Lifestyles After 50 Southwest Edition, December 2023 by Lifestyles After 50 Magazine

SOUTHWEST EDITION ~ DECEMBER 2023 Florida’s Most Read 50+ Publication Since 1989

FREE Take One Home!

LifestylesAfter50.com Volume 34 Issue 12

8 Florida Christmas Traditions, p. 8

Where did “Silent Night” begin?, p. 15

Successful Solo Travel, p. 16

Articles in each issue: • Local news • Health & events • Recipe • Humor • Book Review

vip missing

Lifestyles After 50 • December 2023 • 2

Florida: Winter Wonderland? Although Florida is primarily known for its warm, white sand beaches and perfect picnic weather, TheTravel. com recently released an article called “10 Most Beautiful Places in Florida to Visit That Photo by James Patterson Actually Feel Like A Winter Wonderland.” This fun article by Rehan Braylon rates three of the top 10 cities in the Lifestyles After 50 readership area! Whether you want to marvel at holiday decorations, go ice skating outdoors, or stroll around quaint towns full of twinkling lights, these Florida locales will make you feel like you are in a winter wonderland. 10 - Orlando The world-famous theme parks transform into winter wonderlands with special holiday attractions and shows. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party allows access to Disney parks for festive entertainment after hours. Enjoy incredibly detailed Christmas decor and themed treats like hot Butterbeer at Universal’s Islands of Adventure. Gaylord Palms Resort hosts ICE! - a dazzling exhibit of ice sculptures. Their Christmas Town event includes ice tubing and live shows. SeaWorld presents a Christmas Celebration with roller coasters, shows, Santa meet-and-greets, and a sea of decorative lights. 8 - Tampa From dazzling light displays to Christmas villages and festivals, Tampa knows how to deck the halls. The centerpiece is the Downtown Tampa Christmas

Tree towering over Curtis Hixon Park as the Riverwalk lights up along the Hillsborough River. At the Florida State Fairgrounds, Snowfest transforms an area into a winter wonderland with real falling snow. Enjoy light displays synchronized to holiday music, snow tubing, ice skating, and photos with Santa at his outpost. Under the dome at Tropicana Field, Enchant Christmas features a festive light maze and ice-skating trail. Historic Ybor City gets into the holiday spirit with the Holly Jolly Trolley for festive drinks, live music, and light displays along 7th Ave. 5 - Naples Naples’ mild winter weather still allows holiday magic. The centerpiece is the lavish Christmas tree display at Cambier Park along the Naples Pier. Over 100,000 twinkling lights illuminate palm trees and the boardwalk. Nearby, the Baker Museum puts on an immersive light show synchronized to holiday classics on their facade. Tinsel Together at the Conservancy Nature Center decks out the trails and gardens in winter cheer lights. Downtown 3rd Street South comes alive with elegant holiday decorations, carolers, and festive ambiance. Beyond the lights, Naples offers holiday boat parades, seasonal shows at Artis—Naples, holiday concerts from the Naples Philharmonic, and Christmas events at top resorts like The RitzCarlton.

Lifestyles After 50 Volume 34, Issue 12 Published by Connected Community Media Group Publisher@lifestylesafter50.com Editor Michele Baker Michele.Baker@lifestylesafter50.com Website Editor Allie Shaw Allie.Shaw@lifestylesafter50.com Distribution Distribution@lifestylesafter50.com 813-336-8247 Questions/Customer Service 813-336-8247 Press Releases Editor@lifestylesafter50.com Advertising Sales Sales: (813) 336-8247 Ext. 2 Sales@lifestylesafter50.com Nancy Cotto Nancy.Cotto@lifestylesafter50.com Aspen Hansen: (813) 336-8247 Ext. 2 Aspen.Hansen@lifestylesafter50.com Joe Gess: 813-817-9855 Joe.Gess@lifestylesafter50.com Mervyn Hollander Mervyn.Hollander@lifestylesafter50.com Jim Commiskey: Jim.Commiskey@lifestylesafter50.com

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Until the next time,

Have a great month and we'll see you in January!

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Lifestyles After 50 • December 2023 • 3

The Magic of Christmas BY JAN LARRAINE COX

As a little child, I was enthralled with Christmas lights and the mysterious, wrapped presents under the tree. I searched the faces of the adults in the room, all dressed in their holiday finest. The magic of Christmas, the miracle of Baby Jesus: somebody will surely explain it to me? But no, I’m on my own to figure it out. It must have something to do with music, because wherever I look on TV there are brass bands and drum rolls, synchronized step dancers in color coordinated outfits leaping on stage among fir trees. The fife and drum corps enter playing holiday music accentuated by flutes and piccolos.

the comic strip character. My aunt is an artist! Decades later, the doll survives unscathed because I have always kept her safe on my guest bed, and away from kids who might play rough. Valerie’s gift is the Tinker Toys she asked for from Santa. But how did he know where to buy it? How does he find all the gifts for children worldwide in time for Christmas? Well, the elves made at the North Pole, we are told (further proving to us the magic of Christmas).

After the adults opened their presents, it was time to go into the dining room for the most spectacular meal of the whole year. Grandma’s homemade bread, My little sister Valerie is about to have her second based on the family’s European recipe, is a highlight birthday, and she is caught up in the magic and mystery of the meal. After we all had turkey, dressing, mashed of Christmas. The adults seem grateful we little ones are potatoes, sweet potatoes, Grandma’s bread and butter, here and the excitement starts to build. Aunt Rosy hands tossed salad, green beans, cranberry mold salad, and me a gift to unwrap. Everyone is watching and a surprise a choice of Christmas pies, we adjourned back to the wave of shyness comes over me. But Uncle George saves living room, where we played with our new toys! the day by making one of his jokes to lighten the mood. Now, looking back, I understand all the adult details My gift is a handmade doll named Little Lulu that Aunt behind Christmas, and I know who actually buys and Rosy made especially for me. She looks exactly like the wraps those presents. But I look back with fondness on cartoon of Little Lulu from the Sunday paper. I can’t my childhood self and I can still experience the magic of understand how Aunt Rosy created an exact replica of Christmas.

Lifestyles After 50 • December 2023 • 4

funfest C

E S T PE T T U s

NC says Merry Christmas from Zephyrhills Lifestyles After 50 • December 2023 • 5

Movie Preview: “Candy Cane Lane” BY RANDAL C. HILL

Brian Grazer, one of the producers of the forthcoming “Candy Cane Lane,” can hardly contain his enthusiasm when he gushes, “I can’t wait for the world to see Candy Cane Lane! I’ve wanted to make a Christmas movie my whole life, but I wanted to do something fresh and surprising. Eddie Murphy in this hilarious cast really brings the funny.”

