Category: Living Life

What’s So Good About Growing Older?

So, the editor of Generations Magazine calls me and says, “Frank, let’s do another column for the magazine. We loved having your thoughts in the magazine, so please … hana hou!” Then the editor came back and said, “But this time, Frank, write about getting older and staying fit … snicker, snicker.”

In my mind, fitness is like saving money. For example, if you had the presence of mind while you were in your “stupid” years to put money in that piggy bank, then you’ve probably been pretty good with money during your lifetime and now enjoy some level of financial security. Now, apply this concept to fitness. The more you put into your “fitness piggy bank” over the years, the more you’ll get back in return during your “enlightened” years. Ah, but there’s a caveat … I know people who live on the edge, from paycheck to paycheck, and are the happiest guys I know. And, I also know people who have a lot of money and are miserable! Because wherever you are right now, there you are! There’s no right or wrong in this matter …

Tango And Spice — Oil on Canvas
Frank B. Shaner

This column is not meant to judge your financial or physical wellbeing. It’s only here to point out the oddities and the triumphs in life, plus the flaws inherent to the human spirit and psyche. Mahatma Gandhi once said, “You may never know what results come of your actions, but if you do nothing, there will be no results.” This quote is obviously open to interpretation, but perhaps you can use it as inspiration to do

things that will change your life — and the life of others — for the better. Give as much as you want, uplift as many as you can, and strive for the highest spiritual, emotional and physical well being possible. See how far you can go, and then see what happens …

It’s really not very complicated. This vessel (body) that was given to us is a remarkable, fine-tuned instrument. Say for example that you play a guitar, and you love that instrument because it gives you joy and freedom. It brings out emotions deep within your soul; it brings fourth creativity you didn’t realize you had. In other words, it enhances your well being. So naturally, you’d take good care of it. Shouldn’t we do the same with the beautiful bodies we travel in? Shouldn’t we keep them tuned so that they will continue to serve us as we move through this life? Of course! And it doesn’t take much. The body needs to move, stretch and be challenged. We live in an extraordinary place. The climate is perfect for outdoor activity, so let’s embrace it as much as we can. So, I say (in least judgmental way possible), get off your ass and move that mass! Put on some walking shoes and dance in the grass. Get outdoors! Your body will love you for it … it’s never too late!

Join in a conversation with Frank B. Shaner on Facebook and experience his art online at www.frankbshaner.com.

So, the editor of Generations Magazine calls me and says, “Frank, let’s do another column for the magazine. We loved having your thoughts in the magazine, so please … hana hou!” Then the editor came back and said, “But this time, Frank, write about getting older and staying fit … snicker, snicker.” In my mind,…
AARP Hawai’i: Life Reimagined

After the kids were grown, Rhee, a career pharmacist turned fulltime mother, weighed second-career options. She thought of teaching or returning to a pharmacy, but memories of her church’s baking class brought back fond childhood memories of afternoon tea and pastries.

Today, a little more than two years after launching her small business venture — Mama Nita Scones — she has grown from selling scones at farmers’ markets to being a sought-after pastry company that fulfills online catering and gift-box orders.

“As a pharmacist I had to be very exact about filling prescriptions, so that attention to detail probably carried over to my baking,” Rhee says.

At age 50, Rhee did what thousands of Hawaii baby boomers have done or are considering doing — pursuing new passions in adulthood. Many people redirect their lives after major turning points, such as parenthood, retirement or care for elderly parents.

AARP has launched an initiative called Life Reimagined to help older adults unlock their dreams and navigate new life stages. Life Reimagined offers flexible online and offline programs, experiences, resources and services. www.lifereimagined.aarp.org.

AARP has also created Life Reimagined for Work to help experienced workers achieve their employment goals. It’s a social network- based jobs program, connecting workers (with 20-plus years of career experience) with employers who seek qualified workers for more satisfying work and entrepreneurial opportunities. www.workreimagined.aarp.org.

As for Rhee, she’s looking at new ventures such as creating wedding favors and setting up a scone factory. While expanding is one option, she says firmly that, “making money is not the sole purpose of my business … I have a mission.” She dreams of training people in underdeveloped countries about her business model so they can sustain themselves. Recently, a church member approached her about training women in Thailand to bake scones for coffee shops.

