Grand Living Magazine

Vol. 4 Issue 4 - July/August 2012

Grand Living

Complimentary

Delmarva’s Premier 50+ Magazine

Mind, Body Connection

Cool

Keeping During the Summer Heat So, You Are Now A

Personal Representative Pruning Tomatoes 1

Grand Living Magazine

July/August 2012

www.grandlivingmag.com

How can we take a vacation and know that Mom will have fun and be safe?

We Chose Respite...

We had no idea that Mom could vacation at Brandywine while we were away! She can meet new friends with lots to talk about, share pictures of the grandkids, laugh about the crazy clothes we used to wear in the 60’s... all while enjoying a beautiful suite and fun-filled days.

We Chose Five-Star Dining...

Every day there are choices from many delicious selections prepared by Brandywine’s chefs... and served restaurant-style in their beautiful dining room. We could not believe how great the food was!

We Chose No Worries...

A licensed nurse is on-site (not on call), 24/7 to make sure Mom has all the help she needs – should she need any.

In addition to the nurse, we were amazed at the other team members who took care of her room, and made sure there were lots of things to do everyday.

There are so many good choices available — but there is only one great one...

Choose Brandywine!

Call the location nearest you to schedule a tour & complimentary lunch

FENWICK ISLAND

21111 Arrington Drive | Selbyville, DE 19975 | 302.436.0808

SEASIDE POINTE

36101 Seaside Blvd. | Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971 | 302.226.8750

Ask about our award-winning Reflections® program for memory-impairment.

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Brandywine Senior Living has Locations throughout NJ, PA, DE, CT, NY www.Brandycare.com • 1-877-4BRANDY Grand Living Magazine July/August 2012

Grand Living presents...

Dream Car

American Muscle Interested in being a part?

Submit your photos & stories for Publisher review to: grandlivingmag@verizon.net, before July 31st.

Vehicles chosen will receive a complimentary professional photoshoot by Next Wave Studios and appear in the Sept./Oct. 2012 annual “Dream Car.�

Sorry, Muscle Cars only in 2012.

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Grand Living Magazine

July/August 2012

Grand Living Magazine

Inside Ocean City Official Concierge of the Ocean City Hotel Motel Restaurant Association

Publisher Sandy Phillips Associate Publisher Farin Phillips Editor Lou Ann Hill-Davis Creative Farin Phillips

It’s been three years since “Grand Living’s” premier, and we’ve come a long way from a little publishing house. “Grand Living” continues to be a source of pertinent information for Delmarva’s boomers. We are still told we can be difficult to find, but well worth the look. We aren’t everywhere, and this is by our choice. We are a targeted publication and know where are readers are. We have virtually no overrun pick-up, which means we aren’t just printing copies to say we print a large numbers of magazines.

“Delmarva Unleashed” was lauched two years ago as a column inside of “Grand Living.” Today, it’s Part 2 of our dual magazine, and it’s growing with a life of it’s own, reaching over 50,000 in print and more online. Even our Facebook page has a growing number of ‘likes,’ and according to our analytics we reached over 21,000 during our last DU Cover Model Search! We’ve helped lots of dogs find their way home, find new homes and we are bringing a conscious awareness about quality dog care to the shore.

“Inside Ocean City, Official Concierge of the Ocean City Hotel Motel Association” was delivered this spring to warm accolades across town. Occupying 7,771 hotels rooms in Ocean City, you can also find it in local bars, golf locker rooms, local salons and more!

It’s a great marketing tool which gives back to the community, and we are privileged to work with the OCHMRA. The new “Inside Salisbury” is currently in compilation and scheduled for delivery this fall. A hotel book with a different flavor from that of the beach book, “Inside Salisbury” will reach a tourism market of over 31 million in Wicomico County.

It’s a lot of work for our very small team, but I’m very fortunate to have the team I do. They all put their heart and soul into our publications. I would also like to take a moment to thank our sponsors, particularly those who have been with us from the beginning.

Without you these publcations would not be possible. As we look to our future, we hope to continue to grow each publication, providing quality information for our readers, and exceptional marketing opportunities for our sponsors.

Sandy

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Photography Kyle Hughes, Next Wave Studios Contributing Writers Polly Elliott Therese H. Ganster, ACSW, MPM Kenny Kieran Marie Nottingham James W. Respess, Esq. Mark Stoehr, MAC, LAC Betsy van Die

For Advertising, Contact:: Grand Living Main Office (410)726-7334 grandlivingmag@verizon.net Grand Living Magazine is published six times a year; Jan., Mar., May, July, Sept., and Nov. It is circulated throughout Worcester, Wicomico & Sussex counties, by Grand Living Magazine, LLC. Grand Living Magazine is protected under trademark registration.

“Grand Citizens”™ is also protected under trademark. No portion in whole or part may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. Copyright 2010 ©, Grand Living Magazine LLC. All rights reserved. Content in Grand Living Magazine is intended to provide information only, and is in no way meant to treat or diagnose. Always consult with a speciality professional (i.e. medical, financial, etc.) to address your own personal needs. The company makes every effort to ensure that all information presented is correct. However, we do not make any representations or warranties as to the accuracy of the information, and reliance on information provided is solely at your own risk.

Coming Soon!

Inside Salisbury Official Concierge of Wicomico County

contents Vol. 4 Issue 4 July/August 2012

6 7 8 10 11

Learning Curve Grand Calendar

Keeping Cool During the Summer Heat

Grand Life

Not-So-Average Joe

Home & Hearth

pg.18

Pruning Tomatoes

12 Financial Strength 14 15 16 18 20 23

So, You Are Now a Personal Represenitative Restaurant Discounts to Lighten Your Load

Well Being

Helping Patients with Back Pain Mind Body Connection

Grand Escapes

pg.23

pg.7

Travel Tips

Faré Heart’s Desire

pg.12

pg.16 Grand Living Magazine

July/August 2012

5

Learning Curve

Eat Well on A Budget Eating well doesn’t have to mean spending more money or buying costly “health foods.” You can eat well on a budget by planning ahead and choosing foods that give you more nutrition for your money. In fact, you might find that you spend less, not more, to eat right.

