Lifestyles After 50 Southwest Edition, December 2022

Falling in Love with New Beginnings

My grandmother always said that with the change in seasons, it was time to shake things up, clean things out, and get ready to hunker down for winter snow (she lived near Chicago, where 20 below zero was a perfectly normal wintertime temperature). When I was a girl, we spent time cleaning out closets and washing all the blankets and other linens; sorting the jams, jellies, pickled beets, and other jars of canned goodness; and of course, stacking firewood. I miss my grandmother, but not the hipdeep snow that had to be shoveled before we could get to the car to head into town for groceries! (I’m grateful that snow shoveling was the duty of my brother and the other grandsons.)

Now that I am an adult and may choose where to be, I live in the Deep South, and “winter” is more a mindset than a temperature. December here brings with it 50-degree temperatures perfect for snuggly sweaters and crockpot soup. It’s nippy, but in a good way, and a crackling fire is purely for pleasure rather than for heating the house.

This season I am grateful to join the Lifestyles After 50 Team as editor. Thank you for allowing me to accompany you on this journey together. Although I was semi-retired, I’m still taking my grandmother’s advice and shaking things up, gratefully falling in love with this new beginning.

No matter how you celebrate the many December holidays: a walk on the beach, a visit to an art museum, travels to see loved ones near and far, or just hugging someone special, take to heart the wisdom of Maya Angelou: “This is a wonderful day. I’ve never seen this one before!”

Happy holidays,

P.S. Be on the lookout for a survey in the new year – we’ll be asking for your thoughts and comments on the direction of Lifestyles After 50. And some lucky respondents will

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

Lifestyles After 50 Volume 33, Issue 12

Published by Connected Community Media Group

Publisher@lifestylesafter50.com

Editor Michele Baker

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Attention Readers: The articles printed in Lifestyles After 50 do not necessarily re ect the opinion of the Editor or the staff. Lifestyles After 50 endeavors to accept reliable advertising; however, we cannot be held responsible by the public for advertising claims. Lifestyles After 50 reserves the right to refuse or discontinue any advertisement. Our advertising deadline for each issue is the 15th of the previous month. Magazines are out by the 10th of each month. All rights reserved.

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Photo by James Patterson

Keep Your Balance!

By Jan Larraine Cox

We’ve all lost our balance at one time or another. It’s usually not catastrophic, but maybe an injury slowed us down at an inconvenient time. This past June, I was rushing on a restaurant’s bumpy and wet patio floor, and although I did see the orange and white cone placed there, I tripped on the uneven surface and did end up spending months recovering. Why not learn to maintain balance and continue with life’s agenda as planned? Maybe I can help you prevent the same sequence of events through my unfortunate learning experience.

The National Council on Aging reports that one quarter of Americans over 65 fall each year. This is connected to both aging and the lack of physical activity, both of which lead to weakness and brittle bones. Age-related muscle loss begins in one’s 40’s and continues until in our 70’s, when we’ve lost half of muscle mass – unless we fight the process, with resistance or strength training, for example. Our legs need to carry us while we walk and stand, and be strong enough to climb stairs, resisting gravity.

Balance keeps our weight distributed in such a way that we can stay upright, whether standing or moving, thanks to strong muscles and bones enabling us to maintain a center of gravity. With a physical therapist, find exercises that increase strength and mobility while preventing a fall. Remember to warm up, with motions like marching in place, shoulder rolls and arm swings.

Your balance system aids in changing position from sitting to standing, and good balance keeps you cognizant of the position of your head in relation to the ground. Your brain coordinates sensory information retrieved from your eyes, inner ear, the bottoms of your feet, and joints in the ankles, knees and neck. Then the brain delivers a signal to muscles throughout the body and how best to react while maintaining position. All this

information lets you know how you are oriented in space and the speed and direction of your motion.

So, how do we keep ourselves balanced all day as we move around from sitting to standing positions?

Your body has a system of balance:

First, your eyes record the body’s position and surroundings. When light hits the photosensitive cells of your retina, it generates electrical impulses that are communicated to the brain through the optic nerve. Your brain interprets these signals as images which then tell you how fast you’re moving relative to someone walking beside you, for example.

Second, millions of nerve cells called neurons, are located in your skin, muscles and joints. When they are stimulated, they send electrical impulses to your brain about what your body is doing. Especially important is information about which way your head is turned and how steady your ankles are on the ground.

Finally, your vestibular labyrinth is your primary balance organ and it is in your inner ear. We may not be aware of it, but the brain relies on its input for balance, especially when information from the eyes, joints or bottoms of your feet is disrupted in some way.

So, in order to maintain your balance throughout the day, at least two of the three—eyes, musculoskeletal nerves and vestibular labyrinth—must be working well to prevent dizziness and a fall.

Balance 2.0 by Amanda Sterczyk, Kindle Direct Publishing, 2020.

Mayo Clinic: on Better Hearing and Balance, Wayne Olsen, PhD, Medical Editor-in-Chief, Mayo Clinic Health Solutions, 2008.

‘Tis the season for holiday entertaining! Tips to keep the wine flowing as holiday

parties return

Article courtesy of BPT + image photo credit to BPT

This season holiday entertaining will be back in full swing with everything from guest-filled open houses and large family gatherings to big, festive parties expected to make a comeback.

For those of us looking to brush up our entertaining skills as we head into the most festive time of the year, renowned chef and entertaining expert Ashton Keefe has some advice for hosting the perfect holiday get-together. She says the foundation for a great event often starts with the wine selection.

“The goal is to offer a selection that appeals to everyone’s tastes,” Keefe says. “By the time the holidays roll around what your guests want is a great glass of wine, a few satisfying cheese and charcuterie boards… and merriment!”

Keefe recommends always having at least two white and two red options for guests along with a sparkling wine. “For white you can’t go wrong with a hearty chardonnay and a sauvignon blanc for zippy acidity. When it comes to red, I always go pinot noir or a lighter, perhaps chilled red, like Beaujolais and then a big bold cabernet sauvignon or Bordeaux,” she says. “You can also explore new options with a few unexpected bottles in the mix for people to try, and don’t forget to provide low- or no-alcohol choices too,” she advises.

