Lifestyles After 50 Lake/Marion Jan. 2013 edition by Lifestyles After 50 Magazine

www.LifestylesAfter50FL.com • Marion/Lake/Sumter • FREE

January 2013

Defining Moments from 1963 Winter Wonderland Vacation

Discover the Fun at the Florida State Fair Boomer Beat

uper ecipes S R

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Canadians in Florida can find a TD Bank as easily as they can find a golf course Great service and convenience for Canadians at over 1,300 TD Bank locations in the U.S. With TD Cross-Border Banking you can enjoy the convenience of over 1,300 TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank® locations in the U.S., from Maine to Florida. Open a U.S. TD Bank account today and you can enjoy the benefits of easily transferring money between your Canadian based TD Canada Trust account and your TD Bank account in the U.S. You can also apply to TD Bank for a U.S. mortgage1 and credit card2 based on your Canadian and U.S. assets, income and credit history. All while being able to view both your TD Canada Trust and TD Bank accounts online on the same web page. Get the convenience you’ve come to expect in Canada while in the U.S.

Visit a TD Bank for all your cross-border banking needs. Visit tdbank.com/locator to find the location nearest you. Call 1-877-700-2913 for more information.3

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Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 2 P2033_US_News_R_1_rev_ST.indd 1

12/14/12 3:14 PM

A Time For New Beginnings

Dear Readers,

t’s that time of year again: Start a new calendar and think about what we want to accomplish in a new year. Janice Doyle, For me, I’m going Editor to start by trying to lose a few pounds and slow down to more fully enjoy beautiful flowers. Dear Husband has worked hours and hours over the past two years we’ve been married creating a backyard full of beautiful plants. This picture is just one of the twelve colors of hibiscus now in bloom. And, because we also need to laugh, I want to share this poem again.

Congratulations! The Winner Of The Book America's Best Pies Was Sylvana Mielke Of Port Charlotte!

The Month After Christmas T’was the month after Christmas, and all through the house, Nothing would fit me, not even a blouse; The cookies I’d nibbled, the eggnog I had to taste, At the holiday parties had gone to my waist; When I got on the scales there arose such a number! When I walked to the store (less a walk than a lumber), I’d remember the marvelous meals I’d prepared, The gravies and sauces and beef nicely rared; The wine and the rum balls; the bread and the cheese, And the way I’d never said, “No thank you, please.” As I dressed myself in my husband’s old shirt, And prepared once again to do battle with dirt, I said to myself, as only I can, “You can’t spend a winter disguised as a man!” So, away with the last of the sour cream dip. Get rid of the fruit cake, every cracker and chip. Every last bit of cheese that I like must be banished, ’Til all the additional ounces have vanished. I won’t have a cookie, not even a lick. I’ll want only to chew on a long celery stick. I won’t have hot biscuits, or corn bread, or pie, I’ll munch on a carrot and quietly cry. I’m hungry, I’m lonesome, and life is a bore, But isn’t that what January is for? Unable to giggle, no longer a riot. Happy New Year to all and to all a good diet!

Lake, Marion & Sumter Edition Published monthly by News Connection U.S.A., Inc General Manager Dave Tarantul dave@lifestylesafter50.com Publisher/Director of Events & Marketing Kathy J. Beck kathy@lifestylesafter50.com Editor Janice Doyle janice@lifestylesafter50.com Accounting/Ofﬁce Manager Vicki Willis vicki@lifestylesafter50.com Production Supervisor/Graphic Design Kim Burrell kim@lifestylesafter50.com Production Assistant Tracie Schmidt tracie@lifestylesafter50.com Customer Service 1-888-670-0040 customerservice@lifestylesafter50.com

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Did opportunity for success come knocking at your door? We’re looking for stories of successful senior entrepreneurs! If you took a unique opportunity and ran with it after you turned 50, briefly (100 words or less) tell about yourself and your business. We’ll choose several entrepreneurs to tell our readers about. Send your story by email to janice@lifestylesafter50.com (subject line: Entrepreneur Story) or by snail mail to Attn. Janice, News Connection USA, Inc. P.O. Box 638, Seffner, FL 33583. Be sure to include your name, address and phone number.

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FCOA Attention Readers: The articles printed in Lifestyles After 50 do not necessarily reﬂect 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 the February 2013 issue is Jan. 15, 2012. Magazines are out by the 7th of each month. All rights reserved.

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 3

The Best Kept Secret in Mount Dora BY SUSAN BOURRILLION

hile Mount Dora is a charming little town of restaurants and shops, one of its major attractions is hidden behind the town’s main street. The Mount Dora History Museum is on Donnelly Street, on an alley called Royellou (pronounced Roy-el-lou) Lane. Historically it is the first fire station (1923) and the Old City Jail. The fire station was moved to 4th Avenue in 1941, but the city jail remained in use until 1969. Those enjoying the museum first encounter pictures of the full-length Hollywood movie, Honky Tonk Freeway, made in Mount Dora in 1981. The town was painted a bright pink for the movie and if the sun is shining just right, you can still catch a glimpse of pink in the buildings. Tourists see the Fire House Bay with its double door, similar to the one used by the 1923 American LaFrance RAO There CVH Mature 3/28/12 fire engine. areLifestyles.pdf pictures of the

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 4

Donnellys and their Queen Ann mansion. There are also early pictures of the Lakeside Inn built in 1882 and samples of its early 1900s china. The museum has several kitchen appliances to see including a non-electric Mix Master, a sausage stuffer, an early 1900s wringer washing machine and apple peelers. A fine old Hoosier cabinet is there also and brings many stories from guests about the old ones in their families. It is the jail, of course, that appeals to the young viewers and those wishing for a “Kodak Moment” in a jail cell. Of the four cells, three have original heavy red iron doors. When ushering some Cub Scouts 5:24:02 into the PM restored jail cells, one mom in

the group turned to an older sibling of one scout and said, “See, your room is not too small!” (The cells are 4’ x 8’ and hold small beds similar to the racks that were attached to the wall that the prisoners slept on.) Small open windows invite small critters entrance and remind visitors that there was no air conditioning. The fact that there was no air conditioning in the cells gives many people pause along with the true story of one prisoner in the 1920s who escaped by bashing through the concrete block under the half-window in his cell. There is a picture commemorating the event which was painted on the repaired block wall by a local artist.

The museum is funded by public gifts and donations. At present, funds are being raised to restore the Fire House Bay Doors and roof replacement. The Museum is managed by Carolyn Green, a central Florida native and treasurer for the Mount Dora Historical Society. “Helping preserve Mount Dora’s history means a lot to me.” says Green. “There are so many great stories about this area of Central Florida that was still frontier when the West was already being won. People came here to escape cold wet winters, to find fresh land and new business opportunities. Sharing these stories connects me to the past and the visitors we have in the museum. Museum hours are 1 to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Admission is $2 for adults and $1 for students. For more information about the museum or groups, call (352) 383-0006 or email to mountdorahistory@gmail.com.

Around Town W H AT ’ S H A P P E N I N G J A N U A RY 2 0 1 3

aturdays Wine and Chocolate Festival. 1 to 4 p.m. Free admission. Lakeridge Winery, Clermont. Call for details: (352) 394-8627.

– 20 “Six Women With Brain Death or Expiring Minds Want to Know.” Ocala Civic Theatre. (352) 236-2274.

Mel Tillis performance. 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. Orange Blossom Opry, Weirsdale. (352) 821-1201.

“Salute to Vienna: Some Enchanted Evening” concert by Florida Lakes Symphony Orchestra. St. Patrick Catholic Church, Mount Dora. 11 Same program: Family Christian Center, Clermont. $42/ advance, $45/door. (352) 589-1500.

“The Fifth Dimension” featuring Florence La Rue. $31 to $35. Circle Square Cultural Center, Ocala. (352) 854-3670.

through Feb. 10 “25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.” Moonlight Warehouse Theatre, Clermont. (352) 319-1116.

Food Truck-n-Flick Night. 5:30 p.m. Bring lawn chairs. Downtown Leesburg. (352) 365-0053.

“Doors Alive: A Musical Trip! Show.” Recreates original sound of rock band The Doors. 7 p.m. $15 general; $25 VIP with meet and greet. Mount Dora Community Center. Tickets: visitmountdora.com or (352) 735-1191.

Central Florida Lyric Opera Performance. 3 p.m. Williams Aud., Lake Sumter College, Leesburg. $28, $25/seniors. Info: centralflorida lyricopera.org or (877) 211-5346.

“An Evening with Barbra & Frank. Tribute to Streisand and Sinatra.” Tickets: $22 and $27. Savannah Center, The Villages, Lady Lake. (352) 753-3229.

“Simply Sinatra” tribute show. $25/ door. 5 and

7:30 p.m. Church on the Square, The Villages. (352) 753-3229.

Winter Music series

through Feb. 15 “Buddy! The Buddy Holly Story.” Sonnetag Theatre, Mount Dora. (352) 383-4616.

Free Admission JAn. 5th (1:00 pm - 4:00 pm) JAn. 12th (1:00 pm - 4:00 pm) JAn. 19th (1:00 pm - 4:00 pm) JAn. 26th (1:00 pm - 4:00 pm)

Dr. Martin Luther King commemoration and parade. 11 a.m. Downtown Leesburg. (352) 365-3592.

