Lifestyles After 50 Marion/Lake/Sumter September 2013 edition by Lifestyles After 50 Magazine

Lifestyles

www.lifestylesafter50fl.com • Lake/Marion • FREE

AFTER 50

Vol. 24 • September 2013

Back to School For the Fun of It! u

Uncle Sam Turns 200

u What’s New in Cruising u Grandparents Are the Best!

Back To School Now Means Learning Just for the Fun of It! Dear Readers,

“Learning is ever young, even in old age.”

t’s back to school time. When I look through an old photo Janice Doyle, Editor album, my siblings and I stand side by side on the front steps dressed for the first day of school in a variety of plaids—dresses for the girls and shirts for the boys. Kids don’t wear plaid dresses and shirts to school anymore. They prefer to advertise for companies by paying big bucks to wear a name like Abercrombie.

Going to school now means fascinating classes, exciting ﬁeld trips, vibrant book clubs, stimulating lectures, movies, trips, volunteer opportunities, new friends and much more. I hope you are going back to school yourself by taking one or more of the thousands of classes offered for seniors in west central Florida. This is your time to sit and discuss world events or read the classics or learn German without taking tests or doing homework. Did you know you can take actual on-campus college classes with the younger generation without paying tuition? It’s called the tuition-waiver plan (and doesn’t earn credits toward a degree). Students audit courses, are usually not required to buy books, but do pay registration, parking and other

fees. You’ll join many non-traditional students and, depending on your personality and willingness to join the discussions, you may even find yourself popular and in-demand for sharing a coffee at the student union. The world is changing—don’t be left behind by lack of computer use. Master that computer of yours to the level you care to know about. From basic to complex, computer classes are everywhere you turn! Classes for senior citizens teach financial and estate planning. Often lawyers talk to classes about wills and trusts; tax professionals may provide information about preparing an income tax form, filing income tax reports, planning a monthly/yearly budget and making investments wisely. As health issues multiply with age, seniors are very aware that healthy living is paramount in order for them to function both mentally and physically. From aerobics to line dancing to zumba and from taking supplements to having surgery, keep up with your health issues through classes. Lifelong Learning Yes, Lifelong Learning is what it’s all about. Many college campuses offer official programs as Osher Institutes. These are non-credit educational programs for those aged 50 and up with university connection and university support. The USF campus in Tampa hosts a Lifelong Learning Institute offering dozens of classes in many locations around the county. Eckerd College’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) says its

“programs are an experience in active thought”—the hallmark of Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes. In Ocala the “Master the Possibilities” program at On Top Of The World’s Circle Square Commons Town Center will offer about 350 programs September through December. In Sun City Center, United Community Church hosts the Community Church College offering two six-week semesters per year. In Charlotte County, the Lifelong Learning Institute offers classes, trips, lectures, discussions and great new friendships on the Charlotte Campus of Edison State College. The Renaissance Academy of Florida Gulf Coast University offers classes in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Port Charlotte, Bonita Springs, Naples, Marco and Estero. In Sarasota, the Lifelong Learning Academy uses the USF campus of Sarasota/ Manatee for its long list of classes, trips and special events. And in The Villages, residents find the Lifelong Learning College to help residents continually enrich their body, mind and soul. Check out your area. In addition to the specific organizations above, local senior centers, libraries, community centers and churches offer long lists of ways to have fun, enrich your mind and increase your skill levels in many areas of life. No plaid shirts or dresses required! This is not your childhood education relived. It’s a new day and the world is at your fingertips—as always—by way of education.

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

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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 October 2013 issue is Sept. 15, 2013. Magazines are out by the 7th of each month. All rights reserved.

Lifestyles After 50 • September 2013 • page 2

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Lifestyles After 50 â&#x20AC;˘ September 2013 â&#x20AC;˘ page 3

Lake County, Florida—Where All the World’s a Stage I

n Florida, sometimes it’s difficult to realize just how much difference volunteers make. Little theaters are a great example of this. Completely volunteer-based theater organizations in Marion and Lake County offer performances seen by tens of thousands of residents and visitors. The theaters also host educational programs for children, preparing another generation to “break a leg” out there on stage. Here are just some of the area’s theaters, each with a long history and a full schedule to enjoy. Buy your tickets now!

Ocala Civic Theatre The group, which began as Marion Players, has many years worth of staging plays under its belt, first at Osborne Theatre on Silver Springs Boulevard. Great growth and a name change to Ocala Civic Theatre occurred before the decision to build a 400-seat facility in the Appleton Cultural Center. Ocala Civic Theatre is ranked among the top thirty community theatres in

theatre and for “moving pictures” with organ accompaniment. The first sound motion picture, The Jazz Singer starring Al Jolson, had its southern premier at the State before theaters in Tampa and Miami. Then came movies and finally, in 1974, it closed. Seeing the potential, in 1975 a small group of theatre aficionados opened as The the country as they Bay Street Players open their 64th year. with a successful In recent years, they run of Hello, have performed to Dolly and live over 50,000 people theater took off in each season. They Eustis. Bay Street open with the popular The Bay Street Players. Players produce Les Miserables. five plays a year in their MAINSTAGE series in addition The Bay Street Players to hosting the Young People’s Theatre. The Bay Street Players theater group Recognizing the desire of audiences opens its 39th season this month. for “cutting edge” and alternative Over 20,000 patrons visit the historic theater, the ambitious group has also 1916-built Eustis theatre each year. The added Second Stage Series. This year’s State Theater first served as a vaudeville theater opens with a Neil Simon play.

Ocala Civic Theatre.

Lifestyles After 50 • September 2013 • page 4

IceHouse Players In 1948, a theater group formed in Mount Dora and took root in an abandoned ice plant which needed much work but was deemed acoustically perfect. The IceHouse Players were on their way! Ten years later the current facility was built. Among the productions of The Sonnentag Theatre at the IceHouse for the upcoming season, look for Fiddler on the Roof and Smokey Joe’s Cafe. The Melon Patch Players The Melon Patch Players in Leesburg began in 1951 when members of the Leesburg Women’s Club offered use of their building for organizational meetings and rehearsals for a theater group. Since Leesburg at the time was considered the watermelon capital of Florida, the theater was named The Melon Patch Theater. Beginning shows were held in school auditoriums before the Patch built its current facility on 13th street in 1955. Other theater groups in the area prove that in central Florida “all the world’s a stage.”

Around Town

W H AT ’ S H A P P E N I N G S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 3

Clawgrass: Mark Johnson and Emory Lester. 7:30 pm. Banjo and mandolin play Bluegrass music. $20. Charles R. Dassance Fine Arts Center, College of Central Florida, Ocala. 352-873-5810.

through 29 Theatre production of Spamalot. Moonlight Warehouse Theatre, Clermont. 352-319-1116.

trucks, car show and more. Citizen’s Circle, Downtown Ocala. 352-629-8444.

through Oct 13 Theatre production of “Noises Off.” Sonnetag Theatre at the Icehouse, Mount Dora. 352-383-4616.

