Lifestyles After 50 Southwest Edition, December 2024 by Lifestyles After 50 Magazine

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Trimming the Tree, Singing Carols, and the Annual Jólabókaflóð

For me, every year the “holiday” season begins on October 31. Regular readers of this column already know that far and away, Halloween is my favorite holiday because of the many wonderful childhood memories dressing up as Princess Leia or a witch and swapping candy with my brother on the orange shag rug. (Thanksgiving is great, too, as mashed potatoes with gravy are ranked closely behind chocolate on my personal Top 10 List.)

However, I do want to point out that I also love Christmas, and for entirely different reasons. While Halloween is a chance to be somebody else (like Wonder Woman), Christmas is about returning to your family roots and embracing your own true goodness.

For me, Christmas encapsulates all the things that are right in the world. The weather is chilly and I can wear all my nice sweaters, of which I have many. I get to use the gas fireplace in my living room for two or even three days. Cold nights call for soup made of whatever is leftover in the refrigerator,

creating culinary masterpieces neverto-be-repeated. People are generally happy and a bit more forgiving; they let others merge into traffic, give their spare change a little more freely, and smile easily.

There are also many lovely traditions, like tree trimming, singing carols, Christmas cookies, giving and receiving hand-picked gifts, and making charitable donations. I recently read again about a tradition I had forgotten – I have friends who live in Iceland, and they reminded me of the annual Jólabókaflóð (yohla-bok-ah-flood), literally a “flood of books.” In this case, the giving and receiving of new books on Christmas Eve, then snuggling up companionably with loved ones, reading those books and sipping hot chocolate.

So here’s my wish for all of you readers out there this Christmastide: may your beaches be clean, your trees be evergreen, and your days be filled with a flood… of books and good cheer.

Best wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year,

Lifestyles After 50

Volume 35, Issue 12

Published by Connected Community

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Photo by James Patterson

Season Up the Holidays with Sassy Spirits

Courtesy of Food Tips by Angie (FoodTipsByAngie.com)

Cooking with spirits adds heavenly flavor to your dishes, one splash at a time! The first and most important rule is to cook with quality spirits that you would drink: most often you don’t need much. If you can’t or choose not to enjoy spirits, you can still add a great extra flavor to your dishes by substituting a broth or a citrus juice depending on your dish.

Beer will bring your chili to a whole new level. Add a bottle to your next pot and you will see what I mean.

Use red wine for your red meat dishes like beef stew and steak. When you reduce wine (cook it down so you have half of what you started with), it takes on a whole new dimension enhancing the flavor: deep, dark and

delicious. Use white wine for fish, chicken and pork dishes. Caramelize a finely chopped onion, add a few capers and deglaze the pan with a little white wine for a simple sauce.

Add sherry to your Swedish Meatballs for an awesome tang!

Brandy – a little goes a long way – add a few splashes to olive tapenade.

Siesta Key Toasted Coconut Rum gives this Rum Pineapple Sauce a zing. Cook 1/4 cup finely diced pineapple in a little oil until brown, mix in 1/4 cup of rum and 1/4 cup of pineapple juice. Cook for half an hour and season with salt and cracked pepper blend. Thicken with cornstarch or puree it for a smooth sauce. Serve over grilled pork tenderloin.

Christmas Breakfast Casserole

This easy to make breakfast casserole is the perfect dish: meat, eggs, cheese and spices all go into the oven and meld into a luxurious savory treat. Best made on Christmas Eve and put in the refrigerator for 8 hours. Bake while opening gifts, then eat piping hot with a dollop of sour cream and a dash of hot sauce.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. pork sausage (can use maple, mild, or spicy sausage)

• 6 slices of bread, cubed into small pieces

• 1 (8-ounce) package shredded cheddar cheese

Method:

• 8 large eggs

• 2 cups whole milk or half and half

• 1 teaspoon dry mustard

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Brown sausage in a large skillet and drain.

Cut and discard the crust from the bread, arrange in a single layer in a 9” x 13” baking dish sprayed with non-stick cooking spray.

Sprinkle with sausage and cheese.

Christmas Cherry Bread

This tasty loaf is an easy and quick holiday treat perfect for dessert or a party.

Experiment with other extracts and flavors in the glaze, such as vanilla or bourbon, for a different twist. Recipe courtesy of Kara Kimbrough.

For the bread:

• 1/2 cup white sugar

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 1 cup of buttermilk

• 1/4 cup softened butter

• 2 eggs

• 2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted

For the glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1-2 teaspoons milk

• 1 teaspoon almond extract

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, mustard, salt, and pepper. Pour mixture over the sausage and cheese.

Bake at 350 F until set and golden, about 40 minutes. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

• 3 teaspoons baking powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• 1 cup chopped walnuts, lightly toasted

• 10 oz. jar maraschino cherries, drained and halved (reserve juice)

Method:

In a bowl, mix the eggs, sugars, buttermilk and butter. Cream well. Add ¼ cup of the reserved cherry juice.

Tip in the dry ingredients and beat well.

Scrape sides of bowl, then fold in the cherries and walnuts.

Bake in a greased and floured bread pan in a 350 F oven for 60-70 minutes. Cool on rack, then invert onto a serving dish.

Stir the glaze ingredients together in a small bowl; pour over cooled bread.

Music Flashback: Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds

BY: RANDAL C. HILL

Lucy O’Donnell was just four years old when she attended the upscale Heath House School in Weybridge, Surrey, England. One of her best friends there was John Lennon’s son, Julian, who arrived at school each day in a Rolls-Royce.

Years later, in a BBC interview, O’Donnell recalled, “I remember Julian and I both doing pictures on a double-sided easel. Julian painted a picture of me.” The lad’s 5” x 7” paper artwork showed Lucy floating in an orange sky among stars that he called “diamonds.” That afternoon, the boy took his creation home and proudly showed it to his famous dad.

John loved the image and immediately invited partner Paul McCartney over to work up a song inspired by Julian’s artwork. Four days later, the two Beatles had “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds” ready to go.

According to Lennon, the tune had nothing to

do with lysergic acid diethylamide—LSD. “Until somebody pointed it out, I never even thought of it,” he said later. “I mean, who would ever bother to look at the initials of a title?”

As 1974 drew to a close, Elton John’s version of “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds” gave him his third Number One American single when his MCA Records disc topped Billboard’s Hot 100 chart for two weeks. His friend (and the song’s co-creator) John Lennon had provided some guitar work and backup vocals along the way, although the ex-Beatle forgot some chords during the recording session.

