Lifestyles After 50 Sarasota Edition, March 2024

IN THE GALLERIES

Tuesday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Through March 30

On the Road Again: The Hubcap as Art Concern for the environment inspired this exhibition of 270 amazing artworks from professional artists from across the globe, including kinetic, illuminated, and interactive pieces. On the Road Again also includes hubcap artworks created by children participating in art programs at Heights Center in Fort Myers FREE

CONCERTS

Thursday, March 14 • 7 p.m.

Evren Ozel, Concert Pianist

An American pianist, Ozel won prizes for Best Mazurka and Best Polonaise at the 2020 U.S. National Chopin Competition, securing the honor of representing the U.S in the International Chopin Competition in Warsaw, Poland in 2021. Tickets $50

Friday, March 19 • 4 & 7 p.m.

Sail On: The Beach Boys Tribute

Sail On brings to life all of the Beach Boys’ classic hits—plus some treasures from the band’s brilliant extended catalog—recreating the soundtrack to an “Endless Summer” that’s live and in rich detail. Tickets $55

ACADEMY OF LIFELONG LEARNING

Friday, March 15 • 10 a.m.

Surviving the Storms

Have you ever wondered how a gopher tortoise can survive an eight-foot storm surge? What happens to freshwater fish when their ponds become filled with saltwater? Why do some homes survive unscathed while others are reduced to rubble? Author and Naturalist Charles Sobczak will examine hurricanes and their impacts. FREE

retirement options, model residences, and amenities. Reservations are required. Call (239) 466-1131 or visit ShellPoint.org/seminars to save your spot! FREE

Wednesday, March 27 • 1 p.m.

The Million Dollar Duck

The Million Dollar Duck is a documentary that focuses on the strange and wonderful world of the Federal Duck Stamp Contest, the only juried art competition run by the U.S. government. This film explores the eccentric nature of the contestants who enter each year for a chance at wildlife art stardom, while also reflecting upon the history and challenges facing the continued existence of this successful conservation program. FREE

Spring has Sprung!

March is a great month in Florida – the weather is gorgeous, the skies are blue, and it’s the beginning of the time we can expect festivals and great barbecue.

We also celebrate women all month long – March is Women’s History Month (or should I say “Herstory” Month?) –but especially on March 8, International Women’s Day. Celebrate the history created by the amazing women in your life with a phone call, a date for coffee or a movie, by taking a walk in one of southwest Florida’s many beautiful parks or beaches, or with a pretty card. Senior women can share their history, passing along the wisdom of the ages to the next generation.

March is also National Craft Month and National Nutrition Month, so you should also plan get togethers that involve making fun things while eating healthy snacks. Remember to spring your clocks ahead an hour on March 10 so you won’t miss the fun!

Also look forward to that silly but amazing holiday of St. Patrick’s Day on March 17 and the chance to drink good beer, sing Irish songs, and wear green to avoid being pinched by leprechauns (or so I’ve been told). Even though my heritage is German and French, my grandmother always loved wearing a bright green bowler hat (complete with sparkly shamrock) and a button that said, “Kiss me, I’m Irish,” and she always added a drop of green food coloring to my grandfather’s evening mug of beer.

The first day of spring is March 22, and finally, Lent, which began in February, comes to a close near the end of March – Easter Sunday is March 31, so dress up in your fanciest spring wardrobe and celebrate the beauty of the season!

Until next time,

P.S. Be sure to read the (much) longer version of the two-page Foreigner article at www.LifestylesAfter50.com!

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FOREIGNER FAREWELL TOUR COMES TO PLANT CITY MARCH 8

By Michele D. Baker

Legendary rock band Foreigner continues their historic “Farewell Tour” to all the places they’ve played over their nearly five-decade history; they will disband at the end of December. On March 8, Foreigner will play the Strawberry Festival in Plant City.

I recently caught up with Foreigner’s keyboardist Michael Bluestein to talk about the Farewell Tour.

Michele Baker: I read in your bio that you grew up on these songs. Now you’re part of Foreigner and playing those same songs on stage. What was that like?

Michael Bluestein: I played classical piano as a kid, and then got into rock and playing pop and stuff and learning the music that was on the radio in high school and college. I studied jazz, a lot of became a jazz piano major, and really dove deeply into that. But all along, there was the music of my youth: classic 70s rock, Foreigner, Journey, The Who, Led Zeppelin.

I didn’t know where it was all going, I just knew that I was just following my muse. One thing led to another, I moved to Los Angeles in 2003 and some of the bigger opportunities started to open up for me. Yeah, it is pretty surreal. I remember the first time playing “Jukebox Hero” on stage. Kelly gets up there and starts singing, and the lights are behind him. I got goose bumps.

Michele Baker: Kelly Hansen mentioned that one reason [to disband] was that as he’s getting older, he is really looking forward to spending time with his family. Michael, you’re only in your mid-50s, a young guy. You’re not old enough to retire! What is your perspective on the farewell tour?

Michael Bluestein: Thanks for calling me a young guy (laughs)! There is some overlap with what Kelly’s saying about being home more with family. I have a 3-month-old daughter, my first child. And so it’s good timing for me to have more time at home. I can be more hands on, as far as that goes, because I never wanted to be that dad that was gone all the time touring so much – it’ll be 16 years next month.

Michele Baker: About 12 years ago, in your early 40s, you beat colon cancer. It’s completely in remissioncongratulations. You’re pretty young to have had cancer. Can you tell me about that?

Michael Bluestein: Thank you so much. Yeah. Luckily, I caught it early enough. But it just goes to show you got to take care of yourself and get checked out, stay on top of that stuff. No matter what your age.

Michele Baker: Yes, especially with that little girl at home waiting for you! What are you most looking forward to about this last little piece of the farewell tour? Just a few more months, and then that’s it, done.

Michael Bluestein: Well, these guys have all become good friends of mine. Everybody in the band. We enjoy each other’s company. There’s a lot of camaraderie, a lot of humor and just fun on the road, and it’s a great, amazing catalog of songs to play. We don’t take that for granted.