Love That Dress Event. Shop for new and gently used dresses; silent auction, raffles, delicacies. Admission: $25. Proceeds benefit PACE Center for Girls. Ocala Hilton. 5 to 9 pm. 352-369-0571.

through 29 Rifles, Rails & Living History Encampment. Civil War encampment. Formal ball, historic presentations, parade, ladies tea, cavalry demonstrations, drills, more. Wooten Park, Tavares. 321-377-8953 or www.riflesrailsandhistory.com.

Florence Nightingale “The Lady with the Lamp” Lunch Event. 1 pm. $20. Winsor Rose Restaurant and Tea Room, Mount Dora. 352-735-2551.

Food Truck Bazaar. Alexander Street will be lined with 10 to 15 unique trucks offering a wide variety of different food styles. Downtown Mount Dora. 352-383-2165.

Summer Jams and Food Truck Fridays. 5:30 to 10 pm. Local musicians, food available from food

SEPTEMBER 15TH (11A.M. - 5P.M.)

VINTAGE VENTURE $2 DONATION VINTAGE CAR SHOW LIVE VINTAGE 50’S AND 60’S MUSIC, FOOD & WINE OCTOBER 5 TH (10A.M. - 5P.M.)

and 24 Showstoppers II, music and dance show, $20 and $25. Savannah Center, The Villages. 352-753-3229.

OCTOBER 6 TH (11A.M. - 5P.M.)

Safety never felt so good

™

Beatle Beat Again. $15 and $25. Mount Dora Community Building. 352-735-7183.

Taste of Class at the Villages. Sample the the Tri-county area’s finest restaurants. Roarin 20’s theme; black tie, Gangsters and Flappers. $75. Savannah Center, The Villages. 352-753-3229.

Spencer’s: Theatre of Illusion. Fusion of magic, illusion, humor, mystery, psychology and personality. Charles R. Dassance Fine Arts Center, College of Central Florida, Ocala. 352-873-5810.

Send Around Town news to News Connection USA, Inc., P.O. Box 638, Seffner, FL 33583; fax (813) 651-1989 or email calendar@srnewsconnection. com. News must be received by the 10th of the month prior to event (i.e. September 10 for October event.)

LIFETIME LIMITED WARRANTY N THE U.S.A EI

and 15 Jazz at the Winery. Wine, food, live music. Admission: $2 donation. Lakeridge Winery, Clermont. 352-394-8627.

SEPTEMBER 14 TH (10A.M. - 5P.M.)

Walk to End Alzheimer’s, Tuscawilla Park (North of Downtown Square), Ocala. Check in 8 am; ceremony 9 am. Information at 407-9517992, ext. 104 or ksakowicz@alz.org.

Food Truck-n-Flick Night. 5:30 pm. Free screening of “Brave.” Bring lawn chairs. Downtown Leesburg. 352-365-0053.

LIVE MUSIC, FOOD & WINE $2 DONATION

Cattle Baron’s Ball. Fund raiser for American Cancer Society. Entertainment by country artist John Anderson, gourmet fare, casino games, live/silent auctions. Lake Receptions, Mount Dora. 352-3269599 or cattlebaronsballlake.com.

JAZZ AT THE WINERY

MA D

through Oct 13 Theatre production of Les Miserables. Ocala Civic Theatre. 352-236-2274.

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The Important Role of Grandparents BY MICHAEL E. GLASSCOCK III, Author of Little Joe and the Round Rock Series

y own childhood was greatly influenced by my grandparents. What’s interesting is that my maternal and paternal grandparents were very different individuals from diverse backgrounds. My paternal grandparents were wire walkers in the circus and later in vaudeville. They filled my head with wonderful stories of their adventures all over the world. My maternal grandparents lived in a small town in Tennessee. My grandmother was a retired Latin teacher, and her husband was a handyman. Yet both sets of grandparents were very important in shaping my character. My grandmother spent hours reading to me when I was a child and was responsible for my lifelong fascination with fiction and my love of reading.

Celebrate Grandparents Day, Sept. 8

Time Grandparents are in a unique position to influence their grandchildren in so many positive ways. To do this most effectively, grandparents need time with their grandchildren. Many factors account for the amount of time that grandparents spend with their grandchildren. More individuals continue in the work force past the age

of sixty-five and retire later than the generation before them. This means these grandparents may not have the time to spend with their grandchildren that previous generations had. I’ve talked to a number of grandparents over the years, and the majority of them feel that their children are not doing an adequate job of raising their children. Many grandparents feel their grandchildren are overscheduled. In other words, the children are hauled from one after-school event to another by a busy mother or father. This includes extracurricular activities such as sports (football, baseball and soccer) and artistic classes (dance, music lessons, etc.). Many grandparents wonder whether their grandchildren ever have time to themselves, and if they do spend any down time, is it consumed with television and video games? I can’t count how many times I’ve had grandparents tell me they’ve asked a grandchild to go outside and play. Usually the child looks at them with dismay. They say, “It’s too hot or it’s too cold. There’s nothing to do. I’ll get bored.” The generation of grandparents who grew up without technology has a hard time accepting these statements. These grandparents’ attitude is that the children will grow up without the benefit of developing an imagination, and many of them will not know how to entertain themselves.

Lifestyles After 50 • September 2013 • page 6

Geography Geography also plays a role in some families. If grandparents live in another city or state, it may be difficult for them to stay engaged with a grandchild. This is where the positives of technology come in: Technophiles are able to use video conferencing to connect with their grandchildren. All one needs is a computer with a video camera and access to the internet to play an important role in grandchildren’s lives! Spoiling Of course, sometimes grandparents are known for “spoiling” their grandchildren… but really, they can be quite influential financially if they’re able to

Michael E. Glasscock III

be. If there is a single-parent household, grandparents are sometimes able to help their grandchildren financially and make a significant difference to the entire family in a time of financial distress. It is important to realize that some grandparents do not have a desire to be involved in their grandchildren’s lives, and this lack of involvement can be confusing for children. It makes them question whether they are loved. This, of course, is a personality issue. Some individuals are more caring and loving than others. And some individuals may love their grandchildren but have a difficult time showing it. I do believe, though, that grandparents who choose not to spend time with their grandchildren are missing out on a lot… and certainly their grandchildren are, as well. During this time when we celebrate grandparents, families should know that grandparents can be extremely important influences in a child’s life. It may be as simple as reading a story, or perhaps the grandparent teaches their grandchild to do something new (fish, change a tire or whip up the famous old family recipe). Maybe the grandparent even raises the child in place of the parents. When it comes down to it, grandparents excel at the little things in life. Quality time spent between grandparents and grandchildren is a priceless gift. The author is an Otolaryngologist in Nashville. His new book is “Little Joe,” the story of a boy growing up with his grandparents after the death of his parents during WWII. It’s also a story of childhood friendships and what they can mean. The story’s grandparents are good models for grandparents at any time.