Movie Preview: “A Complete Unknown”

BY RANDAL C. HILL

With “A Complete Uknown,” director/screenwriter James Mangold (“Walk the Line”) has focused a white-hot spotlight on 28-year-old Academy Award nominee Timothée Chalamet, who not only sounds eerily like Bob Dylan but also effectively captures his personality— moody, demanding and aggressive. The stellar supporting cast includes Edward Norton, Elle Fanning and Monica Barbaro.

Mangold’s movie brings alive the creative cauldron of early ‘60s Greenwich Village, at the time a thrumming area of New York City being fueled by the growth of folk music that was seeping into the mainstream. A new arrival called himself Bob Dylan, the name having been gleaned from the esteemed Irish poet Dylan Thomas. (At the time, Bob’s real last name was Zimmerman.) As a Hibbing, Minnesota, one-time wannabe rock ‘n’ roller, his Hibbing High classmates would remember him as a music nerd who sometimes sang at school talent shows while occasionally dodging tossed coins and lit firecrackers.

In January 1961, Bob left the University of Minnesota after a restless 18 months. By then, he had forsaken rock ‘n’ roll for folk music, as the latter “simply made

Okay, so “Lucy” wasn’t about drugs, but no one can deny that many of the lyrics are pretty trippy:

Picture yourself in a boat on a river // With tangerine trees and marmalade skies

Somebody calls you, you answer quite slowly // A girl with kaleidoscope eyes

Lucy O’Donnell (later Lucy Vodden) appreciated the Beatles’ music but did once admit, “As a teenager, I made the mistake of telling a couple of friends at school I was the Lucy in the song. They said, ‘No, it’s not about you. My parents said it’s about drugs.’ And I didn’t know what LSD was at the time, so I just kept it quiet, to myself.”

more sense.” Woody Guthrie had become his new hero. (“He was the true voice of the American spirit. I said to myself I was going to be Guthrie’s greatest disciple.”) The aspiring performer adopted much of Woody’s persona and appearance before reinventing himself in Guthrie’s image. Zimmerman hitchhiked to the Big Apple to meet the legend and to begin his own music career.

At Village clubs, Bob became known as a brash young artist who introduced original, unique lyrics that were often more dense poetry than the mere words of a song. Audiences accepted his distinctive nasal twang that one music critic said “sounded like singing sandpaper.” (Dylan smoked four packs of cigarettes a day.)

Mangold adroitly covers the ever-shifting phases of Bob’s early career, from that of unknown folk poet to international rock icon. Mangold’s title “A Complete Unknown” is derived from Dylan’s epochal favorite “Like a Rolling Stone:”

How does it feel // To be without a home

A complete unknown // Like a rolling stone? The movie opens nationwide on Christmas Day.

Armchair Adventures: Brazil: Boat Full of Santas

Twas the day before Christmas, and all through the town

All the helpers were ready, with never a frown.

The boat was loaded with presents with care

Papai Noel and workers would soon be there.

That’s us! We get to be Santa (or Papai Noel) to the children who live on the houseboats on the Amazon River! Papai, the director, was already in the sleigh (actually, a boat), dressed in red with a flowing beard.

In Brazil, Santa Claus, known as Papai Noel, comes from the North Pole and distributes gifts to children. His sleigh is a nice boat; our driver Jao is navigating instead of Donner, Blitzen, and Rudolph. Santa’s helpers –that’s us – slide down the chimney (actually, a ladder) and take their place in the sleigh.

Story and image by Evelyn Kelly, PhD

We are on Rio Negro, and we plan to visit families who live in houseboats docked along the shore. These indigenous communities have lived here for generations, and the families pass down their cultural traditions to younger generations, including language, folklore, and fishing skills.

We are on our way to deliver joy. Our first stop is at a grey tworoom houseboat with a corrugated metal gabled roof. The little girl is about seven with long black hair; she gets a Barbie doll, and her mom gets a wrapped gift. What smiles!

We move on and wave to a family fishing in a long, narrow boat. Papai hails the group over and hands the children stuffed animals.

The waves are calm. What a great day to be Papai’s helper! Next, a nine-year-old boy runs out of the boat house, waving at us and calling for his mother. They were so excited when we handed wrapped gifts to their family.

The next house is not a boat but stationary, built upon a cliff with stilts. The river is unpredictable, so houses built on the river’s edge must be lifted high. This time, a very young mother with six

to all.

One mother in a greenhouse invites us to come in, but Papai graciously declines; we still have much to do. Three boys, ages three, five, and seven, are here. Their eyes lit up when they saw we were giving them soccer balls. More gifts, more visits: then head back to the North Pole (actually, our ship.)

In all our travels, we have never seen such an act of concern and kindness for those living in an area. We were genuinely impressed with the gesture of the staff on this tourist boat to share Christmas with others and joy to the cruise passengers. That night,

Santa’s helpers were all snuggled in their beds

With visions of happy children dancing in their heads.

With her daughter Natalie, Evelyn Kelly is the co-author of the book “Have a Love Affair with Travel: Your Ticket to an Exhilarating Life.” She has been to 88 countries, 50 states, and seven continents.

children greets us beside the river. They smile when he hands the oldest girl a doll and the others wrapped gifts. We wave goodbye

THE HEALTHY GEEZER

Are

Vitamins Worth Taking?

It’s very important to talk with your doctor before you take any vitamin and mineral pills, especially if you take prescription medicines, have any health problems or are elderly. Taking too much of a vitamin or mineral can cause problems with some medical tests or interfere with drugs you’re taking.

Vitamins and minerals are “micronutrients” your body needs in small but steady amounts. Your body can’t make most micronutrients, so you must get them elsewhere.

Vitamins are natural substances found in plants and animals. There are two types of vitamins: water-soluble and fat-soluble.

Water-soluble vitamins are easily absorbed by your body. Unlike fat-soluble vitamins, they don’t have to be absorbed using bile acids (fluids used to digest fats). Your body doesn’t store large amounts of watersoluble vitamins. The water-soluble vitamins you don’t need are removed by your kidneys and come out in your urine.

Your body uses bile acids to absorb fat-soluble vitamins. Once these vitamins are absorbed, your body stores them in body fat. When you need them, your body takes them out of storage to be used.

Here are some water-soluble vitamins: Vitamin C, biotin and the seven B vitamins — thiamin (B-1), riboflavin (B-2), niacin (B-3), pantothenic acid (B-5), pyridoxine (B-6), folic acid (B-9) and cobalamin (B-12).

Here are some fat-soluble vitamins: A, D, E or K.