Michael Bluestein on keyboards. Image courtesy of Foreigner, photo by Krishta Abruzzini.

It’s incredible to look out every night and see that everyone knows and loves… every single [song] that we play. So I’m just kind of savoring that as a last hurrah and enjoying the time together with the guys.

Michele Baker: I love the fact that you’re pulling in local choirs in each city to join the band on “I Want to Know What Love Is.” Tell me about that.

Michael Bluestein: Yes, that’s the tradition.

Sometimes these choirs will do a performance before the show. [In some cities] there’s a contest.

Michele Baker: What is your ongoing inspiration to write and create? You’ve probably got 25 years ahead of you playing music. How are you going to keep that creativity going?

Michael Bluestein: Great question. You have to stay involved and keep pushing and searching. As you know, I’m a keyboard player, but I’ve got a bunch of guitars, too. I branched out and play a lot of guitar these days. I’m just pushing myself, getting outside of my comfort zone. Writing and playing on different instruments is a good way to jumpstart your creativity. I’ve been playing piano my whole life, and sometimes I want something different.

Michele Baker: Do you think you might try to bring up this new, impressionable young daughter as a musician?

Michael Bluestein: Actually, my fiancée is a singer, and we collaborate. We’ve put out music under the name Tina Blue, cause she’s “Tina,” and I’m “Blue.” We sing and play constantly. Tina grew up singing in the church and harmonizing with her friends. We love writing and doing cool arrangements and tunes. And yeah, we’re hoping that surrounding our daughter with songs and singing all the

time, that she’ll just organically fall into it. But you can’t force it.

Michele Baker: Thanks, Michael. Keep rocking and take care of that beautiful new baby girl.

Michael Bluestein: Appreciate it, and I will. Really lovely talking to you.

Cover image courtesy of Foreigner.

During the March 8 concert, 25 students in the Plant High School A Cappella Group in Tampa will accompany Foreigner during “I Want to Know What Love Is.” Choir director Ms. Shelby Zellen says her choir was selected because the choir has a good reputation and is well-known on social media. “We are so honored and grateful to be performing with Foreigner at the Strawberry Festival,” she said. “In addition to the huge chance to sing with Foreigner, this is the first time many of these kids have ever been to the festival, so it’s a win/win for them.” Foreigner is also donating $500 to the choir as part of its ongoing support of local arts programs in schools. “We’re using those funds to go to New York City,” finishes Zellen.

Foreigner is Bruce Watson, Michael Bluestein, Kelly Hansen, Jeff Pilson, Chris Frazier & Luis Maldonado. Not pictured: Mick Jones. Image courtesy of Foreigner, photo by Krishta Abruzzini.

CREATIVE CORNER CREATIVE CORNER

Are you an aspiring writer, poet or artist? Or maybe you want to try your hand at any of the above? We want to share your passion for the arts!

For submissions:

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

Music Flashback: “Sunshine on My Shoulders”

BY: RANDAL C. HILL

Sunshine on my shoulders makes me happy // Sunshine in my eyes can make me cry

Sunshine on the water looks so lovely // Sunshine almost always makes me high

“I had written the song in a fit of melancholy one dismal late-winter/ early-spring day in Minnesota – the kind of day that makes every Minnesotan think about going down to Mexico,” John Denver once recalled. “It was too cold to go outside and have fun. I was ready for spring…The sun itself can make you feel good.”

The original 1971 version of “Sunshine on My Shoulders” was a long album track—it ran over five minutes—on John’s album “Poems, Prayers and Promises.” Denver’s ever-growing fan base, who had focused on the LP’s breakout hit single “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” seemed to pay little attention to what would become John’s first number one single two years later.

In late 1973, he and RCA Records decided that “Sunshine on My

Shoulders” from his 1971 album would make a great 45 if redone right. With RCA’s approval, John shaved off two minutes of the running time and added strings and woodwinds to make the tune more “commercial.”

The changes paid off, as the release became the first of four number one John Denver singles released during the 1970s.

The song received a boost when it was used in a 1973 made-forTV movie called “Sunshine,” a true story of Lyn Helton, a lady who chose to live her short life to the fullest even though she knew she would die of a rare bone cancer in a matter of months. “It seems that in the last year of her life, she found some happiness in my music,” said Denver. “I was most honored to have my song used as part of that television show.”

If I had a day that I could give you // I’d give to you a day just like today

If I had a song that I could sing you // I’d sing a song to make you feel this way

Movie Preview: “Arthur the King”

BY RANDAL C. HILL

“Arthur the King” has nothing to do with the mythological king of Britain. Rather, it’s about a dog—and friendship and resilience and companionship. The story is based on a 2017 true-life adventure book called “Arthur: The Dog Who Crossed the Jungle to Find a Home,” by Swedish extreme athlete and author Mikael Lindnord.

Lindnord is portrayed in the film by Mark Walberg (“Boogie Nights”). In addition to Walberg—renamed “Michael Light” for the film version—two important costars include Simu Liu (“Barbie”) and Nathalie Emmanuel (“Game of Thrones”).

The tale centers around Light as a seasoned professional athlete about to retire and who is gearing up for one last challenge by striving to win the Adventure Racing World Championship in the Dominican Republic. The soul-crushing, 10-day event involves 435 miles of mountain climbing, biking and kayaking. As his team’s captain, Michael struggles with challenges both physical and personal.

camp. Light offers the emaciated creature a meatball, and a powerful bond forms that will change both of their lives.

The team meets the same stray canine hundreds of miles later. The second time fate brings them together, the dog saves Michael’s life by barking at him just as he’s about to step off the edge of a steep cliff. “Extra meatballs for you, my friend,” he tells him.

Michael’s fellow competitors initially see the mutt as a nuisance but eventually come to love him and even adopt him as the team mascot, since he displays as much heart as any of the human adventurers. Later, as Light and the creature slog their way through a swamp together, he proclaims, “He’s the king…I think we should call him Arthur…Arthur the King.”

