolio manager who includes real-life scenarios, rewards, risks and direction for a variety of in-

vestments. The book is written to help retirees establish a system to get on course and stay on course with goals.

{{Book Giveaway!

We’re giving these books away! Email your name, mailing

address, phone number and the title of the book you are

interested in winning [email protected]

(subject: Book Giveaway) or send by snail mail to Attn: Book Giveaway,

News Connection USA, Inc., P.O. Box 638, Seffner, FL 33583.

We will draw a name for each of the five books on Jan. 22. Winners will be announced

in our February issue.


Options abound for taking exciting winter vacations, whether to

mild or snowy climates. Here’s a roundup of ideas to take advantage of.

Yellowstone “Lodging & Learning”

The Yellowstone Association Institute (YAI) offers five “Lodg-ing and Learning” sessions in the winter. Sponsored in part by the Yellowstone National Park Lodges and Xanterra Parks & Resorts (the managing company of park lodging, restaurants and activities), vacation packages offer accommodations in either Old Faithful Snow Lodge or Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel. Rick Hoeninghausen, a director for the program, says, “Our wildlife viewing, cross-country skiing and geology all stand alone as world-class, but combined they create an unparalleled experience.” Each program includes accom-modations, some meals and a “Snow Card” good for 10 percent off meals, in-park transportation, tours, ski shop services and most retail items. Some Lodging & Learning package components vary based on location. Choose from the following: Old Faithful Winter Expedition (from $1,075/per person/double) Winter Wildlife Expedition for the wildlife observers (from $665)

Winter In Wonderland–Yellowstone on Skis for five days of cross-country ski trails (from $1,995)Winter Wolf Discovery (from $705)Winter in Wonderland park exploration (from $1,385) Getaway Packages and Adventure Packages have different options and prices. Info at 1-307-344-7311 or 866-439-7375 or on their website at YellowstoneNationalParkLodges.com.

Chinese New Year Parade One of the top 10 parades in the world, this year over 100 units will participate in the Chinese New Year Parade in San Francisco on February 23, 2013. A San Francisco tradition since just after the Gold Rush, the parade continues to delight and en-tertain the many people who come to watch it on the street (or buy bleacher seats on the parade route). Now sponsored by Southwest Airlines, it is one of the few remaining night illuminated parades in the country. Nowhere in the world will you see a lunar new year parade with more gorgeous floats, elaborate costumes, ferocious lions, exploding firecrack-ers, and of course the newly crowned Miss Chinatown U.S.A. and her court. One entry loved by everyone is the spectacular 268-foot-long Golden

Luxury in the Canadian Rockies

If you want winter with everything taken care of in grand style, book a winter escape to The Fairmont Banff Springs with genuine Rocky Mountain adventure. Spend your day snowshoeing on top of the world in magnificent Banff National Park or dogsledding in the wilderness of the Canadian Rockies. Then escape to the ultimate in comfort and relaxation at The Fairmont Banff Springs resort.

Originally built in 1888 and modelled after a Scottish castle, the hotel has constructed its own upscale version of a mineral pool infused with healing salts from thermal waters in Europe. There’s also an outdoor heated pool and jacuzzi. The hotel offers choices from cozy rooms tucked away in quiet corners of the castle all the way to spacious suites with panoramic mountain views. The Fairmont Banff Springs hotel’s Willow Stream Spa is considered the most deluxe spa in the Canadian Rockies. The spa can be a place to spend your days in indoor luxury relaxation or combined with days outside in vigorous activities. No hurry! Winter lasts several more months in Banff. See package prices at fairmont.com/ banff-springs.

Dragon (“Gum Lung”) It takes a team of over 100 men and women from the martial arts group White Crane to carry this dragon throughout the streets of San Francisco. For info, go to chineseparade.com and make your reservations today!

Rodeo San Antonio Dig out the cowboy hat, shine the belt buckle and put on those boots that were made for walkin’ as you head for the mild weather in San Antonio and the annual Stock Show and Rodeo Feb. 7 through 24. You’ll find a roster including 21 rodeo performances, star-studded entertainment as well as a Cowboy Golf Classic, a Texas BBQ Cookoff, and the Go Rodeo Ball. All of the Rodeo staples are included: Grand Entry, Saddle Bronc Riding, Tie-Down Roping, Barrel Racing, Bullriding, Calf Scramble, Steer Wrestling and Mutton Bustin’. Get all the details and order event tickets online at sarodeo.com.

Great Vacation Ideas

Travel

The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, Alberta, Canada


One mile “FUN” Walk around Florida State Fairgrounds Walkers Receive: T-Shirt, Continental Breakfast,

& PRIZES to the Winners!