In addition to featuring Murphy in his latest star turn, the cast also includes Tracee Ellis Ross (Diana Ross’s daughter) as Eddie’s wife Carol, and Jillian Bell as Pepper. The screenplay was written by Kelly Younger (“Frozen II,” the Muppets movies), an English professor who moonlights in the world of celluloid magic and was inspired by his childhood experiences in El Segundo, a working-class beach suburb near the Los Angeles airport.

“Candy Cane Lane” centers on Chris (Eddie Murphy) as a man on a mission to win his neighborhood’s annual Christmas home-decoration contest. After he makes a deal with a rascally elf named Pepper to improve his chances of winning, Pepper casts a spell that brings the 12 days of Christmas to life but, in the process, wreaks havoc on the town. Chris, Carol and their three children race against the clock to break Pepper’s spell, battle devious characters, try to contain mayhem and salvage Christmas for everyone.

According to Younger, for three weeks each December, Acacia Street, a cul-de-sac of 26 traditional tract houses, magically morphs into Candy Cane Lane when residents there put out lights and decorations for strolling spectators to enjoy. The holiday fun-fest will be released on December 1 and available on Prime Video in more than 240 countries and territories around the globe.

U C

T S PE T E T

Oscar About Town from Zephyrhills Lifestyles After 50 • December 2023 • 6

A GAYLORD HOTELS ORIGINAL EXPERIENCE

gaylord ICE! is a dazzling, immersive, story-driven holiday showplace complete with larger-than-life ice sculptures, thrilling frozen slides, and awe-inspiring tunnels. Come experience the splendor of the holiday season at Gaylord Palms. Tickets and packages are on sale now. Book a room night or package and receive exclusive benefits for overnight guests. NOV. 17 - JAN. 3 ChristmasAtGaylordPalms.com © 2023 Peanuts Worldwide LLC

Lifestyles After 50 • December 2023 • 7

8 Florida Christmas Traditions You Won’t Find Anywhere Else Adapted from an article on SouthernLiving.com The Christmas season in Florida isn’t a traditional winter wonderland. Floridians gather ‘round the palm tree in shorts, drink ice-cold eggnog while opening presents, and toast candy cane martinis poolside before setting up a picnic on the beach. White sand beaches take the place of snowy landscapes. We gathered up our favorite ways Sunshine State natives celebrate the winter season in “Florida fashion.” Decorations with Beachy Style This Southern-most point appreciates a fresh pine-scented house just as much as anyone, but the decorations might feature turquoise and sand color scheme with starfish and seashells. Christmas Dinners with Citrus Some Floridians might ditch the Christmas roast in favor of a full-on seafood feast. Others opt to add citrus—it’s in season in December—to holiday menu staples (like roasting a turkey with orange and lemon). Publix Key Lime Pie is a strong contender for the dessert menu. Taking to the Water in Boat Parades With more than 8,000 miles of shoreline, there are more boat parades than any other. From small-town events to big city extravaganzas, there’s always a floating light show nearby. For particularly scenic parades, check out one of the many Florida Keys lighted boat parades. The 12 Days of Christmas (Florida Style) Head to The Gasparilla Inn & Club in Boca Grande to celebrate the 12 Days of Christmas. Festivities include decorating gingerbread houses, holiday movies on the lawn, roasted

Lifestyles After 50 • December 2023 • 8

chestnuts, eggnog, and the annual tree lighting. Underwater Spectacles (With Mermaids) Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is home to one of Florida’s weirdest wonders: real-life mermaids. Come the holidays, in addition to the show’s regular roster of mermaids, visitors might catch a swimming Santa or his elves, too. Traveling Back in Time for A Festive Night or Two In Tampa, there’s the Victorian Christmas Stroll at the Henry B. Plant Museum, which brings visitors to the museum for a festive winter exhibit that brings to life an authentic Victorian-style Christmas celebration, complete with carolers, spiced cider, and trimmed trees. White Sand Wonderland Situated on Little Sarasota Bay in Osprey, Florida, visitors can find a merry and bright Florida Christmas celebration that dazzles. The Holly Days and Mangrove Lights celebration at Historic Spanish Point takes place on the 30-acre gem, decked in lights illuminating the pathways, holly plantings, and mangroves. The area includes some of the most extensive gardens on the Gulf Coast and has a beautiful chapel, historic homes, and holiday cheer around every corner. Making Snow (And Fun) At Snow Fest in Naples, over a thousand ice blocks are put through a chipper to create tons of powdery snow. It’s the perfect spot for throwing snowballs, making snow angels, and even tobogganing. After playing in the snow, make your way to the sands to warm up on a patch of classic white Florida sands. collector,” says Glancy. “I love seeing students’ eyes light up and I feed off the energy of their increased passion for wine.”

“Only So Much Time” BY: RANDAL C. HILL When Ingrid Croce sat her husband Jim down at the kitchen table on their Pennsylvania farm one night, she told him they were finally about to become parents. Jim was so overcome with emotion that he composed “Time in a Bottle” that very night: If I could save time in a bottle // The first thing that I’d like to do Is to save every day till eternity passes away // Just to spend them with you Of course, life doesn’t work that way, and we are granted only a finite number of days together: But there never seems to be enough time // To do the things you want to do once you find them Their blessed event was a boy. The happy couple named him Adrian. “Time in a Bottle” ended up on Croce’s first successful album, “You Don’t Mess Around with Jim.” The title track on ABC Records had been a rollicking Top Ten novelty single, but “Time in a Bottle” ended up

being buried on the LP’s second side. Fast-forward a couple of years, and Jim Croce had become a recording superstar. Sadly, in September 1973, he and his backup band were touring in the South when their small chartered plane struck a tree on takeoff and everyone on board perished. Adrian Croce had turned two years old just eight days earlier. Coincidentally, one week before the crash, ABC-TV had aired a nowforgotten Movie of the Week, “She Lives!” starring Desi Arnaz, Jr., which told the story of a young woman stricken with cancer. The film’s producers had included “Time in a Bottle” on the movie’s soundtrack. The following day, radio stations were bombarded with callers asking to hear the poignant tune again. ABC Records issued Croce’s creation, which raced to the peak of the Billboard singles chart and quickly became Jim’s signature song.

Noodle Kugel Recipe by Jenn Segal, OnceUponAChef.com Noodle kugel is a traditional Jewish holiday dish of egg noodles baked in a sweet or savory custard.