Prolific TV director Simon Cellan Jones and scriptwriter Michael Brandt (“3:10 to Yuma”) helped to bring Arthur’s story to fruition.

The Lionsgate PG-13 release of “Arthur the King” opens in theaters on March 22.

One day, as the group is resting, a scraggly, injured mutt limps into their

Managing Your Finances: Five Terms to Improve Financial Literacy

Money can be a stressor for many, but you don’t have to be among them. Creating a game plan and understanding five key terms can help improve your financial health.

CREDIT SCORE

A credit score is a three-digit number that represents your general creditworthiness, calculated based on your personal financial history. Lenders use this number to assess your ability to repay a loan, establish your credit line and to determine your interest rate. A good credit score can help you save money on loans, credit cards and insurance, and can also make it easier to rent an apartment, buy a car or purchase a home.

cards are a powerful option to take advantage of special offers, promotional financing and perks while shopping at your favorite retailers.”

CREDIT CARDS: GENERAL PURPOSE VS. STORE CARDS

Credit cards have become an indispensable part of financial life, with 82% of American adults owning at least one credit card –the average U.S. consumer has three to four credit cards. But credit cards are not all the same. General-purpose credit cards work at most locations in the world where credit is accepted and often come with rewards, promotional financing, or introductory offers.

Store credit cards can be used only at one specific store, or a group of stores, such as a furniture or department store. These cards are often available to those who have a lower credit score, or limited or no credit history. Store cards traditionally have lower credit limits, given you can only use them with that specific retailer.

Consumer financial services company Synchrony (www. synchrony.com) has partnerships with retailers offering store credit cards. “Our cards offer consumers financing with top brands to bring them more choices, flexibility and convenience,” said Max Axler, chief credit officer at Synchrony. “Store credit

INTEREST RATES

A credit card’s interest rate is the amount you will be charged on unpaid credit card balance that is due. The interest rate is calculated as a percentage of the outstanding balance. For example, if you charge $1,000 on a credit card that does not have any outstanding balance and pay it off before the monthly due date, you typically won’t incur any interest charge. You’d simply pay $1,000, and the balance would be satisfied. However, if you do not pay it all off, or pay any amount that was less than the full $1,000, you will be charged interest based on your average daily balance.

ANNUAL PERCENTAGE RATE (APR)

The yearly interest rate charged on your balance due is called the Annual Percentage Rate. You pay this interest rate on any balances not paid in full each month. If you don’t pay your bill in full when it is due every month, the amount you do not pay is subject to interest. It is important to note that your credit card may have more than one APR: One rate for purchases, another for balance transfers and yet another for cash advances.

Article and image courtesy of North American Precis Syndicate (NAPSI)

THE HEALTHY GEEZER

How Serious Is Angina?

Angina pectoris – or simply angina – is the medical term for chest pain or discomfort usually caused by coronary artery disease. Angina is a sign that someone is at increased risk of heart attack, cardiac arrest and sudden cardiac death. If you get angina, you should get medical attention immediately.

Angina (pronounced “an-JI-nuh” or “AN-juhnuh”) hits when the heart doesn’t get enough blood. This usually happens when there is a narrowing or blockage in one or more of the vessels that supply blood to the heart.

Angina can come from exertion. It may make you sweat or lose your breath. The pain can strike your arm or neck, too.

“Stable angina” comes on with exertion and then goes away easily. You can have this kind of angina for a long time.

When the pattern of angina changes a lot, it’s called “unstable angina.” This is a danger sign. Unstable angina may be the first sign of a heart attack.

Then there is “variant angina pectoris” or “Prinzmetal’s angina.” It usually occurs spontaneously and almost always occurs when a person is at rest.  It doesn’t follow physical exertion or emotional stress, either. Variant angina is caused by transient coronary artery spasm.

Physicians have a variety of diagnostic tools. An electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) can tell a doctor if your heart has been damaged by a heart attack. If the EKG is done while you are having chest pain, it can also show if your angina is caused by a problem with your heart.

A stress test is often done while you walk on a treadmill. Your doctor will look at your EKG to see if it’s abnormal when you exercise. Your

doctor may also have X-rays of the heart taken before and after you exercise. These pictures can show if an area of the heart is not getting enough blood during exercise.

A cardiac catheterization involves inserting a long, thin tube into an artery in the arm or leg and then guiding it into the heart. Dye is injected into the arteries around the heart and X-rays are taken. The X-rays will show it if any of the arteries that supply the heart are blocked.

Most people diagnosed with heart disease have to take medicine. Medicines called beta blockers, calcium channel blockers and nitrates can help relieve angina.

There are also surgical options.

Angioplasty uses a tiny balloon to push open blocked arteries around the heart. The balloon is inserted in an artery in the arm or leg. A stent (a small tube) might be put into the artery where the blockage was to hold the artery open.

In bypass surgery, the surgeon uses a healthy blood vessel taken from your leg, arm, chest or abdomen and connects it to the other arteries in your heart so that blood is bypassed around the diseased or blocked area. This increases the blood flow to the heart.

All Rights Reserved © 2024 by Fred Cicetti

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

The Sarasota Players presents four amazing concerts in March including a new tribute festival

Join audience-favorite Jimmy Mazz on March 4, as he performs Legends and Laughter and on March 5, as he presents Songs Across America.

Don’t miss our two-day music festival event we’re calling BOOM FEST! If you purchase both shows you get 20% off the second concert when you call the box office.

March 22, see THE BOXERS: A TRIBUTE TO SIMON AND GARFUNKEL

Todd and Greg Pitts have been singing and performing together for over 40 years. Growing up in the wake of a remarkable period in music history. The vocal blend of siblings shines through as they retrace the greatest hits of this duo that made us appreciate “The Sound of Silence.”