BY GRACE GROTE

Hi There, Africa!

ou think I’m a computer dunce, don’t you? You’re wrong, sweetheart: I know a really big computer word: Skype. My dog walker, a very smart lady, has set up her brother-in-law’s computer so that he, she and her little dog Minnie can see and be seen by their family in Nigeria, chatting (and barking) back and forth across the world. Skype, I say, is a truly dazzling and useful modern miracle.

Skype, I say, is a truly dazzling and useful modern miracle.

on my screen, I say I’ll download it. Does it bother me that when I need to bring something up I say I’m going to load it down? Not anymore. When I got my new PC years ago, And I use some other computer my nephew turned it on for me and words too. (No, I am not referring in very short order we were looking to those dark hours when it flat-out at Felix the Cat, whom I had not met disobeys and I am surprised at some since childhood. When the nephew of the words I shoot at it.) For an unwent home, I tried to get rid of Felix. emotional everyday example: suppose He would not go. I tried to turn RAO Boon Mature Lifestyles.pdf 1 7/25/13 PM there is something I want to bring up off the2:12 computer. It would not turn

off. Desperate, I called in my neighbor, a keyboard virtuoso, who said, “It’s simple: You want to turn it off, you just hit START.” Well, of course—anybody should know that if you want to make something stop, you hit START.” It hit me like ice water down the spine that I was in the dead serious language-challenged world of High Cyber Tech where I spotted Alice and the Rabbit whizzing by. But what I see now is a bunch of smart-ass little boys who have built a tree-house and sit in it making up their secret language: “If we say red it means blue, and if we say blue it means green and if we say up it means down and…” And so on happily, giddily, into the night! Isn’t it time somebody’s mother called them in for supper and handed them their English homework? On the other hand, if they invented Skype…

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Lifestyles After 50 • September 2013 • page 7

Veterans Corner

Uncle Sam at 200—Lookin’ Good, Dude! BY JANICE DOYLE

Photo by R. Burch Photography

Hot! Hot! Just off the Press

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For Korean Wartime Vets

he US government wishes to award every US Korean veteran a certificate of appreciation, as part of its 60th Anniversary Commemoration of the ending of the Korean War. You are eligible whether or not you were physically in Korea during this time. Apply for this appreciation certificate if

you served in any branch of the US military (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines or Coast Guard) between June 25, 1950, through the armistice on July 27, 1953. Families of deceased Korean veterans may apply on their behalf. Veterans or their family members can apply for the certificate by visiting koreanwar60.com.

Lifestyles After 50 • September 2013 • page 8

e looks pretty good for a guy who’s 200 years old. He’s endured a lot and no one is quite agreed on his true origins, but we love him anyway. The generic “Uncle Sam” in red, white and blue attire and stars and stripes is a personification of the United States, formed from the letters “U. S.” The name became popular in the War of 1812 with England personified then as “John Bull.” The recruiting poster with Uncle Sam asking “What Are You Doing for Preparedness?” in 1916 and using his portrait of “Uncle Sam” went on to become— The original 1917 according to its creator, poster (above) James Montgomery and modern-day Flagg—“the most famous parody (below) poster in the world.” Over four million copies were printed between 1917 and 1918, as the U.S. entered World War I and began sending troops and matériel into war zones. Because of its overwhelming popularity, the James Montgomery image was later adapted Flagg, creator of the for use in World War II. iconic “Uncle Sam The term “Uncle Sam” Wants You” poster. is of somewhat obscure derivation and different authorities give different versions. It’s worth noting that all the early references to Uncle Sam appeared in “peace” newspapers—that is, papers opposed to the War of 1812— and in every case the usage was derisive. This suggests Uncle Sam was dreamed up by critics of the government who simply wanted to personify the object of their scorn. Through the years, people have adapted the classic “Uncle Sam Wants You” recruiting poster to a variety of contemporary WWI political cartoon featuring Uncle Sam themes. The posters by Clifford Berryman; “March Seventeenth,” are intended to be both 03/17/1918. Library of Congress. patriotic and amusing.

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Medicare for Workers Over 65 T

urning 65 has traditionally been associated with the start of a person’s retirement and, accordingly, his or her Medicare coverage. But if you are a baby boomer and you choose to work past the traditional retirement age, it’s important that you understand how this choice impacts your Medicare coverage. “Medicare enrollment can be confusing, especially if you work past age 65 and have employer-sponsored health coverage,” says Tom Paul, chief consumer officer, UnitedHealthcare. “Regardless of when you plan to retire, it’s important to learn about Medicare as you approach your 65th birthday so you have time to consider your options and can feel confident about the choices you make.” Keep these things in mind:

Timing Matters: Pay attention to your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP). The IEP is a seven-month period that includes the three months before your 65th birthday, the month of your birthday, and the three months after your birthday. You should understand how your enrollment choices during the IEP could impact your health care coverage both now and in the future. Keep in mind that many people choose to enroll in Medicare Part A (for hospital care) when they turn 65 even if they have employer coverage. For most people, Part A is available for no monthly premium and can be combined with some employer-sponsored health plans. Penalties and Gaps Are Possible: If you don’t sign up for Medicare coverage during your IEP, you could experience a gap in coverage later and could also incur penalties on your premiums for Medicare

Lifestyles After 50 • September 2013 • page 10

Part B (doctor’s visits) and Part D (prescription medications). To avoid these scenarios, be proactive in contacting Medicare to notify them of your delayed enrollment and make sure you understand the rules and requirements for future enrollment. HR Can Help: Your employer’s HR or benefits coordinator can help you understand your current health coverage and when you should enroll in Medicare. Some key questions to ask: • Should I enroll in Original Medicare while I continue to receive employer-sponsored benefits? It’s not always an either-or situation. Sometimes people can combine their employer-sponsored coverage with Medicare benefits. • Does my employer-sponsored plan offer prescription drug benefits that qualify as “creditable coverage?”

If the answer is yes, then you won’t need to enroll in Medicare Part D as long as you have your employer-sponsored coverage.

• When I am ready to retire, what steps will I need to take to fully transition to Medicare coverage or retiree benefits through my employer? Be sure to plan well in advance as it can take several months for your Medicare enrollment to be processed, meaning you could face a lapse in coverage if you wait until the last minute. If you would like further information on Medicare, the IEP and how Medicare differs from employer-sponsored health coverage, you can call 1-800-MEDICARE (TTY: 1-877-486-2048), 24 hours a day, seven days a week, or visit these websites: Medicare.gov and MedicareMadeClear.com. (NAPSI)

Time For Plan B BY PAUL TEMPLER

ometimes life doesn’t seem fair and when that happens some people get caught up in the “this sucks!” story. But there’s also Plan B which can be extremely uncomfortable because it removes the view of yourself as a “victim.” Plan B here refers to those moments when we allow ourselves to get in our own way. Caught up in this story that “life’s dumped on me,” we often tranquilize ourselves with the notion that we have every right to indulge in a bout of heroic suffering. “Others” seem to not have the problems we do or they respond well in stressful situations. In reality, they are people who discovered that that attitude is optional and then took the time to do something about it. At first blush this might seem easier said than done. But, when it’s broken into steps, it’s not that difficult.