Ingredients for the streusel topping: • 1 cup packed dark brown sugar • 1-¼ cups sifted all-purpose flour • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon salt • 1 stick unsalted butter, cold, cut into ½-inch chunks

Ingredients for the kugel: • 12 oz. bag wide egg noodles • 4 large eggs • 8 oz. sour cream • 8 oz. cream cheese, softened • 2 cups half & half Method: 1. Combine the brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt in a medium bowl. Rub in the butter with your fingertips until the mixture has a clumpy, crumbly texture.

• ½ cup granulated sugar • 1 teaspoon salt • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Refrigerate until ready to use. 2. Preheat the oven to 325°F and set an oven rack in the middle position. Butter a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.

3. Bring a large pot of unsalted water to a boil. Cook the noodles for 6 to 8 minutes or until tender. Drain well. 4. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs. Add the sour cream and cream cheese and whisk to combine. Add the half & half, sugar, salt, vanilla, and cinnamon, and whisk until completely smooth. 5. Spread the cooked noodles

evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the custard mixture over top. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the top, making sure to cover all the noodles. Bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes more, or until the streusel topping is crisp. 6. Cool for about 20 minutes, then cut into squares and serve.

Lifestyles After 50 • December 2023 • 9

THE HEALTHY GEEZER Is an Enlarged Prostate a Sign of Cancer?

DELIVERED

Q. I know I have an enlarged prostate. Is this a sign of cancer?

to your mailbox every month.

Most men with enlarged prostates don’t develop prostate cancer, but there’s a lot more to this question. The prostate is a walnut-size organ that surrounds the tube (urethra) that carries urine from the bladder. The urethra also transmits semen, which is a combination of sperm plus a fluid the prostate adds. =Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is the term used to describe an enlarged prostate, which is common in men 50 and older. An enlarged prostate may squeeze the urethra, making it hard to urinate. It may cause dribbling after you urinate or a frequent urge to urinate, especially at night. Some men with prostate cancer also have BPH, but that doesn’t mean that the two conditions are always linked. However, because the early symptoms are the same for both conditions, you should see a doctor if you have these symptoms. The following are other symptoms of prostate problems: blood in urine or semen, burning urination, difficulty getting an erection, painful ejaculation, frequent pain or stiffness in lower back, hips or upper thighs. Treatment choices for BPH include: • Observation. If your symptoms don’t bother you a lot, your doctor may suggest that you delay treatment and come in for regular checkups. • Alpha-blockers. These are medicines that can relax muscles near the prostate and ease symptoms. • Finasteride (Proscar) acts on the male hormone (testosterone) to shrink the prostate. • Surgery. An operation can relieve symptoms, but it can cause complications. Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer among American men. Treatment for prostate cancer works best when the disease is

Lifestyles After 50 • December 2023 • 10

found early.

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LAKE EDITION ~ NOVEMBER 2023 Florida’s Most ~ Read 50+2021 Publication Since 1989 LAKE EDITION JULY

In a physical exam, the doctor feels the prostate through the rectal wall. Hard or lumpy areas may mean that cancer is present. Your doctor also may suggest a blood test to check your prostate specific antigen (PSA) level. PSA levels may be high in men who have an enlarged prostate gland or prostate cancer. PSA tests are used for early cancer diagnosis. But PSA test results alone do not always tell whether or not cancer is present. When doctors suspect cancer, they also may perform a biopsy. Doctors can take out a small piece of the prostate and look at it under a microscope. There are many options for treating prostate cancer: • Observation. If the cancer is growing slowly, you may decide to wait and watch. • Hormone therapy. This stops cancer cells from growing. • Surgery. There are several surgical options. These include radical prostatectomy or removal of the entire prostate, cryosurgery that kills the cancer by freezing it, radiation therapy to shrink tumors, and implant radiation that places radioactive seeds into the prostate. Surgery can lead to impotence and incontinence. Improvements in surgery now make it possible for some men to keep their sexual function. All Rights Reserved © 2023 by Fred Cicetti Send your general health questions to Healthy Geezer with Lifestyles After 50 in the subject line to fred@healthygeezer.com

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ƌƟĐůĞƐ ŝŶ ĞĂĐŚ ŝƐƐƵĞ͗ disease—learn how to prevent and recognize breastDay cancer. you can enroll this season. Parents’ Dog Days of Summer Let Your Light Try an e-Wine Healthy Geezer, • Humor Articles in each issue: • Pop Culture History Celebrate the Volunteer on 8-9 Shine, p. with 4 Neighborly/Meals Class, p. p.parents 20 in your life • Health • Local news • Music • Health Flashback ǁŝƚŚ ŐƌĞĂƚ ŐŝŌƐ Žƌ Ă ĐŽŽů ĚĞƐƐĞƌƚ Wheels this season to brighten up Snowbird • Local news & events s’ Guide to Fun & events • Recipe your summer Not sure how to spend Veterans’ Day Travel this winter? Learn about what you • Humor • Book Review can do for fun this season.

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Tickets On Sale Dec. 7th at 8 am • FLstrawberryfestival.com

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Christmas Vegetable Appetizers These yummy appetizers feature easy-to-find ingredients and with their red and green colors, create a beautiful holiday look to your next party.

Ingredients: • 1 brick cream cheese (can be light), softened • ¼ cup mayonnaise • Salt and pepper • 1 Tablespoon dried dill • 1 teaspoon onion powder Method:

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder • 2-3 large cucumbers • 10-15 cherry tomatoes • Red, yellow, and orange peppers • 1 bunch celery • 4-6 large carrots

1. Combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and spices. Mix well until you have a smooth paste.

to make stripes. Cut the cucumbers into ¾” rounds.

2. Wash all the vegetables and pat dry. Using a paring knife or vegetable peeler, cut strips lengthwise from each cucumber

Lifestyles After 50 • December 2023 • 12

the wide sticks in half lengthwise.

3. Remove the core, then slice the peppers into long pieces about ½” wide.

5. Peel the carrots and cut into sticks about 4” long (approximately as long as the pepper pieces).

4. Cut the celery into sticks about 4” long (approximately as long as the pepper pieces). If desired, cut

6. Place a teaspoon of cream cheese mixture on top of each cucumber circle. Top with a cherry tomato

and sprinkle with more dill. 7. Add a little milk to the remaining cream cheese mixture and mix well until it becomes dipping sauce consistency. Divide into juice or shot glasses. Place carrot sticks, celery, and pepper strips into each glass. Serve cold.