March 23, see FIRE AND RAIN BAND –THE JAMES TAYLOR EXPERIENCE

with special guest The Pretender a tribute to Jackson Browne. Members have been touring the country in various groups for the better part of the last three decades and have now come together to pay tribute to this great music and the greatest singer/songwriter/ guitarist the world has ever produced.

Learn more by visiting our website at theplayers.org or by calling our box office at 941.365.2494.

c l i n i c s i n t h e a r e a r e a d y to take care

of you.

Strawberry Shortcake

by Melissa Griffiths, Bless This Mess

On your way home from Strawberry Fest, pick up a few pints of the gorgeous fruit – it’s in season now and at its peak. This easy recipe makes a cake-like base for the red beauties, all topped with freshly whipped cream.

For the cake:

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 1/2 cup melted butter

• 1 large egg

• 1 teaspoon vanilla

• 1-1/2 cups all purpose flour

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup milk

For the dessert:

• 1-2 lbs. fresh strawberries, sliced and sweetened to your liking (1-2 teaspoons of sweetener sprinkled over will help the cut berries release their juices)

• 2-3 cups freshly whipped cream

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 F. Grease a 9” square baking dish or line with parchment paper.

2. In a medium bowl, combine the sugar and melted butter. Add the egg and vanilla and stir again.

3. Add the dry ingredients, beating with an electric mixer to combine.

4. Add the milk and beat until the mixture is smooth with no lumps. Pour into prepared pan.

5. Bake 20-25 minutes, until the cake is lightly golden and springs back when lightly touched.

6. Remove the cake and cool for 30 minutes.

7. Cut the cake into 9 squares (3” x 3”).

8. To serve, cut a cake square in half lengthwise. Fill the cake “sandwich” with strawberries and cream – top with even more

strawberries and cream! Serve immediately.

From-Scratch Whipped Cream:

Add 1-2 cups heavy whipping cream, 1/4 cup powdered sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla to a bowl. Whip with an electric mixer until soft peaks form, about 3-5 minutes.

Jorge L Hernandez, MD Waguih El Masry, MD Bradenton Internal Medicine

Sean Nonnemaker, DO Waguih El Masry, MD Bradenton Internal Medicine

Philippe Noel, MD Noel & Berenstein North Port Internal Medicine

Arlenne Ponce Mendez, MD veriMED Health Group Bradenton Internal Medicine

Lisa Shannon, DO Waguih El Masry, MD Ellenton Family Medicine

Ehab Michael, MD Ehab Michael, MD Internal Medicine

Nicholas J. Angelastro, DO Heal Strong Primary Care South Venice Family Medicine

Loren S. Carlson, DO University Family Healthcare Lakewood Ranch Family Medicine

Anna Berenstein, MD Noel & Berenstein North Port Internal Medicine

Waguih El Masry, MD Waguih El Masry, MD Ellenton & Bradenton Internal Medicine

Alexander Fine, MD veriMED Health Group Sarasota Internal Medicine

Brian D. Carlson, DO University Family Healthcare Lakewood Ranch Family Medicine

Armchair Adventures: I

Give You No Blarney

By Evelyn Kelly, PhD

Our Irish travels have led us to Cork, the largest and southernmost county in Ireland. To the Northwest is Blarney Castle, home to the Blarney Stone and our exciting adventure. We had no idea what it meant to “kiss the Blarney Stone” or even what it was.

Blarney Castle is an old run-down grey box with a tower beside it. Vines cover the walls and evergreen trees surround it. A gentleman named Cormac MacCarthy built the castle in the 15th century on the advice of a witch whose life he saved.

At the entrance to the tower is the first of 127 steps in a narrow passageway. As we make our way up the claustrophobic tower stairs, behind us we hear screams and cries. A woman is having a panic attack from the close walls and the staff must guide her back down for medical attention. We continue up slowly, breathing in and out to keep calm.

wheeled cart that will push her over to the stone. Her shoulders and head are over an 85-foot drop. The attendants tell us not to worry, they will hold her feet and there are metal bars in the wall to hold onto. We’ve come this far, so she gives the stone a quick peck and then we head back down the same narrow stairway.

Kissing the stone is supposed to endow a person with the gift of eloquence and gab. “Blarney” – it’s both a noun and a verb – is “talk that aims to charm, pleasantly flatter or persuade.” It is reported that the word came into use when a member of the McCarthy family visited Queen Elizabeth I to attempt to forestall the Queen removing the McCarthys title to their land. McCarthy chattered constantly until the Queen grew exasperated and uttered that she was “hearing Blarney.”

Then comes a narrow ledge along the wall. We hold tightly onto the rail, as there is nothing on the side to keep you from falling into the deep. There is a short wait, and we watch other courageous people emerge from kissing this block of limestone built onto the battlements in 1446. We learn that battlements are the rectangular gaps in the walls to allow soldiers to launch their arrows.

Next is Natalie’s turn. She lies on her back on a small,

Why kissing this stone should make a person eloquent is ultimately unclear, though there are several legends including one about the goddess Cliodhna, who told Cormac MacCarthy, the builder of Blarney Castle, to “kiss the first stone he saw” one morning on his way to court, and he would surely prevail. He did, and he was successful, thus creating the legend. (But there is also speculation that the Blarney Stone was once part of the deflector stone at the bottom of a toilet, so really, who’s to say?)

Sex After 60? Yes, Please!

By Michele D. Baker

Based on “Guide to Sex After 60,” medically reviewed by

Carol DerSarkissian,

MD on February 22, 2023 and written by Janie

Sex after 60? That’s a big yes. Many mature couples have better love lives than they did in their more youthful days. There are lots of reasons for this. They have deeper intimacy with partners, fewer distractions, no pregnancy concerns, and more time to get busy. Plus, they have much more “know-how” and “done-that” than those young things on TV.

HORMONAL CHANGES

Around midlife, new issues can temporarily dampen your love life, though. Sex hormones take a big dip. For women, menopause brings a plunge in estrogen and androgens, which may cause vaginal dryness. Men see a nosedive of testosterone and estrogen about the same time, making ED a possibility. Changes in the brain and your blood flow switch things up, too.

