Americana Cove

Spring Has Sprung

Apr 26, 2001

Edward Kelly
MAROA- President
It is that time of year again; our good friends head back home. The Board of Directors wishes them a safe trip home and hope they have a pleasant summer.

The reason we have the Best Park In Pinellas County is a credit to the Residents that make up this Park.

Prayer for May Forecaster
John Whittredge Hill, Chaplain

Gracious God, Heavenly Father, as I rode around St. Petersburg last month, I was impressed again with the beauty of your creation. The Jacaranda and Magnolia trees as well as others were in full blossom. Then we see the flowering bushes bursting with brilliant color and the list goes on.

Thank You, God, for the beauty with which you surround us. We love you and praise you.

One of the two important days this month is Mother?’s Day, the 13th Mothers come in all shapes and sizes and in an infinite variety of personalities. We all had one. Many of you reading this are one. Praise God for you all. If your Mother is not living send a note and say a prayer for someone who has ?“mothered?” a child: an aunt, a teacher, and a friend. All need to be loved and thanked.

Memorial or Veterans?’ Day used to be May 30th. Now it is the closest Monday so that the employed, or most of them, can have a long weekend.

Whatever or whenever, we owe a debt of gratitude to all veterans. Particularly those who sacrificed their lives or are permanently disabled. Seek a way to show your gratitude to anyone who served actively during a war.

Father, we pray for all veterans but more than that, we pray for peace and harmony throughout the world. Amen

Two Memorials have been given this month:
In loving memory of Jack Hubartt from John and Nancy Hill.
In loving memory of Ida Franson from John and Nancy Hill.

OPEN LETTER TO AL NOSEK
From Gus Covello, Forecaster Reporter
Dear Al,
You can run, Al, but you can?’t hide!

When you approached John Hill, Park chaplain, recently and Don Delzell, director of Vespers, and told them your story and informed them that you would like to do volunteer work in the Park and in the surrounding community, they took you at your word.

They asked me to write a story about it for the Forecaster. John Bassett, editor, agreed that the story was interesting enough to be used, so here it is.

And now the world will know, and the world will be looking for you.

I called some volunteer leaders in the Park and told them about you: That you are a recovering alcoholic, that early in your career you were involved in an industrial accident that severed an artery and nearly took your life. You recovered, but not long thereafter you suffered a heart attack.

You recovered from that, too, but years later you developed a brain tumor that would have been fatal had you not had surgery Again you recovered and shortly after that you entered an alcoholism recovery program.

When you completed the alcoholism program, you were a changed man. You developed an unshakeable belief in God and a strong desire to help other people.

For the past 15 years you have devoted much of your time to volunteer ministries. You worked with the homeless, the alcoholics, and drug addicts. You visited the sick and the lonely in hospitals and nursing homes. You made home visits to people in need

You worked two jobs and raised four children along the way, and you credit your wife (who died last year) for helping you to find the time to do all of this.

VOLUNTEER WORKERS IN MOBEL AMERICANA: Al, Mobel Americana is a beehive of volunteer workers, both inside and outside of the Park, but they need and welcome your help.

Volunteer leaders have provided me with the names of Park residents who participate in volunteer work outside of the Park (in the park volunteers are too numerous to list here).

Our Hospice volunteers include: Claire Barrett, Gloria Aubin, Len Berg, Bernice Boone, Gladys Dunn, Shirley Dunn, Dottie Farren, Claire and Bill Hart, Kay Jones, Vivian Linville, Berk and Alice O?’Reilly, Juanita Smouse, Tommy Thomas, and Jo Waldron.

Hospital volunteers are: Dottie Farren, Catherine Nagurney, Rene and Jan Renaud, Virginia Roman, Adele Seaman, Berk and Jo Waldron, and Hertha Yagel.

Community Resource Center (which works with the St. Petersburg Police Department to better maintain personal contact with the community): Gladys Dunn, Peggy Hubrich, Esther Louzon, Barbara Magada, Conrad Weiser and Mary Polonis.

Visiting Shut-ins (in hospitals, nursing homes, or at home): John Hill.

Al, have you found your niche yet?

If so, just pick up the phone and call one of the persons listed above. They are all listed in the Mobel Americana telephone directory.

Or just sit tight, and I?’m sure one of them will call you.

As we said before, Al, you can run, but you can?’t hide! Your size, your booming voice, and your outgoing personality will give you away!
Your friend, Gus Covello

PS: Dear reader: Al can be reached at 525-9591.

