Nancy’s Bulletin Board has been here since March of 2020 to connect us in real time with updates on events, activities, community resources and your feedback. At the bottom of the page please leave a positive comment, story, joke, pun, riddle or community news to post on this board. Resident art and photography would post on this website’s “Show and Tell” board. Or, you can email me your contribution at general_activity@otowfl.com and please note whether you want it published or not.
To make a reservation on the calendar, register for a Master the Possibilities (MTP) class or make an appointment to meet, please email me at general_activity@otowfl.com or give me a call at 727-799-2734. If you are a new resident and have questions, do not hesitate to call or email me and we can also set an appointment to meet.
Some activities have resumed under restrictions and a calendar is now included in the On Top of the World newspaper. For the most up to date and accurate activity information visit OTOW TV Channel 732.
May 17, 2021 Notice to Residents
Exciting news! Beginning May 17, 2021, SCA outdoor amenities including the Pavilion, tennis/pickleball, shuffleboard, lawn bowls and pool restrictions are being relaxed and operations are returning to normal.
New protocols include:
- The East and West Activity Center pools will return to a normal operation and capacity restrictions will be relaxed.
- Guests will be permitted.
- Masks and social distancing are recommended.
- Outdoor amenities including tennis/pickleball, shuffleboard, lawn bowls, and the Pavilion park will return to normal operations.
- Guests will be permitted.
- Masks and social distancing are recommended.
- Shuttle bus will be open to 50% capacity allowing now for (6) six riders.
- No Guests are permitted to utilize the shuttle bus.
- Masks are required.
Remaining protocols include:
- Inside the Activity Centers, all capacity restrictions as well as restrictions for wearing a mask and social distancing will remain in place, no guests permitted to use the activity centers at this time.
- Disruptions or noncompliance with rules is not permitted.
- Management reserves the right to ask any resident to leave the facility.
- Abusive or threatening language directed at employees may result in suspension or revocation of your facility use privileges.
- Please, practice patience.
By using the facilities, residents assume responsibility for their own personal safety and for compliance with safety protocols.
It is recommended that you bring your own hand sanitizer.
It is recommended that you disinfect high touch surfaces you may come into contact with, for example: pool chairs, sinks, showers, and door handles both before and after use. SCA staff will continue to disinfect meeting rooms, showers and restrooms and all fitness equipment.
Management will continue to closely monitor COVID numbers for this area and will take action to reverse course on facility access should we see a steady rise in positive COVID cases.
Thank you for your cooperation. Have fun and stay safe!
One Blood
The Big Red Bus will be at the East Activity Center North Parking Lot on Thursday, August 12th from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
To set an appointment to donate blood on that date, here is your link:
Blood donors will receive a $10.00 Egift card, an awesome beach towel, and save patients in need!!
10 or more HEREOS is the hospital need! I hope On Top of the World can meet and even surpass that goal.
Is it for Money, or Your Life? (contributed on 7/8/21)
By Jan Larraine Cox
(note: Jan is a resident of On Top of the World and writes for “Lifestyles After 50″ magazine. She recently received an award for Profile from NAMPA (North America Mature Publishers Association)
What is the purpose of your paid employment: are you earning money to purchase necessities such as food, shelter and clothing?
Or are your earnings more for amenities to make your life more comfortable or luxurious?
Some are attracted to intellectual stimulation or the entertainment of working in contact with fun, interesting people. Others are in their jobs specifically to acquire new skills for personal growth, perhaps as a way to make a contribution to others, and to be a transforming agent in the world.
Maybe you are more concerned about earning for others’ benefit through service or philanthropy?
But how are you utilizing your endeavors to enhance your own health and well being?
Best Selling Author Vicki Robin challenges her readers to “use their wits more than their wallets to meet their needs” since money is simply something we “trade our life energy for”. She says we then can “regain quality, values and self-worth as our bottom line”.
In other words, she says by separating work and wages we can actually bring together the different parts of ourselves and reclaim balance and sanity, by living our values as best we can. We get our life back.
In her book “Your Money or Your Life”, Robin details ways in which many Americans honor consumption as a “nationally sanctioned addiction”. For example, the overwhelming majority of mall shoppers do not go in search of a specific item. They are instead searching out their favorite high: consumption of things they don’t need or want!
Robin details a number of ways to reclaim sanity, which seem so logical that maybe many Americans are already practicing them.