MEDICAL CHALLENGES

Diabetes can cause ED in men, especially those with type 2. Poor blood sugar control can, over time, damage nerves and blood vessels that supply sex organs. Women with diabetes can also have less feeling in their genitals and more yeast infections. Heart disease makes your arteries narrow and harden, so your blood doesn’t flow as easily. You might find it more difficult to get aroused or have orgasms, but once it’s treated, your doctor will likely give you the green light.

McQueen

Talk with each other about ways you can stay close. When you can, put aside caregiving roles and focus on being a partner. And when you talk about your feelings and needs, do it from an “I” standpoint: “I’d enjoy it if we...” This lets you express yourself without hurting feelings.

GET CREATIVE

Common sense and a creative spirit can spark new ways to enjoy sex. For example, if a flat surface doesn’t work for your knees, a new position or special furniture can offer another angle. If you have problems getting aroused, a vibrator can help get blood moving. It’s natural to worry about “getting back into the swing of things” if you’ve been inactive for a while. But just having sex can help you relax and let desire take the lead.

DIFFERENT STROKES

You can be intimate and loving – and sexy, too – without intercourse. Lovemaking includes caressing, hugging, kissing, and manual or oral stimulation. Any loving or intimate expression can make your intimate life full. If you don’t have a partner, self-stimulation is a healthy, satisfying route to reap the many benefits of sex.

WHY YOU SHOULD BOTHER

Other medical conditions that can affect your sex life include weight gain, arthritis, chronic pain, bladder control problems, dementia, high blood pressure or cholesterol, side effects from meds, depression, and stroke. Also, surgery can affect your self-image and how you feel.

Why bother, you ask? The benefits of sex are many. It boosts your immune system, burns calories, lowers blood pressure, helps you relax, eases pain, keeps your mind sharp, and may lessen the risk of heart attack and prostate cancer. It keeps you and your partner close, and it just may help you live longer. Oh, and it makes you happy!

Matinees with The Florida Orchestra

Rick Steves shares images and stories live onstage, paired with selections by composers such as Beethoven, Elgar, Verdi and more. Michael Francis conducts.

Sat, Mar 16, 2 pm, Mahaffey Theater

HOUGH FAMILY FOUNDATION MASTERWORKS Dvorak’s

New World Symphony

Featuring Mozart’s Sinfonia Concertante

Sat, Apr 14, 2 pm, Mahaffey Theater

MORNING MATINEE CONCERT

Waltz into Spring

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

Wed, May 1, 11 am, Ruth Eckerd Hall

Thur, May 2, 11 am, Mahaffey Theater

Support your Florida Orchestra today FloridaOrchestra.org/donate

Chelsea Gallo, conductor

KLINE TOURS

DISNEY ON ICE

Disney on Ice presents Frozen & Encanto at 7:00 p.m. Saturday March 23 at Amalie Arena in Tampa $109 per person. Excellent lower level seating in Section 116.

BILOXI, MISSISSIPPI

4 days/3 nights March 25-28 $469 per person (double occupancy) includes 3 nights at IP Resort Casino and Spa in Biloxi, $50 Slot Play, ($25 from IP Casino, $25 from Hard Rock Casino) $80 in food vouchers.

MEMPHIS ADVENTURE

Monday-Thursday April 15-18 $2199 per person (double occupancy) includes round trip air to Memphis three nights lodging at Guest House at Graceland, Elvis Experience Tour to include Graceland, Sun Studio, Rock n Soul Museum, Duck March at the Peabody Hotel, Beale Street, National Civil Rights Museum, Stax Museum of American Soul Music, Sightseeing

FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL PLANT CITY, FL

Thursday March 7 $59 per person (includes admission)

CAPE COD 2024

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

BLACK HILLS, BADLANDS & MOUNT RUSHMORE

Sunday-Thursday July 7-11 $2699 per person (double occupancy includes round trip air to Rapid City from Tampa. round trip airport transportation. Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Monument, Custer State Park ‘the Badlands, Wall drug Store, tour of Deadwood, tour of Boot Hill, (Mount Moriah Cemetery), free time in Rapid City and Dogwood, six meals.

NEW ENGLAND FALL FOLIAGE TOUR

Monday-Friday September 30-October4 $1649 per person (double occupancy),roundtrip air, 4 nights lodging in Tilton, NH, 4 breakfasts, 3 dinners including a Lobster Bake with entertainment, one boxed lunch  Ride on the Cog Railroad to the Summit of Mt Washington and back Cruise on the MS Mt Washington from Weirs to Wolfeboro, Visit to Kennebunkport, Stonewall Kitchen and Nubble Lighthouse, Wine Tasting at Seven Birches Winery.

BRANSON SHOW TOUR

5 days/4nights Sunday October 13- Thursday October 17 $1879 per person (double occupancy, Round trip air from Sarasota or Tampa to St. Louis, motorcoach from St. Louis to Branson, , four nights lodging at Hotel Grand Victorian in Branson, nine meals, seven shows including Yakov Smirnoff. Neil Diamond Tribute, Clay Cooper, Pierce Arrow presents Decades, The Haygoods, Six, Showboat Branson Belle, Dogwood Canyon, Branson

KLINE TOURS

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

Fla. Seller of Travel Ref. No ST43118

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

BOOK REVIEW

by Kathy A. Megyeri

“The Secret History of the Handbag,”

by

Meredith Etherington-Smith

“More than any other accessory or item of clothing, the handbag reveals the secret story of its owner and her life.”

Meredith Etherington-Smith, author

Last year, Taylor Swift was gifted a Judith Leiber shimmering crystal clutch bag in the shape of a microphone with a chain strap (cost: $4,994). Shaquille O’Neal gave Swift a dazzling football bag at the Super Bowl 2024 with the number 87 emblazoned on it. And at the same event, Swift presented Travis Kelce and his teammate Patrick Mahomes with luxury Louis Vuitton bags in the colors of the Kansas City Chiefs. All this focus on handbags brought many fans to the glorious coffee table book “The Secret History of the Handbag” by Meredith Etherington-Smith.