PAR SEEKERS GOLF by Russ Steele
Regular play at the Mainlands Golf Course ceased in April for the Par Seekers, with the intent to start up again on Thursdays in November at the same location, according to group chairman Carol Dunn.

Park residents who wish to play Mainlands during the summer months are advised to call for reservations at 577 2797.

The only leadership change planned for the group is that vice chairman Mike Regan will serve as events coordinator, succeeding Ed Higgins in this position. Regan will be in charge of weekly lineups and event scoring, handicaps, and various records. Pete and Leni Lambert will assist him.

Some 70 persons played one or more times with the Par Seekers during the winter season. There are 66 players with established handicaps. Pete and Leni Lambert were the only ones not to miss as regular outing during the season.

The best gross score during Thursday play was a 66 by Norm Begin, who also had two 67s (one of them in three club competition). Bill Ervin also carded a 68. The best gross scores for women players were a 75 by Carol Dunn and a 77 by Sally Corliss.

The next regular meeting of the group will be held in the clubhouse atrium at 10 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 5.

SHUFFLEBOARD NEWS
By Jo Waldron
Bert Zanaglio and Tom Solomon presented the trophies at the final event of the season, our banquet. As always, the food, catered by chief cook Betty Chase and her hard-working crew was the best! Tee Phillips spoke as a board member and as a shuffler, he reminded us once again how fortunate we are to live in Mobel Americana, a view shared by all.

The legs of one table, holding the trophies of the Olivier?’s, McGrath?’s & Misciagnas were bowed from the weight. Congratulations. Of course, you know we?’re all thinking ?— next year my table.

The Nova teams will have new captains next season; Ruth Healy will take over the Blue Team and Ellie Oliveira the Red team. It?’s not too early to mention, if you are interested in playing next year, contact them as soon as you return in the fall. Take a few lessons, practice, and you?’ll be ready when the season begins.

If you haven?’t been to the shuffleboard courts lately, what a surprise you are in for! There was a crew of 6 or 7 guys who accomplished the change in about 3 days. You may not know which end is up but we?’ll trust Tom Solomon when he says we will win more games now.

Last months report omitted two pin game team winners. In addition to Nick & Hazel Misciagna, who came in first, there was Ed & Doreen McGrath in 2nd place and Frank Pereira and Don Sackfield in 3rd

FRIENDSHIP SINGLES TOURNAMENT

Main Event: 1st place Sil Oliveira

Ladies: 3rd place Doreen McGrath 4th place Eva Pratt

Consolation: 1st place Ed McGrath

Ladies: 3rd place Ellie Oliveira

The end of another season, so busy that it?’s almost a blur when it?’s over, and oh, how it will be missed. We?’ll miss the tension and excitement of the games and miss, most of all, the shufflers, who have become good friends.

See you in the fall, safe journey-on and off the road.
Happy Shuffling

DEAR NEEDLECRAFTERS
By Annette Solomon
It?’s time to say ?“Goodbye?” to our needlecraft snowbirds (for a short while). Now that your heads are full of creative ideas, your hands will be busy and happy all summer long.

Meetings will continue in the park as scheduled on Mondays and Thursdays.

In September, a full program of exciting projects will be offered. Check your Forecaster for monthly updates.

Have a safe trip home and return safely in the fall!
See you there!

THE GARDEN CLUB
By Shirley LaForce
About 45 Garden Club members and guests enjoyed a lovely day and picnic on Thursday, April 10th, at the Bay Pines Memorial Park. Many thanks to all who brought dishes to share; and extra thanks to Betty, Tom and Nita, and others who manned the grills.
An abundance of good food, good conversation, and games ended our club year.
We hope to see all of you back for our fall meetings. Please watch the Forecaster for details.
Shirley LaForce

HORSESHOE CLUB
By Ginger Phillips
Our club was formed on March 1, 2001. The pits are complete and the horseshoes may be obtained from the shed alongside the office.

All park residents and guests are urged to play this summer. In November we will be forming club play, at which time there will be a one-time only initiation fee of $2.00, and yearly dues of $3.00.

There will be tournaments for singles and doubles ?— so lets start practicing.