Minerals come from the earth or from water. Plants and animals absorb them to get nutrients. The “major minerals” are calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, potassium, sulfur and chloride. They are considered major minerals because adults need them in large amounts.

The “trace minerals” are chromium, copper, fluoride, iodine, iron, manganese, molybdenum, selenium and zinc. Your body needs them in smaller amounts.

It would be hard to “overdose” on vitamins or minerals that you get from the foods you eat. But if you take supplements, you can easily take too much. This is even more of a risk if you take fat-soluble vitamins. Whole foods are your best sources of vitamins and minerals. They offer three main benefits over supplements;

They contain a variety of the micronutrients your body needs. An orange, for example, provides vitamin C but also beta carotene, calcium and other nutrients. A vitamin C supplement lacks these other micronutrients.

They provide dietary fiber, which is important for digestion and can help prevent certain diseases such as cancer, diabetes and heart disease. Adequate fiber intake can also help prevent constipation.

They contain other substances such as antioxidants which slow down the natural process that leads to cell and tissue damage.

If you depend on supplements rather than eating a variety of whole foods, you miss the potential benefits of these substances.

For some people, including those on restrictive diets, multivitamin-mineral supplements can provide vitamins and minerals that their diets often don’t. Older people and pregnant women have altered nutrient needs and may also benefit from a supplement.

Send your general health questions to Healthy Geezer with Lifestyles After 50 in the subject line to fred@ healthygeezer.com.

The Healing Power of Holiday Traditions

The holiday season is a time of celebration, warmth, and connection. Beyond the festive decorations, delicious treats, and gift-giving, holiday traditions have a profound impact on our emotional and physical well-being. For many, they provide a sense of continuity, comfort, and joy that can be incredibly healing.

The Joy of Familiar Rituals

Whether it’s decorating the tree with family ornaments or baking your favorite holiday cookies, the familiarity of these rituals brings a sense of comfort and security. Holiday traditions often bring people together, creating special moments with loved ones that reinforce emotional bonds. These shared experiences help reduce feelings of loneliness or stress, promoting mental health and emotional resilience.

Stress Relief Through Fun and Creativity

Whether you're hanging up holiday lights, listening to your favorite holiday tunes, or crafting homemade gifts, these activities spark creativity and benefit your physical and mental health. Participating in holiday traditions can lower cortisol levels, helping to reduce stress and its harmful effects on the body. Activities like decorating, cooking, and gift-wrapping allow you to be present in the moment, providing a mental break and boosting overall well-being.

Reflecting on Gratitude and Giving

Holiday traditions often encourage us to reflect on the past year and express gratitude for the people and blessings in our lives. This practice of gratitude can have powerful benefits for both mental and physical health. Acts of kindness, whether big or small, have been shown to reduce stress, increase happiness, and even boost life expectancy.

As you embrace the joy and healing power of holiday traditions, don’t forget to prioritize your health. Schedule an appointment with your local VIPcare provider and take the first step toward a healthier, happier you this holiday season! Call 941-4215603.

Sights, Sounds, and Sensations: Central Florida’s Festive Charm

By Lori Bruton

This holiday season, awaken your senses and rediscover your childlike spirit! Overflowing with history, charm, and festive delights, the Emerald Coast region offers a memorable medley of joyful activities and meaningful connections.

Begin in Lakeland at Pressed Books and Coffee, where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee sets the tone for a cozy morning. Pair a cup Black Swan Blend with a succulent cinnamon roll from local bakeries Honeycomb and Bandidas. Kaylin Fowler, the friendly owner, can help you find the perfect book. Each page turned stirs up inspiration and anticipation for the day ahead.

wreath tells a unique story, filling the air with holiday cheer and creating a scene that feels like a classic holiday postcard come to life.

Next, head to Ocala’s Winter Wonderland at the World Equestrian Center. Here, the Grand Plaza dazzles with a 60-foot Christmas tree surrounded by oversized ornaments and over a million twinkling lights.

Next, step back in time to the 1920s with a Christmas tour of the Wonder House in Bartow. One floor may be enough as there are many stairs. Built by Conrad Schuck, this architectural marvel is a testament to creativity and resilience. Hoping Florida’s climate would improve his health, Schuck moved his family from Pittsburgh and poured his brilliance into this cross-shaped mansion. From intricate hand-carved woodwork to a series of mirrors that allowed him to see visitors from his outdoor balcony bathtub, every detail of the Wonder House sparks awe. Each floor has a fireplace which evokes warmth throughout and reminds me of the timeless value of preserving family and legacy.

Your journey continues at the Festival of Wreaths at the Polk County History Center, housed in a stunning courthouse from 1908. Each December, its marble halls are adorned with wreaths crafted by local artisans, symbolizing eternal life and faith. Every

Holiday music fills the air as families laugh and explore the festive displays, while the aroma of seasonal treats drifts from nearby cafes. Known as the Horse Capital of the World, Ocala celebrates the strength, grace, and beauty of its equine residents. Visitors can experience this heritage and see the holidays come to life in spectacular fashion that leaves a lasting impression. This isn’t just a holiday attraction, it’s a tribute to Ocala’s equestrian legacy.

For adventure seekers, outdoor offerings provide the restorative power of nature. Glide across the glassy waters in a kayak at KP Hole Park on the Rainbow River, the gentle rhythm of the paddle bringing peace. Or try a boat cruise and get a senior discount at The Living Water Boat Cruises where vibrant greens and calm blues unfold like a watercolor painting, punctuated by the occasional splash of wildlife.

Through it all, one theme comes to light: Central Florida isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience. Its historic treasures, festive celebrations, and natural beauty remind us that the true gift of the season lies in the memories we make and the joy we carry with us long after the holidays.

hoto courtesy of Ocala/Marion County Visitors and Convention Bureau

I am old enough to remember when we had four hair color choices: blonde, brown, black and red. Grey is not a choice. I was born blonde and have adorable baby pictures to prove it. “So why the do it-yourself hair color, Miss Pat?” Instead of turning grey, my hair turned brown. I don’t know why and I don’t care. I will not be a platform for any one product, but I tried one and I didn’t like the results. I now use a different brand and I love it. I also love it when people comment on my hair. Did someone behind the frozen yogurt counter recently say, “I love your hair color; it looks so natural.” Oh. Thanks. She may as well have said, “I love your hair color; it looks so dyed to perfection.”