Retirement Living The first step is acceptance. You have to just face the situation head-on and come to terms with it. Until you accept what you’re confronted with, you simply can’t move forward. The next step is to understand that while you might not have the power to change your situation, you do have control over how you respond to it. Whatever happens next is entirely up to you. You might not like the choices you’re faced with, but you can have a happier and more productive outcome if you take action rather than wallowing in self-pity. Hard science states that our reactions to stress are largely biological: stress or danger—real or imagined—activates a “fight-or-flight” response. Respiratory rates increase, pupils dilate, sight becomes more focused, awareness intensifies, impulses quicken and pain thresholds heighten. Our perception of time seems to slow down. In this state,

we actually become more rigid, less resilient and focus on short-term survival, not long-term consequences. The tricky thing is that in most cases, once our fight-or-flight response is activated, we can neither run away nor fight. When faced with a “hippo”—whether it’s in the form of a cranky co-worker, a stalled car, or a missed commitment—we can either choose to face and accept them or act or respond in ways that are counterproductive to our survival. The key is to utilize the beneficial effects of stress to manage our own moods and influence the moods of others. Here’s a tried and tested and incredibly effective five-step process:

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1. Center yourself. Take a few deep breaths.

2. Avoid unproductive moods—they won’t take you where you want to go. 3. Think about how others might perceive you by asking “Is the way I’m acting opening or closing possibilities?”

4. Ask yourself if the story you’re caught up in is taking you where you want to go. If it is, great! Be sure there is substance to your story. Are you caught up in the situation for needing to be right while someone or something else has to be wrong. What are the facts? How is what I’m doing working for me? 5. Rewrite the ending. Now that you’ve removed the drama and can clearly see just the facts, adjust the story you’ve been telling yourself and begin moving forward into your new story.

The author is a business coach and speaker. His autobiography “What’s Left of Me” explores his near-death experience with a rogue hippo that ultimately forced him to rebuild his life and career. More at paultempler.com.

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Lifestyles After 50 • September 2013 • page 11

BY EVELYN MACKEY

t’s no secret that the recent recession and lingering economic downturn at the same time have taken a toll on the cruise industry. Still, cruises remain high on the list of activities for seniors, and now is a good time to think of a winter cruise or plan ahead for the 2014 season since companies are focused on getting their ticket prices back up, according to the 2013 Cruise Industry News Annual Report. The report says the companies have slowed down the introduction of new ships and routes in established markets, thus allowing demand to catch up. All the cruise lines realize that the future of the industry—barring any catastrophic world events—looks good so long as they operate their ships safely and continue to deliver a top-notch product.

Travel What’s the news for you?

• Themed cruises are still hot! From quilting to single mingles, pick and theme and a cruise at the same time. The Country Music Cruise featuring Kenny Rogers, Vince Gill, Ronnie Milsap, the Gatlins and many more stars will cruise January 19 – 26, 2014, aboard Holland America’s M/S Eurodam. There’s still time to get tickets. (See ad in this magazine.)

accessible to cruise visitors. By night the ships are brightly lit and joined by countless escort ships which travel the Elbe during the event— August 1 – 4, 2014.

• Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas remain popular. These biggestever ships are destinations in themselves and prove that boarding thousands of people without waiting in lines is possible. The neighborhood design, entertainment and dining choices continue to impress cruisers. Beware the many add-ons at a charge.

• Could the Delta Queen steamboat sail again? Efforts are underway to allow the historic and beloved wooden steamboat sail the Mississippi River again. The 1927-built National Historic Landmark now operates as a permanently moored hotel in Chattanooga, Tenn. A bill is before both the House and Senate to grant the Delta Queen a 15-year exemption from the federal law that bans overnight passenger operations on the wooden vessel.

• Cruise lines have begun posting alleged crime data on their websites after a Senate hearing. Cruise Lines Interna International Association reported that the data shows shipboard crime is far lower than crime rates on land. Examples: Norwegian Cruise Line showed just one Kenny Rogers report between Jan. 1 and June • Intimate yacht cruising on the Country 30 this year, a sexual assault offers real-time adventure! Music Cruise. allegation reported by a passen passenWindstar Cruises is adding ger. Royal Caribbean’s statistics three ships to its present for the April 1 – June 30 period fleet of three. The line’s appeal of eclectic ports of call, comfort and per- show three thefts of over $10,000. sonal service draws a diverse clientele. • River cruising in Europe is still hot. Tauck said the river cruise bookings • Shore appeal is big as cruisers look in France have leaped by 137 percent for new experiences. Hamburg Cruise since it opened for business on the Days, for example, ranks among Rhone River in 2011. The company’s Europe’s most popular and successful selections include three special public events. The big ships dock in the harbour located in the very heart of interest departures for families, culinary enthusiasts and art lovers. the city, which makes the town easily Lifestyles After 50 • September 2013 • page 12

Seabourn’s “White Christmas” cruise to Antarctica.

• St Petersburg, Russia, is a more popular spot than ever. In the first six months of the 2013 cruising season, the port recorded an increase in passenger numbers of 24 percent compared to the same six months last year. The Baltic cruise season is short—book now for 2014.

• P&O Cruises will offer a new fly-cruise program for the first time in spring 2015 featuring islands such as Bequia in the Grenadines, Cayenne in French Guiana and Trujillo in Honduras. The small-ship company also offers itineraries that include the Amazon River, rainforests of Central America as well as the popular Caribbean destinations. • Seabourn line is offering the ultimate white Christmas with a Christmas Day visit to Antarctica aboard the Seabourn Quest. The 24-day cruise also includes days exploring the Chilean coast and fjords, Beagle Channel, Glacier Alley, the Torres del Paine National Park, Cape Horn, Montevideo.

Floating city “Allure of the Seas” has everything—including Starbucks.

Sail with wind power on a Windjammer.

Cruise Russia’s rivers to the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg.

The historic Delta Queen may sail the Mississippi again.

HouseAfter Edge50? Isn’t What’s YourA Low Lifestyle the End All, But It Helps Tell us in 260 words or less.

YOU BELONG AT THE BEAU

BY MARK PILARSKI

How do you spend your Lifestyle After 50? What makes ear Mark: it really comes your life When fulfilling, your day fun, your grandkids smile and down to it, isn’t in the end all, all Each month we will select a your neighbors jealous? about thewrite-up house edge it comes towhen publish in Lifestyles After 50 magazine.

to winning and losing? —Wayne L.

