lifestyles after 50 suncoast november 2013 edition

Lifestyles Vol. 24 November 2013AFTER 50

www.lifestylesafter50fl.com Suncoast FREE

Join us for the FUN FEST

Largo Cultural CenterNov. 13

10 am 3 pm

Branson Celebrates VeteransFeeling the Squeeze Holiday Fun at the Beau RivagePotatoes With A Twist

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Lifestyles After 50 November 2013 page 2

Neel Desai, MD

Stephen Weinstock, MD

LIVE LASER CATARACT SURGERY SEMINARYou may qualify for an intraocular lens that is designed to treat patients with a cataract who also have astigmatism. Learn how laser cataract surgery corrects astigmatism.

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New Technology Helps Patients See Like Never BeforeBY DAVID JEFFERY, Marketing Director, Eye Institute of West Florida

According to a recent Pew Research poll released in September, seniors 65 plus make up nearly half of non-internet users. That information may not be surprising to most; after all, we benefit from technology regardless of our level of interaction with computers or the internet. Whether its in the car you drive, the cash register at the grocery store or the health screening devices used in medical offices, technology is a daily part of our lives. Thankfully, what matters most about technology is the level of accuracy with which computers enable doctors to make crucial decisions about our health. You do not have to know much about the internet or computers to appreciate the speed at which computers can deliver highly accurate information. Lasers that analyze our bodies and computers that crunch miles of data in

a split second to produce information that affects the decisions doctors make about our health is nothing short of amazing. Take the Ocular Response Analyzer (ORA System) for instance. This innovative new operating room laser is what ophthalmologists use during cataract surgery to improve their decisions about your vision.

Borrowed from the Hubble Space Telescope, the ORA System uses laser technology to help guide the surgeons decision about which lens implant power to use when replacing the natural lens in the eye. It can also help determine if your vision is free of astigmatism that causes blurred vision. Cataract surgeons who offer the ORA

System no longer have to rely solely on pre-surgical measurements for these important decisions. With its on-demand analysis, doctors are able to achieve better patient vision outcomes with reduced dependency on glasses. The personal benefit we garner from computers should mean something whether we use computers and the

internet or not. How technology has advanced over the last 5 or 10 years has greatly improved our standard of living. This is especially true for those of us who grew up wearing glasses but are no longer dependent on them due to the ORA System. To learn more, call the Eye Institute of West Florida at 727-581-8706.

What matters most about technology is the level of

accuracy with which computers enable doctors to make crucial

decisions about our health.


President John F. Kennedy: Death in the Time of InnocenceDear Readers,

Most everywhere you turn this month, there will be reminders of that day 50 years ago when our innocence as a country was shat-tered, the day our 35th president was assassinated.John F. Kennedys 1000-day presidency ended in a few dramatic moments on a street in Dallas. The Kennedy era was a transforma-tive time for our country. We went from the staid, war-hero presidency of Eisenhower to the leadership of someone who lived a lifestyle known to only a narrow segment of our society at the time. The Kennedys played tennis, they sailed and they had houses in several parts of the country. Now, in 2013, many people live that way, but in 1960, not many did. Remembering that November period of time, it is as if the life drained out of our country for a few days. This month you will undoubtedly share your own memories with others.

Walter Cronkite Dallas, Texas, Friday, November 22, 1963. Time was about to stand still. CBS anchorman Walter Cronkitelater voted the most trusted man in Americahad the compelling duty to report the shootings of President Kennedy and Texas Governor John

Connolly. Shortly after-ward, Cronkite removed his glasses and tearfully announced simply that President Kennedy had died at 1 pm Central Standard Time. Today, 50 years later, those of us of a certain age remember vividly where we were and what we were doing when we learned the news. Jim Patterson, CEO of this magazines publishing company, says, To this day we remain fascinated by Ken-nedys life and legacy, intrigued by the circumstances of his death, enchanted by the associated imagery of Camelot and changed forever by all of it. For many, the news came via a schools crackling intercom system. Patterson says, Lucy Bigham bolted from the chair in front of me and ran from the room in tears. Mr. Bunch sat behind his desk at the front of the room, his face buried in both hands, sobbing. Patterson would see his own father weep that night as well. It was also a new time of tragedy for our country because we watched events unfold in the living room on television. Nancy Kuehne, our magazines sales and marketing representative in Lee County, says, The small, two-room school I went to did not have a TV, so a parent invited all 15 students from grades ve through eight to come to their house

to watch. I remember feeling as if I were right there in the crowd watch-ing from the streets. Nancy added something else we all rememberhow quiet everyone was. Yes, it was a new era and it changed us all. Patterson was in 9th grade that day Mr. Bunch sat at his desk and sobbed. Three sum-mers later, Patterson was

in Washington serving as a Congres-sional page in the House of Represen-tatives. He says, I associated all of the sights of Washington with those I had seen on television that November weekend of 1963. I toured the White House and tried to imagine President Kennedys and Jackies presence in every room. I visited the Senate chamber and sat in the seat that was his when he served as the senator from Massachusetts and which was now lled by his brother Edward (Ted) Kennedy. I went to Arlington Cemetery and stood before the eternal ame and played back the images of Jackie, Bobby and Teddy lighting that ame on the day of the funeral. And so this month, through the death of a president 50 years ago, we are bonded together by our shared memories. It seems so very recentlyand yet so long agothat we were so innocent we never thought it could happen.

Janice Doyle, Editor

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RETURNING TO TAMPA IN A DAZZLING ALL-NEW SHOW!

LET CHRISTMAS SHINE!

Tickets: 813.229.STAR (7827) STRAZCENTER.ORG Outside Tampa Bay: 800.955.1045 Group Sales (10+ get a discount): 813.222.1016 or 1018

Events, days, dates, times, performers and prices are subject to change without notice.

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5 Managing Your Money workshop helps you set goals and budget for needs, wants and savings. Participants can request a Florida Master Money Mentor personal coach to help with questions. 1 to 3 pm at Palm Harbor Library, 2330 Nebraska Ave. Free; Registration required at 727-582-2104.

6 Divorce Care Class and Support Group. Help and healing for individuals facing divorce or separa-tion. 6 pm at Pasadena Community Church, 227 70th St. S, St. Petersburg. $15 registration fee. 727-437-6222.

6 Lunch and opera entertainment at The Pinellas Opera Leagues monthly meeting. 11 am; Dunedin Country Club, 1050 Palm Blvd. $20. RSVP to Nancy at 727-738-4007.

7 Community Health Fair. Free health screenings and info on heart health, joint care, diabetes, nutrition, cancer and more. Zumba and Silver Sneakers classes. Free. 9 am at Center for the Performing Arts, 4951 78th Ave. N, Pi-nellas Park. 727-541-0805, ext. 2306.

8 Free Classic Movie Matinee. 1 pm at Seminole Community Library, 9200 113th St. N. 727-394-6905.

9 Dunedin Dogtoberfest. Pet costume contest, rescue groups with adoptable dogs, pet-themed vendors, a beer garden and food and beverages. Free; $4 parking. 11:30 am, Highlander Park, 1920 Pinehurst Rd., Dunedin. 727-786-1330.

14 Citrus Tree Gardening class. 2 pm and 6:15 pm at Palm Har-bor Library, 2330 Nebraska Ave. Free; register by 11/13 at 727-582-2603.

