Rolling Daily Volume 14 by Deliverabilities

ROLLING DAILY FIRST CLASS IN EVERY WAY

TOURS | CHARTERS | CASINOS

ISSUE 14 NOVEMBER 2019

7 UNIQUE THINGS YOU CAN ONLY DO IN SALADO

No matter the time of year, you can make good use of...

Learn how to create glass art, stay at an inn that welcomed Texas legends and...

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HOW TO SPEND A WEEKEND IN SALADO

In the 1860s, the route that would become known as the Chisholm Trail....

HERE’S WHY YOU NEED TO CHECK OUT THIS FORMER STAGECOACH STOP The best way to experience tiny Salado, Texas...

HOW TO HAVE A PERFECT DAY IN SALADO, TEXAS

HIDDEN GAMBLING TAX HITS RETIREES HARD Gambling losses do not impact your tax return nearly as much...

Casinos are exciting places and guarantee a classy and memorable evening of adult fun...

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14 BEST PARKS NATIONAL PARKS IN TEXAS Texas boasts some of themost spectacular scenery in...

PRODUCTION Production deliverabilities layout&design: Phone: 360.468.3699

Email: info@deliverabilites.com www.deliverabilities.com

8 CASINO LIFE HACKS THAT WILL MAKE YOU A RICHER PLAYER

HOW TO LEAVE A CASINO A WINNER: A PLAYER’S GUIDE Casinos, as the old saying goes, are not built on winners; and yet, there are people who leave...

TAKE AN ECO FRIENDLY VACATION – LOW IMPACT TRAVEL TIPS

Every summer, millions of people world-wide travel far from home to enjoy holidays, vacations and...

WHERE TO GO. WHAT TO DO.

ADVERTISING First Class Tours

opportunities:

Phone: 281.590.8800 Email: info@firstclasstours.net www.firstclasstours.net

NOVEMBER 2019

What a wonderful time of year! The temperatures begin to drop, and we start to think about the holiday season. It is also a time of year when our hearts and minds are turned to those things that we are most thankful for. Over the last month, I have given a lot of thought to what it is that I am most grateful for, and I thought that I would share that with you! I am grateful for my family. Like most of you, my family is what drives me to be the best I can every day. I am grateful for my Father, Lanny, who founded First Class Tours, for his vision and passion for this industry that has helped make this company what it is today. We all strive to live up to his standards every day, and it continues to drive us to be better. I am grateful for the team at First Class Tours. Through thick or thin, we are a team, and I am proud to be shoulder to shoulder with them every day, regardless of the circumstances. There is little that brings me more joy than to see this group of people striving every day to be the best in the business and to provide our customers with the experience that has come to be known as First Class Tours. They have embraced and embody our daily goal of being “first class in every way.” I am proud of each of them, and I am grateful to them for their daily contribution. I am also extremely grateful to our customers, without whom none of this would be possible. I am thankful to those who choose to ride on our casino trips and those who charter our buses. I am grateful for each and every customer who trusts us to help them get where ever they are going. I know that every customer has choices, and I am grateful that you choose us. This time of year causes one to reflect, and as I do that, I continue to give thanks for all that I have. For the opportunity, I have to be a part of this journey that involves so many. I am proud of what First Class Tours has become and what it’s future holds. From our family to yours, we wish you all the most wonderful, peaceful, and joyous holiday seasons. We hope that as you reflect on those things that matter most to you, that you will see that while there is much that makes us all different that there is more that makes us the same, and that together, we can all make the world just a little better each and every day. Happy holidays from First Class Tours.

-Jeff Rogers

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Jeff Rogers President First Class Tours Houston, TX

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7 UNIQUE THINGS YOU CAN ONLY DO IN SALADO BY: VISITSALADOTEXAS.COM

Learn how to create glass art, stay at an inn that welcomed Texas legends and enjoy the independent spirit and friendly small-town charm of Salado. Nestled among the rolling green hills of Central Texas along the pristine Salado Creek, our Village has always been one of a kind. Home to one of the first co-ed colleges

in the United States and a stop on the historic Chisholm Trail, the Village of Salado has attracted new and interesting people since its earliest days. Today, it’s a haven for world-class artists that is full of historic bed and breakfasts, restaurants, and endless things to

discover. Situated just a stone’s throw away from I-35 an hour north of Austin, Salado feels like it’s worlds away. Get to know some of the unique things you can only do here below. Salado Travel Tip: To really kick back and savor a slower pace of life, rent an e-bike from LoneStar

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NOVEMBER 2019

eBikes or a golf cart from Fairway Sports Rentals. LoneStar eBikes even offers tours of Salado if you’re looking for a guided adventure through the village. Stay at the Historic Stagecoach Inn It’s not every day that you can walk in the footsteps of larger-than-life figures www.firstclasstours.net

like Sam Houston and the infamous outlaw Jesse James. But at the Stagecoach Inn, you can stay where, long ago, they once hung their hats on their journeys across the state. Built in 1861 by the town’s first settlers, the Stagecoach Inn has welcomed notable travelers since the days of the Chisholm Trail. Today, the inn is a comfortable home

away from home with unparalleled historic charm in a location that can’t be beat. Choose from rooms with one king or two queen beds on the first or second floor, all of which come with an espresso machine and cable TV with HBO. To really live it up, book the deluxe suite with a king bed, parlor room and a kitchenette.

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Of course, there’s more to the Stagecoach Inn than its rooms. Start your day with some mouthwatering steak and eggs or buttermilk waffles with a cup of coffee and come back later in the day for blackened catfish or the signature SCI Burger at the Stagecoach Inn’s very own restaurant. For the full Stagecoach experience, order the four-course meal that starts with tea bread or hush puppies and includes chicken fried steak or a

half-grilled pimento cheese sandwich served with banana fritters. With its upscale feel and a bar that serves creative cocktails and a long list of beer and wine, it’s also the perfect place to wind down after a day exploring town. The Stagecoach Inn isn’t the only historic spot you can stay here, as the Inn at Salado Bed & Breakfast, The Rose Mansion B&B and Inn on the Creek offer unique

stays of their own. Meet Local Artists & Create Your Own Masterpiece Try your hand at blowing glass, build your own piece of pottery by hand and strike up a conversation with artists known around the world. Salado has long attracted artists of all kinds, from painters and potters to playwrights and song writers, and the best way to experience this side of town

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NOVEMBER 2019

is to get your hands dirty. Start at Salado Glassworks, where you can watch the expert glass blowers create colorful bowls, plates and other items. Drop into one of the Blow Your Own events and you’ll be blowing glass (almost) like a pro, while the artist team helps shape the piece that you’ll take home with you. As you’d expect, Salado Glassworks isn’t the only place where you can create

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your own art. Watch clay thrower Ro Shaw work the potter’s wheel and use an old Japanese quickfiring method to create stoneware at the Ro Shaw Clay Studio. Shape your own work of art on the wheel during one of the studio’s two-hour classes, then come back later to pick it up. If painting is more your thing, look no further than Cork & Create classes at Sirril Art Gallery. Round out your journey

through Salado’s arts scene at Mud Pies Gallery, where you’ll come for the handmade pottery and stick around for the authentic Texas fudge and great conversation. Explore the Royal Street District With its art galleries, restaurants and a youthful vibe, the Royal Street District has a bit of something for everyone.

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Start at Barrow Brewing Company, the townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s craft brewer located within a revived old pole barn granary nestled alongside Salado Creek that was a key part of local history. Step into the decidedly rustic taproom and behold the jaw-dropping selection of beer brewed in house, from a stout brewed with roasted coconut to the Evil Catfish IPA, a pleasantly hoppy brew named after a local legend. A family-friendly

hangout for locals and visitors alike, the brewery hosts everything from live music on the weekends to bike rides and yoga, so plan to stick around for a while. Have a drink or two at Barrow, then go for a stroll through the rest of the district to uncover its many treasures. Peruse fashionable clothes and jewelry at the boutique shops, visit art galleries and discover our history at the

Salado Museum & College Park. Once the sun starts to set, head over to Ramble Restaurant & Farmhouse Grill, an upscale globally inspired eatery that serves dishes made with Texasgrown ingredients and shots on its outdoor patio. Get your fill, then head back out into the district to enjoy your night out on the town.

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NOVEMBER 2019

Browse Unique Boutique Shops As much as Salado is a hot spot for artists and art lovers, we have just as much to offer browsers and shoppers. Wander through the Village and you’ll come across all sorts of boutiques that sell art, glassware, clothing, jewelry and just about everything you can think of. Many of our shops are concentrated in Salado Square, where historic brick buildings

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imported from around the state line both sides of Main Street. Magnolias of Salado brings 13 specialty shops under one roof, Classics on Main stocks handcrafted furniture and a whimsical collection of art and 21 Main is where you’ll find unique home décor. While Salado Square has more than enough shopping to keep you busy, we’re just getting started. The Shoppes on Main fills more than 5,000

square feet with 25 shops that sell women’s clothing, jewelry, wedding gifts, gourmet food and more, and Thingaderas boasts a collection of local art and handmade soaps. With so much to shopping to do, we suggest you leave some extra space in your luggage. You’ll thank us later. Enjoy the “Texiest” Wines Around You may have heard of wines made here in Texas.

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Heck, you may have even tried a few. But Salado Winery Co. is the only place you can taste the “Texiest” wines around. The winery’s tantalizing menu of reds and whites are made with Texas-grown grapes, most of which are sourced from vineyards right here in Bell County. Whether you prefer lighter wines like a chardonnay or those on the bolder side, such as the Texas

Tempranillo, you’ll find something to fall in love with. Trying these wines is just part of the experience at Salado Winery Co. The tasting room, located inside of an oversized log cabin, showcases the works of local artists. Settle in somewhere cozy and pair your wine of choice with cheese and crackers (you can bring your own picnic, too). Make sure to give the resident cat a scratch on the head. We hear it makes

the wine taste even better. Witness the Legends of Salado Once upon a time, Central Texas was on the edge of the Texas frontier. Salado Legends, a popular and long-running outdoor musical drama brings this era to life. Noted as a “Local Legacy” by the Library of Congress, the play combines local history and fictional

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NOVEMBER 2019

storytelling to create an experience for the whole family. The tall tales of the Tonkowa Indians, Spanish explorers and Scottish settlers are all part of the show. Salado Legends is performed at the Tablerock Amphitheatre twice in late July and once in early August, and you’ll need to plan ahead to ensure you get a seat. Salado Legends is just one of several events you can catch at the Tablerock Amphitheatre throughout the year, including the Fright Trail for Halloween and A Christmas Carol. Check out a full list of events here.