Duplicate Bridge
Gerri Bassett

Mitchell Movement
Sunday March 18,2001
North & South
1. Lois & Leo Dwyre
2. Milene & Al Wingrove
3. Bev Hamel & Joan Dell?’Angelo

East & West
1. Gerri & John Bassett
2. Helen & Walter Smith
3. Agnes & Jerry Howland

Sunday March 25, 2001
North & South
1. Bev Hamel & Joan DellAngelo
2. Lois & Leo Dwyre
3. Esther Louzon & Shirley Beauchamp

East & West
1. Gem & John Bassett
2. Milene & Al Wingrove
3. Elaine Laberge & Linda Cook

Sunday April 1,2001
North & South
1. Harriett Gilbert & Tex Batchelder
2. Milene & Al Wingrove
3. Bev Hamel & Joan Dell?’ Angelo
4. Agnes & Jerry Howland

East & West
1. Helen & Walter Smith
2. MaryJane Hill & Don Delzell
2. Gerri & John Bassett

Sunday April 8,2001
North & South
1. Helen & Walter Smith
2.Tie
Lenore Helson & Harriett Gilbert Anne Kocher & Michelle Willett

East & West
1. Doris Gibson & Bernice Dekker
2. Gerri & John Bassett
3. Elizabeth Copeland & Maretta Dimke

NOTICES
There is located at the maintenance shed on Mt. Piney Avenue an air pump that you may use 24 hours a day to pump up your bicycle tires. Please replace the air hose on the hanger.
Forecaster
All items and other information for the Forecaster may be placed in the box just inside the entry doors to the Atrium. All items to be in BLACK INK Deadline for June (now 5.00pm); for general articles, the 1gth of May; for event announcements, the 21st. Please note that the minimum font size is number eleven (11).

Mia Booth thanks everyone who contributed to the great birthday party that was arranged and held for her in March. It is great to have such good friends, she said.
Canada Night ?— All monies made has been given to MAROA. Thanks to Bob Larsen and Bill Hart, for the decision to purchase three more park benches on behalf of all the Canadians. ?— Shirley Wadsworth and Dean Myers, Canadian Reps.
From the Editor - Apologies for the several errors that crept into the April Forecaster. Some are just the gremlins at work, but others are because the material submitted was not in proper format. Remember you are submitting articles, not writing a letter. The way you see it in the Forecaster is the way you should prepare it. If not, expect problems.
Thank you to Lucy LaBerge and Kay Sebek for noticing that Conrad Weiser?’s name was left out of the article on E-Mail service. Yes, he is the one to contact about this service.
From The Editor ?— The passing of Roly Ayotte was a sad loss to the park. Roly was one of the nicest people I knew and was always helpful and friendly to everyone. He shared his pontoon boat rides and ran the Cue Club. He was also, as some of you may know, the author of the ?“find the word?” puzzles that appeared from time to time in the Forecaster. We know he has gone to a greater place. We will all miss him.

THANK YOU
Virginia and Bertram Zanaglio wish to thank everyone for their prayers, cards and interest in the welfare of Virginia.
She is doing a lot better since she left the Nursing home. She has been riding her trike around the Park.
We give you all a very heart felt thanks Love You All.

THANK YOU - Emma & Nancy Hubartt and Family
We would like to thank all of you who so kindly remembered our family in this time of sorrow. Phone calls, cards, prayers and food were received for which we were extremely grateful. Your presence at his memorial was greatly appreciated for one who had only lived for 3 short years in Mobel Americana. What a loving family we have here in the park. My family and I say ?“God bless you all.?”
Signed,
Emma Hubartt

Thank you from the bottom of my heart to all of you who have sent cards and expressed condolences on the passing of my Mother, Ida Franson. Special thanks to John Hill for all his visits to my Mother and all his prayers. Because of the support and understanding I received from all of you I was able to give my Mother a very enjoyable last 13 years of her life. And I want to extend to my husband John special thanks for all his support and love over the years. My Mom truly loved him too.
Gerri Lyons

Former Welcome Lady
By Martha Pratt
I would like to take this opportunity to express my appreciation to Millie Berdeen for making me feel so welcome to the park shortly after I moved in. She arrived at my doorstep with a big smile and a beautiful yellow rose. We chatted awhile and then she escorted me to meet my next-door neighbors. What a wonderful way to be introduced. Thanks again, Millie, for the friendly welcome.

PARKINSON WALK A THON
Arlene Elwell
Another successful ?‘Walk For The Cure?” was held on Saturday March 31. The weather cooperated. The following people want to thank all who pledged. Doris Gibson, Tom and Annette Soloman, Arlene Elwell,

Gloria Shultes, Elmer Ringhof, Faith Brundage, Shirley LaForce, Gall Jones, Nora Adele Andrews, Carol and Ed Slade, and Harry Attwater.

Many other residents joined in, it was a nice feeling to have all the support.

The cause is worthwhile. The final total was $1,965.00. Thank you.

We all gathered at the Fishing Area, The Attwaters donated refreshments. Gert was the chief cook.