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A&B Insurance and Financial is an authorized, independent agent for Florida Blue and Florida Blue Medicare. *All benefits are not available on all plans. SilverSneakers is a registered trademark of Tivity Heal th, Inc. © 2023 Tivity Heal th, Inc. All rights reserved. The OTC allowance is a quar terly or monthly benefit and any unused amounts do not roll over to the next quar ter or month. Heal thyBlue Rewards Program (Heal thyBlue) restrictions and limitations may apply. Par ticipation in Heal thyBlue is voluntary and offered at no cost to you. Out-ofnetwork/non-contracted providers are under no obligation to treat Florida Blue Medicare members, except in emergency situations. Please call member services at 1-800-926-6565, TTY 1-800-955-8770, hours: October 1–March 31, we are open every day 8 a.m.–8 p.m. ET (except for Thanksgiving and Christmas), April 1–September 30, we are open Monday–Friday 8 a.m.–8 p.m. ET.;or see the plan Evidence of Coverage for more information, including the cost-sharing that applies to out-of-network services. Florida Blue is a PPO plan with a Medicare contract. Florida Blue Medicare is an HMO plan with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in Florida Blue or Florida Blue Medicare depends on contract renewal. Heal th coverage is offered by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida, Inc., DBA Florida Blue. HMO coverage is offered by Florida Blue Medicare, Inc., DBA Florida Blue Medicare. These companies are affiliates of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida, Inc., and Independent Licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. We comply with applicable Federal civil rights laws and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. Visit floridablue.com/ndnotice for information on our free language assistance services. © 2023 Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida, Inc., DBA Florida Blue. All rights reserved. Y0011_FBM1957 2023_M

Lifestyles After 50 • December 2023 • 14

Armchair Adventure: Silent Night and a Tale of Two Chapels By Evelyn Kelly, PhD 1818: It was the best of times; it was the worst of times. For Father Josef Mohr in the village of Oberndorf, Austria, it was wonderful because Christmas was coming and war with Napoleon was over. It was the worst of times because a mouse had chewed the organ entrails, and there could be no church music. The war had ravaged the village leaving turmoil, suffering and hunger. Needed was the spirit of Christmas and joyful music to provide hope. Sitting on a small hill in the peaceful Alps, he pondered his situation with no music. Inspired, he took out a pen and wrote a poem he titled Stille Nacht, Heilige Nacht. Why not set the poem to music? He contacted his organist Franz Gruber who composed a melody using his guitar. The church had Christmas music, and we have the best known all Christmas hymns: “Silent Night.” The first chapel: During our excursion from nearby Salzburg, we are deposited in the village of Oberndorf. The whole being of this city is saturated with memorabilia and souvenirs of Silent Night. We make our way through the hoopla and climb the steps to a small white octagonal building with a tiled roof, a cupola bell helmet and lantern. The setting is framed by two large evergreens. River flooding destroyed the first little chapel, but in 1936, a new chapel on a higher site was built. In fact, the whole town of Oberndorf moved about half a mile upstream. It was a joy to experience the site commemorating where the great Christmas carol was written and performed.

chapel is nestled on the southern tip of Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland. Billboards on the Interstate advertised this wonderland, but seeing the little Silent Night chapel is a wonder in itself. In 1976, Wally Bronner was on a European trip buying ornaments and memorabilia for his Christmas store. The family had started the Christmas store in 1945, the same year that war had ended. When visiting Oberndorf, he had a marvelous idea: to build a replica of this chapel at Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland. He got permission from the Oberndorf city officials and set out to recreate the chapel in Frankenmuth at the south end of town. Care was taken to make it as authentic as possible. Inside, guests may hear in 30 different languages the message of Christ’s birth as told in Luke 2:1-19. Outside, lamp posts line the walkway with Silent Night displayed in 300 languages. “Silent Night” may be heard inside and outside the chapel grounds. Bronner’s display also includes a life-size nativity. The inspirational landmark is fully illuminated at night, and open daily for visitation and meditation at no charge. From Austria to Michigan, the story of Silent Night has an important message for our world today. The small chapel is a tangible reminder of the spirit of peace in the world. I loved the story and the chapel so much that I ordered a small chapel replica from Bronner’s. I display the little chapel with my Christmas decor, and I tell this story of Silent Night to guests and to everyone who will listen.

The second chapel: In Frankenmuth, Michigan a 56-foot-tall

Lifestyles After 50 • December 2023 • 15

Solo Travel: Just Do It By Patricia Horwell 1818: It was the best of times; it was the worst of times. When you’ve got the itch to get out there and go, you just have to scratch it. Sure, it’s fun to travel with a buddy, but that is not always possible. Life is too short for “coulda, woulda, shoulda.” It’s time to plan your adventure. Whether you are longing for a simple road trip, a cruise or a vacation in a foreign or exotic location, you can do it. There’s no compromise with solo travel. You can do what you want, when you want. Plan it. Although you are the master of your trip, remember to be flexible. Sometimes the unexpected can make for the best memories. Choose destinations with good healthcare and consider buying travel insurance. Pack light. You don’t need as much as you think! (Dragging heavy luggage can be exhausting.) Remember to pack any medications you’ll need. Always trust your instincts. You have been around the block a few times and know when a situation isn’t quite right. Choose accommodations where you can socialize. Bed and breakfast inns are great places to meet other nomads. Some tour operators run group trips for solo travelers and many cruise lines now offer single cabins. There are also dining rooms and meeting spaces where you can meet other single cruisers.

Lifestyles After 50 • December 2023 • 16

Learn a few phrases. Knowing a bit of the language, even if you’re not fluent, can help if you need directions, medical care or even if making purchases. The locals appreciate your attempt, even if you slaughter their language. It shows respect for the culture. Remember to say “hello” before you ask for help. Be fearless. Try hiking, skiing, visiting museums, or something you’ve always wanted to try. Stay Connected. Be sure to let family or close friends know your itinerary in case of an emergency. Send daily texts. They’ll love following your adventure. Pay attention. Always know where your belongings are. Make copies of your ID or passport and keep them separate from the originals. You can also take photos of them and keep them on your mobile phone. It is helpful to know the location of your embassy or consulate. Hit the road. A solo road trip can be a soul-satisfying experience as you travel at your own pace. Just be sure to give your car a good check before you go. Take your favorite snacks to munch on. You’ll have space to bring home some of those souvenirs you just had to have. It’s also wise to carry some paper maps. Take photos. Finally, bring a camera or use your mobile phone to take photos. You might want to make up a book or hang a few prints at home to remember your trip. Stay hydrated and have fun!