WineFest XXiii

Big Band Memories Live Show. 7 p.m. $20/door. Mount Dora Comm. Building. (352) 735-1191.

$2 donAtion Feb. 15th (10:00 Am - 5:00 pm) Feb. 16th (10:00 Am - 5:00 pm) Feb. 17th (11:00 Am - 5:00 pm)

Health and Wellness Expo. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free. Circle Square Cultural Center, Ocala. (352) 854-3670.

through Feb. 24 Chick Swartz: Cedar Key Artist exhibition. Appleton Museum of Art, Ocala. (352) 291-4455.

A Taste of Eustis. 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. $20. The Eustis Community Center. (352) 357-8555.

and 26 Cagan Crossings Art and Craft Festival. Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free admission. Cagan Crossings, Clermont. (352) 344-0657.

MARION WOODS

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through Feb. 17 Theatre production of “Avenue Q.” Bay Street Players at the State Theatre, Eustis. (352) 357-7777.

The Kingston Trio. 7 p.m. $24 to $28. Circle Square Cultural Center, Ocala. (352) 854-3670.

Jay and the Americans performance. 6 and 8:30 p.m. Tickets: $24 and $29. Savannah Center, The Villages, Lady Lake. (352) 753-3229. Send Around Town news to News Connection USA, Inc., P.O. Box 638, Seffner, FL 33583; fax (813) 651-1989 or email janice@lifestylesafter50.com. News must be received by the 10th of the month prior to event (i.e. January 10 for February event.)

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Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 5

Find Inspiration, Classes, Friends at The Bead Strand

he Bead Strand offers much more than beading supplies. Customers can learn a craft that provides personal enjoyment and relaxation. Nancy, long-time patron of The Bead Strand, commented, “My husband has been ill and taking care of him can often be stressful. Making jewelry takes my mind off of everything and allows me to create beautiful jewelry that gives me a sense of pride and accomplishment.” Donna, currently undergoing chemotherapy, says, “beadweaving has been a type of therapy for me and being able to make handmade Christmas gifts for my family is something I’ve always wanted to do.” The store provides classes for all skill levels in a variety of beading techniques including stringing, wire wrapping, weaving, polymer clay, glass

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 6

fusing, metalwork and more. The class schedule changes monthly with new offerings from experienced and knowledgeable instructors. Customers enjoy the relaxed and friendly environment and just looking around the store provides inspiration on all the types of beaded jewelry that can be created. “We are constantly adding new items to keep up with the latest trends in beading and offer one of the best selections of beads and findings in the area. We are more than just a bead store. Here, our customers can make new friends while sharing their creative ideas and achievements,” says Mari, store owner. The Bead Strand is located just three miles west of I-95 off S.R. 200 in Ocala. Visit thebeadstrand.com for general info or to view the current class schedule.

STIR UP SOME SUPER BOWL FUN W

hen it’s Super Bowl time— or any party, for that matter —you can stir up some fun with easy-to-make appetizers that are sure to please the whole crowd. These four recipes are a breeze to make and all share one simple secret ingredient—Musselman’s Apple Butter. Here are some delicious ideas for turning these dips and sauces into great party appetizers.

Recipe Quick and Easy BBQ Sauce

Makes: 6 to 8 servings

1 cup Musselman’s Apple Butter 1 cup chili sauce

Mix ingredients. Brush on chicken wings or shrimp during the last few minutes of grilling. It is simple to make BBQ pulled pork, as well as the sauce for a crockpot of meatballs or bacon-wrapped smoked sausages.

Apple Butter Mustard Dip

Kickin’ Horseradish Sandwich Spread

Caramel Apple Dip

1 cup Musselman’s Apple Butter 1/2 cup Dijon mustard

1 cup Musselman’s Apple Butter Creamy horseradish sauce depending on spice level (1/4 cup for light, 1/2 cup for mild, 1 cup for hot)

1 cup Musselman’s Apple Butter 1/2 cup caramel sauce

Makes: 6 to 8 servings

Mix ingredients. Delicious with just hard or soft pretzels. Set out a plate of cheese cubes or mini egg rolls for dipping, and you have easy snacking.

Makes: 6 to 8 servings

Mix apple butter with desired amount of horseradish. This tastes great with roast beef, chicken, or pork—try mini sandwich sliders or pinwheel wraps. Another great idea is to use the spread as a dip for chicken tenders, sweet potato fries or even veggie chips.

Makes: 6 to 8 servings

Mix ingredients. Set a dish of this warm dip on a pretty tray and surround it with freshly sliced apples or pears, and simple gingersnap cookies. For a family fun dessert, dip marshmallows and then roll them in chopped nuts. For more ways to stir up some fun at your party, visit www.musselmans.com. (Family Features)

The Ultimate Burger Super Bowl: Fun Facts

Photo by Redsie

urger toppings are like football teams—everybody has their favorites, and they swear by ‘em. You could do it Philly-style with melted cheese, onions and green peppers; Chicagostyle with fresh relish and spicy slaw; or throw some barbeque sauce and fried onions on top, Texas-style. Swiss and mushrooms, bleu cheese and cajun spices, even mac and cheese—burger toppings abound; but the secret to the ultimate burger is a juicy, flavorful patty. This recipe for the ultimate patty comes from Kittencal at Food.com:

Kittencal’s Juicy Hamburger 2 lbs ground beef 1 egg, slightly beaten 1 ounce envelope dry onion soup mix (can use the whole package if desired) 2 tablespoons fresh minced garlic (or use 1 teaspoon garlic powder) 1/4 cup dry breadcrumbs (or crushed soda cracker crumbs, more if needed) (optional) 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper 1 -2 tablespoon Frank’s red hot sauce (or 1-2 teaspoons crushed chili flakes, or can adjust to heat level) (optional) Directions: 1. In a bowl, crumble the ground beef with clean hands. Add in the dry soup mix, egg, garlic, breadcrumbs or crushed soda cracker crumbs, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper and hot sauce (if using).

2. Mix until combined, adding breadcrumbs or cracker crumbs as needed to hold the mixture together (do not overwork the meat or it will be tough). 3. Divide the ground beef into 6 equal patties (or make 8 small patties).

4. Using your large finger or the back of a small spoon, make a shallow dent into the center of each patty (about 1-inch wide).

5. Place the patties onto a large plate or a small cookie sheet; cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 6 – 24 hours to blend flavors. 6. Grill or pan fry the burgers until cooked through (if desired, sprinkle a small amount of seasoned salt on top while cooking the patties). Serve on toasted buns with choice of condiments.

7. For extra juiciness; shape the hamburger into a ball. Press 1 tablespoon cold butter into the middle and seal the meat around the ball, then flatten into patties.

The first Super Bowl was held in Memorial Coliseum in Los Angeles on Jan. 15, 1967. The Green Bay Packers beat the Kansas City Chiefs, 35 – 10. Super Bowl Sunday is the second biggest day of the year for food consumption in the US. Thanksgiving is first. Every year, more than 700,000 footballs are made for official NFL use. 72 of them are set aside for use during the Super Bowl. Which NFL team has played in the most Super Bowls? The Pittsburgh Steelers and Dallas Cowboys have each played in 8 of them. The Steelers have won six of those games (also a Super Bowl record). The Cowboys have a 5 – 3 record. The Super Bowl is the second most watched sporting event in the world. The first is soccer’s Champions League Final. (From internet sources)

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 7

A Few Defining Moments From

he first disco opened in the Whisky A Go-Go night club in Los Angeles.

The first inductees into the Pro Football Hall of Fame were announced. Travel, financial and commercial transactions by U.S. citizens to Cuba were made illegal NASA’s Mercury program, which put men in space, was completed with the June launch of Mercury 9. Bob Dylan released “Blowin’ in the Wind.”

other things. He delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech on the National Mall, putting civil rights at the top of the political agenda. In August, James Meredith became the first black person to graduate from the University of Mississippi.

In September, CBS Evening news began the first half-hour weeknight news broadcasts.

In Britain, the Beatles recorded “Twist and Shout” and “I Want to Hold Your Hand.”

Flight A members, Mercury Program

The “red telephone” was established between the Soviet Union and the U.S. in June.

LSD was taken for the first time in July, opening the way for the drug culture yet to come.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

In August, Martin Luther King led a March on Washington, demanding a law prohibiting racial discrimination in unemployment and a $2 per hour minimum wage for all workers among Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 8

Studebaker ceased production in South Bend.

And finally, the Motor Trend’s Car of the Year choice was the American Motors (AMC) Rambler.

Cost of Living

President John F. Kennedy

of president. It was a difficult time to become president with the mounting troubles in Vietnam where the Viet Cong Guerrillas had killed 80 American Advisers and in the U.S. The continued campaign for civil rights by the black community caused violent reactions from whites including Mississippi, Virginia and Alabama where the black civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. was arrested.

Technology

1963 was the first year for: • touch tone phones • zip codes • lava lamps • tape cassettes • pull tab cans for sodas

• Yearly Inflation Rate: 1.24% • Year End Close Dow Jones Industrial Average: 762 • Average Cost of new house: $12,650. • Average Income per year: $5,807. • Gas per Gallon: 29 cents • Average Cost of a new car: $3,233. • Loaf of bread: 22 cents • Bedroom Air Conditioner: $149.95

Popular Culture This was the year State Mutual Life Insurance invented the Smiley Face that was soon found on anything and everything around the world.