Born Blonde

By Patricia Finn

Shall we go down haircare memory lane? Let’s start with home perms. Why did our mothers do this and do it to us their innocent, loving daughters? How well I remember going into the school bathroom to find my friend Cathy wearing a scarf and crying because her second-grade teacher wouldn’t let her wear a scarf in class. Underneath? Curls, curls, and more curls. Her mom had given her the home perm. It was a terrible season in female childhood. Every day there was another casualty, and we could only stare and shake our heads knowing our turn would come too.

Then we went from curls to straight. The word was out. Someone had ironed her hair. How dare she? What a rebel. The next day, we were all doing it. You set the iron on low, bend your head down to the ironing board and using a protective cloth you ironed it straight. So easy. That was also the year that one friend went blonde using Clorox. The

results were questionable.

Far be it from me to brag but I was one of the first to curl my hair; nobody used rollers in the fifth grade but Miss Prissy Pat. And today? I cut my own hair. I part it in the back, pull it forward in two bunches and snip. When I told this to one of my son’s friends her reply was, “That’s very Little House on The Prairie.” That’s not necessarily the look I am after but if it is Little House on The Prairie it is Little House on The Prairie. I was hoping for something a little more sophisticated. Cottage In the Pines? Chateau By the Sea?

But that’s it, my bathroom sink and me, La Salon. I don’t have the patience to sit and get my hair done and well, it is just too similar to being at the dentist. I am sitting and you are standing and it’s the body language. “A drill, fill and a trim, please.”

Cuts

ANSWER TO #5138

ANSWER TO #5189

Ft. Myers

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

ACROSS

1. Bargain-hunt

5. Fog

1. Barbecue 6. Amount to be swallowed 10. Roman statesman 14. Street show 15. Sinfulness 16. Spoken 17. Over 18. Box material 20. Rec room 21. Good buy 23. Sea plants 24. Jack & Jill’s destination 25. Girls’ names 27. Sharp weapons 30. Inter __; among other things

9. Read __; recite

14. Novel setting

15. Of the U.S.A.

16. Rent long-term

17. Of a generation

18. Pocket bread

19. Procrastinator’s word

20. Warm lunch

23. Originally named

24. Call a halt to

25. Nemesis

28. Rhythm

32. Cuts

34. Lament

31. Wonderful, for short 34. Cosmetics brand

35. Bee colony

35. Straighten

37. “Ah, me!”

36. Everyone

38. Character in Othello

DOWN

1. Heavenly Mlles.

1. Alum

2. Nag

DOWN 1. State 2. Office cabinet

2. Become furious

3. Islamic nation

3. Not just tacit

3. Misfortunes

4. Mom, dad, or madam

4. Garland of flowers

4. Coat part 5. Hide preparers

5. Take place

5. Bank, for some

6. Sticker

6. Friend at the école

6. Creator

Tom Golisano announces transformational gifts of $85 million to 41 nonprofits across Southwest Florida

7. Greek letter

7. Geometric shape

7. Enthusiastic

8. Expunge

8. Polite person s word

9. Refer

37. Carefree, sociable fellow

39. West Point student

41. German article

42. Hold in awe

40. Out of __; behaving inappropriately

43. Confused

41. Word with stick or roll

44. Streets: abbr.

45. Impudent

42. One who acts like another

46. Street-corner preacher’s cry

43. Lets

Ardent

48. majesty

49. Corrosion

44. Evaluate

50. Muslim leader: var.

Fascination 51. Rejected with disdain

46. Pillages

Lotion ingredient

53. Kick the ball away, in football

48. Do a hairdresser’s job

51. Building site

8.6th day of Lent: abbr.

9. Hookandlineuser

9. Days of yore 10. Chills

10. Embraced

10. Spring

11. Limp as 12. O’Hara estate

11. Bit of cereal

11. Cosmetic case item

12. Put underground

13. Ancient, once

12. Take advantage of

In late November, Tom Golisano – entrepreneur, the founder of Paychex, philanthropist, and civic leader – announced a series of major gifts totaling $85 million to 41 nonprofits across Southwest Florida.

13. German article

13. Beauty s movie partner

21. Article of faith

19. Popular fruit 22. Golfer Ernie

21. High schooler

22. Start

23. “...__ by your outfit that you are...”

24. Go on one’s way

25. Cat

26. Praying figures

27. Winding roads

49. Follower of 7 Down

54. President Buchanan’s successor, familiarly

Force into an awkward position 56. Gives up

57. Ruling families

52. Admirable people who influence others

60. Sea eagles

58. William and Sean

62. Word with gum or rain

Asia s __ Mountains 61. Tract of wasteland 63. Place to spend rupees

61. Reddish-brown animal

63. Gaelic

64. Light, rhythmic tune

62. Tack

65. Pro s foe

64. Prices per hour

63. Gladden

66.Lacks

65. Back talk

64. “__ Wonderful Life”

67. Flower

66. Town in New Mexico

65. Slave of old

68. Schnozzola

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

67. North Carolina or South Carolina

66. Chihuahua children

67. Late actor Bert

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

ACROSS

1. Bargain-hunt 5. Fog 9. Read __; recite 14. Novel setting 15. Of the U.S.A.

Rent long-term

Of a generation

Pocket bread 19. Procrastinator’s word

Warm lunch 23. Originally named 24. Call a halt to

Nemesis

Rhythm

Cuts 34. Lament 35. Bee colony

37. “Ah, me!”

38. Character in Othello

39. West Point student

44. Streets: abbr.

40. Out of __; behaving inappropriately

45. Impudent

41. Word with stick or roll

48. majesty

42. One who acts like another

49. Corrosion

43. Lets

42. Seasons 44. Surrenders 46. Poet s contraction 47. Ardent 49. Fascination 51. Rejectedwithdisdain

46. Street-corner preacher’s cry

50. Muslim leader: var.

44. Evaluate

53. Kick the ball away, in football

46. Pillages

48. Do a hairdresser’s job

54. President Buchanan’s successor, familiarly

Lotion ingredient 55. Force into an awkward position 56. Gives up

49. Follower of 7 Down

51. Building site

57. Ruling families

60. Sea eagles

62. Word with gum or rain

63. Gaelic

58. William and Sean

61. Reddish-brown animal

64. Prices per hour 65. Back talk

62. Tack

63. Gladden

66. Town in New Mexico

64. “__ Wonderful Life”

Asia s __ Mountains 61. Tract of wasteland 63. Place to spend rupees 64. Light, rhythmic tune 65. Pro s foe 66.Lacks 67. Flower 68. Schnozzola 69. Meadow covering