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In consideration of our acceptance of this entry, I for myself, my heirs, devises, executors, administrators and assign hereby waive, release, discharge any and all claims against Florida State Fairgrounds or News Connection USA, Inc., or anyone sponsoring or conducting this event or their employees, representatives or successors for any and all damages or injuries I may suffer. I hereby, grant permission for the free use of my name and pictures in any broadcast or account of this event.

Jan. 23, 2013Florida State Fairgrounds,

4800 Hwy. 301 N. • Tampa, FL 33610Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. Warm Up by Silver & FitWalk starts at 9:15 a.m., $3 minimum donation for local Meals On Wheels.Please make checks payable to: News Connection USA, Inc.

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Six Hidden Benefits of ExercisePhysically, when you find you can

no longer climb stairs or walk eas-ily from the car to the mall door, it’s time to look to exercise. Otherwise, “It’s possible to find yourself getting into a downward spiral of less and less physical activity,” writes Dr. Miriam Stoppard in her book Defying Age. The benefits of exercise go far beyond how your clothes fit and keep-ing major diseases like high blood pressure and heart disease at bay. These six hidden benefits of exercise go a long way toward keeping your body, mind and spirit younger longer. With regular physical exercise, you will…Look good! Exercise produces younger look-ing, more blemish-free skin: “The increase in cir-culation and perspiration that occurs with exercise delivers more nutrients to your skin while allowing impurities and waste to be removed,” says Dr. Eudene Harry, author of Live Younger in 8 Simple Steps. “The result? A healthier complexion!”Feel great! Physical activity releases endor-phins, the brain chemicals that boost your mood and make you feel happy. They relieve stress and enhance your self-esteem and self-confidence. Ex-ercise has also been shown to increase neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which give the body a natural high and promote better sleep. Any type of physical activity increases the rate at which antibodies flow through the blood stream, resulting in better immunity against sickness. The increased temperature generated during moderate exercise makes it difficult for certain infectious organisms to survive.Eat well! Exercise controls your appetite, according to Dr. Stoppard. We have an appestat in our brains, which is a switch that tells us when we’re full and should stop eating. Exercise turns it on (stop eating!).

Another effect of exercise is that the muscles tell the brain what they need—and it won’t be fat and sugar. Rather, burning calories will send you toward vitamin-rich fruits and veggies and complex carbs.Think clearly! Scientists believe that exercise is good for the brain by enhancing the heart’s function, which means there’s a richer supply of blood for your memory and mental function. Stand tall! In your 20s, you stood erect; in your 60s, if you stand tall, straighten your shoulders and hold your head up, you can take ten years

off your age because back, neck, abdominal and pelvic muscles are toned and strong. Dr. Stoppard also says that erect posture is protection against developing backache, digestive problems and heart disease. An erect spine means lungs work more efficiently and the feet are steadier. Just like your mother told you, stand up straight.

Be constipated? Heavens, no! Exercise increases the contractions of the wall of the intestine, helping to move things along through the intestinal tract more easily and decreasing the time it takes to pass through the large intestine. Dr. Harry advises waiting an hour or two after eating before exerting your-self since exercising too soon after a meal can divert blood flow away from the gut and toward the muscles, weak-ening peristaltic contractions (and slowing down the digestion process).

Dr. Harry includes the usual caveat for exercising: Talk to your doctor and do not overdo exercising or you won’t see all of these benefits. And research shows that asking a friend to join you in an exercise program increases socialization, a key factor in overall wellbeing and feelings of optimism.


17th Join us on:February 26, 2013Doors open inside 9 am – 1 pm

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BY MARK PILARSKI

Dear Mark: I was recently play-ing blackjack at one of Detroit’s

casinos, and I was dealt a blackjack with the dealer showing an ace. I opted not to take “even money” as I had always thought you shouldn’t take insurance. After checking her hole card and turning over a face card for a dealer blackjack, the dealer told me I was wrong, that it was not the same as insurance, that it was free money. Was the dealer correct? Also, I recently had another situ-ation and wonder if what I did was correct. Playing blackjack again, the dealer inadvertently pulled two cards and dealt them both to the first player. She called over the pit boss who proceeded to give the top (first) card to the first player, burned the second card and then had the dealer continue dealing the rest of the hands, including her own. The pit boss then gave everyone at the table the option of playing their hand or pulling back their bet and folding their hand. The dealer showed a face card. Everyone at the table, except me, pulled back. I had a hard 18. I figured that was a decent hand and gambled I’d have a chance to win. I didn’t. What should I have done? —Suzanne R.