15 Quit Smoking Now program. Participants will receive a workbook and free nicotine patches. Meet weekly, 12:30 to 1:30 pm for six weeks at East Library, 2251 Drew St., Clearwater. Register: call Gulfcoast North AHEC at 813-929-1000.

15 Senior Excursions. Grab your friends and explore a variety of places in the Tampa Bay Area. All

excursions leave from the St. Petersburg Community Center, 7701 Boca Ciega Dr. $12 $15. Details at 727-363-9245.

19 Cooking Class with Rita Fabula. Plates to Share From Around the World, As We All Are Thankful. Learn how to make meze from Tur-key, antipasto from Italy and pinchos from Spain. 1:30 pm at Beach Library, Clearwater Beach. 727-462-6138.

20 Safety Harbor Garden Club presentation on the Serenity Gar-dens of Japan with artist Noriko Kuehn. 9:30 am at the Safety Harbor Library, 101 2nd St. N., Safety Harbor. Refresh-ments, plant exchange. 727-726-6159.

20 Veterans Day Golf Tournament, benefits Dunedin Childrens Christmas Fund. $75/person, four-person scramble, singles welcome. 8:30 am at Dunedin Golf Club. Entry forms at rocketsports-ent.com. 727-510-7888.

27 POW Support Group. Gather in the fellowship of other POW survivors for a monthly ceremony to honor MIAs and military heroes. The group meets at 10:30 am every fourth Weds. at the cafe in CARES Musunuru Center, 12417 Clock Tower Parkway, Hudson. 727-863-6868.

28 Times Turkey Trot, Wingding, Fun Run, Gobbler and Clear-water Challenge. Fun runs and canned good drive to benefit local charities. First race starts at 7 am at Clearwater High School, 540 S. Hercules Ave. Register/more info at 727-562-4700.

29 Jan. 3 Oakdale Christmas Light Display. 1/2 million lights, carnival rides, artificial snow, fiber-optic forest, tours, parades and more. Free, 6 pm to 10 pm at 2719 Oakdale St. S., St. Petersburg.

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. November 10 for December event.)

Around TownW H A T S H A P P E N I N G N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 3

Second Time Arounders Will March at the Cherry Blossom Parade

Its getting closerSt. Petersburgs own Second Time Arounders Marching Band will be marching in the Na-tional Cherry Blossom Parade in Washington D.C. in April of 2014 with an exceptional per-formance opportunity! A rare invitation has been extended to the Second Time Arounders Marching Bandthe chance to perform a show in front of the grandstands, live on televisionduring the National Cherry Blossom Parade. Marching bands are typically not allowed this few minutes of fame; however, the uniqueness and repu-tation of the Rounders has changed that! They did it for Macys and theyll do it for the National Cherry Blossom Parade! Their performance will be filled with patriotism and Americana, powerful music, an abundance of red, white and blue, plus stunning visual effects that

will leave the crowd proud Americans and smiling from ear to ear! Now is a great time to join the Rounders if youve ever marched in a high school, college, or military marching band! The Rounders perform locally, nationally and

internationally. Their most recent perfor-mance was in the Conch Republic parade in Key West, and their most notable was their trip to march in the Macys Thanksgiving Day Parade in 2008. 32 years in the making, and about 450 members strong, the Second Time Arounders Marching Band is the first all-ages band in the country. Its members range from age 18 85. The band proudly supports arts and music programs in local schools. For more info on the band, the trip in 2014, who they are and how to join, visit www.secondtimearounders.org.


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JSA Medical Group is the areas largest provider of primary health care services to the Medicare population. We have won numerous awards for excellence in the delivery of primary health care services. In addition, JSAs quality care standards consistently exceed the National averages. JSA is committed to providing quality healthcare, well care and preventive care for each of our patient members. Find out how you can become a JSA member by visiting our website.

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We have over 30 JSA and JSA Affiliate physician offices in the Suncoast area alone!

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Lifestyles After 50 Fun Fest Offers Great Entertainment, Education and InformationJoin us Wed. Nov. 13 for the 9th annual Lifestyles After 50 Fun Fest at the Largo Cultural Center, located at 105 CentralPark Dr. Largo, from 10 am to 3 pm. Come out early before the event starts for the Fun Walk at 9:15 am. Start off with a warm-up with Silver Sneakers then enjoy the 1-mile Fun Walk around Largo Central Park. There is a $4 minimum donation to help support the local Meals on Wheels program. Walkers will enjoy a continental breakfast, prizes and T-shirts to the first 100 walkers, and grand prizes to the winners on the day of the Walk! Send in your walk forms now. Registration starts at 8:45 that morning.

Doors Open Inside at 10 am This free event features Senior Friendly exhibitors with information on services, lifestyles, health, travel and more. Free coffee and goodies will be offered throughout the day. Enjoy a Senior Friendly Lunch for only $5 along with other choices from Mr. Ricks BBQ. At noon there will be a special ceremony for our veterans presented by the Largo VFW Honor Guard on the main stage in the park.

blood pressure, vein and memory checks along with other important health screenings and information.

Games and Prizes Activities of the day include free bingo games in the theater. Try your sports skills to win prizes outside. Dont miss the Prize-A-Palooza with Vicki! There will be chances to win $100 throughout the day on the main stage, along with a drawing for a two-night stay at the Gaylord Palms Orlando. The Grand Prize drawing at the end of the day will be a two-night stay at the Beau Rivage Resort and Casino in Biloxi, including round trip airline tickets, compliments of the St. Peters-burg-Clearwater International Airport. Admission and parking are free. For more info, call 813-653-1988 or 1-888-670-0040 or visit our website atLifestyles After50fl.com. See you there!

Entertainment Enjoy live performances on stage throughout the day. This year we celebrate the Fun Fest with Denise Looney, The DJ with a Twist! as well as the fabulous Richie Merritt of the Marcels along with Nashville singing sensation William Duece Hulett, and our favorite Safety Harbor

fireman, Russell Cortese, as Elvis. Besty Verdier will perform country and yodeling. Of course, Fritzy the One Man Circus will be amazing as always. And theres more This is your chance to get a Fab-TAT-stic temporary tattoo of your choice or a caricature of yourself.

Health Screenings Free health screenings will include bone density, glucose, eye, hearing,

Salute Our Veterans!

99-Year Old an InspirationWe salute one of our Floridas best! Health-ways SilverSneakers Fitness Program recently honored Ruth Myers of Hudson as a 2013 Richard L. Swanson Inspiration Award finalist. The award honors SilverSneakers members whose healthy be-havior has made a difference in his or her own life while

motivating others. Meyers attends SilverSneakers classes to keep healthy physi-cally and mentally and also uses the classes as a social outlet, making and bonding with new and old friends. Myers takes her Silver Sneakers classes at FamilyFitness Center, 8846 SR 52in Hudson.

Military Members Meet12 Military Officers Wives Club sponsors a luncheon on the second Tuesday of each month at Pasadena Yacht & Country Club, 6300 Pasadena Point Blvd., Gulfport. Social hour begins at 11:30 am, lunch at 12:15. All former, retired and active military officers wives, widows and female officers are invited to attend. Reservations are necessary, call 727-397-4146 or 727-399-1272.

15 The Military Officers As-sociation meets for lunch on the third Friday of each month. Social hour starts at 11 am followed by lunch and a short program. Military officers that are retired, active duty or former officers and their spouses or widows are invited to attend at Banquet Masters, 8100 Park Blvd., Pinellas Park. Reservations are necessary. Call CDR Bill Bolin at 727-584-1595.