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38 37

1. Poet Make40__; 40 clench 39ACROSS 1.

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Lifestyles After 50 • December 2023 • 17

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Morning Matinees Presented by The Helen Torres Foundation

KLINE TOURS DAYTONA 500 Exclusive ticket and motorcoach transportation offer to the Daytona 500 Sunday February 18. 3:00 p.m. with departures from the Sarasota-Bradenton Clearwater-Dunedin, Largo, Seminole and St. Petersburg areas. Just $179 per person includes a race ticket with the ticket value alone of $220. Our package includes your ticket and bus transportation for just $179. A portion of ticket proceeds is being donated to the American Legion to benefit Veterans programs. Option to add UNOH Fanzone/Pre-Race Access for just $86 (a $110 Value) BILOXI, MISSISSIPPI 4 days/3 nights March 25-28 $469 per person (double occupancy) includes 3 nights at IP Resort Casino and Spa in Boloxi, roundtrip motorcoach from Sarasota and St. Petersburg. $50 Slot Play, ($25 from IP Casino, $25 from Hard Rock Casino) $80 in food vouchers.

Anna Kate Mackle harp

FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL PLANT CITY, FL Thursday March 7 $59 per person (includes admission) NEW ORLEANS PRE MARDI GRAS 2024 Monday February 5- Friday February 9, 2024 $1999 per person (double occupancy) Roundtrip airfare from Tampa to New Orleans, 5 days , 4 nights accommodations in French Quarter 7 Meals New Orleans School of Cooking, comprehensive city tour of New Orleans, Mardi Gras World Museum, National World War II Museum (including 4D film), Steamboat Natchez Harbor Cruise, Louisiana Swamp Boat tour, and reserved parade bleacher seating for four parades in New Orleans MEMPHIS ADVENTURE

From the Beginning

Monday-Thursday April 15-18 $2199 per person (double occupancy) three nights lodging at Guest House at Graceland, Elvis Experience Tour to include Graceland, Sun Studio, Rock n Soul Museum, Duck March at the Peabody Hotel, Beale Street, National Civil Rights Museum, Stax Museum of American Soul Music, Sightseeing cruise with Memphis Riverboats tour of Memphis, six meals, round trip air from Tampa to Memphis, round trip airport transportation from St. Petersburg-Clearwater area.

The origin story of the symphony. Featuring Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven, Mahler and more. Lawrence Loh conducts

Wed, Jan 10, 11 am, Ruth Eckerd Hall Thur, Jan 11, 11 am, Mahaffey Theater

Center Stage

CAPE COD 2024

Music for the theater. Featuring Beethoven, Grieg, Wagner and more. Lucas Richman conducts.

Sunday-Thursday June 9-13, 2024 -$1569 per person (double occupancy) includes roundtrip air. Airport transportation, 4 nights lodging , 4 Breakfasts, 4 Dinners including a Lobsterbake Guided tour of the Cape to Provincetown with afternoon Whale Watch Cruise. Cape Cod Canal Cruise, Guided tour of Hyannis, Kennedy Museum, Tour of Sandwich and, round trip ferry to Martha’s Vineyard with tour.

Wed, Feb 7, 11 am, Ruth Eckerd Hall Thur, Feb 8, 11 am, Mahaffey Theater

Waltz into Spring Featuring Strauss’ Blue Danube, Tchaikovsky’s Sleeping Beauty and more. Chelsea Gallo conducts

Wed, May 1, 11 am, Ruth Eckerd Hall Thur, May 2, 11 am, Mahaffey Theater

Chelsea Gallo conductor

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Lifestyles After 50 • December 2023 • 18

KLINE TOURS

The Super Adult Identity By Julie Dee Suman, PhD

May I have the super adult discount? I’m 51 years old, and in AARP terms, I’m considered a senior citizen, but I certainly don’t feel like senior discounts apply to me. Society would argue that I’m not “old” until Medicare eligibility at 65. Others may claim that senior citizen status starts when you draw Social Security. (Do those definitions change if I retire early?)

They have a position in a culture that garners respect. But in the Western world, the words “old-timer,” “geriatric,” and even “Boomer” imply that you’re somehow incapable or behind the times. So, what moniker describes this diverse group? A survey conducted by Ina Jaffe from NPR to identify new terms for aging indicated that “older adults” received the most votes. “Older adults” is considered polite and is vastly more preferred than “senior citizens.” “Senior” and “elder” also made the acceptable list.

The Social Security Act of 1935 determined that 65 equated with senior status. At that time, doctors and scientists countered that old age should relate to other factors like chronic health conditions, economic Jaffe further went on to status, and family identify a possible new term that she heard on Twitter. history – that society should consider aspects of modern The person she followed tweeted that she was buying life when defining a “senior citizen.” I could get behind tickets to a show in London, and instead of a “senior “You’re as young as you feel.” discount,” they used the term “super adult.” Jaffe felt The National Council on Aging (NCOA) states there will the term acknowledges that you’ve reached an age be 40 million older adults by 2030 (note that “older” where you have done something great. (It also calls up is not defined). However, many of this cohort still hold vague notions of superheroes in capes and masks.) jobs. Some will be taking expeditions around the world. It’s no secret that I’m a fan of the term “super adult.” It Others may be helping raise young grandchildren. Some reflects a vibrant group with much to give to society and may have delayed having children until later in life and living on their terms. However, please note this warning: are years away from grandkids. You see older adults I googled “super adult” and found myself looking at ads embracing technology, social media, workouts, and for adult diapers. Not exactly empowering, but let’s take actively participating in society. “Feeble” is not how I that as a challenge to show that older Americans are would describe seniors, and nor should you. indeed “super.” In Eastern societies, elders are revered for their wisdom.

Lifestyles After 50 • December 2023 • 19

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APRIL September 1 8 1 69 7 3 DECEMBER Sudoku 64 13 84 5 2 Sudoku requires no arithmetic skills. The object of the game is to 1 5 5 fill all the blank squares with the correct numbers. Each row and each 6 4 1 8 5 column of 9 numbers must include all digits 1 through 9 in any order. 46 3 Each 7 9 57 3 by 3 subsection of the 9 by 9 square must include all digits 1 through 9 as well. Good luck! The 3 2 6 1 9 first correct answers selected from the drawing on the 20th will win. 3 4 7 Send your answers along with your name, address, 9 6 41 7 12 telephone number & email to: After 50 86 5 P.O. BOXLifestyles 2 2 19 638, SEFFNER, FL 33583 WIN GREAT PRIZES! Sudoku muST bE REcEIvEd by ThE 20Th of ThE moNTh.

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Lifestyles After 50 • December 2023 • 20

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Play &asWIN! Christm Trivia

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Mary Tursellino, Port Charlotte was last months Cheryl Kapa, Ft Myers, was our November winner!winner! Last month’s answer: NORAD, Col. Harry Shoup.

Last month's answers: Walt Disney, Astrophysicist, I should have made you leave your key.