Anita’s eyes twinkle at the prospect of doing good work and using local fruits to develop new flavors. Up every morning from 4 a.m., she’s baking her way toward her dreams one scone at a time. For a closer look at what she’s doing in the kitchen, visit www.mamanitascones.com.

Contact AARP Hawai‘i for more information:
State Office: 808-545-6024 | Toll-Free: 866-295-7282
hiaarp@aarp.org | www.aarp.org/states/hi

After the kids were grown, Rhee, a career pharmacist turned fulltime mother, weighed second-career options. She thought of teaching or returning to a pharmacy, but memories of her church’s baking class brought back fond childhood memories of afternoon tea and pastries. Today, a little more than two years after launching her small business venture —…
Medicare? Are You There Yet?

Remember the familiar line chanted by children being driven somewhere, “Are we there yet?”

As I visit companies to conduct Medicare preretiree seminars, I hear employees nearing the age of Medicare eligibility, quietly asking each other something similar —“Are You There Yet?”

Most can hardly believe they are reaching their 65th birthday and will soon qualify for Medicare.

About 17,000 people in Hawai‘i are expected to turn 65 next year. Many may still be working and need to understand how Medicare will coordinate with their employer health coverage. Others want to learn more about valuable benefits, like FREE preventive screenings. Here are some rules:

STOP — Determine when you will first become eligible for benefits. You can use the Medicare Eligibility Tool at www.medicare.gov. This will help you avoid late enrollment penalties.

LOOK — You should get your Medicare card in the mail a few months before your 65th birthday. Contact Social Security and Medicare if you do not receive your card. You can reach Social Security at 800-772-1213 or Medicare at 800-633-4227.

LISTEN — Learn more about your options by attending Medicare workshops during the Medicare Annual Open Enrollment Period, Oct. 15th through Dec. 7th. You can also call or meet with a licensed agent for more information.

So ask for directions if you need to, sit back and relax. You are almost there!

Martha Khlopin hosts the popular weekly radio program “Medicare Moment with Martha — The World of Medicare” sponsored by AlohaCare. It airs on KHNR-690AM on Saturdays from 11–11:30 a.m. and on KGU-99.5FM on Sundays from 10–10:30 a.m.For info, call (808) 973-0754, mkhlopin@alohacare.org.

Remember the familiar line chanted by children being driven somewhere, “Are we there yet?” As I visit companies to conduct Medicare preretiree seminars, I hear employees nearing the age of Medicare eligibility, quietly asking each other something similar —“Are You There Yet?” Most can hardly believe they are reaching their 65th birthday and will soon…
25th Annual Talk Story Festival

Around the world, every culture has it’s own way of sharing information and stories. In the Islands, we know it as ‘talk story.’ These informal conversations are about slowing down and taking the time to share ideas, stories, history and opinions with the people around you. The upcoming annual Talk Story Festival aims to keep the conversation going with hopes of inspiring and connecting us all.

The Department of Parks and Recreation invites you to two free nights to the 25th Annual Talk Story Festival, Hawai‘i’s oldest and largest storytelling celebration. Some of Hawai‘i’s best storytellers and mainland guests are featured. Nine storytellers each night, 20 minutes each, with dramatic lighting and gifted sign language interpreters. Video of these performances is projected beside the stage. Gates open at 5 p.m. Big crowds are expected, so come early both nights!

*SP0oOoKY STORIES

Friday, October 18, 6 p.m.– 9:30 p.m.

* THINK DEEP TALES

Saturday, October 19, 6 p.m.– 9:30 p.m.

(Touring O‘ahu, neighbor islands and public libraries the following week.)

Ala Wai Golf Course Clubhouse Ballroom

Hawai‘i Tellers will include:

‘Tita’ Kathy Collins (Maui), Yasu Ishida (Japan), Dan Kelin II (Honolulu Theater for Youth), Sandra MacLees (Big Island), James McCarthy (guitar man), Shain Miller (Ong King), Kilohana Silve (hula & story), Jeff Gere (hosts both nights).