Here are ways to save money.

Benefits of Eating Well Eating well is vital for everyone at all ages. Whatever your age, your daily food choices can make an important difference in your health and in how you look and feel.

Eating a well-planned, balanced mix of foods every day has many health benefits. For instance, eating well may reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, bone loss, some kinds of cancer, and anemia. If you already have one or more of these chronic diseases, eating well and being physically active may help you better manage them. Healthy eating may also help you reduce high blood pressure, lower high cholesterol, and manage diabetes.

Eating well helps keep up your energy level, too. By consuming enough calories — a way to measure the energy you get from food —you give your body the fuel it needs throughout the day. The number of calories needed depends on how old you are, whether you’re a man or woman, your height and weight, and how active you are.

Consuming the right number of calories for your level of physical activity helps you control your weight, too. Extra weight is a concern for older adults because it can increase the risk for diseases such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease and can increase joint problems. Eating more calories than your body needs for your activity level will lead to extra pounds.

If you become less physically active as you age, you will probably need fewer calories to stay at the same weight. Choosing mostly nutrient-dense foods —foods which have a lot of nutrients but relatively few calories — can give you the nutrients you need while keeping down calorie intake.

Eating well isn’t just a “diet” or “program” that’s here today and gone tomorrow. It is part of a healthy lifestyle that you can adopt now and stay with in the years to come.

If you have a specific medical condition, be sure to check with your doctor or registered dietitian about foods you should include or avoid.

Whatever your age, you can start making positive lifestyle changes today. Eating well can help you stay healthy and independent, and look and feel good, in the years to come.

Excerpt from the National Institute of Health, Benefits of Eating Well.

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•

Plan your meals and snacks in advance.

•

Before you shop, check store flyers to look for nutritious foods and ingredients that are on sale.

•

Take a shopping list with you to the grocery store and try to buy only the items on the list.

•

Choose store brands instead of name brands.

•

Clip and use coupons.

•

Look for items that are on sale.

•

Use supermarket discount cards.

Information provided by the National Council on Aging.

Promising Statistics A new report, Cancer Treatment & Survivorship Facts & Figures, published in the CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians, shows that the number of Americans with a history of cancer is estimated at 13.7 million. That number is expected to rise to almost 18 million by 2022. According to the study, by the American Cancer Society in collaboration with the National Cancer Institute, survivorship is growing, even as the rate of cancer incidents is declining.

The study also reported the most common cancer among males, living with a history of cancer, is prostate cancer.

Among women with a history of cancer, the most common form was breast cancer. By the year 2022, these facts are expected to remain unchanged.

The study indicated that 45% of cancer survivors were over the age of 70; with a median age of a patients diagnosis of 66.

For more information on the study, visit www.cancer.org/ survivors.

Grand Calendar July 10 Alzheimer’s Support Group 1:30 p.m.

Brandywine Senior Living at Fenwick Island 302-436-0808

Mid July - Mid August, 2012

July 19 Parkinson Support Group

FREE 3rd Wednesday every month at 2:30 p.m.

Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore 410-749-8511

Aug 4 - Berlin 4th Annual Peach Festival

July 19

July 20

July 27-29

July 28

Purse Party Bingo - To benefit the Alzheimer’s Association.

Brandywine Senior Living at Fenwick Island 302-436-0808

Clear Space Theatre “Broadway at the Beach”

Greek Festival

Lighthouse Tours

Rehoboth Beach Theatre of Arts Friday 7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

For other dates and times visit www.clearspacetheatre.org

Ocean City, MD Friday 12:00 p.m. - 11 p.m.

Saturday 12:00 p.m. - 11 p.m.

Sunday 12:00 p.m. - 9 p.m.

410-524-0990

Aug 4

Aug 6-10

Aug 9

Aug 8-29

White Marlin Open

Parkinson Support Group

Ballroom Made Simple Every Wednesday

Berlin 4th Annual Peach Festival FREE 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Main Street, Berlin 410-641-1019

Weigh-In: Mon-Fri 4:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Harbour Island Marina More information at www.whitemarlinopen.com

Sept 8 Mid-Shore Family YMCA Crab Feast

Roland E. Powell Convention Center

FREE 2nd Thursday every month at 1:30 p.m.

The Woodlands Ocean Pines 410-208-9001

Thirty-One Purse Party

Alzheimer’s Support Group

12:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Brandywine Senior Living at Fenwick Island For info call 302-436-0808

Sept 13-16

Rock and Roll for Alzheimer’s

Mid-Shore Family YMCA Crab Feast

OC BikeFest 2012

Ocean City, MD Ticket info at: 410-733-6653

Mid-Shore Family YMCA 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

For info call: 410-749-1010 www.middelmarvaymca.org

For more info.

443-783-3060

Aug 14

Sept 8

Roland E. Powell Convention Center

6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Aug 11

Aug 25

7:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.

Delaware Breakwater East End Lighthouse 10:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.

For other dates and times visit http://delawarebaylights.org

FREE 2nd Tuesday every month at 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

302-436-0808 RSVP the Friday before the meeting you wish to attend .