Please enjoy The playing Crossword, Sudoku and Word Search Puzzles BECAUSE moreour you play the better chance you have to win! The more puzzles you play & submit, the better chance you have to win! Go to LifestylesAfter50.com and click on the Trivia Palooza icon to play each week.

BOOK REVIEW

Dolly Parton’s Life in Rhinestones - by Kathy A. Megyeri

“I just wanted to be different. I wanted to be seen. I wanted to wow the audience. I wanted to really dazzle them.” (Dolly Parton) One of the happiest trips I ever took was to Dollywood, Dolly Parton’s theme park in the Smokey Mountains. While the others ate at the many restaurants, bought souvenirs, attended musicals in the theaters and enjoyed the rides, I remained in her museum filled with costumes, tried on some of her wigs, and appreciated Dolly’s sense of style and fashion. You can find all this and more in her dazzling new coffee table book “Behind the Seams; My Life in Rhinestones.” The book’s gorgeous photographs include close-ups of some of the intricate costume beadwork and take the reader on a journey through her private costume archive. It tells the story in her own words of her lifelong love of fashion, including how she developed her distinct style that has endeared her to fans all over the world. The book tells the story of these outfits – from the little bolero vest she wore performing as a child to her simple wedding dress to the red dress that turned her into Miss Mona in the “Best Little Whorehouse in Texas.” Growing up in the hollows of East Tennessee, she loved make-up and wanted to be pretty, so she started wearing the tight, low-cut, sexy outfits her mother made for her and even suffered a whipping or two from her dad and grandfather to keep that look.

When she went to Nashville in 1964 to become a country star, others told her to “tone it down,” but she loved the big hair and make-up, the long nails, the high heels, the flashy clothes and above all, the rhinestones that became her Dolly style. She is proud of her motto “To thine own self be true.” She writes, “My clothes and make-up reveal the real me and even though they’re ‘made up,’ they reflect my innermost self, my own personal truth.” The book pays homage to her designer, tailors, hairdressers, make-up artists, photographers, her long-time creative director Steve Summers, and her personal assistant and best friend Judy Ogle, who’s assembled her clothing archive and is preserving it. Dolly’s niece Rebecca Seaver selected the pieces featured in the book from among the thousands Dolly owns. Dolly says, “Rebecca knows every dress I ever wore, how it looked, how it felt, and how it smelled so she’s selected items spanning six decades from complete outfits, accessories, shoes and wigs, all with the purpose of encouraging readers to develop their own sense of style.” She finishes: “I value my freedom to look like and be my own true self more than anything else, and I hope this book will give you the confidence to look like and be the person you want to be and are and enjoy your own journey behind the seams.”

Lifestyles After 50 • December 2023 • 21

Seniors getting Together WOMENSEEKING SEEKING MEN WOMEN MEN

communicator. FF

5595 – I AM YOUNG 4907 - SWF. 59 yo, 5’9”, 160SPIRITED. lbs, smoker, 74, ND, NS, NDrgs. Christian blonde hair, blue eyes. I like fishing, lady movies, dancing, good food. Seeks in traveling, search of life partner. Friends SWM who likes the same.

5610- HAVE – RETIRED ASIAN LOOKING 5419 A NICE DAY. SWF, 75 yo, 5’5”, slender, brunette, green eyes, adventurous, COMPANION ISO life partner love walks, parks, outdoors, food. Am between 70-85 yrs old.healthy NS, ND, happy, loving, kind. LTR, intimacy? Have photo. honest, kind gentleman. I am 5 foot Tampa.

first. Am very active, love dancing, laughter and working 5409 - WRETCHED old haggout. seeking miserable If U respond U obviLooking old fortroll. the same. Please send ously have aphoto. sense of humor & R adventura recent ous. I’m 76, blonde, petite, earthy, easy to B with. singing, dancing, 5599 – Love SEARCHING FOR biking, cooking, vintage cars & vintage Must SOMEONE. I am SWF, 80men. yy, NS, have a little class & a lot of character.

ND, Blond/Gray hair, 5’2”. ISO SWM- VERY for eating listening to 5422 PRETTYout, WWF ISO FF. Long blonde hair,western, youthful 60’s, 5’4”, slim, ND, country, gospel music, NS. Fine dining, dancing, theatre, travel. travel, sports. THIS COULD BE YOU! Looking for retired W gentleman, 5’9”, 6575, HWP,–SOH. Will speakACTIVE, soon. Send photo 5600 HEALTHY, & phone.

RETIRED, WDHF, 5’5”, 130 lbs, physically secure,NEEDS goodCOMSOH, 5436 - TAMPAfit, VETERAN PANION QUICKLY. SW, 60, looking 70’s. Enjoys travel, beaches, for healthy, W, 45-65 for LTR. Need compuer dance. NS, ND. ISO, WSM, 70’s who operations, applications expert and handy likes the same. homemaker. Quiet Let’s music,have parks,fun. swimming, local touring. Veteran literary a plus. Clearwater/Dunedin area. Tampa.

5601 – R U THE 1? Want 5427 - SEEKING SINCERE, HONEST gentleman who touches the GENTLEMAN. I’m 70s, HWP, NS, ND,79, like heart & tickles the soul! I’m to meet SWM with same interest for LTR. W, J,back, WW, 5’, 135 platinum Laid noNS, drama. Likelbs, animals. Hillshair, pleasant borough & Pasco. personality & looks. Love music, theatre, restaurants, 5425 - SINCERE CHRISTIAN WOMAN fishing, pets & board games. Sun desires C-man who really loves God and is City. lives a healthy life, helps his neighactive,

bor, enjoys nature (including picnics), ca5602 – SWF, 5’4”,120 lbs, auburn noeing and a friend to all animals. I’m all blue eyes, retired paralegal. ofhair, the above. I’m a W ,etite lady with long hair and chearful. Age 60’s,dancing, Age preferred: I enjoy the outdoors, Mid 50’s and up. I live in Hillsborough movies, and dinner out. I enjoy County. Please write me, tell me about attending church and cooking. I yourself.

am from a large family.

5431 – LONELY WWF, looking for love & 5604 – LOOKING companion. Man shouldFOR be 70 to 80 yrs old. I am fi nancially have a car5’5”, & SOULMATE. I’msecure, 80 y young, condo. I live in N. St. Pete. 120#, blonde. Like dancing, Elks,

beach, state parks,COVID-19 reading,INshort 5429 - HERE, DURING S. trips, museums, picniks inwith theW, FT. MYERS. ISO friendship only widower in early 80’s. SOH, honest, NS. I park, movies. SWCF. Write OK. am W, WW, HWP, attractive & intellgent. Largo & Seminole Please respond with phone/email. Be safe &5611 well. – SUPER SENIOR, active, C, W, WW, HWP, NS, SD, NDrg,

5413 - WW ISO BUDDY, FRIEND to pal HWP, well-adjusted, energetic, around with who’s about my age, 80’s, gal or guy with SOH. Good health,music, finanuncomplicated. Enjoys cially secure to have fun & enjoy life. No nature, short trips, animals, Trumpers or religious zealots please. Let dancing, camping, fishing. the good times roll.