When I pitched cards, it amazed me how many players jumped on the opportunity of taking even money, or insurance, when I showed an ace. Except for counting cards, making either of these wagers is fiscally not a sound move, even if, as in your case, being dealt a blackjack. The reason being, Suzanne, ten-point cards (10, J, Q, K) make up 31 percent of the deck,

so there is a 69 percent chance that the dealer does not have a blackjack. Add to that you are sitting on one ten-point card, and with a quick scan of the table, you will probably note addition-al ten-point cards; consequently, the chances now become even greater than 69 percent that the dealer doesn’t pos-sess one. Therefore, Suzanne, based on the 3 to 2 payoff that you receive for a blackjack, even if you possess a snap-per, you will make more money over the long run by never taking insurance or even money. Suzanne 1, Dealer 0. As to your second question, when your dealer’s handicraft at dealing cards falters, the dealer is not the one who settles any squabble. All authoritative moves are made by a pit boss. Now, switching hats and speaking as a former pit boss, my decision would have duplicated the one you received. That is not to say that different pit bosses couldn’t render contrary conclusions. All the same, giving everyone at the table the opportunity to withdraw their wagers was something I always did. Further, on your second question, an 18 against a face card will NOT make you a long-term winner at blackjack; so, you actually should have pulled your bet. Even a 19 will lose more often than win when the dealer’s upcard is a 10 or an ace. What

constitutes a strong hand are those 20’s, which you didn’t get. With a 10-10 against any dealer’s upcard, this is where you make money over the long run. Approximately, 70 percent of your overall winnings at blackjack result from these two hands: 10-10 and A-10. Next time a pit bull playing gambling referee corrects a dealer gaff and gives you

this same opportunity, yank your bet. The House 1, Suzanne 0.

Gambling Wisdom of the Week: “Retirement is like a long vacation in Las Vegas. The goal is to enjoy it the fullest, but not so fully that you run out of money.” —Jonathan Clements. (SENIOR WIRE)

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Television Acoustics Breakthrough ➻The private TVlistening systemyou’ll want touse… even ifthere’s no oneelse in the room!This new Personal TV Listening System (PTLS)can help millions get more outof their favorite past time.

If there is one thing people like to argueabout… it’s television. Even if they can agree what to watch, most people

disagree about the volume. That’s becausemost people require different volume levels, in order to understand and enjoytheir favorite shows and movies. What’smore, if one of them is doing somethingelse, like reading or sleeping– the last thingthey want to hear is a blaring television.When forced to compromise and listen toTV at the same volume– everyone loses.Now, thanks to innovative digital audiotechnology, anyone can listen to the TV at the volume they desire without disturbing others. Best of all… the audio isso spectacular you’ll want to use it all the time. Here are a few reasons why the PTLS is the best thing to happen to television since the remote.

High Definition Audio.TV video technology has improved dramatically in the past few years, but the audio quality has remained relativelyunchanged. Unlike other comparable systems, PTLS provides performance quality stereo sound (up to 120dB)–putting you in the acoustic sweet spot ofthe room– no matter where you are sitting.

Fully Customizable. The Adjustable Digital Tone controlenhances dialogue clarity and intelligibilityto suit your hearing. You’ll hear everythingfrom stage whispers to lifelike sound effects.

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New Fantasyland, Art of Animation Resort Open at Walt Disney World

Disney has been busy over the past several years, cooking up magical

new ways to experience the parks. The latest addition has been to the Magic Kingdom, which recently held a grand opening for the New Fantasyland. The renovation walls have come down to reveal an expan-sion and reimagining of the iconic Fantasyland that includes new char-acters, stories, rides and restaurants. “Walt Disney once promised that Disneyland, and by extension all of our parks, would never be complete as long as there is imagination left in the world,” said Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Tom Staggs. “New Fanta-syland is a spectacular addition to the Magic Kingdom that delivers on Walt’s promise. We’re thrilled to take guests beyond the walls of Cinderella Castle to discover new worlds featuring iconic Disney characters and stories in ways that are more imaginative, more interactive and more immersive than ever before.” Visitors can travel under the sea with Ariel on the Little Mermaid ride or fly with Dumbo in an expanded version of the original favorite. The Barn-stormer Featuring the Great Goofini coaster takes miniature thrill-seekers

on a ride over the big top, while the Princess Fairytale Hall gives guests a chance to meet and greet their favorite princesses. Guests can also take in a circus performance with Mickey and the gang at Pete’s Silly Sideshow. Beauty and the Beast’s castle is a dra-matic new addition to the skyline. Visitors can dine inside at the Be Our Guest Restaurant, enjoy “LeFou’s Brew” at Gaston’s Tavern or take part in the story themselves at Enchanted Tales with Belle.