Harry was our chairman; Ray and Pauline Macomber were with us in spirit.

Monthly Bridge Luncheon
Gerri Bassett
Summer is here, so in May we will have a brown bag luncheon with bridge after.
It will be on May 16th at noon. You all come now, we have a nice afternoon and prizes will be given.

Potpourri
From the Editor?’s desk (additional contributions from Gem Bassett, Lucy Laberge and Nancy Hubartt)
Monthly Thought ?— Inside every older person is a younger person ?— wondering what the heck happened?’ (heck is not the word I would use!)

Advice for idiots/idiot stories (real ones) ?— The stoplight on the corner buzzes when it is safe to cross the street. I was crossing with a co ?— worker who wanted to know why the light buzzed when it was red. I said that it was so that blind people would know the light was red. She said, why are blind people driving anyway??
Dilbert?’ rules of order - Needing someone is like needing a parachute. If they aren?’t there at first, chances are you won?’t ever need them again.
Chinese proverb ?— I love to give homemade gifts... Which one of my kids do you want?

You?’re getting marvelously mature when ?— your back goes out but you stay home.

Fun definitions ?— adult; a person who has stopped growing at both ends and is now growing in the middle.
Things my kids taught me ?— (from Beverly Kennedy) certain legos will pass through the digestive tract of four year old.
I was thinking ?— when you blow in a dog?’s face he gets mad at you, but when in a car he sticks his head out the window. (Maybe the dog knows halitosis when he smells it)

Love is ?— when someone hurts you, and you get so mad, but you don?’t yell at them because you know it would hurt their feelings.
Remember when ?— (from John Stewart) Being tired from playing?’. Licking the beaters when your Mother made a cake.
By Dru Wheedlin

How can you unring a bell?

Or order the ink to its well
If a heart has been broken

By some word that?’s spoken

How can you, then, untell?

To all the Northerners who have gone and those who are leaving, bon voyage and have a good summer. See you in the fall.

BOARD BITS
By Dick Nemi, Board Member
One of the questions that arose from the open meeting in March was about street lighting. Due to strict budget restraints, we cannot afford any additional lighting at this time. However, it was suggested that everyone should turn on one outside light. This would have a threefold purpose. First it would let your neighbors know to check on you if it was not turned off by a certain time of day; second it would provided better security for you, as the guards making their rounds could see any activity in your driveway; and third it would illuminate the neighborhoods. The question of widening the gate at this time would also be cost prohibitive. Another question was; what is the policy on under the age 55 purchasing in the park? By state law we are required to accept a certain percentage. It has been determined that it will be handled on a case-by-case basis.

It was brought up that we should have telephones in the clubhouse and pool area to call 911 if the need arose. A suggestion was made that if anyone had unused cell phones, they could be used to dial 911. A few have been turned into the office, and maintenance is trying to figure a way of mounting them. As soon as a way can be found, it will be done.

We have a request from the maintenance department; that those who have fruit trees not fill your trashcans with the fruit. There are enough ways for workers to be injured without having to lift heavy cans of fruit. If you can?’t lift them, then our workers can?’t either. Also, they have asked that when you receive packages with Styrofoam pellets for packing material, that you place them in a sealed plastic bag; rather than loose in your trash can!

The office has received complaints about people taking short cuts across neighbor?’s yards. We all live in confined areas, and to insure privacy to everyone, please take the long way, most of us, my self-included, need the exercise anyway.

I think the water district likes to play with everyone?’s mind. You guessed it! They changed watering times again! We have returned to the old schedule of one day a week between 5AM to 9AM and 7PM to 11PM. Water days are Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Whatever your day to water was last fall, return to it. If you don?’t remember, check at the office, or check the notice at the main gate.

The ladies in the office have asked me to write about problems when the water is shut off. They have no control over broken pipes or shutting the water off. Some calls received are abusive and filled with foul language. This is not necessary and must stop!!!!!!! We are all adults, so please act like one!!!

It?’s that time of year when our winter friends head north. If you have permission from them to park in their driveways while they are gone, you must have it in writing and present it to the office. Remember, by our rules, you must have the owners permission and you may not park in empty lots!

We are having a problem with people feeding the birds. According to our rules you should not! It creates a big health problem as well as leaving a mess on cars and driveways. We all enjoy watching God?’s creatures, and they will still be here even if you do not feed them. Mother nature takes care of her own!

