Autumn Travel Edition SPECIAL PULLOUT SECTION INSIDE!
OCTOBER 2015 FREE EDITION www.activelifestylesmag.com
W
omen Together In Song
Sweet Adelines International is a highly respected worldwide organization of women singers committed to advancing the musical art form of barbershop harmony through education, competition and performance. This independent, nonprofit music education association is one of the world’s largest singing organizations for women. Members extend over five continents and belong to more than 500 choruses and 1,200 quartets. (www.Sweetadelinesintl.org) Members in the choruses come from all walks of life, doctors, nurses, teachers, business owners, social workers, finance professionals, students, homemakers, retirees, etc. It is mistakenly thought that Sweet Adelines comprise only mature women; however, the organization encompasses women of all ages. The Young Women in Harmony program, established by Sweet Adelines International, provides female singers under the age of 25, educational tools, workshops and competition to build their vocal skills and the joy and rewards of performing and singing four-part harmony, barbershop style plus a taste of show business. (www.Facebook.com/YoungWomenInHarmony)
this is a great opportunity to “strut your stuff”. Wherever the members come from, they all agree it is a great stress reliever and lots of fun. If you are interested in more information about membership in Gateway Spotlight Chorus please visit their website at www.GatetwaySpotlightChorus.org or attend a rehearsal and check it out for yourself! Gateway Spotlight Chorus will be having their first Cabaret-Style show on November 21st at the Hope Lutheran Church, Continued on Page #2
Travel Healthy and Happy
SPECIAL AUTUMN TRAVEL SECTION Pages 9-15
by Tod DeHart
ACTIVE LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE 767 Gravois Road - Suite A Fenton (St. Louis), Missouri 63026 (314) 591-3011
A Sweet Adeline chorus is a musical asset to its community. The chorus provides entertainment to civic events and charitable functions, like The Walk to End Alzheimer’s in St. Charles, MO where Gateway Spotlight Chorus, a chapter of Sweet Adelines, pictured performing last month. Gateway Spotlight Chorus rehearses in St. Charles, MO every Tuesday at the First United Methodist Church, 801 1st Capitol Dr. from 7:00 PM to 9:45 PM. The chorus is looking for women singers of all ages, races, ethnic backgrounds and levels of singing ability to join and learn how membership in Sweet Adelines International will provide opportunity for education, performance and friendship plus develop a sense of personal pride and achievement. If you are a woman in the St. Charles/St. Louis Metro area who likes to sing or if you know of someone who does,
by Barbara Hyder
Travel is fun and exciting, but it is also a a great way to enhance your life in many ways! Travel is proven to be one of the best ways to make your life healthier, happier, stronger and more fullfilled. Actual studies have proven that travel increases well-being, learning experiences, decreased stress levels, and creates memories of a lifetime. In addition, traveling builds stronger relationships, new friendships and connects people to new ideas and cultures. Vacation and relaxation go hand in hand. When leaving home (or work) and adventuring away from “the norm”, we leave our day to day lives and responsibilities far behind. This allows our bodies to reset our biological body clock. Notably, studies have shown decreased stress levels in people who travel. Reducing the amount of stress over just one week away on a trip, travelers registered lower levels of stress hormones in their saliva. Limiting our stress,
our bodies no longer synchronize with the clock, but instead, with the sunrise and sunset. It is common knowledge that travel brings people together and builds new and everlasting relationships. Whether you travel alone, with family, or with friends, a vacation get away improves and creates relationships and friendships. In my 20 years of professionaltravel experience, I have taken joy and pleasure in seeing so many new relationships form and grow while adventuring out. One of my greatest joys is introducing single travelers to new people, which ultimately become lifelong friendships. Because of this, I decided to create a more affordable pricing package for single travelers with DIRECTIONS Tours. When traveling as a single, one must pay more money in most cases (due to not spliting hotel costs). This leads to higher single supplemental costs and deters many people from traveling alone. So... I went to work with our vendors and negotiated better... Continued on Page #9
LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT HAY RIDE, PUMPKIN PATCH OR CORN MAZE FOR THE FAMILY? SEE PAGE 3!
Active Lifestyles
Continued from cover (Together in Song)...
Publisher: DIRECTIONS Saint Louis, LLC Magazine Editor: Debra Wheeler Travel Editor: Tod D. DeHart Cuisine Editor: Anne Weibert Contributing Writers: Mark Easley Linda Emmanuel Karen Fox Scott Gardner Kevin Kohler Gloria Miller Jeff Ponte Jose Solorio Account Manager: Megan Glass Office Manager: Carrie Sieker
ACTIVE LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE
767 Gravois Road - Suite A Fenton (St. Louis), MO 63026 314-591-3011 [phone] 636-326-6036 [fax] activelifestylesmag@gmail.com [email] www.activelifestylesmag.com
JOIN US FOR OUR GRAND REMODEL REVEAL CEREMONY!
1975 S. Old Hwy 94 in St. Charles from 7-10 PM. Featured, in addition to the chorus, will be a Sweet Adeline Quartet, “Fierce”, a Magician/Comedian, Steve Barcellona and a mixed Jazz quartet, “Heart to Heart”. There will be gifts, a silent auction and 50/50 raffle. Light refreshments will be provided but feel free to bring your own. General admission tickets are $18 in advance and $20 at the door. To order tickets email gschyder@yahoo.com or call 636-379-3992.
TUESDAY, NOV. 3 7:45 AM GRAND REVEAL CEREMONY
8 AM–5 PM
DAY LONG FESTIVITIES Stop by to check-out our newly remodeled Whole Foods Market Galleria store. Enjoy a day long celebration including free samples, giveaways and more!
WHOLE FOODS MARKET GALLERIA
HAPPY FALL
Brentwood Square 1601 S Brentwood Blvd
@WFMGALLERIA
The views expressed in Active Lifestyles Magazine are those of the authors named, and are not of its employees. All materials supplied to the magazine are at the owner’s risk. While we try to ensure that the information we provide is correct, mistakes do occur and we cannot guarantee the accuracy of our material. If you do notice any mistakes then please let us know. The design of the printed newspaper and of the website are copyright of Active Lifestyles Magazine and DIRECTIONS Saint Louis, LLC. Material from the magazine may not be reproduced without prior permission. Photographic rights remain the property of the article writers or of this publication. Your privacy will be protected at all times, and addresses / email addresses supplied to us will never be shared with a third party. We do maintain the right not to publish advertisements, articles, classifieds or comments and/or to remove or edit them without notice. Active Lifestyles Magazine is a free publication/newsletter for/of DIRECTIONS Saint Louis, LLC, its clients and is also distributed throughout Metro St. Louis for readership. © Copyright 2015. Active Lifestyles Magazine published by Directions Saint Louis, LLC, St. Louis, MO All Rights Reserved.
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Connecting All Of Metro St. Louis!
autumn Aholt Farms
The largest corn maze in the St. Louis area. Whether you’re looking to set up a class field trip or a family outing, this is the place to be for outdoor fall fun!
Seasons of Fun Augusta, MO
•Farm Animals •Campfires •Corn Box •Cow Train •Mini Mazes •Hay Jump •Zip Line •Hayrides •Pumpkins •Haunted Maze •Pony Rides* •Playground •Draft Horse Exhibit •Pumpkin Slingshot* •NEW! Pick Your Own Pumpkin Patch* •New this year: KnockerBalls and 26’ Slide
(Now thru November 1) Weekends 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Weekdays 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
• Pumpkins • Gourds • Mums • Craft Barn • Apple Butter • Farm Animals • Straw & Corn Stalks
*extra charge than admission
Barrel & Hay Rides Straw Slide & Tunnel Haunted House Corn Maze Pedal Tractors/Cars Face Painting Corn Cannon Petting Zoo Agri-Land and Refreshments!
HOURS: Now thru Nov. 1 Thursday - Sunday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Closed Sep. 19 and Sep. 27 for private events Feeling Brave? Try our Haunted Corn Maze... call for times!
LOCATED IN EUREKA!
6133 Augusta Bottom Road
www.eurekacornmaze.com (636) 938-1005
(From Hwy. 94, take Jackson Street through Augusta. Turn right on High Street. Go Past Mt. Pleasant Winery 1.8 miles to Aholt Farms on right)
$1a pumpkin OFF
(636) 228-4896
BOOK YOUR PRIVATE EVENTS AND EVENING HAYRIDES!
with this coupon - one per person
SimplyAtA-Maizin’ Dickherber Farms BRING THE ENTIRE FAMILY FOR A DAY OF FARM FUN!