Stay and Play The Art of Ani-mation, Disney’s newest resort, invites guests to stay in the worlds of “Finding Nemo,” “The

Lion King,” “The Little Mermaid” and “Cars” after a day at the theme parks. Specially-themed rooms, family suites and hotel exteriors show the process of building an animated world from sketch, ink and color to 3D. Favorite characters come to life in play areas and pools, and the hotel also offers an arcade, pool bar, gift shop, snack bar and food court, as well as free transportation to the theme parks. This three-story value resort offers family suites (two bathrooms, kitchenette and three sleeping areas) from $248/night, and standard rooms from $94. To learn more about Walt Disney World parks and resorts, to purchase tickets or make a room or dining reservation, call (407) 934-7639.

MOMENTS LIKE THESE ARE PRECIOUS. DON’T LET THEM FADE AWAY.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in people 55+, and early detection is key to saving your sight.

Protect your vision from fading away. Call the Foundation Fighting Blindness today for a free AMD information packet.

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BRIDGE BITESFrom The

American ContractBridge League

We’ve Got You Surrounded

BY BRIAN GUNNELL

Perhaps East should have tried 5♦ over 4♠; that would be a cheap

sacrifice if 4♠ is making. Instead, she guesses to defend and must find a nice defensive play if she is to justify her shyness in the bidding. You are that shy East, so try looking at only the N-E hands. West leads the ♦K, won by Declarer’s Ace. A Diamond is ruffed in Dummy, followed by a Spade to Declarer’s Ace. Then a Club to Dum-my’s Jack and your Queen. What next? At this point, you cannot play a Club or a Diamond without blowing a trick, so you must shift to a Heart. Which Heart? It seems routine to play a low Heart, but let’s stop and think.

If Declarer has the ♥K it won’t matter what you do, so let’s assume that West has the King. If West has the ♥J to go along with that King, then you can shift to any old Heart; again, it won’t matter. So the case to worry about is the one you see looking at all four hands. Look what happens if you shift to a low Heart. Dummy plays low, West must play the King, losing to the Ace. That’s only one Heart loser for Declar-er. The required shift is the Heart Ten! Your Ten and Eight have Dummy’s Nine “surrounded” and that’s what makes the surprising shift to the Ten the winning play. The Ten is covered by the Jack, King and Ace, after which East’s Q8 sits over Dummy’s 92, pro-viding two Heart tricks for the defense. Surrounding plays don’t happen every day, and are easy to miss in the heat of battle. But now that you are an expert on the subject you will no doubt spot this one right away:

East’s J9 surrounds Dummy’s Ten and it is a shift to the Jack which is the winning play, picking up the whole suit. Visit acbl.org for more about the fascinating game of bridge or email [email protected]. To find a bridge club in Florida, go to district9acbl.org/D9Clubsmap.htm. Bridge article provided courtesy of St. Petersburg Bridge Club: www.stpetebridge.org.

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Introducing The 2013 Florida State Fair—“Discover The Fun”Celebrating the 500th anniversary

of the arrival of Juan Ponce De León in Florida, this year’s 109th Annual Florida State Fair fully embraces Florida: 500 Years in the Making with a “Discover the Fun” theme. From February 7 – 18, the Florida State Fair deserves a top spot on the calendar as THE go-to destination for fun in February.

The 2013 Florida State Fair is showcasing new and unique agricul-tural and cultural exhibits such as the new “Discovery Center,” a Tampa Bay History Center curated exhibit, and Florida Department of Agriculture’s new Traveling Exhibit. Get a map at the entrance and explore the “Con-quistaTOUR,” a self-guided adventure through the State Fair including the new Florida Cattlemen’s Museum, Florida’s Learning Garden and Cow Hunter’s Camp in Cracker Country. In addition, fairgoers will “Dis-cover Florida” with a Broadway-style musical performance certain to please those who want to learn more about Florida. And new this year, there is a concert series planned including Star-ship featuring Mickey Thomas and the Bellamy Brothers, among others. Fairgoers can also expect the traditional favorites such as thrilling rides, shopping in Expo Hall, arts and crafts, a giant sand sculpture, tropical fish and more Aquaculture,

the “Mooternity Ward,” horse shows, lots of animals, live entertainment and fun fair food from the traditional corn dog to crazy food on a stick. This year’s fair provides so many new ways to “Discover the Fun.” The Fair’s “COWquistador” logo provides a tribute to the European’s influence in the Sunshine State as well as a highlight of the state’s rich

agricultural heritage. “The 2013 Florida State Fair offers many cultural and agricultural highlights,” notes Charles Pesano, Executive Director of the Florida State Fair Authority. “We have added remarkable entertainment, fantastic exhibits and new features to this year’s State Fair that we know everyone of all ages will love.” “The Florida State Fair is not only a destination where families can find good food and great adventures; it’s also a celebration of