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Play 27 Gorgeous Holes of Golf Winding tree-lined fairways and the trickling waters of Salado Creek set the stage for an awesome round of golf at Mill Creek Country Club. Designed by worldrenowned course architect Robert Trent Jones, Jr., Mill Creek’s 27 holes will test your long and short game while also putting a huge smile on your face. You won’t have to wait long for one of the course’s highlights, the famous heart-shaped green on hole No. 3. The rest of your round takes you through some of the prettiest scenery in Central Texas, all while

you’re vying for bragging rights with your group. With multiple tee boxes, Mill Creek is accessible to players of all skill levels. Better yet, you can play all year thanks to our four seasons of sunshine. Can’t wait to hit the course? Book your tee time here. Our inspiring artists, friendly folks and wealth of one-of-a-kind experiences offers all you need for a remarkable getaway. Plan your visit here. ¦

SEE THE ORIGINAL ARTICLE.

CLICK HERE.

CITY OF SALADO Discover rich Lone Star State history, eclectic cultural flourishes and vibrant and artistic treasures in Salado, Texas.

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HOW TO SPEND A WEEKEND IN

SALADO BY: CHANTAL RICE 14

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NOVEMBER 2019

In the 1860s, the route that would become known as the Chisholm Trail, the major north-south passage out of Texas for livestock, was dusty, perilous and lonesome frontier land. But Texas cowmen and bone-weary stagecoach passengers found solace along the trail in the tiny town of Salado, Texas, so named by Spanish explorers centuries before for the salty mineral waters that flowed through the area. Indeed, it was the gurgling springs of the creek, along with the area’s tremendous oak and pecan trees, that made Salado a favored stomping and camping ground for Native Americans thousands of years before the Spanish arrived. Though Salado didn’t officially become a town until 1859, it’s said buffalo hunters erected a log cabin near the former Native American village in the

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1840s. Just two decades later, one of the town’s earliest settlers opened the Shady Villa Hotel on the former site of a Tonkawa village, and local lore claims such of-the-time dignitaries as Robert E. Lee, Sam Houston and General George Custer, along with cattle baron Charles Goodnight and even outlaw Jesse James found welcome respite at the boarding house, the latter of whom may have been attracted by the legend of Spanish gold hidden in a small cave on the property. In the early 1940s, Dion and Ruth Van Bibber purchased the old Shady Villa Hotel, restoring the building and renaming it the Stagecoach Inn, which became a famed landmark known for its charming hospitality. They also opened an on-site restaurant, where the day’s fare always included a

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unique take on hush puppies, as well as favorites like banana fritters and a meringue-embellished dessert known as the Strawberry Kiss. Throughout the decades, the Stagecoach Inn, a member of the Historic Hotels of America, became legendary, even gracing the pages of national publications like Life magazine and Time. But despite the hotel’s and town’s fascinating history, it’s Salado’s renaissance that beckons modern-day Texas travelers from near and far. As part of a multiphase renovation, the Stagecoach Inn is adding a pool bar adjacent to its newly refurbished pool, set to open this spring, as well as 16

a massive catering-and-banquet space and a retail building for local shops, both opening in the summer. While these additions enhance the overall property, it is the little details that abound at the Stagecoach Inn that render it so enchanting. The 48 guest rooms combine modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi and smart TVs with a more contemporary, refined and subtle Texas style you’d expect to find in more trendy locales like Marfa, Texas, rather than in a small town like Salado. Alongside thoughtfully chosen touches, including the addition of locally made artisan curios, the beautifully designed interiors and striking grounds would delight www.firstclasstours.net

NOVEMBER 2019

any finicky visitor. The semiprivate porches adorning each guest room, ornamented with canvas sling chairs and vibrant climbing vines and flora, and the palm-lined pool area are delightfully reminiscent of a 1950s-style motor court. These amusements, combined with the enchanting, historic air of the neighboring Stagecoach Inn restaurant—which features a modern menu of delectable cuisine, along with its cherished classics (The hush puppies, cast-iron pimento cheese dip and chicken-fried steak are must-try dishes!)—make even a day trip to Salado worth the easy hour drive north from Austin. But don’t make the trip just for the Stagecoach Inn; Salado, though home to only about 2,300 residents, flourishes with unexpected charm, history, culture, local artisans and public art, and plenty of entertaining activities, among them a visit to Salado Glassworks, a mystical shop where artist and Owner Gail Allard sells his stunning, delicate, colorful glass art pieces, but also welcomes visitors to try their own hands at this fiery craft through the shop’s regular experiential Blow Your Own events. With the help of an expert resident artist, you’ll create from scratch a magnificent work of glass art in the on-site workshop using specialty tools to shape, tweak, heat and form everything from glass heart paperweights to handblown glass bowls and even handblown glass beer mugs. It cannot be underscored enough how truly extraordinary this wondrous art experience is. Once you’ve had such a glass- and mind-blowing experience, it is clearly time for beer. Luckily, a variety of neighboring watering holes abound.

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And since Salado covers only about 2 miles and most must-visit spots are located within a several-block radius, it’s easy and quite enjoyable to walk among the galleries, eateries, bars and shops. Try a seasonal beer (or better yet, a flight of beer) at local craft-beer joint Barrow Brewing Company, housed in a former grain-and-feed warehouse, then trip on over to Lively Coffee House & Bistro for a scrumptious house-made open-face bagel topped with gourmet ingredients or a specialty sandwich and a fresh double espresso to help carry you on to an array of fun and funky antiques shops. There’s lots to discover and even more to enjoy in Salado. That’s probably why this small village is known as “a jewel in the crown of Texas.” Must-visit Spots in Salado, Texas • Stagecoach Inn • Salado Glassworks • Barrow Brewing Company • Lively Coffee House & Bistro • Ro Shaw Clay Studio • Salado Olive Oil Company • The Shed • Sugar Shack • Salado Antique Mall • Salado Sculpture Garden ¦

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Here’s Why You Need to Check Out This Former Stagecoach Stop You know you’re in Texas when Main Street is on the Chisholm Trail. 18

BY: VALERIE FRASER LUESSE

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The best way to experience tiny Salado, Texas, in southern Bell County is to stumble onto it. Cruising I-35 between Austin and Waco, look out your window and there it is—a little patch of Texas’ past, right off the interstate. This village grew up around Salado College, established in the mid-nineteenth century, but the spring waters of Salado Creek were attracting Native American tribes for hundreds of years before that—even for hundreds of years before the Spanish showed up. And Salado was a stagecoach stop before it was a town. Once the railroad bypassed it, Salado saw a decline, but

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it began a slow and steady comeback in 1940, when the Van Bibbers family bought the Shady Villa Hotel, which they renamed the Stagecoach Inn. You can still have lunch, dinner, and drinks there (WednesdaySunday), and a current renovation aims to open guestrooms sometime next year. With a population of just over 2,000, Salado is hardly a metropolis, but it has a thriving arts community that appeals to residents and visitors alike. The Texas State Commission on the Arts has designated Salado a state cultural district, and the community has attracted all kinds of creative talent, from sculptors, painters, and

potters, to writers, musicians, and actors. The Tablerock Amphitheater hosts productions year-round, and Salado’s Sculpture Garden is a popular spot in town. Shopping Historic downtown is loaded with shops and galleries. Stop by Salado Glassworks to see artists at work. The Shoppes on Main is a marketplace with 5,000 square feet of retail. Go vintage at Antique Rose of Bell, and find fashionforward women’s apparel at Christy’s of Salado, The Red Cactus, and Snickelbritches. Head to the Strawberry Patch for Texas specialties and gourmet coffee and Twenty-One Main for unique

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home accessories. Dining Salado has a surprising range of eateries for a small town. Locals flock to Barrow Brewing Co. and Chupacabra for craft beer; Alexander’s Distillery at Inn on the Creek, a restaurant and cocktail lounge named for a distillery that once stood on the grounds; The Shed, casual food and drink also on property at Inn on the Creek; Johnny’s Steaks & Bar-be-que; The Salado Patio for Mexican fare; The Range at The Barton House for upscale dining and craft cocktails; and McCain’s Bakery & Café. Snoozing You’ll find all kinds of B&Bs in Salado, from a historic mansion to charming cottages. Check out Inn on the Creek, Baines House Inn & Gallery, Yellow House Bed and Breakfast, and other properties in the Salado Visitors Guide. So You Want to Live There Sisters Melanie Kerchmeier

(broker/owner) and Sue Ellen Slagel (broker associate) work together to continue Century 21 Bill Bartlett, the Salado real estate company their father started 44 years ago. “Salado used to be considered a retirement community, but no more,” Slagel says. “I would bet that our median age is mid-40s. The reason we can sell Salado is that it has that small town, laid back, peaceful atmosphere. The minute you exit I-35 and drive into town, you feel calm. Your blood pressure goes down.” The town got a big boost from the completion of an I-35 expansion. Now that construction is no longer disrupting traffic, and the renovated highway is making it easier to travel the route from Austin to Waco to Dallas, Salado is booming. “Any decent home between $250,000 and $400,000 gets snapped up,” Slagel says. “And then we have properties with acreage that can go for over a million.”

Salado’s popular hangout, Slager says, is the area around Royal and Main Streets, where locals can hit Barrow Brewing Co. and Chupacabra for some refreshment and then ramble Peddler’s Alley, which is just a block from Salado Creek. “The people here are very welcoming,” she says. “And we have such a variety. There are locals who have lived here all their lives. There are others, like me, who left but decided to come back. And then we have residents who chose to move here—from as far away as California—because they want that small town life with convenient access to places like Dallas, San Antonio, and Houston. Our school superintendent is one of the best in the area—and he moved here from Plano because he wanted to live in a small town.” ¦ SEE THE ORIGINAL ARTICLE.

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HOW TO HAVE A PERFECT DAY IN SALADO, TEXAS BY: DANIELLE FRITZ

No matter the time of year, you can make good use of a free Saturday or Sunday by taking a day trip. Forty-five minutes north of Austin lies the village of Salado, a quaint town whose main street offers a variety of attractions that will interest visitors of any age. The street itself is only about one mile long, but browsing the shops and cafes can fill a whole day.

Where to Eat in Salado McCain’s Bakery & Cafe Main street has plenty of free parking spaces in front of shops, as well as larger lots near the north and south ends. Start your day with a hearty meal, then start walking. At McCain’s Bakery & Cafe, you’ll find lots of friendly locals enjoying mostly

traditional American fare, homemade kolaches, and other bakery items, for breakfast and lunch. 417 North Main, Salado, TX Lively Coffee House & Bistro Lively Coffee House & Bistro lies at the middle of main, tucked behind a shop called Magnolias (walk underneath a series

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of flags to find it). With its inviting atmosphere, this cafe is a respite from the heat and another opportunity to jump on the toast train. You can build your own toast, with a variety of sweet and savory toppings, ranging from Nutella to Brie. Sandwiches are available for those wanting a little more substance.