Popular Musicians • Roy Orbison • Buddy Holly • The Drifters • Jim Reeves Popular TV Programs • The Virginian • Lassie • The Andy Griffith Show • The Flintstones • Mister Ed • The Avengers • The Dick Van Dyke Show Popular Films • The Birds • Cleopatra • The Longest Day • Lawrence of Arabia • Mutiny on the Bounty • To Kill a Mockingbird

News The biggest news from 1963 was the assassination of the U.S. President Kennedy on November 22. This thrust Lyndon Johnson into the role

1963

The “Beatles”

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 9

Veterans Corner

U.S. Veteran Charities: Beyond Lip Service SEAL Team 6 Author Discusses Value of Legit Nonprofits

ith the war in Afghanistan set to end in 2014, and the Iraq war having ended two years ago, charities that help veterans and their families may be busier than ever— but without the public awareness generated by an ongoing conflict. Support for the war effort in Afghanistan is on par with the unpopular Vietnam War during the early 1970s, according to a recent Associated Press-GfK poll; only 27 percent of Americans support the effort in Afghanistan. A fundamental difference between then and now, however, is Americans’ nearly unanimous support of U.S. troops, says J. L. Narmi, author of SEAL Team 6, bin Laden and Beyond. “The vitriol expressed toward our Vietnam veterans by many was disgusting, but I think we learned from that injustice, and most Americans think the troops deserve much more support than they’re getting,” says Narmi, who comes from a military family. All proceeds from his book sales will go to support veterans’ charities. “The problem is that funding, whether it’s through government or private charities, doesn’t match the expressed support,” he says. “And I worry that will only get worse as these soldiers move out of the public eye and try to take up peace-time lives.” Narmi cites some good resources for Americans looking for quality charities that support the troops: • The Wounded Warrior Project (woundedwarriorproject.org): With advances in protective gear and life-saving medical technology, fewer troops are coming home in coffins than in previous wars, but more are coming back with lifelong injury. This charity seeks to foster a generation of well-adjusted

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 10

wounded service members, and to raise public awareness about their needs and how fellow military men and women can help each other.

• The Navy SEAL Foundation (navyseal foundation.org): As detailed in Narmi’s novel, SEALs are among the most physically and mentally talented individuals in the world. But they, along with their families, endure enormous stressors, many of which are never discussed due to the nature of their duties. This charity supports these elite warriors and their families. • Charity Navigator (charitynavigator.org): Whether or not you think you know about the legitimacy of a charitable organization, it doesn’t hurt to take a few minutes to verify an organization’s status. This site is widely recognized by investigative reporters to be a reliable resource in reporting a nonprofit’s activity. The above two groups, in which Narmi has donated money, have been verified via Charity Navigator. Still not sure? …Skepticism is understandable. It seems the more we hear or read about charities, the more we learn that we shouldn’t simply take their word for how donations will be spent. Media coverage spotlights those outlier groups that are clearly fraudulent; however, most charitable organizations are absolutely streamlined, with workers donating their time or receiving a minimal wage. It has never been easier to verify a charity’s reputation. “If everyone who said they support the troops gave just a modest amount to help a veteran who has risked his or her life for our freedom, we would come across far fewer tragedies on the news about vet-related joblessness, homelessness and suicide,” he says.

New Books Art f you got “too soon old” without learning to be a great artist, here’s help. The Wrinklies’ Guide to Drawing: New Pursuits for Old Hands by Richard Pomfret is a an easy-to-follow manual to help mature readers exercise their brains and try something new. The book begins with basic drawing techniques and advice on materials and goes on to cover drawing landscapes, animals, cartoons and still life. Other “Wrinklies” easy guide books include The Wrinklies Guide to Gardening, The Wrinklies Guide to Home Computing and The Wrinklies Guide to Keeping Supple.

iPads AARP’s book iPad: Tech to Connect takes the complex little flat-screen iPad and teaches how to tap, swipe and pinch to get places. Then it shows and tells how to download apps and connect with friends before advising on ways to protect and secure the little machine. Large text and clear visuals make the book easy to use. Caregiving Dr. Ruth’s Guide for the Alzheimer’s Caregiver by Dr. Ruth Westheimer is the author’s simple, straightforward message for caregivers: You are not alone. The book includes resources, strategies, tips, tricks and attitudes to create the most

supportive environment possible for both patient and caregiver. She deals with behavior management, home safety, doctor interaction and facilities.

Computers The easiest way to get what you want from your computer is to use The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Using Your Computer—for Seniors. This book is packed with what a beginner needs to know to get started in every aspect of computers. It is written to be understood and is full of practical, easy tips and instructions. Money If you now have time to learn money management, you might like Managing Retirement Wealth, An Expert Guide to Personal Portfolio Management in Good Times and Bad by Julie Jason. The author is a portfolio manager who includes real-life scenarios, rewards, risks and direction for a variety of investments. The book is written to help retirees establish a system to get on course and stay on course with goals.

{ { Book Giveaway!

We’re giving these books away! Email your name, mailing address, phone number and the title of the book you are interested in winning to janice@lifestylesafter50.com (subject: Book Giveaway) or send by snail mail to Attn: Book Giveaway, News Connection USA, Inc., P.O. Box 638, Seffner, FL 33583. We will draw a name for each of the five books on Jan. 22. Winners will be announced in our February issue.

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 11

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Someone Left the Cake Out In the Rain The Rise And Fall Of The Easy-Bake Oven

BY LISA SORG

ome here, kiddos, and sit on grandma’s knee. I’ll tell you about the years when we Toughskinswearing moppets, our shoulders scabbed and oozing from our smallpox shots, not only used phones that were attached to the wall by a cord but also baked cakes in an oven using two measly light bulbs. These kinds of trials are what made our generation what it is today. The Easy-Bake Oven debuted in 1963 in a shade of deep teal unseen in nature. In addition to the oven, the appliance featured “burners” and came with a pint-size rolling pin and small aluminum pans in which to make cakes and cupcakes, pies and pizzas. The cake flavors included artificial white and artificial devil’s food, while the pie filling was All-American artificial apple. Add (real) water to the mix, slide the pan in the oven and prepare to live your dream, embodied in the slogan “Bake your cake and eat it too!” The eating part, yes, well, there was that. The heat of two 100-watt light bulbs was ostensibly sufficient to cause molecules to vibrate and to convert starch to sugar. In 4 to 16 minutes, voila! You had a dessert concoction that tasted of industrializated food systems: treacly, mealy and faintly chemical—and oh, so good. The Easy-Bake Oven was made by Kenner (now Hasbro), the company that also brought you the Spirograph. The appliance was marketed to girls to encourage them to be like their moms: unable to get a credit card in her name, sequestered in the kitchen fixing another drab green bean casserole with Campbell’s mushroom soup and fried onion rings.

There were knock-offs, of course: the Junior Chef Magic-Cool Oven, which resembled an incinerator; and the Suzy Homemaker, which one-upped the Easy-Bake by not only featuring an oven and stove, but also nearly a full kitchen, including a sink and dishwasher, perfect for scrubbing cake pans and rinsing glasses. By the mid-1970s, the oven’s color scheme had taken on the drab tones of the Nixon/Ford era: burnt umber and avocado. The 1983 model had progressed to the point that the oven needed only one 100-watt bulb. In the last 20 years, the mystique of the Easy-Bake Oven has declined. Blame the drive-thru. Blame the avalanche of snacks in school vending machines, which give kids immediate access to their sugar fixes. Me? I blame the microwave. EasyBake had a microwave model, but why would a third-grader accept a substitute when she already knows how to use the real microwave to make dinner? Here’s the real bummer: The 21stcentury version, the Easy-Bake Ultimate Oven, comes with games, videos and downloads, but it requires no light bulbs. That’s right, no light bulbs. What’s an Easy-Bake Oven without light bulbs? Well, since it has a heating element similar to a conventional oven, it’s really just a miniature oven. “Why wouldn’t I just use a real oven?” reads one of the online Easy-Bake Ultimate Oven FAQs. And the answer? “The Easy-Bake brand is a fashionable fun food brand that inspires ‘tween girls to bake, share and show their creativity and expertise through an immersive brand experience.” Now I get it. You can fake your cake and eat it too.