Hay Rides
Petting Farm
Camp Fires
Call & Schedule Your GROUP EVENT! dickherberfarms@aol.com
7063 Highway N • Dardenne Prairie
Kids Fort
Sun. 11a.m. to Dusk Mon. - Sat. 9a.m. to Dusk
636-474-1147
SEASONAL DELIGHTS by Gloria Miller
In honor of fall, I’m writing about pumpkin! The holidays are right around the corner, and hopefully we’ve all been active, staying healthy and eating wisely. In order to stay healthy during the holidays, I’d like to suggest some pumpkin recipes you might give a try and hopefully, really like! Most likely you have a busy schedule, like me. I work outside the home full time and on weekends, I catch up on my household chores, so my time is precious and limited. But I do have to cook, and therefore, I want to be called the “Cheating Chef” because I use canned pumpkin in these recipes. My first recipe requires a box of spice cake mix and a can of pumpkin. Be sure it’s not pumpkin
pie filling, though. Mix the two together with electric beaters until the ingredients are completely mixed together. The batter will be thick. Then fill lined muffin tins about 2/3 full and bake at 350 for 18-20 minutes. If you prefer, you can spoon drop the batter on a greased cookie sheet (same temp and cook time). Since you’re not adding any eggs or oil, the calories in the mix per serving is 160 and the pumpkin is only 50 calories for a half cup! I say this is a good choice for a sweet treat! How about a pumpkin smoothie for a refreshing pick me up? For a pumpkin pie smoothie you’ll need ½ a banana, 1/3 cup pumpkin puree, 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt, ¾ cup of vanilla almond or soy milk. Then add *pumpkin pie spice, but you only need a little shake. Mix it all in a blender or food processor with some ice cubes and enjoy! Last but not least, pumpkin dip. Yes, you read that right! 15oz can pumpkin; ¾ cup brown sugar; 1 tsp vanilla; 1/8tsp cinnamon; 1/8 tsp pumpkin pie spice; 6oz. fat free Greek yogurt; 8oz Cool Whip and cut up fruit like apples and bananas, maybe dip some vanilla wafers too! Mix the first 5 ingredients until blended well then mix in the yogurt. Fold in Cool Whip and chill until ready to use.
Pumpkin is not only delicious but it’s healthy too. Pumpkin has alpha hydroxy acids that reduce signs of aging skin. The carotenoids in pumpkin help neutralize free radicals which help reduce the risk of cancer. Lutein and zeazanthin promote eye health. For the active person who wants to stay healthy, add some pumpkin into your life, and not just in pie! *If you don’t have the spice mix, then you can make a batch and save the rest for later. It’s a mixture of 1 and ½ tsp cinnamon, 1 tsp. each of ginger, cloves, allspice and nutmeg.
Note: If you want to use a real pumpkin, you’ll have to cook it. Pumpkins are part of the squash family, so you’d cook it the same way. Cut a pumpkin in half and scoop out the fibers and seeds. Next, place the halves shell side up in a shallow baking dish in about an inch of water and cook at 350* for about 30-45 minutes depending on the size and thickness of your pumpkin. It might take longer, so test for doneness by inserting a knife; it should be tender. Let it cool. Then you can scrape the pulp from the shell and can cut it into smaller pieces. You can toss the pumpkin into a salad with some kale, add some spinach and cooked quinoa. Feta cheese, purple onion and dried cranberries will make it colorful and healthy! I’d use Italian salad dressing, but it’s your choice.
wellness
VISTORY OVER LYME by Linda Emmanuel
Lyme
disease has become a worldwide epidemic. If left untreated, Lyme disease is fatal. The following are true stories of two women who have something in common. They both had chronic Lyme infections and are now Lyme-free. The only difference-they followed different protocols. SALLY’S STORY Eight years ago, Sally was vacationing in Maine. While hiking, she was attacked by a swarm of mosquitos. Within days she began experiencing low grade fevers which lasted six weeks. Like other Lyme victims she went from doctor to doctor and her blood tests always came back “normal.” Not until four years ago did she find a doctor who diagnosed her with chronic (advanced stage) Lyme disease. For six months she received IVs of antibiotics, but this did not help. By March of 2015 she had lost 35 pounds, weighed 80 pounds, and was bedridden. Her vision was blurred. Lyme disease was adversely affecting her
heart and she had neurological problems (shaking). In April she began taking mild silver protein (MSP) and the Lyme symptoms disappeared after the second treatment. Sally has now gained eight pounds and her thyroid is now working again after 25 years. She is not out of danger yet, because Sally lives 7,000 feet above sea level. Living in this high of an elevation, mycoplasma infections are very difficult to get rid of. (Mycoplasmas are anaerobic and thrive in high altitude.) As of this writing, she is still taking mild silver protein to kill mycoplasma.
It can be administered by IV (most effective), mouth (absorbed through membranes) or by a retention enema.
BLOODROOT Bloodroot (high in nitrogen) kills bacteria. It has been effective against (stage four) cancer and disease, because cancer and disease are infections (most commonly bacterial). For information about purchasing bloodroot or MSP, contact me.
TRICIA’S STORY Tricia’s story is similar to Sally’s. She, too, went from doctor to doctor until she was finally diagnosed with Lyme. (She was also suffering from a mycoplasma infection.) In April, she tried both MSP and bloodroot but decided to go with the bloodroot. By the end of three months, both the Lyme and mycoplasma symptoms had disappeared. Fortunately Tricia lives in the Los Angeles area which is at sea level. Tricia states, “I am now healthy and feel better than I have ever felt before.”
About the Author In 2001, Linda was disabled with lupus, Crohn’s, fibromyalgia, RA, and chronic depression. In 2003 she found out about mycoplasma and in 2005 she found an effective treatment. After just two treatments, she was no longer sick. This treatment also kills staph, the Lyme spirochaete, and other diseasecausing organisms. For more information about mycoplasma and treatment: Contact Linda at:
(314) 502-0227 www.lindaemmanuel.com lindajemmanuel@charter.net
MILD SILVER PROTEIN MSP is “legal” and is registered under Argyrol with the FDA. MSP is nano-sized particles of silver suspended in a molecular protein matrix. Upon contact, it kills both bacteria and viruses.
Disclaimer: Linda is not a medical doctor nor can she give medical advice. The information in this article is for educational purposes only. Paid Advertisement
Next month: Mycoplasma and Heart Disease
Rates include lodging, meals and activities.
WOMEN’S OUTDOOR WELLNESS AT YMCA TROUT LODGE OCTOBER 16 - 18
Only 90 minutes south of St. Louis, YMCA Trout Lodge is hosting it’s annual fall Women’s Outdoor Wellness Weekend. Ages 18 and up. YOU choose the classes/activities you want to participate in, and there are evening group activities as well. Spend the weekend with your friends and family as girl power takes over the lodge. You do so much for everyone else - now it’s your turn to do something great for yourself.
HAPPY FALL
Alpine Tower • Ecology • Archery • Belly Dancing • Canoeing • Ceramics • Dutch Oven Cooking • Fishing • Glass Etching • Kayaking • Knitting • Moonlight Swing • Moonlight Zip • Mud Cave • Paintball Nature Center • Riflery • Shotgun • Zip Line • Survival Hike • Trail Ride Zumba and many more from which to choose! Go to troutlodge.org and click on Play/Events Calendar and search “Women’s Program” under Event Category for more information.
888-FUN-YMCA
www.troutlodge.org
Find us online!
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Live Happy - Live Healthy!
wellness
THINNING HAIR TREATMENTS AND SOLUTIONS by Scott Gardner
Has your hair gotten finer in recent years? Innovative Shampoos, Conditioners and other products can help! You would think hair care should be simple, over time, though; your hair becomes less dense. Individual strands get thinner and break more easily. Sunlight, climate, and pollution also take a toll. And typical hairstyling techniques…blow drying, coloring, and over-using gels can further damage your hair. If this is happening to you, what should you do? Sometimes the only way to repair the damaged hair is to cut the hair off and wait for healthy hair to grow back. But before you do something so drastic and if the damage hasn’t progressed too far, there are hair care products that may restore glossy, full-bodied hair. Shampoos are not what they
used to be. In the past, the cleansing agent was soap, which could dry out your scalp and leave a film that doesn’t rinse away. There are now shampoos that contain silicones that give hair a soft feel, help retain moisture, and make it easier to comb and manage. Many shampoos contain ingredients that condition the hair as well and repair damage. Hair primarily consists of a protein called keratin, which is made of 21 different amino acids. Common hair-care-practices, such as blow drying, coloring, and styling, cause a reduction in the amino acid level of hair. Both natural sunlight and ultraviolet light break down the keratin protein in hair and damage its elasticity. Hair becomes weakened and dry with excessive sun exposure…similar to the effects of bleaching though not as severe. A major development has been the application of skin care ingredients to hair care products. For instance, some of the ingredients used in anti-aging skin care products, such as collagen, peptides, and sunscreens are now found in hair care products. Many of these products penetrate the hair and help
increase its moisture. Peptides, for example, provide extra conditioning and make the hair shaft stronger by depositing a shield on the shaft. Healthy hair begins with using the right hair care products and PRO/ GEN Hair Care Products formulated in Europe and made exclusively for and available only at our Hans Wiemann salon, is the right choice to Feed, Nurture & Protect your hair! How do you stop or reverse hair loss? Men and women both experience hair loss. Men usually have to deal with it at a younger age due in large part to genetics. For women, using a prescription such as 2% Minoxidil applied to the scalp has been shown to help women experiencing early stages of hair loss. For women experiencing more severe hair loss, this can occur for a number reasons including: hormones, stress, genetics, cancer, or alopecia. The right course of action might be low level laser light therapy, scalp stimulation and a mediceutical regime to stimulate new hair growth and to repair and strengthen existing hair. In St. Louis, there is Hans Wiemann - which has been in the hair replacement business since
1957, and utilizes the very latest cutting-edge technology to help people solve their hair problems. Awarded the Mediceuticals Dermatological Scalp Hair & Skin Solutions Facility of the Year award for the past three years, Hans Wiemann offers a 3-step program that includes Scalp Stimulation, Alpha Laser Treatments, and Pharmaceutical Grade Products that works great for both men and women who want to reverse thinning hair, and to grow and strengthen new and existing hair. Hans Wiemann also offers the latest in hair transplantation procedures with the ARTAS Robotic Hair Transplant, this stateof-the-art process is the world’s only FDA approved method and is only available at Hans Wiemann within a 750 mile radius. Call Hans Wiemann today for your Free Hair & Scalp Analysis and find out what program works best for you! (314) 721-6557 or go to hanshairloss.com for more information or to book!