Etherington-Smith attended the Royal College of Art and was a British fashion and art journalist, so in this book, she pays tribute to this most fascinating, essential and collectible accessory, our handbags. The book discusses secret pockets in preRenaissance period travel bags that carried papers, jewelry and money up to the explosive creativity in the 20th and 21st centuries. In the early 1920’s, every major couture house made handbags to match its outfits, and this book showcases these creations with vintage fashion photographs.

The author believes that examining the history of the handbag is also exploring the social history of the times. From the reticules of the 18th century, the mesh bags and chatelaines of the 19th century, the Japanese “inro” of the 20th century, she highlights every major couturier from Chanel to Lanvin, Paul Poieret, Vionnet and Schiaparelli. There are handbags inspired by real women like Grace Kelly (the Kelly bag) and by events in the world such

as Schiaparelli’s gas mask bag.

Now, a handbag is the foundation of fashion fortunes and certain models, like the Hermes Birkin, Gucci and Louis Vuitton bags, are famous around the world. Even Judith Leiber’s glittery creations include the most expensive bag ever made, the one-of-a-kind “Precious Rose” bag shaped like a rose and consisting of 1,016 diamonds, 1,169 sapphires and 800 tourmalines. Truly a must-read for the woman who loves fashion!

Sudoku #304

Sudoku #314

Solution #303

Last Month’s Answers Sudoku

SUDOKU

SUDOKU

SUDOKU

Sudoku requires no arithmetic skills.

Sudoku requires no arithmetic skills.

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

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

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

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

Each row of 9 numbers must include all digits 1 through 9 in any order.

Each row of 9 numbers must include all digits 1 through 9 in any order.

Each row of 9 numbers must include all digits1through9inanyorder.

Each column of 9 numbers must include all digits 1 through 9 in any order.

Each column of 9 numbers must include all digits 1 through 9 in any order.

Each column of 9 numbers must include all digits 1 through 9 in any order.

Win Great Prizes!

Each 3 by 3 subsection of the 9 by 9 square must include all digits 1 through 9.

Each 3 by 3 subsection of the 9 by 9 square must include all digits 1 through 9.

New winner selected each month

APRIL Sudoku

Sudoku requires no arithmetic skills The object of the game is to fill all the blank squares with the correct numbers. Each row and each column of 9 numbers must include all digits 1 through 9 in any order.

Each 3 by 3 subsection of the 9 by 9 square must include all digits 1 through 9 as well. Good luck! The first correct answers selected from the drawing on the 20th will win.

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

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

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

Bluejay

Canary Crow Cuckoo

Eagle Egret

APRIL W ord Sea rch

March Word Search

WORD SEARCH

WORD SEARCH

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

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

Today's Category: Things Often Found in a Refrigerator

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

The first correct answers selected from the drawing on the 20th of the month will win.

WIN!

837249615

Renegade Robber Rogue Ruffian Scoundrel Shyster Thief Thug Traitor Villain

Bandit Cheat Convict Criminal Felon Fiend Liar Ogre Rake Rascal Renegade Robber Rogue Ruffian Scoundrel Shyster Thief Thug Traitor Villain

542398761

Solution #356 5 9 2 5 8 6 7 4 3 1 8 6 3 4 2 1 5 7 9 1 7 4 9 3 5 2 6 8 3 8 6 2 5 9 1 4 7 5 4 2 1 7 8 3 9 6 7 1 9 6 4 3 8 5 2 4 3 1 7 8 6 9 2 5 2 9 7 5 1 4 6 8 3 6 5 8 3 9 2 7 1 4 Play every month to be entered in a drawing to win a prize! Deadline for entries: March 20th Name Address City State Zip Email Phone Mail to: Lifestyles After 50, P.O. Box 638, Seffner, FL, 33583 Angela McElroy, Valrico was our February winner! February's answers: Ash Wednesday, pancakes, waffles & beignets, Charles Duke of Orleans Please enjoy playing our Crossword, Sudoku and Word Search Puzzles BECAUSE The more puzzles you play & submit, the better chance you have to win!

New IRS Brackets Could Lower Taxes for Some

From the AARP Bulletin, February 2024

Inflation has hurt lots of people on fixed incomes, but it has also created a potential piece of good news: the federal tax brackets have been adjusted to reflect inflation. That could mean you may fall into a lower bracket, paying a smaller percentage of taxes on income.

Another change: the standard deduction is $14,600 for single filers for the 2024 tax year, up from $13,850 for 2023. The standard deduction for couples filing jointly is $29,200 in 2024, up from $27,700. And more good news for older taxpayers: joint filers can increase the standard deduction by $1,550 each, for a total of $3,100 if both filers are over age 65. In total, a married couple, both over age 65 would have a standard deduction of $32,300.

Here’s a look at the new brackets:

Free Tax Preparation for Seniors

If you’ve earned $79,000 or less, VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) will do your taxes for free (this service is income based, so it can be used by anyone, not just seniors). Book an appointment in DeSoto, Hillsborough, Manatee, Pinellas, or Sarasota counties by calling 833-897-8482.

AARP Tax-Aide District 45 serves The Villages, Fruitland Park, Lady Lake, Wildwood & Sumter County. They only accept online appointments, so visit www.villagestaxaide.com to get started with this free service. For other AARP Tax-Aide service locations, visit https://taxaide.aarpfoundation.org/ and click “locate sites near me.”

The IRS can also help you locate free tax prep assistance. Visit https:// irs.treasury.gov/freetaxprep/ and enter your zip code for location specific assistance.

Lemon Garlic Chicken by The Mediterranean Dish

All the beautiful citrus is out in Florida

right now, so it’s the perfect time to make something containing lemons. This beautiful dish takes only 45 minutes –and that includes the marinating!