52. Admirable people who influence others

67. North Carolina or South Carolina DOWN

65. Slave of old

66. Chihuahua children

67. Late actor Bert

68. Worry

Alum

DOWN

2. Become furious

1. State 2. Office cabinet

3. Islamic nation

1. Heavenly Mlles.

3. Misfortunes

4. Garland of flowers

2. Nag

4. Coat part

5. Bank, for some

3. Not just tacit

5. Hide preparers

6. Sticker

4. Mom, dad, or madam

25. Had a meal 26. Keep __ on; watch carefully

25. Lewis Carroll s heroine 26. Near 27. More learned 28. Sidestep

28. Rough

27. Taj Mahal scity

28. Bride s item

29. Welcome blessings 30. On the ball

29. Part of summer

30. Fellow

29. Flamingoorheron

31. Sea duck

32. Cutintosmallpieces 34.In __ of

31. School test answer 32. Strange 33. Ovine cry

33. Certain love messages

34. Fictional king

Always 36. France s Coty 38. Sermon topic

35. Love: It. 38.

36. Miles, e.g.

39. Tosses

40. Bargains

43. Not crackers 45.Like a hill

45. Sight and taste

47. Existing on a flat surface

43. Public disturbance

48. Bach or Wagner 50. Like more expensive hamburger 51.Dandruff site 52. Salk’s concern

50. Fourth page of a wall hanging

52. Preposition

Europe/Asia boundary

Nest 56. Periods

#5139

53. Insignificant amount

54. Complaint to a dermatologist

55. Hot spot

Conception 58. Disencumbers 59. Brat’s talk

56. PM; 2100 hours

57. Did in

58. Item in a desk drawer

59. Mr. Whitney

60. Girl’s nickname

The awards, which range from $150,000 to $10 million, are being made to diverse causes meaningful to Golisano. The unrestricted gifts will be paid over four to five years. Recipients include Naples Comprehensive Health, Goodwill Industries of Southwest Florida, the humane societies of Manatee and Sarasota counties, and the American Red Cross of Southwest Florida.

Tom Golisano announced in November his second series of major gifts totaling $85 million to 41 nonprofit organizations across Southwest Florida. For the complete list, visit GolisanoFoundation.org.

5. Take place

6. Creator 7. Enthusiastic

7. Geometric shape

6. Friend at the école

8. Polite person’s word

8.6th day of Lent: abbr.

7. Greek letter

9. Days of yore

10. Chills

8. Expunge

11. Limp as

9. Refer

12. O’Hara estate

11. Cosmetic case item

13. Ancient, once

12. Put underground

10. Spring

11. Bit of cereal

19. Popular fruit

13. Beauty s movie partner

“One of my favorite sayings is ‘the only wealth you keep is that which you give away,’ and this year I’ve decided to act on that saying. Thanks to the success of Paychex and its employees I can make it my reality. I’m glad to provide support to nonprofits across Southwest Florida, where I now call home,” said Golisano. “There are so many nonprofit organizations in this region doing great work... I hope this unexpected funding helps them broaden their impact and strengthen their organizations so they can expand their services and those they serve.”

12. Take advantage of

21. Article of faith

22. Golfer Ernie

13. German article

24. Go on one’s way

21. High schooler

23. “...__ by your outfit that you are...”

25. Lewis Carroll’s heroine

25. Had a meal

22. Start

26. Near

26.

25. Cat

27. More learned

The awards bring Golisano’s philanthropy this year to half a billion dollars and his life-long philanthropy to $860 million.

28. Sidestep

26. Praying figures

27. Taj Mahal s city

29. Welcome blessings

27. Winding roads

28. Bride s item

30. On the ball

28. Rough

29. Flamingo or heron

29. Part of summer

31. School test answer

32. Cut into small pieces

30. Fellow

32. Strange

31. Sea duck

33. Ovine cry

34.In __ of 35. Always

35. Love: It.

33. Certain love messages

36. France s Coty

38. Slender candles

“We encourage nonprofit organizations to visit our website to learn more about Tom’s philanthropy and the Foundation’s mission,” said Erica Dayton, executive director of the Golisano Foundation, which Mr. Golisano founded in 1985. It has awarded more than $41 million in grants, primarily to organizations devoted to supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and animal welfare charities.

39. 3/15

34. Fictional king

36. Miles, e.g.

38. Sermon topic 40. Bargains

40. Very attentive

39. Tosses

43. Not crackers

46. Race

43. Public disturbance

45.Like a hill

47. Organic compounds

48. Bach or Wagner

45. Sight and taste

48. Hops

50. Like more

49. Tricks

47. Existing on a flat surface

50. up; makes sense

51. “__ Breckinridge”

50. Fourth page of a wall hanging

52. Son of Seth

52. Preposition

53. Mexico’s dollar

53. Insignificant amount

54. Square column

55. Red edible

54. Complaint to a dermatologist

56. Being: Lat.

55. Hot spot

58. Vietnamese holiday

56. PM; 2100 hours

59. Gershwin

57. Did in

61. Untrustworthy one

58. Item in a desk drawer

59. Mr. Whitney

60. Girl’s nickname

Ms. Dayton added, “We look forward to the new influx of agencies we’ll be introduced to through the widespread news of Tom’s most recent giving. Understanding the needs of the communities we support and the organizations that devote their expertise to serving them is a constantly evolving process. We are always looking to learn more and determine how we can be supportive.”

Tom Golisano is the founder of Paychex, Inc., the nation’s largest human resource company for small to medium-sized businesses. Through the Golisano Foundation, he has dedicated more than $145 million to advancing inclusive health around the world, especially for people with intellectual disabilities. Mr. Golisano is the author of two books, “Built Not Born,” and “The Italian Kid Did It.” Find out more at GolisanoFoundation.org.

Jacqueline F. O’Keffe,

John Spencer, Sun

Center

BOOK REVIEW by Kathy A. Megyeri

“100 Years of Grand Ole Opry, A Celebration of the Artists, the Fans and the Home of County Music” by the Members of the Grand Ole Opry and Craig Shelburne with Brenda Colladay, Abrams Books

If you’ve ever been to Nashville and have either attended a performance or walked up to the stage on a tour of the Ryman Auditorium theatre, you feel like you are standing on sacred ground. The Grand Ole Opry is about to celebrate 100 years, and this official book gives fans a behind-thecurtains look at never-before seen photos and with written tributes in a gorgeously illustrated volume.

Since 1925, this longestrunning radio broadcast in U.S. history – which began as an impromptu performance of old-time fiddle tunes –made country music famous and helped the careers of Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, Carrie Underwood and Luke Combs. The Opry not only popularized the country music genre but preserved its history and made it a valued part of the nation’s history.

their upcoming appearances and then label themselves as Grand Ole Opry members on their promotional materials so ticket sales increased for their own shows.