Humana is a Medicare Advantage HMO plan with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in this Humana plan depends on contract renewal. The benefit information provided is a brief summary, not a complete description of benefits. For more information contact the plan. Limitations, copayments, and restrictions may apply. Benefits, premium and/or copayments/co-insurance may change on January 1 of each year. You must continue to pay your Medicare Part B premium. A sales person will be present with information and applications. For accommodation of persons with special needs at sales meetings, call Humana Sales at 1-800-552-0776 (TTY: 711), 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., 7 days a week. Applicable to Humana Gold Plus (HMO) plans: H1036-025, 052, 074, H1951-001. *Transportation to plan-approved locations, some limitations and restrictions may apply.Y0040_GHHHN6FEN Accepted TMP 11/13

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Gray Divorce: BY ROBERT D. BOYD AND JEANETTE LINVILLE

The term gray divorce describes the growing trend of couples in their 50s and older choosing to end their marriages by divorce. This phenomenon came into the public eye in 2004 when the AARP conducted a study called The Divorce Experience: A Study of Divorce at Midlife and Beyond. Since then, a number of high profile gray divorces have been played out in the media, including Al and Tipper Gore, who chose to split at the ages of 62 and 61, respectively, after four decades of marriage. Actors and executives alike, including Danny DeVito, Morgan Freeman, Sumner Redstone and Jack Welch, have all sought divorces in their 60s and 70s. However, these gray divorces are not limited to the rich and famous. The American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML) recently conducted an online poll of 1,600 divorce lawyers, and 61 percent reported that they have seen an increase in the number of divorces among people over age 50. This number is supported by research done by Susan L. Brown of the Department of Sociology

and National Center for Family & Marriage Research at Bowling Green State University. Brown found that the divorce rate among adults ages 50 and older doubled between 1990 and 2010. She further found that roughly one in four divorces in 2010 occurred to people ages 50 and older.

There are a variety of reasons why the divorce rate of Americans over the age of 50 is growing. Some attribute the trend to longer life spans and more people reaching the age of retirement. Others point to womens increasing financial independence. Couples often choose to wait until their children have left home to separate. In addition, it is now easier to get a divorce and there is a greater social acceptance of divorce. It may be the culture and ideology of the baby boomers that has caused the increase in gray divorces. As a genera-tion, baby boomers have constantly challenged and reframed traditional values. They epitomize the practice of self-examination, individual growth,

reflection and self actualization. Baby boomers, according to Brown, entered marriages with expectations emphasiz-ing satisfaction of personal needs. If those needs are not met, divorce may be an avenue to achieve lifes dreams. Whatever the reason, the gray divorce phenomenon appears to be a reality for older Americans. As these divorces usually follow lengthy mar-riages, there are a number of issues that can be especially contentious. The AAML survey found that alimony, business interests, retirement accounts and pensions were the most commonly fought over issues (in descending order) for couples divorcing after age 50. Along with memories and experiences, long marriages accumulate things. This means more assets, more deeply inter-twined accounts and more liabilities to be divided when the marriage dissolves. If you are part of this group thinking about divorce past age 50, consider the following:

Get help from an expert. The divorce process is complicated, and you should not navigate it alone. Arm yourself with experts who will have your best interest in mind. Choose individuals you can trust and who will provide you with legal advice, finan-cial expertise and emotional support.

Get educated about your finances. Most divorce cases, especially gray divorces with more significant assets, are dominated by financial determina-tions. You must be educated about your

marital finances. Know what your familys wealth and debt are. If your spouse has typically handled bills, learn how much things cost. Get records and make copies of them! This includes credit reports, bills, mortgage statements, investment documents, bank accounts and any other financial records.

Be open to settlement. Mediation can be a great way to resolve any issues with your spouse, but only if you have completed the items above. Generally, having a strangersuch as a judgedetermine ones financial future is not a good plan. Trying to work it out between the people who know the rela-tionship best, i.e. you and your spouse, is almost always preferable to going to court. However, get the input of a lawyer before any settlement is final.

Be prepared for change. Depending on the length of your mar-riage, you have most likely become accustomed to a certain routine and lifestyle that will invariably change. Money may be tighter than it was during the marriage, as it is more expensive to run two households. Women may find themselves returning to the work force after many years at home. Additionally, keeping the marital home may be more of a burden than a blessing. Although change is hard, it does not mean that there is not life after gray di-vorce. Of those interviewed by AARPs 2004 study, 76 percent of divorcees felt they made the right decision in choosing to dissolve the marriage.

Authors Robert D. Boyd and Jeanette Linville are with Boyd Collar Nolen & Tuggle LLC in Atlanta. Attorneys at the firm counsel clients on a number of mat-ters related to divorce. Boyd and Linville may be reached at (770) 953-4300 or by email at [email protected] or [email protected], respectively.

The divorce rate among adults ages 50 and older doubled between 1990 and 2010s.

Baby Boomers Bail from Marriages at Alarming Rates


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1018 West Bay DriveLargo, Florida 33770Phone: 727.585.2200

www.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.

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Dont Ignore Cataract SymptomsOphthalmologists advise seniors to be aware of the dangers of ignor-ing cataracts symptoms. They say de-laying treatment of advanced forms of the common eye disease can increase risk of permanent blindness and injury. Cataracts are a leading cause of visual impairment that will affect more than half of all Americans by the time they are 80 years old. Delaying diagnosis and treatment of age-related cataracts can increase seniors risk of permanent blindness and can lead to both physical and psychological damage.

Cataracts are caused by the cloud-ing of the lens of the eye and are most common among older adults since the condition develops as the eye ages. Many seniors cope with cataractsaccepting vision loss as an inevitable part of the aging process rather than seeking medical treatment. Due to the incapacitation caused by blurred vision, leaving cataracts undiagnosed and untreated can lead to physical danger such as injuries from falls or running into unseen objects, as well as psychological harm like depression and social isolation. In addition, the longer advanced forms of cataracts are left untreated, the more difficult it can be to successfully repair the damage caused to the eye.

What to do Adults age 65 and older should have regular eye exams to monitor for the development of cataracts, in addition to other common eye conditions and

diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and glaucoma. People with diabetes, a family history of cataracts and those who smoke tobacco are at an increased risk of developing cataracts. Common symptoms include dull, blurry vision, colors appearing less vibrant and halos around lights which may begin to be noticeable as cataracts develop. Cataracts are nearly always treatable with surgery, but it may not be neces-sary until performing daily activities becomes difficult. If daily life isnt

disturbed, a change in a persons eyeglass prescription may be all that is necessary until vi-sual impairment becomes more severe. If completing everyday tasks is challenging, cataract surgery should be discussed with an ophthalmologista medical doctor specializing in the diagnosis, medical and surgical treatment of eye diseases and conditions. Seniors who find themselves giving up normal tasks like reading, exercising or driving due to cataract symptoms should know that they do no

not need to suffer in silence, said Rebecca Taylor, M.D., spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Cataract surgery can help these individuals regain their sight and their independence. It is one of the most common and safest procedures performed in medicine, so seniors should not resist seeking help. Getting treatment can vastly improve your quality of life. For people without regular access to eye care or for whom cost is a concern, EyeCare America, a public service program of the Foundation of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, offers eye exams and care at no out of pocket cost to qualifying seniors age 65 and older through its corps of nearly 7,000 volunteer ophthalmologists across the U.S. To learn more about EyeCare America or to find out if you or a loved one qualifies for the program, visit eyecareamerica.org.