On a lighter note; a day prior to the last issue of the forecaster hitting the stands, I took my wife for a trip around the park on my golf cart, and lo and behold what did I see? Other dressed up ducks! I made the statement at that time that when the forecaster came out that I would catch holy h---! I was right! So, to all of you who display these ducks, please accept my most sincere apologies! They truly brighten everyone?’s day!!!

WELCOME TO OUR COMMUUITY
By Rosann DeCola

BPOWNLEE, Ruth & Wayne (Ont)
205 Mt. Isle Ave (527-0177)
(Moved from 6825 Americana Dr.)
(Previously Wiener Residence)

CLARK, Kenneth & Joyce
6815 Mt. Pleasant Rd (527-2485)
Moved from 6726 Americana Dr.
(Previously Veal/Handy Residence)

DREUTZER. Blame & Perry (WI)
7326 Americana Dr. (522-8324)
(Previously Benko Residence)

ERVIN. William & Reeda (WV)
7157 Mt. Arlington Dr. (526-7408)
(Previously MacGibbon Residence)

LEROY. Arlen & Lorraine (Ct)
654 Mt. Madison Ave
(Previously Anderson Estate)


VESTERMAN. Pamela (Resident)
(Purchased by parents -
MACPHERSON. Robert & Helga (De)
6703 Americana Dr.
(Previously MA Residence)

MASSEY. Dianne C. (Me)
7028 Mt. Jupiter Dr.
(Previously Bourlier Residence)

NOSEK. Al (Ma)
6721 Mt. Pleasant Rd. (525-9591)
(Previously Bubenhofer Residence)

SCHMALZ. Richard & MaryJoyce (Ky)
643 Mt. Madison Ave
(Previously Pethick Residence)

SLAVIN. Susan
6824 Americana Dr. (521-6888)
(Previously MA Property)

From the Library Club ?— a poem by author unknown.
?“The Book Club?” We?’re the ladies of the book club who meet each month to discuss. A different member?’s selections. We?’ve tried to read without a fuss!

First we chat over coffee,
And say how well each other looks.
Then we compliment our hostess
For this celebration of books.

Sometimes there?’s a whispered murmur
If the author didn?’t please...
But never is there any ill-will,
Just affectionately we tease.

Then we gather to attention
As our moderator expounds upon the ?“gist?”.
Of the plot, the action, the triumphs, the trials...
Of this month?’s protagonist!

We read the quotes we?’ve underlined
Proffer ideas from different poles,
And often when we share our thoughts
We really bare our souls.

It seems we read on another level
When we ponder questions, one by one...

And often we agree to disagree,
And that is half the fun!

Too, we?’re always grateful to read a book
That might have gone unread...
And for our meetings brilliant and funny
As we expound on that what we?’ve read.

Tho?’ we pose as rather literary
I suspect we?’ve other ends...
Not the least, the chance to get together
And enjoy the company of our friends.

And then the precious gift we all receive,
That never fails to surprise.
The gift of seeing, for a few hours each month
The world through each other?’s eyes.

For May 2001 FORECASTER
John Hill
WATERING PROBLEMS?
Here are two possibilities for obtaining water for your flowers:
1. Collect water in a bucket form the cold water you run in the shower before it becomes warm.
2. If you can put a bucket under the drain of your air conditioner you can collect the humid air during its operation.
Good luck.

LIBRARY CLUB NEWS
Nora Adell Andrews

?“A room without books is like a body without a soul.?” -Cicero

The attending members of the Library Club officially approved of our new name of ?“Friends of the Library?”. This club has no dues, and welcomes everyone to come and learn how the library functions. We meet once a month, on the second Thursday of the month at 1:00 p.m. We discuss any related news and duties, and then someone introduces facts about the author and presents the monthly selected book for discussion. This was out last meeting until November, and we would welcome you to join us then. If you would like to remain at the meeting and discuss the book for November, it is Are You Somebody? By Nuala O?’Faolain. Jerry Regan will lead the discussion about this memoir of a Dublin woman.

Nancy Hubartt attended the MAA Council meeting and was pleased to report that the shelving was approved. The new shelving is to be 15ft. long and that is to include the magazine racks. Hopefully this will be accomplished by next fall.

The new signs are on part of the existing shelves also. Rita Lewis, the head librarian, asked for volunteers to work on the pile of puzzles, sorting and labeling. Nancy Hubartt and Jeanne Pavlik offered to help sometime in May.

Our basket of used glasses is full, and Joan Mitchell volunteered to take the glasses to Vision Works. They refurbish them, and give them to the Lion?’s Club.

Joan Mitchell presented the book for the month, Tara Road by Maeve Binchy. This Irish author has had several best selling books. The setting for this book is in Ireland and America, and her network of characters seems to be highly identifiable in the world today.