The requirements for membership are the artists’ overall talent and potential, their commitment to country music, rapport with others, and the response from the audience. In the beginning, the Opry had a cast of regulars; Uncle Dave Macon was the most famous as recorded in a 1928 souvenir group photo. Cast members were expected to appear every Saturday night. Performers could advertise

The Opry’s founder was George D. Hay and as the show gained popularity, performers were added to the cast and they became even more popular thanks to WSM-AM, a 50,000watt radio station. By the late l940s, members had radio experience and recording contracts and names like Bill Monroe, Minnie Pearl and Ernest Tubb became household names. In 1985, the show came to TV and Reba McEntire was introduced that year as a new member. In the 1990s, Clint Black, Garth Brooks, Vince Gill and Alan Jackson were featured. When a member was inducted beginning in 2001, a 14” replica of an old Opry microphone stand containing a small piece of wood from the original Ryman Auditorium pews was given to the performer and this award continues to be presented to inductees.

This showcase, coffee-table book is already available for pre-order (delivery in April 2025) and would make a treasured gift for any fan of country music and especially for anyone who’s paid a visit to the Ryman Auditorium’s Grand Ole Opry and wants to re-live that memorable visit.

Last Month’s Answers

SUDOKU

Sudoku

Sudoku requires no arithmetic skills.

Last Month’s Winner is Carol Sands, Port Charlotte Congr atuL ations ! Good Luck! Good Luck!

The object of the game is to fill all the blank squares with the correct numbers.

Win Great Prizes!

APRIL W ord Sea rch

September Word Search

WORD SEARCH

In the grid below, twenty answers can be found that fit the category for today. Circle each answer that you find and list it in the space provided at the right of the grid. Answers can be found in all directions forwards, backwards, horizontally, vertically and diagonally. An example is given to get you started. Can you find the

In the grid below, twenty answers can be found that fit the category for today. Circle each answer that you find and list it in the space provided at the right of the grid. Answers can be found in all directions –forwards, backwards, horizontally, vertically and diagonally. An example is given to get you started. Can you find the twenty answers in this puzzle?

Each row of 9 numbers must include all digits1through9inanyorder. Each column of 9 numbers must include all digits 1 through 9 in any order. Each 3 by 3 subsection of the 9 by 9 square must include all digits 1 through 9.

New winner selected each month

Each row of 9 numbers must include all digits 1 through 9 in any order. Each column of 9 numbers must include all digits 1 through 9 in any order. Each 3 by 3 subsection of the 9 by 9 square must include all digits 1 through 9.

APRIL

Sudoku

Sudoku requires no arithmetic skills The object of the game is to fill all the blank squares with the correct numbers. Each row and each column of 9 numbers must include all digits 1 through 9 in any order. Each 3 by 3 subsection of the 9 by 9 square must include all digits 1 through 9 as well. Good luck! The first correct answers selected from the drawing on the 20th will win.

Send your answers along with your name, address, telephone number & email to:

Lifestyles After 50 P.O. BOX 638, SEFFNER, FL 33583

WIN GREAT PRIZES! Sudoku mu ST b E RE c EI v E d by T h E 20T h of T h E mo NT h.

ANSWERS

Send your answers along with your name, address, email and telephone number to: LIFESTYLES AFTER 50 P.O. BOX 638, SEFFNER, FL 33583

The first correct answers selected from the drawing on the 20th of the month will win. WIN! WIN! WIN! GREAT PRIZES! (Puzzles must be received by the 20th of the month)

TriviaPalooza!

Trivia Palooza

: Play each month to be entered in a drawing to win a prize! Deadline for entries: September 25th Mary Tursellino, Port Charlotte was last months winner! Last month’s answer: NORAD, Col. Harry Shoup. The more you play the better chance you have to win! Go to LifestylesAfter50.com

Christmas Trivia.

Movie Trivia

What are the dying words of Charles Foster Kane in Citizen Kane?

What is located at the northernmost point on earth where all longitudinal lines meet?

QuestIoN: NAtIoNAL grANdPAreNts dAy Is sePtember 13. WhAt Is the offIcIAL soNg ANd offIcIAL fLoWer for thIs NAtIoNAL dAy of observANce?

What was the first feature-length animated movie ever released?

ANsWer:

What was the 1st Christmas carol broadcast from space? What date? Answer & submit these trivia question to win a prize

Who played the protagonist ‘Rose’ in the famous 90’s movie Titanic?

Tonda Parish, Riverview was our November winner!

Lastmonth's

Nichole Veesaert, Apollo Beach

Josephine Jimenez, N. Ft. Myers

David Kurman, The Villages

Seniors getting Together

WOMEN SEEKING MEN

4907 - SWF. 59 yo, 5’9”, 160 lbs, smoker, blonde hair, blue eyes. I like shing, movies, traveling, dancing, good food. Seeks SWM who likes the same.

5618 – VENICE SENIORS SINGING TOGETHER. Wanna sing? Men and ladies welcome to sing four-part harmony with the Venice Gondolier Singers Chorus. No previous musical experience required. Just having fun. 941-953-3752.

5409 - WRETCHED old hagg seeking miserable old troll. If U respond U obviously have a sense of humor & R adventurous. I’m 76, blonde, petite, earthy, easy to B with. Love singing, dancing, biking, cooking, vintage cars & vintage men. Must have a little class & a lot of character.

5626 – SHW LOOKING FOR COMPANIONSHIP I am new to Florida, 59 years young. Looking for a FF SOH male. Likes, relaxing on the beach, music, fishing, camping, flea markets. NS - No drugs - TLC. I am 5.1 and 155 lbs. - Parrish

5422 - VERY PRETTY WWF ISO FF. Long blonde hair, youthful 60’s, 5’4”, slim, ND, NS. Fine dining, dancing, theatre, travel. Looking for retired W gentleman, 5’9”, 6575, HWP, SOH. Will speak soon. Send photo & phone.

5635 – SWF RETIRED, SECURE, 80YY ISO trustworthy, honest man NS-ND. Enjoy quiet times, pleasant conversation, dining out, social gatherings and listening to music. I share piano music as a pianist. Friendly and fun. Sarasota area.

5436 - TAMPA VETERAN NEEDS COMPANION QUICKLY. SW, 60, looking for healthy, W, 45-65 for LTR. Need compuer operations, applications expert and handy homemaker. Quiet music, parks, swimming, local touring. Veteran literary a plus. Tampa.