For those who might be worried about having to open too many bottles or wasting those that aren’t finished, a wine-by-the-glass system like Coravin provides the perfect solution. Their range of systems allow you to pour a glass from any bottle and preserve remaining wine for weeks, months or even years.

When it comes to selecting your wine, Keefe says don’t worry about having to be an expert yourself or spending a lot of money. “I always say if you have no idea what to serve, just ask! Your

local wine shop can provide wine options that work with any budget. And investing in a Coravin means you don’t have to worry about wasted wine - or splurging on a few bottles to try - because you’ll always be able to save whatever’s left for your next party.”

Another tip Keefe has for this time of year: embrace color. “This is such a festive season with a rich palette to play with, from room décor to table settings and even gifting.” Keefe’s a fan of the new limited edition Coravin Gemstone Collection, which features the popular Timeless Six+ model in shimmering Anthracite, Deep Emerald and Dark Amethyst, all with striking gold accents.

“We’re all so happy and grateful to be back to holiday parties in full swing,” says Keefe, “and at the end of the day the most important thing is celebrating with friends and family.”

Holiday Massage: The Healthy Holiday Gift That Keeps On Giving

By Michele D. Baker

Massage and bodywork are not only great for your skin, a boon to your circulatory system, and relaxing to the body and mind, but they also make wonderful holiday gifts. This season, add to your self-care regimen by including gift certificates to a massage therapist near you.

There are dozens of kinds of massage to choose from, depending on what kind of results you’re looking for. Have a sore back? Ask for deep tissue massage and fascial release. Recovering from illness or surgery? Try Reflexology on hands and feet. Want to feel pampered and enjoy a spa day? Your therapist could begin with a facial and then move on to Swedish massage and hot stones.

Other options include Rolfing (an intense massage great for athletic seniors), Shiatsu (focuses on energy meridians of the body to promote healing), acupressure (pressure on certain points like the wrists and ankles), or even couples massage. No matter which style you pick, choose a licensed therapist you feel comfortable with, set aside a couple hours, and slip away into complete relaxation.

Although bodywork is very safe, if you have serious medical conditions, talk with your doctor first, and let your massage therapist know about prescriptions or other medicines you take. Your medicines might preclude certain types of massage – for example, taking a blood thinner might increase your chance of bruising with deeper pressure.

ABOUT THE COVER NOV. 25 – JAN. 3: OAKDALE CHRISTMAS HOUSE LIGHT DISPLAY

Kids and parents alike will love the 46th annual holiday lights display, one of the largest and longest running home displays in the United States. Wander among the half-acre yard’s small pond, magical waterfalls and fountains, all draped with a quarter of a million twinkling lights. There’s an 18-car scale railroad with moving planes and carnival rides, animated figures, and inflatable decorations. The display was a top 3 finalist on NBC’s Today Show, featured on HGTV’s All Out Christmas Special, and featured in PEOPLE Magazine. FREE. Oakdale Christmas House, 2719 Oakdale Street S, St. Petersburg. ChristmasDisplay.org

Movie Preview: Emancipation

BY RANDAL C. HILL

It was the slap seen and heard around the world: Will Smith smacked Chris Rock across the face during the live 94th annual Oscar ceremony, this coming after Rock made an unkind remark about Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith. Since then, A-lister Smith has repeatedly apologized for his actions, but moviegoers now have concerns about the damage done to his career. A Best Actor award winner for “King Richard” at the same ceremony, Smith has now been banned from attending the prestigious ceremony for the next decade.

However, he can still be in contention for Academy Awards. Smith stars in the forthcoming “Emancipation,” a historical thriller that is already generating Oscar buzz at advanced showings. The monochrome movie is based on a true story and tells of a runaway Louisiana plantation slave named Peter, who plans to escape through the nearby swamps after a savage whipping nearly kills him. Before he flees, Peter shares his plan with some of his fellow slaves. One of them warns, “There are many ways to die in a swamp,” to which Peter responds, “There are many ways to die here.”

Image from Apple TV

On his 10-day journey, Peter is pursued through the daunting morass by vicious bloodhounds and slave hunters on horseback. Once safely in the North, his back

is photographed. The image appeared in the July 4, 1863, issue of Harper’s Weekly, which ran the heart-wrenching photo under the title “The Scourged Back.” Readers around the world registered shock when they viewed Peter’s hideous constellation of thick scars crisscrossed with welts and strafe marks. That photo is said to have hastened the abolition movement.

“Emancipation” was written by Bill Collage and directed by Antoine Fuqua. “We have a lot of healing to do here,” Fuqua says, “but if we can look with open hearts and open minds and have a real conversation about the ugly brutality and reality of slavery that might help with the healing. I think it is important for people to see that.”

“Throughout my career, I have turned down many films that were set in slavery,” finishes Will Smith. “I never wanted to show us like that. And then this picture came along. It is a film about the heart of a man and what can be called the first viral image. Cameras had just been created, and that image of what Peter went through went around the world and was a rallying cry against slavery.”

“Emancipation” premieres in theaters on Dec. 2 and on Apple TV a week later.

1From a preferred cost-share retail or mail-order pharmacy. 2One set of complete or partial dentures every five years. Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas counties. CarePlus is an HMO plan with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in CarePlus depends on contract renewal. Referrals and/ or authorization may be required for certain specialists. Every year, Medicare evaluates plans based on a 5-star rating system. CarePlus Health Plans, Inc. complies with applicable Federal Civil Rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, ancestry, marital status, or religion in their programs and activities, including in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, their programs and activities. Any inquiries regarding CarePlus’ non-discrimination policies and/or to file a complaint, also known as a grievance, please contact Member Services at 1-800-794-5907 (TTY: 711). From October 1 – March 31, we are open 7 days a week, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. From April 1 – September 30, we are open Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. You may always leave a voicemail after hours, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays and we will return your call within one business day. Español (Spanish): Esta información está disponible de forma gratuita en otros idiomas. Favor de llamar a Servicios para Afiliados al número que aparece anteriormente. Kreyol Ayisyen (French Creole): Enfomasyon sa a disponib gratis nan lot lang. Tanpri rele nimewo Sevis pou Manm nou yo ki nan lis anwo an.