THE “IT WORKS” REVOLUTION by Jose Solorio
Chances are, if you have a social media account, you may have already seen pictures going around of people posting pictures about their belly, their skin, their hair, etc. all claiming that if you take It Works products your life will be changed. Now before jumping into any conclusions let me give you a thought: Everybody knows that fruits and veggies are good for your body and that one apple a day keeps the doctor away right? Now, you might be like my brother in law who never eats vegetables and only eats meat. Suddenly you start feeling guilty knowing that you could easily get cancer without eating vegetables and many other diseases related to poor nutrition, so you decide to start eating your 8 daily servings of fruits and veggies for one week. After a week you realize you don’t feel or look much different and may even feel like the whole world and your mom cheated on you when they told you eating vegetables was important. But on a daily basis that’s how we tend to act. Why take vitamins, why eat vegetables, why exercise if I feel ok? The big answer is: preventative health. There’s enough scientific evidence out there about the benefits of eating fruits and veggies and plenty to support those statements. However, many people unfortunately wait until it is too late to change their lifestyle. Once their liver is failing they realize maybe they shouldn’t have ate so much fried stuff during their life, once they are diabetic they realize they shouldn’t have drank so much soda, once they get cancer they realize they
shouldn’t have ate so unhealthy and have such an acidic PH in their body from eating very few vegetables. To make things worst we live in a society where pharmaceutical companies love making billions of dollars out of our mistakes. They spend millions sending representatives to visit doctors all around the country to offer them incentives to promote their products. I even laugh when I see pharmaceutical commercials because drugs that cure one disease often have dozens of side effects. So at the end of the day you take one medicine which probably down the road is going to make you have to take another medicine, to which probably it will have another side effect for which you will need another medicine to cure it.! The result may be like my grandma, before long you are going to have to take 18 different pills on a daily basis with your health not improving at all! She eats about the same amount of pills that she does eat food during breakfast. Not that long ago, I was doing some research on the internet, when I found a graphic showing that 14 different common health problems have been linked to having a very acidic PH level in your body. Health issues like headaches, sleepiness, confusion, loss of consciousness, coma, seizures, weakness, diarrhea, shortness of breath, coughing, arrhythmia, increased heart rate, nausea, vomiting, etc. In 1931, Dr. Otto Warburg won the Nobel Prize for proving that cancer couldn’t survive in an alkaline, oxygen right environment but that cancer is a result
5 ∙ ACTIVE LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE ∙ OCTOBER 2015 ∙ www.activelifestylesmag.com
of an acidic, low oxygen environment. So what you eat and the PH level of your body is definitely an important thing to take care of. If you go to a doctor, he most likely will prescribe a medicine for your headache, for your heart, for your sleeping problem, etc. But very rarely a doctor will tell you to switch your eating habits for three months and see whether that takes care of your condition. It Works is revolutionizing the health care industry because it is using plant based products to naturally help prevent diseases in your body. It shows people how to better take care of their bodies. It also carries an amazing product called Greens on the Go. These little packets, which dissolve in either a bottle of water or juice, have the nutrients of 8 servings of fruits and veggies. They contain bio enzymes, probiotic support and alkalizing minerals like magnesium and potassium. This product alone, with a daily use, will help gradually alkalize your body and that, in turn, can help prevent many diseases. People that have used them have seen many of their health problems mentioned above, disappear! But it takes time and discipline, health problems don’t appear overnight and they also don’t leave overnight. It Works uses bioavailable ingredients from natural sources and not from chemistry. This way your body absorbs a bigger portion of the nutrients because it recognizes them the same way as if you were eating a carrot. But also make no mistake, bioavailable nutrients and over the
counter synthetic vitamins are very different. Your body can absorb as much as 85% of a bioavailable nutrient and as little as 10% of a synthetic vitamin. Pay close attention to this as the daily values mean nothing if you are not absorbing it into your body. Last but not least, It Works has a patented product called the Ultimate Body Applicator. This product tightens, tones and firms the skin. People who have used them claim to have lost inches off their belly, have a much nicer feel and their skin also benefits. Many have got rid of cellulite, varicose veins, scars and stretch marks. This product is considered the closest thing to a cosmetic surgery but at a fraction of the cost and without pain and surgery. It Works carries more than 32 products which offer a natural solution for many aspects of your lifestyle. Don’t wait until it’s too late. By investing less than just $2.00 daily you can get enough products to make you feel and look better! If you want to learn more call me at 314-221-5086 or by email: jose@wrapyourbelly.com
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Living Better & Healthier Lives!
business
EXPLORE THE WORLD OF INTERNATIONAL INVESTMENTS by Jeff Ponte, Edward Jones Advisor
just look around at the products you use in your daily life to identify many successful foreign companies. Why invest a portion of your portfolio internationally? Here are a couple of reasons to consider:
You’re probably accustomed to measuring the progress of your investments, and the overall condition of the investment world, by checking on indexes such as the Dow Jones Industrial Average and the S&P 500. And since these types of benchmarks focus almost exclusively on American companies, you might get the idea that the best investments are located right here in the United States. But that impression would be false — because there are, literally, a world of investment opportunities beyond the U.S. borders. In fact, as of the end of 2010, U.S. stock markets constituted less than a third of the total global stock market value, according to the World Bank. And you can probably
• Growth potential — The United States is a mature, highly developed economy. That doesn’t mean, of course, that we have no “upside” here. However, you can also find considerable growth potential in emerging markets — countries such as China, India, Brazil and Mexico that are characterized by younger, less mature economies. • Diversification — The world’s financial markets are somewhat dependent on one another, but that doesn’t mean they constantly move in unison. In any given year, the U.S. markets may be down, but international markets might be doing better. Consequently, if during that year, you had invested only in U.S.
companies, your portfolio may have taken a hit. It’s important to diversify your portfolio by investing in many different vehicles, but you can also boost your diversification through geography. (Keep in mind, though, that diversification can’t guarantee a profit or protect against loss.) While international investing can be beneficial, it does not come without risks. For one thing, when you invest overseas, you may encounter political instability, which could threaten the financial markets of a country or region. Conversely, financial problems, such as the European debt crisis, can result in loss of confidence in individual governments. Also, you might experience currency risk, which means that changes in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to foreign currencies could harm the value of your investments. And in any given year, any market, foreign or domestic, may be down. Ultimately, you should
THE MISCONCEPTION OF SOCIAL MEDIA
It’s Better to Review Your Annuity
they need you or your services?
When I founded my company 6 years ago, I gave my clients the option of hopping on what I thought was going to be the best thing since sliced bread. I was right and yes we are talking about Social Media. The great thing about it is the platforms are FREE. The worse thing is doing social media “Marketing” without a strategy is very costly when you consider the time and the mistakes that can be made. Social Media is just one of the pieces to ANY Marketing puzzle yet all the other pieces complete the Marketing puzzle. Keep in mind Branding is very important before you launch the Marketing Puzzle. When you share anything online potential customers should immediately know they are in the right place. You only get a very short window to keep their attention so don’t make them wonder if it is you or your business. They should know at first glance. Online Marketing Puzzle Pieces • The Website: What does your website do for your business? Does it bring clients in or frustrate them and run them away. Does it give enough information and is it user friendly. Do you have a blog included in your website? Extremely valuable when it comes to SEO (Search Engine Optimization) • Email – Newsletter Platform: Are you sending out great content on a regular basis? Are you staying top of mind when
For additional information about international investments Jeff Ponte your local Edward Jones advisor can be reached at (314) 469-1696 jeffrey.ponte@edwardjones.com
www.edwardjones.com
by Karen Fox
probably limit your exposure to international investments to no more than 20% to 25% of your overall portfolio, with the exact amount, if any, depending on your situation — your goals, risk tolerance, time horizon, financial situation and other factors. You may also want add an international flavor to your portfolio by investing in quality U.S. companies that do a considerable amount of business abroad. In any case, given the more complex nature of international investing, you’ll want to consult with a financial professional before writing a check. Still, consider the international investment world. With a little exploring, you may discover some good possibilities out there.
Than Rethink Your Retirement.
• Social Platforms: There are tons of them so which ones do you participate in? How much time do you plan to invest? Do you know your target market – your ideal client? • Lead Pages: Do you have any single page platforms that drive traffic to a specific niche on your website? Are you building your email marketing list?
As with any investment, it makes sense to review an annuity every now and then to make sure it’s still working toward your long-term financial goals, such as retirement. Plus, you may find that there are features your current annuity simply doesn’t offer. That’s why we offer complimentary annuity reviews.