Florida’s rich agricultural heritage,” said Florida’s Commissioner of Agriculture, Adam Putnam. The Florida State Fair is a sure ticket to “Discover the Fun.” For 12 days in February, the Florida State Fair will captivate visitors with special discount days, making it sure to be an excellent overall value. The Fair will be held from February 7 – 18 at the Florida State Fairgrounds, 4800 U.S. Hwy. 301 North, Tampa 33610. Admission Tickets and Ride Armbands are $8 for adults or $4 for ages 6 – 11. Children 5 and under are free. Ride armbands are $25. You can purchase tickets online until February 6 at www.floridastatefair.com, or in person at Walgreens stores (beginning January 2) and at the Florida State Fairgrounds Box Office—discounts through Feb. 6. Parking is free. For more information, go to www.floridastatefair.com and Like them on facebook.com/floridastatefairgrounds.


Word Search JanuaryIn 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?

Send your answers along with your name, address and telephone number to:

NEWS CONNECTION USA, INC. P.O. BOX 638, SEFFNER, FL 33583

The first correct answers selected from the drawing on January 21 will win.WIN! WIN! WIN! GREAT PRIZES!

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

MYSTERY PRIZE!

MYSTERY PRIZE!

Word Search Answers

From December

Carol Masonis last month’s winner!

Congratulations!

If You’re So Smart, Prove It!

1. gulp, plug 2. guns, snug 3. spit, tips 4. pot, top 5. slap, pals 6. step, pets 7. stab, bats 8. rail, liar

9. garb, brag 10. tang, gnat

Back & ForthDetermine the pair of words associated with each pair of clues. One word in each pair is the other one spelled backwards. (Answers are upside down at the bottom.)

Example: brief sleep, used on a stove Answer: nap, pan1. big swallow, a stopper 2. firearms, tight3. mouth excretion, pointed ends 4. cooking container, child’s toy5. smack, friends 6. foot movements, home animals7. pierce, cave dwellers

8. roadside barrier, fibber 9. clothing, boast10. strong taste, insect

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

Mystery Prize!

Send your answers along with your name, address and telephone number to: NEWS CONNECTION USA, INC

P.O. BOX 638, SEFFNER, FL 33583WIN! WIN! WIN! GREAT PRIZES!(Sudoku must be received by Jan. 21, 2013.)

Last Month’s Answers December Sudoku

Sidney Bobb is last month’s winner!

Congratulations!

Win Great Prizes!New winner

selected each month Good Luck!


Pinellas County Fresh Fruits and Veggies

North

North

Central

Central

South

South

Money DOES Grow On TreesIf you’re wondering about add-

ing some landscaping to your property this winter, consider these facts, because it’s possible that money really DOES grow on trees. Landscaping can add between 7 and 15 percent to a home’s value. Mature trees can bring a recovery value of 100 to 200 percent at selling time. (Kitchen remodeling brings a 75 to 125 percent recovery rate, bathroom remodeling a 20 to 120 percent recovery rate, and the addition of a swimming pool a 20 to 50 percent recovery rate.) Landscaping can reduce temperatures by as much as 9 degrees Fahrenheit and can lower air conditioning costs by up to 50 percent by shading the windows and wall of a home. Trees can reduce bothersome noise by up to 50 percent and can mask unwanted noises with pleasant sounds.

How much does landscaping add if you’re planning to sell your house?

• Manicured, fancy gardens which will require time and money to tend usually won’t add to the offering price. (Landscaping like that is for your own enjoyment.) It may be a

$40,000 investment, but it won’t add $40,000 to the value of your house. The same goes for expensive fences and stone walls. They look nice, but buy-ers don’t pay up for them. • A house with no landscaping is unap-pealing. Conversely, you don’t have to spend a fortune on plants, either. Just keep it “typical with the neighbor-hood” say realtors.• Curb appeal. “A good first appearance on a home can add as much as 5 percent to 10 percent to the value of the home,” says John Aust, of the National Association of Real Estate Appraisers. “Homes in a neighborhood tend to vary about 10 percent from house to house, assum-ing all other things are the same.” Well-landscaped yards with mature trees and bushes that provide privacy not only fetch higher prices—they sell more quickly than houses with little or no landscaping, by impressing buyers before they even walk into a house.