ISO straight-forward, honest

tall, avg build. Loves to travel & am

4119 - Seeking gentleman. Forphysically fit.Honest Send photo & phone mer airline stewardess and model, 5’4”, 104 please. lbs., slender, white with Ph.D. in healthcare. Fulbright eatsTHE healthy and exercises. 5613 – scholar, NEW TO AREA. Fun Likes sports and animals. WW. Loves the Lord. female, petite, S, C, 70’s, NS, FF, enjoy Florida.

Happy Hours, short trips, dancing,

MEN SEEKING WOMEN theatre. Looking for companion, Send

letter with phone # and photo.

5411 - BM seeks LTR with 50-65 yr old woman of character. I am 6’0”, 180 lbs, 60 MEN SEEKING WOMEN year old. NS. Children are adults. Free to travel. – NEW TO ME. Secure SWM, I5591 am a one woman man. Race is not an issue character is! 5’7”, 150#, NS, ND, seeks romantic,

relocatable female for life partner,

5407 - ISO BF, 50+, slender build who likes to bestgo friend, lover. Share home. read, out to eat, movies, laidmy back, enjoys laughter & is rent dramafor free. Lookthings. forward to hearSave that good Please ing from you. I am a WM, 5’11”, 155 lbs, NS send description, photo, phone. and drama free.

5593 – HI LADIES! I’m 61, 160 lbs, 5’7”

5415 M, WW, NS, SD, HWP, P,swimming FF, likes cards, hgt.,- physically fit, enjoy walks, cooking, travel, fun.

This is my first experience with this. seeking fit, attractive, female. Very handsome, very fit senior. 175, blue eyes, Homeowner with5’11”, pool, semi-retired, silver hair. Let’s enjoy life’s pleasures. own truck dealership. Send your Dunedin. number. Let’s talk. Marvin 5417 - PINELLAS PARK, FUN LOVING

5608 – TENNESSEE SOUTHERN SWM, seeking SWW to enjoy sports activiGENTLEMAN. Venice. ties, bridge, dominoes, pinochle and swimming at Mainlands. I’m W, 88 and active. Accomplished, 73, D, R,very P, NS, Looking for SWW over 70. I’m 6’3”, 235 lbs NDrg, SD, HWP, well dressed, spoken, and a dancer. Pinellas Park. C, gospel, 70’s, music dancer. ISO active lifestyle, mature passionate F, desiring princess treatment. Send a letter and photo. Guaranteed return response. No disappointments. 5612 – YOU + ME = TOGETHER. SWM, SD, NS, SOH, ND, 5’6”, 180 lbs. CONDO – New carpeting + king bedroom. Likes happy hour, restaurants, the Elks, TV, movies, shopping, kissing, holding hands. ISO SWF or Asian. Fun. SOH, easy going, smiles, enjoys life. Pinellas Park. Please be local.

pool & beach, art fest’s, going out 5424 - HI,fun, Lonely guy,of WM, 5’8”, 160 lbs, a having sense humor, doing young mid-seventies, NS, NS, t, activeages and new things. Looking forfisame adventuresome. Seeks lady, mid-sixties to early 57-65. Venice. seventies, HWP, exercises, possible romance, LTR. Let’s–be happy and celebrate life. LESS. 5603 NEVER SETTLED FOR

That- was mistake. Nobody’s perfect. 5393 SWM,a69, 5’11”, AVG. Hair black, thinNeither yousincere, OR ME. Searching ning, DAV, are honest, relocated Hudson. Retired Leo. ISO WHF,woman, widow preferred, for white caring under atfive tractive, sm. butt, NS, ND, handy homemaker, foot seven, any age. Risk takers only intimacy yes, no baggage, drama. please. Reachable from anywhere! 5428 - M, WW, NS, SD, HWP, R, TLC, 70’s. 5606 – TRIED THIS BEFORE. It Likes sharing many activities together, quiet workedbe great. 9 years but she passed evenings; adventurous.

To PLACe An AD: Send your ad, stating what edition(s) you would like it placed in, along with a $6 8 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

Personal Ad Placement only $68 per month! Deadline for ads is the 15th of the month prior to placement. MArk The ediTiOn(S) YOu WOuLd Like TO run YOur Ad in: ❍ Tampa Bay & Suncoast (Hillsborough/Pinellas/Pasco) ❍ Lake/Marion/Sumter ❍ Southwest & Sarasota (Lee, Charlotte/Manatee)

Ad Copy ••• PLeASe PrinT neATLY ••• 30 Word Limit TITLE:

(First 4 Words)

on. 78 yr old guy wants younger gal

5426 EASY GOING MAN. I’m 69, lbs, 5’7”, with- spunkiness left. NS, ND,140 loves all widower, lives alone. Seeking other gentlemen neighbors Adventurist. for friendship,even to get enemies. together and enjoy each other’s company. Will answer alll. 5607 – SEXY SIX FOOT TWO EYES

OF BLUE. 200For pound athletic 5369 – Looking Ms Right. Retiredboy New whoAttorney, looks aformer lot younger York New Yorkthan Police62 Officer, looking loving relationship with kind and wantsfor a fun, youthful companion to sincere, self-caring lady. 65 – 75. Widow preexplore the world with. Come with ferred. Clearwater area. me! PG, PC, NFM, NP.

5412 - LOOKING FOR ADVENTEROUS WOM5609 – LOOKING FOR Aenjoys FEMALE AN. SWM, NS, healthy, retired, country COMPANION in the Bay attracmusic, home cooking, day Tampa trips to scenic tions, rises, movies, in 5’9”, the area.sun I am 86sunsets, YY, WM, WW,walks C, NS, park. For more info, write me. Pinellas County.

165 lbs., SOH. Excellent health, very active. Southern gentleman. 5416 - LOOKING FORcountry COMPANION. SWM

Lifestyles After 50 • December 2023 • 22

CITY:

(No Charge)

If more room is needed, please use separate sheet. Mail this form along with $68 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.