Clouded lenses of cataracts (right) scatter light, blurring vision and distorting colors.


PASCOHudson

Blue Dolphin8825 State Road 52

Nov. 7 at 10:00 am & 2:00 pm

Dennys12105 US Hwy 19

Nov. 4 at 10:00 am & 2:00 pm

New Port Richey Gator Buffet6301 SR 54

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IHOP4736 US Hwy 19 N

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Port RicheyChilis

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Golden Corral8928 US 19

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Harold Seltzers9409 US Hwy 19 NNov. 2 at 11:00 am

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Wesley ChapelGrill Smith

2000 Piazza Ave Unit 100Nov. 6 at 10:00 am & 2:00 pm

PINELLASClearwater

Oriental Supper Buffet2456 Gulf To Bay BoulevardNov. 1 at 11:30 am & 2:00 pm

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LargoGolden Corral

10050 Ulmerton RoadNov. 6 at 11:30 am & 2:00 pm

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Optimum HealthCare is an HMO plan with a Medicare contract and a contract with the Florida Medicaid program. Enrollment in Optimum HealthCare depends on contract renewal. 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 co-payments/co-insurance may change on January 1 of each year. (1) You must continue to pay your Medicare Part B premium. (2) Limitations, cop-payments and restrictions may apply. (3) Amount varied by plan and county. A sales person will be present with information and applications; Medicare evaluates plans based on a 5-Star rating system. Star Ratings are calculated each year and may change from one year to the next. For accommodations of person with special needs at sales meetings call 1-866-245-5360. TTY/TDD 1-800-955-8771. This information is available for free in other languages. Please contact our customer service number at 1-866-245-5360. TTY/TDD: 1-800-955-8771. Esta infomacin est disponible gratuitamente en otros idiomas. Por favor llame al departamento de servicio de miembros al 1-866-245-5360, TTY/TDD: 1-800-955-8771 para mas informacin. 1 de Octubre de 2013 al 14 de Febrero de 2014, 7 Das de la Semana - 8am a 8pm. 15 de Febrero de 2014 al 30 de Septiembre de 2014 - Lunes a Viernes - 8am a 8pm. 1 de Octubre de 2014 a 31 de Diciembre 2014 - 7 Das de la Semana - 8am a 8pm. H5594_14NPSAVEvt_CMS Accepted

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Lifestyles After 50 November 2013 page 12 NBranson Celebrates Veterans

Every Day, Especially in NovemberBY FRED WRIGHT

There are so many U.S. veterans traveling to reunions in Branson, Mo., each year, you almost expect the town of 10,000 to be painted olive drab or battleship gray. To the contrary, Branson has retained much of its Ozark Mountain charm despite an eclectic mix of architecture and building styles. Its geographic location puts the town and its multitude of theaters within driving distance of half the nations population. It has an estimated 63,000 theater seats, more than Broadway. And as a perennial destination for an average of 600 military reunions big and small every year, Branson celebrates the flag just about everywhere you look.

For example, just about every live show in townas many as a hundred in peak seasonshas a Salute the Troops feature. It may be a medley of patriotic songs, a display of flags or an intermission tribute. Often, military members and veterans in the audience are urged to stand up according to branch served or war fought. Then there is always a rousing round of applause.

As you might expect, Veterans Day, Nov. 11, gets a very special celebration each and every year and there are patriotic events for days and even weeks leading up to the national holiday. Nov. 11 is also Remembrance Day (also known as Poppy Day and Armistice Day) for Canadians. In Branson, Veterans Homecoming runs Nov. 5 11.

Approximately 30 years ago, we had our first Welcome Home celebration aimed at Vietnam veterans, explains Lynn Berry, director of com-munications for the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce. That weekend, we had over 100,000 people here. It established a real camaraderie and love for hosting veterans. During the Veterans Homecoming celebration, Wartime Romance is staged at the Baldnobbers Theater. Its the story of a U.S. Marine Corps dive bomber pilot in World War II who finds strength, hope and inspiration from the love letters he writes and receives from his girlfriend back in Kansas. Bransons 80th annual Veterans Day Parade will march through the historic downtown, stepping off at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th monthNov. 11 at 11 amin honor of when the World War I armistice was signed. The parade is one of the culminating events for the week-long celebration and one of the largest events of National Veterans Week in the U.S., drawing tens of thousands of veterans, active military personnel and their families. This patriotic spirit and fervor perme-ates Branson year-round. Nearby sits the College of the Ozarks, a private Christian liberal arts college with a thousand-acre campus. Students learn employable skills while they earn a de-gree, pay no tuition and graduate with no debt. Locals call it Hard Work U.

Each year, the school sends dozens of its honor students to overseas battlefields where they learn firsthand the military history of the U.S. While theres an emphasis on World War II battlefields, other venues, includ-ing Korea, are also on the agenda.

Each trip includes veterans from the four Ozarks statesMissouri, Okla-homa, Kansas and Arkansas. For the past four years, 50 veterans have made the trip as well, with all expenses paid. Sometimes, there are patriotic surprises to be found in Branson. For example, the 472room Radisson Branson doesnt announce its commitment to the military. Guests who happen to wander down to the hotels bar will suddenly see row after row of military servicemen and women. The photo faces, many brown with age, stare backmore than 1,700 of them. Here and there, theres a shadow box or a storyboard with information about an historical event from World War IIa bit of history about underage Americans who volunteered for service in World War II, some as young as 12, or the tragic story of the U.S.S. Indianapolis, the ship that carried the Hiroshima atomic bomb and then was sunk just days before the wars end with great loss of life. The collection just happened, explains Sarah Green-Hord, the hotels military sales manager. A collection of photos was given space

on the hotels walls. Veterans attend-ing reunions at the hotel began asking if their photos could also be posted. And in 2003, when the Medal of Honor Society chose the Radisson as the site for its reunion, the hotel created a Medal of Honor Room, a small but proud display of photos of Medal of Honor recipients. While not all medal winners are represented, selections include Mary E. Walker, the only fe-male recipient, and Audie Murphy, the most decorated soldier in World War II who went on to become a movie star. Theres limited space left, however, with room for perhaps another 200 photos along the corridors, perhaps a few more Medal of Honor winners in the small side room. Where will photos go after that? Green-Hord says comfortably, Its ever evolving.

Some Important Reunion Dates Upcoming in Branson This Year:

Veterans Homecoming Week, Nov. 5 11

Veterans Spouses Luncheon, Nov. 6

Persian Gulf War Mini Reunion, Nov. 7

Womens Veterans Mini Reunion, Nov. 8

Korean War Veterans Mini Reunion, Nov. 9

Walmart Tribute to Veterans, Nov. 9

Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, Dec. 7

For more information about Branson, call 417-334-4084 or go to www.ExploreBranson.com.

Travel

Bransons Veterans Memorial Museum

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The Veterans Day Parade

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Salute Our Veterans7 Veterans Recognition Walk. Anyone age 50 or older can join in a themed one-mile walk with a warm-up session, complimentary snacks, music and health dis-cussions. Price: $5. 8:30 am at Progress Village Recre-ation, 8701 Progress Village Blvd., Tampa. 813-714-8735.