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21 North Main, Ste 4, Salado, TX Johnny’s Steaks and BBQ If you prefer barbecue with breakfast, Johnny’s Steaks and BBQ is on the other side of I-35. They have a full breakfast menu, but I recommend stopping there on the way home. Their cheeseburger on a homemade jalapeño cheddar bun will

guarantee you don’t get hungry heading south, especially when paired with crispy fried okra and blackberry cobbler. If visiting on a Saturday night, check the live music calendar. Recent concert headliners have included Pat Green and Gary Allan. 301 Thomas Arnold Rd., Salado, TX

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Where to Drink in Salado

or curated by the owners.

Chupacabra Craft Beer

Mud Pies Pottery

Walking along main street, you’re bound to get thirsty. Chupacabra Craft Beer features only Texas draft beers, with flights to aid indecisive drinkers. Not a beer connoisseur? Wines from different regions are available, as well. Bring your dog; bring your squad. This pooch-friendly hangout has ample seating and free popcorn, so everyone can hang out for a bit.

Mud Pies Pottery has been in business for over 20 years. Owner Titia Arledge showcases her own pottery and that of her students, from a university class she teaches. While you’re browsing stone bakeware and serving dishes, make sure to sample Sir Wigglesworth’s homemade fudge, too.

401 S. Main St., Ste. 105, Salado,TX

Ro Shaw Clay Studio offers functional ceramics, such as beer growlers perfect for filling up at Barrow Brewing Company across the street, as well as individual raku and wood art pieces. Open studio wheel sessions and scheduled classes

Things to See and Do in Salado Every shop along main street has its own unique vibe. Locally-owned and locally-loved, you’ll find products personally made

18 N. Main St., Salado, TX Ro Shaw Clay Studio

are available for those interested in learning the craft or needing a fun date idea. #2 Peddlers Alley, Salado, TX Salado Glassworks Salado Glassworks hosts their popular Blow-YourOwn events alongside their gallery, which showcases custom pieces created by Gail Allard and Aaron Gist. Reservations for events can be made online, and aspiring artists can blow their own glasses and mugs in September, pumpkins in October, and ornaments in December. Reservations go quickly, but if you’re not able to get a ticket, you can purchase products in the gallery. #1 Peddlers Alley, Salado, TX

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Oo la la Gifts Several shops, such as Oo la la Gifts, showcase a Sirena Shop designation. The Salado Sirena Shops consist of independent retailers who are just a little off the beaten path of main street, and have formed an alliance to support each other through customer patronage. Each shop gives customers a complimentary necklace or charm with purchase, along with offering excellent merchandise and customer service. Lisa Jackens, owner of Oo la la, is part of the relatively new Sirena Shop program. The name is a nod to the actual Sirena of Salado (an Indian mermaid from local legend whose sculpture is located by Salado Creek). 555 Pace Park, Salado, TX Salado Creek Troy Kelley’s bronze www.firstclasstours.net

sculpture of Sirena welcomes visitors to Salado Creek, which intersects main street. With picnic tables and shallow waters, it’s a great place to take a break from shopping. Don’t be afraid to act like the locals and take off your shoes. I saw several families in the creek with water chairs and rafts, so consider packing yours, too! Chalk Ridge Falls Park For more privacy, drive 10 minutes north to Chalk Ridge Falls Park in Belton. One exit north of main street, go west on FM 2484 for about one mile; turn right onto FM 1670 north for about 3.5 miles; then right again at the park entrance. After driving into the park, a parking lot will appear, and the trailhead will be right next to it. Only a quarter mile of hiking will lead you to a small fall, and the shady trails and relatively quiet

atmosphere will be the perfect ending to your day. 5600 FM1670, Belton, TX Nearly every block of main street in Salado houses a locally-owned eatery, brewery, gallery, or boutique. I spent a day browsing just a few blocks’ worth and listening to the business owners tell their stories. I’m already planning a return trip (for a weekend, not just a Saturday) to explore the rest. If you haven’t taken the short drive up north yet, expect to be pleasantly surprised! With a variety of festivals and events, Salado is worth the 45-minute trip. Just be aware that shops close around 5 p.m. on most days, and some are closed on Sunday. ¦ SEE THE ORIGINAL ARTICLE.

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Just a short 2 hour drive from Houston, Golden Nugget Lake Charles combines the glitz and glamour of

WEEKLY TRIPS AS LOW AS $17.00 Las Vegas withDAY the hospitality and charm of the South – creating an exceptional one-of-a-kind gaming and entertainment destination in Louisiana.

Since it’s unveiling in December 2014, the 242-acre casino and resort has attracted guests from all WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY, & SUNDAY! neighboring states. The Golden Nugget name is synonymous with exceptional service and luxury, including TICKETS START AT $17 deluxe accommodations, 15 restaurants and lounges, a private beach and marina, a championship golf FRIDAY & SATURDAY! TICKETS START AT $18 course and an innovative casino floor.

Ride with First Class Tours to The Golden Nugget Lake Charles departing Terminal and Eastex Terminal Located off of interstate 210, Lake Charlesfrom is theFM fifth1960 installment of the iconic Golden Nuggeteach brand which Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday! is owned and operated by Houston-based restaurant, hospitality and gaming group Landry’s Inc. The

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• Pool complex with swim-up bar, lazy river Poker room and waterslide 740 luxury rooms and suites, with a tower addition in 2017 NEW TRIPS COMING SOON • Shopping promenade 18-hole championship golf course 30,000 square-feet of meeting and convention space $74 PP - DBLE OCCUP • Arcade • A-list entertainment Wedding gazebo $149 PP - SINGLE OCCUP Marina with dockage up to 206 feet

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Ride with First Class Tours to The Golden Nugget Lake Charles, departing from FM 1960 Terminal and Eastex Terminals

G A M B L I N G CLICKPHERERFOROTICKET B AVAILABILITY L E M ? 26

P L E

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New for 2017!

NOVEMBER 2019

B US TOUR S PACKAG ES DAY TRIP PACKAGES (Minimum 5 Hour Stay)

Package A • Golden Nugget will pay $10 per passenger • Receive $5 Free Slot Play or $10 Food Credit • Group leader receives $15 Free Slot Play or $25 Food Credit *No minimum passenger count required.

Package B • Golden Nugget will pay $500 for Bus Transportation • Receive $5 Free Slot Play or $10 Food Credit

GOLDEN NUGGET TRIP • Group leader receives $15 Free Slot Play or $25 Food Credit *Minimum 40 passenger counter required.

Package C

• Golden Nugget will pay $1,000 for Bus Transportation • Group leader receives $15 Free Slot Play or $25 Food Credit *Minimum 50 passenger count required.

*All passengers must be 21 or older. No deposit required. Any payment made by Golden Nugget will be sent to the approved motor coach company. Group leaders are not eligible to receive payment.

From upscale to casual, Golden Nugget Lake Charles also boasts a collection of Landry’s, Inc. awardwinning and nationally recognized restaurants that cater to every palate. Grotto Ristorante, Saltgrass Steak House, Landry’s Seafood House, Claim Jumper, Lillie’s Asian Cuisine, Cadillac Mexican Kitchen & Tequila Bar and the crown jewel of steakhouses – Vic & Anthony’s – are just a few of the impressive selections. Guests can also peruse through a shopping promenade featuring all of the latest fashions from designers like Tommy Bahama and Michael Kors, catch a game of golf, or bask in the sun at H20 – an opulent Vegasstyle pool, swim-up bar and lounge. To learn more about available Bus Tour Packages to Golden Nugget Lake Charles, please call 337.508.7221 or email BusTours@gnlcm.com. 2550 GOLDEN NUGGET BLVD.

A S E

C A L L

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LAKE CHARLES. LA 70601

GOLDENNUGGETLC.COM

1 . 8 7 7 . 7 7 0 . S T O P 27

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As a local, it is not at all uncommon to be asked “What is there to do in Galveston?” To me, it seems like such an odd question. The question really should be more like “What ISN’T there to do in Galveston?” Galveston Island has a diversity of entertainment and leisure options that has made it one of the top beach destinations along the Gulf Coast. I think it’s the fact that Galveston has so much more than just sand and water to lure people across The Causeway. Let’s look at just Downtown Galveston – the epicenter of entertainment, food, drink and social activity in the city. So if you’re looking for something fun to do and need a little nudge for ideas, here’s a quick list of the top 10 things to do in Downtown Galveston. And I offer this one disclaimer – this is in no way intended to be inclusive. It is not the result of any survey. This is merely my list of top 10 things I recommend to folks based on living here 21 years and visiting the island city my entire life.

1. Shop If you’re fond of unique and interesting items for yourself or gifts for others, downtown Galveston is where you need to spend some time with Hendley Market as your first stop. Be sure to check the store for current hours – they tend to change from time to time. But it is worth the effort for the spectacular collection of unusual items you’ll find. Nativity scenes

HIDDEN GAMBLIN HITS RETIREES HAR BY: DANA ANSPACH

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NOVEMBER 2019

Gambling losses do not impact your tax return nearly as much as gambling winnings. Losses only partially offset the tax effects of gambling winnings. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a regular gambler in retirement, this means your fun can cost you thousands more in taxes and increased Medicare Part B premiums each and every year. I call this the hidden gambling tax. Even a win of a few thousand can have unintended effects, costing you more in taxes than what you won - even if you have gambling losses to offset it. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s take a look at how gambling winnings and losses impact the rest of your tax return by going through these four steps: 1. Required reporting 2. Treatment of gambling losses versus gains 3. How gambling winnings affect your modified adjusted gross income

NG TAX RD www.firstclasstours.net

4. How an increased modified adjusted gross income causes you to pay more tax Required Reporting of Gambling Winnings Casinos are required to report gambling winnings if they exceed a certain limit ($1,200 of slot machine winnings for

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example). Gambling winnings get reported on the first page of your tax return on line 21.

•

$1,500 or more in keno winnings (amount can be reduced by the amount of your wager)

What amount of gambling winning must be reported? TheIRS says all gambling winnings must be reported on your tax return, and if amounts exceed limits below they are reported on Form W-2G:

•

$5,000 or more in poker tournament winnings (amount can be reduced by the amount of your wager)

•

$600 or more on betting if that is at least 300 times your bet (amount can be reduced by the amount of your wager)

•

$1,200 or more at a slot machine or bingo game (amount not reduced by the amount of your wager)

Treatment of Gambling Losses vs. Gains

Once you report gambling winnings, you can also then report gambling losses. Gambling losses get claimed as an itemized deduction, in section 28 in “Other Miscellaneous Deductions”. You are only allowed to claim losses up to the amount of winnings. This means if the casino reports $50,000 of winnings, but throughout the year you gambled a total of $60,000, winning back $50,000 but losing $10,000, you can’t claim that $10,000 loss on your tax return.