Mainland Guests:

Lyn Ford (Ohio) & Kuniko Yamamoto (Japan)

For more information, contact Jeff Gere at 808-768-3032, jgere@honolulu.gov. and visit www.honoluluparks.com.

Around the world, every culture has it’s own way of sharing information and stories. In the Islands, we know it as ‘talk story.’ These informal conversations are about slowing down and taking the time to share ideas, stories, history and opinions with the people around you. The upcoming annual Talk Story Festival aims to keep…
Enjoy the Summer of Your Life

Seniors of all ages and their families will find that Oahu offers an array of events from July 8 to August 16th, ranging from a dance festival to “sake tasting.” Mark your calendars today for one or all of these exciting events.

Altamira Dance Company

From July 8th to 21st, some of the world’s most acclaimed performers, teachers and critics from Hawai‘i and the Asia Pacific Region will converge in Honolulu for the second biennial Asia Pacific Dance Festival. One of Hawai‘i’s featured artists will be Halau Na Kamalei O Lililehuna with kumu hula Robert Cazimero. Other artists are from New Zealand’s Atamira Dance Company, Taiwan’s Taipei National University of the Arts, and Korea’s Samulgwangdae. The East-West Center Arts Program and the University of Hawai‘i at Manoa’s Outreach College are co-producing these events. For information, call 808-958-8246 or visit www.outreach.hawaii.edu/community/asiapacific/.

“Living the Art of Hula”

July 11, Thursday, 7:30 p.m., Kennedy Theatre

Halau Na Kamalei O Lililehua

This stunning performance will bring together three kumu hula who have been leaders in the hula community for the past three decades. An intimate conversation with kumu hula Robert Cazimero, Vicky Holt Takamine and Michael Pili Pang will open the concert with their personal journeys in hula, the traditions and the process they go through to create new choreography.
Halau Na Kamalei O Lililehuna (Cazimero), Halau Hula Ka No‘eau (Pang), and Pua Ali‘i ‘Ilima (Takamine) will have performances showcasing the creative choreography of each of the featured kumu hula.

Samulgwangdae

Samulgwangdae

July 14, Sunday, 2 p.m., Kennedy Theatre

This Sunday afternoon performance will be by the globally renowned samulnori group Samulgwangdae from Korea. The four core percussionists are masters of the changgo (hourglass-shaped drum), kkwaenggwari (small gong), buk (barrell drum) and ching (large gong). The musicians and dancers will create a captivating blend of Korea’s traditional farmers’ band music, acrobatic military exercises and shamanistic ceremonies with its own modern compositions and theatricality.

Taipei National Unversity of the Arts

The Asia Pacific Dance Festival Welcome Ceremony

July 19, Friday, 6 p.m.
East-West Center Friendship Circle

FREE to the public. It will feature the artists from the Atamira Dance Company, Taipei National University of the Arts (TNUA), and Halau Na Kamalei
O Lililehuna. The TNUA is equated with excellence in Taiwan and around the world. Their alumni have gained respect and international acclaim as professional choreographers dancers, teachers and researchers.

“Journeys” Performances

Kennedy Theatre
July 20, Saturday, 7:30 p.m.
July 21, Sunday, 2 p.m.

A different performance each day, one of which will be by the Atamira Dance Company who is the leading creator and presenter of Maori contemporary dance theater of Aotearoa, New Zealand.

Festival Public Forum

July 21, Sunday, 4:45 p.m., East-West Center (Jefferson Hall Imin Conference Center)

Another FREE event. The Sunday’s “Journeys” performance will be followed by a discussion with the visiting artists and special guest dance critics Deborah Jowitt and Steve Villaruz. It will be moderated by UH Manoa Assistant Professer Tammy Baker.

Continuing with the “music theme,” young and old ukulele
performers from around the world will come together for Hawai‘i’s largest ukulele concert in Kapiolani park. This event is FREE to the public.

Tony Group Autoplex presents the 43rd Annual Ukulele Festival

Roy Sakuma

July 21, Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Kapiolani Pk.