Inlet Parking Lot Ocean City, MD For times and admission prices visit www.ocbikefest.com

Grand Living Magazine

July/August 2012

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Keeping Cool During the Summer Heat Therese H. Ganster, ACSW, MPM

W W

hile we’ve enjoyed the spring-like weather through Father’s Day, summer is here, and it looks like we’re going to have to try to stay cool with the following advice.

Heat-related illnesses begin to develop when the temperature exceeds 90 degrees Fahrenheit for more than 2 to 3 days. High humidity also becomes a factor. Here are some tips to help you keep your independence, and enjoy the 4th of July, throughout the summer.

The following symptoms may start their own personal fireworks and individuals need to be very careful during the hot weather spells: • A chronic disease such as congestive heart failure (CHF); chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or diabetes.

Chronic conditions, including circulatory problems, a damaged heart, or previous stroke can often upset normal body responses to heat.

• Taking medications which can weaken body temperature regulation such antihistamines (i.e. Benadryl); tranquilizers, beta blockers (i.e. Lopressor) ; treatment for GI symptoms which contain atropine (i.e. Donnatol); tricyclic antidepressants (i.e. Elavil) and Parkinson’s Disease medications (i.e. Sinamet). Diuretics or fluid pills (i.e. Lasix)can compound the problems of dehydration.

• Lack of access to air conditioning, lack of transportation to leave home for a cooler destination.

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The following illnesses become automatic “outs,” and are caused by heat exposure: • Heat edema is the swelling of the hands, feet and ankles when blood vessels expand and allow fluid to pool under the skin. Keeping feet elevated may help, but recovery typically occurs after a day or two in a cool environment.

• Heat rashes are tiny red spots on the skin which cause a prickling sensation during heat exposure. The spots are a result of inflammation caused when the ducts of sweat glands become plugged. This often can be eliminated by wearing loose and light clothing so air circulation may occur.

• Heat cramps are sharp muscular pains and spasms in the abdominal or leg muscles. The cause is salt imbalance resulting from the failure to replace salt lost with sweat. While water typically is the drink of choice, Gatorade, or a drink with sufficient electrolyte replacement, will get you up and about again quickly.

• Heat syncope is heat induced giddiness and fainting, caused by temporary insufficient flow of blood to the brain while a person is standing. This is caused by the loss of body fluids through sweating and lowering blood pressure due to pooling of blood to the legs. The body compensates for too much heat by diverting blood from the brain to the skin. Recovery is rapid after resting in a cool area.

• Heat exhaustion occurs when the body gets too hot. The hypothalamus, the part of the brain which controls thirst and hunger, also controls the body's core temperature. Normally, the body cools itself by sweating. But if you are exposed to high temperatures for a long time (working outdoors in the summer, for example) and don't replace the fluids you lose, the body systems which regulate temperature become overwhelmed. As a result, your body produces more heat than it can release. Heat exhaustion requires immediate attention because it can progress to heat stroke, a life-threatening illness. Look for these symptoms to stay in the running: profuse sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting, a weak but rapid pulse, and possible fainting. The skin may feel cool and moist. The primary treatment for heat exhaustion is to rest in a cool environment (a shady spot or, better, an airconditioned room), and to drink cool, but not icy fluids. Water is usually enough to reverse dehydration, or you can drink a sports drink which contains electrolytes. You can also cool down by spraying yourself with water and fanning.

• Heat Stroke is the most serious of the heat-related illnesses.

It occurs when the body’s temperature rises rapidly, the sweating system fails and the body is unable to cool down. The body temperature may rise to 106 degrees Fahrenheit within 10 to 15 minutes. Symptoms may include an extremely high oral temperature, above 103 degrees, red hot and dry skin with no sweating, rapid and strong pulse, throbbing headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion and sometimes unconsciousness.

Do not delay treatment! Call emergency services (911) immediately. If their arrival is delayed, they can give you further instructions for treatment of the victim over the phone.

Get the victim to a shady area, remove clothing, apply cool or tepid water to the skin. For example, you may spray the victim with cool water from a garden hose, fan the victim to promote sweating and evaporation, and place ice packs under armpits and the groin area. Monitor body temperature with a thermometer, and continue cooling efforts until the body temperature drops to 101-102°F (38.3-38.8°C). And remember the best way to beat the heat is prevention!

• Fans or air conditioning are necessities, and air conditioning is preferable, particularly when the temperature is 90 degrees and above. Fans without refrigerated air spur the movement of the hot, humid air. This actually causes the body heat to accelerate and it will raise internal body temperature.

• Minimize your consumption of alcohol. While summer drinks are tasty, the alcohol acts as a diuretic and causes quick water loss.

• Avoid hot foods and heavy meals, and be aware of your salt intake.

• Always keep ice packs handy in the freezer.

• Wear lightweight, light colored, loose-fitting clothing.

• Schedule your daily walk before 10:00 a.m. and after 6:00 p.m. If participating in an outdoor activity, rest every 15 to 20 minutes and use that time to drink water, even if you don’t feel thirsty!

• Listen to the weather forecast, which will give a heat advisory.

During a heat advisory the air temperature and humidity together reach a heat index of 108 for two consecutive days.

How much water should you drink? The daily intake of pure water should be the number of fluid oz. equal to one-half the number of pounds the person weighs. For example, if you weigh 150 pounds, then you should regularly be drinking about 75 fluid oz. or 8-10 oz. glasses of fluids per day. This amount should increase during the summer months, when you are sweating and/or if you are taking part in physical activities.

Please note, individuals who have epilepsy, heart, kidney or liver disease, are on fluid-restrictive diets, or have a problem with fluid retention, should always consult their doctor before increasing their water or fluid intake.

“While water typically is the drink of choice, Gatorade, or a drink with sufficient electrolyte replacement, will get you up and about again quickly.”