• Sales Funnel: What are you giving away that people are willing to give you their email address so you can continue to market to them? That is the place you start to build trust with clients then they start to know and like you. Then you lead them to their next purchase with you. Start small build the trust and then continue offering services or items they can purchase.
So regardless of where you purchased your annuity, call your local financial advisor to schedule your complimentary review. Edward Jones operates as an insurance producer in California, New Mexico, and Massachusetts through the following subsidiaries, respectively: Edward Jones Insurance Agency of California, L.L.C., Edward Jones Insurance Agency of New Mexico, L.L.C., and Edward Jones Insurance Agency of Massachusetts, L.L.C. CA Insurance License #0C24309
• Videos: These can be Professionally created - Semi Professionally or DIY. Videos hold a lot of value for many reasons. Most people are visual learners so we remember more of what we see. Google owns YouTube so you get more exposure and love from them playing in their sandbox. It also allows potential clients to see you and know if they would want to work with you as they start to know, like and trust you.
Jeff Ponte
Financial Advisor .
14278 Ladue Road Chesterfield, MO 63017 314-469-1696
• Advertising: Make sure you add in your budget some advertising. Keep in mind Facebook is your least expensive online advertising option. If this is not something you are versed on, hire a professional to get the most from your investment. Karen Fox better known as www.KarenTHEConnector.com (314) 323-5493
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IS THE PLACE TO BE SEEN THROUGHOUT ALL OF METRO ST. LOUIS!
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REVERSE MORTGAGES: AN UNDERSTANDING by Kevin Kohler, Sr., Reverse Specialist
Reverse Mortgages provide an avenue for those ages 62 and older to access equity in their homes without the obligation of having a monthly mortgage payment. The funds can be used for any purpose and provided through a few different ways. What’s most important, though, is understanding the program and being educated to know whether this is the right fit for you or a loved one. Earlier this year, Reverse Mortgages insured through FHA, called HECMs (Home Equity Conversion Mortgage) had additional protections put in place in light of negative impacts some seniors had faced over the years. Negative
publicity created a stigma around the product, and today, many people avoid talking about this option, when it could be very beneficial to them. The major change put into place is that now there is a financial assessment done, to ensure the borrower has the adequate means to pay their real estate taxes, homeowner’s insurance, and any regular dues on their property. In years past, income and credit were not considered, and the vast majority of cases where someone had been foreclosed on had been due to the fact that the senior was not made aware of their obligation to pay or failed to pay the taxes or insurance. Now, if it is deemed the senior’s monthly income cannot reasonably support those payments, then a portion of the reverse mortgage proceeds will be retained to hold in an account to pay on their behalf. A second important change is that a surviving spouse (who may not have been age 62 at the time of the loan origination) is now allowed to remain living in the property. There is much in the way of misinformation and a large amount of
questions with this relatively unknown product. Does the bank take the home when I pass? What happens to the remaining equity – does it go to my heirs? The best answer is to consult with a specialist who can provide accurate answers and indepth explanations. A consultation is free of charge, and with a reputable lender, free of pressure. The process, along with a discussion of pros and cons (such as with any financial decision), would be discussed simply to provide the education and information, so that you can make the decision if it’s the right fit for you. After a consultation (and possibly many conversations) with a Reverse Mortgage specialist, a proposal can be put together to show you a few different options. It is recommended that you have family, or even your estate planner/attorney attend and talk things over. But, before an actual application can be completed, it is a requirement that you also have an independent counseling session with a HUD approved agency, to discuss these options as well as other
QUALITY OF LIVING Independence Financial Freedom Comfort Age-Friendly
Pay off your existing mortgage to get rid of payments
Travel
Renovate your home
Eliminate bills
Pay for medical expenses
Create a Line of Credit
Have an emergency fund
Purchase a new home/downsize
There is never a required monthly payment. You retain ownership of your home. Kevin Kohler / Dave Mattull
First Integrity Mtg Svcs
kkohler@firstintegrity.com
77 West Port Plaza, Ste 200
davem@firstintegrity.com
St. Louis, MO 63146
NMLS # 404277 / #241253
Company NMLS# 276593
• you must always pay your taxes, insurance, and any dues •there are no required monthly payments •you remain on title and own the home •the funds can be provided: as a lump sum, annuitized in monthly payments, or as a line of credit •any remaining equity upon the payoff of the reverse mortgage is yours, or passed along to your heirs •Use the funds to: pay off an existing mortgage to eliminate monthly payments, home improvement, home health care, travel, purchase a new home, medical bills or emergency fund availability
Kevin Kohler, Sr. Reverse Specialist with First Integrity Mortgage Services, NMLS 404277 More information: (314) 878-7900
hospice care. The benefits are endless when one can make a “DIFFERENCE”.
Heartland Hospice Needs Your Help Now!
Sr. Reverse Specialists Office: 314-878-7900
Here are some key highlights:
VOLUNTEER WITH YOUR HEART AND BRING COMFORT INTO SOMEONE’S LIFE
Everyday people say “I would like to be a part of helping someone” and just don’t know where to start…you can start here!! Perhaps you cannot help others financially but you can give of your time and self which is priceless. Hospice is a special kind of care designed to provide sensitivity and support for people in the final phase of a terminal illness. Heartland Hospice’s goal is to provide palliative and supportive services to meet physical, psychological, social and spiritual needs of patients and their families in a health care facility or other residential settings. Volunteers can provide one-on-one attention to residents who are lonely or cut off from their families, thereby reducing feelings of isolation and contributing to their sense of belonging. Veterans dedicated to visiting with other Veterans are also needed in our
With a Reverse Mortgage, you can access equity in your home to:
options, to ensure you understand what has been presented to you.
Volunteers are the heart of the Hospice Team. We depend on our Hospice volunteers to help us provide the extra love and care our clients and their families need at this time in their life. Heartland volunteers offer support, companionship and practical, caring help to this special group of people. Staying with the patient so family members can take a break, reading scripture to patients, or holding their hand. The help and support our volunteers give is returned to them in countless ways. You can make a DIFFERENCE. All assignments are in close proximity to your home, work or school. You can donate as little or as much of your time as you desire.
Please contact Virginia at (314) 453-0990 if you would like to bring something special into someone’s life. Be sure to inquire about our next Training Class.
1-Bedroom Garden: $385/$405 2-Bedroom Townhouse: $595 Come live with us! Enjoying Life To The Fullest!
FOR MORE INFORMATION: (314) 487-7265
7 ∙ ACTIVE LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE ∙ OCTOBER 2015 ∙ www.activelifestylesmag.com
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VETERANS BENEFITS - WHO QUALIFIES? by Mark Easley, Attorney at Law
Who is Eligible for Veterans Affairs Basic Pension and Aid and Attendance? A pension is a benefit that the VA pays to wartime veterans who have limited or no income and who are at least 65 years old or, if under 65, are permanently or completely disabled. There are also “Death Pensions,” which are need based for a surviving spouse of a deceased wartime veteran who has not remarried. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, out of the 23 million veterans in the United States, only 8 million currently access VA benefits or health care. What Are Aid and Attendance benefits? Aid and Attendance is a benefit paid by Veterans Affairs (VA) to veterans, veteran spouses or surviving spouses. It is paid in addition to a veteran’s basic pension. The benefit may not be paid without eligibility to a VA basic pension. Aid and Attendance is for applicants who need financial help for in–home care, to pay for an assisted living facility or a nursing home. It is a non–service
connected disability benefit, meaning the disability does not have to be a result of service. You cannot receive non–service and service–connected compensation at the same time. Aid and Attendance benefits are paid to those applicants who: •Are eligible for a VA pension •Meet service requirements •Meet certain disability requirements •Meet income and asset limitations What are the Service Requirements for Aid and Attendance? A veteran or the veteran’s surviving spouse may be eligible if the veteran: •Was discharged from a branch of the United States Armed Forces under conditions that were not dishonorable AND •Served at least one day (did not have to be served in combat) during a wartime period (WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam, or Persian Gulf War) and had 90 days of continuous military service. What are the Disability Requirements for Aid and Attendance? Veterans, spouses of veterans or surviving spouses can be eligible for
Aid and Attendance benefits if they meet the following disability requirements: •The aid of another person is needed in order to perform personal functions required in everyday living, such as bathing, feeding, dressing, toileting, adjusting prosthetic devices, or protecting himself/herself from the hazards of his/ her daily environment; or •The claimant is bedridden, in that his/her disability or disabilities require that he/she remain in bed apart from any prescribed course of convalescence or treatment; or •The claimant is in a nursing home due to mental or physical incapacity; or •The claimant is blind, or so nearly blind as to have corrected visual acuity of 5/200 or less, in both eyes, or concentric contraction of the visual field to 5 degrees or less. What are the Income Requirements for Aid and Attendance? The claimant’s countable family income must be below a yearly limit set by law. Countable Income means income received by the claimant and his or her dependents. It includes earnings,
Elder and Estate Planning Law Firm “We help you pay for the care you need.”