Dealer Goofs— The Road to Riches

MOMENTS LIKE THESE ARE PRECIOUS. DON’T LET THEM FADE AWAY.

so there is a 69 percent chance that the BY MARK PILARSKI Age-related macular degeneration dealer (AMD)does not have a blackjack. Add to earleading Mark: Icause was recently play-in peoplethat is the of blindness 55you are sitting on one ten-point card, blackjack one of Detroit’s anding older. It is aatchronic disease affecting and with a quick scan of the table, you will probably note additioncasinos, and 10 I was dealtAmericans, a blackjack more than million and early with the dealer showing an ace. I detection is key to saving your sight. al ten-point cards; consequently, the chances now become even greater than opted not to take “even money” as Protect your vision from fading away. 69 percent that the dealer doesn’t posI had always thought you shouldn’t Callinsurance. the Foundation sess one. Therefore, Suzanne, based on take After Fighting checkingBlindness her today for a free info packet about the 3 to 2 payoff that you receive for a hole card and turning over a face preventing and managing AMD. card for a dealer blackjack, the dealer blackjack, even if you possess a snapper, you will make more money over told me I was wrong, that it was not the long run by never taking insurance the same as insurance, that it was or even money. Suzanne 1, Dealer 0. free money. Was the dealer correct? A Cure Is In Sight As to your second question, when Also, I recently had another situyour dealer’s handicraft at dealing cards 800-610-4558 ation and wonder if what I did was falters, the dealer is not the one who correct. Playing blackjack again, FightBlindness.org settles any squabble. All authoritative the dealer inadvertently pulled two moves are made by a pit boss. Now, cards and dealt them both to the first switching hats and speaking as a former player. She called over the pit boss pit boss, my decision would have who proceeded to give the top (first) duplicated the one you received. That card to the first player, burned the is not to say that different pit bosses second card and then had the dealer continue dealing the rest of the hands, couldn’t render contrary conclusions. All the same, giving everyone at the including her own. The pit boss then table the opportunity to withdraw their gave everyone at the table the option wagers was something I always did. of playing their hand or pulling back Further, on your second question, their bet and folding their hand. The an 18 against a face card will NOT dealer showed a face card. Everyone make you a long-term winner at at the table, except me, pulled back. blackjack; so, you actually should I had a hard 18. I figured that was have pulled your bet. Even a 19 will a decent hand and gambled I’d lose more often than win when the have a chance to win. I didn’t. What dealer’s upcard is a 10 or an ace. What should I have done? —Suzanne R. constitutes a strong hand are those 20’s, which you didn’t get. With a 10-10 against any dealer’s upcard, this is where you make money over the long run. Approximately, 70 percent of your overall winnings at blackjack result from these two hands: 10-10 and A-10. Next time a pit bull playing gambling referee corrects a dealer gaff and gives you When I pitched cards, it amazed this same opportunity, yank your me how many players jumped on the bet. The House 1, Suzanne 0. opportunity of taking even money, or insurance, when I showed an ace. Gambling Wisdom of the Week: Except for counting cards, making “Retirement is like a long vacation either of these wagers is fiscally not a in Las Vegas. The goal is to enjoy sound move, even if, as in your case, it the fullest, but not so fully that being dealt a blackjack. The reason being, Suzanne, ten-point cards (10, J, you run out of money.” —Jonathan Q, K) make up 31 percent of the deck, Clements. (SENIOR WIRE)

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Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 13

8 Ways To Quell The Fire Of Heartburn H

eartburn is a common problem. It’s caused by the backwash of stomach acid into the esophagus, the tube connecting the mouth and stomach. This is formally called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). More than just a minor discomfort, heartburn can significantly reduce quality of life. “Heartburn can cause damage to the esophagus and even increase the risk of cancer if ignored and untreated,” says Dr. William Kormos of Massachusetts General Hospital.

Health These eight steps can help ease heartburn:

1. Eat in a heartburn-smart way. Large meals put pressure on the muscle that normally helps keep stomach contents from backing up into the esophagus. The more you eat, the longer it takes for the stomach to empty, which contributes to reflux.

Try smaller, more frequent meals and don’t wolf down your food. 2. Avoid late-night eating. Having a meal or snack within three hours of lying down to sleep can worsen reflux, causing heartburn. Leave enough time for the stomach to clear out. 3. Don’t exercise right after meals. Give your stomach time to empty; wait a couple of hours. But don’t just lie down either, which will worsen reflux. 4. Sleep on an incline. Raising your torso up a bit with a wedge-shaped cushion may ease nighttime heartburn. Wedges are available from medical supply companies and some home goods stores. Don’t just prop your head and shoulders up with pillows. Doing so can increase pressure on the stomach by curling you up at the waist. 5. Identify and avoid foods associated with heartburn. Common offenders include fatty foods, spicy foods, tomatoes, garlic, milk, coffee, tea, cola, peppermint and chocolate.

Carbonated beverages cause belching, which also causes reflux.

6. Chew sugarless gum after a meal. Chewing gum promotes salivation, which helps neutralize acid, soothes the esophagus and washes acid back down to the stomach. Avoid peppermint gum, which may trigger heartburn more than other flavors. 7. Rule out medication side effects. Ask your doctor or pharmacist whether any of the medications you take might cause pain resembling heartburn or contribute to reflux.

8. Lose weight if you need to. Being overweight puts more pressure on the stomach and pushes stomach contents into the esophagus. Tight fitting clothing and belts that come with weight gain may also be a factor.

When to consider medication: If the lifestyle steps above don’t get heartburn under control, the most

Medicare Answers D

ear Marci, I didn’t sign up for Medicare Part B on time because I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to pay the monthly Part B premium. I have very limited income and was told that I need to sign up for Medicare in order to have my health care services covered. Are there any programs that can help me? —Rebecca

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 14

effective treatment is a type of drug called a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). It works by drastically reducing acid secretion by the stomach. You can get some PPIs over-the-counter—for example, lansoprazole (Prevacid) and omeprazole (Prilosec). Others are available by prescription only. A PPI can get heartburn under control, but many people end up taking one indefinitely. This isn’t ideal since research has linked PPIs to increased susceptibility to bacterial infection and long-term risk of hip fracture, among other potential risks. After a PPI cools your heartburn symptoms, ask your doctor if you can taper it off and then combine good preventive measures with targeted use of other medicines to keep heartburn from returning. H2 blockers are good for this purpose. They include cimetidine (Tagamet), ranitidine (Zantac), famotidine (Pepcid), and nizatidine (Axid). If your symptoms persist, you may need additional testing.

Dear Rebecca, yes, you might qualify for a Medicare Savings Program (MSP), which is an assistance program that helps people with limited income pay for the Medicare Part B premium. While the primary purpose of an MSP is to help pay Medicare premiums and Medicarerelated costs, another benefit of this program is that by enrolling into an MSP, you are automatically enrolling into Part B. MSPs also eliminate any premium penalties you may have for delaying enrollment into Part B. To qualify for an MSP, you must have Medicare Part A and meet

The Healthy Geezer BY FRED CICETTI

. I heard that marijuana helps glaucoma. I’d like to try it, but won’t I get in trouble?

arijuana can help your glaucoma and it could definitely get you in trouble because it’s illegal. Marijuana refers to the parts of the Cannabis sativa plant, which has been used for medicinal purposes for more than 4,800 years. Doctors in ancient China, Greece and Persia used it as a pain reliever and for gastrointestinal disorders and insomnia. Cannabis as a medicine was common throughout most of the world in the 1800s. It was used as the primary pain reliever until the invention of aspirin. The United States, in effect, made prescriptions for Cannabis illegal through the Marijuana Tax Act of 1937. The only opponent to the legislation was the representative of the American Medical Association. Marijuana contains at least 60 chemicals called cannabinoids. THC is the main component responsible for marijuana’s mind-altering effect. Marinol (dronabinol), a prescription drug taken by oral capsule, is a man-made version of THC One of THC’s medical uses is for the treatment of nausea. It can improve mild to moderate nausea caused by cancer chemotherapy and help reduce nausea and weight loss in people with AIDS. Older people, especially those with no marijuana experience, may not tolerate THC’s mind-altering side effects as well as young people. Doctors generally prescribe several kinds of newer anti-nausea drugs with fewer side effects before resorting to Marinol. Glaucoma increases pressure in the eyeball, which can lead to vision loss. Smoking marijuana reduces pressure in the eyes.Your doctor can prescribe other medications to treat glaucoma, but these can lose their effectiveness over time.

Researchers are trying to develop new medications based on cannabis to treat pain. THC may work as well in treating cancer pain as codeine. A recent study found that cannabinoids significantly reduced pain in people with multiple sclerosis, a disease of the nervous system. Though some doctors and patients suggest marijuana has a legitimate use, the federal government disagrees. The law classifies marijuana as one of the “most dangerous drugs that have no recognized medical use.” The penalties for possession of marijuana can range from a small fine to a prison sentence. Along with the legal implications of smoking marijuana are the health problems such as memory impairment, loss of coordination and the potential for withdrawal symptoms and hallucinations. And, inhaling marijuana smoke exposes you to substances that may cause cancer. One study has indicated that the risk of heart attack more than quadruples in the first hour after smoking marijuana. The researchers suggest that a heart attack might be caused by marijuana’s effects on blood pressure, heart rate and the capacity of blood to carry oxygen. Most polls show that about three out of four people approve of medical marijuana. This has led to the introduction of bills in Congress that would eliminate federal controls in states that approve medical marijuana. None of these bills has been voted into law. Marijuana is now available by prescription in many states. However, federal agencies control the power to prescribe. If you would like to read more columns, you can order a copy of “How To Be A Healthy Geezer” at www.healthygeezer.com. All Rights Reserved © 2012 by Fred Cicetti. Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 15

Five Ways to Help Avoid Caregiver Burnout E

lder Care Expert A. Michael Bloom offers these practical coping strategies for the 60 million American family caregivers to recharge their energy while avoiding burnout, and he notes that “the life you save may be your own.”