MAA EVENTS FOR MAY
Betty Chase, Pres.

Don?’t forget the MAA Council meeting on Tues. May 1 at 10:00 am in the Club House. Then on Wed. at 12 noon will be our last meeting until Sept. However, luncheons will be served followed by bingo the first Wednesday of July and August at 12 noon.

Tickets will be sold at the luncheon May 2, Wed. at 11:00am for a standing rib roast dinner honoring Mother?’s Day to be served on Sat. May 12th. Cost will be $6.00. Please watch the bulletin boards for final details! We will have a?” Best Decorated Hat Parade?” with prizes being awarded. Of course we?’ll need all ?“male?” judges!!

Our traditional Memorial Day Celebration will be Monday May 28. We begin with a special service honoring our Veterans of Mobel Americana at 10:00am. This is followed b donuts and coffee. The evening will begin with a dinner at 5:00pm followed with entertainment to be announced later. Tickets will be sold preceding the Old Timers Luncheon on May 23. Any one wishing to assist as color guards please sign-up at the Club House bulletin board.

Also there will be a volunteer list for dinner clean up. The people that work the dinners spend a few days of preparation and by the time they finish serving you they are worn out. We would ask that each of you that enjoy our efforts help by signing-up for at least ONE dinner per season. We need three for emptying the refuse containers and replacing with fresh bags. Perhaps you are not aware that our affairs are usually on Sat. and there is no maintenance staff until Mon. That means we must clean up everything for Vespers on Sun, Also needed are three people to wash off tables. Of course this would not be necessary if each group would take care of their own mess. Then there should be at least five in the kitchen to do dishes. By next Sept I will have a list of the coming seasons events for you to sign for the job of your choice. Your cooperation in this matter will greatly appreciate!!

Please have a great summer and you will be missed. It becomes quite still in the park when so many migrate north. Looking forward to a fun filled season when you return. After all, isn?’t that what retirement is all about??

VESPERS
By Gus Covello, Reporter
MEMORIAL DONATIONS
The following memorial donation was made in April:
Charlotte Crowell donated an oaken Latin Cross to Vespers in memory of her husband, Elliott.

The oaken cross replaces a plain white cross (painted) that has been used by Vespers for the past several years. Leo Laberge, a long time member of the hobby shop, constructed the oaken cross.

SUNSHINE REPORT MAY 2001
PEGGY HUBRICH DEATHS;

DEATHS
Louise McElhose
Roland Ayotte
Ray Layton
Clifford Cram
Ida Franson

NURSING HOMES;
Jane Bryan Maria Manor
Mitzi Delzell Shore Acres
Mary Ping Suncoast Manor
Erna Wring Carrington Place
Anita Verrault Fountain Senior Properties
Lana Evans Carrington Place
Milton Johnson Shore Acres
Carl Rosenquist Westminster Shores
Alice Connors Carrington Place

BIRTHDAYS;
01 Edith Unverzagt
Fern Eppers
02 Charlie Smith
03 Teresa Cresse
Claudette LeBrun
07 Jerry Spetz
Pete Lambert
Mickie Volbelt
08 Gus Covello
Andrea Simmons
09 Gene Latreille
11 Nancy Hill
Gertrude Stasch
Rudy Ferrara
Berk Waldron 12 Wilma Jones
Carol Slade
Bob Breen
14 Ken Garrett
Olga Bates
Ed Church
16 Carol Undieme
Lorraine Brown
17 Genevieve Greene
19 Jane Archambault
24 Ruth Fay
Hilda Vanderheydem
Rita Salter
26 Jack Moersdorf
29 Cal St Sauver
Kay Jones
Dottie Kirby
30 Jane Swartout







ANNIVERSARIES?’
04 Lana and Lee Cote 29 years
10 Annette and Tom Solomon 48 years
25 Margie and Carl Slaugenhaupt 38 years
29 Norine and Richard Fisher47 years
30 Claudette and Gil LeBrun48 years
31 Barbara and Ed Higgins48 years