Illnesses due to Heat Exposure: Illness Heat Edema Symptoms The swelling of the hands, feet and ankles.

Heat Rash Tiny red spots on the skin causing a prickling sensation during heat exposure.

Heat Cramps Sharp muscular pains and spasms in the abdominal or leg muscles.

Heat Syncope Heat-induced giddiness and fainting caused by temporary insufficient flow of blood to the brain while a person is standing.

Treatment

Wearing loose and light clothing so air circulation can occur.

Drinking Gatorade or a “sports drink” with sufficient electrolyte replacement.

Recovery is rapid after resting in a cool area.

Keeping feet elevated may help, but recovery typically occurs after a day or two in a cool environment.

Heat Exhaustion Profuse sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting, a weak but rapid pulse, and possible fainting.

The skin may feel cool and moist.

Water is usually enough, or you can drink a sports drink that contains electrolytes. You can also cool down by spraying yourself with water and fanning.

Heat Stroke Extremely high oral temperature above 103 degrees, red hot and dry skin with no sweating, rapid and strong pulse, throbbing headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion and unconsciousness.

Call emergency services (911) immediately! Get the victim to a shady area, remove clothing, and apply cool or tepid water to the skin. For example, you can spray the victim with cool water from a garden hose, fan the victim to promote evaporation, and place ice packs under armpits and groins. Monitor body temperature with a thermometer and continue cooling efforts until the body temperature drops to 101-102°F (38.3-38.8°C).

Grand Living Magazine

July/August 2012

9

The Grand Life

Not-So-Average Joe

by Sandy Phillips

Y Y

ou may think Joe Kowalski is just an "average" Joe, but while most of us consider ourselves average, in our own way, each of us has done something spectacular. Maybe you raised an amazing child, made an unusual contribution during your employment, or even changed the direction of someone’s life. The list is endless. Most of all, its about perspective. The important thing is to reflect on the positive.

When Joe Kowalski was 16 years old he took a job in a local pool room. It was post depression and jobs were still a bit difficult to find. Joe felt very lucky to have a job and dedicated himself to his new position. It was a very busy pool hall, and many of New York's finest players came there to play or just hang out. As Joe would rack balls, and serve drinks, he became very interested in the game and the friendly competitions between players. He made friends with the regulars and learned their skill from afar. During slow periods at the pool hall, the owner would often let Joe practice the skills he was silently learning and was amazed to find he was acquiring a very skilled stick. At the suggestion of the owner, Joe began to play rounds, with many of the regulars. Joe's growing talent was quickly identified by many.

He continued to hone his skills and began playing for money 10

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with increasing stakes. Soon Joe found himself in one of the North East's largest pool tournaments.

"It was so exciting, says Joe, to think that I was really a self-taught pool enthusiast, and I could make a living playing the game!" That particular tournament was really important to Joe, but it was there that he found he still had a long way to go. "I made several shots in a row before it was my opponent's turn, then he quickly ran the table. I was out of the tournament." After that, Joe began playing more for pleasure, but he looks back very fondly on that amazing time in his life, as a young man.

Not long after the tournament, Joe was drafted into the Military and left for Africa. During WWII, Joe was a member of the 1st Field Artillery Observance Battalion. There he planted field microphones to monitor the opposition forces, and he participated as a "night observer," a part of the tactical planning team. Joe served three years overseas, and his greatest experience from the war was his opportunity to serve under the famed General Patton. "He was a man who made things happen," said Joe. He didn't believe in waiting to see what was going to happen next. Under his command we made things happen first, before the enemy even had a chance. It was a real privilege to be a part of the General’s command."

Post war, Joe partnered with a friend and got in the car rental business. "It was a great time to rent cars. They weren't plentiful, so demand was high. I'm not sure how far we could have taken that business, but it was very successful. Maybe we could have become ‘Hertz,’ who knows,” Joe continued. My partner wanted to go in a different, direction and after a while we parted ways.

Joe spent the next 16 years in service with the NYPD as a motor vehicle driver. "It was an exciting job; always something going on," he said. Joe often drove the Paddy Wagon. Just imagine the adventures he had.

In 1978, Joe and his wife wanted to see what all the talk was about, surrounding the popular Ocean City, Maryland. So they came to the shore for vacation. As many will do, they too fell in love the shore and now call it home. When I asked Joe what he found so charming on that first trip, he told me the "self-serve vegetable stands." He add “my wife and I just couldn't' get over the fact that people put out veggies and trusted you to pay for them. They would have disappeared in a minute on a New York street. Charming is the perfect word to describe them. We would stop at as many as possible, explore them, add our tally to each cigar boxm and we took home a large assortment of fresh fruits and veggies. It was great!"

Joe has seen many segments of his life as an "adventure."

Regardless of your age, when you revisit the past, do you find adventure? Chances are your life is not average, you just have to go out and find your own adventure. GLM

Home & Hearth

Pruning Tomatoes

by Polly Elliot

T T

omatoes seem to grow with such hardiness and vigor on the shore that you are almost guaranteed a bountiful harvest.

However, the rapid growth most gardeners experience can lead to health problems with the plant.

For the first month after germination, the growth is focused on developing structure and leaves, as the basic “sugar factory� is put in place. Within weeks, the entire focus of growth changes completely to fruit production.

Plants not properly supported will begin to lie in the ground from the weight of the developing fruit, and the second tier formation of side limbs, will begin at this stage of development.

Healthy tomato plants need to be kept off of the ground, and caging is often necessary. At the very least, the plants should be staked on the main stem and any heavy side branches, as they begin to develop. The plants will also fare much better during a strong summer storm, with proper support.

Another method of maintaining the proper tomato is to prune.