• Legal Services Including: • Wills • Trusts • Powers of Attorney • Financial and Medical Directives Aid and Assistance Filing • (VA, Medicaid, Division of Assets) • Long-Term Care Planning • Free Initial Consultation • Affordable Flat Fee Pricing 314-918-0088 www.stlelderlaw.com
Mark Easley, Attorney at Law
disability and retirement payments, interest and dividends, and net income from farming or business. A claimant must report all income, but the VA will exclude any income that the law allows. Public assistance, like SSI, is not counted as part of countable income. The annual income limits for the Aid and Attendance program are higher than those set for the basic pension. The maximum Aid and Attendance benefit that can be paid monthly to a single veteran is $1,789, but the veteran must have countable income of $0 to receive the maximum benefit. and Attendance benefit that can be paid monthly to a single veteran is $1,789, but the veteran must have countable income of $0 to receive the maximum benefit. In any circumstance involving a veteran who is a resident in an assisted living facility or nursing home, the income requirements for the Aid and Attendance benefits are typically easily met. If you or a loved one is a U.S. veteran, it is advisable to contact a professional firm well-versed in VA benefits.
To obtain more information, please contact Mallory at The Elder and Estate Planning Law Firm Attorney Mark Easley 8780 Big Bend Blvd. Suite G St. Louis, MO 63119 (314) 918-0088 - Ext. #4 Mark graduated with a Juris Doctorate from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas in 1990 and also earned a B.S. from John Brown University and an M.B.A. from the University of Tulsa. As a practicing attorney, Mark is dedicated to the fields of elder law, Medicaid planning and estate planning. Mark is licensed to practice law in Missouri, Illinois, Texas and Arkansas. Mark is also a Member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys.
Age 55 Plus Community
Schedule a tour at our lakeside community today!
Schedule a tour at our lakeside community today!
Retirement Cottages Retirement Apartments Assisted Living Apartments & Short-term Respite Apartments
Retirement Cottage Cottages Homes Retirement Apartments Independent Apartments Assisted Living Apartments & Short-term Respite Apartments
(for rehab & recovery, caregiver relief, etc)
(for rehab & recovery, caregiver relief, etc)
(636) 861-3200 www.capealbeon.com
(636) 861-3200 www.capealbeon.com
250 Years – 252 Cakes: The Definitive St. Louis 250th Anniversary Cake Book A local author has done more than take picture of cakes. His book is the story of St. Louis and all that it has to offer - past and present. Beautifully photographed by Matthew S. Nolan, “250 Years – 252 Cakes: The Definitive St. Louis 250th Anniversary Cake Book” visually illustrates the beauty and pride of the metropolitan St. Louis area and its surrounding communities. Rediscover the past, delve into present history and explore the future through this unique look into the entire region. It began with the events planned to commemorate St. Louis’ 250th anniversary. STL 250, the
nonprofit organization in charge of the ‘Cakeways to the West’ event, placed more than 250 fiberglass birthday cakes at various locations throughout the entire region. Nolan celebrates this milestone anniversary through his photographs of the customdecorated cakes by local artists. Each photograph has a location profile that explains the significance of that site to the metropolitan area. Learn more about the sights and history of St. Louis while enjoying this wonderful feast for the eyes with family and friends in the comfort of your home. From the Mount Pleasant Winery in Augusta,
8 ∙ ACTIVE LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE ∙ OCTOBER 2015 ∙ www.activelifestylesmag.com
Missouri, to the West Alton Memorial Park in St. Charles County, every photo captures the spirit of each site. All of the region’s well-known attraction and entertainment venues are included as well as historic sites. About the author: Not a professional photographer, not even an amateur, Matt Nolan is just a guy with a camera, an idea and a commitment to provide a good product. Born and raised in St. Louis, Matt saw the 250th Birthday Cake promotion as an opportunity to experience the sites and learn the history of the city he has lived in all his life but discovered he knew so little about.
The book can be purchased at Amazon.com, The Book House, The History Museum Gift Shop, World News, Christopher’s Gift Shop, Women’s Exchange, Webster Book Shop and The Novel Neighbor.
A Voice For St. Louis’ Retirees!
balloon event and show! Here Albuquerque Balloon Festival. Not partake in the Hospitality Tent, only can you enjoy three days at which is heated for comfort, and the festival - also take in the New is filled with refreshments such Mexico Rail Runner, Cumbres as coffee, hot chocolate, tea, Toltec historic train, Sante Fe, lemonade, donuts and cookies. Taos, and Native American New For nine days in October, Mexico historic sites. You, too, the New Mexico skies are painted can head west with us on this as hundreds of balloons lift off incredible journey. This Vacation from Albuquerque’s Balloon Fiesta Tour still has a few spaces and Park. reservations should be made as Nothing rivals the fl ight of soon as Continued from cover (Travel Healthy & possible! Happy)... the Nations Mass Ascension begins better forthroughout our single Louis is a great place to start several rates mornings the NEW MEXICO BALLOON your vacation planning! guests. Now, when traveling festival which give the public the FESTIVAL TOUR Check with Tours, single out October our Special Autumn best DIRECTIONS time to view the balloons in 4 - 14, 2015 guests can enjoy our greatrange. trips Travel Pages in this issue of flight across the mountain Of the course, lift or off JOIN DIRECTIONS TOURS at sameearly ratesmorning of doubles Active Lifestyles Magazine! will occur after the “Dawn Patrol” ON THIS FUN-FILLED just a little more. (see details Exciting destinationsSCENIC and carefully assesses the morning VACATIONjust TOUR GET-AWAY! below). adventures waiting for you! weatherMany conditions. given See all the details on the next singleWhen travelers the green light, hundreds of pages. remain, Give Few us a spaces call today for a so are also leary about traveling balloons from all over the world book your spot today! complete copy of our upcoming alone. Rest assured, you are rise together in a harmonious lift(314) 577-0077 never “alone”sight! when you are our 2015/2016 Tours, Day Trips off...a thrilling Luncheon Outings! guests!For Untiland Next Month... Happy Trails! ballooning fans There are so many worldwide, the Albuquerque great placesBalloon to explore thisa International Fiesta is holiday season and something in 2016. pilgrimage. There’s for everyone to enjoy... DIRECTIONS Tours whimsical of St.
explore
an established retail store in Gravois Bluffs
between JCPenney & Friar Tucks) SWe’ll TO R E(located G R- US! ABlvd, VO I S and B LMO U 63026 FFS 794B COME Gravois SEE Bluffs (636) Fenton, 326-2626 guide you with experienced mentors OPEN: 10:00a.m. 6:00p.m. Monday - Saturday
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Call Us! (314) 577-0077
Call today and receive our New Catalog featuring upcoming destinations!
(314) 577-0077 toll-free (888) 810-1171
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WE LOVE SINGLE TRAVELERS!
Over the years, we have noticed more and more singles traveling with us! ES L So we have decided to work with our vendors to make it more affordable G N for single travelers to enjoy traveling with DIRECTIONS Tours! SI M E NOW SINGLES CAN TRAVEL WITH US FOR THE SAME PRICE AS DOUBLES* your tour vacation starts here! A * S OR JUST A LITTLE MORE ON LONGER TOURS! E C I R Enjoy Single Travel on any DIRECTIONS Tour for: P Welcome to DIRECTIONS Tours - St. Louis’ Premier Tour Company! With over 20 years of group tour and
*upwetoare3 ready Days:to SAME ASworld, DOUBLE (no supplement) travel experience, take youPRICE across the USA, or justextra around town! We specialize in stress-free tours to finest destinations. Our toursupplement packages include excellent 4 the to 7 Days: ONLY $100.00 accommodations, luxury most meals and supplement all gratuities! 8 tomotorcoaches, 11 Days: ONLY $250.00 We are locally owned and operated. All of our tours provide professional, experienced, 12 to 15 Days: ONLY $350.00 supplement safe and courteous Tour Directors and Drivers. (314) 577-0077Our (888) 810-1171 SINGLES CAN NOW TRAVEL LONGER itineraries are educational, adventurous and most importantly, fun! www.directionstours.com DIRECTIONS Tours uses onlyTHE new BEST state-of-the-art motorcoaches FOR RATES… PERIOD! designed for your traveling comfort and safety. (Excludes Cruises, Flight, Train and Repositioning Tours) Enjoy our affordable rates that give you more value on every tour. For your protection, we are a fully insured tour operator through the Berkely Group, North America’s largest travel insurance company. In addition, we are members of the American Bus Association, St. Louis Convention & Visitors Commission, Missouri Travel Council and Route 66 Association of Missouri. We look forward to welcoming you aboard a DIRECTIONS Tour!
www.hellodirections.com your tour vacation starts here!
DIRECTIONS TOURS EXPLORE SECTION
Welcome to DIRECTIONS Tours - St. Louis’ Premier Tour Company!
www.directionstours.com
With over 20 years of group tour and travel experience, we are ready to take you across the world, USA, or just around town! We specialize in stress-free tours to the finest destinations. Our tour packages include excellent accommodations, luxury motorcoaches, most meals and all gratuities! We are locally owned and operated. All of our tours provide professional, experienced, safe and courteous Tour Directors and Drivers. Our itineraries are educational, adventurous and most importantly, fun! DIRECTIONS Tours uses only new state-of-the-art motorcoaches designed for your traveling comfort and safety. Enjoy our affordable rates that give you more value on every tour. For your protection, we are a fully insured tour operator through the Berkely Group, North America’s largest travel insurance company. In addition, we are members of the American Bus Association, St. Louis Convention & Visitors Commission, Missouri Travel Council and Route 66 Association of Missouri. We look forward to welcoming you aboard a DIRECTIONS Tour!
www.directionstours.com
DIRECTIONS TOURS EXPLORE SECTION, AUTUMN 2015
www.directionstours.com
The Holiday’s can be hectic and busy, so take time out and enjoy them on a DIRECTIONS Tour! Come along and celebrate the season with us ... stress-free, relaxing, entertaining and joyous! Many of our Holiday tours have very few spaces left on them - DON’T MISS OUT... CALL TODAY!