First of all, live within your means. This way you avoid interest charges by avoiding overuse of credit cards. If you wait until you actually have the money to purchase an item, you may discover you don’t actually want it after all!
It also may be that you can take care of what you already have, maintaining everything from cars to hairdryers. Frugality experts from the 1930’s kept a pile of wood scraps and assorted junk on hand for just such needs. Learn how to do it yourself (DIY)!
Learn basic automotive maintenance; don’t assume you can’t learn it. Enroll in a basic automotive adult education class or ask a friend to teach you!
Alternately, shop around and identify a reliable and reasonable mechanic—before you need one.
Consider starting a neighborhood tool and skill swap!
Comparison shop by phone to find the best price for the same item. Once you decide on the model you want, call all dealers within a 100 mile radius for the best price. Offer to pay by cash if you can and then ask for their best price, lower than the list price. Nothing to lose by negotiating! You could also be lucky enough to close a deal on an excellent slightly used item or floor model.
Speaking of maintenance, maintain your body! Do not smoke of course. Be sure to eat a proper diet, get enough rest and exercise (aerobic, strength-building and stretching) and maintain your recommended weight for your body type.
Transform your relationship with money, reduce stress, and maintain a healthy outlook!
SHINE Virtual Outreach EVENTS
August 2021
SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) is a Free program offered by the Florida Department of Elder Affairs and the Area Agency on Aging of Pasco & Pinellas. Specially trained volunteers can assist you with your Medicare, Medicaid, and Health insurance questions by providing one-on-one counseling and information. SHINE services are free, unbiased, and confidential. Shine Counselors can be reached by calling 1-800-963-5337 or 727-217-8111.
- Medicare Basics with SHINE Zoom meeting Wednesday August 11th, 2021 at 10:00 am
(Provides an overview of the different Parts of Medicare including Parts A, B, C, D, Medigap and available financial assistance)
When: Aug 11, 2021 10:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Register in advance for this meeting:
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
- Medicare Part C Advantage Plans Zoom meeting with SHINE Wednesday August 11th, 2021, at 12:00 pm
(Provides an overview of Medicare Advantage Plan options available in Florida).
When: Aug 11, 2021 12:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Register in advance for this meeting:
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
- Medicare Financial Assistance with SHINE via Zoom Tuesday August 17th, 2021, at 12:00 pm
(Designed to provide an overview of Medicare options and how SHINE can help)
When: Aug 17, 2021 12:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Register in advance for this meeting:
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
- Medicare Part C Advantage Plans Zoom meeting with SHINE Wednesday August 18th 2021 at 10:00 am
(Provides an overview of Medicare Advantage Plan options available in Florida)
When: Aug 18, 2021 10:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Register in advance for this meeting:
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
- Medicare Part D Drug Plan Zoom meeting with SHINE Wednesday August 18th, 2021, at 12:00 noon
(Provides an overview of Part D Drug plan options available in Florida).
When: Aug 18, 2021 12:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Register in advance for this meeting:
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
- Saturday Morning Medicare Basics with SHINE via Zoom Saturday August 21st, 2021, at 10:00 am
(Designed to provide an overview of Medicare options and how SHINE can help)
- Medicare Fraud Presentation with SHINE via Zoom Tuesday August 24th, 2021, at 12:00 pm
(Learn how to Detect, Protect, and Report Medicare fraud, waste, and abuse
When: Aug 24, 2021 12:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Register in advance for this meeting:
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
- Medicare Part C Advantage Plans Zoom meeting with SHINE Wednesday August 25th, 2021 at 10:00 am
(Provides an overview of Medicare Advantage Plan options available in Florida)
When: Aug 25, 2021 10:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Register in advance for this meeting:
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
- Medicare Basics with SHINE via Zoom Wednesday August 25th, 2021 at 12:00 pm
(Designed to provide an overview of Medicare options and how SHINE can help)
When: Aug 25, 2021 12:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Register in advance for this meeting:
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
- Medicare Basics with SHINE Zoom meeting Tuesday August 31st, 2021 at 12:00 pm
(Provides an overview of the different Parts of Medicare including Parts A, B, C, D, Medigap and available financial assistance)
When: Aug 31, 2021 12:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Register in advance for this meeting:
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
SHINE YouTube Videos to be viewed at any time
- Shine Program Overview
Direct link to the SHINE Program Overview Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hQ7JckySK3c
- What is SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) en Español
Direct link to the What is SHINE Video in Spanish (Español):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mAI4_RvnSNw&t=11s
- Medicare Long-Term Care with SHINE
Direct link to the Long-Term Care with SHINE Video:
(This presentation gives an overview of some of the issues regarding Long-Term Care Planning in Florida.)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KrNUIHFt-Sw
LOOKING FOR A VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY?