A properly pruned and supported single-stem tomato plant can present all of its leaves to the sun, allowing the sugar factory inside to develop more plump flavorful fruit. There is also a lower incidence of leaf spot and fruit rot on a well pruned-plant, because the leaves and soil dry much faster, reducing root rot as well. The result of careful pruning and management means a steady supply of large fruit through fall. Plants will only stop producing when a hard frost stops the process.

You will need to keep tomatoes free from side stems below the first fruit cluster. This will encourage strong stem growth.

Then remove the small non-productive stems or suckers from the main stem within 10 inches of the top of the plant. Never cut the top of the main stem, as this will stunt the growth of the plant.

Remember some suckers are destined to become new stems; this can become a selective pruning process. Try to leave the healthiest suckers to become new stemsm and the best time to begin this process is while the suckers can simply be pinched from the stem. Avoid cutting with a knife or blade of any kind, as you actually open the plant to infection with a wound. Although pinching a sucker does cause a very small wound, this type of wound will heal very quickly. There is also a pruning technique called Missouri pruning, in which you pinch just the top of the sucker, preventing more forward growth, but allowing leaves to remain for photosynthesis. Some gardeners believe this method produces the best fruits.

If your tomatoes are in containers, this method is often preferred to help protect the hanging fruit from the sun. Plants grown in containers often are more subject to heat-related problems as the containers dry out more quickly than the ground itself. Many gardeners take pride in beautiful plants and enjoy the health benefits of the vitamin-rich tomatoes for several months. GLM Grand Living Magazine

July/August 2012

11

Financial Strength

A A

So, You Are Now A Personal Representative

person named to administer an estate used to be called an “executor” or an “executrix” depending on gender. Now the term is “personal representative,” regardless of whether that person is named in a will or is appointed because there was no will.

INTRODUCTION: Administering an estate can be relatively simple, if everything is in order and there is a will and if the estate is considered a small estate. However, most estates are not in good order, and most people don’t have a will.

The purpose of a personal representative is to carry out the wishes of the decedent or to follow the intestacy law in the cases where there is no will.

YOUR SPECIFIC DUTIES: You first open an Estate; in Maryland you do that at the Register of Wills office, The Registrar will appoint you and give you an order which you can use to identify yourself and your authority to act for the estate. The estate must be advertised for the purpose of giving notice to creditors and other interested parties. In some cases you must post a bond to make sure that the creditors and heirs are protected. If you are a resident of another state, you will have to appoint a Registers Agent to receive official service of process.

You must inventory all of the assets of the estate; have them appraised to fair market value at time of death of the decedent.

You must also manage the assets, making sure that they are protected until the estate is closed. You must pay all estate bills, file all tax returns, and pay the income and estate taxes that are due.

You must determine if there is a surviving spouse allowance and, if so, pay that to them or their representative.

12 Grand Living Magazine July/August 2012

by James W. Respess, Esq., RFC

YOUR AUTHORITY: The Register of Wills or the Court will issue “letters” to you that say that you have been appointed personal representative. These letters are evidence that you have authority to act on behalf of the estate. You will need to show or send them to various third parties such as banks, and insurance companies when you are administering the affairs of the estate.

YOUR GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES: 1. Even before the estate is opened, if you are named personal representative in a will, you have the authority to carry out the wishes of the deceased relating to his or her body, funeral, cremation and burial arrangements. You should begin to protect the decedent’s assets. No assets should be distributed or disposed of before an estate is opened.

2. Set up an estate accounting system at the beginning of the administration, keep records of every transaction, income and expense, including your time. You will need this to file reports with the Court.

3. When the estate is opened, send a Notice of Appointment to all known creditors, such as credit card companies, physicians, banks, etc.., that the person has died and that you are the personal representative. Make sure all proper bills are paid. You will need to decide if some are not proper and notify the creditor that the charge is not approved, in part or in full.

4. You must prepare an inventory with appraisals. Most Register of Wills have the name of approved appraisers.

5. Determine if there is an allowance for the surviving spouse and/or minor children and pay that to the appropriate party.

Remember the children may have a guardian or someone who is responsible for them. The spouse may not be competent to receive any funds directly.

Bill W. of Salis bury, MD, kept his eye on his goals while recove ring stroke with P from a eninsula Home Care: lunch at his favorite resta urant,Vinny’s La Roma, wit h his date of 59 years – h is wife Shell.

It can happen to you. One day you are involved in your life, the next you are sidelined by a stroke.The road to recovery can be long – but Peninsula Home Care can be with you every step of the way, from skilled nursing to physical therapy to family education.

Get up, get going, get out to lunch again. At Peninsula Home Care, our mission is to get you back to your best life possible.

The law guarantees you the right to choose who can come into your home and provide nursing, therapy and aid. Choose Peninsula Home Care. . . and get back to your favorite things.

Wicomico & Somerset Counties 410-543-7550 Worcester County 410-208-4828 Sussex County 302-629-4914 www.PeninsulaHomeCare.com Serving Wicomico, Somerset & Worcester Counties in MD & Sussex County in DE since 1985.

YOUR LIABILITY: It is important to note that you are liable to the beneficiaries for any loss to the estate and for any gain the estate should have realized but did not, or if you were negligent or intentionally did something you shouldn’t have done, or failed to do something you should have done.

This article cannot give all of the duties that you have as a Personal Representative. As you read this consider having an attorney work with you. You may want to allow the Attorney’s assistant to take care of the responsibilities outlined above.

Be sure to have one experienced in Estate Administration. GLM James Respess, Esq., RFC is a practicing attorney in Salisbury, Maryland and limits his practice to Elder Care, Veterans Benefits, Estate and Business Planning. He can be reached at 443-736-7523 or jrespess@comcast.net.