The first Ukulele Festival started in 1971 by ukulele master Roy Sakuma. Some of this year’s international lineup of performers will come from Japan, Australia, Taiwan, and Thailand, plus the Mainland, as well as many from Hawai‘i’s own, including Ohta-San and 11-year old Aidan James of YouTube Sensation. The Roy Sakuma Ukulele Band of some 800 keiki, teens and adults will also perform popular tunes. For the 42nd straight year in a row, Hawai‘i’s Ambassador of Aloha, Danny Keleikini, will serve as the emcee.

Free parking and shuttle service from Kapiolani Community College and back will be available from 8:30am–5:30pm. Ukulele displays and giveaways, food booths, inflatable bouncers for keiki, and Ukulele Festival souvenir t-shirts add to the lively, festive atmosphere. For more information, email info@ukulelefestivalhawaii.org or visit www.ukulelefestivalhawaii.org.

“The Joy of Sake”

August 16th, Friday, 6:30 p.m.– 9 p.m.
Hawai‘i Convention Center

This event was founded in Honolulu in 2001 as a way to give sake enthusiasts an opportunity to experience and appreciate premium sakes from breweries all over Japan. The event will feature “competition sakes” from the U.S. National Sake Appraisal — each recently bottled and cold-stored to ensure maximum flavor.

The Appraisal is a blind tasting conducted by a team of ten judges from Japan and the U.S. All 300+ entries will be available for tasting. Tickets are available at www.joyofsake.com and are $85 per person ($95 at the door).

Seniors of all ages and their families will find that Oahu offers an array of events from July 8 to August 16th, ranging from a dance festival to “sake tasting.” Mark your calendars today for one or all of these exciting events. From July 8th to 21st, some of the world’s most acclaimed performers, teachers…
What’s So Good About Growing Older?

Every week I talk to people who are newly eligible for Medicare insurance or are already enrolled in a plan. While some are happy to be at the age to get those senior discounts at retail shops and restaurants, some, not so much. They would rather trade those discounts for the yonder days of platform shoes and “discothèques.” Did you recognize that word? Might be time for you to learn more about Medicare.

So for those who need a little coaxing to embrace the idea that life can be good at any age, let’s look at some words of wisdom cloned from, where else, the Internet.

As we age let’s, become more peaceful. And whose business is it anyway, if we choose to read, watch TV, or play on the computer, until 3?

We can walk the beach, in a swim suit stretched over our beautiful bulging bodies, and dive into the waves, despite “stink eye” from the young, with their lean, mean, six-pack abs. They, too, will grow old.

As we grow older, let’s care less about what other people think. We have earned the right to be wrong.

So, to answer the question, what’s so good about growing older? We can choose to love the person we have become. We have an excuse to forget the things we choose to no longer remember.

We can have a “senior moment”, eat, drink and be merry and finally understand Medicare!

Martha Khlopin hosts the popular weekly radio program “Medicare Moment with Martha — The World of Medicare” sponsored by AlohaCare. It airs on KHNR-690AM on Saturdays from 11–11:30 a.m. and on KGU-99.5FM on Sundays from 10–10:30 a.m.For info, call (808) 973-0754, mkhlopin@alohacare.org.

Every week I talk to people who are newly eligible for Medicare insurance or are already enrolled in a plan. While some are happy to be at the age to get those senior discounts at retail shops and restaurants, some, not so much. They would rather trade those discounts for the yonder days of platform…
My Take on Things: Shuzi Health Jewelry

It was September 8, 2011 that I had a stroke … some say it was “mild” and some say it was a “nerve stroke” while I say, “It happened, now move on!” Every day since then, I test myself on doing things with my right side. Within two weeks I got rid of the walker but was very careful getting around. Driving and bouncing a tennis ball took two months. Walking down a flight of stairs without using the handrail or wall took nine months — that’s when I bought a Shuzi bracelet and walked down 12 steps with no problem (at the bottom of the stairs, I turned around to look up in amazement). I did more “self-tests” like balancing on my right leg for 40 seconds instead of the 3 seconds before Shuzi and walking on stepping stones on the side of our house with ease. There are so many products out there that claim a lot of things, but this one I believe made a HUGE difference to my “balance” in life.

