Articles, activities for boomers & seniors
Q&A with Art Villafane, Editor of Lifestyles over 50
What is the appeal of the magazine?
We strive to deliver information of value to our readers. It generally covers health, lifestyle and finance. Combine that with trivia, humor and puzzles and you get a magazine that appeals to a broad spectrum of people.
How do you “make” the magazine?
Every month we research what information will be of interest to our readers. We gather research info and photos and then write the articles. We also get articles from area experts. Once all material is done Jeff Tintle, the publisher, and I will work the layout of the issue. Once all layout is done we review and edit the copy and then send the issue electronically to our printer. While it might sound like a simple process there is a significant amount of effort in putting each issue together
How do you stay young?
My unusual answer is - laughing. I am fortunate in having a cluster of friends who, when we get together, have great fun and spend a lot of time laughing - that keeps me going. I also practice Aikido - the martial art. It helps to keep me fit.
What do you do in your free time?
I love to ride motorcycle. My wife and I will jump on the bike and just take off. Sometimes it is just us, sometimes we go with other enthusiasts. It is the best therapy and a great way to spend time together.
Who’s your inspiration?
Mahatma Gandhi. He showed that non-violence and the will to overcome obstacles is the ultimate life path.
What do you want your legacy to be?
Ethical behavior - I would like to leave a record of honest and ethical behavior in my business and personal life. Have I been perfect? Far from it, but I have come to learn the value and importance of ethical behavior.
What is Important to You?
Helping others. I am a Vietnam veteran and I would like to see help for not just the visible veteran, but also the “invisible” vet - those who have fallen through the cracks and are not getting the help offered by the government.
What’s your favorite book and why?
Dostoyevsky’s Crime and Punishment. I read it when I was young and again later in life. It showed me how the written word can spike one’s imagination and strongly affect emotions.
What might one not know about you?
I am a personal historian. I interview people about their lives and record it on DVD or in audio format. It helps people create a legacy that they can leave for their family and future generations. Helping individuals relive their pasts is extremely satisfying work.
What Success Means to Me
Waking up in the morning and being excited about the rest of the day.