For the marinade:

• 2 lemons

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 5 garlic cloves or 4 teaspoons minced garlic

• 1-1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1/4 cup chopped parsley + more for garnish

For the chicken:

• 2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 4 large chicken breasts)

• salt and pepper

• olive oil

Method:

1. Zest and juice one of the lemons into a large bowl (save the other for later). Add olive oil, seasonings and parsley. Whisk and set the marinade aside.

2. Slice the chicken horizontally into cutlets using a very sharp knife: each breast should make 2 thin cutlets. If needed, cover with plastic wrap and pound so they are uniform thickness.

3. Pat each cutlet dry with a paper towel. Season with salt, pepper, and then add to the marinade. Cover the bowl and marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours).

4. Add 2 Tablespoons of olive oil to a large skillet. Once the oil begins to shimmer, arrange the chicken in the skillet. Sear for 4 minutes on each side until golden brown (juices should be clear).

5. When the internal temp of the chicken reaches 160 F, remove from the heat and rest 5 minutes under a foil tent. Slice the remaining lemon.

6. Garnish the chicken with chopped parsley and lemon slices. Serve with a green salad or lemon rice.

WOMEN SEEKING MEN

WOMEN SEEKING MEN

5618 – VENICE SENIORS SINGING

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

5599 – SEARCHING FOR SOMEONE. I am SWF, 80 yy, NS, ND, Blond/Gray hair, 5’2”. ISO SWM for eating out, listening to country, western, gospel music, travel, sports. THIS COULD BE YOU!

5604 – LOOKING FOR SOULMATE.

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

I’m 80 y young, 5’5”, 120#, blonde. Like dancing, Elks, beach, state parks, reading, short trips, museums, picniks in the park, movies. SWCF. Write OK. Largo & Seminole

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

5611 – SUPER SENIOR, active, C, W, WW, HWP, NS, SD, NDrg, HWP, well-adjusted, energetic, uncomplicated. Enjoys music, nature, short trips, animals, dancing, camping, fishing. ISO straight-forward, honest communicator. FF

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

5610 – RETIRED ASIAN LOOKING COMPANION ISO life partner between 70-85 yrs old. NS, ND, honest, kind gentleman. I am 5 foot tall, avg build. Loves to travel & am physically fit. Send photo & phone please.

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

Seniors getting Together Seniors

5425 - SINCERE CHRISTIAN WOMAN

5613 – NEW TO THE AREA. Fun female, petite, S, C, 70’s, NS, FF, enjoy Happy Hours, short trips, dancing, theatre. Looking for companion, Send letter with phone # and photo.

5618 – VENICE SENIORS SINGING

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

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

5619 – INDIAN SINGLE ISLAND

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

WOMAN seeking single W, M, Asian or Hispanic. ND, NS, Long partner 60 plus. Tall & fit. Tampa only. No FB or email. Phone only. Please serious partner.

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

5617 – SWF LOOKING FOR COMPANIONSHIP. I’m 70, 5’3”, 120 lbs, brown/auburn hair, blue eyes. Retired paralegal. Enjoy dancing, karaoke, restaurants, cooking, beach, flea markets, theatre and traveling.

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

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

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

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

5621 – CWF, 80 yrs, NS, SD, HWP, R, P, FF, TLC. Loves theater, dancing, swimming, walks, especially ocean walks, people, my toy poodle, and teaching Tai Chi. Looking forward to spending time with you. N Ft Myers.

MEN SEEKING WOMEN

MEN SEEKING WOMEN

5606 – TRIED THIS BEFORE. It worked great. 9 years but she passed on. 78 yr old guy wants younger gal with spunkiness left. NS, ND, loves all neighbors even enemies. Adventurist.

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

5607 – SEXY SIX FOOT TWO EYES OF BLUE. 200 pound athletic boy who looks a lot younger than 62 wants a fun, youthful companion to explore the world with. Come with me! PG, PC, NFM, NP.

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

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

5609 – LOOKING FOR A FEMALE COMPANION in the Tampa Bay area. I am 86 YY, WM, WW, C, NS, 5’9”, 165 lbs., SOH. Excellent health, very active. Southern country gentleman. This is my first experience with this. Homeowner with pool, semi-retired, own truck dealership. Send your number. Let’s talk. Marvin

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

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

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

5608 – TENNESSEE SOUTHERN GENTLEMAN. Venice. Accomplished, 73, W, D, R, P, NS, NDrg, SD, HWP, well dressed, spoken, C, gospel, 70’s, music dancer. ISO active lifestyle, mature passionate F, desiring princess treatment. Send a letter and photo. Guaranteed return response. No disappointments.

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

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

5612 – YOU + ME = TOGETHER. SWM, SD, NS, SOH, ND, 5’6”, 180 lbs. CONDO – New carpeting + king bedroom. Likes happy hour, restaurants, the Elks, TV, movies, shopping, kissing, holding hands. ISO SWF or Asian. Fun. SOH, easy going, smiles, enjoys life. Pinellas Park. Please be local.

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

5614 – FIRST AD – RETIRED, SECURE. SWM, spry, easy going, NS, ND, No pets. Seeking small to medium loving, romantic female companion to share my home, RENT FREE. Quiet, peaceful area. Please send phone, photo, description.

5416 - LOOKING FOR COMPANION. SWM

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

5615 – MAN LOOKING for man. Single, widower in Ft. Myers. Age 70’s with open mind. Write to me and say with senior’s lifestyles ad.

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

5616 – LOOKING – LOOKING – LOOKING. ISO SWF or Asian, SOH, NS, ND, SD, fun and easy going, 55-75yy, 4’10”-5’3”, plump ok, for SWM, 70’s, 180lb, NS, ND, SD, SOH, condo w/ new carpeting & king bedroom. Likes most everything including spending money on you. St. Petersburg – Tyrone Mall area. Please be local or willing to relocate.