CHRISTMAS IN BRANSON
NOVEMBER 18 -20, 2015 (3 Days) $ 537.00 pp DBL SINGLES SAME PRICE
JUMP START YOUR HOLIDAY SEASON WITH THIS FUN AND ENTERTAINING BRANSON TOUR! Tour Highlights include: 2015 HOLIDAY SHOWS:
* The Lennon Sisters & Osmond Brothers Christmas @ Andy Williams Moon River Theatre * Doug Gabriel Christmas Show AND * The Texas Tenors Christmas Show
• DELUXE ACCOMMODATIONS AT THE HILTON BRANSON LANDING • HISTORIC DOWNTOWN BRANSON AND THE NEW BRANSON LANDING • START YOUR HOLIDAY SHOPPING NOW AND HAVE A LOT OF FUN! *4 MEALS INCLUDED: 2 BREAKFASTS, 2 SIT DOWN DINNERS TICKETS AND SPACE ARE LIMITED - RESERVE EARLY!
SMOKY MOUNTAINS & BILTMORE HOLIDAY
NOVEMBER 9 - 14, 2015 (6 Days) $ 1059.00 pp DBL Singles Only $100.00 addtl
CELEBRATE the season in Tennessee and North Carolina’s Smoky Mountains! Tour Highlights include:
• CHRISTMAS AT BILTMORE
EXPLORE GEORGE VANDERBILT’S, BILTMORE - AMERICA’S LARGEST HOME. CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS WITH THOUSANDS OF SPARKLING LIGHTS AND THE BEAUTY OF THE SEASON.
• SMOKY MOUNTAIN CHRISTMAS
THIS HOLIDAY SEASON EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTY OF THE SMOKY MOUNTAINS! • SMOKY MOUNTAIN CHRISTMAS AT DOLLYWOOD INCLUDING SHOWS, HOLIDAY FEAST AND OVER 4 MILLION HOLIDAY LIGHTS! • TWO NIGHTS IN THE GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS • SMOKY MOUNTAIN OPRY CHRISTMAS IN PIGEON FORGE SHOW • THE INCREDIBLE CHRISTMAS PLACE SHOP AND GALLERY • GREAT SMOKY MOUTAIN NATIONAL PARK • GATLINBURG HOLIDAY CRAFT SHOW • AND MORE! *10 MEALS INCLUDED: 5 BREAKFASTS, 5 DINNERS
HOLIDAY NOV. 30 - DEC 2 , 2015 (3 Days) $ 529.00 pp DBL MYSTERY TOUR SINGLES SAME PRICE!
Tour Highlights include: A NEW DESTINATION THAT DIRECTIONS HAS NEVER TAKEN YOU TO BEFORE. COME ON ALONG THIS HOLIDAY SEASON!!! ALL ATTRACTIONS! • THE COMPANY OF FRIENDS! • LAUGHTER AND FUN! • GREAT FOOD! • AND MUCH MORE (OF COURSE)! *2 MEALS INCLUDED: 1 BREAKFAST, 1 DINNER SIGN UP EARLY TO ENSURE YOUR SPACE!
Call Us! (314) 577-0077 www.directionstours.com
NEW YORK CITY MACY’S DAY PARADE
NOVEMBER 24 - 28, 2015 (5 Days) $ 2107.00 pp DBL Singles Only $250.00 addtl
Come share Thanksgiving with DIRECTIONS Tours in amazing NYC! Experience the “Miracle on 34th Street” in person! Tour Highlights include: • THE 89th ANNUAL MACY’S THANKSGIVING DAY PARADE • THANKSGIVING EVE BALLOON GLOW IN CENTRAL PARK • THE ROCKETTES 2015 CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR AT RADIO CITY MUSIC HALL • IN DEPTH TOUR OF NEW YORK CITY INCLUDING CENTRAL PARK, UPPER EAST/WEST SIDES, TRIBECA, SOHO, CHINATOWN, LITTLE ITALY, CHELSEA, TIMES SQUARE, BROADWAY AND SO MUCH MORE! • CIRCLE LINE CRUISE WITH STATUE OF LIBERTY VIEWS • NEW 9/11 MEMORIAL / MUSEUM AND WORLD TRADE CENTER • DELUXE MANHATTAN ACCOMMODATIONS FOR FOUR NIGHTS *CALL FOR FULL ITINERARY AND INCLUSIONS TICKETS AND SPACE ARE VERY LIMITED - PLEASE RESERVE EARLY! ALL AIR AND NEW YORK CITY TRANSPORTATION INCLUDED! (WEATHER PERMITTING)
BIG EASY
CHRISTMAS
DECEMBER 1 - 4, 2015 (4 Days) $ 991.00 pp DBL Singles Only $100.00 addtl
Take a short flight to celebrate the holiday season NEW ORLEANS style! Tour Highlights include: • NONSTOP FLIGHTS TO/FROM NEW ORLEANS • TWO NIGHTS DELUXE ACCOMMODATIONS IN CENTRAL NEW ORLEANS • STEAMBOAT JAZZ DINNER CRUISE • JACKSON SQUARE AND ST. LOUIS CATHEDRAL • HISTORIC CAFE’ DU MONDE • THE PRESBYTÈRE MUSEUM & MARDI GRAS EXHIBIT • FRENCH QUARTER & MARKET, BOURBON & ROYAL STREET • HISTORIC NEW ORLEANS CHRISTMAS HOME TOUR • COURT OF TWO SISTER JAZZ BRUNCH • GUIDED TOUR OF GARDEN DISTRICT DON’T MISS OUT! *5 MEALS INCLUDED: 3 BREAKFASTS, 1 BRUNCH, 1 DINNER CRUISE
Gulf Coast “White” Christmas
DECEMBER 7 - 12, 2015 (6 Days) $ 997.00 pp DBL Singles Only $100.00 addtl
Enjoy “White” SAND beaches this holiday season on America’s Emerald Coast! Exploring Gulf Shores and Pensacola! Tour Highlights include: • GULF SHORES, ALABAMA & PENSACOLA, FLORIDA WHITE SAND BEACHES • TOURING HISTORIC MOBILE BAY AND VILLAGE OF FAIRHOPE, AL • FAMOUS BELLINGRATH GARDENS & HOME “MAGIC CHRISTMAS IN LIGHTS” • NATIONAL NAVAL AVIATION MUSEUM AND AIR STATION IN PENSACOLA • PERDIDO KEY STATE PARK • HISTORIC BRAGG-MITCHELL MANSION & MALAGA INN • ST. BERNARD ABBEY, MONASTERY & AVA MARIA SHRINE *10 MEALS INCLUDED: 5 BREAKFASTS, 5 DINNERS EXPERIENCE THE GULF COAST - CLOSE TO HOME AND FILLED WITH HISTORY AND CHARM OF THE SEASON!