9 Candlelight Vigil and Dance Social. Admission includes candle, snacks, coffee and dance social with DJ. Free for veterans; all others $5. 7:30 pm at American Legion Post 147, 17383 Gunn Highway, Odessa. 727-372-9848.

10 America Remembers: A Veterans Day Salute. A patriotic concert honoring those who have served yes-terday and those who are serving today. Free and open to the public. Donations welcome. Doors open at 2 pm, show starts at 3 pm. The Palladium, 253 Fifth Ave. N., St. Petersburg. 727-822-3590.

10 Gulfsides 7th Annual Hike for Hospice. 5K walk includes a special tribute to thank our veterans and a memo-ry wall to honor lost loved ones. Registration and check-in at 7 am, run begins at 8 am, hike at 9 am. Hikers receive t-shirt, break-fast and beverages with registra-tion. Price: $25/adults; $15 age 11 through college; $10 age 10

and under. Register: 800-561-4883.

10 Vintage Motor Classic. See cars, trucks motorcycles and boats. Also, salute our veterans with a vintage military vehicle display. Starts 8 am at Straub Park at Beach Drive and Fifth Ave. NE, St. Petersburg. Price: Free, $25 car registration. 727-580-1804.

13 42nd Street Big Bands Red, White and Blue Veterans Day Salute. 2 pm at Richey Suncoast Theatre, 6237 Grand Blvd., New Port Richey. $12. 727-842-6777.


Lois Sobotka


Ear, Nose and Throat Associates would like to help you hear all

that is important to you!

ENT Associates has 10 Ear, Nose and Throat Physicians known as Otolaryngologists and 8 Doctors of Audiology on staff. Together, your Otolaryngologist and Doctor of Audiology will determine the exact nature of your hearing loss. In some cases, minor surgery, ear wax removal or some other treatment can solve the problem. If not, well recommend a hearing aid, device or system that fits your budget and lifestyle. ENT Associates is dedicated to your hearing healthcare needs now and in the future.

A Doctor of Audiology, AuD has 8 years of specialized training in the assessment and management of hearing and balance disorders including the dispensing and fitting of hearing aids.

Please call or visit our website today!(727) 791-1368 www.ENTflorida.com

Reliable, Responsible Medical and Surgical Care for your Ear, Nose and Throat Conditions!

How can we help? The Partners of ENT Associates have collec-tive experience caring for patients since 1983. Our team of Board Certified Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgeons, Facial Plastic and

Reconstructive Surgeons and Sleep Medicine Physicians, licensedDoctors of Audiology and licensed Allergy Nurses are dedicated to give sound medical answers and care to patients of all ages.

Hearing Loss Including hearing aids and tinnitus management

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surgeries and offering balloonsinuplasty in-office

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Medical Esthetician Performing facials, microdermabrasion, peels and laser treatments

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ENT Associates uses the latest technology and resources to address the patients needs. We pride ourselves on being the best in Tampa Bay at what we do. We have no allegiance to any one hospital, surgery center, diagnostic facility or insurance entity and work only in the interest of the patients. We have eight convenient locations in Pinellas, Pasco and Hillsborough counties. Should you need an evaluation in one of our areas of expertise, please call us today and speak with one of our friendly staff members who will schedule an appointment for you: 727-791-1368. For more information, please visit our websites: www.ENTflorida.com and www.DrMorganFACE.com .

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How Much is Enough? A Simple Formula for SuccessBY MARK VAN MOURICK, CEO, Optivest Inc.

Whats your number? It seems that we all have a number in mind, whether realistic or not, that if we get there, our financial future would be secure and we could retire without worry. For many, this number keeps growing and forever seems out of reach. For some this number is a little bit more, even though they have long passed their re-quirements for a comfortable retirement.

I have a formula that creates arealistic target: If you have a mortgage-free residence that reflects your lifestyle, and you have similar spending and vacation expenses as your neighbors You will need two to three times the value of your paid off home

in a balanced and diversified portfolio. That is enough! I have seen this work well with $200,000, $2,000,000 or $20,000,000 homes. Lets use a $2,000,000 paid-for home as an example. The cost for a debt free home is about two percent per year, so this home might still cost $40,000 per year to occupy including taxes, insurance, utilities and maintenance. Furthermore, the average household spends about 8 to 12 percent of their homes value a year in lifestyle and tax obligations. You may be living above or below your neighbors average lifestyle, but if you had income of 10 to 15 percent of your homes value every year, it would be sufficient. Thats where your savings comes in. Yes, you will have future inflation, but it will not greatly affect your housing expenses and you have a substantial principal balance to use as well.

Finance


Simply Healthcare Plans, Inc., a Medicare-contracted coordinated care plan that has a Medicaid contract with the State of Florida Agency for Health Care Administration to provide benets or arrange for benets to be provided to enrollees. Enrollment in Simply Healthcare Plans, Inc. depends on contract renewal. The benet information provided is a brief summary, not a complete description of benets. Limitations, copayments, and restrictions may apply. Benets may vary by plan and county. Benets, formulary, pharmacy network, provider network, premium and/or co-payments/co-insurance may change on January 1 of each year. You must continue to papay your Medicare Part B premium. For full-dual members the Part B premium is covered. Premiums, copays, and coinsurance may vary based on the level of Extra Help you receive. Please contact the plan for further details by calling, Member Services toll-free at 1-877-577-0115 (TTY 711). From October 1 to February 14, we are open 7 days a week from 8 a.m. 8 p.m., Eastern. From February 15, we are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. 8 p.m. H5471_SHPM01K2027 Accepted 9/26/2013

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Our plans have a wide variety of benets that may include: Up to $552 yearly giveback on your Medicare Part B premium $0 or low copay for prescription drugs $0 copay for doctor oce visits

$0 copay for enhanced dental benets (including dentures) Up to $1,000 for hearing aids every year Up to $200 for eyewear every year

Shells and Imagination Create Great GiftsBY TRACIE SCHMIDT

Across the table from me sat an elephant. Its ears were two bay scallop shells and its head and nose were the elongated spiral shell of a lightening welk. Two googly eyes fixed to the shell stared back whimsically. It was one of the Sea Shell Crafters Clubs shell critters, a popular craft project that also includes pelicans, sea turtles and owls of every shape and size. Nearby were delicate Christmas ornaments fashioned from sand dollars and shells in the shapes of stars and angels. Wreaths were decked out in ribbons, starfish, pearls and other sea treasures. The club works on differ-ent art projects like these at every gathering, which they keep or sell to support the facilities where they meet.It all started about three years ago. We were talking about ways to make additional funds for the rec center. said Sara Henkel, the clubs

leader. I thought, we could make a shell club. We have all the resources here: the seashells, the beach, the sand and people that are into crafts, and we thought, well, that would be a nice thing for the community. The Friends of the Clearwater Beach Recreation Center, Library and Pool donated $200 to help the club get started, and ever since, the

Sea Shell Crafters Club has been giving proceeds from their craft sales back to the Friends, who use it to support other programs at the center. Most of their shells have been donated by retirees cleaning house or by collec-tors who know their shells are going to be put to good use. The rest of their materials can be anything from hot glue and wire to ribbons, glitter, beads, paints, picture frames and vases. Supplies are provided for newcomers who are trying out shell crafting for the first time. And if youre new to shell crafting, Henkel said, anyone can pick it up. Actually, when we started out, we really didnt have anyone to show us. Im a novice at this, too, she said. One group member taught everyone how to prepare shells. Another was adept at creating intricate shell flower arrangements. Theres a lot of input from one another, Henkel said. We all learn as we go, and weve learned a lot.