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6. As the personal representative, you’re responsible for managing the estate until it is distributed. What you are responsible for is usually stated in the will. Once you are appointed, you have full authority and control over the assets that the decedent owned in his or her name alone or as co-tenant with others. Property held in joint tenancy with right of survivorship is not a probate asset, nor proceeds of life insurance that is payable to a named beneficiary, other than the estate.

For registered stocks and bonds, submit your letters of appointment to the transfer agent, along with securities and an affidavit of domicile, which you get from the broker or bank. In Maryland, some estates take a long time; a year or several years is not unusual. In that case, you may need to invest some funds; a broker can assist you in that. The investment standard is called “The Prudent Investor Rule.” Your broker will guide you through this process.

7. You will need to settle the taxes for the decedent. When a person dies, the tax year ends on the day of his or her death. It begins the day after their last tax year ended, usually the first day of January of the same year.

There are Federal and State income taxes, State Inheritance Taxes and there may be Federal and State Estate Taxes.

Remember, the Estate and the decedent are separate taxable entities. The income and expenses may not be combined. You will have to get a separate tax number from the IRS and the State for the estate There will be income received after death, that would have been the decedent’s income if he or she had lived, this is income earned before death, but received after death. It is called income in “Respect of a Decedent,” or IRD income.

8. You may be compensated, in Maryland, this is called a commission. It is computed as a percent of the value of the estate. The attorney and the PR will be paid from this fund; however, if you have an attorney, and the attorney has some unusual legal actions to take, the court will authorize an additional amount for the attorney.

9. You will have to file a final accounting with the Register of Wills or the Orphans Court to close the estate, after all distributions are made. If the decedent has a Trust, you will have a “Pour over Will.” At that time, all the assets will go into the Trust. The Trust will make any distributions that need to be made.

The Trust will manage any assets that are being held for future distribution and for the assistance of the minor or disabled beneficiaries.

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Grand Living Magazine

July/August 2012

13

Discounts

Restaurant for Grand Citizens Help to Lighten Your Spending Load

by Lou Ann Hill-Davis

It PAYS to be a Grand Citizen! Around town and while traveling, make the most of your Grand Citizen years by using the restaurant and fast-food senior discounts listed below. As you’re aware, many local businesses shy away from discounting at this time of year, but in the coming off season, make sure to ask your favorite local establishment for their Grand Citizen specials!

Applebee’s: 15% off with Golden Apple Card (60+) Arby’s: 10% off (55+) Burger King: 10% off (60+) Chick-Fil-A: 10% off or free small drink or coffee (55+) Chili’s: 10% off (55+) Denny’s: 10% off, 20% off for AARP members (55+) Dunkin’ Donuts: 10% off or free coffee (55+) Golden Corral: 10% off (60+) Hardee’s: $0.33 beverages everyday (65+) IHOP: 10% off (55+) KFC: Free small drink with any meal (55+) Krispy Kreme: 10% off (50+) Long John Silver’s: various discounts at participating locations (55+) McDonald’s: discounts on coffee everyday (55+) Mrs. Fields: 10% off at participating locations (60+) Sonic: 10% off or free beverage (60+) Subway: 10% off (60+) Taco Bell: 5% off; free beverages for seniors (65+) TCBY: 10% off (55+) Wendy’s: 10% off (55+) Don’t miss Grand Living Magazine’s next issue when LYLS will bring you Grand Citizen “Retail & Apparel” discounts!

Lou Ann Hill-Davis is the President of Lighten Your Load Solutions, LLC. Offices are located in Jacksonville, FL. www.LightenYourLoadSolutions.com.

(NOTE: Ms. Hill-Davis would like to thank Nancy Larson for her invaluable information used for this article.)

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Grand Living Magazine

July/August 2012

Well Being

Helping Patients with Back Pain A Significant Component of Neurosurgical Practice

W W

hen people hear the word “neurosurgeon,” most think brain surgeon. Neurosurgeons certainly operate on the brain, but they treat far more patients with spine and peripheral nerve problems, providing surgical and nonsurgical care. Neurosurgeons are trained to treat disease of the spine throughout their seven-year residency. In fact, they are the only physicians who treat the entire spine – both the spinal cord itself and the structures that can exert pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots.

According to the American Association for Neurological Surgeons (AANS), it is estimated that between 75 and 85 percent of all Americans will suffer from low-back pain and/or neck pain at some point in their lives. An estimated 12 million Americans suffer from degenerative disc disease, with over one million patients undergoing surgery each year. Back and neck problems can be attributed to several underlying issues, including a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, injury, or osteoarthritis.

In about 90 percent of all cases, conservative treatment will help alleviate pain without the need for surgery. Neurosurgeons first try conservative treatment options on patients may seek consultation for the first time with a neurosurgeon, after he or she has been treated by another medical specialist, without achieving adequate pain relief. An exception is when a patient suffers severe traumatic injury or has a severe neurological deficit, which usually requires immediate surgical intervention.

A herniated disc is a fragment of the disc nucleus which is pushed out of the annulus into the spinal canal, through a tear or rupture. Discs that become herniated are usually in an early stage of degeneration. The spinal canal has limited space, which becomes inadequate for the spinal nerve when a disc fragment

herniates into the space. Herniated discs can occur in any part of the spine, but are more common in the lower back (lumbar spine). The area in which you experience pain depends on what part of your spine is affected.

Spinal stenosis occurs when the spinal canal narrows and compresses the spinal cord and/or the nerve roots, and is most frequently caused by aging. The discs in the spine that separate and cushion vertebrae may dry out. As a result, the space between the vertebrate shrinks, and the discs lose their ability to act as shock absorbers. This can lead to disc degeneration, bone spurs, or pinched nerves, causing impaired function and pain.