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
HURRICANE TIPS
- Purchase a battery-operated radio and a supply of batteries.
- Purchase flashlights with batteries. Use caution when using candles.
- Get an ice chest. Stock up on a week’s worth of water, food that won’t spoil, pet supplies, toilet paper, purchase a battery-operated fan.
- Refill medical prescriptions.
- Go to an ATM or bank and get cash.
- Fill your vehicle with gas. Fill a lawn mower container with gas.
- Do you need a generator? Never operate a generator indoors.
- Recharge cell phone batteries and use only when necessary.
- If you are evacuating, tell people where you are evacuating to and leave you contact information.
- Bring lawn furniture and outdoor decorations indoors.
- Sign up for the RAVE alert system from OTOW.
- Community updates will be posted on otowclearwaterinfo.com,
OTOW-TV Channel 732 and the Box Office (otowboxoffice.com).
- Make sure you have a first-aid kit, including bandages, ointments.
- Make sure important documents are safely stored.
- Don’t forget rain gear, blankets and home entertainment.
Don’t panic, but you may not have internet service for days.
WHEN A STORM HAS PASSED
- Do not go outside and begin cleanup on your own. Let OTOW
employees remove limbs and all damage. There could be wires down.
- Traffic lights may be out. Stop at all intersections.
VACCINATIONS FOR HOMEBOUND
Florida seniors who cannot leave their homes but in need of a COVID-19 vaccine have a new way to sign up for an appointment. Email HomeboundVaccine@em.myflorida.com with your name and phone number and someone will get back to you about setting up an appointment, according to the Florida Division of Emergency Management, which is tasked with the state’s vaccine distribution.
You can also call 866-779-6121 to schedule an appointment.
VACCINATIONS FOR 50 AND OLDER AT PUBLIC SITES AND PHARMACIES IN PINELLAS COUNTY
Starting Monday, residents 50 and older can sign up for COVID-19 vaccine appointments at public sites and pharmacies in Pinellas County.
The governor expanded eligibility to those over 50 statewide starting March 22, which will make the vaccine available to about 150,000 more Pinellas residents between the ages of 50-59, based on the latest Census Bureau population data.
This new group can create an account now at www.PatientPortalFL.com or by calling 844-770-8548, and can then check for available appointments starting next week. The website and phone number are available 24/7.
Publix, CVS, Winn Dixie, Walmart, and Sam’s Club pharmacies are also offering vaccines to the eligible groups, in addition to K-12 teachers of any age as directed by the Federal Retail Pharmacy Partnership. Residents can check each of the pharmacy chain websites for more information. K-12 teachers under 50 can also receive their vaccine at the federally-supported, state-run site at the Tampa Greyhound Track.
The Florida Department of Emergency Management is also running a walk-up vaccination site at The Centre at Palm Harbor (1500 16th St, Palm Harbor, FL 34683) from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. until at least March 27. Public sites operated by the Florida Department of Health in Pinellas and Pinellas County Government are adding new first dose appointments each week at three sites as additional shipments are received from the state.
The following groups may also continue to schedule appointments through the Patient Portal:
- Health care personnel who have direct contract with the public of any age
- Medically vulnerable individuals with a physician-completed form available at https://link.zixcentral.com/u/d0c8f314/Eh053uOI6xGG-qpkg-oQLQ?u=http%3A%2F%2Fww11.doh.state.fl.us%2Fcomm%2F_partners%2Fcovid19_report_archive%2Fcovid-physician-form%2FEO-21-47-Form.pdf
Identification and proof of eligibility required at all appointments.
Residents needing transportation to a vaccine site have options available in Pinellas County:
- PSTA currently offers FREE bus service to several drop-off locations near vaccine sites within Pinellas County. Check out https://link.zixcentral.com/u/cf74f8c9/NFU53uOI6xGG-qpkg-oQLQ?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.psta.net%2Friding-psta%2Fpsta-coronavirus-response%2F for a route convenient to you. PSTA buses are limited to 15 passengers plus two mobility device passengers to allow for social distancing. Masks are required for all PSTA riders.