The Medical Corner
Marci Sadorf RN.
Bayshorehomecare.com
Online Can Be a Lifeline
Harry, 82 had begun to spend much of his time in bed sleeping his day away. His serious health problems were a factor, but his wife became alarmed that he seemed to be giving up on life. She recruited their teenage grandson to hook up an inexpensive computer and give him basic lessons. Though Harry couldn?’t even type, the new technology intrigued him. Replacing his midday nap with Internet surfing, he soon began emailing his daughter across the country. ?“My goat is to become a computer sophisticate,?” he told her.
Harry?’s enthusiasm is typical, report researchers at Duke University. In a four-month study, 27 residents of a Durham, North Carolina, retirement community were trained to use email and the Internet. At an average age of 77, volunteers in the study attended classes three times a week for two weeks. They worked on donated Macintosh computers and had brief homework assignments and ample access to the computers between classes.
Gaining computer skills led to a trend toward decreased loneliness and less depression among participants in the pilot study. Months after the study, 60 percent of trainees were using the Internet on their own. ?“We found no negatives,?” observes geriatrician Heidi White, M.D., senior fellow at the Duke Center For Aging and Human Development.
What do seniors explore online? One Durham participant seeks out websites on her hobbies, such as quilting and bonsai; others check stock prices or sports information. Harry visits sites cited as resources in newspaper articles and checks local travel information. ?“If I want to go to a new place, I get door-to-door directions online], which are terrific every time I use them,?” he recalls.
?“My patients bring in things they?’ve read on the Web -- often health-related,?” reports another geriatrician, Barrie Raik, M.D., of the Irving S. Wright Center for Aging at Cornell Medical Center. ?“Older people have more health problems, so they?’re likely to look up things about themselves.?” Some of Harry?’s friends have even set up databases to track their medications and visits to the doctor.

Senior fears
Opting to go online can cause anxiety, especially about the expense or difficulty involved. ?“New, less costly equipment lowers one barrier: fear of crashing or breaking the computer. Seniors are very concerned about doing something wrong,?” Dr. White explains.
And typing skills are not necessary. Only a lengthy email letter requires more than a simple one-finger typing style. Even folks with arthritis who ?‘cannot type because of pain or disfigurement can still manage to use the keyboard with one or two fingers since speed is irrelevant, Dr. White points out.

Can any senior learn to use a computer? ?“Most older people can learn to use a computer with little difficulty, but if they have early cognitive impairment then it is frustrating because of the detail and attention that are required. They might be still trading stocks, but have forgotten how to get online,?” says Dr. Raik.

Adaptive devices or techniques can surmount most physical barriers, though, says Dr. White. ?“To get around visual limits, magnify various aspects of the screen. Arthritis isn?’t a computer problem -- speed is not required. The mouse is usually easy to use, but if not, get a roller ball. A sound card lets you hear as well as see things.?”

Connecting with people electronically actually eases many old-age hassles. ?“For seniors who can?’t walk, drive, or travel to visit other people -- or for an older adult caring for someone with a serious illness who rarely gets out -- computers can lessen feelings of loneliness, social isolation, and depression,?” notes Dr. White. A connection to the Internet is a way to expand and enhance any senior?’s social circle, she believes.

Gaining access
Basic email and Internet skills are taught -- often free of charge -- in many communities at public libraries, senior centers, and adult education classrooms. Harry attended free three-hour sessions at his local veterans?’ hospital, for example.
It?’s worth seeking a class designed specifically for older adults, who often prefer to learn at a slower pace. The Durham trainer provided a step-by-step manual and had students work in pairs. An ?“email-pal?” program with Kansas?’s junior-high-school students proved as popular as the written manual.
Seniors on fixed incomes can avoid the costs of getting online; if seniors are mobile, a weekly visit to a local library or an Internet cafe may provide enough email or Internet time. For a home computer, a late 1990s model handed down from a grandchild who is upgrading, or one purchased from a resale computer shop, will probably have adequate software. Even the newest equipment can be purchased at a low price. Make sure that any computer purchased comes with a modem. Or, if you?’re a senior with cable television, ask your cable company if it has broadband services through a cable modem.
The cost of sending an email is less than that of a long-distance telephone call, and free email accounts are available. Check with Lycos, Yahoo, or Hotmail. Even free Internet service is available -- from Juno or from NetZero, Harry?’s choice. ?“Sometimes I have to wait a long time
SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT
Submitted by Eva Pratt
Eleanor Roosevelt wrote:
Many people will walk in and out of your life,
But only true friends will leave footprints in your
Heart. To handle yourself, use your head;
To handle others, use your heart.
Anger is only one letter short of danger.
If someone betrays you once, it is his fault;
If he betrays you twice, it is your fault.
Great minds discuss ideas;
Average minds discuss events;
Small minds discuss people.
He, who loses money, loses much;
He, who loses a friend, loses much more;
He, who loses faith, loses all.
Beautiful young people are accidents of nature,
But beautiful old people are works of art.
Learn from the mistakes of others.
You can?’t live long enough to make them all yourself.
Friends, you and me....
You brought another friend....