Lumbar spinal stenosis is more common than cervical spinal stenosis. Back and neck injuries are commonly caused by motor vehicle accidents, falls, sports, or other trauma. Pain from these injuries may be caused by tears in muscles or injuries to the joints between vertebrae. Other causes of pain are ligament rupture or damage to a disc.

Nonsurgical treatment options for spine-related problems include physical therapy, weight reduction, steroid injections (epidural steroids), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, rehabilitation, and limiting activity. All of these treatment options are aimed at relieving the inflammation and strengthening the back.

There are several surgical treatment options, depending on the patient’s specific condition and overall health. Recent advances include artificial cervical and lumbar discs and minimally invasive spine surgery (MIS). Patients must meet specific criteria to be candidates for these procedures, and there needs to be certainty that the same or better results can be achieved through these techniques as with the respective traditional procedure.

With MIS procedures, there is potential for quicker recovery, decreased operative blood loss, and speedier patient return to normal function.

More information is available under Patient Information on the AANS website at www.aans.org. Click on Conditions and Treatments, where you will find more than 20 in-depth, back-related topics. GLM

by Betsy van Die

Grand Living Magazine

July/August 2012

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Mind, Body Connection

by Mark Stoehr, MAC, LAC

H H

ave you ever gotten a headache or neck pain from stress?

Do you have a “nervous” bladder? Do you seek out comfort food when upset? If you answered yes to any of the above questions, you know all about the mind/body connection. I can tell you from my own clinical and personal experience, many ailments stem from unresolved emotional and spiritual issues. The mind body connection is well researched but not always accepted by the medical community.

One of the questions I ask every patient is “when did your problem start.” I gather quite a bit of information from the answer to this question. Often the patient’s problem started around the same time as a major emotional trauma, such as the death of a loved one, divorce, sickness, stress, trauma, etc. Most patients are unaware of the connection until I ask this question.

I recently had a young male patient in my office with back pain. He told me that the pain started randomly six months ago.

I asked him what was going on in his life during the onset and he told me that he had just recently broken up with his girlfriend and lost his job, all at the same time. I helped him to realize that when he thought about the emotional circumstances related to the breakup and job loss, he felt pain physically in his back. He had not really made the connection before. My goal with him was to help him resolve the underlying emotional issues to help his back pain. I prescribed acupuncture, herbal medicine and meditation to help him overcome the emotional trauma. In addition, I taught him some new ways to cope with his emotional trauma. After two weeks his back pain was gone! He now knows that his emotions play a huge role in his physical health.

This prescribed method is very effective when the problem is related to the mind. Very frequently a person’s problem is from a physical accident or injury. In this scenario, the mind may not be causing the pain, although the pain may start to affect the mind.

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I often find that these patients can begin to develop anxiety and or depression.

The mind plays a huge role in the development of heart disease and cancer. “The Biology of Belief” by Bruce Lipton demonstrates how our perception determines our biology. Basically our genes turn on and off, depending on our thoughts. Bruce Lipton’s research explains the power of positive thinking and vice versa. If you truly believe and envision a long and healthy life, you will turn off disease related genes which will contribute to longevity. If you believe you will have a heart attack at the age of 70 because your parents did, you will “turn on” the genes that will cause a heart attack at age 70. This new field of study is called “epigenetics.” Lipton is a researcher who has shown that only 5% of cardiovascular disease and cancer are hereditary and 95% are attributable to environmental causes.

Lipton’s research support is scientific proof of the mind body connection, and it also shows that we have great control over the quality of our health. If you want to live a long and healthy life, I would recommend focusing on your mind. Practices such as “forgiveness” and letting go are wonderful ways to release anger and frustration. Meditation calms the mind and relaxes the body. It’s a great way to prevent physical disease which originates in the mind. Also remember that is optional to become upset. Choose understanding, forgiveness or any other emotion that can benefit your body and mind. GLM Mark Stoehr earned a BS degree of University of Maryland College Park and a Masters Degree in Acupuncture from Tai Sophia Institute. He has a private practice in North Ocean City on 142nd Street and West Ocean City next to OC Organics. Mr. Stoehr is also a faculty member at Tai Sophia Institute and has been a guest lecturer at University of Maryland Medical School, Salisbury University and Howard Community College. Mark can be reached at (410) 7071540, mastoehr@hotmail.com and www.marksacupuncture.com.

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Grand Living Magazine

July/August 2012

17

The Grand Escapes

Travel Tips

by Kenny Kieran

G G

oing on a vacation with your loved ones is indeed, one of the most fun-filled and joyous experiences. You get to discover the most crystalline beaches, picturesque landscapes, quaint architecture, virgin forests, and so much more. Vacation travel entails careful planning and you might consider a travel agent who will help you to organize some of your tour preparations.

When traveling, planning is paramount. It will give you enough time to decide which things need to be of top priority and what the essential items need to travel with you.

1. Keep your travel documents secure. If you are planning overseas vacation, do not wait until the last minute to obtain passports. Several weeks are required for processing of new passports, even with the “expedited” processing.

2. To get the competitive rates for your transportation and accommodations, you will need to make your reservations several weeks, and in some cases, months in advance. You can also obtain some best bargains during the “off-season,” when demand will be low.

3. Along with travel documents and your clothing, you must carry any special medicines that you or any of your family members may need. Before embarking on a trip, check to make sure that you are allowed to travel with your medicines. If there are limitations, check with your physician for alternatives or documentation that may be required.

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Grand Living Magazine

July/August 2012

4. Book your tours through trustworthy agencies, and if possible avoid traveling alone to an unfamiliar destination. Try to know the traditions and local culture of the destination before you start your trip. It is important to do your homework and know the area you will be visiting and the applicable laws, locations of best tourist spots, and the kind of people you will interact with.