Old-Fashioned Hanukkah Latkes

The Jewish festival of lights begins at sundown on December 18 this year, and families everywhere will begin peeling potatoes and heating up frying pans. Potato pancakes, or latkes, pay tribute to the miracle of the holiday, when a small jug of oil kept the menorah in the Jewish temple lit for eight days (instead of just one). Now, people around the world celebrate Hanukkah by eating oily, fried foods, and luscious latkes are at the top of the “let’s eat” list.

Ingredients:

• 2 large Russet potatoes (about 1 lb.), scrubbed and cut lengthwise into quarters

• 1 large onion, peeled and quartered

• 2 eggs

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 teaspoons kosher salt

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• Safflower or other oil for frying

• Applesauce

• Sour cream (optional)

1. Using a food processor with a coarse grating disk, grate potatoes and onion. Pour into a clean dish towel and squeeze to remove as much liquid as possible.

2. In a large bowl, add potatoes, eggs, flour, salt, baking powder and pepper and mix until flour is absorbed.

3. Heat about ¼” of oil in a heavy bottomed skillet over medium high heat. Once the oil is hot (a

BOOK REVIEW

The usual Christmas books are pulled from shelves to re-read, give as gifts, or just decorate the mantle, and this gem is no exception. It contains a multitude of little-known facts about the holidays to share with guests following your holiday feast. “The Little Book of Christmas: Ho Ho Ho” is by Joanna Gray (2019). Enjoy!

• The all-time favorite Christmas film is Frank Capra’s “It’s a Wonderful Life” (1946) starring James Stewart and Donna Reed.

• Elves were first mentioned in “Christmas Elves” by Louisa M. Alcott in 1856.

• Since the 1970’s – thanks to an advertising campaign – it’s become a Christmas tradition in Japan to enjoy a bucket of Kentucky Fried Chicken.

• Around AD 350, Pope Julius I proclaimed that Jesus was born on Dec. 25, so that’s the date we still observe.

• Christmas trees need to grow for 15 years before they can be sold.

• In 1843, Sir Henry Cole, a Victorian businessman, commissioned John Callcott Horsley to design a card showing a happy family enjoying Christmas; 1,000 cards were printed and sold. (In 2020, more than 2 billion were sent in America alone.)

• President Grover Cleveland decorated the White House tree with electric lights in 1895.

• In 1968, Apollo 8 broadcast live from its journey around the moon, the most watched program up to that time.

drop of water placed in the pan should sizzle), drop batter by heaping tablespoons into the pan, cooking in batches. Use a spatula to flatten and shape disks. When the edges are brown and crispy (about 5 minutes), flip and cook the second side about another 5 minutes. Transfer to paper towel and drain. Sprinkle with salt and serve warm with applesauce and/or sour cream. Makes about 2-3 dozen latkes.

Christmas Facts You’ll Treasure: A Review of “The Little Book of Christmas: Ho Ho Ho” by

Kathy A. Megyeri

• Santa’s sleigh would have to travel at 2,340,000 mph to reach every home on Christmas Eve.

• In 1931, illustrator Haddon Sundblom designed a Coca-Cola drinking Santa, which cemented Santa’s image globally.

• The first artificial Christmas tree was created in Germany out of goose feathers dyed green.

• About 25-30 million real Christmas trees are sold annually in America.

• The all-time best-selling Christmas single is Bing Crosby’s “White Christmas,” with over 50 million copies since 1942.

• North American Aerospace Defense Command’s (NORAD) Santa Tracker has 1.8 million Facebook followers and follows Santa’s progress around the globe from the North Pole.

• In 1839, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer got his start as an advertising gimmick for Montgomery Ward.

Experts Concerned About Long-Term Impacts From Red Tide Algal Blooms in SWFL

Since Hurricane Ian, red tide has been blooming across Southwest Florida, according to ABC 7 News.

Most beaches in Southwest Florida have been closed due to potential debris threats in the water, but The Calusa Waterkeeper reported that blooms are now present in both Naples and in Sanibel.

Dr. Mike Parsons, a professor of marine science at FGCU, said this is about the time of the year when blooms become present along the Gulf Coast. “It’s hard to say right now if the Hurricane (Ian) is to blame for what we’ve been seeing, but it’s not necessarily impossible that long-term impacts would be worse,” said Parsons.

Red tide poses more problems than just a stinky mess, it means less business for charter boat captains like Tadem Stewart. “Right now I’m working construction,” said Stewart.

He is one of the many boat captains that shuttled people by boat to and from Sanibel and Captiva islands after Hurricane Ian destroyed parts of the causeway bridge. “For a while business was going great, but once the bridge went back up, nobody wanted to go fishing and no one needed a ride to get back to the island,” said Stewart.

FGCU said it is running water quality tests that are currently being processed. “We will know more soon about the red tide versus bacterial problems, but right now the big issue I think is the long-term impacts,” said Parsons.

Make it your day with a matinee

Do you think you’ve got the cutest pet? Show him or her off in the next issue of Lifestyles! We’re looking for the best dressed and most festive companions that our audience has to offer. See information on how to submit your fur baby for the contest below:

For submissions:

Send us a little bit about your pet (100 words or less) along with the best photo in their modeling portfolio and what city you live in to michele.baker@lifestylesafter50.com with the words “Cutest Pet” in the subject line, or through our Facebook at www.facebook.com/LifestylesAfter50.

Submissions must be before the 15th of every month, otherwise it will be held for a potential feature in the following issue’s publication. Include your name, phone number and Florida city. Submissions are published on a basis of what space is available.

MORNING COFFEE CONCERT

Best of Ballet

From Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker to Falla’s The Three-Cornered Hat and more. Stuart Malina conducts.

Thu, Dec 15, 11 am, Mahaffey Theater

SPECIAL CONCERT Classical Christmas Carols

Michael Francis evokes a traditional English Christmas.

Sun, Dec 18, 2 pm, Straz Center

COFFEE CONCERT

Let’s Dance

With Bernstein’s West Side Story Overture, Rodgers’ Slaughter on 10th Avenue and more.

Thu, Jan 12, 11 am, Mahaffey Theater

HOUGH FAMILY FOUNDATION MASTERWORKS Beethoven’s

Pastoral Symphony

Featuring Mozart’s Violin Concerto No. 3 with Nancy Chang.