And then there were 3....
We started our group....
Our circle of friends....
There is no beginning or end....
Yesterday is history.
Tomorrow is mystery.
Today is a gift.

Newspapers and Magazine Recycling

All newspapers are to be placed in the newspaper bins. Please do not put brown paper or plastic bags in the newspaper bins. The bins are only for newspapers.

A magazine bin is located at the storage compound on Americana Drive. Please take all your magazines to this bin.

Aluminum Cans and Scrap Metal

Please put these out on Tuesdays only or take to one of the Old-timers Aluminum sheds. Do not put in the garbage compactor. It is for household garbage only.

Yard Brush and Tree Trimmings

Place all yard brush and tree trimmings at the side of the road separate from the garbage and it will be picked up. Do not put it with the regular garbage. This only increases the amount we must pay to have hauled away.

Help the Boy Scouts ?— There is a shed at the American Drive compound where you can place your old phone books. By keeping as much as possible of all these materials out of the garbage we save on garbage hauling costs as well as generating some funds, not only for us, but for the Scouts as well.
Bertram Zanaglio, MAROA Board member.

FOR RESERVATIONS CALL PHYLLIS BURG
NEW CASTLE, ST. PETE
MAY 2001

MAY 2, WED. - CENTRO YBOR, visit one of our newest shopping/entertainment/dining centers, this trip features free admission (for women) to the movie ?“Good Will Hunting?” at 10:00 AM. . $17
MAY 7, MON. - NEW! SEE ?“FANTASIA?” at the new TAMPA CHANNELSIDE IMAX Theater w/lunch at The Colonnades. . $42
MAY 9, WED. - SHOPPING WITH GAIL, at Ellenton Prime Outlets Mall. . $18
MAY 10, THURS. - LUNCH BUNCH, Food, Friendship & Fun at the Seafood Shack in Cortez. . $26
MAY 10, THURS. - ?“SUGAR BABIES?” at the Broadway Palm Dinner Theater, matinee w/meal . . .$51
MAY 20, SUN. - ?“CAROUSEL?” at the Stage Door Dinner Theater, matinee w/meal . . .$49
MAY 21, MON. - CENTRO YBOR, visit this exciting new shopping, entertainment & dining attraction...$17
MAY 22, TUES. - STERUNG CASINO, 5 hour Gambling Cruise from Cape Canaveral with meal, entertainment & beverage/cocktail service while gambling included...$22
MAY 23, WED. - MYSTERY TOUR...$37
MAY 24, THURS. - CHALET SUZANNE visit this exquisite resort, includes a BUFFET meal. . $44
MAY 25, FRI. - HOLY LAND PARK in Orlando includes transportation & admission. . $36
MAY 26, SAT. - FISHERMANS VILLAGE, Memorial Day Weekend ARTS & CRAFTS FAIR...$20
MAY 29, TUES. - BELLEVIEW BILTMORE HOTEL TOUR with MEAL. . $39

JUNE 2001
JUNE 2, SAT. - MOUNT DORA, a leisurely day of shopping, browsing & lunch on your own. . $22
JUNE 8, FRI. - HOLY LAND PARK in Orlando, includes transportation & admission...$36
JUNE 9, SAT. - ?“FOREVER PLAID?” matinee at the Show Palace in Hudson with lunch included. . $53
JUNE 10, SUN. - ?“CIRQUE du SOLEIL?” spectacular performance of ?“LaNouba?” with lunch on your own at Downtown Disney. . $95
JUNE 14, THURS. - LUNCH BUNCH, Food, Fun & Friendship. . $TBA
JUNE 20, WED. - NEW! CHANNELSIDE IMAX ?“Into the Deep?” w/punch at The Colonnades & time to browse. . $42
JUNE 22, FRI. - YBOR CITY TOUR with lunch at Spaghetti Warehouse & Ybor City Brewing Co. tour...$32
JUNE 23, SAT. - DISNEY THEME PARKS, transportation only special. . $25
JUNE 25, MON. - WINERY TOUR at the Rosa Fiorelli Winery & Vineyard in Bradenton, includes lunch...$34
JUNE 27, WED. - BISHOP PLANETARIUM, visit Snooty the Manatee with lunch at Millers . . .$38
JUNE 28, THURS. - ?“NEVER TOO LATE?” at the Broadway Palm Dinner Theater in Ft. Myers matinee w/meal...$51
JUNE 30, SAT. - KIRK ORGAN CONCERT celebrating Independence Day, w/lunch at Luby?’s. . $36