1. Put chocolate in your pill box. Caregivers rarely provide themselves with rewards that release stress. Determine your special “chocolate” (which is a metaphor for something that provides ultimate joy) and dose yourself regularly so you create enduring satisfaction and success during the long journey of care.

Farmers Markets

S M T T

un. Downtown Clermont Farmers Mkt. (352) 394-8618.

on. Sumter County Farmers Mkt and Flea Mkt. Webster. (352) 793-2021. ues. Lady Lake Farmers Mkt. (352) 753-6029.

hurs. Lake County Farmers Mkt, Fairgrounds, Eustis. (352) 357-9692.

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 16

2. Get those stressful thoughts out of your head and say YES to requests for support. Set a 5 – 10 minute time block at least once per week to deal with your stress. Make a list of all the issues rolling through your mind. Put

3. Schedule regular breaks. Seek assistance from friends, relatives or volunteers so you take a class, go to the gym, go on a date with your partner or enjoy other fun recreational activities.

4. Use High Tech to Deliver High Touch. Free, easy-to-navigate systems to build support networks can be found at seniorcaresociety.com. Through these online communities, family caregivers can post vital medical and support information, use an online calendar to schedule volunteer assistance for activities/appointments and send updates with just the click of a button.

5. Low Tech Packs a Punch, Too. Old school options such as calendars, post-it-notes and dry erase boards are just as effective. Create an information binder for family, friends and volunteers so vital medical and support needs are at their fingertips. For caregivers who are serious about exploring ways to recharge your caregiving energy now, learn more or take a Free Caregiving Burnout Risk Assessment by visiting bloomforcoach.com.

Any business that relates to active adults 50 plus will benefit from advertising in

ri. Cagan Crossings Farmers Mkt. 4 to 7 p.m. Clermont. (352) 243-9005. at. Downtown Farmers Mkt. Downtown Ocala. (352) 368-1612. at. Leesburg Saturday Morning Mkt. Downtown. (352) 365-0053.

the items on paper and make plans to address them. When a friend or family member asks how they can help, be prepared with this list of tasks that others can perform to lighten your load.

Like Us on Facebook or Follow Us on Twitter

Home Solicitation Sales: Who’s That Knocking On Your Door? H ome solicitations account for a large number of consumer complaints each year. A home solicitation is any sale, lease or rental of a consumer good or service with a purchase price that exceeds $25, including all interest, service charges, finance charges, postage, freight, insurance and handling charges, and the sale is consummated in a place other than at the seller’s fixed establishment or business location. If a home solicitor knocks on the door and cannot show a county-issued permit, ask them to leave or call your local law enforcement agency.

Retirement Living What Consumers Should Know About Home Solicitations • It is unlawful for any person to conduct a home solicitation sale in the state of Florida without a valid home solicitation sale permit issued by the Clerk of the Circuit Court.

• Don’t be intimidated by high pressure sales tactics.

• Home solicitors are required to carry and display their permit and certificate.

• Always demand a copy of any sales agreement.

• This permit is very important because it requires the salesman to file a sworn application providing all of their personal information, a photograph and a complete set of fingerprints.

• The seller is required to refund the buyer any payments made within 10 days after the sale has been cancelled and has approximately 40 days in which to retrieve any goods delivered to the buyer.

• The Clerk forwards this information to the Sheriff and Florida Department of Law Enforcement for criminal background checks.

• Consumers should “verify before they buy.” Ask the solicitor to see the permit. • Consumers can verify the home solicitor has a permit by contacting the Clerk of the Circuit Court. •All home solicitation sales must have a written sales agreement and three-day cancellation provision. • This sales agreement must contain the date of the transaction, the buyer’s signature, and the BUYERS RIGHT TO CANCEL.

How Consumers Can Cancel A Home Solicitation Agreement

• Consumers have until midnight of the third business day after signing the contract to cancel the agreement.

• Buyers should provide the seller with a written notice of cancellation in person, by telegram or by certified mail with a return receipt; the cancellation is effective the date of the postmark.

• The buyer must take reasonable care of the goods in their possession before cancellation or revocation of the agreement.

Any home solicitor who violates the terms and conditions of Florida’s home solicitation law can face criminal charges punishable as a first degree misdemeanor, with a second conviction resulting in a third degree felony.

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 17

The EASY BOARDING Bicycle by Biria

• Unisex step-through design engineered in Germany • Cross bar is only six inches from the ground, so you can easily step-through the bicycle • Upright seating position for less back pain and clear view of the road • Relaxed arm position for more control

For more dealers contact Biria USA:

Tel: 201-461-1980 • www.biria.com

Sun Cycle Center 100 W. Burleigh Blvd. (Hwy. 441) Tavares, FL 32778

352-343-4181 Santos Trailhead Bicycle Shop 8900 S. US Highway 441 Ocala, FL 34480

352-307-2453

Hidden Benefits of Exercise Feel great! P

hysically, when you find you can no longer climb stairs or walk easily from the car to the mall door, it’s time to look to exercise. Otherwise, “It’s possible to find yourself getting into a downward spiral of less and less physical activity,” writes Dr. Miriam Stoppard in her book Defying Age. The benefits of exercise go far beyond how your clothes fit and keeping major diseases like high blood pressure and heart disease at bay. These hidden benefits of exercise go a long way toward keeping your body, mind and spirit younger longer. With regular physical exercise, you will…

Look good! Exercise produces

younger looking, more blemish-free skin: “The increase in circulation and perspiration that occurs with exercise delivers more nutrients to your skin while allowing impurities and waste to be removed,” says Dr. Eudene Harry, author of Live Younger in 8 Simple Steps. “The result? A healthier complexion!”

Physical activity releases endorphins, the brain chemicals that boost your mood and make you feel happy. Exercise has also been shown to increase neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which give the body a natural high and promote better sleep. Any type of physical activity increases the rate at which antibodies flow through the blood stream, resulting in better immunity against sickness.

Think clearly! Scientists believe that exercise is good for the brain by enhancing the heart’s function, which means there’s a richer supply of blood for your memory and mental function.

Dr. Harry includes the usual caveat for exercising: Talk to your doctor and do not overdo exercising or you won’t see all of these benefits. And research shows that asking a friend to join you in an exercise program increases socialization, a key factor in overall wellbeing and feelings of optimism.

Skin Cancer—The Most Common of All Cancers S

ome skin cancers can be deadly. The good news is that most skin cancers can be cured very easily if detected early. Most skin cancers have no symptoms; they can lay silent for years without a sign. The most important thing to do is to have regular skin exams with your dermatologist as well as self skin exams at home. About Mohs Surgery Mohs surgery was created by Dr. Frederic E. Mohs. Originally developed in the 1930s, Mohs surgery is microscopically controlled surgery used to treat common types of skin cancer. During the surgery, after each removal of tissue, while the patient waits, the surgeon examines the tissue specimen for skin cancer cells, and that examination informs the surgeon where to remove tissue next. Mohs surgery allows for the removal of skin cancer with very narrow Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 18

surgical margin and a high cure rate. Because the Mohs procedure is micrographically controlled, it provides precise removal of the cancerous tissue, while healthy tissue is spared. Dr. Johnny Gurgen graduated with honors from Kean University in New Jersey before getting a medical degree from Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. He has won numerous research awards, has been published in multiple worldrenowned dermatology journals and regularly holds lectures and volunteers his services in the community. Leesburg Dermatology serves all of Lake county including the Villages, Florida offering a full spectrum of Dermatologic care, Mohs Surgery in addition to skin care. Our board-certified physicians are dedicated to patient care and scientific innovation. To learn more about Dr. Gurgen and his colleagues, please visit Leesburgdermatologyandmohssurgery.com or call: (352) 435-7695.

Work Longer—But How? And Where? BY EVELYN MACKEY

loridians shopping at their neighborhood Publix grocery store are aware of the diversity of ages in the employees. “Not many folks can say that they have four different generations working with and for them,” says Shannon Patten, Media & Community Relations Manager at Publix headquarters in Lakeland. “We hire associates as young as 14 years of age and our eldest, active associate is 96 years young.” She continues, “We find that mature workers come to Publix looking for a second career at a place where they can interact and give back to their communities. Our associates, regardless of age, recognize our family-oriented values and find our track record appealing—in our 82 year history, we’ve never had a lay-off.”

That is not true in many companies today, even though 75 percent of Americans 50 and older expect to work well into the traditional period of retirement—many because they must, and others by choice. Not every company is able to adapt its workplace and job descriptions to accommodate older workers like Publix can. Frank McVay, a registered nurse with WellStar Health Systems in Marrietta, Georgia, thought he would work into his seventies. Nursing, his second career, was his dream. Injured on the job four years ago, Frank called it quits last year when 12-hour shifts and lifting and moving heavy patients became too much. “I just couldn’t keep up with the demands of the job,” he says. He was 58 years old. His story proves nothing is easy. Despite expectations, people continue to retire early—at age 64 for men; 62 for women. For occupations involving work that is physically demanding and mentally taxing, it’s

even earlier. Most nurses, for example, retire at age 55, fully 40 percent of them for health reasons. Karen Mathews, the Director of Work Life Services for WellStar’s 12,000 employees, says she sees too many Franks: “Some of our best people are aging out of the jobs we rely on for quality service.” WellStar’s nurses average 42 years of age, and that’s a big group heading into retirement at the same time that an aging population will increase demand for health services. According to Spiva, the company estimates that replacing an experienced nurse costs between $75,000 and $100,000. “So yes,” she says, “we’d like to hang on to the older worker.” What companies do Harley-Davidson has a gym at its Menomonee Falls, Wis., factory where workers get exercise routines tailored to their jobs. The company also has trainers ready to ice down inflammations between shifts at one of its engine plants.