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA for even more chances to win prizes and gift cards Instagram: @lifestylesafter50 Facebook: Lifestyles After 50 Twitter: @50lifestyles

QUITCLAIM DEED NOT ALWAYS BEST CHOICE

by William R. Mumbauer - Attorney - www.flwillstrustsprobate.com

A reader asks: I asked my attorney to prepare a Quitclaim Deed to transfer a small lot I own to my daughter. However, my attorney told me that I needed a different type of deed. Is he correct?

Answer: Yes.

First, your attorney is absolutely correct in having misgivings about preparing a Quitclaim Deed. Although Florida Appellate Courts have unanimously ruled that a Quitclaim Deed will effectively convey, or transfer, an interest in real property, it is not the appropriate choice in your situation. This is because although a Quitclaim Deed does, indeed, convey title, the maker of a Quitclaim Deed is not professing that the title being transferred is valid. A Quitclaim Deed should only

be used in those rare instances when a deed is necessary to clear a cloud on the title, but not necessarily to convey any legal interest.

As an example, suppose a title examination in anticipation of a sale of real property discloses that for whatever reason you may have some interest, or “claim”, in certain real property, but you know that you actually don’t have any such interest. In a case like this, it would be entirely inappropriate to sign a deed purporting to convey a legal interest in real property when you know no such interest actually exists. This is where a Quitclaim Deed comes in handy because a Quitclaim Deed does not purport to convey a legal interest in real property, but only to disclaim such an interest, should an interest happen to exist.

PEACE RIVER BOTANICAL & SCULPTURE GARDENS PRESENTS

GARDENS AGLOW

Mr. Mumbauer, a 5th generation Floridian, has maintained a law practice in Brandon, Florida since 1980 with emphasis on estate planning. Mr. Mumbauer takes special pride in representing the senior community by maintaining a sensitive and practical approach to problem solving. Mr. Mumbauer is a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys and the Elder Law Section of the Florida Bar. Mr. Mumbauer is also a Mentor in probate law and has been qualified by the Second District Court of Appeal in Florida as an expert witness in matters involving the drafting of Wills. Mr. Mumbauer’s Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review Rating among judges and lawyers for Legal Ability is High to Very High and his General Recommendation Rating is Very High. His articles are based on general principles of law and are not intended to apply to individual circumstances.

THE HEALTHY GEEZER

Q. My skin has all kinds of small thingies on it like my father used to have. My doctor checks them out and says they are all harmless. What exactly are they?

A. As we age, most of us start sprouting an array of unwanted growths. Let’s go over the common ones:

LIVER SPOTS – The official name for liver or age spots is “lentigines” from the Latin for “lentil.” These are flat, brown with rounded edges and are larger than freckles. Not dangerous.

KERATOSES—Seborrheic keratoses are brown or black raised spots, or wart-like growths that appear to be stuck to the skin. They are harmless. Actinic keratoses are thick, warty, rough, reddish growths. They may be a precursor to skin cancer.

CHERRY ANGIOMAS are small, bright-red raised bumps created by dilated blood vessels. They occur in more than 85% of seniors, usually on the trunk. These are not dangerous.

TELANGIECTASIA are dilated facial blood vessels.

SKIN TAGS—These are bits of skin that project outward. They may be smooth or irregular, flesh colored or more deeply pigmented. They can either be raised above the surrounding skin or have a stalk so that the tag hangs from the skin. They are benign. Now we get into the cancers of the skin.

SQUAMOUS CELL CARCINOMAS—These are in the outer layers of the skin. They are closely associated with aging. These are capable of spreading to other organs. They are small, firm, reddened nodules or flat growths. (They may also be cone-shaped.) Their surfaces may be scaly or crusted.

BASAL CELL CARCINOMAS—These are the most common of the skin cancers. They develop in the basal layer below the surface of the skin. Basal cell carcinomas seldom spread to other parts of the

body. They usually appear as small, shiny bumps or pinpoint, red bleeding areas on the head, face, nose, neck or chest.

MELANOMAS—The melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer. Melanomas can spread to other organs and can be fatal. They usually appear as dark brown or black mole-like growths with irregular borders and variable colors. They usually arise in a pre-existing mole or other pigmented lesion.

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. About half of all Americans who live to age 65 will have skin cancer. Ultraviolet radiation from the sun is the main cause of skin cancer. Although anyone can get skin cancer, the risk is greatest for people who have fair skin.

All skin cancers can be cured if they are treated before they spread. The most common warning sign of skin cancer is a change on the skin, especially a new growth or a sore that doesn’t heal. Check your skin often. Look for changes in the size, shape, color, or feel of birthmarks, moles, and spots. Go to a doctor if you see anything on your skin that might be a problem.

If you are a fair-skinned senior, dermatologists recommend you get a full-body skin exam once a year, but it’s a good idea for any senior.

All Rights Reserved © 2022 by Fred Cicetti

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

of

1930’s Holiday Divinity Fudge

This is the holiday fudge my grandmother gave as gifts every year. She’d also sell tins of it at the annual church bazaar fundraiser. Happy eating!

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups white sugar

• 1/2 cup water

• 1/2 cup light corn syrup

• 2 egg whites

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans

• pecan halves, green or red maraschino halves for decoration (optional)

1. Beat egg whites until stiff and set aside.

2. In a heavy bottomed saucepan, cook sugar, water and corn syrup over medium high heat until it reaches 260 degrees on a candy thermometer (OR when the mixture thickens, drop a small amount into a saucer of cold water; if it thickens into a gel consistency and holds together, it’s ready), about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat. Pour in a thin, steady stream

into the beaten egg whites and beat with an electric mixer on high for about 3 minutes, scraping the sides of the bowl. Add the vanilla and continue beating on high until the candy just begins to lose its gloss, 5-6 minutes. (When the beaters are lifted, the mixture should fall in a ribbon that mounds in on itself.) Add the chopped pecans and stir to mix.

3. Drop by tablespoons onto wax or parchment paper and top with half a pecan or a maraschino cherry. Makes about 4 dozen pieces.

“You’re So Vain” by Carly Simon

BY: RANDAL C. HILL

You walked into the party like you were walking onto a yacht Your hat strategically dipped below one eye, your scarf it was apricot You had one eye in the mirror as you watched yourself gavotte And all the girls dreamed that they’d be your partner, they’d be your partner And you’re so vain, you probably think this song is about you Don’t you, don’t you?