The club hosts guest speakers as well. An artist from a local shell shop gave the group a tutorial on design, while a conchologist brought in native shells and specimens from around the world, teaching the club how the shells were formed. Shell-collecting field trips, beach walks and lunches out are also part of the clubs activitiesits all abouthaving fun. The ladies that paricipate feel that this is a way to give back to the community and support their facilities and all the things we provide here, Henkel says. Membership is informal and open for anyone to drop in, and there are plenty of holiday-themed projects in the months ahead. The Sea Shell Crafters Club meets every second and fourth Thursday from 1 to 3 pm at the Clearwater Beach Library and Rec-reation Complex, 69 Bay Esplanade, Clearwater Beach. To learn more, call Sara Henkel at 727-447-5882.

Sara Henkel (L) and Judy Smith (R) show off some handmade wreaths.


Discover The SpringsSouth Pasadenas 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. Were 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:

Orthopedic Stroke/Neuro Cardiac programs by utilizing state-of-the-art equipment including Anodyne therapy and Natilus equipment, just to name a few.

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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Foot Solutions carries a wide range of products for people with Diabetes: stylish comfort shoes custom arch supports

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Foot Solutions in Largo Mall is a board accredited provider for the Medicare Therapeutic Shoe Program.

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Does Rain Increase Pain?Why do rain and cold seem to increase arthritis pain? Do your joints ache when rain is in the forecast? People whose arthritis seems to flare before or after it rains wonder if damp weather is making their arthritis worse. Rheumatologists say they get this question a lot, even though not much evidence supports a link between sore joints and damp weather. Elaine Husni, MD, a rheumatologist at Cleveland Clinic, considers why arthritis pain goes up when the rain comes down. Some people believe that when you drop the barometric pressure, your air pressure, that sometimes your tissues can swell. Dr. Husni says. When your tissues swell in an already inflamed joint, some-times that can push against muscles and nerves in the area and make it appear more painful, she adds.

Dr. Husni says that weather does not cause arthritis or make it worse. She says it just may alter the symptoms a

bit for that day. Many of her patients tell her cooler, damp weather is worst, so Dr. Husni says to pay close attention to the weather report and anticipate whats coming.

She says if you know that damp weather bothers you, then you can make some arrangements for that day. You might want to bring some extra sweaters or gloves, something that will kind of shield you from the cold and the dampness, she says. Dr. Husni notices that many of her patients tell her warm weather actually makes their joints feel better, so summer offers them some relief. From Cleveland Clinics Health Hub


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Are You Suffering From Caregiver Syndrome?Caregiver Syndrome, also called Caregiver Stress, is a condition that results from acute or chronic stress due to caregiving activities. Symptoms can include fatigue, insomnia, stomach com-plaints, anxiety, anger and depression. If youre a caregiver and experiencing these health issues, you may need better ways to manage your stress. Start by eating properly, exercising regularly and getting plenty of rest. You may also benefit from learning relaxation techniques or joining a local support group for caregivers. Often, the best thing you can do for yourself is to take a break, which enables you to maintain a healthy balance between caregiving and your own personal needs. One way to take a break is to schedule regular times of respite care (when someone else temporarily cares for your loved one). Many assisted living communities provide short-term respite care for a reasonable cost.

These communities are adept in handling the special needs of seniors, from medication assistance and help with bathing, dressing and toileting, to providing activities that are geared to a seniors activity level and interest. Weve had families that take a break from caregiving duties one weekend each month and bring their relative to stay with us for a few days, says Sharon Stelbasky, Administrator of Magnolia Gardens Assisted Living in Pinellas Park. This allows the senior an opportunity to make friends and have fun with people their own age and it gives the caregiver a chance to enjoy a short break from the constant respon-sibility. Adds Stelbasky, And some of our respite guests like it so much that they become permanent residents! Magnolia Gardens is a licensed as-sisted living facility offering respite care for your loved one. Call 727-489-6447 or visit www.mgalf.com for more info.


Text ER to 23000 for the Average Wait Times of an HCA Pinellas County Hospital Near You.

For information about our hospitals or services, call Consult-A-Nurse at 1-855-422-2228.

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ST. PETERSBURGGENERAL HOSPITAL

LARGO MEDICAL CENTERINDIAN ROCKS ROAD CAMPUS

P I N E L L A S C O U NNNLL NN T YYYE L L A S C O U N T Y

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LLL A R G OOOL A R G O

BY DR. ALICE JACOBS VESTERGAARD, Ashford University

Realities of being in the Sandwich Generation create anxiety, stress and depressionmore so than in any previous generations. A mere men-tion of the term conjures an image of people being squished into little flat pieces by overwhelming pres-sures squeezing the life energy out of some poor baby boomers soul. The Sandwich Generation is the 79 million baby boomers born between 1946 and 1964 alive today. They make up more than a quarter of the U.S. population. This same group has anywhere from one to three other generational groups depending upon them for financial, emotional and/or caregiving support. Other generational

members may consist of the boomers parents, children and grandchildren. Thats a lot of pressure, and the lives of many baby boomers are more like pressure cookers than sandwiches. Responsibility overload is taking a toll on the generation that came of age during a time of prosperity, hope and the Mickey Mouse Club. Large portions of the boomer cohort are angry and bitter, struggling to exist. Theyre not the happy camp-ers they thought they would be at this stage in their lives. Some say they are Prozac poppers due to the amount of antidepressants now ingested by this group. Statistics of alcohol, drug addiction and suicide are alarming. According to the National Institutes of Health, between 2002 and 2011, the number of illicit drug users ages 50 to 59 tripled. Many have watched their retirement funding dwindle and are forced to remain in the workforce longer than anticipated while many boomers

were laid off from jobs prematurely. Foreclosures on dream homes, taking in kids and grandkids, giving up their empty-nester lifestyles for more mouths to feed have all taken their toll.

According to the U.S. Census Bu-reau, 7 million grandchildren younger than 18 were living with grandparents in 2010. All this while having to cope with the infirmities and needs of their own aging parents. Boomers have their own changing healthcare needsknees and hips, the begin-nings of degenerative diseases, heart disease, high blood pressure and Type 2 Diabetes are increasingly affecting this population at a disturbing rate. Wait a minute, whats wrong with this picture? That little sweet child who

grew up wearing her pretty pink tutu in ballet dance class is now wearing the pretty pink hospital gown to have her EKG, MRI, and CAT scan if shes lucky enough to have health insurance. Boomers are worried about being able to afford retirement, healthcare; theyre worried about their aging parents devel-oping Alzheimers disease and all that it entails in terms of financial and economic resources, in addition to providing food, shelter, clothing and/or financial assistance to their kids and grandkids. Growing up singing tunes such as Puff the Magic Dragon and Where Have All the Flowers Gone, their new theme songs are Where Have all my Retirement Investments Gone, followed by Puff the Magic Health Care Dragon Making it Hard for Me to Breathe Due to High Monthly Premiums. Coming of age when the Beatles were a phenomenon, boomers tend to identify with Hard Days Night for a lot more reasons than they did in their younger years.