5427 - SEEKING SINCERE, HONEST GENTLEMAN. I’m 70s, HWP, NS, ND, like to meet SWM with same interest for LTR. Laid back, no drama. Like animals. Hillsborough & Pasco.

5628 – NEW TO FL Looking to fall in love one more time. R-63 YY. 5’2” 160 lbs. blonde hair, blue eyes SF. Enjoys walks, sunsets, dining out, traveling SOH, NS, SD, NDRG. Looking for WM, SD, NDRG. Must know how to treat a lady. Age doesn’t matter. Let’s give it a try!

MEN SEEKING WOMEN

5419 - HAVE A NICE DAY. SWF, 75 yo, 5’5”, slender, brunette, green eyes, adventurous, love walks, parks, outdoors, healthy food. Am happy, loving, kind. LTR, intimacy? Have photo. Tampa.

4119 - Seeking Honest gentleman. Former airline stewardess and model, 5’4”, 104 lbs., slender, white with Ph.D. in healthcare. Fulbright scholar, eats healthy and exercises. Likes sports and animals. WW. Loves the Lord. Florida.

5620 – ELDERLY, AFFLUENT, nice looking professional WWM seeking 40-50 trim SWF. Enjoys theater, travel, dinner with wine + conversation in condo overlooking Sarasota Bay. Send photo(s) + resume.

MEN SEEKING WOMEN

5411 - BM seeks LTR with 50-65 yr old woman of character. I am 6’0”, 180 lbs, 60 year old. NS. Children are adults. Free to travel. I am a one woman man. Race is not an issuecharacter is!

5622 – HI – A VERY MATURE W, M, 140 lb., white hair, brown eyes, of reasonable looks, 5’8”. In Tampa. NS, SD only. Shall we meet for coffee, and see? Yes, my parents are of Italian descent, but born in the USA. Seeking H, W, P, lady who is mobile and likes life, but wants more. Trump can offer a better life. Now you know how I think.

5407 - ISO BF, 50+, slender build who likes to read, go out to eat, movies, laid back, enjoys laughter & is drama free. Look forward to hearing from you. I am a WM, 5’11”, 155 lbs, NS and drama free.

5415 - M, WW, NS, SD, HWP, P, FF, likes cards, walks, cooking, travel, fun.

5630 – LOOKING FOR FEMALE COMPANION I’m 80, YY, SD, SM, LTR, FF, TLC. I like fishing, golf, going to the beach, spending time with family, watching TV, watching movies cuddling on sofa. Romantic. She should like the same, plus some of her own. Lehigh Acres

seeking t, attractive, female. Very handsome, very t senior. 5’11”, 175, blue eyes, silver hair. Let’s enjoy life’s pleasures. Dunedin.

5642 SWM – Y 71 SOH, open-minded. ISO fun HWP F for ST LT. 33701, W, NS, ND. I'm fun, enjoy dancing, cuddling, affection. Outdoors, walking , holding hands, karaoke, romantic movies, much more. Not into sports.

5417 - PINELLAS PARK, FUN LOVING SWM, seeking SWW to enjoy sports activities, bridge, dominoes, pinochle and swimming at Mainlands. I’m 88 and very active. Looking for SWW over 70. I’m 6’3”, 235 lbs and a dancer. Pinellas Park.

5646 YOU AND ME – TOGETHER? –Do you like happy hour, restaurants, the Elks, American Legion, movies, TV, shopping, kissing, holding hands? Then how about me? I am a SWM, 70s, 5’6”. NS, ND. SOH with a black tabby cat and great condo. ISO a SWF or Asian, fun SOH, easy-going, smiles and enjoys life. NS, ND. Pinellas Park area. Please be local. Till we meet, have a great day.

5647 SEARCHING FOR A NICE WOMAN – Optimistic, 5’8” NS, ND into health and longevity. Like smiles, especially from the heart. Giving contempt the boot! Practicing love is easier. Join me. New Port Richey area.

To PLACe An AD: Send your ad, stating what edition(s) you would like it placed in, along with a $6 fee for 30 words (25¢ for each additional word, abbreviations not charged) to the Lifestyles After 50 address listed below. Ads received by the 15th of the month will appear in the following issue.

To ReSPonD To An AD: Write a letter to the person you want to contact. Place that letter in a stamped envelope and write the ad # on the bottom left hand side of the envelope. Place your stamped, numbered envelope(s), along with $2 for each letter enclosed, into another envelope and address it to: Lifestyles After 50 Seniors Getting Together P.O. Box 638, Seffner, FL 33583

CommonLY USeD ABBReViATionS:

F-Female, M-Male, S-Single, D-Divorced, WWWidow, A-Asian, B-Black, H-Hispanic, I-Indian, W-White, C-Christian, J-Jewish, YO-Years Old, YY-Years Young, ISO-In Search Of, SOH-Sense Of Humor, SM-Smokes, S-Light Smoker, NSNon Smoker, ND-Non Drinker, SD-Social (Light) Drinker, DR-Drinks, NDrg- No Drugs, LTR-Long Term Relationship, HWP-Height & Weight Proportional, R-Retired, P-Professional, FF-Friendship First, TLC-Tender Loving Care.

Seniors Getting Together

5425 - SINCERE CHRISTIAN WOMAN desires C-man who really loves God and is active, lives a healthy life, helps his neighbor, enjoys nature (including picnics), canoeing and a friend to all animals. I’m all of the above. I’m a W ,etite lady with long hair and chearful. Age 60’s, Age preferred: Mid 50’s and up. I live in Hillsborough County. Please write me, tell me about yourself.

5424 - HI, Lonely guy, WM, 5’8”, 160 lbs, a young mid-seventies, NS, NS, t, active and adventuresome. Seeks lady, mid-sixties to early seventies, HWP, exercises, possible romance, LTR. Let’s be happy and celebrate life.

5639 – SENIOR GAL, 71 with natural (not enhanced). Drive, ambition, enthusiasm, stamina, seeking guy with the same temperament. Apollo Beach

5640 82 YEARS OLD – Looking 40, feeling 30. Very active. Dance, exercise and travel. Seeking a younger man 45 to 65. Athletic fit and willing to take care of all my needs. Tampa

5431 – LONELY WWF, looking for love & companion. Man should be 70 to 80 yrs old. I am nancially secure, have a car & condo. I live in N. St. Pete.

5643 SWCF. VERY LONELY. – ISO N/S man who can slow dance. I go to Elks, Moose and Eagles. I have a condo near Bay Pines. I’m 85 years old 5’6” tall and enjoys day trips. Leave a message. St Pete.