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NOVEMBER 2019

In order to claim losses, you must keep gambling records and receipts. Yes, you do get to deduct the losses so you don’t pay income taxes on the winnings, but that is only part of the story. The rest of the story has to do with how gambling winnings affect your Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI). How Gambling Winnings Affect Your MAGI As gambling winnings are reported via the first page of your tax return

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(with total winnings being reported before they are offset by losses) this has the effect of increasing your MAGI. Your MAGI is calculated before you get the benefit of reducing it by any itemized deductions such as gambling losses. So gambling winnings increase your MAGI - even if you didn’t actually win anything when comparing winnings to losses. Other tax calculations are compared to your MAGI to determine whether you pay more tax in other areas or lose out on some

deductions. An increased MAGI can mean you pay more in other areas and/or lose out on some deductions. How MAGI Affects Other Tax-Related Items Here are some of the items that MAGI affects: •

Your eligibility to make a Roth IRA contribution (or deductible IRA contribution if you are also a participant in a company sponsored retirement plan). Too much MAGI and you are not eligible to make

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a Roth IRA contribution. •

•

The amount of your Social Security benefits subject to taxation. A larger MAGI means more of your Social Security can be included as taxable income. The amount of Medicare Part B premiums that you pay. Too much MAGI and you will pay a larger Medicare Part B premium. Phaseouts of exemptions and itemized deductions. Higher MAGI means you may lose some of your exemptions and deductions. Applicability of the 3.8% Medicare surtax on investment income. If your MAGI is high enough, you will pay an additional tax on investment income. Your eligibility for a tax credit/subsidy for the purpose of purchasing health insurance. If your MAGI remains low enough you may qualify for a tax credit. Gambling winnings could make you ineligible for this.

Let’s take a look at an example of how gambling 32

winnings affected some of the items above for one retired man in his early 70’s. Example of the Gambling Tax in Retirement David (name changed for privacy) is in his early 70s and lost his wife many years ago. He still works part-time in his business which is now primarily run by his son, and by the looks of his tax return, I am guessing he spends the rest of his time at the local casino. Why would I guess this? Last year he reported over $550,000 of gambling winnings on his tax return. Lucky guy, right? Not really. He reported the same amount in losses. David’s MAGI would have been less than $80,000 without gambling. Instead, it was over $630,000. Rather than paying Medicare Part B premiums at $105 a month he’ll be paying $335 a month; an increase of $2,760 per year. In 2013 this MAGI level caused him to lose about $11,400 of his itemized deductions, costing him another $2,850 in taxes (at the 25% marginal rate).

each year in taxes. This hidden gambling tax can affect both lower income and higher income retirees but in different ways. For lower-income retirees, a hidden gambling tax can occur because increased MAGI increases the amount of your Social Security benefits subject to taxation and reduces your eligibility for a tax credit on health insurance. For higher-income retirees, the hidden gambling tax may come in the form of a loss of deductions due to the phaseout limits, increased Medicare Part B premiums, and/or the applicability of the 3.8% Medicare surtax on investment income. Keep in mind, a welldesigned withdrawal strategy in retirement can help make sure you don’t pay any more taxes than you have to - but one trip to the casino can throw the plan off track. ¦

SEE THE ORIGINAL ARTICLE.

CLICK HERE.

Even if his gambling habit is a wash, it will be costing David thousands extra www.firstclasstours.net

NOVEMBER 2019

OVERNIGHT CASINO TRIPS WITH FIRST CLASS PERKS

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December 15, 2019

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14 BEST PARKS & NATIONAL PARKS IN TEXAS BY: VACATIONIDEA.COM

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NOVEMBER 2019

Texas boasts some of the most spectacular scenery in America, so it should come as no surprise that the state is also home to some incredible national parks, trails, and monuments. Ranging from fascinating monuments steeped in history to remote, mountainous parks with plenty of hiking opportunities, here are the best parks in the state. 1.Big Bend National Park Despite being one of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest and most beautiful national parks, Big Bend National Park is also one of the least visited. It encompasses more than 1200 square miles and stretches across a wide variety of terrain, including the Chisos mountain range, part of the Chihuahuan Desert, and the watery Rio

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Grande. Most areas of the park can only be accessed on foot; there are more than 150 miles of hiking trails to choose from, ranging in difficulty from easy to very strenuous. Because of the parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s isolated location and large size, visitors are advised to spend at least one night in the area.

park to be had from the top of the mountain. Other popular activities in the park include camping, bird watching, and visiting the beautiful McKittrick Canyon. The park is best explored on foot or by horseback, although there are some roads that are accessible by four-wheel-drive vehicles.

2.Guadalupe Mountains National Park

3.Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument

Located in the Chihuahuan Desert, Guadalupe Mountains National Park holds the honor of being home to the four tallest mountains in Texas, including the famous Guadalupe Peak. Hiking Guadalupe Peak is by far the most popular activity with visitors; the hike takes between six and eight hours round-trip, and there are excellent views of the

Tucked away in a remote area of the Texas Panhandle, the Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument was formerly an important source of flint for the indigenous population. The monument itself can only be viewed as part of a ranger-led guided tour; the tour takes approximately hours, and it involves a moderately difficult onemile hike with a large

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number of stairs. Tours only take place during the summer months, and reservations are advised. However, the park’s Visitor Center is open year-round, and it offers museum visits, flintknapping presentations, and a short film about the monument’s history. 4.Amistad National Recreation Area Encompassing a beautiful swathe of land around the Amistad Reservoir, a dam on the Rio Grande, the Amistad National Recreation Area is an excellent destination for outdoor recreation no matter what the time of year. The park is bestknown as a water sports destination; the reservoir

is perfect for boating, swimming, and fishing, and it’s also home to an extensive system of underwater caves that can be explored by experienced scuba divers. Unlike many other national parks, the park also offers the opportunity to hunt during certain times of the year. There are also five campgrounds in the park, all of which are open yearround. 5.Big Thicket National Preserve Also a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Big Thicket National Preserve was created to help protect the incredible biodiversity of southeastern Texas. The

park consists of fifteen separate units, and it’s notable for encompassing nine distinct ecosystems, including peaceful pine forests, blackwater swamps, and watery bayous. There are approximately 40 miles of hiking trails for visitors to enjoy; these trails range in length from a third of a mile to eighteen miles, and some are handicap accessible. Other popular activities in the park include canoeing and kayaking down the many creeks and rivers, backcountry camping, and hunting and trapping. 6.Chamizal National Memorial Situated right next to the border between the United

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NOVEMBER 2019

States and Mexico, the Chamizal National Memorial was established in honor of a 1963 treaty that served as the resolution to a border dispute between the two countries. An on-site museum has displays about the treaty and about other important historical aspects of U.S.-Mexico relations, and free ranger-led walking tours of the grounds are offered on a regular basis. Other amenities in the park include walking trails, picnic areas with tables, a gift shop, an art gallery, and a theater that often hosts live music performances and cultural events. 7.El Camino Real de los Tejas

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Formerly an important 18th-century thoroughfare created by the Spanish colonists, El Camino Real de los Tejas is a National Historic Trail that stretches across Texas for 2,580 miles from the Mexican border all the way into Louisiana. There are plenty of fascinating things to see and do along the trail, many of which can be reached by car. Highlights include a Spanish mission offering interpretive tours, a former Governor’s Palace, and a scenic lookout point. Hours of operation vary from site to site. No admission fee is charged to explore the sale, but some individual attractions require payment.

8.Fort Davis NHS The Fort Davis National Historic Site was previously one of the most important military posts in western Texas, and now it’s a fascinating reminder of the key role the military played in the settlement of the West. There are several buildings for visitors to explore, including a a barracks, a hospital, and a commissary, and there is also a short but steep trail that leads to a lookout point over the entire complex. A special ranger’s program is offered for children between the ages of 4 and 14; the program takes between 90 minutes and 2 hours to complete, and adult

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supervision is required. 9.Lake Meredith National Rec Area Centered around a 10,000acre man-made reservoir, the Lake Meredith National Recreation Area is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and water sports like wake boarding and water skiing. Boats are available for rent in the park if needed, and there are several boat ramps for visitors to use free of charge. There are also a handful of hiking trails, some of which boast stunning views of the lake and the surrounding area. Camping is allowed anywhere in the park for up to fourteen consecutive days, but fires are only

permitted at the park’s designated campgrounds. 10.Lyndon B Johnson NHP Created in honor of the 36th President of the United States, the Lyndon B Johnson National Historic Park offers some fascinating insight into the life of one of the country’s most important historical figures. Visitors can explore the property in their own cars; a driving permit can be obtained from the Visitor Center free of charge. A highlight of the experience is stopping at the Texas White House for a special ranger-led tour, but other features of the property include the former president’s boyhood

home, a settlement that was established by his grandfather and greatuncle, and the Johnson family cemetery. 11.Padre Island National Seashore Separating the Gulf of Mexico from Laguna Madre, one of the world’s only hypersaline lagoons, Padre Island National Seashore is a 70-mile-long stretch of undeveloped barrier island that serves as a nature preserve and a recreation destination. Popular activities here include canoeing and kayaking, fishing, camping, and simply strolling along the beach. The area is an important sea turtle nesting

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NOVEMBER 2019

ground, and in the summer months visitors will have the opportunity to watch baby sea turtles be released into the wild. The park is also home to more than 380 species of bird, making it a popular destination for birdwatching enthusiasts. 12.Palo Alto Battlefield NHS Located just outside the city of Brownsville, the Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park was established to preserve the site of an important battle between American and Mexican troops in 1846. Plenty of information about the battle and about the Mexican War in general can be found in the Visitor Center, which offers interactive exhibits, a collection of historical artifacts and military uniforms, and the opportunity to watch a short

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film. The park is open yearround, but the best time to visit is between December and March, as this is when special guided programs are offered. 13.Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River The Rio Grande stretches for 1,865 miles between Colorado and the Gulf of Mexico, and the Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River is a park that protects a 191-mile stretch of the Rio Grande where it runs through Texas along the Mexican border. This stretch of the river is perfectly suited to float trips; there are three canyons to choose from, with both single and multi-day trip options. Visitors who donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have their own equipment can rent it from a local company or take a guided trip, which should include all equipment, transportation, and food.