• Shape unsightly or overgrown trees and shrubs. Regardless of the season, it’s a good idea to tackle any overlooked pruning chores because nothing says neglect like a bunch of dead branches. The idea is to show how well not only your house but your garden has been maintained.

Information from Gallup, Money magazine, American Public Power Association and Society of Real Estate Appraisers, frontdoor.com and bankrate.com).

Firearms Safety Courses OfferedThe Hernando Sportsman’s

Club is offering firearms safety classes Jan. 19, Feb. 6, Feb. 16 and March 6. A special “ladies only” firearms safety course will be held on March 16. Classes run 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. and cover firearms safety, pistol shoot-ing, live fire training on the range. All materials and equipment needed provided. Pre-registration required. Please call (352) 597-9931 to pre-register. Cost: $60. The class will be held at Hernando Sportsman’s Club, 16121 Commercial Way, Brooks-ville. hernandosportsmansclub.com.

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Seniors Getting TogetherTO RESPOND TO AN AD

Write a letter to the person you want to contact. Place that letter in a stamped en-

velope and write the ad number on the bot-tom left hand side of the envelope. Place

your stamped, numbered envelope(s), along with $2 for each letter enclosed, into

another envelope and address it to:News Connection USA, Inc.

Seniors Getting Together1602 S. Parsons Ave.,Seffner, FL. 33584

TO PLACE AN ADSend your ad, stating what category you

would like it placed in, your edition(s), along with a $6 fee for 30 words (25¢ for each additional word, abbreviations not charged) to the News Connection USA, Inc. address listed above. Ads received

by the 15th of the month will appear in the following issue. No more than three ads will be accepted each month per person. The editor reserves the right to edit any ads for

space or content. In order to protect our readers’ privacy, we will not include phone numbers, e-mail or home addresses in the ad copy. City or area included at no charge.

Enjoys dining out, travel, dancing and togetherness. St. Petersburg.4212 LADY SEEKING F + COM-PANION F, W, D ISO W gentleman, NS, wheelchair bound okay, as long as can drive and take care of self, likes dogs, sightsee, SOH, NDrg, picture please, age 60 – 75.4214 ISO ONE-WOMAN MAN Blonde, blue eyes, attractive, white, former model. 5’6”, 135 lbs, NS, ND, NDrg, 60. Enjoy all activities. ISO ro-mantic, handsome, financially secure man. LTR, 55+. Photo. Palm Harbor.4216 ATTRACTIVE ITALIAN SWF 65YY ISO youthful, sincere SWM. Possible LTR (age open). 5’2” HWP, size 10, R, NS, NDrg, honest, caring health-conscious, spunky, witty. Enjoy outdoors, daily exercise, music, dancing, candlelight meals, laughter, basic togetherness, romantic times. Zepyhrhills.

MEN SEEKING WOMEN

4187 LETS TALK W, M, D, 70, 6’, 190, healthy, exercise, NS,

WOMEN SEEKING MEN4119 SEEKING CHRISTIAN GENTLEMAN Former airline stewardess and model, 5’4”, 104 lbs., widow, slender, white with Ph.D. in healthcare. Fulbright scholar, eats healthy and exercises. Likes sports and animals. Loves the Lord. Florida.4178 SEEKING COMPATIBLE GENTLEMAN 55+ I’m 5’4”, 120, ISO sincere, NS, ND, understanding, FF and companion. I walk, read, sight-see, relax, music. HWP, picture. Looking for romance. Pasco County.4196 WOMAN SEEKING MAN W, WW, in good health, 70 – 79, HWP, SOH, loves fun times, ISO travel partner, cruises, day trips, movies, dining, dancing, NS, ND. Photo appreciated, has transportation. Brandon.4200 NORTH PINELLAS C, F, W, WW, R, NS, ND, NDrg, petite, attractive, energetic, creative, enjoy learning, economically minded, health conscious, ISO friendship and companionship.4210 AFFECTIONATE, ATTRACTIVE, SLENDER LADY seeks gentleman for friendship, dating and possible romance.

RUN YOUR AD FOR ONLY $6 A MONTHSENIORS GETTING TOGETHER

Personal Ad PlacementDeadline for ads is the 15th of the month prior to placement.

Mark The Edition(s) You Would Like To Run Your Ad In: Hillsborough & Suncoast (Pinellas/Pasco) Lake/Marion Counties

Southwest/Charlotte (Fort Myers/Port Charlotte)Ad Copy • Please Print Neatly • 30 Word Limit

If more room is needed, please use separate sheet. Mail this form along with$6 for each ad per month (add $4 for each additional edition/market in the same month).