To avoid the early retirement of key workers, some employers have redesigned work areas to minimize kneeling or awkward twisting of muscles and joints. Others have gone even further. Duke Energy Corp. offers a special stretching program for its line technicians (people who make repairs on power lines) before they start a shift. That’s a skill requiring about eight years of training. And right now, the average age of line technicians at Duke Energy is 50 to 55. Shannon Patton of Publix cites camaraderie, stability and great benefits for having over 25 percent of their workforce composed of associates 50 and over (of 153,500 associates).

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 19

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Information 813-653-1988 or 1-888-670-0040 • www.lifestylesafter50fl.com • Directions: 813-621-7821 or 800-345 FAIR Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 20

Celebrate at the 8th Annual Lifestyles After 50 Fun Fest! T

he 8th annual Lifestyles After 50 Fun Fest! will be held in the Special Events building, (Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. Entrance) at the Florida State Fairgrounds, Tampa, on Wednesday, January 23 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This FREE event features over 85 exhibitors with information on health, wellness, lifestyles, travel and more. A friendly lunch will be available for $5 along with goodies from our friends at Costco and Perkins and free coffee until 1 p.m.

Fabulous! Entertainment will fill the stage from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and include Richie Merritt of The Marcels (“Blue

Moon”), Russell Cortese as “Elvis,” William “Duece” Hulett “Best in Country” music, as well as Fritzy the “One Man Circus” and much more. This year’s special treat will be singing sensations the Knockouts, performing all your favorites from the ‘50s and ‘60s.

Prizes! Win prizes in free bingo games through out the day. Get your own free caricature drawn by artist, Art Pressman. Check out the Fun Sports Center. Take your chance on a holein-one and win a prize. Plus, the all new Prize-A-Palooza offers chances to win $100 throughout the day. The Grand Prize will be a

2-night Stay at the Beau Rivage Resort in Biloxi including round trip airline tickets for two!

warm-up and walk begin at 9:15 a.m. in front of the special events building.

Free Health Screenings Tampa General Hospital will provide total cholesterol and diabetes testing, plus body fat composition and blood pressure. Other screenings will include bone density, hearing and important health information.

Call (813) 653-1988 or 1-888670-0040 for registration forms, or sign up on the day of the walk at 8:45 a.m. There is a minimum donation of $3 for local charities. Walkers will enjoy free continental breakfast, a walk certificate and a T-shirt to the first 100 to register.

Join The Fun Walk The Fun Walk will be sponsored by Aetna, with a 15 minute warm-up led by Silver & Fit on Wednesday morning, Jan. 23. Registration is at 8:45 a.m.;

Admission is FREE. Parking is only $3. For directions, call (813) 621-7821 For more information, please call (813) 653-1988 or visit online at www.lifestylesafter50fl.com.

STATE CERTIFIED LICENSE #CCC1327406 • CBC 1259006

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 21

Winter In Wonderland– O

Great Vacation Ideas

ptions abound for taking exciting winter vacations, whether to mild or snowy climates. Here’s a roundup of ideas to take advantage of.

Yellowstone on Skis for five days of cross-country ski trails (from $1,995) Winter Wolf Discovery (from $705) Winter in Wonderland park exploration (from $1,385)

Getaway Packages and Adventure Packages have different options and prices. Info at 1-307-344-7311 or 866-439-7375 or on their website at YellowstoneNationalParkLodges.com.

Yellowstone “Lodging & Learning” The Yellowstone Association Institute (YAI) offers five “Lodging and Learning” sessions in the winter. Sponsored in part by the Yellowstone National Park Lodges and Xanterra Parks & Resorts (the managing company of park lodging, restaurants and activities), vacation packages offer accommodations in either Old Faithful Snow Lodge or Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel. Rick Hoeninghausen, a director for the program, says, “Our wildlife viewing, cross-country skiing and geology all stand alone as worldclass, but combined they create an unparalleled experience.” Each program includes accommodations, some meals and a “Snow Card” good for 10 percent off meals, in-park transportation, tours, ski shop services and most retail items. Some Lodging & Learning package components vary based on location. Choose from the following:

Old Faithful Winter Expedition (from $1,075/per person/double) Winter Wildlife Expedition for the wildlife observers (from $665) Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 22

The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, Alberta, Canada

Dragon (“Gum Lung”) It takes a team of over 100 men and women from the martial arts group White Crane to carry this dragon throughout the streets of San Francisco. For info, go to chineseparade.com and make your reservations today!

If you want winter with everything taken care of in grand style, book a winter escape to The Fairmont Banff Springs with genuine Rocky Mountain adventure. Spend your day snowshoeing on top of the world in magnificent Banff National Park or dogsledding in the wilderness of the Canadian Rockies. Then escape to the ultimate in comfort and relaxation at The Fairmont Banff Springs resort.

Travel

Chinese New Year Parade One of the top 10 parades in the world, this year over 100 units will participate in the Chinese New Year Parade in San Francisco on February 23, 2013. A San Francisco tradition since just after the Gold Rush, the parade continues to delight and entertain the many people who come to watch it on the street (or buy bleacher seats on the parade route). Now sponsored by Southwest Airlines, it is one of the few remaining night illuminated parades in the country. Nowhere in the world will you see a lunar new year parade with more gorgeous floats, elaborate costumes, ferocious lions, exploding firecrackers, and of course the newly crowned Miss Chinatown U.S.A. and her court. One entry loved by everyone is the spectacular 268-foot-long Golden

Luxury in the Canadian Rockies

Rodeo San Antonio Dig out the cowboy hat, shine the belt buckle and put on those boots that were made for walkin’ as you head for the mild weather in San Antonio and the annual Stock Show and Rodeo Feb. 7 through 24. You’ll find a roster including 21 rodeo performances, star-studded entertainment as well as a Cowboy Golf Classic, a Texas BBQ Cookoff, and the Go Rodeo Ball. All of the Rodeo staples are included: Grand Entry, Saddle Bronc Riding, Tie-Down Roping, Barrel Racing, Bullriding, Calf Scramble, Steer Wrestling and Mutton Bustin’. Get all the details and order event tickets online at sarodeo.com.

Originally built in 1888 and modelled after a Scottish castle, the hotel has constructed its own upscale version of a mineral pool infused with healing salts from thermal waters in Europe. There’s also an outdoor heated pool and jacuzzi. The hotel offers choices from cozy rooms tucked away in quiet corners of the castle all the way to spacious suites with panoramic mountain views. The Fairmont Banff Springs hotel’s Willow Stream Spa is considered the most deluxe spa in the Canadian Rockies. The spa can be a place to spend your days in indoor luxury relaxation or combined with days outside in vigorous activities. No hurry! Winter lasts several more months in Banff. See package prices at fairmont.com/ banff-springs.

Can Seniors Be Safe Drivers? I t’s an ongoing question—can seniors be safe drivers? The answer varies from one person to the next. Here are 8 tips that could save your life: For most Americans, driving is such a regular part of everyday life that we don’t think twice about slipping behind the wheel. Years in the driver’s seat give us a lot of valuable experience, but there’s a downside, too: As we age, our risk of getting in car accidents goes up. Road safety analysts predict that by 2030 when the last of the baby boomers has turned 65, seniors will be responsible for 25 percent of fatal car crashes. Here’s what you can do to stay safe: Listen to your body. Aches and pains can impair your driving ability, but sometimes you can mitigate them with simple adjustments. Do your hands ache from gripping the steering wheel? Try a padded steering wheeel cover. Does you back hurt during longer trips? Get an orthopedic seat cushion. Test your eyes and ears. Today, 6.5 million Americans over age 65 suffer from severe vision loss, according to the CDC. Any changes to vision and hearing can make driving dangerous. Visit your doctor for regular check-ups to make sure your eyes and ears are in tip-top shape. Consider a new car. Many older adults find that a vehicle with large mirrors and dashboard gauges, and that is easy to get in and out of, makes driving a lot more comfortable. Check out carfit.com, a service offered by AAA that tests your vehicle to find out if it’s ideal for you. Stay physically active. Regular exercise can help keep your body performing well behind the wheel. Try yoga to improve your flexibility and sterengthen your core for comfortable long drives and light weight lifting to keep your arms from getting tired.

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Name: Address: City: Phone: Drive only in good weather. 17 percent of car crash fatalities occur during bad weather. Stay off the road when the weather is inclement, and you’ll lower your chances of getting in a crash. Limit distractions. AAA estimates that 25 to 30 percent of all accidents are caused by a distracted driver. To keep from being one of them, get settled before you press the gas pedal, choose your radio station and adjust your mirrors and seat. If you’re using directions, make sure you’ve printed out and reviewed them beforehand, or if you have a GPS, enter your destination before you start driving. Put your cell phone in the back seat to keep yourself from answering calls or texts. Know your medications. Some medications can cause drowsiness, which can lead to accidents. Always talk to your doctor or pharmacist about possible side effects. If you’re not supposed to operate a vehicle while taking your medications, don’t. Take a refresher course. If you had to take a highschool biology test now, how well would you do? It’s been that long since you’ve learned the rules of the road, so consider updating your driving skills in a local or online class. Some insurance companies will even lower their premiums if you do. (See the AAA website to find a class.) Info from Griswold Home care.