Some lyrics of Carly Simon’s #1 hit “You’re So Vain” left many music fans scratching their heads in wonder.

Let’s start with the little-known word gavotte. “A gavotte is a French dance,” Simon explains. “I thought I would use a word that was slightly presumptuous… He’s gavotting because that’s what a pretentious, vain man would do.”

Then there is that mysterious line, “There were clouds in my coffee.” That statement came about during a flight that Simon took with her piano player, Billy Merritt. She explains, “As I got my coffee, Billy said to me, ‘Look at the clouds in your coffee.’ There were clouds outside the window of the airplane, and you could see the reflection.” (And we were supposed to figure this out?)

But the question that most fans asked was: Who was Simon ridiculing in this Elektra Records tune that topped the Billboard Singles chart for three weeks in the waning days of 1972? That song, which took nearly a year of Simon’s time to create, came from her third LP “No Secrets,” and remained in the Billboard Album top spot for over a month.

Simon claims that “You’re So Vain” actually refers to three famous, arrogant individuals, and has stated that ex-husband James Taylor and Rolling Stone Mick Jagger are not the men she had in mind when she put pen to paper. Possible candidates—deep breath here—have included David Bowie, Cat Stevens, Kris Kristofferson, David Cassidy and Jack Nicholson. “I was brought up by a mother who was adamant that you didn’t even kiss a man until you were in love with him,” Simon has admitted. “So I was in love with a lot of men. I was besotted by the lads! I was definitely a romantic.”

Recently, Simon admitted that the second verse — but only the second verse – was about actor Warren Beatty:

You had me several years ago, when I was still quite naïve

Well, you said that we made such a pretty pair and that you would never leave

But you gave away the things you loved, and one of them was me

I had some dreams, they were clouds in my coffee, clouds in my coffee

In August 2003, Simon agreed to reveal the unknown names to the highest bidder of a Martha’s Vineyard charity auction. The head of NBC Sports, Dick Ebersole, won with a bid of $50,000, but he had to agree to keep the secret, so, to this day, Carly Simon’s mystery men have remained a mystery.

Grab Your Jingle Bells: It’s a Christmas Scavenger Hunt!

From Bonita Springs and Cape Coral to Venice and Zephyrhills, it’s the holiday season! Whether it’s partners, friends, or grandkids, get out and about with this whimsical scavenger hunt.

The rules are simple: take a fun photo of yourself with as many items as you can in a certain amount of time (say, 2 hours) and then rejoin the group. Upload all the photos to a laptop and play the slideshow during your Christmas party. Fun extra: the couple or team with the most items wins a silly prize!

• Something red

• Something green

• Red and green plaid

• Candy cane

• Christmas card

• Eggnog

• Candle

• Star

• Christmas train

• Posing with Santa

• Naughty scene

• Nativity scene

• Snowman

• Silver bell

• Red stocking

• The Grinch

• Holly and berries

• Something sparkly

• A decorated mailbox

• Kiss under the mistletoe

• Christmas party on the calendar

• North Pole sign

• Someone laughing

• Christmas lights

• Gingerbread house

• Snowflake

• Someone sleeping

• Christmas sweater

• Red bow

• Dirty dishes

• Elf on a shelf

• Someone jumping in midair

• Christmas wreath

• Santa hat on the beach

• Nutcracker

• Snow globe

• Someone singing carols

• Rudolph

• Christmas-themed baked goods

• Cranberry and popcorn decoration

• Animal dressed up for Christmas

• Receipt for exactly $12.25

• Homemade Christmas tree ornament

Q&As about Supplemental Security Income

Information from Social Security Administration

QUESTION

I filed for disability, and they denied it. What can I do?

V. Morittizo, Plantation, Florida ANSWER

If we recently denied your claim for retirement, disability benefits, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or a nonmedical related issue, you can appeal our decision. Generally, you have 60 days after you receive the notice of our decision to ask for any type of appeal.

QUESTION

I receive SSI benefits, and I am 67 years old. I won a scratch lottery ticket, and I didn’t think I had to report it, and I now received a letter that I have an overpayment. What is an overpayment.

A. Fuentes, Florida City, Florida

ANSWER

An overpayment is when you receive more money for a month than the amount you should have been paid. The amount of your overpayment is the difference between the amount you received and the amount due.

QUESTION - PART 1 OF 2

I retired last year at age 62, I received a letter yesterday, that I have an overpayment. What can cause an overpayment?

J. Niles, Weston, Florida

ANSWER

• Your income is more than you estimated.

• Your living situation changes.

• Your marital status changes.

• You have more resources than the allowable limit.

• You are no longer disabled and continue to receive benefits.

• You do not report a change to us (on time or at all) as required.

• We incorrectly figure your benefits because of incorrect or incomplete information.

QUESTION - PART 2 OF 2

What will Social Security do with this overpayment?

ANSWER

We will send you a notice explaining the overpayment and asking for a full refund within 30 days. If you are currently getting payments and you do not make a full refund, the notice will:

• propose to withhold the overpayment at the rate of the lesser of 10 percent or the entire monthly payment;

• state the month the proposed withholding will start;

• fully explain your appeal rights;

• explain how you can ask us to review and waive the overpayment, so you may not have to pay it back; and

• explain how you can appeal our decision

Are you an aspiring writer, poet or artist? Or maybe you want to try your hand at any of the above? We want to share your art! Read directions on how to submit your work below:

For submissions:

Send your short story or poem (150 words or less) or a photo of your artwork to Michele.Baker@ lifestylesafter50.com with the words “Creative Corner” in the subject line, or through our Facebook at www.facebook.com/LifestylesAfter50. Please include which Florida city you currently live in and your name. Artwork must be before the 15th of every month, otherwise it will be held as potential news for the following issue’s publication. Artwork is published on a basis of what space is available.