All casino games fall into one of two categories. They are either games of luck or games of skill. In games of luck, the house edge is predetermined, so the opportunity to determine success is taken out of your hands. With games of skill, players make decisions, that will affect that so-called “house edge.” What you do not want to do, Wayne, is think the house edge is the end all. The speed of the game, or number Dear Mark: Did you ever notice of decisions per hour, can be just as when you worked in the casino that important. Some games are incredibly fast, such as video poker. Some games players avoided them on Friday the 13th? I figure there are many are painstakingly slow, for instance, playersare whoapproximately shun the casino because According to AARP 100 keno. On a fast-paced game Research, with a low there they are superstitious. —Jane B. house edge, you lose considerably million 50+can adults, and the number is growing. For many of morethese per hour than on aand slowseniors, game life is only just beginning and boomers Since the delusory day of Friday the with a much higher house edge. retirement is a chance to fulfill dreams travel on aambitions, Friday, coinciding Also, the house edge on some games 13th landsand it being a payRday in America, world influenced or catch up on some with much-needed & R. willthe be directly by the I’m saying the answer is no. playing decisions you make, while Polls show that spending time with friends andplayers familydo confuse Yes, Jane, certain on other games it is not. The house doingsuch activities that center superstition around hobbies, travel, with the mathematics of edgeand on games as blackjack gambling. That said, you don’t lose reading, and physical and brain and entertaining, video poker is affected by cooking, your because you saw a black catlists in the hand-to-hand decisions. By making fitness are on the top of most older Americans’ to-do casino parking lot; you lose because the right choices, can maximize these days.you Vivacious boomersyou areare also spending splitting 10s at their blackjack. A your winning potential on any given personal time volunteering in activities that involve helpingto do jackpot win at slots has nothing hand. Play poorly, and the low house people with disabilities, distributing food and fundraising with a rabbit’s foot in your pocket. edge of the game can’t help you. Over time, the decisions for a good cause. Still others eschew retirement and you stay On games such as craps, bacmake, combined with the odds of carat, and slots, you just for a love of the job or a chance to inroulette the workforce, either the games you play, automatically haveraise to make the correct bets to thatlive comfortably in their retirement enough money determine your financial bottom line. have the lowest house edge. and be able to do the things theyDon’t want do. beto a gambler who believes Essential to every player’s success is in luck. Think as the casino does— understanding two fundamentals Needthat a Hard Copy? believe in math. (SENIOR WIRE) will increase chances of win- to Lifestyles Get a one’s year’s subscription After 50 for only ning: They are, as you state, sticking $12. Send your name, address and subscription fee to: Gambling Wisdom of the Month: to bets that have a low house edge — like two percent or less,News and, developConnection USA, Inc. of lining up four The likelihood ing competence in thoseAttn: games. “My Lifestyle After 50” Megabucks symbols is somewhere in the By doing so, Wayne, P.O. you’llBox stand638, a Seffner, cosmos between Jupiter and Mars, and FL 33583 decent chance of turning the tables in even a spokesman at IGT would not admit your favor, stayingFor in action morelonger information, us at: to the email mathematical probability of hitting and stopping the flight ofinfo@lifestylesafter50.com your hardone of the blasted things. – Barney Vinson earned cash into the casino coffers.

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Health Tips For Men

r. Bob, The Drugless Doctor, has optimal men’s health tips to staying strong and healthy, at any age.

problematic symptoms. Eating more broccoli, which has aromatase inhibitors, will help prevent the conversion of testosterone to estrogen.

• Thinning hair? Avoid prematurely thinning hair by eliminating trans fats and adding more omega-3 fats into your diet. There have been studies with laboratory animals losing their hair when omega-3 fats were removed from their diet.

HOT TOPICS AT THE BRIDGE Thursday, September 5th @ 7-8:30 p.m. DRESS COLLECTION PARTY

Donate your gently worn dresses that will be sold at theannual “Love That Dress” event for PACE – Believing in Girls. The Dress Collection Party held at The Bridge will include beverages, refreshments, entertainment and door prizes. For every dress donated you will receive a $1.00 coupon toward the purchase of a dress at the event. Donate five dresses and receive a raffle ticket to win a four-pack of tickets to attend the event ($100 value.) The event will take place at The Ocala Hilton on September 12, 2013 at 5 p.m. All proceeds from the sale of the dresses will go to PACE – Believing in Girls

Tuesday, September 17th @ 2:30 p.m. IMPROVING COMMUNICATIONS WITH AGING PARENTS

Learn how to open the line of communication, know which topics are most difficult to discuss, learn approach methods, how to overcome communication barriers, and find the resources to seek help and support. Presented by Jim Samuelson, Samuelson Personal Care, LLC.

Thursday, September 26th @ 2:00 p.m. VETERANS SEMINAR

Learn how to qualify for the Aid & Attendance Pension Benefit from the Veterans Administration. You may be entitled to as much as $24,648 in Tax-Free money per year. This is valuable information and a presentation you will not want to miss. Presented by Gary Marriage, Jr., Operation: Veteran Aid.

(352) 873-2036 2800 SW 41st St., Bldg. 200 • Ocala, FL 34474 www.thebridgeatocala.com Assisted Living Facility License #9612 Lifestyles After 50 • September 2013 • page 14

• Want to avoid hunchback? Purchase a large exercise ball, about 55 cm around and lay backwards on it for three to six minutes a day. This will help your spinal cord, lungs and other organs function better. • Low Testosterone? Insufficient testosterone levels can cause emotional passiveness, osteoporosis, loss of muscle tone, loss of height, erectile dysfunction and many other

• Losing lean muscle? Reduce your carbohydrate intake. As you age, your ability to metabolize carbohydrates decreases. So instead of utilizing the carbohydrates for energy, your body starts to use your lean muscle. Also try eating more protein, which metabolizes as amino acids, not sugar. Dr. Bob is author of “Dr. Bob’s Guide to Balancing Female Hormones” alongside the new audio release of “Dr. Bob’s Men’s Health—The Basics.” He answers health related questions on YouTube via @DruglessDoctor #AskDrBob.

Medicare Answers D

ear Marci, My doctor gave me an Advanced Beneficiary Notice. What is an Advanced Beneficiary Notice? —Ali

Dear Ali, an Advance Beneficiary Notice (ABN), also known as a waiver of liability, is a notice that Medicare providers must give you when they know or have reason to believe that Medicare will not pay for a particular health care service or item. The ABN explains that Medicare may not pay for your health care services and allows you to choose whether you still want to receive those services. Medicare providers will only give you an ABN if you have Original Medicare, the traditional Medicare program offered directly through the federal government. Your provider will give you an ABN for a health care service or item that Medicare may not cover. Bear in mind that providers do not have to give you an ABN for services or items that Medicare does not cover, such as

hearing aids or routine dental care. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, also known as a Medicare private health plan, you will not receive an ABN. If you have Original Medicare and you sign an ABN before you receive a health care service, you are responsible for the full cost of the service you receive if Medicare does not pay for it. If your provider does not give you an ABN to sign before you receive a health care service, you do not have to pay the full cost of the service if Medicare does not pay for it. Remember, an ABN is not an official denial of coverage by Medicare. If Medicare does not pay for a health care service you receive, you have the right to appeal (i.e. file a formal request for review of an official decision made by Original Medicare). —Marci

The Healthy Geezer BY FRED CICETTI

: A friend told me that sinusitis could be causing a mild toothache I had, so I waited a while. Well, when my sinuses cleared, the tooth pain disappeared. Was my friend right?