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

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

8

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

To ReSPonD To An AD: Write a letter to the person you want to contact. Place that letter in a stamped envelope and write the ad # on the bottom left hand side of the envelope. Place your stamped, numbered envelope(s), along with $2 for each letter enclosed, into another envelope and address it to:

Lifestyles After 50 Seniors Getting Together P.O. Box 638, Seffner, FL 33583

CommonLY USeD ABBReViATionS:

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

Social Security, Medicare & Retirement Age

Information from Social Security Administration

Question: How much is the Medicare Premium for 2024? Also, if I enroll in January 2024 when will my coverage begin? (E. Thomas, Coconut Creek)

Answer: The Medicare Premium coverage for 2024 is $174.70. If you enrolled in January 2024, your coverage will be effective as of February 1, 2024.

Question: I was born on June 1, 1959. At what age is my full retirement age? (O. Diaz, Kendall)

Answer: Full retirement age is 66 years and 10 months – O. Diaz can retire with full benefits as of April 1, 2026.

Question: What are the 2024 Social Security retirement limits for people under the full retirement age? I’d like to retire at 62. (P. Getz, Key Largo)

Answer: If you are under full retirement age in 2024, the retirement limit is $22,320. For the year the year the individual turns full retirement age, it is $59,520. When you’re ready to apply for retirement benefits, use our online retirement application, the quickest, easiest, and most convenient way to apply.

Question: What are the Tax Rates for 2024 for Employees and Self Employed? (D. Puerto, South Miami)

Answer: The Tax Rates will be the same as 2023. For Employees: 7.65% and for Self-Employed: 15.3%.

Question: What is the maximum for the Supplemental Security Income for an individual and couple for 2024? (S. Delgado, Miramar)

Answer: The maximum payments for 2023 for Supplemental beneficiaries are: $943 for an individual and $1,415 for a couple.

Question: Have the Resource Limits for the SSI program increased for 2024? (J. Vargues, Pembroke Pines)

Answer: No. For individuals the resource limit is still $2,000 and for couples it is still $3,000.

AROUND TOWN

MARCH 8: MOTOWN & R&B ON MANASOTA KEY

The Waverly Restaurant & Bar, 2095 N. Beach Rd., Englewood

MARCH 9: LAKEWOOD RANCH CELTIC FESTIVAL

Greenbrook Adventure Park, 13010 Adventure Pl., Bradenton

MARCH 9: WELCOME HOME VETERANS DAY

VFW, 4860 Trott Cir., North Port

MARCH 13: RICK SPRINGFIELD

Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

MARCH 14: MAYDAY PARADE

SCF Neel Performing Arts Center, 5840 26th St. W, Bradenton

MARCH 15: TIM MCGRAW

Amalie Arena, 401 Channelside Dr., Tampa

MARCH: 15 ARABIAN NIGHTS

Venice Performing Arts Center, 1 Indian Ave. Bldg. 5, Venice

MARCH 15-17: COQUINA BEACH SEAFOOD & MUSIC FESTIVAL

Coquina Beach, 2650 Gulf Dr. S, Bradenton Beach

MARCH 16-17: PICKLEBALL FEST

Pickleball Club, 1300 Sarasota Center Blvd., Sarasota

MARCH 21: JAZZ DOCUMENTARY – THE GIRLS IN THE BAND

Burns Court Cinema, 506 Burns Ct., Sarasota

MARCH 23: VENICE BLUES FESTIVAL

Venice Airport Festival Grounds, 610 Airport Ave. E, Venice

MARCH 24: BLUES BRUNCH

Mattison’s Riverwalk Grille, 101 Riverfront Blvd. Suite 120, Bradenton

MARCH 24: 34TH ANNUAL CAR SHOW

Centennial Park, 200 W. Venice Ave., Venice

MARCH 24: INSTANT CONCERT

North Port Performing Arts Center, 6400 W. Price Blvd., North Port

MARCH 25: FINE ARTS FESTIVAL

Dearborn Street Plaza, 300 W. Dearborn St., Englewood

MARCH 25: VENICE CONCERT BAND – CURTAINS UP!

Venice Performing Arts Center, 1 Indian Ave., Bldg. 5, Venice

MARCH 29: ALMOST ABBA

SCF Neel Performing Arts Center, 5840 26th St. W, Bradenton

MARCH 30: BREWS & BOOTS COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL

Pioneer Park, 300 W. Dearborn St., Englewood

The Surprising Benefits of Gardening

There’s just something about playing in the dirt and getting your hands dirty that provides a sense of serenity. However, gardening provides more than just a playground and beautiful scenery. It delivers several health benefits to older adults.

Decreases Your Dementia Risk

A 16-year study of individuals over 60 found that activities like gardening may decrease dementia risk by 36 percent. Gardening engages critical functions like dexterity and sensory awareness, aiding in the maintenance of motor skills and strength, ultimately stimulating the brain.

Increases Mobility

While gardening may not seem like a strenuous or vigorous workout, spend a day in the garden, and your body will feel it. You’ll be surprised just how many muscles you work in the garden. All that pulling, twisting, and bending. Gardening works all the major muscle groups: legs, buttocks, arms, shoulders, neck, back, and abdomen.

Improves Your Immune System

It sounds crazy, but it’s true. Dirt helps to regulate your immune system. Plant soil contains the bacteria Mycobacterium vaccae, which has been found to alleviate symptoms of psoriasis, allergies, and asthma – all of which may stem from an overactive immune system.

Relieves Stress and Anxiety

A study found that gardening lowers cortisol levels in the brain. Cortisol, known as the stress hormone, is responsible for influencing your mood. High levels of cortisol result in high blood pressure and elevated glucose levels. When levels decrease, you usually experience better moods. It doesn’t take much gardening to achieve this positive change. Just 30 minutes can do wonders for your mood.

Before participating in any new strenuous activity, consult your healthcare provider. Are you looking for a quality primary care provider?

Contact VIPcare at 941-421-5603 and start receiving the VIP treatment today!