Christmas events

Dec. 1-31: King Fisher Fleet Lighted Canal Cruises

A Punta Gorda Tradition, enjoy a beautiful Lighted Christmas Canal Cruises tour in Punta Gorda Isles, offered by King Fisher Fleet. Departs from Fishermen’s Village 3 times/night. $29 and up, reservations required. Fishermen’s Village, Punta Gorda

Dec. 4:

First Academy of Music Christmas Recital

Enjoy a concert by the students from First Academy of Music as they usher in the holiday. First Presbyterian Church of Bonita Springs, 9751 Bonita Beach Rd., Bonita Springs

Dec. 4: Gardens Aglow

Stroll through thousands of lights, sing along with Christmas carols, and take pictures with Santa. Roast S’mores over the fire pit or grab a hot chocolate, enter the Christmas tree raffle, or visit the Christmas gift shop. $20. Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens, 5827 Riverside Drive, Punta Gorda

Dec. 9: Movies in the Park Sponsored by the City of Bonita Springs, enjoy a FREE showing of “The Polar Express” (PG: 2004). Grab a blanket or a chair for the outdoor movie experience! Food and beverage available for purchase. Downtown Bonita Springs Riverside Park, 10450 Reynolds St., Bonita Springs

Dec. 12: Holiday Pops – The Southwest Florida Symphony Orchestra with guest artist Andrew Lipke

“In Search of The Perfect Christmas Song” featuring guest artist Maestro Andrew Lipke. Explore an instrumental mash-up of Nutcracker themes blended with holiday favorites and write brand new lyrics with audience participation for “The 12 Days of FLORIDA Christmas.” $25. The Village Church at Shell Point, 15100 Shell Point Blvd, Fort Myers

Dec. 13: Holiday Pops – The Southwest Florida Symphony Orchestra with guest artist Andrew Lipke

Encore performance. $25. First Presbyterian Church of Bonita Springs, 9751 Bonita Beach Road SE, Bonita Springs

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

TO COME UP SMELLING LIKE A NOSE

It’s not a Christmas present, but I am getting a special gift this December. It’s something I never expected, dreamed of nor wished for, but it is very practical and actually quite functional, not just for looks. For all intents and purposes, I am getting a new nose. My old one has served me quite well all these years, but it’s time for a change.

Last July, I emerged from the community pool with a sunburnt nose and a particular red spot that would not go away, no matter what lotions and potions I put on it. It didn’t hurt and it didn’t itch. I went to my family doctor, who sent me to a dermatologist. The bad news is that it was basal cell melanoma, not all that uncommon in the Sunshine state. The good news: it’s among the least aggressive and non-invasive forms of cancer.

I visualized myself leafing through a nose catalogue to choose my next schnoz. Should I go for the Owen Wilson, the Albert Einstein, or the Patrick Dempsey? In my twenties I’d been compared to Paul Newman. Maybe I could opt for his nose and recover my youth. I finally decided that I want a silver nose like the one Lee Marvin sported in “Cat Ballou.” Actually, it doesn’t really matter as long as it has two nostrils and can draw breath.

Likely they’ll just restore the one I have, possibly with scars. If so, I’ll just tell everyone I got them during a sword fighting competition. “You should see the other guy!”

Mike Wright’s wife is coulrophobic and refuses to let him substitute the nose he bought at Walgreen’s for “Red Nose Day.” If you want it, please contact him.

See darkness in a whole new light. Engage your senses as you envision life from a new perspective.

Step into the shoes of someone living in the shadows of blindness. Walk into the world of a veteran surviving memories of combat. And see for yourself how some of the most intelligent, talented dogs on this planet help people journey beyond the dark. Discover why everyone is raving about this acclaimed multisensory experience. Reserve your seat today.

GuideDogs.org/Dark

GuideDogs.org/Dark

Sudoku

Sudoku requires no arithmetic skills.

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

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.

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

APRIL W ord Sea rch

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 twenty answers in this puzzle?

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?

Good Luck!

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)

MYSTERY PRIzE!

Nichole Veesaert, Apollo Beach

Josephine Jimenez,

Charles-Henri

CREATIVE CORNER

The orange tree blooms after Ian

Scent of sweet citrus

Fills our lanai

Color of creativity is orange Trees are amazing grace

Lighting up our lives

Almost Christmas

For submissions: Send your poem (150 words or less) to Michele.Baker@ lifestylesafter50.com with the words “Creative Corner” in the subject line.

How to Get Fido to Wear Jingle Bells and Santa Hat in 3 Easy Steps

By: Eugenia Chen, CEO of Pandaloon

The holiday season is here, and while you’re pulling out your Christmas sweaters, bring out Fido’s, too! Here are some tips for getting your pet into his holiday best:

Make a slow introduction

Oftentimes, we want to jump into seeing our pets wear their silly Santa hat or sweater without considering that it’s a new experience for them. Take the time to introduce clothes to pets slowly. Start by putting clothes near them, then set clothes on part of their body, and gradually work your way to putting their head through the hole and finally getting them on. This can be done in a few minutes to a few hours and maybe even days early – it depends on your pet.

Use positive reinforcement

Any time your pet shows interest in the clothes – such as sniffing and interacting with them – offer a reward. If your pet is food motivated, use treats to show them that clothes are a good thing, or maybe a simple “good boy” or “good girl” and a scratch behind the ears will make them happy. Positive reinforcement is shown to have great results in training pets.

Choose comfortable outfits

Most of us know the feeling of wearing uncomfortable clothes that restrict our movement, are too hot, itchy, etc. Pets feel the same exact way in clothes, so choose something that works for Fido’s lifestyle and ensures he’s comfortable. For example, Pandaloon.com makes holiday costumes that are lightweight and adjustable with an open back to properly ventilate.

Orange Tree, by Paula Timpson

enjoys the holidays almost as much as his extensive staff. Happy Holidays from St. Pete!

WOMEN SEEKING MEN

WOMEN SEEKING MEN

5525 – FRIENDS FIRST. ISO W widower, 8/0’s, honest, SOH, HWP, NS, LT SD. (ME) Attractive, WW, 5’4”, 120 lbs, Enjoy life, it goes by so fast. Ft Myers to Naples area.

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.

5538 SEEKING HONEST COMPANION. ISO W. Widower, NS, ND, loving partner to enjoy life. Secure, happy and healthy. I am Filipina lady, easy and outgoing, petite, very honest, physically fit. Please reply with letter, photo & phone. Thanks

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.

5532 BEAUTIFUL LADY looking forward to meeting the man of her dreams here. A man between the ages of 49 to 79 yrs. old. I am looking for someone to share with me the simple pleasures of life. I am willing to relocate and enjoy life with that special person that contacts me. Lets meet and have fun.