5429 - HERE, DURING COVID-19 IN S. FT. MYERS. ISO friendship only with W, widower in early 80’s. SOH, honest, NS. I am W, WW, HWP, attractive & intellgent. Please respond with phone/email. Be safe & well.

5393 - SWM, 69, 5’11”, AVG. Hair black, thinning, DAV, honest, sincere, relocated Hudson. Retired Leo. ISO WHF, widow preferred, attractive, sm. butt, NS, ND, handy homemaker, intimacy yes, no baggage, drama.

5428 - M, WW, NS, SD, HWP, R, TLC, 70’s. Likes sharing many activities together, quiet evenings; be adventurous.

5629 – WANT TO TAKE A TRIP TO ALASKA? Fly there and back, motorhome camping & Jeep waiting for us there, sightseeing & fishing. I am 86 YY, WM,WW, C,NS, 5’9” 165 lbs, SOH. Excellent health, very active. Southern country gentleman. I'm looking for a long-term companion to finish our life's journey. I've been a home & business owner in Tampa for over 60 yrs . I am an active and healthy person looking for similar qualities in a partner. I have all my own teeth and hair too. Give me a call and maybe we can have some fun. Marvin

5426 - EASY GOING MAN. I’m 69, 140 lbs, 5’7”, widower, lives alone. Seeking other gentlemen for friendship, to get together and enjoy each other’s company. Will answer alll.

(First 4 Words)

5644 PLANT CITY WIDOW – A Plant City widow who misses her longtime husband and best friend. Searching for a white easy-going male in his 70s to meet and start a friendship with and perhaps lead to a longtime companion to share my life with. Plant City

5413 - WW ISO BUDDY, FRIEND to pal around with who’s about my age, 80’s, gal or guy with SOH. Good health, nancially secure to have fun & enjoy life. No Trumpers or religious zealots please. Let the good times roll.

5638 – HELLO. SWM SEEKING petite relocatable gal to be my companion, best friend, life partner and lover. I’m secure, easy going, loving and romantic. NS, ND. 5’7” 150lbs. Share my life and home. Save that rent. Send photo and phone number please. No pets.

5369 – Looking For Ms Right. Retired New York Attorney, former New York Police O cer, looking for loving relationship with kind and sincere, self-caring lady. 65 – 75. Widow preferred. Clearwater area.

(No Charge)

5624 SEARCHING FOR LTR – N/S. I enjoyed the simple pleasures in life. Looking for someone to share it all with. Age and looks are not important. Will answer all. Palmetto

5412 - LOOKING FOR ADVENTEROUS WOMAN. SWM, NS, healthy, retired, enjoys country music, home cooking, day trips to scenic attractions, sun rises, sunsets, movies, walks in the park. For more info, write me. Pinellas County.

5416 - LOOKING FOR COMPANION. SWM

Name: Address:

Phone: Email: If more room is needed, please use separate sheet. Mail this form along with $6 for each ad per month (add $4 for each additional edition/market in the same month). We cannot accept your ad without it. This information is conﬁdential.

State:

Social Security Q&A

Information

from Social Security Administration

HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM SOCIAL SECURITY

We hope your holidays are filled with joy and warmth. During this and every season, we want you to know that we are here to serve you. Did you know that our online services are available to help you do business with us in an easy, convenient, and secure way?

You can create a personal my Social Security account online to:

• Apply for retirement, spouse, or disability benefits.

• Request a replacement Social Security card.

• Check your application or appeal status.

• Request a name change (in some cases you may have to visit your local office).

If you receive benefits, you can use your personal my Social Security account to:

• Change your address. (Social Security benefits only)

• Change your direct deposit information. (Social Security benefits only)

• Instantly get proof of benefits.

• Print your SSA-1099.

If you do not receive Social Security benefits, you can use a personal my Social Security account to:

• Get personalized retirement, spouse, or disability benefit estimates.

• Get your Social Security Statement.

• Get instant proof that you do not receive benefits.

You can use these services on the go or from the comfort of your home. Please visit www.ssa.gov/myaccount to view the services available to you.

If you cannot use our online services, you may be able to use our automated telephone services by calling 1-800-772-1213. Automated services are always available.

Have a safe, happy holiday season and know that we are here for you.

AROUND TOWN

DECEMBER 3: HOLIDAY TASTE OF OPERA

The Isles Club, 1780 W. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda

DECEMBER 5: HOLIDAY TASTE OF OPERA

Club at the Stand, 5840 Strand Blvd., Naples

DECEMBER 6: TOMMY EMMANUEL

Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW, 13350 FSW Pkwy., Fort Myers

DECEMBER 6: HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING

Bell Tower, 13499 S. Cleveland Ave. #227, Fort Myers

DECEMBER 7: TROPICAL HOLIDAY PARADE

Coconut Point, 23106 Fashion Dr., Estero

DECEMBER 8: PRIDE PARADE

Center for the Performing Arts, 10150 Bonita Beach, Bonita Springs

DECEMBER 14: LEE COUNTY HEART WALK

Centennial Park, 2000 W. 1st St., Fort Myers

DECEMBER 14: 46 TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS PARADE

Charlotte Performing Arts Center, 701 Carmalita St., Punta Gorda

DECEMBER 14-30: FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS

Fishermen’s Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda

DECEMBER 15: INDIAN FOOD SOCIAL

Spice Club Indian Grill, 18011 S. Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers

DECEMBER 16: FOOD TRUCK NIGHTS

River Hall and Hampton, 3500 River Hall Pkwy., Alva

DECEMBER 18: MARKETING MANIA

Discovery Commons S. Biscayne, 6235 Hoffman St., North Port

DECEMBER 18: MINDI ABAIR

Charlotte Harbor Event Center, 75 Taylor St., Punta Gorda

DECEMBER 21: COMPTON & BENNETT - HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Center for the Performing Arts, 10150 Bonita Beach, Bonita Springs

DECEMBER 28: 14 TH ANNUAL COCONUT POINT ART FESTIVAL

Art Festival, 23130 Fashion Dr., Estero

DECEMBER 28: FARMER’S MARKET

Promenade at Bonita Springs, 26795 S. Bay Dr., Bonita Springs

DECEMBER 31: CHARLOTTE COUNTY FAIR

Charlotte County Fair, 2333 El Jobean Rd., Port Charlotte

DECEMBER 31: LETTING THE DOGS OUT W/BAHA MEN

Downtown, 10 SW. 10th Terrace, Cape Coral