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Win a $25 Gift Certificate to Home Depot! When you complete this form and mail it back, your name will be entered to win a $25 gift certficate to Home Depot. (Drawing held the 20th of each month.)

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P Sandra Caldwell — Congratulations! P Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 23

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isney has been busy over the past several years, cooking up magical new ways to experience the parks. The latest addition has been to the Magic Kingdom, which recently held a grand opening for the New Fantasyland. The renovation walls have come down to reveal an expansion and reimagining of the iconic Fantasyland that includes new characters, stories, rides and restaurants. “Walt Disney once promised that Disneyland, and by extension all of our parks, would never be complete as long as there is imagination left in the world,” said Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Tom Staggs. “New Fantasyland is a spectacular addition to the Magic Kingdom that delivers on Walt’s promise. We’re thrilled to take guests beyond the walls of Cinderella Castle to discover new worlds featuring iconic Disney characters and stories in ways that are more imaginative, more interactive and more immersive than ever before.” Visitors can travel under the sea with Ariel on the Little Mermaid ride or fly with Dumbo in an expanded version of the original favorite. The Barnstormer Featuring the Great Goofini coaster takes miniature thrill-seekers

on a ride over the big top, while the Princess Fairytale Hall gives guests a chance to meet and greet their favorite princesses. Guests can also take in a circus performance with Mickey and the gang at Pete’s Silly Sideshow. Beauty and the Beast’s castle is a dramatic new addition to the skyline. Visitors can dine inside at the Be Our Guest Restaurant, enjoy “LeFou’s Brew” at Gaston’s Tavern or take part in the story themselves at Enchanted Tales with Belle.

Stay and Play The Art of Animation, Disney’s newest resort, invites guests to stay in the worlds of “Finding Nemo,” “The Lion King,” “The Little Mermaid” and “Cars” after a day at the theme parks. Specially-themed rooms, family suites and hotel exteriors show the process of building an animated world from sketch, ink and color to 3D. Favorite characters come to life in play areas and pools, and the hotel also offers an arcade, pool bar, gift shop, snack bar and food court, as well as free transportation to the theme parks. This three-story value resort offers family suites (two bathrooms, kitchenette and three sleeping areas) from $248/ night, and standard rooms from $94. To learn more about Walt Disney World parks and resorts, to purchase tickets or make a room or dining reservation, call (407) 934-7639.

Steamboats and Stills

ear Michael C. Mason talk about his family’s heritage on the Ocklawaha River as steamboat captains. The Marion County Museum of History and Archaeology will host a free presentation Sunday, January

20 at Green Clover hall, 307 SE. 26th Terrace, Ocala (next door to the museum). Mr. Mason will be talking about his book, which is Ocklawaha River Steamboats, Turpentine Stills and More” at 2 p.m. Information at (352) 236-2790.

Tues. & Wed. JanuaRY 29 & 30, 2013 • 9:00 aM To 4:30 PM The LakeLand CenTeR - 701 W. LiMe sT., LakeLand, FL 33815 inFo: 1-800-265- 3200 Brought to you by:

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 25 2013EX ad senior connection.indd 1

12/18/2012 10:31:42 AM

If You’re So Smart, Prove It!

Last Month’s Answers

December Sudoku

Back & Forth

Win Great Prizes!

New winner selected each month

Good Luck!

Jan. 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 Jan. 21 will win. Send your answers along with your name, address and telephone number to: NEWS CONNECTION USA, INC. P.O. BOX 638, SEFFNER, FL 33583

WIN! WIN! WIN! GREAT PRIZES!

SUDOKU MUST BE RECEIVED BY JAN. 21, 2013

Word Search January

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?

Determine the pair of words associated with each pair of clues. One word in each pair is the other one spelled backwards. (Answers are upside down at the bottom.) Example: brief sleep, used on a stove Answer: nap, pan 1. big swallow, a stopper 2. firearms, tight 3. mouth excretion, pointed ends 4. cooking container, child’s toy 5. smack, friends 6. foot movements, home animals 7. pierce, cave dwellers 8. roadside barrier, fibber 9. clothing, boast 10. strong taste, insect 1. gulp, plug 2. guns, snug 3. spit, tips 4. pot, top 5. slap, pals 6. step, pets 7. stab, bats 8. rail, liar 9. garb, brag 10. tang, gnat

Sidney Bobb is last month’s winner! Congratulations!

Check Us Out Online! Lifestyles After 50 Is On

and Visit www.twitter.com/ MaturLifeStyles or click the Facebook icon on lifestylesafter50fl.com for the latest news, contests and fun events in your area. Share your comments with us!

Word Search Answers From

December

Send your answers along with your name, address and telephone number to: NEWS CONNECTION USA, INC. P.O. BOX 638, SEFFNER, FL 33583

The first correct answers selected from the drawing on January 21 will win.

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 26

MYSTERY PRIZE!

WIN! WIN! WIN! GREAT PRIZES!

MYSTERY PRIZE!

(Puzzles must be received by Jan. 21, 2013.)

Carol Mason is last month’s winner! Congratulations!

From The American Contract Bridge League

BY BRIAN GUNNELL

erhaps East should have tried 5♦ over 4♠; that would be a cheap sacrifice if 4♠ is making. Instead, she guesses to defend and must find a nice defensive play if she is to justify her shyness in the bidding. You are that shy East, so try looking at only the N-E hands. West leads the ♦K, won by Declarer’s Ace. A Diamond is ruffed in Dummy, followed by a Spade to Declarer’s Ace. Then a Club to Dummy’s Jack and your Queen. What next? At this point, you cannot play a Club or a Diamond without blowing a trick, so you must shift to a Heart. Which Heart? It seems routine to play a low Heart, but let’s stop and think.

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We’ve Got You Surrounded

If Declarer has the ♥K it won’t matter what you do, so let’s assume that West has the King. If West has the ♥J to go along with that King, then you can shift to any old Heart; again, it won’t matter. So the case to worry about is the one you see looking at all four hands. Look what happens if you shift to a low Heart. Dummy plays low, West must play the King, losing to the Ace. That’s only one Heart loser for Declarer. The required shift is the Heart Ten! Your Ten and Eight have Dummy’s Nine “surrounded” and that’s what makes the surprising shift to the Ten the winning play. The Ten is covered by the Jack, King and Ace, after which East’s Q8 sits over Dummy’s 92, providing two Heart tricks for the defense. Surrounding plays don’t happen every day, and are easy to miss in the heat of battle. But now that you are an expert on the subject you will no doubt spot this one right away:

East’s J9 surrounds Dummy’s Ten and it is a shift to the Jack which is the winning play, picking up the whole suit. Visit acbl.org for more about the fascinating game of bridge or email marketing@acbl.org. To find a bridge club in Florida, go to district9acbl. org/D9Clubsmap.htm. Bridge article provided courtesy of St. Petersburg Bridge Club: www.stpetebridge.org.

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f there is one thing people like to argue about… it’s television. Even if they can agree what to watch, most people disagree about the volume. That’s because most people require different volume levels, in order to understand and enjoy their favorite shows and movies. What’s more, if one of them is doing something else, like reading or sleeping– the last thing they want to hear is a blaring television. When forced to compromise and listen to TV at the same volume– everyone loses. Now, thanks to innovative digital audio technology, anyone can listen to the TV at the volume they desire without disturbing others. Best of all… the audio is so spectacular you’ll want to use it all the time. Here are a few reasons why the PTLS is the best thing to happen to television since the remote. High Definition Audio. TV video technology has improved dramatically in the past few years, but the audio quality has remained relatively unchanged. Unlike other comparable systems, PTLS provides performance quality stereo sound (up to 120dB)– putting you in the acoustic sweet spot of the room– no matter where you are sitting. Fully Customizable. The Adjustable Digital Tone control enhances dialogue clarity and intelligibility to suit your hearing. You’ll hear everything from stage whispers to lifelike sound effects. Lightweight and comfortable. This system is designed to rest on your shoulders with small, powerful earbuds

that bring the sound directly to your ears. The hi-fidelity passive noise isolation speakers stay gently in your ears without creating pressure or discomfort. Easy to set-up and use. This plug and play system comes with everything you need and the powerful transmitter covers a room up to 35 by 35 feet. It features rechargeable batteries that give you up to 24 hours of listening from a full charge. Exclusive home trial. Why spend time arguing with your loved ones when you could be enjoying your favorite TV shows and movies together again. The PTLS comes with firstSTREET’s exclusive home trial, so if you are not completely satisfied with it for any reason you can simply return it within 30 days for a full refund of the product purchase price. Call today.