A: I can write from personal ex-

perience on this one. I had a bad toothache that sent me to my dentist. He did some x-rays and could find nothing wrong. He asked me about my sinuses and I told him I was fighting an infection. Bingo. Yes, infection in the sinuses located in your cheekbones can cause your upper jaw and teeth to ache, and your cheeks to become tender to the touch. Sinusitis is a nasty malady that can do much more than give you a toothache. Sinusitis, which is infection or inflammation of the sinuses, creates suffering for about 37 million Americans every year. The sinuses are four pairs of cavities: the frontal sinuses over the eyes, maxillary sinuses inside each cheekbone, ethmoid sinuses just behind the bridge of the nose, and sphenoid sinuses behind the ethmoids. Each sinus is connected to the nose. Acute sinusitis lasts for 4 weeks or less. Subacute sinusitis runs 4 to 8 weeks. Chronic sinusitis can continue for years. Recurrent sinusitis includes several acute attacks within a year. Unlike sinusitis, a common cold usually goes away without treatment in about 10 days. So, if you have what feels like a bad cold for longer than 10 days, go to your doctor for a check-up. Most cases of acute sinusitis start with a cold or allergy attack, which inflames the mucous membranes of

the sinuses. Swelling traps air and mucus in the sinuses and they cannot drain properly. The trapped mucus creates ideal conditions for bacteria to grow. Symptoms of chronic sinusitis may be less severe than those of acute sinusitis. However, untreated chronic sinusitis can cause damage to the sinuses and cheekbones that sometimes requires surgery to repair. Most people with sinusitis have pain or tenderness. Other symptoms of sinusitis can include fever, weakness, fatigue, nasal congestion, cough and sore throat. If you have acute sinusitis, your doctor may prescribe decongestants, antibiotics and pain relievers. Many cases of acute sinusitis will end without antibiotics. Many health care providers treat chronic sinusitis as though it is an infection, by using antibiotics and decongestants. Others use both antibiotics with steroid nasal sprays. Further research is needed to determine the best treatment. When medical treatment fails, surgery may be the only alternative for treating chronic sinusitis. The most common surgery done today is functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) to enlarge the natural openings and allow drainage. FESS is less invasive than conventional sinus surgery. With the endoscope, the surgeon can look directly into the nose while clearing the narrow channels between the sinuses. This type of surgery can be done under local or general anesthesia. One worthwhile way to help keep your sinuses clear is to use an overthe-counter saltwater nasal wash every day. Most pharmacies carry them. They help remove mucus and bacteria from the nose and sinuses. I use one myself and it has been beneficial. 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 © 2013 by Fred Cicetti.

Free InFormatIon ServIce Lifestyles After 50

for information please return completed form to:

News Connection USA, Inc. • P.O. Box 278 • Laurel FL 34272-0278

Name: Address: City: Phone:

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E-mail: o Single o Married o Are you a Group Leader? Please contact me by: o Mail o Phone o E-mail SEND INFORMATION ON AREA(S) CHECKED BELOW AUTOMOBILES: TRAVEL: o Automobile Sales o Cruises o Land Tours o Maintenance and Repairs o Hotels/ Resorts o Recreational Vehicles o Local Attractions o Getaway Packages RESIDENTIAL LIVING: o Mfd/FactoryBuilt Homes HOUSING OpTIONS o RV Resort o Independent o Apartments o Assisted Living o Villa/Condo/Single Family o Senior Apartment o Golf Community o Continuing Care/LifeCare pERSONAL HEALTH: FINANCIAL/ LAW: o Physicians o Reverse Mortgages o Dentists o Retirement planning o Eye Care o Trusts o Foot Care/Arch Supports o Estate planning o Weight Loss o Guardianships o Supplements o Elder Law o Home Health LEISURE TIME: o Prescription Drugs o Golf o Counseling o Gambling o Spas/Gym o Boating o Medical Supplies o Theater INSURANCE: o Dining In/Out o Medicare HOME IMpROVEMENTS: o Health o Sunrooms o Long-term care o Pools/spas o Auto o Contractor o Life o Home Modifications o Home OTHER: LK

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Lifestyles After 50 • September 2013 • page 15

Mr. Modem

by Richard Sherman Why do online companies offer rebates instead of just selling a product at a lower price? It seems like there are always strings attached such as receiving a rebate check that can only be used to purchase other company products. I love your weekly newsletter, Mr. M. Keep up the good work. Companies have various reasons for offering rebates, but in general, there are three primary reasons: First, the time between the purchase and the rebate can be several months, a period in which your money is in the company’s possession, undoubtedly earning interest or working in other ways to its advantage. This may seem insignificant, but to a company that sells

MOMENTS LIKE Discounts? THESE ARE PRECIOUS. Why Rebates, Not DON’T LET THEM FADE AWAY. hundreds of thousands (or millions) of widgets, it can be substantial. Second, what better way for a company to obtain your personal data for subsequent contact or to sell to others than by offering you money (in the form of a rebate) for your information? Third, companies know that most people are busy or lazy (or both) and won’t go to the trouble of cutting out a bar code or providing the requisite paperwork to obtain a rebate. In this way, the company gets to attract purchasers by advertising a low price, and in most instances selling an item for a higher price because the purchaser never applies for the rebate. What a deal! Would it be beneficial to purchase a copy of Windows 7 and set it aside for a future installation? Now that Windows 8 is out, I’m worried that Windows

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or call 1-800-771-2255 Lifestyles After 50 • September 2013 • page 16

7 won’t be available a year or two when you move the mouse is often from now. I would appreciate your called a cursor, although some annoythinking on this macular matter, Mr.degeneration M. ing purists might argue that technically Age-related (AMD) only the blinking line that comprises is theWhile leading cause in people 55 there areof noblindness guarantees a DOS and when older.itItcomes is a chronic disease affecting prompt can be properly called to operating a cursor. For most users, myself more than million Americans,that and early systems, it’s 10 been my experience included, the terms “pointer” and detection is keyoftoWindows saving your previous versions tendsight. “cursor” can be used interchangeably. toProtect be available years from after they yourforvision fading away. A cursor can take several forms. For areCall nothe longer the current operating Foundation Fighting Blindness example, it may change into a small system. Foraexample, Vista today for free info Windows packet about hand when hovering over a link, or replaced Windows XP in January preventing and managing AMD. it may become an animated cursor, 2007, more than six years ago, yet if in the form of a rotating hour glass, you search amazon.com, you will find when Windows is in the process a number of retailers who still have of loading a page or program. (My it available. If history does indeed A Cure Is In Sight cousin Leo became an animated repeat itself, Windows 7 is going to cursor once when he got hit in the 800-610-4558 be available for many years to come. head by a golf ball. No damage to the FightBlindness.org ball, fortunately.) (SENIOR WIRE) I know this is a weird question, but what is the proper Use Promo Code MODEM when name for the little mouse pointer? entering your 6-month subscription to Weird questions are always wel- Mr. Modem’s weekly computer-help come here in Mr. Modemville! newsletter and receive a 7th month The object that moves on the screen free! Visit www.MrModem.com.