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
JANUARY 14 - 27, 2016 (By Coach) JANUARY 18 - 25, 2016 (By Air)
ESCAPE
SAN DIEGO * OCEANSIDE * NEWPORT BEACH * HOLLYWOOD * BEVERLY HILLS * FERRY TO CATALINA ISLAND *
ENCORE TRIP IN 2016 - JOIN US ON THIS EXCITING TOUR TO SUNNY SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA! MOTORCOACH ACROSS THE BEAUTIFUL SCENIC SOUTHWEST TO CALIFORNIA OR FLY ROUNDTRIP TO/FROM SAN DIEGO. Tour Highlights include: • SAN DIEGO TOURING INCLUDING HARBOR, BEACHES & HOTEL DEL CORONADO • OLD SAN LUIS MISSION TOUR AND MUSEUM • CALIFORNIA SURF MUSEUM & NEWPORT BEACH • FLYER FERRY TO CATALINA ISLAND AND DAY ON THE ISLAND • OCEANSIDE, CALIFORNIA & HARBORSIDE DINNER • BEVERLY HILLS TROLLEY TOUR • CELEBRITY HOMES AND RODEO DRIVE • FAMOUS HOLLYWOOD SIGN & WALK OF FAME • BEVERLY HILLS HOTEL & HOUSE OF BLUES • SAN MARCOS VALLEY & VALLEY CENTER • SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA AGRICULTURE HUB • BATES CALIFORNIA NUT COMPANY • LAGUNA BEACH AND SCENIC PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY 1 • BEAUTIFUL SCENERY THROUGHOUT! • MOTORCOACH TO/FROM CALIFORNIA INCLUDES FAMOUS ROUTE 66 STOPS: TUCUMCARI, NM & HOLBROOK, AZ, PHOENIX, AZ AND GRAND CANYON. Deluxe Motorcoach transportation, eight enroute hotels (to/from), all Driver & Director gratuities and sightseeing stops. 14 DAYS TOTAL *20 MEALS INCLUDED: 14 BREAKFASTS, 6 DINNERS
just... $ 2497.00 pp DBL Singles Only $350.00 addtl • AIR FLIGHTS TO/FROM ST. LOUIS AND SAN DIEGO INCLUDES 8 DAYS TOTAL *12 MEALS INCLUDED: 7 BREAKFASTS, 5 DINNERS
just... $ 1959.00 pp DBL Singles Only $250.00 addtl
After the holiday hustle and bustle, you may be thinking about getting away after the New Year sets in! Warm breezes and fantastic sights await you in Southern California this January! Southern California consists of the lower half of the state, primarily from Los Angeles to the Mexico (California Baja) border. As winter continues across most of the country, this part of California is ideal for a break from the cold weather, with daytime temperatures in the 70’s. DIRECTIONS Tours is offering a mid-January warm-up featuring the “best of” Southern California on the Southern California Escape Tour with departures from St. Louis via deluxe motorcoach or air to/from California. This exciting tour package includes portions of old “Route 66”, southwestern scenery and a stop at the south rim of the Grand Canyon (roundtrip motorcoach) or direct roundtrip flights to/ from San Diego to join the tour package. DIRECTIONS TOURS EXPLORE SECTION, AUTUMN 2015
Highlights include seven full days in Southern California! Beginning in San Diego, called “California’s Finest City” located on the beautiful Pacific Ocean in the southwestern corner of California. Travelers will enjoy San Diego’s diverse attractions, from beautiful Pacific coast beaches to historic sights. A locally guided city tour will feature many of San Diego’s best architecture, history and current day information. A trip to San Diego would not be complete without time to visit the famous Hotel del Coronado. This beautiful historic hotel was originally built in 1885. This wooden Victorian beach resort is located immediately behind the beach, facing the Pacific Ocean. It remains the largest beach resort on the North American Pacific Coast. The tour will then follow the Pacific coast northward to Oceanside, California “America’s Surf City”. Enjoy a tour of town, the beach and pier and entrance to the California Surf Museum. Another tour will be at the Mission San Luis. Founded in 1798 by Padre Fermin Francisco de Lasuen, the Mission was named after St. Louis IX, King of France, who lived during the 13th century. Another day on the tour will be on California’s famous Catalina Island. Catalina Island is truly one of California’s favorite get-a-way destinations. Sail from Newport Beach to the island for an entire day of shopping and sightseeing on the island. Next, we will visit the sights and sounds of Hollywood, Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive. Enjoy a guided tour of Beverly Hills and enjoy a sneak peek at
some of the biggest stars mansions and way of life. Enjoy Hollywood Boulevard and the famous Walk of Fame, Dolby (Kodak) Theatre (venue of the Academy Awards and many other red carpet events), and see the marquee of the famous Chinese Theatre. The tour will visit the top of Griffith Park overlooking all of the San Fernando Valley with LA’s impressive skyline, Pacific Ocean, Santa Monica and Burbank. Enjoy touring the famous and historic Griffith Observatory, Southern California’s gateway to the cosmos! Take a look through telescopes, explore fascinating space exhibits, see a live show in the Samuel Oschin Planetarium, and enjoy spectacular view of the Hollywood Sign. Best photo spot imaginable! Returning southbound, the tour will travel through California’s beautiful farmlands. California’s agriculture is the most productive and varied in the U.S., owing to the climate, topography, complex systems of water delivery, and diverse population of growers. Coastal temperatures are fairly consistent, and can support year-round production of many row crops. Two of South California’s major crops include fruits and nuts. A visit to Bates Nut Farm will highlight this agricultural valley.
CALL US: (314) 577-0077 - (888) 810-1171
www.directionstours.com
DIRECTIONS ANNUAL ANNIVERSARY
Southern Caribbean Cruise Tour FEB. 6 - MARCH 21, 2016 (By Coach) FEB. 8 - MARCH 19, 2016 (By Air) Saint Maarten ~ Saint Lucia ~ Martinique
St Kitts and Nevis ~ Scenic Cruising Soufriere Bay ~ Barbados
~ Mount Pelee ~ St. Thomas ~ Hay Moon Cay
Join DIRECTIONS Tours on our annual Anniversary Caribbean Cruise for 2016. Our cruise is roundtrip from Ft. Lauderdale, FL onboard Holland America’s luxurious M.S. OOSTERDAM. MOTORCOACH OR FLY TO/FROM FT. LAUDERDALE FOR CRUISE. AN EXCITING CRUISE TOUR VACATION NOT TO MISS! Tour Highlights include: • 12 DAY CRUISE WITH 7 BEAUTIFUL EASTERN AND SOUTHERN CARIBBEAN PORTS • NEW CRUISING OF SOUFRIERE BAY - AND CRUSING MOUNT PELEE (Active Volcano) • INSIDE, OUTSIDE & VERANDAH CABINS AVAILABLE FOR OUR GROUP! CRUISE TOUR PACKAGE INCLUDES ALL TAXES, ALL PORT CHARGES, ALL ONBOARD MEALS, ALL BOOKING FEES & OPERATIONS, SPECIAL GROUP COCKTAIL PARTY AND DIRECTIONS TOUR DIRECTOR THROUGHOUT CRUISE. • MOTORCOACH TO/FROM FT. LAUDERDALE INCLUDES 16 DAYS TOTAL. Deluxe Motorcoach transportation, four enroute hotels (to/from), four enroute breakfasts, all Driver & Director gratuities and sightseeing stops and CRUISE PACKAGE ABOVE.
just... $ 2897.00 pp DBL (book before Oct 25 and save 75.00 pp)
• AIR FLIGHTS TO/FROM ST. LOUIS AND FT. LAUDERDALE INCLUDES 12 DAYS TOTAL. all Driver & Director gratuities, Airport to/from port transportation and CRUISE PACKAGE ABOVE. just... $ 2674.00 pp DBL
MIAMI& FEBRUARY 7 - 16, 2016 (10 Days) $ 2477.00 pp DBL Singles Only $250.00 addtl The tour vacation for the winter blues! Not just upper or lower keys... this tour includes ALL of the keys from Key Largo to Key West! Unbeatable price from St. Louis! Tour Highlights include: • MIAMI CITY TOUR • TWO NIGHTS IN MIAMI • TWO NIGHTS IN THE KEYS • SOUTH BEACH AND ART DECO TOUR • MIAMI AND BISCAYNE BAY CRUISE TOUR • ANCIENT SPANISH MONASTERY TOUR • ENJOY THE BEAUTIFUL WHITE SAND BEACHES OF MIAMI • TOUR OF EVERGLADES NATIONAL PARK AND VISITOR CENTER • CORAL CASTLE, HOMESTEAD • TWO NIGHTS IN THE KEYS • SCENIC DRIVING THE FLORIDA KEYS OVERSEAS HIGHWAY - BEAUTIFUL! • FULL DAY IN KEY WEST • KEY WEST CONCH TRAIN TOUR • HEMMINGWAY’S HOME AND GARDENS • LOURDES “HURRICANE” GROTTO AND SHRINE • SOMBRERO BEACH - THE KEYS MOST PRISTINE! • TAKE IN SOME DEEP SEA FISHING IN THE KEYS IF YOU WISH Unbelievable Price for South Florida Winter Get-Away! Wish to Fly? Call US! *15 MEALS INCLUDED: 9 BREAKFASTS, 6 DINNERS
DIRECTIONS TOURS EXPLORE SECTION, AUTUMN 2015
CALL US: (314) 577-0077 - (888) 810-1171
www.directionstours.com
SAN ANTONIO
FEBRUARY 22 - 25, 2016 (4 Days) $ 799.00 pp DBL Singles Only $100.00 addtl
winter fly away
NEW IN 2016! Visit San Antonio this winter season! The gem city of Southwest Texas and scenic hill country make this destination a great warm weather escape. Tour Highlights include: • THREE NIGHTS IN BEAUTIFUL SAN ANTONIO • TOUR OF SAN ANTONIO • THE “PALACIO DEL RIO” (RIVERWALK) • RIVERWALK BOAT CRUISE • FIESTA MERCADO AND MARKETPLACE • THE ALAMO • SAN JOSE MISSION IN SAN ANTONIO • SAN ANTONIO MISSIONS NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK • FORT SAM HOUSTON AND MUSEUM • FAMOUS JAPANESE TEA GARDENS • TOWER OF AMERICAS FLAGS OVER TEXAS OBSERVATION DECK • KING WILLIAM HISTORIC DISTRICT • SAS SHOES FACTORY • LA VILLITA HISTORIC ARTS VILLAGE AND MUCH MORE! NON-STOP ROUNDTRIP AIRFARE & TRANSPORTATION *5 MEALS INCLUDED: 3 BREAKFASTS, 2 DINNERS
Steel Magnolias
Natchitoches to Natchez
MARCH 14 - 19, 2016 (6 Days) $ 1197.00 pp DBL Singles Only $100.00 addtl
Tour Highlights include: • FEATURING NATCHITOCHES AND THE NATCHEZ TRACE • EXPERIENCE THE REAL LIFE STORY BEHIND THE STEEL MAGNOLIAS BOOK AND MOVIE including famous filming sites: TRURY’S (DOLLY PARTON) BEAUTY SHOP, DRIVE DOWN HARLING LANE, SHELBY’S (JULIA ROBERTS) HOME, THE STEEL MAGNOLIAS HOUSE ON RUE JEFFERSON VISIT ST. AUGUSTINE CATHOLIC CHURCH AT MELROSE, SCENE OF THE WEDDING TIME IN THE HISTORIC DISTRICT OF NATCHITOCHES, VOTED ONE OF THE FIVE MOST ROMANTIC MAIN STREETS IN THE UNITED STATES • KAFFIE-FREDERICK MERCANTILE, CIRCA 1863 • THE CREOLE ROQUE HOUSE, CIRCA 1803 • EXPLORE NATCHEZ, MS, THE OLDEST SETTLEMENT ON THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER • DRIVING ALONG THE NATCHEZ TRACE • TOUR MELROSE PLANTATION • TOUR NATCHEZ STANTON HALL • NATCHEZ NATIONAL CEMETARY * 10 MEALS: 5 BREAKFASTS, 5 DINNERS Educational, Scenic and Fun! Call early to reserve your space!