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Email: Make checks payable to: Lifestyles After 50 Mail to: PO Box 638, Seffner, Fl 33583

Fraudsters Never Go on Vacation Information from Social Security Administration

Question: After a person dies, is the Social Security number used or reissued to someone else? (M. Ordones, Miramar)

AROUND TOWN DECEMBER 1 - 30: THE WONDERLAND OF LIGHTS

Answer: No. We do not reassign a Social Security number (SSN) after the number holder’s death. Even though we have issued over 453 million SSNs so far, and we assign about 5.5 million new numbers each year, the current numbering system will provide us with enough new numbers for several generations into the future with no changes in the numbering system.

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

Question: How long does it take, and what is the cost, to receive a Social Security Card? (R. Vargas, Hialeah)

DECEMBER 9: HARBOR CORVETTES – A HOLIDAY HAPPENING

Answer: Getting a social security card is free. We mail your Social Security card as soon as we have all the necessary information, usually within 7-10 business days from that time. Because we are experiencing slight delays in processing mail-in Social Security card applications, it may take us between 2-4 weeks to process a mail-in application and return the evidence. If you are applying for a new or replacement Social Security card using Form I-765 and/or Form I-485, we will issue your card within 7-10 business days after U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services approves your work authorization or Permanent Residence application. Question: What should I do if my name and Social Security number do not match Internal Revenue Service records? (E. McAllistor, Deerfield Beach) Answer: Contact us at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-3250778), Monday through Friday between 8:00 am and 7:00 pm and speak to a representative.

DECEMBER 5: ANNUAL HOLIDAY SOCIAL The Twisted Fork, 2208 El Jobean Rd., Port Charlotte DECEMBER 5: FOUNDERS CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION Hilton Naples, 5111 Tamiami Trail N., Naples DECEMBER 7: WHITE CHRISTMAS Fort Myers Theatre, 16120 San Carlos Blvd. #5a, Fort Myers DECEMBER 7, 8, 9, 10: A CHRISTMAS CAROL: A LIVE RADIO PLAY Center for Performing Arts, Moe Auditorium, 10150 Bonita Beach Rd., Bonita Springs Sting Rays Bar at Muscle Car City, 10175 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda DECEMBER 10: 6TH ANNUAL PARADISE CHRISTMAS FAIR Laishley Park, 100 Nesbit St., Punta Gorda DECEMBER 10: HOLIDAY CONCERT Caloosa Sound Amphitheater, 2101 Edwards Dr., Fort Myers DECEMBER 10: PICNIC IN THE PARK – HOLIDAY ADDITION Lakes Park, 7330 Gladiolus Dr., Fort Myers DECEMBER 12: CHRISTMAS LIGHTS, SUNSET KAYAK CRUISE AND PARADE Gilchrist Park Boat Ramp, 802 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda DECEMBER 14: WINTER FEST Fort Myers Brewing Company, 12811 Commerce Lakes Dr. #28, Fort Myers DECEMBER 15: CONTEMPORARY CHRISTMAS CONCERT North Naples Church, 6000 Goodlette-Frank Rd., Naples DECEMBER 16: CHRISTMAS GOLF CART PARADE FUNDRAISER 14859 Ingraham Blvd, Port Charlotte DECEMBER 17: TIBURON CHRISTMAS MARKET The Ritz-Carlton, 2600 Tiburon Dr., Naples DECEMBER 19: NOW AND THEN: A HOLIDAY SONG CELEBRATION BIG ARTS Sanibel, 900 Dunlop Rd., Sanibel DECEMBER 29: NUTCRACKER! Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FWS Pkwy., Fort Myers

Lifestyles After 50 • December 2023 • 23

Taking charge of your diabetes By Dr. Francisco Solis; Optum

ype 2 diabetes is a condition that affects many people, and knowing what it can do over time is very important for managing your health. If blood sugar is poorly managed, over time it can start to affect different parts of your body. Regular check-ups are key to effective diabetes management Your doctor can help you keep your blood sugar levels under control by monitoring your A1C levels, which are a measure of your average blood sugar over the past three months. It is also important to have regular tests for your cholesterol, blood pressure and kidney function. Lifestyle changes can help manage your blood sugar levels Adopting a healthy, low-sugar, low-carb diet is critical. Regular exercise complements dietary changes, as it aids in effectively utilizing glucose. It is important to remember that sugar is not naturally harmful; however, it becomes problematic when not properly metabolized.

This analogy is like maintaining a car — without using it and providing the right fuel, it will eventually break down. Misconceptions about diabetes Physicians often encounter common misconceptions about diabetes and its long-term effects. Common misconceptions include: • Lifestyle does not affect diabetes; it is all about family history. While family history can influence diabetes risk, lifestyle choices such as diet and exercise play a significant role in type 2 diabetes, regardless of family background. • Only being overweight leads to diabetes. Some believe that carrying extra weight is the sole cause of diabetes. However, this is an oversimplification. Some people carry extra weight without developing diabetes, indicating that weight is not the only contributing factor. • Eating any sugar causes diabetes. Although monitoring sugar intake is important, it is a misconception that consuming sugary foods directly causes diabetes. Genetics and overall dietary habits are key factors in diabetes development.

Because Your Health Matters

• Those with diabetes cannot have carbs or sweets at all. It is a common mistake to think people with diabetes must completely cut out carbohydrates and sugary foods. In reality, having them in controlled amounts within a balanced diet is key. • Delaying medication is safer. Some think it is better to put off starting medication as long as possible. However, this can actually make diabetes worse and harder to manage in the long term. With the right diet, exercise regimen and medication, the goal is not perpetual reliance on medication but rather the possibility of minimizing or even discontinuing it, especially for older adults. What you can do By visiting your doctor regularly and prioritizing your health, you can take charge of your diabetes. Early recognition and intervention can prevent complications and promote better overall health for individuals living with diabetes. Dr. Francisco Solis is a physician at Optum – Little Havana in Miami, FL.

Primary care for Medicare patients. It matters who takes care of you, regardless of your age. At WellMed and Optum, our doctors and care teams focus on prevention to help you live healthier because to us, your health matters.

Learn more now. Call 1-941-499-8419 today* or visit OurDocsCare.com Calling this number will direct you to a licensed insurance agent. The company does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability in health programs and activities. We provide free services to help you communicate with us such as letters in other languages or large print. Or, you can ask for an interpreter. To ask for help, please call 888-781-9355. ATENCIÓN: Si habla español (Spanish), hay servicios de asistencia de idiomas, sin cargo, a su disposición. Llame al 888-781-9355. 請注意：如果您說中文 (Chinese)，我們免費為您提供語言協助服務。請致電：888-781-WELL (9355)。 23-12131781_AD_GFL_WMOPT_SFL_LA50 Sarasota DEC_10.25x10.98_KH_080323

Lifestyles After 50 • December 2023 • 24