14.San Antonio Missions NHP Home to four of the five Spanish frontier missions found in the San Antonio area, the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The best way to get around the park is by car; the missions are all located approximately two and a half miles apart, and free parking is available at each one. The missions are also connected by a designated walking and cycling path that runs alongside the San Antonio River, and 24-hour bicycle rentals are available at each mission site. All of the missions can be visited free of charge. ÂŚ SEE THE ORIGINAL ARTICLE.

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8 CASINO LIFE HAC WILL MAKE YOU A PLAYER BY: KEVIN HORRIDGE

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NOVEMBER 2019

CKS THAT A RICHER

Casinos are exciting places and guarantee a classy and memorable evening of adult fun. However, they can also be very dangerous for your wallet if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know how to protect your capital. In this article we list our top 8 casino life hacks that will make you a smarter and more confident gambler. 1 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Learn card counting and other blackjack strategies Casinos frown upon it and discourage players from learning to count cards.

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However there’s nothing illegal about it and the worst that can happen is being asked to leave the blackjack table if the casino suspects you’re doing it. Many people have reliably won large amounts of money using card counting systems like Hi-Low and Omega II. There are also plenty of other systems developed by pros that will increase your chances of winning when learned correctly. 2 – Throw dice at craps using an underhand motion Craps is the only game where the casino trusts the player to handle the dice. This can be used to your advantage by learning to throw the dice using a specific motion developed by Dominic “The Dominator” LoRiggio. He says that players should aim to avoid rolling a seven and that they can achieve this by holding the dice in such a manner that no two sides add up to a seven. The dice are then thrown using an underhand motion, which makes them land flat on the table and stops them from rolling about. 3 – Take advantage of dealer error As human beings, dealers are prone to the same

distractions and errors of judgement that casinos try to force on their customers. This comes particularly useful in games like blackjack, where the dealer has to mentally calculate whether they should draw another card or stand. Players have tried many ways to confuse dealers and cause them to make mistakes, including: talking loudly, putting on an intimidating look, flirting, and showing a generous amount of skin. 4 – Stalk the slot machines to see which ones are about to pay big Slot stalks wander about the casino taking note of how well or how badly slot players are doing. When they find a game that hasn’t paid in quite a while, they pounce on it and start working the machine as soon as the previous player leaves. This strategy stems from the belief in payout cycles, whereby slot games alternate between periods of returning losing combinations and winning ones. The most popular slot games among stalkers have standalone progressive jackpots which will often payout those jackpots once they have reached certain limits. 5 – Take full advantage of

casino offers You should also take advantage of comps and other freebies in landbased casinos. If they have a player’s card, then make sure to sign up for one. The same applies for online casinos, where players are offered several weekly bonuses and other promotions. These offers increase the amount of risk capital you have available for free, thus you can play for longer and improve your chances of hitting the jackpot. 6 – Don’t play Keno Keno offers the worst deal for players. In some casinos, the house enjoys a 35% edge and it is virtually impossible to match all twenty numbers on a 20-spot ticket. Unless you really enjoy the company of other Keno players and the social atmosphere in the lounge, you’re better off spending your money elsewhere. 7 – Get free training online It might sound like common sense, but many new players sadly ignore it: always make sure you know the rules of the game you’re playing. Thankfully, you can play and study all kinds of casino games risk-free

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NOVEMBER 2019

thanks to online free play versions of real-money games. These websites can become your training ground and laboratory, as you experiment with various betting strategies and generally become more familiar with the game before you bet real money. 8 – Ruthlessly track the time and money you spend at the casino Have you ever notices that casinos don’t have clocks anywhere? This sneaky tactic is used to make players lose track of time and trick them into playing for longer periods

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of time. The use of flashing lights, sounds, attractive waiters and dealers, and complimentary drinks are also part of the casinos’ strategy to disorient players. It’s imperative that you check the time regularly, possibly even set yourself a reminder to let you know when it’s time to leave. The same goes with money, where you should keep track of your wins and losses and have a set limit of how much money you’re prepared to lose and when you’ve won enough. Remember to take regular breaks, possibly in a quiet area like

the bathrooms where you can re-focus, and avoid drinking more booze than you can handle. With these eight tips you’re already far ahead of the vast majority players who don’t give a second thought about practical strategies they could use to win more money and cut down their losses. Now you’re prepared to step into the casino and stroll down the lobby in your tux or evening dress with the confidence of a real gambling pro. ¦ SEE THE ORIGINAL ARTICLE.

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HOW TO LEAVE A CASINO A WINNER: A PLAYER’S GUIDE BY: KEVIN HORRIDGE

Casinos, as the old saying goes, are not built on winners; and yet, there are people who leave them with cash in their hands, and you could be one of them. While we certainly can’t guarantee you a winning session, we can provide you with some tips to turn the tides of good fortune in

your favor. It’s a recipe that includes awareness, experimentation, and, yes, a little bit of discipline. And while it might take some practice to master our methods, we can guarantee it’s a heck of a lot more fun to finish a gaming session, whether online or land-based, in the black, than it is to walk

out wondering how you’re going to tip the valet or buy groceries when you go bust. With that in mind, we offer a few simple but practical tips to put the odds in your favor.

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NOVEMBER 2019

Find the Games You Win At This isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t a super scientific theory, but empirical evidence seems to demonstrate that some people just tend to win more playing certain games than others. If you enjoy slots, try several varieties before you label yourself a loser; you may discover you

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simply hit more often in one game than another. While this may be illogical, if it ends up bringing you home more bacon, who cares whether it makes sense or not? Remember that even within a game genre, such as poker, roulette, slots, blackjack, etc, there are many sub-genres, and you may do better at some than

others. casinonightPay Attention to the Tides of Luck Very few people never ever win anything at any time in their casino ventures. The secret is recognizing a win and leaving with it. How do you do that, you ask? Again, this is an imperfect science,

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and one with which you may have to do some trial and error. One thing’s for sure though: leaving a gaming session even $10 up is a whole lot better than leaving it $100 (or hundreds or thousands of dollars, euros or pounds) down. Which brings us to our next point. Don’t Get Greedy Greed is undoubtedly the #1 reason most people leave casinos not only not a winner, but most often, an actual downand-out loser,muttering to themselves. They win a little, but they decide it’s not enough. Sometimes they even win more than that, but it’s still not enough. At some point, you need to decide to be content with your win, or we promise you, you won’t have one anymore.

Understand the Lures Casinos don’t make money when you go home a winner. They’d rather spend a little bit to keep you there so they can recoup some of your good luck, so be aware of all the many ways they have to do it. We’re not saying there’s anything nefarious about offering meal or room comps, or player rebuy bonuses online; just suggesting you be aware of why it’s being done. Casinos, whether brick-and-mortar or on the net, know that sooner or later, your winning streak will end, and they want to keep you there until it does. Weigh Small Wins Versus Big Losses Not taking a small win when you get one isn’t just a matter of missing out on

$20 or $50 or $100 in free money; it often means, when your luck turns, that you do what is known as “chasing” in gambling jargon: you continue to freefall gamble until you not only have lost your small win and original buy in, but much, much more. So it’s wise to consider that a small win may actually be bigger than you think, if you weigh it against the potential for losing a whole lot more than you meant to when you started your gambling session. Keep these tips in mind the next time you gamble online or visit a casino. Because, yes, it’s entertainment, but it’s more entertaining to win than to lose. ¦ SEE THE ORIGINAL ARTICLE.

CLICK HERE.

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NOVEMBER 2019

Retirement

sets you free.

A MOTORCOACH

helps make it

The best it can

possibly be. The Good Life Starts Here!

Welcome to the next generation of retirement! A retirement designed for those who have a passion for living, for fun and for spending their best years with those they love the most. Nothing compares to the experiences available on a motorcoach. From local sightseeing to a week on the road, motorcoaches offer the flexibility, comfort, and amenities that will make your next trip the best trip. Motorcoaches are a great way to make the most of your golden years and we look forward to the chance to welcome you aboard one of our modern coaches and wow you with all we have to offer.

GoMotorcoach Make the Smart Move! Safe | Green | Efficient | Affordable | Fun

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TAKE AN ECO FRIENDLY VACATION â&#x20AC;&#x201C; LOW IMPACT TRAVEL TIPS

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BY: AKSHATA MEHTA

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NOVEMBER 2019

Every summer, millions of people world-wide travel far from home to enjoy holidays, vacations and family visits. All this moving around uses a lot of resources and generates a lot of pollution. Unfortunately, most travel today is far from environmentally friendly.

in order to enjoy and appreciate nature (and accompanying cultural features, both past and present) that promote conservation, have a low visitor impact and provide for beneficially active socioeconomic involvement of local peoples.”

Here are some simple travel tips on how to have a great vacation with a smaller, more planet-friendly footprint…

From a traveler’s standpoint, ecotourism includes sensitivity towards, and appreciation of, local cultures and biodiversity. Such travelers practice conscientious, low-impact behavior.

Plan for Eco-Tourism The World Conservation Union (IUCN) defines ecotourism as: “Environmentally responsible travel to natural areas,

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Here are some travel tips on how to have a great vacation with a smaller, more planetfriendly footprint...Most people forego even trying

to plan an eco-friendly trip, because they are under the misconception that traveling green involves sacrificing too many “regular” activities— especially those that make holidays fun. However, there are many ecotourism companies all over the world offering fun tours and trips (sometimes to incredible places that can only be seen using low impact transport like walking, bicycle, canoe, or horseback) Consider booking an ecotourism trip if you want to have a fun vacation with the least impact on the surrounding environment. You can find more

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information about ecotourism and companies that offer eco-friendly tours and trips at the International Ecotourism Society. Reduce Your Transportation Footprint The increased, unnatural level of carbon in todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s atmosphere is causing climate change, which is indirectly responsible for severe weather phenomena and natural disasters. It is also making our oceans (that

support all life) more acidic every year. On a micro-level, the imbalanced levels of gases in the atmosphere is bad for our health and that of every living thing on the planet, creating a plethora of problems. Green Your Air Travel Although one might not think it, travel is one of the leading contributors of carbon emissions. A roundtrip coach ticket from

New York to San Francisco accounts for 2 metric tons of carbon dioxideâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;compare that with the average American, whose annual carbon footprint is roughly 19 metric tons. In fact, the aviation industry alone accounts for 4-9% of the total climate change impact of human activity. The graph below shows a comparison of carbon dioxide intensity of passenger transport.

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NOVEMBER 2019

As you can see, traveling by air has an exponentially higher impact on the environment than other forms of passenger travel. While it may not be possible to forego flying altogether, you can choose specific flight options to reduce your impact: Take-offs and landings are what hurt the environment most, so choosing a nonstop flight is better for the environment (and your

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patience!). Choose to fly economy, as more people per plane means fewer emissions per person. Many airlines now have carbon offset programs, where they try to compensate for the airplaneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s emissions by investing in carbon reduction projects and initiatives. Supporting these airlines is another good option.