This is what I know: Shuzi (pronounced Shoo-zee) has been an international company since 2004. The jewelry utilizes a proprietary “Nano Vibrational Technology” Chip from the United States which is programmed to resonate with your cells’ natural frequencies. The chip sends out a pulse that balances the body’s bio-field and blood cells become much rounder and stronger promoting better blood flow, which means more oxygen through the body.

Studies with QEEG (brain mapping) showed on average 25% improvement in cognitive efficiency and 20% improvement in emotional efficiency. The full study is on shuziusa.com.

So, don’t just take my word for it. As in anything else, try it yourself and do your own testing. I think you’ll be pleased.

For more information, Shuzi Hawai‘i can be reached at 808-386-0929, www.shuziliving.com.

It was September 8, 2011 that I had a stroke … some say it was “mild” and some say it was a “nerve stroke” while I say, “It happened, now move on!” Every day since then, I test myself on doing things with my right side. Within two weeks I got rid of the walker but was…
Summer Green Smoothie

Summer brings in the time of year when melons are in season. Watermelon, honeydew and cantaloupe are rich in vitimins, minerals and antioxidants such as beta-carotene, lycopene, potassium, magnesium vitamin A and C. Adding them to a green smoothie makes for a tasty drink and a great way to get a lot of healthy nutrients into your body at one time.

Blend well to milkshake consistency. Enjoy! See link for demo: www.youtu.be/16U9a1Vhoak.

Ingredients

1 apple or pear
1 banana
3 pineapple spears
Handful of blueberries
1 cup watermelon
1 cup Kale
1 cup Spinach
Handful of mint leaves

Summer brings in the time of year when melons are in season. Watermelon, honeydew and cantaloupe are rich in vitimins, minerals and antioxidants such as beta-carotene, lycopene, potassium, magnesium vitamin A and C. Adding them to a green smoothie makes for a tasty drink and a great way to get a lot of healthy nutrients…
“Lite” and Creamy Pasta with Asparagus and Shrimp

A colorful summer delight. You’ll want to use a nice rigatoni (tube) or farfalle (bowtie) pasta for this recipe. The shape of the pasta is perfect with the creamy sauce and serves as the perfect backdrop for the beautiful greens and pinks of the asparagus and shrimp.

1 lb uncooked pasta
4 oz lite or fat free cream cheese
1 cup chicken stock
Juice of 3 lemons (reserve lemon zest)
1 lb U16-20 shrimp (shelled and deveined)
1 bunch asparagus (woody part discarded)
Salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese

Put a large pot of water over high heat and bring to a boil. Add peeled/cleaned shrimp and asparagus and poach for 2-3 minutes or less, until shrimp has just turned pink. Remove from heat and set aside. Prepare pasta according to package directions, drain, reserving 2/3 cup of the cooking liquid. Heat a small sauce pan over medium heat and slowly add the cream cheese to the stock, using a whisk to break up and blend the two ingredients. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the cooking liquid. Once the cream cheese has been incorporated, whisk in the lemon juice.

Slice the asparagus on the diagonal and add to the cream sauce, along with the shrimp. Toss the sauce with the pasta, top with Parmesan and the lemon zest and serve.

Time: 40 minutes | Serves: 4–6

Chef Michi founded ‘Cooking Fresh For You’. Her recipes center on healthy and flavor-packed dishes. Visit www.cookingfreshforyou.com or contact via cookingfreshforyou@gmail.com, 808-286-6484. Also, visit her Cooking FRESH locations: 909 Kapahulu Ave. | Queens POB I – 1329 Lusitana St. |
Queens POB II – 550 S. Beretania St. | Lunch Truck – UH Manoa on East West Rd. by Kennedy Theatre.

A colorful summer delight. You’ll want to use a nice rigatoni (tube) or farfalle (bowtie) pasta for this recipe. The shape of the pasta is perfect with the creamy sauce and serves as the perfect backdrop for the beautiful greens and pinks of the asparagus and shrimp. 1 lb uncooked pasta 4 oz lite or…
2013 Legislature Sends Mixed Signals

As the 2013 legislative session came to a close, volunteer advocates welcomed the passage of legislation tied to AARP Hawai‘i’s long-term care priorities — but cautioned that more must be done to address a growing elder-care challenge that threatens to overwhelm individuals and families.