The Sandwich Generation: Boomers Feel the Squeeze

Boomers have anywhere from one to three other generational groups depending upon them for financial, emotional and/

or caregiving support...


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New BooksIf you were in high school in the 1940s, you might enjoy Senior Prom by Judith Foard. The author takes on issues like social class, teen pregnancy (remember the disgrace of pregnancy in high school?) and feminism as they were seen during that decade.

Blood on China Beach by Paul J. Pitlyk is the authors journey from medical school graduation to the jungles of Vietnam. The young neurosurgeon chronicles his journey as a brain surgeon on the front lines in Vietnam. His first surgeries there were in quonset huts with flashlights as lighting and only the barest of surgical instruments. Dr. Pitlyk explores his feelings as he patches up head wounds which he knows will leave the young soldier to a life with full-time care in a nursing home. As he perfects his surgical skills through the

experience, he realizes that many also die because of his lack of experience. The book is a view of medicine on the front lines, both physically and emotion-ally. As a memoir, Blood on China Beach illustrates the authors reverence for life and his admiration for the bravery of the marines on whom he operated.

Live Long, Live Strong: Keep Healthy and Fit For Life by Robert Hale is a guide to combining sensible exercise for the body and mind with a nutritional plan for

older people. The author knows that older people often spend their golden years prisoners in their own homes due to physical or mental incapacity. His book is a guide with information on improving life and giving Old Father Time a run for his money.


Need A Doctor?Consult-A-Nurse is here for you. Just a phone call away, our registered nurses are at your service, providing free information and prompt answers to your health-related questions. Our nurses do not diagnose conditions, but provide health information in an effort to help you find an answer to your health questions.

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After Loss: Coping with AttachmentsBY GARY JOSEPH LEBLANC

An unbreakable bond is forged during the years spent caring for a loved one who is seriously ill. Sadly, things will finally come to an end. Thats life. And death. Ultimately the time will come when you must sit yourself down in what was once a familiar house that now feels as if someone or something literally sucked the life right out of it. If your loved one had hospice care involved, werent you shocked by how quickly they removed their equipment? I sure was! The very next morning after my dads passing, a large hospice truck arrived, two large men got out and, in no time, loaded up whatever equipment was theirs. Then silence! It was eerie the way the spot where his bed once sat seemed to permeate emptiness throughout the whole house. The first thing I did once reality set in was to start working on the interior of my house. Changes that I had been wanting to

make for years were now possible. Before, my hands had been tied as I knew that change would upset my fathers routine. Not only did I feel the house become a home again, I found all of this activ-ity and change to be very therapeutic. Happily, working on the house oc-cupied my mind and left me with the feeling I had accomplished something. Somehow his clothes were thehardest part. A good six months had gone by before I finally called my sister and asked if she would come by and empty Dads closet and donate his clothing to wherever she felt best. It wasnt as if I didnt need the space. I did! And it had nothing to do with the fact that my father had died in that room. I never experienced any ill or odd feeling because of that. In fact, I found it to be the complete opposite! I was grateful that my father got to spend his last living days in the comfort of his familiar surroundings. The truth is that I had suddenlydeveloped a sentimental attachment

to his belongings. Im not a hoarder, but I had an urge not to throwanything of his away. If you are left with a whole second house full of possessions, you may want to consider having a professional liquidator come in and help you. The trick is finding a reputable one. Spend the extra time to thoroughly go through their references. If you find yourself being overcome with depression from being surround-ed by the memories, it definitely may be healthier to have someone with you and not go about this project alone. Going through your loved ones belongings is a difficult task. Try to stay strong. You know what your loved one would wish for you to do. Gary Joseph LeBlanc, is author of the books Staying Afloat in a Sea of For-getfulness and Managing Alzheimers & Dementia Behavior, and co-author of While I Still Can. LeBlanc is also the founder of the Alzheimers/Dementia Hospital Wristband Project.

Winter Holidays Bring Up GriefDuring the winter holidays, many people experience a re-cycling of old grief issues, missing loved ones who have died, and/or remembering previous holidays that were disap-pointing or otherwise painful, stated Grace Terry of Grief Resolu-tion Resources of Tampa Bay. Terry says, Everyone experiences loss of various kinds. Its good to be prepared with practical information about grief before facing a difficult loss rather than trying to understand the process in the midst of it. For information about Grief Resolution Resources, please call 727-487-3207 or email [email protected].


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November: National Family Caregiving MonthThis year, 42 million women (ages 40 60) are family caregivers faced with the challenge of providing care to their loved ones each and every day. In addition, 30 to 40 percent of the caregivers of older and disabled family members are men. AARPs Caregiver Assistance campaign says common stresses of caregivers include:

Frustration with the unpredict-ability of caregiving. Caregiving responsibilities can creep up on caregivers or arrive suddenly with the hospitalization of a loved one, and the hours spent can snowball to equal the hours of a part time job. Unexpected twists and turns leave caregivers figuring things out as they go and feeling like they arent doing the job well enough. Despite the fact that there are many caregivers in

the U.S. in the same situation, they feel isolated because everyones caregiving experience is unique.

The many roles of a caregiver. Caring for a loved one means having a lot of responsibilitiesfrom paying bills and doling out medicines, to making dinner, bathing and driving to and from doctors appointments.

Providing expertise and empathy. Support groups, online or in person, give a caregiver a chance to get with other caregivers. They feel feel validat-ed and supported and pleased that they learn so much from each other. AARPs caregiver website (aarp.org/home-family/caregiving) connects caregivers with experts, other caregivers and local resources for information, advice and emotional support through a Facebook community, a mobile app, monthly Twitter chats and a TakeCare blog.


BY FRED. W. WRIGHT JR.

Santa and his elves, Christmas carols and high-stepping dancers, more gifts and decorations than the eye can take in: The folks at the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino in Biloxi, Miss., really know how to put together a holiday celebration. The first seasonal surprise for guests is the size and volume of the Christ-mas decorations. The resort is already spectacular, borrowing many of its interior design styles from a very styl-ish sister property in Las Vegas, the Bellagio. Added in for the holidays are huge bright ornaments, tinsel, icicles, large nutcrackers, snowy displays, multiple decorated Christmas trees and the sweet scent of evergreen wreaths. And thats just in the lobby. What many people who havent visited the Beau Rivage dont realize is that the resort and casino property boasts a dozen upmarket shops that offer brands and styles not often found along the Gulf of Mexico coast. These well-known names include Gucci, David Yu-man, John Hardy, Mignon Faget, Brighton and Vera Bradley with the best in classics and trendy fashions. There are gifts for every budget along this retail shopping promenade, including Everythings $10 Boutique, featuring watches, fash-ion jewelry and accessories.

The shops, of course, are thoroughly decorated, and something like 5,000 poinsettias are lining the retail corridor and lobby, filling the air with color. On Dec. 14, from 11 am to 6 pm, the Beau Rivage has its Annual Holiday Open house. The Long Beach Madri-gal Singers will be on hand to provide the traditional Christmas carols. Since the holiday season is really a focus for families, the Beau Rivage has numerous family-friendly events on the calendar. Thats the true spirit of Christmas and thats the name of

the Beau Rivages new live enter-tainment production: The Spirit of Christmas. Its a lively live produc-tion full of costumes, Christmas carols and high-kicking dancers. Shows are nightly at 7 with Satur-day and Sunday matinees at 3 pm. The show runs Dec. 3 29 in its resident theater, and there is a spe-cial $89.99 promotion that includes two tickets and room for one night. And thats only part of the holiday family fun. For example, theres a chance for a photo with Santa in his sleigh surrounded by the red and white colors of Christmas. In the resorts buffet (and casinos are famous for the depth and breadth of their buffets), children under 12 eat free from 3 to 10 pm during the run of the live show.