If your airline doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t offer carbon offsets, ClimateCare. com and TerraPass.com will offset the carbon created by your travel (and other activities) by planting trees and other environmental projects. Choose More Efficient Vehicles When possible, choose to use greener modes of transportation when traveling. Ships, trains, buses, and even cars (when there

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is more than one passenger) are more efficient than planes. If you are renting a vehicle, make sure it is a hybrid or electric. These will use less fuel, and won’t pollute the surroundings as much. Take in the Scenery The best option—especially for travel within a small vicinity—is walking or renting a bicycle. It’s relatively easy for governments to make cities amicable to cyclists, and the number of bikefriendly cities is rapidly increasing. Walking, on the other hand, is quite enjoyable while traveling; it keeps off the holiday weight, and really allows you to closely interact with a particular place and culture. Choosing Eco-Friendly Accommodations Thankfully, governments and private corporations have taken a renewed interest in ecotourism, and promoting greener accommodations for travelers. This comes as no surprise; according to Jos Schapp, a leading authority in hotel technology, energy conservation is one of the most important technologies to consider in 2017. Greener Lodging

There are many hotels, motels, inns, B&Bs, and resorts that offer eco-friendly accommodations. These are often denoted by a seal of approval. For the U.S., seals include LEED certification from the U.S. Green Building Council, which judges on sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, material selection, indoor environmental quality, and innovation in design. Green Globe and Green Seal offer other reputable U.S. certifications. International certifications include EarthCheck, Rainforest Alliance, Green Key and Green Tourism. Staying at a hotel that is certified in this manner is a great way to ensure minimal impact to the environment. During your stay, there are a few additional things you can do to minimize your environmental impact: Request the hotel housekeeping to not change your linens on a daily basis, as this reduces water wastage and combats energy loss through laundry. Avoid using plastic cups and bottles — drinking water and hot drinks from glassware reduces waste, and is also better for your health since

glass is BPA free. Whenever you leave the room, make sure your electricity is turned off. Buy Local to Support Local People As we all know, the “go local” movement has revolutionized the food industry, with a focus on consuming food grown by local farmers and ranchers. So, similarly, another thing to consider while on holiday is how “local” the lodging of your choice is— including food sourcing, infrastructure, and staff—as it will determine the impact it has on the community. Spending your money on locally produced food, goods and services supports the local economy of the place you are visiting, and is also very energy efficient (due to negated shipping and transportation emissions). By supporting locally owned businesses, you will be helping a local community sustain itself efficiently. Travel Activities Eco-Friendly Tour Groups and Sightseeing Every place has a unique set of activities for tourists and locals alike. Most people tend to choose the cheapest option without realizing the

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true cost of their choices. Paying a little extra for an eco-friendly tour can be extremely beneficial to the environment, and will also leave you more educated about the locale. Finding an eco-friendly tour or tour guide is easy; they will usually openly advertise that their services are conducted in a sustainable manner. But what does it mean to be more sustainable? This could mean that the tour group is smaller, the transport used is energyefficient, or that the tour will highlight conservation efforts, as well as unique local environmental concerns. Be it walking or cycling tours, I find that eco-friendly tours are more holistically satisfying than large commercial group tours. Consider participating in activities that get you closer to nature, and educate you about local landscapes, customs and traditions. Correctly Disposing of Garbage This massive dump in Lebanon has partially collapsed into the Mediterranean Sea several times. Disposing of your trash correctly is one of the

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simplest things you can do to make your travels greener; this is an especially important consideration in developing countries. Since many developing countries might not have effective garbage disposal systems in place, going the extra mile to ensure our litter isn’t strewn about can make a world of a difference. After tourists leave a country, it is the locals that have to deal with their waste, so it’s important to dispose of it in the right manner. Ask locals about recycling centers, or consult your hotel about their waste disposal techniques and try to follow best practices in terms of your garbage. Whether traveling or not, proper and ethical waste disposal is one of the best and easiest ways to go green. Respecting Local Flora and Fauna While ecotourism promotes traveling to natural places, it is important that tourists do so in a respectful manner. While engaging in activities that involve being outdoors, such as hiking or birdwatching, you need to be sure you are not encroaching and endangering another species’ habitat.

Always avoid interactive animal experiences, as these stem from an industry that supports the unwarranted capture, displacement and torture of wild animals to make them compliant. These sorts of activities should be boycotted in favor of more natural ones, where animals aren’t forcefully domesticated just for the entertainment of humans. Water Activities Considering about 71% of the earth’s surface is covered in water, it is likely that your travels will take you to new lakes, rivers, and beaches. As a scuba diver, I urge you to take up environmentally friendly practices while engaging in any sort of water activities. There are many important eco-friendly tips to keep in mind when participating in water activities: Most sunscreens contain chemicals that can harm coral and other reef life, as well as your health. Use only Ocean Safe or Reef Safe®, non-toxic sunscreens. (I like this one.) Don’t touch coral while diving or snorkeling because oils from your skin can destroy entire coral colonies by destroying their protective mucous membranes.

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Buy or rent eco-friendly and non invasive equipment for water sports like surfing. Explore inland water using non-motorized boats— like kayaks and canoes, as opposed to speed boats. Avoid deep sea fishing, as this often really harms the already fragile underwater world. To take your conservation efforts up a notch, try and eat only locally and

sustainably fished seafood when you travel, so as to mitigate the destruction of coral reefs and ocean ecosystems. Simple Choices Make a Big Impact At first, becoming an ecotourist may seem overwhelming—especially due to the high level of constant awareness it seems to require. However, trust me when I say that making environmentally friendly

choices will become second nature (and even fun) to you after traveling responsibly the first few times. Ultimately, simple choices, like the ones listed above, can have a huge impact in changing the way we travel—and, in turn, can help us improve and sustain our environment. ¦ SEE THE ORIGINAL ARTICLE.

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PARAGON RESORT

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A BEGINNERS GUIDE T NAVIGATING THE CAS WITHOUT LOSING YO BY: MARK GRUETZE

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The black-haired woman nervously thumbed through her purse as she took the end seat at the blackjack table. She pulled out three $20 bills and gingerly placed them on the felt, confessing to the dealer this was her first time playing the game. “No problem,” he assured her. This was a friendly table, he said, and he or the other players would be happy to help a novice. She put out the $10 minimum bet and was dealt a two-card 20 for her first hand. Her blackjack fling started with a victory. “You know what you should do now?” the dealer asked, barely suppressing a smile as he prepared to deliver the punch line. “Run! Run for the hills while you’re ahead!”

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Many people making their first casino trip or trying out a new game are like that uneasy blackjack player. They want to gamble but they’re not exactly sure what to do. Finding yourself amid the thousands of games, dealing with the noise, lights and other casino distractions, and ogling the vast amounts of money and chips can intimidate anyone. Just bear in mind that you’re there to have fun. Casinos have evolved into one of the country’s premiere entertainment options. About 27 percent of Americans

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visit a casino at least once a year, according to the American Gaming Association, and that number grows as legalized gambling continues to expand beyond the traditional centers of Las Vegas and Atlantic City. Casinos offer a variety of games to entice everyone from those dreaming of a life-changing jackpot to people simply enjoying a night out.

Whether you’re a beginner or a veteran, the most important fact about a casino is this: The house always has the edge, no matter what game you play. Sure, some players will win big. The vast majority won’t. Over the long run, the casino will win because of how the games are structured.

your players club card whenever you gamble there. The card makes you eligible for offers of discounted or free food, hotel rooms or other amenities based on the amount of your play. Slot players put their cards into the machine; table game players present their cards to the dealer.

When you enter any casino for the first time, head to the players club booth and join. Use

The challenge for bettors is to find a game that they enjoy and that has a house edge they’re comfortable

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with. As a rule of thumb, the easier a game is to play, the higher the house edge. Slot machines are the easiest and most popular form of casino gambling. The process is simple: Push a button; win or lose; repeat. Casinos make more money from slots than from any other game. Slots can account for 70 percent or more of the money casinos make from gambling. The house advantage on slots can vary by casino, but typically it’s about 10 percent. In other words, for every $100 put into machines throughout the casino, the machines return an average of about $90 over the long run. In the short run, anything can happen. You could hit a big jackpot or you could lose your buy-in within a few minutes. Regardless of what you might hear elsewhere, there is no strategy for winning at a slot machine. It’s all pure luck, as opposed to skill games such as blackjack and poker. With slots, the outcome is determined by a computer program called a random number generator, or RNG. The RNG’s sole function is

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to spit out groups of numbers. Each number corresponds to a specific symbol on the display. The number combination generated at the instant you hit the spin button determines what symbols will be displayed and whether you win or lose. Before you put money into a slot, check the machine’s display to see how much one credit is worth. That can range from a penny to several hundred dollars. Some machines let you choose the value of a credit, such as 25 cents, 50 cents, $1 or $2. A rule of thumb is that the higher the base denomination, the less the house advantage. Dollar machines pay out more than quarter machines, and quarter machines pay out more than nickel machines. A penny machine is a misnomer. Although each credit is worth only one cent, players can wager as much as $3 a spin by playing multiple pay lines and more than one credit per line. Slot machines appeal to people looking for a pressure-free way to pass the time. Slot players don’t have to worry about making the “right play”

or doing something that could affect other gamblers. The machine itself is the entertainment. Slot manufacturers spend millions of dollars to make machines that entice people play longer. Many are tied to popular movies, TV shows or musical artists – think “Lord of the Rings” or “Pawn Stars” or Dolly Parton – or even games such as Wheel of Fortune, Monopoly and Battleship. In some games, all the players on a group, or “bank” of machines might share in a bonus round. Some games have surround-sound chairs for what manufacturers call “immersion” gaming. Games with a low house edge include: Blackjack, if you take a few minutes to learn the basic strategy of when to hit or stand. Video Poker, if you make the effort to look for good pay tables and learn simple guidelines for which cards to keep and throw away. Baccarat, including the “mini” form found on the main casino form. Craps, a game that looks more complicated than it actually is.