“AARP welcomes funding commitments for Kūpuna Care and Aging and Disability Resource Centers,” said AARP Hawai‘i State President Gerry Silva. “At the same time we believe state government should be more proactive in preparing older residents and their families to cope with the rising cost of care eldercare, which threatens their retirement security.”

Funds were provided for one of the Commission’s recommendations — an actuarial and feasibility study of a mandatory public insurance program for Hawai‘i’s working population. But another critical component — the need for public education to help residents understand the risks associated with long-term care — went unfunded.

“Education is time-sensitive. Planning takes time and time is running out for many who will soon need care,” Silva said. “Unless we provide Hawai‘i residents with basic information about long-term care, including the different types of care services available, how much they cost, and the risk of needing some form of care in the future, many older residents and their families are in for a rude awakening as they realize how limited their options are.”

The Long-Term Care Commission was established by the Legislature in 2008 (Act 224) to conduct a comprehensive assessment of Hawai‘i’s long-term care system and recommend changes. Its report identified a convergence of forces that spell trouble for Hawai‘i’s future if not acted upon, including 1) a rapidly aging population, 2) a lack of public funding to support the medical needs of its seniors, and 3) a population that isn’t planning and is largely unprepared to pay for its own care.

Many studies support the Commission’s assessment that eldercare is beyond the reach of most Hawai‘i residents. In a 2012 AARP survey of Hawai‘i residents age 50+ nearly two-thirds (64 percent) said they are not confident they can afford to pay for even one year in a nursing home. A separate national survey last year pegged the annual cost of one year in a private nursing home in Hawai‘i at $125,000.

“We’re asking the state to sound the alarm — just as it does in the face of natural disasters such as hurricanes and tsunamis,” Silva said. “Sound the alarm for the ‘silver tsunami’ so that people can prepare for what may be a devastating blow for our elders and their families.”

For an overview of AARP’s priority outcomes for the 2013 session, go online to http://states.aarp.org/legislature-funds-long-term-care-priorities-selectively/.

Contact AARP Hawai‘i for more information:
State Office: 808-545-6024 | Toll-Free: 866-295-7282
hiaarp@aarp.org | www.aarp.org/states/hi

As the 2013 legislative session came to a close, volunteer advocates welcomed the passage of legislation tied to AARP Hawai‘i’s long-term care priorities — but cautioned that more must be done to address a growing elder-care challenge that threatens to overwhelm individuals and families. “AARP welcomes funding commitments for Kūpuna Care and Aging and Disability Resource Centers,”…
Feeling Right at Home . . . in Vegas

If you thought it was just the low prices that enticed thousands of Hawaii’s seniors to book their Vegas trips through Vacations Hawai‘i, take a closer look. Vacations Hawai‘i offers 4 flight patterns per week on non-stop flights between Honolulu & Vegas, on comfortable wide body 767 aircraft. It’s the most comfortable aircraft to fly across the Pacific. With a 2-3-2 seat configuration and twin aisles, you’re never more than a seat away from an aisle. A Vacations Hawaii escort travels with each flight to ease the normal challenges that come with traveling. It’s not uncommon for us to transport a fair number of customers who require wheelchairs and with the assistance of porters, we provide a seamless transition for them from the aircraft, through the airport and on to our buses. Should you need assistance during your stay at our 3 popular downtown properties, the California, Fremont and Main Street Station Hotels, Vacations Hawaii’s staff is just a phone call away. And of course the biggest reason customers keep coming back, is the great time they have in Vegas with old and new friends!

The California Hotel and Casino, better known as “The Cal,” will make you feel right at home from the moment you step inside the door. With its inviting tropical island decor, you’ll feel like you’re in paradise. Genuine Aloha Spirit is what you’d expect to find at the Cal, and that is why it is affectingly known as the 9th island.

When you arrive at the Cal we invite you to get your game on. There are plenty of ways to play — live-action gaming, more than 1,000 video poker and reel machines, and even a satellite-fed Sports Book, at the Cal, you’re bound to hit it big! Whether you’re a serious gambler or playing your first slot machine or table game, our friendly staff will make you feel at ease.