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.

5540 – BEAUTIFUL BLACK QUEEN. 80yy, ISO friend/king, 75+, intellectual, P, astute, honest, single, SOH, NS, SD. Enjoys reading, poetry, reggae, classics, jazz, swimming. No wife. Tampa. Send name and phone number.

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.

5544 – ACTIVE - ADVENTUROUS

- PHYSICALLY FIT. W, WW, HWP. Passionate, fun-loving, easy-going, straight forward. I like bowling and exploring the outdoors. What’s your story? Seeking male 65-89. St. Petersburg.

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.

5547 – COUPLE SEEKING FRIENDS. WM,64. WF, 63 looking for fun, excitement. Trying new experiences. Open minded to all who’s interested. Couples. Singles. Contact us. Clearwater.

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.

5549 – SEEKING FUN, FRIVOLITY, FANTASY freely with a fantastic man. Not necessarily of my dreams. Definitely NOT from my nightmares. Me over 60, eclectic interests, OM, smart and sassy.

5551 IN SEARCH OF COMPANION. SWF ISO M, companion around the Englewood vicinity. I am 68 yy, R,5’3”, HWP, NS, D, NDrg, active lifestyle. I am an avid beginner sailor/boater. Would like to travel. Looking for similar. FF the hopefully LTR.

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.

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.

5552 ISO ST PETE MALE. 60’s, recently retired to Florida. Looking for fun companion to enjoy all this area has to offer. Fit and healthy. 5’, NS, educated, attractive.

5556 – SEEKING SINCERE, HONEST COMPANION. I’m 80yy. B, H, C, F. Like to swim and travel. NS, NDrg, R, P. Seeking male, 65 to 89. Send name and phone number.

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.

5557 – I’M TRYING! I’m looking for someone who doesn’t think he’s better than everyone else. I’m 79yy, 5’5”, blue

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.

eyes, white hair. NS, ND, NDrg, SOH, HWP. I’m told I look younger than I am but looks aren’t everything. It’s what’s in the heart & soul. I like to dance to the 50’s & 60’s & country music. I’d like to meet a man in his late 70’s to early 80’s and healthy. SOH, HWP, and a good heart & soul. Please send phone number. Good luck & GOD bless.

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.

5558 – SEEKING INTELLECTUAL not afraid to voice opinions. SM 75 to 85 who is not intimidated by educated female, who likes to learn. Must love dogs, have a tongue in cheek sense of humor & likes touch.

5561 – LOOKING FOR A NICE, HONEST SOULMATE. I enjoy dancing, beaches, walks and cooking home made meals. I am honest, affectionate, sincere, romantic, compassionate. I also love giving back rubs to my man.

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!

MEN SEEKING WOMEN

5537 DSWM A YOUNG 81 attractive looks 70. Looking for a gal to share my life with. Love travel, dining, dance. Has a nice family. Lives in Nokomis. Will move.

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.

5545 – W GUY, 77, ISO W GAL OVER 50. I’m almost housebound, but I like to drive. Not great looking but I got heart. I want a gal t love. I appreciate kindness, United States and God. NS, ND, NDrg. Please write letter. Pasco/ Pinellas/Hillsborough.

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

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.

5546 – MAY I HAVE THIS DANCE. SWM, 70’s+ wishes to meet mature lady interested in travel, reading and staying young. Non smoker. Must have great sense of humor. Sarasota/Bradenton.

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.

5548 – SEEKING COMPANIONSHIP/ PARTNER in life. Semi-retired, S. A. male, 5’6”, medical and financially secure. Loves travel, scenic drives, cruises, ballroom dance, plays, classical piano. Seeking nice lovely lady 76-88 y/o.

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

5550 WHAT’S YOUR FANTASY? WM, 61, HWP, single, looking for discreet playful partner relationship. Role play. Bedroom games possible. Could lead to a LTR. You never know?

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.

5554 MAN FOR LADY. 75, D, W, NS, SD, HWP, tall. I’m attractive for an old guy. Seeking nice person 69-80. See what develops. Near Pt. Charlotte.

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.

5553 YOU NEVER KNOW. WM, 60, 6ft, HWP, likes simple activities, casual start, open minded. Seeking female, 45-65, N. Tampa/Lutz area. Text/Talk see if any connection. Send note - I’ll answer.

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.

5559 – SWM, 61, Great looking, fit, loves outdoors, kayaking, beach going, camping. Seeking youthful, sexy, energetic woman to enjoy life in paradise! Time to have fun! Life’s to short!

5416 - LOOKING FOR COMPANION. SWM

5560 – MAN SEEKING MAN. Open minded, St Pete senior seeking alpha boss man for fun get togethers.

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

5562 – HAPPY HOLIDAYS – YIKES! Hi…. SWM, 5’6”, 175 lbs., 76yy. NS, ND, SOH, SD, condo. Likes happy hour, elks, dancing, restaurants, TV, shopping, kissing, holding hands. ISO SWF or Asian, SOH, fun, smiles, easy going and enjoys life. Pinellas Park.

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.

5563 – FUN-LOVING TRAVELER. Good energy, active, agile, gym rat, in shape, eat right 90%. Likes music, sing along, sports, indoor/outdoor activities. Ready to share with openminded female. LTR. Fort Myers.

5564 – AFFECTIONATE SWM SEEKING RELOCATEABLE GAL for companion, best friend, lover, life partner. I am secure, easygoing, romantic. 5’7”, 150#, NS, ND. Share our lives, save that rent. Write me, send photo, phone please.

5565 – LAID BACK, EASY GOING. I like country music, dining out, movies and spending quality time with you. I am a good listener and in good health and very active. Wesley Chapel.

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.

Better Health. It’s About Time. The VIPcare Patient Experience

Going to see your doctor is probably never on your list of things to do for fun; however, it’s important in maintai ning your health, especially for adults 65 and older. Pa tients who have an ongoing relationship with their pri mary care physician have fewer unnecessary trips to the ER. That’s why you need a doctor that you’re comfortable with and who you trust. One you can turn to 24/7.

Quality over Quantity

It can be hard to find that doctor with whom you truly connect. Healthcare has become so rushed. It’s like doc tors compete to see the most patients. Sadly, that doesn’t leave much time for one-on-one time.