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Blackjack is the most popular card game by far. Those who follow basic strategy can reduce the house edge to 0.5 percent or less, making it the closest thing to an even-money game the casino offers. Many players mistakenly think the object of blackjack is to get a hand as close as possible to a total of 21 without going over. That’s not right. The goal is to beat the dealer. Players have the option of hitting or standing, while the dealer must follow specific rules — generally, he must hit if the total is 16 or less and stand with a total of 17 through 21. If you “bust” by going over 21, you lose even when the dealer also busts, because the dealer is the last to act. So if the dealer’s up-card is weak — especially a Four, Five or Six — it’s better for a player to stand on a “stiff” hand of 12 through 16 than trying to hit and get closer to 21. One of the built-in advantages for a player is that blackjacks traditionally pay 3-to-2, or $15 for a $10 bet. Some casinos offer games that pay 6-to-5 for a blackjack. Never play them. At that game, the player with a blackjack gets paid only $12 for a $10 bet. Since blackjacks will come at

the same rate at each type of game — once in about every 21 hands — playing at 6-to-5 table costs you about $6 an hour.

are comfortable eating at a chain restaurant and catching a matinee. Some want a four-star restaurant and a live musical.

Many books and Web sites teach basic strategy for blackjack. A few favorites: www.WizardOfOdds. com, www.bj21.com, www.BJInsider.com, and authors Stanford Wong, Henry Tamburin and Arnold Snyder.

When you plan a casino trip, figure out how much you’re willing to spend for that night’s entertainment. A cynical adage holds that casino executives figure that whatever you bring through the door is theirs – you just happen to be holding it for the moment. Take what you are comfortable spending. Never bet with money you need for the mortgage or medical bills. You should be mentally prepared to lose it all.

Casinos also offer a variety of “carnival games” that are variations of poker and blackjack. Those include Three Card Poker, Let It Ride Blackjack Switch and Spanish 21. They’re generally easy to learn and play. Poker is popular, but it differs from all other games because you play against other gamblers rather than against the house. The casino gets its cut by collecting a “rake,” typically $4 or $5, out of every pot. One question all casino visitors ask themselves is how much money to take. The answer depends on your own assessment of how much you’re willing to spend for a night at a casino. If you go out for dinner and a show, you know how much that’s worth to you. Some folks

However, that doesn’t mean you should just throw your money away on long shots. Smart gamblers find a game they enjoy and learn the strategies that reduce the house edge as much as possible. If you find yourself ahead after a couple of hours of fun, then remember the dealer’s advice for the nervous blackjack player: Run for the hills! ¦

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YOUTH

SPORTS Transportation

Is our

specialty

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YOUR COMPLETE FALL BUCKET LIST BY: AUSTINTEXAS.ORG

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farm for some oldfashioned harvest fun, such as exploring the five-acre corn maze and feeding the farm animals at Barton Hill Farms in Bastrop; picking your own pumpkins and gourds from the pumpkin patch at Sweet Berry Farm in Marble Falls; or going for a hay ride and meeting the animals at the petting zoo at Georgetown’s Sweet Eats Fruit Farm. 2. Take in fall’s splendor on horseback. Enjoy fall foliage and the quiet charm of the Texas Hill Country with a guided trail ride on horseback with Maverick Horseback Riding in Lockhart or Texas Trail Rides, just outside downtown Austin.

Celebrate autumn in Austin with loads of fun, seasonal activities, including everything from pumpkin patches to fall fests and spooky tours. We have 22 festive fall ideas to get you started. 1. Pick pumpkins and explore a corn maze at local farms. Head on down to the

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3. Enjoy beer, brats and bands at Oktoberfest. Celebrate Central Texas’ German heritage with Oktoberfest events around the region. Toast the harvest with a stein of bier and a juicy bratwurst in hand at Banger’s Oktoberfest, held September 2628 or AustOberfest on September 28, 2019. From October 4-6, 2018, Oktoberfest in Fredericksburg will

feature German music, authentic cuisine and children’s activities. For carnival rides, Bavarianstyle entertainment and German-style sausages, head over to Wurstfest in New Braunfels November 1-10, 2019. 4. Watch a movie under the stars at Blue Starlite Mini Urban Drive-In. Drive over to the Blue Starlite, Austin’s only drive-in movie theater, and watch classic and indie flicks on the big screen beneath the night sky. 5. Peruse artwork at the Fall Pecan Street Festival. Hundreds of makers, crafters and artists take over Austin’s Sixth Street Historic District for the annual Fall Pecan Street Festival to sell their handmade wares, home goods and artwork from September 21-22, 2019. After buying a one-ofa-kind piece, listen to local live music at one of the numerous stages, nosh on delicious dishes from more than 30 street food vendors, and bring the kiddos to enjoy the petting zoo, rides and face-painting.

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6. Stroll through a historic cemetery. Join the free annual Murder, Mayhem & Misadventure Walking Tour on October 26, 2019, at Oakwood Cemetery and learn about the unfortunate demise of some of its locally famous residents, portrayed by actors at actual grave sites. 7. Go on a camping adventure. There’s nothing like the crackle of a campfire and the smell of roasting marshmallows. Enjoy fall’s warm weather with an overnight adventure at one of the many state parks and campgrounds just outside of Austin. Pick the perfect spot to spend the night at Pace Bend Park, McKinney Falls State Park, Inks Lake State Park or Pedernales Falls State Park. 8. Bring the kids to Boo at the Zoo. Unleash your little ones at the Austin Zoo, where they can enjoy Boo at the Zoo on Friday and Saturday nights from October 4-26, 2019. Enjoy a spooky train ride, an entertaining puppet show and a haunted mansion, in addition to meeting the animal

residents. 9. Work up a sweat on a hiking trail. From downtown Austin to the nearby Texas Hill Country, you’ll find no shortage of places to explore on foot. Take in scenic city views along the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail that winds along the shores of Lady Bird Lake, or follow the nature trails at Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge near Marble Falls or Enchanted Rock State Natural Area near Fredericksburg. 10. Get spooked at a haunted house. From brain-hungry zombies to bloodthirsty monsters, come faceto-face with the scariest creatures from your worst nightmares at House of Torment haunted house. Or travel an hour outside of Austin to Scream Hollow Wicked Halloween Park, where you can brave four different haunted houses and the only vampire bar in Texas! 11. Sip a seasonal beer at a craft brewery. Savor the suds of the season at one of Austin’s many craft breweries. Enjoy the Schlagen,

oak-lagered Oktoberfest, from St. Elmo Brewing or Austin Beerworks’ seasonal Montecore, a balanced Oktoberfest featuring all German malts, hops and yeasts. 12. Dare yourself to explore the spooky trails at Pioneer Farms. Venture onto the Haunted Halloween Trails at historic Pioneer Farms to find funny and super-scary surprises along the way. Bring the whole family to enjoy scarecrows, ghost stories, food trucks and live music. 13. Eat outdoors on the nearest patio. In Texas, autumn days equate to gorgeously sunny weather (which, if you ask us, means prime time for patio sitting). Soak up the sunset view overlooking Lake Travis from the multi-storied deck at The Oasis, dine on Michoacan-inspired dishes on the expansive patio at Gabriela’s Downtown, and enjoy brunch in the sprawling beer garden at the new location of Easy Tiger Bake Shop & Beer Garden at The Linc.

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14. Immerse yourself in the colorful celebration of Dias de los Muertos. From late October through early November, celebrate Dias de los Muertos in Austin, the Mexican holiday that remembers loved ones who have passed. Several different cultural events throughout the month will feature a lineup of music performances,

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art exhibits and more. Be sure to attend the 36th annual Viva la Vida Parade & Festival, October 26, 2019. 15. Dig in to all things pumpkin. Forget pumpkin spice lattes. In Austin, we take the seasonal splendor up a notch for pumpkin lovers. For breakfast, indulge in the famous

pumpkin pancakes at Kerbey Lane Cafe (pro tip: they also offer vegan and glutenfree options!) or try a pumpkin muffin with your latte from Stinsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bistro. At lunch, indulge in pumpkin empanadas from La Mexicana Bakery. For dinner, try the homemade pumpkin ravioli at Andiamo Ristorante.

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And don’t forget dessert, a flight of sweet treats from Halcyon Coffee Bar including tiramisu, turtle cheesecake and pumpkin pie or swing by Flyrite Chicken for a seasonal pumpkin spice milkshake. 16. Get out on the water. Make the most of Austin’s glorious fall weather with an excursion on the glittering waters of its lakes. It’s easy to get out on the water at Lady Bird Lake, where you can rent stand-up paddleboards, kayaks and canoes from the Rowing Dock, Congress Avenue Kayaks and more. For an insider’s perspective, take a guided kayak or stand-up paddleboard tour of downtown Austin with Austin City Kayak Tours. 17. Try a refreshing cider. Sure, you could always go to a nearby U-pick farm to enjoy the bounty of apple harvest season. Or, you could enjoy the grown-up version with a glass of hard cider made from freshly pressed apples. Sample the full-bodied, slightly sweet Apple Bomb at Argus Cidery.

Or stop by the tap room at Austin Eastciders to try the limited-edition Spiced cider, laced with cinnamon, cardamom and cloves. 18. Take kids to the spooky Halloween Children’s Concert by Austin Symphony. On October 27, 2019, bring your children to the AISD Performing Arts Center for a frightfully fun symphonic performance at the annual Halloween Children’s Concert. Bonus points if your kiddos come in costume! 19. Spoon into a slice of pie. Enjoy end-of-summer fruits and the spices of fall with a slice of homemade pie. Try the made-from-scratch pumpkin pie at Quack’s 43rd Street Bakery. Or treat yourself to an adorable mini apple or pumpkin chai pie from Tiny Pies. 20. Take off on a Texas Hill Country wine trail. Spend a day wandering around sprawling vineyards and sipping your way through a lineup of award-winning wines when you go on an excursion with Discover Texas Wine Tours. Make

your way through the wine trails of Marble Falls, Dripping Springs or Fredericksburg. 21. Get in the spirit at a UT football game and tailgating party. It’s hard not to get in the team spirit when you’re in the midst of Texas Longhorn country. Don your burnt orange and white, and cheer on the University of Texas at Austin football team as they face off with rivals at Darrell K Royal – Texas Memorial Stadium. Before the game, join fellow fans in some tailgating action at historic Scholz Garten or the lots at 17th and Congress, just south of the stadium. 22. Take a ghost tour. Join a guided walk with Austin Ghost Tours and see some of Austin’s most haunted places. Or ride in style with the Haunted ATX Hearse Limo and cruise local landmarks rumored to be inhabited by ghosts.

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NOVEMBER 2019

Retirement

sets you free.

A MOTORCOACH

helps make it

The best it can

possibly be. The Good Life Starts Here!

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DAILY TRIPS WITH PERKS

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SENIOR TRAVEL AND VACATIONS BY: SENIORLIVING.ORG

You’ve worked hard your whole life and you’ve dreamed of traveling to several exotic locations. Now that you’ve retired, you’re ready to hit the road (or runway). Perhaps you want to travel with your spouse, join a group of older adults or join family or friends on their vacations. The options are limited only by your

pocketbook and your imagination. Senior Travel Tips You’ve waited a long time to enjoy this time in your life. Let’s look at things you can do to make traveling the best experience possible.