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George Bernard Shaw once said “Youth is wasted on the young.” Were he alive today, he might well say that computers and the Internet are wasted on the young. The very people who can benefit most from the digital revolution are the ones who are least likely to take advantage of it. Computers seem to be designed for teenagers, and many older folks are intimidated by the complex operating systems and complicated navigation. It’s gotten so bad that some people have to pay for instructional videos or go to classes just to use their computer. Now, the leader in finding products for Boomers and Beyond™ has developed a computer that’s designed just for people like you. It’s helping thousands of people get back into life by keeping them connected. Let’s start with the computer itself. It features the latest touch-screen technology, so if you can dial a phone, you can use this computer. If you’d rather use a keyboard and a mouse, we’ve included those too. The keyboard features large lettering and the trackball mouse is easy to use. The speakers enable you to turn up the volume if you have trouble hearing, and there is even a built-in camera for taking photographs of yourself and for video chat.

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September Sudoku Last Month’s Answers August 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. The first correct answers selected from the drawing on Sept. 21 will win. Good luck! Send your answers along with your name, address and telephone number to: NEWS CONNECTION USA, INC P.O. BOX 638, SEFFNER, FL 33583 Mystery Prize! WIN! WIN! WIN! GREAT PRIZES! (Sudoku must be received by September 21, 2013.)

Word Search September

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?

Maureen Kalloo is last month’s winner! Congratulations!

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Lifestyles After 50 • September 2013 • page 18

Eve Wilson is last month’s winner! Congratulations!

Ask Cindy: Exclusive Make-Up Tips For Women Over 50 drinking enough water throughout your day. Drink lots of water.

What causes puffiness under the eyes?

ow we are over 50 and yes, we all have puffy eyes—more on some days than others. What could the culprit be? Any issue from much salt in your diet to sleep deprivation. Here are some of the puffy eyelids and puffy eyes causes: • Changes in your hormone levels. Chances are that your body is retaining fluid around the thin skin below your eyes. • Edema or fluid retention can be caused through inflammation or irritancy in your body’s system. • Dehydration could be from consuming alcohol or simply not

• Puffiness can be directly related to medication. • Heredity; your genes may have something to do with your puffy eyes. • Allergies may increase puffiness, irritation and redness around the eye area. The skin below our eyes is very delicate. Your best bet to get rid of puffiness is to have enough rest every day, remove any eye irritants and treat your eyes like the skin of a baby. Puffy Eyes Remedies to help get rid of your puffiness: First and foremost, make sure that your puffy eyes are not caused by other eye conditions. Cold Splash: Having puffy eyes can be nothing more than a problematic fluid circulation in your face. Splash

cold water directly on your eye area and the rest of your face. The cold temperature of the water is a good way to jumpstart the fluid circulation in your face.

without alcohol. Add facial moisturizer and apply eye cream softly around the sensitive skin around your eyes.

Tea Bag Patch: Prepare two teabags moistened by cold water. Pack on your puffy eyes for a few minutes to reinvigorate your eyes and hold off some of puffiness. The coldness of the teabags will help increase circulation in your face. Incorporate a daily beauty routine: Create a daily routine for your face. There are plenty of inexpensive good products available. Clean your face with a gentle cleanser wash. Dry skin gently, especially the eye area. Use toner for sensitive skin

For instant depuff results, use Renée Taylors faceLOVE™, which is the brand I developed exclusively for women over 50. Use only a very small amount and apply directly on the puffy area under your eyes. See puffiness disappear with minutes. ASK CINDY is written by Cindy Cohen: Make-up artist to the stars. Please e-mail your make-up questions to askcindy@rtfacelove.com. This is a free beauty service provided exclusively for all Lifestyle Over 50 customers. Check out Renée Taylors faceLOVE™ instant depuffer face tightener and Gorgeous Glamour Lipsticks at www.rtfacelove.com or call us Toll Free at 1(855) 502-3002

5 Foods With “Health Halo” Effect

hink twice before grabbing foods labeled sugar-free, fat-free or wholewheat. Recent studies show people tend to let their guard down and eat twice as much or more of these foods because they are marketed as healthy food products. “Consumer food marketing can be extremely persuasive and the right buzzword on a package can lure a shopper into making an unwise purchase,” said Kari Kooi, a registered dietician at The Methodist Hospital in Houston. These foods have a ‘health halo’ effect. Here are Kooi’s top five foods to avoid:

• Vegetable Chips: Vegetable chips are marketed as a healthy substitute for vegetables, but most brands have nutrition labels that read the same as a regu-

lar potato chip. Vegetable chips contain vegetable powders. Once a vegetable is processed into a chip, many of the nutrients are lost and the calories increase because fat is added. Nutrients are lost as a result of processes that expose food to heat, light and oxygen. You’re better off eating vegetables.

• Nutrient-Enhanced Waters: Most nutrient-enhanced waters are nothing more than colored sugar water loaded with empty calories that can contribute to weight gain. The beverages that claim to be a healthy choice because of added vitamins are marketing hype. The added vitamins are useless to the majority of people since our bodies get

adequate amounts from other dietary sources. The body only uses what it needs and excretes the rest. A better option would be taking a daily multivitamin with a glass of water.

• Muffins: Muffins may look like a healthier option than a doughnut, especially when sprinkled with a few oats or studded with blueberries, but don’t fool yourself. Made with refined white flour and plenty of oil and refined sugar, muffins are nothing more than cupcakes without icing. Many coffee shop muffins are mega-sized and can easily top 500 to 600 calories.

• Premade Smoothies: Most premade commercial smoothies are syrupy concoctions loaded with calories and sugar. The sugar rush these beverages provide can leave you with a subsequent energy slump. Keep the calories in check by making fresh smoothies with high-quality, nourishing ingredients like low-fat Greek yogurt, skim milk and fresh or frozen fruits. • Frozen Yogurt: Frozen yogurt is a delicious summertime treat made with low-fat or fat-free dairy ingredients, but it’s definitely not calorie-free. Most include a hefty amount of added sugar. Many of the live and active cultures added to frozen yogurt are not able to survive freezing, so don’t count on any probiotic benefits. Newswise

Lifestyles After 50 • September 2013 • page 19

Seniors Getting Together attention sgters!