We cannot accept your ad without it. This information is confi dential.

Name:

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

Only $6 to place an ad!

Title (First 4 Words):

City(No Charge):

ND, NDrg. You are attractive, slender or petite lady, W, S, NS, ND, NDrg.4193 GENTLEMAN, W, D, ISO LADIES who do not have children and are D, WW, S, W, NS, ND, NDrg, to start a group for people without children.4191 I WOULD LIKE TO MEET a woman in her late fifties or early sixties to go danc-ing, out to eat, go for walks and stay home to watch TV. Pasco County only.4207 SHARE LIFE’S TREASURES DWM, R, 74YY, SOH, 6’2”, 190 lbs., NS, ND, NDrg. ISO SFW with SOH for possible LTR (age open) to enjoy flea markets, oldies music, old movies and the simple life. (cats ok). Zephyrhills

Commonly Used Abbreviations:F-Female, M-Male, S-Single, D-Divorced, WW-Widow, A-Asian, B-Black, H-Hispanic, I-Indian, W-White, C-Christian, J-Jewish, YO-Years Old, YY-Years Young, ISO-In Search Of, SOH-Sense Of Humor, SM-Smokes, S-Light Smoker, NS-Non

Smoker, ND-Non Drinker, SD-Social (Light) Drinker, DR-Drinks, NDrg- No Drugs, LTR-Long

Term Relationship, HWP-Height & Weight Propor-tional, R-Retired, P-Professional, FF-Friendship

First, TLC-Tender Loving Care.

The $2.99 SpecialWe went to breakfast at

a restaurant where the ‘senior special’ was two eggs, bacon, hash browns and toast for $2.99.

“Sounds good,” my wife said. “But I don’t want the eggs.”

“Then, I’ll have to charge you $3.49 because you’re ordering a la carte,” the waitress warned her.

“You mean I’d have to pay for not taking the eggs?” my

wife asked incredulously. “YES!” stated the waitress.

“I’ll take the special then,”my wife said. “How do you want your eggs?” the waitress asked. “Raw and in the shell,” my wife replied. She took the two eggs home and baked a cake.

Writing or Responding toSeniors Getting Together Some tips that might help you orient

yourself to finding a new friend are:• Always be honest about who you are and never lie about your age. That kind of thing usually catches up with you sooner or later. • Boost your confidence by noting the number of good things that you personally have to offer a new relationship.

• Don’t search for an imitation or replacement for the partner that you have lost. • Have a sense of humor. Not everyone is playing with a full deck! • Take it one day at a time. Every “no” brings you to the next “yes.”


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Senior Connection • June 2005 • page 36

LEARN HOW TO PLAN FOR YOUR PETS IN AN EMERGENCY

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Frank GardnerCongratulations!

Seminole Senior Trips

January day trips with the Semi-nole seniors. Call Kristyn for

info: (727) 391-8345.

11 Chow Crowd to Wiregrass. $8 plus lunch. 10:30 a.m.

15 Mahaffey Titanic Exhibit $32/bus, admission, lunch.

11:30 a.m.

24 Lowry Park Zoo $26/bus, admission. 10 a.m.

28 Seminole Hard Rock Casino. $5/bus. 9 a.m.


727.892.3337 or www.FloridaOrchestra.orgFor group savings (10 or more) : 727.362.5443

Join The Florida Orchestra for

Music in the Morningsat one of our two matinee series!

Progress Energy Morning Masterworks

Tchaikovsky’s Romeo and JulietThe orchestra will perform Tchaikovsky’s sumptuous music inspired by Shakespeare’s plays. In collaboration with American Stage Theatre Company, actors will present a brief scene from each play as a prelude to the music. Andrew Grams conducts.

Fri, Jan 25, 10am Progress Energy Center for the ArtsMahaffey Theater

Coffee Concerts

War of the RomanticsEnjoy complimentary coffee and doughnuts with guest conductor Teddy Abrams leading the orchestra in a program of music by Beethoven, Brahms, Liszt, Wagner and more.