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â&#x20AC;˘ Travel Insurance: Be sure to purchase travel insurance to cover the unexpected such as trip cancellations, medical expenses, lost luggage and other incidents associated with travel. Since medical issues are more likely to come up for the senior traveler, it makes sense to purchase travel insurance just

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in case the trip must be canceled due to a medical problem. Check what your health insurance covers when youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re out of the country. Many Medicare supplemental insurance plans do not provide coverage outside of the US. Travel insurance would provide this much-needed coverage.

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Although most people dream of traveling during retirement, according to a report, Journey to Healthy Aging: Planning for Travel in Retirement, only 18% of Americans have specifically saved for retirement travel. This means that most Americans will need to be creative to fulfill their wanderlust after retirement. Some ways you can save on travel and vacation costs include: • Group trips: Because travel agencies purchase tickets in bulk, they can pass the savings on to you. Group travel is generally lead by expert guides steering you towards the best things to do when at specific locales. If you’re traveling solo, it’s a great way to do so without feeling “alone.” • Off-Season Travel: Since you’re retired and no longer tied to a time clock, you have the flexibility of traveling during off-peak travel times, allowing you to take advantage of lower rates. Flights on Monday through Wednesday, 74

especially those during the late morning or afternoon, will save on airfare. Off-season travel will give you further savings on accommodations and attractions. Three great places to find discount flights are The Flight Deal, Secret Flying and Holiday Pirates. According to • Honey Travel: Travel+Leisure, Honey generally offers hotel discounts better than those you’ll find on other booking sites. Honey is a free service (a browser extension) that automatically searches for discounts and coupon codes. • Senior Discounts: Many organizations and retailers offer senior discounts, so be sure to inquire about them as you make reservations and as you travel. Members of AAA, AARP and veterans’ groups can receive discounts at hotels, airlines, tour providers and car rental agencies. The National Park Service sells an $80 (plus $10 handling fee) for a lifetime senior pass to those 62 and older. Some airlines

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NOVEMBER 2019

offer a limited number of senior fares. Many hotels offer senior discounts. • Stay at Hostels: Hostels offer affordable places to stay when traveling. Hostels are popular with younger travelers, so be prepared to run into a lot of partiers during a stay. But as one senior shared, if there’s too much activity in a hostel, they haven’t lost a lot of money should they decide to move on. Sites to help locate a hostel include Hostels. com, HostelWorld.com, Hosteling International and Hostel Bookers. • Stay at an Airbnb: An Airbnb offers you someone’s home as a place to stay instead of a hotel. Accommodations may be an entire home or someone’s spare room. You can find unique accommodations ranging from a castle to an igloo. • Additional Resources: Kiplinger.com provides a list of sites for the best travel deals to help you save money. Cruise

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Sheet and Vacations To Go are great places to locate discounts on cruises, although they may not be senior specific. Intrepid, Kiwi Experience (New Zealand), Context Travel (walking tours) and BusAbout are great places to find discounts on tours and excursions, especially last minute, but again, they may not be senior specific. • Senior Travel Groups and Clubs: These groups allow you to save on senior travel. They are discussed in the following section. No matter what kind of organization or group you choose to travel with, it’s important to plan sufficiently for your trip. If you have special needs, touch base with the group to ensure they can accommodate your needs. The Society for Accessible Travel & Hospitality offers travel tips and access information for travel destinations. They also have a great listing of disability travel websites.

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Senior Travel Groups and Clubs • Senior Travel Clubs/Groups: Senior travel clubs/groups organize trips for its members, offering vacation packages at great rates and provide a wonderful way for solo vacationers to travel with a group of like-minded seniors. Elder Treks, Row Adventures and Walking the World specialize in adventure travel, something many boomers are searching for. Before joining a club, be sure to check with the Better Business Bureau and read their literature, especially the fine print, to ensure the group you have chosen is reputable. • Educational Travel: Road Scholar is a not-for-profit organization and was once known as Elderhostel International. It offers thousands of affordable learning adventures for adults, both nationally and internationally. Some scholarships are available for those who don’t have the financial means to participate. • Voluntourism: A volunteer vacation allows you to give back in a multitude of ways and enjoy various cultures, depending upon the organization through which you volunteer and travel. The trips aren’t free but can be rewarding and provide an economical way to visit a particular area. National 76

and international opportunities are available. Some organizations to check out include REI Adventures, American Hiking Society, Discover Corps, Global Volunteers and Earth Watch. Many others are available. Benefits of Senior Travel Travel during retirement is more than an enjoyable activity. It’s good for you! •

It keeps you active, and older adults who are more physically active have lower rates of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke and many other diseases.

•

It stimulates and challenges your brain as you encounter new people, cultures and environments.

•

It reduces stress and mood and outlook on life.

•

It strengthens and deepens friendships.

improves

your

And, it’s just plain fun! So, get out and enjoy a vacation. You’ve earned it! ¦

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HOW TO PACK FOR A FAMILY VACATION BY: ERIC STOEN

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based on this trip and many others—and they work just as well for a one-week trip as for a longer vacation: 1. Use packing cubes. In our case, each adult gets two and each kid gets one. These allowed us each to pack enough clothes for four to five days each (which was sufficient, given that we would have laundry access at several points during the trip or could do laundry in hotel sinks and bathtubs when necessary). The cubes have the added benefit of neatly organizing our clothes, which comes in handy when we are in non-connecting hotel rooms and need to place each person’s things in the correct room.

This past summer we took a Disney Cruise from Venice to Barcelona and then, with suggestions from the kids (and a little research on TripAdvisor), kept adding on European destinations post-cruise. What started as two weeks in Europe turned into six weeks. Those six weeks included everything from a formal

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night on the cruise to operas in Salzburg to hiking and swimming, with temperatures ranging from the 90s in Turkey to the 50s in Austria at night. We were still able to pack everything for two adults and three kids (ages 4, 6, and 8) into just two suitcases and two carry-ons. Here are our packing suggestions—

2. Pack empty duffels, and be prepared to ship things home. We packed two empty duffels in our suitcases and filled both (with souvenirs and new school clothes for the kids) over the course of the first four weeks. In Austria we bought boxes at the post office, loaded them up, and mailed them home. It was inexpensive, and all of a sudden we had empty duffels again

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for shopping at our remaining destinations. We always have to bring back several bags of Batticuori cookies from Italy, after all! 3. Limit your colors. It’s often said but bears repeating: Take clothes that mix and match. 4. Forget formality. Hauling around a sport coat for six weeks that

you’ll use on only one or two nights doesn’t make sense. My son and I were fine in slacks and buttondown shirts for both the “formal” cruise dinners and the operas. The girls found it easy to make a few skirts and dresses fit any occasion. 5. Eliminate shoes that aren’t practical. Does anyone really need more than three pair of

shoes on a trip? Each of us brought one pair of comfortable walking shoes, one pair of flipflops or sandals, and one pair of slightly nicer shoes for dressing up. No heels: If it can’t be worn on cobblestone streets, it wasn’t allowed in the suitcases. 6. Bring kid medicines. We bring an assortment of medical items that

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may not be easy to locate in foreign cities. Our emergency kit consists of Pepto-Bismol and Tums for kids, Band-Aids, Neosporin, hydrocortisone, and children’s ibuprofen— the chewable pills, not the liquid. Every trip we (unfortunately) need to use most of those items at least once. 7. Don’t forget sun hats and sunscreen. If we forget sun hats, we have to buy them at one of our first stops. It’s not fun being somewhere like Ephesus for hours with no shade.

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8. Take a linen blanket. We find ourselves at the beach frequently and often have impromptu picnics in parks. A large, thin linen towel or blanket works for both: It’s a towel for wet kids, or a picnic blanket. It can also double as a skirt/ sarong for the occasional church that doesn’t accept visitors in shorts, and it can be used to pack breakable items on the way home. 9. Don’t spurn electronics. Books are great at home, but on the road we rely on lightweight iPods and iPad Minis. They’re

lifesavers on airplanes, as well as at long European dinners when it takes 45 minutes to get the check. 10. Remember packing and repair supplies. We bring a small kit with scissors, packing tape, blue gaffer’s tape, and a Sharpie. We use these for everything: shipping boxes, labeling cups, wrapping fragile souvenirs, taping up shampoo tops before flights, and on-the-fly repairs. ¦ SEE THE ORIGINAL ARTICLE.

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DAILY TRIPS WITH PERKS

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WHERE TO GO. WHAT TO DO.

m e M

A DEFINITIVE LIST OF THE BEST, HOTTEST, HIPPEST, COOLEST, DOWNRIGHT AWESOME GROUP TRAVEL IDEAS THIS SIDE OF... WELL ANYWHERE!

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s e ri

o m

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KIFEST- KIDS INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL 2019

2019 HOUSTON MARGARITA FESTIVAL #8

2019 5TH ANNUAL HOUSTON EXOTIC AUTO FESTIVAL

HOUSTON PATRIOTS FANS TAILGATE

Nov 16, Blossom Heights Park, 3721 Jeanetta st., Houston, TX

Nov 24, MSR Houston Motor Speedway Resort, 1 Performance Drive, Angleton, TX

HWE ANNUAL HOLIDAY WOMENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S EXPO

Dec 7 Houston Marriott West Loop Hotel by the Galleria, 1750 West Loop South, Houston, TX

Nov 23, The Water Works in Buffalo Bayou Park, 105 Sabine Street, Houston, TX

Dec 1 NRG Stadium Yellow Lot, 9051 Main St. Houston, TX

TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA

Dec 22, TOYOTA CENTER, 1510 POLK ST, HOUSTON, TX

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WINTER FAIRE & MARKET 2019

Dec 7 Samuell Grand Park,1500 Tenison Parkway, Dallas TX

TURKEY TROT 13.1M/10K/5K/1M REMOTERUN Nov 21-25 Baton Rouge, LA

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FORD FIESTA DE LAS LUMINARIAS Dec 6-21 Riverwalk

THE NUTCRACKER A TALE FROM THE BAYOU Dec 14, RAISING CANEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S RIVER CENTER ARENA, 275 S. River Road, Baton Rouge

xt generation of retirement! A d for those who have a passion for or spending their best years with those Nothing compares to the experiences orcoach. From local sightseeing to d, motorcoaches offer the flexibility, ities that will make your next trip the ches are a great way to make the n years and we look forward to the e you aboard one of our modern you with all we have to offer.

e! FIRST CLASS IN EVERY WAY

WE HAD A GREAT SEASON SUPPORTING OUR HOUSTON ASTROS!!