The California Hotel and Casino also offers a variety of shopping choices for you. We have several specialty shops which are located on-site. The Bridge Avenue retail area offers a bit of the islands, some special treats and convenient gift shops.

From the Cal Club to the Redwood Bar & Grill, the Cal offers some very unique choices for every appetite with our distinct dining venues!

Within minutes of the Fremont Street Experience, you can enjoy live nightly entertainment, an exciting light show, and if you’re feeling really adventuresome you can enjoy a thrill of an amazing zipline.

VACATIONS HAWAI‘I
Oahu: 808-591-4777 | Neighbor Isles: 800-548-8951
www.boydvacationshawaii.com

Vanessa May, Vacations Hawai‘i Marketing Manager
California, Fremont, & Main Street Station
Direct: 702-386-4419 | Cell: 702-249-7494
Fax: 702-386-4463

If you thought it was just the low prices that enticed thousands of Hawaii’s seniors to book their Vegas trips through Vacations Hawai‘i, take a closer look. Vacations Hawai‘i offers 4 flight patterns per week on non-stop flights between Honolulu & Vegas, on comfortable wide body 767 aircraft. It’s the most comfortable aircraft to fly…
Who Are You Calling a Senior?

Movie night and what to see? Standing in line, I looked up to see what was playing. Getting up to the booth to pay for my ticket, the young man asked me, “What movie Sir?” I replied, “Life of Pi” please, I’ve enjoyed pie for years and I’m so happy they finally made a movie about it”. The cashier looked at me strangely and said “Ok Sir that will be $7.50 please”. I said, “Wow, $7.50! Must be some kind of a special today?” The kid looked up and said, “Well Sir, seniors are $7.50. Regular Adults are $10.00. You’re considered a Senior Adult so you get to save $2.50 on your ticket”.

“What! I’m not ready to be called a senior! I’ll pay for 1 Adult ticket please!”

And this happened to me when I was only 49! Damn! Maybe I saved $2.50 but I lost years of dignity in that one quick transaction.

So what happened, where did the time go for God sakes? Just an hour and a half ago it was 1965 and graduation day at Kaimuki! Now I stand and look back and say what the hell happened! Close to 50 years have passed and now it’s the beginning of the 4th quarter. They call it the Wonder Years, yeah, ok. You wonder what the hell happened to the time.

We are called the Baby-boomers, born between 1946 and 1964, and we were conceived from the Greatest Generation! Our Moms and Dads lived through WWII and when they came home they made babies, a lot of them. Baby Boomers — we are the generation that tested the Government, witnessed the assassinations of our leaders, and we invented Love, Sex and Rock-n-Roll. We fought in nasty wars, came home to work and became doctors, lawyers, teachers, bankers and Radio Personalities! We dedicated ourselves to our jobs and families and then had mid-life crisis and went in search for the meaning of life. We were and still are a fiercely independent bunch of World War ll babies and we continue to make a difference. We are probably the last generation who had a thriving middle class and probably will be the last generation to collect Social Security and Medicare as we know it.

So the question is, have you been playing your fiddle or storing your nuts or playing your fiddle AND storing your nuts. If the latter, good going! Preparing for the fourth quarter is tricky. I’m not a financial adviser but it’s good to have a few bucks around to help your co-pay as you go along. But the most important part of the fourth quarter is your sense of humor and balance. It truly comes down to Mind, Body, Soul and laughter. This is way more important than any bank roll you might have, because if you don’t have balance and laughter then you have nothing.

And now it’s Generation X and Generation Y who have to start to pay their own way and they need to drop the word Entitlement! They need to get off their okole’s and get to work. Baby Boomers are not afraid of confrontation and will not hesitate to challenge the establishment. The funny thing is, WE are the Establishment now!

Join in a conversation with Frank B. Shaner on facebook and experience his art online at www.frankbshaner.com.

Movie night and what to see? Standing in line, I looked up to see what was playing. Getting up to the booth to pay for my ticket, the young man asked me, “What movie Sir?” I replied, “Life of Pi” please, I’ve enjoyed pie for years and I’m so happy they finally made a movie…