5. As a result of terrorist activities, airports have increased their security inspections before allowing passengers to board. Get to the airport early to manage the security check-in congestion.

Locks for your luggage must be Travel Security Administration (TSA) approved, so that your luggage can be opened for inspection without having to cut your locks.

6. When traveling, be constantly aware of your surroundings to guard against pickpockets and other forms of crime. Travel with no more than two credit cards, and notify the card companies that you will be traveling, in advance of your departure so that they will not put a hold your cards when they notice charges from unfamiliar places.

7. Before leaving on a vacation with your family, make sure you have enough money and are adequately financially equipped so that you are not broke midway. It is good to budget your expenses beforehand and avoid overspending.

9. When packing your clothing, fold, then roll your clothing items. You will be surprised how much more your suitcase will hold. This will also mean less creasing and you will not have to scout an iron when you reach your destination. Keep in mind the luggage weight limits for your airline. Most allow up to one, 50-lb. bag. Many airlines charge additional fees for each bag over one, and for bags over their weight limit. When you travel with a companion or family, always pack each suitcase with a mixture of clothing belonging to each family member traveling. Even if a bag is lost, no one will be without a change of clothes.

The Grand Life

8. Carry a digital camera that uses AA batteries instead of a camera that uses proprietary batteries. They are less expensive to replace, easy to change and are easily available wherever you go.

Fact: Superior Technology Yields Superior Results

Vincenzo DeMasi, M.D.

10. Finally, do not expect everything on your vacation to be perfect. You maybe going to your dream destination, but conflicts can always arise with fellow travelers. Even the best of vacations can have challenging moments. GLM

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Grand Living Magazine

July/August 2012

19

Salisbury’s Official Concierge to the Visitor,

Salisbury INSIDE

is currently looking for photographers!

Being a part of Inside Salisbury is a great way to get your work published! We are currently seeking images of Salisbury and the surrounding areas, including a cover shot!

The cover must be of the utmost quality and reflect the heart and soul of the area. We are also seeking high-quality two-page spreads and images of local events. Full credit will be given for your work. All images submitted become the property of Inside Salisbury, with all rights to publication.

Send high resolution digital images of at least 300 dpi to sandy@insidesalisbury.com.

Photographers whose images are selected for use as cover or spreads will be notified in advance of publication. Spread images must be 8.75 x 23 at 300 dpi. Cover image 8.75 x 11.75 at 300 dpi. Like us on Facebook at Inside Salisbury for updates.

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Grand Living Magazine

July/August 2012

FarĂŠ

Summer Grilling Squash Fritters Tuna Burgers Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs. fresh tuna steaks 4 Ciabatta rolls or French Bread 1/4 cup of olives, pitted and chopped 2 Tbsp. capers, drained 1 clove of garlic, chopped 1/2 lemon, juiced 1/2 cup prepared mayonnaise Salt & Pepper Directions: 1. Mix all the ingredients together, except for the tuna steaks and the rolls.

2. Chill the sauce for 30 minutes before adding it to the Ciabatta rolls.

3. Grill the tuna steaks for approx. 3 minutes on each side; depending on the thickness, for a medium done steak.

Ingredients: 2 cups of grated squash 1/4 tsp. finely chopped onions 2 tsp. sugar 1 tsp. salt 6 tsp. flour 2 eggs 2 tsp. melted butter Shredded cheese Directions: 1. Mix all the ingredients together 2. Make them into pancakes 3. Cook on a griddle

Grilled Panzanella Salad Ingredients: 2 Tbsp. EVOO 2 tsp. red wine vinegar 2 tsp. fresh lemon juice 1 small clove garlic, minced

Sangria

Ingredients: 1 qt. burgundy wine 1 shot of brandy 1/2 cup fresh orange juice 1 tbsp. fresh lemon juice 1/2 cup sugar Directions: 1. Mix all ingredients in a large pitcher 2. Add sugar to taste 3. Serve with lemon slices, orange slices, and apple slices

3 medium tomatoes, quartered 6 scallions or red onion 2 large red bell peppers (any color), quartered 1 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise 1 10-ounce loaf ciabatta halved lengthwise 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil 1/4 pound thinly sliced capicola, cut into 2-inch ribbons Oil for brushing vegetables Directions: Preheat grill to medium heat.

Dressing: Whisk together, oil, vinegar, lemon juice and garlic.

Add salt and pepper to taste.

Cut vegetables into bite size pieces, drizzle with oil and transfer to a vegetable grilling pan. Grill until tender. Then remove from grill to cool. Toss in dressing and serve warm.

Grand Living Magazine

July/August 2012

21

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Heart’s Desire

from “Grand Living” Readers

We all have a list of things to do in our lifetime, and the list often begins in our childhood. Things like college, marriage, children, and home building, take center stage. There are many other things that make your “list of a lifetime.” Consider adding some of the suggestions below, because you’re only as old as you think you are!

Send your “Heart’s Desire” for an upcoming issue, to grandlivingmag@verizon.net or call us at 410-726-7334.

“Visit Niagara Falls.”

D. Malone - Age 57 - Ocean Pines, MD

“Learn to Kite Surf.”

M. Howell - Age 52 - Salisbury, MD

“See the Olympics, in person.”

M. Carroll - Age 48 - Hardscrabble, DE

“Swim with dolphins.”

A. Wright - Age 61 - Millsboro, DE

“Write a letter to Juliet, and place it on the wall at Juliet’s house in Verona.”

K. Bush - Age 73 - Snow Hill, MD

Grand Living Magazine

July/August 2012

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