Wed, Feb 6, 10am Ruth Eckerd Hall

Thurs, Feb 7, 11am Progress Energy Center for the ArtsMahaffey Theater

2012/2013Season

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TFO-Lifestyle50-Jan.indd 1 12/6/2012 4:54:07 PM

Salutes To Shakespeare, Michael Jackson and MoreThis month, a Shakespeare

festival is being organized by The Florida Orchestra, the Dali Museum, American Stage Theatre and Studio@620 that includes art exhibits, lectures, happenings, concerts and more. On the Tampa Bay Times Masterworks series, guest conductor Andrew Grams will play his part in the Shakespeare Festival conducting an all-Tchaikovsky program showcasing music inspired by Shakespeare’s plays: Hamlet: Fantasy-Overture after Shakespeare; The Tempest: Fantasy-Overture; and Romeo and Juliet Overture-Fantasy. In collaboration with American Stage Theatre Company, actors will present a brief scene from each play as a prelude to the music. These concerts are January 25, 26 and 27 in Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater.

As part of the orches-tra’s new Rock series, the winner of E! Net-work’s reality TV series The Entertainer, singer James Delisco, revisits 40 years of Michael Jackson’s amazing career, singing such hits as ABC, I’ll Be There, Beat It, Thriller, Got To Be There, Rock With You, The Way You Make Me Feel and many more, all with a sizzling rock-

pop band and The Florida Orchestra under the baton of Brent Havens. This concert is Friday, January 18 at the Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg. For concert details or to order tickets, visit www.floridaorchestra.org or call (727) 892-3337 or 1-800-662-7286, Mon. – Fri., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. or Sat. and Sun., 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

James Delisco, Michael Jackson

tribute artist.

78th Annual Strawberry FestivalThe theme for this year’s Florida

Strawberry Festival is “Our Masterpiece of Fun.” Over the last 77 years, the festival has been working on a masterpiece that brings fun to folks of all ages through an exciting head-line entertainment lineup, competitive contests, youth events, free on-grounds entertainment, thrilling rides and, of course, delicious strawberries. At the Neighborhood Village, you can find homemade and handcrafted items created by folks in the commu-nity, as well as creative competitions. Little ones can enjoy rides and activities, the famous racing pigs, shows and shoebox float contest. And of course, the midway will come alive with rides, lights and all of your favorite food. Throughout the week, free enter-tainment will be offered onstage. Tickets will also be available for special performances from headline entertainers like Chubby Checker, Foreigner, Casting Crowns, Alan

Jackson, Dwight Yoakam, Martina McBride, Trace Adkins, Blake Shelton and more. For a complete listing of entertainers, dates and times, visit fl-strawberryfestival.com/headline.html.

The event will run from Feb. 28 – Mar. 10, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. at the Strawberry Festival Grounds, 303 North Lemon St., Plant City. For tickets and info, call (813) 754-1996. The 78th annual Florida Strawberry Festival will be better than ever, so visit and celebrate “Our Masterpiece of Fun” with some delicious straw-berry shortcake and a day of fun and laughter with your family and friends.


Participants must be at least 55 years young. Only solo & duet acts, no groups please. Please bring your own instruments and your own tape/cd or accompanist to the audition. A piano will be available. Audition on first-come first-serve basis. No Entry Fee to audition. Ten Acts will be chosen from the auditions to perform at the show!

For Information call: Pinellas: 727-329-2618 – Susan Juhl and Nicole Woodring

Hillsborough: 813-436-2296/813-436-2114 – Andrea White and Chrissy Crumpton

SENIOR IDOL SHOW - April 1, 2013 at 7 p.m. Ruth Eckerd Hall

1111 McMullen Booth Road • Clearwater, FL 33759

Pinellas Auditions: January 16 - 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Japanese Garden Mobile Estates19709 U.S. Highway 19 NorthClearwater, FL 33764-1006

Senior Talent Show: February 6, 2013 - 7:00 p.m.

Largo Cultural Center105 Central Park Drive • Largo, FL 33779

Hillsborough Auditions: January 23 - 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Brandon Community Center503 East Sadie Street • Brandon, FL 33510

February 16, 2013 - 3:00 p.m Spoto High School

8538 Eagle Palm Drive • Riverview, FL 33578

Senior Talent ShowFebruary 16, 2013 - 3:00 p.m.

Spoto High School8538 Eagle Palm Drive Riverview, FL 33578

A F T E R 50

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*You must continue to pay the Medicare Part B premium. The Zero Monthly Plan Premium only applies to the HMO and RPPO plans. Florida Blue is a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract. A Medicare-approved Part D sponsor. Limitations, copayments and restrictions may apply. The benefit information provided is a brief summary, not a complete description of benefits. For more information, contact the plan. Benefits, formulary, pharmacy network, premium and/or copayments/co-insurance may change on January 1 of each year. Florida Blue is a trade name of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida Inc., an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

Florida Blue is Florida’s Blue Cross and Blue Shield plan.

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Lifestyles After 50 Suncoast Jan. 2013 edition