Relax... your tour vacation starts here! Call Us! (314) 577-0077 www.directionstours.com
CARDINALS SPRING TRAINING
MARCH 2 - 9, 2016 (8 Days) $ 1677.00 pp DBL Singles Only $250.00 addtl GO CRAZY FOLKS… we are ready to go “root on the home team” for another spectacular year of baseball in St. Louis! Our 15th Annual Cardinal’s Spring Training Tour offers more than just baseball! Tour Highlights include: • THREE EXCITING CARDINALS SPRING TRAINING GAMES IN FLORIDA • ROGER DEAN STADIUM • ALL SUITES HOTEL IN PALM BEACH 3 NIGHTS! • MANATEE QUEEN BOAT CRUISE AND TOUR • BEACH COMBING ON JUPITER BEACH • INTERCOASTAL WATER DINING IN JUPITER * 13 MEALS INCLUDED: 7 BREAKFASTS, 1 LUNCH, 5 DINNERS BOOK EARLY TO SECURE YOUR SPACE!!! *dates chosen for Opening Days at spring training. Dates may slighty shift once final 2016 Spring Training Schedule is announced in November 2015.
Mystery Spring MARCH 28 - 30, 2016 (3 Days) Fly Away $ 587.00 pp DBL Singles Call For Great Rate!
Tour Highlights include: WELCOME ABOARD FRIENDS, YOU’VE BEEN CLEARED FOR TAKE-OFF TO ???? JOIN US ON THIS NEW FLY AWAY MYSTERY DESTINATION TOUR! Tour Highlights include: • NON-STOP ROUND-TRIP AIR FROM/TO ST. LOUIS • NEW DESTINATION • THE COMPANY OF FRIENDS! • TWO NIGHTS DELUXE HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS • ALL ATTRACTIONS • LAUGHTER AND FUN! • GREAT FOOD! • AND SO MUCH MORE (of course)! *4 MEALS INCLUDED: 2 BREAKFASTS, 2 DINNERS WE’RE EXCITED TO JET AWAY WITH YOU THIS SPRING... SPACE IS LIMITED SO RESERVE EARLY!
OUR MYSTERY FLY AWAY TOURS HAVE BEEN SO POPULAR THANKS TO ALL OF YOU! YOU NEVER KNOW WHERE WE WILL END UP AFTER THE FLIGHT! THEY ALWAYS SELL OUT FAST - SO CALL EARLY TO RESERVE YOUR SPACE TODAY!
Call Us! (314) 577-0077 www.directionstours.com
DIRECTIONS TOURS EXPLORE SECTION, AUTUMN 2015
CALL US: (314) 577-0077 - (888) 810-1171
www.directionstours.com
“Tired of Suffering Hair Loss”?
cuisine
Let the professionals at Continued from cover (Jilly’s Cafe & Steakhouse)... Hans Wiemann, L A ND & CRUISE TOURS your trusted hair restoration experts for over 50 Years, get you on a path to restoring your hair to its natural & beautiful condition. Anne: Do you like St. Louis? Maria: I like it here. It’s more plain out west, but here we have the rolling hills and it’s such a pretty state. Jose: We grew up going to Texas every year and it was very plain to us. No hills, no trees, nothing.
Anne: Tell me how 3 Margaritas happened for you. Jose: While my mom was waiting for immigration paperwork for my sister, she came here and applied for a job as a waitress. Then two days before I moved here I was kidnapped in Mexico. Maria: They wanted his car and his money. Jose made a mistake by taking all of his money out of the bank. They saw him with the money, a nice car, and they knew he was young. Jose: There is so much corruption in ® Mexico and people that work in banks have connections with criminals because they know how much money people have. So, I was completely broke when I came to St. Louis. That had been my college money so I had to start working again in order to save money for school and that’s how I started working here as a cashier at 3 Margaritas. I actually was working two jobs, one here and one at the college. I worked here all throughout university and I graduated with a degree in marketing. I was very responsible and never missed a day at work.
made the other two very angry and they blamed the other owner for bringing in this manager. So, the biggest owner decided to sell out his portion. I was a college student and didn’t have any money but the one owner just wanted out. So, I took out a personal loan and maxed out all
of my credit cards in order to buy in.
and $6.99. I couldn’t beli I don’t know how you pr rice and beans, but they a I’ve ever had. My fajita wa and the margarita was fan Maria: I know, the bea good. I can’t stop eating th I start, that’s it and I don’t beans because they make bad, you know! (Much
Anne: Talk about a leap of faith! Jose: Yes. I put everything I had down and owned sixty percent of the restaurant in 2011. I bought another ten percent and about a year later I bought the remaining thirty percent.
Anne: I loved it all. Includin which tasted homemade. food represent a certain area Marie: This is more of a T Jose: And I would say that it Northern Mexico style, mor
Anne:
Maria: The rice and actually a Southern Mex and that’s why it tastes s from any other rice and be here. In the north, they to the rice and I didn’t lik the north they also add the salsa and when I ca said, no more cumin! An oregano! We are not restaurant. I have to love it Jose: The guys that we from were from Northe and when I bought thi wasn’t doing very well at were losing money and they sold it to us. So w recipes to reflect a little b Mexico, really our food many other areas o Maria: The only thin change was the enchilada they are suited for Amer and our customers r them. But, I have adde enchiladas that are more
Amazing.
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How many of
your family members work here? Come see the latest in Hair Restoration Techniques FOR MEN AND WOMEN Jose: Both my mom and dad here and they are and were including… •Brio Hair Replacement Systems work such a great help because I was still going to UMSL at that time. •Laser Hair Therapy Anne: You were so young! How • • Robotic Hair Transplant many hours a week are you putting
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Anne: How did you go from working as a cashier to becoming the owner? Jose: That is an interesting question. There was an argument at that time between the three owners. One owner had brought in a manager who was stealing money and that
in the restaurant nowadays? Jose: I’m in maybe 45 hours a week but when I first bought 3 Margaritas I was working over 125 hours a week. Maria: I also used to work many hours but just come in mornings to afternoon now. Anne: Had either one of you had any restaurant experience prior to 3 Margaritas? I worked for a company in Mexico City and we served lunches for the employees of that business.
*Mention this Ad and receive 10% OFF all services! Anne: I was in yesterday for lunch
and I was really impressed. You have so many lunch specials for just $5.99
Financial Solutions for a Better Tomorrow 3 Margaritas is dedicated to make customers happy. We are a family owned Mexican Restaurant which carries a great variety of Mexican Food.
Let us help you plan for a more secure financial future by applying sound investment solutions to life’s financial demands. Call us today to schedule your no-obligation consultation. Financial issues can be complex. Doesn’t it make sense to work with an experienced financial professional?
Serves We Provide: ♦ Planning for Retirement ♦ College Funding ♦ Managing Money During Retirement
69 Fenton Plaza, Fenton MO 636-326-4006 www.threemargaritasfenton.com
♦ Legacy Planning and Insurance Needs Michael J. Corgiat, ChFC
Financial Planner - Keystone Financial Services, LLC 16024West Manchester 2200 Port PlazaRd, Dr.,Suite Suite 228 326 Ellisville, MO 63011 St. Louis, MO 63146 636-594-2385E: mcorgiat@keystonefncl.com P: 314-997-1947 Securities offered through FSC Securities Corporation, member FINRA/SIPC. Michael J. Corgiat, Securities offeredInvestment through Securities member FINRA/SIPC. Michael J. Corgiat, Representative. advisoryAmerica, services Inc., offered through The Retirement Group, LLC. aRegistered registered Representative. Advisory serviceswith offered Securities America Advisors, Inc. Keystone Financial investment advisor not affiliated FSCthrough Securities Corporation. Michael J. Corgiat, Representative. Services, LLC and Securities unaffiliated. Keystone FinancialAmerica Services,are LLC and FSC Securities Corporation are unaffiliated.
ANY FOOD PURCHASE of $45 or more OR $5 OFF any food purchase of $35 or more. Offer cannot be combined with 1.99 Happy Hour Margaritas. Not valid with other offers or coupons. EXPIRES: NOVEMBER 15, 2015 ONLY ONE COUPON PER TABLE / NO SEPARATE CHECKS.