Screen respondents carefully. Always meet in public places and have your own transportation. Don’t divulge your home address. Be sure to provide a way for your correspondent to respond to you – phone number, e-mail address or Post Office Box address. Contact the authorities if you feel threatened or harassed by an individual. Be patient and careful – a good relationship and your personal safety are worth the wait!

WoMen seeking Men 4119 seeking christian gentleMan Former airline stewardess and model, 5’4”, 104 lbs., widow, slender, white with Ph.D. in healthcare. Fulbright scholar, eats healthy and exercises. Likes sports and animals. Loves the Lord. Florida. 4279 looking for sWM to make me feel special again. ISO special gentleman, 50s to 70s to share my

life and love forever. I’m looking for a committed relationship. I’m slender, 5’ 6”, don’t smoke, drive or drink. Love flowers on first date, candlelight dinners, dancing, watching TV, thrift stores, cuddling and passionate kisses. My broken heart needs to be mended with true love. Life’s too short for not having someone to share it with. Recent photo please. I’ll be waiting! Fruitland Park. 4281 sWf, ns, sd, ndrg loves outdoors, beaches, great food, dancing, travel. Christian background. Social butterfly, 65 – 75, 55+ park, No. Fort Myers. 68 YO , R, FF companionship. 4288 not lonely, just bored FDW young 84, slender, likes laughter, good sense of humor, going to garage sales, looking for gentleman 80 – 86 who likes same. Prefer Christian man. Wildwood area.

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Deadline for ads is the 15th of the month prior to placement.

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4297 looking for a partner Love to dine out or barbeque. Non-smoker, non-drinker. I am 5’10”, 200 lbs. Love car shows, not crazy about major sports. 4301 let’s find each other SWM seeks SWF who likes movies, walks, flea markets, mini-golf, and who thinks they could put up with me. Let’s get together and get to know each other. to respond to an ad

4273 seeking single White lady SWM, 5’11”, Slender, active, NS, likes music, karaoke, outings, homelife, animals and more. Let’s see how much we have in common. Wildwood. 4280 seeking sWf coMpanion Petite, 75+ in good health, willing and able to create a lasting friendship of contentment through honesty, caring, family, friends, highs and lows of life plus so much more. commonly used abbreviations: F-Female, M-Male, S-Single, D-Divorced, WW-Widow, A-Asian, B-Black, HHispanic, 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, NS-Non Smoker, ND-Non Drinker, SDSocial (Light) Drinker, DR-Drinks, NDrgNo Drugs, LTR-Long Term Relationship, HWP-Height & Weight Proportional, R-Retired, P-Professional, FF-Friendship First, TLC-Tender Loving Care.

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 P.O. Box 638,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.

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4290 i Will Make you sparkle! SWF seeks SW/SH “diamond in the rough” for fun, companionship and enjoying life together. Let’s go panning. We could strike it rich! Marion County. 4294 lady seeks christian gentleMan I am an intelligent, pretty Christian lady interested in a marriage-minded, faithful gentleman, 80 or younger. Please send recent photo. I will answer. Florida.

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MAIL TO: ATTN. / SENIORS GETTING TOGETHER, NEWS CONNECTION, USA, INC. • P.O. BOX 638., SEFFNER, FL 33583

Lifestyles After 50 • September 2013 • page 20

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Lifestyles After 50 • September 2013 • page 21

Enjoy Oodles of Noodles This Month J

apan has no indigenous tradition of breadmaking, but noodles have been popular there since they entered the country from China centuries ago. Japanese ramen noodles are a much-loved American staple for speedy, inexpensive meals. Expand your noodle horizons with this tasty main dish salad using ramen noodles. And the grandkids will have fun helping make a Skillet Noodle Pizza.

Warm Chicken and Cabbage Salad Dressing: 1/3 c vegetable oil 1/3 c red-wine vinegar 1/2 tsp salt 1/2 tsp pepper Salad: 1 large savoy cabbage, shredded 3 c water 3 pkg any flavor ramen noodle soup with seasoning packets 2 Tbsp flour 4 skinned, boned chicken breast halves 1 tsp vegetable oil

packets until dissolved. Pour over cabbage and toss to mix well. 3. Meanwhile, mix flour and remaining seasoning packet in a shallow dish. Add chicken and turn to coat. Cook in heated oil until done. Remove from oil. 4. Cut chicken crosswise in 1/2-inch-wide diagonal slices and serve over cabbage mixture.

Skillet Noodle Pizza

Directions: 1. Mix dressing ingredients in a very large bowl. Add cabbage and toss to coat. 2. Cook noodles as directed on package and stir in 2 (of the 3) seasoning

Medicare Answers D

ear Marci, My doctor gave me an Advanced Beneficiary Notice. What is an Advanced Beneficiary Notice? —Ali

Lifestyles After 50 • September 2013 • page 22

8 c water 4 pkgs (about 3 ounces each) any flavor ramen noodle soup 1 Tbsp olive oil 1 c spaghetti sauce 1 c mozzarella cheese, shredded 17 slices pepperoni, cut in strips 1/2 tsp oregano

Directions: 1. Bring water to boil, add noodles and cook, stirring occasionally, 3 minutes. Drain. 2. Heat oil in large skillet. When hot, add noodles and press evenly to cover bottom of skillet. Cook 2 minutes or until browned underneath. 3. Spread sauce over noodles, sprinkle with cheese, pepperoni and oregano. 4. If skillet handle is plastic or wood, wrap it in a double layer of foil to protect it from scorching. Broil 4 to 5 inches from heat source 2 minutes or until top is bubbly and cheese starts to brown. Let cool about 5 minutes before cutting in wedges to serve. (Recipes from Woman’s Day)

Pumping Iron For Parkinson’s L

ifting weights may do more than build bigger biceps. It could also reduce the motor symptoms and slow the progression of the disease in people with Parkinson’s disease. A recent study from the University of Illinois at Chicago found that participants who lifted weights seemed to slow the progression of their disease. They reduced motor symptoms more than a group of participants who did flexibility, balancing and strengthening exercises. “Slowing this progression or altering the progression is really the single greatest unmet medical need in Parkinson’s,” says Cleveland Clinic’ Jay Alberts, Ph.D. To Dr. Alberts, such research shows promise for patients where other approaches have fallen short. “To date, there haven’t been any positive pharmacological

interventions or surgical interventions that have been effective in slowing disease progression,” he says. From Cleveland Clinic Health Hub.

3:25 PM 2/19/13 1 MSMC_Fullpage_Ad.pdf

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Lifestyles After 50 • September 2013 • page 23

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