- Neighborly offers free rides to adults 60 and over for medical appointments including vaccines. Visit https://link.zixcentral.com/u/48456aca/boQ53uOI6xGG-qpkg-oQLQ?u=https%3A%2F%2Fneighborly.org%2Ftransportation to register. The medical appointment must be within 10 miles of your home, and you must book a ride at least two days in advance of the appointment. Anyone needing wheelchair assistance must book at least a week in advance. Rides are available from 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. For more information visit https://link.zixcentral.com/u/c668d91c/aLI53uOI6xGG-qpkg-oQLQ?u=https%3A%2F%2Fneighborly.org or call (727) 573-9444.
- The Area Agency on Aging helps Pinellas seniors find free or low-cost local transportation via their Helpline at 1-800-963-5337.
- Residents with Medicaid can get a free ride to and from vaccine appointm333ents. Once the shot is scheduled, residents are asked to call their health plan provider to get the name and phone number for the transportation service. If not in a health plan, residents can call the Medicaid help line at 1-877-254-1055 to be connected with a transportation service. Residents should schedule their ride at least three business days before your appointment, and be prepared to provide the following information: full name; Medicaid identification number; addresses of pickup and drop off locations; date of birth; name of health plan (if enrolled in one); date and time of the appointment; and a phone number. They may have someone accompany them if it is medically necessary. Be sure to call the transportation service if an appointment is canceled or rescheduled.
To date, more than 220,000 people have received one or both doses of the vaccine in Pinellas County. For the latest information on vaccine availability countywide, visit https://link.zixcentral.com/u/fc124260/tuY53uOI6xGG-qpkg-oQLQ?u=https%3A%2F%2Fcovid19.pinellascounty.org%2Fvaccines.
CDC GUIDELINE (update: 3-17-21)
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
The CDC recommends that fully vaccinated people continue to take these COVID-19 precautions when in public, when visiting with unvaccinated people from multiple other households, and when around unvaccinated people who are at high risk of getting severely ill from COVID-19:
- Wear a well-fitted mask.
- Stay at least 6 feet from people you do not live with.
- Avoid medium- and large-sized in-person gatherings.
- Get tested if experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.
Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority – Link to Current Schedule and Fares
Traveling in Pinellas County has gotten easier with PSTA’s (Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority) bus and mobility programs. As always, we recommend that you plan your trip before you go out. You can do so by calling our information line (727 540-1900) or by planning your trip through google maps.
Use bus route 62 or 76 to go to Countryside Mall, Tyrone Mall, Shoppes at Boot Ranch, Downtown Clearwater, and one transfer away from the Beach Trolley. Currently we ask that all riders board through the back of the bus and wear their mask properly throughout the entire trip. The bus service is currently free, but we will resume charging bus fares July 5th.
Current bus fares:
If the bus stop is not near your home, you can use our Direct Connect program that offers you a $5 discount to travel to or from a Direct Connect location (see picture for nearest Direct Connect location). Use UBER, Lyft, or United Taxi to get to a Direct Connect location and then transfer to a bus to get to your destination.
Program Service Hours: 5:00a.m. until midnight – 7 days a week from
Link to program: https://link.zixcentral.com/u/1adca276/KA-QwOW06xGtEGLdYFsSiw?u=https%3A%2F%2Fpsta.net%2Friding-psta%2Fdirect-connect%2F
NOTICE TO OTOW CLUB AND ACTIVITY REPRESENTATIVES
I miss seeing all of our club and activity reps on a day-to-day basis and eager for the day when we are all together again.
Even though many club events and activities are still on hold, your Annual Club forms are due. This packet includes important requirements and information for maintaining a successful club, 10 questions to answer, a request for updated information such as copies of your board’s activity cards, club member roster and an agreement to be signed, that’s it folks! Please contact me with any questions.
FLORIDA VETERANS SUPPORT LINE
Talk with someone who’s been there.
If you or your loved one needs support or connections to community resources, call the Florida Veterans Support Line at 1-844-MyFLVet (693-5838) and talk to a trained specialist. Many of them are fellow veterans. Available 24/7 every day, all conversations are confidential and judgement-free.
All calls are:
Confidential
Available 24/7 every day
https://www.myflvet.com/