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Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 27

Seniors Getting Together Attention SGTers!

of gentleman 65 – 80 of average build and health, who enjoys a comfortable Screen respondents carefully. Always home life. Must be honest an caring meet in public places and have your own and enjoy a clean social lifestyle. Send transportation. Don’t divulge your home habits, ideals and interests. Lady Lake. address. Be sure to provide a way for your 4213 WOMAN SEEKING MEN SOH, P, LTR, correspondent to respond to you – phone FF, W, HWP, R, family oriented, reader, world number, e-mail address or Post Office Box events, yard sales, campfire with good address. Contact the authorities if you feel conversations, plants, movies, country threatened or harassed by an individual. Be patient and careful – a good relationship and music, true Sag, will answer all inquiries. your personal safety are worth the wait! 4215 WOMAN SEEKS MEN I am S, D, W, F, age 58 years old, seeking SW male age 50s up to late 60s. I like tall men. Seeking a WOMEN SEEKING MEN loving, caring, faithful Christain W man. My 4119 SEEKING CHRISTIAN GENTLEhobbies are watching TV. I love to bake. I MAN Former airline stewardess and mod- like to get flowers on first date. I’m looking el, 5’4”, 104 lbs., widow, slender, white for my Christian single W soulmate. Please with Ph.D. in healthcare. Fulbright scholar, write me and send photo of yourself and eats healthy and exercises. Likes sports phone number so I can contact you. I will and animals. Loves the Lord. Florida. send a photo of me and my phone number. 4206 SWF STILL SEARCHING for that special someone (SWM) to light up MEN SEEKING WOMEN my life. No frills hometown gal seeks down-to-earth guy for fun, friendship 4199 SWM XMAS WISH SWF Who is and whatever comes next. Ocala. alone, I am SWM Nich, normal, decent, 4208 ATTRACTIVE WF FROM may not be the hero you seek but could LADY LAKE seeks companionship be your Santa you need for companion-

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Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 28

ship, fun, adventure, excitement with one special package just for you. 4209 LET’S GET ACQUAINTED SWM, 5’11”, 170 lbs., nice looking, easygoing, a loving, caring person, NS, ND, NDrg. Looking for miss right, financially secure, 50 to 60, HWP for LTR, FF, send phone number and recent photo would be nice.. 4211 GOOD, CARING, HARDWORKING SWM, 49, SOH, SM, SD, seeking friendship first leading to eventual LTR. I’m 5’8”, 180 lbs., sandy colored hair, average body type. Send email including your profile.

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, SOHSense Of Humor, SM-Smokes, S-Light Smoker, NS-Non 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.

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 number 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: News Connection USA, Inc. Seniors Getting Together 1602 S. Parsons Ave.,Seffner, FL. 33584 TO PLACE AN AD

Send your ad, stating what category you would like it placed in, your edition(s), along with a $6 fee for 30 words (25¢ for each additional word, abbreviations not charged) to the News Connection USA, Inc. address listed above. Ads received by the 15th of the month will appear in the following issue. No more than three ads will be accepted each month per person. The editor reserves the right to edit any ads for space or content. In order to protect our readers’ privacy, we will not include phone numbers, e-mail or home addresses in the ad copy. City or area included at no charge.

Florida Birding Trips

heck out the birds this month: Wed., Jan. 23, 8 a.m. Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge (west of Daytona Beach). Birding trips take place on the fourth Wednesday of every month through April. Meet at the parking lot closest to the ponds.

Spacecoast Birding and Wildlife Festival Wed., Jan. 23, to Mon, Jan. 28 at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, Fla. The 16th annual event is the largest birding and wildlife festival in the United States. The festival includes field trips to Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.

Creativity Equals Longevity R

ecent studies at Purdue University have found that openness (mental flexibility, a willingness to entertain new ideas and creativity) is good for your health in general. But to improve your survival rate, you need to focus on the creativity element.

In a sample of older men, only greater creativity predicted longer survival, demonstrating its protective role even at an advanced age. Creative people tend to be less stressed when presented with an emotional or physical problem because they see it as a challenge to be overcome rather than an unyielding obstacle. From Scientific American, September 9, 2012.

The Skinny on Fair Food

Last Month’s Answers

Last Month’s Winner Is Frank Gardner Congratulations!

Enter to Win!

Heading for the Florida State Fair and all those food wagons? Think twice! Here are the frightening caloric figures in that tempting food:

Calories in some State Fair food favorites 1,320 – Onion flower

1,135 – Smoked turkey leg (with skin) 1,200 – Large 10-ounce kettle popcorn

This Enter To Win! month’s winner is

790 – Cinnamon sugar funnel cake 655 – 6-ounce cheesecake on a stick 625 – 5 ½-ounce bag cotton candy 600 – Large 16-ounce Dippin’ Dots ice cream

Myron L. Guisewite

240 – Frozen chocolate-covered banana

Congratulations !!!

330 – Candied apple 300 – Three fried Oreos 470 – Foot-long hot dog and bun

Last Month’s Answers

444 – Fried Snickers bar Source: The CalorieKing Calorie, Fat & Carbohydrate Counter

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I want information on: Travel / Cruises Recreation / Leisure Entertainment / Events

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Lake

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Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 29

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We proudly accept the following credit cards. IMPORTANT CONSUMER INFORMATION: DoubleTime offer valid on Basic 19 Plan and applies to new GreatCall customers only. Offer ends 3/31/13. Offer valid until plan is changed or cancelled. All GreatCall phones require a one-time set up fee of $35. Coverage and service are not available everywhere. You will not be able to make 9-1-1 calls when cellular service is not available. Rate plans do not include government taxes or assessment surcharges and are subject to change. No roaming or long distance charges for domestic calls within the U.S. There are no additional fees to call GreatCall’s 24-hour U.S. Based Customer Service. However, for calls to an Operator in which a service is completed, minutes will be deducted from your monthly balance equal to the length of the call and any call connected by the Operator, plus an additional 5 minutes. 1 We will refund the full price of the GreatCall phone if it is returned within 30 days of purchase in like-new condition. We will also refund your first monthly service charge if you have less than 30 minutes of usage. If you have more than 30 minutes of usage, a per minute charge of 35 cents will apply for each minute over 30 minutes. The activation fee and shipping charges are not refundable. Jitterbug and GreatCall are registered trademarks of GreatCall, Inc. Samsung is a registered trademark of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Copyright ©2012 Samsung Telecommunications America, LLC. Copyright ©2012 GreatCall, Inc. Copyright ©2012 by firstSTREET for Boomers and Beyond, Inc. All rights reserved.

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 30

Introducing The 2013 Florida State Fair—“Discover The Fun” C

elebrating the 500th anniversary of the arrival of Juan Ponce De León in Florida, this year’s 109th Annual Florida State Fair fully embraces Florida: 500 Years in the Making with a “Discover the Fun” theme. From February 7 – 18, the Florida State Fair deserves a top spot on the calendar as THE go-to destination for fun in February. The 2013 Florida State Fair is showcasing new and unique agricultural and cultural exhibits such as the new “Discovery Center,” a Tampa Bay History Center curated exhibit, and Florida Department of Agriculture’s new Traveling Exhibit. Get a map at the entrance and explore the “ConquistaTOUR,” a self-guided adventure through the State Fair including the new Florida Cattlemen’s Museum, Florida’s Learning Garden and Cow Hunter’s Camp in Cracker Country. In addition, fairgoers will “Discover Florida” with a Broadway-style musical performance

certain to please those who want to learn more about Florida. And new this year, there is a concert series planned including Starship featuring Mickey Thomas and the Bellamy Brothers, among others. Fairgoers can also expect the traditional favorites such as thrilling rides, shopping in Expo Hall, arts and crafts, a giant sand sculpture, tropical fish and more Aquaculture, the “Mooternity Ward,” horse shows, lots of animals, live entertainment and fun fair food from the traditional corn dog to crazy food on a stick. This year’s fair provides so many new ways to “Discover the Fun.” The Fair’s “COWquistador” logo provides a tribute to the European’s influence in the Sunshine State as well as a highlight of the state’s rich agricultural heritage. “The 2013 Florida State Fair offers many cultural and agricultural highlights,” notes Charles Pesano,

Executive Director of the Florida State Fair Authority. “We have added remarkable entertainment, fantastic exhibits and new features to this year’s State Fair that we know everyone of all ages will love.” “The Florida State Fair is not only a destination where families can find good food and great adventures; it’s also a celebration of

Florida’s rich agricultural heritage,” said Florida’s Commissioner of Agriculture, Adam Putnam. The Florida State Fair is a sure ticket to “Discover the Fun.” For 12 days in February, the Florida State Fair will captivate visitors with special discount days, making it sure to be an excellent overall value. The Fair will be held from February 7 – 18 at the Florida State Fairgrounds, 4800 U.S. Hwy. 301 North, Tampa 33610. Admission Tickets and Ride Armbands are $8 for adults or $4 for ages 6 – 11. Children 5 and under are free. Ride armbands are $25. You can purchase tickets online until February 6 at www.floridastatefair.com, or in person at Walgreens stores (beginning January 2) and at the Florida State Fairgrounds Box Office—discounts through Feb. 6. Parking is free. For more information, go to www. floridastatefair.com and Like them on facebook.com/floridastatefairgrounds.

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Take Your Mature Driver Course On The Internet! If you have a Florida Driver’s License and are 55 years of age or older, you are now eligible to complete motor vehicle accident prevention course that will allow you to receive a mandatory reduction on your insurance rate for three years.

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or call 1-800-771-2255 Lifestyles After 50 • January 2013 • page 31

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