That was the key difference Dan and Tina DiFrancesco noticed with VIPcare after moving from Pennsylva nia. “They make you feel like you’re the only one,” Tina said. “It’s really the first doctor that I’ve had like that.”

Time for a Better Experience

Dan had two doctors before visiting VIPcare. He ad mits they were nice but immediately noticed a different

experience upon switching. “The doctors, they care,” he said. “You get an X-ray or something, they call you, ‘how did you make out.’”

By taking the time to know you and your health his tory, your primary care physician can provide you with the specialized care you need and deserve. No more running around from doctor to doctor for answers. Your doctor is your direct link to comprehensive care.

“The whole office, they follow up,” Tina said about her VIPcare experience. “The next day they’re on the phone with you. It’s great.”

Your Journey to Better Health

Real health care is getting you healthy and keeping you healthy. Find a trusted partner in your health and get the care and attention you deserve.

Specializing in Primary Care for Patients with Medicare Advantage

More time with your doctor at every appointment

Same-day urgent care appointments

Preventative and chronic care management

MetroPlaces Introduces Angeline

a groundbreaking 6,200+ acre mixed-use, master planned community that will completely transform Pasco County, Florida. Angeline is destined to be one of west-central Florida’s most innovative, healthy, and sustainable places to call home.

DESIGNED FOR LIVING WELL

Angeline’s first builder, Lennar Homes, is debuting its Active Adult Collection, which are designated single-family homes and villas exclusively for active adults 55 and better. Each home backs up to green spaces for privacy and natural views.

Residents in the Active Adult neighborhood have exclusive access to a private amenity center and clubhouse featuring a resort-style swimming pool, fitness center, tennis, pickleball and bocce ball courts and more. A multitude of elegant gathering areas and on-site dining complete the facility.

Other planned amenities include a 130+ acre regional park and lake, a Lagoon and beach, a Town Center with restaurants and retail, and over 3,600 acres of pristine, undeveloped green space.

A CENTER FOR HEALTHCARE & RESEARCH

Moffitt Cancer Center plans to create a 775-acre research and corporate innovation development within Angeline—an area larger than downtown Tampa. Moffitt’s initial plans include a hospital, research and development space, office, laboratories, pharmacies, educational facilities, hotel, and commercial space. The new research development will be a game-changer in the medical world, envisioned as a new global destination to live, work, and cure cancer.

Neighborhoods within Angeline will also be built with a digital infrastructure to provide high-speed connectivity indoors and outdoors. Lennar’s eight furnished models are now open for potential home buyers to tour.

NEXT-GENERATION AMENITIES

A trail network spanning up to 100 miles is envisioned as the backbone of the community, connecting residents to nature, and providing safe, multi-modal routes to schools, restaurants, and entertainment all within the community.

The first amenity to open will be Angeline Farm, a sustainable fruit and vegetable farm that will be a premier amenity for residents and the greater Pasco County community. As a professionallymanaged farming operation, the farm will offer fresh, local produce for purchase, engaging events, nutrition classes and a variety of educational programming, and so much more.

Angeline will offer residents a thoughtfully-planned blend of greenspace, trails, and a village center with retail and dining. It will be a one-of-a-kind community that will propel Pasco County into the global spotlight as a destination for medical innovation and next-generation living.

For more information, visit MetroPlaces.com.

Our Physicians Lead the Nation in the Quality of Care They Deliver to Patients of Medicare Age

Take charge of your health and schedule with our primary-care physicians today!

We're experts in all the preventive care that's proven to keep you healthier. And we pride ourselves on being there for you when and where you need us most with same-day appointments, telehealth service and after-hours availability.

DAYTONA 500 BUS TRIP Sunday February 19

Just $179 per person includes a race ticket with the ticket value alone of $210 plus $7.00 fee. Seats are located in Sections 414,415,416. 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 $80 (a $100 Value) which includes fan deck viewing area, driver intros, and access to the ballfield for the pre-race concert

RIVERDANCE 25TH ANNIVERSARY SHOW at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall in Sarasota

Wednesday January 11. $119 per person includes ticket and motorcoach transportation.

DANCING WITH THE STARS LIVE at Ruth Eckerd Hall Saturday February 18 $109 per person includes ticket and motorcoach transportation

HARD ROCK CASINO TAMPA

Monday March 13 $45 per person

NEW ORLEANS PRE MARDI GRAS

Monday -Friday February 13-17 $1849 per person (double occupancy), includes Roundtrip transportation to Tampa airport. Roundtrip airfare from Tampa to New Orleans, 5 days, 4 nights’ accommodations in French Quarter, 7 Meals, New Orleans School of Cooking, tour of New Orleans, Mardi Gras World Museum, National World War II Museum, Steamboat Natchez Harbor Cruise, Louisiana Swamp Boat tour, and reserved parade bleacher seating for four parades in New Orleans.

NIAGARA FALLS CANADA

Sunday May 7-Wednesday May 10 $1329 per person (double occupancy) includes round trip airport transportation, round trip nonstop air from Tampa to Buffalo, NY, motorcoach transportation throughout your tour, 3 nights lodging, 6 Meals, Hornblower Cruise Voyage to the Falls, guided tour of Niagara Falls, Skylon Tower, Welland Shipping Canal, Table Rock. Queen Victoria Park, Floral Clock, Greg Frewin Theatre, Winery Tour, Niagara-onthe-Lake, Passport or Passport Card required.

CAPE COD

Sunday-Thursday June 11-15-$1569 per person (double occupancy) includes roundtrip air, airport transportation, 4 nights lodging, 4 Breakfasts, 4 Dinners including a Lobsterbake round trip ferry to Martha’s Vineyard with tour. Guided tour of the Cape to Provincetown with Whale Watch Cruise. Cape Cod Canal Cruise, Guided tour of Hyannis, Kennedy Museum.

KLINE TOURS

(727)-439-5520 | www. klinetours.net/floridadepartures

Fla. Seller of Travel Ref. No ST43118

Serving the Florida Gulf Coast Follow us on Facebook at Kline Tours Florida Gulf Coast

The holidays spring to life in ICE! at Gaylord Palms! Our signature attraction is a whimsical masterpiece of scenes from Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! carved out of two million pounds of boldly colored ice.

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JAN. 1