At the Scoops, the Beau Rivages on-site old-fashioned ice cream parlor, theres a Buy-One-Get-One-Free offer on any item from Dec. 14 29. Yum! The Beau Rivage literally towers over the other seven gaming venues in town with 32 floors and 1,740 rooms and suites, offering hundreds of slots and AAA Four-Diamond dining in its BR Prime steak restaurant. By partnering with its own Vision Airlines, the Beau Rivage brings in tourists from through-out the U.S., including the St. Peters-burg/Clearwater International Airport. The rooms themselves are very up-market; the bathrooms come with sepa-rate shower and bath tub. Room service is quick and efficient. Its easy to nest and forget all the tempting holiday entertainment a few floors below.

The Beau Rivage Spa and Salon, one floor above the casino, has a fresh menu of tempting treatments for the body, from facial to pedicure. Theres a Mississippi Massage to detoxify the body with treatments lasting 50 to 100 minutes. Your choice. The Warm

Stone Massage uses heated basalt stones which are rubbed smoothly and gently across the body. There are also couples massages (friends qualify), Mother-To-Be massages and even in-room massages. For those seeking even more self-indulgence, theres an Age-Defying Facial (promoted as the Rolls Royce of treatments) or the Caviar and Pearl Facial. This treatment includes exfoliation and massage of the hands and feet as well.

For the adults who visit the casino, the Beau Rivage will be offering a number of holiday-themed promotions with the possibility of sharing in up to $2-mil-lion in free play and prizes, including 2014 Lexus ES 350 that will be given away during a Winning Wonderland Freeplay Giveaway through Dec. 29. There are more surprises and special holiday touches leading right up to

New Years Eve and into 2014. For more details, visit the Beau Rivages website: www.beaurivage.com.

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Dec. 3 29, 2013 Spirit of Christmas Showtimes: Tuesdays Fridays, 7 pm; Saturdays and Sundays, 3 and 7 pm.Tickets: $9.95, $14.95 and $19.95 (plus tax and service charge).

Dec. 31, 2013 11 pm The Molly RingwaldsTickets: $19.95, $24.95 and $29.95 (plus tax and service charge).

Jan. 10, 2014 7 and 10 pm. Ron WhiteTickets: $39.95, $49.95 and $59.95 (plus tax and service charge).

Jan. 31, 2014 8 pm. Vince GillTickets: $54.95, $67.95 and $77.95 (plus tax and service charge).

Feb. 22, 2014 8 pm Tony Bennett Tickets: $69.95, $79.95 and $89.95 (plus tax and service charge).


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This Virtual Table Game Has One Big Drawback

BY MARK PILARSKI

Dear Mark: Here in Reno, several casinos have blackjack machines where the dealer is a video of an at-tractive young lady. Are the cards dealt randomly the same as would happen on a live table game or are these machines programmed to pay out a predeter-mined percentage? The machines have player favorable rules, including surrender allowed. So, am I wrong to think this is a better place to play than a live dealer game? Alan C.

I believe the machines you are speaking of, Alan, are called Table Master, and they use a video repre-sentation of a cybernetic life-sized dealer, or as you described, an attrac-tive young lady, placed at the center of a fully automated blackjack game. These games give you a realistic live table-like performance of not only Black-jack, but also Three-Card Poker, Let It Ride, Ultimate Texas Holdem, Royal Match 21 and Dragon Bonus Baccarat. As to your first question, yes, all hands are dealt randomly. Table Master black-jack machines are not programmed to return a set percentage as would a slot machine. Your play, along with favor-able rules like surrender, doubling and split variations that favor the player, will dictate your percentage return. The best feature of these avatar ma-chines is that, at least in my gambling locale, the game is offered for as little as a buck a hand. Likewise, in most gaming jurisdictions you will find a

decent-sized gap between a Table Mas-ter wager and that of a live table game. All is good, right? Not necessarily. On average, Table Master games near-ly double the number of hands played per hour. In gamble-ese this is called incremental game speed. Although the payoffs are the same as those of a live table game, you need to take into account that increase in speed. With the advantage of more hands played per hour, that attractive young lady can draw down the contents of your billfold faster than the dealer at a live table game. The game plan here, Alan, is to slow your play, especially when playing alone. Take your time to study each hand. Be-cause you are playing against a machine, no one is going to intimidate you if your play is at a leisurely pace. Additionally, because the payoffs and rules are effec-tively the same as those of a live game, basic strategy is the smart play here against a computer-generated dealer. Also, if you are a novice player, play on the lowest denomination machine until your level of expertise rises. Oh, and one more thing. Dont forget to use a Casino Players Card so you can be re-warded with some goodies for your play.

Dear Mark: Could you please give an example of what you mean by expect-ed value on a bet where you recom-mend only making bets with a casino edge of less than 2%? Chase D.

Astute gamesters making bets that have less than a two percent house advantage are giving themselves a fair chance of winning, and a fair chance is all that any gambler should ask for. So matching expected value with that nugget of advice, expected value (EV) is how much you can expect to win (positive) or lose (negative) from your bet. For example, the expected value of betting the Bank hand in Bac-carat is -1.17%. This means you can expect to lose 1.17% of every dollar you wager. Another example would be European (single-zero) roulette. Here, the expected value is -2.7%, which means you can expect to lose 2.7% of every dollar you bet. (SENIOR WIRE)

Whats Your Lifestyle After 50?Tell us in 260 words or less.

How do you spend your Lifestyle After 50? What makes your life fulfilling, your day fun, your grandkids smile and

your neighbors jealous? Each month we will select a write-up to publish in Lifestyles After 50 magazine, online.

This year I turned 65, and found Ive acquired along with plenty of aches and pains a perspective on the world that I lacked as a younger person. The biggest problem with aging is routine; absolutely the most debilitating thing we can do. Keep imagination alive, hold on to a sense of adventure and preserve a willingness to learn new things are strategies that work for me. Like many baby boomers who have watched their parents age in less than perfect health, Ive realized that being active is probably the single most important aspect to aging well. Fortunately, Ive found the perfect two-part recipe for living well after fifty; a plan that turns me on, inspires me and makes me happy. The first is mentoring. Over the years Ive volunteered for Big Brothers/Big Sisters, school based reading programs, as well

as library based English as a second language programs. But my real passion is traveling. Since my caregiving days are gratefully at an end mother-in-law, husband and mother Im free as the proverbial bird. Whether traveling, tutoring or mentoring, I find myself with people who are on an exciting journey. My biggest fear is being cooped up in my house with no new challenges, no new conversations, no new vistas to explore. That thought far outweighs any fears traveling solo in a strange land might present. Friends are prone to comment how lucky I am being single and free to do as I please. My retort: Luck is good planning carefully executed, but with wiggle room for change.

Need a Hard Copy of Lifestyles After 50?Get a years subscription to Lifestyles After 50 for only $12. Send your name, address and subscription fee to:

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P.O. Box 63

lifestyles after 50 suncoast november 2013 edition

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